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A young woman from Kerala who cut off a sanyasi's penis after he allegedly raped her for many years, has now said she wasn't sexually assaulted by the 54-year old.

By India Today Web Desk: A 23-year-old law student from Kerala who last month cut off a sanyasi's penis after he allegedly raped her for several years, has now said she wasn't raped, NDTV reported today.

The woman made the revelation in a letter to the 54-year-old godman's lawyer, the news channel's report said.

The swami, who was charged for raping the woman over a seven-year period under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act, told police he cut off his penis himself, since it wasn't "useful" to him.

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Police initially said the alleged victim's mother invited the swami into their home to conduct poojas and prayers.

"The swami (then) convinced (the) victim's mother that he could cure her paralysed husband and (used this as a reason to) frequent her home. And he started sexually exploiting the (then) minor daughter," a police official said.

When Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was asked what action his government would take action against the swami, he in turn asked - laughing - what more action was needed.

ALSO READ | Kerala swami claims he, not girl, chopped off his sexual organ as it was not useful

ALSO READ | Kerala: Girl chops off rapist sanyasi's genitals

ALSO WATCH | Kerala law student chops off genitals of swami

--- ENDS ---
- The former national security adviser Sambo Dasuki will appear before Justice Okon Abang on Tuesday, June 20

- Dasuki will appear as a defence witness in the trial against past national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Olisa Metuh

- Dasuki is expected to be produced in court by the Department of State Service (DSS)

The former national security adviser Sambo Dasuki is expected to appear before Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court in Abuja as witness in the trial of the past national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Olisa Metuh.

Legit.ng gathered that Dasuki who has been in custody of the Department of State Service since December 2015 will be produce by the secret police in court on Tuesday, June 20.

READ ALSO: See the face of 27-year-old well-trained killer arrested in Lagos (Photos, video)

Sources close to Metuh said his lawyer has written to the DSS to produce the former NSA to testify in court.

Dasuki will appear as a defence witness in the trial against past national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Olisa Metuh

This new development in the ongoing trial of Metuh comes after Justice Abang had refused an application to sign a subpoena ordering the DSS to produce Dasuki as witness in the trial.

READ ALSO: Evans, the notorious kidnapper takes policemen to the isolated den he keeps his victims

Also, Metuh's lawyer, Emeka Etiaba had in an earlier letter written in February called for Dauski to appear as defence witness in the matter.

However, at the court on Monday, June 19, after ruling for the continuation of the matter on Tuesday, June 20, Legit.ng gathered that the lawyer wrote a fresh letter to the DSS.

The source said: "There are confirmation that Dasuki will be in court tomorrow."

The source also said Dasuki's testimony will establish Metuh's innocence before the court.

"Dasukis testimony is key as the case against Metuh in that he reasonably ought to have known that the N400 million paid into the account of his company for a special assignment approved by former President Goodluck Jonathan is part of the proceeds of alleged unlawful activity of Col. Sambo Dasuki," the source said.

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Legit.ng had reported that the former PDP spokesperson was alleged to have received N100 million from the office of the national security adviser through the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The money, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission( (EFCC) said were used in the running of the 2015 PDP campaign activities for the Goodluck Jonathan's presidential election.

See letter from Metuh's lawyer to DSS below:

DSS is expected to produce Dasuki in court on Tuesday, June 20.

You can watch this Legit.ng video of Nigerians reacting to the economic situation in the country:

Source: Legit.ng
- Abdulrahman Baffa Yola joins Osinbajos team as special assistant on inter-governmental affairs to the acting president

- Colleagues of Abdulrahman Baffa Yola describe him as a patriot and a youth who is active in National politics

- Yemi Osinbajo will meet with traditional rulers from the northern states on Monday evening, June 19

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has appointed Abdulrahman Baffa Yola as his special assistant on inter-governmental affairs.

Osinbajos news aide is described as a patriot and a youth who is active in National politics by some of his colleagues who celebrated his appointment.

READ ALSO: I was trained to kill by cultists - 27-year-old man confesses to Lagos police

Yusuf Galadima Aliyu, a friend of the new aide in a Facebook post, described the appointment of Abdulrahman Baffa Yola as a clearance to Nigerian youths in particular to participate in building Nigeria.

Abdulrahman Baffa Yolas appointment has been celebrated by well-wishers

He said: That, we are(all) hopeful of leading Nigeria one day one day. Youth are beginning to see some changes and development in themselves, just within a week. It is truth and a real plus, that youths, have given chances to start in the presidency. This to me, is also a good opportunity for the youths to show case their hidden talent in building and strengthening the relationship between the old and the young Nigerian, by ensuring good things done."

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Abdulrahman Baffa Yola has been described as a patriot

Meanwhile, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, is scheduled to meet with traditional rulers from the northern region of the country as part of his effort to douse the tension generated by a quit notice issued to Igbos living in the north.

The presidency said on Sunday, June 18, that the meeting between the acting president and the northern traditional leaders would take place on Monday evening, June 19.

Legit.ng recalls that the acting president has been holding series of meetings with leaders of thought from both the northern and eastern parts of the country following the ultimatum.

The acting president has also warned that those agitating for secession and the northern groups that issued ultimatum to Igbos risked jail terms as they violated Nigerias laws.

In the video below, the Acting President Yemi Osinbajo at the #Biafra50 event in Abuja said Nigerians are greater together than apart.

Source: Legit.ng
For many Nigerians, the dream is to travel outside the country and then miss the country from abroad. Emigrating is almost like the goal for many, especially to European countries.

There are of course many reasons why this is the case, below are some of the most important:

1. Income

The hope of increased income especially for skilled workers is a big reason most people make the move. The income difference between Nigeria and the developed European countries is so large, many are willing to uproot their families to better their economic status.

2. Career advancement

There are limited career opportunities in Nigeria, especially for those who hope to pursue careers that are out of the orthodox. Artistes and creative people will find it easier to grow outside of Nigeria than inside of it.

READ ALSO: Nigerian lady graduates as overall best student in Rutgers University

3. Job opportunities

Generally, there are more job opportunities available for qualified people outside Nigeria than inside it and this is another reason many leave the country.

4. Education

While students in Nigeria battle with lecturers, university strikes and a host of other troubles with the educational system, it is a different case in most developed countries.

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5. Exposure for children

Advancements in technological and industrial systems across the world are leaving most Nigerian children behind. Many leave the country to ensure their kids are not left behind.

Watch this Legit.ng video on the state of Nigeria:

Source: Legit.ng
- Members of the House of Representatives are currently seeking a bill to grant amnesty to those willing to return funds looted from Nigeria's treasury

- The bill the lawmakers said will provide a three-year amnesty to the looters

- The bill also seeks to establish a voluntary taxable income recovery and proper amnesty scheme for the recovery of stolen funds

Members of the House of Representatives are currently seeking a bill to grant amnesty to those willing to return funds looted from Nigeria's treasury.

The bill the lawmakers said will provide a three-year amnesty to the looters, Leadership reports.

The bill also seeks to establish a voluntary taxable income recovery and proper amnesty scheme for the recovery of stolen funds.

READ ALSO: Just in: Osinbajo makes new appointment (photos)

The scheme the legislature said will enable the injection of these recovered loots into the Nigerian economy.

Linus Okorie, the sponsor of the bill said once signed into law, the bill looters will voluntarily declare stolen money to the Central Bank of Nigeria with a 30% declaration tax paid into the federation's account.

READ ALSO: I took Okada to Magodo to arrest Evans the notorious kidnapper - Abba Kyari

Okorie said: After the declaration, 30 percent of the declared sum will be paid as tax into the federation account for distribution to all the tiers of government in the country, Okorie said.

While a 25 percent surcharge on the tax shall be deplored towards agricultural and infrastructural developments in the country. The remaining fund shall be invested in any sector of choice in the nations economy," Okore said.

He also noted that the said bill will help the federal government to fight corruption and improve the country's economic growth.

The bill also seeks to establish a voluntary taxable income recovery and proper amnesty scheme for the recovery of stolen funds

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In effect, our anti-corruption drive would then be prosecuted on a new paradigm and robust strategy supported by a national consensus built upon a positive attitudinal shift, he added.

Legit.ng earlier reported that the House members had said its members will ignore invitations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The lawmakers said members invited will only honour the commission's invitation through the Speaker of the House of representative Yakubu Dogara.

Watch a video of what Nigerians think about the Senate:

Source: Legit.ng
A road in Kerala's Kasargod municipality has been renamed by citizens to Gaza, a development that has caught the attention of intelligence and security agencies.

By Rohini Swamy: A move by citizens in Kerala's Kasargod district to rename a road has caught the attention of intelligence and security agencies.

The citizens chose 'Gaza' as the name for the road, which the reason the intelligence agencies are slightly worried.

Gaza is the name of a swathe of territory between Israel and Egypt that is administered by Palestine. The Gaza Strip, as it formally called, is blockaded by Israel and Egypt.

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The reason the development in Kerala seems to have caught the attention of the intelligence agencies is that the newly minted Gaza road (that is not its official name yet, though) is in the village of Padane, the same place from where 21 youngsters were believed to have been radicalised and inducted into the Islamic State.

The street, which is adjacent to the Thuruthi Jama Masjid, was inaugurated by district panchayat president AGC Basheer.

Basheer, however, distanced himself from the road's controversial name, saying that he was invited for the inauguration ceremony at the last minute and that he did not that the road had been renamed to Gaza.

Notably, Gaza is not the road's official name yet, as the Kasargod municipal council has not yet adopted a resolution directing the renaming.

P Ramesh, the leader of opposition in the Kasargod municipality, has said that if and when a resolution to rename the street to Gaza turns up at the council, it will be opposed tooth and nail.

Meanwhile, security agencies are keeping a close watch on the developments in the area.

ALSO READ | How ISIS lures youth with women, meat, chocolates to recruit in Kerala. An India Today exclusive

ALSO READ | Passenger, crew help Kerala woman give birth to a baby boy at 35,000 feet in Jet flight

ALSO WATCH | ISIS recruit from Kerala killed in drone strike in Afghanistan

--- ENDS ---
- Rights group HURIWA has accused the education minister of employing destabilizing plots to foist the study of Islamic religious study as compulsory subject in public secondary schools

- The group is demanding the restoration of both Islamic religious study and Christian religious knowledge as subjects in public school

- HURIWA also calls for an alternative subject to be called African traditional religious study to be introduced to balance the religious equation in Nigeria

The removal of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) from the curriculum of public schools has been described as a sinister plot to cause inter-religious crisis in Nigeria, by a non-governmental organization, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).

According to reports, in a statement signed by the groups president Emmanuel Onwubiko, the minister of education Mallam Adamu Adamu was referred to as an agent of destabilization of inter-religious harmony going by his arbitrary appointments of Muslims to head strategic educational agencies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC); Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB); Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) among others.

READ ALSO: I took an okada to Magodo to arrest Evans - Abba Kyari

The statement read: We view this primordial inclination to favor his own religious orientation in the framing and implementation of national educational policies even when section 10 of the constitution of Nigeria has absolutely banned the elevation of any religion as state religion.

We are aware of the very destabilizing plots to foist the study of Islamic religious study as compulsory subject in public secondary school even when the constitution in section 38 (1) and (2) provides that on no occasion will a strange religious faith be taught to students/pupils of different religious persuasions.

Specifically section 38 (1) & (2) averred thus: (1) Every person shall be entitled to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom (either alone or in community with others, and in public or in private) to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, practice and observance."

Reminding the Nigerian Presidency of the wordings of sub-section (2) of section 38 of the Constitution, HURIWA affirmed that: No person attending any place of education shall be required to receive religious instruction or attend any religious ceremony or observance if such instruction, ceremony or observance relates to a religion other than his or a religion not approved by his parent or guardian."

The group stated: We have it on good authority that the current education minister has arbitrarily ordered that in the current curriculum, Islamic and Christian Religious Studies will no longer be studied in schools as subjects on their own but as themes in a civic education."

It added that Islamic studies had however been made a compulsory alternative subject to French for students in sections of the curriculum.

According to HURIWA, Christian students would be forced to take Islamic Arabic Studies since French teachers were scarce in the country as against a glut of Islamic teachers.

They stated that this is absolutely unconstitutional and amounts to an attempt to impose one religion as a state religion against the constitutional provision outlined in section 10.

HURIWA further stated: We demand the restoration of both Islamic religious study and Christian religious knowledge as subjects in public school just as we hereby ask that an alternative subject to be called African traditional religious study to be introduced to balance the religious equation in Nigeria.

We totally condemn this attempt by the education Minister to promote his own religion using public office and resources even when the Nigerian constitution frowns against such extralegal inclination.

We warn that this attitude of Mallam Adamu Adamu can only promote religious disharmony and could precipitate religious war.

We call for the observance of federal character principle in the appointments of key officials in the Education ministry.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that following the plea made by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to the federal government over the removal of Christian Religious Knowledge from schools, founder of Omega Fire Ministries (OFM), Apostle Johnson Suleman, warned President Buhari not to Islamize Nigeria.

Watch this Legit.ng TV video of a Lagos school which was surrounded by snakes

Source: Legit.ng
- A northern youth has written an open letter to Acting President Yemi Osinbajo over Biafra

- The AYCF had last two weeks issued a three months quit notice to Igbos in the region

- The Coalition of Northern Youths also listed what they call Igbos crime since 1960

Despite the hues and cries that greeted the three months quit notice given to Igbos by Arewa Youth Consultatives Forum (AYCF), a Coalition of Northern Youths has written a letter to the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, begging him to allow Ndigbo to go and have their Biafra Republic.

In a statement sent to Legit.ng, a Facebook user, Yazid Ahmed said the group lauded the peace and conflict resolution moves being done by the Acting President, but noted that it doubted the efficacy of it in bringing a lasting solution to the problem in question rocking the nation at present.

READ ALSO: OPINION: How APC, Oyegun betrayed Buhari - Joe Igbokwe

Ahmed said the group argued that the principle of self-determination has since world war II become a part of the United Nations Charter, which states in Article 1(2) that one of the purposes of the UN is to develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo

They said: Though we do not doubt Your Excellencys bona fide concerns for the peaceful resolution of the crises, we nevertheless have reservations as to the efficacy of this approach in ensuring lasting solutions.

Our doubts are informed by the following historical antecedents that have characterized the behavior and conduct of the Igbo in Nigeria and previous efforts at containing them.

They listed troubles with the Igbos as follow:

The Igbo of Eastern Nigeria manifested their hatred for Nigerias unity barely five years after we gained our independence from the British when on January 15, 1966, their army officers carried out the first-ever mutiny that marked the beginning of a series of crisis which has profoundly altered the course of Nigerias history.

By that ill motivated cowardly and deliberate action, the Igbo killed many northern officers from the rank of lieutenant colonel upwards and also decapitated the Prime Minister and the political leadership of the Northern and Western regions but left the zenith of Igbo leadership at the Federal level and the Eastern region intact.

In line with the Igbo plan, General Aguiyi-Ironsi took advantage of the vacuum and, instead of returning power to the remnants of the First Republic government; he appropriated the coup and attempted to consolidate it for his people.

Army officers of the Northern Region were eventually compelled to execute a counter coup on July 29, 1966 following a coordinated series of brazen provocations from the Igbo who taunting northerners on northern streets by mocking the way leaders of the region were slain by the Igbo.This unfortunately resulted in mob action which resulted in the death of many Igbos.

And when Lt. Col. Yakubu Gowon, from the North took over as Head of State following the counter coup, the Igbo through Lt. Col. Ojukwu, characteristically refused to recognize Gowon.

Ojukwu declared the secession of the Igbo people from Nigeria and the formation of the republic of Biafra on May 30, 1967 resulting in a civil war that led to the tragic deaths of more than 2 million Nigerians.

Concerned by the fact that the Biafrans have confessed to arming themselves for a violent breakup, we feel that it is risky for the rest of the country particularly the North to go on pretending that it is safe for us to co habitate with the Igbos given how deeply they are entrenched in our societies.

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The Igbo have gone to extra ordinary lengths to ensure that in their domain in the South East, Northerners and Westerners are as much as possible disenfranchised from owning any businesses whereas in Kano alone, they own not less than 100, 000 shops across all the business districts.

The group pray His Excellency study the references forwarded with this letter dispassionately and decide who is more in the wrong between those who openly pledge allegiance to a country other than Nigeria backing it up with persistent threats of war and those of us whose allegiance remains with the Nigerian state but simply urge that the secessionists be allowed to actualize their dream peacefully throw universally entrenched democratic options.

Meanwhile Legit.ng had previously reported that Osinbajo met with traditional rulers from the northern region of the country as part of his effort to douse the tension generated by a quit notice issued to Igbos living in the north.

In the video below, Legit.ng TV disuses about the quit notice issued by northern youths to the Igbo living in the north among other issues.

Source: Legit.ng
- The Igbo community in Lokoja, the Kogi state capital states that God who brought Nigerians together as one knows the reason for doing so

- President-general of the group, Maximus Okochi, says Igbo kinsmen living in the state capital and its environs reject calls for the breakup of Nigeria

- Okochi calls on those agitating for a breakup of the country to learn from history

The Igbo community in Lokoja, the Kogi state capital has described the agitation for the breakup of the country as a misplaced priority.

The group told journalist on Saturday, June 17, that God who brought Nigerians together as one knows the reason for doing so.

READ ALSO: I was trained to kill by cultists - 27-year-old man confesses to Lagos police

Speaking for the group, Maximus Okochi, who is the president-general of the community said following wide consultations among his Igbo kinsmen living in the state capital and its environs, the group has rejected calls for the breakup of Nigeria, Daily Times reports.

Even though agitation for independence is not new all over the world, what is strange is the violent way in which such agitation is being made. We are against breaking Nigeria. God who brought us together knows the reason for doing so and no one has the right to separate us. The unity of Nigeria is not negotiable, he said.

Okochi stated that the Igbos living in Kogi state enjoy a cordial relationship with the indigenes and had intermarried among them.

He called on those agitating for a breakup of the country to learn from history, noting that a breakup will be of no good in the long run.

If what happened from 1967 to 1970 was a mistake, then there should be no reason to repeat it as repeating a mistake amounts to senselessness which true Igbos are not known for, Okochi stated.

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He however asked the federal government to address the issues of marginalisation, underdevelopment and other injustices fueling the clamour for agitation.

Meanwhile, despite the hues and cries that greeted the three months quit notice given to Igbos by Arewa Youth Consultatives Forum (AYCF), a Coalition of Northern Youths has written a letter to the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, begging him to allow Ndigbo to go and have their Biafra Republic.

In a statement sent to Legit.ng, a Facebook user, Yazid Ahmed said the group lauded the peace and conflict resolution moves being done by the Acting President, but noted that it doubted the efficacy of it in bringing a lasting solution to the problem in question rocking the nation at present.

In a related development, Yemi Osinbajo is scheduled to meet with traditional rulers from the northern region of the country as part of his effort to douse the tension generated by a quit notice issued to Igbos living in the north.

The presidency said on Sunday, June 18, that the meeting between the acting president and the northern traditional leaders would take place on Monday evening, June 19.

In the video below, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo at the #Biafra50 event in Abuja said Nigerians are greater together than apart.

Source: Legit.ng
- 17 people have been confirmed dead in Borno state multiple blasts

- The incident occurred around 8:30pm on Sunday June 18

- It occurred when Muslim faithful were performing their night prayers

At least 17 persons were killed after five suspected female bombers attacked Kofa Community near Dalori in Borno.

READ ALSO: Check out houses where notorious kidnapper Evans keeps his victims

Eyewitness told newsmen in Kofa that the incident occurred around 8:30pm Sunday, when Muslim faithful were performing their night prayers.

We heard loud sound around 8:30pm, near a mosque, forcing people to run back to their house

As we were preparing to rescue the victims of the first blast, we heard another explosion close by.

It was really terrifying; many people died and many others were injured

The third explosion occurred after a short while.

The incident occurred around 8:30pm on Sunday June 18

Eventually, we evacuated eight bodies in the night, to the hospital, while 25 others were injured, recounted Malam Ibrahim Kolo, member of a vigilante group.

Mr Victor Isuku, spokesman of Borno Police Command, confirmed the incident, saying 17 persons were killed during the attacks.

On Sunday , at about 2030hrs, five suspected female bombers detonated explosives strapped to their bodies in Kofa community, which is about 8km from Maiduguri, and situated along Maiduguri to Konduga road.

The first bomber detonated near a mosque, killing seven persons.

 The second detonated in a house killing five persons, while two other bombers detonated within the same vicinity, killing themselves only.

A total of 17 persons, including the five bombers died, while 11 persons sustained injuries and were rushed to University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Police anti explosive team were mobilized to the scene and normalcy has since been restored, he said.

However, spokesperson of the North East Zonal office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Abdulkadir Ibrahim, said in a statement in Maiduguri that 16 people were killed.

At about 8.45 pm, two female bombers were intercepted when they tried to gain access into Dalori 2 IDP camp.

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Two other female bombers also detonated their explosives at the adjoining Dalori kofa village at about 8.10 pm, where they killed 16 people, Ibrahim said.

A total of four bombers were involved in the incident. Injured victims have been administered with first aid and transported to hospitals within Maiduguri for treatment, said Ibrahim.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that two Boko Haram bombers who attacked the city ended up getting killed in their own explosion while another one was shot dead by the army.

Cameroon based investigative journalist, Bisong Etahoben, announced the attack in a tweet he made on Tuesday morning.

Source: Legit.ng
Well before sunrise on May 21, a Border Security Force (BSF) special operations squad led by company commander S.N. Kalita spotted a Toyota Innova driving suspiciously close to the electrified security fencing along the India-Pakistan border in Amritsar's Ramdas sector. On intercepting the vehicle, the BSF troopers detained two Nihang Sikhs with illegal weapons, a .315 rifle and a revolver. Maan Singh and Sher Singh confessed they were to pick up an arms consignment smuggled in the night before from Pakistan. Zeroing in on the drop-point coordinates, Kalita's men seized the biggest cache of illegal weapons and explosives in Punjab in recent years, close to 500 rounds of ammunition and firearms that include Chinese-made AK-47 and modified MP9 rifles, 7.62 mm pistols, a .32 bore revolver and a sack full of hand grenades.

A fortnight later, on June 4, the fortuitous capture of the two Nihangs resulted in more arrests. Based on their interrogation, a calibrated operation, by Punjab police's counterintelligence unit, led to the arrest of Gurdial Singh, Jagroop Singh and Satwinder Singh, key Khalistani hitmen suspected to be part of a widespread assassination plan in Punjab and Delhi. The arms seized in Ramdas on May 21 were meant for these terrorists, says a security officer who questioned the suspects.

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Custodial interrogation unravelled more. Of the three men picked up from Hoshiarpur's Pojewal village on June 4, Gurdial is the only one with past connections to Khalistan terrorism and is in touch with International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) chief Lakhbir Singh Rode and his cohorts in Canada and Germany. In 1992, he was arrested for possessing a Thompson submachine gun. Jagroop and Satwinder are recent recruits, radicalised through extremist propaganda that has flooded social media in the past decade.

Jagroop, interrogators say, confessed to travelling to Pakistan (Lahore and Nankana Sahib) with Sikh pilgrims from November 12 to 21 last year. The visit was facilitated by ISYF's Germany-based handler Balvir Sandhu, along with Rode and Khalistan Liberation Force's Harmeet Singh, both living in an ISI safehouse at Dera Chahal near Lahore Cantonment. Jagroop went through a four-day training in explosives and automatic weapons while in Pakistan.

Related developments have caused even more alarm in the security establishment in Punjab and Delhi. Since April 17, six Khalistan terror modules have been busted and 23 terrorists arrested with a small arsenal of weapons. Officials say it signals a concerted fresh effort to renew terrorist violence in Punjab, the most significant such development since the demise of the Khalistan movement in the mid-1990s. "After the mid to late 1990s, Pakistan's biggest problem was finding foot soldiers to execute its Khalistan design," says a senior Punjab police officer. He adds that a robust intelligence network that has infiltrated every Khalistani outfit sheltering in overseas havens in the West had also helped keep things below a simmer.

But all seemed to change after the summer of 2015 that witnessed a series of protests by farmers' organisations over crop losses from spurious pesticides. While the farmers eventually scaled down their agitation, the countryside erupted again over the desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib in Faridkot's Bargari village on October 12. Outraged Sikhs hit the streets against the then SAD-BJP government's perceived inaction. Many believed the Akali leadership was somehow complicit in the incident in Faridkot and at gurdwaras across the state. The violence spiralled out of control after October 14 when police firing killed two people among a peaceful crowd holding a prayer meeting in Behbal Kalan village over the desecration in Faridkot two days earlier.

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Till date, close to 150 incidents of desecration of the Guru Granth Sahib have been reported. Though there are credible explanations for a majority of the incidents and the culprits have been apprehended in many cases, it is all being used to revive perceptions of injustice against the Sikh community. A conspiracy by Pakistan's ISI and extremists within the Sikh diaspora is more than discernible. Social media has been abuzz, dubious videos depicting Sikh demonstrators and purported excesses by the police; preachers openly abusing mainstream politicians and exhorting Sikhs to take to the streets; imagined and exaggerated reports of sacrilege.

Almost akin to what is under way in the Kashmir Valley in the wake of militant Burhan Wani's killing last year, intelligence officials say much of the social media content in Punjab is fed by Sikh radicals abroad and ISI networks. It's all served to whip up a fresh wave of radicalisation among young Sikhs. "It's the biggest tipping point since 1984," says a senior counterintelligence expert associated with investigations of the six terror modules busted since April this year. "To the present generation, brought up on the 'ultimate heroism' and 'supreme sacrifice' narratives around Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale and other slain Khalistanis, the incidents of sacrilege are unforgivable affronts. Although there are perfectly plausible explanations, such as an electrical short circuit, for many of the cases, they're unwilling to see it as anything but extreme disrespect of their Guru."

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Social media helps such notions go viral. Besides the hundreds of WhatsApp groups, intelligence agencies have detected some 140 Facebook Messenger groups and 125 Facebook pages purveying radical propaganda. On the night of May 29, an intelligence operation by the Mohali district police led to the arrest of four most unlikely 'terrorists'. Amritpal Kaur alias 'Amrit' is a Ludhiana homemaker and a triple MA; Harbarinder Singh, in his forties, is the son of a retired district education officer; Jarnail Singh is a resident of Kalanaur in Gurdaspur district; and Randeep Singh, just 19, has briefly trained at the Damdami Taksal, a Sikh seminary near Amritsar.

Not one of those arrested has any record of being a Khalistan sympathiser. They all met up on Facebook to become members of 'Khalistan Zindabad', a Facebook Messenger group with intensely radical content. Police officers who interrogated them in Mohali say they were all nursing a sense of grievance over the failure to stop the acts of sacrilege. "Harbarinder, who otherwise seems like a reasonable and educated person, has been keeping a count of every reported incident of sacrilege in Punjab," says an officer. Amritpal's Facebook page bears the following message below a picture of Bhindranwale: "I am Mrs Amritpal Kaur from Ludhiana. I don't want to be ruled by India. Khalistan zindabad."

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The group has not only received funding from Khalistani elements abroad but also local financing to procure weapons. Those arrested were found carrying pistols and a .315 bore rifle. Eleven members have so far been apprehended. Besides the four nabbed by the Mohali police, five others, Tarsem Singh, Mokham Singh, Manjit Singh, Jaswant Singh and Jasbir Singh, were picked up at Rampura Phul in Bathinda district as they set out for an assassination attempt. Two others, Ramandeep Singh and Parminder Singh, were detained following the interrogation of the initial group. Police believe the group that came together after the Faridkot incident in 2015 has links with Khalistani elements in Dubai and Lahore and may have a much larger following than what has yet been exposed.

Senior Punjab police officers say the rise of the Hindu right wing across the country is also stoking Sikh radicalism. In addition, saffron outfits, including the RSS and Shiv Sena, that hardly had any presence in Punjab during the Khalistan years, are now increasingly active and visible. "There's a clear backlash," says an officer, pointing to the new Khalistanis' choice of targets. Besides the usual names on the hit list, many of the attacks post the BJP's ascent in 2014 and the acts of sacrilege in 2015 targeted lower rung Hindu leaders (see graphic: The Killing Fields of Punjab).

Khalistan networks have continued to thrive not only in Pakistan but also in safe havens in Malaysia, Thailand, UK, Germany, Canada and the US. But what is making the security establishment sit up and take notice is that unlike in the two decades since chief minister Beant Singh's assassination in August 1995, there is suddenly no dearth of local foot soldiers for the Khalistan terror machine.

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- The Edo state government has revealed that it will relocate its barracks at Ikpoba Hill

- Governor Godwin Obaseki expressed displeasure with the dilapidated facilities at the barracks

- The governor said that the Army needed better facilities for it to be able to strategise to tackle insecurity in the country

The Edo state government has revealed that it will synergize with the 4th Brigade Headquarters in the state to relocate its barracks at Ikpoba Hill to a more conducive place.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state disclosed this after inspecting the barrack in Benin on Sunday, June 18.

Legit.ng gathered that the governor, who was accompanied by the Brigade Commander, Brig. Gen Ibrahim Garba, expressed displeasure with the dilapidated facilities at the barracks saying that it was imperative for officers and men of the Army live in an ideal environment.

READ ALSO: Senator Dino Melaye in big trouble as 188,580 electorates sign to have lawmaker recalled

Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki and Army officials inspecting the barracks in Benin

He also said that the Army needed better facilities to strategize and tackle the security challenges in the country.

As you can see this is not an ideal place for military men to live. We are going to work with the Brigade to look at other properties and other barracks to see how we can get land to relocate most of these facilities, including the schools and health facility.

I dont think it is in the interest of the nation that our Army officers and men live under these conditions, he said.

Governor Obaseki also added that his administration was collaborating with Institutions to provide an affordable social housing scheme that would allow Army officers and men live in decent accommodation.

The governor also inspected facilities at the Ekenhuan barracks of the 4th Brigade where he noted that some facilities at the Ikpoba Hill barracks would be relocated there.

Among facilities inspected were the Army Day Primary and Secondary schools, the Medical Centre, residential quarters and water facilities.

Obaseki, however, expressed worries over the vandalism of school facilities in the barracks noting that he would recall the contractors handling rehabilitation in the school, as the Brigade Commander had promised to reinforce security.

The governor condemned encroachment by neighbouring communities into the barracks land, noting that the ministry of Lands, Urban and Regional Planning would be mandated to get back the lands to the Army.

He ordered that properties built around a moat in Orovie community, close to the Army barrack, should be demolished, as there was an existing law, which kicked against such acts.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigerias #1 news app

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Nigerian Army announced the arrest of a Boko Haram suspect hiding in a village in Bauchi state.

Army spokesman Brigadier-General Sani Usman Kukasheka confirmed the arrest in a press statement late on Friday, June 16.

According to him, the suspect was caught with weapons after he was arrested by soldiers who were acting on a tip off.

Nigerians were asked if they still regard the police officers as their friends. Watch what they have to say in the Legit.ng Tv video below:

Source: Legit.ng
GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Heres why you can trust us.
Elbit Systems offers a comprehensive range of UAS  from the man-portable Skylark LEX mini UAS, through the versatile tactical UAS and up to the next-generation Hermes 900 medium altitude long endurance (MALE) UAS.

Elbit Systems Elbit Systems Reveals at Paris Airshow SkEye WAPS  a Revolutionary Airborne Wide-Area Persistent Surveillance Solution for HLS and Defense Needs.

The SkEye system provides a unique, Eye in the Sky, overall situational awareness of on-the- ground intelligence data, and enables a large number of users to receive real-time, high-resolution imagery and even go back-in- time Elbit Systems will reveal at the 2017 Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, taking place this week, an innovative wide area persistent surveillance solution  SkEye WAPS.

The Elbit Systems Hermes 900 Kochav (Star) is an Israeli medium size multi-payload unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for medium altitude long endurance (MALE) tactical missions. It has an endurance of over 30 hours and can fly at a maximum altitude of 30,000 feet (9,100 m), with a primary mission of reconnaissance, surveillance and communications relay. The Hermes 900 has a wingspan of 15 m (49 ft) and weighs 970 kg (2,140 lb), with a payload capability of 300 kg (660 lb).

* gigapixel cameras

* 30 hour drone endurance

* cover 80 square kilometers

* cover ten different regions at the same time

Visual Intelligence (VISINT) gathering was traditionally available in a designated video format. The user could see and record only the area the Electro Optic (EO) payload was viewing, while missing the surrounding area. SkEye WAPS changes this paradigm by persistently observing and recording a wider area than ever before and offering the systems users the ability to select real-time or back in time video footage within the covered area without being limited to a single segment. Up to ten Regions of Interest (ROI) can be thoroughly analyzed simultaneously using video footage from the recent and previous missions.

Developed specifically to address requirements raised by defense and law enforcement agencies, responding to natural disaster recovery events, terrorism and homeland security threats, SkEye WAPS comprises advanced capabilities in the field of imagery intelligence gathering, providing a complete high-resolution picture and up to 80 square kilometer coverage of the Area of Interest (AOI) to a large number of users.

SkEye WAPS provides a clearer picture in less time, thus exponentially increasing trust in the decision making process. While looking over a large Area-of Interest (AOI), operators can zoom into multiple Regions of Interest (ROI) simultaneously and understand the connection between them. This is achieved without neglecting the rest of the area, which is still being recorded and constantly analyzed.

At the heart of the system is an airborne segment consisting of the EO sensor unit, an advanced image processing unit, a large mass storage unit and analysis applications.

Via an embedded data link, the relevant information is transmitted from the aircraft to the SkEye, Control and Management Center (SCMC) (fixed or mobile), which can be integrated with the customers Command & Control (C2) solution.

SkEye WAPS features a fully-programmable alerting system that allows commanders to be notified of specific/unusual events through a customized alert mechanism. These capabilities complement and enhance SkEye WAPS unparalleled persistent surveillance functions, providing operators with an exceptional solution for locating and monitoring different situations.

The solution is already operating in various countries globally, contributing to defense and HLS missions, and is installed on various types of unmanned aircraft vehicles and light aircraft.

Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, Elbit Systems President & CEO said: Elbit Systems SkeEye WAPS system is a game changer in homeland security missions, enabling forces to analyze and retrace the steps of terrorists and criminals in an extremely large area, providing them with timely and valuable data in life threatening situations. In light of recent threats worldwide and particularly in Europe, SkEye WAPS provides meaningful leverage to security organizations in intelligence gathering mission and countering terrorist threats.
The US Army used cyber weapons and electronic warfare (EW) technology to thwart a simulated tank assault at a training exercise conducted at the Army National Training Center at California.>A The exercise reinforced the need for the EW and cyber protection technology that is under development by entities such as the Army Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO) and U.S. Cyber Command.

The cyber weapon used in the exercise specifically targeted the radio and wireless communication systems of the tankers. Cyber warfare can include both jamming of communication signals and hacker infiltration into networks, which they can then either disable or manipulate to relay false information to commanders from within their own networks.

GPS alternatives being explored include DARPAs Adaptable Navigation Systems (ANS) and Spatial, Temporal and Orientation Information in Contested Environments program, which is based on using extremely long-range signals, self-sufficient tactical clocks, and data sharing to overcome EW attacks.

The ANS program uses cold-atom interferometry technology to pinpoint location and time without transmitting electromagnetic signals to and from satellites that are susceptible to enemy EW interference. The ANS sensor houses a cloud of atoms and software algorithms are able to measure the acceleration and rotation of this atom cloud to calculate position and time.

The ANS is also capable of exploiting commercial electromagnetic emissions from radios and TVs, as well as natural electromagnetic emissions from lightning strikes, according to a DARPA media release. Cold-atom interferometry data combined with data from these incidental emissions render the ANS a potentially more accurate and versatile measurement system, able to operate in GPS-denied environments.

As many as seven alternative systems for Precision, Navigation, and Timing are being considered, and work on the first PNT projects has begun and is scheduled for operational assessment in early 2018, Shoffner said at the AFCEA NOVA Army IT Day.
US and British intelligence services believe that they tracked the WannaCry ransomware to North Korea via attributing it to the Lazarus Group, who hacked Sony Pictures in 2014 preceding the release of the comedy film "The Interview".

4 Reviews

The malware dubbed "WannaCry" gained notoriety when, last month, it infected over 300,000 PCs around the world. Like other ransomware, WannaCry would infect a computer, encrypt the user's files, and then demand US$300 in Bitcoin for the decryption key. The cybersecurity department of British intelligence has reported that the recent WannaCry ransomware attack was the work of The Lazarus Group  also linked to the 2014 hack of Sony Pictures, which was allegedly in response to a comedy film about North Korea.

Intelligence services, including the NSA, point to Chinese IP addresses that have been used previously by North Korea's intelligence agency. China has denied involvement in the attacks, pointing to the damage caused to their own networks. The hackers, however, are fluent in Chinese, but this does not mean that they are Chinese. North Korea and China have enjoyed a very close relationship since the birth of the communist state, and many North Koreans learn Chinese for political or business reasons.
The fatigue from Saturdays mistrial has hardly faded for either side in the Bill Cosby sexual assault case, but both need to begin preparing almost immediately for a new trial that the prosecution has vowed to bring.

Judge Steven T. ONeill has said a second trial would begin within months and, if the case just concluded is any measure, they will be months filled with motions and countermotions as each side jockeys for an edge.

Andrea Constand, who said Mr. Cosby sexually assaulted her in 2004 at his home outside Philadelphia, has agreed to take the stand again in Norristown, Pa., where the first trial occurred.

We will evaluate and review our case, said the Montgomery County district attorney, Kevin R. Steele, after the trial. We will take a hard look at everything involved, and then we will retry it.
This Russian guy ran out of money while travelling. So, he resorted to an unusual way of meeting his travel expenses.

By India Today Web Desk: Instances like these reaffirm the belief that all you need for an adventurous expedition is a grand spirit.

While you were worrying about meeting your travel expenses, this Russian traveller decided to earn money from the very inhabitants of the country he is currently visiting.

If you walk past the Palika Bazaar-crossing in Connaught Place, New Delhi, you will find this Russian national sitting on a platform with a range of postcard-sized travel photographs. If that makes you wonder what all this is about, read the placard lying next to the neatly arranged pictures. And the message is quite clear:

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''Hello. I'm from Russia. These photos are from my travel. Price up to you. Support my trip.''

Also Read: This couple is making lots and lots of money by just travelling and using social media

This young traveller calls himself Kola and has been selling photos in Delhi to earn money to continue his trip in India.

''It's a long name, Nikola, and Indian name is Coca Cola, because people ask me what's my name and I say Kola, they say Coca Cola. I say yes," Kola was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

While many of us will think twice before doing something not-so-sophisticated, our guest from abroad seems to think otherwise. ''It's normal. No problem. I come back from Nepal. I sell photo for one week and make money,'' said Kola, in his broken English.

Kola is currently living in a hostel in Delhi. Of course, his earnings are uncertain; on some occasions, he makes about Rs 1000 a day.

Kola's Indian visa expires on June 22. But before he heads back, there is one particular destination he is eagerly looking forward to visit--Kashmir.

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AMSTERDAM  In the late 1950s, a young Kenyan man named Barack Hussein Obama wrote a series of books in his native language, Luo, for a program to promote adult literacy in Africa. The coordinator of that program, Elizabeth Mooney, singled him out as particularly talented, and helped him apply to an international study program at the University of Hawaii. There he met and married a student of cultural anthropology, Ann Dunham. Their only child would become an American president, sharing his fathers name.

Original copies of the little books that started it all have been discovered in the hands of a private citizen in the Netherlands, and are up for auction until Monday through a Dutch online auction house, with an estimated price of 2,500 to 3,500 euros, or about $2,800 to $4,000. The auctioneer, Adams Amsterdam Auctions, says that they are the only known set in private hands.

Before the discovery of this set of the books, there were only two known copies: one held by the Library of Congress and another owned by Northwestern University, according to Mary-Jane Deeb, chief of the African and Middle Eastern Division of the Library of Congress in Washington.

That little book had such an impact, Ms. Deeb said. It changes the course of history. When you think about how sheer accident can change so much, its breathtaking.
Representatives of Jared Kushner, President Trumps son-in-law and senior adviser, have quietly contacted high-powered criminal lawyers about potentially representing him in the wide-ranging investigation into Russias influence on the 2016 election, according to three people briefed on the matter.

Some of Mr. Kushners allies have raised questions about the link between his current lawyer, Jamie S. Gorelick, and Robert S. Mueller III, the special counsel appointed to investigate the Trump campaigns ties to Russia, according to one of the people who spoke on condition of anonymity. Before the Justice Department named him to the special counsel post, Mr. Mueller was a law partner with Ms. Gorelick at the Washington firm of WilmerHale.

Such connections are common in Washington legal circles and are often resolved by an acknowledgment from the client of the possible conflict. In this case, Ms. Gorelick urged Mr. Kushner to consider other representation first.

In recent days, Mr. Kushner has had discussions with at least one prominent trial lawyer, one of the people said. And if Mr. Kushner chooses to hire a new lawyer, this person may either supplement or replace Ms. Gorelicks team.
For viewers who had never heard of Alex Jones before Sunday evening, Megyn Kellys much-hyped interview with him on NBC did not paint a flattering picture.

In a 17-minute segment  which had generated hours of commentary and a raft of protests before it aired  Ms. Kelly repeatedly challenged Mr. Jones, the conspiracy theorist, Infowars founder and influential right-wing personality.

She pressed him on his baseless claims that the Sandy Hook school shooting was a hoax. She confronted him about describing teenage victims of the terror attack in Manchester, England, in May as liberal trendies. And she described his behavior as reckless accusation, followed by equivocations and excuses.

Ms. Kellys solemn and scolding tone  That doesnt excuse what you did and said about Newtown, she told Mr. Jones at one point as he tried to explain his views on Sandy Hook  may placate some who objected when the former Fox News anchor announced her feature on Mr. Jones.
Heres a look at whats coming up this week.

AIRPLANE MANUFACTURING

Boeing, Airbus and others feel the sting of slowing sales.

One of the longest upswings in sales of commercial airplanes is faltering, with orders sliding for the largest jets made by Boeing and Airbus. Aviation analysts say the slowdown could last several years, and how to cope with it is likely to be a major topic at this weeks International Paris Air Show. Boeing has cut production of its giant 777 and 747-8 jets. And some analysts question how much longer Airbus will be able to keep building its mammoth A380, which carries more than 500 people. Christopher Drew

OIL INDUSTRY

Mexico will open sections of oil fields for bidding.

Mexicos National Hydrocarbons Commission will auction off 15 exploratory blocks in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, the latest step in the countrys long-awaited opening of its oil industry to private investment. Twenty oil companies, including Chevron and Shell, have qualified to bid, along with 16 consortiums, suggesting broad interest in the exploratory blocks. Pablo Medina, an oil analyst with Wood Mackenzie, said he expected that as many as 10 blocks would be awarded, making the auction a success by industry standards. Elisabeth Malkin

MEDIA

Regulators will decide if Sky purchase is fit and proper.

British regulators will rule Tuesday on whether 21st Century Fox can buy the remaining 61 percent stake in Sky that it does not already own for $14.9 billion. The proposed takeover of Sky, the British satellite provider, has raised concerns that Rupert Murdoch and his family will gain too much control over Britains news media, accusations that the Murdochs deny. The deal has also raised questions about whether 21st Century Foxs executives are fit and proper to hold a British broadcasting licenses after the sexual harassment scandal at Fox News. Mark Scott

ECONOMY

Economists expect weak home sales figures for May.

Sales of existing homes slipped in April as a continued dearth of inventory left people searching for homes that were not there. The month-to-month trend is choppy, but economists expect the spring selling-by season to remain weak when the May numbers come out on Wednesday. Even though household balance sheets have improved and mortgage rates remain low, wishful home buyers need homes, and there arent enough for sale. Conor Dougherty
OAKLAND, Calif.  YouTube has struggled for years with videos that promote offensive viewpoints but do not necessarily violate the companys guidelines for removal. Now it is taking a new approach: Bury them.

The issue has gained new prominence amid media reports that one of the London Bridge attackers became radicalized by watching YouTube videos of an American Islamic preacher, whose sermons have been described as employing extremely charged religious and sectarian language.

On Sunday, Google, YouTubes parent company, announced a set of policies aimed at curbing extremist videos on the platform. For videos that are clearly in violation of its community guidelines, such as those promoting terrorism, Google said it would quickly identify and remove them. The process for handling videos that do not necessarily violate specific rules of conduct is more complicated.

Under the policy change, Google said offensive videos that did not meet its standard for removal  for example, videos promoting the subjugation of religions or races without inciting violence  would come with a warning and could not be monetized with advertising, or be recommended, endorsed or commented on by users. Such videos were already not allowed to include advertising, but they were not restricted in any other way.
Stephen Furst, whose early role as the hapless, lovable fraternity pledge Flounder in the hit 1978 comedy National Lampoons Animal House earned him lasting recognition, died early Friday at his home in Moorpark, Calif. He was 63.

The cause was probably congestive heart failure brought on by complications of diabetes, his son Nathan said.

The chubby naif Kent Dorfman, nicknamed Flounder, was one of his earliest professional roles, one that he remained proud of throughout his career, and returned to for the short-lived television series Delta House.

The movie, set in the early 1960s, is about an unruly fraternity that the college administration wants to shut down. In her review in The New York Times, Janet Maslin said, Stephen Furst does some very successful scene-stealing as the house blimp.
LONDON  A van drove into a group of pedestrians early Monday near a mosque in London, killing one person and injuring 10 in what the mayor called a horrific terrorist attack that struck Muslims as they finished prayers.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the case was being investigated as a possible act of terrorism. The driver of the van, a 48-year-old man, was arrested after bystanders kept him from fleeing, the police said in a statement.

One man was pronounced dead at the scene. Eight pedestrians were taken to three separate hospitals, and two were treated at the scene for minor injuries, the police said.

The mayor, Sadiq Khan, acknowledged that the situation was still unfolding, and he urged Londoners to remain calm and vigilant. While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, he said, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

The British prime minister, Theresa May, said that she would lead an emergency meeting later Monday about the case. All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene, she said.
LONDON  Chastened by a wave of public indignation, the British government on Sunday took direct control of the response to a deadly apartment tower fire in London, sidelining local officials whose response has been criticized as slow and disorganized.

The fire, which turned the 24-story Grenfell Tower into a block of ash on Wednesday, has become a political crisis for Prime Minister Theresa May, whose Conservative Party lost its majority in Parliament in an election six days before the fire.

As the police prepared to release a new death toll on Monday  the current figure is 58  a chorus of politicians called the disaster an emblem of inequality. Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the opposition Labour Party, said the government should seize vacant apartments  many of them luxury homes owned by overseas investors  to shelter displaced families. Londons mayor, Sadiq Khan, called the fire a preventable accident brought about by years of neglect.
Carrie Fisher tested positive for cocaine, methadone, ethanol and opiates when she was admitted to the hospital four days before her death in December, according to a toxicology report released on Monday by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

But the coroners office said it could not determine the role of drugs in Ms. Fishers death, which it said last Friday was caused by sleep apnea and a combination of other factors, including heart disease.

Ms. Fisher, who gained worldwide fame for her portrayal of Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise, was 60 years old when she died on Dec. 27 in Los Angeles after collapsing on a flight from London four days earlier. Her mother, the actress Debbie Reynolds, had a stroke and died the next day, at the age of 84.

The toxicology report, which was completed last month, said Ms. Fisher had suffered from other conditions at the time of her death, including atherosclerotic heart disease and drug use, and said she was also receiving therapy for bipolar disorder. But it said her manner of death was undetermined and the significance of her drug use was not ascertained.
In his insightful and harrowing new book, Edward Luce, a columnist for The Financial Times, issues a chilling warning: Western liberal democracy is not yet dead, he writes, but it is far closer to collapse than we may wish to believe. It is facing its gravest challenge since the Second World War. This time, however, we have conjured up the enemy from within. At home and abroad, Americas best liberal traditions are under assault from its own president. We have put arsonists in charge of the fire brigade.

Luce does not see Donald J. Trump or populist nationalists in Europe, like Marine Le Pen, as causes of todays crisis in democratic liberalism but rather as symptoms. Nor does he see President Trumps victory last November as an accident delivered by the dying gasp of Americas white majority  and abetted by Putin, after which regular political programming will soon resume.

Instead, he argues in The Retreat of Western Liberalism, Trumps election is a part of larger trends on the world stage, including the failure of two dozen democracies since the turn of the millennium (including three in Europe  Russia, Turkey and Hungary) and growing downward pressures on the Wests middle classes (wrought by the snowballing forces of globalization and automation) that are fomenting nationalism and populist revolts. These developments, in turn, represent a repudiation of the naive hopes, after the fall of the Berlin Wall, that liberal democracy was on an inevitable march across the planet, and they also pose a challenge to the Wests Enlightenment faith in reason and linear progress.

Like Richard Haasss recent book, A World in Disarray: American Foreign Policy and the Crisis of the Old Order, this volume sometimes tries to cover too much in too little space, but its equally timely and informed, providing an important overview of the dynamics in an increasingly interconnected and fragmented planet. In his prescient 2012 book, Time to Start Thinking: America in the Age of Descent, Luce uncannily anticipated the politics of resentment and the bitter fights over immigration that would fuel Brexit and last years American election. And in this new book, he lucidly expounds on the erosion of the Wests middle classes, the dysfunction among its political and economic elites and the consequences for America and the world.
British police this weekend released new photos of the devastation caused by the Grenfell Tower fire that is presumed to have killed at least 58. The death toll is expected to rise even further.

In this photo released by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday, June 18, 2017, a view of an apartment in the Grenfell Tower after fire engulfed the 24-storey building, in London. (AP)

By India Today Web Desk: The British Metropolitan Police on Sunday released new images from inside the Grenfell Tower, which was gutted in a massive fire last week.

One photo shows a burnt-out elevator on an undisclosed floor of the public housing project that was ravaged in Wednesday's inferno, while another shows an apartment that was reduced to rubble and white ash.

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Police also said that the number of people missing and assumed dead had risen from the previously official toll of 58. An updated figure is expected to be announced today.

Click here to Enlarge In this photo released by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday, June 18, 2017, a firefighter stands outside of the Grenfell Tower after fire engulfed the 24-storey building, in London. (AP)

The devastating fire erupted in the early hours of June 14 trapping several sleeping residents at the 24-storey Grenfell tower.

More than 200 firefighters and 40 fire trucks were involved in operations to douse the blaze, which last for several hours.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday said that the response to the disaster had not been "not good enough" as she battled critics who targetted her post-election fragile government over the tragedy.

May and her ministers have said they will do all they can to help those left homeless after the blaze and make sure other high-rise buildings, usually home to poorer people, are checked and safe.

Click here to Enlarge In this photo released by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday, June 18, 2017, burnt out lifts on an undisclosed floor, in the Grenfell Tower after fire engulfed the 24-storey building, in London. (AP)

May also said that a public inquiry that is looking into the Grenfell Fire will report directly to her and that she has asked for daily updates from the neighbourhood to be sent to her.

Controversy is also erupting over the Grenfell Tower's exterior cladding, with two British ministers saying the cladding used in a recent renovation may have been banned under UK building regulations.

Experts believe the exterior cladding, which contained insulation, helped spread the flames quickly along the outside of the tower in the June 14 blaze.

The government has said it is carrying out an "urgent inspection" of roughly 2,500 similar tower blocks across the country to assess their safety.

An older photo from the Grenfell Tower fire site shows firemen examining the gutted building. (AP) Click here to Enlarge An older photo from the Grenfell Tower fire site shows firemen examining the gutted building. (AP)

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(With inputs from agencies)

ALSO READ | London tower fire: Baby dropped from 10th floor caught by man on ground

ALSO WATCH | London fire: Massive flame engulfs Grenfell Tower, 200 firefighters at the spot

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The iPhone is designed for maximum efficiency and compactness. The One Device isnt. The three chapters on the development of the iPhone are the heart of the book, but theres some filler too. Its curiously unilluminating to read a metallurgical analysis of a pulverized iPhone, or to watch Merchant trudge around the globe on a kind of iCalvary in search of the raw materials Apple uses  through a Stygian Bolivian tin mine and a lithium mine in the Chilean desert and an e-waste dump in Nairobi where many iPhones end up. This kind of hacker tourism can be done well  the gold standard is Neal Stephensons epic 1996 Wired article Mother Earth Mother Board.

His one conspicuous success in this line is his visit to a Foxconn factory outside Shenzhen, China, where iPhones are manufactured. Foxconn has a reputation for bad labor conditions, and visiting Westerners are generally closely chaperoned, but during a trip to the bathroom Merchant manages to ditch his minders and take a stroll through the vast, dystopian facility. It is factories all the way down, he writes, a million consumer electronics being threaded together in identically drab monoliths. You feel tiny among them, like a brief spit of organic matter between aircraft-carrier-size engines of industry. Its a palpable glimpse of the way the iPhone has, like a shiny glossy virus, physically reshaped the world to produce copies of itself.

Merchant also tells the origin stories of the technologies that converged into the iPhone: Gorilla Glass, motion sensors, lithium-ion batteries, ARM chips, wireless technology and so on. He shows how many peoples work went into the creation of the iPhone, as a counterweight to the myth of the lone inventor  the notion that after countless hours of toiling, one man can conjure up an invention that changes the course of history. The lone inventor starts showing his straw stuffing after a couple of paragraphs, but Merchant spends entire chapters chatting with people like Mitsuaki Oshima, the father of image stabilization. Oshima undoubtedly has hidden depths, but as an interviewer Merchant is powerless to reveal them. (Even with a shake of the camera, the image did not blur at all. It was too good to be true! etc.)

Even worse is Merchants ghastly time-traveling habit. In order to talk about magnetometers we first have to sit still for a history lesson (compasses can be traced back at least as far as the Han dynasty, around 206 B.C.). To get to assembly-line production, a concept with which most readers are already pretty familiar, we have to slog back to the Pleistocene Era (Homo erectus, which emerged 1.7 million years ago, were the first species to widely adopt tools.). And so on. The origin of this kind of writing can be traced back at least as far as the Undergraduate Era, to those leaden essays that begin, Since the dawn of time, mankind has wondered.

But when he gets back to the actual iPhones creation, Merchant tells a far richer story than I  having covered Apple for years as a journalist  have seen before. If youve ever worked on a hopeless project that felt like it was going nowhere, you will draw spiritual strength from Merchants account of life in the Purple trenches. It includes fascinating dead ends and might-have- beens (a prototype based on the original iPods click wheel, backlit in blue and orange); personal sacrifices (The iPhone is the reason Im divorced); obscure technical hurdles (the phones infrared proximity sensor, which turns the screen off when its near your head, wouldnt recognize dark hair); backstage tension at the launch (I was actually there, watching Jobs rehearse the famous iPhone keynote, but apparently missed everything); even a symbolic onstage assassination (when Jobs publicly demonstrated swiping to delete a contact, he used Apple vice president Tony Fadells name, foreshadowing Fadells imminent departure).

The iPhone masquerades as a thing not made by human hands. Merchants book makes visible that human labor, and in the process dispels some of the fog and reality distortion that surround the iPhone. The One Device isnt definitive, but its a start. What we need is the critical equivalent of a Pentalobe, a book that will crack open the meaning of the iPhone, to properly interrogate this digital symbiont, or parasite, that has introduced new kinds of both connection and disconnection into our lives. If the iPhone was a revolution, who or what exactly was overthrown? One of the stories Merchant tells comes from Grignon, who was the first person to receive a call on the iPhone. The punch line is that he didnt pick up. Instead of being this awesome Alexander Graham Bell moment, it was just like, Yeah, go to voice mail, Grignon says. I think its very apropos, given where we are now.
(Want to get this briefing by email? Heres the sign-up.)

Good morning.

Heres what you need to know:

 London is hit again.

The authorities are treating an attack near a mosque early today as an act of terrorism, raising the specter of retaliation after several deadly assaults attributed to Islamist extremists.

One man was found dead at the scene after a van drove into pedestrians, although the police said it was too early to say if he had been killed in the attack, which injured 10 other people. The driver was arrested.

Its another challenge for Prime Minister Theresa May: Negotiations over Britains exit from the European Union are to begin today, and the national government has taken control of the response to a deadly fire at a high rise last week.
1. Russia threatened to target U.S. aircraft in Syrian airspace, raising the possibility of direct conflict between the two, which back different sides in the Syrian war.

The warning came after a U.S. fighter shot down a Syrian warplane for the first time. Above, an offensive against the Islamic State by U.S.-backed fighters in Raqqa.
Even though most of the transactions took place outside the United States, the money laundering statute can be violated by an offense against a foreign nation, including bribery, misappropriation or embezzlement in that country. The only requirement is that the proceeds of those crimes pass into or through the United States for the purpose of concealing the source or ownership of the assets. Buying property and jewelry, or even movie rights, can constitute money laundering, so those assets can be seized if the Justice Department can show the transactions hid the source of the funds.

A property owner can fight an asset forfeiture claim by offering an innocent owner defense. This provision was adopted in 2000 as part of the Comprehensive Asset Forfeiture Reform Act to curb abuses in how the federal government seized assets without affording claimants a reasonable opportunity to assert their ownership. The defense requires the person to show that he or she did not know about the criminal conduct that led to the forfeiture action, or did all that reasonably could be expected under the circumstances to terminate such use of the property.

A crucial limitation on this defense is that if the person acquired the property after the illegal conduct, then that person must be a bona fide purchaser or seller for value to avoid forfeiture. If it was received as a gift, rather than being bought or sold in an ordinary transaction, then the person can be compelled to turn it over to the government, regardless of whether the recipient knew how it was acquired. So the adage that possession is nine-tenths of the law does not apply here.

The complaint identifies gifts given to Leonardo DiCaprio by Jho Low and Riza Aziz, Mr. Najibs stepson, who set up the movie production company Red Granite Pictures with 1MDB funds. Among the gifts to Mr. DiCaprio, who starred in The Wolf of Wall Street, which Red Granite financed, were a collage by Jean-Michel Basquiat valued at $9.2 million, a Picasso painting worth $3.2 million and the Oscar statuette won by Marlon Brando in 1955.

The complaint also seeks the return of an 11.72-carat diamond given by Mr. Low to his girlfriend at the time, who has been identified as the prominent Australian model Miranda Kerr.

Mr. DiCaprio has returned the gifts, perhaps because he had no basis to claim he was an innocent owner to resist the governments effort to seize them.

Banks in the United States are at the center of the global financial system, and most foreign banks have a correspondent relationship with an American bank so that they can do business in this country. It would be difficult to avoid having the proceeds of illegal activity touch the United States in some way, which is one reason the Justice Department set up a kleptocracy team in the money laundering and asset recovery section of the criminal division to pursue these cases.
The price of Bitcoin has hit record highs in recent months, more than doubling in price since the start of the year. Despite these gains, Bitcoin is on the verge of losing its position as the dominant virtual currency.

The value of Ether, the digital money that lives on an upstart network known as Ethereum, has risen an eye-popping 4,500 percent since the beginning of the year.

With the recent price increases, the outstanding units of the Ether currency were worth around $34 billion as of Monday  or 82 percent as much as all the Bitcoin in existence. At the beginning of the year, Ether was only about 5 percent as valuable as Bitcoin.

The sudden rise of Ethereum highlights how volatile the bewildering world of virtual currency remains, where lines of computer code can be spun into billions of dollars in a matter of months.
Were following major market developments throughout the day.

Activist Investor Takes Aim at Parent of Saks

An activist hedge fund, Land and Buildings Investment Management, disclosed a 4.3 percent stake in the owner of Saks Fifth Avenue on Monday and called on the retailer to weigh selling its real estate or taking the company private.

In a public letter to the Hudsons Bay Company, Land and Buildings said that the company should regard itself more an owner of valuable real estate like Sakss well-known Fifth Avenue store and take steps to consider selling some of that land for top dollar. Or, the activist fund suggested, management should buy out other shareholders.

Hudsons Bay said in its own statement that it had received the letter and would respond at some point.
What is the review about?

Two politically independent British regulators  the Office of Communications, or Ofcom, and the Competition and Markets Authority  were asked by the government to review 21st Century Foxs proposed takeover of Sky soon after the deal was announced in December.

Much of the focus has centered on Ofcoms investigation. It looked at whether the takeover would limit the types of media access British consumers would have and whether 21st Century Fox executives met the countrys broadcasting standards.

In a separate but connected review, the regulator also determined if 21st Century Foxs management, particularly James Murdoch, were fit and proper to retain Skys broadcasting licenses. Ofcom will publish details of its ruling by June 29.

The fit and proper point represents a possible stumbling block for 21st Century Fox. When the company tried to acquire Sky in 2010, Ofcom criticized James Murdochs handling of a phone hacking scandal at The News of the World, a British newspaper  since shuttered  that was then part of News Corporation, a predecessor to 21st Century Fox. While the regulator said that James Murdochs actions fell short, he was cleared and Sky ultimately was deemed fit and proper in that review.

Now, 21st Century Fox is grappling with the aftermath of a sexual harassment scandal at Fox News. Regulators at Ofcom have met with lawyers who represented several of the accusers as well as one woman who made sexual harassment allegations against Mr. OReilly. These meetings have raised questions about whether Ofcom would take into account the allegations, and the companys handling of them, in its judgment on whether the company passes the fit and proper test.

21st Century Fox has said in a statement about the scandal that it had taken prompt and decisive action and had overhauled the leadership and management at Fox News.

Analysts say there are four possible outcomes.

Ofcom may give its unconditional backing to the takeover, or recommend that the government block the deal, both of which are considered unlikely. It could recommend that 21st Century Fox make concessions, such as guaranteeing the independence of Sky News, the British news organization owned by Sky. Or the authorities may call for a more in-depth review by Britains competition authority, extending the outcome until the autumn.
Stephen Barth, a lawyer and professor of hospitality law at the University of Houston, said difficulties often arose from incidents abroad because the legal responsibilities were not clear, even to experts. Workers compensation laws in the United States do not always protect employees once they leave the country, unlike in Britain, where the Corporate Manslaughter Act clarifies the responsibility of employers if an employee is put in harms way, he said.

At a recent Global Travel Risk Summit in Chicago, a series of programs were aimed at helping organizations develop safe travel policies. In one, teams of travel managers played out dealing with hypothetical disruptions, like the right time to evacuate during a tsunami, the legal ramifications when an employee becomes paralyzed in a serious crash while using a shared car service or what to do if an employee is kidnapped.

Mr. Barth is the founder of HospitalityLawyer.com, which provides legal, safety and security resources for the industry and sponsored the meeting with the BTN Group, a business travel research firm. He said many travelers thought risks involved only extreme situations and did not realize that everyday occurrences could be just as deadly. After a traveler has flown all night with little or no sleep, having to drive on a different side of the street than in the home country is very high risk, he said.

Many problems can be prevented or managed with minor precautions, like learning about a foreign country in advance and obtaining travel insurance coverage.

There has been a steady increase since 2012 in the number of Americans buying insurance for international trips, for emergency medical care, medical evacuation and repatriation in the case of a political event or act of God, according to the travel insurance comparison website Squaremouth. But many still do not realize the need, experts say.

Its a misconception that credit cards will cover most medical needs abroad, said Chris Carnicelli, chief executive of Generali Global Assistance. For many travelers, he added, buying supplemental coverage has not been top of mind.
On a flight out of Shanghai, the pilot of a United States airline radioed air traffic control seeking a higher altitude. But, said the pilot, Jim Karsh, he could not understand the controllers reply.

We tried six, seven, eight times to have him repeat, Mr. Karsh said, then we canceled our request.

Mr. Karsh and other airline pilots say that understanding controllers who work in Chinese airspace can often be difficult. The amount of English they speak is geared solely to controller lingo, he said. Turn right to a heading of X, climb to flight level X.

Even the basics can be hard to understand, and if you stray out of the very rudimentary A.T.C. language box, they will not know what you are talking about, Mr. Karsh said, referring to air traffic control terminology.
Their invention, made by Prytime Medical and cleared by the Food and Drug Administration in 2015, is gradually being adopted in civilian trauma centers around the country and has recently been used by the military. But medical teams need rigorous training to use it: Mishandled, it can be dangerous.

Dr. Bukur punctured Ms. Williamss thigh, threaded a slim tube into her femoral artery and eased it up about 12 inches into her aorta, the major artery that carries blood from the heart to most of the body. Then he injected salt water to inflate a balloon near the tip of the tube, blocking the aorta and cutting off circulation to Ms. Williamss pelvis and legs. Above the balloon, blood still flowed normally to her brain, heart, lungs and other vital organs.

Almost instantly, her blood pressure rose and her racing heart slowed down. The balloon stopped the hemorrhaging inside her pelvis, almost like turning off a faucet. Reboa stands for resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, but some doctors describe it simply as an internal tourniquet.

The clock was ticking. Circulation could be safely cut off for only so long  ideally, no more than about 30 minutes. Beyond that, the lack of blood flow could severely damage Ms. Williamss legs and internal organs. The balloon had only bought the medical team a bit of time to find the source of the blood loss and fix it. If they failed, when they deflated the balloon they would be back where they started, with Ms. Williams on the verge of bleeding to death.

Image Jessica Ann Williams in her high school yearbook picture.

In New York City, Dr. Sheldon H. Teperman, director of trauma and critical care services at NYC Health & Hospitals/Jacobi, and Dr. Aksim G. Rivera, a vascular surgeon there, have been teaching the procedure to trauma surgeons at city hospitals and other medical centers in the area. Bellevue surgeons trained with them.
A 54-year-old farmer took his life today in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore - Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's home district. Family members said he was depressed because he couldn't pay back moneylenders and banks around Rs 8 lakh.

By Hemender Sharma: A 54-year-old farmer committed suicide today by hanging himself at his farm in Jamunia Khurd village in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's home district.

This is the third farmer suicide in Sehore - and the fourteenth in Madhya Pradesh - since June 6, when farmers began to stage violent protests in Mandsaur.

Bansi Lal, the farmer who died today, had been depressed for the last few days as he was unable to repay loans that he owed to banks and money lenders, his family members said. He owed around Rs 8 lakh.

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Another farmer, 25-year-old Murlidhar from Harda district, attempted to end his life by consuming poison early this morning. His family members rushed him to a hospital, where he's fighting for his life.

On Sunday, 60-year-old Pyare Lal hanged himself at his farm in Neemuch district. His family members say he was depressed after he was unable to repay a Rs 2.5 lakh loan that he owed to a private bank.

'NOT EVERY SUICIDE IS RELATED TO A DEBT TRAP'

Until now, the Shivraj Singh Chouhan administration has refused to accept that the 14 suicides committed by farmers since June 6 were related to agricultural issues or debt.

Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Bhupendra Singh says only four farmer suicides were caused by debt-related issues in the past year.

"Suicides are committed for various reasons, not every suicide is related to a debt trap. The real cause behind these suicides have to be investigated," Singh told India Today, after one such suicide was reported.

However, farmer leader Shivkumar Sharma - or 'Kakaji' - blamed CM Chouhan and Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for the suicides.

"The farmers in Madhya Pradesh are facing a crisis. They are caught in a debt trap. They had a lot of expectations from the agitation as they hoped we would succeed in getting a loan waiver, but Shivraj says it is not an issue - while Jaitley has said that the Centre will not finance a loan waiver. So the farmers have nowhere to go and are committing suicide," he said.

ALSO READ | Madhya Pradesh: Another debt-ridden farmer commits suicide; eleventh in a week

ALSO READ | Farmers will fire bullets at government under our leadership: Madhya Pradesh Congress leader

ALSO WATCH | Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh Chouhan meets families of farmers in Mandsaur

--- ENDS ---
By now, it has been well established that Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio diverge on many issues, leading to sharp words over who is to blame for subway delays, competing plans for financing affordable housing and even a disagreement over saving a beloved white-tailed deer.

But even on an issue that they do agree on, the governor and the mayor still cannot seem to get in sync. Take an unexciting, but important, streamlined approach to designing and building infrastructure that can save time and money.

Mr. Cuomo and Mr. de Blasio both embrace it. But in separate efforts this year, the two leaders have tried and failed to persuade state lawmakers in Albany to authorize a broad expansion of this design-build approach, which bundles together the design and construction phases of a project instead of carrying them out separately. A 2011 state law authorized design-build for only five state agencies and authorities.

Mr. Cuomo had proposed expanding that design-build authority to all state agencies and counties  except for New York City  in his executive budget in January. State lawmakers agreed to renew it only for the state entities that already had it and to extend its use to eight specific state building projects, including a theme park and a state police forensic laboratory.
Just 15 days after being released from prison, a ubiquitous forger started selling phony art again, the authorities said.

The convicted forger, Vincent Lopreto, was arrested last week in a scheme to sell $400,000 worth of fake Damien Hirst prints to Manhattan residents and international buyers, a Manhattan prosecutor said. Mr. Lopreto, 65, had served nearly two years in prison after pleading guilty in 2013 to a similar scheme.

On Monday, he pleaded not guilty to five counts of grand larceny, two counts of attempted grand larceny and four counts of scheme to defraud at his arraignment in State Supreme Court in Manhattan.

Mr. Lopreto was arrested in New Orleans on June 14 after investigators found four counterfeit pieces and a printer ideal for art reproduction in Mr. Lopretos residence, said Jaime Hickey-Mendoza, an assistant district attorney in Manhattan.
Alanis Morissettes Jagged Little Pill, which just had its 22nd anniversary, is not only one of the landmark albums of the 90s; it has proved evergreen even as time has left other albums of similar aesthetic and acclaim behind. A musical based on the album  which has been in the works since 2013  is slated to open at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Mass., in May 2018, with an eye toward Broadway.

The musical that pulls from pop culture is having a moment. Of course, Hamilton stands out, but there are other examples: A musical based on the 1991 novel American Psycho made its Broadway debut in 2016, along with a musical scored by the pop star Sara Bareilles and based on the 2007 film Waitress. The pop-culture musical feels like it is reaching a peak of popularity as a vehicle for both cultural commentary and emotional escape, and so adapting Jagged Little Pill into a musical feels smart, though its execution remains up in the air.

Too often, Jagged Little Pill is discussed only in terms of its bitterness and aggression  something that, I imagine, wouldnt be so common if the album had been recorded by a man. The album was acclaimed upon its release  and remains so today  but even the most glowing praise still reduced Ms. Morissettes work to its harshest emotions, and labeled them surprising. This flattening out of the albums story does something that is still all too common: It reduces a womans emotions to the ones that are easiest for men to dismiss. In 2017, too many Americans still react with confusion and alarm to a woman who steers a conversation on her own terms. During Attorney General Jeff Sessionss testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee on Tuesday, Senator Kamala Harris, Democrat of California, was consistently interrupted and talked over, and Mr. Sessions told her that she was making him nervous while she looked him in the eyes, unmoving.

There are men in the narrative of Jagged Little Pill, but whats thrilling about the album, especially today, is that Ms. Morissette seems so uninterested in bowing to their presence. To label Pill a breakup album is shortsighted, despite how it navigates the nuances of closure in a relationship. Ms. Morissette is, largely, not facing an ex, but facing away from him and looking to new endeavors, both romantic and mundane. Pill is not only an album of breaking, but also one of rebuilding, of finding a sliver of hope and stretching it beyond its limits. Every emotion is its own moving part that almost becomes a character: The sadness is a breathing, moving thing. The anger is a cloud that sits thick in the sky and then parts just in time for a little joy to leak through, and then the joy dances. It is an album of impeccable balance. I listen to the songs and realize that I have both felt this way and feared making anyone feel this way about me.
To the Editor:

Re Erdogans Guards Will Be Charged in Beating of Protesters, U.S. Officials Say (news article, June 15): The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said the greatness of America is the right to protest for right. We in the nations capital concur. All people  whether wearing a pink hat on a Saturday in January or standing outside of an embassy on a spring day  should be able to peacefully assemble and have their voices heard.

On Thursday, my administration announced that 18 individuals, including 12 members of the Turkish security detail, have been charged or are facing charges stemming from a vicious physical altercation that occurred during a peaceful protest outside the Turkish ambassadors residence in Washington on May 16.

By issuing arrest warrants for the 12 Turkish government agents involved in the brutal and unprovoked attack, we send a clear and unambiguous message that no one  not even the security force of a foreign leader  is above the law.

The actions of those Turkish security officials and their supporters were a reprehensible attack on a core American value: the right to assemble and protest peacefully. While brutal attacks against peaceful demonstrators may be tolerated in authoritarian countries, they will not be tolerated in the United States. My administration will continue to work with our federal partners and do all we can to assist in bringing these individuals to justice.
The problem with American health care is not the care. Its the insurance.

Both parties have stumbled to enact comprehensive health care reform because they insist on patching up a rickety, malfunctioning model. The insurance company model drives up prices and fragments care. Rather than rejecting this jerry-built structure, the Democrats Obamacare legislation simply added a cracked support beam or two. The Republican bill will knock those out to focus on spackling other dilapidated parts of the system.

An alternative structure can be found in the early decades of the 20th century, when the medical marketplace offered a variety of models. Unions, businesses, consumer cooperatives and ethnic and African-American mutual aid societies had diverse ways of organizing and paying for medical care.

Physicians established a particularly elegant model: the prepaid doctor group. Unlike todays physician practices, these groups usually staffed a variety of specialists, including general practitioners, surgeons and obstetricians. Patients received integrated care in one location, with group physicians from across specialties meeting regularly to review treatment options for their chronically ill or hard-to-treat patients.

Individuals and families paid a monthly fee, not to an insurance company but directly to the physician group. This system held down costs. Physicians typically earned a base salary plus a percentage of the groups quarterly profits, so they lacked incentive to either ration care, which would lose them paying patients, or provide unnecessary care.
Two weeks ago, the American military finally acknowledged what nongovernmental monitoring groups had claimed for months: The United States-led coalition fighting the Islamic State since August 2014 has been killing Iraqi and Syrian civilians at astounding rates in the four months since President Trump assumed office. The result has been a staggering loss of civilian life, as the head of the United Nations independent Commission of Inquiry into the Syrian civil war said last week.

At least 484 civilians have been unintentionally killed by coalition strikes, the United States Central Command, or Centcom, the military command responsible for the Middle East, said in a June 2 statement. Four months earlier, Centcom had said at least 199 civilians had been killed up to that point in the bombing campaign. Estimates by independent monitors are much higher. Airwars, a watchdog group, says coalition airstrikes have killed nearly 4,000 civilians.

The civilian death toll has risen mainly because the battle has moved deeper into major cities. But even as the civilian death toll ticks upward, the American military has relaxed oversight, investigation and accountability on civilian casualties. Finding out the reasons for these tragic mistakes, seeing what can be learned from them and enforcing the American militarys own standards could save thousands of lives.

Mr. Trump has given the military total authorization to decide how, and how much, force will be used, authority that was more closely held by the Obama White House. But Secretary of Defense James Mattis insisted on May 28 that the rules of engagement have not changed. There is no relaxation of our intention to protect the innocent, he said.
TRIPOLI, Libya  For years now, opportunists of all stripes, local and international, have tried to profit from Libyas seemingly endless instability by disrupting its oil production.

The latest incident was triggered by the recent, sudden souring of relations between Qatar on the one hand and Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain on the other. One of the several groups that purport to be Libyas rightful government is using that dispute as a pretext to seize control of the countrys oil and gas exports: It has accused the National Oil Corporation, the internationally recognized body responsible for managing these resources, of working in the service of Qatar by diverting oil revenues to it via an N.O.C. customer.

I am the N.O.C.s chairman, and these allegations are false. But they shine a bright light on Libyas current tragedy. Since the revolution of 2011, the countrys oil and gas resources have been held hostage to both its fractious politics and power struggles in the Middle East.

State institutions have been devastated since 2011. Two camps claim to constitute the countrys legitimate leadership. One, based in Tripoli, is backed by Western governments, Turkey and Qatar; the other, based in the eastern city of Tobruk, is backed by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Russia.
Zombies have long ruled the Republican Party. The good news is that they may finally be losing their grip  although they may still return and resume eating conservative brains. The bad news is that even if zombies are in retreat, vampires are taking their place.

What are these zombies of which I speak? Among wonks, the term refers to policy ideas that should have been abandoned long ago in the face of evidence and experience, but just keep shambling along.

The rights zombie-in-chief is the insistence that low taxes on the rich are the key to prosperity. This doctrine should have died when Bill Clintons tax hike failed to cause the predicted recession and was followed instead by an economic boom. It should have died again when George W. Bushs tax cuts were followed by lackluster growth, then a crash. And it should have died yet again in the aftermath of the 2013 Obama tax hike  partly expiration of some Bush tax cuts, partly new taxes to pay for Obamacare  when the economy continued jogging along, adding 200,000 jobs a month.

Despite the consistent wrongness of their predictions, however, tax-cut fanatics just kept gaining influence in the G.O.P.  until the disaster in Kansas, where Gov. Sam Brownback promised that deep tax cuts would yield an economic miracle. What the state got instead was weak growth and a fiscal crisis, finally pushing even Republicans to vote for tax hikes, overruling Brownbacks veto.
Even sophisticated observers admit to confusion and consternation about the Middle East, where rivalries and jealousies among nations have reached new levels of complication. Saudi Arabia and some of its neighbors decide to punish Qatar and some of its citizens, ostensibly for fostering and financing Islamist terrorism. But Saudi Arabia itself has been accused of underwriting extremists. No matter: President Trump, captivated by Saudi royalty, sides with the Saudis  even though the United States has two important bases in Qatar.

Baffling, right? But here is one clear bottom line: The biggest loser in all this may turn out to be the fight against the Islamic State. Nobody likes ISIS. Yet the idea of a united front among Gulf states against the terrorist group has all but evaporated, and hypocrisies and contradictions abound. Heres a primer on some of the main players.

QATAR This tiny but exceedingly wealthy country definitely has a mixed record. But is it a colossal threat? Last week, the United States agreed to sell it $12 billion worth of F-15 jets and two Navy vessels arrived there for joint military exercises. If Qatar were seen as a serious terrorism threat, that wouldnt be happening.

True, Qatar has long been accused of funneling money to the Muslim Brotherhood, a loose and influential political network. The Brotherhood has officially forsworn violence. Yet Saudi Arabia, whose royal rulers fear Islamist populism, still brands it a terrorist outfit.
Bhargava while addressing a public meeting at Mohli village inside the sanctuary had said that forest staff cannot stop villagers from collecting minor forest produce.

By Rahul Noronha: A lady IFS officer in Madhya Pradesh has written to her immediate boss, accusing State Minister for Rural Development Gopal Bhargava of making inflammatory statements against forest department staff and has also held him responsible for increasing attacks on them.

In a letter written to Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Sagar, Vasu Kanojia, an IFS officer posted as Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in charge of the Nauradehi sanctuary has said that ever since Gopal Bhargava made remarks instigating village residents to enter the Nauradehi sanctuary to collect minor forest produce, the staff working with her has written to her expressing their inability to discharge their duties.

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As per the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, minor forest produce cannot be collected from sanctuaries and national parks.

MINISTER INSTIGATED VILLAGERS

Bhargava, a veteran BJP leader who represents Rehli constituency and has never lost an election since 1985 while addressing a public meeting at Mohli village inside the sanctuary had said that forest staff cannot stop villagers from collecting minor forest produce (MFP). He said that he is not advocating cutting of timber but if staff were to stop villagers from collecting tendu patta or achaar, a type of MFP, they should break the hands of the forest staff.

DFO, Vasu Kanojia in her letter to the CCF has also said that she received a letter from her subordinates who told her that large groups of people enter the sanctuary threatening them and that they were unable to discharge their duties after the minister's threats.

In the letter, the staff has cited an attack on a forest staffer by timber smugglers and a couple of other incidents in which those found breaking the law had minister's threats in their support.

Earlier, the DFO had written to President of the IFS Association LM Belwal informing him that the minister had referred to her as 'bai' in his speech while instigating the villagers.

Also read: Another farmer suicide in Madhya Pradesh CM Chouhan's home district Sehore; third since June 6

Also read: How Madhya Pradesh farmers agitation is testing CM Shivraj Chouhan's kisan putra image and his agri track record

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This seemed like an acknowledgment that he was indeed under investigation. But on Sunday, the Trump lawyer Jay Sekulow made the talk show rounds to insist that what the president wrote was not what the president meant. Sekulow stated emphatically, The fact of the matter is the president has not been and is not under investigation.

Whatever the truth may be, Trump is certainly behaving like a man who is under scrutiny and like one who is determined to defend himself every step of the way.

Image

Last week it was reported that Mueller hired more than a dozen lawyers for his team, but as soon as he did, they came under attack by Trump cronies like Newt Gingrich. On Sunday on ABC, Gingrich issued a blistering attack on some of the lawyers Mueller has hired, suggesting Mueller stacked the deck with Democratic mercenaries out to get the president for political reasons.

At one point in the interview, Gingrich claimed:

You tell me why the first four names that came up, I dont know about the next nine, the first four names are all people who gave to Democrats. Two of them are people with a record of hiding evidence from the defense. And one of them is a person who defended the Clinton Foundation. Now in this environment with a Justice Department where 97 percent of the donations last year went to Hillary, 97 percent, explain to me why I should relax as a Republican.
Tweeting first and asking questions later is not a good way to make policy  especially in the Middle East. In a recent salvo, President Donald J. Trump took credit for a decision by one set of American partners  Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates  to sever relations with another, Qatar. It risks deepening a spat that could undermine the fight against the Islamic State. And it highlights the fragility of a proposed Middle Eastern alliance that Mr. Trump touted as the major achievement of his first foreign trip.

These countries have long been at odds over Qatars relationships with Iran, the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas. Qatar fancies itself a bridge to all three; however objectionable their conduct, they are not going away and need to be engaged. The Saudis, Emiratis and Egyptians see Qatar as an enabler of extremists, providing them financial support, political backing or the regions most powerful megaphone, the Al Jazeera television network. They also resent tiny Qatar  empowered by staggering natural gas resources  asserting itself in regional affairs and cheerleading the Arab Spring.

Until now, Washington has avoided taking sides, while quietly pressing Qatar to stop financing extremist groups. Qatar hosts one of the most important United States air bases in the Middle East: Al Udeid, home to about 11,000 service members in the anti-Islamic State coalition, most of them American. Coalition planes flying from that base lead the air campaign to defeat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Speaking in Saudi Arabia last month, Mr. Trump called Qatar a crucial strategic partner.
To the Editor:

The Trump administration should be pressed hard to explain how it is consistent to oppose improved relations with Cuba while promoting improved relations with Russia. Is one type of oppressive regime better than the other? For President Trump, the answer is obviously yes. Mr. Trump seems to hate oppressive regimes that convert private property into public goods for the benefit of the people, but he loves oppressive regimes that convert public goods into private property for the benefit of a few rich friends.

STEPHEN GILLESPIE

SAN FRANCISCO

To the Editor:

Kudos to President Trump for demanding that Cuba finally turn over a parade of criminals who have sought sanctuary on the Communist island for decades. Finally we have a titanium-spined president who isnt afraid to use Americas military and economic might as leverage over these tin-pot dictators who under previous administrations made us the laughingstock of the world.

Like him or not, Mr. Trumps election was a seismic game-changer for Americas foreign and domestic policy, and I believe that it would be catastrophic if we were to go back to the way it was pre-Trump.

EUGENE R. DUNN, MEDFORD, N.Y.

To the Editor:

As one of the 600,000 American tourists who visited Cuba in 2016, I can attest to the positive changes that President Barack Obamas lifting of travel and diplomatic restrictions has had for countless ordinary Cubans. The contrast between what I observed in a previous trip to Cuba in 1978 and last year was dramatic.

The difference could be seen in the satisfaction of the elderly woman who has transformed her humble home into a B&B, the entrepreneurial energy of the 30-somethings who are building their tour guide business, and the joy in the eyes of a young gay couple now free to pursue their dreams openly. Fidel Castro has died, his brother Raul is to retire in 2018, and a more pragmatic successor is in the wings.
After a second attempted putsch, known as the July Days, Lenin and 10 other Bolsheviks were charged with treason and organized armed rebellion. Scores of witnesses came forward to testify about wire transfers from Stockholm, money-laundering via a German import business, the German financing of the Bolshevik newspaper Pravda (including editions aimed at front-line troops), the going rates for holding up Bolshevik placards in street protests (10 rubles) or for fighting in the Red Guards (40 rubles per day). While Lenin fled to Finland, most of his comrades were arrested. The stage was set for a spectacular show trial.

It was not to be. Just as the provisional governments case was buttressed in late August 1917 with the testimony of the police agents who had raided Lenins headquarters, its prime minister, Alexander Kerensky, granted amnesty to most of the arrested Bolsheviks (though not Lenin) in order to enlist their support against a general, Lavr Kornilov, whom Kerensky believed was plotting a right-wing military coup. In a shortsighted move, Kerensky allowed the Bolshevik military organization to rearm, thus acquiring the weapons they would use to oust him two months later.

Lenin, with wanted posters for his arrest plastered all over Russia on the eve of the October Revolution, did not miss his chance. Once Lenin was in power, far from showing caution in relations with his alleged German paymasters, one of his first acts was to send a cable to German military headquarters on the eastern front, offering an unconditional cease-fire. When the harsh terms of the resulting treaty of Brest-Litovsk were announced in Petrograds Tauride Palace in 1918  terms that included detaching Ukraine and the Baltic States from Russia  Lenin was greeted with shouts of Down with the traitor! and Judas! and German spy!

So was Lenin a German agent?

In his own mind, Lenin could and did justify his actions as tactical maneuvers serving the higher cause of Communism, not the sordid war aims of the German Imperial Government. Fair enough. But it is hard to imagine this defense holding up at trial, if the jury were composed of ordinary Russians while the war was still going on. The evidence assembled by Kerenskys justice department, much of which has only recently been rediscovered in the Russian archives, was damning. No matter Lenins real intentions, it is undeniable that he received German logistical and financial support in 1917, and that his actions, from antiwar agitation in the Russian armies to his request for an unconditional cease-fire, served the interests of Russias wartime enemy in Berlin. They also brought about disastrous consequences for Russia herself, from territorial dismemberment in 1918 to decades of agony under the suffocating Bolshevik dictatorship.

The Russian Revolution inaugurated a new era in foreign influence operations. Lenin himself helped to found the Communist International, which for nearly a quarter of a century was dedicated to trying to topple capitalist governments around the world. The Nazis played a similar game in Austria and Czechoslovakia in 1938, only to abandon the pretense of influence-peddling for brute force when, along with the Soviet Red Army from the east, they invaded Poland from the west in 1939. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union and the United States turned Revolutionierungspolitik into an art form, striving to undermine one anothers allies and satellite states by all manner of subterfuge and subversion.

Today, it appears that a new round of the Cold War has emerged, though with a different ideological flavor, as the Kremlin promotes populist nationalism in Europe and the United States, even as Western leaders and democracy activists mobilize opposition against Russia and Putin-friendly regimes, such as Viktor Orbans in Hungary  which then crack down on such activists as foreign agents. Revolutionierungspolitik has gone global.
Azam Ahmed: One morning earlier this year, I got a call from Mario E. Patron, a prominent human rights lawyer in Mexico. He wanted to talk in person. When he arrived at The New York Timess Mexico bureau, he took a seat in the conference room and asked me for my phone. He then collected the phones of everyone else in the room, walked them outside and placed them in our lobby. Out of earshot. Our phones are being monitored, he told me.

Mr. Patron went on to explain that he and two other lawyers on his staff at Centro Prodh, including the one representing the families of 43 students missing from a teachers college in Ayotzinapa, had been targeted by highly sophisticated spyware that could take over a cellphone, including the microphone. The spyware, known as Pegasus, could monitor calls, emails, calendar appointments and even encrypted messages. It essentially turned a phone into a personal bug.

Mr. Patron then introduced me to Luis Fernando Garcia, a digital rights activist who had been tracking the use of the software against activists, journalists and others. He showed me more cases where he suspected individuals had been targeted. I got suspicious that perhaps others had also been targeted, and went looking myself.

As described in an article published Monday, we found that many people were targeted: anti-corruption academics, journalists and the family members of at least two of those who were targeted, including the teenage son of Carmen Aristegui, one of the countrys most prominent reporters. Nearly every person I interviewed did the same thing Mr. Patron had  moved their phones into a separate location. Carlos Loret de Mola, a well-known journalist, had another approach. He carried some seven cellphones with him at any given time, and used them intermittently to foil any spying attempts.
Background reading:

Mr. Hulse reports on the distrust and concern surrounding the proposed legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act  an overhaul for which there has not been a single hearing nor a formal, open drafting session.

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Another staunch supporter is John Ellis, a veteran CERN theorist and professor at Kings College London, whose office at the lab displays a cardboard skeleton holding a sign implying that this is what happened to the last person who criticized Susy, short for supersymmetry. Obviously Im disappointed Susy didnt show up when the L.H.C. was turned on, he said, adding that there were still plenty of chances for it to show up.

Guido Tonelli, a professor at the University of Pisa in Italy who was one of the leaders of the Higgs hunt, said, For a while we thought we could discover the Higgs and new physics at the same time  that was very exciting. But he said he did not share his colleagues depression that it did not happen: The fact that the Higgs fits the Standard Model means new physics is farther up the energy scale. We know it is there, we just dont know if it is tomorrow or the next decade.

He added, We need to explore; dont be timid.

By the end of 2018, the collider will have logged some 15,000 trillion collisions. If something does not show up by then, Dr. Giudice said, it will be time to go back to the drawing board.

Its a high point of research when we have confusion, he said. Certainly this is a moment of confusion.

Confusion, he explained, means an opportunity for new ideas.

Among the other ideas, Dr. Giudice suggested with a few quick squiggles and scrawls on this blackboard, is that the Higgs mass is fixed not by some deep symmetry principle, but rather by the continuing dynamics of fields and forces. As the universe expands and evolves during the Big Bang, the Higgs field, of which the boson is an expression, undergoes phase transitions, like water turning to ice. At some point, it gets stuck.

What fixes the value of the Higgs is the history of the universe, he said. But that would make the Higgs field unstable over very long time frames  much longer than the age of the universe  and could eventually collapse, dissolving what we think of as reality.

Another possibility, which is anathema to many card-carrying Einsteinians, is that these problematic numbers are due to random chance. There are virtually an infinite number of possible universes with different Higgs masses, but only one that has the capability of a evolving into stars, planets, us.
After deadly terrorist attacks and a nationwide election, Britain is once again focusing on a controversial plan: to regulate the internet.

Lawmakers from across the political spectrum are promoting some of the widest-ranging plans anywhere in the western world to rein in the likes of Google, Facebook and Twitter, setting up a likely standoff.

On one side are British policy makers and law enforcement officials, who want to crack down on how extremist messaging and communication are spread across the internet. On the other are privacy and freedom of speech groups  alongside the tech giants themselves  who say that the governments proposals go too far.

Similar debates are popping up around the world.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation took legal action against Apple last year to force the company to decrypt a suspected terrorists iPhone. American law enforcement eventually used a third-party service to gain access to the smartphone.
A. My grandmother migrated from the Philippines to Hawaii in the 1920s. In those days they were basically required to work the sugarcane fields there before they came to California. My mother grew up as the children of transient framers who moved from crop to crop. My husbands family were also farm workers who became farmers and then pursuant to Executive Order 9066, they were all interned.

His grandmother developed breast cancer at a camp in Colorado and a Japanese doctor performed a double mastectomy. Because there was basically no treatment she died shortly thereafter. His parents have spoken about it more and more as they have gotten older but none of them have any interest in going there and doing a tour. They honor it but they dont want to revisit it.

How has the Trump administration affected the court system?

It doesnt help when there is a narrative about judges being political or that decisions are made on alleged personal biases. It undermines the branch. We follow the rule of law and write out our logic to explain how we got there. To call it personal, biased or results oriented is really not to understand what the judiciary is. To insinuate or directly say that we rule from our personal feelings is really wrong and damaging.

What are the biggest challenges facing the state courts now?

We are chronically underfunded. During the Great Recession we lost at least 40 percent of our budget that weve never recovered. At the same time 6,000 new laws have been passed. Were getting less money, while our trial courts have been more burdened than they ever have before.
MARRIAGE Marriage has given us a sense of safety, she said. No one can invalidate what we have. Our daughter Alice was born shortly before we were married. Since Natalie gave birth before the ruling, I had no parental rights. Because we got married, I was able to legally adopt our daughter.

MARRIAGE LESSON LEARNED Waiting so long to get the same privileges as others has taught us to work hard and fight for our rights. We know marriage is not something to be entered into lightly. It takes work and commitment, and we have a bond that is stronger than any other I have ever known.

Marge Eide, 79, retired, and Ann Sorrell, 80, retired, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Image

RELATIONSHIP The couple, together for almost 45 years, met as players on opposing softball teams. They were married on June 26, 2015, in Ann Arbor.

MARRIAGE While we have never been completely closeted, neither have we been totally out,  Ms. Sorrell said. When Marge was hospitalized recently, I was acknowledged as the next of kin, which had never before been the case. We anticipated some backlash, but so far that hasnt seemed to happen.

MARRIAGE LESSON LEARNED Being legally married is much more significant than we had imagined, not just for the legal protections, but also for our self-esteem and societys acceptance/inclusion, she said. That struck us the first time we saw L.G.B.T. celebrants waving not only the rainbow flags but U.S. flags as well. We gained an even greater appreciation for our relationship, and we feel fortunate that same-sex marriage became a reality in our lifetimes, something we never dared to dream was a possibility.
Mamata's warning comes at a time when there is no end in sight to the stand-off between the GJM and the state administration with the Morcha insisting only on a central government intervention.

By Indrajit Kundu: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday renewed her warning against the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which is spearheading the movement for a separate state of Gorkhaland in Darjeeling.

"They (GJM) are trying to create an ethnic strife in Bengal. This is not right. I don't discriminate between people in the hills and those in the plains. I believe in working together with everyone. They should not play with fire," Banerjee told reporters at the Kolkata airport on Monday morning before leaving for a three day official tour of Netherlands.

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Mamata's warning comes at a time when there is no end in sight to the stand-off between the GJM and the state administration with the Morcha insisting only on a central government intervention. On Monday, Morcha supporters once again took out protest rallies across Darjeeling and burnt the chief minister's effigy.

Slamming the Trinamool Congress supremo, Morcha general secretary Roshan Giri said, "Mamata Banerjee has called us terrorists. That Gorkha community which is protecting the country at the border with their own lives is being termed as terrorists."

And while a section of the Morcha leadership has begun questioning alliance partner BJP's passive response to the separate statehood demand, Giri reiterated that they hope there will be some "concrete step" on the issue but informed that they have not received any assurance yet.

Infact, when asked about the current agitation in Darjeeling, West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh tried distancing his party from the GJM stir. "They are doing protests for their issues. We only have an electoral alliance with them," Ghosh said.

On Sunday, Morcha leader and Darjeeling MLA Amar Rai had spoken out against local BJP MP SS Ahluwalia for his absence from the hills during this hour of crisis.

"The MP should have been here... everyone feels the same. He should have been here in this hour of crisis. In a way, we are very disappointed," Rai had told India Today.

Ahluwalia had won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat in 2014 with the active support of the Morcha. Though he did accompany the GJM delegation which met home minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi this week, he has so far stayed away from his constituency ever since the turmoil broke out.

Meanwhile, the Morcha has called for an all party meeting in Darjeeling on Tuesday to chalk out the future strategy to carry the movement forward. Interestingly, the current agitation has brought all hill based Gorkha political outfits together, including arch rivals Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF), an alliance partner of the Trinamool Congress in the state.

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Also read:

Darjeeling GJM unrest: Uneasy calm as Mamata calls for peace before heading abroad

Darjeeling hills burn over Gorkhaland: Why Bimal Gurung must recall 2009 Supreme Court guidelines

Darjeeling unrest reaches Delhi, Gorkhas stage protest against Mamata Banerjee at Jantar Mantar

ALSO WATCH | GJM attacks BJP MP from Darjeeling Ahluwalia for not visiting since crisis broke out

--- ENDS ---
Globally, the percentage of candidates considering only business master's degrees such as Master of Finance, Master of Accounting, and Master in Management has increased from 15 per cent in 2009 to 23 per cent in 2016.

By India Today Web Desk: Three in four prospective graduate business school candidates who hold a prior Master's degree are considering enrolling in MBA programmess, according to a new research from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).

Findings from the Council's 2017 Prospective Students Survey Report released shows that the MBA remains the predominant programme format considered by candidates with both prior business master's degrees (61 per cent) and non-business Master's degrees (86 per cent).

Here's what CEO of GMAC has to say:

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"These findings demonstrate that a business master's degree is not necessarily the end of graduates' business education," said Sangeet Chowfla, president and CEO of GMAC.

"For many, their business master's degree is a stepping stone to continued professional development that may include an MBA down the road, in either a full-time or part-time format," Chowfla added.

According to the survey report, globally, 22 per cent of prospective business school candidates have a prior Master's degree, with considerable regional variation. While 2 in 5 European candidates have a prior Master's-level credential, the same is true of just 14 per cent of US candidates.

Key Findings:

Demand for business Master's programmes continues to grow:

Fueled by growing candidate demand, non-MBA business master's programmes continue to proliferate.

Globally, the percentage of candidates considering only business Master's degrees such as Master of Finance, Master of Accounting, and Master in Management has increased from 15 per cent in 2009 to 23 per cent in 2016.

This rise in interest has been particularly strong among candidates from East and Southeast Asia and Western Europe, where now more than 2 in 5 candidates report considering only these programme types. Also, Non-MBA and MBA programmes attract distinct candidate pools seeking different outcomes. Candidates considering non-MBA business master's programmes skew younger and the majority have little to no prior work experience.

Compared with MBA candidates, individuals preferring business master's programs are more interested in developing their technical skills. MBA candidates are typically older, have more years of work experience, and are more interested in developing their managerial and leadership skills.

International study demand remains strong:

Nearly 3 in 5 prospective business school students (59 per cent) intend to apply to programmes outside their country of residence, up from 44 per cent in 2009.

Most candidates seek study opportunities outside their country of citizenship to receive a higher-quality education (63 per cent of respondents), to increase their chance of securing international employment (58 per cent), and to expand their international connections (51 per cent). One-third (34 per cent) of candidates who prefer to study outside their country of citizenship intend to seek employment in the country where they prefer to attend school.

US remains most preferred study destination though candidate preferences are shifting:

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Consistent with past research, more than 9 in 10 US candidates prefer to study domestically (96 per cent). Globally, among full-time MBA candidates looking to study outside their country of citizenship, 58 per cent prefer to study in the US, down from 61 per cent in 2009. Since 2009, there has been an increase in MBA candidates preferring to study in Canada (4 per cent in 2009 vs. 7 per cent in 2016).

There has been a similar shift in preferred study destinations among non-U.S. candidates interested in business Master's programs. In 2016, 47 per cent of non-US prospective students interested in business Master's programmes expressed a preference for study in the U S down from 57per cent in 2009.

Recent immigration policy changes having impact on international study choices:

Recent shifts in immigration policies may impact candidates' study destination preferences in 2017.

Anticipated changes in US immigration policies and last year's Brexit vote in the United Kingdommay make it more difficult for non-citizens to obtain student visas to study in those countries or to obtain work visas after graduation to seek employment, one of the main reasons for studying in those countries.

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Since November 2016, a growing share of international candidates say they are now less likely to pursue a graduate business degree in the US due to the presidential election results.

Education costs and financing continue to weigh heavily on candidates' minds:

The predominant reservation candidates have about pursuing a graduate business education revolves around costs.

Approximately half of surveyed candidates indicate that not having enough money available to pay for their education (52 percent of respondents) and potentially having to take on large debts (47 per cent) may prevent them from pursuing a graduate business degree

The two most important financial aspects that candidates evaluate when deciding where to apply are total tuition costs and scholarship availability.

Compared with 2009, candidates, on average, expect to cover a greater share of the cost of their education with grants, fellowships, and scholarships and a smaller share with parental support, loans, and employer assistance.

For more updates, follow India Today Education or you can write to us at education.intoday@gmail.com

--- ENDS ---
By India Today Web Desk: It's not very like Miley Cyrus for Miley Cyrus to take the right stand in a political scenario. Well, to be fair, even this scenario wasn't political, and her brother was involved in it, but she made it political and ended up actually making a good point.

Okay, allow us to explain.

It started over the weekend when Miley took to Instagram to congratulate her brother, Braison Cyrus, on his fashion-runway debut. Braison was walking the runway for Italian designer label, Dolce & Gabbana.

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Miley finished her post by saying, "PS D&G, I STRONGLY disagree with your politics.... but I do support your company's effort to celebrate young artists & give them the platform to shine their light for all to see!"

The reason she said she "disagrees with their politics" is because the design label decided to dress up First Lady Melania Trump recently. This is the dress in question:

Congratulations to Justice Neil Gorsuch on today's official investiture ceremony! It was an honor to witness unforgettable moment! A post shared by First Lady Melania Trump (@flotus) on Jun 15, 2017 at 7:32pm PDT

So, as a repercussion, though there have been no official statements from D&G yet, half owner of the brand, designer Stefano Gabbana went ahead and called Miley "ignorant" by reposting her own Instagram post. His exact words were, "We are Italian and we don't care about politics and mostly neither about the American one... We make dresses and if you think about doing politics with a post it's simply ignorant. We don't need your posts or comments so next time please ignore us!!"

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What an interesting time to be alive, indeed!

--- ENDS ---
The 52 Republican senators have been meeting several times a week behind closed doors to develop a bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. At least 50 of them must be on board for the bill to pass, and they could try as soon as next week.

Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative  Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative 

13 of them, highlighted below, are leading the effort. They are members of a working group created by Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the majority leader. The group includes two of the most conservative senators  Ted Cruz of Texas and Mike Lee of Utah  but excludes several prominent moderates.

Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative  Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative 

Mr. McConnell faces the same challenge that Speaker Paul D. Ryan confronted in the House. A bill that caters to conservatives risks alienating moderates.

Most senators want to make sure that people with pre-existing conditions are protected, but over all, they have different priorities. The fate of the health care bill could ultimately be decided by a handful of senators.

Some Senators Want to Push the Bill Further to the Right

Mr. Cruz and Mr. Lee would rather have a full repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Rand Paul of Kentucky has said that he doesnt think the House bill passed in May went far enough. He said he did not want to replace the Affordable Care Act with Obamacare Lite.

Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative  Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative 

Senator Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania wants to overhaul Medicaid and would go even further than the House bill to reduce future Medicaid spending. The House bill already ends Medicaid as an open-ended entitlement and slows the programs growth.

Others Want to Soften the Medicaid Cuts

One of the most divisive issues among Senate Republicans is whether and how to end the expansion of Medicaid. In 31 states that have expanded the program, the federal government pays at least 90 percent of the costs for newly eligible beneficiaries. The House bill would end the extra contributions beginning in 2020.

Several Republican senators from states that have expanded Medicaid  Rob Portman of Ohio, Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia and Dean Heller of Nevada  want to reduce federal payments gradually, perhaps over seven years.

Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative  Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative 

Mr. McConnell has proposed phasing out federal payments over three years.

Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Cory Gardner of Colorado have also expressed reservations about cuts to Medicaid.

Some Want More Assistance for the Old and the Poor

Several senators have been working on possible changes to federal tax credits offered in the House bill to help people buy insurance.

Senator John Thune of South Dakota is drafting a proposal to provide more financial assistance to low-income people and older Americans. He has said that Senate Republicans should make the bill more helpful to people on the lower end.

Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative  Republican senators are arranged based on their ideology scores  Less conservative More conservative 

Senator Susan Collins of Maine, a moderate, and Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a doctor with a keen interest in health policy, also want to make sure that insurance is affordable for older people with lower incomes.

The two have written their own alternative to replace major provisions of the Affordable Care Act, which would give states broad discretion to keep or roll back parts of the law.

The 46 Democratic senators and two independents are all expected to vote against the bill, which needs 51 votes to pass, with Vice President Mike Pence breaking a tie, if needed.
Buzz has it that Sridevi and Anil Kapoor will come together for Mr India sequel.

By India Today Web Desk: If you are a 90s kid, you would remember spending many Sundays watching Shekhar Kapur's Mr India on Doordarshan. From an interesting plot line to an invisible Anil Kapoor to a hot Ms Hawa Hawaii to a cunning Mogambo, everything about the 1987 cult remains iconic. And 30 years later, the makers are planning to recreate the magic with the film's sequel.

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Rumours of Mr India sequel have been doing the rounds for a while now. And if the latest report in Deccan Chronicle is to be believed, Mr India 2 is happening.

And that too with Sridevi and Anil Kapoor in attendance. For all those who have been waiting to see the hit jodi back on 70mm have a reason to rejoice. As Sridevi and her co-star Anil will return to play their original roles while another young pair will be roped in for pivotal roles.

A source close to the development was quoted as telling the daily, "The idea is to take the story forward, but not just for the heck of it. We wanted a solid plot, and we have got it."

Only a few months ago, producer Boney Kapoor has expressed his keenness to work on Mr India 2. In an interview to Times of India, he had said, "I would love to make Mr India 2. I am itching to make a few more films like Mr.India, Wanted and No Entry."

However, the film will be helmed by another director this time. And if reports are to be believed, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and Mom director Ravi Udyawar are the top contenders in the race.

ALSO READ: Throwback to Sridevi-Boney's huge showdown where Arjun Kapoor was involved

ALSO WATCH: Mr India sequel on track, confirms Anil Kapoor

--- ENDS ---
WASHINGTONThe Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced its Office of Innovation will host Office Hours for national banks, federal savings associations, and financial technology companies (fintech companies), July 24-26, at the OCC's district office in New York City.

Office Hours provide an opportunity for meetings with OCC officials to discuss financial technology, new products or services, partnering with a bank or fintech company, or other matters related to financial innovation. OCC staff will provide feedback and respond to questions. Each meeting will be no longer than one hour.

Interested parties may request an Office Hours session through July 5, and are asked to provide information on why they are interested in meeting with the OCC. Specific meeting times and arrangements will be determined after the OCC receives and accepts the request.

The OCC anticipates holding Office Hours in other cities at a later date.

In October 2016, the OCC created its Office of Innovation to serve as the conduit for banks, fintech companies, and other stakeholders to have a candid and open dialogue with the agency on innovation and to provide technical assistance. The Office of Innovation implements the OCC's responsible innovation framework, which includes

establishing an outreach and technical assistance program,

conducting awareness and training activities,

encouraging coordination and facilitation,

establishing an innovation research function, and

promoting interagency collaboration.

Related Links
From The Guardian

A bedrock of our democratic legitimacy could rise or fall with the US supreme court's decision whether to hear a case on hyper-partisan gerrymandering



Trump signing another Executive Order

(Image by USDAgov) Details DMCA



As we are all experiencing, every day there's some new shock from the Trump-Pence administration. Much of it is disgraceful. Yet we cannot let the tragedy of Donald Trump's presidency distract us from the broader fight to restore and protect the legitimacy of our democracy.

That legitimacy comes from the voters, and their influence is being systematically devalued by gerrymandering. A bedrock of our democratic legitimacy could rise or fall with the US supreme court's decision as to whether to hear a case and finally rule on the constitutionality of hyper-partisan gerrymandering.

The court recently reaffirmed the illegality of racial gerrymandering in the case of North Carolina. But to protect fully our democratic legitimacy, the court must go further and prohibit gerrymandering done to cement one-party rule.

Over the past several years, a ground war has been conducted against our democratic legitimacy at the state level by state political parties intent on minimizing the power of certain voters. Their goal: near permanent one-party rule.

This practice of hyper-partisan gerrymandering is destroying our democracy by reverse-engineering the election process. Rather than voters choosing their representatives, representatives choose their voters.

I have reluctantly come to the view that the long-term solution is to take redistricting decisions away from elected officials, either by requiring that maps be drawn using non-partisan independent analysis, or putting redistricting entirely in the hands of independent commissions. I have previously supported legislative redistricting before these brutal tactics were employed.

A short-term solution, however, lies with the US supreme court, which has an opportunity to ban this illegitimate political ploy by agreeing to hear Gill v Whitford, and ruling that Wisconsin's hyper-gerrymandered map is unconstitutional. The court could almost single-handedly reinstate the influence of voters by doing this.

In Gill v Whitford, Wisconsin voters are arguing that the state's redistricting map violates their first amendment rights and the equal protection clause in the 14th amendment. Using census data from 2010, the Wisconsin Republican party redrew the state district map so as to essentially guarantee that it wins a majority of seats in the state legislature. The district lines make no sense other than diluting the influence of Democratic voters and inflating the value of Republican voters.

Locking in a Republican majority in Wisconsin took some real creativity, and utter disregard for what makes our democracy legitimate. Democratic and Republican voters are not generally clustered into partisan areas of Wisconsin, but more spread out across the state.

And yet, with roughly 50% of the statewide vote in 2012 and 2014, the Republican party was able to lock in a solid majority in the state assembly, with 60 out of 99 seats in 2012, and 63 out of 99 seats in 2014. These outcomes are only possible with a district map that silences certain voters and gives a megaphone to others.

This delegitimization also affects the resulting loyalties of the elected officials. In partisan gerrymandered districts, an elected official knows that the greatest threat to re-election is a primary challenger, which leads to hyper-loyalty to the party bosses or their financial backers, regardless of their constituency or personal convictions.

Representatives do not need to answer to constituents, hold town halls, or even campaign very hard, so long as they stay in the good graces of the state party and in particular their post-Citizens United big money backers.

The supreme court has never before ruled a state's redistricting plan unconstitutional because of partisan gerrymandering. While the court is often loathe to overturn its own precedent, it has done so in the past when our country has learned hard lessons from its own history. "Separate but equal" is a prime example. This may seem like a hyperbolic comparison, but it is less so when you consider the motives behind and impact of gerrymandering.

Next Page 1 | 2

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From Foreign Service Journal

The militarization of U.S. foreign policy certainly didn't start with President Donald J. Trump; in fact, it goes back several decades. However, if Trump's first 100 days in office are any indication, he has no intention of slowing down the trend.

During a single week in April, the Trump administration fired 59 Tomahawk missiles into a Syrian airfield, and dropped the largest bomb in the U.S. arsenal on suspected ISIS tunnels in Afghanistan. This 21,600-pound incendiary percussion device that had never been used in combat -- the Massive Ordinance Air Blast or MOAB, colloquially known as the "Mother of All Bombs" -- was used in the Achin district of Afghanistan, where Special Forces Staff Sergeant Mark De Alencar had been killed a week earlier. (The bomb was tested only twice, at Elgin Air Base, Florida, in 2003.)

To underscore the new administration's preference for force over diplomacy, the decision to experiment with the explosive power of the mega-bomb was taken unilaterally by General John Nicholson, the commanding general of U.S. forces in Afghanistan. In praising that decision, Pres. Trump declared that he had given "total authorization" to the U.S. military to conduct whatever missions they wanted, anywhere in the world -- which presumably means without consulting the inter-agency national security committee.

It is also telling that Pres. Trump chose generals for two key national security positions traditionally filled by civilians: the Secretary of Defense and the National Security Adviser. Yet three months into his administration, he has left unfilled hundreds of senior civilian governmental positions at State, Defense and elsewhere.

An Increasingly Shaky Ban

While Pres. Trump has not yet enunciated a policy on the subject of political assassinations, there has so far been no indication that he plans to change the practice of relying on drone killings established by his recent predecessors.

Back in 1976, however, President Gerald Ford set a very different example when he issued his Executive Order 11095. This proclaimed that "No employee of the United States government shall engage in, or conspire to engage in, political assassination."

He instituted this prohibition after investigations by the Church Committee (the Senate Select Committee to Study Governmental Operations with Respect to Intelligence Activities, chaired by Sen. Frank Church, D-Idaho) and the Pike Committee (its House counterpart, chaired by Rep. Otis G. Pike, D-N.Y.) had revealed the extent of the Central Intelligence Agency's assassination operations against foreign leaders in the 1960s and 1970s.

With a few exceptions, the next several presidents upheld the ban. But in 1986, President Ronald Reagan ordered an attack on Libyan strongman Muammar Gaddafi's home in Tripoli, in retaliation for the bombing of a nightclub in Berlin that killed a U.S. serviceman and two German citizens and injured 229. In just 12 minutes, American planes dropped 60 tons of U.S. bombs on the house, though they failed to kill Gaddafi.

Twelve years later, in 1998, President Bill Clinton ordered the firing of 80 cruise missiles on al-Qaida facilities in Afghanistan and Sudan, in retaliation for the bombings of U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. The Clinton administration justified the action by asserting that the proscription against assassination did not cover individuals whom the U.S. government had determined were connected to terrorism.

Days after al-Qaida carried out its Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, President George W. Bush signed an intelligence "finding" allowing the Central Intelligence Agency to engage in "lethal covert operations" to kill Osama bin Laden and destroy his terrorist network. White House and CIA lawyers argued that this order was constitutional on two grounds. First, they embraced the Clinton administration's position that E.O. 11905 did not preclude the United States' taking action against terrorists. More sweepingly, they declared that the ban on political assassination did not apply during wartime.

The Bush administration's wholesale rejection of the ban on targeted killing or political assassinations reversed a quarter-century of bipartisan U.S. foreign policy. It also opened the door to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to conduct targeted killings (a euphemism for assassinations).

The U.S. Air Force had been flying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), since the 1960s, but only as unmanned surveillance platforms. Following 9/11, however, the Department of Defense and the Central Intelligence Agency weaponized "drones" (as they were quickly dubbed) to kill both leaders and foot soldiers of al-Qaida and the Taliban.

The United States set up bases in Afghanistan and Pakistan for that purpose, but after a series of drone attacks that killed civilians, including a large group gathered for a wedding, the Pakistani government ordered in 2011 that the U.S. drones and U.S. military personnel be removed from its Shamsi Air Base. However, targeted assassinations continued to be conducted in Pakistan by drones based outside the country.

In 2009, President Barack Obama picked up where his predecessor had left off. As public and congressional concern increased about the use of aircraft controlled by CIA and military operators located 10,000 miles away from the people they were ordered to kill, the White House was forced to officially acknowledge the targeted killing program and to describe how persons became targets of the program.

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I was recently reminded of how memory can get blurred over time, erasing facts in favor of vague impressions. When I mentioned to a thirty-something woman several months ago that I was eager to see the Broadway musical Cagney she looked puzzled and asked, "Who is Cagney?" Then she thought a minute and said, "Oh, wasn't he a famous gangster who killed a lot of people?"

No. James Cagney was an actor who played gangster roles. He was also a delightful song and dance man, beloved by generations of moviegoers.

My young friend's memory managed to dig up a connection between crime and Cagney, but she got the facts wrong.

Memory and history matter in other ways too. Here's an example from the recent HBO production All the Way, about President Lyndon Baines Johnson (LBJ).

In a remarkable scene in the Oval Office, Johnson, lobbying for the passage of his 1964 civil rights bill, thrusts his face close to that of Republican Senate Minority Leader Everett Dirksen, and says: "We're making history here, Everett. And you have to decide how you want history to remember you."

Dirksen was vigorously opposed to the bill as it stood and wanted to water it down with forty amendments, but he took to heart LBJ's advice about his legacy. He and other Republican senators whom Dirksen persuaded voted to end the filibuster, enabling the historic bill to pass in the senate 73 to 27.

Trump and his army of sycophants do not seem to care about how history will remember them. They may be encouraged to disregard their legacies by gloating about their ability to rationalize their lies and hypocrisies with deceptive arguments that their base relishes. History will not be so generous.

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Syrian Eye

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The following are some timely news reports previously published on Inside Syria Media Cent website: https://en.insidesyriamc.com/

First Mosul then Raqqa. How Washington targets civilians

Yesterday, a monitoring group Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently published another footage of the aftermath of the U.S.-led coalition's strikes on the city. Videos and photos show damaged buildings, bomb craters and fires.

In particular, shocking are the photos of children and adults injured because of the coalition: someone's face is burnt, another man is bleeding while the other guy seems to be shocked and can't move.

Meanwhile, conventional weapons don't quite satisfy Washington. In the previous week, ISIS-linked channel Amaq published a video showing white phosphorus shells hitting Raqqa. Using these munitions in populated areas is prohibited by the international law.

White phosphorus causes terrifying effects: contacting a human skin, it burns it to the bone, and if a person inhales the gas released during the burning, he would start choking and literally burn from the inside. It also ignites high temperature fires that are difficult to extinguish.

Notably, in an article concerning the accusations of the U.S. illegal methods of war, the New York Times refers to an official who on the condition of anonymousness told the newspaper that the coalition indeed has access to white phosphorus munitions, which, however, are not used against personnel. But as we see, their role is to fight civilians.

Besides, the spokesman for the U.S.-led task force Col. Ryan Dillon commented on the situation. According to him, white phosphorus is used for "screening, obscuring and marking in a way that fully considers the possible incidental effects on civilians and civilian structures".

Tens of thousands of residents who still stay in Raqqa don't seem to be considered civilians by the Pentagon. According to Unicef, 40,000 children are still trapped in the city, and their lives are in constant danger because of the coalition's bombings and shellings.

Moreover, in the same NYT article, the Syrian government is accused of using white phosphorus against the militants during the battle for Aleppo. Isn't it an example of the western hypocrisy?

Obviously, this is just the beginning of Raqqa's destruction. During the operation on pushing ISIS out of Mosul, almost one thousand civilians were killed. The West proved how indifferent Washington is to deaths among the civilian population. And HRW's call to think first of Raqqa residents, who have been suffering from ISIS for 3 years, will remain unheard.

The DPRK calls US Actions in Syria "Terror under the Aegis of the State"

On Sunday, the Korean Central News Agency stated that the US actions in Syria were "terrorism under the auspices of the state" and violate the territorial integrity of the country.

It was also stressed that regular strikes carried out by the US-led coalition caused great damage to Syria. Such air strikes led to civilian casualties, destroyed infrastructure, and hundreds of thousands of people who become refugees.

According to the agency, Washington's actions were "a key element of international terrorism", and destroy stability in the world.

Qatar as Another Hotbed of Tension Between U.S. and Turkey

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From Arab News



Ambassador Nikki Haley Addresses the U.N. Human Rights Council

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Nikki Haley, the US ambassador to the UN, seems to be championing a single cause: Israel.

When Haley speaks about Israel, her language is not merely emotive nor tailored to fit the need of a specific occasion. Rather, her words are resolute, consistent and are matched by a clear plan of action.

Along with Haley, the rightwing Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu is moving fast to cultivate the unique opportunity of dismissing the UN, and thus, any attempt at criticizing the Israeli occupation.

Unlike previous UN ambassadors who strongly backed Israel, Haley refrains from any coded language or any attempt, however poor, to appear balanced. Last March, she told a crowd of 18,000 supporters at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee's (AIPAC) annual policy conference that this is a new era for US-Israel relations.

"I wear heels. It's not for a fashion statement," she told a crowd thrilled by her speech. "It's because if I see something wrong, we're going to kick 'em every single time."

Trump's new ambassador condemned, in retrospect, UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which strongly criticized Israel's illegal settlements. While still in its final days in office, the Obama administration did not vote for -- but did not veto the resolution, either -- thus setting a precedent that has not been witnessed in many years.

The US abstention, according to Haley, was as if the "entire country felt a kick in the gut."

What made Israel particularly angry over Obama's last act at the UN was the fact that it violated a tradition that has extended for many years, most notably during the term of John Negroponte, US Ambassador to the UN, during former President George W. Bush's first term in office.

What became known as the "Negroponte doctrine" was a declared US policy -- that Washington will oppose any resolution that criticizes Israel that does not also condemn Palestinians.

But Israel, not the Palestinians, is the occupying power that refuses to honor dozens of UN resolutions and various international treaties and laws. By making that decision, and, indeed, following through to ensure its implementation, the US managed to sideline the UN as an "irrelevant" institution.

Sidelining the UN, then, also meant that the US would have complete control over managing the Middle East, but especially the situation in Palestine.

However, under Trump, even the US-led and self-tailored "peace process" has become obsolete.

This is the real moral but, also political, crisis of the Haley doctrine, for it goes beyond Negroponte's silencing of any criticism of Israel at the UN, into entirely removing the UN -- thus international law -- from being a factor in resolving the conflict.

"The ambassador seems to have no regard for her country's allies, or the possible repercussions of dismissing the only international body that still serves as a platform for international engagement and conflict resolution." Ramzy Baroud

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From Gush Shalom



Donald Trump- Caricature

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WHEN I was young, there was a joke: "There is no one like you -- and that's a good thing!"

The joke applies now to Donald Trump. He is unique. That's good, indeed.

But is he unique? As a world-wide phenomenon, or at least in the Western world, is he without parallel?

As a character, Trump is indeed unique. It is extremely difficult to imagine any other Western country electing somebody like that as its supreme leader. But beyond his particular personality, is Trump unique?

BEFORE THE US election, something happened in Britain. The Brexit vote.

The British people, one of the most reasonable on earth, voted democratically to leave the European Union.

That was not a reasonable decision. To be blunt, it was idiotic.

The European Union is one of the greatest inventions of mankind. After many centuries of internal warfare, including two world wars, with uncounted millions of casualties, good sense at long last prevailed. Europe became one. First economically, then, slowly, mentally and politically.

England, and later Britain, was involved in many of these wars. As a great naval power and a world-wide empire, it profited from them. Its traditional policy was to instigate conflicts and to support the weaker against the stronger.

These days are, alas, gone. The Empire (including Palestine) is but a memory. Britain is now a mid-ranking power, like Germany and France. It cannot stand alone. But it has decided to.

Why, for God's sake? No one knows for sure. Probably it was a passing mood. A fit of pique. A longing for the good old days, when Britannia ruled the waves and built Jerusalem in England's green and pleasant land. (Nothing very green and pleasant about the real Jerusalem.)

Many seem to believe that if there had been a second round, the British would have reversed themselves. But the British do not believe in second rounds.

ANYHOW, THE "Brexit" vote was considered a sharp turn to the Right. And right after, there was the American vote for Trump.

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One man, one vote. It's a phrase we've all heard and it kind of tugs at us. But the tugs are may be in different directions. You might well ponder where women come in to the picture, for example. And descendants of former slaves may feel strongly about how men among their ancestors were denied the right to vote.



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The phrase may also ring hollow to the many with felony convictions who are permanently denied the right to vote, even today; in fact, many are denied the right to vote just for having a name similar to someone with a felony record. To advocates of alternative-voting systems, the focus may be more on the meaning of one vote than on the meaning of one man.

Emotions are important. People do not often think just logically as emotions often come into play. Voting itself is an emotional issue, not strictly and perhaps not even mainly a logical one. We are guided by wise old, often trite sayings, by habit of party affiliation, by stories we have heard, advertisements we have seen, and on rare occasions even by policy convictions. The point is that we are simply making a mistake when we think about voting methods without taking some account of the emotional baggage of typical voters.

Consider, for example, an election very much like the ones we usually have, using plurality voting with only two candidates in the race. In this limited circumstance, plurality voting is, at least in a weak formal sense, a balanced voting system where it is just as easy to vote against a candidate as to vote for a candidate. To vote against candidate A, a voter only has to vote for candidate B and conversely. So we might think there should be nothing at all to be gained by using balanced-plurality voting instead. Why bother with a voting system any more complicated when the simpler and very familiar system is already, arguably, a balanced system.

But in fact we cannot assume that voters think so logically. A voter who does not like either candidate A or candidate B may (with plurality voting) only being allowed to vote for one of the candidates, conclude that she cannot bring herself to vote for either candidate. She instead decides to just sit out the election and not vote, despite actually having a distinct preference between the two candidates. Alternatively, maybe such a voter will feel a responsibility to vote, so she instead casts a write-in ballot voting for her dog, herself or someone else who has no realistic chance of winning the election. It's a feel-good vote of course that has the identical effect on the election as not voting, but she does feel more responsible and perhaps even a little proud of voting but managing to find a way to avoid voting in favor of an unacceptable candidate.

But now consider what might happen if the election were held using balanced-plurality voting, where voters can explicitly cast a vote for or against either candidate. That same voter might think differently about how to vote. After all, while she opposes both candidates and (in her mind) cannot vote for either one, in reality she does oppose candidate B considerably more than she opposes candidate A. By casting her vote against B, this voter can feel honest about participating in the election and gratified that it was with a truly meaningful vote that actually could effect the election results. Logically, a vote against B has exactly the same effect in the election as if she held her nose and voted for A, but the emotions are very different and in this case at least, emotions rule. Emotions have real effects on voting so they cannot just be ignored when choosing a voting method.

And what about the day after the election? Voters learn that candidate B did actually win the election, but both candidates received negative net votes. B enters office with a negative 400,823 net votes compared with the negative 401,004 net votes cast for candidate A. The new Governor or new Senator takes office by a slim 181 net-vote margin but (importantly) with a negative net vote total. Quite clearly to everyone, this would be a win without anything remotely resembling a mandate. Compared to earlier election years when plurality voting was used, voter participation has increased significantly, so it is also harder for the new Senator to claim support from that silent majority of voters who did not show up to vote.

A lesson here is that if you want to determine the wishes of the voters through an election, then voters have to be allowed to express their opinions quite explicitly and directly (and I should point out that his is a virtue common to all of the balanced-voting systems). In general, it is not really relevant that some logical technical argument can reveal a clever way to vote that will have some desired technical effect. If voters are not aware of the argument or not completely convinced by it, the argument suffers from a serious flaw that makes it inapplicable to a real election with real human, emotion-guided voters.


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Black Agenda Report, by BAR executive editor Glen Ford

"The United States does not have a national health care system worthy of the name, because it is in the war business, not the health business or the social equality business."

The United States is a predator nation, conceived and settled as a thief, exterminator and enslaver of other peoples. The slave-based republic's phenomenal geographic expansion and economic growth were predicated on the super-exploitation of stolen African labor and the ruthless expropriation of native lands through genocidal wars, an uninterrupted history of plunder glorified in earlier times as "Manifest Destiny" and now exalted as "American exceptionalism," an inherently racist justification for international and domestic lawlessness.

Assembled, acre by bloody acre, as a metastasizing empire, the U.S. state demands fealty to its imperial project as a substitute for any genuine social contract among its inhabitants -- a political culture custom-made for the rule of rich white people.

The American project has been one long war of aggression that has shaped its borders, its internal social relations, and its global outlook and ambitions. It was founded as a consciously capitalist state that competed with other European powers through direct absorption of captured lands, brutal suppression of native peoples and the fantastic accumulation of capital through a diabolically efficient system of Black chattel slavery -- a 24/7 war against the slave. This system then morphed through two stages of "Jim Crow" to become a Mass Black Incarceration State -- a perpetual war of political and physical containment against Black America.

"The U.S. state demands fealty to its imperial project as a substitute for any genuine social contract among its inhabitants."

Since the end of World War Two, the U.S. has assumed the role of protector of the spoils of half a millennium of European wars and occupations of the rest of the world: the organized rape of nations that we call colonialism. The first Black U.S. president, Barack Obama, was among the most aggressive defenders of white supremacy in history -- defending the accumulated advantages that colonialism provided to western European nations, settler states (like the U.S.) and citizens -- having launched an ongoing military offensive aimed at strangling the Chinese giant and preventing an effective Eurasian partnership with Russia. The first phase of the offensive, the crushing of Libya in 2011, allowed the United States to complete the effective military occupation of Africa, through AFRICOM.

The U.S. and its NATO allies already account for about 70 percent of global military spending, but Obama and his successor, Donald Trump, demand that Europeans increase the proportion of their economic output that goes to war. More than half of U.S. discretionary spending -- the tax money that is not dedicated to mandated social and development programs -- goes to what Dr. Martin Luther King 50 years ago called the "demonic, destructive suction tube" of the U.S. war machine.

"The first Black U.S. president, Barack Obama, was among the most aggressive defenders of white supremacy in history."

The United States does not have a national health care system worthy of the name, because it is in the war business, not the health business or the social equality business. The U.S. has the weakest left, by far, of any industrialized country, because it has never escaped the racist, predatory dynamic on which it was founded, which stunted and deformed any real social contract among its peoples. In the U.S., progress is defined by global dominance of the U.S. State -- chiefly in military terms -- rather than domestic social development. Americans only imagine that they are materially better off than the people of other developed nations -- a fallacy they assume to be the case because of U.S. global military dominance. More importantly, most white Americans feel racially entitled to the spoils of U.S. dominance as part of their patrimony, even if they don't actually enjoy the fruits. ("WE made this country great.") This is by no means limited to Trump voters.

Race relations in the U.S. cannot be understood outside the historical context of war, including the constant state of race war that is a central function of the U.S. State: protecting "American values," fighting "crime" and "urban disorder," and all the other euphemisms for preserving white supremacy.

War is not a side issue in the United States; it is the central political issue, on which all the others turn. War mania is the enemy of all social progress -- especially so, when it unites disparate social forces, in opposition to their own interests, in the service of an imperialist state that is the tool of a rapacious white capitalist elite. Therefore, the orchestrated propaganda blitzkrieg against Russia by the Democratic Party, in collaboration with the corporate media and other functionaries and properties of the U.S. ruling class, marks the party as, collectively, the Warmonger-in-Chief political institution in the United States at this historical juncture. The Democrats are anathema to any politics that can be described as progressive.

"Race relations in the U.S. cannot be understood outside the historical context of war, including the constant state of race war that is a central function of the U.S. State."

Bernie Sanders is a highly valued Democrat, the party's Outreach Director and therefore, as Paul Street writes, "the imperialist and sheep-dogging fake-socialist Democratic Party company man that some of us on the 'hard radical' Left said he was." Sanders is a warmonger, not merely by association, but by virtue of his own positions. He favors more sanctions against Russia, in addition to the sanctions levied against Moscow in 2014 and 2016 for its measured response to the U.S-backed fascist coup against a democratically elected government in Ukraine. Rather than surrender to U.S. bullying, Russia came to the military aid of the sovereign and internationally recognized government of Syria in 2015, upsetting the U.S. game plan for an Islamic jihadist victory.

Back in April of this year, on NBC's Meet The Press, Sanders purposely mimicked The Godfather when asked what he would do to force the Russians "to the table" in Syria:

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Two mentally challenged brothers were tied to a pole and brutally thrashed by locals in Odisha's Baripada city after the two boys were not able to provide satisfactory answers to the mob's questions.

The brothers were seen being beaten with sticks (ANI photo)

By India Today Web Desk: Two mentally challenged brothers in Odisha were thrashed by a mob of locals who suspected them of child theft in the Mayurbhanj district's Baripada city, news agency ANI reported early morning.

The incident is from earlier this week and ANI also reported that an investigation into the incident has been launched.

According to a June 17 report in the Odisha Post, the two brothers are mentally challenged and one of them is a minor.

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Their father, reportedly, also came under attack when he tried to save his boys from the wrath of the locals.

Images shared by ANI and published in Odisha Post showed the two brothers tied to a pole and the attackers assaulting them sticks. One of the brothers could be seen crying out for help.

According to Odisha Post, the incident took place after the brothers left their village to head to a neighbouring village. However, they lost their way and ended up Baripada's Laxmiposhi Battalion Chhak.

Baripada locals came across the two boys and suspecting them of child theft, started questioning them. The Post further reported that the brothers weren't able to provide satisfactory responses as they were mentally challenged.

This led to the mob tying them to a pole and thrashing them. The boys' father, who rushed to the scene on hearing about the incident, too was beaten by the locals.

The situation calmed after police reached the location and rescued the brothers. The boys were sent to a local hospital and were later moved to a Cuttack facility for further treatment.

The boys' father has lodged a complaint and an investigation has been launched.

ALSO READ | Jamshedpur limps back to normalcy after lynching of 7 men over WhatsApp child theft rumour

ALSO WATCH | What if lynching took place in Delhi or Mumbai instead of Jharkhand?

--- ENDS ---
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NOTE TO READERS: This is Part 2 of my two-part series "Fighting the McResistance--for Climate's Sake," in which I argue that leaving Democrats' astroturf "McResistance" in charge of the anti-Trump resistance movement will be a CATASTROPHE for our climate. While Part 2 is written to be understood on its own, readers will grasp it even better if acquainted with the "Good Cop as Judas" argument I made in Part 1.



Judas--betrays all of humanity, but still can't beat The Ogre.

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"A McResistance Summer Is Climate's Ultimate Bummer"

To be sure, even hard-core Clinton neoliberals may realize that Democrats' current shtick of serving corporate and plutocrats donors while betraying and stonewalling the party's voter base is doomed. That explains why they've put popular progressive independent Bernie Sanders--hoping he'll play progressive-herding "sheepdog" --in charge of party messaging.

But, whatever Sanders says or does, leading Democrats have clearly made an amazingly hard-core commitment to postponing the party's day of reckoning and reform as long as possible. Obviously, suckling at corporate oligarchs' teats is sweet for leading Democrats--to the extent even political suicide seems worth the risk. Nothing could be more politically suicidal than the Democratic National Committee's (DNC's) claimed legal right to rig primaries and deceive its voter base and small donors about the facts. Provided, of course, real progressives find a way to overcome mainstream media's blackout and publicize the DNC fraud lawsuit--an action campaign advocated in this article's closing section.

While the "Clintocrat" neoliberals now strangling Democratic Party reform sense no pressing political timetable for their party's reformist day of reckoning, a human race facing climate apocalypse has a vastly more urgent scientific one. Clearly, the "McResistance" agenda--promoting corrupt Democrats' return to power, despite their own stiff-necked rejection of reform, by focusing attention on Trump's sheer badness--is repulsive enough in itself. But what makes it especially dangerous--making a McResistance Summer "climate's ultimate bummer"--is the three ways Democrats already betray humanity by their climate policy and obviously will continue to without major reforms. Before Trump and his fellow "climate Visigoths" got a hold of climate policy, Democrats' climate betrayals were bad enough; after Trump's massive destruction, unreformed Democrats' continued climate betrayals will almost surely spell Armageddon.

Two of Democrats' climate betrayals are related to their own policy, one to their climate-specific policy and the other their policy on non-climate issues. The other is intimately tied to the inability of their betraying party--their Judas party--to consistently beat "climate Visigoth" Republicans.

Betrayal #1: Democrats' Climate Policy Is "Just Plain Silly"

When speaking publicly on humanity's climate emergency, world-renowned climatologist James Hansen is not a man to pull punches. With science, not partisanship, determining his choice of words, Hansen is almost unique among climate activists in calling out the climate irresponsibility of Democrats (not just Republicans) in the choicest of words. Thus, speaking with no false, politically correct reverence for Barack Obama, Hansen fiercely lambasted the talks culminating in Obama's supposedly signature climate achievement--the Paris Climate Agreement--as "bullshit," "worthless words," and "a fraud." Equally unsparing of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, then Obama's presumptive successor, Hansen ridiculed her expected climate policies as "just plain silly."

As evidence backing Hansen's claims--beyond what he himself offers in the links just cited--readers should peruse Carol Dansereau's fine CounterPunch article, contrasting Democrats' latest "climate fix" legislation ("boldly" offered, of course, at a time when it has zero prospects of passage) with one model of what effective climate action would actually look like. But rather than compile evidence--abundantly available--of why Democrats' climate policy is so inadequate as to be "just plain silly," I'll instead argue why the climate policy of an unreformed Democratic Party (the kind sought by the McResistance) is guaranteed to remain so.

Sonali Kolhatkar had laid the foundation for my climate-specific case against Democrats in a splendid,more general Truthdig piece--one that, without using the term, is a masterpiece in framing the issues surrounding the "McResistance." Right off the bat, Kolhatkar hits a "home run" of framing:

"Our current political moment is being interpreted as a battle between compassion and cruelty, between reason and irrationality. But it ought to be viewed as a fight between two limited sectors of the political spectrum: the extreme right and the center, both of which care more about corporate power than about ordinary Americans."

No two sentences could better explain the contrast between the false perception of Democrats the McResistance propaganda machine strives to impose and the stark duopoly reality we now face. A duopoly reality Max Mastellone has beautifully summed up under the "Good Cop, Bad Cop" model. And to which I've usefully added the realization--important in stigmatizing the DNC's scandalous legal argument (see this article's final section)--that "playing Judas" is virtually the Good Cop's job description.

But returning to Kolhatkar's "home run" framing of our disastrous duopoly, she immediately adds,

"The difference is the degree to which cruelty and irrationality reign. The weak reforms implemented and backed by Democrats have only provided fodder for their rivals instead of bulwarks against extremism."

Again, these two sentences are dead on. And Kolhatkar's own examples in the article are splendidly picked to illustrate how the halfhearted weakness of "reforms implemented and backed by Democrats" repeatedly sets them up for undoing by brutal Republicans. Cunningly, Republicans temporarily become as rational as Democrats' principled leftist critics--indeed, they often make the same critiques, even citing the principled left--in castigating Democratic Party half-measures doomed to failure. Then, Republicans substitute policies of their own that--from every perspective but a shortsighted oligarchic, social Darwinist one--set new standards of cruelty and irrationality. In reaction, voters then beg Democrats to "have a heart," and they respond with "half a heart" (if even that)--continuing the duopoly's "Good Cop, Bad Cop" vicious circle of exploiting American voters.

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Tim Black notes that a disturbing voice-masking call to DNC fraud lawsuit attorneys, Elizabeth and Jared Beck, has a DNC caller ID attached.

The Becks have received anonymous death threats as the body count of those involved in the DNC has grown. Black notes "The DNC Fraud Lawsuit Motion To Dismiss is still being considered by the judge in the case. But this week shenanigans resumed allegedly by the defendant's side when lawyers for the plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit received a disturbing call from someone using a vocal transformer to disguise the caller's identity. Attorneys Elizabeth and Jared Beck filed notice of the call with the court with evidence that the caller I.D. from the source matches a number listed to the Democratic National Committee. Whether the call originated from the alleged source or was spoofed to appear that way is still under investigation.

Reference was also made during the call of deceased U.S. Attorney Barronton Wisenet who was found dead on a Miami beach recently."

Medium's Zach Haller notes: "On Tuesday, June 13, 2017, lawyers for the plaintiffs in the DNC fraud lawsuit filed a Motion for Order of Protection to the U.S. District Court in Florida following three disturbing incidents that recently occurred in orbit of the lawyers and plaintiffs involved in the ongoing, high-stakes litigation," and recounts disturbing recent events.
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Anis Shivani is the author of several critically acclaimed books of fiction, poetry, and criticism, including Anatolia and Other Stories (2009), Against the Workshop: Provocations, Polemics, Controversies (2011), The Fifth Lash and Other Stories (more...)



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From Reader Supported News

GOP goons grab reporter when he asks how 40,000 minority voter registrations vanished



Jon Ossoff and Karen Handel.

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Karen Handel took a break from beating up Democrat John Ossoff to attack a reporter: me. In the televised debate between the two candidates vying for Georgia's 6th Congressional District, Republican Handel claimed, "a reporter supposedly representing some very liberal Democratic organization almost literally accosted me."

In fact, is was a trio of galoots working for Handel who accosted me.

But who accosted whom is less important than Handel promoting the dangerous new trend of attacking the press, sometimes physically, when questions are uncomfortable or challenging.

Handel is afraid I'll report what I began uncovering in my investigations in Georgia's 6th. I first came here in 2014 for Al Jazeera, when I interviewed an enthusiastic group of Korean-Americans based in the 6th, the Asian-American Legal Advocacy Center. When I returned to cover the current race, I found the Asian-American voting rights office shuttered and empty.

Apparently, the group which had launched a "10,000 Korean Votes" registration drive discovered that many of their registrants simply never appeared on voter rolls. Their lawyers' query about missing voters to the Secretary of State resulted in a raid by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and a threat of criminal charges.

Voting rights attorney Nse Ufot told me what happened:

"They were doing a campaign to register 10,000 Korean-Americans to vote, and had quite a bit of success. At some point during the campaign, they noticed that many of the folks that they were registering were not showing up on the voter rolls. So, they reached out to the Secretary of State to say, "Hey, where are our folks? Why aren't they showing up on the rolls?" They never got an official response. What they did get was the GBI kicking in the door and requesting all of their files."

While no charges were brought, the terrifying raid was enough to put the Korean voter group out of business. And Ufot's own group, New Georgia Project, has seen the registrations of new voters of color suspiciously...vanish.

Ufot told me, "We submitted 86,419 voter registration forms. There are 46,000 of the folks that we've registered who have made it, and 40,000 of them are missing."

So New Georgia Project contacted the Republican Secretary of State's office.

"You know what they told us? 'We don't know what you're talking about. What forms?' They did not disappear. We intentionally registered voters on paper forms so that we could make copies. We knew who they were. They were not on the voter rolls."

When African-American activists raised a ruckus over the disappearance, they got the same treatment as the Korean-Americans: a Gestapo-style raid on their offices, threats of criminal charges and jail term.

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Fried okra, Carolina gold rice, tomatoes warm off the vine  these are the summer foods of South Carolina, and all of them have an African American connection. Go beyond the plate this summer to explore the place, the terroir (to use that buzzword) of these iconic Southern foods.

The Green Book of S.C. is a contemporary travel-planning tool that pays homage to the original Green Book, first published in 1936 by New York City postman Victor Green as an African American travel guide to safe harbors and welcoming establishments across the United States. This contemporary homage features tourism destinations while focusing on the story of African Americans in the Palmetto State.

Probably no other crop defines the state more than rice. Rice, which had been harvested and consumed by people on the Asian and African continents for centuries, was introduced to America in 1685. Although colonists had already identified the low-lying marshes and tidal rivers as ideal rice fields, the enslaved people brought to America from the west coast of Africa taught them advanced harvesting techniques that allowed them to mass-produce and make rice a cash crop. There were rice plantations all over the South Carolina Lowcountry, including Hampton Plantation State Historic Site (which is mentioned in Green Books Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site entry) and the Cooper River Historic District. And since rice is a crop that redefines the landscape with a series of locks and controlled flooding, the state still bears that evidence today. Carolina Gold Rice, the actual variety of rice grown, has been revived as a crop and is a favorite of many Southern chefs, so its easy to find a bite after taking in the sights.

If its seafood youre searching, go down almost to the Georgia line to Daufuskie Island, where deviled crab (a mixture of crab meat, breadcrumbs, spices and peppers pressed back into a blue crab shell and baked) gained popularity. Youll have to take a ferry as there are no bridges to the island, but the movement of the tides will tell you more about the origin of this delicious food than a book ever could. And yes, there is deviled crab to be had on the island at Old Daufuskie Crab Company.

Designed with the mobile user in mind, The Green Book of S.C. features more than 300 heritage sites and cultural attractions across all 46 counties in South Carolina. The guide is designed with the mobile smartphone or tablet user in mind, but it is applicable for laptop and desktop users, too. View the entire Green Book of South Carolina mobile travel guide online and via mobile web browser at www.greenbookofsc.com. Users can add a shortcut to their collection of apps on their mobile device home screens via the web browser settings interface.

Photo by Tam Warner Minton, CC BY 2.0

Stephanie Burt is a contributor for Paste and the host and producer of The Southern Fork, a podcast that host conversations with some of the most interesting voices in the culinary South. In other words, she knows her way around a good biscuit. Follow her adventures in eating at @southernfork on Instagram.
A member of US President Donald Trumps legal team has just executed a backflip so insanely rapid that we have legitimate concerns for his spine.

Jay Sekulow appeared on Fox News Sunday to discuss the mounting pressure placed on Trump by the special counsel investigation, which is investigating potential links between Trumps camp and Russia.

Host Chris Wallace fielded Sekulow a question relating to the aftermath of Trump firing former FBI director James Comey; ICYMI, Comey was leading a separate FBI investigation into Trumps team when the POTUS booted him.

At the time, Trumps camp said the firing was spurred by the apparent recommendations of deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein, but Trump himself used a TV interview to say he was going to fire Comey before even receiving that recommendation from Rosenstein. Thats shady as hell.

Cut to a couple of days ago, when Trump posted a tweet with two very interesting take-aways.

The first is that hes mad Rosenstein, who acts as the de facto head of the special counsel due to his role as deputy attorney general, seemed to be acting hypocritically by giving the new investigation the go-ahead; the second is that hes now personally under investigation for potential ties to Russia.

I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 16, 2017

Thats what Wallace prodded Sekulow about, and then he gave up the facts: yes, President Donald Trump is now personally under investigation regarding alleged ties to the Russian camp. Not just his staff. Not just his aides. Trump himself.

Wallace capitalised on the admission, echoing Sekulows words. Then, in an about-face so chaotic were surprised his head didnt fall straight off, Sekulow denied that Trump was under investigation.

Holy crap. This exchange between Chris Wallace and Trumps lawyer is absolutely incredible. pic.twitter.com/Wem33Lc1VK  David Mack (@davidmackau) June 18, 2017

Any time someone says let me be crystal clear, you can bet theyre trying to undo an accidental truth. Good job, Sekulow.

Source: The Guardian / Business Insider.

Photo: Fox News.
Loic Bruni, during the Crankworx Whistler Air DH, drops off the drop that caused the injury.

The A-Line rock drop in question.

The B.C Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of Whistler Blackcomb when a rider sued after being critically injured while riding the park in 2009, The Provence reports.Blake Jamieson had signed the Whistler Bike Park waiver that all riders are required to sign before being allowed to ride the world-famous facilities but claimed that Whistler Blackcomb "failed to warn him of the risks involved" and was seeking compensation as a result.Jamieson is a graduate of the University of British Columbia and had been a volunteer Bike Park Patroller for three years prior to the devastating accident that resulted in him now being in a wheelchair.The accident took place on Whistler's world-famous A-Line rock dropa feature that has a ride around and a number of options for dropping straight off it. It's claimed that Jamieson was attempting to pre-hop the dropa move that takes considerable committmentbut unfortunately, he caught his rear wheel on the end of the rock, causing the accident.Despite being a volunteer patroller in the park prior to the accident, Jamieson claims that he "had no idea that a spinal-cord injury was possible and specifically that going over the handlebars was a common mechanism of injury.In her ruling, Justice Neena Sharma found that the Whistler Bike Park's warnings of risk were reasonable and that someone who signed the resorts release would understand they were waiving their right to sue.  The Release is comprehensive, clear, and blunt. I do not see how any adult with basic reading skills could reasonably believe he or she retained the right to sue Whistler if they were injured using the park, even if Whistler was negligent, Sharma wrote.Jamieson's lead counsel, Scott Stanley, said the releases remove the legal incentive for companies to protect customers.Essentially anyone who has signed a waiver for any activity in B.C. should operate on the assumptions that they have no legal recourse against the provider even if their conduct is egregious, he said in a written statement.However, Robert Kennedy, counsel for the resort, noted that releases are unenforceable for minors, which he claims acts as a huge incentive to keep the premises safe. Kennedy said the case underscored why a release defense is important.If anyone had full knowledge and understanding of the risk of the sport it was the plaintiff in this case. And yet his theory of liability is: Oh, I didnt know I could get seriously hurt."This is a big deal for anyone who recreates throughout B.C. drumming home that you are responsible for your actions, and that knowing the rights you're waiving is important to consider.
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) Makers of consumer durables say they expect the market to take at least 2-3 months to normalise operations post the implementation of Goods and Services Tax from July 1.

Migration to the new indirect tax regime, they said, is causing discomfort among their trade partners who are busy clearing old stock to avoid losses before the new indirect tax regime kicks in next month.

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"GST has caused a sense of discomfort amongst the traders as they are worried over the cash flow that might occur during GST implementation therefore, consumer-centric offers are being introduced," Panasonic India Head-Channel Operations Ajay Seth told PTI.

Explaining the current situation in the industry value chain, Godrej Appliances Business Head and Executive Vice President Kamal Nandi said that if distributors were to carry carry forward stocks to the GST regime from VAT regime, they would lose around 3-4 per cent margin.

"Right now they are liquidating their stock. If they do not have any stock, they are purchasing it. They are not upstocking anything," he added.

According to the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the situation could take up to three months to normalise after the implementation of GST.

"Business will be normalised over the next two-three months of operations," CEAMA President Manish Sharma.

Nandi ruled out any panic in the market saying informed decisions and planned strategies are being executed, and companies are supporting their dealer partners.

"We have given some sell out schemes to reduce stocks and they (trade partners) would purchase from July 1," he added.

Expressing similar views, Videocon COO C M Singh said traders are focusing on liquidating their stocks.

"In order to help out traders in the given situation, we are extending the excise paid bills," he added.

Under the GST regime, most of the home appliances and consumer durables will attract 28 per cent levy barring some items such as air coolers which are under the 18 per cent bracket. PTI KRH RKL SA

--- ENDS ---
Tristan Chevalier and Petteri Vanhapelto Dominate 2017 Cash Game Festival Malta

June 19, 2017 Jason Glatzer Editor

The 2017 Cash Game Festival Malta at Casino Malta by Olympic Casino was a big success both on and off the poker tables. Players came from around Europe for five days of nonstop cash game action from June 14-18.

Each day during the festival, Brandon Allen hosted two televised feature tables. A variety of co-hosts were invited to keep him company. The only time Allen wasn't in the booth was when he was on the feature table himself, and he showed his fans he also knows how to win on the poker tables booking the second biggest profit at the table.

Finland's Petteri Vanhapelto and France's Tristan Chevalier both won two televised feature tables. While each player individually was one feature table win shy of setting the most feature tables won during a festival with Italy's Federico Drassich (CGF Slovenia - March 2017) and Norway's Knut Rysstad (Gibraltar - May 2017) winning the most money on a feature table on three separate occasions during the same festival, they did set a combined record for the first time more than one player has been the biggest winner on multiple feature tables within the same Cash Game Festival.

Cash Game Festival Malta VIP Dinner

Many of the activities away from the felt were dubbed to be the best ever at a Cash Game Festival. Players raved about the VIP dinner which was held at a private home. At the home, there were huge enclosures showcasing white lions, baby tigers and cougars, parrots and many other exotic animals.

Cash Game Festival Malta Pool Party

Also getting praise were the catamaran trip around the Mediterranean Sea and the VIP Pool Party on the 19th at the top floor of the Intercontinental Hotel. What makes the Cash Game Festival different from other poker festivals is that players are able to attend all activities as it is easy to take a break from the poker action and get back to the tables after the activity is over or the next day.

Many players that have attended previous festivals have developed a feeling of family with others. Among the returning players were Monika Zukowicz, Niklas Blomqvist (who celebrated his birthday during the festival), Michael Fletcher, Sin Menis Melin, Jack Fenton, Veli-Matti Puumala, Trumulis, Dusan Hajek and Petteri Vanhapelto.

With Malta being the home of many gaming companies, many in the industry found it easy to attend including Betsafe Head of Poker Michael Robinson, Nordicbet Head of Poker Jostein Grdum, Betsson Poker Manager Marika Nowak, Guts.com Head of Poker Eirik Thorvaldsen and Guts.com Poker Coordinator Lars Erik Isaksen.

This concludes the PokerNews coverage of the 2017 Cash Game Festival Malta. Next up the festival heads to Sunny Beach, with the 2017 Cash Game Festival Bulgaria taking place at Platinum Casino from Aug. 9-13. Head to the Cash Game Festival website for more information about the festival and to register for the TV and side tables.
Gaurav Raina Wins WSOP Event #29: $2,500 No-Limit Hold'em

June 18, 2017 Jan Kores

Gaurav Raina emerged victorious in Event #29: $2,500 No-Limit Hold'em on Sunday after winning the heads-up battle against James Calvo as the tournament continued through to an unscheduled Day 4. The event originally attracted 1,086 players, generating a top prize worth $456,822.

"We had a joke with my friends, I said I was going to win three bracelets this summer, and we were all laughing. None of us thought that any one of us is actually gonna win a bracelet. But we were like 'we've been preppin', we're beasts,'" Raina said after his victory.

Raina now has accomplished one-third of his plan. "We're gonna go hard, it's gonna be awesome," he said.

The interrupted heads-up match gave Raina an opportunity to rest and set up a game plan designed specifically for play against Calvo, who showed some unorthodox patterns during the duel.

"I definitely spent some good time with friends discussing what the hell this guy is doing. I haven't seen many of his hands the entire day, the only hands he turned over were big hands, which is crazy, because his frequencies are super high," Raina said. "I was trying to figure out what his bet-sizing patterns were," he added.

"I definitely spent some good time with friends discussing what the hell this guy is doing."

Knowing he was coming back with a shorter stack, Raina wanted to make sure he'd do absolutely everything to scoop the bracelet. "I couldn't sleep much. I was thinking about the chip disadvantage, the bracelet, the huge pay jump. I got like four hours of sleep and I was just like walking around in circles. Trying to figure out what to do to not lose this match."

"It definitely couldn't hurt me to get rest and to come back. I was just amped up and wanted to finish, but other than that, it makes no real difference. It's a little suspenseful."

It couldn't start much better for Raina as he doubled in the fifth hand of the day (146th of the final table) when his flopped two pair against Calvo's flush draw. Raina vaulted to a slight lead and the players then changed chips back and forth.

Calvo, who took a lot of time to make every decision, was pulling out some big raises and check-raises to frustrate Raina. "Unfortunately, I never had a hand. I was airballing most of the time. His timing was very good. He managed to somehow check-raise when I didn't have much."

Raina had to adjust to his opponent's style and tempo. "I started limping the button because I figured he would be bombing, making big three-bets. Eventually, when I do get the right hand, I need to not let him stop bluffing."

Raina did eventually catch Calvo when he flopped a set of jacks, letting his opponent move all in on the turn where Raina's hand improved to a full house. Calvo still had a chance to win as he had queens up, hoping for another queen to land on the river. Raina faded the two-outer and then finally enjoyed the moment of joy after the 212th hand of the final table.

Originally From New Jersey, Raina and his girlfriend are moving to San Diego after the summer. Until then, there are still plenty of bracelets to chase for the Event #29 champion.

Event #29 Final Table Results

Place Winner Country Prize (USD) 1 Gaurav Raina United States $456,822 2 James Calvo United States $282,276 3 Asi Moshe Israel $199,718 4 Eddy Sabat United States $143,148 5 Eric Cloutier Canada $103,957 6 Griffin Abel United States $76,506 7 [Removed:153] Sweden $57,068 8 Giuseppe Pantaleo Germany $43,154 9 Scott Margereson United Kingdom $33,087

For a full recap of the final table on Day 3, be sure to visit the PokerNews live reporting blog.
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Hamilton, Bermuda, June 19, 2017 - North Atlantic Drilling Ltd has been awarded a one well contract with SPE for Seadrill Limited's semi-submersible West Hercules for work in the United Kingdom, West of Shetland. The contract will commence on 1st April 2018 when SPE will drill and test an appraisal well on the Cambo discovery with the data being used to refine the development project requirements. The minimum backlog for the contract is estimated at US$ 7 million.
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FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Petrodorado Energy Ltd.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Calgary, Alberta (FSCWire) - Petrodorado Energy Ltd. (TSX Venture:PDQ). has issued a press release with the following headline:Petrodorado Closes $1,000,000 Non-Brokered Private PlacementTo view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Petrodorado Energy Ltd., or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Petrodorado Energy Ltd.Source: Petrodorado Energy Ltd. (TSX Venture: PDQ)Date: June 19, 2017Time: 4:04 PM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Petrodorado Energy Ltd. and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2017 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)
By Press Trust of India: Raipur, Jun 19 (PTI) Over 12,000 solar pumps have been distributed so far to the farmers at subsidised rates under Saur Sujala Yojna in Chhattisgarh.

"About 12,161 solar powered pumps had been provided to the farmers till now against the target of 11,300 under Saur Sujala Yojna since the inception of the scheme in November last year," an energy department official said here today.

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Chief Minister Raman Singh was informed about the development under the scheme while he was chairing a review meeting of the energy department at his official residence today, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched the Saur Sujala scheme on state?s foundation day on November 1, 2016 in Raipur.

Its aim was to strengthen agriculture by providing irrigation facilities, particularly where there is no power supply, and development of farmers in the state, he said.

During the meeting, the chief minister instructed the officials to focus more in 85 tribal-dominated development blocks for the distribution of the solar energy-based irrigation pumps, the official said.

Singh expressed satisfaction that the department had distributed more solar pumps than the set target and congratulated the officials, he said.

The CM further stressed on the need to cover 20,000 farmers under this scheme by the end of this year pointing that farmers belonging to remote areas and inaccessible regions, should be given priority while distribution.

Notably, farmers are being provided solar-irrigation pumps of 5-horsepower and 3-horsepower at heavily subsidized rates in the state.

Solar irrigation pump worth Rs 3.5 lakh (3hp) is being given to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe classes at the cost of Rs 7,000, to Other Backward Class (OBC) at Rs 12,000 and general category farmers at Rs 18,000.

The remaining amount is borne by the state government, he said.

Besides, the chief minister also directed the officials to complete electrification of all villages and hamlets by March next year.

Similarly, he also asked to complete the installation of 32 power substations being established in different parts of the state, by March next year.

These power substations will facilitate quality electricity supply in nearly 95 per cent areas of the state, the official said.

Meanwhile, the officials informed in the meeting that 4,105 solar pumps had been installed for providing drinking water purposes in the state and there is a proposal to install 1,886 more such pumps in near future.

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Chairman of Chhattisgarh Power Holding Company Shivraj Singh and other officials were present on the occasion. PTI TKP RMT

--- ENDS ---
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FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Addison, TX (FSCWire) - Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation (OTC Pink:PGPM). has issued a press release with the following headline:Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation Approves Stock Repurchase and Retirement ProgramTo view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation, or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Pilgrim Petroleum CorporationSource: Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation (OTC Pink: PGPM, WKN: A0ETGE, ISIN: US72147P1075)Date: June 19, 2017Time: 4:43 PM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Pilgrim Petroleum Corporation and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2017 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)
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FSCwire / Press ReleaseThe following press release was disseminated by FSCwire for Sunvest Minerals Corp.--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---Vancouver, BC (FSCWire) - Sunvest Minerals Corp. (TSX Venture:SSS). has issued a press release with the following headline:Sunvest Arranges FinancingTo view this press release on the FSCwire website, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:If you would prefer, you can also view this press release as a PDF file, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser:For more information on Sunvest Minerals Corp., or to see additional press releases issued by this company, please either click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into your browser: http://www.fscwire.com/public-company/Sunvest Minerals Corp.Source: Sunvest Minerals Corp. (TSX Venture: SSS, WKN: A2AFZ5, ISIN: CA86804N1069)Date: June 19, 2017Time: 5:57 PM EDT--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---The story mentioned above was issued on behalf of Sunvest Minerals Corp. and disseminated through FSCwire.About FSCwireFSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.), is a global newswire dissemination, SEDAR, SEDI, and EDGAR / XBRL service provider.FSCwire is a full service global newswire dissemination company and is fully approved by all exchanges in Canada and the U.S. Press releases can be distributed for all sizes of public, private or not for profit companies and any other organization requiring news distribution. In addition to individual companies; public relations, communications and investor relations firms trust FSCwire to distribute press releases for their respective clients.In addition to newswire dissemination FSCwire also offers EDGAR, XBRL, SEDAR, SEDI, and additional services for publicly traded companies. For more information, please go to our website: http://www.fscwire.com Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2017 - FSCwire (a division of Filing Services Canada Inc.)
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.




After Ravindra Jadeja ran out Hardik Pandya in yesterday's Champions Trophy final between India and Pakistan, social media users trolled the all-rounder. Read on to find out more.

By Ganesh Radha-Udayakumar: After Ravindra Jadeja on Sunday caused millions of hearts to sink by running out an inspired Hardik Pandya, a parody Facebook account - Unofficial: Bombay High Court - 'ordered' that the prefix 'sir' be removed from his name and affixed to Pandya's instead.

Indian fans left disconsolate by the early loss of Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni in yesterday's Champions Trophy final against Pakistan, began to believe again when the Mumbai Indians all-rounder began hammering balls into the stands. But it wasn't meant to be.

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After a mistake from Jadeja caused him to be run out, an enraged Pandya stormed back to the dressing room - and any hopes of an Indian comeback were extinguished.

Twitterati weren't impressed, but sublimated their discontent into humour. Here's how one Twitter user thought Jadeja's and Pandya's next meeting would begin.

Here's the product of another vivid imagination.

Pandya with Jadeja in the dressing room right now ... #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/XTMGJ8dygg- The-Lying-Lama (@KyaUkhaadLega) June 18, 2017

This Twitter user couldn't resist making a Baahubali reference.

Today's play of the day#IndiaVsPakistanFinal Ravindra Jadeja Hardik Pandya pic.twitter.com/8Iemij31CI- MangoMan (@surendranvinod) June 18, 2017

And this man didn't give up hope of an Indian victory, although the scenario he envisioned does seem a little-far fetched.

Jadeja is going to play the greatest 25 overs in history to avoid meeting Pandya in the dressing room.- Domain Maximus (@sidin) June 18, 2017

Security was beefed up outside Dhoni's home in Ranchi, and this woman probably thought Jadeja needed to call in reinforcements too.

ALSO READ | Ravindra Jadeja and their listless performances: Where was the spark vs Pakistan?

ALSO READ | Cross the border for better fireworks, can help you pack: Gambhir to Mirwaiz Farooq after India-Pakistan final

ALSO WATCH | Pakistan thrash India to lift maiden ICC Champions Trophy

--- ENDS ---
Aroma Bravo encourages coffee aficionados to try more creative ways of enjoying coffee, such as making homemade cold brew coffee at home.

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888-582-6650 Charles C Harmon Co LLC888-582-6650

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-- Cold brew coffee is currently enjoying a boost in popularity especially among millennial coffee lovers for its refreshing taste. To meet the rising demand for this cold beverage, Aroma Bravo Coffee and Tea has made sure that its roasted coffee products are also ideal for making cold brew coffee at home."Even though most of our customers usually brew our Honduras coffee beans for hot beverages, the growing interest in cold coffee drinks has certainly got our attention," says a company official. "Some of our customers have actually begun using our beans to make their own cold brew coffee, and that has inspired us to promote our Honduras coffee for cold drinks as well."To check if the brand's Honduras coffee beans are indeed ideal for making cool coffee drinks, the team members at Aroma Bravo tested them for a few weeks. They combined a pound of their own Medium Dark Roast coffee beans (coarsely ground) with two liters of filtered water in a glass pitcher. They covered the solution and steeped it for twelve hours. They repeated the same process for the brand's two other roast levels, namely the Light Roast and French Roast.After the steeping period, they strained the coffee grounds from the three pitchers twice, first through a mesh strainer and then through a paper filter. Finally, it was time to taste the homemade coffee concentrates."We took a sample from each of the concentrates and added a bit milk and cold water, and the resulting coffees were absolutely delicious! We've never tried our own coffee beans the cold way before, so it was such a revelation. My personal favorite was the medium dark roast cold brew but the other two roasts were quite refreshing as well. I can see the appeal for cold brew coffees now," said the Aroma Bravo official.The staff even made come ice coffee cubes from the concentrates so as not to dilute the drink. What they do is take a couple of coffee cubes, add just enough milk and water and then mix in the concentrate of their choice. This way, the flavor stays the same even when the ice coffee cubes melt."We definitely learned a lot from making our homemade cold brew coffee. There are lots of creative ways to indulge in coffee, from the traditional black coffee to the trendy cold iced coffee drinks. Whether you take it hot or cold, I think we can all agree that coffee is something that pleases the senses. So we invite all coffee lovers out there to try cold brews and other specialty coffee drinks as often as they can. Who knows, you might turn out to be a big cold brew coffee fan after all!" The Aroma Bravo official concluded.Further information about Honduras whole coffee beans are available at https://www.amazon.com/ Honduras-Coffee- Whole-Bean-Marcala... Aroma Bravo offers Arabica coffee beans from the mountains of Marcala, Honduras. Grown in organic farms and roasted in small batches, Aroma Bravo Honduras Coffee is highly recommended for coffee lovers.
Contact

Cecil Webb

***@wtg-llc.com Cecil Webb

End

-- Webb Technology Group, LLC., a minority and veteran-owned mobile technology firm specializing in nimble and responsive technology for minority and women-owned businesses has been named the 2017 Diverse Small Business of the Year by the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce during the annual Small Business Celebration.The Diverse Small Business Award is geared towards small businesses that are minority-owned, veteran-owned, service disabled veteran-owned, or LGBT-owned that have demonstrated vision, leadership, and courage by achieving business success while overcoming obstacles and maintaining a strong sense of service for the community."We are honored to receive a distinction as Kansas City's Diverse Small Business of the Year," said Cecil Webb, Principal Owner of Webb Technology Group. "Not only does this validate our efforts to bring more recognition to minority and women-owned businesses, it also let's the business community know that there are qualified diverse small businesses that can serve as strategic partners and vendors. We hope that this award will help us in our mission to serve the underrepresented businesses that we strive to represent."The Small Business Celebration is recognized as one of the largest Chamber small business celebrations in the United States with a series of events throughout the year that supports and celebrates the small business community within the Kansas City region.About Webb Technology GroupWebb Technology Group is a certified Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB), LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE), and an SBA Certified 8(a) firm specializing in mobile application development and responsive web technology solutions for minority, women-owned businesses and government agencies. Their core competencies include app development, responsive website design and social media management. Learn more at www.webbtechnologygroup.com
Pratibha Patil said she was expecting a consensus candidate from the Dalit community.

By India Today Web Desk: In an exclusive interview to India Today, former President Pratibha Patil said she was expecting a consensus candidate from the Dalit community.

"I was expecting a Dalit candidate, but a consensus candidate. Because the President is the head of the country, also the first citizen. It would have been better had the election taken place smoothly and unanimously," Patil told India Today.

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When asked whether the choice of Kovind, a low-key figure, has parallels with her choice as president in 2007, she said there is nothing wrong in being a low-key leader.

"There is nothing wrong in being a low-key leader," Pratibha Patil said adding that you need to have confidence in your work, experience and a genuine desire to work for the people.

"When you become president you take the oath of allegiance to the Constitution," Patil said adding that it is for the second time that India will have a president from the Dalit community after KR Narayanan.

The National Democratic Alliance's nominee for the country's highest constitutional post is a surprise pick of the BJP. The Kanpur-born former lawyer is a Dalit leader and is known for his organisational skills.

Non-NDA parties like BJD, TRS and YSRCP have announced their support to the Dalit leader. Kovind is likely to file his nomination on June 23.

If elected, which appears to be a certainty, the 71-year-old former lawyer would be only the second Dalit to occupy the Rashtrapati Bhavan after K R Narayanan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Kovind's choice as the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) presidential candidate, saying he would make an "exceptional" President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor and the marginalised communities.

Modi also said that Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution would benefit the nation.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar lauded Kovind's term as the state's Governor and said he served "exceedingly well".

"The ideal relationship that should be with the state government...he acted accordingly," Kumar said.

Also read:

Ram Nath Kovind: Why BJP's presidential pick may face Supreme Court test after he is elected

Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind calls himself ordinary citizen, seeks support from all

Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

Also watch:

Presidential election: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is NDA candidate

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Skanska has signed contract to build a new recreation center for Boston College in Massachusetts, USA. The contract is worth 100.9 million (USD 113 million), which will be included in the US order bookings for the second quarter of 2017. Skanska will replace Boston Colleges existing Flynn Recreation Complex with

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A Slovak travel agency moved its offices within the second tower of the modernized Polus Towers office complex in Bratislava. Leasing more than double of the original space area (200 sq m), Kartago Tour centralized all its administrative units under one roof and todays HQ is taking almost 550 sq

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Spains Supreme Court has dismissed appeals against the law which forces telcos in the country to help fund the public broadcaster, RTVE.





Appeals filed by the Asociacion Espanola de Operadores de Telecomunicaciones (REDTEL), DTS, Telefonica de Espana, Cable Europa, SAU and Tenaria have been all rejected.The Supreme Courts decision ratifies the so-called telco tax, the 0.9% of the telcos yearly income that finances RTVE. In fact, since advertising was banned from the public broadcaster in 2010, telcos have become the largest provider of external income to RTVE The law also imposed a tax of 1.5% for pay-TV operators, a sector that almost every telco has entered in recent years.The telcos asked the law to be scrapped as they believe it is contrary to Spains constitution and the European Unions legal framework. The Supreme Court was the last stage of appeal within the Spanish legal system.
Ecuadors Ministry of Telecoms (MINTEL) has stated that there will be no analogue switch-off until digital coverage is secured for 90% of households.





The announcement postpones an already delayed switch-off until 30 June 2018.According to the initial schedule, the gradual switchover to DTT should have started in January 2017. However, by the end of 2016, MINTEL stated that the country was not ready and six more months were needed. MINTEL has established, as one of the main requirements for the digital TV switchover, that at least 90% of the population has to be ready to receive the digital signal at home, the ministry has stated.Ecuador was supposed to be the second Latin American country to switch off analogue broadcasts, after Mexico, but now, Costa Rica and Brazil have overtaken it.
Demand for electronic products, such as smart TVs and phones, in India is forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 41% from 2017-2020 to reach US$400 billion by 2020.





However, to hit such highs, the Government will be required to assist domestic production, according to a joint study by ASSOCHAM and NEC.



Domestic production is currently growing at CAGR of 27% and could reach $104 billion, creating a gap for the import of $300 billion-worth of electronic goods, said the report.



Globally, the electronics industry is valued at $1.75 trillion and is considered the fastest growing industry in the world.



In India, the electronics and hardware market grew by 8.6% year-on-year to reach $75 billion in 2015, driven by increased demand. Indias growing middle class population and increased amounts of disposable income has led to more consumers requiring connected TVs, smartphones and computers in particular. The domestic consumption of electronic hardware in 2014-2015 was $63.6 billion. Of this, 58% was fulfilled through imported goods. During this period, India produced an estimated $32.46 billion worth of electronics hardware, representing around 1.5% of the worlds total production of goods in this sector.



Investments in electronic manufacturing have rocketed in the past few years, with INR110 billion spent in June 2014, compared to INR1278.8 billion last year. Incentives such as the Make in India and Digital India campaigns have helped growth, along with specially focused schemes such as the Modified Special Incentive Package Scheme (M-SIPS) and Electronic Development Fund (EDF).
Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind said he hoped all political parties will support his candidature for the job at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

By India Today Web Desk: As some Opposition parties indicated that they will put up a candidate to counter him for the post of the President, Dalit leader and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind today sought support from all political parties in his race to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He described himself as an "ordinary citizen".

After arriving in Delhi, Kovind met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah to thank them for nominating him as the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) candidate for the post of president.

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"Thanks to PM Modi, Amit Shah and parliamentary board. Hope all political parties will support me," Kovind said adding that he is thankful to all those who chose "this ordinary citizen to handle such big responsibility".

"I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings," Kovind told the media on his arrival from Patna.

Asked if the opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: "I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India."

#WATCH: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind meets PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/dAhXJG9R20; ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on "an ordinary citizen".

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, J.P. Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind arrives in Delhi, will meet PM Modi pic.twitter.com/lI0B2dqux9; ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination: "It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty."

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had "rich culture, rich traditions and lot of heritage".

Asked whether Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar Governor said the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader had made a courtesy call.

"As I am the Governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination."

Also read:

Ram Nath Kovind as presidential candidate: How BJP continues to aggressively woo Dalits

Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

Presidential election 2017: Opposition meets on June 22, may field candidate against BJP nominee

Also watch:

Presidential election: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is NDA candidate

--- ENDS ---

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A district chief has been shot and killed in Afghanistan's western province of Nimroz by gunmen riding on a motorcycle, an Afghan official says.

Ahmad Arab, a spokesman for the provincial governor, says Aqa Mohammad Fazeli was on his way to work when he came under attack by two gunmen on June 19.

The killing took place in the provincial capital, Zaranj.

Fazeli was the chief in the remote Chakhansor district of Nimroz and also a tribal leader in the province, Arab said.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which came as the Taliban stepped up assaults against Afghan security forces as well as government officials across the country.

Based on reporting by AP and HUB Tv


There has been a lot of talk about hydropower in Central Asia since the start of May, and not just from the usual quarters.

Perhaps it's just officials watching the melting snows of spring and envisioning lights coming on in homes and factories across their countries, but hydropower seems to be a hot topic lately.

Of course, it's always been a big issue in mountainous Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, where the immense potential of hydropower has barely been tapped and the great need of the two cash-strapped governments for additional energy makes hydropower especially attractive.

But the really big talk about hydropower in recent days is coming from (drum roll please) ... Uzbekistan.

That's right, the country that for years has continually raised objections -- and occasionally made some threats -- over the construction of large hydropower plants (HPP) in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan has announced it will spend some $4.3 billion on developing hydropower over roughly the next decade.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyaev announced at the start of May that Uzbekistan would place a new emphasis on developing renewable energy resources.

At the start of June, Mirziyaev put his signature on the program to develop hydropower energy in Uzbekistan.

The program aims at constructing 18 new HPPs and modernizing 14 existing HPPs by 2021 at a cost of some $2.65 billion.*

Reports in Uzbek media did not provide many details about the size of the HPPs (mini, small, medium, or large) or their location, though there was least one hint from a trip Mirziyaev made to the southern Syrdarya Province in May when he said a new 15 MW small HPP would be built there.

Reports on the long-term hydroenergy program also mentioned there were other hydropower projects to be realized by 2030 that would cost an additional $1.7 billion.

According to Uzbekistan's program, once all these hydropower projects are completed, hydropower will account for 15.8 percent of the country's energy balance. (It currently accounts for 12.7 percent.)

Before we move on, that's $2.65 billion and $1.7 billion, or $4.35 billion in total, for Uzbekistan's hydroenergy development program.

Remember that number: $4.35 billion. It will be important further down.

Tajikistan is speeding ahead with construction of the Roghun HPP, a massive structure that when finished will generate some 3,600 MW and should make the country not only totally energy independent but allow it to export electricity.

There is need for haste.

Former Uzbek President Islam Karimov, whose death was announced on September 2, was a fierce opponent of construction of the Roghun HPP and the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP in Kyrgyzstan.

Mirziyaev's government has not elucidated its policy toward these large HPPs and, in the absence of a clear Uzbek position on Roghun, Tajikistan moved ahead. Already on October 29, it had blocked part of the Vakhsh River so construction of the Roghun HPP could begin in earnest.

On May 25, Bahodur Akramzoda, deputy chairman of the Majlisi Namoyandagon's committee for economics and the budget, said it is possible that three of the planned six units of the Roghun project could be launched before the end of 2018.



The Italian company Salini Impregilo signed a deal with Tajikistan to finish the Roghun HPP in July 2016. (Construction was started in 1976 when Tajikistan was a Soviet republic but had progressed little by the time the U.S.S.R. disintegrated in 1991 when all work effectively stopped.)



Mirziyaev has not commented directly on Roghun, but as RFE/RL's Kazakh Service, known locally as Azattyq, noted in a recent report, then-Uzbek Prime Minister Mirziyaev responded back in July 2016 to a Tajik deal with Salini Impregilo by sending a note to the Tajiks expressing dissatisfaction with the plan and saying Tajikistan could solve its energy problems without the Roghun HPP.



On June 1, media outlets quoted Boriy Alihanov, the deputy speaker of Uzbekistan's Oliy Majlis, the lower house of parliament, as saying Uzbekistan was for rational and fair use of transborder water sources.



"This also concerns Roghun," Alihanov said, which really doesn't clarify Uzbekistan's position on the HPP.

And for the record, work has been under way for weeks on repairing and modernizing Tajikistan's Nurek HPP that currently provides some 70 percent of the country's electricity.

The World Bank provided a loan of $225.7 million for the project with other money coming from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and Eurasian Development Bank.

Kyrgyzstan seems to have given up on the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP for now. The HPP would provide an additional 1,900 MW of electricity but without any foreign investors at present, the estimated $3 billion cost is prohibitively high for Kyrgyzstan.



Instead, Kyrgyzstan is devoting its attention firstly to overhauling the Toktogul HPP, which provides about 40 percent of the country's electricity.

On May 13, Prime Minister Sooronbay Jeenbekov attended the launch of a project for the reconstruction and modernization of the Toktogul HPP. When completed, it will add 240 MW to the HPP's electricity output and will cost some $120 million.

The work at Toktogul is badly needed as three of the four turbines at the HPP went out of commission in December 2015, temporarily causing electricity shortages to parts of the country.

In mid-May, the government also announced a tender for construction of 14 small HPPs. The HPPs would have capacities of between 3 to 20 MW and would be located, mainly, in remote and mountainous areas of the country.

Duishenbek Zilaliev, the chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy, and Resource Management, pointed out in a recent interview that such HPPs are especially valuable to mountain communities that could find themselves temporarily cut off from the rest of Kyrgyzstan by avalanches and landslides.

There are doubts after the problems with the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP that Kyrgyzstan would be able to attract investors.

But the small HPPs are relatively inexpensive, and on June 15 at least one news source said there were already six companies interested in the projects, though only one was a foreign company.

Kazakhstan has not announced any plans for new HPPs recently, but Astana is hosting an event called EXPO-2017 that is focused on renewable, or green power sources, including hydropower.

Now back to the $4.35 billion Uzbekistan is spending on its hydroenergy program.

As mentioned, construction of Kambar-Ata-1 is estimated to cost some $3 billion and Roghun is estimated to cost some $3.9 billion.

The money Uzbekistan is spending on domestic HPPs is more than enough to build either Kambar-Ata- or Roghun, but Tashkent has not mentioned any plans to take part in the neighbors' HPPs, though both countries have invited Uzbekistan to do so several times.

* Financing of this $2.65 billion is interesting in that it reflects the current general interest in foreign/international investment in Central Asia. Uzbek financial institutions are responsible for coming up with most of the money, but $572.8 million will come as loans and credits from the China Eximbank, $181.1 million from the Islamic Development Bank, $77.3 million from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and $98.4 million from the Asian Development Bank.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect the views of RFE/RL.
Ukrainian troops continue to advance in the direction of Kherson city, the General Staff of the Armed Forces said on November 11, as Russian forces are leaving the southern region following Moscow's order to retreat from the west bank of the Dnieper River.

A Russian rocket attack on the southern city of Mykolaiyv killed at least two civilians overnight, local officials said early on November 11.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Russia said it began withdrawing troops from the strategic city on November 10. The General Staff said the withdrawal was taking place slowly to allow the Russian forces to reinforce positions on the other bank of the Dnieper River.

Kherson controls both the only land route to Ukraine's Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula and the mouth of the Dnieper, which bisects Ukraine.

The General Staff said retreating Russian forces have been looting homes and destroying critical infrastructure, while forcibly evicting residents from the settlements still under their control.

"The Russian invaders continue to loot the settlements from which they are retreating. The enemy is also attempting to damage power lines and other elements of the transport and critical infrastructure of the Kherson region as much as possible," the military said, adding that Russian mines continue to wound civilians.

"In the village of Zelenivka, the enemy forbade residents to move around and is reinforcing the system of defensive lines. In Tyahinka and Kozatskiy, the occupiers mined roads and infrastructure elements, there are instances of detonations [harming] the civilian population," the military reported.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said that Ukrainian forces have liberated dozens of settlements in the south of the country, but noted the brutal struggle and the lives given for freedom for Ukrainians.

Fierce fighting continues in Bakhmut and Soledar in the eastern Donetsk region as well as in the adjacent Luhansk region, the military said, adding that heavy Russian shelling pounded about 20 settlements in the Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhya, and Mykolaiyv regions.

In his nightly address late on November 10, Zelenskiy said: "Today we have good news from the south. The number of Ukrainian flags returning to their rightful place within the framework of the ongoing defense operation is already dozens. He added that 41 settlements have been liberated.

But he said that, even as Ukrainians rejoice, they must remember that "every step by our defense forces represents...lives given for the freedom of Ukrainians. Everything that is happening now has been achieved by months of brutal struggle. It was achieved through courage, pain, and losses.

Zelenskiy did not specify the number of Ukrainian troops killed in the effort to reclaim the settlements, where he said stabilization measures have begun.

He said Russian troops left behind thousands of landmines and ammunition as they retreated from Kherson.

Presidential adviser Mykhaylo Podolyak said the landmines turned Kherson into a city of death and predicted they would shell it from occupied areas across the Dnieper River.

Vitaliy Kim, the regional military administration chief in the Mykolayiv region, said Ukrainian soldiers had already entered the outer suburbs of Kherson. He declined to give further details to avoid revealing the military's plans.

Kim said that Russian forces launched rockets on Mykolayiv city, hitting an apartment block and killing two people and wounding two.

He added that Russian troops "responded to our armed forces with a rocket attack on a five-story residential building. Two dead, two wounded."

The mayor of Mykolayiv, Oleksandr Sienkovych, said that the impact caused the destruction of the building from the fifth to the first floor.

Rescue workers were continuing with a search and rescue operation, Sienkovych said.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said it will take Russia at least a week to withdraw from the city of Kherson. He told Reuters in an interview that Russia had 40,000 troops in the Kherson region and that it still had forces in the city, around the city, and on the west bank of the Dnieper River.

"It's not that easy to withdraw these troops from Kherson in one day or two days. As a minimum, [it will take] one week," he said.

Ukrainian army chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy said earlier that Kyiv could not yet confirm whether Russia was indeed pulling out from the southern Kherson region but said that Ukrainian forces were continuing their advance.

"We continue to conduct the offensive operation in line with our plan," he wrote in a post on Telegram.

Ukrainian officials said Moscows forces had no choice but to flee Kherson, yet they remained cautious, fearing an ambush.

Recapturing the city could provide Ukraine with a launching pad for supplies and troops to try to win back other lost territory in the south, including Crimea, which Moscow seized in 2014.

With reporting by AP, Reuters, and dpa
LUXEMBOURG -- European Union foreign ministers have prolonged the bloc's investment ban against Crimea for another year.

The sanctions were adopted in 2014 in response to Russia's illegal annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula, and have since been extended on a yearly basis.

The measures, which were prolonged on June 19, include an EU-wide ban on imports from Crimea unless they have Ukrainian certificates, a prohibition of the purchase by EU companies of property and companies on the Black Sea peninsula, and a ban on cruise ships flying the flag of an EU member state or controlled by a member state to call at ports there.

Goods and technology for the transport, telecommunications, and energy sectors also cannot be exported to Crimean companies or for use in Crimea under the ban.

The EU's economic sanctions that hit Russian banking and energy sector are likely to be discussed briefly when EU leaders meet in Brussels on June 22.

EU diplomats told RFE/RL that they believed those measures will be rolled-over for another six months at the end of the month.

On June 19 in Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated that Russia considers EUs sanctions illegitimate.

"Moreover, we believe that they harm not only us but the countries that initiated them," he said.
Eight months after his Republican Party suffered a crushing defeat in the October parliamentary elections, former parliament speaker Davit Usupashvili has formally launched a new centrist opposition party, the Development Movement, that he hopes will make a strong enough showing in the election due in 2020 to form a coalition government.

Such a government would be well-placed to transform a barren political landscape in which unceasing recriminations between the current ruling Georgian Dream party and its predecessor, the United National Movement, have already resulted in profound polarization, the eclipse of virtually all other political forces, and the alienation and disillusion of much of the electorate.

Announcing his planned return to politics in late April, Usupashvili said his new party will be grounded in both national and European culture and tradition. In that respect, it could be the ideological successor to the unequivocally pro-Western, liberal, center-right Republican Party that Usupashvili quit immediately after the election defeat, citing political, value, and tactical disagreements with other leading members over its future.

Usupashvili described the Development Movement as new in its form, its nature, and the way it will do things. That is in line with his pronouncement in October that "the 2020 election should be won by a political force of a new type, which would have the full capability to govern the country and will carry in its genetic code the values of multiparty democracy."

Usupashvili explained the need for such a new approach in a lengthy analysis posted on Facebook in late April. He argued that its taking a dangerously long time to eradicate the pernicious legacy of the communist past and that none of Georgias leaders over the past quarter century has been able or willing to overcome the us vs. them mentality and the temptation to rely on the use of state power instead of promoting broad civic cooperation in the name of building a strong Georgian state that could guarantee the liberty, welfare, and security of every citizen. Meanwhile, one in five Georgians has left the country and many who remain live in poverty.

Those failings, he argued, and the ensuing popular realization that efforts to build a modern, democratic, European-style state were largely superficial, have given rise to the devaluation and discrediting of fundamental values and to widespread hopelessness and despair. Only a competent, responsible political force that stands firmly on national and European political and cultural ground can change the situation for the better, he suggested.

Specifically, he said the Development Movement will seek to overcome the mutual antagonism and political polarization that imbues Georgian politics, bringing together successful professionals from relevant fields to work together to strengthen Georgian statehood and improve the social and economic environment. That emphasis on consolidation reflects Usupashvilis seemingly tireless efforts as parliament speaker to paper over the differences between the disparate political forces aligned in the Georgian Dream coalition. In a lengthy interview he gave in August to the news portal interpressnews.ge, he described the role he played as parliament speaker as being more that of chief political firefighter. The Development Movement manifesto warns against the temptation for a new government to reject everything its predecessor accomplished and start again from scratch. Instead, the Development Movement has adopted as its credo: We foster whats good. We change whats bad. We create whats lacking.

In light of the perceived threat posed by Russia to Georgias sovereignty, the manifesto also stresses the need to build a state, which will [have] as its foundation the best practices of [our] centuries-old history; strong, democratic institutions will be its load-bearing walls; while the Euro-Atlantic cooperation and security structures will serve as its roof.

Portly and bespectacled, Usupashvili, 49, is a qualified lawyer and one of the team that drafted Georgias first post-Soviet constitution in 1993-95. He is also one of the founders of the Georgian Young Lawyers Association and served as its chairman from 1994-97. In 2003, he joined the protest movement that culminated in the Rose Revolution that toppled then-President Eduard Shevardnadze, but he soon distanced himself from the countrys new ruling triumvirate: Mikheil Saakashvili, Zurab Zhvania, and Nino Burjanadze. He was elected Republican Party chairman in 2005.

The Republican Party was one of 10 that aligned in October 2007 in an opposition National Council that took a stand against what they termed the usurpation of power by then-President Saakashvili and the corruption and political terror that ensued. It was, therefore, logical for the Republican Party to join the election bloc set up in 2012 by wealthy businessman Bidzina Ivanishvilis Georgian Dream party with the aim of putting an end to the United National Movements nine years in power. The precise nature of the disagreements that stopped Georgian Dream forming an analogous election bloc last year -- of which the Republicans would again have been part -- remains unclear.

Running independently, the Republican Party garnered just 1.55 percent of the vote; Usupashvili placed third in the Tbilisi constituency, where he ran as a majoritarian candidate.

The nucleus of the new Development Movement numbers several other prominent former Republican Party members, including Vakhtang Khmaladze, who, like Usupashvili, helped draft the 1995 constitution. But it also includes several leading members of the extraparliamentary opposition National Forum, including its chairman, Kakha Shartava. (The National Forum, too, was one of the 10 founder members in 2007 of the opposition National Council.) Talks between Usupashvili and Shartava on jointly establishing a new party reportedly began late last year.

Usupashvili told a press conference in Tbilisi on June 16 that his new movement will participate in the municipal elections due this fall. Then, after its formal registration in spring 2018, it will focus on the 2020 parliamentary elections. Usupashvili was quoted by the website civil.ge on January 18 as saying he has no intention of participating in either the Tbilisi mayoral elections in 2017 or the presidential election in 2018.

While political commentators have noted the need for a new alternative to both Georgian Dream and the now divided United National Movement, some have expressed doubts that Usupashvilis new Development Movement will prove attractive to voters who no longer trust either. On the plus side, a recent opinion poll ranked Usupashvili personally fifth in popularity among Georgian politicians, after President Giorgi Margvelashvili, Health Minister Davit Sergeenko, Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili, and Davit Bakradze, who heads the European Georgia party that split earlier this year from the United National Movement.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect those of RFE/RL.
Over the past five years, Iranian officials and state media have touted the "indigenous" ingenuity in the Islamic republic's mass-produced Mohajer-6 combat drone, which Russia has deployed in its war against Ukraine.

But a new investigation by Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, has found that electronic components underpinning Tehran's production of the Mohajer-6 are far from homegrown.



The Mohajer-6 drones contain components produced by companies from the United States and the European Union, both of which have sanctions restricting the export to Iran of such technology that can be used for both civilian and military purposes  dual-use technology.

The presence of these components in the Mohajer-6 does not mean their producers are in violation of U.S. or EU sanctions, and RFE/RL does not have evidence that this is the case.

The investigation also found Mohajer-6 components produced in China, including a real-time mini-camera made by a Hong Kong firm that said it was "very sorry" that its products were being used in war.

At least one major foreign-produced component of the Mohajer-6 has previously been identified by reporters in a Mohajer-6 recovered from the battlefield by the Ukrainian military: an engine made by the Austrian manufacturer BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co KG, a subsidiary of the Canadian company Bombardier Recreational Products.

But Ukrainian intelligence assesses that the Iranian combat drone contains components from nearly three dozen different technology companies based in North America, the EU, Japan, and Taiwan, the Schemes investigation has found. A majority of these companies are based in the United States.



A Schemes reporter who personally inspected the foreign-made drone parts identified components produced by at least 15 of these manufacturers.

These include parts made by the U.S. technology firm Texas Instruments, which said in a statement that it does not sell into Russia or Iran and complies with applicable laws and regulations.

To identify these components, Schemes reporters examined parts of the Mohajer-6 drone that the Ukrainian military shot down over the Black Sea near the Mykolayiv region coastal town of Ochakiv. They also reviewed Ukrainian intelligence records on the sources of these components.

The drone also contains a microchip bearing the logo of a California technology company and a thermal-imaging camera that Ukrainian intelligence says may have been produced by a firm based in Oregon or China.

Both Western officials and experts on illicit technology transfers say Iran has built a broad, global procurement network using front companies and other proxies in third countries to obtain dual-use technology from the United States and the EU.

"Exporters will look at the request coming from the [United Arab Emirates] or another third country, and they'll think that they're selling to an end user based there, when really the end user is in Iran," Daniel Salisbury, a senior research fellow with the Department of War Studies at King's College London, told RFE/RL.

In September, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions specifically targeting Iranian companies that Washington links to the production and transfer of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Russia for deployment in its war on Ukraine. Fighting rages with no sign of an end more than eight months after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched an unprovoked invasion on February 24.

"Non-Iranian, non-Russian entities should also exercise great caution to avoid supporting either the development of Iranian UAVs or their transfer, or sale of any military equipment to Russia for use against Ukraine," U.S. Undersecretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said in a statement announcing the sanctions.

Chinese Cameras, California Chips

Development of the Mohajer-6, the latest model in a series of drones Tehran has used since the 1980s Iran-Iraq War, began in 2017, while mass production began the following year. During a ceremony commemorating the Islamic Revolution, then-Iranian Defense Minister Amir Hatami said that the new tactical drone could perform surveillance, reconnaissance, as well as help destroy targets.

Hatami extolled what he described as the drones domestic design, a portrayal echoed in later reports by Iranian media.

"The homegrown drone was made through cooperation among the army, Defense Ministry, and Quds Aviation Industries," the English-language Tehran Times quoted an Iranian military official as saying in July 2019.

The dismantling of the Mohajer-6 drone recovered by the Ukrainian military shows that the UAV is packed with foreign components.

One of these parts is a bright-orange real-time mini-camera produced by the Hong Kong-based company RunCam Technology. Documents seen by Schemes show that Ukrainian intelligence has also identified RunCam as the producer of the camera, which likely assists in remote guidance of the drone.

Founded in 2013, RunCam is involved in the development and production of so-called "first-person-view" real-time cameras. "Our users are our friends," the company's website states. The site says that RunCam has two authorized Iranian dealers.

Reached by Schemes for comment about the use of its camera in the Iranian drone deployed by Russia in its war on Ukraine, RunCam said in an e-mailed response: "We are very sorry to know that RunCam's products were used in warfare. RunCam is specialized in producing products for model aircraft hobby. We never contact any customer related to military."

The provenance of the Mohajer-6 drone-s thermal-imaging camera is more difficult to determine. A Ukrainian intelligence assessment reviewed by Schemes indicates it could be the Ventus Hot model produced by Sierra-Olympic Technologies, based in the U.S. state of Oregon, but that it also resembles a cheaper analog available for sale by the Chinese company Qingdao Thundsea Marine Technology.

Qingdao Thundsea Marine Technology said in an e-mailed statement that the company did not "have any business with Iran," because "it will affect our business." The company said it specializes in marine services and is not involved in manufacturing. It also said that it did not have a single successful order for its online advertisement of the thermal-imaging camera resembling the one recovered from the Iranian drone.

Sierra-Olympic Technologies did not respond to a request for comment on the possible use of its thermal-imaging cameras in Iranian combat drones in time for publication.

Microchips recovered from the drone also featured the logos of the California-based company Linear Technology Corporation and its parent company, the Massachusetts-based semiconductor company Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI). ADI did not respond to an e-mailed request for comment on the possible use of its technology in the Iranian combat drone.

Schemes reporters also observed among the components of the Iranian drone a voltage step-down converter produced by Texas Instruments. The company said in an e-mailed statement that it "does not sell into Russia, Belarus, or Iran."

"TI complies with applicable laws and regulations in the countries where we operate, and does not support or condone the use of our products in applications they weren't designed for," Texas Instruments said.

Schemes reporters also saw several components produced by the California-based technology manufacturer Xilinx, whose parent company is the multinational semiconductor company Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), also based in California.

According to Ukrainian intelligence, one of these Xilinx components was integrated into a video data-link module located in the wing of the Mohajer-6 that helped carry out attack missions.

"This module transmits information from the board to the missile head. That is, guidance for the missile. With the help of this module, it was possible to guide the missile to the target," a Ukrainian military intelligence representative told Schemes.

AMD did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication.

'No Authorization'

Previous media reports about the components of the Mohajer-6 drone, including by CNN, have shown evidence that its engine was produced by the Austrian manufacturer BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co KG, whose parent company is the Quebec-based Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP).

The Canadian company responded to the reports on October 21, saying in a statement that it "has not authorized and has not given any authorization to its distributors to supply military UAV manufacturers in Iran or Russia."

"As soon as we were made aware of this situation, we started an investigation to determine the source of the engines," BRP said. .

But Schemes reporters found that the authorized Rotax distributor listed on the Austrian manufacturer's website advertised itself as a Rotax aircraft engines distributor for Iran as recently as December 2020.

The distributor, the Italian company Luciano Sorlini S.p.a., has posted multiple magazine advertisements on its websites in which it describes itself as a Rotax distributor for numerous countries. Prior to January 2021, Iran was listed among these countries.

The Rotax website also lists a Tehran-based company -- MahtaWing -- as an official service center for its engines. The company, known in Persian as Mahtabal, conducts repairs of Rotax engines, including the Rotax 912 iS, the engine that was found in the Mohajer-6 combat drone recovered in Ukraine.

BRP said in an e-mailed statement on November 4 that while Luciano Sorlini S.p.a. is the appointed distributor of Rotax aircraft engines in Iran, "since 2019, no Rotax engines have been sold in Iran, and we will not sell any engines to Iran moving forward."

The Canadian company said it had "internal controls" that "significantly" restrict the sale of its products for military purposes.

"For example, the sale of any BRP product to operators with any military activity in Iran, Turkey, and Russia is strictly prohibited," BRP said. "We conduct our business in compliance with all EU, Canadian, and U.S. applicable regulations."

BRP described the Iranian company MahtaWing as a "local service center" that "offers maintenance services for previously sold aircraft engines."

Shahriar Siami of RFE/RL's Radio Farda contributed to this report.
To decide their candidate and finalise a strategy for the presidential election, the Opposition parties will meet on June 22.

By India Today Web Desk: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) background of Ram Nath Kovind and the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) decision to not discuss names before announcing his name as presidential candidate has left many Opposition parties furious.

To decide their candidate and finalise a strategy for the presidential election, the Opposition parties will meet on June 22 after which they are expected to announce their own candidate as rival to Kovind.

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This is what the Opposition parties have to say on NDA's pick:

Congress:

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said BJP informed them about their Presidential candidate only after they took a unilateral decision.

He said the BJP left no scope for consensus which wasn't being expected by the Congress.

"Congress does not want to comment on this issue as we want to take a unanimous decision with all other opposition parties on the presidential elections. The final call will be taken in a meeting of all opposition parties on June 22," Azad told reporters here.

Trinamool Congress:

Trinamool Congress slammed the ruling NDA over the choice of the top constitutional post.

Trinamool spokesperson Derek O'Brien said they learnt about Kovind's candidature after his name was announced at the BJP press conference.

"That's how we got to know. Not even informed," the Trinamool leader said.

Trinamool supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said someone of the stature of incumbent President Pranab Mukherjee or External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj or BJP patrairch L K Advani may have been made the presidential candidate.

How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today ? I did. #RamNathKovind; Derek O'Brien (@quizderek) June 19, 2017

CPI(M):

"Ramnath Kovind is an RSS leader. It means he comes from a political ideology. Therefore it is a political fight," CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury told reporters after the name of the Bihar Governor as a BJP-led NDA candidate was announced.

Indicating that they will soon come out with a candidate of their choice, CPI(M) leader Yechury said only during the emergency period the presidential election had gone uncontested.

"There has always been a contest. That has been the tradition and history of our country," he said.

Yechury said during the initial round of consultation, the Opposition parties were told that the government will get back to them when the candidate will be decided.

"There has been no consultation after that. They announced their candidate," he said.

Bahujan Samaj Party:

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati said as Kovind is a Dalit their party is positive on his name till the Opposition doesn't comes up with a popular Dalit name.

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"We are also of the opinion that it would have been better if NDA had named some non-political Dalit person as President's nominee," Mayawati said.

Nationalist Congress Party:

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will be a part of the UPA members' meeting to be held in Delhi on June 22 to decide on their presidential candidate.

"All parties part of the UPA will meet on June 22 at 4 pm to decide on who would be our presidential candidate. The NCP too will be a part of it," party spokesperson Nawab Malik said.

Janata Dal-United:

Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) leader Nitish Kumar was non-committal on whether his will support Kovind.

"Kovind has discharged his duties in an unbiased manner as the Bihar Governor. He has worked as per the Constitution and upheld the dignity of the Governor's post. His was an ideal relation with the state government," Nitish Kumar said after meeting Kovind at Raj Bhavan in Patna.

He said he congratulated Kovind, a Dalit leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party, on his nomination as the National Democratic Alliance candidate, and added that "I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate". Also read:

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Ram Nath Kovind, Bihar Governor and a Dalit, is NDA's Presidential nominee

Ram Nath Kovind: All you need to know about NDA's pick for President

Also watch:

Ram Nath Kovind is NDA's pick for president: Who said what

--- ENDS ---
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The United States says it "strongly condemns" an attack near a London mosque in which a van plowed into worshippers in the early hours of June 19.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said "the United States strongly condemns last night's attack that appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers in London."

"We extend our sympathies to the families and community of the victims and our hopes for the quick recovery of those wounded, Nauert said. She called the incident a terrorist attack.

Authorities say at least nine people were injured when the vehicle swerved into a group of people as they left prayers at the Muslim Welfare House and the nearby Finsbury Park Mosque in north London.

A man, who had earlier suffered a heart attack, died at the scene, but it was not clear if his death was connected to the van attack. Police said all the victims were Muslim.

The driver -- identified by media as Darren Osborne -- was grabbed at the scene by locals and pinned down until police arrived.

London police say a 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of terror offenses.

"He has further been arrested for the commission, preparation, or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder," Scotland Yard police headquarters said in a statement.

The statement also said that searches were being carried out at a residential address in the Cardiff area in Wales.

Earlier, British Prime Minister Theresa May called the attack a "sickening" attempt to destroy the freedom to worship.

"It was an attack that once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives, this time British Muslims as they left a mosque after prayers," she said, referring to recent terrorist attacks in Manchester and London.

She added that the attack was "a reminder that terrorism, extremism, and hatred take many forms and our determination to tackle them must be the same, whoever is responsible."

May also said the driver of the van acted alone and that police would provide additional protection needed for mosques.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) said the attack was the most violent manifestation of Islamophobia in Britain in recent months and called for extra security at places of worship.



The MCB said on Twitter that the incident occurred near the Finsbury Park Mosque and that a van "intentionally" hit worshipers leaving the mosque. The council called on the authorities to increase security around mosques.

The MCB said on Twitter that "we have been informed that a van has run over worshipers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims."

The MCB later said on Twitter that the incident occurred outside the Muslim Welfare House, which is near the mosque. The Welfare House, on Seven Sisters Road, provides social, educational, and training services for "marginalized and ethnic communities," according to its website.

WATCH: Video Shows Man Arrested After London Mosque Attack

The authorities said the male driver of the van "was found detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police."

The incident occurred during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when people attend prayers at night.

The mosque itself gained notoriety for sermons by radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 after his conviction on terrorism-related charges. The mosque was shut down and reorganized in 2005 and has not been linked to extremist views.

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd says police "immediately" treated the incident outside a London mosque as a suspected terrorist attack.

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said the attack was "an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom, and respect."

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, who is the MP for the area, said he was totally shocked.

The World Jewish Congress condemned what it described as the abhorrent and vicious attack carried out against innocent people gathered to worship during the holy month of Ramadan."

Britain has been hit by a series of attacks in recent months, including a van-and-knife attack on London Bridge and a nearby market on June 3 that killed eight people and injured dozens.

On March 22, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a policeman to death before being shot dead. Five people were killed in that attack.

On May 22, a suicide bomber killed 22 people at a concert by American pop singer Ariana Grande in Manchester in northern England.

The attacks played a role in campaigning ahead of the June 8 election, with Prime Minister May criticized for overseeing a drop of 20,000 in the number of police officers in England and Wales as home secretary from 2010 to 2016.

With reporting by AP, AFP, Reuters, Sky News, and the BBC


State media in Turkmenistan are reporting that President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov has pardoned more than 1,000 prisoners.

Media outlets quote Berdymukhammedov as saying that the amnesty is linked to the Night of Blessing, which is observed by Muslims during their holy month of Ramadan.

His predecessor, Saparmurat Niyazov, issued similar amnesty decrees once a year during Ramadan.

Berdymukhammedov, an authoritarian ruler who controls all aspects of Turkmen society, has issued such decrees several times a year, usually on the eve of state holidays.

His last clemency, announced in February, pardoned 828 inmates on the eve of the Central Asian country's Flag Day holiday.

Such amnesties usually do not cover inmates convicted on politically motivated charges.

Based on reports by turkmenistan.gov.tm and AFP


KYIV -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko may have pulled off a small coup in winning an audience with U.S. President Donald Trump before Russian leader Vladimir Putin could.



Judging from the deafening silence coming from the White House, however, its a small coup that the U.S. administration doesnt seem interested in publicizing.



When Poroshenko meets Trump for the first time, scheduled for June 20, he could have some explaining to do, and even perhaps some groveling.



Members of Poroshenkos administration, including his ambassador to Washington and Ukrainian lawmakers, were openly critical of Trump and supportive of his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, during the 2016 election.



Many ended up deleting critical remarks about Trump they had published on their social-media accounts after his election victory.



The American president has shown a penchant for flattery, and according to Vladimir Fesenko, the well-connected director at Kyivs Penta Center for Political Studies, that isn't something lost on Poroshenko. The Ukrainian leader will present Trump with a belated birthday gift to kick off their meeting, Fesenko said, citing his own sources.



Poroshenkos communications team has described previous phone calls between the Ukrainian president and Trump as cordial and positive. Behind closed doors, however, some Ukrainian officials have told RFE/RL that the tone of those calls was serious, and one expressed serious concern about Trumps commitment to Ukraine.



We have no idea if [Trump] will keep his promises, because he can often change his mind overnight, one Ukrainian official with knowledge of the phone calls said recently, speaking anonymously because he wasnt authorized to speak to the media. Also, we know what he says about Putin. Its always, Blah, blah, blah, hes so great.



In a statement late on June 19, the White House said that Poroshenko and Vice President Mike Pence would "drop in" for a visit with Trump in the Oval Office on the morning of June 20.



The Poroshenko trip is being described as a working visit by Ukrainian officials, not a full-blown state visit, which would involve great pageantry and symbolism. According to a Ukrainian administration official, in addition to talks with Pence, Poroshenko will also meet defense officials, military leaders, the secretaries of trade and energy, and heads of both chambers of Congress. That schedule has not been made public, either.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin, who met both Trump and Pence during a trip to Washington last month and on the same day as his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, will be by Poroshenkos side.



Poroshenkos press secretary, Svyatoslav Tsegolko, did not respond to requests for further details about the trip. On June 19, he confirmed in a post to Twitter that the president was en route to Washington on a working visit.

The trip comes ahead of Trump's first scheduled meeting with Putin, at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7-8. That meeting will be closely watched for clues about the White House's thinking about Russian ties.



The Poroshenko trip also follows reports that the conflict between Ukrainian armed forces and Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine has intensified yet again, despite the peace deal known as the Minsk accords.



At least 10,090 people, including 2,777 civilians, have been killed in the conflict since it began in April 2014, according to the United Nations.

Lethal Weapons



Poroshenko is expected to raise the question of greater American military support, specifically providing Ukraine's armed forces with lethal weapons.



Ukraine has repeatedly requested more advanced weaponry like Javelin antitank missiles to better defend itself against Russia-backed separatist forces. Defense officials have also complained about the poor quality of equipment previously provided: old Humvees that frequently break down, drones that are missing cameras or are easily jammed by Russian equipment.



Trumps predecessor, Barack Obama, refused to supply lethal weaponry, fearing that would escalate the war, instead limiting equipment to things like flak jackets, night-vision goggles, and radar systems to counter artillery.

But the refusal to send more advanced arms was criticized by many Ukrainian soldiers, who were pummeled by Russia-supplied heavy artillery at the peak of the conflict in summer 2014 and winter 2015. It was also criticized by many lawmakers and policymakers in Washington, Republicans and Democrats alike.



While there is bipartisan support in Congress for supplying new weaponry, Trump has not signaled whether he would consider doing so. Poroshenko may try to get a direct answer on that.

Poroshenkos message will be that it is not possible to move on any political solutions [to end the conflict] if there is no security on the ground, said Olexiy Haran, a professor of comparative politics at the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and academic director of Democratic Initiatives Foundation, a think tank.



Even if Trump were to agree to support Ukraine with arms, the move would unlikely change anything on the battlefield, merely giving Poroshenko good publicity at home, Mark Galeotti, a senior researcher at the Institute of International Relations in Prague, told RFE/RL.



American military assistance is symbolic but not likely to make a difference on the line of contact, he said, referring to the front line.



Russia Sanctions



Poroshenko will also be looking to get a firm commitment from Trump that he wont roll back the U.S. sanctions imposed on Russia over its annexation of Crimea and military support for separatists, Haran told RFE/RL.



Kyiv received a positive sign last week when the Senate overwhelmingly passed legislation prohibiting Trump from rolling back sanctions without Congresss approval. But some officials in Kyiv were concerned by Secretary of State Rex Tillersons comments to lawmakers, asking them not to restrict the White Houses ability to negotiate with Russia.



The Senate legislation must still be taken up by the House of Representatives, and the White House reportedly plans to push Republican members for a friendlier sanctions deal.



One of Ukraines great fears is that Trumps administration may cut a deal to end the conflict with Putin at Ukraines expense. Thats a fear fueled by Trumps repeated calls for a more conciliatory policy toward Moscow.



Poroshenko will use this opportunity to clearly explain to Trump the Ukrainian position on Crimea and eastern Ukraine, so that he could use this information in subsequent negotiations with Putin, Fesenko said.



Financial Support And Business Deals



Washington is Kyivs biggest financial backer, providing around $4 billion in direct aid and loan guarantees since the conflict with Russia erupted in 2014 through 2016. If Poroshenko wants to keep it that way, he will have to prove to Trump that U.S. support for Ukraine is a worthy investment, Haran said.



It is important for Trump to have visible results, Haran said.



For that, Poroshenko will be able to boast of the many reforms carried out that earned Ukrainians visa-free travel to most European Union countries.



Poroshenko, himself a businessman, will likely try to appeal to Trumps love for great business deals, Haran said.



He can say that stability in Ukraine also benefits American companies doing business in Ukraine or those that are considering doing business there, Haran said.



Answering The Big Question



But Poroshenko could do all of those things and still come up short if he cant do one very important thing, Galeotti said.



The Ukrainian president must provide Trump with an answer to a question posed recently by Tillerson to European diplomats in April: Why should U.S. taxpayers care about Ukraine?



The most important thing Poroshenko can do is convince Trump that Ukraine matters, Galeotti said.


WASHINGTON -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has extolled his country's commitment to democracy and ongoing reforms as he pushed U.S. President Donald Trump for support in a meeting hailed by Kyiv but downplayed by the U.S. administration.

Poroshenko's first meeting with Trump came before Trump's expected first encounter with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the G20 summit in Germany next month -- a feat celebrated in Ukraine, which is fighting Russia-backed separatists in its east.

But the low-key nature of the meetings in the U.S. capital on June 20 signaled that the White House was wary of angering the Kremlin.

"That's a great honor and a great pleasure to be to be together with you, dear Mr. President, one of the most reliable supporter and strategic partner for Ukraine," Poroshenko told Trump in the Oval Office.

"We are really fighting to bring freedom and democracy. And with a very strong support in the security and defense sector, support of our reforms, support of my 45 million nation, of the country who is the biggest in the European continent, and I am absolutely confident that Ukraine is a story of success," he said. "And I am proud to have you, Mr. President, and the United States as a co-sponsor of this story of success."

Trump, in his brief remarks before reporters, praised the tenor of their talks.

"We've had some very, very good discussions. It's going to continue throughout the day and I think a lot of progress has been made. It's a great honor to have you, Mr. President," he said.

A brief White House statement released after the meeting said the two discussed "support for the peaceful resolution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine and President Poroshenko's reform agenda and anticorruption efforts."

On the eve of the White House visit, Poroshenko specifically pointed to the fact that he had met the U.S. leader before Putin did, calling it "very important."

The White House, however, described the events ahead of time more modestly, saying Trump would be meeting with his national security adviser "with a drop-in by Vice President Mike Pence and President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine."

Poroshenko did get a boost from the U.S. Treasury Department, which announced new sanctions against dozens of separatist fighters, leaders, and their allies, who have been fighting Ukrainian forces in the eastern Donbas region for more than three years.

Prominent on the list of those targeted was a Russian named Dmitry Utkin, who is believed to be the head of an unregistered, private military-contracting agency that has recruited soldiers fighting in eastern Ukraine.

Also included was a company linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg businessman who has provided catering to the Kremlin. He was targeted by the Treasury Department last year.

Among the subjects Poroshenko was expected to raise with U.S. officials was the need to maintain the U.S. economic sanctions imposed on top Russian government officials after Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

Trump, and some close allies, have suggested sanctions could be eased as part of a larger deal with Moscow. Asked by reporters about that after the meeting with Poroshenko, White House spokesman Sean Spicer appeared to endorse the existing sanctions.

"I mean obviously that's part of the reason there are sanctions is because until...[the Russians] are out of eastern Ukraine we are going to continue to have sanctions on Russia and we believe that is part of Ukraine and so therefore until those...those sanctions will remain," Spicer said. "It was something that obviously came up in discussions with the [Ukrainian] president today. We will continue to advocate for them."

Poroshenko was also expected to hold talks with officials from the U.S. State, Defense, Commerce, and Energy departments.

The Ukrainian leader has been angling for a meeting with Trump since before Trump took office in January.

Polls have shown Poroshenko's popularity falling dramatically since he was elected in 2014, with many Ukrainians skeptical of his ability to combat Russian aggression and bring an end to the war. Many Ukrainians are disillusioned with unfulfilled promises to root out the country's notoriously entrenched corruption.

Securing any meeting at all would have played well with many Ukrainians, but a direct meeting with Trump, before Putin had the chance to meet with Trump, may help shore up some support from outside his core supporters.

During his visit, Poroshenko hailed the U.S. Senate's recent decision to introduce new sanctions against Russia, saying that measures were a civilized mechanism "to force the aggressor to get away from Ukraine" and withdraw troops and equipment.

The U.S. Senate last week voted overwhelmingly for the sanctions aimed at punishing Russia for meddling in the 2016 U.S. election and to force Trump to get Congress's approval before easing any existing sanctions.

The sanctions legislation still must be approved by the House of Representatives. A vote is not yet scheduled.

Poroshenko's visit comes as the conflict between Ukrainian armed forces and the Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine is reportedly intensifying despite a peace deal known as the Minsk accord.

The Minsk peace agreement, brokered by France and Germany and signed by Russia and Ukraine in February 2015, calls for a cease-fire, the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the front lines, and constitutional reforms to give eastern Ukraine more autonomy.

A United Nations report on June 13 said at least 10,090 people, including 2,777 civilians, have been killed during the conflict since it began in April 2014.

Several U.S. analysts said that even in the absence of clear substantive statements, Poroshenko's visit was more of a victory than anything.

"The Ukrainians can make the argument for glass half-full with this meeting, but at the same time there are also a lot of commitments I think that the Ukrainians would like to get but still have not been given yet," said Michael Kimmage, who oversaw Russia and Ukraine issues while working on the Policy Planning Staff at the U.S. State Department.

Still, Kimmage said, it's still unlikely that the Trump White House will agree to the long-standing Ukrainian request to supply more advanced lethal weaponry, to aid its armed forces' fight against Russia-backed separatists.

"Everything that [the Trump administration] has said so far about Ukraine leads one to believe they would be if anything more reluctant to send lethal weapons than the Obama administration was," he told RFE/RL. "It seems with sanctions they are very much on the same page with the previous administration, but I would be shocked to see the provision of lethal weapons."

With reporting by Christopher Miller in Kyiv, Reuters, and AP
Adult marijuana use rose significantly in states that passed loosely regulated medical marijuana laws (MMLs) according to a new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health and Columbia University Medical Center. Highest increases were reported among adults ages 26 and over. Little change was found in past-month marijuana use among adolescents or young adults between the ages 18 and 25. The findings are published online in the journal Addiction.

Adults 26 years of age and older living in states with less regulated medical marijuana programs increased past-month marijuana use from 4 percent to 6.59 percent after the laws were enacted. No significant change was found in the prevalence of cannabis use disorder among adolescents or adults after states enacted medical marijuana laws, regardless whether programs were highly regulated or "loose."

Using data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health from 2004-2013 the researchers analyzed trends over time with particular emphasis on age groups. This included obtaining prevalences of marijuana use outcomes at the state level by year and whether the enacted laws included a highly regulated ("medicalized") or less regulated ("non-medical") program. Participants were classified as having marijuana abuse or dependence based on DSM-IV criteria.

"In addition to the increase in rates of marijuana use among this age group, we found that the magnitude of impact on rates of marijuana use was greatest among heavy users," said Silvia Martins, MD, PhD, professor of Epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health, and senior author. Findings showed an annual increase in near-daily users of 2.36 percent.

There remains concern that with the increase in prevalence of marijuana use, especially heavy use, there will be a proportionate increase in the percent of the population meeting diagnostic criteria for cannabis use disorder. "If this is the case, states with non-medical or lax programs may bear the brunt of this increase, especially among adults over age 25," noted Arthur Robin Williams, MD, fellow, Department of Psychiatry at Columbia, and first author of the study.

However, it may be too early to detect trends regarding the prevalence of cannabis use disorder as the time lag between initiation of marijuana use, escalation of use, and meeting diagnostic criteria for the disorder is often several years.

"We believe our current, largely negative findings however cannot definitely rule out impending increases in cannabis use disorder without further study. The effects of changes in marijuana use prevalences might only be reflected with analyses conducted in future years with more data points," said Dr. Martins.

As of the November 2016 election, 28 states and Washington D.C. had legalized the use of marijuana for medical indications through the passage of medical marijuana laws either by voter initiative or legislative action. Additionally, 8 states and Washington D.C. (all of which allow for medical marijuana) have now fully legalized the recreational use of marijuana by adults over age 21. In addition to differing combinations of these laws, states also vary tremendously in regulations guiding their programs and participant eligibility.

Drs. Martins and Williams recommend further investigation of key aspects of regulation that are currently lacking among non-medical programs. These include active physician oversight, requiring participation in state-licensed dispensaries, and the use of state-licensed products as they may have greater influence on individual morbidity and social costs than the mere passage of medical marijuana laws.

"While the United States has entered a new era of marijuana control policy over the past two decades, our findings strongly suggest researchers should not treat all states with medical marijuana laws uniformly," said Dr. Martins.
Bringing renewable power 'by wire' from western China to its power-hungry Eastern cities could have benefits for both local air quality and global climate change, new research has found.

The study, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, examined if ongoing power transmission capacity investment in China -- driven largely by concerns over air pollution -- could also reduce local adverse health impacts from air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.

China is the world's top carbon emitter, and suffers from severe air pollution. It recently committed to improve air quality and to peak its CO2 emissions by 2030. The research team carried out a quantitative evaluation of the potential air quality, health and climate implications of long-distance energy by wire strategies.

Lead author Dr Wei Peng, from Harvard University, said: "We examined one possibility that could potentially address both problems: using long-distance electricity transmission to bring renewable power to the polluted eastern provinces."

"Using cutting edge atmospheric modelling and recent epidemiological data, we found that transmitting a hybrid of 60 per cent renewable power and 40 per cent coal -- known as hybrid-by-wire -- reduces 20 per cent more national air-pollution-associated deaths, and decreases three times more carbon emissions, than transmitting only coal-based electricity."

The study also found that, although transmitting coal power was slightly more effective at reducing air pollution impacts than simply replacing old coal power plants with newer, cleaner ones in the east, both coal scenarios had approximately the same carbon emissions.

Co-author Professor Denise Mauzerall, from Princeton University, said: "Our findings have several policy implications. First, it's critical that transmission planning is coordinated with renewable energy use to maximise the combined air quality and climate benefits from energy-by-wire plans. This sort of coordination can better exploit renewable resources in remote areas, and maximize climate, air quality and health co-benefits."

"As many countries also need to expand transmission to support greater use of renewable energy, grid planners should consider the air quality implications of investment in transmission capacity in order to increase the co-benefits for health and carbon mitigation.

The researchers also noted that long-distance transmission could lead to other local environmental impacts from power plants in the electricity exporting regions.

Professor Mauzerall said: "For example, relocating coal power generation to arid western regions could exacerbate water scarcity. Alternatively, extensive development of hydropower may have major impacts on local ecosystems. It is extremely important, therefore, that grid planners consider the overall impact of long-distance electricity transmission on the environment at regional, national and global scales."
The BJP leaders who tried to break the barricades put up by the Punjab Police were dispersed by the cops using water canons.

By Manjeet Sehgal: After proposing a Dalit as its Presidential candidate, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday protested against the rising atrocities against Dalits in Punjab, which has highest number of Dalit voters in the country.

However, the BJP leaders, who had announced to gherao the Assembly on the issue. were not allowed to move beyond their party office in sector 37 by the Chandigarh Police. The police had barricaded all the roads leading to the Assembly.

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The BJP leaders who tried to break the barricades were dispersed by the police by using water canons.

"Assault by police with water canon will not deter the spirit of Dalits who gathered from all over Punjab under the banner of SC Morcha Bharatiya Janata Party Punjab and were protesting against the sudden rise in atrocities on Dalits in the state. Dalits were also protesting against the non-fulfillment of pre-poll promises by CM Captain Amarinder Singh. The pre-poll promises like one job per SC family, free house for homeless SCs, waiving off unpaid SC loans and others," Secretary BJP, Vineet Joshi said.

DALITS DISPOSSESSED OF THEIR LAND

BJP leaders said that Dalits are the most harassed community in the state and their daughters are molested and raped by the influential people. They said that the mighty people are dispossessing them from their lands, besides parading them naked, beating them mercilessly, killing them, trying to burn them alive and all this either by or at the behest of local Congress leaders," Manjit Bali, a Dalit leader said .

Citing the recent cases of torture in which several Dalits were subject to inhuman treatment, the BJP is in fact, trying to corner the government which has failed to keep its promises made during the Assembly elections.

"Police inaction in the murder of two young Dalits in Mukatsar, murder of 62-year-old Dalit in Moga and protest by Dalit widow in front of DC office, Sangrur speaks volumes about the role of police partisan," said ex MLA Mohan Lal Banga.

ATTACKS ON DALITS

The recent attacks on Dalits in Punjab include attempts to burn a Dalit mother and her daughter at Doudar Sharki near Moga, murder of a young boy in village Khyali Chehlanwala in Sardulgarh, parading naked Dalit in village Bagga near Amritsar, beating of a Dalit couple followed by abduction that too outside police station in village Chaksharif Gurdaspur.

"These are a few cases where police sided with accused. Police and civil administration is shielding those who dispossessed Dalits of their legally allotted five marla plots in village Nathuchak of Tarntaran, village Hari Ke Patan and village Mandor in Fatehgarhsahib. The local police openly shielded the rape and molestation case accused in Talwandi Mallan village of Moga, Abohar in Jandiala Guru," Vineet Joshi said.

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Also read: Rights watchdog CHRI condemns attacks on Dalits in Saharanpur, seeks independent inquiry

Also read: Did BS Yeddyurappa avoid food at Dalit's house? Youth lodges police complaint

--- ENDS ---
Research published in the British Journal of Psychology has found that parents who want their children to have prosocial values are the most successful in instilling all their values in their children compared to those who promote selfishness.

The collaborative study from Royal Holloway, University of London and the universities of Westminster, Vienna, and Bern assessed 418 German and Swiss families to see which parents most strongly transmitted their values to their children. They found that children whose parents wanted them to value helping, supporting and caring for others, were more similar to their parents in their overall value profile than those whose parents promoted striving for power and achievement.

Like father, like son?

Professor Anat Bardi from Royal Holloway's Department of Psychology and co-author of the study explained, "Ours is a test of how far the apple falls from the tree, or in other words, how similar are children to their parents in the values they hold?"

"We often take for granted 'like father, like son' and this is especially interesting when it comes to the inheritance of destructive values such as power-seeking and selfishness. We've now demonstrated that parents who foster more altruistic values, such as helping and caring more strongly pass on all their values down the family line," she added.

A first look at parent-child value similarity in middle childhood

"This is the first time a study that examined similarity between the values of children and their parents has actually assessed children's values when they are at the formative time of childhood, whereas previous research only asked teens and young adults to reflect back on their experiences. Therefore we are able to understand this key building block in the development of individual values, which are then taken forward through schooling and other important stages of value development," added author, Dr Anna Doering from the University of Westminster.

Kindness breeds kindness

In explaining the results, the researchers suggest that parents who focus on prosocial values may be more sensitive to their children's needs, thereby establishing a stronger bond with their children. The result of this stronger bond is that the children tend more to adopt the parents' values (including values that are not related to kindness, like values of curiosity or tradition).

By being more empathetic and supportive, these parents also demonstrate the importance of these values directly in their relationships with their children. As such, offspring are more likely to wish to replicate these positive experiences through their own values.

In conclusion, Professor Bardi commented, "This research really shows that where parents nurture positive, supportive and altruistic values their children will also take these characteristics to heart. Where being 'the best' is among the dominant interests of the parents, children tend not to express such connection to their parent's values. This research brings a positive message to the world: prosocial parents breed a prosocial next generation, but parents who endorse selfishness do not breed a selfish next generation."

"While there are always other influences on how we develop the values that make us who we are, there is no doubt that our parents have a huge role to play. How we then decide to take their values through our lives is, of course up to us as individuals."
Combustion is often a rapid process, like fire. How can our cells control the burning process so well? The question has long puzzled researchers. Using bacteria from hot springs, researchers from Stockholm University now have the answer.

Light a match and place it near a candle. You would see a fire and feel the heat when the stearin is burning, while consuming oxygen from air and converting the fuel to carbon dioxide and water. However, when our body burns fat, sugar or protein containing the same amount of energy, we do not vanish into fire and smoke, but use the energy for moving our muscles or for thinking. How does our body control the burning process so well? Researchers at Stockholm University have finally been able to monitor the process and to uncover the mechanism.

"We have shown how oxygen is combusted after it has been transported by blood to our cells. We have also shown how the combustion of oxygen provides energy, for example, for muscle contraction or to generate electricity in our nerve cells," says Peter Brzezinski, Professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University.

The combustion of oxygen in our cells takes place in the so-called respiratory chain that carefully controls the process. Electrons, which come from digestion, are transferred to the oxygen we breathe. The oxygen molecules bind to an enzyme in our mitochondria, the cellular power plant. However, the bound oxygen is not immediately combusted to form water, like in an uncontrolled fire, but it is converted to water gradually in a carefully controlled process. Up until now we only had a very basic knowledge about the mechanism of this process, since the reaction is too rapid too be studied using available techniques. One possibility would be to follow the reactions at low temperatures, at about -50 degrees Celsius, where they would be sufficiently slow. However, this is not practically possible.

In this project, researchers Federica Poiana and Christoph von Ballmoos studied oxygen combustion in a bacterium that lives in hot springs -- they thrive in almost boiling water. When the research group performed their studies at 10 degrees, the bacterium found it extremely cold -- as if our mitochondria were exposed to minus 40 degrees. The reactions then became sufficiently slow to allow studies using available instruments. By combining their experimental studies with theoretical calculations, the researchers could translate their observations to the equivalent processes in human cells.

"In addition to just being curious and wanting learn how the process works, our studies are also motivated by trying to understand the so-called Mitochondrial diseases, caused by malfunction in oxygen combustion," says Peter Brzezinski.

The research is published in the scientific journal Science Advances.
Since the mid-1990s, when the first planet around another sun-like star was discovered, astronomers have been amassing what is now a large collection of exoplanets -- nearly 3,500 have been confirmed so far. In a new Caltech-led study, researchers have classified these planets in much the same way that biologists identify new animal species and have learned that the majority of exoplanets found to date fall into two distinct size groups: rocky Earth-like planets and larger mini-Neptunes. The team used data from NASA's Kepler mission and the W. M. Keck Observatory.

"This is a major new division in the family tree of planets, analogous to discovering that mammals and lizards are distinct branches on the tree of life," says Andrew Howard, professor of astronomy at Caltech and a principal investigator of the new research. The lead author of the new study, to be published in The Astronomical Journal, is Benjamin J. (B. J.) Fulton, a graduate student in Howard's group who splits his time between Caltech and the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Hawaii.

In essence, their research shows that our galaxy has a strong preference for two types of planets: rocky planets up to 1.75 times the size of Earth, and gas-enshrouded mini-Neptune worlds, which are from 2 to 3.5 times the size of Earth (or somewhat smaller than Neptune). Our galaxy rarely makes planets with sizes in between these two groups.

"Astronomers like to put things in buckets," says Fulton. "In this case, we have found two very distinct buckets for the majority of the Kepler planets."

Since the Kepler mission launched in 2009, it has identified and confirmed more than 2,300 exoplanets. Kepler specializes in finding planets close to their stars, so the majority of these planets orbit more closely than Mercury, which circles the sun at roughly one-third of Earth-sun distance. Most of these close-in planets were found to be roughly between the size of Earth and Neptune, which is about 4 times the size of Earth. But, until now, the planets were found to have a variety of sizes spanning this range and were not known to fall into two size groups.

"In the solar system, there are no planets with sizes between Earth and Neptune," says Erik Petigura, co-author of the study and a Hubble Postdoctoral Fellow at Caltech. "One of the great surprises from Kepler is that nearly every star has at least one planet larger than Earth but smaller than Neptune. We'd really like to know what these mysterious planets are like and why we don't have them in our own solar system."

Kepler finds planets by looking for telltale dips in starlight as they pass in front of their stars. The size of the dip is correlated with the size of the planet. But in order to precisely know the planets' sizes, the sizes of the stars must be measured.

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The Caltech team -- together with colleagues from several institutions, including UC Berkeley, the University of Hawaii, Harvard University, Princeton University, and the University of Montreal -- took a closer look at the Kepler planets' sizes with the help of the Keck Observatory. They spent years obtaining spectral data on the stars hosting 2,000 Kepler planets. The spectral data allowed them to obtain precise measurements of the sizes of the Kepler stars; these measurements, in turn, allowed the researchers to determine more precise sizes for the planets orbiting those stars.

"Before, sorting the planets by size was like trying to sort grains of sand with your naked eye," says Fulton. "Getting the spectra from Keck is like going out and grabbing a magnifying glass. We could see details that we couldn't before."

With Keck's new data, the researchers were able to measure the sizes of the 2,000 planets with 4 times more precision than what had been achieved previously. When they examined the distribution of planet sizes, they found a surprise: a striking gap between the groups of rocky Earths and mini-Neptunes. Though a few planets fall into the gap, the majority do not.

The cause of the gap is not clear, but the scientists have come up with two possible explanations. The first is based on the idea that nature likes to make a lot of planets roughly the size of Earth. Some of those planets, for reasons that are not fully understood, end up acquiring enough gas to "jump the gap" and become gaseous mini-Neptunes.

"A little bit of hydrogen and helium gas goes a very long way. So, if a planet acquires only 1 percent of hydrogen and helium in mass, that's enough to jump the gap," says Howard. "These planets are like rocks with big balloons of gas around them. The hydrogen and helium that's in the balloon doesn't really contribute to the mass of the system as a whole, but it contributes to the volume in a tremendous way, making the planets a lot bigger in size."

The second possible reason that planets don't land in the gap has to do with planets losing gas. If a planet does happen to acquire just a little bit of gas -- the right amount to place it in the gap -- that gas can be burned off when exposed to radiation from the host star.

"A planet would have to get lucky to land in the gap, and then if it did, it probably wouldn't stay there," says Howard. "It's unlikely for a planet to have just the right amount of gas to land in the gap. And those planets that do have enough gas can have their thin atmospheres blown off. Both scenarios likely carve out the gap in planet sizes that we observe."

In the future, the researchers plan to study the heavy-element content of these planets to learn more about their composition. "We're living in a golden age of planetary astronomy because we are finding thousands of planets around other stars," says Petigura. "We are currently working to understand what these mini-Neptunes are made of, which should help explain why these planets form so easily around other stars and why they didn't form around the sun."
Army ants scare up a lot of food when they're on the move, which makes following them valuable for predator birds. But instead of competing and chasing each other off from the ant "raids," as scientists had thought, birds actually give each other a heads up when the ants are marching, according to a new Drexel University study.

For more than a decade -- from 2005 until 2016 -- Sean O'Donnell, PhD, a professor in Drexel's College of Arts and Sciences, observed army ant "raids" and the birds that follow them. He hoped to find out whether birds really were aggressive toward each other during the ant marches or whether they actually cooperated to access the food (other insects and bugs) that ants rustle out of hiding.

After observing 74 swarms in Costa Rica, it seems birds are much more likely to play nice with each other.

"Overall, the results strongly supported facilitation -- species help each other to exploit shared resources," O'Donnell said of his study that was recently published in Biotropica.

In watching for the raids and the flocks that "attend" them, a key to avian cooperation may be what are termed "bivouac-checking" birds. These are birds that perch near the sites where army ants make their nests (bivouacs) and watch to see where and when the ants move. Birds that fall into that category include the ocellated antbird and the blue-diademed motmot.

The prevailing thought has been that these specialized birds liked to keep the ant colonies they watched to themselves, not allowing other species to horn in on their finds.

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But a frequent high diversity of species in flocks following the ant columns showed O'Donnell that birds that didn't specialize in tracking army ants (like the migrant species Kentucky warbler) were allowed to join and hunt.

So when bivouac-checking birds see the movement of the columns and take off, other birds take the cue. They either know birds like the ocellated antbird follow ant columns or recognize vocalizations the specialized birds make when chasing the colonies.

"Birds may use each other as a way of finding army ant raids, which are very hard to locate in the forest because they are widely spaced and the ants are mobile," O'Donnell said. "Observations suggest some birds are attracted to other birds at raids, and birds may even follow each other when moving among raids of different ant colonies."

However, there did seem to be some bullies.

O'Donnell noticed some pairs of species were almost never found in flocks together despite, independently, being ant-chasers. That indicated that these bird species might chase each other off as competition, or just avoid each other entirely. Pairs that seemed to be unable to be around each other included the blue-throated toucanet and the brown jay, as well as the wood thrush and the white-eared ground sparrow.

"These antagonistic pairs were often species of very similar body size or feeding behavior," O'Donnell explained. "Perhaps these species do compete very strongly at army ant raids."

All in all, finding that birds largely work together to forage at army ant raids seems to demonstrate that cooperation is a better survival strategy than trying to keep food from the raids for their own species.

"Having other birds around may be an advantage because there are more eyes and ears to detect predators," O'Donnell said. "If the raid is hard to monopolize, and food is very abundant there, then the costs of allowing other birds to attend may be low, further favoring positive species interactions."
Researchers compared the caffeine and chlorogenic acid components of coffee beans at different roasting levels and tested the protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the different coffee extracts in human cell models. The results, linking increasing degree of roasting to reduced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, are published in Journal of Medicinal Food, a peer-reviewed journal from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available free on the Journal of Medicinal Food website until July 19, 2017.

The article entitled "Cellular Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Coffee Extracts with Different Roasting Levels," is coauthored by Soohan Jung, Korea University, Seoul, Min Hyung Kim, Jae Hee Park, and Kwang Suk Ko, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, and Yoonhwa Jeong, Dankook University, Cheonan, Korea. The researchers measured the levels of caffeine and chlorogenic acid and evaluated the effects of Coffea arabica green coffee extracts roasted at levels corresponding to Light, Medium, City, and French roast. Whereas the caffeine levels did not differ greatly between the various roasting levels, the levels of chlorogenic acid did vary and correlated with the differences shown in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

"When people think of coffee, they often associate the beverage with caffeine. However, coffee beans have many other chemicals that could help fight chronic inflammatory diseases," says Journal of Medicinal Food Editor-in-Chief Sampath Parthasarathy, MBA, PhD, Florida Hospital Chair in Cardiovascular Sciences and Interim Associate Dean, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida. "Coffee drinkers are passionate about different roasts -- light, medium and dark. This study suggests that some of the potentially beneficial compounds could be affected by the roasting process. This article would certainly change my coffee roast preference!"
This article was originally published at The Conversation. The publication contributed the article to Space.com's Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights.

Literature professor Simon John James and physicist Richard Bower were both involved in the curating the exhibition, Time Machines  the past, the future, and how stories take us there. Their conversations quickly revealed to them the many, wildly various, meanings of "time travel." Here, they discuss how time travelling in literary and scientific terms might, one day, coincide.

Simon John James: Richard, what does the term "time travel" mean for a physical scientist?

Richard Bower: Time travel is the basis of modern physics, and, for anyone that looks up at the night sky, an everyday experience. When we view the stars and planets, we see them, not as they are now, but as they were in the past. For the planets this time delay is only a few minutes, but for most of the stars in the night sky, thousands of years. For galaxies, faint smudges of light made up of very distant collections of stars, the delay can be millions or billions of years. By observing the faintest galaxies with the worlds latest telescopes, we can look back through time and watch the whole history of the universe unfold.

But this is not the most satisfying kind of time travel. It allows us only to gaze into the past as remote observers. One of the key challenges for modern physics is to determine whether it is possible to influence the past.

Looking back in time. (Image credit: Roxana Bashyrova/Shutterstock)

One of the key concepts of Einstein's Theory of Relativity is that objects exist in a long line in 4D spacetime, a unification of time and space. Although all observers agree on the length of the world line that connects two events, they may have different views about whether the events occur simultaneously, or at the same location but at different times, or a mixture of both. For example, while I sit at my desk to eat lunch, then work a little and get up to go home several hours later, a (very) fast-moving observer will see me whizz by eating lunch and immediately getting up to go home. In Einstein's theory, time and space are mixed together: we cannot think of them separately. It therefore makes best sense to think of myself as always moving along that 4D world-line, travelling into the future at the speed of light.

But is it possible to cheat the safeguards of Einstein's theory and to travel backwards through time? At face value the answer is no, but then again, the science of earlier generations would have said it was impossible for mankind to fly. Perhaps all scientists need is inspiration and a cunning idea.

SJJ: Well, you can find a lot of inspiration and cunning ideas in fantastic fiction, of course. Perhaps the most famous time travel text is The Time Machine (1895) by HG Wells, which was the first to imagine humans travelling in time through the use of technology. Other of his imaginations have been realised  he imagined and wrote about the technology of powered flight before science made it possible in real life, for example. Wells's innovative idea led to modern time travel stories such as Back to the Future or Doctor Who.

But many different kinds of stories travel in time: Aristotle observed that a good story has a beginning, a middle and an end  but they do not have to be in that order. Even a text as ancient as Homer's Iliad does not begin with the judgement of Paris, but with Achilles sulking in his tent in the ninth year of the Trojan War, and the story unfolds from there. Whodunnits usually don't tend to begin with the murder, but with the discovery of the body, and the plot is reconstructed by the detective as the story moves both forwards and backwards. This is the temporal freedom of narrative time.

RB: What's freeing in the literary device is for practical time travel the central obstacle. Although Einstein's theories allow us to stretch and shrink time, the causal ordering of events remains constant. While, in your example, the life of the murder victim might experience their life flashing before their eyes in their dying seconds, the experience of their life will always precede the moment of death.

But in The Terminator, to take one example, the future human civilisation finds a way to loop the protagonist's world line so that he travels back in time to intercept the cyborg and avert Sarah Connor's death. In the inner regions of a spinning black hole, space and time are mixed so that this is tantalisingly close to possible, but I've never knowingly met anyone that made their way back from the future this way. Perhaps the looped world line cuts off the old future and pops out a new future, creating parallel worlds that exist at the same time.

From the conventional point of view, there's rather a lot wrong with the idea of looping back in time. But modern interpretations of quantum mechanics suggest that the world may actually consist of many parallel futures, constantly splitting off from one another. All of these futures exist simultaneously, but we are only conscious of one of them. From this viewpoint, there isn't so much to fear from time travel. The looped world line simply creates another layer of possible futures.

SJJ: I'm fascinated by time travel's flexibility as metaphor for talking about many different kinds of academic research. History, archaeology would be obvious examples, but in a recent project I've been really inspired by work in the psychology of autobiographical memory. Narrative is not just a property of literary and other kinds of texts: it has been argued that the human sense of self is constructed from our narrativising of our own experiences within the passing of time: that memory and planning for the future are a kind of "mental time travel" which allows us to constitute identity.

Here my literary example is Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol. Scrooge travels back to memories of his past selves, and by so doing is encouraged to change his ways for the better in the future. We could think of the despised, neglected miser of the vision of Christmas Yet to Come, and the beloved happy Scrooge of the novel's ending as those inhabiting two different "parallel worlds," perhaps?

RB: It's certainly fascinating how literary ideas challenge scientific understanding  perhaps both of those parallel futures might be proved equally real yet.

Richard Bower, Professor in Physics, Durham University and Simon John James, Professor of Victorian Fiction, Durham University

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates  and become part of the discussion  on Facebook, Twitter and Google +. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on Space.com.
Companies all over the United States will be hunting for new rocketeers to hire during the inaugural Spaceport America Cup this week, where students will fire their rocket creations as high as 30,000 feet (9,150 meters).

The competition features 110 teams that will try to fire an 8.8-lb. (4 kilograms) payload to either 10,000 feet or 30,000 feet (3,050 or 9,150 m), depending on the system they chose. The flight operations cap several days of activities that include ample opportunity to network with future employers.

Past participants in a predecessor program run by the Experimental Sounding Rocket Association (ESRA) ended up with jobs at many major U.S. companies, ranging from commercial spaceflight firms such as SpaceX and Blue Origin, to established NASA spaceflight vendors such as United Launch Alliance and Scaled Composites, to big aerospace companies such as Boeing. [Now Boarding: The Top 10 Private Spaceships]

"Employers get to look at a resume, but also get to look at a rocket," said ESRA President Matthew Ellengold. After years of running its own competition, ESRA co-founded the cup with Spaceport America (opens in new tab), a facility in New Mexico whose anchor tenant is Virgin Galactic.

"These are the employees you want," Ellengold told Space.com. "They are demonstrating right in front of you they are highly competent, and they live and breathe aerospace."

More than 100 student rocketry teams are signed up to compete in the first Spaceport America Cup, which will be held June 20 through June 24 in New Mexico. (Image credit: Spaceport America/ESRA)

The competition is also an opportunity for lesser-known aerospace programs to give graduates flight opportunities in front of name-brand companies, said Nancy Squires, an adviser to the Oregon State University rocket team and an ESRA board member.

While her university does not have as large a budget as similar institutions in adjacent California (an aerospace powerhouse), she said that participating in key events such as this one allows the students to show their stuff.

"The hands-on experience, the collaborative team experience and the professionalism" are all valuable, she told Space.com.

Full roster of events

In addition to the competition, the cup will feature several opportunities for students to demonstrate the technical knowledge they acquired while building the rockets.

The events kick off Tuesday (June 20) with teams participating in a poster session, using display boards and hardware samples to show their rocket development. A subset of those teams  those eligible for technical excellence awards  will also do podium sessions to talk about their rocket designs.

Wednesday (June 21) will feature presentations by Spaceport America on its suborbital opportunities in the near future. Anchor tenant Virgin Galactic periodically runs test flights there for its SpaceShipTwo spacecraft, but the port's customers and tenants also include Lockheed Martin, Armadillo Aerospace and UP Aerospace.

Launch operations will take place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (June 22 to June 24). Teams are eligible for six awards in flight performance and four in rocketry skills (technical excellence, innovation, modeling and flight dynamics).

The new competition came about after Spaceport America attended ESRA's 2016 International Rocket Engineering Competition in Green River, Utah. The competition had then been running annually for 11 years, growing from a handful of teams when the program started to 40 teams on last year's roster.

"We could see that ESRA was outgrowing the current location and invited the ESRA board out to Spaceport America in August of 2016," Tammara Anderton, Spaceport America's vice president of business development, told Space.com via email.

"We became partners to form the Spaceport America Cup," Anderton added. "Once we made the announcement, we were so surprised when over 110 teams from 12 countries signed up and paid to participate. We are obviously very pleased to have been able to bring the world's largest rocket engineering competition to Spaceport America."

More information about the cup is available at http://spaceportamericacup.com.

Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com.
WASHINGTON  A pair of French entrepreneurs have raised 1.7 million euros ($1.9 million) for a new electric propulsion system to address the small satellite market.

ThrustMe, a startup formed in February by Ane Aanesland and Dmytro Rafalskyi, two researchers from France's Ecole Polytechnique plasma physics laboratory and CNRS, the French National Center for Scientific Research, raised the money from Kima Ventures and a collection of U.S. and European angel investors in order to fund a technology demonstration in the next 18 months. The startup also plans to use the funding to double its headcount to 14 and to secure customers.

ThrustMe is one of a growing number of startups creating products for the fast-growing small satellite market  one that is now creating its own network of suppliers similar to that of the traditional satellite manufacturing market. Like the burst in new launcher companies targeting small satellites, other parts of the small satellite ecosystem, such as satellite and component manufacturing as well as satellite control and data downlinking, are gaining entrants.

In a June 16 statement, ThrustMe said the new capital builds on 2 million euros ($2.2 million) in previously awarded government research and development grants. ThrustMe claims that its electric thruster has double the thrust of a regular miniaturized electric propulsion system at only 40 percent the size. The company says its thrusters are also simpler to integrate into a satellite.

"By going back to the basics of electric space propulsion, we solved the hurdles in miniaturization, with a technology which holds the tremendous potential to improve electric propulsion system for satellites, including the larger ones," said Dmytro Rafalskyi, ThrustMe co-founder and chief technology officer.

Xavier Apolinarki, president of Societe d'Acceleration du Transfert de Technologies Paris-Saclay, a French company that helps to spin off public academic research projects into companies, said ThrustMe has "worldwide exclusive rights" from Ecole Polytechnique and CNRS to the patents for the propulsion technology formed from research there. Aanesland and Rafalskyi invented the patented technology.

"After 18 months funding the transformation of this scientific research project at Ecole Polytechnique into a commercial venture, SATT Paris-Saclay is proud and excited to continue the adventure with ThrustMe by becoming a shareholder, a very first time for SATT Paris-Saclay," Apolinarki said in a prepared statement.

ThrustMe said its propulsion system is "fully validated" from thrust measurements performed with ONERA, the French Aerospace Lab.

The company counts Jean-Jacques Dordain, the former president of the European Space Agency, and Robert Laine, the former chief technology officer of EADS Astrium (now Airbus Defence and Space) as members of its advisory board. Dordain, who led ESA from 2003 to 2015, described ThrustMe as "one of the most innovative and promising startups in Europe."

Another former Airbus Defence and Space employee, Helene Huby, who was head of innovation, is one of ThrustMe's angel investors.

"I also believe that we must all help the economy of the European new space ecosystem to grow alongside the American one," she said, echoing comments made by other European space leaders on the gap between U.S. and European entrepreneurship in space. European policy makers have taken additional steps to encourage NewSpace entrepreneurism in Europe, such as providing funding through the Horizons 2020 program, in an effort to close that gap.

This story was provided by SpaceNews, dedicated to covering all aspects of the space industry.
Astronaut Chris Hadfield was onboard the International Space Station in 2012 and 2013 as part of Expedition 34 and Expedition 35, and served as ISS commander during Expedition 35.

WASHINGTON, D.C.  Of the 7.3 billion people on this planet, only a few ever get to travel beyond Earth's atmosphere. But thanks to Canadian astronaut Col. Chris Hadfield, anyone can get a sense of what it's like to go to space.

Hadfield, who flew on two space shuttle missions and is a former commander of the International Space Station (ISS), made dozens of videos while on board the ISS in 2013. They offer a fascinating glimpse of the daily routines that astronauts perform while living in microgravity, from how they clean up spills to how they brush their teeth.

Hadfield also famously strummed and sang "Space Oddity"  the David Bowie song about an astronaut  while on the ISS. After Hadfield recorded the song in space, his son Evan Hadfield edited a video of the performance that has gathered more than 36 million views on YouTube. The Bowie tune is one of 12 tracks on an album of songs that Chris Hadfield recorded on the ISS, titled "Space Sessions: Songs from a Tin Can."

Now retired as an astronaut, Hadfield has written several books about his experiences as a military pilot and a spaceflyer, and he continues to make music and perform science outreach and education. [Fun Times in Space: Astronaut Chris Hadfield's Wacky Photos]

On June 16, Hadfield appeared here at Future Con as co-host for a taping of an episode of the talk show "StarTalk Live!" alongside actor and writer Scott Adsit ("Big Hero 6," "Veep" and "30 Rock"). Before he hit the stage, Hadfield spoke with Space.com about the many ways he continues to share his spacefaring adventures with eager audiences on Earth.

(This Q&A has been lightly edited for clarity and content.)

Space.com: What brings you to Future Con?

Col. Chris Hadfield: I was invited to come to Future Con by the folks who put on "StarTalk" and "StarTalk Radio." I've been on that with [science communicator and astrophysicist] Neil [deGrasse] Tyson. And the whole idea of how you communicate  not just science and technology, but a lifetime of experience in those two things  is a big part of what I do right now. I speak all around the world. I teach at university. I write books about it. I have a YouTube series called "Rare Earth." I led an expedition to the Arctic about it, and I sing music about it. And to me, it's all part of the same theme. So, to be invited to come here and to talk about exploration and how we got to where we are and where we're going next  and to be on stage with other experts  to me it's just a treat.

Space.com: What role do events like Future Con play in connecting people with science?

Hadfield: The simple answer is it brings a lot of people to one place. If you're talking to one person, that's good, and the information that you pass on may be worthwhile, but it's just inefficient. To come to a place where there are thousands of people who are there because they have an interest in the ideas of science and exploration, and the fanciful as well as the practical  it's a good audience to speak with. And when you speak on something like "StarTalk," of course, it has life beyond the people in the room. It ends up being a podcast on its own, so other people can have access to the ideas.

I've had a bizarre life! I've gotten to do things that are extremely rare in the human experience and are sort of portal-opening activities, more so than most. And so, part of the question I ask myself is, 'What do you do with that experience?' Do you just become a hermit? Or do you try and share with other people what might be useful out of the experience? It helps guide all the choices that I make. So, the chance to come and be part of this is sort of a natural piece of all the other things that I do.

Space.com: You've had plenty of success using social media for science  it's great for quickly connecting to large numbers of people! But is it effective for stimulating long-term interest in science?

Hadfield: Improved communication is always used imperfectly when it first comes out. But in the long term, it contributes to the sharing of individual thought, and that's really important.

In 1435, if you had a new idea, it was really difficult to let anybody else know about it, especially if you weren't a person who was "supposed" to have a good idea  if you weren't part of the intelligentsia. But when Gutenberg made the printing press in 1440, by 1500 they had printed 2 million volumes. A lot of them were crap, of course, but a lot of them were brilliant, and that explosion of access to information was revolutionary, and that pace of communication has only accelerated.

And when the telephone was first invented, people didn't think they'd need it, and it wasn't used right  but now you don't even think about it, the telephone is just another way of talking to somebody. It's just ubiquitous and completely accepted.

Social media is just another form of communication. And the social side, I think, is the most important part. That any human being on Earth with an original idea now has a way to share it with any other human being on Earth, with no impediment. You don't have to be in the king's court for someone to hear what you have to say. You don't have to be a professor at Harvard. You can just be a person with an idea.

But our ability to procreate and to create problems isn't slowing down. We have a lot of problems to solve, and that takes technology. It takes invention. It takes people willing to address the issues. You have to understand the issues, share the problems, look at all the different solutions and then work on them together. And that takes communication in an unprecedented way.

Because the real measure of communication is changing behavior. If you haven't changed someone's behavior, you haven't really communicated with them. You were just talking to yourself.

Space.com: Let's talk about your "Space Oddity" video. You're a musician as well as an astronaut, so did you plan on performing this song in space as soon as you knew you'd be heading to the ISS?

Hadfield: Not at all  the exact opposite. I've been a musician since I was a kid, [but] I've only ever played one Bowie tune in my entire life, and I never played it before I was in orbit. I had no preconceived plan at all.

I've written lots of music and performed music my whole life. I fronted bands in Houston for 20 years. I flew in space three times. On my third flight, I knew there was a guitar up on the space station, so I just made sure I had enough strings and capos and picks up there, and I just played it every day.

My brother and I wrote a Christmas carol called "Jewel in the Night," and I got there [to the ISS] three days before Christmas, so I slapped the iPad up on the wall and did a one-take record with just an ambient mic of "Jewel in the Night." My son Evan released it through SoundCloud [an audio distribution platform], and the reaction sort of built from that, with people saying, "Hey, if you're gonna do that, you should do 'Oddity.'"

It just grew from that original idea. Emm Gryner and Joe Corcoran put all those instrumentals underneath my voice and guitar, and Bowie loved it  I've had a chance to play in New York with Bowie's band, and it just worked out really great. It was just a little tiny bit of what I did up there, but it had a big impact.

That crossover of fantasy and imagination and fiction is where you can allow yourself to imagine something that doesn't exist yet. That's where invention happens, and that's where the science moves in to make it happen. People who didn't even know there was a space station understand life on a spaceship better as a result of that song. And there was no big plan. I just shot that in a couple of hours one Saturday afternoon, just flipping around singing to myself.

My son's the one doing the "Rare Earth" YouTube series  it was his impetus. I never would have made the whole thing without him, so he's the one to thank.

Space.com: You're hosting "StarTalk Live!" here at Future Con. You've written books, given a TED talk, recorded a Bowie song in space  you've explored a variety of avenues for science communication and outreach. Is there one that you haven't tried yet but would like to?

Hadfield: I've just recently finished hosting a six-part series on BBC, and I'm in the process of hosting a 10-part series on National Geographic called "One Strange Rock," with Darren Aronofsky as the overall producer. But I'm always looking for different ways to communicate.

My first spaceflight, I had a ham radio and a film camera  it's really hard to share an experience on a ham radio and film camera. And social media allows an instantaneous sharing of a rare human experience, so I'm always on the lookout for better ways. I speak. I work with schools, and I teach at university  I'll probably teach more, and I'll see what comes along. I'm making it up as I go, just like everybody.

Original article on Space.com.
On Wednesday (June 21), exactly two months before the total solar eclipse that will cross the continental U.S. on Aug. 21, NASA will webcast two news briefings to discuss eclipse science, safety, and travel information.

"Representatives from NASA, other federal agencies and science organizations, will provide important viewing safety, travel and science information during two briefings," the agency said in a statement.

The first briefing will run from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. EDT (1700 to 1800 GMT), and the second briefing will go from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDT (1830 to 1930 GMT). You can watch the webcasts on NASA TV or here on Space.com.

The first webcast will focus on eclipse safety and logistics, including the anticipated crowd sizes and traffic levels. Speakers will include Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate; Vanessa Griffin, director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of Satellite and Product Operations; Brian Carlstrom, deputy associate director of natural resource stewardship and science at the National Park Service; and Martin Knopp, associate administrator of the Office of Operations in the Federal Highway Administration at the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The second briefing will focus on the science of the eclipse. Speakers will include Zurbuchen; Angela Des Jardins, principal investigator of the Eclipse Ballooning Project at Montana State University; Angela Speck, professor of astrophysics and director of astronomy at the University of Missouri; David Boboltz, program director of solar physics in the division of astronomical sciences at the National Science Foundation in Arlington, Virginia; Linda Shore, executive director of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, in San Francisco; and Matt Penn, an astronomer at the National Solar Observatory in Tucson, Arizona.

The total solar eclipse will cross the U.S. along a path that averages about 70 miles (113 kilometers) wide. Under the moon's shadow, daylight will turn into twilight, and the twisted atmosphere of the sun will become visible. The shadow will move across the country at 2,288 mph (3,682 km/h), and totality will last for less than 3 minutes in any single location. The exact duration and time when totality will occur depends on where an observer is in the path. Outside the path of totality and all across North America, a partial solar eclipse will be visible.

"The eclipse will provide a unique opportunity to study the sun, Earth, moon and their interaction because of the eclipse's long path over land coast to coast," NASA officials said in the statement. "Scientists will be able to take ground-based and airborne observations over a period of an hour and a half to complement the wealth of data and images provided by space assets."

The day of the eclipse is expected to be one of the worst traffic days in American history, and observers who plan to commute into the eclipse path should plan accordingly.

Follow Calla Cofield @callacofield. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.
The amendment will bypass the Supreme Court orders that banned operation of liquor vends on highway.

By Seema Gupta: Punjab Cabinet today gave its nod to a proposal to amend the Section 26-A of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914, for fixing the location of liquor vends on national and state highways.

The proposal will thus exclude hotels, restaurants and clubs from the Supreme Court's restriction on serving liquor within 500 m of highways.

The amendment will bypass the Supreme Court orders that banned operation of liquor vends on highway.

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By amending Section 26-A of Punjab Excise Act, 1914, all ambiguities for serving of liquor at hotels, restaurants and clubs.

However, these restrictions shall not apply to the hotels, restaurants and clubs situated on the national and state highways.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh chaired a cabinet meeting which gave a go-ahead to the draft amendment Bill, 2017. The bill will be tabled during the current budget session for enactment.

The Council of Ministers also gave its formal approval to the budgetary proposals to be presented by state Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal in the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday.

The Council also approved the setting up of a dedicated horticulture university to promote crop diversification in the state, to help in bringing changes in cropping patterns to include the planting of vegetables, fruits, herbs, aromatic and medicinal herbs, fibre and tuber crops, sericulture, fodder crops and floriculture, the spokesman said.

At present, the total area under fruit plants and vegetables is approximately three lakh hectares in Punjab, constituting only approximately four per cent of the total land in agrarian Punjab and a fraction of the country's total area.

"Green Revolution" state Punjab contributes nearly 50 per cent of food grains (wheat and paddy) to the national kitty.

With inputs from IANS

Also read:

SC not to extend licenses of liquor shops on state, national highways for a year

For temperance, not prohibition: Kerala Minister to review UDF's liquor policy to revive tourism

WATCH | Protests against liquor shops after Supreme Court's ban on sale of alcohol along highways

--- ENDS ---
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In May 2017 the United States transferred a recently (a month earlier) decommissioned Hamilton class Coast Guard cutter to the Vietnam Coast Guard. Vietnam, and several other nations, considered this a good deal.

The first of these 3,200 ton, ocean going American patrol ships entered service in 1965 and another eleven entered service by 1972. In the 1980s all of them underwent a refurbishment that upgraded the 76mm gun with a more powerful model and added a 20mm Phalanx anti-missile autocannon system that could also be used at naval targets. Also added was a retractable hanger bay so a helicopter could be carried for extended periods. Electronic and mechanical systems were also upgraded.

The Hamiltons began to retire in 2011 and given that they were good shape they were transferred to allied nations. While four are still in U.S. service, two have gone to Bangladesh, two to Nigeria, three to the Philippines and one to Vietnam. Not all recipients used the Hamiltons are coast guard vessels. The three sent to the Philippines were upgraded and became frigates for the navy. The first one of these became the flagship for the Filipino navy.

In coast guard service the Hamiltons are armed with a 76mm gun, six 12.7mm machine-guns and two Mk30 chaff/decoy systems and the Phalanx for protection against anti-ship missiles. There is also a hanger and flight deck for an UH-60 class helicopter. There are also two high-speed RHIB (rigid hull inflatable boats) for boarding parties. The ship has a top speed of 54 kilometers an hour, endurance of 45 days, and a crew of 167. The Philippines paid $15 million for each cutter to cover the cost of some refurbishment and upgrades performed in the United States before the ship was delivered. Recipients of the Hamiltons are usually nations with very small navies but can still use a ship that can safely patrol far off shore for long periods. This is something the Hamiltons excel at.

Vietnam also recently received six 14 meter (45 foot) Metal Shark coastal patrol boats. These are popular with police and coast guard worldwide and are also used for firefighting or pilot boats. These can be armed with machine-gun but come with surface search radar, searchlights and other optional accessories. The boats have a galley, toilet and shower and can be equipped with four bunks. In addition to a long coastline Vietnam also has lots of internal waterways (major rovers like the Mekong and its delta).
In the north government forces have reduced ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) controlled territory to one crowded neighborhood in the old city district. This area contains the Grand Mosque where ISIL announced the formation of their Islamic State after taking Mosul in mid-2014. In February the Iraqi forces began their offensive to take western Mosul and since then they have driven ISIL out of over 300 square kilometers of the city. Along the way they have verified (to varying degrees of accuracy) the death of nearly 1,400 ISIL fighters. Along the way Iraqi forces disabled or destroyed over 900 vehicles that had been rigged with explosives and cleared over 800 landmines. Now there is only two square kilometers of the city held by ISIL.

The battle west of Mosul for Tal Afar was fought largely by the Iran-backed Shia militia and those militias are now on the Syrian border. With the main road from Mosul to Raqqa now blocked it is more difficult but not impossible to travel between Syria and Mosul. While the militias have established heavily armed checkpoint on the main roads, vehicles can still travel on dirt roads or cross country. Until recently the militias did not have the manpower to provide garrisons for all the towns in the area between Mosul and Syria so the fighting consisted of lots of heavily armed patrols looking for the many small groups of ISIL men still around. The militias are largely pro-Iran and thus refuse to work with American advisors or air support. But with about a few hundred ISIL fighters left in Mosul and about as many still lose in the surrounding Nineveh province and nearby provinces those ISIL men outside the city have to be chased down. After the Old City area of Mosul is taken in the next few weeks the army, and particularly the Iraqi special operations troops can be sent west of Mosul to deal with the remaining ISIL forces in Tal Afar and surrounding areas. The Iraqi army has air support and more specialists than the militias and are not likely to disobey orders, like the Iran backed Iraqi Shia militias often do.

The government is facing more aggressive pressure (from the Americans and Sunnis throughout the region) to reduce the Iranian presence in Iraq. A growing number of senior Shia Iraqi officials are openly and loudly backing this. While the Iraqi Shia Arabs are in favor of the Shia majority continuing to control the government they are resisting Iranian pressure (and occasional threats) to back Iran in its struggle to replace the Sunni Saudis as the guardians of key Moslem shrines and holy places in Saudi Arabia. Turkey recently came out openly demanding that Iran back off in Iraq and in general. While Russia and Turkey back Iranian efforts to keep the Shia minority (led by the Assads) in control of Syria, both oppose Iran expanding their influence in Iraq and Syria. The Americans and Israel are with Turkey and Russia on that point but the Americans want the Assads gone and the Israelis dont much care who runs Syria as long isnt another Iranian backed Islamic terror group like Hezbollah in Syria.

The Iraqi government is also struggling to stay out of the recent Saudi led effort to force Qatar to halt its support for Iran. Qatar denies the charge and at the center of the dispute is the accusation that Qatar is quietly backing Iran and Islamic terrorists. This is nothing new for Qatar. Back in late 2014 Qatar was criticized for its energetic efforts to supply Islamic terrorist rebels in Syria with weapons and ammunition. This criticism was based on video and items captured from ISIL. One video showed an ISIL man using a Chinese FN-6 shoulder fired surface to air missile to shoot down an Iraqi helicopter. The FN-6 was known to have been provided by Qatar to rebels in Syria. Other Chinese weapons and ammunition from Qatar have also been captured from ISIL. The Qatari stuff comes from items either captured by ISIL (which has been fighting other rebel groups all through 2014) or because many Syrian rebel groups had joined ISIL after ISIL took control of Mosul in mid-2014.

The latest accusation is all about a billion dollar ransom Qatar is accused of paying in April to al Qaeda and Iraqi Shia militias to obtain the release of 26 prominent Qataris kidnapped (by an Iran backed Shia militia) in southern Iraq at the end of 2015. The Qataris were there legally on a falcon hunt and appeals to Iran and Iraq to help resolve the issue failed. So the Qataris made a deal, mainly because eleven of the captives were members of the Qatari royal family. As part of the deal Iran did persuade their forces in Syria to release a number of al Qaeda captives. Most of the ransom money went to Iran or pro-Iranian Shia groups. Iraq now insists that the half billion dollar portion of the ransom meant for Iran and pro-Iran Shia militias did arrive in Iraq but remains in an Iraqi bank. The rest of the billion was apparently already delivered to various Sunni Islamic terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq.

The current chapter of the Qatar crises began on June 5th when Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Bahrain cut diplomatic, economic and military relations with tiny Saudi neighbor Qatar. Ambassadors were expelled, borders were closed and Qatar was made to feel very unwelcome. Yemen and several other Moslem nations followed suit. The expulsion comes after years of criticisms regarding Qatari support for Islamic terrorism and the perception among Arab states that Qatar could not be trusted. Cutting ties with Qatar is partly retaliation against the Qatar based and subsidized al Jazeera satellite news network which often reports on real or imagined (depending on who you ask) bad behavior by Sunni Arab governments and their security forces. Al Jazeera does not criticize the Qatar government.

Qatar also openly supports Palestinian terror group Hamas, although Qatar recently ordered some senior Hamas leaders to leave Qatar for another sanctuary. Al Jazeera reporters have a hard time avoiding arrest (or worse) in Egypt and other Moslem states but they are often abused by Islamic terror groups as well. Qatar is also seen as siding with Iran in the current struggle between Shia Iran and the Sunni Arab nations led by Saudi Arabia. This sort of behavior is not uncommon in the region and the small Arab Gulf states like Qatar, Kuwait and the member states of the UAE have survived for centuries using these methods. One could say Qatar has been too successful and the current unpleasantness is the price of that success. As is the local custom secret meetings will be held, demands discussed and agreements made. How long this takes will depend on how long Qatar can last without its usual providers of all the food and just about everything else. The expulsion cut off half of that immediately and a naval blockade would be disastrous. About 40 percent of imports came via Saudi Arabia.

Qatar does have local allies. Iran offered to ship food and other emergency supplies to Qatar and Turkey has offered to send 3,000 more troops to the small base Turkey already has in Qatar, along with a few hundred troops. Turkey is a major customer (over $700 million a year) of Qatari natural gas and Qatar has invested some $20 billion in Turkey. Qatar has assured the United States that the American bases and about 10,000 military personnel in Qatar were safe. Turning to Iran was obvious but Turkey is a more interesting case. Turkey is establishing a military base in Qatar to support Turkish peacekeeping and efforts in Africa (especially Somalia) and relations with the Arabian states. Turkey is less eager to get too close to Iran.

The Qatar dispute is bringing unwelcome publicity to a lot of Arabian customs and unsavory aspects of Persian Gulf politics. For Iraqis it is a reminder that while Iran may be the major defender of Shia Islam (most Iraqis are Shia) it is also an ancient threat to Arabs in general (Shia, Sunni or whatever). Iran is seen as being the big loser here but the entire incident does not reflect well on anyone.

June 18, 2017: Troops in Mosul began what is being called the final assault on the last ISIL held neighborhood; two square kilometers (200 hectares/500 acres) of the Old City. There are about 300 ISIL fighters left in this area and lots of landmines and hidden bombs. There are also as many as 100,000 civilians and ISIL forces are holding the civilians there by force, shooting any they catch trying to sneak out. In the last month nearly 100,000 have. Intel analysts questioned many of them and got a good idea of where the few ISIL fighters were based inside the Old City, how many there were and what they intend to do. One thing ISIL did was build a lot of hidden passageways, often by knocking holes in walls adjacent buildings. Since many of these buildings are ancient and fragile to begin with, these ISIL alterations make them more so. Thus the attack force cannot use a lot of firepower (like 155mm artillery and larger rockets or smart bombs). Hellfire missiles are the most often used airstrike weapon. ISIL knows they are going to lose Mosul and prefer to do it with as much death and destruction as possible.

June 17, 2017: In the Kurdish north some Turkish troops crossed the border overnight apparently to deal with a group of PKK (Turkish Kurdish separatist rebels) gunmen Turkish UAVs had spotted near the border. One of the UAVs attacked the PKK men with missiles, killing two of them. The surviving PKK men fled deeper into Iraq while the Turkish troops (probably commandos) apparently collected evidence and returned to Turkey before dawn. Such incursions are common, but rarely large scale and that is one reason why there are often not reported. The Iraqi government ignores it while the Iraqi Kurds stay out of the way.

In the southwest (Anbar province) Sunni tribal militiamen continued clearing ISIL fighters away from the Syrian border, particularly the main Baghdad-Damascus highway that crosses the border at the Tanf (on the Syrian side) Walweed (on the Iraqi side) checkpoint. The Iraqi army is in the process of clearing ISIL out of Anbar completely and sealing the border is part of that.

June 16, 2017: Russia revealed that it is in the process of verifying that one of their airstrikes in late May killed ISIL founder Abu Bakr al Baghdadi in Syria, along with several other ISIL leaders. Back in April Iraqi intel revealed that it had evidence Baghdadi had left Mosul for Syria in January or February and had not returned to Iraq since.

June 15, 2017: In the northwest (west of Mosul) several hundred members of an Iran-backed Shia militia crossed into Syria for a second time despite assurances by the Iraqi government that these pro-Iran militias would not enter Syria. As happened on June 2nd the Iraqi militiamen went back to Iraq after a few hours. In both instances the action was justified to deal with ISIL forces on the Syrian side that were firing rockets and shells into Iraq.

Another problem was that the Iraqi militiamen entered an area (Hasakah province) that has largely been under Kurdish control since 2012 and the Syrian Kurds warned Iraqis to stay out. This incursion apparently has more to do with the Iranian goal of establishing a safe (for Iranian arms shipments) land route from Iran to Lebanon. A major highway crosses the border in the area where the Iraqi Shia militia are operating, now on both sides of the border. The Iraqis did not advance far and most returned to Iraq.

In the west (Anbar) ISIL used explosives to bring down three electrical towers near Hit (or Heet) causing a blackout in large areas between the provincial capital (Ramadi) and the Syrian border.

June 14, 2017: In the northwest (Mosul) about a hundred ISIL gunmen made a surprise attack and after killing 11 policemen and five civilians occupied a mosque. An airstrike demolished the mosque and Iraqi troops moved in to confirm that the ISIL gunmen were there, and all dead.

In the west (Anbar) the U.S. moved two MLRS (228mm GPS guided rocket launchers) vehicles into Syria (a base near the Tanf border crossing). The Iraqi government has agreed to order Iran sponsored Shia militia away from the Syrian border and especially the main border crossings. On the Syrian side of the border American warplanes have attacked Iran backed Shia mercenaries who are there to keep the Assads in power and in this case to open a road from Damascus to Baghdad and the Iranian border.

June 13, 2017: In the north Turkish F-16s bombed several PKK camps in northern (Kurdish) Iraq over the last two days, leaving at least 15 PKK members dead. Most of these airstrikes take place in remote areas near the Turkish border.

June 10, 2017: In the northwest (Nineveh province) Iraqi Shia militias declared the western portion of the province free of ISIL forces, at least in occupied localities. The militias have not got the manpower to provide garrisons for all the towns in the area between Mosul and Syria so the fighting has consisted of lots of heavily armed patrols looking for the many small groups of ISIL men still around. The militias are largely pro-Iran and thus refuse to work with American advisors or air support. But with about half the 1,500 ISIL fighters left in Mosul and surrounding Nineveh province cornered in about three percent of west Mosul, the rest of those ISIL men have to be chased down. The army, and particularly the Iraqi special operations troops can now be sent west of Mosul to deal with the remaining ISIL forces in Tal Afar and surrounding areas. The Iraqi army has air support and more specialists.

June 9, 2017: Turkey openly criticized the Kurdish government of northern Iraq for their recently announced plan to hold a referendum in September to see if a majority of Iraqi Kurds wanted to set up a separate Kurdish state. Turkey plays an important part in this because the Kurds continue to pump and ship (via a Turkish pipeline) up to half a million barrels of oil a day. The Shia Arab dominated national government wants that to stop but has not got the military superiority make the Kurds back off. The main obstacle to the Kurds moving forward with the independence effort is internal divisions. Despite the apparent unity the Iraqi Kurds have long been divided by clan loyalty. The Kurdish north is currently dominated by the Barzani family. The Iraqi Kurds had long been divided into warring clans with the two largest of them led by the Barzani and Talibani families. Since the 1990s, the Barzanis have emerged as the most powerful clan and they are behaving more like a dictatorship (corruption, suppression of dissent, and rigged elections). Popular anger against this among Kurds is increasing. Despite that, Kurds living outside the autonomous area continue to move back to the Kurdish region. Even the Iraqi Army, which was rebuilt after 2003, with a core of experienced, loyal, and reliable Kurdish troops lost many of its Kurds. For the Kurdish soldiers leaving was mainly a matter of not wanting to get caught up in the war between Shia and Sunni Arabs.

The autonomous Kurdish government revealed that their armed forces (the Peshmerga) had suffered 11,000 casualties fighting ISIL (since 2014). Most (82 percent) of these casualties were wounds, although nearly 20 percent of those wounded were permanently disabled and 18 percent of all casualties were dead or missing. The fact that these Kurds were the most effective Iraqi troops in Iraq is not lost on anyone.

June 7, 2017: In Iran there was a rare ISIL attack in the capital as six ISIL men armed with firearms and explosive vests attacked the parliament (in central Tehran) and a shrine to religious leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini (who established the current religious dictatorship) south of Tehran. All six attackers were killed but not before seven other people died and 43 wounded. It was soon discovered five of the dead ISIL men were Iranians who police knew or suspected had left the country to join ISIL. The five apparently returned to set up an ISIL branch in Iran and ISIL boasts that this is the first attack of many in Iran. The violence today did some damage to the Parliament building and the Khomeini Shrine but the Iranian government suffered a major loss of popularity with the public. The government had justified all the money and resources spent in Iraq, Syria, Yemen and elsewhere as necessary to keep ISIL out. Until now they could say that effort had worked..

June 6, 2017: For the last week the remaining ISIL forces in Mosul have apparently been carrying out a shoot to kill order for any civilians caught trying to escape the remaining neighborhood ISIL controls. Over 200 of these killings were witnessed by ground forces or surveillance aircraft. It is estimated that there are only a few hundred ISIL fighters left in Mosul.

June 5, 2017: In Anbar Iraqi forces on the Syrian border could hear and sometimes see American airstrikes across the border in Deir Ezzor province. This is of interest to Iraqis because the Americans use an old Syrian military base near Tanf. Today some of those American airstrikes hit Syrian government forces (Iran backed Shia mercenaries) who had moved too close to the Tanf border crossing. This was the second such attack since late May and carried out after repeated warning (to the Russians, mainly) to remove those forces from the area. The first airstrike (May 20) was carried out because a convoy had entered a de-confliction zone the U.S. and Russia had agreed would be controlled by U.S. backed rebels who operate out of training bases in Jordan and near the Iraq border. The Iranian militia did not try to advance again for a while. But recently some did move forward and establish a camp within the zone. Iran backed Syrian Army forces have advanced to within 20 kilometers of Tanf and the U.S. wants to keep Iran backed forces away from the Iraq border to prevent Iran from established a road link from Iran through Syria and into Lebanon. An American backed Sunni tribal militia (Maghawir a Thawra or MAT) controls the Tanf crossing and an Iraqi tribal militia controls the Iraqi side. By March these two tribal militias have opened and maintained the border crossing for all non-military traffic. Vehicles are searched for explosives and the MAT militia admit they have American air power on call if they encounter any problems. MAT charges a fee for most cargo passing through and does not care where the cargo is going (to Assad or ISIL controlled territory). Apparently MAT will contact the Americans if they encounter vehicles that are clean but may be Iranians. Naturally vehicles carrying cargoes of weapons are not allowed.

June 4, 2017: In the northwest (Nineveh province) Iraqi Shia militias declared the border town of Baaj (160 kilometers southwest of Mosul, near the Syrian border) clear of ISIL forces and now occupied by government forces to keep it that way.

June 2, 2017: In the northwest (west of Mosul) several hundred members of an Iran-backed Shia militia crossed into Syria despite assurances by the Iraqi government that these pro-Iran militias would not enter Syria. The militiamen did not stay long in Syria.

June 1, 2017: The unofficial burqa ban in Mosul became official. Since November Iraqi troops have regularly demanded that women uncover their faces at checkpoints to verify they are not ISIL men seeking to evade security. That worked so well that more and more women dispensed with the face veil altogether. This was fairly common before ISIL took the city in mid-2014 and women were reluctant to abandon the face veil even when ISIL was driven out of parts of the city after the government offensive began in October. Women feared ISIL might return, but by early 2017 more Mosul residents changed their minds and more women went out regularly without the veil. Security forces will still encounter ISIL men wearing burqas, but avoiding checkpoints. Even those incidents are now rare and there seemed to be no popular opposition to a ban on face veils.

May 27, 2017: In northern Iraq (West of Mosul near the Syrian border) another IRGC officer was killed while advising (or leading) Iraqi Shia militiamen. Iran has sent hundreds of IRGC officers, most of them from the Quds Force. Dozens of senior IRGC officers have been killed in Syria and Iraq since 2012.

May 26, 2017: The U.S. revealed that it had confirmed the deaths of three senior ISIL leaders since March due to American airstrikes in Syria and Iraq. Identifying exactly who was killed in airstrikes in enemy territory takes time and effort and that is usually considered worth it because the loss of senior people disrupts organizations like ISIL and such confirmations also verify the usefulness of some types of intelligence (informants, sensors, electronic monitoring and so on). All three of these leaders were foreigners (from Turkey, Algeria and another country that was not revealed). Most senior ISIL officials have fled to Syria but the one killed in Iraq, Abu Khattab al Rawi, was a combat commander (the other two were planners) and he was killed May 18 near the Syrian border at al Qaim. This was on the main road between Mosul and Raqqa, which was abandoned by ISIL on May 22nd because the area was being overrun by Iraqi forces.

May 23, 2017: ISIL announced that it had established secret headquarters in the north at Hawijah (50 kilometers south of Kirkuk city). Hawijah is in the center of Kirkuk province and has been the center of ISIL activity against the Iraqi Kurds, who control Kirkuk and everything north of that. There has been fighting between ISIL factions in Hawijah recently apparently because of a dispute over how the remaining few hundred ISIL members in Iraq and outside of Mosul would be organized. There are now two factions, one controlling Hawijah and ISIL forces in other northern provinces except for Nineveh, which is on the Syrian border and where Mosul is.

May 22, 2017: In the east, on the Iraqi border, ISIL pulled all its personnel out of the Iraqi border town of al Qaim and two other border towns the group had controlled since 2014. Qaim was special because it was the main border crossing between Iraq and Syria and increasingly hit with airstrikes and now ground forces as well. ISIL lost most other border towns already but held onto al Qaim as long as it could because it was a key link in the main road from Mosul to Raqqa. That link is apparently no longer considered essential because ISIL only holds a small (one or two percent) of Mosul and is about to lose that as well.
As much as she loves her work, 21-year-old Mangakino herd manager Donna McKinley admits dairy farming hours can be an impediment to social life  unless you join a Young Farmers Club.

Other dairy farmers dont laugh if you say you go to bed at 8pm  because at times we all do, says the vice-chair of the Tihoi Western Bays Young Farmers Club.

Donna, who made a career-change from qualified motor mechanic to dairying, says one of the first things she did when moving to the Tihoi area was join the young farmers club as a way of getting to know people.

I had attended a few young farmers club events when I had been doing relief milking around Te Puke and enjoyed them, so was keen to join up when I went full-time dairying.

Farming can be isolating, especially if you have moved to a new area, so its important to find ways to meet other people who also understand the demands of your working life.

Young Farmers clubs fill that role, says Donna, who joined the Tihoi club 12 months ago and is now on its executive committee.

Young Farmers clubs offers a lot of support and advice and our members are always happy to lend an ear when others are struggling.

The change of career has been a big step for Donna but shes totally committed to the dairy industry. My long-term goal is to have land and herd ownership and I have financial plans in place to ensure this happens. Ive done the budgets on what is needed to get there and the figures are pretty scary but its doable.

A very useful aid to achieving that goal, says Donna, was entering the 2017 Central Plateau Dairy Industry Awards  in which she was runner-up in the dairy trainee section, winning $2495 in prizes.

I absolutely recommend that all young dairy farmers enter the awards, which for me have not only been another great way to meet more people but also to learn so much from the judges, whose feedback was priceless.

I entered because I wanted to benchmark myself alongside others of similar age in the field and find out where I can improve. The in-depth feedback from judges can be quite critical, but it is done in a way not to hurt you but to help you. I learnt so much from the experience.

Donna, who currently works for Parkhill Farms Ltd milking 820 cows on the 340ha farm, plans to enter again next year.

Its such a valuable experience and that you have entered looks good on your CV as it shows prospective employers you are serious about the industry and improving your performance.

The prizes are also pretty awesome and everyone who enters gets a really great goodie bag, but more than all that it is about personal development.

Donna wants to progress to a second-in-charge position by the 2017/2018 season, with farm management by 2020. Shes also a motorsport enthusiast, and in her spare time Donna is pit crew for Liam Honnor Drift, the youngest drifter in New Zealand, putting her two years as an automotive apprentice to good use. She also enjoys riding horses.

To find out more about Young Farmers Clubs and details of your nearest club go to: www.youngfarmers.co.nz
I pray for his long and healthy life, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his tweet wishing Rahul Gandhi on his 47th birthday.

By India Today Web Desk: Rahul Gandhi turns 47 today and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first ones to wish the Congress vice president.

"Birthday greetings to the Congress Vice President, Shri Rahul Gandhi. I pray for his long and healthy life," PM Modi said in his tweet.

Birthday greetings to the Congress Vice President, Shri Rahul Gandhi. I pray for his long and healthy life. @OfficeOfRG- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

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Rahul is currently in Italy on a vacation at his grandmother's house.

Rahul Gandhi has been aggressively targeting PM Modi for leading what he termed as a 'suit boot ki sirkar'. The Congress leader has often accused the PM of helping big industrialists while neglecting the poors.

"Na kisaano ka karza maaf karte hain, na bonus dete, bas goliyaan dete hain (They don't waive off loan of farmers. Neither do they give any bonus. They have only bullets to offer.)," Rahul Gandhi had said after being arrested while on his way to Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh where six farmers were killed in police firing earlier this month.

"Narendra Modi can waive loans of the countrys rich but cant do so for farmers," he had said.

ALSO READ:

PM Narendra Modi responds to tweets, Rahul Gandhi will act in 3 years: Himanta Biswa Sarma at Mind Rocks

Rahul Gandhi to Narendra Modi: Congratulations. PM's reply: Thank you. Long live democracy!

PM Modi knows why Uttarakhand earthquake happened. And it has a Rahul Gandhi connection

What Rahul Gandhi tweeted in response to PM Modi's taunt

WATCH: Congress leader calls Rahul Gandhi Pappu on WhatsApp, removed from all party posts

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GCP Applied Technologies Inc. produces and sells specialty construction chemicals and specialty building materials worldwide. The company's Specialty Construction Chemicals segment offers concrete admixtures under the CONCERA, CLARENA, ADVA, CLARENA RC40, STRUX, MIRA, TYTRO, POLARSET, ECLIPSE, DARACEM, DARASET, DCI, RECOVER, WRDA, and ZYLA brands; admixtures for decorative concrete under the PIERI brand; concrete production management and control systems under the VERIFI brand; engineered concrete slab systems under the DUCTILCRETE brand; and cement additives under the OPTEVA HE, TAVERO VM, CBA, SYNCHRO, HEA2, TDA, and ESE brands. Its Specialty Building Materials segment provides building envelope products to protect structures from water, and manages air and vapor transmission through building walls under the BITUTHENE, PREPRUFE, ADPRUFE, HYDRODUCT, ADCOR, SILCOR, PERM-A-BARRIER, ELIMINATOR, INTEGRITANK, and RIW brands; residential building products comprising specialty roofing membranes and flexible flashings under the ICE & WATER SHIELD, TRI-FLEX, VYCOR, and ULTRA brands; fire protection materials under the MONOKOTE brand; chemical grouts for repair and remediation in waterproofing and soil stabilization applications under the DE NEEF, HYDRO ACTIVE, SWELLSEAL, DE NEEF, and PURe brands; cementitious grouts and mortars used for under filling and gap filling under the BETEC brand; and specialty flooring products, such as flooring moisture barriers and installation products under the KOVARA and ORCON brands. The company was incorporated in 2015 and is headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia.
The following companies are subsidiares of Kroger: 84.51 HQ Building Company LLC, 84.51 LLC, Alpha Beta Company, Ansonborough Square Investors I LLC, Ansonborough Square Retail LLC, Ardrey Kell Investments LLC, Bay Area Warehouse Stores Inc., Beech Tree Holdings LLC, Bleecker Ventures LLC, Bluefield Beverage Company, Box Cutter Inc., CB&S Advertising Agency Inc., Cala Co., Cala Foods Inc., Cheeses of All Nations Inc., Country Oven Inc., Crawford Stores Inc., Creedmoor Retail LLC, Dillon Companies LLC, Dillon Real Estate Co. Inc., Dillons, Distribution Trucking Company, Dotto Inc., Edgewood Plaza Holdings LLC, Embassy International Inc., FM Inc., FMJ Inc., Farmacia Doral Inc., Food 4 Less GM Inc., Food 4 Less Holdings Inc., Food 4 Less Merchandising Inc., Food 4 Less of California Inc., Food 4 Less of Southern California Inc., Fred Meyer, Fred Meyer Inc., Fred Meyer Jewelers Inc., Fred Meyer Stores Inc., Glasswing Labs LLC, Glendale/Goodwin Realty I LLC, Grubstake Investments LLC, HT Fuel DE LLC, HT Fuel NC LLC, HT Fuel SC LLC, HT Fuel VA LLC, HTGBD LLC, HTP Bluffton LLC, HTP Plaza LLC, HTP Relo LLC, HTPS LLC, HTTAH LLC, Harris Teeter, Harris Teeter LLC, Harris Teeter Properties LLC, Harris Teeter Supermarkets Inc., Harris-Teeter Services Inc., Healthy Options Inc., Henpil Inc., Home Chef, Hood-Clayton Logistics LLC, Hughes Markets Inc., Hughes Realty Inc., I.T.A. Inc., IRP LLC, ITAC 119 LLC, ITAC 265 LLC, Inter-American Foods Inc., Inter-American Products Inc., J.V. Distributing Inc., Jondex Corp., Jubilee Carolina LLC, KCDE  2013 LLC, KCDE-2 LLC, KCDE-3 LLC, KCDE-4 LLC, KCDE-5 LLC, KGO LLC, KPF LLC, KPS LLC, KRGP LLC, KRLP Inc., KV Anderson LLC, Kee Trans Inc., Kessel FP, Kiosk Medicine Kentucky LLC, Kirkpatrick West Retail LLC, Kroger Community Development Entity LLC, Kroger Dedicated Logistics Co., Kroger Fulfillment Network LLC, Kroger G.O. LLC, Kroger HQ LLC, Kroger LM Real Estate Holdings LLC, Kroger Limited Partnership I, Kroger Limited Partnership II, Kroger MC Holdings LLC, Kroger MTL Management LLC, Kroger Management Co., Kroger Management  Corryville LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Athens I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Champaign I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Champaign II LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Cincinnati I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Dallas I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Danville I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Logansport I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Missouri I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Oak Ridge I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Olney I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Omaha I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Portsmouth I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Starkville I LLC, Kroger Management  NMTC Topeka I LLC, Kroger NMTC Fremont I LLC, Kroger OZ1 Inc., Kroger OZ1 LLC, Kroger OZ2 Inc., Kroger OZ2 LLC, Kroger OZ3 Inc., Kroger OZ3 LLC, Kroger Opportunity Fund I Inc., Kroger Prescription Plans Inc., Kroger Specialty Infusion AL LLC, Kroger Specialty Infusion CA LLC, Kroger Specialty Infusion Holdings Inc., Kroger Specialty Infusion TX LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy CA LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy FL 2 LLC, Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings 2 Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings 3 Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings I Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Holdings Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Inc., Kroger Specialty Pharmacy LA LLC, Kroger Texas L.P., LCGP3 Home Cooking Inc., Latta Village LLC, Local Mkt LLC, Main & Vine LLC, Matthews Property 1 LLC, Mega Marts LLC, Michigan Dairy L.L.C., ModernHealth LTC, Murrays Cheese LLC, Murrays Cheese LLC, Murrays LIC LLC, Murrays Table LLC, Pace Dairy Foods Company, Paramount Logistics LLC, Pay Less Super Markets Inc., Peyton's-Southeastern Inc., Plum Labs LLC, Pontiac Foods Inc., Queen City Assurance Inc., RBF LLC, RGC Southeast Properties LLC, Ralphs Grocery Company, Relish Labs LLC, Rocket Newco Inc., Roundy's, Roundys Acquisition Corp., Roundys Illinois LLC, Roundys Inc., Roundys Supermarkets Inc., Second Story Inc., Shop-Rite LLC, Smiths Beverage of Wyoming Inc., Smiths Food & Drug Centers Inc., Southern Ice Cream Specialties Inc., Stallings Investors I LLC, Sunrise R&D Holdings LLC, Sunrise Technology LLC, TLC Corporate Services LLC, TLC Immunization Clinic LLC, TLC of Georgia LLC, The Kroger Co. of Michigan, The Little Clinic LLC, The Little Clinic Management Services LLC, The Little Clinic of Arizona LLC, The Little Clinic of Colorado LLC, The Little Clinic of IN LLC, The Little Clinic of Kansas LLC, The Little Clinic of Mississippi LLC, The Little Clinic of Ohio LLC, The Little Clinic of TX LLC, The Little Clinic of Tennessee LLC, The Little Clinic of VA LLC, Topvalco Inc., Ultimate Mart LLC, Ultra Mart Foods LLC, Vandervoort Dairy Foods Company, Vine Court Assurance Incorporated, Vitacost, Vitacost.com Inc., Woodmont Holdings LLC, and YOU Technology.

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The BJP has sought support from Opposition parties including the Congress. But given the reaction of CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, a contest looks imminent despite Amit Shah expressing hope that Ram Nath Kovind will be elected the 14th President of India unopposed.

By Prabhash K Dutta: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind will, in all likelihood, succeed Pranab Mukherjee as the President of India. BJP president Amit Shah, announcing Kovind's name for President, said that the alliance partners of the NDA had already been consulted for the presidential election.

The BJP has sought support from Opposition parties including the Congress. Amit Shah said that Congress president Sonia Gandhi would decide her party's stand in few days. Some parties like TRS and Samajwadi Party have already announced support to the NDA candidate.

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But, given the reaction of CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, a contest looks imminent despite Amit Shah expressing hope that Ram Nath Kovind will be elected the 14th President of India unopposed.

Only Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was elected to the highest office unopposed. However, his election was challenged in the Supreme Court. In fact all except three presidential elections were challenged in the Supreme Court.

As per existing provision, a dispute arising out of the presidential election can only be challenged in the Supreme Court. A five-judge bench of the apex court hears the dispute.

RAJENDRA PRASAD

First President of India Dr Rajendra Prasad remains the only person to occupy the post for two terms. In the first presidential election in 1952, Rajendra Prasad defeated Constituent Assembly member form Bombay Prof KT Shah securing 83 per cent of the total votes polled.

Rajendra Prasad's colleague in the Constituent Assembly, KT Shah accepted defeat with democratic spirit and did not challenge the presidential election in the Supreme Court.

But, when Rajendra Prasad won his second term with 99 per cent of votes defeating NB Khare, the presidential election was challenged the in Supreme Court in 1957. Khare alleged that the election was not conducted 'properly'. The apex court dismissed the petition rejecting Khare's claim.

ZAKIR HUSSAIN

In 1962, Dr Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan became president defeating Chowdhry Hari Ram. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan polled 553,067 votes and Chowdhry Hari Ram got 6,341 votes while third contestant Yamuna Prasad Trisulia secured got 3,537 votes.

Radhakrishnan was succeeded by Dr Zakir Hussain, who was the fourth President of India and third person to occupy the office in 1967. He defeated Koka Subbarao with a margin of over 1.08 lakh votes.

Zakir Hussain's election to the office of President was challenged not by his contenders but by Baburao Patel, who was a film journalist interested in politics. He was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1967 from Shajapur in Madhya Pradesh as Jan Sangh candidate.

Baburao Patel alleged that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had exerted undue influence in the presidential election violating the vote by conscience mandated by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952.

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The Supreme Court dismissed Baburao Patel's plea saying that what he referred to as undue influence was canvassing, without which elections would not be possible in democracy.

VV GIRI

Zakir Hussain died in office - one of the two Presidents to have suffered such a fate. The other person to die while in office of the President was Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.

VV Giri was elected as the next President in 1969 defeating N Sanjiva Reddy, who was the official candidate of the ruling Congress party.

The then Prime Minister prompted VV Giri to stand the presidential election. Then canvassing for VV Giri Indira Gandhi made fervent appeal to Congress and other MPs to vote as per their conscience even if it meant to go beyond party's stand.

VV Giri defeated N Sanjiva Reddy while another contestant Shiv Kirpal Singh took the matters to the Supreme Court.

Shiv Kirpal Singh alleged that the battery of cabinet ministers led by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi misused their official position to influence the outcome of the presidential poll. The apex court dismissed the petition challenging VV Giri's election as President but not before issuing notice to him seeking clarification.

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SERIAL CHALLENGERS

The next three winning candidates for presidential elections were handpicked by Indira Gandhi. Incidentally, the election of all three - Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, N Sanjiva Reddy and Giani Zail Singh to President's office was challenged by a rather non-serious candidate Charan Lal Sahu, who was a lawyer by profession.

The Supreme Court dismissed all the successive pleas challenging the presidential elections from 1974 to 1982.

Charan Lal Sahu also went on to challenge the presidential elections in which KR Narayanan and APJ Abdul Kalam emerged winners. But, this time, the Supreme Court was so irked with Sahu challenging the presidential elections that it warned him from wasting judiciary's time.

Like Charan Lal Sahu, there was one Mithilesh Kumar Sinha who challenged the elections of R Venkatraman and Shankar Dayal Sharma. A very interesting contender who hit headlines in 1992 presidential election was Kaka Joginder Singh alias Dharti Pakad. He secured more than 1,135 votes against Shankar Dayal Sharma.

PRANAB MUKHERJEE

Pratibha Patil succeeded APJ Abdul Kalam in the President's office. Her election was not contested in the Supreme Court. She had defeated Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, who was the Vice-President then.

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Pratibha Patil was succeed by Pranab Mukherjee, who beat NDA's nominee PA Sangma, who challenged his election in the Supreme Court on the grounds of office of profit.

Sangma contended that since Pranab Mukherjee held the post of the chairman of the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata, he was holding the office of profit at the time of filing his nomination for the presidential election.

The Supreme Court, though, acknowledged that Pranab Mukherjee held the office of profit but held that he did not gain any profit from that position and hence his case was not suitable for disqualification on the same ground. The five-judge bench decided the matter with a majority of three to two.

Going by the trend, July may witness another petition reaching the Supreme Court questioning the election of the next President of India.

Also read:

Ram Nath Kovind as presidential candidate: How BJP continues to aggressively woo Dalits

Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

TRS, TDP extend support to NDA's presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind

Ram Nath Kovind: All you need to know about NDA's pick for President

Presidential election 2017: How BJP, Congress have picked candidates

ALSO WATCH: Presidential election: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is NDA candidate

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Genesee & Wyoming Inc. owns and leases freight railroads. It operates through three segments: North American Operations, Australian Operations, and U.K./European Operations. The company transports various commodities, including agricultural products, autos and auto parts, chemicals and plastics, coal and coke, food and kindred products, lumber and forest products, metallic ores, metals, minerals and stone, petroleum products, pulp and paper, waste, and other commodities. It owns or leases 122 freight railroads, including 105 short line railroads and 2 regional freight railroads located in the United States, 8 short line railroads located in Canada, 3 railroads located in Australia, 1 railroad located in the United Kingdom, 1 railroad in Poland and Germany, and 2 railroads in the Netherlands with a total of approximately 16,200 miles of track. The company also operates 6,200 additional miles of track that is owned or leased by others. In addition, it operates deep sea maritime containers and provides bulk haulage, including coal, aggregates, cement, and infrastructure services. Further, the company provides rail service at approximately 40 ports; rail-ferry service in North America, Australia, and Europe; and contract coal loading and railcar switching for industrial customers. Genesee & Wyoming Inc. was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Darien, Connecticut.
Regions Financial Corporation, a financial holding company, provides banking and bank-related services to individual and corporate customers. It operates through three segments: Corporate Bank, Consumer Bank, and Wealth Management. The Corporate Bank segment offers commercial banking services, such as commercial and industrial, commercial real estate, and investor real estate lending; equipment lease financing; deposit products; and securities underwriting and placement, loan syndication and placement, foreign exchange, derivatives, merger and acquisition, and other advisory services. It serves corporate, middle market, and commercial real estate developers and investors. The Consumer Bank segment provides consumer banking products and services related to residential first mortgages, home equity lines and loans, consumer credit cards, and other consumer loans, as well as deposits. The Wealth Management segment offers credit related products, and retirement and savings solutions; and trust and investment management, asset management, and estate planning services to individuals, businesses, governmental institutions, and non-profit entities. The company also provides investment and insurance products; low-income housing tax credit corporate fund syndication services; and other specialty financing services. As of March 01, 2022, it operated through a network of 1,300 banking offices and 2,000 automated teller machines across the South, Midwest, and Texas. Regions Financial Corporation was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama.
Rogers Communications Inc. operates as a communications and media company in Canada. It operates through three segments: Wireless, Cable, and Media. The company offers mobile Internet access, wireless voice and enhanced voice, device and accessory financing, wireless home phone, device protection, e-mail, global voice and data roaming, bridging landline, machine-to-machine and Internet of Things solutions, and advanced wireless solutions for businesses, as well as device delivery services; and postpaid and prepaid services under the Rogers, Fido, and chatr brands to approximately 11.3 million subscribers. It also provides Internet and WiFi services; smart home monitoring services, such as monitoring, security, automation, energy efficiency, and smart control through a smartphone app. In addition, the company offers local and network TV; on-demand television; cloud-based digital video recorders; voice-activated remote controls, and integrated apps; personal video recorders; linear and time-shifted programming; digital specialty channels; 4K television programming; and televised content on smartphones, tablets, and personal computers, as well as operates Ignite TV and Ignite TV app. Further, it provides residential and small business local telephony services; calling features, such as voicemail, call waiting, and long distance; voice, data networking, Internet protocol, and Ethernet services; private networking, Internet, IP voice, and cloud solutions; optical wave and multi-protocol label switching services; IT and network technologies; and cable access network services. The company also owns Toronto Blue Jays and the Rogers Centre event venue; and operates Sportsnet ONE, Sportsnet 360, Sportsnet World, Citytv, OMNI, FX (Canada), FXX (Canada), and OLN television networks, as well as 55 AM and FM radio stations. The company was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee said she had spoken to a few opposition leaders who were equally surprised by the BJP's announcement.

By Romita Datta, Indrajit Kundu: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday expressed her surprise at the BJP's decision to announce Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind's name as the NDA presidential candidate.

In her very first reaction, Mamata said, " I felt I fell from the sky".

"In order to support someone, we must know the person. I have not heard of him. I don't know him," she said in her statement.

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"Candidate should be someone who will be beneficial for the country," Mamata said on her way to Netherlands for a three-day official trip, adding that she will attend the meeting of opposition political parties on June 22 after which any decision could be announced.

"It is not that I am questioning his credentials or credibility. I love everyone but we have to know the background, the person and then only can we support the candidature," she said while justifying her position.

The Trinamool Congress supremo said she had spoken to a few opposition leaders who were equally surprised by the BJP's announcement. "There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP they have made him the candidate," Mamata alleged.

Stating, that the office of the president was a key post, Mamata said, someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj or BJP patriarch Lal Krishna Advani may have been a good candidate.

Mamata Banerjee in on her way to Holland to receive the prestigious UN Public Service award on UN Public Service Day on June 23.

Also read:

Ram Nath Kovind as presidential candidate: How BJP continues to aggressively woo Dalits

Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

TRS, TDP extend support to NDA's presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind

Ram Nath Kovind: All you need to know about NDA's pick for President

Presidential election 2017: How BJP, Congress have picked candidates

ALSO WATCH: Presidential election: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is NDA candidate

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The Telangana Rastr Samiti president and chief minister K Chandrasekhar rao confirmed this party's support to NDA presidential candidate after the phone call.

By Ashish Pandey: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar R ao has extended his party - Telangana Rastr Samiti (TRS) - support to BJP-led NDA's President nominee Ram Nath Kovind.

Soon after the BJP announded Kovind's name as the presidential candidate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called KCR. During the telephonic conversation between the two leaders, the Telangana CM said his party will support Kovind.

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"As per your suggestion we have decided upon a Dalit Candidate for the Presidential Post," PM Modi told Rao while requesting his support.

After the phone call, K Chandrashekhar Rao immediately consulted his party colleagues and conveyed his party support for the Presidential candidate to the PM.

Apart from TRS, YSR Congress Party has also extended its support to NDA candidate.

Ruling Telugu Desam Party of Andhra Pradesh, which is also an important partner of NDA has already confirmed its support.

ALSO READ

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Presidential election 2017: Will Shiv Sena break ranks with NDA 3rd time in a row?

Presidential election 2017: How BJP, Congress have picked candidates in last 15 years

How PM Narendra Modi can now have a president of his choice

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The ruling party has sought to convey two messages by nominating Kovind - thank the Dalit community for their support and tell them that they are genuinely concerned about their welfare.

By Kumar Shakti Shekhar: By nominating Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the July 17 presidential election, BJP has once again proved that it has been aggressively wooing the Dalits. Kovind, who was president of BJP's Scheduled Caste (SC) Cell from 1998 to 2002, is a Dalit.

Fielding Ram Nath Kovind, from Uttar Pradesh, as the presidential candidate is a continuation of BJP's strategy to woo the Dalits. The ruling party has sought to convey two messages by nominating Kovind - thank the Dalit community for their support and tell them that they are genuinely concerned about their welfare.

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As a Rajya Sabha MP, Kovind was member of Parliamentary Committee for SC/ST Welfare. He was also a member of Management Board for Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow.

If he wins, Kovind would be only the second Dalit president after KR Narayanan who had been elevated from the post of vice president in 1997.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have been continuously seeking to garner the support of the Dalits. They have also been successful in their attempt. BJP twice upset the Mayawati-led BSP's applecart - first in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and subsequently in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections held earlier this year.

In UP, BJP won a massive 71 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats and 312 of 403 in the Assembly. Dalits constitute about 17 per cent of the highest populous state in the country.

Promoting Kovind as the president seems to be the best bet if the party has to bank upon the Dalits for 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the forthcoming Assembly polls, such as in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Karnataka - in the next couple of years.

HOW BJP WOOS DALITS

BJP has been attaching immense importance to all symbols associated with Dalits. For instance, it has been observing Dalit icon Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth and death anniversaries with utmost sincerity. On his 126th birth anniversary this year, PM Modi visited Nagpur and inaugurated a series of development projects.

Nagpur is closely associated with Ambedkar as it was in this city the country's first law minister had reverted to Buddhism with approximately 600,000 followers on October 14, 1956, which was Ashok Vijaya Dashami. "We are unwavering in our efforts towards creating a strong, prosperous and inclusive India of Ambedkar's dreams. Jai Bhim," Modi had said.

Last year on the same day, Modi had visited Mhow near Indore in Madhya Pradesh. Mhow is the birthplace of Ambedkar. Modi had addressed a rally at Mhow.

Narendra Modi has also been seen regularly interacting with the Dalits. On April 20, 2015, Modi had laid the foundation stone of Dr Ambedkar International Centre at Janpath in the capital. On November 14, 2015, he inaugurated BR Ambedkar Memorial in London.

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The Maharashtra government is transforming the building where Ambedkar lived in London into an international memorial-cum-research centre. Parliament had observed Constitution Day on November 26, 2015 during the Winter Session and a special discussion was held on Ambedkar.

On December 6, 2015, the Prime Minister released two commemorative coins, as part of the 125th Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations. The coins, of Rs 10 and Rs 125 denomination, were issued on the Mahaparinirvan Divas (death anniversary) of Ambedkar.

On March 21, 2016, Modi had laid the foundation stone for a memorial of Ambedkar in New Delhi, which will cover the important aspects of his life.

The BJP chief has also been playing his part to win over the Dalits. On May 30, 2016, Shah ate a meal with Girjaprasad Bind and Ikbal Bind's family, who belong to the Dalit community, in Jogiyapur village in Sevapuri Assembly segment of UP. Jogiyapur falls under PM Narendra Modi's Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi.

Earlier in the same month, the BJP president had taken a holy dip along with saints, retired bureaucrats and police officials, mostly from the Dalit community, as part of "Samrasta Snan (a holy bath for social harmony)" at Valmiki ghat of Kshipra river during Simhastha in Ujjain.

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This was followed by Shah felicitating the saints and having a community meal with them. With symbolism galore, Valmiki is identified with the Dalit author who had written the Ramayana and it is also a Dalit community in several parts of the country.

BJP GAMEPLAN PAYING OFF

BJP's consistent efforts seem to be helping it wean away the Dalits from BSP and Congress. Despite campaigns by the Opposition to discredit BJP over issues - such as thrashing of Dalits by cow vigilantes in Gujarat and alleged suicide of Hyderabad University scholar Rohith Vemula, supposedly belonging to the SC category - the people of this community voted for the party in UP.

It had got a jolt in Bihar. Just before the state Assembly elections in 2015, JD (U) and RJD had highlighted RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's statement on reservation. They sought to convey to the voters that BJP was against reservation and would do away with it. This was one of the reasons for BJP-led NDA's defeat.

Nominating Ram Nath Govind is also an attempt to put a lid on such controversies.

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Also read:

Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

TRS, TDP extend support to NDA's presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind

Ram Nath Kovind: All you need to know about NDA's pick for President

Presidential election 2017: How BJP, Congress have picked candidates

ALSO WATCH: Presidential election: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is NDA candidate

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Uddhav Thackeray has called for a meeting of party leaders on Tuesday before deciding on his party's support for presidential candidate.

By Kiran Tare, Kamlesh Damodar Sutar: Hours after BJP president Amit Shah announced that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind will be the NDA candidate in the presidential election, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on late Monday announced that the party will take a decision on whether to support Kovind or not on Tuesday.

While addressing the party workers on the occasion of the party's 51st foundation day, Thackeray said that he was not in favour of nominating a Dalit for the coveted post with an eye over the Dalit votes. "I disapprove of politics in the name of Dalits. I will not have objection to anyone if the person thinks of the entire country and not about a specific community," he said.

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Thackeray reiterated that he had suggested names of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and agriculturist MS Swaminathan because they are good people. "What is our relation with them? I had suggested Swaminathan's name because he understands the pain of the farmers," he said.

Earlier in the day, Shah had telephoned Thackeray to convey him that Kovind will be the NDA candidate for presidential election.

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said that the party will take a decision on Kovind's nomination after consulting its leaders. "Amit Shah called up Uddhav ji after the NDA's presidential candidate was decided in the BJP's parliamentary board meeting. He sought Shiv Sena's support on Ram Nath Kovind. Uddhav ji told him that he will convene a meeting of party leaders to take a consensus on our decision and convey our answer to him in 1-2 days," Raut said.

ON FARMER AGITATION

Uddhav also spoke about the recent farmer agitation and insisted that he had no qualms whatsoever about openly supporting the farmer's agitation. "Don't try to threaten us with mid-term polls. We will react like a wild fire. The picture is changing, no one should think victory is everlasting. If you impose mid-term polls, we will pounce on you and flutter our saffron flag," Uddhav threatened the BJP without naming the party.

"We are friends, but if you backstab us then we will hit back hard," Uddhav added.

UPA TO MEET ON JUNE 22

Meanwhile, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has announced that it will be a part of UPA allies meet to be held in Delhi on June 22 to decide on their presidential candidate. "All parties of the UPA will meet on June 22 at 4 pm to decide on who would be our presidential candidate. The NCP too will be a part of it," NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said.

He said that the future course of action by Opposition parties regarding the presidential polls will be decided at the meeting. The NCP has already made it clear that its chief Sharad Pawar is not in the race of presidential election.

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Also read: Ram Nath Kovind: Why BJP's presidential pick may face Supreme Court test after he is elected

Also read: Ram Nath Kovind is BJP nominee for President: 5 other times Amit Shah-led party surprised us

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Ram Nath Kovind will succeed Pranab Mukherjee as the 14th President of India.

By India Today Web Desk: Ram Nath Kovind is the 14th President of India.The 71-year-old has become the second Dalit Indian President after KR Narayanan.

More about Ram Nath Kovind, the 14th President of India:

Ram Nath Kovind was born on October 1, in the year 1945 at Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh (UP)

He started his career as a lawyer. He practiced as the Central Government advocate at Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979

He was a permanent advocate for the Centre at the Supreme Court between 1980 and 1993

Kovind was a Rajya Sabha member between 1994 and 2006 from UP

He was the general secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Koli Samaj in Kanpur and the national president of the BJP Scheduled Caste Morcha

He has served as a member of the following committees:

Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs Parliamentary Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas Parliamentary Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice Chairman of Rajya Sabha House Committee

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President Pranab Mukherjee's term comes to an end on July 24. Kovind will take the Presidential oath on July 25.

Interested in General Knowledge and Current Affairs? Click here to stay informed and know what is happening around the world with our G.K. and Current Affairs section.

To get more updates on Current Affairs, send in your query by mail to education.intoday@gmail.com

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DMK leader MK Stalin stages walkout from Tamil Nadu Assembly over Chief Minister E Palaniswami's reply on FIR filed in RK Nagar bypoll bribery case. Stalin was also amused with the Election Commission's reply in the Madras High Court on the matter.

By Pramod Madhav: A day after the Election Commission's order to register FIR against AIADMK (Amma) leaders including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami and TTV Dinakaran in RK Nagar bypoll bribery case, the matter took a curious turn today.

Opposition leader MK Stalin of DMK is the common chain to join the dots of the story that unfolded today first in the Tamil Nadu Assembly and then in the Madras High Court.

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First thing first. Stalin raised the issue in Tamil Nadu Assembly seeking a reply from the Chief Minister about the status of the case and who all have been booked in connection with the RK Nagar bypoll bribery case.

Earlier, the Election Commission had issued orders to lodge FIR against AIADMK (Amma) after an RTI petition sought information about the case from the poll panel.

IN THE ASSEMBLY

Responding to Stalin's demand, Chief Minister E Palaniswami said that a case was registered and investigation was going on in the matter.

Stalin was not impressed with this reply from the Chief Minister and he pressed for more information as to who all were named in the FIR. EPS did not give details of the case.

A fuming, Stalin led a DMK walk out from the Assembly. Stalin called Chief Minister E Palaniswami's reply inadequate. Stalin demanded resignation of EPS from his post.

"The RTI application names of the Chief Minister and other ministers but if this government has initiated a probe, how could he still be the CM and expect a fair probe. He should resign immediately and prove his innocence," Stalin said.

IN THE HIGH COURT

Later in the day, a case that was filed by lawyer-activist Vairakannan in connection with RK Nagar bribery scandal came up for hearing in the Madras High Court. The Election Commission's reply to the Madras High Court further infuriated MK Stalin.

The Election Commission told the high court that a case had been registered in this connection in April itself. However, the intriguing part of the story is that the case filed in April named 'unknown persons' as accused while on Sunday, the Election Commission issued orders to lodge FIR against AIADMK leaders named in the RTI petition.

Stalin was anguished with the reply of the Election Commission. He was not happy with the wording of the letter by the Election Commission. The Election Commission has directed the Returning Officer in RK Nagar constituency that FIR 'may be' filed against AIADMK (Amma) leaders, Stalin said.

The DMK will raise the issue in Tamil Nadu Assembly tomorrow citing the 'loose strings' in the Election Commission's order.

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WHAT IS THE CASE?

After the income tax department raid on Tamil Nadu Health Minister Vijayabhaskar's residence, the revenue department of the central government submitted a report to the Election Commission saying that AIADMK had set aside certain amount 'to be distributed among voters'.

The Election Commission had cancelled the bypoll for RK Nagar constituency, which had fallen vacant after former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa's death.

Now, the Madras High Court has asked the Election Commission to submit to it the 'preliminary evidence' collated by the income tax department. The court had also asked the Tamil Nadu police to fire separate report on the matter before the case comes up for hearing on June 23.

The RTI petition which led to fresh order by the Election Commission for FIR has mentioned the names of TTV Dhinakaran, Edapadi K Palanisamy, Vijayabhaskar, Thangamani, SP Velumani, and two other ministers while seeking information from the poll panel.

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Hudsons Bay Co. should close and redevelop the stores it owns if it cant operate profitably as a retailer, according to a U.S. activist investor who revealed his interest on Monday.

Hudsons Bay is a real estate company, full stop, reads the public letter to HBCs board of directors from Jonathan Litt, founder and chief investment officer of Land & Buildings Investment Management, LLC, based in Stamford, Conn.

The firm has acquired approximately 4.3 per cent of Hudsons Bay shares.

If there is a smarter and better use of any or all of the locations, stores should be closed and redeveloped and put towards their optimal use, reads the letter from Litt.

It points to the Saks Fifth Avenue location across from the Rockefeller Center in New York City as an example of HBCs prime real estate, describing the spot as likely one of the most valuable locations not only in Manhattan, but in the United States, and asks whether the best use of the property is as a store.

What about a hotel? Or office? Or boutique retail stores the likes of Apple and Gucci? Or an internet retailer looking to go upscale through a bricks and mortar presence as Amazon appears to be doing with its purchase of Whole Foods, the letter goes on to ask.

Hudsons Bay should evaluate all strategic options, including selling or repurposing real estate or taking the company private, according to Litt.

HBC acknowledged receipt of the letter, but declined to comment. The Company is reviewing the letter and will respond in due course, it said in a statement.

HBC shares soared more than 15 per cent on the news, closing at $10.22.

The letter lands on the heels of a deeply disappointing first quarter for HBC, which operates 480 stores in Canada, the U.S., Germany and Belgium, under banners including Hudsons Bay, Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor. It posted a net loss for the quarter of $221 million.

The true value of the company, according to Land & Buildings, lies in its real estate, not its retail brands. The letter pegs the real estate value of HBC at $35 per share, or four times the $8.88 a share the stock was trading at when the letter was drafted.

It goes on to say that Land & Buildings has watched over the past few months as HBC publicly sought merger partners, including Neiman Marcus or Macys.

Any transaction of this type would be challenging and complicated. To date, the only result of these efforts has been the stock declining nearly 25 per cent since the deal talks surfaced, and the company announcing last Thursday that it would be undertaking a massive $350 million restructuring to realign its own business to get ahead of the challenging retail landscape,  according to the letter.

In our view, the whole time the companys management has been struggling to navigate this complicated maze of M&A (merger and acquisition) options, the answer lies in its own real estate portfolio.

Hudsons Bay owns the vast majority of its real estate, according to Land & Buildings.

As such, it is one of those rare diamonds in the rough that a real estate investor occasionally finds in a career . . . even if the real estate is worth half the companys estimate, the shares would still be worth double todays share price.

In the letter, Litt says that while his firm does not know Richard Baker, governor and executive chairman of HBC, HBC board member Bill Mack, a real estate investor, is chairman of the board of Mack-Cali, where Litt served as a board member.

Litt is a former managing director and senior property analyst at Citigroup, where he was responsible for global property investment strategy. He founded Land & Buildings in 2008.

HBC spinning off its real estate assets has been a discussion among analysts since other retailers such as Canadian Tire and Loblaws have done the same thing in the past few years, said Rebecca Teltscher, portfolio manager, Leon Frazer and Associates Investment Counsel.

While Mr. Baker has admitted that HBC should have spun off its real estate last year, an activist interest in the company could speed up the process and accelerate an HBC real estate investment trust (REIT) IPO (initial public offering).

Generally, activist investors are looking at strategies to maximize value for shareholders, but in the short term, Teltscher added. HBC spinning off its real estate could be at the expense of its retail business at a time where traditional bricks and mortar retail companies are suffering.

Richard Powers, associate professor at the Rotman School of Management and national academic director for the Directors Education Program, said that while activist investor interest tends to boost stock prices in the short term, its less clear whether it is beneficial in the long term.

By stripping the real estate value out of HBC, can they survive on their own as a retail operation in a very tough market right now? If youre a betting person, the smart money is probably on No,  said Powers.

The boards responsibility is to maintain and grow the long-term value of the company.

Typically, activist investors go after mid-cap companies, according to research into Canadian proxy contests by the business law firm Fasken Martineau.

But success provides activist investors with more capital, which makes it possible for them to go after bigger companies such as HBC, said Powers.

Jeff Gramm, author of Dear Chairman: Boardroom Battles and the Rise of Shareholder Activism, said activism can be great for investors when it forces much-needed management and board overhauls at poorly run businesses.

But activism can also be incredibly destructive if it pushes the company into dumb, near-sighted decisions. When activists push a company to sell itself, the ultimate outcome for shareholders depends on whether an auction to the highest bidder will produce more value than sound, long-term management.

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DENVERColorado dad and Denver-area anesthesiologist Tim Farnum has always understood the intrigue of modern technology. Smartphones, tablets and unfettered Internet access connect us to faraway corners of the world and make life  and movie watching  all the more convenient.

But the father of five is not convinced these devices are beneficial for children, a conclusion he came to after his two youngest sons, ages 11 and 13, got smartphones last year.

There were some real problems, said Farnum, 49. If you tell them to watch the screen time, all of a sudden the fangs come out.

Read more:

Ban smartphones, laptops from kids bedrooms, pediatrics group urges

Pacifying toddlers with tablets, smartphones may hurt development, scientists speculate

South Korea worried about smartphone addiction

As he tells it, his once energetic and outgoing boys became moody, quiet and reclusive. They never left their bedrooms and when he tried to take away the phones, one of Farnums sons launched into a temper tantrum that the dad described as equivalent to the withdrawals of a crack addict.

So Farnum started researching the side effects of screen time on kids and found statistics that astonished him. Too much technology too soon can impair brain development, hinder social skills and trigger an unhealthy reliance on the neurotransmitter dopamine, a high similar to what drug and alcohol addicts feel.

Farnum read it all, then said he thought to himself: Someone has got to do something.

In February, he formed the non-profit PAUS (Parents Against Underage Smartphones) with a few other medical professionals and began drafting a ballot initiative that, if passed, would make Colorado the first state in the U.S. to establish legal limits on smartphones sales to children.

Farnums proposal, ballot initiative No. 29, would make it illegal for cellphone providers to sell smartphones to children under the age of 13. The ban would require retailers to ask customers the age of the primary user of the smartphone and submit monthly adherence reports to the Colorado Department of Revenue.

The department would be responsible for creating a website portal for the reports and would investigate violations and collect penalties. The first violation would incur a written warning. A second would produce a $500 fine, and the amount would double with each subsequent incident.

The initiative has garnered overwhelming support from parents and grandparents who worry that too much technology can stunt imaginations and appreciation for the outdoors, he claims. But Farnum also faces opposition from others, including some lawmakers, who believe that its a parental responsibility, not one for government.

Frankly, I think it should remain a family matter, state Sen. John Kefalas ( D-Fort Collins) told the Coloradan. I know there have been different proposals out there regarding the Internet and putting filters on websites that might put kids at risk. I think ultimately, this comes down to parents . . . making sure their kids are not putting themselves at risk.

Farnum said he understands the pushback from those who see this as a parental responsibility and a law as an encroachment on parental power, but said his group sees premature smartphone access as a danger equivalent to smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol or watching pornography.

We have age restrictions on all those things because theyre harmful to kids, Farnum said. This is no different, in my opinion.

The proposal also distinguishes smartphones from other cellular devices, such as standard flip phones, that cannot access the Internet, because many parents just want to be able to contact their children for safety reasons.

Though the goal is to curb what Farnum described as the corporate interest of cellphone companies and app makers from latching onto the younger generations, he admitted that there is also an educational component of his crusade. Many parents dont know the dangers of excessive technology usage, he said, or the permanent damage it can do to their children.

Because iPads and tablets are even entering the classroom at an earlier age, Farnum said it is a real struggle for parents to feel like they have control over their childrens exposure to technology.

Hopefully this helps and pushes the conversation forward, Farnum told the Post.

The non-profit has cleared some of the initial hurdles that come with proposing new legislation, but still has a long road ahead. PAUS will need to collect roughly 100,000 signatures over the next year and a half to get the issue on the ballot in the fall of 2018.

By the end of June, Farnum plans to have the official petition printed and ready for signatures. Colorado does not accept digital petition signatures, so Farnum and his group will have to collect support the old-fashioned way.

Its kind of ironic, perhaps, he said. Were going to have to go knock on doors and sit outside grocery stores. Its slowly gaining steam.

Next week, Farnum, who characterizes his views as fairly libertarian, is meeting with the most liberal democratic senator in the state. But he is trying to keep the initiative away from partisan politics.

I think its good that were all going to get to vote on it, he said. The parents all have to come together and do this.

At home, Farnums two young sons no longer have smartphones  at least for now. They spent much of their second semester of the school year nearly technology free, and he says he saw a notable difference.

They laughed again and wanted to be outdoors.

One, Farnum recalled, even offered a striking admission: Hey dad, I really like reading now.

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Two groups of doctors and the Ontario Medical Association are headed to court Monday to argue that OHIP payments to top-billing physicians are personal information and should not be public.

The information and privacy commissioner last year ordered the public disclosure of the top billers identities, along with amounts each receives in payments from the taxpayer-funded insurance plan. The information is business-related, not personal, and should be public because of the importance of transparency of government expenditures, the ruling said.

A judicial review of that decision is being sought by the OMA and two groups of doctors  known in court submissions only as several physicians affected directly by the order and affected third-party doctors. They are asking a three-judge panel in Divisional Court to quash the information and privacy commissioner tribunals order.

The case originated more than three years ago with a freedom of information request from the Star to Ontarios Health Ministry for physician-identified data on the top 100 billers.

The ministry granted partial access  payments and most medical specialties  but withheld physician names, deeming that their release would be an unjustified invasion of privacy.

The Star successfully appealed that decision to the privacy commissioner, arguing there is a public interest in disclosure of the names.

The top 100 OHIP billers took in a combined $191 million in 2012-13, according to data supplied by the ministry. The highest biller alone claimed more than $6 million, while the second- and third-highest billers each claimed more than $4 million. Nineteen doctors received payments of more than $2 million each.

The judicial review of the case is significant because the outcome could affect how much data on physician billings can be released in the future. Pending the outcome of this case, the information and privacy commissioner has put on hold another appeal by the Star, this one seeking the release of physician-identified billings for all Ontario doctors.

Other jurisdictions  including British Columbia, Manitoba and the United States  already release such data annually.

And Ontario already makes public the names and salaries of doctors employed in the public sector  for example, at hospitals  in its annual Sunshine List of public servants earning more than $100,000.

But they represent only a small fraction of Ontarios 29,000 physicians, most of whom work as independent contractors.

The privacy commissioners June 2016 ruling in the case states that OHIP payments contribute to physicians gross revenue, which is not the same as personal income. The information, therefore, is not protected under the privacy provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), adjudicator John Higgins wrote.

His decision departed from previous rulings by the commissioner that found such information to be personal. The Supreme Court has found that past decisions are not binding in such administrative decision-making.

Even if it were personal information, Higgins wrote, there is a compelling public interest in disclosure, which overrides FIPPA privacy exemptions.

For Higgins order to be quashed, the Divisional Court would have to find that it was unreasonable.

The appealing doctors argue that Higgins erred by not being consistent with previous privacy commissioner rulings. The factum from several physicians and affected third-party doctors states:

The adjudicators determination that the information being sought was not personal information is wrong as a matter of both fact and law and is clearly unreasonable. While he recognized the existence of those prior determinations  he chose to ignore or distinguish them on specious grounds while ignoring the overwhelming weight of authority they supply.

The doctors argue, Ones name is the most intimate of personal information.

These doctors also contend the privacy watchdog was not objective in its handling of this case. They point to a 2014 Star article, which revealed the paper was launching the appeal. Information and privacy commissioner Brian Beamish was quoted as saying there was a growing trend toward transparency of information related to government expenditures and that an appeal would provide a good opportunity to take a fresh look at the issue.

Beamish was initially the adjudicator on this case, but recused himself at the request of the doctors.

The OMA argues that physician names should remain confidential given that doctors are not government employees.

Physicians are not public servants with clearly defined salaries, benefit plans and government pensions. Quite simply, revenue (from OHIP billings) is not income, the OMAs factum states.

Many physicians have additional huge overhead costs which can include not only rent or equipment but the employment of dozens of support staff and/or allied health professionals. Physician billing information is simply not comparable to the salary of police chiefs, and has such a high likelihood of misinterpretation by the public (as) to render it meaningless, it continues.

A factum from the privacy commissioner argues that the application for the judicial review should be dismissed because the doctors have not positively demonstrated the order was unreasonable.

It charges that the doctors, in their factums, speak little of the actual decision which is the subject of this judicial review. Instead, they seek to re-argue  their position before this court.

The Stars factum notes that under FIPPA, the presumption is access. The burden of proof rests with those seeking to limit disclosure to make their case.

Spending on health consumes almost half of the provincial budget and payments to doctors under OHIP represents a significant portion of that spending, the Stars factum states.

Government expenditures have been recognized as critically related to the transparency and accountability goals of access to information legislation, it says, adding that the government routinely discloses payments to consultants, private parties and employees.

The doctors position

A number of Ontarios top-billing doctors sent affidavits to the provinces information and privacy commissioner explaining why they are opposed to the release of physician-identified billings. Here are some of the reasons they provided:

Gross billings do not at all reflect our take home pay. As small business owners, we have costs attributed to staffing, rental and high capital costs. Furthermore, we as physicians need to contribute and fund our own insurances (like disability) and retirements.

Making public the gross billing amounts of the physicians is a gross misrepresentation of the amount physicians take home as net profit. Personally I work in 2 large group practices with 30+ staff. The overhead to run such a practice is in excess of 40% of gross billings.

My billings are the result of providing care to a large population of (a) community. I do not take days off in the week . . . On average, I see 100 patients a day, which is 4-5 times more than the average family doctor. I invested heavily in diagnostic equipment and lasers. In most communities, these lasers are based in the hospital and paid for by the government.

There is a level of trust between (patients and physicians). Disclosure of such personal information may affect that trust and negatively impact the patient-physician relationship.

No doubt the request has something to do with income envy or the current tenet of the times, income inequality. In my own case the data would in no way reflect my income . . . It is very difficult to attract (doctors) to come north of Hwy 7. This publicizing of billings will make that even harder.

The gross dollar value amount that would be released could be construed by some as greed and abuse of the system. Also, with a quick uptick in crime in our area, personal safety for me and my family would be a concern.

This is a gross invasion of privacy. It supplies a valuable target for crime and mischief whether at my own home or through fraud, network hacking or other such means.

My work is dependent upon the smooth interplay of many health care professionals including anesthesiologists, open surgeons, intensivists, nurses and technologists. On a personal level release of my name would be embarrassing and  as jealousy could ensue  would be destructive to my professional practice and create conflicts in professional relationships with colleagues and peers.

 Everything should be done to protect the hard working doctors so that they do not become a target of terrorist activity. Since this news will be available to everybody, including the terrorists, I do not think it is going to serve us in anyway (sic). I definitely do not want my family to be harassed by terrorists of anybody else; for example my family members could be kidnapped and asked for ransom.

This disclosure causes physician low self esteem in public eyes and affects their performance drastically.

Three organizations also sent representations to the information and privacy commissioner, arguing why doctors identities should remain under wraps: The Ontario Medical Association, the Ontario Association of Radiologists and the Eye Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.

Who are the doctors?

Heres what we know about the doctors who want the courts to quash an order from the privacy commissioner to reveal the identities of the highest OHIP billers:

There are three groups of them: the Ontario Medical Association, which represents the entire profession; one group that describes itself as Several Physicians Affected Directly by the Order; and another that goes by the name Affected Third Party Doctors.

The latter two groups comprise 34 physicians, all of them men, more than half of whom practice in the GTA. Approximately one-third are radiologists and another third are ophthalmologists. They are among the top OHIP billers.

Their medical specialties: radiology (12), ophthalmology (11), internal medicine (4), cardiology (4), critical care (1), general surgery (1), vascular surgery (1), nuclear medicine (3), rheumatology (1), obstetrics and gynecology (2), dermatology (1).

*Individual counts exceed total number of physicians because some have more than one specialty.

Their primary practice locations: Toronto (8), Peel Region (5), York Region (2), Halton Region (2), Durham Region (1), Ottawa (2), Hamilton (1), London (1), rest of province (12).

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We alighted at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts just in time for the 140th anniversary of Swan Lake. The National Ballet of Canadas principal dancer Heather Ogden  who has returned to the stage to standing ovations in this classic ballet following the birth of her second child  met us at the Richard Bradshaw Amphitheatre to demonstrate a Yin yoga pose called Sleeping Swan. A classic hip opener, this version of the pose is best for those with healthy knees.

1. Begin in Downward Facing Dog Pose with a blanket and yoga bolster within arms reach, just in case you need them.

2. As you inhale, fly your right leg skyward and lift high onto your left toes.

3. Then, exhale as you land your bent right knee behind the right wrist.

4. Angle the shin forward towards the top of your mat, to suit your flexibility, and ballerina-point your right foot. If the right sitting bone feels ungrounded, nest it on top of a folded blanket.

5. Slide the left leg backwards with the knee joint open and the top of the foot resting on the mat.

6. Lengthen your waist with an inhale, then exhale the upper body softly over your front leg. Feel free to support belly and chest from underneath with a yoga bolster.

7. Enliven your back by breathing into the shoulder blades and back ribs.

8. Rest in Sleeping Swan for three minutes per side.

Swan Lake

The National Ballet of Canada presents at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing ArtsSwan Lake at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, until June 25. Principal dancer Heather Ogden is partnering, once again, with her husband, principal dancer Guillaume Cote, after the birth of their second cygnet.

YuMee Chung is a recovering lawyer who teaches yoga in Toronto. She is on the faculty of a number of yoga teacher training programs and leads international yoga retreats. Learn more about her at padmani.com

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OTTAWANDP leadership candidate Charlie Angus is promising to find better ways to protect the interests of First Nations, Metis and Inuit children  including by dismantling the Indigenous Affairs Department.

The Ontario MP said he would create a federal ombudsperson for Indigenous children, who would have the legal authority to order government departments to comply with policies aimed at improving child welfare.

Last month, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal found the federal governments failure to fully implement Jordans Principle may have played a role in the suicide deaths of two 12-year-old girls from remote Wapekeka First Nation in northwestern Ontario.

The principle lays out how to handle jurisdictional disputes over paying for services to First Nations children, saying the first level of government to be contacted should cover the cost, with arguments over jurisdiction to be sorted out later.

Angus said he would also audit the Indigenous Affairs Department and Health Canada in order to figure out how the government runs its programs and then work with Indigenous communities on giving them the power to run them.

Its time for action that returns accountability to where it belongs, with parents and these communities, Angus said in a news release Sunday.

Angus also said he would work with the parliamentary budget office to determine the true cost of delivering service to Indigenous peoples, ensure the Department of Justice stops fighting Indigenous rights in court and end the culture of secrecy when it comes to government plans and funding for Indigenous communities.

Angus is one of five candidates to replace NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair in October.

Read more: NDP leadership candidate Jagmeet Singh takes aim at job insecurity, inequality

The others are Ontario MPP Jagmeet Singh, B.C. MP Peter Julian, Manitoba MP Niki Ashton and Quebec MP Guy Caron.

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OTTAWAThe woman appeared content for the moment, waiting under a tree for a little bit of salvation to fall  quite literally  from the sky.

International Development Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau recalled seeing the woman in a northern remote region of South Sudan during a four-day visit that wrapped up Monday.

The woman was one of the four million South Sudanese who have been internally displaced because of the four-year-old civil war raging in their country. Another two million have fled the country as refugees.

Its the middle of nowhere for us, she didnt even have a roof over her head, Bibeau recalled in a conference call.

She was sleeping under a tree waiting for airdrops to feed her family.

South Sudan has emerged as one of the newest drivers of the larger global crisis in displaced people, one that reached epic new proportions Monday when the United Nations released the latest record-breaking number quantifying the problem: 65.6 million people on the planet have fled their homes.

Read more:

UN food agency warns South Sudan conflict is fuelling famine

Attacks on civilians in South Sudan on the rise, UN says

The South Sudanese homeless are almost totally dependent on humanitarian assistance because when they do find sanctuary, they cant resettle safely or grow food to feed themselves, said Melanie Gallant, head of humanitarian campaigning for Oxfam Canada.

Were talking about people who are used to going through shocks and stresses, but theyve just exhausted their coping mechanisms. The markets have collapsed in most places so even if you had money to buy food, it doesnt mean you have any food to buy in the market.

Uganda, South Sudans southern neighbour, has become Africas largest host refugee country with 1.2 million refugees, three quarters of them South Sudanese.

About 40,000 South Sudanese refugees have entered Uganda every month over the last year, 86 per cent of them women and children, said the World Refugee Council, a new organization run by Canadas Centre of International Governance Innovation.

Michael Messenger, the president of World Vision Canada, has been in the northern Ugandan town of Arua watching the influx of South Sudanese. He said Monday about 100 unaccompanied children are crossing the border each day; their parents have either been killed or have otherwise fallen by the wayside during the exodus.

Its the fastest growing refugee crisis in the world; children are at the heart of it, said Messenger.

While Uganda has been very open, at a certain point, theres a breaking point. There are parts of northern Uganda where the refugees actually outnumber the host communities.

Canada announced an additional contribution of $86 million to assist famine and war ravaged South Sudan. Thats on top of the $36.9 million Canada gave to South Sudan in March.

Bibeau said the funds will improve access to basic health services, including family planning and reproductive health care for women and girls, as well as increasing access to food.

Bibeau, who also met government officials on the four-day trip, said the suffering can only be alleviated if the warring factions lay down their arms.

Were obviously concerned about the constant flow of South Sudanese refugees going to neighbouring countries. Uganda has been extremely generous, she said.

What is needed is a durable solution for peace in South Sudan, and we support the role of South Sudans neighbours in this process.

The new funds announced Monday are an addition to the Famine Relief Fund recently announced in response to the widespread food crises in South Sudan, Somalia, Nigeria and Yemen, in which the government will match the contributions of Canadians until June 30.

Conflict is really the common theme between those countries, said Gallant.

Of course, as populations are being displaced, thats a big factor for what were seeing in hunger crises and famine.

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Sasikala nephew Jayanand Divakaran did not rule out the BJP's attempts to gain ground in Tamil Nadu but said that the AIADMK continues to remain strong at the ground level.

Sasikala nephew Jeyanandh Dhivaharan said that his aunt, despite being in jail, continues to control the party and dismissed talks of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami distancing himself from the Mannargudi family.

In an exclusive interview to India Today, Jeyanandh Dhivaharan, son of Sasikala's brother Dhivaharan, said that it his aunt, the general secretary of the AIADMK (Amma) faction, who will decide if the faction will support the BJP candidate in the upcoming Presidential Election.

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Jeyanandh Dhivaharan did not rule out the BJP's attempts to gain ground in Tamil Nadu but said that the AIADMK continues to remain strong at the ground level.

HERE ARE EXCERPTS FROM THE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SASIKALA's NEPHEW:

Q: Did you expect that the judgment would come against Sasikala?

No, we didn't expect that the judgement will come against her because if you go through the judgment you can see there are lots of flaws. According to me I can see a lots of flaws in that; since the A1 is not there, you cannot convict the A2, A3, A4 just like that.

Q: Do you feel there was some pressure from certain quarters which led to your aunt going to the prison?

No. We can just assume that there is pressure but we cannot be very concrete about that. It may be a mere assumption by the general public or by the AIADMK cadets. We don't think that there is an actual pressure. Let's wait for the review.

Q: Is the merger (with OPS faction) happening or not?

I don't think that at this point in time a merger will happen.

Q: Who initiated the merger talks then?

Merger talks were initiated because we did not want to lose the 10 per cent MLAs. But if they (O Panneerselvam-led faction) are not willing to join, we don't really care for that 10 per cent. We don't even know if they have the support of the 10 per cent MLAs they claim to have.

Q: Why did O Panneerselvam leave the party?

He has not given any proper answer to us.

Q: Are the doors still open for OPS?

Yeah, definitely. If he wants, he can definitely join us.

Q: Do you think Edapaddi Palaniswami is still with you? Is the family still in touch with him?

I don't think he is distancing himself from the family. We are distancing ourselves from the party. For the time being, we are distancing ourselves because he is the chief minister of Tamil nadu. He is functioning in his own way. So let him function. I think there are many officials to guide him. So there is no need to for us to guide him. If needed, we can give him advice.

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Q: Several ministers have said that they are distancing themselves from Sasikala.

When EPS became the chief minister, Sasikala told him to function independently. She is not going to dictate anything (to him). She is going to run the party. She is still the general secretary and she has to run the party.

Q: Will you support the BJP candidate in Presidential Election?

Let them announce the candidates. Our general secretary will decide who we should be backing.

Q: Is BJP trying to gain a ground in Tamil Nadu?

It is natural that if a party is getting weak, the other party will be getting stronger. But I don't think AIADMK cadres will lose hope. Let there be as many factions, the party is still the same at the grassroots.

Q: What happened to Jayalalithaa's health?

She was in the critical care unit and we could not have gone and asked her that we needed to take her picture to circulate it in media. Lots of nurses were going in and out of the room. The governor met her and she showed him a thumbs up. I don't know what else we need to prove. I don't think it's necessary.

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Q: There were some videos and pictures of Jayalalithaa in the hospital.

Even if there are pictures of her in the hospital, those can be shown only to a certain group of people. If the need arises, the judge will see the video but you cannot circulate it. This is about a woman's privacy.

Q: So you will give it when needed?

The general secretary has to say if she has a video or not. She should say that first. If she says yes, then definitely she will give it if the need arises.

Q: Has Jayalalithaa left a will?

My aunt (Sasikala) has to answer that. So far, we don't know (if she left a will).

Q: What kind of role you want or play in the party? Are you active in party?

As of now, I am just a primary member. I like to observe things. I like to give suggestions to people on how they can approach a subject.

Q: There are talks about Rajinikanth joining politics.

He has not not made a public announcement; when he does that, the party will take a stand.

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Q: The Sasikala clan is called the Mannargudi mafia.

Stalin was the first to call us like that. We don't mind someone like Stalin calling us as a mafia. To throw a mafia, you need a mafia.

ALSO READ:

Sasikala in jail but 'mafia from Mannargudi' is here to stay. Who are they?

After RTI query, EC orders FIR against Tamil Nadu CM Palaniswami, TTV Dinakaran

Tamil Nadu war for thrones: Number crunching begins as TTV Dhinakaran makes a comeback

ALSO WATCH: BJP Parliamentary Board to finalise presidential nominee; Van rams into pedestrians in London; more

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HALIFAXA Nova Scotia mother confronted the former MMA fighter accused of murdering her son Monday, shouting out to him as he was led into a courthouse after being extradited from Venezuela.

Surrounded by about three dozen friends and supporters, Gloria Adams called out to Steven Douglas Skinner as officers escorted him from a sheriffs van and into Dartmouth provincial court under a heavy police presence.

Skinner, Skinner  whos this right here? she shouted, gesturing to herself as the 44-year-old Cole Harbour man was led into the building in handcuffs. I feel better now.

The crowd broke out in applause after the much-tattooed Skinner was taken inside to face a second-degree murder charge in the death of Stacey Adams, 20, in April 2011. A few people wore t-shirts saying, We Stay On Point Like Stacey Adams.

Police had issued an international warrant for Skinners arrest shortly after Adams was found dead in Lake Echo in April 2011.

Skinner, 44, was arrested by Venezuelan law enforcement on Margarita Island in May 2016. A photo released by Venezuelan authorities after his arrest showed Skinner in colourful swim trunks, his bare chest covered in sand.

Skinner, who fought as a light-heavyweight at 205 pounds, had a 3-2 professional record, according to mixed martial arts website Sherdog.com.

RCMP worked with Venezuelan authorities for the past year and say Skinner was extradited to Halifax on Saturday.

Gloria Adams said she was at work Saturday when a homicide officer notified her that Skinner had touched down on Canadian soil and would be appearing in court a couple of days later.

She said she was intent on addressing Skinner, who looked briefly at her as he climbed the stairs to the court.

I just wanted him to understand how much my son meant to me, always will, she said after his brief court appearance.

She said it was bittersweet seeing him in court, years after launching a bid to have him arrested and returned to face the charge. She was accompanied by Ellen Etmanskie, the mother of Stacey Adams 5-year-old son.

As time goes on, you live with hope, you continue your hunt, you fulfil your promise and at the end of the day let it be an example for anybody else out here that wants justice. Listen, jump on board and do everything you gotta do to bring it, Adams said.

When something like this happens to a family, a mom, you get thrown into a world that you dont even know exists. I went into a rage that I never thought that as a human being and as a mother that I was capable of having.

Skinners case was adjourned until July 5.

He also faces several other charges, including aggravated assault, forcible confinement and weapons charges, in relation to a 2009 incident in Lower Sackville.

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If civil actions had bookies, these horse folks might be 100-to-1 longshots.

Three years ago, a group of Ontario racehorse breeders took Kathleen Wynnes government to court over claims the province made a bad faith decision in 2012 to abruptly end a lucrative revenue-sharing agreement with the horse racing industry. The standardbred breeders allege cancellation of the Slots at Racetracks Program damaged their livelihoods.

But the rural plaintiffs  who in 2015 notched a legal victory in obtaining government documents tied to the agreement cancellation, as court-ordered disclosure  continue to battle the government.

On Monday, the sides are back in a Guelph courthouse. Ontario Superior Court Justice Michael Emery will hear motions from the province and co-defendant Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp. to quash summonses for 13 witnesses  including Wynne, her predecessor Dalton McGuinty, former finance minister Dwight Duncan and economist Don Drummond.

The evidence shows that these are the folks who are the only ones who can bring any level of transparency to the decision that was made and imposed in 2012, said Toronto lawyer Jonathan Lisus, who represents the breeders seeking $65 million in damages.

They were directly and personally involved in the decision, its implementation and the response to the harm that was caused.

The province and the OLG deny all allegations of wrongdoing in their statements of defence. Earlier this year, both filed motions to have the case summarily dismissed, a matter scheduled for a November hearing.

Emilie Smith, a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Attorney General, said in a written statement that Ontario has brought a summary judgment motion to proceed in Superior Court to have the action dismissed on the basis that it does not raise a genuine issue for trial.

After Ontario confirmed that it would be bringing a summary judgment motion, the plaintiffs served fifteen summonses to witness, Smith said.

Ontario has brought a motion to quash thirteen of the fifteen summonses on the basis that the evidence of the summonsed witnesses is not relevant to the summary judgment motion and that the summonses are an abuse of process.

She continued: As this matter is subject to litigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further.

OLG also declined comment. It would be inappropriate for OLG to comment on matters before the courts, said spokesperson Tony Bitonti.

The defendants have already deposed 17 plaintiffs. Lisus said his clients want the opportunity to examine current and former senior government officials on their witness list, under oath.

I understand the government may not want this decision-making process to be scrutinized but it (ending the slots agreement) caused a lot of harm to a lot of people, Lisus said.

The documents and evidence demonstrate they (the defendants) knew it would cause a lot of harm to a lot of people.

Around 1998, the slots agreement grew out of the Ontario governments interest in installing the machines at racetracks. In 2012, then-finance minister Dwight Duncan announced the revenue-sharing deal would be scrapped. With a years notice to the horse racing industry, it officially ceased in 2013. Up to that point, horse racings share of slots revenue was about $4 billion.

A key component of the breeders allegations hinges on the five-to-seven-year cycle needed to produce a standardbred racing horse from conception to the start gate. They claim the breeding cycle was well-known to the defendants, who also understood that breeders plan their businesses on this timeline.

Lisus said the governments one-year notice to end the slots deal devastated breeders, noting the value of horses completely halved overnight.

Its not the plaintiffs position that the revenue share had to continue forever or could never be renegotiated, the lawyer said.

The way the government did it, which was to essentially give no notice and say revenue sharing is going to stop, caused the bottom to fall entirely out of the market, and it never came back, Lisus continued.

The documents show they knew that would happen.

The breeders claim that information contained in the court-ordered disclosure shows senior government officials were planning to cancel the slots program without warning even while the province was reassuring the horse industry that the partnership would continue, according to the plaintiffs responding factum to the motion to quash summonses. The disclosure documents also contain emails between government officials.

Another aspect of the civil action pertains to the government compensating racetrack owners and not those who produce the racing animals after the slots deal was scrapped.

Ontario and OLG paid $80.6 million in compensation to those racetrack owners, while refusing to even discuss compensation for the standardbred breeders, are among the allegations contained in the breeders statement of claim.

The standardbred breeders were not a party to the slots contracts, which were signed by individual racetrack owners and OLG.

However, Justice Emery, in his 2015 decision to order broad document access for the plaintiffs, wrote that reports by (the Ontario Racing Commission) and other publications reflected the long-term nature of the commitments Ontario and OLG were making to racetracks and stakeholders in the horse racing industry.

The province, in its statement of defence filed by the attorney generals office, denied all allegations of liability and wrongdoing referred to in the plaintiffs claim and said at all times the Crown acted in the public interest.

In addition, government decisions made in relation to the implementation and termination of the Slots at Racetracks Program were core policy and fiscal decisions made in the public interest and made at the Ministerial and Cabinet level of government and are, accordingly, immune from suit, according to defence pleadings filed by the attorney generals office.

The province also contends: If the plaintiffs suffered any losses, which the Crown denies, those losses resulted from something other than actions of the Crown.

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An Ontario Superior Court judge has rejected a request by the province to dismiss a lawsuit filed against it by three Toronto police officers who claim they were falsely accused of beating two armed robbery suspects.

Crown attorneys do not have absolute immunity from civil claims other than claims for malicious prosecution and intentional non-disclosure, wrote Justice David Stinson.

In dismissing the provinces request to throw out the lawsuit, the June 13 decision still narrows the legal action filed by the officers.

Stinson concluded there is no formal legal duty imposed on Crown attorneys to protect the reputation of police during a prosecution. As well, to succeed in court, they must show that the Crown intentionally acted in violation of their duties, knowing or being recklessly indifferent that the conduct would harm the officers reputation.

The fact that the lawsuit is being allowed to proceed, despite the very high legal bar in Canada to sue prosecutors, was welcomed by Michael Lacy, one of the lawyers for the officers.

It puts the Crown on notice that if their conduct is such that it is not consistent with their role, they may be liable for misfeasance in public office, he said.

A spokeswoman for the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General noted that the province was successful on whether the Crown normally has a legal duty to officers. As well, it has until June 28 to appeal the decision.

As this matter is the subject of litigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further, said spokeswoman Emilie Smith.

The province can seek to appeal this ruling or continue with the normal process of discovery and exchange of legal documents in the lawsuit, which was filed last summer.

Sgt. Jamie Clark and Det.-Sgts. Steven Watts and Donald Belanger are seeking a total of $1.25 million in damages. They allege their reputations were harmed when the Crown stayed charges against one robbery suspect and the Ontario Court of Appeal overturned a conviction against the other. The basis was allegations that the experienced Toronto police officers beat the suspects, which the Crown conceded in court.

The officers always denied the allegations, and they were never called to testify at trial. The claims of beatings by the suspects were found to be unsubstantiated by a Toronto police professional standards unit, an OPP review of that probe and by the Special Investigations Unit.

None of the allegations in the civil action filed by the officers against the Attorney General of Ontario has been proven in court. The hearing before Stinson was whether there was a legal basis for the lawsuit to be allowed to continue, not to decide on any of the facts.

The decision noted that there is only one other court ruling in Ontario involving a civil claim against prosecutors that was filed by someone other than an accused.

In that case, Justice Wendy Matheson ruled last year that Durham Region police can proceed with a lawsuit against the Crown, alleging it provided negligent legal advice. An appeal of that decision will be heard by the Ontario Divisional Court later this year. The legal standard to be able to sue the Crown is lower than malice but higher than negligence, wrote Stinson.

Jonathan Rosenstein, a Toronto civil litigation lawyer who is not involved in the case, said Stinsons ruling is a practical one.

There is a very high legal bar for the officers. As a matter of policy, you cant have Crown attorneys worried about being sued by a police. It has to be a lot more than simply making a mistake, said Rosenstein, who also teaches advanced civil procedure at the University of Toronto law school.

At the same, there is not complete immunity.

The courts are not going to turn away a claim at first instance, just because they are government officials, he said.

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When Gregg Durrant left his home of Jamaica and came to Toronto as a refugee just over two years ago, he finally felt safe.

Living in Jamaica I got a sense of just existing and not living, he said, adding, Jamaica is pretty homophobic.

Durrant, 34, is one of many LGBTQ refugees the 519, a City of Toronto agency that offers support services for the LGBTQ community, has helped settle in Canada and escape persecution in their home countries.

Between April of last year and March this year, the organization has helped about 1,238 refugees. And compared to the first quarter of 2016, the first quarter of this year has seen a 71 per cent increase in the number of newcomers its assisted.

I was never out in Jamaica, because I was aware of the consequences of being out, said Durrant. I often masked my fears with smiles and pretended to be interested in girls, but people somehow were able to tell I am gay.

His decision to leave his home came after he was called homophobic slurs, robbed and held up at knifepoint in Jamaica, he said.

Coming here theres a sense of community and never before in my life have I been in a setting with over a hundred LGBTQ in one space interacting, said Durrant of the 519.

He fled his life in Jamaica and a job he loved teaching high school students.

Being in Canada it was totally different. I can exist and I can live being Gregg, being the gay Gregg, said Durrant, who is now the LGBTQ Refugee Programs Coordinator at the 519.

The highest percentage of refugees the 519 helps come from Africa, with the second largest from the Caribbean, said Karlene Williams-Clarke, the Manager of Direct Services.

About 18 per cent come from Eastern Europe and the rest are from the Middle East, she added.

Many people will say when they come here, in their country they dont have a space like the 519, said Williams-Clarke. Its the oasis of the gay village.

The agency is open and inclusive and offers a range of services from helping with refugee claims, immigration, medical care and counseling, said Williams-Clarke. The centre also offers individual, group and workshop services, and helps youth, seniors, families and transgender people.

Each year, the organization receives over half a million visits.

Its funded primarily through donations and through government and city funding, but it also runs events like the Green Space Festival.

The festival, a celebration of diversity and partying for a cause, began in 2008 and has raised over $1.5 million towards programs at the 519.

It is running from June 22 to 25 this year and most of the events are free to the public.

Though Durrant admits he still misses his old job as a teacher, something hed have to get retrained for to do again in Canada, he loves his work at the 519.

Im falling in love with what Im doing now because Im able to give back and theres a sense of fulfillment in that.

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Mayor John Tory wants the city to give more consideration to how taxi drivers will be affected by the King St. pilot project, after cab industry representatives argued that for-hire vehicles should be treated as a form of public transit.

The pilot, which would prioritize streetcar service while restricting the movement of private cars on King, was endorsed by the mayors executive committee Monday. The project will go to council next month for final approval.

In a speech before the vote, Tory said the city needs to take action to alleviate congestion on one of its main downtown thoroughfares.

I havent found anybody yet who doesnt agree with the notion King St. is not working in its present form. Its dysfunctional, Tory said.

In a 21st Century city, we simply have to be prepared to try things to move us off the status quo . . . I think we have to place some priority on the mode of transportation that is moving the most people, by far.

Roughly 65,000 people ride the TTCs 504 King streetcar route every day, compared to about 20,000 drivers who use the street. City staff argue that giving priority to streetcars would allow more people to move through the downtown core more efficiently.

Under the pilots proposed design, drivers would be forced to turn right at the end of each major block, effectively eliminating through traffic on King. City staff predict the restrictions will reduce car traffic on the street by about 50 per cent, freeing up space for streetcars, which would be allowed to travel the length of the street.

But after hearing from representatives of taxi companies who complained they had not been adequately consulted on the plan, Tory moved a motion asking city staff to consult with the industry and consider exempting taxis from the proposed turning restrictions, either completely or during certain times of day. The motion, which the committee approved, also asked staff to consider adding additional spaces for cab stands or other measures to assist taxis.

Explaining his motion, the mayor said that while he believed the citys consultation process had been extensive, there are some improvements we can certainly make. He said he wanted to make sure the taxi industrys concerns were addressed.

Earlier, Kristine Hubbard, operations manager for Beck Taxi, told the committee that cabs should be treated like streetcars and should be allowed to pass through intersections instead of being forced to turn at the end of blocks. She said that Beck dispatches about 50 cabs to King St. each day between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.

I do think we are part of the public transit system. Ive always said that. Whenever the subway or streetcar or whatever goes down, we are getting the troops together to head down and help move people, Hubbard said.

The citys chief planner, Jennifer Keesmaat, disagreed. She said giving taxis the same consideration as transit vehicles would undermine the pilot. City transportation staff estimate that between one-quarter and one-third of the cars on King are taxis.

Taxis are not public transit. They dont even carry remotely the volume of people we carry on public transit. Theyre not at the price point of public transit. Are they an important part of the movement system in the city? Yes. But are they public transit? Absolutely not, Keesmaat said.

Asked whether the fact that the city was considering treating cabs like transit vehicles was a sign that Toronto is reluctant to take bold moves to improve transportation, she replied: I think were getting stuck in some old thinking.

Councillor Joe Cressy (Ward 20 Trinity-Spadina) has been a strong supporter of the project, which would run through his ward.

He said he was deeply skeptical that consulting with the taxi industry would lead staff to change their recommendations before the council vote. The important thing, he said, was that the executive committee approved the pilot.

Any change is better than what weve got today, he said.

The pilot is estimated to cost about $1.5 million. If approved by council, it will be implemented in the fall and last for at least a year.

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Patrick Brown says his newest Progressive Conservative candidate  former Brampton MP Parm Gill  is now 100 per cent for gay rights.

Gill was nominated Sunday to run in Milton against Liberal cabinet minister Indira Naidoo-Harris in next Junes provincial election.

He appears in a 2015 Punjabi Post Youtube video saying he entered federal politics because the prospect of same-sex marriage in Canada pushed me over the edge.

Gill also attacks Premier Kathleen Wynnes updated sex-education curriculum in the 12-minute video, accusing her of trying to shove this down, this ridiculous policy, down our throats and calls parts of the lesson plans disgusting.

Brown defended Gill after speaking at a Pride flag-raising ceremony at Queens Park, telling a crowd of dozens of civil servants it doesnt matter who you love, a line he repeats in PC television commercials airing lately.

Parm Gill fully supports my direction, that we 100 per cent support Pride and equality and inclusion and gay rights, said Brown, who served with Gill under former prime minister Stephen Harper.

A lot of Canadians have had their opinions evolve on this, the PC leader added.

You look at Dalton McGuinty, you look at Jean Chretien. And if Parm had previous opinions, Im glad that they have matured. I didnt even realize he had a different position before.

Gill, who represented the riding of Brampton-Springdale from 2011 until his defeat in the 2015 Justin Trudeau sweep, could not be reached for comment.

Environment and Climate Change Minister Glen Murray said the selection of Gill as a candidate is a very clear signal that the Tories havent changed and called on Brown to reject his nomination.

I would imagine that Parm Gill is not going to be a candidate for the Conservatives because I cant imagine he (Brown) would sign papers for someone who said . . . his major motivation for going into politics was because gay marriage, as he put it, was a step too far, Murray, who is gay, said after the Pride flag event.

If you could kick Jack MacLaren out of your caucus for saying something no less egregious than what Mr. Gill said, why would you bring someone into your caucus who said something so extraordinarily offensive?

MacLaren announced he was quitting the caucus on the same weekend Brown fired him for remarks disparaging French-language rights.

Brown has been trying to lead the Conservatives  who havent won a provincial election in Ontario since 1999  closer to the political centre with more moderate positions such as a promised carbon tax, but stumbled with a flip-flop on his support for sex ed during last years Scarborough byelection.

At the flag-raising, Premier Wynne said she was happy to see a flag for transgender rights raised atop the Pride banner but noted homophobia and transphobia linger despite recent advances.

It pops up. It is not gone. It is a continued effort of education and discussion, added Wynne, who appeared with her partner, Jane Rounthwaite.

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NORRISTOWN, PA.In one of the more unusual scenes to play out at Bill Cosbys sexual assault trial, the judge questioned Cosby under oath as jury deliberations wore on to be sure he knew the mistrial he sought could lead to a second trial.

Cosby, the actor and comedian known as Americas Dad, turns 80 next month facing just that ordeal. Legal experts believe prosecutors will reshape their case for Round Two, although its not yet clear why jurors couldnt reach a verdict, or how close they came.

District Attorney Kevin Steele could ask the judge to let more of Cosbys 60 accusers testify or disclose to jurors that accuser Andrea Constand is gay. That never came up in her seven hours of testimony. The defence had hoped, if it did, to introduce evidence she had previously dated a man.

The key to retrying a case is to do it differently the second time, because the defence expects you to do it the same way, said Constands lawyer, Dolores Troiani.

Constand is on board for the retrial. And Steele on Sunday denied a media report that Cosby had ever been offered a plea deal.

Read more: Judge declares mistrial in Bill Cosby sexual assault case; prosecutors plan to retry charges

The juror names remain shielded from the public under a protective order that several news outlets have challenged. Judge Steven ONeill could revisit the issue as early as Monday. He advised jurors when the trial ended, after a week of testimony and 52 hours of deliberations, that they need not discuss the case, even as the public debates whether age, race, gender or other issues separated them.

It can never be clearer that if you speak up, you could be chilling the justice system in the future if jurors are needed in this case, ONeill told them.

Criminal law professor Jody Armour wonders if the bitter divide over social issues thats evident in American politics was at work in the jury room.

Social attitudes in general affect what happens in criminal trials, in rape cases. We can now wonder if a lot of those kinds of attitudes were at play in . . . Bill Cosbys rape case, said Armour, who teaches at the University of South California.

Two women jurors who appeared to be in their 30s or 40s looked anguished when they announced the final deadlock, wiping away tears with tissues handed to them by a sympathetic young man sitting between them. Other jurors were harder to read.

We get 12 people to agree on sex assault cases all the time, but this is not any case. Its an old case, its a controversial case, its a case that involves questions of consent, said professor Laurie Levenson, of Loyola Law School.

She once served on a jury where the foreperson was the lone holdout for an acquittal. She also recalled a Los Angeles case where an 11-1 vote to acquit in the first trial ended with a conviction the second time around. She believes the breakdown of the first Cosby jury is important to know, but perhaps not predictive of how the second trial might go.

Anything can happen because its a new set of jurors, Levenson said. The second time around, are they coming with an agenda? Do they want to save Cosby, or do what the first jury couldnt do, which was convict him?

Cosby is also battling sexual battery or defamation cases still pending by 10 women in California and Massachusetts. Several of them attended the criminal trial with their layers. The discovery in those cases is underway, but his deposition testimony will remain on hold until the retrial in the criminal case.

Publicist Andrew Wyatt raised a clenched fist as he led the legally blind Cosby out of the courthouse after the jury deadlocked Saturday, while cameras popped and his lead defence lawyer walked away. They attacked the judge, in a letter from Cosbys wife Camille, as arrogant and Steele as heinous and ambitious.

Cosby remains on $1 million bail over the three felony charges. ONeill could schedule the retrial within weeks.

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BOGOTAColombian President Juan Manuel Santos vowed to capture those responsible for detonating a homemade bomb that killed three people, including a French woman, in a busy shopping mall over the weekend and threatened to undermine years of security gains.

Santos offered a reward of around $35,000 to anyone with information about Saturdays attack at the upscale Centro Andino in the heart of the citys tourist district. The bomb, placed behind a toilet in a second-floor womens bathroom, went off as the mall was filled with Fathers Day shoppers.

Much attention has focused on the National Liberation Army, the last major rebel movement still active in Colombia, which has carried a spate of recent attacks against mostly police targets in the capital. But leaders of the group have repudiated the bombing and Santos refused to feed speculation on the possible perpetrators to not interfere in the investigation in its critical, early phase.

In appealing for calm and unity, Santos touched on Colombias long history of successfully combating drug-fueled violence and political extremism, saying the latest attack wouldnt derail peace efforts that have already resulted in a peace deal with the countrys main guerrilla movement, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

The Colombian people have the temperance, the resilience and the bravery to fight terrorism successfully, he said Sunday after a meeting with his top security aides. You can be sure were not going to let what weve achieved so far be stopped by a handful of extremist coward or people who dont want to see reconciliation in Colombia.

Later, he had a Fathers Day lunch at the mall with his son, encouraging others to go about their normal activities. Dozens of Colombians gathered to decry violence, some of them leaving flowers in honour of the victims.

Of the nine mostly women who suffered injuries, only one remained hospitalized, Santos said.

The 25-year-old French woman who died, Julie Huynh, had been in Bogota since February volunteering at a school in a poor neighbourhood as part of a masters program in international humanitarian aid. She was preparing to return to France in the coming days with her mother, who was with her in Bogota.

In a cruel irony highlighting how fragile Colombias peace remains, the French-backed charity where she worked helps families displaced by the countrys long conflict.

From the very beginning Julie showed incredible commitment and energy toward the construction of a culture of peace in Colombia as evidenced by her work with youth on after-school activities, the group, Proyectar Sin Fronteras, said in a statement. The group posted on its Facebook page a black ribbon in memory of Huynh as dozens of emotional messages poured in from people moved by her example.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who will meet Santos this week as part of a previously scheduled visit to Paris by the winner of last years Nobel Peace Prize, expressed his condolence to the victims family while his government condemned the attack with the greatest firmness.

France stands at the side of Colombia in this painful moment, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The ELN, which is engaged in long-running peace talks with the government, rejected accusations it was behind the attack.

We ask for seriousness from people making unfounded and reckless accusations, ELN negotiators at peace talks taking place in neighbouring Ecuador said on Twitter. This is the way people are trying to tear up the peace process.

The ELN in February claimed responsibility for a bombing near Bogotas bullring that killed one police officer and injured 20 other people. But the group, which is much smaller than the FARC, said it doesnt target civilians.

Penalosa urged residents of Bogotas wealthier districts to be on high alert but cautioned that there was no hint that other attacks being planned.

Some analysts attribute an uptick in violence in Colombian cities to the ELNs desire to wrest concessions from the government at the negotiating table. They also have expressed doubts about the ELN leaderships ability to control its roughly 1,500 troops, given that the group has traditionally operated with a much looser command structure than the highly-centralized FARC, which also condemned the attack.

Bogota has seen dramatic improvement in security over the past decade as the countrys long-running conflict has wound down. But the capital remains vulnerable to attacks as residents have let down their guard.

Still, the Andino shopping centre would seem a difficult target because all vehicles entering the parking garage are screened by bomb-sniffing dogs and security guards are present throughout the mall.

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HONG KONGIn many places, $664,000 can buy you a nice house. For that price in Hong Kong, you can buy a slab of concrete, roughly 17 feet long and 11 feet wide, to leave your luxury car.

Hong Kong is now home to a very expensive parking spot, the latest sign of a property market run amok. Even in a city well accustomed to costly real estate, the price spiral has confounded the most experienced observers.

This is basically the price of one flat in Hong Kong, said Lennon Choy, an associate professor of real estate and construction at the University of Hong Kong. This is crazy, actually.

Read more:

The costliest place to park in the world

The buyer was listed as Kwan Wai-ming, whom local news outlets identified as executive director of the Huarong Investment Stock Corp. His company declined to comment. That price, paid for a spot in an apartment complex on Hong Kong Island, was a new local record, breaking the previous $615,000 paid for a slightly smaller spot last year.

The huge price paid for a single parking spot illustrates the broader rise in real estate values. By some measures, Hong Kong is already the worlds most expensive housing market per square foot.

While the run-up has enriched property owners and developers, it has led to widespread worries that a generation of young residents will be unable to afford a home. The unaffordability of housing played a role in protests three years ago and has spurred leaders to try to address the problem.

A number of causes explain the run-up. A dense city spread over rocky islands and a peninsula that borders mainland China, Hong Kong has had a surge in investment from mainlanders looking for a relatively safe place to park their money. City officials tightly control the market for new land parcels, exacerbating supply limits.

As mainland developers have increased competition with longtime Hong Kong property giants, land prices have set records. And property developers are encouraging potential buyers by directly offering mortgages in competition with local banks.

New fees on out-of-town buyers and tighter rules on money leaving mainland China have done little to contain the rising prices.

The run-up is leading to worries about a damaging crash. Last month, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, which acts as the central bank, tightened mortgage lending rules in an effort to tame the market.

The risk of overheating in the property market in Hong Kong continues to increase, Norman Chan, the authoritys chief executive, said in a statement last month. He added, I would like to remind the public that, for most people, buying a property is not only one of the most important decisions in life, it is also a financial transaction entailing significant leverage through borrowing.

For his money, Kwan may get convenience. He already owns property in the same apartment complex where the parking spot is situated, called the Upton, in the Sai Ying Pun district. He previously bought two apartments for $9.7 million and two other parking spots in the complex for $995,000, according to the Hong Kong land registry.

Such an expensive parking spot may seem excessive in a city where transportation can be cheap. Hong Kong has a world-class mass transit system, and a passenger can cross Hong Kong Island for $1.30 on the subway, or  with a little patience  30 cents by tram.

But some wealthy residents revel in the recognition that comes with a Lamborghini or even a coveted license plate. Last year, a plate carrying the number 28, which sounds like a phrase for easy money in Cantonese, sold for a record $2.3 million at auction.

Of course, Hong Kong may not be unique. One New York City developer once asked $1 million for a place to park.

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BAMAKO, MALIAn Al Qaeda-linked Islamic militant group said Monday it staged an attack the previous day on a resort area in Mali popular with foreigners, killing five people, including a Portuguese soldier who had been serving in the European Union mission to stabilize this West African country wracked by mounting extremism.

The recently formed Mali-based Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen extremist group has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadi websites.

A Malian soldier and three civilians  a Chinese citizen, a Malian, and a French-Gabonese dual national  also were slain in the worst terror attack to strike Bamako since late 2015.

Read more:Gunmen attack, take hostages at Mali tourist resort

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the Malian victim worked for the European delegation in Bamako.

The attack struck a resort area that was considered safe enough that it was an approved rest and recreation location for soldiers with the EU mission. It was not immediately clear how the attackers managed to overpower the security staff and shoot at guests.

Malis special forces arrived on the scene not long after the reports of gunfire erupting from Campement Kangaba, known for its three swimming pools and serene surroundings as an escape from the bustling capitals heat and traffic.

Initially the countrys security minister said one of the wounded attackers had managed to escape but on Monday officials said they had accounted for all the jihadis.

At this hour, all of the terrorists have been killed. The situation is under control, Malis Security Minister Salif Traore told The Associated Press.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene Sunday afternoon, with one man saying the first jihadi on the scene arrived by motorcycle shouting Allah Akbar. Three others subsequently arrived in a vehicle and began firing their weapons. One of the attackers was subdued by a French soldier who happened to be at Campement Kangaba on the weekend, according to a witness at the scene. The attacker was wounded and later died.

Sundays violence also came about a week after the U.S. State Department warned of possible attacks on Western diplomatic missions and other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent.

Religious extremism in Mali once was limited to northern areas, prompting the French military in 2013 to lead a military operation to oust jihadis from power in the major towns in the north. But the militants have continued targeting Malian forces and peacekeepers, making it the most dangerous U.N. mission in the world.

There are no French troops based in Bamako, but about 2,000 French troops are based in northern Mali fighting Islamic extremists. French President Emmanuel Macron was informed about the attack and was following the events carefully, according to an official in his office.

In recent years, the extremists have become more brazen, attacking sites frequented by Westerners in the capital, Bamako.

In March 2015, five people died when militants hit a popular restaurant in the capital. A devastating attack on the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako later that year left 20 dead  six Malians and 14 foreigners.

That attack was jointly claimed by both the regional Al Qaeda affiliate and a group known as Al Mourabitoun, which was founded by extremist Moktar Belmoktar after he fell out with Al Qaeda leaders. In a video released in March, jihadis said those two were joining together along with two Mali-based terror groups, merging as Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen.

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By Press Trust of India: Bhubaneswar, June 19 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today said his government has adopted a zero casualty approach during disasters and stressed on special care for pregnant women, children, elderly persons and physically and mentally challenged during calamities.

"Special attention should be paid to the vulnerable population like pregnant women, physically and mentally challenged, children, widows and the elderly population during rescue and relief operation," Patnaik said while addressing a meeting of the state level committee on natural calamity here.

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The chief minister claimed Odisha will be the first state in the country to make Early Warning System (EWS) operational soon.

"A large number of disaster risk reduction and capacity building initiatives have been undertaken to reduce the vulnerability of people to different disasters. We have adopted a zero casualty approach for all disasters," he said.

Stating that the people will be issued disaster warnings through siren alert towers in six coastal districts, Patnaik said this will help in saving lives and properties in during cyclones.

"The period from June to October is the crucial period and adequate measures in respect to early warning system, rescue and relief operations, supply of drinking water, health and veterinary service must be put in place," he said.

Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and fire service should also remain alert for immediate response, the chief minister said adding, sufficient food materials should be stored in vulnerable and inaccessible areas.

Patnaik said control rooms at districts and departments should be functional round-the-clock and prompt response should be there for search, rescue, first aid, clearance of relief lines, immediate repair and restoration of lifeline infrastructure, immediate repair and restoration of lost livelihoods must be ensured in the aftermath of any disaster. PTI AAM DKB

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NORRISTOWN, PA.An alternate juror in Bill Cosbys sexual assault case said Monday he probably would have voted to convict and was ridiculously sick when he found out the main jury couldnt reach a verdict.

A mistrial was declared Saturday after jurors said they were hopelessly deadlocked. Prosecutors plan to retry the 79-year-old star on charges he drugged and molested a woman in 2004.

As an alternate, Mike McCloskey heard all the testimony but didnt participate in deliberations.

He told Pittsburgh radio station WDVE that jurors did not discuss the case on the bus ride after the trial, maintaining complete silence. The trial took place outside Philadelphia, but the jury came from the Pittsburgh area.

It was the craziest, eeriest bus ride Ive ever taken, said McCloskey, 43.

McCloskey posted his jurors badge on Facebook as proof of his role in the case. He did not immediately return a message from The Associated Press on Monday.

Jurors deliberated more than 52 hours over six days before telling a judge they couldnt break their deadlock. The jurors names havent been made public and the split on the vote hasnt been disclosed, shrouding the case in mystery.

Read more:

Cosby team triumphant, but sex crime retrial, lawsuits loom

Cosbys wife lashes out after sex-assault case declared mistrial

Judge declares mistrial in Bill Cosby sexual assault case; prosecutors plan to retry charges

Prosecutors are fighting to keep the jurors identities a secret, arguing in court documents Monday that releasing them would result in a publicity onslaught and make picking a jury for the second trial more difficult. Media organizations including The Associated Press urged a judge to release them, saying the public has an interest in confirming that the outcome of the first trial was the result of an impartial process.

Pennsylvania law allows the public release of jurors names, but judges have discretion to keep them a secret under certain conditions.

Judge Steven ONeill, who presided over the Cosby trial, will hold a hearing Tuesday on the release of the names.

He advised jurors when the trial ended Saturday that they didnt need to discuss the case.

It can never be clearer that if you speak up, you could be chilling the justice system in the future if jurors are needed in this case, ONeill told them.

Cosby, the actor and comedian once known as Americas Dad, was charged with three felony counts of aggravated indecent assault stemming from Andrea Constands allegations that he drugged and violated her at his suburban Philadelphia home. He said the encounter was consensual.

It is not yet clear why jurors could not reach a verdict, or how close they came.

We get 12 people to agree on sex assault cases all the time, but this is not any case. Its an old case, its a controversial case, its a case that involves questions of consent, said Loyola Law School professor Laurie Levenson.

In a retrial, District Attorney Kevin Steele could ask the judge to allow testimony from more of Cosbys 60 accusers, or to disclose to jurors that Constand is gay. That never came up in her seven hours of testimony. The defence had hoped, if it did, to introduce evidence she had previously dated a man.

The key to retrying a case is to do it differently the second time because the defence expects you to do it the same way, said Constands lawyer, Dolores Troiani.

Cosby remains free on $1-million bail in the criminal case. ONeill could schedule the retrial within weeks.

The entertainer is also battling sexual battery or defamation cases still pending by 10 women in California and Massachusetts. Several of them attended the criminal trial with their lawyers.

The Associated Press does not typically identify people who say they are victims of sexual assault unless they grant permission, which Constand has done.

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BELGRADESerbias ruling conservatives said Monday if prime minister-designate Ana Brnabic doesnt get enough votes to be confirmed by parliament as the first openly gay person to head the countrys government, an early general election will be held.

Brnabic, nominated last week by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, could also become the conservative nations first female prime minister if shes selected. But some of Vucics coalition partners said they will vote against her because of her sexual orientation.

Vucic on Monday met with 100 of his Serbian Progressive Party lawmakers who promised to vote for Brnabic in Serbias 250-seat parliament. She needs at least 26 more votes to be confirmed.

After the closed meeting, Vucic only said everything will fine.

The vote was originally scheduled for later this week, but it has been now moved to next week because of the uncertainty.

Serbian Progressive Party official Marija Obradovic said that if Brnabic doesnt get the additional support by Thursday, an early vote will be called. That would be the third snap election in Serbia in five years.

It was important for us that everyone declares individually if (he or she) is for or against Brnabics nomination, Obradovic said.

There were different stands, she said, adding that despite their different opinions on Brnabics nomination, everyone agreed to vote for the nomination once it happens in parliament.

U.S.-educated Brnabic, 41, was a minister in Vucics government before he became president in April. Although not a member of his party, she is considered to be loyal to the autocratic leader.

Brnabics nomination was considered part of Vucics tactics to please the West amid his recent apparent shift toward Russia despite officially claiming European Union membership is Serbias strategic goal.

Serbias LGBT population has often faced discrimination, harassment and intimidation.

If approved, Brnabic will join a handful of other openly gay leaders in Europe. Earlier this month, Ireland selected Leo Varadkar to head their governing party who will lead the government.

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Thousands of years before Hello Kitty and Grumpy Cat, some wild little felines and early farmers made a tacit deal: One side would act a bit docile and kill grain-raiding vermin, and the other would tolerate the cats presence and let them eat scraps.

That much has long been assumed about cat domestication. But a new study of DNA from the bones and teeth of more than 200 ancient cats reveals far more about when and how wild cats  solitary, reclusive and very ill-tempered  began to pad their way from the edges of civilization into our homes and hearts. An international team of researchers found that cats dispersal happened in two waves, first from the Fertile Crescent and later from Egypt.

And their migration likely included voyages on Viking ships.

Whether house cats are truly domesticated is a subject of debate among scientists. Their genes arent very different from those of wild cats, nor are their bodies or features  they dont, for example, have the floppy ears and curly tails common to many domesticated animals. Whats more, though some of them are perfectly happy to curl up on human laps, cats, unlike their canine housemates, are quite capable of living outdoors and feeding themselves.

But at some point, wild felines did come indoors and launched, as the authors call it, the cats worldwide conquest.

As has been established by previous research, modern-day cats all trace their roots to one subspecies of wild cat, Felis silvestris lybica, that is native to northern Africa and southwest Asia and has proved to be more easily tamed than the four other subspecies.

To get the real picture, we have to go back to the ancient remains and analyze those, author Eva-Maria Geigl, an evolutionary geneticist at the Institut Jacques Monod in Paris, said in an interview. We tried to get a picture of how the distribution of wild cats occurred before taming occurred.

The team analyzed mitochondrial DNA, which is passed through the mother and better preserved, from remains spanning 9,000 years and locations across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. One lineage was rooted in the Fertile Crescent, where humans who were still figuring out agriculture more than 10,000 years ago probably realized that some local wild cats were friendly and useful, Geigl said.

Both sides profited from each other, she said. Humans were happy there were less rodents, and the cats had food.

Not long after the early farmers migrated into Europe about 7,000 years ago, cats began showing up in sites further west, too, suggesting they followed  and were allowed to.

But the study found that it was an Egyptian lineage of cats that really took over parts of Africa and Europe several thousand years later, starting as early as 1700 B.C. but really accelerating from the 5th to 13th centuries. Cat remains carrying this lineage were found at a Viking trading port on the Baltic Sea in Northern Germany, lending credence to the idea that cats were providing pest control-services on ships by the Middle Ages.

When we look at the pattern that we have, this tells us the story of human mobility  war paths, trading paths, and mostly seafaring paths, Geigl said. This must have been a cat that was at the time very attractive to people, because it spread very efficiently.

The researchers, whose paper was published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, also decided to take a closer look at one obvious way todays Internet stars differ from their wild cousins: their coats. While wild cats have striped, mackerel, tabby patterns, only domestic tabbies have blotchy fur coats. That pattern was already known to be caused by one gene mutation, so Geigl and her colleagues looked for it in the ancient feline DNA.

It first showed up in the Middle Ages, suggesting that domestication as we know it  with some sort of selective breeding  did not start until then. This fairly late date provides yet more evidence that the taming of the cat was by no means a quick process.

True selective breeding of cats, the kind that has led to Scottish folds and Bengals, did not begin until the 19th century. Geigl said shed like to do additional work to determine how black cats, which Egyptian iconography depicted, came about. But her interest is less about kitties  Its a bit of a mystery for me why people are so fond of cats, she said  and more about the evolutionary stories domestication can tell.

Evolution occurs faster when you select certain traits, she said. In analyzing this kind of selection process, you have a model of how evolution works.

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MOSCOWWarplanes from the U.S.-led coalition operating over Syrian government-controlled areas west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as potential targets, Russias Defence Ministry said Monday, a day after the U.S. military shot down a Syrian air force jet.

Moscow condemned the downing of the Syrian jet after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces that are fighting Daesh, also known as ISIS or ISIL, in Syrias increasingly complicated civil war.

The downing of the warplane  the first time in the conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet  came as Iran fired several ballistic missiles at Daesh positions in eastern Syria in retaliation for two attacks by the extremists in Tehran earlier this month that killed 17 people.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by Daesh before Syrian government forces captured most of them in recent months. The Russians appear to want to avoid further U.S. targeting of Syrian warplanes or ground troops that have come under U.S. attack in eastern Syria recently.

Moscow also called on the U.S. military to provide a full accounting of why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22.

Read more:

Iraqi forces reclaim Daesh-held border crossing to Syria

Russia says it may have killed Daesh leader

Syrian boy who became image of civil war reappears

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, has been providing an air cover to the governments offensive since 2015.

But in April, Russia briefly suspended a hotline intended to prevent mid-air incidents with the U.S. over Syria after the American military fired 59 missiles at a Syrian airbase following a chemical weapons attack that Washington blamed on the Assad government.

The U.S. military confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets shot down a Syrian Su-22 that had dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces SDF. Those forces, which are aligned with the U.S. in the campaign against Daesh, warned Syrian government troops to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

There are also fears Canadian military aircraft operating over Syria could be caught in the middle of the new and potentially explosive dispute between the U.S. and Russia.

Moscow is warning that it will target allied aircraft operating west of the

The Canadian military has been flying surveillance aircraft and a refuelling plane over Syria for the past several months as part of its contribution to the U.S.-led anti-Daesh coalition.

National Defence says it is monitoring the situation, but otherwise won't comment on where the planes have been flying in Syria and whether they are in any danger.

The Trudeau government is reviewing possible changes to Canada's mission against Daesh, whose current mandate is set to expire at the end of the month.

In comments to Russian news agencies, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov compared the downing to helping the terrorists that the U.S. is fighting against.

What is this, if not an act of aggression? he asked.

Viktor Ozerov, chairman of the defence and security committee at the upper chamber of Russian parliament, described the Defence Ministrys statement as a warning.

Im sure that because of this neither the U.S. nor anyone else will take any actions to threaten our aircraft, he told the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency. Thats why theres no threat of direct confrontation between Russia and American aircraft.

Ozerov insisted that Russia will be tracking the coalitions jets, not shooting them down, but he added that a threat for those jets may appear only if they take action that pose a threat to Russian aircraft.

Meanwhile, the U.S.-backed opposition fighters said Assads forces have been attacking them in the northern province of Raqqa and warned that if such attacks continue, the fighters will take action.

Clashes between Syrian troops and the SDF would escalate tensions and open a new front line in the many complex battlefields of the civil war, now in its seventh year. Clashes between the Kurdish-led SDF and Syrian forces have been rare and some rebel groups have even accused them of co-ordinating on the battlefield.

Both sides are battling Daesh, with SDF fighters focusing on their march into the northern city of Raqqa, which the extremist group has declared to be its capital.

Government forces have also been attacking Daesh in northern, central and southern Syria, seizing 25,000 square kilometres and reaching the Iraqi border for the first time in years.

SDF spokesman Talal Sillo said the government wants to thwart the SDF offensive to capture Raqqa. He said government forces began attacking SDF on Saturday, using warplanes, artillery and tanks in areas that SDF had liberated from IS.

Sillo also warned that if the regime continues in its offensive against our positions in Raqqa province, this will force us to retaliate with force.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks Syrias war, said government forces expanded their presence in Raqqa province by capturing from Daesh the town of Rasafa.

Irans launch of its ballistic missiles against Daesh hit Syrias eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night and was its first such strike in the conflict. Previously, it has been providing crucial support to Assads forces.

Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard said it launched six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan. Video on Iranian state TV showed the weapons on truck missile launchers in the daylight before the nighttime volley.

The missiles flew over Iraq before striking what the Guard called a Daesh command centre and suicide car bomb operation in Deir el-Zour, over 600 kilometres away. The extremists have been trying to fortify their positions in the Syrian city in the face of a coalition onslaught on Raqqa.

Syrian opposition activist Omar Abu Laila said two Iranian missiles fell in and near the eastern town of Mayadeen, a Daesh stronghold. There were casualties, said Abu Laila, who is originally from Deir el-Zour and currently lives in Germany, where he runs a website about the province.

Daesh did not immediately acknowledge the attack. Iraqi lawmaker Abdul-Bari Zebari said his country agreed to the missile overflight after co-ordination with Iran, Russia and Syria.

With files from The Canadian Press

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NODEIRINHO, Portugal  Constantino Gracieta and his wife were among the lucky ones. At first, they got in their car and tried to escape the advancing flames that swept across a vast, dry forest in central Portugal over the weekend.

But finding the road that cuts through their hamlet, Mosteiro, engulfed by fire, they turned back and began to hose down their house instead.

People fought to save their houses, Gracieta said. I knew that, with the road completely cut and the whole forest on fire, firefighters were never going to get here quick enough to help us.

At least 64 people were not as fortunate, perishing in the wildfire, many of them while in their cars trying to flee. With 135 people injured, the authorities warned that the death toll could still rise from the fire, which started Saturday, apparently ignited by lightning strikes.

Driving from Porto in the north on Monday, I entered a ravaged landscape of blackened ground that exhaled smoke and seemed to be struggling for breath. Every few miles, I passed burnt-out carcasses of cars on the side of the road. In what remained of a door frame, fresh pink flowers were laid in tribute to one cars victims.

As I approached signposts on secondary roads, they offered their own testament to the extent of the disaster: Many had been melted by the heat.

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Raging forest fires kill at least 62 in Portugal

Already, the fatalities have made the wildfire the worst in half a century in a small country where deadly blazes have become increasingly severe and routine, as long-standing land management problems collide with changes in climate that produce hotter, drier summers.

On Monday, crews were still struggling to tame the deadly blaze in central Portugal, even as more than 2,000 firefighters battled separate fires around the country amid strong winds and scorching temperatures.

Given those circumstances and the countrys history, some were already beginning to question why Portugal had not done more sooner to improve its land practices and fire-warning systems, and whether the authorities did enough to inform people trying to escape the blaze.

I understand that its very hard to control such a fire, but I dont understand why its so hard to co-ordinate the movement of people, said Aires Henriques, who ended up driving for several hours along back roads to circumvent the fire area.

He and his wife, Maria Lourdes, were driving home on Saturday afternoon to their village of Troviscais from Porto when a friend called to warn them about the blaze. The police stopped them on IC8, the road that crosses this area, and told them to take another route, without specifying which one.

While he knows the area well, he said, Weve got tourists and others who probably had no idea where they were going.

For now, an atmosphere of national tragedy and mourning stifled much of the impulse for finger-pointing. Portugals political parties for the most part heeded a call by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to first deal with the emergency before discussing its circumstances.

Now is the time for the authorities to act, not the time for politicians, Pedro Passos Coelho, leader of the main centre-right opposition party, said over the weekend.

Once the flames have been extinguished, however, there will no doubt be an investigation into why so many victims apparently died after finding themselves cut off, encircled by fire and stranded along roads they took while trying to flee by car.

Around the Pedrogao Grande area, several residents said they were largely left to their own devices in terms of working out whether to drive off  and where to.

As roads got cut off, firefighters, too, struggled to reach isolated hamlets. In Mosteiro, for instance, residents said firefighters  who had travelled from the city of Porto de Mos, about an hours drive away  arrived long after the fire had already crossed the hamlet.

Around Pedrogao Grande, firefighters were trying to put out the last pockets of fire Monday, with the support of firefighting planes, amid fears that the dry weather conditions could easily rekindle the flames.

Maintenance workers were removing fallen road signs, as well as electricity and phone lines dangling across secondary roads. Volunteers and charity workers were criss-crossing the region in minivans, delivering water and food to the residents who survived the weekend inferno.

At a gas station, a group of firefighters sat next to their vehicles, visibly exhausted. This is just a very, very, very big tragedy, one of them said.

While climate change may help explain the severity and speed of the weekend blaze, environmentalists also said it reflected long-standing forest management issues.

A significant problem, some environmentalists said, has been the proliferation of the planting of eucalyptus trees for profit, to be farmed for paper pulp. Eucalyptus offers a far quicker return on investment after its plantation than pine and many other kinds of wood. But it also contains flammable oil.

The surface area covered by eucalyptus trees has more than doubled in Portugal since the 1980s. Eucalyptus is now the most grown tree in the country, covering about 26 per cent of forested land, ahead of cork oak, whose exports have long formed a pillar of Portugals economy. Some environmentalists said the fire showed the need for a cap.

Further fire dangers, they said, have been caused by socioeconomic changes in Portugal, with an aging and dwindling farming population migrating to cities and coastal areas, leaving much land dangerously untended.

In the aftermath of other recent fire disasters, Portugals Parliament started to debate last year an overhaul of its forestry laws.

Among proposed changes, the Socialist government wants to clearly identify the owners of forest land, in a country where about 92 per cent of forests are in private hands. The change would also set up a system of fines for owners deemed to be neglecting their trees.

We have a country where we often dont know which land belongs to whom, said Miguel Bugalho, a university researcher on forest ecology and a forest and biodiversity adviser to the World Wildlife Fund in Portugal.

In some regions of Portugal, he added, we face a situation of complete abandonment of the forest.

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Some Trump supporters are calling for yet another boycott of Starbucks after one woman said she was bullied at a Charlotte, N.C., store for wearing a Trump T-shirt.

Kayla Hart said that when she walked into a store there last week, the baristas laughed at her. When she received her iced tea, instead of bearing her name, it was labelled Build a Wall.

I just found it really sad that I cant wear a T-shirt with our president without being made fun of, Hart said to her local Fox station, which first reported the incident.

This isnt the first time a Starbucks location has been threatened with boycotts from the right. Over the past few years, the chain has become a political lightning rod and a battleground for the culture wars, stirring religion and our constitutional rights into that venti latte.

Previous Starbucks boycotts were related to the companys Christmas cups, which religious activists criticized for being secular, or taking the Christ out of Christmas.

Other viral flare-ups have involved a Miami man who claimed Starbucks refused to serve him because he was a Trump supporter (a witness said the man got angry that his coffee order took too long) and a customer who started a campaign to get people to give their names as Trump so baristas would have to call out Soy macchiato for Trump!

Even President Donald Trump, while on the campaign trail, criticized Starbucks for its Christmas cups. Thats the end of that lease, he said at a rally, referring to the Starbucks in Trump Tower. The Starbucks in Trump Tower remains open.

Starbucks has become so politically volatile in part because its founder, Howard Schultz, is outspoken about progressive causes. But its also because coffee is a ritual for many Americans, so when the experience does not align with their personal beliefs, the discrepancy feels more personal.

Many of us go to the same coffee shop every day, so when theres a violation, its not so easily overlooked, Derek Rucker, a marketing professor at Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School of Management, told The Post in November. Potentially, customers are more vested in their experience there.

Hart contacted customer service, and the company issued a statement to Fox 46 Charlotte. This experience is not consistent with our standards or the welcoming and respectful experience we aim to provide every customer who visit our stores, the company said.

But that didnt stop the calls for a boycott  although theyre less organized than previous Starbucks boycotts. Sarah Palins website was among the conservative media that brought attention to the incident. A typical tweet looked like this one:

The Starbucks baristas who made fun of Trump supporter (customer) should be fired. Boycott Starbucks. Hit them where it hurts. Like Target!

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A Commons committee charged with looking into Canadas troubled media has suggested an implicit bargain.

On one hand, through a series of tax changes and grants, the government would offer financial support to traditional and new media companies.

On the other, the government would crack down hard on media mergers that far too often leave local communities badly served.

Its not a bad saw-off. Canadas financially troubled media firms would be wise to support it.

Thursdays majority report from the Liberal-dominated Commons heritage committee is not government policy. Indeed, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already ruled out one of its recommendations  a 5 per cent levy on broadband Internet services designed to catch streaming companies such as Netflix, which currently are able to avoid paying their full share of Canadian taxes.

Trudeau calculates, correctly, that a so-called Netflix tax would be a political loser, particularly among the younger voters he has so carefully wooed.

But most of the other measures recommended by the report, such as a five-year tax credit to help traditional print media go digital, are sufficiently obscure that they may not create much voter backlash.

The federal government already offers a host of tax breaks to selected industries. Canadians seem fine with the idea.

The committee heard from a host of witnesses who detailed the troubles faced by Canadas once-lucrative media industry.

In essence, they boil down to this: Good journalism costs money; but the rise of the Internet has starved traditional media of the revenues they need.

Newspapers have been particularly hard hit. Readers have come to expect they can get newspaper content online for free. Advertisers, the other traditional source of newspaper revenue, find it more profitable to deal directly with online giants, such as Facebook and Google.

The response of some newspaper chains has been to slash costs and centralize production through mergers.

That in turn has led to skimpier products that attract even fewer readers.

The committee report singles out what it calls the devastating impact of the 2014 Postmedia/Sun Media merger.

That union of the countrys two biggest chains led to mass layoffs. The net result, the report says, is that the diversity of voices and opinions has been greatly diminished and the principle of democracy challenged.

It didnt mention that the merger also failed to solve Postmedias fundamental financial problems.

The report recommends that Canadas competition laws be altered to demand a so-called diversity of voices test whenever media companies want to merge.

Traditionally, Canadian governments have paid considerable attention to the needs of media companies, offering them over the decades an array of goodies, ranging from printing contracts to postal subsidies.

At one point, Ottawa even subsidized Canadian Press, the national wire service.

In part, this was because politicians found the media useful  either because they were explicitly partisan or because they acted a conduit to the public.

But as Donald Trump has shown, politicians today can speak directly to the public through mechanisms such as Twitter. Their messages can be literally unmediated.

Will Trudeau want to spend any political capital to help out mainstream media he may no longer need? Will Finance Minister Bill Morneau be willing to add more tax breaks at a time when he is trying to reduce the number that already exist?

And even if the government does implement most of the committees recommendations, will this be enough?

At one level, the economics of media are simple. People who want to know whats going on in the world pay other people, commonly called journalists, to tell them.

The buyers may pay directly by, for instance, purchasing online subscriptions. They may pay indirectly by buying goods advertised in the medium they are using. Or, as in the case of CBC, they may pay through taxes.

But if newsgathering is to work, the news-gatherer has to be able to earn a living. Thats also what this report says.

Thomas Walkom appears Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

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It was a very interesting scene in Tamil Nadu Assembly today when Opposition leader MK Stalin wanted a debate on alleged horse trading but Speaker Dhanapal quoted from the speeches of DMK leaders from the past to reject his demand.

By Pramod Madhav: Using an unusual tactic, Tamil Nadu Speaker Dhanapal today rejected DMK leader MK Stalin's demand for a debate on the issue of horse trading in the Assembly. Speaker Dhanapal quoted speeches by DMK leaders in the past to deny permission for discussion on alleged horse trading.

Dhanapal stated that as DMK has already approached the Madras High Court on the matter. The case is pending before the high court.

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"DMK leader MK Stalin has already filed a case in Madras High Court and that is why I did not allow a debate on it. On the next day, he raised the issue stating that the matters has come up in papers and as the case has not been listed yet, a debate could be held on it. Since I didn't agree, DMK staged a walkout" Dhanapal explained.

WHAT SPEAKER DHANAPAL SAID

Speaker Dhanapal also criticised that Stalin for bringing a CD on the third day and attempting to give it to him inside the Assembly.

According to established rules, evidence on any matter of discussion should be handed over to the Speaker in his chamber and should get appropriate permission for the same, Dhanapal said.

"I thought that they have brought in some evidence on the issue and was waiting in my Chamber when, Pichandi MLA visited me and gave a CD on behalf of Stalin. When I watched, I could find that it was a copy of a news program from a channel. So, it was all based on news from print and television media and following the precedents of many Speakers before me, I pronounced a verdict that I will not allow discussion based on news from the media", he stated.

DHANAPAL QUOTES FROM DMK'S PAST

Dhanapal also brought in referrals from the past assemblies, especially during DMK regime and said that on March 20, 1998 the then Chief Minister Karunanidhi had objected for any discussion over news from the media.

Quoting DMK leader K Anbazagan's speech in the Assembly on November 10, 2010, Dhanapal said that he would give the reasons for him objecting to such debates.

"K Anbazagan spoke on the Assembly floor that if someone gets a news, it should be well authenticated before bringing it to discussion inside the Assembly," said Dhanapal adding unverified news items can be taken up in the Assembly.

"I want the members to think about what would happen if I allow members to discuss about news from the media inside the Assembly. The same media which carried news of horse trading has also published news of the MLAs allegedly caught up in the video denying those allegations. Think about that too", he said.

The Speaker's final verdict was that as there were no rules to permit any discussion on a matter without evidence and as the evidence provided by Stalin was a copy of a show from a news channel, he would not allow discussion on the matter in the Assembly.

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ALSO READ |

DMK alleges horse trading during trust vote, asks Governor to dismiss AIADMK government

ALSO WATCH | Stalin gives Tamil Nadu Governor Rao CD, says it has evidence of foul play in February trust vote

--- ENDS ---
Activist investor Nelson Peltz got what he wanted, at least for now, at General Electric Co. (GE) - Get Free Report

The operations-oriented "liquid private equity" focused manager behind Trian Fund Management had been privately agitating for a change at the industrial conglomerate for months until last Monday, when GE CEO Jeff Immelt capitulated and announced his resignation.

Following that move, and Immelt's successor's plans for a full portfolio review, Peltz can now focus his attention on another major investment for the firm: Procter & Gamble (PG) - Get Free Report .

The activist fund earlier this year disclosed that it had a $3.5 billion position in the American multi-national and it even increased its position six-fold between December and February. It is likely that over the past few months Peltz has been talking to Procter & Gamble management and possibly even some of its board members. As CNBC reported Friday, citing sources, Trian has filed a notice for a board seat at Procter & Gamble. Trian did not return a request by TheStreet for comment, but the deadline to nominate directors for a 2017 annual meeting expected in October, was June 13.

Should Peltz escalate his effort, a director battle at Procter & Gamble would be a massive undertaking because of the company's $231 billion market capitalization. It would be the largest director-election proxy fight in the U.S., far outstripping Peltz's 2015 battle at DuPont Co. (DD).

Nevertheless, if any activist would try such a move, it would be Trian. Watch for Peltz to gain a director position or two down the road. The most likely scenario is for Peltz to gain a seat as part of a settlement.

Also look for the consumer packaged goods company to announce plans for spin-offs, sales or even a swap out of business units. If major M&A doesn't come soon, a Trian director-battle or white paper chock full of activist demands could be next.

And Trian likely will demand significant M&A activity. Spinoffs and other major deals often follow when the activist investor acquires a large stake. Trian and other activist fund managers often push to have large companies break themselves up with the goal of extracting value by focusing the market on various parts of a business that might be hiding inside confusing conglomerate structures.

Procter & Gamble is a great example of a large, confusing conglomerate company that has hidden value. The two Procter & Gamble units most likely to be spun off or sold are its Beauty division and its so-called Over-the-Counter business. That's because neither are the best fit with P&G's core-competencies, according to April Scee, consumer packaged goods analyst at RenMac in New York.

The Beauty business includes the premium SK-II brand and mass-market brands such as Olay, Pantene, and Head & Shoulders. Procter's biggest OTC brands include Metamucil, Pepto-Bismol, Vicks, Prilosec, Clearblue, and Align.

The OTC business, if it were to be put on the auction block, would generate interest from multiple suitors, said Scee. She added that Procter might not be the best owner for the brands. And the Beauty operation also may not fit with the rest of the company, partly because its product innovation cycles are faster than the rest of Procter & Gamble's offerings.

Alternatively, Scee argued that Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) - Get Free Report might be interested in swapping its Oral Care and Feminine Care business for P&G's OTC business. Such an exchange could be accomplished with fewer tax consequences than a sale and would further strengthen core businesses for each, she added.

"An activist such as Trian could help push for such an outcome," she said.

Scee said she believes a J&J swap with Procter is more likely than J&J acquiring Colgate-Palmolive Co. (CL) - Get Free Report , a scenario some investors have contemplated.

And any spin-off would only be the latest M&A move in an industry that has already experienced some similar deals in recent years. Kimberly-Clark Corp. (KMB) - Get Free Report spun Halyard Health Inc. undefined in November 2014, and Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc spun Invidior PLC in December 2014. Also, Energizer Holdings Inc. (ENR) - Get Free Report was spun from its Edgewell Personal Care Co. (EPC) - Get Free Report business in July 2015. Procter & Gamble also had planned to spin its Duracell battery business before Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B) - Get Free Report bought it last year.

Activists like Trian also push targeted companies to hike their shareholder distributions and cut costs. It's possible that Trian could ask Procter to commit to hiking its stock buybacks rather than acquire any new businesses. Also, Scee suggested that Trian could push for more cost cutting, beyond a $10 billion cost cut plan P&G currently is implementing.

In any event, expect some M&A activity to come - whether or not Peltz gets a board seat or issues a white paper. (His 2015 white paper at GE was 81 pages long)

"When Nelson Peltz shows up in your list of investors, you can expect that businesses get spun off," said Brian Langenberg, industrial strategist at Langenberg & Co.

Procter & Gamble's shares rose 0.2% to $89.51 on Monday morning.

General Electricis aholding in Jim Cramer'sAction Alerts PLUS Charitable Trust Portfolio.Want to be alerted before Cramer buys or sells GE? Learn more now.

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Jim Cramer: Oil Stocks Are Not Fossils

Is oil finished? Is crude done as an investible concept? Is crude now entering a fable death cross where it will fade away to the thirties from its $44 perch? Are we so into alternative energy that crude's days are gone and oil stocks will be on the endangered species list?

I did an Action Alerts Plus club call that addressed these very issues after spending an hour with my go-to energy call, Rusty Braziel of RBN Energy, who famously came on Mad Money a year and a half ago and said that those who thought oil was going back to the hundreds or even to the sixties or seventies were just going to be plain wrong.

When I consider that most oil guests did cling to that view, especially every time oil breached $50 on the way up, it was a bold call.

Now with oil breaking $44 it's a legitimate question to ask if crude's kaput and going down for the count. Neither Rusty nor I believe that. In fact we've been waiting for the speculators to be washed out and it looks like that is just what's happening.

Before I go into why I think that we are approaching my $43 buy point let me go over what's happening now in oil. First, you know how stocks sometimes trade down sharply in unison on some bit of information? Oil now does that, too. The futures now trade algorithmically, meaning that when the oil inventories that came out at 10:30 today showed a big build, the machines fired off sell orders that brought oil down almost two bucks in a nanosecond.

That kind of trading freaks people out and begets more selling in the oil complex, which happens to trade together, largely bound by oil ETFs.

Second, while it is true that the OPEC cuts have not done enough to stem the glut--in fact U.S. production, barrel for barrel, is making up for whatever's been taken out--the demand for oil is not declining as the bears would have you believe. In fact, while alternative energy sources are coming on, for example 27% of the power in Texas is now produced by wind, oil use is not declining in any noticeable way.

Third, the depletion of current wells is going on apace, which means that many of the nation states and large oil companies that have withheld drilling for big projects may have not been replacing production.

Against that, though, is that every time oil approaches $50 you do get our oil companies selling futures that do put a lid on it. Rusty points out that futures, out five years, show $50-a-barrel oil. I don't want to disagree with the futures market but I think if there isn't more drilling away from the U.S. soon, you will see the glut disappear by next year.

Which brings me to the stocks. If you look at a lot of the big ones and the oil service companies, they now reflect all of the fears I heard when we were going to the twenties. I am not saying these are the greatest value stories of all time. I am saying that the pessimism is too thick and I think that picking at the stocks as we get to $43 will make you money even as the long-term doubt is quietly surfacing as a real issue to watch, not for this decade, but certainly beyond.

Action Alerts PLUS, which Jim Cramer manages as a charitable trust, has no positions in the stocks mentioned.

Originally published June 14 at 2:23 p.m. EST

Jim Cramer: These Companies Find Strength in a Weak Dollar



Is the world a better place?

When I see industrials moving up the way they are and have been for days, I think to myself, forget President Trump, forget U.S. infrastructure, we are going to see some pretty good growth overseas and the buyers are trying to get ahead of the darned good quarterly results that will be announced less than a month from now.

Take 3M (MMM) - Get Free Report , a quintessential industrial. 3M's stock has quietly moved 13 points since it last reported, including a remarkable jaunt right through $200. This is not an idle move. This company's stock tends to track its business very closely, and all I can say is I bet it will have a good quarter because its end markets are all getting stronger. Remember that only 40% of 3M's business is in the U.S., and that means its industrial and electronics and graphics businesses will not be kept down by sluggish U.S. growth.

More important, when you look at the broad portfolio and countries where 3M's products are sold, you are going to see not only organic growth but also currency-aided growth as the U.S. dollar isn't as strong as it was last year.

Can you imagine seeing a combination of "better than expected earnings" and "raised forecast" coupled with a continued stock buyback? That's pretty much what you should expect when you see 3M's report. And the market won't care that the currency has added a tailwind. It will lap it up as if it's real earnings for certain.

3M's no anomaly. I think you might get the exact same kind of earnings news from Honeywell (HON) - Get Free Report and United Technologies (UTX) - Get Free Report , both with broad product portfolios and more than 40% weak-dollar exposure.

This is the theme that's got a lot of stocks going.

Where else should we be looking for some weak-dollar relief? How about the stock of Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) - Get Free Report , which has been phenomenally strong here. It's been buffeted by currency for ages.

So, for that matter, has IBM (IBM) - Get Free Report , which is trying like heck to put in a bottom with its new businesses outrunning the old ones. It's been savaged by Warren Buffett, but perhaps he soured on it right at the cusp of the turn?

It's clear that these stocks, with the exception of IBM, have already put on some serious points.

But here's a surprising non-industrial that I think might be worth considering: Procter & Gamble (PG) - Get Free Report . Hear me out on this. I know Procter doesn't have that economic sensitivity that I so desire from so many of the big industrials.

However, it also hasn't moved that much, off four points from its high and yielding more than 3% in a yield-hungry environment. I mention P&G for two reasons. One is that almost no company has spent as much time as P&G explaining why it has been hit so hard by currency and how it can't even hedge a lot of the places it's been dinged.

Second is now that General Electric's (GE) - Get Free Report Jeffrey Immelt has been replaced by John Flannery as CEO, I believe Nelson Peltz and his Trian Fund will turn their attention to Procter & Gamble. Like with GE, I expect a Trian white paper soon detailing how P&G could take costs out. I also expect the company's stock will jump when this process begins, as was the case with GE, which moved from the mid-$20s to $30 when Peltz got on board. (General Electric is part of TheStreet's Action Alerts PLUS portfolio.)

Time to get involved yourself with a great company where you can win in so many ways, but especially with Peltz in there fighting for you.

Action Alerts PLUS, which Jim Cramer co-manages as a charitable trust, is long GE.

Originally published June 13 at 1:18 p.m. EST

Jim Cramer shares his views every day on RealMoney. Click here for a real-time look at his insights and musings.
Helmut Kohl, Germany's longest-serving German leader since Otto von Bismarck in the nineteenth century, left a legacy of three great monetary transformations, alongside his political accomplishments, with his death last week at the age of 87.

Kohl headed the West German government for eight years between 1982 and 1990, then was Chancellor of united Germany between 1990 and 1998.

Most importantly, Kohl presided over a dramatic period of peaceful change in which Communist-run East Germany - a principal victim of the lack of a post-second world war peace agreement and the consequent division of Germany - was merged expensively but bloodlessly with its powerful, unrequited neighbour, the Federal Republic, in 1990.

The first monetary adventure, which significantly shaped his life as an 18-year-old, was the 1948 establishment of the Deustche mark, replacing the war-shattered Reichsmark. The changeover was seen by many (including Kohl) as the mainspring of the post-war German 'miracle' which returned the country both economically and politically to the first echelon of internationally significant nations.

The second transformation was the introduction of the Deustche mark into East Germany in July 1990. Kohl decided this - without consultation with the Bundesbank, the hitherto all-powerful German central bank - in February 1990 in the helter-skelter aftermath of the fall of the Berlin wall the previous November.

This was the essential prelude to formal reunification in October 1990. The conversion of bankrupt East German marks for the prized western currency at an over-generous (for the East Germans) exchange rate greatly hampered the initial competitiveness of the East German economy. But it helped fulfil one principal condition of unification: that it would take place without a complete exodus of cash-starved East Germans to the West.

The third was the replacement of the Deustche mark by the euro in January 1999 as the European single currency, marking and, it was hoped, uniting Europe in a new era of integration. Implementation came after Kohl was defeated in the autumn 1998 elections, by Gerhard Schroder, a relative eurosceptic.

The euro's birth followed a decade of tortuous preparations in which Kohl and French President Francois Mitterrand were the two crucial political figures. The Deustche mark became both a central instrument of German monetary unification and a sacrificial legacy bequeathed by the Germans to the rest of Europe. This was a vital signal that united Germany, rather than flexing its muscles, would be just as European-minded as the old western-orientated Federal Republic.

For all his pivotal influence on monetary affairs, Kohl had little formal interest in economics. He understandably did not take kindly to stories of his shortcomings in economic understanding relayed by Karl Otto Pohl, Bundesbank president during the 1980s, with whom Kohl had an increasingly fractious relationship.

Even when he was (especially during the second half of his long reign) strutting the world stage, Kohl remained a quintessential representative of the German provinces, a man of steadfast beliefs and homespun truths, a master in deploying raw and sometimes rough psychology in dealing with friend and foe alike.

Over the years as a Financial Times journalist, I had many dealings with him and several long interviews. I became aware of the forcefulness of his opinions but also of the reliability of his promises.

At a midnight press conference in December 1991 in the Dutch town of Maastricht, during the summit that sealed the path to monetary union, Kohl harangued the crowd on the attractiveness of the single currency - including for the UK. 'The [British] government always does what the City wants ... the City will ensure that Britain joins monetary union.'

I disagreed, and bet the Chancellor six bottles of wine that, by the first possible date (1997), Britain would not be a member. Kohl (on a reminder from me) kept to his word. At the Chancellor's office in Bonn in 1997, he personally handed over six bottles of Meerspinne Riesling and Biengarten Weiburgunder from his local wine-growing region - and we drank a glass together.

After a combative two-hour interview in February 1989 in which Kohl revealed important parts of his negotiating tactics over nuclear missile modernisation and over German unification, I wrote in the FT, 'He is a man of massive certainty. Faustian wavering appears unknown.'

'His mind wanders ceaselessly in search of a favourite anecdote or well-honed political slogan. Mr Kohl appears to relish a verbal tussle and politely prefaces a diatribe with the word "Excuse me". An interviewer needs strong lungs - and also needs to enjoy being told by Mr Kohl in homely Palatinate German that his views are "absurd", "rubbish" or "nonsense".'

In another long FT interview, in London in March 1990, Kohl told me that recovery in East Germany would follow the path of the successful 'social market economy' pioneered in West Germany after the 1948 currency reform.

The arrival of the Deutsche mark in the East would trigger 'a great investment boom' - led by consumption. 'The German have a tendency towards eating, drinking, cars and travel. The car is the status symbol. And when the East Germans have a lot of cars, then of course they will need a lot of repairing. And what does the wife say? "At last I want a decent bathroom." And this will be a unique chance for the plumbers and handymen.'

After a decade in which Kohl, incapacitated by old age and illness, has been absent from public life, he now finally leaves the arena. The chancellor of unity with a down-to-earth approach to monetary economics will be mourned by many more than the car-dealers, plumbers and handymen.

--David Marsh is Managing Director of OMFIF.

https://www.omfif.org/
More than 20 people were injured, some seriously, after a turbulence hit a China Eastern Airlines flight that was flying from Paris to China.

By Reuters: At least 26 people were injured when a China Eastern Airlines flight from Paris to the southwestern Chinese city of Kunming hit turbulence on Sunday, state news agency Xinhua reported.

Passengers onboard flight MU774 suffered injuries such as fractures when strong turbulence caused them to hit the overhead lockers and be hit by falling baggage, Xinhua said late on Sunday. At least four people were in a serious condition, it said.

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In a posting on its official Weibo account, China Eastern Airlines said that it had arranged relevant medical services for the flight's passengers, without confirming details of the injuries. It added that all passengers should fasten safety belts during flights for safety.

"We felt strong turbulence twice and minor turbulence three times. The process lasted about 10 minutes," Xinhua quoted a passenger surnamed Zhang, as saying.

This was the second incident the airline encountered within the week. On June 11, a China Eastern Airlines flight MU736 bound for Shanghai, had to make an emergency landing and return to Sydney after a hole emerged in one of the aircraft's engines.

ALSO READ | All those 'ding' sounds you hear in-flight, this is what they mean

ALSO READ | Passengers jump off Virgin Atlantic plane after bomb threat in Sydney

--- ENDS ---
By Press Trust of India: By Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu, Jun 19 (PTI) The US and Nepal today began a special operations training exercise during which forces of the two countries will train together to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster response emergencies in rural, mountainous areas.

After the training exercise "Balance Nail 17-3" held at the Chhauni Barracks in Kathmandu, the American mission handed over a regional crisis management centre built by its assistance to the Nepal army.

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The US funded Regional Crisis Management Centre (RCMC) is a USD 1.8 million facility, constructed in Kathmandu Valley, was developed through the cooperation of the US Embassys Office of Defense Cooperation ? the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and the World Food Program (WFP), according to statement issued by the US Embassy.

"This government of Nepal and US Embassy project directly supports Nepals ability to coordinate emergency response, facilitate communication with the National Emergency Operations Centre, and provide assistance to the affected populations during both manmade and natural disasters," the statement said.

The RCMC and warehouse are part of a larger network of infrastructure being constructed throughout the country to provide safe locations for relief efforts and food distribution, it said.

The project was completed with assistance from the U.S Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters and Himalayan Builders, it added.

The bilateral special operations training exercise "Balance Nail 17-3" was also held at the Chhauni Barracks here.

Bilateral training between the US Army Special Forces and the Nepal Mahabir Rangers has roots spanning over a decade.

During the "Balance Nail" exercises the rangers and US Special Operations forces train together to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster response emergencies in rural, mountainous areas.

This training will also build the Nepal Army?s ability to work side by side with government institutions, civilians, NGOs, and INGOs in the event of crises, whether at home in Nepal or when carrying out UN Peacekeeping Operations abroad. PTI SBP AJR ASK AJR

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Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. operates bookstores for college and university campuses, and K-12 institutions in the United States. It operates through three segments: Retail, Wholesale, and Digital Student Solutions. The company sells and rents new and used print textbooks, digital textbooks, and publisher hosted digital courseware through physical and virtual bookstores, as well as directly to students through Textbooks.com. It also offers First Day and First Day Complete access programs; BNC OER+, a turnkey solution for colleges and universities, that offers digital content, such as videos, activities, and auto-graded practice assessments; and general merchandise, including collegiate and athletic apparel, school spirit products, lifestyle products, technology products, supplies, graduation products, and convenience items. In addition, the company sources, sells, and distributes new and used textbooks; and sells hardware and a software suite of applications that provides inventory management and point-of-sale solutions to approximately 350 college bookstores. Further, it offers direct-to-student subscription-based writing services; and bartleby, a direct-to-student subscription-based offering that includes textbook solutions, expert questions and answers, and writing and tutoring services. The company operates 805 physical college and university bookstores; 622 virtual bookstores; 8 True Spirit e-commerce websites; pop-up retail locations; 73 customized cafes and 11 stand-alone convenience stores; and a media channel for brands targeting the college demographic. Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
Genpact Limited provides business process outsourcing and information technology (IT) services in India, rest of Asia, North and Latin America, and Europe. It operates through three segments: Banking, Capital Markets and Insurance; Consumer Goods, Retail, Life Sciences and Healthcare; and High Tech, Manufacturing and Services. The company offers CFO advisory services; and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) services, such as data management, carbon accounting, human rights assessment, sustainability diligence, and ESG reporting. It also provides finance and accounting services, which include accounts payable, such as document management, invoice processing, approval and resolution management, and travel and expense processing; invoice-to-cash services, including customer master data management, credit and contract management, fulfillment, billing, collections, and dispute management services; record to report services comprising accounting, treasury, tax, product cost accounting, and closing and reporting services; financial planning and analysis consisting of budgeting, forecasting, and business performance reporting; and enterprise risk and compliance services, including operational risks and controls. In addition, the company provides supply chain advisory services, and after-sales services; sourcing and procurement services comprising direct and indirect strategic sourcing, category management, spend analytics, procurement operation, and master data management; and sales and commercial services, including campaign, order, and dispute management, lead generation, pricing, and promotion optimization. Further, it offers IT services, which comprise end-user computing support, infrastructure management, application production support, and database management services; and transformation services that include digital solutions, consulting services, and analytics services and solutions. The company was founded in 1997 and is based in Hamilton, Bermuda.
A US warplane shot down a Syrian army jet on Sunday in the southern Raqqa countryside. The jet had dropped bombs near US-backed forces and Damascus saying the plane was downed while flying a mission against Islamic State militants.

By Reuters: A US warplane shot down a Syrian army jet on Sunday in the southern Raqqa countryside, with Washington saying the jet had dropped bombs near US-backed forces and Damascus saying the plane was downed while flying a mission against Islamic State militants.

A Syrian army statement released on Syrian state television said the plane crashed and the pilot was missing in the first such downing of a Syrian jet by the United States since the start of the conflict in 2011.

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The army statement said it took place on Sunday afternoon near a village called Rasafah.

The "flagrant attack was an attempt to undermine the efforts of the army as the only effective force capable with its allies ... in fighting terrorism across its territory," the Syrian army said.

"This comes at a time when the Syrian army and its allies were making clear advances in fighting the Daesh (Islamic State) terrorist group," it added.

FIGHTERS BELONG TO SYRIAN DEMOCRATIC FORCES (SDF)

The US Central Command later issued a statement saying the Syrian plane was downed "in collective self-defense of Coalition-partnered forces," identified as fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near Tabqah.

It said that "pro-Syrian regime forces" had earlier attacked an SDF-held town south of Tabqa and wounded a number of fighters, driving them from the town.

Coalition aircraft in a show of force stopped the initial advance. When a Syrian army SU-22 jet later dropped bombs near the US-backed forces, it was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet, the statement said.

Before it downed the plane, the coalition had "contacted its Russian counterparts by telephone via an established "de-confliction line" to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing."

The coalition does "not seek to fight the Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces" but would not "hesitate to defend itself or its "partnered forces from any threat," the statement said.

BOMBING CAMPAIGN OF US-LED COALITION

The US-led coalition has in recent weeks escalated its aerial bombing campaign in northern Syria and Raqqa province. US-backed forces have encircled the city of Raqqa and captured several districts from the militants.

The Syrian army, which has been taking territory from retreating Islamic State militants in the eastern Aleppo countryside, has moved into Raqqa province and seized back some oil fields and villages that had been under the militants' control for almost three years.

An SDF official said that the Syrian army had been engaged in skirmishes in recent days with US-backed forces near the town of Maskaneh close to the borders of Raqqa province, much of which is now held by US-backed groups fighting Islamic State.

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The Syrian army backed by Iranian-backed militias has also been in competition in southeastern Syria with US-backed Free Syrian Army (FSA) rebels who are also trying to recapture territory from Islamic State.

On several occasions in recent weeks, warplanes of the US-led coalition have also struck pro-government forces to prevent them advancing from a US-controlled garrison in southeastern Syria at a spot where the country's borders join with Iraq and Jordan.

Washington also described those strikes as self-defense.

ALSO READ:

Syria: US-led coalition airstrike mistakenly kills 18 allied fighters

Syria: Who is fighting who as United States rains missiles at Assad's airbase

US military strike on Syria draws mixed reactions from Trump administration

ALSO WATCH:

US launched over 50 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Syria airbase in retaliation to chemical gas attack

--- ENDS ---
Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. manufactures and sells cellulose specialty products in the United States, China, Canada, Japan, Europe, Latin America, other Asian countries, and internationally. The company operates through High Purity Cellulose, Paperboard, and High-Yield Pulp segments. Its products include cellulose specialties, which are natural polymers that are used as raw materials to manufacture a range of consumer-oriented products, such as liquid crystal displays, impact-resistant plastics, thickeners for food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cigarette filters, high-tenacity rayon yarn for tires and industrial hoses, food casings, paints, and lacquers. The company also offers commodity products, such as commodity viscose pulp used in woven applications, including rayon textiles for clothing and other fabrics, as well as in non-woven applications comprising baby wipes, cosmetic and personal wipes, industrial wipes, and mattress ticking; and absorbent materials consisting of fluff fibers that are used as an absorbent medium in disposable baby diapers, feminine hygiene products, incontinence pads, convalescent bed pads, industrial towels and wipes, and non-woven fabrics. In addition, it provides paperboards for packaging, printing documents, brochures, promotional materials, paperback books or catalog covers, file folders, tags, and tickets; and high-yield pulps to produce paperboard and packaging products, printing and writing papers, and various other paper products. The company was founded in 1926 and is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
Did the Wow! signal come from outer space? From aliens? An astronomer's research paper says NO.

Paper print of the Wow! Signal as detected by the Big Ear Radio Observatory in 1977. Photo courtesy: @SETIInstitute)

By Prabhash K Dutta: If space science interests you and you're keen on conspiracy theories, there is a good chance that you have heard about the Wow! signal. Since its discovery in 1977, Wow! signal has remained unexplained.

Several scientists and astronomers have sourced that mysterious sound to various things from the unknown ether of space, ranging from distant galaxies to wandering comets, to malfunction of the telescope that recorded it 40 years ago and, of course, to aliens.

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Now, an astronomer claims to have solved the mystery behind the Wow! signal. A report published in Life Science talks about astronomer Antonio Paris, who recently published his research paper in the Journal of the Washington Academy of Sciences explaining the origin of the mysterious sound.

Antonio Paris writes that the mysterious Wow! signal, a truly bizarre radio signal, seems to match up with the location of a comet called 266P/Christensen. This comet, however, was not discovered when the sound was detected 40 years ago.

WHAT IS WOW! SIGNAL?

In 1970s, a massive space experiment under the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence or SETI was underway. The Ohio University had set up the Big Ear radio telescope to catch any signal from outer space giving any clue about presence of an intelligent being out there somewhere in the outer space.

A SETI researcher, Jerry Ehman, heard an extremely strong signal from, what he believed was, the constellation Sagittarius. The signal lasted for only 72 seconds. It was never heard thereafter.

The signal was "loud" as it was more intense than anything in the background in the space that night of August 15, 1977. Technically speaking, the frequency had a small range much similar to those of artificial or human intelligence induced signals.

After deciphering the code, Jerry Ehman wrote 'Wow!' in red ink on the paper print out of the signal. This gave the sound its name - Wow! signal.

Many scientists still believe that the Wow! signal was their first interaction with aliens.

HOW ANTONIO PARIS EXPLAINED WOW! SIGNAL

Antonia Paris argues that since the comet, which could have generated the Wow! signal, was not catalogued when the sound was detected, it was not possible for the scientists to place the source correctly.

Comet 266P/Christensen is a passing comet, which was discovered in 2006. It was when it passed at a particular angle from the earth and the sun that it produced the Wow! signal.

Antonio Paris writes in his research paper that comets will, under certain conditions, emit radio waves from the gases that surround them as they zoom closer to the sun.

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Comet 266P/Christensen was in about the right position on the right day in 1977, Antonio Paris has said.

Comet 266P/Christensen passed through the same region of space as it was on August 25, 1977 on January 25, 2017.

Antonio Paris plans to reanalyse the findings with the possible signals produced by the passing of another comet - Comet P/2008 Y2 (Gibbs) - in the same region on January 7 next year.

So, there is still some time when the Florida astronomer of St Petersburg College may have his last word on the topic.

SKEPTICISM CONTINUES

However, not too many scientists are convinced with Antonio Paris' theory as of now. Even Jerry Ehman raised doubts over comet origin theory of Wow! signal in an interview to the Live Science.

Ehman said that the Big Ear telescope had two "feed horns", to record the same sound twice giving slightly different view of the radio wave.

"We should have seen the source come through twice in about three minutes: one response lasting 72 seconds and a second response for 72 seconds following within about a minute and a half. We did not see the second one," Ehman told Live Science.

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Explaining it further, the original detector of the Wow Signal said that the only way the sound would not be detected on the second horn could be if the signal was cut off abruptly. A comet is not known to do that.

Antonio Paris counters such arguments that feed horns, themselves, are not understood adequately. It is possible that the signal could have been generated by some malfunctioning in the Big Ear telescope.

Though, Antonio Paris is waiting for January next year to take collate more evidence for his theory to explain the source of Wow! signal.

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released new data showing that the air transport sector in Kenya supports some 620,000 jobs including tourism-related employment, while contributing US$3.2 billion or 5.1% of the East African nations GDP.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released new data showing that the air transport sector in Kenya supports some 620,000 jobs including tourism-related employment, while contributing US$3.2 billion or 5.1% of the East African nations GDP.

These findings are among the highlights of The Importance of Air Transport to Kenya (pdf) study conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of IATA.

The study confirms the vital role that air transport plays in facilitating over US$10 billion in exports, some US$4.4 billion in foreign direct investment and around US$800,000 in inbound leisure and business tourism for Kenya. However, by adopting policies that ensure a competitive operating environment for the airlines, Kenya could reap even greater dividends from aviation, said Muhammad Ali Albakri, IATAs Regional Vice President for the Middle East & Africa, who is making his first visit to Africa in his new capacity.

Infrastructure, Ease of Travel and Cost Competitiveness Are Vital:

According to executives surveyed by the World Economic Forum, Kenyas transport infrastructure quality score places the country 6th out of 37 African countries surveyed and 78th globally

Kenya ranks 10th out of 37 African countries for visa openness

Kenya ranks 31st out of 37 for cost competitiveness in the air transport industry, based on air ticket taxes, airport charges and VAT

Around 130,000 aircraft land and take off from one of Kenyas five main airports every year. Nairobis Jomo Kenyatta International is the key gateway and handled over 5.8 million passengers in 2014.

While Kenyas air transport infrastructure ranks highly among African states, it is important that heavy fees, taxes and charges do not hold aviation back. We are very encouraged by the news that the Kenya Airports Authority has embarked on a study to review Airport charges downwards, concluded Albakri.

During his visit to Nairobi, Mr. Albakri will be meeting with key industry stakeholders including officials from Kenyas government, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Airways and IATAs regional sister body, the African Airlines Association.

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- KDF soldiers have thwarted an al-Shabaab attack on their base near Bardere town in Gedo region of Somalia

- Reports say the terror group suffered heavy losses during the raid

- The Kenyan government is yet to issue a statement on the attack

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers have thwarted a major al-Shabaab attack on their base in near Bardere town in Gedo region of Somalia.

According to reports, the militants launched an attack on the KDF base on Friday night, June 16.

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that the heavily armed militants surrounded the base just as residents of Bardere were breaking their Ramadan fast with the fighting continuing until midnight.

READ ALSO: Aden Duale demands a public apology from Raila Odinga

KDF base attacked by al-Shabaab militants on Friday.

READ ALSO: Outrage after Sunday Nation senior reporter is arrested for writing about Uhuru's campaign funding

According to residents, heavy gunfire and explosions could be heard all night from the KDF base.

Sources said the militants were forced to flee after suffering heavy casualties during the botched raid.

The exact number of casualties during the attack is yet to be confirmed as the Kenyan government is yet to issue a statement.

READ ALSO: The two countries where NASA has set up parallel tallying centres

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers have thwarted a major al-Shabaab attack on their base in near Bardere town in Gedo region of Somalia.

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Al-Shabaab emerged in 2006 from the now-defunct Islamic Courts Union, which once controlled Somalias capital of Mogadishu.

The militant group launched its own insurgency on major Somali cities in 2009, taking control of Mogadishu and southern Somalia.

In 2015, the militant group launched a deadly assault on Garissa University College.

Have something to add to this article? Send to news@tuko.co.ke

Watch PLO Lumumba speak about the Raila conspiracy in the video below:

Source: TUKO.co.ke
- Militant group al-Shabaab has attacked KDF soldiers in Wajir county

- According to sources, one military vehicle was destroyed in a bomb attack

- Kenya Red Cross confirmed four soldiers have been critically injured during the attack

Militant group al-Shabaab has launched a deadly attack on Kenya Defence Force (KDF) soldiers in Wajir county on Monday, June 19.

According to sources, the KDF soldiers were traveling in a convoy near Gerille area when one of the military vehicles hit an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

TUKO.co.ke has learnt that four soldiers have been critically injured during the midday attack.

READ ALSO: Drama as parliamentary aspirant storms out of Uhuru Kenyatta's TV station

According to sources, the KDF soldiers were traveling in a convoy near Wajir Bor area when one of the military vehicles hit an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).

READ ALSO: Babu Owino's former deputy chases men away all because of Uhuru

A KDF military vehicle was badly damaged during the IED attack with Kenya Red Cross on ground to rescue the injured soldiers.

The injured soldiers have been airlifted to Nairobi for further treatment.

KDF is yet to issue a statement on the attack.

READ ALSO: Finally, Gaza gang members terrorising Murang'a residents busted

Militant group al-Shabaab has launched a deadly attack on Kenya Defence Force (KDF) soldiers in Wajir county on Monday, June 19.

Install TUKO App To Read News For FREE

Al-Shabaab emerged in 2006 from the now-defunct Islamic Courts Union, which once controlled Somalias capital of Mogadishu.

The militant group launched its own insurgency on major Somali cities in 2009, taking control of Mogadishu and southern Somalia.

In 2015, the militant group launched a deadly assault on Garissa University College.

Have something to add to this article? Send to news@tuko.co.ke

Watch PLO Lumumba speak about the Raila conspiracy in the video below:

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Many people have been left without pipe-borne water in northern and eastern parts of Trinidad and some areas in Tobago.

The Water and Sewerage Authority indicates this is a result of an impact to twelve of its plants due to adverse weather, which has caused flooding in some areas.
The post mortem report of Zafar Khan says that the tentative cause of his death is cardio-respiratory failure.

By Dev Ankur Wadhawan: Investigations into the death of Zafar Khan, an activist based out of Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district, has got entangled in a blame game.

The post mortem report, a copy of which has been accessed by India Today, has been made the basis of state machinery's claim that Zafar Khan was not murdered but died of heart attack.

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The post mortem report states, "In the opinion of Medical Board, tentative cause of death is cardio-respiratory failure. Final cause of death will be given after FSL & HPE report of viscera".

Shivraj Meena, Superintendent of Police, Pratapgarh, said, "As per the post mortem report, Zafar Khan's death was due to heart attack, and there is no such injury mark on Zafar's body which proves that he was murdered. The FSL report is yet to come... The case is being investigated impartially. The allegation against the accused is yet to be proved."

Kiran Maheshwari, a minister in the Vasundhara Raje government, maintained that the case was solved and Zafar Khan died due to a heart attack. "The incident has been handled. No issue remains. Investigation has been done. The tragedy happened due to a heart attack. I understand that it has been properly sorted out. Everyone has together sorted it out in a proper way," the minister said.

On Sunday, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje called Zafar Khan's "demise" extremely unfortunate, a comment which saw enough criticism coming her way on social media. "The demise of Zafar Khan ji in Pratapgarh is extremely unfortunate. Investigation is on--justice shall prevail," the Rajasthan CM had tweeted.

EYEWITNESSES HAVE A DIFFERENT STORY TO TELL

Eyewitnesses, however, alleged that Zafar Khan was brutally assaulted by civic officials after he objected to them clicking pictures of women defecating in the open.

The commissioner of the Nagar Parishad is of the four accused named in the FIR filed by Zafar Khan's brother Noor Mohammed.

Sarsi, an eyewitness to the alleged lynching, said: "Three of us had gone to relieve ourselves. Suddenly, a vehicle stopped near us and people who got down from that vehicle started misbehaving and clicking pictures. We started shouting. Zafar bhai came and tried to save us but they started beating him up and hit him with stones. He fell unconscious but was still beaten up. We tried to save him".

Another eyewitness, Jaitun, said, "First, two men got hold of him and then someone started beating him up, he was hit with stones too. We saw it. I was standing there".

A copy of post mortem report. A copy of post mortem report.

A copy of post mortem report.

The post mortem report. Credit: India Today.

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ALSO READ:

Zafar Khan lynching: Civil rights activists in Rajasthan demand justice

Vasundhara Raje tweets on Zafar Khan's 'demise', faces flak for condoning lynching

Rajasthan activist objects to photography of women defecating in open, gets beaten to death

ALSO WATCH: Rajasthan activist lynched for objecting to women being photographed

--- ENDS ---
President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has left on Monday for a working visit to the United States.

Spokesperson of the Head of State Svyatoslav Tsegolko wrote this on his Facebook page.

"The President of Ukraine has left for a working visit to the United States," he wrote.

As Ukrinform reported referring to a source in the Administration of the President, during the visit, in particular, Poroshenko will hold a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

ish
Human rights activists, relatives and colleagues of the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar activists repressed by the Russian regime appealed to the leadership of the EU and the NATO for personal restrictive measures against the leadership of the Russian Federation due to human rights violations.

This is stated in a letter to the above-mentioned institutions, a copy of which is available to Ukrinform.

Recalling the anniversary of the adoption of the EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy adopted by the European Council on June 28, 2016, the signatories to the letter note that in its strategic document the EU recorded the non-recognition of the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia and advocated for the observance of human rights through a dialogue and support, even in difficult cases.

The authors of the letter also remind that during the NATO summit in Warsaw on July 8-9, 2016, it was recognized that "Russia bears full responsibility for the serious deterioration of the human rights situation on the Crimean peninsula", and "the European Parliament in its resolution of March 16, 2017 noted the responsibility of the occupation authorities for political persecution, illegal arrests, torture of Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian activists, for violation of freedom of speech and press in Crimea."

Therefore, the human rights activists, relatives, colleagues of the political prisoners of the Kremlin urged in an open letter the leadership of the EU and NATO to bring "the human rights to the forefront", as stated in the EU Global Strategy, and to bring personal restrictive measures and sectoral sanctions against the leadership of Russia responsible for flagrant violations of human rights.

ish
By Dev Ankur Wadhawan: Civil rights activists came together in Jaipur today to demand justice for Zafar Khan, the man allegedly lynched to death in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district. The activists demanded the arrest of the accused in Zafar Khan's case and claimed people were being degraded and demeaned under the Swachh Bharat mission.

"This is the third death due to lynching in the state. However, the cases of lynching are umpteen. Just between March to June, we have had more than ten such cases. So, we demand accountability from the state government. We don't want the state to slide into anarchy. We want the rule of law to prevail in the case of Zafar Hussain. How can anyone call it a natural death? He was beaten to death, he was murdered. Arrest those safai karamcharis and the chairperson," PUCL's Kavita Srivastava said.

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GOVERNMENT PERSECUTING PEOPLE

The activists claimed the ground reality is that the government has failed to ensure proper toilets and in turn is persecuting poor people. As per one of the activists, it is a crime under Section 354 C to take pictures of women while they were defecating and have demanded action and termed it as extremely shameful to claim that Zafar Khan's death was not murder.

Nikhil Dey of Mazdoor Kisan Sangharsh Samiti (MKSS) said, "In the so-called Swachh Bharat mission, where people are being degraded, their dignity is being completely put aside, where they are being told that if you don't build a toilet you won't get work under the NREGRA, you won't get food under rations. What is the objective of this government? To kill people?"

Also read: Vasundhara Raje tweets on Zafar Khan's 'demise', faces flak for condoning lynching

Also read: Rajasthan: Men thrash mentally ill woman, make her say 'Allah, 'Jai Shri Ram'

--- ENDS ---
UNICEF/UN060490/Sokhin

Download photos, video and b-roll: http://uni.cf/2rlg9Tn

NEW YORK, 19 June 2017  UNICEF announced today, on the eve of World Refugee Day, the appointment of Muzoon Almellehan, a 19-year-old education activist and Syrian refugee, as its newest  and youngest  Goodwill Ambassador. The appointment makes Muzoon the first person with official refugee status to become an Ambassador for UNICEF.

Muzoon, who received support from UNICEF while living in Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan, follows in the footsteps of the late Audrey Hepburn, a Goodwill Ambassador who was also supported by UNICEF as a child.

Even as a child, I knew that education was the key to my future, so when I fled Syria, the only belongings I took with me were my school books, said Muzoon. As a refugee, I saw what happens when children are forced into early marriage or manual labor  they lose out on education and they lose out on possibilities for the future. Thats why I am proud to be working with UNICEF to help give these children a voice and to get them into school.

Muzoon fled the conflict in Syria along with her family in 2013, living as refugee for three years in Jordan before being resettled in the United Kingdom. It was during her 18 months in the Zaatari camp that she began advocating for childrens access to education, particularly for girls.

Muzoon's story of bravery and fortitude inspires us all. We are very proud she will now become an Ambassador for UNICEF and children around the world, said UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Justin Forsyth.

Muzoon recently travelled with UNICEF to Chad, a country where nearly three times as many girls as boys of primary school age in conflict areas are missing out on education. She met with children forced out of school due to the Boko Haram conflict in the Lake Chad region. Since her return, Muzoon has been working to promote understanding of the challenges children affected and uprooted by conflict face in accessing education.

An estimated 25 million children of primary and secondary school are out of school in conflict zones. For children living as refugees, only half are enrolled in primary school and less than a quarter are enrolled in secondary school.

Education in emergencies is severely underfunded. Since 2010, less than 2 per cent of humanitarian funding has been spent on education. $8.5 billion are needed annually to close this gap.

KEY FACTS

Across the globe, nearly 50 million children have been uprooted  28 million of them driven from their homes by conflicts not of their making, and millions more migrating in the hope of finding a better, safer life.

Refugee children and adolescents are five times more likely to be out of school than their non-refugee peers.

Girls affected by conflict are 2.5 times more likely to be out of school than boys.

Protracted crises present complex challenges. Refugees spend on average 17 years displaced, almost an entire childhood.

Education in emergencies is severely underfunded. Since 2010, less than 2.7 per cent of humanitarian funding has been spent on education. $8.5 billion USD is needed annually to close this gap.

###



Notes to editors:

Education is one of six key actions that UNICEF is urging governments to take to protect child refugees. UNICEF is urging the public to join the more than 3 million people already standing in solidarity with children uprooted by war, violence and poverty by supporting the six-point Agenda for Action which includes:

Protect child refugees and migrants, particularly unaccompanied children, from exploitation and violence; End the detention of children seeking refugee status or migrating, by introducing a range of practical alternatives; Keep families together as the best way to protect children and give children legal status; Keep all refugee and migrant children learning and give them access to health and other quality services; Press for action on the underlying causes of large scale movements of refugees and migrants; Promote measures to combat xenophobia, discrimination and marginalization in countries of transit and destination.

###
UW-Stevens Point's Veteran Coordinator's primary role is to explain military educational benefit options, assist with the application for benefits, and to provide campus and community resource information that will contribute to the academic success and well-being of all military-affiliated students.

Here's how we help:

Assist students navigate and understand the process of applying for Federal and State VA benefits.





Connect students with resources on campus and other student veterans.





Reach out to faculty and staff on campus to support their efforts in serving our students.





Military Student Priority Registration

UW-Stevens Point provides service members, veterans, and ROTC students priority registration each semester in compliance with Wisconsin Act AB201 and Section 303 of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017. Registration appointment times are based on student status or credits earned. Military students are given appointment times for the next level greater than their current status. For example, a freshman will receive appointment times based on sophomore status.



2019 WI Act 147



Students should be aware that you have a choice whether or not to accept the credits from your Joint Service Transcript (JST) or your Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) transcript offered to you by UW-Stevens Point. The 2019 WI Act 147 provides flexibility to veterans in determining whether they would like their credits transferred from military transcripts to the University of Wisconsin System or technical colleges. Specifically, it contains this language:



SECTION 2. 36.31 (4) (bm) of the statutes is created to read: 36.31 (4) (bm) An institution or college campus may not award academic credit to a student under par. (am) for each course for which the student, upon consultation with the institution's or college campus's staff, objects to the awarding of credit for that course.

Students who are given credits that may not pertain directly to their program could be disadvantaged for financial aid purposes or other professional groups or designations.



It is important to make your determination regarding acceptance of these credits , in consultation with your advisor, in your first semester.



GOOD NEWS FOR OUT OF STATE VETERANS

Nonresident veterans may qualify to have the nonresident portion of your tuition charges waived through either the Veterans Access, Choice & Accountability Act of 2014-Section 702 or through the Yellow Ribbon program.

If you are...

A Veteran who lives in the state where he or she is attending school (regardless of his/her legal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within three years of discharge from a qualifying period of active duty service of 90 days or more.





Anyone using transferred Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits who lives in the state where he or she is attending school (regardless of his/her legal state of residence)





A spouse or child using benefits under the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship who lives in the state where he or she is attending school (regardless of his/her legal state of residence)

...then UW-Stevens Point will waive the nonresident portion of the tuition charges.

Nonresident veterans that discharged from the military more than 3 years prior to attending school may qualify for the Yellow Ribbon program. This means UW-Stevens Point and the VA agree to pay/waive your nonresident tuition as long as you have Post 9/11 benefits to use.

For additional details, see the "Benefits Available" tab on the left hand side of this page or call 715-346-4771.

UW-Stevens Point has been designated as a 2019 Military Friendly School and selected as a TOP SCHOOL in Military Advanced Education's 2018 Guide to Colleges & Universities.
Many street children in Cambodia fall victim to drugs and the trap of poverty. Mith Samlanh, a local NGO, seeks to help such children escape life on the street.

Like many NGOs in Cambodia, Mith Samlanh once relied almost exclusively on donations to fund their work, but cuts in donor funding have forced the group to seek alternative means of ensuring their work can continue.

Sokhom Pin, a program coordinator for the NGO, said since funding began to be scaled back around 1996, the group has looked to launch businesses to part-fund its work.

After the street kids and youth came to get training from us, we created restaurants and other shops to generate some income to help with sustainability and thus reduce the risk of operations as funding is gradually reduced.

Sokhom said the skills that the children learn at Mith Samlanh include cookery, English and French language lessons, auto-repair, tailoring, hairdressing, electronics and metal work, among other skills.

The skills learned at the training sessions are intended to prepare the children to work in the private sector and generate further income for Mith Samlanh, Sokhom said.

The NGO said it now generates about half of its roughly $2.5 million annual budget from these programs. It has sheltered some 5,100 street children and their parents, as well as working with more than 9,000 at-risk youngsters in the community.

Mith Samlanh says it has a 60 to70 percent success rate of getting children who have been through its training programs to work afterwards, according to Sokanha Vuthy of Friends International.

So we try to send them to outside jobs so that they will learn more in addition to what they have learned here. So we get external jobs for them as soon as they finish training here.

At the Rachana Votey tailors, five of the seven staff are from Mith Samlanh. Owner Bee Rath Votey, 30, said many of her clients also take Mith Samlanh trainees as they are known for being well behaved and hard workers.

I am Khmer and I want to make a contribution, large or small, as much as I can, she said. I want them to learn real skills.

Yin Sreyleak, 22, a Mith Samlanh trainee, said she had been at the tailors for more than a year and wanted to help new trainees as she had had such a positive experience with the NGO.

I am very happy to work here ... I want to run a business like [Votey[, she said.

Sopha Vy, 57, one of Mith Samlanhs older training recipients, was given $350 by the organization to launch a small business.

I am learning to grow a small business. I didn't know how to do this business. I worked as a government civil servant for over 20 years. Then I learned this new skill from Mith Samlanh, he said.

Mith Samlanh sometimes finds it difficult to attract young people to their programs because they often need money immediately and thus prefer to become migrant workers, said Sokanha.

I know money is important, but they could spend six months getting the skills which they could rely on for the rest of their lives, she said.

Others who find themselves addicted to drugs and alcohol also find it difficult to stay in Mith Samlanhs programs.

I went there but I could not stay. Im more happy living outside. I can get access to drugs, wine, beer and have my friends, said one youth, who asked not to be identified. Thats why I couldnt stay at the center, because I could not change.
Judges at the Khmer Rouge tribunal have closed their investigation into Yim Tiths alleged involvement with the regime.

Tith was alleged to have held a mid-rank position in the Democratic Kampuchea regime and was accused of crimes against humanity including the persecution of Khmer Krom and Vietnamese people.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) said the decision marked the conclusion of more than eight years of investigative work.

Neth Pheaktra, ECCC spokesman, said relevant parties had 15 days to launch complaints over the decision and request further investigation.

Tith was put under court supervision in December 2015.

Long Panhavuth, a court observer, said a lack of funding was responsible for the case being concluded early. The lack of budget is one element, but the important issue is the lack of political will, he said.

Victims and plaintiffs, he added, would get no justice at the ECCC so long as the problems persisted.

It is a great regret when these cases are voided after an investigation was conducted for eight years.

Latt Ky, a human rights worker with local group Adhoc, said political pressure had receded somewhat since the court appeared to back off from confrontation with the government over prosecutions.

Everyone is aware that all the suspects are responsible people but it depends on the impartial professionalism of the co-investigating judges. So, the co-investigating judges will make a decision based on their understanding, he said.

Tiths case is part of Case 004, which includes other high-profile suspects, such as Im Chaem and Ao An. In February the judges dropped their case against Chaem, claiming it did not fall within the courts jurisdiction as she was not considered a senior Khmer Rouge regime official.
Sylvain Vogel, a native of France, grew up in Alsace-Lorraine speaking French and German. Since then, hes acquired fluency in English, Portuguese, Farsi, Pashto and Khmer, the language spoken by the majority of people in his adopted country, Cambodia.

Vogel has spent most of the past 25 years studying, researching and teaching, and helping anchor the fledgling rebirth of a culture of scholarship in this Southeast Asian country following the repressive and anti-intellectual Khmer Rouge rule of the 1970s.

A professor at the Royal University of Fine Arts, he teaches  no surprise  linguistics and Sanskrit, which is closely related to Khmer.

Passion project

Outside the classroom, he has pursued a passion project  documenting Bunong  since the mid-1990s. A largely unwritten language, it is spoken by members of the Bunong ethnic group, who live in Cambodias sparsely populated Mondulkiri province, a place of mystical beauty under threat from modernization and encroachment by the Khmer population and foreign investment.

Earlier this year, Vogels scholarship and independent research received a boost when it was recognized by the Fainting Robin Foundation. The U.S. organization supports independent scholars and announced in March that Vogel would be the first recipient of its distinguished scholar award.

Most of Vogels research over the years about the Bunong language and people was carried out at his own expense, said Peter Maguire, chairman of the Fainting Robin Foundation.

It was a project that took close to 20 years, with no outside support, with no support or minimal support, said Maguire, an author and historian who set up the foundation in Wilmington, North Carolina.

He [Vogel] is a resource that is very important to Cambodia, said Chan Somnoble, one of Vogels first Cambodian students, who earned a Ph.D. in linguistics in 2002 from Universite Paris Nanterre and is now the deputy director of the Royal Academy of Cambodia and head of the prestigious National Council for Khmer Language.

Watch: Saving Bunong, a Vulnerable Language in Cambodia

First meeting, fluency

Vogel first met members of the indigenous Bunong community in 1994. He became intrigued by the unwritten language and the Bunongs rich folklore, which was passed orally from generation to generation.

I knew Bunong is in the family of Mon-Khmer languages, Vogel told VOA Khmer. As a linguist, I had to learn Bunong to compare Khmer and Bunong.

So, Vogel being Vogel, did just that. He gradually immersed himself in the Bunong community and its distinct way of life, staying in remote villages for days and then weeks at a time.

Fluency in yet another language came as he deepened his relationship with the Bunong, and over the years, Vogel found their way of living among the rolling, jungle hills changing.

A governing system centered on village chiefs and local elders gave way to administrative officers and provincial officials. Bunong children were encouraged to attend schools where they spoke in Khmer, learned about computers and studied English.

What losing a language means

Vogel voiced his concerns over the potential loss of the Bunong language and traditions.

Bunong language is not used much, the society is changing a lot, so I am afraid that Bunong language will disappear, Vogel said.

Becky Butler of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who wrote her dissertation while at Cornell University on Bunong, agrees with Vogels assessment.

The Ethnologue says its developing. UNESCO says its severely endangered, Butler told VOA Khmer. So Id put it probably at vulnerable. She estimates there are about 75,000 Bunong speakers in Cambodia, Vietnam and the United States.

Vogels first book about the language translated Bunong grammar into the international phonetic alphabet. It was published in 2006 in French. Vogel has written two other books about the grammar and aspects of oral literature, such as epics, songs and chants, and one book about Bunong culture.

I think that is tremendously important ... because hes recording the sort of oral tradition, which speaks a lot to who people in the community are and what they believe in their history, and how they see themselves in another perspective on life that might otherwise be lost especially as the older generations pass away, Butler said.

Yun Lorang is a native Bunong and he also worries that his language is deteriorating.

I am quite worried because language is related to identity, Lorang, secretariat coordinator of Cambodia Indigenous People Alliance, told VOA Khmer. In a crowd, they [Bunong people] rarely speak Bunong, they speak Khmer.

Lorang thinks that having the Bunong language and culture documented in a written and published form can help prevent it from disappearing.

History is very important for us to recover our own spirit, values and identities, said Lorang, who lives in Sen Monorom town, the capital of Mondulkiri province.

The idea of any language dying, I think is tragic, Butler said. Language is so intensively tied to who we are. People say that it determines how we see the world.

I think we all lose something, some knowledge about the human conditions, some knowledge about why people think the way they do, and we lose some aspects of, I think, beauty in the world.

A rare level of commitment

Maguire has known Vogel for years and spent some time with him in Mondulkiri province. He praised Vogels dedication to studying Bunong, a language that has received little attention from established researchers and academic institutions, Cambodian or international.

Vogel also teaches his Cambodian students Sanskrit and general linguistics rather than French because of historical ties between Khmer and the ancient language.

Vogel said not many Cambodian students wanted to study Sanskrit but that even one was enough because more Sanskrit inscriptions may be discovered in the future in Cambodia, he said. If there are Khmer experts on Sanskrit, they can work with international researchers to translate Sanskrit inscriptions which belong to Cambodia.

Vogels work as a Sanskrit and linguistics professor, whose instruction helped nurture respected Cambodian scholars such as Somnoble, is another reason the foundation recognized him, Maguire said.

As long as I knew him, he taught linguistics five days a week, and he taught in Khmer, Maguire said. He didnt teach in English. He didnt teach in French. He made a huge effort to learn the language, to learn it well, to learn it grammatically correct, and to learn how to read it and write it. Thats a level of commitment very few scholars have.
This week, Uganda welcomes U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres and other high-level international guests and donors for the Refugee Solidarity Conference. Conflict and hunger in South Sudan continue to send civilians across the border, and Uganda now hosts more refugees than any other country besides Turkey. With this weeks conference in Kampala, Uganda hopes to raise $8 billion. Halima Athumani reports.
Representatives from Britain and the European Union are meeting Monday in Brussels to begin the complicated process of negotiating Britain's exit from the EU.

The talks come about one year after voters in Britain narrowly decided to make the move.

Top British negotiator David Davis said his side is starting the process with a "positive and constructive tone," and that "there is more that unites us than divides us."

The lead EU negotiator, Michel Barnier, said his priority is to clear up "uncertainties caused by Brexit."

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

"Now, the hard work begins," Davis said, adding he wanted a deal that worked for both sides. "These talks will be difficult at points, but we will be approaching them in a constructive way."

Barnier, a keen mountaineer, spent the weekend in his native Alps "to draw the strength and energy needed for long walks". Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe that May's government may at last coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.

Which Brexit?

May's election debacle has revived feuding over Europe among Conservatives that her predecessor David Cameron hoped to end by calling the referendum and leaves EU leaders unclear on her plan for a "global Britain" which most of them regard as pure folly.

While "Brexiteers" have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties.

With discontent in europhile Scotland and troubled Northern Ireland, which faces a new EU border across the divided island, Brexit poses new threats to the integrity of the United Kingdom.

It will test the ingenuity of thousands of public servants racing against the clock to untangle 44 years of EU membership before Britain is out, 649 days from now, on March 30, 2019. For the officials sitting down on Monday, at least on the EU side, a major worry is Britain crashing out into a limbo, with no deal.

For that reason, Brussels wants as a priority to guarantee rights for 3 million EU citizens in Britain and be paid tens of billions of euros it says London will owe on its departure.

With a further million British expatriates in the EU, May too wants a deal on citizens' rights, though the two sides are some way apart. Agreeing to pay a "Brexit bill" may be more inflammatory.

Brussels is also resisting British demands for immediate talks on a future free trade arrangement. The EU insists that should wait until an outline agreement on divorce terms, ideally by the end of this year. In any case, EU officials say, London no longer seems sure of what trade arrangements it will ask for.

But Union leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to follow.

When 52 percent of British voters opted for Brexit, some feared for the survival of a Union battered by the euro crisis and divided in its response to chaotic immigration. The election of the fervently europhile Macron, and his party's sweep of the French parliament on Sunday, has revived optimism in Brussels.

Britain and the EU have until the end of March 2019 to reach an agreement and have it ratified by parliaments in the remaining EU member states.
Cameroon has detained 30 of its soldiers fighting Boko Haram in the northern part of the country. The Defense Ministry says the soldiers abandoned their positions in a protest over pay and working conditions.

Military officials in Cameroon say the incident happened earlier this month. Several dozen Cameroonian soldiers erected barricades near the country's border with Nigeria and asked to be immediately replaced. The soldiers were part of the Multinational Joint Task Force fighting Boko Haram since 2015.



Colonel Didier Badjeck, spokesperson of Cameroon's military, said the protest was "unacceptable." He said so far 30 of the soldiers who took part have been arrested.

He said the minister of defense gave instructions that the protesters should be arrested so that this bad memory can be forgotten. He said he does not understand what went wrong in the minds of the soldiers to abandon the commitment and oath they took to defend the nation with honor and loyalty even to the ultimate sacrifice.

Badjeck says investigations are ongoing to fish out those who may have masterminded the unrest.

Military officers who did not join the protest tell VOA the soldiers were disgruntled that they are not receiving the same allowances as their peers serving in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Central African Republic, who they said get an additional bonus of $500 per month.

But Cameroons government says soldiers fighting Boko Haram are not U.N. peacekeepers and are not entitled to the same allowances. The force fighting Boko Haram is a regional mission organized through the Lake Chad Basin Commission.

Colonel Akoutou Mvondo, Cameroon's director of military justice, says Cameroon has paid salaries and allowances to soldiers sent to the front in the north, but he declined to say how much.



He said the military hierarchy took time to explain to these soldiers that their allowances and bonuses were to be paid from contributions of member states and that while waiting for the contributions, each country would pay its soldiers taking part in the war, according to agreements made with its soldiers.

Mvondo said soldiers who took part in the protest may be charged with acts of revolt or rebellion under the military justice code, pending results of the investigation.

The 8,700-strong regional force fighting Boko Haram is led by Nigeria and includes troops from Cameroon, Niger, Chad and Benin.

Donors, including Nigeria and the European Union, have pledged at least $250 million to fight the insurgents but that remains well short of the forces original projected budget of $700 million.
Family members of Zafar Khan and eyewitnesses had claimed he was brutally assaulted by the civic officials after he objected to them clicking pictures of women defecating in the open.

By Dev Ankur Wadhawan: India Today has accessed an exclusive video of Zafar Khan, the 50 year old CPI (ML) activist, who died after allegedly being assaulted by civic officials in Rajasthan's Pratapgarh district.

The video shows Zafar, in an argument and threatening the civic body officials. The 13 second long video gives a glimpse into what possibly happened before the death of Zafar Khan.

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Family members of Zafar Khan and eyewitnesses had claimed he was brutally assaulted by the civic officials after he objected to them clicking pictures of women defecating in the open. There are four accused in the FIR filed by Noor Mohammed, Zafar's brother, including Ashok Jain, Commissioner of Nagar Parishad.

"I saw the fat man with red hair was beating... first two men got hold and then one, beat him up a lot, beat up with stones. This is something we saw. We saw it. I was standing there," said Jaitun an eyewitness.

"We three women had gone to relieve ourselves. Then, a vehicle came and team people got down and started misbehaving, started clicking pictures. After taking pictures, we began shouting. Zafar bhai came, he tried to save. Then, they began beating him up, beat him up with stones. Then, he became unconscious. They punched and kicked him, we tried to rescue as well," said Sarsi, another witness.

The post-mortem report, a copy of which has been accessed by India Today, is being made the basis by the state machinery to claim Zafar Khan was not murdered but died of heart attack.

"In the opinion of Medical Board Tentative cause of Death is Cardio - Respiratory Failure, Final cause of Death will be given after FSL and HPE Report of viscera," read the post-mortem report.

"As per the post-mortem report, Zafar Khan's death was due to heart attack, and there is no such injury mark on Zafar's body which proves that he was murdered. The FSL report is yet to come... The case is being investigated impartially. The allegation against the accused is yet to be proved," said Pratapgarh SP, Shivraj Meena about the post-mortem.

Also read:

CM Raje tweets on Zafar Khan's 'demise', faces flak for condoning lynching

Zafar Khan died of heart attack not lynching, says Rajasthan government citing post mortem report

Zafar Khan death unfortunate, CM Vasundhara Raje says, indicates it wasn't murder

WATCH | Rajasthan government says activist Zafar Khan's death not due to lynching

--- ENDS ---
Carrie Fisher's autopsy report shows the actress had cocaine in her system when she fell ill on a plane last year, but investigators could not determine what impact the cocaine and other drugs found in her system had on her death.



The report released Monday states Fisher may have taken cocaine three days before the Dec. 23 flight on which she became ill. She died four days later.



It also found traces of heroin, other opiates and MDMA, which is also known as ecstasy, but that they could not determine when Fisher had taken those drugs. The findings were based on toxicology screenings done on samples taken when the "Star Wars'' actress arrived at a Los Angeles hospital.



Coroner's officials ruled Fisher died from sleep apnea and a combination of other factors. A news release issued Friday mentioned drugs were found in Fisher's system, but it did not provide details.



Monday's full report contains a detailed explanation of the results, such as why investigators believe Fisher took cocaine at least three days before her flight.



"At this time the significance of cocaine cannot be established in this case,'' the report states.



It also states that while heroin is detectable in the system for a briefer period of time, investigators could not determine when Fisher took it or the ecstasy. Toxicology tests also found other opiates in Fisher's system, including morphine, although the report states the morphine could have been a byproduct of heroin.



"Ms. Fisher suffered what appeared to be a cardiac arrest on the airplane accompanied by vomiting and with a history of sleep apnea. Based on the available toxicological information, we cannot establish the significance of the multiple substances that were detected in Ms. Fisher's blood and tissue, with regard to the cause of death,'' the report states.



Among the factors that contributed to Fisher's death was buildup of fatty tissue in the walls of her arteries, the coroner's office said last week.



A phone message left for Fisher's brother, Todd, was not immediately returned.



Todd Fisher said Friday he was not surprised that drugs may have contributed to his sister's death.



"I would tell you, from my perspective that there's certainly no news that Carrie did drugs,'' Todd Fisher said. He noted that his sister wrote extensively about her drug use, and that many of the drugs she took were prescribed by doctors to try to treat her mental health conditions.



Fisher long battled drug addiction and mental illness. She said she smoked pot at 13, used LSD by 21 and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 24. She was treated with electroshock therapy and medication.



"I am not shocked that part of her health was affected by drugs,'' Todd Fisher said.



He said his sister's heart condition was probably worsened by her smoking habit, as well as the medications she took.

"If you want to know what killed her, it's all of it,'' he said.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez called U.S. President Donald Trumps recent speech on Cuba a grotesque spectacle that will only serve to strengthen the revolution, and criticized the Trump administrations decision to roll back some Obama-era policies toward the island nation.

Cuba will make no concessions on its sovereignty and its independence, Rodriguez told reporters in Vienna on Monday. [Cuba] will not negotiate over its principles and will never accept [imposed] conditions.

The comments were in response to Trumps speech last Friday in Miami, which is home to a large Cuban exile community. Standing next to U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, whose parents are Cuban immigrants, Trump vowed to cancel the last administrations completely one-sided deal with Cuba.

To raucous applause, Trump delineated his new policies, including a prohibition on American financial engagement with firms tied to the Cuban military conglomerate GAESA, and tighter rules for Americans traveling to the Caribbean island.

Trump also demanded that Cuba return fugitives wanted by the United States, but Rodriguez said Cuba would not comply.

Cuba conceded political asylum or refuge to U.S. fighters for civil rights, Rodriguez said. These persons will not be returned to the United States.

Despite criticizing the Obama administrations Cuba policies, Trump will leave many of his predecessors policies untouched. Commercial flights will continue and the U.S. embassy in Havana will remain open.

At length, Rodriguez also criticized alleged U.S. human rights abuses.

There are many and systematic murders, brutality and abuses by the police, particularly against African Americans, Rodriguez was quoted [by Prensa Latina] as saying.
The past week's tempestuous parliament approval of a deal transferring two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia is putting Egypt's government at odds with the judiciary and providing the country's battered opposition with a nationalist cause to whip up at a time of growing economic distress.



The surprise 2016 deal to hand over the islands of Tiran and Sanafir aimed to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, which has provided distressed Egypt with billions of dollars in grants and soft loans over the past four years. It comes amid fitful efforts to establish an axis of cooperation between two powers vying for leadership of the self-styled moderate Sunni Arab camp - countries which oppose Shiite Iran and are willing to weigh closer ties to Israel.



But the opposition has proven a headache for President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, whose popularity seems to be slipping in the wake of economic liberalization reforms that deeply hurt Egyptians' living standards even while winning global praise. Sissi's government has been gaining greater acceptance by governments internationally, even while facing criticism over its authoritarian policies - defended on security grounds - that include jailing opponents and crushing rights groups.



With parliament's approval of the handover, the dispute over the islands now pits the legislative and executive branches of government against the judiciary. Courts issued two rulings over the past year that clearly stated the islands belong to Egypt.



In Egypt's sometimes murky power structure, it is not clear where such a battle of wills could go.



The issue takes on added significance and sensitivity because Tiran controls the only shipping lane leading to the ports of Eilat and Aqaba, in Israel and Jordan respectively. The closure of the so called Tiran Strait was a main trigger of the 1967 Middle East war.



Saudi Arabia's request for the islands and the absence of any official explanation from Cairo or Riyadh has prompted widespread speculation. One scenario says the islands afford the Saudis a say of some sort in renewed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations along with formal contacts with Israel. Another line of speculation says these contacts would contribute toward formulating a joint strategy against Shiite Iran, a nemesis to the Saudis and Israelis alike.



Here's a look at some of the issues related to the islands and how they are likely to evolve:



The agreement:



The maritime border demarcation agreement under which Egypt would transfer control of the islands to Saudi Arabia was signed and announced when Saudi King Salman was visiting Egypt in April 2016. The announcement came as the Saudis unveiled a multibillion-dollar package of soft loans and investments to Egypt, prompting charges the government was handing over the islands in return for Saudi money.



The courts:



A court in June 2016 ruled to annul the transfer of the islands. When the government appealed, a higher court upheld the verdict in January and asserted that the islands were Egyptian. The higher court alluded to official documents, some dating back to Ottoman and British colonial times, showing Cairo's exercise of full sovereignty over the islands over the years and offered a legal opinion that dismissed the agreement as unconstitutional.



The government, meanwhile, filed a case with the Supreme Constitutional Court seeking a ruling on whether the two courts had jurisdiction over the case. That court starts hearings next month, but a panel of constitutional experts already filed a report saying the courts did indeed have jurisdiction. If that's the case, serious doubts would be cast on the legality of parliament's ratification of the deal.



That, in turn, would usher in a potentially damaging battle between the legislature and the judiciary. In any case, Sissi has to sign off on parliament's ratification before the agreement can go into effect. He has yet to and there has been no word on whether he will await the Supreme Constitutional Court's ruling. He will have to tread carefully given the court's weight and the erosion of parliament's credibility over its handling of the agreement.



Parliament:



The 596-seat legislature ratified the deal on June 14 after four days of at times vicious arguments. Lawmakers on each side threw around accusations of treason, payments by foreign powers and illegal amassing of wealth.



The disorder reinforced critics' charges that parliament is just a tool for the government to carry out its agenda and that many of its members lack the political skills to effectively carry out their duties. The government denies parliament is a rubber stamp, pointing to the rare cases where it has blocked proposals.



Perhaps most egregiously, Speaker Ali Abdel-Al asserted that judicial rulings on the agreement amounted to nil, a position seen as contemptuous of the judiciary. But only a mass resignation by the around 100 lawmakers who oppose the agreement might embarrass the chamber enough to trigger calls for its dissolution. In the meantime, more than 100 lawmakers have urged Sissi not to sign off on parliament's ratification before the Supreme Constitutional Court's verdict, according to local media.



The opposition:



Activists raged over the issue on social media. But online calls for street protests achieved a meager response, likely a sign of how Egyptians have become fatigued by recent years' instability, cowed by security crackdowns and consumed with economic privations.



Police arrested more than 100 activists and demonstrators over the weekend, of whom about half remain in custody, according to rights lawyers. There were a handful of small protests in Cairo Friday, quickly broken up by security forces.



But future street action is possible.

If the government went ahead and handed over the islands to Saudi Arabia, we will consider them occupied and will work toward liberating them by all means available, said one opposition leader, Farid Zahran.



An opinion poll conducted by an Egypt-based pollster, Baseera, found that 47 percent of those questioned believed the islands were Egyptian, with only 11 percent saying they were Saudi. The poll, conducted June 11-12, asked 1,164 people. The margin of error was below 3 percent.
The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia for a year over its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

EU foreign ministers said in a statement Monday that the 28-nation bloc "remains committed to fully implement its non-recognition policy" of Russia's seizure of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol.

The sanctions are now set to run until June 23, 2018, and apply to EU citizens and companies. They ban the import of products from Crimea and Sevastopol, halt any European investment or real estate purchases and stop cruise ships from stopping there.

The measures also ban the export of some goods and technologies that could be used for transport, telecommunications or in the energy sector  particularly oil, gas or mineral exploration.

These sanctions are just one part of a raft of measures the EU has imposed on Russia for its role in the conflict in Ukraine and misuse of Ukrainian state funds.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters Monday that Moscow does not think the sanctions are "legitimate." He said "they are hurting not only us but also the countries that adopted them."

In addition to the annexation of Crimea, Russia is backing separatists in eastern Ukraine who are fighting the government. The fighting has left over 10,000 people dead.
How national leaders respond to a crisis, man-made or natural, can make or break their time in office, and even curtail it, if they get it awfully wrong. Aside from showing determination to correct what went wrong or repairing the damage, did they connect and channel a nations grief acting as an inspiring mourner-in-chief?

That question is being asked now of British Prime Minister Theresa May as she faces public fury over her response to a devastating fire last week in London that engulfed an apartment tower, leaving at least 59 dead, dozens missing and hundreds of people homeless.

Staggering from terrorist attacks to a man-made disaster and on Monday back to another terror attack, May has appeared all too often, according to critics, aloof and unfeeling. She is widely dubbed as "Maybot" for her programmed and often perfunctory responses and her initial failure to visit victims and survivors of the terror attack and tower block fire has prompted fury.

The charge she is unfeeling is vehemently denied by her aides as unfair, but even the countrys Conservative tabloid press has turned critical. Tory columnist Simon Heffer damned her for her robotic and sequestered performance and for her complete failure to connect with the public.

Fair or not, national leaders across the Western world have little room for error these days in how they respond to outrages and catastrophe, faced as they are by suspicious, disgruntled publics that have scant faith in established politicians and are ready to heed populists offering simple and sometimes punitive solutions.

Europes leaders are being tested, and how they cope with the aftermath of disaster is either helping them to tamp down populist anger, channel it or be consumed by it, say analysts.

Declining caliber

Last week, the Economist magazine lamented the declining caliber of the countrys leaders on both sides of the political spectrum, arguing, Today it is as if Britains various elites have all decided, at exactly the same time, to stop sending their best people to Parliament.

Part of the problem, the magazine suggested, is that while in the past the ranks of the politicians were full of people who had wide experience of life before entering politics, they have been replaced by professionals who make their livelihood out of politics. The same could be said of Britains European neighbors.

May isn't alone as a national leader flailing to get ahead of a crisis. Frances former president, Francois Hollande, left office with historically low poll ratings, and the worst score of any French leader since such surveys were first conducted more than three decades ago.

During the 2015 terror attacks in Paris targeting the staff of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, a Jewish supermarket, and later a concert hall and restaurants his popularity briefly rose above 30 percent, receiving praise for his reaction. But the bump was short-lived as more terrorist attacks rattled the country.

Little room for maneuver

Often a common touch is all that is needed to ensure a leader comes out of a crisis unscathed. Italys Matteo Renzi received plaudits for his reaction to devastating earthquakes in central Italy in 2016 that left nearly 300 people dead. Then prime minister, Renzi moved quickly to order a national plan to try to improve building standards and was quick to visit the stricken zone, embracing an exhausted fireman and sympathizing with survivors and relatives of those killed.

Italys La Stampa newspaper noted at the time, Renzi has understood more than anyone that this earthquake involves him and exposes him personally. The quake calls for a strong demonstration of leadership.

The media broadly praised Renzis talents as a skilled communicator with his emotional intelligence and words that connected.

With the rise of populist, often extremist, political parties and movements threatening Europes established parties, leaders have little room for maneuver. With ever-quickening news cycles, the hours immediately following a terror attack or a disaster are crucial - connecting with the public, issuing calming statements, channeling grief are as key as managing behind-the-scenes.

May appears to have heeded the criticism. In the aftermath of the Westminster Bridge attack in March, there was no word from her for six hours. But Monday she issued a statement within four hours of a van attack that deliberately targeted Muslims, speaking to the country on television, and visiting the Finsbury Park mosque to meet with faith leaders.
A court ruling to not extradite eight Turkish soldiers who fled to Greece following the failed coup attempt last year must be respected, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said on Monday.

His comments came at a joint news conference with his Turkish counterpart Binali Yildirim in Athens.

"The Greek justice system has ruled on this issue ... and this decision must be fully respected," Tsipras said in response to a question.

Turkey alleges the men were involved in efforts to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last July and has repeatedly demanded they be sent back.

The soldiers fled to Greece in a military helicopter last year as the coup against Erdogan unfolded.

Greek courts have blocked two extradition requests by Ankara, drawing an angry rebuke from Turkey and highlighting the often strained relations between the NATO allies, who remain at odds over issues from territorial disputes to ethnically-split Cyprus.

"We would like Greece to extradite those who clearly staged a coup against our nation," Yildirim said. "We respect the judiciary's decision, but we do not want these putschists to strike a blow to Turkish-Greek relations," he said.

Monday's meeting was held against the backdrop of a fresh reunification bid in Cyprus, divided since a Turkish invasion in 1974 triggered by a brief Greek-inspired coup.

The two countries and Britain will participate in peace talks along with the two estranged Cypriot sides in Switzerland on June 28. Mediators are seeking an accord on security arrangements in a post-settlement Cyprus, if the sides agree on a peace deal.

Turkey has some 30,000 troops in northern Cyprus, a contentious point for Greek Cypriots who want their withdrawal.

Yildirim said Greece and Turkey had decided to "contribute in every positive way" to a Cyprus settlement.

"The solution of the Cyprus issue should guarantee the security and future of Turkish and Greek people living on the island," he said.

Under a 1960 treaty, Britain, Turkey and Greece can intervene in Cyprus in the event of a breakdown of constitutional order. Greek Cypriots want the system dismantled and a withdrawal of troops, while Turkish Cypriots want some Turkish guarantees to continue.
Islamic State fighters defended their remaining stronghold in the Old City of Mosul, moving stealthily along narrow back alleys and slipping from house to house through holes in walls as U.S.-backed Iraqi forces slowly advanced.

The intensity of fighting was lower than on Sunday, when Iraqi forces announced the start of the assault on the Old City, a Reuters visuals team reported from near the front lines.

The historic district, and a tiny area to its north, are the only parts of the city still under the militants' control. Mosul used to be the Iraqi capital of the group, also known as ISIS.



"This is the final chapter" of the offensive to take Mosul, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, senior commander in Mosul of Counter Terrorism Service.



The militants are moving house to house through holes knocked through inner walls, to avoid air surveillance, said Major-General Sami al-Arithi of the Counter Terrorism Service, the elite units spearheading the fighting north of the Old City.

Now the fighting is going on from house to house inside narrow alleys and this is not an easy task, he told state TV.



The Iraqi army estimates the number of Islamic State fighters at no more than 300, down from nearly 6,000 in the city when the battle of Mosul started on October 17.

More than 100,000 civilians are trapped in the densely-populated maze of narrow alleyways making up the Old City, with little food, water or medical treatment.

"An estimated 50,000 children are in grave danger as the fighting in Mosul enters what is likely to be its deadliest phase yet," Save the Children said Sunday night in a statement.

Caliphate nears end

A U.S.-led international coalition is providing air and ground support to the campaign.

The fall of Mosul would, in effect, mark the end of the Iraqi half of the "caliphate" that Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared in a speech from a mosque in the Old City three years ago and which once covered swathes of Iraq and Syria.

The Iraqi government initially hoped to take Mosul by the end of 2016, but the campaign took longer as militants reinforced positions in civilian areas to fight back.

Islamic State is using suicide car and motorbike bombs, booby traps and sniper and mortar fire against the troops.

Hundreds of civilians fleeing the Old City have been killed in the past three weeks, as Iraqi forces could not fully secure exit corridors.

Islamic State snipers are shooting at families trying to flee on foot or by boat across the Tigris River, as part of a tactic to keep civilians as human shields, according to the United Nations.

The militants are also retreating in Syria, mainly in the face of a U.S.-backed Kurdish-led coalition. Its capital there, Raqqa, is under siege.

Baghdadi has left the fighting in Mosul and Raqqa to field commanders, becoming effectively a fugitive in the border area between Iraq and Syria.

About 850,000 people, more than a third of the pre-war population of the northern Iraqi city, have fled, seeking refuge with friends and relatives or in camps, according to aid groups.
Jared Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to continue work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.



A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trump's international envoy, will arrive on Monday.



The official said Kushner and Greenblatt will hear from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and their senior advisers.



Trump made a personal appeal for peace during a visit to Israel last month. He has cast Middle East peace as the "ultimate deal,'' putting Kushner and Greenblatt in charge of the charting the course.



In remarks in the Middle East, Trump called on both sides to put aside the "pain and disagreements of the past.'' But he did not offer any details on how to move forward and avoided issues that have stymied all previous attempts at a peace agreement, including the status of Jerusalem, Israeli settlement construction and the Palestinians' demand for a sovereign nation.



Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama all tried and failed to achieve a peace deal.



The White House official  who was not authorized to speak publicly about the trip  said an agreement will take time, adding that there are likely to be many more visits by Kushner and Greenblatt to the region, as they seek common ground.



The Wall Street Journal first reported that Kushner was making the trip.
In a packed Istanbul courthouse the trial of 17 journalists, accused of being involved in Julys failed coup, got underway Monday. All are facing long sentences, including life if convicted.

Prosecutors allege the journalists belong to a network of followers of the U.S.-based Turkish Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen, who Turkey's government blames for the coup attempt.

Nazli Ilicak is a leading newspaper columnist who rejected the accusations, telling the court she was a supporter of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan before he came to power and spent her life opposing coups, pointing out her father was a senior minister who had been jailed following a 1960 military takeover.

The 74-year-old Ilicak, along with Mehmet and Ahmet Altan, are among the most high-profile writers and journalists facing prosecution. All have been held for months in pre-trial detention.

The first three hours of Mondays hearing was taken up reading the more than 200-page indictment. Much of the cited evidence made no reference to the journalists activities, but focused on the cleric Gulen. Prosecutors claimed holding accounts in an alleged Gulen bank and possession of $1 bills was evidence of being part of the clerics secret network and involvement in the coup.

International criticism

Even before the case started the quality of the evidence drew withering international condemnation.

This trial marks a new level in the growing absurdity of the charges being brought against journalists, wrote the Paris-based Reporters without Borders, an organization that defends media freedom.

Many international and national human rights groups attended Mondays hearings.

"It's very concerning people are really facing serious charges, with potentially three life sentences on the basis of very, very little evidence of criminal acts, and that's really worrying, warned Amnesty Internationals Milena Buyum, speaking after attending the first day of hearings,

You have pages of pages of references of articles written by Ahmet Altan, comments he, and his brother [Mehmet] and Nazli ilicak made on a TV program on the day before the military coup. They were making political commentary entirely protected under the right of freedom of expression, added Buyum.

Human rights groups accuse Turkey of being the world's worst jailer of journalists, with more than 170 incarcerated since the post-coup crackdown. Mondays hearing is likely to only add to questions over the legitimacy of that crackdown.

A very legitimate task of trying to bring coup plotters to justice has been completely lost in a mass purge of those the government does not like claims Emma Sinclair Webb, Turkey researcher of the U.S.-based Human Rights Watch.

It has become a lawless indiscriminate prosecution, just going after anyone who in this frenzied crackdown the government thinks is good to get off the scene, to get rid of, Webb said.

Truth is the victim

But before the trial Erdogan dismissed such criticism.

"Whenever we go abroad, Western media outlets come up with the same argument, claiming there are many detained journalists in Turkey. However, according to figures from our Ministry, only two people out of 177 who identify themselves as journalists are holders of a press card. In addition, one of these persons is currently in jail for murder and the others for their involvement in terrorist organizations," Erdogan said in a speech Saturday to national media heads.

The president went on to warn there would be no let up in the crackdown.

I see no difference between those who sell their news headlines with the instructions of a terrorist organization and those who take to the mountains with a gun in their hands, said Erdogan.

Last month, Erdogan warned there would be no ending of the current state of emergency introduced after the coup, citing ongoing terrorist threats and the need to restore economic prosperity.



The Turkish presidents comments on the media drew a swift rebuke.

We got used to such statements [by Erdogan]. Let everyone say whatever they want. The jailed journalists are inside because of their journalistic activities, because they chase the news, because they chase the truth, Pinar Turenc, the head of Turkish Press Council, said.

But with some of the countrys prominent writers and journalists facing decades in jail, human rights groups warn many reporters may well now think twice about chasing the truth.

This trial [Monday] along with others has a chilling effect warns Amnesty Internationals Buyum, It sends a message to the rest of society, to other journalists expressing your opinion, being critical of power can end you up in this situation.
China is investing billions of dollars in extensive roads, railways, special industrial zones and energy infrastructure in Pakistan. The massive collaboration dubbed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, is generating interest among Pakistani students and professionals to learn Mandarin.

Li Xue Mei teaches compulsory Mandarin lessons to around 300 students ranging from grade five to middle school. She is one of the Chinese instructors at the private Roots millennium schools, where more than 7,000 children are learning the language.

They are good and they are very excited to learn Chinese, she said.

She adds that writing Chinese language characters is challenging for her students, but they quickly master it. The instructor underscores the urgency of learning Mandarin.

I think they need to learn more Chinese to learn Chinese culture and they can communicate more and they can cooperate better with Chinese people and they can work better, she said.

Chinas investment of around $60 billion under CPEC collaboration is expected to bring around 20,000 Chinese to Pakistan.

A large number of them have already moved to the country, mostly running private businesses.

Public and private institutions are establishing links with Chinese counterparts to promote exchanges in higher education and provide research opportunities on both sides of the border.

Beijing regards CPEC as a pilot flagship project of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which is a massive trade and connectivity venture aimed at linking China to the rest of Asia, Africa and Europe through both land and maritime routes.

While both countries have traditionally enjoyed close political and defense ties, officials hope the corridor will further cement relations and bring economic prosperity to Pakistan.

History bears testimony to the fact that this great friendship has stood the test of time. But in the past four years this relationship has crossed new thresholds and culminated in the establishment of CPEC, said Pakistani Foreign Policy Advisor Sartaj Aziz.

The nearly 3,000-kilometer long corridor China is building in Pakistan will allow its trade convoys to travel along the Karakoram Highway, snaking past snow-capped ranges, down to the deep-water Pakistani port of Gwadar. The freight will then be placed on ships bound for markets in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.




London police said Monday there are now 79 people presumed dead from last week's fire at a public housing building.

Commander Stuart Cundy said he expects the ongoing search and recovery effort to last "many, many weeks," as authorities work to identify the victims.

"The awful reality, as I've said before, is that due to the intensity of the fire and the devastation within Grenfell Tower that we may not be able to identify everybody that died," Cundy told reporters.

He said the important thing is to find answers for the families that have been affected.

Cundy said investigators are looking at how the building was constructed, a recent refurbishment, maintenance and fire safety measures.

Growing anger



On Sunday, London Mayor Sadiq Khan acknowledged growing public anger surrounding the fire, saying it was a result of "mistakes and neglect."

"There is a feeling from the community that they've been treated badly because some of them are poor," Khan said after a visit to a church near the burnt-out social housing block to attend a service which remembered victims of Wednesday's tragedy.

He called the fire a "preventable accident," acknowledging the anger and frustration of displaced residents of the working-class enclave in one of Britain's wealthiest districts.

The 1974 concrete building had recently been fitted with new insulation cladding. Survivors of the building claim that cheap materials for the cladding and a lack of maintenance on the building were to blame for the fatal fire.

Prime Minister Theresa May announced a public inquiry into the disaster as police investigate whether any criminal offenses were committed.
A van rammed into a group of pedestrians outside a London mosque early Monday, injuring 10 people in what British Prime Minister Theresa May called a "sickening" terrorist attack on Muslims.

The vehicle swerved into a group of people shortly after midnight as they left prayers at the Muslim Welfare House and the nearby Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, one of the biggest in Britain.

One person died at the scene, but it was not clear if he died as a result of the attack or from something else.

Police will assess the security of mosques and provide any additional resources needed ahead of celebrations marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, May announced.



"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship," she said in a televised address." And like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart, and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country. We will not let this happen."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the incident "a truly horrific terrorist attack on our city" and Prime Minister Theresa May said it was "an attack on Muslims near their place of worship."

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, the senior national coordinator for counter terrorism, clarified to reporters Monday that a man pronounced dead at the scene in northern London had already been receiving medical aid as the attack happened and that it was too early to tell if his death was related.

Authorities said officers arrested the 48-year-old driver of the van, who had been detained by members of the public at the scene.

Basu said it appeared the man was the sole attacker. He praised those who detained him, calling their restraint "commendable."

"What it proves to me is that Londoners will act together to protect themselves, but they will do so in a way that doesn't feed into terrorists' and extremists' hands," Basu said.

He added that the 10 people injured were from the Muslim community, and that investigators are "keeping an open mind" about the motive for the attack.



Harun Khan, secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said that based on accounts from witnesses the driver was "motivated by Islamophobia."

"Given we are approaching the end of the month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid with many Muslims going to local mosques, we expect the authorities to increase security outside mosques as a matter of urgency," Khan said in a statement.

A Metropolitan Police statement said that due to the nature of the attack, "extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan."

Britain, especially London, has been on edge over several recent incidents, including last month's terror bombing in Manchester and the recent vehicle attack and stabbings near London Bridge.
A two-year-long political crisis in Macedonia is entering a dangerous phase, with nationalists accused of stirring up ethnic tensions in a bid to disrupt a corruption probe.

Thousands of ethnic Macedonians have held evening protests against three ethnic Albanian parties forming a coalition government with the Social Democrats. The country's president, Gjorge Ivanov, has sided with the protesters and so far has withheld approving a coalition government that would shut out the main nationalist party.

European Union leaders and analysts say the mounting political confrontation could spin out of control, adding to increasing ethnic tensions across a destabilizing Balkans.

A group called For a United Macedonia announced Monday that it would continue to organize mass rallies in the capital, Skopje, as well as in other towns nationwide against the formation of the coalition. The group accuses the prime minister of neighboring Albania, Edi Rama, of being the true author of the coalition idea.

'People won't go home'

"The masks have fallen," Bogdan Ilievski, protest organizer and one of the group's leaders, said in a statement. "We are in favor of a united Macedonia for all, and we are against platforms written in other countries, which some of our politicians won't clearly reject. Despite their attempts to hide their true intentions, they will be met with strong resistance from the democratic public. The people won't go home."

One of the key demands of the ethnic Albanian parties is that the Albanian language be recognized as an official second language. Ivanov has called the demands for greater recognition of ethnic Albanian rights a "threat to Macedonia's sovereignty." A quarter of Macedonia's population is ethnic Albanian.

The standoff between the country's two ethnic groups worsened last December when the Macedonian nationalist party VMRO narrowly won parliamentary elections. The Albanian parties declined to enter a coalition government with VMRO, deciding instead to partner with the Social Democrats.

Social Democrats say Ivanov is stirring the ethnic dispute. They argue he is using it as a distraction to withhold giving a mandate to their leader, Zoran Zaev, because Ivanov and former Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski fear the Social Democrats will open probes into illicit wiretapping and corruption allegations that have dogged the VMRO government since 2015.

2001 agreement

A dispute over ethnic Albanian rights appeared to have been settled more than a decade ago when in 2001 a seven-month-long ethnic Albanian insurgency that left more than 100 dead ended with an agreement providing more rights for the country's ethnic minority. Progress, though, on enacting the agreement has been slow.

"To avoid jail time for his friends, President Ivanov is instead inciting ethnic clashes over a nonissue such as the use of Albanian language in public institutions,'" said Gjovalin Shkurtaj, a member of the National Academy of Science of Albania.

On Monday, Zaev and his proposed Albanian coalition partners started talks on electing a new parliamentary speaker in a bid to persuade Macedonia's president to back down. Zaev is backed by 67 out of 120 lawmakers. VMRO is demanding a new election.

It isn't often a political dispute in a country of just 2 million prompts the alarm of policymakers in Brussels or Washington, but disputes in the Balkans historically have had outsized consequences for Europe  from the 1914 assassination by a Bosnian Serb of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, the heir presumptive to the Austro-Hungarian throne, which triggered the First World War, to the post-Cold War disintegration of the Yugoslav state that kicked off a decade of internecine warfare drawing in NATO.

Earlier this month, the EU's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, visited the Macedonian capital and urged Ivanov to allow Zaev to form a government.

"I asked the president to reflect on the way forward and to reverse his decision in the interests of all citizens in this country," Mogherini told reporters.

European Union leaders already are scrambling to try to tamp down an ethnic flare-up between Serbia and its former province Kosovo. In January, Serbia's president warned he's ready to send troops to Kosovo to protect Serbian nationals there, if necessary. Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic said the two countries were on the verge of a conflict.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro

Other issues dividing parties and public opinion include whether to tilt geopolitically to the EU or Russia and border disputes. Ethnic tensions are on the rise also in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro. Bosnia remains split among Serbs, Bosnians and Croats, and the wounds of their vicious three-year-long war of the 1990s have not yet begun to heal.

The ethnic flare-ups coincide with the Kremlin's bid to expand its influence across an increasingly unstable Balkans, say analysts. From offering help with disaster relief to supplying sophisticated weaponry, including warplanes, Moscow has been on a charm offensive in a region Russia has viewed historically as in its sphere of influence.

In Serbia, Moscow's diplomatic offensive apparently is paying off. A recent Gallup Poll suggested Serbs viewed Russia as a more dependable ally than NATO, an organization Belgrade officially wants to join.

In Macedonia, a Russian hand is also being played. Moscow is accusing the West of trying to install a government in Macedonia that would help Albania pursue expansionist policies. EU leaders say Moscow is determined to stop the Balkans from integrating with NATO.

Zaev has warned that miscalculations in the current deadlock could "set fire to the country."
Malian security forces have killed at least four militants involved in an attack on a resort outside Mali's capital, Bamako, the country's Security Minister Salif Traore said Monday.



Two people were killed when gunmen stormed Le Campement Kangaba in Dougourakoro, Sunday, a resort on the edge of Bamako popular among Westerners.



Security forces rescued more than 36 residents, including 13 French citizens.

Those at the resort included people affiliated with the French military mission and the U.N. and European Union missions in the country.



There are no French troops based in Bamako, but about 2,000 French troops are based in northern Mali, fighting Islamic extremists. A 10,000 U.N. peacekeeping force in Mali is tasked to stabilize the country, a former French colony, France intervened in 2013 to push back jihadists and allied Tuareg rebels who has taken over the country's desert in the north a year earlier.

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after the attack and pledged France's full support for the country, Macron's office stated on Monday.

State Department warning



The U.S. State Department warned about a week ago of possible attacks on Western diplomatic missions and other locations in Bamako frequented by Westerners.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the assault in the final week of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Religious extremism in Mali once was limited to northern areas, although in recent years the jihadists have spread violence farther south. In November 2015, 22 people were killed in an assault on Bamako's upscale Radisson Blu hotel.

Two regional groups, al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb and al-Mourabitoun, claimed responsibility for the 2015 attack.
Even before the Organization of American States annual General Assembly formally opened Monday evening in Cancun, Mexico, Venezuelas political and economic crisis commanded center stage.

At a morning news conference, OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro denounced the erosion of legislative and judicial independence and human rights under Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. It would be prudent to resolve those problems as soon as possible," Almagro said.

Mexicos foreign minister, Luis Videgaray, announced that his country would seek backing for an OAS consensus resolution on how to stabilize the South American country.

We believe there is real deterioration of democratic conditions in Venezuela, said Videgaray, who joined Almagro at the news conference.

Anti-government protests have rocked Venezuela almost daily for more than two months, with demonstrators demanding that Maduro schedule elections, free political prisoners and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to ease widespread shortages of food, medicine and other basic goods. More than 60 people have died in the demonstrations.

The OAS had taken up Venezuelas volatility in a special session last month at its Washington headquarters but failed to reach agreement among its 34 member nations about how to proceed. Venezuela and some of its allies  mostly poor countries that have benefited from discounted Venezuelan oil  accused the OAS and the United States of trying to interfere with its domestic affairs.



With foreign delegations arriving from throughout the Western Hemisphere, security was tight at the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, the assembly site. Outside its entrance, troops with helmets and shields stood shoulder to shoulder in the Monday morning rain. The conference will continue through Wednesday.

The U.S. delegation includes Francisco Palmieri, acting assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere affairs, and Kevin Sullivan, representative to the OAS. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson last week cancelled his plans to attend, instead focusing on de-escalating Middle East tensions involving Qatar.

Almagro, at the morning news conference, said OAS needed to address regional problems including drug trafficking and illegal migration.

But Venezuela loomed large.

The OAS has to react. It has to issue a stronger statement, Venezuelan opposition lawmaker Luis Florido told VOA at the gathering. He added that it was very important for all countries in the Caribbean to understand that if Venezuela isnt stable, isnt peaceful, isnt prosperous, it will be impossible for our country to support their countries.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez wrote Saturday on her Twitter account that the U.S. State Department "deployed its ambassadors in the region to attack Venezuela. Let's go harder to defeat them in the OAS. "

In Venezuela, anti-government protesters continued demonstrating Monday in the capital city of Caracas. Lilian Tintori, wife of imprisoned opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, told a VOA reporter, We are in the street so that they do not take away the country.

VOA Spanish and Creole services contributed to this article, with Gesell Tobias, Celia Mendoza, Mitzi Macias and Jean-Pierre Leroy reporting from Cancun and Alvaro Algarra and Carolina Alcalde reporting from Caracas.
U.S. and Japanese authorities say they are investigating why personnel on a U.S. destroyer and massive Philippine-flagged merchant vessel took nearly a hour to report the deadly collision that killed seven sailors on the destroyer off the coast of Japan.

Officials from both countries say the accident was reported by both ships at approximately 2:30 a.m. Saturday, but tracking data shows the accident happening at 1:30 a.m.

The tracking data has the ACX Crystal, the container ship, making a u-turn shortly after 1:30 and returning to where it had been at 1:30.

A U.S. Seventh Fleet spokesman said the accident appears to have happened at 1:30 a.m. Saturday, not at 2:30 a.m. as the USS Fitzgerald reported.

Nanami Meguro, a spokeswoman for Nippon Yusen, the container ship's operator, said the ship's tracking information showed that it was "operating as usual" until the collision at 1:30 a.m. She did not have any information about the delay in reporting the accident.

"Because it was an emergency, the crewmembers may not have been able to place a call," she said.

The collision is being investigated by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard and Japan's Coast Guard and its Transport Safety Board.

Earlier Monday, the U.S. Navy identified the seven sailors who were found dead in the flooded sleeping compartments of the Fitzgerald.

Acting Navy Secretary Sean Stackley said, "We are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our fellow shipmates."

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin said Sunday "a significant portion of the crew was sleeping" when the destroyer and the Philippine-flagged container ship collided. He said that sea water gushed into sleeping compartments and that part of the ship's right side was caved in.

Aucoin said, "The ship suffered severe damage rapidly flooding three large compartments that included one machinery room and two berthing areas for 116 crew."

Three of the crew were injured in the accident, including the vessel's commanding officer Bryce Benson, whose cabin, Aucoin said was "directly hit, trapping the CO inside."

Aucoin said Benson, who is in stable condition with a head injury, "is lucky to be alive." The two other sailors suffered cuts and bruises.

"Unfortunately, we don't have the details regarding the conditions during the final moments, but hope that the investigation may shed some light on that matter," Aucoin said.

The victims were Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19 from Palmyra, Virginia; Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California; Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoe T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut; Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas; Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California; Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland; and Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm, Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio.

The Crystal is nearly four times the size of the destroyer. The 29,000-ton Philippine ship is 222 meters long, while the 8,315-ton Navy destroyer is 154 meters long.

None of the Crystal crew was hurt.
Beijing has reached a new peak in its bid to control the widely disputed South China Sea after pacifying rivals, keeping Washington away and building out artificial islands that are ready for military hardware.

China will be able to keep three fighter-jet regiments on the same number of islets that it has constructed in the sea, according to a June 6 Pentagon report. Chinas estimated 3,200 acres (1,294 hectares) of reclaimed land in the 3.5 million-square-kilometer sea will be used largely for military installations, a think tank forecast in March.

Joint military exercises with Russia

In another sign of tighter maritime control, Beijings official Xinhua News Agency said Sunday that a Chinese destroyer, frigate, supply ship and helicopter had joined Russian vessels for phase one of complex and lengthy joint military exercises that are starting in the South China Sea. Russia has the worlds second most powerful armed forces and China the third.

I think there is an unspoken understanding that theres no way China can be stopped, said Collin Koh, maritime security research fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. I think its a fact that China is the dominant player there other than the U.S.

"Nine-dash line" control

Chinas rise in the sea, which is claimed by five other governments, follows a year of unfettered diplomacy with those countries and a decade of landfilling some of the seas 500 tiny land forms to support infrastructure construction.

China will eventually decide what happens within its nine-dash line claim that covers more than 90 percent of the sea, said Gregory Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative of American think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies. Beijing cites historic usage as a basis for the claim.

Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam and the Philippines all call parts of the sea their own, overlapping the nine-dash line. They all value the sea for its fisheries, fossil fuel reserves and marine shipping lanes.

Total Chinese control

I think the goal here is to extend a Chinese umbrella over the entire nine-dash line, which means effectively establishing administration over all of this area that China claims, including all these waters and air space they claim historic rights over, Poling said.

So that means if youre a Southeast Asian fishermen or coast guard vessel or an oil and gas exploration vessel, you dont operate unless the Chinese let you operate," he said.

Chinese diplomacy

The Communist leadership stepped up one-on-one dialogue with the militarily weaker Southeast Asian countries after a world arbitration court ruled in July against the legal basis for the Chinese claim. Beijing offers aid in exchange for muting any protest against Chinas maritime military expansion, analysts say.

China offered the Philippines $24 billion in aid and investment last year. It has pumped Vietnams service sector with tourists while discussing maritime cooperation. Malaysia counts China as its top investor and trading partner.

US stepping back from South China Sea

Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines once looked to the United States for resistance against China. Now U.S. President Donald Trump wants Chinas help on stopping North Koreas missile and nuclear programs.

There seems to be no intention within the U.S. government in trying to craft up some form of a South China Sea strategy, Koh said.

Southeast Asian nations arent pushing for one either, said Sean King, senior vice president of New York political consultancy Park Strategies.

Theres been no coordination among the non-Chinese claimants and the only one among them that remotely has its act together on this issue, Vietnam, surely felt abandoned after America ditched the TPP, thus questioning how truly committed we are to the region, King said.

Trump exited the TPP, or Trans Pacific Partnership, in January, calling the 12-member trade deal bad for the United States.

Signs that US will show more interest

But U.S. officials have hinted this month they will eventually take a harder line on China's maritime expansion.

In May, the U.S. Navy sent a ship on a freedom of navigation operation in the South China Sea despite Beijings objections.

China's claim in the South China Sea needs to be handled peacefully and through negotiations, not by island-building and placing weaponry on the resulting dry land, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told an Asian defense conference earlier this month as quoted by the U.S. Department of Defense website.

Southeast Asian maritime claimants are keeping options open to ask Japan, India and other countries for help as needed in keeping China away, Koh said.

But todays cautious Sino-U.S. cooperation, plus the specter of a more aggressive U.S. military role in the sea, should stop China from getting aggressive toward other claimants, said Andrew Yang, secretary-general with the Chinese Council of Advanced Policy Studies think tank in Taiwan.
Qatar says it will not negotiate with neighboring countries unless they cease their economic and travel "blockade" of the Gulf state.

The countries have accused Qatar of supporting terrorism, a charge that Doha strongly denies.

We have to make it very clear for everyone, negotiations must be done in a civilized way and should have a solid basis and not under pressure or under blockade, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulraham al-Thani told reporters in the capital city of Doha.

Surrounding countries Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago, causing the worst Gulf Arab crisis in years with no clear end in sight.

Until now we didnt see any progress about lifting the blockade, which is the precondition for anything to move forward, al-Thani said.

Saudi Arabia first took action on June 5, pulling its ambassador out of Qatar and forcing Qatari nationals to move back to their home country by June 19. Saudi Arabia also closed Qatars only land border and banned its planes from using Saudi airspace.

Al-Thani claims that anything that relates to the affairs of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council is subject to negotiation. The council is made up of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.

According to al-Thani, Qatar has not received any demands from the Gulf States or any other countries.
A roadside bomb blast in Thailand has killed six soldiers and wounded four more in the insurgency-plagued south.

Police say the bomb was planted on a dirt road in Pattani province and exploded Monday as the soldiers were on a routine patrol.

The Muslim-majority border region has been racked by violence for over a decade as ethnic Malay insurgents battle the government of Buddhist-majority Thailand for more autonomy.

There has been no claim of responsibility for the blast.
Protest marches on consecutive days in the Macedonian capital, Skopje, brought tens of thousands of people into the streets this week, some to call for the governments resignation and others to show their support. The flare-up of political strife is in part related to the frustrations of all the Balkan states at the long timeframe for their possible membership in the European Union. And Macedonia has the additional problem that Greece insists it change its name, which is the same as a Greek province.



Anti-government protesters were out on Sunday, bringing together members of several of Macedonias ethnic groups in a call for the prime minister to resign. The opposition accuses the government of electoral fraud, repressing journalists, and other abuses, including covering up a murder.

The next day, Prime Minister Nicola Gruevski spoke at a similar-sized pro-government rally. Supporters said last years election results should be respected and the prime minister should continue his nine-year rule.

But some experts say although Gruevski was elected and re-elected, he has become increasingly autocratic, partly enabled by the European Unions imposition of an extremely slow process for Macedonia and other Balkan countries to join.

The government has become very comfortable in its position because it hasnt been subject to the reforms that would have to have taken place had it moved closer to NATO or the EU, said James Ker-Lindsay, at the London School of Economics. And is actually starting to move against the idea of EU membership, and I think that this is what makes it so very risky.

Speaking via Skype, the former EU special representative for Macedonia, Erwan Fouere, is even more critical of the government. The current regime has lost whatever credibility it had and any legitimacy to remain in government. And I think the only way that a peaceful process can be restored is by the government resigning and making way for a transition process, he said.

Some of the opposition protesters have set up a tent city to demand just that. But their prospects for success are not clear. Ker-Lindsay said they are not likely to get as much attention as their counterparts in Ukraine did last year. The country just doesnt sit on that fault line between East and West in the way that Ukraine has," he stated.

Still, Ker-Lindsay ssid the EUs policy has created an opening for Russia to try to re-establish some influence in a region it controlled until 1989. But Erwan Fouere is not too concerned. There is no strategic interest for Russia in this, apart from annoying the West and suggesting that the West are not fulfilling their commitments toward the Balkans as they should, Fouere said.

The commitment is to bring the Balkan countries into the European Union. The delay is related to the need for reforms and concerns about immigration into current EU countries.

Ker-Lindsay ssid the EU has to balance its concerns with a strong message that the Balkan states will become members, though likely not in the next several years.
The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to consider whether state lawmakers can be too partisan when they set the geographic boundaries of federal congressional districts, giving themselves an unfair advantage over their political opponents.

The country's top court said Monday that later in the year it would consider a dispute in the midwestern state of Wisconsin, where Republican lawmakers drew maps that gave them a political advantage over Democrats.

A three-judge panel, in a 2-1 decision, struck down the Republican-drawn maps, ruling in favor of Democrats who contested the legality of the political boundaries. The lower court ruled the districts had to be reshaped in time for the next round of congressional contests in November 2018.

But the Wisconsin state government appealed the ruling, leading to the decision by the Supreme Court to hear the dispute.

The Supreme Court has frequently considered whether political boundaries work to the disadvantage of racial minorities in attempts to win representation in Congress. But the court has only infrequently dealt with the issue of deliberate partisan shaping of political boundaries. Rulings in 1986 and 2004 left state lawmakers with no clear guidelines on what was permissible.

In the United States, congressional district boundaries are usually reset by state legislatures every 10 years, after the latest national census, with each of the 50 states getting at least one seat in the House of Representatives and each of the 435 seats divided by roughly equal population.

Political parties that have control of the state legislatures have the upper hand in setting the congressional boundaries and often try to shape them geographically to give themselves maximum political advantage in electing their candidates. The question in the Wisconsin case is whether Republicans set reasonable boundaries or unfairly disadvantaged rival Democrats.

A definitive Supreme Court ruling would set standards for redistricting throughout the country.
It is estimated Uganda has one doctor for every 24,000 citizens. The nurse-to-population ratio is not much better, one for every 11,000 people, and much of that staff is concentrated in urban areas.

Now add 1.2 million refugees.

The massive influx of South Sudanese refugees into northern Uganda during the past year has strained the countrys already overburdened health care system. Health centers near refugee settlements in the countrys Adjumani district are overwhelmed, especially those providing maternity care.

The United Nations says Uganda took in more refugees than any other part of the world in 2016 as civilians fled conflict and hunger in South Sudan, and the influx continues.

Refugee Ester Ponne Charles arrived in northern Uganda eight months ago. She was pregnant and experienced complications during childbirth.

Like myself, I was operated. If you do not have money, you may lose your life and the child too. Because there they want money. Without money, even medicine, you buy even the gloves yourself, everything in the hospital. So those are the challenges we are facing. Those ones who cannot even afford any coin, so they will just end up losing their lives, Ponne Charles said.

Aid agencies and the government have worked to set up temporary health center structures in the refugee settlements to serve the huge female population of reproductive age, particularly pregnant women.

Severe medical staff shortages

One refugee settlement called Maaji now hosts 15,000 refuges, but has no doctor and only eight medical officers and nurses.

Tako Stephen is the Senior Clinician at Maaji Health Center 3.

We are unable to conduct planned deliveries here because of the set-up of the place. The place is very small. We only conduct emergency deliveries and yet there are very many pregnant mothers here. So they have to walk all the way from here up to Maaji two for deliveries, said Stephen.

Some of the referrals are also made to Mungula Health Center 3, where the senior nursing officer, Odaru Judith, says deliveries have more than doubled from 29 to 75 a month.

The health center only has six midwives.

Our general ward is very small. It has only 10 beds, but the number of deliveries we have in a day, average is five, and when you take the labor room, it is so squeezed and small that it only fits one bed and at times you have three deliveries at a time, so making it very difficult. You will not even have a place where you can squeeze at least a carpet for a mother to deliver, Judith said.

At the start of 2017, the government and U.N. agencies earmarked $1 million for reproductive health care in the refugee settlements, but the U.N. Population Fund says they actually need four times as much.
This week, Uganda welcomes U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other high-level international guests and donors for the two day Refugee Solidarity Conference (Thursday 6/22 and Friday 6/23). The conference in Kampala hopes to raise $8 billion to support refugees in Uganda for the next four years.

At the border separating Uganda from South Sudan, exhausted women and children arrive daily, hungry and dehydrated. Aid workers give them fortified biscuits.

Uganda hosts 1.2 million refugees from at least five African countries. Nearly one million have fled the conflict in South Sudan, and most have arrived in the past year. The local food supply is stretched to the limit.

The U.N. World Food Program was forced to cut food rations to refugees last month, says WFP country representative El Khidir Daloum.

"Yes, we have been forced to reduce the distribution for the month of May by 50 percent, but that is mainly due to the physical availability of food and arrival of food in the country, he said.

Funding is also inadequate.

The United Nations and 57 other aid organizations working in northern Uganda, appealed for $1.4 billion to provide food and shelter this year, but only 18 percent of the funds has been received.

Amnesty International researchers visited the refugee settlements in Uganda and Deputy Regional Director Michelle Kagari says the refugees have already suffered greatly.

"There is one woman who has nine children, her and her children witness their father being killed, not to mention the trauma of fleeing the Equatoria's," she said. When they arrived in Uganda, because there is no capacity for them to get additional support, she is now supposed to build a shelter herself, find food for the children, deal with the trauma of the children."

Uganda is known for its progressive approach to refugees, there are no refugee camps, but settlements where refugees build round mud huts and get small plots of land to farm. They are also allowed to work in Uganda.

But the massive influx from South Sudan, as many as 2,000 people a day during the past year, is taking a toll on the host communities.

Uganda is hosting this weeks Refugee Solidarity Summit in an urgent plea for help says Uganda State Minister for Refugees Musa Ecweru.

"A district that was supposed to host 300,000 people is now hosting 600 to 700,000 people. In that district, they are competing for trees that are used as fuel for energy," said Ecweru. "They are competing for drugs that are supposed to be used by the host communities in the health centers. ... So there are so many things that are under pressure, so we want the international community to support us and lift the pressure."

Food security is a particular concern given the hunger and famine in South Sudan and drought in East Africa.

At the Maaji refugee settlement 25-year-old Jennifer Fonne is eight months pregnant and struggling to have two meals a day.

As you can see, children are crying here because of hunger, we are not getting anything to buy for our children food. As I have three children, but food is not enough for us. We are just eating green vegetables, but no proteins, she said.

Back at he border, the scene is the same. More families arrive, sweating in the scorching heat, carrying their belongings.

The government says Uganda will not shut its doors to people in need, but the country cannot bear this burden alone.
A new report has found that more people than ever before have become refugees or are internally displaced worldwide because of war, violence, and persecution.

The U.N. refugee agencys Global Trends Report, released on the eve of World Refugee Day, June 20, shows an unprecedented 65.6 million people were determined forcibly displaced at the end of 2016, an increase of 300,000 over the previous year.

Nearly two-thirds of this total are people who have been forcibly displaced within their own country. Refugee numbers worldwide have reached 22.5 million, which the report notes is the highest ever seen.

The UNHCR reports that one in every 113 people worldwide is either a refugee or is forcibly displaced within his or her own country. Of the 65.6 million people that were found displaced last year, the report notes that 10.3 million were newly displaced, which equates to one person becoming uprooted every three seconds.

While people continued to flee in record numbers, the report found that last year around one half million refugees returned home and about 6.5 million internally displaced people went back to their places of origin although many did so in less than ideal circumstances and facing uncertain prospects.

Filippo Grandi, High Commissioner for Refugees said, It is an extremely moveable situation, an extremely dynamic situation, which reflects in turn conflicts that continue to affect mostly and primarily and very violently civilians.

Syria tops list

Data show that the Syrian conflict has generated the largest numbers of displaced people worldwide, with 12 million people, or nearly two-thirds of the population, either internally displaced or living as refugees, mainly in five neighboring countries  Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Egypt.

Turkey continues to be for the third consecutive year, the largest hosting country, said Grandi. But, Lebanon, another one of the neighboring countries, is the country that has the highest per capita ratio compared to the local population in terms of the number of refugees.

The report notes Afghanistan and Iraq have the second and third largest numbers of forcibly displaced people and that South Sudan has the worlds fastest growing refugee and displacement crisis.

The report, which records statistics at the end of 2016 indicates [that] 1.4 million refugees from South Sudan [are] in neighboring countries and almost two million internally displaced people, said Grandi. Those figures are probably higher. We certainly have counted at least half a million more in the first semester of this year in terms of refugees.

He added that most of the South Sudanese have sought refuge in neighboring Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African Republic.

The report notes that most refugees  84 percent  are in developing countries, half of them children. While the worlds poorest nations shoulder the greatest burden of the global refugee crisis, the report found that most of the 2.8 million asylum claims made in 2016 were lodged in rich countries.

The UNHCR said the largest recipient of new asylum applications was Germany with more than 722,400 registered last year. The United States came in second with 262,000 newly filed applications.

The report called the large number of unaccompanied children asking for asylum a growing and unsettling development.

Tragically, 75,000 asylum claims were received from children travelling alone or separated from their parent. The UNHCR report added that even this number probably underestimated the true figure.

Declining aid contributions

High Commissioner Grandi said that one of his greatest concerns was the declining contributions of the international community to meet the needs of this burgeoning refugee and displacement crisis.

For example, he said only 23 percent of the U.N.s $8 billion appeal for the Syrian crisis has been received. This is very low for mid-year.

He told VOA I only hope this is a matter of pledges delayed by different factors and not because the Syrians are forgotten.

He noted that the United States was the largest donor to refugee programs and that Washington had contributed $1.5 billion to UNHCR last year.

I think this year the budget will be fundamentally stable. There is uncertainty regarding the budget of next year, he said. It is not just in respect to refugee aid, but it is in general regarding foreign aid.

He said that the UNHCR had added its voice to many others, including the U.S. establishment to say that foreign aid is an important tool of international stability, of positive influence, and it is a humanitarian tool that saves lives.

So, for all these reasons, he added, we hope that the levels of U.S. aid globally, including refugee aid, will be considered at the appropriate levels.

The Trump administration has proposed cutting the $30 billion foreign-aid budget by 31 percent next year. Although this amount is less than one percent of the U.S. $3.8 trillion Federal Budget, polls show Americans believe foreign aid takes up a much larger share.
Australia announced Tuesday it has temporarily suspended airstrikes by its forces in Syria.

The move comes days after a U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian jet, and Syrian ally Russia responded by threatening to treat planes from a U.S.-led coalition operating in the skies over Syria as targets.

Australia is part of the coalition that began airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Syria in September 2014.

A statement from Australia's Defense Ministry said it would monitor the "air situation in Syria" and make a decision on resuming airstrikes there "in due course." The ministry said strikes in neighboring Iraq, also part of the U.S.-led coalition campaign, will go on.

The U.S. responded forcefully Monday to the Russian threat.

Were going to do what we can to protect our interests, White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters Monday, defending the decision to shoot down a Syrian SU-22 jet that had bombed coalition partnered forces near the Syrian town of Tabqah.

The Syrian regime  needs to understand that we will keep the right of self-defense of coalition forces aligned against ISIS, he said. The spokesman made clear, however, that the United States would continue to work with partners to counter the threat of the Islamic State in Syria.

Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov called the shoot down an act of aggression. A ministry statement issued in Moscow warned that coalition planes would be viewed as targets, and said a hotline for preventing accidental military engagement would be shut off.

Spicer said Monday that Washington would work to keep lines of communication open to, in his words, de-conflict potential issues.

Earlier, General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, said officials are trying to re-establish the communications link to prevent potentially deadly accidents, and that the de-confliction efforts have worked well in the past.

The Russian Federation has indicated that their purpose in Syria, like ours, is to defeat ISIS," Dunford told reporters. "And well see if thats true here in the coming hours, because all of our operations in and around Raqqa and southern Syria are designed specifically to get after ISIS.

"We have agreed in the past, that is we and the Russian Federation pro-regime forces, that operations that the coalition were conducting in Syria were effectively degrading ISIS capability, and will work to restore that de-confliction chain in the next few hours," Dunford said.

The Russian military alleged that in Sundays incident, "the command of the coalition forces did not use the established communication channel for preventing incidents in Syrian airspace."

Frants Klintsevich, deputy head of the defense committee in Russias upper house of parliament, said the defense ministry statement does not mean there will be war with the U.S. in Syria, but rather that Moscow will not accept attacks on its Syrian allies.

Earlier, Syrian forces attacked coalition fighters in Ja'Din, wounding a number of fighters and driving them from the town. Coalition aircraft stopped the pro-regime forces from advancing on Ja'Din.

The coalition said it contacted Russian commanders to set up a "de-confliction line" to prevent the fighting from worsening.

The dispute over the Syrian attack on the U.S.-backed fighters and the American response came as Iran launched ballistic missiles at Islamic State strongholds in eastern Syria in retaliation for a pair of attacks by extremists in Tehran earlier this month that killed 17 people.
Seven smugglers involved in the illegal ivory trade from Uganda to Singapore have been arrested following an 18-month investigation by African and Asian law enforcement officials, a counter-trafficking organization said.

The operation netted a top Kenyan customs officer and shipping agents who facilitated the covert ivory pipeline, highlighting progress in Africa on cross-border collaboration by law enforcement agencies, according to Freeland, the anti-trafficking organization that supported the operation.

Tens of thousands of African elephants are killed for their tusks every year, leading to a drop of 20 to 30 percent in their numbers on the continent over the last decade.

However, environmentalists say law enforcement agencies are increasingly disrupting smuggling networks.

"These arrests reveal how the smuggling has been orchestrated," Freeland chairman Kraisak Choonhavan, a prominent Thai politician, said in a statement released over the weekend.

Freeland has been training a network of African investigators and facilitating cooperation with Asian counterparts.

Those arrested were linked to a seizure in March 2014 of a ton of ivory in Singapore. That shipment was believed to have originated in Uganda and been shipped out of Kenya.

"We hope the investigation will now continue in Asia to find the big buyers who are sponsoring the killing of elephants. Africa is now ahead of Asia in going beyond seizures and making meaningful arrests of wildlife criminals," Choonhavan said.

Although the operation was focused on ivory smuggling, Freeland said a wildlife trafficking kingpin on Interpol's wanted "Red Notice" list who was involved in smuggling pangolin scales had been caught and extradited to Tanzania.

Pangolin scales are used in traditional Chinese medicine, making the creatures one of the most widely trafficked wild animals in the world.
A van collided with pedestrians outside a London mosque early Monday, injuring 10 people in what the city's police commander said was "quite clearly an attack on Muslims".

We have a number of people in hospital whose lives are turned upside down," Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick told reporters Monday. "We treat this as a terrorist attack and we, in the Met, are as shocked as anybody in this local community or across the country, at what has happened.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the incident "a truly horrific terrorist attack on our city" and Prime Minister Theresa May said it was "an attack on Muslims near their place of worship."

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, the senior national coordinator for counter terrorism, clarified to reporters Monday that a man pronounced dead at the scene in northern London had already been receiving medical aid as the attack happened and that it was too early to tell if his death was related.

Authorities said officers arrested the 48-year-old driver of the van, who had been detained by members of the public at the scene.

Basu said it appeared the man was the sole attacker. He praised those who detained him, calling their restraint "commendable."

"What it proves to me is that Londoners will act together to protect themselves, but they will do so in a way that doesn't feed into terrorists' and extremists' hands," Basu said.

He added that the 10 people injured were from the Muslim community, and that investigators are "keeping an open mind" about the motive for the attack.



Harun Khan, secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said that based on accounts from witnesses the driver was "motivated by Islamophobia."

"Given we are approaching the end of the month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid with many Muslims going to local mosques, we expect the authorities to increase security outside mosques as a matter of urgency," Khan said in a statement.

A Metropolitan Police statement said that due to the nature of the attack, "extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan."

Britain, especially London, has been on edge over several recent incidents, including last month's terror bombing in Manchester and the recent vehicle attack and stabbings near London Bridge.
The Movement for Democratic Change led by Morgan Tsvangirai says the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) should immediately recall a draft statutory instrument that will make it mandatory for all prospective voters to produce proof of residence.

In a statement, the MDC-T said, It is a fact that the majority of urban dwellers are lodgers and tenants who will not easily have access to proof of residence such as utility bills  For the record, the MDC would like to state that it is one of the several stakeholders that strenuously argued against the planned move to make it mandatory for people to produce written proof of residence before they can be permitted to register as voters.

In fact, the party wrote a letter to the ZEC chairperson, Rita Makarau, on April 20, 2017, making our party position on this crucial issue abundantly clear. We advocate for a system whereby people must be allowed to register as voters as long as they can affirm their places of residence during the voter registration exercise.

The party claimed that the ruling Zanu PF party is already sensing a crushing and humiliating defeat in next years elections and as a result it is trying to influence ZEC to make it extremely difficult for most people to register to vote.

It is trite that dictatorships thrive on voter apathy as well as on voter demotivation and intimidation. The MDC will not allow ZEC to unconstitutionally usurp the right of all eligible Zimbabweans to register as voters.

The MDC-T urged all Zimbabweans, especially the youth, to register to vote in the next elections.

The party noted that a democratic, free and fair election entails that all eligible voters, without exception, are not deliberately and/or unnecessarily disenfranchised through a cumbersome and difficult process of registering as voters.

In terms of the Electoral (Voter Registration) Regulations, 2017, Section 5 stipulates that for the purposes of registering as a voter, a voter shall be required to provide a residential address to be filled in on the claim form for registration and affirm, before the voter registration officer that he or she resides at the address given, or the address so given is the intended address to be used by the voter for purposes of registration.
Among the people socializing in a tavern in Alexandra township in Johannesburg is Karabo Sathekge, who asked that VOA not give her real name. She is a slight, attractive 19-year-old in a veil of an orange dress, defying the winter chill.

Sathekge often meets one of her partners here. He is more than twice her age.

Sathekge explains that sex with older men is sometimes "rough," and always without a condom.

South Africa has almost 7 million people living with HIV and manages the globe's largest antiretroviral program, keeping about 4 million people alive with the drugs. At the South African National AIDS Conference in Durban this week, specialists voiced their concern about the spiking rates of infections among young women, a trend reflected throughout the continent.

"What does it tell you about the lack of knowledge about HIV, 20, 30 years into the HIV epidemic?" said Mark Heywood, the director of the Section 27 social justice movement. "We have seen, shockingly, a decline in knowledge of HIV amongst young people. It is like we have taken our foot off the accelerator, in certain respects."

Heywood says more than 200 young women, ages 15 to 24, are infected with HIV each day in South Africa.

In 2015, that demographic accounted for the largest segment of new HIV infections in South Africa and a disproportionate number of new cases in the region. Adolescent and young women made up a quarter of the new cases in sub-Saharan Africa, according to UNAIDS most recent global report.

UNAIDS says adolescent and young women in Africa are at "particularly high risk" for a variety of reasons, such as poverty, lack of education and violence.

Like Sathekge, many poor young women in South Africa have "transactional" sexual relationships with older men who have jobs and money. The men buy them food, clothes and gifts.

Health care workers in South Africa say transactional sex is a key driver of the new infections among young women in the country.

Heywood is at the forefront of protests to demand the government make a new weapon against HIV infection available to young women. That weapon is a combination of antiretroviral drugs called "pre-exposure prophylaxis," or Prep. Taken correctly, the pill can prevent people from getting HIV.

Heywood says the state could afford to give the drugs to young women for free.

"If you have literally tens of billions of rand being stolen every year out of different government departments, that is money that could be generating programs that reduce the vulnerability of young women," he said. "But there has to be a [political] will."

South Africa's health minister, Aaron Motsoaledi, says he plans to provide Prep to young women in about two to three years, after educating them about the pill. It must be taken at about the same time every day, and ideally is used with condoms.

However, Heywood says Motsoaledi's "innovative" policies to prevent new HIV infections are likely to stall, as Motsoaledi has been politically isolated after publicly opposing President Jacob Zuma over Zuma's alleged corruption.
Last week, police in Mozambique warned bald men in the country to be vigilant, after at least two such men were killed for the use of their body parts in witchcraft rituals.

According to local experts, widespread poverty is as much to blame for the killings as mystical belief.

Sociologist Book Sambo, who lectures at Mozambique's Eduardo Mondlane University, said the attacks must be seen in a context where people are desperate to improve their lives, and willing to use "magic" in hopes of changing their luck.

"This should not be seen as isolated from our social problems  the low level of education, people with socio-economic difficulties ... the difficulty of getting a job," he said in an interview with VOA's Portuguese to Africa Service.

Police issued their warning after arresting two suspects in connection with the deaths of two bald men in Zambezia province. One of the victims was decapitated and both were mutilated.

According to police, the suspects said they killed the men so traditional healers  critics call them witch doctors  could use their organs for rituals that supposedly bring prosperity to the healers' clients.

"Their motivations come from superstition and culture as the local community thinks bald men are rich and that their parts can be used to enrich others," said police spokesman Inacio Dina.

Three other bald men were reportedly killed this month in the Morrumbala district of Zambezia, although police have yet to directly link those deaths to witchcraft.

Healers association denies involvement

The leader of an association of traditional healers, Fernando Mate, told VOA Portuguese that members of his organization do not kill bald men in order to perform rituals.

But Mate said he could not guarantee others might take such action. "People take chances to gain some money," he said.

Until recently, albinos were the primary group targeted by hunters hoping to profit from witchcraft  or, more accurately, the widespread belief in it.

A United Nations expert said last year that local activists had recorded more than 100 attacks on albinos in Mozambique since 2014, and that the real number was likely higher. People lacking pigment in their skin, eyes and hair are often attacked in Tanzania, Malawi and other African countries for the same reason.

Groups such as Human Rights Watch have pressured governments in the region to crack down on crime rings and witch doctors believed to be behind the killings.
Thokozani Khupe, vice president of the Movement for Democratic Change led by Morgan Tsvangirai, says all parties in Zimbabwe are expected to approve a new voters roll set to be compiled by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) using biometric voters kits sourced from China.

Addressing thousands of people drawn from various opposition parties attending a rally in Bulawayo on Saturday organized by the National Electoral Reform Agenda (NERA), Khupe said the new voters register should be only be used after the parties have given it a nod and signed an agreement allowing ZEC to use it in the 2018 general elections.

All parties should be given an electronic version of the voters roll so that they can verify the names on the register. This will give parties a chance to check if their party followers are included on the voters roll. When all political parties agree that the voters roll is correct then the political parties will inform ZEC that they are happy with it.

Thereafter all contesting political parties should sign it, page by page, so that if someone goes to a polling station and his or her name is missing then we will stop that election, she said amid applause from the crowd.

She said this is one of the ways of monitoring the registration of voters through the use of peoples physical features like eyes and other body parts, a process known as biometric registration.

Some Zimbabwean have already attacked the State Procurement Board for selecting a Chinese company to provide biometric voters registration kits worth millions of dollars. China is one of Zimbabwes all-weather allies.

The previous voters roll, according to some political parties and independent observers, had thousands of dead peoples names, resulting in claims that the ruling party was using it to rig elections.

President Robert Mugabes government has over the years dismissed these allegations as unfounded though the Registrar Generals Office, which used to register voters, has acknowledged that the old register had names of dead people.
In 2003, Roger Thurow was a journalist assigned to cover the looming famine in Ethiopia. Upon arriving in the country, he was given a warning by a World Food Program worker who told him that looking into the eyes of someone dying of hunger becomes a disease of the soul.



Thurow soon found that to be all too true. While visiting the emergency feeding tents he met a little boy named Hagirso who was five years old and weighed under 14 kilograms when his dad carried him in from their village.

He was severely malnourished and basically disappearing, Thurow recalled. That haunted me. Hagirso, the whole setting, everything that was going on in the emergency feeding tents and just the magnitude of the famine. It was the first famine of the 21st century. Whats wrong with us that we brought famine into this new millennium of ours?



Ten years later, Thurow returned to see what had happened to Hagirso. He found the boy was physically stunted, only coming up slightly above an adults waist and was cognitively stunted, learning at a first grade level.



You just have to wonder, what might they have accomplished? What might they have achieved for all of us in the world, were they not stunted? he said. The lost chance of greatness for one child becomes a lost chance for all of us.



On Thursday, Thurow was one of three experts testifying before the U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee meeting on the ongoing food crisis in Yemen and the African nations of Nigeria, South Sudan and Somalia. Labeled the worst food crisis since World War II, an estimated 28 million people now need humanitarian assistance.



In all four countries, drought or climate challenges are being exacerbated by war.



The bottom line and the biggest takeaway is that conflict is driving these famines, said Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, the chairman of the subcommittee. The farmers of Africa are extraordinary. They can grow anything, plus they have this wonderful arable land that goes unplanted because of conflict. And the humanitarian help cannot get to them because of the soldiers and the militias. There has to be an all-out effort to end this war.



Aid funding cuts



In May, the U.S. House of Representatives successfully added $1 billion to the omnibus appropriations bill specifically to address the famine through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).



Many, however, voiced concerns over a budget blueprint proposed by President Donald Trump that would cut USAID funding by 31 percent and consolidate it within the Department of State.



The presidents budget that was introduced into the Congress worries me because they propose to cut a lot of hunger programs, not only overseas, but even in our own country, said Tony P. Hall, executive director emeritus at the Alliance to End Hunger. And so it worries me because it will hurt. I think Congress will be against a lot of those cuts, but were very concerned.



Smith said the dire warnings about proposed cuts to USAID and foreign assistance are overblown. I dont think the budget cuts are going anywhere, he said. Ive been in Congress 37 years. The next budget that I see arriving on Capitol Hill that becomes anything but a talking point will be the first. He added of Congress: Were the ones who write the budget.



Julien Schopp, director for humanitarian practice at InterAction, who testified at the hearing, said the future uncertainty of U.S. funding for humanitarian relief offers the ideal time for other countries to step up.



The humanitarian need, if you look at the global picture, is growing, growing, growing in terms of dollar amounts and number of people that need to be assisted, he said. So we need to talk more to the Gulf countries, talk more to China, to talk more to non-traditional donors. Because at some point its not going to be possible for the U.S. and Europe to continue carrying that load.



More help needed



Smith agreed, saying hed like to see U.S. partners do more to address the food crisis. We ask that more of our international partners and friends kick in far more money than they have. Were glad theyre helpful, but they could be more helpful, he said.



During his recent trip to Uganda and South Sudan, Smith had the opportunity to meet with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. During the meeting, he handed the Ugandan leader a copy of Roger Thurows book, The First 1,000 Days. The book argues that children must be protected from malnutrition, disease and other ailments for the first 1,000 days of their lives to ensure a bright future for themselves, their communities and the world.



My message to all of Africa, all the world including the U.S., is: get the first 1,000 days right, protect mother and baby, supplement it with food and nutrition and supplementation and vitamins; youll have a healthier planet because all of us will be that much stronger, Smith said.


A combine drives over stalks of wheat during the harvest in Dixon, Ill. Combines can make short work of the work of harvesting. (Jim Young/Reuters)

Why are some foods cheap and other foods expensive?

Hint: Its (mostly) not subsidies. Although theyve certainly played a role in shaping our food supply such that we have huge quantities of just a few crops  a recipe for low prices  the discrepancy that seems to be at issue is the one between commodity crops such as corn and soy, and the fruits and vegetables that everyones trying to get us to eat more of. Theres a factor there that plays a much larger role than subsidies, and it doesnt get much airtime.

[Why dont taxpayers subsidize the foods that are better for us?]

Its machines.

In general, if you can use machines instead of people, you can produce a crop for less. But lets not talk in general. Lets talk about tomatoes.

The beautiful, ripe, in-season tomato will set you back up to $5 a pound, but you can buy a 28-ounce can of perfectly tasty tomatoes for as little as a dollar. The latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture have beefsteak tomatoes at $3.16 per pound and canned tomatoes at 92 cents per pound.

A big part of that difference is machines.

The fresh tomatoes we buy are harvested by hand, which is still the only way to guarantee the blemish- and bruise-free specimens that picky American consumers demand. The canned tomatoes we buy are harvested by machine, because a few blemishes and bruises dont much matter when the tomatoes are going to be processed.



Fresh tomatoes are harvested by hand. Thats why they can cost as much as $5 a pound. (Daniel Acker/Bloomberg News)

This wasnt always the case. Until about 50 years ago, all tomatoes were harvested by hand because there was no such thing as a tomato harvester. (The price difference between canned and fresh wasnt quite as stark then, either: In 1955, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fresh tomatoes were 27.4 cents a pound, compared to 15.1 cents for canned.) But an agronomist and an engineer at the University of California at Davis set out to change that. The engineer, Coby Lorenzen, designed a machine to automate the harvest, while the agronomist, Jack Hanna, developed a less-delicate variety of tomato that ripened uniformly and could be easily plucked from the plant, qualities that made machine harvesting feasible.

[We think fresh is best. But to fight food waste, we need to think again.]

The first few iterations of the harvester, introduced in the 1960s and refined in the decades following, reduced the labor required by 92 percent, to about 24 minutes per ton. (Tomatoes for processing also dont require the labor and materials needed to be boxed, a step that eats up over a third of the price that farmers get for tomatoes, according to a study done at UC-Davis.)

Other things happened, too. In the first decade of machine harvest, yields increased from 20 tons to 33 tons per acre. Fewer workers had jobs, of course, but the ones who did earned more money (by 22 percent) than field workers, because operating a harvester was considered more skilled labor.

A modern tomato harvester costs nearly $500,000 and can harvest 70 tons per hour. Its one reason your canned tomatoes cost less than a third of your fresh tomatoes.



Tomatoes destined for a can dont need to be handled as carefully, so they can be harvested by machine. That is part of the reason that they cost far less per pound than fresh tomatoes. (James M. Thresher/For The Washington Post)

Thats just one crop, of course. What, more generally, have machines done for food prices? Sun Ling Wang, agricultural economist with the USDA, laid out the most basic principle: On the supply side, technology can help produce more products. If farmers produce more products, other things being equal, prices will decrease. But she  and several other economists I spoke with  emphasized the difficulty of teasing out the impact of mechanization from the large pool of factors that affect price.

Case in point is the machine that has probably had the biggest impact on American agriculture: the combine.

A combine is for row crops (grains and legumes), and it does, as its name implies, a combination of things: harvesting (removing the plant from the ground), threshing (removing the grain from the plant) and cleaning (removing the schmutz from the grain). What isnt grain  the stalks and leaves  the combine can either chop up and leave on the field to provide cover and organic material, or bale for animal feed.

It does it all at once. At speed. Even when its 32 rows at a time. Its an astonishing thing to watch. I got to drive a combine once, on an Illinois soy field, and I consider it a highlight of my ag journalism career. (To see a variety of big-farm machinery in action, try the YouTube channel of Brian Scott, a fourth-generation Indiana farmer whose family farms 2,200 acres of corn, soy, wheat and popcorn. He has a drone, and hes not afraid to use it.)

Since tractors replaced horses, and then combines replaced tractors  in a period of about a century  the price of row crops has dropped fairly steadily. Although replacing horses was important because farmers no longer had to grow the grain to feed them, the biggest factor in the price drop, according to Prabhu Pingali, professor of applied economics and management at Cornell, was better-yielding crop varieties.

[The decline of the small American family farm in one chart]

The combine had other effects, though: It led to larger farms and standardization of growing practices. Combines give you scale economies to expand farms, says Pingali, but he notes that these effects arent universal. In India, for example, mechanization hasnt increased farm size, partly because farmers rent the equipment, which goes from farm to farm. But in the United States  and particularly in the Midwest, where the flat, uniform geography lends itself to large swaths of cropland  machines have been a major part of the dynamic that has more than doubled the size of the average farm and reduced the number of them by about two-thirds.



A combine unloads a hopper full of harvested soybeans into a tractor trailer on a farm in Ohio. (Ty Wright/Bloomberg News)

And then theres jobs. While machines have clearly eliminated jobs in some areas, the dynamic is often the other way around: Lack of labor forces farmers to turn to machines. In the period after World War II, says Wang, workers left the fields for higher-paying manufacturing jobs. And now, in California, a labor shortage is driving wages up, and farmers are looking to machines that were prohibitively expensive when labor was cheap (like lettuce bots).

Among people who care about our food system, theres often hostility toward the suite of changes to American agriculture that can reasonably be called industrialization. Machines are part of that, but so is specialization (a focus on just a few crops), dependence on pesticides and chemical fertilizer, large size, and the uniformity that enables just a few people  with the help of John Deere  to farm thousands of acres.

[Illegal immigrants help fuel U.S. farms. Does affordable produce depend on them?]

I understand the hostility, as the most serious problems we face (my list: fertilizer runoff, soil degradation, lack of crop variety) are wrapped up in industrialization. But industrialization brings with it some very significant benefits. The ability for fewer people to grow more food is one of them, and machines are a part of that. While peoples livelihoods still depend on farm jobs, its important that we safeguard those livelihoods, but field work is grueling drudgery. Post-Industrial Revolution modernization has brought its share of problems, but freeing humans from grueling drudgery is a big win. I do just enough farm labor to be reminded regularly that the worlds a better place if farm labor is done by tractors and harvesters and combines, rather than people.
Q: The marble table weve been using daily for the past 35 years once had a glossy surface. Now it has fine scratches and shows dullness in some areas. I am assuming it has a heavy coat of polyurethane or varnish. What is the best solution? Is there any spray available that we can use to bring back an even glossy finish?

Ellicott City

A: Although it is possible that your table has a polyurethane or varnish finish, its much more likely that the marble was polished to a high gloss that has become scratched and dull. Thats the conclusion of both a saleswoman at Columbia Tile and Marble (410-796-4666; columbiatileandmarble.com), which has a showroom in Elkridge for a wide array of stone and tile products, and Hunter Dasch, vice president of Rose Restoration International (800-413-9893; roserestoration.com), a company based in Merrifield, Va., that restores marble surfaces throughout the Washington area.

Rose Restoration can visit and assess the situation. If polishing is what your table needs, Daschs crew could do that and seal the surface with a silicone impregnator for $300 to $600, depending on the table.

Q: I am writing to request assistance in finding someone to clean, repair and re-grout tile in my shower stall. There is some mildew, primarily near the floor, and the grout in some areas is worn and needs to be replaced. I plan to have the sliding glass doors replaced with a frameless door. The company I am thinking about using suggested that I first have someone clean and repair the tile and remove the current sliding door and clean and repair the exposed tiles, as there will be holes in the tiles and most likely some mildew. I have called several companies, but so far I havent had any success in finding anyone to do the work. How do I find someone?

A reader is looking for someone to clean, repair and re-grout the tile in this shower stall. (Reader photo)

Fort Washington

A: Sometimes the best way to find a repair person is to talk to companies that sell the products involved. They often focus on retail aspects but maintain a list of tradespeople who can install and repair their products. And although their recommendations arent foolproof  they probably dont go out and inspect the jobs, for example  theres a pretty good chance that if the work isnt done well, they will hear the complaints and stop making the recommendations.

Morris Tile Distributors in Tuxedo, Md. (301-773-7000; morristile.com), recommended calling Rays Home Improvements & Repairs in Accokeek (301-248-8729; rayshiar.com). And sure enough, after the pictures you sent were emailed to Natasha Campbell, the office assistant, she said that the company would be happy to do this work for you. To estimate the cost, however, someone would need to visit and assess the job. You could make an appointment, and someone would probably be able to visit within a week.
Parents may be able to accumulate more money to pay for college by investing in an out-of-state 529 plan. Yet many dont even know its possible. Eighty percent of those who invest in a 529 choose the one in their home state, according to a study by the Investment Company Institute.

That is a potential blunder because some state 529 plans feature lower fees and higher returns that can make a difference in your college savings. For example, according to figures from NerdWallet.com, if you invested $5,000 in Oregons plan in 2010, five years later your account would have grown to $7,714. But if you invested the same $5,000 in Michigans plan, five years later your account would have grown to $10,017.

I should clarify that I am referring to 529 savings plans, not 529 prepaid tuition plans. 529 savings plans are individual investment accounts that grow tax-free as long as you use the money to pay for college costs. The 529 prepaid tuition plans allow you to lock in todays tuition rates, usually at a public university in one of the 11 states that offer them. Perhaps because both types of plan have the term 529 in their name, many parents mistakenly believe they can start a 529 only in their own state or use it to pay for in-state tuition. Wrong!

The good news is that 529 plans, in general, have improved in recent years, said Liz Weston, a certified financial planner and NerdWallet columnist. But Weston acknowledges, Costs can vary and so can investment performance. Now that you know you can invest in an out-of-state 529 savings plan, heres how you decide where to put your money: Weigh the tax deductions, if any, offered by your own state for investing in its plan against the lower fees and higher profits that may be possible in another states plan.

Twenty-seven states plus the District offer tax deductions or credits for investing in their own 529 plan. Nine states do not offer a tax deduction. Another nine states do not have an income tax so cannot offer a deduction against it. And five states will give you a tax deduction for investing in any states 529 plan. Here are the states  and the strategies  for each of these categories. (Verify for yourself before making a decision, as states change their programs frequently.)

[Tech has taken the work out of couponing. Heres how to save big with little effort.]

States that offer a tax deduction or credit for investing in their 529 plan:

States: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin, plus the District.

Strategy: Assess how valuable your states tax deduction or credit really is. For example, the website SavingForCollege.com created a map that shows a couple making $100,000 a year and contributing $100 a month to their childs in-state 529 plan would get an annual deduction of $360 in Indiana, but just $37 in North Dakota. If your states tax deduction is worthwhile, one strategy is to invest the maximum deductible amount in its plan and also invest in another state 529 plan to take advantage of low fees and high returns. This is also a way of diversifying your portfolio.

States that do not offer a tax deduction for investing in their 529 plan:

States: California, Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, New Jersey and North Carolina.

Strategy: Because there is no monetary incentive for staying in-state, you are free to choose a 529 savings plan with a good balance of low fees and high returns. Fees vary dramatically, from just 0.05 percent of your account balance for one Massachusetts 529 plan to 1.09 percent for one Alaska plan.

States with no income tax, so no 529 income tax deduction:

States: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.

Strategy: Because there is no monetary incentive for staying in-state, you are free to choose a 529 savings plan with a good balance of low fees and high returns.

States that give you a tax deduction for investing in any states 529:

States: Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, Montana and Pennsylvania.

Strategy: Because youre going to get a tax deduction regardless of where you invest, choose a state 529 savings plan with a good balance of low fees and high profits.

Its hard to figure out on your own whether your tax deduction is worthwhile and which state 529 plans offer the best balance of low fees and high profits. Fortunately, there are many resources online and I recommend looking at several, because no one site covers it all.

Every year, rating service Morningstar ranks 529 plans either gold, silver, bronze, neutral or negative, but without listing their fees or performance, so consider this rating an overview.

NerdWallets calculator asks you your state of residence. It then tells you whether your own states plan is worth looking at, plus other state plans to consider. NerdWallets tool tells you how its recommended 529s have performed over the past five years and how much they charge in fees.

Finally, CollegeSavings.org offers the most detailed comparison tool. You choose which state plans you want to compare and the website displays them side by side, telling you whether they are sold directly by the state or by financial advisers (the latter can have higher fees), what those fees are, and even whether the state matches 529 contributions (a few states do this for low-income citizens.) This site also lists minimum starting contributions and maximum lifetime contributions.

Some states require only small minimum contributions, so if cash is tight, this could be a factor in your decision. For example, Utahs 529 plan allows you to contribute as little as a penny, but one New York plan requires $1,000 to get started. Maximum contributions are another thing to look at, especially if you think your child will go to graduate school. One of Michigans 529 plans allows you to sock away only $88,000, whereas two of Virginias plans allow you to contribute as much as $500,000.

Still worried you wont get it right? Take heart. Many 529 plans allow rollovers, giving you the chance to transfer your money from one 529 to another. Plus, investing in any 529 is better than investing in none at all. The most important thing is to invest at least something, Weston said. And keep investing, because anything you save will help reduce your childs future debt load.

Elisabeth Leamy is a 13-time Emmy winner and 25-year consumer advocate for programs such as Good Morning America and The Dr. Oz Show. Connect with her at leamy.com and @ElisabethLeamy.
Boris Epshteyn stands to the side of the media room during the daily news briefing in February. (Carolyn Kaster/Associated Press)

Clarification: The original version of this story asserted that all of Sinclairs commentators and news personalities espoused a conservative perspective. The story has been updated to say that all of Sinclairs four nationally-syndicated commentators offer conservative views. It also reported that according to Craig Aaron, president of liberal activist organization Free Press, the media conglomerates hiring of former Trump administration press aide Epshteyn suggested a quid pro quo with the administration, exchanging favorable coverage for favorable regulatory treatment. The story has been updated to include Sinclairs strong denials of any such arrangement.

TV station powerhouse Sinclair Broadcast Group raised a few eyebrows in April when it hired Boris Epshteyn as its chief political analyst. Epshteyn, after all, was a combative TV surrogate for President Trump during the presidential campaign and briefly was a Trump administration press aide, raising an obvious question: How independent would his political analysis be?

The answer, judging from Epshteyns first few weeks on the job, seems to be not very.

In his initial pieces for Sinclair, the owner of the largest string of TV stations in the nation, Epshteyn has played much the same role he did during the presidential campaign  as a Trump booster and defender. His Bottom Line With Boris segments have echoed positions taken by Trump himself, especially the presidents distaste for the news media.

His first report asked whether reporters were treating the president fairly; Epshteyn concluded they were not. From the very start of the Trump presidency, the [White House] press briefings have veered way off course, he said. They have become much more theater than information gathering, theater in which, frankly, the press has often played the leading role.

A second piece about former FBI director James B. Comeys testimony before Congress also bashed the reporting on Trump. The media coverage of this administration seems to be a lot of hype and very little substance, Epshteyn said.

A third segment appraised Trumps first 100 days in office enthusiastically. It included an interview clip with Kellyanne Conway, Epshteyns former White House colleague, in which she said, Go ask a coal miner or a farmer or a truck driver or someone who works in the health-care profession how they feel about some of the great moves hes made in the first few days, and they will tell you they feel very buoyant.

To which Epshteyn added his own exclamation point: The American people demand change, and they demand action, and thats exactly what theyll get from this administration going forward.

Epshteyns segments have added yet another pro-Trump shading to news and commentary offered by Sinclair, a Baltimore-area company with a long history of favoring conservative causes and candidates on its stations newscasts.

During the 2016 presidential campaign, Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law, boasted that Trump officials had struck a deal with Sinclair for interviews with company-owned stations, particularly those in critical swing states. Sinclair has denied the existence of such a deal, but its stations in Ohio, Florida and elsewhere nevertheless scored multiple exclusive interviews with Trump and his surrogates.

The company, which owns 173 stations nationwide, announced its biggest expansion last month  an agreement to buy 42 stations owned by Tribune Media for $3.9 billion. The Tribune purchase would expand Sinclairs access to households in about 70 percent of the nation, including those serving the three largest metropolitan areas, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. The deal, which is pending the approval of the Trump administration, has raised concerns about the concentration of station ownership (Sinclairs largest station currently is WJLA, Channel 7, in Washington.)

In light of the Tribune agreement, Epshteyns hiring by Sinclair suggests a tacit quid pro quo, said Craig Aaron, president of Free Press, a liberal activist organization that opposes further consolidation. In exchange for Sinclair providing pro-Trump propaganda, he said, the Trump administration will approve a deal that will expand a pro-Trump network. Sinclair has strongly denied any such arrangement.

Like Epshteyn, all of Sinclairs nationally-syndicated commentators espouse a conservative perspective on the news. In addition to Epshteyn, the commentators are: Mark Hyman, a company executive who does regular commentaries; Sharyl Attkisson ; and Armstrong Williams, who managed Ben Carsons 2016 presidential campaign.

Epshteyn, a college classmate of Trumps son Eric, is not the first aide to join a news organization fresh from his work on behalf of a political figure. James Carville and Paul Begala were hired by CNN after helping to elect Bill Clinton, and Karl Rove and Dana Perino joined Fox News after working for George W. Bush. More recently, CNN employed former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski as an analyst.

The difference, however, is that Lewandowski, et al., have usually been paired with opposing or contrasting voices on the air to provide a range of opinions. Epshteyn appears by himself on his two-minute segments, making him more akin to commentators such as Foxs Sean Hannity or MSNBCs Rachel Maddow.

Epshteyn declined an on-the-record interview. He issued a statement that read, in part, My political affiliations are well known and are widely disclosed. . . . Having had the great opportunity to work in this White House, I take my ability to provide unique insight into the Trump administration very seriously.

Sinclairs top news executive, Senior Vice President Scott Livingston, also issued a statement that noted that Epshteyns commentary was part of our continued effort to produce diverse programming for our viewers and amounted to a brief addition to the many hours of local news its stations produce each day.

In fact, Epshteyns segments take up more than two minutes of a stations typical 30-minute newscast  a considerable chunk of time considering that sports, weather reports and commercials leave only 15 or 16 minutes for news.

What is striking, in any case, is how Epshteyns point of view tends to dovetail with Sinclairs news coverage.

On the same day that Sinclair distributed to its stations his segment about the alleged bias in reporting the Comey hearing, for example, it also distributed a story from reporter Michelle Macaluso and instructed the stations to air it on a must-run, or mandatory, basis. Her report suggested the media was under pressure because Comey had disputed news accounts saying that the FBI was investigating Trump himself (Trump subsequently confirmed that he is under investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller). A question-of-the-day poll sent to stations along with Macalusos report asked viewers, Do you trust news stories about politicians which are based on unnamed sources?

Epshteyn, meanwhile, has gone from commenting on the news to becoming a part of it. In late May, he acknowledged that the House Intelligence Committee had asked him for information as part of its investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. His attorney called it a broad, preliminary request for information.

Epshteyn will not be precluded from talking about the issue on the air, Livingston said. Instead, he said, the company would disclose Epshteyns involvement in the issue if the topic comes up in his commentary.
This post has been updated.

This weeks best travel bargains around the globe.

Sea

Scenic Luxury Cruises Tours is offering free round-trip air from Washington with its 2017 and 2018 Treasures of the Mekong trip. Prices vary by date and cabin. For example, the Aug. 27 cruise starts at $5,580 per person double and includes a seven-night cruise between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City; three nights at the Park Hyatt Siem Reap; two nights at the Park Hyatt Saigon; all meals while cruising, plus 12 meals at hotels; airport transfers; and taxes. Air typically costs about $1,116. Book by July 31. Info: 844-788- 7987, www.scenicusa.com.

Princess Cruises is offering free beverage packages and specialty dining. The Sip & Sail promo applies to all six-to-49-day cruises and cruisetours to destinations around the globe from summer 2018 to spring 2019. Book a balcony or higher category and receive the free All-Inclusive Beverage Package for two guests (worth $57 each per day), plus an Unlimited Soda & More package for additional guests sharing the stateroom. The All-Inclusive Beverage Package includes individual soda, juices, shakes, bottled water, cocktails, wine, beer, specialty coffee and tea worth up to $10. Book by Aug. 31. Also, book a mini-suite or suite by July 5 and receive free specialty dining. Info: 800-774-6237, www.princess.com.

Land

Receive 20 percent off a three-night stay at the Samoset Resort on Penobscot Bay in Rockport, Maine. Nightly rates start at $199 for the remainder of June and $239 for July, plus 9 percent tax and a $25 daily resort fee. Regular rates are from $249 and $299, respectively. Book and stay at least three nights by July 31. Use promo code STAY3. Info: 800-341-1650, samosetresort.com.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, is offering more than 40 percent off rates, plus a resort credit. The Big Memories promo starts at $209 per adult per night, down from $355, and $100 for kids ages 13 and older, including taxes. Children age 12 and younger are free. The deal includes a $500 credit, which guests can use on spa treatments, room upgrades, character breakfasts and more. Book by July 31; travel Aug. 21-Dec. 22. Info: 844-SEE-NICK, nickresortpuntacana.com.

Warwick Paradise Island  Bahamas is celebrating Pride Month with a free night. Book three consecutive nights at the adults-only all-inclusive and receive a free fourth night. A four-night stay starts at $1,140 for two adults through Aug. 21, a $380 savings. For stays Aug. 21-Oct. 31, the deal starts at $960, a savings of $320. Rate includes meals, beverages, activities, entertainment, tips and taxes. The promo also includes a free manicure or pedicure at Amber Spa, a value of $30 to $50. Book by July 31. Info: 888-645- 5550, warwickhotels.com/wpib-pride-month.

Air

Southwest has a sale on nonstop flights to domestic and international destinations. For example, the round-trip fare from Washington Dulles to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is $138, with taxes; fare on other airlines starts at $184. Sale restrictions vary by destination. Book by June 29 at www.southwest.com.

Package

JetBlue Vacations is offering a F amily Vacation promotion for travel through Aug. 31. For example, a four-night vacation to the Bahamas in mid-July now starts at $3,145 for a family of four and includes round-trip nonstop flights from Reagan National and a shared room at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar. Priced separately, the trip costs about $3,561. Book by June 26. Info: jetblue.com/vacations/family.

 Carol Sottili, Andrea Sachs
Nathan Fields, with the Baltimore City Health Department, trains a woman on how to administer naloxone, the antidote for heroin and opiate overdoses, in a needle exchange van in 2015. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post)

Baltimore health officials are running low on naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal drug used hundreds of times by bystanders in the past couple of years to save lives.

Leana Wen, the city health commissioner, said demand has jumped significantly amid the drug epidemic, and the health department needs funding for more supplies.

We are rationing, she said. Were deciding who is at the highest risk and giving it to them.

The city has about 4,000 doses left to last until next May. The department will distribute them, two at a time, to residents, including IV drug users encountered by the citys needle exchange vans or by outreach workers in hot spots, areas where a spate of overdoses has recently occurred.

If I had 10,000 doses and gave them to everyone who requested them, Id run out in about two weeks, Wen said.

Naloxone has become the cornerstone of the public health communitys emergency response to skyrocketing fatalities from opioids, including prescription painkillers, heroin and fentanyl, a powerful drug commonly mixed into heroin without users knowledge. The goal is to keep opioid users alive long enough to get them into treatment.

And though Wen has more units on hand than she has had in some recent years, she said its not enough to keep pace with rising needs.

Maryland health officials recently reported that 2,089 people fatally overdosed in the state in 2016, up 66 percent from 2015. About a third of the overall deaths, 694, were in Baltimore, and the shares were higher for heroin and fentanyl. There are an estimated 21,000 active heroin users in Baltimore.

The city department bought 3,120 units for fiscal 2017, down from 3,340 the previous year. A state grant paid for about 20 percent. The total doesnt include some charitable donations, pharmaceutical company donations to schools or first-responder stocks.

Some county health departments are able to rely more heavily on grants from the state, which funded 27,870 units in fiscal 2017 for public health and other entities. But no county reports as many overdose deaths as Baltimore.

Anne Arundel County, for example, dispensed 1,677 units of naloxone in fiscal 2017, with about three-quarters paid for by the state. The county logged 195 overdose deaths last year, the third most in the state.

To fill in gaps, residents appear to be turning to sources including retail pharmacies and the Medicaid program, which charges $1 for a dose. State figures show a large increase in the past year in claims for naloxone from the federal-state health program for low-income residents, who make up a disproportionate number of those who overdose in Maryland. There were 1,945 claims in the first three months of 2017, compared with 757 in the same period last year.

Local officials say demand could increase because this week state officials eliminated a requirement for training to use naloxone. The remedy already was available without a prescription from pharmacies.

As the opioid epidemic has evolved, we have worked steadily to expand access to naloxone, said Howard Haft, a state deputy secretary for public health, in announcing the move after legislative approval. Pharmacies play an important role in providing access to naloxone and counseling on how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose.

Pharmacies generally have been seeing demand for the opioid antidote. Amy Lanctot, a spokeswoman for CVS, said naloxone is available in all of the companys Maryland pharmacies, some on the same day its requested and some the next day. The cost depends on a persons insurance. Those without coverage are charged $45 for a shot and $110 for a nasal spray.

We can report that there has been significant interest in all communities where we make naloxone available, Lanctot said, but the company doesnt disclose sales.

Emergency medical responders still have the largest stocks of naloxone. The Baltimore Fire Department now annually orders 18,750 units of two milligrams each, costing approximately $675,000. The department orders more when stocks drop near 700 doses.

We are more than equipped to administer naloxone whenever needed, said Blair Skinner, a spokeswoman for the department. We pride ourselves on saving lives, and as the opioid epidemic rises, it is our duty to ensure we continue to remain well equipped to provide resources to help people.

All ambulances responding to emergencies across the state  more than 650  have been required to carry at least four milligrams of naloxone since 2014, said Richard Alcorta, state EMS medical director at the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems, which sets policy.

Were a safety net, Alcorta said. So we have it.

He couldnt say how often ambulances were administering naloxone, though he said the state was seeking to count. Emergency responders have been instructed to give naloxone to anyone who is not breathing, just in case opioids are at issue.

Alcorta, an emergency physician, said naloxone is needed within minutes to revive overdose victims. He said bystanders without naloxone could perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation until help arrives. (Chest compressions arent necessary because opioids depress respiration, not a beating heart.)

Wen, also an emergency physician, said getting naloxone into bystanders hands probably would be more effective. To buy more of the drug, which she notes has jumped in price in recent years, she needs the citys share of the $10 million in funding Maryland received in May from the recently passed federal 21st Century Cures Act.

The money is to be used for a variety of measures statewide to counter the opioid epidemic, and state health officials have said they are working on a plan for distribution.

In letters this year to the state health department, Wen asked for at least a third of the money to fund more treatment, outreach, education  and naloxone.

We need funds now, Wen said. It seems unconscionable at a time of a public health emergency, when there is an antidote readily available and can save lives, that we have to ration.
Four members of Prince Georges Countys school board have urged Gov. Larry Hogan to order an investigation into what they allege is a systemic effort to fraudulently boost graduation rates in the Maryland school district.

The members, a minority bloc on a 14-member board, say the states second-largest district engaged in widespread systemic corruption that has inflated graduation rates since 2014. They allege that grades were changed and that students were credited for courses they did not take.

Whistleblowers at almost every level in [Prince Georges County Public Schools] have clear and convincing evidence that PGCPS has graduated hundreds of students who did not meet the Maryland State Department of Education graduation requirements, the four said in a letter.

The accusations drew a strong reaction from other school board members and senior school system officials.

School district officials said Monday afternoon that the state had investigated the systems graduation rates several months ago. The state did so at the request of the federal Education Department, which got an anonymous complaint last summer.

Investigators found nothing improper, district officials said, providing a state letter discussing the result of the examination, which included several hours of interviews with five people who work in the school system. The school officials also released a federal response saying the matter was closed.

We already feel this situation was thoroughly investigated and . . . the allegations were unfounded, Deputy Superintendent Monique Davis said Monday.

The board members who wrote the letter, dated May 30, are Edward Burroughs III (District 8), David Murray (District 1), Raaheela Ahmed (District 5) and student member Juwan Blocker. Burroughs, who provided the first signature on the letter, is a frequent critic of Kevin Maxwell, the school systems chief executive.

The letter noted that Maxwell started as the top leader of the 132,000-student system in summer 2013 and that he has touted graduation rate improvements as a significant achievement.

[Maryland graduation rates hit new high, with big rise for Prince Georges]

Maxwell, who was appointed to a second four-year term this year by County Executive Rushern L. Baker III (D), issued a statement that called the letter politically motivated and welcomed state education officials to fully explore the matter.

These claims are an affront to the hard work of our teachers, administrators, students and parents over the last few years, he said. I categorically deny any systemic effort to promote students who did not meet state graduation requirements.

(The Washington Post)

State data shows that four-year graduation rates in Prince Georges have improved from 74.1 percent for the class of 2013 to 81.4 percent for the class of 2016. That jump was the largest for that time period of any school system in the state, data shows.

Even so, the countys rate lagged behind the statewide rate (87.6 percent) and the rate in any other Maryland school system except the city of Baltimores.

Prince Georges officials attributed their gains to increasing expectations and standards since Maxwell arrived and efforts to provide support to students.

Nationally, on-time graduation rates have risen in recent years, and many school systems, especially those that are lower-

performing, have felt pressure to show gains, said Michael Hansen, director of the Brown Center on Education Policy at the Brookings Institution.

[Kevin Maxwell, Prince Georges schools chief executive officer, gets four more years]

The letter was first reported Saturday by Fox 5 News. It requested that Hogan (R) order the states attorney general and the Maryland State Department of Education to investigate and also asked that documents be seized and a process created so that whistleblowers may come forward without fear of retribution.

A spokeswoman for Hogan called the allegations very concerning and said in an email that they had been forwarded to the state education department.

A state Education Department spokeswoman declined to comment Monday.

[Maryland graduation rates hit a new high]

The letter alleged that whistleblowers have evidence about the manipulation of student records both before and after graduation.

According to the four board members, the whistleblowers said:

Courses that students had not taken had been added to their records;

Grades were changed without teachers consent;

Students received credit for service learning hours that they had not earned. Maryland requires students to amass a certain number of service learning hours for graduation.

These actions, which alter the much touted student graduation rate, are occurring across the school system leading us to believe that there are accomplices and complicity at the highest levels of the school system, the letter said.

In a separate letter to county citizens, nine other school board members said Monday they were shocked and dismayed by the allegations and had no knowledge or evidence of systemic corruption to increase graduation results.

They said it was appalling that the minority bloc ignored local leadership and chose to secretly share and distribute information that seeks to belittle the hard work of students, educators and parents. The school district has monitoring and compliance systems in place, and those who cut corners would face definitive sanctions, the nine wrote.

Baker told reporters he had not seen the letter to the governor but had spoken to Maxwell. Baker said any allegations would be taken seriously, but he also commended the districts success.

Theyve done a great job in the school system to get the graduation rates up, he said. The teachers and principals have worked really hard. And so I know that they are going to look at this seriously. Were very proud of the work the school system has done and the progress theyve made.
A woman wipes away a tear and others listen as President Barack Obama speaks at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill during a Democratic Party campaign event Nov. 2, 2016. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will receive a $1 million prize for its efforts to make higher education accessible and affordable for low-income students.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, based in Loudoun County, Va., selected UNC for the prize as a national leader and role model for providing equal educational opportunity to students based on academic merit, regardless of family income, the foundations executive director, Harold O. Levy, said in a statement Monday.

The Cooke prize for equity in educational excellence was created to reward colleges with programs benefiting low-income students. According to a study by the Cooke Foundation, only 3 percent of students from the bottom income quartile attend top U.S. universities. At the same colleges, 72 percent of the enrollment are students from the top 25 percent income bracket.

The foundation, named for the late owner of the Washington Redskins, chose UNC for its expansive efforts on behalf of poor students. A total of 22 percent of students at the public flagship are eligible for Pell grants, an indicator of income status, but the university provides needs-based financial aid to 44 percent of undergraduates.

The reason for the establishment of state universities was to give, in the words of someone else, uncommon education to the common man,  Levy said in an interview. These are institutions that should be focused on low-income kids and moving them up the food chain. Too few of our colleges do that. . . . The colleges that still focus on high-performing low-income kids from their state are exceptionally important. And UNC Chapel Hill is really in front of that game.

UNC Chancellor Carol L. Folt said the universitys efforts to help low-income students begins in middle school, long before they enroll at Chapel Hill. The universitys recruitment and outreach include tours of the campus for low-income middle and high school students from around the state. Its Carolina College Advising Corps reaches 23 percent of low-income public high school students in the state.

The approach that we take is so comprehensive and so deep, Folt said. It starts with kids in middle school, reaching out that no matter what their background is they truly can go here.

Stephen Farmer, vice provost for enrollment and undergraduate admissions, said the university is dedicated to a holistic application process to ensure socioeconomic diversity.

We have worked really, really hard just in admissions to really consider students individually on the basis of the whole of their circumstances rather than just to let us be distracted by one or two flashy numbers, Farmer said. We know that people are really more than their test scores.

Farmer said that in recent years the admissions department decided against placing significant emphasis on the number of Advanced Placement courses on a students transcript as one way to level the playing field.

Instead, Farmer said, the admissions officers are looking at applications to identify indicators of grit, resiliency and determination.

Has the student overcome obstacles? Has the student taken care of responsibilities outside of the classroom? Farmer said. We think that there are a lot of ways for students to demonstrate their capacity to work hard here.

Farmer said that for admitted students, the schools Carolina Covenant program provides debt-free financial aid to qualifying students to ensure that an education is attainable regardless of income. Since the Carolina Covenant program began in 2004, the four-year graduation rate for African American men rose from 33 percent to 61.8 percent for the class of 2015.

For Folt, making college affordable and accessible for disadvantaged students is a personal mission. Her grandparents were Albanian immigrants, and her mother was the first in the family to be born in the United States. Folt worked her way through college at the University of California at Santa Barbara as a waitress at the Big Belly Deli on her way to earning bachelors and masters degrees in biology before later receiving her doctorate from the University of California at Davis.

We were raised like many first-generation families to just believe that you worked hard and you went and you made it to college and that college would open up opportunities, Folt said. I just believe in the power of higher education to make your life have unlimited opportunity.

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Jordan Uhl was swamped. The idea he had floated on Twitter last month for a modest demonstration had transformed into the highly publicized March for Truth, and in weeks, thousands of people were expected to descend on the nations capital.

His notion had become a full-fledged protest, and with it came logistics he had never considered: a stage, speakers, portable toilets, stage marshals, permits and more.

He had no idea how to plan a demonstration, let alone pull off a major event with satellite marches throughout the country.

[Amid questions about Russia-Trump ties, protesters rally in front of the White House]

But, he said, he received a divine Facebook message from a little-known group called the D.C. Local Ambassadors that said it would plan the entire demonstration for him  free.

Protesters gather at the Washington Monument for the March for Truth on June 3. (Salwan Georges/The Washington Post)

D.C. Local Ambassadors formed after the Women's March on Washington to aid progressive activists who were planning protests in the nation's capital. Mike Litterst, a spokesman for the National Park Service  which handles permitting for demonstrations on federal land  said as of late May the agency had fielded 25 percent more permit requests this year than at the same time last year.

As more progressive activists emerge in Washington during the Trump presidency, D.C. Local Ambassadors was established to help novices plan their protests.

The group, comprised of mostly women, all volunteers who live in the Washington region, handled nearly all of the logistics for the March for Truth, training and providing volunteers to ensure everything went smoothly on June 3, the day of the protest.

[Washingtons portable toilet industry is flush, thanks to Trump]

It was just a lifesaver, Uhl said. They coordinated everything that I was losing sleep over and stressing out about.

Laura Sanders, one of the founding members of the group who recently left her job in international development at USAID, said she and three other founders first worked together while volunteering for the Womens March on Washington in January. As local residents, their jobs were to ensure protesters visiting from out of town found their way to Metro stations and buses. They also were on the ground on the day of the march, communicating any issues with the proper officials.

After the historic march, Sanders and the group wanted to remain involved in the citys robust activism scene and quickly discovered a void: There were no comprehensive resources for people to figure out how to plan a protest that projects the intended message while also adhering to federal and city guidelines.

D.C. Local Ambassadors members Sue Mosher of Arlington, left, and Ann Griffith of the District, share a photo on a smartphone at Mackey's Public House in Washington. (Ricky Carioti/The Washington Post)

[Womens marches: More than one million protesters vow to resist President Trump]

We were really surprised that there really isnt anything out there telling you things like how big of a stage you need and how you estimate crowd sizes, said Sanders, 39. We are trying to see how we can make protesting in D.C. the most accessible for the biggest number of people.

The group has about 15 core members and 800 people on its mailing list. At the March for Truth, it provided about 100 volunteers wearing red vests throughout the day. D.C. Local Ambassadors trained the volunteers in de-escalation techniques and crowd-control protocols.

Supporting marches with volunteers is one of the main reasons we exist, said Megan Mamula, 37, a D.C. resident whose background is also in international development.

The group is still honing its mission, and still learning the ins-and-outs of what it takes to plan an effective protest. They want to be able to provide anything a group needs to plan a successful protest. If an organizer needs volunteers, they hope to provide them. If the organizer wants someone to take the lead on logistics, then the D.C. Local Ambassadors say they want to step in and do that, too.

Eventually, they want to publish a guide on how to plan a protest in Washington that will help people navigate government agencies and other logistics.

We have this local expertise, and this skill set that we can offer, said Kelley Gallagher, a 38-year-old federal government worker who lives in the District.

Members range in age from mid-20s to late 60s. They have no funding, and use the budget of the demonstration they are working on to help plan it free of charge.

They meet weekly and say they are working on a few marches that are in the nascent planning stages, including one focused on health care.

Most of the members said they have always been politically engaged but had little experience in activism before the Womens March.

No matter.

Uhl, the organizer of the March for Truth, said the volunteers have shown they can throw a well-organized, legally sound protest.

It would have been a disaster without them, he said.
Bill Dana, a television writer, actor, producer and stand-up comedian whose routine as the bumbling immigrant and sometime-spaceman Jose Jimenez made him one of the most popular comics of the 1960s and a favorite of NASAs first astronauts, died June 15 at his home in Nashville. He was 92.

His wife, Evy Dana, announced his death but did not disclose the cause.

Mr. Dana, the son of a Jewish Hungarian immigrant, built his career on making mostly gentle fun of outsiders. His material was often mined from the malapropisms uttered by those who were new to the English language, and from the idioms of native speakers  as in the satirical 60s spy series Get Smart, which featured a recurring would you believe bit that Mr. Dana had previously written for the shows star, comedian Don Adams.

At this very moment, this warehouse is being surrounded by 100 cops with Doberman pinschers, Adams tells one villain in a movie spinoff. Would you believe it?

I find that hard to believe, hes told, prompting Adams to respond: Would you believe 10 security guards and a bloodhound? How about a Boy Scout with rabies?

Mr. Danas writing credits included an episode of All in the Family, in which the black, Jewish entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. meets the seriess bigoted protagonist, Archie Bunker (Carroll OConnor). You being colored, well, I know you had no choice in that, Bunker tells Davis. But whatever made you turn Jew?

Mr. Dana, who came to write the episode in part through his friendship with producer Norman Lear, crafted an ending that featured Davis kissing Bunker on the cheek  a surprise that TV Guide hailed as one of the greatest moments in television history.

Yet Mr. Dana remains best known for Jimenez, whose gentle earnestness, halting sentences and apparent lack of common sense  which some critics said played to ethnic stereotypes  burst onto television in 1959 on NBCs The Steve Allen Show.

The character appeared in a sketch about training Santa Claus impersonators for the Christmas season, and introduced himself with a line that became a catchphrase: My name  Jose Jimenez. His duties, he explained with a poster, included teaching new Santas the phrase Jo Jo Jo.

When Santa season ended, Mr. Danas character worked as an elevator operator and then a daydreaming bellhop in The Bill Dana Show on NBC from 1963 to 1965. The cast also included future Lost in Space star Jonathan Harris as the hotel manager and a hapless detective played by Adams, Mr. Danas frequent collaborator.

Jimenez shot to new heights when he donned space gear, appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show before a purported trip to Mars. Asked what he planned to do to entertain himself, Mr. Dana responded: I plan to cry a lot.

The bit was a hit with NASAs Mercury astronauts, who named Mr. Danas Jimenez character an honorary eighth member of the group. Moments after Alan Shepards rocket blasted off in 1961, making him the first American in space, the first words from Mission Control were a reference to his love for the bit: Okay, Jose, youre on your way.

William Szathmary was born in Quincy, Mass., on Oct. 5, 1924, the youngest of six children. His father owned a beach hotel that burned down and worked as a door-to-door salesman as the family struggled through the Depression; his mother ran a hat shop. A brother, Irving Szathmary, had a successful musical career and composed the theme for Get Smart.

Bill Szathmary served as an Army infantryman during World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. He began performing as a comic while at Emerson College in Boston, where he graduated in 1950 with a degree in speech and drama.

He soon adopted the surname Dana and, with classmate Gene Wood, who later announced Family Feud and other game shows, performed at New York nightclubs.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, the former Evelyn Shular of Waldens Creek, Tenn.

Mr. Dana capitalized on his Jimenez character in the 1960s, performing on a record with the Flintstones and in a Paramount cartoon, but he decided to kill off the character at the end of the decade by reading a fictional obituary onstage.

It was a character that brought him so much joy, and that was embraced by the Hispanic community in the early 60s, said Jenni Matz, a television archivist who is working on a documentary of Mr. Dana. But then as the civil rights movement progressed, he became aware that it was being portrayed in a negative way, as a stereotype. This was the opposite of what he was trying to do.

Mr. Dana, who often pointed to honors from the National Hispanic Media Coalition as a sign that the character was well-received in the Latino community, later said he regretted his decision to stop performing as Jimenez. He began reprising the role at public appearances beginning in the 1980s, alongside film and television work that included a recurring role on The Golden Girls.

It was a character whose country of origin Mr. Dana intentionally left vague. It never was a caricature, he once told the Archive of American Television. Hes not a Latin character, hes a universal character.
Saone Baron Crocker, a retired law firm partner and Africa expert who served as a consumer reviewer for a Defense Department panel on medical research, died June 17 at her home in Washington. She was 74.

The cause was ovarian cancer, said her eldest daughter, Bathsheba Crocker.

Mrs. Crocker, the wife of American diplomat and Africa specialist Chester A. Crocker, spent much of her career in private practice specializing in international matters, environmental law and original jurisdiction cases. She spent several years at OMelveny & Myers before retiring in 2002 as a partner at Wright & Talismans Washington office.

She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011, and became so well-versed in the science, research and treatment surrounding her own disease that she became a patient research advocate for the Pentagons Ovarian Cancer Research Program. In that capacity she examined proposed cancer treatment trials in a congressionally directed initiative with a $20 million annual operating budget.

Saone Caroline Baron was born on Jan. 11, 1943, in Bulawayo, one of the largest cities in what was then the British colony of Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Both her grandparents were Jews who settled in Africa after fleeing pogroms in Eastern Europe. Her father, a prominent lawyer, served as a member of parliament in the mid-1950s but resigned after a few years in protest of the reactionary laws the parliament was passing to support white-minority rule.

While attending the University of Cape Town in South Africa, Mrs. Crocker became active in the anti-apartheid movement as a member of the National Union of South African Students. She graduated in 1962, and then moved to Washington to attend Johns Hopkins Universitys School of Advanced International Studies. She married a fellow student, Chester Crocker, who later served as President Ronald Reagans assistant secretary of state for African affairs.

[For Crockers, State Department service is a family affair]

After receiving a masters degree from SAIS in 1965, she wrote and consulted on African issues in Washington. Later, while raising three daughters, she received a law degree from Georgetown University in 1983 and clerked for Judge Harry Edwards of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

As a lawyer at OMelveny, her former colleague Andrew Mohring recalled in an interview, Mrs. Crockers frankness and openness drew others to her like bugs to light. She stood out, he said, with an orientation toward the world that strives for affection and kindness.

Besides her husband of 52 years, survivors include their daughters, Bathsheba Crocker and Karena Anderson, both of Washington, and Rebecca Crocker of Tucson; two sisters; and eight grandchildren.

Mrs. Crocker served on the board of the Humane Rescue Alliance and played a key role in devising a plan for a new kind of shelter that will serve as a community center for people to spend time with animals as well as adopt them.

She regularly held birthday parties for her own dogs, according to her daughter Bathsheba, with cake and ice cream and birthday hats and a seat at the table.
From left, Stephen Furst, John Belushi and Bruce McGill in National Lampoon's Animal House. (Universal Pictures/Rex Features via AP Images)

Stephen Furst, an actor who played the naive fraternity pledge Flounder in the hit campus-set comedy Animal House, a film that has become a gold mine for memorable lines, died June 16 at his home in Moorpark, Calif. He was 63.

The cause was complications from diabetes, his family said.

More fully known as National Lampoons Animal House, the 1978 film offered Mr. Furst a breakout role as Kent Flounder Dorfman.

It also marked the film debut of Saturday Night Live actor John Belushi, who played the aggressively underachieving Delta House stalwart Blutarsky, who crushes beer cans against his forehead and whose most rousing speech contained the historical gem, Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?

The film is set in the early 1960s on the fictional Faber College (motto: Knowledge Is Good) and culminates in a showdown between members of the fun-loving Delta House and the evil authority figure Dean Vernon Wormer (John Vernon), who delights in telling them, Im sure youll be happy to know that I have notified your local draft boards and told them you are now all, all eligible for military service.

Actor Stephen Furst, seen in 1986, reprised his Animal House role in the short-lived spinoff, Delta House, in 1979. (Lennox McLendon/AP)

The comedy, which was directed by John Landis, was a massive hit and was also praised by critics. New York Times film reviewer Janet Maslin singled out Mr. Furst for some very successful scene-stealing as the house blimp.

Mr. Furst reprised the role in a short-lived spinoff, ABCs Delta House in 1979. His long list of credits included the 1980s medical drama St. Elsewhere, on which he played Dr. Elliot Axelrod. He played Vir Cotto and was an occasional director on the 1990s sci-fi series Babylon 5.

He also voiced characters on projects including TVs Buzz Lightyear of Star Command and the video The Little Mermaid 2: Return to the Sea.

Mr. Furst was born Stephen Nelson Fuerstein in Norfolk on May 8, 1954, and he attended Virginia Commonwealth University. In 1976, he married actress Lorraine Wright. She survives, along with their two sons; a sister; and two grandchildren.

CORRECTION: This obituary incorrectly reported Mr. Fursts birth year as 1955. He was born in 1954. The story has been revised.
Sunday, JUNE 18

Dale City farmers market 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Dale City Commuter Lot (behind Center Plaza Shopping Center), Dale Boulevard, Dale City. 703-670-7112 ext. 227. pwcparks.org.

Karma yoga 9 a.m. Loy E. Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center St., Manassas. 703-895-3176. Free.

Juneteenth at Lucasville School Marking the anniversary of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers enforced the Emancipation Proclamation and freed all remaining slaves in Texas. Tour the one-room schoolhouse, which served black children from 1885 to 1926. Participate in school games and crafts. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lucasville School, 10516 Godwin Dr., Manassas. 703-367-7872. Free, donations accepted.

Paws4Pops adoption event In honor of Fathers Day, adoption fees for dogs will be $25; no fees for cats. Noon-4 p.m. Prince William Animal Shelter, 14807 Bristow Rd., Manassas and Humane Societys Pet Adopt Shop, 17983 Dumfries Shopping Plaza, Dumfries. 703-792-6465.

Manassas Jazz Festival Bring a lawn chair or blanket for the annual event featuring wine, beer, spirits and jazz headliner Marcus Johnson. Noon-7 p.m. Manassas Museum lawn, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-361-6599. visitmanassas.org. $20-$105.

Sacred Feminine An exhibit of large-format mixed media works by Naomi Christianson and Asha Elana Casey. Through July 15. Hylton Performing Arts Center, Buchanan Gallery, 10960 George Mason Cir., Manassas. 703-993-7759. hyltoncenter.org. Free.

Everyday Life Drawings by Janet Flickinger. Through July 2. Loft Gallery, 313 Mill St., Occoquan. 703-490-1117. Free.

Celebrating the Arts Paintings and etchings by Roger Frey of Woodbridge and salt-fired pottery by Marianne Cordyack of Reston. Opens Tuesday. Through July 3. Artists Undertaking Gallery, 309 Mill St., Occoquan. 703-494-0584. Free.

Tailor-Made: Vintage Fashions from the Museums Collection Unveiled Curated by Meaghan Reddick, the exhibit looks at fashion of the first quarter of the 20th century. Through Sept. 24. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-257-8453. Free.

Monday, JUNE 19

Bingo Proceeds support local veterans. Doors open 7:30 a.m. Games 9:15 a.m.-noon. American Legion Post 10, 9950 Cockrell Rd., Manassas. 703-369-4900. $16.

Park West Lions Club bingo Proceeds support local sight, hearing, community and youth projects. Doors open 4 p.m. Games begin 7 p.m. Mondays at 4 p.m. Park West Lions Club, 8620 Sunnygate Dr., Manassas. 703-392-0077. pwlions@aol.com. $10.

Bingo Proceeds support Dale City Knights of Columbus activities and charities. Doors open 6 p.m. Games begin 7:30 p.m. VFW Post 1503, 14631 Minnieville Rd., Dale City. 703-491-2378. $9 minimum.

Lake Jackson Mid County Lions Club meeting 6:30 p.m. Great American Steak and Buffet, 8365 Sudley Rd., Manassas. 703-369-6791. Free.

Neighborhood Watch training Session for anyone interested in starting a program; refresher for Neighborhood Watch coordinators and members. Followed by a discussion of community issues. 7 p.m. Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building, Locust Shade conference room, 15941 Donald Curtis Dr., Woodbridge. 703-792-7270. mwhaley@pwcgov.org. pwcgov.org/police. Free, registration required.

Tuesday, JUNE 20

Bingo Proceeds support Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary programs and community activities. Tuesday and Thursday. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Games begin 7:30 p.m. VFW Post 1503, 14631 Minnieville Rd., Dale City. 703-670-4124. $10 minimum.

Friends of Leesylvania Park Regular meeting, new members welcome. The group raises money and supports park programs such as the Junior Rangers, free kids fishing tournaments and Haunted History hikes. 7:30 p.m. Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge. friendsofleesylvania@gmail.com. 703-583-6904. Free.

Wednesday, JUNE 21

Colonial childrens games Learn about games played during the Revolutionary and Civil wars. For children 4 and older. 11 a.m. Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge. 703-583-6904. Free.

Wednesday lunch concert Local guitarist Gary Smallwood performs. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Loy E. Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center St., Manassas. 703-361-9800. harrispavilion.com. Free.

National Active and Retired Federal Employees A meeting for Chapter 356. Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Meeting with guest speaker begins at 12:15 p.m. Hibachi Buffet and Sushi, 8121 Sudley Rd., Manassas. 703-361-1150. Free; attendees pay for lunch.

Serve Our Willing Warriors Town Hall Meet the nonprofits leadership team and volunteers, and learn about upcoming events. 7-8 p.m. Serve Our Willing Warriors Retreat, 16013 Waterfall Rd., Haymarket. 866-227-5853. Free, registration required.

Lake Ridge Toastmasters Club Members 18 and older develop their public speaking and leadership skills. 7:30-9:15 p.m. Tall Oaks Community Center, 12298 Cotton Mill Dr., Lake Ridge. 703-491-3020. contact-8913@toastmastersclubs.org. lakeridge.toastmastersclubs.org. $34-$64 membership fee.

Thursday, JUNE 22

Manassas farmers market Thursday 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and Tuesday 5-8 p.m., Loy E. Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center St. Also Saturday 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Prince William Lot, Prince William Street, Manassas. 703-361-6599. visitmanassas.org.

Prince William County Democratic Committee meeting 7:30 p.m. Edward L. Kelly Leadership Center, 14715 Bristow Rd., Manassas. 571-406-3367.

Friday, JUNE 23

American Legion dinner The public is invited to dinner with a different special every week. Proceeds support local veterans and the community. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Woodbridge American Legion, 3640 Friendly Post Lane, Woodbridge. 703-494-4304. vapost364.org. $5-$15.

Bill Mehr Drop-in Center benefit concert Sponsored by the Prince William Cooperative Council of Ministries, the concert features local Christian and gospel performers. 7-9 p.m. Church on the Move, 13061 Touchstone Cir., Lake Ridge. 571-435-7952. $5-$12.

Jane Eyre Castaways Youth Theatre stages the drama based on Charlotte Brontes novel. 7:30 p.m. Dr. A.J. Ferlazzo Building, 15941 Donald Curtis Dr., Woodbridge. 703-232-1710. Free-$12.

Summer concert series Dave Matthews tribute band Crowded Street performs. 8 p.m. Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center, 15201 Potomac Town Pl., Woodbridge. 703-583-1202. stonebridgeptc.com. Free.

Friday night family movie Bring a blanket or lawn chair for Surfs Up. 8:30 p.m. Loy E. Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center St., Manassas. 703-361-9800. Free.

Saturday, JUNE 24

Yoga on the Lawn Vinyasa yoga taught by certified yoga instructor Christopher Glowacki. 9 a.m. Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge. 703-499-9812. pwcgov.org/ripponlodge. $5.

Home-seller seminar Presented by local real estate broker Bob Hummer. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Strayer University, 13385 Minnieville Rd., Woodbridge. 703-878-4866. military-realestate.com. Free.

Historic downtown walking tour Costumed staff lead tours through historic Manassas. 2 p.m. Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas. 703-257-8453.

Office of Strategic Services history talk In celebration of OSSs 75th anniversary, historian and author Patrick ODonnell discusses the historical legacy of the OSS. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Prince William Forest Park, 18170 Park Entrance Rd., Triangle. 703-221-7181. Free.

Music at the Marina The U.S. Army Band Downrange plays the latest rock, pop, country and R&B hits, as well as patriotic arrangements. 7 p.m. Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge. 703-730-8205. dcr.virginia.gov. Free, parking $7.

Movie Under the Stars Bring a blanket or lawn chair for The Secret Life of Pets. 7 p.m. Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center, 15201 Potomac Town Pl., Woodbridge. 703-583-1202. stonebridgeptc.com. Free.

 Compiled by Sarah Lane

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Almost exactly a year ago, Roxanne Granberry was convicted of helping her husband deal prescription painkillers.

She maintained she had nothing to do with his years-long illegal business, which involved filling fake opioid prescriptions at Washington-area pharmacies and selling the pills on the street. The case involved millions of dollars, tens of thousands of pills and more than a dozen defendants, most of whom pleaded guilty.

Granberry went to trial and was convicted by a jury, too. But last month, all charges against her were dismissed. The federal judge in Virginia who oversaw the trial threw out her conviction, and prosecutors have declined to try her again.

Granberrys attorney, Jack McMahon, said they never should have targeted her in the first place.

This case was abominable, McMahon said. That was the worst case against an individual I have ever seen prosecuted and convicted.

[Woman found guilty for role in husbands opioid scheme]

Several witnesses testified that to their knowledge, Granberry had nothing to do with the opioid operation her husband, William Granberry, ran. She had at times kicked him out of their Hughesville, Md., house, and they maintained separate bank accounts. The witnesses who testified to her culpability were themselves part of the drug business, had lied to authorities and given conflicting accounts. Several had initially said Roxanne Granberry was never involved in the drug trade.

Other than thoroughly impeached testimony, there was little to no evidence concerning [Roxanne Granberrys] knowing and voluntary participation in the conspiracy, Judge Anthony J. Trenga said in his opinion overturning the jurys decision. In fact, there was unrefuted testimony that [she] repeatedly took steps to both stop her husbands illegal activities and also to distance herself from those activities, including physically separating from him.

A jury, however, was convinced that Granberry both participated in and benefited from her husbands illegal activities. They found her guilty after only a few hours of deliberation.

McMahon did not represent Granberry at trial. He said he learned of her case from another client, who had shared a jail cell with Granberrys husband. William Granberry had told the man that his wife was in prison for something he had done.

The system doesnt always work  and then it works, McMahon said.

The office of the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia declined to comment. But former prosecutor Gene Rossi, who led the case against Granberry before leaving his post to run for lieutenant governor, said he thought the judge erred and that the decision should have been appealed.

Rossi said there were several inaccuracies in Trengas opinion, including that Granberry was working full-time and making a six-figure salary throughout the time she was alleged to be a drug dealer.

He argued that it is routine for witnesses to lie to police but tell the truth under oath.

There has never been a drug trial in America where a witness has been completely consistent, Rossi said. If that is the test, every guilty verdict from a jury in a drug case should be set aside.
The Virginia teens were up late observing Ramadan, so they did what young people often do in the wee hours of the weekend: They went out for a bite to eat at McDonalds.

But as they walked and biked back to the All Dulles Area Muslim Society mosque in Sterling, along a major thoroughfare, a red car approached from behind about 3:40 a.m. Sunday and chaos erupted.

The driver, Darwin Martinez Torres, a 22-year-old construction worker from Sterling, got into an argument with a teen on a bike and then drove his car over a curb, scattering the group of as many as 15 teens, police said.

He caught up with them a short time later in a parking lot and chased them with a baseball bat, striking 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen and then abducting her in his car, police said.

Martinez Torres assaulted Nabra a second time, in Loudoun County, before dumping her body in a pond next to his apartment complex, where it was discovered about 3 p.m. on Sunday, police said. The medical examiner ruled Monday that the girl died of blunt-force trauma to the head and neck.

Relatives identified the slain teen as Nabra Hassanen, 17, right, of Reston. (All Dulles Area Muslim Society Center)

The horrific slaying of the South Lakes High School student reverberated beyond Virginia on Monday, as social media lit up with anger and grief, politicians expressed condolences and groups of various faiths condemned the violence.

Many feared it was another hate crime targeting Muslims, coming shortly before a man driving a truck in London plowed into a group of people who had just finished Ramadan prayers. It follows a national upswing in attacks targeting Muslims since the November election.

So far, Fairfax County police said they have no indication that Nabra was targeted because of her religion, saying her killing was probably a road rage incident, although they continue to investigate the motivation.

There was no indication of any racial slurs or any back-and-forth other than a verbal argument, Lt. Bryan Holland said.

The apparent lack of a hate crime offered little consolation to Nabras family. Mohmoud Hassanen said that he and his firstborn daughter were always close. She used to be like my friend, not my daughter, he said.

They would go out to eat together, and she would talk about her favorite music, her love of fashion, her wide circle of friends. On Monday, he was remembering those conversations and choking up. I hope shes in paradise.

I dont want any family to feel like what I feel now, Hassanen said. Its too hard. I raised my daughter for 17 years. Somebody took her life for no reason.

Darwin Martinez Torres, 22, of Sterling, has been charged in the teens death. (Fairfax County Police)

The incident began between 2 and 3 a.m., when a group of four or five teens left the ADAMS Center during an overnight gathering to get that late-night meal, family members and police said.

Members of the mosque said it was not uncommon for young people to go to the nearby McDonalds or IHOP to eat before the Ramadan fast resumed at daybreak. The McDonalds is about a mile from the mosque.

The teens were returning to the mosque along Dranesville Road near Woodson Drive in Herndon when they encountered Martinez Torres. The road is wide at that location, with a bike lane, sidewalk and lined by trees in parts.

The ADAMS Center is near the border between Fairfax and Loudoun counties.

Tawny Wright, a Fairfax police spokeswoman, said a 911 call was placed at 4:08 a.m. on Sunday for a report of a motorist trying to run down the teens. Wright said officers were dispatched to take a preliminary report from the teens and a search was quickly launched for Nabra that eventually included dogs, a helicopter and multiple police units from Loudoun and Fairfax counties.

About 5:15 a.m., Wright said an officer noticed a car that kept circling back to the scene where the reported dispute began and where Nabra disappeared. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle.

Wright said the officer became suspicious of the driver for reasons she declined to discuss, and Martinez Torres was arrested. The search continued for Nabra throughout the day Sunday, until, Wright said, police developed information that Nabras body was in a man-made pond near Martinez Torress apartment building. The location is about three miles from where Nabra disappeared.

Wright said detectives are still trying to piece together what happened between the assault on Nabra at about 4 a.m. and when her body was discovered. Wright declined to say what Martinez Torres has told police and said police had found some items of evidence. It is unclear whether prosecutors from Loudoun or Fairfax will take the lead on the case because the alleged crimes in the incident crossed county lines.

Hassanen, the father of Nabra, said that he feels sure his daughter was killed because of her religion.

He killed her because shes a Muslim  this is what I tell the detective, Hassanen said. Why was he running behind the kids wearing Islamic clothes with a baseball stick? Why, when my daughter fell down, why did he hit her? For what? We dont know this guy. He doesnt know us. We dont hate anybody because of religion or color. I teach my kids to love everybody.

[What happens when tragedy strikes Muslims during Ramadan]

Martinez Torres was held without bond following a brief arraignment Monday in Fairfax County juvenile court. All cases involving juveniles are heard in juvenile court in Virginia, even when defendants are adults.

Appearing on a video monitor from the county jail, Martinez Torres spoke through a Spanish translator to answer a judges questions. He was appointed a public defender, and his next court appearance was set for July 19. U.S. immigration officials requested that a detainer be placed on him at the county jail, meaning they are interested in possible future deportation proceedings.

Fairfax prosecutors offered no new information about the case during the Monday hearing for Martinez Torres and declined to comment afterward.

An aunt who was at the court but declined to give her name said Martinez Torress family is shocked and mystified about the charges against him.

The aunt said Martinez Torres was at a Sterling park with her mother hours before the incident. She said Martinez Torres left the park at about 11:30 p.m. Saturday to head home.

Family members said the man worked in construction. He is Salvadoran and has a 4-year-old son and a girlfriend. He attended school briefly in the United States.

The aunt said she thought that Martinez Torres did not know Nabra, adding that family members also did not know the girl.

I cant believe it, the aunt said. He is nice with my mom. He is nice with my family. Hes a nice dad.

No one responded Monday when a reporter visited a home address associated with Martinez Torres.

Neighbors who gathered in and outside the Hassanens apartment Sunday night, both Muslim and Christian, described the teen as unusually respectful, calling older neighbors sir and maam and helping watch small children both at home and at the mosque.

No one could believe that the timid and conflict-averse teen would argue with a stranger on the street.

Nabras personality, she gets scared very easily, said her mother, Sawsan Gazzar. Nabra doesnt even fight with her sisters. Shes very scared.

Based on her conversations with detectives, Gazzar said she thought that the driver shouted at the teens and threw beer bottles at them.

Nabras father said he tried to put that lesson  to love everybody in practical terms, taking his four daughters to pack food for the hungry each Thanksgiving to demonstrate the importance of caring for others. Nabra learned it well, he said  she befriended everyone, Muslim and non-Muslim.

But Hassanen couldnt face the unthinkable task confronting him as a parent on Monday morning, when his youngest daughter, 3-year-old Amarose, looked up at him and asked, Wheres Nabra?

I dont have no answer, he said. I just kissed her and left.

Sarah Pulliam Bailey, Faiz Siddiqui, Dana Hedgpeth and Jennifer Jenkins contributed to this report.
Authorities are investigating in the aftermath of a possible barricade situation at a Maryland store that ended when police went inside and did not find anyone, investigators said.

The incident began around 9 a.m. and stretched for several hours, shutting down sections of a street near the Hyattsville business Monday morning. By 2 p.m., Prince Georges County police announced that a team made safe entry into the building and that no one was found inside the store.

Investigators said the barricade situation began shortly after a store employee alerted a passerby about an attempted robbery inside a business in the 6400 block of Annapolis Road.

Police said the employee walked into the store around 9 a.m. and was assaulted by a gunman several minutes later. At some point, the employee escaped the store and flagged down a passerby, who called authorities.

The employee, who never saw the gunman leave the store, watched the business the entire time before police arrived, investigators said.

Officers tried to contact the gunman multiple times, added police, who closed Annapolis Road in both directions between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Cooper Lane.

After five hours, authorities said the building was cleared and road closures in the area were lifted.

Police did not release any further information.
Lou Glickfield, who founded Marlo Furniture with wife Marilyn, seeks similar success in art sales. Here hes at his office/gallery in Rockville, Md. (John Kelly/The Washington Post)

Lou Glickfield, the Furniture King of Washington, doesnt need the money.

This is a passion, Lou says of his latest venture. He says he has already sunk over a million dollars into an online art gallery that sells the work of more than 45 contemporary artists. But whos counting?

I told you, Im not in it for the money, Lou says of VanGohArt.com. (VanGoghArt.com was taken.)

You know Lou because in 1963 he took the first three letters from his wife Marilyns name and the first two letters from his name and combined them to name their new business venture: Marlo Furniture.

Their ads were everywhere: in The Washington Post and on TV. In one spot, local actor Terrence Currier danced through a cavernous Marlo warehouse while singing a jingle set to the tune of Yankee Doodle Dandy: Everybody goes to Marlo, cause they know the prices are low.

We used to have 170 salesmen, says Lou, 85.

He started shining shoes at age 7 in his native New York. As a teenager, he worked as a bellboy and ran a little operation out of a hotel closet selling toiletries  tissues, toothpaste, razor blades  to guests.

When my dad was making $18 a week, I was making $250, Lou says. I felt so proud to be able to give it to my mother, who needed it.

When Lou was in the Army, stationed at Aberdeen Proving Ground, he would run down to a toy wholesaler in Baltimore and buy dolls  pull a string and she would say a prayer  to sell to his fellow GIs.

I learned everything by doing, Lou says.

By the time Lou got out of the Army, he had saved $5,000. He went to Harry Cohen, who ran the Thieves Market antiques store on Route 1 in Virginia. Ill give you the $5,000, Lou told him. Just teach me.

The two were partners for a while. When the Wardman Park Hotel was getting rid of its furniture, Lou bought it and stuck it in a disused grocery store on 17th Street NW. He called that store Ali Babas. A few years later, he opened Marlo Furniture.

My biggest advantage was I would go and buy these surplus inventories from the factories at huge discounts, Lou says.

He would pass those discounts on to his customers. Marlo occupied the middle of the market. We were selling to the average person, Lou says.

Marlo is still around, although Lou doesnt own it anymore. In 2012, he sold the business and the name. But he kept the buildings, including the colossal white flagship in Rockville. And thats where I meet him on a recent afternoon, in his top-floor office, where an ocular window overlooks Rockville Pike.

This lady who used to be the mayor of Rockville, she said we built the ugliest building in Rockville, Lou recalls.

I ask Lou if that hurt his feelings.

A little bit, he says. Not much.

Still, it made him curious.

I wanted to find out if it is ugly, he says. I asked other people, and I found out that was just her opinion.

One of the people Lou asked was his daughter. She said, Dad, this is like the big pyramids built thousands of years ago. It is what it is. 

Today, what once housed the Marlo corporate offices holds Lous art. Theres room after room: landscapes, seascapes, portraits, abstracts, animals, flowers. Photos, too. It ranges from representational to gently surrealist, all of it colorful and happyish.

You might not see these artworks in the Hirshhorn or the National Gallery, but Lou thinks theres a market. Back when he ran Marlo, he was in charge of buying the art. We sold 400, 500 pieces a month, he says.

Lou will help you buy the originals, but what hes really selling are what he calls embellished prints. These are giclees, inkjet printed onto canvas that the artist then reworks with paint so no two versions are alike. Prints are available in 17 sizes, averaging from around $300 to $800.

I have artists today who are working very hard, Lou says. Theyre wonderful people. Theyre very bright, and they work so hard, showing at art shows all over America. They really dont make much money, by the time they set up and drag their stuff. And if it rains, they lose money.

So: VanGohArt.com. For now, anyway. A lot of people find the name confusing so Lou will probably transition to LouisLeonardGallery.com (his first and middle names).

We walk around the gallery, me and Lou, accompanied by his assistant of two months, a Corcoran art school graduate named Jhoane Garcia.

I still have a lot to learn, Jhoane says.

Shes an artist, Lou says. To be a business lady is different.

But then I realize: The Furniture King is an artist, too. You just cant hang his creations on the wall.

Twitter: @johnkelly

For previous columns, visit washingtonpost.com/johnkelly.
Commuters at the Twinbrook Metro station in Rockville board a shuttle bus to Rockville and Shady Grove stations on Monday. (Rachel Siegel /The Washington Post)

By 6:48 a.m. Monday, Robbie Morton had already had enough of her morning commute. Normally, her ride from Rockville Metro station to Farragut North in downtown Washington takes about 30 minutes, but the first weekday commute of the final SafeTrack surge was giving Morton and her fellow riders a particularly bad case of the Monday blues.

With both the Rockville and Shady Grove stations closed by the surge, Morton had to be dropped off at a 7-Eleven on Rockville Pike, followed by a 10-minute walk to the Twinbrook Station, where the western end Red Line begins service for the duration of the surge.

Im not a happy camper, Morton, 75, said from the crowded platform before jumping on an arriving train.

[Metros last SafeTrack surge will shutter part of the Red Line for 9 days]

The 16th and final SafeTrack surge began Saturday and concludes Sunday. The project involves work on a five-mile stretch of track between Shady Grove and Twinbook; Shady Grove and Rockville stations are closed. While this is the last surge of the year-long SafeTrack program, much work remains. Earlier this month, Metro announced that over the next year, parts of the Green, Red and Yellow lines will close for projects similar to the SafeTrack surges. The new projects, scheduled to start in August, are designed to target small sections of track and last for 10 commuting days each.

(Claritza Jimenez/The Washington Post)

But on Monday, riders who might have otherwise celebrated the end of SafeTrack looked to the future work with resentment.

Even before a reporter could ask about how additional repairs to the Red Line would affect her commute, Lori Nugent, 55, interrupted, It sucks.

Theyre going fix this, and whats going to be next? she said.

Nugent, who typically begins her ride at Rockville to get to Pentagon City, said it was unthinkable to drive to work rather than take Metro, given heavy traffic and the need to pick kids up after school or camp. This is still reliable, but its still a nightmare, she said.

By 7 a.m., Twinbrooks main parking lot was full, leaving riders to compete for spaces in an adjacent garage or in lots across the street. Commuters also had the option of riding shuttle buses that Metro is running to replace service between Twinbrook, Rockville and Shady Grove.

Metro spokeswoman Sherri Ly said this surge got off to a relatively smooth start Monday morning and that it appeared many riders opted to start their commutes at Twinbrook or Grosvenor rather than rely on the shuttles. Red Line ridership was down 9 percent compared with last year, she said, with ridership beyond the surge area relatively unchanged. Ly added that more than 50 buses shuttled riders between Twinbrook and the closed stations.

Tonya Lee caught one of those shuttles to get to her job at Washington Adventist Hospital. Lee, 56, normally catches a 7:30 or 7:35 a.m. Montgomery County Ride On bus that leaves from Shady Grove. As her shuttle crawled along the stretch of road between Twinbrook and Shady Grove, Lees eyes rarely left the digital clock at the front of the bus.

Im looking at the time, but I dont know how far we are, she said at 7:29 a.m. I dont know if we can get around this corner in four minutes.

There was little time to wait after Lees shuttle pulled into the Shady Grove lot at 7:32.

On a shuttle leaving from Shady Grove toward Twinbrook, John Tomlin was among the few unbothered by the surge. Tomlin, 71, usually rides Metro from Shady Grove to Judiciary Square to get to his job at the Labor Department. He considered driving to the Twinbrook station rather than taking the shuttle but said he didnt mind letting someone else drive me there.

I dont let things disrupt my routine of life, he said. If it adds some time, it adds some time.

Tomlin said that he has been riding Metro since it opened in 1976 and that he wouldnt work downtown if not for Metro.

Still, he has not been immune to more recent problems on the rails. Tomlin said that shortly after Metro introduced its new 7000-series rail cars in April 2015, he was riding one of the cars when the doors failed to open. Eventually the doors in another car opened and passengers were able to exit from that one. And Tomlin said it was no coincidence that he planned a vacation to see his father in Florida during Surge No. 7 in August.

Even among commuters who budgeted extra time to get to work Monday, some acknowledged that while they know the work is important, the improvements arent always apparent to inconvenienced riders.

Christopher Song said the shuttle from Rockville to Twinbrook took twice as long as Metro would have.

Hopefully its safer, Song, 23, of Rockville, said. Thats not the kind of thing you can normally tell.
Ten Maryland legislators are proposing a radical overhaul of Metros board and a flexible, equitably shared funding plan that would yield the $500 million in dedicated funding proposed by Metro General Manager Paul J. Wiedefeld.

In a 29-page Metro reform proposal released Monday, the lawmakers, who are from Montgomery and Prince Georges counties, call for significant governance and oversight changes, and separate, $170 million annual payments from Maryland, Virginia and the District to support Metros long-term needs. The funds would be put into a new capital trust fund that would allow for bonding, substantially increasing Metros long-term borrowing abilities.

The proposal does not lay out a specific funding mechanism, leaving it to each jurisdiction to determine how to come up with its share  an acknowledgment of the significant disagreements over how to support the troubled systems financial needs.

Our thinking is, here are some very serious governance and oversight changes that we think can make everyone feel a lot more comfortable that theyre not throwing good money after bad, said Del. Erek L. Barron (D-Prince Georges), co-chairman of a work group in Annapolis dedicated to Metro issues.

Barron is one of the 10 lawmakers  all Democrats  who signed the plan.

The proposal is one of several floated in recent months by influential think tanks, business and labor groups, and regional officials to turn around the troubled system. But this plan, a copy of which was provided to The Washington Post, represents the most detailed and comprehensive proposal so far by lawmakers in any of the jurisdictions Metro serves.

Metro must make sure riders, taxpayers, and other stakeholders understand where their money is going and what they are getting in return, the plan reads. Metro must be accountable to those that use it and pay for it, and not just be a faceless bureaucracy. Whatever reforms are adopted, an actual vision to achieve a system that works must be agreed to by all jurisdictions and management.

[Regions governments: Metro needs dedicated funding, but everything else is TBD]

Governance is at the center of the reforms proposed. The plan calls for a new, streamlined governing board that would consist of only the Maryland and Virginia transportation secretaries and the Districts director of transportation. Motions would pass with a two-vote threshold and there would be no jurisdictional veto, meaning dissent from one locality served could not alone sink a resolution, as is the case now.

The federal government would not have a formal vote, although it and local jurisdictions could appoint nonvoting members to represent them at board meetings, according to the proposal.

The current board structure, long criticized as unwieldy, calls for 16 members  eight voting and eight alternate  who represent the states and localities served by Metro and the federal government.

When everyone is in charge, no one is in charge, the Maryland proposal says.

On another critical issue  funding  the proposal is slightly more ambiguous, a tacit acknowledgment that the District, Maryland and Virginia have yet to find common ground on how to fund the system. District officials favor a regionwide sales tax, but Virginia Republicans have called such a proposal a nonstarter. A regional sales tax has gained some support in Montgomery. Prince Georges officials have not endorsed such a tax and worry that the labor reforms many of the various plans propose will adversely impact Metros workforce, a significant portion of whom reside in the county.

The lawmakers would prefer that Marylands $170 million of new funding for Metro come from the states Transportation Trust Fund, supported by fuel and titling taxes, among other sources. But that would face major political obstacles, as legislators outside of Montgomery and Prince Georges would object to shifting money from the trust fund to Metro, thus depleting funds available for roads, bridges and other projects outside the Washington suburbs. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) has flatly ruled out raising taxes on the entire state to pay for Metro.

[Prince Georges wary of Metro dedicated funding proposal, presenting additional hurdle to Wiedefeld plan]

In recognition of that political reality, the legislators proposal says the fresh money for Metro could instead come from new taxes to be levied only in Montgomery and Prince Georges if the funding or the bond rating obtained [through the Trust Fund] were inadequate. That alternative is in line with most other proposals aired in recent months, which call for raising taxes only in the District and in the Maryland and Virginia suburbs served by Metro.

Officials in Maryland consider the document a road map to potential legislation at the local, state and federal levels to turn Metro around. Some of the changes supported by state lawmakers would require reopening the agencys 50-year-old compact  its governing document. Wiedefeld has not endorsed doing that but other officials have said may be necessary.

Its a bit of a first salvo to begin conversation, at least, on the Maryland side, said an official involved in the discussions. Its the first set of discussion points to get us to where I think we need to be by the end of the year, and certainly by the first day of [the legislative] session in January, said the official, who was not authorized to speak on the proposal in advance of its release and asked not to be named.

The official went on to say the proposal represents a starting point for discussions, not a firm our way or the highway. 

Wiedefeld laid out his own reform plan for the system in April, calling for $15.5 billion over 10 years for capital needs, including $500 million in new, annual dedicated funding, and a slew of labor concessions from Metros unions. A technical panel of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments has said that Metro needs $650 million in annual dedicated funding and endorsed a regionwide 1 percent sales tax to raise it. The Council of Governments itself has not endorsed a specific funding proposal but approved a resolution last week supporting dedicated, bondable funding.

[Metro GM proposes new business model and $500 million a year in extra funding to save D.C.-area transit agency]

The Maryland plan eschews the calls of some officials in the region for labor reforms, instead favoring strengthened oversight through a beefed-up inspector generals office. Virginia Republicans have said any increases in funding should be tied to labor concessions.

Maryland officials believe, however, that better oversight through the inspector general and a streamlined board are likely to be popular with Republicans. Under their proposal, the inspector general would be granted broader oversight authority, a longer term (seven years, rather than five) and a fixed percentage of the budget for the offices needs. The inspector general would serve at the pleasure of the board and report directly to it but would operate independently. The inspector general would have unrestricted access to all Metro records and the authority to conduct investigations into criminal, civil and administrative matters, according to the proposal.

The proposal also calls for Metro to adopt a new strategic plan outlining long-term goals and to renew and revise such a plan every five years. It points to a 2005 Transportation Research Board report that found strategic planning was instrumental in creating a new vision for the agency, or in helping to give the entire agency a sense of direction.

The lawmakers also suggest an overhaul of Metros Riders Advisory Council, which has been criticized in recent years for waning influence on topics relevant to the systems riders.

The plan says the council is crippled by an appointment process that does not hold RAC members accountable to any one jurisdiction or local government, but ties them closely to Metro and makes them reliant on Metros bureaucracy. The proposal calls for a council consisting of three committees, representing rail, bus and paratransit riders. Members would be appointed by the District and the jurisdictions served by Metro; the Districts mayor and state governors could each appoint a member representing businesses within a half-mile of a Metro station.

Del. Marc A. Korman (D-Montgomery) appeared to hint at the coming overhaul proposal after a Council of Governments meeting last week, where he named reforms to the RAC and a strategic plan as two issues to explore.

I hope were on a road to dedicated funding by this time next year. But I also think dedicated funding alone is not the answer, he said last week. The problem with Metro is not just funding. Money helps. I want them to have dedicated funding, but there are other issues there with the management, with the governance, that need to be addressed.

The legislators who signed on to the proposal were Sens. Joanne C. Benson (D-Prince Georges) and Brian J. Feldman (D-Montgomery) and Dels. Barron, Korman, David Moon (D-Montgomery), Andrew Platt (D-Montgomery), Jheanelle K. Wilkins (D-Montgomery), Jazz M. Lewis (D-Prince Georges), Carlo Sanchez (D-Prince Georges) and Jimmy Tarlau (D-Prince Georges).


Activists Dawn Chapman, right, and Karen Nickel wear protective masks at the Superfund site near their homes in Bridgeton, Mo. Known as the West Lake Landfill, it includes underground waste that has been smoldering for years adjacent to nuclear waste from the World War II-era Manhattan Project. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post)

Dawn Chapman had listened with surprise and skepticism as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency vowed to clean up West Lake, the nuclear waste dump that has filled her days and nights with worry.

The past administration honestly just didnt pay attention to [it], Scott Pruitt stressed on a local radio show in April. Were going to get things done at West Lake. The days of talking are over.

The next month, Pruitt took to television to say a plan for the site was coming very soon as part of his push to prioritize Superfund cleanups across the country. Its not a matter of money, he said. Its a matter of leadership and attitude and management.

On a blue-sky afternoon, Chapman sat in her small home in this leafy St. Louis suburb and mulled the latest set of promises from Washington  this time from a man known more for suing the EPA and rolling back environmental regulations than for cracking down on pollution.

Why our site? Why now? Can he keep those promises? the mother of three wondered. Her family lives only a couple of miles from West Lake, a contaminated landfill that contains thousands of tons of waste from the World War II-era Manhattan Project. My biggest fear is hes just going to put a Band-Aid on it.

1 of 7 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Life next to a Superfund cleanup site View Photos Radioactive waste was dumped at the West Lake Landfill outside of St. Louis in the 1970s, and the EPAs project to protect the area from contaminants has not been completed. Caption Radioactive waste was dumped at the West Lake Landfill outside of St. Louis in the 1970s, and the EPAs project to protect the area from contaminants has not been completed. June 1, 2017 Activists Dawn Chapman, left, and Karen Nickel wear protective masks at the Superfund site near their homes in Bridgeton, Mo. Known as the West Lake Landfill, it includes underground waste that has been smoldering for years adjacent to nuclear waste from the World War II-era Manhattan Project. Linda Davidson/The Washington Post Wait 1 second to continue.

In Bridgeton and elsewhere, others are asking similar questions with various degrees of hope and hesitation. In his previous role as Oklahomas attorney general, Pruitt had long-standing ties to oil and gas companies and a litigious history fighting the EPA. And although he has called the federal Superfund program vital and a cornerstone of the EPAs mission, the Trump administration has proposed slashing its funding by 30 percent.

With more than 1,300 Superfund sites nationwide  some of which have lingered for decades on the EPAs ever-growing priorities list  its unclear how Pruitt will back up his professed commitment in an age of scorched-earth budgets. Critics worry that a single-minded focus on speeding up the process could lead to inadequate cleanups.

(The Washington Post)

Pruitt has largely dismissed such issues. He argues that the program is beset more by bloated administrative costs and a shortage of initiative than by budget woes, and he notes that, at most sites, private funding is available from firms deemed responsible for cleanups.

This agency has not responded to Superfund with the type of urgency and commitment that the people of this country deserve, Pruitt reiterated Wednesday  days before a contingent from Bridgeton would arrive in Washington in hopes of meeting with him. He said he understands communities distrust, not just about West Lake but many sites. Im very sensitive and sympathetic to what their concerns are, he said. This agency has failed them. . . . They have a right to be skeptical.

That they are. Residents in the shadow of Superfund sites remain wary of his pronouncements.

Actions speak louder than words, said BrieAnn McCormick, whose neighborhood is closest to West Lake.

[Trumps budget would take a sledgehammer to the EPA]

Families here have long lived with the reality of the site, which got its Superfund designation in 1990. The 200 acres include not just the radioactive waste that was illegally dumped in 1973, but also an adjacent landfill where decomposing trash as deep as 150 feet is smoldering in what scientists call a subsurface burning event. The fire is now about 600 feet from that other waste.

West Lake has made Bridgeton the kind of place where some parents drive their children to playgrounds far from the landfill. Where some people keep homemade kits in their cars  face masks for days the stench hits, eyedrops for irritation, Tylenol for headaches. Where others trade stories of cancers, autoimmune diseases and miscarriages theyre scared could be related to the Superfund site, although air, water and soil tests from the EPA and other government agencies have shown no link.





Activists fault the EPA for moving at a glacial pace. They accuse Republic Services, which took ownership of the landfill in 2008, of trying to avoid full-fledged cleanup.

Similar dynamics are playing out at many Superfund sites, where abandoned mines, contaminated rivers and manufacturing plants have left behind a daunting trail of lead, arsenic, mercury and other harmful substances. Some mega sites involve tracing hundreds of chemicals and scores of polluters.

Pruitt recently issued a directive saying that he plans to be more directly involved in decisions about Superfund cleanups, particularly ones in excess of $50 million. He established a Superfund task force, which is expected to report back this week on how to restructure the program in ways that favor expeditious remediation, reduce the burden on firms responsible for cleanups and encourage private investment in the program.

If this were some other world, it might be easy to believe they are trying to move things faster and in the right way, said Nancy Loeb, director of the Environmental Advocacy Center at Northwestern Universitys Pritzker School of Law. I dont want to say the Obama administration did a great job on Superfund; they didnt. . . . But I fear [this administration] cutting its budget and giving access to the administrator for all big companies who want to come and talk is a death knell for meaningful cleanups.

***

When Congress established the Superfund program in 1980, lawmakers gave the EPA legal powers to force polluters to pay to fix the messes they had created. They also created a tax on the petroleum and chemical industries to offset expensive, complicated cleanups when a polluting company had gone bankrupt or could not be identified.

The tax generated billions of dollars for cleanups. But Congress allowed it to expire in 1995, and by 2003 the industry-funded trust fund was essentially broke. Lawmakers have chipped away at Superfunds budget since. The program gets about $1.1 billion a year, about half what it did in 1999.





As funding dwindled throughout the 2000s, the pace of cleanups also declined. President Trump has proposed to slash $330 million more from the program annually.

Either cut the budget or make things go better for Superfund. Pick one. You cant do both, said Peter deFur, who has consulted on Superfund sites for more than two decades.

He and other experts acknowledge the agency hasnt always moved quickly enough. But they are concerned Pruitts focus on accelerating cleanups might lead to simplistic solutions that leave lingering environmental risks to nearby communities, which disproportionately are poor and minority.

The cheapest and quickest option is not always the best, deFur said. Its dangerous to not get it right the first time.

Mathy Stanislaus, who oversaw the program throughout the Obama administration, was troubled by the language Pruitt used in setting up the Superfund task force  a group led by a former Oklahoma banker whose resume includes no environmental experience.

Nothing in his charge . . . talks about the public health dimension, Stanislaus said. That, from my perspective, is revealing.

Pruitt insists that letting polluted sites just languish does nothing to protect public health.

Listen, these [responsible companies] across the country are going to be held accountable, he said Wednesday. Theyre going to get these areas cleaned up, or they are going to be sued by this agency.

Despite West Lakes complex challenges, the long-awaited cleanup could move forward relatively soon. For one, there are viable parties on the hook to pay the costs. (Republic Services is one of three potentially responsible parties that would shoulder the remediation.) And with the EPAs site investigation largely complete, officials already planned to make a final decision this year on how cleanup would proceed, according to former regional administrator Mark Hague.

My goal was to get this decision done and done right with solid science and engineering behind it, Hague said. This is not a place to take shortcuts. . . . At the end of the day, youve got to be able to tell people that what weve done will be protective of human health and the environment.

Although some nearby residents have pushed for a full removal of the radioactive material, a solution that could cost in excess of $400 million, Republic Services has maintained that capping the site with layers of rock, clay and soil would be sufficient and would avoid the risks associated with disturbing the nuclear waste. Its approach would cost closer to $50 million.

Company spokesman Russ Knocke said claims about health dangers are unfounded and unnecessarily divisive. Theres too much fearmongering. Theres too much misinformation, and at some point science has to carry the day, he said. The landfill is safe, it is in a managed state, and accusations of the contrary are simply false.

There is one thing the company and activists agree on when it comes to a cleanup, however. Its taken too long, Knocke said. We certainly welcome the priority the new administrator is placing on the site.



A view of the West Lake Superfund site northwest of St. Louis. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post)

Yet even with Pruitts renewed sense of urgency, tapping private dollars is not an option at some Superfund locations. At these orphaned sites, polluting companies long ago went bankrupt or ceased to be liable, and the cleanup responsibilities now fall mostly to the federal government. Its difficult to envision such places getting fixed without an adequate Superfund budget.

If we feel like the numbers of the budget are not sufficient to address those, well be sure to let Congress know, Pruitt said.

Funding is whats needed in St. Louis, Mich., a small town that was once a hub for DDT manufacturing. The site of the former Velsicol Chemical Corp. there remains among the most contaminated anywhere. Nearly 40 years after the plants closure, robins still sometimes drop dead out of the sky after having eaten tainted worms from the soil.

We are just waiting for money from EPA, said Jane Keon, who helped found a local citizens task force. The group saw an opportunity after Pruitt vowed to prioritize the Superfund program.

We request that you consider funding our site as an excellent public relations example, it wrote him in a letter. All we need now to get underway is several million dollars. . . . If you can get those dollars to us, [remediation] work can begin at once, and you would have an example to point to.

***

In and around Bridgeton, the waiting also continues. People like Meagan Beckermann, pregnant with her third child, weigh whether to leave or stay.

For us, its constantly, What if?  she said.

On that sunny afternoon this month, Dawn Chapman stopped to visit Karen Nickel, who for years had no idea she was raising her four children down the road from a Superfund site.

The pair co-founded Just Moms, a group advocating to clean up West Lake or relocate families living close by. As they sat at Nickels kitchen table, they fretted that Pruitt might indeed allow the radioactive waste to be capped in place rather than removed  a solution the EPA had proposed almost a decade ago before reconsidering.

Its got to be done the right way, Chapman said, as Nickel nodded in agreement. Theres no Harry Potter wand here.



Chapman and her children, from left, Sophie, Connor and Quinn, at a park in a neighboring community. Some parents in Bridgeton are reluctant to let children play outside there because of concerns about the nearby Superfund site. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post)

Not far away in Spanish Village, the small development closer to West Lake than any other, BrieAnn McCormick stood on her front porch, gazing out toward the playground her children never visit. The neighborhood seemed so normal, with its freshly mowed lawns and tidy sidewalks. Balloons fluttered from a nearby house, celebrating a new babys arrival.

McCormick, a teacher, is tired of worrying about the nuclear waste just over the hill. She and her husband recently decided they no longer will depend on Pruitt or anyone else to finally act.

Im meeting with a Realtor this afternoon, she said. It bothers me, the idea of selling this to someone else. But I just have to get my kids out of here.

A few days later, a sign showed up in her yard. An open house was held Sunday.
WASHINGTON

Pregnant women killed by Seattle police

Seattle police officers shot and killed a woman at her apartment Sunday morning in front of several children when the woman, who relatives said was pregnant, confronted them with a knife, according authorities.

The Seattle Times reported that the 30-year-old woman had called police to report a possible burglary.

At a vigil Sunday night, family members identified the woman as Charleena Lyles, according to the Times, and relatives said she had a history of mental-health struggles. She was several months pregnant, her family said, and too tiny for officers to have felt threatened by her  even if she had a knife.

Why couldnt they have Tased her? Lyless sister, Monika Williams, said to the Seattle Times.

On Sunday morning just before 10 a.m., two patrol officers were dispatched to investigate a reported burglary at Brettler Family Place, an apartment complex for people transitioning out of homelessness, according to Detective Mark Jamieson.

Officers walked to the fourth floor and at some point, the 30-year-old female was armed with a knife, Jamieson told reporters. Both officers, who have not been identified, fired their weapons. They performed CPR, according to authorities, but Lyles was later declared dead by fire department officials at the scene.

Children inside at the time were not injured, according to police. Officials did not say whether they were Lyless children.

King County jail records show that Lyles was arrested June 5 on charges of harassment, obstruction of a public official and harassment of a law enforcement officer. She was released conditionally on June 14.

The departments Force Investigation Team is investigating the officers decision to use deadly force. Both officers will be placed on administrative leave during the investigation, authorities said.

 Katie Mettler and Mark Berman

MISSOURI

Removal of Confederate monument halted

A judge has issued an injunction that will temporarily prevent the city of St. Louis from removing a Confederate monument from Forest Park.

St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Robert Dierker on Monday issued the injunction and set a July 6 hearing for arguments over whether the city or the Missouri Civil War Museum owns the monument.

The museum filed a lawsuit Friday against the city, contending the United Daughters of the Confederacy signed over the ownership rights to the monument last week.

The city contends it controls the monument and wants to remove it soon.

Dierkers ruling came as city workers were installing steel rigging on the structure Monday in preparation for removing the 38-foot monument.

 Associated Press

Man accused of stomping kitten to death: A southern Illinois man accused of stomping a kitten to death because he wasnt allowed to take it on a light-rail train has been charged with felony animal cruelty. DeCarlos Johnson-Foston, 23, is jailed on $75,000 bond. St. Clair County Sheriffs Capt. Bruce Fleshren says Johnson-Foston was at a Belleville MetroLink station Friday with a kitten on his shoulder. A security guard told him the cat would not be allowed on the train. Fleshren says Johnson-Foston slammed the kitten to the platform and stomped on its head, then walked away and left on a bus. Police say they tracked him to a bus stop and discovered that he had also stolen a wallet while riding the bus. Belleville is 15 miles southeast of St. Louis.

Boy, 16, arrested in theft of gun from mall store: Police have arrested a 16-year-old boy accused of breaking into a Massachusetts sporting goods store at a mall and stealing a gun and ammunition. Police responded to an alarm at Dicks Sporting Goods at the Square One Mall in Saugus at about 4:30 a.m. Monday and found a front window broken. Police say the boy got the long gun from a locked rack within the store. It hasnt been recovered. Police reviewed store surveillance video and apprehended the suspect at his Everett home about 5 miles away at about 11:30 a.m. Area schools sheltered in place for several hours until the arrest. The mall opened at about 1 p.m., except for Dicks.

 From news services
ENGLAND

Towers cladding

may have been illegal

The exterior cladding used in a renovation of Londons Grenfell Tower may have been banned under U.K. building regulations, two British ministers said Sunday as police continued their criminal investigation into an inferno that killed at least 58 people.

Greg Hands, the trade minister, said the government is carrying out an urgent inspection of about 2,500 similar tower blocks across Britain to assess their safety.

Experts think that the exterior cladding, which contained insulation, helped spread the flames quickly up the outside of the public housing tower on Wednesday morning. Some said they had never seen a building fire advance so quickly. The 24-story tower, which once housed as many as 600 people in 120 apartments, is now a charred ruin.

Hands and finance minister Philip Hammond said in separate TV appearances that the cladding used on Grenfell seems to be prohibited by British regulations. Hands cautioned that officials do not have exact details about the renovation that ended just last year.

Aluminum cladding with insulation sandwiched between two panels has been blamed for helping to spread flames in fires in many parts of the world.

 Associated Press

SYRIA

Government and Iraqi troops meet at border

Syrian troops and allied militias met up with Iraqi forces at one crossing point along their shared border Sunday for the first time in years, in a step described as a major achievement by the Syrian military in their fight against the Islamic State group.

The development reported by pro-government media Sunday comes a day after Iraqi forces captured a border crossing point with Syria, al-Waleed, from the Islamic State militants. It was not immediately clear if the Syrian forces reached a new point along their border with Iraq or whether it was the Iraqi forces that had moved northeast of their newly captured point.

The U.S.-led coalition said it was aware of the Iraqi forces maneuvers along the border, which highlight Baghdads resolve to fight the Islamic State. The maneuvers have no impact on the U.S. presence nearby, a coalition official said.

U.S. Army Col. Joe Scrocca, the coalitions public affairs director, said that the decisions of the Iraqi security forces are theirs alone, but that they advise the U.S.-led coalition of their operations.

 Associated Press

IRAN

Guard launches strikes after attack on Tehran

Irans Revolutionary Guard said Sunday it launched missiles into eastern Syria targeting Islamic State militants in response to an attack on Irans parliament and a shrine in Tehran, warning that it would similarly retaliate on anyone else carrying out attacks in Iran.

The launch of surface-to-surface medium-range missiles into Syrias Deir el-Zour province comes as Islamic State militants fleeing a U.S.-led coalition onslaught increasingly try to fortify their positions there.

Activists in Syria said they had no immediate information on damage or casualties from the strikes, launched from Irans Kurdistan and Kermanshah provinces. Social media was awash in shaky mobile-phone footage from those areas, allegedly showing the missiles rise in an orange glow before heading toward their targets .

Sundays assault marked a rare direct attack from the Islamic Republic amid its support for embattled Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

 Associated Press

Israel revokes permits over attacks: Israel revoked on Sunday the permits of 200,000 Palestinians to enter Israel that were approved for the holy month of Ramadan, after two nearly simultaneous Palestinian attacks on police that killed a young female officer near Jerusalems Old City. Earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said preparations are underway to destroy the homes of the Palestinian attackers and tighten security at the entrance to the Old City.

Romanian government gets no-confidence vote: Romanias ruling party submitted a no-confidence vote against its government Sunday after it withdrew its support for the prime minister. Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu has refused to quit, sparking a political crisis. Mihai Fifor, a senator of the center-left Social Democratic Party, read out the motion against Grindeanu, who is accused of not implementing the partys program. Parliament will vote Wednesday on whether to dismiss the government.

 Associated Press
University of Virginia student Otto Warmbier speaks as he is presented to reporters in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Feb. 29, 2016. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor.

Feb. 29, 2016 University of Virginia student Otto Warmbier speaks as he is presented to reporters in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Feb. 29, 2016. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor. Kim Kwang Hyon/Associated Press

The University of Virginia student had been held in North Korea for 17 months for trying to steal a propaganda poster while on a trip to the country.

The University of Virginia student had been held in North Korea for 17 months for trying to steal a propaganda poster while on a trip to the country.

The University of Virginia student had been held in North Korea for 17 months for trying to steal a propaganda poster while on a trip to the country.

I cant stop thinking about Otto Warmbier. And the more I think about him, the more I remember all the smart people Ive heard over the years explaining why the North Korean regime  the regime that brutalized and terrorized Otto, as his father said last week  shouldnt be challenged or destabilized.

Warmbier is a smart and immensely likable kid who graduated from high school in 2013 in his hometown of Wyoming, Ohio, and enrolled in the University of Virginia. Toward the end of 2015 he was traveling in China when he signed up, out of curiosity and a sense of adventure, for a four-day New Years trip to North Korea. As the rest of his tour group departed from Pyongyang International Airport on Jan. 2, 2016, Warmbier was detained.

Two months later he showed up on North Korean television confessing to his supposed offense: trying to pilfer a propaganda poster from his hotel to bring home as a souvenir. We dont know if the coerced confession was truthful or made up. Even if truthful, the resulting sentence of 15 years at hard labor was obscene.

Warmbier, who is now 22, wasnt seen or heard from again until last week, when the Trump administration managed to secure his release and fly him home to Ohio. Only it turns out that Warmbier is incapacitated, and apparently has been for almost his entire time in captivity.

His neurological condition can be best described as a state of unresponsive wakefulness, said Daniel Kanter, a University of Cincinnati Medical Center neurologist who examined Otto. He shows no signs of understanding language, responding to verbal commands or awareness of his surroundings. He has not spoken. He has not engaged in any purposeful movements or behaviors. . . . This study showed extensive loss of brain tissue in all regions of the brain.

(Austin Warmbier)

We dont know whether North Korean guards beat Warmbier into a coma or whether his abuse and maltreatment came in some other form. What we do know is that a healthy young man flew to Pyongyang, was unjustly seized and then became lost to the world  with no one bothering to inform his parents.

Heres something else we know: Thousands  no, hundreds of thousands  of Koreans have been subjected to similar criminal abuse as Otto Warmbier suffered at the hands of North Koreas Stalinist regime. In 2014, a U.N. commission reported that systematic, widespread and gross human rights violations have been and are being committed by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea . . .

The use of torture is an established feature of the interrogation process in the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, the U.N. commission found. Starvation and other inhumane conditions of detention are deliberately imposed on suspects. . . . Persons who are found to have engaged in major political crimes are disappeared, without trial or judicial order, to political prison camps (kwanliso). . . . Their families are not even informed of their fate if they die. . . .

The inmate population has been gradually eliminated through deliberate starvation, forced labour, executions, torture, rape and the denial of reproductive rights enforced through punishment, forced abortion and infanticide. The commission estimates that hundreds of thousands of political prisoners have perished in these camps over the past five decades. The unspeakable atrocities that are being committed against inmates of the kwanliso political prison camps resemble the horrors of camps that totalitarian States established during the twentieth century.

Translation: The gulag of the Soviet Union, the concentration camps of Nazi Germany  they have been roughly replicated in North Korea. The whole world knows this  the U.N. report is a public document  and yet the regime lives on. How can that be?

It turns out that plenty of people find the regime repugnant but convenient. Chinas Communist rulers are first in that line: Kim Jong Un annoys them, but they do not want a unified, pro-Western Korea on their border. South Korea has a Ministry of Unification but also many citizens who do not want the responsibility or expense of bringing 25 million impoverished North Koreans up to their living standard (South Koreas population is about 50 million).

For its part, the United States is more interested in negotiating an end to North Koreas nuclear weapons program than helping its captive millions. Our goal is not regime change, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said in April.

And so, though the country is backward and totally dependent on outside assistance, the regime lives on. The prison camps endure. And Otto Warmbiers heartbroken mother sits by his side, hoping to coax some sign of consciousness from her damaged boy.

Read more from Fred Hiatts archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
I agree with Eugene Robinsons June 13 op-ed, Kansass shot of economic poison, which described how damaging the conservative idea of trickle-down economics can be for everyone except the very rich. I also agree that the majority of the Republican/Trump base has no idea that jobs and income derive from the federal government and that the economy would crash without it.

We could allow the conservatives to shrink the federal government to providing for the common defense and insuring domestic tranquility between the states. Lets shrink the federal income tax to 10 percent for everyone equally. Let the states tax their citizens and provide for everything else. No more federal grants to Alaska for the Bridge to Nowhere or to Maryland for the Purple Line.

Living in Maryland, I believe that my governor and legislature would be very fair in keeping the safety net for those who need it, and spend my tax dollars for the benefit of everyone, especially the middle class. States such as New York and California would take care of their people properly, with the voted consent of their citizens. States such as Alabama and Mississippi would find out that they are up the creek without a paddle without federal help. But those people can learn that their votes have consequences.

Burt J. Mazia, Rockville
The June 10 news article New Mexico moves to ease access to birth control highlighted efforts across the country to address the barriers many women face in obtaining hormonal contraceptives and mentioned as states that have authorized pharmacists to prescribe and dispense contraceptives California, Oregon, Colorado and Washington.

With Marylands rate of unintended pregnancies at 58 percent , higher than the national average, members of the Maryland General Assembly passed legislation this past session (HB 613/SB 363) that sets up the framework for women in Maryland to obtain their birth control from Maryland pharmacists. Regulations under development include pharmacist training, patient assessment protocols, communication with physicians and guidelines for patient referrals to physicians for additional care.

The legislation was supported by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Maryland Nurses Association and backed by high-impact studies that demonstrate the value pharmacists bring to patient care.

Natalie D. Eddington, Baltimore

The writer is dean of the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.
THE EASIEST thing for any government to do is to give the voters what they want today, and worry about paying for it tomorrow. That basic tendency explains much of the process that landed Puerto Rico in the equivalent of bankruptcy. Illinois, New Jersey and Connecticut have trod a similar path of least political resistance en route to financial trouble, albeit not as dire, yet, as the mess in Puerto Rico.

And so it is heartening to see that at least one major state has decided to take a long-term approach: On Monday, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf signed a pension reform law that will help the state appropriately compensate its future employees while reducing risks to its taxpayers. Even better, the measure is the product of a bipartisan process that brought Mr. Wolf, a Democrat, together with the Republican-dominated state legislature. When it goes into effect 18 months from now, the law will abolish standard defined-benefit pensions for new state and public school employees (except for those on hazardous duty, such as state troopers). Those public employees will have to choose from three retirement savings options similar, in varying degrees, to the defined contribution plans common in the private sector. Among other benefits, this could make retirement savings portable for many who may only work for Pennsylvania for a few years before moving on.

Pennsylvania had already acted in 2010 to put the states pension funding ratio, which as of 2015 stood at an unsatisfactory 56 percent, on an upward trajectory. In combination with that past enactment, the new one, which also aims to reduce bloated investment costs, could render the state less vulnerable to unexpected costs in a downturn. To be sure, the benefits will only appear over a period of years; state and local government in the Quaker State will continue to face brutal competition between pension costs and the costs of vital public services in the meantime. Yet analysts at the Pew Charitable Trusts praise the plan as one of the most  if not the most  comprehensive and impactful reforms any state has implemented.

It bears repeating that this has been accomplished on a bipartisan basis, showing that the cause of problem-solving is not altogether lost in American politics. Now it remains for other states to follow Pennsylvanias example.
Adient opens new plant in Macedonia

Macedonia

The American headquartered Tier-1 car seat manufacturer has opened a US$20 million plant in Macedonia on June 15.

Situated in the industrial zone of Strumica, close to the Greek and Bulgarian borders, the plant covers an area of 15,000 sq m and is to employ 1,300 people.

The Group already operates two plants in the country, situated in Skopje and Stip, but the new manufacturing site is said to be its largest and most sophisticated in the country.

Sources: MIA/See News
OBAMACARE LOOKS shaky, mostly because Republicans are sabotaging it. This, in turn, has rekindled calls on the left to create a European-style single-payer system, in which the government directly pays for every Americans health care. California lawmakers, for example, are considering such a plan for their state.

The single-payer model has some strong advantages. It is much simpler for most people  no more insurance forms or related hassles. Employers would no longer be mixed up in providing health-care benefits, and taxpayers would no longer subsidize that form of private compensation. Government experts could conduct research on treatments and use that information to directly cut costs across the system.

But the governments price tag would be astonishing. When Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) proposed a Medicare for all health plan in his presidential campaign, the nonpartisan Urban Institute figured that it would raise government spending by $32 trillion over 10 years, requiring a tax increase so huge that even the democratic socialist Mr. Sanders did not propose anything close to it.

Single-payer advocates counter that government-run health systems in other developed countries spend much less than the United States does on its complex public-private arrangement. They say that if the United States adopted a European model, it could expand coverage to everyone by realizing a mountain of savings with no measureable decline in health outcomes, in part because excessive administrative costs and profit would be wrung from the system.

In fact, the savings would be less dramatic; the Urban Institutes projections are closer to reality. The public piece of the American health-care system has not proven itself to be particularly cost-efficient. On a per capita basis, U.S. government health programs alone spend more than Canada, Australia, France and Britain each do on their entire health systems. That means the U.S. government spends more per American to cover a slice of the population than other governments spend per citizen to cover all of theirs. Simply expanding Medicare to all would not automatically result in a radically more efficient health-care system. Something else would have to change.

(Daron Taylor/The Washington Post)

With monopoly buying power, the government could tighten up on health-care spending by dictating prices for services and drugs. But the government already has a lot of leverage. A big reason it does not clamp down now on health-care spending is that it is hard to do so politically.

Republicans have tarred the Affordable Care Acts Medicare cuts as attacks on the cherished entitlement program. Doctors and hospitals have effectively resisted efforts to scale back the reimbursements they get from federal health programs. Small-town America does not want to give up expensive medical facilities that serve relatively few people in rural areas. A tax on medical device makers has been under bipartisan attack ever since it passed, as has the Cadillac tax on expensive health-insurance plans. When experts find that a treatment is too costly relative to the health benefits it provides, patients accustomed to receiving that treatment and medical organizations with a stake in the status quo rise up to demand it continue to be paid for.

A single-payer health-care system would face all of these political barriers to cost-saving reform and more. To realize the single-payer dream of coverage for all and big savings, medical industry players, including doctors, would likely have to get paid less and patients would have to accept different standards of access and comfort. There is little evidence most Americans are willing to accept such tradeoffs.

The goal still must be universal coverage and cost restraint. But no matter whether the government or some combination of parties is paying, that restraint will come slowly, with cuts to the rate of increase in medical costs that make the system more affordable over time. There are many options short of a disruptive takeover: the government can change how care is delivered, determine which treatments should be covered, control quality at hospitals, drive down drug costs and discourage high-cost health-care plans even while making the Obamacare system better at filling coverage gaps.
Activists protest gun violence on the third anniversary of the Sandy Hook mass shooting, outside NRA headquarters in Fairfax, Va., Dece. 14, 2015. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

Regarding the June 13 editorial The trauma does not end:

To effectively wage war on the NRAs extremist agenda, gun-safety advocates should take the fight to the gun lobbys own turf. We should start by hammering home a compelling fact revealed by independent polls: 75 percent of the NRAs members support universal background checks, proving that its leadership is simply out of touch.

We should also make widely known the convictions of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, the conservative hero who died last year. In delivering the courts majority opinion in the 2008 Heller case  generally hailed as a landmark victory for gun-rights supporters because it affirmed the individual right to gun ownership  Scalia declared that like most rights, the right secured by the Second Amendment is not unlimited. He validated longstanding prohibitions on the possession of firearms by felons and the mentally ill . . . laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings . . . [and] laws imposing conditions and qualifications on the commercial sale of arms. He also upheld the historical tradition of prohibiting the carrying of dangerous and unusual weapons,  which many would interpret as any weapons intended for war.

Such provocative perspectives can provide powerful ammunition against an epidemic that claims 30,000 American lives a year.

Helen Mondloch, Fairfax
White House press secretary Sean Spicer listens as national security adviser H.R. McMaster speaks during a briefing in the James S. Brady room of the White House on May 16. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post)

THE WHITE HOUSE has declared that President Trumps tweets are official statements. But that does not mean that Mr. Trumps staff will be any more helpful in explaining the presidents often confounding Twitter declarations  or, for that matter, much else about Mr. Trump.

I think the presidents tweets speak for themselves is spokesman Sean Spicers frequently invoked evasion . It is an open question whether Mr. Spicers goal is to avoid making statements his boss might later contradict or whether he does not have the information he needs to do his job. Indicating the latter, I have not had a discussion with him about that is another dodge Mr. Spicer uses, such as when he was pressed about whether the president has confidence in Attorney General Jeff Sessions, and when he was asked whether the president believes in climate change.

If the press secretary cannot speak for the president, who can? Ultimately, the best messenger is the president himself, Mr. Spicer said. If Mr. Trump dislikes how his surrogates perform in front of critical questioning, he can fix that by spending more time at the lectern. He has taken far too few questions from journalists over his first several months in office. He answered dozens in one go during a February news conference, but he has spent little time mixing it up with the press corps since.

In this, Mr. Trump is not entirely unlike President Barack Obama, his predecessor, in early 2009. Yet Mr. Obama also frequently conducted town hall meetings in which members of the public were allowed to directly address the president, and some asked challenging questions. Moreover, Mr. Obamas press team was capable of answering basic questions about his administration.

What would we ask the president, given the chance? Here are a few questions we might start with.

 Why did Mr. Trump fail while at a NATO summit meeting to affirm its Article 5, which commits each member state to come to the defense of every other?

 Does he accept that the climate is changing due to human activity?

 Does the president believe GOP health-care reform can lower both premiums and deductibles, which generally move in opposite directions? Does he know that the House bill was not designed to do that?

 Did he know about the Russia connections of Michael Flynn, Paul Manafort and Carter Page when he brought them onto his campaign?

What questions would you ask President Trump, if given the chance? Send your suggestions to us by going to wapo.st/asktrump, and we will publish as many of them as we can. Real answers from the president, however, we cannot guarantee.
Donald Trumps campaign manager, Paul Manafort, walks the floor at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland on July 21, 2016. (Michael Robinson Chavez/The Washington Post)

In August, as tension mounted over Russias role in the U.S. presidential race, Donald Trumps campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, sat down to dinner with a business associate from Ukraine who once served in the Russian army.

Konstantin Kilimnik, who learned English at a military school that some experts consider a training ground for Russian spies, had helped run the Ukraine office for Manaforts international political consulting practice for 10 years.

At the Grand Havana Room, one of New York Citys most exclusive cigar bars, the longtime acquaintances talked about bills unpaid by our clients, about [the] overall situation in Ukraine . . . and about the current news, including the presidential campaign, according to a statement provided by Kilimnik, offering his most detailed account of his interactions with the former Trump adviser.

Kilimnik, who provided a written statement to The Washington Post through Manaforts attorney, said the previously unreported dinner was one of two meetings he had with Manafort on visits to the United States during Manaforts five months working for Trump. The first encounter was in early May 2016, about two weeks before the Trump adviser was elevated to campaign chairman.

The August dinner came about two weeks before Manafort resigned under pressure amid reports that he had received improper payments for his political work in Ukraine, allegations that he has denied.

Kilimnik is of interest to investigators on the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is examining possible links between the Trump campaign and Russia, said a person familiar with the inquiry.

Kilimniks name also appeared this spring in a previously undisclosed subpoena sought by federal prosecutors looking for information concerning contracts for work . . . communication or other records of correspondence related to about two dozen people and businesses that appeared to be connected to Manafort or his wife, including some who worked with Manafort in Kiev.

The subpoena was issued by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Virginia, where, until recently, Manaforts business was headquartered. The subpoena did not specify whether it was related to the FBIs investigation of Russian interference in the U.S. election or a separate inquiry into Manaforts business activities. Investigators in the Eastern District of Virginia have been assisting with the Russia investigation.

In Ukraine, Kilimniks political adversaries have said he may be working with Russian intelligence. U.S. officials have not made that charge.

Kilimnik rejected the allegation, telling The Post in his written statement that he has no relation to the Russian or any other intelligence service.

His dinner with Manafort came as Trumps campaign chairman was facing mounting questions about his work in Ukraine and his business ties to allies of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kilimnik said his meetings with Manafort were private visits that were in no way related to politics or the presidential campaign in the U.S. He said he did not meet with Trump or other campaign staff members, nor did he attend the Republican National Convention, which took place shortly before the Grand Havana Room session. However, he said the meetings with Manafort included discussions related to the perception of the U.S. presidential campaign in Ukraine.

(Bastien Inzaurralde/The Washington Post)

Manafort spokesman Jason Maloni said that Kilimnik was a longtime business associate who would have naturally been in touch with Manafort. Manafort told Politico, which first reported his relationship with Kilimnik, that his conversations included discussions about the cyberattack on the Democratic National Committee and the release of its emails.

It would be neither surprising nor suspicious that two political consultants would chat about the political news of the day, including the DNC hack, which was in the news, Maloni said.

He added, Were confident that serious officials will come to the conclusion that Pauls campaign conduct and interaction with Konstantin during that time was perfectly permissible and not in furtherance of some conspiracy.

Before joining Trumps campaign, Manafort had built a practice in Ukraine as an adviser to the Russia-friendly Party of Regions and helped elect former president Viktor Yanukovych, who was ousted in 2014 and fled to Russia. Manafort kept his Kiev office open until mid-2015.

Federal investigators have shown an interest in Manafort on several fronts beyond his work on behalf of Trump.

Subpoenas in New York have sought information about Manaforts real estate loans, according to NBC News. Justice Department officials also are exploring whether Manafort should have more fully disclosed his work for foreign political parties, as required by federal law.

Former FBI director Robert S. Mueller III has been appointed special counsel to oversee the Russia inquiry, and people familiar with his work said his office has now taken over investigations of Manaforts conduct unrelated directly to the Russia probe.

A spokesman for the Eastern District of Virginia declined to discuss the subpoena there. A spokesman for Mueller also declined to comment.

Manaforts relationship with Kilimnik shows the challenge facing investigators as they seek to determine whether contacts between Russian allies and Trump associates during the height of Russian interference in the campaign amounted to collusion or reflected routine interactions between people with relationships unrelated to the campaign.

Kilimnik said he grew up in southeastern Ukraine, which was then part of the Soviet Union. He said he moved to Moscow in 1987, when he was 17, and enrolled in the Military Institute of the Ministry for Defense, an elite academy for training military translators.

Kilimnik said he was trained in English and Swedish and spent the early 1990s serving as a military translator, including in 1993 on a trade mission of a Russian arms company.

He said the GRU, the military intelligence service that U.S. officials have linked to the 2016 cyberattacks, did not recruit from his language academy.

No one ever spoke to me ever about doing any intelligence work  neither Russians or Ukrainians or any other foreign country, he said.

Some experts disputed Kilimniks description of the Moscow academy.

Stephen Blank, a Russia expert at the American Foreign Policy Council, a Washington think tank, and a longtime former instructor at the U.S. Army War College, called the institute a breeding ground for intelligence officers.

Mark Galeotti, a Russia security specialist at the Institute of International Relations, a Prague-based foreign policy think tank, said the school is one of the favored recruiting grounds of the GRU.

In 1995, amid uncertainty in the post-Soviet economy, Kilimnik said he needed money and took a job as a translator for the International Republican Institute, a pro-democracy group affiliated with the U.S. Republican Party.

People who worked with Kilimnik said he was proficient in several languages and a savvy reader of people.

I relied on him, said Sam Patten, who was Kilimniks boss at the Moscow office of IRI from 2001 to 2004.

At the time, Kilimnik openly discussed his work in the Russian army, said Phil Griffin, a political consultant who hired him at the IRI. He was completely upfront about his past work with Russian military intelligence, Griffin said. It was no big deal.

Julia Sibley, a spokeswoman for the IRI, confirmed that Kilimnik worked for the organization a decade ago but declined to provide additional information.

In 2005, Griffin, who had left Moscow to work for Manafort in Ukraine, invited Kilimnik to join him there, according to both men.

Kilimnik said he has worked largely in Ukraine ever since, although he declined to say whether he has become a Ukrainian citizen.

Kilimniks role for Manafort grew over time. Beyond his work as a translator, Kilimnik would help Manafort understand the political context and why people were doing what they were doing, Patten said.

People familiar with Kilimniks work in Ukraine for Manafort say his assignments included meeting with powerful Ukrainian politicians and serving as a liaison to Russian aluminum magnate Oleg Deripaska, who is close to Putin and did business with Manafort.

A spokeswoman for Deripaska did not respond to a request for comment.

In August, Volodymyr Ariev, a member of the Ukrainian parliament who represents a party that opposed Manaforts clients, requested that Ukraines top prosecutor investigate whether Kilimnik had worked with Russian intelligence services.

A spokeswoman for the prosecutor did not respond to questions from The Post. The prosecutors office told Politico in March that Kilimnik was not being processed now as a witness, suspect or accused.

Others viewed Kilimnik as more aligned with Washington than Moscow.

Oleg Voloshin, who served as a spokesman for the foreign minister of Ukraine under Yanukovych, said Manafort and Kilimnik were pushing Yanukovych to ally with Europe rather than Russia, which angered some in Yanukovychs party.

Kilimnik was always trying to promote this message  if you want to be successful here, you want to look westward, Voloshin said.

Kilimnik was also well known at the U.S. Embassy, and officials there and at other western embassies appeared to trust him, meeting with him frequently to discuss Ukrainian politics, said people familiar with his work.

Hes not working for the Russians, said a foreign policy expert close to Republicans who was working in Ukraine at the time. If anything, hes working for us.

Alice Crites, Devlin Barrett and Matt Zapotosky in Washington and Andrew Roth in Moscow contributed to this report.
High-level U.S. government officials including former attorney general John D. Ashcroft and former FBI director Robert S. Mueller III cannot be held liable for the alleged unconstitutional treatment of noncitizens detained after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the Supreme Court ruled Monday.

The court in a shorthanded 4-to-2 decision ended a long-running lawsuit filed against former officials in the administration of President George W. Bush for actions following the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Hundreds of Arab and South Asian men  many of them Muslim  were arrested and detained as part of a nationwide terrorism investigation.

[Supreme Court case raises issues of officials accountability]

Six plaintiffs brought a representative suit, brought on behalf of those rounded up, who were noncitizens and lacked lawful immigration status. They alleged they were held because of their race, religion, ethnicity, and national heritage and immigration status, and were subjected to verbal and physical abuse, daily strip searches and months in solitary confinement. None of those held at the detention center in Brooklyn were found to have any connection to terrorism.

Justice Anthony M. Kennedy said that the treatment alleged by the men was tragic, but that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit in New York was wrong to let the suit proceed. In general, government officials are shielded from civil lawsuits when they have acted in good faith in carrying out their duties.

Kennedy acknowledged competing concerns.

Without lawsuits holding public officials accountable, he said, there will be insufficient deterrence to prevent officers from violating the Constitution. On the other hand, if such lawsuits were allowed, high officers who face personal liability for damages might refrain from taking urgent and lawful action in a time of crisis.

There is therefore a balance to be struck, in situations like this one, between deterring constitutional violations and freeing high officials to make the lawful decisions necessary to protect the nation in times of great peril, Kennedy said, before concluding:

The proper balance is one for the Congress, not the Judiciary, to undertake.

His opinion was joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr.

The court was particularly shorthanded. Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan recused themselves, presumably because each had worked on the case before joining the court. New Justice Neil M. Gorsuch took no part in the case because it was argued before he was confirmed to the court.

Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen G. Breyer dissented, and Breyer underscored the importance of the case by reading part of his dissent from the bench.

He said he was most concerned by the majoritys view that post 9/11 circumstance  the national security emergency  does or might well constitute a special factor precluding lawsuits.

History tells us of far too many instances where the executive or legislative branch took actions during time of war that, on later examination, turned out unnecessarily and unreasonably to have deprived American citizens of basic constitutional rights, Breyer wrote in the dissent Ginsburg joined.

There were three cases, including Ziglar v. Abbasi.

Justices rule for Ala. inmate

The Supreme Court sided Monday with an Alabama death row inmate who said he was denied a mental health expert who would help him fight the states attempt to sentence him to death.

The justices had taken the case to shed more light on a previous decision that poor defendants whose mental health might explain their criminal actions have a right to expert evaluation. The question was whether that expert should be on the defendants side, not just neutral.

But much to the consternation of the dissenting justices, the five-member majority in Mondays case ruled that Alabamas treatment of James McWilliams, who was sentenced to death in 1986, did not meet even the previous standard.

There is no need to issue a sweeping ruling when a narrow one will do, wrote Breyer, who was joined by Kennedy, Ginsburg, Sotomayor and Kagan.

[Supreme Court to decide on availability of mental health experts]

McWilliams was convicted of the 1984 rape, robbery and murder of convenience store clerk Patricia Vallery Reynolds in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Before sentencing, a state psychologist who examined McWilliams said he had organic brain damage and records showed he had received psychotropic drugs in prison.

But all of that came just two days before sentencing, and defense lawyers requested a delay and professional help in deciphering what that meant for McWilliamss case.

The judge refused and sentenced McWilliams to death.

McWilliamss lawyer at the Supreme Court, Stephen Bright, said the majority recognized that Alabamas provision of mental health assistance fell dramatically short of what the Constitution requires.

The case will go back to lower courts for more work.

Dissenting justices accused the majority of a most unseemly maneuver, in the words of Alito.

The court declines to decide the question on which we granted review and thus leaves in place conflicting lower court decisions regarding the meaning of a 32-year-old precedent, Alito wrote. He was joined by Roberts, Thomas and Gorsuch.

Most states now provide the independent expert McWilliams sought, but the Arkansas Supreme Court recently stayed the execution of two men on its death row because of a similar issue.

The case is McWilliams v. Dunn.
The federal government has violated the First Amendment by refusing to register trademarks that officials consider disparaging, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously Monday in a decision that provides a boost to the Washington Redskins efforts to hang on to the teams controversial name.

The ruling came in a case that involved an Asian American rock group called the Slants, which tried to register the bands name in 2011. The band was turned down by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office because of a law against registering trademarks that are likely to disparage people or groups.

In a ruling against the government, the court said the disparagement clause of the federal trademark law was not constitutional, even though it was written evenhandedly, prohibiting trademarks that insult any group.

This provision violates the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment, Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. wrote in a section of the opinion supported by all participating justices. It offends a bedrock First Amendment principle: Speech may not be banned on the ground that it expresses ideas that offend.

[Will bands First Amendment argument resonate with Supreme Court?]

The ruling  and a second one Monday that struck down a North Carolina law restricting registered sex offenders from social-media sites  bolsters the reputation of the Supreme Court as protector of First Amendment rights.

At a time when some have claimed that speech may and should be regulated or censored if it is offensive, hurtful, or dangerous, the justices firm insistence that governments may not silence messages they dislike is noteworthy and important, Notre Dame law professor Richard W. Garnett said in a statement.

Redskins owner Daniel Snyder was more succinct in a statement: I am THRILLED. Hail to the Redskins. The team was not involved in the case at hand, although the court several times mentioned an amicus brief filed by the Redskins.

The case centered on the 1946 Lanham Act, which in part prohibits registration of a trademark that may disparage . . . persons, living or dead, institutions, beliefs, or national symbols, or bring them into contempt, or disrepute.

But the founder of the Slants, Simon Tam, said the point of the bands name is just the opposite  an attempt to reclaim a slur and use it as a badge of pride.

In a Facebook post after the decision, Tam wrote: After an excruciating legal battle that has spanned nearly eight years, were beyond humbled and thrilled to have won this case at the Supreme Court. This journey has always been much bigger than our band: its been about the rights of all marginalized communities to determine whats best for ourselves.

Tam lost in the first legal rounds. But then a majority of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit said the law violates the First Amendments guarantee of free speech. The government may not penalize private speech merely because it disapproves of the message it conveys, a majority of that court found.

(Jorge Ribas/The Washington Post)

Free-speech advocates had supported the Slants, and the courts decision seemed likely from the oral arguments.

But some ethnic and minority groups worried about what kinds of trademarks the government would now be forced to register. It seems this decision will indeed open the floodgates to applications for all sorts of potentially offensive and hateful marks, said Lisa Simpson, an intellectual-property lawyer in New York.

While unified on the bottom line, the two groups of justices wrote separate opinions in support of the ruling.

Speech that demeans on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, disability, or any other similar ground is hateful; but the proudest boast of our free speech jurisprudence is that we protect the freedom to express the thought we hate, Alito wrote in part of the opinion, joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Clarence Thomas and Stephen G. Breyer.

Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote a concurring opinion that was joined by Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan.

A law that can be directed against speech found offensive to some portion of the public can be turned against minority and dissenting views to the detriment of all, Kennedy wrote.

The Slants were not happy to be associated with the Redskins  band members oppose the team mascot  but the band and the team have argued that the law was unevenly applied and gave too much control to the government.

The Supreme Court vindicated the teams position that the First Amendment blocks the government from denying or cancelling a trademark registration based on the governments opinion, Lisa Blatt, a lawyer representing the Redskins, said in a statement.

The teams trademark registration was canceled in 2014 after decades of use. The team asked a district judge in Virginia to overturn the cancellation and was refused. The case is now in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit in Richmond, awaiting the Slants decision.

The Native Americans challenging the team were disappointed, said their attorney Jesse Witten.

Nothing in the opinion undermines the decision of the [Patent and Trademark Office appeal board] or the District Court that the term redskin disparages Native Americans, Wittens statement read.

Justice Neil M. Gorsuch did not take part in Matal v. Tam.

The court showed no hesitation in striking down the North Carolina law, which was meant to keep registered sex offenders off social networks and websites that could bring them into contact with potential targets.

Kennedy said the law was far too broad, enacting a prohibition unprecedented in the scope of First Amendment speech it burdens.

By prohibiting sex offenders from using those websites, with one broad stroke North Carolina bars access to what for many are the principal sources for knowing current events, checking ads for employment, speaking and listening in the modern public square, and otherwise exploring the vast realms of human thought and knowledge, Kennedy wrote.

Lester Gerard Packingham is one of about 1,000 people prosecuted under the law. As a 21-year-old in 2002, he had sex with a 13-year-old girl and pleaded guilty to taking indecent liberties with a child. As a registered sex offender, he was prohibited from gaining access to commercial social-networking sites.

But in 2010, he celebrated the dismissal of a traffic ticket on his Facebook profile:

No fine, no court cost, no nothing spent. . . . Praise be to GOD, WOW! Thanks JESUS.

One North Carolina court struck down the law and his conviction, but the state Supreme Court reversed, saying the law was carefully tailored to meet the states goals.

None of the justices agreed with that. A fundamental principle of the First Amendment is that all persons have access to places where they can speak and listen, and then, after reflection, speak and listen once more, Kennedy wrote. He was joined fully in his opinion by the courts liberals: Ginsburg, Breyer, Sotomayor and Kagan.

Gorsuch did not take part in the case.

The rest of the court agreed North Carolinas law could not stand. But Alito said Kennedy had gone too far in his musings and risked sending the message that states are largely powerless to restrict even the most dangerous sexual predators from visiting any internet sites.

He was joined by Roberts and Thomas in that concurring opinion.

The case is Packingham v. North Carolina.

Ian Shapira contributed to this report.
The Supreme Court declared Monday that it will consider whether gerrymandered election maps favoring one political party over another violate the Constitution, a potentially fundamental change in the way American elections are conducted.

The justices regularly are called to invalidate state electoral maps that have been illegally drawn to reduce the influence of racial minorities by depressing the impact of their votes.

[Supreme Court says Virginia redistricting must be reexamined for racial bias]

But the Supreme Court has long been tolerant of partisan gerrymandering  and some justices have thought that the court shouldnt even be involved. A finding otherwise would have a revolutionary impact on the reapportionment that will take place after the 2020 election and could come at the expense of Republicans, who control the process in the majority of states.

The court accepted a case from Wisconsin, where a divided panel of three federal judges last year ruled that the states Republican leadership in 2011 pushed through a redistricting plan so partisan that it violated the Constitutions First Amendment and equal rights protections.

(Daron Taylor/The Washington Post)

The issue will be briefed and argued during the Supreme Court term that begins in October.

[Wisconsin case offers Supreme Court chance to tackle partisan gerrymandering]

The justices gave themselves a bit of an out, saying they will further consider their jurisdiction over the case when it is heard on its merits.

And the justices gave an indication of how divisive the issue might be. After granting the case, the court voted 5 to 4 to stay the lower courts decision, which had required that new state legislative districts be drawn this fall. Wisconsin had argued that would create unnecessary work should the Supreme Court ultimately overturn the lower courts decision and allow the Republican plan to stand.

The liberal justices  Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen G. Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan  went on record saying they would have denied the stay, meaning that the courts five conservatives granted it. Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, who probably holds the key to the case, voted for the stay.

The courts action comes at a time when the relatively obscure subject of reapportionment has taken on new significance, with many blaming the drawing of safely partisan seats for a polarized and gridlocked Congress. Barack Obama has said that one of his post-presidency projects will be to combat partisan gerrymanders after the 2020 Census.

Both parties draw congressional and legislative districts to their advantage. A challenge to congressional districts drawn by Maryland Democrats is making its way through the courts.

But Republicans have more to lose because they control so many more state legislatures. The Republican National Committee and a dozen large Republican states have asked the court to reverse the decision of the federal court in Wisconsin.

That states legislative leaders asked the Supreme Court in their brief to reject any effort that wrests control of districting away from the state legislators to whom the state constitution assigns that task, and hands it to federal judges and opportunistic plaintiffs seeking to accomplish in court what they failed to achieve at the ballot box.

But the dozen plaintiffs  voters across the state  said the evidence laid out in a trial in the Wisconsin case showed that Republican legislative leaders authorized a secretive and exclusionary mapmaking process aimed at securing for their party a large advantage that would persist no matter what happened in future elections.

In the election held after the new district maps were adopted, Republicans got just 48.6 percent of the statewide vote, but captured a 60-to-39 seat advantage in the State Assembly.

The Supreme Court has been reluctant to tackle partisan gerrymandering and sort through arguments about whether an electoral system is rigged or, instead, a partys political advantage is because of changing attitudes and demographics, as Wisconsin Republicans contend.

The justices last took up the topic in 2004 in a case called Vieth v. Jubelirer, which involved a Pennsylvania redistricting plan. The case split the court five ways, with the bottom line being that the justices could not agree on a test to determine when normal political instincts such as protecting your own turned into an unconstitutional dilution of someone elses vote.

Four justices  only Justice Clarence Thomas remains of the group  said it was not the courts business to make such decisions. Four others  only Ginsburg and Breyer remain  said such challenges could be heard by the court, but they disagreed on the method.

Kennedy was in the middle. He joined the first group in deciding the specific case against the challengers of the Pennsylvania plan, but he left the door open for future cases.

Kennedy said he could envision a successful challenge where a state enacts a law that has the purpose and effect of subjecting a group of voters or their party to disfavored treatment. What was elusive, Kennedy said, was a manageable standard by which to measure the effect of the apportionment and so to conclude that the state did impose a burden or restriction on the rights of a partys voters.

In the Wisconsin case, plaintiffs urged the use of a measure called the efficiency gap to determine how Republican mapmakers hurt Democrats with the main tools of gerrymandering: packing and cracking. These refer to packing like-minded voters, such as supporters of the same party, into a limited number of districts or cracking their influence by scattering them across districts in numbers too small to make an impact.

Under the approach, developed by two University of Chicago professors, every voter packed into a district above the threshold needed to elect a candidate from his party creates a surplus vote. And someone in a cracked district who votes for a candidate who is unable to win is a lost vote. Surplus and lost votes are considered wasted votes.

The efficiency gap measures the difference between the wasted votes of the two parties in an election divided by the total number of votes cast.

The federal court in Wisconsin was not so definitive. It acknowledged the efficiency gap, but only as one of several theories the court said corroborated its findings that the Republican leadership had a discriminatory intent, that its plan had a discriminatory effect and that the state had no legitimate reason for drawing the districts in the way it did.

The state contends that while Wisconsin is a purple state in national elections, its geography favors Republicans in legislative elections. Democratic voters are clustered in cities such as Milwaukee and Madison, while Republican voters are more evenly spread across the state. Any method of drawing districts will favor Republicans, they say.

The case is Gill v. Whitford.
White House press secretary Sean Spicer listens as EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt speaks during the daily press briefing at the White House on June 2, 2017. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post)

White House press secretary Sean Spicer is expected to transition to a more behind-the-scenes role overseeing communications strategy, part of a broader overhaul of the administrations most public-facing operation that has long been the subject of President Trumps ire and criticism.

Spicers anticipated move away from the briefing-room podium, confirmed by a senior White House official, comes amid weeks of Trumps frustration with his communications team, and after the White House had made overtures to a range of Republicans about taking jobs within the West Wing press operation.

We have sought input from many people as we look to expand our communications operation, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a White House spokeswoman, said in a statement. As he did in the beginning, Sean Spicer is managing both the communications and press office.

Politico and Bloomberg first reported the likely press-shop changes.

No official announcement has been made about Spicers move, and discussions concerning his role are ongoing, including whether he would still occasionally appear from the podium.

(Peter Stevenson/The Washington Post)

Spicers retreat from public view has occurred slowly  yet publicly  over the past month.

Early in Trumps presidency, Spicers on-camera briefing was an almost-daily, must-watch occurrence  a combative, freewheeling spectacle between the press secretary and the restive press corps. Trump boasted that the Spicer show got incredible ratings, and NBCs Saturday Night Live parodied it week after week.

[Everyone tunes in: Inside Trumps obsession with cable TV]

But recently, the White House briefing had receded from its place of daily prominence, and Spicer with it. Spicer took to holding some briefings off-camera, as he did Monday, or deploying Sanders as his substitute, or inviting a Cabinet official to brief reporters. Some days, there has been no briefing at all.

At one point, the White House considered deploying a rotating cast of briefers, in part to prevent the president, who has a short attention span, from growing bored or angry with his press secretary. And if Spicer ultimately steps away from the podium, it remains unclear whether the West Wing would fill the press secretary role with just one person.

White House Communications Director Mike Dubke  a longtime Republican operative with an establishment pedigree who never quite jelled with Trumps chaotic, insurgent operation  resigned from his post last month, and Spicer has unofficially taken on some of Dubkes off-camera messaging duties.

Spicer, who has years of Washington communications experience, is expected to focus more on message development and strategy, rather than serving as one of the administrations most visible public figures.

(Bastien Inzaurralde/The Washington Post)

Even before Dubkes resignation, the president had been frustrated with his communications team, which he felt was not always defending him as forcefully as he would have liked, or offering a clear, powerful message.

And in recent weeks, the White House reached out to a number of seasoned Republican hands, feeling them out about jobs, from press secretary to the communications director role, according to someone familiar with the conversations. The Trump administration, however, has had trouble filling a number of posts, and the communications shop is no different.

[ Help wanted: Why Republicans wont work for the Trump administration]

Trump officials approached Laura Ingraham, a conservative talk-radio host and friend of the president; Geoff Morrell, who served as the Pentagon press secretary for more than four years under former defense secretary Robert Gates; and Scott Reed, the senior political strategist at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, among others.

David Martosko  the U.S. political editor of DailyMail.com, who during the campaign earned a reputation for flattering coverage of Trump, with whom he had a personal relationship  also recently spoke to West Wing officials about the communications operation but is not expected to be offered a role, a senior administration official said.

The press shake-up underscores the presidents dissatisfaction with his communications team  in February, he graded himself a C or C-plus on messaging  and Spicer as its most public figure from his perch behind the podium.

Nonetheless, Trump had long provided mixed signals to Spicer, at times calling him to congratulate the press secretary on what a great a job he was doing, only to begin polling his friends and confidants about whether he should fire Spicer. On Monday, during his off-camera press briefing, Spicer seemed to inadvertently channel some of the uncertainty that comes from working under Trump. Asked if the president still has full confidence in his deputy attorney general, Rod J. Rosenstein, Spicer replied, The president has confidence in everyone who serves him in this administration.

But, just moments later, he added, The broader point here is that everyone who serves the president serves at the pleasure of the president.
Senate Democrats ramped up opposition Monday to the emerging Republican health-care bill, launching a series of mostly symbolic moves including speeches that went late into the evening and a push to slow other Senate business to a crawl.

The aim, Democrats said, was to draw attention to the secretive process Republican leaders are using to craft their bill and argue that the GOP proposals would hurt Americans. The Democrats lack the power to prevent a vote and they dont have the numbers to defeat a bill without Republican defections. So they are focusing this week on nonbinding protests.

At one point early Monday evening, more than a dozen Democratic senators sat at their desks on the Senate floor and took turns standing and asking for committee hearings on the bill and for the text to be released for greater scrutiny.

Each time, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) calmly rose from his desk at the front of the chamber and objected to their requests.

This is going to be a long evening because there are a lot of folks who are frustrated, Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) said. In the hours that followed, Democratic senators, some who brought charts and other visuals, took turns delivering remarks on the Senate floor in which they upbraided Republicans.

The coordinated Democratic effort came amid a broader push by allied advocacy groups to try to pressure Republican senators not to vote for the bill, which aims to repeal and replace key parts of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. McConnell can afford to lose only two Republican votes.

The maneuverings also came on the eve of a closely watched special election in Georgias 6th Congressional District, which Republicans are trying to hold. A Democratic victory could jolt the debate over health care by raising new questions about President Trump and the Republican agenda, in which health care is playing a feature role.

[Are Republicans leading the most secretive health-care bill process ever?]

Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Democrats would also start objecting to all unanimous consent requests in the Senate, which are typically made to approve noncontroversial items, save for honorary resolutions.

These are merely the first steps were prepared to take in order to shine a light on the shameful Trumpcare bill and reveal to the public the GOPs backroom dealmaking, said the Democratic leader on the Senate floor.

McConnell is trying to complete work on the bill and bring it to the Senate floor next week. But stark disagreements among Republicans over the direction the proposed legislation should go  and how it should differ from a bill that passed the GOP-controlled House in May  threaten to derail those plans.

One of the biggest issues yet to be resolved involves how to structure Medicaid, and plans appeared fluid on Monday evening, according to several Republicans familiar with the talks. Some Republicans in states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA were pushing for a significantly more gradual phaseout of that initiative than the House bill, while some conservatives were angling to try to slow the growth of Medicaids costs. Other questions remained on how to handle the taxes and regulations in Obamacare.

McConnell said Monday that Republicans are moving forward, but he did not discuss specifics.

Senate Republicans will continue working because its clear that we cannot allow Americans health care to continue on its current downward trajectory under Obamacare, taking so many families with it, McConnell said. The Obamacare status quo is simply unsustainable. The American people deserve relief. And well keep working to provide it.

At one point, McConnell and Schumer, whose desks are near each other at the front of the chamber, engaged in a tense back-and-forth. McConnell said there would be ample opportunity for senators to review the measure and that it would be open for amendments.

Will it be more than 10 hours? Schumer replied.

I think well have ample opportunity to read and amend the bill, McConnell responded, repeating himself.

I rest my case, concluded Schumer.

Republicans say they are working toward a goal of lowering insurance premiums for Americans. But the specifics in their bill have been closely guarded. McConnell and a small clutch of aides are crafting the bill as he consults GOP senators. Most of them say they dont know what shape the bill is taking, and some have complained about the tightly controlled effort. Republicans do not plan to hold committee hearings on their bill.

Beyond the Capitol, Community Catalyst Action Fund, an organization that opposes the GOP effort, kicked off an advertising campaign Monday pressuring five Republican senators not to vote for the legislation.

The group is spending $1.5 million targeting the lawmakers with ads that include a TV commercial that begins with the scene of a young boy wheezing in his bedroom and his mother rushing to get his asthma medication.

When this happens, she isnt thinking about the health-care bill in Congress, the narrator says. She isnt thinking that itll force her to choose between filling his prescriptions or paying their mortgage.

The organization, which bills itself as a consumer health group, is targeting Sens. Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), Jeff Flake (Ariz.), Susan Collins (Maine), Dean Heller (Nev.) and Shelley Moore Capito (W.Va.).

All except Collins come from states that expanded Medicaid under Obamacare. McConnell has proposed a three-year phaseout of the expansion. Some Republicans, including Capito, have pushed for a more gradual seven-year rollback.

[Liberal groups are teaming up to pressure GOP lawmakers on health care over summer recess]

Other organizations have been waging efforts to oppose the Senate GOP push. Last week, a coalition of medical and consumer groups held an event in Cleveland that was billed as the first of a series of gatherings to speak out against the House bill and the direction that Republican senators appear to be heading.

The coalition  which includes AARP, two hospital associations and four disease-fighting organizations  has said it will convene events in at least three other states in coming weeks, with the next one Wednesday in Reno, Nev.

Juliet Eilperin, Amy Goldstein and Kelsey Snell contributed to this report.
House Democratic leaders are pressing former national security adviser Michael Flynn for documents and details related to two trips he made to the Middle East in 2015 that they argue he failed to disclose  in part or in whole  on security clearance forms.

According to the ranking Democrats on the House Oversight and House Foreign Affairs committees  Elijah E. Cummings (Md.) and Eliot L. Engel (N.Y.), respectively  Flynns security forms and interviews revealed a previously unreported, six-day trip he made to Saudi Arabia in October 2015, in which he claimed to have stayed at a hotel that does not appear to exist, have traveled with a friend who was never named, and have spoken at a conference that none of his handling bureaus were aware of.

According to congressional testimony Flynn gave in June 2015, Flynn also made an earlier trip that involved talks about developing nuclear power in the region. But Flynn never documented the trip on his security clearance forms at all, according to Cummings and Engel.

Cummings and Engel sent their letter requesting documents on Monday to Flynns lawyers and the heads of consulting companies X-Co Dynamics Inc./IronBridge Group and ACU Strategic Partners.

Flynn is under scrutiny by several investigations into Russian meddling in the 2016 president election and any possible collusion between President Trumps campaign and that effort.

Newsweek recently reported that Flynn had traveled to the Middle East to promote a potential U.S.-Russian venture involving those companies to develop nuclear power facilities. But Flynns financial disclosure forms indicate that his business affiliation with X-Co/IronBridge began only in August 2015  two months after his initial trip  according to Cummingss and Engels letter.

Shortly after Flynns summer trip, Cummings and Engel pointed out, Saudi Arabia announced an agreement with Rosatom, Russias state nuclear energy company, that would prove to be worth about $100 billion.

If this press report is accurate, General Flynns failure to report this trip and any contacts with foreign government officials about this Saudi-Russian nuclear proposal appears to be a potential violation of the law, Cummings and Engel wrote, stressing that they have no record of General Flynn identifying on this security clearance renewal application . . . even a single foreign government official he had contact with in the seven years prior to submitting the form.

Their letter requests all documents and communications referring or relating to any relationship between X-Co Dynamics Inc./IronBridge Group or ACU Strategic Partners and either Flynn or his business, the Flynn Intel Group. They also request information about all bids, pitches, contracts, agreements, invoices, and billings, anything related to Flynns travel or billings, as well as any internal documents from the companies referring to Flynn or the Flynn Intel Group.

Flynns attorney declined to comment on the House Democrats letter.

Cummingss and Engels letter does not impose a deadline, nor does it have the signatures of their committees chairmen, Reps. Trey Gowdy (R-S.C.) and Edward R. Royce (R-Calif.)

Read more at PowerPost


A woman recently admitted to the National Center for the Treatment of Addiction for Women and Children in Kabul is calmed by nurses and doctors after collapsing in a corridor during withdrawal from her opium addiction. She was brought to the facility by her 16-year-old daughter, who insisted she stay there until she recovered, saying, She is our mother, but she has ruined our family. (Andrew Quilty/For The Washington Post)

One recent morning, three figures in white lab coats descended cautiously into a pitch-black netherworld beneath a crumbling bridge in the Afghan capital. They picked their way through garbage and sprawled limbs, passing hundreds of huddled men whose gaunt, wary faces were briefly illuminated by the flare of matches and drug pipes.

The doctors were headed to a lone tent pitched nearby on the dry riverbed, where they knew that a female addict named Marzia had been sleeping on her own. They approached quietly, saying they had come to help. From within came shouts of Go away, leave me alone! Suddenly the young woman flung open the tent flap, cursing and hurling debris. Stumbling along the riverbed, she darted under the bridge and vanished into the protective company of fellow lost souls.



While rehab center staffers search for women in the dry bed of the Kabul River near a notorious addict colony under the Pule Sukhta bridge, plainclothes police destroy makeshift shelters at the site last month. This one was home to an addict, right, who is also an amputee. (Andrew Quilty/For The Washington Post)

Drug addiction in Afghanistan, once mostly limited to men who spent years as laborers or war refugees in Iran, has exploded into a nationwide scourge that affects millions of people, including a growing number of women and children.

Over the past five years, programs of crop eradication and substitution have been largely abandoned as foreign funding has ended and insurgent attacks have increased. As a result, tens of thousands of farmers have returned to the lucrative business of growing opium poppies. Last year, 420,000 acres in Afghanistan were devoted to poppies, and opium production rose 43 percent over 2015, to 4,800 tons, according to the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime.

[Its official: The U.S. drug war in Afghanistan is a $7.6 billion failure]

Most Afghan opium is sold for export to the heroin trade in Europe and Russia, with an estimated revenue value of nearly $1 billion. But the boom has also led to a sharp drop in domestic prices, while widespread unemployment and anxiety created by years of war have fueled demand for the cheap escape of drugs.

In 2010, U.N. experts estimated that there were about 1 million regular drug users in Afghanistan, mostly using opium as a kind of self-medication against the hardships of life. They warned that addiction was following the same hyperbolic growth of opium production. By 2015, they reported, the number of addicts in the country had soared to 3 million  an astonishing 12 percent of the populace  and more of them were using heroin.

Today the problem has burst into the open, overwhelming police and public health agencies. Dirt-streaked men can be seen passed out on almost any sidewalk in Kabul, and the few treatment centers are constantly full.

The most startling aspect of the drug boom, though, is still largely hidden from sight. Tens of thousands of Afghan women, confined to their homes by tradition and often dependent on addicted men, are succumbing, too. This has created a growing phenomenon of drug-centered households where family relations, economic stability and social traditions can easily collapse.

It is a silent tsunami, and if it is not controlled, in another few years it will be a disaster, said Shaista Hakim, a physician and drug rehabilitation specialist who works at the recently opened National Center for the Treatment of Addiction for Women and Children in Kabul.



A drug-addicted woman who was admitted the day before sleeps on the floor where she fell in the detoxification ward last month at the National Center for the Treatment of Addiction for Women and Children in Kabul. The center, which opened several months ago, is one of the few such facilities for women in Afghanistan. (Andrew Quilty/For The Washington Post)

During the Taliban era, when drugs were banned, you could hardly find a woman using hashish, and even more rarely opium, Hakim said. But in the past five years, she said, the number of female addicts has tripled. Every woman here has problems like mountains, layer on top of layer, she said. They are so vulnerable, and their addiction involves the entire family, so we have to treat the entire family.

According to experts, most Afghan female addicts are introduced to drugs by their husbands or male relatives. Daily routines collapse, and traditional Muslim norms  including womens expected roles as modest, devoted wives and mothers  are upended by the frenzy of hunting for drugs and the haze of getting high.

Some women become prostitutes or thieves. Children are given opium to keep them quiet, sent out to beg, turned over to orphanages or sold into marriage to pay for drugs. At their most desperate, younger women gravitate to drug markets such as the infamous addicts colony under the Pule Sukhta, or Burned Bridge, in southwest Kabul, where they can share a pipe, purchase a baggie of heroin for pennies and hide from the world.

[Heroin addiction spreads with alarming speed across Afghanistan]

The addicted women feel safe there among the men, even though its dangerous and some abuse them, said Hakim, who regularly visits the bridge area with her co-workers. If they come with us, we can help them recover, but then they have to face the shame and gossip of being identified as an addict. For a woman in our society, that is worse.

The new rehabilitation center, run by the Ministry of Public Health but funded largely by the U.S. government, houses and treats women for 45-day stints of detoxification and therapy at no cost. The premises are locked and guarded; no women are allowed out, and no men are allowed in except for limited visits. Children are welcome to stay, but they are separated from their mothers for play and study, and some are also under treatment for addiction.



Children of drug-addicted women with a nurse after a class at the rehab center. They are separated from their mothers for study and play. (Andrew Quilty/For The Washington Post)

At the moment, 72 women and children are living at the center, a brightly decorated, four-story hive of activity. Some of the women were found by the medical intervention team at Pule Sukhta or picked up there by police and transferred to the center in lieu of arrest. Others have checked in voluntarily or been brought by relatives from other provinces. Almost all are uneducated; the center offers literacy classes as well as training in tailoring and hairdressing.

During a recent visit by a Washington Post reporter and photographer, the staff tried to keep things orderly, but emotions ran high and drama erupted often. Several women going through withdrawal pleaded to go home, swearing they would never touch drugs again. There were sounds of pounding on locked doors and babies wailing.

The only quiet area was a dorm room where two disheveled women who had just arrived from Pule Sukhta were sprawled in sleep.

Some patients were reluctant to tell their stories for fear of family gossip or public stigma. Others were proud of their progress and eager to explain the paths that had led them to drugs, as well as the hard choices they had made to escape them.

Their tangled tales had some common threads: addicted and jobless husbands, children taken away and sent to orphanages, conflicts with disapproving relatives, and lives of poverty and wartime hardship in which drugs offered short-term release but caused lingering damage.



An elderly patient at the rehab center wails in a hallway. Emotions run high at the facility, and drama erupts often. (Andrew Quilty/For The Washington Post)

I want the world to know what I went through, said Shaimsa Khan, 26, who was about to complete her second 45-day stay. She said she had run away from her addicted husband and tried to kick drugs at the center. But after health authorities refused to return her young son, she relapsed and found herself drawn back to the addicts colony.

I was alone and had no one to protect me. It was better under the bridge than going off with a strange man, Khan said.

At lunchtime, the women and children crowded together on the floor, eating bowls of stew and bread. Suddenly there was a commotion at the front door. A gaunt woman had arrived, weeping and shrieking in protest. Three children were with her: a slender, grim-faced girl of 16 and a distraught 9-year-old boy who took turns holding a year-old baby.

As the argument continued, it became clear that the mother had not brought her children; they had brought her. The daughter, Mahdia, who has never been to school, alternately scolded and soothed her mother while explaining the situation to the center staff. She said her mothers addiction was out of control, that she kept running away to find drugs, and that she had forced both Mahdia and her sister to marry older men so she could use the dowry money to buy drugs.

She is our mother, but she has ruined our family, Mahdia said, balancing the baby on her hip. She goes to the bridge, and if she doesnt find drugs she beats us, and she faints all the time. I want her to be healthy, not crazy. I want us to have a normal life.

The girl handed the baby to her brother and put her arms protectively around her weeping mothers shoulders, but her eyes were hard with resolve.

It doesnt matter what she says. She must be kept her here until she recovers, Mahdia said. There is no other way.

Read more

It was a brutal killing that shocked Afghanistan. Now, the outrage has faded.

The unlikely life of Afghanistans first female taxi driver

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

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Britain and the European Union began talks Monday to sever their 43-year partnership, kicking off unprecedented divorce negotiations that will shape future relations between them.

Discussions began with an immediate concession from the British over how the talks will be structured, a display of the weakness of the British position in the face of an unusual degree of unity among the E.U.s 27 remaining members.

British politics were thrown into turmoil after voters narrowly decided just short of a year ago to leave the E.U., long a source of love-hate angst in British politics. The move toppled one leader and may be close to toppling a second, British Prime Minister Theresa May, after a crippling election earlier this month in which her Conservatives lost their majority.

[In historic break, Britain gives formal notice it is leaving the European Union]

Despite sharp splits in London over what to seek in the divorce, the lead British negotiator vowed that his nation would plunge onward with a full declaration of independence, dampening expectations after the election that Britain would move to preserve some ties with Brussels.

Today marks the start of a journey for the United Kingdom and for the European Union, the British minister charged with negotiating the deal, David Davis, said Monday after a day of meetings with his E.U. negotiating counterpart, Michel Barnier. Theres no doubt that the road ahead will at times be challenging.

The Brexit victory shocked even backers of the measure and added momentum to a wave of nationalism and populism in Europe and the United States that was seen as helping elevate Donald Trump to the White House.

But British society has remained deeply divided about the meaning of the Brexit vote and the extent to which leaders should pull out of wide-ranging relationships that have delivered prosperity and frustration to generations of British citizens.

Speaking alongside Davis, Barnier offered a grave outlook about what lies ahead.

The United Kingdom has asked to leave the European Union. Its not the other way around, said Barnier, speaking in French, a decision that itself is a measure of Britains waning influence in Europe.

The consequences are substantial, he said. But he said that the E.U. approach to Britain will not be about punishment  its not about revenge.

[As Britain softens Brexit demands, E.U. leaders say door is still open]

European leaders have repeatedly said that Britain need not go through with its plans for divorce  although they have been tough about what a split will mean if it happens.

Barnier, a veteran French politician, has been vested by the E.U. to enforce its no-compromise red lines that any deal for Britain must not be more favorable than the one it has as a full member.

His first victory came Monday, when he forced Britain to accept the E.U. timetable for the talks: first a negotiation over the split, and only then a discussion about the future relationship between the two sides. Britain had sought for the talks to proceed in parallel, a structure that would have given London more bargaining power.

[Whats at stake for the European Union?]

The issues at stake are daunting.

Unresolved is everything from the status of E.U. citizens living in Britain, to intelligence sharing, to the future of tens of thousands of British jobs that could be wiped out if businesses move to Europe to avoid new trade barriers.

So far, European leaders have remained united that Britain cannot have full access to European markets unless it also allows full access to its own. European demands for British restitution have also increased, from $67 billion a few months ago to $112 billion now, a measure of the degree of E.U. toughening against May.

The prime minister is a deeply weakened leader who was badly damaged after parliamentary elections this month swept away her majority. That against-all-odds result means that the British leader is far from assured of staying in her seat, even as the Brexit talks get underway.

But further turmoil and a new prime minister could risk any progress that is made in the first weeks of talks if the new leader decides to take a different direction.

May plans to present E.U. leaders with a proposal Thursday that would detail British plans for E.U. citizens living in Britain.

Any deal will depend on the willingness of both sides to bargain as the clock ticks toward March 2019, when, under treaty rules, Britain will leave the E.U. whether it has reached a deal about how the new relationship will function or not.

But as Europe grows more confident in its future after the election in France of the pro-E.U. Emmanuel Macron as president and the growing assurance from German Chancellor Angela Merkel that she will be reelected in September, analysts say there may be fewer reasons for Europe to compromise.

[As Brexit begins, the British face a Europe with far more at stake]

They can be more relaxed about Britain crashing out without a deal that could destabilize the E.U. economy and destabilize the euro zone, said Charles Grant, director of the Center for European Reform, a London-based think tank.

Though the basic outlines of a deal could be struck within the allotted time, he said, uncertain British politics could add a challenge.

The more that Britain is unstable politically, the more difficult it is to complete the talks on time, Grant said.

Read more

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In a city on edge over a series of Islamist-inspired attacks, where police keep extensive watchlists and monitor potential militants, terror took a new turn when a van plowed into a group of Muslim worshipers here Monday.

A man identified as Darren Osborne, a 47-year-old from Cardiff, Wales, was allegedly behind the wheel. He was not on any security watchlists. But if he took the authorities by surprise, the act capped a growing dread in Londons Muslim community.

Witnesses said the driver was heard shouting after he was wrestled to the ground that he wanted to kill Muslims. It was chilling but not, in the Finsbury Park neighborhood, entirely unexpected. Fears have been growing among Muslims here that they could be singled out by extremists in tit-for-tat attacks because of other attacks carried out in the name of Islam, even though they are widely denounced by the mainstream Muslim community.

Mondays early morning attack was confounding in another way, too. Using vans, trucks or cars as weapons poses huge challenges to public safety.

Hours after the London attack, a man in Paris drove his car into a police car; only the attacker died, but the incident underscored the difficulty of defending against violence perpetrated by vehicle.





The Paris assailant has not been publicly identified but was known to French authorities, the Associated Press reported, and was listed in a dossier of people suspected of posing a threat to national security.

In England, an attack by a man who was on no ones radar has deepened the anxiety, especially as he appears to have deliberately targeted Muslims. (Scotland Yard has not confirmed that the suspect, who was arrested, is Osborne; he was identified by several British media outfits.)

We dont feel safe anywhere, said a young man who gave his name as Adil Rana. We dont feel safe walking the streets or going to the mosque.

The incident occurred in Finsbury Park, for years considered to be a hotbed of Islamist extremism. A relatively deprived immigrant neighborhood in north London, it is the home of the Finsbury Park Mosque  once notorious for housing the radical Egyptian cleric known as Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was later extradited to the United States and found guilty of terrorism charges.

But like many of its surrounding neighborhoods, the area has rapidly gentrified in recent years, arguably becoming more diverse and tolerant at the same time. Kebab shops sit comfortably next to cafes serving flat white espressos. Finsbury Park Mosque has undergone its own dramatic reforms, too, with its extremist edges stripped away.

For the past decade, the mosque has sought to emphasize, according to its website, the true teachings of Islam as a religion of tolerance, cooperation and peaceful harmony amongst all people who lead a life of balance, justice and mutual respect.

In 2014, the mosque won a prestigious award for its services to the community. But its past links to extremism have made it  and its neighborhood  a target for criticism from Britains far right.

1 of 20 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  The scene after a van struck a crowd outside a mosque in London View Photos Police said that there were a number of casualties and that one person was arrested after a van struck a crowd of pedestrians in London. Caption Police said that there were a number of casualties and that one person was arrested after a van struck pedestrians. June 19, 2017 A police forensics officer examines a van believed to be involved in the incident near Finsbury Park Mosque in which one man was killed after a vehicle struck pedestrians. Carl Court/Getty Images Wait 1 second to continue.

Even before this attack, Muslims said they had seen a sharp rise in hate crimes, here and elsewhere in Britain.

Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia, and this is the most violent manifestation to date, Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said in a statement.

At least 10 people were injured when the van hit the crowd of worshipers who had just left a Ramadan prayer service at the Muslim Welfare House, in Finsbury Park. One man died at the scene, but police said that he was receiving first aid before the van struck, and it was unclear whether he died as a result of the attack.

Abdulrahman Aidroos said he and his friends were attending to the man who had collapsed when suddenly he saw a van driving straight into us.

The driver jumped out of the vehicle and tried to run, Aidroos said.

I tackled him on the floor until the police came, he told the BBC. When he was running, he said, I want to kill more people. I want to kill more Muslims. 

The driver was subdued by the outraged group, but one of the mosque imams appealed for calm, possibly sparing him serious harm.

We found a group of people quickly started to collect around him, around the assailant. And some tried to hit him, either kicks or punches, Imam Mohammed Mahmoud of the Muslim Welfare House told reporters. By Gods grace we managed to surround him and to protect him from any harm. We stopped all forms of attack and abuse toward him that were coming from every angle.

Mahmoud said he flagged down a passing police car and told the officers: Theres a mob attempting to hurt him. If you dont take him, God forbid he might be seriously hurt.

Rana, who witnessed the incident, said the attacker taunted onlookers as he was arrested.

He said, Id do it again,  Rana said. It was a premeditated attack. He picked this area well, and he knows Finsbury Park is predominantly a Muslim area.

Fearing copycat attacks, many Muslims urged extra security for mosques and other sites. East London Mosque, one of the citys largest, said it was evacuated Monday after receiving a fake bomb threat.

[After attack, a local imam may have saved the suspects life]

Neil Basu, a London police official, told reporters the Finsbury Park case was being treated as a terrorist attack. The suspect was arrested on terrorism charges as well as attempted murder.

British Prime Minister Theresa May met with members of the Muslim community even as they denounced a rising climate of anti-Islamic sentiment. Her response contrasted with her handling of a deadly fire in London last week, when she was widely criticized for not meeting survivors on the first day of the disaster.

[In Paris, car rams police vehicle]

This was the third attack in London this year involving vehicles, and it came a month after a suicide bombing in Manchester killed 23 people and injured more than 100.

May described Mondays attack as every bit as sickening as those that have come before. She also hailed the bravery of those who detained the driver at the scene.

Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed, she said.

[Mosque attack is perfect scenario for Islamic State recruiters]

Sadiq Khan, Londons first Muslim mayor, called the incident a horrific terrorist attack that was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

[A brief history of Trumps feuds with Londons mayor]

While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect, he said in a statement.

Saadiq Mizou, a 35-year-old chef who is from Belgium, said the attack had made him reconsider whether he could go to the mosques in Finsbury Park again.

Twenty days in a row Ive been here, he said. Nothing happened. Its all going good. People are eating, doing charity, doing things like helping people, praying and then going home. Thats it. And now thats happening? Were not safe. If I stay here, people could come and attack me with a car.

Its better to be safe and stay at home, Mizou said. Simple.

Adam Taylor in London, James McAuley in Paris and Brian Murphy in Washington contributed to this report.

Read more:

Terrorist attack on London Bridge and nearby market

Knife and vehicle assault near British Parliament

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world

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A U.S. Coast Guard investigative team arrived Monday in Japan to start piecing together the sequence of events that led to a deadly weekend collision between a Navy destroyer and a fully loaded container ship four times its size.

There are now multiple investigations into the accident, by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard as well as the Japanese Coast Guard and its Transport Safety Board.

The [U.S.] Coast Guard will be taking the lead in the marine casualty investigation, said Lt. Scott Carr, spokesman for the U.S. investigative team.

Investigators will be questioning the crew of the USS Fitzgerald, the Aegis guided-missile destroyer that collided with the ACX Crystal, a Philippine-flagged container ship, just off the Izu Peninsula. The crash site was south of the Fitzgeralds home port, the 7th Fleet base at Yokosuka, and of Tokyo, where the Crystal was headed.

Seven sailors died because of the collision, which severely damaged the berthing compartments where they were sleeping, resulting in flooding. The ships captain also was injured and was evacuated to the base hospital at Yokosuka.

1 of 20 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  Photos of the destroyer USS Fitzgerald after collision with container ship View Photos Seven U.S. Navy sailors are dead after an Aegis guided-missile destroyer, the USS Fitzgerald, collided with a container ship off the coast of Japan. Caption Seven U.S. Navy sailors are dead after an Aegis guided-missile destroyer, the USS Fitzgerald, collided with a container ship off the coast of Japan. June 17, 2017 The damage on the starboard side of the USS Fitzgerald is seen off the coast of the southeast Japanese city of Shimoda after the Navy destroyer collided with a merchant ship registered in the Phillipines. The Navy says the Fitzgerald also suffered damage below the water line. Iori Sagisawa/Kyodo News via AP Wait 1 second to continue.

One of the seven sailors was identified Sunday night as 37-year-old Gary Rehm Jr. As rescuers searched for Rehm, a shipmate stayed on board the listing Fitzgerald and texted reports to his wife in the United States, Rehms mother-in-law told The Washington Post.

She said she wasnt leaving the ship until they found him, Joan Braniff said. They kicked her off, and she stayed on the pier until they found him.

Now Erin Rehm is a widow. They had been married for nearly all of the fire controlmans 19-year Navy service, Braniff said.

You could tell right from the start he just adored her, she said. They sang karaoke on a PlayStation in Hampton, Va., when he was home and talked many times each day when he was deployed. He had been serving on the Fitzgerald for nearly two years, according to the Navy.

He was supposed to be coming home in September, Braniff said.

And next year, she said, Rehm was planning to retire from the military and stay home for good.

[There wasnt a lot of time as water flooded U.S. destroyer below decks]

The 20 crew members on the container ship, chartered by the Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen, were reported to be unharmed.

We are working to gain access to the crew of the Philippine-flagged vessel, but its taking a little bit of time to make that happen, Carr said.

The collision appears to have happened at about 1:30 a.m. Saturday, not 2:30 a.m., as the 7th Fleet reported. That was the time when the Fitzgerald alerted the 7th Fleet of the collision, a spokesman said.

The Japanese coast guard also changed its assessment of when the collision happened. It had initially said that the Crystal reported the collision at 2:25 a.m. and said it had occurred five minutes earlier.

But after interviewing the container ships crew, the coast guard said the collision happened at 1:30 a.m.

Yoshihito Nakamura, a spokesman for the Japanese coast guard, said the change in timing was not necessarily suspicious. Crews often give priority to responding to the emergency, he said, adding that the exact timeline would become clear during the investigation.

Marine tracking data showed the Crystal steaming west toward Tokyo, but shortly after 1:30 a.m. it performed a sudden U-turn and returned to where it had been.

We are fully cooperating with the investigation, said Manami Meguro, a spokeswoman for Nippon Yusen.

The ship unloaded some of its cargo at Tokyo, then continued to Yokohama, where it offloaded the rest of its containers. After that, it will likely be taken out of service while the investigation takes place, the newspaper Asahi Shimbun reported.

Both Nippon Yusen and the ships owner, Kobe-based Dainichi-Invest Corp., declined to confirm the report.

Japanese investigators boarded the container ship over the weekend and interviewed the captain and crew, according to other local news reports.

In general, when two vessels collide, then both would be subject to investigation, and suspicions of endangering marine traffic through professional negligence could apply to both vessels, said Nakamura, the coast guard spokesman.

Three investigators from Japans Transport Safety Board have inspected the container ship inside and out, spokeswoman Yuko Watanabe said. It was not clear when or whether Japanese investigators would be able to check the Fitzgerald or talk to its crew, she said.

The path of the Fitzgerald before the collision is not clear because military ships do not transmit location data like commercial vessels.

The Fitzgerald is part of the same fleet as the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, also based at Yokosuka. The Reagan carrier group, as well as other groups, have been particularly active in the area around the Korean Peninsula in recent months because of heightened tensions with North Korea. However, the Fitzgerald was operating independently of the Reagan at the time of the collision.

Avi Selk in Washington and Yuki Oda contributed to this report.

Read more:

Missing U.S. sailors found dead after collision with merchant ship off coast of Japan

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Iran has been the host to numerous executions and humans rights abuses including arrests, torture and ill-treatment of young people and dissidents. Even after the recent elections there were several executions of prisoners.

Young people have been arrested and imprisoned for attending parties. Oppression is on the rise.

There have also been numerous reports of political prisoners partaking in hunger strikes in protest against their sentences and ill-treatment by prison authorities.

During the first term of President Rouhanis time in office, more than three thousand people were executed. This included many young people with the intentions of putting fear into society in an attempt to prevent popular uprisings  something that the regime greatly apprehends.

In addition to executing thousands of people, it must not be forgotten that the Iranian regime has also neglected to give many of these people fair and lawful trials.

At the event in Paris, the PMOI will be highlighting the plight of the brave young people of Iran. Many young people who were able to flee Iran will be in attendance and will tell their stories about what it was like to live in Iran. They will be the voice of hope for the Iranian people and will pledge their support for their brothers and sisters in the homelands, showing them and reminding them that they are not alone.

Many people, including the Iranian opposition, believe that the only way for the people of Iran to become free is via the overthrow of the regime. Those attending the gathering support the opposition in the quest for peace, freedom and respect.

At the past conferences, there have been very prominent political figures from all over Europe, the United States, the Middle East and the rest of the world. They attend to show their support for the opposition and to urge the leaders of their own countries to realise how barbaric the regime is and to act accordingly.

Awareness will be raised and it is a chance for the young Iranian people to unite and to show that the people want peace, not war. The people want democracy, not dictatorship. They will make calls to the international community to make the Iranian regime be held accountable for the crimes it commits.
A car exploded as it crashed into a police vehicle on Pariss famed Champs-Elysees on Monday in what authorities called a probable terrorist attack.

Police were treating the incident as a deliberate act, and the Paris prosecutor opened a terrorism investigation.

The driver, whose identity was not immediately released, was killed in the crash, Gerard Collomb, Frances interior minister, told reporters at the scene. No one else was injured, Paris police sources said.

Police said the attacker  who was 31 and from the northwestern Paris suburb of Argenteuil  was known to French authorities, the Associated Press reported. He was reportedly listed on the governments Fiche S, a dossier of people suspected of posing a threat to national security.

Once again, French security forces were targeted with this attempted attack on the Champs-Elysees, Collomb said. He added that a number of weapons, explosives to blow up this car were discovered at the scene.

In late April, before the first round of voting in Frances presidential election, there was a similar incident on the Champs-Elysees, when a man opened fire on police parked on the street, killing one and wounding two.

The Islamic State, through its affiliated Amaq News Agency, claimed responsibility for that attack.

Mondays incident came less than a day after a vehicle attack on Muslim worshipers outside two mosques in north London. Since March, the British capital has suffered two other terrorist attacks, one of which involved a vehicle attack on Westminster Bridge outside the Houses of Parliament.

[Van strikes crowd near London mosques in terrorist attack]

France also has a history of deadly vehicle attacks: In July, an Islamic State-inspired assailant plowed through crowds gathered to celebrate Bastille Day, the national holiday, on a seaside promenade in Nice, killing 86.

Security analysts say vehicle attacks often represent last-ditch attempts at violence and are difficult to prevent.

The information that has emerged in this latest incident could fit a recent pattern, said Jean-Charles Brisard, a French intelligence expert and director of the Paris-based Center for the Analysis of Terrorism.

We have a situation where a lot of individuals are radicalized in France, and its very difficult to prevent them, he said. The intelligence services are doing a lot, but they cannot stop everyone.

Collomb said Mondays attack justified further extension of Frances state of emergency, a heightened security and surveillance regimen that has been in place since November 2015, when Islamic State militants carried out coordinated attacks on a concert hall and cafes across Paris, killing 130.

Critics have said the security regimen has not prevented attacks and has resulted in warrantless, extrajudicial searches and house arrests. Muslim advocacy organizations have said that French Muslims have been targeted disproportionately, often without probable cause.

In one of the most controversial moves of his young presidency, Emmanuel Macron has advocated enshrining certain state of emergency special police powers into French law.

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Police say 6 people slain in terrorist incidents on London Bridge and in nearby market

Four killed, 40 injured in vehicle and knife assault near British Parliament

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The United States is becoming more perilously drawn into Syrias fragmented war as it fights on increasingly congested battlefields surrounding Islamic State territory.

On Sunday, a U.S. fighter jet downed a Syrian warplane for the first time in the conflict. By Monday, a key ally of President Bashar al-Assad, Russia, had suspended a pact used to prevent crashes with the U.S.-led coalition in the skies over Syria and was threatening to target American jets.

Separately, Iran said that it had launched a barrage of missiles into Islamic State territory in eastern Syria. That assault marked Tehrans first official strike against the extremist group in Syria, and it signposted the reach of its military might against foes across the region.

The incident followed a series of U.S. airstrikes against Iran-backed forces advancing on partner forces in a strategically prized swath of land along the Iraqi border.

As the major powers on the opposite sides of Syrias war intensify operations against the Islamic State, the risks of an accidental conflagration appear to be growing by the day.

The United States intervened in Syria to roll back Islamic State forces from a self-declared caliphate that once stretched deep into Iraq. But the American role has unsettled Assads allies, threatening confrontation with Russia and thrusting Iranian-backed militiamen in a race with a U.S.-favored rebel force to reach the Islamic States eastern strongholds.

The U.S. military confirmed late Sunday night that a U.S. F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter-bomber.

The confrontation took place near the onetime Islamic State stronghold of Tabqa, hours after Syrian government forces attacked U.S.-backed fighters, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF. It was the first time that the American military has shot down a Syrian warplane during the six-year conflict.

On Monday, Russia condemned that strike as a flagrant violation of international law and said its forces will treat U.S.-led coalition aircraft and drones as targets if they are operating in Syrian airspace west of the Euphrates River while Russian aviation is on combat missions.

Pavel Baev, who studies the Russian military at the Peace Research Institute Oslo, called the threat mostly a bluff but said that calling it is risky because there are some nervous fingers on many buttons.

In a statement Monday, the SDF warned that it would retaliate in the face of further aggression from pro-Assad forces, raising the possibility that the United States could be forced to deviate further from its stated policy in Syria, which involves targeting Islamic State militants only.

The U.S.-backed military alliance is making its way through the outskirts of the Islamic States stronghold of Raqqa, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. The alliance is dominated by Kurdish forces but also includes Arab forces.





[U.S.-led airstrikes on Raqqa cause staggering civilian deaths, U.N. says]

If it again comes under attack by pro-Assad forces, Washington may be forced to defend the coalition at the risk of sparking a tinderbox of tensions with Iranian and Syrian troops in the northern province.

The only actions that we have taken against pro-regime forces in Syria  and there have been two specific incidents  have been in self-defense. And weve communicated that clearly, said Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

But Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry said it was suspending the communication channel through which such messages had been shared in order to minimize the risk of in-flight incidents between Russian and U.S.-led coalition aircraft operating over Syria.

Dunford said the two sides discussed the matter as recently as Monday morning but that further talks are required.

We work very hard on deconfliction. Weve spent the last eight months on deconfliction, Dunford told reporters at the National Press Club. Its going to require some military and diplomatic efforts in the next hours to restore deconfliction.

Col. Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition, said that appropriate platforms had been dispatched to help ensure operations would continue against the Islamic State, an apparent reference to U.S. aircraft designed to intercept enemy jets.

Engaging in a game of chicken is not what the military on both sides would enjoy, but they are just instruments of politics, which is not anywhere close to rational at this moment, neither in Moscow, nor in D.C., Baev said.

In Moscow, officials said that Sundays shoot-down was intended as a message aimed squarely at Russia.

Frants Klintsevich, deputy head of the defense and security committee of the Russian upper house of parliament, called the incident an aggression and a provocation.

It looks like Donald Trumps United States is a source of a brand-new danger both in the Middle East and the world at large, Klintsevich wrote on his Facebook page.

But some analysts said Sundays strike was an indication of the growing willingness on the part of Assads forces to confront the U.S.-led coalition as it jostles to push Islamic State militants out of eastern Syria.

That effort has been bolstered by the arrival of thousands of Shiite militiamen who had fought in a campaign across the border in Iraq to capture the city of Mosul from Islamic State militants.

The wild card here is the logic of an Assad regime which has decided that it no longer wants to be constrained to a Western Syria-based statelet, said Nicholas A. Heras, a fellow at the Washington-based Center for a New American Security.

That shift has been driven by an assessment that the Trump administration could use the territory its forces capture as a bargaining chip with which to push Assad into a political transition or Syria into a decentralized political system, Heras added.

This is now an existential issue for them, he said.

Filipov reported from Moscow. Thomas Gibbons-Neff in Washington and Kareem Fahim in Istanbul contributed to this report.

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Russia condemns U.S. missile strike on Syria, suspends key air agreement

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It was March 2020, and the world was closing down as the COVID-19 pandemic spread. At first, the news of...
Before taking office, President Trump said he would scrap the nuclear deal that was negotiated by his predecessor Obama. However, many advised against this and it turns out that these latest sanctions give him a large amount of control and power when it comes to punitive action.

It has also been reported that the initiative makes a point that Iran is an extremely dangerous state. This is something that Adel al-Jubeir, the Saudi Foreign Minister, reiterated recently on a visit to the United Kingdom.

Iran is providing a large amount of support to Shiite groups in Iraq and the countrys Vice President is worried that Iran will create sectarian rifts across the country which will result in disastrous consequences for next years parliamentary elections.

Furthermore, as the post-ISIS era is unfolding, many different parties are pursuing their interests in Syria, and Iran is making the most of this by looking for leverage where it can find it.

The sanctions agreed last week will have an effect on the countrys Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) because anyone providing a service to anyone identified on the order would be put on the US sanctions list. Temporary measures will no longer apply  the entity will be permanently sanctioned.

The Iranian regime has postponed parliaments response to the bill, leaving it very clear that it is in shock. The news is a clear indication that more sanctions will come. It also sends the message that sanctions will come as a result of executive orders instead of through legislation.

Iran will face some sizeable challenges and the international community will increase its demands. Measures, named by many as JCPOA 2, 3 and 4 will respond to Irans malign activities and actions.

The IRGC will be particularly affected by the sanctions, but the bill targets all organs of the Iranian regime.

The Iranian regime had suffered a series of setbacks in recent months, and on 1st July, the opposition will be holding its annual gathering in Paris where political and human rights figures from all across the world will reunite to show their support to the people of Iran. It is an event where one realises there is a very powerful alternative to the murderous regime in Iran. A free, democratic and tolerant Iran is possible after all.
MarineMax, Inc. operates as a recreational boat and yacht retailer and superyacht services company in the United States. It operates through two segments, Retail Operations and Product Manufacturing. The company sells new and used recreational boats, including pleasure and fishing boats, mega-yachts, yachts, sport cruisers, motor yachts, pontoon boats, ski boats, jet boats, and other recreational boats. It also offers marine parts and accessories comprising marine electronics; dock and anchoring products that include boat fenders, lines, and anchors; boat covers; trailer parts; water sport accessories, which comprise tubes, lines, wakeboards, and skis; engine parts; oils; lubricants; steering and control systems; corrosion control products and service products; high-performance accessories, including propellers and instruments; and a line of boating accessories, such as life jackets, inflatables, and water sports equipment. In addition, the company provides novelty items, such as shirts, caps, and license plates; marine engines and equipment; maintenance, repair, and slip and storage accommodation services; and boat or yacht brokerage services, as well as charters yachts and power catamarans. Further, it offers new or used boat finance services; arranges insurance coverage, including boat property, disability, undercoating, gel sealant, fabric protection, and casualty insurance coverage; and manufactures and sells sport yachts and yachts. Additionally, the company operates vacations in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. It also markets and sells its products through offsite locations and print catalog. The company has 79 retail locations in Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. MarineMax, Inc. was incorporated in 1998 and is based in Clearwater, Florida.
WABCO Holdings Inc., together with its subsidiaries, supplies electronic, mechanical, electro-mechanical, and aerodynamic products worldwide. The company engineers, develops, manufactures, and sells braking, stability, suspension, steering, transmission automation, and air management systems primarily for commercial vehicles. The company's products include pneumatic anti-lock braking systems, electronic braking systems, electronic stability control systems, brake controls, automated manual transmission systems, and air disc brakes; and various conventional mechanical products, such as actuators, air compressors, and air control valves for medium and heavy-duty trucks, buses, and trailers. It also offers pneumatic and hydraulic braking and control systems for off-highway vehicles; conventional braking systems; electronic and conventional air suspension systems; steering technologies; and vehicle electronic stability control and roll stability support products, and advanced driver assistance systems. In addition, the company supplies electronic suspension controls and vacuum pumps to the passenger car and SUV markets, as well as provides remanufacturing services. Further, it offers replacement parts, fleet management solutions, diagnostic tools, training, and other expert services for commercial vehicle aftermarket distributors and service partners, and fleet operators. The company sells its products primarily to truck and bus original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), trailer OEMs, and car manufacturers; and manufacturers of heavy duty and off-highway vehicles in agriculture, construction, mining, and other industries. WABCO Holdings Inc. was founded in 1869 and is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
This is a current list of the top 250 companies by market capitalization on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Learn more .

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is one of the largest, and most recognizable, stock exchanges in the world. The NYSE is in New York City, New York at 11 Wall Street. The NYSE has been in existence since the earliest days of the United States becoming a nation, in 1792 and is primarily made up of blue-chip companies with large market capitalizations. In fact, many of the stocks that make up the Dow Jones Composite Index (i.e. The Dow) are listed on the NYSE.

This article gives a brief history of the New York Stock Exchange. In addition, it covers topics such as what kind of stocks trade on the exchange, what are the listing requirements, how trading is performed, and what the daily price movement of the NYSE tells investors about investor sentiment.

What Were the Origins of the NYSE?

Today, the New York Stock Exchange is known as the center of the financial universe. However, the exchanges origin is far more humble. On May 17, 1792, 24 stockbrokers signed the Buttonwood Agreement creating a centralized exchange to help provide order to the securities market in what was still a young nation. The "Buttonwood Agreement comes from the tree of the same name under which the founders signed the agreement.

An initial benefit of the exchange was how it removed the need for auctioneers when trading commodities like wheat and tobacco and to set a commission rate. The exchange initially focused on government bonds.

However, the exchange had no formal home. Business was usually conducted informally in the local coffeehouses. In 1817, the exchange changed its name to the New York Stock & Exchange Board which later became the New York Stock Exchange. At this time, the exchange adopted a constitution that set the rules for trading. A group of stockbrokers met twice a day at 40 Wall Street to trade 30 stocks and bonds.

Over time, the exchange moved became the financial hub of the country and moved to its current location in 1865.

What Kind of Stocks Trade on the NYSE?

As of June 2022, the NYSE includes approximately 2,400 companies with a market capitalization of over $28.2 trillion. Although the NYSE trades stocks of all market capitalizations, its best known for trading the stocks of large cap companies. These have the benefit of being mature companies in mature industries. And many of these companies reward shareholders with dividends.

However, that also means that many of these companies are better suited for value investors as opposed to growth investors. In bear markets this stability can be a benefit for investors as these stocks tend to perform less bad than more volatile stocks. But in a bull market, these stocks are not likely to provide investors with the growth that they look for.

An interesting fact about how the NYSE and NASDAQ operate is that the companies with the five largest market caps on the NYSE are also listed on the NASDAQ exchange.

What Are the Listing Requirements For the NYSE?

The NYSE has strict guidelines that govern the types of companies that can list on the exchange. Here are the major requirements that all companies must meet:

The company must have at least 2,200 shareholders

The company must trade over 100,000 shares per month

The company must have a market valuation of over $100 million

The company must generate more than $75 million in annual revenue

However, there is at least one advantage of having such stringent requirements. That is the companies that meet the requirements generally find it easier to get more investors funds when they hold their initial public offering (IPO).

Once a company begins trading on the NYSE, it must continue to meet these requirements. If it doesnt it can be delisted. In addition to these requirements, the stock must continue to trade above $1. If the price of a stock drops below $1 for more than 29 consecutive trading days, the stock receives an Initial Price Violation Notice.

At that point, the company has 10 days to provide the exchange with a plan for bringing their shares above $1.

How are Trades Executed on the NYSE?

For over a century, the floor of the NYSE was the place for investors to be. This meant trades were conducted by traders who ran buy and sell orders across the trading floor looking to broker a deal for their clients. But with the birth of the NASDAQ exchange in 1971, the New York Stock Exchange began conducting electronic trading.

However, the NYSE continues to conduct trades in an auction style. Brokers purchase stocks on behalf of their clients or firms. Every order features a broker who will enter the order electronically and a specialist who serves as the market maker for that stock. The specialist posts bid and ask prices and manages the actual execution of the trades. And there are still a handful of stockbrokers who still traffic buy and sell orders physically on the floor of the exchange.

How Does the NYSE Signal Investor Sentiment?

Like its counterpart, the NASDAQ, the NYSE measures the risk appetite of investors. When the NYSE is moving higher over a length of time, it signals that a risk on environment. Conversely when the NYSE moves lower over a significant period, it signals that investors are moving to a risk off position.

Some Final Thoughts on the NYSE

Financial news networks plan their programming schedule around the opening and closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange. Its still considered a distinguished honor when individuals or groups are invited to ring the opening bell. In fact, Warren Buffett is attributed with saying that in the short term, the stock market acts like a voting machine. A fact that many U.S. presidents will attest to.

The NYSE is the oldest and most recognizable of all the stock exchanges. It also has the most stringent requirements for inclusion. And those requirements must be maintained even after a stock begins publicly trading on the exchange.

Although the NYSE still has a small in-person Trading Floor, much of the trading is done electronically to provide traders with the speed to execute trades.
Iran has been carrying out testing of ballistic missile despite the 2015 nuclear deal. If this does not show that Irans intentions are anything but sincere, then what will? It shows that Iran is a very real threat to the international community.

Terzi said that the European and international media has paid very little attention to what constitute gross violations of UN Security Council resolutions. During President Obamas time in office, such violations were downplayed and it seems that the worlds media followed suit.

However, this changed when Donald Trump was elected. Before even taking office, President Trump was very outspoken about the badly-negotiated nuclear deal and vowed to be hard on Iran. He is making sure that policy is more assertive and clearly addresses ballistic missile testing. For instance, the Trump administration immediately put Iran on notice when the countrys Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) conducted a missile test just after President Trump officially took office.

Terzi also highlighted that on Friday the US Senate voted to impose new sanctions on Iran and he believes that governments in Europe should do the same. He said: The EU and the global media have been slow to adapt to the new geopolitical reality, and Tehran remains barely deterred from its brazenness. As a result the world paid little attention late in May when the IRGC announced that it had completed work on a third underground facility for the production of ballistic missiles.

He highlighted that European security is placed in great danger because Iran could soon be capable of firing a missile that could reach Europe if there are no more limits placed on its nuclear program. As it stands now, Western assets in the Middle East are in danger, as is Israel which has been on the receiving end of numerous threats from Iran.

During his visit to Saudi Arabia last month, many Arab leaders told President Trump that they are greatly concerned about Irans reach across the Middle East.

Terzi emphasised that European countries need to deal with Irans behaviour. The Iranian regime brazenly disregards international regulations and does not hide its destabilising activities that are unsettling the Middle East. Businesses in Europe are keen to profit from Iranian oil and to get into the Iranian market, but are either unaware, or dont care, that it is the terrorist IRGC that controls most of this. So any involvement is a contribution to terrorism.

Terzi said that the United States is finally doing its part and now is the time for policymakers in Europe to do the same.

They should exert pressure on the EU and its national governments before their laxity leads to Iran taking a central role in a much larger crisis. They should look to the Iranian people and the expatriate community. They need to firmly support the forces of a truly democratic opposition, the values of freedom and human dignity those forces are striving for, and their fight against the clerical regime.
ERIN, Wis.  Just when it appeared the size of the moment might be getting to Brooks Koepka, he pulled out a 3-wood, gripped it and ripped it.

His ball sailed toward the green at the par-5 14th, and though it landed just short in the greenside bunker, it showed that Koepka wasnt just trying to hang on to win the 117th U.S. Open. He was going to grab this tournament by the throat.

Koepka pitched out, drained the birdie, then carded another at the 15th, and the victory march was on.

In a matter of about 10 minutes, the U.S. Open went from being a four-horse slog to the finish to a rout. There would be no dramatic ending, no Monday playoff. Koepka made sure of that on 16 with yet another birdie, capping a three-hole stretch that will forever be etched in his memory as his greatest ever.

We had to go out and try to win the tournament, Ricky Elliott, Koepkas caddy, told Yahoo Sports. Hes been hitting the ball great all tournament, and hes been putting great. He just stayed patient the whole time, and putts started going in there at the end.

The fact that Koepka was 16-under par, with a chance to tie or best Rory McIlroy for the lowest total ever in a U.S. Open, mattered only in that he could ink his name on an all-time record. The more important number at that point was four, the number of strokes between Koepka and second place. By 17, with his ball safely on the green in two shots and the finish line in sight, Koepka received his first standing ovation from the crowd around the green.

For 17 holes, Koepka had been laser-focused, eschewing the high-five attempts that are always there on the walks from one green to the next tee. But as he walked to 18, and the hands reached out, Koepka finally obliged.

It was all over but the shouting, and as Koepka made the walk down the 681 yards that make up the 18th at Erin Hills, there was plenty of that. Shouts of Take it home, Brooks! and That a boy, Brooks! filled the Wisconsin afternoon, and chants of KOEP-KAAAA! (its kept-kah, by the way) accompanied the impending champion as he approached the green.

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Brooks Koepka claimed the 2017 U.S. Open, his first career major victory. (AP)

Through three rounds, this U.S. Open had been characterized as easy, and upon first glance it might appear that way. Brian Harmans score of 12-under after 54 holes put him in rarefied territory, a space where only Tiger Woods and McIlroy had gone before in the tournaments previous 116 editions.

But on second glance, the worlds top three players (Dustin Johnson, McIlroy and Jason Day) were noticeably absent into the weekend. All three missed the cut, the first time thats happened at any major tournament since the adoption of the ranking system in 1986. In total, eight of the worlds top 12 players missed the cut, and none inside the top five were ever in contention this week.

At the start of the day, nine players were within four shots of the lead. With wind blowing drives striped down the middle into the rough and pushing online putts offline, the tournament quickly transformed from a game of attack to one of survival.

Zach Johnson found this out early when his two-footer for par didnt even threaten to hit the hole. Incredulous, Johnson walked away with his arms spread wide wondering aloud, Whaaaaat?

Brooks Koepka had reason to celebrate on Sunday. (Getty)

Eagle holes in the first three rounds suddenly became par holes, meaning birdies were tougher to come by.

But then the wind dropped, and the scores of the frontrunners did likewise. By the time the leaders made the turn on Sunday, just five players remained in realistic contention, within four strokes of the lead: Koepka, Harman, Rickie Fowler, Tommy Fleetwood and Hideki Matsuyama. Koepka held the outright lead at 14-under at the turn, with the remainder of the quintet fanned out behind. But he stumbled back to the field on the 10th, bogeying the hole to fall into a tie with Harman.

Fowlers chances faded on the 12th when he ran a birdie putt 12 feet by the hole, then missed the par comeback to fall three shots back. He later bogeyed 15, effectively ending his chances at victory. Erin Hills marked the second straight major Fowler went into Sunday with a shot at his first major, only to fail once again to break par. Fleetwood could never make any kind of move, treading water as Koepka cruised ever farther ahead.

Koepka retook the outright lead with a key par save on 13 at the same time as Harman carded his first back-nine bogey of the week at 12. Five holes ahead, Matsuyama closed out a round of 66 and posted the target score: 12-under par.

Right about then, the pressure seemed to begin cinching around Harmans neck. He bogeyed the 13th, missing a makeable three-foot putt, dropping him two strokes behind Koepka and one behind Matsuyama. Shortly afterward, Koepka turned a sand save into that handy birdie on the 14th, extending his lead to two strokes over Matsuyamas signed card.

Harman birdied the 14th, tying with Matsuyama and closing back to within two strokes of Koepka. But barely a minute later, Koepka birdied 15, the toughest hole on the course, to open up a three-stroke lead with three holes to play.

The shot into 15 was unbelievable because we were kind of in-between numbers, and he must have taken 15 yards off the iron, Elliott said. I dont know how he did it, but it was his best shot of the day.

Koepka then birdied the 16th, and it was time for the engraver to start assembling the proper letters. At that point, the only question was whether Koepka would best McIlroys record of 16-under for the lowest score to par, set in 2011.

A birdie on 16 edged Harman back past Matsuyama, but was too little, too late. Koepkas birdie streak ended with a par on 17 and he walked to the 18th with a three-stroke lead. About 20 minutes later, the trophy was his.

On a day when just 50 of the 68 players shot par or worse, when many who started atop the leaderboard retreated, Brooks Koepka shot a 5-under 67, good for 16-under and tying him with McIlroy for the record.

Thats not having the U.S. Open fall in your lap. Thats going and getting it. And on Sunday, Brooks Koepka went and got it.
Eighty-four Great Danes were rescued from horrid conditions at a suspected puppy mill in New Hampshire Friday, according to police.

The Wolfeboro Police Department began investigating the owner of the residence after receiving reports of possible animal neglect. Cops had also responded to the residence previously due to barking complaints.

Read: Police Dog Fired for Being Too Friendly Gets New Job That Fits Him Perfectly

When officers arrived, they found dozens of dogs in squalid conditions with limited access to food or water.

Police said the canines were sliding on their own feces while walking, and several had eyelids so swollen that their eyes were red. The smell of ammonia, feces and raw chicken overwhelmed rescuers.

Its astonishing that such cruelty can occur, said Lindsay Hamrick, New Hampshire State Director for the Humane Society of the United States. Im so relieved that these animals are now safe and in the hands of people who will provide proper care for them.

The dogs reportedly ranged in age from puppies to adults.

Police said Christina Fay, 60, was charged with two misdemeanor counts of animal neglect after police freed the dogs from the broken-down eight-bedroom mansion.

Nine puppies were collected at another property as well, police said.

Many of the older animals were reportedly pregnant, authorities said. Police said Fay was selling puppies for $2,500 each at a kennel.

Read: Tiny Puppy Rescued by Police Officers After Choking on Cheese

Ive never seen conditions this bad in more than 21 years of law enforcement. Words cannot describe the absolute abhorrent conditions these animals were living in, said Chief Dean Rondeau of the Wolfeboro Police Department. I'm not ashamed to tell you that I was upset. I was absolutely sickened by what I saw... I can't describe it adequately, other than to use the words abhorrent and appalling.

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The dogs are currently undergoing medical examination and treatment and will eventually be up for adoption.

Watch: Pit Bull Found with Swollen Face From 6-Pound Chain Tied Tightly Around Neck

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President Trump issued a 98-page disclosure of his financial records Friday to the Office of Government Ethics outlining his assets during the campaign and in his time in office. Though the disclosure offers insight into Trumps businesses, he has yet to release his tax returns, leaving many of the questions surrounding his finances unanswered.

Trump owes a minimum of $315 million dollars to 10 creditors in the past 15 months. According to an estimate in the Washington Post, this means his real estate business and hotel assets are worth at least $1.4 billion -- an unprecedented wealth for a sitting president.

These disclosures, however, don't require Trump to detail exact income, how much he paid in taxes, profits or losses from his various businesses, whether he has any holdings in foreign companies and how much he has donated to charity.

NEW: Donald Trump Owes At Least $315 Million To Financial Firms, Some Of Which Are Lobbying The Federal Government

Trump and members of the administration have pushed back against calls for him to issue his tax returns, most recently contending that his taxes are "under audit" by the IRS.

"I'm being audited now for two or three years, so I can't do it [release returns] until the audit is finished, obviously. And I think people would understand that," Trump said during CNN's Republican debate in February 2016.

On taxes, answers (& repeated questions) are same from campaign: POTUS is under audit and will not release until that is completed. #nonews  Kellyanne Conway (@KellyannePolls) January 23, 2017

Senior adviser Kellyanne Conway has repeatedly defended the decision by the president not to release his tax return. She repeated Trump's argument that he was under audit, adding in an interview that the Americans aren't concerned with the president's taxes.

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"The White House response is he's not going to release his tax returns," said Conway on ABC's "This Week" shortly after Trump got elected in January. "We litigated this all through the election. People didn't care," Conway added.

In April, a survey conducted by Global Strategy Group reported that 64 percent of Republicans felt Trump should release his tax returns.

Press Secretary Sean Spicer said in April that "nothing [had] changed" when asked whether Trump would release the returns.

"The president is under audit, it's a routine one, it continues, and I think the American public knows clearly where he stands, this was something he made very clear during the election cycle," Spicer told reporters on April 17.

NEW: Presidents Whose Tax Returns Became Controversial: White House Doesnt Say When Trump Will Release Tax Returns

Trump has previously made the release of his tax returns conditional on the perceived offenses of his political enemies. In 2011, Trump said that he was "maybe" going to release his tax returns when President Obama released his birth certificate. "Maybe I'm going to do the tax returns when Obama does his birth certificate," Trump told "Good Morning, America" anchor George Stephanopoulos. "I may tie my tax returns, I'd love to give my tax returns, I may tie my tax returns into Obama's birth certificate."

On the debate stage with Hillary Clinton in September 2016, Trump promised to release his tax return if Clinton released missing emails.

"I will release my tax returns, against my lawyer's wishes, when [Clinton] releases her 33,000 emails that have been deleted," he said to moderator Lester Holt.

Clinton, in the debate, responded by suggesting that Trump isn't as rich as he claims.

"Maybe hes not as rich as he says he is," Clinton said in the debate. She added that maybe Trump is "not as charitable as he claims to be," or that perhaps "he's paid nothing in federal taxes."

By not releasing his tax returns on tax day, Trump became the first president in 40 years to not release his tax returns. On April 15, the deadline to file taxes, "more than 125,000 people in more than 200 communities around the world" marched to demand that Trump release his tax returns, according to Taxmarch.org.

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Doha (AFP) - Bahrain has ordered Qatari troops serving with a coalition fighting the Islamic State group to leave its territory, a source with knowledge of the situation said on Sunday.

The soldiers, part of the US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) which is headquartered in Bahrain, had been asked to leave the coalition and may depart within the next 48 hours, the source told AFP.

"The Bahrainis told the US general in command of the base that Qatari soldiers must leave," the source said on condition of anonymity.

"They are still in the base but likely to leave within the next two days."

The news comes as the Gulf faces the biggest diplomatic crisis in recent years, with regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia and some of its allies suspending ties with gas-rich Qatar over accusations the emirate bankrolled Islamist extremists and had ties to rival Iran.

Qatar denies the charges.

Direct tensions between Manama and Doha have been further exacerbated after Bahrain accused Qatar of directly interfering in its internal affairs.

Qatar has also denied those charges.

The source did not detail the number of Qatari troops based in Bahrain. One analyst estimated it was no more than a "handful of officers".

Qatar has deployed troops with NAVCENT since 2014, according to one official.

NAVCENT is part of the US Central Command whose area of operation includes the Middle East and Asia.

As part of their operations, numerous air strikes against IS targets in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan have been conducted from Qatar's Al-Udeid, the largest US base in the region.

Washington is involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the impasse in the region but US policy has proved unpredictable.

President Donald Trump has sided with Saudi Arabia and its allies, including Bahrain, the UAE and Egypt, claiming Doha had "historically been a funder of terrorism at a very high level".

However, Pentagon and State Department officials have scrambled to reassure the emirate.

The United States last week agreed to a $12 billion sale of F-15 fighters to Qatar.
Brussels (AFP) - Britain and the EU begin tough Brexit talks on Monday, trying to complete one of the most complex negotiations in history in less than two years.

The talks are starting on time despite chaos in London after Prime Minister Theresa May lost her parliamentary majority this month after a disastrous election result.

Here are the key issues as Britain's Brexit minister David Davis and the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier of France, meet in Brussels.

- Sequencing -

Britain seems to have tacitly accepted the EU's plan for sequenced talks, which will focus first on the terms of Britain's withdrawal, with negotiations on a future relationship and trade deal coming later.

In her letter triggering the two-year Brexit process on March 29, May had insisted that Britain wanted to discuss them in parallel.

EU officials suggested the apparent climbdown could buy May's unstable government breathing space to actually decide what kind of future relationship it wants.

"The fact they are coming and that they agree to talk about the subjects that we set out, shows that the clash is under control," a senior European official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The EU has set three priority areas: Britain's exit bill, the rights of EU citizens living in Britain, and Northern Ireland.

But Monday's talks will seek mainly to tie down the timing, with the EU suggesting monthly cycles over the summer.

The aim is to get EU leaders to agree at a summit in October that there is "sufficient progress" on the divorce to move on to future ties.

- The bill -

The issue most likely to torpedo negotiations is Britain's bill for leaving the bloc.

Brussels first mentioned a figure of 60 billion euros (53 billion pounds, $67 billion) but it is now closer to 100 billion, EU sources told AFP.

The EU says Britain must honour its contributions to the bloc's budget, which has already been agreed up to 2020, as well as commitments to development programmes for poorer member states.

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But the true figure could be far lower, as the 100 billion does not account for tens of billions that Britain is set to get back in shared assets and rebates.

- Citizens -

The EU wants to secure the rights of more than three million Europeans living in Britain -- and over one million Britons living on the continent.

Currently, Europeans have the right to live, work, study and claim welfare benefits in Britain, as they do anywhere in the 28-nation union.

Brussels insists that those living in Britain now should be able to keep those rights after Brexit.

Aware that this is a priority for the EU, May is reportedly set to make a "generous offer" on the issue early in the talks.

But EU officials have warned her off trying to do this at an EU summit this Thursday, saying it is too soon.

"Many people are afraid that what is presented as a very generous offer will not be seen as very generous, which could really contribute to a negative atmosphere," a European source said.

- Northern Ireland -

The third key issue is the future of the peace process in the British province of Northern Ireland, and the status of the border with the Republic of Ireland.

The EU says it wants to avoid the return of a "hard border" with Ireland that would require passport controls and customs checks, but how that will be possible without Britain staying part of the EU single market or customs union is not clear.

The sensitive issue has been thrown into further doubt by May's efforts to seek a deal with Northern Ireland's ultra-conservative Democratic Unionist Party to stay in power after the British election.

The loyalist DUP has said it will not accept any "special status" for Northern Ireland in the EU after Brexit, which would eliminate one of the leading suggestions for a solution.

- Future -

Barnier wants agreement on the withdrawal, and on a transitional path to a future relationship, by October 2018, so that the European and British parliaments can ratify the deal by Brexit day in March 2019.

What that future relationship will look like remains anyone's guess.

Many in Britain have seen the election result as repudiating May's threats to walk away without a deal.

Speculation has also mounted that she could now seek a softer Brexit, which involves staying in either the EU's single market or customs union.

But EU officials are sceptical that May's position has changed, just as they are doubtful about the feasibility of either option.

An EU-UK trade deal is far from plain sailing, however, with Brussels warning it could take up to seven years after Brexit to agree on one.
Paris (AFP) - The aircraft industry descends on Paris for the world's biggest airshow Monday, which sees bitter rivals Boeing and Airbus battle for contracts as newcomers snap at the heels of the two giants.

Single-aisle planes for short and medium distances are the hottest ticket in the world's civil aviation industry, with airline demand for models in the Airbus A320 family giving the European company an edge, for now, over its American opponent, which is racing to return in force to the mid-range segment.

But the duopoly is not without challengers: Competition is looming, notably from Russia and China who have each been test-flying their own mid-range models.

Boeing, meanwhile, is to showcase the 737 Max 9 model as its anti-Airbus weapon in a market segment where squeezing a few more seats into a narrow-body cabin while eking out increased fuel efficiency over greater ranges is key.

Airbus's biggest-capacity member of the mid-range family, the brand new A321neo, is able to fit in 236 seats in an all-economy class version. Low-cost airlines are eyeing the aircraft to break profitably into transatlantic routes.

Coming up next from Boeing is the 737 Max 10 which is to match that capacity, while also being lighter and cheaper, the plane maker has said. Test flights have been completed and Boeing is now talking to customers about placing orders.

"This airplane would give airlines increased capacity and the lowest seat costs ever for a single-aisle airplane," said Randy Tinseth, vice president for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

"Simply put, the 737 MAX 10X would be the most profitable single-aisle airplane the industry has ever seen," he wrote in a blog entry.

Airbus will also showcase its new long-haul model A350-1000 and Boeing its 787-10 Dreamliner while Ukraine's Antonov will present its 132 D.

While new civilian aircraft orders will probably fall short of the $130 billion the Paris show clocked up last time -- mostly thanks to booming orders for Boeing and Airbus -- the industry is still optimistic about sustained long-term growth.

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Airbus said earlier this month it expects the market for large passenger planes to more than double in the next 20 years driven by growth from Asian markets.

The planemaker predicts the need for 35,000 new planes worth $5.3 trillion over the next two decades, an increase from last year's estimates.

The biennial Paris Airshow, which runs to June 25, is expected to attract 150,000 industry professionals from 2,370 companies.

There will also be some 200,000 regular visitors, many of whom will come especially for spectacular displays of supersonic military hardware as fast combat planes break the sound barrier. One star performer will be Lockheed Martin's F-35A new generation fighter jet.

burs-jh/rl/klm
Washington Nationals slugger Bryce Harper will be the first to admit he owes a lot to his dad. Hes said as much over his career, crediting his pops for instilling him with a hard work ethic and a desire to succeed. When Harper competed in the Home Run Derby, he made sure his father would be the one throwing him the ball.

Harpers admiration for his father is already pretty well known, but he spread his message even further on Fathers Day. As a tribute to the man who raised him, Harper wore eye black with a special message to his dad.

Under his right eye, Harpers eye black had a heart emoji and the word my. Under his left, the word dad. Put that together, and you get love my dad.

Bryce Harper sent a message to his dad on Fathers Day. (MLB.com Screenshot)

Maybe thats not exactly how the heart emoji translates, but you get the message.

Harpers father, Ron, works with iron, tying rebar. Its tough manual labor. Bryce saw how hard his father had to work, and that pushed him to practice and train at his craft every day. MLB.com did a short feature on the relationship between the two in 2013.

On top of the eye black message, Harper also wrote a tribute to his dad on Instagram.

In 2015, Harper skipped out on the Home Run Derby while his father was recovering from rotator cuff surgery. Turns out, throwing countless balls to your son every single day takes a toll on your arm.

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Ron is healthy now, and so is his son. Bryce is off to a blazing start, hitting .317/.421/.609, with 17 home runs, over 273 plate appearances. When MLB asks him to participate in the Home Run Derby again this year, we know who hell call.

(BLS H/N: FTW)

More MLB coverage from Yahoo Sports:

      

Chris Cwik is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Chris_Cwik
Carla Bruni, model, singer-songwriter, former First Lady of France, is still squashing rumors of an extra-marital relationship with Donald Trump after more than 25 years. (Photo: Getty Images)

Carla Bruni, former supermodel, former First Lady of France, and current pop chanteuse, is currently doing the press rounds to promote her new album. While discussing her unique career, Bruni is also fielding plenty of questions about her rumored relationship with the current president of the United States.

Brunis connection with Donald Trump stems back to the early 1990s, when gossip in the press alleged that Bruni who was in the midst of her modeling career at the time, was the reason Trump was ending his relationship with Marla Maples. At the time Bruni was a one of the highest paid models in the business. A story in the New York Post reported the Trump-Bruni connection and Trump himself was happy to trumpet it as the truth. At the time, Bruni dismissed the whole thing as a lie.





Trump is obviously a lunatic, she explained to the Daily Mail in 1991. Its so untrue and Im deeply embarrassed by it all. Ive only ever met him once, about a year ago, at a big charity party in New York. And I havent seen him since, of that Im sure.

In a recent interview with the Daily Beast, Bruni reaffirmed her position. Actually, the whole situation was very vague and just did not exist. So I was very surprised when he went to the press, said Bruni.

On the persistence of the rumors and whether or not it was Trump himself who planted the hearsay in the cooperative gossip press (since the 1970s Trump posed as his own press agent using phony names), Bruni seems unfazed and unimpressed.

Brunis entanglement with the Trump name extends beyond the 45th president  Bruni has long been compared in various forms and fashions to Melania Trump as well. On the surface, both were models, both obviously connected to men in executive levels of power, and both were involved in their own respective nude photo imbroglios. Though, Bruni herself doesnt consider her case very embarrassing.

Whats the scandal about? she asked in her Daily Beast interview. To me, morality has to do with being a good person, so I dont see any immorality with being nude at all. I see immorality as being unkind, cheating and lying to people. Thats immorality to me. But not being a pretty young girl and posing nude.

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Whether or not Brunis latest round of press will do much to squash the rumors that she and Trump had a fling, it appears Bruni couldnt care less. She seems far more interested in pursuing her musical career than worrying about planted rumors from over 25 years ago.

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By James Kunslter on 19 June 2017 for Kunstler.com -

Image above: Rochelle Pipier (L) and Tonya Tedrow (R) in Littleton, West Virginia, where poverty and opioids are destroying people and community. From ( http://www.post-gazette.com/local/region/2015/05/31/Littleton-W-Va-is-a-town-decimated-by-poverty-drugs/stories/201504280190 ).

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SUBHEAD: The public may not give a shit about the Middle East or federal dairy supports, but theyll notice when their money is worthless.It aint bragging if its true. Ive said repeatedly on this blog for years that the federal government would only become more impotent, more incompetent, and more ineffectual as The Long Emergency rolled out. And here we are now, at just such pass in history.The process has been well underway since the beginning of the century. Even the attempts to expand its scope and reach  such as the post 9-11 addition of God-knows-how-many new intelligence services  has only produced an epic clusterfuck of cross-purposed mission creep that threatens the federal governments existential legitimacy.After nearly a year of investigating, the FBI, the CIA, the NSA, the DIA, DHS, et. al. havent been able to leak any substantial fact about Russian collusion with the Trump election campaign  and, considering the torrent of leaks about all manner of other collateral matters during this same period, it seems impossible to conclude that there is anything actually there besides utterly manufactured hysteria.Now, one might imagine that thiscould havesome gift-wrapped facts rather than just waves of hysteria, but thats where the incompetence and impotence comes in.They never came up with anything besides Flynn and Sessions having conversations with the Russian ambassador  as if the ambassadors are not here to have conversations with our government officials.Youd think that with all the computer graphics available these days they could concoct a cineplex-quality feature film-length recording of Donald Trump making a great deal to swap Kansas for Lithuania, or Jared Kushner giving piggyback rides to Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.But all weve really ever gotten was a packet of emails from the Democratic National Committee and John Podesta of the Clinton campaign gloating about how nicely they fucked over Bernie Sanders  and that doesnt exactly reflect so well on what has evolved to be the so-called Resistance.The net effect of all this sound and fury is a government so paralyzed that it cant even pass bad legislation or execute its existing (excessive) duties. That might theoretically be a good thing, except what were seeing are individual departments just veering off on their own, especially the military, which now operates without any civilian control.Apparently General Mattis, the Secretary of Defense, pretty much decided on his own to dispatch another 8,000 US troops to Afghanistan to move things along there in the wars 16year. Or did he get President Trump to look up from his Twitter window for three seconds to explain the situation and get a nod of approval?Perhaps you also didnt notice the news item over the weekend that a US-led fighter plane coalition shot down a Syrian air force plane in Syrian airspace. In an earlier era that could easily be construed as an act of war.Who gave the order for that, you have to wonder. And what will the consequences be? Reasonable people might also ask: havent we already made enough deadly mischief in that part of the world?With the US military gone rogue in foreign lands, and the intelligence community off-the-reservation at home, and the Trump White House all gummed up in the tarbaby of RussiaGate, and the House and Senate lost in the shuffle, you also have to wonder what anybody is going to do about the imminent technical bankruptcy of the USA as the Treasury Department spends down its dwindling fund of remaining cash money to pay ongoing expenses  everything from agriculture subsidies to Medicare.That well is going dry in the middle of the summer, and without any resolution to the debt ceiling debate, the country will not be able to borrow more to pretend that its solvent.I dont see any indication that the House and Senate will be able to bluster their way through this. Instead, the situation will compel extraordinary new acts of financial fraud via the central banks and its cadre of Too-Big-To-Fail associates. In the event, the likely outcome will be a spectacular fall in the value of the US dollar, and perhaps consecutively, the collapse of the equity and real estate markets.The public may not give a shit about Syria, Afghanistan, or federal dairy supports, but theyll sure perk up and notice that their money is going worthless. I doubt theyll be clamoring for Hillary Clinton to be installed as the first US Caesar to fix it all.
Donald Trump meeting with Barack Obama following election win: EPA

Donald Trump has claimed his approval rating is higher than that of Barack Obama  despite the data he is referring to suggesting the opposite is true.

The new Rasmussen Poll, one of the most accurate in the 2016 election, just out with a Trump 50 per cent approval rating. Thats higher than Os #s! he wrote in an early morning tweet.

Last week, the President had tweeted an image of a Rasmussen Reports poll that put his approval rating at 50 per cent  the first time it had been above 50 per cent since April.

The new Rasmussen Poll, one of the most accurate in the 2016 Election, just out with a Trump 50% Approval Rating.That's higher than O's #'s!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) 18 June, 2017

His approval rating has ranged from a high of 59 per cent in late January shortly after he took office, to a low of 42 per cent in early April, said the polling company.

On Sunday, Mr Trump sought to double down on the positive news by claiming his numbers were higher than those of his predecessor, Barack Obama.

However, data from the same polling company suggests that is not true. Mr Obama entered office on 20 January 2009 with an approval rating of 67 per cent. At this same stage of his presidency, his rating had slipped to 55 per cent, a level that was still a clear five points higher than that of Mr Trump.

Mr Obamas lowest approval rating, as measured by Rasmussen, was in June 2010 when it fell to 42 per cent. His final score, on 17 January 2017, was 62 per cent.

Other polling companies have given Mr Trump, currently being investigated by a special prosecutor for possible obstruction of justice, a considerably lower rating.

Real Clear Politics, a site which collates data from the major national polls, estimated Mr Trumps approval rating to be 39.9 per cent from May 30 to June 15. The Huffington Posts latest average puts the Presidents approval rating at 38.8 per cent.
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump holds a sign supporting coal during a rally at Mohegan Sun Arena in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania: Getty

Donald Trump is taking the US back to the past with his decision to withdraw the country from the Paris Agreement on climate change and efforts to revitalise the coal industry, a senior Vatican official has said.

Bishop Marcelo Sanchez Sorondo, head of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, told Reuters that people should trust scientists to describe the world around them, comparing those who did not to flat-Earthers.

The Argentinian cleric suggested the quality of science teaching in the US was partly to blame for the refusal by many to accept established facts about climate change, saying the German public was more educated in sciences and believe in science.

The US President has claimed climate change is a hoax, appointed a string of deniers and sceptics to senior positions in his administration, and has started rolling back legislation designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the natural world. He also argued that the Paris Agreement would damage the American economy.

But Bishop Sanchez Sorondo said energy was increasingly being produced by renewable energy, rather than fossil fuels, so Mr Trumps decision to promote coal was a mistake.

This is to go back to the past and not to see the future, he said. The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement was a disaster for this country (the United States) and also for all the world.

He added that Pope Francis feared any harm to the environment would be like a harmful boomerang that will come back ... especially to poor people.

Clearly thinking of climatologists, Bishop Sanchez Sorondo said it was important people listened to experts.

The real situation of the Earth today, of the planet, is described by scientists, he said.

To illustrate that point, he said it was difficult to say the Earth is not round  as demonstrated by scientists, astronauts and explorers, among others  even though it seems flat when standing on the ground.
Quora

Photo: Quora

This question originally appeared on Quora. Answer by Alik Griffin.

He is possibly a high-functioning sociopath from stories Ive heard from people that have worked with him as well as looking at his business practices.

Not all sociopaths or psychopaths are violent, cruel or evil. And like with many mental disorders, there is no clear boundary. This illness means you lack empathy, dont feel remorse or guilt and arent able to form real emotional attachments with others. Of course, in a varying degree. Everyone likely has met, or knows a sociopath or two.

Its a very common behavior with successful business owners, bankers, and it would seem film directors. Psychopaths often hold normal jobs, can have families and are often seen as being charming or trustworthy.

The reasons I would think Musk is a high-functioning psychopath, or sociopath is because he seems rather delusional with the concept of the Hyperloop, which is an engineering impossibility, as well as his desire to colonize mars. Hes also frequently firing employees to the point where they go to Apple and the employees there refer to Apple as the Tesla Graveyard. This impulsive firing of employees would suggest he is a sociopath as sociopaths are often very impulsive.

Musk is also often caught lying about firing employees, as well as lying to investors about the engineering possibilities and deadlines. Not to mention he got to be the CEO of Tesla by getting the founder and former CEO (Martin Eberhard) fired, where he then took his job. Eberhard was later quoted saying - Musk "is the kind of boss where day to day you don't know if you have a job or not.

Sounds pretty much like a classic sociopath. Maybe psychopath, although I believe psychopaths are a bit less impulsive. I would even go as far as saying Musk doesnt even care about the environment, but uses this trend to gain power and fame. Of course, we all fall for it and praise him for being so amazing.

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But if you think about it, on one hand he has an eco friendly car company thats suppose to be great for the environment, on the other hand he has Space X, a black soot carbon generating space rocket company thats extremely hazardous to the environment, especially the ozone.

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Warning: Spoilers ahead!

Fear the Walking Dead finally revealed what happened to Daniel Salazar after the fire. Since Daniel is from El Salvador, and the episode takes place in Mexico, the producer decided to make almost the entire 100 episode in Spanish with English subtitles.

After Daniel burned down Celias home he managed to escape, though badly injured. He was discovered by a man named Efrain. Efrain is a good soul who fills water containers from a secret well and distributes the water to survivors.

Efrain brought Daniel to Lola, who runs the maintenance crew for Dantes dam. Using a barbers razor, Lola removed the rot from Daniels leg so that he could walk again. But once he was nursed back to health, Daniel ran away.

Daniel washed up in a storm drain, and Lola was forced to save him again by saying he was her new janitor. That didnt last long though, because Dante noticed Daniel from the civil war in El Salvador. Dante was a big fan of Daniel and promoted him to the upper management of the dam cartel.

Daniels first assignment was to torture his friend Efrain into giving up Lola. It was tough watching Daniel beat Efrain, but just when he was about deliver the final blow, Lola jumped in and confessed.

Dante had all the people involved in giving water to the needy thrown off the dam. But Daniel had different ideas and killed Dante and his men. He then gave control of the dam over to Lola and Efrain and asked for forgiveness.

Fear the Walking Dead airs Sundays at 9 p.m. on AMC.

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Bamako (AFP) - Five soldiers were killed Saturday in northern Mali, where a surge in violence has prompted calls for the UN to create a new anti-jihadist force for the region.

Eight soldiers were wounded and nine vehicles were destroyed in the attack on the camp at Bintagoungou at about 5:00 am, an army statement said.

Local sources told AFP earlier Saturday that jihadists led the assault, which took place around 80 kilometres (50 miles) from Timbuktu, and has not been claimed.

"All the camp's military material was ransacked," a local official told AFP.

A resident earlier said that there were "no Malian soldiers to be seen -- the camp has been laid waste. The jihadists left with military hostages."

Northern Mali continues to fall prey to jihadist attacks. Four people were killed in an assault on UN peacekeepers near their base in Kidal earlier this month.

The Group to Support Islam and Muslims, also known as Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen in Arabic, a fusion of three jihadist groups with previous Al-Qaeda links formed in March, claimed that attack.

Led by the Malian jihadist Iyad Ag Ghaly, a former leader of the Ansar Dine Islamists, the group has claimed multiple attacks on domestic and foreign forces since its formation, notably the 12,000-member MINUSMA UN force.

MINUSMA began operations in 2013, providing security to and assisting Malian troops in a region which fell to jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda in March 2012.

Although a French-led military intervention the following year drove the groups out of key towns, they have since spread further south in the troubled West African nation.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.
Former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, one of the pioneer conservative leaders of the 20th Century, who was credited with reuniting Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall, died at the age of 87 due to natural causes, Friday.

Kohl was born in Ludwigshafen, Germany in April 1930. After receiving a doctorate degree from Heidelberg University, Helmut began his political career as the leader of the Christian Democratic Union party in 1960, Biography reported.

Helmut Kohl

Photo: Getty Images/ Andreas Rentz

He went on to become the Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate from 1969 to 1976.

Kohl has been a part of both the divided Germany as well as the reunited Germany. He has served as the Chancellor of West Germany from 1982 to 1990 and reunited Germany from 1990 to 1998. He also witnessed the end of Cold War.

Read: John Avildsen Cause Of Death: Rocky Director Dies At 81

In 2008, Kohl married his second wife, Maike Richter. He was previously married to Hannelore Renner in 1960, who committed suicide due to an unbearable medical condition. He has two sons from his first marriage, Walter and Peter Kohl.

Apart from a huge political legacy, Kohl left behind a net worth, estimated at $1.5 million, Celebrity Net Worth reported.

Kohl has also received an array of awards for his political achievements. In 1988, Kohl and former French president Francois Mitterrand received the Charlemagne Prize. Both the then leaders are believed to be responsible for the establishment of the European Union (EU).

Helmut Kohl

Photo: Getty Images/Marcel Mochet

Kohl was also awarded Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation (1996) and Honorary Citizen of Europe (1998).

Read: Carrie Fisher Real Cause Of Death Revealed; Daughter Billie Lourd Responds To Drug Use Report

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Diplomatic relations between Germany and the United States were at an all-time high at the time when Kohl led his country. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush have praised Kohl, calling him "the greatest European leader of the second half of the 20th century".

Helmut Kohl

Photo: Getty Images/Stephen Jaffe

In fact, it was Kohls conscious effort to mend relations with the superpowers of the world in order to forge alliances with anti-communist Western allies and the leaders of the collapsing Soviet Union.

Kohl lobbied heavily for the introduction of Euro, which was implemented in 1999 and went on to become a currency that currently unites 19 countries in Europe, BBC reported.

Present leaders of the world have expressed their condolences on the death of Germanys revolutionary leader, who led his country for 16 long years.

The longest serving Chancellor in modern German history, Chancellor Kohl was a friend and ally to the United States as he led the Federal Republic of Germany through sixteen pivotal years, President Donald Trump said in a statement, The Hill reported. He was not only the father of German reunification, but also an advocate for Europe and the transatlantic relationship. The world has benefited from his vision and efforts. His legacy will live on.

We feel that a life has ended and he who lived it will go down in history, said German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In this moment, I am thinking with great respect and great gratitude on that life and work."

"I was lucky to communicate with Helmut Kohl in person. I sincerely admired his wisdom and ability to take balanced and forward-thinking decisions even amid the knottiest situations," Russian President Vladimir Putin said, Tass reported. "He will be remembered in Russia as a staunch advocate of friendly relations between our countries, as a person who made an enormous contribution to the strengthening of mutually beneficial bilateral partnership and good neighborhood."

Also, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker has ordered flags at EU institutions to be flown at half-mast in Kohls honor.

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Washington (United States) (AFP) - US leaders mourned the death of Helmut Kohl on Friday, praising his role in the reunification of Germany, with former president George H.W. Bush calling him "one of the greatest leaders in post-War Europe."

"Helmut hated war -- but he detested totalitarianism even more," Bush said in a statement of the former German chancellor.

"Working closely with my very good friend to help achieve a peaceful end to the Cold War and the unification of Germany within NATO will remain one of the great joys of my life," he added.

Former president Bill Clinton said he was "deeply saddened" by the death of "my dear friend" whose "visionary leadership prepared Germany and all of Europe for the 21st century."

"He was called upon to answer some of the most monumental questions of his time, and in answering them correctly he made possible the reunification of a strong, prosperous Germany and the creation of the European Union," Clinton said.

"I will never forget walking with him through the Brandenburg Gate in 1994 for a large rally on the eastern side, and seeing genuine hope in the eyes of tens of thousands of young people," he said.

"I knew at that moment that Helmut Kohl was the man who could help them realize their dreams. History continues to prove that he delivered."

President Donald Trump hailed Kohl as a "friend and ally" of the United States.

"He was not only the father of German reunification, but also an advocate for Europe and the transatlantic relationship. The world has benefitted from his vision and efforts. His legacy will live on," Trump said in a White House statement.
HONOLULU  Three years after setting sail from Hawaii using only the stars, the wind and ancient Polynesian navigation techniques to voyage around the world, the Hokulea, a traditional double-hulled Hawaiian sailing canoe, has arrived back home on the island of Oahu.

Thousands of people welcomed the Hokulea as it docked in Magic Island in Honolulu early Saturday morning. Hawaiians greeted the canoe and its crew with traditional chants.

The homecoming, which marks the end of a difficult and meaningful voyage, was an emotional one for many. As the canoe approached land, a rainbow could be seen just off the horizon.

The Hokulea was greeted by a rainbow as it sailed past Waikiki this morning. This photo was taken from Elks Lodge 616 about 7:20 a.m. pic.twitter.com/kYqpdAJgIb  Ian Lind (@ilind) June 17, 2017

Initiating protocol, @oha_hawaii Ka Pouhana, Kamanaopono Crabbe is heard by Hokulea and the rows of people aroun https://t.co/1Lj1xE3gRl?ncid=edlinkushpmg00000313pic.twitter.com/ty3HrwSPmj  Hokulea (@HokuleaWWV) June 18, 2017

A post shared by OluKai (@olukai) on Jun 17, 2017 at 9:56am PDT

In 2014, navigators with the Polynesian Voyaging Society set sail on the Hokulea with one message: To inspire communities around the world to take care of island Earth. In its voyage, the Hokulea and her crew traveled more than 40,000 nautical miles, visiting 150 ports in 23 countries, including stops in South Africa, Brazil, Tahiti and New York City.

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The Hokuleas unique mission is a point of pride for the Aloha State.

Hawaii is one of the few states that has pushed back against the Trump administrations policies on climate change. This month, Governor David Ige, a Democrat, signed a bill that binds the state of Hawaii to the goals made in the Paris climate accord, despite President Donald Trumps decision to pull the country from the agreement. In 2015, Hawaii became the first state to enact a law requiring that 100 percent of its electricity come from renewable sources by 2045.

Watching you on your epic voyage, you taught us that there is more than connects the world than divides us, Ige said to the Hokulea crew during Saturdays ceremony, according to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

See the residents of Hawaii welcome the Hokulea home in the photos below.

A post shared by Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage (@hokuleawwv) on Jun 17, 2017 at 9:28am PDT

Spectators, fans, friends and family embrace as crews from eight Polynesian voyaging canoes disembark and head tow https://t.co/IhgwBiBTg1?ncid=edlinkushpmg00000313pic.twitter.com/N7FvIa8Ztk  Hokulea (@HokuleaWWV) June 17, 2017

A post shared by Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage (@hokuleawwv) on Jun 17, 2017 at 2:32pm PDT

Crowds spill into water amongst the canoes of Ohana Waa, an amazing sight that will go down in the history books https://t.co/6zhqoftFf5?ncid=edlinkushpmg00000313pic.twitter.com/SsYbKM2GZt  Hokulea (@HokuleaWWV) June 17, 2017

The scene earlier this morning as Hokulea made her way into port at Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park after visi https://t.co/CaurKXNxuz?ncid=edlinkushpmg00000313pic.twitter.com/RZOoN5gafb  Hokulea (@HokuleaWWV) June 17, 2017

A post shared by Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage (@hokuleawwv) on Jun 17, 2017 at 4:20pm PDT

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A post shared by Diliaur Tellei (@pinpomme) on Jun 17, 2017 at 6:39pm PDT

A post shared by Raiza May F. Gabarda (@raizamay18) on Jun 17, 2017 at 6:18pm PDT

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
Yahoo News peaks behind the curtain of secrecy surrounding the Republican health care bill, to learn what we can about what it may contain. Well combine our own original reporting with the best insight from around the internet to give you the latest on the future of health care in America.

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With the clock ticking on the Senates efforts to turn out their own health care bill by early July, more and more Republican lawmakers are growing frustrated at their own partys lack of transparency in the drafting process.

These grumblings are not limited to more moderate senatorseven Sens. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., and Marco Rubio, R-Fla., have expressed concern about the accelerated timeline that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has undertaken.

Ive said from Day 1, and Ill say it again, Corker told The New York Times. The process is better if you do it in public, and that people get buy-in along the way and understand whats going on. Obviously, thats not the route that is being taken.

The Senate is not a place where you can just cook up something behind closed doors and rush it for a vote, Rubio told the Associated Press. So the first step in this may be crafted among a small group of people, but then everyones going to get to weigh in.

McConnell has said the Senate will not take up a health care bill without waiting for the Congressional Budget Office to analyze its potential effect on bringing down premiums. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, told the Portland Press Herald last week that she would not vote for the bill without this step.

Im not going to vote for a bill whose impact has not been analyzed by the CBO, Collins said. I think that it is not a responsible way to legislate, when you dont know the impact on cost and coverage. I always believe legislation is best crafted through the normal order. I think its much better to have committee consideration of bills, public hearings and to have a full debate. Thats the process for most well-considered legislation.

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But Collins, Rubio, Corker and others who have said they would like to have the drafting process be more transparent have not committed to making their support of a bill conditional on it being made public in the form of a committee hearing or markup.

A spokesperson for Rubio referenced us to the interview referenced above and did not say whether the senator would insist on public hearings as part of the process. A spokesperson for Collins did not return request for comment.

McConnell has insisted that a vote will happen before Congress customary July 4 recess. But in order to pass a bill he needs 50 votes and there are only 52 Republicans in the Senate, meaning that if any two of his members wants to force a more transparent process they could.

The health care bill only gets to remain secret if Republican senators allow it to. They could force it into the sunlight if that was their desire, Voxs Sarah Kliff wrote Friday. A decision not to do so is tacit consent to a closed process, no matter how much Republican senators criticize that process to the press.

It remains to be seen if any Republicans elect to choose that route in an effort to create a more open process. But McConnell has to unify his caucus on other issues as well: Collins and Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, has expressed doubt about the bills effect on Medicaid expansion and potential defunding of Planned Parenthood. More conservative members, like Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Rand Paul, R-Ky., have called for the bill to go even farther.

These facts combine to mean that any senator who wishes to slow down the process and force a hearing, earning plaudits from consumer advocates and their Democratic colleagues, could do so with little trouble.

Democrats have been trying to back off the breakneck speed and hold a hearing in any of a number of committees. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and others sent a letter to their Republican colleagues noting the plethora of hearing rooms available for a public review of the bill and committed to attending any proceedings.

If you schedule a hearing, we guarantee all Democratic members of the Senate HELP, Finance or Budget Committee will be in attendance at any time or place that you choose, the Democratic senators wrote, referring to three key committees which could be tasked with reviewing the bill before it hits the Senate floor.

Arguing in the letter that Democrats strived for transparency in the passage of Obamacare in 2010 and said that a closed-door process would harm the American people.

The American Health Care Act would fundamentally redefine health care in this country, the letter said. To draft it behind closed doors and pass it without one hearing is nothing short of legislative malpractice and a repudiation of all that the Senate stands for.

How the Democrats Plan to Stop GOP Health Care Bill

By Taylor Rogers

As the republicans self imposed deadline of July 4 to repeal and replace Obamacare draws near, Senate democrats have begun to weigh their options to keep the health care bill off of the Senate floor. According to Politico, the democrats plan to take one of their first major actions against the bill tonight, by holding the Senate floor until at least midnight to urge republicans to openly discuss their health care bill.

I think that the Democrats in the Congress should do everything possible, A, to defeat that legislation, which is, again, to my mind, unspeakable, Sen. Bernie Sanders said on CNNs Face the Nation Sunday when asked about the event.

Despite deep division with the GOP over the secret health care bill, senate democrats will take a strong course of action to stop it. According to Politico, Minority Leader Chuck Schumer will also lead the democrats in shutting down the Senate by all unanimous consent requests during the protest Monday night.

Republicans are drafting this bill in secret because theyre ashamed of it, plain and simple, Schumer told Politico. These are merely the first steps were prepared to take in order to shine a light on this shameful Trumpcare bill and reveal to the public the GOPs true intentions: to give the uber-wealthy a tax break while making middle class Americans pay more for less health care coverage. If Republicans wont relent and debate their health care bill in the open for the American people to see, then they shouldnt expect business as usual in the Senate.

Democrats could also use Senate rules to prevent committee meetings lasting over two hours, which would make it difficult for Republicans to schedule votes on routine measures, let alone health care reform according to Bloomberg.

However for many Democrats, getting Republicans to hold public hearings of the bill is of the utmost importance, as Democrats would be unable to stop the bill if it came to a vote.

Now, in the Senate what you have is you have I believe it is 10 Republicans working behind closed doors to address 1/6th of the American economy, Sanders said on CBS News Face the Nation Sunday.

My understanding is that it will be brought forth just immediately before we have to vote on it, he said. This is completely unacceptable.

House Republicans List Demands for Senate Bill

By Taylor Rogers

Amidst mounting uncertainty surrounding the contents of Senate republicans health care bill, a group of House republicans have taken it upon themselves to ensure that the new bill will include certain provisions from House version of the legislation which passed in March.

We write to express our serious concerns regarding recent reports suggesting that the Senates efforts to produce a reconciliation bill repealing the Affordable Care Act are headed in a direction that may jeopardize final passage in the House of Representatives, states a copy of the letter acquired by Independent Journalism Review.

The letter, which was drafted by Republican Study Committee led by Rep. Mark Walker (R-NC), warns Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell that a Senate version of the bill without certain provisions may not pass in the house. The letter demands that the new bill not rewards states for expanding Medicare, provide ways for states to waive certain requirements of the Affordable Care Act, repeal ACA taxes and defund Planned Parenthood for a year.

As the Senate continues its deliberative process, we urge you to carefully evaluate the American Health Care Act and consider the important role these specific policies played in building consensus in the House, the letter states.

Study shows house health care bill would cost 1 million jobs

By Julia Munslow

A new study reveals that the House GOP health care bill would cost Americans nearly 1 million jobs in 10 years.

The Commonwealth Fund and George Washington University researchers found that the American Health Care Act (AHCA), passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in May, would initially boost the economy and increase the number of jobs in the short term, but eventually hinder the economy and reduce the number of jobs in the long run.

The House bill to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act would greatly reduce the number of people with insurance coverage, effectively reversing gains made since the laws enactment, the study says.

The AHCA would repeal taxes and lead to more than 800,000 jobs in 2018, the study reads. But by 2026, those effects would be dramatically reversed as the reductions in support for health care would cripple the initial economic growth. The cuts to Medicaid and federal subsidies would result in the loss of nearly 1 million jobs, a business output worth $148 billion less and gross state products lower by $93 billion.

According to the study, states that expanded Medicaid would face the brunt of the negative economic effects, facing faster and deeper losses. States that would be hit the hardest include New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Only four states  Washington, Utah, Hawaii and Colorado  would see a long-term increase in employment rates, but likely still face eventual decreases.

The health care sector, which has been one of the main areas of job growth in recent years, would suffer the greatest decrease in jobs, losing 24,000 jobs by 2018, and see about 725,000 fewer jobs by 2026, according to the study. Though the health care sector would be most directly affected, the effects would eventually reach other job sectors.

[waiting for comment from lead author]
Brei Theisen and her daughter Ava. (Photo: Facebook/Brei Michelle Theisen)

A woman who was asked to breastfeed discreetly by a manager at a public pool, wants moms in similar situations to know their legal rights.

On Thursday, Brei Theisen, a mother-of-one in Wood River, Ill., visited the Wood River Aquatic Center, a local pool where she swims every week.

When her 14-month-old daughter Ava got hungry, Theisen hopped out of the water to sit on the pools edge and nurse. I breastfeed at this pool all the time with no problem, Theisen, 23, tells Yahoo Beauty, adding that while she doesnt have to use a nursing cover, per Illinois state law which allows women to breastfeed anywhere in public, she always ensures shes not exposed.

After finishing up, Theisen and her baby walked over to the waterslide when she saw a lifeguard pointing in her direction. Suddenly the manger approaches me and says, I need you to be more discreet because youre offending other people and I cant allow that to happen, says Theisen.

I told him, Im not going to cover my daughters head in 90-degree weather  should the people at the food court also cover up? says Theisen.

When Ava started fussing again, Theisen decided to leave the pool and nurse but first, she asked to speak to another higher-up, who she says pointed her to a dressing area in close proximity to the restroom. He said, You dont have a problem changing your baby in a public bathroom but you have a problem feeding her there?

While a representative from the Wood River Aquatic Center tells Yahoo Beauty that the pool has nothing to apologize for, going forward, the staff will be trained in breastfeeding laws. However, the pool acknowledged its error in a statement to Fox2Now, a St. Louis local news station, which read:

Our manager and staff have been fully briefed on the law and will incorporate the law into our training for all employees immediately. We apologize to the mother and child or any inconvenience we may have caused them.

Theisen doesnt plan on returning to the Wood River Aquatic Center but she wants other mothers to educate themselves on their rights. After I had Ava, a friend told me, Make sure you know the law about nursing in public, she says. So I want other people to know too.

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It's probably not being too unfair to say Honda is widely seen as something of a conservative auto brand, but it's also one that's definitely been looking to expand its appeal beyond its traditional customer base recently. That plan to connect with a broader, more youthful audience looks as though it might just be being ramped up a notch now. That's because the Japanese automaker has revealed a simply stunning concept sketch of its all-new tenth-generation Accord, which is set to be properly unveiled in all its full glory in Detroit on July 14.

This all-new tenth-generation 2018 Accord is being billed by Honda as, "the most fun-to-drive, premium and dramatically styled Accord ever." And although we'll have to take the manufacturer's word about the fun-to-drive and premium parts of that statement for the moment, the illustration it's just released is understating the "dramatically styled" bit if the car looks like that when it's finally unveiled.

The sketch looks more like something dreamed up by an enthusiasts' publication or website, or a one-off model we might see on a stand at the SEMA custom show in Las Vegas in November.

Although the Accord has been dropped by Honda completely in some markets such as the UK due to disappointing sales results, it's still an incredibly important model to the brand and its ongoing success. In fact, in Honda's biggest market, the US, the Accord is currently the best-selling retail midsize sedan, and has been now for some four straight years. To the end of May this year, based on retail sales to individual buyers, the current Accord is still America's top-selling midsize sedan and the second best-selling passenger car of any type. And being second best overall is no problem for Honda as the Accord is only being beaten into second place by the latest Civic. To give an idea of how America sees the Accord, this car is also an unprecedented 31-time winner of Car and Driver magazine's coveted 10Best award.

We've already been told there will be three powerful and fuel-efficient powertrains, including a pair of new direct-injected and turbocharged engines with a range of ten-speed automatic, CVT or a six-speed manual transmissions depending upon engine. If the new model closely resembles this image, it's easy to see buyers demanding that it goes on sale again in those markets where the Accord has been discontinued.
Tehran (AFP) - Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.

It was the first missile attack by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

It came hours after supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a statement on his website, vowed Iran would "slap its enemies" in honour of the victims' families, including those killed in Syria and Iraq.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called "terror bases".

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were "in retaliation" for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS.

"Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed," the statement said.

It said the attack targeted "a command base.... of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor", Syria's oil-rich eastern province.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, had also vowed to avenge the attacks.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was "promoting terrorist groups" in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of "volunteer" fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syria's conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
Mosul (Iraq) (AFP) - Iraqi forces pushed deeper into Mosul's Old City on Monday after launching a final assault on the Islamic State group, warning civilians to stay inside and telling jihadists to "surrender or die".

Iraqi forces launched the operation Sunday to retake the district, the last part of Iraq's second city still held by IS after a months-long offensive.

Commanders say the jihadists are putting up fierce resistance and there are fears for more than 100,000 civilians believed to be trapped in the maze of narrow streets.

Staff Major General Maan al-Saadi, a top commander in Iraq's elite Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS), told AFP that heavy fighting had resumed at dawn on Monday.

"We pushed deeper into the Old City and took control of new areas in the Faruq neighbourhood," he said.

The various Iraqi forces pushing into the Old City made modest gains, as IS fighters rained mortar fire on their positions and offered stiff resistance.

"Penetrating was very difficult. Today the fighting is face to face," Saadi said.

The push into Mosul's historic heart on the west bank of the Tigris River marks the culmination of a campaign launched in October by Iraqi forces to retake IS's last major urban stronghold in the country.

The US-led coalition battling IS in Iraq and neighbouring Syria has backed the offensive, including with months of air strikes.

The loss of Mosul would mark the effective end of the Iraqi portion of the cross-border "caliphate" that IS declared in summer 2014 after seizing swathes of Iraq and Syria.

- IEDs on toy cars -

Sheltering from relentless fire and explosions near a sniper position on the edge of the Old City, CTS captain Ahmed Jassem described a bitter fight.

"We can't bring our vehicles into these narrow streets. It means they can't use as many car bombs either, but they use motorcycle bombs and even IEDs mounted on remote-controlled toy cars," he said.

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Iraqi forces stationed Humvees by the Grand Mosque on the retaken east side of Mosul, facing the Old City and mounted with speakers.

The loudspeakers blared messages to IS fighters, telling them: "You have only this choice: surrender or die".

Late on Sunday, Iraqi forces dropped nearly 500,000 leaflets over the city, warning that they had "started attacking from all directions".

The leaflets urge civilians to "stay away from open places and... exploit any opportunity that arises during the fighting" to escape.

The United Nations has said IS may be holding more than 100,000 civilians as human shields in the Old City.

On Monday, the French national broadcaster France Televisions and Reporters Without Borders said three French journalists were wounded in a landmine blast in Mosul and their Iraqi fixer Bakhtiyar Addad killed.

On Tuesday, the broadcaster announced that one of the reporters, Stephan Villeneuve, had died from his injuries.

He had been preparing a documentary on the battle for Mosul for public channel France 2.

Only a few hundred yards (metres) from the heaviest fighting, small groups of civilians gathered.

"We moved to a camp in Hammam al-Alil when the neighbourhood was liberated, but homes were being looted so we came back to protect our property," said Nabil Hamed Khattab, a 56-year old who did not flinch when a mortar round came crashing down a few blocks away.

Commanders have said the fighting is expected to be very difficult and could last weeks.

Surrounded by Iraqi forces on three sides and blocked on the other by the Tigris that runs through Mosul, the jihadists are cornered.

Iraqi forces launched a vast operation to retake Mosul eight months ago, seizing the city's eastern side in January and starting an assault on its western part the following month.

Aid groups have raised concerns that already-traumatised civilians risk getting caught up in fierce street fighting.

It is not clear how many civilians have been killed in the operation, but aid workers are warning that casualties will be high.

"We're seeing dozens of new patients a day, including children and the elderly. For a heartbreakingly high number, it was simply too late; they died soon after reaching us," said Julia Schuerch, an ICRC emergency room specialist deployed in west Mosul.

"Why didn't they come sooner?" she said. "Residents are being forced to make impossible life and death choices as they seek to flee the violence."

Since the start of the battle to retake Mosul, an estimated 862,000 people have been displaced. Around 195,000 have since returned, mainly to the city's east.

It was from the Old City's emblematic Al-Nuri mosque in July 2014 that IS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi made his only public appearance.

He urged Muslims worldwide to move to the group's "caliphate" straddling Iraq and Syria.

The jihadists have since lost most of the territory they once controlled in the face of US-backed offensives in Iraq and in Syria, where a Kurdish-Arab alliance is advancing on the group's last Syrian stronghold Raqa.
Nearly a month after President Donald Trump's maiden trip to the Middle East as the U.S. commander-in-chief, Jared Kushner, Trump's senior adviser, will travel to the region this week to try reach a peace deal between Israel and Palestinian people, a report said Sunday citing a White House official. Kushner will travel along with Jason Greenblatt, an assistant to Trump and special representative for international negotiations.

Trump's son-in-law will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah. According to the White House official, who gave details about the trip on the condition of anonymity, Greenblatt was scheduled to arrive in the Middle East on Monday and Kushner will travel Wednesday, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Kushner's trip to the Middle East also underlines the fact that ongoing expanding Russia investigation led by special counsel Robert Mueller has not affected Kushner's far-reaching policy portfolio. Also the investigation into Kushner's business deals has not stopped Trump from deploying his son-in-law as his representative overseas.

Read: Jared Kushner Becoming The Center Of Russia Investigation

In May, reports surfaced that Kushner was the focus of FBI's Russia investigation. Earlier in June, according to a report by the Washington Post, Mueller was probing Kushner's financial dealings, as a part of an investigation into Russian meddling in 2016 presidential election. Mueller's investigation is in its early stages. His spokesman Peter Carr told the publication the Special Counsels Office has undertaken stringent controls to prohibit unauthorized disclosures and will deal severely with any member who engages in this conduct.

Meanwhile, the White House official also told the Post not to expect much from Kushner's trip. "It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr. Kushner and Mr. Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington D.C., or other locations as they pursue substantive talks," the official said.

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It will be Kushner's second visit to Israel in the last two months. In May, Kushner joined Trump, along with his wife Ivanka, on Trump's first official overseas visit to Israel. Kushner visited sites such as the Western Wall and Jerusalem's Holocaust Museum Yad Vashem along with Trump.

As the news of Kushner's upcoming visit to the Middle East broke, Twitterati criticized him for his inexperience in international affairs.

Kushner's exposure to the Arab world is limited to a few trips to Persian Gulf countries. Although Kushner has ties with Israel that are personal and religious, he is not very popular there. He holds strong views about the state of Israel, however, he has not been outspoken about the issues in the country, except in the editorials in the New York Observer, the newspaper he owned, the New York Times reported.

Read: Jared Kushner To Meet Senate Intelligence Committee Amid FBIs Russia Probe

Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian leader involved in peace talks both with Israelis and internally, said Palestinians were skeptical of Kushner and Trumps team generally, as they saw the duo was close only to the Israeli side.

"We need somebody who is really impartial, the Times quoted Barghouti as saying. He also pointed out that it was unclear whether Kushner has ever visited a Palestinian area. There is no indication he is interested in hearing from the other side," he said.

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Bill Gates, the richest person in the world, may soon lose the top spot in the list of billionaires. Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon.com, is merely $5 billion away from becoming the richest person. And there are signs that as he increases his wealth, Bezos may be ready to step up his philanthropic efforts. His lack of personal giving and Amazon's low profile in the philanthropic world have been criticized over the years.

After Amazon announced it was buying Whole Foods, the surge in Amazon stock added $1.8 billion to his net worth, taking his total net worth to about $84.6 billion, CNN reported. The difference is expected to decrease further as Gates, who stepped away from day-to-day control of Microsoft in 2000 but still owns 2 percent of the company, focuses increasingly on the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Read: Jeff Bezos' Company May Soon Compete With Facebook, WhatsApp

Gates, 61, has pledged to give away at least half of his money during his lifetime. More than 150 people have also signed the pledge  but the list does not include Bezos. (The late Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, who did not sign the pledge, was also widely criticized for his apparent lack of interest in charitable giving.) But a day before Bezos surprised analysts by announcing Amazon would buy Whole Foods, the 51 year old posted on Twitter, asking his followers to give philanthropy ideas.

"Im thinking about a philanthropy strategy that is the opposite of how I mostly spend my time  working on the long term," Bezos wrote. He also said he wanted to find a way to help people "at the intersection of urgent need and lasting impact."

His followers have offered ideas such as helping LGBT youth, easing student loan debt, and helping with the cost of daycare.

Read: What Twitter Thinks Jeff Bezos Should Spend His Money On

Bezos owns nearly 17 percent of Amazon.com. At a shareholders meeting in 2016, he claimed Amazon was the fastest company ever to reach $100 billion in annual sales, reports said.

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According to the latest Forbes list of billionaires, Gates occupies the top spot with a net worth of $89.3 billon followed by Bezos with a net worth of $84.1 billion.

Amancio Ortega , the founder and former chairman of Inditex fashion group, best known for its chain of Zara, occupied the third spot with a net worth of $83.7 billion.

Warren Buffet and Carlos Slim Helu occupy the fourth and the fifth position. Founder and CEO of facebook Mark Zuckerberg was in sixth position. Amazon on Friday announced it would buy the upscale grocery chain Whole Foods for $13.4 billion. The grocery chain has more than 460 stores in the United States, Britain and Canada with the total sale of $16 billion in the last fiscal year, reports said.

The company was founded in 1978 in Austin, Texas. Whole Foods is best known for its organic foods with its focus on healthy eating and fresh, local produce and meats.

Amazon has been a retail giant that's pioneered online services such as 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo and Alexa.

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On Last Week Tonight, John Oliver focused on the coal industry and specifically on Donald Trump-loving CEO of Murray Energy Corporation, Bob Murray, who apparently does not like media scrutiny. Oliver explained, "When we contacted Murray Energy for this piece, they sent us a letter instructing us to "Cease and desist from any effort to defame, harass, or otherwise injure Mr. Murray or Murray energy." It turns out that Murray's threat is probably not idle, with his company having now sued The York Times, a Huffington Post contributor and two papers in Ohio. Oliver went on to explain that "Murray's current general counsel told reporters that [The Akron Beacon Journal] had inflicted a potential economic loss of -- and I am not making this up -- $1 billion, which, when you think about it, is exactly what you'd expect from a geriatric Dr. Evil." Oliver was willing to take the risk, looking at the history of Murray's company which includes unsuccessfully suing to block a rule that helped reduce miners' exposure to coal dust. Oliver joked, if you even appear to be on the same side as black lung, you're on the wrong f***ing side. That's the equivalent of watching My Girl and rooting for the bees. And it turns out Oliver isn't the only person who's not a big fan of Bob Murray. His own employees are fed up with Murray's dealings and his disregard for their safety, voiding and returning bonus checks for as little as $3.22 with "Eat s***, Bob" written on them.
On Last Week Tonight, John Oliver focused on the coal industry and specifically on the Donald Trump-loving CEO of Murray Energy Corporation, Bob Murray, who apparently does not like media scrutiny. Oliver explained, When we contacted Murray Energy for this piece, they sent us a letter instructing us to Cease and desist from any effort to defame, harass, or otherwise injure Mr. Murray or Murray Energy.

It turns out that Murrays threat is probably not idle, with his company having now sued the New York Times, a Huffington Post contributor, and two papers in Ohio. Oliver went on to explain that Murrays current general counsel told reporters that [the Akron Beacon Journal] had inflicted a potential economic loss of  and I am not making this up  $1 billion, which, when you think about it, is exactly what youd expect from a geriatric Dr. Evil.

Oliver was willing to take the risk and looked at the history of Murrays company, which includes unsuccessfully suing to block a rule that helped reduce miners exposure to coal dust.

Oliver joked, if you even appear to be on the same side as black lung, youre on the wrong f***ing side. Thats the equivalent of watching My Girl and rooting for the bees.

And it turns out Oliver isnt the only person whos not a big fan of Bob Murray. Murrays own employees are fed up with his dealings and his disregard for their safety, voiding and returning bonus checks for as little as $3.22 with Eat s***, Bob written on them.

Last Week Tonight airs Sundays at 11 p.m. on HBO.

John Oliver points out the weirdest parts of the James Comey hearing:

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At least one person is dead and many more injured after authorities in London say a van driver deliberately mowed over pedestrians outside a mosque early Monday.

The one known fatality was reportedly a man who'd suffered a heart attack and was being attended to in Finsbury Park in the north of London, officials say.

Watch: 30-Year-Old Woman Dies In Fiance's Arms Following London Bridge Terror Attack

A 48-year-old man was detained at the scene and authorities, including British Prime Minister Theresa May, were quick to condemn the attack as a terrorist act.

May promised to protect the country's mosques while calling the attack an assault on the UK's fundamental freedoms.

"This morning we have seen a sickening attempt to destroy those freedoms, and to break those bonds of citizenship that define our United Kingdom," she said. "It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms, and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible."

Authorities have not named the alleged attacker, who was arrested on suspicion of murder after he was found detained by members of the public at the scene.

One eyewitness described the horrific scene to reporters as "done vindictively."

"Well, I saw a lot of fatalities on the ground, you know. People moaning," the witness said. "I've never heard people scream and moan of that nature. Some wasn't moaning, some was just on the floor, you know, as though they were dead, you know. I never went and basically found out if they were dead or not, you know."

Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals while two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries, according to London's Metropolitan Police.

Due to the nature of this incident, police said they have deployed extra resources in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan.

Watch: New Video of London Terror Attack Shows Terrified Bar Patrons Hiding in Bathroom

In a statement, London Mayor Sadiq Khan said he hopes these steps will "reassure communities" in the midst of observing the holy days of Ramadan.

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"While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect," Khan said.

Watch: London Terror Suspect Once Appeared on Docuseries, 'The Jihadis Next Door'

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London (AFP) - Worshippers leaving a London mosque early Monday were helping an elderly man who had collapsed when a van deliberately rammed them, driven by an attacker who shouted: "I want to kill all Muslims", witnesses said.

Shortly after midnight, the van swerved towards people who had just left prayers at the Finsbury Park Mosque and the Muslim Welfare House in north London and were assisting their stricken fellow worshipper.

The man who collapsed was pronounced dead at the scene and 10 people were injured, with eight taken to hospital.

But the driver, pinned to the ground and facing a mob beating, was saved by the Welfare House imam who ordered infuriated younger men to stand back.

"He just drove at people," witness Abdiqadir Warra told AFP of the attacker. "Some of them he took a few metres.

"The old man was also on the ground, and I see some people were also injured. Some of them were very bad."

Another witness Mohammed Abdullah told Sky News television: "He actually went on top of the people, he actually ran them over. And then all I can just see is people getting hit."

- 'I'm restraining him' -

Locals pounced on the driver and two or three men pinned him down, then others waded in, trying to punch and kick him.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud then stepped in and, according to onlookers, saved the driver's life by ordering angry bystanders to stand away.

"I'm restraining him," one man shouted. "Don't touch him! Don't touch him!", eyewitness video footage showed.

"Look what's happened!" shouted another.

"Calm down," someone says as the driver reels on the ground.

"He had been restrained by about three people. The injured and the deceased brother were being tended to," Mahmoud told reporters.

"We found a group of people quickly started to collect around the assailant. Some tried to hit and punch and kick him.

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"By God's grace we managed to surround him and protect him from any harm."

A police van drove by, and the driver was dragged up to his feet.

When the suspect was being led away into the police van, he seemed dazed and bewildered.

"Why did you do that? What did they do to you?" someone shouted in an angry voice.

There were furious shouts as he was put into the police van, with one man wading in with a kick.

"The driver of the van said, 'I did my bit'," said MWH chief executive Toufik Kacimi.

"He did what he did deliberately to hit and kill as many Muslims as possible."

Khalid Amin told BBC television that when people seized the driver, "he was shouting: 'All Muslims, I want to kill all Muslims'."

Witness Abdul Rahman, who told the BBC he struck the driver and helped subdue him, also claimed the man had said he wanted to "kill all Muslims".

Police confirmed that a 47-year-old man had now been arrested on terror grounds.

- 'People were screaming' -

Meanwhile one man was thought to be trapped under the suspect's van and a dozen or so men tried to lift it up.

A video clip taken by a female witness and seen by AFP shows the white rental van and one man laying on the side of the road with his head propped up. A man said the wounded victim was pulled from under the van.

Another clip shows a man administering heart massage to a man on the ground, another person lying face down on the street, and a third sitting up with fellow worshippers holding what looked like a towel or a top to his head, with many worried-looking people close by.

Zahra Musa, 43, who filmed the second clip, told AFP that people were leaving the mosque for a food break when the incident happened.

Another witness, who gave his name as Athman, told AFP: "People were screaming: 'It's a terrorist attack, it's an attack, this guy attacked us', and I had to run back and tried to save people who were still alive and giving water, helping the police.

"While he was in the police van he was waving for victory, he was very happy."
Tokyo (AFP) - Japan's latest super-deluxe train left the station Saturday with a select group of passengers who paid thousands of dollars for a leisurely trip harking back to an era of Art Deco opulence and a slower pace of life.

The Twilight Express Mizukaze departed Osaka on its maiden trip with around 30 well-heeled passengers on a journey to the far reaches of Japan's main island.

A couple staying in the 10-car train's top room, The Suite, paid out a combined 2.4 million yen ($22,000) for a two-night, three-day return trip that rolls past emerald green rice paddies, craggy coastlines and ancient shrines.

That eye-popping price tag gets you five-star hotel luxury including a marble-floored bathroom with claw-legged tub in the priciest suite, food prepared by gourmet chefs, and sumptuous lounges where you can sip cocktails as you take in the dramatic scenery through huge viewing windows.

"I'm so delighted to get a spot on this historic train," Ayaka Kobayashi, a newlywed who was travelling on the Mizukaze with her husband, told Jiji Press news agency.

"I want to enjoy this special time and space."

The Mizukaze, which means "fresh wind" in Japanese, is just the latest luxury offering in train-mad Japan, which has an extensive railway network covering most of the country.

These top-end rolling hotels pay homage to once numerous sleeper cars that were overtaken by Shinkansen bullet trains that cut hours off travel times.

"Things have been reset, giving birth to a new breed" of trains, said photojournalist and train expert Kageri Kurihara after touring The Mizukaze.

"Train companies are trying to show what they can do without constraints. You may have this idea that sleeper trains are cramped and inconvenient but these railways are saying 'look what we can offer!'.

"Japanese people are very fond of trains and you'd be excited with all these superb choices," he added.

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- Gourmet grub, cypress tubs -

Last month, the Shiki-Shima left Tokyo's Ueno Station with passengers treated to meals whipped up by gourmet chefs.

A four-day journey in several rooms that boast a cypress wood tub cost a cool 950,000 yen per person.

Well-heeled passengers even got piano playing and a fireplace -- actually a trick created by steam and coloured light -- on the trip that took them from Japan's capital to the northernmost island of Hokkaido and back again.

It cost the Shiki-Shima's operator 10 billion yen to refurbish it and build special lounges at regular stops, among other expenses. The train is booked out through to March next year.

In 2013, Kyushu Railway unveiled its "Seven Stars" service with a piano and a bar, top-end dining and luxury suites.

Japan's train operators have some offerings a notch down too, including a carriage with a foot-soaker bath.

As Tokyo gets set to host the 2020 Olympics, the record numbers of tourists visiting Japan could be another lucrative market for luxury train operators.

"This trend comes when more and more travellers from abroad are visiting Japan so the timing is good," Kurihara said.

And while the economy may not be as booming as it once was, there are still many Japanese willing to pay for a local version of the Orient Express.

Passengers on the Mizukaze and Shiki-Shima had to put their names into a lottery and hope they got picked.

"(Luxury train travel) is not feeling the impact of deflation or a weak economy -- and there are rich people out there," Kurihara said.

"Money aside, I'd love to travel on it just once in my life."
UPDATE: 6:25 p.m. EST  More than two dozen hotel guests have been rescued so far from the hotel. The Independent put the number at 32 while CNN reported 30.

In recent months, Mali has struggled against an increase in fighting Islamic militants in the northern region of the country. Many of these attacks have focused on areas that are populated by foreigners and Westerners. In late 2015, militants attacked a Radisson hotel outside of the capital city of Bamako, leaving more than 20 dead.

Earlier this month, three United Nations peacekeepers from Guinea were killed when jihadists launched an attack on a United Nations camp in the northern region of Mali. A local al Qaida affiliate in Mali claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, a spokesman for U.N. Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric condemned the attack and said it "may constitute war crimes under international law."

UPDATE: 4:54 p.m. EST  Reuters reported that two casualties. One was described as a French-Gabonese individual, while details on the second have yet to be confirmed.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Embassy in Mali warned about the increased potential for threats against major public spaces and discouraged travel to the country.

"The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent," the U.S. Embassy said. "Avoid vulnerable locations with poor security measures in place, including hotels, restaurants, and churches."

Original story:

A luxury hotel near Mali's capital of Bamako was targeted Sunday by suspected jihadists, the Associated Press reported.

Le Campement Hotel, which is popular among both tourists and locals, was attacked by gunmen. The Associated Press reported hostages were taken in the hotel. Officials have reported casualties, but it is not immediately clear how many were killed or injured in the ongoing attack.

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"Security forces are in place. Campement Kangaba is blocked off and an operation is underway," Security Ministry spokesman Baba Cisse told Reuters. "The situation is under control."

US citizens in #Mali, avoid the area of Hotel Kangaba. Ongoing attack pic.twitter.com/8MOKt9T7WO  Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) June 18, 2017

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

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President Donald Trump is dealing with ongoing investigations into his administrations alleged ties to Russia and the possibility of obstruction of justice. Trumps beleaguered communications staff has had trouble keeping up with the bad publicity and is now getting outside help, Mark Corallo. The longtime communications strategist is helping the administration mold its message by becoming the spokesperson for Trumps personal lawyer, Marc Kasowitz.

Politico reported Sunday the Trump administration had considered bringing Corallo in as White House communications director last month, but he didnt take the job. The White House has been without someone in the role since former director Michael Dubke resigned in May.

READ: Who Is Marc Kasowitz? Trump Defended By Personal Lawyer Following Comey Hearing

I think I will be more help to the president on the outside than I would have been on the inside, Corallo told Politico. The order of magnitude is a little bigger than some of the other high-profile matters Ive been involved in, but the president will be cleared because he did nothing wrong. Dont underestimate this guy.

Earlier in the month, Trump considered building a war room in the White House to deal with accusations his 2016 presidential campaign had ties to Russia. The operation was going to be headed up by former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, Reuters reported earlier this month, but that plan was scrapped.

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Photo: Zach Bibson/GETTY

Instead, the White House is using outside counsel, Kasowitz, and Corallo as a parallel force to the White Houses official counsel Don McGahn and the leaderless communications staff.

Corallo has a long history of working as a communications strategist and Republican operative. The first line of his bio on his firms website comes from the National Journal calling him a street-smart Republican spin doctor.

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From 1996 to 1999, he served as press secretary to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Bob Livingston. Corallo also worked as the communications director for the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and spokesman for the Department of Justice under Attorney General John Ashcroft.

Corallo has been in the private sector since starting his own firm, Corallo Media Strategies. Politico said one of Corallos biggest clients was former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove, whom he represented during the CIA leak scandal, which unveiled the identity covert operative Valerie Plame. Corallo represented I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, former chief of staff to then-Vice President Dick Cheney. Libby was found guilty of obstruction of justice and lying to federal investigators and was sentenced to jail.

READ: What Is Obstruction Of Justice? Robert Mueller Investigating President For Alleged Russia Ties

Corallo's Twitter profile describes him as a huge Yankees fan. He graduated from Georgetown University and is married with four children.

Corallo is a military veteran who was in the U.S. Army infantry.

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With the runoff election in Georgias sixth district fast approaching, all eyes remained on young Democrat Jon Ossoff. Amid a neck-and-neck campaign against Republican Karen Handel, the 30-year-old political newcomer also recently asked his girlfriend to marry him.

Ossoff proposed to his longtime girlfriend Alisha Kramer in early May. The two had been dating for 12 years after attending Georgetown University together. Kramer, 27, is currently a student at Emory University School of Medicine studying obstetrics and gynecology and is set to graduate in 2018.

Read: Who Is Jon Ossoff? Georgia Representative Candidate Faces Smear Ads

The location of Kramers school means Ossoff doesnt actually live within the district in which hes running. Ossoff told CNN in a May interview they chose to live within walking distance of Emory so that Kramer would have an easier commute, but they planned to move into the district once she graduated.

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Photo: Getty Images

Im a mile and a half down the street to support Alisha while she finishes medical school, the candidate told CNN. Its something Ive been very transparent about. In fact, Im proud to be supporting her career. As soon as she finishes her medical training, Ill be 10 minutes back up the road into the district where I grew up.

While Kramer and Ossoff began dating at Georgetown, the pair had actually known each other long before college. They both attended Paideia School, a pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade school, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. At Georgetown, Kramer received her degree in biology of global health and studied abroad in Denmark. She also later organized and participated in research trips to Botswana, Switzerland, South Africa, Zambia and Ethiopia as part of her work for the Center for Strategic and International Studies Global Health Policy Center.

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Ossoffs opponent Karen Handel congratulated the two on their engagement after it was announced in early May, noting that she had been married to her husband Steve for almost 25 years.

Steve and I send our congratulations to the future Mr. and Mrs. Ossoff, she said in the statement. We have learned a lot over nearly 25 years of marriage. Having a partner who is the love of your life ultimately makes the hard days better and the journey more complete. Steve and I wish them the best in their future together.

The outcome of Tuesdays election remained pure speculation in the hours leading up to it. While earlier polls described the race as a dead heat, an Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll released in early June showed Ossoff with a seven percent margin over Handel. And theres been no shortage of money poured into both campaigns. Costing a total of $36 million overall, its been the most expensive United States House race in history, according to New York Magazine.

Read: How Much Money Is Being Spent In Georgias Special Election?

The region has been historically held by Republicans, a challenge for the Democratic newcomer.

Certainly, Im the underdog, Ossoff told the New York Times in March. But in a special election, energy is everything. There are many in this district who are concerned that the president may embarrass us on the world stage, that he may be incompetent and that hes dishonest. I share those concerns, but by running a positive campaign focused on core American values, the contrast is obvious.

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Photo: Getty Images

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President Trump and first lady Melania Trump. (Photo: AP Images)

Melania Trump popped in blue to welcome the Panamanian president and his wife to the White House on Monday.

To attend a meeting on crime and immigration with President Trump, President Juan Carlos Varela, and first lady Lorena Castillo de Varela, Melania wore a $1,696 Michael Kors cornflower-blue fitted dress. It was adorned with buttons along faux pockets and paired with Christian Louboutin floral So Kate pumps  the same pair she wore in April to meet the Chinese president and first lady.

The blue hue was a familiar choice in two ways: because first daughter Ivanka Trump set off to work on Monday wearing a Jason Wu blue sheath dress, and because it was reminiscent of her inaugural outfit.

First ladies Lorena Castillo de Varela, left, and Melania Trump. (Photo: Getty Images)

For her husbands inauguration ceremony in January, Melania wore a Ralph Lauren powder blue cashmere suit composed of a mock turtleneck dress and a cropped jacket. The look generated headlines for evoking the spirit of former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy (save for a pillbox hat) and for the color  as blue is the color unofficially associated with the Democratic Party.

Ironically, Hillary Clinton wore a white Ralph Lauren pantsuit to the inauguration, a detail that did not go unnoticed on social media, with some suggesting that the shared designer symbolized a likeness between the two women.

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump on Inauguration Day in January. (Photo: Getty Images)

And in May, after French first lady Brigitte Macron wore a blue suit by Louis Vuitton that drew comparisons to Melanias inaugural look, executive image consultant Sylvie di Giusto told Yahoo Style of the color, Its associated with intelligence, trust, and security, and the lighter the blue shade becomes, the more sympathetic, personal, warm, and communicative it is perceived.

On Monday, Melanias blue dress stood out next to Castillas emerald-green dress, which she paired with white pumps.

Style aside, the meeting between the two couples wasnt seamless. According to the Washington Post, while posing for photographers, President Trump said, The Panama Canal is doing quite well. I think we did a good job building it, right  a very good job. To that, Varela replied, Yeah, about 100 years ago, in a comment that Twitter perceived as a dig.

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Mosul (Iraq) (AFP) - Mosul's Old City, where Iraqi forces are closing in on the Islamic State group's final urban refuge in Iraq, is an ancient maze of narrow alleys.

At its heart lies the emblematic Al-Nuri mosque, where jihadist supremo Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared a caliphate in June 2014 after his forces seized Iraq's second city along with swathes of territory extending into neighbouring Syria.

Baghdadi's cross-border "caliphate" has been shrinking steadily since mid-2015.

The loss of Mosul would leave Raqa, in Syria, as the group's only major urban stronghold.

Perched on the bank of the river Tigris and protected for centuries by 11th century ramparts, medieval Mosul was a key meeting point for merchants from India, Persia and the Mediterranean.

Today, the three-square-kilometre (one-square-mile) district is a maze of alleys lined with stone houses, small shops and the workshops of local carpenters, weavers and metalworkers.

It contains numerous markets, churches and mosques, the most emblematic of which is the Great Mosque of Al-Nuri.

Baghdadi's only known public appearance there heralded the most ambitious and brutal experiment in modern jihad, a period marked by mass murder, slavery and attempts to commit genocide.

The mosque takes its name from Nureddin al-Zinki, who ordered it built in 1172 after unifying Syria and parts of northern Iraq.

A predecessor to Saladin, Zinki was a Muslim hero in what he labelled a jihad (holy war) against the crusaders.

Present-day jihadists often borrow his rhetoric, referring to western forces as "crusaders". One influential rebel group in Syria has even named itself after him.

- Emblem in peril -

His mosque in Mosul was largely dismantled and rebuilt last century as part of a renovation project, but its iconic leaning minaret, which locals dub the "hunchback", survived.

Decorated with geometric brick patterns, it is an emblem not just of Mosul but of Iraq and appears on the 10,000 dinar bill.

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After seizing Mosul, IS fighters hung their black flag from the top of the 45-metre (150-foot) tower.

While the jihadists destroyed priceless historical sites in other parts of their "caliphate", witnesses say the "hunchback" was saved after locals formed a human chain around it to protect it.

Historians and architects fear that fierce fighting in the Old City will imperil its heritage as well as the mosque's fragile minaret.

In 2012, UNESCO warned that the minaret was suffering "serious structural weakness".

"It is feared that the leaning minaret, that has brought fame to the city of Mosul, may soon collapse if measures to save it are not taken," it said.

A UNESCO-led effort launched in June 2014 to stabilise the structure was interrupted just days later as IS seized control of Mosul in a lightning assault.

In a "desperate plea" published in March, Iraqi architect Ihsan Fethi called for the Old City to be spared.

It contains "monuments and houses of historical and architectural value that are among the most remarkable in Iraq and the region," he said.

He urged Iraqi and international coalition forces not to resort to "any sort of indiscriminate artillery, bombing... or any similar heavy weaponry" in the battle for the Old City.

"We have already seen that in (Syria's) Aleppo and elsewhere," Fethi said.

"If the city is liberated at the price of destroying Old Mosul, it will be a hollow 'victory.'"
From Woman's Day

Before my mom, Lina Norma Sebastiani, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2013 at age 68, I thought of her as the ultimate caregiver. When my sister Anna and I were kids, mom worked as a nanny and was an amazing seamstress. She could turn a pair of pants into a skirt and make beautiful drapery out of ordinary sheets. All the neighbors would bring their prom dresses and wedding dresses to her for alterations. She used to cook delicious soups and lasagna. My dad died 25 years ago and her life hasn't been easy since then, but she has always been a hard worker. When my sister and I became moms, she helped us take care of our girls, picking them up from the bus stop or babysitting.

Then one day in 2011, Mom called my sister and told her she couldn't remember how to turn on the car. That was the beginning of the signs of this terrible illness. Her decline has been so fast. She can still walk around and talk, but mentally she really struggles. She doesn't know what day or year it is. She forgets what she's doing in the middle of doing it. She doesn't always recognize us, especially at night. She's always in a state of restlessness. I think she knows that something is wrong-she has some memories, but she can't remember one minute to the next so she's always worried about messing things up. It's torture to watch.

Photo credit: Courtesy Santina Marshall

Since the diagnosis, our roles have flipped-she used to take care of us; now we take care of her. I wake up in the middle of the night wondering if I left the next day's meds in the safe for the morning caregiver. Sometimes when I'm cleaning out mom's fridge I find things that I threw in the garbage the night before. Thankfully, we have some help from some friends, relatives and even great agencies like the Visiting Angels, but each day is a fight. I worry from the moment I get up. Even if I know the Visiting Angels will be there I have to call to make sure they show up, check to make sure mom has her dentures in her mouth before they put out the garbage, and look all around the house for dirty diapers when I go there after work for my "shift." My sister has the same worries and responsibilities.

Sometimes when I'm cleaning out mom's fridge I find things that I threw in the garbage the night before.

My girls are 14 and 11. My sister's daughters are 15, 13, and 11. A lot of kids don't have much interaction with seniors, let alone seniors with Alzheimer's, but our kids all have so much empathy. Still, it's hard for all of us when I'm away from them taking care of my mom. My kids have missed out on a lot of things. Thank God for my sister. When one of us goes on vacation with her family, the other one is here to watch mom.

Photo credit: Courtesy Santina Marshall

I have been keeping a diary the last few years. I often write in the middle of the night when I can't sleep. Recently I wrote, "this won't be forever." The truth is, just when I think I can't do it anymore something happens and I realize that I am stronger and tougher than I ever knew. I can give Mom a bath, take her to appointments, give her meds, and even change her diapers, all because I love her. One day I might even miss these times, as crazy and as hard as they are.

Just when I think I can't do it anymore something happens and I realize that I am stronger than I ever knew.

Caregiving has been the hardest thing I've ever done and new challenges come every day. I take it one day at a time.

I feel sorry for myself sometimes. But I also feel lucky. There are people who haven't had good parents. My mom has been a wonderful mom to me and my sister. She's still so loving and kind. Even though she has Alzheimer's, when you get up to leave, she'll open the fridge and ask if you need anything. She's a shadow of the person she used to be, but she'll always be a caregiver. It's still in her.

Santina Marshall, from Clarkston, Michigan, won the Woman's Day Caregiving Essay contest. She won a year's subscription to the caregiving service Wellthy.

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A 17-year-old Muslim girl was assaulted, abducted and killed as she was travelling home in Virginia on Sunday, after attending her local mosque.

The girl, named locally as Nabra Hassanen of Reston, had been attending the All Dulles Area Muslim Society mosque in observance of the last 10 days of Ramadan when the attack happened in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Nabra was walking home from with several friends when they were confronted by a motorist. At one point the man got out of his car and assaulted the girl, according to police.

The teenagers scattered during the attack but were unable to find Nabra afterwards. She was reported missing to police, sparking an hours-long search by authorities in Fairfax and Loudon counties.

A body was found in a pond in the Sterling area at around 3pm. An autopsy is yet to be conducted by a medical examiner, but police believe the remains are of the missing teenager.

A 22-year-old man named Darwin Martinez Torres was stopped during the police search for driving suspiciously in the area and charged with murder, Fairfax County Police Department said.

Police have not ruled out hate as a motivation for the attack.

Detectives told Nabras mother that the teenager was struck with a metal bat, the Washington Post reported.

I cant think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Fathers Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself, Michael Chapman, Sheriff of Loudoun County said.

Darwin Martinez Torres has been charged with murder (Fairfax County Police Department)

Arsalan Iftikhar, a human rights lawyer, told the newspaper the attack had sent fear through the Muslim community in northern Virginia: People are petrified, especially people who have young Muslim daughters.

A crowd-funding campaign to support the family of Nabra has already raised more than $115,700 (90,300).

The number of anti-Muslim bias incidents in the United States jumped 57 per cent in 2016 to 2,213, up from 1,409 in 2015, the Council on American-Islamic Relations advocacy group said in a report last month.

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While the group had been seeing a rise in anti-Muslim incidents prior to Donald Trump's stunning rise in last year's presidential primaries and November election victory, it said the acceleration in bias incidents was due in part to Mr Trump's focus on militant Islamist groups and anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Muslim worshippers were targeted in a suspected terror attack in London on Sunday night. One man was killed and eight others were injured when a van collided with pedestrians near a mosque in Finsbury Park, north London.

British counter terror police are investigating the incident.

Additional reporting by Reuters
Americas European allies are campaigning to stop President Donald Trump from using national security grounds to slap restrictions on foreign steel imports.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Monday the administration is ready to take bold action to limit imports of steel, even though the Commerce Departments investigation into the supposed national-security risks from relying on imported steel is still ongoing.

Though the administration has touted the action, which could include tariffs or quotas or both, as a move to check Chinas abusive trade practices, NATO allies are concerned that theyll feel the pinch a lot more than Beijing.

According to a report in the Financial Times, German and Dutch military officials have been pressing Defense Secretary James Mattis to make the case that steel imports from NATO members like Germany and Belgium dont pose a threat to American national security. Reports indicate that Mattis has warned the White House against any rash action on steel.

Berlin is reportedly particularly concerned about a steel dispute could further widen the rift between Europe and the United States, already yawning after Washingtons withdrawal from the Paris climate accord and the U.S. Senates efforts to tighten sanctions against European firms that do certain kinds of business with Russia.

Chad Bown, a trade expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, says the Europeans have a point. In a recent study, he found that countries like Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and Germany  not China  are likely to suffer under Trumps new restrictions. Thats because imports of Chinese steel are already covered by existing trade remedies dating back to the turn of the century; almost 10 percent of Chinese goods imported into the United States are subject to some sort of trade restriction, Bown notes, up from 2 percent in 2001.

Photo credit: EMMANUEL DUNAND/Getty Images
A majority of moms and dads have been criticized for their parenting. (Photo: Getty Images)

As any parent knows, its frighteningly easy to sit back and judge another mom or dads style of parenting. Whether its questioning a parents decision to feed their baby formula over breast milk, how parents discipline their kids, or how they handle their toddlers tantrum in the middle of a grocery store, we all have an opinion  and many arent afraid to voice their criticisms, particularly if its aimed at a family member.

So its no surprise that a new study confirms parent-shaming is all too common. Six in 10 mothers of children ages 0 to 5 say they have been criticized about their parenting decisions, according to a June 19 report from the C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital National Poll on Childrens Health at the University of Michigan. The report is based on responses from a national sample of 475 mothers with at least one child between ages 0 to 5.

The study authors found that discipline is the most common topic of criticism, followed by nutrition and sleep.

The research revealed that half of criticized mothers say they avoid people who are too critical, but that can be tricky when its a family member who is judging you. In fact, a clear majority of shamers  61 percent  are family members. A parents own mother or father was most likely to criticize a parenting decision (37 percent), followed closely by the childs other parent (36 percent) and by in-laws (31 percent).

So why do we shame each other? In some cases, things like breastfeeding versus bottle feeding, some of that [shaming stems from] people feeling a tiny bit ambivalent about their own choices, Sarah Clark, co-director of the study and associate research scientist in the department of pediatrics at the University of Michigan, tells Yahoo Beauty. And when youve struggled with something and decided that the best thing is X and you see someone choosing something else, it calls into question your choice a tiny bit  and therefore, they must be wrong. But there are very few things that are right or wrong. Putting your child in a car seat is right, but what daycare they go to or how you feel about breastfeeding is just a choice.

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However, not all criticism is negative. In some cases, it can motivate a parent to seek out more information, which can be helpful  if not lifesaving  if, say, a mom or dad is being criticized for a car seat harness that doesnt properly secure the child (a hot-button topic, if ever there was one). The study found that 60 percent of parents who were shamed about a specific topic searched for more information on it, while 53 percent reached out to a health care provider to get his or her opinion on the subject. As a result, nearly 40 percent of the moms surveyed said they made a change in how they parent.

But sometimes moms have more current information about childcare than, say, older family members issuing a critique  such as not using bumpers in cribs anymore because of the potential risk of suffocation  and seeking out information can actually confirm that the parents decision was the right one. In fact, the study found that the majority of moms  67 percent  say that criticism made them feel more strongly about their parenting choices. In other situations, the research might validate a mothers parenting choice or provide ammunition with which to refute criticism, noted the study authors. Family members should be willing to acknowledge that mothers of young children may have more up-to-date information about child health and safety, and what we used to do may not be the best advice for today.

While a family member may be coming from a place of caring, if they come off as criticizing or are actually shaming you that can damage a parents confidence. We found that 42 percent of parents  4 out of 10  who have been criticized have felt unsure of themselves as parents, says Clark. Occasional uncertainly is fine, but too much of it can feed into a negative reinforcing loop. We want to have a nice consistent approach with our kids. If you feel youre constantly being bombarded with critical messages, you might be less consistent in your parenting choices. Now your kids are getting less consistent messages from you, which can trigger some behavioral issues.

Unless a child is actually in danger, Clark says that the best approach is one of sympathy and support. People who come in with a Weve been there and it really turns out OK attitude  that is such a powerful message to send to a mom who is sitting there with a kid having a meltdown, says Clark. Or saying something with humor, such as Thats not even the worse one Ive seen with a smile. Its saying youre in a community of moms  dont worry about it.

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Otto Warmbier, the American student who had been detained in North Korea, has died his family has said.

Mr Warmbier was transferred back to the United States after over a year in North Korean captivity. He had been sentenced to 15 years hard labour after he was caught trying to take a propaganda banner from North Korea for someone back home in exchange for a used car and to impress a semi-secret society he wanted to join. He was transferred back to the US in a coma, but had showed signs of severe neurological decline.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m," the Warmbier family said in a statement.

"It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost  future time that wont be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person", they wrote.

Mr Warmbier's parents, Fred and Cindy, said in a statement after his release that they had been told their son had been in a coma since March 2016, and that they had only learned that he was in that state weeks ago.

Mr Warmbier has been described as a bright and promising young man with an intense curiosity about the world. He was 21 when he was taken prisoner by the North Koreans. He was a college student who, if he was not taken prisoner and life had gone to plan, would currently be in his first month as a new graduate of the University of Virginia.

The young man from outside of Cincinnati planned on studying abroad during his third year of college in China, which is how he ended up taking a trip to North Korea. While researching his studies in China, Mr Warmbier found out about Chinese companies that offer trips to North Korea. His parents were okay with his decision to go.

Mr Warmbier's trial was broadcast on international news channels. In the trail, Mr Warmbier pleaded with North Korean officials to have pity on him. At first he was calm, and then he choked up, fell to tears, and pleaded desperately for help.

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"I've made the worst mistake of my life!" he said.

He was still sent to prison, on charges of "perpetrating a hostile act against" the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It remains unclear if his admission of guilt was forced, and whether he actually tried to remove the propaganda banner during his trip.

The US government warns against travel to North Korea, but stops short of outright banning it. The country is clearly labelled as a dangerous place for Americans, even though almost every traveller to the country returns unscathed. The volatile nature of the country however, means that quite a few have been detained for shorter periods of time for seemingly small infractions.

There are three Americans who remain in North Korean custody.
Donald Trump has expressed his condolences to the family of Otto Warmbier

Donald Trump has attacked the "brutality of the North Korean regime" following the death of American student Otto Warmbier - who had been imprisoned in the country for 17 months.

The US President has offered the family of Mr Warmbier his respects after news broke that the young man had died after being transported back to the United States from North Korea.

Melania and I offer our deepest condolences to the family of Otto Warmbier on his untimely passing, Mr Trump said in a statement. There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ottos family and friends, and all who loved him.

The President proceeded to say that Mr Warmbiers untimely death recommitted his administration to make sure that another tragedy like the one that surrounded Mr Warmbier would not happen again.

The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim, he said.

Mr Warmbier was imprisoned in a North Korean jail last year, eventually sentenced to 15 years of hard labour for allegedly attempting to steal a North Korean propaganda banner. He was handed over to US officials and flown back to America last week having been in a coma shortly after his March 2016 jailing.

The 22-year-old has been described as a bright, enthusiastic, and adventurous young man. The University of Virginia student was planning on spending his third year of college in China, which is how he found out about the Chinese tour companies that bring Americans on trips to see North Korea. His parents had thought the idea was okay at the time.

North Korean officials have indicated that he went into the coma after getting botulism, and taking a sleeping pill. The family has indicated that they doubt the veracity of that claim. Doctors who examined Mr Warmbier after his release said there was no sign of botulism in his system.

Physicians said last Thursday that Mr Warmbier had shown no sign of understanding language or of awareness of his surroundings, and had made no purposeful movements or behaviors.

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The circumstances of his detention in North Korea, and what medical treatment he received there, remained a mystery. But relatives have said his condition suggests he was physically abused by his captors.

Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today, the family said in a statement following Mr Warmbier's death.

The University of Virginia student's father, Fred Warmbier, said last week that his son had been brutalised and terrorised by the Pyongyang government

Mr Warmbier was freed after the US State Department's special envoy on North Korea, Joseph Yun, traveled to Pyongyang and demanded the student's release on humanitarian grounds, capping a flurry of secret diplomatic contacts, a U.S. official said last week.

Tensions between the United States and North Korea have been heightened by dozens of North Korean missile launches and two nuclear bomb tests since the beginning of last year. Pyongyang has also vowed to develop a nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile capable of hitting the US mainland.

Susan Thornton, the US acting assistant secretary of state for East Asia, said earlier on Monday that the United States was concerned for the welfare of the three other US citizens still held in North Korea - Korean-Americans Tony Kim, Kim Dong Chul and Kim Hak Song.

Responding to the death of Mr Warmbier, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said: We hold North Korea accountable for Otto Warmbiers unjust imprisonment, and demand the release of three other Americans who have been illegally detained.

Agencies contributed to this report
Los Angeles (AFP) - Fifteen years after her horrific gang rape by a local clan in her village in Pakistan, Mukhtar Mai is reliving her ordeal -- and courageousness -- through a US opera inspired by her story.

"I was very emotional when I first started watching it and began reliving the incident in my mind," Mai, 37, told AFP on Friday, after attending the Los Angeles premiere of "Thumbprint."

"But then as the opera progressed, it became easier to watch and I felt more courage," she said in Urdu, speaking through a translator.

The opera, by composer Kamala Sankaram and librettist Susan Yankowitz, recounts Mai's 2002 rape and her decision to defy her attackers and take them to court -- an unusual move in male-dominated Pakistan, where a woman who suffers such a crime often commits suicide rather than endure the stigma and shame associated with it.

"Thumbprint" first opened in New York in 2014 but Mai had never seen the opera. She traveled this week from her home in the remote Pakistani village of Meerwala to attend the West Coast premiere.

While the story onstage ends when Mai's rapists have been sentenced to death, in reality her attackers walk free -- seemingly going about their daily life with total impunity after their sentences were overturned on appeal.

The men had raped Mai -- with the approval of the village council -- as a punishment after her 12-year-old brother was falsely accused of having an illicit relationship with a woman from the dominant clan in the village.

"My rapists live across from my house and I try not to cross paths with them," said Mai, who used compensation money from her case to start several schools and a women's shelter in her village. "When I walk past, they taunt me and make catcalls."

In an added strange twist to her story, the children of her rapists attend her school, and the daughters of some of the village elders who ordered her rape have sought refuge at her shelter.

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"Even though some members of my own family were outraged, I told them I could not turn away the kids as the school is here to serve everyone in the community," she said.

Mai, who married in 2009 and has three children, acknowledged that her story had empowered women in her village and beyond, giving them courage to stand for their rights.

But she said she held little hope that the legal system in her country would ever render her justice.

"All four of the men who raped me and the two village elders who ordered the rape are free," she said. "And they will only learn that what they did is a crime if they are punished."

- Daily threats -

She said she had grown tired of being the woman everyone points to because of her ordeal, in contrast to her rapists who are unconcerned and will likely never pay for their crime.

"I am the one who is always interviewed and put forward in this case," she sighed. "Why doesn't anyone confront them, why doesn't anyone point them out in the street and say, 'These are the people who committed horrific acts against Mukhtar Mai?'"

She said she receives threatening messages daily on her telephone, Facebook page or in person and is now afraid for the safety of her children.

"I have reported nearly 35 such threatening calls and incidents and only one person was arrested, but even he was let out on bail," she said. "I want to make it known that if anything happens to me or my children and family members, the Pakistani government is responsible."

As for the opera inspired by her story, she doubts it could ever be shown in Pakistan, where it would certainly hit a nerve.

But, she said, "I would like it to be shown everywhere."

"And I would like for the people who committed this crime to be identified and come face to face with what they did."
Police harassment and violence, and the ways the system facilitate and enable it, are not exceptional to the US. They are part of what makes the US what it is

While tragic, these deaths seem normative in my understanding of American history at large and within my own family. Photograph: Richard Tsong-Taatarii/AP

Fathers Day weekend was a grim occasion to remind black parents that they are continuously hunted down by police in the United States. The weekend was bracketed by two stories of black adults killed by police in front of young, black children.

Before our timelines began to be filled with pictures of smiling dads over the weekend, black folks across the nation were accosted by news that Minnesota police officer Jeronimo Yanez was acquitted in the shooting death of Philando Castile. Castile, who had been stopped at least 46 times by police in his short 32 years on this Earth, was shot in front his girlfriend and her four-year-old daughter  the entire tragedy being streamed on Facebook Live.

In an impassioned and furious speech after the shooter was acquitted, Valerie Castile, Philandos mother, yelled: This city killed my son, and the murderer gets away, asking: Whats it going to take?



And not 48 hours later, news began to come out that an equally cruel police killing had happened: Charleena Lyles called Seattle police because of an attempted burglary. According to the police, they found her wielding a knife and shot her dead. Outrageously, Seattle police said: There were several children inside the apartment at the time of the shooting, but they were not injured. Those children  who family say were ages 11, four and one  were not injured, except for the small matter that they watched police kill their mother.

The particulars of how the police justified the killing of Philando Castile and Charleena Lyles are not important. Like Lyles, Castile was killed for a reason his mother summed up a while ago: he was black in the wrong time and place.

Lyles may have had a knife, but thats not a capital offense. Her family says she had mental health problems, which makes people especially vulnerable to police killings. Castile had a gun, which he had a permit to carry and tried to tell the police about before they killed him.

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This gun-soaked country is eager for everyone to have guns except for black people  and the system has acquitted the shooters of Tamir Rice (who was playing with a toy gun), John Crawford (who was shopping for a toy gun) and Mike Brown (who did not have a gun at all) alike.

Sandra Blands death began when she allegedly didnt use a turn signal. Trayvon Martin was going to the store for Skittles. Yet in the deaths of all of these black people, no one was found to be culpable  except the deceased themselves.

Over Fathers Day weekend, I found myself wishing I could muster feeling surprised about any of these acquittals, and I felt ashamed I didnt have the sense of acute outrage these families deserve. But I know that this is how the system works and therefore cant be surprised.

Ive been thinking about how the writers Joy James and Joao Costa Vargas ask: What happens when instead of becoming enraged and shocked every time a black person is killed in the United States, we recognize black death as a predictable and constitutive aspect of this democracy? What will happen then if instead of demanding justice we recognize (or at least consider) that the very notion of justice in the US produces and requires black exclusion and death as normative?

While tragic, these deaths seem normative in my understanding of American history at large and within my own family. Fathers Day weekend made me think of my own late father, of course, who died when I was 25. And whenever I think of my dad, in addition to the love and drama and laughs we shared in our too few years together, I think about the toll racism had on him  particularly regarding how police hunted him.

Police harassed him when he first met his future wife, and when he drove to night school to get his college degree, and at least one time when I was a kid. The cops stopped him just to mess with his head.

Police harassment and violence, and the ways the system facilitate and enable it, are not exceptional to the US. They are part of what makes the US what it is.

We are being hunted, Valerie Castile said before the acquittal even came out. And so it makes sense that there was no redress for her son from a justice system that works hand in hand with the police who do the hunting.

Such a system saw fit not to hold accountable a police officer who killed Philando Castile in front of his girlfriends four-year-old, on Fathers Day weekend. And its unlikely this system will find the killers of a mom in front of her three children guilty of anything, either.


Paris (AFP) - Highly exposed to global warming's climate-altering impacts, Portugal is likely to see more massive forest fires such as the one -- still raging -- that has killed at least 60 people this weekend, experts say.

- Why Portugal, why now? -

The Iberian peninsula encompassing Portugal and Spain is experiencing a warmer, drier June than usual, explains Thomas Curt, a researcher at France's Irstea climate and agriculture research institute.

Added to that, the country has vast expanses of highly inflammable plants, including forests of pine and eucalyptus trees.

"Hotter air is synonymous with drier and more inflammable vegetation," said Curt. "The more the mercury climbs, so does the risk of fires and their intensity."

Temperatures in the region have warmed by more than the global average over the past half century, according to a 2014 review of climate change impacts on Portugal.

Heat waves have become more frequent, and annual rainfall slightly less, said the review published in the journal WIREs Climate Change.

More frequent and pronounced heat waves are expected in future, accompanied by a "substantial increase" in fire risk -- "both in severity and in length of the fire season," it said.

- Does global warming boost forest fire risk? -

"It is certain -- we are experiencing a rise in temperatures," said Curt.

The Northern hemisphere summer has lengthened over the past 50 years from July-to-August, to June-to-October now -- meaning a longer fire risk season.

There has been an increase in major fires of more than 100 hectares, and so-called "megafires" of more than 1,000 hectares, the researcher added.

"It is truly a growing problem everywhere in the world, and notably in Mediterranean Europe."

These mega blazes remain rare -- only about 2-3 percent of all fires -- but are responsible for about three-quarters of all surface burnt.

"Many analyses of climate change show that these major fires will become more and more likely," said Curt.

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- What to do? -

In the short term, reinforce firefighting capacity, deploy patrols, set up watchtowers to raise the alarm, and ban fire-making everywhere.

Over the longer term, human settlements and green areas will need to be substantially redesigned, experts say.

Some forest will have to be cut back, undergrowth cleared, and residential areas moved further from scrubland and forest borders, to reduce the risk to life and property.

"The focus of efforts should shift from combating forest fires as they arise to preventing them from existing, through responsible long-term forest management," green group WWF said.

"Responsible forest management is more effective and financially more efficient than financing the giant firefighting mechanisms that are employed every year."

In the yet longer term, added Curt, "of course, we need to curtail global warming itself."
Preet Bharara, the high-profile U.S. attorney unceremoniously fired by President Trump, has embraced the commander in chiefs favorite communications platform: Twitter.

Bharara created a personal Twitter account shortly before being ousted in March, but he told Yahoo News last week that the timing was a coincidence.

I do not have a firing crystal ball, he said, citing a departmental rules change about personal social media accounts.

Since then, he has accumulated nearly 300,000 followers through a mix of patriotic musings, legal commentary and a heavy dose of caustic wit.

I think some conduct deserves to be satirized and ridiculed, Bharara said.

Indeed, hes mused about being drunk enough to retweet Fox News personality Geraldo Riveras commentary after Trump did precisely that.

If I drank each time a knee-jerk partisan called me "disgruntled" in a tweet today, would I be drunk enough to RT Geraldo Rivera? Prolly not https://t.co/y6CKNTMAnw  Preet Bharara (@PreetBharara) June 12, 2017

 and wondered aloud how to get his mom off his back:

My mom wants to know if there is an exception to this rule. https://t.co/sZxqbR1p6E  Preet Bharara (@PreetBharara) May 6, 2017

 after invoking a Founding Father to rib Congress:

"I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress."  John Adams https://t.co/XoQZGI3gw7  Preet Bharara (@PreetBharara) May 1, 2017

Characterizing his 140-character habit as little more than a fun, occasional sideline, Bharara denied yearning during his tenure as U.S. attorney for the same freedom he now enjoys as private citizen.

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When youre overseeing criminal prosecutions  or youre president of the United States, for that matter  you should speak in a particular voice, you should, I think, have a particular kind of restraint, Bharara said pointedly.

In other words, My personality hasnt changed, my position has changed.

That credo is in direct contrast to the undisciplined style favored by Trump, who has lately taken to blasting out freewheeling, multipart denouncements of the investigation into whether his campaign colluded with Russia to influence the 2016 presidential election.

Still, Bharara declined to say whether he would advise Trump to curb his Twitter usage.

Given that there was a report that his personal lawyer who is advising him on these matters is a person who boasted about having me fired, Im going to let Donald Trump keep his own wise counsel, he said.

ProPublica, citing anonymous sources, reported that Trumps lawyer, Marc Kasowitz, boasted that he told the president to watch out for Bharara, known for cracking down on Wall Street and New York state lawmakers. Bharara now teaches at New York University School of Law.

Though its common for presidents to replace U.S. attorneys appointed by a predecessor of the opposite party, Bharara said Trump had agreed to keep him on after he visited the then president-elect at Trump Tower. Their relationship apparently changed.

As for the revelation that the former prosecutor has the capacity for cracking wise, Bharara dismissed the suggestions that the two were incompatible.

Most people I know in the world are not 100 percent serious or 100 percent glib or 100 percent funny, Bharara said. People have complex personalities, and depending on the occasion, or the mood or the subject matter, they can be one or the other.

And thats also true of me. Im a human being too.

Read more from Yahoo News:
Leonardo DiCaprio may have received some very expensive paintings in a super shady way.

According to artnet, DiCaprio, a known art collector, is reportedly in the process of surrendering a $3.2 million Pablo Picasso painting and a $9 million Jean-Michel Basquiat collage to U.S. authorities in the wake of a huge embezzlement scandal.

Red Granite  the company that produced DiCaprio's movie The Wolf of Wall Street  was co-founded by Riza Aziz, the stepson of Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, and reportedly received illicit financing from the 1Malaysia Development Berhad fund (also known as 1MDB fund). The fund was initially created for the purposes of economic development, but now allegedly has a hand in less noble dealings.

SEE ALSO: Leonardo DiCaprio and Mexico team up to save the cutest little porpoise ever

The U.S. Department of Justices anti-money-laundering division filed a 250-page complaint seeking the surrender of $540 million in assets that it says were bought with money stolen from the 1MDB fund and entities it controlled, reports artnet. These assets include $100 million worth of art, a luxury yacht, and real estate. In addition to the art, the U.S. government previously sought civil forfeiture of any rights to profits, royalties, and distribution proceeds related to The Wolf of Wall Street.

But how is Leo directly involved?

Malaysian financier, art collector, and associate of DiCaprio's, Jho Low, had influence over the corrupt 1MDB fund and has been the subject of investigation for misuse of money before. The government has reason to believe that DiCaprio's Picasso painting, Nature morte au crane de taureau, was a gift from Low.

In a statement, DiCaprios spokesperson explains:

However, the claim that the painting was received for charitable purposes conflicts with the note attached to the painting that read, "Dear Leonardo DiCaprio: Happy belated Birthday! This gift is for you.

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Hmm.

The Basquiat painting, Redman One, was reportedly bought from the Helly Nahmad gallery in New York in March 2013 with funds controlled by an entity known as Tanore, also believed to have been controlled by Low. According to the complaint, Low instructed a gallery in Switzerland as follows:

The letter was signed by both Low and DiCaprio.

Although it seems as if DiCaprio is suddenly under fire for owning these priceless works of art, his spokesperson told artnet,

It looks like America's sweetheart may have a real-life Jordan Belfort problem on his hands. But who needs a priceless Picasso anyway?

[H/T: artnet]
Russia says it will treat US-led coalition planes as potential targets in government-controlled areas of Syria west of the Euphrates River.

The escalation comes a day after the US shot down a Syrian air force jet.

In a statement, the Russian defence ministry said that starting on Monday it will track all jets and drones from the coalition in the area.

And it has demanded a full account of why the US military shot down the Syrian SU-22.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by Islamic State until recent months when Syrian government forces captured most of the region back.

US Central Command confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets downed the Syrian aircraft, which it said had dropped bombs near the American-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The Kurdish-led SDF - which is aligned with the US in the campaign against IS - had warned Syrian government forces to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

The downing of the warplane is the first time in the conflict that the US has shot down a Syrian jet.

Syria said that the fighter jet that was downed was on a combat mission against Islamic State.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar al Assad, has been providing air cover to the government's offensive since 2015.

Clashes between the SDF and Syrian government forces have been rare, with some rebel groups even accusing them of coordinating on the battlefield.

Both sides are battling IS - with SDF fighters focusing on the northern city of Raqqa and government forces attacking IS in northern, central and southern Syria.
Russia warned Monday that any U.S. or coalition aircraft flying west of the Euphrates River in Syria will be tracked by Russian warplanes and anti-aircraft batteries, a swift reaction to Sundays shoot-down of a Syrian Su-22 bomber by an American F-18.

It is unclear if the Russians have the capability to track the dozens of sorties flown by U.S. and coalition aircraft over Syria on any given day, but the threat further raises tensions as U.S.-backed Arab and Kurdish fighters press on the Islamic States stronghold of Raqqa, and American forces increasingly tangle with Iranian-backed militias in Syrias south.

Russia is a staunch ally of the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, along with Iran, and the downing of the Syrian warplane by a U.S. fighter jet represented yet another escalation in an increasingly tense situation unfolding in southeastern Syria. With Islamic State losing territory, forces loyal to the Syrian regime and Iranian-backed militia are increasingly butting heads with troops aligned with the United States.

As part of its protest against the shooting down of the Syrian jet  which the Russian Ministry of Defense called a flagrant violation of international law, in addition to being actual military aggression against the Syrian Arab Republic  Moscow also said it was shutting off the hotline maintained by U.S. and Russian military officers in the region, where each side provides warnings about impending air operations in Syria.

U.S. defense officials said on Monday the hotline remains open. Speaking in Washington on Monday afternoon, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Joseph Dunford said the two sides discussed the matter as recently as Monday morning, and urged patience as the two sides continued to discuss operations in Syria.

Im confident that we are still communicating between our operations center and the Russian Federations operations center, Dunford told an audience at the National Press Club. Im also confident that our forces have the capability to take care of themselves.

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Russia briefly shut down the line in April, after U.S. ships fired 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles at a Syrian air base in response to a chemical weapons attack on civilians launched from the base.

The Russian Federation has indicated that their purpose in Syria, like ours, is to defeat ISIS, and well see if thats true here in the coming hours, Dunford said.

We will continue to conduct air operations throughout Syria, despite the Russian rhetoric, spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition Col. Ryan Dillon told Foreign Policy Monday. The shoot-down was in accordance with the rules of engagement and international law, he said.

Dunford backed that up during his appearance Monday, saying the shoot-down was legal under the 2001 authorization Congress passed for the U.S. military to strike al Qaeda and its offshoots. Since U.S. forces are targeting the Islamic State in Syria, they are covered under that blanket protection.

The Russian statement was careful not to promise to shoot down coalition aircraft, but warned that any coalition aircraft will be followed by Russian ground-based air defense and air defense aircraft as air targets.

The shoot-down of the Su-22 was the first time an American plane shot another manned aircraft down since an incident in Bosnia in the late 1990s. Last week, an F-15 shot down a Iranian-made drone that had attacked U.S. commandos and a group of anti-ISIS Syrian fighters on patrol in southern Syria, near the Iraqi border.

Russia has deployed its S-300 and S-400 air defense systems to bases in western Syria, but it is doubtful they could engage aircraft as far away as Raqqa. Michael Kofman, a research scientist at CNA Corporation told FP that due to the presence of mountains between the Russian coastal batteries and the rest of the country, they probably can only see only at really high altitudes, and even then its doubtful they can see out that far east, to target aircraft near Raqqa.

The incident began on Sunday after pro-regime forces  a blanket term the Pentagon attaches to the groups of Iranian-backed Hezbollah fighters, Iraqi Shiite militias and other groups fighting alongside Syrian government forces  attacked a U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces unit near the city of Taqba, west of Raqqa. The assault came despite what one U.S. defense official told FP was an agreement between the local SDF commander and the Syrian commander not to attack one another in the specified area.

The United States involvement in the six-year old Syrian conflict is getting more complicated. The downing of the Syrian jet, and the subsequent Russian warnings, come as American forces and their allies have grown increasingly entangled with Iranian-backed forces in Syria. As the Islamic States hold on territory shrinks, Iran has pushed to gain a foothold over as much territory as possible to keep lines open from its border with Iraq, all the way through to Damascus, and on to Lebanon.

U.S. warplanes have bombed Iranian-backed Hezbollah fighters three times over the past month, after they moved too close to a U.S. garrison at al-Tanf near the Iraqi border.

Col. Dillon said that the U.S. is tracking the pro-regime forces as they continue to move east from the Taqba area toward Deir Ezzor province that borders Iraq. U.S. commanders have said much of the Islamic States leadership has fled Raqqa for the villages along the Euphrates River Valley in the province, and they expect the city of Maydan, in the valley, to be another large battle.

On Sunday, Iran fired six ballistic missiles at Islamic State targets in Deir Ezzor in response to the recent attack on the Iranian parliament building and a shrine in Tehran.

The Trump administration has been engaged in an internal debate about how to respond to the presence of Iranian-backed militia in southeastern Syria, with some White House officials pushing for a more aggressive approach that would prevent Iran and its proxies from securing the Iran-Syria border area.

FPs Dan De Luce contributed to this article.

Photo Credit: PAUL GYPTEAU/AFP/Getty Images
Riyadh (AFP) - Saudi Arabia said on Monday that it captured three Iranian Revolutionary Guards aboard an explosive-laden boat heading to an oil platform in the Gulf, further ratcheting up tensions in the region.

Iran said the three people detained were fishermen.

The Saudi statement came three days after it said the incident occurred in the Marjan oil field, and two days after Iran accused the Saudis of shooting one of its fishermen in the Gulf waters which divide their two countries.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran were already strained but escalated after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other allies cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago.

They accuse Doha of supporting extremist groups, including some backed by Iran, "that aim to destabilise the region".

Last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called for a permanent mechanism in the Gulf to resolve crises like the diplomatic and economic isolation of Qatar.

The three guards "are now being questioned by Saudi authorities," the information and culture ministry said in its statement.

"It is clear this was intended to be a terrorist act in Saudi territorial waters designed to cause severe damage to people and property," the ministry said.

In Iran, Majid Aghababaie, head of border affairs at the interior ministry, said the three detained were fishermen from the southern Iranian port of Bushehr.

"There is no proof that they are military personnel," he said, in remarks carried by the ILNA news agency.

Saudi Arabia has said it seized weapons from a boat captured in the Marjan field at about 8:30 pm on Friday.

It said the navy fired warning shots when three small boats entered Saudi territorial waters and headed at high speed towards the platforms.

That statement made no mention of explosives and did not detail what type of weapons were found, though it said they were for "subversive purposes".

- Iraq, Sudan leaders visiting -

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That statement also made no mention of arrests but said the boats bore "red and white flags". Two of the boats got away, it said.

On Saturday, Iran accused the Saudi coastguard of killing one of its fishermen after two fishing boats may have strayed into Saudi waters.

Saudi Arabia regularly accuses Shiite-dominated Iran of interfering in Arab countries, and has suggested it is linked to instability in the kingdom's east, where minority Shiites live.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps in turn has accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in June 7 attacks in Tehran, when gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Seventeen people were killed in the attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

Saudi Arabia's announcement of the Guards' capture coincided with visits to the kingdom by Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, and Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir.

Saudi Arabia has been trying to cement its ties throughout the Muslim world against the backdrop of higher tensions with its Iranian rival.
Two officers were responding to a burglary call made by Charleena Lyles during the fatally shot the 30-year-old mother of four: Mat Hayward/Getty Images

Seattle police fatally shot a 30-year-old mother of four in her home after they responded to her emergency call about a burglary.

Charleena Lyles was shot after police saw her holding a knife, the Seattle Times reported.

Ms Lyles lived in Brettler Family Place, a complex of apartment homes meant for people transitioning out of homelessness. She had called the police on the morning of 18 June to report the crime.

Seattle Police issued a statement in which they said Ms Lyles was "armed with a knife" and "confronted" two police officers who had responded to the call.

Recently released audio of the incident indicates that Ms Lyles was reporting a stolen Xbox video game unit.

Detective Mark Jamieson said that police were familiar with Ms Lyles and said her home had a "hazard information" warning for any officers responding to calls there.

Charleena Lyles, 30yo woman who was fatally shot by SPD today. Photo shared with permission from family pic.twitter.com/zHr3DV8mqM  Steven Hsieh (@stevenjhsieh) June 18, 2017

Two officers were sent to the scene instead of one because it presented an increased risk to officers".

The officers, unidentified at this point, performed first aid on the victim but Ms Lyles was declared dead by paramedics at the scene.

It is unclear at this time if the three children present witnessed the shooting, but they are unharmed and being cared for by other family members.

Family members say the fact that Ms Lyles' is black played a role in her death.

Ms Lyles was arrested on 5 June harassment, obstruction of a public official, and harassment of a law enforcement officer, according to the newspaper.

Ms Lyles' sister Monika Williams said that her sister was released on the recommendation that she seek mental health counselling, but it is unclear if that was the case or if she was receiving any such care. She said that Ms Lyles had "mental health issues" for but did not provide any further detail.

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Why couldnt they have Tased her?, said Ms Williams to the newspaper, questioning why police did not subdue her sister in a non-fatal manner. She also said her sister was pregnant.

A police statement released with the audio stated that the officers indeed had less lethal force options on their person at the time. The audio indicates the officers told Ms Lyles to "get back" prior to shooting her.

A Department of Justice investigation in 2012 found that the Seattle Police department regularly used excessive force on the job however, a federal monitoring report in April 2017 showed that the department use of force incidents by officers had decreased since the investigation, Seattle Times reported.

The two officers involved have been placed on administrative leave.

Recently, a Minneapolis, Minnesota police officer was acquitted of all charges after shooting and killing Philando Castile in July 2016. Mr Castile's murder and the aftermath of the incident were broadcast live on Facebook by his girlfriend, whose four-year-old daughter was in the back seat of the vehicle at the time of the shooting.

A candlelight vigil was held with approximately a hundred people near Ms Lyles' home the night of the shooting.
With Adam Rawnsley

U.S. knocks down Syrian bomber. A U.S. Navy F-18 shot down a Syrian Su-22 bomber near Raqqa on Sunday, throwing down an unambiguous new marker for forces who attack U.S.-backed fighters in the country: Washington will defend its allies.

The incident came after Syrian planes bombed U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) pressing on the ISIS stronghold of Raqqa. Its the fourth time U.S. warplanes hit Syrian or pro-government forces (read: Iranian-backed Hezbollah and Shiite militias) in recent weeks, marking an increasingly hot new front in the almost three-year old U.S.-led bombing campaign in Syria.

The American action came after the SDF was attacked by government forces near the town of Taqba, prompting the U.S. military to use a deconfliction channel to communicate with Russian military officials to warn the Syrians off, the Pentagon said. The U.S. then flew a show of force mission to warn the fighters off. Hours later, a Syrian SU-22 bomber struck near the SDF, prompting the American shootdown.

Not the first time. U.S. warplanes bombed Iranian-backed Hezbollah fighters and other forces three times over the past month, after they moved too close to a U.S. garrison at al Tanf near the Iraqi border. Earlier this month, an Iranian-made drone bombed U.S. forces on patrol with their Syrian allies near the base, causing no injuries but prompting a U.S. F-15 to shoot the drone down. In April, American ships launched 59 cruise missiles at a Syrian air base in response to Syrian government chemical weapons attacks on civilians.

Warning shot. Just last week, a U.S. military officer told FP U.S. forces wont hesitate to hit Iranian proxies if American special operations forces are endangered. If our folks are on the ground and theyre threatened, we will use air power, whether its against regime forces or pro-regime forces, the officer said.

War with Iran debated in White House. The incident underscores a sharp policy disagreement taking place at the White House over how forcefully to confront Iran and its proxies in Syria. The back and forth pits civilian hawks in the White House vs. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and the Pentagon brass, who want to take a more measured approach.

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The hawks are being led by Ezra Cohen-Watnick, the senior director for intelligence on the National Security Council, and Derek Harvey, the NSCs top Middle East advisor, according to Kate Brannen, Dan De Luce and Paul McLeary, in a piece FP co-published with Just Security. The duo want the United States to start going on the offensive in southern Syria, where, in recent weeks, the U.S. military has taken a handful of defensive actions against Iranian-backed forces fighting in support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Their plans are making even traditional Iran hawks nervous, including Defense Secretary James Mattis, who has personally shot down their proposals more than once, the two sources said. Read the rest here.

Some relief for al Tanf. The American garrison at al Tanf, which houses about 150 American Special Operations Forces along with commandos from allied countries partnering with Syrian Arab fighters, got some relief over the weekend, when Iraqi forces on the other side of the border cleared ISIS from a nearby border crossing.

Tragedy at sea. A U.S. Navy destroyer collided with a container ship early Saturday, killing seven sailors. The USS Fitzgerald was sailing off the coast of Japan, near Yokosuka, when it was struck, triggering what U.S. 7th Fleet commander Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin called heroic efforts by the crew to save the ship from sinking as water poured into its berthing compartments.

The Navy mounted search and rescue efforts, but were unable to find seven sailors who went missing during the incident until the ship returned to its home port. The deceased include Gunners Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, Gunners Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlosvictor Ganzon Sibayan, Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, and Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr.

Afghanistan. The Pentagon announced last week that SecDef Jim Mattis had been given the authority by President Donald Trump to determine the size of the U.S. troop commitment in Afghanistan. The unprecedented step comes from a White House that has shown itself to be very comfortable with delegating the running of the wars in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan, as well as commando raids and air strikes in Somalia and Yemen, to Pentagon brass and commanders in the field.

The new Afghan strategy, according to military officials, will likely involve giving commanders on the ground more authority to deploy troops as they see fit, allowing them to embed with Afghan army units in the field to assist in calling in air support, and offer tactical advice. That training mission will likely resemble in some ways what U.S. forces are doing in Iraq and Syria. There, American advisors are working with Syrian rebel commanders and Iraqi army officers to formulate battle plans and direct the fight around Mosul and Raqqa, FPs Paul McLeary writes.

The New York Times Mark Landler and Michael Gordon write, it is not clear what Mr. Trumps view of the strategy is, or even how involved he is in the debate. Officials said he did attend two National Security Council meetings last week  the first to discuss the troop issue, and the second to discuss the broader policy for South Asia.

Mr. Trump has said virtually nothing about Afghanistan since he was elected, or even since he started his campaign. But his views on the issue, based on Twitter posts when he was a private citizen, are uniformly hostile to Americas involvement in the war.

Welcome to SitRep. Send any tips, thoughts or national security events to paul.mcleary@foreignpolicy.com or via Twitter: @paulmcleary or @arawnsley.

Iran fires missiles. Iranian Revolutionary Guards launched several mid-range ground-to-ground missiles from western Iran into eastern Syria over the weekend, claiming to have killed a large number of Islamic State terrorists and destroying their equipment and weapons. The strike was in response to the ISIS attack on Irans parliament and a shrine in Tehran earlier this month.

Strange bedfellows. The Israeli military has struck up a relationship with Syrian rebel groups along its northern border in an attempt to create a buffer between it and Assad regime and Iranian-backed forces, according to a scoop from the Wall Street Journal. Israel has paid senior commanders of groups like Fursan al-Joulan and established communication links to rebels dating back to at least 2013. Israeli officials claim that the payments are intended as a form of humanitarian assistance to rebels on its Golan border but rebels tell the Journal that they use the money to buy arms and ammunition.

Forecast. As if the airspace around Syria werent busy enough with military activity these days, Russia has issued a Notice to Airmen warning that the Russian Navy will carry out rocket test firings off the Syrian coast and south of Latakia on Monday.

Suwalki is the new Fulda. NATO carried out its first exercise simulating a defense of the Suwalki Gap, the narrow strip of Polish and Lithuanian territory that planners believe Russia would to capture in order to cut off the Baltics from the rest of NATO territory in the event of war. Reuters reports that the exercise involved 1,500 troops from the U.S., U.K., Poland, Lithuania, and Croatia. Russia will likely follow up the exercises with a drill of its own in Belarus in the coming weeks. While youre reading, remember FPs previous explainer about the importance of the gap.

Wait a minute, Mr. Postman. The U.S. and North Korea had a minor scuffle over a package carried by a North Korean official at John F. Kennedy Airport on Friday. North Koreas state-run KCNA news outlet complained that Homeland Security officials literally mugged their officials, forcibly taking a package from them. The Department of Homeland Security, however, claims that the North Korean officials involved were not accredited diplomat and the package they seized was not entitled to the protection of a diplomatic pouch.

Mali. Islamist terrorists in Mali killed two people at a tourist hotel near Bamako, the BBC reports. Malian and French special operations forces along with UN troops responded to the attack, leading to a firefight with the two attackers in which one of them escaped. The attack follows a 2015 assault on the countrys tourism industry, when militants from al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Al Mourabitoun mounted a mass shooting attack against the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako. An Islamist insurgency in 2013 prompted France to intervene with airstrikes and troops in order to halt the militants advance. Militants from al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Al-Mourabitoun also mounted an atta

Personnel. The Trump administration might have another senior position to fill in the Defense Department if Pacific Command commander Adm. Harry Harris leaves in 2018. Two sources tell Reuters that Harris is expected to depart after three years serving as Pacific Command chief, in line with the tenures of other combatant commanders. A Defense Department spokesman, however, says that no decisions about Harriss future have been made and the Trump administration has not moved to select a successor.

Photo Credit: ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images
Amid growing nuclear threats from North Korea, South Korea is expected to start mass production of new mid-range hit-to-kill missile interceptor, a defense official told the countrys Yonhap News Agency on Saturday. The missile interceptor, codenamed M-SAM, will be used as a central element of Souths Korea Air and Missile Defense System against the North, the report added.

The countrys Defense Acquisition Program Administration is planning to start the production of M-SAM later this year, Yonhap reported, without mentioning the exact date. The missile interceptors are expected to be deployed in 2019.

Read: North Korea Tests More Missiles As US-South Korea THAAD Deployment Is Suspended

M-SAM is capable of intercepting missiles at an altitude of 12-25 miles, the news agency reported. The completion of the missile interceptor reportedly happened two months ahead of its scheduled date in August.

"The prototype of the M-SAM (missile) to intercept an enemy's ballistic missile was rated fit for combat operation by meeting all the requirements at a test early this month," the official told Yonhap.

The development comes after the U.S. successfully shot down a mock intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) over the Pacific Ocean using a long-range interceptor missile May 30. The test was widely seen as a test of Washingtons ability to counter growing nuclear power of North Korea, which has threatened to launch its ICBM  capable of reaching the mainland U.S. After the successful test, which was carried out from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Pentagon said, the intercept was a "direct hit" and an "obliteration" of the target.

North Korea reacted to the U.S. test and said the move was a military provocation.

"Such a risky act is a sign that their (U.S.) preparations for unleashing a nuclear war against the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] have reached the final phase," a spokesman for North Korea's Strategic Force told the countrys official Korea Central News Agency (KCNA) on June 3.

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"Their foolhardy moves go to clearly prove that the DPRK's step for bolstering the nuclear force for self-defense is entirely just," the spokesman told the news agency.

Read: North Korea Says It Fired New Nuclear Missile, Wants Warhead To Hit US

Pyongyang also called the test a bluff.

"They (U.S.) are now bluffing, bragging about the 'success' in the test and the efficiency of the missile interception system. But the DPRK considers it just a foolish act of those driven to despair," the North's spokesman told KCNA. "They are sadly mistaken if they think such missile interception system can prevent the shower of nuclear strike by the Strategic Force of the KPA (Korean People's Army). The last-ditch gambling of the Trump administration for a nuclear war will only bring earlier the day when the U.S. mainland will turn into ashes."

The Kim Jong Un-led nation has repeatedly conducted missile launches, despite strict sanctions and warnings from the United Nations and other countries around the world. This has fueled tensions in the Korean Peninsula.

Related Articles
A tweet about thin privilege  specifically as it relates to svelte women getting social media praise for posting pictures of how they indulge in highly caloric food  has been going viral.

Incase you wondered what fat phobia and thin privilege looks like. ???????????? pic.twitter.com/obmr6RbVoI  Gracie ???? (@GraceFVictory) June 15, 2017

The June 15 post, from UK-based YouTube star and writer Gracie Victory, author of the forthcoming memoir No Filter, notes, In case you wondered what fat phobia and thin privilege looks like, alongside juxtaposing images: first, screen shots of a tiny young woman proudly polishing off a hideous mountain of burgers and fries, boasting, still had room for dessert. Then there are images of a plus-size 13-year-old British girl, who recently made her own Instagram impact for facing her biggest fear by wearing a swimsuit to the beach.

The thin woman indulging in fast food inspired many impressed, supportive comments, including brain says marry her, wife material, my new hero, this is sexy, and f***in boss.

Meanwhile, the image of the British teenager in the swimsuit, whose name is Paris Harvey, elicited the following reactions (among many others of support): thats disgusting, I just see a whale, good to know we encourage obesity now, and its her fault for being fat.

Victorys post has resonated greatly, with more than 69,000 shares, 113,000 likes, and 640 comments  many totally getting the point:

The thin girl ate unhealthy and was applauded, the fat girl went outside and was shamed. Thats the point.  Elizabeth Papandria (@Ezbpapandria) June 15, 2017

THANK YOU TO SOMEONE FOR ADDRESSING THIS https://t.co/YWpVB3LlS6  whit???? (@notyourmcbae) June 15, 2017

WE NEED FAT ACCEPTANCE!!!! https://t.co/WsvYBY3rcQ  Hannah VA Clayton (@hvagclayton) June 15, 2017

Others, of course, couldnt help but use this moment as another fat-shaming opportunity:

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Thin privilege doesnt exist  Kinda Wanna Die (@Suchbandtrash) June 16, 2017

there is no privilege of being thin. Proper diet and exercise allow people to be healthy weights  orby (@LordOrby) June 16, 2017

Thin women getting kudos for stuffing their faces is not a new phenomenon, of course; this past spring, a Long Islandbased beauty queen, Miss New York contestant Sarah Gould, went viral after posting an Instagram video of herself downing a two-foot slice of pizza. The post inspired praise and media coverage around the world; shes since posted images of herself inhaling donuts, a huge pretzel, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, and massive pancakes, with no evidence of shaming.

Its the rare social media user, in fact, who can get away with being both plus-sized and a proudly voracious eater. Mega-popular fat-pride activist Virgie Tovar has done it, becoming a body-image hero to her 27,300 Instagram followers who adore her cheeky foodie, skin-flashing adventures. But it was hard won, as she had to wade through a lot of hateful trolling along the way.

Still, Tovar noted recently, dont mistake what shes aimed for as acceptance.

LIVING MY BEST GINORMOUS BROWNIE SUNDAE LIFE GORL A post shared by Virgie Tovar (@virgietovar) on Jun 18, 2017 at 10:04pm PDT

I dont want acceptance. I want bigots to shut up and stop hurting people, she wrote in an essay for Ravishly. I want the cultural forces that isolate and stigmatize people to cease. I want to be able to choose the life I want on my terms without fear of retaliation from mainstreamers.

Tovar added that, in the conversation around body size, fatness is always constructed as the space left behind by thinness or thin people. She called that a reductive binary, and one in which fatness can never be a stand-alone existence that requires no substantiation. In this paradigm, fatness can never be a choice, a preferred state, a manifestation of wholeness and desire. Fatness is always what resides in the negative space.

Thats not the way it should be, Tovar stresses  and certainly Victory, who has been a Nike model and who collaborated with the brand on the launch of its plus-size line this past spring, agrees. Fat shaming me and my girl on our Nike campaign is hilarious, she had tweeted at the time. We be laughing all the damn way to the bank.

Read more from Yahoo Beauty + Style:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Twitter updates, follow @YahooStyle and @YahooBeauty.
The Cuban diplomat said that Mr Trump's efforts will only increase patriotism in his country: AFP/Getty Images

A top Cuban official says that Donald Trumps announcement last week that he would reinstate travel and business restrictions on the country was a grotesque spectacle straight from the Cold War.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez made the comment during a speech in Vienna on a visit aimed at strengthening relations between Cuba and Austria.

As for the real effects of policy, Mr Rodriguez said that he will need to wait for Mr Trumps measures to be implemented before he can completely assess their impacts. Mr Trump instructed the federal government to begin working on plans for restricting individual travel to Cuba, and on American investment in the country. The President signalled that Cuban human rights violations were a main motivation to try and keep cash from flowing to the Cuban government.

The Cuban Foreign Minister saw a silver lining in Mr Trumps announcement. He said that the US Presidents rollback would strengthen Cuban patriotism. In addition, Mr Rodriguez said that Cuba wouldn't send American fugitives back to the US, which Mr Trump said was a necessary condition to begin renegotiating the relationship between the two countries.

The Presidents decision last week was not without controversy in the United States. While most Republicans cheered the change in policy  including Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who engaged in a nasty fight with Mr Trump for the Republican nomination last year  many said that the changes were a brash political play to try and attract conservative Cuban voters in Florida.

This is not about the Cuban military, it is about politics, as evidenced by the Presidents decision to make this announcement in Miami, Sarah Stephens, an expert on US-Cuba policy, said, and the administrations unwillingness to make a serious strategic argument for the policy.

Critics similarly noted that the President had stopped in Saudi Arabia on his first trip outside of the United States while in office. Saudi Arabia, while a key US ally in the Middle East, is a well-known violator of human rights.
Washington (AFP) - One of Donald Trump's lawyers insisted Sunday that the president was not under criminal investigation as part of the sweeping probe into Russia's alleged meddling in American elections, despite the US leader's tweets angrily calling the whole saga a "distraction."

The contradictory messages came after Trump first answered -- and seemingly confirmed -- reports that he is personally under scrutiny for potential obstruction of justice, tweeting on Friday: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt."

But Jay Sekulow, part of Trump's legal team, said the president was writing about reports of an investigation, not an actual probe.

"The tweet from the president was in response to the five anonymous sources purportedly leaking info to The Washington Post," Sekulow told NBC television's "Meet the Press."

"He's not afraid of the investigation -- there is no investigation... there is not an investigation of the president of the United States, period."

The lawyer also suggested Twitter's character limit may be partly to blame.

"The president's response was as it related to the Washington Post report. He cannot in a Twitter statement include all of that in there... That's it. Simple explanation," Sekulow told CNN's "State of the Union."

Sekulow was referring to a report in the Post this week that said Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian interference in November's presidential election was now also trying to determine whether Trump obstructed justice.

Trump's fledgling presidency has been battered by allegations -- being dissected both by Congress and the FBI -- that Russia interfered to sway the 2016 election in his favor, in possible collusion with the former real estate magnate's campaign team.

On Sunday, Trump again referred to the probe, but dismissed it.

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"The MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN agenda is doing very well despite the distraction of the Witch Hunt. Many new jobs, high business enthusiasm, massive regulation cuts, 36 new legislative bills signed, great new S.C. Justice, and Infrastructure, Healthcare and Tax Cuts in works!" he wrote.

Sekulow said his legal team had not received notice of any probe into Trump.

"There has been no notification from the special counsel's office that the president is under investigation. In fact, to the contrary," he told CBS' "Face the Nation," pointing to recent testimony by sacked FBI director James Comey who said the president had not been the target of an investigation. Trump fired Comey in early May.

- Tapes next week? -

Trump has hinted that he may have taped conversations with Comey -- in which the ex-FBI chief says the president pressured him for his loyalty and on the Russia investigation while also urging him to drop a probe into former national security advisor Michael Flynn.

Sekulow said Trump would address the issue of the tapes -- whose very existence is unclear -- in the "week ahead."

Senator Marco Rubio, who lost the Republican primary election to Trump, called for a "full and credible investigation."

He sits on the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is conducting its own probe into Russian election meddling.

Angus King, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, estimated that investigators are just 20 percent into their probe, which could last for months.

"I can say categorically that the collusion or cooperation aspect of the investigation is not over," the Maine senator told "Meet the Press," adding that the probe could be done by the end of 2017.

"This is a very complex matter, involving thousands of pages of intelligence documents, lots of witnesses."

Trump returned to the White House on Sunday after spending Father's Day weekend at the Camp David presidential retreat.

He told reporters upon his return that the western Maryland mountain retreat is "incredible" and "beautiful," later tweeting that it is "a very special place."

"An honor to have spent the weekend there. Military runs it so well and are so proud of what they do!" he posted.

First Lady Melania Trump also sent a tweet on Sunday: "#HappyFathersDay @POTUS," she said, referring to her husband by his official Twitter handle and adding a heart emoticon.
President Trumps lawyer said he does not give his client advice when it comes to using Twitter.

Im the lawyer, Jay Sekulow, an attorney on Trumps outside legal team, told Fox & Friends on Monday. I dont tell him what to write or not what to write.

Sekulow spent part of his weekend trying to explain the presidents tweeted assertion that he is being investigated in the federal probe into Russias interference into the 2016 presidential election.

I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Trump wrote to his millions of followers Friday. Witch Hunt.

I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 16, 2017

But Sekulow said Sunday the tweet was a reaction to a Washington Post report and not an acknowledgment by the president that he is a target of a federal probe.

The president is not under investigation by the special counsel, Sekulow said on NBCs Meet the Press. The president has not been and is not under investigation.

So the president said, I am under investigation, even though he isnt under investigation? a confused-looking Jake Tapper asked Sekulow on CNNs State of the Union.

That response on social media was in response to the Washington Post piece  its that simple, Sekulow replied. The president issued that tweet, that social media statement, based on a fake report, a report with no documented sources, in the Washington Post.

Related: Trump lawyer: His tweet about being investigated did not confirm probe

On Fox & Friends, Sekulow pointed to an on-air report by ABC News senior justice correspondent Pierre Thomas, who said sources told him that Mueller has plans to talk to some people in the administration about Trumps possible obstruction, but that hes not yet made that momentous decision to go for a full-scale investigation.

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Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, one of Trumps staunchest supporters, said on ABCs This Week on Sunday that the presidents compulsion to counterattack doesnt serve him well.

I dont think that tweet helped him, Gingrich said.

Sekulow was asked by Fox & Friends co-host Brian Kilmeade why he hasnt instructed Trump not to tweet when so much is on the line.

Im not going to discuss with you legal advice I have or I have not given my client, Sekulow replied. I will say this: The president does utilize Twitter.

Also read: 140 characters in search of an editor: The tweets that will haunt Trump

He reiterated that Trumps tweet was in response to the Post story, which had five anonymous sources.

Can you imagine if the president didnt have the opportunity to respond? Sekulow said. He should have the opportunity to respond.

Earlier on the show, Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway said the multiple investigations into Russias meddling is preventing Trump from moving on with policies and solutions of the day.

Were starting to waste tens of millions of dollars of taxpayer money on this endeavor, she said. I think this is part of the resistance and the obstruction.

Read more from Yahoo News:
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited displaced families at a refugee camp in Juba, South Sudan, on June 18, as part of a regional tour ahead of World Refugee Day on Tuesday, June 20.

Upon the release of the UNHCRs Global Trends Report 2016 on June 19, Grandi said in a press release, It speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, and ensuring together that the worlds refugees, internally displaced and asylum seekers are properly protected and cared for while solutions are pursued. Credit: UNHCR via Storyful
South Korean President Moon Jae-In on Sunday appointed a United Nations veteran as the country's first female foreign minister, tasked with easing tensions over North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

Kang Kyung-Wha, 62, served as Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights and Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs before becoming a senior policy advisor to UN chief Antonio Guterres this year.

Her appointment comes less than two weeks before Moon's first trip to the US for a summit with President Donald Trump as fears grow over Pyongyang's weapons programme.

The isolated regime has staged a series of missile launches this year, defying global pressure and triggering tightened UN sanctions.

Kang served at the South's foreign ministry for years before joining the UN.

Her diplomatic experience will help the South navigate tricky waters and tackle sensitive issues with its allies and neighbours, Moon's office said earlier.

Moon, a centre-left politician who took office after the ouster of impeached president Park Geun-Hye, has advocated dialogue with the North to bring it to the negotiating table in a break from his conservative predecessors who took a hardline stance against Pyongyang.

Ties with the US have also come under strain recently over a controversial deployment of a US anti-missile system in the South that soured relations with China, which sees it as a threat.

The South under Park agreed last year to install the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to guard against threats from the North, prompting Beijing to deploy informal economic sanctions against South Korean businesses in April.

Though parts of the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system are already in place, Moon this month suspended further deployment, dealing a blow to Washington's regional security policy.

Officially, the delay is to allow for a new, comprehensive environmental impact assessment, but analysts say the move is a strategic delay by Moon to dodge the tricky diplomatic situation he inherited.
UPDATE: 5:26 a.m. EDT: Referring to the launch of several midrange missiles by Irans Revolutionary Guards Corps on Sunday in Syria, Foreign Minister Javad Zarif called it an act of self-defense.

UPDATE: 1:55 a.m. EDT: After a U.S. fighter plane shot down a Syrian jet Sunday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Monday, called on the U.S. to avoid unilateral actions, Russian news agency TASS reported.

"With regard to what is happening on the ground in the CAP, we believe that it is necessary to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, as provided for in UN Security Council Resolution 2254 and other UN documents, Lavrov said after a meeting of foreign ministers of the BRICS countries. Therefore, any action on the ground, and there are many participants, including participants who carry out military action should be coordinated with Damascus," he added.

Original story:

A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian plane Su-22 Sunday near the Islamic State group-held city of Raqqa after the plane dropped bombs near coalition forces supported by the U.S. This marked the latest escalation between the U.S. and Syria since the civil war began in the middle eastern country six years ago.

The attack on the Syrian aircraft came hours after pro-Syrian regime forces attacked U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in the village of Ja'Din, southwest of Raqqa, according to a press statement released by Combined Joint Task Force, the U.S.-led international coalition against the Islamic State group, also called ISIS.

Read: Hundreds Of Civilians Have Been Killed In Syria By US-led Airstrikes

Conflict Intelligence Team  a not-for profit founded by blogger and activist Ruslan Leviev and three others in 2014 with the aim of investigating reports of military activity in Ukraine and Syria  tweeted that Syria Ministry of Defense has confirmed that their jet was attacked by an international coalition.

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"The Coalition's mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat," the statement read.

A statement, according to the Washington Post, distributed by the Syrian military said the aircrafts lone pilot was killed in the attack and that the jet was carrying out a mission against the ISIS.

The downing of the Syrian jet by U.S. forces came on the same day when Irans Revolutionary Guards Corps launched several midrange missiles from inside Iran at targets in Syria, several media outlets reported citing the Iran military. The attack was aimed to punish the ISIS forces who carried out the terrorist attacks in Tehran recently.

The Revolutionary Guards said, according to the New York Times, the missile launches targeted the headquarters and meeting place and suicide car assembly line of ISIS terrorists in the province of Deir al-Zour, where Islamic State group forces surround an estimated 200,000 people in a government-held section of the provincial capital of the same name.

The missile strikes are the first reported ground-to-ground attack from Iran into Syria since the latter got embroiled in a civil war in 2011.

However, U.S. officials said there appeared to be no direct link between the two attacks. They also said that Syria is a complex region in which the Assad regime, Russia, Turkey, Iran, Israel and the U.S., with its allies, have carried out air or missile strikes to achieve different and competing objectives.

Read: Is ISIS Losing Ground In Syria?

The launching of the Iranian missiles came hours after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a statement on his website, vowed Iran would "slap its enemies" in honour of the victims' families, including those killed in Syria and Iraq, according to Al Jazeera.
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Beirut (AFP) - Russia on Monday warned it would track US-led coalition aircraft in central Syria as "targets" and halted an incident-prevention hotline with Washington after US forces downed a Syrian jet.

Moscow has only once before suspended the hotline, which was established in October 2015 to prevent conflict between the different forces operating in Syrian airspace.

The shootdown incident and Russia's response further complicate Syria's six-year war and come as the US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, but warn that the risks are high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields.

Russia's foreign ministry accused Washington of failing to use the hotline before downing the plane near Raqa, and called for a "careful investigation by the US command" into the incident.

"Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates river will be tracked as aerial targets by Russia's air defences on and above ground," it warned.

The Syrian jet was shot down on Sunday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against IS, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7:00 pm as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces".

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- 'Flagrant aggression' -

Syria's army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while "conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group."

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov called it a "continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law," adding: "What is this if not an act of aggression?"

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital.

It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syria's eastern border.

But the advances have created conflict with the US-led coalition, particularly along the Syrian border, where US and other foreign forces are training an anti-IS force at the Tanf garrison.

In recent weeks, the coalition has fired on pro-regime ground forces approaching the garrison and shot down a pro-regime armed drone.

The coalition describes these incidents as "force protection" measures and says its primary focus remains targeting IS.

Outside of coalition operations, US forces have only once directly targeted the regime, when Washington launched a barrage of strikes in April against an airbase it said was the launchpad for an alleged chemical attack that killed dozens of civilians.

Sam Heller, a Syria expert at The Century Foundation think-tank, said the regime was provoking confrontations, but neither side appeared to want a major escalation.

"I think that it was just that the regime engaged in a provocation and then a lower-rung US commander responded in self-defence," he said of Sunday's incident.

"The regime got too close and it got burned."

- 'Escalation by accident' -

He said the provocations by Syria's government and its allies were a potentially risky strategy.

"It doesn't look like anyone currently intends to deliberately escalate further, but when you've got these little skirmishes... the risk is that you can end up in an escalation by accident."

On Monday morning, the area where the regime and SDF fighters clashed was quiet, and the US-backed force was continuing to battle IS inside Raqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said.

Government forces meanwhile seized the town of Rusafa, south of Raqa, a key stop on its path to Deir Ezzor and located near provincial oil and gas fields, the monitor said.

Syria's war began in March 2011 with anti-government protests, but has since spiralled into a complex and bloody conflict that has killed more than 320,000 people.

Syria's rebels are now on the backfoot after regime advances with support from allies Russia and Iran.

On Sunday, Tehran for the first time fired missiles from its territory against IS positions in Deir Ezzor.

It said the missiles were "in retaliation" for a June 7 attack on the parliament complex and shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 people and was claimed by IS.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also announced Monday that the next round of Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital Astana will be held on July 10.

The meeting is set to coincide with a fresh round of UN-sponsored Syria peace talks that will also begin in Geneva the same day.
AP

American forces have shot down a Syrian government fighter jet accused of attacking Kurdish-led troops, prompting a furious response from Damascus as tensions increase.

US Central Command said the SU-22 dropped bombs near the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who are being supported by the US-led coalition as they advance on the terrorist stronghold of Raqqa.

In accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces, it was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet, a statement said.

The Coalition's mission is to defeat Isis in Iraq and Syria. The Coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend Coalition or partner forces from any threat.

The Coalition presence in Syria addresses the imminent threat Isis in Syria poses globally. The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward Coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated.

It was the most significant US attack on Bashar al-Assad's forces since April, when Donald Trump ordered missile strikes on a government airbase that launched a chemical attack.

Smoke rises from the al-Mishlab district at Raqqas southeastern outskirts on 7 June (Reuters)

American forces also attacked pro-government troops last month, then it bombed hostile units near an SDF training base in An Tanf.

Commanders from the anti-Isis mission codenamed Operation Inherent Resolve said the SDF-held town of Jadin, near Tabqa on the outskirts of Raqqa, came under attack from pro-regime forces on Sunday afternoon.

The attack started at 4.30pm local time (2.30pm BST), wounding a number of SDF fighters and forcing them to flee the strategic town.

Planes from the US-led coalition conducted a show of force that stopped the initial advance by pro-Assad troops, a statement said, adding: The Coalition [then ]contacted its Russian counterparts by telephone via an established 'de-confliction line' to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing.

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But at 6.43pm local time (4.30pm BST), the Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of Tabqah and the US shot it down.

The account was contested by Syrian army commanders, who said the plane was bombing nearby Isis positions, rather than the SDF.

A statement carried by the state-owned Syrian Arab News Agency accused the US of supporting terrorism by attacking Assad's forces.

The attack stresses coordination between the US and Isis, and it reveals the evil intentions of the US in administrating terrorism and investing it to pass the US-Zionist project in the region," the agency quoted general command as saying.

Majd Fahd, a correspondent for website al-Masdar News, claimed the pilot was his cousin and a father-of-three. You American bastards just shot down my cousin's aircraft (Ali) while taking out the scumbags of Isis in the area," he tweeted. Your kids are waiting for you. Please come back safe and very soon.

The outlet later reported clashes between the Syrian Arab Army and SDF in the area, after pro-regime troops reportedly attempted to cross the front line to recover the pilot.

American officials said Ja'din sits approximately a mile north of an established de-confliction zone between the SDF to the north and Syrian regime to the south.

The Coalition calls on all parties to focus their efforts on the defeat of Isis, which is our common enemy and the greatest threat to regional and worldwide peace and security, a spokesperson for US Central Command added.

The battle to drive Isis out of swathes of territory in northern Syria has brought opposing local and international actors into fresh conflict in the countrys six-year-long civil war.

The SDF, which incorporates the Kurdish Peoples Protection Units (YPG), has been declared a terrorist group by Turkey and come under attack from rebels backed by Ankara, which perceives Kurdish gains along its border as a threat.

Assads forces have predominantly been fighting anti-government rebels and Islamist extremists including al-Qaeda linked groups, but are expected to increasingly turn their fire on the SDF as other targets wane.

Russia is supporting the Syrian government alongside Iran, while its rival Saudi Arabia is part of the US-led coalition bombing Isis.

The coalition is supporting the SDFs advance on Isis de-facto capital of Raqqa with air strikes, while members have also given training and support to selected anti-Isis groups, and American and British special forces are on the ground.

The UN warned this week that the bombing campaign is killing a staggering number of civilians in Isis-held territory, with air strikes continuing to intensify.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it launched its own air strikes against Isis on Sunday, in response to terror attacks on the parliament building and a shrine on Tehran.

Tehran said surface-to-surface medium range missiles hit Deir Ezzor province, where militants fleeing the advance on Raqqa are fortifying their positions.

A statement said they were launched from Iran's Kurdistan and Kermanshah provinces, where footage shared on social media appeared to show the missiles rise in an orange glow before heading over Iraq towards their targets.

The Revolutionary Guard said many terrorists were killed and their weapons had been destroyed in the strike but the account could not be independently confirmed.

A statement warned Isis militants and their regional and international supporters of further attacks in retaliation to any future atrocities in Iran.

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Additional reporting by AP
Chicago (AFP) - Otto Warmbier, the US student released by North Korea in a coma last week after more than a year in detention, has died, his family said Monday.

The 22-year-old, who had suffered severe brain damage, was medically evacuated to the United States on June 13. He died Monday at 2:20 pm (1820 GMT), surrounded by relatives in his home town of Cincinnati, Ohio.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home," his family said in a statement.

"The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible," they added.

Pyongyang said that Warmbier fell into a coma soon after he was sentenced in March of last year for stealing a political poster from a North Korean hotel. The regime claimed the young man fell into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill.

Doctors treating Warmbier said he had suffered extensive tissue loss in all regions of his brain, but showed no signs of physical trauma. Medical tests offered no conclusive evidence as to the cause of his neurological injuries, and no evidence of a prior botulism infection.

They said Warmbier's severe brain injury was most likely -- given his young age -- to have been caused by cardiopulmonary arrest cutting the blood supply to the brain.

Warmbier's father, Fred, lashed out at Kim Jong-Un's authoritarian state last week, telling a news conference, "there is no excuse for any civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and denied him top-notch medical care for so long."

In their statement Monday, Otto's family said they believed he had found a peace of sorts after being flown home.

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable -- almost anguished," they said.

"Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that," they added.

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"We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. We are at peace and at home too."

The university student, who had been on a tourist trip, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor, a punishment the US decried as far out of proportion to his alleged crime, accusing the North of using him as a political pawn.

President Donald Trump had urged the nation to pray for Otto Warmbier, describing his ordeal as a "truly terrible thing."

Warmbier's release came amid mounting tensions with Washington following a series of missile tests by Pyongyang, focusing attention on an arms buildup that Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has dubbed "a clear and present danger to all."
Washington (AFP) - The United States wants to re-establish a military hotline that Russia said it had severed after an American jet shot down a Syrian regime warplane, the top US general said Monday.

The so-called "deconfliction" line has been a vital tool in protecting both sides' forces as they conduct separate campaigns in Syria's crowded battlespace.

"We will work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to re-establish deconfliction," said General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, referring to the special communications channel.

Russia's defense ministry earlier said it would halt its use of the incident-prevention hotline after US forces downed a Syrian jet, though Dunford noted it had remained in use "over the last few hours."

Russia also warned that its air defense systems would begin tracking all US-led coalition aircraft in central Syria, prompting the Pentagon to move some of its planes.

"We have taken prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria so as to continue targeting ISIS forces while ensuring the safety of our aircrew given known threats in the battlespace," Pentagon spokesman Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway said, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer said "we are going to do what we can to protect our interests," adding that the United States would keep an open line of communication with the Russians.

Moscow has previously threatened to scrap the deconfliction line, after an April 7 US cruise missile strike on a Syrian regime airbase in retaliation for a suspected chemical weapons attack against civilians.

The line has been a lifesaving -- albeit imperfect -- tool since it was set up soon after Russia entered Syria's civil war in late 2015 to prop up President Bashar al-Assad.

The hotline was established between US officers monitoring the war from an operations center at a base in Qatar and their Russian counterparts operating in Syria.

If Moscow does indeed abandon the hotline, it could dramatically raise the risk to pilots and ground forces on all sides.
London (AFP) - Londoners bearing flowers and messages of solidarity gathered Monday at the spot where a man ploughed a van into Muslims leaving prayers at a mosque, the fourth terror strike in Britain in four months.

Eleven people were injured in the attack, which took place early Monday near Finsbury Park mosque, north London, raising fears of retaliation against Muslims after recent assaults by Islamic extremists.

One elderly man, who had collapsed just before the incident, was pronounced dead at the scene, but it is not yet known whether his death was directly linked to the van assault.

Among the roughly 100 people at the vigil, some carried signs reading "United Against All Terror".

"One of the things that all these terrorists share is a perverse ideology that wants to fuel division and divide our communities. We're not going to let them," said Mayor Sadiq Khan, speaking after prayers at the Muslim Welfare House on Monday evening.

Flowers were left at the scene where hours earlier the 47-year-old van driver was pinned down by locals and shielded from violence by an imam, before being detained by police.

The driver was later arrested on suspicion of "the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder", the police said.

The suspect was identified by British media as Darren Osborne, a father of four who lived in the Welsh capital Cardiff.

As police searched a property, five residents speaking to journalists from the Press Association news agency identified images of the arrested man as their neighbour, Osborne.

Security Minister Ben Wallace told BBC radio that the suspect was "not known to us".

- Stepped-up police presence -

London police chief Cressida Dick said the incident was "quite clearly an attack on Muslims" and promised a stepped-up police presence near mosques as the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close.

Witness Abdiqadir Warra told AFP the van "drove at people" and that some of the victims were carried for several metres along the road.

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"He was shouting: 'I want to kill all Muslims'," another witness, Khalid Amin, told BBC television.

The Finsbury Park Mosque said the van "deliberately mowed down Muslim men and women leaving late evening prayers" at the mosque and the nearby Muslim Welfare House shortly after midnight.

Eleven people were hurt, all Muslims, with nine requiring hospital treatment. Two were in a very serious condition, police said.

One Algerian man was among those injured, the north African country said.

Locals pinned down the driver and the imam of the Muslim Welfare House stepped in to stop him receiving a mob beating.

France and Germany quickly condemned the attack and Egypt's Al-Azhar institution, the leading authority in Sunni Islam, condemned it as "sinful".

"Al-Azhar affirms its total rejection of this terrorist, racist, sinful act, calling on Western countries to take all precautionary measures to limit the phenomenon of Islamophobia," it said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka expressed solidarity with the worshippers in a tweet but her father has so far not commented.

- Community in shock -

Prime Minister Theresa May, who was heavily criticised for failing to meet survivors of a devastating fire in a London tower block last week, visited Finsbury Park Mosque where she met local faith leaders.

May condemned the assault as "sickening", saying Britain's determination to fight "terrorism, extremism and hatred... must be the same, whoever is responsible".

The use of a vehicle to mow down pedestrians drew horrifying parallels with this month's London Bridge attack.

In that incident, three men slammed a van into pedestrians before embarking on a stabbing spree -- an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

In March London was hit with another car and knife rampage, that one near parliament. It was also claimed by IS.

This time the attacker deliberately targeted Muslims, according to the police.

"Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia and this is the most violent manifestation to date," said Harun Khan, head of the Muslim Council of Britain, an umbrella body.

After the London Bridge attack, the mayor's office reported a 40-percent increase in racist incidents in the capital and a five-fold increase in anti-Muslim incidents.

Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, described the attack as "cowardly".

"Our community is in shock," he said, urging people attending prayers to remain vigilant.

- 'Extraordinary city' -

It was the third major incident in the capital this month, after the London Bridge attack and last week's devastating fire in the Grenfell Tower block, in which 79 people are thought to have died.

"This is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people," May said outside Downing Street after chairing an emergency government meeting.

"Diverse, welcoming, vibrant, compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate."

Last month, a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a pop concert in Britain's third city of Manchester, killing 22 people, many of them children.

The Finsbury Park Mosque was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has changed markedly in recent years under new management.

Its former imam, Abu Hamza, was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015.

Despite the change in leadership and the focus on bolstering inter-faith relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the Paris attacks.
Personal information pertaining to as many as 198 million American registered voters was held in a publicly accessible online database, a security researcher revealed today (June 19).

Credit: Burlingham/Shutterstock

Credit: Burlingham/Shutterstock

The data was held in an online repository operated by Deep Root Analytics (DRA), a voter-data-analytics firm associated with the Republican National Committee. It included full names, street addresses, dates of birth, telephone numbers, political affiliation and ethnicities, but did not include more sensitive data such as email addresses, Social Security numbers or financial information.

What You Need to Know

It's important to note that there's not much risk to the affected individuals, as the database has been secured and most of the information was already publicly available.

Because there's no evidence that the data was stolen or posted online, it doesn't seem that the affected individuals (almost everyone who was registered to vote in the 2008 and 2012 U.S. presidential elections) would be at greater risk of identity theft. Even if the database were to be made public  as did happen in a similar case in December 2015  the increased risk would be pretty small.

MORE: Best Identity-Protection Services

The database was discovered by Chris Vickery, a security researcher who specializes in finding unsecured sensitive data online. (Vickery found the 2015 database as well.) On June 12, Vickery was poking around the Amazon Web Services (AWS) repository belonging to DRA and discovered that a subdomain called "dra-dw" was accessible without a password.

"DW" stood for "data warehouse," according to a blog posting by UpGuard, the firm for which Vickery currently works. It contained 24 terabytes of data that Vickery couldn't access, and 1 terabyte of data that he could access. That last bit included the voter records and a cache of politically oriented Reddit posts.

Vickery notified DRA on June 14, but not until after he had downloaded everything that he could access. (The unspoken question is why he didn't notify DRA when he initially found the data.) The company closed off access almost immediately.

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In a statement to The Intercept, a representative for DRA said that the database was left exposed following "a change that was made in the files asset access protocols".

"We believe the change that was made happened post June 1, 2017, which was when we last evaluated and updated our security settings," the statement said. "We do not believe that our systems have been hacked. To date, the only entity that we are aware of that had access to the data was Chris Vickery."

See also : The Worst Data Breaches of All Time
A particularly strange petition landed Monday on the desk of the Supreme Courts judge on duty. Two lawyers, Shahar Ben Meir and Yitzhak Aviram, asked the High Court of Justice to forbid Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked , who also serves as chairperson of the Judicial Selection Committee, to hold a discussion on the seniority method, through which the committee automatically appoints the most veteran Supreme Court judge as the chief justice.

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Why is it a strange petition? For two reasons. The first reason is the ban the petitioners are asking the court to impose on a holding a discussion on the issue. The acceptable rule is that the High Court deals with practical matter rather than with theoretical questions. The need for such a petition, therefore, is unclear.

The second, and more important, reason is the inherent conflict of interest which all Supreme Court judges are subject to when dealing with the seniority issue. The conflict of interest stems from the fact that cancelling the method would make each and every one of them a possible candidate for the prominent position. Even if we assume that the discussion Minister Shaked wishes to hold will have some kind of practical meaning, its unclear who can even discuss such a petition.

The fact that the seniority method has yet to disgrace the Supreme Court and the State of Israel can be seen as a sort of miracle (Photo: Noam Moskovich)

The petition only exposes the fundamental problem in the way Israels Supreme Court is run, a Supreme Court whose judges feel no obligation to answer to anyone. The High Court will likely deny the petition, if only for the sake of appearance. The Judicial Selection Committees discussion will likely feature experts and jurists who will voice their different opinions. Some will support the method, while others will oppose it. Lets just hope that the justice minister wont cave in and will get the committee to adopt a decision in principle against the seniority system.

President Reuven Rivlin made a good argument against the system earlier this week. The president noted, with a lot of integrity, that in spite of the positive experience gained with the seniority system, its definitely possible that this method will cause the State of Israel a great amount of embarrassment. Israel has no efficient impeachment system for Supreme Court justices, and a situation in which the State of Israels legal system is headed by a bad judge, lacking inspiration and management skills, is definitely possible.

Beyond the concern raised by Rivlin, which is somewhat theoretical at this point, cancelling the seniority system is genuinely required. Would we accept a situation in which the most senior general in the IDFs General Staff is automatically appointed chief of staff? Would we be able to live with a situation in which the most senior minister becomes prime minister? Even at the Knesset, where the most veteran Knesset member opens the first parliamentary session, he is replaced with a democratically elected Knesset speaker within days or even hours.

The seniority system serves as a negative incentive for excellence among Supreme Court justices. Furthermore, it creates unnecessary and problematic score-settling in Supreme Court appointments, because the moment a justice is appointed, his or her future presidency is already determined. The fact that this method has yet to disgrace the Supreme Court and the State of Israel can be seen as a sort of miracle, but according to the famous Talmud rule, we must not rely on miracles. The seniority system must be canceled, the sooner the better.
The IDF is marking the final ten days of Ramadan as a particularly sensitive moment for security, fearing another attack similar to the twin attack carried out on Friday evening in Jerusalem.

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IDF and security forces always prepare in advance for the month of Ramadan, increasing their operations in the West Bank and east Jerusalem due to the high chances of renewed attacks.

IDF forces encircle Deir Abu Mash'al

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Forces belonging to the IDF's Judea and Samaria Division have been instructed to raise their level of alertness as a result of Friday's attack, but thus far, there have been no restrictions on movements put on Palestinians within the West Bank, with the exception of the encirclement of Deir Abu Mash'al, near Ramallah, where the three terrorists came from.

Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit

The village has been marked by the IDF as a "violent area," where many operations have been carried out over the past year including confiscation of illegal vehicles, searches for illegal weapons and numerous arrests of terror suspects.

Photo: Reuters

However, despite few restrictions within the West Bank as a result of the attack, some 250,000 entry visas for Palestinians have been cancelled and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the area around the Damascus Gate be declared a security area.

Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman leveled blame at the Palestinian Authority, saying, "We will continue to fight relentless Palestinian terror and the unbridled incitement that feeds it. We will pursue the perpetrators and instigators wherever they may be. The thunderous silence from the PA, which refuses to condemn terrorism, and the claims by Abbas that Israel murdered three innocent Palestinians, proves there is no partner on the other side."

Despite increased IDF activity in the area prior to Friday's terror attack, the three terrorists still managed to cross the West Bank and exit the village armed with guns and knives without being detected by security forces.
Hamas played down on Sunday the possibility that the energy crisis in the Gaza Strip would lead to renewed hostilities with Israel and said relations between the Islamist group and Egypt were improving.

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"We in Hamas do not initiate wars and we do not expect one, this is our political assessment," Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas's deputy leader in the Gaza Strip, told reporters in Gaza. The two adversaries have fought three wars, most recently in 2014.

"We do not expect war because we are not interested and the Occupation also say they are not interested," he said, using the group's term for Israel.

Gaza Strip (Photo: AFP)

Tensions over power supplies in recent weeks have led to speculation there could be a new conflict between the two sides.

Israel said last week it would reduce electricity supplies to the Gaza Strip after the Palestinian Authority (PA), which is pressing Hamas to relinquish control of the enclave seized in 2007, limited how much it pays for power to the area.

The decision was expected to shorten by 45 minutes the daily average of four hours of power that Gaza's 2 million residents receive from an electricity grid dependent on Israeli supplies, the officials said.

The West Bank-based Palestinian Authority blamed Hamas's failure to reimburse it for electricity for the reduction in power supplies.

Separately, a Palestinian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said on Sunday that Cairo had agreed in talks last week with a Hamas delegation to sell the group fuel to get the Gaza Strip's sole power station back online.

Fuel for the small plant ran out two months ago, and a resumption of operations could give Gazans power for eight hours a day.

There was no immediate word from Egyptian officials on whether a deal had been struck, and Hayya declined to confirm any agreement.

He said Hamas's newly elected Gaza leader, Yehya al-Sinwar, had met in Cairo with Egyptian officials and discussed securing the frontier with Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, where ISIS fighters have killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers.

Egypt has accused Hamas of aiding the militants, an allegation the group denies, and has kept its border crossing with the Gaza Strip largely closed. Israel also maintains tight restrictions along its frontier with the enclave.

Hamas-appointed security chief Tawfiq Abu Naeem, one of the delegates to Cairo, recently toured the Egyptian border and issued new orders to tighten security there.

"Securing borders is a joint interest. We are keen and we have the determination and the ability to prevent any harm to reach out for Egypt from Gaza," Hayya said.
The Israel Police issued a statement on Sunday saying that they have extracted a murder confession from the cousin of 19-year-old Bedouin woman Hanan al-Bakhiri, who disappeared last month. In addition to her cousin, the suspects in Hanan's murder are two of her uncles. The case is being treated as an "honor killing." On Saturday, several protest rallies broke out across Israel, calling on authorities to act to protect women from domestic violence, in light of the high murder rate over the past six months.

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Hanan Al-Bakhiri had called her mother on May 3, around 9 pm, telling her she was on her way home. Police suspect that shortly after, she was kidnapped and led to her death.

The Tel Aviv protest rally (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

It was Hanan's cousin, Mahmed, who eventually confessed to the murder during a police interrogation, saying he had killed Hanan together with his father Yunas and uncle Sager al-Bakhiri. After confessing to the murder, Mahmed lead the police to the spot where Hanan was buried. Though he acknowledged killing her, he did not express any remorse over his actions. Police have informed her mother that Hana's remains will be transferred for a proper burial.

Hanan al-Bakhiri (Photo: Courtesy of Israel Police)

After her father died, Hanan was put under the custody of her uncle. She was eventually married off to a man with disabilities, whom she divorced shortly after, about six months before her disappearance. After Hanan was requested to return the money her husband's family had paid for her, she found a job and began leaving the house for work. The police investigation found that her uncle saw both the divorce and her decision to start working as actions that "dishonored" their family.

Habima Sq. in Tel Aviv (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Police furthermore found that after she was kidnapped, her uncles and cousin kept her alive for a week, as they searched her belongings and interrogated her about the people with whom she had been in contact. When they were done, they broke her neck, before proceeding to burn her body for two hours, remove her remains in a sack and then bury them in the ground, three to four meters deep.

Tel Aviv protest (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Hanan had in the past filed a complaint against her half brother, alleging he had threatened and hurt her. She later withdrew her complaint, saying that nothing had really happened. During an investigation, though, it was discovered that he had broken her hand and threatened her to drop the charges.

Hanan's neighbors expressed sorrow over her murder. "Poor Hanan," one of them said. "The things we know are hard to say. We have our customs, which are different than (those of Jewsed). There are things we see in a non-positive way. For you, it's freedom. We have our mentality. I didn't see her going out with someone with my own eyes, and if you haven't seen something with your own eyes, you can't say anything. But there are a lot of rumors. People see her go out. Come back. A cousin says something. Another person says something."

Haifa rally (Photo: Zohar Shahar)

The suspects are being represented by attorneys Mahmed Abu Farih, Yossi Lin, Rami Shalbi and Erez Shalev. So far, they have issued statements saying their clients deny the crime they have been accused of committing.

The protest rally in Haifa (Photo: Zohar Shahar)

Women and men protest complicity that allows women's murders

Hanan is one of 16 cases of domestic violence ending in the murder of a woman over the past six months. In response to the mounting cases, several women-led protests took place on Saturday, with the larger rallies taking place in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa. The participants cried out against the perceived lack of action taken by authorities to counter this trend and lower it. Hundreds of people arrived at Habima Sq. in Tel Aviv, 500 Arab and Jewish women and men arrived at Sefer Sq. in Haifa, and some 60 protestors arrived at Zion Sq. in Jerusalem. Protests were also held in Afula and the Galilee's Goma Junction.





Protest rally in Jerusalem (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky)

"We call on the Israeli government to convene an urgent meeting and act to found a national emergency plan to combat violence against women," the organizers of the Tel Aviv protest posted on Facebook.

From right: Peretz, Zandberg, Rozin and Hanin (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Several MKs also arrived at the Tel Aviv rally, including Amir Peretz (Zionist Union), Dov Hanin (Hadash), Tamar Rozin (Meretz) and Tamar Zandberg (Meretz).

Zandberg stated that "nothing in this country is as quietly accepted as the mass murders of women. We are now seeing a movement that's the first of its kind, of women who are not staying silent, but clearly stating that this isn't a fluke or a mistake, but a policy. A government plan that already exists remains for the time being only in writing, without being implemented. There are things to do, this isn't predetermined."
The United States, the Palestinian Authority, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel have recently been conducting secret negotiations to coordinate the first flight of Palestinian pilgrims from Ben Gurion airport to Saudi Arabia, with a short layover on the way, probably in Jordan.

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Yedioth Ahronoth, Ynet's sister print publication, learned of the intention to organize a special plane in which only Palestinian passengers between Israel and Saudi Arabia will be able to fly. Since there are no open relations between the two countries, the plane will have to land briefly in Amman. The Americans initiated the matter as a result of President Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Trump was the first to fly direct between the two countries (Photo: Reuters)

A senior Israeli source said the talks are already in advanced stages. He said the flight would be carried out through a foreign company that is neither Israeli nor Saudi. The Palestinians will be able to make pilgrimages to the holy places in Mecca and Medina. This is the closest to a direct flight that has yet to be offered.

Air Force One was actually the first plane to fly directly from Riyadh to Ben Gurion Airport, when President Donald Trump came on his first foreign trip.

Minister of Transport Yisrael Katz presented Trump's, Jason Greenblatt, his "railroad for regional peace" plan. The plan speaks of connecting Israel to Jordan and from it to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states in a network of railways that would give the Arab states access to the Mediterranean. Greenblatt was reportedly enthusiastic about the program.
The USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier will dock in Haifa Bay for the first time in 17 years as it heads back to the Syrian coast to take part in the air campaign against ISIS, the United States Navy said.

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The US Embassy in Tel Aviv, meanwhile, would not confirm or deny reports that the ship will dock in Israel for four days beginning on July 1.

The USS George H.W. Bush (: USS George H.W. Bush Facebook)

X

The Pentagon said the 333-meter-long Nimitz-class carrier was moved from the Arabian Gulf to the Eastern Mediterranean last month.

USS George H.W. Bush (Photo: US Navy)

The nuclear-powered ship, carrying a crew of 5,700 and 80 fighter planes, deployed from Norfolk, Va., on January 21 as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the US militarys effort to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria.

As part of that deployment the strike group spent more than two months in the US Central Command area of operations in the Arabian Gulf, from where it attacked ISIS targets in early March.

Later that month, Rear Admiral Kenneth Whitesell, the ships commander, said the carrier was harassed and threatened by about 20 armed Iranian vessels while passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Aircraft taking off from the deck of USS George H.W. Bush

Haifa served as a base for the US Sixth Fleet during the 1980s and 90s, but the Pentagon discontinued use of the coastal city in 2000 when the second intifada erupted.

Next months visit, which will include shore leave for most of the crew, is expected to inject millions of shekels into the local economy.

Due to the carrier's size, it will physically not be able to enter the Haifa port. In order to get the crew from the ship to the shore, ferries will shuttle the sailors to the port.

When the sailors arrive at the port, dozens of buses will be waiting to take them to Haifa or any other city in the country.
A building which is said to be the tomb of a prominent Ghanaian personality has alarmed many Ghanaians on social media.

Click here to get the latest news in Ghana.

READ ALSO: Was Barbara Mahama forced to wear a black veil at final funeral of Major Mahama in Tumu? (photo)

Kofi Ofosu, a social media user and a leading communicator of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), shared the photo of the building on Facebook on Sunday.

Ofosu claimed that the building was the tomb of the late mother of Dr Stephen Opuni, a former CEO of the Ghana COCOBOD.

He claimed that the building was situated at Babianiha in the Brong Ahafo Region.

YEN.com.gh could not immediately verify his claims.

The NPP communicator suggested that it was sad for such a building to have been used as tomb when, according to him, some people do not have places to sleep.

Dr Stephen Opuni

Isaac Owusu-Appiah, a social media user, who commented on Ofosu's photo, corroborated the NPP communicator's claim that the building was Opuni's mother's final resting place.

"Kofi, you haven't seen anything yet. I attended the funeral myself at Babianiha. He has built a whole village within that village. Looking at what he has done in that village, I can tell you Dr Opuni is super rich," he wrote.

Some Ghanaians who were shocked to learn that the building was a tomb, expressed displeasure at the development.

At least one social media user, however, defended the move, saying that every mother deserves a befitting burial.

Share your views on this with us in the comments section below.

YEN.com.gh publishes stories and tips from our readers. Send yours today and get featured on our site! We are on Facebook and can also be reached by email at info@YEN.com.gh.

READ ALSO: At long last, Nadia has unveiled the father of her twins and YEN.com.gh has photos

Source: YEN.com.gh
The #FakeNews no one talks about

Judith Bergman on "fake news"...

"In all the talk about 'fake news' Israel is missing an opportunity by not calling out the fakest of the fake news, namely the professed existence of a Palestinian Arab people.

Palestinian Arab officials themselves have admitted that the professed Palestinian identity is fake, an invention for the political and tactical purpose of defeating Israel.

In a 1977 interview with Dutch newspaper Trouw, PLO executive committee member Zahir Muhsein sai d: The Palestinian people does not exist. The creation of a Palestinian state is only a means for continuing our struggle against the state of Israel for our Arab unity. In reality today there is no difference between Jordanians, Palestinians, Syrians and Lebanese. Only for political and tactical reasons do we speak today about the existence of a Palestinian people, since Arab national interests demand that we posit the existence of a distinct Palestinian people to oppose Zionism".

Hamas Minister of the Interior and of National Security Fathi Hammad made it clear that nothing has changed since 1977. This is what Hammad said when he was interviewed on Al-Hekma TV in March 2012: Brothers, half of the Palestinians are Egyptians and the other half are Saudis. Who are the Palestinians? ... We are Egyptians

Why is the world - and parts of the Israeli establishment - obsessed with establishing a Palestinian Arab state, funnelling billions of taxpayer dollars into that enterprise, if the Palestinian Arabs themselves readily admit that their professed identity is fake? To begin with, the 'Palestine industry' has become a flourishing business that would put many people out of business if peace were to actually break out."

With all the talk about #FakeNews recently, there's one piece of #FakeNews that's been accepted as truth for the last 24 years, because the Israeli government was foolish enough to accept it. I saw this on Facebook:The reason the Israeli establishment accepted the existence of a 'Palestinian people' is that in 1993, Israel's Left saw the Messiah of 'Peace' and his name was 'Palestinian.' I've been railing about this stuff for years But most of the Israeli establishment - including our Prime Minister - won't admit this. If they admitted it, they'd also have to admit that there's no 'two state solution' and admitting that would be admitting that everything they've done for the past 24 years has been misguided and wrong. So the #FakeNews continues to be treated as real.Woe to those who cannot face the truth.

Labels: Binyamin Netanyahu, fake news, Fathi Hamad, Palestinian people, Palestinian state, PLO, two-state solution, Zionism
[June 19, 2017] Astronautics to Provide Connectivity Solution for Airbus Helicopters

Forward-fit communications system for multiple Airbus Helicopter platforms will enable complete digital connectivity Le BOURGET, France, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Astronautics Corporation of America announced that it will provide its newest connectivity platform, the Astronautics Air Ground Communications System (AGCS), to Airbus Helicopters as a connectivity solution for the original equipment manufacturer's production helicopters. Airbus Helicopters is the largest supplier of turbine helicopters to the rotorcraft market.



The Astronautics AGCS system consists of an airborne server, wireless communications module, remote media device, and ground server software creating a complete air-to-ground, modular data transmission system. The system is expected to qualify by the end of 2018. Airbus Helicopter operators will benefit in many ways from the AGCS, including: 1) secure protection of critical avionics from non-authorized access through implementation of a modern cybersecurity framework; 2) wireless access to operational and maintenance data in flight and on the ground; 3) capability to send and receive data through a variety of communication channels; and 4) the ability to store and retrieve hundreds of hours of operational data within the system.

"The Astronautics AGCS will provide Airbus Helicopters a connectivity solution designed specifically for helicopters with the latest certification regulations [Data Security CRI]," said Astronautics President Chad Cundiff. "Helicopter operators will realize enhanced operational and safety benefits through real-time data access. Plus, the AGCS' modular design and upgradeability will ensure the system can rapidly evolve to provide operators the latest, state-of-the-art digital innovation." To learn more about the AGCS and its capabilities, visit Astronautics at the Paris Air Show, Hall 4, Booth F18, June 19-22, or contact [email protected]. About Astronautics Corporation of America

Astronautics Corporation of America, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a global leader in the design, development and manufacture of avionics equipment and systems for the commercial and military aerospace industry. Key product areas include electronic primary flight displays, engine displays, mission computers, electronic flight bags, and certified servers for airborne applications. Services include system integration and custom software for critical applications. Since its founding in 1959, Astronautics has been providing tailored engineering solutions to help clients achieve mission success. For more: www.astronautics.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524608/Astronautics_Corporation_AirborneServer.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524610/Astronautics_Corporation_Logo.jpg



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EFFINGHAM -- The Altamont High School Student Council recently held a collection of items for the Pediatric Unit at HSHS St. Anthonys Memorial Hospital.

The student council made it a contest between clubs at the school, which the band won. The student council collected over 380 items including mini hand sanitizer, individual packs of Kleenex, coloring books and crayons.

The idea for the collection came from the IASC (Illinois Association of Student Council), which made collecting items for pediatric patients the State Convention's Service Project.

Teresa Lee, special education teacher and student council/senior class adviser at Altamont High School, said, The Altamont High School Student Council make community service a priority and we really enjoyed this service project. By contributing items and supplies for pediatric patients, we were able to donate locally to our own hospital. Usually the State Convention's Service Project is a donation to a cause not in our area. We are glad we were able to help out locally this school year.

Michael Wall, St. Anthonys Director of Philanthropy, shared the hospitals appreciation for the donation. We are truly grateful to the students of Altamont High School for their donation of items for our pediatric patients, he said. It is this spirit of giving that makes Effingham County a wonderful area in which to live. This generosity allows St. Anthonys to continue offering our healing ministry to the region, as we have for over 140 years.

HSHS St. Anthonys Foundation is the fundraising organization of St. Anthonys and was established to ensure the continuing growth, stability and future of health care in this region. For more information about the HSHS St. Anthonys Foundation, contact Wall at 217- 347-1854, or email Michael.Wall@hshs.org, or visit St. Anthonys Web site at stanthonyshospital.org.
Lego Club scheduled at Charleston library

CHARLESTON -- Charleston Carnegie Public Librarys monthly Lego Club will be held from 4-5:15 p.m. Wednesday in Rotary Room A for grades K-8. Kids under 8 should attend with a parent or guardian.

Build together, take on challenges, and show off building skills. Builders will have the opportunity to show their creations from 5-5:15 p.m. to admire everyones skill and imagination. All Legos are provided.

This free program is open to the public. A library card is not needed to attend. For further information, call 217-345-1514 or visit www.charlestonlibrary.org.

Righter to host free senior health fair

CHARLESTON -- State Sen. Dale Righter, R-Mattoon, is encouraging senior citizens to come to his free Senior Health Fair on Wednesday at the Lifespan Center, 11021 E Co Rd 800 N. The event runs from 9-11 a.m.

I encourage any senior to come out and learn about alternative ways to lead a happier and healthier life, Righter said. You never know when a simple test or simple decision to change your health habits could make all the difference in your quality of life or extending your life. I want to thank all our vendors and health experts who are coming for our event.

At Righters free Senior Health Fair, various vendors and health professionals will offer health screenings, blood pressure checks, and blood glucose tests. Vendors will also discuss programs that benefit seniors and legislative brochures will be available.

Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System officials are also reminding area residents about their Peace Meal Senior Nutrition Program. To learn about eligibility, cost, and what is served, call 217-345-1800 or visit www.sarahbush.org/peacemeal.

Casey-Westfield Alumni Association to hold meeting, cookout

CASEY -- The Casey-Westfield Alumni Association will meet at 6:30 Thursday at the Methodist Church. All alumni are welcome.

Casey-Westfield's Alumni Association will also host a ribeye sandwich cookout at the Casey IGA from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday.
Mark Fahleson of Rembolt Ludtke LLP was recognized in Chambers USA 2017 for Labor & Employment - Nebraska Band 1. The publication ranks the leading lawyers and law firms in each state. Fahleson was recognized for attracting praise from commentators within his clients' market and for his ability to represent his clients "fairly and tenaciously". He is held in high regard for defending employers against discrimination claims and for his experience providing preventive counsel.

Chambers USA guides are the culmination of thousands of in-depth interviews by the largest research team of its kind and are trusted globally to objectively rank the world's best lawyers and law firms.

Founded in 1970, Rembolt Ludtke LLP serves a wide spectrum of clients, including industries, individuals and public entities, throughout Nebraska and the Great Plains region. The firm's diversified practice represents clients among such areas as corporate and business law, employment law, estate planning and probate, intellectual property, real estate, banking and finance, water and natural resources law, government law, domestic law, wrongful death and civil litigation. The firm operates offices in Lincoln and Seward. Visit RemboltLawFirm.com, and follow @RemboltLaw on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Lincoln Industries is pleased to announce the selection of Wally Wilkins as quality technician. In this role, Wilkins will ensure that the unique needs of each customer is integrated into our operation. He will lead customer-centered quality improvements, drive root cause analysis of issues, and be responsible for quality testing and inspection, all to ensure the customer has the best possible experience.

Wilkins joins Lincoln Industries after spending the last 20 years in the manufacturing industry serving in different technical and customer service functions. His background will help Lincoln Industries continue to ensure the customer needs are ingrained into the fabric of the organization. With over 65 years of experience, Lincoln Industries is the largest and most diverse privately held metal finishing company in North America and one of the state's largest manufacturers.

Using expertise in finishing, manufacturing, customer relations, quality, supply chain management, and innovation Lincoln Industries makes great brands such as Harley-Davidson, Peterbilt, Kenworth, John Deere, Polaris, Navistar, Mercury Marine, Khrome Werks, and Lincoln Chrome better.
Swanson Russell received 15 awards in the national Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association (TOCA) Communications Awards Contest, held during the organization's annual meeting on May 4 in Tampa, Florida. Swanson Russell's six first-place awards were for the following clients in six categories: Cushman, Best Photograph for Marketing Purposes; Cushman, Digital Website Design; Rain Bird, Special Writing Project; Site One Landscape Supply, Best Instructional Video/DVD; Vista Pro, Writing for Printed Newsletters; Vista Pro, Printed Magazine Ad Less than One Page.

Additionally, the agency received nine merit awards for the following clients in eight categories: Britt & Stratton, writing for a News Release; Cushman, Design in Digital Media (Non-website); EC Grow, Best Instructional Video/DVD; E-Z Go Testron, Best Photograph; Koch Industries, Copywriting for a Display Ad; Propane Education and Research Council, Best Long Video/DVD; Rain Bird, Writing for a News Release; Rain Bird, Best Integrated Marketing Campaign; Site One Landscape Supply, Most Engaging Social Media Campaign.

"We work diligently to produce exemplary work for our clients, and we're honored to be recognized for our efforts," said Brian Boesche, partner and chief creative officer at Swanson Russell. "I commend our account teams and clients for collaborating on these award-winning projects. By working together, we're able to develop communications tools that forge lasting connections between brands and their audiences."

The TOCA Communications recognize outstanding green industry communications in the categories of writing, design, photography, videography and interactive. For mor information about TOCA, visit www.toca.org.

Founded in 1962, Swanson Russell is a Nebraska-based marketing communications firm with offices in Lincoln and Omaha. In addition to working with local and regional clients, the full-service agency is nationally recognized for expertise in agriculture, health care, outdoor recreation, construction and the green industry. For more information about Swanson Russell's Real Connection approach to advertising, public relations and interactive and branding services, visit www.swansonrussell.com.
Since John Milligan took over as the CEO of Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ: GILD) roughly one year ago, the biotech's shares have steadily marched lower to the tune of a 24% decline. And one of the biggest reasons why is Milligan's decision to invest heavily in share repurchases and forgo a large acquisition -- or a series of smaller acquisitions -- to bring in some much-needed revenue.
Amigos announced Monday that it is now an employee-owned company.

Roger and Janice Moore, who have owned the Lincoln-based Mexican fast-food chain since opening the first restaurant in 1980, said in a news release that they have launched an employee stock ownership plan and transferred 100 percent of the ownership of the business to its employees.

In researching succession plan options, an ESOP seemed like the right fit for our company, Roger Moore said in the news release.

In an ESOP, a company creates a trust into which it contributes shares of the company, which can either be allocated to employees by a formula or bought with cash. In the case of Amigos, all eligible employees will earn a yearly allocation of stock. This is designed as a long-term retirement benefit, with the employees accounts increasing as the value of the business increases.

The company said in its news release that the move to an ESOP will not affect management, and Roger Moore will remain as president of the company.

Amigos has 27 restaurants, all of which are in Nebraska. The ESOP will cover the 18 locations that are company-owned, while nine franchised locations will remain independently owned.
A 25-year-old getaway driver in a robbery that left a Lincoln man dead and another wounded last year apologized Monday before learning his sentence.

"There's stuff I would do different if I could," Terique Jackson said, facing Christopher Coleman's relatives behind him.

Defense attorney Tim Noerrlinger argued for probation, calling it a best-interest plea, saying that while Jackson did drive the suspected shooter and another man to Christopher Coleman's house on April 18, 2016, the day of the killing, he wasn't aware of what they had planned.

That afternoon, police went to 1966 Euclid Ave. on a call about gunshots and found Coleman, 32, shot dead just inside the doorway and Jerry Griffis, 21, in the kitchen suffering from gunshots that left him paralyzed.

A dog also had been shot to death.

At Jackson's plea hearing, Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Dan Packard said Jackson had driven the shooter and another man there, the shooter showing them both the .45 caliber gun he had with him, and got a share of the money and marijuana taken in the robbery.

Nearly two months after the crime, police in Aurora, Colorado, arrested Jackson on Lancaster County warrants.

He ultimately pleaded no contest to aiding and abetting terroristic threats and being an accessory to robbery, first-degree assault or burglary.

At the time of the crime, he was awaiting sentencing for being the getaway driver in an armed, home-invasion robbery in May 2015 at a townhouse near 27th Street and Yankee Hill Road.

Jackson is at the Omaha Correctional Center serving 20 months to five years for terroristic threats for it.

On Monday, Packard said the actions of Jackson and others in the latest case will have an effect on Coleman's children forever.

Lancaster County District Judge John Colborn said he couldn't ignore the seriousness of the crime and the terrible consequences. And he sentenced Jackson to six years in prison, the most he could under the plea agreement.

Three others charged in connection to the Coleman killing, including 18-year-old Markel Steele -- the accused shooter -- are awaiting trial.
A University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor facing nine drug possession charges in connection to a steroid investigation got pre-trial diversion Monday, according to court records.

The case against Jeffrey McCray, 43, will be dismissed if he completes it successfully.

In an affidavit for his arrest, Lincoln police said the music professor was using and selling anabolic steroids for bodybuilding competitions.

Last September, investigators acting on a tip searched the trash at his residence, and found used syringes, paperwork and shipment boxes from China, Israel and Florida, police said.

When they talked to him in December, McCray admitted he used steroids and turned over about 40 vials. He told investigators he had been using the muscle-enhancing drugs for about 15 years and also sold to others during that time, the document says.

McCray is listed on UNL's website as an associate professor at the Glenn Korff School of Music.
Lincoln police are investigating a Texas man's death in a north Lincoln motel where officers were called early Sunday.

Police Chief Jeff Bliemeister said Jose Torres, 23, shot himself after officers were summoned to the Oasis Inn, 5250 Cornhusker Highway, at 12:44 a.m.

A motel employee called police to say a man had pointed a handgun at two people in a room.

The door to the room was open when officers arrived, Bliemeister said on Monday. Officers could see Torres with a gun and two children, ages 6 and 15, ran out of the room before Torres slammed the door closed and a shot was heard, police said.

Four other people remained in the room, including Torres' girlfriend and a 3-year-old child, according to Bliemeister.

The four officers on the scene acted appropriately, the chief said, and immediately worked to secure the area and begin life-saving efforts.

Bleimeister said alcohol may have been a contributing factor in Torres' death. Police said the man was in town with a 53-year-old acquaintance doing contract work when his family came to visit.

Bliemeister said the officers did not fire any shots and there was no physical altercation.

County Attorney Joe Kelly said his office will review reports to determine if a grand jury will be convened to look into the death of the man, as is required by Nebraska law whenever someone dies while in custody or while being apprehended.
An inmate at the Lincoln Correctional Center assaulted two staff members Monday morning.

As the staff members were escorting the inmate, who was agitated, to a holding cell, he struck one staff member several times in the face and hit the other in the head, officials said.

The staff members used pepper spray and physical force to subdue the inmate at about 7:30 a.m., according to a news release from the Department of Corrections.

Each staff member was checked at the hospital, where one received stitches for a cut above the eye. The other employee had no notable injuries.
OMAHA  Authorities say two volunteer firefighters were injured when their firetruck rolled on the way to a blaze.

The accident happened around 5 p.m. Sunday in northwest Omaha. Waterloo Fire Chief Travis Harlow said water sloshing in the back of the truck may have given it momentum to roll as it turned a corner. The truck was headed to a fire at the Douglas County landfill.
The air on Scottsbluffs southeastern side has long carried a wide array of aromas.

On certain mornings, the smell of roasting chicory wafts through the neighborhood known as East Overland. On other days, its the scent of sweet burning cigarettes or Tootsie Rolls from a factory that processes sugar beets.

But east winds this fall and spring have often carried an unpleasant bouquet with a mysterious source.

Sometimes it smells a lot like dog feces around here, said Rev. Jonathon Sorensen of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. It was really, really bad this past fall. Very strong ... I would walk out of the church at the end of mass and it would just hit you.

Astrid Munn, a Scottsbluff attorney who grew up in the neighborhood, said on the worst days the smell was acrid and one rung below burning.

It will knock the wind out of you, she said.

Some community members pointed to a wastewater evaporation pond at the Western Sugar Co-op, a century-old facility where beets harvested each autumn get weighed, sampled, chopped and turned into sugar.

But Western Sugar Vice President Heather Luther, who is based in Denver, says the pond has been unjustly besmirched.

We had our team go out and walk the facility to see if there were any odor issues, and were fairly confident the odor is not coming from our site. We think it is probably attributed to other ponds in the area of other landowners, Luther said.

The Panhandle Public Health District has received at least one complaint about the smell and passed that information on to the state Department of Environmental Quality, said Health District Director Kim Engel.

The state has not investigated the odor because it has not received a direct complaint from a resident, spokesman Brian McManus said. NDEQ does not regulate odors, but does regulate certain chemicals that have odors.

A NDEQ inspector noted odor in the area of the pond while investigating an unrelated spill in which the wall of a different holding pond breached, allowing muddy water full of calcium carbonate to spill into ditches that discharge into the North Platte River, McManus said.

Smelly or not, the ponds days are numbered. Western Sugar is working on plans to update its wastewater treatment system, which includes removing the pond, to meet requirements of its discharge permit, said NDEQ section supervisor Reuel Anderson.

Anderson said removal of the pond has nothing to do with how it smells. No deadlines have been set for removal, although informal discussions have pointed to next spring.

Scottbluff Mayor Randy Meininger and Scotts Bluff County Commissioner Mark Reichert, who represents the area where the Western Sugar facility is located, both said they havent gotten complaints about the smell.

Odor, they said, is a part of life in an agriculture state.

Our entire region is cattle and farming and the sugar factory and chicory. To isolate one industry out, I would not have the expertise to answer that question, Meininger said.

Ive lived here all my life. I dont know if there is more smells one way or the other.
From the time she was 15 years old, Katie McLeese Stephenson knew she wanted to be a social worker. She began working with children and youth in high school and college and graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University and the University of Nebraska Omaha, earning a masters degree in social work.

She has worked with children and families in various positions for the last 30-plus years, including employment with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and Cedars Youth Services. She also completed a term (2011-2015) on the Lincoln Public Schools board of education. Most recently, she served as the statewide director of the Nebraska Court Improvement Project, focusing on child welfare and juvenile justice.

Serving the community in which she grew up is important to McLeese Stephenson, as is her passion for children and families.

When she was 8 years old, she moved to Lincoln with her family and attended Morley Elementary and graduated from East High School. McLeese Stephenson and her husband, Rhett, have 18- and 20-year-old sons.

Nearly a year ago, McLeese Stephenson stepped into what she considers her dream job, as executive director of the Child Guidance Center in Lincoln, an organization that has provided mental health services to children and their families since 1949. She believes it fit well with her skill set and areas of expertise. It was something she wanted to be part of.

The position involved serving children and families in a community-based setting with an organization that has a strong clinical reputation, McLeese Stephenson says. And, it has an excellent staff who have devoted their careers to the community and the agency.

The Child Guidance Center began as a partnership between the Junior League of Lincoln and the Community Chest, a precursor to todays United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County.

The founders identified a need for services to help nervous children, McLeese Stephenson says. We have grown over the years to meet the changing mental health needs in the community. All of our programs saw an increase in participation during the last fiscal year. We served more than 2,000 children and families, and we have a waiting list for all of our services.

We do not deny services based on the ability to pay, she adds. Thats really important to us. Were seeing more and more of a need.

With a staff of 90 and an annual $5 million operating budget, the Child Guidance Center offers outpatient therapy, outpatient services for in-need and at-risk youth in 13 public schools, extended-day treatment programs, therapeutic consultation at two LPS behavioral skills programs, therapeutic services at the Youth Assessment Center and a therapeutic group home for adolescent males who have experienced trauma.

The group home, for boys ages 12 to 18, celebrates its 25th year in the community.

In the group home setting, these boys learn to cope and to behave differently, McLeese Stephenson says. Our goal is to help young men work through issues, be healthy themselves and have healthy relationships with others to break the cycle of abuse. In the group home, they have structure, supervision and therapy provided by caring professionals. The youth also give back to the community.

McLeese Stephenson says the Child Guidance Center is proud of its long-standing reputation as an agency at the forefront of best practices. It offers help for youth and their families who struggle with depression and anxiety, suicidal ideations or attempts, sexual identification and orientation issues, neglect, poverty, physical and sexual abuse and those at risk of or experiencing substance use disorders.

We really see the gamut of issues, and we help by providing trauma-informed care, she says. Many, if not all, of our clients have experienced some type of trauma such as divorce, abuse, gun violence, domestic violence. That trauma changes the brain chemistry, and it changes the way people respond to the world.

While treating the youth and getting to the root of the issue is the primary focus, McLeese Stephenson says the family plays a pivotal role in the treatment and healing process, and staff members implement strategies that can be employed at home.

I firmly believe all parents want to do a good job, she says. Part of our job is to help parents understand there is a different way to interact with and support their child.

As she reflects on the agencys work during the past year, McLeese Stephenson acknowledges the challenges and the rewards.

The challenges include the needs exceeding the available resources, the implementation of Heritage Health with three new Medicaid Managed Care organizations and trying to increase community awareness.

Its important for people to know that mental health issues are common and assistance is available, she says. Theres often fear and stigma related to mental health. Its important for families to talk about it and get help. Its lonely for parents. Its hard to know how to help the children they love so much.

The joys reveal themselves when children get the help they need. I love seeing children as they find hope and healing, seeing a bounce in their step. They feel they can trust and that someone believes in them.

As McLeese Stephensons first year comes to a close, she credits a talented and dedicated staff, collaborations with community partnerships and a strong and involved board of directors.

Jennifer Carter, serving her fourth year on the board, is president of the Child Guidance Center board of directors. An attorney by training and a consultant, she feels strongly about the role the center plays in the community.

The Child Guidance Center provides an essential service for families, Carter says. What they do is so critically important. Its the place people take their children when they dont know where to turn. But all of us in the city of Lincoln benefit from their work with childrens mental health issues. Serving 2,000 children and families in a year contributes to the overall health of our community.

Carter appreciates the fact the center doesnt turn people away because of their inability to pay.

With recent changes to Medicaid, the Child Guidance Centers work becomes even more and more critical, she says. People are struggling to get the help they need. And the center is there.

Carter describes executive director McLeese Stephenson as proactive and a problem-solver who cares deeply for children and families.

Im excited for the future under her leadership, Carter says.

McLeese Stephenson, too, looks forward to her second year as executive director of the Child Guidance Center.

I want to be mindful of the strong, rich tradition of this organization, she says. But I look toward the future and to new ideas and opportunities.

Weve been a part of Lincoln 68 years, and a lot of people dont know about us, McLeese Stephenson adds. Im looking forward to sharing with the community the resources we offer and how we can help strengthen children and families in the community.
RACINE COUNTY  Natalia Taft awoke Nov. 9 feeling physically ill.

Donald Trump had captured the election the night before in stunning fashion  thrilling his supporters while leaving detractors like Taft looking for ways to work against him.

In the months since the election, Racine-area liberal activists say they have seen a surge of new faces and grassroots movement in opposition to Trump's presidency.

Along with a few others, Taft formed a group called Forward Racine. It has staged some events, including protests and a fundraiser for Planned Parenthood, and helps connect like-minded people on social media.

They join other groups, like the Racine Interfaith Coalition and Voces de la Frontera, that have also made their presence felt in the last several months. Demonstrations have been a common occurrence at House Speaker Paul Ryan's Racine office and outside Ryan appearances in the area; an anti-Ryan "town hall" event in Kemosha drew nearly 300 people in April.

"I think a lot of people were ... kind of shocked and were looking for something to do" in the aftermath of the election, Taft said.

Republicans are quick to note the tactics seen in recent months seem similar to the massive 2011 protests and mobilization over Gov. Scott Walker's Act 10 proposal.

They also note Walker and most other Republicans ultimately held onto their positions and are even more emboldened than before. Walker, in fact, got a larger national profile that he later used to launch a presidential campaign.

While the next round of elections in 2018 will be the ultimate measure of success, Taft and others say they have seen some early victories, like slowing down the effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act.

Health care and immigration, in particular, have fueled grassroots movement and call-in campaigns to pressure members of Congress.

"There's a lot more participation and awareness of issues," Taft said. "A lot of people are just paying more attention."

In addition to advocacy groups' growth, the Democratic Party of Racine County has seen an influx of new members join since November, Chairwoman Meg Andrietsch said.

"We've got lots of people who for one reason or another decided to get on board and help with the party. There's also lots of people who don't want to join the party but recognize that something needs to be done, so they're active in some of these other groups," Andrietsch said, adding the party is friendly with those groups.

Andrietsch noted Emerge Wisconsin, which recruits and trains Democratic women to run for political office, has also seen a surge of interest. When 2018 campaigns begin in earnest, Democrats will turn to candidates they hope will stem the tide of Republican victories, which have been plentiful in Wisconsin since 2010.

"You just have to keep working and trying and finding candidates who are willing to run and help them run good campaigns," Andrietsch said, adding she is "very hopeful for next year, both spring and fall" elections.

Conservatives are skeptical

In addition to large protests being nothing new in Wisconsin, Republicans say the state continued to trend red in 2016 despite what many believed would be a favorable year for Democrats. Twenty-two counties flipped from blue to red in 2016 compared to 2012, according to the state Republican Party.

Meanwhile, Republican activists are equally gearing up for 2018 and see opportunities for even more gains, a state GOP spokesman said.

"With historic victories across the state, congressional districts trending red and deep legislative majorities, it's clear voters are seeing how Republicans are fighting for them," spokesman Alec Zimmerman said. "Meanwhile, Wisconsin Democrats are in totally disarray after crushing defeats in 2016, with nothing left to offer but the same failed antics and policies of yesterday."
RACINE  Lightning and straight-line winds may be to blame for damaged properties in the City of Racine Monday.

Two dozen We Energies customers were without power in the 1200 block of Grand Avenue about 2:45 p.m. after two residents said lightning struck a power pole behind their homes.

Resident Julio Quroz said he was inside and saw what he described as a flash from his neighbors backyard right before the power went out.

I saw a spark and I looked. The (electrical) box was melting from the fire, Quroz said. The main cable that brings the power into the house is burned out. It grounded at the box on the side of the house.

Quroz said he was surprised by how hot the fire was.

The lightning melted the aluminum, Quroz said.

Quroz and his neighbor called 911 and the Racine Fire Department came out to put out the fire in the electrical box. Both We Energies and the Racine Fire Department said the incident is under investigation. No one was injured, but power was knocked out and now residents fear the damage to the wiring of the adjacent houses where the fire occurred may be a problem.

The fire was from the inside out, Quroz said. I told my neighbor she needs to get on the phone with the insurance company right away.

Straight-line winds

The lightning came with a short cloud burst of heavy rain. About the same time a couple of blocks away, Racine police responded to a wind event causing damage.

The top layer of the roof peeled off of a building at 855 Washington Ave. It was hanging off the back of a vacant building. The owner could not be reached for comment.

The National Weather Service reported at 2:50 p.m. that a weather buoy in Racine measured a wind gust of 55 mph. Ben Miller, a meteorologist at NWS, said straight-line winds of 40 mph were also reported at that time as the short-lived storm moved through.

For the gusts they were there and its gone. They were moving real fast but there wasnt a lot to them, Miller said.

Both Waukesha and Walworth residents reported 1-inch hail in some spots which managed to miss Racine County, according to Miller.

At the storms height in Racine County, about 137 We Energies customers lost power Monday afternoon.
MOUNT PLEASANT  An Illinois man was arrested early Saturday morning for reportedly urinating on a fence outside of a bar.

Leonard Larry, 29, of North Chicago, faces misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and obstructing an officer, as a result of the alleged incident.

Officers who were monitoring traffic at Racine Street and 22nd Street just after 2 a.m. on Saturday reportedly witnessed Larry exit the On the Level bar, 2139 Racine St.

Larry then allegedly urinated on an outdoor fence that serves as a smoking barrier. The area is well-lit and visible even at night from traffic and residential houses, the report said.

Officers reportedly approached Larry and informed him he could not urinate on the street in public and asked his name. Larry allegedly told the officers his name was James Jones, born on Dec. 5, 1987. Larry later admitted his real name after officers discovered there was no James Jones with that birthday on record, the report said.

Dispatchers then reportedly alerted the officers that Larry had a probation warrant, so the officers took him into custody.
As Republican Gov. Scott Walker looks to screen public-aid recipients for drug use, a Fitchburg Democratic lawmaker wants to extend the requirement to those with a stake in businesses getting state loans or grants.

First-term Rep. Jimmy Anderson, D-Fitchburg, is authoring Assembly Bill 385, which was introduced last week. Its Senate sponsor is LaTonya Johnson, D-Milwaukee.

The bill would apply drug screening requirements to top officials at businesses that get economic development aid through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. The agency administers a range of programs that include giving loans, tax credits or grants to businesses that create jobs in Wisconsin.

Anderson described his proposal as tongue in cheek, in a certain way. But its meant to respond to what Anderson calls a serious problem: Walkers broad-ranging proposals to apply drug-testing requirements to recipients of public programs including Medicaid, unemployment and food stamps.

If Walker and legislative Republicans want to impose such requirements for poor people, then we should hold individuals at the other end of the economic spectrum equally accountable, Anderson said.

Walker is using this opportunity to denigrate poor folks for no good reason, Anderson added.

Under Andersons bill, owners, officers, managers, partners and other officials at such businesses would be subject to a drug-screening process similar to the one that applies to other public-benefit recipients.

Applicants complete an initial screening, such as a questionnaire, and if those results provide a reasonable suspicion they are abusing a controlled substance, they would have to undergo a drug test. A positive drug test would require the recipient to agree to undergo drug treatment in order to maintain access to state aid.

The Walker administration earlier this month asked President Donald Trumps administration to let Wisconsin become the first state to require drug screening for poor, childless adults seeking Medicaid coverage through the states BadgerCare program.

And last year the Walker administration approved a rule implementing drug screening requirements for those seeking unemployment benefits.
Randy Bryce, a Racine-area ironworker and Democratic political activist, will seek his partys nod to unseat Republican U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan in 2018.

Bryce made the announcement Monday morning.

A Wall Street Journal report this month said Bryce, of Caledonia, has enlisted staff members including Bill Hyers, a Barack Obama alumnus who ran upset campaigns for New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

Bryce previously ran and lost bids for state Senate in 2014 and state Assembly in 2012.

He is political coordinator of Ironworkers Local 8 and actively fought recent measures such as the 2011 Act 10 collective bargaining changes for public workers and the 2015 measure that supporters call a right-to-work law, which allows workers to opt out of financially supporting private-sector unions.

David Yankovich, a Democratic political activist from Ohio, announced last month that he has moved to Wisconsin to run against Ryan.

A Republican, Paul Nehlen, also has indicated he will again oppose Ryan in the GOP primary.

Any Democratic nominee will face an uphill climb in Wisconsins 1st Congressional District, which Ryan has represented since 1999. The district covers southeastern Wisconsin along the Illinois border, including Janesville, Racine, Kenosha and parts of southern Waukesha and Milwaukee counties.
AIIB promises huge investments in Nepal's six projects

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is to invest hugely in Nepal's six projects.
Air quality action plan for Kathmandu soon

The government is preparing an action plan to tackle air pollution in Kathmandu Valley.
Candidacies filed despite protests

The candidate nomination process for the second phase of local level elections concluded on Sunday amid a general strike announced by the Sanghiya Gathabandhan across the plains.
Fugitive trafficker sent behind bars

The Central Investigation Bureau arrested an absconding trafficker from Chitwan on Saturday.
Ginger farmers in peril, fail to diversify exports

Inability to diversify gingers export market has left farmers in the eastern region at the mercy of India, where prices fluctuate rampantly.
Govt plans week-long programme

The government is planning to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by organising various programmes for a week across the country.
Govt to observe third Int Day of Yoga on June 21

Government is set to mark the third International Day of Yoga on June 21 nation-wide with several programmes with an objective to highlight the significance of yoga to human health.
Kanti Highway finally getting blacktopped

Nearly six decades after the highway connecting Kathmandu with Hetauda and Birjung was constructed, it is finally getting blacktopped. The highway called Kanti Highway, saw the process of blacktopping the road begin on Saturday after completing an upgradation task.
Massive fire destroys Yeti Carpet factory

A massive fire broke out at the factory of Yeti Carpet in Itapa of Bhaktapur Municipality-2 on Saturday night, causing huge destruction of properties.
Nepal shows solidarity with refugees

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), its partners and Nepalis across the country are standing with refugees and celebrating World Refugee Day.
People of all political orientation in Province 2 want elections

In a bid to bring the agitating Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal (RJP-N) on board the election process, the government last week decided to postpone the local level polls in Province 2 for September 18.
PM Deuba sets foot in Baluwatar

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has moved to Baluwatar, the Prime Minister's official residence, from his private residence in Budhanilkantha early this morning after offering a special Pooja as per the suggestions of astrologers.
PM expresses condolence on Kohl's demise

Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has sent a condolence message to Chancellor of the Federal Democratic Republic of Germany, Mrs. Angela Merkel, on the demise of Mr. Helmut Kohl, the former Chancellor of the Federal Democratic Republic of Germany.
Polls undemocratic, say RJP-N leaders

Leaders of the Rastriya Janata Party-Nepal (RJP-N) have dubbed the second phase of local level elections slated for June 28 as a mere drama.
Production of all male fry tilapia begins in Chitwan

Agriculture and Forestry University of Rampur, Chitwan has started commercial production of all-male fry of tilapia fish for the first time in Nepal.
RJP-N, CPN cadres in fray as independents

Two parties protesting against the local level electionsRastriya Janata Party-Nepal and the Netra Bikram Chand-led Communist Party of Nepalhave fielded their cadres as independent candidates.
Sporadic clashes in Tarai but candidates unfazed

Nine persons were injured when a bomb went off near the office of the election officer at Vadganga Municipality in Kapilvastu district on Sunday afternoon as the candidates were preparing to file nominations for the second phase of local level elections.
Who is lying?

The government claimed that its decision on June 15 to postpone the local level elections in Province 2 to September 18 was taken in accordance with an agreement or understanding with the Rastriya Janata Party (RJP-N).
By Benjamin Jumbe

The international community has been challenged to do more to support Ugandas efforts in hosting refugees.

The call is made by the US ambassador to Uganda H.E Deborah Malac as the country continues to register an influx of refugees with the figure now standing at over 1.6m.

Ambassador Malac says while US remains the single country with the largest humanitarian assistance globally, it cannot continue to bear the burden alone.

She challenges other countries to come in and offer support to Ugandas efforts to resettle thousands of refugees that have been displaced by conflict.

This comes as the country prepares to host the refugee solidarity summit later this week.
By Frederic Musisi

The Inspector General of Police, Gen Kale Kayihura has for the first time in over a fortnight spoken out about his health saying the numerous questions about his health show that Ugandans care about him.

Speaking to Daily Monitor in a telephone interview from the Turkish capital Ankara over the weekend, Kayihura said he was touched that people were actually concerned about his life, and reassured the public that he is in perfect health.

When asked on Saturday whether he had been indisposed as reprted, Gen Kayihura said he would provide details upon his return on Monday. Am on business here (in Turkey), but i will grant interviews when i am back, he said.

Speculation about General Kayihuras health began swirling after he missed attending two key national events; The Presidents June 6th State Of The Nation Address and the subsequent reading of the national budget.

The police chiefs last public appearance was at a security meeting chaired by President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe on May 31st

On June 12th, the Uganda Police Force issued a statement titled alleged sickness of IGP refuting the speculation and said Gen Kayihura was in very good health and the country should not be alarmed.

These are complete false stories invented by people with fertile imaginations. There is no iota of truth in these stories, reads the statement by police spokesperson Asan Kasingye. He promised that the police chief would return to the country last but he didnt fuelling further speculation about the state of his health.
By Ruth Anderah

A man who accuses a Bishop of stealing and eating his genitals has further been remanded to Luzira prison by the Makindye Chief Magistrates Court.

Joseph Mukasa Kato accuses Bishop Patrick Makumbi of Gospel Healing Centre Lweza of being a fraudster who concocts miracles.

Grade One Magistrate Allan Gakyaalo has now fixed Katos case for hearing for 6th July 2017 and ordered Bishop Makumbi to come along with his witnesses.

On 5th June 2017, Mukasa a resident of Kalagala in Kiboga district was charged with defamation of the Bishop, a charge he has since denied.

Prosecution led by Happiness Ainebyona states that between February and March 2017 while speaking on various local Radio and Television stations within Kampala, Mukasa uttered statements to the effect that Bishop Makumbi had stolen and eaten his genitals.

These statements, according to prosecution were made with an intention of ridiculing and defaming the profession of Bishop Makumbi within the minds of right thinking members of society.

Kato has had no sureties to stand for him and this left no choice for the presiding magistrate but to further remand him until 6th July 2017.

Katos relatives had declared him missing 2 weeks ago only to learn that he had been sent to jail over defamation.
By Samuel Ssebuliba

The police force has warned a section of late Assistant Inspector General of Police Andrew Felix Kaweesis family against meddling in its investigations into the murder case.

According to police, a section of the late Kaweesis family continues pointing an accusing finger at some senior police officers linking them to the murder.

Addressing the media earlier today, Assan Kasingye the police spokesperson said it was wrong for family members to claim that police arrested the wrong people because due diligence was done before arrests were effected.

He has instead asked the family members to join police in the hunt for Kaweesis killers instead of trashing the progress made so far with the investigations.

The late Assistant Inspector General of Police Andrew Felix Kaweesi was gunned down by unknown assailants on March 17th and since then several arrests have been made in connection to the murder.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 56F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies in the evening, then becoming cloudy overnight. Low 31F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.
Emily Purdom remembers crawling out of bed at 5 a.m. the first time she tried out the technology that would become her lifes focus. The Missouri-based childrens speech-language pathologist had an early-morning appointment with a new patient.

The catch? The patient was in Thailand. The session would take place through an online video platform.

I knew that telepractice was an emerging model at the time, said Purdom. But I didnt know much beyond that.

The intercontinental therapy session left an impression on Purdom: She was able to have meaningful face-to-face interactions with a family and child in need, despite being thousands of miles apart. It was an experience that planted the seeds of DotCom Therapy, the tech company she founded with fellow speech therapist Rachel Robinson.

The Madison-based startup has built a web-based videoconferencing platform, like Skype, specifically for linking professionals to schools that need speech therapists, occupational therapists and mental health specialists, helping children with speech, play, motor skills, emotional health, mental health, or other developmental issues.

DotCom Therapy only recently moved to Madison from Springfield, Missouri, but has quickly made a name for itself: Earlier this month, it received a first-place award among IT companies in the Governors Business Plan competition.

Purdom and Robinson say teletherapy can solve some big problems in the realm of education. Schools across the country are staring down a significant shortage when it comes to special needs staffing. The National Association of School Psychologists projects a shortage of 15,000 to 20,000 therapists in U.S. schools by 2020.

In some parts of rural Wisconsin, social workers are the only resource that some children and families have when it comes to addressing mental health or developmental problems. As speech pathologists in Missouri, Purdom and Robinson, would often travel for three or four hours to meet with children in remote locations.

In a traditional brick and mortar format, therapists are struggling to meet the demand, said Purdom.

Not only does teletherapy remove geographical barriers, but research supports the idea that therapy online can be as effective as in-person counseling. Plus, said Purdom, shes found that children seem to especially attracted to using the technology.

Thats been the biggest surprise, she said. Were coming to them in a format thats familiar. Whether it be on a tablet or an iPad or a smartboard, were capturing their attention.

After the two created an earlier version of DotCom Therapy, Purdom and Robinson decided to test out their technological solution where they saw the most urgent need: in rural Alaskan communities off the Bering Strait. To access the communities in the flesh, Purdom and Robinson would travel via bush plane and snowmobile. To access them online, it was a matter of a few mouse-clicks.

Some of the buildings we were working in  they didnt have running water, but they did have WiFi, said Robinson.

The company has come a long ways since those early experiments. While Purdom and Robinson said they cant say how many districts or schools they partner with for reasons of confidentiality, they say theyre operating in 18 states, and facilitated 50,000 sessions this past school year.

The company also wouldnt disclose how many therapists they have in their network, although Purdom said it the figure was rapidly growing.

Purdom and Robinson decided to move to Madison earlier this year in part because they had hired senior officers  chief operating officer Correll Lashbrook and chief executive officer Jay Handy  who lived in the city.

Plus, they say Madisons scene is simply a healthy place for a tech company to set up shop.

In Springfield, there was a small bubble of startups, but there wasnt the energy and support we found here in Madison, said Robinson. It was a pretty easy sell  especially after we drove in and saw John Nolen (Drive) and saw the lakes.

Robinson and Purdom said that their platform is in a good place, and their focus now is on marketing and expanding their network.
The managing director of the International Monetary Fund urged global policymakers to stop inflation from becoming a runaway train at a time of extraordinary economic turmoil. The IMFs Kristalina Georgieva noted that the world economy has been hit by one shock after another  the coronavirus pandemic, Russias invasion of Ukraine and a resurgence of inflation. But reining in rising prices should take priority, she said. If we do not restore price stability, we will undermine prospects for growth, she said. The Federal Reserve and other central banks have been raising interest rates to tame inflation. Georgieva acknowledged that the higher borrowing costs would pinch economic growth, but she urged policymakers to show restraint in spending money to ease the pain.
ARCADIA  Ashley Furniture Industries on Monday afternoon reinforced its presence in Arcadia by breaking ground on an approximately $30 million e-commerce fulfillment and distribution center.

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker joined local, county and state officials, and Ashley Furniture employees at the official groundbreaking, a politician-studded affair featuring speeches by Arcadia Mayor Rob Reichwein, 92nd District Assembly Rep. Treig Pronschinske, Ashley founder and Chairman Ron Wanek, and Walker.

The center will be just off of Washington Street by the companys distribution services in Arcadia and will cover 500,000 square feet, the largest expansion in the Arcadia facilitys 47-year history. The facility is expected to be finished February 2018, according to Wanek.

The expansion answers the demand for more immediate online services. Wanek said Ashley faces competition that can offer customers a one- to two-day delivery. Online commerce accounts for 5 percent of the Ashley sales and will be able to grow with the expansion, Wanek said.

When others have failed, weve been successful, and thats because weve had the change and people have been willing to change, Wanek said.

The site will also serve as a way for Ashley to retain its 5,000-person job force in western Wisconsin an increasingly automated world, Wanek said, adding the company hopes to create a few jobs with the new site.

At the ceremony, Walker credited a partnership between Ashley Furniture and the state with the continuing expansion. The company boasts 700 locations in 36 countries. Continuing to expand in Arcadia, Walker said, will be an extension of a manufacturing tradition in Wisconsin.

What will be inside this great new structure is really a symbol of the future. Its not just saying that were good at manufacturing, Walker said. That were so good, that were going to make it even better.

The statewide unemployment level has fallen to just above 3 percent  the second-lowest in state history  and Walker also encouraged more funding and programming for manufacturing and career education and training, starting as early as sixth grade, to encourage more manufacturing careers in Wisconsin.

All of that is for one reason: workforce, Walker said to the crowd. And we understand that student success in and of itself is valuable, but the fundamental reason why we need to do even more of that going forward is we have incredible needs in our workforce.

According to the citys mayor, Reichwein, the expansion by Ashley is another progression in the companys long history with the town.

I think over the years weve done stuff to encourage it, Reichwein said. We have such a large infrastructure here already.

Reichwein said the expansion will also encourage more business growth for not only the city of Arcadia but also the surrounding areas as well. The unemployment rate in Trempealeau County is below the statewide average  at 2.8 percent.

The partnerships Arcadia, surrounding communities and Ashley Furniture have forged with state and federal have contributed to the employment boom, according to Walker, who said at the ceremony it is businesses who provide the workforce with jobs, not politicians.

Government can create a good environment, but we dont create jobs. Thats the myth, Walker said.... We create an environment where job creators like Ron Wanek and Todd Wanek and all the folks here at Ashley create more jobs and create more opportunity.
Wisconsin home prices continued to rise in May while sales lagged 2016 levels as the housing supply remained historically tight.

Existing home sales in La Crosse County are down 11.6 percent from the prior year through the first five months of 2017, according to numbers released Monday by the Wisconsin Realtors Association.

The median sales price so far in 2017 was $164,250, up from $155,000 at this point last year.

Statewide sales were up 1.3 percent in May, bringing the year-to-date number to within 0.4 points of the record level set during the first five months of 2016. The median sales price for the year is up 5.4 percent to $165,500.

Fewer people put homes on the market during the month, bringing the statewide supply of homes to 5.6 months. Inventories are especially tight in urban counties.

La Crosse County has the tightest market in the state, though the supply grew to 2.8 months, up from 2.3 months in March. Thats due in part to a small increase in new listings and declining sales volumes.

Its not because of demand conditions, said WRA economist Dave Clark. Its a supply issue.

Despite the shortage of homes, La Crosse Area Realtors Association president Dave Snyder said the local market has been active.

The markets great, Snyder said. Buyers just need to be a little patient, thats all.

The number of sales closed in May was the lowest for the county in five years, though the median sales price was the highest in the decade since the WRA began tracking it.

Snyder said homes priced between $175,000 and $200,000 are in the highest demand, though properties are moving at higher and lower price points.

The reality is I just put a house on the market for $129,900 and had five offers in a day-and-a-half, he said.
Deep in Gov. Scott Walkers budget proposal is a seemingly benign item formalizing the transfer of 15 scientists within the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Two years ago, Walker and lawmakers enacted a budget that cut 18 DNR science service bureau researchers amid complaints that their research related to climate change, pollution and wildlife habitat were controversial and unneeded.

Now the science services bureau is being dissolved and its remaining scientists moved to program offices that use their research.

A frequent critic of the DNR said the move will give more control to DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp, who was appointed by Walker in 2011 to make the department friendlier to business.

I think its a more disciplined approach where the leadership of the Department of Natural Resources really directs that research, said Sen. Tom Tiffany, a Hazelhurst Republican and part of the GOP majority on the Legislatures budget committee.

Stepp should be able to ensure that research benefits sportsmen and the DNR should be better able to prevent further research that takes climate change into account, Tiffany said.

Tiffany doesnt accept the findings of 97 percent of working climate scientists that the climate is changing rapidly in large part because of human-caused pollution.

Its theoretical, Tiffany said. Its based on models that have not been proven.

Stepp has said that while the DNR doesnt take a position on the causes of climate change, it does work to make sure it is adapting its fish stocking plans to findings that show certain lakes and streams are growing too warm for some fish species.

DNR spokesman Jim Dick didnt respond to requests for more information on the departments current and future plans for adapting programs to climate change.

However, about two years ago DNR scientists began dropping out of a collaboration with other agencies that began in 2007 to help the state adapt to climate trends, said David Liebl, a co-chairman of the organization.

Some of the researchers have retired or gone to work in other states, but those who remain still want to help the state minimize the potential damage to natural resources from climate change, said Liebl, a UW-Extension professor emeritus and leader of the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts.

After Walker and other Republicans took over state government in 2011 and began pressuring the DNR to change its focus, department scientists tried to keep their work under the radar by substituting terms like climate variability for climate change.

Public plan discontinued

A Legislative Fiscal Bureau paper delivered to lawmakers recently revealed that two years ago the DNR stopped publicly laying out its research plans and priorities, a move Democrats said eliminates accountability and gives Stepp more control.

This is just part of the continued effort to discourage the use of science or evidence in this administrations decision-making, said Sen. Jon Erpenbach, a Middleton Democrat on the budget committee. Gov. Walker and Legislative Republicans dont want science to get in the way of their politics.

Walker didnt respond to requests for comment. Dick said Stepp wouldnt comment while lawmakers were deliberating on Walkers budget.

The fiscal bureau paper said the DNR argues that eliminating the science bureau and placing remaining researchers in program offices will provide clarity on who owns and makes decisions with respect to research priorities.

Publicly available documents indicate the DNR created at least one or two public plans spelling out departmentwide research priorities before Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle left office in 2011.

The fiscal bureau said staff from the science bureau and in programs concerned with hunting, fishing, forestry, recreation and air and water pollution spent weeks discussing what research was most needed. The DNR secretarys office approved of plans before they were delivered for information purposes in January of odd-numbered years to the DNRs policy board, the fiscal bureau said.

In 2014, staff members created a draft fisheries research plan obtained by the Wisconsin State Journal that listed ongoing and future research projects, including several related to how climate change would affect stream flows and fish.

It was never completed, and the DNR was unsure when it would complete a plan for 2017 because it is reviewing its process, the fiscal bureau said.

Dick said the DNR had many research agendas that werent sent to the policy board.

Programs have any number of research agendas in the works at various stages of development, Dick said. There is not just one fisheries research agenda or wildlife agenda or invasive species agenda. There could be any number of them in the works or being updated at any given time.

Dick didnt provide copies of documents describing current research priorities when the State Journal requested them June 6. Friday afternoon he said it was too late in the day to obtain one.

Transparent process

Mike Meyer, who was a science bureau wildlife biologist until his position was cut in 2015, said the departmentwide plans were created because of concerns bureau research wasnt sufficiently integrated with needs of fisheries, wildlife and forestry programs.

It was a pretty transparent process where anyone could look at the rankings, Meyer said. But when they stopped issuing the report, you lost that transparency.

Former DNR secretary George Meyer said placing the researchers in program offices may make them subject to a variety of pressures that could affect the way they design their research on controversial topics such as chronic wasting disease in the deer herd.

The science bureau had about 60 employees before the 2015 cuts. Of the 15 remaining science bureau researchers, 13 will perform research in programs and two will work in wastewater management. About 22 other bureau staff members will also be transferred to other offices.
The U.S. Supreme Court said Monday it will decide in its next term a case brought by Democratic voters in Wisconsin who argue that state legislative districts are unconstitutionally gerrymandered to favor Republicans. In a separate decision, the court put on hold a lower court order that the state draw new boundaries.

The action was announced in a list of orders that the court issued Monday. Arguments would likely be heard in the fall.

The case was initially decided in November by a panel of two federal district court judges and a U.S. Court of Appeals judge, which said in a 2-1 decision that state Assembly boundaries drawn up by Republicans in 2011 constituted a partisan gerrymander.

The case is expected to have an impact nationally, deciding the standard by which courts can determine whether a redistricting plan is drawn unconstitutionally on the basis of the party affiliation of voters.

The Supreme Court had discussed the case at its June 8 and June 15 conferences, according to the courts docket on the case.

A separate order by the court Monday granted a motion by state Attorney General Brad Schimel to stay the lower court panels order that new state Assembly district lines be drawn by November 2017, before the 2018 elections. The stay was opposed by Justices Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagen, the courts four liberal-leaning justices.

But Paul Smith, lead attorney for the Democratic voters, said that even with the delay in creating new maps, its possible new maps would be in place before the 2018 fall elections. He said he expects that after briefs are filed in the case over the summer, oral arguments would be heard in November or December, followed by a ruling next spring. He said that leaves plenty of time before a June 2018 filing deadline for state legislative races.

Sachin Chheda, director of the Fair Elections Project, which organized and launched the lawsuit on behalf of Democratic voters in Wisconsin, said later that lawyers for the voters were told that oral arguments would be scheduled for the first week of October.

We feel good that that will help make it more possible that we can get new maps before the 2018 election, Chheda said.

Schimel had asked the Supreme Court to delay the drawing of new boundaries until after the court rules on the merits of the case, arguing that drawing new maps now would be a waste of resources.

The stay is particularly important because it preserves the Legislatures time, effort and resources while this case is pending, Schimel said in a statement Monday applauding the stay.

UW-Madison political science professor Barry Burden said people shouldnt view the stay as an indication of where the court stands on the case overall. He added, though, that because of the time it will take for the Supreme Court to decide the case, In 2018, were very likely to be using the districts we have today, regardless of how the court rules. He said he doesnt believe the court will rule until possibly the middle of 2018.

Rick Hasen, a law professor at the University of California-Irvine, who blogs about election law cases, wrote Sunday night that the courts granting a stay would indicate a good possibility that the court is positioned to reverse the lower court panels decision in the case.

So this stay order raises a big question mark for those who think (the) court will use the case to rein in partisan gerrymandering, he added Monday.

Both sides encouraged

Other lawyers who represent Democrats in election cases chimed in on Twitter Monday with some skepticism about success in the case.

The vote on the stay should tamp down some of the excitement about this grant, wrote Ronald Klain, who worked in the White House under Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton.

Marc Elias, who was general counsel for Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign, agreed in a short tweet.

In a statement issued later by the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, Elias, an NDRC adviser, called the case the latest sign that the courts remain a strong check on extreme Republican gerrymandering. He said the Wisconsin case, along with others, will halt these illegal maps, now and in the future.

Wisconsin Democratic Party chairwoman Martha Laning said she is confident that the 2011 legislative maps will be declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court as well and electoral fairness will be restored to Wisconsin.

Twelve Republican-dominated states are supporting Wisconsin in its defense of the 2011 redistricting plan. In addition, Wisconsin GOP legislative leaders hired a pair of law firms to represent them before the Supreme Court.

Schimel said in a statement that hes thrilled the Supreme Court has taken the case.

As I have said before, our redistricting process was entirely lawful and constitutional, and the district court should be reversed, Schimel said.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said in a joint statement that they are encouraged by the Supreme Courts decision to take the case and by the stay in the order to re-map Assembly districts.

Wisconsin lawmakers have maintained that our states redistricting process and legislative maps are legal and constitutional, and we look forward to the Courts final decision, which we are confident will affirm our position, Vos and Fitzgerald said.

The U.S. Supreme Court has never struck down a state redistricting plan on the basis of a partisan gerrymander.

In May, the court struck down two North Carolina congressional districts that it said were based too heavily on race and ruled that Republicans who controlled the state legislature and governors office placed too many African-Americans in the two districts. That weakened African-American voting strength elsewhere in the state, the court said.

Taking unfair advantage

In its decision in the Wisconsin case, the majority in the lower court panel decision wrote that the Assembly district map, which was drawn in the office of a Madison law firm that often represents Republican interests, was intended to burden the representational rights of Democratic voters ... by impeding their ability to translate their votes into legislative seats.

U.S. Appeals Court Judge Kenneth Ripple, an appointee of President Ronald Reagan, wrote the decision, and was joined by U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, of Madison, a Jimmy Carter appointee. Dissenting was U.S. Chief Judge William Griesbach, a George W. Bush appointee.

In a subsequent ruling, the lower court panel ordered that the Legislature must have new maps in place by Nov. 1, 2017, for the 2018 general election.

The team working on behalf of the Democratic voters contends that it has found a way to measure unconstitutional partisan gerrymanders designed to give a large and durable advantage in elections to one party  a measure that the Supreme Court has said was lacking in previous cases contending a partisan gerrymander.

The measure, called the efficiency gap, shows how cracking (breaking up blocs of Democratic voters) and packing (concentrating Democrats within certain districts) results in wasted votes  excess votes for winners in safe districts and perpetually inadequate votes for the losers.

The Democrats say that the 2011 plan was drawn specifically to disenfranchise Democratic voters. Their lawsuit states that in the first election after the 2011 redistricting, Republican candidates won 60 of the Assemblys 99 seats even though Democratic candidates won a majority of the statewide votes cast for Assembly.

Trevor Potter, president of the Campaign Legal Center, who has worked on behalf of Republican candidates such as U.S. Sen. John McCain in the past, said partisan gerrymandering is practiced by both parties, thanks to computer software that makes selecting voters for district maps much easier than in the past.

What were seeing is, where possible, the party in power is taking unfair advantage of their official position to benefit their parties and ensure that the will of the voters is not carried out, Potter said. The effect of this is a serious problem for our democracy.

Burden said that if the Supreme Court overturns the lower court panels decision, it could be a long time before another partisan gerrymandering case lands at its doorstep. But if it upholds the lower court, it will be a landmark decision.

Thats a message to other states that they also need to prevent partisanship from going too far, Burden said.

State Journal reporter Mark Sommerhauser contributed to this report.
The state Elections Commission will weigh whether to help municipalities adopt electronic poll books  record-keeping devices used in lieu of paper rosters at Election Day polling places.

The item is on the agenda for the commissions Tuesday meeting.

E-poll books have not been used in Wisconsin, but the commission says they are used in at least 27 states. Like their paper counterparts, the devices contain lists of registered voters in a municipality, as well as voter signatures and other information about voters.

If commissioners move toward the use of e-poll books, they could be employed for the fall 2018 election, according to a spokesman for the commission, Reid Magney.

Magney said officials in various municipalities have expressed interest in e-poll books. Their use would be voluntary for each of the more than 1,800 Wisconsin cities, villages or towns, each of which administer elections within their boundaries.

Commission director Michael Haas acknowledged that e-poll books present security concerns. Such concerns have come to the fore in light of the U.S. intelligence community assessment that Russia intervened to attempt to influence the 2016 U.S. election. A recent Bloomberg report said U.S. officials have concluded Russias election-related cyber-attack included incursions into voter databases and software systems in various states, including Illinois.

E-poll books are not linked to voting or vote-counting machines and would not be connected to the internet while in use at polling places on Election Day, Haas said. But he said they would periodically be connected to the states voter registration system.

In states where e-poll books are used, Haas said security concerns have been outweighed by the benefits to voters and election workers. E-poll books shorten check-in lines for voters at polling places and simplify election workers jobs on and after Election Day, he said.

It really has benefits throughout the entire election process, Haas said. We think the benefits are there and we can continue to protect the system.

The discussion follows last years passage of a state law saying the commission may facilitate the creation and maintenance of electronic poll lists either by contracting with outside vendors or building software and other systems in-house.

Commission staffers are recommending that commissioners, three Republican and three Democratic appointees, authorize staff to proceed with efforts to build and implement an electronic poll book solution that would be available to municipalities at no cost.
A 19-year-old Tomah man was referred to the Monroe County District Attorney for sexual intercourse with a child and bail jumping after allegedly having sex with two different teen-age girls.

Police followed up on reports that Brandon T. Tupper had engaged in sex with several underage females and interviewed him May 10 in the Monroe County Jail. The report says Tupper admitted to having sex multiple times with two girls in Monroe County. He said the encounters took place between March and August 2016. One girl was 17 at the time, and the other was 15. Both girls told police that the sex was consensual.

Tupper is registered as sex offender and has a March 2016 bond condition that prohibits him from committing any crime, which triggered the bail jumping referral.

In other Monroe County Sheriffs office news:

Jeffrey Russell Bansemer, 62, Tomah, was referred to the district attorney twice in three days for separate incidents at a town of Oakdale residence.

The first occurred June 6, when police responded to a report of screaming and yelling from a residence. One of the occupants said Bansemer grabbed him by the neck and threatened him with a cane. Bansemer said he was trying to evict the man and two others from his residence.

Bansemer was referred for disorderly conduct and battery.

The second incident occurred June 9, when police were dispatched to the residence to mediate a property exchange. The report says Bansemer was confrontational, loud and upset and that a resident told police that Bansemer had struck her in the face. Bansemer denied striking her but acknowledged he had been physical with her in past, according to the report. He was referred for disorderly conduct and battery.

Mitchell N. Link, 30, Black River Falls, and Enchanting B. Littlewolf, 19, Wisconsin Dells, were referred to the district attorney after a June 6 incident in the town of Byron.

Police were called to an Epic Avenue residence by Link, who reportedly told police that a woman, later identified at Littlewolf, had a warrant for her arrest and needed to be picked up. When police arrived, Littlewolf was on the ground bleeding and crying. She told police that she and Link had been in an argument and that Link struck her in the head with a closed fist five times. She also told police that she struck a witness trying to break up the fight and acknowledged the outstanding warrant.

Link was referred for battery, and Littlewolf was referred for disorderly conduct. Both were referred for bail jumping.

Kyra Beth Lein, 33, Tomah, was referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct after a May 21 incident in the town of Oakdale. She is accused of punching a glass picture frame during an argument, which left a pile of shattered glass.

Kurtis J. Woodhouse, 23, Viroqua, was referred to the district attorney for bail jumping. He is accused of violating a no-contact order.

Dexter Sherod Yarbough, 47, and Breckan Rose Allan, 29, both of DeSoto were referred to the district attorney on drug charges after a June 1 traffic stop in the town of Tomah.

Police pulled over a Ford Taurus for not displaying a front license plate. The driver, Yarbough, reportedly told police he was considering purchasing the car and was test driving it. Allan, a passenger, said they were in the process of filing the registration.

After issuing three traffic citations, police searched the vehicle and allegedly found the butt end of a smoked marijuana cigarette. A search of a black bag reportedly revealed several syringes and a straw with a crystalline substance police identified at methamphetamine. Both were referred for possession of marijuana and possession of methamphetamine.

Kelly Gene Abbott, 50, Black River Falls, was referred to the district attorney for multiple charges after a June 2 incident in Warrens.

Police were dispatched to Okos Outpost after a report that Abbott was carrying a firearm while intoxicated and fighting with an employee. The report says Abbott was disarmed prior to police arriving and that he then tried pull a knife. The knife was taken away, but he was reportedly remained combative.

Abbott had been subdued when police arrived. He was handcuffed and transported to the Monroe County Jail, where reportedly refused a blood test. When told he was being transported to a Sparta hospital for a blood draw, he reportedly said an officer would need to shoot him to obtain a sample. He allegedly resisted efforts to escort him from the holding cell. During the struggle, an officer suffered a laceration on his nose.

Abbott was referred for disorderly conduct, endangering safety by possessing a weapon while intoxicated, disorderly conduct, battery to an officer, resisting an officer and carrying a concealed weapon.

Austin L. Gardner, 22, La Crosse, was referred to the district attorney for third-degree sexual assault after allegedly assaulting a woman in the town of Little Falls.

The woman said she was asleep in a room at her residence May 5 and was awaken when Gardner entered the room. She said Gardner touched her private areas despite repeated requests to leave. She told police then penetrated her for a period that lasted 15 to 20 minutes.

Jesse L. Hansen, 26, Tomah, and Christopher D. Cole, 25, Sparta, were referred to the district attorney for a May 30 incident in the Monroe County Jail. According to the report, a fight stared after Hansen slammed a telephone multiple times against the dial tone receiver. Cole allegedly got into Hansens face and slapped him in the head. Hansen attempted to punch Cole, who responded by placing Hansen in a headlock.

Hansen was referred for disorderly conduct, and Cole was referred for battery to an inmate.

Tracy L. Forrest, 48, Camp Douglas, was referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct after a June 9 incident in the town of Byron.

According to the report, Forrest was yelling at another person for being on the phone. When another person got between them to keep the situation from escalating, Forrest allegedly shoved him, grabbed him by the waist and took him to the ground. The report says Forrest was intoxicated, and a preliminary breath test registered a blood-alcohol count of .254.

Crystal A. Pharis, 24, Sparta, was referred to the district attorney on multiple charges after allegedly resisting officers while housed as a prisoner in the Monroe County Jail. The report says staff responded to Pharis jail cell after she intentionally slammed her head against a jail grate. As a result of the ensuing struggle, Pharis was referred for disorderly conduct, resisting an officer, and discharging bodily fluids on an officer.

Caitlin Kraemer, 25, Cedarburg, was referred to the district attorney for disorderly conduct and resisting an officer after a June 9 incident in the Monroe County Jail.

Kraemer is accused of trying to flood her holding cell by flushing large quantities of toilet paper down the toilet. The report says she refused to relinquish the toilet paper and resisted when officers attempted to restrain her.

Edward J. Parker, 52, Tomah, was referred to the district attorney for battery after a June 11 incident at Loves Travel Stop.

According to the report, a man was waiting in the parking lot to pick up a passenger when Parker jumped into the vehicle and hit him in the stomach and face. Parker left the scene, and police hadnt make contact him with him as of June 12.

Jayme N. Martinez, 40, Warrens, was referred to the district attorney for obstructing an officer and possession of drug paraphernalia after a June 11 contact with police in Warrens.

Police were dispatched to a Warrens residence in an attempt to located Robert W. Kingsley, 32, Warrens, on an arrest warrant. Police met with Martinez at the residence, and she gave consent for police to enter the home. She allegedly told police that Kingsley wasnt present.

Police went upstairs and found a bathroom door locked. Police used a paperclip to open the door and found Kingsley sitting inside bathroom. Police handcuffed Kingsley and transported him to the Monroe County Jail.

The report says police also found a meth-type glass pipe and torch-type lighter sitting on a bed. The report says Martinez acknowledged the pipe was hers.
The legislatures Joint Finance Committee, on which I serve, rejected Gov. Scott Walkers plan to move all state employee health insurance to a self-insurance model. We decided that the risk associated with self-insurance was not worth the projected reward or potential savings.

In a self-insured group health plan, the employer assumes the financial risk for providing health care benefits to its employees. The employer pays for each out-of-pocket claim instead of paying a fixed premium to an insurance carrier for coverage under a negotiated plan.

Currently, and because of our decision, state employee health insurance will continue to pay health plans a monthly premium for coverage for state employees and their families. The structure of this program will change, but overall, most employees will continue to be covered the same way that they are now.

Health insurance premiums for the state have risen only 3.7 percent over the last 10 years. Compared to the private sector, this increase is nominal and relatively low. We spend approximately $1.2 billion per year in health insurance premiums to cover state employees and their families.

As we studied the idea of self-insurance, we recognized a number of factors that led to our decision. First and foremost, changing to self-insurance places 100 percent of the risk on our state. Measuring that against the estimated savings of less than three percent of the total cost of the program, my colleagues and I do not believe that the risk is worth the reward. Studies of the potential savings have been inconsistent and uncertain. I was not convinced that the savings would be worth causing a major disruption in health insurance for our employees statewide.

Self-insurance would disrupt a health insurance program that is working well. It would especially impact state employees in rural parts of our state where there are fewer providers and options for workers. State employees in Madison or Milwaukee may not see any changes, but a worker in Cassville or Elroy might have a much different experience.

With this decision, the JFC has directed the Group Insurance Board to sharpen its pencils to find savings within our current health insurance program to make up the estimated savings the governor included in his budget. We know there are changes that could be made such as increasing wellness initiatives, plan designs and more. In fact, through this action, we have given the GIB flexibility to add tiers of coverage to save money while giving employees more choices and options to manage their own health care coverage. The GIB was previously authorized to administer three tiers, but only offered two. We have increased their authorization to offer five different levels of coverage to employees and have encouraged them to add tiers.

The state health insurance program is a rich plan. We have above average utilization compared to private-sector employers with similar demographics. Our health insurance program is a valuable fringe benefit for all state employees. A disruption in this benefit would not have been worth the questionable reward.

As your state Senator, I consider this decision to be a win-win for taxpayers and state employees. There is a net cost of zero for our action, and I am optimistic that the GIB will be able to manage our resources responsibly as we move forward and create a system that offers state employees more options.

For more information and to connect with me, visit my website legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/17/marklein and subscribe to my weekly E-Update by sending an email to Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. Do not hesitate to call 800-978-8008 if you have input, ideas or need assistance with any state-related matters.

Republican Howard Marklein, Spring Green, represents the 17th state Senate District.
The Viroqua Police Department reports Casey L. Thibodeaux, 36, will be released under supervision. He is a member of the Aryan Empire Gang, according to a police report. From his release until July 16, Thibodeaux will live at the Midway Motel on Main Street in Viroqua, after which time it is anticipated that we will be able to secure long-term housing, according to police. He must wear a GPS ankle bracelet for the rest of his life and he cannot have contact with minors.
James Cotten(NEWARK, N.J.) -- One man was inspired to make a major change in his life after seeing the 2002 film, "Antwone Fisher."



"When I saw that movie, it was very touching," James Cotten told ABC News.



"Antwone Fisher" -- featuring and directed by Denzel Washington -- centers on a man with a troubled past, played by Derek Luke, after he was abused in a foster home. After enlisting in the U.S. Navy, he's inspired to reconnect with his mother in an effort to forgive her.



Cotten, a 39-year-old diversity sourcing specialist for a global chemical company, said that although he's an only child, his parents have a combined total of 23 siblings.



"So it was really heartbreaking for me to even watch that [film]," Cotten continued. "To think there were people that didn't necessarily have a family was very heartbreaking. Outside of church, I've never felt like I've been ministered to."



The Newark, New Jersey man said he felt a calling to adopt a child. But he was waiting until the right time.



"I had set all of these goals for myself -- when I buy a house, I'm actually going to do it," he explained. "I thought I'd be married. I thought I'd be in a different place in my life by now. I had this checklist that I created but it just became the right time."



In 2013, Cotten began the adoption process. After three years, he finally got a call about a 3-year-old boy named Caleb, who is autistic and needed a home.



"Because of his profile, most households [couldn't take in] an autistic kid with screaming bouts. Once I realized they didn't have a place to put him, he just stayed, and we just figured it out," he said, noting that before adopting him he had to foster Caleb.



Ten months later, on April 28, Cotten officially adopted Caleb. A photo of the two -- with Cotten holding a sign that reads, "Today is my last day in foster care because I'm being adopted!" -- went viral on Facebook.



Today Cotten, who is still a single dad, is celebrating his first Father's Day. He said he's most looking forward to being a family man.



"I'm looking forward to PTA meetings. I'm looking forward to school projects. I'm looking forward to helping out with school plays and dance class," he said. "I'm looking forward to providing as much exposure as possible."



"I was blessed as a kid to have the ability to go to other countries [and] dance classes thanks to my mom. And now that my mom is gone, I really look forward to giving him those experiences that my mom gave me," Cotten added.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
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A bank robbery was reported Tuesday evening at the Chase Bank branch at 75 E. Grant St. in Lebanon.
On Nov. 1, Linn Benton Food Shares warehouse in Tangent received two truckloads of food and household supplies arranged by the local branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The memory of a beloved pet inspires one couple's fight against injustice.
This website is inclusive of tolerant people of all faiths, without exception. Neither anti-Semitism nor Islamophobia nor homophobia should ever be acceptable to anyone. We must all strive to live in peace and harmony with each other, regardless of religious affiliations, or none. Intolerance is the mother of strife and conflict.   Mark Alexander

We Britons are Europeans!Wir Briten sind Europaer! Nous, les Britanniques, sommes europeens !  Mark AlexanderEmail me at:markalexander.librabunda@gmail.com
Boquete, Panama is a small town in the Chiriqui province in Panamas interior, little more than thirty miles away from the Costa Rican border. Known for its abundant natural beauty, steady mountain climate, and a currency linked to the American dollar, it is a popular destination for tourists, and North American retirees.

Mrs. Barbara Rabkin moved to Boquete back in 2008 when it had a small and mostly inactive Jewish community. Eight years later, Rabbi Yakov and Hana Poliwoda moved to town and opened a Chabad house.

The Poliwodas have brought renewed enthusiasm to the Jews of Boquete, Rabkin affirms, highlighting the couples weekly classes, open home on Shabbat and holidays, and organization of the first-ever public menorah lighting in the Boquete town square. Chabad has really put Boquete on the map as a place where Jews can visit or move to.

The Poliwodas, formerly of Panama City, often made the 300 mile commute between the two cities to conduct holiday programs and classes in Boquete before finally settling down for good in August of 2016. They began hosting events in their apartment, and renting hotel conference rooms when they needed more space.

In early May, after only one year of operation, Chabad of Boquete inaugurated a new center. A long-term lease located within the Hotel Fundadores on the towns main road, the center includes a prayer room, kitchen, and multipurpose rooms.

The Poliwodas also plan to launch a summer camp, dubbed Yeshivacation Boquete for Latin American boys who want a taste of Judaism.

Close to fifty people attended the inauguration event in May, including members of the towns original Jewish families, Israeli ambassador Gil Arzyeli and his wife Viviana, and Jewish-Panamanian philosopher Alberto Osorio.

According to Rabkin, Jewish people who want to move to Panama now understand that Boquete has a growing Jewish community, and that there is somewhere for them to have a kosher meal, spend a holiday or Shabbat, or observe a yahrzeit. Thanks to the Poliwodas, Jews now have options in Boquete.

To learn more about Chabad of Boquete, visit their website at www.chabadboquete.com.
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Chinese real estate businessman Guo Wengui, who has feuded with Chinas ruling Communist Party, faces at least three U.S. lawsuits by companies and people in China claiming he made defamatory statements tying them to corruption.

Guo, who chose in 2015 to live in exile in a lavish New York apartment, has used social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube to launch blistering attacks on many of Chinas elite, accusing them of graft amid a national anti-corruption campaign. Some of his targets are firing back in New York state court.

HNA Group Co., a Chinese conglomerate, sued Thursday, claiming Guo made defamatory and libelous statements, including that Chinese Communist party officials are undisclosed shareholders in the company.

Guo has also falsely claimed government officials and relatives used company aircraft for purely personal reasons, including to engage in illicit sexual activity, according to a legal notice in New York state Supreme Court. The complaint wasnt immediately available. HNA, Deutsche Bank AGs largest shareholder, owns commercial real estate in the U.S. It seeks unspecified money damages.

An attorney who represents Guo on the Caixin Media and Soho China cases defended his statements.

He stands by the veracity of the comments that hes been making, said attorney Duncan Levin. The complaints against him are baseless. As a matter of law, their complaints are simply wrong.

Guo, who also goes by the name Miles Kwok, has a strong social media presence with more than 250,000 followers on Twitter and slickly produced videos on Facebook and YouTube that garner tens of thousands of views.

In April, Caixin Media Co. Ltd and its editor-in-chief, Hu Shuli, sued Guo for libel. Hu claimed Guo launched a barrage of defamatory claims after she published a report examining his business dealings and asserting he conspired to oust Beijings deputy mayor. A furious Guo responded with a campaign of public lies, according to the complaint by Caixin and Hu.

Guo falsely claimed Hu had an extramarital affair, bore an illegitimate child, participated in sex games, abused drugs, extorted opponents, published false stories and defrauded companies, according to the filing. Caixin and Hu are seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages. Guo has asked for the suit to be dismissed, saying in court that his statements werent defamatory and that translations of the comments into English may be incorrect.

A real estate development firm, Soho China Ltd., and its co-founder, Pan Shiyi, sued for slander on June 2. Guo, they claim, falsely accused Soho and Pan of illegally colluding with government officials, manipulating information about company ownership and improperly procuring favorable zoning changes.

Guo also falsely stated that Pans wife, the companys chief executive officer, had an extramarital affair with the son of a high-ranking government official, according to the complaint. David Voreacos, Andrew Harris, Bloomberg
Andrew Sullivan remembers the days when a young Brit could hustle his way into a job in Hong Kong finance.

He ought to know: He did it.

It was 1996, the twilight of British Hong Kong, when Sullivan arrived with a resume that couldnt get him into a bank in the City of London. The former fighter pilot and chartered surveyor was soon hired as a stock analyst.

You didnt need a CV that was perfect, said Sullivan, now 55. What you needed, he said, was gumption  and the will to chase business.

But like the Union Jack and other trappings of empire, those days are long gone. Two decades after Britain returned its last major colony, the balance of power in this city, and its financial industry, has tilted decidedly toward all things China.

More and more, even experienced bankers are struggling to find and keep jobs if they dont speak Mandarin, the lingua franca of the mainland. The same goes for those without a mastery of Chinas business culture, or, more, connections across the border.

Granted, this shift was underway long before the fireworks popped over Victoria Harbor on July 1, 1997, marking the end of more than 150 years of British rule. Colonial privilege  the perks of ones passport and kinship with the home office  could never withstand globalization. Chinas economic rise, and the worlds rush to capitalize on it, only speeded the change.

And so it is that another British tradition is going the way of God Save the Queen in Hong Kong.

For years, the territorys Chinese, and even its China-savvy expatriates, derisively called indulged Brits FILTH, which stands for Failed In London, Try Hong Kong. Expats who might have never worked in the City, Europes financial hub, could walk into good jobs and cut deals in the soft-carpeted confines of the Hong Kong Club or over a pint at the Captains Bar in the Mandarin Oriental.

Now FILTH is in terminal decline, its fate seemingly sealed by cost-cutting throughout the financial industry.

John Mullally, an executive recruiter, said that as recently as 2010, expatriates from Britain and the rest of Europe, plus those from the U.S. and Australia, landed 40 percent of his finance job placements. Today, that figure is 15 percent.

On a weekly basis I get quite a few senior bankers that 15 years ago would have picked up a job straightaway, but today theyre really struggling, said Mullally, who runs Robert Walters Plcs banking practice in Hong Kong.

At Citigroup Inc., Chinese students will account for the majority of university graduates the firm intends to hire full time in Hong Kong next year, according to James Mendes, the U.S. banks Asia-Pacific head of recruitment. For the past two years, JPMorgan Chase & Co. has hired more than 40 percent of its full-time graduates and interns for Hong Kong from local universities, a number the bank expects to increase as it ramps up business in the region.

Private banks are also looking for China-skilled staff to help them capture a slice of the countrys burgeoning wealth. Bank of Singapore Ltd., a unit of Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp., for example, hired 20 Mandarin- speaking relationship managers in Hong Kong this year.

Scarce, too, for expats are perks like generous housing allowances and memberships to such elite clubs as the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, which, unlike most Hong Kong institutions, has retained its royal association  or, for Americans, the American Club. The value of a typical expatriate middle-manager package in Hong Kong fell to a five-year low in 2016, according to a recent survey by consultancy firm ECA International. Still, thats USD265,500.

Ben Quinlan hardly qualifies as FILTH. But hes felt the walls close in. Born in Hong Kong and educated in Australia, he doesnt speak Mandarin.

When he returned to Hong Kong, in 2007, he hoped to land a job in investment banking. Instead, he had to settle for one in internal strategy at UBS Group AG, where speaking Chinese wasnt a requirement.

Young junior bankers without language skills are so rare these days, said Quinlan, 33, who now runs his own financial consulting firm.

Most global banks have tried to bring in Chinese power brokers. Many of these bankers are not only bilingual but also bicultural  products of elite Western universities who can move seamlessly between China and the global Wall Street. Many also bring deep connections to Chinas leadership and state-owned enterprises. Now mostly in their 40s and 50s, they include Morgan Stanleys Wei Sun Christianson and Credit Suisse Group AGs Janice Hu.

For the most part, divisional and regional leadership roles in Hong Kong are still held mostly by expatriates. But a new generation of Chinese financial pros, most with language skills and many with top degrees, have filled the lower ranks  and seem destined to rise. Thats bad news for all expats, FILTH or otherwise.

People here are very pragmatic, and they will adjust their line of sight to where it allows them to make the most money, said Mullally, the recruiter.

Two decades ago, Sullivan broke into Hong Kong finance as a 35-year-old Royal Air Force veteran with no experience in the industry. He moved on from equity research into a successful career in sales trading, albeit one outside the big leagues of the Goldmans or Morgan Stanleys.

Now his career has taken another turn. After two years working for the Chinese, overseeing sales trading at securities firm Haitong International Securities Group Ltd., on May 31 he was given his marching orders. His position had been made redundant.

Hes looking for a new job in Hong Kong and says hes had some promising conversations with recruiters. After 20 years, Asia is what he knows.

Ive got nothing in common with the U.K. now, he said. Darren Boey, Keri Geiger, Bloomberg
A Hong Kong appeals court has started hearing arguments over a case that has raised questions over the citys allure as a diversity-friendly employment destination.

Lawyers for a British lesbian  named in court documents only as QT  are seeking to overturn a March 2016 ruling supporting the governments rejection of her application to reside in Hong Kong as a dependent of her partner. Two years earlier, the immigration department had knocked back QTs application essentially because it didnt recognize same-sex marriages.

The case has drawn interest from multinational companies as it hinders the ability of international firms to offer gay professionals residency permits for their partners  a privilege available to married heterosexual couples. Leading up to the hearings, 12 financial firms including Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Morgan Stanley had unsuccessfully applied as a group to support QT in her appeal.

The immigration departments existing policy deters gay people from coming to Hong Kong, Dinah Rose, one of QTs lawyers, said Thursday, the first day of the hearings. Twelve household names were prepared to say this policy is detrimental in recruiting talent, said Rose, a prominent U.K. barrister.

QTs case and a separate one involving a Hong Kong civil servant have thrown the focus recently on rights for gay spouses in the city, which doesnt recognize same-sex marriage. In April, a gay immigration officer won his court battle to have his partner granted the same spousal benefits as his heterosexual colleagues. The government is appealing that decision, the South China Morning Post reported last month.

QTs saga began when her partner was offered a job in Hong Kong, prompting the couple to move to the city in late 2011, court documents show. The pair entered into a civil partnership in the U.K. in May 2011, which gave them the same rights and responsibilities as a married couple under British law. QT unsuccessfully applied for her own dependent and employment visas at least three times.

The final rejection was in June 2014. Underpinning the immigration departments decision was its definition of spouse, which was based on monogamy and the concept of a married couple consisting of one male and one female, the court documents show.

QT challenged that decision in court in May 2015, saying the decision had discriminated against her sexual orientation, and also infringed upon articles in Hong Kongs constitution. That challenge was knocked back by High Court Judge Thomas Au in March 2016.

Speaking in the governments defense, lawyer Monica Carss-Frisk said on Friday  the final day of the appeal hearings  that QTs civil partnership isnt recognized by Hong Kong law. QT is seeking the ability and benefits as a married couple, said Carss-Frisk. They are actually unmarried.

The previous day, QTs lawyer Rose cited a separate government policy introduced last June by which same-sex spouses and civil partners of consulate officials would now be permitted to stay as dependents, the SCMP reported on Friday.

It illustrates there is no practical or legal difficulty at all in extending recognition to all same-sex dependents, the newspaper quoted her as saying. Rose has previously represented News Corp. and Julian Assange, the founder of the WikiLeaks website. Alfred Liu, Darren Boey, Bloomberg
The head of Thailands military government has used his special powers to cut through regulations and launch work on a much-delayed 179 billion baht (USD5.27 billion) joint Thai-Chinese project for a new railway from Bangkok to the northeast.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha utilized Article 44 of the constitution imposed by the military after it seized power in May 2014. It allows him to issue orders overriding any other branch of government to promote public order and unity. Rights groups say it is essentially martial law in all but name.

The order, published late Thursday, covers construction of 252 kilometers to Nakhon Ratchasima. Extensions would eventually link Thailands northern and southern borders, upgrading an antiquated system.

The rail project is part of Chinas One Belt, One Road project allowing cross-border development and connectivity among Asian countries, Africa, China and Europe.

Rail links are an important element of the concept, with China promoting expensive rail projects in Asia and Africa.

Prayuth said Thursday that his order will allow Chinese architects and engineers to begin work on the project without the need to meet Thai licensing restrictions.

The order also overrides a rule mandating that projects of over 5 billion baht ($147 million) be overseen by a committee and bypasses regulations about building in protected forest land, among other issues.

Transport Minister Arkhom Tempittayapaisith said last week that once the order was issued, Thailand and China would be able to sign an agreement to begin construction by July.

The junta has been criticized for its frequent usage of Article 44, which was supposed to be for situations endangering public order.

Dr. Aksornsri Phanishsarn, director of the Thai Chinese Strategic Research Center, said she supports the railway construction project because it will be a good opportunity for Thailand to improve its railway system. However, she strongly disagreed with the governments use of Article 44.

I do not agree with any attempts to invoke the absolute power of the current Thai government under Article 44 for whatever reasons, she said. Kankanit Wiriyasajja, Bangkok, AP
Southeast Asias jihadis who fought by the hundreds for the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria now have a different battle closer to home in the southern Philippines. Its a scenario raising significant alarm in Washington.

The recent assault by IS-aligned fighters on the Philippine city of Marawi has left more than 300 people dead, exposing the shortcomings of local security forces and the extremist groups spreading reach in a region where counterterrorism gains are coming undone.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told Congress last week a long- running U.S. military operation to help Philippine forces contain extremist fighters was canceled prematurely three years ago. Small numbers of U.S. special forces remain in an advise and assist role, and the U.S. is providing aerial surveillance to help the Philippines retake Marawi, an inland city of more than 200,000 people.

But lawmakers, including from President Donald Trumps Republican Party, want a bigger U.S. role, short of boots on the ground. They fear the area is becoming a new hub for Islamist fighters from Southeast Asia and beyond.

I dont know that ISIS are directing operations there but they are certainly trying to get fighters into that region, said Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, using another acronym for the group. We need to address the situation. It should not get out of control.

U.S. intelligence and counterterrorism officials note that IS has publicly accepted pledges from various groups in the Philippines. In a June 2016 video, it called on followers in Southeast Asia to go to the Philippines if they cannot reach Syria.

About 40 foreigners, mostly from neighboring Indonesia and Malaysia, have been among 500 involved in fighting in Marawi, the Philippine military says. Reports indicate at least one Saudi, a Chechen and a Yemeni killed. In all, more than 200 militants have died in the standoff, now in its fourth week.

Video obtained by The Associated Press from the Philippine military indicates an alliance of local Muslim fighters, aligned with IS, are coordinating complex attacks. They include the Islamic States purported leader in Southeast Asia: Isnilon Hapilon, a Filipino on Washingtons list of most-wanted terrorists, with a USD5 million bounty on his head.

U.S. officials are assessing whether any of the estimated 1,000 Southeast Asians who traveled to Iraq and Syria in recent years are fighting in Catholic-majority Philippines. They fear ungoverned areas in the mostly Muslim region around Marawi could make the area a terror hub as in the 1990s.

Then, the Philippines was a base of operations for al-Qaida leaders like Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and Ramzi Yousef, who plotted in 1994-95 to blow up airliners over the Pacific. The plot was foiled. But the same men were instrumental in the 9/11 attacks on the United States.

Other nations share the fear. Singapore recently warned of IS exerting a radicalizing influence well beyond what that of al-Qaida and Jemaah Islamiyah ever mustered. Jemaah Islamiyah carried out major terror attacks around the region in the 2000s. IS already has been linked to attacks in Indonesia and Malaysia, and foiled plots inSingapore, this past year.

This month, Mattis told the regions defense chiefs that together we must act now to prevent this threat from growing. In Congress this past week, he stressed intelligence sharing and nations like Singapore sharing the burden, rather than deploying U.S. troops.

More than 500 U.S. special forces were based in the Mindanao region from 2002 to 2014, advising and training Filipino forces against the Abu Sayyaf, a group notorious for bombings and kidnappings. When it ended, Philippine and U.S. officials voiced concern the U.S. withdrawal could lead to a resurgence of a renewed terrorist threat, the RAND Corp. later reported. Months before the withdrawal, Abu Sayyaf pledged support to IS.

Supporting the Philippines isnt straightforward in Washington. President Rodrigo Duterte is accused of overlooking and even condoning indiscriminate killings by his forces in a war on drugs. Thousands have died. But that campaign has involved mainly police and anti-narcotic forces, not the military leading the anti- IS fight.

Still, the Philippine government is partly to blame for Marawis violence, said Zachary Abuza, a Southeast Asia expert at the National War College. He said the root cause was the governments failure to fulfill a 2014 peace agreement with the nations largest Muslim insurgency, which fueled recruitment for IS-inspired groups. AP
President Donald Trumps announcement of a tougher line toward Cuba has delighted hardliners on the island, who say it reveals the long-held U.S. aim of imposing American will on Cuba and justifies their wariness toward Washington.

The presidents speech to Cuban exiles in Miami has also dismayed moderates who were working with pro-engagement Americans but now fear association with a policy of open hostility toward the communist system could make them targets for repression.

Trump and the Cuban-American Congress members who helped design the new policy pledged on Friday that it would block the flow of U.S. cash toward military-linked enterprises and direct it toward independent businesses, with the long-term aim of overturning President Raul Castros government.

Members of Cubas small but vibrant independent civil society say they fear the new policy will do more harm than good.

Trumps become the independent business peoples new enemy because  even though hes said he wants to help entrepreneurs  this new policy alienates entrepreneurs from the government, said Angel Rodriguez, a 27-year-old sociologist who works with the Catholic Church in entrepreneurship-training programs. That could bring them under fire now, and they could find themselves much weaker.

Trumps new policy retains key aspects of Obamas reforms, leaving full embassies in Washington and Havana and letting U.S. cruise and airlines continue service to Cuba, although it will make travel harder by requiring most Americans to come in groups and banning payments to military- linked businesses.

Former President Barack Obamas 2014 declaration of detente with Cuba prompted hundreds of islanders to launch media, entrepreneurship and cultural projects that were outside control of the state but within the bounds of law, unlike the directly confrontational tactics of Cubas small dissident groups.

Some of those new groups came under intense pressure during detente, particularly after Obamas May 2016 visit to the island. Despite bitter criticism and personal attacks, most have continued to operate, many with a degree of support from U.S. individuals and foundations that would have been impossible before the reestablishment of diplomatic relations.

Many government officials and their supporters saw the Obama policy as an attempt to lull Cuba into complacency and undermine the foundations of a communist system based in part of near-total control of virtually every aspect of society, from animal-rights groups to the film industry.

Trumps hostile language toward the Castro government and his literal onstage embrace of Cuban-American exiles and Cuban dissidents has unmasked the United States true intentions toward Cuba and made it easier for the government to instill unity across Cuban society, pro-government figures said Saturday.

Faced with your words, the Cuban people stand up and, their flag held high, sing their war anthem! said a Facebook post by Jennifer Bello Martinez, the head ofCubas official Federation of University Students and, at 25, the youngest member of the powerful Council of State.

If I were the Cuban government Id put Trumps speech up in schools. Id transcribe it in the history books. Id print a copy for every Cuban, said Iroel Sanchez, a pro-government columnist and blogger who was fiercely critical of Obama. In less than an hour he showed Cubans how U.S. policy works [] The effect of this new policy will be strengthening the revolutionary leadership and seeing that its right. This will galvanize things.

Among the few Cubans on the island who praised Trump was Berta Soler, a leader of the dissident group Ladies in White who said she was prevented by the government from flying to Miami to attend the speech in person.

The Cuban regime will always find an excuse to blame the U.S. government, she said. After detente the people felt hopeful but there were no changes. The relationship must have conditions.

One of the most criticized, though tolerated, projects that have flourished since the declaration of detente is Cuba Posible, a think tank and online magazine dedicated to creating space for amicable dialogue about the future of Cuba. Its founders frequently travel overseas, including to conferences in the U.S.

President Trumps policy makes itself, once again, part of the old policy of pressure and strangulation of the Cuban people, founders Lenier Gonzalez and Roberto Veiga wrote Saturday. Its a continuation of old dynamics of confrontation that are immoral, unjust and illegitimate.

The Cuban government has given Trumps speech extensive coverage on official media. A young state journalist who described himself as loyal to the government but eager to see faster, broader reforms told The Associated Press that the government saw the speech as the best course in anti-imperialism that could be given.

This is the dream of the hard- line here, the journalist said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak with the foreign press. Its managed to unite the left and the center in Cuba. Michael Weissenstein, Havana, AP
Last Friday, 15 students and staff from the University of Macau met with the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, as part of the annual study mission to Europe held by the European Union Academic Programme in Macao (EUAP-M).

The delegation also involved three representatives from the Institute of European Studies of Macau (IEEM), including its president, Jose Luis de Sales Marques.

Rebelo de Sousas speech on the significance of European studies in the current international context, delivered during the meeting, was the highlight of the visit to Europe, according to a statement from EUAP-M. At the end of the audience with the president, the group briefly greeted the Prime Minister of Portugal, Antonio Costa, who was arriving at the Presidential Palace for a meeting with Rebelo de Sousa. The group also met the Secretary of State in Charge of European Affairs, Margarida Marques, and other politicians.

On Friday, the delegation visited the permanent exhibition of the National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon and attended an international conference about the One Belt, One Road initiative, held at the School of Economics and Management of the University of Lisbon.

The study mission to Europe also included a three-day trip to Brussels, where the group visited the European Commission as well as the European External Action Service. The students also visited the Belvue Museum, which features exhibits about the history of the Kingdom of Belgium, and the recently opened House of the European History, established by an initiative of the European Parliament.

Students and staff also attended a conference held at the Institute for European Studies of the Free University of Brussels about the consequences of Brexit for Europe and China. The speakers were researchers of the host organization and Master of European Studies graduates, a qualification jointly awarded by the University of Macau and IEEM.

Yesterday, students went to Coimbra, where they visited the National Museum of Machado Castro. Visits to the University of Coimbra and to the Museum of Serralves are also scheduled.

The annual study mission to Europe is part of the EUAP- Ms outreach activities. The delegation comprises undergraduate and postgraduate students from the programs in European studies, international relations, law and communication. Accompanying them are professors and lecturers from the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Faculty of Law.

Also included in the delegation are winners of competitions organized by the EUAP-M, including the Model European Union, a pedagogical simulation in which students play the role of heads of state of the 28 member-states to recreate the decision-making process of the European Council.
SOUTH EAST ASIA Jihadis who fought by the hundreds for the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria now have a different battle closer to home in the southern Philippines. Its a scenario raising significant alarm in Washington, where lawmakers want a bigger U.S. role, short of boots on the ground. They fear the area is becoming a new hub for Islamist fighters from Southeast Asia and beyond.

PHILIPPINES The government said yesterday that it would suspend offensives against communist guerrillas, aiming to foster talks for a cease-fire accord and a peace pact with New Peoples Army rebels.

THAILAND The head of Thailands military government has used his special powers to cut through regulations and launch work on a much-delayed 179 billion baht (USD5.27 billion) joint Thai-Chinese project for a new railway from Bangkok to the northeast.

VANUATU President Baldwin Lonsdale, who had been the leader of the archipelago-nation since 2014, has died after a sudden heart attack at the age of 67.

INDIA Six police were killed Friday when rebels fighting against Indian rule ambushed a police vehicle in Indian-controlled Kashmir, while two civilians were killed and several others injured in clashes that erupted during a gunbattle between rebels and government forces in the disputed region.

TURKEY A prosecutor says 731 soldiers at a western base were sent to the hospital with food poisoning and 21 people from the company that provided the food have been detained.

ROMANIAs ruling party submitted a no-confidence vote against its own government yesterday after it withdrew its support for the prime minister.

GERMANY The head of the European Commission says he wants an official commemoration of former Chancellor Helmut Kohl, the leader responsible for Germanys reunification, who died on Friday at his home in Ludwigshafen.

CUBA President Donald Trumps announcement of a tougher line toward Cuba has delighted hardliners on the island, who say it reveals the long-held U.S. aim of imposing American will on Cuba and justifies their wariness toward Washington. The presidents speech to Cuban exiles in Miami has also dismayed moderates who were working with pro-engagement Americans.

BRAZIL Embattled President Michel Temer exchanged furious denunciations of corruption Saturday with meatpacking billionaire Joesley Batistawho  himself under investigation for fraud  over bribes paid to politicians in exchange for political favors.
BOISE  The Idaho State Department of Agriculture has selected 13 specialty crop projects totaling more than $1.5 million to submit for funding approval by the U.S. Department of Agricultures Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

Twenty-six grant applications were received by ISDA seeking a total of over $2.8 million. A panel of industry representatives with experience in agriculture, business management and science reviewed and scored all applications, providing input to ISDA for the final selection. Projects selected for funding include research and promotional and educational activities for such commodities as potatoes, apples, wine, onions and beans.

This years grant applications were more competitive than ever before, said department Director Celia Gould. While we didnt have funding for every project, the ones that were selected represent some excellent activities that will have a significant impact on specialty crops in Idaho.

The departments plan, including the 13 selected projects, was submitted in early June. Final approval from the federal agency is expected by the end of September.

Specialty crops are defined to include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture as well as nursery crops including floriculture. Eligible projects are required to benefit more than one organization and must solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Many projects focus on increasing crop sustainability, disease control, and marketing and promotion.

Since 2009, the state has funded more than $9 million for over 100 projects.

The projects included in the State Plan are listed below by applicant, project title and funds requested.

Boise State University; Fast, Accurate and Economical Evaluation of Acrylamide Content in Fried Potato Products; $121,556

Idaho Apple Commission; Rootstock and Thinning Effects on Yield and Quality to Enhance Profitability in Honey Crisp Apple; $163,409

Idaho Bean Commission; Increasing Market Share for Idaho Beans in Latin America; $54,650

Idaho Bean Commission; Increasing Diversity and Choice in the Peruano/Yellow Dry Bean Trade; $133,823

Idaho Potato Commission, International Marketing and Promotions  Business Development and Market Maintenance; $106,828

Idaho Potato Commission; Natural Compounds as Potato Sprout Inhibitors and Nematicides; $116,464

Idaho Preferred; Marketing Idaho Specialty Crops through Idaho Preferred Advertising, Social Media, Public Relations and Retail Promotions; $127,563.88

Idaho State University; Implementing Unmanned Aircraft Systems to detect crop viruses using hyperspectral remote sensing and machine learning; $161,175

Idaho Wine Commission; Providing Educational Opportunities for the Idaho Wine & Grape Industry to Increase Expertise; $71,702

Idaho Wine Commission; Raising Awareness of the Idaho Wine Industry Through Enhanced Marketing and Trade Communications; $138,497

Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Committee; Expanding Exports, Creating Demand and Increasing Sales in International Markets; $72,200

University of Idaho; Predictive Diagnostic Methods and Soil Health Measures for Sustainable Management of Soil-Borne Diseases of Onion; $108,828

University of Idaho; Early Warning Systems for Detection of Foliar Potato Pathogens Using Spore Sampling and Weather Data; $198,925.42

Questions about the grant program may be directed to Eric Boyington at eric.boyington@isda.idaho.gov or call 208-332-8537 or 208-332-8500.
TWIN FALLS  Idaho lost 2,200 workers last month  and the Magic Valley lost 330  making an already tight labor force even more limited.

The Idaho Department of Labor released preliminary estimates June 16 showing a statewide unemployment decrease that underscored an increased pressure among employers competing for workers.

Idahos unemployment rate in May was 3.2 percent, the lowest its been since September 2007, Research Analyst Supervisor Craig Shaul said. In the Magic Valley, the rate rose slightly from last month to 2.7 percent.

But analysts dont think more people leaving the state is the reason behind the shrinking labor force.

It looks like most of that is retirees that are choosing to leave the workforce, Shaul said.

That makes sense given the good economy, Regional Economist Jan Roeser said.

People are feeling empowered, and with empowerment, people are feeling comfortable making that decision, she said. That doesnt mean theyre permanently out of the workforce.

The Magic Valley had 95 more unemployment claims than in April. The unemployment rates in Blaine, Cassia, Gooding, Lincoln and Minidoka counties increased; Jerome Countys stayed the same, and Twin Falls and Camas counties reported a drop in unemployment.

Twin Falls Mayor Shawn Barigar, who is in Washington, D.C., for a foreign direct investment summit, said that as more companies expand in Idaho, the population base doesnt entirely support the new jobs.

Were always looking for ways to make sure were training the people we do have in the Magic Valley, and encouraging people to move to the Magic Valley to enjoy the lifestyle we all have, he said.

Still, low unemployment is not just a local phenomenon. With fewer job applicants, employers could be forced to look at restructuring, Roeser said.

At some point in time, if theres not enough people to do the jobs, we find alternative solutions, she said.

That could mean more automation  which, while decreasing jobs, has the benefit of creating higher skilled positions.

With economic development, Roeser said, the region cant take its foot off the gas.

Heres a breakdown of the May 2017 unemployment rates, by county

Blaine: 2.7 percent

Camas: 3 percent

Cassia: 2.6 percent

Gooding: 2.5 percent

Jerome: 2.6 percent

Lincoln: 3.2 percent

Minidoka: 2.7 percent

Twin Falls: 2.9 percent
RUPERT  Minidoka County Clerk Patty Temple has announced she will retire in September.

The Minidoka County Republican Central Committee will accept resumes until July 31 from qualified applicants to fill the office, Lucky Bourn, chairman of the central committee said in a statement.

Temple has worked for the county for 30 years and will retire on Sept. 30. Prior to election as clerk she worked in the county auditor and assessors offices.

Temple said after retirement she plans to spend more time with her three grandsons in Montana.

It will be a big adjustment for me, she said.

Temple said she will also miss the friendships she has made with other county clerks in the state.

Temple was elected as clerk in 2010, a job that includes clerk of the district court, auditor, recorder and clerk to the county commissioners.

She makes us all look good with her efficiency, Bob Moore county commissioner chairman said. She is such an asset to our county.

The central committee will interview applicants and select the top three. Those three names will be submitted to the Minidoka County commissioners, who will appoint a person to fill the office.

Because the county clerks office is an elected position, the person appointed will have to be elected in the primary election in May 2018 to retain the office.

Moore said interviews of candidates for appointment are planned for August.

It would be nice to have someone in place for a couple weeks before she leaves, Moore said.

Shes been an amazing clerk, Sheryl Koyle, commissioner said, who has known Temple since the first grade.

Temple is often the first person to arrive at work in the morning, she said.

She is unbelievable. She is known statewide in the clerks association for her knowledge and dedication. The county runs smoothly because of her hard work.

Resumes should include education, employment history along with personal and professional references and may be mailed to Lucky Bourn, Republican Central Committee, P.O. Box 368, Rupert, Idaho, 83350.
The interior ministry Sunday announced one police officer was killed in a roadside bomb attack near Maadi, a posh suburb of the Egyptian capital.

A police vehicle transporting First Lieutenant Ali Abdelkhaliq, another colleague and three conscripts was hit by a blast from a bomb planted by the roadside, an official from the ministry told state-run MENA news agency.

The bomb was detonated remotely, and an initial examination suggested it was detonated using a mobile phone SIM card, the official said.

The passengers sustained injuries in the attack which occurred mid-day.

Maadi is one of the posh districts of Cairo housing several diplomats, teachers, expatriates and rich people.

No group claimed responsibility for the attack. The North African country has been facing insurgency from militants in the restive Sinai province since the removal of Islamist President Mohamed Morsi today in prison.

Though attacks concentrate in the Peninsula, they have spilled into capital Cairo and other cities.

Authorities have accused outlawed Muslim Brotherhood for funding the militant groups and directing the attacks.
UN Secretary Generals special envoy for Libya Martin Kobler is expected to be replaced by former Lebanese culture minister Ghassan Salame. The would-be appointment of Salame would end an almost four month search for a replacement after former Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad was rejected by the US as a replacement to the German diplomat.

Salame is expected to officially take up the post at the end of this month at the expiry of Koblers term. The term has been extended as the search for a replacement was going on.

The UN has had a difficult task appointing a special envoy for the war torn North African country as he is understood to be the 29th person offered the job since Fayyads rejection.

A senior security council diplomat said over 20 people were approached and either ruled themselves out  i.e. they werent available  or they were ruled outby one of the Security Council members. Appointments are made on consensus at the UN Security Council.

The outgoing special envoy will be remembered for sealing the Libyan Political Agreement (LPA) although he failed to persuade the Tobruk-based House of Representatives (HoR) to approve it.

In another development, General Najmi al-Naqou, commander of the Libyan presidential guard, said they have forwarded a formal request to the Security Council, two weeks ago, for them to be exempted from the arms embargo imposed on the country and they are expecting a positive decision  in the coming days.
Hamass Deputy Leader said the resistance group, fighting for an independent Palestinian State, is not politically interested in another round of armed hostilities with Israel. We, in Hamas, do not initiate wars and we do not expect one, this is our political assessment, Khalil al-Hayya said.

His statement means that the Gaza Strip could look forward to relative calm since the last confrontation with Israel dates back to 2014. The deputy leader who is based in Gaza said we do not expect war because we are not interested and the occupiers also say they are not interested.

Hamas seems to be adopting a new agenda in pursuance of its ambitions by tempering its militant approach for the establishment of a Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital. There have been fears that tensions could rise after the Palestinian Authority (PA) requested that Israel reduce its electricity supply to the Gaza Strip.

Hayya said such moves by the PA strengthen their belief that their plight is being hijacked by President Mahmoud Abbas and that unites us all in Gaza. He added that they wont stand idly by as the energy cuts will lead to deprivation of medicine. The deputy leader is calling for the establishment of a national rescue front to oppose the PAs request.

Hayya also revealed that talks with Muhammad Dahlan, a discharged Fatah leader in 2011, have led to the clearing of a specific way to go on with our relationship to complete humanitarian and joint responsibility works we started years ago. He claimed that their work with Dahlan is geared towards social interests that Abbas has crippled.

As part of efforts to strengthen ties with Cairo, Hayya said securing the borders they share with Egypt is a joint interest and Hamas is keen, determined and has the ability to prevent any harm to reach Egypt from Gaza. Egypt, which controls the southern border of Gaza has been at loggerheads with Hamas over perceived support for Muslim Brotherhood members in Egypt and an Islamic insurgency in the Sinai Peninsula.
Chicken will be the best-positioned protein due to its low price position in times of pressure on consumer spending power but rises in production costs and the long-term impact of COVID-19 threaten to disrupt the sector, according to Rabobank.
@alextdaugherty

Florida Republican Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen introduced a bill on Friday that would establish a National Latino Museum on or near the National Mall in Washington D.C., a longtime goal for some members of Congress. The effort comes less than a year after the National Museum of African American History and Culture opened up near the Washington Monument after years of planning.

Ros-Lehtinen along with other Latino members of Congress like Rep. Jose Serrano, D-N.Y., and Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., are longtime proponents of a Latino American museum. Texas Republican Sen. John Cornyn also co-sponsored the Senate version of Ros-Lehtinen's bill with Menendez.

Latinos have made incredible contributions to our nation in every field and endeavor," Ros-Lehtinen said in a statement. "This bill is the first step in the right direction to make this museum a reality. Together, in a united bi-partisan manner we will make this happen. As the first Hispanic woman to serve in the Florida House, Florida Senate, and Congress, I know that while we have made great strides, much more is left to be done and it us up to us to show young Latinos and Latinas that they can achieve great things with hard work and dedication.

Ros-Lehtinen first introduced bipartisan legislation to jump start a museum project in 2003 with former Rep. Xavier Becerra, D-Calif. A 1994 Smithsonian report found that the world's largest museum complex failed to properly recognize Hispanic contributions to art, culture and science.

The non-profit seeking to create a new museum praised Ros-Lehtinen's longtime interest in establishing a national Latino museum.

"Upon her retirement, the Friends of the American Latino Museum would like to thank Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for her years of service and vision," the Latino Museum said in a statement. "As the first Latina in Congress, she has earned a rightful place in the future National Smithsonian American Latino Museum she has long fought for."
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Two local cooperatives and the bank they work with have contributed $20,000 to the Helmville Rodeo grandstand project.

Blackfoot Communications and Missoula Electric Co-op have donated $5,000 apiece, and each was awarded another $5,000 from CoBank, their Denver-based cooperative bank, to give to the restoration effort. CoBanks share came from its Sharing Success Program.

The announcement comes on the heels of last month's news of a $15,500 state tourism matching grant and a $10,000 donation from the Town Pump Charitable Foundation.

The Helmville Rodeo Club needs $80,000 needed to restore the wooden grandstands that have been a landmark on the Geary Brothers Ranch in Helmville since 1927. Concrete work has begun, and locally sourced and milled lumber is on site with an eye on completing restoration before the annual Labor Day Rodeo Sept. 3-4.

A grandstand auction and dinner is set for June 30 at the Helmville Community Center and auction items are still being solicited. Tickets are $50 for a steak dinner and $10 for a hamburger dinner. To purchase tickets, call Bill Baker at 406-793-5746.

To learn more or to donate auction items, check out the Helmville Rodeo Club's Facebook page or contact helmvillerodeoclub@gmail.com.
When clinical sexologist and sex educator Lindsey Doe left the University of Montana, she feared instruction about human sexuality would end.

Doe, who had taught UMs Human Sexuality class for about eight years until she was laid off in 2014, said too many students arrived at UM ignorant of the basics of sexuality.

A year before she left UM, Doe went to Missoula's Hank Green  known for his popular YouTube channels Vlogbrothers (which he produces with his brother John Green) and SciShow  and asked him to help her produce videos about sexual education.

In May 2013, Does YouTube channel "Sexplanations," was created. Four years later, the channel has more than 300,000 subscribers. Doe covers everything from circumcision to having sex when disabled. She talks about not expecting quid pro quo when it comes to sex acts. Her videos get anywhere from 30,000 views for a question-and-answer show to more than a million when she had a pelvic exam on camera.

This June, she began recording a podcast with the same name as her YouTube channel, giving her audience another avenue for engagement.

People are doing things that take up their eyeballs, Doe said, and the podcast lets them listen while they're otherwise occupied.

Doe has a masters degree in health and human performance from the University of Montana and a doctorate in human sexuality from the unaccredited Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality in San Francisco. She maintains a clinical sexologist practice in downtown Missoula.

Since Doe hit puberty, she knew she wanted to educate people about sex. Her body was going through changes she didnt fully understand. She remembered learning about pubic hair and menstruation in middle school and can kind of remember a condom demonstration in high school.

No one was explaining the hormonal messaging I would get and what to do about it," she said.

When she taught at the university, some of her students didn't know simple ways of avoiding a urinary tract infection, Doe said. Instead they had to buy antibiotics for a preventable infection. Students would approach her distraught because they had contracted a sexually transmitted disease without actual intercourse.

People need to learn fundamentals of sex education just like any other subject, Doe said.

Montana's Office of Public Instruction doesnt mandate a specific sexual health education program. High school requirements mention teaching students about the natural body changes of reproductive health, though on average most students have already gone through puberty by the time they are 14 and 15 years old, about the age of high school freshmen.

In Does ideal world, kids would be as comfortable talking about their reproductive anatomy as they are with the rest of their body.

We get nowhere if were afraid to talk, Doe said.

While UM's Human Sexuality class continued for a few years after Doe left, the anthropology department does not have the course listed for the 2017-2018 school year, according to the schools academic planner. The biology and health departments also dont have any sexual health classes listed.
ABC/Randy HolmesDuring an appearance at the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge Monday, Paramore performed a cover of the Drake hit "Passionfruit," a track from the rapper's latest release, More Life. You can watch the performance now on YouTube.

Along with the cover, Paramore also played their own track "Hard Times," the lead single from their new album, After Laughter.

Paramore will embark on a full-length North American tour this fall in support of After Laughter, starting September 6 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
HAMILTON  For the first time in at least 40 years, the Bitterroot Shriners wont be serving burgers and hot dogs this summer at the Ravalli County Fair.

Also missing in action will be the American Legion, the Rotary Club, the Victor Future Farmers of America, the Soroptimists and Light House Ministries, according to fairgrounds Managing Director Cryss Anderson, in part due to changes in accounting and insurance procedures by the fairgrounds board.

John Mikesell with the Shriners said the changes posed too much of a hassle for many groups.

Thats too bad, because it used to be a good place for the groups to make some money, Mikesell said. But now theres so many hoops to jump through that its not worth it anymore.

Adding to the decision to withdraw is an increase throughout the years in the number of vendors. Without a similar increase in attendance, that meant the profit pie was sliced into smaller pieces.

There used to be about 12 fair groups, now its closer to 40 food booths, Mikesell said. People will spend the same amount on food, but youre dividing that among many more booths. Its not worth it for the hours it takes. We have to pay for the Shriners admission at the gate to have them work the booth, then theres the extra insurance cost, and some of the old timers arent very good on the technology stuff with the new cash and credit accounting procedures.

Non-profit groups pay the fairground 12 percent of their gross sales, which covers the utilities, garbage disposal and similar costs. This year, vendors are required to accept debit and credit cards rather than just cash, and must account for their sales electronically.

All vendors initially also were required to carry a waiver of subrogation with their insurance, which would allow the fairgrounds to be compensated by the vendors insurance company in case of a loss.

The Ravalli County Commission is lifting the subrogation requirement on a case-by-case basis, according to commissioners Ray Hawk and Greg Chilcott.

We look at events being proposed at the fairgrounds and try to make a common-sense determination on whether its going to have high liability, Chilcott said. Weve had the fairground manager come in and make the case.

We see one of our roles in managing local county government is mitigating liability to our taxpayers. We probably overdid it for everybody on the waiver of subrogation.

Carol Peterson, president of the Sons of Norway, wrote a letter to the commission in April outlining their concerns, which included the waiver of subrogation, as well as a lack of faith in the board that we are reporting accurately. That change prompted a unanimous vote by her group to consider withdrawing from the fair this year.

The commissions decision to waive the subrogation requirement for her group changed their minds, and once again theyll be selling lefse at the fair.

Im glad the county commission worked with us; the fair board didnt, Peterson said. It seems like theyre trying to pay for a whole years expenses with the fair. It used to be you could go to the fair to support the local non-profits, but now theres a lot of commercial groups and it seems like the fair board is picking them over non-profits, and theyre not maintaining the buildings.

Anderson, in her first year as the fairgrounds managing director, said the changes are necessary, especially after voters failed to pass a mill levy in 2014 that would have generated about $400,000 per year. The levy was intended to allow for free admission, and cover operating expenses and infrastructure improvements. After deducting the entry fee income and countys contribution, the end result from the levy would have been about $115,000 in regular income for the fairgrounds.

Our budget is down and our costs are up, Anderson said, noting that attendance at the fair fluctuates depending on the weather, smoke from wildfires, and whether Missoulas fair has free admittance. The Western Montana Fair dropped admission fees for 2017.

So many factors make it hard to predict how much money we get, so we had to get more creative on money, and fair food income is a large part of the budge,'' Anderson said. "We looked at historical trends and thought we could increase revenue, and those booths could increase their revenue by taking credit cards. Most people have credit or debit cards, not cash, so the vendors are losing out.

However, forcing the vendors to accept plastic cards met with resistance, even after she offered free training for the vendors. Many felt the fairground board didnt trust the vendors accounting.

Mikesell added that he thinks the board wants to monitor vendors daily sales, adding to the feeling of distrust.

It was like the fair board thought we were cheating them, and they werent getting their fair share, he said. Were not business owners; were just Shriners, trying to make a buck.

Anderson counters that knowing the day-to-day sales of vendors allows her to help with promotions and contests to encourage people to shop at various vendors. It also allows them to track inventories, so vendors can better prepare for the following year.

We have fair board members willing to set up classes and help them learn about using credit and debit cards, she said. I have offered and offered, and no one takes me up on it. Its frustrating.

She notes that the uptick in commercial food vendors adds variety for fairgoers, and expects that to continue in the future, as more groups opt to work out of mobile food trucks that are easy to set up and break down. In fact, theyre considering tearing down one of the old food vendor buildings, and replacing it with a pole barn that will more easily accommodate food trucks.

Commercial food vendors also pay 12 percent of their gross sales to the fairgrounds, and are expected to donate another 8 to 10 percent to a non-profit organization in order to give back to the community.

The purpose of the fair is to bring everyone together to show off products and groups. Sometimes its time for fresh blood, Anderson said. This is a public place, and we need to be held accountable for our budget.

Its a big year for change in the fairgrounds. But we are still the best family friendly fair in the West.
POLEBRIDGE  A building boom has hit the North Fork of the Flathead, and for once, the neighbors are celebrating.

Theyre building a town right in our town, Polebridge Merc owner Will Hammerquist said of the colony of cliff swallows that has claimed eminent domain on the eaves of his solar barn. They arrived about two weeks ago. And do you see any bugs? Look at what theyve done to the mosquitoes.

Indeed, Polebridge feels remarkably bug-free compared to the forests of Glacier National Park just minutes to the west. The tiny birds feed on flying insects. What appear to be drunkenly random flight paths actually trace life-and-death pursuits of food on the wing.

While longtime residents along the North Fork of the Flathead River routinely resist new construction in their back of beyond, the cliff swallow complex receives no complaints. That could stem from the presence of hundreds more gourd-shaped swallow nests hidden under the namesake bridge crossing the Flathead between Polebridge and Glacier. An extreme version of the snowbird resident, cliff swallows migrate continentally between North and South America chasing the warm weather.

Their range has increased greatly over the past 100 years, GNP wildlife biologist Lisa Bate said. With all the human structures heading north, their range has expanded north. They used to be limited to natural overhangs and canyons and cliff walls. Now look under any concrete bridge over a river, and youll find cliff swallows underneath.

The home-building activity resembles a human construction site as seen in time-lapse video. The swallows sizzle around a mud puddle Hammerquist unintentionally created in another maintenance project, popping above the tall grass like seeds toasting in a frying pan. Singly or in pairs, they whiz back to the barn eave, sometimes dangling a bit of grass in a beak. With stubby, knife-pointed wings they perform a few acrobatic maneuvers before deciding which nest to work on. Then depending on whether that nest is already occupied, they either fly straight in or hover just outside with an ease that would make a Marine Harrier jump-jet pilot weep in envy.

Earlier this month, the most complete half-dozen nests clustered at the apex of the roof eave. At least a dozen more extended down each side in various states of completion. Some appeared fully rounded, while others looked like muddy half-eggshells stuck to the wood. Each nest comprises 900 and 1,200 swallow beak-fulls of mud.

Unlike their more solitary cousin barn swallows, cliff swallows live in tight colonies. The birds nests clump together like muddy honeycombs, and some swallows occasionally swap eggs into another mothers nest. While the Polebridge solar barn colony numbered perhaps 40 birds, Bate said individual communities as large as 3,700 have been reported.

While it looks as old as the surrounding buildings, the solar barn actually rose in 2015 to shelter a bank of batteries fed by a line of solar panels. The electricity they generate can provide more than 90 percent of Polebridges power needs, from its espresso machines to its refrigerators and the sound system for its occasional music festivals.

Theyre doing their thing and were doing our thing, Hammerquist said of the swallows. Its great to see them.
Last week, while Montanas junior U.S. Sen. Steve Daines was tilting at windmills with a useless and unconstitutional attempt to criminalize flag desecration, some of his Republican Senate colleagues were actually working for the interests of their constituents.

Namely, they were taking on Donald Trumps disastrous budget proposal that would slash vitally important programs at the Environmental Protection Agency. Given that Daines is supposed to be representing Montanas interests, it might be useful for someone to let him know we have the largest Superfund site in the nation  which is far from cleaned up  and the Superfund program is on Trumps chopping block.

Given the chaos in Washington, D.C., these days, its not entirely surprising that the tremendous reduction in the EPAs budget hasnt grabbed headlines. But for those who dont know, its a whopping 31 percent of the agencys operating budget. Likewise, given that Trump appointed Scott Pruitt, an avowed opponent of the EPA, to head the agency, it isnt surprising to see Pruitt defending the cuts. And why not? If you hate an agency, theres no better way to get rid of it than defunding crucial programs which will then both cripple the agencys ability to operate and increase public angst over its subsequent dysfunction.

Had Daines not been so busy foolishly grandstanding in D.C., he might have taken note that Anaconda-Deer Lodge Countys chief executive, Bill Everett, appointed a new Superfund Task Force last week to try and get some answers out of EPA on what many residents fear is the substandard remediation being foisted on them by a too-cozy relationship between the federal agency and ARCO. A couple of telling quotes in the Montana Standard reportage included the description of the task force as the voice of the people and a rather stunning admission by the EPAs site coordinator that the EPA could do better followed by I dont blame you for not trusting us.

There are plenty of good reasons for the people of Butte and Anaconda to not trust the EPA and ARCO, not the least of which is the manner in which the negotiations between the regulating agency and the corporation responsible for the cleanup have been held behind closed doors for years while the public most impacted by the decisions has been totally excluded.

Then there was the discovery of super high lead and arsenic concentrations in the playground sand at the city park. Its worth noting that the EPA had determined the concentrations to be at safe levels almost two decades ago. Likewise worth noting is that the investigations were not funded by EPA, as they should have been, but by Anaconda-Deer Lodge County which, to put it mildly, is not exactly sitting on an overflowing treasury these days. Yet, it was the taxes of the remaining citizens that paid to find out theyve been poisoning their own children thanks to the wink and nod relationship between EPA and ARCO.

In the meantime, Buttes Berkeley Pit continues to fill every day, adding to the 40 billion gallons of water so deadly it killed thousands of migrating snow geese that mistook it for a lake in December.

While other Republican senators were defending Superfund, the Great Lakes cleanup, pesticide and air quality regulatory programs, Daines was apparently too busy waving flags to take care of Montanas pressing needs as he pledged to do.

The grim fact is that theres plenty to be done in D.C. that immediately impacts Montanas future. Its about time Senator Daines put down the flag and got to work.
Free CPR training Thursday

St. James Healthcare is offering a free Hands-Only CPR training class at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 22, in the St. James Healthcare cafeteria. The class is offered as part the Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Cardiac Ready Communities program; however, certification is not available for this course.

According to the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, about 80 percent of heart attacks occur in private or residential settings, and if CPR is performed, the victims chances of survival can double and even triple. Unfortunately, only about 30% of these heart attack victims receive CPR from someone present at the time largely because of lack of training.

We are very pleased to be part of this DPHHS program and to offer it at no cost to our community, said Jay Doyle, Interim President at St. James Healthcare. As a certified Emergency Medical responder, I have seen first-hand how crucial fast and accurate medical response is when a heart attack occurs.

Participants will learn an effective hands-only CPR approach, and although certification is not available for this course, participants will be able to perform effective, lifesaving compressions by the end of the session.

Registration is not required; however, participants must be in the cafeteria by 5:30 pm. Details: Lynda DeWitt at 406-723-2406 or lynda.dewitt@sclhs.net.

Open house at Wound Healing Center

The Wound Healing Center at St. James Healthcare, a member of the Healogics network, will have an open house from 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, June 22, to help raise awareness of chronic wounds.

One of nearly 800 Healogics centers, St. James Healthcare offers advanced therapies to patients suffering from chronic wounds.

Weve treated over 200 people with non-healing wounds since we opened in November of 2015 and are proud that weve had a 94% heal rate for these wounds, said Dr. Thomas Aufiero, Vascular and Thoracic Surgeon and Medical Director for the St. James Wound Healing Center. We want share the benefits of advanced wound care with our community in order to heal more wounds and improve lives.

It is estimated that chronic wounds affect 6.7 million people in the U.S. and the incidence is rising, fueled by an aging population and increasing rates of diseases and conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and the late effects of radiation therapy. If left untreated, chronic wounds can lead to diminished quality of life and possible amputation of the affected limb.

Details: 406-723-2723.

Radio club to hold exercise

ANACONDA  The Anaconda Amateur Radio Club, with help from the Disaster and Emergency Services of Anaconda office, will be hold its annual Amateur Radio Relay League exercises from noon Saturday, June 24, through noon Sunday, June 25, at the Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Airport.

The Amateur Club call W7VNE will be on the air operating both CW (Morse Code) and voice. The public is invited to come and view the operations.

Gravelly Range wildflower tour July 6

The Forest Service will sponsor its 20th annual wildflower tour of the Gravelly Range on Wednesday, July 6, starting at 9 a.m.

The free tour winds through the Gravelly Range, which is noted for a spectacular, high-elevation display of wildflowers. Forest Service employees will help identify plants.

The tour will begin at the Forest Service office in Ennis. Participants generally drive their own high-clearance vehicles but can catch a ride with others if they dont want to take their own vehicle. Attendees are advised to dress for inclement weather and bring their lunch and water.

Details: Ennis at 406-682-4253 or the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Facebook page.

Home composting workshop Tuesday

A home composting workshop starts at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, at the National Center for Appropriate Technology demonstration farm, 3040 Continental Dr.

Learn to use lawn clippings, weeds, veggie scraps, and more to make your own compost. Details: johnw@ncat.org or John Wallace at 406-494-4572.

Food fair in Boulder

BOULDER  Friends of the Library will host an international and regional food fair from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 25, at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds volunteer hall in Boulder.

Cost is $5 per person; 5 years and under free. Featured will be appetizer-sized treats from many different countries. Each country will have a main dish and a dessert.
Butte has the highest water rates of Montanas seven largest cities, and some commissioners are concerned about the hit proposed increases will take on poor residents and those on fixed incomes.

One of those councilmen, John Sorich, said Monday that he wants county officials to come up with alternatives to the proposal they are pushing now that would raise water rates by 45 percent over three years.

County administrators, including Chief Executive Dave Palmer, say the rate increase is necessary to erase a widening shortfall in revenue needed to deliver clean water to Butte-Silver Bows 35,000 people.

Sorich says a significant number of them are poor, most residents already face higher property taxes because of the pool bond that passed last year, and proposed changes in road funding could raise fees on others.

Lets make them sharpen their pencils a little bit, Sorich said. Can we extend it out over five years, or are there other alternatives? Can we get a state loan that we could pay back?

Commissioner Jim Fisher said many residents are on fixed incomes and he wants county officials to look at the other side of the ledger.

In any business, we have to cut the overhead, Fisher told Budget Director Danette Gleason and Public Works Director Dave Schultz during a presentation on proposed rate hikes last week. You have to look at where we can reduce the spending.

Schultz said there are reasons why the average monthly bill of $50.79 in Butte-Silver Bow is higher than those in Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, and Missoula. Chief among them is that Butte sprung up around silver and copper mines and has to get water from more distant sources and treat it via three separate plants.

Cities are normally located near a convenient water supply, but that didnt happen here. Nearby water sources that existed were quickly contaminated and werent big enough anyway to support Buttes population.

Most cities have one water plant, Schultz said. Billings has one water plant for their 100,000 residents.

He also said Public Works crews are stretched thin already and must maintain an aging piping system, and there is nothing that comes to mind that would be very substantial in cutting costs.

Gleason said costs already exceed revenues because the last two years of a five-year rate increase authorized in 2011 were put aside. The deficit will jump from about $304,000 now to $866,000 in the fiscal year that starts July 1 because Buttes new Basin Creek treatment plant is now fully operational, she said.

The first year of the proposal, which would raise rates by 20 percent starting in October, would only fill the revenue hole that resulted from not imposing 10-percent increases as scheduled in prior years, she said.

We are not looking to make a bunch of money for shareholders or anything like that, she said. We are just trying to break even.

Under the proposal, the 20-percent hike this coming year would be followed by 10-percent increases in each of the following years. Because the increases would compound, they would actually raise rates by about 45 percent over three years from what they are now.

There are 12,550 connections in Butte, 56 percent of them with meters that measure the amount of water used and charge accordingly. All businesses are metered, but there are still 5,346 households that pay flat rates because they dont have meters.

The average flat-rate bill is $58 per month; the average metered bill $40.37. Under the proposal, flat bills would jump to $69.60 in October, $76.56 the next year, and $84.22 in the third year. Average meter bills would go to $48.44 in October, $53.29 the next year, and $58.62.

Average monthly bills in other sizable Montana cities range from $27 in Billings to $43.34 in Missoula. Rates in all six cities have gone up in the past five years and did so in Billings, Great Falls, and Helena in 2015. Helena officials are considering a 49-percent increase over five years.

Water consumption drops on average by 20 to 25 percent when meters are installed, Schultz said, and the county still has $2.2 million in mine-pollution settlement dollars to install meters to many households that dont have them.

County officials want to renew that effort starting next year, but it would cost an additional $1 million on top of the settlement money to meter everyone. Once everyone is on meters, consumption should go down somewhat, so costs should also decline, Schultz said.

But Fisher said he is skeptical about that.

Im not sold that metering is going to save that much money, he said. Im not sure the reduction in use will lead to that much in savings.

He said many people in Butte are on fixed incomes and at some point, we have to look at everything in this county to cut spending and overhead costs instead of raising rates, fees, and taxes.

Sorich asked Schultz where the county would get the extra $1 million to meter all households.

I dont know where we would find the funds other than ratepayers, Schultz said.

Sorich has formally asked Schultz and Gleason to give commissioners four or five alternatives to the current proposal that can be reviewed before a public hearing is held on the issue. A public hearing must precede any rate increase.

I truly understand some sort of rate increase is needed, but I believe this request would go a long way to help the commissioners and general public understand the current needs and future demands that are required, Sorich said in a missive to the council.
MUSCATINE  Compton's Fireworks opened in the Muscatine Mall parking lot Monday morning, and had more than 150 customers by lunchtime, according to the manager.

Compton's Fireworks, based in Missouri, is the first vendor to sell fireworks in Muscatine since the state legalized the limited sale and use last month. Fire Marshal Mike Hartman said about 12 vendors are working to receive a license and permit to sell fireworks in the city.

Manager Wilson McGowan said Compton's Fireworks has about 15 tents between Missouri and Iowa. He said Iowa and Muscatine's regulations are much stricter than those in Missouri, but he was able to obtain the necessary permits in a few weeks.

"We decided to gamble and see how it goes here," he said.

Compton's Fireworks had rows of fireworks, everything from single roman candles to large boxes of explosives, with prices up to $600.

McGowan said from the moment he opened, the business was "slammed."

With the immediate interest from Muscatine residents, McGowan said the tent will keep flexible hours throughout the sale season.

"If it's busy all night long, we'll sleep in shifts and keep going," he said.

Muscatine resident Rebecca Paulsen was one of the customers Monday. She said her family typically buys fireworks on vacation when it is legal.

Paulsen said she is happy to see sales in Muscatine, but is more worried about the safety risk.

"My first thought was I hope people use them safely and abide by the guidelines," she said. "But the kids love them and we use them with supervision."

The fire marshal also wants to emphasize the safety risk involved in using fireworks, and wants the public to know exactly when and where fireworks can be shot off this summer.

Fireworks can be sold this summer from permanent buildings from June 1 through July 8, and from temporary structures, such as tents, from June 10 through July 8.

On June 1, the Muscatine City Council agreed to limit the use of fireworks to one week surrounding July 4 and one week surrounding New Year's Eve.

Residents in the city of Muscatine may only use fireworks between July 1 and July 8, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. On July 4th weekend, however, people may shoot off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Fireworks may only be used on private property, and are prohibited from public streets, sidewalks and right-of-ways. Minors must have adult supervision, and the use of fireworks is forbidden for those under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Hartman said with the short time allotted to regulate the sale and use and inspect businesses, the fire department, state and other local agencies have been "scrambling."

"They've been working like crazy," he said. "Three months ago you couldn't even have a firecracker in the state legally."

Hartman said it has been a "challenging process" but he is grateful for the regulations in place to limit fireworks sales.

He said potential vendors have to submit a site plan with the state fire marshal, obtain a state license, receive an on-site inspection from the local fire marshal and receive a city permit.

Hartman said it is a lengthy process, but he appreciates the opportunity to have on-site inspections and ensure everything is safe for customers. He will also give periodic inspections to businesses after they begin sales.

He said most businesses applying for permits in the city are from out of state, such as Missouri, Nebraska, Alabama and Ohio.

Hartman is most concerned, though, about residents' use of fireworks.

"A tent opens and someone goes and buys $1,000 worth of stuff, I don't know if they're going to keep it in their closet," he said.

Hartman said some tips for fireworks safety are to supervise children closely and never let them light or hold fireworks. Also do not light fireworks indoors or near dry grass, and point fireworks away from homes.

"My goal is to get through the holiday without anyone getting hurt or a building get burned down," Hartman said.

Every person who purchases fireworks in the City of Muscatine will be handed a flier with information on when, where and how they can legally use fireworks.
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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 []
Les blattes ou cafards (Blatta orientalis) sont des insectes qui appartiennent a la famille des Blattoptera. Ils se caracterisent par leur forme allongee, leurs ailes []
Napa CPA firm Ganze and Company welcomes Bonny McClure as manager of client accounting services and Brent Perkins as a staff accountant.

McClure, previously a controller at Aldea Children & Family Services, will be in charge of managing the client accounting services division, which includes payroll, bookkeeping and controller services for the clients of Ganze and Company.

She graduated from University of Colorado, Boulder and has more than 10 years of experience working in accounting. She is also working on becoming a Certified Management Accountant.

Perkins, a graduate of Sonoma State, has more than eight years working as an accountant providing clients with write-up support and accounting services.

He has extensive experience working with nonprofit, hospitality and restaurant clients and is preparing to take the CPA exam.

Perkins will join McClure in the client accounting services division, which provides accounting and bookkeeping services to businesses and trusts in California and Nevada.
^pAMERICAN CANYON  A developer of luxury apartments appealed to the American Canyon City Council for more time to get its paperwork completed and avoid having the project derailed.

But Advanced Building Solutions (ABS) walked away without the extension it sought after council members asked for changes to The Village at Vintage Ranch  changes the developer couldnt stomach.

We would prefer to come back another time, said ABS President Chris Scerri to the council after a two-hour talk.

ABS does not have a lot of time left to ensure The Village  and its 159 townhomes  gets built after more than a decade of delays.

^pIt has until July 27 to get the projects design permit and tentative subdivision map approved. Failing to do so could effectively kill the development, which was first approved by the city in 2005-2006.

The Great Recession delayed the start of construction last decade. The original developer, Standard Pacific Homes, gave up on the project and sold it to ABS in 2013.

ABS asked the Planning Commission in March for a six-month extension on the citys approval of the permit and maps. But commissioners rejected the request, prompting the developers appeal to the council.

^pDuring questioning on June 6 by councilmembers, Scerri admitted they were very close to completing all their documents and revisions by July 27. However, he expressed worry that if they didnt finish everything in time, the project could be in trouble.

^pIf we miss just one thing, we lose everything, said Scerri.

Councilmember Mark Joseph expressed sympathy for ABSs plight, saying: It sounds like theyre close to the finish line, and given that, Im inclined to grant the extension.

Then came the but.

Im a negotiator, said Joseph, who added he wanted some conditions from ABS in return for extending the deadline to next January.

For Joseph, it was all about the affordable housing agreement between ABS and the city. The plan called for The Village to provide 16 units at below-market rates for lower income residents.

The mandate would last for 10 years. Joseph wanted a longer one of 20 or 30 years.

Scerri said he was agreeable with 20 years.

Other council members then chimed in with their requests. Kenneth Leary remarked: Im very interested in bike paths as part of his effort to encourage people to get out of their cars and walk or bike more.

When The Village was approved in 2005, the plan didnt call for building a bike path in or alongside the development. Such amenities werent a city priority back then.

Now, creating sections of the Vine Trail and Bay Trail are important to city leaders. Leary wanted ABS to help build a bike path near the property line that parallels American Canyon Road.

Other council members liked the idea too, setting off a discussion between them and city staff over the feasibility of adding a Class 1 bike lane. They even pulled out designs and called up Google maps on the large flat-screen monitor in the meeting room to examine where it might go.

They werent done brainstorming ideas for other changes to the project.

The buildings that would house the townhomes were described as having a Mediterranean appearance, based on the tile roofs and color schemes chosen for the walls and trim.

Councilmembers said the look was not consistent with the American Canyon of today.

After reviewing some of the building diagrams, City Manager Dana Shigley said that changes could be made without redesigning the whole project.

Scerri balked at the suggestions. The architecture and bike lane are big concerns for us, he told the council.

ABSs attorney Les Perry said his client had concerns with a deadline extension that included all the conditions. He asked the council if ABS managed to complete all necessary paperwork by the existing July 27 deadline, could they just forget about the extension and any strings attached that the council approved?

To which City Attorney William Ross replied: You cant have it both ways.

Joseph was just as succinct, asking Scerri: Can you live with the offer?

ABS decided it wanted time to think things over and continue working on meeting the July 27 deadline.

The council said the offer would remain available for the time being, but the developer would have to request another hearing if it wants to accept the extension and its conditions.
In the United States June 19, or Juneteenth, is known as Freedom Day. The day commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, Major Gen. Gordon Granger visited Galveston, Texas, to inform the community that President Abraham Lincoln had abolished slavery two years prior.

There is speculation about the delay, but many believe the news was purposely withheld from some regions.

Juneteenth is celebrated throughout the nation. Some celebrations occurred over the weekend, including Juneteenth parades in a number of cities.
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A Muslim teenager is missing and believed dead after she was abducted by a man as she and her friends were walking to a suburban Virginia mosque for Ramadan prayers, police said.

A body of a young woman, who authorities believe to be Nabra Hassanen, 17, was found Sunday in a pond in Sterling, Virginia, police said.

The same day police arrested a 22-year-old Sterling man after a traffic stop and charged him with her murder, said Tawny Wright, spokeswoman for Fairfax County Police.

Authorities are waiting for the medical examiner to make a final determination of the girl's identity and how she died before releasing her name, Wright said. But a statement sent to CNN from the Virginia Lt. Governor's office said that "detectives and relatives believe the body found is Nabra Hassanen."

While the episode has shaken the local Muslim community, Fairfax police say they are not investigating the girl's killing as a hate crime.

Wright told CNN that "detectives didn't receive an indication during their interviews" that the attack was a targeted or racially biased incident.

Friends were walking to mosque for Ramadan

Police began searching for the girl around 4 a.m. Sunday after they received reports from a group of teenagers saying their friend was missing, Wright said.

The teens told police they'd been walking from a McDonalds to the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) Center for Ramadan prayer when they ended up in a dispute with a man driving in a car, Wright told CNN.

The mosque holds several prayers throughout the night during the celebration of Ramadan, according to Tajul Islam, a receptionist at the ADAMS Center. The group of friends had left the mosque to eat at the McDonalds before the next fast began when they were attacked.

The man allegedly got out of the car and assaulted the 17-year-old girl as her friends ran to the mosque, where they called police, Wright said.

As Fairfax County Police and the Loudon County Sheriff's Office searched the area early Sunday, police stopped a man who was "driving suspiciously," Wright said.

Darwin Martinez Torres, 22, was taken into custody as a suspect in the case and subsequently charged with murder, Wright said.

Torres couldn't be reached for comment and CNN could not determine if he has retained a lawyer.

Detectives found the body, thought to be the girl's, in the pond around 3 p.m. Sunday.

Father: 'This is a hate crime'

On Monday, Nabra's friends gathered outside her Reston, Virginia, apartment with flowers. In another apartment her father, Mahmoud Hassanen, grieved with other friends and neighbors while her mother mourned separately several doors away.

More than 40 Muslim families live together in the quiet Cedar Ridge apartment complex.

Hassanen, Nabra's father, told CNN that his daughter was a warm and giving person.

"She loved everybody," he said. "She liked to help other people."

Hassanen said he immigrated from Egypt in 1987 and that he is an American citizen. He said he asked police why the suspect killed his daughter but they wouldn't comment on a potential motive.

And while police say they're not investigating the attack as a hate crime, Hassanen believes that's exactly what it was.

"This is a hate crime," he said. "It's racism. Getting killed because she's Muslim."

"I feel sorry for the guy who take my daughter's life," he said. "Why? We have to help each other."

Timing of attack raising concerns

Although the killing has not been officially declared a hate crime, its timing -- coming amidst a recent spike in attacks on Muslims -- has raised concerns in the Muslim community.

Ibrahim Hooper, spokesperson for the Council on American Islamic Relations, told CNN that his organization will be calling for a thorough investigation of a possible biased motive.

"We'd like to hear from the witnesses to the initial attack as to whether they heard any biased statements," Hooper said. "Even if not, why is this individual targeting a group of people dressed in Muslim attire?

"Would they have been targeted if they hadn't been of a certain faith or ethnicity? These are the kinds of questions we ask," he said.

The attack happened hours before a man drove a van into a crowd of worshipers at a mosque in London.

"We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event," said the ADAMS Center in a statement. "It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth."

A crowdfunding campaign for the girl's family has already raised more than $170,000.

CNN's Laura Jarrett contributed to this report.
After 17 months of detention in North Korea, the conditions of which are still unclear, Otto Warmbier returned to his home state of Ohio Tuesday night.
After 17 months of detention in North Korea, the conditions of which are still unclear, Otto Warmbier returned to his home state of Ohio Tuesday night.

But the young man who landed in Cincinnati and was immediately taken to a hospital isn't the same person who left a year and a half ago on a trip to explore the secretive country.

Since his return, Warmbier hasn't talked, moved in any purposeful way or responded to verbal communication. In a news conference Thursday, doctors called his condition "unresponsive wakefulness," and revealed he had suffered significant brain damage during his imprisonment.

The North Korean government said botulism is to blame for Warmbier's condition, but doctors haven't found any evidence of the illness in the now 22-year-old.

Before his detention made global headlines, Otto Warmbier was just an adventurous college student.

Bright future

Otto was born to Cindy and Fred Warmbier in Cincinnati -- the same city in which he's now hospitalized.

He excelled in academics, graduating from Wyoming High School in 2013 as his class salutatorian and getting a scholarship to the University of Virginia. There, he studied commerce and economics and was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity.

By all accounts, Warmbier was a planner. Someone who would always prioritize family and schoolwork over socializing.

"If Otto had anything schoolwork-related, job-related, family-related that he needed to do," Otto's friend Ned Ende told the Washington Post, "there was absolutely nothing you could say to him to convince him to do stuff with you."

But instead of graduating in May with the rest of his class, Warmbier was still in North Korea.

It wasn't a part of the plan.

Eye for adventure

In the spring of 2016, Warmbier signed up for a trip to North Korea with the Young Pioneer Tours travel group, a company that takes participants to places they wouldn't normally go.

"Otto was just a really great lad," Danny Gratton, Otto's roomate on the trip, told the Washington Post.

"I got to know Otto really, really well. He was such a mature lad for his age."

In pictures and videos from his time in North Korea, Warmbier can be seen smiling and enjoying himself.

One image taken during the trip shows Warmbier throwing a snowball and laughing.

"This is the Otto I know and love," Warmbier's brother Austin told CNN affiliate WCPO. "This is my brother."

In total, the trip was supposed to last five days. Warmbier had plans to visit Beijing, China, after he left North Korea.

But as he tried to depart from Pyongyang's airport, he was stopped in security.

According to the North Korean government, Warmbier was detained because he had sneaked onto a restricted floor of his hotel and had stolen a political poster.

The next time the world saw Warmbier he was distraught, breaking down in front of Korean journalists in a video released by North Korea in February of 2016. He admitted to the crime and begged for forgiveness and for his release. It's not known whether his confession was voluntary.

For his alleged crime, Warmbier was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. In the end, he spent 17 months in North Korea before being released. He was taken by a medical aircraft to the US.

Uncertainty ahead

It's not clear what lies ahead for Warmbier. Doctors at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center say his condition, while stable, is severe, and that he suffered extensive loss of tissue in all regions of his brain.

The circumstances under which he came to be in that state remain a mystery.

In a news conference on Thursday, Warmbier's father called his return bittersweet.

"[I feel] relief that Otto is now home in the arms of those who love him," he said. "And anger that he was so brutally treated for so long."

CNN's Allison Brennan, Sol Han and Elise Labott contributed to this report.
NATO and the European Union reinforce each other better than ever and are making substantial progress in complementing each others work. This is the conclusion of the first progress report on NATO-EU Cooperation, authored jointly by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and EU High Representative / Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini.

The report was released on Monday (19 June 2017) and presented by High Representative Mogherini to EU Foreign Ministers who are meeting in Luxembourg. In order to discuss the cooperation between NATO and the EU, Deputy Secretary General Rose Gottemoeller is attending the EU meeting. Secretary General Stoltenberg will share the report with NATO Ministers of Defence when they gather in Brussels on 29 June.

NATO and the European Union committed to working more closely together with the Warsaw Declaration, signed by the NATO Secretary General, the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Council in July 2016. The two organisations are implementing over 40 proposals to deepen cooperation, ranging from resilience to hybrid threats, through greater coherence on capability development to helping build the defence capacities of partner countries. Cooperation will continue, and the two organisations will explore ways to expand it in new areas by the end of the year.
The Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H.E. Mr. Mladen Ivanic, will visit NATO Headquarters on Tuesday, 20 June 2017.

The NATO Deputy Secretary General, H.E. Ms. Rose Gottemoeller will meet Mr. Ivanic who will also attend the North Atlantic Council.

There will be no media opportunity.

Still and video imagery of the meeting will be available after the event on the NATO website.

Follow us on Twitter (@NATOPress and @jensstoltenberg)
(Natural News) The fairness  and tightness  of Googles grip on the internet search world, as well as its subsequent effects on other online entities who want their website to pop up when a searcher is googling, has been an ongoing conversation on both sides of the Atlantic. According to Morningstaronline.co.uk, the use of the ubiquitous search engine is used in 70 percent of all U.S. online searches, but in the U.K., its an even higher 90 percent.

In 2013, as reported by The New York Times, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) unanimously determined that Google had not violated antitrust or anticompetition statues through the use of algorithms that drive the search results. The FTC deliberated for about two years before absolving Google from any charges, though the panel admitted they faced a struggle in proving malicious intent. One wonders if there was pushback from Googles friends at the CIA. This FTC decision to absolve the company, as told by The Independent, was made at a times when the European Union (EU) antitrust regulators had already been investigating Google for three years on similar charges. In late summer of 2017, the EU plans to announce their verdict. If pronounced guilty, there are adjusted estimates of a $9 billion EU fine, but the money would most likely be a slap on the wrist for Google, now wrapped under the banner of their parent company, Alphabet. Venturebest.com reports Alphabets 2nd quarter 2016 earnings as $21.5 billion in revenues and $8.42 earning per share.

Over the years, Google has made three attempts to settle the EU antitrust case and avoid any hint of wrong doing. They were negotiating with a previous European Competition Commissioner, Joaquin Almunia. From Googles perspective, a wrench got thrown into the works when Mr. Almunia was replaced with Ms. Margrethe Vestager, who is not so easily won over. Wired reports that Ms. Vestagers first big test will be her antitrust case against Google. Vestager sees the landscape of fair competition being intruded on by technology, and its nudging swarm of algorithmically filtered data. She stated her views very clearly:

 I know what I need. I dont want people to tell me what I need.

If Google is found to be at fault, it is not known what, if any, other remedies might be put in place to help restore fair competition. As reported by Tnooz.com, Expedia is just one of the companies who has filed a complaint with the European Commission. Expedia has also teamed with Trip Advisor, Kayak, Microsoft and others to form Fair Search, a U.S. anti-Google lobbying group who is also operating in the U.K. Fair Search describes itself as having two essential principles; transparency and innovation. They believe that consumers  not search engines should choose winners in the marketplace.

In 2016, author and research psychologist Robert Epstein, from the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology in Vista, California, penned an highly regarded paper describing the Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME). In it, he declared that Googles algorithm nudges have a significant impact on many of the most important decisions people make in their lives, not just voting for presidents. Because this is done almost invisibly, it is especially dangerous.

Why not say no to manipulation, and yes to independent thinking? Its time to start searching with Goodgopher.com.



Sources include:

MorningStarOnline.co.uk

NewYorkTimes.com

Independent.co.uk

VentureBeat.com

Wired.co.uk

Tnooz.com

FairSearch.org

Pnas.org

Aibrt.org
12:31

Stones and bottles in hand, the highly motivated youths are giving a tough time to the security forces in keeping law and order in the restive Darjeeling hills.





Meet 18-year-old Pranab, a student of class XII, who has become a regular stone-pelter since June 8 when the first stirring of disturbance appeared after the 'imposition' of Bengali language in schools.





"We want Gorkhaland. We want a separate state. It is a fight for our own identity and future. It is my right and I will have it,' he asserted. He is one of thousands of youths who have come out in open support for Gorkhaland and have challenged the security forces when they were lathi-charged.





"India is a democracy and in democracy everybody has the right to hold peaceful protest. How can someone stop us from organising protest? We did not resort to violence first, but if we are beaten up we will not sit idle. The police will be paid back in their own coin,' a third year student, whose face was covered with a black cloth, told PTI.





Well-versed with the ideals of communists like Karl Marx and Che Guevara, the student said, "I have my own identity and don't want to get it mixed up with others. I respect all communities and religions. But everybody should understand our sentiments."





Most of the youths who have indulged in stone-pelting are educated and come from good families. "I am not a goon or a street guy whom the police can just beat up whenever it wants to. I am fighting for my right. Several of my family members have been in the Army and have served the nation. We are not anti-nationals. We just want a state of our own," said 25-year-old Binay who has completed his masters in English from Calcutta University.





With the state government making it mandatory to learn Bengali in the schools of Bengal, the people of Darjeeling, whose local lingo and mother tongue is Nepali, felt that it was a threat of infringement into their cultural rights.





"Had the state government come out with a statement declaring that Bengali would not be imposed in the hills, the situation would not have turned so violent," said a student of renowned college of Darjeeling.





With their agility and intimate knowledge of the local terrain, the youths frequently switch positions while pelting stones giving the police a hard time.





To be honest, the youths have stayed away from hurling stones at the Army, as defence forces have a passionate place in their heart with as many as 90 per cent of the families in Darjeeling having either a serving or a retired army personnel in their families.





"Indian Army has a special place in our heart. You will not find a single family in the hills which doesn't have either a serving or a retired army personnel,' a 20-year-old youth said.
20:25

Ram Nath Kovind believes that if the president of the country can be criticised, there is no reason why members of the judiciary cannot be pulled up.

The BJP's presidential candidate had said in a debate in Parliament that "if the appointing authority" of judges, that is the president, could be censured, so could the judiciary.

"If any citizen of this country can criticise the President of India for his wrong-doing, I don't think it could be valid ... if the judiciary is exempted," Kovind said as a Rajya Sabha member in the debate on March 3, 2006, on the contempt of courts (Amendment) Bill, 2006, moved by then Law Minister Hansraj Bhardwaj.

He, however, added, the judiciary had been exempted "to maintain its independence".

Kovind, who was a Rajya Sabha member from Uttar Pradesh and a former lawyer, spoke at length on the bill that sought to reform contempt laws.

"Every citizen has got a fundamental right to speak the truth. If he wants to say anything on the matter of inefficiency or corruption, he is most welcome," he said.

He also mentioned that the then Chief Justice of India had referred to corruption in the judiciary.

"It is not only the citizen. We know that once even the Chief Justice of India had said -- he did admit - that some percentage of the judiciary was corrupt. Of course, he can't be hauled up for contempt of court because he happens to be from the same community (of the judiciary)," Kovind said.

Emphasising that ordinary citizens must have the right to react, he said the person's response "could be for wrong-doing or his reaction could be for rectifying them, whatsoever it may be".

The NDA's nominee, who is likely to be elected president next month, had also congratulated the law minister of the then Congress-led UPA government for the amendment on contempt of court.

Kovind cited a few examples in his speech to argue that courts had wide "discretionary powers" and that there was "an element of non-accountability" in the judiciary.
Chicago wheat slid almost 1percent on Monday as the market took a breather after rallyingaround 5 percent in the last two sessions on the back of dryweather hitting U.S. yields. Corn gave up 1.5 percent, while soybean prices were littlechanged in early Asian trade. FUNDAMENTALS * Chicago wheat climbed to its highest in almost ayear at $4.68-1/2 a bushel on Friday as dry weather threatenedto reduce U.S. spring wheat crop production. * Reports of disappointing yields in early harvesting of thehard red winter wheat provided additional support. * Forecaster Commodity Weather Group said that the rainoutlook was still very limited in the western Dakotas andMontana during the next two weeks, which will hinder developmentof spring wheat in those areas. * Concerns about crops in the Black Sea region buoyed wheatprices. Wheat exports from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan wereexpected to fall 3.3 percent to 50.4 million tonnes in theupcoming season, which starts on July 1, according to a Reuterspoll. Production was also seen falling. * The monthly U.S. National Oilseed Processors Associationreport released on Thursday, which showed crushings well aboveanalyst forecasts, was still adding strength to the soybeanmarket. * Large speculators trimmed their net short position inChicago Board of Trade corn futures in the week to June 13,regulatory data released on Friday showed. * The Commodity Futures Trading Commission's weeklycommitments of traders report also showed that noncommercialtraders, a category that includes hedge funds, trimmed their netshort position in CBOT wheat and trimmed their net shortposition in soybeans. MARKET NEWS * Asian stocks began the week modestly higher on Mondayafter Wall Street offered little guidance, while sterling andthe euro steadied before the start of talks over the terms ofBritain's exit from the European Union.REUTERS RSD 0731 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-939909.Xml
China's central Hunan province took delivery of 1,012 American boars on Sunday, state media reported, the latest sign that producers in the world's top pork market are expanding herds even as concerns grow about slowing demand and overcapacity.The boars, which arrived in a chartered plane at the provincial capital Changsha, will be quarantined for 45 days before they are distributed to pig farms in Hunan and neighbouring areas, Xinhua reported on Sunday.Hunan is one of China's top hog-producing regions.The imports are expected to improve the quality of local breeding swine, Wang Xinwu, deputy head of the province's inspection and quarantine bureau, was cited as saying."It shows that hog producers in China are expanding, given profits are currently quite good," said Alice Xuan, an analyst with Shanghai JC Intelligence.Analysts have warned, though, that China's rising hog production due to rapid herd-building by farmers this year will damage profits in 2018.China has been importing breeders since as early as the 1990s - from countries including the United States, Canada and Denmark - as foreign varieties have a shorter growing cycle and a higher percentage of lean meat, Xuan said."They want steady supplies of breeders, which will help reduce farming costs and epidemic risks at the same time," she said. The U.S. hogs were imported by China Animal Husbandry Group. They were selected from six pig farms in the United States and underwent a quarantine inspection there before being loaded on a plane for the flight to Hunan, according to Xinhua.China Animal Husbandry Group was not immediately available for commentREUTERS AKC 1618 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0387-940475.Xml
The British Brexit minister David Davis will lead a team to Brussels on Monday for the first round of official talks to negotiate Britain leaving the European Union (EU). A statement issued by Davis' department Sunday in London said "Despite European leaders' attempts to leave open the possibility of Britain remaining in the UK, Davis will make it clear that he is determined to achieve a Brexit deal that works for the whole of the UK." Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis described the talks as a mission to deliver on the will of the British people following the referendum of a year ago, Xinhua news reported. Davis will lead a team of experienced negotiators to Brussels, confident that he can get a positive outcome and secure a new deep and special partnership with the EU, said his spokesman. "He will also set out a bold vision for the UK's future after it leaves the EU and the exciting opportunities that will arise from our exit," added the statement. After ten months of planning, Davis will meet with the EU's Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier to agree the structure of the negotiations ahead, so officials have a framework within which to discuss substantive issues. Davis said in a statement Sunday: "Now, the hard work begins. We must secure a deal that works for all parts of the United Kingdom, and enables us to become a truly global Britain." "Leaving gives us the opportunity to forge a bright new future for the UK -- one where we are free to control our borders, pass our own laws and do what independent sovereign countries do," he said. The start of the negotiations comes as work continues across the British government to prepare Britain for life outside of the EU. --IANS vgu/ ( 316 Words) 2017-06-19-03:54:10 (IANS)
The US administration's new policy toward Cuba indicates a return to the Cold War, and Washington needs to listen to the international community's voice on this issue, Russia's Foreign Ministry said. "The new policy on Cuba announced by US President Donald Trump brings us back to the already forgotten rhetoric in the style of the 'Cold War'. Such an approach has characterized the US attitude to Cuba for decades," the ministry said in a statement on Sunday. Noting that the past five decades has shown the futility of "the arrogant style of doing business with Cuba", the ministry warned the US government that the anti-Cuban discourse, still in high demand though, would only cause regret, Xinhua reported. Trump announced on Friday new restrictions on Americans' travel to Cuba and US business with the Cuban military, a step to tighten the US policy toward the neighbouring country. The move is seen as an attempt to roll back parts of Obama's policy of normalizing US-Cuba diplomatic ties, which was introduced in December 2014. It urged the Trump administration to pay attention to the anti-blockade resolutions repeatedly adopted by the UN General Assembly, which represent the almost unanimous voice of the international community on Cuba. The ministry also reiterated Russia's "unshakable solidarity" with Cuba, adding that Moscow is for dialogue and cooperation, instead of blockades, sanctions or outside interference in internal affairs of sovereign states. The US severed its ties with Cuba in 1961, shortly after Fidel Castro launched a revolution that toppled a US-friendly government, and the two countries had been at loggerheads ever since. --IANS vgu/ ( 278 Words) 2017-06-19-04:52:26 (IANS)
New Delhi [India], June 19 (ANI-BusinessWire India): Global Indian International School (GIIS) in Whitefield, Bangalore, on Friday hosted the GIIS Leadership Lecture Series with Balaji Vittal, an eminent writer who has co-authored two books and received wide acclaim. His first book, R D. Burman: The Man, the Music (2011) won the President's Swarna Kamal Award for Best Book on Cinema at the National Film Awards. His second book Gaata Rahe Mera Dil (2015), was awarded the Excellence in Writing on Cinema at the 17th Mumbai Film Festival. Vittal shared reading tips and the art of writing a book with the students of Grades VIII and IX. His experience of three years while compiling his first book was a case study that offered valuable insight. The students enjoyed this interactive session and asked plenty of questions related to balancing their hobbies with academics. The Global Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GCIE) is a platform that encourages design thinking and innovation in students. The attitude of entrepreneurship and parallel career-centric mindset are skills that are inculcated from a very young age when the mind is most receptive. The session on book-reading and developing a writing style, enhance the linguistic intelligence that accelerates an important facet of creative thinking. The session highlighted this aspect of creative thinking in students. Other than writing, there would be other areas of passion in students like sports, music, art and other hobbies. The idea is to how to cultivate these hobbies and make the most of them. Talking about alternate career choices, one can always build on a hobby with passion while they pursue a totally different career. It is always better to have a backup plan. This helps them maintain a balance in their professional life, get money inflow and also invest time to pursue a passion. The students were inspired to follow their dream, enhance visualisation skills and choose a job that drives their inner passion to excel. Vittal also shared his own experience as a writer; a writer's journey while compiling a book takes a lot of time, patience, and motivation. He emphasised on the habit of reading a newspaper and pages of a novel/story book each day will help them evolve as good writers in the future. While he is an Engineer by profession, his passion for books finally helped him achieve his dreams of emerging as a successful writer. (ANI-BusinessWire India)
Global credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service on Monday dubbed as 'credit-positive' for Indian banks the RBI plans to resolve 12 large bank loan accounts accounting for 25 per cent of the banking system's non-performing assets (NPA). The rating agency said it expects that the effectiveness of the resolutions under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, will be limited. According to Moody's, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) move is credit-positive for banks because any meaningful resolution under this plan can help improve their overall asset quality. "Additionally, it also will set a precedent for resolving non-performing loans from smaller borrowers," Moody's said. The RBI has asked banks to also review other NPAs and finalise a resolution plan in six months. This plan follows the passage last month of an NPA ordinance that provides the RBI with greater legal authority to intervene in non-performing loan resolutions. Under the Code, a case has to be resolved within a maximum of 270 days, after which a borrower company would be liquidated. Moody's expects a faster loan dues resolution process. According to Moody's, though the RBI has not yet provided details of the provisioning norms, the directive is expected to negatively affect banks' profitability over the next year if they need to take large write-downs relative to their existing loan-loss reserves for those assets. This also will accentuate the capital needs of weaker public sector banks, which may require a large capital infusion from the Indian government. Moody's expects the effectiveness of resolutions under the IBC to be limited. "In particular, once a resolution under the IBC is initiated, the company's control shifts from existing management to insolvency professionals," Moody's said. "Nevertheless, given the nature of the assets, we expect that the management team in some cases will continue to play a role in preserving day-to-day operations," the credit rating agency added. In addition, the strict timelines of a resolution may force some companies into liquidation and may have a negative effect on banks, particularly in cases where little collateral is available. --IANS vj/tsb/dg ( 354 Words) 2017-06-19-15:30:14 (IANS)
To further develop the ecosystem for startups in India, the government is working on ways to step up the exchanges with startups from countries like Germany and in the South Asian region, Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday. "We have negotiated with Germany for an exchange of ideas with German startups under an existing arrangement between our countries," Sitharaman said here at the launch of the Startup India Hub online platform designed to be a single point of contact for the startup community. "We are currently working on the modalities of how to exchange ideas with German startups, and hope to realise this within some months," she said. The Minister said that given the complementarities among the South Asian nations, the government is actively considering a South Asian Association for Regional Coperation (Saarc) startups exchange programme. "We are looking at organising a Saarc countries' meet for startups, where mutually beneficial ideas for innovation can be worked out... the inter-relationships and synergies can be worked out better because South Asian minds have similar thinking," Sitharaman said. "We'll create the space for startups to interact, but the topics, format, who to invite etcetera have to be decided by the startups themeselves," she added. --IANS bc/ahm/vt ( 215 Words) 2017-06-19-17:20:10 (IANS)
New Delhi [India], June 19 (ANI-NewsVoir): The Indian Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (IVCA) successfully hosted its 2nd Real Estate and Infrastructure Conference at Four Seasons, Mumbai to analyse in-depth perspective by Industry's top players. The event was graced by Anuj Ranjan, Country Head - India, Brookfield Asset Management, alongside, industry stalwarts and esteemed speakers including Neel Raheja, Group President, K. Raheja Group, K. Sriniwasan. Chief Executive Office, Kotak Realty Fund, M.K. Sinha, Managing Partner and CEO, IDFC Alternatives limited and other were present at the conference. The audience was a powerful blend of PE & VC community leaders and prominent knowledge leaders of the industry. The event witnessed significant discussion on various modifications in government regulations for real estate and infrastructure investment. The event addressed common issues that have been helping / impeding the growth of private equity and venture capital Industry in real estate in India. It was followed by a fireside chat session with keynotes from major players in the industry. Rajat Tandon, president at IVCA, commented, "The 2nd Real Estate and Infrastructure Conference was a huge success as top industry players came together to share insights on the outlook, challenges and way forward in the real estate investment space and also to chart out a clear roadmap for the industry. This conference has emboldened the tryst of IVCA to provide further clarity into the investment functionaries of various sectors, including that of real estate." "Infrastructure in India is a trillion dollar opportunity for investors but it requires serious attention from private equity players" said Siddharth Shah, Partner, Khaitan & Co. Anuj Ranjan, Country Head, Brookfield Asset Management, said "We are pleased to make a foray into the Indian Market. Brookfields views India as an amazing ecosystem for macro investment, while dealing with challenges of micro. It is certainly a great opportunity to invest in infrastructure because most of the distressed assets are in infra sector and the competition is low. We are positive that investment culture would be reaching to newer levels of synchronization through such eye opening conferences." Neel Raheja, Group President, K. Raheja Group, said "The government needs to rethink on the impacts of GST in the real estate sector in the long term as India will soon go to the Asian style mixed use of developments because of shortage of land. In fact, India has gone from most expensive hotel market to the cheapest hotel market in Asia. Where with affordable housing in India, the main problem lies in the scaling- you cannot get scale out of it. So we can say that a lot more is required to be done before India can become truly shining." On tapping into opportunities, Vipul Roongta, MD and CEO, HDFC Capital, said, "There are two sides-supply side and demand side, in which it's the supply side which is causing the problem. Simply put, if you can manufacture a house at the right price then there is no problem. The supply side needs to gear up focus and needs to be properly funded as it is better to invest in the aid for real estate developers. This will be more profitable investment, due to the fact that money is highly commoditized in the present scenario and hence simply providing money is not the way to go. Prolific investment is the best way ahead in terms of gaining foothold in this ever evolving industry." On how 2016 has fared for real estate, Vishal Kumar, MD, Xander Investment Management said, "2016 has been a year of profitability with best returns being offered by tier II cities. Yet development is no longer remunerative in India, hence it is required for quantity to go down and the quality has to go up. The lending rates of NBFC have gone down from 20-23 percent in 2010s to 15-16 percent now and so, diversification is the key to make money in NBFC business. A word on Private equity: Private equity players are comfortable in financing affordable housing project as there is less skepticism about the demand of such projects. Yet, it's just too early for private equity to invest in affordable projects." On infrastructure investment, MK Sinha, Managing Partner and CEO, IDFC Alternatives limited, said, "Invit as product needs to be risk-proofed. It just amazes me that RIETS have not yet taken off but we are already hosting two Invits. This holds testament that Indians have greater appetite for risk and would require further awareness before proceeding." (ANI-NewsVoir)
Security forces were working to establish whether the fires were started as part of a coordinated vandalism effort or whether there was a political motive, Efe news reported.

"This morning, there were 12 arson attacks on German railway installations between 1 a.m. and 4.30 a.m.," police in the federal state of Saxony (east Germany) said in a statement posted on Facebook.

Four of the fires were reported in the Leipzig area, according to police.

"There is an assumption that the fires are linked. A political motivation, such as in relation to the G20 summit in Hamburg, has not been ruled out," the police statement said in reference to an upcoming G20 meeting from July 7-8 in the northern port city.

Railway company Deutsche Bahn warned passengers of cancellations and delays in Hamburg and Lbeck in the north, and Leipzig in the east due to "vandalism damage."

The company said regional trains were experiencing delays in Cologne, Dsseldorf, Dortmund and Bochum in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Police in the capital Berlin said they were investigating a cable fire near the Treptower Park S-Bahn (suburban rail) station, while police in Saxony -- where Leipzig is located -- asked for witnesses to come forward with information on the fires.

--IANS soni/bg

( 252 Words)

2017-06-19-19:52:20 (IANS)
Anupam on Monday took to Twitter to thank Syed Akbaruddin, India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN.

"Great honour to illuminate the United Nations building, New York in preparation of International Day of Yoga. Thank you Akbaruddin sir," Anupam tweeted.

The 61-year-old actor later shared a string of photographs in front of the building along with Akbaruddin.

"Here are more pictures of 'Illumination of United Nations Heaquarters' in New York. It was great to meet honourable Syed Akbaruddin and other members," he captioned the images.

On the work front, Anupam will be seen in the upcoming film "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha". The film stars National Award winning actor Akshay Kumar and "Dum Laga Ke Haisha" famed actress Bhumi Pednekar. He is in New York also for the premiere of his American film "The Big Sick".

--IANS dc/rb/ksk

( 180 Words)

2017-06-19-10:56:10 (IANS)
There is a massive problem of self-medication misuse in the Middle East, according to a recent study. The findings indicated that the need for better patient and physician education, as well as improved policies that restrict sales of prescription medications without a prescription. Self-medication is not limited to over-the-counter medicines. Patients self-medicate with prescription medicines that may have been prescribed and left over from a previous time. Also, even though it's not authorized, in some countries individuals sometimes buy prescription medicines directly from community pharmacies, especially for the short-term treatment of common diseases. In the Middle East, prescription medicines can easily be purchased without a prescription, resulting in potential misuse and unnecessary risk. To examine self-medication misuse in the Middle East, Malak Khalifeh of the Bordeaux University in France and her colleagues conducted an extensive review of literature published between 1990 and 2015. The team identified a total of 72 papers. Medicines involved in misuse included codeine containing products, topical anesthetics, topical corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, and antibiotics. Self-medication misuse seemed widespread, and pharmacists, friends, and parents were the main sources of medications. One study noted that pharmacies in Iran sold 57% of prescription items without a prescription. Another found that in Syria, 87% of 200 pharmacies visited agreed to sell antibiotics without a prescription. This figure increased to 97% when the investigators who were at first denied antibiotics insisted on having the antibiotics. In Saudi Arabia, only one attendant pharmacist refused to dispense medications without a prescription. Strategies and interventions to limit misuse were rarely mentioned in studies. The findings indicate that there is a serious problem of self-medication misuse in the Middle East involving a range of medicines. "There is a relative lack of literature relating to self-medication misuse in the Middle East, and there has been relatively little systematic research on this topic, partly due to the perception that self-mediation misuse is not as problematic as other types of drug abuse," said Khalifeh. "This review has found a massive problem, and it could be used as a reference for multiple research studies that deal with self-medication misuses in Middle Eastern countries." The study is published in Pharmacology Research & Perspectives. (ANI)
Roy on May 18 did not appear before the SEBI court after filing an exemption application on medical grounds.

However, the special SEBI court rejected Roy's plea.

The SEBI court was to frame charges in the case against Roy and his three group firms' directors - Ravishankar Dubey, Ashok Roy Choudhary and Vandana Bhargava.

On April 21, a SEBI court had cancelled the non-bailable arrest warrants against Roy and three of his group firms' directors after they appeared before it in a case filed by the SEBI against them.

The SEBI court cancelled the NBWs against them after they furnished fresh bail bonds of Rs. 2 lakh each and gave undertakings to the court that they would attend its trial proceeding against them regularly.

The SEBI had registered a case against Sahara India Real Estate Corporation, Sahara Housing Investment, their promoter Subrata Roy and the three directors in 2012, alleging that these companies had collected a huge sum of money from investors without listing the securities on the stock exchanges. (ANI)
An Indian Army colonel and three others have been arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for being involved in a case of bribery of Rs.50, 000. A case has been filed against the colonel and three others under sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988. The arrested persons will be produced before a competent court. It is being alleged that the colonel had demanded a bribe of Rs.1.80 lakh from the managing director, director and a representative of a private company for the supply of power pack rock splitters, which are used by various field formations of the army. The colonel was alleged to have already demanded and accepted a bribe of Rs.50,000 in February, and was in the process of receiving a second installment of the same amount when he was caught red handed. The bribe was being delivered by the director of the company. The CBI also confirmed that it has carried out a search of four premises in Pune and two premises in Kolkata. (ANI)
Yoga guru Baba Ramdev on Monday said that consensus on the nomination for the upcoming Presidential elections is needed by the political parties as the dignity of the post matters. "We hope that this time, both National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) give a consensus on the nomination of next President. The country wishes for the same as the position of a President is the highest of all," Ramdev told media here. He further said that since the time of country's first president Rajendra Prasad to the current, President Pranab Mukherjee, they all have maintained the dignity of the post. "Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governance, the significance of India has increased and world organisations have started to take India very seriously. Therefore, I think it is very important to have a mutual understanding on the name of the next President between the Opposition parties," he asserted. On Friday, the first meeting between the government and the opposition on Presidential elections remained inconclusive as no names were discussed by either side. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Naidu on Friday met Communist Party of India (CPI) leaders D. Raja and Sudhakar Reddy at the latter's party office over presidential elections. Naidu has also spoken to Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav and Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders Ram Gopal Yadav and Naresh Agrawal over phone and met Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav and senior Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Satish Chandra Mishra in this regard. According to reports, the BJP committee is holding discussions with all parties as they are trying to finalise a consensus candidate for Presidential poll before Prime Minister Modi departs for his foreign tour on June 24. The BJP was formed a panel for parleys with the Opposition as Sonia constituted a sub-group of the opposition parties for the Presidential election to create troubled waters for the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for the country's coveted post. Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mallikarjun Kharge, JD(U) leader Sharad Yadav, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, TMC leader Derek O'Brien, Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav, BSP's Satish Chandra Mishra, DMK leader R. S. Bharathi and NCP's Praful Patel are part of the sub-group. The election for the next President of India is to be held on July 17 as President Pranab Mukherjee will demit the office on July 25. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued the notification in this regard and the process of the nomination has started that will continue till June 28. (ANI)
The occasion for which the chief minister leaves for Netherlands is the United Nations' Public Service Day celebrations on June 22 and 23 at Hague. This international day celebrates public servants' contribution to sustainable development

She is the first Chief Minister from India to be invited to a United Nations summit.

The theme of the 2017 UN Public Service Forum is 'The Future is Now: Accelerating Public Service Innovation for Agenda 2030'.

Around 500 dignitaries from different countries will be present in the programme when the chief minister addresses it. Dr Amit Mitra, the state Finance, Commerce and Industry minister, will be accompanying her.

The state government, under her leadership of Ms Banerjee, had undertaken several projects that benefitted the masses at a large scale and ensured an overall development of the state.

Chief Minister had introduced several schemes including Kanyashree, Sabuj Sathi, Yuvashree, Aloshree and Sasthya Sathi among others for the benefit of the people in general.UNI BM

-- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0214-939962.Xml
FUNDAMENTALS * Three-month copper on the London Metal Exchangeedged up by 0.1 percent to $5,671 a tonne by 0111 GMT, afterlosing nearly 1 percent in the previous session. LME copper isbouncing in a range between the 100 and 200-day moving averages,at $5,778 and $5,512 respectively.

* The June or third Wednesday contract will reach expirythis week, which often triggers an influx of stock registrationsin LME warehouses as traders deliver against short positions.

* Shanghai Futures Exchange copper eased 0.2percent to 45,500 yuan ($6,682) a tonne.

* LME nickel fell 0.6 percent, rolling back 1percent gains from Friday. Prices have been pressured byexpectations of more supply from Philippines and Indonesia.

* U.S. homebuilding fell for a third straight month in Mayto the lowest level in eight months as construction activitydeclined broadly, suggesting that housing could be a drag oneconomic growth in the second quarter.

* China's central bank plans to step up support for "green"financing, including incentives to encourage banks to extendmore loans for projects friendly to the environment, a deputygovernor, said on Friday.

* South Africa mines minister on Sunday defended newregulations seeking to accelerate black ownership in the keyindustry as a "win-win" situation for all, despite objectionsfrom an industry body threatening court action to block thechanges.

* Speculators increased their net long position in copperfutures and options, latest data from the U.S. Commodity FuturesTrading Commission showed.

* For the top stories in metals and other news, click

or

MARKETS NEWS

* Asian stocks began the week modestly higher on Mondayafter Wall Street offered little guidance, while sterling andthe euro steadied before the start of talks over the terms ofBritain's exit from the European Union.

REUTERS RSD 0733

-- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-939911.Xml
The weekly Karvan-e-Aman bus operating between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK), left for Kaman Post, the last Indian military post on this side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector here to cross over to the other side. The bus left from Bemina in Srinagar this morning for Kaman post, official sources told UNI. The bus has since reached the Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) at Uri, they said, adding the exact number of passengers travelling to POK would be known by afternoon. The passengers travelling from POK to here, to meet their relatives separated due to partition in 1947, will also be known in the afternoon, they said. The bus service, a major Confidence Building Measure (CBM) between India and Pakistan after 1999 Kargil War, continues despite unrest in Kashmir in 2016 and tension on the LoC, due to ceasefire violation and subsequent surgical strike by Indian troops in the POK. The cross-LoC bus service, started on April 7, 2005 despite opposition by militant organisations, has helped thousands of families, divided in 1947 due to Partition, to meet each other after India and Pakistan agreed to allow travel of state subjects from both sides on travel permits, instead of international passport. However, the travel permit is issued to the state subject from both sides of the LoC only after their names are cleared by the intelligence agencies from India and Pakistan. However, only state subjects from both sides could avail the cross-LoC facility. UNI BAS AD1045 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-939986.Xml
State Governor Ram Naik and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath this morning scrutized the arrangements made for the third International Yoga Day on June 21 and attended the full dress rehearsal at the Ramabai Ambedkar Ground here. The capital city has been turned into virtual fortress for the two days visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from tomorrow with the deployment of over 12,000 security personnel. Around 50,000 people participated in the rehearsal. The school children, however, had a sleepless night as the school authorities ferried them to the ground at midnight last night at around 0200 hrs. After his arrival here at around 1645 hours tomorrow, Mr Modi would inaugurate two buildings at CDRI and Abdul Kalam Technical University. The CM will host a dinner for the PM at his official residence and the latter would spend the night at Rajbhavan. On June 21, Mr Modi would participate in the International Yoga Day function at around 0630 hours and then leave for New Delhi at 0800 hrs. While the last minute preparations are underway, sources said an elaborate security cover will be in place with commandos and para-military forces keeping a close vigil in and around the venue. Altogether 25 companies of PAC and 10 companies of central forces would also be deployed for the Prime Minister's security. Officials of the Lucknow administration said that more than 400 CCTV cameras have been installed at the Ramabai ground. "Participants of the programme have been allowed to enter the venue from 0200 hrs to 0530 hrs. Giant LED TV screens will be installed at the programme venue to enable them to have a close look at the yogic postures," additional district magistrate (Lucknow East) Virendra Pandey said here today. "Apart from this, we will install LED TV screens in 11 parks in Lucknow so that the public and morning walkers, who are not able to enter the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan, may also simultaneously participate," Mr Pandey said. The main programme will begin at around 0630 hrs, for which the state government has sent invites to senior political leaders, including former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, BSP supremo Mayawati, and former chief ministers and governors. Samajwadi Party (SP), on its part, has organised cycle yatras across Uttar Pradesh to spread the message of environment conservation. "SP national president Akhilesh Yadav has asked all the district presidents and office-bearers of the party to undertake cycle yatras on Yoga Day to spread the message of environment and health awareness," SP spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhury said. "The leaders of the party will perform yoga at the district headquarters and the workers will ride bicycles in their constituencies," he said.UNI MB SDR AD1217 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0196-940006.Xml
Farmers have threatened to protest against the anti-farmer policies of the NDA government at the Centre and BJP ruled states by performing yoga asanas on all the highways in the state, except in the capital, along with 12 other states on International Yoga Day on June 21. Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) has threatened to highlight the plights of the farmers of Madhya Pradesh, Maharastra and UP during the protest. It had earlier announced to hold the protest on all the highways connecting Lucknow as Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be present there but later skipped Lucknow district. BKU, Lucknow divisional president, Hariram Singh Verma told UNI here that a meeting was held yesterday where it was decided that no protest will be held in Lucknow in view of the PM's visit. "We don't want that people should term us violent and anarchist besides the party does not want to disrupt PM's function, hence we will not protest in Lucknow," he said. "Though we will not hold any protest in Lucknow but we will block the highways in Rae Bareli, Barabanki, Unnao, Hardoi and Sitapur, which connects the state capital. I will lead the protest in Barabanki," he said, adding that the protest will start at 0900 hrs and will end at 1200 hrs. "We have decided to start our protest at 0900 hours so that the school going children and office goers do not face any problem," he further added. Mr Verma said the farmers will perform yoga with wheat, rice, sugarcane, milk and other agriculture produce to lodge their protest.Though BKU has asked the people to support the farmers agitation and avoid using the highways during the protest period, it said that emergency services like ambulances and defence vehicles would not be stopped.UNI MB SDR AD1241 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0196-940058.Xml
A minor fire broke out at an underground cable in the Delhi Police's Crime Branch inter-state cell in Chanakyapuri here this afternoon.According to a fire official, a call was received at around 1234 hrs about the incident and three fire tenders were immediately rushed to the spot.The inferno was doused within 10 minutes and no one was injured, he said. UNI PY SW 1335 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0298-940123.Xml
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababau Naidu said that the government would construct 1.93 lakh houses for the houseless poor under Pradhana Mantri Aawas Yojana (PMAY)-NTR Nagar scheme. Launching the PMAY-NTR Nagar Urban Housing Project here today, the Chief Minister said that foundation stone was laid for the construction of 1.20 lakh houses for the houseless poor under PMAY-NTR Nagar scheme in 38 cities and towns in the state. The Centre would extend a subsidy of Rs 1.50 lakh while the state would extend the same amount for each of the flat, he said. The housing project was taken up at a cost of Rs 11,530 crore. Mr Naidu said that 1,20,106 houses were sanctioned to AP under Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) in 38 urban areas. The government aimed to construct two lakh houses in the urban areas by 2022. The Chief Minister made it clear that the government would not compromise the quality of the houses. The government had taken cue from Singapore and Japan for the construction of houses for the poor here. He said that Rs.1,830 crore would be spent for development of exterior infrastructure at the housing colonies. Mr Naidu alleged that Rs 4,000 crore was misappropriated in the name of constructing houses for the poor during previous governments regime in the combined AP state. He said that as many as 8,000 houses, constructed by the erstwhile governments in Tirupati, were either reconstructed or repaired as quality was not maintained which put them in bad state. Union Urban Development and I&B minister M Venkaiah Naidu addressing the programme from New Delhi through video linkage, said that the Centre determined to fulfill the wish of own a house of houseless poor. The Centre had granted 20.25 lakh houses under PMAY scheme to various states in the country of which 1,93,403 houses were granted to Andhra Pradesh. Mr Venkaiah said that erstwhile Union government started construction of 7.50 lakh houses of which the construction of 2.50 lakh houses had been completed by the Modi led government during the last three years. He predicted that the housing sector would get a boon with the implementation of GST. Municipal Administration minister P Narayana alleged that 1100 houses constructed in the erstwhile government in the United AP were being demolished as they were found to be in a dilapidated state. A host of ministers and dignitaries were present.UNI DP CS 1513 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0275-940219.Xml
Police arrested the accused Sunder Raja Ratnam in Mumbai on June 17. He will brought to the city today.

So far eight people were arrested in the case and recovered 3.5 kgs of gold.

Police are expecting some more gold to be recovered after the arrest of Raja Ratnam.

It may be recalled that the dacoit gang made off with 42kg of gold jewellery at gunpoint. They posed as CBI officials to force the employees of the finance company to open the lockers.

The armed gang executed the dacoity in broad daylight in a span of 20 minutes and sped away in a black Sorpio vehicle.UNI VV CS 1517

-- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0275-940268.Xml
The Prime Minister told the Chief Minister "As per your suggestion we have decided upon a dalit candidate for the Presidential Post" and requested Mr Rao for his party support for the Candidate.

The Chief Minister immediately on receiving the call from the Prime Minister consulted his party colleagues.

Later he conveyed his party support to the Prime Minister for the Presidential Candidate, an official statement said here today.UNI VV CS 1544

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Thirty Nine Probationer Nurses of 41stbatch of General Nursing and Midwifery course of College of Nursing,Command Hospital Air Force Bengaluru were commissioned into theMilitary Nursing Service after successful completion of professionaltraining as an Officer in the rank of Lieutenant at a Passing OutParade held at the Command Hospital, Air Force here today. The students of Batch No.41 were enrolled for training in Sept2013 and appeared for All India final year exam conducted by ArmedForces Medical Services Examining Board in February 2017 and all 39candidates have successfully graduated. The first three positionsin All India merit were bagged by the students of College ofNursing, CHAFB Bengaluru. Lieutenant Madhu Sharma stood first in allIndia order of merit and 1st in her batch. She was awarded theCommandant's gold medal and Air Force Station Jalahalli rollingtrophy. Lieutenant Preeti Patel secured second position in all Indiamerit and was second in her batch, she received the Commandant'ssilver medal. Mrs Sushila Jain Memorial Silver Medal for the BestBed side Nurse was awarded to Lieutenant Pooja Sharma for beingexceptionally competent in clinical area and Lieutenant Nehareceived the Air Force Rolling trophy for all rounder and bestoutgoing student. While addressing the newly commissioned Nursing Officers AirVice Marshal M V Singh, Commandant, Command Hospital Air ForceBengaluru, emphasised that care, commitment and compassion are thecore values of nursing profession. One needs to exhibit professionalcompetence with utmost dedication to practice this noble profession. He motivated the newly commissioned officers to keep abreast withtechnological advancements and to practice their profession withdevotion, he added. The commissioned young officers have been posted to variousservice hospitals all over the country. UNI CNR MSP CS 1522 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0284-940284.Xml
Several factors including increased use ofartificial intelligence (automation) and restrictions over issue ofVisas by various countries have led to slowdown in the growth of ITindustry the world over and India was not an exception to itKarnataka IT and BT minister Priyank Kharge informed the LegislativeCouncil here today. Answering a question from BJP member Capt Ganesh Karnik duringthe question hour, the Minister said to counter the slowdown, theKarnataka government had taken steps like focusing on skillorientation for engineering graduates and enhancing the skill setsto make the youth job ready to fill the gap of the IT industryneeds. The Minister said the State with the government support hadcreated a huge talent pool as well as improved skill sets among theyouth through special orientation programmes. The government had also taken enough steps to meet thegrievances of the IT industry, he added. Mr Kharge said that media reports had suggested that therewas huge job losses in the sector across the world but the exactvolume of such job losses was yet to be assessed. The government haddiscussed the issue with members of NASSCOM, the IT industry body,who had stressed upon improving the skill sets of graduating engineers. To give a boost to the IT sector to create more jobs, thegovernment had launched I-4, KESDM and Startup policies. Under theseschemes the government would provide various sops to youth who wantto start Startups. Giving out figures, Mr Kharge said in the IT sector 61,500direct jobs were created in 2014-15, 49,500 in 2015-16 and 52,500 in 2016-17. He said to enhance the skills among the youth, state-run KEONICShad opened 254 training centres and during the previous academicyear it had trained 25,100 youth. It had also opened Centres ofExcellence in Aerospace, data science, artificial intelligence,robotics and cyber security. The government had created a corpus ofover Rs 340 crore in the current budget for the purpose. To train youth in other industrial sectors the government hadlaunched 'Yuva Yuga' scheme and had already provided industrialtraining to 1.10 lakh youth. According to NASSCOM, IT exports from Karnataka, top state inthe country in the IT sector, was to the tune of about Rs 2.20 lakhcrore in 2015-16 and direct employment in the sector will be around10 lakh people.UNI RS CNR CS 1525 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0284-940323.Xml
Replying to a question by S P Sankanur (BJP) in the LegislativeCouncil, the Minister said that there were 634 quakes in ShivamoggaDistrict, followed by 273 in Kolar, 276 in Bidar, 195 in Vijayapuraand 160 in Belagavi.

While there were 8 quake Doctors in Bengaluru City, in Bengalururural, Ramanagaram, Chikkamagalur and Mangaluru Districts they didnot exist, he added.

The Minister said that if any Doctors found practicing with fake certificates they would attract Rs 25,000 fine first and if foundcontinuing his practice he will be slapped fine upto Rs 2.5 lakhand jail term for One year. And if one continues to practice evenafter convicted, they will be sent to prison for 3 years besidesslapping a fine of Rs 5 lakh.

Mr Kumar said that a Committee has been set up to identify fakeDoctors and it would be submitting its report within one month.

He said that the State government is taking all steps to provideprotection to RMP and Unani Doctors practicing.UNI MSP CNR CS 1601

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The Punjab Council of Ministers (CoM), led by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, today gave its formal approval to the budgetary proposals to be presented by Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal in the Vidhan Sabha tomorrow. A spokesperson for the Chief Minister's Office said the CoM also approved restructuring of the departments of Governance Reforms and Removal of Grievances by merging them and renaming the merged entity as 'Department of Governance Reforms and Public Grievances'. The move is aimed at improving and synchronising the existing online grievances redressal mechanisms for effective citizen service delivery, which would not only reduce the number of complaints but also bring in governance reforms. Additionally, the Department of Governance Reforms has also been mandated to bring e-Governance in all departments of the state and usher in administrative reforms. The merger is also in line with the pattern followed in the Government of India, where the department concerned is known as Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances, under the Ministry of Personnel, said the spokesperson. In another decision, the CoM approved certain amendments in the Punjab Infrastructure (Development & Regulation) Act, 2002 through a draft Bill. The proposed Punjab Infrastructure (Development & Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2017 will be tabled in the current budget session in the State Assembly for enactment. The spokesperson said this would enable crediting of the receipt of Infrastructure Development Fees to the Consolidated Fund of the State instead of Punjab Infrastructure Development Fund. It will also enable provision of budgetary grant to the Development Fund. The CoM also gave its nod to a proposal to amend Section 26-A of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914, for fixing the location of liquor vends on National and State Highways, thus removing hotels, restaurants and clubs from the restrictions on serving of liquor within 500 meters of highways. By amending Section 26-A of Punjab Excise Act, 1914, all ambiguities for serving of liquor at hotel, restaurants and clubs would be removed by adding provisions whereby it is cleared that no retail vend would be opened within 500 meter of the National and State Highways, but these restrictions shall not apply to the hotels, restaurants and clubs situated on the National and State Highways. The CoM gave a go-ahead to the draft amendment Bill, 2017, in this regard, to be tabled during the current budget session for enactment. The Council also approved the setting up of a dedicated Horticulture University to promote crop diversification in the state, to help in bringing changes in cropping patterns to include the planting of vegetables, fruits, herbs, aromatic and medicinal herbs, fiber and tuber crops, sericulture, fodder crops and floriculture. At present, the total area under fruit plans and vegetables is approximately 3 lac hectares in Punjab, constituting only approximately 4% of the total and being a fraction of country's area. They approved the proposal of Local Government for amending the Punjab Municipal Fund Act, 2006 and Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Fund Act, 2011 to pave way for the implementation of Punjab State Goods & Service Tax Bill, 2017. Tabling of I K Gujral Punjab Technical University (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 was also approved for enactment during the ongoing budget session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha.UNI JS SW 1550 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0292-940369.Xml
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday showered praise on Governor Ram Nath Kovind, whom the ruling NDA earlier in the day named as its candidate for the July 17 presidential election, saying he is "personally glad" over his candidature. However, Nitish Kumar was non-committal on whether his Janata Dal-United (JD-U) will support Kovind. "Kovind has discharged his duties in an unbiased manner as the Bihar Governor. He has worked as per the Constitution and upheld the dignity of the Governor's post. His was an ideal relation with the state government," Nitish Kumar said after meeting Kovind at Raj Bhavan here. He said he congratulated Kovind, a Dalit leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party, on his nomination as the National Democratic Alliance candidate, and added that "I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate". As to whether the JD-U will support his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: "It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and Congress President Sonia Gandhi on this issue. We will discuss the issue later and decide." Kovind is likely to leave Patna for Delhi on Monday evening to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. --IANS mak-sid-ik/tsb/vt ( 215 Words) 2017-06-19-17:26:20 (IANS)
Opposition parties today were guarded in their reaction on the BJP's announcement of Bihar Governor and Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's Presidential nominee while the Congress and the Left attacked the ruling party for its ''unilateral'' decision. BJP ally Shiv Sena also avoided any comment and said it would take a decision on Presidential candidate after intra-party consultations. Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut declined to say anything beyond this. However, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar welcomed the nomination of Mr Kovind. Former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi and President of the Hindustan Awami Morcha also supported the BJP's pick. Mr Manjhi said, '' We support the decision taken by the BJP in its Parliamentary Board meeting." He congratulated BJP national president Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for choosing the Bihar Governor as the party's presidential candidate. Congress senior leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, however, said,'' The ruling BJP had said that they wanted to arrive at a consensus and created a three-member committee, which talked to us but did not float any names. ''Today, they unilaterally announced the name. ''We did not expect it. For our part we will go by consensus and that was the decision taken at the 18-party meeting called by Congress President Sonia Gandhi,''' he said. Mr Azad said the non-NDA parties will meet in Parliament on June 22 at 1630 hrs for further deliberations. CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury also flayed the BJP for announcing the name without discussing it with the Opposition. ''Instead of coming back to us with any proposal for Presidential nominee,they just announced the name. We will take a call on it on June 22,'' Mr Yechury added. BSP chief Mayawati said that though her party does not approve of Mr Kovind's political leanings, it cannot be negative towards him as he is a Dalit. She said her party will be positive towards his candidature provided the combined opposition does not come out with the name of a more able Dalit nominee. It would have been better, Ms Mayawati said, if the BJP had chosen a Dalit figure with a non-political background. RJD spokesperson Manoj Jha also said their party will take a decision at the upcoming meeting. JD-U leader Sharad Yadav said the name of the Presidential candidate will be discussed at the meeting. He added that the discussions would also cover the NDA's nominee. Lok Janshakti Party chief and Union Minister, Ramvilas Paswan, said,''Everyone should support the BJP's Presidential nominee.''UNI NY RP1712 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0099-940544.Xml
Tripura Deputy Speaker Pabitra Kar asked for upgradation of communication system of Northeast under Act East Policy of the centre while addressing 16th Annual Conference of North East Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (NERCPA-2017) held at Manipur last week. Mr Kar argued that Act East Policy is not a simple and easy task but need a collective, comprehensive and co-ordinated move with strong political will to meet the challenges of the region. He further added that the strategic location of Tripura between India and South East Asian Countries underlines the additional expectations and centre need to set up a separate Ministry to give special attention to implement the policy to bring development in the region. The deputy speaker however, today welcomed the Three MLA's from Bihar Assembly who arrived in the state on a two day visit that includes Ram Prit Paswan, Pramod Kumar, A Vijay Kumar Sinha accompanied by nine Bihar government officials.UNI BB AKM -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0213-940654.Xml
Anjali, who worked in Hindi serials, took extreme step late last night, police said.

She was found hanging by one of her relatives, with whom she was staying. They took her to a nearby hospital where doctors pronounced her dead.

No suicide note was recovered from the spot, police said and informed that her body was sent for a post-mortem.

An accidental death report has been registered, police added.UNI AAA SS SW 1728

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Those who come to the hills at night in the name of jolly rideare breaking rules at Chamundi hills.

Large gates are being erected to prevent the public enteringthe hills at nights. The residents of the hill are however allowedto commute.

Travelers were always suffering from some goons causingembarrassment to the tourists. There were a lot of complaints aboutthe issue at KR police station. Inspector Prakash has made this planunder the guidance of senior officials of the Police Department.CCTV cameras are being installed near the gates.

The Muzirai Department has provided the fund for the project.Police will employ a security guard who will patrol the hills toensure safety.UNI BSP MSP CS 1701

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Karnataka Minister for Water Resources M BPatil today held a meeting with senior officials of the Tourism,Archeology Department and Vijayapura district administration anddiscussed about making the Vijayapura as one of the prominenttourist destinations of India. Chairing the meeting, in which the Karnataka Tourism MinisterPriyanka Kharge was also present, the Minister emphasized the needfor improving infrastructure, amenities as well as presenting theworld famous Golgumbaz and Ibrahim Roza mausoleum, most popularheritage structure located in Vijayapura to the tourists coming fromall across the country and abroad. Referring the efforts of the Water Resources department inVijayapura, to clear debris and remove silt collected in theunderground water carriage systems in the historic town, theMinister insisted the officials to take measures to include these'ancient water carriage system' in the tourism map of the districtand also make it as a prominent tourist destinations. Maintaining that the department had spent few crores to de-siltthe ancient water carriage systems, located in the historicVijayapura city, the minister emphasized the need for presentingthese structure by well documenting it. "Thanks to the efforts of Water Resources department, severalBawadis (ancient water carriage systems for drinking water,developed during the rules of Bijapur, were relocated andrejuvenated" he added. The Minister recalled the efforts of the KBJNL, which wassuccessful in rejuvenating several tanks in the district includingthat of Begum Talab, Mamadapura and Bhootnal, which were refilledafter clearing the debris and removing silt collected for many decades. Mr Kharge assured all the help in exploiting the rich tourismpotential available in Vijayapura city and to develop it as one ofthe prominent 'model tourism destination' of the country.UNI MSP RS CS 1755 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0284-940683.Xml
After the announcement of NDA's Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind by BJP President Amit Shah in Delhi, the UPA partners will meet on June 22 to decide on their Presidential nominee, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Spokesperson Nawab Mallik said here today.Mr Mallik told reporters that NCP would also take part in the UPA meeting, to discuss the national and presidential elections.NDA candidate Mr Kovind, who is at present Governor of Bihar, joined BJP way back in 1991, and thereafter was a member of the Rajya Sabha for two terms. He is a Dalit face.The election to the post of President is likely be held on July 17, as the term of incumbent President Pranab Mukherjee gets over on July 24.UNI ST SS RJ SNU 1844 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0169-940766.Xml
Minister for Science & Technology, Dr Harshvardhan, today launched a Mobile App "Celebrating Yoga", to popularise Yoga and encourage people to participate in it for a scientifically healthy living.Developed by Department of Science & Technology, the App focuses on healthy life of citizens and its purpose is to improves productivity and economy of the country as a whole.The Department of Science & Technology has also launched a research programme "Science and Technology of Yoga and Meditation (SATYAM)" under its Cognitive Science Research Initiative (CSRI). As Yoga and Meditation are interdisciplinary endeavors that interface with Neuroscience, Medicine, Psychology, Engineering, Philosophy, etc, YOGA can contribute in a holistic way to derive integrated benefits. The App will enable in capturing both mass events organised in public places, schools and office complexes across the country and individual enthusiasts, who are performing yoga to promote the celebration of the day and yoga performances. The App will be connected with Google Map where shared information can been seen by the users. Subsequently the information posted will also be visible on DST website through a social wall. UNI SHS SNU 2213 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-940967.Xml
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday extended full support to NDA's presidential nominee, Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, saying that the decision to elect President is above political considerations. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to me about the Presidential nominee. He sought support of the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind. So, BJD has decided to extend its support to Kovind," he said. He further said that the Office of President of India is above political considerations and BJD wants to keep it above politics. Earlier Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao also welcomed the NDA government's decision. Janata Dal (United) chief and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed happiness that the Bihar Governor would be the NDA's candidate for the President elections. He, however, said a detailed discussion would be held on the matter within the JD (U). He was speaking to the media here after congratulating Kovind. Nitish also said that "I had a word with Laluji and Sonia Gandhi and there will be discussion on this. I have told them about my views". Telangana Chief Minister and TRS Chief Rao also extended his support to NDA's presidential candidate after speaking to Prime Minister Modi. Earlier in the day, Kovind met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah here. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">Met Shri Ram Nath Kovind. <a href="https://t.co/fM9fg5mAnA">pic.twitter.com/fM9fg5mAnA</a></p> Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/876822938833502209">June 19, 2017</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Kovind before leaving for New Delhi to meet the Prime Minister thanked the people of Bihar for their support. Shah had announced the name of Kovind as NDA's consensus candidate for the post of Indian President following which Prime Minister Modi reached out to Congress president Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh to seek their party's support for Kovind. Prime Minister Modi also spoke to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswamy over NDA's presidential candidate pick. The Prime Minister said that Kovind will make an exceptional President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised. However, the decision did not go down well with some of the political parties with Congress alleging that the announcement was made without taking the grand old party into confidence while BJP's ally Shiv Sena termed it a political move to lure vote bank. "The Centre apprised the senior leaders, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh about the announcement over phone after taking the decision. So there is no question of mutual consent. We didn't expect this from them," said senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad. He further said that the grand old party would not comment on NDA's Presidential nominee as of now and would meet on June 22 to formally discuss the matter. Joining the critics of NDA's Presidential nominee, Shiv Sena said it would not extend its support if the Centre is eyeing a vote bank by nominating a Dalit face for the upcoming President polls. "If someone is trying to make a Dalit a President with the purpose of gaining a vote bank then we are not with them, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said. Thackeray, however, said that they would extend their support only if the decision was taken for the development of the nation. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress(TMC) chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee didn't seem happy with the Kovind's candidature. She said that someone of the stature of President Pranab Mukherjee, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advani ji may have been made the candidate. "I am not saying that the Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit to be the President. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP they have made him the candidate," Mamata said. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati also expressed dissent over the decision saying that she is not satisfied with Kovind's political ideology, but cannot reject his Dalit background. Mayawati told ANI that it could have been better if BJP would have selected a name from a non-political background. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) said also seemed miffed with the move and said the way Kovind's name was announced it portends that there would be a political contest. Yechury said, "Kovind ji was the chief of RSS's Dalit branch. So somewhere it is a political fight or contest. When Home Minister Rajnath Singh and I&B minister Venkaiah Naidu came to meet us, they said that they want to build a consensus. When we asked on whom they want to build consensus, they had no answer then. They said that when they decide, they will come back to us with a proposal. But instead of coming to us with the proposal they announced the candidate. Now we will take a call." The election for the next President of India is to be held on July 17 as President Pranab Mukherjee will demit the office on July 24. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued the notification in this regard and the process of the nomination has started that will continue till June 28. (ANI)
"Both leaders exchanged views on developments of mutual interest, specifically, climate change. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to take forward implementation of the Paris Agreement," a PMO release said.

Modi also congratulated Trudeau on the 150th Anniversary of the Canadian Confederation this year.

"He appreciated the steady all round progress in diverse areas of bilateral engagement with Canada. Both leaders agreed to continue communication and cooperation to promote stronger ties," said the release.

--IANS spk/vd

( 117 Words)

2017-06-19-23:12:36 (IANS)
Seeking increase in the financial support from the Government, editors of small and medium newspapers today said that it was not possible for any newspaper to sustain in the state without adequate support.A delegation of editors of the small and medium newspapers today called on the Minister for Information, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali to discuss with him the various issues related to the advertisement support for the newspapers in the state.The delegation sought increased financial support, by way of advertisements, from the Government especially for the small and medium newspapers. They said it is not possible for any newspaper to sustain in the state without adequate financial support from the Government.During the meeting, the Minister gave the delegation a patient hearing and assured them of all possible financial support from the Government to keep the small and medium newspapers afloat.Choudhary Zulfikar said the Government has earmarked a budget of Rs 30-crore for under advertisements for newspapers the current financial year while around Rs 32-crore were paid to the newspapers last year.He said the Government also cleared a liability of around Rs 11-crore of the newspapers which had accumulated over a period of time due to lopsided advertisement distribution.The Minister said the Government has brought in maximum transparency in advertisement distribution and for the first time in the history of the Information Department, the payments made to the individual newspapers have been uploaded on the official website of the Department.He said while the Department of Information would continue to provide financial support to the newspapers by way of advertisements, it would, however, ensure judicious distribution of advertisements in the most transparent manner. He said the Department is in the process of categorisation of the newspapers so that all the newspapers get assured advertisements as per their entitlement.Secretary, Information Department MH Malik, and Director, Information Department, Muneer-ul-Islam were also present during the meeting.UNI BAS SNU 2259 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-940973.Xml
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal congratulated Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind on being nominated as NDA's Presidential candidate. Mr Kovind is the NDA's candidate for the Presidential post. A lawyer by profession, Mr Kovind had also been BJP's Scheduled Caste Morcha chief.Agriculture Minister Om Parkash Dhankar also congratulated Mr Kovind.UNI JS SNU 2254 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0292-940958.Xml
One of Donald Trump's personal attorneys categorically denied that the President is under investigation for obstruction of justice, despite Twitter posts in which Trump apparently acknowledges it. "The President is not under investigation by the special counsel," Jay Sekulow said in an interview on NBC's "Meet the Press". "The President has not been and is not under investigation" for obstruction of justice, he added, referring to press reports saying that special counsel Robert Mueller is also investigating Trump, Efe news reported. The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources, reported on Thursday that Mueller, who is investigating possible Russian interference in the 2016 election and the contacts between Moscow and the Trump campaign team, had included in his probe the possibility that Trump could have attempted to obstruct justice. After those reports, Trump himself had once again resorted to Twitter, where he posted an enigmatic message on Thursday in which he seemed to acknowledge that he was under investigation. "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt," Trump tweeted, referring to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who in early May had written a memo for Trump recommending that former FBI chief James Comey be fired. Sekulow, however, emphasized that Trump was referring to the "fake" story in The Washington Post and denied that the tweet was an admission by the President that is being investigated. Mueller was named as special counsel after Trump abruptly fired Comey, who up to his dismissal had been heading the Russia probe into Moscow's alleged interference in the US presidential election. --IANS vgu/ ( 279 Words) 2017-06-19-03:02:10 (IANS)
The defector was found in the Han River in Seoul on Sunday, according to the South's Joint Chiefs of Staff as cited by Yonhap news agency. South Korean authorities were interrogating the man to determine his motive for fleeing to the South.

This is the second desertion in less than a week after a North Korean soldier fled to South Korea through the Demilitarized Zone, the heavily fortified border that divides the two Koreas, on Tuesday, the first such case since September 2016, Efe news reported.

The number of North Korean refugees in South Korea reached 30,000 at the end of last year, according to the South's Ministry of Unification.

Most deserters, however, escape by crossing North Korea's northern border with China.

The annual number of defectors steadily increased from 1,384 in 2005 to 2,914 in 2009, but fell between 2011-2015 owing to stricter control by North Korea at the border and tougher punishments for those caught fleeing, according to the ministry's data.

North and South Korea are technically still at war, as the Korean War (1950-1953) ended with an armistice but no peace treaty has ever been signed.

--IANS vgu/

( 230 Words)

2017-06-19-05:46:27 (IANS)
The third gunman was missing after the attack on Le Campement resort, the CNN reported.

Three UN staff members were injured and taken to a hospital.

At least two tourists were killed and 32 others were rescued in the attack.

In an earlier statement, Mali's Ministry of Security and Civil Protection said the resort attack was carried out by "armed individuals, certainly terrorists." The statement said a Malian anti-terror force was on the scene.

"They [the armed men] exchanged gunshots with members of the special anti-terrorist force (FORSAT) who had arrived just a few minutes after the attack. FORSAT managed to secure the surroundings of the site. The operation to secure the premises is in progress," the statement added. (ANI)
The missile attack on Sunday aimed to punish the "Takfiri terrorists" for their recent twin attacks in Iran's capital Tehran, the IRGC's Public Relations said in a statement.

It said that the mid-range missiles of the IRGC were launched from the Iranian western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan provinces, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the reports, large number of terrorists have been killed in the attacks and a large amount of weapons and ammunition have been destroyed in the attack, the statement said.

The IRGC vowed to respond determinedly to any terrorist attack against the Islamic republic.

On June 7, the Islamic State (IS) militants carried out twin operations in the capital Tehran on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Rouhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 and injured dozens.

On Tuesday, commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) said that Saudi Arabia has been behind June 7 terrorist attacks in Tehran.

"We have obtained accurate intelligence that Saudi Arabia supported the terrorists and asked them to carry out attacks in Iran," Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari was quoted as saying by semi-official Mehr news agency.

--IANS vgu/

( 226 Words)

2017-06-19-07:54:18 (IANS)
While there are no official confirmation of how many people have been injured, the police and the Ambulance Service have said there are a number of casualties.

According to reports, at least ten people were hit outside the mosque with three of them being critically injured.

The London Ambulance Service said in a statement, "We were called at 12.15 a.m. to reports of a road traffic collision at Seven Sisters Road."

"We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist responses teams to the scene. An advance trauma team from London's Air Ambulance has also been dispatched by car," it added.

Meanwhile, Harud Khan, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain, tweeted he was "shocked and outraged to hear a van has intentionally run over worshippers leaving Ramadan night prayers."

The Muslim Council works "to promote consultation, cooperation and coordination on Muslim affairs in the United Kingdom." (ANI)
First Secretary of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad Michael Wright smashed his vehicle into two private and two police vehicles in Abpara area on Sunday, Dunya News reported.

No casualty was reported in the incident, however, all the four vehicles were severely damaged.

According to the report, police reached the spot after the incident and arrested the accused.

An investigation into the accident is underway. (ANI)
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lashed out at US President Donald Trump's administration and what he characterized as its hostility to the Islamic Republic."This inexperienced group has not recognized the people and leaders of Iran," he said, according to the website for state TV. "When they get hit in the mouth, at that time they'll know what's going on."Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials have ramped up their criticism of the United States in recent weeks after Trump went on an official visit last month to Saudi Arabia, Iran's main regional rival.During that visit, Trump singled out Iran as a key source of funding and support for militant groups. He has also criticized the nuclear deal between Iran and six major powers, including the United States, that led to the lifting of most sanctions against Iran, in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Trump has said Washington would review the deal but stopped short of pledging to scrap it.Iran and the United States cut diplomatic ties shortly after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution and enmity to Washington has long been a rallying point for hardline supporters of Khamenei in Iran.Khamenei has accused the United States and its regional ally Saudi Arabia of funding hardline Sunni militants, including Islamic State, which carried out its first attack in Iran earlier this month, killing 17 people.Riyadh has denied involvement in the suicide bombings and gun attacks on Iran's parliament and the mausoleum of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.Khamenei said in his speech yesterday that any efforts to destabilize the Islamic Republic would not succeed."In the past 38 years, when has there been a time when you haven't wanted to change the Islamic system?" Khamenei said, according to Fars News. "Your head has hit the rock each time and always will." REUTERS RSD 0409 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-939890.Xml
Lester Cohen/Getty Images for Wonder Productions, Inc.Following unconfirmed reports that Ryan Seacrest is about to sign a deal to host ABC's reboot of American Idol, TMZ is now reporting that the network is eyeing Lionel Richie for one of its open judge spots.

Sources tell TMZ that producers think Lionel has the personality, as well as the music biz credentials, to make him the perfect judge. However, TMZ says it's not certain if producers have actually reached out Lionel about the job.

Katy Perry is getting a reported $25 million for judging the show, and Ryan will be making somewhere between $10 and $15 million, according to the Hollywood Reporter -- but again, his participation is unconfirmed. The question is, how much does that leave for Lionel and a yet-to-be identified third judge?

American Idol is slated to return in 2018. Starting next month, Lionel is touring with Mariah Carey.

Copyright  2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
The European Union may send a new security mission to help stabilise Iraq after the expected recapture of Mosul from Islamic State, diplomats said, cautioning that plans were at an early stage.EU foreign ministers will hold a first discussion on Monday in Luxembourg and consider the deployment of an EU Security Sector Reform Advice and Assist Team which could train Iraq security officials, according to a draft statement seen by Reuters.Iraq has formally requested EU help, diplomats said.While a small step, any such effort could signal an end to France and Germany's aversion to European Union involvement in Middle East wars in the wake of the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, which Berlin and Paris opposed.Both countries are involved separately in the fight against Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq, but the EU's militaries have struggled to work as a bloc despite broad know-how in non-combat training roles.An EU mission in Iraq in 2006 to help train judges and police was widely regarded as a failure because it was too small and too limited in duration, an EU official said.EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has backed a greater role for the bloc abroad, seeking to develop a common EU defence alliance to match its economic clout.Any EU mission might dovetail with similar planning at NATO, which this month joined the US-led coalition against Islamic State, and is considering training more Iraqi soldiers.Islamic State is on the verge of defeat in its Iraqi stronghold of Mosul and bracing for an assault against its de facto capital in Raqqa, Syria. But US officials are concerned tribal groups may fight for control as the militants flee."We cannot afford to allow a vacuum to develop," said one EU diplomat briefed on the EU discussions. "We and others are ready to step in. Just how we do that is to be decided."The EU's foreign service, the European External Action Service, is expected to present proposals soon.French diplomats say an EU mission could build up Iraqi counter-terrorism forces, establish functioning justice and interior ministries and give strategic security advice to the Iraqi government, as well as train police.Another EU diplomat said the bloc had a duty to help in a non-combat role, partly to avoid even greater flows of refugees to Europe.REUTERS RSD 0719 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-939899.Xml
Gunmen attacked a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates just outside Mali's capital, Bamako, killing two people in what the security minister called a terrorist attack, while 36 guests were rescued.Four gunmen arriving on motorbikes and a car stormed Le Campement Kangaba, near Dougourakoro, to the east of the capital Bamako, a resort that foreign residents visit for weekend breaks. Malian security forces backed by French troops deployed to push them out."At first we thought they were armed bandits but we know how armed bandits operate, they don't hold territory, so now we think it is a terrorist attack," Mali's Security Minister Salif Traore told journalists late Sunday outside the entrance to the resort, part of which was on fire.Malian security forces, United Nations peacekeeping mission vehicles and French military armoured vehicles surrounded the resort, according to a Reuters witness. A helicopter circled overhead.In a later news conference, Traore said Malian forces fatally shot two of the attackers but the other two escaped and were being pursued. An attacker had been wounded and fled, leaving a submachine gun and six bottles of explosives behind, the ministry said earlier."We're now in the process of combing the area to verify no one is hiding anywhere," Traore said.One of victims killed in the attack was a French-Gabonese citizen, while the other has not yet been identified, Traore said. Both were killed by gunfire. Two hotel staff workers and two guests were also wounded by bullets, he said.Eight policemen were wounded in the shootout with the attackers, Traore said.Security has gradually worsened across Mali since French forces pushed back Islamist and Tuareg rebel fighters in 2013 from swathes of the north they had occupied the previous year.Initially concentrated in the desert north, attacks have increasingly struck the centre and south, around Bamako. Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and another militant group claimed responsibility for an attack on a Bamako hotel in 2015 in which 20 people were killed.Of the 36 people who escaped unharmed, there were 13 French citizens, 14 Malians, and also Spanish, Dutch, Egyptian and Kenyan nationals, Traore said.Daniel Okwogo, a Kenyan guest who witnessed the attack, said that about 30 minutes after his arrival he heard the gunshots. "So ... we took a cover, slipped under the bed and then the security team came and evacuated us," Okwogo said yesterday.Witness Boubacar Sangare was just outside the compound during the attack. "Westerners were fleeing the encampment while two plainclothes police exchanged fire with the assailants," he said.French troops and a 10,000-strong UN peacekeeping force have battled to stabilise Mali, a former French colony riven by ethnic conflict and plagued by dozens of armed groups.A spokesman for French forces in Mali declined to comment. REUTERS RSD 0729 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-939907.Xml
Five Thai soldiers were killed and four others injured on Monday in a blast in Pattani province, the police said. The number and identity of the attackers remain unknown, reports Xinhua news agency. --IANS ksk/vt ( 43 Words) 2017-06-19-12:08:11 (IANS)
French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after attack on a luxury resort in the country, and pledged France's full support for the country, Macron's office said today."During their exchange, he conveyed France's full support to Mali's president during this ordeal," said Macron's office.Gunmen yesterday attacked a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates just outside Mali's capital, Bamako, killing two people in what the security minister called a terrorist attack, while 36 guests were rescued.REUTERS SDR 1241 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0431-940087.Xml
Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi headed today to Saudi Arabia, the first leg of a Middle East tour that will also include Iran and Kuwait, in a diplomatic effort to foster regional reconciliation, his office said.Abadi's visit to Saudi Arabia aims to promote reconciliation between the Sunni Muslim kingdom and majority Shi'ite Iraq and also to help heal deep and bitter divisions between Iraq's Shi'ites and its Sunni Muslim minority.Abadi had been due to visit Riyadh last week but postponed his trip to avoid appearing to take sides in a diplomatic dispute that erupted between Qatar and several other Arab states including Saudi Arabia, officials have said.Qatar is facing a severe economic and diplomatic boycott by Saudi Arabia and its regional allies, which accuse Doha of funding terrorism, fomenting regional unrest and cosying up to their enemy Iran. Qatar denies the charges.REUTERS SDR 1329 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0431-940126.Xml
Moscow sees the downing of a Syrian government warplane by the United States as an "act of aggression and support of terrorists", TASS news agency quoted Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov as saying today. REUTERS AKC 1551 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0386-940399.Xml
President Donald Trump will meet with the chief executives of technology companies including Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc today as the White House looks to the private sector for help in cutting government waste and improving services.White House officials said on a conference call on Friday that the administration believed there was an "economic opportunity" to save up to 1 trillion dollars over 10 years by significantly cutting government information technology costs, reducing government costs through improved IT, leveraging government buying power and cutting fraud across government agencies.The meeting with nearly 20 chief executives comes as the White House pushes to shrink government, cut federal employees and eliminate regulations. Many business executives are eager to work with the new administration as they face numerous regulatory and other policy issues.In May, Trump created an "American Technology Council," the latest in a series of efforts to modernize the US government. He signed a separate order in March to overhaul the federal government and tapped son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner to lead a White House Office of American Innovation to leverage business ideas and potentially privatize some government functions.Others planning to attend include Alphabet Inc Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Chairman John Doerr and the chief executives of Microsoft Corp IBM Corp, Mastercard Inc, Intel Corp, Qualcomm Inc, Oracle Corp and Adobe Systems Inc, a White House official said yesterday.In May, Trump asked lawmakers to cut 3.6 trillion in government spending over the next decade, taking aim at healthcare and food assistance programs for the poor in a budget that also boosted spending on defense.A 2016 US Government Accountability Office report estimated the US government spent more than 80 billion dollars in IT annually, excluding classified operations. In 2015, there were at least 7,000 separate IT investments by the US government and some agencies were using systems that had components at least 50 years old.Chris Liddell, a White House official who directs the American Technology Council and is a former Microsoft and General Motors Co chief financial officer, said on Friday the Trump administration aimed to improve government services to at least the level of the private sector.VISA PROGRAMThe tech CEOs and White House also plan to discuss Trump's review announced in April of the US visa program for bringing high-skilled foreign workers into the country.More than a dozen Trump administration officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Kushner and Liddell will hold group sessions with the chief executives before they jointly meet with Trump.The council also seeks to boost the cyber security of US government IT systems and wants to learn from private-sector practices. In 2015, hackers exposed the personal information of 22 million people from US government databases.In a document outlining the working-group sessions, the White House said the federal government should require "making it easy for agencies to use the cloud."The White House thinks it can take lessons from credit card companies in significantly reducing fraud. A 2016 government audit found that in Medicaid alone, there was 29 billion dollars in fraud in a single year.Following Trump's June 1 decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accords, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk and Walt Disney CEO Robert Iger stepped down from White House advisory panels. White House officials said the dispute had little impact and that they had to turn away tech leaders from Monday's event because of lack of spaceREUTERS AKC 1628 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0387-940366.Xml
Warships from Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia held manoeuvres today in waters plagued by insurgency and banditry off north Borneo, launching coordinated patrols in a region where Islamic State influence is growing.Helicopters and surveillance planes flew overhead as ministers and army chiefs from the countries attended ceremonies to launch the patrols, with security taking on added urgency after militants overran a town in the southern Philippines.The Philippine military has said that some of the militants, both domestic insurgents who have pledged allegiance to Islamic State and some foreign fighters, may have mingled with evacuees to slip away during the battle for Marawi City that has raged for almost four weeks."We need to watch out for the 500 to 600 terrorists there, 257 of whom have been killed already. The rest, based on information we are getting, are blending in with refugees to get out," said Indonesian military chief Gatot Nurmantyo.The spectacular collapse in security in the southern Philippines has alarmed neighbours such as Indonesia and Malaysia.Indonesia has deployed three Sukhoi fighters to help with security in case militants try to flee southwards towards Indonesia, the head of the Tarakan air base, Colonel Didik Krisyanto, told the state news agency Antara.Indonesia also inaugurated a maritime command centre in the naval base of Tarakan, a town in the province of North Kalimantan on Borneo island, witnessed by the defence ministers and army chiefs from the three countries.Malaysian defence minister Hishammuddin Hussein said the three countries would increase the sharing of information because what had happened in Marawi could happen elsewhere.The neighbours would not allow Islamic State "to set foot, even just an inch, in our region", he said.Maritime command centres will also be set up in Tawau in Malaysia's Sabah state, also on Borneo, and Bongao in the Philippines."We see these functioning as a triangle, like a spider's web, where everything inside the triangle will be monitored," said Nurmantyo said of the centres.A port town, Tarakan is just south of the Malaysian side of Borneo and looks out across to Mindanao in the southern Philippines, a sprawling island that has suffered from hostage taking and piracy for decades. Indonesian naval authorities had asked residents including fishermen in border areas facing the Philippines to report any suspicious people, Antara reported. Illustrating the insecurity in the area, Eman, a 31-year-old fisherman from a village near Tarakan, said he was robbed three times last year by pirates in speed boats. "They fired warning shots one time and forced us to lie face down," he said. REUTERS SW 1714 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0386-940572.Xml
Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with India's Tata Advanced Systems today to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.India's air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.But Modi's Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with U.S. President Donald Trump's America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States."F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.Sweden's Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June. 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s."This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defense contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250REUTERS SW 1710 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0387-940585.Xml
Turkey respects Greece's decision not to extradite eight soldiers who fled to Greece after last July's attempted coup, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said today."We would like Greece to extradite those who clearly staged a coup against our nation. We respect the judiciary's decision, but we do not want these putschists to strike a blow to Turkish-Greek relations," Yildirim said at a joint news conference with his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras in Athens.In May, a Greek court blocked a second extradition request by Turkey for the final two soldiers among a group of eight who fled to Greece following the coup attempt, drawing an angry rebuke from Ankara. REUTERS AKC 1713 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-940602.Xml
A man who drove a van into worshippers near a London mosque today was not known to the security services in terms of far-right extremism, British minister Ben Wallace said."This man was not known to the authorities in the space of extremism or far-right extremism," Wallace, junior minister for security in the Home Office, or interior ministry, told Sky News.The attack on a group of people leaving prayers at the Muslim Welfare House and the nearby Finsbury Park Mosque in north London injured 10 people in what Prime Minister Theresa May has called a sickening, terrorist attack on Muslims.REUTERS AKC 1842 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-940853.Xml
An aircraft packed with 60 tons of Afghan plants with medicinal uses marked the opening of the first air cargo corridor between Afghanistan and India today.The cargo, worth about 5 million dollars, was the first in what officials from the two countries hope will be many flights allowing Afghan and Indian companies to bypass Pakistan.Islamabad strictly limits the shipment of goods by land between India and Afghanistan and is often involved in border disputes with them."Our aim is to change Afghanistan to an exporter country," Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said at a ceremony marking the inaugural flight."As long as we are not an exporter country, then poverty and instability will not be eliminated."The cargo service aims to improve landlocked Afghanistan's links to markets abroad and boost the growth prospects of its agricultural and carpet industries while it battles a deadly Taliban insurgency, Indian officials have said."We will continue to assist you in various ways as this corridor expands and grows into a network of cargo flights as per demand of the market," India's ambassador to Afghanistan, Manpreet Vohra, told Ghani."There are bound to be some teething problems in any major initiatives such as this but my embassy and my government is committed to working together with your team to resolve all issues that may pop up from time to time."Afghanistan depends on the Pakistani port of Karachi for its foreign trade. It is allowed to send a limited amount of goods overland through Pakistan into India. Imports from India are not allowed along this route.Border crossings are often closed as Afghan and Pakistani forces clash over the disputed border. Afghan farmers have complained of fruit and other produce rotting without other options for shipping.Next week, a second flight to India is scheduled to depart from the southern city of Kandahar, carrying 40 tons of dried fruit. REUTERS AKC RP1854 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0432-940865.Xml
No injuries have been reported so far, said French television station BFMTV.

The Champs-Elysees avenue has been blocked after the intervention of police, Xinhua news agency reported.

In a message on their official Twitter account, police said an operation was ongoing in the Champs Elyses and citizens should avoid the area.

--IANS soni/bg

( 92 Words)

2017-06-19-20:18:10 (IANS)
Blistering heat and a clampdown on fine food and giveaways ensured a mellow start to the Paris Airshow this year, despite a flurry of orders triggered by the launch of a new Boeing jet.The world's largest aviation meeting usually takes place in a blur of champagne and jet fuel as aerospace giants celebrate multibillion-dollar deals under eye-popping flying displays.This year, the tone appears more frugal."Everybody is making savings this year. The teams have been asked to cut back a little on anything that might appear futile," an official with a French defence company said.Elsewhere, Airbus is cutting back on hospitality and cultivating a mood of austerity as it slashes spending after combining its headquarters and main planemaking division.It has halved the 800-900 staff attending previous shows, officials said. Boeing also set limits on staff attendance.Some delegates said Airbus was striking a more cautious image amid a sweeping ethics review."Everything is about compliance," said one insider.For all but the top VIPs, the France-based company's traditional gourmet lunches are being replaced by finger food, and refreshments are mostly of the non-indulgent variety."We'll be gone by Tuesday," quipped one disgruntled executive at the start of the June 19-25 event.Organisers said many companies had cut chalet space. That is partly because the number of exhibitors has risen, but it also reflects leaner times across the industry.Exhibition halls were also noticeably less stocked with trade show promotional materials, delegates said.It is not the first time air show hospitality has been placed on the back burner.In 2010, champagne was banned from some facilities as US arms firms cut back on anything that might suggest frills and perks to Pentagon planners and others weighing big defence cuts.This year, defence spending is on the rise again and chalets of arms firms are humming with activity. But the civil side of the aerospace industry is hunkering down to produce planes as cheaply as possible after a multi-year order boom.Although Boeing launched a new version of its 737 jet today, overall commercial orders are expected to be down after planemakers filled their order books in previous shows. REUTERS RJ 2215 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0098-941195.Xml
British Prime Minister Theresa May called on Russia to continue the use of "deconfliction" measures over the skies of Syria to reduce the risk of misunderstandings in what is a crowded airspace.Russia said today it would treat US-led coalition aircraft flying west of the River Euphrates in Syria as potential targets and track them with missile systems and military aircraft, but stopped short of saying it would shoot them down."There are deconfliction arrangements in place already in relation to activity that takes place over the skies of Syria and those deconfliction arrangements will continue," May told reporters in Downing Street.Her spokesman added that May called on Russia to continue to use these measures to "reduce the chance of misunderstandings over what is a crowded airspace". REUTERS RSD 2226 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0435-941202.Xml
"Three militants were killed and 11 detained following a Special Operation Force raid in Arghandab district of Kandahar province on Sunday," the Afghanistan Operational Coordination Group (AOCG) or command of Special Forces said in a statement on Monday.

In addition, five Taliban militants were detained in Shinwar District of eastern Nangarhar province on the same day, Xinhua quoted them as saying.

Afghan security forces have beefed up security operations against militants recently, as the Afghans have been witnessing a surge in attacks by Taliban and Islamic State (IS) affiliates across the country.

The Taliban has yet to make comments.

--IANS vgu/

( 136 Words)

2017-06-20-02:56:10 (IANS)
"One message to Iran: Don't threaten Israel," Netanyahu said on Monday during a weekly meeting of his Likud faction.

Netanyahu, who has repeatedly claimed that Iran is threatening Israel, said Israel is following "their actions and we follow their words", Xinhua news agency reported.

"The military and our security forces are constantly monitoring the activity of Iran in the region," Netanyahu said, according to a statement released by the Likud.

"This activity also includes their attempts to establish themselves in Syria and, of course, to transfer advanced weapons to Hezbollah and other operations," he said.

Netanyahu has been a vocal opponent of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, charging that Tehran is aiming to achieve nuclear weapons.

Earlier on Monday, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced that the Sunday attack on the "terrorists" in Syria's eastern region of Deir ez-Zor had been coordinated with the Syrian government.

Gen. Ramezan Sharif, head of the IRGC Public Relations Department, told Tasnim news agency that the IRGC fired six mid-range ballistic missiles at multiple targets, within a range of 650 to 700 km.

He confirmed that the missiles hit the targets, which included the headquarters, ammunition and logistic depots of IS operatives, saying "a large number of terrorists" were killed.

The attack came in the wake of a twin attack carried out by IS on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the capital Tehran on June 7, killing 17 and injuring dozens others.

--IANS vgu/

( 281 Words)

2017-06-20-03:36:30 (IANS)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 03:58:39|Editor: yan

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SKOPJE, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said here Sunday that his country will continue to provide unwavering support to Macedonia in its bid to join the European Union and NATO.

At a joint press conference with his Macedonian counterpart Nikola Dimitrov, the Turkish foreign minister said he strongly believed that Macedonia deserves that.

Cavusoglu on Sunday paid a working visit to Macedonia where he met with Macedonia's senior officials to exchange opinions on bilateral relations and possibilities for enhancement of the cooperation in many fields, especially in the economic sector, a press statement of Macedonia's foreign ministry said.

Cavusoglu also noted that Ankara would support any solution acceptable to Macedonia and Greece regard to their name dispute, adding that Macedonia's decision is important in this aspect.

Athens and Skopje are at odds over the use of the name of Macedonia since Greece's northern neighbor broke away from Yugoslavia in 1991.

Macedonia is the name of a northern province in Greece and Athens is worried that the use of the same name by the neighboring state could lead to territorial claims.

Greece has ruled out backing Macedonia for NATO and the EU membership until both sides reach an agreement over the name dispute.

Earlier, Turkish FM Cavusoglu was received by Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov where they discussed further enhancement of bilateral relations and cooperation.

They both expressed satisfaction from the traditional friendship and partnership, as well as the intensive communication in all spheres of mutual interest, Presidents press office informed.

According to the press release, President Ivanov stressed that Macedonia highly valued Turkey's support over the use of the country's constitutional name and its NATO accession.

Ivanov told the Turkish foreign minister that following the political crisis settlement, it was time to create a fresh incentive over Macedonia's NATO membership.

During a meeting, the two leaders focused on the need for information exchange between police and intelligence services, undertaking of joint operations, and finding effective means and methods for prevention and fight against the spreading of violent extremism and terrorism, the President's office said in a press release.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 04:03:41|Editor: Liu

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MOSCOW, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Russia's oil giant Rosneft said Sunday it had discovered a new oil field near the Laptev Sea, which could be the biggest on the shelf.

Rosneft said in a statement that it had discovered new hydrocarbon deposits when drilling an exploration well from the shore of the Khara-Tumus Peninsula on the shelf of the Khatanga Bay of the Laptev Sea, marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean off the coast of Russia's Siberia.

"On the basis of primary studies, it can be concluded that a new oil field has been discovered, and the volume of potential resource is increasing as the drilling continues. Core sampling continues at the moment," the statement read.

Russian Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Sergei Donskoi congratulated Rosneft on the discovery, which he said might set a new record.

"We can already speak about a considerable inflow of oil and thus, about an unique discovery of the largest oil field possible on the shelf," Donskoi wrote on his Facebook page on Sunday.

More big discoveries can be expected this year in the Khatanga Bay, the minister added.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 06:34:54|Editor: ying

A man walks past a restaurant in Granma Province, Cuba, June 9, 2017. Beyond pristine beaches and radiant sunshine almost the whole year round, Cuba harbors a historic treasure, which it now seeks to exploit as a tourist attraction. Granma, a province located about 675 km east of Havana, has been the stage for important events in Cuban history. As a consequence, it enjoys multiple locations that may be of interest to tourists seeking a touch of culture. (Xinhua/Joaquin Hernandez)

BAYAMO, CUBA, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Beyond pristine beaches and radiant sunshine almost the whole year round, Cuba harbors a historic treasure, which it now seeks to exploit as a tourist attraction.

Granma, a province located about 675 km east of Havana, has been the stage for important events in Cuban history. As a consequence, it enjoys multiple locations that may be of interest to tourists seeking a touch of culture.

"Tourism in Granma is mainly focused on history, culture and nature, since we combine historical and cultural value. That is our main potential," Magaly Tornes, a local tourism ministry official, told Xinhua.

For example, Bayamo, the provincial capital and the second town founded by Spanish settlers on the island in 1513, is considered the cradle of the nation, since it is where the current national anthem was composed and sung for the first time, Tornes said.

In that small town was born the idea for Cuban independence on October 10, 1868.

In the 1950s, Bayamo was involved in the Revolution led by Fidel Castro, who found safe refuge in the nearby Sierra Maestra Mountains.

Tourists excursions often take in the Sierra Maestra, especially the mountain of Turquino, Cuba's highest point at 1,974 meters.

"We have an integral development plan," said Tornes, adding that one project, named "Routes of the Revolution," was elaborating two tourism routes, dedicated respectively to Ernesto "Che" Guevara, who operated as a guerrilla leader in the province, and to national hero, Jose Marti, who fell in battle there in 1898.

Granma owns 46 percent of the country's heritage sites, but it can also fall back on the Cuban regular, sun and sand.

Another destination of choice is Las Coloradas, a point on the coast 100 km west of Bayamo, where Fidel Castro and his guerrillas landed in the yacht named Granma on December 2, 1956.

"Today, it is a provincial and national tourist attraction. Almost every day, foreigners visit the site, both to take in Cuban history and enjoy its natural beauty," said historian Alberto Debst.

The site contains a full-scale replica of the boat, with the original being on display in Havana. A path of 1.3 km also shows how the rebels, including Fidel, his brother and current president Raul Castro, and Guevara, reached the mangrove cover.

Last year, 4 million foreign visitors arrived in Cuba, a 14.5 percent rise over 2015. The Ministry of Tourism expects the figure to reach 4.2 million this year.

Knowing the tourist potential of the archipelago, the Cuban government has proposed an ambitious development program until 2030, which includes the construction of 224 hotels to expand capacity to 103,000 rooms.

These development plans are an incentive for places like Granma, which have a card to play in Cuba's drive to boost diverse kinds of tourism.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 07:15:03|Editor: Liangyu

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Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong speaks during the China-Hungary Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) education activities in Budapest, the capital of Hungary on June 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Attila Volgyi)

BUDAPEST, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

The building will house the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Center.

The Chinese official was here to attend the opening ceremony of the third health ministers' forum between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) scheduled for June 18 to 21 in Hungary.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of the Chinese nation, it does not only belong to China, but also to the world," she said at the ceremony.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced in May this year to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Hungary, she said, adding that the two governments proposed to deepen cooperation in the field of health, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

She said that this opened up vast space for Chinese medicine cooperation. "It is gratifying to see that Hungary takes the lead in legislating and enacting rules for practicing Chinese medicine in Europe, recognizing and accepting Chinese medicine for national service," Liu said.

"I hope that the two countries' universities will create together a high level platform of Chinese medicine education cooperation to train more Chinese medicine experts in need," she added.

She hoped that "the two countries' medical experts will work together in close collaboration, and take complementary advantages of Chinese and Western medicine, to explore a new model of Chinese and Western medicine to overcome disease."

"I hope that the Chinese medicine center will not only impart knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also show the traditional Chinese culture and philosophical wisdom, and promote the cooperation in Traditional Chinese Medicine between China and Hungary to become a bright 'business card' to deepen the health cooperation between the two countries and to promote cultural exchanges between them," she said.

State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities Bence Retvari also said at the ceremony "This step is not only an important cornerstone for the Hungarian education, but also for the Chinese-Hungarian medical cooperation," adding "Traditional Chinese Medicine is going to play an important role in education, in research and also in healing."

Liu Yandong listened to the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine educational cooperation between the Semmelweis University in Budapest and the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in Harbin in northeast China, and the preparations of the Central and Eastern European Traditional Chinese Medical Education and Training Center to be built. She also visited the Traditional Chinese Medicine classrooms and observed the students' clinical practice.

In 2010, the two universities signed a cooperation agreement for jointly starting a five-year TCM program in order to train Hungarian TCM professionals.

The program follows a "4+1" model, that is, students study the TCM program at the Faculty of Health Sciences, in the Semmelweis University for the first four years, and complete clinical practice at the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in the fifth year.

The first batch of Hungarian graduates have successfully completed their studies and obtained their diplomas in 2016. The two sides renewed their cooperation agreement in 2017.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 09:18:06|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

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CANBERRA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Australia's coalition government, led by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, has fallen to its 14th straight loss in News Corp's public opinion poll, trailing the Labor opposition 47 percent to 53 percent in the two-party preferred (after preferences) stakes on Monday.

It's the 14th-straight survey, called Newspoll, in which the Liberal National Party (LNP) coalition government has trailed the Labor opposition, and the third-straight survey in which they have trailed by the six point margin.

In the primary vote (before preferences), Labor edged ahead one point to lead the government 37 percent to the coalition's 36 percent, with the far-right One Nation securing 11 percent of the vote, the left-leaning Greens posting a 9 percent share and the independents taking the remaining 7 percent.

Speaking to Sky News on Monday, respected political commentator for The Australian newspaper David Crowe said the results were a wake-up call for the coalition, considering their popularity had not risen despite announcing a widely popular budget in May.

"We've got a situation where the government is on 36 percent primary vote, and it has been stuck there for five straight Newspolls. It's a very dangerous plateau that they've reached, or a slump that they can't seem to get out of regardless of policy," Crowe said.

"We've seen that the primary vote is at the same level as before the May federal budget, before the 'reset', before they got rid of all the 'zombie' spending cuts that people didn't like, before the bank levy. It hasn't made any difference."

The last time the coalition was on level pegging with Labor in the two-party preferred poll was Sept. 12, 2016, while the last time the Turnbull government led in the Newspoll was on July 2, 2016, when it led by half a percentage point.

Also on Monday, Labor MP Ed Husic slammed the reporting of the government's slump through his social media channels, posting to Twitter that the government's woes were being under-reported compared with the troubles of the previous Labor government in 2013.

"Listen up, kids: let me tell you about a time, long ago, when Newspoll results instantly got blazing front page coverage," Husic posted on Monday.

Former coalition Prime Minister Tony Abbott was ousted by Turnbull in 2015 after Abbott lost 30 Newspolls in a row.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 09:38:15|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

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TOKYO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Navy said Monday that all seven sailors missing following a collision between its guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald and a Philippine container vessel on Saturday have been confirmed dead.

The Navy said in a statement Sunday that rescuers had gained access to spaces on the ship that were damaged during the collision and retrieved the bodies of a number of missing sailors, although did not specify exactly how many.

This was due to the Navy wanting to identify the bodies and let the next of kin know of the deaths before making a formal announcement, it said.

In contrast, Japanese media on Sunday reported ahead of the announcement by the U.S. 7th Fleet that all 7 bodies of the missing sailors were found aboard the destroyer in areas that had become flooded after the collision.

Three U.S. sailors also sustained injuries in the collision, including Cmdr. Bryce Benson, the Fitzgerald's commanding officer, who is in a stable condition in hospital. Two other crew members were airlifted to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries following the collision, the Navy said.

According to the Japan Coast Guard, the collision occurred about 100 km southwest of Yokosuka, south of Tokyo, and was first reported by the Philippine container vessel at around 2:25 a.m. local time on Saturday.

The 8,315 ton U.S. guided-missile destroyer, which suffered considerable damage to its right side in the collision, is part of the U.S. 7th Fleet and has returned to the Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture, about 50 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.

The 29,060 ton Philippine ship, which was sailing towards Tokyo from Nagoya in central Japan with 1,080 containers, has since docked at a port in Tokyo with visible scrape marks from the collision on the left side of its bow.

The Aegis-equipped Fitzgerald, which suffered considerable damage to its right side in the collision, returned to the Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture, about 50 km southwest of Tokyo, with the assistance of a tug boat.

Investigations by the U.S. Navy and the Japan Coast Guard are underway following the fatal collision in the pre-dawn hours south of Tokyo Bay.

Following the collision, the United States and the Philippines have also been in discussions regarding the accident and how to proceed.

Under the bilateral status of forces agreement between the United States and Japan, the former has primary jurisdiction regarding incidents involving members of its forces.

Crew members of the Philippine ACX Crystal container vessel have been questioned on suspicion of possible endangerment of traffic caused by professional negligence.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 10:08:32|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

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TOKYO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Japan's trade deficit in May stood at 203.37 billion yen (1.8 billion U.S. dollars), marking the first shortfall in four months, the Finance Ministry said in a preliminary report on Monday.

According to the ministry, imports jumped 17.8 percent to 6.05 trillion yen in the recording period, while exports leapt 14.9 percent from a year earlier to 5.85 trillion yen.

The data showed that rising energy imports offset solid exports to Asia. Owing to the majority of its nuclear power plants still being offline in the wake of the 2011 Fukushima disaster, Japan is heavily reliant on energy imports.

Exports from Japan were also impacted in May due to the Golden Week string of national holidays.

The finance ministry said that exports to the United States were up 11.6 percent from a year earlier to 1.08 trillion yen and imports rose 7.4 percent to 671.30 billion yen, resulting in a trade surplus of 411.12 billion yen.

Japan ran a trade deficit with China, with exports soaring 23.9 percent to 1.12 trillion yen while imports gained 9.6 percent to 1.43 trillion yen, in the reporting period, the ministry said.

Exports to the European Union gained 19.8 percent to 692.37 billion yen and imports were up 12.5 percent to 732.91 billion yen, with Japan posting a trade deficit with the EU of 40.54 billion yen, the ministry's data showed.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 10:37:39|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

An artist works on a portrait of Buddhist during the 25th annual Pasadena Chalk Festival in Los Angeles, the United States, June 18, 2017. Hundreds artists used more than 25,000 sticks of pastel chalk to create life-size murals on the city pavement. (Xinhua/Zhao Hanrong)
Rescuers carry the bodies of plane crash victims at a village of Laung Lone, southern Tanintharyi region, Myanmar, June 8, 2017. (Xinhua/Defense Services Office)

YANGON, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Flight Data Recorder (Black Box) and CVR (Cockpit Voice Recorder) have been found in already retrieved plane's tail section Sunday evening, a release of the Office of the Commander-in-chief of the Defense Services said.

The authorities will continue probe into the reasons of plane crash based on the black box.

Naval ships, divers and trawlers were combing the seabed of the area, where the tail part of the crashed plane was found entangled with a fishing net of a local vessel under the sea off the country's southern coast on Thursday.

Currently, a total of 92 bodies have been recovered as of late Sunday.

With a load of 2.4 tons of cargo and 122 people aboard, including 108 military personnel and their family members and 14 crew members, the aircraft of the Myanmar Air Force lost contact with the ground shortly after taking off from Myeik on June 7.

The plane was believed to have crashed in the Andaman Sea off the southern Tanintharyi region on a flight to Yangon.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 13:40:14|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

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NEW DELHI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Flooding in India's northeastern state of Assam has affected around 69,000 people and displaced over 4000, official broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) said Monday.

The broadcaster quoting officials said flood waters affected five districts of the state and several tributaries of the Brahmaputra river were flowing above the danger mark.

"In Assam, nearly 69, 000 people are affected due to flood in five districts," AIR said.

The affected districts include Udalguri, Biswanath and Sonitpur Lakhimpur and Darrang.

Authorities have rushed teams of disaster response force to cary out rescue work and set up 10 relief camps at Udalguri and Sonitpur district where nearly 4,000 people have taken shelter.

"NDRF and SDRF teams have been deployed in Sonitpur district and they have evacuated nearly 100 flood hit people," the broadcaster said. "Two persons reportedly swept away in surging water."

Reports said at Paschim Balia village in Karimganj district, five members of a family including two women were critically injured when a landslide hit their house on Sunday.

According to officials, the flooding has inundated more than 1,600 hectares of agricultural land in the affected districts.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 13:55:21|Editor: Liangyu

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HONG KONG, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Twenty years is enough to provide compelling evidence for the success of the "one country, two systems" principle in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), a central government official based in Hong Kong told Xinhua in an interview.

In April, President Xi Jinping described the "one country, two systems" principle in the HKSAR as a "great success." Zhang Xiaoming, director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, said, "Anyone who respects the facts and who is without prejudice would endorse the evaluation."

July 1 marks the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong's return from British rule and the establishment of the HKSAR. Enacted in accordance with China's Constitution, the Basic Law of the HKSAR specifies the guidelines of "one country, two systems" and "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" with a high degree of autonomy.

According to Zhang, since 1997, the HKSAR has been successfully incorporated into the country's governing system.

"The central government's governance of the HKSAR is running smoothly. Sovereign rights have been manifested, and national security has been safeguarded," he said.

Over the past 20 years, Hong Kong has remained a center of international finance, shipping and trade, and has been recognized by many international agencies as the world's freest economy and most competitive region, Zhang said.

"If you see the accomplishments against a background of the Asian and global financial crises and the SARS outbreak, and in comparison with other developed economies, you will know the achievements have not been easy," said Zhang, who has worked in Hong Kong affairs in the central government since the mid-1980s.

Furthermore, the people of Hong Kong have maintained a high level of autonomy, with the SAR government building up experience and ability in handling affairs within the realm of self-governance and the Hong Kong people enjoying unprecedented democratic rights, according to Zhang.

He pointed out that the core values cherished by Hong Kong society, such as the rule of law, freedom, human rights, justice and integrity, have continued to be respected, and freedom of speech, media and assembly have only increased.

The past 20 years also witnessed closer contact between Hong Kong and the mainland and a clear trend of win-win cooperation, Zhang noted, adding that Hong Kong has been more active in external exchanges as well.

Zhang admitted that during the process of putting the "one country, two systems" principle into practice, encountering new situations, problems and challenges, and even some conflicts is inevitable.p "The issues and problems didn't come from nowhere. The fact that they were solved in accordance with the law proves that the 'one country, two systems' policy is vigorous, resilient and unshakable," Zhang said.

In the face of new situations in Hong Kong, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, with Comrade Xi Jinping as the core, has guided the practice of "one country, two systems" from a strategic and overall perspective and attained new breakthroughs, new progress and new achievements in handling Hong Kong affairs, he said.

Important expositions made by Xi and other senior leaders on Hong Kong affairs have enriched the theoretical meaning of the "one country, two systems" principle and will be important for carrying out the principle in the future, he said.

Looking ahead, Zhang believes Hong Kong will benefit greatly from the country's three major development initiatives: the Belt and Road Initiative, the internationalization of the renminbi, and the building of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area city cluster.

"On the express train of China's robust economic growth, the country has reserved a seat for Hong Kong," Zhang said, stressing that Hong Kong should dovetail its strengths with the country's needs to achieve greater development.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 14:25:35|Editor: Zhang Dongmiao

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MELBOURNE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- People deemed terror risks in Australia's Victoria state could be subject to strict curfews and GPS tracking, it was announced on Monday.

Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria, announced on Monday that an independent expert panel has been established to advise on how the state's anti-terrorism laws could be strengthened.

The panel, chaired by former Victoria Police Commissioner Ken Lay, was established after terrorist Yacqub Khayre killed one man and took a woman hostage in the southeast Melbourne suburb of Brighton in June.

Andrews said that the panel had been told that nothing was off-limits in the fight against terrorism, including a curfew and GPS tracking of suspects.

"I'm sure that there will be some people who will be perhaps offended by this, there'll be some people for whom this will not be very popular," Andrews told reporters.

"(But) if curbing the rights of a small number of people is what's required to keep the Victorian community safe, then I won't hesitate to do it."

The Victorian justice system has drawn criticism in June due to the decision by the parole board to let Khayre out of prison, where he was serving time for violent offences, in December 2016.

The parole board defended its decision, saying it believed that since the Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) was not investigating Khayre, he was not a terror threat.

Andrews said that there was a gap in the system whereby suspects who were not deemed an "imminent threat" were not being properly monitored.

"We have a post-detention framework that the states are delivering on behalf of the Commonwealth, that relates to those who have been convicted of a terrorist offence," he said.

"At the other end of the spectrum, we have current powers to detain or to monitor people who present a risk, who have not yet committed a criminal offence, but the threat needs to be imminent.

"Not everyone who poses a risk is necessary posing an imminent risk."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:01:08|Editor: ying

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BANGKOK, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Five government troops were killed and four others seriously injured in a blast in southern Thailand on Monday, police said.

The bomb, believed to have been planted by an unknown group of local insurgents, blew up and killed five non-commissioned soldiers and wounded four others on a road in Thung Yang Daeng district of Pattani province, about 1,055 km south of Bangkok.

Thai media Matichon said the number and identity of the attackers remain unknown.

Pattani, along with Yala and Narathiwat, is the three southernmost provinces of Thailand that are haunted by explosions and attacks.

The soldiers, attached to Task Force 25, were on their way to a mission when they were hit by the blast.

The suspected perpetrators are still at large, the police said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:16:19|Editor: ying

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BAMAKO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and two others injured in a terrorist attack at a Mali tourist resort on Sunday, government security officials said.

The attack occurred on Sunday afternoon when unidentified militants launched attack at the Kangaba Le Campement resort on the suburb of capital Bamako.

A Franco-Gabonese woman was among the two killed while the identity of the other victim was still unknown. A civilian and a security officer were wounded during the attack.

The site was sealed off by Mali security forces supported by French troops who had arrived at the scene in response to the attack.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
File photo shows a member of security forces stands guard at a car bomb attack site in Gao, Mali, on Jan. 18, 2017.(Xinhua/Zhao Ziquan)

BAMAKO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and two others injured in a terrorist attack at a Mali tourist resort on Sunday, government security officials said.

The attack occurred on Sunday afternoon when unidentified militants launched attack at the Kangaba Le Campement resort on the suburb of capital Bamako.

A Franco-Gabonese woman was among the two killed while the identity of the other victim was still unknown. A civilian and a security officer were wounded during the attack.

The site was sealed off by Mali security forces supported by French troops who had arrived at the scene in response to the attack.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:26:32|Editor: ying

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SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Monday vowed to nullify all plans to build new nuclear power plants for environmentally-friendly energy sources.

Moon made the announcement at a ceremony in the country's southeast coast to decommission the Kori-1 nuclear reactor, the country's first and most aged nuclear power plant, according to the presidential Blue House.

The president said all plans to build new nuclear reactors, for which preparations were already being made, will be scrapped and that lifespan of existing reactors will not be extended.

He pledged to abandon the nuclear-centric electric power policy and open a post-nuclear era.

South Korea currently runs 25 nuclear power plants, which generate about 30 percent of the country's power supply. Many of the reactors are located near residential areas along the country's southeast coast.

The 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown in Japan raised concerns here about the safety of South Korea's aged nuclear power plants. A series of earthquakes, which happened last year, boosted such concerns in South Korea.

Moon said another aged nuclear reactor, whose lifespan was extended by 10 years to 2022, would be dismantled as soon as possible while considering the situations of power supply.

Among the 25 nuclear reactors being operated in South Korea, many of them will be subject to review over whether to extend their lifespans during the five-year presidency of Moon that ends in 2022. Moon took office on May 10.

Moon said the decommissioning of the Kori-1 reactor was the starting point to go toward a nuclear-free, safe South Korea, vowing to foster renewable energy sources such as solar and wind powers and LNG power plants.

He also pledged to decommission 10 aged coal power plants within his five-year term and to stop building new coal power plants.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:31:34|Editor: ying

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WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the U.S. government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the U.S. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:44:04|Editor: ying





Visitors look at cars during the 7th Annual Yorkville Exotic Car Show in Toronto, Canada, June 18, 2017. The annual event showcasing over 120 classic and exotic cars attracted tens of thousands of visitors on the occasion of Father's Day on Sunday. (Xinhua/Zou Zheng)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 15:56:48|Editor: ying

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MOSCOW, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Weapons supplier Rosoboronexport under Russia's state-controlled conglomerate Rostec provided the world market with more than 800 Mi-17 helicopters between 2006 and 2016, the Rosoboronexport press service reported Monday.

Rosoboronexport chief Alexander Mikheev said the company has recently signed a contract with the Bangladeshi air forces on the delivery of five Mi-171Sh combat-transport helicopters in 2018.

"Bangladesh is actively modernizing its national aircraft fleet. We are pleased that Bangladesh has chosen the high-quality Russian products," Mikheev said.

Between 2013 and 2016, Rosoboronexport delivered Mi-17 helicopters, Yak-130 advanced trainer aircraft and armored vehicles to Bangladesh.

Russia's Mi-8/17 family of helicopters are currently products of the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant or the Kazan Helicopter Plant.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 16:01:51|Editor: ying

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VLADIVOSTOK, Russia, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The intercepted Russian Katalexa yacht has returned to the Far East city of Vladivostok on Sunday, the local Maritime Rescue Coordination Center said on Monday.

On June 15, the yacht with three crew members on board was intercepted by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the western Sea of Japan.

A similar incident occurred last year when the DPRK seized a Russian yacht en route from South Korea to Vladivostok. The DPRK later released the yacht.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 16:01:53|Editor: Mengjie

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by Xinhua writers Yang Shilong, Zhang Zhihuan

NEW YORK, June 18 (Xinhua) -- In 1601, an Italian missionary named Matteo Ricci (1552-1610) entered the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Chinese imperial palace, opening a path for East-West cultural exchange that many people set foot on.

Inspired by Matteo Ricci's legend, in 1986, Dionisio Cimarelli, aged 21 then, boarded a Trans-Siberian train to Beijing for the first time.

FASCINATED WITH CHINA

"China is one of my very old passion. Since I was a student, I was very interested in Chinese culture, Chinese art, Chinese people....so in 1986 I stopped my study in the academy and I decided to move to China for a big trip," said Cimarelli, who now teaches sculpture at the New York Academy of Arts.

"Matteo Ricci probably went to China to teach, but I went there primarily to understand, which was also my way to try to understand and exchange, and explain to the Chinese my culture, my education, and Chinese can teach me their own culture," he told Xinhua.

China at that time was not yet fully open to tourism and streets of its cities were full of bikes, no busy traffic at all, he recalled.

"...in 1986, I found China a poor country, it was coming out from a very difficult time in terms of economy and culture. But in 1986 I was also able to see the beginning of the change after the opening-up," he said, referring to China's adoption of the policy of reform and opening to the outside world in 1978.

Cimarelli returned to find a very different China in 2004 and he stayed nine years since in the booming country.

"I feel very lucky and I'm very very proud that I was able to see this change which would not only be part of China, but also part of the world change," he said.

"I saw huge change. From 1986 to 2004, China already changed a lot," he said.

"But during my nine years in China from 2004 to 2013, there was huge, enormous, amazing change. I was able to see every week the difference in Shanghai and Beijing, which I was going to very often. Continuously I saw the change," he said.

"I would say that in 2007 and 2008, there were the biggest changes in Beijing before the Olympic Games, I would say the change was 180 degree completely," he said.

"I could also see the change of people, the change of the attitude of the Chinese. They became more wealthy, they started to travel, they started to know. For the young people, they were able to do their Ph.D. in Europe and the U.S.A. So there are the enormous changes, you almost can't recognize the country, I would say," he said.

CHOOSING PORCELAIN AS STEP CLOSER TO CHINESE CULTURE

"China for me was an amazing experience, incredible. That's why I was able to stay for such a long time. It is because I've always been interested and curious and have always been learning the history and the mentality of the Chinese people, to understand them," said Cimarelli.

In Beijing, Cimarelli met Situ Jie, a renowned sculptor at the Central Academy of Arts. He was then introduced to other professors and students at the academy. In 2006, he moved to Shanghai to work for a cultural institute.

Soon his expertise and experience in China caught the attention of the Italian government which commissioned him to do a sculpture of Matteo Ricci for the Italy Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010.

"Matteo Ricci was coming very close to my hometown. What he did was a bridge between the Western culture and the Chinese culture," Cimarelli said.

"So when they offered me this opportunity, I was really excited, I said, of course I would do it. I tried to make it something unique, something different which could represent Italy and represent China, Chinese culture as a bridge," he said.

Cimarelli finally created a 1.5-meter-tall bronze sculpture of Matteo Ricci adorned with gilded calligraphy. The calligraphy in fact is Cimarelli's name written in Chinese characters. It took him six weeks to model and another twelve weeks to finish the sculpture which was collected by the Shanghai Italian Center in 2013 following the expo.

Life in China also transformed Cimarelli's pursuit of art, making figurative sculptures in Chinese porcelain instead of Italian ceramics.

"When I made my series of porcelain, that was probably the most important learning, because I never did any porcelain before. I was coming from a culture of ceramic, Italian ceramics, which looks similar but is completely different," he said.

"So porcelain for me is an understanding of the culture of China, an understanding of a way of living, an understanding of a way of working. So for me to choose porcelain is a step forward closer to the Chinese culture," he said.

EXPECTATION OF EUROPE-ASIA HIGH-SPEED RAILWAY

Italy is a nation in the West with cultural ties closest to China, Cimarelli said, it is no surprise that in China the two most famous historical figures from the West are Italian -- Marco Polo (1254-1324) and Matteo Ricci.

He is confident that Italy, once an important terminal of the ancient Silk Road, would play a major role in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China in 2013.

The initiative consists of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road, with an aim to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along and beyond the ancient Silk Road trade routes.

Apart from the economics, Cimarelli said, the Belt and Road Initiative, just as the ancient Silk Road, serves for a deeper cause too, which is the exchange and understanding of cultures.

"I think primarily it's business. That was the same in the Middle Age when Marco Polo was travelling, that's the main purpose. But behind that, for me the culture is very important," he said.

"It would be like a way, a road along which you can do business with countries, but there is also cultural exchange which we need today," he noted.

"I think today we need more bridges than walls, we need more understanding than trying to avoid each other," he said.

Cimarelli also expressed his hope that Europe and Asia would be soon connected by the high-speed rail that is commonly seen all over China.

"They did in China several huge projects with the train, like the one from Beijing to Lhasa (in west China's Tibet region). I really hope they can do that (between Europe and China) because that would be an amazing and incredible trip, and I would really enjoy it. I hope I will not be too old to wait for that," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 16:22:09|Editor: ying

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RIYADH, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia announced on Monday it has seized a boat, loaded with weapons, heading towards Saudi oil field of Marjan.

The incident occurred on Friday evening, when two other boats managed to escape during the interception by Saudi naval forces, Saudi Press Agency quoted a Saudi official as saying.

The official confirmed the three small boats, bearing red and white flags, entered the Saudi territorial waters in the Gulf. They headed towards the platform of the oil field.

The official said Saudi Arabia is determined to combat and eradicate terrorism and its sources, as a part of "the country's permanent objective to protect its national security against any external aggression."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 16:32:18|Editor: Mengjie

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PANAMA CITY, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Panama's Deputy Foreign Minister Luis Miguel Hincapie has urged the setting of a diplomatic and political agenda as a next step for the country to boost its fledgling relationship with China, after the two countries established diplomatic relations on June 12.

In a recent interview with Xinhua, Hincapie said the setting of the agenda should include establishment of embassies in each other's capital city, appointment of ambassadors, and beginning to discuss topics such as trade, maritime affairs, tourism, education and cultural exchange.

According to the minister, these steps are particularly urgent to ratify the "correct, sovereign and positive step" taken by Panama, referring to Panama's decision to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China.

"It was a sovereign decision, taken strategically, which suits us. The benefits will be seen later, when all the agreements and the bilateral relationship are confirmed and established," Hincapie added.

While Panama has not yet sent an ambassador to the People's Republic of China, he guaranteed that this would be done before the end of this year. Hincapie said that Panama would seek to move as quickly as possible in this regard, given China's importance and potential as the second-largest user of the Panama Canal.

The deputy foreign minister said that the possibilities of this new cooperation were "incalculable," especially since Panama could become China's gateway to Latin America, with Chinese companies using it as a logistical platform for this region.

Hincapie pointed out several advantages his country enjoys, including its geographical position and its connectivity with other countries by convenient means of transportation such as airlines, ports and railways.

He recognized that the Panama Canal would be a focal point of China-Panama relations, especially with Chinese firms setting up operations there in the near future.

The first ship to go through the expanded Panama Canal on June 26, 2016 was a Chinese ship named "Cosco Shipping Panama".

"There is already an interest in coming to Panama, and with Chinese ships crossing through Panama, traffic and trade are growing. Beyond having commercial ties with China, the diplomatic relations and formal links open more doors than before," pointed out Hincapie.

Looking further ahead, the deputy minister believes it will have a knock-on effect with China seeing Panama as a tourism destination.

He also highlighted the importance that China has had in Panama's history, beginning with the arrival of Chinese immigrants 163 years ago, who later contributed to Panama's strong economy.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 16:37:19|Editor: Liangyu

WUXI, June 20, 2016 (Xinhua) -- Photo taken on June 20, 2016 shows Sunway TaihuLight, a new Chinese supercomputer, in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Li Xiang) (File photo)

WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

CHINA'S HOMEGROWN SUPERCOMPUTERS

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the U.S. government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

SWISS SYSTEM "REALLY A SURPRISE"

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the U.S. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.

"This is the second time in the 24-year history of the TOP500 list that the United States has failed to secure any of the top three positions," the TOP500 organizers said in a statement.

The only other time this occurred was in November 1996, when three Japanese systems captured the top three spots.

"Nevertheless, the U.S. still claims five of the top 10 supercomputers, which is more than any other nation," they said.

Fu called the upgraded Swiss system "really a surprise," saying that "it reflects the increased investment in large-scale supercomputers in Europe."

AMERICA'S STRONG STRENGTH

"Although the U.S. dropped out of the top three, it still has strong strength in high performance computing," Fu told Xinhua. "If everything goes well, we could see two U.S. systems with a performance of 200 to 300 petaflops in the next rankings at the end of the year."

Just days before the TOP500 announcement, the U.S. Department of Energy said it has awarded AMD, Cray, HP Enterprise, IBM, Intel and NVIDIA a total of 258 million U.S. dollars in funding to accelerate the development of next-generation supercomputers.

"Continued U.S. leadership in high performance computing is essential to our security, prosperity, and economic competitiveness as a nation," U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said in a recent statement.

The immediate goal of the United States is to develop at least one exascale-capable system by 2021, which will be at least 10 times faster than China's Sunway TaihuLight.

"Global competition for this technological dominance is fierce," the U.S. Department of Energy asserted. "However, the U.S. retains global leadership in the actual application of high performance computing to national security, industry, and science."

In addition, the latest list showed that the United States leads the pack in the total number of TOP500 systems, with 169, while China is a close second with 160. Both countries lost share compared to six months ago, when they each claimed 171 systems.

Besides the United States and China, the most well-represented countries on the list are Japan, with 33 supercomputers, Germany, with 28, France, with 18, and Britain, with 17.

Overall, aggregate performance on the TOP500 rose to 749 petaflops, a 32 percent jump from a year ago.

Such an increase, though, is well below the list's historical growth rate of about 185 percent per year, said the organizers.

"The slower growth in list performance is a trend that began in 2013, and has shown no signs of reversal," they said.

When it comes to companies making these systems, the U.S.-based Hewlett-Packard Enterprise claims the number one spot with 143 supercomputers. China's Lenovo is the second most popular vendor, with 88 systems, and Cray is in third place, with 57.

There are three other Chinese companies in the vendor list: Sugon (No. 4 with 44 systems), Inspur (No. 6 with 20 systems) and Huawei (No. 7 with 19 systems).

The Top500 list is considered one of the most authoritative rankings of the world's supercomputers. It is compiled on the basis of the machines' performance on the Linpack benchmark by experts from the United States and Germany.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 17:12:41|Editor: ZD

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COLOMBO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Several international airlines including Emirates have expressed interest in partnering with Sri Lankan Airlines for its development under the Private Public Partnership model, an official here said on Monday.

State Finance Minister Eran Wickramaratne told reporters here that informal talks had taken place with those having interest in investing in Sri Lanka's national career.

Sri Lankan Airlines is currently operated at a loss. The government has laid down plans to restructure it. It found a foreign investor initially. Yet, the deal was not successful.

"We are in contact with Emirates at the moment. Likewise, we will hold talks with a few other airlines interested in investing here. We will not go for outright privatization of our airline. It will be only equity sharing under the Private Public Partnership model," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 17:47:56|Editor: ZD

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SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's new foreign minister said Monday that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) should be denuclearized by both sanctions and dialogue while any of its provocations should be dealth with sternly.

Kang Kyung-wha, the country's first female foreign minister, made the comments in her inaugural address at the foreign ministry's headquarters in Seoul.

With consciousness, Kang said, South Korea should actively address the DPRK nuclear and missile issues that have become increasingly urgent and advancing as they are posing threats on security of South Koreans.

In the course of doing that, South Korea should develop the South Korea-U.S. alliance more firmly, she said.

At the same time, Kang stressed that South Korea should seek to wisely resolve current issues with China to develop the bilateral relations.

As regards to ties with Japan, Kang said her country should seek a future-oriented, mature cooperative partnership while encouraging its neighbor to squarely face the history.

The Korean Peninsula was liberated in 1945 from the 36-year colonization of the imperial Japan. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had yet to apologize and compensate for the past wartime crimes against humanity, including the sexual slavery of Korean women for Japanese military brothels during World War II.

Kang vowed to increase communications with people in establishing diplomatic policies and to make the policies known to people more exactly.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 17:52:59|Editor: ZD

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AMMAN, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Jordan on Monday condemned a terrorist attack that targeted worshippers as they were leaving a mosque in London.

Jordan's Minister of State for Media Affairs Mohammad Momani said the terrorist crime seeks to spread hatred among the followers of various religions in the world, the state-run Petra news agency reported.

He stressed on Jordan's rejection of all forms of terrorism that seeks to spread chaos.

He called for increased international efforts to uproot terrorism and radicalism. The minister also voiced solidarity with the UK.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said on Monday that she would chair an emergency meeting later in the day after police called the incident in north London "a potential terrorist attack."

A van rammed into a crowd of worshippers early Monday morning near a mosque in north London, killing one and injuring 10 others.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 18:08:16|Editor: ZD

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SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Moon Jae-in's approval rating slightly fell on controversy over a cabinet member nominee, a survey showed Monday.

According to a Realmeter poll, Moon gained 75.6 percent of support last week, down 3.3 percentage points from a week earlier.

The result was based on a survey of 2,534 voters conducted from Monday to Friday last week. It has 1.9 percentage points in margin of error with a 95 percent confidence level.

The first weekly approval rating for Moon was 78.1 percent. Moon took office on May 10.

Lower support scores came amid controversy over Justice Minister nominee Ahn Kyong-whan who withdrew himself from the nomination for reports that he forged a marriage registration about four decades ago.

Opposition parties denounced President Moon for his nominations of foreign minister and anti-trust watchdog chief.

Support for the ruling Democratic Party also slightly dipped to 53.6 percent last week. It was down 0.6 percentage points from the previous week.

It was followed by the main opposition Liberty Korea Party with 14.7 percent and the centrist People's Party with 6.8 percent.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 18:28:30|Editor: Mengjie

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BRICS ministers of foreign affairs pose for a group photo during their meeting in Beijing, capital of China, June 19, 2017. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Monday that the BRICS cooperation has shown strong vitality during the past ten years.

Wang made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Brazilian Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes and India's Minister of State for External Affairs Vijay Kumar Singh.

He said BRICS cooperation has greater importance, as the five countries' share in global economy has increased from 12 percent to 23 percent in the past decade while they have contributed more than half of global growth.

Trade and investment among the five countries have increased sharply, and their cooperation expanded from economy to political fields and people-to-people exchanges, Wang said.

The BRICS countries have strengthened coordination within the UN and G20 framework to safeguard the interests of developing countries, and contributed wisdom to cope with global challenges, he said.

This year marks the beginning of the second decade of BRICS cooperation, and China holds the BRICS rotating presidency, Wang said, adding that the country stands ready to work with all sides to contribute to worldwide stability and prosperity, as well as the healthy development of multilateralism.

A media note published at the meeting said that the ministers commended the fruitful cooperation forged in the past and look forward to continued and positive cooperation among BRICS countries.

They appreciated the work by China as it holds BRICS chairmanship for 2017, and reiterated their commitment to the success of the Ninth BRICS Summit under the theme of "BRICS: Stronger Partnership for a Brighter Future," it said.

The ministers recommitted their strong support to the central role of United Nations in international affairs, and committed to strengthening the coordination and cooperation among BRICS in the areas of mutual and common interest within the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, including through regular meetings among their permanent representatives in New York, Geneva and Vienna, and further enhancing the voice of BRICS in international fora.

On the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the ministers underscored the importance of its full implementation within the framework of revitalized global partnership for sustainable development.

The ministers also welcomed the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change on 4 November 2016 and urged all countries to implement the Paris Agreement under the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change including the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

On terrorism, they deplored the continued terrorist attacks, including those in some BRICS countries, and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever.

The ministers highly valued the Second BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group Meeting held in Beijing on 18 May and called for an expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN General Assembly.

On international and regional issues, they supported political and diplomatic solutions for conflicts, such as those in Libya and on the Korean Peninsula, and promoted preventive diplomacy in a consensus-based manner.

The ministers looked forward to their meeting on the margins of the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and welcomed South Africa's offer to host the next stand-alone meeting in 2018.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 19:18:55|Editor: ying

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by Larry Neild

LONDON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- It's what the authorities in the British capital have feared, a revenge attack in response to the two recent terror attacks.

It was a barmy summer night in London, a city famed for its acceptance of people from all corners of the world, whatever their religions or beliefs, when terror struck early Monday. A large crowd, happily chatting away, were dispersing after enjoying food that marked the end of their fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Minutes later, there was chaos as a van ploughed into them, killing one and injuring ten others. All of the victims were Muslims. Witnesses described the attacker as a white man with black hair.

The driver, according to witnesses, deliberately was driving the large van into a crowd of worshippers leaving a mosque, screaming "I want to kill all Muslims".

The recent attacks on Westminster Bridge and London Bridge saw Muslim extremists using the same tactic, vehicles as a weapon of death.

Those attacks have seen an increase in reported hate crimes in London, according to the Metropolitan Police, but nothing as serious as Monday's terror attack.

What happened is in sharp contrast to the aftermath of last week's tragic fire at Grenfell Tower, which saw Londoners, of all faiths and none, of all skin colors, coming together in a massive response of togetherness and support.

The Muslim mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, was one of the first Monday to condemn the attack outside the Finsbury Park Mosque. He urged Londoners remain calm and vigilant.

"We don't yet know the full details, but this was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners... While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect." Khan wrote on his social media site.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick spoke of London waking up to the news of another appalling attack on the city.

"My thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and with all those who were injured," she said.

The police chief added: "London is a city of many faiths and many nationalities. An attack on one community is an attack on all of us. Terrorists will not succeed in their attempts to divide us and make us live in fear."

She said extra officers are on duty in the area to help reassure the local community. "Communities will see additional officers patrolling across the city and at Muslim places of worship. We are working as hard as we can to protect all our communities, and we will not be defeated."

The Guardian newspaper commented Monday: "Among Britain's Muslim communities, there have been fears that they are targeted for Islamophobic hate crimes and that the authorities do not take such incidents seriously enough."

The Muslim Association of Britain condemned what it described as an evil terror attack, and called on police to increase security around mosques.

The association said in a statement: "We call on politicians to treat this major incident no less than a terrorist attack. We call on the government to do more to tackle this hateful evil ideology which has spread over these past years and resulted in an increase of islamophobic attacks and division of our society, as well as spreading of hate."

Omer El-Hamdoon, the association's president, called on all Muslims to be extra vigilant following "these hateful Islamophobic attacks, and to be cautious".

The attack was also condemned by the Sikh Federation in Britain and the European Jewish Congregation.

"The incidents in the last three months suggest there needs to be an honest dialogue and a fundamental shift in the way government tackles all forms of hate and terror. Hate and terror must be stamped out by directly confronting all those who promote an ideology and philosophy based on hate and terror," said Bhai Amrik Singh, chair of the Sikh Federation.

Moshe Kantor, president of the European Jewish Congress, condemned this attack which was seen as " attempt to escalate tensions in the UK".

"An attack on one religion is an attack on all religions and all people and faiths must stand together against terror," said Kantor.

Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of Finsbury Park mosque, said the shocking new terrorist attack was no different to Manchester, Westminster or London Bridge.

"Innocent people have lost their lives while just going about their business. Innocent people are being killed in cold blood," he said.

"The person who did this wants to spread hatred and fear. We will not let them succeed. We will all come together to support the people affected," he added.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 19:29:01|Editor: ZD

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Tang Jiezhong, a famous Chinese crosstalk artist, died of illness at the age of 84 in Beijing Sunday evening, according to China Broadcast Performing Art Troupe (CBPAT).

Tang, born in 1932, was among the first group of crosstalk performers of the People's Republic of China.

Crosstalk is a traditional Chinese comedic performance involving one or two actors bantering on a fixed topic that relies heavily on slang, puns, and imitation.

Tang started learning crosstalk at an early age when he studied in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province. He joined the military art troupe in 1949 and was transferred to the CBPAT in 1964.

He is well-known for his performances "Ode to Friendship" partnered with late crosstalk master Ma Ji, and "Father and Son" with performer Hao Aimin.

Among his more famous shows was "Fantasies at the Mouth of a Tiger," which poked fun at social ills such as discrimination of people of short stature and obsession with gaining fame.

Feng Gong, head of the CBPAT, said Tang's works reflected the joys and sorrows of ordinary people in the era of China's reform and construction. Building on the traditional art of crosstalk, his performances took on a sense of elegance and novelty.

Jiang Ping, secretary of Party committee of the CBPAT, said Tang's performances were sincere and natural, and he was good at tailoring his style to the characteristics of different partners.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 19:39:11|Editor: ying

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BRUSSELS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) reaffirmed Monday its support for Paris agreement on climate change when its Foreign Affairs Council convened in Luxembourg.

The Council said in a statement that the Paris Agreement is fit for purpose and cannot be renegotiated.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on June 1 that he has decided to pull the United States out of the Paris Agreement, a landmark global pact to fight climate change.

The Council said it deeply regretted the unilateral decision by the United States administration to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, while it welcomed the statements of commitment to the Agreement from other countries.

The Council said the EU will lead in the global fight against climate change through its climate policies and through continued support to those who are particularly vulnerable.

Besides, the EU is strengthening its existing global partnerships and will continue to seek new alliances, from the world's largest economies to the most vulnerable island states, according to the statement.

The Paris Agreement, agreed on by almost every country in the world in 2015, aims to tackle climate change by cutting greenhouse gas emissions and sets a global target of keeping the rise in the average temperature no higher than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:04:28|Editor: ying

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MOGADISHU, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The UN senior envoy in Somalia on Monday decried increased cases of sexual violence particularly in some makeshift settlements for internally displaced person (IDP) in Somalia.

In a statement issued to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia Michael Keating paid tribute to the victims and survivors of sexual violence in the country.

"Conflict-related sexual violence incidents constitute grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, and it is deplorable that these crimes continue to be widespread in parts of Somalia," Keating said in a statement.

According to the UN, sexual violence in Somalia disproportionately affects IDPs and individuals belonging to minority clans who have little or no access to justice systems and can not rely on their own marginalized clans for protection.

Keating said women and girls need protection, adding that effective measures must be implemented to end the impunity of the perpetrators of such crimes by holding them accountable under Somali laws.

According to information received by the UN, 7,324 new gender-based violence incidents were reported in Somalia last year.

Nearly all of the survivors were female, and 74 percent of them were living in IDP camps when they were attacked.

The UN said the problem has been exacerbated by the sharp increase in the number of IDPs in Somalia who have recently moved into urban areas in response to the country's ongoing drought crisis.

An estimated 739,000 people have abandoned their rural homes in search of food and water since November 2016, and the incidence of sexual violence is especially high in some makeshift IDP settlements, said the UN.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:14:34|Editor: ying

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RIGA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Large plumes of smoke were billowing over Latvia's seaside resort city Jurmala on Monday morning after a fire, which rescue services described as especially dangerous, started at an illegal dumpsite on Sunday evening, local media reported.

The blaze started after some 23,000 tons of plastic garbage caught fire at the dumpsite operated by Prima M company in the area of Sloka.

It took more than 12 hours for firefighters to bring the fire under control, which they managed to do by around 5 a.m. on Monday.

The flames had spread to a 1.2 hectares large area, which, apart from the heaps of plastic garbage, also included an hangar, said State Fire and Rescue Service.

Involved in the rescue works were roughly 50 firemen from the State Fire and Rescue Service, as well as two firefighting trains of Latvia's national rail company Latvijas Dzelzcels. The Latvian armed forces also dispatched a helicopter to help deal with the fire.

Rail traffic was temporarily suspended on the Riga-Tumums line between Sloka and Kemeri.

The Latvian law enforcement authorities started a criminal probe into the fire, LETA news agency reported. Representatives of Prima M claimed arson behind the fire.

Representatives of the State Environmental Service said that Prima M had been operating the dumpsite without the necessary license. Earlier, the service had received complaints from local residents about noxious odor coming from the dumpsite, as well as insect and rat infestation.

The State Environmental Service's representatives said that the dumpsite fire in Sloka had deteriorated air quality in Jurmala and Riga, but residents had no reason to worry about their health, as winds continued to dissipate the pollution on Monday.

Meanwhile, work is under way to assess the environmental damage caused by the fire, it said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:19:41|Editor: Mengjie

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday sent a condolence message to his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa over the severe forest fires in Portugal.

In his message, Xi said that he was shocked to learn that the fires in Portugal have caused heavy casualties and property damage. He extended heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to the victims and their families on behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and himself.

Xi said he believes that the Portuguese people will surely defeat the disaster and rebuild their homeland under the leadership of the Portuguese president and government.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:29:48|Editor: ying

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HANOI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) issued a statement Monday in Vietnam's northern Ha Long city, pledging to promote sustainable tourism for an inclusive and interconnected Asia-Pacific.

The pledge was made at the just concluded High-level Policy Dialogue on Sustainable Tourism of the members of APEC.

In the statement, members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) strongly support the principles and actions to promote sustainable tourism, include acknowledging that sustainable tourism development is a continuous process which requires constant impact monitoring, introduction of preventive or corrective measures, fostering regional and domestic tourism policies that support the sustainable development goals, and encouraging viable, long-term economic contributions of travel and tourism in providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders.

Last year, travel and tourism directly contributed 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars to APECs gross domestic product and made up 6.1 percent of the regions exports.

Moreover, every 10-percent increase in tourist arrivals in APEC economies is associated with a 1.2-percent rise in exports and a 0.8-percent hike in imports in the destination economy.

At the dialogue, Vietnam announced visa waiver programs for visitors from nine APEC economies bilaterally, and from three others unilaterally.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:29:50|Editor: Zhou Xin

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SHANGHAI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- BRICS will continue to be a growth engine of the world economy despite difficulties and challenges, Chinese Finance Minister Xiao Jie said Monday.

"We firmly believe the economic condition of BRICS will be better under our joint effort," said Xiao in an interview on the sidelines of the BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting.

Slower-than-expected global economic recovery, policy uncertainties in developed countries, de-globalization and world protectionism composed a complex economic environment for BRICS, Xiao said.

BRICS is experiencing a shift in gears after years of robust economic development and needs to develop new economic growth points via in-depth structural adjustment, he said.

BRICS should create new economic growth models, promote structural reform and seek new growth momentum, while strengthening policy coordination and enhance cooperation, Xiao said.

Xiao highlighted the fruitful results of the meeting, saying that BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors agreed to enhance macro-economic policy coordination, combat protectionism and deepen cooperation under the financial and monetary channels of the G20.

All sides agreed to make full use of the platform of the New Development Bank, promote international tax cooperation and set up cooperation on public-private partnerships, Xiao added.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:34:53|Editor: Zhou Xin

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China's top disciplinary watchdog has named and shamed a number of junior officials in seven corruption cases that directly undermined the public interest.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) said the cases involved extortion of state subsidies, embezzlement of poverty relief funds, misappropriation of compensation for land requisitions, and abuses of power.

In one case, five village committee employees in Beijing's Huairou District, embezzled a total of 34.84 million yuan (5.11 million U.S.dollars) between 2010 and 2014 from compensation for land acquisition.

The violators received punishments ranging from warnings, demotion, and expulsion from the CPC, to removal from public office. Cases involving suspected criminal offenses have been transferred to judicial organs.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:39:57|Editor: Zhou Xin

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MACAO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chief Executive of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On on Monday expressed his deep sadness and condolence over the many lives claimed by wildfires in central Portugal.

In a letter to Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Chui said "I am shocked by the many lives claimed by the devastating fires that hit the Pedrogao Grande region of Portugal."

He also expressed his solidarity with those who continue to fight against this terrible fire.

"I believe that under your leadership, Mr. President, the Portuguese people will be able to face this particularly difficult moment and overcome this dramatic situation."

Forest fires in central Portugal sent flames sweeping over roads, killing at least 62 people. Many of them were trapped in their cars as they tried to flee.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:39:59|Editor: Liangyu

British Prime Minister Theresa May gives a statement outside 10 Downing Street following the Finsbury Park mosque attack in London, Britain on June 19, 2017. At least one was killed and 10 others were injured when a van was driven into worshippers early morning on Monday near a north London mosque in what police have called a "major incident." (Xinhua)

LONDON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Theresa May Monday condemned the latest terror attack targeting worshippers who were leaving a mosque in London, describing it as sickening as recent ones to hit Britain.

A 48-year-old white man drove a hired van into a group of Muslim worshippers early Monday morning, killing one and injuring 10 others, some seriously.

It was the third attack in London since March and the second using a vehicle as a deadly weapon.

May chaired a meeting in London of the national emergency committee, known as Cobra, to discuss the latest incident. Later she said the terror attack was every bit as sickening as recent ones to hit Britain.

May said the driver of the van had acted alone and the Metropolitan Police declared the attack as a terrorist incident within eight minutes.

May said: "Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed. There has been far too much tolerance of extremism over many years."

"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country," she said.

"There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years and that means extremism of any kind including Islamophobia," the prime minister added.

Eyewitness said the attacker deliberately was driving the large van into a crowd of worshippers leaving a mosque.

The recent attacks on Westminster Bridge and London Bridge saw Muslim extremists using the same tactic, vehicles as a weapon of death.

The 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is being questioned by detectives.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:45:02|Editor: ying

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HELSINKI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The breakaway Members of Parliament from the Finns Party on Monday announced their new name to be "the Blue Future" in Finnish and Swedish, but adopted "Blue Reform" as their official English name.

Blue as a colour is connected with patriotic attitudes in Finland. The country's flag depicts a blue cross on a white background. But it was not clear why the message of the name in English underlines reform while the name in domestic languages underlines the future.

Last week, the populist Finns Party parliamentary group broke up as at least 20 MPs seceded. They included all the party's ministers in the government led by the centrist prime minister Juha Sipila.

At this stage, 20 MPs have formed a registered association. It will become a political party following the collection of the required 5,000 signatures in support of being eligible to be registered as a political party.

The group told media on Monday they want to reform Finland and in the process respect the "human dignity of everyone". It also underlined the independence of states as actors on the international scene.

The series of events began earlier this month, when right wing radical Jussi Halla-aho was elected as the chairman of the Finns Party.

Last week, the two leading parties of the ruling coalition, the Center Party and the conservative National Coalition Party, concluded they could not work together with the Finns Party as the party led by Halla-aho would change its ideology.

Prime minister Sipila was on his way to the presidential summer residence to submit a formal resignation when he cancelled the plan at the last minute following the break-up of the previous True Finns group.

The secessionists, together with the centrists and conservatives, remain in the ruling coalition, while the original Finns Party became opposition.

Political analysts in Finland have said the secessionist grouping made it possible for the government to continue. But in a parliamentary debate on Monday, the current opposition parties criticized strongly the way the government continued without resigning.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:45:07|Editor: Zhou Xin

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China is looking to reform its sci-tech awards system, according to a plan released by the State Council.

The reform will focus on adjusting standards, improving quality and controlling the numbers of awards.

As part of the reforms, the number of awards for the three major categories of natural sciences, technological invention and sci-tech progress will be cut to under 300.

The change will be based on a reform in 1999, when the number was decreased to a maximum of 400 from 800 previously.

The objects of the awards will be changed from "citizens" to "individuals."

Each of the provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities will be allowed to set up one province-level sci-tech award, while cities with independent planning status, Dalian, Qingdao, Ningbo, Xiamen and Shenzhen, can also set up an award.

Moreover, the authorities will take a stronger hand against academic misconduct, and improve the credibility system for the awards, as the credibility records of participants and judges will be filed as a part of the system.

The transparency of the awards is also highlighted by the plan, with awarding policies, judging processes and specific number of awards to be made public.

A total of 47,183 awards for the three major categories have been awarded so far in China, while 27 scientists have been conferred the State Top Scientific and Technological Award since its establishment in 2000.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:50:10|Editor: ying

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ARUSHA, Tanzania, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania's semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar has banned the selling of raw cloves ahead of the harvest season that is expected to start next month.

For more than 150 years, cloves have been a major export crop of Zanzibar, which is one of the world's major suppliers of cloves.

Amina Salum Ali, Zanzibar's Trade, Industry and Marketing minister, on Monday expressed her dismay over the increasing tendencies by farmers of selling the crop when it is still raw to unscrupulous smugglers, a move that denies the government its revenues.

The minister called for farmers to sell the crop to the Zanzibar State Trade Cooperation (ZSTC) and threatened stern measures against those selling the crop against the law.

"Our aim is to ensure that cloves harvested in Zanzibar are exported through proper channels ... we're determined to plug all the loopholes that lead to smuggling," she said.

Cloves are the aromatic flower buds of a tree in the family Myrtaceae, Syzygium aromaticum. They are commonly used as a spice.

Clove industry in Zanzibar was established through large plantations run with slave labor and has been progressively fragmented into smaller holdings. In recent years, the industry has faced recurring problems including tree diseases and aging tree populations.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 20:59:11|Editor: Zhou Xin

Workers work at the construction site of Humaling Tunnel, the last tunnel being constructed on a major railway connecting Lanzhou City in Gansu with the southwestern metropolis Chongqing, in northwest China's Gansu Province, June 19, 2017. After eight years of construction, the 13.61 km long Humaling tunnel was successfully holed through on Monday. (Xinhua/Guo Gang)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:00:14|Editor: ying

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JAKARTA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines have launched a joint maritime operation and established maritime command centers (MCC) to halt militants fighting in Southern Philippine from crossing sea borders.

Defense ministers and military chiefs of the three countries on Monday met in Tarakan city of northern Borneo Island of Indonesia, agreeing to conduct the trilateral coordinated maritime patrol and the establishment of the MCCs in the three cities of the nations, Indonesian Military Commander General Gatoto Nurmantyo said in a statement.

The military commander said that the operation is expected to halt militants fighting in Marawi city in Southern Philippines from crossing the sea borders of the three nations for escape.

Sharing of intelligence information among the MCCs in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines will support the implementation of the joint naval patrol, Nurmantyo added.

"With the trilateral cooperation, it will smooth information exchanges because the speed and accuracy of information is badly needed for an early anticipation, including the possibility of the escape of those who pretend to be refugees from Marawi," he said.

On the ongoing operation against militants in Marawi city, the general congratulated the Armed force of the Philippines over its achievement in the operation that already killed 257 militants.

"This is a warning for us to be ready to face such things as sleepers cells of the terrorism have been existing in our country," he added.

The IS linked militants have launched some suicide bombings in Indonesia over the past years, including the latest strike in East of Jakarta on May 24 that killed 3 police officers and two suicide bombers.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:05:17|Editor: ying

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JAKARTA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China, Japan and the Netherlands have confirmed that they would send delegations to Indonesia's upcoming cultural event of 2017 Borobudur International Festival (BIF) slated for July 28 to 30, an official at the tourism ministry said here.

The festival, which would be held around Borobudur, a world famous Buddhist temple in Central Java province's city of Magelang, would showcase cultural attractions of participating countries.

Exhibition of ancient artifacts would also be featured during the three-day festival.

Domestic Tourism Deputy Minister Esthy Reko Astuti said the event was expected to further boost visitors to the province's prominent destination.

"During the 3-day event, we expect the festival would be catered for at least 1,000 foreign visitors and thousands others of domestic ones," Esthy said here on Monday.

She added that Borobudur Temple was visited by 3.7 million foreign and domestic visitors last year, higher than 3.5 million ones a year earlier.

Borobudur Temple was built in 8th to 9th centuries during the reign of ancient Syailendra dynasty.

The temple and its 25 hectare compounds are enlisted as one of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) World Heritage.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:15:21|Editor: ZD

A Long March-4B rocket carrying X-ray space telescope to observe black holes, pulsars and gamma-ray bursts blasts off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China's Gobi Desert, June 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhen Zhe)

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China has moved up the list of the world's top 25 innovative economies, rising three notches from 25 to 22, with strong performance in several indicators, according to the latest Global Innovation Index (GII) released last week.

In 2016, it was the first middle-income country to make the list. China's technological innovations have made headlines in recent months, from the launch of its first X-ray space telescope to observe black holes and development of the world's first quantum computing machine, to the debut of its home-grown C919 passenger jet and its successful sampling of combustible ice.

Jointly released by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Cornell University, and INSEAD, the 2017 GII is in its 10th edition this year. The rankings are a leading benchmarking tool for business executives, policy makers and others seeking insight into the state of innovation around the world.

A closer look into the general index shows that China moved up one spot to 16th in innovation quality, retaining its position for the fifth consecutive year as the top middle-income economy and edging closer to high-income economies.

The report showed that China tops in a number of sub-rankings, including domestic market scale, human resources, patents by origin, high-tech exports, and industrial designs by origin.

The world's second-largest economy was once seen as an imitator and the "world's factory," churning out mountains of low-quality goods, but it is becoming capable of producing innovative products and ideas.

China's qualified patents exceeded one million last year, becoming the third country after the United States and Japan to join the world's million patent club.

Meanwhile, the number of "unicorn" companies in China -- young, unlisted companies with a market value of over 1 billion U.S. dollars -- rose from 70 in 2015 to 131 in 2016, most of which are high-tech firms, according to the Ministry of Science and Technology.

More unicorn companies are expected to pop up in China thanks to the country's support for entrepreneurship and public innovation. One case in point is the bicycle-sharing industry, with two industrial giants, Ofo and Mobike, having received billions of dollars in investment and expanding steadily overseas.

Wu Wensheng, executive deputy head with Great Wall Strategic Consultants, a leading private think tank, attributed China's impressive innovation progress to the country's large talent pool, growing investment in research and development as well as government policy support.

Innovation is at the core of the country's 13th five-year plan, which aims for China to become an "innovative nation" by 2020, an international leader in innovation by 2030, and a world powerhouse of scientific and technological innovation by 2050.

Innovation hubs, incubators and demonstration zones have sprung up across the country, with a string of government preferential policies to nurture start-ups.

However, the utilization rate of innovation resources still remains rather low in China, according to the report released by the Research Center for Technological Innovation with Tsinghua University.

The government should continue to invest in R&D and improve the efficiency of the application of innovation technology and products to convert them into social and economic benefits and boost China's innovation capability in the next 30 years, the report added.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:25:27|Editor: Mengjie

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday sent a message of condolences to his Portuguese counterpart Antonio Costa over the latest severe forest fire in Portugal that has resulted in dozens of deaths besides severe material damage.

Li said in the message that he was shocked to learn that the fire had caused serious losses of lives and property.

"On behalf of the Chinese government and people, and in my own name, I feel deeply grieved over the deaths of the victims and express sincere sympathy to their families. I hope the injured could get well soon," he said.

The Chinese leader said he believed that under the leadership of Costa, Portugal will definitely be able to overcome the difficulty and do the best to reduce the losses caused by the fire.

The death toll from the forest fires raging in central Portugal rose to 62 on Sunday, with 54 others injured, and search for more bodies and investigation into the cause of the disaster were still underway.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:25:30|Editor: An

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Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang addresses the opening ceremony of Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity in Qingdao, a coastal city in east China's Shandong Province, June 19, 2017.(Xinhua/Chen Yehua)

QINGDAO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang Monday called for closer Asia-Europe cooperation in boosting digital connectivity and information flows.

Wang made the remarks while addressing the opening of a forum on Asia-Europe digital connectivity, in Qingdao, a coastal city in eastern China.

Wang said the forum is part of an important consensus reached at last year's Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) summit. He said it is of great significance in boosting Asia-Europe digital economic development and tapping the potential for innovative growth.

He said China would make joint efforts with ASEM members to help build information infrastructure, enable countries to develop digital economies, and bridge the digital divide.

Wang proposed enhancing cooperation in customs, logistics, electronic payments and electronic certification, paperless trading and cross-border e-commerce, and the integrated development of digital economy and traditional industries.

"China will expand opening-up in areas such as telecommunication and the Internet in an active and prudent manner, and deepen digital industry cooperation with other countries," he said. "China is committed to improving transparency and security of digital economic activities, to maintain fair and just market order and better protect legitimate interests of enterprises and users."

More than 600 people from ASEM countries and international organizations attended the forum.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:40:42|Editor: ying

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by Ronald Njoroge

NAIROBI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kenya is on course to achieving universal electricity access by 2020, the electricity distributor said on Monday.

State-owned Kenya Power CEO Ken Tarus told a business forum in Kenya's Nairobi that so far 6 million households, or 69.4 percent of the population, have been connected to the national grid.

"Given the progress we have achieved so far, we are confident we will achieve universal access for electricity by end of 2020," Tarus said during a media briefing on updates on the Ease of Doing Business Reforms in 2017.

In the current financial year, Kenya Power has so far connected 1.2 million households to the national grid.

The East African country is expanding access to electricity under the Last Mile Connectivity Project which funded by government and donors such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

Tarus said that the government is prioritizing electricity connections especially in the rural areas due to its positive impact on the economy.

Tarus said that electricity access will be increased by reducing the cost of connectivity.

"We are subsidizing the cost of low-income earners to get connected to the nearest electricity transformers," he said.

"This will ensure that all households living within a 600 meters radius of a transformer will be connected to the national grid," he added.

Kenya's Vision 2030 has identified electricity as a key enable of economic development.

Kenya Power is undertaking various projects including implementing the government-led Last Mile Connectivity Project that is targeting to connect households to the grid at 150 U.S. dollars.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 21:50:55|Editor: ying

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ADDIS ABABA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Seventeen Ethiopian political parties, including the ruling party the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), on Monday agreed to negotiate on various proclamations and laws, including an anti-terrorism law.

The 17 Ethiopian political parties, who are undergoing discussion to broaden the country's political sphere, have also agreed to negotiate on the Mass Media and Freedom of Information Proclamation.

Shiferaw Shigute, head of EPRDF Office, on Monday assured representatives of opposition parties that his party is ready to negotiate on suggestions made.

The ruling party, however, stressed that it is not in favor of amending the aforementioned law and proclamations. One of the areas that the ruling party rejected to discuss is the draft agenda tabled by six opposition parties demanding the current state of emergency for negotiation.

"The Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front can not negotiate on the matter while the country is under emergency rule," local media FBC quoted Shigute as saying.

Opposition parties also requested to discuss on various articles that includes Article 39 of the Ethiopian constitution on secession and self-determination. Shigute, however, said that his party "will not negotiate on such articles since parties have no right to negotiate on the issues and amend the country's constitution."

Shigute also opposed opposition parties' request to discuss on the condition of political prisoners, saying that "the party doesn't negotiate on the issue as there is no political prisoner or a prisoner of conscience in Ethiopia."

Ethiopia, which has been under a state of emergency for over 7 month now, has embarked on a nationwide reform process since the end of 2016 in a bid to provide concrete answers to the preoccupations of the public.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 22:11:17|Editor: ying

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PARIS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A French national was killed by huge forest fires in central Portugal, French foreign ministry said on Monday.

"One of our compatriots died in these fires," the ministry said.

A crisis cell in Paris and French embassy in Lisbon were mobilized to provide all the necessary support to the victim's family, it added.

In a statement, the ministry expressed "deep emotion" and condolences over the people killed by Portugal's deadliest wildfires.

"France stands alongside Portugal and supports the ongoing operations with the deployment of three water planes," it said.

Over the weekend, fires broke out in Pedrogao Grande, some 150 km northeast of Lisbon, and quickly spread to towns in the district of Leiria.

The blaze killed at least 62 people.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 22:46:49|Editor: yan

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XINING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Snow leopard cubs have recently been spotted in bushes in the headwater region of the Yangtze, China's longest river.

The two snow leopard cubs were found by a Tibetan named Tsering Gyatso at a den on a mountain in Chidu county, Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in northwest China's Qinghai Province Thursday. He reported finding the cubs to the local government.

On Friday morning, scientists rushed to the site. They said the cubs were about two-weeks old and in good health, according to Rinchen Nyima, deputy director of the county's cultural affairs bureau.

The cubs were found in the bushes rather than their traditional habitat in bare rocks on high mountains.

The find, which may indicate that the snow leopard population is increasing or that their habitat has expanded, will help researchers to learn about living habits of the snow leopard in bushes and forests, said Xiao Lingyun with Peking University Center for Nature and Society.

Rinchen Nyima said the mother leopard went back to the den to feed the cubs Saturday morning.

Snow leopards are a Class A protected animal in China and are classified as "endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. They live in the Himalayas in central and south Asia at an altitude of 2,500 to 4,500 meters. They have been spotted in China's Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan, Tibet, Yunnan and Xinjiang.
File photo shows Kenyan Armed Police officers take position during a gun battle at the Kapenguria police station in Kapenguria, Kenya, July 14, 2016. (Xinhua/Allan Mutiso)

NAIROBI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's security officers said Monday they have arrested 88 terror suspects in Nairobi for plotting to carry out attacks during Eid celebrations marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

A police report says the suspects, 15 foreigners and 73 Kenyans, were arrested on June 15 at a rehabilitation center in Nairobi's Eastleigh residential estate that is largely inhabited by ethnic Somalis, in a joint security swoop.

"A joint security operation between anti-terrorism police unit, flying squad and directorate of criminal investigations (CID) acting on intelligence report raided the centers which are suspected of radicalization and human trafficking," the police said.

The East African nation has faced insecurity as bomb attacks using improvised explosive devices and grenades have been hurled in northeastern region since soldiers entered Somalia in 2011 to secure the shared border.

Kenya has also warned that attacks as threatened by the Somali-based terrorist group Al-Shabaab could affect the country's risk profile, scaring away foreign investors and tourists.

Meanwhile, the police are also interrogating four terror suspects at the weekend for plotting to carry an attack during Eid celebrations.

Three suspects were arrested in Voi town while escaping to Nairobi and another suspect was arrested in Nairobi and is yet to be airlifted to Mombasa to face similar charges.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 23:12:01|Editor: yan

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by Xinhua writer Wu Zhiqiang

NAIROBI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- My journey to Rwanda began well before my arrival in the country, online.

I filed my application on the website of the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE) on a Tuesday, and received almost immediate confirmation that it would be processed within three days.

By Friday evening, however, the tracking page still said the status of my application was pending.

I was forced to put off my flight scheduled for Saturday.

Meanwhile, I also sought help from the live-chat section on Irembo.com, the country's e-government portal. Irembo means "gateway" in the local Kinyarwanda language.

My helper online, called Neza, told me to "kindly contact" the immigration authorities at the three email addresses listed on the DGIE website.

It was on the seventh day after my submission that a notice of approval was emailed to me.

My trip to Rwanda was off to a somewhat disappointing start, or at least not as smooth as initially expected.

After a full nine days in Rwanda, however, I have come to realize that my experience with the online visa application process was just a minor hiccup as the country is striving to leave behind its tragic past.

I have also come to appreciate the optimism and confidence in the country's future among many Rwandans and foreigners.

------

Twenty-three years ago, Rwanda experienced one of the darkest chapters in human history. More than 1 million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were massacred within 100 days.

"Rwanda is a country of hills, mountains, forests, laughing children, markets of busy people, drummers, dancers, artisans and craftsman," reads a plaque at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center.

"We manage to squeeze thousands of hills and eight million people into our 26,338 square kilometers. Our land is rich and fertile, the climate pleasant.

"This has been our home for centuries. We are one people. We speak one language. We have one history.

"In recent times, though, genocide has cast a dark shadow over our lives and torn us apart.

"This chapter is a bitter part of our lives, but one we must remember for those we lost, and for the sake of the future."

Wreaths could be seen at many of the graves at the memorial.

"Interred here are the remains of over two hundred fifty thousand individuals," reads a plaque. "Please respect the sanctity of their final resting place."

Among the photos of genocide victims at the memorial center, located in northern Gisozi, in the Gasabo district of the capital, was one of a teenage girl sitting before a computer monitor.

That monitor, of the cathode ray tube (CRT) type, was similar to that of the first computer I owned, in 1994, about the same time when the Rwandan genocide was unfolding.

----

Fidele Ndayisaba, executive secretary of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission (NURC), was himself a survivor. Some of his brothers were killed in the genocide.

"I witnessed what had happened during the terrible tragedy," he said. "It's not something that I learned from outside."

"It was genocide of proximity... There were people who killed their neighbors, colleagues, friends or schoolmates. There were even people who killed their spouses, their own children, their in-laws, only because they were called Tutsi."

Before being appointed as head of the NURC, a government agency answering directly to President Paul Kagame, Ndayisaba had served as governor of the Southern Province and mayor of the capital, Kigali, and experienced the reconciliation efforts first-hand.

Rwanda has since adopted a policy of single national identity. Citizens are registered simply as Rwandans, with no ethnic or tribal references on their identification papers.

Under a campaign called "Ndi Umunyarwanda," or "I am Rwandan," the government seeks to recover the unity ingrained in its culture and to root out what it describes as divisionism and genocide ideology pursued by colonial rulers and the regimes of the first two republics.

"'Ndi Umunyarwanda' means putting the Rwandan identity above all, above all differences," Ndayisaba said. "It dignifies Rwandans."

"It helps in healing from those different wounds, from the shame of Rwandans who have lost their dignity, those who committed genocide, those who feel ashamed because of being relatives of killers, and survivors who have been victims of what happened."

While stressing the achievements made in the unity and reconciliation efforts, Ndayisaba did not shirk from the challenges ahead and the enormity of the long process of recovery.

A 2015 NURC report, Rwanda Reconciliation Barometer, put the country's reconciliation status at 92.5 percent, up from 82.3 percent of five years before.

Ndayisaba attributed the "remarkable progress" achieved by the country in the past two decades to the vision and leadership of President Kagame, who enjoys immense popularity among Rwandans.

"I see a very bright future for this country," he said.

----

Ndayisaba's optimism is shared by the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Rao Hongwei.

"A country that gives top priority to education has a great future," Rao said.

Rwanda now offers free universal primary and secondary education, emerging as "one of the top-performing countries in sub-Saharan Africa in education," according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The country's Education Ministry put the net enrollment rate at 97 percent.

"For us, education is the No. 1 issue," Finance and Economic Planning Minister Claver Gatete told us in an interview shortly before presenting the 2017-2018 budget to parliament, which he said would reflect the country's attention to education.

The number of universities has increased significantly, with education focusing more on science and technology and on technical and vocational training, Gatete said.

Candy Ma, chief executive officer of C&H, a garment business with factories in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, said she was "struck by the Rwandan people's eagerness to learn."

"We want to help them make the impossible possible," said Ma, who said she has also been moved by the attention and assistance of the government.

Ma was a member of the Rwandan delegation when President Kagame visited China last March.

"We may face difficulties such as transport costs that are twice or even three times higher than other places, but we'll try to cover that with better management and optimized operations.

"I have been in Africa for many years and have grown fond of this continent," Ma said. "We really want to help Rwanda's endeavor to industrialize."

C&H plans to register its own brand name to offer simple and affordable products to African consumers, said Ma, whose business card highlights "Made in Africa."

Anne An manages C&H's Rwanda plants in Kigali. She is impressed by not only the local workers' diligence, but also their sense of pride and dignity.

Many of them would voluntarily come to work as early as five in the morning, or stay well after the usual working hours, to master new skills as quickly as possible.

"When their own workload is fulfilled, some would offer to help fellow workers on the production line, or even colleagues on different lines," An said.

An said her plants now employ around 800 local workers, and an additional 1,500 will be hired as C&H builds new plants and opens a training school with the Workforce Development Agency (WDA).

C&H Rwanda has been in operation for about two years. Initially, its headworkers were selected mostly because of their good command of English to facilitate communication with managers and trainers.

As the garment factory's focus shifts more toward training and actual production, some of the headworkers were reassigned to posts as ordinary workers, as command of technical skills and peer satisfaction take precedent in choosing group leaders.

Almost all of those reassigned to lower ranks chose to leave, despite the fact that the pay was the same and they needed the money, An said, who attributed their departure to the Rwandans' impressive pride.

Rwanda is the 10th African country that John Gao has visited. Only two weeks in Kigali, the Chinese hair products merchant is already determined to stay and do business here.

Before his arrival in Rwanda, Gao, 51, spent three days in another African country, studying the local market. On one occasion, he was harassed by several policemen and almost had to pay hundreds of dollars to get out of trouble.

However, Gao said, he feels welcomed in Rwanda.

At the Rwanda Development Board, a clerk and a technician helped Gao register his firm. He arrived there at about 10 a.m. and was told everything would be ready at 3:30 p.m.

Bundi E. Walker is a co-founder of Afrionline Izyo Ltd., which offers taxi and delivery services in Rwanda. The taxi service, originally known as 250Taxi, after the country's telephone code, was later rebranded as AfriTaxi.

Mobile applications for both AfriTaxi and its sister delivery service, AfriDelivery, are available on IOS and Android app stores.

Walker, a 30-year-old Kenyan national, and his colleagues are still fleshing out AfriTaxi services and testing AfriDelivery operations.

Under the current law, Walker said, private car owners are not allowed to engage in profit-making car-sharing services in Rwanda, so his firm has recruited around 100 traditional taxi drivers.

AfriTaxi Rwanda is training its drivers in the use of smartphones and its proprietary apps and is in negotiations with hardware vendors. Representatives of Tecno, a Chinese mobile phone manufacturer, were among those Walker had talked to.

Walker is also very positive about the future of his business and of Rwanda.

"The sustained growth of 8 percent is an indication that the country is on a good trajectory," he said. "For businesses, you are guaranteed to grow."

While its operations are just fledgling in Rwanda, Afrionline is eyeing the wider African continent. Some of its services are also available in Uganda. Its main website lists a total of 11 countries for business coverage, nine of which have contact numbers.

-----

Christian Benimana has a very international background.

He was born in Rwanda, earned his bachelor's degree at the School of Architecture and Urban Planning of Tongji University in Shanghai and spent 10 years in China, where he met and married his wife and had their first child, a daughter. His father lives with his two sisters in Cotonou, Benin; his brother is a resident of Austin, Texas, the United States. He now lives with his mother, his wife, a Zambian, and two children in Kigali. His second child, a boy, was born two years ago in the Rwandan capital.

Benimana, 35, is the Rwanda programs director of MASS Design Group, which also has offices in Boston, Massachusetts.

As leader of the African Design Center, a field-based apprenticeship, Benimana's responsibilities cover the whole of Africa.

The continental initiative, he said, now has 11 fellows, from Rwanda, South Africa, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana.

"For some time now, architecture has only been regarded as products that only few can afford, can pursue," Benimana said. "It should not be limited to a few people, and when it's used for everybody, it needs to be used right, because if it doesn't, it makes damages, very expensive and long-lasting damages."

"Every architect can do great architecture in a vacuum. But when it's applied to real life, with real clients, with real sites, with real community challenges, with limited budgets, then it becomes a challenge."

On the future of Africa, Benimana appeared more circumspect.

"Optimistically, I see the continent being the new frontier for innovation, where new solutions come up and people test them, eventually being in the front of inventing new technological solutions and new ways of living.

"Pessimistically, I see it just becomes chaos, if not thought or done properly; the ecosystems cannot sustain the populations on them," he said. "That's the worst that can happen."

-----

Looking ahead, the landlocked Rwanda still has a lot of hurdles to clear. It has yet to graduate from the United Nations' list of least developed countries; 17 percent of its proposed 2017-2018 budget will be funded by donors.

In some parts of Kigali, sometimes one can still spot beggars and youngsters peddling pirated DVDs.

Along the road from the capital to Eastern Province, many locals can be seen carrying yellow containers of water by hand or on rusty bicycles, an indication of inadequate water supply.

But with a visionary leadership, a government with zero tolerance towards corruption and a population bent on shaking off its genocidal past, Rwanda is on the right track to emerge as a shining example of a rising Africa. Enditem (Lyu Tianran contributed to the report.)
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 23:17:08|Editor: yan

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KABUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Three Taliban militants were killed and 16 others captured after the Afghan Special Operation Forces carried out raids in two provinces, the military said on Monday.

"Three militants were killed and 11 detained following a Special Operation Force raid in Arghandab district of Kandahar province on Sunday," the Afghanistan Operational Coordination Group (AOCG) or command of Special Forces said in a statement.

In addition, five Taliban militants were detained in Shinwar District of eastern Nangarhar province on the same day, it noted.

Afghan security forces have beefed up security operations against militants recently, as the Afghans have been witnessing a surge in attacks by Taliban and Islamic State (IS) affiliates across the country.

The Taliban has yet to make comments.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 23:32:17|Editor: An

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Zhang Dejiang (2nd R), chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, addresses a symposium on the work of county and township-level people's congresses in Beijing, capital of China, June 19, 2017. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top legislator Zhang Dejiang Monday underlined the Communist Party of China's (CPC) leadership over people's congresses, urging them to better perform their duties in accordance with the law.

Zhang, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, made the remarks at a symposium on the work of county and township-level people's congresses.

Zhang urged people's congresses to remain realistic and pragmatic in their work.

He said that improving the system of people's congresses must be made in accordance with the law and replicable experience should be institutionalized and legalized in a timely manner.

Zhang stressed the importance of political consciousness, asking people's congresses to grasp the right political direction and fulfill their responsibilities.

Zhang also urged them to improve their abilities to perform duties in accordance with the law and to better coordinate the work of people's congresses at various levels.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 23:52:36|Editor: yan

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NAIROBI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Countries in East and Horn of Africa region are staring at a large-scale humanitarian crisis occasioned by acute food and water scarcity, international charity, Christian Aid said on Monday.

According to the charity, an estimated 20 million people are at risk of starvation in South Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia unless provision of relief food is stepped up by national governments and bilateral donors.

"The recent disappointing rains in Ethiopia, and also in Kenya have shattered any faint hopes for water sources to fill up, pastures to regenerate and harvest to be viable," said Christian Aid's Head of Humanitarian Programs for Africa, Maurice Onyango.

The UN had earlier warned of a looming specter of mass starvation in the greater Horn of Africa region as acute drought and conflicts hobble efforts to feed the population.

So far, only South Sudan has declared famine in some parts of the country while Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia could be the next epicenter of hunger and malnutrition.

The UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) says that cumulatively, 13.4 million people in Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia are food insecure.

Onyango noted that the magnitude of food insecurity in the region has not matched the capacity of humanitarian agencies to respond.

"Communities affected by drought are relying more on outside aid, stretching humanitarian agencies and local authorities to respond," said Onyango, adding that Christian Aid has so far provided life saving assistance to nearly 50,000 people affected by drought in the region

Besides providing emergency assistance to drought victims in the East and Horn of Africa, Christian Aid and a consortium of partners are investing in resilience projects to help communities cope with climatic shocks.

Onyango said the Charity has built the capacity of farmers and herders in arid zones to manage water and pasture in a sustainable manner.

"If the world wants to avert future catastrophes of this scale, we need to invest in helping communities become more resilient to disasters," said Onyango.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-19 23:57:41|Editor: An

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Commercial Manager of Power Construction Corporation of China Limited Zhang Peiliang and Additional Director General (infrastructure) of Bangladesh Railway Kazi Mohammad Rafiqul Alam sign the agreement on behalf of their respective sides and shake hands in Dhaka, Bangladesh, June 19, 2017. A leading Chinese company has signed an agreement to lay a dual-gauge track on the capital Dhaka-adjacent Narayanganj district route to increase Bangladesh Railway's capacity nearly fourfold. (Xinhua/Liu Chuntao)

DHAKA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A leading Chinese company has signed an agreement to lay a dual-gauge track on the capital Dhaka-adjacent Narayanganj district route to increase Bangladesh Railway's capacity nearly fourfold.

Power Construction Corporation of China Limited signed the construction contract with the Bangladeshi government on Monday in the capital Dhaka.

Commercial Manager of Power Construction Corporation of China Limited Zhang Peiliang and Additional Director General (infrastructure) of Bangladesh Railway Kazi Mohammad Rafiqul Alam signed the agreement on behalf of their respective sides.

The Bangladeshi government in January 2015 gave the final go-ahead to the project of about a rail link from Dhaka to Narayanganj district, about 20 km away from the capital.

Construction is scheduled to be completed by June 2019.

The total project cost would be met through the Bangladeshi government's own funds.

Chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council in January 2015 approved the 3.79-billion-taka (470-million-U.S. dollar) project.

Once the track is laid, Bangladesh Railway will be able to transport nearly 100,000 passengers on the route every day against its current capacity of 23,000 commuters.

Under the project, a dual-gauge track will be laid parallel to the existing meter-gauge track.

Seventy-six trains would run on the route every day after completion of the project. At present, 32 trains ply the route.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:07:43|Editor: yan

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MOGADISHU, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A Mogadishu court on Monday sentenced to death a soldier accused of killing public works and rehabilitation minister Abass Abdulahi Siraj early last month.

Military Court Chairperson, Col. Hassan Ali Nur 'Shute' said the court found the soldier Private Ahmed Abdullahi Abdi found guilty of shooting dead the minister deliberately.

"After listening to the hearing case of Abdi (29), a soldier, the court found him guilty of killing the minister of public works and reconstruction of government, Siraj, therefore the court sentenced him to a death penalty," Shute said.

"Witnesses and evidences identified that the soldier fired two bullets and one of his gunfire shots hit on the head of the minister and killed him," Shute said. The court ordered another soldier Osman Salad Bare to be freed.

The minister was the youngest among Somali government minister. This case has been going on since May 3 when the murder of the minister Siraj took place near the presidential area.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:07:48|Editor: yan

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JERUSALEM, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The number of settlement homes Israel began to build in the occupied West Bank rose 70 percent over the past year, the country's official bureau of statistics said Monday.

Between April 2016 and the end of March 2017, Israel began to build 2,758 new housing units, compared to 1,619 new units between April 2015 and March 2016, according to a report issued by the Central Bureau of Statistics.

At the same period, the number of structures Israel started to build, excluding the settlements, dropped about 2.7 percent, according to the report.

During the first quarter of 2017, 344 settlement homes were put into construction in Israel, it said.

Commenting on the new figures, Peace Now, an Israeli settlement watchdog, said in a statement that such construction "distances (Israel) from the only way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a two-state solution."

Also on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government is "the best government ever for the settlements."

Netanyahu has been under pressure by his ultra-nationalist coalition partner, the Jewish Home party, to step up the expansion of the settlements since U.S. President Donald Trump took office.

"There is no greater mistake than to undermine this right-wing government," Netanyahu warned at a meeting of his Likud faction.

Earlier in June, Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said plans for 8,345 new housing units were approved since Jan. 1, with 3,066 given final approval.

Israel occupied the West Bank and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war and has since been controlling them despite wide condemnation. The settlements are illegal under international law and are seen as a major obstacle to peace sought by the Palestinians and the international community.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:22:57|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Mahboub Maalim, on Monday called for restraint at Djibouti-Eritrea border.

Maalim, who is closely following the recent developments between Djibouti and Eritrea after the withdrawal of Qatar's peace keeping forces from the border between the two countries, is highly concerned by this development, said an IGAD statement.

The Executive Secretary has called on both countries to apply utmost restraint in solving the matter.

The African Union (AU) on Saturday made a call for restraint on the border of the two East African nations.

The Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, highlighted that the AU Commission, in close consultations with the authorities in Djibouti and Eritrea, is in the process of deploying a fact-finding mission to the Djibouti-Eritrea border.

Maalim has commended the prompt response of the Chairperson of the AU Commission.

"IGAD believes that the situation should be addressed as quickly as possible," the Executive Secretary has called on the UN to support the AU in its efforts to get hold of the situation.

The Executive Secretary has assured IGAD Secretariat's readiness to relentlessly work towards bringing peace between Djibouti and Eritrea, according to the statement from the East African bloc.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:22:59|Editor: yan

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HANOI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Vietnamese and Haiti top legislators reached consensus here on Monday that the two countries will develop their legislative ties and bilateral cooperation in other spheres.

President of the Senate of Haiti Youri Latortue arrived in Hanoi on Saturday for a six-day visit to Vietnam.

This is the first time the Senate has sent a high-ranking delegation to Vietnam to boost its friendship and cooperation with the Vietnamese legislature, Vietnam News Agency reported on Monday.

During their talks, Latortue and his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan agreed to develop their bilateral legislative ties and foster cooperation on telecommunications, agriculture, gender equality among other fields.

Vietnam and Haiti set up diplomatic ties in 1997. The Haitian government opened its embassy in Hanoi in 2013.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:28:06|Editor: yan

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LUSAKA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Rwandan President Paul Kagame arrived in Zambia for a two-day state visit.

Kagame's plane touched down at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 10 a.m. and he was received by his Zambian counterpart Edgar Lungu.

He was accorded a 12-gun salute and later inspected a guard of honor.

Zambia's Foreign Affairs Minister Harry Kalaba said the two leaders were expected to hold bilateral talks and share best practices on how to strengthen the ties between the two countries.

Kagame will also pay a visit to Zambia's first President Kenneth Kaunda and later lay wreaths at Embassy Park, a burial place for former Zambian presidents where he will lay wreaths on the tombs of three former leaders.

The two leaders are also expected to tour a steel company in Kafue town, south of Lusaka, on Tuesday.

The Zambian minister said the visit is important as it will enable the two leaders to share knowledge on various issues.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:33:08|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, on Monday strongly condemned the terrorist attack against security forces and civilians at Le Campement Kangaba resort, east of Bamako, Mali.

The Chairperson expressed AU's heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

He has reiterated AU's solidarity with the Government and people of Mali and its continued commitment to support the country in combating terrorism and restoring security and stability.

"Last night's appalling attack, which comes a little over a week following my five-nation tour in the Sahel region, reinforces the urgent need for the international community to support the G5-Sahel cooperation agreement to address security issues along their common borders, including terrorism, transnational organized crime and inter-communal conflict," said the Chairperson.

The United Nations Security Council is considering a request from the countries of the G5-Sahel, he said.

"I therefore stress the crucial importance of the Security Council's support to the collective efforts of the countries of the region, within the framework of the AU-UN partnership based on the relevant provisions of Chapter VIII of the UN Charter," he added.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:43:12|Editor: yan

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BISHKEK, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev signed a law aimed at strengthening the power of the country's national security body, the president's press service said Monday.

The law, adopted by the Kyrgyz Parliament on May 25, will strengthen the power of the country's Security Council in taking decisions on foreign and domestic policy aimed at protecting the constitutional order, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Kyrgyzstan, as well as ensuring its sustainable development in the long run, the press service said.

Atambayev signed in March a law on renaming the republic's Defense Council as the Security Council.

Under the new law, the Security Council is tasked with improving the national security system, identifying internal and external risks, forecasting, analyzing and assessing challenges and threats, and developing sufficient preventative measures.

The Security Council also has a right to inspect state bodies on defense and security issues, and also inspect the country's armed forces and law enforcement agencies.

The law also revises the composition, structure and organization of activities of the Security Council. In particular, the parliament will be represented in the Security Council by the speaker,the chairman of the committee responsible for defense and security issues, as well as the majority leader and the opposition leader in the parliament.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:48:18|Editor: yan

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LILONGWE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Malawi government has distanced itself from an online article that is in circulation claiming that Malawi President, Peter Mutharika, verbally attacked Zimbabwe President, Robert Mugabe, at a political rally.

The article, titled President Mtharika attacks Mugabe, authored by one, Chifundo Phiri, is undersigned Nyasa Times without any link provided.

The author of the article, who misspells the Malawi leader's surname, claims that the Malawi leader had said he would not seek second term but would rather step down to pave way for new blood.

The article quotes the Malawi president to have allegedly said "I don't want to be another Mugabe; Mugabe is in power for 37 years and look what he has done to the once Jewel of Africa?"

"We used to go to Harare for shopping and to seek medical attention but look what the old dictator Mugabe has done. I don't want to be a dictator like Robert Mugabe."

The article continues by alleging that Mutharika in his alleged speech at the said rally vindicated Botswana President, Ian Khama's alleged attack on Mugabe.

"Clinging to power is not good for SADC and Africa. I'm sorry for the people of Zimbabwe to have a dictator like Robert Mugabe," the article further quotes Mutharika to have said.

But in a statement dated June 18, 2017, Malawi government spokesperson, Nicholas Dausi, who is also Minister of Information and Communication Technology, described the article as "pure propaganda", adding that the Malawi President had never spoken ill of Zimbabwe.

"Government would like to distance itself from lies that have been made in the media that President Arthur Peter Mutharika is interfering in the internal matters of the Republic of Zimbabwe," wrote Dausi in the introduction of his statement.

"President Mutharika has never addressed a rally in Machinga, and has never held a meeting in public or in private where he made that statement where the unfortunate suggestions by the article have been drawn."

Dausi described Mutharika as an international diplomat and international law expert who understood the obligation of non-interference that nations were expected to comply with.

The Minister further described Zimbabwe as a sovereign state, and that as such they were entitled to determine their own internal matters as they saw fit.

"Suffice it to say Malawi has no business to dictate to the people of Zimbabwe how they should conduct their affairs," wrote Dausi.

The statement assured the people of Malawi and Zimbabwe that the Government of Malawi would remain resolute to its policy of not interfering in internal matters of other countries.

The spokesperson said due to lack of credible winning strategy for the 2019 elections, opposition parties in the country were running a desperate campaign to tell lies against the President and his administration in order to create chaos in the country and abhorrence in the international community.

Meanwhile, Managing Editor for the popular UK-based Nyasa Times, Thom Chiumia, has disowned the article through a WhatsApp media forum, Malawi Media Hub, where he wrote: "Nyasa Times never carried that story at any time."
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 00:58:29|Editor: yan

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ARUSHA, Tanzania, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania on Monday pledged to conduct a special ecological evaluation in Lake Tanganyika, amid media reports that the lake is under serious environmental degradation.

Isaac Kamwerwe, Tanzania's Deputy Minister for Water and Irrigation made the pledge when speaking in the country's capital Dodoma, when he was responding to question by Nkasi North MP, Ally Kessy who argued that for the past two weeks, international media have been reporting of environmental dangers at the lake, which pose risks of fish extinction.

"What is the government doing following such claims by the media on environment degradation activities threats to Lake Tanganyika?" the lawmaker queried, arguing that there are serious threats that call for the government interventions to save the lake and creatures in it.

In his response, the deputy minister said that the government would do all it takes to establish the root cause of the problem that threatens the existence of fish in the world's longest lake and the world's second deepest after Lake Baikal in Siberia.

Kamwerwe noted that the Tanzanian government was aware on the matter and has started working on them, including taking serious measures to avoid any further environmental challenges.

The official said that a detailed report on the assessment would immediately be adopted by the government through the relevant ministry to overcome the situation in the lake which is being shared by Tanzania, Zambia, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi.

He added that the government is set to implement a national-wide specific program of enhancing availability and provision of irrigation water throughout the country by assuring for effective uses of all valleys, rivers, and Lakes.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 01:08:34|Editor: yan

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ROME, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A peace deal was signed Monday in Rome between the government of the Central African Republic (CAR) and armed insurgencies.

The agreement mediated by the Sant'Egidio lay Catholic movement and the international community would put an end to a civil war that has been raging since 2012.

It calls for an immediate cease-fire, for the setting up of a Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission to stabilize the country, for the lifting of United Nations sanctions against CAR leaders, for the free circulation of humanitarian aid organizations, and for the return of refugees and displaced persons to their homes.

The 10-page so-called "Sant'Egido Agreement" posted on Twitter by the Catholic group was signed by the representatives of 13 different rebel groups and CAR Foreign Minister Charles Armel Doubane in the presence of the UN special representative in the CAR and Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Mario Giro.
U.S. President Donald Trump waves as he walks to board Marine One departing from the White House en route to Miami to announce his Cuba policy, in Washington D.C., the United States, on June 16, 2017. (Xinhua/Shen Ting)

VIENNA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Cuba's Foreign Minster Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said here on Monday Cuba will never negotiate under pressure and would not make any concession to the United States.

The visiting Cuban foreign minister made the remarks in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's order of tighter restrictions on Americans traveling to Cuba.

U.S. President Donald Trump's policy on Cuba is ill-advised and going back to the past failed policy, he said.

"Cuba will never negotiate under the pressure," he said, adding that the sovereignty and independence of his country must be respected.

The Cuban minster said but his country still needs to wait to analyze the negative effects of the Trump policy.

Cuba has the patience to normalize the relation with the United States, he said, questioning Trump's motivation of going back to the failed policy on Cuba.

The foreign minister called Trump's remark on Cuba was a "grotesque spectacle" straight out of the cold war and will strengthen patriotism in Cuba.

The new policy is not only a setback of the U.S. policy on Cuba, but also would affect the U.S. relationship with Latin America, he added.

President Trump last Friday ordered tighter restrictions on Americans traveling to Cuba and prohibitions on America's business dealing with Cuba's military, rolling back parts of former president Barack Obama's Cuba policy, saying that easing of restrictions on travel and trade does not help the Cuban people.

"When Cuba is ready to take concrete steps to these ends, we will be ready, willing, and able to come to the table to negotiate that much better deal for Cubans, for Americans," Trump said.

Rodriguez also said his country would not return the political refugees who had received the asylum from the Cuban government to the U.S., saying as the U.S. has no legal or moral basis to demand that.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 02:09:08|Editor: Liangyu

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ADDIS ABABA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of 70 companies from Shenzhen City, China's innovation hub, is attending a show in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa and locals are thrilled about the ample business opportunities on the horizon.

The delegation is in the east African country for the China (Shenzhen) Trade and Investment Promotion Meeting and Shenzhen Products show from Monday to Tuesday.

Lu Pengqi, Vice Chairman of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPTI) says there is good reason why business delegation from Shenzhen will attract attention.

"With Shenzhen's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reaching at 283 billion dollars in 2016 and GDP per capita standing at 25,000 dollars, the city is one of China's most developed and richest," Lu said.

Shenzhen transformed from little more than a fishing village to "China's Silicon Valley" in less than 40 years. It is home to a population of nearly 12 million and more than 5,300 Chinese enterprises including tech giants Huawei, ZTE, and Tencent, which in total have made overseas investments estimated at 80 billion U.S. dollars.

While trade relations between Ethiopia and its top trading partner China has reached 3.6 billion dollars in 2016, investment from Shenzhen city and Guangdong province to Ethiopia still lags compared to other Chinese provinces, says Tadesse Haile, Ethiopia's state Minister of Industry.

"Ethiopia offers Shenzhen a huge market as a next best destination in Africa, complemented by its desire to be a leading light manufacturing hub and middle income economy by 2025," says Haile.

Ethiopia's state minister of Industry was in particular referring to Shenzhen's reputation for knowledge intensive industries in addition to labor intensive industries like Textile and leather.

With Shenzhen popularly called China's "Silicon valley" for its reputation as innovation and entrepreneurship center, Ethiopia plans to tap its Information Communications Technology (ICT) ambitions on experiences from the likes of this entrepreneurial Chinese city.

The East African nation with a population of about 100 million, is focusing on labor intensive industries like textiles and leather to give its 45 million workforce mass employment while hoping ICT will give it a technological edge.

Already Chinese government is facilitating business capacity training and management skills to Ethiopian business community and experts.

It is hoped that this will help in fostering technological innovation and creative talent as a springboard for competitive export to the global economy.

Ethiopia hopes to transform its largely agrarian economy with manufacturing taking 50 percent share of GDP, creating annually 2 million job opportunity for youth.

"Ethiopia is at a crossroads between the Middle East, Africa and Asia giving access to wide market and huge human capacity as well as capable of creating large job opportunity," says Afework Solomon, President of Ethiopia's Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (ECSA).

Fitsum Arega, Commissioner of the state owned Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) points to another advantage the country has to attract Shenzhen investors.

"Ethiopia has constructed, is constructing or plans to construct 13 industrial zones across the country using Chinese expertise and companies for the most part," he says.

Arega also points labor cost being 10 times cheaper than Shenzhen, companies can invest in sectors like textile and apparel and be assured of good return on their investments.

Already Ethiopia gives a 10-15 years tax holiday on companies investing in its industry parks while giving access to duty free European and U.S. markets.

Arega further spoke about Ethiopia's ambitions in energy sector, requesting Shenzhen's experience in particular with solar and wind projects.

Ethiopia is currently undertaking large solar, wind, hydro and geothermal projects with a plan to increase its electricity generation capacity from current 4,200 MW to 17,300 MW by 2020.

While the first day of the trade and investment promotion meeting focused on hard statistics there was another reason, Ethiopian business people and officials welcome investment from Chinese cities like Shenzhen.

"Ethiopia feels at ease with Chinese businesses with China's economic achievement of becoming the world's second biggest economy in a short time being an inspiration," says Solomon.

That ease has translated into Chinese exports accounting for about 87 percent of Ethiopia's import in 2013.

It has also meant that between 1992-2014, 814 Chinese private companies' invested and commissioned projects valued at 1.6 billion U.S. dollars.
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at the White House in Washington D.C. June 9, 2017. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

MADRID, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has condemned on Monday the United States decision to restore travel restrictions with Cuba, the organization said in a statement.

The UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, said the decision represented "a step backward and a strong attack on the freedom of travel", adding that it would affect the U.S. economy and jobs.

"This decision will have limited impact on Cuba's tourism development, yet it will substantially affect the U.S. economy and American jobs," he said.

"Many U.S. companies have started to invest in and do business with Cuba in view of the immense potential of Cuba's tourism, which other countries will surely continue to benefit from," he said.

According to the UNWTO, Cuba received 4 million international visitors last year, which meant a rise of 1 million in only five years.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on June 16 during a speech in Miami that his administration would impose new restrictions for companies doing businesses with the Cuban armed forces and for U.S. citizens traveling to the island country.

The Cuban government had said that the decision was a step backward in the relationship between the two countries, stating that any strategy aimed at changing Cuba's political and economic system would fail.
A member of Iraq's elite Counter-Terrorism Service mans a machine gun as another takes cover inside a building during the advance towards the Old City of Mosul on June 19, 2017 as the ongoing offensive continues to retake the last district still held by the Islamic State (IS) group fighters. (Xinhua/AFP Photo)

MOSUL, Iraq, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi forces continue slow push on Monday into the last Islamic State (IS) stronghold of the old city center in western Mosul amid fierce clashes with the extremist militants, the Iraqi military said.

The regular army, Counter-Terrorism Forces and the Federal Police continued house-to-house battles against IS militants in the narrow alleys at the edges of Mosul's old city center, a security source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

The progress was slowed by the stiff resistance of IS militants and a large number of roadside bombs and booby-trapped buildings, in addition to IS snipers who took positions in the buildings of heavily-populated neighborhoods, the source said.

The troops surrounded the neighborhoods of the old city, leaving extremist militants only two choices: to surrender or be killed, the source added.

During the day, security forces called on trapped civilians in the old city to keep away from the IS positions and urged the civilians to exploit any chance to flee their homes toward the security forces fighting in the nearby buildings and alleys, he said.

Late Sunday night, Iraqi planes dropped about 500,000 leaflets in the small area of the old city, which is roughly 3 square km, informing the remaining residents about the launch of the final push to dislodge IS militants from their neighborhoods, he added.

According to UN reports, some 100,000 civilians still trapped in the IS-held areas in the old city center and the adjacent al-Shifaa neighborhood. The extremist group is using the civilians as human shields.

Iraqi forces, backed by international coalition, launched their final push on Sunday morning to drive out IS militants from al-Shifaa neighborhood and most of the densely-populated old city center in the western side of Mosul, locally known as the right bank of Tigris River.

Also on Monday, an Iraqi journalist and three French reporters were injured in a landmine explosion near their vehicle in Mosul, while covering the advance of the Iraqi forces against the IS militants, according to the security source.

Mosul, 400 km north of Iraq's capital Baghdad, has been under IS control since June 2014, when government forces abandoned their weapons and fled, enabling IS militants to take control of parts of Iraq's northern and western regions.
Photo taken on June 20, 2016 shows Sunway TaihuLight, a new Chinese supercomputer, in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province. Performing 93 quadrillion calculations per second, Sunway TaihuLight dethroned China's Tianhe-2 from the top in a list of the 500 most powerful supercomputers in the world. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

CHINA'S HOMEGROWN SUPERCOMPUTERS

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the U.S. government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

An engineer shows the many-core processor of Sunway TaihuLight, a new Chinese supercomputer, in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province, June 16, 2016. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

SWISS SYSTEM "REALLY A SURPRISE"

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the U.S. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.

"This is the second time in the 24-year history of the TOP500 list that the United States has failed to secure any of the top three positions," the TOP500 organizers said in a statement.

The only other time this occurred was in November 1996, when three Japanese systems captured the top three spots.

"Nevertheless, the U.S. still claims five of the top 10 supercomputers, which is more than any other nation," they said.

Fu called the upgraded Swiss system "really a surprise," saying that "it reflects the increased investment in large-scale supercomputers in Europe."

AMERICA'S STRONG STRENGTH

"Although the U.S. dropped out of the top three, it still has strong strength in high performance computing," Fu told Xinhua. "If everything goes well, we could see two U.S. systems with a performance of 200 to 300 petaflops in the next rankings at the end of the year."

Just days before the TOP500 announcement, the U.S. Department of Energy said it has awarded AMD, Cray, HP Enterprise, IBM, Intel and NVIDIA a total of 258 million U.S. dollars in funding to accelerate the development of next-generation supercomputers.

"Continued U.S. leadership in high performance computing is essential to our security, prosperity, and economic competitiveness as a nation," U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said in a recent statement.

The immediate goal of the United States is to develop at least one exascale-capable system by 2021, which will be at least 10 times faster than China's Sunway TaihuLight.

"Global competition for this technological dominance is fierce," the U.S. Department of Energy asserted. "However, the U.S. retains global leadership in the actual application of high performance computing to national security, industry, and science."

In addition, the latest list showed that the United States leads the pack in the total number of TOP500 systems, with 169, while China is a close second with 160. Both countries lost share compared to six months ago, when they each claimed 171 systems.

Besides the United States and China, the most well-represented countries on the list are Japan, with 33 supercomputers, Germany, with 28, France, with 18, and Britain, with 17.

Overall, aggregate performance on the TOP500 rose to 749 petaflops, a 32 percent jump from a year ago.

Such an increase, though, is well below the list's historical growth rate of about 185 percent per year, said the organizers.

"The slower growth in list performance is a trend that began in 2013, and has shown no signs of reversal," they said.

When it comes to companies making these systems, the U.S.-based Hewlett-Packard Enterprise claims the number one spot with 143 supercomputers. China's Lenovo is the second most popular vendor, with 88 systems, and Cray is in third place, with 57.

There are three other Chinese companies in the vendor list: Sugon (No. 4 with 44 systems), Inspur (No. 6 with 20 systems) and Huawei (No. 7 with 19 systems).

The Top500 list is considered one of the most authoritative rankings of the world's supercomputers. It is compiled on the basis of the machines' performance on the Linpack benchmark by experts from the United States and Germany.
A military vehicle of SDF in west of Raqqa province,Syria June 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

DAMASCUS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army captured over 20 villages and towns in the countryside of the northern province of Raqqa, the de facto capital of the Islamic State (IS) group, state news agency SANA reported on Monday.

In a statement carried by SANA, the general command of the Syrian army said the government forces and allied troops captured over 20 villages and towns and the key city of Rasafeh in the southern countryside of Raqqa.

This comes a day after the U.S.-led coalition brought down a Syrian warplane striking IS positions in Raqqa.

The incident sparked tension between the U.S. and Russia, as the U.S. said the downed Syrian jet was striking near the positions of U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

In a statement Monday, the SDF said the Syrian army has been targeting IS positions in Raqqa since June 17.

However, the Syrian army said it was striking IS positions over Rasafeh, accusing the U.S. of attempting to thwart the government forces' progress in the city.

The SDF is fighting to capture Raqqa from IS, while the Syrian government forces were advancing in the western and southern countryside of Raqqa to secure areas in the southern countryside of Aleppo province and to open a road to extend the operation to the eastern province of Deir al-Zour.

Following the warplane incident, Russia suspended the safe flight agreement with the U.S., which has repeatedly struck Syrian government forces advancing against IS in the Syrian desert recently.

Such incidents imply that defeating IS in its strongholds could be the beginning of a new conflict in Syria between Russia-backed and U.S.-supported forces.
A photo taken in 2010 shows Italian sculptor Dionisio Cimarelli is working on a sculpture of Italian missionary Matteo Ricci, who came to China in 17th early Century. (Archive photo/provided by Dionisio Cimarelli)

by Xinhua writers Yang Shilong, Zhang Zhihuan

NEW YORK, June 18 (Xinhua) -- In 1601, an Italian missionary named Matteo Ricci (1552-1610) entered the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Chinese imperial palace, opening a path for East-West cultural exchange that many people set foot on.

Inspired by Matteo Ricci's legend, in 1986, Dionisio Cimarelli, aged 21 then, boarded a Trans-Siberian train to Beijing for the first time.

FASCINATED WITH CHINA

"China is one of my very old passion. Since I was a student, I was very interested in Chinese culture, Chinese art, Chinese people....so in 1986 I stopped my study in the academy and I decided to move to China for a big trip," said Cimarelli, who now teaches sculpture at the New York Academy of Arts.

"Matteo Ricci probably went to China to teach, but I went there primarily to understand, which was also my way to try to understand and exchange, and explain to the Chinese my culture, my education, and Chinese can teach me their own culture," he told Xinhua.

China at that time was not yet fully open to tourism and streets of its cities were full of bikes, no busy traffic at all, he recalled.

"...in 1986, I found China a poor country, it was coming out from a very difficult time in terms of economy and culture. But in 1986 I was also able to see the beginning of the change after the opening-up," he said, referring to China's adoption of the policy of reform and opening to the outside world in 1978.

Cimarelli returned to find a very different China in 2004 and he stayed nine years since in the booming country.

"I feel very lucky and I'm very very proud that I was able to see this change which would not only be part of China, but also part of the world change," he said.

"I saw huge change. From 1986 to 2004, China already changed a lot," he said.

"But during my nine years in China from 2004 to 2013, there was huge, enormous, amazing change. I was able to see every week the difference in Shanghai and Beijing, which I was going to very often. Continuously I saw the change," he said.

"I would say that in 2007 and 2008, there were the biggest changes in Beijing before the Olympic Games, I would say the change was 180 degree completely," he said.

"I could also see the change of people, the change of the attitude of the Chinese. They became more wealthy, they started to travel, they started to know. For the young people, they were able to do their Ph.D. in Europe and the U.S.A. So there are the enormous changes, you almost can't recognize the country, I would say," he said.

Dionisio Cimarelli is speaking to Xinhua reporters in an exclusive interview, May 11, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Zhihuan)

CHOOSING PORCELAIN AS STEP CLOSER TO CHINESE CULTURE

"China for me was an amazing experience, incredible. That's why I was able to stay for such a long time. It is because I've always been interested and curious and have always been learning the history and the mentality of the Chinese people, to understand them," said Cimarelli.

In Beijing, Cimarelli met Situ Jie, a renowned sculptor at the Central Academy of Arts. He was then introduced to other professors and students at the academy. In 2006, he moved to Shanghai to work for a cultural institute.

Soon his expertise and experience in China caught the attention of the Italian government which commissioned him to do a sculpture of Matteo Ricci for the Italy Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010.

"Matteo Ricci was coming very close to my hometown. What he did was a bridge between the Western culture and the Chinese culture," Cimarelli said.

"So when they offered me this opportunity, I was really excited, I said, of course I would do it. I tried to make it something unique, something different which could represent Italy and represent China, Chinese culture as a bridge," he said.

Cimarelli finally created a 1.5-meter-tall bronze sculpture of Matteo Ricci adorned with gilded calligraphy. The calligraphy in fact is Cimarelli's name written in Chinese characters. It took him six weeks to model and another twelve weeks to finish the sculpture which was collected by the Shanghai Italian Center in 2013 following the expo.

Life in China also transformed Cimarelli's pursuit of art, making figurative sculptures in Chinese porcelain instead of Italian ceramics.

"When I made my series of porcelain, that was probably the most important learning, because I never did any porcelain before. I was coming from a culture of ceramic, Italian ceramics, which looks similar but is completely different," he said.

"So porcelain for me is an understanding of the culture of China, an understanding of a way of living, an understanding of a way of working. So for me to choose porcelain is a step forward closer to the Chinese culture," he said.

A photo taken in 2010 shows Italian sculptor Dionisio Cimarelli standing beside his work, a sculpture of Italian missionary Matteo Ricci, who came to China in early 17th Century. (Archive photo/provided by Dionisio Cimarelli)

EXPECTATION OF EUROPE-ASIA HIGH-SPEED RAILWAY

Italy is a nation in the West with cultural ties closest to China, Cimarelli said, it is no surprise that in China the two most famous historical figures from the West are Italian -- Marco Polo (1254-1324) and Matteo Ricci.

He is confident that Italy, once an important terminal of the ancient Silk Road, would play a major role in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China in 2013.

The initiative consists of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road, with an aim to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along and beyond the ancient Silk Road trade routes.

Apart from the economics, Cimarelli said, the Belt and Road Initiative, just as the ancient Silk Road, serves for a deeper cause too, which is the exchange and understanding of cultures.

"I think primarily it's business. That was the same in the Middle Age when Marco Polo was travelling, that's the main purpose. But behind that, for me the culture is very important," he said.

"It would be like a way, a road along which you can do business with countries, but there is also cultural exchange which we need today," he noted.

"I think today we need more bridges than walls, we need more understanding than trying to avoid each other," he said.

Cimarelli also expressed his hope that Europe and Asia would be soon connected by the high-speed rail that is commonly seen all over China.

"They did in China several huge projects with the train, like the one from Beijing to Lhasa (in west China's Tibet region). I really hope they can do that (between Europe and China) because that would be an amazing and incredible trip, and I would really enjoy it. I hope I will not be too old to wait for that," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:30:59|Editor: yan

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WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Otto Warmbier, a U.S. college student who was released by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) less than a week ago, died on Monday, his parents said.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m.(1820 GMT)," his parents Fred and Cindy Warmbier said in a statement.

Warmbier's parents thanked the "wonderful professionals" at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and denounced the DPRK for mistreating their son.

Warmbier's parents have told U.S. media that he was medically evacuated from the DPRK in a coma.

The DPRK confirmed his release in a report by the state-run Korean Central News Agency, saying he was sent back home "on humanitarian grounds."

The 22-year-old student from the University of Virginia has been in a state of coma for more than a year after contracting botulism soon after he was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in a trial by the DPRK supreme court on March 16, 2016, according to U.S. local media.

Warmbier was detained by the DPRK authorities at the Pyongyang International Airport on his way back home in January 2016 after he attempted to take a political slogan from a staff-only area in a hotel where he stayed during his tour to the country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:36:02|Editor: yan

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THE HAGUE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 70 percent of Dutch adults worry about a terrorist attack taking place in the Netherlands, and 40 percent thinks the chance of a terrorist attack happening in the Netherlands is high, a report published by the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) on Monday showed.

Despite these concerns, only 4 percent of Dutch adults think that it is likely they themselves would become a victim of terrorism, and almost 75 percent of adults think the chance they become a victim is small.

The data is based on a survey carried out by CBS from February to May 2016 among over 3500 respondents of 18 years and older. The results also showed that the concern about a terrorist threat is reflected in the behavior of people.

Nearly 40 percent indicated that they are on alert in their daily life because of a possible terrorist attack. They pay attention to suspicious people or suspicious behavior, including people with large backpacks or suitcases, people with a foreign appearance, people showing nervous behavior and people hanging around at places where they seemingly should not be.

In addition, a large part of the respondents indicated that they generally look around more often, especially in situations where many people gather, for example during major events, at train stations, at airports and in shopping centers. They also said they often monitor suspicious situations, such as unattended bags or suitcases.

Some of the Dutch adults also show avoidance behavior. Nearly half of the Dutch holidaymakers indicated they currently avoid certain destinations they would like to visit, because of the terrorist threat they feel.

It is the first time CBS conducts research into fear of terrorism in the Netherlands. Since the survey was completed in May last year, several attacks have happened worldwide, including those in London, Manchester, Berlin and Munich.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:41:04|Editor: yan

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BRUSSELS, June 19 (Xinhua)-- It's possible for the European Union (EU) and Britain to strike a fair Brexit deal which is "far better than no deal", EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier told reporters on Monday.

"Both for the EU and the UK, a fair deal is possible, and far better than no deal, that is what I say to David today, that is why we will work all the time with the UK and never against the UK," Michel Barnier said at a joint press conference with his British counterpart David Davis, after wrapping up the opening salvo of the Brexit talks in Brussels.

His remarks obviously alluded to British Prime Minister Theresa May's catchphrase "no deal is better than bad deal."

Barnier hailed that the first session was "important", "open", and "useful indeed to start off on the right foot as the clock is ticking".

"Today we agreed on dates, we agreed on organization, and we agreed on priorities for the negotiation," he said, outlining a two-step negotiation.

"In the first step, we will deal with the most pressing issues, we must lift the uncertainty caused by Brexit; we want to make sure that the withdrawal of UK happens in an orderly manner.

"In the first step, the negotiation rounds will be broken down into three groups -- citizen rights, the single financial settlement, and other separation issues.

"These groups will report back to their respective principles during each negotiation week. David Davis and I, as chief EU negotiator, will discuss the issues together, tackle difficulties, and lift obstacles.

"Then in the second step, we scope our future partnership; we also agree on how we structure our tools."

Barnier said the two sides will have one week of negotiation every month, and use the time in between to work on proposals and exchange them.

"There will be no austerity on my side, I will display a constructive attitude firmly based on interests and support of the (EU) 27, and I will all the time seek to the continued support of the European Parliament," he said.

Echoing Barnier, British Brexit minister David Davis applauded the "very productive discussions," saying, "I've been encouraged by the constructive approach that both sides have taken."

"It was clear from the opening that both of us want to achieve the best possible outcome and the strongest possible partnership," said Davis, adding that he was happy to see that there is much common ground between the two sides.

"Ever since the referendum I have been clear that my first priority is to provide certainty to European Union citizens living in the United Kingdom and to UK citizen residents in the European Union, and I know Michele has that aspiration too.

"So now that the negotiations are started we are determined to get on with the jobs and deliver that certainty as soon as possible," he said.

He said Prime Minister Theresa May will later this week update European leaders on Britain's approach on protecting citizen rights at the EU summit slated for Thursday and Friday.

"We will then publish a detailed paper outlining our offer on (next) Monday which I believe will form the right basis on which to reach agreement," he said.

"Michel and I will meet every four weeks bringing our teams together for a number of days at a time. We hope this regular rhythm will help us progress our discussions across the full range of issues very quickly," he added.

"Today marks the start of the journey for the United Kingdom and the European Union. There's a long way to go but we're off to a promising start. We have taken the first critical steps together; now we have a shared responsibility to deliver quick and substantive progress," he said.

Regarding the future relationship with the EU, the secretary said that Britain hasn't changed its position despite the Conservative majority was wiped out after the snap election on June 8.

"We have the Lancaster House speech, the two white papers and the article 50 letter, all backed up by a manifesto -- and so it's the same as it was before," he said, reiterating that Britain will leave the single market and seek to set up a free trade arrangement with the EU.

"Similarly we'll be leaving the Customs Union... that's the only way we can develop our free trade arrangements with the rest of the world," he added.

The EU and Britain on Monday launched the long-awaited Brexit talks at European Commission's headquarters in Brussels, nearly one year after Britain voted to leave the bloc by a narrow margin on June 23, 2016.

May sent a notification letter to the EU in late March, triggering a two-year countdown to Britain's withdrawal of the bloc after more than 44 years of membership.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:41:06|Editor: Liangyu

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) and First Lady Melania Trump (1st L) welcome Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela (2nd R) and his wife Lorena Castillo at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, June 19, 2017. (Xinhua/Ting Shen)

WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump held talks with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela at the White House on Monday, hailing the "very strong" relationship between the two countries.

"Things are going well in Panama. The relationship has been very strong," Trump said during a bilateral meeting with Varela.

The two countries "are developing new things to do and only getting stronger," Trump added.

The focus of the talks between Trump and Varela include their shared priorities in the fight against transnational organized crime, illegal migration, and illicit substances, according the White House.

During the meeting, Varela noted that Panama and the U.S. face the "same challenges" in the region.

"So the idea of this visit is to work closely together to face the same challenges that we have in the region of Central America and Latin America and in our continent," the Panamanian president said.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:41:07|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on international community to eliminate sexual violence in conflict by addressing root causes of such crimes.

"Rape and sexual violence in conflict are tactics of terrorism and war, used strategically to humiliate, degrade and destroy, and often to pursue a campaign of ethnic cleansing," said Guterres in a message for the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

"The United Nations is making every effort to address the root causes of conflict-related sexual violence by using preventive diplomacy, fostering peace-building and development, encouraging national action, and ending gender discrimination," he said.

On June 19, 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to proclaim June 19 of each year the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

It is aimed to raise awareness of the need to put an end to conflict-related sexual violence, to honor the victims and survivors of sexual violence around the world and to pay tribute to all those who have courageously devoted their lives to and lost their lives in standing up for the eradication of these crimes.

The date was chosen to commemorate the adoption on June 19, 2008 of UN Security Council resolution 1820 (2008), in which the 15-nation council condemned sexual violence as a tactic of war and an impediment to peace-building.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:46:09|Editor: yan

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UNITED NATIONS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Monday announced the appointment of Muzoon Almellehan, a 19-year-old female education activist and Syrian refugee, as its newest and youngest Goodwill Ambassador.

The appointment, which came on the eve of World Refugee Day, makes Muzoon the first person with official refugee status to become an Ambassador for UNICEF.

Muzoon, who received support from UNICEF while living in Za'atari refugee camp in Jordan, follows in the footsteps of the late Audrey Hepburn, a Goodwill Ambassador who was also supported by UNICEF as a child.

"Even as a child, I knew that education was the key to my future, so when I fled Syria, the only belongings I took with me were my school books," said Muzoon. "As a refugee, I saw what happens when children are forced into early marriage or manual labor -- they lose out on education and they lose out on possibilities for the future."

On World Refugee Day, observed every year on June 20, the international community commemorates the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees. This year, World Refugee Day also marks a key moment for the public to show support for families forced to flee.

"That's why I am proud to be working with UNICEF to help give these children a voice and to get them into school," she said.

Muzoon fled the conflict in Syria along with her family in 2013, living as refugee for three years in Jordan before being resettled in the United Kingdom. It was during her 18 months in the Za'atari camp that she began advocating for children's access to education, particularly for girls.

"Muzoon's story of bravery and fortitude inspires us all. We are very proud she will now become an Ambassador for UNICEF and children around the world," said UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Justin Forsyth.

Muzoon recently travelled with UNICEF to Chad, a country where nearly three times as many girls as boys of primary school age in conflict areas are missing out on education, the UN agency said in a press release, adding that she met with children forced out of school due to the Boko Haram conflict in the Lake Chad region.

Since her return, Muzoon has been working to promote understanding of the challenges children affected and uprooted by conflict face in accessing education.

An estimated 25 million children of primary and secondary school are out of school in conflict zones. For children living as refugees, only half are enrolled in primary school and less than a quarter are enrolled in secondary school.

Education in emergencies is severely underfunded. Since 2010, less than two percent of humanitarian funding has been spent on education. About 8.5 billion U.S. dollars are needed annually to close this gap, UNICEF said.
Prospective homebuyers enquire about an upcoming residential property at a Beijing real estate fair. Recent measures against speculative property investments are said to be pushing demand from top-tier cities to small cities. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Transactions are down too, but demand shifts to lower-tier cities, sparking concerns

Recent measures against speculative property investments have begun to have the desired impact of reining in runaway preowned home prices and cooling the transaction frenzy in top-tier cities like Beijing and Shanghai, said analysts.

But the unintended side-effect is that demand is shifting to smaller cities where prices of both homes and land are surging.

According to Yunfang Data, a property information provider, 10,802 preowned homes in Beijing were transacted in May, down almost 36 percent from April and the lowest in the past 27 months.

The average price of preowned homes in Beijing dropped 0.72 percent in May to 69,493 yuan ($10,224) per square meter from the April level.

According to BA Consulting, the average price declined some 2.4 percent between April and May.

"As transaction volumes continue to drop, the average price is likely to decline further," said Kong Dan, a researcher with BA Consulting.

Sales of commercial-titled apartments to individual buyers were barred. So, such flats, which were part of the preowned homes market, are no longer part of supply.

As for Shanghai, according to qianzhan.com, another industry information provider, 14,600 preowned homes were transacted in May, down more than 5 percent from April.

The average price in Shanghai, however, did not budge much, staying around 72,000 yuan / sq m in the central area and 43,000 yuan/sq m in suburban areas.

One of the reasons is that supply of land parcels for new residential projects in Beijing and Shanghai is limited.

This sets limits on both incremental supply of, and transactions in, the preowned home market. So, existing supply dominated transactions in the two cities' central districts.

Shanghai housing authorities said earlier this month that the changes in the situation are proof that "market-specific policies" are taking effect.

Tighter lending norms meant that prospective homebuyers are no longer able to afford down payments for apartments.

Shanghai realty agents said transactions in the preowned home market are "sloppy" because both supply and demand are "bearish".

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, which monitors the average housing price in 70 cities, Shanghai's home prices have fallen 0.2 percent.

"After April, when the average price started to drop slightly for the first time in the past few years, many sellers withdrew from the market. They fear that deals at a time of falling prices would cause loss of value. They expect prices to recover later. But homebuyers have suspended buying, waiting for further price cuts," said Luo Weijuan, 29, an agent with Minyu Real Estate in Jing'an district.

"Some sellers, fearing that prices would drop further quickly, are open to bargaining, but they insist on payment in cash in lump sum."

She estimates that the average price of a preowned home in central Jing'an district has dropped some 4 percent in the past two months.

At the same time, for some spacious apartments that command a high price, the price cut could be as much as 10 percent, as long as the buyers are able to pay upfront using debit cards or bank checks.

In some smaller cities neighboring top-tier cities, such as Jiaxing, which is about an hour's drive from Shanghai, housing prices picked up quickly as a result of the spillover effect.

The average price of preowned homes in the city's central districts was about 5,000 yuan /sq m in June 2015, but rose to some 12,000 yuan/sq m earlier this month.

Yang Kewei, an analyst with CRIC China, a realty information provider, said that the market heat of key cities is now shifting to lower-tier cities, and it is likely that their key regions will heat up next.

"Fresh purchase restrictions may be imposed in lower-tier cities if local decision-makers decide to stabilize home prices," said Yang.

In a research note last Monday, the China Academy of Social Sciences said more home purchase restrictions and tightened monetary policy will weigh on market demand in the short term.

The note predicted that prices in previously red-hot markets like Beijing will continue to fall.

For their part, Shanghai authorities said they will continue to work toward stable and sustainable development of the local real estate market.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:51:11|Editor: yan

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GENEVA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A Swiss working group is looking into the possibility of offering assistance of leaving the world in a peaceful manner to elderly people who are still in good health but tired of life, according to EXIT, a Switzerland-based organization, on Monday.

The working group will discuss ethical, legal and political issues concerning the provision of assisted suicide to healthy people. When the report is concluded Exit will decide if it should take steps in that direction.

Switzerland is one of the few countries in the world where assisted suicide is legal, as long as the person giving such assistance receives no financial benefit from it.

Under the Swiss law, EXIT is helping those with incurable illnesses to end their lives, a way specifically committed to the human right of dignity and self-determination as is expressed in a living will or in a self-determined death.

According to the federal statistics office of Switzerland, some 742 cases of assisted suicide among Swiss residents were reported in 2014, which was 26 percent rise on 2013 and more than twice the figure in 2009. The vast majority of the cases were because of the suffering from cancer.

Exit's latest consideration of extending its remit to help the health elderly was a response to demands from a committee that included several Exit members aged 70 or older, who said it is currently too difficult for elderly people who are tired of life to get access to assisted suicide.

Founded in 1982, Exit currently only offers services to its members, who must be Swiss or have permanent residency in Switzerland.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 05:56:14|Editor: yan

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LONDON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A fungal disease that had killed wild snakes in North America has been found for the first time in Europe, experts at the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) said Monday.

Experts at the society, based at London Zoo, warned Europe's wild snakes could face a growing threat from the fungal skin disease that has contributed to wild snake deaths in North America.

They base their findings on an international collaborative study, led by ZSL alongside partners including the U.S. Geological Survey. Their new study has been published in the journal Scientific Reports.

The study says the fungus Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, snake fungal disease (SFD) can lead to symptoms including skin lesions, scabs and crusty scales, which can contribute to the death of the infected animal in some cases.

It was first recognized in wild snakes in eastern North America around a decade ago, but prior to the new study, the only wild populations found to be affected had been those in the central and eastern United States.

"Now, an analysis of samples collected from wild snakes in the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic between 2010-2016 has confirmed the presence of the pathogen and SFD in Europe for the first time," said the study.

While the disease poses no known risk to humans or livestock, scientists are calling for further research to fully understand the significance of SFD to Europe's snake populations.
American student Otto Frederick Warmbier (C) arrives for his trial in Pyongyang, capital of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), March 16, 2016. Otto Frederick Warmbier was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor for anti-DPRK crimes, the DPRK Supreme Court announced Wednesday. (Xinhua/Guo Yina)

WASHINGTON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Otto Warmbier, a U.S. college student who was released by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) less than a week ago, died on Monday, his parents said.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m.(1820 GMT)," his parents Fred and Cindy Warmbier said in a statement.

Warmbier's parents thanked the "wonderful professionals" at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and denounced the DPRK for mistreating their son.

Warmbier's parents have told U.S. media that he was medically evacuated from the DPRK in a coma.

The DPRK confirmed his release in a report by the state-run Korean Central News Agency, saying he was sent back home "on humanitarian grounds."

The 22-year-old student from the University of Virginia has been in a state of coma for more than a year after contracting botulism soon after he was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in a trial by the DPRK supreme court on March 16, 2016, according to U.S. local media.

Warmbier was detained by the DPRK authorities at the Pyongyang International Airport on his way back home in January 2016 after he attempted to take a political slogan from a staff-only area in a hotel where he stayed during his tour to the country.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 06:11:26|Editor: yan

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ROME, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Some 930 migrants and refugees have been rescued in several operations in the Mediterranean off the coast of Libya, the Italian Coast Guard coordinating operations said Monday.

"About 800 people were rescued today in eight separate operations," a Coast Guard spokeswoman said.

"Since yesterday our crew had to make several rescues under bad weather conditions. Together with @moas_eu they rescued more than 430 people," tweeted the organization Jugend Rettet, or Youth Rescue in German, in reference to joint efforts with the Malta-based Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS) search-and-rescue foundation.

This comes after the Italian Coast Guard said Sunday that it rescued 730 migrants in the central Mediterranean in seven different operations, with the help of Save the Children NGO and Jugend Rettet.

Also on Monday, several hundred migrants and refugees who were rescued over the weekend disembarked in Italy, including four survivors from a shipwreck that may have claimed over 120 lives, according to Italian news agency ANSA.

"According to testimonies gathered today in Palermo... a shipwreck in the Med may have caused the death of 126 migrants last w/end," tweeted Flavio Di Giacomo, a spokesman from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Over 77,000 people reached Europe by sea and 1,828 have died or gone missing in the attempt as of June 14, according to the IOM's Missing Migrant Project.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 06:16:27|Editor: Liangyu

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RABAT, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Morocco and Tunisia signed here on Monday 13 agreements to reinforce bilateral cooperation.

These agreements were inked during the 19th session of the High Joint Commission of Morocco and Tunisia, which was chaired by Moroccan Prime minister Saadeddine El Othmani and his Tunisian counterpart Youssef Chahed.

The agreements cover agriculture, investment, civil aviation, vocational training, higher education and employment.

Chahed paid a two-day visit to Morocco heading a high-level delegation, which includes the ministers of foreign affairs, labour, commerce and transport.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 06:16:28|Editor: yan

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ALGIERS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Algeria said on Monday that it will not repatriate the African refugees fleeing to Algeria, APS news agency reported.

"Algeria considers displaced people and refugees, whose home countries are in difficult situation, as its guests," Interior Minister Noureddine Bedoui was quoted as saying.

"Those refugees need health, psychological and social care, either individually or collectively," he added.

According to Bedoui, the authorities are closely following the plight of the refugees, especially children and women.

"We are drawing up a national index to accurately count their numbers and situation," the minister said.

Bedoui also said the government is considering providing jobs for the refugees, especially in construction.

Algeria hosts hundreds of thousands of refugees who were forced to flee war in their home countries. The majority of the refugees come from Niger, Chad, Mali, Syria and Libya.
Source: Xinhua| 2017-06-20 06:16:29|Editor: yan

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ALGIERS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Algeria on Monday strongly condemned the "hateful" terrorist attack that targeted Muslims near Finsbury Park mosque in northern London in Britain.

"This vicious terrorist attack against innocent worshipers is clearly aimed at compromising the values of peace, tolerance and diversity," Algerian Foreign Ministry's spokesman Abdelaziz Benali Cherif said in a statement.

"Yet, increased and effective solidarity among communities will certainly counteract the ideology of hatred, and will protect the targeted communities from the threat of division that terrorism is aiming to," he added.

"In the face of this new scene of violence, we offer our condolences to the family of the victim who was killed in this attack and we wish speedy recovery to the wounded," Benali Cherif noted, adding that Algeria stands with the British government and its people in this hard moment."

A 48-year-old white man was driving a rented van as he rammed into a group of pedestrians near the Finsbury Park Mosque, in North London, killing a man and wounding some 10 others, all of whom were worshipers.

This is the third attack in London since March and the second in which a vehicle was used as a lethal weapon.
Four charged for robbing Fr Harvey

The charges against the men, three from East Dry River in Port of Spain and the other from Gonzales, Belmont, were laid by Sgt Rennie Grant after they allegedly gave confession statements on Friday and Saturday.

No identification parades were held as the men who robbed Harvey wore masks.

On Friday afternoon, Harvey identified a watch which was taken from him. Also taken were a mobile phone and $1000. The cash and phone were not recovered.

The suspects are being kept in separate police stations in the Port of Spain division pending their expected court appearance tomorrow.

On Friday, police led by ASP Ajith Persad and Sgt Anthony Williams of the Port of Spain CID, went to East Dry River and Gonzales where they detained the men.

One of the men allegedly told the police that he and his accomplices had robbed everybody already, so is time to rob God. Harvey told Newsday that he was hoping to meet the men but was aware that he could not have any interaction with the detained men.

Last Monday, at about 5 am, Harvey was at the presbytery of the St Martin de Porres Church in Gonzales, where he spent the night to prepare for a seminar, when three men, one armed with a gun, accosted him and robbed him. They threatened to kidnap him for a $50,000 ransom. He was later hog-tied and gagged. The priest managed to free himself and alerted police.
TROPICAL STORM WARNING

In a notice, the TT Meteorological Service said the warning was also in effect for Grenada and its dependencies. This means that these islands will be exposed to tropical storm conditions from tonight into tomorrow. The disturbance is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of 50 to 125 millimetres.

The Met Service said gusty winds and street/flash flooding are likely in areas of heavy showers or thundershowers. The possibility of landslides/landslips also exists. Sea conditions are also anticipated to become very disturbed which will adversely affect marine and coastline interests.

The last time this country was placed under a tropical storm warning was in October 2010 with Tropical Storm Tomas which eventually steered clear of the island.

The storm instead hit Barbados before hitting St Lucia as a category one hurricane.

At about 5 pm, potential tropical cyclone #2 was centred near 7.5 degrees north latitude, 50.4 degree west longitude or about 1200 kilometres east-southeast of Trinidad.

The Met Service explained that a potential tropical cyclone refers to a disturbance that has not yet become a tropical cyclone, but which poses the threat of bringing tropical storm or hurricane conditions to land areas within 48 hours. As of yesterday potential tropical cyclone #2 was moving to the west at about 37 km per hour. The disturbance was expected to continue on west-northwest track over the next 48 hours during which it is forecast to intensify as environmental conditions are conducive for strengthening.

The Met Service advised citizens to follow the directions and advice of their disaster emergency managers.

They also advised citizens to adopt necessary measures to preserve life and property. They said another bulletin will be issued at 12 am today.

Earlier yesterday, meteorologist Kiran Sedoo told Newsday that as of 2 pm, the area of disturbed weather that is associated with a tropical wave was about 800 miles east south east of the Southern Windward Islands. He said the system had become better organised.

Some additional development is possible within the next couple of days, Sedoo said. But the latest information reaching our office right now, the formation chance through the next 48 hours is 70 percent, a bit on the higher side, and the formation chance for the next five days is even higher at 90 percent. The system is forecast to move west northwest near 20 mph towards the Windward Islands.

But we want to underscore it is still very disorganised. It is still at a tropical wave stage of development but regardless of any development that happens later on, we can anticipate local heavy rains and gusty winds with thundershower activity as well. And this should be expected by Monday night into Tuesday morning. Also as a result of the strong winds associated with this system, Sedoo said sea conditions are expected to be exacerbated as well and one can expect the effect of those rising sea conditions from this afternoon. This is expected to persist for the next 24 to 30 hours.

In an earlier bulletin the TT Met Service informed citizens on the deterioration of sea conditions along the islands coastlines in 24 to 30 hours. They said the sea state was forecast to become more agitated today with waves reaching three metres and above along coastlines of TT, especially the northern, eastern and southern coasts. The TT Met Service said these rough seas will continue into tomorrow and will be exacerbated during high tide.

They advised fisher-folk and citizens residing along coastal areas are asked to be on the alert for these expected sea conditions.

Those interested in monitoring the progress of the system can do so by visiting www.metoffice.gov.tt, download the TTMS mobile app (search:TT Met Office) or follow up on Twitter and Facebook.
Cousins shot dead in Matura

According to police reports, 21-year-old Jhavon Roberts of Salibya and 27-year-old Mark Lewis of Valencia were in a white Nissan Teana car which was parked in the driveway of a house when they were shot and killed. Residents heard the loud explosions and contacted the Matura Police Station. Cpl Stafford and PC Louis responded and cordoned off the scene.

When Newsday visited the area yesterday, one man who lives nearby said the gunshots woke him up at about 5 am. He said he heard about six shots but did not look outside. He said it was only as the sun rose and he saw the police he realised that something serious happened.

ASP Gobin, Inspector Ettienne and Cpl Greaux together with officers from the Homicide Bureau North processed the scene and ordered the bodies be removed to the Sangre Grande mortuary. They would then be taken to the Forensics Science Centre, St James on Tuesday. Police say they are exploring several motives. One of those motives was that the two men were followed by someone they had an argument with the night before.

Police said this was the first murder in the area for the year. A similar incident occurred sometime last year.

As news circulated on Facebook about the murders, many expressed their condolences. One relative said, my cousin didnt deserve this. While another person who knew Roberts said it was a sad situation and described him as a high spirited fun going individual.
Fyzabad in the spotlight today as labour unions march

And in a departure from previous years, a number of changes have been made as the traditional walk from Avocat Junction is expected to begin after addresses by representatives from individual unions. Each address is expected to be three-minutes long.

The unions would then lead their members to Charlie King Junction where addresses will be made by the leadership of JTUM, NATUC, FITUN and would include the feature address by JTUM president Ancel Roget.

Several activities are expected to precede the march including the Butler Classics 20K walk which starts at the OWTU Paramount Building, 99A Circular Road, San Fernando headquarters at 5 a.m.

At 5.30 a.m., the Butler Classics 20K run also starts at the same venue. Also at 5.30 a.m., the Butler Classics 5K Juniors Race starts at Jovans Grocery, Harris Village, South Oropouche.

There will also be a wreath laying ceremony at Tubal Uriah Butlers grave site at Apex Cemetery, Fyzabad at 8am.

However, the All Trinidad General Workers Trade Union will host its own celebrations at Rienzi Complex, Couva beginning with a march from the Esperanza Recreation Ground at 10a.m. The union is a member of NATUC.

An address by president Nirvan Maharaj is expected to take place at noon followed by a cultural show.
Kamla: One day not enough to thank fathers

One day is simply not enough to thank fathers for the enormous contributions they, and parents make, in moulding our children.

We look to fathers as role models, counsellors, teachers and caregivers. Their morals and values provide a foundation that helps to shape and develop our children into exceptional individuals and valuable members of our society. She hailed her own father for motivating her to always push for excellence in academics, in my profession and in my personal life, him having made personal sacrifices to provide for his children and afford them every opportunity to succeed, just like other fathers did.

It takes courage and strength to raise a child in the current environment of insecurity and uncertainty in Trinidad and Tobago, and I commend the many fathers who have taken up this duty.

While the concept of the family has evolved, with parents sharing the responsibility of ensuring the emotional, physical and intellectual development of their children, fathers are viewed as sources of strength and tend to take on the role of protectors of their families. Persad-Bissessar hailed those single parents who must play the demanding roles of both father and mother. To the single fathers and single mothers, I applaud your courage, and wish you the strength to continue on your path. She said, There are also many in our country who have not experienced a fathers love, and some who may have never had a father in their lives while growing up. It is my hope that where fathers are absent, others have stepped in and taken on that role, providing care and love to so many of our sons and daughters. Persad-Bissessar asked all to spare a thought for those persons whose fathers have passed away.

To those experiencing sorrow and loss at this time, I wish you Gods grace. Take solace in the fact that your fathers will always live on in the memories you keep.

On this occasion of Fathers Day, I send my fondest wishes to all citizens who have taken up this sacred duty. I wish all fathers and their families health, happiness and every success.
Indarsingh accuses Govt of undermining labour laws

In a Labour Day message yesterday, Indarsingh also criticised governments message issued by Public Administration Minister Maxie Cuffie who said his government was committed to working closely with the trade union movement to ensure that workers rights were always respected and that the gains won over the years would not be callously eroded. Exactly the opposite is happening in the country, Indarsingh said in a media release yesterday.

The principles of good industrial practices and the labour laws of our country are being undermined by this Government. Workers and the labour movement have absolutely nothing to celebrate on Labour Day after 21 months of the Keith Rowley led-Government. Indarsingh said the prime minister as well as the ministers of finance, energy, public utilities and agriculture must tell the labour movement how many more thousands of workers would be forced on the breadline as a result of the closure of the Board of Inland Revenue and Customs and Excise with the coming of the Revenue Authority, the restructuring of Petrotrin, ADB and NAMDEVCO and TSTT in relation to the $255M acquisition of Massy Communications. Indarsingh said Labour Minister Jennifer Baptiste- Primus, a former trade union leader, had totally betrayed the labour movement and workers and had presided over the collapse of a joint memorandum of understanding signed between the PNM and the labour movement prior to the September 2015 general election. Today, the labour movement has withdrawn from the National Tripartite Advisory Council (NATC) and social dialogue is no longer on the Rowley- led administrations radar. He said workers were being pulverised with sustained taxation while there had been three increases in the price of gas and diesel and the restoration of VAT on 7,000 basic food items.

Indarsingh said the property tax as well as a sliding TT dollar have resulted in a total erosion of workers purchasing power resulting in thousands of families having great difficulty in putting bread and butter on the table for their dependants.

I am asking Baptiste- Primus to tell the 25,000-plus workers who have lost their jobs, especially those of Arcelor Mittal and CENTRIN, what has become of her ten-point plan and her announcement of 35,000 Canadian jobs for citizens to drive long haulage trucks in Alberta which will lead to them acquiring Canadian citizenship, he said.
MSJ calls on Caricom to support Maduro

At the last meeting of OAS foreign ministers in Washington, Caricom countries took a united position and defeated the concerted attempt by a minority of OAS member states, led by the United States, to pass a Resolution condemning Venezuela, he related.

The Caricom representatives at that meeting, held on May 31, 2017, countered with a resolution of their own, which called for respectful dialogue on the issue of the conflict in Venezuela. The Caricom Resolution was adopted. However Abdulah said that since that meeting the US has applied almost unprecedented to Caricom countries to abandon their principled position of non-interference in the internal affairs of a state and respect for the sovereignty of all nation states. These principals are accepted international norms, yet are often violated by large, powerful states in their own self-interest.

In this regard, the position taken by Prime Minister Rowley on the removal of the Luis Almagro as Secretary General of the OAS was absolutely the correct one. Abdulah was worried by last weeks visit to this country by a top official of the US State Department  Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemispheric Affairs Francisco Palmieri.

His visit was an open effort to try to get the Trinidad and Tobago government to change its position on Venezuela. Abdulah also condemned a recent letter to the editor in a local newspaper from local US Embassy Charge dAffaires John McIntyre, attacking the elected government of Maduro.

This letter is filled with hypocrisy given the situation in the United Sates where discrimination, racism pervades a system that results in the highest prison population in the world, most inmates being men of colour.

Just two days ago, the US President, who had no difficulty being hosted by the un-elected rulers of Saudi Arabia, went on the offensive against another Caribbean country  Cuba. It is very clear that the US, as in the past and particularly now, under Trump, is intent on implementing the old, imperialist agenda of hegemony over Latin America and the Caribbean. This must not be allowed to happen unchallenged. Abdulah said US Embassies regionally including Guyana had issued similar letters to the editor.

The meeting of the OAS in Mexico starting tomorrow, will therefore be extremely crucial. Caricom governments must not be bullied, coerced or bought by offers of aid etc, to alter their principled position.

The MSJ urged all Caricom governments to stand united at the OAS; and to demand the OAS encourages dialogue between the Venezuela Government and Opposition towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict under the Venezuelan Constitution and with respect for its institutions, and for the idea of non-interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state.
Tokyo Metropolitan Police have arrested a 52-year-old teacher for allegedly assaulting and robbing a female employee of a so-called adelivery healtha service at a business hotel earlier this year after becoming upset with her performance, reports the Sankei Shimbun

On April 16, Toshiyuki Sato, a part-time teacher at Nakano Technical High School, allegedly beat the woman, a foreigner in her 40s, and stole her tote bag containing a total of 260,000 yen inside the hotel, located in the Higashi-Ikebukuro area.

The woman suffered injuries that required two weeks to heal.

Sato, who has been charged with robbery resulting in injury, admits to the allegations. "I got angry with her low degree of professionalism," the suspect told police.

Prior to the incident, Sato had summoned the woman to the room by ordering the service's 240-minute plan, which runs 64,000 yen. After the session, Sato paid the woman 160,000 yen to cover the initial fee, a time extension and tip.

After she placed the money in the bag, he suddenly jumped atop her and held her face down with a pillow.

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Kanagawa Prefectural Police have arrested a 36-year-old man for the alleged cultivation of marijuana, reports TBS News.

On May 23, officers from the Yokohama branch of the Kanto Narcotics Control Department raided the residence of Satoshi Tomita, located in the town of Samukawa, and discovered 24 marijuana plants, dried marijuana and cultivation equipment, including special lighting. Police also found a sheet of paper containing doses of the hallucinogen LSD.

The value of the contraband is estimated at 5 million yen. Tomita was prosecuted this month.

"Since there is a risk of being caught when buying marijuana from traffickers, I cultivated my own crop from seeds taken from previous purchases," the suspect told police.

According to the department, a crackdown on so-called "dangerous drugs" has led to surge in the cultivation of marijuana, especially among members of the younger generation.
UN Secretary General has confirmed Ghassan Salame, a Lebanese scholar and Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs, as the new head of UNSMIL, in replacement of German veteran diplomat Martin Kobler.

Salame is not a new name in the circle of the UN Secretariat. The 66-year old man previously worked with former Ghanaian and Korean UN Secretaries, Kofi Annan and Ban Ki-Moon, as their special advisor on the Middle East.

The former Lebanese minister of culture (2000-2003) is said to have won the trust of all Libyan opposing sides.

He was the 29th candidate approached for the tough UN job in Libya. All other candidates turned down the mission they deemed impossible.

Libya has descended into chaos following removal and death of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011 in a NATO-backed revolution.

The country has fallen in the hands of factions vying for power with the support of foreign states, racing for the countrys oil.

Libya has had two opposed administrations holding up the political process. The UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) in place in Tripoli has been unable to impose itself. The unity government has been rejected by the Eastern government supported by the countrys internationally recognized parliament; the House of Representatives (HoR).

Kobler is expected to quit his position this month. Appointed in November 2015, the German diplomat succeeded in bringing to the negotiation table a group of rivals who signed in Morocco in December the Libya Political Accord (LPA).

The German diplomat has been accused by Libyans of imposing foreign agendas on them and of favoring one side.

Salame, board member of numerous international organizations and institutions, including the International Crisis Group, the International Peace Institute, the Open Society Foundations and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, will fully assume office after the HoR, the GNA and the State Council approve his nomination.
Irans Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif arrived Sunday in the Algerian capital for a two-day visit to discuss crises in the Gulf littoral states, namely the Syrian and Qatar-Gulf disputes.

Shortly after arrival, Zarfif met with his counterpart Abdelkader Messahel, Iranian online media Iran Front Page repots.

The Iranian officials talks with Algerian authorities will focus on the Syrian civil war and the crisis between Qatar and its neighbors, the media said citing Bahram Qassemi, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson.

Regional developments necessitate further solidarity among Muslim countries, and the Islamic Republic of Iran believes that Islamic states should be more united and convergent in countering ill-wishers and those who seek to cause rift [between Muslims],Qassemi said.

It is not clear whether Zarif will meet with ailing President Bouteflika who has been making rare public appearances due to his deteriorating health condition since he suffered a stroke in 2013.

The Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in March cancelled a state-visit to Algiers over Bouteflikas unstable health condition.

Iran supports the Syrian regime and has been engaged in the Syrian crisis on the side of Russia.

On Qatar-Gulf crisis, Tehran has called for dialogue between Gulf nations. Iran sent tons of food stocks to Qatar after Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt imposed air and sea blockades against the tiny gas-rich Gulf state.

Saudi Arabia and its allies on June 5 severed ties with Doha on terrorism funding charges.

Algiers also took a neutral stance on the issue while calling for dialogue.
The army claimed Sunday it neutralized three terrorists and arrested several others in ongoing counter-terrorism operation in the east region of the country.

The army operations in conjunction with other forces in Constantine and Skikda led to the elimination of three terrorists, the capture of three others and eight people who were supporting criminal groups, and the surrender of another terrorist, a defense ministry said in a statement wired by AFP.

Weapons, ammunition and money were seized in the operations, the statement further noted.

The armed forces have launched since June 11 an operation in the region to weed out terrorists.

The region of Constantine has become a flashpoint between security forces and Islamic State group (IS) fighters. In April, a man allegedly linked to IS blew himself up at El Haria, 35 km from Constantine, in a confrontation with security forces. Another terrorist aged 50 was arrested as he also was attempting to detonate his suicide belt.

Police also in February foiled an attempt by an IS militant to blow up a police station in the city of Constantine.

More than 40 terrorists have been killed since the beginning of the year according to army figures.
Head of the Moroccan Government Saad Eddine El Othmani and his Tunisian peer Youssef Chahed chaired on June 19 in Rabat the signing ceremony of 13 cooperation agreements in fields relating to training and economy.

The agreements were signed following the 19th High Joint Moroccan-Tunisian committee, which convened following talks between El Othmani and Chahed on a set of issues of mutual concern, Moroccos official news agency said.

The two officials voiced satisfaction with the level of their bilateral political ties and stressed the need for unleashing the full potential of their economic cooperation to make Moroccan-Tunisian ties a model in the region.

The Tunisian official also held talks with Speakers of the lower and upper houses of the Moroccan parliament, el Habib El Malki and Abdelhakim Benchemach.

Sunday, Chahed and the delegation accompanying him were guest to a Royal Iftar hosted by king Mohammed VI and presided over by Saad Eddine El Othmani.

Tunisia and Morocco are making steps forward to reinforce their bilateral trade despite the paralysis plaguing the Maghreb Union, due largely to Algerias obstinacy to maintain its borders with Morocco closed.

A World Bank report stated that, from 2005 through 2015, the economies of Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia would have grown 34%, 27% and 24%, respectively, if economic integration had been in place in the Maghreb. The Bank estimated that the lack of economic integration cost the region 2% annually in lost growth. Moreover, an integrated region would have attracted more foreign investment than individual markets
France attached utmost importance to its special political, economic and security ties with Morocco as evidenced by the recent visit of the newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, a visit that set the future of ties between the two countries on the track of becoming an axis in global geopolitics, writes Rudroneel Ghosh on the Times of India.

The new France-Morocco relationship is slated to become an important axis of global geopolitics, he said in a comment on the French Presidencys African policy.

The author adds that Paris needs a stable African partner to implement its new African policy, which aims at contributing to Africas economic boom and countering the terrorist threat in the Sahel.

He explained that Morocco stands as an ideal partner for France in its Africa Policy. Today, Morocco is not only the most dynamic economy in North Africa but has also become the second largest investor on the continent, he said.

Ghosh also highlighted King Mohammed VIs vision of pushing South-South cooperation among sister African nations. According to this policy framework, African nations must rely on their own strengths and resources, as well as partner with each other, to forge common success. It is with this principle in mind that Morocco has over recent years boosted its economic engagements with countries of the Sahara and Sahel regions, he explained.

Key to France endeavor to counter the terrorist threat in the Sahel is economic cooperation and common development, he went on to say. It is against this backdrop, that France needs to inject fresh energy into its ties with Morocco.

It is no coincidence that Macron made it clear during a press briefing following talks with King Mohammed VI that his country is looking forward to establishing a new tripartite partnership between Europe, the Maghreb and Africa.
The car that smashed into a police van is seen at Avenue des Champs-Elysees on June 19, 2017, in Paris, France. Photo: Pierre Suu/Getty Images

Police swarmed the Champs-Elysees in Paris, after a vehicle rammed into a police truck and burst into flames in the popular tourist spot. Authorities say they believe the crash was an intentional attack, and the car driven by the assailant may have been packed with explosives. But besides the driver  who police say is now dead  no cops or bystanders suffered any injuries.

#Paris police sources tell Cnn that the car on this picture rammed a police truck #ChampsElysees pic.twitter.com/ju4GWaKU4G  Melissa Bell (@MelissaBellCNN) June 19, 2017

Witnesses reporting seeing the alleged driver on the ground after the crash, which matches initial reports that said the motorist was downed. Police say the suspect was armed, and had been knocked out and gravely injured in an encounter with police. Later, officials said the suspect had died from the the severity of his wounds. The assailant has not been identified; Reuters reports that he was known to authorities.

Large explosion and shots fired on Champs Elysee #Paris looks like on person on ground.. everyone told to run.. pic.twitter.com/NTXVDgYS8J  Andrew Hawley (@aelhawley) June 19, 2017

At least part of the Champs-Elysees has been evacuated with the police operation underway. A bomb squad is casing the area. Frances anti-terrorism prosecutor has officially opened a case, reports the Associated Press. France, and Paris in particular, has witnesses multiple extremist-inspired terror incidents over the past year. Mondays incident could potentially be the second such attack since President Emmanuel Macron won the presidency. In April, days before the election, ISIS took credit after a man opened fire at police on the Champs-Elysees, killing one police officer. In June, an ISIS-inspired terrorist lunged at a police officer near Notre Dame, in Paris, with a hammer, before he was shot and injured by police. ISIS propaganda has encouraged its followers to wage attacks in the west during Ramadan; this marks the last week of the Muslim holy month.

And if a deliberate attack, it would come less than 24 hours after a terror incident in London, in which a 48-year-old white man rammed a van into a crowd of Muslim worshippers leaving a mosque in what early evidence suggests was an extremist right-wing attack. It is the third such deadly assault with a vehicle in London since March, and the fourth major terror incident in the United Kingdom.

This post has been updated throughout.
Paranoid off the Kush. Photo: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Jared Kushner is looking for a new attorney. The search began last month, right after word leaked that Kushner had tried to set up a secret communications channel between the Kremlin and the Trump transition team, the New York Times reports.

At present, Kushner is represented by Jamie Gorelick, who was a partner with Robert Mueller at the powerhouse Washington law firm WilmerHale  until the Justice Department invited Mueller to leave the private sector for a gig as special prosecutor.

In their interviews with the Times, Kushners allies suggested that Gorelicks ties to Mueller had prompted the senior White House adviser to explore other options. Gorelick herself seemed to confirm this rationale in a statement Sunday.

After the appointment of our former partner Robert Mueller as special counsel, we advised Mr. Kushner to obtain the independent advice of a lawyer with appropriate experience as to whether he should continue with us as his counsel, Gorelick wrote.

But theres reason to think Kushners search is about more than his current lawyers theoretical conflict of interest. Gorelick is a respected attorney who has shepherded many a client through government investigations. But she isnt known as a trial lawyer. Which is to say: Shes an excellent choice for someone whos just looking to get through a bunch of interviews with investigations without making any big mistakes. If youve already made a mistake big enough to potentially land you in a courtroom, however, youre gonna want a mercenary with more experience on that terrain.

And Kushner appears to want the latter.

[P]eople within Mr. Kushners circle recently reached out to some courtroom litigators about possibly joining his legal team. Among the lawyers contacted, one person said, was Abbe D. Lowell, a prominent trial lawyer whose previous clients include Jack Abramoff, the powerful Republican lobbyist, in a corruption scandal that shook Washington in 2005. Mr. Lowell is currently defending Senator Robert Menendez, Democrat of New Jersey, against federal corruption charges.

Last week, the Washington Post reported that Mueller is investigating Kushners finances and business dealings, as part of his probe into alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian government.

At a December meeting with Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak, Kushner reportedly proposed setting up a secure line of communication between Trump officials and the Kremlin  secure, specifically, from the prying eyes of Americas intelligence agencies. That suggestion proved too forward for the Russians.

Nonetheless, Kislyak set up a subsequent meeting between Kushner and Sergey Gorkov  a confidante of Vladimir Putin and head of the state-owned Vnesheconombank.

The White House has claimed that Kushners meeting with Gorkov was a diplomatic one.

But in March, Gorkov insisted that the meeting was a business affair, saying Trumps son-in-law had met him in his capacity as the head of Kushner Companies.

Investigators are likely concerned that both men were telling the truth: At the time of their meeting, Kushners company was seeking financing for its embattled $1.8 billion purchase of 666 Fifth Avenue, while Gorkovs bank was seeking relief from U.S. sanctions.

Perhaps, diplomacy is serious business.
An optimistic President Macron shakes hands with people in the crowd as he leaves his home on the eve of the second round of the French parliamentary elections. Photo: Chesnot/Getty Images

President Emmanuel Macron completed his astonishing rise to power on Sunday when the party he founded about a year ago, La Republique En Marche, won a clear majority in the second and final round of parliamentary elections. En Marche and its allies won 350 seats out of 577 in the National Assembly.

Like Macron, who took office a month ago, many En Marche candidates elected to the lower house of Parliament on Sunday have never held elected office before. Half of the partys candidates were women and a large number were ethnic minorities.

For the first time under the Fifth Republic, the National Assembly will be profoundly renewed, more diverse, younger, with many professional, community and political backgrounds, Catherine Barbaroux, the interim president of En Marche, said in a speech following Sundays vote.

The success of Macrons centrist third way is a sizmic shift in French politics, as control of the French government has alternated between the Socialist and conservative parties for decades. The center-right Republicans and their allies came in second with 135 seats, and the center-left Socialists took 49 seats.

While the Socialists won both the presidential and parliamentary elections in 2012, Sundays election gave them their lowest tally ever. Jean-Christophe Cambadelis announced after the vote that he will resign as head of the Socialist Party. Tonight, the collapse of the Socialist Party is beyond doubt. The president of the Republic has all the powers, he said.

Marine Le Pen, the far-right leader who lost to Macron in the presidential race, won a seat in the National Assembly for the first time. While at one point analysts suggested her National Front party might win as many as 50 seats, it took only eight.

It wasnt all good news for Macron. Turnout was around 43 percent, a record low. Its not clear if that means voters arent very enthusiastic about Macrons pro-European Union, pro-business reforms, or that they didnt think he needed their help. Regardless, his opponents seized on that point to undercut his mandate.

Abstention has broken new records, and mistrust of the republic has reached a peak, Le Pen said. This abstention considerably weakens the legitimacy of the new National Assembly.

There was still a great deal of enthusiasm coming from government officials in Germany. During a meeting with Macron last month, Chancellor Angela Merkel said they had agreed to develop a common road map to strengthen the European Union. Per the AP:

Chancellor Angela Merkels chief of staff, Peter Altmaier, wrote Sunday on Twitter that France now has a strong president with a strong majority in parliament. Altmaier added: Good for Europe and for Germany!

The German Foreign Ministry quoted Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel on Twitter as saying that the road is clear for reforms, in France and in Europe.

A Merkel spokesperson said she congratulates Macron on his clear parliamentary majority and looks forward to continuing good cooperation for Germany, France, Europe.
After a week of intense controversy, on Sunday night NBC aired Megyn Kellys interview with far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones  or some version of it. With many complaining that Kelly should not have given a platform to the Infowars host who claims, among other virulent lies, that the massacre of children at Sandy Hook Elementary School was a hoax, NBC reportedly overhauled the piece to make it tougher on Jones. The resulting 20-minute piece offered a heavily edited overview of who Jones is, and the justification for featuring him on Sunday Night With Megyn Kelly.

Some thought we shouldnt broadcast this interview because his baseless allegations arent just offensive, theyre dangerous, Kelly said at the beginning of the segment. But heres the thing: Alex Jones isnt going away.

Joness claims about Sandy Hook generated the most intense controversy, with families of the victims calling on NBC to drop the segment, and NBC Connecticut opting not to air the program. Kelly reached out to the families of Sandy Hook victims in recent days, and Neil Heslin, whose son died in the shooting, agreed to be interviewed.

Jones repeatedly dodged Kellys questions, and additions were made to the broadcast to make it clear that his claims have no basis in fact. Variety said this made the interview segments seem stilted, as if they were carefully extracted out of broader conversation to emphasize the moments when Kelly urged Jones to disavow his baseless claims.

I tend to believe that children probably did die there, he said regarding Sandy Hook. But then you look at all the other evidence on the other side. Kelly countered, in a voice-over, Of course, there is no evidence on the other side.

In the L.A. Times, Lorraine Ali questioned why Kelly didnt push Jones harder in the actual interview:

Jones rambled out a senseless, word salad of an answer that cleared up absolutely nothing. I got home at, like, 6, heard about it. The ages of the victims werent even known. But they were saying it was jihadi. And I said, How crazy is it that liberal trendies are now the victims? And then I start going and looking. Of course, if theres kids being killed by Muslims, Im not saying that its their fault. Of course, if kids are the victims, Im not saying its their fault.

And she left it at that. No follow-up. Just this narrated segue from Kelly: That pattern, reckless accusations followed by equivocation and excuses, is classic Alex Jones. Kelly too was aware that her pointed questions werent going to get answers. So, really, what was she hoping to achieve?

The Washington Posts Hank Stuever said it appears the controversy spurred NBC and Kelly to put together a better segment:

Unsettling as it may be to have to aired it at all, Kellys 20-minute segment on Jones and his influence (his fans include President Trump) seemed to have benefited greatly from the pre-criticism and brouhaha that swirled around it last week (one NBC-owned station declined to air it; an advertiser backed out), assuring that Kelly and her producers delivered a tightly edited, firmly reported, no-nonsense story about someone who tells dangerous lies. Kellys instincts here arent wrong: Viewers who dont want to hear a single word from Jones need to know more about him and the people who believe him.

Some, like Politicos Jack Shafer, felt Kelly did a decent job of exposing the Infowars host:

Short of waterboarding him, I dont know what more Kelly could have done to expose Jones dark methods. She was needlessly defensive in her presentation, acknowledging that some people thought the segment shouldnt have been broadcast because it would increase Jones profile. But as she pointed out, Jones isnt going away, and his audience is growing. Whats more, Jones has the ear of our president, and spurious things InfoWars says have a way of getting repeated by his phone-pal President Donald Trump, who has saluted the InfoWars host in the past. She didnt take Jones down, but really, who could have in a newsmagazine segment? But she did do a credible job of exposing his lies. Give her a B+.

#Megyn Kelly did more to expose the real Alex Jones and than anyone else on TV. Solid journalism.  Andrea Mitchell (@mitchellreports) June 18, 2017

Watching @megynkelly interview with Alex Jones, I'm even more convinced that her piece wasn't just ok to do, but important journalism.  Dan Abrams (@danabrams) June 18, 2017

The Hollywood Reporters Frank Scheck countered that exposing a charlatan like Jones isnt a very difficult task:

[] it really doesnt take heavy lifting to vilify someone who recently said that the Manchester bombing victims, many of whom were children, were a bunch of liberal trendies. [] Ultimately, the segment covered all the right bases, albeit frustratingly briefly. But it needed to be far more hard-hitting. This wasnt exactly reminiscent of Edward R. Murrow taking down Joseph McCarthy. But then again, McCarthy was a truly fearsome figure. Jones is just an evil rodeo clown whose fifteen minutes will soon be up.

Varietys Sonia Saraiya said the segment failed to produce any new information about Jones and actually exposed Kelly as a weak interviewer:

The decision to go after Jones actually put the spotlight on the fact that Kelly, despite the reputation she built at Fox News, is not a great interviewer. She also struggled during her much-hyped sit-down with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday Nights debut a few weeks ago. Her talent is less about extracting information from intriguing people and more attuned to leading the audience to a sense of vague unease about her subjects. As evidenced by the segment that immediately followed Jones  a pearl-clutching take on the phenomenon of (legal) delivery services for (legal) marijuana  Kellys primary mode is manufacturing and expressing concern, without much thought as to where that concern comes from and why it matters. That reluctance to dig deeper is what doomed the Jones segment. It is hard to not feel that Kelly has just emboldened Jones  an ideologue who will use any angle to advance his pernicious narrative.

Sure enough, Jones, who previously released secretly recorded audio of Kelly promising the story wouldnt be some gotcha hit piece, complained in a livestreamed video on Sunday night that Kelly and the rest of the mainstream media are misrepresenting his views. Nevertheless, he popped a bottle of champagne and declared the interview a big win.
Photo: Sandy Huffaker/AFP/Getty Images

The Democracy Fund Voter Study Group has a new survey of the electorate that explodes many of the myths that we believe about American politics. Lee Drutman has a fascinating report delving into the data. I want to highlight a few of the most interesting conclusions in the survey.

1. The Democratic Party is not really divided on economics.

You think the Bernie Sanders movement was about socialism? Not really. Sanders voters have the same beliefs about economic equality and government intervention as Hillary Clinton supporters. On the importance of Social Security and Medicare, Sanders voters actually have more conservative views:

Beliefs are arrayed from left (most liberal) to right (most conservative.)

Where they mainly differ is on international trade and the question of whether politics is a rigged game. The ideological content of Sanderss platform is not what drew voters. It was, instead, his counter-positioning to Clinton as a clean, uncorrupted outsider.

2. Fiscal conservativesocial liberals are overrepresented.

The study breaks down the beliefs of voters in both parties by income. The parties tend to cohere pretty tightly  rich Republicans are much closer to poor Republicans than either is to the Democrats; and rich Democrats and poor Democrats share more in common than either does with Republicans.

Still, there are important differences. The richest members of both parties have more economically conservative and socially liberal views than the poorest members. That gives them disproportionate influence over their agendas and priorities.

3. Libertarians dont exist.

Well, obviously, they exist  just not in any remotely large enough numbers to form a constituency. Its not just hard-core libertarians who are absent. Even vaguely libertarian-ish voters are functionally nonexistent.

The study breaks down voters into four quadrants, defined by both social and economic liberalism. But virtually everybody falls into three quadrants: socially liberal/economically liberal; socially conservative/economically conservative; and socially conservative/economically liberal. The fourth quadrant, socially liberal/economically conservative, is empty:

The libertarian movement has a lot of money and hard-core activist and intellectual support, which allows it to punch way above its weight. Libertarian organs like Reason regularly churn out polemics and studies designed to show that libertarianism is a huge new trend and the wave of the future. Sometimes, mainstream news organizations buy what theyre selling. But the truth is that the underrepresented cohort in American politics is the opposite of libertarians: people with right-wing social views who support big government on the economy.

4. Trump won by dominating with populists.

Republicans always need to do reasonably well with populists, which is why theres always a tension between the pro-government leanings of a large number of their voters and the anti-government tilt of the party agenda. The key to Trumps success was to win more populists than Mitt Romney had managed. The issues where 2012 Obama voters who defected to Trump diverge from the ones who stayed and voted for Clinton are overwhelmingly related to race and identity.

As Drutman notes, Among populists who voted for Obama, Clinton did terribly. She held onto only 6 in 10 of these voters (59 percent). Trump picked up 27 percent of these voters, and the remaining 14 percent didnt vote for either major party candidate. What makes this result fascinating is that, in 2008, Clinton had positioned herself as the candidate of the white working class and she dominated the white socially conservative wing of her party. But she lost that identity so thoroughly that she couldnt even replicate the performance of a president who had become synonymous with elite social liberalism.

Every election is different. But to the extent that 2016 has an ideological lesson for Democrats, it is that the subject the party is currently debating within itself  whether or how far left to move on economics  is irrelevant to its electoral predicament. The issue space where Clinton lost voters who had supported Obama was in the array of social-identity questions, revolving around patriotism and identity.

They may not need to solve this problem  Trumps failures may well solve it for them. And to some extent, moral commitments to social justice may preclude the party from moving to the center on some or all of their social policies. But to the extent Democrats want to optimize their party profile to make Trump a one-term president, the social issues are where they need to focus.
Looks like SCOTUS will weigh in again on the murky topic of whether legislatures can go too far in gerrymandering districts to maximize partisan advantage. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

For those (mostly but not exclusive Democrats) hoping that the U.S. Supreme Court would establish a clear limit on gerrymandering of congressional and state legislative districts for partisan purposes, the Court today gaveth and taketh away. It agreed to review a divided three-judge district court ruling in Gill v. Whitford holding that Wisconsins Republican-drawn state legislative map involves a partisan gerrymander so extreme that it violates the First Amendments guarantee of a right to freedom of association. But in a 54 decision, it also put on hold that same lower courts instruction to the Wisconsin legislature to redraw the suspect maps before the 2018 elections.

The grant of review should lead  though probably not until well into 2018  to fresh SCOTUS guidance on this complicated but very significant issue. Gerrymandering on racial grounds has long been understood as potentially unconstitutional (indeed, Republican legislators have often defended racially suspect gerrymanders as merely partisan).

But while the Court in 2004 ruled in a 54 decision that in theory partisan gerrymanders could be unconstitutional, the Justice who provided the fifth vote, Anthony Kennedy, held that there was not yet any practical standard for measuring and adjudicating what represented too much partisanship in gerrymandering. The lower court in the Wisconsin case used a new measurement designed by academicians called an efficiency gap to measure the impact of gerrymandering on the natural impact of elections. Thus one key thing SCOTUS might resolve is whether thats enough to make policing of partisan gerrymandering practicable.

The grant of Wisconsins petition to leave the current districts in place until SCOTUS rules on the constitutional law of the case probably means the decision will not occur in time to affect the 2018 elections there or in any other states. But it might also provide a solid tip for which way the wind is blowing within the Court in terms of the underlying issues, since this sort of injunctive relief is typically based in part on likelihood to succeed on the merits. Since Kennedy will assume his usual position as the swing justice, however, it is worth remember that he voted to halt same-sex marriages in two states in 2014 before writing the landmark opinion legalizing them nationally  in Obergefell v. Hodges  a few months later. Its entirely possible that Kennedy does not know what he will decide once the case is heard.

There are other gerrymandering cases awaiting Supreme Court review, including one from North Carolina in which the Court earlier this month upheld a lower-court finding of a racial gerrymander but overturned an order for an immediate remapping. It is unclear whether all these cases will be consolidated by the court. Even if all the issues are not sorted out in time to affect the current maps being used by various states in 2018 and 2020, the current litigation could have a big impact on what happens during the next round of redistricting, which will begin after the 2020 elections.
KATHMANDU - Nepal has proposed that the China-initiated Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) could issue currency bonds in Nepal to raise funds domestically to finance infrastructure projects in the country, a senior official of Nepal's Finance Ministry said.

Nepal has already permitted International Finance Corporation (IFC), a private sector financing wing of the World Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB) to issue Nepali Rupee bonds, but they are yet to issue such bonds.

Yug Raj Pandey, under secretary at Nepal's Finance Ministry, told Xinhua on Sunday that Nepal had asked AIIB to issue local currency bonds in Nepal to collect financial resources domestically during its second meeting of the board of governors in South Korea,

Pandey is one of the delegation members of Nepal led by Finance Minister Gyanendra Bahadur Karki in the AIIB meeting which was held on June 17-18.

According to a press release issued by Nepali Finance Ministry on Sunday, Karki had sought increased investment in Nepal from AIIB, considering Nepal's need for investment of around 9-10 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in infrastructure sector.

Currently, Nepal has been investing just around four percent of the GDP in the sector. Minister Karki had sought investment in the areas of transport, electricity, urban development, drinking water, aviation and information and communication technologies.
An F/A-18 fighter jet like the one that engaged the Syrian warplane on Sunday. Photo: Toshifumi Kitamura/AFP/Getty Images

A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane on Sunday, marking an unprecedented new escalation in the conflict between the U.S. and its allies and the Assad regime in Syria. U.S. Central Command told Reuters that the plane was shot down in collective self-defense of coalition partnered forces after it had targeted U.S.-backed forces near the ISIS-held city of Raqqa. The Syrian army, meanwhile, claims the fighter jet was conducting a mission against ISIS militants. Either way, its the first time the U.S. has shot down a Syrian aircraft since the beginning of the countrys civil war in 2011, and the first time it has shot down a manned warplane anywhere in more than a decade.

The Pentagon says that the incident followed an earlier skirmish between U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (S.D.F.) and Syrian-government-backed forces near Raqqa in North Syria. The U.S. claims that the Syrian forces, including regime aircraft, attacked the S.D.F fighters and then did not respond to the U.S. militarys attempts to halt the attack through a de-confliction channel; the attack didnt stop until U.S. warplanes buzzed the area in a show of force. A few hours later, a Syrian SU-22 fighter jet attacked the same S.D.F. fighters and was quickly shot down by an American F/A-18, reportedly killing the Syrian pilot. The U.S. claims the action was justified under the rules of engagement and because it was in self-defense of U.S.-backed forces, but it also made clear that the U.S. will now be willing to target any regime aircraft that threatens U.S. allies on the ground.

The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat, the Pentagon warned in a statement following the incident. It is not clear if the U.S. would also be willing to shoot down a Russian warplane targeting U.S.-backed forces, however.

The Syrian military, meanwhile, says the attack indicates that the U.S. supports ISIS.

Members of the Syrian Democratic Forces walk in a neighborhood on the eastern front of ISISs Syrian bastion of Raqqa after seizing control of the area. Photo: Delil Souleiman/AFP/Getty Images

The Washington Post points out that the U.S. has already been escalating its airstrikes in northern Syria as U.S.-backed forces have surrounded the ISIS-held city of Raqqa. Tensions have also been high near the southern Syrian town of At Tanf, on the Syrian side of the Iraq border. Despite the town currently being home to a U.S. Special Operations training outpost, and warnings from the U.S. military, Syrian government forces and Iran-backed Shiite militias have been moving into the area around the town, and a few weeks ago, a U.S. warplane shot down an unmanned pro-Syrian drone which had dropped a dud munition near U.S.-backed fighters close to the town. The U.S. is now planning to move mobile missile launchers into southern Syria, as well.

Thus, even before Sundays altercation, there has been growing concern over where the situation in Syria is headed next. Indeed, two Middle East security analysts at the Center for a New American Security, Ilan Goldenberg and Nicholas A. Heras, recently argued convincingly in The Atlantic that the escalating multinational conflict in Syria, lacking a real strategy from the White House, could quickly spiral out of control and possibly even lead to war with Iran:

Three times in the last month, the U.S. military has come into direct conflict with the combined forces of the Assad regime, Iran-supported Shiite militias, Hezbollah, and possibly even Irans elite Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. The clashes have reportedly resulted in the deaths of a small number of pro-regime forces, and are much more strategically important than the much-ballyhooed U.S. air strike on the al-Shayrat airfield back in April in response to the Assad regimes use of chemical weapons.

Yet, even as Washington potentially stumbles into war, there has been little public explanation from the highest levels of government, scant media coverage, and virtually no congressional oversight. This is no way to handle what could potentially mutate into a vastly expanded American military intervention in the Middle East.

They go on to explain that most players in Syria expect ISIS to soon be defeated, which means there will be a scramble to control or obtain influence over post-ISIS eastern Syria. That power vacuum could potentially set up a clash between pro-Assad forces  backed by Iran and Russia and Kurdish and Syrian rebel forces backed by the U.S. and other Western powers.

Iran made some news of its own on Sunday as well when it announced that it had launched multiple medium-range ballistic missiles at ISIS targets in Syrias Deir Ezzour province from bases in western Iran. The cross-border strike was in retaliation for the recent ISIS-claimed terrorist attacks in Tehran on June 7, according to Irans Revolutionary Guards force. The strikes also mark an significant escalation in Irans involvement in the conflict as it was the first time they have launched direct attacks on Syria from inside Iran. Irans previous involvement in the Syrian civil war has been to supply the Assad regime with military advisors and volunteer fighters, as well as provide air bases for use by Russian aircraft.
Police guard a street in the Finsbury Park area of north London on June 19, 2017. Photo: DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS/AFP/Getty Images

A van ran into a crowd of pedestrians outside a London mosque early on Monday, injuring ten people. One man died at the scene, but its unclear if his death was related to the attack. This is being treated as a terrorist attack, said Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu.

All of the victims were Muslim, and witnesses said the driver shouted that he wanted to kill Muslims. Bystanders detained him for about 20 minutes until police arrived and placed the 48-year-old white man under arrest. Video, filmed at the scene, shows the crowd angrily shouting at the alleged attacker as police handcuff him and navigate him through the crowd toward a police van. Once inside the police vehicle, the suspect appears to wave at the crowd:

Abdulrahman Aidroos said that just before the attack, he and his friends were helping an elderly man who had collapsed in the street, according to the Washington Post. Suddenly, they they saw a man in a van driving straight into us. Aidroos managed to escape unharmed, and he and his friends tackled the driver.

When he was running, he said I want to kill more people, I want to kill more Muslims, he said.

When I got him on the ground, I said, Why are you doing this? He said, I want to kill more Muslims.

The elderly man later died, but police said it was too early to tell if his death was caused by the attack. Eight people were hospitalized and two other were treated at the scene.

Basu said that police were keeping an open mind on what prompted the attack, but given the methodology and given what was occurring and whats happened, the tragic incidents across the country, this had all the hallmarks of a terrorist incident.

Police say they believe the suspect, who has not been named, acted alone. He was not known to authorities among those active in the far right, said security minister Ben Wallace. There are no ifs, no buts, Wallace explained. This is a terrorist attack in the same way the bomber of Manchester blew up many people only recently. This is a pure terrorist attack designed to inflict terror and fear and also hurt people in some twisted cause.

Metropolitan police chief Cressida Dick described the incident as quite clearly a targeted attack on Muslims. She said the authorities would step up protections of Muslim communities in the coming weeks, especially as worshippers are out in the last week of Ramadan.

Since March there have been two attacks in London in which vehicles were used as a weapon. Britains terror alert was at severe, which means an attack is highly likely.

Ibn Omar, in his early 20s, has been coming to #FinsburyPark his whole life and says it was "pandemonium" and saw bodies on ground pic.twitter.com/fyni2mdaS1  Aisha S Gani (@aishagani) June 19, 2017

The incident occurred shortly after midnight as hundreds of worshippers were leaving the Finsbury Park mosque in northern London following prayers for the holy month of Ramadan.

Saeed Hasm, another witness, told NBC News that the driver came up on the sidewalk, hitting three people, then he advanced and ran over several more pedestrians.

Hasm said when he and several other people tried to pull the man from the van he started fighting with us and spitting with us. He said the driver was strong and it took more than five men to restrain him until the police arrived.

People were very angry, he said. They were smashing bottles, they wanted to hit him but we told them, Dont do it, dont do it. Let the police come.

This is the van which ploughed into pedestrians near a mosque in north London. One man has died #FinsburyPark https://t.co/DLLTdtuJQr pic.twitter.com/VZI4TnWggE  ITV News (@itvnews) June 19, 2017

The Finsbury Park neighborhood is home to many immigrants and has a significant Muslim population. CNN notes that at least four mosques are located on Seven Sisters Road, where the attack took place.

The Finsbury Park Mosque, which opened in 1994, was once notorious for extremism. Zacarias Moussaoui, who was convicted of conspiring to kill Americans in the September 11th attacks, and Richard Reid, who tried to blow up a commercial jet with a shoe bomb, once worshiped there. Two years ago Abu Hamza, who was the mosque imam from 1997 to 2003, was extradited to the United States and sentenced to live in prison on 11 terror-related charges.

The mosque was shut down after police conducted an anti-terrorism raid in 2003, but it reopened under a new board of trustees in 2005. Since then, its rebuilt itself as a major house of worship in the area, and its leaders work to promote interfaith dialogue. During the U.S. presidential election, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn invited Donald Trump to Finsbury Park Mosque, which is in his district, to show him how multicultural, multifaith Britain operates.

Corbyn said that he was shocked by Mondays incident, and Prime Minister Theresa May said: All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene.

I'm totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight. pic.twitter.com/1ffKijNs73  Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) June 19, 2017

Mohammed Kozbar, Finsbury Park Mosques chair, expressed sympathy for the victims as well:

Our thoughts and prayers with those who got injured and effected by this cowardly attack in Finsbury Park area, many casualties in the floor  Mohammed Kozbar (@KozbarM) June 19, 2017

Sadiq Khan, Londons first Muslim mayor, said the incident was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

Thoughts & prayers with all those affected by the horrific terrorist attack on innocent people in #FinsburyPark. https://t.co/mbBCS9Gaad pic.twitter.com/Fvhl3DOAV4  Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) June 19, 2017

British politicians descended on the mosque Monday, including Prime Minister Theresa May, who was reportedly heckled by bystanders, with some lobbing insults at her slow response to the Grenfell Tower fire.

This post has been updated throughout.
The devious Senate GOP leader prefers to operate in the dark, and its giving Democrats as well as Republicans fits. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call,Inc.

The Senate could vote on health-care legislation and clear the decks for progress on tax cuts and other issues before July 4. Or it could be forced to cancel its monthlong August recess as intra-party divisions over the American Health Care Act (not to mention the big items standing behind it in the queue) drag on. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats might decide to bring the Senate as close to a standstill as its minority position allows them in a protest against the unprecedented secrecy with which Senate Republicans are proceeding. Or they could decide to get out of the way and let the GOPs divisions and unpopular policy impulses occupy the entire national spotlight.

Who knows which way the Senate scheduling winds will blow? Only one man: Mitch McConnell. He is responsible for the extreme secrecy of the health-care legislative process, which is reportedly designed to reduce pressure on GOP senators from affected interest and advocacy groups, but is rapidly becoming a public-relations problem in itself. It has, on the other hand, produced the ancillary benefit for Republicans of making it hard for their Democratic colleagues to plan their own activities. Some suspect the talk of canceled recesses and a legislative logjam actually disguise a McConnell plan to spring a fully formed health-care bill on a stunned Senate very soon. And indeed: both the Wall Street Journal and Politico are reporting today that the Senate GOP is preparing to hold votes next week if the votes are there and all sorts of difficult issues are worked out (which strikes me as one of those If I had some ham, Id make a ham sandwich, if I had some bread propositions).

Policy differences aside, there are some procedural obstacles to quick Senate action on health care, most notably the need for a CBO score (supposedly on its way) and Senate parliamentarian rulings. But Democrats will at least temporarily test the political impact of adding to those obstacles, beginning tonight and tomorrow, according to a Senate aide who spoke to HuffPosts Sam Stein. They plan to object to unanimous consent requests, make motions (which wont pass) to compel committee consideration of health-care legislation; and make extended speeches both condemning all the secrecy and contrasting it with how Democrats handled the Affordable Care Act. They may well be considering more extended and more controversial extended action like holding up committee hearings on other issues or delaying confirmations.

In the end, Senate Democrats dont have the votes to do more than make noise. Senators rarely toss off the partisan yoke on procedural matters, so even Republicans who might wind up voting against the ultimate legislation are not going to abandon McConnell on whatever devious strategy he is pursuing for getting the bill to the floor. In the end I suspect hell maintain the suspense until he has 50 votes and is reasonably sure he can spin the bill as less mean than the House bill, to use the presidents term. At that point he could move very fast, and perhaps when the country is absorbed with something else. That could be next week as we are hearing today, or it could be in the Dog Days of August if not later.
Donald Trump and Juan Carlos Varela met on Monday at the White House. Photo: Pool/Getty Images

In the latest episode of Donald Trumps Awkward Handshakes, Trump sat down with Juan Carlos Varela, Panamas president, today at the White House. While the two leaders posed for photos and began to shake hands, Trump made sure to remind Varela just how well the Panama Canal has been working. (Brief history lesson: The Panama Canal was completed in 1914.) I think we did a good job building it, Trump said. 100 years ago, retorted Varela, a man with a plan, and a canal, from Panama.

Cant decide where this one ranks on the scale of dumb Trump shakes. Somewhere between Trump gripping Shinzo Abes hand for eternity and Justin Trudeau staring blankly at Trumps outstretched palm.
Hmmm I wonder why? Oh right it's bc it's an attack on muslims.

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He can't exploit it for his gain so it's nonexistent for him.

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par the course for his racist ass

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The imam and others at the scene deserve so much praise for how they handled the situation. Copying this from an article...



The imam of Muslim Welfare House said a passing police van was flagged down.

Mohammed Mahmoud told reporters: "We told them the situation - there's a man, he's restrained, he mowed down a group of people with his van and there is a mob attempting to hurt him and if you don't take him then, God forbid, he might be seriously hurt.

"We pushed people away from him until he was safely taken by police."

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Wolf Blitzer on CNN: "Normally we would bring you the WH briefing... we're not allowed to show it"  Alana Abramson (@aabramson) June 19, 2017



The White House briefing room is filled but no cameras or audio are allowed for the breifing.  AprilDRyan (@AprilDRyan) June 19, 2017



.@PressSec now briefing reporters but it's off-camera. The last on-camera WH press briefing was last Monday. pic.twitter.com/OTwunOXGaq  Mark Knoller (@markknoller) June 19, 2017

Scary how everything is done in the dark with this admin - from the press briefings to Trumpcare. We continue to move further away from a democracy.

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democracy is dead

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Democracy Dies in Darkness.

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Everyone made fun of them for the "emo-ness" of this quote, but I feel like this just further vindicates them. The Repubs are doing everything in the dark because they know if they shed light on it people will fight them. How corrupt can you be?

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I can't believe there isn't a bigger issue being made of this, jesus.

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How scary.

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I guarantee this is from Spicey putting his foot in his mouth and lying all the time. Now with no proof to back it up it becomes reporter said vs spicey said and the wh can deny he said it.

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It's SO important that Ossoff wins tomorrow. I can't stress it enough.

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ia i sooooooo hope he wins

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I'm praying for him, we need this win.

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I'm so stressed about that election.

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Me too. One poll showed him leading +7 but all other polls show him leading with a small margin.

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I've kind of lost hope honestly. They all hate Handel there but she's not a libruhl so this gun attack will push more Republicans to vote. It never fails. I'm hoping but I'm bracing myself for the worst.

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Blistering statement from McCain: "Six months into the new administration, it still has not delivered a strategy" for Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/20adE0m5d4  Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) June 19, 2017

it's almost as if they aren't competent!

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Were his eyebrows furrowed when he released this statement?

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This would actually matter if McCain would pull his head out of Trump's ass. But as is, it's just a way of looking like he cares without doing anything.

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People who don't follow him fall for it too. My mom used to read stuff McCain said in the news and tell me about it like it was a good thing that a Republican was saying this shit, and I had to explain to her that it's irrelevant because he's useless and doesn't actually DO anything.

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TL,DR; did this statement emphasize his ~concern~ over a lack of strategy?

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He's very upset at President Comey.

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Yeah he's adding another high power attorney to his team

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ew i can go with not hearing him like before

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holy crap he really does sound like an 8 year old

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he literally sounds simple

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He looks and sounds like he eats the hair off dolls.

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oh man, he sounds exactly how i imagined

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Ew what the fuck I didn't expect this to be his voice. Between this, Trump's nasally congested tone, and Ivanka's phone sex operator voice I can't imagine what they'd sound like all together discussing peace in the middle east.

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i'm always slightly shocked when i see his cold, emotionless death-mask of a face actually move. it just doesn't look natural.

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Also, with his voice he reminds me of ventriloquist dummy.

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He has the look and the sound of someone who cries after sex.

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simplistic goob. he doesnt even sound genuine either.

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Ew that was ugly

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He sounds like teenage David Sedaris (sorry, David)

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I was about to click and was like I bet he has a high pitched voice and sure enough it's a hell of a lot higher than I thought it would be

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he looks like he's wearing a mask

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I refused to listen on the off chance that he doesn't sound like Gilbert Gottfried.

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i lasted 2 seconds. he sounds like a massive douche

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Shit was not expecting him to have that little boy voice.

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Sending love and prayers to the victims in #FinsburyPark London. We must stand united against hatred and extremism in all it's ugly forms.  Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 19, 2017

talk is cheap

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Say this to your father you Tory burch ripoff

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Complicit, hypocritical, and she can't spell.

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she's so fucking shameless.

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Remember when your dad tried serving up a Muslim ban.



She's the fucking worse with zero self-awareness.

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I read this in that creepy soft voice of hers and got chills.

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I'm sure the victims will be overwhelmed with gratitude by your fake, worthless prayers. Why don't you go back to your complicity and lack of self-awareness, you insipid cow.



Also-"all ITS ugly forms"! One of my biggest grammar pet peeves.

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I can't stand her ass.

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I went to public school, dropped out of college and I still know the difference between "its" vs. "it's."

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she's lived in a bubble her whole life and it shows more and more with every tweet

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Bitch your dad's best friend is Steve Bannon

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She should kill her father then

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Why are we calling trump "45"?

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His presidency should come with an asterisk

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Good point. He should be known as 45*

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Because "little bitch" takes too much time to type out

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When I read this comment I expected it to be that one Twitter user. What a surprise.

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Because you just KNOW he has a google news alert for his name, and he doesn't need even a tiny bit more publicity

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Four direct engagements w Syria/Iran/Russia in 45 days. Trump is quietly starting a new war that Congress has not declared. Red alert.  https://t.co/D4MKPLXFTS  Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) June 19, 2017

this is scary

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b-b-but covfefe! His funny hair! Late-night toilet tweets! Look at the jingly keys, America!

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basically about to be world war III



this is what the trump admin wants; chaos, war, and absolute power

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Someone is trying to wag the dog.

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I went to a pop culture/politics panel discussion comedy show last night that I haven't attended since before the election, and now I remember why I don't go anymore. So many of the clips they discussed revolved around Tr*mp and his band of hellions and it was just depressing. Comedy shows are usually my escape from the hell that is politics today. Of course, I knew what I was getting into - I went because I liked the guests - but yeah. This is why I can't watch The President Show either.

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Caught a bit of this on the local news last night. They showed Trump's tweets of him outright saying he's under investigation, Shouty Spice saying that his tweets are his own words AND official Presidential record, and then his as-seen-on-TV lawyer saying he was not under investigation. I turned to my grandma and said "Mel Brooks circa 1974 couldn't write something this funny" and she insisted Trump was "just being sarcastic [in his tweets]."



lol ok

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I don't understand how any seniors can be okay with him, when he's obviously aiming to gut social security and medicare

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because they think it'll only happen to the people that they think don't deserve it.

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Shouty Spice?? That's brilliant

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his lawyers are so embarrassing. I think Preet Bharara tweeted that they're "not the dream team." Lionel Hutz, Bob Loblaw, & Saul Goodman would be better.

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I like Sweaty Spice better lmao

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How much you wanna bet he will get Michael Brown back to run FEMA?



The nominee right now hasn't moved along in the process since April and he ran Alabama's response to deepwater horizon which was a clusterfuck.



Scott Baio for state department?



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Coming up on one year since the flooding here in Louisiana and having a storm starting to form out in the Gulf, I'm panicking about FEMA. Sure, they aren't the best and there are always complaints ... but I can only imagine the mess it will be this time around.

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http://www.cnn.com/2017/06/19/politics/health-care-democrats-reaction/index.html



I know that Dems can't stop the passage, but by slowing it down, hopefully they can put it off until after the July 4th recess. And then during the recess the GOP's constituents will hopefully show up in force to voice their disapproval for the bill and scare some of the more vulnerable Senators off from voting for it. I know that Dems can't stop the passage, but by slowing it down, hopefully they can put it off until after the July 4th recess. And then during the recess the GOP's constituents will hopefully show up in force to voice their disapproval for the bill and scare some of the more vulnerable Senators off from voting for it.

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I hope they can stall it long enough. My POS senator, Gardner, is helping to write this *thing*. I can't think of an appropriately horrible word to describe it. But he sure the hell won't be scared away from it. And he won't show at any town hall. We've had more town halls with a cardboard cutout of that shitstain than ones with him present.



I'm guessing none of the other GOP bastards will show to their town halls, either. "Security concerns" and all that. All I feel I can do now is beg Michael Bennett to stand firm (I have no worries about that), and to sway as many others to the Dem side as he can.

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ICE agents continue to stalk immigrants at courthousesthis time, at a human trafficking court. https://t.co/6WbqtmOoq4  Gabe Ortiz  (@TUSK81) June 19, 2017



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This is what Trump encourages



Edited at 2017-06-19 06:10 pm (UTC)

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This administration is giving racist pieces of garbage legal authority to ruin the lives of the people they hate with no justification whatsoever. Seems reasonable!

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the ever loving fuck

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NEW: Special Counsel Robert Mueller has recruited a prosecutor who is known for persuading witnesses to flip https://t.co/u08I9GVrel pic.twitter.com/se3cG9DAye  Yashar Ali (@yashar) June 19, 2017



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I bet they can crack kush

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He seems weak. I can smell it.

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Mueller ain't playing around, bless

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how long until he's fired?

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The wisdom of these children is truly beyond their years. @Mic pic.twitter.com/vtrH0Nbj8T  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) June 19, 2017 Islamophobia isn't a thing tho

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I wanna give these kids a hug D:

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people don't care to know about anything that doesn't involve americuhhh

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That's why I always rme when Candy McBrady of Minnesota is crying that Christians are persecuted because SHE thinks she's one of them because Yankee Candle says Happy Holidays instead, not sparing one damn thought to Christians in perilous places who are persecuted for their faith.

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seeing these kids made me tear up. I'm so sick and tired of all of this

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The police is not investigating it as a hate crime and are instead treating it as a road rage incident.



This is complete bullshit and infuriating.

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Mte



All of this is awful but that part in particular made me go WTF?!

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MTE. As many issues as the UK still has, at least they are calling the attack what it is - Terrorism

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They tried not to but the public outrage was too great, especially in this climate after two terror attacks.

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he was just upset about them being on bikes~~~ why are you making everything about race smh???



(i'm kidding, hope that was obv)



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can you imagine the shitshow on social media if it was called a terrorist attack? all those ignorant comments and all...

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Considering the mass hysteria and trend of hyping "white bias" hate crimes, (as in crimes committed against White people that are suddenly considered "racist"), yes, it is indeed bullshit.

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How the fuck is this road rage?!

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Honestly. What the fuck.

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yeah white people in the states can stick their head in the sand as much as they want but at some point they need to start recognizing what a hate crime is and that their own commits them. and that change has to start with them. i hope people fight back against this and forces them to call it a hate crime but i don't have much hope

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its beyond rage inducing and peak white privilege.

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Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is exactly the same way they treated the North Carolina shooting of that Muslim couple and their sister. They called it a road rage incident over a parking spot even though the guy had a long history of being violently atheist (but somehow, never got into a dispute with a Christian, despite NC being full of evangelical nutjobs).

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The police is not investigating it as a hate crime and are instead treating it as a road rage incident.



Are you serious?????? I don't doubt for a minute that bastard went after them because he thought they were ~~evul terrorists.







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Even if the stupid idiot didn't somehow intend it to be a hate crime, the police should investigate this angle as well ffs

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Road rage incident!!!??? I want to fucking scream. This shit is so fucking upsetting.

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it sounds like a hate crime

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There's just more and more awfulness everyday.

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Both of these stories have been making me feel sick to my stomach jfc

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White people stay getting a pass for being terrible human beings. This shit screams HATE CRIME. Are they serious!?

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I really need white people to apologize for the dumb shit other white people do like shooting up an elementary school, shooting up a movie theatre, shooting up a church, i can go on....

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Same! And if you noticed its always the same celebs tweeting. Like I've never seen a Meryl Streep or a Tom Cruise type person saying shit. It needs to be said loud and clear. They always want to shove it down throats that POC is who we should fear, but white people are just as dangerous.....maybe more because they get such a pass.

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i'm gonna need people to start asking white male celebs what they think of all these radical clean shaven white men tbh

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I can't watch any news coverage about that poor girl who was murdered because the reporters keep saying, "no proof this is a hate crime" before even discussing what's going on.



Ok, so a young obviously Muslim girl is murdered going to a mosque and that doesn't look like a hate crime at all?!

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the second incident involving the muslim teen is being treated as road rage. The incident in london is being treated as a terrorist attack.

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how is it road rage when the guy assaulted her and killed her?

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how would beating someone up with a bat constitute road rage??? jfc the level ppl will fall to deny hate crimes.

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poor guy was probably mentally ill or something!!11

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So fucking gross

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I was appalled when I was watching World News Tonight and they said that about him, then read a statement from his family saying he never showed signs of violence...then his neighbors ratting him out saying he became unhinged 2 weeks ago.



Two things I noticed: if it was a Muslim family, they'd be outright investigating the children and mom for aiding and abetting. And also we'd be yelling at the Muslim neighbors for knowing the guy was unhinged but not doing anything to stop it.

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road rage? are you fucking kidding me?

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.@SenWhitehouse tells @wolfblitzer there is a ton of evidence Mike Flynn is a cooperating witness with the FBI. Wow.  Josh Rogin (@joshrogin) June 19, 2017 sis

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muahahah

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I'm so afraid Mike Flynn will be the only one to go to prison for this and it will only be for, like, nine months. That's just how these things have worked out in the past.

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"The police is not investigating it as a hate crime and are instead treating it as a road rage incident."



yeah..I'm from NC and the same reason was given for the Chapel Hill murders..

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fucking really? the guy who went into the black church and then killed all of them after they took him in and prayed with him right? and then the fucking cops bought him burger king? or is this another incident? in any case, being white is a helluva drug

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There were three people that were shot in Chapel Hill, a married couple and their sister. They were Syrian-American and the women were hijabis.



The church incident was in South Carolina.

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Over the past 5 years, focus on the U.S. oil & gas sector has centered around oil production from the U.S. shale revolution while neglecting, arguably, the most important part of the US oil & gas sector: U.S. refining. The shale revolution may have put the U.S. in the top 3 oil producers in the world, but the U.S. already has the top spot with the worlds largest and most sophisticated refining industry.

(Click to enlarge)

In terms of size, Chinas refining industry comes closest to the U.S. with over 15 million barrels per day (bbl/d) of refining capacity, but the industry operates at less than 75 percent utilization. The low utilization of Chinese refineries is because 3.5-4.5 million bbl/d of refining is done by independent teapot refineries that operate at 30 percent-60 percent capacity. These teapot refineries are inefficient and propped up by government regulations.

In terms of sophistication, South Koreas industry is the closest competitor to the U.S., however, economics force refineries to operate at near full capacity. Operating at full capacity forced South Korea to export more than 1.3 million bbl/d of refined oil products in 2016 and it creates dramatic volatility in the profit margins of South Korean refiners when oil prices spike.

The combination of the U.S. size and sophistication puts its refining industry in a league of its own and that is not expected to change. U.S. history has helped build a diverse set of privately-owned refineries and infrastructure able to take on diverse types of crude oil and turn those into higher valued refined oil products.

The U.S. Shale Revolution: Lightening the Load

The U.S. shale revolution does have its place in this story. U.S. shale production brought a flood of light sweet oil to the domestic market and completely changed the landscape for U.S. refiners (the lighter from heavy the oil, the lower the viscosity and the sweeter from sour the oil, the lower the sulfur content).

(Click to enlarge)

While the U.S. shale revolution increased total U.S. production by 65 percent from 2009, crude oil imports fell by only 11 percent. The shale revolution allowed the U.S. to replace light sweet crude oil imports from Nigeria, Angola, and Algeria with domestic shale production. Additionally, refiners re-configured some refineries to take on light sweet crude. However, just like not all crude oil is the same, not all refineries are the same.

Historically, much of the oil imported by the U.S. was from Venezuela and Mexico. Latin America was a primary supplier of heavy sour oil to regional U.S. markets, referred to as PADDs, where most refineries in the Gulf Coast, Midwest, and West Coast could refine their heavy oil. As the U.S. light oil revolution started in 2011, heavy oil imports have increase by 11 percent to 2016, but this time most of the heavy oil supplies are coming from Canada.

(Click to enlarge)

Lucky Loonie

Call it luck or destiny, but the U.S. shale revolution came just in time. As an important heavy oil supplier to U.S. refiners, Canadas Oil Sands producers were looking for ultra-light oil imports from Qatar and Australia to blend with its heavy oil so it could send more of its oil through pipelines into the U.S. market. During that time, the U.S. shale revolution began producing an abundance of ultra-light oil perfect to blend with heavy oil from the Oil Sands. This was the start of an intricate ballet of crude movement between the two countries.

The U.S. would send its ultra-light crude oil from shale formations up to Canada and Canadian producers would blend that ultra-light oil with heavy crude from Canadas Oil Sands. The increase in ultra-light oil from shale formations helped Canadian producers boost Oil Sands production and supply more heavy oil through pipelines, trains, and barges to U.S. refiners. At the refinery, the U.S. would either refine the blend from Canada or strip the ultra-light crude from the blend and re-send the product to Canada to repeat the process.

(Click to enlarge)

The mutual exchange of resources between the U.S. and Canada and the fact that Canadas oil market was isolated from exporting across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans helped U.S. refiners switch from Latin American to Canadian heavy oil. Canadas isolation from international markets has made Canadian heavy crude oil the cheapest source of heavy oil delivered to U.S. refiners.

(Click to enlarge)

U.S. Petroleum Power

Oil is a crucial product for energy security, but transport vehicles do not run on crude oil. A country without a refinery has no use for crude oil and, thus, must import petroleum products to ensure energy security. Countries with abundant oil production that lack domestic refinery throughput, like Canada and Mexico, are left to import petroleum products from the U.S.

(Click to enlarge)

Much of the U.S. gasoline exports head to markets in Latin America and the U.S. liquified petroleum gas (LPG) exports, also known as propane and butane, are sent to the Asia Pacific. The U.S. advantage of diversification of refining capacity allows refiners to produce differing yields of petroleum products based on the crude oil processed. Light oil refiners produce much heavier residual fuels over heavy refiners which have additional infrastructure like cokers used to reformulate residual fuels from heavy oil into higher value light fuels like gasoline and diesel.

(Click to enlarge)

There is approximately 13.5 million bbls/d of refining capacity in the U.S. with coker units which is a good indication as to the heavy/medium sour refining capacity in the U.S. Most of this capacity is in the Gulf Coast, followed by the Midwest and West Coast.

As the shale revolution took flight, the US had a stable source of light sweet oil. Additionally, Canada provides a stable source of heavy and medium crude  providing the US with 47 percent of its heavy crude and 29 percent of its medium crude imports in 2016. With cheap crude oil inputs, a large sophisticated refining industry, and shipping access to markets in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, the U.S. has transformed into a net exporter of petroleum products.

(Click to enlarge)

Related: Big Oil Is Making Enormous Efficiency Gains

A Couple Keys to US Refining Dominance

1. IOCs vs. NOCs

There are several changes in the global refining industry that have made and ensured the U.S. as the top refiner to the world. Historically, the U.S. refining industry was built by several international oil companies (IOCs) to balance the effect of price volatility from oil production. As oil prices fell sharply, oil producers would make less from selling crude oil but make more money from refining oil into less price sensitive petroleum products.

However, over the past decade, the world has seen IOCs spin off or sell off their refining units as the industry has become saturated with refiners. Currently, the refineries being added to the global market are being constructed by national oil companies (NOCs) which do not always prioritize refinery economics over energy security. Even as NOCs bring online a couple oil refineries in 2017/2018, the number of new refineries built in the future will not be able to keep up with global demand for refined oil products. Someone is going to have to balance the market and that will fall on net exporters of petroleum products like the U.S.

2. The Al-Naimi Effect

Back in 2005, the former Saudi Arabian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Ali Al-Naimi, warned the world that light oil benchmarks like Brent are going to remain high until oil consuming countries can build refineries that can absorb more heavy/medium crude grades. While the US was a step ahead of the calls by Al-Naimi, countries in the Asia Pacific began building refineries to take on more heavy/medium crude oil grades.

In concert with the Asia Pacifics oil consuming countries, Saudi Arabia had built refineries that process around 1.2 million bbl/d of their own medium/heavy crude. Al-Naimis comments and Saudis actions served to tighten the supply for heavy/medium crude globally and allow Saudi heavy/medium crude to access customers through refined oil product exports to countries without heavy/medium crude refining capacity. This trend has served its purpose in tightening heavy/medium crude price differentials to the European Brent light oil benchmark.

(Click to enlarge)

The tightening spreads are lowering profit margins (referred to in refining as a crack spread) a refiner can make from refining a barrel of oil into various petroleum products. Most heavy/medium crude oil refiners are likely to continue to feel the squeeze in margins unless they have exclusive sources of heavy/medium crude oil that is shut out from the rest of the world.



Guess what? The U.S. happens to be sheltered from these issues, because much of the countrys heavy/medium crude comes from Canada. While Canada continues to struggle accessing markets outside of the U.S., the U.S. will continue to refine the worlds cheapest heavy/medium crude grades from Canada even as global heavy/medium crude grades could start trading at par to light oil benchmarks like Brent. Canadas biggest weakness is one of the U.S. refining industrys strongest asset.

(Click to enlarge) Related: How A $200,000 Well Could Drastically Change The Oil Industry

U.S. Refiners: Balancing the World

As the largest oil refinery industry in the world and domestic demand for refined oil products leveling off, the U.S. will be a key player in the future of balancing global refined product supplies. Since 2005, the U.S. has transitioned from a net importer of petroleum products to a net exporter of petroleum products. With rising oil supplies and limited additions to refining capacity, the importance of the U.S. and its ability to refine oil into lighter products will help feed the future global supply in key markets like Latin America and Asia.

Meanwhile, major regional oil exporting countries to the U.S. like Mexico and Canada will continue to require U.S. ultra-light oil and refined oil products supplies to keep exporting their own crude oil to the U.S. and feed their own demand for refined oil products. Through a combination of U.S. history, geography, technology, and timing, the world will increasingly depend on the strongest U.S. oil & gas sector  its refining industry.

By Omar Mawji for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
After last weeks attack on several vessels in the Bab Al Mandab, Middle East offshore oil operations again have been hit. According to Saudi Arabias national news agency SPA an attack on a major offshore oil field has been prevented. Saudi military sources have reported that the Al Marjan offshore oilfield was attacked by three boats bearing red and white flags. Warning shots have been fired, one vessel has been captured, while two others have escaped on Friday. The Saudi military reported that the captured boat "was loaded with weapons for (a) subversive purpose." No details were given by the Saudi officials on a possible group or country behind the attack.

(Click to enlarge)

The continuing remarks about a red and white flag on the boats could however be a hint to a possible Qatari involvement, as the latters flag holds these colors. This would mean a direct military confrontation in the offing, if proven.

However, there could also be a link with the Iranian reports on Friday that Saudi Arabia's coast guard has killed an Iranian fisherman. In April, Saudi security forces said they thwarted an attempted attack on an oil distribution center involving an unmanned boat from Yemen loaded with explosives.

Iranian sources also have stated on Friday that Saudi border guards had fired on two boats washed away by water to the area close to one of the oil platforms near the maritime border, adding that the commander of one of the two boats was killed. Related: How A $200,000 Well Could Drastically Change The Oil Industry

In April another attack was reported on Saudi oil operations. The Saudi armed forces reported that they had foiled an attempt to blow up an oil product distribution center in Jazan, a province bordering Yemen in the kingdoms southwest. SPA stated at that time that a remote-controlled boat laden with explosives was spotted leaving a small island in Yemeni waters and was later intercepted. Saudi security forces said they would stop any attacks by Houthi rebels, who are threatening shipping routes in the Red Sea with explosive-laden boats and mines.

The last years Saudi oil and gas operations have been not only hit by direct terrorist attacks but also by major cyberattacks, such as the Shamoon attack in 2012 or in 2016, when a new variant of the virus was used. In 2012 the attack wiped the hard drives of Saudi Arabias state-run oil giant, Saudi Aramco.

The Marjan field is one of Saudi Arabias largest offshore oil fields in production at present. On 2 June British oilfield services company Amec Foster Wheeler reported that it has won a contract from Saudi Aramco to provide key offshore and onshore field work services at the Marjan oilfield near the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The five year contract entails services including pre-front-end engineering and design (pre-FEED), FEED, and the company will be responsible for overall program management. Support services will be delivered for a further 300,000bpd oil & gas separation train, a gas processing plant, and a cogeneration facility.

When Marjan was first discovered in 1967, it contained an estimated 2.31 billion barrels of crude. It has an output of around 270,000 bopd, which the revamp could push up to 300,000 bopd. Production was also rerouted from GOSP 1 to join with that of the other two for delivery of both crude and compressed gas to the Tanajib facility onshore for processing. Before expansion, Marjan's single GOSP 1 had a maximum total production capacity of 100,000 b/d Arab Medium crude and about 175 MMcf/d gas. Almost all operations are now controlled from a fully computerized onshore control center at Tanajib.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Oil prices could plunge to US$30 a barrel in 2018 and maintain that low price for some two years, if OPEC fails to make steeper output cuts, Fereidun Fesharaki, chairman of oil and gas consultancy FGE, said at a conference on Monday.

The current OPEC cuts could be enough to keep the price of oil at around US$50 per barrel for the rest of this year, Fesharaki said at the International Association for Energy Economics conference in Singapore, as quoted by Platts.

But next year, new supply is expected to overtake demand growth if OPEC doesnt deepen the production cuts. This would send oil prices lower, according to Fesharaki.

Last week, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said that non-OPEC production in 2018 would increase by 1.5 million barrels daily  a rate that would surpass the growth of global demand.



Speaking at the Singapore conference on Monday, FGEs Fesharaki said that the key question for the oil market was whether U.S. shale production had a limit. If there is a limit, OPECs cuts might work, but if there isnt a limit, or if shale output in Argentina surges, OPECs strategy with the cuts would fail, Platts quoted Fesharaki as saying.

In 2018, the surplus is expected to grow, due to higher production in U.S. shale, Nigeria, Libya, and Kazakhstan, according Fesharaki. Russia, on the other hand, would be a wild card, because upstream investments are expected to increase there, he noted.

Within OPEC, its only Saudi Arabia that has the capacity to cut deeper, and it would be up to them to decide, according to Fesharaki.



Related: Big Oil Opposes Trumps Budget Plans

If Saudi Arabia believes there is a limit to US production, they will cut... critical decisions will have to be taken [by Riyadh] in the middle of next year or towards the end of next year, Platts quoted Fesharaki as saying.



Despite the fact that OPEC and non-OPEC partners rolled over the cuts into March 2018, the oil market wasnt enthusiastic about the extension as-is, and oil prices have dropped some 13 percent since the cuts were extended.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Libya is producing 885,000 barrels of crude oil daily after last week it reached an agreement with German Wintershall that will see the latter restart production at fields with a combined output of 160,000 bpd, a source from the countrys oil industry told Reuters. Since the announcement of the agreement, total Libyan output has jumped by 50,000 bpd.

The North African country, which has been exempted from the OPEC production cut deal, now aims to raise production to 1 million bpd by the end of next month. This plan, and the fact that it is not as far-fetched as it may have seemed a few months ago amid clashes between armed groups at some of the main oil export points in the Oil Crescent, is bound to weigh on oil prices. Last month, it was Libya whose increase in oil production drove an overall rise in OPEC output, which deepened the gloom among oil bulls and pressured prices further down below US$50 a barrel.

The conflict with Wintershall that took off 160,000 bpd from Libyas total production stemmed from a dispute over crude oil owed by the German operator of two oil production concessions in Libya, with the dues dating back to 2010, the chairman of the NOC told the FT last month. The NOC, according to the FT, wanted to change the terms of its contract with Wintershall from a concession to a production-sharing agreement, but the German company, which is a unit of BASF, apparently resisted. Now the dispute has been settled and Libya is well on its way to reaching its production target for mid-2017.

At the same time, tensions between the rival government in the East and the West, and additional tension between the NOC and the West-based government, which is backed by the UN, are still intense. The NOC was particularly vocal about the Beghazi governments recent decree that aimed to transfer some of the oil trading powers of NOC to the cabinet.

NOC said last month that it has a plan for three development phases to lift Libyas oil production. The first stage plans for increasing output to 1.32 million bpd by the end of this year, at a cost of US$550 million. The second phase entails raising output gradually to 1.5 million bpd by the end of next year, for another US$1.8 billion worth of investment, plus additional US$1.2 billion in tank and pipeline replacement and maintenance. In the third development stage, Libya plans its production to increase to 2.2 million bpd by 2023, which would require around US$18 billion in investments.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Further to the last item above, things are looking ever-tougher for the South African mining sector.

As Ive discussed in the past, the fall of South Africa over the last decade has been phenomenal. With the nation going from worlds top gold producer, to now barely breaking the top 10.

Anecdotally, its well known that miners here are hurting. With myriad stories reporting on the financial hardships faced by producers, employees and government.

Those declining mining finances are driving the government to seek a bigger share of profits  through moves like this weeks steep revisions to fiscal terms across the country.

But some intriguing data released this week shows thats a fools game. The real problem is: South Africas sector simply isnt making any money. And the governments strategy of trying to take more of a shrinking pie could well accelerate a major collapse of industry here.

Here are the numbers  released as part of a study by S&P Global Market Intelligence, detailing productivity of the worlds largest gold mining nations.

The study authors first looked at traditional measures of mining productivity. Measuring tonnes of ore mined per man hour worked at mines in 30 countries globally  a metric often used to estimate which operations are getting the most bang for their labor buck.

The left-side chart shows overall productivity in terms of tonnes mined  while the right side breaks it down by open-pit mines (blue lines) and underground operations (yellow). Showing a varied mix of global locales in the top five most-productive: USA, Brazil, Philippines, Australia and Turkey.

(Click to enlarge)

S&P ranks 30 of the worlds top gold mining countries by tonnes mined per man hour worked.

Related: Iraq Dethrones Saudi Arabia As Indias No.1 Oil Supplier

The chart highlights South Africas big mining issues. With that country coming in fourth-last in terms of productivity. Most of the worlds other top gold-mining nations  Australia, USA, Canada and Peru  ranked in the top 10 for productivity.

The good news for South Africa is that it came in ahead of worlds top gold producer China. And not too far behind number-three producer Russia.

Or did it?

The S&P study points out that using a metric like tonnes mined per man hour doesnt paint a full picture of productivity. Because not all tonnes are equal  an operation might mine fewer tonnes of more-valuable rock, and make higher profits than a mine that pumps out low-grade ore.

To correct for this value factor, S&P re-ran the numbers using gross revenues per man hour. And the changes are stunning.

As the chart below shows, when ranked by cash generated per man hour, the order of most-productive nations changes significantly.

Top gold mining nations like Australia, USA and Canada still stand out. Actually coming in number 1 through 3 in terms of financial productivity. Number 6 producer Peru falls to middle of the pack. Number 3 nation Russia stays about the same.

(Click to enlarge)

Ordering gold mining nations by financial productivity changes the picture significantly.

Related: Solar And Wind Revolution Happening Much Faster Than Expected

But South Africa is the real shocker in this analysis. With the nation falling squarely to last place in global gold mining productivity.

Not only last  but last by a long way. You can see at the bottom right in the chart above how South Africas financial productivity is less than half of second-last nation China.

Overall, South Africas productivity is a whopping 90% lower than top gold nation Australia. By far the worst in the world  and now about to get even worse, after this weeks additional financial burdens announced by the government.

Thats an untenable situation. Watch over the coming months for potential major breakdowns in South Africas operations  mine closures, strikes, and violence are all distinct possibilities. All of which could lift prices for gold (and platinum  where South Africa accounts for 70 percent of global production), but will be very serious for in-country operators.

Heres to dead last.

By Dave Forest

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Van ran into pedestrians near London mosque 19 June, 2017



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Woke Bingo A van ran into pedestrians near a north London mosque, killing one man and injuring eight others in an incident that police on Monday said was being investigated by counter-terrorism officers.



The 48-year-old driver of the van was detained by members of the public and then arrested by police, as Muslim leaders said worshippers were specifically targeted after leaving prayers at the mosque shortly after midnight.



One man was pronounced dead at the scene... Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals, police said in a statement, adding that two other people were treated for minor injuries.



Police said the driver had also been taken to hospital and would receive a mental health assessment.



Due to the nature of this incident, extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan, the police statement concluded.



We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left Finsbury Park Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body, said on Twitter.



Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, said the van had intentionally run over people leaving night prayers for the holy month of Ramadan.



"From the window, I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching, a lot of chaos outside.  Everybody was shouting: 'A vans hit people, a vans hit people'," one woman who lives opposite the scene told the BBC.



"There was this white van stopped outside Finsbury Park mosque that seemed to have hit people who were coming out after prayers had finished. I didnt see the attacker himself, although he seems to have been arrested, but I did see the van."



One witness told CNN it was clear that the attacker at Finsbury Park had deliberately targeted Muslims.



"He tried to kill a lot of people so obviously it's a terrorist attack. He targeted Muslims this time," the witness, identified only as Rayan, said.



We saw lots of people shouting and lots of people injured, David Robinson, 41, who arrived just after the accident, told AFP.



The London Ambulance Service said: We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist responses teams to the scene.



Our priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure that those most in need are treated first and taken to hospital.



Prime Minister Theresa May condemned it as a terrible incident and said it was being treated as a potential terrorist attack.



I will chair an emergency meeting later this morning. All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene, she said in a statement on Monday.



Opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he was totally shocked and had been in touch with mosques and police. The area is in Corbyn's Islington North constituency.



A helicopter hovered overhead and several emergency vehicles blocked a section of Seven Sisters Road, a busy thoroughfare where the incident happened.



Police, including armed officers, could be seen manning a wide cordon around the area. Others searched the area with sniffer dogs.



A group of Muslim men were praying on the pavement nearby. Traffic was shut down along a one-kilometre section of the road.

'Evil violence'



Finsbury Park mosque was once a notorious hub for radicals but has entirely changed in recent years under new management.



Its former imam Abu Hamza was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015.



He preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States.



In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MB to promote better understanding of Islam following terrorist attacks in Paris.



Despite the change in leadership and new focus on community relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the Paris attacks.



If this attack is confirmed as a deliberate terrorist attack then this should be classed as an act of terrorism, said Mohammed Shafiq, head of the Ramadhan Foundation community group.



The British Muslim community requires all decent people to stand with us against this evil violence, he said, adding that rampant Islamophobia has been on the rise for a number of years.



Cage, a Muslim human rights group, said there had been an epidemic rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes.



We urge all to remain calm and do their utmost not to inflame an already volatile and distressing situation, it said in a statement.

Spike in anti-Muslim crime



Monday's incident in London follows an attack on June 3 in which three militants wearing fake suicide vests ran over pedestrians and went on a stabbing spree in bars in the London Bridge area.



They killed eight people before being shot dead by police.



London Mayor Sadiq Khan said following that attack that there had been a 40-percent increase in racist incidents in the city and a fivefold increase in the number of anti-Muslim incidents.


From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As...
Dr Clement Abasinab Apaak, the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, has made a passionate appeal to the Government to provide adequate mental health facilities for the three regions of the north.



He said there was only one psychiatrist stationed at the Tamale Teaching Hospital who was taking care of patients in the three regions of the north comprising the Upper East, Upper West and Northern regions.



Only 34 psychiatric nurses are serving the over four million population, according to estimates of Basic Needs-Ghana, a non-governmental organisation. Country-wide there are only 600 psychiatric nurses.



According to the Basic Needs-Ghana, research indicate that the northern sector of Ghana, with over 60 per cent of its population classified under the poorest and mostly under-served in terms of mental health services, does not have a single psychiatric clinic or hospital, although it has a large number of mental patients.



Mr Speaker, the top 10 mental problems often diagnosed in Ghana, according to the 2003 Government Report, include schizophrenia, substance abuse, depression, hypomania, acute organic brain syndrome, manic depression psychosis, schizo-affective psychosis, alcohol dependence syndrome, epilepsy and dementia, Dr Apaak said on the floor of Parliament.



Notwithstanding, Mr Speaker, the irony is that, all the three mental health facilities are located in the southern sector of our nation, Dr Apaak said.



He, therefore, called on the Government, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health and all stakeholders to help support mental health by ensuring that more and modern mental health facilities are built in the northern sector of Ghana to ensure that patients had easy access to mental healthcare.



Dr Apaak said the Mental Health Act, Act 846, 2012, among others, sought to provide access to primary care for mental health and provide mental health facilities in deprived parts of the country, adding that not much had been done in that direction.



He said the country could not live in a peaceful and freer environment without addressing the mental health challenges.



Mr Speaker, establishing mental health facilities in the northern sector of the country and the modernisation of all mental health facilities across the country is a must, Dr Apaak said.

Source: GNA









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QUEENSBURY  One person was hurt in a Monday morning crash involving a bus driver on Quaker Road, police said.

The Warren County Sheriff's Office said a bus carrying clients of Community, Work & Independence Inc. hit a car from behind at the intersection of Quaker Road and Glenwood Avenue.

The driver of the car that was hit, Theresa Philion of Queensbury, was taken to Glens Falls Hospital after the collision. Her injuries were not believed to be serious.

No one on the bus was hurt. Its driver was identified as Jean Donnelly of Fort Ann.

As a result of the investigation, Donnelly was issued a traffic citation for following too closely.

The accident was investigated by Sheriffs Patrol Officers J.Grenier and J. Bateholts and assisted by Queensbury Central Fire Department.
GLENS FALLS  With what is billed as its biggest show ever and probably the biggest show to hit Charles R. Wood Theater on Glen Street in some time, the Adirondack Theatre Festival kicks off its summer season this week.

Theres never been anything like this in Glens Falls, said Chad Rabinovitz, the producing artistic director of ATF, visibly excited as he spoke about the new musical Nikola Tesla Drops the Beat.

On Thursday night, the 12 actors cast in the musical rehearsed the opening scene in the cabaret rehearsal space of Wood Theater in preparation for this weeks opening.

Although they have been rehearsing for the past several weeks, their performance easily connected these seasoned Broadway and off-Broadway performers with any onlookers standing by.

Within minutes, most watching were hooked as the actors soul-touching vocals, sometimes comical mannerisms and practiced moves said, Yeah, were here, and weve got an awesome story to tell.

The new play, written by Nikko Benson and Benjamin Halstead, tells the rarely told, high-powered tale of inventor Nikola Tesla in modern terms with electronic dance music, hip-hop moves, hundreds of lights and millions of light-color possibilities.

Its like Hamilton meets Tesla,  said Rabinovitz. Its insane.

What makes the show so big is the combination of an unprecedented light plot, myriad music and vocal genres, and movements and dance that mirror electricity flowing.

Getting the show  with all of its complicated technical elements, dialogue, vocals and dance  to local audiences in three weeks has meant long hours for a dedicated team.

I try to be an ally for the actors; they can text me after hours and meet with me before group rehearsals, said Broadway conductor Madeline Smith, the music director and vocal arranger for the show. The music is very complicated and it is a hybrid of EDM (electronic dance music) and musical theater.

The light plot includes hundreds of lights that have to be programmed to sync with the actors moves and music.

This is a really ambitious show with a tight schedule, and now its crunch time, said lighting designer Jake DeGroot. I worked closely with the set designer in the process and it tends to be collaborative.

Broadway choreographer Maxx Reed said that because the show is so ambitious, he did a lot of preparation work in New York City before coming to Glens Falls a few weeks ago.

I had to come up with things while I was still in Manhattan, he said, adding that it is an honor to get to work with this show. It really becomes a dance show using music and dialogue to create a visual story.

Tesla previews at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and opens at 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
Warren County District Attorney Kate Hogan was tapped late Monday for a judgeship on the state Court of Claims.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo nominated Hogan late last week, and Hogan was unanimously confirmed by the state Senate late Monday afternoon as her family looked on in the Senate chambers.

She was sworn in Monday night and was required to resign as district attorney as a result. Hogan said the appointment will take effect Tuesday, when her oath of office is filed.

State Sen. Elizabeth Little, R-Queensbury, spoke on her behalf during the Senate hearing, calling her a great community person.

It is a nomination he (Cuomo) will never regret, I can guarantee that, Little told her fellow senators.

State Sen. Neil Breslin, D-Albany, praised her as well for her work ethic and accomplishments during her years as a prosecutor in Warren County.

Hogan, a Republican, said late Monday that she would have a statement on the appointment Tuesday.

Hogan was one of nine new Court of Claims judges named to the court on Monday. State Sen. John Bonacic, R-Middletown, praised Cuomo for an impressive slate of nominees.

Hogans statewide stature has grown in recent years, as she sat on the Moreland Commission to investigate public corruption, was leader of the state district attorneys association and sat on numerous statewide legal task forces.

She is coming off a highly publicized trial in which she secured convictions in the Lake George boating fatality case, a trial she prosecuted personally.

She was reportedly considered for U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York earlier this year, and has been wooed by state Republicans to run for a number of posts over the years.

Her departure as district attorney would mean Queensbury resident and native Jason Carusone, Hogans longtime first assistant district attorney, would become district attorney, with an election for the post this fall. Carusone, a Republican, assisted Hogan with the Lake George boat case and headed the offices drug prosecutions for years.

Hogan would have been up for re-election as district attorney this fall.

The Court of Claims was established to hear lawsuits that are filed against the state, but the judges also hear some Supreme Court-level civil cases.

There are six Court of Claims judges in Albany, and others based in cities across the state.

They are appointed to nine-year terms, but she could step down to run for Warren County judge or other positions locally if she so desired in the future. She has long been rumored as the likely successor to Warren County Judge John Hall when Hall retires in the coming years.

Court of Claims judges were paid $193,000 annually as of last year. Hogans salary as district attorney was $152,000 last year.

Hogan, a Glens Falls resident and a Hudson Falls native, has been Warren County district attorney since 2002. She was an assistant district attorney in Warren County and Kings County before she was elected, and also spent a number of years in private practice between prosecutorial stints.

She has not had a challenger for district attorney since the mid-2000s, winning re-election unopposed.

Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan said Hogans departure was a loss for the local legal community, but a gain for the state.

Few realize the statewide impact she has had with criminal justice issues over the years through the District Attorneys Association and her other statewide efforts. For instance, she was instrumental in the states Leandras Law legislation that made drunken driving with a child in the vehicle a felony.

She has been able to affect the decision-making on a lot of important issues, Jordan said.

He said Carusone and the team that Hogan put in place in her office will be up to the challenge of carrying on her legacy. On a personal level, he said he will miss having Hogan available as a sounding board for decisions.

She was a big reason I ran (for district attorney). We always have been able to reach out to each other, he said.

Warren County Sheriff Bud York said Hogan will certainly be missed by police in the county.

We have always had a great working relationship with her, he said. Its great when police and prosecutors work together.

York recalled a state Sheriffs Association conference where Hogan spoke several years ago, and the reaction of many of the sheriffs who were in attendance.

A bunch of them came up to me and said, Man, I wish we had a district attorney like her so we could have that sort of working relationship,  he said.
FORT EDWARD  The jury in the Matthew Slocum triple-murder retrial was sent home for the day Monday night after failing to reach a verdict after more than four hours of deliberations.

The jury started deliberations at about 12:45 p.m.

The panel came out of the deliberation room three times with questions, asking for a law read-back in reference to reasonable doubt and asking for the definitions of an accomplice and a gun possession charge.

They were sent home for the night at 5:20 p.m. after asking to hear testimony of forensic evidence witnesses read back related to DNA found on a shotgun.

Deliberations came after Slocums defense lawyer told the jury hearing his triple-murder retrial Monday that Slocums girlfriend was the murderer.

Washington County Public Defender Michael Mercure, lead defense counsel, told the jury that forensic evidence pointed to girlfriend Loretta Colegroves guilt, and led to reasonable doubt against his client.

Prosecutor Eric Galarneau, though, told the Washington County jury that it was not plausible that Colegrove was to blame.

Earlier Monday, Mercure gave a 40-minute closing statement, using videos that had been introduced into evidence and showing the jury the shotgun believed to have been used to shoot Slocums mother, stepfather and stepbrother on July 13, 2011.

He highlighted her blood-spattered shirt, which had the blood of victim Lisa Harrington on it, and said the forensics that included blood on her shirt and the presumed murder weapon implicate her.

Surveillance videos from a Massachusetts pawn shop and New Hampshire grocery showed she was leading the way and had ample opportunity to flee and seek help.

She had the motive, she had the opportunity, she had the ability, he said. The murderer is Loretta Colegrove.

Galarneau said the fire Slocum set destroyed much of the evidence, and he pointed to Slocums shorts having blood from his mother on them as one piece of forensics that linked him. He also destroyed his shirt, while Colegrove kept hers, he pointed out.

Galarneau also repeatedly focused on the 10 letters that Slocum wrote to Colegrove from jail from 2011 to 2012, which include repeated apologies to her, deriding of himself and professing love for her.

That is not something someone would do if he believed the person to whom he was writing had killed his mother, Galarneau added.

The defendants letters tell you he did it, he said.

He said the placement of the bodies, and two dead dogs, before the fire showed it was a personal crime that someone with ties to the victim had. Slocum was likely worried that he was going to be kicked out of the house, as his stepbrother Josh OBrien had recently moved in.

And even if jurors think Colegrove was involved in the killings as an accessory to Slocum, under the law, Slocum would still be guilty, Galarneau explained.

Colegrove was not charged and was given immunity in 2011 to cooperate against Slocum.

Slocum, 29, is on trial for the shotgun killings of Lisa Harrington, Dan Harrington and Joshua OBrien in their home on Turnpike Road, White Creek, and is accused of setting their home on fire after the shootings.

He was convicted of murder, arson and lesser counts following a trial in 2012, but the convictions were overturned when appeals courts determined he was denied his right to counsel when questioned.

That ruling led to a confession he gave being barred from evidence at trial.

Slocum did not testify during the retrial, which saw five days of testimony last week.

Galarneau is an Albany County assistant district attorney whose office was assigned as a special prosecutor because the Washington County District Attorneys Office had a conflict of interest that arose after the first trial.
The stories are horrific.

I know, Ive heard quite a few of them. Each time I write about the sexual abuse of children, I get another email or phone call from someone wanting to tell their story.

The victims are decades removed from the abuse  many at the hands of the clergy  and are still searching for what has so far been elusive: justice.

In New York, victims of child sexual abuse cannot bring charges after the age of 23. Considering what we know today about victims repressing these crimes, blaming themselves and fearing no one will believe them, the law is a travesty.

What is an equal travesty is that the Legislature in Albany has been unable to deliver that justice for more than a decade, and with time running out in the legislative session, the chances dont look much better.

The Child Victims Act, which extends the statute of limitations to the age of 28 and allows victims to file lawsuits up until age 50, passed the Assembly 139-7 with both Dan Stec and Carrie Woerner voting for it. Gov. Andrew Cuomo also endorsed the bill this past week, leaving it in the hands of Republicans in the state Senate.

It is up to them to deliver justice.

So far, that appears unlikely.

What they are reluctant to do is to provide past victims with their day in court.

The bill provides a one-year window for victims to file a lawsuit against their abusers, regardless of when the abuse took place.

It allows the victims their day in court.

It allows them closure.

Last month, the director of communications for the New York State Catholic Conference told the Legislative Gazette, People today cannot be held responsible for the atrocities committed by people of the past.

While I agree the people cant, the institutions they represent should.

Thats justice.

Thats the right thing to do.

State Sen. Elizabeth Little does not support the Child Victims Act because of the one-year look back. She has chosen to protect the financial concerns of institutions like the Catholic Church over victims.

On Friday, she met with two victims who were sexually abused as children and still did not change her mind.

I dont see how she can look the other way.

I dont know how you cannot be morally outraged.

The victims should be allowed to have their day in court. If you believe in justice, you must support that.

There was a headline earlier this week that shocked this community: Sex sting busts 12.

Police advertised online for men wanting to have sex with underage girls.

According to police, 12 pursued the offer. They included a downstate corrections officer, a radio personality and a school bus driver.

More than half of the accused lived locally.

We like to believe these crimes are isolated incidents that cannot happen to our children, but this sting suggests otherwise. The sins of the past are still with us today.

But what should be more shocking is the state Senates inaction in addressing this issue and its choice to support powerful institutions.

These were children who were terrorized.

It is time to do the right thing.

Give these victims their day in court.

They have until Wednesday.
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What no doubt will come as a shock to some is no surprise to others.

An East Moline parent called last week and told about discovering two sets of strangers' medical records in her daughter's belongings. The documents included lists of medications, doctors' notes, diagnoses and other personal information, including Social Security numbers and addresses.

The girl who was caught with the records told her mom she got them at her school, Glenview Middle School, where some kids were passing them around. They stole the records, the girl said, from a nursing home that closed nearly four years ago.

Forest Hill Health & Rehab folded in 2013. Owner Michael Lerner has said it was not profitable, so he closed the 137-bed facility. Phone numbers for Lerner's GEM Health no longer are in service, and he could not be reached for comment.

About 18 months after it closed, someone walking by Forest Hill noticed a water leak, and the city responded. In addition to finding unlocked doors and windows, city workers encountered a surreal stage inside.

"It looked like a scene out of 'The Walking Dead,'" former East Moline Mayor John Thodos said last week. "There were sharps all over the place. I got a court order to remove the bio-hazards and the meds.

"There were medical records and personnel records. A driver's license and Social Security card were sitting right on a desk. There were keys, too.

"It looked like they were coming back on Monday morning."

Even with the court order to recover the items posing a health risk, the city lacked the authority to remove the records. So, they were left behind again. It appeared last week that a wheeled cart that was pushed out of the facility and left on a sidewalk contained at least a dozen binders of medical records.

The reason there were any records left for the kids to steal can be credited to the work of Blaze Restoration, Thodos said, which voluntarily makes spot checks on the building (as do police) and boards up windows when needed. But Blaze also lacks the authority to remove any property.

For the kids breaking in and stealing the documents, there could be bigger troubles.

"There is black mold all over in there, and you needed a respirator two years ago," Thodos said. "The building isn't even salvageable, anymore."

He blames Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan for failing to do something about it, especially since her office emphasizes its efforts at combating identity theft.

"She was contacted twice by our attorneys," Thodos said of Madigan. "She chooses to do nothing about it."

Madigan spokeswoman Annie Thompson on Monday said her office has been in contact with the East Moline city attorney.

"This building was guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and HUD is trying to sell the building and land," she said. "We had been working with HUD to try to get any buyer to agree to dispose of the records appropriately."

But a HUD spokeswoman last week confirmed no one was interested when the property became available under a foreclosure auction in January.

"Michael Lerner remains the owner of record," HUD spokeswoman Gina Rodriguez wrote in an email. "You may want to reach out to him and/or the IL Department of Public Heath, IDPH, regarding applicable procedures/state statute in the event of a nursing facility foreclosure as it relates to the concerns you raised."

Unable to locate Lerner or anyone who knows how to locate him, I turned to IDPH, as advised.

"IDPH no longer licenses this facility and, therefore, has no regulatory authority over the facility for records contained inside," agency spokeswoman Melaney Arnold. "IDPH does not have the authority to intervene."

So, no one has the authority to do anything. The 40,000-square-foot home, sitting on more than six acres in a residential neighborhood, is going to be left to decompose, along with whatever contents are not removed by children.

Thompson, the Attorney General spokeswoman, said, "The information about the break-ins is new to us, and we will be reaching out to the city again."

But city officials already have made clear their hands are tied.

We're all aware by now of HIPPA, the 1996 federal law that delivered strict regulations to protect privacy and security of health information. You can't get past the receptionist in any medical building without signing something related to HIPPA.

In East Moline, all of that goes, literally, right out the window.
Three families have been displaced after a vehicle crashed into their apartment building Sunday afternoon.

Davenport firefigthters were called at 12:53 p.m. to the 4300 block of Cheyenne Ave. for a report that a vehicle had struck a building.

Firefighters treated the driver of the vehicle who was then transported to a hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The three-story apartment building was struck near ground level, causing substantial damage, said District Fire Chief Mike Carlsten.

A representative from the City of Davenports Building Department responded to offer technical guidance. Because of the damage and potential safety concerns, the tenants from three units were evacuated.

These tenants will be displaced until the structure is temporarily stabilized, the full extent of damage is surveyed and repairs have begun, Carlsten said.

The Red Cross was called to assist three families who lived in these apartments  a total of 8 to 10 people. There is no damage estimate at this time.

The Fire Marshalls office and the City of Davenport Building Department are scheduled to follow up with building owners today.
Goodwill of the Heartland will join forces with Medieval Times, in Schaumburg, Illinois, to declare Monday "Chivalry in Action Day." From 1-3 p.m. the first 25 individuals who make a purchase or donation at the Rock Island Goodwill store and donation center, 4664 44th St., will receive two complimentary dinner and tournament tickets to Medieval Times in northwest suburban Chicago.

This is the inaugural stop for Medieval Times knights on their multi-city Chivalry in Action Goodwill Tour.

Throughout the two-hour appearance, the knights will present professional sword-fighting demonstrations, engage children in knights-in-training exercises and pose for photos with Goodwill patrons. After the first 25 pairs of complimentary tickets have been distributed, shoppers still can secure discount coupons for Medieval Times, which features live jousting tournaments with expert horsemanship and falconry and a four-course feast.

For more information about Goodwill, call 866-466-7881.
Along with the Miss Iowa Pageant this weekend, Miss Iowa's Outstanding Teen also will be crowned at Davenport's Adler Theatre.

This will be the 14th year for the Miss Iowas Outstanding Teen pageant, which began in 2004 with Ashlie Burroughs of Muscatine taking the first crown.

The winner of Miss Iowas Outstanding Teen will compete in the national Miss Americas Outstanding Teen pageant in Orlando, Florida, in August.

There are 13 competing for the title of Miss Iowa's Outstanding Teen:

 Odalis Ascencio-Solis, 15, of Fairfield. She is the daughter of Patricia Solis and Juan Ascencio and attends Fairfield High School. Her ambitions include becoming an immigration lawyer and cosmetologist. Her platform is Fight Child Hunger. Her talent is vocal.

 Gabrielle Aguirre, 16, of North Liberty. She is the daughter of Jill Smith-Aguirre and Roberto Aguirre and attends North Liberty High School. Her goal is to be a political analyst for a major news network. Her platform is Stand Against Bullying: Niceness is Priceless. Her talent is contemporary dance.

 Alexis Ashton, 17, of Solon. She is the daughter of Ned and Melissa Ashton and attends Solon High School. Her goal is to obtain a degree in chemical engineering and become a cosmetic engineer. Her platform is Handing Out Happiness with Each Basket of Hope. Her talent is baton twirling.

 Aubrey Firnhaber, 17, of Nevada. She is the daughter of Mary Harris and John Firnhaber and attends Nevada High School. Her goal is to be a dance teacher and owner of her own studio. Her platform is DBSA Awareness. Her talent is dance.

 Lydia Fisher, 14, of Wapello. She is the daughter of Kim and Eddie Fisher and attends Wapello High School. Her goal is to be a cardiothoracic surgeon. Her platform is Educating the Voters of Tomorrow. Her talent is tap dance.

 Bria Gearhart, 15, of Cedar Rapids. She is the daughter of Karen and Brian Gearhart and attends Prairie High School. Her goal is to be an art teacher. Her platform is Giving Joy with Gems of Hope. Her talent is baton twirling.

 Jordan George, 17, of Des Moines. She is the daughter of Marketa George Oliver and Ernest George and attends Theodore Roosevelt High School. Her goal is to fashion designer. Her platform is Making a Muscle for MDA. Her talent is vocal.

 Alyssa Goethe, 17, of Bettendorf. She is the daughter of Carla and Mark Goethe and attends Bettendorf High School. Her goal is to become a vocal performer and work in the music industry. Her platform is Turning Type 1 into Type None. Her talent is guitar and vocal performance.

 Carissa Johnson, 15, of Muscatine. She is the daughter of Renee and Chad Johnson and attends Muscatine High School. Her goal is to be an orthodontist. Her platform is Helping Win The Gold With Special Olympics. Her talent is tap dance.

 Allison Markey, 17, of Urbandale. She is the daughter of Jennifer and Jeffrey Markey and attends Waukee High School. Her goal is to be a police officer handling a K-9. Her platform is Best Buddies. Her talent is jazz dance.

 Madison Phipps, 13, of Eldridge. She is the daughter of Paula and Gary Phipps and attends North Scott High School. Her future ambitions include being a lawyer, the president and a therapist. Her platform is See a Need, Fill a Need. Her talent is musical theater vocal.

 McKenna Tackes, 17, of Keokuk. She is the daughter of Shannon and Daniel Tackes and attends Keokuk High School. Her plans include the study of communications and disabilities studies. Her platform is The Language of Life: Overcoming Communication Barriers. Her talent is contemporary dance.

 Cali Wilson, 16, of Norwalk. She is the daughter of Christine Wilson and attends Norwalk High School. Her goal is to become a professional dancer, dance teacher and choreographer. Her platform is A Chance to Dance. Her talent is contemporary dance-acro.
When historians recount the downward spiral of Trumpian populism, they may very well start in France. As in the U.S., voters were crying for radical change. The French had a Trumpish option in nativist right-winger Marine Le Pen and, over at the far left, an old-school Trotskyist.

But French voters gave victory instead to a man of the radical middle, Emmanuel Macron. Not everyone loves Macon's pro-business, pro-globalist program, but he is a mold breaker and definitely not crazy. And boy, do they love the young French president's jabs at Donald Trump. Macron easily wields the weapon of mockery and delights in turning it on Trump.

Some will recall their first encounter in Brussels, when Macron gripped Trump's hand in a prolonged and aggressive manner. After Trump pulled the U.S. out of the Paris accord on global warming, Macron cheerfully invited American climate researchers to come to France and work on publicly funded projects.

During the French campaign, Russia backed Macron's chief opponent, Le Pen. The leader of the far-right National Front promised to take France out of the EU. (Breaking up Western unity is high on Vladimir Putin's wish list.) Trump showered Le Pen with praise.

When the Kremlin reportedly hacked the Macron campaign in an obvious attempt to hurt the pro-Europe candidate, French voters rose up in defiance. In a later news conference with Putin, Macron dispensed with any Trump-style servility toward the Russian leader. Rather, he accused Russia of spreading "lying propaganda"  and he did it to Putin's face.

Perhaps French voters are tougher or better-informed than many of their American counterparts. Or they've had ample time to witness the lunacy emanating from the White House and decided to pass.

And to hammer home the point that France's electorate is ready for something that's different but sane, it is evidently giving Macron's party, En Marche! (In Motion!), a commanding victory in the parliamentary elections. (The runoff vote Sunday will determine the size.)

Macron is a true original. At age 39, he is the youngest French president in history. His campaigners went door to door looking for votes, something common in the U.S. but not in France. He founded En Marche! barely a year ago, and it's already trouncing the established parties. He's married to a woman almost 25 years his senior.

More importantly, Macron may very well have saved the European Union from breaking up. Britain's move to leave the 28-nation union shook it to the core. So has the growth of nationalist movements complaining of lost sovereignty under the EU yoke.

Few have illusions of the task ahead. The EU is undoubtedly burdened by a lumbering bureaucracy. France is littered with shuttered factories and has been jolted by mass immigration. And if any country has a justified fear of Islam-inspired terrorism, it is France.

Macron vows to change labor laws that make firing someone a prohibitive expense  and backs other reforms designed to help business. But he has no intention to dismantle France's superb health care system, rated best in the world, and he's a staunch backer of the Paris agreement.

The far-left candidate refused to endorse him, even against Le Pen. But the voters did, and enthusiastically.

There's a message here for Trump opponents, Republicans as well as Democrats and independents. The public may be hungry to coalesce around an unapologetic centrist with a fresh approach. In our two-party system, third parties have a problematic history of playing the spoiler. But a major party could cut its fringes loose and lunge for the middle.

If there's ever been a time for a radical center to take hold in this country, it's now. France has shown the possibilities.
One of the hottest rumors making the rounds among Illinois Statehouse types last week was that the governor and/or the Illinois Republican Party will be sending "trackers" to Springfield for the upcoming special legislative session.

The rumor, which was everywhere, was that the trackers would follow Democrats around to try and get them to say silly things or record them doing stuff that might not look good to the folks back home.

House staff was even telling Democratic members to watch out for the trackers. And some Democrats were privately demanding that their party respond in kind.

So, I went to the very upper echelons of Team Rauner and asked whether the rumors were true. I was told in no uncertain terms that the rumors are totally false.

Nasty rumors thrive in the pea-soup fog of fear and loathing that pervades every Statehouse molecule these days. At one time or another, it seems like everybody has fought everybody and now nobody trusts anybody.

Heck, the far-right Illinois Policy Institute is even running Facebook ads whacking Gov. Bruce Rauner and legislative Republicans for their "$5 billion tax hike." Rauner used to be a large contributor and often sought advice from and palled around with the groups leader.

The governor's party last week proposed what appears on the surface to be a fairly reasonable budget plan (pending further review) with some much-needed tax increases. But they couched the unveiling in such overtly partisan and demanding terms that it looks like a trap to many eyes on both sides of the aisle.

We're calling a special session so lawmakers can pass the Republican's compromise balanced budget plan w/ reforms," Gov. Rauner tweeted just before he officially called the special session. Rauner has obvious comprehension problems with the concept of "compromise." A plan drafted by one party and then presented as an all or nothing demand doesn't quite fit the traditional definition of the word. Then again, the Democratic majority has also done this on countless occasions.

But at least Gov. Rauner is finally starting to own something. You gotta give him that. Although, if the governor had just laid his tax hike cards on the table two and a half years ago we might not be in this rotten heap of a mess today. Senate President John Cullerton has said almost from the beginning that the only way a tax increase will pass is if the governor asks for it and sets the rates.

And there's so little trust right now, some Democrats (and some Republicans, who've also been burned by this guy) still want the governor to specifically say out loud that he will sign a personal income tax rate of 4.95 percent and new service taxes on things like landscaping, which are included in his proposal.

But its not just the rumors or the proposals or the press conferences. Other recent events have thoroughly rattled many Democrats. For instance, on June 9th Gov. Rauner contributed $1.5 million to the Illinois Republican Party and the follow following day the state party passed through $850,000 to the House Republicans' campaign committee.

In other words, to some Democratic eyes, Rauner gave his Republicans big bucks to either vote for tax hikes or stay mum.

It's also pretty much impossible to pass a tax hike without votes from Chicago Democratic legislators, who don't have to worry about general election challenges. Yet, the Republican proposal included what seemed to Chicago Democrats to be an obvious poison pill: Vote to raise taxes while simultaneously shortchanging funding for Chicago's public schools.

And then Illinois Republican Party negative mailers started hitting various House Democratic incumbents.

"Fred Crespo and Mike Madigan may let Illinois collapse," blared a mailer that landed last week in Rep. Crespo's suburban turf. "Fred Crespo teamed with Mike Madigan to: Block a balanced budget; Bail out Chicago Public Schools; Prevent a property tax increase; Reject job-creating reforms."

Last Friday, Rauner began airing TV ads attacking Speaker Madigan and his puppets for letting the state crumble and for wanting to raise taxes by billions.

Well, the House Democrats do stand alone as the only caucus without a budget plan. It's not at all inaccurate to warn Illinoisans that the House Dems may "let Illinois collapse," because they haven't yet done anything concrete to keep the government from collapsing.

But Democrats are left wondering if Rauner is trying to intimidate them into voting with him or setting them up to take the blame for a plan that wasnt ever going anywhere. Well find out soon.
Back in the mid-1980s, I had the honor of commanding the Light Fighter Academy at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. In that capacity, I selected a young Mike Matson to serve as a lead instructor at the academy.

I knew the first time I met Mike that he was a special person and a skilled and energetic leader. He is a man of uncompromising character and integrity. His optimism and positive energy are contagious. He embraced the tenet of selfless service that is the hallmark of all great leaders.

The training we provided was physically, mentally and emotionally stressful. Mike instilled confidence in the soldiers we trained while inspiring them to set and achieve the highest standards of professionalism.

I understand the importance of solid leadership from the governors office that result in business-friendly, informed policies. I often question the motives of those who seek political office, at times even suggesting that what motivates many to serve (ego-fueled sense of significance) should disqualify them from consideration. I have no such concerns for Mike. Hes motivated to be a public servant, what you see is what you get, no hidden agenda or pretense.

Bottom line, Davenports 7th Ward Alderman Mike Matson is a dynamic and accomplished leader with the capacity to lead Iowa to new heights and I strongly endorse his candidacy for governor of Iowa. The hardworking people of Iowa deserve the compassionate leadership Mike is uniquely qualified to provide. Press the attack.

Donald A. Osterberg

Eagle River, Wisconsin

Editors note: Col. Osterberg is retired U.S. Army
LEMMON | A great old bar in a South Dakota border town will not die as expected, though its resurrection as a highfalutin art gallery will certainly change up its history.

The Kokomo Inn was famous around those parts for decades  it had a cool name, and it was the closest bar when 18 was the legal drinking age on the south side of the border and 21 was operative on the North Dakota side.

Who knows how many cans of watery 3.2 Schlitz or Hamms beer were popped open by those young kids with nice farm town manners, some with a hoked-up drivers license? But it was enough to make mention in the towns history book, and it was the bar where generations probably sipped their first served beer.

Noni Hoff, 53, of Lemmon, said she did, but thats not why she remembers the place so fondly. She was good friends with one of the Raba kids  the family who started it back in the '30s  and they ran in the front door on Main Street and out the back to the alley like the joint was a second home.

It was a place you could just go. Other bars came and went, but it was the one that was always there, she said. It was special, a place you could be comfortable in. You didnt have to dress up.

The doors closed about eight years ago after the death of the last Raba family member, and the building eventually reverted to city ownership. The colorful Kokomo Inn sign painted on the buildings front faded in the western sun and the inside fell to wrack and ruin as rain and snowmelt made their way through the old roof.

Last summer, Lemmon scrap metal sculptor John Lopez got permission from the city to use the buildings exterior as a brick canvas for a mural to go along with turning the adjacent empty lot into Boss Cowman Square. The square honors the towns namesake, Ed Lemmon, famous for managing the largest fenced pasture in the world at 865,000 acres and bossing the single biggest cattle roundup in history.

The mural, painted by Nigerian artists, is a beautiful piece of work and, if the building ever went down, so would it.

Lopez works out of a studio near Lemmon and had come to the conclusion that he needed a gallery for his internationally recognized work, a place to showcase his pieces and meet with clients. The Kokomo Inn, dilapidated and beloved, was right there waiting for him.

Wherever I had a gallery, I wanted it next to a park for landscaping and to create an experience. I didnt realize it would be the Kokomo, said Lopez, who acquired the title from the city and went to work.

Turns out work is a small word for the gargantuan undertaking the renovations required throughout this past hard winter. Hed hoped to save the roof, but in the end  actually the beginning  it was clear it had to be removed and the building gutted and shored up.

His vision was a place of open, white simplicity, where his sculptures would speak for themselves.

I want to be taken seriously, so that, when people walk in, theyll get it, he said.

He recently completed Custers Last Stand, which will be his permanent installation at the gallery. Its been four years in the making from iron and found pieces, including a propane tank, shovel heads, snow chains, plow discs and even a bar stool from the old Kokomo Inn. Its as complex, detailed and imaginative as any work hes done. The piece features two life-sized buffalo engaged in mortal conflict, inset with bronzed likenesses of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and Chief Sitting Bull looking toward each other.

The colonel would die that day in 1876 in the Battle of the Little Big Horn, and Sitting Bull would ride on into history. Lopez tries to evoke the outcome in the expressions of the men and the stances of the buffalo in which the battle is being played out.

It goes beyond the gimmick; theres a story within a story, a sculpture within a sculpture, he says.

For now, the piece stands out in the prairie near his house, and soon it will be loaded up and moved into the gallery, where it will fit the open space. Lopez is keeping the Kokomo Inn name out front  it is iconic in Lemmon and happens to be the actual name of another Native American, Chief Kokomo of the Miami tribe that once populated the lower Great Lakes region. Word is old George Raba took a liking to the name when he came across it in Indiana and it stuck.

It has stuck and withstands the test of time, just as Lopez believes in his sculptures along with his commitment to Lemmons history.

While he intends the gallery to be a showroom for his art, he is making one important exception. Canvas paintings by his Nigerian artist friends of mural fame, Jonathan Imafidor and Dotun Popoola, were for sale in a weeklong exhibit last week with live music and other events.

The public is invited. For those, like Hoff, who remember the Kokomo Inns heyday so well, it might be a strange transition walking through that door into the past.

Its awesome that he saved the building, but its hard. Its like going back to your parents' house and finding someone remodeled it, Hoff said.
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. (AFNS) | Wichitas beloved B-29 Superfortress, Doc, took to the skies yet again June 9, 2017, from McConnell Air Force Base, this time with an added aspect of historical significance and Air Force heritage.

Sitting in the co-pilot seat was Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets IV, the 509th Bomb Wing commander. Taking control of the aircraft means he has now flown the only two currently operational B-29s, Doc and Fifi.

In 1998, Tibbets IV, flew Fifi with his grandfather, retired Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets Jr., who piloted the B-29 Enola Gay when the aircraft and its crew dropped an atomic bomb on Japan, helping end World War II.

The only time I ever flew with my grandfather was with Fifi, said Tibbets IV. He had given up aviation and had not flown in any aircraft in a very long time. He and I got to fly Fifi together, which was awesome. It was a great opportunity for me to be with him.

Now, 72 years after the historic WWII mission and nearly 10 years after the passing of his grandfather, Tibbets IV, who is traditionally a B-1 Lancer pilot and currently a B-2 Spirit pilot, once again boarded a B-29 to honor his grandfather.

Its really about upholding the legacy of those who have come before, he said. When we have the opportunity to embrace that kind of heritage and that kind of history, its a real privilege and an honor.

Before the flight, Docs pilot, Mark Novak, described the significance of having Tibbets IV on board.

Doc is a piece of history, and the Tibbets name is historic because anyone who knows WWII knows about the generals grandfather, Paul Tibbets Jr., said Novak. Ive known (Tibbets IV) for years and well each get a turn to fly. Itll be a great time to chat and catch up over our hour-long flight.

Tibbets IV emphasized his appreciation for the time and effort the volunteers put into restoring Doc and bringing this piece of history back to life.

When you think about Doc and you think about Fifi and all these warbirds that we have, theyre labors of love, he said. Were excited for (the volunteers), and their continued work. Theyre going to get to educate tens of thousands of people about the B-29 because they poured their heart and souls into this airplane. This helps us connect those that are here today to those that have come before us, and how important it is to understand what they did for us. This is what changed the world.

The flight took Doc to Whiteman AFB, Missouri to be part of the Wings Over Whiteman Airshow and open house June 10th and 11th, to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Air Force.
Moscow court to examine Total CEO plane crash case under special procedure

MOSCOW, June 19 (RAPSI, Oleg Sivozhelezov)  A court in Moscow will review the criminal case against the snow plow driver Vladimir Martynenko and lead airfield service engineer Vladimir Ledenev over the death of Total CEO Cristophe de Maergerie during the air crash in Russias Vnukovo airport under special procedure, RAPSI learnt in the court on Monday.

On Monday, the Solntsevsky District Court of Moscow held the preliminary hearings in the case. The court granted motions filed by Martynenko and Ledenev to review their case under special procedure after they pleaded guilty. The defendants are charged with violation of the rules for air traffic safety. The first hearing is set for June 30.

Earlier, the Moscow City Court upheld a ruling to return the case against other defendants, air traffic controller Alexander Kruglov, airport flight manager Roman Dunayev, and dispatcher Nadezhda Arkhipova to the prosecutors.

Christophe de Margerie died in a plane crash at Vnukovo airport on October 21, 2014, when his planes wing hit a snow plow. Among the victims were three crew members, all French citizens.

On October 25, 2016, the Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC) published its final report on investigation into the death de Maergerie. Authors of the report listed several factors, which, when combined, may have resulted in the plane crash. Among potential causes of the crash are: violation of regulations over control of alcohol use by drivers of special equipment, absence of equipment for listening to traffic controllers in snow plow machines, inefficient organization of work with subsystem of observation and control of airfield, no measures taken by the planes crew to prevent takeoff after receiving information about machine that intersects a road.
Russian Ministry of Justice proposes to extend jury trials to more cases

MOSCOW, June 19 (RAPSI)  The Russian Ministry of Justice has prepared a bill envisaging a wider use of the jury trial institution, the document published on its official website reads on Monday.

The bill introduces changes to the Criminal Procedural Code of Russia aimed to implement the decisions of the Constitutional Court regarding the cases in the framework of which the most severe punishments would not envisage a life imprisonment or death penalty.

Under the current law, women as well as men over age of 65 cannot be sentenced to exceptional measure of punishment and therefore their cases cant be reviewed by a jury trial. The Court found that provision to contradict the Constitution and ruled to lift the restriction in order to ensure equal access to justice.
European Union extends sanctions against Russia for yet another year

MOSCOW, June 19 (RAPSI)  The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia until June 23 of 2018, a statement from the organization reads on Monday.

The restrictive measures imposed by the European Union are related to reunification of Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia, deemed illegal annexation by the European Council.

The measures apply to EU citizens and companies registered in the EU member states. They are prohibited to import products from Crimea or Sevastopol into the EU territory, as well as to invest in the region, in particular, to acquire real estates or finance local enterprises, and supply related services. Cruise ships of EU member states should call at the peninsulas ports only in cases of emergency.

In a separate paragraph, the European Councils decision prohibits to export a number of goods and technologies to regional companies or for use in the region in the transport, telecommunications and energy sectors, as well as those related to the prospection, exploration and production of oil, gas and mineral resources. The Council of the European Union has also banned the provision of all kinds of technical assistance, brokering, construction or engineering services related to infrastructure in the said sectors.

These sanctions were first imposed in March 2014 and was repeatedly extended. Last time the restrictive measures were extended on June 17, 2016.
Russian antimonopoly watchdog issues warnings to Microsoft

Context Russian antimonopoly watchdog to consider case against Microsoft

MOSCOW, June 19 (RAPSI)  The Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) of Russia has issued several warnings to Microsoft Corporation, demanding the company to cease actions or inaction leading to restriction of competition, a statement of the service reads on Monday.

Earlier, during the review of a case against Microsoft, FAS has found out additional evidence that Microsoft imposed discriminative conditions on other developers. In particular, Microsoft was said to be restricting the format and terms of notifying users of antivirus programs created by third parties, failing to establish a two-way timely communication, and introducing complicated procedures of updating antivirus programs.

In addition, the service announced that Microsoft may have violated the legislation by employing certain methods inducing users to stop using antivirus programs made by third parties and to activate software made by Microsoft (Windows Defender). The corporation is to fix the violations in a month.
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RSS

BUTWAL, June 19: Home Minister Janardan Sharma has said the government is committed to strengthen the security system so that the people can exercise their voting rights in a free and peaceful manner in the second-phase local election on June 28.

Addressing a press conference held in Butwal on Monday, he said, "Security action plans would be formulated and implemented in line with the security plan prepared by the Central Security Committee so that the people in all the districts can vote freely without any inhibitions."

Information has been received of some untoward incidents taking place in course of filing of nomination on Sunday for the second-phase elections in Bajura, Sankhuwasabha and Kapilbastu, the Home Minister said, adding that the bodies concerned have been directed to carry out necessary investigations into these incidents and book the perpetrators. He also stated that the bodies concerned have been instructed to remain alert so that such incidents do not repeat.

"The culprits of the Kapilbastu incident would soon be brought to book after conducting a thorough investigation into the incident," he said, adding that the local level election in Province 2 has been deferred to address the dissatisfactions of the Madhes-centric parties and to create an environment in which the people can cast votes in safe atmosphere by ending the long-term conflict.

The Home Minister had arrived in Butwal to participate in the security seminar organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs here today. The seminar was centred on the security condition in the district and the security strategy. He stated that the seminar concluded with a commitment to guaranteeing the people to ensure a situation in which people can exercise their franchise in an easy and secured manner.

Information officer at the Rupandehi District Administration Office, Bishnu Gyawali, said the seminar concluded with a resolve to creating an environment in which voters can cast votes in a free, fair and fear-free manner and the election is held in a peaceful and rigging-free manner by keeping intact the law and order.

The Chief District Officers, the chiefs of the administrations and the chiefs of the district-based Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, Nepalese Army and the National Investigation Department of Rupandehi, Kapilbastu, Nawalparasi, Palpa, Gulmi and Arghakhanchi districts participated in the seminar.

Election Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Shah, Home Secretary Lok Darshan Regmi, Inspector General of Nepal Police Prakash Aryal, Inspector General of the Armed Police Force, Singha Bahadur Shrestha, among others also participated in the seminar.

Voters in six districts in Province 5 are going to the polls on June 28 to elect the people's representatives to the local levels. RSS
Kathmandu, Nepal : Jun 19, 2017- Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has sent a condolence message to Chancellor of the Federal Democratic Republic of Germany, Mrs. Angela Merkel, on the demise of Mr. Helmut Kohl, the former Chancellor of the Federal Democratic Republic of Germany.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in his message, Prime Minister Deuba, while expressing condolence on behalf of the people and the Government of Nepal to the people and the Government of Germany and to the bereaved family members on this sad news, has said that the former Chancellor will be remembered for the outstanding contribution he made for reuniting Germany as well as bringing peace and prosperity to the entire European Continent.

Prime Minister Deuba also recalled the visit of Helmut Kohl to Nepal in the eighties of the last century.

The former Chancellor died on Friday, June 16, morning in his home in Ludwigshafen, in western Germany. RSS
Kathmandu, Nepal: Even though the Rastriya Janata Party Nepal (RJPN) has not made any formal decision to withdraw the protest program launched against of the second phase of local level elections slated for June 28, the party leadership has faced extreme pressure to do so.

As several leaders from the party have not only filed their candidacies as independents to contest in the second phase of the local elections but also begun to leave the party to join other parties, the party has no alternatives of either to correct the decision or to face the severe consequence in the party.

The party did everything to disturb the candidacy filing program on Sunday in Teria districts even exploding a bomb and imposing general strikes to foil the election program, but its local leaders fielded their candidacy in some Teria districts.

It is said that the RJPN leaders and cadres had filed their candidacy in more than 15 municipalities and rural municipalities of Kapilvastu, Rupandehi and Nawalaparasi districts. These three districts are considered as comparatively stronghold of the Tarai Madhes Loktantrik Party, one of the six constituents of the RJP. The patty had won two seats from Rupandehi in the second CA elections in 2013.

With the fielding the candidacy, the party has to turn its anti-election campaign into election campaigns in these three districts. The central leaders presented at Province 5 with intent to stop the cadres and local leaders from filing candidacy, but their efforts failed to bear any fruit.

Similarly, expressing serious dissatisfaction over the party leadership, central treasurer of the party Anita Yadav left the party to join in the CPN UML. She was welcomed by CPN UML chairman K P Sharma amidst a special function organized at the party headquarters in Dhumbarahi on Monday.

Earlier, RJPN Joint General Secretary Samim Miyan Ansari had joined the UML. The incident of leaving the party to join in the UML is taken meaningfully as the RJPN has been labeling the UML as the anti Madhesi party.
Supreme Court (SC) of Nepal

Kathmandu, Nepal: Responding to a writ filed to stop the second round of local polls in 11 districts in the Terai region on June 28, the Supreme Court (SC) the apex court of the country has on Monday summoned the agitating Rastriya Janata Party Nepal (RJPN) and the government before june 22, the date fixed to give a final verdict over the case.

A single bench of Justice Om Prakash Aryal made the verdict over the writ petition filed by the Advocate Supanil Kumar Patel. Advocate Patel had filed the writ at the SC demanding to halt the second round of civic polls in 11 districts of province number 2 and 5 in the Terai region.
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London police, already stretched by a series of major incidents around the capital, are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public after a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured.
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If there is one short film that can speak for itself, evincing its obvious talents through nothing but images, its Curve. Even so, we couldnt pass up on the opportunity of interviewing its diabolical creator, writer-director Tim Egan.

While he was visiting the Transylvania International Film Festival we got together over Skype and dove into the dark depths of Curve.

(Attention all genre fans: if you still havent seen Curve yet, do so now! Its easy, just click here.)

ScreenAnarchy: You have to tell me Tim, whats the secret to Australia and excellent genre cinema? Youve got Greg McLean, Sean Byrne, Jennifer Kent, Ben Young, Damian Power, and thats just the tip of the iceberg. There is so much talent coming from Australia these past couple of years.

Tim Egan: Yeah! I dont know. I honestly dont have a clear answer, but its wonderful to see. I remember just a few years ago, the first time I saw Jennifers Kent The Babadook, and it was just phenomenal filmmaking; a wonderful sort of .. I dont know if pure is the right word but, genre filmmaking has always been really strong in Australia. It goes through periods of trying to mimic the U.S. or trying to provide, like, B-movies to the U.S., it obviously went through the Ozploitation phase. We have had a strong personal voice in Australia and I think maybe were getting that back.

I imagine you have really good film schools and institutions that nurture talent?

We do, yes! We always have. And you get sort of trends or fashions going through those schools. Obviously youve got the teachers but also the students themselves; strong personalities coming through that can really shape a whole batch of filmmakers. One starts to go in a genre direction and that inspires someone else. The schools have always been of a high quality and tend to put out great craftsmen. But when you get a wave of something, its hard to pinpoint where exactly that started. A lot of the time I think its filmmakers inspiring each other. I think at the moment were seeing a couple of great genre films, just worldwide really. Theres a newfound maturity with genre; not that I dont love wonderfully immature genre as well [Laughs.] Its just great to see the overall love.

Roughly 14 months after its Tribeca world premiere CURVE is still making the rounds at festivals. It seems to have played almost every country in the world and praise has been sort of unanimous. Have you gotten used to the widespread critical acclaim?

When you make the film, you absolutely dont know. [] When the idea comes to you, the reason why you decide to spend all this time making the film is Yeah, Id be interested in seeing that. After that, you have no idea whether youre making a good or a bad film. You just put everything you can into it and we crafted Curve as well as we could. We had great people doing the designs of the set and sound.

But when you get to the end of the day and finish it  I remember the first screening I had with just a couple of friends and my family and if anyones gonna give you a positive response, thats a pretty safe group. And I was still terrified; I had no idea what anyone was going to think. I wasnt sure if it was going to be liked, even by my closest friends. Then there was a moment when Tribeca called, that was the first person who wasnt related to me or a close personal friend and said I saw it and I loved it. That was a moment where I thought maybe its ok [Laughs.]

I think it did so well, universally, because Curve deals with very universal fears and, being wordless, it translates very easily. But no, you never get used to it and its amazing but when someone comes up to you even once and says Hey man, I didnt really like it, you go Yeah, I know, its terrible  you instantly believe that guy rather than other people.

The concept of CURVE is elegantly simple: theres a young woman in danger, a sloping surface and an unseen threat at the bottom of an abyss. You tap into various fears at once that, as you mentioned, feel universal: Fear of the unknown, fear of falling, fear of heights, even fear of open spaces. What possessed you to come up with such an utterly terrifying situation and what prompted the basic set-up of CURVE?

Well, you dont know at the time. The idea just occurs to you  You have to sort of look backwards and figure out what was in your own head that sort of kicked the idea out.

I was in a car accident several years ago. A car ran though a red light when I was crossing the street; it came out of nowhere, I barely saw it. The next few seconds I rolled in front of the car, into the middle of traffic  All of those emotions, the split second where I realized Id gone from my life is in danger, I must do something to try and save myself, to sort of a serious physical impact to being thrown into the middle of the road and knowing that if theres another car in the next lane its gonna be [BAM]  I could open my eyes and it could be there [that found its way into Curve].

I remember very clearly sort of putting my hands down, trying to grab onto the ground, like having a good grip would save me somehow against cars smashing into me. I certainly didnt think of any of that while I was writing the script but you can see all those little moments pop up in Curve.

The other thing that inspired Curve are discussions Ive had with various people dealing with strong psychological problems and serious depression. A person once told me a story that the best part of her day were the two or three seconds after she woke because her brain had forgotten it was depressed. And Im not an expert in depression or anxiety but that was how it manifested for her. I just remember the sort of dropping of the stomach-feel when she told me that; to be reminded of all these horrible things. And she sort of felt like the world opens up beneath you and you spend the rest of the day just trying to hold on.

When you look back that sort of has to be the DNA where it came from.

What I love about CURVE is that its immediately engaging on a visceral level as a very stylishly told story about a woman desperately trying to hold on for dear life, attempting to survive even though the odd seem entirely against her, but it also works as a metaphor for psychological distress. Is this the type of genre film you admire most? Fantastical works that can operate on multiple levels?

Absolutely. Thats also something Im always looking at in other films: the foundations and the levels at which you have to build a story. For me theres nothing more important than the base level, the core things that human beings need: the survival instinct as it were. And if your film doesnt work on that basic level  simple, strong base emotions  it doesnt matter how many metaphors you put on top; the structures gonna fall over. So, for me the most important thing was getting her situation and panic right. If someone came and said to me I didnt get anything from your film but I found the situation very intense and wanted her to survive, thats enough for me. If you can find other things that are added on: great! [] But it has to work on that emotional level first.

I find the lack of context a very bold choice on your part and a unique manner of engaging the audience, who cant help but wonder: Who is this person? Where is she? Who dropped her on that curved surface and what on earth did she do to deserve this punishment?

Absolutely, yes.

Was a less-is-more approach what you were aiming for from the get-go?

Yeah, and thats something a few people have brought up actually. They wanted to know why she was there and it left them a bit cold that I didnt tell them. I can totally understand that. For me, certainly the stories that I like to write, if you give an audience any more than the barest that they need youve painted it too much on the canvas. I like it when you give someone three things and it totally lets them fill in the blanks; they can take the film where they want to take it.

I was going to give a few other affectations to Lauras wardrobe but I ended up just keeping it as simple as possible. She was just any person; Laura created an internal character of her own but we wanted it to feel as if this could have happened to anybody. I thought for a second that she might have a dog leash, as if shed been out walking the dog and somehow ended up here. But I took that out because I figured everyone was gonna spend the whole time thinking what happened to the poor dog? You dont want to muddy the story with that [Laughs.]

I just wanted to give people a few simple, powerful things and they take it wherever they like. And I love hearing peoples stories about how they think she did survive. Where they think the story went next. And peoples stories about why they think shes there. As a creator of anything, to have someone take your piece, adding to it and expanding it, thats fantastic. So yeah, always less is more!

You already brought up Laura Jane Turner and we have to talk about her formidable performance. How did you discover her and how did you prepare her for this role? It must have been a challenging shoot.

Oh yeah, it was tough on her. I explained it would be a difficult and physically uncomfortable role to play. It was a warm summer in Melbourne, we had to sprinkle her with rain, she had to fold her legs under her, slide around  Really give a performance where you are in physical distress. But she was a total professional.

I reached out to every actor and director I knew in Melbourne and said Is there anyone you think would be appropriate? We did an open call, we looked at a lot of reels and it was really about who could give that sort of performance. Originally I thought I wanted the role to be a bit older, to make it even less likely shed survive, I suppose, but the big thing that the actress needed to be able to do was to tell the story and the character completely without the use of any words; and explain what she was doing, how she was gonna climb the wall, what she was planning. It all needed to be there in her eyes.

She needed to convince us that she was in mortal danger. The last thing was the moment when the rain does fall, that she could still be heartbroken but resilient. Thats my favorite part of the film, when she sort of decides to keep pushing. In the end Laura was recommended by an actor friend of mine and she was able to convince us of all that in our casting room, basically my lounge room, on a couch. If you can do it there, I figured you should be fine when we get you up on a stone wall. And she did. She carries the film.

The shot sequence or really the visual rhythm of CURVE makes it impossible for audiences to turn away and really makes this a 9-minute edge-of-your-seat nightmare. Was it difficult to edit your short and did you storyboard things ahead of the shoot or did you figure out the sequence in post-production?

I shot the film entirely using a piece of polystyrene that a friend of mine had shaped, a small doll and my phone. So the whole film was storyboarded, every shot, every angle. We were quite specific and the final edit is pretty close to that original sequence. We did go back for some reshoots, which is hard when you destroyed the set [Laughs.] but we definitely were well-prepared.

Editing is always difficult because you know the story very well so you quickly get bored with it. And then you wanna put in everything because you know how much good stuff youve got. The edit tends to waver from 7 to 12 minutes, back and forth a couple of times. Sometimes when I watch it now, its too slow, sometimes I feel its just right. You never stop working on these things but most of it is on the page in the storyboard, and not much was left to chance in post-production.

What we did really work at in post was some of the CG additions, like the other side of the wall and the expanse, which was designed by a company in Melbourne (FloodSlicer) that donated their services. We went through a few ideas. I thought that perhaps there might be another giant drain out there or something but they came back and said look, it should just be sort of a repetition of this shape over and over again. And as a friend of mine quite aptly pointed out, that made it feel like an abattoir to him; like this is going on everywhere.

This film was always gonna be very heavily driven by sound; thats another thing we worked on in post. We did a lot of extra recordings. We went to underground environments, in some drains around Victoria, and a lot of intense scratching  all that stuff. Then finally the sound designer Craig Jansson did a magnificent job in that he created the sound that came up from the pit. That was the one thing we had totally left to post. We tried hundreds of things in that spot and nothing was right. It needed to be either a machine or an animal with some kind of intelligence, and thats very angry. And he came back with that; when he played that, we were like all right, the film is done [Laughs.]

What can we expect from you in the future? Anything you can share with us at this point?

Im looking at a few different things that Im considering to do next. I dont get many ideas, to be honest, that I want to spend years working on. And you have to be willing to spend years on a film. So you really want something that just totally consumes you. One thing I really like is the possibility of shorter long form. I get a lot of ideas for hour-long works; there arent that many that I want to go into the full ninety minutes for.

And there are a few short film ideas as well. Theres a feature that Im writing at the moment that isnt based on the story of Curve but could well be in that universe. Id like to think that in this feature at some point they could easily meet Lauras character. It could theoretically be an extended world. Its unusual and its also with a singular person focus; using very human tools this person tries to solve a supernatural problem, which is something I really like.
And here it is, a rather unassuming but sturdy hard cardboard slipcase. Inside the slipcase are a digipak and a booklet. So far, so normal. The contents taken out of the slipcase. The contents opened. The reverse art on the Digipak, showing two of the three principal wardens. So far, no sign yet of Meiko, the ultra-voluptuous vice-president who can be considered to be the series' calling card (slash mascot). The booklet is a softcover one, and 40 pages thick. In it, you get episode overviews, character designs, background art, and an interview with director Mizushima Tsutomu (also of xxxHOLIC, Shirobaku and Girls und Panzer fame...). The (back)end of a fine, if not particularly memora... hey, what's this? The backside is a flyer which can be easily removed, revealing... Meiko! There she is! Yes, Anime Limited have given the boxset's backside an ample dose of the vice-president's frontside. It's a 3D lenticular image, to get the points across even better. As a collector of lenticular images, I had to laugh. If you are one of those persons who can see 3D images by looking cross-eyed, you can use the bottom two images to check this. If you're one of those RARE persons who can see 3D images by looking wide-eyed (which is better but bloody hard), or who use a stereoscope of some kind, check the top two images. And that marks the end for real!

Japanese animation can be decidedly frown-worthy at times. There are of course the infamous hardcore porn series, which are called "hentai" (meaning "pervert" or "perverse"), but for audiences who are grossed-out by those there is a wide selection of softcore "ecchi", a word meaning "naughty" in a sexual way.And then of course, there is sexual fanservice, occasional steps into "ecchi" or "hentai" which happen in series which are, in itself, not really about sex. As you can imagine, these definitions are not exactly strict, leading to quite some blurred areas (pun not intended).is a series which defies easy pegging, though for safety's sake I'd label it "ecchi". In it, five students are the first boys to be allowed to join a prestigious boarding school for girls, but after being caught peeking in the girls' shower area, they get a choice: be expelled or be sent to a special prison wing, where for one month they will be the masochistic playthings of several sadistic female wardens. The boys all choose the prison wing and things get very weird after that.Likerelentlessly spoofs fanservice, "ecchi" and "hentai" while providing lots of it as well. It's satire by way of exaggeration, and while it walks a sleazy path, it constantly asks you "Is THIS what you wanted?" and, should the answer be a yes, "WHY THE HELL is this what you wanted?"Anime Limited released the series on Blu-ray in the UK last week, and I couldn't help but laugh when I saw what the cheeky distributor from Scotland had done with it. So here is a gallery of shots. Click on the edge of the pictures to scroll through them, or at the center of each to see a bigger version!
The Canada Communications Security Establishment (CSE) published a report that reveals that hackers will attempt to hack into 2019 countrys Election.

The Canada Communications Security Establishment (CSE) published a report that reveals that cyber criminals and hacktivists had leaked sensitive government documents, and attempted to hack into 2015 countrys Election.

The hackers targeted candidates and spread disinformation and propaganda in order to influence the vote. According to the CSE, the low sophistication attacks did not impact the outcome of the election.

The CSE warns of possible interference in the forthcoming 2019 election, especially of hacktivist groups.

According to the CSE, 13 percent of countries holding national elections in 2017 are targets of cyber attacks even more sophisticated.

We judge that, almost certainly, multiple hacktivist groups will deploy cyber capabilities in an attempt to influence the democratic process in 2019, states the CSE report. The Canadian intelligence believes that hackers will increasingly adopt more sophisticated techniques threatening 2019 elections and politicians.

Clearly, Canadian Intelligence fears possible interference like the one observed in the US and French President campaigns. The Canadian intelligence avoided referring Russia or other states as potential opponents.

The Canadian intelligence believes that hackers will increasingly adopt more sophisticated techniques threatening 2019 elections and politicians.

The CSE report confirmed that the Anonymous collective leaked secret documents in 2015 on Canadian diplomatic missions and the size of Canadadia spy network overseas in order to damage the candidate Tories during the election campaign.

CSE report also warns of Nation-state actors that could launch for the first time their offensive against Canadas democracy.

State-sponsored hackers may target politicians and parties involved in the 2019 election depending on how Canadas nation-state adversaries perceive Canadas foreign and domestic policies, and on the spectrum of policies espoused by Canadian federal candidates in 2019.
 Could jail be "the answer" for drug addicts? | Main | SCOTUS summarily reverses Sixth Circuit reversal of Ohio death sentence 

June 18, 2017

"Days of Future Past: A Plea for More Useful and More Local Legal Scholarship"

The title of this post is the title of this notable new paper now available on SSRN and authored Frank Bowman. Though not directly about sentencing, Frank's history as a fantastic sentencing scholar and reform advocate surely helped shape his perspective on the issues he discusses (and also surely helped me and this blog get a shout-out in footnote 81). Here is article's abstract:

Legal scholarship is at an inflection point because the legal education industry, to which legal scholarship is merely an internally overvalued appendage, is passing from a period of affluent abundance to a period of relative austerity. Scarcity stimulates self-examination. This essay describes how the population explosion in American law schools during the 1990s and the simultaneous rise of the U.S. News rankings mania created a kind of tulip bubble in legal scholarship - a bubble that is rapidly, and properly, deflating. I make several concededly retrograde recommendations for dealing with a post-bubble world, including changing law school hiring practices to favor professors with more legal experience than has long been the fashion, assessing scholarship more by effect and less by placement, and devoting more of our scholarly attention to questions of state law and practice. These suggestions all flow from the basic premise that we should more consciously encourage, even if we do not limit ourselves to, producing legal scholarship that has practical value to legal and business professionals and to policy makers at every level of American government. That premise, in turn, is based on the conviction that a modestly more pragmatic approach to the scholarly project is good for society and is, in any case, a sensible response to the parlous state of the legal education industry. I even go so far as to suggest that increased pragmatism and localism in legal scholarship will assist law schools in the U.S. News rankings wars.

June 18, 2017 at 09:55 PM | Permalink

Comments

Because of the physical nature of all legal procedures, empirical evidence should be required for all proposed laws and regulations. They should be tested in small jurisdictions, and shown to be safe and effective. The unintended consequences should be enumerated, and assessed prior to testing in larger jurisdictions.

Legislators and regulators should compensate the victims damaged by their carelessness. They should be required to carry insurance. Because punishment is the sole tool of the law, their mistakes all qualify for strict liability.

The decision extending immunity to the states from their own citizens violates the Eleventh Amendment. It should be ended by federal legislation. The Eleventh Amendment itself should be repealed because it violates the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments.

I prefer analyses based on utility. I am aware of the criticisms of utilitarianism. However, it remains the best philosophical approach to empirical analysis of the law. The method of analysis should be decided by the voters.



Posted by: David Behar | Jun 18, 2017 11:49:01 PM

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 "Days of Future Past: A Plea for More Useful and More Local Legal Scholarship" | Main | By a 5-4 vote, SCOTUS decides failure of Alabama courts to provide expert mental health assistance to capital defendant was unreasonable 

June 19, 2017

SCOTUS summarily reverses Sixth Circuit reversal of Ohio death sentence

The US Supreme Court this morning issued this order list that did not include any grants of certiorari, but did include a summary reversal in the Ohio capital habeas case of Jenkins v. Hutton, No. 16-1116 (S. Ct. June 19, 2017) (available here). Here are some key passages from this brief per curiam opinion:

According to Hutton, the court gave the jurors insufficient guidance [when deciding on whether to recommend a death sentence] because it failed to tell them that, when weighing aggravating and mitigating factors, they could consider only the two aggravating factors they had found during the guilt phase. Hutton, however, had not objected to the trial courts instruction or raised this argument on direct appeal, and the District Court on federal habeas concluded that his due process claim was procedurally defaulted.... Nonetheless, the Sixth Circuit held that the [miscarriage of justice] exception justified reviewing his claim. The court gave two reasons: First, Hutton was not eligible to receive a death sentence because the jury had not made the necessary finding of the existence of aggravating circumstances. 839 F.3d, at 498499. And second, since the trial court gave the jury no guidance as to what to consider as aggravating circumstances when weighing aggravating and mitigating factors, the record did not show that the jurys death recommendation was actually based on a review of any valid aggravating circumstances. Id., at 500.... The Sixth Circuit was wrong to reach the merits of Huttons claim.... Hutton has not argued that the trial court improperly instructed the jury about aggravating circumstances at the guilt phase. Nor did the Sixth Circuit identify any such error. Instead, the instruction that Hutton contends is incorrect, and that the Sixth Circuit analyzed, was given at the penalty phase of trial. That penalty phase instruction plainly had no effect on the jurys decision  delivered after the guilt phase and pursuant to an unchallenged instruction  that aggravating circumstances were present when Hutton murdered Mitchell. The Sixth Circuits second reason for reaching the merits rests on a legal error. Under Sawyer, a court may review a procedurally defaulted claim if, but for a constitutional error, no reasonable jury would have found the petitioner eligible for the death penalty. 505 U.S., at 336 (emphasis added). Here, the alleged error was the trial courts failure to specify that, when weighing aggravating and mitigating factors, the jury could consider only the aggravating circumstances it found at the guilt phase. Assuming such an error can provide a basis for excusing default, the Sixth Circuit should have considered the following: Whether, given proper instructions about the two aggravating circumstances, a reasonable jury could have decided that those aggravating circumstances outweighed the mitigating circumstances.

June 19, 2017 at 09:51 AM | Permalink

Comments

Another day, another 'rat judge getting clowned by SCOTUS. Just how dumb is "Judge" Bernice Donald?

Posted by: federalist | Jun 19, 2017 10:49:07 AM

Doug, the Sixth Circuit's decision, IMHO, is indefensible. What does that say about Judge Donald?

Posted by: federalist | Jun 19, 2017 1:50:29 PM

Judge Merritt joined in here, based in part on death is different reasoning. And that, I think, is the heart of the story. Some judges in lower federal courts, as well as some Justices, seem to believe that any and every problem identified in the imposition of a death sentence demands a reversal.

Posted by: Doug B. | Jun 19, 2017 8:50:14 PM

Doug, that's a professorial way of saying that some judges are lawless. It's a remarkable concession.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 19, 2017 9:51:31 PM

First, federalist, this is not what I said. If I said that some judges in lower federal courts, as well as some Justices, seem to believe that any and every form of government torture demands some redress, would that be saying some judges are lawless, or rather really just saying that some judges believe the law does not permit torture to go without redress. In this setting, I suspect, Judges Donald and Merritt sincerely believe they are ruling consistent to the law of the Constitution and applicable statutes as they see it (though SCOTUS obviously had a different view). Staying in the capital arena, I think Justice Breyer genuinely believes the Constitution now demands prohibition of capital punishment. I do not think that makes him "lawless," that makes him subject to a different view of the law than you hold.

Moreover, even if you want to embrace the provocative term "lawless" here to describe what I am saying about how federal judges approach their job of reviewing state death sentences, such a statement is not really a concession OR remarkable at all, federalist, if you understand academic legal thought throughout the 20th Century. The Legal Realists astutely --- and I think rightly --- observed at the start of the 20th Century that formal law is often less central to the work of judges than various political and moral commitments. Later in the 20th Century, the Critical Legal Studies Movement suggested that all law and judicial decision-making is politics and any effort to champion law as independent from politics is itself a pernicious political move. In other words, law professors for a century have been saying, in one professorial way or another, that "some judges are lawless."

Posted by: Doug B | Jun 20, 2017 11:01:54 AM

First of all, Doug, even if Breyer gets to vote a certain way and call it his view of what the Constitution demands, Judge Donald does not. She is bound by the Supreme Court's interpretation of AEDPA. She clearly did not adhere to it. You attempt to elide this with some idea of "legal realism"--but the bottom line, it seems to me, is that you've conceded that Donald believes that every problem (whatever that means) demands a reversal--with the implication being that she acted on that belief and thus decided the way she did. But that is decidedly NOT how AEDPA works, and AEDPA is the law of the land. In another thread you conceded that appeals court judges not following AEDPA is problematic--your discussion here shows significant tension with that earlier statement.

I think you are trying to wriggle out of the obvious import of your commentary. It is undeniable that Donald's reasoning was weak and that she did not follow AEDPA--either she was willful (i.e., lawless), incompetent (I mean c'mon, she knows what AEDPA requires--not like the Sixth Circuit hasn't been reminded of that a lot) or both. Trying to hide that behind "legal realism" is a losing hand and you know it.

I understand--you can't come out and say "lawless" or "incompetent"--but what other explanation is there for the failure to follow AEDPA and the obvious botching of the Sawyer standard? "Legal realism"??? Seriously?

Posted by: federalist | Jun 20, 2017 12:11:06 PM

federalist, I think you wrongfully believe that I am trying to defend the decision below. I am only trying to explain it in response to your query, and the explanation I am giving is that some judges will strain to find ways to reverse a state death sentence they think wrongful; these judges seems to view AEDPA as a hurdle to be overcome rather than a law to be respected. These judges, I suspect, genuinely think not only "close enough for government work" is not good enough for a death sentence, but also that Congress in AEDPA did not "really" mean to allow faulty state death sentences to be upheld by federal courts.

Label this reality however you want, but I see it as no more "lawless" than a whole lot of other criminal adjudication both for and against the state that seems driven principally by a desire to get to a particular result (e.g., the majority opinion of the NC Supreme Court in Packingham). And I am not sure what you think I am trying to wriggle out of, but I am sure these realities are, in my view, just another example/variation on legal realism and CLS, both of which highlight that judges and other legal actors with an agenda (conscious or unconscious) can often find a way to "use" the law to reach any number of desired results.

Posted by: Doug B. | Jun 20, 2017 8:41:25 PM

Doug--as you know, I harshly criticized the NC Supreme Court in Packingham.

Your explanation is what I am getting at--you refrain from saying "lawless," but then you say that a lower court judge "strain[ed]" to get to a particular result--even though that result is plainly at odds with how SCOTUS has interpreted AEDPA (numerous times). What you describe with respect to this decision, notwithstanding the labels, is decidedly not how judging is supposed to work.

Doesn't Ohio, as a litigant, have a right to judges who don't "strain"? One would think so.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 21, 2017 8:50:24 AM

I agree, federalist, that all litigants have a right to adjudication by judges who are not results-oriented. And yet, as I think the Realists and the Crits have long highlighted, human realities and socialization likely contributes to all judges being results-oriented in at least some ways and in some cases. The Chief Justice used the "umpire" metaphor in his confirmation hearings because it is so very appealing as a simplistic account of judging. But sophisticated lawyers (and surely the Chief himself) know the reality of judging is much more dynamic and messy.

Moreover, and explaining the AEDPA reality in capital cases, I think a significant number of judges and lawyers would say it is appropriate and perhaps even constitutionally required to "strain" to find ways to question death sentences. If and when one believes that life is a value qualitatively above all others (both morally and in our Constitutional structure), then one should "strain" to safeguard that value. Again, I am not endorsing this view of adjudication, just trying to explain what leads to the judicial actions we see in this capital case and some others.

Posted by: Doug B | Jun 21, 2017 11:17:26 AM

Doug, I know you aren't supporting. What you are doing is damning Judge Donald . . . .and not acknowledging that's the import of your words.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 21, 2017 12:39:07 PM

I am committed, here and elsewhere, to trying to understand and explain the work of judges, federalist, not damn them. I know you and some others are often eager to damn judges, and you might want to use my words to make your case. But know that it is you who are doing the damning.

Posted by: Doug B. | Jun 21, 2017 2:13:46 PM

Understanding and explaining can be damning . . . . your words do just that. You don't use the language of 'rat judges (that's almost as good as the "wise [sic] Latina")--but saying that a judge "strain[ed]" to get to a result that helped a capital murderer in the face of specific and well-settled law is probably more damning than asking "what is it with 'rat judges and AEDPA"? (By the by, there's no indication that, even without AEDPA, the Ohio Supreme Court made reversible error in the Sutton case.)

Posted by: federalist | Jun 21, 2017 4:21:26 PM

This is a somewhat amusing thread. Judge Bernice Donald stiffed a litigant (the State of Ohio) and, let's face it, justice by "strain[ing]" to reach a result and along the way treated a law as a hurdle and something not to be "respected." These are the words of a law professor at a prestigious law school.

I wonder what Bill Otis would say.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 22, 2017 9:22:39 AM

federalist, what strikes me as most amusing is your surprise that I call them like I see them and/or that this thread of commentary could not be applied in lots of other settings. I can give you cites to literally hundreds of opinions in which state and federal judges appeared to be straining to avoid the "hurdle" of rulings like Apprendi and Blakely which they plainly did not "respect."

Heck, Justice Breyer in Harris said he was not yet ready to "accept" Apprendi. And Justice Scalia in Plata essentially called for distorting the plain meaning of the PLRA law to stiff prisoners in California because he plainly did not like that it allowed for prisoner release orders.

As I see it, federalist, you are doing an amusing lawyer version of Captain Louis Renault in this thread by being "shocked -- shocked -- to find that a law professor recognizes that judges can be results-oriented in their decision-making."



Posted by: Doug B | Jun 22, 2017 10:07:32 AM

First of all, Doug, Scalia's opinion in Plata, which deals with the limitations of judicial fact-finding etc. wasn't distorting squat. And Breyer, you do realize that he is a Supreme Court Justice who openly announced his view, which, of course, makes his Apprendi statement a virtue.

Your attempt to lump in Donald's oeuvre with Breyer and Scalia is telling.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 22, 2017 12:16:41 PM

federalist, aren't we are discussing judges straining to avoid a result they do not like based on a law they do not respect? I can see no other way to describe what Breyer is doing in Harris, and while you want to applaud his candor, I find disturbing that he feels it proper not to "accept" a precedent because he does not like where that precedent leads. And here is what Scalia said in Plata: "There comes before us, now and then, a case whose proper outcome is so clearly indicated by tradition and common sense, that its decision ought to shape the law, rather than vice versa." In other words, says Scalia here, a result that makes sense to me seems so justified by other factors, I feel we should "shape the law" to get that result rather than follow the law to another result. Perhaps you would praise Judge Donald if, at the end her opinion, she quoted this line and said that her view of "tradition and common sense" helped lead her to her ruling even though some might see the law differently.

My point is not to assert that all of these decisions are identical, but rather to highlight just two of so many possible examples of judges with a particular desired result in mind straining to elide a law that they did not like/respect. If you want still other examples, I can give you plenty, plenty more from state court or lower federal court. But I would think you savvy enough to get these fundamentally legal realist/Crit points. Indeed, I will say again that what amazes me is Renault-like amazement that a law professor would call out judges for being results-oriented in decision-making. Assailing jurists for being results-oriented is part of the daily bread of the legal academy.

Posted by: Doug B | Jun 22, 2017 5:02:22 PM

First of all: Breyer dissented in Apprendi--there is nothing wrong with continuing to vote that way and assert his view of the Consitution--he is a Supreme Court Justice--Thomas does the same thing with the FAA (Federal Arbitration Act)--that is the quintessential judicial function at the SCOTUS level. Had Donald said, "Look, I don't care that SCOTUS has said X, I believe Y and I am going to rule according to Y", then at least her defiance (as a lower court judge) is out in the open. And as for Scalia in Plata--come on--do we really need to revisit that nonsense--i.e., that releasing criminals could increase public safety? And Scalia makes absolutely valid points

Second of all, there's "results-oriented" and then there's "results-oriented"--Donald asserted that the Ohio Supreme Court's judgment didn't withstand AEDPA--that's just plain wrong, and your posts here in gentle terms, but unmistakable import, call her out. You've acknowledged that Ohio, as a litigant, was shortchanged and that she ignored black-letter law. That others do it is no excuse, and you are trying to avoid the import of your words.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 22, 2017 7:25:02 PM

federalist, you are the one trying to avoid the import of Justice Scalia's words in Plata where he stated, in no uncertain terms, that the law should be "shaped" rather than followed to reach his desired result. The only difference is that you like the result Scalia strained to reach because he did not like aspects of PLRA, whereas you do not like the result that Donald strained to reach because she seemingly does not like aspects of AEDPA. You can admire Scalia's candor, but you really must admit that he is stating in no uncertain terms in Plata that he believes the law should follow desired case outcome rather than to have the outcome follow from the law.

In the end, your quaint statement about the difference --- there's "results-oriented" and then there's "results-oriented" --- may get to the nub of this all. You may think it fine to be results-oriented in favor of the state and public safety, but not so in favor of criminal defendants and individual rights. But some would say the Constitution (whether in original or living spirit) demands the inverse so that judges should always err on the side of defendants and individual rights. I am not asserting that Donald here is being more faithful to our Constitution than Scalia was in Plata, but she might well think she is (just like Breyer surely really thinks the Constitution now calls for declaring the death penalty per se unconstitutional).

Posted by: Doug B. | Jun 22, 2017 10:48:35 PM

Doug, you rip Scalia's words out of context--I am going off memory, but what Scalia was getting at was the inherent limitations of the judicial process in the public litigation context. Congress, of course, is presumed to legislate against that backdrop. And, of course, Scalia is open and forthright about it.

Donald either didn't know better, or knew and didn't care. Huge difference, and you know it.

As for my thumb on the scale, I think you'd be very very hard-pressed to find a single statement of mine that shows that I believe that individual rights should be blown off.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 23, 2017 9:07:44 AM

Here is more context to refresh your memory, federalist: After the sentence I quoted, Scalia says "One would think that, before allowing the decree of a federal district court to release 46,000 convicted felons, this Court would bend every effort to read the law in such a way as to avoid that outrageous result. Today, quite to the contrary, the Court disregards stringently drawn provisions of the governing statute, and traditional constitutional limitations upon the power of a federal judge, in order to uphold the absurd." Again, I give Scalia points for candor: after having called for the law to be "shaped" a certain way, he then expects judges to "bend every effort to read the law in such a way" to avoid a result that he considers "outrageous."

You can try to put as much lipstick on the Plata pig as you would like, but it is really the same story as what Donald does (albeit with more candor). Scalia did not like that a federal statute, PLRA, supported a result he disliked (a big prisoner release order), and he advocated for judges to shape/bend that law to avoid a result he did not like. Similarly, Donald did not like that a federal statute, AEPDA, supported a result she disliked (affirming a death sentence she thought flawed), and she ruled that the law could be interpreted to avoid a result she did not like.

To the extent there is a real difference, federalist, it ultimately goes to whether judges "ought to shape the law" and "bend every effort to read the law in such a way" to help the state or to help criminal defendants. Reasonable arguments can be made in either direction based on the US Constitution and on the basis of other structural and moral considerations. But what is not reasonable is to suggest that only "bad" or "'rat" judges are interested in shaping/bending the law to reach certain results. All judges do this in some way or another, and many judges, like the late Justice Scalia, plainly think it appropriate to expressly advocate that judges do exactly this kind of results-oriented judging.

Posted by: Doug B | Jun 23, 2017 12:30:36 PM

Doug, you get it so wrong on Scalia, I don't know where to start. First of all, by using the passive voice, Scalia is showing that events/traditions etc., which are outside of judicial control, should shape (inform) how a judge does his/her work (he has another similar quote on the First Amendment). Wow. Plus, Scalia invoked absurdity, which is a time-honored judicial doctrine. WOW. Plus, he's arguing that the order violated PLRA. So please stop. You are 100% wrong on this. It's embarrassing.

Donald, on the other hand, failed to apply a straightforward standard with tons of SCOTUS opinions saying, yes, AEDPA means this. And maybe reasonable arguments re: AEDPA can be made, but at this point, it is unreasonable to hold, as a lower court judge, that AEDPA doesn't mean what it says about the requirement of unreasonability on the part of the state court judges.

Posted by: federalist | Jun 23, 2017 4:17:22 PM

did not see your last comment until now, federalist, and I just wanted to conclude by quoting in full the Scalia passage that I think quite fairly shows the late Justice advocating for outcome-oriented statutory interpretation:

"There comes before us, now and then, a case whose proper outcome is so clearly indicated by tradition and common sense, that its decision ought to shape the law, rather than vice versa. One would think that, before allowing the decree of a federal district court to release 46,000 convicted felons, this Court would bend every effort to read the law in such a way as to avoid that outrageous result."

Scalia says here, in no uncertain terms, that he think a view of the "proper outcome" in this case "ought to shape the law, rather than vice versa." He follows up by suggesting a court should "bend every effort to read the law" in order to avoid what he views an "outrageous result." And, in light of such Scalia advocacy, perhaps a judge who believes a "proper outcome" is reversing a problematic state death sentence feels justified seeking to "bend every effort to read" AEDPA to avoid the "outrageous result" of upholding that death sentence.

Posted by: Doug B. | Jul 2, 2017 2:37:51 PM

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SHANGHAI - Senior finance officials from China and Brazil Sunday agreed to step up cooperation in fiscal and financial areas to advance bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.

Finance officials from both countries met in Shanghai on Sunday ahead of the second BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors meeting.

Sunday's meeting was co-chaired by Shi Yaobin, vice-finance minister of China, and his Brazilian counterpart Marcello Estevao.

The two sides exchanged views and reached agreement on a range of issues including macro-economic policy, structural reform policy, cooperation under G20 and BRICS frameworks, taxation policy, and financial and investment cooperation.

Shi Yaobin said China was willing to enhance macro-economic policy coordination, work together with Brazil to improve global governance and seek more potential on two-way investment.

He added that China and Brazil were major emerging economies and important members of the G20 and BRICS, and that the two sides should explore potential in fiscal and financial cooperation to make good preparation for the BRICS summit in September.

Marcello said China and Brazil had a lot of potential for more cooperation, adding that as emerging markets and BRICS countries, the two nations had made contributions to global economy.

Brazil expected a great success of the BRICS summit in September, he said.
On April 16, longtime Milwaukee resident, bartender and musician Matthew Matty" Thomas Gonzales was passing through Abu Dhabi to board a Royal Caribbean ship. The nature of his trip was business; he works for a communications subcontractor and was planning on providing cabling and wiring aboard the ship. This trip was stopped short, as he was detained in the Abu Dhabi airport for having a prescription medication called Tramadol. He did not have his prescription with him, nor had he registered the medicine prior to entering, which is the requirement in UAE.

He is currently at Al Wathba prison in the desert of Abu Dhabi. Upon providing proper documentation and seeing a local doctor to confirm his condition of dislocated shoulders and back pain, he was declared innocent on all of the charges regarding possession of Tramadol. However, the judge still sentenced him to two years in prison for not following procedures regarding transport of prescription medication into Abu Dhabi.

The Nomad World Pub will be holding a fundraiser on June 25 from noon-midnight for Gonzales and his family who have acquired extensive legal fees in this ordeal.

There will be live music with a jam session hosted by Jeff Hamilton (Violent Femmes, Beatallica, The Probers). Special guests include members of The Cocksmiths, Kiss Me Im Sick, GoTown, The Carpet Baggers, 4th St Elevators, Milwaukee Hot Club ///Liv Mueller, Matt MF Tyner and many more throughout the day.

Friends of the Shepherd Help support Milwaukee's locally owned free weekly newspaper. LEARN MORE

The Nomad will donate all proceeds of the Prix Fix to the cause. There will be items for sale as well as silent auction items. There will also be limited edition t-shirts and posters that all of the proceeds will go towards Gonzaless legal fees.

Donations can be made via PayPal using this email address: freematty@outlook.com. Please contact your local representative and make them aware of this and use #freematty in your tweets to your elected officials.
Nearly 37 years ago, Oscar-winning director John Avildsen brought a rough cut of his film "The Formula" to Sioux City to test market.

Studio heads were nervous about its viability and wanted to see if it resonated with what they called the "Bronco Billy" crowd.

Armed with a crew of studio heads, special equipment and those pieces of film, the "Rocky" director unreeled the Marlon Brandon/George C. Scott film for an audience for the first time.

Personally, I wouldnt need to have a preview, Avildsen said. But the MGM people seem to think its necessary. Theyre worried that the project isnt commercial.

In order to ensure the preview crowd would not be biased, the films name and its California entourage were not publicized. Director Avildsen slipped quietly into town.

Im here to get a reaction from the crowd, he said that night at the Riviera I theater. I guess you might say Im on business.

While the spy caper about a formula for fuel made from coal played, Avildsen took notes.

Studio heads did their homework as well. In addition to distributing comment cards, they used an electronic device to measure audience laughter and interest.

What observations ultimately emerged from the preview, Avildsen said, would be used to determine the films final cut.

Based on his own notes, the director said he intended to change a bedroom scene which drew too much laughter. Otherwise, he was pleased with the reaction.

We figured if people liked it in Sioux City, theyd love it on the coasts, Avildsen said.

Unlike other sneak previews seen in the area, the 1980 preview featured a working cut of a film. Final editing had not been completed, correct music needed to be added.

According to Justin Jacobsmeier, manager of the local Dubinsky Brothers Theaters, special equipment was required to project the film. Unlike finished products, The Formulas sound and pictures were on separate reels. Studio officials synchronized parts of the movie as it was shown.

The (MGM people) were so organized. I couldnt believe they were in the motion picture business, he said with a laugh.

In the latter part of July, Jacobsmeier was told MGM had selected Sioux City as one of its test cities (Madison, Wisconsin, was the other). Three days before the showing, advertising and publicity officials came to town to plot their strategy. Ads (which read, Tonight at 7:30 p.m. major studio preview of one of the years most important movies!) were placed, tickets were distributed and equipment was installed.

If they said something was going to be here at 9 a.m., you could look for it at 8:56, Jacobsmeier said. They were just that organized.

While "The Formula" was a big Christmas release that year, it didn't get great reviews or make big money. Insiders say the version released was not the one Avildsen wanted audiences to see. The finished product was cut by a producer and, apparently, angered the director.

Sioux City audiences, then, may have been among the very few to see what Avildsen had intended.

John Avildsen died June 16 in Los Angeles. He was 81.
SIOUX CITY -- The Sioux City Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center/Betty Strong Encounter Center will host a Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Geotourism Project launch from 1 to 4 p.m. June 27.

Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

Siouxland residents, cultural leaders, educators and representatives of government, business and industry are encouraged to participate in the public event.

The Geotourism Project is an effort by the U.S. National Park Service to inspire travelers to experience local geographical and environmental features as well as local culture, heritage and attractions along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. A website will be created to promote Geotourism Project communities.

For more information about the June 27 event, contact: Rory Robinson, National Park Service, rory_robinson@nps.gov or 440-717-3776; or Jim Dion, Solimar International, j.dion@solimarinternational.com or 202-604-2847.
SAC CITY, Iowa | A 48-year-old Sac City man was airlifted to a Sioux City hospital Sunday after he fell from a bridge into the Raccoon River.

The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. Sunday in the 2700 block of Sierra Avenue, south of Sac City.

Brad Blum, of Sac City, was reportedly sitting on the railing of the bridge and fell backward into the river, according to a news release from the Sac County Sheriff's Office.

Sac City Fire Rescue and Sac City EMS responded to the scene after receiving the 911 call. Blum was located and transported to Loring Hospital in Sac City, and was later airlifted to Sioux City.

A GoFundMe has been started for Blum and his family.
ODEBOLT, Iowa | Three boys under the age of 12 caused nearly $80,000 in damages to playground equipment at Odebolt-Arthur and Battle Creek-Ida Grove School Friday after playing with lighters underneath a plastic slide, according to local authorities.

The boys, ages 11, 9 and 7, were lighting wood chips on fire when the flames grew out of control and set the equipment on fire, according to a news release from the Sac County Sheriff's Office.

The Odebolt Fire Department arrived at the school, 600 Maple St., shortly before 5 p.m. Friday. By the time firefighters had extinguished the flames, between $70,000 and $80,000 in damage had occurred, the release said.

The Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office is assisting local authorities with an ongoing investigation. Criminal charges are pending, the release said.
SIOUX CITY -- The owners of a local fireworks stand are probably hoping for a bust instead of a boom in the near future.

The Iowa Fireworks Co. stand at 4400 Gordon Drive, which opened last week, was burgled over the weekend, according to the Sioux City Police Department.

The crime took place either late Saturday or early Sunday morning when an unknown person or persons entered the stand and stole about $500 worth of fireworks from the tent and caused at least $500 worth of damages to it.

Sgt. Jeremy McClure said the investigation is still ongoing and encouraged anyone with more information to contact Siouxland Crimestoppers at 712-258-TIPS (8477).

Note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly referred to the incident as a robbery instead of a burglary.
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SIOUX CITY | A Sioux City man faces numerous charges stemming from an alleged shooting incident Sunday night in Leeds.

Around 11:15 p.m., police responded to an incident, variously described at the 4200 block of Madison Street and the 4200 block of Tyler Street, in which a person in a car discharged a firearm at pedestrians and drove over a curb and through a fence.

According to a criminal complaint filed Monday, Sioux City Police Department officers found the man, Zachariah Petersen, 29, parked in his 2011 Ford F-150, blocking traffic in the middle of the road. His vehicle was on and in drive, with the emergency break set.

Before officers arrived, Petersen drove through a fence, attempted to run over three 16-year-olds with his vehicle, and failing to do so, shot at them, the complaint said.

After refusing to submit to a sobriety test, Petersen was arrested and taken to the Woodbury County Jail. He is charged with intimidation with a dangerous weapon, discharging a weapon within city limits, driving under the influence, carrying a loaded weapon in a vehicle and illegally blocking a street.

He was held in the Woodbury County Jail on $15,000 bond, and was released from custody Monday morning.
SIOUX CITY | A child playing with a cigarette lighter sparked a fire Monday morning that severely damaged a Sioux City home and killed a dog and two cats, authorities said.

Ten people, including six children 12 and under, escaped unharmed. One firefighter was treated for a knee injury.

Five fire engines and 20 firefighters arrived at 2221 Boies St. in the Riverside area around 8:50 a.m. Firefighters ripped apart significant portions of the structure as they fought the blaze, which left the front windows broken and much of the exterior blackened. The city red-tagged the structure less than two hours after the fire was reported.

Sioux City Fire Marshal Mark Aesoph said not all the occupants of the house at the time of the fire lived there.

"The house is actually a rental property that was being rented by a couple that was inside the home, and they just had several friends over visiting today," Aesoph said.

Smoke detectors in the house may have saved the lives of the occupants, Aesoph said.

"The home, luckily, did have working smoke alarms," he said.
The Muscle Massive filly Treviso is the only sophomore trotting miss to have a win in each of the three preliminaries of the Pennsylvania Sire Stakes after a 1:54.2 victory on Sunday (June 18) at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono, while the other division was taken by Overdraft Volo in 1:54.3.

Despite winning her two previous Sire Stakes prelims, and a Currier & Ives division in between, Treviso was the 9-5 second choice behind 3-5 favourite Thats All Moni, a winner in the second leg. But trainer/driver Charlie Norris yielded the early lead and followed the chalk to the stretch, then sailed right on by to win by three and three-quarter lengths, raising Trevisos lifetime earnings to $240,896 for the Klis Brothers Stable and Carrie Norris.

The Yankee Glide filly Overdraft Volo is now two-for-two in the Sire Stakes and for 2017 after overcoming a first-over journey and lowering her mark to 1:54.3 in the other section. Last years PA divisional champion Fine Tuned Lady made a threatening rally but came up a half-length shy behind the winner of $202,340, who is owned by the Pinske Stables and Kentuckiana Racing Stables and is backed by Team Orange Crush  driver Andy Miller and trainer/wife Julie.

In a $25,000 Winners Over Handicap Trot, Homicide Hunter, returning to the track where he trotted the second-fastest mile over a five-eighths-mile oval (1:50.1) last year, caught favoured Tuonoblu Rex to post a 1:52 victory. Tuonoblu Rex tried to steal with the race with a :26.4 third quarter that got him to the third pole in 1:22.2, but Homicide Hunter, stalking him from the pocket, had enough to go by late for driver George Napolitano Jr., trainer Chris Oakes, and Crawford Farms Racing.

(PHHA/Pocono)
The late trainer Mark Austin was honoured on Sunday (June 18) at Dresden Raceway and enshrined into Dresden Raceways Hall of Fame.

Austin started his career in Dresden in the 1980s and that is where he broke one of the best trotters of all time in Canada, A Worthy Lad,for Joe Johnston. Austin then moved to Windsor where he worked with Jack Darling and had a hand with champions such as Gothic Dream and Northern Luck.

He then moved his stable to Fergus where he was the conditioner for many top horses in Canada such as Go Get Her, Park Shark, XLB Patrick, Sparky Mark and Fool Me Once.

Austin was more than just a trainer as friendships he kindled at Dresden lasted with him his entire life.

Austinss widow Julie was in attendance on Sunday at Dresden to receive the plaque and say a few words about the honour of being bestowed into Dresden Raceways Hall of Fame. Austins parents, family and daughters Paige and Paula were also on hand for the awards ceremony.

On the track, Garrett Rooney was the big gun on the day as he scored four winners. Rooney visited the winners circle with Burning Memoria, Campassion, Beer And A Haircut, and Singhampton Kenny. Rooney now has 10 wins on the year and is the leading dash winner.

GD Cruise For Gold stayed hot at Dresden winning his fourth in a row for owner, trainer and driver Donnie Rankin. The three-year-old Althatgltrsisgold gelding went wire-to-wire in 2:01.1.

About 700 people bet a total handle of $23,591 that included the first week of having off track wagering which accounted for almost $2,000 into the live pool.

To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Dresden Raceway.

(With files from Dresden Raceway)
During its 18-year history, Plainridge Park had been considered mostly a B track, hosting horses that may have been overmatched at other venues. However, as a direct result of the Race Horse Development Fund, expanded gaming in Massachusetts and the persistent hard work of all the horsemen and horsewomen in the state, Plainridge Park has now positioned itself as one of the more competitive tracks in the northeast.

Over the last three years the track has been going through a very swift renaissance. Since opening in 1999, the track filled the void left in Massachusetts harness racing when Foxboro Park closed in 1997 after 50 years in operation.

Evidence of this rebirth since 2014 is 45 more racing dates, purses which in some cases have doubled, a $10 million increase in live handle and another $3 million increase from simulcast. These numbers clearly indicate that Plainridge Park is a vital racing jurisdiction.

The main goal of management moving forward was to make sure the local horsemen who supported the track in the lean years had the opportunity to benefit now. But they also wanted to put Massachusetts harness racing back on the map nationally and the best way to do that was with a Grand Circuit event.

Track management looked at the racing calendar for a spot they could host a signature race during the summer where it wouldnt clash with another stake and allow them to draw the best horses to Plainridge for it. They identified an opening for aged trotters in late July leading up to Cashman Memorial and the Spirit of Massachusetts Trot was born.

The inaugural edition of the $250,000 Spirit of Massachusetts Trot will be presented on Friday (July 28).

The purse is by far the largest ever offered for a Standardbred race in the state, more than tripling the $81,000 Colonial Trot held at Foxboro Park in 1995 and the $75,000 Beckwith Memorial held at Plainridge in 2009. And it will bring the best horses and drivers in the sport to Massachusetts for an event unparalleled in New England harness racing history.

Steve OToole is the general manager and director of live racing at Plainridge Park. He has been associated with the track for many years and is pleased they are able to host such a prestigious race.

The success of Plainridge Park Casino, Massachusetts first expanded gaming facility, is the catalyst for this event, said OToole. Racing is an important part of the operation at Plainridge Park and it is an important industry in Massachusetts and New England. The Spirit of Massachusetts Trot seemed to fit well with the effort to keep harness racing viable in the Commonwealth.

The day-in, day-out racing program at Plainridge Park has been solidified over the past couple of years and we wanted to take the next step and create an event to let the industry know harness racing in Massachusetts is back on the map. Also by offering this race, we hope to boost the local fan base as well as strengthen the relationship with our simulcast customers.

Horsemen have taken notice of the race as the connections of 38 eligibles have made the final sustaining payment in May and those eligibles include the very best Open trotters in the U.S. and Canada, including five millionaires among the plethora of stake winners.

Pretty much every track that is successful today has some type of signature race; its a chance to sell our sport to the fans, said Paul Verrette, Race Secretary at Plainridge Park. The Spirit of Massachusetts will do just that. We will be hosting the best aged trotters in North America the week prior to Hambletonian Day, so you would have to think there will be a lot of eyes on Plainridge Park that Friday afternoon.

Hosting a race like this is an honour and quite an accomplishment when you think about where this track was less than four years ago. The fact that this event is taking place is a testament to so much hard work by so many people in Massachusetts both inside and outside of the harness racing industry.

And those people are on both sides of the fence. The horsemen partnered with track management to work on the growth at the facility and as a result, everyone is now reaping the fruits of their labor in a successful and professional atmosphere.

As we get closer to the big race, our members are excited to showcase an industry which has experienced significant growth and renewal over the past few years, said Bob McHugh, president of the Harness Horse Association of New England. The buzz is palpable; our owners and trainers are excited to participate on a card hosting such a significant event as the Spirit of Massachusetts Trot.

There has been a realization that this race will let the public know that harness racing is back in Massachusetts. And since there is talk about the state taking some money from the Race Horse Development Fund for other purposes, this race sends a message to the legislature that our industry is alive and well.

Besides the signature event, plans for the rest of the July 28 card are to showcase the best local horsemen and horses that have been supporting and racing at the track for years.

The most important thing to me is that the other races that day are exclusively for regular Plainridge participants, said Verrette. We will have a handful of special races as we try to involve organizations such as the New England Amateur Drivers Club, the Massachusetts Breeders and the USTA, but it will be built around the Plainridge regulars.

Harness racing in Massachusetts has been making history for well over 100 years. In 1903, the Readville Trotting Park was the site of the first 2:00 trotting mile when the little red mare, Lou Dillon, became the queen of the turf. And Readville was also the first track to offer a $50,000 purse for a special American Handicap trot in 1908, the largest money ever offered in North American harness racing at that time.

Now, just 25 miles down I-95 from that historic site, Massachusetts harness racing looks to make history once again at Plainridge Park.

A complete list of all 38 eligibles to the Spirit of Massachusetts Trot can be found by clicking here.

A landing page for the Spirit of Massachusetts Trot has been created and will be updated with news and information as race day approaches. You can visit that by clicking here.

(Plainridge Park)
Standardbred trainer Richard G. Biff' Befarah, 70, passed away on Saturday, June 10 due to smoke inhalation from a house fire.

Befarah was born in Pennsylvania, but moved to Neptune, NJ as a child and was a graduate of Neptune High School. At the time of his death he was a residence of Wrightstown.

A passionate horse-lover, Befarah conditioned equines from 1997 to 2015 and his charges earned $257,106, with the best year of his career in 2012 when he collected $106,264 from 103 starts.

A service will be held on Friday (June 23) at 2:30 p.m., at The Br. Gen. Wm. C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, N.J. 08562.

For more information about Befarah or to leave condolences, please click here.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Richard Biff Befarah

(USTA)
Judicial Watch Applauds U.S. Supreme Court Decision to Hear Case against Arbitrary Redistricting Methods Proposed for Wisconsin

Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5172

WASHINGTON, June 19, 2017 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch today praised the decision by the United States Supreme Court to stay a lower court's ruling and to hear a case concerning gerrymandering in Wisconsin. Judicial Watch and the Allied Educational Foundation (AEF) filed an amici curiae brief in an effort to convince the high court to reject the arbitrary method of drawing Wisconsin's electoral districts adopted in Beverly R. Gill, et al. v. William Whitford, et al. (No. 16-1161). The lower court struck down Wisconsin's 2011 redistricting plan on the grounds that it was an unconstitutional gerrymander. Judicial Watch asked the Court to take up the case and overturn that ruling.

"Leftists want the courts to overturn district lines if not enough Democrats win," said Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. "We're happy that the Supreme Court will now have a chance to rule that Democrats -- or any political party -- will not have a constitutional right to win elections."

Judicial Watch and AEF argued in their joint brief against the ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, which relied in part on the use of a test for gerrymandering known as the "the efficiency gap," which focuses on a purely hypothetical estimate of what each party "should" win in a "fair" election.

Judicial Watch and AEF point out that the test amounts to court-ordered proportional representation and that this will not prevent gerrymandering:

[P]roportional representation has nothing to do with preventing gerrymandering. Deviations from proportional representation, however defined, may occur for any number of reasons other than gerrymandering, including the political views or missteps or personal qualities of the candidates of one of the parties. The absence of proportional representation does not uniquely identify gerrymanders. In any event, proportional representation is not required by the Constitution.

Judicial Watch plans to file another amicus curiae brief as the case moves forward in the Supreme Court.

The Allied Educational Foundation is a charitable and educational foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life through education. In furtherance of that goal, the Foundation has engaged in a number of projects, which include, but are not limited to, educational and health conferences domestically and abroad. AEF has partnered frequently with Judicial Watch to fight government and judicial corruption and to promote a return to ethics and morality in the nation's public life.

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A blog published by Susan Eisen that has columns on all the latest jewelry fashions, news, and store information.
By Daisy Handfield

THREE groups of students from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College participated in the second annual hurricane season culinary cook-off.





The event was held on Tuesday (June 13) at the Providenciales branch of the college and was hosted by the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME), in collaboration with the school.





The theme for the initiative was, Do you know how to cook a nutritionally balanced meal with limited food sources?





Group One and winners of the competition told media that they had prepared for the competition before it began so they already had in mind how they were going to execute their ideal meal.





Director of the DDME, Dr Virginia Clerveaux, explained that her goal was to ensure that the students were properly equipped in case a natural disaster occurs.





She said: "We have been doing various public education campaigns, so we wanted to begin focusing on the health.





"As the famous saying goes, the health of a nation is very important and we wanted to ensure that we have a healthy population that can assist, and not just with the response effort, but also in the recovery effort.





Judges for the event were Chief of Medical Services at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre, Dr Denise Braithwaite Tenant, nutritionist Tamika Handfield and local chef Nikita Chef Nik Skippings.





Dr Braithwaite Tenant said that she views the initiative as very important.





"This is a very good initiative. This initiative is very useful, especially for myself, being a mother who is often wondering what to cook if power goes off.





"I think that this is a very good opportunity to showcase to the public some of those delicious yet nutritious meals that you can cook with non-perishable items. So, I really do like it.





Chef Nik, head judge and culinary ambassador for the TCI, noted that in the future he wants to see more food being cooked on charcoal grills because there is always a chance of not having electricity during hurricane season.





He said: "I would have liked to see some cold stoves [charcoal grills] involved because remember that during a hurricane season there might not be any electricity and most of the amenities that we are used to in terms of preparing food is not available to us.





"I think next year we are going to have the charcoal grills. We are going to allow it to be more challenging for our participants in this event.




By Olivia Rose

IN AN effort to curb the rampant influx of illegal migrants and illicit trafficking to the TCI, the Government will be pumping additional resources into the Ministry of Border Control and the police force.





Speaking on the radio talk show Expressions on June 5 in Grand Turk, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson expressed her Governments frustration with the age old human trafficking issue affecting the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The Premiers remarks came on the heels of the police forces latest interception of an illegal sloop from Haiti carrying 65 illegal migrants.





Cartwright Robinson speaking on the matter and how her administration intends to grapple with the issue, revealed that her Government is making every effort to combat the problem with a holistic and stern approach.





She said: "I met with Baroness Analey and I did make representation in February to the UK asking for assistance not just in policing our borders but also in providing assistance to the police.





"We had the benefit of the security assessment team here that was appointed.





"They came into the Turks and Caicos, they met with Government, they met with members of the private sector and a case was made on our behalf that was contained in a report at the end of March.





"We do expect to get benefit; we understand that this is difficult for the people of the Turks and Caicos as it is difficult for us as a Government.





"The sad thing about it is that they are people in the Turks and Caicos who are Islanders who are actually benefitting from this trade and its not just about human trafficking.





Harkening back to revelations made by former Premier Rufus Ewing, who disclosed in 2015 that guns and illegal drugs are also coming in on sloops to the TCI, she said: "At the end of the day, no matter what, we need the additional assistance, we need the help.





"We are able to bring in more boats that will be here in short order for the policing of our borders, were able to increase the manpower, we are going to move ahead on our border patrol unit.





"There is greater coordination between the different bodies and I do know that the Ministry of Border Control and Labour is going to have a full sit down with the Marine Branch and see what else can be done with the resources that we have.





"But yes I am still hopefully looking forward for the assistance from the UK in terms of policing our borders.





"Now let me say, no matter how much the Bahamas has pumped into boats and their defence force and even the United States there will always be landings.





"But this level that were seeing is unsustainable and its something that were not going to sit down on.





Stiffer penalties

The Premier has since warned that stiffer penalties will be imposed on anyone caught supporting human trafficking and illegal trade.





She said that anyone caught harbouring illegal migrants could face a hefty fine of $20,000.





Cartwright Robinson added that the summary conviction or term of imprisonment for the offence is four years, while those acquiring status other than by birth convicted of the offence could face their status in the Islands being revoked.





She noted that it is a vexing experience as each time the countrys purse is taxed, and monies that can be used elsewhere for developmental needs are directed towards detention and repatriation.





Turning her attention to her partys touted 12 point plan which focuses on the safety and security of Islanders, residents and visitors, the Premier noted that the plan is being executed in phases.





She said: "Well the 12 point plan includes a lot for the police force as well as for the Government so there are different initiatives that the police force has to roll out.





"I cant tell anyone that the Governor or Commissioner is not open to those plans because it looks at reviewing the force, it looks at providing retention plans and succession plans, it looks at generally the whole prison system but where the Government comes in is providing those resources and I dont think a lot of people appreciate how much resources weve already provided for the police.





"Our role is legislative and our role is providing resources and our role is coming up with policies and the three things mainly that people wouldve heard me speaking too which we are able to do as a Government is to provide the legislative framework that the police will need.





"So right away persons will see in the legislative agenda the legislation that will allow the police to use more modern crime fighting initiatives, biometrics, to use DNA and fingerprinting and other modern crime fighting initiatives.





"We are bringing that legislative support to the police and that is very high on the legislative agenda.





"As well as intercessional communication, data protection, public order - all these sorts of things will help the police in terms of giving them additional crime fighting initiatives and we purchased a building as well to house CCTV.





"In this years budget we increased manpower next year well be looking at supporting them in a marine base that is near the radar station as well as looking to replace their planes so theyll be able to do more air patrols.




MINISTER of Tourism Ralph Higgs was given an award at a regional ceremony recognising the top contributors to the industry.





He led a delegation to New York for the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO)s Caribbean Week 2017 from June 4 to 10.





The annual week long occasion consisted of a series of meetings and events, both public and private.





Organised by the CTO, Caribbean Week in New York brings together the most influential policy makers, marketing professionals and tourism industry officials to interact and discuss both tourism and investment opportunities in the region.





Minister Higgs was honoured with the Allied Award in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the sustainable development of the region.





The award was presented during the Caribbean Tourism Awards luncheon among a number of his counterparts, directors of tourism, industry executives including well-regarded journalists.





Commenting on the award Minister Higgs stated: "I am honoured and grateful to the CTO and its members for this prestigious award.





"My love for the tourism industry, not just in the Turks and Caicos but throughout the region, goes without saying.





"I am happy to continue my contribution as minister to this industry that will continue to be the main revenue earner for many of our small nations.





Also, a staple and highlight on the calendar of events, was the highly anticipated Caribbean Students Colloquium and Rum and Rhythm Benefit.





Students from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College captivated the audience with their sustainable tourism project on climate change.





The Rum and Rhythm Benefit saw three young chefs from the Turks and Caicos Islands entice the audiences with delicious cuisine and flare that can only be experienced in the TCI.





The delegation which consisted of Permanent Secretary Cherylann Jones, Director of Tourism Ramon Andrews, Chairman of the Tourist Board Norman Hamilton and Head of Secretariat Mellisa Ariza were able to secure several one on one meetings with top travel magazine Travel + Leisure and Air BnB throughout the week.





In addition, the team were also able to conclude a site visit of the Tourist Board US office.





The CTO is the Caribbeans tourism development agency whose members include more than 30 Dutch, English, French and Spanish-owned countries and territories, in addition to various private sector allied members.





Their objective is to provide the necessary services and information for the development of sustainable tourism for the economic and social benefit of the Caribbean people.





They are headquartered in Barbados and have offices in New York and London.




By Delana Isles

THE TURKS AND CAICOS Islands is once again in the process of being assessed and rated by international ratings agency Standard and Poors (S&P).





While the first two ratings were conducted under the former administration  the Progressive National Party (PNP), which is credited with putting the TCI back on a firm and solid economic and financial footing, this is the first one under the new government.





This publication reached out to former minister of finance and now Leader of the Opposition, Washington Misick to find out if the change in government could in some way affect the rating - either negatively or positively.





Misick was optimistic that the country is in such a solid financial position, that the rating will not be impacted negatively at all.





He said: "We may have to just wait and see what the report is, but I dont think much has changed in terms of the economic situation one way or another. So, I would expect it to be maintained.





For two years running  2014 and 2015  the global ratings agency has maintained its BBB+ rating for the TCI, with a continued stable outlook for the Islands.





During each rating S&P had made it clear that TCIs close relationship with the United Kingdom, as an overseas territory, was a key factor in its rating calculation.





And that one of the benefits of maintaining a BBB+ rating is in strengthening the TCIs negotiating position as it held discussions with financial institutions ahead of refinancing its UK-guaranteed $170 million bond.





That loan matured in February 2016 and has since been paid down.





However, since the new government assumed office in December 2016, there have been commitments by the current administration of increased spending in critical areas.





These areas were deemed to have been abandoned by the former PNP government as it concentrated on paying off the loan.





How this could possibly affect the rating system remains to be seen.





Following both previous ratings, the agency had also noted that the BBB+ rating is a strong factor in attracting foreign direct investment to the TCI and building confidence amongst its existing business community.





In line with this view, since the PDM assumed government, there has been renewed interest in investing in the Islands, with two new hotels already turning sod for the establishment of high-end, luxury hotels and villas.





Additionally, information has reached this publication of a reinvigoration of interest by investors in a hotel that stalled under the PNP government.





While these interests are all from hoteliers who are planning to stay within the seven storey height allowed in the country for all buildings, the PDM Government appears to be very hesitant about the proposed 12 storey development that was a hallmark of the PNP.





One which they failed in getting off the ground during their four years in office, due to a prolonged court battle with local hoteliers.





The S&P review is expected to be out some time soon.





During their visit to the Islands, the S&P team met with a range of politicians, officials and business leaders as part of the annual review process.




If youve ever been curious about NASA or the universe, Wednesday night might be the perfect time to get some answers.

The local Friends of Galileo Astronomy Club is featuring guest speaker Les Hasting, a NASA ambassador, for its upcoming monthly meeting Wednesday night. This free event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m in the basement of the Longview Public Library.

FOG President Chuck Ring said Hasting, a native of Skamania County, will cover a multitude of topics.

(Hasting) gives a pretty good lecture about what you can see right now and whats going to happen in the near future, Ring said. He may talk about the solar eclipse. Its just good information.

On Aug. 21, all of North America will be treated to an eclipse of the sun, which NASA describes as one of natures most awe-inspiring sights. The path of totality, in which the moon will completely cover the sun, will stretch from Lincoln Beach, Ore., to Charleston, S.C. Observers outside this path will still see a partial solar eclipse where the moon covers part of the suns disk.

In Southwest Washington, about 90 percent of the sun will be eclipsed.
tech2 News Staff

According to a report by the Software Freedom Law Centre, India has seen 20 internet shutdowns in 2017. It said that since 2012, the Indian government has shut down the internet 79 times.

Very recently, on 5 June and 6 June, the government had shut down the internet in the states of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, respectively, during the farmer agitation. Meanwhile, on 7 June, the People's Development Party (PDP) had called for a shutdown of the internet in Jammu and Kashmir when a civilian was killed by security forces. The following day, the shutdown was called in Uttar Pradesh, where a Dalit leader had been arrested following a clash between the upper and the lower caste.

In all these cases, the shutdown was used as a preventative measure so that India's internal administrative machinery does not get jeopardised, since most of the content encouraging violence was circulated through social media apps like WhatsApp or Facebook. From merely three instances of shutdown in 2012 to a massive leap of 20 cases in 2017, the Jammu and Kashmir's shutdown, in early May, was condemned by the United Nations (UN). The UN special rapporteur, David Kaye, said, The internet and telecommunications bans have the character of collective punishment [and] fail to meet the standards required under international human rights law to limit freedom of expression. The government authorities had banned all social media websites, like Whatsapp, Facebook, and Twitter.

According to the data provided by the Software Freedom Law Centre, most of these shutdowns happen on the internet used through mobile services. Reacting to this data, the Human Rights Watch, South Asia director, Meenakshi Ganguly said, Indian authorities concerns over the misuse of the internet and social media should not be the default option to prevent social unrest." She further said, The lack of transparency and failure to explain these shutdowns only further the perception that they are meant to suppress nonviolent reporting and criticism of the government.
tech2 News Staff

Lockheed Martin, the world's largest defense contractor has signed an agreement with Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) to produce the F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft in India. The F-16 is ideal to meet the requirement of the Indian Air Force for single engine fighters. The partnership between a US and Indian company will support the advancement of defense manufacturing capabilities in India.

N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons, said "This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies." Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics said "Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 programme. Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 Make in India offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the worlds most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India."

Over 4,500 F-16 fighters have been produced, and there are over 3,200 operational aircraft in 26 countries. The F-16 Block 70 is the most advanced variant of the F-16 produced so far. The partnership will create new jobs in both the US and India. India stands to benefit by playing a more important role in the global fighter aircraft supply ecosystem.
IANS

Posting horrifying pictures of a Grenfell Tower victim on Facebook has landed a man in jail in Britain. Omega Mwaikambo, 43, was sentenced to three months at Westminster Magistrates' Court after he admitted to posting the pictures, The Independent reported.

According to the Scotland Yard, Mwaikambo was found guilty of malicious communications offences. Mwaikambo was arrested after images were posted online of what appeared to be a partially covered body following the blaze in North Kensington, west London. He pleaded guilty to two counts under the Communications Act.

He received six weeks in prison for each count, to run consecutively, making a total of 12 weeks (three months), the Scotland Yard said. While the body of the man in the photographs is yet to be identified formally, one man told BBC News he believed the photo showed his brother, Mohammed, who was confirmed dead.

"This morning we saw a picture of his body on social media and the police didn't know anything about this. This picture shouldn't have been released on social media. The police are saying they couldn't tell us anything until they have more information," he was quoted as saying. At least 58 people are missing and presumed dead in the Grenfell Tower disaster.
tech2 News Staff

Samsung Electronics is said to be struggling to embed a fingerprint sensor into its displays. According to Android Headline, the new on screen fingerprint technology may be causing brightness issues.

The screen around the fingerprint is becoming brighter as compared to the rest of the screen, making the region stand out as a circular dot. The problem is apparently the reason the company is not commercialising the new on screen fingerprint sensor technology. It could also be the reason why such a sensor will be missing from its upcoming Galaxy Note 8.

The website mentioned that no concrete information has been obtained on how frequent the flaw is. Rumours about the company having issues with its new screen technology spread after the South Korean Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) decided to not include an onscreen fingerprint sensor on the Galaxy Note 8. The company has not mention the cause for not including onscreen technology in its new phone.

Samsung has managed to create successful prototypes of a screen with fingerprint sensors embedded on it. The prototypes haven't faced any problems of regional brightness. The website also mentioned that the devices, Samsungs Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are being praised for their design and capabilities. However, both the phones have an odd positioning for the fingerprint sensor, which has been pointed out by users and reviewers.
If youre looking for a flagship smartphone, your requirements are very simple and very clear. You just want the best smartphone there is. There will be some leeway in this requirement of course; you might prefer Android to iOS, for example, but the fact that you want the best device is unquestionable.

What you want is a phone with no compromise, a phone with exceptional build quality, a great camera, a great display and, admit it, something extra to brag about.

The Samsung Galaxy S8 and the Apple iPhone 7 are unquestionably flagship smartphones. Theyre the very best smartphones available in the world today. With the G6, LG is attempting to muscle its way into this select group. Unfortunately, I dont think its quite managed to do that yet. Heres why.

Build and design: 7/10

In terms of materials used, the G6 is very sturdy. The front and back are covered in glass and sandwiched between the two sheets is a metal frame. Many manufacturers do this, and its nothing new, but it's the finish that matters in the end.

On an iPhone or an S8, the screen seamlessly merges into the frame. On the G6, the flat display sits within the frame and you can actually feel the sharp edges of the metal frame. This is not very nice.

Hold an S8 in your hand and you feel like youre holding an elegant, meticulously crafted gadget. The LG G6 just feels like its all edges.

The lack of refinement extends to the display and buttons as well. The corners of the display, for example, look like theyve been cut with a pair of scissors rather than some sort of precision CNC machine. The curves of the actual display panel don't line up with the frame.

It's a small thing to complain about, but such things add up.

The buttons are a bit mushy as well. Again, the buttons on a flagship like the S8 or iPhone 7 feel tactile and clicky. I was expecting the same from the G6.

The design itself is nothing remarkable. Pull this phone out of your pocket and nobody will look at it twice. The unusual aspect ratio of 18:9 makes the phone longer than a phone with a similar screen size, which is one nice thing with this device.

The power button doubles as the fingerprint sensor and its placed on the back of the device. The back of the device is glass, but the mild matte finish of the sensors surface means that its not hard to miss.

The star feature of this phone is its dual camera on the rear. This unit sits flush with the back. But its not seamlessly integrated into the back. Theres a discrete glass panel covering the camera unit and I assume it was chosen to offer more protection and to not interfere with the cameras optics.

The plastic inserts for the antenna bands can be found around the frame of the device. A minor irritant for me, personally, is the fact that the bands arent balanced. Maybe I have OCD, but I find it quite irritating that theres a single, off-centre plastic strip at the bottom while everywhere else its balanced out with two strips. But thats just me.

To be perfectly honest, I dont think the G6 is in the same league as the iPhone or the Galaxy S8. The quality of the materials used in the G6 is undoubtedly good, but the finish leaves something to be desired.

Compared to a device like the OnePlus 3/3T, I think I can make the argument that the G6 feels better built, but its definitely not better designed.

The G5 was a design disaster, the G6 is an understandable back-to-basics type design. But, if anything, its a bit too basic and unimaginative, for my taste anyway. Your mileage may vary.

Features: 8/10

Despite running on slightly older hardware, the LG G6 is a powerful device. Its powered by the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 platform that youll find in the OnePlus 3T and the Google Pixel. This is backed by 4 GB of RAM, 32 GB or 64 GB of internal storage and a 3,300 mAh battery.

As expected with flagships this past year, the phone is rated as IP68 for dust and water resistance.

The usual assortment of connectivity options, including Bluetooth 4.2, 802.11 b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi and more, are available.

Bonus features include support for Qualcomms aptX technology for high-fidelity wireless audio playback and support for USB 3.1 over a Type-C connector. Fast charging support is also included.

The standout features include a dual-camera setup on the rear, a pseudo dual-camera setup on the front and a Dolby Vision and HDR-10 certified display in an unusual, 18:9 aspect ratio.

These features sound very nice when you rattle them off like this, but as youll find out in more detail further on, theyre not compelling.

The network speed supported is LTE Cat 12, which is rated at a downlink speed of 600 Mbps. This is lower than the 1 Gbps CAT16 rated Galaxy S8, but the speed difference is irrelevant in India at the moment.

Display: 7/10

With an 18:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 2880x1440, the display size and resolution is almost identical to that of the Galaxy S8. The S8 boasts of a slightly taller aspect ratio of 18.5:9.

Thats where the similarity to the S8s display ends, however. The G6 packs in an IPS LCD screen as opposed to the Super AMOLED screen on the S8. Given that the G6 uses a standard RGB layout for its pixels, the G6 display is sharper on paper. Given that the S8 has a PPI of over 500, this doesnt matter.

The S8s AMOLED display should have an edge in contrast ratio, blacks on OLED are truly black, after all, but the G6s display is exceptional and black levels are virtually indistinguishable in normal lighting conditions.

My biggest problem with the display is that it seems perpetually dull, as if theres some kind of filter placed over the screen. When compared side-by-side with various smartphones, the problem is very apparent: The LG G6 display has a noticeable blue tint to it. To add to this, the automatic brightness setting maintains a very low brightness, making the screen seem even duller than it actually is.

Manually setting a higher brightness value is always an option, but even at its maximum value it seems duller than an iPhone 6s Plus display.

I attempted to measure the brightness by measuring the exposure using a digital camera (by looking at shutter speed at a fixed ISO and aperture value), and the detected brightness appeared to be on par with the iPhone. Now Im certainly not saying this was a very scientific measurement, but clearly, the blue tint is doing the display no favours.

As on the G5 before it, the G6 gives you an always-on display, an unusual choice for an LCD screen. However, LGs power management tools and display design mean that the power draw of the display unit in always-on mode is minimal. In airplane mode with the always-on display turned on, the phone barely lost 2 percent charge overnight. The always-on display is not as bright as that on the S8, however.

Coming to colour accuracy, I feel that the display on the S8 seems a bit oversaturated and I prefer the more natural colours of an iPhone LCD screen. The G6s display is not bad. The colour accuracy is decent and if it wasnt for the blue tint, I think it would have been very good.

The brightness in direct sunlight was good enough to keep text legible.

LG claims that the display is Dolby Vision ready, but it's not actually an HDR display (high dynamic range). A regular LCD panel has been tuned with an HDR panel for reference. The availability of HDR content is also very limited and neither Netflix nor Amazon Prime Video, both of which have shows that are Dolby Vision compatible, managed to run in HDR mode. The only HDR videos we could view had to be downloaded via an LG app.

Software: 7.5/10

On the software front, the phone is running Android 7.0 Nougat with the LG UX 6.0 skin on top. In terms of design, UX 6.0 is a minor bump to that on the G5. The icons are a tad more colourful and some of the fonts have been changed.

Overall, the UI isnt bad.

As with the display, its in the details and finish that LG falls short.

In some apps, the software buttons turn transparent, in others, theyre left as a black bar. In the camera app, the on-screen buttons disappear and you have to swipe up from the bottom to reach them. In other words, the response is inconsistent. The S8 also has the option of 3D touch to activate the home button, the G6 has no such option.

On the S8, it's easy to resize an app for the unusual aspect ratio  most phones employ a ratio of 16:9, the G6 and S8 use ratios of 18:9 and 18.5:9 respectively. The G6 requires you to dive into the Settings menu to scale apps. The S8 only requires you to tap on the multitasking button and another button after that. Apps like YouTube can't be scaled and videos will have vertical black bars on either side.

There are also a number of performance bugs that I think come down to bad coding than actual performance issues. Theres a swipe-down to search gesture for example, as on iOS, but the phone takes half a second to respond to the gesture and another half-second to start searching when you start typing.

The calling app also displays some lag at times and might take half a second to respond. Its small issues like this that make the G6 irritating to use. Hopefully, these bugs will be ironed out in later updates.

Ive used the OnePlus 3T and the Google Pixel, both of which run on similar hardware, and the performance on those devices is more consistent and very fluid.

Performance: 7/10

As mentioned in the software section, the janky performance seems to be an issue with the software rather than hardware. When it works, everything is fast and fluid. Apps run perfectly and there was never any stutter.

Heavy games like Asphalt and Real Racing also ran beautifully.

Strangely enough, synthetic benchmarks peg the G6 as performing worse than the G5 and the similarly specced Google Pixel and OnePlus 3T, which was very odd.

The phone did tend to get warm very fast, and this leads me to assume that the device might be suffering from a slight heating issue, resulting in the poor performance that I saw in the tests.

All tests were run thrice while the phone was in airplane mode. No background apps were running either.

Camera: 7/10

The camera system on the G6 consists of dual, 13 MP rear cameras and a 5 MP front camera. One rear camera is a normal lens while the other is a wide-angle one. The normal lens features an aperture of f/1.8 with OIS (optical image stabilisation) and phase detection autofocus (PDAF).

Strangely enough, the wide angle camera has no AF and an aperture of f/2.4. The lack of AF is a big deal.

As you can see from the images here, the camera isnt half bad. The excessive processing and noise reduction has a tendency to smear textures and details to the point that some images look like paintings when cropped, but overall colour accuracy is actually decent. As long as you dont zoom into the image or intend to crop anything out, the camera is fine.

The wide-angle lens is a novelty and its nice to have in certain situations. However, the lack of sharpness in texture and details can get annoying. To top it off, the camera doesnt seem to include any fancy hybrid modes of the type weve seen on Huaweis Leica-branded dual-cameras or Apple dual-camera.

All things considered, the LG G6 still cant hold a candle to any of the current flagships, though. The Pixel, the iPhone 7 Plus and the Galaxy S8 offer measurably better image quality, particularly in low light.

Worse still, images taken on the OnePlus 3T actually seem sharper. I would only classify the G6s camera performance as adequate and its wide-angle camera as a novelty.

The front camera is no better. Its 5 MP sensor is decent and it includes a faux dual-camera mode. There is only one camera on the front, so what youre actually getting is a wide-angle selfie camera that pretends to be a dual camera. Image quality in either mode is decent enough, but its nothing special.

By default, the regular rear camera shoots in the 18:9 aspect ratio at 9.7 MP. Id strongly suggest you avoid that because a) few people have a phone with an 18:9 display, b) the 18:9 aspect ratio cuts down on the field of view c) youre losing precious megapixels.

Battery life: 8.5/10

With a 3,300 mAh battery and Android 7.0, I expected a great deal of battery life from the G6, and I got it. The phone would easily last me a full work day, which involves around two hours of video and music, hundreds of messages and dozens of calls.

Standby time was also impressive.

Surprisingly, our standardised battery benchmark, which involved PCMark 8s battery benchmark loop running on a device with a fixed brightness, no background apps and the device in airplane mode, rated the G6 at an abysmal 6.5 hours. This is shocking when you consider the fact that the Google Pixel comfortably crossed the 12-hour mark. I ran the battery benchmark twice and got the same result both times.

I dont know whats at fault here, because real world battery life was much better than the synthetic benchmark lets on. Standby time was also exceptional.

The phone charges very fast as well, going from zero to 100 percent in about two hours.

Verdict and price in India

I really wanted to like the G6. The concept videos and the initial leaks described a stunning phone. But LG was too late. LG made a grave mistake by launching this phone after the stunning Samsung Galaxy S8.

Weve had the S8 in our office for weeks now and instantly fell in love with its design and performance. After experiencing the star that is the S8, the G6 simply feels like an extra.

Compared to the S8, the G6 is justbland. If the phone had launched alongside the Pixel in November, it may have stood a chance, but even that is debatable.

Today, with a stunner like the S8 already in the market, I cannot think of any reason to recommend this phone over the S8. I mean, why would you? The S8 is more elegant, more refined in design, better built, offers much better performance, a much better camera, a better display, high-quality headphones, better battery life and is even worth bragging about.

The G6 is in a very awkward spot. Its not as budget-friendly as the OnePlus 3T, and it neednt be, but its also doesnt deserve to be called a flagship.

If you have over Rs 50,000, youll want the Galaxy S8, if you dont want to spend that much, youll take the OnePlus 3T. The G6 is in an awkward spot with neither price, performance nor even design doing it any favours.

The G6 isnt a bad phone, but its no flagship.

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Nokia Technologies unveiled Healthier Together, a first-of-its-kind immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience for consumers to discover its new portfolio of digital health products. The VR campaign advances digital advertising, allowing consumers to not only discover Nokias new digital health products and solutions, but to interact with them and, in a first for VR, make purchases directly through an immersive experience which highlights a familys journey to being healthier together.

Created in partnership with innovation marketing agency Brandwidth, the Healthier Together VR ad was created using Nokias own award winning OZO+ camera and software which enable the high-quality content capture and seamless production of immersive VR experiences for advertising and marketing professionals. It features Mixed Reality pop-up views of the Nokia Health Mate app and descriptions of the products, in addition to a first-of-its-kind e-commerce integration in which viewers can click through the pop-ups to the Nokia Health site and purchase the products directly.

Nokia is launching the broadest range of consumer digital health products on the market and we wanted to show how easy it is to live healthier together with them. VR was the natural choice to immerse the viewer in a real environment with a real family and Brandwidth have been great partners in realizing that vision, said Rob Le Bras-Brown, CMO of Nokia Technologies. Im especially proud of this new campaign because it exemplifies the breadth of innovation at Nokia today  using award winning OZO VR technology to showcase our exciting new health products.

The VR ad experience kicks off the Healthier Together marketing campaign that will support the launch of Nokia digital health products. The full portfolio will include Nokia branded smart watches, connected scales, blood pressure monitors and other consumer health devices that will be available in store and online in key markets worldwide.

We are truly excited to be working with Nokia and the brilliant OZO+ VR camera and Creator software in producing this revolutionary new immersive advertising piece for the launch of the innovative Nokia health products, said Matt Littler, Brandwidth Head of Moving Image. Our Nokia VR ad allows viewers to explore and reveal details of the products within the content and go on to purchase with built in e-commerce and payment functionality. This marks a shift in advertising; gone is the created reality of standard media, and now we have a far deeper level of truth, that we invite you to see the products in real time, first hand!

Technuter.com News Service
Sony India today announced the new 4K HDR television series designed to deliver even wider brightness range and higher contrast. The new BRAVIA TVs make the best use of 4K HDR (High Dynamic Range) content with the combination of their unique image processor and display device technologies.

Sonys 4K line-up has witnessed a positive progression with 17 models being launched in FY17 compared to 11 models in FY16. The expansion is attributed to 4K technology making a push into the mainstream, as consumers are now aggressively consuming 4K content from various online streaming services. The growing demand for larger screen segments is also one of the aspects boosting the segments succession.

4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme

The world of HDR has been greatly expanding with the advent of video streaming services like Netflix, amazon prime and recently with PlayStation 4 gaming.

Now more than ever before, accurate image processing is playing a crucial role in delivering dazzling picture quality.

Sonys 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme has been widely acclaimed for its ability to produce lifelike picture with superb texture, depth, colour, and contrast, bringing a significant leap forward in the space of HDR. With the introduction of the new 2017 line-up this technological prowess will now cater to a broader audience.

Slim Backlight Drive+ for the extraordinary brightness

The new X9500E & X9300E series features Slim Backlight Drive+, an improved LED Backlight technology allowing more precise and accurate local diming control compared to a conventional Backlight Drive. One can now enjoy the best of both worlds  exceptionally detailed pictures in an ultra slim design.

X-tended dynamic range PRO

With its quad-edge LED structure and X-tended Dynamic Range PRO local dimming and boosting technology, it enhances the brightness and contrast details- in fact delivering 10 times the XDR contrast of conventional LED TV.

New Slice of living design

BRAVIA aims to deliver a light, comfortable look that would match with modern-living sensibilities. All the different design elements tie into that basic approach. The stand embodies a sleek, chair-like presence. The back panel evokes textures of walls and fabric, and the bold combinations of smooth, warm materials add an exquisite stroke to the canvas of contemporary spatial design. The use of thin bezel helps hide the boundaries between the living space and the visual content, thus making the viewer feel the immersive BRAVIA experience.

Android Nougat 7.0

The new X series runs on the latest Android TV version 7.0 (Nougat) with

Sonys exclusive user interface. Sonys Android TV lets one explore the world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more.

Direct access keys for Netflix, Google play Store & YouTube

The series comes with dedicated direct access buttons for Netflix, Google play Store & YouTube. This effortless navigation provides users an opportunity to explore videos & apps in the fastest way.

Smartphone plug and play

Customers can now enjoy smartphone contents (Photos, Music or Videos) on their

BRAVIA with an ease to use feature. One can simply connect an Android smartphone

to BRAVIA through a micro USB cable and navigate all smartphone contents using TV remote that too with better picture and sound. The feature also enables navigation through smartphone contents using TV Remote, whereas color keys can be used to toggle between.

X9500E Series

The flagship series with Sonys powerful picture & sound technologies delivers the ultimate viewing experience. The front facing slim Magnetic Fluid speakers produce a full range of crisp, distortion-free sound. Together with High-Resolution Audio support, these innovative speakers reproduce your contents with an immersive surround effect.

Features Slim Backlight Drive+ with a unique quad-edge LED structure, allowing precise local dimming control which provides exceptional brightness and deeper blacks than a conventional full-array LED TV in an ultra slim design.

Features 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme, providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience by incorporating three new technologies: Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping 4K HDR and Dual database processing.

X-tended Dynamic Range PRO enhances HDR and non-HDR content by boosting and dimming the backlight levels precisely for each zone of the screen with a unique backlighting technology (10 times XDR contrast 1 ).

). Features vibrant, expanded colour with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for colour accuracy.

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

The X95E Series, a high-end fusion of stunning 4K HDR visuals and phenomenal interior design, features a back panel that makes the product look right at home wherever it stands in a living room environment. Rounding out the back panels ensemble is the leather texture of the rear cover, which helps augment the visual presence.

With slim, chair-like legs on a thin slate to accentuate the lightness of the overall look and provide balanced support, the stand houses all cables, simplifying the leg area.

The ultra slim design allows for swivel wall mounting and clean cable management for table top mount.

Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Chromecast built-in, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play, you can enjoy what you like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.

Sonys exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port. Supports Dolby Vision HDR format.

Enjoy seamless Bluetooth connectivity with A2DP support. Experience superior sound quality with a wide range of Sony wireless headphones.

X9400E/X9300E Series

Features Slim Backlight Drive+ with a unique quad-edge LED structure, allowing precise local dimming control which provides exceptional brightness and deeper blacks than a conventional full-array LED TV in an ultra slim design (X9300E only).

Features 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme, providing the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience by incorporating three new technologies: Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping 4K HDR and Dual database processing.

X-tended Dynamic Range PRO enhances HDR and non-HDR content by boosting and dimming the backlight levels precisely for each zone of the screen with a unique backlighting technology (10 times XDR contrast).

Features vibrant, expanded colour with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for colour accuracy.

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

A high-end fusion of stunning 4K HDR visuals and phenomenal interior design features a back panel that makes the product look right at home wherever it stands in a living room environment. Rounding out the back panels ensemble is the leather texture of the rear cover, which helps augment the visual presence.

With slim, chair-like legs on a thin slate to accentuate the lightness of the overall look and provide balanced support, the stand houses all cables, simplifying the leg area. The bottoms of the two slates are staggered verticallyand thats to create a space for the speakers to emit sound straight ahead, maximizing the quality of the audio.

The ultra slim design allows for flush with the swivel wall mounting and clean cable management for table top mount.

Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Chromecast built-in, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play, you can enjoy what you like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.

Sonys exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port. Supports Dolby Vision HDR format.

Enjoy seamless Bluetooth connectivity with A2DP support. Experience superior sound quality with a wide range of Sony wireless headphones.

X9000E Series

Features 4K HDR Processor X1, reproducing more depth, textures and natural colours with Object-based HDR remaster and Super Bit Mapping 4K HDR technology.

X-tended Dynamic Range PRO enhances HDR and non-HDR content by boosting and dimming the backlight levels precisely for each zone of the screen with a unique backlighting technology (5 times XDR contrast).

Features vibrant, expanded colour with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for colour accuracy.

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

The X9000E Series features a design that takes minimal presence to a new level. The stand, which combines a low-profile slate and slender legs for support, underscores that light feel with gentle curves. On the back panel, meanwhile, the slimmed-down peripheral area finishes off the total form with a svelte grace.

Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Chromecast built-in, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play, you can enjoy what you like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.

Sonys exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port.

Enjoy seamless Bluetooth connectivity with A2DP support. Experience superior sound quality with a wide range of Sony wireless headphones.

X8200E Series

Features vibrant, expanded colour with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for colour accuracy.

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

This series features Sonys new 4 x 4 Sound System .The large-capacity two-way speaker system features a tweeter and woofer for both the left and right channels, each individually powered by its own separate amplifier. By driving each speaker independently, the system reproduces a crisper, more dynamic sound. Movies come alive with crystal clear dialogue and exhilarating sound effects.

The ultra slim form factor comes with sleek rear design and clean cable management for table top mount.

Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Chromecast built-in, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play, you can enjoy what you like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.

Sonys exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port.

X7500E Series

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

The ultra slim form factor comes with sleek rear design and clean cable management for table top mount.

Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Chromecast built-in, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play, you can enjoy what you like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.

Sonys exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port.

X7002E Series

Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sonys unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasts, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.

The ultra slim form factor comes with sleek rear design and clean cable management for table top mount.

Internet TV allows customers to access a wide range of online contents with the ease of built in wifi support

Go straight to YouTube and enjoy all your favourite videos. Experience YouTube faster than ever on this Internet-ready TV with the special YouTube button on the remote control for easy browsing.

Wide variety of built in apps from Sony & Opera TV store allows customers to stream contents, play games & a lot more.

The above mentioned 4K HDR models will be available in all Sony Center and electronic stores across India.

Model name Availability MRP KD-65X9500E To be launched on 20th June, 2017  KD-55X9500E To be launched on 20th June, 2017  KD-65X9300E Available Rs. 3,64,900 KD-55X9300E Available Rs. 2,64,900 KD-65X9000E Available Rs. 2,84,900 KD-55X9000E Available Rs. 2,04,990 KD-49X9000E Available Rs. 1,54,990 KD-55X8200E Available Rs. 1,54,900 KD-49X8200E Available Rs. 1,24,900 KD-43X8200E Available Rs. 87,900 KD-49X7500E Coming soon  KD-43X7500E Coming soon  KD-65X7002E Coming soon  KD-55X7002E Coming soon  KD-49X7002E To be launched on 20th June, 2017  KD-43X7002E Available Rs. 72,900

Technuter.com News Service
Britain seeks `special` EU ties as Brexit talks start

The European Union\'s Chief Brexit negotiator Michael Barnier A welcomes Britain\'s Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union David Davis at the European Commission ahead of their first day of talks in Brussels on Monday.

Reuters, Brussels :

Brexit Secretary David Davis arrived in Brussels on Monday to launch talks he hoped would produce a "new, deep and special partnership" with the EU in the interest of Britons and all Europeans.

Beaming as he met the European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier at the EU executive's Berlaymont headquarters, the veteran campaigner for Britain to quit the bloc said he aimed for a "positive and constructive" tone in the talks, adding: "There is more that unites us than divides us."

Barnier, a former French minister, has voiced impatience in the past that Britain has taken nearly a year to open talks. Looking more somber than his British counterpart, he said he hoped they could agree a format and timetable on Monday.

His priority, he said, was to clear up the uncertainties which last June's Brexit vote had created. He and Davis are due to give a joint news conference in the evening.

Almost a year to the day since Britons shocked themselves and their neighbors by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main trading partner, and nearly three months since Prime Minister Theresa May locked them into a two-year countdown to Brexit in March 2019, almost nothing about the future is clear.

Even May's own immediate political survival is in doubt, 10 days after she lost her majority in an election.

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe that May's government may at last be coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.

May's election debacle has revived feuding over Europe among Conservatives that her predecessor David Cameron hoped to end by calling the referendum and leaves EU leaders unclear on her plan for a "global Britain" which most of them regard as pure folly.

While "Brexiteers" like Davis have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties.
Head of major Taiwan bank held over 'illegal loans'

AFP, Taipei :

The head of a major Taiwanese bank has been detained on suspicion of granting illegal loans, just months after another banking scandal rocked the island's financial sector.

SinoPac Holdings chairman Ho Shou-chuan and two others are being probed over an alleged Tw$5 billion ($164.8 million) of loans made to an "offshore company with no real operations".

It is not yet clear what relationship they have with the firm that received the money. The case comes after the ex-chairman of Mega International Commercial Bank was indicted in December on charges including insider trading.

That followed a massive $180 million fine slapped on Mega by American authorities after they said they found "suspicious transactions" between its New York and Panama branches.

Taipei District Court approved on Sunday a request by prosecutors to take Sinopac's Ho and the other two suspects into custody, saying there was a risk of evidence tampering or collusion.


Adieu Ramzan 2017

Life Desk :

Every year millions of Muslim across the globe fast from dawn to dusk during Ramzan, the ninth month in the Muslim calendar. It is considered as the holiest month and this year it starts from May 26 and ends on June 24. The objective of the fast is to remind the suffering of the less fortunate people and to bring the followers closer to God. As mentioned in the holy book, Quran, Muslims, during this month, are supposed to donate alms to the poor and feed the hungry.

The fast begins at dawn and must continue till dusk. In the interim eating or drinking anything is strictly prohibited. Muslims celebrate Eid-al-Fitr, one of their most important festivals, to mark the end of Ramzan.

Ramzan is a time to detach from worldly pleasures and focus on one's prayers. During this month, Muslims spend more time at the mosque than at any other time of the year. Fasting during Ramzan is one of the five pillars of Islam, along with the Muslim declaration of faith, daily prayer, charity, and performing the hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. The month of Ramzan is a self-exercise in restraint.

Apart from offering namaz five times every day, Muslims are also expected to recite the Quran before breaking their fast. To prepare for the fast, Muslims eat what is commonly called "suhoor," a pre-dawn meal.

The reason for fasting and ways to break it

Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed during Ramzan, the ninth month of Islamic calendar. To break the fast, a large, sumptuous feast known as "iftar" is prepared. It includes an array of different fruits, fries and other delicacies which are shared among the members of the family. Needless to say, it is a highly anticipated event, and preparations for it begin from the afternoon itself.

Across the Arab world, juices made from apricots are a staple at Ramzan iftars. In South Asia and Turkey, yogurt-based drinks are popular. Across the Muslim world, mosques and aid organisations set up tents and tables for the public to eat free "iftar" meals every night of Ramzan.

Though the Quran harps on the need to fast during the holy month of Ramzan, it also has room for some exceptions. Children, pregnant women, elderly and unwell people and girls who are menstruating are allowed not to fast.

Different traditions during Ramzan

Muslims during Ramzan generally greet each other saying, "Ramzan mubarak!" and Sunni Muslims go to the mosque at night to offer prayers, the practice is known as "taraweeh". In Egypt, lantern called "fanoos," which is often placed at the centre of the iftar table, can sometimes be seen hanging in window shops and balconies during Ramzan. In the Gulf countries, wealthy sheikhs hold "majlises" where they open their doors for people to pass by all hours of the night for food, tea, coffee and conversation. Several restaurants also keep their doors open till the wee hours in the morning, and offer lavish meals.

How does it end

The end of Ramzan is marked by intense prayers as Muslims seek to have their prayers answered during "Laylat al-Qadr" or "the Night of Destiny." It is on this night, which falls during one of the last 10 nights of Ramzan, that Muslims believe God sent the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad and revealed the first versus of the Quran.

The end of the month is celebrated with grandeur and celebrations. Children wear new clothes, and people visit their friends and relatives, and together celebrate the holy festival - Eid al-Fitr.

(With inputs from AP)


Online therapy can help military personnel treat insomnia

Life Desk :

Chronic insomnia can be treated with Cognitive behavioral therapy, by paying a regular, weekly visits to the clinician, reveals a new study by the American College of Physicians and other organizations.

For military personnel, internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy appears to be an effective alternative to meeting regularly with a therapist, although it is about half as effective as traditional methods, according to results of a study conducted by Daniel Taylor, University of North Texas professor of psychology and director of UNT's Sleep Health Research Laboratory.

'Treating insomnia can prevent post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and drug abuse, absenteeism and work accidents.'

Taylor received a $1.16 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense for the study, which was affiliated with the STRONG STAR Consortium, a federally funded network of national experts seeking the best ways to treat behavioral health problems impacting post-9/11 service members and veterans.

The study was published in SLEEP, the official journal of the Sleep Research Society.

Chronic insomnia is defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as sleeping poorly at least three nights a week for a month or longer, despite adequate opportunity for a full night's sleep.

It is "a significant problem in the military," said Taylor, who noted that military personnel often develop insomnia because of rapidly changing schedules and deployments that keep them constantly on alert.

Chronic insomnia is a strong risk factor for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and substance abuse, absenteeism and occupational accidents, Taylor said. Treatment of insomnia may not only improve sleep in these soldiers, but also improve these other conditions, he said.

"About 10 percent of deployed military personnel take sleep medications, which are effective for short-term treatment of insomnia in civilian populations. For deployed military personnel, the side effects such as grogginess, slowed cognitive processing and slowed reaction time can be dangerous," Taylor said.

One hundred soldiers at Fort Hood who had chronic insomnia were recruited for Taylor's study. All completed one week of sleep monitoring by keeping sleep diaries and wearing activity monitors.

One third of the participants met with clinicians at Fort Hood for cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia once a week for six weeks, while another third received the therapy via the Internet once a week for six weeks.

Both the in-person and Internet therapy had the exact same content, with the Internet lessons presented as audio recordings accompanied by visual graphics and animations.

A third control group of participants was contacted by the researchers every other week during the six weeks, but did not receive cognitive behavioral therapy.

Taylor discovered that the study participants who received in-person cognitive behavioral treatment for their insomnia reported significantly greater improvements in sleep quality as determined by the sleep diaries and activity monitors-than those who received the Internet therapy.

Both groups had greater improvements in sleep quality than those who did not receive cognitive behavioral therapy.

He noted that that cognitive behavioral therapy is "a multifaceted intervention that can be difficult to administer without the benefit of a therapist." Additional training in the therapy for behavioral health providers in all branches of the military is needed, he said.

In a previous study of civilians with insomnia, Taylor and his research team discovered that cognitive behavioral therapy led to significant improvements in sleep efficiency, with the research subjects' use of sleep medication declining from 87.5 percent before therapy to 54 percent afterward, although the subjects weren't required to stop taking their medication.

Kristi Pruiksma, a STRONG STAR collaborating investigator and clinical psychologist, served as a clinician on Taylor's study. She said the benefits of the online therapy include easy access to the treatment and flexibility in times for completing the sessions, which "is really helpful for those juggling work and family demands."

"The online program can also be done from home rather than at a military behavioral health clinic, which some service members may avoid due to concerns about stigma," said Pruiksma, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio).

"Successful treatment has a real impact on patients' daily lives. An important next step will be to figure out who is able to achieve good benefits from the online program and who is likely to need additional assistance from a therapist," she said.

Source: Eurekalert
8,000 flats to be constructed for freedom fighters, JS told





The government will construct 8,000 flats across the country for insolvent freedom fighters, Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haque on Monday said.

"The Liberation War Affairs Ministry has undertaken a project for constructing 8,000 flats for insolvent freedom fighters across the country, while multistoried building would be built in every district and upazila in ratio of the freedom fighters,|" he said in reply to a starred question from treasury bench member Mahfuzur Rahman (Chittagong-3) in the house.

The minister said the present government has taken a scheme titled "The construction of houses for improving the living standard of the landless and involvement freedom fighters. "The project is being implemented at an estimated cost of Tk 271.12 crore and under the scheme, a one pucca house of 500 square feet is being built," he said.

He added: "There would be an arrangement for water supply and common toilet facilities in the house."

Mozammel said the housing project is being implemented in every upazila, and a target has been set to build a total of 2,971 houses under the scheme.

He said a list of 2713 landless and insolvent has so far been received and the construction work of 2263 houses have been completed for them.

The minister said the construction work of 387 houses is underway and tender has been floated for building of the remaining houses.

Moreover, he said, District Freedom Fighter Complexes in all district headquarters and Upazila Freedom Fighter Complexes in all upazilas are being constructed.

"It would help raise income of the freedom fighters," Mozammel said.
Shafa'at by Rasulullah (Sm)

Abdul Muqit Chowdhury :

Some Verses of the Holy Quran on The Day of Judgment and Shafa'at (Intercession) are quoted below:

"Say : Unto Allah belongeth all intercession. He is the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth.

And afterward into Him ye will be brought back." (Verse 44, Az-Zumar 39, The Meanings of the Glorious Qur'an by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall)

"Say : To God belongs/Exclusively (the right/To grant) Intercession :/To Him belongs the dominion/Of the heavens and the earth!/In the End, it is to Him/That ye shall be/Brought back." (Verse 44, Az-Zumar 39, The Holy Qur'an Translation and Commentary by A. Yusuf Ali)

"They will have no power of intercession, save him who hath made a covenant with his Lord." (Verse 87, Maryam 19, The Meanings of the Glorious Qur'an by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall)

"None shall have the power/Of intercession, but such a one/As has received permission (or promise)/From God most Gracious." (Verse 87, Maryam 19, The Holy Qur'an Translation and Commentary by A. Yusuf Ali)

"On that Day as intercession availeth save (that of) him unto whom the Beneficient hath given leave and whom He accepteth." (Verse 109, Ta-Ha 20, the Meanings of the Glorious Holy Qur'an by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall)

"On that Day shall no/Intercession avail/Except for those for whom/Permission has been granted/By (God) Most Gracious /And whose word is/Acceptable to Him." (Verse 109, Ta-Ha 20, The Holy Qur'an Translation and Commentary by A. Yusuf Ali)

"No intercession availeth with Him save for him whom He permiteth. Yet when fear is vanished from their hearts, they say : what was it that your Lord said ? They say : The Truth. And He is the Sublime, the Great." (Verse 23, Saba 34, The Meanings of the Glorious Qur'an by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall)

"No intercession can avail/In His Presence, except for those /For whom He has granted/Permission. So far (is this/The case) that, when terror/Is removed from their hearts/(At the Day of Judgment then) /Will they say, 'What is it/That your Lord commanded?'/They will say, 'that which is/True and just ; and He is/The Most High, Most Great." (Verse 23, Saba 34, The Holy Qur'an Translation and Commentary by A. Yusuf Ali)

Allama Yusuf Ali comments on Shafa'at (Intercession, Advocacy) : ".... It follows that no one can intercede with God, except (1) by God's permission, and (2) for those who have prepared themselves by penitence for God's acceptance. Even in earthly courts, Advocacy is not permitted to any one : The Advocate must be granted the position of Advocate before he can plead before the judge. Nor can it be supposed that a plea for forgiveness or mercy can be put forward except on grounds recognised by equity and justice." (The Holy Qur'an Translation and Commentary by A. Yusuf Ali, P.1251)

"Here man is in the accusative case governed by Tanfa'u, and it is better to construe as I have done. That is, intercession will benefit no one except those for whom God has granted permission, and whose word (of repentance) is true and sincere, and therefore acceptable to God.

"Others construe : no intercession will avail, except by those to whom God has granted permission, and whose word (of intercession) is acceptable to God" (Do, P.813)

According to our Iman (Faith) as Muslims we believe in The Day of Judgment and Shafa'at (Intercession) by Saiyedul Mursalin Khatimun Nabiyin Hazrat Muhammad (Sm). The above quoted Verses focus on him and are related with his Prophethood to seek forgiveness of Allah on behalf of the members of his Ummat for salvation.

At first we should know that "unto Allah belongeth all intercession". "To God belongs/Exclusively (the right/To grant) Intercession:" And then "save him who hath made a covenant with his Lord", "but such a one/As has received permission (or promise)/From God Most Gracious." "save (that of) him unto whom the Beneficient hath given leave and whom He accepteth.", "for whom permission has been granted", "save for him whom He permiteth." "for whom He has granted permission". Rasulullah (Sm) is : "save for him whom He permitteth."

The Verses on Shafa'at (Intercession) in the Day of Judgment of Allah Rabbul 'Alameen in the Holy Quran are :

Sura Al-Baqarah 2: 48, 123, 254, 255 An-Nisa 4:85 Al-An'am 6: 51,70 Al-A'raf 7 : 46, 47, 48, 49 Yunus 10 : 3 Maryam 19:87 Ta-Ha 20: 109 Al-Anbia 21:28 As-Sajdah 32:4 Saba 34: 23 Az-Zumar 39 : 43, 44 Az-Zukhruf 43: 86 An-Najm 53: 26 Al-Muddaththir 74: 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48 Kauthar 108 : 1, 2, 3 (Al-Quraner Bishoybhittik Ayat Prothom Khondo, P.455-459. Islamic Foundation Bangladesh, Dhaka)

The Verses on Rasul, Risalat and Wahy (Revelation):

Sura Al-Baqarah 2 : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 23, 24, 87, 98, 119, 129, 143, 151, 213, 251, 252, 253, 285 Al-i-'Imran : 3 : 32, 81, 86, 132, 144, 161, 164, 184 An-Nisa 4: 13, 14, 59, 64, 65, 69, 79, 80, 115, 136, 163, 164, 165, 170, 171 Al-Ma'ida 5: 15, 16, 19, 33, 41, 42, 55, 56, 67, 92, 99 Al-An'am 6: 8, 9, 10, 34, 35, 42, 48, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 91, 112 Al-A'raf 7 : 6, 35, 59, 73, 85, 94, 144, 145, 157, 158, 188, 203 Al-Anfal 8: 20, 21, 24, 27, 46, 64, 65 At-Taubah 9: 24, 33, 63, 70, 113, 128, 129 Yunus 10 : 2, 13, 47, 94, 95, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109 Hud 11:12,13, 25,26,36,96,97,120 Yusuf 12: 3, 102, 108, 109, 110 Ar-Ra'd 13: 30, 37, 38 Ibrahim 14: 4, 5 Al-Hijr 15: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 An-Nahl 16: 2, 36, 43, 44, 63, 64, 113 Al-Israa /Bani Israil 17 : 15, 94, 95, 105, 106 Al-Kahf 18 : 56, 110 Maryam 19 : 41, 51, 54, 56 Ta Ha 20 : 77 Al-Anbia 21: 73, 107, 108 Al-Hajj 22: 52, 53, 54, 75 Al-Mu'minun 23 : 44, 45, 46 An-Nur 24: 54 Al- Furqan 25: 7, 8, 20, 41, 42, 56, 57, 58 Al-Naml 27: 45 Al-Qasas 28 : 43, 59 Al-'Anqabut 29: 14, Ar-Rum 30 :47 Al-Ahzab 33: 1, 2, 3, 21, 36, 38, 39, 40, 45, 46, 47, 48 Saba 34 : 28, 34, 35 Al-Malaikah/ Fatir 35: 24, 25 Ya-Sin 36: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 30 As-Saffat 37 : 171, 172, 181 Saad 38: 70 Al-Mu-min 50 : 51, 78 Fussilat/ Ha, Mim, As- Sajda 41: 43 Ash-Shura 42 : 3, 7, 51, 52, Az-Zukhruf 43: 23, 24, 43, 44, 45 Al-Ahqaf 46 : 7, 8, 9 Muhammad 47: 32, 33 Al-Fath 48 : 8, 9, 13, 17, 27, 29 Al-Hujurat 49: 7, 14, 15 Az-Zariat 51: 52 Al-Al-Hadid 57 : 7, 8, 19, 25, 26, 27, Al-Muzadilah 58 : 5, 12, 20, 21 Al-Hashr 59: 4, 7 As-Saff 61 : 9 Al-Jum'a 62 : 2 Al-Tagabun : 64 : 5, 6, 12 Al-Talaq 65 : 8, Al-Haqqa : 69 : 10 Al-Muzzammil 73 : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Al-Qiamat 75 : 16, 17, 18 Al-'Alaq 96 : 1,2, 3, 4, 5.

(Al Quraner Bishoybhittik Ayat Prothom Khondo, P.302-347, Islamic Foundation Bangladesh, Dhaka)
Mayor Miru suspended

UNB, Dhaka :

Sirajganj Shahjadpur municipality mayor Halimul Haque Miru, an accused in journalist Shimul murder case, and counsillor Abdur Razzak have been suspended on Monday.

The Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives issued separate

circulars in this regard as a court accepted chargesheet against them in journalist Shimul murder case, said Zakir Hossain, public relations officer of the ministry.

Shimul, Shahjadpur upazila correspondent of vernacular daily the Dainik Samakal, sustained bullet injuries during a clash between activists of two associate bodies of Awami League in Shahjadpur of Siraganj on February 2. He later died on the way to Dhaka on February 3.

On May 2 last, police pressed charges against 38 people, including Miru and Abdur Razzak, in the murder case.
Expulsion of Qataris from Gulf states comes into effect

Al Jazeera News :

The deadline for Qatari citizens to leave neighbouring Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain came into effect on Monday, as the diplomatic rift enters its third week with no end in sight.

The three countries, which cut diplomatic ties and imposed an economic blockade on Qatar on June 5, had given Qatari citizens 14 days to leave.

They also urged their own citizens in Qatar to leave and threatened imprisonment and fines for anyone who criticises the measures. Officials of the three states later clarified there would be exceptions for mixed-nationality families.

Rights group Amnesty International said, however, such measures are "clearly insufficient to address the human rights impact of the arbitrary, blanket measures."

Amnesty International said it "shows utter contempt for human dignity".

"This arbitrary deadline has caused widespread uncertainty and dread amongst thousands of people who fear they will be separated from their loved ones," Amnesty's James Lynch said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain have all announced hotlines to help families with Qatari members, their official news agencies said last week. These hotlines have been criticised by Qatari human rights groups as "little more than a face-saving" exercise.

On Wednesday, the UN human rights chief Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein said he was "alarmed" by the possible impact of the diplomatic isolation of Qatar, warning it could lead to widespread suffering among ordinary people.

He said the directives issued by Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain to address the humanitarian needs of families with joint nationalities appeared to be inadequate, and his office had received reports of specific individuals being ordered to return home or to leave the country they are residing in.
15 bitten by fox

UNB, Munshiganj :

At least 15 people, including a woman, were injured as a fox bit them at Patharghata and Bazarkhola villages in Sirajdikhan upazila on Sunday night.

The victims were admitted to Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH) at Mohakhali in the capital.

According to villagers, a fox bit seven people at Patharghata village between 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm. They are Sabbir, 10, Salim Kazi, 33, Julhash, 55, Foyez Uddin, 30,

Al Amin, 30, Musa Maji, 55, and Rezia Begum, 55.

Moreover, six more people were attacked by a fox at Bazarkhola village in the upazila and their identities could not be known immediately.

Following the incident, panic gripped the villagers. And they are not going outside after evening, sources said.

Sayem Hossain Murad, a village doctor, said some of the victims came to him for taking treatment but he referred all of them at IDH in Dhaka to take vaccine.

When contacted, Sirajdikhan Upazila Health Officer Dr Dulal Hossain said that he was not aware of such incident.
SMEs are key to inclusive trade

Daniela Vincenti :

Trade has become a scapegoat for complex challenges and many countries, such as the US and the UK, have withdrawn into protectionism. Experts say SMEs should be the starting point for more inclusive global trade and more responsible supply chains.

"Open trade, rooted in multilateral institutions like the WTO, remains the best way forward. But market opening alone is not enough," said Arancha Gonzales, executive director at the International Trade Centre, in Brussels on Thursday (15 June).

"Protectionism is an intellectually lazy answer to the challenges posed by globalisation," she added, pushing for new ideas to mainstream sustainability across the global supply chain.

Gonzales' remarks came as the UK heads toward negotiations to exit the European Union and Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris climate agreement.

Meanwhile, the EU has issued its own mea culpa and begun pushing for the benefits of globalisation to be shared more equally. In a reflection paper on harnessing globalisation published in May, the European Commission noted that the free flow of goods and capital is no longer an absolute source of prosperity: it is a wild reality to be harnessed in order to control its intrinsically dark nature.

EU facing up to deficits of globalisation

After almost two decades of neglecting the flaws of free trade, the European Commission admitted yesterday (10 May) that it is high time to share the benefits of globalisation.

According to free trade advocates, protectionism would reduce purchasing power and weaken productivity growth by decreasing specialisation, competition, and scale.

"It might save a factory here and there, but at the cost of making entire societies poorer than they otherwise would have been," Gonzales said. It is then crucial to make trade more inclusive so that everybody benefits from globalisation, starting with the participation in the global marketplace of the businesses that employ the vast majority of the workforce.

Davos warns 'squeezed' middle class needs attention

Threatened by unemployment and stagnant wages, the middle class is increasingly feeling the pinch and falling prey to populism, as shown in recent elections and the Brexit vote, international and business leaders in Davos warned.

Here, Germany's Mittelstand stands as the iconic symbol of how a globally connected SME sector is closely tied into bigger companies' value chains.

Cutting fixed costs

"SMEs can increase economic dynamism while fostering a more equitable distribution of the fruits of growth," said the ITC executive director.

To make that happen experts value policies that reduce fixed costs related to trade, like complex border procedures and the need to meet various product standards.

Christian Ewert, the Foreign Trade Association director general, notes that there needs to be an alignment of standards across different global trade regions, including China.

Businesses and governments should not be afraid of China participating in setting standards, rather the contrary, he said. Pushing China to come up with their own standards is counterproductive and it is better to start an inclusive process to which they can contribute, Ewert insisted. The complex variety of sustainability standards is a no way street and a real handicap for SMEs, agreed Gonzales. "Inclusive trade means setting norms that are not unnecessarily complicated," she said. Standard-setting is basically no longer the remit of government agencies alone. In many market segments, private standards count far more than public ones.

"Setters of voluntary sustainability standards should strive to avoid needless duplication, and work to support compliance by smaller companies," said the trade expert.

A standard is only responsible if it provides for incremental SME compliance. For example, the ITC's Trade for Sustainable Development principles set out some guidelines for ensuring that sustainability initiatives live up to their name.

"Responsible trade has to be environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive, rooted in cooperation based on shared rules. Governments and businesses have the tools to make it happen," she said.

EURACTIV.com
BD still hosts largest number of refugees: Report

UNB, Dhaka :

The number of refugees from Myanmar rose to 490,300 by the end of 2016, from 451,800 the previous year with Bangladesh remaining to host the largest number of them - 276,200, says a new global report.

Out of the 276,200 refugees from Myanmar in Bangladesh, 243,000 are in a refugee-like situation, according to a report published on Monday by UNHCR ahead of the World Refugee Day that falls on June 20.

The government of Bangladesh, however, estimates the population to be between 300,000 and 500,000.

Other countries with large numbers of refugees from Myanmar included Thailand (102,600), Malaysia (87,000), and India (15,600), said the report.

It said war, violence and persecution worldwide are causing more people than ever to be forcibly displaced.

The UN Refugee Agency's new Global Trends report, the organisation's major annual survey of the state of displacement, says at the end of 2016 there were 65.6 million people forcibly displaced worldwide-some 300,000 more than a year earlier.

This total represents an enormous number of people needing protection worldwide.

The figure of 65.6 million comprises three important components. First is refugee numbers, which at 22.5 million are the highest ever seen.

"By any measure this is an unacceptable number, and it speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, and ensuring together that the world's refugees, internally displaced and asylum seekers are properly protected and cared for while solutions are pursued," said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.

He added, "We have to do better for these people. For a world in conflict, what is needed is determination and courage, not fear."

Among the report's key findings, is that new displacement in particular remains very high.

Of the 65.6 million people forcibly displaced globally, 10.3 million became displaced in 2016, about two-thirds of them (6.9 million) fleeing within their own countries. This equates to one person becoming displaced every 3 seconds - less than the time it takes to read this sentence.

At the same time, returns of refugees and internally displaced people to their homes, combined with other solutions such as resettlement in third countries meant that for some, 2016 brought the prospect of improvement. Some 37 countries together accepted 189,300 refugees for resettlement.

Around half a million other refugees were able to return to their home countries, and about 6.5 million internally displaced people to their areas of origin - although many did so in less than ideal circumstances and facing uncertain prospects.

Worldwide, most refugees - 84 per cent - were in low- or middle-income countries as of end 2016, with one in every three (4.9 million people) being hosted by the least developed countries.

This huge imbalance reflects several things including the continuing lack of consensus internationally when it comes to refugee hosting and the proximity of many poor countries to regions of conflict.
Davis sees first Brexit talks positive

Brexit Secretary David Davis has said he is entering negotiations on the UK's exit from the EU in a "positive and constructive" frame of mind. As he began talks in Brussels, he said he was determined to build a "strong and special partnership" with the EU. Chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier said he wanted to agree key priorities and a timetable for discussions. Subjects for the negotiations include the status of expats, the UK's "divorce bill" and the Northern Ireland border. The UK is set to leave the EU by the end of March 2019 following last year's referendum vote. Day one of the negotiations, at the European Commission buildings in Brussels, will be followed by a joint press conference this evening by Mr Davis and the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier, a former French foreign minister and EU commissioner. The BBC's Europe editor Katya Adler said the opening session would focus on basic issues of procedure such as how often the two men and their teams will meet and in what order items will be discussed. Above all, she added, it would be a "trust-building exercise" after all the "mud-throwing" of recent months. Arriving in Brussels accompanied by a team of British officials, Mr Davis said there would be "challenges" ahead but he believed the two sides could reach an agreement on the terms of the UK's exit which "works in the best interests of all citizens". "We are starting this negotiation in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends for the future." Reflecting on the Finsbury Park attack in north London, he added: "In testing times like these, we are reminded of the values and resolve we share with our closest allies in Europe.

There is more that unites us than divides us." Mr Barnier said a "constructive" opening to negotiations was vital in setting the tone for what he hoped would be an "orderly" process. "We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit - first, for citizens but also for the beneficiaries of EU policies and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland," he said.

The BBC has been told by European Union sources that the talks will follow the EU's preferred pattern of exit negotiations first, with the future relations between the two sides - including the free trade deal the UK is seeking - at a later date. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's The World at One, newly-appointed Brexit Minister Steve Baker - who was a leading figure in the campaign to leave the EU - denied this was a sign of weakness on the UK's side. "What we need to do is make sufficient progress quickly so that we can get on to talk about that free trade deal which all sides have agreed we should have," he said.

Media captionFormer Labour cabinet minister Lord Mandelson on Brexit negotiation deals Five major UK business bodies have come together to call for continued access to the European single market until a final Brexit deal is made with the EU. In a letter to Business Secretary Greg Clark they urged the government to "put the economy first". The letter is from the British Chambers of Commerce, Confederation of British Industry, EEF, Federation of Small Businesses and Institute of Directors. On the eve of talks, Chancellor Philip Hammond issued a warning about the implications of the UK leaving the EU without a deal in place, telling the BBC's Andrew Marr Show that having no deal would be "a very, very bad outcome for Britain".

Environment Secretary Michael Gove said he believed a "good deal" could be struck but that Theresa May was right to insist that the UK would not sign up to anything which "harmed" the UK.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today that by leaving the EU, the UK could "revive" its fishing industry and provide "better protection" for farmers. Asked whether his claim during last year's referendum that Brexit would reduce food prices was deliverable, he replied "yes, I do".

He suggested there was "no tension" between economic and social imperatives when it came to immigration, saying Brexit would give the UK "democratic control of our borders" and the freedom to decide numbers "in accordance with economic and other needs". Former Marks and Spencer chairman Lord Rose, who chaired the Stronger In campaign last year, said he was reassured that economic considerations were "top of the pile" but ministers needed to be realistic with the public. "Let's communicate with people who voted Out and people who voted Remain what the art of the possible... we all know we can't have our cake and eat it... negotiations mean you are not always going to get what you want."

Speaking on the same programme, JD Wetherspoon founder Tim Martin - one of the leading pro-Leave business voices - said negotiators had to be open to possible compromises but also prepared to walk away and to default to World Trade Organisation rules if necessary. "I don't think many people feel that staying in the single market and customs union and being subject to EU laws is Brexit. I think Brexit is parliamentary sovereignty and an assertion of democracy. Outside that, I think there is a quite a lot of scope."


Banani rape July 9 fixed for hearing on chargsheet

Court Correspondent :

The Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal-2 on Monday took cognizance of the charge-sheet against five persons in the case filed over rape of two private university students at a Banani hotel.

Judge Md Shafiul Azam of the court accepted the charge-sheet and fixed July 9 for hearing in the case.

Earlier on June 7, Ismat Ara Ame, Inspector of Women Support and Investigation Centre of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, submitted the charge-sheet to the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's Court.

The five accused are Ahmed Shafat, son of the owner of Apan Jewellers, his friend Nayeem Ashraf, Sadman Sakif, Shafat's driver Billal Hossain and his bodyguard Rahmat Ali. All of them are behind the bar. Of the accused Shafat, Nayem, Sakif and Billal confessed to their involvement in the incident before different magistrate courts on different dates.

The two university girls were raped at the Raintree Dhaka hotel of Banani in the capital on March 28.

One of the rape victims filed a case with Banani Police Station on May 6 accusing the five persons.


Attacker killed as his van rams Muslim crowd near London Mosque

AFP :

A van ploughed into a crowd of Muslims near a London mosque early on Monday, leaving one person dead and injuring 10 others in the second terror attack this month in the British capital.

Prime Minister Theresa May condemned the "sickening" incident, saying Britain's determination to fight "terrorism, extremism and hatred... must be the same, whoever is responsible".

The 48-year-old driver of the van, a white man who police believe acted alone, was detained by people at the scene before being arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

The Finsbury Park Mosque in north London said the van "deliberately mowed down Muslim men and women leaving late evening prayers" at the mosque and the nearby Muslim Welfare House shortly after midnight.

Others linked the attack to an increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes, particularly since the London Bridge rampage on June 3 that left eight people dead, which was claimed by the Islamic State group.

"This was an attack on London and all Londoners and we should all stand together against extremists whatever their cause," said Neil Basu, senior counter-terrorism officer for the Metropolitan Police.

He added that it had "all the hallmarks" of a terrorist attack.

It unfolded as a man was receiving first aid from members of the public in an unrelated incident. The man later died, though it is not yet clear whether his death was linked to the attack, Basu said.

Ten people were hurt, all of them Muslims, with eight of them requiring hospital treatment. Two of them were in a very serious condition, police said.

A witness, Abdiqadir Warra, told AFP that the van "drove at people" and that some of the victims were carried for several metres along the road.

"He was shouting: 'All Muslims, I want to kill all Muslims'," another witness, Khalid Amin, told BBC television.

Basu praised locals for detaining the man, saying that their "restraint in the circumstances was commendable".

The use of a vehicle to mow down pedestrians drew horrifying parallels with the June 3 attack, when three men drove a van into pedestrians before embarking on a stabbing spree, and with another car and knife rampage in Westminster in March.

This time, however, the attacker appeared to have deliberately targed at Muslims.

"Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia and this is the most violent manifestation to date," said Harun Khan, head of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body.

After the London Bridge attack, the mayor's office reported a 40 percent increase in racist incidents in the city and a fivefold increase in the number of anti-Muslim incidents.

AFP / Tolga AKMEN Floral tributes were left at the site where a vehicle was driven into Muslims worshippers near the Finsbury Park mosque in north London, on June 19, 2017

Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, described it as "cowardly".

"Our community is in shock," he said, urging people attending prayers to remain vigilant.

This message was echoed by police, who said extra police had been deployed to reassure Muslim communities in London and security outside mosques would be reviewed.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said it was a "horrific terrorist attack" aimed at "innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan".

It was the third major incident to hit the capital in the past few weeks, after the London Bridge attack and last week's devastating fire in the Grenfell Tower block, in which 79 people are thought to have died.

"This is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people," May said in a statement outside Downing Street, after chairing an emergency government meeting on the attack.

"It is home to a multitude of communities that together make London one of the greatest cities on earth. Diverse, welcoming, vibrant, compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate."

The Finsbury Park Mosque was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has changed markedly in recent years under new management.

Its former imam, Abu Hamza, was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015.

Despite the change in leadership and the focus on bolstering inter-faith relations, the mosque reported that it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the terror attacks in Paris.

Some locals came onto the street in support of the mosque on Monday, holding up signs saying "We love our mixed community" and "Leave our Muslim neighbours alone".








ME crisis impacts Eid shopping this time

M M Jasim :

The volatile situation in the Middle East countries that led to the fall in income of the non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) has hit hard the Eid shopping this year, as the NRBs sent less money home, according to shoppers and shop owners.

The remittance inflow into the country has been on the decline since beginning of the outgoing fiscal year (2016-17).

In July-May period, the remittance flow witnessed a 14 per cent drop over the figure in the same period a year ago.

The remittance stood at $11.55 billion in the 11 months which was $13.46 billion in the same period in the previous fiscal.

Relatives of the NRBs in Bangladesh expressed their apathy over the situation saying they are forced to cut Eid budget as their earning members failed to send sufficient money for Eid shopping this year.

"My father has been working in Saudi Arabia since 2007. We bought new and expensive dresses ahead of Eid. But this year my father sent no money for buying any Eid dress. That's why we will celebrate our Eid without new dresses," said Ariful Islam from Bhola.

Hanif Mia, a Bangladeshi migrant in Riyadh, said though Saudi Arabia lifted a seven-year ban on recruiting more workers from Bangladesh, many of those going there were actually with no jobs.

"The wage of Bangladeshis also dropped. If someone's monthly wage was equivalent to Tk 30,000, it came down to Tk 20,000 to Tk 25,000 very recently," he told this correspondent by phone.Shah Alam, a Bangladeshi migrant in Qatar, said, "My salary was Tk 35,000 last year. But in April this year the salary has decreased by Tk 25,000. now it is very difficult to bear my family cost. As a result, I was unable to send money to my family members for Eid."

Nurul Absar, a shopkeeper in Feni, told this correspondent that most of the people depend on the income of the expatriates working in the Middle East countries. The Eid market is always good in Feni district. But in the recent times, due to the downward flow of remittance, the Eid market experiences a sluggish mood.

"I sell Tk at least 30-40 lakh in the month of Ramzan usually. But I sold Tk 25 lakh last year. And the situation also turned for the worst this time as the sales did not go beyond Tk 8-9 lakh till Monday," Absar said.

Al Amin, another shopkeeper in Bhola, said, "We have been passing lazy time as sales are very poor this year."

"Actually, the family members, whose earning members stay in the Middle East, buy many products from my showroom. In the recent times, many people returned from the Middle East countries due to job crisis. As a result, business goes slow even during the Eid season," he said.

Migrant experts also admitted that the Middle East crisis has an impact on the Bangladesh economy.

Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (BAIRA) Secretary General Ali Haider Chowdhury said although the traditional markets in the Middle East had cut labour recruitment from Bangladesh, a large number of workers are being hired from India, Nepal and Sri Lanka to meet their demand.

'It is very unfortunate that we (government and BAIRA) are failing to send our workers to those countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Malaysia, in large numbers,' he said.

About remittance, he said that Bangladeshi workers were earning low wages abroad due to global recession.


MPs blast Muhith `It`s an anti-poll budget`

Lawmakers of ruling Awami League on Monday sharply criticized Finance Minister AMA Muhith in the national parliament for widening VAT net with ever increasing rate and imposing additional excise duty on general depositors' bank balance in current year's proposed budget.

Taking part in the discussion, senior lawmaker and AL Presidium Member Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim advised Muthith not to show arrogance anymore and talk less. Besides, another AL lawmaker and party's Joint General Secretary Mohammad Hanif termed it an "anti-election budget".

Interestingly, the Finance Minister has been facing huge criticism in the parliament even from the treasury bench members, particularly on VAT and excise duty, from the very beginning after he placed the budget of 2017-18 on the first day of current fiscal.

Not only that Finance Minister is also facing discontent from the general people for his some controversial decisions which will undoubtedly increase the living cost of limited income group people.

"When HallMark scandal was surfaced, you (Muhith) said that Tk4000crore was nothingeven not a significant amount. But now Tk one lakh is a big amount for you. You are the Finance Minister and your duty is to place budget in the parliament. Three-fifty parliament members will finalize which policy to be adopted for the welfare of people," Sheikh Selim said.

On the other hand, Mohammad Hanif said: "I can't understand taking whose advice the Finance Minister has prepared an anti-election budget, instead of placing an election-friendly one. Why he imposed excise duty on bank accounts? Whom interest he is serving here?"

Coming down heavily on Muhith, he further said, "I saw in the newspaper that Tk1000 crore has given to Basic Bank to overcome its capital deficit. I like to ask, whom money you are now giving to Basic Bank? Why you are giving money to the bank? The nation wants to know the reason. When they are swallowing money from the bank through corruption whereas, I'm paying money to save them. We are not interested to give them money."

Echoing the same, ruling party lawmaker and State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid Bipu urged the Finance Minister not to impose 15% VAT on housing sector.

Condemning Finance Minister's budget policy, Jatiya Samajtantrick Dal lawmaker Moinuddin Khan Badal said that main weakness of the budget being fail in determining the priority.

"Major problems of the Dhaka and Chittagong cities are water stagnancy. Until the problem is solved the foreign investors will not show interest to invest their money in this country", Khan said.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken initiatives to reduce VAT rate and excise duty.


For FDI policy support alone is not enough

A RECENTLY held dialogue organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AMCHAM) revealed that the country is not getting foreign direct investments (FDIs) at an expected level in spite of the government's numerous initiatives to give easy access to such investment opportunities. Whether or not these 'initiatives' are business friendly is a matter of serious debate.



The stark reality, however, the government agencies do not have a friendly and cooperative relationship with the foreign investors. Also it has been reported many times before - that the government agencies harass the foreigners with unnecessary bureaucratic red tapes, those who represent their countries in Bangladesh. The government should seriously consider these age-old reported accusations.



Take for instance the sudden exit of the American Multinational Energy Corporation Chevron. They had left at a watershed moment when Bangladesh could have got its assistance for exploring the hydro-carbon minerals store beneath the Bay of Bengal. Also it couldn't have left if our government's rules for withdrawing investment by the foreign companies were not made so easy and effortless.



On one hand we mark, evident flaws in policy making with regard to foreign investments, while on the other the government is doing practically little for wooing direct foreign investments. Creation of many Export Processing Zones are not the only solution in this regard - one needs to be policy-wise much astute so to formulate win-win FDI policies. That said - we should not make our policies too rigid or too flexible and strike a balance between the two.



Another example - Among all tax rates, the corporate tax rate is the highest in Bangladesh, being as high as 42.50 percent for banks, whereas the rate in our next-door neighbour India is 30 percent and the government has pledged to reduce it further to 25 percent in the next three years. Coupled with the high tax rate another problem which is deterring the FDI flow in Bangladesh is the propensity to bring repeated changes to regulatory policies. Surprisingly, the policies are sometimes changed in between 9-10 months of their formation, which makes the foreign investors sceptic and discouraged as well. Furthermore, the global country perception problem is another one. Many foreign firms still do not consider our economy as an industrial economy -- rather they think of the country as an agriculture-based economy, even though the country's dependency on agriculture has declined significantly by now. Our Diplomatic Missions abroad are in need to run the extra mile for changing this wrong perception while portray Bangladesh as an emerging industrial economy.



However, against the backdrop of all the above prevailing predicaments, we expect the government and its policy makers to be more realistic and pro-active for drawing and implementing effective FDI policies. Currently, the country has a mere $2 billion in FDI but given the country's GDP consistent growth and industrialisation it should have been tripled by now.



Last but not least, even though the Cabinet has reportedly approved the One-Stop Service Act concerning FDIs and it would hopefully be enacted in the next Parliament Session - but it should be formulated by including all the above stated shortcomings in it. Moreover, the Service Act should include pre-conditions for stronger foreign and local collaborations among the stakeholders to overcome all business related problems. Policies should be mutually beneficial and pragmatic otherwise, they are mere papers unable to serve any purpose.
DAMASCUS -- China has been keeping in touch with concerned parties in Syria in order to achieve a political settlement to the country's long-standing conflict through peace negotiations, a Chinese envoy said here on Saturday.

China has kept in touch with all concerned parties in Syria, aiming to restore peace and stability through peace talks, said Xie Xiaoyan, special envoy of the Chinese government on the Syrian issue, at a news briefing in the Chinese embassy in Damascus.

"We are in touch with the Syrian government, the opposition, the regional countries, and other powers that are either directly, or indirectly, involved in the Syrian issue, and this is our advantage in mediation," he said.

With regard to the political reconciliation process, Xie stressed China's commitment to promoting peace talks and implementing the achievements in Syria.

China hopes that involved parties in Syria will achieve reconciliation and eventually form a national reconciliation government, he said.

Meanwhile, the envoy pointed out that China has been providing humanitarian assistance within its capacity.

China has provided Syria and some other countries in the region with around 680 million yuan (100 million U.S. dollars) of humanitarian aid, including cash, medical equipment, medicine, and food to help alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people, he said.

Xie stressed that terrorism is the common enemy of the whole world, and Syrian factions, regional countries and the international community should be united in counter-terrorism efforts without employing double standards.

Speaking of the deal on de-escalation zones, which went into force in Syria last month and largely helped curb violence in some areas, the envoy said the involved parties had reached a consensus on the establishment of de-escalation zones in the last round of peace talks held in Astana, which was an important step towards resolving Syrian crisis.

Xie voiced hope that the concerned parties would nail details of the agreement as soon as possible to bring it into effect.

There is no quick solution to the Syrian issue, Xie noted, stressing that all parties should understand each other and make joint efforts to maintain the momentum of the peace talks.

"China has patience and confidence to advance settlement of the Syrian issue on the right track through concrete work, so that the crisis could gradually ease before it is finally resolved," he said.

During his visit to Damascus on Saturday, Xie exchanged views with Syrian officials on bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of common concern.
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Organizers of the Pope recall effort collected signatures Sunday at a public park in central Lafayette. Facebook

You have a city marshal who is sitting in office who has been charged with seven felonies, who is enforcing but not following the law; he is stealing taxpayer money and to me that is a no-brainer, says Aimee Boyd Robinson, one of the organizers of a bipartisan effort to recall Lafayette City Marshal Brian Pope, the most mugshotted elected official in Lafayette history who awaits trial on multiple felony charges and has already spent a week on house arrest and shelled out hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees, fines and penalties  all of which he paid for with public funds from his office  in his long-running public records dispute with The Independent.

What began in mid-May as a Facebook page that spread to other social media platforms, Recall BRIAN POPE" became a state-sanctioned recall effort last week with the acceptance of paperwork by the Louisiana secretary of state.

The group will need to average about 150 signatures per day for the six-month term of the effort  a tall but not impossible order. Robinson says that in addition to sending canvassers into neighborhoods, the committee is seeking office space in a central location where the public can stop by to sign the petition. The group also plans to collect signatures at public events like ArtWalk.

Recall leaders Steven Wilkerson and Aimee Boyd Robinson Photo by Robin May

We are going to be planning several public events where people will be able to get their signatures on record, she tells The Independent. Were hoping to have some office space secured so people can come by any time to do that.

One third of registered voters within the city limits of Lafayette must sign the petition, about 27,500, by mid-December to force a recall election, which would likely be held next spring. Pope may well be a convicted felon by then  hes set for trial on the seven felony counts in September  but he would likely appeal any felony conviction and could conceivably run out the clock on his term in office before being forced out by a state law preventing convicted felons from holding public office. A successful recall would ensure he vacates the office in a timely manner.

Weve followed this saga throughout, but the last stories about him [personally] collecting fees was really the last straw for me, Robinson adds. Where it really resonated was, we talk about how our law enforcement often doesnt make a living wage  they cant support their families  and to think of Brian Popes wife driving a Land Rover, hes making over $200,000 a year, and he is a law enforcement officer while some of our law enforcement officers dont make enough to support their families and a good portion of that $200,000 hes making hes illegally obtaining.

I dont think I have to explain that. I dont think I have to go any further than that," Robinson continues. "You are enforcing the laws that you do not follow, and thats the bottom line.

Over the weekend, canvassers began going door-to-door. On Sunday, petitions were at the ready at Chargois Park awaiting registered voters in the city of Lafayette, who elected Pope to a six-year term in the fall of 2014  a term he began serving in January 2015 following the three-decade tenure of former City Marshal Nickey Picard.

Brian Pope Photo by Robin May

Popes reign as the most-embattled public official in Lafayette (his attorney was also indicted for perjury) began about 11 months later when The Independent filed a public records request seeking details about an October 2015 press conference Pope conducted at his office, flanked by deputy marshals, during which he accused then-sheriff candidate Mark Garber of having promoted illegal immigration for the personal benefit of his private law practice. Pope beat a bogus drum on illegal immigration in his remarks, claiming that Lafayette was flooded with undocumented migrants and accusing the sheriff's department of obstructing the work of federal immigration officers. Pope would later claim his "investigation" into this issue as a shield from The IND's records request.

In an ensuing court battle over the records, the presser turned out to be a ruse organized by the campaign of Garbers top opponent in the sheriff's race, Pope crony Chad Leger, the elected police chief of Scott, whom Garber ultimately beat handily in a November 2015 runoff. Popes tenure as city marshal began to unravel at about that time, notably in depositions that appear to show him lying under oath and in the courtroom of 15th Judicial District Judge Jules Edwards, who proved a capable and impatient arbiter of Popes arrogance and indifference to the rule of law. (The Advertiser has a handy distillation of Popes troubling tenure as city marshal at the bottom of this story.)

Pope's deposition testimony in the public records case revealed his immigration investigation to be baseless and couched largely on racial profiling. Records eventually obtained by The IND showed that Leger's campaign manager, Joe Castille, scripted the October press conference top-to-bottom. Pope had used his public office as a political mouthpiece for an ally and paid with public dollars to defend and cover up his crimes, a gross abuse of his power and office.

When we as citizens witness an attack on our community, it becomes our duty to hold accountable those who would cause us harm. It means standing up for whats right and now is the time to do that, says Steve Wilkerson, vice chairman of the recall. Never is this more true than when someone we entrust to safeguard our community becomes the one who takes advantage of it.

A former sheriffs deputy and UL Lafayette police officer, Wilkerson says in a statement issued to The Independent that his motivation for joining the bipartisan effort to force Pope from office is based on his former line of work:

Law enforcement officers are by and large a dedicated group of amazing people, performing selfless service in an often thankless job. They literally risk their lives every single day in service to our community, and I respect them a great deal. ...So when you have a head law enforcement officer, in an elevated position of power and trust, who abuses that position and trust, it erodes the publics confidence in law enforcement as a whole. That in turn makes it harder for all of those good officers to do their jobs. It makes their already dangerous job even more unsafe, which is why it is my belief that the informed resident cannot rightfully be both pro-Brian Pope as city marshal and pro-law enforcement at the same time.

Leslie Turk and Christiaan Mader contributed this story.
MURPHYSBORO  Ameren Illinois on Friday donated 50 window air conditioner units to the Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council to help local residents beat the heat this summer.

The Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council will distribute the air conditioners to families meeting Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) guidelines, as well as seniors and people with disabilities. The air conditioning units meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.

These window air conditioners will provide our clients with much needed relief from the hot summer temperatures, said Debbie Thies, Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council Energy Coordinator, in a news release. We appreciate that Ameren Illinois continues to step up each year to help us carry out our mission of providing assistance and support to local low income families and individuals.

The air conditioner donations were made possible through the Ameren Cares program, which connects Ameren Illinois with the communities it serves through volunteering and charitable giving.

The safety of our customers is paramount, said Ameren Illinois President Richard Mark in the release. We are proud to partner with Western Egyptian Economic Opportunity Council to assist residents in Jackson, Monroe, Perry and Randolph counties who may be vulnerable to the effects of extreme summer temperatures.

Ameren Illinois is donating a total of 450 window air conditioners to eight LIHEAP agencies across central and Southern Illinois this summer. The company has donated more than 2,100 air conditioners since the program began in 2013.

Local residents who wish to apply for a window air conditioner unit should contact Western Egyptian directly at 618-965-3458 or execdir@weeoc.org.
SPRINGFIELD  A $94 million online health insurance system has some Illinois state employees and agencies flummoxed and Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration scampering to rid the system of bugs, according to interviews and documents reviewed by The Associated Press.

State workers have complained of a gummed-up system that has rejected coverage without notice and inexplicably stopped payroll deductions. The head of the Teachers Retirement System, where 106,000 retirees count on the program for insurance, points out that neither the specifications nor the system accounted for Medicare coverage.

Georgia-based Morneau Shepell was the only company to respond to a quickly executed, November 2015 request from the Department of Central Management Services to design a web-based portal for managing health insurance options. The request was posted for just 26 days. Documents show CMS staff members were told to proceed without following guidelines for ensuring minority-owned business participation.

The state has paid the company $375,000 but owes $9.4 million for more than a year's work. CMS hasn't submitted a voucher for the entire fiscal year that ends June 30. Officials said that's because of the two-year stalemate over a state budget that's resulted in too little money to cover state bills. But from four accounts designated for covering Morneau Shepell costs, CMS has paid more than $29 million for other bills in the 2017 fiscal year.

A spokeswoman for Morneau Shepell did not respond to requests for comment.

The program replaced a paper-driven system administered by dozens of employees in CMS and across state government. None of those workers was laid off. The online framework frees them up to do "higher-level" health care work for which there was little time previously, said CMS benefits director Teresa Flesch. She maintains the state will save $500 million annually when the website is fully functional as a "marketplace" where employees and retirees can customize their benefits to bring "Illinois' health care costs to a reasonable level."

Richard Ingram, executive director of the Teachers Retirement System, said that could be a while. He said the program wasn't adequately tested before it went online.

"It was poorly scoped out in terms of what was required to do the work, particularly for the retirement systems," Ingram said. "It's been one pain after another trying to implement the plan."

Ingram said CMS has cooperated in working out the kinks, but he questioned the forethought. About 70,000 TRS retirees have Medicare coverage, yet Ingram said when he asked where Medicare options were on the website, developers asked, "Why would you need that?"

Tim Blair, director of the State Employees Retirement System, said few would question the need to abandon a paper process, but the problems indicate a rush.

"It just seems like it was done quickly," he said.

CMS posted the request for proposals on Nov. 4, 2015. It was open for 26 calendar days.

"Due to years of underfunding of the group health insurance program, there was an urgency to achieve cost savings so we could pay our bills more timely, and there was significant cost-savings associated with the plan design," Flesch said.

Despite a requirement that vendors submit plans to ensure 20 percent participation in the contract by minority- or women-owned establishments under the state's Business Enterprise Program, contract documents include a note that CMS "has been directed to move forward without the inclusion of a BEP goal."

CMS spokesman Richard Bossert would say only that "the decision was made by CMS at the time of procurement."

"Since Morneau Shepell was the only bidder, if BEP goals were not waived, the state would have received no bids at all," he said. But the waiver note was dated Nov. 3, the day before the procurement request was even made public.

State employees have run into problems with the portal, too. An employee of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, Dale Webb, said it's a good thing he monitors his paycheck, or it could have been months or more before he noticed his life insurance premium payroll deduction had stopped early this year. The missed money was taken out of a later check.

Aaron Runge, a correctional officer at Menard prison in Randolph County, visited the website in November to add the family's new baby as a dependent. He didn't submit a required birth certificate and wasn't notified that his application was incomplete. By the time he learned, Morneau Shepell said the baby's $2,000 in medical bills couldn't be covered retroactively. Runge got the situation rectified through a grievance handled by his union.

"With the old system, you didn't have to deal with a company out of Atlanta, Georgia. They could care less," Runge said. "You lose the personal touch and knowing that your situation is covered."
WASHINGTON -- The Republican gospel of cutting taxes and government services to the bone doesn't lead to economic growth; it leads to crisis and decline. Just ask the people of Kansas, who finally have seen the light.

If House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell don't heed the Kansas lesson, they deserve to have their majorities stripped away in next year's midterms. And they won't be able to claim they weren't warned.

The states are supposed to be laboratories for testing government policy. For five years, Kansas' Republican governor, Sam Brownback, conducted the nation's most radical exercise in trickle-down economics -- a "real live experiment," he called it. He and the GOP-controlled Legislature slashed the state's already-low tax rates, eliminated state income tax for most owner-operated businesses and sharply reduced vital government services. These measures were supposed to deliver "a shot of adrenaline into the heart of the Kansas economy," Brownback said.

It ended up being a shot of poison. Growth rates lagged behind those in neighboring states and the nation as a whole. Deficits mounted to unsustainable levels. Services withered. Brownback had set in motion a vicious cycle, not a virtuous one.

Earlier this month, finally, the Legislature -- still controlled by Republicans -- overrode Brownback's veto of legislation restoring taxation to sane levels. The nightmare experiment is coming to an end.

The return to sane taxation will go a long way toward erasing a billion-dollar deficit. More revenue-raising measures may be needed, however, since education funding under Brownback was reduced to levels that the state Supreme Court recently ruled unconstitutional. It is unclear whether a $488 million increase for the schools over the next two years -- which Brownback may still veto, or try to -- is enough to satisfy the court.

Republican leaders in Congress will probably try to ignore the Kansas fiasco or say Brownback's implementation was flawed. But that would be unfair. All Brownback did was apply what passes for mainstream Republican orthodoxy these days: Cut taxes, eliminate regulation, shrink government, then stand back and watch as economic growth soars.

It just didn't work.

It never works. Republicans cannot point to an instance in which this prescription has led to the promised Valhalla of skyrocketing growth. Before Kansas, they could at least argue that the program had only been attempted partially and piecemeal, never in full and unadulterated form. After Kansas, that excuse is gone.

Eliminating business income taxes for owner-operated companies was supposed to induce entrepreneurs to move to Kansas from other states. It didn't. It turned out that business owners take more than taxes into account when they decide where to locate. They want good health care and first-rate schools for themselves and their employees. They want modern, well-maintained infrastructure. In short, they want a healthy, functioning public sector.

It also turns out that business owners do not decide whether to expand capacity or add employees based solely on the tax rate they must pay. Much more important is whether there is enough demand to justify such growth. If there is not -- and the Kansas economy under Brownback was woefully sluggish -- then tax savings will not be put to productive use.

The Kansas Republicans who voted to abandon Brownback's dead-end policies have been described in news stories as "moderate," but many are actually quite conservative. They just decided to put reality before ideology.

President Donald Trump and the Republican-led Congress, however, threaten to run Brownback's experiment on a national scale, with predictably disastrous consequences. White House budget director Mick Mulvaney proposes amputational cuts to the social safety net and bureaus such as the State Department and the Environmental Protection Agency. And Trump's "tax reform" plan proposes, among other cuts, to slash the top tax rate for "pass-through" businesses -- basically, owner-operated firms such as the Trump Organization -- from 39.6 percent to 15 percent.

Claims that such action will lead to a surge in economic growth never had much credibility. Now, after the Kansas experiment, they have zero.

It's tempting to say fine, go for it, let the whole country see that the policy prescriptions championed by the Republican Party lead to nothing but a world of pain -- except for the wealthy, who get to pad their bank accounts. But this is no academic exercise. Real people will suffer needlessly.

The GOP trembles before tax-cut guru Grover Norquist, who wants to reduce government "to the size where I can drag it into the bathroom and drown it in the bathtub." But it is failed trickle-down ideology that deserves to be snuffed out. And not just in Kansas.
The Regional Medical Center stepped in to fill a void when Bamberg Countys hospital closed in 2012. Now RMC is about to make a major commitment to bring expanded medical service to the county.

RMC is proposing an $8.63 million, 20,500-square-foot emergency department for the counties of Bamberg and Barnwell, which has also seen its hospital close. Construction on the facility located between Bamberg and Denmark could begin this summer.

The new 24/7 ER will be funded by the State of South Carolina through a one-time, $3.6 million Transformation Fund Grant and additional funds resulting from the region's designation as a persistent poverty area. Other funding has been committed through the local community, according to RMC.

The development is good news as Bamberg County has been without an emergency room since its hospital closed. The freestanding emergency department is to include 24-hour emergency care including CT scan, X-ray, ultrasound diagnostic imaging and lab and observation services.

RMC began operating an urgent care facility in Bamberg County a year after the hospitals closure in a logical extension of the hospitals services to a neighboring county. But Bamberg County leaders have been determined to retain medical services beyond urgent care.

A month ago, County Administrator Joey Preston acknowledged the county was in talks with a health care provider about a 24-hour ER center.

Hopes were high, though other efforts at opening an ER, one through Hospital Corporation of America and the other in conjunction with Colleton Medical Center HCA South Atlantic Hospitals, were not successful.

RMC was concerned about acceptance when it expanded services into Bamberg. It found support and has decided it can do what others could not or would not.

Community support in Bamberg  and Barnwell counties -- will be of continuing importance with the new facility. Branching out to provide services carries risks for RMC in the face of so many health care question marks. The hospital that is owned by Orangeburg and Calhoun counties must make strategic decisions based on its fiscal health as well as the health care needs of those it serves.

Five years after Bamberg County Hospital closed its doors, new doors to health care are opening in what we hope will be a continuing and growing partnership between two counties that have every reason to work together in a regional way.
By Azernews





By Sara Israfilbayova

Legal issues that may arise in Free Trade Zone (FTZ), being created in Azerbaijan should be concentrated in Azerbaijan's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expert-economist Farhad Amirbayov told Trend.

Creation of an independent arbitration system on the territory of the FTZ can lead to undesirable problems within the framework of a unified national legal system, according to him.

"If we follow the path of fragmentation and create our own unique forms for each economic zone, this can lead to the destruction of a single legal space. Legal issues may arise not only between the residents of the FTZ, but also with the residents operating in the legal field of Azerbaijan. There may be a certain misunderstanding and conflicts, so I propose to concentrate the powers and legal issues in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which has an arbitration court and all the mechanics, allowing conflict-free pre-hearing discovery. I think if foreign corporations want to enter the Azerbaijani market, they should become members of the Chamber, Amirbayov said.

Earlier, the Arab company DP World (Dubai Port World - one of the world's largest port operators), providing consulting services for the establishment of FTZ in Azerbaijan, proposed the creation of an independent arbitration system in the FTZ that will be able to focus not only on the Azerbaijani law, but also on international law.

"Creation of the FTZ is another step towards an even greater globalization of the Azerbaijani economy and its transformation from a hydrocarbon resource supplier to something more significant. I think that the provision of logistics services and the movement of transit cargo should be complemented in parallel with the development of our own industry. As operators and agents of this zone, I see large holdings and corporations. In general, the establishment of the FTZ is a good tool for attracting large corporations," the expert stated.

President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on March 17, 2016, on measures to create a free trade zone type special economic area covering the territory of the Baku International Sea Trade Port in the Alat township of Bakus Garadagh District.

The free trade zone is expected to bring up to $1 billion just in the first few years. Special tax and customs policy, which will be pursued in the territory of the free trade zone will also stipulate further development and simplification of a number of procedures.

FTZ will be located within the grounds of the new port, covering an area of 100 hectares. Since the new port is being built at the major railway juncture connecting the North-South and the East-West railway lines in Azerbaijan, FTZ will also have rail access. Serving as a multimodal transit logistics hub, the new port and FTZ will become a major consolidation and distribution centre in Central Eurasia that provides a wide range of value added services.
By Azertac





"We consider Armenia's recent provocations on the frontline as a non-constructive position," the Azerbaijani President`s Assistant for Public and Political Affairs Ali Hasanov has told jounalists.





"Azerbaijan's stance on the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is obvious. And this stance is delivered to the international community and a number of other organizations dealing with the issue, including the UN Security Council, the OSCE, the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. Our country's position is that Azerbaijan's territorial integrity must be restored, refugees and internally displaced persons must return to their homelands, and the norms of international law concerning the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict must be followed," Ali Hasanov said.





"Of course, we understand the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries' and international organizations' different positions on this issue. But the key point is the issue of territorial integrity which is an inviolable principle of international law. President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly stated that Azerbaijan will make no concessions to anybody even an inch of its territory. However, we are ready to achieve a constructive peace as well," Ali Hasanov said.





The Presidential Assistant emphasized that the co-chairs' visits to Azerbaijan contribute to clarifying the situation, re-studying the sides' positions and achieving progress on the conflict resolution against a background of rapprochement of these positions. "We consider that majority of both bilateral meetings and the meetings involving the co-chairs, as well as the meetings of the heads of state and foreign ministers contribute to finding common positions, and sooner or later they will be found. Otherwise, the fact that the Azerbaijani army will liberate Nagorno-Karabakh and other lands which are under the Armenian occupation is inevitable."





Ali Hasanov noted that Armenia's aggressive policy has been continuous so far, without any breaks. They simply step back a bit at some points, trying to conceal their stance and mislead the international community. In general, we have never seen the Armenians' doing without provocation since 1990s. They have constantly resorted to provocations, and continue their deeds particularly at a time when the international negotiations have intensified and the efforts to eliminate the status quo increased on the international arena. They try to reinforce the confrontation on the frontline and hide their anti-Azerbaijani position on international arena. On the other hand, they try to cover up their population`s discontent with the Armenian authorities and the spineless regime across the country. Therefore, we consider these provocations as a non-constructive stance of the Armenian authority as the previous ones, he added.
By Azernews





By Kamila Aliyeva

Turkish exports of fruits and vegetables to Russia totaled 215,379 tons worth more than $123.7 million in January-May of the current year, Anadolu Agency reported citing the Association of Exporters of the Eastern Black Sea Region of Turkey (DK?B).

Trabzon is the leader in terms of exports to Russia among other 21 provinces of Turkey.

During this period, the export of fruits and vegetables from Trabzon to Russia amounted to $39 million, or 32 percent of the total exports of Turkish provinces to Russia.

In January-May, the export of fruits and vegetables from Trabzon to Russia in quantitative terms increased by 114 percent (in monetary terms - by 80 percent) compared to the same period last year.

"Following the results of five months of 2017, Trabzon is the leader of Turkey in the export of agricultural products to Russia," DK?B head Ahmed Hamdi Gundogan said.

The Russian-Turkish trade has been facing significant difficulties since late 2015 when Russia introduced a food embargo against Turkey in response to the downing of a Russian warplane over Syria. In October 2016, the Russian government approved the resolution allowing Turkey to supply mandarins, oranges, peaches and nectarines, apricots and plums to Russia.

The process to normalize bilateral ties peaked during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the Russian Black Sea resort city of Sochi on May 3.

Many other restrictions have been recently removed in accordance with agreements reached with Russia following the results of the talks between Turkish Prime minister Binali Yildirim and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev in Istanbul. The latest decree on lifting of some restrictions on Turkish food supplies was signed on June 2.

The normalization of ties between Turkey and Russia have given momentum to Turkish exports, recording a 30 percent increase in the first four months of 2017 and promising better commercial ties while imports from Russia grew by 15 percent in the same period.
By Azernews





By Kamila Aliyeva

Qatar's isolation by a number of Arab states in the region is directed against its sovereignty.

Ambassador of Qatar in the United States, Mashal bin Hamad al-Thani said in an interview with the Al-Jazeera TV channel.

Qatar's isolation by its powerful neighbors is not connected with accusations of "supporting terrorism," according to ambassador.

Al-Thani noted that there are specific states interested in isolating Qatar and one of these countries is the United Arab Emirates.

Meanwhile, Qatar says it will continue to supply gas to the UAE, despite the severance of relations and the blockade imposed on Doha.

"In all our contracts there is a provision on so-called force majeure ... The blockade in which we are now considered to be force majeure, and we can close the gas pipeline to the UAE, however, Qatar does not deal with contracts, but with ethics," said Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, executive director of the state oil and gas company Qatar Petroleum, in an interview with Al-Jazeera.

The closure of the gas pipeline would cause great damage to the people of the UAE, which Qatar considers to be brotherly.

"For Qatar, this is beyond the scope of the contract, and we decided that the gas will not overlap now," he said.

Several Arab countries including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt cut off diplomatic relations with Qatar, accusing the latter of supporting ISIS, Al-Qaeda and other terrorists and destabilizing the situation in the Middle East. They were later joined by Libya, Yemen, the Maldives, Mauritius and Mauritania, with Jordan and Djibouti announcing they would lower the level of diplomatic contacts with Qatar. Senegal and Chad recalled their ambassadors from Doha.

Doha denied allegations over its support to terrorism and extremism saying that the diplomatic rift was based on "baseless fabricated claims." Qatar expressed its readiness for a dialogue to solve the crisis and denied to take counter-action measures against its neighbors.
By Trend





Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the Islamic Republic's missile capability helps the international fight against terrorism.



Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense and advances common global fight to eradicate ISIS (ISIL aka Islamic State) terrorist group and extremist terror, Zarif wrote on his twitter account June 19.



The top Iranian diplomats statement comes after the IRGC targeted ISIS positions in Syrias Deir ez-?Zor on June 18 in response to the groups recent terror attacks in Tehran, which killed 18 people and injured 50 more.



All of the six mid-range ?ballistic missiles targeting the terrorist positions have hit the intended targets, according to the IRGC.



The missiles were launched from Irans western provinces of Kermanshah and Kordestan and passed through Iraqs territory before ?hitting the targets in Syria.?



The IRGC coordinated the attack with the Syrian government prior to launching missiles.
By Azernews





By Kamila Aliyeva

Russia has called on the United States to coordinate its actions with partners in resolving the situation in Syria.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced about this on June 19, when commenting on the U.S.' boosting of its presence in southern Syria.

He said that all actions in Syria need to be coordinated with legitimate Syrian authorities, "especially when it comes to the occupation of certain territories in Syria, including those that could prompt questions from the point of view of the true intentions of those who carry out such seizures [of territory]."

De-escalation zones are one of the possible options to jointly move forward. We call on everyone to avoid unilateral moves, respect Syrian sovereignty and join our common work which is agreed with the Syrian Arab Republic's government, the minister said.

Moscow calls on Washington to respect Syrian territorial integrity and the country's sovereignty according to the UNSC 2254 resolution and other documents, the Russian top diplomat said.

Lavrov reminded that this is exactly what Russia, Iran and Turkey do when they offer initiatives in the framework of the Astana talks.

The U.S.-led coalition against ISIS operates in Syria without the permission of Damascus. On June 18, the Syrian army said that the U.S.-led coalition had brought down its aircraft in southern Raqqa countryside when it was fulfilling its mission against Daesh.

Later, the coalition confirmed the information saying that it shot down the Syrian government forces' Su-22 aircraft as it had allegedly been bombing in an area where U.S.-backed rebel forces, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), were stationed, south of Tabqa in the Raqqa province. The US-led coalition called its attack on the Syrian army's jet "collective self-defense," adding that it contacted the Russian military to de-escalate the situation after the incident.

Lavrov also revealed the date of the next round of the Astana talks on Syria, which UN special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura intends to attend.

"The next meeting will be held in Astana on July 10, and Secretary-Generals special representative Staffan de Mistura will participate in it. The parties agreed to finalize the coordination of specific parameters of modalities for ensuring the regime that should exist in de-escalation zones and along their perimeter at this meeting, he said.

To date, four rounds of negotiations on the ongoing Syrian conflict were held in the Astana, on January 23-24, February 15-16, March 14-15 and May 3-4.

During the most recent round, the guarantor countries of a nationwide Syrian ceasefire regime  Russia, Iran, and Turkey  agreed to establish four safety zones across the country.

The civil war in Syria between government and opposition with various terrorist groups involved, including Daesh (also known as ISIS or ISIL), began back in March 2011.

Syrian President Bashar Assad managed to turn the tide of war in his favor after Russia started an air campaign in September 2015, while Iran is an uncompromising supporter of the Syrian leader.

According to a report by the Syrian Center for Policy Research, the conflict has claimed the lives of over 470,000 people, injured 1.9 million others, and displaced nearly half of the countrys pre-war population of about 23 million within or beyond its borders.
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

A new tactile project  a bronze layout of Icherisheher designed for blind or visually impaired people was presented in Baku.

The project's authors are Cyril Rabat from France and Azerbaijani Suleyman Veliyev, Trend Life reported.

Icherisheher, the pearl at the heart of Azerbaijans cultural heritage, has a history of thousands of years and is located in the historic centre of ancient Baku. This unique historic ensemble has been called the Acropolis of Baku, Old City or Inner City. There are hundreds of historical-architectural structures in an area no bigger than 22.5 hectares, surrounded by the fortress walls. Four of them are of international and twenty-eight are of national significance. In 2000, Icherisheher, together with Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshahs complex, were added to the World Cultural Heritage list and are being preserved by UNESCO as a historical-architectural reserve.

The newly-developed tactile map will allow visually impaired people to sense Baku`s most visited landmarks, including the Maiden Tower, and even narrow streets. The map is flexible to use.

The unique layout-map was created by German architect Egbert Broadcom, who used the 3D technology. All residential buildings and architectural monuments of the ancient part of Baku have been created with the use of high-tech 3D printing. Braille inscriptions are also present.

Cyril Rabat said that the work on the project lasted two years."I'm living and working in Baku for about 17 years. Im married to an Azerbaijani woman, I have two children and this project reflects my love and reverence for Azerbaijan, he said.

Baku has always been a city of multiculturalism and tolerant values, and Icherisheher is its vivid manifestation. This layout in bronze for the visually impaired is our gift to the city, which became native for me.

Suleyman Veliev, commenting on the project, said: "There is a stereotype that blind people are very limited in their capabilities. But in fact, they strive to live as you and I, however, do it in the dark. Every day for them is a real test of strength. This project aims at to "show" those people Icherisheher, its history and architecture, about which they heard, but not saw.

French Ambassador to Azerbaijan Aurelia Bouchez, in turn, stressed that this project is another evidence of strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and France in cultural and social spheres.

Head of the State Historical-Architectural Reserve Icherisheher Asker Askerov stressed that the government creates all the conditions for people with disabilities, and implements various programs and projects.

Today, there is an estimated 180 million people worldwide who are visually disabled. Of these, between 40 and 45 million persons are blind and, by definition, cannot walk about unaided.

There are about 42, 000 visually impaired people in Azerbaijan and 30% of them are children, according to the statistcs.




The number of disclosed private equity transactions in the Mena region reached 244 in 2016, recording the highest since 2008, said a new report from the Mena Private Equity Association, a non-profit organisation.



However, the value of disclosed investments decreased by 25 per cent to $1.1 billion; a reflection of the more challenging investment environment and notable transactions included Careem, the UAE headquartered regional provider of transportation solutions, raised $350 million in 2016, added the eleventh Mena Private Equity & Venture Capital Annual Report.



The report was launched in partnership with Deloitte and Thomson Reuters and was sponsored by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), TVM Capital Healthcare Partners and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius.



The report notes that 2016 marked divergence between trends in private equity and venture capital than has been seen in previous years. The overall number of deals increased, as venture capital investment levels continued to grow. The decline in the number of higher value private equity transactions led to a decline in the total value of investments made.



Key highlights:



 Fundraising in the region remained challenging due to economic headwinds and geopolitical factors. Seven funds were raised in 2016. The number of closes declined to nine and funds raised were at a low of $582 million.



 The largest Mena focused fund raised was the Gulf Capitals $250 million Gulf Credit Opportunities Fund II, a mid-market focused debt fund. Other major funds raised included the $110 million NBK Mezzanine Fund, also focused on providing credit solutions for investee companies.



 2016 recorded ten disclosed transactions in the Mena region with an investment value greater than $25 million, compared to 14 identified in 2015.



 The UAE attracted 62 per cent of Mena investment activity by value in 2016, a substantial increase from 2015. This is due to stability and availability of large and quality assets. Uncertain market conditions in the region attracted fund managers towards investing more in the UAE.



 UAE was also the largest market in 2016 In terms of volume of deals (accounting 34 per cent) followed by Lebanon.



 While investments in the oil and gas industry continue to decline, transport was the largest sector in terms of investment value in 2016 (Careem$350million).Global trends in ecommerce, developments in FinTech and other disruptive technologies including the move towards a more cashless economy, are combining to drive entrepreneurship.



 Investment sentiment continues to favour consumer driven sectors such as retail, healthcare and food and beverage. Education related businesses are also popular.



 Divestment volumes decreased to 14 in 2016 from 21 in 2015. Total divestment value stood at $462 million. Lengthy holding periods and the slowdown in recent years have depressed internal rate of return (IRR) on portfolio investments.



 2016 saw the continued development of venture capital as an asset class in the Mena region. There were a number of significant transactions in the year for venture capital backed businesses. An example is Careem (raised $350million in 2016).



 The UAE led venture capital activity, followed by Lebanon, Egypt and Saudi Arabia.



Salmaan Jaffery, chief business development officer at DIFC Authority, said: As the regional economy continues to develop and grow, private equity has an important role to play in helping good companies become great ones.



This years report has shown a particular increase in appetite for investments in technology-related sectors, such as IT, FinTech, and E-commerce. This is a space the Centre will continue to develop via enhancements to our funds platforms and regulations, as well as initiatives such as FinTech Hive at DIFC, the regions first FinTech accelerator. The DIFC, as a global financial centre, is committed to supporting private equity, whether in traditional sectors or more early stage growth segments focusing on innovation, he added.



The promotion of the venture capital industry has become increasingly prominent, with numbers of incubators and accelerators increasing, alongside a developing legislative framework. Significantly, this in part reflects a government led emphasis, notably in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The aim is to reduce reliance on the oil and gas sector and foster the development of entrepreneurialism and SMEs.



Dr Helmut Schuehsler, CEO of specialist Private Equity firm TVM Capital Healthcare Partners, and member of the Mena Private Equity Associations Steering Committee, said: There seems to be a true grass roots entrepreneurial movement that has not only benefitted from governmental support in some countries, but also attract increasing amounts of venture capital.



I firmly believe that this development will make the investment sector more active and vibrant, provides better diversification for investors and ultimately will create exciting new companies in the region, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the largest Islamic bank in the UAE, has launched an instant funds transfer solution for those wiring money to India.



The new service DIB Express Transfer guarantees that funds can be wired to any ICICI bank account in India within 60 seconds and any other bank in India within one hour.



Developed with the aim of streamlining cross-border remittances, the service is set to allow DIB customers to instantly send money to other bank accounts in India.



The service is seamless and available at key customer touch points including DIB branch kiosks and through online and mobile banking portals. Other highlights include a zero processing fee until October and attractive exchange rates. Additionally, once the money is accepted by the receiving ICICI bank, customers can also then transfer funds to any other bank in India within one hour.



Sanjay Malhotra, chief of Consumer Banking at DIB said: Many of our customers are non resident Indians (NRIs), so DIB Express Transfer will simplify the process of transferring money back home. Having a service as fast and efficient as DIB Express Transfer means customers can manage their remittances for planned or emergency transfers and know their money will be received immediately.



One of the attractive features of this product is that even if a customers money ultimately needs to go to another bank in India, this can be done within as little as one hour, so the service really is giving customers an extensive reach across the country. We are confident that DIB Express Transfer will give people more comfort and security, knowing they have a service they can rely on.



At DIB, we are committed to making our services more convenient and reliable through a variety of touch points to continually meet customer needs in both the UAE and their home country. Providing innovative solutions through strategic partnerships, such as the one with ICICI Bank, is ultimately key to achieving this goal, Malhotra added.



India was the number one beneficiary of financial flows in 2016, as remittances saw significant spikes during special occasions and after the Indian government took out of circulation some old rupee notes.



According to the World Bank, the UAE comes in third as one of the largest outward remittance markets in the world, with cash remittances estimated to have reached Dh77 billion ($21 billion) in 2016. The top beneficiaries of money transfers were India, Pakistan, Philippines and Bangladesh, with a 12 per cent increase from 2015. These numbers are forecasted to grow further, in the lead up to Dubais Expo 2020.  TradeArabia News Service
Servcorp, a leading provider of serviced offices and business package solutions in the Middle East, will launch five co-working office spaces across the Middle East in 2017 to meet the growing demand for flexible work environments.



Located in iconic business towers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, Lebanon, Qatar and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Servcorps co-working spaces provide businesses of all sizes - from start-ups to multinationals - the infrastructure, support and facilities of a fully serviced office without the cost of a full-time office space, a statement said.



Servcorps month-by-month Co-working Package provides access to a host of cutting-edge benefits that ensure businesses are at their most professional and productive, it added.



These include seamless IT solutions generally found only in the worlds largest blue-chip corporations; first-class private offices and meeting rooms, and the most personal and professional administrative support to ensure any contact with your company is world-class.



Companies also enjoy access to the Servcorp Community, an online corporate hub that has been developed to encourage networking and knowledge sharing with over 35,000 imagineers globally. One of the largest private business communities in the world, the Servcorp Community also provides clients with high-level content through curated articles, deep-knowledge forums and access to worldwide events.



With an increased focus on companies operational efficiencies, as well as the cost of setting up an office for newcomers to the region, Servcorps Co-working Package offers value for money and unrivalled convenience. More businesses than ever are looking for a flexible way of working that will reduce costs, increase agility and offer more options for their teams  and were delighted to provide that solution, said Laudy Lahdo, general manager, Servcorp Middle East.



At Servcorp, we believe that by bridging traditional elements such as providing the most sought-after office addresses in the world with unrivalled IT capabilities, our clients are able to excel in a flexible work environment that suits the needs of their business. We add value by providing the best of everything, from the office space to the support team and technology.



As a concept that has continued to gain traction since its true inception during the global economic downturn in 2009, co-working spaces are increasingly being recognised for their value  even by government. This has most recently been demonstrated by the launch of the Dubai governments Dubai Future Accelerators  an incubator programme that brings together the best companies, entrepreneurs and government entities who understand global challenges and invest in breakthrough technologies.



The programme is a prime example of how the country continues to become a forward-thinking, smart hub for doing business. While across the region co-working regulation remains relatively conservative, offering alternative solutions that cater to rapidly growing economies such as the UAE, will help strengthen the business environment, attract more foreign direct investment, foster entrepreneurship and diversify sources of growth, Lahdo added.  TradeArabia News Service
UAE-based Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Dubai to strengthen links of cooperation with the educational institution.



The agreement aims to develop and qualify national human resources capable of working in space science technology sector, said a statement from MBRSC.



The MoU was signed by Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, director general of MBRSC and Dr Eesa Bastaki, the president of University of Dubai, in the presence of a number of executive officials from the centre and the university, it said.



As per the agreement, both sides will co-ordinate to design and prepare educational, training or qualification programmes in the scientific specialties related to the space sciences technologies and satellites.



In addition to that, the centre and university will cooperate in providing students practical training opportunities, scholarships under MBRSCs Entaliq scholarship programme and job opportunities for outstanding students.



Al Shaibani said: The signing of the agreement coincides with our centre's mission and strategy in building qualified national cadres in space field to support developing a unique UAE space sector.



Also, such partnerships will direct these institutions towards new educational programmes and disciplines that will serve both UAE national strategies and UAE National Space Program, he added.



We believe that MBRSC as a scientific and research centre specialised in space and advanced technology and higher education institutions have a complementary role to build capabilities and develop human resources and research activities in space science, Al Shaibani concluded.



Bastaki said: Space is the future and we seek to establish a generation of pioneers, engineers and intellectuals aiming for the top.



Our role as an educational institution is to provide knowledge, the necessary tools and equipment, and stimulate scientific research, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Dubai-based global marine terminal operator DP World has partnered with Legoland Dubai, to present the theme parks boating school and sea port attractions as the exclusive port terminal sponsor.



Legoland Dubai, part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, the regions largest integrated theme park destination, features over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions and 15,000 Lego models made from over 60 million Lego bricks.



It is designed to provide a full days interactive theme park experience for families with children aged 2-12, said a statement from the company.



Boating school offers children the opportunity to captain their own boats and sea port is a themed playground island where they can climb and roam structures to experience the workings of a port. Parents can accompany their children on the boat rides or enjoy the adult seating area with a view of the grounds, it stated.



The five-year agreement aligns with DP Worlds Global Education Programme, which aims to raise awareness about the maritime sector, trade and logistics, and related career options.



With business units in 14 countries already delivering the programme to local schools, the aim is to reach out to 34,000 young people globally by 2020, it added.



According to a recent YouGov study commissioned by DP World, 60 per cent of young people dont understand what logistics means and yet trade is the bedrock of economies with 90 per cent of all goods transported by sea.



Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman and CEO, DP World Group, said: This is a great opportunity for us to reach out to future leaders. Through education and teaching children about trade, we encourage involvement in our industry for the long term.



Our industry is changing rapidly and the application of new technologies means there are a variety of new types of jobs available, he said.



Today, driverless cars, drones and automated quay cranes driven by joysticks in a control room are used in our operations and skills to tackle subjects such as big data, the internet of things and robotics will also bring about change. These are exciting times for young and adventurous minds to begin understanding our sector and thinking of their future careers, he added.



Siegfried Boerst, general manager, Legoland Dubai, said: We are excited to align with DP World for our sea port and boating school attractions at Legoland Dubai.



Playful learning and education are at the heart of everything we do at our parks, and partnering with a world-class entity such as DP World who believe in enriching the lives and experiences of future generations is a natural complement to our ongoing initiatives, he said.



Education forms part of DP Worlds Our World, Our Future global sustainability programme. The aim is to bring sustainability into every aspect of the companys work, by investing in the long term in their businesses around the world, driving best practice, investing in innovation and measuring progress, he added.-TradeArabia News Service


A US Navy fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane after the Syrian jet dropped bombs near Syrian Democratic Force (SDF) fighters on Sunday, reported CNN citing the US military.



The shootdown came a little more than two hours after forces allied with the Syrian regime of Bashar Al Assad attacked the north-central Syria town of Ja'Din, which was controlled by the SDF.



A number of SDF forces, who are backed by the US-led coalition, were wounded in the attack, the statement from the Combined Joint Task Force said.



The attack drove the SDF from Ja'Din, which is west of Raqqa, the coalition statement said.



Later, a Syrian government Su-22 attacked the SDF forces with bombs, stated he CNN report.



"In accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of coalition-partnered forces, (the Syrian jet) was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet," said the coalition in its statement.



The shootdown was the first of a Syrian aircraft by the US military since it began fighting ISIS in the country in 2014.

The Syrian Armed Forces, meanwhile, said one of its warplanes was attacked in the Raqqa countryside, "while it was carrying out a combatant mission against ISIS terrorist organization." The pilot is missing, the Syrian statement said.



The Syrian military called the action a "flagrant aggression" that affirmed the United States' "real stance in support of terrorism," according to Syrian Armed Forces.



The statement from the US-led coalition said it is operating in Syria to fight ISIS, which has taken over areas of Syria during the country's civil war, and not the Syrian regime or its partners. But the coalition said it would defend itself and its allies.



"The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated," the coalition statement said.
Dubai-based Al Tamimi & Company, a leading law firm in the Middle East, has announced the promotion of six new partners representing three offices in Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE, thus taking its total number of regional partners to 60.



Divya Abrol Gambhir, Ahmad Saleh, Jeremy Scott and Willem Steenkamp (Dubai, UAE), Foutoun Hajjar (Bahrain) and Omar Handoush (Kuwait) will be promoted effective July 1, said a statement from the firm.



Gambhir joined the firm in 2005 and is part of the banking and finance team. She has extensive experience in areas such as financial regulatory, private banking, structured finance, banking M&A, financial technology and general corporate banking and advisory.



She is recognised as a financial services specialist in the UAE and in the financial free zones and pursuant to her appointment as head of financial regulation and securities in 2015, she has enhanced this practise area for the benefit of the firms clients.



Hajjar joined Al Tamimi in 2014 when the firm launched its Bahrain office. She is an English-qualified solicitor and barrister with over 25 years of professional experience specialising in corporate law. Since launching in Bahrain, the office has grown to a team of 15, including 11 fee-earners, under Foutouns leadership. The promotion demonstrates the firms long-term commitment to the market in Bahrain.



Handoush joined the firm in its Kuwait office in 2014. As a banking and finance lawyer, he is very well-regarded for his technical skills and ability to manage complex transactions. He has played a key role in several cross-border deals which have been recognised by leading organisations including IFN and IFLR.



Saleh leads the firms patents practice within the IP team. This practice was launched in 2013 and has grown rapidly since then. His skill set is quite unique, combining vast legal and engineering experience, enabling him to find a common language with academics and inventors who represent a large part of his client base.



Scott is a leading real estate lawyer and is recognised as a specialist in his field. Since joining the firm in 2008, he has focused on legal issues related to mixed-use developments, jointly-owned property structuring and complex commercial transactions. He has also taken on the responsibility to further develop the firms Saudi Arabia real estate practice.



Steenkamp is a lawyer in the firms commercial advisory team and has been integral to driving growth in the retail and franchising sectors. Willem joined the firm in 2008 and is seen as a technically strong lawyer who provides clear, commercially sound advice in the areas of franchising ventures, commercial agencies, commercial contracts and regulatory advice in both consumer protection and competition.



Husam Hourani, managing partner, Al Tamimi, said: It gives me great pleasure to announce the promotion of six outstanding individuals who are seen as quality lawyers providing exceptional advice and service to our clients.



We are committed to holding our position as the leading firm in the Middle East and a key strategy is to ensure we continue to focus on enhancing our cross-border capabilities. These appointments reinforce our commitment to this, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
Nissan has appointed Hussein M Dajani as general manager, Digital Marketing, for Africa, the Middle East and India.



He will lead Nissans digital and social media strategy in the region, which is becoming ever more significant for Nissans global business. Working with teams in local markets, his role will be to ensure that the company delivers an innovative experience online for customers, matching the innovation in Nissans cars. He will also take the lead on digital and content for Nissans regional Communications function, working on strategies to support the companys business goals.



Dajani, who has a BS in Business Administration from the American University in Beirut said: I am delighted to be joining Nissan and I am looking forward to further strengthening Nissans digital footprint in Africa, the Middle East and India.



This region is dynamic and includes some the fastest-growing, most promising economies in the world. Nissan is committed to offering our customers the best cars and customer service whether they are a first-time car-owner buying a Datsun redi-GO in India, or the latest generation of their family to purchase a Nissan Patrol in the Middle East.



Nissan already has a strong and growing presence with more than 15,000 employees across 87 countries in Africa, the Middle East and India. Four major regional hubs control Marketing and Sales, and related functions, in the United Arab Emirates, India, Egypt and South Africa  as well as satellite offices in other key markets including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. There are factories building Nissan cars in India, Egypt, South Africa and Nigeria with a combined annual production capacity of more than half a million units.



Dajani has more than 15 years of experience in marketing and communications. Previously he was head of Online Communities & Communications for Virgin Mobile in Qatar and area digital manager for the MEA region for Red Bull.



We are very pleased Hussein has joined our team as he brings to Nissan a wealth of knowledge in the field of digital marketing which has been gained working for some of the most respected brands in the world, said Peter Clissold, general manager of Marketing for Nissans Africa, Middle East and India region. His experience will be invaluable in a region where the digital landscape is fast-moving, diverse and among the most sophisticated in the world.  TradeArabia News Service
First Motors, the exclusive distributor of Genesis vehicles in Bahrain, recently hosted a training programme on the Genesis Concierge Service for a number of its employees at its showroom in Sitra.



Hosted by Hyundai Middle East and North Africa (Mena), the training programme was conducted by the general manager of Aspire in Europe, Middle East and North Africa and India, Duncan Hardie.



Staff members from the sales, marketing, customer relation management (CRM) and service departments participated in the comprehensive workshop, which took place over the course of a single day, and were each provided with a certificate for successfully completing the seminar, said a statement from the company.



The training elaborated on the concierge service that is being offered on all the cars in the line-up of the recently recreated luxury vehicle segment of Hyundai Motors, Genesis Motors, it added.



The service also provides owners with the best manufacturer warranty in the industry for five years unlimited mileage, in addition to the sensational lifetime warranty that is offered on the entire range of passenger vehicles by First Motors, free premium roadside assistance for five years and map care free, state-of-the-art navigation maps with frequent, periodic software updates.



All Genesis owners will also be given the privilege of gaining accessibility to the comprehensive features of the concierge service from anywhere in the Middle East complementary for two years, which provides counselling and reservation service to boost travelling, dining, shopping and cultural experience wherever they go, it stated.



On the training, Ahsan Chishty, general manager of First Motors, said: We believe that the most significant assets of a company are its employees and the true strength of any organisation lies in how its own resources are invested in.



Therefore, for us to be hosting a renowned and knowledgeable individual in Hardie and for our workforce to be given the opportunity to learn the intricacies of the companys concierge service exemplifies our drive to grow from within, which in turn highlights our strive to constantly evolve and excel in the provision of our services and products for our customers, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
Abu Dhabi-based Quality Marine Services (QMS), in conjunction with Zakher Marine International (ZMI), has taken delivery of the first offshore barge built in a shipyard in China, under the supervision of ZMI staff, a report said.



"We have designed and built the most sophisticated and advanced barge, as part of three new barges constructed in China at a cost of $350 million. These barges are considered the most advanced in the market today, in terms of size and technology, specifically in the Mena region, Ali El Ali, executive director of ZMI, was quoted as saying in a report by WAM, the Emirates official news agency.



"The barges are built to carry out a large scope of work, ranging from well services and drilling support to construction, floatel and maintenance work. They also have the highest standards of safety and have the ability to work in various weather conditions and geographical locations.



"The first of our large fleet of barges arrived in Abu Dhabi last week, with the knowledge that these are built to operate in stringent weather, both in the Middle East and Europe alike. They are further considered to be one of the best (barges available in the market) in terms of design and operation requirements, compared to others around the world," Ali said.



In a separate statement, Musadaq Al Yacoub, general manager of ZMI, said that the barge, took three years to build, and it includes the most modern design technology and finishing.



"This one is part of the three barges constructed by the company, with the expectation that the second barge will be sent to the North Sea, adjacent to the Netherlands and the UKs coasts, to work in the construction of wind turbine fields, as well as in the working of offshore oil and gas fields," he noted.



Al Yacoub further disclosed that the strategic direction for ZMI involves the building of a further five barges in China. The delivery of these is expected by the end of 2018. "These are built and designed in a new and innovative way suitable for the Middle Easts weather and operational requirements," he added.



Captain Ron McGuire, head of the Barges Department at ZMI, said that the barge received in Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest and the most significant in the Middle East, and it can also operate in Europe and the North Sea. It has a detailed design, when compared to other barges in the region. It can also work and operate in different oil fields, which helps in the reduction of cost for its owners, he added.
Yanbu Technical Institute (YTI) has joined hands with GE Oil & Gas to provide training on a wide range of digital industrial solutions to strengthen the skills of Saudi technical talent.



The partnership with GE Oil & Gas, which will leverage the global expertise of the GE Inspection Academy, will prepare Saudi technical students for the next era in digital industrial applications that are increasingly deployed in the energy sector.



Ed J Boufarah, vice president of GE Oil & Gas Digital Solutions  Middle East Africa, Turkey & Pakistan, said: The training and development of Saudi professionals and students has been a top priority for GE Oil & Gas, which complements our long-term presence in the Kingdom of over 80 years.



Today, the digital industrial era has transformed the energy industry, supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to promote economic and industrial diversification. Through our partnership with Yanbu Technical Institute, we are nurturing the new generation of technical professionals who are fully equipped to meet the needs of the industry, he added.



Dr Othman Zakarya Barnawi, managing director of Yanbu Technical Institute, said: For nearly three decades, we have been building the skills and talents of young Saudis, equipping them for high quality jobs in industry.



With the tremendous potential of digital solutions in industry, we believe that it is imperative for us to train our students in these newest advances in technology. GE is the pioneer in digital industrial solutions, and our partnership will help us to build a strong talent pool of technical professionals who can contribute to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This delivers on our mission of providing training that shapes the future of Saudi youth.



As part of the agreement, GE Oil & Gas will work hand in hand with YTI to develop a state-of-the-art curriculum of technical courses and instructor capabilities in the field of non-destructive testing. Moreover, they will also address local market expertise shortage, such as in asset condition monitoring, industrial instrumentation and control systems. GE Digital Solutions is a market leader in both condition monitoring and non-destructive testing.



Through the partnership, YTI will be delivering the right skillsets and expertise of local talents, armed with cutting-edge technology and methodology, to meet the industrial requirements of running the operation with safety, reliability and productivity.  TradeArabia News Service
The Dodsal Group, a Dubai-based business conglomerate currently operating in countries across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena), East Africa and India, has been awarded a $1.1-billion engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) by Sonatrach, Algeria's state energy producer, to execute a separation and compression centre (CSC) at the periphery area of South HGA-Hassi Messaoud.



The work, which includes detailed engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of the plant, will begin shortly and is scheduled to be completed in 2020.



Once ready, the plant will be producing at a capacity of 66,000 barrels per day.



On the contract win, Dodsal Group chairman and president Dr Rajen A Kilachand said: "This order further strengthens our long-term relationship with Sonatrach and also reinforces our presence in Algeria, which is a strategic market for us."



"We are proud to continue our association with Sonatrach and are looking forward to working closely with them to successfully deliver this project," he added.



Algeria is Africas biggest natural-gas producer and a member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. The country boosted its gas exports in 2016 and plans to increase gas output to 141.3 billion cu m (bcm) this year and 143.9 bcm in 2018, from 132.2 bcm in 2016. Sonatrachs exports generate more than half of the governments budget revenue.



Dodsal has been executing EPC projects for over five decades in the energy, industrial and infrastructure sectors across the Middle East, Europe, North and East Africa, the Indian Subcontinent and South-East Asia.



The UAE-based conglomerate has executed other projects in Algeria, such as the construction of the Skikda LNG Project in 2009, and has since been awarded its third major EPC contract by Sonatrach.-TradeArabia News Service
In a strategic move, UAE-based Goldilocks Investment Company said it has acquired a five per cent stake in the Abu Dhabi listed-natural energy company, Dana Gas.



Goldilocks fund is an Abu Dhabi Global Markets domiciled open-ended equity fund that invests primarily in listed equities.

The acquisition of Dana Gas shares totalling 350 million is aimed at generating above-average returns while minimizing the risk on capital, said a statement from the company.



Goldilocks, managed by ADCM Altus Investment Management Limited, a group company of Abu Dhabi Financial Group, often takes a constructive active role to unlock value.-TradeArabia News Service
The Travel Tech Show at WTM London 2017, taking place in November, will focus on payments solution with a dedicated lounge, reflecting not only the importance of payments across the global travel ecosystem but also a desire from last year's attendees for more insight into this sector.



Payment solutions are relevant across all verticals and in all markets. As the distribution landscape in travel continues to evolve, payment solutions providers are forming a vital role in ensuring that flow of monies between the various stakeholders in the travel process is efficient, reliable and secure.



Any consumer-facing travel business needs to have a payments solution in place which makes it easy for travellers to buy, especially with the shift to online and mobile transactions.



However, there is also a growing market for specific business-to-business solutions which facilitate the way that suppliers pay each other, how intermediaries pay suppliers, or how suppliers and intermediaries pay commission to agents or affiliates.



More than 2,000 attendees at last year's WTM London expressed an interest in payment solutions, with accommodation providers the most responsive, followed by retail and online agents with a large proportion also coming from tour operators.



The interest is coming from senior executives, with payments capturing the attention of more than 300 CEO and managing director level attendees.



As an indication of the scale of the payments business, Priceline Group, the world's largest travel company by market capitalization, handled 173 million room night bookings in the first three months of 2017 across its brands. This has resonance in the context of how it handles and accounts for tens of millions of consumer payments but also in terms of how it - or indeed any third party retailers - redirect the payment back to the property owner.



As consumers are transacting more online, patterns are emerging which highlight significant difference between markets. Worldpay, a FTSE-100 listed payment services business, has carried out research into how and why travellers in six key markets pay for their vacations.



It found that that while credit and debit cards are still prevalent , so-called alternative payment methods - such as Paypal - are gaining traction in mature markets as well as emerging ones.



One important finding of the Worldpay study is the need for international brands to allow Chinese tourists to pay using Chinese methods such as Alipay. With 100 million outbound travellers, China is the world's largest outbound market and will continue to grow, reinforcing the need for the industry to consider they will take payments from this segment.



The complexity and scale of the consumer landscape is matched in the business-to-business world. ENett, part of Travelport, specialises in B2B payments for the travel industry and estimates this segment of the market is worth $780 billion a year.



ENett has pioneered virtual account numbers or VANS, which are automatically-generated 16-digit MasterCard account number, unique to each booking or transaction which makes it easier to track the payment by connecting to back-office systems.



WTM London senior director Simon Press said: "Effective payment mechanisms are needed for consumers to buy their trip and for suppliers and intermediaries to pay each other.



The Payments Solutions lounge at The Travel Tech Show at WTM will give the payments industry the profile it deserves at the leading global event for the travel industry."

WTM London will take place from November 6 to 8 at the ExCel London. - TradeArabia News Service


Etihad Airways will be suspending flights to San Francisco, US, from October, it has emerged.



The decision will come into effect from October 29 after falling passenger demand curbed the route's profitability, said a report in Reuters.



Passengers booked to travel after then will be rebooked with other carriers, the report said citing an an emailed statement by the airline.



The Abu Dhabi carrier flies to five other US. destinations including New York and Washington DC.


Abu-Dhabi based investment and development company Mubadala is hoping to finalize a deal to buy the remaining 50 per cent of the Viceroy Hotel Group "within a matter a days".



The UAE firm is in talks with the US Department of Justice (DoJ) for the 50 per cent stake owned by Jho Low, a financier linked by prosecutors to Malaysia's 1MDB corruption scandal, said a report in Financial Times.



The Abu Dhabi fund already owns 50 per cent of Viceroy, while the other half is controlled by Low and affiliates that purchased rights to and interests in the hotel group with funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), the newspaper said.



US prosecutors filed complaints on Thursday to recover $540 million in assets allegedly purchased with funds stolen from 1MDB, it said.



US authorities are seeking to seize a total of about $1.7 billion in assets that it says were bought with misappropriated money from the 1MDB.



The proceeds of the sale, if agreed by Low, would be placed into an escrow account frozen by the DoJ, the report said.
Michael J. Ruffatto, the mastermind behind the Two Elk energy park fraud, will face sentencing Aug. 25 after gaining approval last week for a third extension in Pittsburgh federal court.

The 71-year-old businessman pleaded guilty in October to defrauding the federal government. He created false invoices to justify millions of dollars for carbon research, engineering work and feasibility studies. The 20-odd years of development of the Two Elk energy complex in Campbell County amounted to little more than a handful of concrete pads on the property, though millions in federal grant dollars and state tax exemptions were dedicated to the ambitious cause: using waste coal and studying carbon dioxide storage.

Funds were transferred to a subsidiary company and used to support Ruffattos lifestyle, including expensive jewelry, foreign travel and a home in Colorado, court documents show.

In the continuance filing to Pittsburgh Chief U.S. District Judge Joy Flowers Conti, Ruffattos lawyers said they were working with the government to resolve the civil investigation related to the conduct underlying [Ruffattos] guilty plea.

The continuance was unopposed by U.S Attorney Mary Houghton.

Lawyers on both sides of the case did not respond to requests for comment.

In a sentencing memorandum filed earlier this month, the prosecution proposed prison time, a $75,000 fine and probation for the western lawyer they say was driven by greed. Ruffattos lawyers have asked for probation, given Ruffattos age and the fact that he has repaid much of the federal money. Of the $5.7 million the feds say was inappropriately spent, Ruffatto has paid back $3.7 million.

In other court documents, obtained by Wyofile, which produced an investigative series on Two Elk, Ruffattos wife penned an 11-page handwritten letter pleading for leniency.
Its no secret that Wyoming has recently faced a downturn in energy prices and that workers have lost jobs. The state is filled with people who have a specific skill set, such as facing potential hazards, working at great heights and handling electrical equipment. But when oil and gas production slows or coal mines cut back on production, the opportunity to utilize those skills goes down too.

Now, an international wind manufacturing company is hoping to convince the roughnecks, mechanics and coal miners of Wyoming to join its industry, betting on the growth of wind generation in the country and a number of wind projects slated to go up in the state.

Goldwind Americas, in partnership with wind developer Viridis Eolia, will offer free training to Wyomings workforce starting with three introductory sessions in mid-July in Rawlins, Casper and Gillette. The company also plans an upcoming tour of its wind farm near Shamut, Montana.

We believe that folks that come from certain industries, fossil fuels, oil and gas, coal, they have skills that are transferrable to the wind industry, said David Halligan, CEO of Goldwind Americas. Thats why were offering the training and specifically why we are offering it in Wyoming.

They are training people who could maintain a wind farm, technicians who respond to mechanical problems, install replacement parts and run the day-to-day operations at a large wind site.

Growth ahead

Wind technician is the fastest growing occupation in the U.S.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the wind energy technician field is projected to grow by 108 percent over the next 10 years.

Though wind is an intermittent source for electricity that only provides about 5 percent of the nations electricity generation, its rapid growth in recent years has challenged those who doubt its ability to contribute to the massive grid system that supplies power to the country. Wyoming has long been an energy provider and sends the majority of its coal and gas out of state to be used in power plants.

For Halligan, wind in Wyoming could play a similar role.

Wyoming, of course, does not have a lot of people, so not a huge demand for electricity in Wyoming, he said. But given the right infrastructure in terms of electricity transmission down into California, which is a huge market, Wyoming could be the generation source.

With the growth in the industry, the state would be wise to tap into that growth, whether for manufacturing or technician jobs, he said.

Goldwind has farms and operations on six continents, but the current interest is in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, where there has been an exponential increase, Halligan said.

In the first quarter of this year, 2,000 megawatts of wind power were added to the industry, a 385 percent increase since early 2016, according to the American Wind Energy Associations quarterly report. For comparison, a 2 MW wind turbine can generate enough power to provide electricity for 350 homes for a year. Thats assuming that the turbine is only working at a fraction of its capacity because the wind doesnt blow all day.

Wanting wind

Developers are eager to carve out a position in the growing industry.

Viridis Eolia is one of a handful of companies with large scale wind farms that could increase the states potential wind generation by 9,000 MW in the next five years. That would make Wyoming second only to Texas in wind capacity. The state is currently ranked 15th.

Viridis has partnered with Goldwind Americas to set up and maintain its proposed 1,780 MW farm in the Shirley Basin.

Ideally, Goldwind would have a team of workers based in Wyoming to service Viridis proposed wind farm, Halligan said.

Thats why we are looking for the wind energy technicians, who would be the long-term workers supplying the labor to maintain the equipment, he said.

Though wind farms are not associated with a bevy of long-term jobs like a coal mine provides, the Goldwin CEO expects more than a hundred people would need to be employed to maintain the Viridis wind farm.

Not only do you need people out in the field that are troubleshooting if a part needs to get replaced, if they need to do routine maintenance, but then you have a whole logistics center, he said. You need to keep parts on hand. You need administrative people, safety people, trainers. Its just a complete infrastructure of full-time, well-paid jobs with benefits.

If things go as planned, many of those workers will come from Wyoming, thanks to the training seminars, he said.

We are trying to be proactive, Halligan said. To get out there and create a win-win situation, where we can provide people who may be going through challenging times from an employment standpoint retraining. Hopefully as our projects come to fruition we could identify talented folks that could come to work for us.
It appeared Interim City Manager Liz Becher was done with the budget.

The budget session in late May was extended to allow time for city staff to prepare a document showing how Casper could avoid dipping into reserves to balance its budget for the fiscal year starting in July.

That move was requested by Councilman Dallas Laird with support from fellow council members Chris Walsh and Jesse Morgan.

After seeing the cuts shown by Becher and her staff, Council agreed to approve the budget largely as written on the condition that the numbers would be reviewed once Casper had a permanent city manager.

But on Tuesday, Walsh once again requested that Becher draft additional budgets showing different levels of cuts.

Im still uncomfortable with the budget, Walsh said. Id still like to see a 10 percent, 15 percent reduction.

Morgan and Laird joined Walshs call for more options, but Becher said it did not make sense to spend significant staff time presenting new budget options when new city manager Carter Napier will arrive by the end of the month.

She said staff had reviewed Napiers budget process in Gillette and was eager to work with him to reform Caspers system.

In the next three days for us to do what youre suggesting? I dont want to, Becher said. I want to do this with Carter.

But Laird said he wanted to see cuts now.

I dont want to vote yes for this budget because I think theres stuff that can be cut out of it, he said.

Councilman Shawn Johnson, who has a reputation for being fiscally conservative, said he was comfortable waiting for Napier to arrive.

Im OK with passing it, letting Carter take a look at, Johnson said. We can always make amendments later.

In the end, only Walsh and Laird voted to revisit the budget. Morgan said he was persuaded by Bechers comments.

Liz had a pretty compelling argument, Walsh acknowledged.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  Police say a body has been found along the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico not far from where a Colorado pastor parked his vehicle before heading out to search for a supposed hidden cache of gold and jewels.

Authorities have yet to identify the body, but the case of missing pastor Paris Wallace of Grand Junction has reignited calls by some for the treasure hunt to come to an end.

In 2016, another Colorado man died in the New Mexico backcountry while searching for a bounty that an antiquities dealer said he stashed somewhere in the Rocky Mountains. It has inspired thousands to search in vain across remote corners of New Mexico, Yellowstone National Park and elsewhere.

In the latest case, crews began looking for Wallace last week after his family reported him missing.
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PEDROGAO GRANDE, Portugal  A raging forest fire in central Portugal killed at least 62 people as they desperately tried to flee, charring cars and trucks as it swept over roads. The disaster  the worst tragedy Portugal has experienced in decades  shook the nation, with the president declaring that the countrys pain knows no end.

Almost 24 hours after the deaths Saturday night, fires were still churning across the forested hillsides of central Portugal. Police and firefighters were searching charred areas of the forest and isolated homes, looking for more bodies.

It is a time of pain but also ... a time to carry on the fight against the flames, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa told the nation in a televised address Sunday evening after the government declared three days of national mourning.

A huge wall of thick smoke and bright red flames towered over the tops of trees in the forested Pedrogao Grande area, 95 miles northeast of Lisbon where a lightning strike was believed to have sparked the blaze Saturday. Investigators found a tree that was hit during a dry thunderstorm, the head of the national judicial police said.

Dry thunderstorms are frequent when falling water evaporates before reaching the ground because of high temperatures. Portugal is prone to forest fires in the dry summer months and temperatures as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit hit the area in recent days.

At least four other significant wildfires were burning Sunday elsewhere in Portugal but the one in Pedrogao Grande was responsible for all the deaths.

The dimensions of this fire have caused a human tragedy beyond any in our memory, said Prime Minister Antonio Costa told reporters as he arrived at the scene Sunday. Something extraordinary has taken place and we have to wait for experts to properly determine its causes.

Interior Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa said the death toll had risen to 62 by the end of Sunday. She said the countrys judicial police was expecting to complete the identification of the bodies soon in order to release them as early as possible.

Interior Ministry official Jorge Gomes said firefighting crews were having difficulties battling the fire, which was very intense in at least two of its four fronts. He said authorities were worried about strong winds that could help spread the blaze further.

More than 350 soldiers on Sunday joined the 700 firefighters who have been struggling to put out the blaze, schools in the area were closed until further notice and outdoor fires were banned.

The forest fire deaths were the biggest in memory in Portugal, which saw 25 Portuguese soldiers die fighting wildfires in 1966. Last August, an outbreak of fires across Portugal killed four people, including three on the island of Madeira.
Authorities in Nevada say the body of a woman reported missing last week has been recovered from Lake Mohave in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The name of the 39-year-old woman wasnt immediately released Monday. Authorities say the woman reportedly was not wearing a personal flotation device, and the death is being investigated as a drowning. National Park Service rangers say a witness called 911 on Saturday to report that a woman went missing. Rangers began search and rescue efforts until midnight Saturday, and resumed Sunday with assistance from Mohave County dive personnel. Authorities say the victims body was recovered Sunday afternoon.
SAN TAN VALLEY  A new law passed by the Arizona Legislature paves the way for San Tan Valley to form a city government  an effort that will have to go before voters in an upcoming election.

Incorporation proponents will wait until the new law takes effect Aug. 9 to start a campaign, the San Tan Valley Sentinel reported.

If there is enough support, proponents said the question could be on the ballot as early as November 2018.

Local businesswoman and longtime advocate Tisha Castillo said a committee will be hosting town halls for voters, and also have a website, social media and fliers available with information.

"There's going to be a lot of education, but a lot of that information still has to be gathered because it's a brand-new world than it used to be when we last tried," Castillo said.

A previous effort to incorporate San Tan Valley in 2010 was unsuccessful.

Opponents have said creating a new city would bring tax burdens.

Supporters who attended a June 1 community meeting held by Pinal County District 2 Supervisor Mike Goodman countered that without incorporation, state shared revenue dollars go to other cities and towns because San Tan Valley does not have the standing necessary to claim its share.

Castillo believes changing circumstances in San Tan Valley may shift people's stance on the move.

"We have a lot of threats right now with neighboring municipalities wanting to annex as much as they can for their own communities," Castillo said. "Now we have the chance to either create our own future or end up in somebody else's."
American Airlines has canceled 20 regional flights scheduled for Tuesday at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport because of excessive heat that could affect aircraft performance.

That could affect some Tucsonans planning to fly from Phoenix, but there have been no heat-related flight cancellations at Tucson International Airport and none are expected.

Over the weekend, American sent notices to passengers booked on Phoenix flights from Monday through Wednesday, warning them it may have to ground flights in Phoenix during a heat wave that could send the temperature soaring to 120 degrees.

American is allowing Phoenix passengers flying during the peak heat period between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to change flights without a fee. The forecast calls for a high of 118 on Monday and 120 on Tuesday in Phoenix.

The affected Tuesday flights are American Eagle routes operated by Mesa Airlines and SkyWest Airlines, which fly Bombardier regional CJR airliners that are most affected by excessive heat.

American had not canceled any Monday flights to or from Sky Harbor as of noon, an American spokeswoman confirmed, adding that Tuesdays canceled flights include both departures and arrivals.

The Tucson airport has no record of heat-related flight cancellations and has heard nothing regarding any possible cancellations of Tucson flights during the current heat wave, TIA spokesman David Hatfield said, noting that individual airlines make those decisions.

Extreme heat creates changes in the air density that make it harder for airplanes to take off. Airlines respond by imposing weight restrictions, such as carrying less cargo and fuel, in some cases, they will ground flights during peak heat.

According to American, the maximum outside operating temperature is 118 degrees for the Bombardier CJRs, while its 127 degrees for Airbus airliners and 126 degrees for Boeing aircraft.

The excessive-heat window potentially affects 15 departures and 17 arrivals on American Eagle daily at Sky Harbor, American said.

American Eagle averages about 90 departures and 90 arrivals daily at Sky Harbor, the airline said.
We've collected a few front pages from newspapers.com to give you a look at some June 19 papers in history. With a subscription to newspapers.com you can search the Arizona Daily Star and many other newspapers using keywords or dates, and download articles or pages.
A Tucson woman who ran a string of illicit massage parlors serving clients that included police officers and government workers, was sentenced Monday to two years of probation.

Clarissa Lopez pleaded guilty in May to felony charges of keeping a house of prostitution and receiving the earnings of a prostitute.

In February 2016, she was charged with eight felonies, following a years-long Tucson Police Department investigation into her business, By Spanish.

During a job interview with an undercover officer, Lopez told the woman about the operation and how employees were required to pay a $40 cut for each sexual service performed, court records show.

In January 2015, more than three years after TPD began its investigation into the suspected brothels, police raided multiple locations across town that they had found to be affiliated with By Spanish, including a pet store and hair salon, according to Arizona Daily Star archives.

Police seized hundreds of pieces of evidence from the 10 locations, including two vehicles, a house, cash and items ranging from a leather paddle to womens panties, court documents show.

Contact lists from cell phones seized in the raid turned up phone numbers for multiple TPD employees, Air Force personnel, firefighters, Border Patrol agents and other local government employees.

As a result of the investigation, eight TPD employees lost their jobs after they were found to have been customers of or have knowledge of By Spanish, but none of the men identified as customers were ever charged in connection with the case.

Lopez also was ordered by Pima County Superior County Judge Howard Fell to serve 600 hours of community service.

Pima County prosecutor Dawn Aspacher asked that Lopez receive prison time, saying she acquired several properties to use for the business, including a house and two apartments, and employed more than 12 women, several of which went on to start their own, similar businesses.

Not one man ... was ever charged in this case, said Lopezs attorney, Cornelia Honchar, as she argued for a sentence of one year probation. And no woman engaged in this business against her will. This enabled them to go to school, care for their children and what they wanted in a safe environment.

Honchar equated the workings of By Spanish to a meet-up at a bar between two consenting adults, saying that prostitution is the worlds oldest profession.

Because Lopez has been a law-abiding person for the last 2 years, obeying all laws and not engaging in drug use or drinking alcohol, her life has essentially been like being on probation, Honchar said.

I do regret what happened and Ive learned my lesson the hard way, Lopez said, addressing Fell before he made his decision.

Outside of the courtroom, Honchar said it was a reasonable sentence.

If we believe prostitution is something that should be eradicated, men should be subject to prosecution as a felony, same as women, she said.

While human trafficking and child sex slavery are serious problems that law enforcement should pursue, neither of those were factors in this case, Honchar said.

In the gallery during sentencing was Lopezs boyfriend, Ulises Ruiz, who has a January trial scheduled for his alleged involvement as a co-operator of By Spanish. Ruiz is facing six felonies, including illegal control of an enterprise, keeping a house of prostitution, money laundering and receiving the earnings of a prostitute.
An out-of-town prosecutor has taken over the sex-crimes case against the University of Arizonas former pharmacy dean.

The Pima County Attorneys Office, which has handled the case against Jesse Lyle Bootman since charges were filed 18 months ago, recently transferred it to a prosecutor in Maricopa County after Bootmans lawyer claimed the local law-enforcement establishment is biased in favor of the victim.

Its the latest twist in a legal saga thats been inching through the courts since late 2015 with no end in sight.

Bootman, 66, has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual assault, sexual abuse, aggravated assault, kidnapping and drugging the alleged victim with a prescription sleep aid.

Police said the alleged victim sustained a broken nose and other injuries in what authorities described as a brutal attack at Bootmans rented home in the Catalina Foothills.

Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall, in a May 10 court filing, said she believes her office has acted properly in handling the case.

However, to avoid even the slightest appearance of impropriety, PCAO has determined that it will send the case to the Maricopa County Attorneys Office for prosecution, the court filing said.

Defense lawyer Joshua Hamilton of Tucson had asked the court to remove the local prosecutor due to conflict of interest and appearance of impropriety.

Hamilton, in an April court filing, maintained the alleged victim has a special relationship with local police and prosecutors because she was a key witness in a high-profile criminal case many years ago.

She worked hand-in-glove with detectives while the case was being investigated and while it was prosecuted, said the defense complaint.

The claim the county attorneys office is biased is one of more than 20 pretrial motions the defense has filed, some of which question the credibility of the complainant and the actions of police and prosecutors.

For example, the defense also recently asked the court to ban the alleged victim from testifying against Bootman, claiming she misled police about the extent of her previous relationship with the defendant. The court has yet to rule on that request.

So far, four different judges have overseen the case, two of whom were replaced at the request of Bootmans attorneys.

Bootman was dean of the UA College of Pharmacy for nearly 30 years before the university removed him from the post and banned him from campus in the wake of criminal charges.

He remains on paid administrative leave while his case is before the court, earning a $253,000-a-year professors salary.

If convicted, he stands to lose both his UA job and the pharmacists license he has held for 40 years.
On a day that might normally have been marked by families running around Reid Park celebrating Fathers Day, many Tucsonans instead chose to stay cool indoors.

Very few park ramadas were full and the parking lots were nearly vacant by early afternoon Sunday.

With the National Weather Service issuing an excessive-heat warning until Thursday, June 22, Tucson temperatures are expected to climb Monday toward the 114-degree mark and increase to 115 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday.

Sundays official high was 109 degrees, according to the weather service.

It is expected to be sunny and hot Monday, with winds blowing 5 mph to 9 mph and cooling off to 81 degrees at night.

It should be more of the same on Tuesday, with light winds along with the possibility of partly cloudy skies and a low of 82 degrees.

But not everyone is avoiding the heat in the western United States, according to The Associated Press.

Some hardy souls are flocking to Death Valley, California, to experience some real heat in our countrys hottest, driest and lowest national park.

Death Valley was expecting to reach its first 120-degree day of the year on Sunday, creeping toward 124 by Tuesday as temperatures continue climbing throughout the West.

Business heats up at the park as temperatures rise.

Tourists from a host of European nations flood into the region to experience temperatures that are unheard of in their countries.

Much closer to home, officials warn that hiking and exercising after 10 a.m. is not recommended.

Also heed the usual precautions, such as drinking plenty of water; wearing light, loose clothing and a wide-brimmed hat; and being aware of common signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Some symptoms include thirst; aches; muscle cramping; lightheadedness; nausea and vomiting; excessive perspiration; and cool, moist, pale or red skin.
A newly married couple pose for wedding photos in Xizhou, Yunnan. HOU LIQIANG/CHINA DAILY

Wang Shifeng's house is a typical traditional residence of the Bai ethnic group, constructed from wood and earth in the 1940s and with three chambers and a screen wall forming a central courtyard.

Once, beautiful carvings adorned many parts of the wooden structures, while the screen wall carried poems and paintings of flowers. Now, the once-splendid house in Xizhou, a village in Dali city, Yunnan province, is more like a patchwork of different colors and styles, and grass grows on the roof.

Wang Shifeng's family of four is one of more than 10 families living in the compound, which has about 20 rooms. Each family owns one or two rooms. Some families don't have a kitchen, while others lack washrooms so they have to use the public toilets a short walk away, he said.

In 2012, the central government launched a campaign to protect traditional villages, and Xizhou is now listed as a National Traditional Village.

"Each family repairs the parts they own when something goes wrong, but the work has never been done with any unified materials or colors. Some paint their sections red, others paint them yellow," the 40 year old said.

These "patched" compounds represent more than 100 traditional residences in Xizhou, some of which date back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Most of the houses, which were once owned by landlords, were confiscated by the government and redistributed to the poor around the time of the foundation of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

Property rights are an extremely complicated issue. As older generations pass away, different parts of some houses are inherited by a growing number of descendants. A compound can sometimes be owned by more than 20 people.

People in traditional costumes have their photos taken in Xizhou.HOU LIQIANG/CHINA DAILY

These factors make it difficult to protect the houses, according to Zhao Qiuhua, deputy mayor of Xizhou, who added that the local government launched a pilot project last year to rent and transform some houses not included on cultural heritage lists into guesthouses as a means of protecting them.

However, it took about a year for the government to persuade the 17 families involved, some of which have settled overseas, to rent their sections of the houses, he said.

There are heavy restrictions on the use of buildings listed as cultural heritage sites for business purposes, and any changes have to be approved by the cultural heritage authorities.

Zhoucheng, another village in Xizhou, is also on the National Traditional Village list. It faces a similar situation. Some of the houses have been inherited by several generations of descendants, according to Duan Shusheng, deputy director of the Zhoucheng village committee.

The local Bai people say the properties have been passed down by their ancestors and they should keep them, even though some families have moved away. That makes it difficult for the village authorities to rent or buy the houses to develop tourism and to protect them. If left untended, the houses are more prone to dereliction, he added.
ABC will screen a new six part series Keeping Australia Safe, looking at security measures in Australia.

The doco from the producers of Keeping Australia Alive, was filmed over a 48-hour period. It will challenge perceptions versus reality about where threats exist, the competing priorities of national and personal security, and the cost both financially and to our civil liberties.

ITV Studios Head of Content Ben Ulm, said, We deployed 200 cameras around Australia and overseas over a single two-day period, he said. To gain the trust of 30 institutions that are traditionally very guarded about public exposure was like taking a year to crawl up 30 mountains, then tumbling down the other side in 48 hours. Fortunately, we landed on our feet.

With numerous polls revealing that Australians seem to be living in fear, and the government telling us that acts of terrorism in this country are now inevitable, this series will look at the costs of keeping Australia safe, Ulm continued. And well hopefully begin a conversation about what sort of Australia we want our children to live in. At ITV, we are enormously proud to be producing such an important and timely series.

ABCs Head of Factual Steve Bibb said: Keeping Australia Safe highlights how ABC Factual is reshaping its output  turning documentary storytelling on its head for surprising results. This incredibly ambitious project will get the nation talking and ask big questions about what it takes to keep us safe day to day. This commission extends a valuable ABC brand which started with the highly-acclaimed, and Logie nominated, Keeping Australia Alive.

It will air later this year.

Keeping Australia Safe will provide immersive and wide-ranging insight into our complex security landscape, revealing what is being done to keep all Australians safe from harm at any one point in time. With unprecedented access to Federal, State and community based services, the series will be intercut with stories from those responsible for keeping Australians safe on a daily basis. They range from specialist police units in Australias cities to community based domestic crisis centres, from defence force operations in Afghanistan to Magistrates Courts and remote policing in The Outback.

In 2016 Keeping Australia Alive demonstrated audiences appetite for observational documentaries that provide an in-depth view of how our country functions, said Liz Stevens, Senior Manager of Documentary at Screen Australia. Were pleased to be involved with this next series from the same team, who will now give audiences insight into the intricacies of keeping Australians safe.

Keeping Australia Safe is produced by Elle Gibbons (Keeping Australia Alive, Paddock to Plate) with executive producers Ben Ulm (Keeping Australia Alive, The First ANZACs) and Robert Wallace (Bondi Vet, MasterChef) for ITV Studios Australia.
Next month Nat Geo Wild premieres the 3 part series Wild New Zealand.

Ep 1: Savage Island Giants

Halfway between New Zealand and Antarctica lie the rugged Auckland Islands. A massive congregation of NZ sea lions forms on the sandy beach, and brawling males battle for mating rights, while females give birth.

8.30pm Tuesday July 11 on Nat Geo Wild.
Help India!

Jaipur, (IANS): The CPI-ML worker who was allegedly lynched by civic sanitation workers in Rajasthan died due to cardio respiratory failure, his post-mortem examination report has revealed, a police official said on Monday.

Zafar Khan was killed when he tried to stop the civic body workers from photographing women defecating in the open in Pratapgarh district.

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The report which came late on Sunday evening points out that the tentative cause of death is cardio respiratory failure, Pratapgarhs Superintendent of Police Shivraj Meena told IANS.

However, the final cause of death would be known only after the Forensic Science Laboratory results and reports of the viscera are received, he said.

The report does not indicate any injuries on his body, Meena said.

We are going on ahead with our investigation. I can assure you that it will be fair and impartial, the police superintendent said.

Zafar Khan was attacked on Friday when he objected to the civic authority workers photographing women defecating in the open.

An altercation broke out between the team and Khan. It was alleged that Khan was beaten up badly. He succumbed to his injuries at a hospital later.

Khans brother has lodged an FIR under Section 302 of the IPC (for murder).
Help India!

By TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter

Srinagar: Kashmir based Journalist and editor of online magazine The Kashmir Walla, Fahad Shah was on Sunday, June 18th detained for more than eight hours by JK police in Srinagar.

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Fahad was first detained at police station Zadibal and later shifted to infamous CARGO, run by Special Operations Group (SOG) of J&K police.

I was outside my house when police personnel from police station Zaidabal picked me up and first kept me at the police station and later shifted to the Cargo, Fahad told TwoCirlces.net .

According to Fahad, the officials at CARGO questioned him about his recent trip to Pakistan. The police confiscated his phone and laptop.Later phone was returned to the journalist and laptop was retained by the police.

He was left off by the officials at 7 pm in the evening after interrogation.
Help India!

Mention the name Bhatkal and the first thing that mainstream media will suggest is the coastal towns association with terrorism. Over the past decade, numerous media houses have spent a lot of ink trying to understand, explain and in some cases, even reveal the causes behind the connection between terrorism and Bhatkal. In April 2017, the same media maintained a stoic silence when Shabbir Gangawali was acquitted of all charges and released. In this nine-part series, Amit Kumar looks at how Gangawali was framed; how three residents of Bhatkal were picked up in the most controversial fashion with little proof to substantiate the claims of the Police, how the vilification of a peaceful town has affected its residents and how beyond the image created by the media, a society that is rich in tradition and education continues to flourish. Here is the first part, the story of Gangawalis redemption.

For Shabbir Gangawali, now 35, November 2008 was a time of exploring new pastures. After teaching and leading prayers at a Mosque in Mangalore for a few years, he had landed up in Pune to become an Imam. The money was barely sufficient, but this is all Shabbir, who had completed his Faziliat (equivalent to Masters) from Lucknow, knew: he would eat at his elder sisters place and sleep at the mosque, which was thankfully next door. He was 27, and all he wanted to do was to save some money to send to his mother, who lived alone in Bhatkal, Karnataka. Little did he know that far from sending money to her, he would get to see her only once over the next eight-and-a-half years.

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The last week of November 2008 was a tense period for residents of the entire country. On November 26, Pakistani terrorists had wrecked havoc in Mumbai, killing over 150 people and injuring hundreds. Shabbir had been following the news too. On November 30, in the middle of the night, he was woken up by his sisters husband. I was told that more than 20 people had come to arrest me. I was petrified, scared, but knew that I could do nothing else but go with them. All of them were in civil uniform, and on first impressions, it became clear that it was not the local police, says Shabbir recounting the night.

We meet Shabbir at his home in Maqdoom Colony, Bhatkal. It does not take long to figure out that his home is need of dire repairs: the roof is just about managing to hold on, but the walls are in various stages of decay. A small fan sits precociously: bolted to a thick wooden plank that runs along the sidewalls, a mere foot above our heads. Inside, his mother sits quietly.

To the residents of Bhatkal, it has become pretty clear over the past decade that if cops land up in the middle of the night, it is almost certain that there is a terror angle involved. It did not take me long to figure out that I, a Maulavi from Bhatkal, was arrested from a mosque in Pune so of course, I was to be presented as a bada atankwadi (big terrorist), says Shabbir. While using the term Bada atankwadi, Shabbir uses his hands to draw an imaginary giant; in his imagination, maybe that is how a big terrorist looks.

The next day, the media flashed the news of Shabbirs arrest. Recalling the day, the editor of a local news website says, Every news channel seemed to be trying to outdo each other in trying to prove just how dangerous Shabbir was. It was a field day for them and for the police this was a way to show how they had acted swiftly against the attacks in Mumbai.

According to Shabbir, he was kept in the outskirts of Pune by the ATS and tortured almost daily. When asked where, he merely says, Idhar maara, idhar maara, idhar bhi maara, ({They} beat me here, here, and here too) pointing to different parts of his body: head, legs (sole), knees, private parts. There is no sadness, no anger when he narrates how he would be hung upside down and asked to reveal information on Bhatkals most notorious export: Mohammed Ahmed Siddibapa alias Yasin Bhatkal.

While the name of Yasin has almost single-handedly elevated Bhatkal to notoriety, the editor says this is another example of how the media laps up everything that the Police says as gospel truth. Take the example of Riyaz Bhatkal. He was born and brought up in Mumbai, and should be considered as a resident of Mumbai for all intents and purposes. His mother is from Bhatkal but no one who lived in Bhatkal ever met him. But the media makes it seem like he was some leader of the city who went about poisoning young minds. Siddibapa lived in Dubai. Hardly anyone knew him here. What is the Bhatkal connection here exactly?

Shabbir continued to be illegally detained for over a month before he was officially arrested. In the charge sheet, he was accused of owning fake currency which was allegedly supplied to him by Yasin Bhatkal for financing terror plans. The shame it brought to my family (of being called a terrorist) especially to my sisters living in Pune, was unimaginable. Both my sisters husbands were also detained for the first two days, like they were some sort of collateral, and were also beaten up. They were so shocked after the incident that they barely contacted me ever after that. But can I blame them? asks Shabbir.

According to the charge sheet, Shabbir was in possession of Rs 25,000250 notes of Rs 100 eachat the time of arrest, even though initially the police said that he was caught with one fake note of Rs 500. However, as is often the case, it was not until a year later, in June 2010, that the trial in the fake currency case started. In short, he had spent over 18 months in jail even before the trial began. But 2010 proved to be a challenging year.

In February, blasts outside German Bakery in Pune killed 18 and injured over 54 people, while in April, blasts outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore injured 15 people. The police, as expected, pointed the fingers at Indian Mujahideen, and Yasin and Reyaz Bhatkal, and even tried, unsuccessfully, to frame Shabbir in the Chinnaswamy case. I was in jail when the blasts took place. In fact, I had been in jail for over a year when the incidents occurred, but somehow they tried to frame me. Thankfully, the court understood the same and my name was discharged from the case, he said.

Even this did not bring an end to Shabbirs pains. On June 14, 2010, another case was filed against Shabbir under sections of the UAPA for allegedly supplying jihadi literature to the members of banned SIMI outfit in Mangalore. The Karnataka ATS alleged that the duo circulated jihadi literature among the youths and had indoctrinated them into jihadi ideology.

In November 2011, additional Sessions Court in Pune found Shabbir guilty in the fake currency case and sentenced him to five years of rigorous imprisonment based on the testimony of one police officer. Since he had already spent 3.5 years in jail, he was to serve one and a half years more, but the last six months of his jail term were waived off for his good behaviour.

With the Pune fake currency over, Shabbir was moved back to Karnataka to Mangalore jail for the case of distributing Jihadi literature. Talking about his days in Mangalore, Shabbir says, I used to work in a mosque and teach the children too. To this day, I do not know what they mean by Jihadi literature. And to make it worse for me, they denied me bail at every point saying I was a threat.

In 2016, of the seven arrested in the same case, four were released on bail. Shabbir, however, was denied bail again following which his lawyers appealed to the Supreme Court for his bail and argued there was no evidence against him. The Apex Court directed the Karnataka High court and Mangalore District and Sessions Court to give a judgement within a year, and finally, in April 2017, Shabbir along with three others was acquitted of all charges.

After release, the struggle for rehabilitation

Shabbir finally walked out a free man on April 10, 2017, nine years after his illegal detention. The world seems scarier now, Shabbir says. He admits that his failure to take care of his mother, who lost vision in one eye, will forever haunt him. My siblings took her care to the best of their abilities, but I should have been here and I wasnt, he says. He says that although he has been out, it feels even more suffocating at times.

Even people who have known me for years approach me with caution. Some shake hands, others wave from a distance, the rest will not even acknowledge me, he says. He added that even officials of Majis-e-Islah-Wa-Tanzeem, the main social organisation in Bhatkal, had not visited him. When we questioned the Tanzeem officials about why they had refused to even meet him let alone help his rehabilitation, the official said, He has just come out. We will discuss his plight in the next meeting, and refused to get into details.

But more than the societys reaction, what is troubling Shabbir the most is how he will find a source of income. Who will give me a job? My dream has always been to teach kids, but even in Bhatkal, I have not really felt like people trust me. Sure, they come and say nice things but deep inside they do not want to take the risk of employing me, he says. The verdict might still be challenged in High Court, so we never know, he says. All I want to do is start a normal life again. But as of now, I do not know the way to a normal life, he says.
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By Misbahuddin Mirza for TwoCircles.net

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Over the ages, the fertile lands of India have constantly attracted wave after wave of peoples to migrate and settle on its vast lands. From the natives in the Mesolithic and Neolithic ages, followed by the Harappans, then the Aryans, the Achaemenids, the Greeks, the Magadhans, the Scythians, the Parthians, the Huns, and finally the Muslims all made India its home and hearth. The two things common to all these groups was that they all made India their permanent home  living and dying here, and secondly, none of these groups transferred wealth out of India. Firaq Gorakhpuri, the great Urdu poet wrote about these successive waves of people that made India into the grand mosaic that it now is, as follows:

Sar Zamin-e-Hind par aqwaam-e-alam ke firaq

Qafile guzarte gae Hindusthan banta gaya

(In the lands of Hind, the caravans of people kept arriving, and India kept taking shape)

Fast forward to the British colonial period, and we see an abrupt departure from the tradition to settle on this land. The British came not to settle here, but to steal and ship all the wealth out of the country; tombstones of British civil servants who died in India unexpectedly due to disease mention of the sadness in dying in an alien land. The Persian term Hindu, was initially used simply as a geographical identifier, under which the colonial British lumped together all non-Muslim residents of India, to serve their nefarious divide-and-rule policy.

The British created this myth that people of the sub-continent before the Muslims arrival followed a single homogeneous, indigenous religion called Hinduism, which was always at loggerheads with an alien invading religion Islam. In this colonial narrative you had good Muslims like Akbar who had given up Islam and adopted Hindu beliefs such as daily worship of the Sun; and then you had the terrible Muslims like Aurangzeb who dared to follow his Islamic beliefs, although, he tried to be a good administrator to all his subjects. The ultra right wing Hindu groups in India adopted the colonial narrative of history, as it helped them unite the diverse Indian religions into a single entity, based on a perceived common enemy  the Muslims.

Audrey Truschkes book Aurangzeb: The life and Legacy of Indias most controversial king, removes the hate-lenses from our eyes, so that we could see Aurangzeb for what he actually was. Using original Persian sources, Dr. Truschke shows us a ruler who had a mixed relationship with his subjects that largely stood independent of their religious beliefs. He appointed 50% more Hindu Rajas to his court then did the much touted Akbar. He granted lands and money for the building of Hindu temples.

Truschke writes, In reality Aurangzeb pursued no overarching agenda vis-a-vis Hindus within his state. Hindus of the day often did not even label themselves as such and rather prioritized a medley of regional, sectarian, and caste identities (e.g. Rajput, Maratha, Brahmin, Vaishnava). As many scholars have pointed out, the word Hindu is Persian, not Sanskrit, and only became commonly used self-referentially during British colonialism.

Truschke points out that Aurangzeb was fluent in Hindi from childhood, and quotes the Italian traveler Niccoli Manucci about Aurangzeb He was of a melancholy temperament, always busy at something or another, wishing to execute justice and arrive at appropriate decisions. She also quotes Ishvaradasa, a Hindu astrologer, who wrote about Aurangzeb in Sanskrit in 1663 calling the king righteous (dharmya) and even noted that the Kings tax policies were lawful (vidhivat). Truschkes point is not that Aurangzeb was just but rather that a wide variety of individuals, including Hindus, identified Aurangzebs pursuit of his vision of justice as crucial to his kingship.

She also quotes the following stanza authored by Chandar Bhan Brahman, a Hindu, Persian-medium poet in Aurangzebs employ:

O King may the world bow to your command;

May lips drip with expressions of thanks and salutations;

Since it is your spirit that watches over the people,

Wherever you are, may God watch over you!

She continues Hindus fared well in Aurangzebs massive bureaucracy, finding employment and advancement opportunities. Since Akbars time, Rajputs and other Hindus had served as full members of the Mughal administration. Like their Muslim counterparts, they received formal ranks known as mansabs that marked their status in the imperial hierarchy and fought to expand the empire.

Truschke quotes Aurangzebs February 1659 farman You must see that nobody unlawfully disturbs the Brahmins or other Hindus of that region, so that they might remain in their place and pray for the continuance of the Empire.

Truschke concludes I have argued that Aurangzeb acted according to his ideals of justice, commitment to political and ethical conduct (adaab and akhlaq), and the necessities of politics. Aurangzebs worldview was also shaped by his piety and the Mughal culture he inherited. He was not interested in fomenting Hindu-Muslim conflict  a modern obsession with modern stakes- but he was fixated on dispensing his brand of justice, upholding Mughal traditions, and expanding his grip across the subcontinent.

I interviewed Dr. Truschke about her fascinating new book Aurangzeb: The life and Legacy of Indias most controversial king.

In your CV you mention that you can read Persian; I assume that means that you can understand what you have read in Persian too?

Yes, I can understand the Persian that I read. I say that I read Persian on my CV in order to clarify that I do not speak the language fluently. I also read and understand Urdu, although to a lesser degree. I do not know Arabic.

The list of seminars listed on your CV are so fascinating. Actually, I had thought about researching and writing on a couple of those topics, thinking that I had come up with novel and brilliant topics (e.g.: Akbar- Shah or Raja; Prithviraj Chauhan); only to see those and many more topics already being researched/ written on by trained historians. I love hanging out with Islamic Numismatists at every opportunity; is there a way that amateurs like myself can sneak into any of these history-conferences?

That depends on the conference. Some conferences are open to all who wish to attend, especially smaller ones (such as the conference in Paris in early June of 2017 at which I presented on Prithviraj Chauhan). Larger conferences, such as the American Academy of Religion Annual Conference and the Annual Conference on South Asia require a fee in order to attend (although, anybody is welcome to pay that fee and come).

I know you described how you researched for this book  but, as you indicated there are tons of materials available on Aurangzeb waiting for patient, organized and persistent historians to discover. But, how does one find information on elusive figures like Prithviraj Chauhan, who, I thought there was precious little information about.

There are a lot of later accounts of Prithviraj Chauhan, but precious little historical information from his actual time. How do historians deal with this? One option is to change the sorts of questions we ask. For example, Cynthia Talbots The Last Hindu Emperor (2015) traces the development of stories surrounding Prithviraj over time, rather than trying to get back to the real history. Another option is to make better use of the sources that we have. Scholars, especially of earlier generations, sometimes had different ideas about what constituted a reliable source and how to read multiple sources with and against one another. Modern thinkers can often improve on earlier methods and findings.

Why did you choose to be a historian?

My original interest is in India, rather than in history at large. I studied Indian religions as an undergraduate and Indian languages, cultures, and histories as a graduate student. I eventually found that the best fit of my particular set of interests was within the discipline of history. Now I am deeply invested in reconstructing Indias past, to the best of my abilities.

You choose a rather large geographical area of specialization? Doesnt that pose difficulties?

Yes. This comes up most frequently in teaching. I teach historical overview courses on South Asia, and my knowledge outside of North and Central India is comparatively weak. I do not know any South Indian languages, for example, and my grasp of, say, Nepali history, is tenuous. I remind my students repeatedly that it is insane to hire a single person to cover 5,000 years of history for about 1/5 of the worlds population. Imagine if we expected one person to cover the entirety of European history, with all of Europes different languages, cultures, empires, and so forth? Essentially, that I am asked to cover a large geographical area and temporal period is a problem created by the privileging of Western history in the Western academy.

What was your Ph.D on?

I wrote my PhD on Sanskrit and Persian literary encounters at the Mughal court. I later revised my thesis and published it as my first book, Culture of Encounters: Sanskrit at the Mughal Court.

How long did it take you to write this book?

I wrote Aurangzeb rather quickly, in about two years. Once I settled on the topic, I realized that I had been thinking about Aurangzeb Alamgir for a decade and written very little about him, so I had done some of the leg-work in terms of analysis already. I deliberately set out to write a short biography, which accelerated the writing process.

When you started writing this book, did you have some information indicating that the allegations against Aurangzeb were either fictional or grossly exaggerated?

Yes. Historians have accepted for decades that Aurangzeb did not destroy thousands of temples nor did he commit a genocide against Hindus. In the course of writing Aurangzeb, I checked those claims and revisited the evidence upon which historians have come to such a consensus. But those parts of my book, while deeply controversial in the public eye, are actually pretty bland and standard in the view of historians of the Mughal period.

Did you face any difficulties during your research for this book  as in people putting hurdles in your way?

Not really. I disagreed with my first Indian publisher regarding how to best introduce Aurangzeb to a broad Indian audience, and, as a result, we decided to dissolve our contract. Penguin, who ultimately published Aurangzeb in India, has been hugely supportive of the book and its content.

How did you find the courage to write on a topic knowing that it was sure to invite ultra right wing radicals to make baseless and unreasoned attacks on you?

I did not write the book for the right-wingers. I wrote the book because I thought that there was a substantial group of educated Indian readers who think that there was more to Aurangzeb than they had been led to believe and who would appreciate a more historically-grounded approach to this complicated Mughal king. My fans are, wisely, often quieter than my critics. But I have received enough private messages and emails to be convinced that many have appreciated my efforts to bring calm, reasoned history to a broad readership.

What is the motivating/ driving factor in writing books on critically important topics of Indias history? Do historians like yourself feel that historians have a moral obligation to society to set the record straight  analogous to a physicians Hippocratic Oath?

Some historians might cringe at that idea, actually. History as a discipline has many critical things to say about ideas of ultimate truth. But I think that most historians do not write in an environment where the very tenets of historical knowledge and analysis are under assault, both in popular thought and at a government level. I do subscribe to a set of professional ethics that demand, among other things, that I try to accurately reconstruct the past.

How does it feel joining the group of highly respectable historians like Romila Thapar, and Richard Eaton, who stand tall refusing to succumb to revisionists trying to create pseudo-history?

It feels like an honour and a privilege.

What is your next book about?

I am currently working on my third book on Sanskrit literary histories of Indo-Islamic political figures and rule, dating from the late twelfth through the early eighteenth centuries. I anticipate that this book will take a number of years to write.

Misbahuddin Mirza is a licensed professional engineer, registered in the States of New York and New Jersey and has written for major US and Indian publications.
It has been a chaotic month since Theresa May returned to Downing Street as head of a minority government. Many of her allies, like Ruth Davidson, have pressured her into supporting a soft Brexit, which would mean the UK remains inside the European Economic Area, or the Single Market. Economic adviser Dr. Gerard Lyons was correct to suggest the British Government needs to appear united as David Davis begins negotiations with the EU today. Yet isn't it ironic the saviour of a total EU withdrawal is the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond?

'He fails to hold any leverage'

His support for Mrs May's Brexit plans has appeared to be rather wobbly since he was appointed Chancellor. He delivered a pessimistic and cautious Autumn Statement last November, failing to capitalise on the UK's prospects as it prepares to leave the EU. Many thought he would use the collapse of a Tory majority to advocate a softer EU exit to the Prime Minister.

His embarrassing March Budget has weakened his stance in the Conservative leader's eyes. She warned Mr. Hammond she does not care if U-turning on the proposed tax increases for the self-employed would embarrass him, yet he still did it. He fails to hold any leverage over the Prime Minister. Why should she listen to a man who was prepared to tax those likely to vote Conservative?

Therefore he had no choice but to support her plans to quit the Single Market and Customs Union. Given he holds the second highest office in the land, this is still a substantial victory for an embattled Prime Minister and will weaken the soft Brexiteers immensely. Perhaps this is the silver lining Theresa May needs?
Talking to a crowd in Miami on Friday Donald Trump announced that he will be enforcing the ban on tourism and the embargo on Cuba, reversing Obama's policy to relax restrictions. Through its Foreign Ministry, Russia was quick to slam the decision describing it as anti-Cuba discourse and Cold War rhetoric.

Reversing Obama's Cuban Policy

Donald Trump had promised during the 2016 campaign for president, to reverse Obama's decision to develop closer ties with Cuba and did just that by declaring an immediate cancellation of Obama's Cuba policies. He described these policies as one- sided and said that the ban on tourism would be enforced as would the embargo.

However, even with an embargo and ban on tourism, Trump will retain one part of the Obama era Cuban policy; he will keep the US embassy in that country open.

Trump wants relations with Russia but not Cuba

He campaigned on a pledge to improve relations with Russia but Donald Trump has cemented the divide between Cuba and the United States. As president-elect, Trump had said that only fools or stupid people would not want closer ties with Moscow. And even after being briefed about Russia's involvement in the US elections, Trump tweeted that relations with Russia are a good thing. However, improved relations with Moscow are yet to materialize while Cuba and Russia continue to cement their relations.

Just recently a deal was signed between the two countries to renew oil shipments to Cuba.

Anti-Cuba discourse

Donald Trump's decision to roll back Obama era warming relations with Cuba and to tighten some restrictions has been denounced by the Russian government and described the policy as resorting to Cold War-era rhetoric.

The Russian Foreign Ministry declared that this new approach can only induce regret and that it was clear that anti-Cuba discourse is still needed. They praised the easing of sanctions under the Obama administration as a political decision that was well thought out.

The crackdown and the fallout

Under Donald Trump's Cuba plan, Americans traveling to the Island will face tighter restrictions and it removes the ability for travellers to engage in independent visits and thus limiting them to authorized tour groups.

There is also a crackdown on US business relations with the Cuban military. Since the Cuban military controls two-thirds of the economy of the Island, this move could be problematic for US businesses. There could be an outcry from new business ventures and those farm states that were depending on the Cuban market for their produce.
Mali is under attack for the second time in as many years

Mali last year experienced an Attack similar to Saturday's attack and in the same location, Bamako. Last year terrorists attacked a hotel called Radisson Blu in Mali, the attack left Mali in a state of emergency, which was recently extended again this year in April. In last year's attack, there were 20 casualties, six of the dead were Malians and the rest, 14 of them, foreigners.

In Saturday's attack, residents reported hearing shots fired and seeing smoke coming from the direction of the resort.

Mali's security ministry stated that at least two people have been killed by armed men who attacked the luxury resort Campement de Kangaba which is located at least 10 kilometres outside the city. The luxury resort is said to be a location that is frequented by top officials and foreigners. "It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened and about 20 hostages have been released," Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP news agency "Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese."

Reports from the location are sparse because at the moment this is a developing story and the attack and its containment are still in progress. There was information that an attack was imminent which prompted the U.S Embassy in Mali to issue a security warning on June 9th.

It cited an increased threat of attacks. They listed diplomatic missions, churches, resorts, hotels, restaurants and other places in Bamako where Westerners frequent among potential targets and encouraged its citizens to stay away from those locations which have poor security measures in place.

Mali and her neighbour's terror history

Since 2013 the situation in Mali has been on a consistent decline. This coincided with the time when the French forces named Bakhane came to the aid of its colony by repelling allied Islamists and Tuareg rebel fighters from parts in the country's North.

A 12,000-strong force of UN Peacekeepers called MINUSMA and an estimated 11,000 French forces have been battling to help stabilise Mali.

The peacekeepers have also been the aim of frequent attacks.

Burkina Faso was also attacked on January 2016, the attack was at a top hotel plus a nearby restaurant in the nation's capital Ouagadougou. Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) claimed responsibility for this attack in which 30 people died. In March 2016 there was another attack on an Ivorian Beach Resort called Grand-Bassam, responsibility was also claimed by AQIM.

https://uk.blastingnews.com/london/2017/06/six-dead-in-terrorist-attack-in-london-001748159.html

https://uk.blastingnews.com/tech/2017/05/cyber-attack-hits-150-countries-us-government-microsoft-warn-of-weaknesses-001699829.html
The U.S Department of Justice has announced that a 65-year-old man named Robert Doggart from Tennessee has been jailed for 235 months for hiring a man to burn a mosque in Islamberg, New York. The announcement was made by the U.S Attorney General and the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee.

How Robert planned to commit his crimes

The FBI back in 2015 through a confidential source learned that Rober recruited people online so that they can take part in burning a mosque which is located in a large Muslim populated area in New York.

He also planned to have a school, and a cafeteria in Islamberg burned as well. According to court evidence presented by the FBI, Robert met someone in Nashville and discussed the details of the planned arson attack by showing the person a map of the area and gave him information of the type of guns that should be used for the attacks. Robert planned to bring down the mosque with explosives and Petrol Bombs. The FBI also intercepted his calls and presented the recording in court where he was heard discussing killing people; except children.

The U.S attorney general after the hearing said that the Justice Department does not tolerate people that infringe on other's rights of worship.

Islamophobia

Anti-Muslim hate crimes rose by 67 percent in the U.S in the year 2015. According to statistics from the FBI, hate crimes against Muslims rose from 154 cases in 2014 to 257 cases in the year 2015. According to the report, hate crimes were much higher after 9/11 attacks. On that year, there were 481 hate crimes against Muslims that were recorded.

Hate crimes against Muslims have also been on the rise after Donald Trump became president.

In Europe, Islamophobia attacks have increased because of increased ISIL attacks. A majority of incidences has been witnessed in Norway, Poland, France, Sweeden, Denmark, and Span. Attacks against Muslims include blaming Muslims for terrorism, verbal abuse, spitting on Muslims, forcibly removing hijabs worn by women as well as calling children Osama.

Islamophobia has been on the rise due to terrorist attacks against Christians and people of other religions such as the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The media has also been blamed for consistently showing incidences of terrorism in the Middle East. Some citizens have also shown support for governments and leaders that are against Muslim infiltration into communities. Islamophobia in the U.S has also been on the rise since the election of Donald Trump as president.
President Donald Trump just expanded his legal team, but one of his lawyers appears to be out of touch with reality. Jay Sekulow, a member of his personal legal team, insisted that the president was not under investigation when he appeared on Fox News Sunday.

While Sekulow said the president is not being investigated by special counsel Robert Mueller, he contradicted himself on the same show when he said Trump is being investigated. In his Twitter post on Friday, Trump tweeted that he is being investigated and called the probe a witch hunt.

Based on recommendations from AG and DAG

He maintained that the president is not being investigated for obstruction of justice in an exchange with host Chris Wallace because they have not received a notice of investigation. He said Trumps tweet was based only on The Washington Post report.

At the same time, the lawyer blamed the firing of FBI Director James Comey on several events, including the recommendations from Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. His statement, however, contradicts Trumps tweet that it was Mueller who recommended Comeys dismissal.

Sekulow said Trump took action based on their recommendation, and as a result, he is being investigated.

It was the constitutional threshold question involved, the lawyer said. When Wallace pointed out to Sekulow that he just said Trump is under investigation, the lawyer said Wallace re-phrased him, The New York Post reported.

The lawyer retorted that Wallace placed words in his mouth when he was crystal clear Trump is not and has not been under investigation.

Brad Simon, an ex-federal prosecutor, clarified that federal agencies never formally tell people they are investigating that they are being investigated. The subjects of the investigation only find out if charges are filed and they get a subpoena.

Taking down Mueller

Trump has not backed down from removing Mueller from the investigation, The New York Daily News reported.

According to Rep. Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, the president and his legal team are still open to the possibility.

Schiff told This Week on ABC News that Trump and his lawyers want to lay the foundation to discredit whatever the special counsel will come up with. The California congressman said that the president and his associates are engaged in a scorched earth litigation strategy that begins with discrediting Mueller.

He cited former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, who told the same ABC show that he has a problem with what the special counsel is doing. Gingrich also cited the friendship between Mueller and Comey, which the Trump supporter described as weird. Now, there are also reports that Rosenstein, who has the sole power to remove Mueller from the investigation, is considering recusing himself. If he does that, the power would be placed in the hands of Rachel Lee Brand, the third-highest official in the Department of Justice, according to The Washington Post.
The London Police presumed at least 58 people were killed in a massive fire 24-story residential apartment building (Grenfell Tower) in the Kensington area, USA Today reported.

The fire in the 24-storey residential building of the Grenfell Tower in the west of London occurred on Wednesday night, 14 June. The fire enveloped the building from the second to the 24th floors. About 200 firefighters took part in the fire extinguishing, they managed to save 65 people.

Scotland Yard reported that as a result of the fire in Grenfell Tower killed at least 30 people and that there are 24 people in hospitals, while 12 of them remain in intensive care.

Meanwhile, the Sky News television channel reported with reference to its own sources that "70 people who are missing are probably dead."

Missing toll could be 58

A few days ago London experienced a devastating fire. Killing 58, injuring many more. Join us in prayer for those families affected!! pic.twitter.com/ameUEF0liO  God's Love (@God_Loved) June 18, 2017

According to the police spokesman and Commander Stuart Cundy, officially 58 people are considered missing. These include the bodies of 16 people who were taken to the morgue. Cundy added that the death toll could increase. Law enforcers hope that this will not happen. As reported by the BBC, the police said that in fact there is no chance to find alive those who are still missing.

On Friday, the London police reported that the number of victims of the fire reached 30.

Cundy also said about the authorities plan to release the images and the video from inside the badly-damaged building.

Victims of Grenfell Tower fire

#MarcoGottardi e #GloriaTrevisan were in the #GrenfellTower #London on the fire night. No news since then. If you can help let someone know. pic.twitter.com/t0F14UpVpf  Arianna Bin (@binarianna_) June 15, 2017

Italian Foreign Ministry said that in a London skyscraper fire, young Italian architects, Gloria Trevisan and Marco Gottardi were killed.

According to the agency, the 27-year-old bride and groom, graduates of the University of Venice, received a contract to create a new project in the British capital. For two months they lived on the 23rd floor of the 24-story tower block which went up in flames.

Marc Gottardi's father told the Italian media that in the first call of his son everything seemed to be under control but on the second call his son told him that there were a lot of smoke.

Protesters called May, a coward

According to the British Media, the hundreds of protesters gathered outside 10 Drowning Street on Saturday, shouting out aloud and were chanting that May is a coward. The protesters also expressed the anger on the prime minister that she did not meet with the victims of the fire tragedy on her visit to the neighborhood place following the incident.

Hundreds outside Downing St to protest against Theresa May. Kids and pensioners - practically everyone - using the word 'coward'. pic.twitter.com/Q2lEENf51u  Mark Townsend (@TownsendMark) June 17, 2017

According to the Guardian newspaper, one of the protesters, Tilly Howard said, May is coward and she needs to leave
According to Fox News, the London van attack that took place earlier today is being investigated as a terror attack. The incident happened right outside a local Islamic Mosque. The attack left one dead and 10 others injured as police arrived on the scene. The police are investigating the event as a terror attack because it has all the hallmark signs of the other vehicle attacks that took place earlier this year.

Police say that the suspect, a 48-year old man, was arrested after the collision outside of the Muslim Welfare House. The police took him to a local mental hospital for a mental evaluation, reports Fox News.

According to Fox, the event happened around midnight after the Ramadan prayers.

What is Ramadan?

The question many people have is what is Ramadan, and what significance does this month have for terror attacks? As reported in The Atlantic, ISIS has called for more attacks, during this Month Of Ramadan. According to the piece, the order was given through an audio message that was then distributed to the higher ups in the terror organization. They then spread the message through social media to their faithful followers.

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. During this month, Muslims worldwide observe this month with strict fasting from sunrise to sunset. Then the Muslims eat after the sun goes down and celebrate the days fasting.

So what is significant about Ramadan and terror attacks?

Ramadan and terror attacks

Iran was recently the victim of two terror attacks that claimed the lives of 17 people and wounded twice as many. So what is the significance or Ramadan and terror? According to a piece in the Washington Post, terrorists warp the meaning of Ramadan to fit their doctrine.

For many Muslims, Ramadan is a time to re-read the Quran and to reflect on their faith. But to the terrorists, it is reportedly a reason to destroy as many unbelievers as they can before the month of Ramadan is complete.

There are two different sects of Islam. ISIS is Sunni and countries like Iran are Shea. The Sunnis feel like the Shea's are unbelievers just like a non-Muslim.

So during Ramadan, the Sunni treat Shea like any other non-believer and that is the main reason why Shea Muslims get attacked during Ramadan. So the Sunni, feel like attacking non-believers is what their god wants them to do. What are your thoughts? Comment in the comment section below and let us know what you think.
Russia condemned the shooting down of a Pro-Assad jet fighter by a U.S. Navy plane near the town of Raqqa. Because of the attack which Moscow labeled as a "massive violation of international law," U.S. planes will now be treated as targets by both Russia and Syria.

Why did the U.S. Navy down a Pro-Assad jet fighter?

According to reports from the Syrian Democratic Force, the pro-Assad Su-22 jet fighter was targeting rebel forces attacking ISIS-controlled Raqqa. The threat posed by the government plane forced U.S. naval intelligence to sortie out and shoot down the belligerent aircraft.

Though the narrative is denied by Russian intelligence, the reports of Syrian aggression against rebels has become a rallying banner for Sdf troops to fight Assad's regime.

The downing of the government plane is the first time an American aircraft engaged in an air-to-air combat over Syria. With the downing of the Syrian plane by American fighter jets, Russia will not easily forgive what has just happened. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that they will now treat U.S. planes as targets. They also warned the US planes Pcan be attacked if deemed necessary.

The Kremlin added that any coalition aircraft spotted west of the Euphrates river will be regarded as targets and may be attacked by air and ground defenses.

The conflagration in Syria is starting to worsen as SDF fighters and Assad forces are slowly destroying ISIS positions in Syria, leaving no common enemy to fight against.

After the terrorist group is eliminated, it is likely that the rebels and government forces will faceoff in a deadly showdown. Russia is adamantly protecting Assad from being toppled by Syrian rebels, but the United States is mum about actively supporting the opposition to end Assad's brutal regime.

What is the reaction of the United States to Russia's threat?

Ever since U.S. forces started to back Syrian rebels during Obama's administration, the tension between Russia and the US has always been high. Assad's forces were almost toppled at that time but Russian intervention allowed the government continued to persist.

Now, Assad's forces are storming through ISIS controlled territory, plowing through installations and defensive strongholds, pushing ISIS ever so slowly out of the country.

This is in contrast to the Syrian Democratic Forces, which has stalled in Raqqa after starting its offensive late in May. The fate of Syria is still in the balance as rebels and government forces play a "Game of Thrones" type of situation that will cause more years of bloodshed and sorrow for millions of Syrians.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) vowed after downing a government jet fighter that they will fight Assad's forces if provoked. The downed aircraft is now identified as an SU-22 fighter, which was intercepted due to alleged reports of attacking SDF personnel in Raqqa.

What is the state between the SDF and Assad's forces?

SDF Spokesperson Talal Selowas posted on Facebook that Assad's jet fighters have deliberately attacked rebel forces in liberated regions near the cities of Tabqa and Raqqa. This is in justification for the downing of an SU-22 Syrian fighter jet that has bombed SDF positions in the city of Raqqa during the attack against the remaining ISIS pockets in the city.

The Raqqa offensive had come to a snail's pace as ISIS fighters have entrenched themselves securely in the remaining few sectors in the city not liberated by SDF soldiers. In the meantime, Assad's forces are gaining ground as they plow through large areas of ISIS territory. This is a problem for SDF forces as they are slowly being encircled by government forces as they suffer a protracted fight in Raqqa.

the Syrian government will, at some point in time, have to confront the SDF fighters that are backed by the United States. It is still not sure what will happen after ISIS is defeated but it is highly likely that the two forces are headed to a blood-soaked conflict.

What will the United States do after ISIS is defeated in Syria?

Washington hasn't provided enough details on the post-war policy in Syria but as of the moment, fighting Assad isn't one of them. The problem of the United States fighting Assad is that the country is supported by Russia and Iran. A war with Assad might trigger a war with Russia, which will be catastrophic.

The Pentagon had released statements that American forces are not in Syria to topple Assad's government but only to protect U.S. assets in areas designated as deconfliction zones. However, with the rapid advance of government forces on reclaiming ISIS territories, Syria be a security problem for both the U.S. and SDF troops.

Russia has provided active support to Assad's forces on their attack on ISIS strongholds in Palmyra and the Eastern desert. As of the moment, the Syrian government had reached the Iraqi border and now liberated the Southern desert and much of Eastern Syria. A confrontation with the SDF is the most likely scenario once ISIS is taken out of the political landscape in Syria.
The good news is that Otto Warmbier, a 22-year-old student, is free from a North Korean prison where he spent the last 17 months. The bad news is that he has lost a considerable amount of brain tissue and will likely never recover. The Atlantic poses the obvious question, what happened to him?

Warmbier falls afoul of North Korean law

Warmbier, who was in North Korea as part of a guided tour out of China, was at the airport ready to leave when he was arrested for attempting to steal a propaganda sign as a souvenir. After a show trial and a forced confession, the young man was sentenced to 15 years hard labor and vanished into the North Korean prison system.

While the Obama administration seemed not disposed to make any serious effort to free Warmbier, the situation changed once Donald Trump was elected president. After a Swedish diplomatic delegation visited the young man and found that he was in a coma, the State Department insisted that he be released immediately. The North Koreans apparently embarrassed at what had happened to their prisoner, acceded to the demand. Warmbier is now in a hospital in Cincinnati.

What happened to Otto Warmbier?

Otto Warmbier has lost a considerable amount of brain tissue and exhibits what doctors call spontaneous eye-opening and blinking. He shows no sign of awareness. Warmbier does not show any signs of trauma from the result of beatings one would expect from being in a North Korean prison.

The destruction of brain tissue was likely caused by prolonged respiratory arrest. The North Koreans claim that Warmbier suffered from botulism and took a sleeping pill. Much of that explanation does not add up.

Substandard medical care

Everything points to substandard medical care on the part of the North Koreans. While Warmbier shows no sign of having had botulism, signs would likely not be presented about a year and a half later.

In any case, the disease is highly treatable. As botulism can lead to paralysis to muscles in the body, in combination with a sleeping pill, it is entirely possible that it led to a cardiopulmonary arrest that resulted in the destruction of Warmbiers brain tissue. But such an incident is also treatable, using cardiac resuscitation and ventilatory support.

How North Korea destroyed a young man

It seems clear that the North Koreans arrested Warmbier on a trumped up charge and sentenced him to a draconian stretch in a labor camp as a way to make him a pawn in its relations with the United States. Then, something went wrong, and the young man suffered more through neglect and incompetence than through active torture. Such behavior demonstrates the barbarity of the North Korean regime.
Sunday evening, June 18, at 7 p.m. ET, NBC will air Megyn Kelly's interview with the host of InfoWars, Alex Jones, who has become somewhat notorious for his seemingly incendiary commentary. Controversy has surrounded the interview, which Jones was reported by Deadline Hollywood to have asked NBC News not to air. In response, NBC made a "nuts-to-you statement" to InfoWars and Jones with regard to their intent to air the interview, which was conducted several days ago.

Jones was said to have been displeased with commercials for the interview, which he is said to view as distorting his opinions.

After first releasing portions of audio captured during telephone conversations between himself and Megyn Kelly, Jones released a second batch of recordings, which reportedly include the entire unedited interview.

What time is the Megyn Kelly, Alex Jones interview on?

The Megyn Kelly interview with Alex Jones, a man described by co-founder of the The Young Turks, Cenk Uygur, as a "lunatic," is scheduled to air Sunday evening at 7 p.m. ET.

In audio released by Jones, a woman, purported to be Megyn Kelly, can be heard calling someone, ostensibly Jones, "fascinating," and promising that she does what she says she's going to do, and that she doesn't "double cross." In a another audio clip, Jones can be heard asking Kelly if the intent of the interview was to serve as an "investigative report into fake news."

"Hell no," the voice responds, and continues that they are interested in interviewing the far-right host because of his recent custody case, where it came to light that his contribution to InfoWars is not actually news reporting, but performance art.

Kelly can be heard seemingly attempting to butter Jones up, professing a belief that the media had treated him unfairly during his court proceedings.

Who is Alex Jones? Five quotes from the 43-year-old Texan

"Hillary, reportedly, I was told by people around her that they think she's demon possessed," Jones stated in a video produced during the 2016 election race.

The host held up reports of a sulfur-like smell being detected near the former secretary of state, as well as assertions that flies appeared to be attracted to former President Barack Obama as evidence of a supernatural connection. He added that Hillary Clinton is an outright "demon."

"This guy has access to real power in the world?" Cenk Uygur asked viewers in an October 2016 video.

CNN has reported on President Donald Trump lauding Jones' reputation as "amazing." President Trump has been interviewed by Alex Jones, during a broadcast telephone conversation, in December 2015. Under the Trump administration, InfoWars has been granted temporary press access to the White House.

'9-11 was an inside job.'

A clip from NBC of the upcoming interview shows Kelly asking Jones about the September 11 attacks, to which he replies, "9-11 was an inside job." Jones also stated, when asked by Kelly, that he was "absolutely not" the "most paranoid man in America." He held up his willingness to conduct interviews, his career, and his media presence as evidence of this.

'The official story of Sandy Hook has more holes in it than Swiss cheese.'

When confronted with the parents' of children lost in the Sandy Hook tragedy shattered lives, and the hurt and sorrow caused by his prior suggestions that the incident was a hoax, Megyn Kelly accused Jones of dodging her question.

Instead of answering, he asked the former Fox News host about Iraqis who have died as a result of sanctions.

Jones has been said to have attempted to make connections between anti-Second Amendment forces and the Sandy Hook tragedy. The Hartford Courant reports that several families of victims of the massacre are considering legal action if the interview is aired. A letter from Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder to NBC called Jones' claims surrounding the incident "lies."

'I made comments about Mr. Alefantis that in hindsight I regret, and for which I apologize to him.'

The Washington Post reported on Alex Jones' apology to James Alefantis, the owner of Comet Ping Pong in Washington, D.C., which had become the focus of baseless accusations that it was the center of a "child sex-abuse ring run by Hillary Clinton and her [then] campaign chairman, John Podesta."

In December 2016, after hearing Jones' reports about Comet Ping Pong, Edgar Madisson Welch, of North Carolina, visited the pizzeria carrying a loaded assault weapon, and proceeded to fire off several rounds inside the restaurant.

No one was injured in the incident. Welch later pleaded guilty to weapons and assault charges. Jones formally apologized for spreading the fake news.

'It's not human intelligence that we're facing!'

The Young Turks has featured a 2016 clip of Jones speaking of a globalist movement that spells doom for humanity. He described a "total revolution against the planet itself." Later in the InfoWars clip, Jones offered the opinion that "the devil" is behind the forces he sees at work. He went on to describe the adversary as an "alien force" that is "not of this world," and President Trump as a "revelation of the awakening." Jones further elaborated on "advanced life extension" and "inter-dimensional" technology that he views as being held back from humanity.

Cenk Uygur openly pondered Jones' contentions with regard to aliens and the devil, professing to lack an understanding of whether or not the two groups were working in conjunction. Uygur also made note of Jones' seeming dislike of shirts, and his apparent trademark move of removing his clothing while in the throws of vigorous discourse. At least one YouTube video chronicles Jones' evident propensity for public displays of undress.
Russia has issued a threat that all American aircraft operating west of the Euphrates River will now be considered targets by its forces in Syria. The warning stopped short of a promise to shoot United States planes down. But, the threat demonstrates Russian anger at the downing of a Syrian bomber by the United States Navy F/A-18 while attacking Syrian Democratic Forces positions. The Russians are also suspending a communications line between its military and the American forces operating against ISIS in Syria.

Why are the Russians making such threats?

In the face of it, an attack by Russia on American forces in Syria would be an insane act. Russia in the region is entirely outclassed by the military power that the United States could bring to bear in the area in the event of a conflict.

Doubtless, the real reason that Russia is making such threats is to bring psychological pressure on the Trump administration which has become decidedly more aggressive in fighting ISIS in Syria and Iraq. Russia would like to reestablish a viable Syrian state under its control in the Middle East. Such an event would run contrary to American interests, especially since such a state would also be an ally of Iran. The threat can, therefore, be seen as a way to make the United States think twice before taking aggressive action against Syria.

What if a conflict between Russia and the United States breaks out?

Supposing that a Russian anti-aircraft battery or a fighter took a shot at an American aircraft, the likely response by the American military would be to either take out the battery or the airfield from where the offending jet fighter took off. If an American aircraft were actually shot down, more forceful measures would be undertaken.

What happens next depends on whether the two sides are willing to draw back and start negotiating.

The United States could defeat the Russian military in Syria in short order. However, Russian leader Vladimir Putin would have endless opportunities to make trouble elsewhere in the world, say against the Baltic States or Poland, both NATO allies.

Things could get as nasty as they havent been since the cold war.

Speaking of the Cold War, the scenario that kept military planners awake at night and was the basis of lurid television productions like The Day After in which things get so out of hand that mushroom clouds start popping around the world is very unlikely. Both the United States and Russia have made certain through technical means that an accidental thermonuclear war cannot happen. Preparations to start such a war would be time-consuming and would be easily detected. Such a move would be irrational even in the superheated atmosphere of brinksmanship.
Donald Trump might be on his way to his first foreign trip as president, but that hasn't stopped the news from breaking in the United States in regards to the growing Russian scandal. Over the last 48 hours, bombshell after bombshell has rocked the White House, putting further pressure on the president and his team to construct a plausible defense, though it doesn't appear to be winning over many critics.

Takei on Trump

Whether Donald Trump likes it or not, the mainstream media has continued to focus on what role Russia played in the election and how that pertains to the president.

Over the last two weeks, the controversy surrounding Russian interference in the election has heated up, with new evidence suggesting collusion between the Kremlin and the former host of "The Apprentice." When Trump decided to fire James Comey as director of the FBI last week, his decision instantly raised red flags. Comey had been leading the investigation into Russia and their possible link to the president, prompting critics to hit back at Trump for firing the man investigating him. On Friday, the New York Times revealed that Trump labeled Comey a "nut job" during a private meeting with Russian officials last week, doubling down on a Washington Post story that uncovered that the president shared classified information with those same individuals.

Adding even more fuel to the fire, the latest story to break notes that a White House official is now being investigated as a "person of interest" in the Russian probe, which many have speculated to be Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner, though no confirmation has yet been made. Responding to the news in series of blistering fact-checking tweets on May 19 was actor George Takei.

First on CNN: Russian officials bragged they could use Michael Flynn to influence Donald Trump, sources say https://t.co/9UrQA2mwNN pic.twitter.com/xLYtJBhR5M  CNN (@CNN) May 20, 2017

Taking to Twitter on Friday was George Takei and the former "Star Trek" actor didn't hold back his thoughts on the current news of the day. "Gotta hand it to Trump.

Few could manage to disclose classified material to the Russians and admit to obstruction of justice in one meeting," Takei tweeted out. "Trump actually told the Russians last week regarding Comey's firing: 'I faced great pressure because of Russia. That's taken off.' SMH," he continued.

Trump actually told the Russians last week regarding Comey's firing: "I faced great pressure because of Russia. That's taken off." SMH  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 19, 2017

Gotta hand it to Trump. Few could manage to disclose classified material to the Russians and admit to obstruction of justice in one meeting.  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 19, 2017

Takei the fact-checker

"Let's not forget how complicit Pence is.

He flat out denied there had been ANY contacts between the Trump campaign and the Russians. LIES," George Takei continued. "He flat out asserted the firing of James Comey was based on the recommendation of the Deputy AG, something Trump and the AG now deny. LIES," he noted.

He flat out denied he had ever heard that Mike Flynn was being paid as a foreign agent by Turkey. LIES.  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 19, 2017

"He flat out denied he had ever heard that Mike Flynn was being paid as a foreign agent by Turkey. LIES," George Takei added in yet another fact-checking tweet. "He denied knowing that Flynn was under investigation by the FBI, even though the Trump transition team which he headed was told.

LIES," he went on to write in a follow up tweet.

He flat out asserted the firing of James Comey was based on the recommendation of the Deputy AG, something Trump and the AG now deny. LIES.  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 19, 2017

He flat out asserted the firing of James Comey was based on the recommendation of the Deputy AG, something Trump and the AG now deny. LIES.  George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) May 19, 2017

"He flat out asserted that Comey's firing had nothing to do with the Russia investigation, but Trump admitted it was why he fired him. LIES," George Takei posted in his final tweet on the matter as of press time. While Donald Trump and his team do their best to defend against the growing allegations against them, it appears as if the critics of the commander in chief are not going to back down anytime soon.
Brad Pitt may have had the best Father's Day celebration so far when his and Angelina Jolie's kids came to visit him recently. Apparently, it was Pitt's biggest present for Father's Day despite the fact that his children had to leave Los Angeles last weekend. Some of his children were seen dropping off his house in Los Angeles on Saturday. Later in the day, their children were picked up and immediately driven to the house of Jolie. In addition, Jolie and kids flew all the way to Ethiopia where they spent their weekend.

Medical and Educational facility

Zahara, Jolie and Pitt's daughter, was born in Ethiopia. To recall, it is also the same place where Jolie had her medical and educational facility that was named after her daughter. Zahara Children's Center was established by the Hollywood actress in order to help and treat children who were sick with tuberculosis and HIV. Back in 2015, Jolie established such facility and is continuously run by the Global Health Committee. As they head to Ethiopia, the children's center is part of the schedule that they will attend to.

Temporary custody agreement

To recall, Pitt and Jolie had their divorce back in September 2016. Since then, both parties agreed to have equal custody of their children.

Apart from that, Pitt and Jolie also agreed to co-parent their kids. Hence, it doesn't come as much of a surprise when Pitt's children came to visit him for Father's Day.

The former couple once had their court battle over children's custody; however, they came to a point to agree with a temporary custody for their children. The agreement states that all their children will be kept under Jolie's care; however, Pitt will also have his chance for therapeutic visitations.

Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne, and Knox are the lovely children of the popular couple. Previous reports also revealed that they had agreed to stop the court battle for the sake of their children. Meanwhile, much of their focus is the welfare of their kids and to co-parent them in the best way they can.

Moreover, as Jolie and kids flew to Ethiopia, Pitt is reportedly working on their former property which is right now, the current bachelor pad of the actor.

The actor is currently working for his new own home while Jolie is also looking for a new pad where she can house all her children.

It is known that the Hollywood actress just recently bought a historic estate named Cecil B. DeMille for $24.5 million. Meanwhile, Jolie's new property is just stone throw away from Pitt's residence. Amid all the divorce issues circulating online, Pitt has been opened about working things out with Jolie for the sake of their children.
Three people were killed and nine were injured when a bomb exploded at a mall in colombia Saturday evening. The bomb exploded at 5:00 p.m. in the second-floor women's restroom of a popular Bogota Shopping Mall, Centro Andino. It was placed inside the toilet bowl, police reported.

Bogota Mayor Enrique Penalosa denounced the bombing on Twitter as a "cowardly Terrorist Attack."

"The commercial center was packed with people buying gifts ahead of Father's Day celebrations on Sunday," Reuters reported.

Victims

Penalosa identified one of the deceased as 23 year old Julie Huynh from France.

She had been in Colombia for the past six months volunteering at a school in a low income neighbor. Her mother was in Bogota too, according to the Washington Post, and they had planned on returning to France within the coming days.

The two other victims died at the hospital. Both were women, according to Reuters.

Terrorist group

The National Liberation Army, known as ELN, was assumed to be responsible. They denied culpability and denounced the attack on Twitter.

ELN has carried out recent attacks in Bogota. It has also been involved in several peace talks with the Colombian government to stop the violence.

The mall is thought to be a difficult target, according to The Washington Post. Due to the attacks and security concerns, Centro Andino has bomb-sniffing dogs to screen cars entering the parking garage and security guards present throughout the mall.

In Colombia, ELN is the second-largest leftist guerrilla group behind the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia, or FARC.

ELN began as a nationalist movement, and "now appears more focused on kidnapping, extortion and attacks on economic infrastructure" according to Insight Crime. The group is believed to have 2,500 soldiers, almost half of what its forces were in 1990s.

"Authorities said there have been threats of attacks in Bogota by the so-called Gulf Clan," Reuters reported.

The Gulf Clan is "made up of former mid-level paramilitary leaders," according to Insight Crime. It is a right-wing group of drug traffickers with nearly 2,000 soldiers. In 2013, it was the last criminal gang to have a national presence in Colombia.

It was rumored in 2015 that the Gulf Clan was also negotiating a peace deal with the government.

Current known facts
Top political adviser looks beyond setbacks to 'peaceful development'

China's top political adviser Yu Zhengsheng has stressed the mainland's commitment to promoting people-to-people exchanges as well as economic and social development across the Taiwan Straits despite setbacks during the past year.

"The peaceful development of cross-Straits relations is facing new risks and challenges after being severely undermined last year. However, the communications between the two sides have reached a new historical level," said Yu, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference at the Ninth Straits Forum held in Xiamen, Fujian province, on Sunday.

He said the Chinese mainland's determination to make efforts that would benefit people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits remains unchanged.

More than 20 policies and arrangements rolled out recently to facilitate education and employment of Taiwan residents in mainland cities, including improved financial and social security services.

The mainland and Taiwan have achieved peaceful and sound development of their relationship since 2008 based on sticking to the 1992 Consensus and opposing "Taiwan independence". But the relationship changed on May 20 last year when the Democratic Progressive Party denied the 1992 Consensus.

Yu said "Taiwan independence" is the biggest threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. It will damage the fundamental interests of the people of both sides.

Yu called on residents across the straits to resolutely oppose any activity that splits the country, emphasizing that adherence to the political foundation of the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China policy, and peaceful development of cross-Straits relations are required for further integration.

Hung Hsiu-chu, chairwoman of the Taiwan-based Kuomintang political party, also made a speech at the forum, saying that peace and cooperation across the straits are unswerving goals for Chinese people and the dream of rejuvenating the Chinese nation will not be forgotten.

The Ninth Straits Forum, the largest platform for people-to-people exchanges between the two sides, kicked off in East China's Fujian province on Saturday and will last a week. Composed of 21 major events, it focuses on youth exchanges and grassroots communications, as well as economic and trade communications. More than 8,000 delegates from Taiwan are expected to take part in the forum.

This is the 30th year since the two sides began people-to-people exchanges.

Last year, Taiwan residents made 5.7 million visits to the mainland, according to the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office.

Yin Cunyi, a professor at the Institute of Taiwan Studies of Tsinghua University, said the political relations between the two sides are nearly "frozen". "In contrast, the exchanges between the two peoples have increased," he added.

Hsu Jung-hsiao, 76, a retiree from Taiwan who attended the forum, said he saw more participants from Taiwan at the forum compared with last year's and more programs are available this year.

"I've visited my hometown in Yancheng, Jiangsu province, every year in the past decade. My two sons are working in the mainland now because its economic development is more promising," he said.

"I don't have a shred of doubt in the peaceful reunification of the two sides eventually despite recent setbacks. This is destined because of the demand of exchanges between the two peoples," he added.

zhang_yi@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 06/19/2017 page1)
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US President Donald Trump on Friday tightened up restrictions on US citizens traveling to Cuba, backtracking some of the progress made by his predecessor Barack Obama.

However, the US embassy in Havana will remain open and commercial flights from the US started last year will continue.

"Effective immediately, I am canceling the last administration's completely one-sided deal with Cuba," Trump said to a group of mostly Cuban Americans in Miami.

"Easing of restrictions on travel and trade does not help the Cuban people. They only enrich the Cuban regime," Trump said.

The move has been seen as an effort by Trump to keep his campaign promise last fall to the Cuban Americans in south Florida, who have long held an anti-Cuban government attitude. Most US presidential candidates dared not to challenge the group for fear of losing critical votes in the swing state of Florida.

The US policy on Cuba has been a failure, as admitted even by Obama himself after he decided to normalize US diplomatic relations with Cuba in 2015.

Using his administrative power to push for more engagement between the two countries, Obama was still unable to lift the decades long embargo on Cuba due to opposition from the Republican-controlled Congress.

The embargo, which Cubans call a blockade, has been condemned by the international community every year for causing suffering among Cuban people, especially women and children.

For the first time last October, the US and Israel abstained at the United Nations General Assembly vote calling for lifting of the embargo. A total of 191 countries voted in favor.

While Obama's much-delayed rapprochement with Cuba was applauded by the global community and indeed many people in the US, the rollback by Trump reflects his bid to restore a failed US policy, a Cold War legacy.

People in the US have expressed support for the recent thaw in US-Cuba relations, according to a Pew Center survey last December. A total of 75 percent approve the 2015 decision to re-establish US relations with Cuba, while 73 percent favor ending the long-standing US trade embargo against Cuba, the survey revealed.

This shows that the move taken by Trump is simply against the will of most people in the US.

To many, it is also laughable when Trump talks about human rights conditions in Cuba as a major reason for his decision.

"We will not lift sanctions on the Cuban regime until all political prisoners are freed, freedoms of assembly and expression are respected, all political parties are legalized and free and internationally supervised elections are scheduled," Trump said on Friday.

It was probably the first time for Trump to pose himself as a human rights champion. But he was soon challenged. "What about Saudi Arabia?" read a headline in the Los Angeles Times, referring to Trump's trip to the Middle East nation in May during his first foreign trip.

According to the New York-based Human Rights Watch, Trump has plenty of human rights issues to address at home. The group's latest report points out that many US laws and practices, particularly in the areas of criminal and juvenile justice, immigration and national security, violate internationally recognized human rights.

Some 2.3 million people are behind bars in the US, the largest reported incarcerated population in the world. Every day, about 50,000 children in the US are held in correctional facilities, one of the highest rates of juvenile detention in the world, according to the report.

The US' Guantanamo detention center, ironically on Cuban soil, still serves as a reminder of people imprisoned without due process.

During my three trips to the island nation, I have witnessed positive signs of economic reforms, with growing private businesses, opening of special economic zones and a flourishing tourist trade.

There is no doubt that if the US wants to influence Cuba, the best policy is to engage more with Cuba, not disengage.

In 2016, an estimated 500,000 to 600,000 Americans visited Cuba, a hefty jump from previous years. However, Trump's tightening of travel restrictions is likely to halt that growth.

It is also wrong for some to criticize Trump's rollback as an opportunity for China and Russia to increase influence in Cuba. No. China has long supported improved relations between US and Cuba. China has been a strong voice calling for lifting the inhumane US embargo.

Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com.
US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross on Monday welcomes participants to the 2017 SelectUSA Summit held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland, including what he said an oversize of Chinese delegation of 155 people.

Ross said there is no better time to invest in the US than today, praising President Donald Trumps pro-economic growth policy.

Chinese investment in acquisitions, new operations, and expansions in the US grew to $46 billion in 2016, more than three times the previous record in 2015, according to a report released in April by the Rhodium Group and the National Committee on US-China Relations.
US President Donald Trump on Friday tightened up restrictions on US citizens travelling to Cuba, backtracking some of the progress made by his predecessor Barack Obama.

However, the US embassy in Havana will remain open and commercial flights from the US started last year will continue.

"Effective immediately, I am canceling the last administration's completely one-sided deal with Cuba," Trump said to a group of mostly Cuban Americans in Miami.

"Easing of restrictions on travel and trade does not help the Cuban people. They only enrich the Cuban regime," Trump said.

The move has been seen as an effort by Trump to keep his campaign promise last fall to the Cuban Americans in south Florida, who have long held an anti-Cuban government attitude. Most US presidential candidates dared not to challenge the group for fear of losing critical votes in the swing state of Florida.

The US policy on Cuba has been a failure, as admitted even by Obama himself after he decided to normalize US diplomatic relations with Cuba in 2015.

Using his administrative power to push for more engagement between the two countries, Obama was still unable to lift the decades long embargo on Cuba due to opposition from the Republican-controlled Congress.

The embargo, which Cubans call a blockade, has been condemned by the international community every year for causing suffering among Cuban people, especially women and children.

For the first time last October, the US and Israel abstained at the United Nations General Assembly vote calling for lifting of the embargo. A total of 191 countries voted in favor.

While Obama's much-delayed rapprochement with Cuba was applauded by the global community and indeed many people in the US, the rollback by Trump reflects his bid to restore a failed US policy, a Cold War legacy.

People in the US have expressed support for the recent thaw in US-Cuba relations, according to a Pew Center survey last December. A total of 75 percent approve the 2015 decision to re-establish US relations with Cuba, while 73 percent favor ending the long-standing US trade embargo against Cuba, the survey revealed.

This shows that the move taken by Trump is simply against the will of most people in the US.

To many, it is also laughable when Trump talks about human rights conditions in Cuba as a major reason for his decision.

"We will not lift sanctions on the Cuban regime until all political prisoners are freed, freedoms of assembly and expression are respected, all political parties are legalized and free and internationally supervised elections are scheduled," Trump said on Friday.

It was probably the first time for Trump to pose himself as a human rights champion. But he was soon challenged. "What about Saudi Arabia," read a headline in the Los Angeles Times, referring to Trump's trip to the Middle East nation in May during his first foreign trip.

According to the New York-based Human Rights Watch, Trump has plenty of human rights issues to address at home. The group's latest report points out that many US laws and practices, particularly in the areas of criminal and juvenile justice, immigration and national security, violate internationally recognized human rights.

Some 2.3 million people are behind bars in the US, the largest reported incarcerated population in the world. Every day, about 50,000 children in the US are held in correctional facilities, one of the highest rates of juvenile detention in the world, according to the report.

The US' Guantanamo detention center, ironically on Cuban soil, still serves as a reminder of people imprisoned without due process.

During my three trips to the island nation, I have witnessed positive signs of economic reforms, with growing private businesses, opening of special economic zones and a flourishing tourist trade.

There is no doubt that if the US wants to influence Cuba, the best policy is to engage more with Cuba, not disengage.

In 2016, an estimated 500,000 to 600,000 Americans visited Cuba, a hefty jump from previous years. However, Trump's tightening of travel restrictions is likely to halt that growth.

It is also wrong for some to criticize Trump's rollback as an opportunity for China and Russia to increase influence in Cuba. No. China has long supported improved relations between US and Cuba. China has been a strong voice calling for lifting the inhuman US embargo.

Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com.
Twenty-two students from Los Angeles County and the "Discover China" program organizers and sponsors celebrate the upcoming trip at an event last week in Los Angeles. Provided to China Daily

Twenty-two students from Los Angeles County will head to China soon on a "discover" trip sponsored by Chinese companies.

Selected from more than 140,000 members of the Los Angeles County Alliance for Boys & Girls Clubs, the 22 "Youth of the Year" nominees will embark on the 10-day trip on June 28.

They will go to three Chinese cities  Xiamen, Shenzhen and Shanghai, where they will visit Chinese enterprises, including BYD, Coolpad and the Shanghai Aircraft Design and Research Institute, and talk with the executives and interact with local Chinese students.

As their annual community program, China General Chamber of Commerce - Los Angeles (CGCC-LA) organized the "Discover China" trip in the hope of providing the local youth with a transformative cultural experience and US-China career opportunities and insights.

Raven Wolfgang Leos, one of the Youth of Year nominees, said that for most of them the China trip was beyond the realm of possibility.

"This trip presents an opportunity to experience world travel, illuminate the Chinese culture, work to understand the importance of a global economy and how it impacts each of us and where we can have an impact," said Leos, from the East Los Angeles Boys and Girls Club.

He said it will be their responsibility to bring everything they learn back to the communities and share these experiences so others can open their minds to go beyond the boundaries of their own neighborhood.

"This is a beautiful way of expanding horizons at a time it seems they are being cut short," he said.

Every year in the past five years, CGCC-LA has brought together Chinese companies to give back and support the communities. The organization serves hundreds of Chinese companies that are investing and doing business in the greater Los Angeles region.

"Children are the world's most valuable assets, and we value the opportunity to provide them with this unique experience on international culture and US-China cross-border career insights, which we believe will be transformative and impactful," said Sherman Zhang, chairman of CGCC-LA and president of AVIC International USA.

The sponsors include Coolpad, Xiamen Airlines, BYD Motors, International Vitamin Corporation, COMAC America, North American Representative Office of Shenzhen and Shanghai Foreign Investment Development Board Los Angeles Office.

The students will fly to Xiamen from Los Angeles on Xiamen Airlines' first direct flight between the two cities on June 28. The airline company will also sponsor all of their air travel during the trip.

"The sponsors of this China Trip are not only taking a chance on a group of youth that they hardly know, but they are also giving us the priceless gift of perspective," said Margo Akopov, nominee of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Burbank & Greater East Valley.

"I personally believe that perspective is the driving force behind collaborative efforts and successful innovation. With perspective, the knowledge and experience that we can take away from this trip is endless," said Akopov.

With the pervasiveness of technology, it's critical that today's youth is exposed to and learns about technology early on, said Brandy Kang, CEO of Coolpad Americas, one of the sponsors.

"The more we invest into today's youth, the brighter the future will be for all of us," said Kang. "Coolpad believes that by putting together a great intercultural exploration trip, they gain hands-on experience and expand their creative minds of what could be."
VIENTIANE - Chinese Embassy in Laos on Sunday issued a safety warning after a Chinese citizen was shot dead in Lao's central Xaysomboun province.

According to the embassy, a Chinese citizen was shot dead by unidentified persons on Friday in Xaysomboun province, some 130 km northeast of Lao capital Vientiane.

The Lao side is currently investigating the incident, the embassy said.

The Chinese embassy has asked the Lao side to break the case as soon as possible, punish the assailants while taking effective measures to ensure safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Laos.

In its safety warning, the embassy reminds Chinese citizens and institutions in Laos to further improve safety awareness and strengthen security precautions. In case of emergency, Chinese citizens should immediately report to Lao police, and contact the Chinese embassy and consulate in Laos, it said.

Previously on March 1, 2016, a Chinese company in the northern Luang Prabang province was attacked by an unidentified armed group, leaving one Chinese citizen dead and three others injured.

On Jan. 24, 2016, an attack by an unidentified group in Xaysomboun province killed two Chinese people and injured one.

The safety warning by Chinese Embassy in Laos is effective for six months until Dec 18, 2017.
Could Wisconsin, Michigan, or Pennsylvania become the home of a Foxconn plant that might employ 50,000 to make parts for Apple iPhones?

It's been reported that Wisconsin is in talks with Foxconn to build a $7 billion display-making plant, months after the news that the CEO of Foxconn had met with a representative of Pennsylvania's economic development agency to potentially invest in the state. Michigan is also said to be pursuing the deal.

Representatives from Wisconsin's and Michigan's economic development offices declined to comment on the deal, saying that they do not discuss any pending or potential opportunities. A representative from Pennsylvania did not respond by deadline.

US President Donald Trump alluded to the potential Foxconn investment in Wisconsin during a visit to Milwaukee on Tuesday.

"We have a lot of companies moving into the United States," he said. "We're negotiating with a lot of companies. Just backstage we were negotiating with a major, major incredible manufacturer of phones and computers and televisions, and I think they're going to give the governor a very happy surprise."

Foxconn, officially called Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd with headquarters in Taipei, Taiwan, is the world's largest contract device maker and is most known for its manufacturing work for Apple. Its plants assemble iPhones and other devices for Apple.

A Foxconn spokesperson said the company is "exploring a potential investment that would represent a major expansion" of its current US operations, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

"We are engaged in discussions with officials at various levels of government regarding our ongoing plans to significantly increase our investments in the US. Our company is conducting an evaluation of the conditions and potential locations for establishing manufacturing facilities in the US," the person said.

Rumors about a US Foxconn plant began circulating as early as last November, when it was reported that Apple asked suppliers to look into producing the company's smartphones in the US.

CEO Terry Gou downplayed the request, telling reporters in January that a US plant is "not a promise" but a "wish". He also expressed concern over the skills of the US workforce, and said that he wanted guarantees of inexpensive land and electricity before considering the investment.

Foxconn employs more than a million people in China, making electronic devices for brands like Amazon, Google, Dell, Sony, and Nintendo. It produces iPads and Macs for Apple in a manufacturing facility in Shenzhen.

The company reported sales of $137 billion in 2016, a 2.8 percent decrease compared to the year before, which has been attributed to Apple's fall in sales.

amyhe@chinadailyusa.com
China's decision to approve the use of two new varieties of genetically modified crops may signal a willingness to allow US agricultural companies to market biotech seeds on the mainland.

Last week's move to accept genetically engineered corn and soybean varieties developed by Dow Chemical Co and Monsanto Co comes after China agreed in May to accelerate a review of several US seed varieties as part of a trade pact with the Trump administration.

"Receiving approval in China is important as it is a major importer of agricultural commodities from the US, and the seed companies generally do not release new varieties until they have been approved for major export markets," Kent Bradford, a professor and director of the Seed Biotechnology Center at the University of California Davis, wrote in an email on June 16.

Wu Laping, a professor of the College of Economic and Management at China Agricultural University, said that the updated approvals are based on the mutual benefits that the two sides stand to gain. "Not only will it meet China's increasing domestic grain demand, but also contribute to growth in the US," he said.

China has been wary of genetically modified (GM) crops and seeds, citing safety concerns. Bradford said that stance seems to be changing.

"I think a major motivating factor is that these varieties are providing performance and traits that will be valuable to China's farmers," he added.

Bradford also said that China National Chemical Corp's purchase of Swiss concern Syngenta AG, which produces genetically modified seeds for corn, may be behind the move.

"The purchase of Syngenta by ChemChina I think will lead to greater acceptance of GMO crops by the Chinese government," Bradford said. "I think that part of the delay to date has been to wait until Chinese-owned seed companies were able to compete internationally before opening their internal market more.

"China has done a huge amount of internal research on GM crops, and there are many benefits that could come to farmers and consumers there if those products are allowed to be sold," Bradford said.

A Bloomberg report in May said China would carry out a nationwide poll to test the public's acceptance of genetically modified food.

Jing Shuiyu contributed to this report.

paulwelitzkin@chinadailyusa.com
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HA NOI  UPC Renewables Group and UKs Kimin Power Company have reported on the feasibility of the wind power projects in the southern province of Bac Lieu that the two companies are planning to invest in.

It was part of the agenda of the meetings between the two investors and leaders of Bac Lieu Province on Sunday.

At the first meeting with UPC Renewables, the companys representative presented a detailed report on the establishment and operation capability of UPC, a company specialising in renewable energy.

So far, the company has invested more than US$3 billion globally and installed projects with total capacity of 2,000MW.

In Bac Lieu, UPC plans to invest in a plant in Vinh Loi District with total capacity of 200MW, expected to be in two phases -- phase 1 with 50MW and phase 2 with 150MW.

UPC expressed its desire to introduce a project on pre-feasibility study of wind power onshore, to seek investment licence in the province.

If the province approves UPCs investment plan, the company will purchase the equipment within a period of six months, subsequently install the equipment in three months and then run the operation trial test for one month.

UPC has also collected statistics of wind power and estimated power output of the plant, while forecasting the difficulties encountered during implementation, construction and proposing solutions to deal with them.

Along with deploying the project, UPC will seek permission to expand the provinces 220kV transformer station. Previously, the company also studied on the ways of transporting equipment and found it capable of transporting equipment safely.

Speaking at the meeting, chairman of Bac Lieu Province's Peoples Committee Duong Thanh Trung said that if the project is successfully implemented, it will open up new prospects in the field of renewable energy, not only in Bac Lieu, but also in the entire Mekong Delta region and the whole country. Therefore, the province would create the most favourable conditions for the project to be implemented soon, he added.

The province also highly appreciated the preparation of UPC investors for this project, Trung noted.

On the same day, the provinces leaders held a meeting with UKs Kimin Power Company.

Kimin Powers representative said the company has witnessed renewable energy activities in Viet Nam for three years and invested in solar power in some central provinces.

The corporation is seeking investment opportunities in Bac Lieu, which has the potential to produce wind and solar power with estimated capacity of 500MW.

The chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee said Bac Lieu has great potential for wind power. The province's wind power potential is estimated to reach up to 7,000MW by the Government.

For solar power as well, Bac Lieu is very ideal, due to sufficient sunlight and no storms and floods, making it suitable for solar power investment combined with aquaculture.  VNS
Customers borrow credit loans at a branch of Eximbank.  Photo chinhphu.vn

Nguyen Thi Hong, deputy governor of the State Bank of Viet Nam, said as of May end bank credit had grown at 6.58 per cent in the year-to-date, an eight-year high.

The rate in the same period had been 5 per cent and 4.5 per cent in 2016 and 2015.

Many lenders such as ACB, Vietcombank, and LienVietPostBank have in fact reported growth rates of 8.3 per cent to 11 per cent.

Explaining the steep growth, market observers said in recent months domestic enterprises credit demand might have been higher since their production and trading activities have gradually picked up pace after major festivals, including Tet.

Circular No 39/2016/TT-NHNN which took effect in March, is one of the main reasons, they said.

It allows credit institutions, including banks, to reschedule debts based on a careful assessment of whether a customer has the capacity to fully repay the loan principal and /or interest within the rescheduled period.

Another important factor is the strong recovery by the real estate and stock markets.

What needs mentioning is that analysts are not happy at the strong credit growth: many are in fact concerned.

Pointing to the fact that economic growth this year has been lower than last year  though, technically, in an inefficient economy like Viet Nam, higher investment usually translates into higher growth  into hot sectors like real estate and stocks.

According to the SBV branch in HCM City, loans outstanding by the real estate sector at the end of March was over VN164 trillion (over US$7.22 billion), accounting for 10.88 per cent of total credit and 19.29 per cent of long- and medium-term loans. It had risen by 4 per cent from the end of 2016.

According to the Viet Nam Real Estate Association, investment in the real estate market rose by 43.8 per cent year-on-year in the first five months.

In recent years banks have also invested large amounts in build-operate-transfer (BOT) transport projects, accounting in fact for 85-90 per cent of the projects investment.

The Ministry of Transport also said that in the period of 2000 and June 2016, 45 transport projects that were put into operation had taken bank loans worth VN94.17 trillion, which made up 85.3 per cent of their total investment.

The stock market has also seen a significant injection of money this year.

For instance, in May cash pumped into the market increased to VN4 trillion ($176.2 million) a week, and even VN6 trillion ($264.32 million) on occasions, up from an average of VN2-3 trillion in the past.

Hong however estimated that bank lending in the first five months was focused on industries prioritised by the Government such as agriculture, exports, supporting industries, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and technology.

Besides controlling the lending to the real estate sector, the central bank has also instructed credit institutions to closely monitor loans to build-transfer (BT) and BOT projects, she said.

Though the bank said the credit flows have been well targeted, the rapid expansion of credit in the context of the high bad debt levels has made experts uneasy.

They said credit growth has shot up though policy rates have remained unchanged.

This expansion of credit  at a much higher rate than the nominal GDP growth rate  provides some cause for concern, particularly since Viet Nams credit-to-GDP ratio of around 120 per cent in December 2016 was already high and the overhang of past non-performing loans has not been fully resolved.

Analysts also warned of the danger of the economy becoming capital-intensive if the policy of achieving economic growth on the back of credit continues.

To lessen the risk, they said it is necessary to control credit flows as well as continue with the shifting away from the current capital- and natural resources- intensive GDP structure to manufacturing and trading.

Foreign drug firms keen on VN

In February US drug company Abbott Viet Nam said it would license Domesco Medical Import  Export Joint Stock Corporation Vietnam for production of 28 products in Viet Nam including 17 common and 11 cancer drugs.

Abbott will help Domesco build a factory in ong Thap, provide technological support and consultancy as well as training, and help produce and trade the drugs in Viet Nam.

In September the US giant will send specialists to the ong Thap plant to help improve the local firms capacity.

It has a 51.69 per cent stake in Domesco and its main focus is to build a non-batalactam plant to EU-GMP standards.

In August 2016 Abbott completed the acquisition of Glomed Pharmaceutical Company limited (Glomed), a leading Vietnamese drug manufacturer.

Through this, Abbott became one of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies (according to IMS data report Q2 2016) in Viet Nam.

In addition to obtaining two manufacturing facilities in Binh Duong Province, Abbott also gains a portfolio of medicines that is well aligned with its current pharmaceutical therapeutic areas of focus: anti-infective medicines, gastroenterology, cardiovascular, pain management, respiratory, and womens health as well as over-the-counter products.

In September 2016 Frances Sanofi also signed an agreement to extend and strengthen its partnership with Vinapharm. The new strategic partnership covers all locally manufactured medicines marketed by Sanofi in Viet Nam and products exported to countries in the Asian region.

The agreement is expected to take effect by year-end subject to approval.

Vinapharm will invest in Sanofi Vietnam Shareholding Company, which owns a new, good manufacturing practices-certified facility.

The US$75 million plant will not only produce 150 million batches of drugs per year but also be a centre of excellence in Asia. It constitutes Sanofis largest investment in any ASEAN member country to date.

Last July Japans Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings, part of the Taisho Holdings Group, completed necessary procedures to buy a 24.5 per cent stake in the Hau Giang Pharmeuctical Company.

Analysts attributed the surge in mergers and acquisitions in the pharmaceutical industry to the industrys great potential.

The Vietnamese pharmaceutical market is one of the fastest growing in Asia. It ranked 17th in the world with average growth of 17-20 per cent a year between 2010 and 2015.

In 2017 it is expected to be above 17 per cent.

Current domestic drug production only meets 45 per cent of demand, with the rest being imported. Consequently, the value of imports is rising by 16 per cent a year.

Many foreign companies have chosen to license Vietnamese companies or buy stakes in them to make the most of the local markets advantages, which also include low labour costs.

Other experts also point to the new law on pharmacy which took effect in January this year to explain the industrys attractiveness.

The Law on Pharmacy clearly prioritises the purchase of domestically produced drugs meeting good manufacturing practice standards, including generics, biosimilars and herbal and traditional medicines.

Moreover, the new law underlines the preferential treatment for domestically produced drugs over imported drugs first indicated by the Law on Procurement.

Thus, when domestically produced drugs are available satisfying the Ministry of Healths requirements on treatment, price, and supply, suppliers bidding for a tender cannot offer imported drugs.

Such prioritisation has become a barrier for foreign companies, including multinationals, and distributors, and so they need domestic partners to represent them.

Many seek to buy Vietnamese drug companies under the M&A form with good infrastructure, large market share and good manufacturing capacity or which get priority in bids.

The increasing occurrence of M&A deals is also a great opportunity for domestic pharmaceutical businesses to transform and take the initiative in acquiring resources to not only serve the local market but also export.

According to industry insiders, the M&A deals result in mutual benefit.

Vietnamese authorities are thus encouraging foreign businesses to buy shares in local businesses and take advantage of their products and distribution channels.  VNS
A member of the Binh Thuan-based Hoa Thanh Agricultural Service Cooperative guides other farmers in effective pesticide use.  VNA/VNS Photo Quang Quyet

HA NOI  Viet Nams plant protection product market is valued at US$1 billion a year, but the country is still heavily dependent on imports.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade estimated that in the first five months of the year, Viet Nam imported $400 million worth of pesticides and materials, a 41 per cent year-on-year increase. In May alone, the import value was $98 million.

The ministry said 53 per cent of the total imports were from China, and the rest from Thailand, South Korea, India and Germany.

Between 2012 and 2013, imports of pesticides surged from 55,000 tonnes to 112,000 tonnes. Last year, the amount was 100,000 tonnes and this figure shows no sign of abating.

Hoang Trung, director of the ministrys Plant Protection Department, said in the past five years, Viet Nam annually spent around $500 million to import pesticides and materials from China. Of the total imports, 48 per cent were herbicides (19,000 tonnes), insecticides accounted for 32 per cent (16,400 tonnes) and growth regulators about 900 tonnes.

Trung said 99 per cent of the pesticides in Viet Nam were imported, excluding some domestically produced biological drugs and herbs.

Department data shows about 2,000 plant protection products are used in Viet Nam, traded by more than 200 businesses. Nearly 100 processing plants meet half of the total demand for products with a capacity of 30,000 tonnes to 40,000 tonnes a year. Viet Nam also has about 30,000 agents providing plant protection products.

Up to 40 per cent of some 100,000 tonnes of plant protection products imported into Viet Nam are bottled for export to 40 markets, which bring in a sizeable turnover. The remaining 60 per cent are used in Viet Nam.

Investment barriers

Le Thi Khanh Hoa, PR Manager of Syngenta Viet Nam Company specialising in researching and developing products, told online newspapers that it took time to produce a new plant protection product.

It often take 10 years to 12 years to research, develop and register, together with 25 years of studies in laboratories and fields, as well as assessment of effects on the environment, people and harmful organisms, to launch a new plant protection product. The spending reaches around $260 million, Hoa said.

In addition, it has been a challenge for both the Government and plant protection producers to promote the use of the products in more than 10 million small-scale farming households around the country.

Currently, counterfeit and poor quality plant protection products are being sold, affecting the health of firms and farmers, as well as the quality of agricultural products. The Government should pay more attention to this issue, and supervise and enforce strict measures to fine violators, she suggested.

The high investment and weak management have resulted in counterfeit goods flooding the market. On the other hand, the lack of policies and mechanisms to promote investment in this field has been a barrier for local producers who prefer the higher profits of imports rather than producing products themselves.

However, experts say that as the Government focuses on increasingly harmful organisms and urges local producers to improve productivity, the investment in developing plant protection products will provide opportunities for the local sector to become more active in pest management.  VNS
Shrimps being processed for export at Thong Thuan Seafood Co in the southern province of Ninh Thuan.  VNA/VNS Photo Danh Lam

HA NOI  Australia has lifted the ban it imposed in January on uncooked Vietnamese shrimp products. Vietnamese companies may resume importing raw prawns caught in Australia for processing and export them to Australia for consumption.

The decision was made after the Australias Department of Agriculture and Water Resources received written confirmation by the National Agro-Forestry-Fisheries Quality Assurance Department (NAFIQAD) under Viet Nams Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development that it can meet conditions included in the updated health certificate.

The department will be accepting permit applications for uncooked Australian wild caught prawns exported to Viet Nam for processing and re-imported into Australia from 15 June 2017, it wrote in a statement released on its website on Thursday.

The department also said its Biosecurity Import Conditions database system has been updated to reflect the new requirements.

In addition, import permit applications for Australian wild prawns processed in countries other than Viet Nam will be accepted once the competent authorities in these countries provide assurance that they meet Australias new import conditions.

This has helped lift the temporary ban made by Australia in January on shrimp exports from Asian countries, including Viet Nam, on worries about the white spot outbreak in the country.

In February, the department loosened the ban on dried prawns, shelf-stable prawn-based food products and other products caught from the exclusive economic zone of Australia as the risk of white spot virus outbreak was low on these products.

In May, Viet Nams ministries of Industry and Trade and Agriculture and Rural Development urged Australian agencies to consider lifting the ban on Vietnamese shrimp imports, reporting the damage to Viet Nams shrimp exports to Australia. According to the Viet Nam Trade Office in Australia, this is the seventh largest prawn market for Viet Nam, accounting for 3.6 per cent of Viet Nams total shrimp exports.

In 2016, Viet Nam exported US$114.6 million worth of shrimp products to Australia, of which processed shrimps made up 78 per cent of the total.

In the last five years, Viet Nam has been the biggest shrimp product supplier to Australia and demand for prawn products in the country is forecast to rise.

In addition, Australia focusses on importing products from main suppliers, a major advantage for its top shrimp providers, including Viet Nam.  VNS
The Viet Nam Securities Depository (VSD) could become the supervisor of trading on the derivatives market, along with the State Securities Commission (SSC) and the two local stock exchanges.  Photo cafef.vn

HA NOI  The Viet Nam Securities Depository (VSD) could become the supervisor of trading on the derivatives market, along with the State Securities Commission (SSC) and the two local stock exchanges.

The idea was raised during feedback being collected by the SSC for a circular that would replace Circular 13/2013/TT-BTC dated January 25, 2013 by the finance ministry on monitoring securities trading.

VSD would be able to monitor depository and clearing members to see whether they follow regulations on securities and the securities market, keep track of changes in margin lending in the accounts of investors and clearing members, and supervise investors positions in the derivatives market.

VSD would have to develop regulations on clearing and a settlement mechanism for the operation of the derivatives market, manage and monitor the amount of margin lending in the market and adjust the limit of positions to investors and clearing members.

In addition, individuals and organisations under the management of VSD will be obliged to submit reports, materials and data on settlement and clearing activities to VSD so that the agency is able to carry out its work as a supervisor.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has asked Thailands TCC Group, a large retailer, to create conditions for high-quality goods and agricultural products of Viet Nam to be sold at its supermarkets.

Receiving TCC chairman Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi in Ha Noi on Saturday, the Prime Minister recognised the groups successful business activities and tax payment of US$100 million in Viet Nam.

He expressed his hope that TCC, a famous brand in Thailand, would serve as an example for foreign investors in complying with tax regulations, especially in preventing transfer pricing and tax evasion.

PM Phuc welcomed the groups intention to do long-term investment in Viet Nam, affirming that the country is a market economy where the State ensures business freedom and provides the best possible conditions for investors, including TCC, in the win-win spirit.

For his part, chairman Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi said his group was determined to expand its retail market share in Thailand, which could be seen through the recent purchase of Big C Thailand.

The move would help TCC sell Vietnamese products, including farm produce, in Thailand, he said, noting that the firm has set up a division specialising in export activities in Viet Nam.

He added TCC was very interested in the beer business and wanted to bring Viet Nams beer brands to international markets as the country had longstanding beer brands of good quality.

The entrepreneur said he hoped the Vietnamese Government would facilitate his groups investment and business activities in the country, including the export of Vietnamese goods to Thailand.  VNS


HAI DUONG  The northern province of Hai Duong will create favourable conditions and offer preferential policies for businesses investing in high-tech agriculture, post-harvest preservation, slaughterhouse construction and production chain development, provincial authorities said.

The Red River Delta province wants to encourage investors to set up modern agricultural practices that use state-of-the-art technologies and develop high-quality, competitive products.

Nguyen Manh Hien, secretary of the provincial Party Committee, said that businesses will get support in terms of credit, land rent, infrastructure development and administrative procedures.

At an agricultural investment promotion conference held in Hai Duong on Sunday, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong suggested that the province pay attention to providing training and encouraging farmers to connect with others to form agricultural businesses.

Identifying strategic products and outlining transparent, favourable policies for investors will help the local agricultural sector to improve and progress to a new stage of development, Cuong advised.

The province has around 11,700 enterprises, but of these, only 1,600 have invested in agriculture. The total investment in local agriculture is valued at around VN15 trillion (US$658.5 million), most of it focused on farm produce processing, animal-based food products and production linkages.  VNA
ALGER, Algeria  Enterprises in Viet Nam and Algeria will explore more business and trade opportunities with each other, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Algeria Pham Quoc Tru who led a delegation from the Embassy of Viet Nam visiting Oran City, Algeria.

During the visit, from June 15 to 17, Tru introduced Algerian businesses to prestigious Vietnamese export firms, export-import regulations and potential opportunities.

Both Tru and Mouad Abed, chairman of the Oran Chamber of Commerce and Industry, talked about the potential for economic links between the two nations, and discussed ways to boost bilateral ties.

Abed said the visit was a great opportunity for Algerian firms to learn more about the Vietnamese market.

He also spoke at length about economic reforms in the country, which is focused on diversifying the economy to minimise dependence on the oil sector. Algeria is looking to develop non-petroleum sectors such as agriculture, industry, construction, tourism, information and communication technology, and renewable energy, Abed said.

On the occasion, Tru also spoke about the joint activities to be organised by both nations to celebrate the 55th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, and the 11th session of the Viet Nam-Algeria Intergovernmental Committee for economic co-operation, scheduled for September in Alger.

The two sides will urge their governments to create more favourable conditions for enterprises to bolster co-operation; to perfect legal frameworks; to spread market information; to make it easy for businesses to participate in international fairs and exhibitions; and to settle trade disputes.

The delegation also met representatives of the Algerian International Fair and Exhibition Centre. Ouaed Mohamed, director of the centre, called on Vietnamese enterprises to attend the various trade events in the city.

Tru said the embassy would send a list of international fairs held in Viet Nam to the centre, and pledged to facilitate Vietnamese and Algerian enterprises attendance at fairs and exhibitions in the two countries.  VNS
Thuy Hang

HA NOI  The latest show by theatre director Viet Tu, performed on a 1.5 hectare lake, has broken new ground in more ways than one.

For one, it has humans perform roles played by puppets in traditional water puppetry shows.

Then, it uses actual farmers who till the fields, whose life is depicted by the art of water puppetry, to play the roles.

The play is a vivid cultural exploration of wet rice cultivation, which has not just fed people, but also created the Red River civilisation of Viet people.

Titled Thuo Ay Xu oai or The Quintessence of Tonkin, the one-hour play amazed audiences when it was staged on a 1.5ha lake in Ha Nois Sai Son Commune.

The commune is located in Ha Nois suburban district of Quoc Oai, called Xu oai in the old days.

Tu said the play was inspired by Viet Nams water puppetry.

Vietnamese water puppetry is very well known. Almost every foreign tourist coming to Viet Nam has to see a show. However, I didnt want to create something similar to what exists. Instead, in my show, the humans perform and replace the characters of the puppets.

Tu has a reputation for doing things differently.

His Four Palaces, an artistic interpretation of hau ong, a traditional ritual in which a medium is possessed by several deities, was highly acclaimed by both domestic and foreign audiences when it was released at the end of 2015.

For his latest play, 140 locals, farmers and residents of the a Phuc Village in Sai Son Commune, have become performers.

During the day, they are farmers working in their fields, and in the night, they become different characters in the show.

I was very moved, and highly appreciate the effort theyve put in to rehearse the play for almost on year.

The show has many lively scenes that show the daily life of farmers, including tilling the soil and sowing rice. Herdsman play the flute, children fly kites or and real ducks swimming in the lake. Bamboo planted by the lake adds to the authenticity that The Quintessence of Tonkin tries to achieve.

The audience has been amazed with the thuy inh (pavilion on water), which is a life-size replica of the one built during the Ly Dynasty (1010 - 1225) on the villages Long Chieu Pond.

The villages thuy inh is the place where water puppetry is performed. Monk and zen master Tu ao Hanh (1072-1116), who spent his life at the Thay Pagoda in the village, is considered the ancestor of this art form. Thats why I want to bring this idea to the show, Tu said, explaining why he decided to create a 10-tonne replica of thuy inh.

Based on several famous water puppetry acts, the show opens with the Teu Giao au (The Prelude of Teu). Local life in Xu oai is reproduced on the stage with puppetry acts like uoi Cao Bat Vit (Expell Fox and Catch Duck), Ngu Ong (Fisherman), Chim Loan Phuong (The Phoenix).

In between the puppet scenes, farmers perform Nang Som (Early Morning Sunlight), ao Lieu or the artistic demonstration of a village festival and vinh qui bai to  a tradition since the 15th century, which is the homecoming of a successful graduate greeted by a jubilant village. The extravagant procession and ceremony highlights the sweat and tears needed to achieve such honours.

With the stage on water, the replica of thuy inh and a modern laser lighting system creating amazing effects, The Quintessence of Tonkin is a striking visual feast.

Historian Duong Trung Quoc heaped praise on the show, saying: The producer and director have invested not only in a new stage concept, sounding and lighting system, but in real people. The decision to select local farmers to become performers has struck an emotional chord with the audience, including me.

Veteran artist uc Hung of the Thang Long Water Puppetry Theatre said that the traditional puppetry acts have been given a fresh twist by The Quintessence of Tonkin.

I got goose bumps when I watched the show. I admire director Tu because he has used a very creative way to tell the cultural story of Xu oai 1,000 years ago.

From now until September 30, The Quintessence of Tonkin will be staged from Friday to Sunday every week, starting from 7.30pm. For ticket information, please call 0904567766. Ticket promotion: Buy 1 get 1 until September 30.  VNS
LAM ONG  Around 40 artefacts that were used by royal members of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) are on display at the Lam ong provincial museum.

The objects include decorative items, utensils and kitchenware, which have elaborate carvings, are inlaid with gems or gold-plated.

The antiques are being exhibited in a heritage villa located in what used to be the Nam Phuong Queens palace complex. The palace is now in the complex of the museum.

Pham Huu Tho, director of the museum, said that these are among the 124 artefacts of the royal dynasty handed over to the museum by concerned agencies. The museums experts and scientists from the Viet Nam Museum of National History have examined the artefacts and prepared documents for each item.

The exhibition will be open to the public till the end of this summer.  VNS
President Tran ai Quang on Saturday met with former Vietnamese volunteer soldiers who helped Cambodia overthrow the genocidal Pol Pot regime and rebound from the years of its tyranny.  VNA/VNS Photo Nhan Sang

HA NOI  President Tran ai Quang on Saturday met with former Vietnamese volunteer soldiers who helped Cambodia overthrow the genocidal Pol Pot regime and rebound from the years of its tyranny.

At the meeting, the President said he was moved to meet the representatives of the former Vietnamese volunteer soldiers, who stood side by side with the Cambodian people from 1979 to 1989, helping the neighbouring country gradually revive and develop.

He praised the achievements of the Viet Nam-Cambodia Friendship Association as well as the initiative to admit the veterans to the association, a move he said would contribute to enhancing the traditional friendship and comprehensive co-operation between the two countries.

The Cambodian State and people, as well as the Vietnamese Party, State and people, appreciate the great contributions and sacrifice of the volunteer soldiers, the leader stressed.

He urged the Viet Nam-Cambodia Friendship Association to further spread information about the fine bilateral relations between the Vietnamese and Cambodian people, especially on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the two countries bilateral ties.

President Quang tasked authorities at different levels with supporting the association in organising events of the Viet NamCambodia Friendship Year 2017.

He assigned the presidential office to work with relevant agencies to ensure the welfare of the former Vietnamese volunteer soldiers who helped Cambodia. The office was also asked to compile names of individuals and units that have yet to be honoured.

He also urged organisations and businesses to help the former volunteer soldiers to visit Cambodia.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam hopes to strengthen trust with China, improving the two countries co-operation in sustaining peace and stability in the East Sea (South China Sea) based on respect for each others interests and international law, Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong told the Chinese Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Fan Chang Long, yesterday.

Senior Lieut Gen Fan Chang Long, also a Politburo member, is leading a high-level army delegation on a two-day visit to Viet Nam.

The Party Secretary welcomed Fan to Viet Nam to attend the fourth Viet Nam-China border defence friendship exchange programme scheduled to take place in both Viet Nam and China from June 20 to 22.

Stressing the importance of co-operation and exchange programmes between the two neighbours, Trong said Viet Nam and China should implement signed agreements on co-operative mechanisms, like high-level meetings and friendship exchanges between land and marine border forces and dialogues on defence policy.

Viet Nam always values the longtime neighbourly relationship and the comprehensive strategic partnership with China, he told Fan.

Fan, for his part, said China highly appreciated the relationship with Viet Nam, adding that the Chinese army, together with the Vietnamese army, was determined to carry out agreements between the two countries, contributing to the development of bilateral ties.

The East Sea dispute surfaced once again at a meeting later in the day between President Tran ai Quang and Fan.

Quang said any dispute should be handled by peaceful means, with respect for each others interest and in line with international law, in particular to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and striving for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the region.

Fan responded that the East Sea issue should be handled peacefully with great caution to avoid harming the friendship between Viet Nam and China.

Earlier on the same day, Vietnamese and Chinese high-ranking military officers reviewed the outcome of recent cooperation between the two armies and agreed on the cooperation in the time ahead to effectively implement the statement on joint vision on defence co-operation until 2025 that was signed in January 2017.

These formed part of the talks in Ha Noi between Fan and Gen Ngo Xuan Lich, Politburo member, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Minister of National Defence of Viet Nam. The two sides also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Following the talks, Lich and Fan signed a cooperation agreement on personnel training between the defence ministries of Viet Nam and China.

Economic prospects

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc also met with Fan yesterday, saying that the two countries economies have benefited from their strategic partnership.

Fan said he believed Viet Nam has the potential to further develop bilateral trade with China, which is ready to co-operate with Viet Nam to effectively carry out the regional One Belt One Road (OBOR) Initiative and the bilateral Two Corridors, One Economic Belt (TCOB) development plan.

The OBOR, dubbed the 21st century Silk Road, is an ambitious development strategy proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping focusing on connectivity and cooperation between Eurasian countries.

The TCOB, meanwhile, is expected to develop a road and express railway system between Viet Nam and China, including the Nanning-Lang Son-Ha Noi-Hai Phong-Quang Ninh, Yunnan-Lao Cai-Ha Noi and the belt road in the Gulf of Tonkin.  VNS
HA NOI  President Tran ai Quang received outgoing Israeli Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar in Ha Noi on Monday, congratulating her on a successful five-year tenure in Viet Nam during which bilateral ties recorded important strides.

The State leader said the development of the two countries relations was reflected in the recent State visit to Viet Nam by President Reuven Rivlin. Israel has also recognised Viet Nam as a market economy, received additional agricultural apprentices and increased scholarships for Vietnamese students.

The two sides are negotiating a free trade agreement and have signed a memorandum of understanding on a joint research fund, enhanced co-operation in high-tech agriculture and in the security-defence industry.

Those outcomes have turned Israel into one of Viet Nams leading partners in the Middle East, President Quang noted.

He praised the ambassadors efforts and contributions to the reinforcement of multi-faceted bilateral ties, asking her to continue to help boost the Viet Nam-Israel relationship in her future posts.

The President noted the co-operation potential, especially in science-technology, security-defence, agriculture, training and trade, voicing his hope for the continued effective implementation of commitments made by the two sides during President Rivlins visit.

For her part, Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar said during her five years working in Viet Nam she had exerted efforts to contribute to the bilateral partnership in economy, trade, culture, science-technology, education, and security-defence.

She affirmed that after returning to her homeland, she will continue to foster the two countries relations.

On this occasion, she conveyed President Rivlins invitation to President Quang to visit Israel. The President thanked her and said he accepted the invitation with pleasure.  VNS
AN GIANG  A Khong (Zero) ong shop that offers donated clothing and household appliances, most of it new and some of it secondhand, is seeing a brisk business in the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province of An Giang.

The shop was begun by the provinces Tri Ton Districts Sponsoring Association for people with disabilities, orphans and poor patients, whose aim is to reduce poverty in a sustainable manner.

Open daily, the shop is located in Nui To Commune at the Nguyen Trai -Nam Ky Khoi Nghia junction.

The association is active in the national programme to build new rural areas and civilised urban areas.

Pham Tan uc, deputy chairman of the association, said the idea for the shop came from Men Pholly, the secretary of the districts Party Committee.

All donations are from individuals and charitable organisations both inside and outside the district.

The shop has collected about seven tonnes of clothes and more than VN40 million (US$1,760) in cash donations since its opening on February 15.

Each customer is allowed no more than four items of clothing per visit, but can return a few weeks later to select more.

For other items such as televisions, bicycles, washing machines, electric fans and gas stoves, people in need must register with the shops managers, who give priority to the poorest.

Volunteers deliver the items to peoples homes and help set up TVs or other devices.

Give and receive

The shops management board and its many volunteers operate the shop. After receiving the donations, volunteers clean and arrange the goods in separate areas at the shop.

About 20-30 people visit the shop daily to choose items of clothing.

Le Van Luong, 63, a local resident, said: The shop has many essential items and most of them seem new. Some of the clothes are old, but they bring more spiritual value than material value.

To maintain long-term operations, uc said he researched various donation models that offer free clothing and other goods.

We plan to use trucks to transport goods, sort of like a mini shop, that will go through the district two to three times a week to deliver donated items to people in need, he said.

He said he hoped the shop would receive support from donors nationwide.

An Giang Province has many ethnic groups, including Hoa, Khmer and Cham, who follow different religions such as Buddhism, Hoa Hao, Cao ai, Catholicism and Protestantism.

According to the latest figures from the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, the province in 2015 had 45,789 poor households, or 8.45 per cent of the population.

Tri Ton District had 7,315 poor households, the highest number of any district.

The province, which targets reducing the household poverty rate by 1-1.5 per cent this year, and hopes to also limit relapses into poverty.  VNS
A NANG  Viet Nam has repatriated remains believed to be of US soldiers who died during the Viet Nam War.

At a ceremony at a Nang International Airport on Sunday, Viet Nam handed over boxes containing two sets of remains, one set submitted by locals and the other found by a Viet Nam-US team during their 127th joint search between April and June 2017.

The remains have been examined by Vietnamese and American forensic specialists, who concluded they could belong to US servicemen who went missing during the war. They recommended the remains be brought back to Hawaii for further review.

The ceremony marked the 141th handover of missing American soldiers remains since 1973.

The previous repatriation was also held in a Nang in April, during which three sets of remains were transferred following a joint search between February and April this year.  VNS
PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macrons centrist party swept to a large majority in parliamentary elections on Sunday, although it fell short of a predicted landslide.

Macrons year-old Republique en Marche (Republic on the Move, REM) and their allies won 351 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, final results showed after the second round of an election which has eliminated many high-profile figures.

The party Macron founded just 16 months ago has re-drawn the French political map, although the winning score was considerably lower than the 470 seats predicted by some pre-vote surveys.

But it gives the 39-year-old president one of Frances biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his programme of business-friendly reforms.

"A year ago, no-one would have imagined such a political renewal," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said.

"It is down to the presidents desire to breathe new life into democracy and to the French people who wanted to give parliament a new face."

Macrons success was tempered by a record low turnout of just under 44 per cent, leading his opponents to claim he had no groundswell of support.

Desire for change

REM routed the Socialists and heavily defeated the rightwing Republicans, while the far-right National Front (FN) of Marine Le Pen -- whom Macron defeated in the presidential run-off on May 7 -- had a disappointing night.

Le Pen entered parliament for the first time in her career in one of at least eight seats won by the FN, but the party fell well short of its 15-seat target.

Le Pens victory in the northern former coalmining town of Henin-Beaumont was a rare bright spot for her nationalist and anti-EU party that was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron.

She insisted the FN still had a key role to play, saying "We are the only force of resistance to the watering down of France, of its social model and its identity."

The Socialists were the biggest losers, punished for the high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence that marked their five years in power.

The party of former president Francois Hollande shed more than 250 seats, obtaining just 29 seats.

"The rout of the Socialist Party is undeniable," said PS leader Jean-Christophe Cambadelis, who lost his seat in the first round and resigned his position on Sunday night.

Former Socialist prime minister Manuel Valls narrowly retained his seat after a dogfight with a hard-left candidate in the Paris suburbs who demanded a recount amid noisy protests.

But former education minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem -- a one-time Socialist star -- was beaten by an REM candidate in the central city of Lyon, while former labour minister Myriam El Khomri lost to Macron-supporting candidate Pierre-Yves Bournazel in the capital.

The Republicans fared better than the Socialists, hanging on to 131 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party.

The conservative party had enough seats to "defend its convictions", said the partys leader for the elections, Francois Baroin, calling on Macron to heed the record low turnout, which he said sent "a message".

"The task he faces is immense," he added.

More women lawmakers

The new assembly is set to be transformed with younger, more ethnically diverse lawmakers and 223 women -- a record number.

Around half of REMs candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism.

They include 27-year-old Rwandan orphan Herve Berville, who cruised to victory in the western region of Brittany, and female bullfighter Marie Sara, who came within 100 votes of unseating senior FN figure Gilbert Collard in southern France.

The other half of the party are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians drawn from established parties including ally MoDem.

The hard-left France Unbowed won 17 seats as it also struggled to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, the movements firebrand leader, won a seat in the southern city of Marseille on a pledge to lead resistance to Macrons radical labour market reforms.

Melenchon also honed in on the record low turnout, saying "The French people are now engaged in a sort of civic general strike."

Many observers suggested voters were weary of elections after four in the space of two months.

Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans to overhaul Frances social security system and wants to breathe new life into the European Union.

His confident start at home, where he has concentrated on trying to restore the lost prestige of the president, and his bold action on the international stage has led to a host of positive headlines.

He won instant plaudits from Frances closest ally Germany, with Chancellor Angela Merkels spokesman hailing his "clear parliamentary majority."  AFP
BOGOTA  Colombias leaders and main rebel groups have pledged that a mall bombing that killed three women would not disrupt the countrys peace process, even as authorities scrambled to find out who was behind the carnage.

The victims -- two Colombians and a Frenchwoman -- perished when a device exploded in a ladies restroom in the crowded Andino shopping centre in Bogota on Saturday. At least nine people were also wounded, officials said on Sunday.

President Juan Manuel Santos called the incident a terrorist attack.

Rebel groups condemned the blast and said it was an attempt to undermine their efforts with the government to end Colombias half-century civil conflict.

Police said the explosion occurred at about 5:00 pm (2200 GMT) on Saturday, sending people running for their lives.

"There was a strong boom and the floor shook," said shop worker Milena Carcenas.

"There was smoke coming out of the bathroom. People were coming out of there covered in ash."

National police chief General Jorge Nieto told reporters "a device" was placed "behind one of the toilets in the womens bathroom."

Authorities have "three concrete hypotheses" on the perpetrators, Santos said Sunday after meeting with investigators, but declined to elaborate to avoid harming the probe.

There was a 100 million peso (about $33,000) reward for "anyone who can give us information to help capture those responsible," he said.

Big blow to peace?

The explosion comes at a delicate time for Colombias historic peace process. The countrys biggest rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), is scheduled to complete its disarmament by Tuesday.

The last active rebel force, the National Liberation Army (ELN), meanwhile, has started talks with the government, though confrontations with state forces have been continuing.

Last years peace deal with the FARC was initially narrowly rejected by Colombians in a referendum, with critics saying it was too lenient on the rebels.

A redrafted agreement from Santos and the FARC was later pushed through congress.

"Those who want to rain on the peace parade will not succeed," said Santos, who won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for sealing the accord with FARC leaders.

"If this (bombing) is that kind of gesture, then rest assured that we will pursue those enemies of peace without rest and without quarter," he said, speaking at the site of the blast.

Santos urged Colombians to continue their normal routines and enjoy the Fathers Day weekend, even sharing a meal at the Andino mall with his son to reassure the public that it was safe to go there.

Bogota Mayor Enrique Penalosa called Saturdays incident "a cowardly terrorist attack".

He said the Frenchwoman who died, aged 23, had spent six months working in a school in a poor neighborhood.

The leftist ELN said on Twitter it "condemns this deplorable incident," noting that the attack was "against civilians".

"We share the pain and stand in solidarity with the victims," the group wrote. "The state should investigate thoroughly to identify those responsible."

The leader, Rodrigo Londono -- known as Timochenko -- also denounced the explosion.

"This act can only come from those who want to close the roads of peace and Reconciliat on," he wrote on Twitter.

Dozens gathered at the mall on Sunday to pay homage to the victims, jostling to leave flowers and candles at a makeshift memorial.

The blast was the second major attack this year in the Colombian capital.

In February, the ELN claimed responsibility for a bombing at a bullring in Bogota, which killed a police officer and wounded more than 20 people.  AFP
BAMAKO  Suspected jihadists crying "Allahu Akbar" stormed a tourist resort popular with foreigners on the edge of the Malian capital Bamako on Sunday, briefly seizing more than 30 hostages and leaving at least two people dead.

The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.

Security forces who battled the gunmen at the site were continuing on Sunday evening to search for the assailants who fled.

Nearby residents had first reported the attack after hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.

"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened," Security Minister Salif Traore said. They were backed up by UN soldiers and troops from a French counter-terrorism force.

"Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese," he said, adding that the second body was being identified.

At least "32 hostages" were freed, Malis army said in a statement, adding that one of the attackers was wounded and gave up his weapon. He also left behind "bottles containing some explosive substances", the security ministry said.

At least 14 people, both Malians and foreigners, were injured, according to the ministry.

A witness interviewed on local television ORTM said he saw a man arrive on a motorcycle who "started shooting at the crowd" followed by "two or three people" who came in another vehicle.

The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Bamako on July 2 for a meeting with five Sahel countries, "is following the situation very closely," the presidency said on Sunday.

Increased threat of attacks

Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest)", although no group has yet claimed responsibility.

The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month "of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent".

At a France-Africa summit in Bamako in January, the owner of Kangaba, Herve Depardieu, had complained about the "alarming security information" given by foreign consulates "which seriously disturb our love of life and our freedoms".

In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.

That attack was claimed by al-Qaedas North African affiliate al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).  AFP
WASHINGTON  One of Donald Trumps lawyers insisted on Sunday that the president was not under criminal investigation as part of the sweeping probe into Russias alleged meddling in American elections, despite the US leaders tweets angrily calling the whole saga a "distraction".

The contradictory messages came after Trump first answered -- and seemingly confirmed -- reports that he is personally under scrutiny for potential obstruction of justice, tweeting on Friday: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt".

But Jay Sekulow, part of Trumps legal team, said the president was writing about reports of an investigation, not an actual probe.

"The tweet from the president was in response to the five anonymous sources purportedly leaking info to The Washington Post," Sekulow told NBC televisions

"Meet the Press."

"Hes not afraid of the investigation -- there is no investigation... there is not an investigation of the president of the United States, period."

The lawyer also suggested Twitters character limit may be partly to blame.

"The presidents response was as it related to the Washington Post report.

He cannot in a Twitter statement include all of that in there... Thats it. Simple explanation," Sekulow told CNNs "State of the Union".

Sekulow was referring to a report in the Post this week that said Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation of Russian interference in Novembers presidential election was now also trying to determine whether Trump obstructed justice.

Trumps fledgling presidency has been battered by allegations  being dissected both by Congress and the FBI -- that Russia interfered to sway the 2016 election in his favour, in possible collusion with the former real estate magnates campaign team.

On Sunday, Trump again referred to the probe, but dismissed it.

"The MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN agenda is doing very well despite the distraction of the Witch Hunt. Many new jobs, high business enthusiasm, massive regulation cuts, 36 new legislative bills signed, great new S.C. Justice, and Infrastructure, Healthcare and Tax Cuts in works!" he wrote.

Sekulow said his legal team had not received notice of any probe into Trump.

"There has been no notification from the special counsels office that the president is under investigation. In fact, to the contrary," he told CBS "Face the Nation," pointing to recent testimony by sacked FBI director James Comey who said the president had not been the target of an investigation. Trump fired Comey in early May.

Tapes next week?

Trump has hinted that he may have taped conversations with Comey  in which the ex-FBI chief says the president pressured him for his loyalty and on the Russia investigation while also urging him to drop a probe into former national security advisor Michael Flynn.

Sekulow said Trump would address the issue of the tapes -- whose very existence is unclear -- in the "week ahead."

Senator Marco Rubio, who lost the Republican primary election to Trump, called for a "full and credible investigation."

He sits on the Senate Intelligence Committee, which is conducting its own probe into Russian election meddling.

Angus King, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, estimated that investigators are just 20 per cent into their probe, which could last for months.

"I can say categorically that the collusion or co-operation aspect of the investigation is not over," the Maine senator told "Meet the Press," adding that the probe could be done by the end of 2017.

"This is a very complex matter, involving thousands of pages of intelligence documents, lots of witnesses."

Trump returned to the White House on Sunday after spending Fathers Day weekend at the Camp David presidential retreat.

He told reporters upon his return that the western Maryland mountain retreat is "incredible" and "beautiful," later tweeting that it is "a very special place."  AFP
The Virginia Tech Board of Visitors Executive Committee will meet in special session Monday, June 26, at 11 a.m. at the universitys Richmond office, located at 11 South 12th Street in Richmond, Virginia.

The Executive Committee will begin in closed session to discuss a personnel matter, to consider faculty salary increases, and potential litigation. The committee will then meet in open session to take action on faculty salaries discussed earlier and by-laws and governance changes.

One board member will participate by telephone from Piazza della Republica 7, 50123 Florence Italy. Anyone attending the meeting by phone from this location can report problems with the telephonic connection by calling (804) 786-8110.

The Executive Committee is empowered to act on behalf of the full board in between regular meetings. There will be no opportunity for public comment. More information may be found at the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors website.
Two Virginia Tech experts on the topic of gerrymandering are available to discuss the U.S. Supreme Court decision to hear a potentially landmark case involving election redistricting.

On Monday, the court agreed to take up a case from Wisconsin in order to determine whether it may have involved constitutional violations because of partisan gerrymandering.

Virginia Tech political scientists Jason Kelly and Nick Goedert are available for interviews to discuss the topic and its possible impact.

To secure a live or recorded interview with either Kelly or Goedert, contact Bill Foy by email, or by phone at 540-998-0288.

Our studio

Virginia Tech's television and radio studios can broadcast live HD audio and video to networks, news agencies, and affiliates interviewing Virginia Tech faculty, students, and staff. The university does not charge for use of its studios. Video is transmitted by LTN Global Communications and fees may apply.
WATERLOO  A Waterloo man has been sentenced to almost two decades in prison for selling methamphetamine.

Judge Linda Reade sentenced Aldreias Jerome Campbell, 42, to 19 years and seven months in prison on Monday in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids. Reade also ordered the sentence run consecutive with state domestic assault, stalking and burglary charges that currently have pending probation revocation hearings.

The sentence will be followed by eight years of supervised release, and he was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment.

Campbell pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine as a drug felon in February.

Authorities allege Campbell sold meth between October 2015 and the Spring of 2016.

According to court records, authorities searched a Kern Street home April 2016 and found more than 36 grams of meth, a digital scale and a cutting agent in the basement and meth in the kitchen and an upstairs bedroom. After search, Campbell allegedly sold meth to a confidential informant in November 2016, which led to a search at another home where officers found a digital scale and $961 in cash.

During Mondays hearing the government sought to enhance Campbells sentence because his criminal record includes 36 convictions including a 2015 conviction for allegedly assaulting his pregnant girlfriend.
CEDAR RAPIDS  An assistant United States attorney who prosecuted two homicides on the Meskwaki settlement has received special recognition.

Anthony Morfitt, with the Cedar Rapids-based U.S. Attorneys Office in the Northern District of Iowa, was one of 179 Department of Justice members recognized by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys Director Monty Wilkinson at the 33rd Directors Awards Ceremony on Friday in Washington, D.C.

The Northern District of Iowa was one of 35 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.

Morfitt was recognized for his efforts in the prosecution of violent crime in Indian Country. In the past several years, Morfitt was involved with the prosecution of Gordon Lasley Jr. and Jonathan Curtis Youngbear, who were convicted in unrelated homicides stemming from slayings in 2014.

Morfitt handled the presentation of medical and cultural evidence to rebut Lasleys insanity defense at the trial. Youngbear entered a guilty plea. Morfitts work has significantly increased the safety of the tribal community, according to the U.S Attorneys Office.

Through his outstanding work, Assistant United States Attorney Morfitt helped secure justice following three tragic murders, said Acting United States Attorney Sean Berry. I am happy that Tonys excellent work has been recognized through this well-deserved and prestigious award.
WATERLOO --- A Waterloo man who was hospitalized after he was stabbed at a home on West Mullan Avenue in April has now been arrested on gun charges in connection with the incident.

Maliek Todd-Harris, 21, of 252 Baltimore St., was arrested Sunday for first-degree burglary and felon in possession of a firearm. He was taken to the Black Hawk County Jail, and his bond was set at $132,000.

According to court records, Todd-Harris was armed with a handgun when he went to a home in the 1200 block of West Mullan Avenue around 2:15 p.m. on April 17. A witness said Todd-Harris attempted to shoot Durius Davis, and when the weapon wouldnt fire, he chased Davis into 1227 W. Mullan.

A mother and young child were inside the house, and Davis ran upstairs while the mother and child fled through a back door, witnesses told police. Todd-Harris then left the house and began arguing with another person outside but returned to the home after Davis opened the door. Davis stabbed Todd-Harris in the abdomen and then fled, according to court records.

Todd-Harris was treated at Covenant Medical Center. Davis was not charged in the incident.

Todd-Harris is prohibited from handling firearms because of felony convictions for willful injury and intimidation with a weapon for allegedly shooting a person at the former Wild Ice Lounge on Christmas morning in 2011, according court records.
DECORAH  An Ames police officer and Iraq war veteran originally from Decorah is one of a number of Iowa military and public safety personnel being recognized by Boone-based Fareway Corp.

Their photos are being displayed on the sides of company trucks.

Decorah native Dan Walter, a 14-year member of the Ames Police Department, is pictured on one of the Fareway trailers, which was at the Decorah Fareway on Tuesday morning.

Lieutenant Walter is a 1997 graduate of Decorah High School and a major in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served in Iraq and is now based out of Norfolk, Va., for his reserve duty.

Walter lives in Ames with his wife, Mollie, daughter, Hallie, and son, Mitchell.

Walter complimented Cramer for the tribute and Fareways appreciation for all public servants.

I personally consider it a real honor not only for myself, but for all public servants, he said.

Local law enforcement, emergency personnel, firefighters and veterans were invited to view a trailer bearing Walters photo at Fareway on Tuesday.

Fareway Stores Inc., along with Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and Acting Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg, recently unveiled a series of semi-trailer trucks celebrating Iowas heroes from throughout the state.

The trailers showcase photographs of 24 members from various branches of public service, including the Iowa National Guard, Iowa state troopers and local law enforcement agencies.

This week, as the world honors public service members for their ultimate sacrifice, we want to show our appreciation of their everyday commitment to protecting our freedoms, Fareway CEO Reynolds Cramer said when the trailers were unveiled. These trailers are a tribute to the great men and women serving Iowa, and we thank them for their service.

Our first responders make significant contributions to the state of Iowa and its people, said Reynolds. Their tireless efforts, and the sacrifice made by their families, should be honored and commended.

We appreciate Iowa companies, like Fareway, who recognize the importance of our public service men and women, said Gregg. Thank you to those featured and the many other first responders who give of themselves every day.

The trailers will be added to Fareways existing fleet and travel a five-state region, including Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota, in addition to Iowa.

A dedication on the trailers reads, To all the service men and woman, we honor your leadership, admire your courage and respect your service. Our continued success is born from the freedoms protected by your sacrifice. Gratefully, Fareway.
DES MOINES  The federal governments top attorney wants the freedom to prosecute states  such as Iowa  with medical marijuana programs, according to a letter made public last week.

But Iowa officials insist the states newly expanded program, which now includes the opportunity for two businesses to grow and sell medical cannabis, will remain safe from federal scrutiny.

U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions on May 1 wrote a letter to congressional leaders opposing a mechanism in the federal budget that prohibits the Department of Justice from using its resources to prosecute states that establish medical marijuana laws.

The provision was written into the budget when President Barack Obamas Justice Department began cracking down on medical marijuana vendors; originally Obama said the department would not prosecute vendors and patients who adhere to state law.

Marijuana is not recognized by the federal government as a medicinal plant, so medical marijuana programs run afoul of federal drug control laws.

A total of 29 states have medical marijuana laws, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Iowas program was introduced in 2014 and had a very narrow focus; it allowed only for the possession and use of physician-prescribed cannabidiol for treatment of epileptic seizures.

This year, state lawmakers and former Gov. Terry Branstad approved an expansion of the program, adding more covered ailments, including cancer, multiple sclerosis, AIDs and Parkinsons disease, and legalizing the growth and sale of medical cannabis in Iowa.

The letter

Sessions letter was addressed to Republican leaders Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell and Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi. It was dated May 1 and published last week by the website MassRoots.com and later verified by The Washington Post.

I believe it would be unwise for Congress to restrict the discretion of the Department to fund particular prosecutions, particularly in the midst of an historic drug epidemic and potentially long-term uptick in violent crime, Sessions wrote in the letter. The Department must be in a position to use all laws available to combat the transnational drug organizations and dangerous drug traffickers who threaten American lives.

The historic drug epidemic to which Session referred involves addictive opioid drugs such as heroin and some painkilling medicines, not the medicinal cannabis used in state medical marijuana programs. More than 33,000 people died from opioid overdoses in 2015, and 12.5 million misused prescription opioids, according to federal statistics.

And violent crime in the U.S. increased slightly from 2014 to 2015, but it remains at a rate lower than it has been since the early 1970s and roughly half of what it was in the early 1990s, according to the most recent federal statistics.

Sessions in the letter says drug traffickers cultivate and distribute marijuana inside the United States under the guise of state medical marijuana laws and asserts smoking marijuana has significant negative health effects.

Iowas program prohibits smoking marijuana and limits the potency level of the medical cannabis to just 3 percent, which experts say is not enough to provide the high effect of marijuana.

The U.S. Attorney Generals Office did not respond to a request for comment.

Iowa program

State officials insisted Iowas program will not come under federal prosecution and implementation of the recent expansion will continue. On Tuesday, the state Department of Public Health announced it is accepting applications for the new program.

The department is committed to following and implementing state law, public health Director Gerd Clabaugh said in response to a question about Sessions letter.

House Speaker Linda Upmeyer said she thinks the Iowa programs regulations will keep it safe from federal intrusion.

Iowas medical cannabis program will be tightly regulated once its up and running, and shouldnt be an issue, Upmeyer said in an emailed statement. We have safeguards in place to prevent any unlawful activity. The only people that should be concerned about Attorney General Sessions request are states with poorly monitored programs and the bad actors taking advantage of them.

Advocates for medical marijuana programs and supporters of Iowas expressed frustration with Sessions letter.

Maria La France of Des Moines, whose son suffers from epileptic seizures, said prosecuting medical marijuana programs could hurt the lives of hundreds of thousands of citizens and thwart medical breakthroughs.

State Sen. Joe Bolkcom, D-Iowa City, who for years has pushed for the state medical cannabis program and its expansion, said Sessions letter displays a massive overreach by the (President Donald) Trump administration and said it would be a waste of taxpayer money to prosecute states that have developed medical marijuana programs to help ailing residents.

The states that have approved medical cannabis laws, the direction from the federal government to this point was, If you follow the law that you passed as a state, were not going to come in and shut you down. This memo would be counter to that, Bolkcom said.

Bolkcom said cracking down on medical marijuana programs could undermine Sessions stated desire to combat the opioid epidemic. In states with medical marijuana programs, opioid-related hospitalizations for addiction and abuse dropped an average of 23 percent and for overdoses 13 percent, according to a study published in March in the online medical journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence.

State Rep. John Forbes, D-Urbandale, who also is a pharmacist, said the federal government should leave it to states to decide whether they want to operate medical marijuana programs.

Im disappointed the federal government would step in and try to tell states how to provide medical services to their constituents, Forbes said.

Advocates fear Iowas expanded medical cannabis still has enough limitations that too few people will be helped and thus businesses will not be interested in setting up dispensaries here. The U.S. attorney general stating a desire to prosecute state programs also may dissuade potential businesses.

It could definitely have an impact on a person or a business that wants to set up, because theyre going to invest a few million dollars to get up and running and the attorney general could come in and shut them down in 24 hours if they wanted, Forbes said.
Iowa officials are trying to fix the states crumbling health insurance marketplace.

The country, it seems, is watching with interest.

Iowa insurance commissioner Doug Ommen last week unveiled his proposal to address the likelihood the state will have no insurance companies selling individual plans on the marketplace next year, which would leave nearly 72,000 Iowans without access to health insurance.

Ommens proposal, which requires federal approval, would provide those individuals with age- and income-based tax credits and would create a reinsurance mechanism for people with extensive medical costs, the Gazettes Chelsea Keenan reported last week.

Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the states largest health insurance provider, worked with Ommen on the proposal. Company officials said Wellmark will enter the individual marketplace and offer plans if the proposal is approved by the federal government.

Iowa already was under the national health insurance policy microscope as insurance companies  including Wellmark  pulled out of the individual marketplace created under former President Barack Obamas health care reform, the Affordable Care Act. The companies cited high costs and uncertainty surrounding the law, which has heightened after the 2016 elections put Republicans in control of the White House and Congress.

Those moves could make Iowa the first state in the nation without a single insurance company selling individual plans statewide on the marketplace next year.

Now the health insurance policy community is watching Iowa again as state officials attempt to address the issue.

Much of the interest appears to regard whether the federal government will approve Iowas proposal, which is not in perfect alignment with the Affordable Care Act. But Republican lawmakers and President Donald Trump wish to repeal the reforms passed by the previous, Democratic administration.

An administration decision to allow Iowas plan would test how far any state could move from ACA rules without a change in federal law, said a Washington Post story on Iowas proposal.

Larry Levitt, with the nonpartisan health care think tank Kaiser Family Foundation, was interviewed by multiple national media outlets and said the administrations decision on Iowas proposal could have some far-reaching impacts.

If the health debate in Congress stalls, then states may be lining up for waivers like this, Levitt told the Post.

This is a notable effort by state officials to address what could be a crisis in their insurance market, fueled in part by uncertainty coming out of Washington, Levitt wrote in an email to The Hill. There would winners and losers here, but it seems like the plan could keep insurers in the market.

Tim Jost, a retired professor of health care law at Washington and Lee University and a supporter of the Affordable Care Acts policies, told the Post and The Hill he does not believe the Iowa proposal is legal.

Absolutely not, Jost told the Post. He added, to The Hill, Basically theyre asking the administration to use (a waiver) as the carte blanche to allow states to completely rewrite the ACA and do whatever they want to do with federal money, and thats not what (a waiver) is or does.

Iowa has asked the federal government for a decision within two weeks.

Nearly 72,000 thousand Iowans and countless others across the country, it seems, will be watching.

Political violence

In the wake of the shooting of U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, some media outlets reported on previous members of Congress who were shot while serving.

One such shooting victim is former Rep. Ben Jensen of Iowa.

Jensen, who was born in Marion, was one of five representatives shot March 1, 1954, on the U.S. House floor when Puerto Rican nationalists sprayed gunfire from the gallery, according to Jensens obituary in the New York Times. Jensen survived the shooting; in 1970 he died of cancer at the age of 77, according to the Times.
Britains Conservative Party defeated the moribund Labour Party in an unexpectedly close vote earlier this month that may have provided insights into coming U.S. elections.

Just as approval last spring of the referendum for the United Kingdom to leave the European Union foreshadowed Donald Trumps surprise presidential victory stressing Brexit themes  immigration and the impact of the global economy on the working class  the latest vote undoubtedly has American politicians reading British tea leaves.

Prime Minister Theresa May broke a promise and called for the election three years early to bolster her hand for a hard exit in negotiations with the EU. May has threatened to drastically cut British corporate tax rates to entice European businesses if the EU is not amendable to her terms.

The Conservatives had 331 of the 650 seats in Parliament, but a larger majority would have helped her cause.

With a 20 percent lead in the polls over a Labour Party that hadnt surpassed 40 percent of actual votes cast since 2001, it seemed a good bet. But May, who succeeded David Cameron, a Brexit opponent, was an inept campaigner, mocking anti-Brexit voters as pro-European. (The Brexit vote was 53.4 percent to leave and 46.6 percent to remain.)

The Conservatives lost 14 seats. May sought an alliance with Northern Irelands far-right Democratic Unionist Party  founded as a Protestant paramilitary organization  to maintain control, despite warnings from former Conservative Prime Minister John Major it imperiled the 1993 Northern Ireland peace accord.

Labour came within 2.5 percent of the Conservative vote tally, gaining 30 seats for a 262 total. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is in many ways a clone of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., but leans further left. He proposed free college tuition, higher taxes and more health-care spending, while nationalizing the energy sector and railways.

Still, having 55 fewer seats in Parliament is hardly cause for gushing, akin to the sorry state of the far left in much of Europe, reeling from socialism gone awry in Greece.

Polling results in Britain revealed a growing dissatisfaction  particularly among the young  with the Conservatives economic Austerity Program, but wariness about embracing Labour, especially among older voters with memories of a 52 percent corporate tax rate in the 1970s and economic stagnation.

The Conservative Party agenda bears great resemblance to President Trumps economic program.

Corporate tax rates in Britain have been reduced from 28 percent in 2010 to 17 percent while reining in government spending. British-based firms had their highest profitability since 1998  until uncertainty over Brexit put a pall over investments.

Trump wants to cut the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 15 percent while slashing domestic spending.

In Britain, the Austerity Program helped quadruple the number of billionaires since 2009, but wages are stagnant. The Conservatives did boost the minimum wage  separating themselves from Trump  from $9.18 to $9.56 (in equivalent U.S. dollars) with $11.47 proposed by 2020.

But the centerpiece of the Austerity Program is privatizing government-owned entities from the National Air Traffic Service to mail service and possibly public housing. Proponents maintain the sales provide more funding for infrastructure initiatives while increasing efficiencies.

Opponents cite undervalued sales, including the last shares of the Royal Mail sold for $1.25 billion less than reported worth, and that consumers could foot higher bills with no service improvements. They maintain the transfer of national assets and power to the extremely rich exacerbates the wealth gap.

Austerity could come to the U.S. with Trumps still sketchy 10-year infrastructure plan that would use $200 billion in tax breaks to leverage $1 trillion in private spending. It would be achieved primarily by privatizing air-traffic control operations (a technology laggard) and other assets.

State and localities would be encouraged to sell existing infrastructure to private firms. That might become necessary to finance road improvements, because Trumps budget would reduce the Federal Highway Trust Fund by $90 billion over 10 years  despite an estimated shortfall in that amount to meet current needs.

New interstate highway tolls would pay for improvements, lifting current restrictions.

In Britain the voter backlash against the Conservatives was seen  particularly among the young  as austerity going too far without apparent benefits. But wariness also existed about handing over the keys to the free-spending, tax-happy Labourites.

On this side of the pond, weve not been enamored by Democrats attempts to solve every social ill by adding a new government program to a budget headed for implosion or Republicans craving the privatization of nearly every government program and asset.

In some cases, business efficiencies are preferable to government inertia, but the quest for higher profits can undermine services, particularly to the most vulnerable, and public benefits. Instead of one-size-fits-all ideologies, more pragmatic approaches would be welcome.
Q: When will the city of Waterloo salaries be published?

A: We will schedule them for publication once the city submits them to us.

Q: When was Orange School torn down? Are there any bricks still available?

A: The project is almost complete, so bricks are no longer available, said Waterloo Community Schools spokeswoman Tara Thomas.

Q: Is there a number to report people spraying their yards on windy days in the city limits of Waterloo when kids are outside playing next door?

A: If there is concern about a specific pesticide misuse incident, Iowans can file an incident report with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Pesticide Bureau by phoning (515) 281-8591 or by emailing the information to pesticides@IowaAgriculture.gov. This report must be filed within 60 days after the alleged date that damages occurred.

Q: Can you ask the Iowa Department of Natural Resources or the George Wyth State Park ranger why they let George Wyth Lake get so weedy, overgrown and nasty looking?

A: George Wyth State Park manager Lori Eberhard responds: We are happy to see plant growth in Wyth Lake. It is a borrow pit, meaning it was mined for the sand that was used for the highways in the area and construction. For years we didnt have much for fish and other animals for habitat. Now that we have the plants growing in the lake it is helping with fish populations, providing food and more habitat for other animals. It is great to see Mother Nature working in a positive manner.

Q: When will the railroad fix the tracks on Wagner Road and going into the airport?

A: These two crossings are scheduled to be rebuilt in 2019. The city is working with the railroad to see if some temporary repairs can be made.

Q: I live near Highway 63 and Lafayette near all the construction, which raises all sorts of dust. Is there a city or state ordinance that requires the contractor to put down water to keep the dust down?

A: Waterloo Engineering Department officials are not aware of any city ordinance or state rule requiring the contractor to put down water to keep the dust down.

Q. There is a driveway in the 800 block of West Third Street that goes up into Hawkeye Community Colleges parking lot. The city grades it every year. How much would it cost between the two houses to blacktop it?

A: This is actually a public alley, which is why the Public Works Department grades it. A rough estimate to pave this alley with asphalt is $20,000, per the Waterloo Engineering Department.
At least 1,000 drones have been put into use by police nationwide to assist in a wide range of operations, including tracking suspects, monitoring traffic and locating opium farms, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

The actual number is likely to be much higher, according to Li Mu, who works at the ministry's test center for special police equipment and oversees the quality of unmanned aircraft.

"The last time the ministry counted the number of police drones on the mainland was in September 2015," he said. "At that time, about 300 unmanned aircraft were used by nearly 150 police authorities in 25 provincial regions."

Li said since then many more drones had been added. "The Shenzhen Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Industry Association recently told us its members had sold about 700 drones to police authorities across China last year. Therefore, we can estimate a ballpark figure of at least 1,000 drones in service."

Shenzhen is the world's largest manufacturing hub for drones, as nearly 70 percent of consumer drones on the global market are made in the southeastern coastal city, which is home to more than 300 drone companies, according to the city's commerce bureau.

"To my understanding, a lot of local police continue introducing drones but have yet to report the condition of their fleets to the ministry, so the actual figure of police drones must be higher than our estimation," he explained.

Most of police drones are small- and medium-size quadcopters that use two pairs of identical fixed pitched propellers, Li said. Quadcopters are believed to be the most commonly used drones in civilian, business and public sectors because they are cheap and easy to control.

Li spoke to China Daily during the 2017 China Unmanned Systems Expo in Beijing, which closed on Friday. The three-day expo was jointly organized by the China Center for Aerospace Science and Technology International Communications and the China Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems, displaying 140 unmanned aircraft from 103 domestic and foreign companies.

Reports show police in the cities of Beijing and Wuhan as well as Shandong, Jiangsu and Shaanxi provinces often deploy drones in operations.

Compared with manned helicopters used by police, drones have several advantagesthey involve lower investment and maintenance cost, can be rapidly deployed, are suitable for use in dangerous circumstances such as chemical explosions or nuclear leaks and are not easily noticed, Li said.

Liu Daolin, deputy director of the Ministry of Public Security's police aviation management office, said local police departments are active and willing to use drones because they can perform a wide variety of tasks at low cost and low risk, he said. Liu previously estimated the number of police drones on the Chinese mainland would reach 1,000 by the end of 2020.
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By West Kentucky Star Staff

Jun. 14, 2017 | MURRAY, KY

By West Kentucky Star Staff Jun. 14, 2017 | 12:15 PM | MURRAY, KY

Police have arrested four Kentucky National Guard soldiers following an investigation into a reported sexual assault in Calloway County.



According to the Kentucky State Police, Troopers responded on the morning of June 3 to Murray-Calloway County Hospital after getting a report of a sexual assault. The preliminary investigation reportedly showed the four suspects, who were in Calloway County in preparation for weekend deployment, gave the victim alcohol and then sexually assaulted her.



Police arrested 25-year-old Anthony R. Tubolino of Auburn on charges of second degree rape, second degree sodomy, and third degree unlawful transaction with a minor; 19-year-old Tyler A. Hart of Bowling Green on charges of first degree sexual abuse and second degree sodomy; 21-year-old Austin L. Dennis of Monfordville on a charge of second degree sodomy; and 22-year-old Jacob F. Ruth of Monfordville on a charge of second degree sodomy.



All four suspects were booked into the Calloway County Jail.



Kentucky National Guard Maj. General Stephen Hogan released a statement Wednesday afternoon about the incident, condemning sexual assault and expressing support for local police as they investigate the case.



"Sexual assault is not only a reprehensible act, it is a criminal act. First and foremost our goal is to support the victim of this incident. It is damaging to our morale, to our readiness and to our combat ability. It has no place in the Kentucky National Guard, Hogan said. It goes against all the values we hold dear as service members in the U.S. Military. The men and women of our organization are our greatest resource and we will do all we can to support the victim."



Guard officials also said the accused soldiers are entitled to due process, and no action will be taken until the Kentucky State Police investigation is completed.


Cub Scout Day in Land Between the Lakes Nov. 19
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By The Associated Press

Jun. 18, 2017 | WASHINGTON, DC

By The Associated Press Jun. 18, 2017 | 10:04 PM | WASHINGTON, DC

The U.S. military has shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants. The action appears to mark a new escalation of the conflict.



A Pentagon spokesman says the U.S. had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation.



The U.S. has long said that it would protect what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces. This is the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.



The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq says a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa.
AUSTIN, Texas  Governor Greg Abbott signed into a law the Texas adoption bill that aims to protect the rights of conscience for child welfare services providers. As we reported in May, the controversial bill has generated both national support and criticism. Proponents claim that the new law will help an ailing child care system by protecting faith-based service organizations, which make up a sizable bulk of the potential child welfare providers. The bills sponsor, Rep. James Frank (R), posted on Facebook: HB 3859 bans no one. The aim, as he has said, is to improve the system and find stable families for troubled children.

Contrary to that, critics say that the law will allow for open discrimination based on religion, marital status, or sexual preference. Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller said, With his signature [..], Gov. Abbott has joined the lieutenant governor and other lawmakers in taking Texas down a dark and cruel road. Miller added that the bill is a clear attempt to discriminate against not only the LGBT community but also people of other faiths.

In May, we spoke with blogger John Beckett, a Texas-based Druid and Unitarian Universalist. He said that while he understands the sentiments behind the bill, he stands in opposition, saying, Its real-world impact will be to make it harder for LGBT families, Pagan families, and other non-Christian families to adopt children. However, he did note that that the situation is complicated.

The new law will go into affect September. Several LGBT organizations have reportedly planned to challenge the new law.

* * *

BRAZIL  Members of the Piago Paganism organization inaugurated a new polytheistic temple dedicated to the religious traditions of the area. Located in the Piaui in northeastern Brazil, the temple is located in a large rural area dedicated to the preservation of polytheist cultural and religious preservation: Vila Paga.

Held May 28, the inauguration ceremony was attended by members of the Pagan community, as well as political and religious leaders, including those from the Catholic, Neopentecostal, and World Messianic churches, as well as Candomble and Umbanda.

According to organizer and leader of Piaga Circle, Rafael Noleto, the event was started with a presentation of children from the community, who [presented a theatrical piece] representing the formation of Piaga Paganism, a polytheistic tradition that celebrates the spirits and deities native to Piaui and Brazil. Piaga Paganism also honors the gods of 15 foreign pantheons.

* * *

UNITED STATES  Today is June 19th, also known as Juneteenth. As columnist Crystal Blanton noted in a June 17 article, Juneteenth is just that  an historic day of freedom for Black Americans. Filled with celebrations, festivals, and remembrance, the date June 19 marks the end of chattel slavery in all of the states within the U.S.

Celebrations are taking place throughout the country. Blanton lists a number of ways that Pagans can celebrate the holiday with the help of several websites, one of which is Lilith Dorseys Voodoo Universe. In a 2015 post, Dorsey discussed the honoring of ancestors with food. She writes, Many of the recipes I feature here on this blog Voodoo Universe would be suitable dishes to make this Juneteenth for your own illusion. For at it center Juneteenth is about celebrating our hard won freedom on every level. nourishing ourselves no matter what illusions life dishes out. Enjoy this Juneteenth and your freedom.

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A startup needs to test an idea quickly. For this, an MVP is created. MVP, Minimal Viable Product  a test version of a product or service with a minimum set of functions (up to one or two), which allows you to see the product's value for consumers and the market. MVP is created to test hypotheses and check the viability of the intended product: is it worth developing the project further, what changes should be made? The sooner a startup brings its MVP to market and tests the idea, the better. This article will look at how no-code technology can help founders achieve their business goals.

This article will try to cover everything that a founder needs to know about no-code at the initial stage of creating a startup.

What is no-code?

No-code, zero-code platform is a tool for creating websites, applications, chatbots, and other programs without the need for direct code writing by programmers. No-code is a valuable alternative to traditional development.

No-code is confused with low-code, but there is a difference in these terms. Low-code includes no-code and the ability to "finish code", add parts of code and the functionality.

A user of a no-code platform usually does not need to know layout, programming languages, or hire a team of programmers. The user of the no-code tool creates an application using a visual block constructor, which he fills with the necessary content and functions, and the no-code platform itself does the processing of requests, compiling the application and other "magic." It generates code using AI and/or contains blocks of code pre-written by programmers.

No-code allows the startup founder to create an MVP himself, entrust it to his employee with basic technical literacy and understanding of the project, or hire a no-code developer. Even in the case of hiring a no-code developer, the cost of creating an MVP will be significantly lower than with classical development with programmers. For example, you can read the interview of a startup and no-code developer on our website, who initially worked as a Product Manager and was able to master no-code for his project himself.

Benefits of no-code for a startup founder

There are the following key advantages for a startup founder in using no-code technology:

a large selection of no-code tools, platforms, and their integrations at the moment  already in 2022, there are many tools and platforms for creating an MVP, a larger project, or even a finished product on no-code, but few people still know about them, and others are far from all startups and founders use their potential;

cost  no-code development saves the money by speeding up the development process, not hiring professional programmers or no need to maintain a developer department, monitoring functions and quick bug fixes, avoiding or reducing the growth of technical debt;

speed is the main advantage over classical development  no-code allows you to build a simple application in a weekend, and a more complex one can be built in a month. In this way, you can test an MVP and even several versions of an MVP very quickly;

low entry threshold  to master a no-code platform, you often do not need technical education at all, but only an understanding of a company's business processes or product from the inside. In the case of pro-level no-code platforms, technical education is required, but you can get used to it hundreds of times faster than with any programming language. This makes no-code available to almost everyone who wants to work with technology;

ease of use  no need to write hundreds of code lines  just move the blocks and assign links between them. Work on a project can be entrusted to your employee without communicating with a team of third-party developers. You can speak "in your language" without the need to understand the "inner kitchen" of developers;

flexibility  with the help of no-code, it is easy for a startup founder to add new functionality and new features right during a project or a MVP testing without a significant increase in development costs.

Possible disadvantages of no-code for a startup founder

As often, any property can be, under certain conditions, both a disadvantage and an advantage. In no-code, many of the benefits with the wrong choice of tool can turn into disadvantages:

no-code is not always a budget solution for a project. Sometimes in a no-code development package, you get unnecessary functions and additions (on AppMaster.io you can separately connect the frontend and pay only for the backend or only for those functions that you are using); if you do not understand the needs of your project, then you can make a mistake with the choice of a no-code tool and not be able to implement the necessary functions on it, or it will be too difficult to implement them; often, no-code tools fail to ensure proper data security and contribute to data leakage (but AppMaster.io allows you to host a finished application on any server); no-code tools often do not provide the ability to upload source code or provide uploading in an inconvenient format, which makes it difficult to move to another tool or to your development. You have to choose a no-code tool "once and forever immediately" (AppMaster. io gives you the ability to download the source code. Also, we generate human-readable code and you will not have any difficulties with its transportation); most no-code tools on the market are not suitable for creating a finished product, and there are significant difficulties with scaling the project if the MVP is successful (AppMaster.io is a professional no-code platform and our capabilities allow us to implement and support the finished product and scale it in the future).

Forewarned is forearmed. Choose your no-code tool wisely and take full advantage of your choice.

Types of no-code platforms

Conventionally, all no-code tools can be divided into several types: no-code devices with a low entry threshold (you can create frontend and not very powerful backend on them), integrators that help connect applications and services, and professional no-code platforms (they strive to replace the code completely, provide the ability to create a robust backend and high bandwidth).

The basic principle of operation of your MVP and the choice of a no-code platform depend on such a conditional division into types. For example, if you make a simple application like a diary, you can limit yourself to a no-code tool with a low entry threshold and a beautiful design.

If your application has powerful potential, high bandwidth, multi-user interface, and works with large amounts of data or real-time data, it is better to choose a professional no-code platform like AppMaster.io or Direcual.

If you use several services at once, link them on integrators like Integromat and Zapier.

Adalo

An easy-to-learn designer with a relatively user-friendly interface. The free version is helpful for learning. The free version contains Adalo watermarks and does not allow you to upload your applications to GooglePlayMarket and AppStore. Beginners often choose this no-code platform to create their first applications with simple logic.

Bubble

It will take more time to learn Bubble , but the platform allows you to work with the backend, databases, business processes, and layout. There are many plugins. The free plan allows you to master the tool, and you can start developing at the middle rate. The price increase is due to the rise in the number of users.

Integromat

It is an integrator. Experts talk about it as a simple and affordable platform for linking applications and services. Scenarios can be created personally, or you can use templates. If you need to connect an application with a service not from the Integromat database, fill out the form and connect to its API via HTTP.

Zapier

This is an integrator for linking applications with each other or with other external services. You can transfer data between thousands of applications. There is a script constructor (one event starts a chain of necessary actions).

Directual

The no-code platform positions itself for creating MVP applications (Minimal Viable Product, minimum viable product) and full-fledged applications of finished products. Scenarios are the backbone of the platform. Using scripts, you can automate the backend logic of the application, create and combine workflows. The Directual catalog includes out-of-the-box connectors, HTTP requests, webhooks, database listeners, and integration with popular services.

AppMaster.io

No-code next-generation platform for creating native and web applications on a real backend. Visual drag-and-drop designer, user-friendly business process designer, one-click app publishing to AppMaster Cloud, or integration with any cloud platform. Push notifications, authorization using social networks. Networks, email, and more. Connect applications to hundreds of services or programmatically access them using APIs. The ability to upload source code and documentation in a human-readable format and transfer it to your servers. Documentation auto-generation. Modern and fast language GoLang at the core.

No-code perspectives for startups

No-code development is gradually gaining popularity around the world. There are already more than 500 no-code tools for creating websites and various types of applications.

According to the forecasts of IT world experts, no-code will develop more and more actively and capture parts of the market responsible for medicine, small online business, small business, and all niches where it is possibly necessary to optimize and automate development processes.

The mass shift of businesses and their customers online and to gadgets has increased the demand for the fast and inexpensive creation of mobile applications that would work according to a single quality standard and have a simple, understandable, user-friendly interface.

Conclusion

No-code is visual programming in the form of a constructor without directly writing code. Usually, basic knowledge in development is enough to build applications on no-code.

The logic of no-code constructors is intuitive: the application interface is assembled from blocks, icons, buttons, and text which are connected to the database. Usually, you can choose a suitable template or do everything from scratch. Speed and economy are the main advantages of no-code tools.

No-code is suitable for creating an MVP, testing an idea or new features in a product, saving time for solving standard tasks. PRO level no-code platforms can provide you with a finished product, an application.

If you don't have an account on AppMaster.io yet, join us. After registration, you will be given a free trial period for 14 days, in which all the basic functionality of the platform is available. It will allow you to learn the intricacies of working with a professional-level no-code platform and understand its potential.
Jun 19, 2017 | By Tess

Indian 3D printing platform think3D, a subsidiary of Singapore-based think3D Labs Pte Ltd., has announced it will be establishing a $6 million 3D printing facility in Vizag, Andhra Pradesh, India. The center is being realized in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ), a special-purpose entity formed by the Indian government and the Andhra Pradesh provincial government with the goal of advancing medical device manufacturing in the country.

The $6 million facility is expected to enable Indias medical device market (worth $5.5 billion and on the rise) to become more independent. Currently, nearly 75% of the market is made up of imported devices, a reality which hinders the countrys economy and employment growth.

Part of the effort to increase medical device manufacturing in India is coming from MAKE IN INDIA, a government-led initiative aimed at promoting and expanding Indian design and manufacturing on the whole. Together with the government of Andhra Pradesh, MAKE IN INDIA has launched Indias first medical technology manufacturing park and is encouraging local manufacturers to use its facilities with the support of subsidies.

At the park, one facility will be dedicated to 3D printing and 3D design. There, manufacturers in India will be able to benefit from state-of-the-art additive manufacturing equipment on a pay-per-use basis. This method will allow businesses to bypass large investments in equipment and their own manufacturing facilities without having to sacrifice high-end technologies.

We realized the need to have mega industrial partners in AMTZ," says Dr. Jithendra Sharma, CEO of AMTZ. "They will support manufacturers in producing quality product at an industrial cost-effective scale."

Visit to the AMTZ site

think3D was chosen to help AMTZ set up and manage the 3D Printing & 3D Design facility after submitting a tender. Through the tender agreement, AMTZ will provide think3D with equipment through the facility on lease, while think3D will use its own expenses to manage the facility, offering services to customers at a subsidized rate (or at market rate for non-park customers).

The facility itself will span 20,000 square feet and will feature a number of metal, SLS, SLA, and bio 3D printers, as well as a reverse engineering facility and 3D design tools. We are very excited to be part of AMTZ facility and contribute to the MAKE IN INDIA initiative," said Raja Sekhar Upputuri, co-founder of think3D. "A state-of-art 3D printing & 3D designing facility helps manufacturers bring innovative products into the market at a much faster pace. We look forward to see some great medical devices coming out of this park in years to come."

think3D got selected in the tendering process by winning both technical and financial bids," added Nitin Bharadwaj, Vice President of Operations at AMTZ Ltd. "We believe think3D is a perfect partner for us to manage the 3D facility in the park. We were looking for one entity having expertise in 3D design, 3D scanning, and 3D printing fields and think3D fits the bill perfectly. We have seen various case studies they executed and are very excited about the value they bring to the park."

According to market intelligence solutions firm 6Wresearch, India's 3D printing market is expected to reach $62 million by the year 2022.

Posted in 3D Printer Company

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Jun 19, 2017 | By Benedict

The Technical University in Eindhoven in the Netherlands has started 3D printing an 8 m bicycle bridge in Gemert, near the city of Eindhoven. The university is carrying out the first-of-its-kind concrete 3D printing project with the Royal BAM Group, a Dutch construction company founded in 1869.

If theres anywhere in the world that needs a 3D printed bridge (or two), its the Netherlands. The European country is more than 18 percent water, and is known for its extensive canals and advanced water management systems that are designed to prevent floods and rising water levels. In fact, the countrys suitability for an experimental 3D printed bridge was highlighted two years ago, when Dutch startup MX3D announced plans to build a 3D printed steel bridge in Amsterdam.

That project appears to have stalled somewhat, but a new 3D printed bridge is now being built 80 miles south of Amsterdam near the Dutch city of Eindhoven.

This new bridge, which is being constructed in Eindhoven by the Technical University of Eindhoven and construction company BAM, will be made of printed, pre-stressed, and reinforced concrete, and will be used by cyclists to cross the Peelsche Loop, a canalized river in the town of Gemert. The bridge will measure eight meters long by 3.5 meters wide.

According to the university staff and BAM workers taking part in this exciting additive manufacturing project, the concrete bridge is to be 3D printed in several parts (eight one-meter sections) using a special concrete mortar, before being put together on-site. The 3D printed sections will be placed between two bridge heads and secured using heavy-duty cables.

Although there are many important elements in the construction of the 3D printed bridge, the workers believe that the special 3D printable mortar is key to the projects success. If you pour normal concrete, it runs away on all sides, said TU Eindhoven professor Theo Salet. That is the intention, so that it spreads well in the mold. But this is a very special material: if I lay it down, it stays in place. Compare it with toothpaste or mayonnaiseit does not lose form.

Salet added that the massive 3D printing project has been exciting for all involved, though he did point out that building the bridge has come with its own unique set of challenges. The professor called the experience stressful, since the first-of-its-kind structure must meet strict safety requirements.

A lot has been done to investigate how the material behaves and how it will behave if it forms a real construction, Salet said. So this step, from the laboratory to something that is used in practice, is very beautiful, but also stressful.

We have a worlds first here, added Marinus Schimmel, director of BAM. With 3D printing you have more flexibility regarding the shape of the product. In addition, 3D printing a bridge is also incredibly efficient: you need less concrete, but there is also no need for shuttering where the concrete is normally poured in. You just use exactly what you need, and there is no release of CO2 emissions.

The new 3D printed bridge will connect two existing routes in Gemert, the N605 and N272.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Jun 19, 2017 | By Tess

A researcher from the University of New Orleans has obtained a grant of $150,000 from the Louisiana Board of Regents to conduct research related to 3D printing materials. Damon Smith, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering, will use the funds to improve FDM 3D printing filaments through the addition of nanoparticles.

The goal of the research will be to develop new and improved 3D printing filaments that possess better mechanical and optical properties, which could open up new applications for FDM 3D printed parts and objects.

Assistant professor Damon Smith

Smith will be conducting the innovative research in the context of the University of New Orleans Advanced Materials Research Institute (AMRI), a 10,000-square-foot facility with over $9.5 million worth of advanced materials equipment and instrumentation. AMRIs research has a broad scope, with researchers pursuing projects related to drug delivery, thermal and electrical transport, nanofabrication, and more.

Smiths own research with AMRI will be geared towards materials for fused deposition modeling, a 3D printing process that involves depositing layers of melted plastic filament, fusing each layer together until the object is made. Although by far the most accessible 3D printing process because of its low running costs, FDM still has its limitations.

For instance, parts made using FDM 3D printing are generally not strong enough to be used for load-bearing applications and are not well suited for electronic devices or light detection tools due to their poor optical properties.

Through the addition of nanoparticles, Smith and his team will seek to create better FDM materials which could be used for the aforementioned applications. The goal is to find additive to the thermoplastic raw material currently sed in the process that are compatible with the existing technology and multiply the applications for the resulting products, said the university.

The $150,000 grant was given to Smith by the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund, which is aimed at strengthening the research competitiveness of Louisianaa public and private universities. According to the organization, funding is awarded to research projects which demonstrate potential for further funding on a national and federal level.

Grants are typically awarded within the fields of biology, chemistry, computer and information sciences, earth and environmental sciences, engineering, health, and medical sciences. From our perspective, it will certainly be interesting to see what Smith and his team at AMRI develop in terms of 3D printing materialsan area constantly in need of improvements and additions.

Posted in 3D Printing Materials

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Jun 19, 2017 | By David

Spanish researchers are now one step closer to creating 3D printed bone and cartilage for patients, after the tissues were recently synthesized using the technology for the first time. This sees Spain keeping pace with developments weve previously reported on in various other places around the world, where 3D bio-printing is beginning to move out of the laboratory and become implemented more and more for transplants and other important surgical procedures.

The breakthrough was made by scientists and engineers at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, in collaboration with the Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC). Research in Spain has been progressing well in the bio-printing field recently, with 3D printed human skin tissue having already been mastered at the start of this year. 3D printed bone tissue should prove to be even more useful, particularly as a way of treating osteoporosis and other degenerative conditions, and it will also lessen the need to use animals as laboratory test subjects.

The bone and cartilage tissue bio-printing process that has been pioneered makes use of a 3D printed grid, made of polycaprolactone (PCL). After being extracted from existing tissue, a patients cells can be implanted in this grid with a needle that is attatched to the printer head. These cells then start to reproduce in the PCL grid, forming the required tissue. There are two ways this tissue can be implanted in the patient. One is to place the grid with the patient's cells in the fracture of the bone or cartilage, so that they regenerate inside the body. The other is based on the creation of an ecosystem in the laboratory for the cells to reconstruct the tissue, which is then implanted in the patient. Using the patients own cells for the 3D printed tissue means that they are much less likely to be rejected by the host body, and existing metal prosthetics will be gradually phased out and replaced as the bio-printing process becomes properly implemented in medical treatment.

The technology used in this bio-printing research was donated by Spanish electronics firm BQ. Its products have already been used by several other research projects in the scientific and medical sectors that are taking advantage of 3D printing technology and the benefits it can provide. A Hephestos 2 and a Witbox 2 were provided by the company along with extended technical support and assistance. Despite the advanced nature of this biological research and the potentially high stakes involved, neither of these machines are particularly high-end products, with the Hephestos 2 being aimed at a DIY, non-professional market and available for a little over 1000 Euros. The success of the bio-printing research proves how far mid-range 3D printing technology has advanced in recent years, and highlights the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and the key role that electronics manufacturers like BQ could play in the future of scientific research of all kinds.

The Universidad Complutense de Madrid and CSICs research is still ongoing, with the experimental procedure still needing to clear various checks and tests before it can be used on real patients. The phase of clinical trials will hopefully reached in 2 years time.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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by Genese Sodikoff

The story of kuru is a classic one in anthropology and medicine. Called the "laughing death" in the Australian newspapers, the disease swept over the Fore population of Papua New Guinea's eastern highlands over the course of the 20th century, peaking in the late '50s and early '60s.

Victims experienced body aches and instability at first. They'd become emotionally labile, trembling and laughing involuntarily. Gradually, they lost control of bodily functions and the ability to swallow or stand. Their bodies wasted away, immobile until death, which could occur anytime between six months to a year after the onset of symptoms.

For decades, scientists were stumped as to how it spread. The usual signs of an infectious agent were not apparent, yet people were dying by the hundreds every year. The disease struck mostly adult women and young children. Women died of kuru at approximately three times the rate of men, leaving hamlets bereft of mothers and wives. It was a "demographic emergency," explains anthropologist Shirley Lindenbaum, who began research among the South Fore people at the height of the kuru epidemic in the early 1960s. As she describes in her 1979 book, Kuru Sorcery: Disease and Danger in the New Guinea Highlands, the Fore blamed the deaths on malevolent sorcery. They believed sorcerers were pushing them toward the brink of extinction.

I have been writing here about the anthropology of zoonosis, disease that spills over from animal to human. Zoonotic diseases interest me in part because they trouble our sense of species boundaries, or reproductive and even immunological divides. The lines of class difference (Mammalia, I mean) sometimes seem thinly sketched.

Kuru was not zoonotic-quite the opposite. It was a disease borne of cannibalism.

We now know that kuru was a prion disease, akin to Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, a human variant of "mad cow." Outbreaks of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease have come from eating infected beef. Cattle have gotten Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy from eating infected offalthat is, beef body tissues.

The ultimate source of kuru may have been nonhuman, but it's equally possible the disease manifested spontaneously in a human being. In this regard, kuru, like mad cow disease, suggests the good of imposing a taxonomic order and establishing rules to avoid danger: like ought not eat like.

The story of kuru has all the elements of page-turning novel: A mysterious disease ravages a "Stone Age tribe" in a colonial outpost; Western scientists endure harsh conditions sleuthing for answers; medicine advances by leaps and bounds. And cannibalism!

Medical research on kuru earned Nobel Prizes for two distinguished scientists. Carleton Gajdusek, in 1966, successfully inoculated chimpanzees with biological matter from human kuru victims, showing that the disease was transmissible via an infectious agent and that it had a long incubation period. Stanley Prusiner isolated and identified the infectious agent, a misfolded protein he dubbed a "prion" in 1982.

Here's the problem. The way the kuru story has usually been told in popular media and scientific publications has been misleading with regard to an important fact. That this fact is not well-known beyond the insular world of academe annoys me enough to state it outright. It has to do with the suppression of anthropology's role in cracking the kuru case. What do I mean?

Take a look at Carleton Gajdusek's (sadly ignominious) Wikipedia page. It states, "Gajdusek connected the spread of the disease to the practice of funerary cannibalism by the South Fore."

This claim appears frequently in popular and scientific accounts. And Gajdusek has not been the sole kuru researcher who has either taken ownership of the discovery that cannibalism spread kuru, or has had the discovery attributed to him by others.

To put it bluntly, Shirley (Glasse) Lindenbaum and her late husband Robert Glasse were the ones who found compelling evidence that cannibalism caused kuru, and scientists have been taking credit ever since.

I met with Shirley Lindenbaum in her Upper West Side flat a few weeks ago. She served me tea and biscuits (she is Australian), and we sat down to discuss her fieldwork among the South Fore, and the reasons why anthropology has been shortchanged in the public history of kuru.

Gender partly explains the skewed coverage of who discovered what in New Guinea in the 1960s. I can attest that Shirley Lindenbaum is not one to muscle her way into the limelight. She is generous and unassuming, a believer in collaborative knowledge, a data-sharer. She has not made a fuss about others taking credit.

Disciplinary cultures also come into play. The world of hard science is male-dominated and cutthroat competitive. Well, that is the view from anthropology. Hard science offers high-stakes rewards (social scientists do not win Nobel Prizes).

Scientists, in turn, have often regarded cultural anthropology as soft, "unscientific." Many don't have a clear idea what cultural anthropologists actually do. We do not dig up artifacts and skeletons or analyze the shards of Homo's progenitors. We do ethnography. We talk to people in their own language on their own turf, living amongst them, asking questions, having conversations, participating in their lives, and taking copious notes.

To be fair, not every popular account of kuru ignores the anthropological contribution to kuru research. Last year, NPR did a broadcast on Lindenbaum's kuru research, and Bill Schutt's excellent new book, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History includes a chapter on kuru that gets the story right. He describes the insights of the Glasses and other anthropologists in the region, including Ronald and Catherine Berndt and Jerome Whitfield.

Lindenbaum admires Schutt's book and only takes issue with a minor error. That is where Schutt writes that he was struck, and somewhat troubled, by an analogy Lindenbaum made during their conversation together, an analogy between sex and cannibalism that he had encountered many times before.

The analogy is a response to skeptics who doubted the existence of cannibalism because no anthropologist had ever witnessed it firsthand. The retort then goes: "There's a lot of things we haven't seen firsthandsexual intercourse among them." Which is to say, just because you don't see something, does not mean it isn't going on.

Curious about where this dictum originated, Schutt traced the first use of this analogy back to an article by Jared Diamond in 2000 (who is not an anthropologist but a geographer). However, Lindenbaum had actually used it in her 1982 review of William Arens' influential 1979 book, The Man-Eating Myth: Anthropology and Anthropophagy.

Arens' book discredited the scholarship of cannibalism, so Lindenbaum, who worked among people who practiced cannibalism and died from it, was making a rejoinder to Arens' baseless attack. He was vocal in his skepticism of the Glasses' kuru discovery, certain that mortuary cannibalism in Papua New Guinea was a myth.

Arens argued that cannibalism had never been a custom in any society and occurred only in rare, extenuating circumstances. He believed cannibalism to be a convenient lie invented by Westerners about exotic "natives," as well as by different ethnic or cultural groups denigrating their enemies or other groups. Anthropologists, he claimed, were gullible. They believed the insults that various societies hurled at others were true.

The acceptance of Arens' argument by scholars and the public put anthropologists in a difficult position. Anthropologists were already reluctant to talk about the practice of cannibalism for fear of casting a bad light on the people they studied. Anthropology's code of ethics involves protecting the people we study from harm. Scholarship on cannibalism was attacked from without by the Arens camp, and within, by anthropologists' inner qualms about reinforcing Westerners' prejudices against remote indigenous societies. Cannibalism, Lindenbaum explained, "has a flavor of primitivism about it that [anthropologists] didn't want to acknowledge."

Arens was not only wrong in saying that cannibalism had never existed. He also wrongly claimed that no outsider had ever witnessed it. The Glasses, it was true, did not observe cannibalism because it had ended by the time they got to the South Fore territory. The Fore talked about it though as a tradition of their own. The practice had been outlawed by the colonial state in 1959 but continued clandestinely to some degree for a couple of years.

But Carleton Gajdusek witnessed it and had photographs to prove it.

Lindenbaum saw his pictures at a kuru conference held in London in 2008. Both Lindenbaum and Gajdusek had invited a group of Papua New Guineans they had known in the 60s to attend the event. During his presentation, Gajdusek showed slides of his earlier research days among the Fore. At the time, he had stumbled into group of people "just half-way through the consumption of a human being." Lindenbaum recalls a couple of the color slides.

They showed "pieces of the corpse still left over, and there was just shock in the room among the Papua New Guineans there. These were people who knew their parents had consumed, and that they had a bad name among people as cannibals. It's not true that nobody ever saw it."

Given what he witnessed, it's curious that Gajdusek was ever resistant to the possibility that cannibalism transmitted kuru. He was initially partial to Henry Bennet's genetic hypothesis, which held that Fore women had a dominant gene for kuru. Bennet, from the University of Adelaide, was the one who sponsored the Glasses' research on Fore kinship.

Lindenbaum and her husband often saw Gajdusek during their research in the eastern highlands. They spent many enjoyable hours together socializing and debating kuru's cause. Gajdusek rejected their cannibalism hypothesis, and by then he also doubted the genetic hypothesis. He believed kuru to be infectious, caused by a "slow and unconventional virus" transmitted through infected bodily fluids that got into open cuts and wounds. Gradually he would come around to accept the cannibalism theory wholeheartedly.

The Glasses' use of ethnographic methods illuminated details about Fore society and their complex kinship organization that Gajdusek could not have perceived. They also mapped the direction of kuru's spread over the landscape.

The Glasses collected data about marriages, separations, births, deaths, and adoptions, the dates of life events, and the sex of offspring. They compiled the data in detailed kinship charts (see image), which put into sharp relief kuru deaths by gender and over generations.

What the Glasses could see on their charts was that no one born after 1960 acquired kuru, but many who had eaten infected human flesh as children got kuru as adults. As Gajdusek thought, the disease could remain latent for many years; its manifestation in adulthood appears to have been tied to how much infected meat was eaten in one's lifetime.

The Glasses' kinship chart shows the disproportionate number of adult female deaths. Females are represented by circles, males by triangles, and the filled-in shapes depict death by kuru. Over time, looking at the chart from top to bottom, you can see the equalization of death by gender and then the fading out of kuru deaths.

How was it that male and female deaths by kuru equalized over time? Lindenbaum explained that young girls and boys between the ages of 5 and 10 years old would have consumed equal amounts of infected meat (unwittingly given to them by their mothers) just before the end of cannibalism. I should say that for the South Fore, eating one's kin was an act of care and affection, a means of protecting their spirits.

At the age of 10, boys were obliged to move out of their childhood home and into the "men's house," at which point they no longer ate human flesh. Men did not partake in cannibalism. But girls remained home, helping their mothers with domestic labor, attending funerals, and eating people. They therefore received higher doses of infected meat, resulting in higher rates of kuru infection later on.

Arens' book, The Man-Eating Myth, essentially denied the validity of the data linking cannibalism to kuru. He endlessly attacked Lindenbaum for being gullible. Lindenbaum concedes that he was indeed correct in saying that people have historically called others monsters and cannibals. But then he "overdid it," seeing every expression of cannibalism in the anthropological literature as false.

Knowing the specifics of South Fore's expression of cannibalismall the social and cultural details of who consumed or did not consume whom, and how, when, and whywere not incidental to discoveries about transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Scientists had pointed the anthropologists toward Fore kinship in search of an elusive gene. What the Glasses then discovered about kinship in all its specificity, including the responsibilities of kin toward the living and the dead, oriented the gaze of the scientists, enabling the scientific breakthroughs that followed.
by Misha Lepetic

"These are the guys that were

too tough for the chain gang."

~ Bomber

Back in the mists of time, at the dawn of the World Wide Web, the promise of an open, decentralized, disaggregated network seemed to stretch limitlessly past the horizons of doubt and cynicism. Most iconically, John Perry Barlow's A Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace began with the stirring, uh, rejection: "Governments of the Industrial World, you weary giants of flesh and steel, I come from Cyberspace, the new home of Mind. On behalf of the future, I ask you of the past to leave us alone. You are not welcome among us. You have no sovereignty where we gather."

Suffice to say, this stern invocation has not aged well. For one thing, Barlow's declaration is merely concerned with governments, and doesn't mention corporations. Perhaps this was because Barlow delivered these remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in 1996, and the matter required a certain deference. Perhaps he was under the sway of the idea  fashionable at the time  that history had indeed ended, with democracy and neoliberalism the unquestioned victors. Perhaps corporations, and capital generally, were not such a matter of concern twenty years ago as they are today. Nevertheless, in only a few years, the Wild West promise of the Web led to the giant pile-on of capital that would fuel the first dotcom bubble and its subsequent collapse, around 2001.

The resurrection of internet entrepreneurship following that first, intemperate bender resulted in a different model, with a somewhat subtler promise. Web 2.0', as it was popularized circa 2004, was premised on the idea that information was no longer static, and that participants could interact with content, and that content could be assembled, on the fly, for a specific viewer. A bit further behind the scenes, Web 2.0 benevolently assumed a rich ecosystem of application programming interfaces that would allow for seamless communication of data requests between platforms that were burgeoning with information. You can think of an API as recipe book for how to interact with a given site's data, or a membrane that allows certain requests and not others.

So our notion of the Web was abstracted upwards, from scrappy libertarians doing whatever they wanted in some curiously disembodied space, to one that was more about to giving platforms the freedom they needed to interact with one another. This had several consequences (and I realize that I am being very simplistic here, but bear with me for the sake of the subsequent argument). On the one hand, the stage was set for the evolution of social media networks, which are more or less the ne plus ultra of Web 2.0. On the other, and inseparable from the first, was the growth of the vast and unregulated infrastructure that tracked users' online behavior.

Eventually, most every click, transaction and purchase would come to be harvested, mostly for the benefit of targeted advertising, but, following Edward Snowden's 2013 revelations of NSA surveillance, who is to say for what other purposes? In any event, it's not unreasonable to posit that your data has been bought and sold many, many times over the course of, say, the last decade, if not longer, and this is not changing any time soon.

It should also be mentioned that, in the course of the growth of social media, the previous notion of the open Web' was utterly and decisively sacrificed. Alexis Madrigal's recent Atlantic piece goes into greater detail:

In June of 2007, the iPhone came out. Thirteen months later, Apple's App Store debuted. Suddenly, the most expedient and enjoyable way to do something was often tapping an individual icon on a screen. As smartphones took off, the amount of time that people spent on the truly open web began to dwindle By 2013, Americans spent about as much of their time on their phones looking at Facebook as they did the whole rest of the open web Most of the action [now] occurs within platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and messaging apps, which all have carved space out of the open web.

Of course, being beholden to these giants means not just conducting the majority of one's online activities within the confines of a handful of sites. It also means that these sites are positioned to continue capturing the lion's share of revenue from these activities. As Madrigal notes, at the launch of the iPhone, five companies (Apple, Microsoft, Google, Facebook and Amazon) were worth $577 billion. Today, that value, in the form of market capitalization, is nearly $3 trillion.

*

Obviously, this is good news if you're a shareholder, or an employee (or both). It's not such good news, however, if you're an entrepreneur looking to build out the next innovative Web-based business. A startup's success depends on its eventual conversion to profitability, or its acquisition of sufficient market share, leading to a buyout. In both cases, the current context, where five companies set the terms for what is desirable scale, creates a paradox for startups: how to create sufficient momentum, when so much of consumers' attention seems to have been alreay acquired and walled off by those charmingly known as the Five Horsemen'.

Fortunately, John Perry Barlow's libertarian ghost has never ceased haunting the circuitry of our global cyber-substrate. Not long after the launch of the iPhone, an anonymous coder going by the moniker Satoshi Nakamoto proposed BitCoin, or more accurately, the BitCoin protocol. Nakamoto, whose true identity may or may not have been revealed, intimated that he had achieved one of libertarianism's holy grails: the divorce of currency from government-or, for that matter, any institution. To do this, he welded together two separate concepts: the idea that computers would generate currency by performing calculations, and that the record of ensuing transactions of that currency would be held in common (animations always help here).

The first bit, known as mining', is fairly easy to explain if we use the example of frequent flier miles. A traveler puts in a bid at a fixed price for a ticket and flies with the airline that awarded the bid. In return, the traveler earns a number of points, which can then be used to redeem discounts or free tickets for further travel. However, in this case the points are only applicable within the ecosystem of that airline  you can't transfer points to another airline, nor can you sell your points on an open, secondary market. BitCoin extends that model significantly.

The second bit is much more interesting, and may in fact point to the next big paradigm shift in the battle of who owns' the World Wide Web. This is the record of ensuing transactions, or, in BitCoin terms, the distributed ledger'. In order to ensure that BitCoin remains autonomous, Nakamoto proposed that all transactions of the BitCoin system be held in common, throughout the same network of machines that are performing the mining function mentioned above. All transactions are visible, even while each transaction's participants are anonymous. As long the ledger sitting on every node matches up with every other node's copy, the system holds and BitCoin remains in business. No central authority is required  the network itself is the clearinghouse. And anyone can join the network and support the blockchain.

This technology is known as the blockchain', simply because, after a certain period of time, each newly generated block of completed transactions is appended, or chained, to the preceding series of transaction blocks. Thus the entire history of the system resides on the system, available for inspection by any of its members. This entire arrangement is made possible by the confluence of a number of factors: the deployment of some clever cryptography that ensures anonymity; and the ever-decreasing costs for bandwidth, storage and processing power that enable computing to occur on a planetary scale.

Where it gets interesting is when blockchain technology is deployed beyond currency applications. To be clear, the blockchain is insufficient by itself  even if we are looking at applications that are not financial in nature, there still has to be a system of incentives in place, incentives that will entice individuals to join, participate and grow the network. So while one of BitCoin's primary concerns is navigating the interface between the generation and transaction of virtual currency with the translation of that currency into other forms of currency, such as dollars or yen, other applications of blockchain can be incentivized by purely internal and abstract tokens'. These tokens, earned or bought in much the same way that BitCoin is earned or bought, buys the rights to do things within the network. In a way, this is not dissimilar to our frequent flier example above  you earn the right for additional travel, but only within the context of the awarding system.

How does this fit into the earlier discussion, where I was bemoaning the loss of the open Web' to the platform tyrannies of Amazon, et al? If we're to go by their proponents, these new token networks' are exactly the cure for the trend of enclosure to which the Internet has been subject for the past decade. Thanks to the blockchain, recordkeeping can be anonymous, secure and decentralized. And thanks to tokens, incentives exist for individuals and groups to join the network and participate in its growth. The more valuable the network, the more actors will want to join  and the more valuable that network's token will become.

Moreover, the rules are clear to anyone who wants to join, and no participant need worry about any central authority suddenly deciding to change the terms of service, or siphoning off fees or data to enrich shareholders who are really silent partners in an outdated rent-seeking scenario. Like anything else, policy is determined by the network. So it's easier to now see that token networks may be the most substantial challenge to the corporatist model of how the internet has evolved lately. At its most gloriously imagined, such a network virtually runs itself (in both senses of the term). All the trappings of corporate continuity, such as boards of directors, shareholder meetings and such, are eliminated. At least, that's how it's supposed to work.

All of this sounds terribly abstract, and I realize that I still haven't suggested what such a token network is supposed to do. It's difficult enough to wrap one's head around how BitCoin works in the first place, and when you remove the conceptual comfort that the notion of currency' provides, it's not easy to divine what purpose this might have, except for perhaps separating Silicon Valley venture capitalists from their own, in fact very real, money (always a possibility). It's also valid to ask, How much of a fringe phenomenon is this? Will it really make a tangible difference in people's lives, or the economy in general? Or will it be yet another flash in the pan, breathlessly promoted by an increasingly out-of-touch tech culture that can't seem to propose solutions to anything remotely approaching a real-world problem?

Next month I'll look into these concerns, as well as examine a few examples of non-monetary token networks. I'll also examine the larger issues at stake, and speculate on how token networks might collide with the more established social, economic and especially political worlds. Until then, please consider these words from John Perry Barlow's manifesto, which actually have aged rather well: "In our world, all the sentiments and expressions of humanity, from the debasing to the angelic, are parts of a seamless whole, the global conversation of bits. We cannot separate the air that chokes from the air upon which wings beat."
If you are missing the experience of being a grandparent, whether it's because your grandchildren are far away or you just don't have any, there is another option available to you: Surrogate grandparenting.

Surrogate grandparents take on the social role of grandparents for nearby children (and sometimes, for adults), to the benefit of both parties. For example, as reported earlier this week by HuffPost Canada, 57-year-old Margaret Nipshagen reached out about two weeks ago to offer herself as a surrogate. She did that by publishing a post in Bunz Helping Zone, a private Facebook group that, as the name suggests, specializes in helping people.

"I know it sounds strange, but I don't have any relatives in Canada & nothing would make me more happy than a Bunz to 'adopt' me! I'm close to 60, relatively healthy (I have Asthma but it's not a big issue), positive, jovial, good around pets & have a 'love and be loved' attitude. Anyone? Lots of love, wisdom to give in my 'older' years! Tia!" the post stated.



Nipshagen has no relatives in Canada other than her 17-year-old son, and she said she felt her life was falling too much into a routine  something she hoped the post would change.

To say it did would be an understatement. Nipshagen received dozens of responses and hundreds of Facebook 'likes,' according to HuffPost Canada. The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. profiled her, and suddenly, she was a potential surrogate grandmother to dozens of people.

"I was on a never-ending treadmill of going to work, coming home, watching Netflix, and not doing much else. I felt disconnected from the world, isolated and quite frankly, a bit lonely," she told the CBC. "I had a sense of not being useful or purposeful in this life and so I decided to do something about it and reach out to others to see if I could offer them company, or advice, or a tiny bit of wisdom, laughter, or insight over a cup of tea or coffee, or dinner."
US judge blocks President Biden's student debt forgiveness plan

The injunction is the second to block the president's signature program, which could cut or eliminate student loan debt for up to 40 million people.


Update on Media Intelligence Co. Pty Ltd

Melbourne, June 19, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Xped Limited ( ASX:XPE ) ("Xped" or "the Company") provides the following update in respect of Media Intelligence Co. Pty Ltd.



Xped acquired an indirect interest in Media Intelligence Co. on 22 May 2017, when it acquired Jemsoft Pty Ltd on the same date. Media Intelligence Co. focuses on media measurement technologies and real-time media research solutions and is a partially owned subsidiary of Jemsoft. Xped's focus was on acquiring a 100% interest in Jemsoft (details regarding Jemsoft were set out in the Company's announcements of 11 May 2017), with that acquisition bringing additional technical expertise and resources of Jemsoft in house. Xped also believe there may be benefit in working with Media Intelligence Co. to expand Xped's offerings.



Following an additional issue of shares in Media Intelligence Co. to Jemsoft, Xped now holds an indirect interest (via 100% owned Jemsoft) in 56% of the shares in Media Intelligence Co.



Information regarding Media Intelligence Co. was included in the Company's announcements made on 11 May 2017. Xped has now been advised by Media Intelligence Co. that Dr Karen Nelson-Field has resigned as CEO of Media Intelligence Co., and that Dr Nelson-Field has been engaged by the board of Media Intelligence Co. on a consultancy basis until September 2017 to assist in the delivery of the Think TV project. Dr Nelson-Field remains a director of Media Intelligence Co.



As previously announced Media Intelligence Co. has been contracted to deliver the Think TV project. The project is for an initial 2 year term (commencing August 2016) with an option for the parties to agree to extend. Either party can terminate the contract on 3 months' notice. There is a fee of $500,000 per annum payable to Media Intelligence Co. with an ability for Media Intelligence Co. to potentially access further research funding of between $1 - $2 million per annum, subject to submission and tender. Xped understands that Media Intelligence Co. seek to develop further business opportunities to generate additional ongoing revenue and further details in this regard will be announced as required in due course.



Xped remains committed to working proactively with the Media Intelligence Co. team moving forward to the benefit of all shareholders of Media Intelligence Co.





About XPED Ltd





XPED Ltd (ASX:XPE) is an Australian Internet of Things (IoT) technology business. Xped has developed revolutionary and patent-protected technology that allows any consumer, regardless of their technical capability, to connect, monitor and control devices and appliances found in our everyday environment. Xped provides technology solutions for Smart Home, Smart Building, and Healthcare.

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Broad Zone of Copper Sulphides at Stark

Adelaide, June 19, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Mithril Resources Ltd ( ASX:MTH ) is pleased to advise that diamond hole NDD17002, the first hole drilled to test the new M1 EM conductor at the southern end of the Stark Copper Nickel Prospect (located 80 kms SE of Meekatharra, WA - see Figure 1 in the link below), has intersected 30 metres (see Note below) of disseminated, blebby, matrix, semi-massive and massive copper (chalcopyrite) and iron (pyrrhotite) sulphide mineralisation from 248 metres downhole, at the modelled conductor depth (see Figures 2 and 3 in the link below).



- 30 metres (downhole width) of disseminated, blebby, matrix, semi - massive and massive copper sulphides intersected in first drill hole testing new EM conductor at southern end of Stark Copper Nickel Prospect



- Drilling continuing at Stark with a second new EM conductor currently being tested



- Geological logging underway with final assays expected in July



NDD17002 extends the Stark Trend significantly to the south and demonstrates that the M1 conductor is related to copper sulphide mineralisation.



It is one of three diamond holes being drilled at Stark and the adjacent Nanadie Well Copper Deposit (2004 JORC Code Compliant Inferred Resource of 36.07Mt @ 0.42% copper, 0.064 g/t gold estimated by Intermin Resources Limited ( ASX:IRC ) in 2013) to test the significance of new bedrock EM conductors ("M1" and "M3") at Stark and to better understand the geological setting of the Nanadie Well deposit.



An earlier hole - NDD17001, was drilled at the Nanadie Well Copper Deposit (see Figure 4 in the link below) and intersected multiple intervals of disseminated copper sulphide mineralisation over 10's of metres between 50.6 metres to 170.55 metres* with several internal zones (3 - 5 metres*) of vein and stringer copper sulphide mineralisation.



At the time of writing, drilling was continuing and hole NDD17003 designed to test the M3 EM conductor at Stark was underway (see Figures 4 and 5 in the link below).



Geological logging of diamond drill core continues with final assay results expected in July. The Company looks forward to updating the market with new information on the results as they become available.



About the Stark Copper Nickel Prospect and the Nanadie Well Copper Deposit



The Nanadie Well Deposit and Stark lie on tenements subject to a Farmin and Joint Venture Agreement (Nanadie Well Joint Venture) with Intermin Resources Limited ( ASX:IRC ). Under the terms of the joint venture, Mithril can earn a 60% interest in the tenements by completing expenditure of $2M by 14 April 2019, and an additional 15% by completing further expenditure of $2M over a further 2 years.



Intermin Resources Limited estimated a 2004 JORC Code Compliant Inferred Resource for the Nanadie Well Copper Deposit in September 2013 (see Intermin's ASX Announcement "Initial Resource Estimate for the Nanadie Well Cu-Au Project" dated 19 September 2013).



The information pertaining to the Nanadie Well Copper Deposit Inferred Resource was prepared and first disclosed by Intermin under the JORC Code 2004. It has not been updated since to comply with the JORC Code 2012 on the basis that the information has not materially changed since it was last reported.



The Inferred Resource is within a few meters of the surface and has been defined over 1 kilometre strike length, 50 - 150 metres (true width) and to a maximum depth of 220. The deposit remains open in all directions and lies within a broader 2 kilometres long mineralised zone that has been identified by wide spaced reconnaissance drilling.



Nanadie Well's prospectivity is further enhanced by the presence a second parallel copper and nickel - mineralised trend 1,000 metres east called the Stark prospect.



Refer to Mithril's ASX Announcements "Drilling extends Cu-Ni-PGE massive sulphides at Stark" dated 21 December 2015, and "Priority copper-nickel-targets at Stark" dated 1 June 2015 for further information on the Stark Prospect.



Note: Downhole widths used throughout this Report



To view tables and figures, please visit:

http://abnnewswire.net/lnk/11SV9I8Z





About Mithril Resources Limited





Mithril Resources Limited (ASX:MTH) is an Australian resources company whose objective is the creation of shareholder wealth through the discovery of mineral deposits.

The Company and its exploration partners are actively exploring throughout the Kalgoorlie, West Kimberley and Murchison Districts of Western Australia for economic nickel, copper, zinc, and vanadium deposits.

In the Kalgoorlie District, Mithril is exploring for nickel on the Kurnalpi, Lignum Dam and North Scotia Projects which lie along strike from, or adjacent to previously mined high-grade nickel at the Silver Swan and Scotia Nickel Deposits.

In the West Kimberley, Mithril is exploring for zinc on the Billy Hills Project which lies adjacent to the previously mined Pillara Zinc Deposit.

In the Murchison, Mithril is exploring for copper, nickel and zinc mineralisation on the Nanadie Well Project and for copper, silver, zinc and lead on the Bangemall Base Metal Project. Mithril's exploration partner  Monax Mining Ltd is also exploring for vanadium on the Limestone Well tenements.


Kidston Solar Phase One 50MW Update

Sydney, June 19, 2017 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Genex Power Limited ( ASX:GNX ) (Genex or Company) is pleased to provide shareholders with this latest update regarding the construction program for the Company's Phase One 50MW Kidston Solar Project (KSP1 or Project).



Genex is pleased to report that the construction of KSP1 continues to remain on-time and on-budget for anticipated first generation in Q4 2017 and Practical Completion in Q1 2018. Key activities since the last update (refer ASX announcement 15 May 2017) include:



- Continued installation of solar modules across the KSP1 site;



- Continued installation of the piles which form the base for the poles and frames upon which the solar panels are mounted;



- Continued installation of the NEXTracker module framing system which also includes the single axis tracking system for tracking the sun's movement and to ensure the modules capture optimal solar radiation levels;



- Completion of the Ergon Kidston switchyard civil works;



- Continuation of the Ergon Kidston electrical equipment installation works;



- Installation of the solar farm substation earth-grid; and



- Completion of site clearing.



Commenting on the continued successful progress of the Company's 50MW solar project, Managing Director of Genex Power, Michael Addison said:



"We are pleased to report that construction continues to remain on-time and on-budget. The project continues to tick off major milestones that will allow us to reach first generation by Q4 2017. The installation of panels is fantastic to see, depicting not only the rapid progression of the development but also the scale of the project.



With work progressing strongly on KSP1, the Company is now focussing on our Stage Two Projects being the integrated 270MW Solar and 250MW Pumped Hydro Projects. The recent announcement by the Queensland Government (refer Genex ASX announcement 05 June 2017), to fund a feasibility study into, amongst other pieces of infrastructure, the construction of a 275kV transmission line in Northern Queensland which incorporates Genex's Stage Two projects, has the potential to significantly de-risk these projects and enables us to accelerate development plans."



The Federal Government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency has provided $8.9 million funding to support the construction of the $126M Project at Genex's Kidston Solar Farm.



To view figures, please visit:

http://abnnewswire.net/lnk/09QUCFJM





About Genex Power Ltd





Genex Power Limited (ASX:GNX) is focused on developing a portfolio of renewable energy generation and storage projects across Australia. The Company's flagship Kidston Clean Energy Hub, located in north Queensland, will integrate large-scale solar generation with pumped storage hydro. The Kidston Clean Energy Hub is comprised of the operating 50MW stage 1 Solar Project (KS1) and the 250MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project (K2-Hydro) with potential for further multi-stage wind and solar projects. The 50MW Jemalong Solar Project (JSP) is located in NSW and provides geographical diversification to the Genex Power Limited portfolio. JSP was energised in early December 2020 and commissioning is now underway. Genex is further developing its energy storage portfolio via the early stage development of a 50MW/75MWh standalone battery energy storage system at Bouldercombe in Queensland. With over 400MW of renewable energy and storage projects in development, Genex is well placed as Australia's leading renewable energy and storage company.
Gaining Foothold along "the Belt and Road"

At the ongoing Expo 2017 in Astana, the leading Chinese automaker JAC Motors and its Kazakhstani distributor showcased three models: the S3, the iEV6S and the iEV5. Echoing the theme of China Pavilion, Future Energy, Green Silk Road, JAC also took the opportunity to exhibit their latest green energy vehicle technologies and concepts.

Making a mark in Kazakhstan

As an important nation along the corridor, Kazakhstan connects China with Central Europe via the Belt and Road economic zone. The country covers a large region of Central Asia and Eastern Europe and is one of JACs most valuable markets. In March 2015, with the blessing of Chinas Premier Li Keqiang and Kazakhstans Premier Karim Masimov, JAC and its distributor Allur Group, officially signed the KD assembly licensing agreement. As per the agreement, Allur Group, a Kazakhstan automotive company, will be responsible for the assembly of all JAC cars. By signing this agreement, JAC is expected to meet the demands in Russia and neighboring countries and regions and ultimately reach an annual production of 50,000 units.

Following the successful signing of the agreement, on November 3rd, 2016, the premiers of both China and Kazakhstan witnessed the start of another exciting production cooperation project between the two countries via remote video connection at the JAC plant in Kazakhstan. This established JAC as a shining example of a successful independent Chinese automobile company along "the Belt and Road" economic zone.

Successes of "the Belt and Road" Initiative

Utilizing the development opportunities of the "Belt and Road" initiative, JAC has exported products to more than half of the 60 participating countries. In 2016, more than 35,000 units were delivered along "the Belt and Road", making up 62% of JACs exports. During the first five months in 2017, JAC exported 21,000 units to the area, making up 66% of all JAC exports.

Thanks in part to their strong investment in R&D, JAC has won the favor of Kazakhstani customers with sales increase of over 500% in 2016, winning No.1 market share among all Chinese brands in the country. In addition, On June 1st, JAC and Volkswagen signed a joint venture agreement in Berlin, Germany to fund JAC Volkswagen Automotive Co., Ltd. The collaboration seeks to further develop the new energy automobile market, once again highlighting JACs ambition to further develop their green energy technology.

To date, JAC has formed two joint ventures including Vietnam and established 9 KD assembly plants along the Silk Road Economic Belt, including in Iran and Kazakhstan, for the assembly of JAC light-duty trucks and passenger vehicles. As an active participant in "the Belt and Road" initiative, JAC will continue to provide transportation solutions for customers throughout the Silk Road Economic Belt, helping to establish a reputation of quality Chinese production.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170618005129/en/

JAC Motors

Crystal Feng, +86-551-62296885

jacmotors@jac.com.cn

http://jacen.jac.com.cn/showroom/s5.html
It is time to treat fire with fire. Women protesters joined the social media campaign and is misleading the Kashmir youth and thereby tarnishing the nations image. From now on women troops will deal with female protesters and it is good news. They could be tackled easily if we have enough strength of women officers and sizeable other rank and file cadre to corner such trouble shooters. In the past we were complacent in dealing with women protesters as there are number of restrictions in dealing with them as women are considered non-equals and known as weaker sex. So to treat them and pay them in their own coin women officers option is the best. Women are currently recruited in selective areas of the Army such as medical, legal, educational and engineering wings. Thus the army could deploy its first women combatants for operations, starting with military police and seeing the progress the wings will be extended to other fields as well. The disturbance in Kashmir valley is giving the army and CRPF hard times and we need to have more forces to hit upon our enemy at the right time and bring peace and harmony in the valley soon.

(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
The funds wont be going to the construction of new plants, but to reinforce product lines and provide more continuity for research and development. Specialization is the greatest weapon we have andas shown by our acquisition of the vaccine center in Siena we are aiming for excellence and looking to grow, he said.

US pharmaceutical giant GSK is planning to invest more than 1 billion in Italy over the next four years, according to Daniele Finocchiaro, CEO of GSK Italia.

Svegliati! (Wake up!) Quid pro quo in action. This is not a coincidence. Italy mandates vaccines and implements fines as vaccine manufacturer Glaxo promises more than a Billion Euro investment. Italians who are awake are already up in arms over the loss of healthcare liberty and penalties. Mass Protests Against Mandatory Vaccines in Rome  Some Parents Prepare to Leave Italy ### GlaxoSmithKline to invest more than 1 billion in Italy over four years

GSK current has revenues of 1 billion in Italy, 5,100 employees and a network of nine research centers, manufacturing plants and commercial offices. It is reviving the vaccine center in Rosia, in the city of Sovicille near Siena.

For GSK, Italy is a strategic country and the nation receiving the biggest chunk of resources outside the companys country of origin. When the purchase of Novartis vaccine business closed eight months ago, we doubled the number of employees and investments, adding the sites in Siena and nearby Rosia, he said.

GSK has confirmed plans to invest 50 million this year in Siena to build two new facilities, for production and quality control laboratories. The fresh funds follow previous investments in Siena-area facilities, in 2006 and 2014: 1.2 billion for research and development and 350 million for offices and manufacturing plants.

Growth in Siena was spurred by the meningitis B vaccine developed by a team led by scientist Rino Rappuoli, CEO of GSK Vaccines Italia, a division with 591 million in revenue in 201494% exportsand 2,880 employees from 43 nations.

To understand how much this sector has grown, just imagine that only 1,300 people worked here ten years ago, said Rappuoli.

This year, 94 milion vaccine doses will be manufactured in Siena and distributed to 78 countries. The Tuscan district has been named by GSK as one of the companys three centers of global excellence for vaccines is the only one producing meningitis vaccines, even if it hasn't yet reached its optimal level of efficiency.

The merging of the vaccine division of the former Novartis into GSK, seeking to avoid duplication, isnt over yet, said Finocchiaro. We have to create the most efficient possible structure in order for it to be sustainable in the long term. Thats why initially, in Italy, employment won't rise. Everyone has to make some sacrifices and today we are an entity that is creating wealth in the nation because we invest more than we earn.
NOTE: I know Julie Swanson and Jen Laviano from their dedication to special education rights here in Connecticut. If you've a child on an IEP, you know that districts are often at odds with your goals for your child. Often might even be an understatement. Jen and Julie walk you through the mirror into the real machinations of special ed, where budgets and allocations dictate services, and where the "I" in IEP stands for INTEREST of the district and not the INDIVIDUAL.



Written in a conversational style, you don't need to be a lawyer to understand how to learn and exercise your child's rights. Not the traditional summer read, I realize, but you'll be a better advocate and even the playing field after reading this book. Pre-order a copy today. It ships mid-August. Congrats to Jen and Julie and a big thank you to Skyhorse for publishing books so valuable to our community. K



Jennifer Laviano and Julie Swanson, a high-profile special education attorney and a special education advocate, tell parents of students with disabilities how to navigate their school system to get the services they need for their children.



The authors demystify the federal laws that govern the rights of public school children with disabilities and explain how school districts often ignore or circumvent these laws. They explain the often sordid politics of special education, exposing truths like the fact that teachers are under extraordinary pressure not to spend resources on costly services. Most importantly, they show parents how to get the services their children are entitled to and make the system work for them.



Many parents dont know they can:

Ask the school for an evaluation of their child

Get a second opinion if they disagree with the schools testing

Request parental counseling and training (to help understand their childs disability and child development, for example)

And so much more

Complete with checklists and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Your Special Education Rights provides parents with the substantive information they need and the practical strategies that work.
Assyrian-Americans From Iraq Disappointed With Trump

Standing in the living room of her brother's home in Sterling Heights, Lina Denha wipes away tears with a tissue as she recalls how federal agents arrested him early one Sunday morning this month. "To just come and grab him in front of his kids and family -- that's not right," she said of the June 11 detention of Haydar Butris, 38, one of 114 Iraqi immigrants with criminal records arrested in Michigan. "He's been here most of his life. He did a mistake. He paid for it. Now, he is a good father, has kids, a family. He works, pays taxes and everything. And you just come knock on the door, come out of nowhere and grab him? That's not right." Denha's sadness turns to frustration as she expresses disappointment with President Donald Trump, whom she and some other Iraqi-American Christians in Michigan had supported. Denha's sense of betrayal is echoed across metro Detroit among some Iraqi-American Christians who voted for Trump because they hoped he would be sympathetic to their community abroad, where they are a religious minority, and in the U.S. "We voted for Trump," Denha said. "That's what we get from him? ... Obama is better than him, 100 times." Trump portrayed himself as a "savior" to Iraqi Christians, said Sterling Heights attorney Wisam Naoum. While on the campaign trail, Trump said that he would work to protect Christians in the Middle East and increase the number of Christian refugees admitted from countries such as Syria and Iraq. Joseph Kassab, founder and president of the Iraqi Christians Advocacy and Empowerment Institute in West Bloomfield, speaks with Donald Trump before Trump's rally on Sept. 30, 2016, Friday. Kassab told Trump about the plight of Iraq's Christian minority population. (Photo: Joseph Kassab) During the campaign, some Iraqi-American Christian leaders met with Trump and his campaign officials, ultimately endorsing him and encouraging others to vote for him. "Chaldeans for Trump" signs appeared at Trump rallies in Michigan, referring to Iraqi Catholics. Now some Iraqi Christians say that Trump has failed to keep his promises and is actually worse than former President Barack Obama, whose administration in 2010 stopped the deportation of Iraq immigrants with criminal records after considering complaints from Chaldean leaders. In contrast this month, U.S. Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) is strongly defending its recent roundup of 199 Iraqi immigrants nationally (114 of them in metro Detroit) with criminal records. They said the Iraqis arrested were already facing final orders of removal from a judge and all but two were convicted of crimes, ranging from homicide and assault to less serious crimes like marijuana possession in the case of Butris. ICE suggests more arrests may come as there are hundreds of other Iraqi nationals with final orders of deportation. Trump "basically sold the community on the idea that he would protect their community in the homeland, that he would prioritize them, that he would be this savior of their people," Naoum said. "It hasn't been even a few months and he's betrayed them." At an Iraqi-American Christian rally Friday in Detroit, a man held a Christian cross and a sign that read "You Vowed To Protect Us," with a photo of Trump above a tweet from the president in January that read "we can't allow" Christians in the Middle East to be targeted. "You Vowed To Protect Us," reads sign with Trump photo at protest by Iraqi-American Christians on June 16, 2017, outside Patrick McNamara building in Detroit. The sign has copy of a tweet by Pres. Trump in January that reads "Christians in the Middle-East have been executed in large numbers. We cannot allow this horror to continue!" (Photo: Elaine Cromie, Detroit Free Press) Many of the Iraqis arrested recently in Michigan are Christian and worry they would be targeted if deported to Iraq, where they are a minority facing threats from extremist groups. Sending them to Iraq would be like a virtual death sentence and violates international treaties, advocates have said. Many legal actions have been filed, including one by the ACLU, to try to stop the deportation process. In addition to the arrests, Iraqi-American Christians say the Trump administration is ignoring the concerns of religious minorities in Iraq and is strongly supporting Saudi Arabia, which they say is responsible for groups like ISIS that target Christians. Lina Denha, of Sterling Heights, is concerned about the ICE detention on June 11, 2017, of her brother, Haydar Butris, 38, one of 114 Iraqi immigrants in Michigan arrested by ICE. She spoke on Monday, June 13, 2017, at her brother's home in Sterling Heights. She said she regrets supporting Trump. (Photo: Niraj Warikoo) Chaldeans, who are Iraqi Catholics, have been active in both the Democratic and Republican parties in Michigan. It's unclear what percentage of Iraqi-American Christians voted for President Trump since there are no presidential election polls specifically targeting that population, experts say. According to 2015 U.S. Census figures, there are 46,441 Michiganders with Assyrian/Chaldean/Syriac ancestry, three groups that are Iraqi-American Christian ethnicities. There are also an additional 31,863 people in Michigan who identify as having Iraqi ancestry, some of whom are Christian. Chaldean leaders say the Census undercounts their size in Michigan.Michigan also has a sizable Iraqi-American Muslim population, concentrated in Dearborn and Detroit. In Macomb and Oakland counties, where the Iraqi Christian population is more likely to be concentrated, many Chaldeans were enthusiastic for Trump, said Joseph Kassab, founder and president of the Iraqi Christians Advocacy and Empowerment Institute in West Bloomfield. Trump defeated Clinton in Macomb County by 53.6% to 42.1% while Clinton defeated Trump in Oakland County by 51.3% to 43.2%. "We supported him big time," said Kassab, who was part of the American-MidEast Coalition for Donald Trump. "First of all, we are conservative and conservatives are Republicans. And he said he will protect the Christians." Kassab said given the close election in Michigan, the votes of Middle Eastern Christians could have made a difference. Michigan has the highest percentage of Arab-Americans among states in the U.S., many of whom are Christian. Iraqi-American and Lebanese-American leaders at rally in Novi for Donald Trump on Sept. 30, 2016. Second on the left is Sam Yono. To his left is Sheikh Mohammad Al Hajj Hassan (wearing white turban), John Akouri, a Lebanese-American leader who is a former city councilman in Farmington Hills. Second man on Akouri's left side is Saad Abbo (with light blue shirt) of Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce. Further on his left is Rev. Anthony Kathawa (wearing priest collar), of St. Thomas Chaldean Church in West Bloomfield. On Kathawa's far left is Joseph Kassab of the Iraqi Christians Advocacy and Empowerment Institute in West Bloomfield. (Photo: Joseph Kassab) Kassab said that under the Obama administration, the percentage of refugees who were Christian from Syria was only about 4% over the past two years. A report on the conservative media outlet CSNews.com said that more than 99% of refugees admitted into the U.S. from Syria from January through October last year were Muslim, citing statistics from the State Department Obama officials said they would not admit refugees based on religion. Martin Manna, president of the Chaldean Community Foundation, said: "I think the majority (of Chaldeans) likely supported the president" in the November election. "They were frustrated with the previous administration because of their" perceived weak "response to the persecution of Christians by ISIS. They were looking for someone who would stand up for the rights of minorities." Like other Chaldeans, Kassab is upset over the potential deportations of the Iraqis, but he doesn't blame Trump. Joseph T. Kassab, 64, is the Founder and President of the Iraqi Christian Advocacy and Empowerment Institute. During the elections, Kassab was an active member of the Trump Coalition of the Middle Eastern community in Michigan. (Photo: Salwan Georges, Detroit Free Press) "It's not Trump who's having to kick out the Christians," Kassab said. "It's ICE under orders to deport people who don't have status. I don't think he singled out Christians. He singled out everybody who doesn't have the status." "But because this is a humanitarian situation, we don't want people to be sent back to Iraq. I will not trust the Iraqi government to protect the people. The Iraqi government is not fair, it's corrupted." In a statement last week, ICE said the arrests came about after a March 12 agreement with the government of Iraq. As part of the deal, Iraq said it would accept Iraqi nationals in the U.S. with criminal records who it had previously said it wouldn't admit. "As a result of recent negotiations between the U.S. and Iraq, Iraq has recently agreed to accept a number of Iraqi nationals subject to orders of removal," said ICE in a statement. "Since the March 12, 2017, agreement with the government of Iraq regarding removals, eight Iraqi nationals have been removed to Iraq. ICE focuses its enforcement resources on individuals who pose a threat to national security, public safety and border security." ICE said that no group of immigrants is immune from enforcement: "As (Department of Homeland Security) Secretary (John) Kelly has made clear, ICE will not exempt classes or categories of removable aliens from potential enforcement." On Wednesday, six U.S. House Representatives from Michigan -- Sander Levin, D-Royal Oak; Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn; John Conyers, D-Detroit; Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield; Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township, and John Moolenaar, R-Midland -- wrote a letter to Kelly requesting a copy of the March agreement between the U.S. and Iraq. The letter said that the Iraqis facing deportation would be harmed in Iraq, especially those who are Christian. "We accordingly request that you immediately send us a copy of the U.S. government's agreement with Iraq so we in Congress can review its terms and request that you inform us as to what specific measures are provided to ensure these individuals' safety and all other relevant information," read part of the letter. Contacted by the Free Press, spokesmen for the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, and State Department declined comment. The White House did not respond to questions from the Free Press about the agreement and concerns expressed by Iraqi-American Christians in Michigan. Chaldean leaders have said that some Republican congressmen in Michigan have been helpful in voicing concerns about the plight of Christians in Iraq. But on the recent arrests, the Republicans have not been as outspoken as the Democrats, said Chaldean leaders. Jeremiah Suleiman, of Sterling Heights, holds a sign among dozens during a rally to stop the deportation of Iraqi-American immigrants outside Patrick V. McNamara Federal building on Friday, June 16, 2017 in Detroit. (Photo: Elaine Cromie , Detroit Free Press) U.S. Rep. Dave Trott, R-Birmingham, who has previously issued statements on the plight of Iraqi Christians, did not sign the letter by the other U.S. representatives. Also, no Republican U.S. representative appeared at a rally Friday for the Iraqi detainees outside the federal McNamara building in Detroit attended by Levin and Lawrence, who have been outspoken against the detentions, Manna said. Trott and six other House Republicans did write a separate letter on Thursday to the national director of ICE, but it was not as critical of the arrests as the letter by the other U.S. representatives. "The people who voted for Donald Trump, they are very disappointed," said Dr. Jacoub Mansour of West Bloomfield, a longtime leader in the Chaldean community. "They didn't expect him to do that. I don't think in future elections, they will vote for him." Mike Sarafa, a Chaldean advocate from Bloomfield Hills, said that some in the Chaldean community who backed Trump thought the administration would not target them for deportations. "The community largely supported Trump and sometimes, you get what you asked for," Sarafa said. "When somebody has kind of reactionary tendencies, they're not bound by anything. So why people would have thought he would have targeted only Mexicans and Muslims, I'm not sure." Family photo of Haydar Butris with one of his daughters. Butris was detained on July 11, 2017, by ICE immigration agents and could be deported to Iraq. He is Christian and would face persecution there, said family members. (Photo: Family photo) Denha, the sister of Butris, one of the Iraqis detained, got some good news later in the week when ICE decided to allow him to stay in the U.S. until at least Aug. 10, when he will have a court hearing. Butris and other Iraqi nationals are currently in custody at an immigration detention center in Youngstown, Ohio. ICE said they all have criminal backgrounds, including Butris, who pleaded guilty in 1999 to possessing several pounds of marijuana. Denha is worried he could be deported to Iraq, a country he hasn't lived in since 1992, when he was a teenager. She said his three children, ages 3, 9, and 12, depend on him. After his arrest, his 3-year-old son "was crying: 'I want my dad, I want my dad'" Denha said. "He was crying so bad." If Butris is deported, he won't be able to survive, she said. Butris has heart problems, is unfamiliar with Iraq, and will be a targeted minority there. "What is he going to do?" she said. "It's a war there, they are killing people. There are ISIS there. ... I want my brother back."
The first air cargo service between India and Afghanistan was launched today by Ariana Afghan Airlines.

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra confirmed on his twitter account that the first return flight was set to leave Kabul for Delhi today.

The service will bypass the land crossing between the two countries via Pakistan.

Indian press reports said that Pakistan has put limitations on the amount of cargo Afghanistan is allowed to export to India, while in the opposite direction a complete ban is in place. However, the flight will use Pakistani airspace.

Initially, the service will fly once or twice a month, but this could increase if there is enough demand.

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Qatar Airways has selected Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) to provide it with cargo handling services at Stockholm Arlanda Airport.

The three-year deal will see WFS provide cargo handling for Qatars 13 direct flights a week between the Swedish capital and Doha.

WFS expects to handle some 12,000 tonnes a year for Qatar Airways at the Airport, which opened in 2012.

The new contract extends WFS working relationship with Qatar Airways in Europe, where it is already providing cargo handling services for the airline in Madrid, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Frankfurt and Paris.

Marc Claesen, WFS Regional Vice President, said: We are delighted to now be working with Qatar Airways at our two hubs in Scandinavia and at other WFS stations in Europe."

In May, the ground handler sold its Italian business.

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Multinational companies no longer enjoy recruitment advantages in China as domestic IT and Internet companies increasingly gain favor among Chinese students, according to data released Thursday by international consultancy Universum in Shanghai.

The Stockholm, Sweden-headquartered Universum received assessments of 233 employers from 79,346 students majoring in business, engineering, science, social sciences and humanities, law and medicine.

In the survey, 18 percent of Chinese students said they were willing to work for a multinational, a decrease from 25 percent in 2016 and 28 percent in 2015. The proportions were even lower among science and engineering majorsonly 16 percent of engineering students and 14 percent of science students wanted to join a multinational after graduation. The students said multinationals were less stable than their domestic counterparts.

This year, the top five most attractive employers for business majors were Alibaba, Huawei, Bank of China, Ernst & Young, and PricewaterhouseCoopers, while the top five most favored by engineering students were Huawei, Tencent, Alibaba, Baidu and Microsoft.

Alibaba and Huawei were also attractive to other majors. Alibaba was the second most attractive employer among science students and the top among students of social sciences and humanities. Huawei took the first spot among science students, and was the second most popular among business students and majors in social sciences and humanities. Tencent also ranked high among various majors.

Chinese Internet companies were well known for competitive compensations that came with highly stressful workloads. But the survey found Chinese students attributed these companies' attractiveness to their entrepreneurial spirit, creative working environment, team work and corporate social responsibility. The students valued "a sound support for future career development" when it came to choosing an employer.

Wu Gang, the vice-president of Universum's Asia-Pacific region, said that "In recent years, through our surveys and research, we've found an obvious change. That is, China's indigenous IT and Internet companies are becoming increasingly popular, while the competitive advantages multinationals used to enjoy are no longer that noticeable."
June 15, 2017

Iraq, together with UNESCO, has concluded a comprehensive aerial survey of Iraqi heritage destroyed by the Islamic State (IS), paving the way for further cooperation to restore various Iraqi sites, particularly at the 13th-century Assyrian capital of Nimrod.

In mid-May, Italian Culture Minister Dario Franceschini handed over to his Iraqi counterpart, Friad Rwandzi, a 500-page report prepared in coordination with UNESCO that includes the survey data. The report, which focuses on northern Iraq, documents affected archaeological sites before and after their destruction, assessment of the damage and an action plan for their restoration.

Iraq and UNESCO have worked together since 2014 to restore the archaeological sites that have been in IS grip, including Hatra, Nimrod and the Mosul Museum. UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova said in November 2016, after the liberation of Nimrod, that her agency was determined to support Iraq in assessing the damage and protecting the remains from further looting and destruction.

UNESCO has indeed been vocal about the need to restore Nimrod, which is located in Ninevah province. In 2010, Nimrod was submitted to the UN body's tentative list of World Heritage sites. Also known as Kalhu, Nimrod is one of the main archaeological sites from the Assyrian period. Established in the 13th century BC, it later became the second capital of the Assyrian Empire. Its murals and monuments are referenced in literature and scripture, and its clay tablets with cuneiform writing are known worldwide.

Faleh al-Shammari, director of antiquities in Ninevah, told Al-Monitor that the next step will be to form a joint technical committee of Iraqis and UNESCO representatives. Experts from both sides will oversee a strategic project for the restoration of historical places in Ninevah, based on the aerial survey database, Shammari said.

The report contains data gathered from satellite images and unmanned reconnaissance flights between 2015 and April 2017," he said. "It also contains several old photos from archaeological expeditions since the 1930s, reinforced by field information gathered from the inhabitants of the archaeological sites. Prepared under the supervision of archaeology experts, [the report provides] accurate details of what was destroyed in Ninevah. It also contains expert analysis on the extent of the damage and proposed methods of restoration.

Shammari explained that to further compare the state of the site before and after the destruction, they will use an image analysis method involving a laser device to determine exactly which parts are missing or damaged.

He added, According to the agreement with the Italian side and UNESCO, the first step would be to implement an emergency plan to rehabilitate the destroyed archaeological sites and to provide security protection. We will also begin urgent repair operations, make an itinerary of destroyed and lost items and try to track looted pieces. This will be done in cooperation with INTERPOL, governments and international archaeologists.

Shammari said that in May, the independent archaeologist Mary Shepperson had begun a British Council-run program in London to provide eight weeks of training to Iraqi archaeologists in modern archaeological practices. The program is funded by the council's Cultural Protection Fund.

Iyad al-Shammari, rapporteur of the parliamentary archaeological committee, told Al-Monitor that the aerial survey has two stages. The first, already completed, dealt with Ninevah. The second stage, to take place later this year, also under UNESCO supervision, will cover archaeological sites in the center and south of the country.

Both the parliamentarian Shammari and Undersecretary of Tourism and Antiquities Qais Hussein Rashid voiced their expectation that the second stage will include additional research methods, among them space satellite technology, which has been used in Egypt to detect lost underground sites. This would save Iraq money, effort and time and would curb useless, random excavation. It will also facilitate the detection of buried archaeological gems, he said.

Rashid told Al-Monitor, The most important aspect of the project [with UNESCO] is that it provides images and documented information about the sites. This will enable us to remove antiquities safely from areas where full security is not yet restored. Clay tablets and small Assyrian objects would be characteristic of items needing to be removed.

Rashid said the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities was also working on creating reproductions of the archaeological monuments to preserve them in the libraries of museums and increase international interest. He said that this will also show to the world the magnitude of the damage IS has done to Iraqi heritage sites.

Like Shammari, Rashid also advocates the further use of aerial survey techniques and space satellite technology on Ninevah. It is high time aerial survey techniques were used in archaeological sites because they can scan large stretches of land and detect the buried sites, whereas old methods of excavation require time and effort, but can be inaccurate, he said.
June 19, 2017

CAIRO  Egypt's parliament quickly gave its blessing to a controversial maritime demarcation agreement under which Egypt is to transfer sovereignty over the islands of Tiran and Sanafir to Saudi Arabia. But some parliamentarians, legal experts and citizens are saying, Not so fast.

One legislator resigned from parliament in protest, and a political science expert predicts that consummating the turnover would cause the political system to buckle. Police arrested eight people, including three journalists, from among dozens of people at a demonstration the night before the vote.

In April 2016, Egypt and Saudi Arabia had signed a bilateral agreement to turn over the islands. On Jan. 16, the Supreme Administrative Court nullified the agreement. But in a plenary session June 14, parliamentary speaker Ali Abdel Aal announced the transfer's approval, flouting all judicial rulings against the agreement concerning the uninhabited but strategically located Red Sea islands.

The dispute over the islands has continued all this time, yet it took parliament less than four days to "settle" the disagreement, holding five sessions of the relevant parliamentary committees. The first session was held June 11 and headed by Abdel Aal, who did not allow parliament members to take the floor to discuss the matter. He insisted on a vote by a show of hands, disregarding parliament bylaws requiring a roll call.

The [voting] session was managed in a selective way and did not allow experts who oppose the agreement to express their opinion, said Mohamed Fouad, the head of the Wafd Party parliamentary bloc, in the resignation letter he submitted June 15 in protest of the voting process.

Parliamentarian Haitham al-Hariri, who also opposes the agreement, told Al-Monitor, We collected the signatures of 101 [parliament members] to quash parliament's approval of the agreement. These signatures have been recorded in the plenary sessions record. This requires a re-voting in accordance with the regulation on the vote by a roll call.

Hariri, a member of the 25-30 bloc, asserted that the ruling of the Supreme Administrative Court and a report of the commissioners of the Supreme Constitutional Court had nullified the agreement. He said any decision by the president to hand over the two islands is tantamount to a waste of land, a violation of law and the constitution, and a transgression against the peoples property.

Parliament has lost its legitimacy by approving the agreement in this way, he said.

The political administration had taken, through the government, several measures before the agreement was submitted to parliament to ensure the transfer would be approved by a majority and to avoid public protests.

A number of news websites known to oppose the agreement, including al-Badil, al-Bedaiah and Misr al-Arabiya, were blocked under the state of emergency that's been in effect since April 10. Sawt El Shaab satellite channel, which broadcasted parliament plenary sessions, was also suspended.

The government also held intensive meetings with parliament members to persuade them to vote in favor of the agreement and submitted to them a report containing answers to 39 questions about the agreement  stressing that the islands belong to Saudi Arabia and denying that Egypt would bear any political consequences at the local and regional levels by approving the pact.

Critics say Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is pushing the proposal to curry favor and maintain his country's lucrative relationship with Saudi Arabia, which has provided billions of dollars of financial support to economically devastated Egypt.

An Egyptian government official told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that the islands will be handed over soon, after procedural and legal arrangements are completed in Egypt. Those include the president signing the agreement and its publication in the Official Gazette.

However, the official, who had taken part in the recent parliamentary-government meetings on the agreement, noted that talks with the Saudi side did not lead to a final agreement on a critical aspect: ending Egypt's protection of the islands after they are transferred.

This issue is still linked to other regional arrangements, mainly the repercussions of the agreement on the Camp David Accords, which had placed the Strait of Tiran within Area C and under which Egypt undertook to protect Israels right of navigation through this strait. This is also linked to the mechanisms for transferring [to Saudi Arabia] the commitment to these obligations to Israel," he said.

The islands are located at the mouth of the Gulf of Aqaba. Vessels must use the gulf's shipping lanes to access Jordanian and Israeli ports.

Constitutional law professor Fouad Abdel Nabi explained to Al-Monitor that parliament's approval of the agreement does not mean the end of legal proceedings. He said parliament's action "breaches 53 constitutional and legal provisions."

"Also, it does not fall within the presidents prerogatives to conclude an agreement waiving a part of the states territory or to organize a public referendum in violation of the constitution.

He added that the president and parliament are not entitled to cancel the Supreme Constitutional Court's decision nullifying the agreement. From a procedural standpoint, the regimes relinquishment of its ownership of the islands would deny Egypt any capacity over these islands, whether in terms of sovereignty or protection, he said.

Sisi considered the matter settled more than a year ago when, in comments broadcast live on state television April 13, 2016, he said, "We did not surrender our rights, but we restored the rights of others, and called for an end of the discussion on the issue.

Yet the recent parliamentary approval of the transfer was the straw that broke the camels back and mobilized public opposition against the regime and all its executive and legislative institutions.

The hasty approval awakened the opposition movement, as evidenced by the protests staged in front of the Syndicate of Journalists the night before parliament approved the agreement.

Hassan Nafaa, a political science professor at Cairo University, told Al-Monitor, The [parliament members'] approval of the transfer is a major political mistake that will embarrass the Egyptian institutions in the coming period. Sisis signature on this agreement will usher in the collapse of the political system.

He added, The pro-regime groups in Egypt are currently groups that benefit from the regime or that hate the Muslim Brotherhood. The vast majority of the people believe the regime has forsaken a part of Egypts land.

Parliament gave the government the chance to push through the agreement and muzzle opposition voices both inside and outside parliament. The regime now has to abide by its obligation and hand over the islands or risk embarrassment in front of Saudi Arabia.

In the meantime, the decision is likely to have repercussions affecting the regimes popularity and its ability to win Egyptians' trust again.
June 19, 2017

The war for the Syrian Desert is in fact a war for the heart of the Middle East. The Iranian-led coalition in Syria is racing against the US-backed forces there, as both seek to defeat the Islamic State (IS), the group that has shaped the face of the region for the last four years. It is a war in the desert to draw a line in the sand, some might say, or a war to draw a line across borders and connect four capitals: Tehran, Baghdad, Damascus and Beirut. Hence the battle is between two different regional and international agendas, with each side viewing the other as the real threat after the defeat of IS in Iraqs Mosul and Syrias Raqqa.

Indeed, the regional confrontation and the intersection of interests suggest that the Sykes-Picot borders are practically vanishing in accordance with the interests of regional alliances. In other words, central governments are shifting their focus from national borders in consideration of the interests of the wider axis to which they belong. One manifestation of this was reflected in the celebratory mood of media supporting the so-called resistance axis as its forces arrived at a Syrian-Iraqi border crossing June 9, with reported contact made between the Popular Mobilization Units (PMUs) advancing from Iraq and allied forces from Syria, under the direct supervision of the Iranian Quds Force commander, Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani.

A road link from Tehran to Beirut has been secured by Iranian-led Iraqi, Syrian and Lebanese forces. This means, according to some analysts, that Iran is now capable of supplying its main allies in Lebanon and Syria with weapons and rockets across a 1,100-mile-plus land route. This might, however, be an overstatement or a bit of hyperventilating analysis, given that in the past Israeli fighter jets have on several occasions hit alleged arm supplies near and around Damascus. A longer route, mainly through a no man's land in remote areas of Iraq, is likely to be vulnerable to hits by the Israeli or US air forces, not to mention possible attacks by insurgents, including IS.

The Tehran-Beirut route is a symbolic connection, one that announces that the Iran-led resistance axis is intact, as it was before the eruption of the Syrian revolution in 2011 and IS capture of Mosul in June 2014. That said, from the Iranian point of view, the regional stage is now different.

Its normal for a country to have control over all its territory, a senior officer from the operations room of forces allied with the Syrian government told Al-Monitor on the condition of anonymity. The Syrian army and [its] allies control over the Syrian border is logical and legal, and its laughable to listen to calls asking an army of a sovereign state to stay away from its borders.

The senior officer added, The US steps and measures on the borders werent surprising to us. Weve been observing [the Americans'] moves in several areas in Syria, and to be realistic, given the number of troops they have on the ground, they are not likely to get involved in direct confrontations, but rather strikes from the air or via artillery.

From the perspective of Syria's allies, he said, The Americans were depending on local militias whom they trained to execute their agenda, [by] mainly creating [zones in] isolated areas and belts around Syria [where they can operate]. Yet it was clear [that] they bet on the wrong people. The US-backed forces werent up to the battle with our forces. They dont have our experience nor do they have our determination and persistence.

The advance in Syria toward the Syria-Iraq border was concomitant with progress toward the same border by the PMU in Iraq, led by Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who announced on June 10 that his forces had reached the frontier and liberated 4,200 square kilometers [1,622 square miles] and 142 villages. Of note, however, his forces have no intention of entering Syrian territory.

A PMU source who spoke with Al-Monitor on the condition of anonymity said that all recent steps along both sides of the border had been coordinated in an attempt to send a clear message: No threats, no hurdles, no superpowers can defy the will of the peoples of Syria and Iraq, who are determined to dispatch IS and its allies from the two countries. The source added that there had been many attempts on both sides of the border to stop the advance, including airstrikes and messages sent through friendly intermediaries. All were in vain, he noted. Our forces knew what to do, where to be, and they finally accomplished the mission.

On June 6, a US airstrike on a position held by the Syrian army in Tanf, near the intersection of the borders of Iraq, Syria and Jordan, was clearly aimed at drawing a bold line delineating respective areas of control. The strike took place around 35 miles from the US base in the region and signaled that the United States would not tolerate advances toward its facilities from forces allied with the Syrian government.

We were always under the sight of the American drones, and we knew that, the senior officer from the operations room told Al-Monitor. He went on to note that this approach did not stop the allied advance, stating, The issue of reaching the Iraqi border is now behind us. They failed, and now the Syrian governments objective is to extend its area of control on the borders. From a military point of view, if they want to stop us, they need ground forces  and they know well that they lack such forces.

What about the "Shiite crescent"? Al-Monitor asked the senior officer whether the emerging realities on the ground are the very "crescent" many have been warning of and that Iran and its allies have always denied pursuing.

Our fight and struggle alongside the Syrian government was never for sectarian objectives, said the senior officer. We are going to fight alongside any country facing such criminal and terrorist enemies. We care for Muslims, all Muslims, as we care for Christians. And this war proved that clearly, and this is why we are fighting beside our brothers in Palestine. We never saw them from the sick sectarian view, rather from the view of brotherhood and lifting the oppression they face by Israel, which today is the main regional ally of those backing the terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
June 19, 2017

For the first time in its involvement in Syrias six years of civil war, Iran has launched missiles against Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria.

According to a statement released by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the June 18 missile strikes hit targets in eastern Syria that Iran holds responsible for the recent IS attack in Tehran that killed 18 people and wounded 50. The IRGC statement said that the strikes targeted the terrorist group's gathering centers and bomb-making factories. The missiles were launched from IRGC bases in Iran's western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan.

Tasnim News Agency reported that the city of Deir ez-Zor was targeted specifically because many of the IS fighters had fled there after suffering setbacks in other parts of Syria and in Mosul, Iraq, where Iraqi forces are forcing the group to retreat. Comments by the IRGC and Iranian officials have led many to believe that the move was not only about taking out those Iran blames for the Tehran attack.

The IRGC wrote that the attack was a message and a warning to takfiri terrorists, their regional supporters and their supporters outside of the region. Former Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs Hossein Amir Abdollahian, who is believed to be close to the IRGC, tweeted that the move was a soft warning. Abdollahian is now an adviser to parliament Speaker Ali Larijani. Former IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaei, who is now secretary of the Expediency Council, tweeted, There are bigger strikes upcoming. The supporters of terrorists should understand the strength of Iran. Irans Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted, Irans missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense & advances common global fight to eradicate [IS] & extremist terror.

Conservative writer Mehdi Mohammadi posted on Telegram that the strikes were more than just a response to the IS attack in Tehran. He wrote that the strikes demonstrated Irans missile capabilities to those who sent terrorists to Tehran and that Irans "unexpected" response was a deep message for the supporters of terrorists. Mohammadi also wrote that the strikes show that ties between IS fighters in Syria and Iraq can now be targeted.

The timing of the strikes has led some to believe the message was also intended for the new US administration, which is adopting a policy of regime change for Tehran and is reportedly seeking to confront Iran militarily in Syria.

Some Iran observers believe the strikes were coordinated with a speech earlier in the day by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In an address to the families of soldiers killed fighting in Syria and Iraq and those of border guards killed while on duty, Khamenei said, The Islamic Republic is standing strong.  The enemies cannot strike Iran, but the nation will strike them. After the attack, the Instagram account associated with Khamenei shared a picture of the missile launch with the words We will strike them.

In that speech, Khamenei also addressed comments made by US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson that the US policy is to support a transition of Irans government. In the last 38 years, has there been a time when you guys have not wanted to change the system? Khamenei asked. But every time your head hit a rock, and it will always be like this. Khamenei called the new US administration inexperienced and said that many officials before them took their dreams of overthrowing the Islamic Republic to the grave," adding, "It will always be so.
June 19, 2017

June 14 saw the completion of an enormous Israel Defense Forces (IDF) commando brigade exercise in Cyprus. It was jointly conducted by the Cypriot army and hundreds of Israeli commando fighters and involved 10 Blackhawk helicopters from the Israeli air force, dogs and dog handlers from the IDF Special Forces Canine Unit (Oketz) and fighters from additional IDF units, such as combat engineering and intelligence. The drill was conducted in the Troodos Mountains. The Israeli soldiers were flown first to the Cypriot city of Paphos on IDF air force transport aircraft and from there to the mountains on Blackhawks. They practiced fighting in built-up environments (urban warfare), battling in mountainous areas and landing forces using helicopters in harsh terrain and at high altitude while working in close cooperation with foreign forces in unfamiliar arenas.

It is clear that the mountain range chosen for the drill closely resembles the topographic conditions in Lebanon, although no Israeli spokesperson has confirmed it. The last ground exercise conducted by Israel in Lebanon took place 11 years ago, in 2006, and was not very successful. In what Israelis call the Second Lebanon War, the IDF sent three armored divisions into extensive mountainous territory, which meant that its soldiers were exposed to Hezbollah rockets for hundreds of conspicuous meters. Since then, the IDF has been working on a new outline for ground maneuvers more closely adapted to the current reality and balance of power. Next time, things will look completely different, an army source told Al-Monitor, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

The IDF of 2017 is completely different from the IDF that fought Hezbollah in July 2006. Years of cutbacks had caused the 2006 army to become a withered, untrained body lacking operational experience and precise goals. In the Lebanon war, the IDF unsuccessfully searched for its opponent on land, while Hezbollah fighters avoided all possible direct contact with Israeli armored divisions. Instead, the fighters confined themselves to targeting Israeli tanks and soldiers with Kornet missiles from afar with a certain degree of success.

This asymmetrical warfare took its greatest toll on the IDF  a cumbersome, heavy and highly visible entity fighting flexible guerrilla forces hidden on territory with which the latter were familiar. Israel learned its lesson in the decade that has passed. Its reserves deployment has been rehabilitated and enlarged. Its training-exercise system has been improved and upgraded. A commando brigade was established, with one of its units (Egoz) taking part in the Cypriot maneuver. Sophisticated training sites were created, and regional alliances were struck. These allow the IDF to train repeatedly with foreign forces and on territory with physical features like those on which future battles may well be fought.

A significant shift has occurred in the IDF's perception in regard to fighting in a coalition of forces. Until recently, the Israeli army did not often conduct combat exercises with foreign forces, with the exception of the Americans. Israel focused on joint maneuvers with the US army, but no other countries. This has changed. The IDFs operational view today does not negate, and perhaps even encourages, the creation of international coalitions and joint combat. The IDF of 2017 conducts maneuvers with the Greeks, the Cypriots and other armies while upgrading its inter-army cooperation abilities.

At this point in time, it is difficult to envision real fighting against real enemies in which additional forces would join those of the IDF. As people know in the Middle East, however, never say never. Against the backdrop of recent reports about feelers between Israel and Saudi Arabia on establishing economic relations and the half-secret alliance between Israel and the Sunni states, one must prepare for any possible scenario.

The commando unit maneuver in Cyprus was geared toward a possible future confrontation with Hezbollah, but not only that. The way things are developing on Israel's northern front, scenarios now appear possible that one could not have imagined only a few years ago. Under certain circumstances, it is possible that the IDF would need to maneuver in Syrian, not Lebanese, territory.

As strange as it might sound, maneuvers in Syria at this point in time would be totally different from what the IDF prepared itself for in the past. Since the Syrian army has disintegrated, and Syrian armored units no longer feature in significant numbers, the IDF's outlook on maneuvers has changed accordingly. This is the reason the light commando brigade was founded. The brigade moves about on helicopters, jeeps and other light forms of transport.

Israel does not preclude a future scenario involving a commando force maneuvering in Syria or in Lebanon to remove one kind of threat or another to Israeli national security. The days of maneuvers by armored divisions of hundreds of tanks have become obsolete. Now the territory belongs to those using fast, light and concealed forms of movement with the ability to deliver a powerful, unexpected blow with perfect timing to a precise location. That is, in essence, the story of the new Israeli commando brigade.

Still, the biggest threat currently facing Israel is not Syria, but Hezbollahs arsenal of rockets and missiles. Despite the exhaustive training exercises being conducted with an eye on land maneuvers in Lebanon, the top Israeli conceptual hypothesis, backed by the current chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot, does not view this as the most decisive element for winning a future skirmish. Eizenkot served as head of the Operations Directorate during the 2006 war. In post-factum analyses, Eizenkot felt that the war should have been halted after the first three days, during which Israel scored several important operational achievements as well as a hearts-and-minds victory. This, he felt, would have saved many lives and achieved a similar deterrence effect similar to what was gained after 33 days of warfare.

Nonetheless, Eizenkot is leading massive Israeli preparations geared toward the option of ground maneuvers. As far as we know at present, the chances that Israeli armored divisions will again invade southern Lebanon are not high. The next maneuver, if such takes place, will be much more rapid and flexible, a lot less armored and make much better use of the element of surprise. At least, that is what Israel hopes, and those are the skills that the IDF is developing toward a possible flare-up on the northern front. According to intelligence reports, the probability of such a flare-up is not high. Hezbollah is mired in Syria up to its neck, and Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah has no desire to open a second front at the moment. In the Middle East, however, logic, intelligence assessments and probabilities are not absolute. Anything and everything can happen at any given moment. Israel hopes that this time, it will be prepared.
June 19, 2017

Lebanon's parliament approaved a new electoral law June 16, and several political activists and alternative parties are already preparing themselves for the next elections, expected in May 2018.

Lebanon's civil society has actively called over the last few months for a law based on proportional representation, as well as a series of reforms that are considered to be necessary for the transparency of the electoral process. With the new law in place and with the parliament's term expiring June 20, Lebanese civil society is now preparing itself for the second phase of its battle: participation in the upcoming elections, expected in 11 months, after the current parliament extended its term for the third consecutive time since 2013.

"This is definitely a positive step, yet insufficient," said Zeina el-Helou, the secretary-general of the Lebanese Association for Democratic Elections. "The parties in power have minimized the effect of the proportional representation and sustained confessionalism through the number and division of districts. This is not to mention that several essential reforms, such as the female quota, lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 or the creation of an independent authority, were not included in the law."

She continued: In addition, the electoral expenditures have been effectively increased; in fact, to the individual $100,000 allowed disbursements  that are yet to be capped now, while there was no explicit ceiling before  another $100,000 was added, that can be disbursed by the electoral list on each candidate. A third reform is the rise of the permitted variable expenditure per voter to 5,000 Lebanese pounds, [compared to] 4,000 Lebanese pounds in 2009. Concretely, this translated into more than $500,000 of legal expenditures in a district of 100,000 voters.

Despite these failures and the postponement of elections until May 2018, the battle to break through the next parliament is already underway.

Nadine Moussa is an active member of Lebanese civil society who will participate in the elections as an independent candidate, she told Al-Monitor. "My decision is in line with my personal struggle for years in favor of a state of law, but it is also motivated by a deep conviction that the Lebanese are more than ever thirsty for a serious and solid alternative to the current feudal, confessional and corrupt system of governance that has been in place for decades," she added. "I also decided to run in the elections in order to contribute to a feminine dynamic against the traditional mens club.

In 2013, Moussa, a lawyer and mother of two children, submitted her candidacy with other members of the Take Back Parliament movement, before the Lebanese Assembly decided not to hold any elections and to extend its term.

Other activists within civil society are also potential candidates. Artist Nada Sehnaoui had already run in the 1998 municipal elections before appearing again in 2016 as a candidate on the Beirut Madinati list, which included 12 women and 12 men from different professional backgrounds. The list was pitted against another that was supported by all the political parties in power.

Against the odds, Beirut Madinati gathered nearly 40% of the votes  a civil phenomenon observed for the first time in a country that has always been dominated by traditional confessional parties. Beirut Madinati has quickly become a label of alternative governance and progressivism among the Lebanese. If the coalition officially decides not to participate in the legislative ballot, some of its members will run individually or within a group of Beirut Madinati.

"I have not yet made my final decision, but this is secondary. My candidate is the political program that will be adopted by a united civil society, Sehnaoui told Al-Monitor.

Since July 2016, an informal team of activists that Nada Sehnaoui joined has been working on this front. "The idea is to create the nucleus of a broad coalition that would include all individuals, movements and parties wishing to run in the elections on the basis of a program that would encompass all the dimensions of public life, including economic, social and environmental policies and reforms," she said.

While some activists are still hesitant, emerging parties, such as Sabaa (Arabic for seven), have already started their battle and are forging their electoral lists in several parts of the country. "Sabaa has now more than 2,000 members, a large network of contacts and key members with substantial experience in policymaking," Ziad Hayek, the director of the party's board, told Al-Monitor.

Hayek has been the secretary-general of the High Council for Privatization since 2006, a highly ranked public position he maintained despite his decision to rally and actively contribute to the Social Movement in 2015, amid an unprecedented waste crisis in the country.

"I dont intend to run in the elections, but I fully support the current driving energy among some groups.  I have been living an internal dilemma, not to say a revolt, for several years now because no public policy issue has ever been taken seriously since I joined office," he said.

While the proliferation of new movements and parties is, no doubt, the proof of an anti-establishment pulse gaining ground year after year since the waste crisis in the summer of 2015, this buoyant socio-political phenomenon in Lebanon may nevertheless play against civil society during the next elections through the risk of dispersion.

Lebanon's civil society lacked momentum after the garbage crisis, partly because of the absence of a unique structure bringing together all the groups under one banner.

"Thats why a common platform gathering all progressive forces is more than necessary. This is a condition if we really want to break through. We must be united and inclusive but tightly hermetical to opportunists and hidden faces of the establishment [who use the label of] civil society, said Wadih el-Asmar, one of the founders of the You Stink movement.

"We are actively working to make this platform emerge," he added.

Many activists share Asmars point of view. "If the civil society doesnt unite, we wont get anywhere. We saw what happened with the Syrian opposition, despite the nobility and the legitimacy of its cause, or with the Palestinians.  The road to reach this objective is definitely not easy, especially since beyond the principle of uniting everyone, the real challenge on the ground will be to create a proper governance structure for this coalition, a common brand, secure financing through one single fund and having electoral delegates, said Asmar.

But this last battle is worth it, insisted Moussa, especially since "the chances of success are big if we manage to impose ourselves as one united alternative for voters. She referred to a secret poll conducted by Lebanon Statistics for the National Democratic Institute that was only disclosed to political parties and civil society groups. She said, 47% of the Lebanese say they will not vote for any of the political parties in power after years of recurrent political vacuums and paralysis, economic recession, increasing corruption and, most importantly, two illegal extensions of parliaments term.
June 15, 2017

A group of students from the American University in Cairo have launched a campaign, with eye-catching visuals and short videos, to raise awareness of pollution in the Red Sea and how individuals can prevent it.

The visually rich campaign, titled Khat Ahmar (Red Line), is part of the students graduation project for their major in integrated marketing communications.

On their Facebook page, the students describe their campaign as the first of its kind due to the use of social media and its wide outreach. The page, which already has more than 1,000 followers, has several videos and articles that cover a variety of issues from human urine in the sea to the protection of corals.

"Most Egyptians are unaware of the importance of the Red Sea in terms of economy and tourism, Mennatullah Hassan, one of the 11 students who run the campaign, told Al-Monitor. They have no idea that how flawed actions can endanger marine wildlife. We want to make people more aware of their actions and responsibility toward the Red Sea and the marine life there.

The Red Sea is essential to Egypts tourism industry. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics, the Red Sea accounted for more than 60% of the 9.9 million visitors to Egypt in 2014. Hisham Zaazou, the former minister of tourism, said that the Red Sea will play a major role in achieving the government's target of reaching 20 million tourist visits annually by 2020.

The campaign includes this board covered with reasons people enjoy the Red Sea, April 5, 2017. (photo by Khat Ahmar campaign)

The students of the American University in Cairo have partnered with Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA), a nongovernmental organization that specializes in the field of marine and land conservation, to determine areas where people can help protect marine wildlife. The subjects they have tackled include coral reefs, dolphins and sharks, which are major tourist attractions but are threatened by pollution and fishermen.

"In our meetings with representatives from HEPCA, we learned that there is a massive decrease in coral reefs due to careless diving, fishing and waste disposal," Hassan said.

Hassan said that coral reefs, once ruined, could take up to 100 years to grow again. So the students made a video on the subject. The videos made by the team and posted on the Khat Ahmar Facebook paged underline those facts. "When people watch the campaign's videos, they are shocked. They share it with their friends. They also feel ashamed of the way their behavior damages the marine life in the Red Sea," Hassan said, adding that the page has received numerous messages praising their efforts in bringing these facts to light.

Hassan said that many tourists come to the Red Sea to see the dolphin house in Samadai in the resort town of Marsa Alam  a major generator of tourism revenues.

People play a game involving removing fish from polluted water and moving them to clean water as a teaching tool, April 5, 2017. (photo by Khat Ahmar campaign)

Similarly, many people come to the Red Sea to swim with the sharks. HEPCA estimates that each shark brings $40,000 a year; some, however, are killed for their meat. In Suez city last year, a whale shark was caught and sold for 25 Egyptian pounds ($1.37) per kilogram.

The campaign also focuses on the problem of human urine in the sea. According to HEPCA, there are 400,000 visitors to the Red Sea yearly  locals and foreigners. If each person urinates about 250 milliliters while swimming, the equivalent of one trip to the bathroom, then this is almost as if an entire sewage pipe has been opened on the sea.

Youssef el-Hennawy, a member of Khat Ahmar, told Al-Monitor that one of the easy things people can do to prevent sea pollution is to stop throwing their plastic bottles in the sea. "Fish and sea turtles may mistake the plastic waste for jellyfish and eat it, leading to suffocation or death. Those bottles also stick to bigger fish and dolphins, thus leading to their suffocation or death," he said.

Hennawy said he and his team will also make ads on TV and billboards on the highways to coastal cities and inside airports. "We will do our best to save the Red Sea, he said.
June 16, 2017

After Otokar spent nine years developing the prototype for Turkey's indigenous Altay tank, the government has rejected the company's proposal for mass production and will open the multibillion-dollar contract to bidding.

The unexpected setback, announced June 9, shocked the defense industry.

Otokar, a subsidiary of Koc Holding, one of Turkeys leading companies, announced June 9: The Defense Industry Undersecretariat (SSM) today informed us that they had reviewed the administrative, financial and technical aspects of our offer but because of lack of agreement on stipulations of the contract, and above all the price quoted," the SSM will be going with a tender process.

Why was the offer rejected after Otokar, jointly with the SSM, spent $1 billion and almost a decade working on the project? Recently, there were optimistic media reports that Turkey was about to export the Altay tank. Now we know it wasnt even built yet.

Until now, the project had been praised incessantly and supported by the president, prime minister, defense minister and the military command. Because of the government's close interest and all the official praise, the market assumed that mass production by Otokar was a foregone conclusion. This naturally boosted the companys market value. In June 2016, Otokar shares were selling at 95 Turkish liras ($27). They reached 149 liras in February. The day after the SSM rejected Otokar's offer, its shares slumped to 113 liras.

Otokar Chairman Ali Koc had recently said that if his company's offer was accepted, Otokar would deliver 250 tanks in five years. Koc also said his company had made all the programming and infrastructure preparations for mass production, which could commence within 18-22 months after the go-ahead was given.

The company hasn't said whether it will participate in the new tender. If so, will it agree to a lower price? This uncertainty seems to be encouraging several local companies to try their hand at the bidding process.

For example, while Otokars shares were losing value, shares of Katmerciler, a company involved in armored vehicle production, registered significant gain.

There is another company manufacturing commercial and military vehicles whose shares are not publicly traded, but its name is being widely mentioned: BMC Automotive Industry Corp. BMC's chairman, media mogul Ethem Sancak, is a member of the Central Committee of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Three years ago he sold 50% of BMC's equity to Qatar Armed Forces Industry Committee. Sancak is a personal friend of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Large contracts normally have to go through the tender process, but because Otokar had been involved in the project for so long, many people assumed it would be awarded the contract without bidding. Sancak apparently was not among those people, however.

On Dec. 16, Sancak told the daily Aksam the route his company would take: We have prepared a strategy that will meet the entire list of needs of our ground forces, from tanks to missiles, with 100% local production. The SSM subsidized one of the most prominent companies of Turkey $500 million to produce five tank prototypes. The company successfully produced the Altay tank prototypes and delivered them. Now the SSM will open a tender for mass production. We are ready to participate in that tender.

Who will win the tender?

Murat Muratoglu of Turkeys mass-circulation opposition daily Sozcu concluded June 12, BMC will get it.

Analysts agree BMC has the best chance of getting the contract. If Otokar doesnt submit a bid, it could provide technical support to BMC. Otokar managers have been quoted as saying that their company could provide support to other contractors.

Relations have been tense between the AKP government and Koc Holding, which has now suffered three major contract setbacks. In December 2002, Koc Holding and its partners won a $5.7 billion bid to privatize the management of express roads and bridges, but that contract was annulled abruptly in February 2013.

Koc had also won the tender for the Milgem national shipbuilding project worth 1.5 billion euros in January 2013 ($2 billion at the time). But after the company built two vessels, the Prime Ministry Audit Board said the tender had been improperly conducted and the SSM decided to annul the contract that September.

One of the biggest businesses in Turkey has been excluded from giant projects that it had been awarded, one by one: the national shipbuilding project, the express roads-bridges management tender and now the national tank contract. Can anyone really say these are coincidences?
June 19, 2017

The latest controversy surrounding Turkeys military involves its most valued asset: conscripts. In the past month, nearly 2,000 cases of food poisoning have hit the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK). For much of last week, successive reports came out of five TSK units in Manisa province that 600 conscripts were hospitalized for severe nausea and vomiting. The incidents came in the wake of another bout in May, when more than 1,000 conscripts in Manisa sought treatment and Pvt. Husnu Ozel died because of food-borne illness.

The Turkish government has responded swiftly. Minister of National Defense Fikri Isik and Commander of the Land Forces Gen. Zeki Colak visited Manisa May 18. During the visit, Isik announced the cancellation of the contract with the company hired to prepare the soldiers food. The defense minister informed the Turkish parliament June 19 that he will demand answers for the incidents even if [the offender] was his [brother]. As of June 19, 24 people have been detained in connection with the scandal.

The incident led to great outrage among Turks of all political stripes. Erkan Akcay, a member of parliament with the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), which established a partnership with the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) after last years failed coup attempt, said the company also held lucrative contracts with other TSK units. He demanded to know which of the companys contracts were canceled: only those with TSK installations in Manisa, where the majority of the poisoning cases happened, or all of them.

Tur Yildiz Bicer, a member of parliament with the Republican Peoples Party (CHP) from Manisa, called for Isiks resignation. Bicer and several CHP deputies claimed that the owners of the food service company in question were previously shielded from an investigation because of their connections to the ruling AKP. In addition, the CHP members claimed AKP and MHP deputies had refused to open a parliamentary investigation in the wake of the incident in May.

Meanwhile, Bicer led a group of CHP supporters to march in solidarity with CHP Chairman Kemal Kilicdaroglus ongoing Justice March from Ankara to Istanbul.

The food poisoning issue has become especially sensitive in Turkeys highly charged and polarized political climate. The anti-government Sozcu newspaper reported June 18 that conscripts relatives and other citizens had protested Isik during his visit to Manisa. Pro-AKP media outlets, which usually tone down incidents if they risk bringing trouble to the ruling party, were quite vocal. One of the leading pro-government newspapers, Yeni Safak, ran its coverage of the incident on its front page June 19, asking, What is happening at the barracks? Turkiye newspapers front page read, Hold them responsible.

To be sure, some outlets blamed a usual suspect, the Pennsylvania-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, whose followers many Turks call the Fethullah Gulen Terror Organization or FETO. Pro-AKP daily Aksam led its June 19 edition with the headline, Is it FETOs poison in the mess hall? Many Turks suspect that Gulenists were behind last years failed coup and that Gulens followers are still trying to sow discord and chaos in their country.

All parties agree on one thing: The TSK and the Defense Ministry should get to the bottom of this sensitive matter. Otherwise, a bad case of food poisoning could leave Turkeys political environment even more toxic.
When

Oprah

says it's good, we reckon it's pretty good.

But even if we already knew we loved

City Cafe

and

Wintzell's Oyster House

, it's nice to see the Alabama restaurants getting some national love, especially from the queen of broadcasting herself.

, Oprah Winfrey's magazine "O" recently featured the eateries in

for its July 2017 issue, also highlighting some choice dishes everyone should try.

"Vacation meals should be as glorious as your vacation," the piece's opening paragraph says. "Our state-by-state guide is an invitation to savor the most delicious tastes near and far."

Here's what they wrote about City Cafe in Northport:

"With its wood-paneled walls and daily specials, City Cafe in Northport offers soothing Southern-style mains, like chicken-fried steak and fried chicken livers, partnered with three or four comfort sides, including fried green tomatoes and stewed squash..."

Wintzell's Oyster House in downtown Mobile, Ala. (Mike Brantley/mbrantley@al.com)

And on Wintzell's Oyster House:

"On most menus here, you'll find tangy West Indies salad--a cold seafood affair starring lump crabmeat, chopped yellow onion and a liberal dose of vinegar. Mobile's 75-plus-year-old Wintzell's Oyster House marinates theirs for a thorough 24 hours, resulting in a sweet-sour dish as refreshing as an afternoon on a porch swing."

City Cafe is located at 408 Main Avenue in Northport. Wintzell's Oyster House is located at 605 Dauphin Street in downtown Mobile, with

across the state.
A young boy was killed Sunday afternoon when he was hit by a car in an east Birmingham neighborhood.

The accident happened on Joppa Avenue and 66th Court Way South in the Gate City neighborhood. Sgt. Bryan Shelton said Amere Savage, 9, was riding a scooter when he was struck.

He was taken to Children's of Alabama, where he was pronounced dead. Shelton said police are on the scene, and it wasn't immediately clear how the accident happened.

"Apparently the park was full of children playing, however, by witness accounts, there were no parents or adults around,'' he said.

The driver is talking with police. Police believe the wreck was an accident and don't anticipate any charges at this point.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
A German company that makes metal parts for the aerospace industry and other industries will invest $12 million to build a plant in Auburn, creating about 50 jobs over the next five years.

The company, Winkelmann Group, announced the project today at the Paris Air Show, along with Gov. Kay Ivey, according to a press release from the governor's office.

Ivey and industry recruiters for the state are in France for the air show.

The Alabama operation will be called Winkelmann Flowform Technology LP.

"The Winkelmann Group, with over a hundred years of industrial history, operates numerous manufacturing facilities globally, and we are extremely proud that they chose Auburn as the home of Winkelmann Flowform Technology," Ivey said.

CEO Heinrich Winkelmann said the Auburn facility will help the company serve the aerospace and defense industry, as well as the automotive and oil and gas industries in the United States.

Winkelmann Flowform Technology will make high-precision, high-strength, thin wall parts from all kind of metals, including titanium and high-strength steel.
A judge is refusing to dismiss murder charges against an Alabama inmate who has been held in jail for a decade without a trial.

Houston County Circuit Judge Kevin Moulton wrote in a Friday order that there is no evidence that the state purposely delayed the case or that defendant Kharon Davis has been prejudiced.

Davis is charged in the 2007 shooting death of Pete Reaves. He has been held in jail for a decade without bail.

His attorneys say the original judge allowed Davis to be represented for four years by an attorney with a conflict of interest because the attorney's son was the police investigator in the case.

Moulton wrote that Davis knew about the conflict and kept the attorney.

The case goes to trial Sept. 18.
The death of a Virginia teenager who police say was attacked near a mosque in the Sterling area is not being investigated as a hate crime, authorities said Monday.

On Sunday, police found the girl's remains after the mosque had reporting her missing and a 22-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with the case.

Relatives identified the girl as Nabra Hassanen of Reston. Prosecutors said Nabra was 16 years old, but police had initially said she was 17.

Fairfax County police identified the man charged with murder in her death as Darwin Martinez Torres of Sterling.

On Sunday night as family and friends gathered, Sawsan Gazzar the teenager's mother, said, "pray for me that I can handle this. . . . I lost my daughter, my first reason for happiness."

Torres was held without bond following a brief arraignment Monday in Fairfax County juvenile court. Appearing on a video monitor from the county jail, Torres spoke through a Spanish translator to answer a judge's questions. He was appointed a public defender and his next court appearance was set for July 19.

Fairfax County prosecutors offered no new information about the case during the hearing and declined to comment afterward.

Police had initially said a possible hate-crime motivation was among the things authorities were investigating. But that changed Monday when they posted a message on Twitter saying they were not investigating the case as a hate crime. Authorities did not immediately elaborate on that statement.

The chief medical examiner's office will confirm the identity of the remains and manner of death, Fairfax police spokeswoman Tawny Wright said Sunday.

According to accounts from police and a mosque official, a group of four or five teens was walking early Sunday from breakfast at an IHOP - where they had headed after leaving a mosque - when they were confronted by a motorist, now identified by police as Torres. All but one of the teens ran to the mosque in Sterling called the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS), where the group reported that Hassanen had been left behind, according to Deputy Aleksandra Kowalski, a spokeswoman for the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.

An aunt of Martinez Torres, who declined to be identified and was at court, said the family is shocked and mystified about charges against their relative.

The aunt said Martinez Torres was at a Sterling park with her mother, hours before the incident. She said Martinez Torres left the park at around 11:30 p.m. Sunday to head home.

Family members of Torres said he worked in construction. He has a 4-year-old son and a girlfriend and is originally from El Salvador. He attended school briefly in the U.S.

The aunt said she believed Torres did not know Nabra adding that family members also did not know her.

"I can't believe it," the aunt said. "He is nice with my mom. He is nice with my family. He's a nice dad."

Officials at the mosque notified police about the missing girl and Loudoun County and Fairfax County authorities began an extensive search, the mosque said in a statement.

The two agencies conducted an hours-long search around Dranesville Road and Woodson Drive in Herndon, which is in Fairfax. Remains thought to be the girl's were found about 3 p.m. Sunday in a pond in the 21500 block of Ridgetop Circle in Sterling. During the search, an officer spotted a motorist driving suspiciously in the area and arrested Torres, police said.

Police said they collected several articles of evidence but declined to provide further details.

The girl's mother said detectives told her that Nabra was struck with a metal bat.

In a neighborhood full of Muslim immigrant families, the victim's modest Reston apartment was the one overflowing with friends and laughter most days, friends said Sunday.

"It's a family where if you're feeling down and you need to laugh, this is where you go," said Samar Ali, 26, who grew up in the Hassanens' apartment complex.

On Sunday night, that apartment normally filled with laughter was crammed with more than 30 women in traditional Muslim garb, sobbing and comforting one another. At the center of the crowded, dimly lit living room was the victim's mother.

They described the young victim as a quiet girl who did not talk back.

"If you're talking about sweet, she's the definition of sweet," said Samar Ali, 26, who grew up in the same apartment complex as Nabra.

Neighbors described the teenager as unusually respectful, calling older neighbors "sir" and "ma'am" and helping watch small children, at home and at her mosque.

"Nabra's personality, she gets scared very easily," said her mother, Sawsan Gazzar. "Nabra doesn't even fight with her sisters. She's very scared."

In conversations with detectives, the victim's mother said she was told the driver shouted at the teens, then threw glass beer bottles at them.

She also believed that her daughter's death was a hate crime.

"I'm sure the guy hit my daughter because she's Muslim and she was wearing the hijab," she said. "The thing in my head is, why did he do that to us? We're not bad people. He doesn't know us. Why did he ever do that? I don't feel safe at all anymore, as a Muslim living here now. I'm so worried about sending my kids out and their coming back as bodies."

"I want justice. I want to know why he did this to her . . . Why would you kill a kid? What did my daughter do to deserve this?"

The killing rattled a Muslim community in the midst of celebrating Ramadan, a month of religious observance in which adherents fast from sunrise to sunset for 30 days. The period culminates in the feast-like celebration Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall next weekend.

"We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event," Rizwan Jaka, chairman of ADAMS, said in a statement. "It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth."

ADAMS is Northern Virginia's largest mosque and, with 11 chapters around the District and Northern Virginia, is among the nation's most well-known congregations. According to ADAMS's website, the Sterling location is 25,000 square feet and can accommodate more than 700 people. It includes a youth weekend school, a gymnasium and multipurpose hall, the site says.

Arsalan Iftikhar, an international human rights lawyer and commentator, said that he and his wife were at the mosque for evening prayers, which ended about 12:30 a.m. Sunday. As they were pulling out of the parking lot, he said, he saw a group of teenagers congregating and talking loudly about going out to eat. The girls, he said, were wearing the abaya, a full-length dress many Muslim women wear.

Police have not said that the slaying was a hate crime, but the issue was on the minds of many Muslims.

Last month, two men on a Portland train were stabbed and killed after they intervened to protect two girls who were being harassed, according to authorities.

Sunday night, a van struck a crowd of pedestrians, including worshipers leaving a pair of mosques in London. Witnesses said the pedestrians were struck as they departed late-night prayers.

The ADAMS Center has a paid armed security guard at the Sterling site, according to Iftikhar. He said many mosques have increased security since six Muslim worshipers were killed at a mosque in Quebec earlier this year.

Nabra's slaying sent a chill through the community when news spread Sunday.

"People are petrified, especially people who have young Muslim daughters," Iftikhar said.

Virginia officials condemned the killing Sunday night and expressed condolences to Nabra's family.

Loudoun County Sheriff Michael L. Chapman said of the murder, "I can't think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Father's Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself."

Rep. Barbara Comstock, R-Va., said she visited ADAMS Sunday and met with leadership and law enforcement officials.

"We are heartbroken and horrified by the news of the brutal murder of a beautiful 17-year old girl," Comstock said in a statement.

The night before, Gazzar - the victim's mother - had cooked a feast for Nabra, the oldest of her four daughters, who wanted to host a big iftar break-the-fast dinner for all her friends from ADAMS and South Lakes High School, where she just finished 10th grade.

The iftar was packed - Nabra was always popular and sociable. And when it ended, a friend's mom drove some of the teens to ADAMS for the midnight prayers that mark the last 10 days of Ramadan. Nabra wasn't ordinarily religiously observant - she was more excited about fashion and makeup, including recently her nose ring - but she frequented the mosque during Ramadan, when it became a social hub for teens.

Gazzar said she thought Nabra and her friends would eat at the mosque after the prayers, and she would have forbidden her from walking to IHOP in the middle of the night. But she also wasn't surprised that the girl went out; she and other teens had done it safely last year.

Other mothers in the apartment Sunday night echoed the same thought repeatedly - they and their children had always felt safe taking the sidewalk path to IHOP or McDonald's for a fun meal on those final Ramadan nights.

Gazzar loaned her daughter an abaya to wear to the mosque Saturday night, since Nabra didn't typically wear traditional Muslim clothes. She heard from a detective that when the man in the car started shouting at the teens, Nabra tripped over the long garment and fell to the ground, just before she was struck.

"I think it had to do with the way she was dressed and the fact that she's Muslim," Gazzar said. "Why would you kill a kid? What did my daughter do to deserve this?"

Nabra was a diligent student, so much so that although she was extremely proud to get her first job ever at a McDonald's, she quit when her manager didn't understand that studying for a school exam took priority over a work shift.

All four Hassanen girls were born in the United States - the younger ones are 11, 10 and 3. Ali described Nabra as a "daddy's girl" who was close with her father, a bus-and-limo driver. Her father spent Sunday at the mosque, Ali said, beside himself with worry all day.

Gazzar's phone rang yet again, and this time she didn't answer. She turned instead to the hundreds of photos stored on it, scrolling through them until she landed on one of Nabra visiting her parents' homeland in Egypt, laughing as she embraced two of the teen's little sisters.

"They'd all be laughing. They used to be really happy."

She gazed into the girls' eyes, and cried harder.
You won't be able to miss Alabama's contribution to the Paris Air Show.

Two 20-foot tall full-scale models of the Standard Missile-3 and Standard Missile-6, made at Raytheon's Huntsville production facility on Redstone Arsenal, will be on display in Paris as the role of missile defense takes center stage.

"There's a bigger mission focus on missile defense based on what's happening in the world and the security threats we're seeing" said Dr. Taylor Lawrence, an Alabama native and president of Raytheon's Missile Systems business.

Paris, he added, "is a key opportunity to talk about how the SM-3 and SM-6 play a role in missile defense."

Dr. Taylor Lawrence

The 52nd Paris Air Show kicked off today. The event brings hundreds of thousands of people to Paris-Le Bourget Airport, with representatives from all around the world and exhibits from more than 2,300 aerospace and defense vendors.

The presence of heads of state, defense officials and military representatives makes it a natural place to show off the capabilities of the Huntsville-made missiles, Lawrence said.

"The show gives us a chance to meet with people from all over the world in a short period of time," Lawrence said. "It's an opportunity to get together with international and domestic customers, meet with congressional and defense department leaders," who come to show.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey is leading a delegation from the state Department of Commerce to the show. Lawrence said he will meet with the Alabama representatives during the trade show.

Increasing global insecurity

This year's show comes at a time of increasing global unrest and heightened awareness of the role of missile defense. It also comes just after the successful test of the Ground-based Midcourse Defense System that shot down an intercontinental ballistic missile target during first-of-its-kind testing over the Pacific last month. The system uses an Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle, or EKV, produced by Raytheon.

When combined with the SM-3, the EKV has a combined record of 40 successful intercepts ins space.

Like the GMD, the SM-3 and SM-6 are part of a layered defense system.

"The theme of missile defense is having capabilities that are agile and deployable," Lawrence said. "For example, the SM-3 can be on ships or land-based AEGIS defense sites. We're very excited about those capabilities."

The Huntsville facility will play a key role in the development as the interest from international customers grows, Lawrence added.

"There is a lot of hardware going through there and there's a focus on qualify and mission assurance and delivery. There's a great potential for growth there."

Raytheon opened the $75 million, 70,000-square foot production facility at Redstone in 2012. The plant has been expanded since that time as demand for the SM-3- and SM-6 have grown. The SM-6 is an extended range anti-air warfare missile that provides over-the-horizon capabilities against fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles. The SM-3 is part of the Missile Defense Agency's sea-based Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system and is used by the U.S. and Japanese navies to defend against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

The SM-3 Block IIA interceptor, the missile's latest variant, is on track for employment at sea and on land in Poland in 2018, serving as the centerpiece for the European missile defense system.
The U.S. Supreme Court has reversed a ruling from a federal appeals court in an Alabama death row inmate's case.

James McWilliams, 60, has been on death row since 1986 after he was convicted of raping and killing a store clerk in Tuscaloosa. After several appeals focusing on the fact McWilliams did not have an independent mental health expert at his trial, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals denied McWilliams' appeal in 2015.

Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the appeals court decision and remanded the case to back to a lower court for further review.

No execution date has been set for McWilliams.

According to court documents from the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals decision, McWilliams said the Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court where he was convicted should have granted him a continuance before sentencing, because some psychiatric records had only arrived at court the morning of his sentencing. McWilliams lawyers were only permitted to review the documents during a brief recess at the clerk's office, court documents showed.

Before his trial, a Tuscaloosa "Lunacy Commission" of three doctors told the court McWilliams was not mentally ill at the time of the crime, competent to stand trial, and was faking psychotic symptoms.

Dr. John Goff, Cheif of Psychology at Bryce Hospital at the time of McWilliams trial, tested McWilliams and wrote a report to the circuit court. Goff diagnosed McWilliams with "organic personality syndrome." However, the report was delivered to the inmate's lawyers two days before the sentencing hearing, followed by dozens of mental health records and a prison file showing that McWilliams was taking psychotropic drugs.

The judge refused the defense's request to delay the hearing, and sentenced McWilliams to death.

Later, McWilliams filed a Rule 32 petition stating his counsel was ineffective both at trial and at sentencing. In 2001, the Alabama circuit court denied the petition and in 2004, the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals denied to review the case.

Justice Stephen Breyer delivered the majority opinion Monday. In the opinion, he stated, "In reaching this conclusion, however, the Eleventh Circuit only considered whether '[a] few additional days to review Dr. Goff 's findings' would have made a difference. It did not specifically consider whether access to the type of meaningful assistance in evaluating, preparing, and presenting the defense... would have mattered. There is reason to think that it could have."

"The trial judge relied heavily on his belief that McWilliams was malingering. If McWilliams had the assistance of an expert to explain that '[m]alingering is not inconsistent with serious mental illness,' [from the American Psychiatric Association]... he might have been able to alter the judge's perception of the case," Breyer wrote.

Justice Samuel Alito wrote a dissenting opinion. "We do not tolerate this sort of bait-and-switch tactic from litigants, and we should not engage in it ourselves," he said of McWilliams' previous appeals.

"The Court's approach is acutely unfair to Alabama. The State surely believed that it did not need to brief the second question presented in McWilliams's petition... It will come as a nasty surprise to Alabama that the Court has ruled against it on the very question we declined to review--and without giving the State a fair chance to respond," he wrote.
Juneteenth celebration June 19.JPG

Emancipation day celebration - later known as Juneteenth - is a celebration of the emancipation of the slaves at the end of the Civil War. (Contributed photo/Wikimedia)

Ben Baxter is a Tuscaloosa dweller, a Dothan native, an experienced engineer, and a regular contributor for personal finance and career development topics. He's also a frequent voice on race and faith.

For many of us, we have lived through June 19 or Juneteenth year after year without any hint of its significance in American history.

At its essence, Juneteenth is a day set to commemorate the abolition of slavery. But that detail is not widely known despite Alabama being a former slave state.

If we want to know why we have maintained this oblivion, we should look no further than the State of Alabama's official state holiday calendar.

A quick glance will show that Juneteenth is not listed as an official state holiday. That wouldn't be so bad if three other holidays weren't given top billing as paid off days for state employees in 2017--Robert E. Lee Day (January 16), Confederate Memorial Day (April 24), Jefferson Davis Day (June 5). See a predicament there?

State workers and Alabamians in general will never be able to fully celebrate Juneteenth until something is done about the three aforementioned holidays already on the state calendar. Getting rid of those holidays is a lot easier said than done though.

State workers, despite their ideological beliefs, enjoy having the paid holidays. Because of that, getting rid of those holidays cold turkey is not an option.

One viable solution would be to covert those static holidays into floating holidays that workers can use whenever they please. Another viable solution would be to transition those paid holidays into paid versions of Good Friday, Christmas Eve, and New Year's Eve. In either case, adding Juneteenth to the state calendar becomes much more feasible.

However, given Governor Kay Ivey's recent public support of Confederate memorials and history, Robert E. Lee Day, Confederate Memorial Day, and Jefferson Davis Day seem as if they will endure for years to come. We don't know that for sure, but at this venture, that seems more likely than Alabama suddenly recognizing Juneteenth as an official holiday.

All hope is not lost though. Change can happen. It simply takes a large section of the population to become vocal and fed up. It takes voters showing signs of not re-electing incumbents back into office. If we ever want Juneteenth to be better recognized, we have to fight for that to happen.

Until those methods have proven successful, try to celebrate Juneteenth as much as possible even without state support. To do that, try reading the Emancipation Proclamation with family regardless of family racial makeup, visiting the annual Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, or starting a meaningful friendship with someone of a different race. The only wrong choice is making no choice at all.

Happy Juneteenth!
A breakdown of the different social media reactions to the Qatar-GCC rift.

The recent short-term suspension of Al Jazeera Arabics Twitter account highlights the fact that a major part of the commentary, rumours and backlash surrounding the Gulf diplomatic crisis and the blockade on Qatar took place online.

Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Egypt and a number of other countries in the region severed diplomatic and economic relations with Qatar on June 5, accusing it of supporting terrorism and Iran. Qatar has continuously rejected the accusations.

Heres a look back at the tweets, hashtags and Instagram drama that dominated the ongoing Gulf tensions.

Attempting to dispel rumours

Several Twitter users took on the role of good Samaritan, attempting to dispel rumours or fake news trickling onto social platforms.

They pointed out fake Twitter accounts spreading false news and sent out general warnings to stay aware of the propaganda.

"any obstruction of passage or progress" And cuz we are comfortable we can make cows fly. That's called a counterblockade #QatarCrisis https://t.co/Aq1sZIuRAO     (@NasserFAlKhater) June 12, 2017

There appears to be an increase in fake Twitter accounts claiming to be from #Qatar attacking GCC leaders & widening the divide. #GCCCrisis https://t.co/Hdt7t2f2X9   (@MoeFakhro) June 10, 2017

This tweet warned against a false account spreading news of the Emirs fathers death.

         

         

"     " pic.twitter.com/FFS6KQIPiN    (@khalidjassem74) June 11, 2017

Sharing stories of hardships

The consequences of the decision by Gulf and other Arab countries to cut ties with Qatar manifested on Twitter posts of Qataris stuck in Jeddahs airport, Qatari students forced to leave the UAE during exams, and families separated by borders.

Qataris stranded @ Jedda airport, after Saudi authorities banning them from boarding

Qatar's consul is following up,providing private planes https://t.co/qir3yFu4YP  Reem Al-Harmi   (@Reem_AlHarmi) June 5, 2017

A Qatari got into an accident in #Saudi but they refused to ship it on a breakdown truck, so he drove it to #Qatar's border.#GCCCrisis https://t.co/O0zuApRKJT  Reem Al-Harmi   (@Reem_AlHarmi) June 7, 2017

However, suddenly it was hard for them to allow us to take the exams because our presence in the UAE was "illegal". 2#___  .  (@DrHaya) June 10, 2017

Humour

For some, the Gulf rift has seemed ludicrous, at best. The Twittersphere has provided comic relief throughout the rising tensions.

https://twitter.com/Al_Anood/status/874558517323157504

Is this GCC or a political spin-off of Mean Girls? #youcantsitwithus  Abdallah (@Litheeth) June 5, 2017

The Maldives randomly cutting ties with Qatar is like their last shot in playing the political field before they sink in from global warming  johara (@____aljohara) June 5, 2017

This week I ate more fresh food than what I had in my entire life. Please don't end this "crisis."  Faisal Al Saai (@falsaai) June 9, 2017



https://twitter.com/Fahoods/status/875718201732157442

Translation: We didnt hear any of the boycotting nations say they would stop importing gas from Qatar. Its like a child who pretends to be mad at his dad but still takes school money from him.

I swear.

"We're a little upset right now so we're going to take you out of a war"

"Uhm, thank you?" https://t.co/0La65xRqg5  Haya Al-Thani (@hayabntalwaleed) June 5, 2017

The poll

Infamously, Emirati academic Abdulkhaleq Abdulla decided to poll Twitter users on their thoughts regarding the situation.

He asked: What are your thoughts on boycotting and embargoing Qatar?

The options in the poll were: Strongly Agree, Strongly Disagree, and Neutral.

But the poll appears to have backfired. It showed that 64 percent of voters were against the diplomatic rift. Abdulla quickly removed the tweet after Nasser al-Shaikh, a former Emirati government official advised him to do so.

With all due respect to your character and intellect, I do not see that the contents of this poll are suitable, in light of the law criminalizing opposition to the state, al-Shaikh tweeted.

A Qatari Twitter user recorded the incident in an epigram. Short story: The venerable professor uploaded an innocent survey, when out of nowhere he received guidance, so he listened, obeyed and deleted

           ..   .. ..  .. pic.twitter.com/02qB34m3ax      (@ramzan_alnaimi) June 10, 2017

Hashtags

There were also several hashtags touting support for either side of the conflict.

Hashtags in support of Qatar included phrases in Arabic such as, #__ (Qatar feels sorry for you), #__ (Umrah visa for Qataris) and #____ (people of the Gulf refuse to boycott Qatar).

There were also several in support of Saudi Arabia, such as #____ (Yes gentlemen, this is Saudi)

A barrage of Instagram comments

The fight also extended to Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Zayeds Instagram account.

Qatari Twitter users allegedly hounded his posts with comments, forcing him to remove the comments section from his account. It remains blocked to this day.

OMG this is too funny!  When Qataris troll, they take it to new levels! pic.twitter.com/QibCdeQz0l

https://twitter.com/AhoudAlThani/status/873825731876225024
Two journalists are among more than 200 people facing felony charges after mass arrests at Inauguration Day rally.

Even when heavily armed riot police closed off a square block and surrounded protesters, media workers and legal observers alike, independent journalist Alexei Wood did not realise he was about to be arrested.

It didnt even cross my mind that was what was happening, the 37-year-old photographer and videographer told Al Jazeera. I was waiting for an order of dispersal and the mass of people showed no sign of resistance when the police completely surrounded them.





Yet on that day, January 20, protesters and observers say the order to disperse never came, and more than 230 people were arrested during protests against the inauguration of right-wing US President Donald Trump.

Like other media workers who travelled to the capital from across the country for Trumps inauguration, Wood was covering the mass protests that gripped the city.

Most of the protests that took place in the city that day passed without violence or mass arrests. Wood, however, was scooped up by police during the anti-fascist blocs march.

The arrests came after Black Bloc anarchists and anti-fascists clashed with police. Officers fired a volley of rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters and launched concussion grenades into the crowd.

By the end of the day, the windows of cafes, restaurants and banks had been broken. The US Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia claims that more than $100,000 in damage was inflicted upon property, cars and buildings.

READ MORE: Anti-Trump protester  Is this my last free birthday?

Most of the 230 people arrested were the following day charged with felony rioting  charges that carry a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $25,000. Among them were Wood and other journalists.

A handful of arrested journalists, including Alex Rubinstein of RT and Evan Engle of Vocativ, subsequently had the charges against them dropped.

Facing decades behind bars

But on April 27, the Superior Court of the District of Columbia returned a superseding indictment which added additional charges for some 212 defendants, three of whom had not previously been charged.

Along with fellow journalist Aaron Cantu, Wood was given additional charges.

Cantu has reported for a wide range of outlets, including the now defunct Al Jazeera America, the Baffler and The Intercept, and is currently employed as a staff writer at the Santa Fe Reporter in New Mexico. At the time of his arrest, he was working on a freelance basis and had reportedly pitched the story to VICE News.

With new felony charges  including urging to riot, conspiracy to riot and destruction of property  many of the defendants are facing between 70 and 80 years behind bars.

Tallied together, Wood potentially faces more than 70 years behind bars for five felony property destruction charges and three felony rioting charges. He will have his second status hearing later this month.

Cantu, who pleaded not guilty in recent weeks, also faces charges that carry more than 70 years in prison, despite court documents not naming him in any individual acts of violence or vandalism.

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Woods work focuses on social justice struggles and resistance movements.

READ MORE: US anti-fascists take on alt-right fight squads

Speaking to Al Jazeera by email, Jelahn Stewart of the US Attorneys Office for DC declined to comment at present. The Metropolitan Police Department also refused to comment.

Wood said that the implications of the defendants cases are humungous for striking fear into protesters. The state is not just going after window-breakers, which in itself may not be justified.

Instead, the state seeks to criminalise dissent by indiscriminately arresting more than 200 people and imposing a slew of felony charges that carry the potential of decades in prison, Wood continued. But it also means if were [journalists] too close to a newsworthy story, we could be facing more than 70 years.

Livestream video

During the anti-fascist march, Wood broadcasted a livestream video on his professional Facebook page. I used that platform to provide uninterrupted, unedited and live coverage, he recalled.

Throughout the 42-minute video on his Facebook page, Wood provided commentary, often shouting excitedly. In one part, he addressed his audience: I hope yall are f***ing watching this. Youre idiots if youre not.

The video followed the black-clad anarchists and anti-fascists as they marched through the streets, periodically chanting: Whose streets? Our streets.

In other parts, they sang: One, two, three, f*** the bourgeoisie. Four, five, six, f*** the bourgeoisie.

Others screamed f*** capitalism as they launched projectiles and swung bars at the windows of a Bank of America branch.

A masked man covered from head-to-toe in black stopped and spray painted on a wall: Revolution or death.

A group of marchers veered off the path for a moment to batter the window of a limousine, leaving broken glass behind them.

The bloc eventually met police, who confronted them with pepper spray, rubber bullets and other riot control weapons.

The video shows Wood holding up his hands at the police officers request and complying with orders. Most importantly, at no point does the footage suggest that he was an active participant in the protest or that he engaged in property destruction.

The livestream speaks for itself. Its right there for everybody to see. I love that its there for everybody to see because I want individual people to see my work and make their own decision, he said. I think its a very clear case.

Yet returning to work was initially a challenge and he was only able to start documenting protests again on International Workers Day, May 1.

I had to overcome a bodily fear of police and of being arrested, pepper-sprayed and hit with flashbang grenades, he said. It was a big healthy step forward to merely continue what Ive been doing for years.

Condemnation

Sam Menefee-Libey of the DC Legal Posse, an activist group that supports the defendants, described the charges as an attempt to frighten those who stand up to the government, as well as the journalists who document protests.

Including the journalists in the superseding indictment means they arent just trying to criminalise the resistance of active dissenters but trying to prevent people from getting any sort of description of the events outside the police narrative and characterisation of these actions, he told Al Jazeera.

He added: Nonetheless, their charges make as little sense as the charges everyone else is facing.

Speaking to Al Jazeera by email, Cantu said that prosecutors apparently stacked the charges against the defendants as a means of silencing them.

The more attention there is to our cases, the more the outrage has grown, he said. Im still learning how to use my voice when theres so much at risk, but when it comes to journalism, Im reporting as rigorously and doggedly as I was before my arrest.

In February, the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press questioned the Attorneys Offices decision to charge Cantu.

Journalists are not above the law and have no right to incite a riot or engage in acts of assault or vandalism, the group noted in a statement (PDF).

But the reason for Mr Cantus arrest, however, seems to be exactly the same as the other six journalists, who have now seen the charges against them dropped.

Carlo Piantini is another of the defendants and was among those arrested when the police kettled the mass of protesters. He is now facing up to eight decades behind bars.

READ MORE: US anti-fascists can make racists afraid again

Speaking to Al Jazeera by email, the 25-year-old activist from North Carolina recalled MPD officers using pepper spray and concussion grenades as crowd control against protesters.

He echoed the accusations that the government is using the Inauguration Day defendants to intimidate people at a time of increasing discontent with the Trump administration.

Their [the state] weapon is to criminalise that resistance through mass arrests, surveillance and drawn out cases with excessive [legal] charges, he said.

Theyre betting that upping the charges for organised acts of resistance will slow public outrage to their unacceptable agenda, he added. Our charges are just another aspect of this regimes desire to crush any opposition that rises against it.

He added: This case highlights a key issue in our society: That property is more important than human lives, and that windows deserve more respect than our bodies.

A clear message

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed concern that police pepper sprayed protesters who were already detained and posed no threat to the officers.

Scott Michelman, senior staff attorney at the ACLU-DC, said his organisation worries that police used excessive force against peaceful demonstrators and detained a great number of demonstrators solely because they were in the same vicinity as people who may have committed unlawful acts.

He explained that the prosecutors have also sparked concern by seeking to impose lengthy sentences through handing out a host of ostensibly harsh charges.

The actions of the prosecutor, in this case, are just as concerning as the actions of the police, Michelman added, arguing that the US Attorneys Office is sending a clear message that demonstrators exercising their First Amendment rights are not welcome in DC.

OPINION: Milo and the hypocrisy behind free speech claims

An investigation by the DC Mayors Office into the days events suggests that police used riot control weapons without justification and made arrests indiscriminately.

The report (PDF) said police engaged in widespread use of the weapons on Inauguration Day, and they appeared to be deployed as a means of crowd control, and not necessarily in response to an unlawful action.

It concluded that the weapons were used indiscriminately and that evidence suggested police did not provide warnings or orders to disperse.

Earlier this month, the DC Council passed next years budget, which allocated $150,000 for the Office of Police Complaints to review the MPDs behaviour and decisions during the mass arrests.

Bigger than me

More than 130 of the defendants have joined a Points of Unity agreement, a collective pledge to reject any potential plea deals and reject cooperation with the prosecutors that comes at the expense of their codefendants.

A handful of defendants have made deals with the authorities and entered guilty pleas in exchange for significantly shorter sentences.

In late May, 21 defendants filed motions (PDF) to have their cases dismissed. Later this month, more than 50 defendants will have their cases reviewed in a pair of status hearings.

As protests flourish in cities and towns across the US, at least 18 states have considered 30-plus bills designed to curb protests by introducing increasingly severe penalties for demonstrators so far this year.

READ MORE: Alt-right rally draws protests in Portland, Oregon

The United Nations warned in March that 16 such bills, if passed, will violate international human rights law and have a chilling effect on protesters.

The bills would strip the voices of the most marginalised, who often find the right to assemble the only alternative to express their opinions, the UN report (PDF) said.

For his part, Alexei Wood maintains that he stands in solidarity with his codefendants. This case is so much bigger than myself and the more than 200 people who got arrested with me, he concluded.

This could be precedent setting for resistance movements in general, but also independent journalism in the era of Trump.

Follow Patrick Strickland on Twitter: @P_Strickland_
Electricity in Gaza is set to become yet more scarce as supplies to the strip will be scaled back by 40 percent.

For the almost two million people who live in the Gaza Strip, electricity has become a luxury.

Residents of the besieged enclave receive about four hours of electricity a day, and a recent agreement between the Palestinian Authority and Israel reduces Gazas electricity by another 40 percent.

READ MORE: Mass protests on Gaza\s borders over electricity crisis

Israels power plant, which supplies 125 megawatts, or 30 percent of the total electricity needs of the Gaza Strip, will scale back to at least 40 percent.

The Gaza Strip requires 450 megawatts daily, but currently only receives around 150 megawatts. The reduction in electricity is widely seen as an attempt by President Mahmoud Abbas to cripple the rival Hamas leadership in Gaza.

READ MORE: Palestine Remix  Gaza left in the dark

Gazas sole power plant, which supplied 60 megawatts, shut down in April after it ran out of fuel. Prior to its shutdown, the Palestinian Authority removed a tax exemption on diesel fuel, doubling the price as a result.
Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos, soon to be the worlds richest man, needs our help spending his money.

Not on cars, houses, spaceships or overpriced grocery stores, mind you. Rather, on philanthropy.

Bezos hasnt said precisely how much of his estimated $80bn net worth he plans to give away in the coming years. Unlike business titans such as Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and other members of the worlds 0.01 percent, whove declared their intention to give away the lions share of their vast wealth as part of The Giving Pledge project, Bezos has so far donated only a few tens of millions of dollars to charity.





Its also clear that hes seen the Washington Post, which he purchased in 2013, and his company Blue Origin, which develops technologies to move heavy industry off the planet in order to reduce its environmental impact, as charity efforts of a sort.

But now he wants to spend money to help change the world. This tweet is a request for ideas  Im thinking of a philanthropy strategy that is the opposite of how I mostly spend my time  working on the long term  [on businesses that] are contributing to society and civilization in their own ways.

Im not sure how much Amazon.com has contributed to civilisation, but theres no doubt its made my life a lot easier, and probably those of many readers as well. Now, however, he wants to focus on the intersection of urgent need and lasting impact.

Like tens of thousands of other people, I tweeted Bezos my thoughts about what he could spend his money on. For me, grassroots media literacy and music projects, such as the Cmapping and Chicoco community projects I work with in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, offer a good model to empower highly marginalised communities in societies  whether the United States or global South  where they have little access to power holders.

OPINION: Amazonians of the world, unite!

But as I typed several 140 character messages hoping Bezos might find interesting, it also occurred to me: If Bezos has tens of billions of dollars to spare, why doesnt he spend it closer to home  like on his own workers?

The founders of Amazon.com, Uber, facebook, Apple, Tesla and the rest of the new economy titans might well be 21st-century visionaries when it comes in product design and services. But a large share of their workforce is toiling in 19th-century conditions by

Bezos might be shooting for the stars, but there is no way hes not fully aware of how his warehouse workers back here on earth are fairing. Search Amazon.com workers conditions and you get 13,500,000 results in less than a second, the vast majority describing just how stressful, precarious, and often low-paying the jobs of the people who actually make sure our orders get on a truck are.

The New York Times describes the warehouses as bruising workplaces, where when you hit the wall from the unrelenting pace of work, the only option is to climb the wall and work harder  back, foot, head, or arm injuries be damned. A Huffington Post expose revealed workplace deaths for overstressed temp workers.

Conditions overseas are even worse, with workers at a Scottish warehouse describing intolerable conditions, as revealed in a 2013 BBC documentary, Amazon The Truth Behind the Click, which produced calls for a parliamentary inquiry. Even German workers and their vaunted unions are struggling under brutal conditions in the Amazon jungle.

A large percentage of Amazon.com workers are paid close to minimum wage, and the latest technologies are being used not to improve overall productivity, but to squeeze ever more labour out of them for the same low wages. Think about this: In 2016 alone, Bezos amassed $27.6bn, largely through the rise in the value of company shares. This amount is enough to pay each of Amazons worldwide employees a salary of $80,938, or a wage of roughly $39 per hour.

In its warehouse in Tracy, CA, not far from San Francisco, wages start at $13.50 an hour, with a cap of $15 an hour. Presently the minimum wage in California is $10.50 and it is slated to rise to $15 by 2022. The national average for its wage workers is between $11-12 an hour. If you want to know how Amazon.com can afford to ship you everything for free in two days or less, this is certainly one of the main reasons why.

READ MORE: Oxfam  Eight men are as rich as half the world

And Amazon.coms cheap prices and free shipping have a spillover effect across the online sales industry and even retail stores, forcing everyone else to cut their prices to compete, which in turn demands depressed wages and bad working conditions to keep making a profit. This is the walmartisation of the online economy, and the consequences are as negative for workers in the e-conomy as they were for the workforce a generation ago, when Walmart became the Amazon.com of its day by undercutting competitors prices through ruthless efficiency and paying its workers so little they couldnt afford to shop anywhere but Walmart.

Not surprisingly, today Amazon.coms sick brutality is being described as worse than Walmart. Compare this to Henry Ford, who created an economic paradigm that lasted well over a half-century by paying his workers enough so they could afford his cars, thus helping create the very concept of a middle class and the American dream that came with it.





Its worth noting that its not just Amazon.coms warehouse workers who are suffering. At the white collar, corporate level, a 2015 investigation by the New York Times revealed an intense, often cutthroat workplace where senior managers encourage their reports to attack one anothers ideas in meetings.

Of course, Amazon.com is not alone in its workforce abuse problem. Media darling Tesla, which has made unmistakable contributions to the fight against global warming with its electric cars and now solar initiatives, still cant manage to provide a work environment that doesnt involve long hours, low pay and unsafe conditions. Facebooks legions of content moderators, most of whom work on contract in developing countries, face similar conditions.

Uber might be under scrutiny for sexual harassment and a hyper-competitive corporate culture, but its drivers are suffering far worse than executives, with the companys leasing programme for drivers locking many into predatory leases which, along with depressed wages (which are, in turn, lowering wages for taxi and other drivers) are literally driving people to homelessness.

The founders of Amazon.com, Uber, Facebook, Apple, Tesla and the rest of the new economy titans might well be 21st-century visionaries when it comes in product design and services. But a large share of their workforce is toiling in 19th-century conditions (the missing link that connects the two is, of course, the absence of strong unions to fight for the rights of wage workers today). If Jeff Bezos really wants to address an urgent need and have lasting impact he can start by paying his workers a living wage and ensuring safe work conditions.

Editors note: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that the minumum wage in California is $15. It is actually $10.50.

Mark LeVine is a professor of Middle Eastern history at University of California, Irvine, and a distinguished visiting professor at Lund University.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
The media has been quick to associate Qatars decision to withdraw its peacekeeping forces from the disputed Djibouti-Eritrea border with the Gulf crisis. This connection was most likely made because Qatars decision came only days after both Djibouti and Eritrea announced that they are siding with Saudi Arabia in the diplomatic rift and downgraded their diplomatic relations with Qatar.





The withdrawal of troops, if understood as a knee-jerk reaction, contrasts markedly with how Qatar has been operating since the start of the crisis. Qatar has not reciprocated the harsh, punitive moves of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in a tit-for-tat spiral of vindictiveness. Nor has it reacted to countries which have reduced diplomatic relations, such as Jordan, by taking retaliatory measures against its thousands of nationals working in Qatar.

While Qatar Airways offices have been sealed off in Abu Dhabi and its senior staff harassed, no such measures have been taken by Doha. Furthermore, while food supplies through Saudi Arabia and the UAE were cut, Qatar continues to supply the latter with around 57 million cubic metres of gas daily. This shows that Qatar continues to play the long game by taking the moral high ground  a strategy that looks to have paid off given the number of international diplomatic capitals that have refused to cave into the intense lobbying of Saudi Arabia and the UAE to vilify Qatar.

READ MORE: Africa and the Gulf crisis: the peril of picking sides

Given what we know about how Qatar has operated during the crisis, the explanation that the troop withdrawal is purely a knee-jerk reaction to the downgrading of diplomatic ties does not add up. Doubtlessly, with downgraded relations, Qatar finds itself in a difficult position as a mediator and peacekeeper between the two nations. No mediator can operate effectively with reduced representation, both on a practical and reputational level. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that the decision has been made in a retaliatory manner. Rather, there are three less evident reasons for why the decision to withdraw has been on the cards for some time and why it is now impossible for anyone in Qatar to advocate for maintaining the peacekeeping force.

The potential fallout of the crisis could have ripple waves spiralling out of the border dispute to the much larger Eritrea-Ethiopia conflict and the rest of the Horn of Africa at a time when the sub-region is facing a massive humanitarian crisis. by

First of all, a fundamental principle of conflict mediation is that any third party must maintain a credible threat to walk away if the conflicting parties are not committed to reaching a negotiated settlement. Qatari troops have, for the past seven years, been stationed in the dusty uninhabited border region between the two East African countries to monitor the implementation of the terms of a ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar in June 2010.

Despite consistent attempts to turn the ceasefire into a peace agreement, little progress has been made. A minor breakthrough was achieved in March 2016 when, in a deal mediated by Qatar, Eritrea released four prisoners from Djiboutis armed forces who were captured in June 2008 during border clashes. However, in the past year, the Eritrean negotiating team has disengaged from the mediation process despite the United Nations Security Council mandated-arms embargo on Eritrea being re-approved in November 2016, demanding that Eritrea release all missing prisoners and allow UN monitors to enter the country.

The two states, particularly Eritrea, have not heeded calls for border demarcation and have gone into denial by refusing to refer to the border conflict as a serious issue. The presence of the Qatari peacekeepers had allowed both parties to grow accustomed to the status quo of a mutually beneficial stalemate.

Second, Djibouti and Eritrea consistently engage in a geostrategic game of shifting alliances. When Qatar entered the fray, the Djibouti-Eritrea border dispute was a minor conflict with very few international actors showing an appetite for mediation. Since then Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti has expanded to become the largest US military base in the region, China has also entered Djibouti, while, in April 2015, Saudi Arabia and Eritrea signed a security cooperation agreement and the UAE is currently completing the construction of a military base north of the port city of Assab in Eritrea from where its armed forces have been operating in the military campaign in Yemen. This particular corner of the Horn of Africa is by now far too crowded for a small nation like Qatar to justify its military presence as a buffer.

READ MORE: Qatar-Gulf crisis: All the latest updates

Third, maintaining the 500-strong presence of Qatari troops in a remote area is a costly and largely thankless endeavour. While the withdrawal was doubtlessly hastened by the changes in diplomatic relations with Eritrea and Djibouti, this has more to do with the infiltration of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia into Eritrea. This military presence clearly renders Qatari troops stationed thousands of miles away in an isolated area a soft target for direct or indirect retaliation. Moreover, 500 troops represent a significant investment of military manpower for an armed forces of around 12,000 during the most urgent crisis the country has faced in its history.

With Eritrea moving its forces into the contested Dumeira Mountain and Dumeira Islands, the temperature of the conflict has been increased and the situation is now more explosive than ever before, for all actors involved. The rapid development of the situation demonstrates the important stabilising role that Qatar had played under the radar for many years.

Moreover, the potential fallout of the crisis could have ripple waves spiralling out of the border dispute to the much larger Eritrea-Ethiopia conflict and the rest of the Horn of Africa at a time when the sub-region is facing a massive humanitarian crisis. This should serve as a cautionary note for the potential of escalation in other places where Qatari assistance has been keeping the lid on conflict, in particular, the Gaza Strip, where as a result of the increased isolation of Qatar by its Gulf neighbours we may see the end of the single most important donor to the reconstruction of the besieged territory to date. This should focus the minds of world leaders on the need to resolve the Gulf crisis amicably as soon as possible.

Professor Sultan Barakat is the director of the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies and professor in the Department of Politics at the University of York.

Dr Sansom Milton is a senior research fellow at the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
UAE minister says we do not want to escalate, we want to isolate as Saudi blocs blockade on Qatar enters third week.

Qatars diplomatic isolation could last years, a UAE minister has said during a visit to Paris.

The comments by Anwar Gargash, UAE state minister for foreign affairs, accusing Qatar of supporting jihadists, come as the deadline for Qataris to leave three Arab Gulf countries  UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain  expires.

Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Egypt and a number of other countries severed diplomatic and economic relations with Qatar on June 5, accusing it of supporting terrorism and Iran.

Qatar has strenuously rejected the accusations.

READ MORE: Get all the latest updates on the Qatar-Gulf crisis

In his remarks on Monday, Gargash said we do not want to escalate, we want to isolate, but insisted that Qatar must abandon its support for extremist Islamists before a solution can be brokered.

Earlier in the day, Sheikh Saif bin Ahmed Al Thani, director of Qatars Government Communications Office, said in a statement: The blockade has been ongoing for two weeks and the blockading nations have offered no formula for resolving the crisis.

It is unfortunate that our neighbours have chosen to invest their time and resources in a baseless propaganda campaign.

Sheikh Saif bin Ahmed dismissed the Saudi blocs terrorism accusations as a publicity stunt.

Turkish position

As for Turkey, which has emerged as the foremost supporter of Qatar since the Arab Gulf dispute began on June 5, Gargash said the country is trying, for now, to remain balanced between ideological zeal and national interests in dealing with the Gulf diplomatic crisis.

The Qatari defence ministry announced on Sunday the arrival of the first group of Turkish soldiers in the capital, Doha, to take part in joint military exercises.

READ MORE: Rights body highlights human cost of Qatar blockade

The forces conducted their first training at the Tariq bin Ziyad military base, the ministry said.

The defence ministry said the exercises had been long planned and were part of a mutual agreement aimed at strengthening the defence capabilities of both countries, as well as boosting efforts to combat armed groups and maintaining stability in the region.

Earlier this month, Turkeys parliament fast-tracked the approval of a separate agreement with Qatar that allowed troops to be deployed to a Turkish military base in the Arab Gulf state.
Authorities say relevant procedures are being taken following the blast, which it blamed on terrorist.

Bahrains interior ministry says a member of the security forces has been killed and two others have been wounded after a blast in Diraz, the home village of Shia-Muslim spiritual leader Ayatollah Isa Qassim.

The ministry said on its Twitter account on Sunday that relevant procedures were being taken following the explosion, which it blamed on terrorists.

There were no more immediate details.

On-duty policeman dies, two injured in terror blast in Deraz. Relevant procedures are being taken  Ministry of Interior (@moi_bahrain) June 18, 2017

Last month, authorities launched a security operation to maintain public order in Diraz, where a sit-in by Qassims supporters had been going on for months.

Five people were killed during the police raid on the village, west of the capital, Manama, on May 23.

The government said the aim of that operation was to arrest suspected fighters and others wanted on security charges. At least 286 were detained as they confronted advancing police, who used tear gas and birdshot.

READ MORE: Clashes grip Ayatollah Isa Qassims village

Qassims supporters accused authorities of using excessive force, while a UN human rights chief urged an investigation into the raid, which he called a crackdown on dissent.

The operation followed Qassims sentencing earlier in May to one year in jail, suspended for three years, on charges of corruption.

The cleric faces expulsion from the kingdom after authorities revoked his citizenship last year for alleged links to Iran and fomenting violence, charges he has denied.
Under the accord, armed groups will be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks.

The government of the Central African Republic (CAR) has signed an immediate ceasefire deal with rebel groups at a meeting in Italys capital, Rome, aimed at ending violence in the strife-torn country.

Under Mondays accord, armed groups will be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks and blockades, and their members will be brought into the countrys armed forces.

We commit to the immediate implementation by political-military groups of a country-wide ceasefire, to be monitored by the international community, as a fundamental step on the way to definitive peace, the deal read.

The government undertakes to ensure military groups are represented at all levels and are recognised as part of the reconstruction efforts, it said.

The rebel groups pledged to ensure the free movement of people and goods by removing illegal barriers as an immediate consequence of the ceasefire.

The accord was mediated by the Roman Catholic Sant Egidio peace group, and calls for an immediate end to hostilities and the recognition of legitimate authorities following the last elections.

The country, one of the poorest in the world, has been plagued by inter-religious and inter-communal conflict since 2013 between the mainly Muslim Seleka rebels and the Christian Anti-Balaka militia that started after the overthrow of leader Francois Bozize.

READ MORE: CAR tops list of worlds most neglected crises

History of instability

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres voiced concern this month over the widespread instability and attacks on UN troops in the CAR, after a month of renewed violence which forced tens of thousands to flee conflict-ravaged areas.

In May this year, the UNs refugee agency said that there were more than 500,000 internally displaced persons in the country.

In fact, CAR has enjoyed little stability since gaining its independence from France in 1960.

Five years later President David Dacko was overthrown by Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who took charge in January 1966 and crowned himself emperor in 1977 in a wildly extravagant ceremony that made waves around the world.

READ MORE- CAR: Church shelters Muslims fleeing Anti-Balaka

The French drove Bokassa out on September 20, 1979, while he was on a visit to Libya. Dacko was reinstated, but two years later forced to hand power over to senior military officers.

A multi-party system was unveiled in 1991, but then three mutinies in 1996-97 were followed by a failed coup in 2001.

Bozize, a former military chief, rebelled and took over in 2003. Several more rebellions followed and France intervened with help from Chadian soldiers in November 2006 to recapture towns in the north that had fallen to rebel forces.

Bozize was re-elected in 2011, though the vote was marred by fraud; he was overthrown in March 2013 by mostly Muslim rebels from the Seleka coalition, who were in turn overthrown a year later by a military intervention led by the former colonial ruler.

Those events sparked the bloodiest sectarian violence in the countrys history as mainly Christian militias sought revenge against their Muslim rivals.

Poverty





The CAR is rich in natural resources, including diamonds, uranium, timber, gold and oil.

However, the chronic crises have greatly harmed key sectors, and economic activity now comprises mainly subsistence agriculture.

Almost 70 percent of the countrys 4.8 million inhabitants live in poverty, and in 2015 the World Bank estimated per capita income at $330, making it one of the worlds poorest countries.

Administrations have been paralysed by the unrest, and the customs, tax and public treasury services are unable to collect funds needed to pay salaries and pensions.

Gross domestic product plunged by 36 percent amid the unrest in 2013 but managed to expand by a slight one percent in 2014.

In March, the country came in last of 155 nations surveyed in the annual World Happiness Report.

However, an International Monetary Fund report last month projected economic growth at 4.7 percent assuming the ongoing dialogue with armed groups helps to reduce violence and public and private investment rebound.
EU Foreign Affairs head Federica Mogherini says region already dangerous enough, warning of conflict spill-overs.

The European Union has called on Gulf countries to de-escalate the tensions and to engage in direct dialogue following the ongoing crisis between Qatar and other Arab states in the region.

Speaking after her arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg on Monday, EU Foreign Affairs head Federica Mogherini said: Any difficulty, any tension, can be and must be resolved at a table, discussing, in dialogue, finding common ways, and politically.

We invite all to de-escalate the tensions and to engage in direct dialogue, Mogherini said. No unilateral steps.

Counting the cost of the Qatar-Gulf crisis

Mogherini said that the European Union has a direct interest in having the dispute resolved, considering that the Gulf countries are its partners in fighting terrorism, in resolving other regional conflicts, and in developing the regions economy.

The region is already fragile enough, dangerous enough, and we are starting to see dangerous spill-overs already both in the broader region but also in Africa and in Asia.

There are worrying signals, she said. So we really invite all to find a way to solve any tension, any controversies, at a table, discussing through dialogue, politically, without exacerbating tensions.

It is always possible and even more so has to be possible among countries that belong to the Gulf Cooperation Countries.

On June 5, five Arab countries  Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Yemen  cut diplomatic relations with Qatar, accusing Doha of supporting terrorism.

Qatar has denied the accusations, calling the moves to diplomatically isolate it unjustified.
Amnesty says deadline imposed by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and UAE shows utter contempt for human dignity.

The deadline for Qatari citizens to leave neighbouring Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain came into effect on Monday, as the diplomatic rift enters its third week with no end in sight.





The three countries, which cut diplomatic ties and imposed an economic blockade on Qatar on June 5, had given Qatari citizens 14 days to leave.

They also urged their own citizens in Qatar to leave and threatened imprisonment and fines for anyone who criticises the measures.

Officials of the three states later clarified there would be exceptions for mixed-nationality families.

Rights group Amnesty International said, however, such measures are clearly insufficient to address the human rights impact of the arbitrary, blanket measures.

Amnesty International said it shows utter contempt for human dignity.

This arbitrary deadline has caused widespread uncertainty and dread amongst thousands of people who fear they will be separated from their loved ones, Amnestys James Lynch said in a statement.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain have all announced hotlines to help families with Qatari members, their official news agencies said last week. These hotlines have been criticised by Qatari human rights groups as little more than a face-saving exercise.

READ MORE: Get all the latest updates on the Qatar-Gulf crisis

On Wednesday, the UN human rights chief Zeid Raad al-Hussein said he was alarmed by the possible impact of the diplomatic isolation of Qatar, warning it could lead to widespread suffering among ordinary people.

He said the directives issued by Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain to address the humanitarian needs of families with joint nationalities appeared to be inadequate, and his office had received reports of specific individuals being ordered to return home or to leave the country they are residing in.

Among those likely to be badly affected are couples in mixed marriages and their children; people with jobs or businesses based in states other than that of their nationality; and students studying in another country, he said.





Qatars National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) has also said it has received hundreds of complaints from those affected by the ongoing rift.

In the first week we had 700 complaints, NHRCs Saad al-Abdulla told Al Jazeera. In the last four or five days, the numbers have risen significantly.

He added that the organisation has received more than 100 complaints a day. Many involved residents who said they have been forced to abandon businesses and careers built across borders.

READ MORE: Qatar priority to address sieges humanitarian impact

According to a report released by the NHRC on Thursday, the rights of more than 13,000 citizens of the four GCC countries involved in the crisis have been directly violated by the blockade.

In some cases, the actions taken by these states separated mothers from their children, it said.

The NHRC said it has hired lawyers to take legal measures to restore the rights of aggrieved Qatari nationals.

The organisation has also taken the matter before the UN Human Rights Council.
US says the plane dropped bombs near coalition-backed forces, while Syria says its jet was flying in anti-ISIL mission.

A US fighter jet has shot down a Syrian government plane in Syrias Raqqa province, officials from both sides have said.

The US-led coalition on Sunday said it downed the plane after it dropped bombs on American-backed forces fighting ISIL in northern Syria. Yet, the Syrian army said its jet was on a combat mission against the armed groups fighters near the city of Raqqa, ISILs de facto capital in Syria.

The incident came as a monitoring group reported the first ground fighting between Syrian government troops and the US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters.

READ MORE: Staggering civilian deaths in US-led Raqqa offensive

At 6:43pm (17:43 GMT), a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) fighters south of Tabqa and, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet, the Combined Joint Task Force said in a statement.





It said that two hours earlier, forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad attacked SDF fighters in the town of JaDin south of Tabqa, wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town.

Coalition aircraft then stopped the pro-government forces initial advance with a show of force, the coalition said, adding that it does not seek to fight the Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces but would not hesitate to defend itself or its partnered forces from any threat.

Earlier on Sunday, the Syrian army said that the so-called international alliance today noon targeted the jet over the area of al-Rasafa in the southern countryside of al-Raqqa while it was on a combat mission against the terrorist Daesh, using an Arabic acronym of ISIL, which is also known as ISIS.

The pilot of the jet went missing after this flagrant aggression, the armys command added in a statement, according to Syrias state news agency SANA.

READ MORE: Syrias civil war explained from the beginning

The US-led coalition has in recent weeks escalated its aerial bombing campaign in northern Syria and Raqqa province. US-backed forces have encircled the city of Raqqa and captured several districts from ISIL fighters.

The Syrian army has also taken territory from retreating ISIL fighters in the western Raqqa countryside and seized back some oilfields and villages that had been under the groups control for almost three years.

Following the downing of the Syrian plane, clashes between government troops and coalition-backed fighters broke out in two villages some 40km south of the city of Raqqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
Riyadh says Revolutionary Guard members aboard an explosive-laden boat were apprehended near oil platform in the Gulf.

Iran has denied claims by Saudi Arabia that three of its elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members had been arrested aboard an explosive-laden boat near an oil platform in the Gulf.

Majid Aghababaie, head of border affairs at Irans interior ministry, said the three people detained were fishermen from the southern Iranian port of Bushehr.

There is no proof that they are military personnel, he said, in remarks carried by the ILNA news agency.

Earlier on Monday, Saudi Arabias information and culture ministry said the three people are now being questioned by Saudi authorities.

It is clear this was intended to be a terrorist act in Saudi territorial waters designed to cause severe damage to people and property, the ministry said.

READ MORE: Fears grow over Saudi-Iran row

The latest incident comes at a time of already heightened tensions between the two rival regional powers.

On Sunday, Saudi Arabia said it had seized weapons from a boat captured in the Gulfs Marjan field at about 8:30pm (17:30 GMT) on Friday.

It said the navy fired warning shots when three small boats entered Saudi territorial waters and headed at high speed towards the platforms.

That statement made no mention of explosives and did not detail what type of weapons were found, though it said they were for subversive purposes.

It also made no mention of arrests but said the boats bore red and white flags.

Two of the boats got away, the statement said.

On Saturday, Iran accused the Saudi coastguard of killing one of its fishermen after two fishing boats may have strayed into Saudi waters.

Some officials of the IRGC have also claimed that Saudi Arabia had a hand in attacks in Tehran earlier in June.
Israeli data shows work began on 2,758 dwellings between April 2016 and March 2017, compared with 1,619 the year before.

New settler home constructions in the Israeli-occupied West Bank has soared by 70 percent in the year to March 2017, according to data released by Israels Central Bureau of Statistics.

Work began on 2,758 dwellings since April 2016, compared with 1,619 during the previous 12 months that ended in March 2016.

The figures released on Monday do not include Israeli-annexed East Jerusalem which Israel considers an integral part of its indivisible capital.





Settlement watchdog Peace Now said the settlement boom coincided with a 2.5 percent drop in construction starts inside Israel.

Instead of working to solve the Israeli housing crisis, the government prioritises a radical minority living beyond the boundaries of the state, it said, according to the Reuters news agency.

Such construction continues to distance us from the only way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict  a two-state solution.

More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, that are seen as a major obstacle to peace between Israel and the Palestinians. They live alongside some three million Palestinians.

Highest number since 1992

Israels defence minister said that the country so far this year advanced its highest number of settlement projects since 1992.

Avigdor Lieberman said on June 11 that, so far this year, plans had been advanced for 8,345 homes in the occupied West Bank, including 3,066 slated for immediate construction.

The numbers for the first half of 2017 are the highest since 1992, Lieberman said.

The settlement projects are at various stages in the planning process and the units are located in a number of settlements across the West Bank.

Settlements are seen as illegal under international law and are major stumbling blocks to a solution as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state in a two-state settlement.

More than 600,000 Israeli settlers now live in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, alongside some 2.9 million Palestinians, which critics say makes a two-state agreement highly unlikely.
Man arrested and charged for murder of 17-year-old Nabra, who was last seen near mosque in Sterling near Washington, DC.

Washington, DC  Police have found what are believed to be the remains of a 17-year-old Muslim female who was abducted overnight after leaving her local mosque in Sterling, Virginia, near Washington, DC.

The All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) in Sterling on Monday identified the missing girl as Nabra. Her last name is currently being withheld.

Local media reports that Nabra was a student who just finished her second year of high school.

We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event, ADAMS said in a statement. It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth.

READ MORE: How the US anti-Muslim marches were defeated

Nabra was last seen with a group of Muslim teens in the early hours of Sunday after having a meal at a local 24-hour restaurant near the mosque, where she attended prayers for Ramadan, a 30-day long holiday during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, according to reports from ADAMS and local police.

The group was confronted by a motorist. All others in the group managed to flee.

Police arrested and charged Darwin Martinez Torres, 22, with her murder on Sunday evening.

At a press conference on Sunday, TJ Wright, Fairfax county police public information officer, said there doesnt seem to be any indication that the murder was a hate crime, but more information would come out as the investigation proceeds.

Surge in hate crimes

Anti-Muslim hate crimes have surged in recent years.

According to a report by the Council on American-Islamic Affairs (CAIR), an Islamic civil rights organisation, released in May, there was a 57 percent increase in anti-Muslim bias incidents from 2015 to 2016.

This was accompanied by a 44 percent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes in the same period, the report found.

President Donald Trumps campaign rhetoric and moves to institute a Muslim ban, or halt to immigration from six predominately Muslim nations, has attributed to this rise, critics say.

The community has rallied to support Sterlings Islamic community during its time of need.

Two separate fundraisers  one through GoFundMe, another with Muslim crowdsourcing page LaunchGood  started after news broke of Nabras murder have raised over $50,000.

May Nabra rest in peace. Your community cries for you, Giovani Quinones, a donour to her family, commented on the GoFundMe page.

A community-wide reading of the Quran is also being organised to honour Nabras memory.

ADAMS concluded its statement by thanking their community, government officials and interfaith partners for their prayers and support during these tough times.
Man deliberately crashed into worshippers, witnesses say, as leaders urge more action against anti-Muslim prejudice.

Witnesses at Londons Finsbury Park mosque say a man who crashed a van into a crowd of pedestrians on Monday deliberately targeted Muslims.

The attack early on Monday morning left one man dead and at least 10 others wounded.

The crash occurred at a time when the multi-ethnic neighbourhood was crowded with Muslim worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque after Ramadan prayers.

British Muslim leaders have linked the vehicle attack to Islamophobia and urged Theresa May, UK prime minister, to do more to tackle anti-Muslim rhetoric.

READ MORE: Finsbury Park mosque  Man dies as van hits worshippers

Saeed Hashi, a local resident, told Al Jazeera he saw a white van speeding towards pedestrians soon after he left the mosque and running over at least eight people.

A van speeding very fast came towards us. We thought he was late for work or trying to catch the traffic light before it turned red. Suddenly, he turned towards pedestrians. His first casualty was a woman and three guys. Then he reversed and carried on. And he hit another five people.

When the vehicle came to a halt, Hashi said he and others grabbed the driver, wrestled him to the ground and held him down for 15 minutes until police arrived.

The suspect was angry, and was shouting abusive words, Hashi said.

To be honest, I cant go to the mosque anymore. I am afraid for my safety.

He called for additional security at mosques across the UK.

Kill all Muslims

Khalid Amin told Reuters news agency that the van drove into the crowd without warning, hitting several people, and trapping at least one man underneath as it came to a stop.

The van turned left with no indication, with no even like suddenly, just deliberately left, and then just hit the people, Amin said.

And one of them, he was under the van, people were gathered around the van to actually lift the van up to get this guy up from under the van.

Amin said that when people seized the driver, he was shouting: All Muslims, I want to kill all Muslims. Literally, he said that. Word by word.





Witnesses reported seeing two other men who had been inside the van run away, but police are yet to confirm if others were involved in the attack. A 48-year-old man was arrested, police said.

One man who was leaving the mosque when the attack unfolded described panic and horror in the aftermath.

He told Al Jazeera he saw 12-13 people on the ground, men and women and a lot of blood, hurt people, a woman screaming, people trying to call the police, trying to catch the driver.

Video filmed in the immediate aftermath showed a tall Caucasian man being detained by police. Someone in the crowd yelled to others not to harm the man and another is heard shouting: Why would you do this?

Athmane, a resident in the area, told Al Jazeera the suspect was waving for victory and was smiling after he was taken into custody.

At the time, 15 people were around [on the ground], screaming, asking for help.

Heroes and Islamophobia

Tawfiq al-Qasimi, the leader of the Muslim Welfare House, said the imam of the Finsbury Park mosque saved the suspect from being killed possibly by an angry crowd.

Describing Imam Mohamed Mahmoud as a hero, Qasimi said: People started hitting him hard and Mohamed took so many punches because he was protecting the guy until the police arrived.

Qasimi blamed Islamophobia for the attack, saying: This guy was extreme right wing, trying to kill Muslims because they are Muslims. This is a clear hate crime. We ask the government to do more to protect us Muslims.

He said: Weve been in the area for the past 40 years and we havent seen anything like this happen.

READ MORE: Muslim girl killed after leaving mosque in Virginia

Other British Muslim leaders also echoed Qasimis sense of shock and call for government action.

Mohamed Kozbar, the chairman of the Finsbury Park mosque, said his community was shaken by the attack because this area is very peaceful. It is diverse, multicultural, and people live together without any issues.

Mohamed Shafiq, who heads the Ramadhan Foundation, described the attack as a hate crime, and said inflammatory rhetoric by some politicians and commentators was to blame.

The rhetoric of far-right extremists and commentators in the media needs to be addressed, he told Al Jazeera.

The rampant Islamophobia that we see time and again has to be called out for what it is. Tonight is a consequence of that.
The University of Virginia student, who was held for over 17 months, was medically evacuated from North Korea last week.

Otto Warmbier, an American college student who was recently released in a coma from 17 months of detention in North Korea, has died, according to his family.

Warmbier, 22, who was arrested in North Korea while visiting as a tourist, had been described by doctors who examined him last week as having suffered extensive brain damage that left him in a state of unresponsive wakefulness.

Warmbiers relatives announced his death on Monday in a statement released by UC Health Systems, saying, It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20pm.

The family thanked the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for treating him, but said, Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today.

They said they were choosing to focus on the time they were given with their warm, engaging, brilliant son instead of focusing on what they had lost.

US President Donald Trump offered condolences to the Warmbier family and denounced North Korea as a brutal regime with no respect for basic human decency.

Warmbier, a University of Virginia student, was sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labour in North Korea, convicted of subversion after he tearfully confessed he had tried to steal a propaganda banner.

Doctors said he returned with severe brain damage, but it was not clear what caused it.

Parents Fred and Cindy Warmbier told The Associated Press news agency in a statement the day of his release that they wanted the world to know how we and our son have been brutalised and terrorised by the pariah regime  and expressed relief he had been returned to finally be with people who love him.

Ohios US senators sharply criticised North Korea soon after his release.

Republican Senator Rob Portman of the Cincinnati area said North Korea should be universally condemned for its abhorrent behaviour.

Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown of Cleveland said the countrys despicable actions  must be condemned.

Travel ban?

Three Americans remain held in North Korea.

Washington accuses Pyongyang of using such detainees as political pawns. Yet, North Korea alleges that the US and South Korea are sending spies to overthrow its government.

Al Jazeeras Mike Hanna, reporting from Washington, DC, said that Warmbiers death could increase pressure on US authorities to prohibit Americans from visiting North Korea.

At present, the State Department does not forbid US citizens from travelling to North Korea  theres a strong advisory against it, but, legally, citizens are able to go there, he said.

However, questions are now going to be asked of the State Department whether its not time  given this most recent death and the fact that a number of other Americans are being held as detainees in North Korea  that it needs to consider imposing a formal ban on US travel to the region.
HRWs Lewis Mudge says a lot more still needs to be done after truce deal signed by CAR government and rebel groups.

The government of the Central African Republic (CAR) has struck a peace deal with most of the countrys armed groups in a bid to end a long-running conflict that has killed thousands of people.

The immediate ceasefire agreement entails political representation for the rebel groups, including the Muslim Seleka and Christian anti-Balaka militias, in return for an end to attacks and blockades.

The deal, which was signed in Italy on Monday, was hailed as a significant development amid growing concerns following a recent escalation in inter-religious and inter-communal violence.

READ MORE: CAR church shelters Muslims fleeing Anti-Balaka

Yet, it was also welcomed with cautiousness, as a number of similar accords signed over the past few years have failed to bring an end to a conflict that was recently called the worlds most neglected displacement crisis.

So, will this time be any different?

Al Jazeera spoke to Lewis Mudge, a researcher in the Africa Division at Human Rights Watch, about the latest agreement, how far it goes and whether the truce will last.

Al Jazeera: What does the deal actually mean for the conflict and accountability, given that similar treaties have been signed in the past?

Lewis Mudge: This is coming after other failed peace accords or agreements. There was Brazzaville in 2014, Nairobi in 2015 and parts of the Bangui Forum in 2015 which failed.

OPINION: Jan Egeland  We cannot let down the CAR again

The real work begins now in getting these groups to cease attacks on civilians. The accord is signed at a time when violence is on the increase in the east of the country and the civilian population is desperate for the violence to stop.





Al Jazeera: What about sections of the anti-Balaka and self defence groups still at large all over the country without central leadership? Will they put down their weapons too?

Mudge: This is a fundamental question: do the leaders of these armed groups exert sufficient control over their men to get them to stand down?

Some groups may, but others wont. Some of the former Seleka groups have fought hard to control territory. I would be surprised if they were to give that up.

It must be pointed out that this document is general and refers to a roadmap that will followed by a monitoring committee to implement an ambitious agenda, so there is still a lot of work to be done.

Al Jazeera: The CAR seems to be at the cusp of a new emergency. Does this new document calling for an immediate ceasefire change that?

Mudge: I think its also important to point out that the deal proposes a Truth and Reconciliation Commission with a 12-month mandate.

Truth telling can be an important contribution to promoting as much of a sense of accountability and healing as possible.

At the same time, truth telling and reconciliation measures cannot be a substitute for fair, credible trials for the gravest crimes.

READ MORE: Tension high among CAR civilians as violence surges

Prosecutions for the worst crimes committed in the CAR are essential to break long-standing impunity in the country, and are mandated by international law.

Prosecutions also engendered strong support at the Bangui Forum in 2015. Human Rights Watch has documented war crimes and possible crimes against humanity by Seleka, anti-Balaka and other groups.

A hybrid national court called the Special Criminal Court, with national and international judges and prosecutors, has been created to address these crimes and remains the best chance to break these cycles of impunity.
Akbar Al Baker urges US President Donald Trump to intervene in the dispute and help end GCC blockade.

The top executive of Qatar Airways has warned that the blockade imposed on his country by neighbouring Gulf countries will leave a lasting wound.

Speaking on Monday at the Paris Air Show, Akbar Al Baker told The Associated Press news agency: People will not forget.





Al Baker said he expects US President Donald Trump will intervene to make sure that this blockade is lifted soonestespecially since he knows that we are part of his alliance against terrorism.

Earlier he had told Al Jazeera that he was very disappointed in the leadership of the United States.

He called the blockade illegal and said customers are returning to Qatar Airways and again using Qatar as an aviation hub after an initial hit to business.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar this month and blocked air, sea and land traffic with Qatar over its alleged support for Islamist groups and ties with Iran.

In a sign that the dispute is not cooling off, Anwar Gargash, UAEs state minister for foreign affairs, warned earlier on Monday that Qatars isolation could last years.

In a separate interview with Reuters news agency, Baker also said the boycott will not halt his companys growth or plans to accept delivery of new aircraft.

There has been monetary impact, Baker said in an interview onboard one of Qatar Airways 777 jets.

We have had a lot of cancellations, especially to the four countries that did this illegal blockade, but we have found new markets and this is our growth strategy, he said, adding Qatar was not the only country affected by the crisis.

Ill-thought and ill-advised

All these countries have families on either side of the borders, they have relatives, children, investments. Eventually, people will realise that the move they have done against my country was ill-thought out and ill-advised and that life has to come back to normal, he said.

Recently Qatar Airways launched an ad entitled No Borders, Only Horizons, criticising the ban.

Qatar is talking with the United Nations aviation agency, ICAO, about the airspace rights dispute, and Al Baker said he was disappointed with their actions thus far.

I dont think they have moved enough, I dont think they have taken this matter very seriously, he said.

He said Qatar Airways had plenty of growth opportunities elsewhere, citing new routes opening this month to Dublin, Skopje and Sarajevo as examples.

We are not going to defer any of our aircraft  We are continuing our aircraft deliveries at the same pace as we are contractually obligated to do, he said, adding Qatar was in talks to add more freighter capacity.





Al Baker said Qatar Airways still wanted to buy a stake in Italian carrier Meridiana, though there were a few things to iron out.

However, Qatar is not interested in struggling carrier Alitalia, which is in the process of seeking a buyer.

We are not interested to look at the books because I know how it has been left behind by one of the airlines that was too keen to relaunch it and failed, he said.

Separately, Qatar plans to set up a full-service Indian carrier to fly domestic routes with around 100 narrowbody planes after the country opened up the airline industry to foreign investors.

Al Baker said an application would be made for an operating licence soon, without giving a more precise timeframe.
Qatari FM says Gulf states have to lift blockade before Doha takes part in any talks on ending Gulf diplomatic crisis.

Qatar will not negotiate with Arab states that have cut economic and travel ties with it unless they reverse their measures and lift a blockade against it, its foreign minister has said.

Qatar is under blockade, there is no negotiation. They have to lift the blockade to start negotiations, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told reporters on Monday, ruling out discussions over Qatars internal affairs, including the fate of the Doha-based Al Jazeera Media Network.

Until now we didnt see any progress about lifting the blockade, which is the precondition for anything to move forward, he added.

Speaking from the capital, Doha, the minister said Qatar had still not received any demands from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, who severed relations with two weeks ago, triggering the worst Gulf Arab crisis in years.

READ MORE: Anwar Gargash  Qatars isolation may last years

Anything that relates to the affairs of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council is subject to negotiation, he said, referring to the body comprising Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.

Anything not related to them is not subject to negotiation. No one has the right to interfere in my affairs. Al Jazeera is Qatars affairs, Qatari foreign policy on regional issues is Qatars affairs. And we are not going to negotiate on our own affairs, he said.

The minister said Kuwaits ruler was the sole mediator in the crisis and that he was waiting for specific demands from Gulf states in order to take resolution efforts forward.

We cannot just have (vague) demands such as the Qataris know what we want from them, they have to stop this or that, they have to be monitored by a foreign monitoring mechanism.'

The crisis hit civilian travel and some food imports, ratcheted up tensions in the Gulf and sowed confusion among businesses. However, it has not affected energy exports from Qatar, the worlds biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

READ MORE: Rights body highlights human cost of Qatar blockade

The minister said Qatar would rely on other states if the boycott continued, including Saudi Arabias regional rival, Iran.

We have a backup plan which depends mainly on Turkey, Kuwait and Oman, he said.

Iran has facilitated for us the sky passages for our aviation and we are cooperating with all countries that can ensure supplies for Qatar.
Foreign institutions from Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain have about $18bn of deposits in Qatari banks.

Qatars government has said it is prepared to support local banks if foreign institutions withdraw deposits from them because of an economic boycott against Doha, the chief executive of the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) said.

Yousef al-Jaida said institutions from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, which broke off diplomatic and transport ties with Qatar on June 5, had about $18bn of deposits in Qatari banks that would mature in two months.

Jaida made the statement even as he assured those foreign institutions in Doha that the government does not plan to take any action against them, despite the blockade.

WATCH: Rights body highlights human cost of Qatar blockade

If necessary, the Qatari government will step in to cover those funds if they are withdrawn, and other banks in the QFC are still providing short-term US dollar deposits to Qatars banking sector, he told reporters.

Whether the blockade countries make a decision on retracting those deposits is yet to be seen. Those mature in a couple of months, so theres no impact as of yet. But this is a measure and a point that we are paying close attention to.

Weve been in a worse crisis in 2008, a financial crisis not a political crisis, and the government was able to step in and buy out the default portfolios of loans and real estate at that time. If a need arises, the government can easily step in and enforce similar measures.

$2bn in contracts affected

The QFC licences exempt foreign companies from the Gulf states local ownership laws.

The centre has its own legal, regulatory, tax and business infrastructure, allowing for 100 percent foreign ownership and full repatriation of profits.

Jaida also said that the government does not plan to take any action against those foreign companies.





We do not intend to take any measures on any businesses in Qatar from the blockade countries. We have Saudi and Bahraini banks in the QFC, he said.

It remains business as usual, and we intend to keep it that way. There are five companies at the QFC from Saudi and Bahrain.

However, Jaida said countries imposing the sanctions had restricted some of their companies from doing business in Qatar, which was affecting about $2bn of these companies contracts in areas such as construction, professional services and export of materials. He did not give details.

The UAE central bank has asked banks to apply enhanced customer due diligence when dealing with six Qatari banks, making the UAE institutions reluctant to do fresh deals.

Guidance from the Saudi and Bahraini central banks has also deterred new business with Qatar, bankers told Reuters.
Report released ahead of World Refugee Day shows a jump of 300,000 people uprooted over the past year.

A record 65.6 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced from their homes owing to conflict or persecution by the end of 2016, the United Nations said.

The record number includes 22.5 million refugees, 40.3 million internally displaced people and 2.8 million asylum seekers.

The number marks a jump of 300,000 from the end of 2015, according to a new report released by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Monday.

This is the highest figure since we started recording these figures, UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi told reporters ahead of the report launch.

By any measure, this is an unacceptable number, and it speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, he said.

READ MORE: Staggering increase in number of lone child refugees

The figures released ahead of World Refugee Day on Tuesday showed that 10.3 million of the worlds displaced people fled their homes last year alone, including 3.4 million who crossed international borders to become refugees.





This equates to one person becoming displaced every three seconds  less than the time it takes to read this sentence, UNHCR pointed out in a statement.

At the end of 2016, there were about 40.3 million internally displaced people in the world, down slightly from 40.8 million a year earlier, with Syria, Iraq and Colombia accounting for the greatest numbers.

Another 22.5 million people  half of them children  were registered as refugees last year, the UNHCR report showed, pointing out that this is the highest level ever recorded.

Syrians continued to be the largest forcibly displaced population, with 12 million people at the end of 2016.

Syrias six-year conflict alone has sent more than 5.5 million people seeking safety in other countries, including 825,000 last year alone, accounting for the worlds largest group of refugees.

READ MORE: Syrias civil war explained from the beginning

Along with the 6.3 million Syrians displaced inside the country, these numbers show that nearly two thirds of all Syrians have been forced from their homes, the report said.

The Syrian conflict, which has killed more than 320,000 people, is becoming a forgotten crisis, he warned.

The UN refugee chief also voiced alarm over the rapidly deteriorating situation in South Sudan, which he said was currently the worlds fastest growing refugee crisis and displacement crisis.





South Sudans civil war, which began in December 2013, has left tens of thousands dead and forced a total of 3.7 million people from their homes  nearly a third of the population.

Overall, the refugee population from the worlds youngest country swelled 85 percent last year to reach 1.4 million by the end of 2016, the UNHCR report showed.

Besides Syria and South Sudan, Mondays report also pointed to large-scale displacement in Afghanistan, Iraq and Sudan.

And nearly 70 years after Palestinians first fled todays Israel, some 5.3 million Palestinians are currently living as refugees  the highest level ever recorded, UNHCR said.

The report showed despite huge focus on Europes refugee crisis, it is the poorer countries that host most of the worlds refugees.

For the third consecutive year, Turkey hosted the largest number of refugees worldwide, with 2.9 million people.

It was followed by Pakistan (1.4 million), Lebanon (1 million), Iran (979,400), Uganda (940,800), and Ethiopia (791,600).
Moscow says it will target US coalition aircraft in the west of Syrias Euphrates River after US downed a Syrian jet.

Russia has said that it will treat all US-led coalition aircraft to the west of the Euphrates River in Syria as targets and halted an incident-prevention hotline with Washington after US forces downed a Syrian warplane.

Moscow has only once before suspended the hotline, which was established in October 2015 to prevent conflict between the different forces operating in Syrian airspace.





Sundays downing of the jet and Russias response on Monday further complicate Syrias six-year war and come as the US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to remove the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group from its Syrian bastion, Raqqa.

Russias foreign ministry accused Washington of failing to use the hotline before downing the plane near Raqqa and called for a careful investigation by the US command into the incident.

Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as aerial targets by Russias air defences on and above ground, it warned.

Russias defence ministry condemned the downing of the jet in a separate statement, saying the latest incident, in addition to others, was a violation of international law.

As a result of the strike, the Syrian plane was destroyed. The Syrian pilot catapulted into an area controlled by Islamic State [of Iraq and the Levant] terrorists. His fate is unknown, the statement said.

Not much change on ground

Pavel Felgenhauer, a military analyst and columnist in Moscow, told Al Jazeera that the development was a dangerous escalation, but the sides did not want to take real action against each other.

Russias defence ministry does not say that they would target American planes with weapons. Moscow says they will just lock their radars on them, follow them but not really shoot, he said.

Felgenhauer added that this happened various times before the latest incident when US planes came close to Russian bases in Syria.

So, there is not much real change on the ground, he said.

RELATED: Fresh Syria talks set for July 10 in Astana

The Syrian jet was shot down on Sunday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling against ISIL with US support, in an area close to Raqqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7pm as it dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syrias north and east.
British police say now 79 feared dead as opposition mounts pressure on government to relocate residents.

The number of people believed to have died from a fire that set ablaze Grenfell Tower in west London last week has risen to 79 and could increase, UK police say.

Five people who were reported missing have also been found safe and well, London Police Commander Stuart Cundy confimed on Monday, as Britain held a minutes silence for the victims.

He also said only five people have been formally identified so far by police, after officers earlier warned that some may never be identified owing to the condition of the remains.

UK police had earlier put the toll at 58 presumed dead.

Theresa May, UK prime minister, is facing increasing pressure to take action after the 24-storey apartment building went up in flames on Wednesday.

READ MORE: Grenfell fire  Residents demand justice

May and her ministers have said they will do all they can to help those left homeless after the blaze and make sure other high-rise buildings, usually home to poorer people, are checked and safe.

May, criticised for keeping her distance from angry residents during her visit to the charred remains of the apartment building, said on Saturday that the response to the disaster had been not good enough.

She said more help will be sent to the scene to help survivors cope and find alternative housing.





Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britains main opposition Labour Party, called on the government to take over empty buildings to house the hundreds of residents displaced in the fire.

Corbyn said on Sunday that the government has the power to take over empty apartments and offer them to the hundreds of Grenfell Tower residents left homeless by Wednesdays fire.

Opposition politicians also say the government ignored recommendations from a 2013 review after another London fire killed six people.

The cause of Wednesdays blaze is still under investigation, but anger has mounted in the community amid reports that exterior panelling may have helped to fan the flames.

If something needs to be done to make buildings safe, it will be done, Philip Hammond, UK finance minister, told the BBC on Sunday.

Lets get the technical advice properly evaluated by a public inquiry and then lets decide how to go forward.

May has announced a fast-tracked public inquiry into the fire and said on Sunday that every household affected by the blaze would receive a minimum payment of 5,500 ($7,000) from a 5m emergency fund.
At least one man dead and 10 others injured after man runs over worshippers near Finsbury Park mosque, police say.

At least one person has died and 10 others have been injured after a vehicle ran over pedestrians close to two mosques in a north London neighbourhood, UK police have said.

The 48-year-old driver of the van, who was identified as Darren Osborne, was detained by bystanders and later arrested by police after the incident in Finsbury Park.

The UKs Counter Terrorism Command is investigating the attack, which occurred just after midnight on Monday.

Witnesses said the van veered off the road into worshippers leaving Ramadan prayers on Seven Sisters Road, running over several people before coming to a halt.

READ MORE: Muslims targeted in attack near Finsbury Park mosque

Police were called just after 0020hrs [23:20 GMT]  to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians, they said in a statement, calling the incident major.

Neil Basu, the Metropolitan Polices deputy assistant commissioner, said the attack unfolded while a man was already receiving first aid near the mosque.

Sadly that man has died, Basu said.

It is too early to state if his death was a result of this attack.

Eight of the injured were taken to hospitals and the rest were treated at the scene, police said, adding that the driver of the van had also been taken to hospital. Two of the victims were severely injured, police said.

At the time of the attack, several hundred worshippers were on the streets in the area after attending prayers as part of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Theresa May, UK prime minister, described the attack as a sickening attempt to destroy liberties that unite Britain, such as freedom of worship.

Speaking on the steps of Downing Street, May said the attack was a reminder that terrorism, extremism, and hatred take many forms, and vowed to tackle all types of extremism, including Islamophobia.

This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country. We will not let this happen, May said.

I'm totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight. pic.twitter.com/1ffKijNs73  Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) June 19, 2017

Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of the opposition Labour Party, also commented on the incident on Twitter.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said the incident was an attack on common values.

Like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect, he said in a statement, referring to attacks in previous months.

The UK has seen a bombing of a concert in Manchester in May, a stabbing spree earlier this month in the London Bridge area and a March attack in which a man drove a car into crowds on Westminster Bridge.

Due to the nature of this incident, extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan, police said.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) said it had been informed that a van had run over worshippers as they left a mosque in Finsbury Park and called for extra security at mosques.

Harun Khan, secretary-general of the MCB, said that he was shocked and outraged to hear that a van had intentionally run over worshippers.

BREAKING: We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims. https://t.co/FSE5m3bFpo  MCB (@MuslimCouncil) June 19, 2017

During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship. It appears from witness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia, he said.

Al Jazeeras Ben Rayner, reporting from Finsbury Park, said a police line had blocked off the typically busy Seven Sisters Road as about 100 people gathered nearby.

There are two mosques in this Finsbury Park area  the Finsbury Park Mosque and another mosque just around the corner on Seven Sisters Road  and it appears that a number of people, worshippers, coming out of the mosque were badly injured, Rayner said.

We dont know exactly the motivation yet, he added, noting that Finsbury Park is well known as an area with a large Muslim population.

Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, said this was a serious incident, maybe a terrorist incident, which affects a lot of people in this part of London.

We are in the last 10 days of [the Muslim holy fasting month of] Ramadan and a lot of people come to the mosque to pray the late prayer, he told Al Jazeera.

These people who have been attacked were the people who just left the mosque  but we dont know whether they are all from the Muslim community  I assume that there are other casualties and victims who maybe are not even Muslim.

Local resident Hillary Briffa told Al Jazeera that the mood on the street is very agitated.

I reached the white van that had been pulled over and there was a man that had just been arrested and a lot of men had gathered around and shouting why would you do this?'
More than 130,000 people have been infected with cholera and almost 1,000 people have died since April, UN says.

The United Nations (UN) describes the unprecedented cholera outbreak in Yemen as the worlds worst humanitarian disaster.

The disease is killing at least one person almost every hour. The UN says the number of suspected cases of cholera continues to rise.

More than 130,000 people have fallen ill since the outbreak began in April. Almost 1,000 people have died, with women and children accounting for half of the numbers.

And that is on top of the devastating effects of the war of nearly three years between the government and Houthi rebels.

The Saudi-led coalition has closed the main airport and prevented many human rights workers from entering the country.

So, is the Saudi-imposed blockade complicating aid efforts?

Presenter: Jane Dutton

Guests:

Ibrahim Fraihat  Professor of Conflict Resolution at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies

Shabia Mantoo  Spokeswoman for the UNHCR in Yemen

Hussain Al Bukhaiti  Pro-Houthi activist
A Florida Highway Patrol trooper died Saturday night after being struck by a car in the median of Interstate 75.

Sgt. William Bishop, 52, was investigating a car crash that happened at about 6 p.m. on southbound I-75 near mile marker 403, about 7 miles north of Alachua, said Lieutenant Patrick Riordan, an FHP spokesperson.

While investigating the scene on foot with at least one other trooper, a second car crash at about 6:30 p.m. sent a vehicle straight at Bishop, Riordan said. Emergency medical personnel brought him to UF Health Shands Hospital, where the FHP veteran of 30 years was pronounced dead at about 8:30 p.m.

Unfortunately, distracted driving, or rubbernecking, kills troopers on roadways more than it should, Riordan said. In his 32 years of law enforcement, he said he can recall about eight troopers who were killed from head-on collisions on the highway while outside their patrol cars.

Driving is an active process, he said. It goes back to some good old-fashioned basics  be aware of whats happening outside your vehicle.

Bishop leaves behind a family  his wife and adult son. As is protocol with families of fallen servicemen, Riordan said, officers will remain with them to offer assistance and support through Bishops funeral and service arrangements, which will be planned starting Monday, after Fathers Day.

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We care for the family to the best of our ability, he said.
During President Trump's recent visit to Europe, much was made of the fact that in a speech before NATO leaders, he did not explicitly affirm America's commitment to NATO's Article V. This put much of European opinion on edge and was one of the things that prompted German Chancellor Merkel to brazenly hint that Europe might have to 'go it alone.'

Everyone knows about Article V, right? It is repeated ad infinitum in press releases and news stories about NATO. "An attack on one member state is an attack on all." The implication here is if, say, Russia overtly attacked even one of the tiny Baltic or other far off front-line states, the U.S. would respond as if Florida was invaded, and we'd be in a no-nonsense war with the Great Bear of the East.

I don't think so. Like so many things in life, the actual understanding of Article V requires drilling down deeper into the details of the treaty. Here is the relevant part of Article V:

The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defense recognized by Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area.

The Parties agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all and consequently they agree that, if such an armed attack occurs, each of them, in exercise of the right of individual or collective self-defense recognized by Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area.

Bruce Fein, in the Washington Times , has dissected this for us.

He notes that Article 11 of the NATO treaty clarifies that any use of armed force by NATO parties in carrying out Article V must be in accord with their respective constitutional processes.

As Mr. Fein writes,

"For the United States, that means Congress must enact a declaration of war before the President may employ the armed forces to defend a NATO Member from external aggression. Article 5 is not and could not be made to be self-executing even by amending NATO . The United States Supreme Court held in Reid v. Covert (1956) that treaties are subordinate to the Constitution. The Declare War Clause may not be circumvented by any treaty whatsoever."

This means that taken as a whole and contrary to the popular understanding, the NATO treaty does not require the U.S. to automatically commence war if a member country is attacked. Congressional approval -- both Senate the House of Representatives -- would be needed.

To which I'll add that the verbiage in Article V itself gives tremendous wiggle room to avoid being dragged into a full-fledged war. To repeat Article V, it says NATO member states "will assist the Party or Parties so attacked by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force, to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area."

The action "deemed necessary" can be almost anything and is something that is left up to the discretion of each member state. And 'will assist' should not be construed to mean that the U.S. will carry the bulk of the burden of the military action as was done in WWII and the Cold War. Consider this for example. The frontline NATO states are in Europe. Why then doesn't the wealthy European powerhouses of Germany and France take the lead in defending them by stationing a serious military presence of their own there instead of expecting distant America to do it?

So that brings us to how the NATO treaty is likely to be interpreted. It should be obvious that it makes a world of difference if Donald Trump, Rand Paul, or Ted Cruz is president as opposed to a globalist in the mold of John McCain, Hillary Clinton or any of the rest of the run-of-the-mill establishment politicians eyeing the high office. It is likely that the former group would be constrained in the call to war and would likely comply with the Constitution by seeking a formal congressional declaration. As for Sen. McCain and his fellow globalists, globalists, many of them can be expected to jump at any pretext to march off go to war.

To many observers, it seems that the likelihood of Russia commencing outright hostilities in Europe is extremely low, the Ukraine notwithstanding. So maybe it's best to follow the old adage that the best time to fix a leaky roof is not when it's raining but when the sun is shining. This means we should have a national discussion clarifying our commitment to NATO.

Both as a candidate and now as president, Donald Trump has started the ball rolling. But more needs to follow. For example, some of the questions for the American people to decide on include: Is it really in America's interest to continue to carry over 70 percent of the financial burden of NATO? Is our national security truly enhanced by promising our full military support to defend states like Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Lithuania, Montenegro and the like? Are we really serious about defending Islamic Turkey and if so, why? Is it wise to station U.S. troops in frontline NATO states whose presence serve more as a trip wire than anything else?
The Washington D.C. nomenklatura advanced forward last week with its slow-moving coup detat against Americas constitutionally elected President.

But even after the federal bureaucracys further progress toward undoing the 2016 election, I confess to a faint hope that Special Counsel Robert Swan Mueller III -- supposed embodiment of upper class, non-partisan, lawyerly virtue -- might actually conduct a fair, focused and swift inquiry into the matter assigned him.

In the end, though, the sensible old lawyers voice in my head whispers that this hope is more pipedream than prediction of events.

Heres the latest state of affairs, no doubt soon to be out of date:

After staffing up during the week preceding last with heavy Democrat contributing lawyers of dubious objectivity, last week Mr. Mueller appeared to abandon, or at least heavily downgrade, the alleged raison detre for his office -- investigating the Russia collusion fantasy. Now, per the Washington Post -- always eager to provide a stage for someone leaking ill about the President -- Mr. Mueller will focus on whether the President obstructed justice and on the business dealings of the Presidents close advisor and son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

So already, almost before his army of lawyers has swung into battle, the Special Counsels inquiry has metastasized from its original focus -- sleuthing out whether President Trump or his campaign colluded with the Russian government during the election -- into entirely new subjects.

Keep in mind the language of Mr. Muellers assignment, as articulated on May 17 by Rod Rosenstein: To investigate:

any links and/or coordination between Russian government and individuals associated with the campaign of President Donald Trump, and any matters that arose or may arise directly from that investigation.

The new subjects of Muellers inquiry are not only remote from that recent but apparently forgotten assignment, but they begin to sketch the outline of a lawyer who is stocking up on matters of inquiry for a long-haul investigation.

In sum, as each week passed following Mr. Muellers May 17 appointment, the man has behaved less like an independent counsel and more like the designated agent for Americas Trump-despising Washington-New York would-be rulers -- like someone who knows he is charged with providing a colorable legal predicate for a long-ago decision by Americas elites to destroy the President and prevent him from serving out the term he was accorded by Americas electorate and Constitution.

As of, today, Monday June 19, 2017, here is where matters stand for the President of the United States:

Though constitutionally and decisively elected to office, President Trump must carry out his duties -- that include sole responsibility for protecting the American homeland in a world where North Korea fires missiles every month and Islamic fanatics commit atrocities on a near daily basis -- while a former FBI Director, unrestrained by budget, personnel, duration of authority, or substantive area of inquiry, deliberately harasses, hounds, and distracts him and his appointed officials while attempting to find something -- after last week, apparently anything -- that could be twisted into a warrant for the Presidents impeachment and removal from office.

Mr. Mueller could at least partially rebut the growing belief that he is the agent of those who despise the President, his agenda, and his supporters, by making a clear public statement that reaffirms his commitment to the inquiry he was assigned, and to its speedy completion. But without such a prompt reaffirmation -- directly from Mr. Mueller -- the belief will harden and become widespread among those who elected President Trump that Mr. Mueller is nothing but the Washington-New York corridors designated legal hit man. Were that to occur, the Special Counsels findings and recommendations would have no legitimacy; and were Congress to act adverse to the President on them, doing so would plunge the nation into chaos.

How did the American Republic come to this ridiculously self-destructive pass?

In brief summary:

Desperate to deflect blame for his failed efforts after the 2016 election, Clinton campaign Chair John Podesta, risibly and with neither specificity nor evidence, accused President-elect Trump of colluding with the Russian government to bring about Trumps election.

From the time of Podestas tirade right up through today not a shred of evidence has emerged to support the claim of Russian collusion. This gaping void is all the more damning for the Russia collusion fantasists, given that Congress has investigated the claim for at least six months and the FBI for over nine months.

Given the ubiquitous atmosphere of anti-Trump leaking in Washington, if any such evidence had been discovered, by Congress or by the FBI, its a certainty that by now it would have been leaked and be widely known

A side question: How many FBI agents spent how much time over the last nine months on this groundless smear, and how many potential Islamic terrorists could those agents have identified and neutralized if they had devoted their energies and skills to that rather more pressing concern? Just wondering.

So, in the total evidentiary vacuum for the Russia collusion allegation, how did America move from John Podestas non-specific and unsupported claim of such collusion, to Robert Muellers appointment to investigate that claim?

Enter, stage left, Americas corporate media.

On a daily basis since the election, the New York Times and Washington Post, followed in lock step by all the corporate television news networks, have breathlessly written and talked about Trumps alleged Russia collusion, on page one or on the nightly news --and without any specificity as to what allegedly was done, who the alleged allegers are, or evidence to support the charge.

Our corporate medias performance was an amazing feat of Journalism, keeping the Russia collusion allegation on page one, and on the nightly news, every day without letup, all the months since the election -- always unsourced as to who was alleging, unspecified as to the conduct alleged, and, of course, without identifying a shred of proof.

But that kind of news story is not evidence, a bright little child might observe.

Maybe not to you kid, but it was good enough for Rod Rosenstein.

Because repeated news stories in the corporate media about allegations by unnamed persons  about unspecified conduct  for which there was no evidence, were all Rosenstein had to justify appointing a Special Counsel.

Special Counsel Mueller should not have been appointed at all.

Even in a country whose legal system has been as debased by politics as ours, its simple prosecutorial ethics that a massive and in itself damaging investigation into an allegation should be turned loose only when the charges are specific and after at least some evidentiary cause to believe they are true has been adduced.

Both specificity and evidence were completely absent at the time of the Rosenstein appointment.

Now that Mr. Mueller has been improvidently appointed, he has a slender chance to save his own reputation for professional integrity, and the nation from further political disintegration -- by sticking to his assignment and rapidly and fairly concluding his work.

We will soon learn whether he has any interest in such an approach to his duties.

Jared Peterson is a graduate of the Harvard Law School and has been a practicing attorney in California for over forty years.
"Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many."

That's a compelling verse  call it a proverb  from the New Testament. It's a great admonition for all of us. It's one the left will pay for not knowing.

During the early days of the Clinton impeachment, then-"journalist" George Stephanopoulos gave an insider threat to the world, clearly from the Clintons. He said that if Republicans continued their attempts against them, the earth would be scorched. If they went down, everyone else would, too.

Here is the exchange, from 1998.

Sam Donaldson: "Are you suggesting for a moment that what they're beginning to say is that if you investigate this too much, we'll put all your dirty linen right on the table? Every member of the Senate? Every member of the press corps?"

George Stephanopoulos: "Absolutely. The president said he would never resign, and I think some around him are willing to take everybody down with him."

It is now safe to say the Democrats have followed that scorched earth promise, that they now fully embrace the Clinton bitterness and corruption. It's beyond anything we have witnessed.

Take a look around. This absurd quest to dehumanize Trump, to form narrative after narrative fabricated on lies to try to destroy him, to destroy his ability to govern, to make him into a criminal, comes from the bitter wells of the Clintons. After all, he ended Hillary's (and Bill's) dream of regaining the Clintons' glory. Make no mistake: the Clintons and their team are ravaging everything in a concerted effort to punish anything or anyone that took them down. Trump is the symbol, but anyone moderate, or right of center, is now the target. We, all of us on the right, are the target as well. Just like in Stephy's quote.

Look at the poisoned fruit they have grown. Any celebrity that dared even hint to give Trump a chance was destroyed by the liberal Twitter-verse, having to grovel at the feet of the left. Multiple episodes of violence have erupted against non-leftist speakers on campus. Any attempt by any congressional Democrats to help Trump is seen as treason to the cause, provoking virtually all of their party members to ever angrier statements and over-the-top efforts to bring Trump down. Kathy Griffin feigns cutting off the head of Trump as a comedy act, and it took 24 whole hours (rather than minutes) to fire her. Violence from the left is condoned and encouraged, and no Democrat adult has come against it until today.

That play in New York that daily shows Trump being stabbed was considered brilliant and wonderful by CNN and the other leftist mouthpieces just days ago. A young Democrat stalwart has risked, and ruined, her life in order to leak information she thought would hurt Trump. Leftist "comedians" have fouled their own nests with inane nastiness. The Democrat leaders in congress have lied for months; the whole time, they knew there was no evidence of Trump-Russia collusion, that Trump wasn't being investigated. Yet they "persisted."

And now one of their crazies has been riled to insane political violence, actually shooting a Republican congressman. If not for armed guards, many more might have been hurt or even killed. If the left can't stop Trump, impeach Trump, or make him grovel, its anger will seek other targets vaguely near him. Scorched earth.

Make no mistake: looking at what has been incited, few on the left would mind one bit if Trump was assassinated. After all, if he's inhuman and Hitlerian, why shouldn't they?

Congratulations, Clintons: you have successfully devastated this country, or at least your half of it. Congratulations to the Democratic Party  you followed them into the fires of Hell. Congratulations, MSNBCCNNABCNBCCBSNewYorkTimesWashingtonPost  your ratings and new riches are soaked in blood. Congratulations to you leftist voters  you chose to throw in with them, allowing hatred to overwhelm you, bitterness to fester into what occurred.

So where were the adults in the Democratic Party? Gone, except for one. Alan Dershowitz really tried telling the truth on the issue of impeachment, but none of the leftist journalists wanted to listen. They were too busy outraging their audience about Trump-Russia. Trump traitor. Trump/Hitler. Trump bad. Really? The grand nothing they've been reporting is now exposed and slowly twisting in the wind. It's done.

Kindly recall the national media blaming Sarah Palin for the shooting of Gabby Giffords, with no evidence. Recall the Clinton-media complex trying to blame Rush Limbaugh for the Oklahoma City bombing. So many examples of them wrongfully accusing the right of fomenting violence. Most of us on the right remember being tarred and feathered with no evidence, but this shooting is much more real as an example of hate speech whipping up a crime. The shooter was clearly a true leftist believer, steeped in the propaganda of MSNBC, CNN, and the entire leftist crazy worldview. We shouldn't let them forget, and you can tell they know that from their coverage.

Now, we all know of media double standards, but there is an absurdity in what we've witnessed since the 2016 defeat of the Clinton machine. And it was a machine. It burned through more than a billion dollars, and now it faces disgrace for the left's loss. Scorched earth was the remedy, and here we are.

The sheer amount of hatred that has been piled on Trump, his associates, and his voters is unequaled in our times. The left has followed the lead of the Clinton machine in wanting blood, and now it has blood. There are myriad articles discussing how close to civil war we might be, and this climate fomented by the leftist hate machine is close to lighting that fuse.

For all the grandstanding in the past by the left about "hate speech," they are the ones who have ratcheted hatred up to the brink of civil war. They are the ones who have irrationally stoked this flame. They, and they alone, are the responsible parties. They are the ones with blood on their hands.

I am not advocating civil war. Not at all. Even though the left would lose in a disgraceful rout, it's not something anyone should want.

More important, I think today marks the day the civil war failed on the left. Even though the media won't report the truth about leftist hate fomenting this latest shooting, the mask came off. The country knows. When Bernie Sanders came out and finally said what he should have been saying every week since the election, that the violence has to stop, the tide turned. When the Democrat congresscritters staged their photo-op as if they were praying for "the matter," you know the tide turned. When you see Democrat officials, the very same ones who have been calling for resistance, en masse call for unity, you know that the jig is up for them. Let's not let them forget. They need to be held accountable.

In spite of the lunatic left winning the Democrat soul, in spite of the calls on their part to kill more Republicans (which calls they are still making), they have now lost. Their bloodlust has backfired. The Democratic Party is in shambles, as demonstrated by the fact that only one adult stood up to this crowd-shaming nonsensical hate-fest of the past eight months. They have no message but the bitter rage of the Clinton machine. The Democrat-media complex have disgraced themselves during this time by following the Clinton lead in scorching the earth. They are beginning a downward spiral of self-recrimination, rage, and sputtering about narratives that no longer work. They face a deep wilderness in their cocooned safe spaces. Their scorched earth tactics have turned on them, burning only themselves, brought on by themselves. The tide has turned.

Sure, this will take time. Faster would be better, and it will be nasty, because some of them won't retreat. But it's clear: their overplayed hand is done. The handwriting is on the wall, and they now know it.

One last thing: There is not a more deserving group to have failed than the Clinton machine.
If Shakespeare were alive today, he would instantly recognize the New York Times and its treasonous ilk, because Shakespeare feared nothing more than treason and civil war -- which is exactly what happened to the Roman Empire after the plotters stabbed Julius Caesar to death in the Forum.

In our Civil War, a war fought about the Constitution and freedom, 600,000 people died; it was far and away our worst war, and today's demagogues are still trying to twist the reality of that war to sucker all the airheads of the left.

In American history it was the Democrats, of course, who fanatically supported African-American slavery, and who stirred up rebellion against the constitutionally elected president, one Abraham Lincoln, an outsider to the whispering cliques of DC. Lincoln was fiercely hated by selfish Deep Government of the time.

It was also the Democrats who started the Ku Klux Klan, to terrorize African-Americans, and to stir up treason by lynch mob. More recently it was Senator Robert (Sheets) Byrd who started his political career as a segregationist KKK lynch mob leader, hating on blacks.

If it had been up to the establishment of Lincoln's day, African-American slavery would still be here. Instead, far too many inner city black people are still chained to welfare, endemic violence, broken families, and other liberal contrivances, all in Democrat-dominated inner cities.

Shakespeare served the Court of Queen Elizabeth, filled with power-hungry plotters like Jim ("Li'l Leaker") Comey and John Podesta, who started the Russia scam that now has the airheads of the media fulminating. In Elizabeth's Court the Russian rumor would have called been a Spanish plot, but that's the only difference.

We certainly have our share of Democrat demagogues ready to whip up ignorant mobs, including Obama's Jerry Wright and Al Sharpton (who whipped up a Harlem mob to burn down a Jewish-owned clothing store). The New York Times has been in close cahoots with Sharpton ever since.

The Bard might have had John Podesta in mind when he wrote:

Yon Cassia has a lean and hungry look... such men are dangerous.

Within 24 hours of Hillarys defeat Podesta had cooked up the Russia hacking story, suggesting that he may have set up the phony Russian plot before the election, to prepare a "stab in the back" legend for the Three Stooges, Jim Comey (FBI), John Brennan (CIA) and Jim Clapper (DNI), all swamp snakes of the worst kind. They rose during the Clinton-Obama years, so they are loyal to the Democrat left, not to the United States of America.

Shakespeare hated mobs, and the New York Times whips up mobs every day for breakfast.

But the Bard has Marc Anthony yelling at the mobs

"You sticks, you stones, you worse than worthless things!"

But it didn't do any good, any more than reasoning with the NYT does any good today.

The NYT is Holy of Holies of the fake news industry, as it has been ever since it covered up the criminal regimes of Hitler and Stalin in the 1930s.

A strong constitutional cxecutive --- a Donald Trump --- was the Founders answer to the long history of bloody civil war in human history, swarming with an endless series of blood-dripping knife plotters.

To Shakespeare, the murder of Julius Caesar was a great catastrophe, a trigger for the long and bloody civil war that followed, splitting the Roman armies under Marc Anthony and Brutus. That's what the play is about.

As for Brutus, today's Brutus is Robert Mueller, who presents himself as "an honorable man" but is anything but that. That's the point of Marc Anthony's sarcastic speech, repeating the phrase "But Brutus is an honorable man," when in fact Brutus struck the dagger blow that convinced Julius Caesar to finally give up. That is our "honorable" Special Prosecutor, our Witch Hunter General.

We can't expect the functional illiterates of the NYT to understand that, of course. For them, Shakespeare is just another big name, like Macy's or Nordstrom's. For people who actually read Shakespeare, he is full of ominous warnings about sedition and treachery in politics and war, which have not changed one little bit.

The New York Times, which is paying for the enactment of murder of the duly elected President of the United States, is filled with hotheads of the Stalinist persuasion, people who are not liberals at all, but believers in violence and arbitrary power over the voters of the United States. Yes, they have their limos, just as the Soviet Apparat had its, but they are run by a deep wish for war and violence, because normal people simply won't buckle under to their central commands. They are psychological persecutors just like the Spanish Inquisition, because contrary to all the facts they believe they are the Good People, who must punish the Evil Little People for their own good. That leftist conviction resulted in 100 million dead innocents in the last century, but in the nature of fanatics, actual evidence means nothing.

No power is more arbitrary and unchecked than that of unelected Washington bureaucrats, nominally subordinates of the Chief Executive, who are now in open rebellion against him, ready to stab him to death.

The Founders would never in a million years support today's assassins, especially Jim Comey and Robert Mueller. The whole Special Prosecutor scam is in plain and obvious violation of the US Constitution, which was written to limit abuses of power. No wonder the Obamas of this world hate and despise the US Constitution.

Which is really what this fight is about. The left hates the Constitution, while conservatives revere its wisdom and strength. Donald Trump is not the biggest issue: The US Constitution is the real issue.

Today it looks like our fakest Native American, Senator Liz Warren of Massachusetts, is joining the hysterical mob by "warning" Trump that "nasty women have really had it with guys like you!

Senator Warren is not just a fake Native American, having made her phony Harvard Law career based on an affirmative action lie, she is also a phony Vladimir Ilyich Lenin, in her characteristic pose, leaning over that wooden lectern to harangue her imaginary Bolsheviks to go hang some more helpless peasants.

Warren is Hollywood's idea of Vladimir Lenin, and this whole charade is being staged as street theater.

Like his mentor Saul Alinsky, Barack Hussein Obama believes that what matters is not power, but the appearance of power. That is the plain purpose of the current street theater against the constitutionally elected President of the United States, our current successor to Abraham Lincoln, who was also an outsider, doing his level best to beat down the poisonous swamp snakes of DC.

William Shakespeare would be applauding Trump, because the alternative is too awful for words. Shakespeare believed in duly constituted authority to keep the peace in England. He was right then, and conservatives also support duly constituted authority. If the left wants to go back to Stalin, they will have to destroy the US Constitution to get there.
One of the great horrors of the novel 1984 was the thought police who punished people for having incorrect thoughts. Thats the sort of communist worldview that the vast majority of Americans reject.

Its dismaying that liberals have adapted communist tactics and implemented a new thought police in the guise of the judiciary. Liberal judges have decided that they can read peoples innermost thoughts. Thats the basis for both the 9th and 4th Circuit Courts declaring that Trumps temporary travel ban is unconstitutional.

Both courts agree that the executive order as written is constitutional. Both courts agree that if Hillary or Obama had issued the exact same order it would be constitutional. Both courts declare it to be unconstitutional because they claim to know what Trump was really thinking when he signed the orders.

Those two circuit courts are saying that they know that Trumps thoughts are not sufficiently pure and hence that disqualifies him from exercising his constitutional authority.

Essentially, liberals are declaring that federal judges are a thought police that has the authority to punish a President whose thoughts dont toe the line defined by the judges.

Earlier liberals realized that even judges who think they are god cant actually read peoples minds. Thats why the Supreme Court ruled that all a court should take into account when assessing the constitutionality of an executive order is what the order says.

That makes sense since if the government started acting outside of what an executive order said, by say banning all Muslims from entering the U.S., the court could take action against that activity. Hence theres no reason to ban an order that is itself constitutional.

Unfortunately, this latest power grab by liberal judges goes far beyond anything they have tried before. Essentially, the judges are saying that if they determine that a President, or presumably Congress, has ever expressed displeasure with any group for any reason they, the judges, can declare that the President, or Congress, can make no laws that the court doesnt approve of that impact that group.

For example we know that Obama disparaged Christians, who cling to their religion, and hence using this new principle of law the HHS mandate would be unconstitutional.

Of course the liberal judges would not rule the HHS mandate unconstitutional because they agree with it. Which points to the most troubling aspect of this new trend; the judges are saying that if the President disparages any group a judge likes, than the judge is entitled to take over the Presidents power, as defined in the Constitution, as it relates to that group.

This means, for example, that if Trump should decide to take women out of combat roles in the Army the courts could tell him he cant do that because hes spoken poorly of women in the past.

The courts actions are a gross violation of separation of powers. The Supreme Court has ruled many times that the Executive Branch is responsible for immigration and foreign policy. Yet these judges have declared that they can usurp the Executive Branchs powers if they decide that they dont like what the President is thinking. Clearly since the judges are the ones who decide what thoughts and policies are acceptable there is no limit to what authority the judges can steal.

Theres really no reason the courts cant extend this same reasoning to areas other than discrimination against a group. For example, the courts could conclude that Trump cant exit the Paris accords because hes expressed doubt about the reality of global warming err climate change and because the judges believe in climate change they know that Trumps thoughts are wrong.

This takes judicial tyranny to a whole new level. These two circuit courts are saying that if judges dont like a Presidents attitude, not his actions, on an issue there is no limit to what the courts can do.

A woman from the Baltic countries who had lived under both communists and Nazis said she preferred the Nazis because as long as you did what they wanted they left you alone, but the communists insisted that people think the way the communists did.

The same is apparently true of modern liberal judges; following the Constitution -- as reimagined by liberal judges -- is no longer enough. Now politicians thoughts must be judged to be pure, in the sense of following the liberal line, in order for them to be able to exercise their Constitutional authority.

Of course the reality is that the judges know what theyre doing and hence they are simply traitors who refuse to accept the results of the election. As with their communist forbears the ends justify the means, and hence anything that crosses the judges minds is a positive good so long as it resists Trump.

We must recognize that we are at war in America. While conservatives accepted Obamas elections and even stuck to the legal process when Obama repeatedly violated the Constitution, the neofascists, nee liberals, are willing to use violence and illegal actions by the Deep State to negate the peoples votes.

Clearly liberal judges feel absolutely no need to follow the law, the Constitution, or even common sense if those conflict with their fascist desires for a new Amerika. Liberals who arent judges support both the fascist acts of the judges and the violence that antifa thugs use to silence speech they dont like.

These are not our fathers liberals whose policies were wrong but who believed in Democracy, God, and Freedom of Speech. These are the sons and daughters of the liberals who sided with Hitler until he attacked the Soviet Union and who spent the Cold War telling us it was Americas fault.

If the new fascists succeed, our children will grow up in a dictatorship of evil where the elites rule over us from their coastal retreats.

No matter what you think about Trump, we have to go to war with the President we have, and so far hes done a pretty good job of fighting the neofascists. Worrying about Trumps tweets while judges are stealing our freedom is like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic; its only going to help those who are trying to enslave us all.

We need to return to an America where judges only decide what laws mean instead of deciding what the laws should be.

We must resist the resisters with as much energy as they use in trying to enslave us. None of us can sit by and just assume things will work out because were not fighting people of good will anymore; were fighting monsters that want to steal what our forefathers died to give us, our freedom.

You can read more of toms rants at his blog, Conversations about the obvious and feel free to follow him on Twitter
The attempted mass political assassination of GOP congressmen last week has, to paraphrase Doctor Johnson, concentrated the solons' minds wonderfully when it comes to the right of self-defense. Washington, D.C. has some of the most draconian gun laws in the nation, and last week, Congress suddenly realized the truth of the old saying: "When seconds count, the police are minutes away." While Steve Scalise's security detail prevented a systematic mass slaughter, 99% of Congress has no such police constant companionship.

Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.), who plans to run for the seat vacated by A.G. Jeff Sessions, told Maria Bartiromo yesterday that he will be introducing legislation to allow members of Congress (but not the rest of us) to carry sidearms in D.C. (and presumably anywhere else they feel the need for Second Amendment protections):

... I'm going to be introducing legislation this week to do this  is to allow congressmen to carry a side arm should they so desire. Right now when we're in Washington, D.C., once were off the complex, we're still high profile targets, but we have absolutely no way to defend ourselves because of Washington, D.C.'s restrictive gun laws. We're high profile targets for the bad guys, the lone wolves, the terrorists, and I'll be introducing legislation to that effect this week.

This move seems sensible, since members of Congress are indeed sitting ducks (and now they know it). But what about the rest of us?

Will gun-grabbers among the Democrats vote to keep themselves vulnerable and defeat the Brooks legislation? They know that now that madness has been unleashed, it is not only Republicans who are at risk.

But Congress claiming that the Second Amendment protects itself more than it protects the rest of the citizenry is not a viable long-term position.

Something will change. But in this volatile moment, it is hard to predict in which direction.
Members of both parties should work to fix Washington.

Can't we all pretty much agree that Congress is a broken institution, barely capable of functioning at all? Don't a lot of lefties and liberals realize that this concentration of wealth and power in the Washington Beltway is unhealthy for democracy?

Most Republican conservatives, and that's most Republicans, have some sympathy for Paul Ryan, Mitch McConnell, and the rest of the Republican leadership (including, especially, Rep. Steve Scalise, may the Lord help him). But even if you like and respect them, they have an almost impossible job.

The institutions they lead don't work, can't really work. The system is broken and incapable of fixing itself. Read Representative Ken Buck's Drain the Swamp: How Washington Corruption is Worse Than You Think for the details. What can be done?

Pass a Balanced Budget Amendment through Article V, and see what happens. Will Congress respond by faithfully following the new instructions in the Constitution? Or will congressmen play their typical games and pay as much attention to the BBA as they do to the other commands of the Constitution?

What can we do if they flout the BBA? Recall them, all of them. That would require another Article V Amendment. It could simply state that at the next federal election, no sitting member of Congress would be eligible to run. Senators with two and four years remaining could retain their seats, but only for the rest of their terms.

This would not be a term limits amendment. The newly elected members of Congress can serve as long as their constituents elect them. But all of them would know that the state legislatures of this country were ready, willing, and able to throw them all out if they don't perform. They will have done it once and could do it again.

Who would these new congressmen be? Most likely the leaders of the state legislatures. A lot of these people have ambition for higher office. A Senate president or a House speaker is a good candidate for the United States Senate. Other leading state legislators would run for the House.

Since this will be a brand-new Congress, voters will want experienced legislators, with a proven track record, to represent them. In one sense, an Article V congressional recall amendment convention would be a meeting of the same people, more or less, who would be taking over Congress if the amendment is ratified. This may provide some bipartisan motivation.

Congress gets to decide how it's ratified, so it would be by special state conventions. My hunch is that the people of this country, left and right, would jump at the chance to throw the bums out and start over. Maybe that's how we unite the country. Against Congress.

Twenty-seven of the needed 34 State Legislative BBA Resolves have passed. Seven of the remaining states are under Republican control  Idaho, Montana, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Virginia, Minnesota, and South Carolina. This means the vote of no Democratic legislator is needed to call a Balanced Budget Amendment Convention. But this shouldn't be a partisan issue, because it's not a Republican or a Democratic problem. It's an American problem.

The Arizona Legislature has called a Convention of States in Phoenix on September 12. It will be the first national Convention of States since the 1861 Washington Peace Conference. Its purpose is to plan for, and write rules for, the Article V Balanced Budget Amendment Convention, if and when it is called.

Initial reactions to the call have been positive, and all the 32 state legislatures under Republican control are expected to send commissioners to Phoenix. The outlook is less clear for Democrat-controlled legislatures. It is hoped that all states will be represented.

If a Democratic legislature refuses to participate, the question will be why. Are they against Article V, or are they against a Balanced Budget Amendment?

With just a few exceptions, every state legislative leader, regardless of party, is constitutionally required to pass a budget in balance. It's the hardest thing they have to do, but they do it. All of them, Democrat and Republican. Why shouldn't Congress be required to do the same?

Fritz Pettyjohn was an Alaska state senator and House minority leader, who blogs at ReaganProject.com. In 1983 he voted for the Balanced Budget Amendment Convention Resolution. It was carried by Democratic state senator Bob Ziegler of Ketchikan.
The liberal website Vox asked that question and interviewed 20 industry lobbyists to answer it. What the interviewers discovered is not surprising if you've been following the debate over Obamacare for the last seven years.

The health care industry killed Hillarycare in the 1990s and cut deals to shape Obamacare more to its liking in 2009. But now, as Republicans push a sweeping and widely reviled health bill through Congress, the industry has often appeared declawed in the biggest health care fight of the decade. It's a deliberate strategy, interviews with nearly 20 lobbyists and other experts suggest. Health industry groups generally don't love Obamacare enough to jeopardize their ability to shape the rest of the Republican agenda  including big corporate tax cuts. They also fear incurring White House retaliation. The Trump administration has already leveled direct threats to cut off federal subsidies to health insurers, to go after the drug industry, and Republicans hold the purse strings for the federal programs that cover many of the patients seen by the nation's doctors and hospitals. Further complicating matters, different sectors within the industry have very different stakes in repealing Obamacare and replacing it with the GOP's plan. Many health insurers are already ambivalent about Obamacare and could see significant tax cuts if the law is rolled back. Doctors and hospitals, on the other hand, could face a surge in uninsured patients if millions fewer Americans have health coverage. As a result, those groups have not collectively gone all-out, on the airwaves or in the halls of Congress, to stop the GOP's health care bill  even though they have expressed almost unanimous opposition to it. "It's not all-out warfare," said Kim Monk, who tracks the health care debate in Washington for investors at Capital Alpha. "Republicans are going to be around for a while, and they tend to be your allies on really important things." The House legislation is projected to lead to 23 million fewer Americans having health insurance in 2026 and include an $830 billion cut to Medicaid, the nation's largest insurer and a critical safety net for the most vulnerable Americans  and, also, an important source of revenue for hospitals and doctors.

By the way, those numbers come from the notoriously unreliable Congressional Budget Office. And they're based on the GOP House bill, which will be substantially altered by the Senate before the entire bill goes before the president.

But the sentiment in the industry  health insurers, doctors, hospitals, Big Pharma  has always been either ambivalent or opposed to Obamacare. Even the insurance companies, whose support was vital for passage in 2010, have now changed their minds and are abandoning the state exchanges in droves.

They were promised millions of captive customers  consumers forced by the government to purchase their products. But they were also promised that most of the new customers would be "young invincibles"  healthy Americans between 18 and 35 who would jump at the chance to purchase cheap, subsidized insurance.

It was never to be, as younger Americans refused to pay for insurance coverage they didn't need. So most of the sign-ups for Obamacare have been older, sicker Americans who have caused company costs to skyrocket, leading to massive increases in premiums, which forced more customers to drop their coverage. The Obamacare meltdown was predicted from the beginning, and the insurance companies are now paying for their shortsightedness.

Doctors were dubious about the millions of new Medicaid customers under the expanded program. They were already getting paid about half of what it was costing to treat patients, so a large percentage of doctors simply refused to take on any more Medicaid clients.

Drug companies, with stifling new regulations and big tax increases, were the least enthusiastic sector of the health care industry that supported Obamacare. They will look forward to its destruction..

The bottom line is that it will take years to undo the damage done to our health care industry by Obamacare, and many sectors of that industry can't wait to get started.
So far, America's First Black President has not had a lot of stuff named after him, although some of his biggest fans are pushing the idea of naming Chicago's Midway Airport after him, thereby dishonoring the heroic Navy veterans who turned the tide of the Pacific War at the battle for which the Airport is named. This is no idle matter of a plaque in some remote location. Here is one of the best features of that terminal:

The idea of replacing the historic aircraft with (perhaps) a giant animatronic version of Obama uttering his most remembered phrase, "If you like you insurance, you can keep your insurance," has a certain amount of appeal in this age of irony, but humanitarian concerns would not allow it, since passengers frequently are stuck for hours waiting for delayed flights.

The bureaucrats of Dane County (Madison) have a much more appropriate building in mind to memorialize Obama. The Capital Times of Madison reports:

Madison and Dane County leaders are hoping to inject a note of inspiration into the seat of local government by renaming it after the only president who ever set foot near it. At a Thursday press conference, County Executive Joe Parisi announced the effort to christen the structure known for 60 years as simply the City-County Building as the President Barack Obama City-County Building. "Barack Obama was the JFK of our generation," Parisi said at the steps of the seven-story edifice. "He deserves to be honored, and he deserves to be recognized, not only for his accomplishments, but for his commitment to civil discourse and respect, both for those with whom he agreed and for those with whom he disagreed."

Surely the proposal will be approved. Dane County went for Obama by 72.8% in 2008 and 71.03% in 2012.

One look at the building shows that it is perfect:

The Soviet-style concrete, soulless aesthetic perfectly captures the political essence of Obama, who did his best to entrust bureaucrats with life-and-death power over ordinary folk with no accountability. The fundamental transformation he launched was squarely aimed at reinforcing the administrative state, run by bureaucrats who make their own laws and act as their own courts.

The label "brutalism" came to be applied to poured concrete structures that were massive and often fortress-like, and the style was widely embraced by government and higher education bureaucrats tasked with creating new buildings. It is powerful, almost invulnerable in character, qualities that have appeal to certain kinds of "public servants." It became the physical expression of the omni-competent state, certain that it could solve any problem of it only had the resources. Utopia will be delivered by the machinery of government, housed in these factories.

The aesthetic root of the President Barack Obama City-County Building is the work of Alfred Kahn (whose work used brick). This is his famous 1909 Highland Park, Michigan Ford Factory.

Courtesy of Albert Kahn Architects.

Both Hampshire College in Massachusetts and Evergreen State University in Washington are dominated by brutalist structures, which may account for some of the leftist craziness among students at both campuses. Brutalism makes no concessions to the human form or scale.

To call brutalist architecture "out of fashion" now would be to seriously understate the popular resistance to it. Ordinary people shun it, because the buildings often sit surrounded by empty space or plazas that become very windy. The concrete is cold and often angular. There is no consideration given to human scale in the design of the buildings. If you have never read Tom Wolfe's classic From Bauhaus to Our House, there is a treat awaiting you.

The architectural style of the President Barack Obama City-County Building is the most fitting monument possible to the president that Obama really was.
The ramming of the USS Fitzgerald  still being misreported as a "collision"  is shrouded in puzzling behavior. This is an accident (if indeed it was unintentional) that should not have been possible. Now comes news of something very suspicious. The Associated Press has just filed a non-bylined story, "Japan investigates delay in reporting US Navy ship collision," that reveals:

Japan's coast guard is investigating why it took nearly an hour for a deadly collision between a U.S. Navy destroyer and a container ship to be reported. A coast guard official said Monday they are trying to find out what the crew of the Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal was doing before reporting the collision to authorities 50 minutes later.

The coast guard initially said the collision occurred at 2:20 a.m. on Saturday because the Philippines ship had reported it at 2:25 a.m. and said it just happened. After interviewing Filipino crewmembers, the coast guard has changed the collision time to 1:30 a.m.

What was going on that prevented a prompt report?

Nanami Meguro, a spokeswoman for NYK Line, the ship's operator, agreed with the revised timing of the collision. Meguro said the ship was "operating as usual" until the collision at 1:30 a.m., as shown on a ship tracking service that the company uses. She said the ship reported to the coast guard at 2:25 a.m., but she could not provide details about what the ship was doing for nearly an hour. "Because it was in an emergency, the crewmembers may not have been able to place a call," she said.

What about the USS Fitzgerald? Was it in contact with the Japanese authorities? If so, at what time?

There will be a naval official inquiry and quite possibly a court martial. The facts presumably will come out.

... officials are planning to get hold of a device with communication records to examine further details of the crash. Japan's Transport Safety Board also started an accident investigation Monday[.]

The most benign explanations revolve around incompetence. But suspicions are natural when events are systematically mischaracterized and reports are delayed.
President Trump has every right to scream loudly about this investigation. I have never seen anything like this since Patrick Fitzgerald went all over the Milky Way looking for someone to indict about anything.

As for Mr. Comey, it looks for sure as if he had been leaking for months to promote himself at Mr. Trump's expense.

So  exactly what are we investigating again?

First, there is no evidence of any collusion with Russia. Frankly, the idea that Russia impacted our vote is so absurd that it makes me angry that anyone is even peddling the idea. By the way, I am not taking Russia or Putin off the hook. They are and have been adversaries for a long time. They probably have tried to destabilized our system many times. However, I am not blaming Putin for getting millions of Obama's 2012 voters to switch to Trump in 2016.

Second, the appointment of independent counsel seemed like a good idea a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately, leaks and the hiring of Clintonistas is troubling. Couldn't Mr. Mueller find attorneys in the U.S. who did not donate to the Democratic Party?

Third, all of this stuff about "obstruction of justice" is crazy.

I like what James Freeman wrote in the Wall Street Journal:

As for the idea that Mr. Trump might have obstructed justice, Andy McCarthy and Alan Dershowitz and Michael McConnell have separately explained why this is a big stretch, and Richard Epstein makes the case that if anyone in this drama is vulnerable to a possible obstruction charge, it's Mr. Comey. But whatever one believes about the President, the Post reports make Mr. Mueller's team look like political hacks focused on providing inappropriate leaks from an investigation just barely in progress, rather than professionals who are putting aside their politics to do a public service. This is assuming the Post reports are accurate.

Mr. Mueller has a big challenge. He will have to write a report that a divided nation will accept. So far, he is off to a bad start.

P.S. You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) (YouTube) and follow me on Twitter.
Last Thursday, the Washington Post published a sensational report that Special Counsel Robert Mueller was investigating President Trump for obstruction of justice.

But by Sunday, that report and the narrative that Trump was just a hop, skip, and a jump away from impeachment fell apart.

ABC News reported that, in fact, Mueller had not decided yet whether to investigate the president. And one of Trump's lawyers, Jay Sekulow, said categorically on Meet the Press that "[t]he president is not and has not been under investigation for obstruction."

Washington Examiner:

"Now, my sources are telling me he's begun some preliminary planning," Pierre Thomas, the ABC News senior justice correspondent, said of Mueller on ABC's "This Week." "Plans to talk to some people in the administration. But he's not yet made that momentous decision to go for a full-scale investigation." Last week, the Washington Post reported Mueller is investigating the president for obstruction of justice in light of his firing of former FBI Director James Comey, something the president's legal team is denying. "Now Mueller faces a huge decision," Thomas said. "Does he believe the president, who says there's no wrongdoing here, or does he go after the president in the way James Comey wants him to do?"

Sekulow explained the president's tweet that appeared to acknowledge he was under investigation from the special counsel.

The tweet from the president was in response to the five anonymous sources purportedly leaking information to the Washington Post," he said, referring to the Post's report this week that Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the election now also includes a look at whether President Trump attempted to obstruct justice. Sekulow claimed the president is not spending a lot of time composing the tweets, but defended them as a means of speaking directly to voters, saying "he's responding to what he's seeing in the media in a way in which he thinks is appropriate to talk to those people that put him in office." "He's not afraid of the investigation  there is no investigation," Sekulow said, adding, "there is not an investigation of the President of the United States, period."

You have to wonder just what "anonymous sources" the Washington Post relied on to publish this bit of fake news. They were obviously not in the know, which suggests either that someone fed the Post disinformation or that the newspaper didn't care if its report was accurate.

Whatever the reason, the Post report set off a wave of liberal celebrations over the imminent demise of the president. To their minds, "investigation" is tantamount to "guilty," and their cherished goal of removing Donald Trump from office was on track to succeed.

Mueller's probe is in its earliest stages, and the idea that he had narrowed the investigation down to one person is absurd. Mueller may yet look into the president's behavior to see if any obstruction occurred, but he won't open a criminal investigation unless he's pretty damn sure of his grounds. In other words, it's going to take more than a couple of memos from James Comey to get Mueller to look seriously at Trump for obstruction of justice.
Is there any better way to classify the nonstop brouhaha in Washington about President Trump's supposed collusion with the Russians in 2016 than to call it for the chimera it is?

Thank goodness one of them in Congress has done it, then.

Rep. Devin Nunes of California characterized the idiocy just as it should have been from the start by warning the politicos to "stop chasing Russian ghosts around the closet."

It's a heckuva welcome reality check, given all the flapdoodle going on in the Beltway.

This calls to mind two things: that Nunes is the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and that by any partisan or nonpartisan measure, he has quite a bit of knowledge about what the Russians are up to and not up to in their great global power gaming. Apparently, there's nothing there, and nothing is going to change that fact, no matter how bitter Hillary Clinton is about her election loss to Trump.

It's also significant that Nunes is not known as a softie on Russia  in fact, he's one of the harder-liners in Congress on Russian activities. A soggy Ted Kennedy selling out his country to the KGB or a dreamy Bernie Sanders spending his romantic honeymoon at the seat of the Soviet empire at the height of the Cold War, he is not. His staff tend to have an electrical aversion to Russian shenanigans or even the appearance of them.

But here's the real thing going on here: Nunes is calling on Republicans to quit playing Ben Rhodes's and the other Obamatons' spin-cycle "narrative" games and get back to the work the Americans elected them to do.

Americans could not care less about this Russia extravaganza of fake news. Citing a string of polls, the Washington Examiner concluded:

Instead of trying to drink water from a firehose, an apt metaphor for what's required to follow these stories, many Americans just tune out these issues altogether.

An even more recent IBD/TIPP poll came to the same conclusion.

A majority of Americans doubt the 2016 presidential election outcome was influenced by Russia and nearly half agree that the current investigation is a "political 'witch hunt' aimed at getting the president impeached," according to the latest IBD/TIPP Poll.

It was good to see Nunes headlining an event in Orange County a few days ago and delivering that very message  that the Russia obsession is a non-starter, that the American people want Congress to get busy on taxes, jobs, health care, and defense.

It calls to mind that way back in March, when Nunes was under attack for exposing a real crime, the "unmasking" of U.S. citizens to leak-happy intelligence swampers for political purposes, the left mocked the much loved representative of California's great Central Valley for being  horrors!  "a dairy farmer."

Well, being a dairy farmer has its benefits, one of which is having some connection to the voters. The swampers don't understand that. But Nunes does. His call to the GOP to just get back to work is some of the most welcome news to come from Congress.
A U.S. Navy F-18 flying off the USS George H.W. Bush shot down a Russian-made Syrian SU-22 over the skies of Raqqa after President Bashar Assad's air force attacked U.S.-backed forces attacking ISIS.

The engagement was the first between U.S. warplanes and Syria's air force.

Reuters:

A U.S. warplane shot down a Syrian army jet on Sunday in the southern Raqqa countryside, with Washington saying the jet had dropped bombs near U.S.-backed forces and Damascus saying the plane was downed while flying a mission against Islamic State militants. A Syrian army statement released on Syrian state television said the plane crashed and the pilot was missing in the first such downing of a Syrian jet by the United States since the start of the conflict in 2011. The army statement said it took place on Sunday afternoon near a village called Rasafah. The "flagrant attack was an attempt to undermine the efforts of the army as the only effective force capable with its allies ... in fighting terrorism across its territory," the Syrian army said. "This comes at a time when the Syrian army and its allies were making clear advances in fighting the Daesh (Islamic State) terrorist group," it added. The U.S. Central Command later issued a statement saying the Syrian plane was downed "in collective self-defense of Coalition-partnered forces," identified as fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) near Tabqah. It said that "pro-Syrian regime forces" had earlier attacked an SDF-held town south of Tabqa and wounded a number of fighters, driving them from the town. Coalition aircraft in a show of force stopped the initial advance. When a Syrian army SU-22 jet later dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed forces, it was immediately shot down by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet, the statement said. Before it downed the plane, the coalition had "contacted its Russian counterparts by telephone via an established "de-confliction line" to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing." The coalition does "not seek to fight the Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces" but would not "hesitate to defend itself or its "partnered forces from any threat," the statement said. The U.S.-led coalition has in recent weeks escalated its aerial bombing campaign in northern Syria and Raqqa province. U.S.-backed forces have encircled the city of Raqqa and captured several districts from the militants.

This policy of engaging Syrian forces attacking our rebel allies should have been in place from day one. A major reason that recruitment and training of these forces have gone so slowly is that the U.S. refused to protect the fighters we were arming. President Obama's policy of refusing to engage Syrian forces even when they attacked U.S.-backed militias fighting ISIS played right into President Assad's hands. He has been telling the world that his forces are "fighting terrorists," lumping anyone not loyal to the regime in with ISIS. The Russians are pretending to agree with Assad and have done their share of damage to U.S.-backed forces.

But what happens next time if the planes are Russian?

President Putin knows that attacking our allies engaged with ISIS in the fight for Raqqa is a red line not to be crossed. But Putin may have his own reasons to ensure that U.S.-backed fighters don't end up taking Raqqa. The prestige of taking the ISIS capital would empower rebel forces, possibly prolonging the civil war.

Raqqa is being attacked from three sides, with Hezb'allah militiamen and Syrian army units controlling several nearby towns and U.S. allies closing in from the north, west, and east. The battle is expected to be long and bloody, with a rising toll of civilian casualties, as ISIS is preventing people from leaving. The Pentagon says "hundreds" of U.S. soldiers are participating in the fight to liberate the city, but it is believed that most of the U.S. military efforts are directed toward intelligence, logistics, and long-range artillery.

There is a possibility that as the pockets of resistance in Raqqa diminish, there will be confrontations between pro-Assad forces and the Arab-Kurdish coalition allied with the U.S. It would be just one more open wound in Syria's civil war that has already killed at least 400,000.
The norias of the ancient Syrian city of Hama are seventeen historic waterwheels located along the Orontes River that date back to the Byzantine Era, although locals claim they are older still.

The water wheels, called noria, are part of the citys now-defunct irrigation system, and were designed to lift water from the river and move it through aqueducts to agricultural fields and peoples home. The wheels were powered by the current of the flowing river. As the wheels moved, wooden buckets placed at the periphery of the wheels scooped water out from the river and emptied it into aqueducts. Gravity then lead the water along aqueducts to its destination in various parts of the city.

Photo credit: Alessandra Kocman/Flickr

Its difficult to say when and where the first noria came into existence. Ancient writings of Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, a Roman military engineer, suggests that they might have been invented by the Romans, probably in the 1st century BC. Other sources suggest norias were developed in India in the fifth or fourth century BC, after which the technology spread to the west and China. Another possibility of origin is Greece around the late third or early second century B.C, as ancient manuscripts suggests.

In any case, norias were eventually adopted by Muslim engineers who made certain improvements to the device, for instance, the addition of the flywheel mechanism used to smooth out the delivery of power. Norias became increasingly popular throughout the Middle East. Some of the norias used in the medieval Islamic world were as large as 20 meters in diameter and could lift as much as 2,500 liters of water per minute. The norias at Hama are the largest surviving example of this medieval technology.

At one point, there were more than thirty norias in Hama, but only 17 of the original water wheels have survived into the 21st century. They are still in good working condition, although the water from these wheels is no longer used.

Photo credit: Franco Pecchio/Flickr

Photo credit: Johan Siegers/Flickr

Photo credit: Johan Siegers/Flickr

Photo credit: Martin Gotthard/Flickr

Photo credit: Martin Gotthard/Flickr

Sources: Wikipedia / Famous Wonders / Machinery Lubrication
US Secretary of Defense James Mattis and his Qatari counterpart Khalid bin Mohammad al-Attiyah recently signed an initial agreement for a $12-billion sale of US-manufactured F-15 fighters to Qatar.

The sale came amid the simmering crisis in the Persian Gulf after Saudi Arabia and its regional allies accused Qatar of supporting terrorism and cut diplomatic ties with Doha following US President Donald Trump's tour of the Middle East during which he alleged the emirate's involvement in "high-level funding" of terrorism. On the same day as the deal, two US warships arrived at Qatar's Hamad Port for a joint military drill in the Gulf.

In a statement after the agreement, Qatar's defense ministry said the deal highlighted the joint efforts of Qatar and the United States to fulfill their commitments to bilateral military cooperation. Coming a few days after Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates launched a diplomatic embargo against Qatar, the move by the US reflects the Trump administration's diplomatic ambivalence toward the Middle East region.

During his first overseas trip to Saudi Arabia as US president, Trump struck arms deals with Saudi Arabia worth $110 billion and a contract worth $350 billion over the next 10 years.

As a reward for Riyadh, Trump made critical remarks against Qatar along with Iran during his Middle East trip, emboldening Riyadh's diplomatic boycotting of Doha.

However, the diplomatic crisis around Qatar may have gone beyond the Trump administration's imagining. Despite being a small nation, Qatar is of strategic significance to the US given that it is home to the US' largest airbase in the Middle East and the command headquarters for US military operations in the region. The diplomatic rift following Trump's accusations against Qatar has brought such trouble to the US that US departments of state and defense had to reassure Doha.

The US' U-turn toward Qatar is once again proof of the US' "money-first" foreign policy.

-Beijing Youth Daily
Schools use loaned laptops to spy on students

Rhode Island schools operating 1-1 programs are spying on students. Under the terms of the program adopted by 22 of the states 33 school districts, students each get a laptop supplied by a third party. The issue is that everything students do on those laptops gets seen by the State.

Even if you use the machine at home, the State is watching you.

If you can afford your own laptop, no problem. What you do at school can be monitored but at home you have a right to privacy. But if youre poorer, a child in a family that cant afford laptops, you are watched day and night.

Something that was intended to open up young minds and increase freedom and free thought is being used to control and limit. The people behind these schemes have a pretty low opinion of the students they teach, treating them as suspects.

How that webcam, kiddo?

The ACLU adds:

It also discovered that a majority of those districts allow school officials or administrators to remotely access the device  while a student is at home, without their knowledge, and without any suspicion of misconduct. We know from an outrageous Pennsylvania case, in which school administrators were found to have activated webcams to spy on students in their homes.

CBS reported on that appalling abuse of trust in Pennsylvanias Lower Merion School District. The school had captured over 50,000 screenshots o! students using their computers:

Holly Robbins, Blakes mother, told CBS News, I dont feel this school has the right to put cameras inside the kids home, inside their bedrooms and spy on them. The Robbins family claims they learned of the breach after the assistant principal showed Blake pictures of himself and confronted him for engaging in improper behavior in his home. Blake said, She thought I was selling drugs, which is completely false. Thats when Holly and her husband, Michael Robbins, filed a federal lawsuit against the Lower Merion School District, claiming officials had spied on their son. School officials admitted theyd captured thousands of webcam photographs and screen shots from student laptops in a misguided effort to locate missing computers.

The school district agreed a $610,000 settlement. Blake received $175,000 in a trust and $25,000 up front. The lawyers got a huge slice of it, naturally.

Spotter: RicCentral,High School Non-Confidential: How School-Loaned Computers May Be Peering Into Your Home.

Anorak

Posted: 19th, June 2017 | In: News, Technology Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
(ANSA) - Crotone, June 19 - A 29-year-old Iraqi asylum seeker was arrested for suspected terrorism Monday in an operation hailed by Interior Minister Marco Minniti. Hussein Abs Hamir is suspected of spreading pro-ISIS propaganda and instigating some inmates of the SPRAR asylum-seeker reception centre in Crotone to join the so-called Islamic State and carry out acts of violence. "There's no need to go to Iraq or Syria to wage jihad," he says in a wiretap, "you can stay in Italy to redeem the unfaithful, whose throats must be cut". Police found photos of police stations and police officers on his phone.

"The system of prevention worked," said Minister Minniti, congratulating Calabrian police and prosecutors who worked on the case.

Catanzaro Chief Prosecutor Nicola Gratteri said "we had to intervene because we believed the suspect posed a concrete flight risk.

"We were afraid, as has already happened on other occasions, that the subject might leave Calabria to carry out a terrorist attack". Gratteri called the probe that led to Hamir's arrest "an important investigation, the fruit of the incessant and careful work of the DIGOS security police in Crotone, of assistant prosecutor Giovanni Bombardieri and prosecutor Paolo Petrolo. Gratteri said "we constantly monitored his movements and contacts, we saw him exult at the Machester attack on May 22.

"His radicalisation had become increasingly dangerous," said the Catanzaro chief prosecutor, one of Italy's top anti-mafia and anti-terror investigators.

Prosecutor Bombardieri said "the evidence gathered showed that the suspect spread propaganda for ISIS not only in the SPRAR centre he was hosted by but also by trying to infiltrate the Crotone mosque". He said Hamir came to Europe in 2008, first in Norway, then Finland, Germany and Denmark, before finally coming to Italy in 2012, landing on the coats of Puglia and putting in an asylum application.

Bombardieri highlighted "two worrying episodes": firstly a March visit to Rome, in which he "tried to gauge the potential police response by going around with a white plastic bag; and secondly the "dangerous" material found on the suspect's cellphone. Crotone Police Chief Claudio Sanfilippo described the case as showing a "dangerous dossier" and he stressed the "enormous intelligence work that the Crotone anti-terror unit carries out on a daily basis".

Crotone DIGOS chief Francesco Meduri said Hamir was "a highly dangerous and violent subject, who always carried on him a box-cutter and sometimes threatened other SPRAR inmates because in his view they were not following the precepts of Islam".


(ANSA) - Luxembourg, June 19 - EU Foreign Affairs High Representative Federica Mogherini said Monday she could't rule out European victims in the Mali resort terror attack in which two tourists were killed. "We are informing the families in these difficult and dramatic hours that show that Europeans and Africans are brothers and sisters both in the fight against and the response to terrorism," she said on arrival at an EU foreign ministers' meeting here. Mogherini said she had been in contact overnight with the Malian foreign ministry. "We are together in this fight against terrorism, with our EU men and women on the ground to back the Mali forces with our military and civilian missions and our support for the joint force of Mali and the Sahel with a contribution of 50 million euros".


(ANSAmed) - MOSCOW, JUNE 19 - Russia on Monday announced that it was suspending an agreement with the US-led coalition to prevent collisions in Syrian airspace. After US forces shot down a Syrian SU-22 fighter jet south of Tabqah on Sunday, the Russian defense ministry said that it was ''terminating cooperation with the US counterpart as part of the memorandum for the prevention of accidents and flight safety during the operation in Syria''. Moscow added that US forces had not used the military hotline set up when it shot down the Syrian fighter jet.



''The shooting down of a Syrian jet in Syrian airspace,'' the Russian defense ministry statement said, ''is a cynical violation of the sovereignty of the Syrian Arab Republic.



Numerous war acts by US aviation presented as part of the 'war on terrorism' against legitimate armed forces of a UN member state are a clear violation of international law and a de facto act of war against the Syrian Arab Republic.'' (ANSAmed).


TUNIS - A new documentary by Tunisian director and activist Souheil Bayoudh titled "Open Church", on the current debate over religious freedom and conscience, is set to debut in coming days throughout Europe and the US at film festivals and film forums.



Bayoudh is no stranger to sensitive topics for Tunisian society, such as torture, cannabis use, and irregular emigration, and in this documentary he tackles the truly taboo subject of religious freedom in Tunisia.



The approximately 30-minute film depicts stories told by Muslim Tunisians who converted to Christianity.



The 2014 Tunisian Constitution ensures "freedom of religion and conscience" but still sanctions the state as the "guarantor and guardian of religion".



Bayoudh told ANSA the documentary is the first of a series on the theme of religious plurality.



He said his second work will instead be focused on the persecution of Jews in Tunisia as well as their history and relationship with Muslims.



He said the documentary will open social and political debate in Tunisia and abroad, because "it highlights some of the problems caused by the 'Modus Vivendi' agreement that was signed with the Vatican by then-president Bourguiba in 1964 that strictly limits the activities of the Catholic Church in Tunisia, a fact that has brought, over time, 'secret' churches and sects that operate in the underground".



"Therefore, I think it's currently necessary to modify the 'Modus Vivendi', which is a tool that I judge to be, by now, outdated, and unconstitutional because it de facto limits the exercise of religious freedom," Bayoudh said.



"Rather, we need to expand recognition of the powers vested in the Catholic Church, also in order to stop the proliferation of unknown churches and secret sects that may be dangerous," he said.(ANSAmed).


Tourists evacuated in Croatia amid massive wildfires Strong winds accelerating blazes, acres of forests burning

(ANSAmed) - ZAGREB, JUNE 19 - Three massive forest fires have been blazing since last Saturday on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast along the Makarska Riviera south of Split, prompting tourist evacuations and causing traffic problems.



The fires have been stoked by strong winds and have devoured acres of forest and coastal foliage around the tourist cities of Podgora, Tucepi, and Makarska.



On Sunday night, the flames crept closer to inhabited areas and about 800 tourists were transferred from three hotels in Tucepi to other lodging complexes not at risk from the fires.



Traffic in the affected areas was almost completely blocked.



About 250 firefighters are battling the blazes, using four Canadair firefighting aircraft, but the fierce winds are hampering their efforts.



On Monday, 150 Croatian Army soldiers are expected to arrive to assist the firefighters.(ANSAmed).




(by Flavia Ressmann) - SAFED (ISRAEL), JUNE 19 - Pregnant women, severely ill children and many others of all ages and religions that the Syrian war has torn apart both spiritually and physically are treated by Ziv Hospital. The modern, technologically advanced medical facilities are in northern Israel, 11 km from the Lebanese border and 30 from the Syrian one. The doors to the hospital are ''always open to anyone'', and life-saving treatment is free. With a clean smell and brimming with efficiency, the doctors and nurses are smiling and cordial to visitors and the plastic surgeon Shokrey Kassis gave up some of his time to speak to a group of Italian journalists. Blue-shirted and mask pushed up onto his head, the doctor showed off his Italian, which he learned in the 1980s in Rome, where he got his degree in medicine. Italy, he said, ''is my second home, after Galilee, where I was born''. On the wall of the room where he receives the journalists, there are many devices operating with numbers, tables and images that show well the work of the hospital, but Kassis wanted to tell another story. ''The injured who arrive from Syria - 720 this year, thus far - tell us about a very difficult situation. They know that other countries are interfering with Damascus and they are paying the highest price. It has become a war of gangs. There is no revolution any longer, no ideology. They are afraid of those around them. They have lost peace and no longer know what is better and what is worse for them. They only know that they are victims of this war.'' However, he adds, ''all of them, once treated, want to go home. They cry to be able to return as soon as possible, even if they do not know what or who they will find waiting for them.'' Building confidence between Israeli doctors and Syrian patients has not been easy nor did it happen quickly. The first patient arrived four years ago.



''In the hospital,'' he continued. ''Many had never seen a Syrian and it was difficult for Syrians to agree to be treated by those they had previously considered the equivalent of the devil himself. Once past this mutual surprise, living together has become a habit and strong bonds have been formed.'' Whether they are civilians or fighters loyal to President Bashar Al-Assad, Free Syrian Army groups or Islamic ones does not matter to the medical staff. Kassis said that ''we treat them as best we can. We make sure they have everything they need for the time they stay here, whether it is a week or months. And we do not ask them questions about what side they are on.'' Israeli army doctors on the border with Syria give the injured first aid and then select the most serious cases and send them in an ambulance to Ziv Hospital. Children are also accompanied by a family member, who stays in a room with them. Social workers who speak Arabic are tasked with making them feel at home, such as Faris Issa, a Christian with a disarming smile. ''On their arrival,'' he says as a Syrian child under age 1 clambers for him to pick him up, ''I give them a bag with some necessities, such as clothes, a toothbrush, a copy of the Quran and a prayer mat. They often arrive here without anything on them, and even those accompanying them need medical care.'' ''Medicine has no borders and can act as a bridge between people. We will continue to provide medical care that saves the lives of injured Syrians so long as the need exists,'' is the Ziv Hospital's stated philosophy.
Thousands of migrants landing on Italian shores Traffickers arrested at Sicilian Port of Augusta

(ANSAmed) - ROME, JUNE 19 - Thousands of migrants have arrived in recent days and even in the last hours on the Italian shores in Sicily, Calabria and Campania.



In particular, in Palermo, the Italian Coast Guard ship Diciotti arrived with 1,096 migrants who had been saved in various rescue operations in the Mediterranean. There were 751 men, 160 women (11 of whom were pregnant), and 185 children aboard. A task force coordinated by the local prefecture was present at the ship's arrival in port, made up of health workers, law enforcement, Caritas Catholic charity and the Red Cross.



Twenty-three different nationalities were among the 1,045 refugees who arrived in the Port of Reggio Calabria aboard the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) ship "Vos Prudence". There were 867 men, 158 women (28 of whom were pregnant), and 20 accompanied children. Health screenings revealed the presence of psychological trauma, respiratory difficulties, and injuries due to beatings the migrants had undergone during their stay in Libya, according to MSF Italy director Gabriele Eminente. At port the prefecture-coordinated task force was present, made up of state police and Carabinieri police, finance police, emergency health workers, the Red Cross, Caritas Catholic charity, the Knights of Malta, the Reggio Calabria Provincial Medical Board, and volunteer associations. The time to identify and fingerprint the migrants is estimated to take at least two business days, given the high number of arrivals currently taking place at ports across Italy. Meanwhile, Two traffickers were identified among the 652 migrants (127 of whom were children) who arrived at the commercial Port of Augusta on Sunday aboard the Swedish Coast Guard ship "KVB 200 Triton". Authorities from the interforce group fighting immigration of the Syracuse prosecutor's office arrested the suspected traffickers, one from Senegal and the other from Sudan, who were allegedly trafficking a group of 134 migrants on a rubber raft.



The men were taken to the Cavadonna prison in Syracuse, accused of aiding illegal immigration.



According to witness accounts, the migrants had left Libya from the Port of Sabratha last Thursday night. Each of them allegedly paid between 1,500 and 2,000 Libyan dinars, the equivalent of between 900 and 1,300 euros.



On Monday evening around 21:00, 526 migrants are expected to arrive at Commercial Pier 3 January in Salerno aboard the Spanish ship "Canarias". There are 454 men, 53 women (of whom one is pregnant), and 19 minors (of whom 16 are younger than nine years old and the rest are between 9 and 15 years old).



The migrants aboard are from Ghana, Sudan, Senegal, Guinea, Gambia, Mali, Nigeria, and Togo. On Monday morning, the Salerno prosecutor's office held the customary crisis unit meeting to prepare for this 19th arrival.




- NEW YORK - UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has chosen former Lebanese culture minister Ghassan Salameh as the new UN envoy to Libya, ending a contentious four-month search. Salameh will now have to have his candidature approved by the Security Council.



Diplomatic sources at the UN headquarters have told ANSA that the approval is expected to come on Tuesday. In February, the US rejected the choice of former Palestinian PM Salam Fayyad as successor to Martin Kobler. (ANSAmed).
US downs Syrian jet, Damascus says 'US sponsors terrorism' Hit on Sunday near Raqqa, pilot missing

(ANSAmed) - ROME, JUNE 19 - Syria on Monday said the US downing of a Syrian warplane on Sunday is a "flagrant aggression that unequivocally shows the real position of the United States in support of terrorism" that "threatens the ability" of Syrian forces to fight extremism in the country, according to the Syrian general command.



A US fighter jet, for the first time in the Syrian conflict, on Sunday shot down a Syrian warplane that was bombing US-led coalition fighters near Raqqa. The Syrian government said the pilot is missing.



"The Coalition's mission is to defeat Isis in Iraq and Syria.



The Coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend Coalition or partner forces from any threat," said a statement from the US-led anti-ISIS coalition.(ANSAmed).




ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean

(ANSAmed) - ROME, JUNE 19 - The following are the main events scheduled in the Euro-Mediterranean area for tomorrow.



TUESDAY, JUNE 20. VARIOUS CITIES - World Refugee Day.



ROME - UNHCR conference at the foreign press club on Italy's role in managing migrant reception and cooperation with third countries.



LUXEMBOURG - Stabilization and Association Council meeting between the European Union and Montenegro. MOSCOW - meeting between the heads of Russian and French diplomacy, Sergey Lavrov and Jean-Yves Le Drian, to discuss the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine as well as other issues. ASTANA - another round of peace talks on Syria.




Council of Europe calls on EU to use Dublin Regulation more To aid Italy for family reunifications in other EU countries

(ANSAmed) - STRASBOURG, JUNE 19 - Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muiznieks told ANSA that Italy would benefit from a "greater use of the Dublin Regulation on the part of other member states of the European Union to reunite recently arrived asylum seekers with their families who are elsewhere in Europe".



Muiznieks spoke to ANSA on the occasion of the publication of the Council of Europe document titled "Realising the right to family reunification of refugees in Europe" in which it offers 36 recommendations to member states.



He said if other EU countries were to make greater use of the possibilities offered by the Dublin system for reuniting refugees with their families, it could help, for example, "unaccompanied minors currently blocked in Italy who have family members in other EU countries".(ANSAmed).




Representing with over 1 100 delegates, from over 230 airlines, 75 schedules- facilitated or fully coordinated airports and 75 exhibitors and sponsors.

Oman Airports commercial team met with airlines network managers, discussing potential possibilities in adding new frequencies or implementing new routes to Oman Airports, including Muscat, Salalah, Sohar and Duqm airports. The meetings consisted of especially Middle Eastern, European, South East Asian, Indian subcontinent and African carriers.
This MAX 10 order further enhances our fleet with the newest technology, offering our customers commonality along with increased range and available seating, said Alec Burger, president and chief executive officer of GECAS. Combining the increased capacity of the MAX 10 and the CFM International LEAP-1B engines offers our customers many benefits.

GECAS has 170 MAX airplanes on order, the largest of any aircraft leasing company.

Simply put, the MAX 10 will be the most profitable airplane the single-aisle sector has ever seen, said Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Kevin McAllister. GECAS understands the benefits the MAX 10 will bring to its customers across the globe. We appreciate their continued confidence in the MAX family.

"The 737 MAX 10 extends the competitive advantage of the 737 MAX family and we're honored that so many customers across the world have embraced the outstanding value it will bring to their fleets. Airlines wanted a larger, better option in the large single-aisle segment with the operating advantages of the 737 MAX family. Adding the 737 MAX 10 gives our customers the most flexibility in the market, providing their fleets the range capability, fuel efficiency and unsurpassed reliability that the 737 MAX family is widely known for."
The Kuwait forces has signed a contract for the purchase of 30 multirole Caracal H225M helicopters (24 for the Kuwait Air Force and 6 for the Kuwait National Guard) in order to carry out combat search and rescue duties, transport and ground support missions. To meet the pilots and crews hands-on training needs, Thales will supply a Reality H Full Flight Mission Simulator (FFMS) as well as two trainer stations for flight procedures and tactical training.



Pilots will receive training - in a realistic tactical visual environment  in normal navigation procedures, instrument flight, how to handle failures and emergency procedures, which cannot be easily accomplished on real helicopters. The communication systems, weapons and self-protection systems, as well as the in-flight refueling function, are identical to those of the real helicopter, to ensure pilots are trained as in real-life conditions.



Installed on the ground flight procedures for new pilots, and tactical training for captains and crews. The two training stations and the Full Flight Mission Simulator can be networked for collective training exercises and to prepare the crews for complex missions.



This contract also covers the maintenance of the simulators in operational conditions for at least three years.
The new contract extends WFS working relationship with Qatar Airways in Europe, where it is already providing cargo handling services for the airline in Madrid, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Frankfurt and Paris.

Marc Claesen, WFS regional vice president, said: We are delighted to now be working with Qatar Airways at our two hubs in Scandinavia and at other WFS stations in Europe. Winning this contract proves the value and strength of the WFS network, which helps us to build growing relationships with major airlines based on the high quality of our safety, security and service performance.
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Officials in southern New Mexicos Dona Ana County on Friday unveiled the coroners century-old report for the Old West lawman who fatally shot Billy the Kid.

The February 1908 document handwritten in cursive script and signed by six men laid out the few findings of a coroners jury investigation into the shooting death of famed lawman Pat Garrett. The previously unknown document was discovered inside a box of un-archived records by a county clerks office employee last November in the clerks office vault.

The county kept its discovery secret for months before the document was presented to the public for the first time Friday. About 150 people attended the unveiling ceremony at the countys Government Center, including one of Garretts granddaughters, Susannah Garrett of Santa Fe, according to the Las Cruces Sun-News.

Finding the document was an amazing miracle, really. Its very powerful, she said.

The framed, yellowed document is signed by several justices of the peace and coroners. It states that Pat Garrett was reported dead in Dona Ana County in the territory of New Mexico about five miles northeast of Las Cruces and died from gunshot wounds inflicted by one Wayne Brazel.

Records show Brazel was acquitted after a one-day trial in which his attorney successfully argued self-defense.

Garrett served as sheriff in Lincoln and Dona Ana counties before being appointed as a customs collector along the U.S.Mexico border. Bob Stahl, historian and professor emeritus at Arizona State University, gave an overview of coroners juries in New Mexicos territorial days. They were a six-person panel appointed by the local coroner or justice of the peace to look into notable deaths.

When you look at this particular document, you will find that its very sparse in detail, he said. And one of the reasons for this is that, during the territorial days, there were no specific, detailed guidelines to direct the jury in its investigation or to direct the kind of decision you had to make.
I attended a small rally supporting the Public Theater at Astor Place on Thursday, and then headed uptown to see the production about which so much digital ink has been spilled. I left in a state of some dejection. As many critics and Eustis himself have naturally pointed out, Julius Caesar is hardly a play that advocates the assassination of overweening political leaders. In turning to violent means, the assassins destroy themselves, and Romes already endangered democracy. Blood begets blood, and, as in many Shakespeare plays, the stage ends up littered with corpses of Romans noble and otherwise. But there is a bit of sophistry involved in critics defending the production on the basis of the complexity of Shakespeares play and the ideas about rulership and politics it embodies.
Mrs. T drove me up to Peterborough, New Hampshire, and dropped me off at the MacDowell Colony five years ago this past weekend. I spent the five weeks that followed working on Duke: A Life of Duke Ellington and Satchmo at the Waldorf. During that time I saw no shows and wrote no pieces for The Wall Street Journal or any other publication, though I did attend a memorable concert of music by colonists past and present. Otherwise I did nothing but write, stroll idly through the woods, eat the famously tasty meals provided by the staff, and get to know my fellow colonists, with two of whom I formed friendships that have lasted to this day.

The studio in which I spent my mornings and afternoons, whose previous occupants include James Baldwin, Ruth Draper, and Spalding Gray, had no wi-fi, and I didnt miss it after the first couple of days. I was overjoyed to be forced to pull the plug on the ceaseless hum and buzz of my everyday life, and concentrate instead on the work that had brought me there.

I arrived at MacDowell a bit more than a month after the death of my mother, an experience about which I had previously written a long posting. The colonists at MacDowell colonists are invited to present an example of their work during the stay, and I chose to read an excerpt from that piece, to which my listeners responded with sympathy and warmth. Not surprisingly, my mother was very much on my mind throughout my staybut rarely during the day. Never before had I worked with such single-minded focus as I did at MacDowell, so much so that I was even able to put aside, if only for a time, my grief.

It was at MacDowell that I started to see myself for the first time not merely as a critic but as an artist as well. I wrote about this new self-understanding the day after I left:

Satchmo was premiered in Florida last fall, and a much-revised version of the play will soon be staged by two New England theater companies. Yet in spite of these undertakings, I continued to have difficulties seeing myself as anything other than a critic, a professional appreciator without creative powers of my own. Whenever I tried to tell people about the inexplicable thing that was happening to me, I felt obliged to resort to a grotesque metaphor. It feels as if Ive grown another arm, Id say. Coming to the MacDowell Colony was a turning point in this process. Five weeks ago I withdrew from the world and drove to a secluded woodland retreat in New Hampshire, where I found myself in the company of some thirty-odd professional artists. I presented myself to them as a fellow artist and was accepted as one.My closest friends were a poet, a filmmaker, two installation artists, an avant-garde visual artist of ambiguous genre, and a dancer turned law professor. A couple of weeks ago I even acted (in a manner of speaking) in a reading of the first scene of an unfinished play by another colonist. My character, appropriately enough, was a failed actor dun age certain who had just written his first play. Toward the end of my stay, I confessed my continuing uncertainties to one of my new friends. I come from a small town, just like you, and for years I felt like it was a privilege to be an artist, like I didnt really deserve it, she told me. That was how I was raised. Then I met a woman from Sweden who told me, My dear, being an artist is your job. And I knew she was right.

Five years later, Satchmo at the Waldorf has been produced off Broadway and throughout America. A year ago I made my professional debut as a stage director, and my second play, Billy and Me, will be premiered in West Palm Beach in December. Yes, Im still a critic, and proud to be onebut I now know that I am also, beyond any possibility of doubt, an artist. I owe this miraculous transformation in part to my marriage to Mrs. T, who encouraged me to dig more out of myself than I had ever thought possible, and in part to the MacDowell Colony, which flung the door of possibility wider still and invited me to step through it. I bless the names of the men and women who saw fit to let me work there. They changed my life.

* * *

The New England Conservatory Contemporary Ensemble performs the original chamber version of Aaron Coplands Appalachian Spring, composed in part at the MacDowell Colony:
Tax department will now move to take over the 9.8 per cent shareholding Cairn Energy had in Cairn India.

New Delhi: The Income Tax Department has ordered coercive action against Cairn Energy Plc to recover Rs 10,247 crore of retrospective tax after the British oil firm lost a challenge to the move before an international arbitration panel.

The department ordered taking away USD 104 million dividend due to it from its remaining stake in the erstwhile subsidiary Cairn India (now called Vedanta Ltd) and another Rs 1,500 crore of tax refund due to it, a top source said.

This follows an international arbitration panel last week deciding not to entertain a plea by Cairn Energy seeking injunction against the coercive action to recover the tax.

The source said the tax department will now move to take over the 9.8 per cent shareholding Cairn Energy had in Cairn India.

In an emailed statement, Cairn Energy confirmed the tax department's move.

"On June 16, 2017 the Indian Income Tax Department (IITD) issued an order to Vedanta India Ltd (VIL) directing it to pay over any sums due to Cairn. Sums due to Cairn from VIL now total USD 104 million, including historical dividends of USD 53 million and a further dividend of USD 51 million after the merger of CIL and VIL," it said.

The company said however that it will continue with the international arbitration proceedings against the retrospective tax demand.

"Cairn is seeking full restitution for (UK-India Bilateral Investment Treaty) Treaty breaches resulting from the expropriation of its investments in India in 2014, the attempts to enforce retrospective tax measures and the failure to treat the Company and its investments fairly and equitably," it said.

The company said it has a high level of confidence in its case under the Treaty and, in addition to resolution of the retrospective tax dispute, its claim seeks damages equal to the value of the Group's residual shareholding in Cairn India at the time it was attached (approximately USD 1 billion).
The manufacturers expect normalisation of operations to take at least 2-3 months after the GST implementation.

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley with MoS Santosh Gangwar and CEA Arvind Subramanian at the GST Council meeting in New Delhi on Sunday. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Consumer durables makers say the run up to GST implementation has caused discomfort among their trade partners who are busy clearing old stock to avoid losses before the new indirect tax regime kicks in next month.

The manufacturers expect normalisation of operations to take at least 2-3 months after the GST implementation.

GST has caused a sense of discomfort amongst the traders as they are worried over the cash flow that might occur during GST implementation therefore, consumer-centric offers are being introduced, Panasonic India head  channel operations Ajay Seth told PTI.

Explaining the current situation in the industry value chain, Godrej Appliances business head and executive vice president Kamal Nandi said that if distributors were to carry carry forward stocks to the GST regime from VAT regime, they would lose around 3-4 per cent margin. Right now they are liquidating their stock. If they do not have any stock, they are purchasing it. They are not upstocking anything, he added.

According to the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA), the situation could take up to three months to normalise after the implementation of GST.
SpiceJet is scheduled to take the delivery of its first 737 MAX in 2018.

Mumbai: Budget carrier SpiceJet today signed an initial pact with the US aircraft maker Boeing Co for 40 737 MAX planes. A Memorandum Understanding (MoU), valued at USD 4.7 billion at current list prices, was signed at the Paris Air Show, which commenced today.

The agreement is split evenly between 20 new orders for the 737 MAX 10 and conversions of 20 737 MAX 8 airplanes from the airline's existing order to 737 MAX 10s, according to a release.

"As a Boeing 737 operator and current customer of the 737 MAX, we are proud to be a part of the launch of the 737 MAX 10 and to be the first airline in India to order the newest version of the 737, which will enable us to maximise revenue on our dense routes while having a lower unit seat cost," SpiceJet Chairman and managing Director Ajay Singh said in a release.

"With the introduction of our 737 MAXs next year, we will be able to further expand our network, while keeping our costs low for our customers," Singh said.

The Gurgaon-based no-frills airline had earlier this year announced that it will purchase up to 205 new aircraft (including 55 from the 2014 order) from Boeing with the order valued at USD 22 billion.

SpiceJet currently has a fleet of 55 planes, comprising 35 Boeing B 737s 20 Bombardier Q400s.

"SpiceJet continues to be an aviation leader and strong Boeing partner, and we are honoured to have them join 737 MAX 10 launch group," Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin McAllister said.

"The additional 20 737 MAX 8s and capacity provided by these 20 new 737 MAX 10s will allow SpiceJet to offer even more passengers their award-winning on-board experience, while the airplane's efficiency will keep SpiceJet profitable," he said.

The budget carrier had in 2014 placed an order for 55 737 MAX jets with Boeing. With the earlier order for 55 planes and additional 100 new 737-8 MAX aircraft, the no-frills carrier firmed up order for a total of 155 planes along with the rights to purchase 50 more aircraft comprising B737-8 MAX and wide- bodied ones, taking the total number of planes to 205.

SpiceJet is scheduled to take the delivery of its first 737 MAX in 2018. The carrier plans to grow its operational fleet to 200 planes by the end of the decade and looks to expand regionally with the new 737 MAX family of aircraft, the release added.
Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

Paris: Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with Indias Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

Indias air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

But Modis Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with US Presidents America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the US and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, a joint statement by the firms said.

Swedens Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the worlds largest defense contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the worlds most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter, the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.
When asked about trends in terms of deposits from Indian residents, Langlo said it has not noticed any particular trend.

Committing itself to the global framework for automatic exchange of tax information, Switzerland last week ratified the decision to implement this regime with India and 40 other jurisdictions.

New Delhi: Indians have few deposits in Swiss banks compared to other global financial hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong, says a grouping of private bankers in Switzerland amid stepped-up efforts to check the black money menace.

Money held by Indians in Swiss banks declined to a record low of 1.2 billion franc (about Rs 8,392 crore) at the end of 2015, as per the latest available official data. However, no official data is available for money in other global hubs.

Committing itself to the global framework for automatic exchange of tax information, Switzerland last week ratified the decision to implement this regime with India and 40 other jurisdictions.

The framework for automatic exchange of information requires strict adherence to data confidentiality, but the Geneva-based Association of Swiss Private Banks said it has no particular concern over India, where the rule of law seems to be properly upheld. There are also rather few deposits of Indian residents in Switzerland, as opposed to Singapore or Hong Kong for instance, the associations manager Jan Langlo told PTI from Geneva.

When asked about trends in terms of deposits from Indian residents, Langlo said it has not noticed any particular trend. It is simply more practical for them to open an account in an Asian financial centre than in Switzerland, Mr Langlo noted.

Currently, the association has nine member banks employing around 7,500 people across the globe, as per its website. The grouping represents the business interests of privately-owned Swiss banks that specialise in wealth management.

According to data from the Swiss National Bank, the funds held by Indians with banks in Switzerland fell by CHF 596.42 million to CHF 1,217.6 million at the end of 2015.
Note-ban-induced slowdown fails to curb enthusiasm.

SBI has said it may look at taking the general insurance business public next fiscal, ruling out any such move in 2017-18.

Mumbai: The demonetisation induced economic slowdown havent deterred foreign portfolio investors (FPI) from making heavy investment in the Indian capital market as expectation about a stronger recovery in both corporate earnings growth as well as economy have encouraged many of them to take a long-term bet on India.

The prospects of a lower than expected rate hike by the United States Federal Reserve along with the governments ability to push through economic reforms like the goods and services tax (GST) have also contributed to higher investments by overseas investors.

According to the data available with National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL), overseas investors have pumped in record Rs 1.41 lakh crore in the markets in 2017 till date.

While the equity markets saw a net investment of Rs 53,759 crore, the debt market witnessed an inflow of Rs 87,336 crore. Their total investment in both the equity and debt market is the highest ever investment made when compared to the same period in previous years.

Things can only get better from here and the increased flow is a recognition of the various structural reforms initiated by the government, which is expected to yield results in coming years. Even if there is a slowdown, the growth is still better than others. After a long time, both equity and debt are looking equally attractive and I dont see any sudden reversal in flows though intermittent profit booking cant be ruled out, said Swarup Mohanty, CEO of Mirrae Asset Management Company.

According to a recent report by Morningstar India, the India focussed offshore funds, which are typically long term in nature, are seeing higher inflows than India focussed Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) considered to be short-term in nature.

Till May, the India focussed offshore funds have raked in $2.7 billion when compared to net inflow of $895 million in India focussed ETFs suggesting that the fresh flows coming to India are long term money.
Robert De Niro invited veteran actor Anupam Kher for lunch on Fathers Day.

Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro invited veteran actor Anupam Kher for lunch on Fathers Day at his house in New York. Anupam shared a photo with Robert on his Twitter account. Kher, 62, is currently in New York for the premiere of his international movie The Big Sick.

When #GodOfActing #RobertDeNiro invites you for lunch on #FathersDay to his house, you cant eat, because your heart is in your mouth, Kher wrote alongside a picture in which he is sitting next to De Niro.

In another post, Kher said, And when #GodOfActing #RobertDeNiro takes a pic where he is doing the same gesture that you are doing, it is time to faint. What an HONOUR. Well do we see these two talented men coming together for a film, after Silver Linings Playbook? Lets wait and watch.
Shah said Ram Nath Kovinds name was decided upon after consultations with Oppn leaders, including Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

BJP President Amit Shah (left) at the media briefing after BJP meet, and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind. (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

New Delhi: Addressing the media after the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) parliamentary body meet, party chief Amit Shah on Monday said that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind will be NDAs presidential candidate.

Shah further said that Kovinds name was decided upon after consultations with Opposition leaders, including Congress president Sonia Gandhi and ex-prime minister Manmohan Singh.

PM has personally spoken to Sonia Gandhi ji, Manmohan Singh ji and everyone has been informed about the decision, he added.

Kovind is a Dalit leader who has been Bihars governor for three years, since the beginning of Modis tenure. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Kovind has been elected as a Rajya Sabha MP twice, in 1994 and 2000. He is likely to file his papers on June 23, BJP President Amit Shah said after a nearly 2-hour meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Board.

Notably, if elected Kovind will be the second Dalit president after KR Narayanan.

However, the BJP chief said that they were yet to decide on a name for the post of vice-president.

The BJP Parliamentary Board's met to decide the presidential candidate at party headquarters with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders present.

The Board members were briefed about the consultation undertaken by a three-member party committee with allies and opposition parties.

The committee members include Union ministers Rajnath Singh, M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley, who are also the members of the Board.
The GJM is an ally of the BJP; it was with the help of the GJM that the saffron party won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat twice in 2009, '14.

Darjeeling: The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) on Monday expressed its displeasure with the Centre and questioned the absence of Darjeeling BJP MP S S Ahluwalia at the time of crisis.

"The role of alliance partner the BJP is very unfortunate and very disappointing. We had expected something positive from the Central government.

"We feel that we are being used as pawns by the Centre and the state," Darjeeling MLA and senior GJM leader Amar Singh Rai said.

The GJM is an ally of the BJP and it was with the help of the GJM that the saffron party won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat twice in 2009 and 2014.

"We are ready to sit with the Centre anytime. But with the state, the condition would be that they withdraw all forces and allow normalcy to return as a confidence building measure. And we will sit for dialogue with Gorkhaland as the sole agenda," Rai said.

Read: Arson in Kalimpong, GJM leaders march with bodies of 2 supporters

Questioning the absence of local BJP MP S S Ahluwalia, Rai said it was very unfortunate that he chose to stay away from his own constituency during this hour of crisis.

"Where is Mr Ahluwalia? The MP should have been in Darjeeling, everyone feels the same. He should have been here in this hour of crisis. We are very disappointed with him," Rai said.
The infant's father said, the hospital staff had declared the baby dead, sealed the body in a pack and handed it over to them for burial.

New Delhi: In a shocking case of negligence, a newborn was allegedly declared dead by the staff of a central government hospital on Sunday but was found to be alive just before the infant was to be buried.

A police officer had earlier said the baby died but later claimed that there was another case in the hospital and that it was a case of mistaken identity.

The baby is alive, the officer, who did not want to be named, said. The incident occurred at Safdarjung Hospital when a resident of Badarpur delivered a baby this morning.

The nursing staff apparently failed to find any sign of breathing.

"The doctor and the nursing staff declared the baby dead and sealed the body in a pack, labelled it and handed it over to us for burial," said Rohit, the father of the child.

As the mother's condition was not stable, she remained in the hospital while the father and other family members took the body and went home, making preparations for the burial.

But then Rohit's sister suddenly felt some movement in the pack and when they opened it, they found the baby breathing and moving its limbs.

Immediately a PCR call was made and the baby was rushed to Apollo Hospital from where it was shifted to Safdarjung.

The shocked parents have approached the police regarding the case. "How can they be so irresponsible and declare a baby, who is alive, as dead? If we had not opened the sealed pack in time, my baby really would have died and we would never have come to know the truth. This is a gross negligence on part of the hospital and the guilty should be punished," Rohit said.

Safdarjung Hospital authorities have ordered an inquiry into the matter.

"The woman had delivered a baby 22-weeks-old premature baby. As per WHO guidelines, babies born before 22 weeks and weighing less than 500 gms do not survive and are not considered as deliveries. The baby was motionless without any cry or respiration after birth. We have ordered an inquiry to find out whether it was checked properly if the baby was alive or not before being declared dead and handed over to his parents," said A K Rai, Medical Superintendent at Safdarjung Hospital.

According to another doctor, such babies are kept under observation for about an hour before being declared dead.
The GJM denied its involvement in the Kalimpong violence alleging these were a handiwork of the TMC to malign its party.

Activists of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha take out a funeral procession with the bodies of their three activists who were killed on Saturday in Darjeeling. (AP Photo)

Darjeeling/New Delhi: A public library, two panchayat offices and a police vehicle were set ablaze at Kalimpong on Sunday, though Darjeeling, the hub of the GJM-led agitation for a separate Gorkhaland, remained incident-free.

Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) activists took out a protest march carrying the bodies of two party supporters who, they alleged, were killed in police firing on Saturday.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the second time in two days and appealed to the protesters not to resort to violence and come forward for a dialogue to resolve any issue.

The police said that a library, two panchayat offices and a police vehicle were set on fire in Kalimpong in the afternoon as the indefinite shutdown call given by the GJM to press for a separate state had entered its seventh day.

The GJM, however, denied its involvement in the incidents and alleged that these were a handiwork of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to malign it. The party has claimed that three of its activists were killed on Saturday.

The protesters, carrying black flags and the tricolour, assembled at Chowkbazar. They shouted slogans in support of Gorkhaland and demanded that the police and security personnel be removed immediately from Darjeeling.

Carrying bodies of the two supporters in a hearse with GJM flags and posters terming them as martyrs of Gorkhaland, thousands of locals, including GJM activists, shouted slogans like police, go back.

Despite the GJM's claim, ADG (law and order) Anuj Sharma had on Saturday denied the allegation of police firing. He had, however, said that one person had died on Saturday, but did not specify the cause of his death.

Thirty-five security personnel, including an India Reserve Battalion officer, were injured during widespread clashes between GJM activists and the police on Saturday.

There was a massive deployment of police and paramilitary personnel, but they didn't stop the GJM from taking out the march with the bodies. Internet services have been blocked in Darjeeling since 9 am. According to police sources, the step was taken to stop the GJM activists from using social media to spread messages and provocative posts.

The GJM gave a call for a 12-hour bandh, but it failed to evoke much response. Army contingents were present in Darjeeling in the morning, but later a heavy deployment of paramilitary and police force personnel was made.

The Muslim community also took out a rally demanding restoration of peace in the hills and creation of Gorkhaland. Darjeeling MLA Amar Singh Rai criticised the TMC government in the state, saying the situation could have been prevented from going out of control.

"The police and the security forces should immediately be removed from the hills as a confidence-building measure," Rai said. He also accused the BJP-led government at the Centre for not doing enough, despite Darjeeling having an MLA from the saffron party.

"The central and the state governments are using us as pawns to serve their own political interests. We are ready for talks with the Centre, but the agenda has to be only Gorkhaland," Rai said.

Rajnath Singh said resorting to violence would never help them find a solution and asked the people in the hills to remain calm and peaceful.

"All parties concerned and stakeholders should resolve their differences and misunderstandings through dialogue in an amicable environment," the home minister said.

In a democracy like India, resorting to violence would never lead to a solution, he said, emphasising that "every issue can be resolved through dialogue". "I appeal to the people living in Darjeeling and nearby areas to remain calm and peaceful. Nobody should resort to violence," he said in a series of tweets.

During his conversation with the chief minister, Singh discussed the situation prevailing in the hills. "She (Banerjee) has apprised me of the situation prevailing in Darjeeling," he said.

GJM workers, who launched their agitation on June eight, had on Saturday hurled petrol bombs, stones and bottles at the police at several places which led the security forces to lob teargas shells and resort to baton-charge to disperse the mobs, according to a police official.

Army contingents were deployed to control the situation and they staged flag marches in several areas of the violence-hit hill areas, including Darjeeling and Kurseong. Singmari in Darjeeling had turned into a battleground as GJM activists clashed with the anti-riot police personnel, who fired teargas shells and lathi-charged the agitators.
A similar cargo flight from Delhi to Kabul had earlier carried 100 tonnes of cargo on June 18, 2017 from Delhi to Kabul.

New Delhi: The first cargo flight of the Afghanistan-India air freight corridor carrying Afghan goods to India landed in New Delhi on Monday night.

The cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi establishing first air freight corridor was received here today by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Ganapati Raju, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar and the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India Shaida Abdali.

The arrival of the cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi marked the inauguration of the dedicated air freight corridor between the two countries.

The Kabul to Delhi flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly 'hing') from Afghanistan, was flagged off in Kabul by President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet Ministers and India's Ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

A similar cargo flight from Delhi to Kabul had earlier carried 100 tonnes of cargo (mainly pharmaceuticals, water purifiers, medical equipments) on June 18, 2017 from Delhi to Kabul.

"The connectivity established through the air freight corridor will provide Afghanistan, a landlocked country, greater access to markets in India, and will allow Afghan businessmen to leverage India's economic growth and trade networks for its benefit. It would enable Afghan farmers quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce," said Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary, (PAI-Pakistan, Afghanistan, India) in the Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi.

"This flight has added another chapter to the connectivity that has existed since times immemorial. We hope to extend air cargo flights to other cities between India and Afghanistan," said Gopal Bagley, spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs.

The decision to establish an Air Freight Corridor between Afghanistan and India was taken in the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ashraf Ghani in September 2016 during the President Ghani's visit to India.

"During his visit to India in September 2016, President Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businessmen to achieve a target of USD 10 billion in trade over the next five years," said Dr. Mittal.

"Keeping with President Ghani's vision, we have eased our visa regime for Afghan businesspersons. Also, we have increased the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year. Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals," Mittal further said.

"India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country," Mittal added.

Earlier, in January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan Trucks to enter the Indian Territory through Atari land check post for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan. India is also cooperating with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chabahar Port.

Later on in May 2016, a trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed in the presence of the leaders of the three countries in Tehran.

"These routes and corridors are aimed at providing sea, land and air access route for Afghanistan to regional and global markets in South Asia and beyond," Mittal added.

"Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, articles of apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibers, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee/tea/meat and spices," said Shaida Abdali, the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India.

"This is just the beginning .We are optimistic for further adding to the volume of trade between the two countries .We will be expanding to flights other provinces like Kandahar, Heart and Mazar-e-Sharif," Abdali added.

Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious and semi-precious stones, etc.

"India remains committed to assist Afghanistan in all possible ways in its political, security and economic transitions to ensure emergence of a sovereign, united, democratic, pluralistic, stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan," said Bagley.
The film, which stars the likes of Anupam Kher and Neil Nitin Mukesh among others, is slated for release in the last week of July.

New Delhi: An upcoming film by director Madhur Bhandarkar has triggered sharp reaction from the Congress, which claimed that the movie titled Indu Sarkaar falsely depicts events during the period of Emergency inder the regime of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

The film, which stars the likes of Anupam Kher and Neil Nitin Mukesh among others, is slated for release in the last week of July. Congress spokesperson Jyotiraditya Scindia said that the Congress would oppose the film with its full might as it gives a false depiction of events and is a motivated film.

Mr Bhandarkar dismissed the Congress charges and described their opposition to the film as a joke, challenging the party to prove the allegations.

In his attack, Mr Scindia said, We all know that it is a motivated project, we all know who all and which organisations are behind this film. Cleary hinting that the film is an endeavor of saffron organisations to target the Congress and the legacy of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The Congress has accused the present BJP-led NDA government of diminishing the legacy of Congress leaders who were Prime Ministers. In the official trailer of the film, the protagonists have striking resemblance to Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi.

Mr Bhandarkar, speaking to this newspaper, said, The Emergency is a documented fact... In my film, I have only documented facts from books and the Shah Commission report. The film is about 70 per cent fiction with 30 per cent backdrop of the Emergency.

On being asked whether former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and her son Sanjay Gandhi figure in the film he said  I wont reveal that now you watch the film first.

Also the director of the film Madhur Bhandarkar and actor Anupam Kher are perceived to be pro the ruling establishment by the Congress. Anupam Kher had also led a Tolerance march to the Rashtrapati Bhawan in November 2015. The march came at a time when many were complaining against the rising intolerance in the country.
Initiative aimed to promote exchange of new ideas, interactions.

New Delhi: Has India still not given up on the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) despite its virtual paralysis on the account of Pakistans support to terror?

Despite New Delhi and a few other south Asian nations boycotting the then proposed Saarc Summit that had to be held in Islamabad in 2016, India is apparently planning to organise a meet of startups of the South Asian region for an exchange of new ideas and promoting interaction among them.

Commerce and industry minister Nirmala Sitharaman was quoted by news agencies on Monday as saying, I will be working towards having a Saarc country meet for startups. There are so many complementarities among us in the South Asian region. She said the event can act as a platform for exchanging, which can be mutually beneficial and can be worked out.

She asked startups to give ideas about the people who can be invited for the meet. The Saarc nation members include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Smaller Saarc countries like Sri Lanka have openly expressed concerned in the past few months about the virtual comatose state of Saarc, with Colombo saying last year that it may look for other options in case things dont change.

But Pakistan is adamant that the next Saarc summit should be held in Islamabad, after the proposed summit there was cancelled last year.
V.K. Singhs remarks seen as veiled message to China.

New Delhi: In a strong, yet veiled, message to China, visiting minister of state for external affairs V.K. Singh said in Beijing on Monday that terrorists cannot be differentiated as good or bad. India has been miffed with China for opposing UN sanctions on Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar. The comments were made at the Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) foreign ministers meet in Beijing where Mr Singh represented India.

On behalf of India, he pointed out that terrorism remains one of the most potent global menace and threatens global peace. He stressed that terrorists cannot be differentiated as good or bad. They are terrorists, they are criminals and we need to have concerted actions both regionally and internationally to curb their activities. He informed that among BRICS, there is a strong consensus that all terrorism must be condemned. He mentioned about the call for the expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Conven-tion on International Terrorism at the United Nations and informed that on this issue, we have the support of all the Brics countries... He said that all Brics countries agreed that Terrorism is the common enemy of humankind and concerned with spread of terrorism in its various forms and manifestations, The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, adding, MOS (V.K. Singh) congratulated China on the successful convening of the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting. He discussed a range of issues candidly and how to take the agenda of the Brics forward. He also discussed a range of practical measures that have been taken over a period of time at the various Summits...

He mentioned that he is very confident that under the Chinese Presidency, work will be done to take the agenda forward.
The other NDA constituents have pledged their support to Mr Kovind.

New Delhi: Playing the dalit card, the BJP on Monday named Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential candidate. A surprise pick, Mr Kovind could be the first President hailing from Uttar Pradesh, a state with the largest number of MPs and the highest number of Assembly constituencies. Mr Kovinds name was also seen as part of the BJPs gameplan for the crucial 2019 elections and a message to the dalit community, that is both electorally significant and numerically dominant.

The Opposition parties have, meanwhile, called a meeting on Thursday to take a final call on whether or not to fight the election, with the Congress, CPI(M) and Trinamul Congress calling Mr Kovinds choice a unilateral decision by the BJP. The BJP-led NDA, however, seems to be in a comfortable position in the electoral college as some non-NDA outfits, including the Biju Janata Dal, TRS and YSRCP, have pledged support to its candidate. The BJP also hopes that Tamil Nadus ruling AIADMK will also back its choice. The electoral college appears to be tilted toward the NDA despite ally Shiv Sena continuing the suspense over whether or not it would support Mr Kovind.

After Mr Kovinds name was officially announced by BJP president Amit Shah after the partys parliamentary board meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also attended the meeting, tweeted: Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmers son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service and worked for the poor and marginalised... With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovinds knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation... I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised. Mr Modi himself called Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and several chief ministers, including Bihars Nitish Kumar, Andhra CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, Odishas Naveen Patnaik and Tamil Nadus E. Palaniswami to seek their support for the NDA candidate.

Also, that the NDA nominee could dent the Opposition blocs unity was evident with JD(U) president and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar expressing his personal happiness over the NDA nominee, but he didnt commit his partys support to his candidature. Mr Kumar shares a good rapport with Mr Kovind as the states governor.

Stopping short of expressing her partys support to Mr Kovind, BSP supremo Mayawati said her party could not be negative to a dalit candidate. Dalits are a major votebank in both UP and Bihar, and the BSPs core base. However, the BJPs own ally Shiv Sena continued the suspense over whether or not it would support Mr Kovind when Sena supremo Uddhav Thackeray said that a dalit face for the presidential elections is being used just for dalit votes. The Sena never does caste-based politics.

The Sena said it would declare its stand on the matter on Tuesday. The other NDA constituents have pledged their support to Mr Kovind.

Interestingly, Naveen Patnaiks BJD joined ranks with Jagan Mohan Reddys YSRCP and K. Chandrasekhar Raos TRS to support the NDA nominee. The three non-NDA outfits had kept away from the deliberations of the Opposition bloc on the presidential election.

Mr Kovind reached New Delhi on Monday evening and is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his first reaction, the NDA presidential nominee said: Its a duty, lets take it as such.

Announcing the NDA presidential nominee at the party headquarters, Mr Shah said: He was born in a poor family, comes from the dalit community and has long struggled for the rights of the weaker sections. He has always been associated with the poor, backwards and dalits... I am hopeful that there will be a consensus on his name.

Expressing her partys reservation on the NDA nominee, Trinamul supremo Mamata Banerjee said Mr Kovind was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJPs Dalit Morcha in the past. The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L.K.) Advaniji could have been made the candidate, Ms Banerjee said. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the BJP had unilaterally selected Mr Kovind and the non-NDA parties would take a decision keeping in mind the countrys history that the ruling and Opposition parties have contested the polls on all occasions, except once.

The BSPs Mayawati said though Mr Kovind has been associated with the RSS and BJP from the beginning, since he is a dalit, our partys stand towards him cannot be negative. It will be positive, provided the Opposition parties do not field any dalit for the post who is more capable and popular than him.
While keeping old practices alive, Kashmiris also embrace change.

A couple of hours ahead of the pre-dawn meal, suhor, eaten before the start of prayer, people called Sehar Khawans walk though dark streets beating drums and shouting Wakhta-e-Sehar (It is time to wake up for suhor). (Photo: Asian Age)

Srinagar: Celebrations and community iftars and prayers galore as Ramzan is observed in Kashmir. Significantly, the people who become part of the activity associated with the fasting month not only preserve the traditions but also try to take them forward.

Before beginning the day-long fast, the faithful prefer to take traditional food and beverages in Sehri or Suhor, the pre-dawn meal eaten before the Fajr prayer (the first of the five daily prayers). These include a plate or toor (bowl) of plain white rice and mutton or vegetable curry or both with yoghurt and pickles. The most favourite brewage which is served before the dawn breaks up is Kashmiri nun chai (pink salt tea) with fresh plain or ghee soaked bread bought from the bakery.

The course is repeated at iftar when Muslims end their daily Ramazan fast at sunset. But most of the people prefer to break the fast by taking a couple of dates and there are many varieties of the fruit, including those imported from West Asia, is available in the market. Traditionally, dates are known as the food Prophet Muhammad ate when he broke his fast.

However, with changing lifestyles and economic prosperity, dastar khawan, the tablecloth that serves as traditional space where food is eaten, has now on it also fruit juices, cutlets, fried snacks and much more in many Kashmiri homes. The Iftar menu at mosques and other community gatherings has become more varied and tangy. Yet, for an average resident, fereni, the Persian pudding dessert which is served cold, is the best affordable substitute for these. In the evenings, mosques are filled with devotees to offer Taraweh, the special Ramzan prayers which are offered in pairs of two after Isha namaz or the fifth and last prayer of the day and can be prayed in, at least, eight or twenty rakaat, according to the Hanafi and Shafii schools of Sunni Islam. A break is taken after every 4(2+2) rakaat.

Though being a predominantly Muslim region, Kashmir remains a confluence of many cultures, religions and ethnic groups, a place where a rich and rare tapestry of civilisations has been woven over the years. While most traditions of the Ramzan fast and the Iftar meal continue, one that has had to adapt in the restive Valley is that of the Sehar Khawani or Suhor Khawani. A couple of hours before Sehri, Sehar Khawans walk though dark alleys and streets beating drums and shouting Wakhta-e-Sehar (It is time to wake up for suhor).

Sehar Khawans are mainly labourers or impecunious people from rural Kashmir who move to Srinagar and other major towns to take up the self-appointed job. Previously, a Sehar Khawan used to loudly recite verses from the Quran, Naat or praise for the Prophet Muhammad and other speeches explaining the importance of fasting. He would be in traditional Kashmiri attire and besides beating a drum might blow a sheep horn pipe, the practice called nalla-e-hyder. Since few in a locality owned a watch or alarm clock, the Sehar Khawans were in great demand during Ramzan.

But with security forces present in almost every nook and corner of the Valley today, the Sehar Khawans move from one locality to the other under the shadow of guns to serve the people. Yet for the most part, the security forces are aware of the Ramzan tradition and do not trouble them, said Mushtaq Ahmed Sheikh, who performs his Sehar Khawani obligation in Gaw Kadal area of Srinagar.

He is among very few in the tribe who still use a sheep horn pipe which, he claims, was brought to Kashmir by his grandfather  himself a Sehar Khawan  from Karachi in pre-Partition days.

Many people who work as chowkidars or watchmen or as hammamis (men hired during winter to warm up traditional corral in a mosques bathrooms) also act as Sehar Kawans not just to earn their livelihood but also to serve Islam and the people. Others are mainly those who migrate to Srinagar and other towns during Ramzan to take up the job. The residents do not allow the work of the Sehar Khawans to go unrewarded. In fact, at a time when vast majority of Kashmirs Muslims own alarm clocks and watches, and when even mobile phones have alarms, it is mainly because residents allow the tradition to continue that Sehar Khawans have work at all.

A couple of days before Id-ul Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramzan, each Sehar Khawan visits each house in the locality he may have served to receive offerings of cash or rice, fresh and dry fruits and vegetables, and pulses. Some women even dedicate their precious belongings, including jewellery, for a Sehar Khawan. The well-off give them gifts such as kamiz-salwar suits and pairs of shoes.
Having paid only Rs 790.18 crores out of Rs 1,500 crore, Mr Roy had sought 10 days time to pay the remaining Rs 709.82 crore.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday granted Sahara chairman Subrata Roy time till July 4 to pay the remaining Rs 700 crore, out of the Rs 1,500 crore that he had agreed to pay by June 15. On April 27, Mr Roy had given two post-dated cheques to SEBI for Rs 1,500 crore to be encashed by June 15 and Rs 552 crore to be encashed on July 15.

Having paid only Rs 790.18 crores out of Rs 1,500 crore, Mr Roy had sought 10 days time to pay the remaining Rs 709.82 crore. A bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi accepted the plea, but warned him that he could be sent to jail on the next date of hearing on July 5 if he is unable to deposit the amount.

Senior counsel Kapil Sibal, appearing for Mr Roy, informed the court that Sahara was able to sell its hotel in London, and an amount of Rs 690 crore was awaited from the buyer who wants 10 days time to deposit the amount to the Sahara-SEBI Refund account. He also informed the court that a buyer had agreed to but 87.04 acres of land in Haridwar for Rs 109 crore, which is 38 per cent less than the guideline value and approval from court was needed.

The Bench said it cant allow a property to be sold less than the guideline value and asked SEBI to e-auction the property and said the sale price should not be less than 90 per cent of the guideline value or circle rate.

With Sahara failing to deposit Rs. 5,100 crores, the Supreme Court on April 17 had appointed official liquidator of the Bombay High Court to auction the Amby Valley project near Pune in Maharashtra to realise the dues from Sahara chief Subrata Roy, who is now on parole. During the resumed hearing the official liquidator submitted a report indicating the value of the properties at Rs. 37,392 crores and how he is going to sell them. A schedule of terms and conditions was placed on record for court approval. The Bench had earlier asked the official liquidator to fixe the reserved price for the purpose of auction at Rs.37,392 Crores. The becnh posted the matter for further hearing on July 5.
Plans several protests across states against Centre.

New Delhi: While Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi is travelling abroad to meet his grandmother the Congress is going all out to woo farmers. In a bid to cash in on the agrarian crisis, the party is organising farmer rallies in the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

Uttar Pradesh unit chief of Congress Raj Babbar said, There are 75 districts in the state and we will be travelling to each district to lend supports to farmers in the time of crisis. Rahulji has instructed us to raise the issue of farmers suffering.

Even after the announcement of the farm loan waiver by the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh, the Congress feels that the condition of farmers has not improved. Hence, the party leaders want stand with the farmers and organise agitations as a build up to the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

In Madhya Pradesh, Lok Sabha MPs Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindhia are already on the ground taking on the state government. Mr Nath is also engaging with the farmers organisations working at the grass-root level in the state. Since the NDA had promised production cost plus 50% as minimum support price (MSP) to farmers, but the same is not being met. The Congress also alleges that the state procurement agencies are working hand in glove with private players and the farmers are not even getting their MSP.

In Rajasthan, state unit chief Sachin Pilot is already addressing several rallies against the state government. According to the Congress, since the BJP government came to power in the state there have been almost 91 cases of farmer suicides.

Former chief minister and AICC general secretary Ashok Gehlot is also addressing rallies across the state in a bid to put pressure on the BJP government. Since Gujarat is a bordering state to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the Congress also hopes to galvanise the farmers support against the BJP government.

The thinking in the Congress is that while the BJP is capturing the airwaves and prime time it should be seen standing with the farmer at the grass-root level. The momentum will only increase as the Monsoon Session of Parliament nears.

The Congress is also planning to work closely with other Opposition parties to corner the government on farmers issues in the Monsoon Session.
Emergency services are seen near Finsbury Park as British police say there are casualties after reports of a vehicle colliding with pedestrians in North London, Britain June 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - One person was killed and 10 others injured on Monday when a van collided with pedestrians near a North London mosque in an incident which is being investigated by counter terrorism officers, police said.

"One man was pronounced dead at the scene," the Metropolitan police said in a statement.

Police said eight people had been taken to three separate hospitals and two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

A 48-year old van driver, who was detained by members of public at the scene and then arrested by police, has been taken to hospital and will be subject to a mental health assessment.

The Muslim Council of Britain said the vehicle hit people as they were leaving the Finsbury Park Mosque, one of Britain's largest. The attack comes during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when people attend prayers at night.

Police said they were called just after 12:20 am (2320 GMTSunday) to reports of a collision on Seven Sisters Road, which runs through the Finsbury Park area of the city. They said there were a number of casualties and one person had been arrested.

"From the window, I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching, a lot of chaos outside. Everybody was shouting: 'Avan's hit people, a van's hit people'," one woman who lives opposite the scene told the BBC.

"There was this white van stopped outside Finsbury Parkmosque that seemed to have hit people who were coming out after prayers had finished. I didn't see the attacker himself,although he seems to have been arrested, but I did see the van."

A man leapt out of the van and stabbed at least one person,the Evening Standard newspaper said, citing witnesses. Reuters could not immediately confirm that report.

The incident follows a series of attacks in Britain inrecent months blamed on Islamist militants, the latest just over two weeks ago in which three men drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and stabbed people at nearby restaurants and bars, killing eight.

One witness told CNN it was clear that the attacker at Finsbury Park had deliberately targeted Muslims.

"He tried to kill a lot of people so obviously it's aterrorist attack. He targeted Muslims this time," the witness,identified only as Rayan, said.

Other witnesses told Sky television that the van had hit atleast 10 people.
Mass exodus from Congress, BJD to join BJP causes anxiety to Naveen.

Bhubaneswar: Anywhere in the country, the loss of the Congress vote share has very often benefited the BJP. It was also happening so in Odisha for nearly two decades, bringing cheers to the ruling BJD leaders. But things are changing fast now in the state  the same Congress loss is turning to be a major headache for the regional party.

The Congress voters are no longer shifting their allegiance to the BJD.

Instead, they are seen preferring to jump to the BJP bandwagon as the saffron party is making steady progress in the state since 2014.

After the breakup of the BJD-BJP alliance in 2009, it was expected that the Congress would reap rich dividends out of the political turmoil and do better in the Assembly elections. However, surprisingly, the benefit did not go to the party. The grand old partys vote share in 2009 Assembly polls slumped to 29 per cent from 35 per cent in 2004, enabling the BJD to improve its tally from 61 seats to 103 seats in the 147-member state Assembly.

In the 2014 Assembly elections, the Congress fortune further nose-dived to 26 per cent, ensuring a mammoth victory of the BJD despite strong anti-incumbency wind sweeping across the state. The regional outfit led by Naveen Patnaik proved all poll pundits wrong by winning 117 seats.

Post-poll analysis revealed the Congress voters went for BJD following disintegration of the partys state outfit because of recurrent and intense internal bickering among the factional satraps.

As the BJD was predicted to repeat the same electoral successes in the 2017 rural polls, the third largest electoral exercise after the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, the party leaders were taken aback when the ballot boxes were opened and votes were counted. The swing of the Congress voters had this time happened in favour of the BJP.

The message for the BJD president and chief minister Naveen Patnaik was now much loud and clear: The loss of Congress is no longer a gain of BJD.

What has stung Naveen most in recent times is mass exodus of the Congress and BJD leaders to BJP, indicating that BJD no longer enjoys the trust and confidence of the turncoats.

Through its Mishran Parv or joining ceremony, the saffron party has drafted over one hundred Congress leaders, including minority Muslim and Christian leaders, - in the past few weeks, - sending out a message that BJD was no longer the only non-Congress platform. And, in the same vein, the BJP was no longer untouchable and communal for the Congress deserters.

Former BJD MP from Koraput, Jayaram Pangi, former BJD MLA Sidharth Sekhar Singh, former Congress MLA Dologobinda Nayak and former NCP MLA Utkal Keshari Parida are among several top leaders who recently joined BJP.

The mass exodus of Congress leaders, as senior BJP leaders like Dharmendra Pradhan, Jual Oram and Basanta Panda claim, will continue, - it is expected Naveens worry will only further aggravate.

Left with little or limited opportunity to salvage the partys fortune, the BJD has now pressed the panic button asking all its leaders, both at the state and grassroots levels, - to fan out across the nook and corner of the state and listen to peoples grievances so as to preempt further avalanche in its fortune.
Presently, there are four camps operating within the Gujarat Congress.

New Delhi: Trouble brewing for Congress in the poll-bound state of Gujarat. Insiders claim that former chief minister and senior leader Shankarsinh Vaghela is on his way out from the party. Mr Vaghela is miffed with the Congress after the high command repeatedly turned down his request to name him as the chief ministerial face of the party.

In a bid to show his displeasure, Mr Vaghela had earlier unfollwed Twitter handles of party leaders, including party vice-president Rahul Gandhi. Also, he went on a week-long leave when the Congress was holding rallies across the state in the last week of May. Efforts made to pacify the sulking leader by general secretary in-charge of Gujarat Ashok Gehlot and state unit chief Bharatsinh Solanki has failed to yield results so far.

Mr Vaghelas appearances at Congress functions are becoming erratic by the day. Out of the 57 Congress MLAs in Gujarat he enjoys the goodwill and confidence of a sizeable number of leaders.

Many in the Congress feel that Mr Vaghela may not ensure Congress victory in the polls but are certain of the fact that his exit will ensure the partys defeat. Presently, there are four camps operating within the Gujarat Congress. These are the Vaghela camp, state unit chief Bharatsinh Solanki camp, Arjun Modhwadia camp and the Shaktisinh Gohil camp. Among these four camps, the Congress high command is inclined to go with the state unit chief Solanki camp. However, the Congress wants to contest the Assembly election, which scheduled to take place this December, under a collective leadership.

Mr Vaghela was in Delhi in the first week of June to meet the party leadership. He met senior leaders, including Mr Gandhi. After the meetings, Mr Vaghela said that presently he is in the Congress and he will be visiting Delhi again soon.

Speculations are also rife that Mr. Vaghela is in talks with his former party the BJP which is denied by him. The Congress if it wants to keep Mr. Vaghela in its fold will have to move fast to contain the situation. Sources indicate that Mr. Vaghela has almost made up his mind to quit and the public announcement along with a resignation letter can come anytime if a rapprochement is not done soon.
Scindia also reiterated the demand to register an FIR against police officer

New Delhi: The Congress on Monday attacked the Centre and the Shivraj Singh Chauhan dispensation in Madhya Pradesh over farmers stir, saying the Narendra Modi government wants a 'Kisan mukt bharat' (India free of farmers).

Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said the BJP rode to power in 2014 promising to give farmers a price for their yield which would be 50 per cent more than the production cost.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP), however, has been witnessing a decline, he said.

Scindia, targeting the Madhya Pradesh chief minister over the dead of five farmers in police firing during their protests in Mandsaur, questioned his "reluctance" behind not waiving the loans of the farmers of the state when its neighbours, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, had announced it.

He also reiterated the demand to register an FIR against police officer "guilty of murdering" six farmers in Mandsaur.

Scindia, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, also questioned the Centre's reluctance to not support the states to waive loans of farmers when they can write-off debts of the "corporates".

He said by "abdicating" itself from this responsibility, the Modi government was becoming a "mute spectator" at the time when farmers were committing suicide.

"The BJP government came to power in 2014 by promising to give 50 per cent as against the cost incurred during the production of the yield. But the MSP for crops is not increasing.

"This is because there is a gap between assurances and acts of the government. This is an anti-farmers government who wants a 'kisan mukt bharat' (farmers free India)," the Congress leader told a press conference here.

He claimed that the MSP rose by 150 per cent from 2004- 2013 while the MSP has not increased even by 12 per cent in the first three years of the Modi government.

"In the last three-years of the UPA rule, agriculture sector grew by 4 per cent while in the first three-years of the NDA rule, it has snailed by only 1.7 per cent."

The Congress leader, however, parried questions on whether Congress government in Karnataka, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh would also come up with a loan waiver plan.
Seven other persons were earlier arrested in connection with the case.

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha police on Monday arrested two more persons, including BJD leader Bhisma Mohanty, for allegedly pelting eggs at Union minister Jual Oram during his recent visit to Aul in Kendrapara district.

Seven other persons were earlier arrested in connection with the case. The police action came after Mr Oram on June 16 wrote to Union home minister Rajnath Singh, urging him to intervene and put pressure on the state government to bring the culprits to book.

Blaming police failure for the incident and terming the attack a condemnable act, Mr Oram had said in the letter that locals goons of ruling Biju Janata Dal were involved in it.

He also alleged very poor security arrangements during his June 14 visit to Kendrapara even as the tour programme was sent to the district police in advance.

It is the responsibility of the state government to provide foolproof security to the visiting Union ministers attending functions in the state. But, it seems that the Odisha has failed miserably in performing their duty with due diligence, thereby giving scope to some criminal elements to display this kind of undemocratic behaviour, which is not only highly objectionable, but also against the spirit of democratic protest, Mr Jual had cited in the letter.

Four days before the attack on Mr Oram, Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh had met with a similar fate in state capital Bhubaneswar. The Youth Congress activists pelted at eggs at him while he was going to attend an official programme.

These types of incidents in increasing number expose lack of seriousness on part of the administration resulting in very sloppy and inadequate security arrangements by the state government for the visiting Cabinet ministers, including those who have been targeted by the Naxalite elements in the past, Mr Oram said.
The Opposition camp had earlier planned to field former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi, who is Mahatma Gandhis grandson.

New Delhi: The NDAs presidential candidate, Ram Nath Kovind, has created an uncomfortable situation for the 17-party Opposition conglomerate and forced it to rethink its strategy. The Opposition was in a tizzy on Monday, trying to find and field a dalit candidate to counter the ruling partys nominee. The names doing the rounds are of former Speaker Meira Kumar and B.R. Ambedkars grandson Prakash Ambedkar. Sources said that a tribal candidate was also being mulled.

The Opposition camp had earlier planned to field former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi, who is Mahatma Gandhis grandson.

The rethink is necessary as at least two parties  the Janata Dal (United) and BSP chief Mayawati  have indicated that they would find it difficult to oppose a dalit candidate.

Ms Mayawati said that her party could not be negative to a dalit candidate, but she stopped short of expressing support for Mr Kovind, saying her party would be positive only if the Opposition did not field a dalit candidate.

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar rushed to meet Mr Kovind, who is the Governor of his state, and maintained that he was suitable candidate for the post.

As soon as Mr Kovinds candidature was announced by the BJP, the Congress was the first to react, saying that the decision had been taken by the BJP unilaterally and that they had not been consulted.

Though information and broadcasting minister M. Venkaiah Naidu and home minister Rajnath Singh had met Congress president Sonia Gandhi last week, they had not discussed any names. They had merely asked Mrs Gandhi for her partys support for the presidential elections.

We had expected that before taking a final decision, they would have spoken with us, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, and added that a decision on the matter would be taken by all the Opposition parties together in the next meeting on June 22. The meeting will be chaired by Mrs Gandhi and attended by all the top Opposition leaders. Mr Azad had termed the BJPs attempt at outreach as a formality and a PR exercise.

Though the Congress is keen to field Ms Kumar, there were differences among Opposition parties on her candidature as many parties, like the CPI(M), Trinamool Congress and AAP, do not want to back a hardcore Congress candidate due to their regional compulsions.

Apart from being a dalit and a woman, Ms Kumar is also the daughter of late dalit icon, Babu Jagjivan Ram. A Congress leader for 40 years, he later joined the Janata Party and served as the deputy Prime Minister from 1977-1979.

Though AAP is not part of 17-party Opposition conglomerate, it has pledged its support for the Oppositions candidate.

Mr Kovind is a dalit from Uttar Pradesh and his nomination is being seen as a message from the BJP to the dalit community in the Hindi heartland, specifically UP, which is crucial for a poll victory in the 2019 general elections. Thus, it is with on her mind that Ms Mayawati will take a decision on her support for Mr Kovind.

In Delhi, JD(U) national spokesperson K.C. Tyagi said that the NDAs choice had put his party in an uncomfortable position. However, he reiterated that his party was all for Opposition unity.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee was more specific, saying that though she did not have anything against Mr Kovind, she had expected a person of the stature of Sushma Swaraj or L.K. Advani.

I am not for a moment saying that the Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit to be the President. I have spoken to two or three other Opposition leaders, they are also surprised. There are other big dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of malit Morcha of the BJP they have made him the candidate. The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advaniji may have been made the candidate, Ms Banerjee said in a statement.

As far as the Samajwadi Party is concerned, differences persist. SP patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav has expressed support for the NDA and son Akhilesh Yadav is determined to side with the Congress-led Opposition.

Among the fence-sitters, while the Biju Janata Dal has supported Mr Kovinds candidature, NDAs miffed ally Shiv Sena is playing hardball, saying it does not want to get dragged into playing dalit politics.

Sources told this newspaper that it was with an effort to exploit this sentiment that Prakash Ambedkars name was being considered. Besides being B.R. Ambedkars grandson, he is also a Maharashtrian.

Mr Ambedkar is the national leader of a local political party called Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh. He has been a member of the Lok Sabha twice from Akola, Maharashtra.
Researchers demonstrate the potential of the low risk tobacco product to help reduce the impact of tobacco related disease.

Washington: Here's another reason for you to quit smoking, as a study has warned that snus - a type of moist powdered tobacco, typically held in the mouth between the lips and gums- is 95 percent safer than smoking. With the potential to stop 320,000 premature deaths across Europe each year, the researchers demonstrate the potential of the low risk tobacco product, snus, in reducing the impact of tobacco related disease and death in Europe.

The latest evidence was presented by Peter Lee, epidemiologist. Snus researcher Lars Ramstrom in Sweden showed that if snus were made available in Europe - where it is currently banned with the exception of Sweden - then a lot many premature deaths could be avoided among men every year. While 46 percent of deaths due to smoking result from respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pneumonia, there is no evidence that risk of these diseases is increased by using snus.

Nor does snus appear to increase the risk of other smoking related diseases, including heart disease, stroke and a range of cancers. Gerry Stimson, Chair of the NNA stated said that snus is a tobacco product that has consistently been proven to be less harmful to health than cigarettes. The ban on snus limits smokers' choices of safer alternatives and has a significant negative impact on public health.

The tobacco epidemic is one of the biggest public health threats, killing more than seven million people a year. There are currently one billion smokers worldwide, with nearly 80 percent of them living in low and middle income countries, where the burden of tobacco-related illness is greatest, the researchers stated. The research is presented at the 2017 Global Forum on Nicotine in Poland.
The duo, Ashish Kumar and Rakesh Yadav, were travelling together and denied having any idea about the presence of the weapon in their bag.

According to officials, the incident was reported at 10 am when a CISF security personnel, during X-ray screening of the baggage, detected the weapon and the single round ammunition, loaded in the pistol chamber. (Photo: File/Representational)

New Delhi: Two persons were apprehended on Sunday by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at a Delhi Metro station for allegedly carrying a country-made pistol and a bullet in a bag they were travelling with.

Officials said that the incident was reported from the Vaishali station in Ghaziabad at about 10 am when a CISF security personnel, during X-ray screening of the baggage, detected the weapon and the single round ammunition, loaded in the pistol chamber.

The duo, identified as Ashish Kumar and Rakesh Yadav, were travelling together and denied having any idea about the presence of the weapon in the bag, they said.

"When questioned, they said they had no idea about the weapon and the bullet kept in the bag. They have been handed over to the Delhi Police which is investigating the case now," an official said.

Arms and ammunition are banned from being taken inside the Delhi Metro and such instances are punishable under law.
No major political party has approached us for support.

New Delhi: With the race for the presidential poll heating up, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is feeling increasingly isolated as political parties huddle together to select a candidate for the top post.

The party has so far not figured in the ongoing political consultations within the Opposition, or in the talks initiated by a three-member BJP panel.

No major political party has approached us for our support, said a senior AAP leader and a member of the Political Affairs Committee, the partys highest decision making body.

The AAP, which has been busy fighting the Centre while seeking to suppress dissent in the party, has held informal talks on the presidential poll with a few Opposition parties.

Over the past few days, AAP members have had talks with CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, JDUs Sharad Yadav and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee. But with Congress  the main Opposition party  keeping AAP out of the loop, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) said to be distancing itself from Arvind Kejriwals outfit, AAP said it was waiting for the government and the Opposition to make their stands clear on candidates for the highest constitutional post.

There has been no major discussion within the party over the presidential poll. Let us see what the Opposition comes up with, a senior AAP leader said, indicating that it may not go with a candidate suggested by Congress, but may back someone supported by the entire Opposition.

Being in power in Delhi and a principal Opposition party in Punjab, four-year-old AAP has 86 MLAs and four MPs in the Lok Sabha. However, the Congress did not invite the party to a meeting of the Opposition leaders held in May which was widely perceived as a rebuff to the party. Congress does not see AAP as an ally, for the new party in the long run aims at unsettling Congress as a principal Opposition party at the national level as well as in several states. In the past, Mr Kejriwal has often attacked Robert Vadra, the son-in-law of Congress president Sonia Gandhi. The NCP is believed to be ignoring AAP because of chief minister Kejriwals personal attacks on NCP leader Sharad Pawar.
CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry against the AAP minister in connection with the allegations of money laundering in April.

New Delhi: The CBI on Monday went to Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain's residence to seek clarifications from his wife in connection to an ongoing inquiry into allegations of money laundering against him.

CBI sources said the agency had sought time from the minister's wife.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the Central Government of "vendetta politics".

"Central govt (sic) of BJP is misusing CBI for its vendetta politics. After Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, BJP's CBI raids on Minister," the party said in a tweet.

CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry against the AAP minister in connection with the allegations of money laundering in April. He was recently examined by the agency in connection with the probe.

Jain is alleged to be involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, CBI sources said.

Jain had dismissed the allegations after the Enforcement Directorate last month attached properties linked to him in the matter.

A PE is the first step by the CBI to gather information about allegations.

If the agency is convinced that there exists prima facie material in the matter, it may register a regular case against the accused.

Allegations against Jain also include purported money laundering to the tune of Rs 11.78 crore during 2010-12 through these companies and Indometal Impex Pvt Limited.
The one-day old baby was declared dead on Sunday by the central government-run hospital's doctors, but later found alive before burial.

New Delhi: A newborn baby, who was nearly buried alive after wrongly being declared dead by doctors at New Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, breathed his last on Monday, an official said, even as the Union Health Ministry ordered a probe.

The one-day old baby was declared dead on Sunday by the central government-run hospital's doctors and the still child was wrapped in a plastic bag in preparation for the burial.

It was only after relatives decided to take one last look at the baby and the bag was opened that they noticed the newborn's limbs twitching.

He was then immediately shifted to the neo-natal ICU, where it managed to survive for about 30 hours.

"The baby died today at 4.15 pm," Dr AK Rai, the medical superintendent at Safdarjung hospital, said.

The hospital has ordered an inquiry.

Meanwhile, a Union health ministry official said, "We have sought a report in the matter from the hospital. The baby was delivered yesterday by 28-year-old Shanti Devi, a resident of Badarpur, around 5 am."

Failing to find any movement or respiration, hospital staff declared the baby dead, sealed the body in a pack, labelled it and handed it over to the father for burial.

As the mother's condition was not stable, she remained in the hospital while the father and other family members took the body and went home to prepare for burial.

But when the father's sister insisted on seeing the baby's face for one last time, they opened the pack. To their shock and surprise, they found the baby breathing and moving its limbs.

Immediately they called the police and the baby was rushed to Apollo Hospital from where it was shifted to Safdarjung hospital.

"How can they be so irresponsible and declare a baby, who is alive, as dead? If we had not opened the sealed pack in time, my baby really would have died and we would never have come to know the truth. This is gross negligence on the part of the hospital and the guilty should be punished," the father, Rohit, said on Sunday.

Dr Rai said the woman had delivered a 22-week-old premature baby. As per WHO guidelines, babies born before 22 weeks and weighing less than 500 gms are not considered as deliveries and generally do not survive.

The baby was motionless and did not cry or breathe after delivery.

A senior police official said that the complaint will be forwarded to Medical Council of India for fact finding enquiry and legal opinion will also sought to decide what action has to be action.
Najeebs mother Fatima Nafees recently met CBI officers investigating the case.

CBI officials arrive at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus as part of investigations into the case of missing student Najeeb Ahmed in New Delhi on Monday. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: A CBI team on Monday visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to probe the mysterious disappearance of Najeeb Ahmed, a student who had gone missing from his hostel on October 16, 2016.

Sources said the agency sleuths are looking into allegations of a scuffle between Ahmed and ABVP students in JNUs Mahi-Mandvi hostel and the circumstances that may have led to it as well as other events that preceded his disappearance. Najeebs mother Fatima Nafees recently met CBI officers investigating the case.

She gave details of the events before her son disappeared from his hostel.

Najeeb Ahmed (27), a student of School of Biotechnology and a native of Badaun in Uttar Pradesh, went missing on October 16 following an on-campus scuffle allegedly with the members of some other student group.

The high court had transferred the case to the CBI after the Delhi police said it has carried out the investigation in a fair manner searching for Ahmad across India, but came up with zero success. The courts direction came while hearing a habeas corpus plea filed by Ahmads mother that her son be produced by the police and the Delhi government before the court. According to Fatima, Najeeb had returned to the university after holidays on October 13, 2016. In the night of October 15-16, he had called his mother and told her that something wrong has happened to him, the woman had said in her FIR. His room partner Kasim had told Fatima that there was a fight and he was injured, she had said. Next day, she took a bus from Uttar Pradesh Bulandhshahr to meet Najeeb. When she reached Delhi, she spoke to him and asked him to meet at his hostel, Fatima had said. In her complaint, she had said after reaching his room in Mahi Hostel room 106, there was no trace of Najeeb. Since then, there is no trace of Najeeb.
From Jantar Mantar, the transporters marched till Haryana Bhawan to protest against Haryana government against increased road tax by it.

New Delhi: Scores of taxi drivers in the national capital protested on Monday against the destructive politics of cab aggregators Uber and Ola.

Drivers, led by Sarvodaya Drivers Association, protested at Jantar Mantar and said that policies like pool sharing and arbitrary fixing of fares are affecting the livelihood of private taxi drivers and have demanded that the city government fix the fare for Uber and Ola.

The number of Uber and Ola taxis has reached around 35,000. Their registration should be stopped as traffic jams are happening because of them, said Mr Sanjay Samrat, president, Delhi Taxi Tourist Transport Association.

The agitators, who protested without their shirts on, to demonstrate that the impact of the policies have become a question of life and death for them, also demanded that their loans should be waived off by the government on the lines of farmers loans.

From Jantar Mantar, the transporters marched till Haryana Bhawan to protest against Haryana government against increased road tax by it.

They alleged that the road tax for vehicles with All India Permit entering Haryana has been increased by around 1,000 per cent. Earlier, we paid Rs 950 for three months as tax to the regional transport authority. This has been increased to Rs 9,100 now. They have also increased road tax to Rs 100 for four seater cars and Rs 500 for seven seater cars per day effective from April 1, said Mr Samrat.

He added that it has been done to benefit companies like Ola and Uber, which have NCR permits.

The association threatened to go on an indefinite strike and also resort to chakka-jam if the hike is not reversed as passengers are refusing to pay the increased tax.

More than 80,000 cabs and 15,000 trucks are registered under the association.

The protesters have submitted a memorandum to Resident commissioner of Haryana at Haryana Bhawan to reverse the order as it affecting scores of transporters.
Generally the national domestic requirement is about 10 to 12 lakh metric tonnes per month.

The market experts said that onion prices would remain low as the exports to Bangladesh and Pakistan have gone down this year.

Nashik: Onion and vegetable prices dropped by Saturday since the APMC markets opened up in Nashik on June 12 after an 11-day strike. Marketing experts said onion prices would remain low on account of fewer exports to Bangladesh and Pakistan, where the produce goes by road, or due to low domestic requirements.

Chandwad APMC chairman Dr Atmaram Kumbharde stated that excess onions are exported after domestic requirements are met.

However, road exports to Bangladesh and Pakistan have become stringent and exports are down in these regions, causing abundance in the local market, which has affected the price. Secondly, this was the onion kept in the open, which is being sold. There is a huge stock of onion stored in the countryside which will suffice till Diwali, he said.

He further said that, 20 to 30 per cent of Indian exports of onions, tomatoes and grapes was in Bangladesh markets. Due to road exports slowdown, grapes growers had to make a distress sale of grapes at Rs 12 per kg and the onion growers are in a similar position, he said.

However NAFED director Nanasaheb Patil stated that there was some slowdown in the market, which would continue for a few months due to lower local demand. During Aashad and Chaturmas months of the Hindu calendar, onion is not eaten by some communities.

Generally the national domestic requirement is about 10 to 12 lakh metric tonnes per month.

On Saturday, the minimum, maximum and average prices of onions per quintal were Rs 150, Rs 591 and Rs 475 in the Yeola APMC while the minimum, maximum and average prices of onions per quintal were Rs 200, Rs 600 and Rs 470 in Chandwad APMC.

In Niphad APMC, the minimum, maximum and average prices of onions per quintal were Rs 225, Rs 610 and Rs 521. On June 1, the prices quoted were higher by Rs 100 to Rs 200 per quintal.
The chief minister has been invited to speak on the occasion of United Nations Public Service Day at the Hague.

Kolkata: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee will be travelling to Netherlands on Monday to speak on the occasion of UN Public Service Day at the Hague. She was invited by the United Nations to speak on the occasion in May. The programme will be held at the World Forum Building and the chief minister is scheduled to address the programme on June 23, that has been designated as Public Service Day by UN.

The chief minister will be speaking on how the government works for the development of the people. She will inform the gathering of around 500 delegates from all parts of the world about the various people-friendly schemes of her government, a senior official of the chief ministers office said.

Ms Banerjee is the first chief minister in the history of Bengal who has been invited to deliver a lecture at this prestigious international event. Sources in the state industry department said that Ms Banerjee will also attend a business event organised by Ficci and the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers (known as VNO-NCW), which is the largest employers organisation in Netherlands.

State finance and industry minister Amit Mitra, industry and MSME secretary Rajiva Sinha and an official of joint secretary rank of the finance department will accompany the chief minister in her foreign tour. She is expected to return on June 25.

The UN Public Service Day intends to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community; highlight the contribution of public service in the development process; recognise the work of public servants, and encourage young people to pursue careers in the public sector.
The aircraft then continued on its journey to Kochi and reached its destination at 12:45pm.

The flight was diverted to Mumbai minutes after a female passenger travelling onboard the flight went into premature labour.

Mumbai: A premature baby boy was born early on Sunday on a Jet Airways international flight that was flying from Dammam in Saudi Arabia to Kochi.

The flight was diverted to Mumbai minutes after a female passenger travelling onboard the flight went into premature labour. Being the first baby to be born in-flight for the airline, Jet Airways has offered him a free lifetime pass for all his travels.

After the baby was delivered, the flight landed in Mumbai and both the mother and the newborn were rushed to Holy Spirit hospital in Andheri east, where they were declared safe.

The aircraft then continued on its journey to Kochi and reached its destination at 12:45pm.

According to the officials, the plane was still over the Arabian Sea when the passenger went into labour. A nurse who was travelling to Kochi along with the crewmembers helped the passenger in delivering the baby. The airlines crew provided immediate medical assistance to the guest, along with the trained paramedic, Ms Wilson on board.

A Jet Airways official confirmed the birth of the baby boy, saying, The Boeing 737 with 162 guests was diverted to Mumbai as one of the guests went into premature labour. The guest delivered the baby boy at a height of 35,000 ft. Jet Airways has informed the family of the guest who are now en route from Kochi.
There has been a rise in the number of cancer patients across the state.

Mumbai: In a bid to provide better treatment and facilities to cancer patients across the state, the Central government has approved the first installment of Rs 35 crore to the State Cancer Institute at Aurangabad.

Recently, the state government decided to give the status of State Cancer Institute to the Government Medical College and Cancer Hospital at Aurangabad. The institute is now part of the central government's family and health welfare programme, National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes and Stroke said senior official. The hospital currently has 200 beds and the plan is to add more beds as well as buy new surgical equipment including remote-controlled ones.

There has been a rise in the number of cancer patients across the state and as the load falls on the trust-run Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), the state government recently gave the green signal in a meeting held earlier to the GMC of Aurangabad in Marathwada region to set up a State Cancer Institute to provide an effective treatment for the dreaded disease. Land for the same has already been allotted and the institute will be set up under the guidance of Tata Hospitals administrative director Dr Kailash Sharma. Under this scheme, each state will get Rs 120 crore for implementation of the scheme.

Talking to The Asian Age, Dr Sharma said, The programme aimed to set up at least one specialised cancer institute in every state. Each state was to get about Rs 120 crore, out of which 75 per cent of the central government funds were to be released only after the necessary action was initiated. Eventually, now Maha-rashtra has got its first installment of the 75 per cent of funds.

Dr Sharma said, The funding will be utilised for the equipment purchases and construction work.

The atomic energy department will also provide the institute with the Bhabhatron-II machine, which is essential for radiotherapy during cancer treatment.

About the institute
Thackeray remained firm on two names for the Presidents post  RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and scientist M.S. Swaminathan.

Mumbai: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its saffron ally in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena could not reach a consensus on the Presidential elections and the candidates for the coveted post. BJP president Amit Shah held a close-door meeting with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray at the latters residence on Sunday. Sources said that Mr Thackeray has refused to extend a blanket support to the BJP candidate without knowing who it is. Mr Thackeray remained firm on two names for the Presidents post  RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and scientist M.S. Swaminathan.

The closed-door meeting at Matoshree, Bandra (east) between the BJP and Sena leaders went on for an hour. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra BJP president Raosaheb Danve and Yuva Sena chief Aaditya Thackeray were also present at the meeting. Sources said the two leaders spoke about the Presidential election scheduled next month. The BJP is seeking opinions from all parties on the names of possible candidates for the Presidents post.

Sena sources said Mr Shah sought support from the ally for the common presidential candidate. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide the name of the candidate. Mr Thackeray insisted on knowing the name of the candidate. However, no name was revealed by the BJP.

The Sena will not give a blanket support to BJP candidate, the source said. The BJP has kept name of their candidate for the top post under wraps. It may be recalled that the Sena had supported

Congress candidate Pratibha Patil in the presidential election in 2007 and Pranab Mukherjee in 2012, going against BJP candidates then. The Sena has put the BJP in a fix, after it suggested Mr Bhagwat and Mr Swaminathan (aka father of the Green Revolution) for the Presidents post.

For the 2017 presidential poll, there are 776 MPs and 4,120 MLAs, whose vote value totals to 10,98,882. Every MPs vote value is 708 and every MLAs is around 175, which is based on their respective states population. The halfway mark is 5,49,442 votes, which BJP needs to get its candidate elected. In Maharashtra, Sena has 18 Lok Sabha and three Rajya Sabha MPs with voting value 14,868. In the Assembly, there are 63 MLAs whose voting value is 11,025. So, the Senas total vote value is 25,893. Though it was an important political development, there was no official comment from both the parties on the discussion held between the two top leaders.
The Sena's scathing attack on Shah came a day after he met party President Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree'.

Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Monday stepped up its attack on the BJP and slammed its President Amit Shah, saying that his party may win in case of snap polls in Maharashtra and also get its presidential nominee elected but wondered whether it would be able to save the day in Kashmir.

"Amit Shah and his party's eyes are on mid-term polls in Maharashtra. But instead of mid-term poll results, we are worried about what will happen in Kashmir and in violence-hit Darjeeling," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece Saamana.

The Sena's scathing attack on Shah came a day after he met party President Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree'.

It said the biggest question today was till when should we keep counting the number of martyred security personnel.

"Amit Shah says Maharashtra government will last its five-year term. But will our Kashmir remain on India's map?" it questioned.

The Sena said that Jammu and Kashmir Chief minister Mehbooba Mufti was openly supporting "youth attacking" soldiers and was blaming jawans for the present situation in Kashmir.

"When the Sena talks about farmers and takes a nationalist stand over issues, attempts are made to teach us a lesson. But not a word is spoken against her (Mehbooba) by the BJP. On the contrary they are supporting it," it said.

"Maharashtra shouldn't be a priority. The situation has gone out of hand in Kashmir and Darjeeling where innocents are being killed.

"One may have political differences with (West Bengal CM) Mamata Banerjee but nobody should try to take political advantage of the situation there," it added.

"Whatever has to happen in Maharashtra mid-term polls will happen. Amit Shah says they will form the government. You will get their president elected. You will win all elections. But will you be able to save Kashmir?" it asked.

Shah had yesterday ruled out any snap polls in Maharashtra but said the party was ready in case of such an eventuality.
After the arrest of a UP graduate, the raids were conducted by Maharashtra police.

Mumbai: The Thane police is set to crack down on a group of 100 local fuel stations that are suspected of using electronic chips to manipulate their discharge of fuel in a manner that less fuel is given for what shown on the receipt.

The police is searching for the source of these chips that are being used by those in the scanner. A Dombivali-based electronics post-graduate was arrested by a UP police team last month for supplying such chips to fuel station owners in UP and it is suspected that there could be more like him actively aiding in the fraud still.

The police on Saturday raided two petrol pumps, arresting owners and an official of two petrol pumps in Thane and Dombivali for allegedly cheating consumers by rigging fuel dispensing units that jumped the reading but released lower quantities of fuel. The arrested accused are Chetan Dhawan and his brother Jagmohan, owners of Indian Oil petrol pump at Wagle Estate and Vipul Dedhia, manager of Arman petrol pump in Dombivali.

E-chips being used to manipulate fuel prices. (Photo: Deepak Kurkunde)

The police have received details of more than 100 petrol pumps in Maharashtra, especially nearby Mumbai suburbans, which are cheating on people by dispensing low quantity of petrol. Crime branch official said, Our team is closely monitoring several petrol pumps and keeping an eye on every activity. Once we will get exact clue, we will raid the place. Police officials further said, We have got information that there are several chipmakers staying in Maharashtra and they are selling it out of states. Our plan would be to track those chip makers. This chips they send to the Petrol pumps, the petrol machine has a programmed integrated circuit (IC) installed in the dispensing unit and when an attendant pushes the lever to release petrol, the chip in the machine reads the fuel flow, but the machine was tampered with such that it jumped the reading while dispensing less fuel.

It was also reported that two petrol pumps were sealed at Bhiwandi.

Similar scam in Lucknow

In UP, scam has revealed that around 80% of petrol pumps across UP were using cheat chips to dispense low quantities of fuel. The special task force (STF) of UP had unearthed the petrol pump scam on April 28. Since then, several raids have been conducted on various fuel stations in Lucknow and other places. The raids on seven fuel pumps in Lucknow on April 28 also led to the arrest of 22 others, including four petrol pump owners after seven FIRs were lodged in this connection. At least 15 electronic chips and 29 remote control devices were seized from these filling stations.
Nearly 20 officers from across the state were vying for transfers and postings to the city of their choice.

Rakhunde, who is a real estate agent from Nagpur, projected himself to be close to the state chief minister.

Mumbai: The Mumbai Crime Branch's probe into the alleged cash-for-transfer scam that it uncovered recently has revealed that at least two senior officers of Inspector General-Deputy Inspector General ranks were in touch with a few of the seven accused arrested in the case so far.

The questioning of the accused brought out the fact that at least 20 officers, mostly Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACPs), along with police inspectors and deputy commissioners, apart from the two senior officers, from across the state were allegedly vying for a transfer and posting to the city of their choice.

Following the May 31 raid at a star hotel near the airport. The unit VIII of crime branch had arrested General Manager of Mahananda -Vidyasagar Hirmukhe (47), Kishore Mali (38) from Pune, Vishal Ombale (40) and Ravindra Singh Yadav (51). Subsequently, they arrested Kamlesh Kanade, Ritesh Rakhunde alias Bhaiyyaji and Badanawaz Maner.

In most of the cases, the officers were approached by the accused persons who projected themselves to have contacts in the higher echelons of state and central government. We are verifying the names and details of those that have come to the fore, said a senior crime branch officer.

Questioning of the accused revealed of bank transactions of huge amount of money, which is now being investigated. There were several transactions involving huge amount that were made from accounts of some of the accused. We are probing the money trail of these accounts, added the officer.

Rakhunde, who is a real estate agent from Nagpur, projected himself to be close to the state chief minister.

He claimed to have clout in the government for getting transfers. Yadav was a former member of the censor board and his term had expired, however, he had made a fake identity card as a member and it also had a national emblem on it.
Kang Kyung-wha was appointed as UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights in September 2006.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in appointed Kang after the opposition-led parliament failed to issue a report on the outcome of its confirmation hearing for her. (Photo: United Nations)

Seoul: Kang Kyung-wha was appointed as South Korea's first woman foreign minister on Sunday despite facing strong objections from the opposition parties.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in appointed Kang after the opposition-led parliament failed to issue a report on the outcome of its confirmation hearing for her.

President Moon urged Kang to show actions that will prove the opposition parties' objections wrong.

"I want you to truly help expand the external appearance of our diplomatic relations and show how great our capabilities are. I hope you would make those who have opposed you realise that they were wrong," Yonhap news agency quoted President Moon as saying to Kang.

Kang, a former UN official, has been accused of alleged tax evasions and false registration of address for her daughter.

She was appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator in the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in March 2013.

Previous to this position, she served as United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights. She was appointed to this position by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in September 2006.
The past is specially important as todays regional dreams are rooted in the memories of yesterdays experience.

The bloodshed in Darjeeling highlights how foolish it was to try to make Bengali a compulsory school subject even in a Nepalese-majority district. But the agitation that flared up had been simmering for more than a century and concerns not just West Bengal but India as a whole. The ascendancy of an authoritarian, monocultural party at the Centre greatly increases the likelihood of minority groups seeing the state as the prison house of nationalities, Lenins term for Tsarist Russia.

The turbulence in Jammu and Kashmir is the most obvious instance of this gulf between nation and region. Whatever the outcome, strife will not end so long as the Kashmir revolt is dismissed as only the outcome of Pakistani mischief, jihadist terrorism and black money. As A.S. Dulat, the perspicacious former head of the Research and Analysis Wing, pointed out, there can be no solution until the Kashmiris themselves have been won over through a process he called selling peace through a sustained dialogue. That demands a sympathetic approach and some knowledge of the historical background. I am reminded in this connection of the legendary Ranjit Guptas response to my outrage at alleged human rights abuses against the Naga tribes. Known for suppressing Naxalites when he was Kolkatas police commissioner, Ranjit Gupta was interested in anthropology and was aware of history. Dont forget, he said, that India was an imperial creation and can be kept together only through imperial methods! Far from admitting that modern India was an imperial creation, the change of place names  will the Gateway of India be the next victim?  suggests that many Indians would like to deny that the British ever ruled us. Not for them the view that to strengthen their attempt at developing an India-wide response to the India-wide rule of the British the Congress, virtually the sole opinion-maker then, invented the idea of an ancient Mother India to which all Indians had once owed allegiance. Mother India means nothing to Nagas, Mizos, Meteis or Kashmiri Muslims.

The past is specially important as todays regional dreams are rooted in the memories of yesterdays experience. It cant be glossed over to suit contemporary ideology. The Young Mizo Associations 10-point agreement with the British explicitly provided for opting out of post-colonial India. The Naga Club formed in 1918 submitted a memorandum to the Simon Commission, claiming sovereignty and asking the British to leave us alone to determine for ourselves as in ancient times once colonial rule ended. The Naga National Council proclaimed Nagalands independence on August 14, 1947, and claimed 99 per cent support for a sovereign Naga state in the referendum it conducted in 1951.

People in these areas still refer to the rest of the country as India. They still talk of loyal and hostile Nagas. Accompanying an administrative officer on tour, I noticed that his entourage carefully avoided hostile villages and visited only loyal ones. Loyalty has a price. Mr Dulat says that money in Kashmir goes back a long, long way. It does in the rest of entire country too, specially in regions where New Delhis rights are contested. The Centres per capita subvention figures tell an intensely political story. One of the elders (gaonburas) of a loyal village we visited said the British came first and the Nagas were loyal to them. Then followed the Indians and the Nagas were loyal to them too. But the Indians were not honest, he complained, trotting out a litany of grievances that all boiled down to funds and subsidies.

Darjeelings Nepalese  or Gorkhas  have not lagged behind Mizos and Nagas. When the Minto-Morley Reforms were being considered, the Hillmens Association of Darjeeling submitted a memorandum demanding a separate administrative setup. Ten years later it sent another memorandum seeking a separate administrative unit for Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri. The Hillmens Association again raised the demand before the Simon Commission, and followed it up the following year with a joint petition, also endorsed by the Gorkha Officers Association and the Kurseong Gorkha Library, demanding separation from Bengal. In 1941, Rup Narayan Sinha, the Hillmens Association president, urged New Delhi to convert Darjeeling district into a chief commissioners province.

But theres a problem. The now forgotten Gorkha National Liberation Front founder, Subash Ghising, mentioned the identity problem of the nine million Gorkhas in the country. Thats what Morarji Desai meant by saying that Nepalese was a foreign language and couldnt be included in the Eighth Schedule. Settlers from Nepal fanned out along the Himalayan foothills and all over India and into Sikkim and Bhutan long before the British began importing Nepalese labour or established recruitment centres at Ghoom and Gorakhpur. Darjeeling had only 1,900 people in 1850, including Lepchas and Bhutiyas. The Nepalese share of Darjeelings population rose from 54 per cent in 1901 to 58.4 per cent in 1971 because already settled families invited their kin to join them, like migrants worldwide. Rajiv Gandhis refusal to countenance citizenship for post-1950 immigrants was explicable in view of the reported growth of over 700 per cent between 1951 and 2001 in Darjeelings Nepalese population.

It would be ideal if the Nepalese, Kashmiri Muslim, Naga, Mizo and other minority labels could be submerged in an enlightened Indian identity. But the warning of another future lurked in the memorial the undivided CPI sent to the Constituent Assembly asking that the three contiguous areas of Darjeeling district, southern Sikkim and Nepal be formed into one single zone to be called Gorkhastan. As the old pop song had it, Que sera, sera/ Whatever will be, will be/ The futures not ours to see/ Que sera, sera/ What will be, will be. Much will depend on the spirit of accommodation in the rest of the country.
The platform apparently went down around 9am on Friday, starting with US and travelling to Canada, parts of UK, Mexico and Japan.

Popular video-streaming website YouTube reportedly went down for thousands of users across US, Canada and parts of UK, Mexico and Japan at around 9am ET (2pm BST) on Friday, 16th June.

During the early hours of 16th June, thousands of users started reported issues with watching and uploading videos, posting comments and problems regarding accessibility with YouTube. There were many users who even faced the 500 Internal Server Error Message, upon logging into the website. According to a report published by Outage, around 3,000 reports regarding the issue surfaced on US alone, followed by 200 reports in Canada. Visitors to YouTube were met with words: A team of highly trained monkeys has been dispatched to deal with this situation.

This is a second such incident in a weeks time with YouTube. Previously, the platform apparently went down across UK and parts of Europe  affecting thousands of users who were unable to access the website. YouTubes support team has not yet confirmed the outage on its official social media channels, but users continue to report suffering intermittent downtime.
Police Commander Stuart Cundy said the new number may change as investigation continues.

A view of an apartment in the Grenfell Tower after fire engulfed the 24-storey building, in London. (Photo: AP)

London: London police say that the number of dead or missing in the high-rise apartment building fire is now 79.

Police Commander Stuart Cundy gave the new figure during a statement outside Scotland Yard on Monday. The previous figure given was 58.

Cundy says the new number may change as investigation continues. He said that the search and recovery operation in the 24-story Grenfell Tower continues, and it has been incredibly distressing for families.

He said that its hard to describe the devastation the fire has caused. Cundy added that authorities are investigating whether any crimes had been committed in the fire.

Two British officials said Sunday that new exterior cladding used in a renovation of Grenfell Tower may have been banned under UK building regulations.
Traffic was shut down on a section of Seven Sisters Road, where the incident happened.

Police officers man a cordon near the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park where a vehicle struck pedestrians in London on Monday, June 19, 2017. (Photo: AP)

London: One man was killed and 10 people hospitalised when a van ran into pedestrians near a mosque in north London in an incident that is being investigated by counter-terrorism officers, police said on Monday.

The 48-year-old male driver of the van "was found detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police," a police statement said.

Police said in a statement there were "a number of casualties", adding that they were called to reports of "a vehicle in collision with pedestrians" at 00:20 am (2320 GMT).

"We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims," the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body, said on Twitter.

Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, said the van had "intentionally" run over people leaving night prayers for the holy month of Ramadan.

Prime Minister Theresa May described the crash as a "terrible incident." The statement from her office said her thoughts were with the injured, their loved ones and emergency services who responded to the scene.

An AFP reporter could see a helicopter and many emergency vehicles at the scene, which was closed off by a large police cordon. Traffic was shut down on a section of Seven Sisters Road, where the incident happened.

"We saw lots of people shouting and lots of people injured," David Robinson, 41, who arrived just after the accident, told AFP.

The London Ambulance Service said it had sent "a number of resources" to the scene.

The mosque is near Seven Sisters Road and was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has entirely changed under new management. Its former imam Abu Hamza was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015.

He preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States.

In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MCB to promote better understanding of Islam following Islamist-inspired attacks in Paris.

Despite the change in leadership and new focus on community relations, the mosque received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the Paris attacks.
Russia said it was suspending its interaction with the US on preventing air incidents over Syria from June 19.

Russias defence ministry on Monday also said it would view as targets any flying objects over Syria in the areas of the country where its air forces operate, Russian news agencies reported. (Photo: AP/Representational)

Moscow: The downing of a Syrian government warplane by the United States is a step toward a dangerous escalation, and Moscow is warning Washington not to use force against Syrian government troops, a senior Russian diplomat told Interfax news agency on Monday.

Russias defence ministry on Monday also said it would view as targets any flying objects over Syria in the areas of the country where its air forces operate, Russian news agencies reported.

The ministry said it was suspending its interaction with the United States on preventing air incidents over Syria from June 19, the agencies reported.

Read: Russia says US-led coalition colludes with ISIS in Syria

The US did not use its communication channel with Russia ahead of the downing of the Syrian government warplane, the ministry was quoted as saying.

The US-led coalition said the Syrian plane had dropped bombs on its allies fighting against the Islamic State group in the war-torn country.

Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov also told the agency that a set of new US sanctions that can be imposed on Russia will lead Moscow to retaliate.

Ryabkov said he and US undersecretary of state Thomas Shannon will meet in St Petersburg on June 23 to discuss problems in bilateral ties, Interfax reported.

Read: US air strike kills 80 relatives of ISIS terrorists, incuding 33 children in Syria

He described the incident as an act of aggression.

This strike has to be seen as a continuation of Americas line to disregard the norms of international law, Ryabkov told journalists in Moscow, according to the TASS state news agency.

What is this if not an act of aggression? he said in Russias first official reaction to the downing of the plane on Sunday.

It is, if you like, help to those terrorists that the US is fighting against, declaring they are carrying out an anti-terrorism policy, Ryabkov said.
On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

he Tehran Security Council has convened an emergency meeting after two terror attacks were reported on the Iranian Parliament and Imam Khomeini Mausoleum respectively on Wednesday. (Photo: AP)

Tehran: Irans Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.

It was the first missile attack by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

It came hours after supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a statement on his website, vowed Iran would slap its enemies in honour of the victims families, including those killed in Syria and Iraq.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called terror bases.

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were in retaliation for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS.

Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed, the statement said.

It said the attack targeted a command base.... of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor, Syrias oil-rich eastern province.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, had also vowed to avenge the attacks.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was promoting terrorist groups in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of volunteer fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syrias conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
Officials clarified there would be exceptions for mixed-nationality families in the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar on June 5 and announced that Qatari residents would have 14 days to leave. (Photo: AP/Representational)

Dubai: The deadline for Qataris to leave neighbouring Gulf Arab states has come into effect as the diplomatic standoff persists despite multiple mediation efforts.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar on June 5 and announced that Qatari residents would have 14 days to leave. The deadline was Monday.

Officials later clarified there would be exceptions for mixed-nationality families in the Gulf.

Read: UAE exempts Qataris married to Emiratis from expulsion order

Still, the United Nations human rights chief and rights groups such as Amnesty International have criticised the expulsion of Qataris, saying there are people who risk losing their jobs and students who cannot sit for exams.

Gulf Arab states, outraged by Qatar's support of Islamists, accuse it of backing terror groups. Qatar says the allegations are politically motivated and that it denounces terrorism.
In the first four months of 2017, Australia granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indian nationals.

Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia. (Photo: File)

Melbourne: The Australian government on Monday announced that Indian nationals can apply for a visitor visa online starting July 1.

Australia's Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Alex Hawke, said the online application option would make applying for the country's visitor visas easier and enhance the experience for Indians.

There has been a significant increase in demand for Australian visas in India with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, an official statement said.

In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indian nationals.

"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," Hawke said.

It will offer benefits like 24/7 accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and the ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the department's Immi Account portal.

"Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible," he said.
by Fady Noun

An "Ecumenical Pentecost" is analysed historically and theologically. Leo XIII and Sr Elena Guerra, together with a small US Protestant congregation, played a key role. For Paul VI the movement represented "an opportunity for the Church". Its contribution touches the renewal of the theology of the Western Church and Reformed Churches.

Beirut (AsiaNews)  The beginning of June in Rome saw the Golden Jubilee of the Charismatic Renewal (RC) in the presence of Pope Francis, who described it as a "current of grace" with countless tributaries. Members of the assemblies are now fully entitled to speak of the "baptism of the Spirit" which is not a second baptism, but a confirmation of the grace and presence of Christ. Fady Noun, deputy editor of L'Orient-Le Jour and correspondent for AsiaNews, was among the speakers from Lebanon who attended the event as a journalist and as an active member of the charismatic movement. Here are his thoughts:

A "current of grace" for the whole Church

The Golden Jubilee of the Charismatic Renewal in the Catholic Church just held in Rome (31 May-4 June 2017) has been described by many as "an ecumenical Pentecost", with Pope Francis being the first to insist on the Ecumenical character" of this renewal from its inception. This assertion can be understood two ways, first historically, then theologically.

Historically, the 1960s saw an extraordinary convergence of two currents of grace that led to the charismatic renewal of the Catholic Church. The latter claimed an extraordinary spiritual heritage that dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, with an ecclesial depth that is indistinctly Catholic and evangelical.

From this perspective stands out one pope, Leo XIII (1810-1903), who on the advice of a nun, Elena Guerra, consecrated the 20th century to the Holy Spirit, as well as a small Protestant evangelical congregation established in Topeka, Kansas.

Sister Elena Guerra is the founder of the Congregation of the Oblates of the Holy Spirit in Luca (Italy). At the age of 50, she wrote to Pope Leo XIII under special inspiration and encouraged by her spiritual director to press him to ask that the Holy Spirit be ardently invoked for the renewal of the Catholic Church. The other decisions that this correspondence sparked include a religious ceremony led by Leo XIII on 1 January 1901, the first day of the first year of the 20th century, in which he invoked the Holy Spirit and sang the hymn Veni Creator Spiritus (Come Creative Spirit) in the name of the whole Church.

On that same day, at about 11 pm, thousands of miles away, on 17 Stones Avenue in the town of Topeka, Kansas (United States), where Reverend Charles Fox Parham had set up the Bethel Bible College (Bethel Gospel School) and where a chain of uninterrupted prayer had been started to invoke the Holy Spirit, a student asked Rev Parham to lay his hands on her. She was then baptised into the Holy Spirit and began to pray in tongues. In the days that followed Rev Parham and others had the same experience. This event is generally considered the starting point of Pentecostalism in the Reformed Churches.

In order to renew his Church, like the One who had made Peter a fisherman of men, the reverend threw his nets among humble black and white folks of a nation that was to become the first power in the world. He did so far from the established Churches of a sleepy Reformation that ended up persecuting the emerging "Pentecostalism" and forced it to become a tradition on its own. Such is the story of this historical and mystical link that binds the Catholic Church to the Pentecostal movement and which subsequent developments confirmed.

It is worth noting that Elena Guerra was the first woman to be beatified by Pope John XXIII, who summoned the Second Vatican Council and asked the Church to pray to the Holy Spirit to renew its wonders "as if it were a new Pentecost." It is thanks to the faithfulness of the Pentecostal churches through many persecutions that the buds of this new spring broke out in American academic circles at the University of Pittsburgh in 1967, two years after the Council ended. From there, it spread like wildfire throughout the world, to the point that the "members" of groups of prayers and communities claiming the Charismatic Renewal now number some 150 million.

It is the very fact that those who were baptised in the Holy Spirit refused to leave the Catholic Church which made possible the Charismatic Renewal as we know it, exactly the opposite of what happened to the Reformed Churches.

By welcoming the "Charismatics" in Rome at Pentecost in 1975, Paul VI did not hesitate to describe this renewal as "a chance for the Church." In fact, he said that in view of its fruits, "how not to believe that this renewal is a chance for the whole Church?" This was a warning against rejection by an episcopate who, in the early days, mistrusted it. John Paul II, Benedict XVI and now Francis confirmed this at once prudent and courageous diagnosis.

With the Golden Jubilee just held in Rome, Francis completed the task and officially accredited the Charismatic Renewal in the Catholic Church as "a current of grace" for the whole Church and the experience of baptism in the Spirit as a rule in the life of every Christian.

Clarification

During a symposium held at the Pontifical Urbaniana University (1 June), Raniero Cantalamessa, Ralph Matin, Peter Hocken and Vinson Synan made some informative statements that clarified theologically the popes views.

In his warm voice, the preacher of the Papal Household said that the Charismatic Renewal is "the most remarkable sign of the awakening of the Catholic Church to the action of the Holy Spirit and to its charisms" after Vatican II. He also spoke about the contribution of the Charismatic Renewal to the renewal of the theology of the Western Church and the Reformed Churches.

Citing St Augustine and Nietzsche as a counterpoint, as well as Protestant theologian Karl Barth and Saint Basil of Caesarea, Fr Cantalamessa spoke of a "theology of the third article" of the Creed (I believe in the Holy Spirit) announced by Barth that has come to renew the spirituality of the Western Church by "restoring to the doctrine of salvation its positive content, namely the constant and inward presence (indwelling) of the Holy Spirit and the new life in Christ" against the negative, repressive and guilty content rejected by the West.

This is why, Fr Cantalamessa insisted that the "charismatic renewal" must not be reduced to devotion or belonging to a group or movement, but must be understood as "personal openness to the Holy Spirit" or as a current of grace flowing in different forms" throughout the Church.

Fr Peter Hocken and Vinson Synan both insisted on the "radical equality" of all those who receive the baptism in the Spirit. Father Hocken also spoke of a "charismatic ecumenism" that brings together all those who have experienced baptism in the Spirit, as opposed to the theological ecumenism in the institutional Church.

For his part, Ralph Martin shed new light on the sacrament of confirmation, considering that the experience of the inward presence (infilling) of the Spirit can be regularly renewed, that it is not "given once and for all times." For him, there will be no "new evangelisation" without "a new Pentecost".

What is happening in various forms in the Catholic Church is good. In it, the "baptism in the Spirit" is spread by a thousand ways through the body of the institutional Church, well beyond the visible boundaries of charismatic groups, communities or fraternities with more or less loose, more or less permanent structures.
The jet was engaged on a mission against the Islamic State. Damascus speaks of "gross attack". According to Washington, it hit soldiers of the US-backed Arab-Kurd coalition. Joint exercises between Iran and China in the Persian Gulf.

Damascus (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The US-led international coalition yesterday shot down a Syrian army jet south of Raqqa, in the eastern sector of Syria, the scene of the offensive against the stronghold of the Islamic State (IS) in the country. A statement issued by the Syrian state government said the pilot is currently missing and that the vehicle was engaged in a combat mission against jihadist militias.

In a note broadcast on public television, the army in Damascus speaks of "gross attack" that undermines the efforts of the "only armed force" capable of fighting "terrorists" on the territory. The incident took place at a time when "the Syrian army and its allies have made real progress in the fight against Daesh" [Arabic acronym for IS].

The US central command confirms the strike on the Syrian jet , which in their view was dropping bombs on members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (FDS), Arab-Kurdish rebels (supported by Washington) operating in the region of Resafa. The Pentagon justifies the attack by defining it as "act of collective self-defense".

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (Osdh) also reported fighting in Syria yesterday (for the first time) among government troops and elements of the Arab-Kurd alliance in Raqqa province. The fighting focused late yesterday on the villages of Chouwayhane and Jaaydine, about 40km from the "stronghold" of the Caliphate.

Meanwhile, there are new signs of war in the region: China and Iran have been holding joint naval exercises in the Hormuz Straits in the Persian Gulf. According to the official Irna agency report, the maneuvers saw an Iranian navy and two Chinese destroyers, a vehicle for logistic supply and a helicopter.

Joint military exercises between Tehran and Beijing come amid a growing tension in the Middle East, battered by bloody confictions and sharpened by the recent Gulf crisis between Saudi Arabia and Qatar (although the real goal is Iran). China has always promoted a policy of non-interference in the affairs of the region, promoting trade relations with Riyadh and Tehran. Two days ago US fleet vehicles held naval exercises with Qatar.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The conference begins tomorrow and continues until June 21. Joint work was blocked in 2002 over allegations of "proselytism" against the Russian Catholic Church. Change of climate after the meeting between Francis and Kirill in Havana in 2016. Russians prefer to talk about common mission to the world rather than unity of the united Church in the first 10 centuries.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - From tomorrow and for two days until June 21, a convention will be held in Moscow, apparently intended solely for the archivists and academics. At the Institute of Universal History of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 12 Russian historians and 11 historians sent by the Vatican from different universities will discuss the Vatican Ostpolitik, the Soviet Union and the Russian Orthodox Church. Among the Russians, some specialists also represent institutions of the Patriarchate of Moscow.

The convention is in fact the continuation of joint work between the historians of the two parties (the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Vatican Academy of History) which began in the 1990s and led to the realization in 1998 of a Symposium on Holy See and Russia from Leo XIII to Pius XI, the proceedings of which were published by the Libreria Editrice Vaticana in 2002. Since then, cultural exchanges at this level had practically collapsed due to the worsening of relations between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Vatican. The accusations of unfair proselytism and competition for Ukrainians "united" to Russian orthodoxy on its "canonical territory" had led to the expulsion of a bishop and Catholic missionaries from Russia in 2002, as well as the winding down of various cultural cooperation projects, which even though they did not cease completely, were reduced to almost nothing.

Even the official theological dialogue between Catholics and Orthodox has undergone a slowdown and the various sessions of the Joint Commission in recent years have led to the vain search for an understanding at least on ecclesiological perspectives of the early centuries, as evidenced by the document discussed in 2015 on 'Exercise of communion and the value of primacy' in the ancient church. The Russians have always been opposed to this type of research, thinking it is a waste of time: in their opinion, the autocephalous Churches have their own established physiognomy, and the "ecumenical" perspectives of their reunification do not lead to any useful result. It has been deemed preferable to focus on the need to counteract the secularization of the globalized world and the threat of Islamic fundamentalism that provokes persecution of Christians in the Middle East and in various parts of the world, in a coordinated way.

The Cuba meeting between Francis and Kirill

The rigid position of the Patriarchate of Moscow seemed to have led to the impossibility of resuming dialogue on content, but the unexpected encounter between Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill in Cuba in 2016 seems to have given a new impetus to Catholic-Orthodox relations. It is true that the Pancthusian Council of Crete of a year ago, which should in turn revive these projects, was deserted by the Russians in solidarity with other Churches at odds with Constantinople. Yet in this year something has moved: several joint missions have been organized to visit and bring solidarity to the Christians of Iraq and Syria, where the ISIS war is seriously damaging local communities, largely orthodox . This solidarity has been repeated on several occasions by Pope Francis himself, in recent times also in favor of Egyptian Copts, victims of repeated and tragic attacks.

Moreover, the relationship between the Patriarchate of Moscow and the Holy See has clearly improved over the last decade, especially after the death of Pope John Paul II and the choice of Russian Catholics to adopt a policy of great loyalty to the " State" Church of orthodoxy. There is great tensions in Ukraine, with Moscow warning against exercising any control on the choices of Greek Catholics, who in turn complain about the "invasive" politics of the Russians even at the political-ecclesial level. So there are other ways to improve relationships by avoiding the most tense issues, and in this sense, scholars can certainly be useful.

The Moscow convention thus resumes the debate from where it had been interrupted, seeking a common re-reading of the "opening" phase following the Stalinist period, called Ostpolitik in reference to the political choices of the West Germany of Willy Brandt. The term is also applied by press to the Vatican's opening, which began with the Second Vatican Council and continued in a long, fruitful collaboration with personalities such as Cardinal Agostino Casaroli and Metropolitan Nikodim (Rotov), the spiritual master of the current patriarch Kirill, who died from a stroke during a private hearing in front of Pope John Paul I in 1978.

The hope is that a half-century of "thaw" can lead to a new season favorable even to our times, if not for the cyclical season. History in fact serves to better understand the past, but also to illuminate the future, provided that someone is willing to listen to it.
by Nguyen Van

Farmlands loss and pollution are growing. Expropriations cause great social instability. Government cracks down on protests. The Catholic community stands by the victims of the Formosa disaster. Clergymen and parishioners in Thuan Nghia call for an end to threats against the spirituality and property of people in Song Ngoc.

Hanoi (AsiaNews)  Last year, Vietnam's economy grew by 6 per cent. In 1987, the Vietnamese government opened the door to development of a market economy, albeit influenced by socialism.

Vietnamese provinces have focused on industrial development, exports, manufacturing, trade, investment, and services. The authorities have been busy planning bridges, roads and manufacturing zones.

Many economists noted that "every sector, every province, every government agency has focused only on economic development. The authorities have not paid attention to education and environmental protection. Overall, Vietnams red capitalists have focused on short-term interests.

The countrys farmland is shrinking and, along with rivers and waters, it is becoming increasingly polluted. Under Vietnamese law, the land is "owned by the people," which actually means the government. The authorities can take advantage of the situation to protect the interests of certain groups, people or "big red capitalists".

As a result of real estate speculation and factory construction in the past 20 years, farmland has been lost, a problem that grows day by day. Worse still, it is the government that usually enforces the expropriation policy. Although the state is prepared to pay farmers, the amount is usually far below market value.

The authorities have also used their power to seize the land owned by religious communities, forcing them to abandon many places of worship.

As a result of government land legislation, millions of people have been impoverished. Hundreds of thousands of people who have demanded the return of their property have not been compensated.

Expropriations are causing great social instability with people losing confidence in government. Many of the officials who issue permits are corrupt, colluding with real estate investors. Buildings, roads, industrial zones, and plants are built for their benefit, or in the interests of their groups.

Out of self-interest, they are willing to destroy the environment where people live. That is why farmers, fishermen in the central provinces, and patriotic intellectuals have become victims of these "red capitalist barbarians".

The Vietnamese authorities tend to turn a deaf year to popular protests, rejecting their demands with harsh repression. In Vung Ang, Ha Tinh province, Communist authorities are doing everything possible to crack down on those who fight for justice and demand reparations from Formosa Plastics, which is responsible for Vietnams worst environmental disaster.

The Church supports disaster victims and is engaged in various actions on their behalf. On 5 June, priests from the parishes of Nhan Hoa district visited Fr Anton ang Huu Nam, vicar of Phu Yen (Ha Tinh province), and Fr JB. Nguyen inh Thuc, Song Ngoc Vicar (Nghe An), both from the Vinh diocese.

Since 6 April 2016, Fr ang Huu Nam and Fr Nguyen inh Thuc have stood by and led people in protests and legal actions against the Taiwan-based company and the government for the slowness and iniquity in the distribution of compensation.

What is more, the plant that released the toxic sewage has reopened, and hundreds of thousands of people in the central provinces are still unemployed. Many families live in extreme poverty. Children cannot go to school.

More than 200 km of coastline are still polluted. Tourism, business and fishing are not yet back to normal. Yet, provincial authorities in Nghe and Ha Tinh accuse the two priests of stirring residents against the Vietnamese government.

Recently, Quynh Luu district authorities have intensified their activities to isolate Fr Nam and Fr. Thuc, threatening parishioners in Phu Yen and Song Ngoc.

On 30 May, police in Quynh Luu used hooligans to surround the Van Thai church and attack Catholic homes with stones and bricks. They destroyed some workshops and damaged sacred images and statues. The thugs even threatened to kill Fr Nguyen inh Thuc.

During their visit, which follows that of Archbishop Giuse Ngo Quang Kiet on 22 May, the clergymen from Nhan Hoa condemned these acts of intimidation. "The authorities have violated sacred places and the right to freedom of religion and faith. In particular, we protest against the defamatory campaign launched in the media against the two priests, persecuting those who dare defend truth and justice."

The priests and parishioners in Thuan Nghia districts (Vinh diocese) joined the protests and issued a statement sent to the People's Committee of Nghe An Province, the Police Department and the Peoples Committee of Quynh Luu District.

In it, they complain about all of the acts of violence against local Catholics, calling on the authorities to: stop threatening the spirituality and property of Song Ngoc parishioners, stop the activities that divide the Song Ngoc parish community from the nation, launch a thorough investigation to identify and try those who attacked the faithful, and, finally, call on Nghe provincial authorities to tell the government to pay adequate compensation for the victims of the Formosa disaster.
Best Tactical Backpacks

If You Don't Own A Tactical Backpack, We're About To Make You Reconsider

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.

Many men shy away from tactical backpacks for fashion reasons. This is understandabletheres no question that one of those hipster leather backpacks goes way better with your favorite athleisure outfit. However, the problem with a hipster backpack is that sometimes you actually want to do things. Like carry significant amounts of cargo, or go on a camping trip. And thats when youll find out why tactical backpacks are goodwhen your fashionable little vintage-style backpack breaks a strap suddenly, or cant carry what you need.

What To Look For:

Quality construction

Ample storage space

Comfortable straps

Ventilation

Theres a whole slew of tactical backpacks out there, from modest little day-packs that are useful but relatively inconspicuous, to giant military backpacks thatll take you all the way through South America. Were going to help you navigate the myriad options available with this roundup of some of the best.

Reebow Military Tactical Backpack

Best For: Pack-rats

This is a solid, solid pack, and a good default choice for people who are getting into the whole functional backpack thing. Its got a lot of pockets but not too many. Its water-resistant and has an excellent Molle system setup  which, for the newbies, is a system that lets you attach smaller bags to the main pack, in case you need to expand your storage capacity. Moreover, while many bags at this price point have cheap zippers, the Reebows zippers are durable and operate smoothly. The all-around quality at a reasonable price point makes this our Editors Choice.

$39.99 at Amazon.com

Mardingtop Tactical Backpack

Best For: Style-savvy men

Since were AskMen.com, even though this is a tactical backpack roundup, weve got to consider style. And if youre of a similar mindset, youll enjoy the fact that this backpack looks very much like your traditional model. Its got a much more minimalist design than the other packs, and when its not filled with survival gear (like a tactical flashlight), it has a slim form factor. However, its also quite functional, if not quite as capacious as some of the options here. Still, the combination of style and capability makes this our Runner-Up.

$43.99 at Amazon.com

Outlander Most Durable Packable Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack

Best For: Value hunters

Okay, so, this isnt as crazy a backpack as many of the options here. It doesnt have many backpacks, theres no extensive Molle system, and it probably wont hold up through the apocalypse. Why get it, then? Well, its perfection for the minimalist, who likes to take day trips, pack light, or take their backpack to the office without looking like a weekend warrior. The price point is absolutely astonishing, and, while not bulletproof, the level of durability here is worlds away from what youll normally get in something of this price. Needless to say, this is our Best Value option.

$16.82 at Amazon.com

The North Face Terra 65 Hiking Pack

Best For: Hardcore campers

This is getting a little more into heavy-duty overnight bag territory. Since it can comfortably handle 65 litres, itll do you for weekend hiking trips, or even a three-week trip to Peru and the surrounding area. North Face is renowned for maintaining a compromise between comfort and ruggedness in their products, and this bag is no exception. It remains comfortable when its absolutely full of heavy stuff, which is absolutely necessary when youre trekking, especially in adverse weather conditions. You probably wont need it, but theres a one-year manufacturers warranty, and after that, The North Face can make their bags like new again for a smallish fee, in case of wear and tear.

$145.71 at Amazon.com

Direct Action Dragons Egg Tactical Backpack

Best For: Comfort

As you may have noticed, youre paying a premium for this one, especially since it doesnt have an absolutely gigantic capacity, like the North Face Terra. But you get what you pay for. This bag is designed for absolute comfort. The whole thing is embedded with a lovely mesh material that contributes constant ventilation. The shoulder straps arent bulky, and theyre fully adjustable for comfort. Its got side pockets that are perfectly fit for water bottles as well. And military aficionados will love the army aesthetics this bag has. A solid choice for those who find most tactical backpacks uncomfortable.

$149.99 at Amazon.com

Kelty Redwing Backpack

Best For: Versatility

The Kelty Redwing is a great middle-of-the-road choice. Its not as built-up as some of the more expensive options, but its got a little more than the minimalist stuff, like the Outlander. Its pockets are really intuitively laid out, giving you quick access to your cargo. Also, its got a hard plastic liner, which is very handy if the bag gets knocked about in travel. That combined with its slim form factor makes this a fantastic carry-on bag, if youre headed on a hiking trip to China, for example, and you need something thatll equip you for every step of the journey.

$99.96 at Amazon.com

5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Backpack

Best For: Traveling

This is a cool alternative because its a sling backpack, which allows for a whole different set of carrying options. You can quickly move it around to the front of your body, which is really handy if youre traveling somewhere where petty theft is common  you can keep everything within sight. The disadvantages? Its a little less comfortable than some of the other backpacks here, and, well, it just looks a little strange. Some will like the nerdy military aesthetic, but some will find it takes them too far away from mainstream fashion. For the aforementioned specialty travel purposes, though, this is a handy choice.

$55.99 at Amazon.com

Diaz Sport Black Tactical Hydration Pack

Best For: Avid hikers

You certainly wouldnt expect a pack at this price point to have a lifetime warranty. But this one does. So there. This is a great choice for the amateur hiker or mountaineer, because its got a built-in water bladder, and the straps offer plenty of support, making it feel inconspicuous even if its loaded up with snacks, a change of clothing, or whatever else you need. Theres always something to pick on, though, and the drawback with this one is that the water straw doesnt draw quite as easily as youd like it to. But, given the price, this is a really small complaint. Another highly recommended intro model.

$43.99 at Amazon.com

FLY HAWK Sling Shoulder Bag Small Crossbody Bag

Best For: Shorter trips

First off, the manufacturers arent lying to you. This is a small bag. But its a suitable option for those who dont have to carry too much  if youre just on a day trip, for example, and dont need a change of clothing. And this is the only option on here thats courier-style, with one shoulder strap, which a small contingent of backpack users will prefer. So, this is a niche option, but if youre part of the contingent to whom it caters, youll enjoy it a lot, and the price is right.

$16.99 at Amazon.com

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By Lila Landowski, Neuroscientist, University of Tasmania

rmonty119/flickr , CC BY-SA

This piece is republished with permission from Millenials Strike Back, the 56th edition of Griffith Review in which Generation Y writers address the issues that define and concern them.

The following is an extract taken from Modern Science, Modern Life.

Research underpinning fundamental scientific concepts or mechanisms of disease is referred to as basic science.

I detest the term.

It conjures up images of mundane, uninteresting, simple lab work, but this is rarely the case. No two days are the same.

And more importantly, basic science provides the crucial foundations for research pathways and is essential for identifying opportunities for innovation.

Perhaps it should be called discovery science? You cant always see the potential applications for basic research; indeed, the applications may not even exist in our lifetime. Isaac Newton surely did not anticipate his universal law of gravitation being involved in the implementation of satellite technology.

Funding scientific research

Unfortunately, basic science remains one of the least attractive kinds of science to fund, especially in Australia. Our country is lagging behind as a result.

Australia is ranked 19th overall on the Global Innovation Index and just 73rd for innovation efficiency, which compares how much research input, across all fields, is turned into commercial output.

I wonder how much better wed do if our National Health and Medical Research Council funded more than the current 18% of submitted research proposals. Of this funding, basic science receives proportionately little.

While investing in science that has more obvious and direct commercial outputs appears to make more economic sense than investing in basic science, you cant take market logic and apply it to science. Some of its greatest achievements began with an accidental discovery or an unexpected result. This is the beauty of science.

For example, the discovery that stomach ulcers were caused by a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori was, in part, a beautiful accident. Australian Nobel laureates Barry Marshall and Robin Warren stumbled across the existence of this bacteria after their lab technician forgot to discard the experiment before the Easter holiday period.

Marshall and Warren wanted to confirm their observations that bacteria were present in the location of the stomach ulcer, so they had been collecting samples from people with diagnosed ulcers. The lab technician had seeded those samples onto a culture plate with a nutritious jelly and left them to grow for two days (as per standard bacterium-growing protocols). Nothing grew, and they didnt find the evidence they were hoping for.

As it turns out, leaving them in the incubator for five days was key. It was the necessary step they didnt know was missing.

Measuring value

The pressure to perform and publish also stifles the research landscape. A scientists worth is apparently quantifiable. We are judged on the volume and impact of our work.

The number of papers we write and the number of times those papers are cited are turned into a single number: an h-index. Technical skills, teaching and mentoring aptitude, passion, and experimental rigor dont feature in the metrics. Some of the most brilliant scientists I have encountered exhibit all of these qualities, but do not have glowing h-indices to show for it.

Scientists and funding bodies generally acknowledge that the h-index is imperfect; however, the score still carries considerable weight, and can be key in deciding funding success, fellowships, promotions and, ultimately, a persons ability to continue being a scientist.

In my eyes, this definition of success is wrong. A scientist with a high h-index, but who performs poor-quality research, does not embody success. Another problem is that scientific journals have an aversion to publishing negative results or minor findings, which, in turn, impacts researchers h-indices. A scientist who has spent years on an experiment that fails to yield a positive result may not have the opportunity to publish their work because journals want a juicy story: a new pathway discovered, a paradigm shift, something done with flashy new technology, or a potential cure.

This can come at a huge cost when the perceived value of the headline usurps the quality of the data or its interpretation, and, after many failed attempts at replication, the data gets retracted. This pressure on scientists to report significant results, especially unusual or breakthrough findings, in turn exposes the research itself to bias.

Public views of science

The bias in scientific reporting also flows on to the public. Journalists trawl academic journals for articles they can turn into splashy headlines and too often report half-truths, premature assumptions, and over-exaggerated extrapolations of data.

According to the media, theres a new treatment reported for Alzheimers Disease every month. In reality, there is still no cure for Alzheimers Disease in humans.

Furthermore, if an experiment doesnt have a positive result and therefore is not published, others are likely to waste time, money and resources repeating that work in the future. However, scientists are nothing if not problem solvers and pushed back against this tendency in recent years. For example, the journal PLOS ONE started a collection for all negative, null and inconclusive results, aptly titled The Missing Pieces.

It is refreshing to see that the requirement for significant results is no longer the only path to publishing research, but theres still a long way to go.

A lonely road

A year ago, I was treading a very lonely path through science.

There were no funds for me to research full time in Hobart and I wasnt able to move away for similar work elsewhere for family reasons. Instead I was fortunate to be able to do another job that I love: I taught full-time at a university while caring for my parents, and spent almost two years doing neuroscience research for free. You could say that I made it hard for myself, but I was determined.









Lila Landowski, Author provided





I received a small grant for the materials necessary to complete the work. A portion of the grant was intended as a stipend; however, with the increasing cost of materials, I forfeited this to buy what I needed to perform what I saw as essential research.

I was also the only scientist working on peripheral nerves  in this case, nerves in the skin  in the institutes laboratory at the time. I couldnt benefit from collective knowledge, nor could I share the workload. Most weeks I worked around 80 hours, and often more. I didnt resent this because I thought it was what I needed to do to keep up in the industry, but I later discovered that my efforts had instead disadvantaged my research career: taking time off work to be a carer or to have a child would have been accounted for in my research profile as a career break.

Oblivious to this, Id tried to do it all while the research clock kept ticking and my h-index was diluted. I could have easily dropped off the radar.

I had been fighting so hard for the career I love, but the seemingly endless setbacks left me heartbroken and demoralised. I lamented on social media:

If only we, as scientists, could be judged on our passion and enthusiasm, our zest for driving new lines of inquiry, on our ability to ask the challenging questions, and for our genuine scientific skills.

Science is supremely beautiful, but I know it can be brutal and unforgiving if you stray from the well-worn pathways. Many people struggle, not fortunate enough to secure a job, a grant or a mentor to keep their passion alive. The issues with research practice and publication can be infuriating, particularly when the path you want to follow hasnt been paved yet.

I am one of the lucky ones. My supervisor Professor Howells is a true advocate for junior researchers and is both my hero and my mentor. Rather than beating my own passage through the challenges of research, we face them as a team.

And it made all the difference: Ive secured considerable funds to keep my research work going for the next three years. Its safe to say that my heart is filled with hope.

Dr Lila Landowski receives research funding from the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation and The Mason Foundation, and her salary is funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council grant.

Originally published in The Conversation.


(Markus Mainka/Bigstock.com) (Markus Mainka/Bigstock.com)

Questions that Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton plans to introduce for people applying to become an Australian citizen have been questioned as being unsuitable, and in some cases potentially discriminatory.It has been reported that the new values test that all applicants will be asked to complete under new rules currently being discussed in Parliament include asking about domestic violence, girls being excluded from education and genital mutilation.Various groups have voiced concerns that such questions, if they are indeed included in the final values test, are racist and geared to particular immigrants such as Muslims. However, it is not clear if the actual values test will be written and made public before the Bill is made into law.Dutton has denied the changes to the citizenship test are aimed at deterring Muslim immigrants, adding that 99% of Australia's Muslim community were law abiding citizens who would find domestic violence abhorrent.However, one academic has described such questions as draconian and suggested that the values test oversteps the mark. Kim Rubenstein, a professor in the College of Law at the Australian National University, said aspects of the bill would give the Government unprecedented power.According to the Settlement Council of Australia, which represents refugees and minorities, singling out certain 'crimes' smacks of 'racial profiling'. 'It is likely to send a strong message that the value of some migrants is lower than others. The proposed changes could have the opposite effect, degrading social cohesion, promoting disloyalty and even leading to greater risk of radicalisation,' it said in a statement.There is also concern that the Bill before Parliament would give Dutton the power to overturn citizenship decisions made by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), which makes judgement on visa and citizenship appeals.According to Fiona McLeod, president of the Law Council of Australia, the decision is based on a small set of cases, when the AAT makes thousands of immigration related decisions every year, some 76,000 in the last two years and around 33,000 relating to immigration.'It is concerning that a small sample of cases, where the full facts are not entirely known, is being used to legitimise the expansion of Ministerial power. The Immigration Minister already has the power to appeal AAT citizenship decisions that he disagrees with. The Minister also has wide powers to cancel an individual's visa on character grounds before a citizenship application is made. This new legislation effectively allows the Minister to override citizenship decisions or to render his own decisions unreviewable,' she said.Dutton believes that the new laws would help maintain strong public support for migration and the value of Australian citizenship in what he described as an 'increasingly challenging national security environment'.
The U321 MPV will launch later this year; to rival the segment-bestseller Innova Crysta.

The Mahindra U321 MPV was seen road-testing a few months ago. It is an all-new vehicle being developed by Mahindra's North American Technical Center. Likely to be a direct rival to the Innova Crysta, the U321 MPV will feature monocoque construction and a spacious three-row seating layout.

Mahindra has seen a pronounced hit in its share of the UV pie in India in recent times. What once stood at 55.10 percent in 2011-12, declined to 29.20 percent in FY'17, a year-on-year shrink of 8.7 percent. While a lot of it is attributed to a non-optimal performance from some of its models, the rising competition has also had its role to play.

Now, with its energies channelised fully towards bringing out the all-round contemporary product, the U321 could be the vehicle that could put Mahindra back into growth track. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to invest Rs 1,500 crore at its Nashik and Igatpuri plants in Maharashtra in developing and manufacturing the U321.

In an exclusive interview with our sister magazine, Autocar Professional, Pawan Goenka, managing director, Mahindra & Mahindra, spoke about the company's confidence in the U321 and shared the strategy going forward for this year.

"We have a two-point strategy. One is to focus on how to improve the product that we have on the ground today, bring attractiveness to the consumer and get some additional volumes. The second focus is on the upcoming products that would be launched during the year," said Goenka.

"We have one major product launch in 2017 and that is the U321. We expect it to become a high-volume driver and add to our numbers that we are doing today. Success finally comes down to the right product, brought at the right price and its positioning, and that's what we will work on. We are pretty confident we should see a turnaround in our market share this year."

The U321 could be expected to be a highly competent offering from the company, helping it to click in just the right way. But, taking up the fight against a strong market competition, which has also strengthened in the last five years, would make it critically challenging for the company to get back to the same levels and regain the chunk of the market, which it used to hold in the past.

This new MPV will be one of Mahindra's most significant launches this year, carrying a lot of high stakes for the company. It will feature the all-new, 1.6-litre mFalcon diesel engine which will also power a slew of other future vehicles.

Also read: Mahindra plans major product offensive
VIDEO: Mazda CX-9 Crash Test

The 2017-model year Mazda CX-9 has earned the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, thanks in large part to across-the-board top ratings in crashworthiness tests.

Additionally, the mid-size SUVs front crash prevention system drew a superior rating and the headlights garnered an acceptable rating.

To earn a 2017 Top Safety Pick+ award, a vehicle must draw a rating of good  the highest available IIHS crash-test rating -- in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint evaluations. The vehicle also needs an available front crash prevention system thats rated advanced or superior as well as headlights that are rated as acceptable or good.

The CX-9 was redesigned for the 2016 model year. Beginning with 2017 models built after November 2016, Mazda modified the deployment pattern of the side curtain air bags to improve protection in front and side crashes.

Before the current model, the most recent CX-9 rated by IIHS was the 2015 model. That vehicle was rated poor for protection in small overlap front crashes, since the structure was seriously compromised and the side air bag didnt deploy, IIHS said. The earlier model also came up short for roof strength, which is important for protecting occupants in a rollover crash, and for head restraints, which help prevent neck injuries in a rear crash. The SUV earned only marginal ratings in those tests.

The latest version of the CX-9 represents a big improvement in vehicle safety.

In addition to better crash protection, the 2017 CX-9 also offers an optional front crash prevention system that IIHS rated as superior. In IIHS track tests at 12 mph and 25 mph, the vehicle avoided collisions, IIHS said. The system also includes a forward collision warning system that meets criteria from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The superior-rated front crash prevention system comes on the CX-9's Grand Touring and Signature trims. Those trim levels also are equipped with the CX-9's best available headlights, which are rated as acceptable. Other trim levels come with headlights that drew a marginal rating from IIHS.

To view video footage of the Mazda CX-9's small overlap front crash test, click on the photo or link below the headline.
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The odds of a tropical storm hitting southeast Texas this week are inching slowly upward as swirling winds pick up in the Caribbean.

A tropical disturbance sparked by a broad band of low pressure in the northwestern Caribbean now has a 90 percent chance of turning into a tropical storm, according to the National Hurricane Center. If that system hits Houston, it could mean a torrent of rain and possible flooding.

But as of now, it's still not clear where the stormy weather will hit.

READ ALSO: Houston streets that are prone to flooding, high water

"A lot of the models early on were going towards Florida and or south of Corpus Christi into Mexico," said National Weather Service meteorologist Wendy Wong. "But some of the newer ones have a wider spread and it looks like most of the U.S. Gulf Coast should be keeping an eye on this now."

Over the weekend, the warm seas and swirling winds have combined to toss a disorganized system of showers and thunderstorms at parts of the Caribbean. Over the coming days, that system is expected move slowly northwest over the Yucatan Peninsula and into the Gulf of Mexico where it will likely coalesce into a tropical or subtropical storm.

But will the storm pick up enough wind speed to turn into a hurricane?

READ ALSO: Maps and charts explain why Houston is flooding more often

"It's always a possibility," Wong said. "But given how close it is to the land when it does develop it may not."

In the meantime, there could be some patchy showers before the skies clear on Tuesday. If the storm strikes Houston, it will likely come Wednesday or Thursday.

Of course, there's still a chance the storm could miss the Bayou City entirely, but Harris County Homeland Security and Emergency Management is ready to go regardless.

READ ALSO: 30 terrifying before and after images of climate change

"It's pretty routine for us," said OHSEM coordinator Mark Sloan.

"Most of us have already been prepared for hurricane season. We understand where we're at because June 1 is the kick-off."

The hurricane season, which doesn't end till Nov. 30, is expected to be rougher than usual, with 11 to 17 named storms likely to strike. The first one - Arlene - formed out in the Atlantic in April, but stayed far from land.

READ ALSO: Clever signs from the 'March for Science'

If the current disturbance morphs into a storm, it will be named Bret.

A hurricane hunter aircraft mission slated for Sunday was cancelled as the storm still lacked a well-defined center, according to the NHC.

As the storm gradually develops, local officials are monitoring developments and staying at the ready.

"We'll be staffing the Emergency Operations Center and monitoring this, tomorrow and all through the week as we figure out what Mother Nature wants to do with the storm," Sloan said. "To us, this is what we do and why we do it."
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services denied investors' proposal to build Surgery Center of Wilmington (N.C.), according to Wilmington Biz.

Here are five key points:

1. The ASC would have had three operating rooms.

2. The Surgery Center of Wilmington also sought to build one procedure room.

3. Health officials gave conditional approval for Wilmington SurgCare, which includes adding three operating rooms and one minor procedure room to the ASC.

4. In May, the department gave North Carolina-based EmergeOrtho approval for a new ASC operating room in Leland, N.C. The practice was vying against North Carolina-based Novant Health for the space.

5. Novant Health appealed the department's decision to deny the health system's proposal to build an ASC with an operating room in Leland. The judge will make a decision regarding Novant Health's appeal, which the N.C. Court of Appeals could appeal.
Here are seven things ASC leaders should know for June 19, 2017.

Young patient dies following dental procedure at California ASC

A three-year-old patient died after undergoing a dental procedure at Stockton, Calif.-based Children's Dental Surgery Center. The patient went to the surgery center to have a dentist pull two teeth and place caps on two other teeth.



4 Pennsylvania health systems adopt value-based care model through partnership

Butler (Pa.) Health System, Greensburg, Pa.-based Excela Health System, Mt. Lebanon, Pa.-based St. Clair Hospital and Morrisville, Pa.-based Washington Health System partnered to initiate a value-based care model.



Construction begins on Idaho surgery center

Arco, Idaho-based Lost Rivers Medical Center began construction on its new surgical center in Arco. LRMC expects construction to finish around summer 2018.



Indianapolis surgery center evacuated after bomb threat, suspect arrested

Indianapolis-based Community Health Network had to evacuate its Community North campus after a man made several threats about a bomb being inside its surgery center on June 15. Health system security apprehended the suspect, and police performed a sweep of the building.



National Cancer Institute awards $6M to Case Western University for Barrett's Esophagus research

The National Cancer Institute awarded a $6 million grant to Case Comprehensive Cancer Center and Case Western Reserve University to study Barrett's Esophagus. Both are based in Cleveland.



Torrance Memorial Medical Center to expand orthopedic, spine ambulatory services in Los Angeles

Philanthropists Melanie and Richard Lundquist donated $32 million recently to Torrance (Calif.) Memorial Medical Center. With a part of the donation, the hospital plans to add ambulatory locations for spine and orthopedic services in Los Angeles.



Bryn Mawr Hospital's orthopedic ASC marks major milestone with 1st surgery

Bryn Mawr (Pa.) Hospital recently opened an orthopedic surgery center. The center is on the fourth floor of a $15 million building and features nine operating rooms.



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ASC leader to know: Lisa Rock of National Medical Billing Services




A fire broke out at Charlottesville, Va.-based Sentara Martha Jefferson Outpatient Care Center, causing the building's ASC to shut its doors temporarily, according to Daily Progress.

Here are five things to know:

1. The fire caused nearly $268,000 in damage and the surgery center will stay closed until next week. The Outpatient Care Center is currently open.

2. Charlottesville Fire Department and Albemarle County Rescue firefighters entered the outpatient facility on June 15 after staff smelled smoke on the center's first floor. Staff evacuated the building before firefighters arrived.

3. When at the facility, the crew found a fire in the decontamination room adjacent to a surgical suite on the second floor and then called for additional help. Firefighters extinguished the fire and ventilated the building to clear the remaining smoke.

4. Combustible material located in close proximity to an appliance that malfunctioned caused the fire, according to department officials.

5. Charlottesville-based Sentara Martha Jefferson will take on the cases previously scheduled for the surgery center this week and early next week.
Kansas will continue losing nearly $1 million per month in federal funds until Osawatomie (Kan.) State Hospital regains certification, according to The Wichita Eagle.

The state mental hospital lost federal certification in December 2015 due to safety, staffing and patient care concerns. Despite a federal survey reporting improvements at OSH in May, CMS told hospital officials June 9 the facility would not be recertified because it failed to be in substantial compliance with federal requirements, according to the report.

Federal inspectors in the May survey noted different issues driving the decision to halt recertification of the mental hospital, such as deficiencies in food service cleanliness and weak hospital policies.

OSH is working to resolve the problems identified by CMS with the goal of regaining certification and federal funding, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Service Secretary Tim Keck told legislators, according to the report
Hospital IT professionals are increasingly tinkering with voice technology apps like Amazon Alexa to deliver routine medical information and help ease clinicians' safety concerns in the operating room, according to a CNBC report.

Experts suggest there is a plethora of opportunities for voice technology. For example, physicians could use Alexa and similar apps to transcribe notes and document patient interactions, allowing them to spend more quality time with patients instead of with EHRs.

Clinicians at Boston Children's Hospital recently released KidsMD, an Alexa-like app designed to provide users with health information about common illnesses and medication dosing. The hospital is also piloting an Alexa app to help physicians follow surgery protocols and procedures while in the OR, according to the report.

Amazon officials also recognized Alexa's affect on healthcare delivery. To spur innovation, the company recently partnered with Merck to encourage developers to build apps to help diabetes patients manage their health.

However, some clinicians are dubious of incorporating Alexa into the workforce because the system is not HIPAA-compliant and cannot safely store patients' health information, according to the report.
Professor David Hughes, executive director of information and analytics for NHS Digital, will leave the UK's health system in August to focus on mental health analysis.

Leeds-based NHS Digital provides national information, data and IT systems for healthcare systems throughout England as part of the Department of Health.

The move is one of several changes occurring in the health department's technology arm. That same month, Executive Director Beverley Bryant will leave NHS Digital for a senior role at System C. CTO Sarah Wilkinson will replace Andy Williams, who retired at the end of March, as the division's new CEO.

During his time at the governmental body, Prof. Hughes authored the company's Data Strategy  a key aspect of the NHS Five Year Forward View.

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Wash U to rename genomic center after $10M gift
President Donald Trump invited leaders from technology companies to the White House June 19 to discuss cost effective ways of upgrading the nation's IT infrastructure, according to The Washington Post.

Apple CEO Tim Cook, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Microsoft CEO Satya Naella are just three of the 20 industry leaders to meet with President Trump to brainstorm ideas for upgrading government technology and improving its features for U.S. citizens.

The meeting is set to take place after a series of workshops on cybersecurity, cloud computing and high-skilled immigration. The majority of the meeting will focus on policy issues, such as raising the profile of public-private partnerships, The Washington Post reports.

More articles on health IT:

Dr. Larry Weed, health informatics pioneer, dies at 93

NHS loses most senior data scientist

Dr. Tom Price 'adamantly opposed' ACA's medical device tax
The Community Catalyst Action Fund, a nonprofit organization based in Boston, plans to launch a $1.5 million TV and radio advertising campaign Monday, calling on five GOP senators to vote against the emerging ACA repeal and replace healthcare bill, reports The Washington Post.

The ad campaign focuses on "the damage the bill would inflict on Americans of all ages, particularly low-income children and seniors in need of long-term care," Community Catalyst said in a news release.

"The Senate is working in secret and rushing to pass a bill that will closely mirror the AHCA passed by the House, which strips care from 23 million people, raises costs for millions more and punishes kids, seniors and people with disabilities through steep cuts to Medicaid," Robert Restuccia, executive director of Community Catalyst, added. "We think it's critical that Americans across the country understand what's at stake for them and their families if the U.S. Senate passes this bill."

The ad campaign specifically targets; Sens. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz.; Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska; Susan Collins, R-Maine; Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.; and Dean Heller R-Nev., according to the report.

The 30-second TV ads, airing over the next couple weeks in Alaska, Maine, Nevada and West Virginia, feature a boy with asthma. As the boy is wheezing, his mother goes to get medication, and the national version of the ad states: "When this happens, she isn't thinking about the healthcare bill in Congress. She isn't thinking that it'll force her to choose between filling his prescriptions or paying their mortgage. She isn't thinking that when her premiums go up, they'll loose their health insurance, and she shouldn't have to. But our senators should. So when they vote on the new healthcare bill, tell them to think about what's right for our families and vote 'no.'"

The TV ads include that national version, as well as ads targeting the specific GOP senator in the state they're airing.

Community Catalyst said there are also radio ads, which will air in Alaska, Arizona, Nevada and West Virginia, as well as digital ads that are part of the "Keep Care at Home" campaign. The campaign will include events in each state and "highlight the harm that proposed Medicaid cuts would cause for families who rely on home care," the group said.

Senate GOP leaders hope to have a vote on the healthcare bill before the Fourth of July recess. Assuming no Democrats vote for the legislation, the bill needs at least 50 of the 52 Senate Republican votes to pass.
Women go about their work at the Hawassa Industrial Park, the largest specialized apparel and textiles zone in Africa, July 13, 2016. Michael Tewelde / Xinhua

ADDIS ABABA - As part of its vision to become the manufacturing hub of Africa, Ethiopia will on Tuesday inaugurate the first phase of its flagship Chinese-built Hawassa Industrial Park.

The industrial park is said to be the first Sustainable Textile and Apparel Industrial park in the African continent with state-of-the-art infrastructural capacity.

It is one of the many projects in Ethiopia commissioned by Chinese companies that are engaged in various activities ranging from building industrial parks, setting up factories, constructing railway and other infrastructures.

Built by China Civil Engineering Corporation (CCECC), the Hawassa industrial park located in Hawassa city some 275 km south of the capital Addis Ababa was initially completed in a record time of nine months back in July 2016.

Arkebe Oqubay, Special Advisor to the Ethiopian Prime Minster, speaking in connection with the inaugural ceremony to be held on Tuesday, said that the park would be considered as a model for other industrial parks under construction in the east African country.

He said that the development of sustainable, world class specialized, export-driven and competitive industrial parks is the major target of Ethiopia so as to realize its vision towards economic development and become the manufacturing hub of the African continent.

In addition to the Hawassa industrial park, the east African country has further embarked on the development of similar other industrial zones in Kombolcha, Mekele, Kilinto, Bole Lemmi II, Dire Dawa and Adama among others, of which Mekele and Kombolcha industrial parks to be inaugurated soon.

The Ethiopian government has planned to construct 10 industrial parks across the country aiming at enhancing job opportunities, earning revenue and promoting technology transfer, while majority of the parks are under construction or constructed by Chinese companies.

CCECC, in addition to the Hawassa Industrial Park, is already constructing another industrial park in Adama city, the capital of Oromia regional state, located 99 km southeast of Addis Ababa.

The company has also recently signed a contract agreement to build industrial park in the resort city of Bahir Dar, some 552 km north of Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, at a cost of $60 million.

Li Wuliang, general manager of CCECC Ethiopia, during the signing ceremony this month, affirmed that the company will strive to finish the 75-hectare Bahir Dar industrial park, which is expected to host eight factory sheds and basic infrastructure utilities, within the agreed nine-month period.

Designed and being built by another Chinese company, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Arerti Industrial Park located some 140 km east of the capital city Addis Ababa, is another hope of Ethiopia in its quest to become Africa's manufacturing sector excellence.

Woody Lau, Business Manager at CCCC, has recently told Xinhua that Arerti Industrial Park is expected to employ about 400 persons when the first phase incorporating a ceramic plant is finished at a cost of tens of millions of US dollars.

CCCC is not new to building projects that have had strategic changes to Ethiopia, with its trademark Addis Ababa-Adama expressway, Ethiopia's first toll road, inaugurated in April 2014.

Africa's second most populous nation, with a mostly young population of about 100 million, is presently betting on investments in industrial parks to meet the demands of job market and keep the nation stable and prosperous, while the contribution from Chinese companies is massive and highly visible across the country.
The following healthcare mergers, acquisitions and general partnerships took place or were announced the week of June 12.

1. Struggling Indian River Medical Center eyes affiliation with nonprofit hospital group

Indian River Medical Center, a 332-bed nonprofit hospital in Vero Beach, Fla., is searching for a nonprofit affiliate to help the financially struggling hospital stay afloat.

2. Florida Hospital, Walgreens open 15 clinics in Tampa Bay

Orlando-based Florida Hospital  part of Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based Adventist Health System  and Deerfield, Ill.-based Walgreens opened 15 retail healthcare clinics across Tampa Bay, Fla., June 15.

3. RCCH HealthCare, UAB Health System to create cancer center

Brentwood, Tenn.-based RCCH HealthCare Partners  the parent company of Florence, Ala.-based Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital  and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System partnered to construct a comprehensive cancer treatment center.

4. Methodist Hospital, Deaconess partnership pushes forward

Henderson, Ky.-based Methodist Hospital Interim President and CEO Benny Nolen said the hospital still aims to partner with Deaconess, a six-hospital system in Evansville, Ind.

5. Palmetto Health, Greenville Health to create 13-hospital system

Columbia, S.C.-based Palmetto Health and Greenville (S.C.) Health System declared their intent to integrate June 15.

6. Foundation Health Partners joins Mayo Clinic Care Network

Foundation Health Partners, which owns Fairbanks (Alaska) Memorial Hospital, became a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network June 13.

7. Highlands Regional Medical Center affiliates with University of Kentucky cancer center

Prestonsburg, Ky.-based Highlands Regional Medical Center affiliated with the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center in Lexington.

8. Kentucky VA considers relocating to KentuckyOne hospital property

Louisville, Ky.-based Robley Rex VA Medical Center may relocate to one of two properties recently put up for sale by KentuckyOne Health, also in Louisville.

9. Quest Diagnostics acquires 2 laboratories co-owned by Baylor Scott &White, US Oncology

Madison, N.J.-based Quest Diagnostics signed definitive agreements to acquire two laboratory operations in Lewisville, Texas: Med Fusion and ClearPoint Diagnostic Laboratories.

10. Los Angeles insurer donates $500k to community hospital partner to help high-risk patients

L.A. Care Health Plan in Los Angeles donated $500,000 to its partner institution Los Angeles-based Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital to fund the organization's advanced care clinic.

11. Tennessee commission strikes down potential sale of public hospital

Williamson County commissioners decided to not pursue a proposal to create a task force to determine if selling Williamson Medical Center  a 185-bed facility in Franklin, Tenn.  is a feasible option to bring more money to the county.

12. Washington Health System to form clinically integrated network with 3 providers

Washington (Pa.) Health System revealed plans to form a clinically integrated network with Pittsburgh-based St. Clair Hospital, Greensburg, Pa.-based Excela Health and Butler (Pa.) Health System.

13. ProMedica's acquisition of Michigan health center delayed until January

Community Health Center of Branch County President and CEO Randy DeGroot said the hospital's sale to Toledo, Ohio-based ProMedica will be delayed until at least January 2018 to accommodate the passing of state legislation to make the hospital a nonprofit entity.
A patient at West Marion Community Hospital in Ocala, Fla., was arrested Saturday after authorities say he took a state trooper's gun and shot a nurse, according to WFTV.

Florida Highway Patrol approached 38-year-old Jason R. Gignac on Saturday as he was walking on I-75. FHP said this was the third time they encountered Mr. Gignac, and he told patrolmen he needed to go to the hospital. Troopers took him to West Marion Community Hospital, according to the report.

When Mr. Gignac was being discharged from the hospital, troopers tried to arrest him for failure to obey a lawful order. A struggle ensued and Mr. Gignac got hold of one of the trooper's guns. Mr. Gignac fired the gun, striking a nurse in the leg, according to FHP.

Mr. Gignac was arrested and charged with three counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest, according to the report.

The nurse is in stable condition. Florida Highway Patrol is carrying out an internal review of the incident.

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Shreveport, La.-based Overton Brooks VA Medical Center reopened its pharmacy after temporarily shutting it down after inspectors found unsanitary conditions there, according to a KSLA report.

The OIG report released June 15 details problems found during a January site visit, including lack of evidence of appropriate cleaning, lack of hand soap in the sterile compounding areas and undertrained employees.

None of the problems led to harm to patients, however. "None of the patients developed infections after intravenous infusions or injections of compounded medications," according to the OIG report.

According to KSLA, the hospital's pharmacy was closed to address the issues, but it has since reopened.

"Our patients did not experience any adverse events, interruption in care or impact to veterans' access while we addressed the findings," according to a statement sent to KSLA from Overton Brooks VA Medical Center.
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One in seven people in Northern Ireland are on a waiting list for an outpatient appointment.

Thats the highest number in the UK and twice as many as in England, a new report has revealed.

Prof John Appleby, chief economist with the Nuffield Trust, which conducts the quarterly research, told the BBC that patients here are suffering because of political inaction.

He said: "There is no doubt that people are suffering. They wait too long, they are in pain, they may die on the waiting list when they needn't have to.

"The cost of not fixing the political problem, not fixing the management problem and so on, is that people are suffering."

Stating that he is really shocked" by the figures, Prof Appleby continued. "It is totally unacceptable in a health system in Northern Ireland to have the sort of numbers waiting as long as they wait."

He noted that "one in seven of the entire Northern Ireland population", is currently on an outpatient waiting list, compared to one in fourteen in England.

"None of the waiting list targets are being met at the moment," the professor commented. "There needs to be leadership from the top on this."

According to the latest figures from the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), more than 253,000 people were waiting for their first consultant-led outpatient on March 31, 2017, up by 2.8% (6,895) on the previous quarter, and an increase of 17.6% (37,942) on the figure for March, 2016.

While guidelines state that at least half of patients should be seen within nine weeks, 69.6% of patients have been waiting longer than nine weeks and one in five, 21%, have been waiting for a year or more.

More than 70,000 patients were awaiting admission to hospital on March 31,2017, up by 5.3% from last year. More than 9,600 patients have been waiting for a year or more.

In a statement, the HSCB said: "It is clear that the current model of delivering services is not sustainable given the continued increased demand.

"It is unacceptable, the statement continued, "that any patient has to wait longer than they should for assessment or treatment".

However, increased demand and financial pressures are making longer waiting times "inevitable."

Demand, fuelled by factors such as an ageing population, higher patient expectations, improvements in technology and a wider range of available procedures, "currently exceeds capacity" for both new outpatients and inpatient/daycase treatments.

"Due to financial pressures", the statement continued, the "HSC has been unable to undertake the previous volumes of additional activity to meet the gap between demand for services and funded capacity and as a result, waiting times have grown."

The HSCB welcomed the former Ministers Elective Care Plan published in February this year. "The plan sets out a commitment to reduce the backlog of patients waiting for elective care, subject to the availability of funding, while continuing the longer term process to transform secondary, primary and community care services to meet current and future demand," the statement concluded.
Vandals who torched a disused secondary school have been condemned.

The blaze at Newtownabbey Community High in the sprawling Rathcoole estate was reported to police on Saturday afternoon.

It is understood classrooms were damaged and equipment stolen.

Condemning the incident, local UUP councillor John Scott said he was angered and frustrated.

"I was greatly saddened and angry to learn that the old Newtownabbey Community High School site was badly damaged in an arson attack on Saturday.

"Those responsible have attacked their own community and denied their own people access to a community asset.

"Local people will share my anger and frustration at this senseless act."

North Belfast Ulster Unionist spokesman Robert Foster also hit out at what he described as a "senseless act".

"For some time now the Ulster Unionist Party has been pressing the Education Authority to allow the local Rathcoole community to make use of the premises until the Education Authority decides what the site should be used for in the longer term," he said.

"Had this course of action been followed, we might have avoided the current scenario whereby anti-social elements have managed to destroy the facility.

"My feeling is one of absolute frustration at the senselessness of this act."

Last night police in Newtownabbey appealed for information in connection with the arson attack.

Sergeant Adrian Keon said: "Police received reports shortly after 4.15pm of a fire at the site of the former school and attended the scene along with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. Extensive damage was caused to some of the mobiles, and some building equipment was stolen by the perpetrators.

"I would appeal that anyone with information contact Newtownabbey station on 101, quoting reference 1003 17/06/17, or, if they wish to remain anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Originally opened as Hopefield Secondary Modern in the early 1960s, Newtownabbey Community High School merged with Monkstown Community School in 2015 to form Newtownabbey Community College.

The Rathcoole site was closed soon after the merger.
The funeral cortege makes its way through the streets

Seamus Ruddys sister Anne Morgan at his funeral at St Catherines in Newry on Saturday

Relatives of a Co Down teacher murdered and secretly buried more than 30 years ago kept the longest of vigils as they waited for his body to be returned, mourners at his funeral heard.

Requiem Mass for Seamus Ruddy, one of the so-called Disappeared, was held in his home city of Newry at the weekend.

Hundreds of mourners gathered at St Catherine's Dominican Chapel to pay their final respects.

Mr Ruddy was abducted in Paris in 1985 by the INLA before being murdered and buried. His remains were recovered in a forest near Rouen in northern France last month.

Addressing mourners at Saturday's funeral, Bishop John McAreavey said Mr Ruddy's family had suffered years of not knowing his fate.

"Whatever about the circumstances of his death, one thing is certain - his death represented the snuffing-out of a life that had many wholesome qualities," he said. "It also cut off the promise of a new life in France.

"A family account of that time refers to letters and phone calls from Seamus, visits to him and plans to visit. And then, the account states: 'There was nothing'."

Mr Ruddy was a former member of the Irish Republican Socialist Party, the political wing of the INLA. It is believed he was murdered amid a dispute with INLA members about an arms dump.

"In the years since his death Seamus's family and friends kept a long vigil," said Bishop McAreavey.

"They grieved and prayed, they appealed for public support, which they hoped would lead to the recovery of his remains."

He added: "On Thursday, Seamus's family and friends welcomed him home to Newry.

"They were finally able to do what they always wanted to do - to have a wake, to celebrate a funeral Mass for Seamus and to say a personal and dignified farewell to him through the funeral liturgy. And in the months and years ahead they will be able to visit the grave where Seamus lies."

Ahead of burying Mr Ruddy in Monks cemetery in Newry, where his parents John and Molly lie, his relatives were supported at the service by the families of other Disappeared victims.

Anne Morgan, the teacher's sister, said the other Disappeared relatives felt like part of her family, adding: "We will be forever grateful to you all."

Three of the 16 Disappeared - Columba McVeigh, Joe Lynskey and Robert Nairac - are still missing.
Chancellor Philip Hammond has been urged to publish the costs of any deals made with the DUP to prop up a Tory government.

Talks are under way between the Tories and the Northern Ireland party over a potential alliance as Theresa May needs their 10 MPs to govern after her majority was wiped out in the General Election.

However Labour's shadow chancellor John McDonnell has raised concerns over reports the DUP want to end airport tax on visitors to Northern Ireland, which generated around 90m in 2015/16, according to HMRC estimates. Abolishing Air Passenger Duty (APD) is one of the DUP's key demands as it pits Northern Ireland unfavourably against the Republic of Ireland, where the duty has been abolished.

In a letter to Mr Hammond, Mr McDonnell said: "I am writing to ask whether the Government has been asked for this measure by the DUP, has agreed to it or is considering it.

"In the interest of basic openness and transparency in government I am writing to ask that you publish any financial measures that have been discussed with the DUP and set out the financial implications of any measures agreed with this party.

"I look forward to a prompt response given the considerable public interest in this matter and its consequences for our public finances."

The Prime Minister has said she is confident of getting the Queen's Speech through the Commons, regardless of whether a deal is reached with the DUP by the time of the State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday.

A formal deal has yet to be secured but Tory sources have said there is a "broad agreement" on the principles of the speech, and State Opening will now take place on Wednesday - two days later than originally scheduled.

A Number 10 spokesman would not comment on the ongoing talks, which are understood to focus on support for key Commons votes rather than a full coalition between the parties.

Meanwhile, it has emerged that next year's Queen's Speech is being ditched by the Government to ease the way in Parliament for new Brexit laws.

In a highly unusual move, the parliamentary session is being doubled to two years.

Commons leader Andrea Leadsom said it would give MPs and peers the maximum time possible to scrutinise legislation taking the UK out of the European Union. It means the Government will not put forward a new legislative programme next year.

It comes amid growing pressure on Mrs May over her future as Prime Minister.

Tory backbencher Heidi Allen told The Sunday Times the country wanted a "leader and a party that will carry us through this most turbulent of periods but care about the little man".

"We have to change, and if we don't we deserve to die," she added.

Former Brexit minister David Jones, who was sacked in Mrs May's reshuffle, warned the PM not to row back on the exit strategy taking Britain out of the EU, telling the newspaper it would be a "betrayal of trust".

Extending the new parliamentary session will allow MPs and peers to examine Brexit laws as well as domestic reforms in depth, according to the Government. The Government said the Great Repeal Bill, which converts EU laws into British legislation, will be considered alongside other Brexit laws.
A man has been threatened at his north Belfast home by men claiming to be from an armed group, after he was named on a list claiming to 'out' drug dealers.

Threats were made against almost 50 people living in Ardoyne on a leaflet headed 'Communities Against Drugs' which was circulated less than a week ago.

It claims to name "known drug pushers", saying those named "must bring themselves forward".

However, the list's authenticity has not been confirmed and it has been condemned by several politicians.

Sinn Fein MLA Caral Ni Chuilin hit out at the threats, saying one man had been threatened at his home yesterday after he was named on the list.

Ms Ni Chuilin said: "A list containing threats against almost 50 people, made by some unnamed organisation, has been circulating in the public arena in north Belfast over recent days.

"Sinn Fein has been contacted by mental health professionals who have made it clear that quite a number of those who have threatened are vulnerable individuals.

"Today [Sunday], men claiming to be from an armed group called to the home of a man named on the list and issued threats against him.

"I condemn those responsible for this activity.

"They should withdraw the threats immediately and desist from any further actions."

Chief Inspector Stephen Burns said police were investigating. "Police are aware that some written material has been distributed in parts of north Belfast and we are currently carrying out enquiries into this matter," he stated.

"We do not discuss allegations against individuals. However, circulating material such as this is intensely unhelpful and potentially dangerous.

"While we do not discuss the security of individuals, if we receive information that a person's life may be at risk we will inform them accordingly. We never ignore anything which may put an individual at risk.

"No inference should be drawn from this.

"I also want to reassure the public that police are actively working with communities to address criminality and issues like drug dealing across all parts of Northern Ireland."

The officer said that if anyone has concerns or information about any form of criminality, they should report it to police on the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
One of the Fuse FM Mourne banners that was vandalised in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Staff and volunteers at a community radio station in Co Down have been heartened by support from the local community after banners and posters were vandalised at the weekend.

Roberta Heaney of Fuse FM Mourne, which is based in Kilkeel, said everyone at the station was "deeply disappointed and disgusted " when banners and posters they put up on Saturday afternoon were vandalised overnight.

"Some of the banners and posters were damaged or destroyed, others were stolen, in the early hours of Sunday morning, Ms Heaney told the Belfast Telegraph.

"It's especially upsetting because this is a community, voluntary radio station which helps train young people from all backgrounds.

"Volunteers put the posters and banners up on Saturday afternoon and it's hard to imagine why anyone would want to destroy them that very night."

Fuse FM Mourne, supported by the Schomberg Society's Youth Media project, works with students from local schools and youth organisations.

The incident has been reported to the PSNI, who are investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact Ardmore station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Ms Heaney said: "With the CCTV cameras that are in the town, we are hopeful that we will be able to catch these criminals. Also, a lot of people have contacted us with pictures that may be helpful."

Praising the locals, she added: "We really have been overwhelmed by the level of support from the community and local businesses. It is much appreciated."
The scene in Ardoyne of an overnight armed robbery on June 19th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

The scene in Ardoyne of an overnight armed robbery on June 19th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

The scene in Ardoyne of an overnight armed robbery on June 19th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

The scene in Ardoyne of an overnight armed robbery on June 19th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

The scene in Ardoyne of an overnight armed robbery on June 19th 2017 (Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph)

Two off-duty superheroes sprung into action on Sunday night as they confronted robbers armed with knives in a shop in north Belfast.

It happened at a store on the Ardoyne Road at around 10.45pm.

Two men, one of whom was armed with a knife, entered the store and threatened a male employee before stealing a quantity of cigarettes.

Members of the public intervened as the pair tried to flee - among them were two local men who usually dress up as superheroes for work.

One of them, who did not wish to be named, said: "We (saw) them coming down the alleyway with plastic bags on their feet. We wondered what was going on. The guy with me said he's wearing a balaclava and he started running down towards the shops.

"We (saw) him run in to the shop and ran after him. We crouched below the window. The fella working there came out and he was very calm."

The pair then waited outside and called for help from others who were at the nearby bar, one of whom they said was the "real hero".

I shouted, 'get up here there's an armed robbery'. Eyewitness

"Then I ran straight in and screamed at the fella and he was on the ground and I said 'you better stay on the ground, you are better giving up now'.

"And, as he went to run, the two fellas came in and hit him at the same time and he got knocked out."

He added: "It was quite scary it was six or seven inch blades."

I'm lucky I didn't get hurt. It was just seeing them coming down it was very stupid of them. They had plastic bags on their feet but weren't wearing any gloves. Eyewitness

He added: "The guy who apprehended him is the real hero."

A police spokeswoman said the suspect was located by police a short distance away and was arrested on suspicion of armed robbery. The 22-year-old remains in custody at present. A quantity of stolen cigarettes were also recovered.

Detective Sam McCallum said: We are appealing for witnesses to this crime to get in touch with police. Please call 101 quoting reference number 1538 18/06/17.
Expensive audio equipment which is used to record council meetings has gone missing at Belfast City Hall, it can be revealed

Expensive audio equipment which is used to record council meetings has gone missing at Belfast City Hall, it can be revealed.

All six party leaders in the council have been informed and an investigation is under way.

The Belfast Telegraph understands the equipment is worth about 700 but the police are not believed to be involved at this stage.

Efforts are being made to source a replacement machine, but it may take some time and there are concerns that it will not be available for the planning committee meeting on June 20.

As it stands there are no audio recordings of the people and communities meeting or city growth and regeneration meeting, which took place on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

A spokeswoman for Belfast City Council confirmed that the equipment is missing but said she couldn't provide further comment due to the ongoing probe. An insider told this newspaper there were fears that there were sinister forces at work.

"This is a very serious matter because the council decided that all meetings should be recorded so that members of the public can get a copy of them if they want to," said the source.

"One day the equipment was there and the next minute it had disappeared.

"No-one seems to know what happened or how somebody managed to remove it without being seen.

"We're just hoping that good conscience will kick in and the person who took it will leave it back where it belongs.

"In the meantime, it's the public who lose out."

There was anger and embarrassment last year when a Chinese tourist's handbag was stolen at City Hall.

The woman, who was accompanied by friends, was being photographed on the stairs when the distressing incident - which is thought to be a first - occurred.

Eyewitnesses reported that the handbag belonging to the woman, who was in her early 30s, was taken by a man who was seen fleeing through the front entrance of City Hall.

The woman and her friends were presented with civic gifts following the theft.

A centrepiece on Belfast's skyline, the City Hall dates back to 1898 and is one of the city's biggest tourist attractions, as Belfast remains on course to reach a milestone 10 million visitors annually.

A 1bn investment in infrastructure in the last 15 years is paying big dividends - hotel room sales are up by a third and more than 100 cruise ships are docking every year, compared with just two 18 years ago.
Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney vowed to 'spare no effort' in the process to salvage the Stormont institutions

Northern Ireland is potentially the part of Europe most vulnerable to the impact of a bad Brexit deal, Ireland's foreign minister has warned.

Newly-appointed Simon Coveney stressed the importance of getting an agreement that reflected the region's circumstances as he took part in talks to restore powersharing at Stormont.

Mr Coveney said the start of Brexit negotiations in Brussels underlined the urgent need to get devolution back up and running in Belfast.

"I think it's fair to say that Northern Ireland is perhaps the most vulnerable part of Europe to a bad Brexit deal should that happen," he said.

Mr Coveney said he would highlight the particular issues facing Northern Ireland - in regard to the peace process and cross-border movement - when he met the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Luxembourg on Tuesday.

But he said those arguments also needed to be made by a serving first and deputy first minister at Stormont.

"I think there is a sense of urgency here that Northern Ireland needs its own voice, in the context of Brexit in particular, as well as so many other issues that need to be resolved, and that without that voice people in Northern Ireland will be disadvantaged in a major way and will be essentially relying on others to make the case for them," he said.

Mr Coveney met all the five main political parties and Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire in what was his first involvement in the process since replacing Charlie Flanagan at the head of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin last week.

The participants have until June 29 to reach a deal that would see devolution returned or they face the prospect of direct rule being reimposed from Westminster.

Mr Coveney said a number of "core issues" still stand in the way of an agreement but he said he did not consider them "insurmountable".

"All of the messaging I am getting is people are up for a deal," he said.

The minister said it was important that any deal involved all five Stormont parties, and not just the DUP and Sinn Fein.

The talks take place in the context of the ongoing negotiations between Prime Minister Theresa May and the DUP to strike a parliamentary deal to support her minority Government.

Expand Close Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire is pictured with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney who is taking part in the talks for the first time. / Facebook

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Whatsapp Northern Ireland Secretary of State James Brokenshire is pictured with Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney who is taking part in the talks for the first time.

The anticipated arrangement has forced the UK government to reject suggestions its commitment to act with impartiality in Northern Ireland - as set out in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement - will be fatally undermined by any pact with the DUP.

Northern Ireland has been without a powersharing Executive since March and without a first and deputy first minister since January.

The institutions collapsed amid a bitter row between the DUP and Sinn Fein about a botched green energy scheme.

Senior DUP representative and former Stormont minister Simon Hamilton also struck a positive tone during a day that saw the first round table plenary session of a talks process that started last week.

"There have been positive engagements today between ourselves and Sinn Fein," he said.

"I think we will continue to work away on that to try to deliver devolution, to get devolution back up and running again for the people of Northern Ireland so we can deliver for them on the issues of health, education, jobs and the economy."

He added: "We see no reason why devolution and the executive can't be up and running now."

Asked if his party favoured a hard or soft Brexit, Mr Hamilton said the preference was for a "sensible Brexit".

Sinn Fein's Stormont leader, Michelle O'Neill, said her party was up for striking a deal.

"I can tell you, we are here wanting to find a deal, wanting to make the institutions work, wanting to deliver good public services, wanting to afford people their rights, wanting to deal with the issue of Brexit, but it has to be done on the basis of equality, respect and integrity in government," she said.

Asked if the Brexit process increased the pressure on her party to re-establish an Executive, Mrs O'Neill said Sinn Fein was already making the case across Europe for Northern Ireland to retain special designated EU status.

"Clearly the DUP are on the wrong side of the argument, cosying up alongside the Tory Government who are disrespecting the mandate of the people here, who asked to remain within the European Union," she added.
Three SDLP councillors in Belfast have dramatically quit the party, accusing Colum Eastwood of a lack of leadership.

Former Lord Mayor Pat Convery and councillors Declan Boyle and Kate Mullan said they had been "treated with disrespect by the party we have served for decades".

Their resignations almost halve the SDLP's already depleted City Hall team, leaving just four councillors on its benches - only one more than the Progressive Unionist Party.

While their departure won't endanger Mr Eastwood's leadership, it is a huge blow to the party coming just 10 days after its three MPs lost their Westminster seats.

The trio was suspended by party headquarters in April after abstaining from a council vote condemning the harassment of women by anti-abortion activists outside reproductive healthcare facilities. All the other councillors in the meeting, including those from the DUP, voted in favour of the resolution.

The SDLP leadership had instructed its City Hall group to support the motion, which its other four councillors did.

Last night the party said party procedure had been followed, but the councillors had "decided not to participate in that process".

The three who abstained told the Belfast Telegraph that they were quitting the party with "profoundly heavy hearts".

They said they would not resign their seats but would continue to sit on the council as "independents". They stated that they had "no current plans" to join another party.

Mr Convery, a former SDLP vice-chairman who was first elected to Belfast City Council 16 years ago for the Castle ward, said: "I never thought it would come to this. I've been SDLP all my life, my family are SDLP.

"The party I joined was one of inclusiveness and I feel that no longer applies.

"The SDLP needs to go back to its roots of being a broad church where everyone is welcome."

The councillor said that "moral issues should be matters of personal conscience and party policy should reflect that".

Mr Boyle claimed that their request for a meeting with Mr Eastwood had not been granted.

"We have been treated very shabbily. Between us, we have over 50 years' SDLP membership," he said.

"Whether people agree or don't agree with how we voted, I reckon most would think we at least deserved a meeting with the leader to discuss the issue.

"For that not to happen, for Colum Eastwood not to meet us, is a poor show.

"We have seen a total lack of leadership. There is much more to running a party than performing well in TV debates."

Ms Mullan said: "It is a very sad day for me to be leaving the SDLP but it is impossible to remain in a party that has treated me this badly. It should never have reached this stage."

She said that the trio had held back from resigning before the Westminster election so as not to damage the party's chances.

"We purposely didn't make a fuss about any of this or resign before polling day," she added.

"We did the honourable thing and hung on. We hoped that the matter would be resolved to everybody's satisfaction after the election but that hasn't happened.

"It's now two-and-a-half months since we were suspended and we can't carry on in limbo any more. It's embarrassing when you're trying to help constituents and they ask if you're still suspended."

Mr Boyle said that the suspensions meant that he and councillor Mullan had been unable to canvass for Alasdair McDonnell in the Westminster election.

"Kate and I both represent areas in South Belfast where it was a do-or-die battle against the DUP," he said. "At a time when all hands were required on deck, Alasdair was deprived of two local councillors on the campaign trail.

"I put up 1,000 posters but I couldn't knock doors in my own street to ask people to vote for him because it would have been embarrassing and harmed the party had voters raised my suspension."

The motion before the council on April 3 was proposed by Green councillor Georgina Milne, who said she had been contacted by sexual health clinics concerned that people entering their premises were being forced to "run a gauntlet of intimidation and harassment".

Ms Milne and the PUP's Julie-Anne Corr-Johnston, who seconded the motion, said any councillor's position on a woman's right to choose was irrelevant because the issue was about protecting people from intimidation.

The three councillors told the Belfast Telegraph that they "totally opposed the harassment and intimidation of women" and abstained from the vote "as the SDLP are a pro-life party".

Four days after the vote, councillors Convery, Boyle and Mullan received a letter from SDLP chief whip, South Down MLA Colin McGrath, informing them of their suspension.

"Your vote has brought considerable disrepute to the party in all forms of print, broadcast and social media and was contrary to party policy and to the direction sought and provided from the party on the day," it said.

Explaining that the whip would be withdrawn from them "for a period", Mr McGrath continued: "It is with regret that I have had to take this action as your record has been hitherto exemplary. It is the party leadership's intention to discuss this matter with you in due course. I am happy to discuss any element of this disciplinary action."

Mr Boyle said that it was wrong for disciplinary action to be taken against the trio before the party hierarchy met them.

"We weren't given the chance to make our case at a meeting. We were sentenced in advance of that in a draconian approach," he said.

The councillors were told a disciplinary panel would be set up, but wrangling over whether a meeting with the party leadership should happen first meant it never occurred.

The trio's solicitor Joe Rice said: "The SDLP leadership showed no respect for three experienced and distinguished councillors and no appetite to resolve issues which clearly affected the party's pro-life stance.

"The party's rules and mechanisms to deal with this disciplinary issue were at best vague and at worst deficient or non-existent."

In a statement, the SDLP said that following a breach of party discipline, the three councillors had the party whip withdrawn.

It added: "The party process has been followed to deal with the matter. The councillors decided not to participate in that process. We thank them for their service."

The trio

Kate Mullan

Kate Mullan was elected on to Belfast City Council in 2011. She represents the Lisnasharragh area of the city.

She has also worked in Alasdair McDonnells constituency office.

Pat Convery

Pat Convery has represented the Castle area of north Belfast since June 2001. He served as Lord Mayor in 2010 and was SDLP group leader at the time of the vote in April.

Declan Boyle

Elected in 2014 in the Botanic ward, Declan Boyle was one of the partys most high-profile councillors.

He is a landlord in the university area of south Belfast.
The Scottish government has repeated its intention to consider providing free abortions for Northern Ireland women on the NHS.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's First Minister, is reported to be discussing the matter with the country's Chief Medical Officer Catherine Calderwood.

Last November, during First Minister's questions at Holyrood, she had previously confirmed she would be "happy to explore that" when asked if the NHS in Scotland should provide financial assistance to women from here seeking abortions.

Abortion remains illegal in Northern Ireland except for cases where the woman's physical or mental health is at serious risk.

The interest from Holyrood comes days after the Supreme Court rejected an appeal for women here to have abortions in England paid for by the NHS.

A case had been taken against the UK Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, after a girl who was aged 15 in 2012 travelled to Manchester for an abortion to be told she would face a bill of hundreds of pounds.

Figures from the Department of Health in England revealed last week that 724 women from Northern Ireland made the journey to England or Wales for abortions - nearly two a day.

The overall figure was down from the 2015 total of 833.

The Sunday Times reported yesterday that some Northern Ireland women were already gaining free abortions in Scotland by naming the address of a Scottish friend as their home.

Medics are alleged to turn a blind eye to the fact the women are not living in Scotland.

The Scottish government is reported to be anxious that even consulting on the issue will disrupt this process and make access to abortions even more difficult.

A government spokesman told the Sunday Times: "We are supportive of all women having access to safe and legal abortions. We will carefully consider (last week's) Supreme Court Judgement and the implications it may have in Scotland."

The DUP previously lobbied the Scottish Government to stop same-sex civil partners.

Patrick Harvie, co-convener of the Scottish Greens, also spoke out about the "malign" influence of the DUP on the UK government.

He added that Northern Ireland did not have "the kind of human rights we expect in the modern world".

He said: "If Scotland can do anything to lead the way for progress on equality and human rights on these islands then I would very much welcome it."

The DUP were contacted for a response on the story but have yet to respond.

Last November, DUP MP Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he was disappointed that Mrs Sturgeon was seeking to "interfere in what is a very sensitive issue here in Northern Ireland".
A troubled teenage girl has said that Northern Ireland's "dysfunctional" mental health facilities are failing a generation of young people.

The 16-year-old's comments come as Northern Ireland's Children's Commissioner launched an independent review of services and support for children and young people amid concerns they are inadequate.

Natasha Murphy - who admitted that she bites herself until she bleeds - told the Belfast Telegraph that she wanted to share her personal experience in order to help others in similar situations.

In an exclusive interview, the Co Antrim teenager, who is autistic and suffers from diabetes, said she had been self-harming and suffering panic attacks since her father died three years ago.

She also has had suicidal thoughts, and although finally receiving professional help after waiting for over a year, she's not sure it's helping.

"The idea of a support system is there - but I don't think it's the right type of support for me," she said.

"I actually feel worse after visiting a specialist, not better."

It's estimated that more than one in five young people in Northern Ireland experiences a significant mental health problem by the time they are 18, and rates of poor mental health are likely to be pointedly higher for those who have been in care or those with long-term illness or disability.

Rates of suicide in under 18s are also disproportionately higher across the province compared to other parts of the UK, while the number of under 19s presenting to A&E for self-harm has been increasing.

Since 2012 there has been a year-on-year increase of prescribed antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs for under 16s such as Natasha, who welcomed a review which, she feels, is long overdue. Children's Commissioner Koulla Yiasouma said she was concerned that the current provision was not fit for purpose.

"Despite the lack of official data, it is clear the mental health needs of children and young people are increasing, both in terms of scale and complexity and this has led to greater pressure on services," she said.

"This lack of available data on mental health need and insufficient monitoring and evaluation of mental health services is one of the key challenges facing our mental health system.

"For example, we don't know the scale of poor mental health in under 18s because that type of data is not collected."

The Commissioner said that only 7.8% of Northern Ireland's mental health budget is actually allocated to the child and adolescent mental health system, which is below the 10% UK average.

That is despite the fact rates of poor mental health are 25% higher here than in England.

One of the main thrusts of the review centres on hearing from children and young people about their experiences of accessing or trying to access services.

"I urge children and young people aged 11 to 21 along with their parents and carers who have had, or have tried to get help for their mental health, to visit our online survey (NICCY.org/SpeakYourMind) so their experiences are captured and can help shape the future of mental health services," said Ms Yiasouma.

"This review offers an unprecedented opportunity for them to share their experience of getting or trying to get help for their mental health."
It's not every day you get a message from Liam Neeson telling you how proud he is of you.

But that's exactly what happened to pupils at a Northern Ireland primary school who received a special message of encouragement and praise from the Hollywood star.

The Ballymena man sent the message to Mallusk Integrated Primary School from Chicago.

He told them they had the "most fantastic little school" and congratulated the teachers, staff and the pupils.

He said: "Because you respect each other and make sure no-one is left out, you keep each other very safe and happy, you share with each other and every day you try your best.

"I'm very proud of you, keep up the great work."

The Taken star is a huge advocate for Integrated Education and, in February, he released a short video supporting an initiative from the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) to make integrated education available in almost every school across the region.

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The school's principal Suzanne Kinsella told the Belfast Telegraph, with that in mind, they wanted Liam to know what their school was doing.

She said: "We transformed two years ago and have been developing the ethos of the school, growing our enrolment working with the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and IEF to progress the school.

"We have been revamping and updating everything going on in the school."

The children were very excited when they received the video message.

Ms Kinsella said: "We've got a lot of Star Wars fans in the school - the staff and the parents were even more excited.

The comments Liam makes about the children sharing with each other is part of their ethos.

She said: "Those are the rules for the school that the children made themselves. He was referring to that, about them keeping those. They receive prizes for that and for being friendly and respecting each other."
There is no such thing as a religious divide in one border town after it emerged that Catholics and Protestants will now be praying under the same roof.

From today St Maeldoid's Church of Ireland in Castleblayney, Co Monaghan, will throw open its doors to its neighbours at St Mary's Church, after the latter closed for renovations.

It means there will be weekly Protestant services, as well as Masses and other Catholic ceremonies, in the same building at different times, until work is completed on St Mary's next June.

Local Church of Ireland rector Rev Neal Phair told the Belfast Telegraph his congregation was looking forward to sharing their place of worship with their Catholic neighbours.

"I'm good friends with Fr Pat McHugh, the parish priest at St Mary's, so when he told me about the year-long renovation project I told him he could have the use of our church," he explained.

"My parishioners are absolutely delighted; there's a very good community spirit in Castleblayney and everybody was fully behind the initiative. Everyone thinks it's great news and a lovely idea It's fantastic that we can help each other out."

Fortunately, there won't be any clashes when it comes to services; Rev Phair's main service is at 10am on Sundays, while Mass has been put back from 11.30am to 11.45am "to give us time to get out and them time to come in and get prepared", he said.

The rector welcomed the collaboration between the two churches "which are very similar theologically and work very well together anyway". He added: "Our two Bishops of Clogher always issue joint Easter and Christmas messages and there's a lot of co-operation between the Church of Ireland and the Catholic Church.

"We have a vast amount in common and we already share other services, such as the week of prayer for Christian unity, and Fr Pat and I are very ecumenically-minded and we would like to do as much as possible together.

"The more Christians can come together, the far more potent the voice will be, and it's a very positive image for Christianity as a whole."

A spokesman for the parish council at St Mary's Church said: "This is a huge development in interdenominational relations and it sets a headline for the country."

The Church of Ireland Bishop of Clogher, Right Rev John McDowell, said: "We are delighted to offer our church as a place of worship for our brothers."

Fr McHugh said: "Thanks to the kind spirit of good neighbourliness and generosity on the part of the local Church of Ireland community, we are very fortunate to have the use of St Maeldoid's Church."

There will be some changes to the timing of services to facilitate both congregations. Parishioners at St Mary's were told of plans to use the Church of Ireland church in the Muckno Parish Newsletter.
Picture taken with permission from the Twitter feed of Thomas Van Hulle @Thomasvanhulle showing police activity on the Seven Sisters Road in north London (Thomas Van Hulle/PA)

The family of the man held by police over the Finsbury Park attack say they are massively shocked and their hearts go out to the injured.

Darren Osborne, a 47-year-old who is believed to be a father-of-four from Cardiff, was arrested after pedestrians were targeted by a man driving a van near Finsbury Park Mosque in north London early on Monday.

A statement on behalf of the family said: We are massively shocked; its unbelievable, it still hasnt really sunk in.

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We are devastated for the families, our hearts go out to the people who have been injured.

They said the 47-year-old was not a racist and had never expressed racist views, adding: Its madness. It is obviously sheer madness.

The London Ambulance Service took nine people to three London hospitals. Two others were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

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Witnesses described hearing a van driver, who was detained by members of the public at the scene, shout: Im going to kill Muslims.

The man was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but Scotland Yard said he was later arrested for the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder.

Residents near Cardiff said they were shocked after seeing photographs of their neighbour being arrested in London.

In a telephone interview with ITV News, his mother described him as a complex person but said thats all I can say.

The woman, who is not being named, broke down in tears.

She said: Its a terrible, terrible shock.

Police have been searching a residential address in Pentwyn, where Osborne is listed as living.

Five residents identified images of the man being arrested as their neighbour, Osborne, who according to reports is originally from Somerset.

Neighbour Khadijeh Sherizi said: I saw him on the news and I thought oh my God that is my neighbour.

He has been so normal. He was in his kitchen yesterday afternoon singing with his kids. He was the dad of the family. He has kids. He lives next door. He seemed polite and pleasant to me. I just cant believe it.

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Scotland Yard said the attack unfolded while a man who had taken ill was receiving first aid from the public.

He was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:04am.

A spokesman said police investigations are continuing to establish whether there is any link between his death and the attack adding: The man suspected of driving the van was detained by members of the public at the scene.

The suspect, who is believed to have been from Weston-super-Mare, remains in custody at a south London police station.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud was hailed for his efforts to prevent a mob attack and calm the situation before police arrived in shielding the suspected terrorist from the fury of onlookers.

He said: By Gods grace we managed to surround him and protect him from any harm.

We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him that were coming from every angle.

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Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said it is being treated as a terrorist incident adding: The investigation is ongoing and we are working fast to know the full details of how and why this took place.

All the victims were from the Muslim community and we will be deploying extra police patrols to reassure the public, especially those observing Ramadan.

The suspect, who is believed to have been from Weston-super-Mare, remains in custody at a south London police station.
A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering an 18-year-old woman who was found with neck injuries in a park in Wigan (Yui Mok/PA)

A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering an 18-year-old woman who was found with neck injuries in a park in Wigan.

The 51-year-old was arrested at an address in Preston, Lancashire, on Sunday evening, with police searches of his property ongoing.

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The body of Ellen Higginbottom was discovered in Orrell Water Park at about 2.30am on Saturday. Her family raised the alarm on Friday evening after she failed to return from college. A post-mortem examination revealed Miss Higginbottom died from multiple wounds to the neck.

A 47-year-old man from Billinge, Wigan, who was held earlier on Sunday on suspicion of murder remains in police custody for questioning.

Detective Superintendent Howard Millington, from Greater Manchester Polices Major Incident Team, said: It is unimaginable what Ellens family and friends must be going through right now, and my thoughts continue to be with them throughout all of this.

Last night we made a second arrest after our investigation identified an address in Preston. Today we will search the address whilst the man is in custody for questioning.

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I wish to again thank the public for their help in this investigation. Their support and the information we have been given has been vital in this investigation.

Whilst we have now made two arrests, our investigation continues as we piece together the puzzle to find out what exactly happened to Ellen on Friday and give her family the answers they deserve.

Anyone with any information should contact police on 0161 856 9908, alternatively call 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard is warning IS militants that missile attacks launched into eastern Syria can be repeated

Iran has said its ballistic missile strike targeting Islamic State in Syria was not only a response to deadly attacks in Tehran, but a powerful message to rival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The launch, which hit Syria's eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night, appeared to be Iran's first missile attack abroad in more than 15 years and its first in the Syrian conflict, in which it has provided crucial support to embattled president Bashar Assad.

It comes amid the worsening of a long-running feud between Shiite powerhouse Iran and Saudi Arabia, which supports Syrian rebels and has led recent efforts to isolate the Gulf nation of Qatar.

It also raises questions about how US President Donald Trump's administration, which had previously put Iran "on notice" for its ballistic missile tests, will respond.

Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard, a paramilitary force in charge of the country's missile programme, said it launched six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan.

State television footage showed the missiles on truck missile launchers in the daylight before being launched at night.

The missiles flew over Iraq before striking what the Guard called an IS command centre and suicide car bomb operation in Deir el-Zour, more than 600 kilometres (370 miles) away.

The extremists have been trying to fortify their positions in the Syrian city in the face of a US-led coalition onslaught on Raqqa, the group's de facto capital.

Syrian opposition activist Omar Abu Laila, who is based in Germany but closely follows events in his native Deir el-Zour, said two Iranian missiles fell near and inside the eastern town of Mayadeen, an IS stronghold.

He said there were no casualties from the strikes. IS did not immediately acknowledge the strikes.

Iraqi politician Abdul-Bari Zebari said his country agreed to the missile overflight after co-ordination with Iran, Russia and Syria.

The Guard described the missile strike as revenge for attacks on Tehran earlier this month that killed at least 18 people and wounded more than 50, the first such IS assault in the country.

But the missiles sent a message to more than just the extremists in Iraq and Syria, General Ramazan Sharif of the Guard told state television in a telephone interview.

"The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message," he said.

"Obviously and clearly, some reactionary countries of the region, especially Saudi Arabia, had announced that they are trying to bring insecurity into Iran."

Sunday's missile strike came amid recent confrontations in Syria between US-backed forces and pro-government factions.

The US recently deployed a truck-mounted missile system into Syria as Assad's forces cut off the advance of America-backed rebels along the Iraqi border.

Meanwhile, the US on Sunday shot down a Syrian aircraft for the first time, marking a new escalation of the conflict as Russia warned it would consider any US-led coalition planes in Syria west of the Euphrates River to be targets.

The Zolfaghar missile, unveiled in September 2016, was described at the time as carrying a cluster warhead and being able to strike as far as 700 kilometres (435 miles) away.

That puts the missile in range of the forward headquarters of the US military's Central Command in Qatar, American bases in the United Arab Emirates and the US navy's 5th Fleet in Bahrain.

The missile could also strike Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.

While Iran has other ballistic missiles it says can reach longer distances, Sunday's strike appears to be the furthest carried out abroad.

Iran's last foreign missile strike is believed to have been carried out in April 2001, targeting an exiled Iranian group in Iraq.

Iran has described the Tehran attackers as being "long affiliated with the Wahhabi", an ultraconservative form of Sunni Islam practised in Saudi Arabia.

However, it stopped short of directly blaming the kingdom for the attack, though many in the country have expressed suspicion that Iran's regional rival had a hand in the assault.

Since Mr Trump took office, his administration has put new economic sanctions on those allegedly involved with Iran's missile programme as the Senate has voted for applying new sanctions on Iran.

However, the test launches have not affected Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Israel is also concerned about Iran's missile launches and has deployed a multilayered missile defence system.

When Iran unveiled the Zolfaghar in 2016, it bore a banner printed with a 2013 quote by Khamenei saying that Iran will annihilate the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa should Israel attack Iran.

Israeli security officials said on Monday they were studying the missile strike to see what they could learn about its accuracy and capabilities.

"We are following their actions. And we are also following their words," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

"And I have one message to Iran: Do not threaten Israel."

Iranian officials meanwhile offered a series of threats of more strikes, including former Guard chief General Mohsen Rezai.

He wrote on Twitter: "The bigger slap is yet to come."

AP
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has launched a series of missile strikes on eastern Syria over Islamic State-claimed attacks on Tehran.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard has launched a series of missile strikes on eastern Syria over Islamic State-claimed attacks on Tehran.

The Guard's website, as well as semi-official news agencies, reported the strikes on Deir el-Zour in Syria.

The Guard's website said it launched surface-to-surface medium-range missiles targeting the area.

It did not immediately offer other specifics, other than to say the missiles were launched from Iran.

Such an attack is rare in Syria's long-running civil war, in which Iran is backing embattled Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Five Islamic State-linked attackers stormed Iran's parliament and a shrine to revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini this month, killing at least 17 people and wounding more than 50.
Well, I finally found something on which I agree unreservedly with Gerry Adams. We liked Animal, who came to fame in the 1970s TV puppet comedy series The Muppet Show.

However, that was a very long time ago and I have moved on, but at the general election count in Belfasts Titanic Exhibition Centre, Mr Adams was demonstrating his enduring loyalty by wearing the characters image on his pink fluorescent novelty socks.

When he flashed them on a tweet that night (More snappers taking pics of my socks than candidates Not much else doing. Counts continuing. By the way its Animal. Beware the Beast), it wasnt just a sign that he was attention-seeking.

It was a signal that he was keeping his options open in case election results required him to show a human rather than threatening side.

When in the 1980s I began to know Northern Ireland politicians well, I passed through the stage of being beguiled by nationalist charm and repelled by unionist truculence until I reached the conclusion that, when you looked at substance rather than style, unionists were frequently nicer than they seemed and nationalists the opposite.

Republicans, of course, were a different matter.

While there are individual Sinn Fein supporters for whom I have a reluctant liking, I have nothing but contempt for the leadership of the cult which Adams, Martin McGuinness and their comrades fashioned out of their murder machine.

Ive known a fair few Protestant bigots, but what made Sinn Fein so dreadful was the way in which it taught its supporters to hate their neighbours by wildly exaggerating historical wrongs, demonising their victims, and embracing all the propaganda techniques of George Orwells Ministry of Truth in 1984.

Earlier this month I was at University College London, where I was one of 50 readers of a start-to-finish filmed live reading of 1984, revisiting yet again a book about a party that seeks power entirely for its own sake. It is not interested in the good of others; it is interested solely in power.

This is a wonderful novel that every politically curious person in Northern Ireland should read and reread as they struggle to understand how Sinn Fein can successfully lie and lie and lie and twist reality.

One of Orwells inventions was Newspeak, which, when applied to a party member, meant a loyal willingness to say that black is white when Party discipline demands this.

But blackwhite also required the ability to believe that black is white, and, more, to know that black is white, and to forget that one has ever believed the contrary.

It involves slavish devotion to party leader Big Brother.

Blackwhite, explained Orwell, demands a continuous alteration of the past, made possible by the system of thought which really embraces all the rest, and which is known in Newspeak as doublethink.

Doublethink is basically the power of holding two contradictory beliefs in ones mind simultaneously, and accepting both of them.

Remind you of anyone?

Mick Fealty, the founder of the invaluable blogsite sluggerotoole.com, has pointed out that since, to Sinn Feins consternation, the DUP matters in Westminster and is playing its cards well, Mr Adams is doing his speaking from both corners of the mouth now even in the one statement. He said We dont believe that any deal between the DUP here and the English Tories will be good for the people here. And also that: We never turn up our nose at good deeds. Lets wait until we see what sort of deal is done.

Annoying all but the faithful by refusing to participate in either Stormont or Westminster, Mr Adams is suffering from the loss of the smarter and wiser Mr McGuinness. Will he be intransigent or co-operative? Gerry reminds me of a man standing trapped in the corner of a room looking at the job he has done painting the floor with slow-drying paint, was one Slugger comment.

Even with the help of his novelty socks, hell have trouble coming well out of this one.
A statute of limitations for security forces would mean that any collusive element to cases such as Claudy, Kingsmill, or Loughinisland (pictured) would make prosecutions of the paramilitaries involved very difficult

A statute of limitations for security forces would mean that any collusive element to cases such as Claudy, Kingsmill (pictured), or Loughinisland would make prosecutions of the paramilitaries involved very difficult

A statute of limitations for security forces would mean that any collusive element to cases such as Claudy (pictured), Kingsmill, or Loughinisland would make prosecutions of the paramilitaries involved very difficult

In light of the likely agreement between the DUP and the Conservative Party, there has been speculation on whether a side-deal might exist on a statute of limitations for legacy offences committed by the security forces. The idea was raised by the DUP in a Commons debate and appeared in its manifesto. It was also proposed in a recent Defence Select Committee report. Such a move would present very serious legal and practical difficulties.

The United Kingdom Parliament is sovereign, and so introducing some form of amnesty or statute of limitations (the terms are interchangeable in this instance) is legally possible under UK law. However, as the Defence Committee correctly acknowledged, such legislation would have to be accompanied by some form of truth recovery process.

An amnesty would be outside the terms of the Stormont House Agreement (SHA). None of the parties argued in favour of an amnesty during the negotiations.

With a consultation on the SHA legacy legislation likely to start soon, arguing for the legislation to provide an amnesty would represent quite a departure for the DUP.

Equally, it's hardly credible to claim that amnesty discussions in Westminster are somehow separate from the local legacy negotiations.

The Defence Committee also stated that the decision on whether the statute of limitations should include paramilitaries was for the next government to consider. I cannot see how one can be introduced without extending it to them.

A statute of limitations for security forces only is what the United Nations has referred to as a "self-amnesty", wherein an amnesty "is adopted by those responsible for human rights violations to shield themselves from accountability". Other jurisdictions which introduced such self-amnesties have included Argentina, Chile and Brazil. Such amnesties are often introduced by outgoing military dictatorships to protect those loyal to the previous regime. For the UK to join such a list would be quite extraordinary.

Moreover, as the UN and a number of international courts have noted, self-amnesties breach international law as "by their nature, (they) epitomise impunity".

A further legal challenge for a 'State actors only' amnesty is what would happen in cases involving collusion between the State and loyalists or republicans. For example, we know that a small number of UDR and RUC personnel were members of loyalist paramilitary organisations or acted in tandem with such groups. Would an amnesty apply to such activities?

Another illustration of the messiness of such a process is illustrated by the Stakeknife case. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher is currently heading up the investigation into the activities of the alleged former agent and head of IRA internal security. Boutcher's investigation explicitly includes members of the IRA, British Army, security services or other Government agencies.

If such an amnesty is introduced, any evidence amassed by Mr Boutcher could not be used in prosecutions against security force or security services (e.g. M15) personnel. Would that guarantee extend to IRA members who were also British agents? Moreover, if he produces evidence against former IRA members, their lawyers are likely to argue that the statute of limitations (which would inevitably obscure the involvement of agent handlers) would represent an abuse of process against their clients.

In short, a statute of limitations for security forces would mean that any collusive element to cases such as Kingsmill, Claudy or Loughinisland would make prosecutions of the paramilitaries involved very difficult.

Arguments have been made that the rationale for the security forces amnesties was to redress a perceived imbalance between State actors and the treatment of paramilitary prisoners or suspects post-Belfast Agreement. Certainly, equality of treatment and non-discrimination are long established principles of both human rights and British common law. These arguments will be tested in court.

One argument has been a perceived imbalance in conflict-related prosecutions, particularly since Barra McGrory became Director of Public Prosecutions in 2011. However, as The Telegraph reported earlier this year, since 2011 seven republicans have been prosecuted, three loyalists, three soldiers and one police officer.

Another argument raised was that the early release provisions of the Good Friday Agreement did not apply to soldiers or police officers. That legislation, the Northern Ireland Sentences Act 1998, means that no one convicted of a pre-1998 scheduled offence can serve more than two years.

It is true that anyone convicted of an offence committed before 1973 - when 'scheduling' was introduced - is still liable to serve his or her full sentence. That anomaly needs to be addressed. However, there is nothing in the Sentences Act to suggest that soldiers or police officers would be ineligible for the two-year cap.

The final important argument to justify the statute of limitations proposals was that republican suspects had benefited from the on-the-run (OTR) letters that amounted to a de facto amnesty.

However, as the judge made clear in the failed Hyde Park bombing case against John Downey, and was confirmed categorically by Lady Hallett in her review of the OTR scheme, these letters did not amount to an amnesty.

The effect of OTR letters was to tell their recipients that there were no current charges or evidence against them. However, unlike an amnesty, they did not rule out a future prosecution if evidence emerged.

The reason why the shallowness of the arguments justifying a statute of limitations for State actors is important is that the principles of equality and non-discrimination work both ways.

In any case involving the post-conflict prosecution of a paramilitary suspect, even one not involving collusion, the fairness of the amnesty for State actors would inevitably be raised. Again, the legal effect of the amnesty for State actors could be to make any prosecutions extremely difficult.

Senior members of the Conservative Party appear to be aware of the difficulties associated with a statute of limitations 'for security forces only'.

In an interview with a Belfast newspaper after the Defence Committee report was released, its Tory chairman Dr Julian Lewis MP suggested that victims might have to be "big hearted" and accept that sacrificing the possibility of paramilitary prosecutions might be the price for protecting ex-military personnel from prosecution.

To my mind, that is a very big ask. Dr Lewis was at least being honest.

The alternative, of course, is to simply drop the talk of a statute of limitations and implement the SHA, that contains no such provisions.

Kieran McEvoy is Professor of Law and Transitional Justice at Queen's University Belfast
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Do you know what it means to be inclusive, and why this innocuous little word is the key to a better future?

If youre not sure, lets start with a basic definition. The word inclusive simply means containing something as part of a whole. In essence, if something is inclusive, it is willing to include things outside of itself.

Faith is a subject we dont often associate with inclusivity. In fact, the word exclusive may be a better descriptor. There is an inherent tension present within the worlds largest religions, a sort of us vs. them mentality, and this tension is a major source of the seemingly limitless strife we see today in the news, on the web, and in our lives.

This isnt newour contemporary age might seem like the most divided in history, but this is far from the truth. Faith-based turmoil, especially regarding the Abrahamic religions of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, has been going on for thousands of years, resulting in dehumanization, cruelty, exile, and, at times, even death.

Some might suggest that peace will only come when religion is gone and rational, secular thought is all there is. This is the answer many want, but not the answer humanity needs. Religion gives humanity a connection to the mysterious, and hints at answers to the questions we cannot answer. Humanity is engaged in the constant pursuit of meaning, of overarching purpose, and faith connects many people to that purpose in a fulfilling way. When we find a positive, moral framework upon which to shape our livessuch as what we see in the teachings of Christ, Muhammad, or the Buddha, for examplethat makes the world a better place.

The worlds largest and most influential religions also have enormous potential to address social problems. The Catholic Church, for example, is the largest charitable organization in the world, with over 1.2 billion members working to heal social ills all over the globe. Think of the good that people, united under the banners of their respective faiths, could do.

So, nothe elimination of faith is not the answer to our cultural ills. This this merely another form of exclusivity, and an invalidation of a valid and useful way of life that is embraced by billions.

What we needwhat faith needsis to embrace inclusivity. It is in that word that we find our answer.

The Perils of Exclusive Faith

Exclusive faith doesnt always come from a place of hatred, but rather a misguided zeal. Religious groups which hold strict, absolutist views are attractive. The wholehearted commitment to a certain set of beliefs that marks these groups fulfills the very purpose of religion and faith by explaining the meaning of life in ultimate terms, in the words of sociologist Dean Kelly, author of Why Conservative Churches are Growing. In a sense, exclusivity, fanatical evangelism, and hostility toward those who do not share their beliefs gives members of these groups a greater sense of purpose.

But even as these groups gain a greater sense of purpose, they become less and less able to actually fulfill that purpose. They cut themselves off from the very people they mean to proselytize when they display open hostility toward them, when they excise them from their groups and turn their backs on the rest of humanity.

And whats moreat least as far as the Abrahamic religions are concernedhostile exclusivity isnt supported by holy texts. The Quran, for instance, the prophet Muhammad says To you be your religion, to me be mine. In the Bible, it is telling that the only people Christ is hostile to are the judgmental religious leaders of the time. And even when God orders His people to war in the Old Testament, it is only because He is omnipotent, and can see all ends, and knows that these actions will result in the greater good. With the exception of divine intervention, humans are commanded, as Christ said, to love God and love one another.

Exclusivity may feel like religious strength and conviction, but in reality, its a stumbling block for any faith that has aspirations to make the world a better place.

Embracing Inclusive Faith

Brian McLaren, in his book, Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha, and Mohammed Cross the Road, asks an important question: Why is it that the choice among churches always seems to be the choice between intelligence on ice and ignorance on fire?

Its truefor example, Christian groups are divided between what are generally known as separatist Christians and cultural Christians. Cultural Christians are often considered inclusive, but theologically weak and lukewarm. Separatist Christians are those weve already talked about, and are considered theologically strong and on fire, but hostile and exclusive. Neither camp is truly able to fulfill the purpose of religion in a positive way.

But there is, in fact, a way to be both strong in faith, and inclusive in practice. We can have both wisdom and fire.

Gabe Lyons, in his book, The Next Christians, argues that Christians should approach faith as restorers, endeavoring to infuse the world with beauty, grace, justice, and love.

This concept, which could be applied to any faith, is the answer to religious strife.

McLaren goes on, writing that One can conceive of a high-demand religious movement devoted to justice, freedom, beauty, respect for others, and so on, which could effectively explain to [humankind] without fanaticism, absolutism, intolerance, or judgmental moralism. That is what  ideally  Christianity ought to be.

Ideally, this is what faith should be. This is the attitude that can unlock the potential of religion, while simultaneously removing its harmful attributes.

In the end, we can steadfastly hold to the truths of our faith without mocking, condemning, or excluding others. That is, quite likely, the behavior that each of the major faiths founders would have displayed.

Uncommon Belief

McLarens book concludes with a hopeful call to action, as he writes, As the twenty-first century unfolds, the need for this ideal-but-as-yet-uncommon Christianity becomes more acute. Thats where people like you and me come in. It remains for us to explore and embody the possibilitythe possibility of a Christian faith that combines certain key elements of conservative new-line Christianity (strength, commitment, intensity of meaning) with other elements of liberal old-line Christianity (ecumenicism, reasonableness, a peaceable attitude).

This kind of faith may never be the most popular, but it is just the lifeline we need if we are to maintain both the purpose-giving beauty of faith, and the love for our fellow man that rests in every human heart.

Wesley Baines is a graduate student at Regent University's School of Divinity, and a freelance writer working in the fields of spirituality, self-help, and religion. He is also a former editor at Beliefnet.com. You can catch more of his work at www.wesleybaines.com.
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There is, perhaps, no religious schism more famous than that which gave birth to Protestantism as it split from the Roman Catholic Church. What followed changed the face of Christianity, creating the deepest division of beliefs in its history.

Before this, Christianity had developed along one fairly straightforward path. In the 11th century, the Great Schism saw the Christian Church divided into Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, but these two faiths were much more similar than they were differentProtestantism represented a wholly different set of ideas.

But today, these two faiths seem to be inching closer in their practice, if not their doctrines, and the promise of unity may be on the horizon. The vice president of Germanys Protestants, Petra Boss-Huber, recently spoke with DW, claiming that Pope Francis and Martin Luther have the same aims, including social justice, liberation, and religious teachings that everyone can understand and be transformed by.

Is there, as Boss-Huber speculates, a chance that this centuries-old chasm might be crossed, and whats more, does it need to be crossed?

Lets find out.

A History of Division

The beef between these two main branches of the Christian faith began in the 16th century with an event called the Protestant Reformation.

In 1517, a German professor of moral theology named Martin Luther published a document called the Ninety-five Theses, which, at the most basic level, argued against abusive practices by Catholic religious leaders. Chiefly, Luther battled the sale of plenary indulgences, which were certificates that the Catholic Church claimed could reduce a persons punishment for sins.

In essence, the preachers who sold these indulgences said Give us money, and maybe God wont smite you quite as hard.

Luther felt that repentance could not be bought, but came only through true sorrow for sin, and that these indulgences fooled Christians into a false sense of spiritual safety. A master of spreading ideas through the power of the press, Luther made numerous copies of his Ninety-five Theses, which he quickly distributed throughout Europe.

In his work, Luther challenged a number of other Roman Catholic beliefs, as well, including ideas concerning purgatory and the power of the Pope over those in the afterlife. Overall, Luther believed that the Bible, not tradition, should be the one source of spiritual authority for Christians everywhere, and that faith, not works, results in salvation.

Despite excommunicating Luther in 1521, and later declaring that anyone could kill him without consequence, there was nothing the Catholic Church could doLutheranism had begun to spread, and those who protested elements of the Catholic faiththe Protestantsgrew in number and power. From this sprang war and persecution, but the result was set: Christianity was torn asunder.

That spirit of division survives, in lesser form, to this day, and tensions between these two major branches of Christianity often run high. The two sides often vilify one another as heretical or idolatrous, and differences over doctrine still limit the enormous potential for good these two groups might have together.

But now, lets look at what might happen if Protestants and Catholics began to work together.

A Unified Future

The Trinity gives us a great representation of what unity really means, and just as importantly, what it doesnt mean.

The great mystery of the Trinity is that the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are three separate personalities that create one beingGod. And like the Trinity, the Christian Church should operate as one entity with one, overarching mission.

But also like the Trinity, the Church doesnt have to be homogenousbecause each human being is so utterly unique and different from the next, denominations and differences of Biblical interpretation will necessarily exist, and thats okay.

And so, the problem with the division between Catholics and Protestants isnt that theyre separate groups, but that they dont often work together to achieve Gods purposes. As Paul writes in Ephesians, Christians all over the world are called by God to realize that "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

When the worlds 900 million Protestants and 1.2 Catholics can agree on these issues, relying on one another to pursue them, Gods will gets done.

So what does this Trinity-like unity look like?

First, it looks like physical cooperation and active humanization of each side by the other. Catholic churches and Protestant institutions need to feel free to cooperate in their ministry efforts. They also need to begin seeing one another as fellow Christians and humans, which means dropping charges of heresy and idolatry against one another. Essentially, these two sides must recognize one another as fully Christian.

Second, these two major parts of the Christian Church should be willing to explore one anothers traditions. Without this essential exploration and communication, Protestants will remain a mysterious enemy to Catholics, and vice-versa. Information dissolves ignorance, which leads to empathy.

If this can be done, and unity achieved, even while recognizing individual differences, there is little the united Church of God could not do. Imagine the charity work that could be done with combined funds, or the mission work that could happen through collaboration.

In an age where Christianity is more maligned than ever, this might be just what the church needs to survive into a new era.

Searching For Answers

The answer to the question with which we began is this: yes and no. No, in that Catholics and Protestants will likely not ever integrate into one, unified system of beliefs. They dont need to do this in order to work together. But, yes, in that the two major divisions of the Christian faith should continue to converge in their mission to love God, love one another, and make the world a better place.

With the new direction both Protestant leaders, and Pope Francis, are taking their respective faiths, we can look forward to a greater level of cooperation in the coming years than has occurred since Luther nailed his theses to a wooden door in the 1500s.

Wesley Baines is a graduate student at Regent University's School of Divinity, and a freelance writer working in the fields of spirituality, self-help, and religion. He is also a former editor at Beliefnet.com. You can catch more of his work at www.wesleybaines.com.
After a year of delays, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines on Monday launched joint security patrols in waters between their three countries, spurred to action by the seizure of a city in the southern Philippines by Islamic State-linked militant groups.

Defense ministers and top military brass of all three countries were on hand to inaugurate the initiative, first proposed in May 2016 as a rash of maritime kidnappings in the Sulu Sea slowed trilateral trade and reportedly reaped millions of dollars in ransom for Mindanao-based militants such as the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

Deputy Defense Minister of Brunei Darussalam Abdul Aziz bin Haji Moh Tamit and Senior Minister of State for Defense and Foreign Affairs Maliki Osman of Singapore attended the launch as observers.

The martime patrols, including air and surface elements, are meant to boost security in the face of non-traditional real threats such as piracy, kidnapping, terrorism and other transnational crimes in regional waters, a joint statement by the three participating governments said.

The main goal of the Trilateral Maritime Patrol is to ensure militants, including Daesh members, do not make the Sulu Sea a rat trail to infiltrate the three nations, especially after the fighting incident in Marawi City, Philippines, Malaysian Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein told BenarNews, using another name for the so-called Islamic State.

Armed groups in the southern Philippines banded together to take over large parts of the southern city of Marawi on May 23, leading Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law across the Mindanao region. Government forces have been battling the gunmen ever since, with a death toll of some 345 people, most of them militants, according to officials.

The dead include foreign fighters from at least six countries  Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Chechnya, Saudi Arabia and Yemen  one year after Islamic State leaders urged followers who could not reach Syria to travel to the southern Philippines instead.



Military theater

As part of the initiative, each of the three nations will set up a maritime command center in locations bordering the Sulu Sea: Tarakan, North Kalimantan, in Indonesia; Tawau, Sabah, in Malaysia; and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines.

The send-off ceremony staged at a naval base in North Kalimantan included the simulated rescue of a cargo ship suddenly swarmed by gun-toting pirates amid a burst of gunfire.

Within seconds, two Indonesian warships drew alongside the container ship, and two Sukhoi fighter jets swooped low over it. Malaysian and Philippine navy ships steamed onto the scene as Indonesian navy commandos rappelled to the deck from a hovering helicopter.

According to Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu, the rescue was set in motion by a distress call from the container ship, which was being followed by surveillance aircraft.

This is the kind of cooperation we will do against piracy, Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu told a press conference aboard Indonesian Navy Vessel Dr Suharso-990.

One and a half years ago, we predicted ISIS would come to the southern Philippines. Why? They were losing in Syria and Iraq. They are conducting activites in Europe, for sure they will return to Southeast Asia, he said.

Hishammuddin said the patrols are a positive step in containing growing radicalism among a handful of community groups who dont respect the law.

Weve already made a commitment not to give them even the slightest bit of room on our soil, he said.

Porous borders

Philippines Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said his goverment was determined to combat the ASG, which has undermined security in the region for years.

The security cooperation would help secure Sulu waters, a key trade route for the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), he said.

This cooperation will enable us to hunt down all the hiding places of the Abu Sayyaf gang, he said.

In Manila, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla told reporters, The end objective of the trilateral border agreement is to reinforce the security in this common area.

Abductions at sea would end and the movement of potential armed elements, any jihadist organizations or any armed organizations, will not go through all these porous borders because of that heightened security, he said in describing the aims of the cooperation.

For years, ASG has been kidnapping and holding hostages for ransom, and executing some of them. In February, the group released a video showing the beheading of a German hostage, Jurgen Kantner, after a deadline for a U.S. $600,000 (2.6 million ringgit) ransom passed.

Last year, ASG militants were blamed for attacks on ships in waters between Borneo island and the southern Philippines that resulted in abductions of dozens of Indonesian and Malaysian sailors. Most were released.

ASG collected at least 354.1 million Philippines pesos (U.S. $7.3 million) from ransom paid for hostages in 2016, Philippines-based news website Rappler.com reported.
Noor Azmi Jalani (left), Ali Saifuddin and Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof celebrate after being acquitted of terror charges in Kuala Lumpur , June 19, 2017.

A Malaysian judge on Monday acquitted two Malaysian air force officers and an Indonesian national of plotting with an Islamic State fighter and his son to kidnap Prime Minister Najib Razak and other top officials in 2015.

Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Ab Karim Ab Rahman found Nor Azmi Jalani, 28, Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, 29, and Indonesian Ali Saifuddin, 30, not guilty based on discrepancies in their testimonies and that of main witness Abu Daud Murad, who is serving a 12-year sentence for his role in the plot.

Abu Daud and the three had admitted to being in a meeting, planning for terrorism acts like kidnapping politicians to exchange for [security act] detainees, stealing firearms and going to Syria to fight. In their sworn statements, the three men admitted attending the meeting but did not plan on committing the offenses, the judge said.

The statement from key witness Abu Daud does not tally with Ali, Nor Azmi and Mohd Yusri whose statements were consistent with each other. This has raised doubts in the prosecution.

The judge however approved a request they remain detained under Security Offenses (Special Measures) Act (SOSMA) while prosecutors appeal the ruling.

The acquittals were welcomed by family members and by Alis lawyer, Syahredzan Johan.

Although [the judge] said the key witness has high credibility, after listening to the trio, their statement was stronger, he told BenarNews.

Syria, Afghanistan, Sulawesi

The three men had been charged with promoting and supporting terrorist activities at a house in Pendang, Kedah, between Jan. 30 and April 5, 2015. Three other men were also arrested in connection with the plot.

Two of them  Abu Daud Murad and his father, Murad Halimmuddin Hassan pleaded guilty in 2015 and were sent to prison, where the older man died of an illness last year.

The elder Murad, a former Kumpulan Mujahiddin Malaysia (KMM) member, spent about five months fighting in Syria in 2014, and had previously been involved in conflicts in Afghanistan and Sulawesi, according to media reports at the time of his sentencing.

A sixth suspect, Hadharami Hashim, a religious school assistant from Kedah, was freed by the court for lack of evidence.

A counter-terrorism officer escorts Azudin Mahmud, whose head is covered, to the Kulim Magistrate Court to face a charge of financing terrorism, June 18, 2017. (Fairuz Mazlan/BenarNews)

Terrorism financing charges

The acquittal occurred a day after three men from the same northern state of Kedah were charged with sending money to Malaysian IS members in Syria.

Azudin Mahmud, 54, was charged in Kulim magistrate court with funding former top Malaysian IS recruiter Muhammad Wanndy Mohamed Jedi, who was killed in Syria two months ago.

Azudin allowed 3,500 ringgit (U.S. $818) to be deposited into his bank account under the assumption that some or the entire amount would be used by Wanndy to fund his terror activities, prosecutors charged.

Meanwhile, in Sungai Petani magistrate court, similar charges were filed against Muhammad Hassan Syauqi Omar, 23, and Mohd Shaiful Mohd Jaafar, 31.

Hassan was charged with providing 100 ringgit ($23.37) and 200 ringgit ($46.75) to Muhammad Fuhdail Omar, identified as a Malaysian IS member fighting in Syria. He was also charged with providing 2,000 ringgit ($467) to alleged Malaysian IS member Wan Mohd Aquil Wan Zainal Abidin,

All three fund transfers occurred between April 28 and May 1, 2015, at a house in Sungai Petani, prosecutors alleged.

Mohd Shaiful, meanwhile, provided 890 ringgit ($208) to Hassan on April 12, 2015, for use in a terrorist act, authorities said.

Since 2013, Malaysian authorities have arrested 310 people suspected of having links to IS, of whom 66 have since been freed, according to government figures compiled by BenarNews.

Additionally, 31 Malaysian militants have been killed while fighting for IS in Syria and Iraq, while 56 others are believed to be fighting in those countries, according to Malaysias top counter-terrorism official Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.

Counter-terrorism officers lead Muhammad Hassan Syauqi Omar (front in white) and Mohd Saiful Jaafar after they were charged in Sungai Petani Magistrates Court, June 18, 2017. (Fairuz Mazlan/BenarNews)
Troops aboard a flat-bed truck prepare for deployment in Marawi to battle Islamic State-linked militants who have entrenched themselves in four villages, June 17, 2017.

An aide to Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, the acknowledged local leader of the Islamic State, was arrested in the southern Philippines and authorities captured three suspected extremist militants who fled the fighting in Marawi City, military officials said Monday.

Hamsi Amajad Marani, considered a bomb expert by authorities, was arrested on Saturday in a predawn operation in Zamboanga city, 427 km (266 miles) southwest of Marawi, where government troops are locked in four weeks of vicious gun battles with Islamic State- (IS)-inspired militants.

The subject is a notorious member of the Abu Sayyaf and is a trained bomber by an Indonesian Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) bomb expert, the military said in a statement. Bomb-making materials were recovered when he was captured.

Additionally, troops recovered about 11 kilograms (five pounds) of packed methamphetamine hydrochloride (locally known as ice or shabu) allegedly left behind by gunmen, in what the army says was a proof that the militants were engaged in drug dealing.

Blamed for Bali bombing

JI was al-Qaedas Southeast Asian front and was blamed for a 2002 bomb attack in the Indonesian resort island of Bali that left more than 200 dead, many of them western tourists.

Since then, JI has largely disbanded, but many members were believed to have penetrated regional militant groups, including the Abu Sayyaf, a small terror group in the southern Philippines that specializes in beheading hostages, bombings and attacks.

One of its leaders, Hapilon, along with the previously unknown Maute group, took over large parts of Marawi on May 23, triggering intense clashes that have killed 62 security forces and 257 militants. Twenty-six civilians have been killed, while 24 other people have died from diseases in overcrowded evacuation centers, officials said.

Military official said Hapilon is holed up in Marawi with his men, backed by foreign fighters.

The capture of Marani will, somehow, cripple any possible support being given by Marani to Hapilon as he struggled to leave Marawi for safety, said Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

On Friday, government troops rescued one of six Vietnamese sailors held captive by the Abu Sayyaf in the jungles of Basilan, an island southwest of Marawi.

Hoang Vo, 26, and five other Vietnamese sailors were seized aboard their boat off the island of Basilan in November.

Vo apparently escaped from his captors while government forces were pounding a suspected Abu Sayyaf camp with airstrikes and artillery. Military officials said they could not immediately ascertain the situation of the other Vietnamese sailors.

The Abu Sayyaf is believed to be holding 26 captives, 21 of whom are said to be in the neighboring island province of Sulu and five are in Basilan. The group beheaded a 70-year-old German captive in February and two Canadians last year, after their governments refused to pay ransom.

Since January, the military said it has killed 83 Abu Sayyaf militants in offensives meant to crush the groups southern strongholds.

Bounty

Hapilon, who has a $5 million bounty on his head offered by the U.S. government, was believed wounded in the military offensives in Basilan in January. How he managed to travel undetected and reach Marawi has not been explained.

Police and troops monitored Hapilons presence in Marawi on May 23 and moved to arrest him. But his group was backed up by fighters from the Maute gang and several militants from Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, among others.

The violence so far has emptied Marawi, a city of 200,000 on Mindanao island, and forced President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in the entire southern region.

On Saturday, Duterte said that troops were surprised by the fire-power the militants had in Marawi, but vowed to crush the enemy forces with governments continued bombardments.

All they know is to kill and destroy. Period. And to kill all who do not believe in Allah, Duterte said in a speech during a visit to Agusan del Norte province, also in Mindanao. Just look at Marawi now. Whats going to happen with that?

Duterte claimed the dead in Marawi has reached 500, a figure greater than the official toll. He did not explain where he got information, but the president has been known to give out statements that are later walked back by his spokesmen.

Their bodies are rotting. They dared to fight the government equipped with airplanes and cannons. We expected that, he said in his first public appearance in days.

Plenty of my soldiers and police have died. We cannot reach a settlement there in Marawi. Lets finish this war first and then well see wholl win. And then well talk, the president said.

Duterte said militants have suffered twice as many casualties, with their dead sprinkled all over Marawi now.

Nobodys going to claim them because they dont know them. Those are the ones who came here, he said, alluding to foreign fighters.

Duterte admitted troops were taken aback by the resistance in Marawi, with many well-equipped enemy fighters positioning themselves in buildings and other strategic points where they managed to pin down approaching troops.

They got the vantage positions first. But I never, never, never really thought they were able to bring that many bullets into Marawi, Duterte said.

Asked on Monday when the military expected to finish the operation, armed forces spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the brass does not set timelines anymore because of the complexity of the urban environment.

He said the recovery and control of strategic vantage points by advancing troops have continued, with the enemy resistance continuing to wane.

Troops continue to get deeper into once enemy-held positions as evidenced by the recovery of cadavers of terrorists and their firearms, computers and peripherals, as well as communications equipment and accessories, he said, adding gunmen have been confined to just four of the 96 villages in Marawi.

Padilla said the use of civilians as human shields and the fighters running for cover inside mosques have slowed the militarys advance. Also, three Maute members who tried to escape were caught aboard a passenger ship bound for the central island of Iloilo.

Government troops patrol an area in Marawi City where security forces are engaged in protracted fighting with Islamic State-linked militants, June 17, 2017. (Felipe Villamor/BenarNews)
Soldiers inspect the scene of a roadside bomb that killed six soldiers in Pattanis Thung Yang Daeng district in Thailand, June 19, 2017.

A roadside bomb believed to have been planted by separatist rebels killed six soldiers and wounded four in one of the deadliest attacks against security forces in Thailands insurgency-stricken Deep South, officials said.

The attack, which took place in the Thung Yang Daeng district in the southern province of Pattani, is the biggest attack since Muslims in the Deep South began observing the fasting month, Ramadan, on May 27, according to military statistics.

Military spokesman Col. Pramote Prom-in told reporters an unknown number of attackers detonated the bomb hidden under the road surface.

Based on initial investigation, I believe the attack was carried out by insurgents who want to disrupt peace, Maj. Pompetch Chatoklang, a police investigator, told BenarNews in a separate interview.

No group or individual claimed responsibility for the bombing.

Since local Muslims began observing the Ramadan fast about four weeks ago, at least 25 people have been killed and 26 others injured in separate insurgency-related bombing and shooting incidents, military officials said.

The Monday attack matches the death toll of a roadside ambush in Narathiwat province, also in Thailands restive Deep South, in April, during which suspected insurgents opened fire at a truck carrying soldiers after detonating a roadside bomb, officials said.

About 7,000 people have been killed since 2004 in violence associated with the conflict in the Malay-speaking, majority Muslim Deep South.

Since 2014, Thailands military-led government and an umbrella group representing various southern rebel groups have held a handful of meetings aimed at restarting official peace talks.

In February, MARA Patani and a government delegation agreed to a framework for setting up a safety zone  or limited cease-fire  in one of the districts in four southern provinces where insurgents are known to operate, before the end of this year. But attempts to restart peace talks have stalled.

Reacting to the bombing on Monday, Nimu Makajae, a respected Muslim leader in southern Yala province, called on Muslims to refrain from violent activities during Ramadan.

In the last 10 days of Ramadan, Muslims must maintain good deeds, do good to others. Muslims shall not hurt others, Nimu told BenarNews. We, Muslims, are very sad to see Muslims cause pain to neighbors, cause turmoil in society and cause death and injuries during Ramadan.
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Mourning for the Reunification Chancellor |

Von: Henrik Jeimke-Karge, Florian Kain, Rolf Kleine, Franz Solms-Laubach, Kai Weise and Ralf Schuler

The body of the former chancellor is still lying in state in his Ludwigshafen bungalow. Friends and companions are saying their farewells.

BILD answers the most important questions!

 How extensive is Kohls material legacy?

There can only be estimates concerning this point. The more than 350 square metres home in Oggersheim is said to be worth up to a million Euros. There are also numerous paintings, icons, and other valuables in the house. There is also, among other things, the income from Kohls books  most of which were bestsellers. Kohls heirs can also expect a million in compensation from scandalous author Heribert Schwan, who published confidential tape recordings of Kohl.

Lesen Sie auch

 Who will receive the Kohl files from his term in office as chancellor?

They are currently in Kohls home, because the former chancellor had borrowed them from the Konrad Adenauer Foundations archives for writing his memoirs. Years ago, Kohls lawyer, Holthoff-Pfortner, had announced that Kohls widow, Maike Kohl-Richter, would commit the intellectual and political legacy of the former chancellor to a foundation. A committee of historians should then be allowed to decide about this part of Kohls legacy.

Auch interessant

 Will Kohls widow receive a pension?

In principle, the widow of a chancellor has the right to 55 percent of the chancellors pension. In the case of Maike Kohl-Richter, this would be approximately 7000 Euros per month. However, according to the law on pensions for civil servants, the widow only has a claim to this pension if the marriage was begun before the retirement  which is not the case in Helmut Kohls second marriage with Maike Kohl-Richter.

 For how long can a body lie in state at home?

In Kohls home county of Rheinland-Pfalz, the law says that the body may lie in state at home for up to 36 hours  and even longer at the relatives request. However, in this case, it has to be guaranteed that the body will be cooled. Kohls widow has already taken care of this by equipping the bungalows living room with air conditioning and dry ice. Presumably, Kohl will remain there until the state ceremony.

 What are the scheduled memorial ceremonies?

There will be a European state ceremony in Strasbourg, the seat of the European Parliament. The date is not yet determined. There will probably be no national state ceremony in Germany. Following the Strasbourg ceremony, there will be a requiem for Helmut Kohl in Speyer Cathedral.

 Who is expected as guests?

The German President, the President of Parliament, the Chancellor, the President of the German Bundesrat, and the entire cabinet. Relatives, of course, companions, friends, and leading persons from politics, religion, economy, and culture are also expected, plus active and former heads of state from all across the world, including former Soviet President, Mikhail Gorbachev, and former US Presidents, George Bush Sr. and Bill Clinton.

 Where will Helmut Kohl be buried?

The burial will take place with a close circle of family and friends in Speyer. So Kohl will not rest next to his first wife, Hannelore.

 Where can I express my condolences?

In Konrad Adenauer House, the CDUs party headquarters, a book of condolences is on display. Until Friday, anyone can write in it from 9 am to 6 pm. The CDU has also put a book of condolences online.

 Why are the flags in Berlin not at half-mast?

It is not until the day of the official state ceremony that the Minister of the Interior will order flags at half-mast on all official buildings. One exception is the Reichstag  its flag has already been at half-mast since Friday evening.

 Will Kohls inaccessible Stasi files be declassified?

Following a lengthy law suit and Kohls eventual consent, the Stasi Records Agency released a small fraction of the files in 2005. However, any person-related Stasi information is, to this day, not publicly accessible. According to the law, this will not change until 30 years after Kohls death.

 When will streets be named after Kohl?

A race between major German cities has already begun as to who will be the fastest to commemorate Kohl. For Minister of Culture, Monika Grutters (55, CDU), Berlin is the foremost choice for commemorating the former chancellor  since Kohl was always a fervent supporter of the idea of Berlin as Germanys capital. Talking to BILD, CDU member of parliament, Marcus Weinberg, also calls for a Helmut-Kohl-Square in Hamburg. However, according to local law, that would only be possible two years after Kohls death
For Immediate Release, June 19, 2017 Contact: Brett Hartl, (202) 817-8121, bhartl@biologicaldiversity.org Wyoming Governor Attacks Endangered Species Act WASHINGTON Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead has attacked the Endangered Species Act, saying, It's not good industry, it's not good for business and, quite frankly, it's not good for the species. He added that Wyoming can't be a zoo for endangered species and that the Act is not just bad for Wyoming, but for the country. Mead's remarks came during a speech to the Wyoming Mining Association on Friday, June 16th in Sheridan, Wyo. Governor Mead can't be more wrong, said Brett Hartl, government affairs director at the Center for Biological Diversity. In protecting species from wolves to grizzly bears to the tiny Wyoming toad, the Endangered Species Act has been a resounding success at preventing the extinction of our country's wildlife. Governor Mead's statements show that rather than seeking to modernize' the Endangered Species Act as he claims, the goal is to repeal or severely hamstring it to benefit his campaign contributors in the fossil fuel industry. Mead's remarks come on the heels of a statement by Rep. Rob Bishop (R-Utah) in December that he would be happy to invalidate the Endangered Species Act. Rather than introducing legislation to repeal the Endangered Species Act, Bishop and other congressional Republicans, including Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), have called for the Act to be modernized. However, during the current Congress, Republicans have launched 30 attacks on the Act, none of which would improve the conservation or recovery of protected wildlife. Since Republicans retook the U.S. House of Representatives in 2011, more than 258 attacks against the Act have been introduced in Congress. Changes to the Endangered Species Act are not widely supported by the public. A 2015 poll found that 90 percent of the public supports the Act. More than 70 percent believe that decisions about endangered species should be based on science  and made by the experts at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, not by politicians. In order to build political support for weakening the Endangered Species Act, Mead established his so-called Species Conservation and Endangered Species Act Initiative in 2015 while he served as the chair of the Western Governors' Association. In 2016 the association approved a policy resolution to substantially weaken the Endangered Species Act. Governor Mead knows that gutting the Endangered Species Act would be deeply unpopular and out of touch with the values of nearly all Americans, said Hartl. As a result, he has pushed this sham process through the Western Governors' Association to try to create a false sense of support for his attack on the Endangered Species Act. In February more than 280 environmental, animal-protection, faith-based, outdoor-recreational and social-justice groups sent a letter to the National Governors Association opposing Mead's efforts at the Western Governors' Association to weaken the Endangered Species Act. The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.3 million members and supporters dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.
For Immediate Release, June 19, 2017

Contact: Chad Tudenggongbu, (917) 558-0849, ctudenggongbu@biologicaldiversity.org

Florida Governor Signs Bipartisan Bill to Expand Solar Incentives

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Florida Governor Rick Scott late Friday signed Senate Bill 90, a measure that will expand tax breaks for renewable energy sources like solar panels on commercial and industrial buildings. The bill extends renewable-energy tax breaks already given to residential properties and exempts a percentage of the assessed value of renewable installations from property taxes.

By approving these rooftop solar incentives, Governor Scott helped make the Sunshine State's energy future a bit brighter, said Chad Tudenggongbu, a senior renewable energy campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity. This moderate step will help local businesses take energy decisions into their own hands and bring well-paying clean-energy jobs to Florida. But state leaders should take stronger action to remove roadblocks to rooftop solar.

S.B. 90 received unanimous support in both the Florida House of Representatives and its Senate but was not voted on until the end of the legislative session. It was a compromise solution to implement a clean-energy constitutional amendment approved by 73 percent of Florida voters in August.

With something so widely supported by Floridians, you have to wonder what took so long, said Tudenggongbu. Voters in Florida have repeatedly and enthusiastically supported renewable power development. Politicians shouldn't hold the Sunshine State back from becoming a leader in solar energy.

Florida's solar industry is relatively small despite large capacity. The state currently ranks only 13 in the nation for installed capacity, although it is third in technical solar potential. The Center's recent Throwing Shade report ranked Florida as one of the 10 worst states blocking distributed solar with bad policies.

The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.3 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.
Novartis's medicine Rixathon is made by the company's generics unit Sandoz and aims to lure business away from Roche's medicine, also known as MabThera, with a lower price.

Swiss drugmaker Novartis has won European approval for its biosimilar version of Roche's blockbuster Rituxan as the crosstown rivals go head-to-head on a drug to treat blood cancers and immunological diseases.

Novartis's medicine Rixathon is made by the company's generics unit Sandoz and aims to lure business away from Roche's medicine, also known as MabThera, with a lower price.

Roche's Rituxan amassed 7.3 billion Swiss francs ($7.50 billion) in global sales in 2016.

Sandoz is committed to increasing patient access to biologic medicines, and Rixathon will be one of the five major launches the company is planning in the next four years.

This is Novartis's fourth biosimilar version - a near copy of a biological medicine - of a name-brand drug to be approved in Europe.

Rixathon is indicated for the treatment of previously untreated patients with stage III-IV follicular lymphoma in combination with chemotherapy. The active substance of Rixathon is rituximab, a monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the transmembrane protein CD20 found on both malignant and normal B cells
ACCRA, Ghana - Innovators from nine African countries have been shortlisted for their outstanding innovations across the healthcare, engineering, energy and communications sectors, as part of The African Innovation Foundation (AIF) 2017 Innovation Prize for Africa.

The innovators come from nine African countries including Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Kenya, Liberia, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe have been shortlisted for the prestigious prize.

This years innovators have demonstrated incredible proficiency through innovative solutions addressing challenges in agriculture value chain, health care, energy, communications, service industries as well as surveillance using drone technology.

This years crop underwent a rigorous selection process by a renowned panel of judges including corporates, academia, technology and scientific experts representing top African innovation influencers.

We are pleased to share with you the names of our IPA2017 nominees as we continue on our mission to catalyse the innovation spirit and unlock untapped potential in Africa. For the first time, this years nominees include innovators from Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia and Zimbabwe.

Moreover, given the instrumental role African women play in transforming Africa, it is thrilling to see more women among the 10 nominees with game changing innovations. By providing platforms to recognise innovation excellence in Africa and mobilising for African innovators, we continue to live up to our credo of engaging, inspiring and transforming. The inspiring stories of these nominees remind us that innovation and African-led solutions are indeed the answer to Africas growth and prosperity, said Walter Fust, AIF chairman of the board.

Now celebrating its sixth year under the theme African Innovation: Investing in Prosperity, IPA is the premier innovation initiative in the African continent, offering a grand share-prize of US$185 000 and incentives to spur growth and prosperity in Africa through home-grown solutions.

IPA has seen tremendous growth in applications and increasing interest from both innovators and innovation enablers over the years. To date, IPA has attracted more than 7,500 innovators from 52 African countries, making it a truly Pan African initiative. IPA 2017 edition witnessed a record number of entries from over 2,530 innovators across 48 African countries. The foundation has supported past winners and nominees with approximately US$ 1 million to move their innovations forward. Due to exposure generated by IPA, past winners have gone on to secure over US$30 million in investments to grow and scale their businesses.

Over the years, IPA has stimulated impactful and market-oriented innovations aiming at changing lives and transforming Africa. In this sixth edition, we want to promote more investment in home-grown innovations as well as intra-African collaboration and trade to allow the scaling up of viable innovations across borders.

Were excited for the opportunity to work with our partners to ensure the innovations of the 10 nominees will be available to African markets and beyond. We invite you to join us and unlock the potential of African innovators, starting by investing in these 10 nominees, said Pauline Mujawamariya Koelbl, IPA director.

AIF will host the IPA 2017 awards ceremony and its second Innovation Ecosystems Connector on 17-18 July 2017, in Accra, Ghana. The event will focus on how innovation enablers and businesses can leverage funding streams, investments and resources that are critical to unlock potential of African innovators.

Participants at the IPA Awards will get an opportunity to attend the official opening of IPA 2017, experience the innovation marketplace, join high-level roundtable discussions, Zua Hub meet-ups, and networking activities, ending with a celebration of African ingenuity when the IPA 2017 winners will be announced.

The shortlisted top 10 IPA nominees and a summary of their innovations, include:

Innovations in communications and smart solutions

1. Peris Bosire, Kenya: FarmDrive

FarmDrive is a financial technology company that has developed a mobile phone based application that collects data and provides an alternative risk assessment model for small holder farmers. While the continent remains largely dependent on agriculture, one of the biggest challenges facing smallholder farmers is access to credit or finance. Most financial institutions are reluctant to grant credit to farmers because their risk assessment models flag small farmers as being very risky. FarmDrive has developed a new methodology for assessing credit worthiness of farmers that has led to higher acceptance rate of loan applications by farmers while maintaining a very low default rate. This could have the effect of significantly boosting agricultural production on the continent while helping financial institutions cost effectively increase their agricultural loan portfolios.

2. Nokwethu Khojane, South Africa: Lakheni, Turning Social Capital into Buying Power

Lakheni is a social and business model innovation which seeks to aggregate low-income households into buying-groups in order to negotiate favourable discounts for goods and services supplied to these households. Most poor people end up paying for goods and services at a unit price that is usually much higher than the unit price paid by other people with more disposable income. This is because as goods and services are packaged into smaller and smaller units to make them affordable, they become less economically efficient and end up costing higher than if one was to buy in bulk or in larger units. In essence, the poor end up paying a poverty premium. Lakheni solves this problem by aggregating poor households into a buyers market by leveraging mobile technology.

3. Omolabake Adenle, Nigeria: Voice Recognition and Speech Synthesis Software for African Languages

This is a software solution that can understand and digitise spoken African languages, and synthesise speech from African languages presented as digitised text. Digitizing African languages in this way allows Africans to interact with hardware devices such as mobile phones, and digital services such as call-centre applications by speaking their local language. The software can be integrated into a wide range of devices and third-party software applications. While voice recognition and speech synthesis software have been developed for various Western and Asian languages, there has been very limited commercial application or academic research for African languages. The difficulty lies in modelling tonality present in most African languages and limited data resources for language modelling. This innovation opens up opportunities for Africans with low literacy levels to also enjoy the benefits of the digital revolution.

4. Nzola Swasisa, Democratic Republic of Congo: Lokole

Lokole, is a device that enables access to efficient email communication anywhere with cellular coverage at a price that is one hundred to one thousand times cheaper than accessing email via regular cellular bandwidth costs. Lokole achieves this firstly by creating a shareable local area network where up to a hundred users within a 25 meters radius can access the network and share the costs. Secondly, it contains advanced algorithms that compress email and also schedules uploads and downloads of data to when data bundles costs are at their cheapest. Costs per user could be as little as $0.01/person/day. More than 71% of the African population doesnt have access to efficient communications. Lokole solves this communication problem and enables many communities to access efficient communication for the first time. Applications of Lokole include: health (remote-doctor), education (remote-teacher), commerce (purchase orders via email), business (attachment documents) and many more.

Leveraging artificial intelligence and mechanical solutions

5. Badr Idriss, Morocco: Atlan Space

Atlan Space develops software technology that is then deployed to manage the operations of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. The software is currently tested for use in managing operations in detecting illegal or harmful maritime activity such as illegal fishing or oil spills over wide expanse areas. UAVs operated by this software can be launched and deployed into monitoring operations without having an aircraft operator. Also, by using Artificial Intelligence they are able to collect data, analyse and produce actionable reports. African governments face numerous challenges in monitoring activities and operation over wide areas. This includes border patrols, deforestation, animal poaching and maritime activity. The software allows for the deployment of UAVs at a very cost effective price without need for highly skilled human intervention and over a wide number of uses.

6. Aly El-Shafei, Egypt: Smart Electro-Mechanical Actuator Journal Integrated Bearing SEMAJIB

The patented innovation (SEMAJIB) presented by Dr El-Shafei, is a smart bearing which is versatile and can change its characteristics as it operates. It consists of a magnetic bearing imbedded in an oil-filled journal bearing, thus forming the smart controllable bearing. The flooding of the bearing with oil is a game changer as the purpose of bearings has traditionally been to expel oil. There is a significant improvement in turbine performance using the SEMAJIB particularly in single line combined cycle plants, as well as conventional generator technology. The device is designed to be used to support energy generating turbines and can be used to improve efficiency and reduce costs of generating energy in Africa.

Discoveries in healthcare solutions

7. Dougbeh-Chris Nyan, Liberia: New Technology for Rapid Detection of Many Infections Using Only One Test

This is a rapid diagnostic test that can detect and simultaneously differentiate at least three to seven infections at the same time within 10 to 40 minutes. In most African countries, there is a lack of sophisticated diagnostic devices and limited expertise in high-tech diagnostics. This hinders the clinical decision-making ability of healthcare providers. This test provides a solution to this clinical problem. The innovation is easy to use in any setting and particularly in rural areas. Additionally, the device is able to detect and distinguish multiple infections which bear the same symptoms for instance, when a patient has yellow fever, malaria, and Ebola. Whereas most testing methods take 3  7 days, this device gives test results in 10  40 minutes. This would provide a significant step in the detection and management of infectious diseases on the continent.

8. Olanisun Olufemi Adewole, Nigeria: Sweat TB Test, A non-invasive rapid skin test to detect Tuberculosis

Sweat TB Test, is a non-invasive rapid diagnostic test to detect tuberculosis (TB). TB is second only to HIV/AIDS as a leading cause of death in Africa. Available methods are high tech; cannot be deployed in rural centres, dependent only sputum which sometimes may not be collectible and considered messy by patients. It is also time consuming with patients making repeated clinic visits before a diagnosis is made. Delay in diagnosis and missed diagnosis of 3million TB cases occur leading to continuous spread of the disease. Sweat TB Test leverages on TB specific marker in sweat of patients, to produce a point- of- care test to detect TB, within ten minutes, without any needle prick. In simple steps, reports are read and patients commenced on medication as needed at the same clinic visit. It has the potential to contribute towards effectively controlling TB, reduce TB related deaths and holds promise to prevent drug resistance TB in Africa.

9. Gift Gana, Zimbabwe: Dr CADx

Dr CADx is a software solution that helps doctors and health care workers diagnose medical images more accurately. Due to the scarcity of radiologists on the continent, most medical images are read by general doctors or other health care workers who lack expertise and end up misdiagnosing more than 30% of the cases that they review. As a result, millions of patients fail to get the right treatment or the treatment is delayed leading to more complications and even death. Dr CADx uses deep learning to interpret medical images and achieve an accuracy of 82% an improvement over the 70% average for radiologists. Dr CADx is designed to work in low resource settings with poor internet connectivity opening it up for use in many rural settings in Africa.

10. Philippa Ngaju Makobore, Uganda: Electronically Controlled Gravity Feed Infusion Set (ECGF)

The Electronically Controlled Gravity Feed Infusion Set (ECGF) is medical device designed to accurately administer intravenous (IV) fluids and drugs by controlling the rate of fluid flow based on feedback from a drop sensor. Over 10% of children admitted to East African hospitals need immediate infusion therapy. Findings from the FEAST trial indicates that over-infusion in children increased the absolute risk of death by 3.3 % at 48 hours. Erroneous delivery rates can result into serious adverse effects. The ECGF solves this problem as it is very easy to operate and has key safety features which include alarms for rate of infusion (rapid or slow), total volume (over or under) and faulty sensors. A battery utilising a hybrid (AC mains and solar) charging bed powers the device. The ECGF has the potential to save lives by providing accuracy and safety at 8% the cost of a brand-new infusion pump.
#CannesLions2017: Mandi Fine on awarding work that truly changes people's lives

I chatted to Mandi Fine, CEO of F/NE and juror for the Cannes Lions Pharma Lions as part of Lions Health, live in Cannes, France.

Mandi, it is wonderful to see you. Mandi, it is wonderful to see you.

Thank you, its wonderful to be here.

Tell me about your experience of the Cannes Health Lions. Tell me about your experience of the Cannes Health Lions.

Mandi Fine, CEO of F/NE and juror for the Cannes Lions Pharma Lions.

Its been the most incredible, inspiring, uplifting and humbling week. I am filled with gratitude to have been asked by Lions Health to be on the Pharma Jury.

There are two juries in Lions Health: Pharma and Health & Wellness. The Pharma Jury has an incredible responsibility around promoting creative work  creativity  that is life-changing, and in the context of Pharma, it truly it really can save people's lives.

So its been very elevating in terms of reminding us of the importance of words, communication and marketing to change, uplift and enhance the world and peoples lives.

Tell me about the standard of creativity because historically, by its very nature, the pharma or healthcare category is not known for great creativity. What was the standard like this year? Tell me about the standard of creativity because historically, by its very nature, the pharma or healthcare category is not known for great creativity. What was the standard like this year?

Youre right, Pharma is highly regulated and there are so many hoops that one has to jump through to get a piece of work out, let alone a creative piece of work. Theres regulations, theres client issues, there are legal issues So to actually produce work in this category, the number of hurdles are enormous. We, as a pharma jury, were rigorous about defining what pharma was and making sure that only the best work that would stand in any Cannes category saw the light of day.

We had a very short shortlist, and we were rigorous around making sure that everything on the shortlist was Cannes Lions-worthy. And then, from the shortlist there was a lot of gold, bronze and silver lions that were awarded, but that said, the work that we saw was absolutely the best of creativity.

What was the most awarded piece of work at the Health Lions? What was the most awarded piece of work at the Health Lions?

There was a piece of work in the Pharma category that stood out head and shoulders above the rest. While technology was everywhere, there was also a lot of virtual reality but the piece that stood out is a very low-tech piece of work. Its called the Immunity Charm. It was awarded four golds and four silvers by our jury and the Grand Prix for Good. Unfortunately, because of the requirements in pharma for grands prix having to be for a corporate client we couldnt award it a grand prix.

The Grand Prix for Good-winning work.

We called it the ultimate wearable in the jury room because it is actually a bracelet that shows a vaccination on a child in Afghanistan and it is the ultimate depiction of data visualisation. It enhances patient compliance; raises awareness to parents around vaccination, where in many Third World-countries vaccination compliance is very low. And so it was really life-changing work in the simplest, simplest way, but met all our needs as a jury for simplicity, creativity and life-changing work.

I was very excited to see that in the health and wellness category, South Africa won gold for the Surfshack by Y&R SA. I was very excited to see that in the health and wellness category, South Africa won gold for the Surfshack by Y&R SA.

Yes, Its beautiful storytelling and an amazing depiction of upliftment, and obviously very exciting for South Africa. The Surfshack is actually a small Muizenberg-based school that runs a volunteer-based outreach programme, and Y&R SA created the Chasing the Dragon movie that won them a health and wellness award:

According to Graham Lang, CCO for Y&R SA and Africa, winning that gold lion is a massive achievement and he extended congratulations to everyone involved at Y&R South Africa and 7Films. He explained that their involvement with Surf Shack began in 2015 when Andrew Welch, Y&R CEO at the time, put a simple CI brief into their Cape Town studio. That evolved into something much bigger, and Lang says it has been incredible to tell the story of how young lives can be changed when they are channeled through the timeless wisdom of the ocean.

Heres hoping for much more Lion-worthy SA work in the coming week. The Festival of Creativity runs from 17-24 June 2017, with Cinemark the local representatives of Cannes Lions for SA. Visit our Cannes Lions special section for the latest updates!
The Cannes Lions Outdoor shortlist has been released, with SA seeing entries from two agencies make it to the final round at Cannes Lions 2017

The Outdoor Lions celebrate creativity experienced out of home. Entries need to demonstrate ideas that engage in-the-field by leveraging public spaces to telegraph a message or immerse consumers in a brand experience.

Y& R SA's 'Frog', 'Snake', 'Bird' and 'Bat' for Johannesburg Zoo made it onto the shortlist in the Public Sector category. Y& R SA's 'Trash Masks Red', 'Trash Masks Blue' and 'Trash Masks Grey' work for Greenpeace Africa also made it onto the Photography shortlist, with additional work by Advantage Y&R Windhoek.

Grey Africa's Satellife Satellite Dish Numbers, with Loxyion Connexyion for Multichoice made it onto the shortlist in the Use of Ambient Outdoor category.

Click here to view the Outdoor Lions shortlist in full.

The Festival of Creativity runs from 17-24 June 2017, with Cinemark the local representatives of Cannes Lions for SA. Visit www.canneslions.com/ and our Cannes Lions special section for more information.
The 64th annual Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity hosted the Cannes Lions Glass award ceremony on 19 June 2017.

The Cannes Lions Glass Lion, also known as the Lion for Change, covers entries for any product or service and designed for any medium, for any commercial or non-commercial client, regardless of the product or service being advertised, or the medium of communication, but must in some way represent a shift towards more positive, progressive and gender-aware communication. They recognise the power of creativity to positively impact not only businesses and brands, but also the world at large.

This Lion rewards creative work that rejects gender stereotypes and confronts prejudice and inequality by representing the gendering of individuals people in a progressive or socially conscious way. As a result, the same piece of work can only be entered once into Glass, with all entries into Glass donated to related charities, and there are no categories for Glass.

Only 11 awards were handed out, with the Grand Prix awarded to Fearless Girl, which also took home the PR Lions Grand Prix.

View the full table of winning work below:

Glass Lions Winners

Entrant Title Client Product Award McCANN NEW YORK FEARLESS GIRL STATE STREET GLOBAL ADVISORS SHE ETF Grand Prix LAW & KENNETH SAATCHI & SAATCHI, Mumbai #GIVEHER5 THE AMMADA TRUST PUBLIC SERVICE Gold Lion NOMADES, Mexico City GENDER VIOLENCE CERVECERIA CUAUHTEMOC MOCTEZUMA HEINEKEN MEXICO TECATE BEER Gold Lion WEBER SHANDWICK, London BRUTAL CUT ACTIONAID UK FGM AWARENESS Silver Lion LEO BURNETT BEIRUT #UNDRESS522 ABAAD RESOURCE CENTER FOR GENDER EQUALITY GENDER EQUALITY NGO Silver Lion AREA 23, New York ITBRA  THE WEARABLE THAT DETECTS CANCER CYRCADIA HEALTH ITBRA/BREAST CANCER SCREENING Silver Lion DENTSU Y&R, Tokyo THE FAMILY WAY RECRUIT LIFESTYLE CO., LTD. SEEM Bronze Lion J. WALTER THOMPSON COLOMBIA, Bogota BREASTFEEDING MANNINQUIES Amigos de la Lactancia and Coalition brands Amigos de la Lactancia Bronze Lion OGILVY BRASIL, Sao Paulo STRONG GIRLS NESTLE NESCAU Bronze Lion McCANN NEW YORK SEE WHAT'S NEXT MICROSOFT N/A Bronze Lion AREA 23, New York THE TRAFFICKING EXAM POLARIS THE ANTI-TRAFFICKING EXAM & OTOSCOPE Bronze Lion

The Festival of Creativity runs from 17-24 June 2017, with Cinemark the official local representative for the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.

Visit the official Cannes Lions website and our Cannes Lions special section for more information.
#Newsmaker: Sue Napier returns to advertising, her happy place

The Hardy Boys (THB) has its lucky hands on Sue Napier, who also believes a little bit of luck has had a role to play in her achievements to date. This combined with her upbringing and the people and experiences that have helped shape who she is today, and having a supportive family that motivate her to do the hard yards.

It goes without saying that we are really excited that Sue Napier will be joining The Hardy Boys team, says CEO Dale Tomlinson. As the newly appointed MD, Sue will work with the Exec at THB to strengthen both the internal and external development of our client relationships to ensure that we are responsive, relevant and agile in meeting their demands and expectations. Apart from the wonderful energy she will bring to the agency, her depth of experience in leading and building top teams and overseeing some of South Africas leading brands, she will also add substantially to the depth of guidance and leadership we can bring to our clients in an ever more demanding business climate. Sue Napier Napier adds, I am extremely proud to be joining The Hardy Boys, an agency I have long respected and admired. Dale and his team have built a truly remarkable agency. The tenure of its clients, as well as the team of incredibly talented people who work for THB is testament to this, as is the exceptional work that the agency produces. There is a culture and an energy about THB that is infectious and inspiring. I feel truly honoured to have been appointed to this position. I simply cannot wait to join the team and get started. Coming from Mr Price (MRP), she is particularly happy to be back in the advertising space. I know now, without a doubt, that the advertising industry is where I am supposed to be In fact, it [THB] was the first agency I ever interviewed at some 20 years ago straight out of college, and Dale didnt give me the job. He is never going to live that one down! So, I have come full circle. In more ways than one, shes now back in Durban and proud to be part of the creative talent that exists there. Here, she talks through her experience at the various agencies she worked for and what theyve taught her. She also shares a bit about how she cracked the so-called glass ceiling as a woman in leadership, the importance of having a good support system and doing what you love. How does it feel to crack the so-called glass ceiling as a woman in leadership, especially in the advertising space? How does it feel to crack the so-called glass ceiling as a woman in leadership, especially in the advertising space?

I was fortunate enough to be brought up by parents who taught me that through hard work and commitment, anything was possible. I have been fortunate to have been surrounded by incredible role models throughout my career, both male and female, whose success was testament to their work ethic and their passion. Luck also has had a role to play  being in the right place at the exact right time. Recognising those moments, believing in myself and being prepared to do the hard yards have all contributed to where I find myself today.

Every stage of my career has taught me something and has contributed to my present  TBWA Hunt Lascaris was the most incredible learning ground  it is where I learnt advertising. As MD of Ireland/Davenport which is a position I held from the inception of the agency, for 11 years, reminded me on a daily basis what hard work was all about, how important it is to surround yourself with people you both respect and like and to never take success for granted.

I am incredibly excited to begin my journey at THB  to rise to the challenges ahead, to learn from the people around me and to continue building with the Hardy Boys team, what can only be described as a remarkable culture and business.

What advice would you give to other aspiring women hoping to do the same? What advice would you give to other aspiring women hoping to do the same?

Do what you love. To work in advertising it has to be in your blood. It has to make your heart beat that little bit faster.

Put your head down, get your hands dirty and do the hard work  it will pay off in the end.

And above all, have respect for yourself, and for those around you  be curious about the world, read, watch, listen and be open to learning.

What are you most excited about? What are you most excited about?

I am so happy to be back in advertising to be honest  this is my happy place!

I loved every moment of my time at MRP on the proverbial other side of the fence. I met amazing, talented people and learnt so much from them. I will always be grateful for the time I spent there and the opportunity I was given to do something completely new and different. And it brought me back to Durban  my hometown.

What do you think of the industry in Durban? What do you think of the industry in Durban?

I am so proud to be working in advertising in Durban. Durban has always been a hub for great creative talent but I dont think truly receives the credit and the respect that it is due. As a city, Durban has for a long time lost talent and the ambition of that talent to Johannesburg and Cape Town. Having now worked back in Durban for a year, I cannot express how blown away I have been by the talent that exists, in all spheres of creativity in Durban. There is a resurgence of creative energy in the city and I am thrilled to be a part of it.

It goes without saying that with ever-evolving technological development and innovation, geographic location doesnt impact on an agencys ability to deliver on a clients wants and needs.

I cannot wait to see what the future holds for THB.

What do you bring to the agency and how do you plan to grow it? What do you bring to the agency and how do you plan to grow it?

Apart from the years of experience and learning I bring to the agency based purely on my number of years in the industry as well as the invaluable experience I gained running Ireland/Davenport for all those years, I believe I bring a fresh set of eyes, energy and enthusiasm to the table.

I believe strongly in culture and the culture of THB is deep down what drew me to the agency. I look forward to continuing to build the culture and to have fun while doing it. Healthy, robust working relationships both with clients and the agency team have also always been a focus for me and something I believe is paramount to success. Strong, long-standing relationships built on trust and respect is something that THB has long been known for. I look forward to continuing to build on these relationships and to absolutely having a lot of fun along the way!

When talented people are united towards achieving a common goal, when they are working in an environment that not only brings the best out in them but also inspires them and they are having fun, this is a happy place to be. A talented, hardworking, inspired, happy team is a pretty formidable combination in any business.

What do you love most about your career in advertising? What do you love most about your career in advertising?

For me it is the perfect balance between my brain and my heart, between business and creativity. There arent too many industries that deliver so perfectly on both. I could never work in an environment that was void of creativity.

I have also always loved the ever-changing nature of the industry  the speed, the innovation, the technology and the pressure. No two days are ever the same and each day brings a new challenge. It is not for the faint-hearted, but it is most definitely for me!

Finally, I love the creative product. I am in awe of both the strategic and creative process and the brains that drive them. I have massive respect for both areas of discipline. And then if you integrate a talented, service-driven, hungry, tenacious and efficient project management team into the mix, the sky is the limit. To witness these three areas of discipline within an agency, collaborate, integrate and truly deliver is like poetry in motion.

What's at the top of your to-do list? What's at the top of your to-do list?

Listen!

I am going to sit and listen and talk with my team as well as to our clients, to get under the skin of the business and our clients business, so that I may gain a thorough understanding of the issues, the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead of us.

I very much look forward to meeting each of our clients and starting my journey with them.

What motivates/inspires you? What motivates/inspires you?

On a personal level, my children, husband and family inspire and motivate me. I am incredibly close to my family, which is why its so wonderful to be back in Durban close to them. My husband is incredibly supportive of my career. He is a great source of guidance and extremely good at grounding me, especially when I am under pressure. And finally being a mother to my two young daughters is without a shadow of a doubt my proudest achievement and my greatest source of happiness. They are my whole world.

What are you currently reading/listening to for work? What are you currently reading/listening to for work?

I am currently reading Daring Greatly by Dr Brene Brown. It was given to me by a friend and it deals with a new approach to how one leads, loves, works and parents through exposing ourselves to vulnerability.

Nothing can beat TED Talks for instant inspiration and motivation. Gosh there are some clever, clever people out there!

Tell us something about yourself not generally known. Tell us something about yourself not generally known.

My dream growing up was to be a magazine editor. Hence studying journalism. And the only magazine I wanted to edit was Vogue! I still have a deep love for writing and for fashion, both of which I still get to fulfil even though I never reached the lofty heights of editor of Vogue.

More about Sue Napier

Sue is a well-known and highly respected figure, having spent the last 17 years honing her extensive brand and communications experience and innovative leadership strategies in the local advertising industry.

Sues impressive work history includes a five-year tenure at TBWA Hunt/Lascaris where she left in 2005 to become a founding member of Ireland/ Davenport. Created as a break-away boutique agency in 2005 with just three members, the power team of Sue, Philip Ireland and John Davenport went on to win clients including BMW, Investec, SA Tourism, Vodacom, Plascon, Avis, National Geographic Channels and Fox International Channels and grew to a staff compliment of 130 over 10 years.

For the past nine months Sue transferred to the client side as MD of the Apparel division of MRP, adding value and insight to their ongoing marketing strategies.

Originally from Durban, Sue is delighted to be back in her home town and joining the THB team in this leadership role, where she will bring her wealth of industry experience, tenacity and passion to lead the company into a new era of advertising.
On 16 June, South Africa commemorates Youth Day which this year marks the 41st anniversary of the Soweto uprisings - a day when South African students demanded their right to a decent education.

Vodacom joins South Africa in marking Youth Day by sharing an inspiring message for the youth of the nation.

Technology and connectivity have the power to change peoples lives by providing access to information they would otherwise be denied. The youth of today have greater access to knowledge than any generation before them - they are connected, hold educated opinions and show an active interest in their own future and the future of the country.

The This is Your Time campaign from Vodacom aims to give the youth a platform to speak about the power of education. It is a rallying cry for them to persevere to find success, no matter their circumstances. It offers a message of encouragement that empowers and reinforces the idea that, with access to information and the right attitude, anything is possible.

The campaign consists of an anthemic television commercial that uses spoken word poetry to speak about harnessing the power of underestimation, allowing it to fuel ambition instead of hindering it. It offers an uplifting message about not allowing your situation to hold you back from achieving your dreams.

The television commercial is supported by radio and online video content showcasing the creative writing of South African spoken word poets, all under the age of 25. Vodacom collaborated with five prolific female poets to create uplifting poetry that was originally written and performed for Youth Day 2017.

Vodacom is passionate about empowerment and is a proud facilitator of the spread of knowledge and access to information for all South Africans.

Collaborator Quotes - Veli Mabena

Vodacoms Veli Mabena says the company has invested significantly in free mobile education for both students and teachers: Technology and connectivity play a key role in education, especially through the expansion of access to information and thought, and This is Your Time is a rallying cry of encouragement for young South Africans on such a significant day to make their voices heard and to persevere for knowledge and success, no matter what their circumstances are.

Commercial Director  Dan Mace

This board really stood out for me from Ogilvy, as it was something super rich in performance. Its honest and engaging and gave me a chance to work with a creative forward-thinking team. Being a one-day shoot, we really had to move quickly and the performance had to be on point. We did loads of prep with our protagonist to get her into the right space, but when she was on set it just came naturally. She was great to work with and took direction really well. I am proud of the end product and stoked to be able to be a part of a message so relevant to our country. Those are the ads I dig.

Creative Director  Candice Hellens

I feel humbled to have worked on such an incredible project, with such a positive message for South Africa. The youth that we had the privilege of collaborating with were all such smart, professional, kind, forward-thinking and talented individuals. They were truly inspiring and the experience has given me a deep sense of pride and optimism for the future of this country.

Credit List:

Agency:

Pete Case, Chief Creative Officer

Matthew Barnes, Executive Creative Director

Candice Hellens, Creative Director

Mantwa Toka, Art Director

Palesa Motiki, Copywriter

Lerato Molele, Business Unit Director

Helen dHotman, Producer

Egg Films:

Dan Mace, Director

Vjorn du Toit, Producer

Colin Howard, Executive Producer

Fabian Vettiger, DOP

Lisa Holland, Assistant Director

Zolani Shagease, Directors Assistant

Client:

Veli Mabena, EHOD

Deidre Lowig, Marketing Manager

Refiloe Dikgole, Assistant Brand Manager

Jeanine Ferreira, Digital Portfolio Manager






Despite one of the worst storms in Cape Town's recent history raging outside, lovers of McIlhenny Company's Tabasco products huddled within the cosy confines of Villa 47 in Bree Street for the brand's first local Flavour Lab event.

The Flavour Lab concept is used to highlight the versatility of Tabasco and prove that its more than a condiment, but also an exciting ingredient for an array of food and beverages. Tuna tartar savoury cups, churros with dark chocolate sauce, spicy Bloody Mary cocktails and a range of other delectable treats all containing Tabasco as an ingredient were served to drive this point home.

Preparation of dishes was done by local chefs Clayton Bell and Vittorio Bianchi of Villa 47 and Tabasco international chef Gary Evans, who has been at the helm of Tabasco as the companys corporate chef for the past five years.

The occasion, which held the format of global Flavour Lab events, included a mixology bar and a number of flavour stations used to edutain attendees by explaining the individual flavour profiles of the pepper sauces and demonstrated how using them as an additional ingredient in popular homemade dishes, like guacamole and prawn cocktail, elevated them from good to great.

Brand heritage

The McIlhenny Company is family-owned and has operated continuously since 1868 with its headquarters in Avery Island, Louisiana. The companys Tabasco-branded products are sold in more than 180 countries and territories around the world and labelled in 22 languages and dialects.

The pepper sauces  of which 164 million bottles are consumed annually  contain no added preservatives, artificial additives or gluten, and are Kosher and Halaal. Interestingly, Tabasco pepper sauce is the same today as it was 148 years ago.

Check out all the Cape Town Flavour Lab action in our event gallery.
Stronger global trade is expected this year and as reported by the World Trade Organisation (WTO), indicators like export orders and container shipping are on the rise at the beginning of 2017. Recognising the uncertainty on economic and policy developments, the WTO has still forecasted overall expansion in global trade.

Ongoing economic uncertainty is also seen in South Africa over recent months. While this has made for a turbulent start to 2017 within many sectors, the countrys container market has shown solid growth across both imports and exports during the first quarter, resulting in strong year-on-year growth of 10%.

For Maersk Line Southern Africa, a member of A.P. Moller-Maersk, the majority of growth witnessed in the first quarter of 2017 is a result of strong mining commodity export growth. After a 2016 downturn in the mining and mineral resources sector, commodity prices have recovered significantly through April, resulting in South African container exports showing year-on-year growth of 20%, says Jonathan Horn, managing director of Maersk Line Southern Africa.

South Africa's largest export corridor

He explains that Asia exports grew by 37% year-on-year over the first quarter, on the back of growing demand for local mining commodities. Asia is South Africas largest export corridor, making up around 45% of total exports. Commodities such as chrome and manganese are used in various products, from household appliances to road and building construction, so the global consumer demand, as well as infrastructure, spend  particularly from China due to plans around building a modern-day version of the ancient Silk Road  have helped boost the demand for South African mining commodities. The growth has also been supported by a move in some instances from bulk to containerised flows.

Demand for mining commodities may have picked up early this year but commodity volatility is also expected throughout the year. Recently, chrome demand has dropped significantly, while manganese demand has increased. According to Horn, Commodity demand generally follows short volatile cycles and, as commodity prices have recently decreased significantly  a reflection of lower demand  market growth for the rest of the year, while difficult to predict, is expected to be lower, in the 2-4% range.

Refrigerated container exports

Refrigerated exports recorded growth of about 7% compared to the first quarter of 2016, which Horn says is a reflection of a robust grape crop and strong demand in Europe for South African grapes. Looking forward, the citrus crop, which represents more than 50% of South Africas refrigerated container exports, is expected to grow by 5-7% on the back of strong crops in the North, while crops from the Eastern Cape will likely decline.

Looking specifically at imports, which represent 56% of total container flows, Horn says that while the market has grown by 2% year on year, it is still slightly lower than the 2013 level which represented significant growth. Import growth in 2016 contracted by around 5% and the market has essentially rebounded from this poor performance. Import growth in the first quarter has been stronger than expected. This is linked to a more favourable rate of exchange that has made imports more affordable and allowed businesses to restock inventory at an affordable level.

While this is a positive development, Horn says that only growth over a longer period will signify sustainable rebound on consumer confidence and purchasing. There is no clear evidence that consumer spending is on a sharp rise, and thus 5% growth is not likely to continue. Rather, a slightly lower 1-3% container import growth can be expected for the rest of year.

South Africa container market up and down market swings

Along this same thread, Horn concludes that despite this quarters promising overall trade results, he is cautious about being too optimistic, given that significant up and down market swings are common in the South Africa container market in recent years.

Despite the strong year-on-year growth of 10%, the 2017 market size is only 5% larger than the 2013 market size, which means the long-term growth has only been around 1% per annum in the last five years. Until a significant upward swing is seen in local consumer spending as well as consistent mining commodity demand from China, the market growth is likely to be in the low single digits for the rest of the year.
DAKAR, Senegal - Corner shops, markets and street traders are still the traditional way most Senegalese do their shopping, but micro-businesses are turning to digital means of tracking clients in the West African nation's informal economy.

Image credit: Weebi

Amadou Bawol Bah, like many owners of the corner "boutiques" in Senegal, used to have a large ledger he filled in each day with purchases and credit offered to his customers. "One day I was filling in some details and some cooking oil tipped onto the ledger," he recalled of the moment in 2015 that wiped out years of careful bookkeeping.

Bawol Bah's disaster became the inspiration for a locally-designed app called 'Weebi', meaning "easy" in the local Pulaar language, and the trader hasn't looked back since downloading it. "Weebi simplifies sales and my invoices. The tablet and smartphone replace the notebook and pen," explained Weebi's co-founder Cheikh Sene, who began his start-up with two other Senegalese and a Frenchman. A micro-printer for receipts completes the mix, Sene added.

Around half of Senegal's registered businesses are one-man traders like Bawol Bah, according to government statistics, and operate at thin margins with clients often reliant on credit paid back at the end of the month. In the case of accidents like Bawol Bah's, the app comes with confidential backup for each user, according to Weebi, so data remains safe in case of loss or damage to a device.

After winning a prize for digital innovation at the Africa-France summit held in Bamako in January, Weebi's ambitions are growing in the capital. Although just 40 users so far have the app, which is a standalone download or can be bought for 118,000 FCFA ($200) preloaded onto a tablet, 300 clients have shown an interest in the product in the Dakar area.

Marieme Assietou Diagne, who manages a health food delivery business, says she has gained "more free time and better sales" since using the software. "It helps us to follow clients - who are the regulars, the number of orders, and how many meals we are selling per day," she told AFP. "We can reward loyal customers at the end of the month."

Other small business owners have begun using 'Somtou', a console launched in May with an interface specifically designed for Senegal's majority illiterate population that works with icons and voice commands.

The upstart costs of buying a laptop and the electricity required to run it all day are prohibitive for most, and training in accountancy programmes or software such as Microsoft Excel hard to come by without paying for classes.

With sturdy casing and bright graphics, Somtou is aimed squarely at market traders and small businesses, said its Cameroonian creator Ted Boulou. "It allows those in the informal sector to manage their work more effectively, and gives them more precise estimates of income, revenue and clients," Boulou said.

That can empower them to better bargain wholesale costs and promotions, making businesses more effective, he added, while filing of tax returns and other government documents became simpler and more accurate.

Pricing is also flexible for clients without much upfront cash. "Some will pay 13,000 FCFA ($22) per month for two years, or 500 FCFA (85 cents) a day for two years," Boulou explained, as the single payment of 275,000 FCFA was prohibitive for many - and he has taken 100 orders.

Source: AFP
Witlof, also known as Belgian endive, costs more to produce than many other leafy vegetables. On top of a two-stage growing process, one of the factors contributing to the higher unit price is that Witlof sees need to be imported from the Netherlands and then yields poorly in South African soils - sometimes less than a third of the planted seeds produce roots that can be used for the second stage of Witlof production.

Fanie van der Merwe of Bronaar Farms in Ceres in the Western Cape, says: "Once the Witlof roots are harvested from the earth, they are frozen until required for the second growing stage, this time, entirely in the dark, hydroponically in a nutrient-rich water solution."

Van der Merwe explains that the reason why the Witlof leaf is a creamy white is that the sun hasnt developed the green-coloured chlorophyl that typically occurs during photosynthesis. Also, unlike many other leafy vegetables that are grown in soil, the Witlof chicon, the name for the head that grows from the root, is perfectly clean.

Importing roots directly from the Netherlands

Because of the low-yield of roots grown in South Africa we are now importing roots directly from the Netherlands and then growing the Witlof chicon in our R7m purpose-built hydroponic facility in Ceres, Van der Merwe explains, adding: it takes three weeks from putting the root in the nutrient solution before the Witlof chicon is ready to harvest. This means we can accurately plan a calendar of supply to the supermarkets like Woolworths, Food Lovers Market, Checkers and others that carry our Witlof.

Increasing supply

In agricultural sales terms, the pack out is the number of items ready for sale from the volume planted. In Europe, the benchmark for Witlof pack outs is 80kg/m and yet in our facility we are nearer to 50Kg/m. The plan is to increase this percentage and, we believe that we will offset the costs of importing the roots via shipped refrigerated containers, to give us a higher pack-out and increased volume into stores, he says.

Although Witlof has been grown in South Africa before, and also imported as a finished product, Van der Merwes facility is the first to be able to supply Witlof for 12 months of the year and already has a capacity for four times the current volume. We are pleased about the increased demand, already proven in the few short months of our Witlof promotion campaign, and we look forward to meeting increased demand in the future, he says.

We are excited about giving people all over South Africa the opportunity to enjoy versatile Witlof, as good raw as it is cooked, more often and to become familiar with this exceptional new low-carbohydrate vegetable (3.3g/100g) which is high in fibre (3.1g) and delivers 10% of the recommended daily intake of Folate (B9) along with a host of health-enhancing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, ends Van der Merwe.
Cape Town's new upmarket art and design space, the V&A Waterfront's Silo District, held a launch party to welcome its new crop of retailers, namely: The Guild Group, jewellery designer Kirsten Goss, fashion designer Kat van Duinen, lifestyle botanist Opus, and Glasshouse Rejuvenation, a high-end beauty salon.

The Silo District is developed around the historic grain silo-turned-Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa which is nearing completion and officially opens to the public in late September.

The mixed-use space is already home to eateries such as Woolworths Now Now, Sushi Box, the Granary Cafe and the Willaston Bar located within the Silo Hotel, as well as a Virgin Active Classic Club. The Lindt Chocolate Studio, which opened in April, provides chocolate-making classes in addition to its retail function. Joining them later in the year will be The Yard, an all-day pan-Asian eatery; Si!, a Spanish and African infused gastronomy pub and audio-visual experts Bang & Olufsen. The new concept Radisson Red Hotel will also open in September.

Rahla Xenopoulos, author and novelist, in Kat van Duinens new designer store.

Live, work and play

The V&A Waterfront has taken a three-pronged approach to development at the Silo District, focusing on providing a mixed-use space in which people can live, work and play. Our residential and commercial office offerings have been well known for a while, but our lifestyle and leisure plans for the district are also reaching fruition, said David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront.

With Zeitz MOCAA at its core, we wanted the Silo Districts retail offering to reflect the creativity, design, art and culture embodied by the museum. Todays opening is a small teaser focused on our retailers, and a preview of what to expect from our grand opening in September, when Zeitz MOCAA opens to the public and the final few retailers open, concluded Green.
For the millions without electricity in Africa, basic lighting remains a luxury. Kerosene lamps are expensive. Candles and fires are hazardous and ultimately affects a household's air quality. Manchester-based design consultancy Inventid's recent development of what they are claiming is the world's cheapest solar light could present a solution for this ongoing struggle.

Developed in collaboration with Chinese manufacturer Yingli, the hand-sized lamps retail for around about R63 ($5) and are able to stay lit for up to eight hours when fully charged. Called the SM100 solar light, it is reportedly twice as bright as kerosene lamps and features strap slots so that it can be used as a head-torch or easily strapped to a bicycle.

The lamp was trialled by about 9,000 families in Malawi, Uganda and Zambia. It was important to Inventids founders that the products initial trial be far-reaching in order to best address potential users needs.

"Working closely with charities in Africa we gathered local insights into family routines, the layout of dwellings and environmental conditions, explains co-founder Henry James. We listened to the aspirations and ideas of people whose personal experiences have shaped a product that is co-created in Africa.

Though the SM100 solar light was developed in partnership with charity SolarAid, Inventid have chosen to sell them at cost rather than give them away. According to SolarAids founding director, each lamp sold generates money for food and essentials in East Africa.

The recent winner of a silver award in the design for society and design for sustainability categories at the European Product Design Awards, the SM100 solar light can also be bought online for 10 in the UK, with all extra profits going to SolarAid.
The growing global population remains a challenge for food security - soon, farmers might not be able to produce enough food to support everyone, resulting in people competing for limited food stocks.

Image Supplied

Monsanto SA, through its partnership initiative with Khulisa Social Solutions, is focused on empowering farmers with smart solutions to yield better harvests while using resources more efficiently.

Helping communities thrive

Khulisa is a non-profit company that provides long-term sustainable social solutions to vulnerabilities and inequalities which impede communities ability to thrive. Founded in 1997, the company focuses on empowering South African communities, especially young children, women, and youth, to unlock their potential and develop skills towards a sustainable future.

We are an organisation that strives to address the casual factors of why communities fail to thrive through grass root level engagements, innovative interventions and key collaborations with multiple stakeholders. We leverage investments and experiences from our partners to solve complex problems facing our country, said Tine Cornillie, Khulisa senior programme manager.

Bridging the unemployment gap

In 2016, Monsanto and Khulisa implemented the Global Giveback Circle (GGBC) to bridge the gap between unemployed youth and work opportunities through job readiness programmes, experiential learning programmes and employment opportunities.

A total of 120 post matric girls, aged 25 from Amajuba district, Newcastle, were recruited into the programme. The girls were provided with critical skills such as basic computer training, financial literacy and career guidance to empower them for future opportunities. They were also each assigned a mentor to guide them and provide support through the programme.

A pilot programme was completed in 2015 with 37 girls and then Monsanto joined us in 2016. For 2017 we have a follow-up of the 120 girls, with 28 focusing on farming - livestock and crop farming said Tine.

As the girls interest in farming grew and with quite a few interested in setting up cooperatives, Khulisa decided to seek additional opportunities and with the support of the Monsanto Fund, enrolled 28 girls at Buhle Farmers Academy.

Exit opportunities the biggest challenge

However, not all is without challenges. According to Tine, the biggest challenge to the GGBC programme is finding exit opportunities for the girls after completing the programme due to scarce job opportunities and sometimes matric results are insufficient to get bursaries.

The programme is only the first of many that Monsanto is looking to support in aid of many young women in rural areas who are constantly faced with challenges, including poverty, unemployment, family obligations, early pregnancy, violence, drug addiction and alcoholism.
Vodacom has appointed former deputy finance minister Jabu Moleketi as its new chairman, replacing Peter Moyo who gave notice in April that he was moving to the position of Old Mutual Emerging Markets CEO.

Jabu Moleketi

Vodacom also appointed former Standard Bank and Liberty Life chairman Saki Macozoma as its lead independent director on Thursday.

Moleketi, who also chairs Brait, has been a Vodacom board member since November 2009. He will replace Moyo after the mobile network's annual general meeting on 18 July 2017.

Moleketi served as deputy finance minister in Thabo Mbeki's administration between 2004 and 2008.

Source: BDpro
Trust is an essential component of running a business in South Africa, and indeed, across the rest of the world. Sadly, at present, it's somewhat lacking - and it's not hard to see why. The country's economic and political troubles have collided with a wider, global movement away from the Western liberal consensus and towards populism and anti-establishment ideology.

Gary Turner

The upshot of this is that people dont believe in institutions or the individuals running them anymore. According to the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, only 15% of South Africans trust the government, and 67% believe the system is actively failing. Business trust declined by 4% between 2016 and 2017, and CEO credibility declined by 16%.

The significance of this problem shouldnt be understated. A business that is mistrusted is a business that customers arent likely to patronise. When your institutional and personal credibility are in doubt, convincing people to put their faith in your offering is something of an uphill battle.

Fortunately, theres much your company can do to build confidence and trust among your target audience.

Trust people, and people will trust

Its not particularly controversial to say that your staff is the key to your business success, but it is true nonetheless. Real leaders build and nurture their teams: they help them develop their unique talents and capabilities and they create environments where creativity, passion, and collaboration can thrive. When your employees are happy and productive, they do better work  and theyre more likely to advocate for the business. This can make you more attractive to potential customers, potential hires, and the buying public.

Trust in your people  and people will come to trust you.

Customers dont speak corporatese

Insincerity breeds distrust. Most corporate communication teams are more or less tasked with targeting jargon-filled, personality-free messaging that neither offends nor appeals to anyone. The logic behind it makes a kind of sense: if you say nothing of substance, nobody can accuse you of anything substantial.

But this kind of careful, manicured communications strategy often has the effect of annoying people more. When you use language that the end-user finds boring or doesnt understand, you alienate them, and you make them suspect that youre hiding something. An apology that starts with Were sorry if X was offended by Y, or We regret that Z was unhappy with our service expresses denial more than contrition.

Be open, be honest, be outspoken, be blunt (if necessary), and admit your mistakes. A little honesty and personality go a long way.

Taking responsibility

Its not all doom and gloom: the Edelman Trust Barometer also suggests that 58% of those surveyed trust business more than government, media, and NGOs. At their best, businesses contribute to their community and take partial responsibility for its welfare.

Xero is a good example as it was founded with this precise goal in mind. Rod Drury, the CEO, obviously started out with the aim of making money  like any entrepreneur. But he saw no reason that he couldnt help the New Zealand economy at the same time, so he created a company that would help small businesses thrive. This is more important than you might think: when companies prosper, they pump money into the local communities; most obviously through tax, but also through creating jobs, and often through social responsibility initiatives.

Engaging with your team, with the public, and with your community in a productive and mutually beneficial way will help you build trust with all of them. Be conscious of your company, its place in the world, and its duty to the world and you cant go far wrong.
There's yet another property app in the market that's set to challenge the traditional model of doing business in this space. Created and run by CEO Ross Fitzcharles, MyRentr aims to assist private landlords in managing their properties efficiently. We caught up with 31-year-old Fitzcharles this Youth Month to find out more about the app's unique features and how technology is set to disrupt the property sector.

What sparked the idea to launch the MyRentr app? MyRentr CEO Ross Fitzcharles It all started with my folks who moved down to the south coast and had a property they were renting out in Johannesburg. They had a tenant who paid his rent for five years and always promised that he is looking after the property. Eventually, when the tenant moved out, they quickly learned that paying ones rent every month does not mean that someones taking care of your property. They were shocked at the bad condition their property was in and ended up spending R30,000 to fix the property before someone else could move in. After losing all that money, they were desperate to prevent this from ever happening again and asked me to help manage the property and do inspections as I am close to the property.

I started researching for tools and ways to make renting out the property easier and couldnt find any tools out there thats affordable. My background involved me working at Deloitte in Strategy and Innovation where we regularly designed and built various innovative solutions for our customers - I knew that we could use technology to solve this problem. Thats when I dug a little deeper and found that a large percentage of the market manage their own properties due to the same problems we experienced. Estate agents are just too expensive and most landlords feel that they can do the job just as well.

I wanted to develop a product that could help my folks never find themselves in such a position again. Something that could make renting out their property easier while at the same time protecting them from financial losses, and this is where the dream was born.

What are some of the app's unique features?

A few weeks ago we launched our first feature, Virtual Property Inspection, on our MyRentr app. We understand that landlords are very busy and, unfortunately, property inspections get neglected - this, in fact, is such a crucial aspect of ensuring your investment is protected. Our app allows the landlord, like my parents, to virtually walk through the property inspection without having to be present for the actual inspection. The tenant does the inspection on their behalf and as they take the pictures, through the app, it pops up on the landlords phone in real-time. All pictures are time and date stamped so the landlord knows that the pictures arent manipulated. The renter gets to submit the pictures and the landlord can then rate and review the inspection.

The next feature is our MyRentr Rewards and were very excited about this because, for the first time in South Africa, good renters get rewarded. We guarantee an annual 20% cash-back reward, on top of their deposit, if they take care of the property and pay their rent on time. This creates a win-win relationship for both landlords and tenants. Our rewards links back to our app as all inspections are rated and these ratings form part of the tenant scoring for their cash-back rewards. The rewards form part of our MyRentr Guarantee that is specifically designed to give landlords peace of mind. Not only do we collect and guarantee their rental income, but we help them through the entire renting journey by providing them with all the right tools to manage their properties efficiently. And in the unfortunate event that a tenant defaults, we also have the landlord 100% covered in terms of the legal fees, eviction process and property damage claims.

How do you plan to develop the app further?

We recently received additional investment to continue developing the MyRentr dream and focus on bringing this new way of renting to the South African market.

We currently provide landlords with all the services required to manage their own properties like listing their properties, tenant screening, signing of lease agreements, etc. Our focus for the next few months will be to migrate these services into our app and include maintenance. This will allow landlords to manage their property with ease, convenience and at an affordable price. The dream is that landlords can manage their properties more effectively from the palm of their hands, for half the price what agents charge them, while getting their rent guaranteed. We are also placing strategic focus on rewarding renters and have some exciting benefits well be launching soon.

What has the reception to MyRentr been like since it launched earlier this year?

We have had great feedback from landlords in terms of the product, service and value that we are bringing to the real estate industry and they love the idea that their renters get rewarded for looking after their properties. Its a win-win. The uptake has been great, we have over 250 landlords on our platform and we continue to grow as our marketing drive reaches more and more landlords. We believe that landlords can manage their own properties, they just need the right tools to support them and to make it easier for them. We have signed up strong partners to deliver our promise to our landlords and renters. We are backed by Bryte Insurance, Geneva Risk Management Solutions and we also strategically partnered with SSLR Inc to help us bring this new innovative way of renting to the South African market.

We have seen interest from various property investment clubs who want to increase their value proposition to their investors through adding our innovative solution as part of their program. We also received calls from real estate agents asking how they can incorporate our product into their services to dominate their specific markets. So, its really exciting times.

Do you think the property sector is the next frontier for disruptive technologies?

I believe that the property sector has for too long been dominated by old archaic ways of doing things and is ripe for disruption. Its exciting to see that the race for innovation in the property sector has already started. Innovative technology like augmented and virtual reality, even in its infant stage, shows great potential to change the way property is bought, sold or rented out. The real estate market has been overpriced, underserved and neglected for far too long, change is needed.

Is there enough support for youth development and entrepreneurship in SA?

There are many opportunities and support programmes for youth and entrepreneurship in South Africa. We have amazing CSI programmes that support the youth like school initiatives for education and self-sustainability programmes that instil enthusiasm for education, confidence and a sense of purpose to become positively engaged members of the community. I think we can improve on the overall implementation and execution with a focus on paying it forward. I believe that a paying-it-forward mindset has a generational impact to not only change for the short term but to have a long-term sustainable effect.

In terms of the entrepreneurial landscape, we are seeing more and more support coming in for entrepreneurs in terms of funding, incubation hubs and overall skills and specialty support. The South African market has become more acceptive to startups like ourselves and gives us the opportunity to work from incubation hubs, like Jozihub, to support, motivate and guide us in the best way to start a business. Im excited to see so many venture capital funds popping up - this makes it easier to get funding if you have a great business idea. You also get to work with individuals who are strategically aligned to your success.

Normally, one would go to the bank where there are so many layers in terms of decision-makers that just ends up slowing down the pace at which you can move with little to no support on how to run the business. So things are definitely changing for the better.

As a young South African, what, in your opinion, is the significance of Youth Month in 2017?

For me, Youth Month is a way to celebrate the achievements of the youth. We have so many opportunities that previous generations didnt have. As the youth, we can choose to write our own stories, to create the world we want to live in and live the life that we want to.

Looking back at the scenes that unfolded 40 years ago when the youth stood up for basic demands such as being educated in their own language, standing up against a system that didnt care for anyone else other than itself, the brave souls on that day, even though lives were lost, made a global impact that shocked the world and changed the futures of millions of lives to follow. Youth Month should always be celebrated to continuously remind ourselves of where we were and where we are now.

Its a reminder to everyone, that no matter who you are, you were once young and dependent. As future leaders, we must always work towards a better future and measure ourselves against who we are and who we want to become, and a month like Youth Month gives us the perfect opportunity to do just that.

Ross Fitzcharles completed his honours in Risk Management at the North West University of Potchefstroom. He worked for Momentum Investments for five years and then joined Deloitte Consulting working in Strategy and Innovation for Banking and Insurance. He worked on some exciting projects with its clients from conceptialising and designing a short-term insurance business for one of the largest life insurance companies to designing and developing a virtual bank for one of the biggest banking groups in the world. Midway through 2016, Fitzcharles founded MyRentr to solve problems he experienced in the property sector - he is currently the CEO of MyRentr.
Through dialogue and later the publication of a book in the form of a manual, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is planning to decolonise its curriculum and make it more Pan-African.

The dialogue, which began on Friday, 16 June 2017, is being hosted by the university's newly established Institute for Pan-African Thought and Conversation in collaboration with partners from across the continent.

According to Professor Adekeye Adebajo, director at the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC) at UJ, the release of the book is targeted for 2018.

"The scholarly debates are meant to help put together a book that will steer efforts in decolonising education. The inclusion of such additional thought will strike a balance between Western and African content.

"In essence, the Pan-African Pantheon is a book that will consist of the philosophy of 35 thinkers. The idea is to include African and Diaspora thinkers in the curriculum. This is not to scrap UJ's current curriculum but to be in contestation with a Eurocentric syllabus," said Adebajo.

Professor Barney Pitjana, former vice-chancellor of UJ, made a presentation in reflection of Steve Biko's philosophical thinking.

"Black consciousness and black solidarity are potent tools of liberation in the education system. Biko sought to encourage people to become their own messiahs," said Pitjana.

Pitjana stressed the importance of black people making their ideas immortal by being the authors of their experiences and not depending on their white counterparts to tell their narratives.

Professor Adele Jinadu from Babcock University in Nigeria reflected on Frantz Fanon's ideology of the liberation of black people's psychology.

Fanon was an American psychiatrist who famously said that, "Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfil it, or betray it." In this instance, this generation is tasked with the decolonisation of the education system in African countries, Jinadu said.

According to Professor Shose Kessi, the works of Angela Davis could be of great contribution, in that education must be approached through the lenses of feminism.

"Political rights of women have always been in the forefront of the oppression of black people," said Kessi. In other words, by dismantling gender inequality, education can be transformed.

During her 2016 Steve Biko lecture at UNISA, Davis said that if the government reshuffled its priorities, free university education would be possible. However, students should not receive it on a silver platter, but work for it.

These were among the many submissions made during the conversation, and contributors echoed the sentiment that this mission towards transformation was inspired by the rise of student activism.

Topics ranged from reparations, the rise and fall of Pan-Africanism, pioneers of Pan-Africanism, politicians and activists, historians, economists, sociologists, the literati, and musical activists.

The likes of UJ Vice-chancellor, Professor Ihron Rensburg, Vice-chancellor of the university of the West Indies Hilary Beckles, veteran journalist Lee Daniel, Professor Vusi Gumede of the University Of South Africa, and professor Mashupye Maserumule of Tswane University of Technology contributed to the discussions.

The conference saw presentations on the intellectual contributions of historical and contemporary figures such as Pixley ka Seme, Chimamanda Adichie, Maya Angelou, Kwame Nkrumah, Robert Sobukwe, Thabo Mbeki, Malcolm X, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Frantz Fanon, Steve Biko, Miriam Makeba, and Bob Marley, among many others.

Source: The Times
A revision to the national tourism strategy, while it maintains a focus on foreign tourism as the driving force for the industry, places greater emphasis on investment in the domestic segment to stoke growth in the domestic travel industry.

Helen Jobson via 123RF

On 5 May, the Ministry of Tourism submitted a final draft of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) - a revised version of the original 10-year NTSS, which was first published in 2011 - for public comment over the following 60 days.

Domestic slowdown

The need for the renewed focus is warranted. Domestic tourism has declined in recent years, falling short of the first NTSSs forecast that local holiday trips would rise from 4m in 2009 to 6m by 2015. According to the national marketing agency South African Tourism, the actual 2009 total was 3.6m and fell to 2.84m in 2015, with a further drop projected for last year.

The decline is attributed in part to the continued slow growth of South Africas economy, which is forecast to grow by just 0.8% this year, as well as a depreciating currency and low levels of job creation.

Domestic economic conditions are the main factor contributing to lacklustre domestic tourism growth and spend, although market awareness and product offerings play some part, the new NTSS said. Domestic holiday numbers affect the economic impacts of tourism and, with improved domestic tourist performance, the economic impacts would have undoubtedly been more positive.

Promotional drive at home

The revised NTSS targets an increase of around 5m tourists by 2022, one-fifth of which are projected to be domestic travellers  a goal echoed by President Jacob Zuma at an industry event in May, local media reported.

To achieve this, the ministrys blueprint speaks of a need to promote a culture of travel among South Africans, a policy requiring higher levels of investment and resources at all levels of the industry. The new resources, it says, would be used for expanded marketing campaigns and for choosing and supporting priority segments.

In a step towards fostering local holidaymaking, South African Tourism recently announced it will launch an online product called Good Times in a Box later this year, offering a range of package vacations from family getaways to girls weekends, with the aim of streamlining bookings. The hope is to make travel more accessible for domestic tourists who might otherwise consider arranging a trip too burdensome by removing the hassle, Sisa Ntshona, CEO of South African Tourism, told local media in May.

Good Times in a Box is part of a broader programme called 'I Do Tourism', aimed at raising local awareness of tourisms rising importance to the economy. Launched in May at the annual tourism Indaba event in Durban, the campaign aspires to change how tourism workers  from taxi drivers to hotel owners  interact with clientele, encouraging them to be more hospitable and tourist-friendly.

Growth forecasts

Despite its recent slowdown, domestic travel remains the leading contributor to the sector, accounting for 53.9% of total sales last year, according to the Economic Impact 2017 South Africa report released by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

This position could reverse in the coming years, however, if the domestic segment remains flat. The WTTC has estimated that spending on domestic tourism will increase by just 1% this year, to R151.2bn ($11.6bn), with growth accelerating to an average of 1.7% over the next 10 years to reach R178.9bn ($13.7bn) by 2027.

By contrast, WTTC forecasts see foreign tourism receipts rising by 4.4% this year to R134bn ($10.3bn), before picking up to a 7.3% average in the years to 2027, when they should hit R271.3bn ($20.8bn).

Last year was a strong one for the sector in South Africa, with overseas arrivals up 13% to reach 10m, according to the Ministry of Tourism. African markets dominate foreign arrivals, rising by 11% and making up about three-quarters of the total, other source markets also posted strong gains. Visitor numbers from China and India, two countries targeted by South Africa for their strong growth potential, increased by 38% and 22%, respectively.

This South Africa economic update was produced by Oxford Business Group.
The government of St Helena has announced that South Africa's largest independent airline, Airlink, was the preferred bidder to fly passengers between SA and the island. The only scheduled way to travel to and from St Helena was aboard the Royal Mail Ship St Helena until the airport opened. The ship is likely to be decommissioned in 2018 once scheduled flights are established.

Lisa Strachan via 123RF

According to a release on 9 June 2017, the St Helena Government will enter into a period of contractual negotiations with Airlink. It is anticipated that a formal announcement will be made in the coming weeks on completion of negotiations and contract signing. It is at this point SHG will be able to confirm details such as the commencement date, frequency, aircraft type, the international hub and connecting airports.

Mantis to meet influx of tourists with new "heritage" luxury hotel

An influx of tourists to the remote destination is anticipated and award-winning hospitality group Mantis have renovated three Georgian buildings to form a luxury hotel.

We always seek to unearth the exceptional and St Helena is just that, says Adrian Gardiner, founder and chairman of developers, the Mantis Collection. Not many people have visited this fascinating, isolated part of the globe. Now, with the announcement of Airlinks tender success, it will be so much easier to explore the islands natural wonders, culture, and intriguing history. Mantis is delighted to offer world-class hospitality to those visiting this unique destination, as well as employment opportunities to the Islanders.

The Mantis St Helena, will comprise 30 beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, eight of which will be heritage rooms in the original buildings, built circa 1744, and 22 newly constructed contemporary rooms. Two attractive terrace areas will cater for al fresco dining and cocktails, while a 60-seater dining room will serve cuisine of international standards. The hotel is wheelchair friendly.

St Helena is 2,000 kilometres from Africa, the nearest landmass, and boasts a variety of landscapes for tourists to discover. With hundreds of endemic species and impressive marine biodiversity, St Helena is on the United Kingdoms list as a possible future UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also of important historical significance, being the place to which Napoleon, King Dinuzulu kaCetshwayo and 6,000 Boer prisoners of war were banished.

Lengthy tender process

While St Helenas new airport on Prosperous Bay Plain has been open since mid-2016 for private aircraft and medical evacuations, the anticipated launch of regular commercial flights was delayed in order to establish which aircraft would be suitable for the airstrip. Comair, the winner of the original tender, had to re-evaluate its position after test flights with a 737-800 aircraft raised wind-shear and turbulence concerns for larger aircraft. As a result, the tender process was reopened.

In January 2017, Airlink acquired Embraer E-Jets and entered their tender bid with a proposal for direct flights to St Helena. In May 2017, an Airlink charter flight landed on the island with 60 passengers, who had been stranded in Cape Town due to HMS St Helena undergoing repairs. The Avro aircraft used for this flight had to refuel in Angola on the outward leg, and in Namibia on its return to Cape Town. Airlinks new Embraer E-Jets are also perfectly suited to conditions at St Helena and, with a greater range than the Avros, present the option of supplying direct flights from South Africa to the island, and possibly to Ascension and the Falklands Islands too.

Apart from its South African destinations, Airlink already flies to Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
The first ever Business Tourism Indaba was held at Hofmeyer Hall in Stellenbosch on Tuesday, 13 June 2017. Hosted by Stellenbosch 360 and in partnership with Wesgro and the South African National Convention Bureau the conference promised to unpack key trends and opportunities when it comes to business tourism in the Western Cape and specifically Stellenbosch.

Known for beautiful scenery, top class wine farms and amazing food, Stellenbosch has long been a destination to note when it comes leisure tourism however plans are now securely focused on growing the business opportunities the town has to offer as well.

The International Congress and Convention Associations (ICCA) recently ranked Stellenbosch as one of the top 10 cities in Africa for business tourism events and the town secured the seventh position in Africa for hosting association (business) meetings. Stellenbosch is aiming to leverage this recognition with many strategies and initiatives to promote business tourism throughout the town.

Stellenbosch is the place where companies can think about their African strategies. Tim Harris, Wesgro

From conference bag creation to catering, therere many employment options for local businesses and people when it comes to business events and incentive travel. Organisations are also looking to give back though CSI initiatives when travelling to new countries to make it a more enriching experience for their conference delegates.

Clarisse Coetzee Event Specialist on how to transform #conferences into memorable experiences! #meetinstellenbosch! pic.twitter.com/sOKpMdzIgq  Stellenbosch (@MyStellenbosch) June 13, 2017

Examples of this was the Media24 SpanPraat/ TeamSpeak 2015 conference held at the Stellenbosch University and organised by brand and event specialist and speaker at the Indaba Clarisse Coetzee. In her talk, she explained how the conference bags were made by the local community, these bags were made from recycled plastic and contained a solar powered light, these were then donated to three schools in Cloetesville after the conference had completed.

Image sourced from clarissecoetzee.blogspot.co.za

While Corne Koch, head of the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau spoke of how delegates often want to take something meaningful back regarding their travelling experience. For example a recent conference employed the local community to fix bikes, these were then used on a tour of Nyanga by the delegates and then donated to the people of Nyanga. Bringing this particular community initiative full circle.

Focus on effective destination branding

International speaker Bruce Redor from Gaining Edge, a convention and meeting advisory company, spoke about how a clear message and brand needs to be relayed by cities when it comes to creating a successful business event destination. From a catchy tag line to well-conceived strategy, the community needs to clearly communicate what their unique offerings are so companies can easily be attracted.

International speaker Bruce Redor from @GTEConferences chats key trends for creating a successful event destination #meetinstellenbosch pic.twitter.com/W3nGkaEkqH  Bizcom Tourism (@Biz_Tourism) June 13, 2017

Using Leuven, a small town in Paris, similar to Stellenbosch in many ways, as an example, Redor explained how local companies, knowledge institutions and the government all came on board with the town rebrand through the Leuven Mindgate initiative and identified the key type of events they wanted to be involved in. Redor also stressed identifying and communicating the elements of what makes your destination beneficial and desirable.

Net op tijd voor vanavond... A post shared by Leuven MindGate (@leuven_mindgate) on Dec 8, 2016 at 3:41am PST

Strong hospitality culture is key

Redor also spoke about the need to get your hospitality institutions (hotels, restaurants, etc.) on board when it comes to supplying quality and consistent service. Customer satisfaction is key to guaranteeing a returning clientele when it comes to future events as well as delegates who might want to return to travel in a personal capacity.

Zelda Coetzee-Burger, a business tourism consultant for Stellenbosch 360, echoed these sentiments. Explaining a key strategy for Stellenbosch 360 is to hook delegates with offers of tourism experiences and packages outside of the conference and enticing them into longer stays and return visits.

In short, it was generally agreed that Stellenbosch has great potential for hosting many more business tourism events in future. Unique and varied venues, beautiful scenery, amazing food and wine, a range of accommodation options as well as a strong academic base make this quaint town perfect for hosting events and conferences.

www.stellenbosch.travel

www.wesgro.co.za

businessevents.southafrica.net
SAN FRANCISCO, US: Apple views autonomous driving systems as a "core technology" for the future, chief executive Tim Cook said in an interview recently.

Cook told Bloomberg television that Apple wants to move into the automotive sector because "there is a major disruption looming" from new technologies.

The auto sector, Cook said, is being transformed by artificial intelligence and autonomous driving technology as well as by the development of better electric cars and the growth of ridesharing.

"We are focusing on autonomous systems," he told Bloomberg.

"The mother of all AI projects"

He said Apple sees this as "the mother of all AI projects" and that this is "a core technology that we view as very important."

While Apple has given no indication of specific projects for autonomous vehicles, it has joined the list of companies with permits to test self-driving cars in California, according to state records.

The California-based tech giant is expected to focus on software systems, letting partners manufacture vehicles, but would understandably want to be able to test its navigation technology in cars.

Source: AFP
Struggling state-owned regional airline South African Express made an unaudited R234m loss in the 2016-17 financial year, compared with a R16.9m profit in the previous year.

Revenue of R2.4bn was down from the previous R2.5bn and translated into a net operating loss of R104.7m, compared with the previous operating profit of R27m.

The results are provisional and will be finalised only at the end of July.

Passenger numbers fell

Passenger numbers fell from 1.309-million to 1.23-million in the 2016-17 year while flights operated declined from 33,234 in 2015-16 to 31,206 in 2016-17.

SA Express executives gave an outline of the challenges facing the airline to parliament's portfolio committee on public enterprises last week.

Acting CEO Victor Xaba - who was seconded to the company by public enterprises minister Lynne Brown from Denel Aerostructures in April - told MPs that the company's commercial viability and long-term financial sustainability had been undermined by its diminished competitive edge relative to privately owned airlines.

Poor balance sheet

He also identified the poor balance sheet as a problem and said this was linked to long-term aircraft leases which resulted in high fixed costs.

Liquidity and solvency were threatened, largely due to poor working capital management, legacy creditors, high spares costs and excessive debt.

Xaba noted that morale was very low and the organisation lacked a long-term vision of its future.

As soon as he arrived at the company, he picked up a lack of internal controls, which he had attempted to rectify.

The government is considering proposals to merge SA Express with the other state-owned airlines South African Airways (SAA) and Mango.

Source: BDpro
Bankmed has appointed New Media to publish Bankmed Bounce magazine. After a competitive pitch process New Media has been awarded the business and will be producing two printed magazines per annum, with a print run of over 115,000 copies, as well as ongoing digital content for Bankmed's various digital platforms. November will be the first issue published by New Media.

The New Media team demonstrated an understanding of our scheme, our brand and our target market and we were particularly impressed with their creative pitch. We are excited to work with New Media as we expand and improve the overall content offering for our membership, said Zubeir Shah, Senior Manager: Communications for Bankmed.

New Medias strategy is to have the very best editorial talent creating the very best content in specialist focus areas. The addition of the well-established and extremely respected Bankmed brand to the stable bolsters our healthy lifestyle credentials and were delighted to be working with their team. As healthy-living becomes the new cool, were well positioned to develop even stronger skills and expertise in this area, said Andrew Nunneley, Director: Content Strategy at New Media. Our team has a wealth of health expertise and features past editors and art directors from some of South Africas best-known health and lifestyle magazines. This editorial and creative depth allowed us to propose a fresh content and creative approach which will differentiate Bankmed Bounce magazine from the plethora of content available to South Africans.

Bankmed has been in operation since 1914 and is a closed medical scheme serving the South African banking industry.




Leaping into thin air... being tumbled through insane whitewater rapids...floating in a microlight above one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world...

Its moments like these that adrenalin-seekers crave when booking an adventure holiday. For exciting thrills and spills, the historic town of Livingstone in Zambia, is the perfect vacation-destination. It has more than its fair share of activities guaranteed to elevate pulse rates to the next level and is not known as Africas Adventure Capital for nothing!

Looking for ideas for your next heart-stopping that-was-insane! holiday? Here are a few suggestions:

1  Whitewater rafting

The lazy Zambezi upstream from the Victoria Falls gives no hint of the washing-machine-on-spin-cycle tumbles that lie ahead for whitewater rafters in the Batoka Gorge. Rated by the fraternity as the wildest one-day whitewater run in the world its an adventure to be enjoyed by beginners and experts alike. The names of some of the rapids give a clue of what to expect: Stairway to Heaven, Devils Toilet Bowl, Washing Machine and Double Trouble. Thrill-seekers will not be disappointed.

2  Abseiling

Descend the sheer walls of the Batoka Gorge that looms above the mighty Zambezi River, downstream from the Victoria Falls  one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The average height of the cliffs is 111 metres  providing a thrilling descent down to the base of the Gorge. Wannabe rock-rabbits have a variety of packages to choose from  half-day, full-day or a single abseil.

3  Jet Boat

High-velocity turns in narrow-river gorges, intense G-forces, getting completely drenched  that is what the Jet Boat Excursion has in store. Passengers on the thrilling joy-ride feel the full G-force of around 8 Gs as the crafts 700hp twin-turbocharged engines accelerate upstream. Holding-on-for-dear-life and nerves of steel are required as the pilot reaches speeds of 100 km/h, performs 360-degree spins and more. Shooting through The Bath and The Shower rapids will leave you soaked and yelling for more! End the thrilling adventure with an optional 15-minute chopper trip which swoops upstream just above the waters surface and treats passengers to a glorious view of the Falls before landing at the helipad. Its an extreme experience not-to-be-missed.

4  Bungee jumping

There is no grey area when it comes to bungee jumping. You either love it or not. The Victoria Falls Bridge (which links Zambia and Zimbabwe) is the launching pad for diving into thin air and plummeting 111 metres towards the swirling Zambezi River below. One can choose between jumping alone or tandem with a friend, or do the bridge swing  which entails leaping feet-first in an upright position and then swinging in a huge arc savouring the post-adrenalin rush.

5  Microlight Flight over Victoria Falls

Floating and swooping through the sky in a microlight provides the ultimate birds eye view of Victoria Falls and Batoka Gorge. Some describe a microlight as a lawnmower with wings; its just you, the pilot, the wings, metal frame, engine and the incredible rush of air as the microlight becomes airborne. Letting your feet dangle over the sides and spreading your arms wide will add to the thrill as you view the wildlife and scenery below. There are different packages to choose from and flights are subject to weather conditions. Proviso: If you have a fear of heights  this may not be for you.

Visit the Safari Par Excellence website for more information on these and other exciting activities and to book.
Tough economic times have seen a spike in complaints to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa's office, but many consumers are just looking for a way to back out of a car deal they can no longer afford.

 welcomia via 123RF

This is according to the industry's ombudsman, Johan van Vreden, who in a foreword to his 2016 annual report said "more often than not" consumers saw their complaint as "a way of getting out of the deal that they entered into when times were good".

"It is in this area where the newly established Motor Industry Ombudsman of SA has proved its mettle. Staff have to determine the legitimacy of the complaint before it's given to a case manager for processing," Van Vreden said.

The office's 10 case managers and their eight assistants handled just under 6000 cases last year, and closed more than 8000 (many of which were held over from 2015), with both figures being an increase on the previous year.

Single biggest "problem group"

The single biggest "problem group" by far, making up more than 3000 complaints, was what the ombud's office called "poor service".

The next biggest complaints category, with fewer than 1000 complaints, related to engine issues.

Under half of the cases - about 45% - dealt with by the office last year were settled in consumers' favour.

Since January 2015 it has been compulsory for all motor industry companies - from motor dealerships, panel shops, spares suppliers and filling stations to roadworthy centres - to adhere to the motor industry's code of conduct, as published as a Consumer Protection Act regulation.

Smaller players defying the code and the ombud

But two-and-a-half years later many of the smaller players in the industry are still brazenly defying the code and the ombud.

"Certain businesses - including many used car lots - refuse to accept the recommendations of MIOSA," Van Vreden said.

In that case, the complaint has to be referred to the National Consumer Tribunal for a ruling - a long process - or the consumer can go the costly legal route.

"MIOSA is adamant in its threat to publicise findings and businesses that fail to comply with our recommendations. We're very close to naming and shaming," Van Vreden said.

Source: The Times
Black Coffee has expressed disappointment over the return of "old American music" on radio stations since the SABC's u-turn on the 90% local content quota.

He took to Twitter to share his observation of how radio stations have seemingly gone back to playing more international music and how that would affect the "culture".

"Old American Radio Stations ... there goes our culture," the DJ said.

Black Coffee's comments sparked a debate on Twitter after he was accused of "pushing hate" .

He said music has a culture, which would be negatively impacted by the flood of international music on radio.

As the tweet got more traction, Black Coffee's cyber army jumped into the conversation and voted for the 90% quota to stay.

The local content quota was reviewed shortly after former SABC chief operating officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng was suspended.

An interim board discussed the reversal of the controversial quota for several weeks before a decision was made.

SABC spokesman Kaizer Kganyago said the board decided to revert to the directive set by Independent Communications Authority of SA, which determines how much local content is played.

"The board was guided by the principles made by Icasa. We wish to also make it clear that the SABC is not anti-transformation; the decision is to play as much local music as possible," he said.
NEWSWATCH: Outsurance's Father's Day advert was ill-conceived by a 'young' staff member and branded as 'racist' for featuring predominantly white fathers, with numerous Twitter users lambasting the insurer and threatening to cancel their policies (see Twitter feed below), arguing that the campaign wasn't representative of South Africa's demographics, reports Kyle Venktess from Fin24

A screenshot of the Outsurance Fathers Day ad. Image credit: IOL.co.za

Captioned Happy #FathersDay to all amazing dads out there, the social media ad portrayed mostly white fathers (only one black father) spending time with their kids to celebrate Fathers Day, suggesting that only white men make good fathers.

Outsurance apologised in a tweet: We apologise for our Father's Day video. It did not appropriately represent SA's demographics. It was an unintentional oversight.

Providing further comment, Peter Cronje, head of marketing at the insurance company, blamed a junior staff member. This advert was created by one of our junior ladies in the social media department and I believe she made an innocent mistake when she created and posted this video.

This is the first time we have had trouble with one of our ads because we make sure that they are representative of the countrys demographics, Cronje told The Star. Khaya Koko from Independent Online reports.

For more:
In the #StartupStory spotlight this week is Flexpay: a product created in response to the high demand in the market for purchasing goods via piecemeal payments. Flexpay provides a secure system that manages the purchase process.

Tell us about your startup business. How did you come about the idea?

The main reason as to why we started the Flexpay solution is simple and straightforward: to solve a problem that we experience firsthand. For us, as campus students, acquiring and making one-off payments for important items such as laptops, fridges, and many others was virtually impossible due to financial inabilities.

However, manual layaway option was a tedious exercise since one had to balance time for class, and making trips to merchants to deliver part-payments for these items. This spurred the idea to automate the process to make it simple and convenient to both the user and the merchants. To bridge a gap in the market. To think, create, and implement a lasting verdict that would make a positive impact in the lives of targeted Kenyans - and Africans at large.

The possibility of it being regionally scaled fueled the development of both the platform and the team.

How did you hear about, and what motivated you to apply for the Barclays Accelerator programme?

We heard about this program through social media. The greatest benefit that motivated us was the prospect of good mentoring that would help the team avoid the common mistakes that add to the huge infant entrepreneur mortality rate statistic in the startup business world.

We are looking forward to receiving good mentoring and also other benefits such as gaining pitching and networking opportunities, introductions to investors and meeting face to face with them (which can be hard to get for first-time founders), and to secure scale-up funds, which is a great motivation.

What is the long-term vision for your company?

Our vision is to empower people who wouldnt otherwise have access to essential goods and services e.g. health, clean energy, proper education, and other essential life assets.

Within three years we want to have helped and gained the trust of more than a million long-term and short-term customers so that they feel secure enough to build a future for themselves and their families. Having a database of more than a million users on our platform will help us expand into other industries targeted by the same solution.

Our goal is to play a significant role in ensuring financial inclusivity, not only in Africa but around the globe since the challenges we are solving are global in nature.

What do you hope to gain/learn from this programme?

To us, the most important aspect of this programme is mentorship. We hope to gain connections with an active and sizable startup/fintech community and network. The chance to meet people in the tech industry, both from successful startups and in larger tech businesses. We also hope to learn more about the dynamics of the fintech startup space and tools that will enable us to achieve our goals of being the most preferred payment platform.

What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming 13 weeks of the programme?

There's a lot of excitement! Interacting with mentors, learning about new opportunities, and getting introduced to the vast Techstars community. We are also keen on introducing our platform to the South African market.

We are most excited about the whole experience!

How do you define the word "success"?

Ensuring that marginalised communities and lower middle-class individuals have an improved purchasing power to afford basic and semi-basic commodities, thereby improving their living standards.

Follow the Flexpay journey here.
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia - Lack of education and mismatched skills remain major obstacles to Africa's development agenda and with an estimated 364 million Africans between the age of 15 and 35 years, Africa has the world's youngest population.

 Matthias Ziegler via 123RF

The African Union Commission cautions that the future of Africas economic growth and the future of millions of Africans, is in jeopardy, if the underlying issues that hinder development are not adequately addressed.

With Africa expected to double its population over the next 25 years and the working-age population expected to grow by approximately 450 million between 2015 and 2035, the African Union Commission deputy chairperson, Ambassador Kwesi Quartey, says it is critical to urgently address the lack of education and mismatched skills, as major causes of rising numbers of unemployment.

Speaking during the opening of the EU-Africa Business Forum in Brussels, Belgium, the deputy chairperson underscored the need to find linkages between education, training and the labour market, especially as the African Union focuses on the theme of the year, Harnessing the demographic dividend through investments in the youth.

He noted that institutions of higher learning in Africa need to review and diversify their systems of education and expand the level of skills, to make them relevant to the demands of the labour market. Ambassador Kwesi stated that realising growth in technical fields that support industrialisation, manufacturing and development in the value chains will remain stunted, if the youth are not facilitated and adequately prepared for the job market.

Job creation

Our institutions are churning out thousands of graduates each year, but these graduates cannot find jobs because the education systems are traditionally focused on preparing graduates for white collar jobs, with little regard to the demands of the private sector, innovation or entrepreneurship, he stated.

He further added the need for Africa to make deliberate efforts to have, Every child in school by 2020, to ensure each African child has great start and foundation in life.

The EU-Africa Business Forum, held under the theme Investing in job creation, with special focus on agribusiness, sustainable energy and digitisation, provided a platform for high-level dialogue aimed at expanding investments between Europe and Africa. The deputy chairperson in this context urged the private sector to invest in the value chains in agribusiness. With Africas agricultural market projected to reach 1 trillion dollars by 2030, and the human population projected to reach 2.7 billion in 2060, Ambassador Kwesi noted that growing labour force presents significant growth opportunities and an expanded consumer market for Africa.

Agriculture is a sector where the role of both, the public and private sectors is much needed to contribute towards our continental goals, such as eradicating poverty and hunger, boosting intra-African trade and investments, industrialisation and creating jobs for our growing population. Let us support our small scale farmers and the Small and Medium size entrepreneurs, he added.

Investment

The Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), envisages investments of 360 billion dollars by the year 2040, with priority investments of over 67 billion dollars by 2020. These investments are aimed towards key infrastructure sectors of energy, trans-boundary water supply, transport, information and communications technology (ICT). In this regard, Kwesi encouraged the private sector to invest in the energy sector to reduce the overall cost of doing business in Africa.

If we look at infrastructure, reducing the costs in the agriculture sector relies on investing on quality and integrated rural infrastructure, such as irrigation systems, roads, rails and the ports. To realise these infrastructural projects, Africa needs a reliable, sustainable and affordable energy sector. he added.

With an estimated 364 million Africans between the age of 15 and 35 years, Africa has the worlds youngest population. This provides an immense opportunity for investing in the next generation of African leaders and entrepreneurs. Key pillars of Agenda 2063 and the Common African Position, have given primacy to youth development, science, technology and innovation as critical aspects of socio-economic development of the continent.

Through the private sector development strategy, the African Union encourages investments such as creating and supporting business start-up incubation centres across Africa, as foundations for mentorship and sharing of valuable business insights, to help youth and women entrepreneurs.

The deputy chairperson observed that there remains a huge untapped potential that can be capitalised with the establishment of ICT parks and ecommerce.

The EU-Africa Business Forum is part of a series of events organised by European Development Days (EDD) across Africa and Europe, on three key topics, green energy, agri-business and digitalisation. Outcomes from the forum will include a business declaration to be presented at the 5th Africa-EU Summit of Heads of State and Government, due to take place on 29-30 November in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire.
Pioneering a mobile-first approach to the $600bn a year remittance industry, WorldRemit is bringing together the leading players in mobile payments from Silicon Valley and Sub-Saharan Africa.

WorldRemit, a leading digital money transfer service, has added Android Pay to its service, offering a new way for WorldRemits Android Pay users to send money internationally and reach millions using mobile money accounts.

Launching the global rollout of the service at MoneyConf 2017, WorldRemit will enable Android Pay users to safely and securely send money to +112 million mobile money accounts accessible via its network. The integration will make WorldRemit the only remittance provider offering international payments through Android Pay around the globe.

By connecting directly with Android Pay, WorldRemit customers can transfer money instantly across continents in just five taps - without entering credit card or 3DS details. Using mobile money, a recipient customer can then pay for school fees, utility bills and groceries among other things directly from their mobile phones - without the need for 3G or wifi. As Android Pay is supported by industry standard tokenisation, payments are sent with a virtual account number providing an extra layer of security.

WorldRemit currently sends money to more mobile money accounts than any other operator in the world. The company enables migrants to send money from their smartphones to the mobile phones of the people they love, in over 140 countries to be paid out in cash, paid into a bank account or into a mobile money account.

Alice Newton-Rex, VP of Product at WorldRemit, comments: Currently 60% of WorldRemit app users are on Android, which is also by far the most popular mobile operating system in the developing world, where 2 billion people are still unbanked, but critically half a billion use their mobiles as a bank account.

This integration with Android Pay is the next logical step of our mobile first approach, and continues our commitment to providing greater financial inclusion.

Pali Bhat, director, product management at Google, said: "We want to make it easier for organisations like WorldRemit to offer a simpler, faster in-app payment solution for their customers. With Android Pay, people will be able to speed through checkout with their Android phones in a few clicks".

WorldRemit users make around 600,000 transactions every month, sending from over 50 countries to more than 140 destinations.
Advertising Week, the world's largest annual gathering of marketing, media, and technology leaders, makes its long-anticipated debut in Africa on 14-19 February 2023, after the planned launch was delayed by the global pandemic.
According to the Cifas study, cases of identity fraud in the UK are at an all-time high. The number of cases reported has risen by over 68% since 2010 to almost 173,000 individual cases.

Despite making up just 9% of the UK population, 19% of identify fraud victims were company directors, found the study. The reason, says Cifas Chairman, Lady Barbara Judge CBE, was the sheer amount of information available publicly online and through Companies House.

While the most common targets of identify fraud are aged between 41 and 50, more than a quarter (28%) of director-level victims were in their 30s. This, says the report, contradicts any notion that identity fraudsters deliberately target older people based on their perceived affluence and status in life.

Lady Barbara Judge warns in a Cifas blog post that directors can ill-afford to ignore this research and their inevitable vulnerability. While the proliferation of data loss through hacks and breaches has made a significant contribution to the rising levels of identity fraud, there are steps that company directors should take if they are to limit the potential damage that a fraudster can make.

There will always be more publicly available information about those who run their own business compared to other individuals. Fraudsters are happy to play the long game and piece together as much detail as they can to complete the jigsaw. It is not easy to keep everything in our lives private in todays modern world, but I would encourage company directors to do as much as possible to separate their personal and company, she added.
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As talks on Brexit formally begin in Brussels later today, it has been claimed Irish companies may need to be subsidised to the tune of 300-400m per year in order to help them trade through the disruption, writes Stephen Rogers.

Ibec, which made the call, suggested the funding should come from the EU and the Government. It said the resources required will be in the region of 5% of the value of current indigenous annual export sales to the UK and that up to 400m may be needed annually in a worst case scenario.

It comes as Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced he is to meet the British Prime Minister Theresa May in Downing Street today.

Mr Varadkar said: "I am looking forward to travelling to Downing Street today to meet the British Prime Minister, Theresa May. I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom.

"Among other things, we will discuss Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved Government, and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens, on trade and the economy."

The employers body says the monies would be to help Irish companies innovate, diversify into new markets, train staff and invest for the future. It recognises that, given the size of our export/import relationship with Britain, under its proposal the supports Ireland would get from the EU would be greater than other member states.

But as Fergal OBrien, Ibecs director of policy, pointed out the situation is not of our making and we should not be economically challenged as a result of it.

Ibec will today launch, what it describes as, a comprehensive set of proposals to progress EU-UK negotiations and limit the negative impact of Brexit on business and the wider economy.

It says the approach to the negotiations should, amongst other things, target a smooth exit, comprehensive transitional arrangements, the closest possible future relationship, and the unique Irish challenges.

It believes the recent election in Britain has opened up possibilities, not least a greater chance that it will remain in the customs union.

Fergal O'Brien of IBEC.

"Any deal must recognise the unique economic and political challenge for Ireland and include a range of specific measures to address these, said Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy.

An early focus on avoiding a hard border with Northern Ireland is vital, but the Irish approach must also be informed by the greater economic importance of the east-west Irish-British trading relationship. Across both trade and investments, the outcome of negotiations must not disadvantage Ireland.

As well as the state aid measures, Ibec makes recommendations around trade; customs; the single market and regulation; and the common travel area and the all-island economy.

It is in everyone's overwhelming economic interest for the UK to remain in the EU customs union, but if not, close cooperation and simplified custom procedures will be needed, Ibec said. An agreement on trade and customs on the island of Ireland should be framed in the first phase of talks. The UK and EU should also agree a common transit system early in the negotiations.

Ibec pointed out that there are certain sectors of the economy here which are particularly exposed by Brexit. While roughly 14% of goods and 20% of services exports go to the UK, that proportion is much higher for specific sectors of the economy.

These are sectors that are typically jobs-intensive and are located in rural parts of the country, the employers body said.

It pointed out that, in the Agri-food sector, more than 4.3bn annually is spent on purchases from primary producers. A further 2.1bn is spent on compensation of employees in the sector who primarily live in rural locations.

There are 230,000 people employed directly and indirectly in the agri-food supply chain and 40% of its exports (4.4bn) go to the UK, it said. In the region of 46,000 jobs in the sector (2.3% of total employment in the economy) are linked directly or indirectly to exports to the UK.

On the services side, it said those most exposed are transport services (2.5bn representing 60% of total exports) and financial services (2.25bn representing 30% of total exports).

Tourism is also heavily reliant on the UK as 41% of visitors to Ireland come from Britain and the UK accounts for 32% of total travel services exports, Ibec said.

It warned that Irelands exposure to the UK is even higher for imports, as 32% of goods imports come from there. This is more than three times the share of the next highest country, and much higher than the EU average of only 4%.
Passengers at Dublin Airport were spontaneously treated to a boarding call out of the ordinary on Saturday as the checked into their flight to Wales.

Just so happens, Cork natives The Molgoggers also happened to be on the flight and instead of the traditional tannoy final call the band seneraded their fellow passengers with their original song, All Aboard.
University of Limerick has been designated a University of Sanctuary in recognition of its initiatives welcoming asylum seekers and refugees into its university community.

President of UL, Dr Des Fitzgerald made the announcement at the first Department of Justice and Equality Citizenship Ceremony hosted by the university.

The ceremony saw 355 people from around the globe receive their Certificates of Naturalisation, officially becoming Irish citizens.

In being designated as a University of Sanctuary, UL has committed to a three-year action plan to promote access and to integrate those from a refugee and asylum background into third level education, he said.

Dr Fitzgerald also outlined a number of initiatives run by the university which engage with people seeking sanctuary in Ireland.

He described the award as a huge honour for UL adding we will use this award to be a regional leader in promoting a culture of welcome, and to provide a space for the celebration of the richness and diversity a multilingual and multicultural group brings to our community, both culturally and economically.

We also pledge to use our knowledge and commitment to be a key driver in the movement to have the Limerick region designated as a Place of Sanctuary, promoting the integration, inclusion and welfare of refugees and asylum seekers for the benefit of society as a whole."

The University of Sanctuary award will be officially presented to UL on UN World Refugee Day next Tuesday.

UL will now offer scholarships to up to 17 people, aged over 22 years and living in Direct Provision. Most of these 17 will begin the Mature Student Access Certificate (MSAC) in September for the academic year 2017/2018. Scholarships comprise a fee waiver and a contribution towards travel, on-campus subsistence, stationery, printing and IT requirements.

The Mature Student Access Certificate (MSAC) is a one year full-time pre-degree course designed for mature students who wish to develop or refresh key learning skills, and to undertake some foundation level academic studies, before applying directly for a degree programme.

From next year, refugees and asylum seekers currently in second-level education will also be eligible to apply for scholarships.

Dr Mairead Moriarty, Chair of the University of Limericks Sanctuary steering committee said the current refugee crisis tests the inner strength of our educational culture.

"At the University of Limerick we firmly believe that a University education should be a possibility for all.

"We have been committed to providing access to our University for people from all backgrounds and we are delighted to extend this to people currently living in Direct Provision through our announcement of 17 sanctuary scholarships.
The "very sensitive" issue of the Irish border may not be resolved until near the end of the Brexit talks, David Davis has acknowledged.

The issue dominated the opening day of the Brexit negotiations that will see the UK leave the European Union.

Brexit Secretary David Davis said it could take "until the end of the process" to resolve the issue, because it will be tied in with the trade and customs deals the UK is able to strike with Brussels.

Both the UK and EU are determined to avoid the return of a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland or anything that could undermine the Good Friday Agreement.

At a press conference in Brussels, Mr Davis said: "We discussed two aspects of it. One of course is the political sensitivities which everybody understands.

"The other is the determination to maintain an, as near as possible, invisible border so we do not undermine the peace process, do not provide any cause for concern in Northern Ireland.

"This is a technically difficult issue but it is one which I am certain is soluble, although it will probably take us until the end of the process when we have already decided what our customs and free trade arrangements are."

EU Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier, who was a senior EU official involved in the peace process, acknowledged that "this is one of the most sensitive issues before us" and there was an "awful lot of work to do".

The situation could be complicated by the potential deal between Theresa May's Tories and the Democratic Unionist Party as she seeks support for her minority administration in Westminster.

Mr Barnier said: "There is a very, very sensitive political dimension to this.

"The new Northern Irish executive needs to be set up in a few days' time, at the same time we have a new government and a new Taoiseach in Dublin and of course there are the ongoing political discussion in London which we are also following closely."

He said the EU wanted to "preserve all the dimensions and commitments of the Good Friday Agreement" and maintain the UK-Ireland common travel area.

"The other problem in parallel with that is that without creating a new hard border, at the same time we have to come up with solutions - especially for goods and services - but in a way that is compliant with the normal rules and integrity of the internal market.

"So we have got a very sensitive political context, a very clear objective which is to preserve all the dimensions of the Good Friday Agreement and we have an awful lot of work to do - bilaterally, and also in coordination with the Dublin government on my side, so that we come up with imaginative and concrete solutions along the lines I have described, particularly taking into account the single market."

A special dialogue involving senior negotiators from each side has been set up to consider the issue, with Mr Davis' senior mandarin Olly Robbins holding talks with Mr Barnier's deputy Sabine Weyand on the issue.

Officials are hopeful that on some areas of the Northern Ireland question there can be swift progress but Mr Davis acknowledged the question as a whole "will take some considerable time".

Mr Davis denied that the way the issue was being handled was due to the potential deal with the DUP at Westminster.

"It has absolutely nothing to do with any negotiations inside the House of Commons," he insisted.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he wants to renew the close bond with the UK ahead of talks with Theresa May in Downing Street.

In his first official overseas visit since being elected Taoiseach last week, Mr Varadkar travels to London where Northern Ireland and Brexit will top the agenda.

"I am looking forward to travelling to Downing Street today to meet the British Prime Minister, Theresa May," he said.

"I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom.

"Among other things, we will discuss Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved Government, and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens, on trade and the economy."

Northern Ireland's political parties are reopening talks aimed at restoring devolution to the region.

They have until a June 29 deadline to agree a way forward after Sinn Fein collapsed the Stormont Executive earlier this year amid deepening mistrust and worsening relations with the Democratic Unionist Party.

The DUP's deal to prop up the Tories at Westminster is also likely to be discussed at Downing Street.

Last week, Mr Varadkar warned Ms May about getting too close to the DUP, as both governments have roles as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, which secured peace in the region after decades of conflict.

The Taoiseach said he would be emphasising this to the Prime Minister.

The pair shared a phone call on Thursday.

Ms May said she was steadfastly committed to the Good Friday Agreement and wanted to see a "close and special partnership" with the Republic of Ireland post-Brexit.
Two young Dublin men have pleaded guilty to beating up a man and robbing 20,000 of Boodles jewellery from him.

The victim was kicked in the face during the assault on Dame Lane which was described by the judge as violent and aggressive.

The court heard the victim in this case was on Dame Lane in Dublins city centre in September 2016 when he was attacked by up to three men.

He was punched, kicked and had his bag stolen.

Two necklaces worth 10,000 each were inside the bag from Boodles.

22-year-old Jordan Carthy of St Marys Road in Eastwall and 18-year-old Shane Walsh of Thomas Davis Street in Inchicore pleaded guilty to the assault and robbery.

The judge was told the young men had taken drink and drugs that night and did not know what was in the bag when they stole it.

CCTV footage showed Jordan Carthy holding the victim down while Shane Walsh stamped on his head.

The victim said his nose was broken during the assault and that he genuinely thought he was going to be killed and feels lucky to be alive.

The men will be sentenced next month.
Otto Warmbier, an American college student who was released by North Korea in a coma last week after more than a year in captivity, died on Monday, his family said.

The 22-year-old "has completed his journey home", the family said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, the awful, torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," his parents said.

Doctors had described his condition as a state of "unresponsive wakefulness" and said he suffered a "severe neurological injury" of unknown cause.

President Donald Trump called North Korea a "brutal regime" after the death was announced.

Mr Trump said: "Lot of bad things happened but at least we got him home to be with his parents."

His father, Fred Warmbier, said last week he believed Otto had been fighting for months to stay alive to return to his family.

Their statement on Monday said he had looked uncomfortable and anguished after returning June 13, but his countenance later changed.

"He was peace. He was home, and we believe he could sense that," they said.

Mr Warmbier was convicted of subversion after he tearfully confessed that he had tried to steal a propaganda banner while visiting with a tour group from China.

He was sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labour in North Korea.

The University of Virginia student was held for more than 17 months.

His family said last week they were told he had been a coma since soon after his March 2016 sentencing.

Doctors said he has suffered extensive loss of brain tissue and "profound weakness and contraction" of his muscles, arms and legs.

His eyes opened and blinked, but without signs of understanding verbal commands or his surroundings.

North Korea said he went into a coma after contracting botulism and taking a sleeping pill.

Doctors in Cincinnati said they found no active sign of botulism nor evidence of beatings.

His parents said in a statement on the day of his release that they wanted "the world to know how we and our son have been brutalised and terrorised by the pariah regime" and expressed relief he had been returned to "finally be with people who love him".

Fred Warmbier praised his son's "performance" and Mr Trump's administration.

He was critical of former President Barack Obama's approach to his son's situation.

Otto Warmbier grew up in the northern Cincinnati suburb of Wyoming.

He won an award at the highly rated high school, and was on the soccer team, among other activities.

Three Americans remain held in North Korea.

The US government accuses North Korea of using such detainees as political pawns.

North Korea accuses Washington and South Korea of sending spies to overthrow its government.

At the time of Mr Warmbier's release, a White House official said Joseph Yun, the US envoy on North Korea, had met with North Korean foreign ministry representatives in Norway the previous month.

Such direct consultations between the two governments are rare because they do not have formal diplomatic relations.

At the meeting, North Korea agreed Swedish diplomats could visit all four American detainees.

Mr Yun learned about Mr Warmbier's condition in a meeting a week before the release from the North Korean ambassador at the UN in New York.

Mr Yun then was dispatched to North Korea and visited Mr Warmbier on June 12 with two doctors and demanded his release on humanitarian grounds.

AP
Survivors have emerged with stories of leaping into water tanks and other dramatic escapes from the deadly forest fires scorching central Portugal.

Authorities have come under mounting criticism for not doing more to prevent the country's deadliest natural disaster in decades.

More than 2,700 firefighters are still battling to contain several major wildfires in the area north-east of Lisbon, where one blaze that began on Saturday killed 62 people, many of them as they tried to flee the flames in their cars.

Water-dropping planes from Spain, France and Italy arrived as part of a European Union co-operation programme but they were grounded in some places because thick smoke limited visibility, officials said.

That left firefighters - backed by fire engines and bulldozers - to do the heavy work on the ground in temperatures that approached 40C (104F).

Firefighters brought some of the blazes under control, but other wildfires still raced through inaccessible parts of the area's steep hills, the Civil Protection Agency said.

Portugal is observing three days of national mourning after the deaths on Saturday night around the town of Pedrogao Grande, 150 kilometres (90 miles) north of Lisbon.

Scorching weather, as well as strong winds and woods that are bone dry after weeks with little rain, fuelled the blazes.

Villages dot the landscape, much of it now scorched.

In Nodeirinho, a hillside village of a few dozen people, 84-year-old Marta da Conceicao said residents called the fire services more than 20 times for help on Saturday.

"Nobody came. They were up in the mountain or somewhere else," she said. "Here it was up to God and the people."

As the flames licked at her, burning her leg, she and her elderly neighbours survived by jumping into a water storage tank.

A British man living nearby also had a hair-raising escape.

Daniel Starling had jumped in his car and raced away as the flames bore down.

He came across a family of four elderly people and picked them up.

Mr Starling said he drove around fallen trees and even off the road in his quest to reach safety.

"We stopped at one point, because we did not know where to go, because there were flames everywhere. But I just carried on the only way that I knew. (It was) just flames over the car and the family and me screaming," said the 56-year-old, from Norwich.

They stopped when they came to a policeman at a junction.

"The family," Mr Starling said, "got out and they were kissing the car."

Officials said 47 of the dead in Saturday night's blaze died on a road as they fled the flames.

Fire experts, meanwhile, pointed to a series of shortcomings in Portugal's strategy of tackling wildfires, even though the summer blazes have been happening for decades.

There is a broad consensus that more work is needed on fire prevention, starting with forest clearing and the creation of fire breaks.

"In Portugal, the main factor in the scale of wildfires is the unbroken stretches of forest," Paulo Fernandes, a forest researcher at Portugal's Tras-os-Montes e Alto Douro University, said.

But he noted that around 90% of landowners have smallholdings, making it difficult for authorities to keep tabs on them all.

Xavier Viegas, a wildfire expert at Portugal's Coimbra University, said Portugal needs a long-term strategy, but changes in government often mean changes in forest and farm policies.

He said a key measure would be the creation of "fire-resilient communities" who receive instructions on what to do when faced with a wildfire and to not act rashly.

"We need to prepare them so that they don't go dashing off in cars," Mr Viegas said.

Portugal's leading environmental lobby group, Quercus, blamed the blazes on "forest management errors and bad political decisions" by governments over recent decades.

It rebuked authorities for allowing the planting of huge swathes of eucalyptus trees - the country's most common and most profitable species - but one that is often blamed for stoking blazes.

Emergency services have also been criticised for not closing the road where most of the deaths occurred.

Wildfires are an annual scourge in Portugal.

Between 1993 and 2013, Portugal recorded the highest annual number of forest fires in southern Europe, according to a report last year by the European Environment Agency.

The government announced a raft of new measures against wildfires in March.

They included restrictions on eucalyptus plantations and a simplified and cheaper programme of property registration that seeks to ascertain which land is being neglected.

Not all of those reforms have come into force yet.

Statistics show that 35% of Portugal is covered by woodland, slightly above the EU average of 31%.

The forest industry, especially the production of paper pulp, accounts for around 3% of the country's GDP.

AP
The US Navy has promised a full investigation into a collision between a destroyer and a container ship off Japan that killed seven sailors.

The navy's acting secretary Sean Stackley said "we are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our fellow shipmates".

He also praised their colleagues for saving the USS Fitzgerald from further damage and bringing it back to port.

Mr Stackley promised to "fully investigate" the cause of the collision at about 2.20am on Saturday between the Fitzgerald and a Philippine-flagged container ship four times its size, as many of the crew slept.

Navy divers recovered the bodies after the severely-damaged Fitzgerald returned to the The 7th Fleet's home in Yokosuka, Japan, with assistance from tug boats.

The dead sailors were aged between 19 and 37.

Commander of the 7th Fleet Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin described a harrowing scene as sailors fought to keep the ship from sinking.

Most of the damage was below the waterline, including a large gash near the keel, he said.

"The water flow was tremendous, and so there wasn't a lot of time in those spaces that were open to the sea. And as you can see now, the ship is still listing, so they had to fight the ship to keep it above the surface. It was traumatic," he said.

Vice Admiral Aucoin said one machinery room and two berthing areas for 116 crew members were severely damaged from the impact to the ship's side.

Navy spokesman Lieutenant Paul Newell said the victims may have been killed by the impact of the collision or drowned in the flooding.

The Fitzgerald's captain, Commander Bryce Benson, suffered a head injury in the collision and was airlifted to the US Naval Hospital in Yokosuka. Two other crew members suffered cuts and bruises and were also flown out by helicopter.

Conditions were clear at the time of the collision, though the area is particularly busy with sea traffic.

The damage to the destroyer suggests that the container ship, the ACX Crystal, might have slammed into it at a high speed, raising questions about communication between the two vessels in an area where as many as 400 ships pass through every day, according to Japan's coastguard.

Most congestion occurs in the early hours of the day, and fast currents make it a tricky area that requires experience and skill to navigate.

The ACX Crystal weighs 29,060 tons and 730 feet, much larger than the 8,315-ton destroyer.

The container ship's left bow was dented and scraped, and accident investigators from the Japanese transport ministry found further damage below its waterline.

Footage from Japanese broadcaster NHK showed a sharp horizontal cut across the bow area, which looked like a shark's mouth. Many scratches were also seen in the frontal area.

Some ship trackers showed the container ship making a U-turn before the collision, a move that has raised questions about what happened.

The coastguard questioned crew members of the ACX Crystal and is treating the collision as a case of possible professional negligence, said Masayuki Obara, a regional official.

All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, according to Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen, which operates the ship.

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe sent a sympathy message to US president Donald Trump, saying: "We are struck by deep sorrow.

"I express my heartfelt solidarity to America at this difficult time."

Jennifer Adkison of Granbury, Texas, whose 20-year-old son, Bruce, a fifth-generation sailor, survived the collision, said in a Facebook message that families were grieving for those who died and trying to get clothing and other items to survivors who lost all their possessions.

"The only other day I have been so overwhelmed with joy to hear my son's voice was the day he was born," Ms Adkison said.

Mia Sykes of Raleigh, North Carolina, said her 19-year-old son, sailor Brayden Harden, from Herrin, Illinois, kept diving to try to save his shipmates until their flooded sleeping berth began running out of air pockets, while other survivors - believing their ship was under attack - hurried to man the guns.

Ms Sykes said her son told her that four men in his berth, including those sleeping on bunks above and below him died, while three died in the berth above his.

"They did what they were trained to do," she said.

"You have to realise most of them are 18, 19 and 20-year-olds living with guilt. But I told him, 'There's a reason you're still here, and make that count'."

AP
A man accused of hiding with a gun in his ex-girlfriend's Canberra home and detaining her after their relationship soured was brought before the ACT Supreme Court for a trial on Monday.

Drew Francis Thompson allegedly waited in the woman's Lyneham apartment, detaining her with a gun over a three-hour ordeal ended by tactical response police in November 2013.

A man accused of hiding with a gun in his ex-girlfriend's Canberra home after their relationship soured was brought before the ACT Supreme Court for a retrial on Monday. Credit:Louie Douvis

The pair had met in March 2013 on the dating website eHarmony, but the relationship quickly deteriorated, leading to a public spat in October 2013, where the defence contended the woman had "humiliated" and yelled at Mr Thompson.

That argument allegedly led to Mr Thompson entering her home in November 2013, waiting for her with a gun, putting a gloved hand to her mouth and telling her not to scream, before detaining the woman for at least two hours.
National Australia Bank financial planners are worried a review of problems with witnessing of documents could result in staff being reported under a new industry-wide scheme to identify misconduct.

The bank is currently conducting a review into witnessing of documents within its financial planning arm, after it came to light that some staff had been incorrectly witnessing declarations on forms that authorise who gets a client's superannuation if they die.

NAB is reviewing its methods. Illustration: Simon Bosch

While no planners have yet been penalised over this affair, NAB has asked staff to "self report" if they may have wrongly witnessed documents, and flagged it may cut bonuses by up to 25 per cent.

The Financial Sector Union, which argues the false witnessing was "normal practice" within parts of the bank, on Monday urged the bank not to include any compliance breaches it detects through the review in a new scheme on bank background checks.
Disgraced former unionist Kathy Jackson is now facing more than 160 criminal theft and fraud charges for allegedly misappropriating hundreds of thousands of dollars from the Health Services Union.

Ms Jackson appeared on Monday morning in the Melbourne Magistrates Court, where she faces the prospect of criminal convictions and a jail sentence if she is found guilty.

Police allege Ms Jackson misrepresented more than $500,000 of personal expenses as union expenses while she was the HSU secretary. All 164 police charges relate to 70 allegations that were laid against her by detectives from Taskforce Heracles last year.

Racked up on her multiple union-issued credit cards, her allegedly illegal expenses include hundreds of thousands of dollars on airfares and luxury hotel accommodation while Ms Jackson was on multiple overseas vacations in cities such as New York, Las Vegas and Hong Kong.
It hasn't been a good time for our image of ourself as a tolerant, cosmopolitan society that is comfortable in the 21st-century world.

First up, Mia Freedman, the publisher of the Mamamia website, made a hash of a podcast interview with Roxane Gay.

Gay is the author of Bad Feminist, a book about her life as a black, queer, fat woman. In her introduction to the podcast, Freedman described Gay as "super-morbidly obese" and wondered whether she would fit into the office lift.

Freedman seems to have been trying to share some moments from the day-to-day struggles Gay has faced in her life  she also posted, "None of this is disclosed in a mean spirit, it's part of what Roxane writes about in her new book, Hunger"  but it came across as another one of those WTF moments: a thin, middle class, straight white woman betraying her anxiety about confronting someone so different with lame attempts at lightness. Social media had a field day, and Freedman  whose website describes itself as the "largest independent women's website in Australia"  was lashed for her lack of understanding of contemporary feminism.
Rising temperatures and humidity will make the world's tropics increasingly unliveable by pushing more people to the thresholds of their physical tolerance and beyond, a new international study finds.

As of 2000, about 30 per cent of the world's population lived in regions where the climate exceeds deadly threshold levels  based on temperature and relatively humidity levels  for at least 20 days a year, researchers publishing in the Nature Climate Change journal estimate.

Even with the most optimistic scenario for greenhouse gas emissions reductions, that share will rise to about 48 per cent by the end of the century. If so-called business as usual emissions continue, that share would climb to 74 per cent by then, the paper found.

"You are going to have all of those people in the tropics 'cooking' there because they are not going to have any possibility to cope with this [increase in heat and humidity]," said Camilo Mora, the paper's lead author and an associate professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Hawaii, Manoa.
The Federal Government's controversial intervention in the Northern Territory has been exposed as a multimillion-dollar failure that only worsened the abuse of Indigenous children.

About 50 per cent of Indigenous children in the NT now come to the attention of the child protection system by the age of 10, the Royal Commission into the Protection and Detention of Children in the Northern Territory was told on Monday

There are fears the number of Indigenous children at risk of harm is increasing. Credit:Angela Wylie

Clinical child psychologist and researcher Professor Sven Silburn said in addition to the wider problem one in four children had a substantiated child protection concerns.

"In public health terms you'd consider that to be of epidemic proportions," he said.
The Labor opposition will reject the Turnbull government's proposed changes to Australian citizenship unless key elements are scrapped, Fairfax Media understands.

On Monday night, Labor's shadow cabinet resolved to oppose the introduction of stricter English language testing and a four-year wait for permanent residents before they can become citizens, it is understood.

The position, to be taken to a meeting of Labor's caucus in Canberra on Tuesday morning, will placate MPs in the party's left faction who were particularly concerned about those two elements of the package.

Labor MP Anne Aly previously told Fairfax Media the proposed English test was "unfair and unreasonable" and should be opposed by Labor, while others including Linda Burney and Lisa Singh have also questioned its fairness.
A retiring Liberal senator is threatening to cross the floor over the Turnbull government's "Gonski 2.0" school funding model, saying the deal would dud Catholic schools.

Chris Back, a West Australian Liberal senator and nine-year veteran of that state's Catholic Education Commission, said he could not support the government's package in its current form, and threatened to cross the floor as his final parliamentary act.

"I'm not convinced," he told ABC radio. "Until I'm convinced that the proposals in place will not disadvantage Catholic schools, and independent schools for that matter, I've indicated to the minister: 'please don't make me vote against the government in my last week in the Senate'."
"The course of love never did run smooth," should be Network Ten's new tagline for their The Bachelor franchise.

Season five, starring Matty Johnson, has not even begun and the winner of Matty Johnson's heart has been photographed with him while filming the finale in Thailand by two well-known Sydney paparazzi, Jonathan Marshall, 32, and Liam Mendes, 22, aka the "baby-faced" shooter.

Ten seem to have won this battle for now after the network took Marshall and Mendes to the NSW Supreme Court and won an injunction against them publishing the 318 photographs or disclosing the identities of the home visits and the finale.

There was no order to costs, a pricey decision a week before the network went into voluntary administration.
We spend a lot of time telling girls to speak up and make their voices heard. It's a message embraced by a large slice of the music, TV and film industry. Corporations, from banks to soap companies, love the halo that comes from advertising campaigns featuring girls delivering messages about empowerment. And there are special programs designed to encourage girls to assert themselves.

But what happens when those girls grow up and act on this advice? If the past week is anything to go by, women's voices are unwelcome across large swathes of public life.

We spend a lot of time telling girls to speak up and make their voices heard. But what happens when they grow up and act on this advice?

First we had the spectacle of New Yorker contributor Jim Holt interrupt physics professor Veronika Hubeny when she explained her own research in string theory and quantum gravity. That's right: she was the expert, but a man felt the need to explain her ideas for her and the assembled audience.

So persistent was Holt in talking over Hubeny that an audience member intervened, shouting "Let her speak, please!" Clearly others felt the same way; the interjection was met with applause.
A $250,000 reward has been offered for information that helps the ongoing investigation of Brisbane man Wayne Youngkin's presumed murder more than three decades ago.

Mr Youngkin's remains were found in a septic tank at his former home at Brighton in November last year, 31 years after he was reported missing.

Police have released an image of presumed murder victim Wayne Youngkin and a friend as a $250,000 reward for information is announced. Credit:QPS Media

Police said the 29-year-old's skeleton was found with "significant trauma" and searched Deagon wetlands in April for possible evidence they believed may have been disposed of in the water.

It emerged earlier this year there was a six-year gap between when Mr Youngkin, who had lived with his late uncle and grandmother, was last seen publicly and him being reported missing.
There are still no suspects in the murder of Brisbane man Wayne Youngkin 30 years ago but Queensland Police are hoping a $250,000 reward will help them crack the case.

Mr Youngkin was last seen alive in 1986 and his body was found in a septic tank last year at the Brisbane home where he lived with his uncle and grandmother.

Wayne Youngkin was last seen alive in 1986. Credit:QPS

The reward was announced on Monday and Police Minister Mark Ryan says indemnity from prosecution could also be offered to the murderer's associates if they weren't involved in the crime.

Detective Inspector Tim Trezise says a number of persons of interest have been identified but police have no suspects.
The owners of a Brisbane cafe have been fined more than $180,000 after illegally forcing a foreign worker to hand back $18,000 of his wages.

Federal Court Judge Michael Jarrett fined Saandeep Chokhani $30,000 and imposed a further $150,000 penalty against the company he and his wife owned over the unlawful cash-back arrangement.

The worker was threatened with visa cancellation if he didn't pay back $18,000. Credit:Glenn Hunt

The court found Mr Chokhani, who then owned and operated a Coffee Club franchise at Nundah, had failed to pay the Indian national any wages for four months from July to November 2014 and for another four weeks in Feburary/March 2015.

He then transferred just over $19,300 to the worker, only to ask him to pay back $18,000 and in 2015 threatened to have the worker's 457 visa cancelled unless he complied.
A Queensland police prosecutor allegedly used a restricted database to share information with a long-term close friend.

Sergeant Martin Liam Longhurst was this month suspended from duty after he was charged by the Crime and Corruption Commission with hacking and misconduct offences.

A Queensland police prosecutor appeared in court. Credit:Glenn Hunt

Longhurst, 31, appeared briefly in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday before his case was adjourned to July 10.

Court documents show Longhurst is alleged to have accessed the state police database QPRIME in December 2015 to run checks for a long-term close friend relating to a vehicle.
Photos of the missing prisoners, including Shaun Davidson on the right. Credit:Amilia Rosa "We assumed it was the top of the septic tank because it was located next to the clinic toilet," he said. "It's been there for a while. We didn't suspect anything, because if they dug up a new tunnel, where would they hide the dirt from the digging? There was none." The men - who were all from Block B - were in lockdown at the time of the daring escape. Authorities comb the area where the escape is believed to have taken place. Credit:Amilia Rosa It is believed they escaped through a hole in the ceiling of their block and then squeezed through the waste tunnel, which was 13 metres long and just half a metre wide.

Fairfax Media overheard an investigating police officer mutter: "The distance was 13 metres? Who could hold their breath that long?" The exterior wall of Kerobokan prison, which houses more than 1300 inmates. Credit:Amilia Rosa The tunnel was drained on Monday morning "for humanitarian reasons" in case the prisoners were still stuck inside. Mr Tonny said prison authorities believed the escape had been planned for some time. The tunnel through which the Kerobokan inmates escaped.

"Shaun started growing a beard and moustache, we suspect to change his appearance," he said. Two buckets, some towels and sandals were found near the tunnel entrance. Shaun Davidson waiting to be transferred to Kerobokan jail in Bali after being charged with possessing another person's identity and overstaying his visa in April last year. Credit:Amilia Rosa Mr Tonny said there were more than 1300 prisoners in the notoriously overcrowded jail. He said Tower Two, which was above the tunnel exit, had been empty at the time of the escape because of a shortage of guards.

Australian man Shaun Davidson is still on the run. Credit:The Age "We only have 10 guards each shift," he said. Of the 10, one was posted to each corner tower, four were rotated on the ground and there was one commander and an assistant. "We have requested 200 extra officers but so far it has not been approved," he said. A source at Kerobokan jail told Fairfax Media the foreigners had last been seen at sahur - the term for the predawn meal before fasting begins during Ramadan. "They are still investigating whether they escaped through the waste ground tunnel behind the clinic. It is filled with water," the source said.

The escapees, whose families had all been notified, also included a Bulgarian, an Indian and a Malaysian. Bulgarian Dimitar Nikolov Iliev was jailed for seven years for money laundering, Indian Sayed Mohammad Said was jailed for 14 years on drug charges and Malaysian Tee Kok King was jailed for seven years on drug charges. The prison governor, Mr Tonny, said the four prisoners had been just like any other. "Their behaviour was normal. (Davidson) teaches boxing. The Indian guy was quite religious but he didn't mingle a lot." Sayed Mohammad Said was last seen by another prisoner during morning prayers and again at 6.30am this morning. Davidson was jailed for a year last September after he was found guilty of misusing a travel document belonging to someone else.

He had been due to face Perth Magistrates Court on January 28, 2015, charged with possessing methamphetamine and cannabis and two other offences. When he did not attend, an arrest warrant was issued. But instead of going to court, Davidson skipped the country, arriving in Indonesia in 2015 on a one-month tourist visa Davidson said he lost his passport. He said he had contacted the Australian passport office and reported his own missing, but then began using a passport under the name of Michael John Bayman, which Davidson said he had found in a hotel room. Bali immigration authorities told Fairfax Media the passport had been reported missing by its real owner in 2013.

In an interview with Fairfax Media between the bars of a holding cell at Denpasar District Court last September, Davidson said the conditions in Kerobokan were bearable if one had money and support from the outside. He said he had been expecting a "living hell" when he was incarcerated in April last year after being named a suspect. Davidson told Fairfax Media at the time that he would continue to teach boxing inside Kerobokan jail. "I have about 15 to 20 people I train in boxing, so that's pretty good. I guess it gives the locals something to do. It gives them something to look forward to. It's pretty hard for some of the locals - if you don't have money to get food you don't eat." Davidson had spent the year before he was apprehended boxing and partying in Bali.

But he came to the attention of authorities in March last year when he was staying at Rabasta Hotel in Kuta. Ngurah Rai airport immigration officer Mohamad Soleh told Fairfax Media in April last year that a report was made of a foreigner staying in Kuta who was suspected of overstaying his visa. When immigration authorities investigated, they found he had not only overstayed but was using a fake identity. The vice-director of Special Criminal Investigation, Ruddi Setiawan, said on Monday police were cooperating with immigration and justice officers to search for the escapees. "We are investigating witnesses," he said.
Speaking from her home in Bethnal Green, east London, where she lives with her mother Vivien, a retired council worker, and her older brother Damian, Cachia said she could see the block was "completely engulfed in flames" as her crew approached it. Early indications are that defective composite cladding on the 24-storey building was a major factor in the fire. Credit:Getty Images "Along the way I've got my crew around me and they know I'm five days into the job," she said. "They explained that they've never seen anything like this, and we should stick together. [They said] make sure that you just keep your wits around you, be slow and steady, take your time, you know what you've got to do, don't get carried away, don't try to run in and do crazy things." A fire crew near the 24-storey residential Grenfell Tower block. Some 200 firefighters and 40 engines were sent to the scene. Credit:Getty Images

Cachia described the chaotic scene they were greeted with at the 24-storey Grenfell Tower. "There were lots of people screaming in the streets that their family are inside, that they can't find them, that people are missing, they want help," she said. Firefighters battle the Grenfell Tower blaze from the ground. Credit:Getty Images "You try and block out as much of your emotion as you can so you can do the best job that you can. It was absolute chaos. I think at this point the police were still trying to get the streets under control". Cachia's crew were told that the stairwell was too narrow for more firefighters to come in wearing the full breathing apparatus suits, so they were given the option of helping survivors outside the building, or going inside with just eye gear to help residents flee to safety.

"My partner Paul and I just looked at each other and said 'shall we just get in there?'," she recalled. "At this point there are loads of people coming out so you've got hope and you're excited and you're like, yes we are saving people. And then slowly as time goes on the numbers stop coming, it gets quieter and quieter." Cachia described how at first, she was helping residents flee down the stairs every few minutes or every 30 seconds - and then there was a period where no one came down at all. "It would have been about 45 minutes, and that seemed like forever," she said. But after fearing that all the remaining residents had perished in the flames, suddenly a family of four appeared on the stairwell. "It had been so long since we had heard from anybody, it was unbelievable that this family just came out," she said. "You could tell they had been up there fighting for their life. I had never been happier to see a bunch of four people walking out with their heads covered in towels, it was the best feeling. I just thought thank the lord, that's one more flat that we can just cross off." Cachia, who had just completed her 11-week training course, said she was in the Grenfell Tower for an "awfully long time".

"We started helping people on the third floor, but we ended up on the tenth floor," she said. "You want to get to them, so you end up going higher and higher. "People are saying 'I know my brother, my sister, my aunt are still in there'. You are so blinded by how serious it is, that you just get on with it and do the best you can. I've never seen so many people work so hard in all my life." Cachia told of another woman who, while she was still inside the smoke-filled building, stopped to raise the alarm about her blind neighbour who was alone and trapped in his flat. "That woman was so courageous, she had been choking and crying and screaming but stopped and shook me to tell me," she said. "She just really cared for him - that unity of the neighbours in that block, you could tell they were such a close community." Cachia said she sent out a priority message about the blind man, and later heard that he had been saved.
Almost 70% of properties sold in first week of November
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This ship could finally sail.

The head honcho of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey supports a long-discussed plan to sell waterfront shipping port the Red Hook Container Terminal to make money for the agency, he told attendees of a real estate conference on Wednesday.

A core recommendation  was to divest real estate assets which are not producing a flow of income to support investments in transportation infrastructure, John Degnan said at a conference hosted by Crains, the website reported. Red Hook is a primary example of that. I know there are political difficulties in the state and city of New York to doing it, but the Port Authority would be enormously benefitted.

The site, which runs along the water from the foot of Carroll Street to Brooklyn Bridge Parks Pier 6 at Atlantic Avenue, is currently leased by Red Hook Container Terminal, LLC. But that agreement expires in 2018, giving the Port Authority  which reps contend is a money-losing operation  an opportunity to sell off the huge chunk of land.

The parcel  roughly the same size as Brooklyn Bridge Park  is already public land, and in turn is more likely to be sold for public use, according to a real estate expert who said it likely would be converted into a combination of parkland and housing, similar to the makeup of its next door neighbor, which is funded by private development.

Whether its parkland thats subsidized by housing or affordable housing thats subsidized by market rate housing, its really an interesting piece of property, said Matthew Rosenzweig, a broker for Marcus and Millichap. It would be the kind of large scale development that really hasnt occurred in that area.

Money from such a sale would then be used for transit needs, according to the Port Authority boss.

But opponents of the plan say the transit agency must retain the land to keep the neighborhoods working waterfront alive, provide jobs, and limit air pollution by bringing in cargo on ships, not trucks.

We believe that the port is a key element in ensuring that our port district overall retains its position of dominance on the eastern seaboard of the United States, said Rep. Jerrold Nadler (DBay Ridge). As such, Red Hook Container Terminal must remain open and operational.

The local lawmaker also fought the transit agency when its executive director recommended getting rid of the terminal in 2011 on the basis that shipping containers were no longer viable in Red Hook.

Another plan, proposed by a Los Angeles-based engineering firm last year, that called for transforming the site into a massive high-rise development with an extended 1 subway line was slammed by locals, who called it a tone-deaf dismissal of the work that goes on along the waterfront.

AECOMs vision is pre-Sandy, blind to the surge in waterborne freight addressed by Red Hook Container Terminal, and needlessly destructive of Red Hooks extensive maritime industry that exists in addition to the container terminal, said Carolina Salguero, who runs waterfront education group PortSide New York.

The city and state have made efforts to increase shipping in Red Hook, most recently by launching a barge service in 2016 to facilitate transporting freight to Brooklyn from New Jersey.

Degnans Wednesday statements were solely a recommendation, and the Port Authority plans to release a report next year on ways to maximize revenue, which could include selling the terminal, according to a spokesman.
Springfield quarry plan still unresolved as residents wait, worry

Conditional Use Hearing on a proposed quarry along Rt. 309 in Springfield may be nearing an end after two years. Here's what residents have to say.
State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) presented a check to Yardley Borough Police Chief Joseph Kelly for $68,600 for the purchase of a new police vehicle and motorcycle during a visit to the station. Our police put themselves on the line every day to keep our community safe, said Sen. Santarsiero. Dating back to when I was a Lower Makefield Township Supervisor more than...
Campus News

Global Market could transform North Campus crossroad

A conceptual drawing of the proposed Global Market. The market would feature at least five food stations offering authentic, international cuisine.

By CHARLES ANZALONE

The Global Market has the potential to become a gateway to the campus that conveys UBs identity as a premiere international university. 

Take two of UBs most reliable assets: its growing international character and its students unabashed love of food. Then add Campus Dining & Shops (CDS) ability to get things done.

The result is a solid plan to build a Global Market that would bring at least five authentic, interactive, international restaurants to one of the busiest crossroads on the North Campus. And if CDS has its way, the new market would be one of the most striking areas on the university landscape.

The Global Market is the next phase in the Heart of the Campus (HOTC) project, the UB 2020 initiative to enhance the student learning experience by creating a learning landscape in the center of the academic spine. UB administrators say each project in HOTC is about an improved service level and academic experience for students.

Jeff Brady, CDS executive director, says he expects the Global Market to be up and running sometime in 2020. And when it is, it has the potential to transform the appearance and atmosphere of Founders Plaza, a major junction of academic and administrative life on the North Campus.

If you have ever seen the traffic there, its incredible, especially with all the students and faculty and staff getting off the buses, Brady says of the preferred location for the Global Market.

The exact design and details are still to come. CDS will send out a Request for Qualifications to architects this summer as a preliminary step to obtaining specific design proposals from qualified companies. This fall, CDS will circulate a survey asking the UB community to rank types of cuisine according to personal preference. Brady says results of the survey will guide CDS regarding the kinds of restaurants to be featured.

CDS also has created a steering committee of faculty and staff members to review and recommend designs later this summer. Committee chair Graham Hammill, vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School, says one of the most interesting challenges for the committee will be to consider how the design can best convey UBs mission and vision.

For example, there is a lot of excellent faculty research on food and issues such as global poverty, creating healthy communities and building sustainable food systems, Hammill says. Ideally, the new dining facility would integrate impactful research being done at UB into the overall design.

And the intangibles of this addition to the North Campus are substantial, according to Hammill.

The committee hopes that the new Global Market will be more than an exciting dining facility, he says. Situated at one of the major crossroads on North Campus, the Global Market has the potential to become a gateway to the campus that conveys UBs identity as a premiere international university.

If CDS past performance is any indication, the UB community will have a dramatic, landscape-changing facility that not only provides quality international food to a growing international population, but a year-round infusion of energy to a section of campus trying to lose its overly institutional feel.

Were hoping it is going to be a glass atrium, says Brady, who says UB will self-fund all but a small part of the project, another indication it is on a reliable and predictable schedule.

I have always felt we did a disservice to the students on campus, he says. So much of what we serve is American food, if you will. Weve changed a little bit. But you look at the ethnicity of the campus, and its so international and diverse.

You look at the students from India, for example. They come on campus a week earlier than anyone else for orientation. The first day they are here, they get a break at noon. We send them over to the Student Union to eat pizza. And they are in shock. Where is my homeland food?

Brady says his organization has always wanted to do something about that, especially with UBs growing global community.

Thats one of the big reasons for this, he says. But we want to make sure what we do is authentic. We dont want to Americanize any of it. Weve seen other universities that have done that, and it hasnt been successful.

Again, exact details  both in design and specific restaurants (Brady calls them platforms)  are to be determined, depending on the survey results, and the architectural and design plans still to be submitted. But Brady and CDS Executive Chef Neal Plazio have a few things in mind:

The new Global Market would be about 23,000 square feet, about double the size of the restaurant, dining room and kitchen area of Berts, the existing CDS restaurant in Talbert Hall. It would seat 375 people. For an easy comparison, Brady says the Global Market will be bigger than Crossroads Culinary Center, or C3, the state-of-the-art dining facility in the Ellicott Complex that opened in 2012. The market would replace Berts and the New York Deli, also in Talbert Hall, and feature a food-station model similar to C3.

Although final restaurant selection is under consideration, Brady said chances are good the offerings will include Indian, Korean and some kind of American cuisine. And the Global Market would have the ability to rotate food stations to change whats available to students.

CDS officials have high hopes for using the Global Market to change the look and of atmosphere of its location.

I think its going to change the feeling of Founders Plaza, Plazio says. Its going to liven it up. Last summer, I was visiting another campus. They have an area there kind of similar. They call it being post-Soviet. There is more variety in the architecture here at UB, but its something like that because right now, its all academic, so this Global Market with people eating will liven up the whole area.

The Global Market will not be a food court, Brady and Plazio stress. Thats old thinking, a food court, Brady says. Its old architecture.

A food court too often has little interaction between the people in the restaurants and the customers, according to Plazio.
Encon Insulation has relocated its Birmingham branch to larger premises doubling the size of its previous site as part of the companys growth plan.

The 36,460sq ft warehouse offers customers access to a selection of thermal and acoustic insulation, fire protection, plasterboard and roofing materials.

Branch Manager Andy Edge said: Were so excited to open the doors at our brand new location. We know that the West Midlands is enjoying record levels of construction and this, coupled with the increase in our customer base and successful ongoing relationships, meant we had outgrown our old site.

Anticipating the needs of its customers, Encons new location features a refurbished modern unit and purpose built trade counter with the addition of a working yard.
Sodra Wood, formerly Crown Timber, is relocating its UK and Irish operations to a new flagship HQ in the Office Park in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. The move will see more than 40 staff working in an integrated environment.

Simon Henry, Managing Director of Sodra Wood, said: The new 500m2 all-on-one-floor layout and networked IT infrastructure will streamline process management, improve communications and support plans for further growth. At the same time, we are taking the opportunity of significantly improving the facilities for staff welfare and creating a much more modern workplace.

Jorgen Lindquist is President of the Sodra Wood business, and visited Cirencester for the opening of the new offices. He said: The UK is our biggest market and it is fantastic to see the complete supply chain flourish from planting to finished timber, delivered to customers across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
NJ Weedman got a license to sell NJ legal weed. He almost said no.
Be Like the Fox: Machiavellis Lifelong Quest for Freedom

By Erica Benner

360 pp. W. W. Norton & Company. $27.95

It is January 1506. Niccolo is out in the Tuscan countryside recruiting for a Florentine militia. Like other Italian cities caught in the Franco-Spanish struggle for Italy, Florence is an underdefended pawn. Time presses and Machiavellis efforts are not going well. A reluctant peasant worries that if he gives his name for soldiering, the city will dun him for taxes. Others refuse to parade with recruits from the village next door. As old enemies, they explain, the neighbours are more of a nuisance than any remote foreign army could be. When Machiavellis superiors in the city government complain of his slow progress, he answers that they should try it themselves.

Vivid episodes like that dot Erica Benners erudite and engaging life of (1469-1527), a leading bad boy of political ideas. Hidden by legend and counterlegend, he is hard to get into view. Like the moralist Nietzsche, who also spun off disconcerting and misquotable epigrams, is at once overfamiliar and obscure.

Except to specialists, he is known chiefly for a single short book, The Prince, which purported to advise new, that is nonhereditary, rulers how to stay in power. Printed five years after his death, though known before in manuscript, it divided opinion across Europe, especially among the vast majority who knew it only by repute. The Prince implied that stable government depended more on force and manipulation than on good conduct and divinely sanctioned law. It asked with unseemly zeal how far in politics the writ of morality ran.

The little book ensured Machiavelli an afterlife in which author and reputation blurred into a single object of obloquy or celebration, depending on where you stood. Detractors took him for a preacher of villainy and a menace to godly order, defenders for a civic-minded patriot and proto-democrat, especially if The Prince was read, as defenders thought it should be read, together with his other political writings. Modern scholarship has added layers of interpretive subtlety but never quite escaped the pull of that polar contrast: Machiavelli, good guy or bad?

Among Machiavelli specialists, Benner is squarely in the good-guy camp. She takes him, as in previous like Machiavellis Ethics, for an enemy of autocratic rule who in The Prince hid his lifelong belief in the peoples will and rule by law. Happily for nonspecialist readers, Be Like the Fox presumes rather than argues scholastically for that approach to Machiavelli, which is at least as old as Rousseau. Benners book is a life-and-times biography, not an interpretive work. It recounts the up-and-down career of a tricky personality in stormy times.

Machiavellis was a fascinating if tangled story. He was a city functionary, foreign envoy, political exile, a student of military tactics and author of much apart from The Prince. In shrewd, at times mocking, dispatches, which served him later as raw material, he described the popes, kings, emperors and military captains he met. Besides The Discourses, his study of republican or non-princely government, he wrote a history of Florence, a treatise on warfare and a constitutional proposal for the city. He composed poems, satires and fine comic plays, notably The Mandrake, which Voltaire praised for its anticlericalism and which still delights lovers of bawdy farce.

He left several hundred letters, which Benner makes good use of in sketching a mercurial character. Those to friends are by turns crude, sublime, mocking, sincere, self-pitying and proud. Family letters  he had six children, a wife and mistresses  suggest an attentive father and affectionate if difficult husband. Without dwelling on the point, Benner makes plain the coarseness and brutality of the time, especially toward women and the weak.

Machiavellis father, Bernardo, was a lawyer with debts that barred him from office and that may have passed down to the son. The family lived off rents from small lands outside Florence. At age 7, young Machiavelli began to learn Latin, although his chief works were in Italian. For Greek classics, he relied on translations. He was schooled, that is, not as a humanist man of letters but as a future official.

His fathers diary, the main source for Machiavellis youth, stops when the boy is 18. For 10 years, nothing is known of what he did or thought. Still, it is not foolish to think that the political upheavals and foreign wars that now swept over Florence confirmed his deep-rooted conviction that fortune was mutable and that circumstances always shifted.

Florentine government was a volatile mixture. The city was a republic under elected office-holders, albeit with a limited franchise. In practice, the Medici clan controlled city offices with munificence (bribes), for which it raided the family bank and which helped it survive assaults from rival oligarchs and recurrent popular unrest. By the 1490s, the bank was dead in the water, civic support had crumbled and the Medici were reliant on foreign whim. They were tossed out in the turmoil of a French invasion (1494) but later reinstalled amid further warfare (1512).

In the intervening 18 years, Florence was a precarious republic. Machiavelli now made his entry into public life, but only after the fall and execution of Savonarola, a puritanical friar who dominated the republics first years. In 1498, Machiavelli won appointment as supervisor of Florences diplomatic office and secretary to its military committee. Both were responsible posts, although it irked him as a commoner to be denied ambassadorial rank. He was sensitive as well about Florences lowly status. In France, to his chagrin, patronising officials called the city Mr Nothing.

That sense of powerlessness confirmed a second conviction: the need for self-reliance, particularly in warfare. Despite patrician opposition to arming the people, in 1505 he persuaded Florences military committee to form a militia. On his recruitment trip, Machiavelli somehow found enough peasants to parade 400 militiamen through Florences main square.

His militia was a valiant dream. In 1512, Spanish mercenaries made matchwood of Tuscan defences, the republic fell and the Medici returned. Suspected as an anti-Medicean, Machiavelli was in due course arrested, tried under torture and imprisoned. He was soon freed in an amnesty when a Medici became Pope, but his government career was over. He lived in the country, writing, ruminating and begging friends with connections to ask the Medici on his behalf for a post. Although deaf to pleas from an ex-republican, they encouraged his writing, asked him for constitutional ideas and in time threw him the sop of a few minor missions.

Machiavelli never abandoned hope of returning to serve the city he loved. When in 1527 fortune turned again and the Medici fell, he put in for a government post but lost to an old Savonarola man. He died soon after, having received, but not it seems called for, a priest.

Be Like the Fox is not detached, archival history but a remarkable work of imaginative engagement backed by scholarly learning. Benner brings Machiavelli alive by weaving his words and those of his contemporaries into the narrative as a playwright might. (His words appear in italics, which takes getting used to.) She does not disguise her admiration for Machiavelli and his ideas as she understands them. Nor does she hide personal flaws and intellectual inconsistencies that point to opposite conclusions, although a less committed writer might have brought them out with more force.

The jacket copy misleadingly presents Benner as salvaging Machiavellis thoughts and opinions from demonization, as if they needed rescue. If anyone is keeping count, his historical defenders have probably outnumbered the calumniators. There are ample reasons besides age-old reputational disputes to be intrigued by this elusive figure with his enigmatic smile. Among them are the fortunes and misfortunes of a tumultuous life, which Benner tells with verve. Despite its odd typography, Be Like the Fox can be read with pleasure by anyone interested in the craft of politics and the life of ideas.

2017 The New York Times News Service
Company Ltd (DPCL), a fully owned subsidiary of Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), is gearing up to start container business operations in the next two to three months.


From shrinking the in-flight magazine size to giving up allowances, employees of Air India are coming out with innovative suggestions to help their company to fight the debt burden. This comes as the government is considering privatising the state-owned air carrier.
Leading online lodging service is buying a California-based background-check start-up founded by three Indian-origin entrepreneurs in 2014 as it seeks to protect its users and hosts from undesirable and fraudulent people.

A report in Fortune magazine said is buying Trooly, a startup that specialises in technology that helps conduct background checks.

Trooly was co-founded by Savi Baveja, Anish Das Sarma and Nilesh Dalvi. According to profiles of the founders on the Trooly website, Baveja, who is also the company's CEO, had previously served as senior partner at the strategy consulting firm Bain & Company, and a member of the Bain Board of Directors.

Sarma, the company's Chief Technology Officer, is a gold medalist from IIT and has worked at Google Research and Yahoo Research. Dalvi, Trooly's Chief Science Officer, is an IIT alumnus and has worked at Facebook and Yahoo Research.

Trooly said on its website that it uses public and permissible digital footprints to understand and predict the trustworthiness of individuals and businesses. It uses minimal and non-intrusive identity information as input and returns "trust" ratings which incorporate screening for undesirable past behaviours.

The Fortune report said an spokesperson confirmed the acquisition but did not disclose the price or the number of workers involved.

"We look forward to welcoming the Trooly team to Airbnb in the coming weeks," the Airbnb spokesperson said in the Fortune said. "We'll continue working together to better facilitate trust between strangers on, off and across the platform - supporting Airbnb's overall strategy to create a world where anyone can belong anywhere".

Trooly, founded in 2014, raised USD 10 million in funding in 2016, according to venture capital tracking site Crunchbase.

Fortune said Trooly's technology is supposed to be an alternative to conventional background checks and credit score services that businesses typically use to screen employees before hiring.

Airbnb has reportedly been a Trooly customer since 2015.

Fact box

* Founded in 2014

* Co-founded by Savi Baveja, Anish Das Sarma and Nilesh Dalvi

* Trooly uses public and permissible digital footprints to predict the trustworthiness of individuals and businesses

* Trooly raised $10 million in funding in 2016, according to venture capital tracking site Crunchbase
German luxury carmaker is investing another Rs 130 crore in India to enhance operations, taking its total investment in the country to Rs 1,250 crore.

The company will launch new version of its locally manufactured 5 Series later this month and 6 Series Gran Turismo (GT) model next year to strengthen its product portfolio in India.

"Since 2007, we have been consistently investing in India. This year, we are going to increase our investment further to up to Rs 1,250 crore on a cumulative basis," India President Vikram Pawah told PTI.

has invested Rs 1,120 crore in the Indian operations so far.

The new investment will go into BMW group operations, including Motarrad (two-wheeler business) as well as the financial services arm, he added.

With the fresh investments, the total investments on BMW group operations in India will go up to Rs 520 crore and on BMW Financial Services to Rs 730 crore.

The company is looking to expand its dealer network in the country. It currently has 18 partners and is present in 30 cities.

"Besides, we have 63 touch points. Out of these, we have 41 sales outlets. So we want to take these 41 outlets to 50 by 2018," Pawah said.

In other emerging towns, in addition to 30 major cities, the company utilises its 'Mobile Studios' to expand the market further.

This year, the weather proof BMW mobile studio will cover 50 towns, Pawah said.

On new product launches, he said: "As part of our power to lead strategy, product offensive starts. In next two weeks, we will be launching the new 5 Series."



The model has played a big role in the success of BMW in India. Since 2007, the company has sold around 66,000 vehicles in India with 5 Series having contributed close to 30 per cent of the total sales.

"Next year, we will be introducing another model in between 5 and 7 Series, called the 6 GT and that would again define a new segment and create new market for us," Pawah said.

On local manufacturing, Pawah said: "We are locally producing eight of our total 16 models that are available. So as we introduce new models, also the new 5 Series, will be produced in the Chennai plant."



The 6 GT would also be manufactured locally, he added.

"So all our main volume drivers as we call them will also be produced locally. Niche models will continue to come in CBU form. As the volumes increase we will continue to evaluate as what can manufactured locally," Pawah said.

The company's Chennai plant has an installed capacity of 14,000 units on a single shift basis. It started operations in March 2007 and currently produces BMW's 1 Series, 3 Series, 3 Series Gran Turismo, 5 Series, 7 Series along with SUVs X1, X3 and X5.

When asked about competition with its German rivals Mercedes and Audi to be the number one player in the luxury car market in India, he said BMW's focus is to remain the fastest growing premium car brand in India.

In the January-May period this year, BMW has sold 3,533 units in India at a growth of eight per cent.

Pawah further said the company would be focusing on its power to lead strategy to grow the entire premium car market.

"The idea is to grow the segment. Currently in India, premium car segment remains less than two per cent of the total passenger vehicle market (3 million last fiscal) as compared to five to 10 per cent in various countries," Pawah said.

The efforts should be to at least make it five per cent and and eventually 10 per cent of the PV market, he added.

The premium vehicle segment is estimated to be around 35,000 units per annum currently.

Difficult to popularise green cars without govt support: BMW



Disappointed over plug-in hybrids being ignored for incentives in the upcoming GST, German luxury car maker BMW says it will be difficult to popularise green vehicles in India in the absence of government support.

Although the company welcomed the government's idea of going for all-electric vehicles by 2030, BMW said lack of infrastructure and consumer's concerns over getting stranded with pure electric vehicles when charge runs out will be major challenges to overcome.

Under the GST rates, tax incidence on hybrid vehicles will go up to 43 per cent from the current level of effective tax rate of 30.3 per cent.

"When the GST rates were announced, we were disappointed that the plug-in hybrids have been totally ignored," BMW India President Vikram Pawah told PTI.



In a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, apart from a conventional petrol or diesel engine, there is a large battery that is recharged from an outlet by plugging in thus enabling it to drive extended distances using just electricity.

On the other hand, in normal hybrid vehicle, battery is charged from energy generated from running conventional engine and the range offered on electric drive mode is shorter.

"We would have liked plug-in hybrids to be included as part of the electric vehicles," he added.

Pawah argued that lowering tax incidence on plug-in hybrids can lead to much faster adoption of electric mobility in the country as it would help in addressing range anxiety concerns that customers have.

"If we want to achieve results earlier, then the approach should be plug-in hybrids leading to pure electrical vehicles. That will make transition much easier but with current policies it does not allow us to do that," he added.

He asked the government to look "at plug-in hybrid as equal to electric vehicles for the transition phase" to accelerate movement towards green mobility.

BMW already sells both pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles across the world.

While welcoming the government's plan to move towards completely electric mobility by 2030, Pawah, however, cited two major challenges towards achieving the goal.

"One, infrastructure needs to be set up to go purely electric and that will take time. It cannot happen immediately," he said.

The second challenge is the concern among consumers of getting stranded in the middle of the road when the battery charge runs out, he added.

"So the transition to electric mobility from a customer viewpoint would be a bigger hurdle," Pawah said.

The government is working on a scheme to provide electric cars on zero down payment for which people can pay out of their savings on expensive fossil fuels, for becoming 100 per cent electric vehicle nation by 2030.

When asked about the impact of higher tax on hybrids on the company's plans for introduction of green vehicles, Pawah said: "Obviously we will have to wait till infrastructure is set up before we bring in the electric vehicles."



Auto industry has already said that the increased tax incidence on hybrids is against the government's long-term goal of promoting green vehicles in the country.
Boeing is set to receive orders and commitments worth $30 billion for the stretched Max 10 upgrade of the 737 workhorse, as its first new jet in almost four years counters Airbus SEs headstart at the largest end of the single-aisle aircraft market.


India truly dominated the stage at the Cannes Lions Health awards this year. Two of the top three healthcare agencies of the year were from India, the Grand Prix for Good was from India supported by four gold, six silver and three bronze Lions. While India has been winning big at the Glass Lions, to do so across categories and agencies at the Lions Health awards was heart-warming. And with a jury member from India  Amit Akali  the story was complete for the country.


Indian pharmaceutical and their subsidiaries in the United States are facing tremendous pressure as they tackle legalities after being accused of anti-trust activities. Among the allegations are rigging prices of drugs and colluding to delay entry of drugs in the market.


Essar Steel's loan-restructuring proposal was pending with the Indian banks for the last 18 months and despite over 26 meetings at the joint lenders forum (JLF), no decision was taken on the proposal, leading to Essar Steel's entry into the list of 12 accounts recommended by the Reserve Bank of India for further action under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).


Even though a few mobile operators in India have sought fixing of a floor price for voice and data services, it is not a norm in most developed markets and only a few countries like Morocco have a floor price on bundled services.
The Sahara group on Monday told the Supreme Court that it had sold its interests in Londons Grosvenor House Hotel to GH Equity UK. Sahara lawyer Kapil Sibal told the bench of Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi that the sale had been completed, and sought permission to transfer funds from the deal to the Sebi-Sahara refund account. Sebi is Securities and Exchange Board of India.
will buy 20 Boeing 737 MAX 10 while converting 20 of their existing 737 MAX 8 order to 10, as it looks to carry more passengers between Indian metros where airports remain congested.


Days after recommending a CBI probe into the alleged multi-crore scam in Shia and Sunni waqf boards, the Uttar Pradesh government might recommend a similar investigation into various anomalies in the Gomti River Front Development - a dream project of former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

"Just a couple of days back, the (Gomti River Front) probe report was submitted to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. All necessary steps will be taken and appropriate action initiated for a CBI probe," minister of state for urban development Girish Kumar Yadav told PTI today.

"If there is a need to lodge an FIR, the government will not hesitate in doing so. None of the guilty persons will be spared and stringent action will be taken against those found guilty," Yadav said.

Officials said that a case may be registered on the basis of recommendations of a four-member committee headed by UP urban development minister Suresh Khanna.

The riverfront has witnessed a political showdown between the erstwhile Samajwadi Party government in the state and the Adityanath government at present.

It had become a major issue during the recent Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

On April 1, the chief minister had ordered an inquiry by a retired High Court judge in the Gomti River Front Project.

He had instructed chief secretary Rahul Bhatnagar to constitute the committee and also directed for submission of the report within 45 days.

The chief minister had also directed the urban development minister and the irrigation minister Dharmpal Singh to monitor the development work at Gomti River Front.

The decision was arrived at after a meeting with the chief minister to review the performance of the urban development department.

Officials told the chief minister that of the total allocation of Rs 1,513 crore, 95 per cent of the budget, which comes to around Rs 1,435 crore had already been spent, yet less than 60 per cent of the work has been completed.

Adityanath directed the officials to ensure that no effluent should flow in Gomti river and ordered expeditious diversion of drains releasing effluents and polluted water in the Gomti.

He said that until the time the river water becomes pollution-free, its beautification would hold no meaning.

Adityanath also expressed his unhappiness that the river water was so polluted that it was very difficult to even stand at the river front.

He said in such a scenario, a fountain on Gomti river was useless.

Gomti river, meandering through the 940-kilometre stretch of rich alluvial plains of Uttar Pradesh, is polluted by industrial effluents and domestic discharge.

The river becomes more of a flowing dumping yard for the 15 smaller and bigger towns, including Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Lucknow, Sultanpur and Jaunpur, in its catchment area.

The major sources of pollution in the Gomti are industrial waste from sugar factories and distilleries and sewage from habitations.

Adityanath had last week recommended a CBI probe into the alleged scam in Shia and Sunni waqf boards running into crores of rupees as revealed in a probe by the Waqf Council of India.

The chief minister also gave orders to dissolve both Shia and Sunni waqf boards.
five-month-old aborted foetus was found alive after doctors at the Safdarjung Hospital here declared it dead and handed it over to the family members in a polythene bag.

The incident came to the light on Sunday morning when a 28-year-old woman, in her fifth month of pregnancy, underwent an emergency operation after she was brought to the hospital bleeding heavily.

According to family members, who were unwilling to be named, the surgery was performed around 5.45 a.m. and half an hour later the medical staff told them that the was born dead.

"Around 6.15 a.m., we were told that the was born dead and accordingly they wrapped up the in a piece of cloth and polythene and handed it over to us," said a family member.

She said that while the family members were taking the baby to the cremation ground, they detected movement of the baby.

On unwrapping the packet, family members discovered that the baby was alive and moving his fingers and legs.

Thereafter, immediately the family members rushed back to the Safdarjung Hospital's Emergency Department and consulted the doctors. The baby has been admitted and is being treated.

The family members have accused the doctors of medical negligence. The medical authorities have said they will try to find out why this happened.

Pratima Mittal, head of Safdarjung Hospital's Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department, said there is a medical norm which prevents doctors from reviving a pre-mature baby with a weight below 500 gms, if found lifeless initially.

"I will call it a second trimester abortion as the woman was already five months pregnant and there is international rule stating that there should be no attempt to revive a premature baby found dead and having a weight below 500 gms. The doctors followed the norm and did not attempt to revive it," Mittal told IANS.

As per doctors, during the second trimester of pregnancy, the fingers and toes of the baby are well defined and they can even suck their thumbs, yawn, stretch, and make faces as the nervous system is starting to function at this point in pregnancy.

Mittal also said that an inquiry will be initiated to ascertain the reason behind the incident.
A minor girl is battling for her life here after she was gang-raped and thrown out of a running train three days ago, the police said on Monday.

The Class 10 girl is a resident of a village in Lakhisarai district. She was admitted to the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) in a critical condition on Sunday.

"The victim is still critical but we are hopeful that her condition will improve. She is traumatised and seriously injured as she was thrown out from a running train," a hospital official said.

A PMCH doctor treating her told IANS, "There is a slow sign of improvement after three units of blood were administered to her since Sunday".

"Her legs and waist were badly fractured and she has suffered heavy loss of blood.

We have been trying the best to provide proper treatment," the doctor said.

The doctor said the girl's private parts "needed stitches due to deep wounds".

Sunil Jha, a police officer, the first to talk to the victim, said she told him that "when she had gone to answer the call of nature on early Friday morning in the fields, two men forcibly took her to a nearby field and raped her, followed by four others".

When she became unconscious, they took her to the railway station, boarded a train and raped her again before throwing her out from the running train near Kiul railway station.

The victim was found unconscious near Kiul railway station by some locals. They informed the police and took her to a hospital, where she was provided treatment. However, the doctors referred her to PMCH after her condition deteriorated.

One of the six sexual attackers of the girl has been arrested and five others are on the run, the police said. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has asked top police officials to probe the case and arrest the accused persons as soon as possible.
The Central Board of Secondary (CBSE) under the scanner of the Supreme Court is expected to announce the results of National Eligibility cum Entrance Examination (NEET) on June 19, 2017. The NEET is an entrance examination for any graduate medical course such as MBBS, Bachelor of Dental Surgery or postgraduate course i.e. Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Surgery in government or private medical colleges in India. Sources and experts say the CBSE that promptly had released the OMR Sheet and Answer Keys for NEET 2017 seems to have finished the necessary paper works before announcing the results. The Board if ready will declare the results on its official website cbseneet.nic.in.


As one enters Kurseong on the way to Darjeeling, one is greeted with slogans of: Hoshiyar Mamata Banerjee! We want Gorkhaland! We want justice!

The demand for a separate state of Gorkhaland has reared its head again after 35 years, with protests by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) turning violent on Saturday. At the Singmari area, GJM activists allegedly threw petrol bombs and stones at riot police, who in retaliation, fired teargas shells and resorted to a baton charge.
Darjeeling: GJM supporters burn an effigy of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Kakjhora during their indefinite bandh in Darjeeling on Monday. (Photo: entry exitPTI)Security forces patrolled the streets in the hills and internet services remained suspended for the second day on Monday as Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters held protest march here demanding Gorkhaland and burnt effigies of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. .

Carrying black flags, protesters, especially the youth, marched on the streets of Chowkbazar area shouting slogans against the state government and the chief minister.

Protesters also burnt effigies of Banerjee and vowed to continue their fight for Gorkhaland.

"Three of our activists were killed. We are ready to give our lives but will not stop protesting till we get Gorkhaland," Sirish Pradhan, a GJM worker, said.

Several small processions were taken out by GJM activists in various parts of Darjeeling.

Internet services remained suspended for the second day today.

According to police sources, the step was taken to stop GJM activists from using the social media to spread "provocative posts".

Security forces patrolled the streets as the situation remained tense on the fifth day of GJM-sponsored indefinite shutdown.

"The situation is still very tense. Since morning there has been no incident of violence. But we are on high alert and are prepared for any eventuality," said a senior police officer.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged all concerned parties and stakeholders to attend an all-party meeting called by the state government in Siliguri on June 22 on the prevailing situation in Darjeeling.

She urged the people to maintain peace and said, "Violence cannot be a solution to any problem and only talks can solve it".

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had appealed to the protesters yesterday not to resort to violence and instead, hold dialogue to resolve any issue.

He said resorting to violence would never help them in finding a solution and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.

GJM expressed their "displeasure" with the Centre and questioned the absence of BJP MP from Darjeeling S S Ahluwalia at the time of crisis.

"The role of alliance partner BJP is very unfortunate and very disappointing. We had expected something positive from the part of the Central government. We feel we are being used as pawns by the Centre and the state," Darjeeling MLA and senior GJM leader Amar Singh Rai said.

GJM is an ally of BJP and it was with the help of GJM that BJP won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat twice in 2009 and 2014.

"We are ready to sit with the Centre anytime. But with the state, the condition would be that they withdraw all forces and allow normalcy to return as a confidence building measure. And we will sit for dialogue with Gorkhaland as the sole agenda," Rai said.

GJM activists had taken out a protest march here yesterday carrying the bodies of two party supporters who, they alleged, were killed in police firing on Saturday.

Police pickets and barricades were placed in front of the government and GTA offices andentry-exitoints of the hills while Rapid Action Force (RAF) and a sizable number of women police personnel were also deployed.

Except medicine shops, all others shops and hotels were closed in the hills.
Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission President Swami Atmasthanandaji Maharaj passed away on Sunday after a prolonged illness, said the Belur-based Math. He was 98.

The monk, who was elected President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission on December 3, 2007, had been admitted to Seva Pratishthan hospital from February 21, 2015 for treatment of old-age ailments.

"With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Atmasthanandaji, President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, on Sunday, at about 5:30 pm at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital, Kolkata," said a statement from the Math.

The cremation will take place at Belur Math on Monday at about 9.30 p.m and the gates of Belur Math will remain open tonight and through Monday till the last rites are completed, it added.

Born in May 1919, at Sabajpur near Dhaka, he received "emantra diksha" from Swami Vijnananandaji Maharaj (a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna) in 1938 and joined the Ramakrishna Order at Belur Math in 1941 at the age of 22.

In 1945, Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj, the sixth President of the Order, gave him Brahmacharya vows and in 1949, Sannyasa vows and the name Swami Atmasthananda.

After serving the Order at Belur Math and the branches at Deoghar (Vidyapith) and Mayavati (Advaita Ashrama), he served Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj himself for a long time and spent several years in his company in the solitude of Shyamla Tal in the Himalayas.

In 1952, he was posted to Ranchi TB Sanatorium branch as an Assistant Secretary. He worked hard to expand itss services in many ways. Sent to Rangoon Sevashrama as its Secretary in 1958, he developed its hospital to make it the best hospital of Burma (Myanmar) at that time.

He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and Member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1973.

In 1975, he was appointed Assistant Secretary of the twin organisations.

Under his stewardship as Relief Secretary, the Math and Mission conducted massive relief and rehabilitation operations in various parts of India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

He became the General Secretary of the Math and Mission in 1992 and continued to be in that post for five years till 1997 when he became a Vice-President of the Order.



Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has condoled the demise of Swami Atmasthananda.



"The demise of Swami Atmasthananda ji is a personal loss for me. I lived with him during a very important period of my life", Modi tweeted.



The demise of Swami Atmasthananda ji is a personal loss for me. I lived with him during a very important period of my life. pic.twitter.com/eY3TKU41Xf  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2017



Expressing her grief, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said in a tweet: "Saddened that Rev. Swami Atmasthanandaji, President, Ramakrishna Math & Mission passed away today at Seva Pratishthan."

"A life of outstanding social and religious service. This is an irreparable loss to mankind," she added.
He is a born frequent flier  a baby boy, born on Sunday 35,000 feet above sea level on a plane from Saudi Arabia to India, has received a free lifetime pass from the airline as his first birthday gift.

flight 9W 569 took off from Dammam for Kochi at 2.55 am today and when an expectant mother travelling onboard went into premature labour the crew declared a medical emergency and diverted the flight to Mumbai.

While the Boeing 737 with 162 passengers on board was still over the Arabian Sea, the cabin crew requested on the public announcement system for a doctor to come forward. But since there was none a female nurse travelling to Kerala, named Wilson, volunteered to help deliver the child along with the airline staff.

After the plane landed in Mumbai, both the mother and the baby were rushed to a hospital and were said to be doing well, according to the airline.

"Being the first baby to be born in-flight for the airline, is pleased to offer the newly-born a free lifetime pass for all his travel on Jet Airways," the airline said in a statement.

The plane later resumed its onward journey to Kochi and reached its destination at 12.45 pm after a delay of 90 minutes.
The demand for Gorkhaland has crossed ethnic boundaries. Muslims and a part of the Rajasthani population have joined in to demand a separate statehood for the Darjeeling Hills, amid larger protests led by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM).
Even as the indefinite strike called by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) enters into its eighth day, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday left for her Netherlands visit.

Mamata, who left to address a United Nations meet, said her ministers were monitoring the situation in violence-hit Darjeeling.

"Violent protests won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation," she told ANI at Kolkata airport.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said he has spoken to Mamata over the law and order situation in Darjeeling.

Thirty-six policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

The GJM announced an indefinite strike from Monday encompassing Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the Dooars protesting against Mamata Banerjee's decision to make Bengali language compulsory in state-run schools.

The strike was called even after the Chief Minister assured that the new rule would not be imposed in the hill districts.

The protestors are also asking for a separate Gorkhaland, a long-pending demand of the people of the hills.

Earlier in the day, Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) chief Bimal Gurung claimed that the West Bengal Police are illegally entering their supporters' houses and torturing them and also accused them of killing two of his supporters.

He said that GJM would further strengthen their agitation.

Mamata Banerjee tore into the GJM supporters and said that they aren't listening to the court, even after it had passed an order citing the bandh was "illegal."

Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reviewed the security situation in West Bengal's Darjeeling by sending more troops to help restore normalcy as the state government has not yet submitted its report on the situation.
The Australian government today announced that Indian nationals can apply for a visitor visa online starting July 1.

Australia's Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Alex Hawke, said the online application option would make applying for the country's visitor visas easier and enhance the experience for Indians.

There has been a significant increase in demand for Australian visas in India with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, an official statement said.

In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indian nationals.

"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," Hawke said.

It will offer benefits like 24/7 accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and the ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the department's ImmiAccount portal.

"Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible," he said.
India captain Virat Kohli says Fakhar Zaman's cavalier approach was difficult to counter as 80 per cent of his "high-risk shots" came off well during the Champions Trophy final against Paksitan.

Zaman's 114 led Pakistan to a commendable 338 for 4, which they defended successfully.

The Indian captain admitted that the rookie left-hander's approach did upset the rhythm of his bowlers after he got a reprieve off a Jasprit Bumrah 'no-ball'.

"When a guy like Azhar Ali, who is a conventional batsman, plays his shots, you can still have a plan. But for a guy like Zaman, it becomes really difficult to stop players like him, because I think 80 per cent of his shots were high- risk and they were all coming off.

"So you can only do so much, as I said, as a bowler and as a captain when that is happening," Kohli did sound a tad helpless trying to explain Zaman's performance.

"Sometimes, you have to sit and say, the guy is good enough on the day to tackle anything. You can only do so much. As I said, you can do little to control when people are going well like that, and we certainly tried to make them hit in areas that we felt it would be uncomfortable, but we just didn't have anything going our way in that partnership (Zaman-Azhar). We tried our best to hit good areas but they just batted really well today."



The Indian captain conceded that they needed to check the extras, 13 wides and three no balls.

"The extras are something that's never a good feeling to concede so many. That is something that we need to keep a check on. You know, those things are something that are controllable. A guy hitting a good shot is something that after a stage it's not in your control as you have already bowled the ball but conceding extras is something that we can control as a team," he said.

"I mean, 25 extras is a bit too much in a game like that, and that's something that we certainly need to take care of in the future. Obviously, the same bowlers are going to play, the same guys are going to bat. But the more consistent you get in learning from games like this, it's better for the team in the future. So yeah, that's an area we certainly need to look at.
The Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoOSAA) has started the centralised counselling and seat allotment from June 16, 2017. Students can fill registration form from the official website, josaa.nic.in. JEE Advanced 2017 result was announced on June 11, 2017 Sunday.
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Earlier today BJP named Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit and a BJP leader, as the ruling NDA's candidate for the July 17 Presidential election. The tenure of Pranab Mukherjee as the President of India will be over on July 24 and there was a lot of buzz surrounding the candidates in the reckoning for the position.
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Subramanian Swamy on Sunday called for a cess to fund cow shelters across the country. If we ask to pay Re 1 on petrol for gaushalas, the country will be flooded with money, he said at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Indian Express reported.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's tweet on the death of a 50-year-old activist Zafar Khan, has landed her in trouble. Raje tweeted that the demise of social worker Zafar Khan was extremely unfortunate and an investigation had been launched into the matter.


Highlighting the importance of dairy towards doubling the farmers income in the next five years, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has sought the cooperation of domestic dairy giant Amul to bolster the state dairy space.
The Indian Navys P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft  reputedly the worlds most fearsome submarine hunters  have proved themselves in joint patrols with the US Navy in the Indian Ocean, tracking Chinese submarines. Last July, a pleased Indian Navy signed a billion-dollar contract with for four more P-8Is to augment the eight aircraft it already flies. Delivery will begin in 2020.
A reduction in inventory ahead of the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST) on July 1 may result in a shortage of about 5-10 per cent drug brands at the retail level, pharmaceutical industry executives and experts Business Standard spoke to said.



Stockists are keeping inventories at a minimum level to reduce the impact of tax increases and to bring down complexities that will accompany changes in the tax regime. The current rate of tax on medicine works out to around nine per cent, while under most drugs will be taxed at 12 per cent.



According to the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), stockists were holding 24 days inventory on June 14, which is 16 days lower than their May-end stocks. On June 7, the inventory holding was of 27 days.



Industry preparedness for the switch-over to the regime is also sub-par. Managing short-term disruptions due to the new tax regime will be challenging  50-70 per cent of stockists and chemists are not clear and have not initiated implementation of the in their businesses. Inventory rationalisation by stockists till July 1 might lead to short-term availability challenges, health care services provider QuintilesIMS said last week.


Branded mid-market and luxury hotels have a reason to cheer because the Council on Sunday relaxed the criteria for imposing the goods and services tax (GST) on hotel rooms.


In a major relief for farmers, the government of Maharashtra has announced Rs 3 increase subsidy to by raising its procurement prices from farmers without affecting purchase price for consumers.
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Despite its darkening political horizon, Qatar might turn out to be the saviour for 14,000-Mw stranded power plants in India. The two are in talks to create a special purpose vehicle (SPV) that will provide gas to revive these distressed units.
Global credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service on Monday dubbed as 'credit positive' for Indian banks the RBI plans to resolve 12 large bank loan accounts accounting for 25 per cent of the banking system's non-performing assets (NPA).

The rating agency said it expects that the effectiveness of the resolutions under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, will be limited.

According to Moody's, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) move is credit-positive for banks because any meaningful resolution under this plan can help improve their overall asset quality.

"Additionally, it also will set a precedent for resolving non-performing loans from smaller borrowers," Moody's said.

The RBI has asked banks to also review other NPAs and finalise a resolution plan in six months.

This plan follows the passage last month of an NPA ordinance that provides the RBI with greater legal authority to intervene in non-performing loan resolutions.

Under the Code, a case has to be resolved within a maximum of 270 days, after which a borrower company would be liquidated. Moody's expects a faster loan dues resolution process.

According to Moody's, though the RBI has not yet provided details of the provisioning norms, the directive is expected to negatively affect banks' profitability over the next year if they need to take large write-downs relative to their existing loan-loss reserves for those assets.

This also will accentuate the capital needs of weaker public sector banks, which may require a large capital infusion from the Indian government.

Moody's expects the effectiveness of resolutions under the IBC to be limited.

"In particular, once a resolution under the IBC is initiated, the company's control shifts from existing management to insolvency professionals," Moody's said.

"Nevertheless, given the nature of the assets, we expect that the management team in some cases will continue to play a role in preserving day-to-day operations," the credit rating agency added.

In addition, the strict timelines of a resolution may force some companies into liquidation and may have a negative effect on banks, particularly in cases where little collateral is available.
Amid doubts in some quarters over the tech preparedness for the goods and services tax (GST), the high-powered Council on Sunday decided to introduce the new indirect tax system from the midnight of June 30-July 1, but gave a relaxed timetable and exemption from penalties and late fees to industry while filing returns in the first two months.
Soon, you can out-vegan the staunchest vegan with your 'pure-vegetarian' medicine capsules. According to pharmabiz.com, an online portal for India's pharmaceuticals industry, the Union Health Ministry is looking to replace gelatin capsules with cellulose-based capsules.
Commerce & Industry Minister launches the Startup India Hub

The Commerce & Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman today launched theStartup India Virtual Hub, an online platform for all stakeholders of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India to discover, connect and engage with each other.Speaking about the need to bring the entire ecosystem together on one platform, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that Startup India Virtual Hub is an effort to create a marketplace where all the stakeholders can interact, exchange knowledge, and enable each other to grow. It will streamline the lifecycle of existing and potential startups, helping them access the right resources at the right time. She also encouraged all entrepreneurs in India to utilize this portal and all enabling stakeholders to contribute to the platform as much as possible. The Minister also announced a new initiative, wherein a Startup exchange program amongst the SAARC nations would be organized.The portal will host startups, investors, funds, mentors, academia, incubators, accelerators, corporates, Government bodies and more. The Hub attempts to solve the problem of information asymmetry and lack of access to knowledge, tools, &experts, especially in the nascent ecosystems across Tier II and III towns.The Virtual Hub is a dynamic & interactive platform that will facilitate learning & development, networking, mentorship, funding,etc. for startups.

The basic principle behind developing this platform is to aggregate different offerings of theecosystem and enable discovery by the right audience. Startup India Hub has partnered with various organizations to on-board entrepreneurs & investors, as well as build knowledge modules. To ensure accessibility across various platforms, dedicated Apps are also available on both Android and iOS. India is the third largest startup ecosystem around the globe, with 3-4 startups commencing every day. The Hub will act as a nodal platform and will enable users to connect with ecosystem stakeholders, access free learning resources, tools & templates on legal, HR, accounting & regulatory issues and discussion forums. The Hub has also aggregated over 50 relevant Govt schemes/programs. In the next phase, the platform will also aggregate schemes available across various state governments. To provide a better user experience, the platform has been enabled to build smart intelligence along with Chatbots to automatically collate, update information and respond to queries. The launch event of the Hub was kick-started by a panel discussion on Navigating the Startup Landscape with a representative from each of the startup, investor, incubator, accelerator, and mentor communities. The discussion was followed by an address by Shri Ramesh Abhishek Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion who made a presentation on various initiatives taken up under the Startup India Initiative. In his closing remarks, Joint Secretary Shri Rajiv Aggarwal requested all the members of the ecosystem to register on the Hub.
Indian Air Force gears up for the 3rd International Yoga Day

For commemorating the 3rd International Yoga Day, Indian Air Force has issued directions to all its Air Force Bases for befitting celebration on 21 Jun 17 for promoting 'Knowledge and Practice' of Yoga. During 'Man Ki Baat' on 28 May 17, Hon'ble Prime Minister had desired that efforts should be made to encourage participation of Three Generations' together towards the commemoration of 3rd International Yoga Day.

In view of this, IAF has trained over 800 air warriors as Yoga instructors for undertaking in house training of Air Force personnel, families and Air Force School children.

Mass Yoga demonstration and practice is planned at New Delhi at Air Force Station New Delhi and Vayu Sena Vatika at Gurugram for IAF personnel and families of Air Headquarters and nearby Units. The itinerary includes reading out the message of Hon'ble Prime Minister, introductory talk on importance and health benefits of practicing Yoga, Yogic exercises and meditation. Similar events are also being held at other Air Force Stations all across the country.
PM welcomes the first Air Freight Corridor flight from Kabul to India; thanks President Ghani for the initiative

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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has welcomed the first Air Freight Corridor flight from Kabul to India. Prime Minister thanked Afghan President H.E. Ashraf Ghani for the initiative. .

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Happy to welcome the first Air Freight Corridor flight from Kabul. .

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Direct connectivity between India and Afghanistan will usher prosperity. I thank President Ashraf Ghani for the initiative", the Prime Minister said. .

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As British conservatives licked their wounds a week ago, and French voters were electing hundreds of rookies to Parliament to strengthen the hand of President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainians, at last, had a reason to celebrate  and they did, partying by the thousands in Kiev. For them, June 11 was the dawn of the long-awaited era of visa-free travel to Europe. One local magazine called it Ukraines Berlin Wall moment.
An American fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane that the US-led coalition said attacked its allies in the fight against the Islamic State group in the war-torn country.

The escalation comes as Syria's six-year-old war becomes ever more complex, with US forces and their allies converging on the northern IS bastion of Raqa in close proximity to Russian-backed regime troops.

Further complicating matters, Iran said it launched missile strikes Sunday against "terror bases" in Syria's northeastern Deir Ezzor province in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital claimed by IS.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces -- an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters -- is battling to oust the jihadists from Raqa, and broke into the IS stronghold city last week.

Government forces are not involved in the battle for Raqa, but they are advancing in an area southwest of the city, skirting around SDF fighters, their eyes set on the oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor.

"Aircraft from the ' coalition' targeted one of our fighter planes in the Resafa region of southern Raqa province this afternoon while it was conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group," said the army.

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

The US-led coalition later confirmed it shot down the Syrian warplane it said had dropped bombs near SDF forces.

"At 6:43 pm (1743 GMT), a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters... In accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet," the Combined Joint Task Force said in a statement.

It said that two hours earlier, forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad had attacked the SDF in Jaaydine, south of Tabqa, "wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town".

Coalition aircraft stopped the advance of Syrian pro- regime troops with a "show of force," the coalition added.

The Syrian army said the "aggression" against it came as government troops and their allies made ground in the battle against IS "on several fronts in the badiya".

It was referring to a large stretch of desert that extends over some 90,000 square kilometres from central Syria to the borders with Iraq and Jordan to the east and southeast.

Since 2015, much of the badiya has been held by the jihadist group, but Syria's army has been chipping away at it for months.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the fighting broke out in two villages, Jaaydine and Shouwayhane, some 40 kilometres south of Raqa.

The Observatory said the clashes came after regime troops had reached the edges of Resafa, also in the same area, as part of an offensive to reach Deir Ezzor.

"The regime is trying to reach the oil province of Deir Ezzor through Raqa," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.

The regime has lost control of many oil and gas fields since the start in 2011 of Syria's conflict, especially in the provinces of Homs and Deir Ezzor.

Most of the province is held by IS, including parts of the provincial capital, Deir Ezzor city, and the jihadists are besieging government-held parts of the city.

SDF fighters entered Raqa on June 6 after months of heavy clashes to encircle it, and the US-led coalition has been backing them with air strikes, equipment and special forces advisers.

Since then they have seized a few neighbourhoods, including one in the east and one in the west, and are battling to push into the Old City of Raqa.

An estimated 300,000 civilians were believed to have been living under IS rule in Raqa, including 80,000 who fled there from other parts of the country.

IS seized Raqa in 2014, transforming it into the de facto Syrian capital of its self-declared "caliphate".

Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard said they fired Sunday "medium-range missiles" targeting "a terror base" in Deir Ezzor "in retaliation" for the June 7 attacks in Tehran claimed by IS.

Seventeen people were killed when gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the Iranian capital.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

It was the first missile attack by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

Senior Iranian officials had put the blame on Riyadh after the attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was "promoting terrorist groups" in Iran, while the Guard vowed to avenge the bloodshed.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of "volunteer" fighters recruited among its own nationals, and among Shiite communities in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

More than 320,000 people have been killed in Syria since the conflict began with anti-government protests in March 2011 before turning into a complex war involving regional and players.
Britain's negotiators came to Brussels seeking a "new, deep and special partnership with the European Union" on Monday as talks on the unprecedented British withdrawal from the European Union finally got under way.

A beaming Secretary David Davis, a veteran campaigner against EU membership, told a sombre Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator, that his team aimed to maintain a "positive and constructive tone" during "challenging" talks ahead in the hope of reaching a deal that was in the interests of both sides.

A year after Britons shocked the continent by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main export market, the debate within Prime Minister Theresa May's cabinet on precisely what kind of trading relationship to pursue has perplexed EU leaders, who warn time is tight to agree on terms before Britain leaves in 2019.

"We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit," said Barnier, a former French minister, as he greeted Davis at the European Commission's Berlaymont Building headquarters.

Those were, he said, the rights of expatriate citizens and problems of a new EU-UK border, notably cutting across Ireland. He did not mention a third EU priority -- that Britain settle a bill of tens of billions of euros before it leaves in 21 months.

That financial issue is already a bone of contention, as is Brussels' refusal to discuss a new free trade deal until after it is resolved. May, whose future is uncertain after she lost her Conservative majority in an election this month, has insisted that trade talks start immediately and run in parallel.

While Barnier insists on the "sequencing" of talks, so that trade negotiations cannot start until probably January, finding a way to avoid a "hard" customs border for troubled Northern Ireland may well involve some earlier discussion of the matter.

A bigger problem may be for British negotiators to resolve what trade relationship they want. While "Brexiteers" like Davis have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties.

Special partnership

The bloc has expanded steadily since first formed as the European Economic Community in 1957 by France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxemburg. It currently numbers 28 members. Never before has a country sought to leave.

Secretary Davis, noting shared security threats for governments across Europe hours after a van rammed worshippers at a London mosque, said: "There is more that unites us than divides us.

"We are ... determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves, our European allies and friends."

Britain's Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union David Davis and his delegation sit across from European Union's chief negotiator Michael Barnier and his delegation at the start of their first day of talks at the European Commission

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe that May's government may, at last, be coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.

After Davis and Barnier met over lunch in the Commission's top floor dining rooms, their teams broke up into "working groups" that will be charged with handling specific areas of talks that the EU expects to take place for a week every month.

Barnier said he was hoping to have a clearer timetable by the end of the day. He has said a divorce deal should be ready by October next year to give time for parliamentary approval. With or without a deal, Britain will be out of the EU on March 30, 2019. EU leaders want May to lay off threats that she would walk out and leave a chaotic legal limbo for all Europeans.

But Union leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to quit.

When 52 percent of British voters opted for Brexit, some feared for the survival of a Union battered by the euro crisis and divided in its response to chaotic immigration. The election of the fervent europhile Macron, and his party's sweep of the French parliament on Sunday has revived optimism in Brussels.
President Emmanuel Macron of France won a crucial stamp of approval on Sunday as voters gave him and his allies a decisive majority in parliamentary elections, but a record-low turnout cast a shadow over his victory, pointing to the hurdles he will face as he seeks to revive the countrys economy and confidence.
Traditional black and white silver prints by prominent Finnish photographer Pentti Sammallahti. Runs through 6/24.

ABOUT THE EVENT

photo-eye Gallery will host an Opening for the exhibition Friday April 28th from 5 7pm, corresponding with the Railyard Arts Districts Last Friday Art Walk. Warm Regards will remain on view through June 24th, 2017.

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Pentti Sammallahti is a traveler and a visual poet. Endowed with an extraordinary 15-year grant from the Finnish government Sammallahti has travelled widely from his native Scandinavia, across the Soviet Republics through Siberia, to Japan, India, Nepal, Morocco, Turkey, throughout Europe, Great Britain, and South Africa. Meticulously well-seen, Sammallahtis photographs are imbued with a sense of wonder, delight, and reverence for the world at large while reflecting on both beauty and the human condition. He focuses on the people and animals of far off places recording the relationships between them and their environment. A master craftsman, Sammallahti is always in pursuit of the perfect means to communicate his intentions by subtly toning each of his rich silver gelatin prints. Over the years, photo-eye Gallery has had the pleasure to receive Penttis prints in treasured bundles signed with "Warm Regards".

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Inspired by his grandmother Hildur Larsson, a newspaper photographer, and viewing Edward Steichens seminal The Family of Man at Helsinki Art Hall in 1961 Pentti Sammallahti began making images at the age of 11. At 21, Sammallahti was featured in his first solo exhibition marking the beginning of a professional career that would come to influence an entire generation of Finnish photographers. Prior to receiving the Finnish States 15-year artist grant, Sammallahti taught at the Helsinki University of Art and Design, and has released thirteen portfolios and monographs since 1979 including The Russian Way and Here Far Away. In 2003, at the opening of the Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation in Paris, France, Pentti was named one of Cartier-Bressons 100 favorite photographers, and works by Sammallahti where exhibited from Cartier-Bressons personal collection. Penttis work can be found at the Museum of Modern Art, the Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris, France, Pushkin Museum, Moscow, Russia, among others, and he has received awards such as the Samuli Paulaharju Prize of the Finnish Literature Society, State Prizes for Photography, Uusimaa Province Art Prize, Daniel Nyblin Prize, and the Finnish Critics Association Annual.
The extraordinary outcome of the UK general election and the uncertain domestic political climate has led to calls by Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon for a short pause in the Brexit process. Despite this, Brexit negotiations are now scheduled to begin on June 19.
Fake suicide vests worn by the assailants in the London Bridge attack were made with disposable water bottles attached to leather belts, police revealed today.

"I have not seen this tactic in the UK before where terrorists create maximum fear by strapping fake explosives to themselves," said police commander Dean Haydon, who is leading the investigation.

His force released photographs of the blood-smeared bottles covered in silver and black tape, through which the brown belts had been laced.

"Anyone who saw them on the night would have thought they were genuine. It is hard to speculate what the motive was for wearing the belts," Haydon said in a statement.

"It could be that they had plans to take the attack in to a siege situation or it might be that they saw it as protection from being shot themselves."



Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba killed eight people last Saturday night after driving into pedestrians and then embarking on a stabbing spree on the popular nightlife spot. They were shot dead by police.

It was the third terror attack in Britain in as many months, and was claimed by the Islamic State group.

Haydon praised the bravery of police officers and members of the public who tackled the men, saying the vests would have been clearly visible.

"If you are fighting back or aiming a shot at someone wearing the device you would clearly be very aware that you could be caught in an explosion," Haydon said.

Police arrested 20 people after the attack and seven remained in custody today.

It was earlier revealed that the assailants had prepared a stash of Molotov cocktails and initially tried to hire a truck rather than a van to mow down pedestrians.

Forensic officers examining their vehicle found "13 wine bottles with rags wrapped around them and believed to be filled with a flammable liquid," as well as two blowtorches, police said.
French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party won a massive majority in parliamentary elections today, early projections showed, dominating the country's traditional forces in a dramatic re-drawing of the political map.

Macron's year-old Republic on the Move (REM) and their allies were set to win between 355 and 425 seats in the 577- seat National Assembly, according to partial results after the second round of an election in which many high-profile figures were thrown out.

The result, if confirmed, would give 39-year-old Macron one of France's biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his business-friendly, pro-EU programme.

But turnout was estimated to be extremely low, at around 44 per cent, giving his critics grounds to claim he has no groundswell of support.

The assembly is set to be transformed with a new generation of lawmakers -- younger, more ethnically diverse and with far more women than the outgoing parliament.

The scale of the change is forecast to be so large that some observers have compared the overhaul to 1958, the start of the present presidential system, or even the post-war rebirth of French democracy in 1945.

Just months ago, Macron was given little chance of becoming president, never mind dominating parliament, but he and the movement he founded 16 months ago have tapped into widespread desire for wholesale change.

His party dominated France's traditional parties, the rightwing Republicans and Socialists, but also the far-right National Front (FN) of defeated presidential candidate Marine Le Pen which fell far short of its target.

The Socialists were the biggest losers of the night, punished by association with years of high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence.

The party lost around 200 seats after five years in power under former president Francois Hollande, leaving them with only around 27 to 49 seats.

The Republicans hung on to between 97 and 130 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party.

Le Pen's FN were only expected to win four to eight seats but she was elected an MP.

But despite the zest for political renewal, the vote failed to generate much excitement.

Official statistics showed turnout at a near 60-year low, revealing a high degree of election fatigue after four votes in under two months.

"People are tired of always seeing the same faces," said Natacha Dumay, a 59-year-old teacher voting in the northeastern Paris suburb of Pantin where Socialist former justice minister Elisabeth Guigou was voted out a week ago.

"Even if we don't know the new faces it's not important. We're not voting for individuals but for a programme," Dumay added.

Turnout will be closely watched after it hit a near 60- year low in the June 11 first round of voting, leading some to warn Macron that his mandate is not as strong as he thinks.

REM won 32 percent of the votes cast in the first round, but this represented only about 15 percent of registered voters.

"Go and vote!" Prime Minister Edouard Philippe urged on Thursday, calling it both "a right and a responsibility".

Around half of REM's candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism. They include a mathematician, a female bullfighter and a former Rwandan orphan.

The other half are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians drawn from established parties including ally MoDem.

Le Pen's victory was a rare bright spot for Le Pen's nationalist and anti-EU party which was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron but is now expected to have only a handful of lawmakers.

The hard-left France Unbowed is also struggling to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election.
Four assailants have been killed by security forces in Mali after an attack, which left at least two people dead, on a tourist resort popular with foreigners close to the capital Bamako, the country's security minister said.
The Lahore High Court on Monday fixed July 3 as the date for the next hearing of a petition challenging Jamaat-ud- Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Muhammad Saeed's detention as it adjourned Monday's hearing, according to reports.

Earlier, a division bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan had reserved the decision on June 7 after the Punjab Government submitted its reply over Saeed's detention.

According to reply, Saeed and his aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - were detained on the instruction of the federal government for their alleged involvement in activities damaging peace and security of the country.

In February, the JuD leader and his four aides challenged their house arrest as well as the addition of their names in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) in the Lahore High Court.

They were put under house arrest on January 30 invoking Section 11EEE of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

Earlier on April 20, Pakistan Interior Ministry in a written reply to the Lahore High Court defended the detention of the JuD leaders saying that no laws were violated in an issuance of the detention orders against Saeed and his aides.

The ministry said the JuD and FIF had been kept under observation on the basis of a report sent by the Foreign Affairs Ministry. In light of that report, the federal government had reasons to believe that JuD and FIF were engaged in certain activities which could be prejudicial to peace and security and in violation of Pakistan's obligation to the United Nations Security Council resolution.

The JuD has already been declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the United States in June 2014.

The JuD chief also carries a reward of $10 million announced by the US for his role in terror activities.
Thirty-one student startup founders from six states in India are on a week-long visit to Silicon Valley to pitch, network and learn from the best at the tech Mecca under a flagship #StartInCollege programme instituted by the Startup Village Collective SV.CO in partnership with Facebook.

The students from various engineering colleges, who have built their startup products while enrolled in SV.CO's digital learning program, are on a week-long visit to showcase their prototypes, learn product development and skills, and get exposure to the world-class startup ecosystem in Silicon Valley, according to a release in Kochi.

SV.CO's startup program for first-time founders is supported by the Department of Science and Technology, the Government of India, the US Embassy in India and has multiple state partners giving support to their respective students.

Startup industry leaders Paytm and Freshworks are on board as partners providing scholarships and mentoring to students.

In the US, the team, the largest single Indian student startup delegation to visit the Silicon Valley, were welcomed by the City Council of Menlo Park and housed at Menlo College.

On Tuesday (June 20) the founders will visit the Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park where they will have a pitch session and get feedback from experts at the social media giant.

"At Facebook, we believe the student community has a central role to play in helping build a world-class startup ecosystem in India. We are pleased to support the Start-in-college program that cultivates a sense of purpose amongst students and enables them to build meaningful projects from their college campus," said Satyajeet Singh, Platform Partnerships, Facebook India.

During their week-long stay till June 24, the students will visit other Valley landmarks, including offices of Google, Intel, Silicon Valley Bank, Freshworks, Zendesk and Bootup Ventures; and attend startup workshops at the North Eastern University and Google Launchpad.

Leading entrepreneur turned venture capitalist Rajeev Madhavan will share with the students his insights on building two multi-hundred million dollar technology startups.

Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) is sponsoring 19 of the students as part of its programme for startups.

"If we are to build a world-class startup ecosystem in India, as is our goal, our entrepreneurs need to get [the] first-hand experience of global best practices. KSUM's programme is intended for promising young founders to have that experience and increase their level of confidence while in college itself so they get an early startup," said Dr Saji Gopinath, CEO, KSUM.

The Startup Village Collective SV.CO, a first-of-its-kind digital platform with a mission is to build a world-class learning platform for students to become startup professionals and explore their full potential in life.

"The Silicon Valley visit is to give the students a world-class global exposure very early in life so that they can be more confident, motivated and get the ability to dream bigger than ever before as they immerse in the startup culture in Silicon Valley," said Sanjay Vijayakumar, Chairman, Startup Village Collective.
An American fighter jet has for the first time downed a Syrian warplane that Washington accused of attacking US-backed fighters, in a new escalation between the United States and regime forces.

The incident further complicates the country's six-year war and comes as a US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Iran on Sunday launched missiles from its territory against alleged IS positions in eastern Syria for the first time, in response to an IS-claimed attack in Tehran.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al- Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation but warn that the risks are high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields.

The Syrian jet was shot down yesterday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against IS, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7 pm as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces".

Syria's army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while "conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group."

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Regime ally Moscow also condemned the downing of the Syrian plane, with deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov saying: "This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of law... What is this if not an act of aggression?"

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital. It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syria's eastern border.
As has been widely reported, Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull recently lampooned Donald Trump in a stand-up performance at Canberra's Midwinter Ball. The ball is the Aussie equivalent of the White House correspondents dinner that Trump boycotted this year, except that proceedings are supposed to be confidential.
After multiple price increases since March, resulting in a rally, such as UltraTech, ACC, Ambuja Cements and Shree Cement have fallen from their highs. This is on the back of concerns related to less inventory at the stockist level, ahead of implementation of the goods and services tax.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is likely to take a less stringent approach in banning participatory notes (p-notes) from the derivatives market.
The made a smart recovery of 255 points to close at a new peak of 31,312 on Monday and the Nifty reclaimed the 9,600 level, riding piggyback on goods and services tax (GST) headway and expectations of reforms by Securities and Exchange Board of India. The saw a flurry of buying as investors sensed non-performing assets (NPA) resolution gaining traction after the Reserve Bank asked lenders to initiate bankruptcy proceedings against large defaulters.

Positive global cues emerging from other Asian that ended higher in tune with the weekend record closing at Wall Street propped up the here.

A firm opening at European shares in a reaction to the strong victory for President Emmanual Macrons centrist party in French parliamentary elections, as Britain begins formal Brexit talks, buoyed trading sentiment here. The market is back to the buoyed sentiment due to relaxation in return filing timeline to minimise the impact of transition to the GST. RBIs insistence that banks start the bankruptcy proceedings which will improve asset quality & strengthen balance sheet, led the index to climb by 1 per cent, said Vinod Nair, head of research, Geojit Financial Services.

After a strong opening, the BSE 30-share index hit a high of 31,362.15, before closing at a record high of 31,311.57, up 0.82 per cent, breaking its previous record closing of 31,309.49 on June 5. The gauge had lost 99.51 points in the previous two sessions.

The 50-share Nifty too scaled a high of 9,673.30 before ending 69.50 points up, or 0.72 per cent, at 9,657.55. Market rundown by Vinod Nair, head of research, Geojit Financial Services for your perusal. Risk-on improved after the GST Council on Sunday relaxed return filing rules for businesses for the first two months of the rollout of the new indirect tax regime even as it stuck to the July 1 launch date.

Buying activity gathered momentum after the Reserve Bank urged lenders to initiate bankcruptcy proceedings against large loan defaulters, brokers said Banking stocks hogged the limelight led by SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank that extended gains, rising by up to 1.94per cent.

Other gainers that also supported the key indices were Adani Ports (3.05 per cent), PowerGrid (1.67per cent), L&T (1.59 per cent), Reliance Industries (1.53per cent), TCS (1.44%), Hero MotoCorp (1.39%), ITC Ltd (1.35%), Asian Paint (0.92%), HDFC Ltd (0.89%), Cipla (0.39%) and Bajaj Auto (0.39%).

Among the BSE sectors, metal jumped 1.89%, followed by banking 0.96, capital goods 0.74%, FMCG 0.72%, oil&gas 0.45%, power 0.43%, PSU 0.29% and auto 0.25%. Broader markets looked mixed as the mid-cap index rose 0.07%, while small-cap index was down 0.08%.

Shares of Dredging Corporation of India rose 2.08% to Rs 705.30 on buzz of stake sale by the government in the company. Meanwhile, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 890.91 crore on Friday, as per provisional data.

However, the point of worry was foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) who sold stocks worth Rs 764.48 crore.

Globally, in the Asian region, key indices in Japan rose 0.62%, Hong Kong was up 1.16%, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.68%, South Korea was up 0.38% and Taiwan ended 0.92% higher. European indices were trading higher in their late morning session.
A special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) court on Monday adjourned arguments on quantum of punishment for convicts in the 1993 Mumbai blast case.

The matter has been adjourned till Tuesday.

Defence lawyer Abdul Wahab Khan moved application before the court to examine three witnesses for defence of his client Feroz Khan to which the TADA Court agreed.

Abdul Wahab Khan had made an application and sought two weeks time to prepare arguments on quantum of sentence. TADA court rejected his plea and said that the matter was urgent and could not be adjourned for this long.

However, the CBI lawyer asserted that he would argue for extreme punishment for all convicts Mumbai 1993 blast case

"The opposition has filed five applications among those there is one application where he wants to examine the witnesses on mitigating circumstances. They have asked for a report of the probation officer. They have asked for health reports also. The Court has allowed the report of the probation officer. Among the prescribed punishments, I will argue for the maximum punishment," CBI lawyer Deepak Salvi said.

TADA court last week convicted underworld don Abu Salem and others in connection with the 1993 blasts case.

Addressing media after the court's order, Salve said, "Mustafa Dossa conducted a conspiracy meeting in Dubai which was attended by Dawood Ibrahim and others. They hatched a conspiracy of the Mumbai blast to take revenge of the Babri Masjid demolition."

He further added that "the accused used to travel between Dubai and Pakistan for arms and ammunition training where Pakistan had given them green channel entry. Their targets were Indian politicians, high officials and Hindus."

257 people died while 713 others were injured after a series of bomb blasts rocked Mumbai City on March 12, 1993.

Salem was convicted under charges of conspiracy and terror activities, but was acquitted of some charges of TADA which he was framed in initially.

Accused Riyaz Siddique also convicted under TADA and other charges, but the court believed prosecution failed to prove conspiracy charges against Riyaz.

Accused Mustafa Dossa was found guilty of conspiracy, murder and terror activities in the case.

Accused Firoz Khan was convicted under charges of conspiracy and murder under sections of IPC, TADA and Explosives Act.

Other accused Tahir Merchant, Karimullah Shaikh were also convicted. Accused Abdul Qayyum was acquitted of all charges in the case. Court ordered his release on personal bond.

However, all accused were acquitted for the charge of waging war against the nation.

The court has set the next hearing date on June 19 to decide the date for argument on quantum of sentence.
The Afghan Defense Ministry said Monday that the country's security forces have cleared the strategic Tora Bora area, which was once the hideout of slain al-Qaeda founder Osama Bin Laden. The place was recently claimed by the Islamic State militants to be under their control.

Khaama Press quoted ministry spokesman General Dawlat Waziri as saying that the mountainous terrain and its surroundings were cleared during operations conducted over two days ago, adding the forces have inflicted heavy casualties on the IS.

Gen. Waziri added that the security forces are still stationed in the area and a search operation is underway for terrorists who fled the area during the operations.

This comes as the ISIS offshoot in Afghanistan, ISIS Khurasan, said last week that it has captured Laden's hideout in the remote Tora Bora valley in eastern Nangarhar province.

Meanwhile, the Nangarhar provincial government said Afghan forces have started clearance operations towards Alif Khel and Markhanai villages in Pacher Agam district, located close to the Tora Bora area which has been fully cleared.

The statement further added that no casualties have been reported among the security forces involved in the operations.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ailing Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) leader Asim Hussain, who is facing trial in money laundering and sympathizing with terrorists , on Monday filed a petition in the Supreme Court and appealed for the removal of his name from the Exit Control List (ECL) so that he may travel abroad for his medical treatment.

According to Dawn, the petition states that Hussain is fighting severe health conditions, which need immediate medical care. He is reportedly undergoing a treatment for a cardiovascular ailment.

The PPP leader had filed a request at the Sindh High Court (SHC) for the removal of his name from the ECL, which was rejected on June 5.

The petition in the SC, filed by his counsel Barrister Latif Khosa, also points out that the PPP leader has already been granted bail by the SHC and anti-terrorism courts.

In March, the Sindh High court had granted bail to Hussain in reference to the two corruption cases filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

An anti-terrorism court on the same say issued a release order for Hussain in a case relating to the alleged treatment of terrorists at Ziauddin Hospital.

The NAB booked Hussain on charges of his involvement in a money laundering case of Rs 462.5 billion.

Hussain was released from prison on March 31 after 19 months in detention.

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A Class X girl was allegedly gangraped by a group of six people and thrown from a moving train before it reached Bihar's Kiul junction.

The girl's condition was said to be critical and a team of doctors was continuously monitoring her health at the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).

The girl hails from Lakhochak village in the Lakhisarai district.

She stepped out on Thursday night to answer the nature's call and was captured by a group of six people.

The accused took her to the Vanshipur Railway station and boarded a local train.

As the Kiul Junction approached, they threw her from the moving train in the wee hours of Friday.

The locals took the girl to a nearby medical centre where her parents reached in the afternoon.

With her condition continuously deteriorating, the doctors referred her to the PMCH where she was initially denied a bed.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has assured the girl of bringing the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice.

A team, led by Lakhisarai DSP Pankaj Kumar, has been formed to investigate the matter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday took a dig at the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government over the International Yoga Day (IYD) preparations and termed the government's efforts in this regard a 'publicity stunt'.

Making these remarks while addressing a press conference here, Nitish said he was not against yoga but did not approve of such publicity stunts.

"I am not against yoga day but I don't like publicity stunts on this (IYD). I also do yoga but have never advertised it," said Nitish.

He also announced that the Bihar Government won't participate in IYD by saying "we don't believe in advertisement".

Nitish shares sweet and sour relations with Prime Minister Modi, as the political tussle between the two leaders is not new.

Nitish's party Janata Dal (United) was an important ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led NDA for almost two decades.

For the first time, the rift between the two leaders came to fore when Nitish reportedly insisted the BJP top brass to keep then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi out of campaigning in 2005 Bihar assembly elections after the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) performed very well in Bihar in 2004 General Elections.

Reports said that Nitish was against the Gujarat Chief Minister's campaigning in Bihar over the 2002 Gujarat riots and believed his campaigning would keep Muslims voters away from the NDA.

The Bihar Chief Minister's distance from then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi continued during 2010 Bihar Assembly elections as well as the 2009 General elections.

However, probably Nitish Kumar was the only opposition leader who openly supported Prime Minister Modi's decision of the demonetisation.

Modi Government has made grand plans for the forthcoming International Yoga Day.

The Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) has been working tirelessly to make the International Yoga Day functions across the country and world a grand success.

Union government's 74 ministers would take part in Yoga Day functions in 74 cities on June 21.

Prime Minister Modi would take part in Yoga day function in Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknow where AYUSH Minister Shripad Naik would also be present.

AYUSH Ministry is working day and night to make the International Yoga Day a big success not only at level but also at international level. It has written letters to different Ambassadors and Embassies and urged to make the event successful.

International Yoga Day is celebrated annually on 21 June since its inception in 2015. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UN address had suggested the date of 21 June, as it is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares special significance in many parts of the world.

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People of China are not new to significant cuts from R-rated Hollywood movies.

Earlier this year, Chinese censor board cut eight minutes of footage from Hugh Jackman-starrer 'Logan' and 14 minutes off from 'Resident Evil: The Final Chapter'.

However, according to Hollywood Reporter, Ridley Scott's 'Alien: Covenant' also had to face the same situation as a total of six minutes have reportedly been cut from 'Alien: Covenant' for the Chinese release.

In the cases of 'Logan' and 'Resident Evil,' the offending material was the movies' most graphic violence and gore.

But, in this case not just bloodshed but Michael Fassbender's gay kiss (with himself) has also been removed.

Fassbender played an android named David in the 2012 film 'Prometheus' and reprises the role in the new Alien film. He also plays a new android, Walter, who shares a sensual kiss with David.

Local moviegoers were quick to pick up on the missing Doppelganger gay moment, which takes place late in the film between the two cyborgs Walter and David, both played by Fassbender.

"For the other missing parts, you don't notice or know when it happens, but you can really feel something is missing where the gay kiss is supposed to be," said Yu, a 26-year-old assistant at an advertising agency in Shanghai who saw the movie Saturday night with friends.

Many people who watched the movie believed that the removal of that kiss was much more jarring than various cuts in the movie.

China's stance on gay content has been inconsistent over the years. Multiple Oscar-winner 'Brokeback Mountain' (2005) was denied a release, despite director Ang Lee's star status in the country.

And yet, the widely discussed "gay moment" in Disney's live-action 'Beauty and the Beast' was allowed to run uncensored in cinemas earlier this year.

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The killing of two Chinese nationals by the Islamic State in Pakistan's Balochistan province, has sparked an outage on social media, with Chinese netizens demanding that their government send PLA troops to Pakistan to avenge the killings.

The reports about the killing of two Chinese nationals in Balochistan generated a cascade of discussion on Weibo, a Twitter-style Chinese social media platform, with many users calling for revenge, the South China Morning Post has reported.

"We shall start a war against IS, killing them on behalf of the two murdered Chinese," said a user going by the name Zhou Qi Bei Hou.

Chinese officials have yet to directly confirm the deaths, but a spokesman of the Chinese foreign ministry said Wednesday that Beijing is investigating whether the pair described in some reports as Chinese language teachers were illegally preaching in Pakistan before they were abducted and killed.

In an earlier press conference, the ministry said it had been told by Pakistan that the pair had "probably died".

"It is time to fight violence with violence," another user, Lingchen99096, said.

Beijing has been restricting such content from going online, but tens of thousands of comments regarding the atrocity remain.

The Dawn had reported that both China and Pakistan are now probing the ISIS claim. An investigation into the IS claim that the Chinese couple had been killed is on.

The IS claim came hours after Inter-Services Public Relations released details of a three-day operation in the Mastung area of Balochistan earlier this month targeting 'IS facilitators', in which security forces had killed 12 "hardcore terrorists, including two suicide bombers".

Two Chinese nationals were kidnapped on May 24 from the Jinnah town area of Quetta,the capital of Balochistan.

Unidentified abductors had forced the two Chinese nationals, a man and a woman, into a vehicle at gunpoint and drove away, The Dawn reported.

The two Chinese nationals were teachers at a private language school in Quetta.Another Chinese national reportedly managed to escape, while a passerby was injured during firing by the abductors.

China has raised its concerns about the safety of its nationals in Quetta because of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project. Thousands of Pakistani soldiers have been tasked with providing security for CPEC-related construction. There have been number of violent strikes in past two years in Quetta.

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The Congress Party on Monday condemned the alleged deployment of a government medical team at the venue of Chhattisgarh Home Minister Ramsewak Paikra's son's marriage in Raipur and said VIP culture will never come to an end.

"This is very unfortunate because they deployed doctors for their personal comfort by neglecting the common people. The VIP culture will never come to end and is still continuing," Congress leader P. L. Punia told ANI.

Another Congress leader Meem Afzal said such incidents show the dual face of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Government.

"When Lalu Yadav was not well and doctors were appointed then the same BJP party opposed that. Now, the party is doing the same thing and that's for some not so important reason. This shows the dual face of the BJP," Afzal said.

The image of the order copy of deploying a medical team, reportedly issued by Raipur district's Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) office on June 15, has already gone viral on social media.

The order states that as per the information provided by the special secretary to the minister, Ramsewak Paikra's son Lavkesh Paikra's wedding function is to be held at a city hotel on June 18.

It also reads that for emergency services, a five-member medical team will remained deployed at the venue till closing of the marriage and reception ceremony.

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The Congress Party on Tuesday suggested both the Central and the West Bengal Governments to take the Darjeeling matter seriously and to come to a decision together instead of going out as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee left for Netherlands.

"The situation in Darjeeling is becoming worse day by day. The Central and the state Governments must take the Darjeeling matter seriously and must take decision together by talking with the people there," Congress leader Meem Afzal told ANI.

Echoing similar views, another Congress Party leader P. L. Punia said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Bannerjee should be present in the state instead of going to Netherlands.

"I believe that instead of going to Darjeeling, she must be present in the state and think to solve the issue," he added.

Mamata yesterday left for her Netherlands visit even as the indefinite strike called by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) continued.

Mamata, who left to address a United Nations meet, said her ministers were monitoring the situation in violence-hit Darjeeling.

"Violent protests won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation," she told ANI at the Kolkata airport.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said he has spoken to Mamata over the law and order situation in Darjeeling.

Thirty-six policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

The GJM announced an indefinite strike from Monday encompassing Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the Dooars protesting against Mamata Banerjee's decision to make Bengali language compulsory in state-run schools.

The strike was called even after the Chief Minister assured that the new rule would not be imposed in the hill districts.

The protestors are also asking for a separate Gorkhaland, a long pending demand of the people of the hills.

GJM chief Bimal Gurung claimed that the West Bengal Police are illegally entering their supporters' houses and torturing them and also accused them of killing two of his supporters.

He said that GJM would further strengthen their agitation.

Mamata tore into the GJM supporters and said that they aren't listening to the court, even after it had passed an order citing the bandh was "illegal."

Meanwhile, Rajnath reviewed the security situation in Darjeeling by sending more troops to help restore normalcy as the state government has not yet submitted its report on the situation.
The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Monday alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has an alliance with the Gorkha people who are protesting in Darjeeling over the demand for a separate Gorkhaland.

"West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee tried her best to resolve this issue. Does BJP want Mamata Banerjee to suffer? If that is so then it's unfortunate," NCP leader Majeed Memon told ANI.

Another NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the people in the hill are having an alliance with the BJP.

"Since the violence is not coming to an end in Darjeeling, the Gorkhas are having an alliance with the BJP. It is the responsibility of the Centre to intervene to maintain peace in Darjeeling," Malik said.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has spoken to Mamata over the law and order situation in Darjeeling where the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) has been leading a violent protest.

Rajnath took to Twitter and informed that Mamata had apprised her of the situation prevailing in Darjeeling.

"Spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Sushri Mamata Banerjee this morning. She has apprised me of the situation prevailing in Darjeeling," he tweeted.

He further appealed to the people to help maintain peace in the conflict-hit region.

"I appeal to the people living in Darjeeling and nearby areas to remain calm and peaceful. Nobody should resort to violence," he added.

Meanwhile, GJM chief Bimal Gurung has said that Mamata was trying to divert their agitation into a different direction by claiming that the movement in Darjeeling hills was supported by insurgent groups of the north-east and some foreign countries.

He asserted the struggle for a separate Gorkhaland state would be intensified and if the police tries to stop them, it would only create more trouble.

As many as 36 policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

The GJM announced an indefinite strike from Monday encompassing Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the Dooars protesting against Mamata's decision to make Bengali language compulsory in state-run schools.

The strike was called even after the Chief Minister assured that the new rule would not be imposed in the hill districts.

The protestors are also asking for a separate Gorkhaland, a long pending demand of the people of the hills.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Otto Warmbier, the college student who returned to the United States last week after 17 months of detention in North Korea, died on Monday afternoon.

He had suffered severe brain damage during his captivity.

The Trump administration placed intense pressure on Pyongyang to release Warmbier when they learned of his condition.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m.," his family said in a statement said, the CNN reported.

"We would like to thank the wonderful professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who did everything they could for Otto. Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," it added.

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Defence experts on Monday said that Pakistan will continue to mislead the world and urged India to act against Islamabad.

"Pakistan continues to mislead the world. The Mastermind of the Bombay blast in 2008, Abdul Rahman Makki, in the video is enticing the youth of Kashmir. This has been going on and everyday such things are happening in Pakistan, and, I think, India has not been able to react and take concrete action against it," expert S. R. Sinho told ANI.

He added that Pakistan will continue with these kinds of gimmicks.

"I do not know what the policy makers are doing. I can't see things happening on the ground. I think India should know this is high time do something seriously about it and take a notice of it," Sinho asserted.

Another defence expert Shivali Deshpande said, "A mastermind of 2008 Mumbai attacks is conducting a press conference and is asking reporters to raise the issue of Kashmir. The militants are roaming very freely in Pakistan and they give freedom to these terrorists to hold press conferences and conduct rallies. Pakistan itself is digging its own grave."

Deshpande further said this is a golden opportunity for India to cash on the situation and to go out to the world and declare Pakistan a terrorist country.

Hafiz Saeed's brother-in-law and the second in command of the designated terrorist group Jamat ud Dawah (JuD), Abdul Rahman Makki, recently hosted an Iftaar party for journalists in Faisalabad.

In a video posted on YouTube on June 17, the Mumbai terror attack mastermind can be seen urging reporters to take up and spread the cause of 'Kashmir independence'.

"We turn to you (the journalists) as you have the power of pen and media. Through your talk shows you can do a lot (for this cause). So we urge the journalists here to wield there power and the experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir independence," Makki is seen as saying in the video.

He was given the charge of the head of Jamaat-ud-Dawah, which in February rebranded itself under the banner of Tehreek Azadi Jammu Kashmir (TAJK), after Saeed was put under house arrest by Pakistan's Punjab government. The move came after reportedly facing pressure from Washington.

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court today is likely to announce its verdict on a petition regarding Saeed's detention.

Saeed and his four aides challenged their house arrest, as well as the addition of their names in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), in the Lahore High Court.

They were put under house arrest on January 30 invoking Section 11EEE of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

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The Moscow International Film Festival is one of the most reputed film festivals in the world.

Over the course of the past 20 years, the Jury at the festival have been headed by leading film personalities with global recognition. Some of the finest Indian movies such as 'Baahubali: The Beginning', 'Badman', 'A Death in the Gunj', 'BeyYaar', 'U Turn', 'Kothanodi' and 'Baahubali 2: The Conclusion' will be screened at the festival.

Speaking on the occasion, Bollywood actor Gulshan Grover expressed his excitement saying, "Badman is India's first mockumentary film. The audience in Russia will have an opportunity to see some great works of creative brilliance by master Indian film makers by way of these iconic Indian movies which will go a long way in strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two countries via cinema. Indian Panorama shall spread the fragrance of India in the different parts of the world."

Rc Dalal, Co-Curator of IFFW said, "What better way to celebrate 70 Glorious years of India-Russia friendship. Indian Panorama will see the amount of love the film industry of India has gained. It will set new standards, a stage for the Indian Film Industry to explore new opportunities. Getting associated with Moscow International Film Festival is a step closer towards our vision, taking Indian Cinema to different parts of the world."

S. S. Rajamouli's magnum opus 'Baahubali 2' and Gulshan Grover's 'Badman' would be the opening film at the film festival.

The festival scheduled to be held on 22- 29 June 2017 at Moscow would see the presence S.S.Rajamouli and Gulshan Grover, who would represent the Indian Film Fraternity amongst a galaxy of film stars from Russia and across the world.

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Iran's Revolutionary Guard has said that it launched several missiles into Syria, targeting Islamic State fighters in retaliation for the attacks in Tehran on June 7.

The missile strikes, which occurred on Saturday, are the first reported ground-to-ground strikes from Iran into Syria since the Arab country descended into a civil war in 2011, the CNN reported.

"In this operation, several ground-to-ground midrange missiles were fired from IRGC bases in Kermanshah Province and targeted Takfiri forces in the Deir Ezzor region in Eastern Syria," the IRGC said on its official news website, Sepah News.

The IRGC uses the term Takfiri to describe ISIS.

Iran backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his fight against anti-government rebel groups and ISIS, which is primarily based in the Syrian city of Raqqa.

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Mobile Internet services were restored in the Kashmir valley on Monday evening, seven days after they were shut to avoid any untoward incident in the volatile region.

Internet services were suspended to prevent rumours from spreading, after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhat and his accomplice Faizan Ahmad were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Saimoh village of south Kashmir's Pulwama district.

A fresh surge of violence had hit the Valley after self-styled successor of dead Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander Burhan Wani was killed in an encounter with security forces in the Tral region of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to reports, Wani's successor, Sabzar Ahmad Bhat, was gunned down in an encounter in Saimu Village.

The Indian Government earlier on April 17 blocked access to 22 websites and applications, including Whatsapp, Facebook and Twitter, as well as 3G and 4G data services in the restive part of the northern state.

The ban came in the wake of reports that these social networking sites were being "misused by anti- and anti-social elements to create law and order disturbances" in Kashmir.

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Calling Democratic Alliance (NDA)'s Presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind as an epitome of dignity and civility, the Centre on Monday said that his nomination comes as a slap for those who branded the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as 'anti-Dalit'.

Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that Kovind who is well versed with Constitution of India, is a man who grew from the grass root level, never held his problem against him and kept on working for the betterment of the party and the nation.

"It is a matter of great assurance and appreciation that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah and the party leadership has decided to chose Ram Nath Kovind ji as the candidate for the President. He is an epitome of dignity, civility, he knows the constitution of India, he knows the parliamentary procedure and practice. More importantly he knows the entire polity of India as an activist himself. He has a long inning in the Parliament. He has also been a great worker from the grass root level," said Prasad.

"He was born in a very deprived condition as a Dalit but that he never held against him. A man of such rich experience is now going to become president of India is matter of great assurance. Surely the Prime Minister has appealed to the political parties, others will be appealing too, consistent with high tradition of India we must ensure that election of Ram Nath Kovind ji is done unanimously," he added.

Toeing similar sentiments Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan also welcomed Kovind's nomination and said that this initiative is a slap on the faces of politicos who dub the BJP as anti-Dalit.

"I would like to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking this historic decision. We welcome this decision. This decision is a slap on the faces of will who dub the Narendra Modi government as anti-Dalit," said Paswan.

"This decision proves that this government is committed towards the betterment of poor, Dalits and backward classes. All opposition leaders should support NDA's candidate and those who do not support it will be considered Anti-Dalit," he added.

Earlier in the day, the NDA announced Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind as its candidate for the upcoming Presidential polls.

The announcement was made in a press briefing by BJP president Amit Shah.

Shah further said that the saffron party hoped that the Dalit nominee, Kovind, would remain unchallenged as the choice and would be unanimously selected as the President of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to Twitter and, in a series of tweets, said, "Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmer's son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor and marginalised. With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation. I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised.

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Pakistan continues to mislead the world about its so called crack down on terrorism, however a glaring contrast to this claim came to light in a video accessed by ANI wherein one of the masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack addressed reporters in Pakistan's Faisalabad and beseeched them to highlight and foster unrest in Kashmir.

Hafiz Saeed's brother-in-law and second in command of designated terrorist group Jamat ud Dawah (JuD), Abdul Rahman Makki, recently hosted an Iftaar party for journalists in Faisalabad.

In a video posted on YouTube on June 17, the Mumbai terror attack mastermind can be seen urging reporters to take up and spread the cause of 'Kashmir independence'.

"We turn to you (the journalists) as you have the power of pen and media. Through your talk shows you can do a lot (for this cause). So we urge the journalists here to wield there power and the experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir independence," Makki is seen as saying in the video.

He was given the charge of the head of Jamaat-ud-Dawah, which in February rebranded itself under the banner of Tehreek Azadi Jammu Kashmir (TAJK), after Saeed was put under house arrest by Pakistan's Punjab government. The move came after reportedly facing pressure from Washington.

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court today is likely to announce its verdict on a petition regarding Saeed's detention.

Saeed and his four aides challenged their house arrest, as well as the addition of their names in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), in the Lahore High Court.

They were put under house arrest on January 30 invoking Section 11EEE of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

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The entire Opposition is up in arms against the Centre after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as Democratic Alliance (NDA) government's nominee for the upcoming presidential elections.

Not only the Opposition; Shiv Sena, an ally of the NDA, also alleged that Kovind's name was not discussed with the allies.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said party President Uddhav Thackeray will hold a rally in Mumbai evening to announce the party's decision.

However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Congress President Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh to seek Congress' support for Kovind.

Prime Minister Modi also spoke to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswamy over NDA's presidential candidate pick.

Telangana Chief Minister and TRS Chief K Chandrasekhar Rao extended his support to NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind after speaking to PM Modi.

The Prime Minister said that Kovind will make an exceptional President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised.

Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts, the main Opposition parties continued to fume.

. Congress:

The Congress said that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took the decision without taking the grand old party into confidence.

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that the BJP had assured that it would inform the Congress about its Presidential candidate in advance for a consensus but now they informed us after taking the decision.

"The Centre apprised the senior leaders, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh about the announcement over phone after taking the decision. So there is no question of mutual consent. We didn't expect this from them," said Azad.

He further said that the grand old party would not comment on NDA's Presidential nominee as of now and would meet on June 22 to formally discuss the matter.

. Janata Dal (United):

JD(U) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed happiness that the Bihar Governor would be the NDA's candidate for the President elections. He, however, said a detailed discussion would be held on the matter within the JD (U).

He was speaking to the media here after congratulating Kovind. Nitish also said that "I had a word with Laluji and Sonia Gandhi and there will be discussion on this. I have told them about my views".

. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP):

BSP chief Mayawati said she is not satisfied with Ram Nath Kovind's political ideology, but cannot reject his Dalit background.

Mayawati told ANI that it could have been better if BJP would have selected a name from a non-political background.

The BSP leader further added that she would wait and watch if Opposition announces a Dalit candidate as well.

. Communist Party of India (Marxist):

The CPI (M) said the way Kovind's name was announced it portends that there would be a political contest.

Yechury said, "Kovind ji was the chief of RSS's Dalit branch. So somewhere it is a political fight or contest. When Home Minister Rajnath Singh and I&B minister Venkaiah Naidu came to meet us, they said that they want to build a consensus. When we asked on whom they want to build consensus, they had no answer then. They said that when they decide, they will come back to us with a proposal. But instead of coming to us with the proposal they announced the candidate. Now we will take a call."

. Trinamool Congress(TMC):

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee didn't seem happy with the Kovind's candidature. She said that someone of the stature of President Pranab Mukherjee, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advani ji may have been made the candidate.

"I am not saying that the Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit to be the President. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP they have made him the candidate," Mamata said.

The election for the next President of India is to be held on July 17 as President Pranab Mukherjee will demit the office on July 24.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued the notification in this regard and the process of the nomination has started that will continue till June 28.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Netherlands on June 27, 2017 on a working visit. The visit assumes significance as India and the Netherlands are celebrating 70 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year. Netherlands Foreign Minister Bert Koenders visited India in May in preparation for the Prime Minister's visit.

In The Hague, Prime Minister Modi will meet the Dutch Prime Minister H.E. Mark Rutte and hold official talks with him. He is also expected to call on the King of the Netherlands, said Asha Antony, Second Secretary (Political and Information) in Indian Embassy at the Hague in a press release.

The last visit by a Prime Minister of India to the Netherlands was in 2004, when Dr. Manmohan Singh visited the Netherlands to participate in the 5th India-EU Summit. Prime Minister of the Netherlands H.E. Mr. Mark Rutte paid an official visit to India on 5-6 June 2015 accompanied by a large trade delegation.

Bilateral ties between the two countries are warm and friendly, anchored by strong economic and commercial relations. The visit is expected to significantly boost bilateral cooperation in all its aspects, especially trade, commerce and investment.

Modi's visit will boost economic relations with the Netherlands, which is the leading foreign investor in India.

"A large number of Dutch companies are active in India. A significant number of Indian companies are based in The Netherlands, so we look forward to boosting economic corporation and relations, bilateral trade and relations, and also cooperation in other areas too," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay said.

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Chennai-based Prodeb Brewery, one of the largest and most advanced microbrewery equipment manufacturers in India, has launched in the states of Karnataka, Odisha and West Bengal the state-of-the-art Micro Brewery Equipment developed on advanced Belgian Technology, suitable for producing hand-crafted beers of superior and authentic taste.

Built to perfection in line with the needs and nuances of classic beer making, Prodeb's breweries feature specially designed lautering vessel that supports in achieving nearly 96 percent extraction - the highest possible extraction in brewing. The lauter tank of advanced design includes provisions of steam jacket in the vessel. Prodeb's equipment is designed with a free board of above 40 percent which guarantees right volume of wort production in the brew house. The advanced multi-step mash system is truly one of its kinds and is a main reason for producing great tasting beer.

The quality, aesthetics and technology of Prodeb's microbrewery equipments meet European standards yet the price is very much Indian and ranging from Rs. 40 lakhs to Rs. four crores.

The system integrates branded gear box motors and refrigeration compressors for increased reliability as well as functionality. A wide option of up to 500 long lasting-finishes and suiting the interiors of the microbrewery offer unparalleled choice in aesthetics. Titanium finishes in copper, gold, oxidized black and even wood are a few worth mentioning.

As a responsible equipment manufacturer, Prodeb extends its support with experienced International Brew Masters, to maximize the efficiency and cost-effective solutions. The brewers are rotated in a minimum of 3 projects to ensure that even a small brewery avail the expertise of a great brewer.

Prodeb's Flagship Company Canadian Crystalline Water Limited specializes in water treatment. This expertise enables Prodeb to mock the classic styles of beer available abroad, simply by recreating the source water there, which makes for authentic beer.

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Russia's suspension of the use of a deconfliction channel over Syrian airspace with the United States will not lead to a direct confrontation with U.S. aircraft.

"There is every reason to believe that if someone previously had doubts that Russia is taking all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of its aircraft flights in Syria, then these doubts will disappear with the Defense Ministry statement," Sputnik quoted Russian upper house committee chairman Victor Ozerov as saying.

The U.S.-led coalition shot down the Syrian army's Su-22 aircraft on Sunday after it claimed that Syrian aircraft had attacked the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) positions south of Tabqah.

Ozerov said the Russian Defense Ministry's stern reaction to the U.S. attack gave him confidence "That neither the U.S. nor anyone else will take any actions that would threaten our aviation."

"In this regard, the threat of direct confrontation between the aviation of Russia and the US does not arise," the Federation Council's Committee on Defence and Security chairman said.

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The Russian government had renewed decades-old patents belonging to Donald Trump in Russia in 2016, including four on U.S. Election Day, causing more suspicion about the American President's business ties with the Kremlin.

Russia's intellectual property agency Rospatent had granted 10-year extensions to six Trump trademarks between April and December.

Trump had insisted he had no business deals in Russia, but special counsel Robert Mueller is probing into alleged meddling by Russia in the 2016 presidential election and possible collusion between the Kremlin and the Trump campaign.

Meanwhile, Jay Sekulow,a representative from President Donald Trump's legal team said the president was not under investigation for obstruction of justice.His campaign remains under several U.S. investigations for potential collusion with Moscow.

The Russian government had renewed multiple patents connected with Trump hotels and other branded products of that were set to expire at the end of 2016, according to the New York Times.

Some of the trademarks date back to as far as 1996, the Trump Organization still sought to extend them for another decade.

Trump has been claiming that he never seriously attempted to do business in Russia. "I have no deals in Russia. I have no deals that could happen in Russia, because we've stayed away," he said in a January press conference days before his inauguration.

Trump Company has another two trademarks due for renewal next year. But there is a lack of evidence that Trump pushed for or received, special treatment from the trademark office, which routinely renews deals with businesses worldwide.

Trump had hired the law firm Sojuzpatent to file at least eight trademarks in Russia between 1996 and 2008, including "Trump," "Trump Home" and "Trump Tower."

Trump, who still controls his business empire as President, sits in the White House, a move that could leave him vulnerable to potentially impeachable conflicts of interests. Last week, nearly 200 Democrats in Congress filed a federal lawsuit accusing Trump of violating the emoluments clause, an anti-bribery provision in the Constitution. It has been filed in the US district court for the District of Columbia.

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After the US military shot down a Syrian air force jet on Sunday, Moscow has vowed to target any plane from the US-led coalition flying west of the Euphrates river in Syria.

Earlier, the US military confirmed that a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet had shot down a Syrian SU-22 on Sunday.

The US said the Syrian jet had dropped bombs near Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters who are aligned with US forces in the fight against ISIS. Damascus said its plane had been on anti-Isis mission.

Russia's defence ministry said the US had given it no warning, following which Moscow was also suspending coordination over "deconfliction zones" that were created to prevent incidents involving US and Russian jets engaged in operations in Syria, reports the Guardian.

However, the Pentagon states that the Syrian jet had dropped bombs near US partner forces involved in the fight to extract Raqqa from Islamic State (ISIS) control.

Russia's deputy foreign minister, Sergei Ryabkov, said: "This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of law.

"What is this if not an act of aggression? It is, if you like, help to those terrorists that the US is fighting against, declaring they are carrying out an anti-terrorism policy."

The development increases the risk of a possible air fight between US and Russian warplanes in Syrian skies.
The Supreme Court on Monday ruled in favour of employees in the Majithia Wage Board dispute for journalists and non-journalist employees of newspaper establishments.

A vacation bench of the apex court headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi passed the order, saying the benefits of Majithia Wage Board is to be extended to contractual employees.

On February 8, the apex court dismissed all writ petitions moved by newspaper managements against the Majithia Wage Board.

It ordered the owners to pay their employees the wages as revised/determined by the wage board payable from November 11, 2011, when the Government of India notified the recommendations of the Majithia Wage Board.

All the arrears up to March 2014 would be paid to the eligible persons in four equal installments within a period of one year. The revised wages will become payable from April 2014.

Officials of Indian Newspaper Society (INS) were not available for comment. An email questionnaire sent to INS remained unanswered.

The judgment by Chief Justice P. Sathasivam on behalf of a three-member bench said the concept of 'variable pay' contained in the recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission has been incorporated into the Wage Board recommendations to ensure that the wages of the newspaper employees are on a par with employees of other sectors.

Such incorporation was made by the Majithia Wage Board after careful consideration, in order to ensure equitable treatment to employees of newspaper establishments, and it was well within its rights to do so.

The unanimous judgment further stated that the Wage Board has recommended grant of 100% neutralisation of dearness allowance. The Fifth Pay Commission granted the same in 1996. Since then, public sector undertakings, banks and even the private sector are all granting 100 percent neutralisation of dearness allowance.

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Singapore Airlines on Monday announced an array of special offers on its website and SingaporeAir mobile app, including an opportunity to avail two complimentary flight tickets on Vistara Airlines.

Under the new terms of the offer, the new and existing KrisFlyer loyalty card members will be eligible for booking a Singapore Airlines or Silk Air (regional wing of Singapore Airlines) return ticket from June 16 - 30 June on its website.

This offer is valid for travel between July 1 and August 31 2017 on Suites, First, and Economy (Flexi and Flexi Saver) fares.

The destinations covered under this offer include Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai.

Except for Singapore Airlines Suites or First Class passengers who will be entitled to Vistara's Class, customers will be allotted the same cabin class on their complimentary Vistara tickets with travel validity from July 21, 2017 to August 31, 2018.

Furthermore, travelers from India can redeem a complimentary 20 Changi Dollar Voucher for use at all participating shops, restaurants and lounges when they transit at Singapore Changi Airport.

Indian nationals can also avail of one-way, Visa Free Transit Facility for up to 96 hours in Singapore with a valid onward ticket and a valid visa from selected countries.

The transit facility will be provided at the discretion of the immigration authorities.

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Turns out, it is not "a moth to a flame," but "a flame to a moth" as a new study has revealed that a spruce budworm outbreak could increase forest fire risk.

"If you walk in the woods in an area that's being severely defoliated, it sounds like rain. It's all of their frass, the bug poo, falling through the canopy of the trees," said researcher Patrick James from Universite de Montreal.

More than that, it's devastating the economy.

"There's a huge consequence for the forest industry," James said. "The budworm changes the composition of the forest, it denudes the trees and leaves behind huge areas of standing dead and dry timber. Most of those trees don't get harvested, they don't go to the sawmill, profits aren't made."

Budworm outbreaks will cost the industry in New Brunswick alone an estimated $3 billion to $4 billion over the next 30 years, according to a 2012 study by University of New Brunswick researchers. Timber revenue will be lost, so will jobs, and the consequences will amplify as budworm, grown into dime-size moths, head south.

And in their wake comes something else: fire.

In his study, James shows that defoliation increases the risk of natural fires igniting eight to 10 years after a budworm outbreak - especially now, in the spring, before summer fire season starts. Interestingly, this risk actually decreases in the years immediately after an outbreak, since the "greenup" of ground vegetation keeps the soil moist and less likely to ignite.

For his study, James looked at defoliation data stretching back to 1963 in two vast ecosystems in eastern and central Ontario. These results suggest that fire management agencies, which normally rely on weather indicators, could also include defoliation data to better predict areas of high fire risk. Knowing when and where the fire risk is increased due to the budworm can lead to pro-active techniques like "salvage logging," harvesting dead trees from areas already defoliated.

"If you can reduce the amount of budworm-killed forests in an area, you would then reduce the risk of fire ignition, which would then reduce the probability of having large forest fires," James said.

The issue of how budworm affects fire is expected to become even more important in the future as both fire and insect activity is expected to increase due to climate change. However, how the interact and what sort of damage may result, remains uncertain.

Spruce budworm outbreaks happen every 35 years or so; the last one peaked in the early 1980s and the latest one began in Quebec in 2006. Natural Resources Canada warned last fall that while the impact is greatest on Quebec's North Shore and in the Gaspe and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, where 7 million hectares have been defoliated, budworm has been spotted in New Brunswick and may spread to the Acadian Forest.

The process works like this. First, the budworm larvae eat away at the tops of trees -balsam fir, black and white spruce. After several years, the dead treetops break off in the wind and their debris builds up on the branches below. Lightning strikes the dry material, which ignites, while meanwhile down on the forest floor an accumulation of needles lies ready to ignite, too.

Unseen in urban environments like Montreal, the budworm are nevertheless getting closer. They can be spotted in Quebec's Mauricie region, an hour north of Trois Rivieres, and around Ville Marie, south of Rouyn-Noranda in the Abitibi region.

"We're at an interesting point in the outbreak," said James. "Last year it increased, but at a slower rate. In Quebec's North Shore region, around Baie-Comeau, the budworm ate all they could, and with radar we detected great clouds of them on the move, migrating on the wind to areas that hadn't been so heavily affected, largely towards the south to the Lower St. Lawrence, the Gaspe and New Brunswick."

The moths are now "hovering on the New Brunswick border around Campbellton," he added, referring to a mass infestation that hit there last summer, when millions of larvae turned into moths and flew into town or were carried there by the wind, covering everything for miles around. "With that development, I would expect there'll be more activity in northern New Brunswick this year."

In the 1950s, authorities tried to contain budworm outbreaks by spraying infested areas with DDT. With that toxic method no longer an option, authorities now resort to a budworm-specific bacteria called Bt. The problem is price: DDT cost only a few cents per hectare to spray, whereas Bt costs $40 per hectare. "If you have $1 million worth of wood, it will cost you $1 million to spray it," James said. "The cost is prohibitive."

There may be another solution, much cheaper: budworm tracking. Three summers ago, Canadian Forest Services appealed to the public to help track budworm in eastern Canada. Several hundred "citizen scientists" now lure, trap and count moths in six provinces, as well as Maine, uploading the data on an app and sending the dead moths to Natural Resources' main research laboratory in Fredericton, N.B.

It's a kind of early-warning system, suggesting how and where moths "disperse" and in what number. "The value is two-fold," said James, who's involved in the program at an analytical level, using spatial modeling and genetics. "It helps us understand if budworm populations are increasingly locally, which is a problem, or are migrating from somewhere else, flying in and then dying, which is less of a problem."

In the end, knowing more about the spruce budworm - its life cycle, its behaviour, its migratory patterns - will help make its infestations easier to control. And once they're better understood, plans can be made to cope with the pesky beasts when they arrive.

The urgency is greater than ever, James said.

The study is published in the U.S. journal Ecological Applications.

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As many as 16 people have been killed and many injured when suicide bombers simultaneously blew themselves up in different locations in Nigeria's Borno state on Monday.

The first suicide bomber detonated himself near a mosque, killing seven persons. The second detonated himself in a house killing five persons.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Boko Haram, a militant Islamic group, is known to carry out attacks in Nigeria to impose Sharia, or Islamic law. Borno has been the worst hit state by the insurgency.

There are reports that Boko Haram has been using female suicide bombers to create Islamic Caliphate .

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Tripura-born Roona Begum, who made headlines around the world after her head swelled up to 94 centimetres (circumference) due to hydrocephalus (water on the brain), passed away last night in her home.

She was five-and-a-half years old and was supposed to go for another surgery next month.

After eight surgeries at Gurgaon-based Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), which has been treating her free of cost since 2013, the child could communicate in mono syllables with her parents.

The doctors assured that she will become a normal kid, but the dream to see their daughter go to school did not materialize for daily wager father Abdul Rahman and homemaker mother Fatima Khatun.

"She had little breathing problem but before the child could be shifted to any other hospital for treatment, she was no more," said Khatun.

Only a month back they had gone for Roona's last check-up and in the coming month they were supposed to go again hoping for another miracle.

Rahman said, "Roona's condition was very bad initially but after five surgeries at Delhi's Fortis hospital there was improvement in her condition. Again, during the second visit more surgeries were conducted and there was further improvement but she could not walk, eat anything on her own or speak but the size of her head reduced. Yesterday, she had her food and I went for my work. At around 8 in the evening her mother called me that Roona has some complication and I rushed back and called her but within few minutes she breathed her last."

Nathalie Krantz from Norway along with Jonas Borchgrevink had spearheaded a social campaign via website MyGoodAct to raise fund for Roona in 2013. They collected $62,000 approximately for Roona's treatment.

Though not an uncommon disorder, Roona's case has been one of the rarest since children with this disorder die before being treated.

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U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his heartfelt thoughts and prayers with the seven deceased Navy sailors and their families.

"My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the 7 @USNavy sailors of the #USSFitzgerald and their families. ??http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=101102 .," Trump tweeted.

The seven missing sailors from the USS Fitzgerald were found dead in flooded berthing compartments following the warship's collision with a merchant vessel, the CNN reported.

The Navy's 7th Fleet said searchers found the bodies on Sunday morning, Japan time, after the guided-missile destroyer returned to its base in Japan.

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President Donald Trump is set to finalise a new policy for the Pakistan-Afghan region in which the United States may not sever ties with Pakistan or declare it a state sponsor of terrorism, but it is considering to impose new conditions for entitlement to financial support.

The U.S. Congress conducted many debates and discussions in which many issues were raised. Some officials said Pakistan is still an important partner in Washington's counter-terrorism cooperation plans, while others advocated severing ties with Pakistan, the Dawn has reported.

In one of the debates, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson revealed that the administration was holding an inter-agency review of already dwindling U.S. support and funding to Pakistan.

Some demand that Islamabad should be labelled a state sponsor of terrorism. Others want a cessation of all military and economic assistance to the country. And some are urging the new administration to cancel the status of a non-NATO ally, conferred on Pakistan at the height of the US-led 'war on terrorism.

The U.S. partnership with Pakistan was being discussed in various congressional committees arranged for key administration officials to defend their budget proposals for the next fiscal year.

Washington may also increase drone strikes inside Pakistan, particularly in retaliation to terrorist attacks in Afghanistan.But some officials are emphasizing to retain Islamabad as an important partner in its global war on terrorism.

Pakistan is an ally on counter-terrorism issues and will be essential for bringing the Afghan Taliban to the table for peace talks, the Dawn quoted acting Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Tina Kaidanow, as saying.

"The United States and Pakistan have a close partnership on regional peace, security, prosperity and stability. And we continue to work with the government of Pakistan on many areas including counterterrorism," added the U.S. State Department's spokesperson, Heather Nauert.

Retired U.S. General, Douglas Lute has urged Washington to balance "our demands on Pakistan (with) . our other interests in Pakistankeeping in mind several interests in Pakistan that surpass our interest in dealing with the Afghan Taliban".

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U.S. President Donald Trump is wading into the 5th District special election urging north-central South Carolina residents to vote for Republican Ralph Norman on June 20.

"Ralph Norman, who is running for Congress in SC's 5th District, will be a fantastic help to me in cutting taxes, and getting great border security and healthcare. #VoteRalphNorman tomorrow!," Trump tweeted.

He further said, "Karen Handel's opponent in #GA06 can't even vote in the district he wants to represent because he doesn't even live there! He wants to raise taxes and kill healthcare. On Tuesday, #VoteKarenHandel."

Trump's criticism of Democrat Jon Ossoff comes on the eve of the closely watched special election in Georgia to fill the seat vacated by Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price.

Before the first round of voting for the seat in April, Trump encouraged Republicans to "get out and vote," noting that Ossoff does not live in the district.

Handel and Ossoff will face off on Tuesday in the special election after several months of campaigning.

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At least two Navy sailors were killed and three others wounded when their vehicle was attacked in the Jiwani area of Balochistan's Gwadar district.

The sailors were transporting iftar items during a routine run from Jiwani city when their vehicle was ambushed by four assailants on two motorbikes, the Dawn reported.

The assailants opened fire on the vehicle indiscriminately, leaving one man killed and five wounded.

A Navy spokesperson, however, said that three personnel had been injured.

The official said that the five wounded were shifted to Karachi for medical treatment, adding that one of the wounded succumbed to his injuries, bringing the death toll to two.

Security was tightened after the incident and a search operation was launched in the area to apprehend those involved in the attack.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri condemned the incident and directed the levies and police to submit a report regarding the attack.

"We will not bow down before the terrorists," Zehri said in his statement.

There has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

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A U.S. plane has shot down a Syrian military aircraft that dropped bombs near U.S.-backed fighters in Syria.

The U.S. central command issued a statement saying the plane was downed "in collective self-defence of coalition-partnered forces", which were identified as fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces near Tabqa, the Guardian reported.

The Syrian army earlier said that the U.S.-led coalition shot down one of its planes during a combat mission against Islamic State militants.

The United States is leading an alliance in the fight against Islamic State in Syria.

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A teenage Muslim girl was assaulted and killed after leaving a Virginia mosque in a suspected hate crime on Sunday.

The police found her remains yesterday after the 17-year-old, identified as Nabra Hassanen, went missing after leaving the mosque in the Sterling area.

A 22-year-old man, Darwin Martinez Torres of Sterling, has been charged with murder in connection with the case, according to a report by the Washington Post.

According to the report, Hassanen along with some other teens was walking back from breakfast at IHOP early Sunday when they were confronted by a motorist.

All the teens ran to the mosque, the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) in Sterling, where the group reported that the girl had been left behind, said Deputy Aleksandra Kowalski, a spokeswoman for the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.

"Immediately thereafter, the ADAMS' personnel notified both Loudoun County and Fairfax County authorities who immediately began an extensive search to locate the missing girl," the mosque said in a statement.

After hours-long search the girl's remains were found about 3 p.m. on Sunday. During the search, an officer spotted a motorist driving suspiciously in the area and arrested Torres, police said.

The girl's mother said detectives told her that she was struck with a metal bat.

A possible hate-crime motivation is among the things authorities are investigating, police said.

The chief medical examiner's office is yet to confirm the identity and manner of death even though the police believe it to be of the girl.

Shoyeb Hassan, the co-chair of ADAMS, said that during the last 10 days of Ramadan, the mosque has extra prayers at midnight and 2 a.m., and members frequently go to McDonald's or the 24-hour IHOP to eat before they start their fast at sunrise, as Nabra and her friends were doing.

Meanwhile Sunday night, a van struck a crowd Muslim worshippers in London as they departed late-night prayers from Finsbury Park mosque.

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A subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation and world's leading home appliance company Whirlpool of India has unveiled India's first Built-in induction ovens.

Designed and manufactured in Europe, this advanced range of built-in ovens brings the best in European designs and technology to its Indian customers.

The exceptional range of built-in induction ovens is manufactured with Whirlpool's 6th Sense + Induction technology which works by creating a magnetic field in induction shelf to heat food. One can use the induction cooking feature by simply choosing the induction cooking mode and food types.

Its built-in intelligent feature will calculate the cooking time itself. Not only this, another exotic feature of this built-in induction oven is that it can also function as a Traditional oven. Remove the induction shelf and your traditional oven is ready to cook the most scrumptious meal for you and your family.

Adding wings to its innovative technology are its smart features that offer attributes like 25 percent of faster cooking and wide variety of cooking options like roasting, grilling, steaming and baking when compared to any other traditional oven.

Whirlpool's current offering of induction cooking is energy-efficient and can cook food in half the time. This new method of cooking can save up to 30 percent of energy by heating food directly on the induction tray and helps chef in cooking meals faster.

"This astonishing range of built-in induction oven has been introduced in India considering the needs of millennial of the country. Its elegant European design represents a delightful and attractive enhancement for the Indian modern kitchen and its unique 6th Sense + Induction oven technology is at par in saving both time and energy," said head- new unit Whirlpool of India, Natarajan A.

"We have brought in India the best of our European technology to provide foremost solutions for saving energy, time and money for our Indian customers. We are excited in bringing the built-in + induction oven in India and we hope that our Indian buyers will make most of it," added Natarajan A.

This innovative blend of Induction + built-in oven is priced at Rs.1, 09,000 in India and is available across all the Whirlpool online and offline stores.

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Bank of Maharashtra declined 3.08% to Rs 29.90 at 10:45 IST on BSE after the bank said that the Reserve Bank of India initiated prompt corrective action for the bank in view of high net non performing assets.

The announcement was made on Saturday, 17 June 2017.

Meanwhile, the S&P Sensex was up 157.22 points, 0.51% at 31,208.16. The S&P BSE Mid-cap index was up 20.66 points or 0.14% at 14,827.99.

On the BSE, 37,021 shares were traded on the counter so far as against the average daily volumes of 83,629 shares in the past one quarter. The stock had hit a high of Rs 30.50 and a low of Rs 29.60 so far during the day.

The stock had hit a 52-week high of Rs 40.70 on 4 May 2017 and a 52-week low of Rs 25 on 9 November 2016.

The stock had underperformed the market over the past one month till 16 June 2017, falling 9% compared with 1.55% rise in the Sensex. The scrip had also underperformed the market in past one quarter, dropping 4.49% as against Sensex's 4.97% gains. The scrip had also underperformed the market in past one year, gaining 0.33% as against Sensex's 17.08% gains.

The mid-cap bank has equity capital of Rs 1168.33 crore. Face value per share is Rs 10.

Bank of Maharashtra said that the action will not have any material impact on the performance of the bank and it will contribute to improve the internal controls of the bank and improvement in its asset quality, profitability and efficiency.

The bank's ratio of gross NPAs to gross advances stood at 16.93% as on 31 March 2017 as against 9.34% as on 31 March 2016. The ratio of net NPAs to net advances stood at 11.76% as on 31 March 2017 as against 6.35% as on 31 March 2016.

Bank of Maharashtra reported net loss of Rs 455.45 crore in Q4 March 2017 compared with net loss of Rs 119.84 crore in Q4 March 2016. Total income fell 5.9% to Rs 3354.80 crore in Q4 March 2017 over Q4 March 2016.

The Government of India (GoI) held 81.61% stake in Bank of Maharashtra (as per the shareholding pattern as on 31 March 2017).

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With effect from 18 June 2017

Gujarat Terce Laboratories announced that the Company's Company Secretary and Compliance officer Priyanka Jitendrakumar Bakhtyarpuri has resigned and the Board has approved the same with effect from 18 June 2017. Accordingly, she ceases as Compliance officer of the Company.

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ASSOCHAM has urged Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi to remind President Donald Trump that If Indian IT firms have got a good foothold in the US, American top notch firms like Facebook, Google, Microsoft and Apple, Coke and Pepsi are getting quite a liberal market access in India without any restrictions.

"In a technology driven and free market global economy, governed by rule-based multilateral World Trade Organisation, major trading partners should abstain from unilateral restrictions on flow of trade in goods and services. After all, the global economy is inter-dependent," the chamber said, expressing concern over a host of restrictions on visa for Indian IT professionals in the US.

"It is a matter of concern that in the name of America First, restrictions are sought to be slapped on Indian IT firms, which are creating jobs in the US as well. Moreover, the software solutions the Indian firms develop for the world market are built around the platforms and tools of the American technology majors. Such a thing should be conveyed to the American President when our Prime Minister meets him during his impending visit to the US", the ASSOCHAM Secretary General Mr D S Rawat said.

It said India is among the fastest growing economies in the world, riding on the young consumers ever willing to spend on the global brands without restrictions from the government. Besides, the country is on a major digitization drive, throwing a world of opportunities to the likes Facebook, Google, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter. Several of Indian infrastructure projects involving traffic and ticketing, customer relationship management, billing and the telecom backbone is running on combination of several hardware-software tools, platform and solutions, bulk of which is sourced from the US companies. Nobody in India, including our political leadership, grudges this.

Thus, India is a truly an open and globally -integrated economy. This is what must be told to the new US administration, and there is no need for India to play on a defensive wicket.

The ASSOCHAM said even in the IT services , it is not only the Indian firms like TCS and Infosys which are outsourcing to the American clients but scores of American companies which have set up huge centres in cities like Pune, Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Chennai and Hyderabad for their global clients. Yes, they do create jobs for Indians, but also repatriate billions of dollars as profits and India is fine with it. Thus, it is absolutely unfair to target Indian firms which are facing increasing pressure in the US through different non-trade measures like visa fee and other unrelated levies.

With its expanding aviation market, India is a huge market for the American and European aircraft makers, besides offering opportunities in the financials. The market access has been given liberally even in agriculture.

It is thus a matter of concern that in the name of America First, restrictions are sought to be slapped on Indian IT firms, which are creating jobs in the US as well. Moreover, the software solutions the Indian firms develop for the world market are built around the platforms and tools of the American technology majors. Such a thing should be conveyed to the American President when our Prime Minister meets him during his impending visit to the US", Mr Rawat said.

India runs its overall trade gap of over USD 105 billion in goods alone with rest of the world, being liberal with its imports which aggregated USD 380 billion in 2016-17 while exports were about USD 275 billion. We give much more market access to the world than we enjoy elsewhere, the chamber said, adding the US corporates are immensely benefiting by doing business with India and Indian companies and that must be conveyed to the US administration.

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NTPC rose 0.53% to Rs 161.10 at 9:45 IST on BSE after the company said it commissioned 225 megawatts out of 250 MW of its Mandsaur solar power project in Madhya Pradesh.

The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 166.21 points or 0.54% at 31,222.61.

On the BSE, 13,837 shares were traded on the counter so far as against the average daily volumes of 3.52 lakh shares in the past one quarter. The stock had hit a high of Rs 161.60 and a low of Rs 160.60 so far during the day.

The stock had hit a 52-week high of Rs 177.80 on 27 January 2017 and a 52-week low of Rs 139.70 on 15 July 2016.

The stock had underperformed the market over the past one month till 16 June 2017, rising 0.31% compared with 1.55% rise in the Sensex. The scrip had also underperformed the market in past one quarter, dropping 0.47% as against Sensex's 4.97% gains. The scrip had underperformed the market in past one year, gaining 5.6% as against Sensex's 17.08% gains.

The large-cap company has equity capital of Rs 8245.46 crore. Face value per share is Rs 10.

NTPC said that with this commissioning, the installed capacity of NTPC's solar power projects has become 845 megawatts (MW). The total installed capacity of NTPC on standalone basis has become 44,419 MW and that of NTPC group has become 51,635 MW.

On 2 June 2017, NTPC had commissioned 117 MW out of 250 MW of Mandsaur Solar Power Project.

NTPC's net profit declined 25.5% to Rs 2079.40 crore on 11.4% rise in net sales to Rs 20416.67 crore in Q4 March 2017 over Q4 March 2016.

NTPC, India's largest power company, has presence in the entire value chain of power generation business. The government of India held 69.75% stake in the firm as on 31 March 2017, as per the shareholding pattern.

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Held on 19 June 2017

Toyam Industries announced that the Board of directors of the Company at its meeting held on 19 June 2017 transacted the following -

Appointment of William Joseph Daly as Whole Time Director.

Appointment of Sajjad Rajabali Jaffer as Additional Director under Executive Category

Approved establishing a subsidiary in Dubai which will be responsible for launching and functioning of KIL Arena in Dubai and operations of ancillary businesses like KIL Merchandise, KIL Food & Beverages and KIL Gaming

Opening of KIL Arena in Dubai

Approved resignation of Mayank Lashkari from post of Additionl Director.

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Board to decide on 24 June 2017

Sellwin Traders plans to delist its shares from Calcutta Stock Exchange. The board of the company will consider the proposal on 24 June 2017.

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Adoption of ECBC could lead to 30%-50% energy savings by commercial buildings

Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines launched the Energy Conservation Building Code 2017 (ECBC 2017). Developed by Ministry of Power and Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), ECBC 2017 prescribes the energy performance standards for new commercial buildings to be constructed across India.

The updated version of ECBC provides current as well as futuristic advancements in building technology to further reduce building energy consumption and promote low-carbon growth. ECBC 2017 sets parameters for builders, designers and architects to integrate renewable energy sources in building design with the inclusion of passive design strategies. The code aims to optimise energy savings with the comfort levels for occupants, and prefers life-cycle cost effectiveness to achieve energy neutrality in commercial buildings.

In his address , Shri Goyal, said, I would like to dedicate today ECBC Code 2017 to all the young children of India to the future of India for whose sake , it is incumbent on all of us to efficiently utilize every bit of resource , ensure implement such progressive and forward looking programmes of Government very diligently and ensure that we will leave behind for next generation a better world then what we inherited .

Shri Pradeep Kumar Pujari, Secretary, Power, stated that ECBC 2017 will give clear direction and have criteria for new buildings to be Super ECBC: The new code reflects current and futuristic advancements in building technology, market changes, and energy demand scenario of the country, setting the benchmark for Indian buildings to be amongst some of the most efficient globally.

In order for a building to be considered ECBC-compliant, it would need to demonstrate minimum energy savings of 25%. Additional improvements in energy efficiency performance would enable the new buildings to achieve higher grades like ECBC Plus or Super ECBC status leading to further energy savings of 35% and 50%, respectively.

With the adoption of ECBC 2017 for new commercial building construction throughout the country, it is estimated to achieve a 50% reduction in energy use by 2030. This will translate to energy savings of about 300 Billion Units by 2030 and peak demand reduction of over 15 GW in a year. This will be equivalent to expenditure savings of Rs 35,000 crore and 250 million tonnes of CO2 reduction.

ECBC 2017 was developed by BEE with technical support from United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the U.S.-India bilateral Partnership to Advance Clean Energy - Deployment Technical Assistance (PACE-D TA) Program.

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At 2017 Frost & Sullivan India Digital Transformation Awards

Tata Communications received top honors at the 2017 Frost & Sullivan India Digital Transformation Awards, with four awards in the Enterprise Telecom Services category and one award in the Enterprise Infrastructure category. Tata Communications took centerstage at the awards ceremony and received four Service Provider of the Year awards for: (1) Enterprise Data (2) Hosted Contact Center (3) Enterprise Telecom - Large Enterprise Segment, and (4) Third Party Datacenter. It also won New Product/Service Innovation Award for IoT - a new award category this year.

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Tata Steel rose 1.77% to Rs 511 at 9:25 IST on BSE after the company announced that it proposes to sell 8.36 crore shares of face value of Rs 2 each of Tata Motors to Tata Sons.

The announcement was made on Saturday, 17 June 2017.

Shares of Tata Motors declined 0.09% to Rs 455.10.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 137.68 points or 0.44% at 31,194.08.

On the BSE, 43,890 shares were traded on the counter so far of Tata Steel as against the average daily volumes of 8.08 lakh shares in the past one quarter. The stock had hit a high of Rs 512.50 and a low of Rs 509 so far during the day.

Tata Steel said that the transaction is expected to be executed on or after 23 June 2017 at or around the prevailing price on the date of proposed sale, subject to no material market movements in price since the date of this disclosure.

Tata Sons is the promoter of the major operating Tata companies and holds significant shareholdings in these companies. Tata companies are commonly referred to as the Tata group and the Chairman of Tata Sons as Chairman of the Tata group.

About 66% of the equity capital of Tata Sons is held by philanthropic trusts endowed by members of the Tata family. The largest of these trusts are the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, which were created by the sons of Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the founder of the group.

Tata Steel held 2.9% stake while Tata Sons held 28.71% stake in Tata Motors, as per the shareholding pattern as on 31 March 2017.

Tata Steel reported consolidated net loss of Rs 1168.02 crore in Q4 March 2017, compared with net loss of Rs 3041.88 crore in Q4 March 2016. The consolidated net sales rose 29.6% to Rs 33424.09 crore in Q4 March 2017 over Q4 March 2016.

Tata Steel is the world's second-most geographically-diversified steel producer, with operations in 26 countries and commercial presence in over 50 countries.

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Tata Steel announced that it proposes to sell 8.36 crore shares of face value of Rs 2 each of Tata Motors to Tata Sons. The transaction is expected to be executed on or after 23 June 2017 at or around the prevailing price on the date of proposed sale, subject to no material market movements in price since the date of this disclosure. The announcement was made on Saturday, 17 June 2017.

POWERGRID Warora Transmission, a 100% subsidiary of Power Grid Corporation of India, secured through Tariff Based Competitive Bidding, has successfully completed an element Gadarwara STPS - Jabalpur Pool 765 kV D/C transmission line and declared the element for commercial operation on 31 May 2017. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories announced that the audit of its Formulations Srikakulam Plant (SEZ) Unit I, Andhra Pradesh, by the USFDA, has been completed on 16 June 2017. The company has been issued a Form 483 with one observation. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

IndusInd Bank has acquired 75 lakh shares of Rs 10 each, pursuant to exercise of conversion option on 'Optionally Convertible Redeemable Preference Shares', i.e., conversion of each Optionally Convertible Preference Share held by the bank into 10 shares of Kesoram Industries at a price of Rs.120 per share. The announcement was made on Saturday, 17 June 2017.

Axis Bank has revised Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) rates in the short tenors. The 1 year MCLR stands unchanged at 8.25%. New rates are effective from 17 June 2017. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

NTPC has commissioned 225 megawatts (MW) out of 250 MW of Mandsaur Solar Power Project of NTPC. With this, the installed capacity of NTPC's solar power projects has become 845 MW. The total installed capacity of NTPC on standalone basis has become 44419 MW and that of NTPC group has become 51635 MW. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

MSPL Steel & Power said that the board of directors of the company approved conversion of 6% redeemable non-cumulative preference shares to equity shares owing to the Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets.

The board also approved implementation of Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets (S4A Scheme) and conversion of loan by lenders into equity shares/optionally convertible debentures (OCDs) of the company and also issue and allot pursuant to implementation of the Reserve Bank of India S4A Scheme for the company. The announcement was made on Sunday, 18 June 2017.

Wheels India and Topy Industries, Japan have reached an agreement regarding a strategic partnership in the passenger car steel wheels business in India, whereby Topy will invest a 26% stake in WIL Car Wheels, a wholly owned subsidiary of Wheels India. The investment will be made through new issue of equity shares by WCWL to Topy. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

WCWL was set by WIL to carry on the passenger car steel wheel business in India. WIL has entered into agreements to transfer its entire passenger car steel wheel business carried out at its plants in Padi, Chennai and Bawal, Haryana, on slump sale basis, to the new company.

Nucleus Software Exports announced that the buyback committee approved share buy-back of upto 33.43 lakh fully paid-up equity shares under the buyback offer, representing 10.32% of the total paid-up equity share capital of the company at final buyback price of Rs 350 per share for an aggregate amount not exceeding Rs 117 crore which is 24.83% of the paid-up equity share capital and free reserves of the company for the Financial Year ended 31 March 2017. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

HIL said that the company is holding 33% stake in 'Supercor Industries Limited', Nigeria as a joint venture (JV) between the company and other shareholders including State Govt. of Bauchi and the said company is not in a position to prepare any accounts/management accounts FY 2016-17 due to cash crisis situation which forced them to stop their operations since November 2015. The company also initiated winding up petition to expedite the process.

Further, as per the provisions of Regulation 33 of Listing Regulations, the company has decided to opt for submission of standalone quarterly and yearly results for FY 2018 in view of the above reasons. Apart from the above joint venture, company does not have any other joint ventures or subsidiaries or associates companies and hence the company will not prepare any consolidated accounts. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

Shriram Transport Finance Company announced that the allotment committee non-convertible debentures (NCDs) of the company approved and allotted 1,000 secured redeemable, rated, listed NCDs of face value of Rs 10 lakh each, aggregating to Rs 100 crore on private placement basis. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 16 June 2017.

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At least 21 people were killed in multiple suicide attacks in Nigeria's north-eastern state of Borno, local officials said on Monday.

A local police spokesman said 17 people, including five female suicide bombers who carried out the attacks on late Sunday, were confirmed dead.

Another four died in hospital on Monday, Xinhua news agency quoted the National Emergency Management Agency as saying.

The attackers struck near a camp of the Internally Displaced Persons at Kofa Village, located eight kilometres away from Maiduguri city, the capital of restive Borno State.

Terror group Boko Haram was suspected to be behind the blasts.

Boko Haram had been blamed for the deaths of more than 20,000 people and displacing of 2.3 million others in Nigeria since their insurgency started in 2009.

--IANS

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The London police on Monday upgraded to 79 the tally of those believed to have died in an apartment block inferno, although only five victims had been formally identified so far.

Commander Stuart Cundy said the number could change as investigators were still not certain who all were there in the Grenfell Tower, in west London, when an intense fire tore through the 24-storey building, Efe news reported.

"Over the last 48 hours, our investigators have been working tirelessly working with families to establish just how many we believe are missing from Grenfell Tower," he said.

Cundy said 79 people were missing, presumed dead, but it was very likely that due to the intensity of the conflagration many victims would never be formally identified.

The fire began early Wednesday and spread rapidly through the 24-storey block that housed hundreds of people.

Rescue efforts have been slow as the building was devastated by flames and many areas were not able to be accessed safely.

The police and the firefighting service have been working to stabilise parts of the structure in order to allow emergency services to continue the search for victims.

Residents had many times raised the alarm that the building was not safe and was liable to be heavily affected by a fire, however, local authorities did not act on the complaints.

The building was last year fitted with insulating cladding, but the material used is now believed to have been highly flammable and could have further inflamed the fire, helping it spread alarmingly fast throughout the building.

--IANS

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Eighty-five per cent of diabetics see amputations in their lifetime due to lack of appropriate treatment, data released during a national conference on diabetics here has revealed.

Currently 15 per cent of of India's diabetic population suffers from ulcers in their lifetime, the conference attended by over 50 eminent surgeons here was told.

Pioneers in wound management such as Madhuri Gore and Dr Sitaram Prasad were among the delegates who attended the national conference held at Zen hospital on Sunday.

The doctors called for a better wound healing health care in the hospitals of the country.

"Around the globe, about 415 million people are diabetic. However, India has the world's second largest diabetic population at 69 million. Almost 15 per cent of diabetics develop an ulcer in their lifetime," said Roy Patankar, Director at Zen Hospital.

Stating that treatment of wounds is a challenge as the physicians or surgeons needs to assess wounds accurately, the doctors also urged hospitals for a better recognition of wound related problems and provide interventions such that morbidity reduces.

"With advanced technology, newer wound care products are helping surgeons to provide optimal benefits to patients. The wound update conference included wound classification and evaluation, wound healing and scar formation. Chronic wounds, infections and wound closure or therapy along with case studies were a part of the panel discussion and conference," said a joint statement issued by the surgeons at the conference.

As a part of the national faculty, Somprakash Basu and Sunil Kari discussed chronic wounds and wound therapy along with a few case studies. Seven other speakers were a part of the panel discussion.

--IANS

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In the inaugural edition of Sankarabharanam Awards, actors Aamir Khan, Junior NTR and Dhanush have won top laurels, the organisers announced on Monday.

The award ceremony will take place here on Tuesday.

Sankarabharanam Awards, formed in honour of filmmaker K. Vishwanath by actress Tulasi, will honour winners from five film industries which include artists from Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi.

Explaining why the need to honour artists from five industries, Tulasi told IANS: "My guru and mentor Dadasaheb Phalke awardee, K Viswanath has worked with both the northern and southern industries in his illustrious career. He stands for the unity of our cinema, a beautiful aesthetic medium that knows no boundaries of geography or language."

She added that though they will be awarding a much longer list of technicians and artists from Telugu cinema, "We have four categories across industries this year. This is because we had less time to organise the event this year. From next year, we will plan much in advance with a more uniform list."

Tulasi also confirmed Aamir Khan and Alia Bhatt have won Best Actor award for their respective performances in "Dangal" and "Udta Punjab".

Junior NTR has bagged Best Actor (male) for his performance in "Janatha Garage".

Dhanush won the Best Director award for his Tamil directorial debut "Pa Pandi".

Actor Dulquer Salmaan won the Best Actor (male) award for his performance in Malayalam film "Oru Vadakkan Selfie".

--IANS

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday welcomed the BJP's decision to name Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA candidate for the Presidential election, terming it a huge honour for the Dalit community.

Adityanath said that by selecting Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah had also honoured the 22 crore people of Uttar Pradesh.

"This is a huge honour for the Dalit community and the people of Uttar Pradesh," Adityanath told the media at his official residence here and appealed to the leaders of all political parties to support Kovind's candidature.

"It is a matter of great pleasure for all of us that Ram Nath Kovind ji is our Presidential candidate...I on behalf of the people of the state would like to felicitate Modi ji and Amit Shah for the selection," he said, adding Kovind is fit to be the next President

--IANS

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Upset due to debt burden and mounting pressure from moneylenders, a 54-year-old farmer committed suicide on Monday in a village in Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's home district Sehore.

Bansi Lal, 54, committed suicide by hanging himself at his home in Jamunia Khurd village, falling under the jurisdiction of Doraha police station, police said.

"Bansi Lal had nine acres of land. He owed Rs 9 lakh to the banks as well as moneylenders, and that is why he committed suicide," said his relatives.

"The exact reason is not known yet. It will be clear only after the investigation whether he (Bansi Lal) committed suicide due to debt burden," Munna Lal Chowdhary, the officer in-charge of Doraha police station, told IANS.

This is the 12th farmer suicide in the state in the last eight days and the fourth in Chouhan's home district Sehore.

A few days ago, Dulichandra, a farmer who was in debt of Rs 5 lakh, committed suicide in Jajna village in Sehore district.

Khaaju Khan, 75, of Bapcha Kala village and Mukesh Yadav, 23, the owner of one and a half acre land in Lachaur village in Sehore's Narsullaganj committed suicide earlier.

The farmers in Madhya Pradesh staged a protest from June 1 to 10 demanding loan waiver and remunerative prices for their produce.

Five farmers were killed in police firing during the protest in Mandsaur district on June 6 while another succumbed to his injuries later.

--IANS

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News has been received here about the death of another Kerala resident who had gone to Afghanistan to join the Islamic State terror group, an intelligence official said on Monday.

The news about the death of Sajeer M. Abdullah and a picture of his body was received on the mobile of a man, whose relative is among the 21 Keralites who left their homes here to join the IS, said the official of the Kerala Police's intelligence unit.

However there was no information about time and cause of Abdullah's death.

An intelligence official, who did not wish to be identified, told IANS that the news and picture came to the same person who received reports about the death of three others of this group during the course of this year.

"Beyond this, there are no other details... we have done what we normally do when we get these types of reports," said the official.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan last year had informed the state assembly that 21 people, including children, were missing - 17 persons from Kasargode district and four from Palakkad.

--IANS

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Veteran actor Anupam Kher met Hollywood star Robert De Niro, with whom he starred in "Silver Linings Playbook", over lunch here.

Anupam on Monday took to Twitter to share a string of photographs from De Niro's home. The 62-year-old actor is seen wearing a white shirt and beige pants, while the Hollywood star donned a mint green t-shirt and pants.

"When god of acting Robert De Niro invites you for lunch on Fathers Day to his house, you can't eat, because your heart is in your mouth," Anupam captioned the image.

Anupam also said he was feeling honoured.

"And when god of acting Robert De Niro takes a picture where he is doing the same gesture that you are doing, it is time to faint. What an honour," he wrote.

"Silver Linings Playbook", a romantic comedy-drama film written and directed by David O Russell, released in 2012. The film also had Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Jacki Weaver, Chris Tucker and Julia Stiles in supporting roles.

--IANS

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A 40-year-old man was charged after police seized a Nazi machine gun during a traffic stop in Australia's New South Wales state, the media reported on Monday.

Police found the MP40 submachine gun after they pulled over a vehicle on the Central Coast on Sunday night, reports the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Police seized a bag containing the gun, a magazine and 60 rounds of ammunition. The gun's barrel was missing.

The gun appeared to be in working order.

Shane Casey, senior curator at the Australian War Memorial, said the weapon was used extensively by the German army in the Second World War.

"It's a very robust weapon and was also souvenired during the war by Allied soldiers," he told the ABC.

Casey said the weapon was collectible.

The weapon will undergo a forensic examination to determine if it was linked to any shooting incidents.

--IANS

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Terror suspects in Australia's Victoria state could be subject to strict curfew and GPS tracking, it was announced on Monday.

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews announced that an independent expert panel had been established to advise how the state's anti- laws could be strengthened, Xinhua news agency reported.

The panel, chaired by former Victoria Police Commissioner Ken Lay, was established after terrorist Yacqub Khayre killed a man and took a woman hostage in Melbourne earlier this month.

Andrews said the panel had been told that nothing was off-limits in the fight against terrorism, including a curfew and GPS tracking of suspects.

The Victorian justice system has drawn criticism in June due to the decision by the parole board to let Khayre out of prison where he was serving time for violent offences in December 2016.

--IANS

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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday said his Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will support NDA's presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind.

His announcement came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Patnaik over telephone this evening.

"The Prime Minister spoke to me about the candidature of Ramnath Kovind as Presidential nominee. He sought the support of the BJD in this regard.

"As you all know, last time when the Presidential elections happened, BJD had proposed the name of P.A. Sangma, an eminent leader from the tribal community. Based on the request of BJD, many parties including the BJP had supported his nomination," said Patnaik.

Against this backdrop and the fact that Kovind is an eminent lawyer belonging to the Scheduled Caste community, after discussing with the senior party leaders, BJD had decided to support his candidature, he added.

He said the Office of the President of India is above political considerations and BJD wants to keep it above .

Earlier on Monday, Patnaik said that his BJD will decide on Kovind after discussion between senior party leaders.

--IANS

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Accusing the BJP of unilaterally deciding its presidential candidate, the Left parties on Monday said there was no more scope for discussion with the ruling party and the issue would now be decided among opposition.

Referring to Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu reaching out to opposition parties earlier over the presidential polls, both CPI-M and CPI said they did not expect a "unilateral" decision from the BJP.

"During the meeting (with Naidu and Rajnath), they wanted a consensus but did not come up with a name. They said they will get back to us with a name later.

"Now that they have made the decision unilaterally, there is no more scope for discussion with them," Communist Party of India-Marxist General Secretary Sitaram Yechury told the media here.

Refusing to comment on NDA nominee Ram Nath Kovind, Yechury said the opposition parties will decide their strategy during the June 22 meeting to be chaired by Congress President Sonia Gandhi.

Asked if the opposition parties will field a candidate against Kovind, Yechury replied: "Except Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, never has a president been elected without a contest."

Communist Party of India leader D. Raja said the BJP's announcement was "non-transparent".

"When Rajnath and Naidu called us to discuss candidates for presidential elections, they said they have no names in mind and wanted to know our suggestions.

"They told us that they will consider our suggestions but have now announced their candidate unilaterally in a non-transparent manner," said Raja.

"We will discuss within our party and would consult other opposition parties and will arrive at a collective decision as early as possible," he added.

--IANS

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Without naming Pakistan or any other nation, Foreign Ministers of BRICS countries on Monday asked the countries accused of supporting to stop financing terrorists and their activities after India raised the issue at the meeting of the five-member bloc here.

In a joint media note, the Foreign Ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, deplored "the continued terrorist attacks, including in some BRICS countries" and condemned " in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever".

The ministers reaffirmed the solidarity and resolve of the BRICS nations in the fight against and called upon the international community to establish a broad international counter-terrorism coalition and to support the UN's coordinating role in international counter-terrorism cooperation.

"They recall the responsibility of all states to prevent financing of terrorist networks and terrorist actions from their territories," the note said.

Earlier India, represented by Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh said the five-nation bloc needed to cooperate on counter-terror measures.

India has been urging the UN to put sanctions against and designate as an international terrorist Pakistan-based terrorist leader Masood Azhar, accused of masterminding several terror attacks in India, including the January 2016 strike on a military base in Punjab that killed at least seven security personnel.

But the Indian move has been blocked by China that holds a veto in the UN Security Council.

The Foreign Ministers also reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN and the Security Council to make it "more representative, effective and efficient and increase the representation of the developing countries so that it can adequately respond to global challenges".

"China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN."

--IANS

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Police were rushed to a US vacation resort after a bystander livestreamed a shooting incident on Facebook Live in which several people were injured.

The injured were being treated at South Carolina hospitals after a gunman opened fire at Myrtle Beach, CBS News reported on Sunday.

According to Myrtle Beach Police, a fight broke out and one of the belligerents pulled a gun and fired.

Meanwhile, a bystander livestreamed the incident that alerted the police.

An armed security officer fired at the gunman but he carjacked a vehicle and got away from the scene. The police later arrested the attacker.

"Footage of the violent incident remained online as of Sunday afternoon. A representative for Facebook did not immediately respond to CBS News' request for comment," the rpeort added.

There have been several cases of livestreaming shooting incidents on Facebook in the recent past.

--IANS

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami on Monday told the state assembly that a case has been registered against the persons who allegedly indulged in bribing voters in the R.K. Nagar by-elections.

Palaniswami said the case has been registered as per the Election Commission's directive.

He was responding to the DMK members who raised the issue about the poll panel's directive to the Returning Officer of R.K. Nagar assembly constituency to register a First Information Report (FIR) against Palaniswami, four Ministers and the AIADMK candidate T.T.V.Dinakaran.

However, Palaniswami did not disclose the name of the persons against whom the FIR was registered.

Not satisfied with the reply, the DMK members walked out of the house and were followed by Congress lawmakers.

DMK leader M.K. Stalin on Sunday flayed the "delay in filing an Election Commission recommended" criminal case against Palaniswami and the Ministers.

PMK leader S. Ramadoss demanded the resignation of Palaniswami and the Ministers under a cloud so that the investigation in the case could progress in a proper fashion.

The Election Commission had ordered the Returning Officer of the R.K. Nagar assembly constituency where the by-election was scheduled to be held but was later cancelled to file an FIR against Palaniswami, four Ministers and party candidate Dinakaran on the charge of attempting to bribe voters, Stalin said in a statement.

He said the poll panel had also sent a 34-page report by the Income Tax Department to the state Chief Electoral Officer and the Chief Secretary.

He said the Election Commission's order for lodging a police complaint was obtained from the poll panel by an applicant under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

Stalin said the delay in registering a complaint was nothing but disrespect to the Election Commission, a constitutional body.

Asked by IANS on Sunday whether a FIR was lodged against Palaniswami and others as directed by the Election Commission, CEO Rajesh Lakhani was evasive.

He said over 30 complaints have been registered by police for alleged electoral malpractices.

Ahead of the by-election to the R.K. Nagar constituency, the Income Tax Department had raided the residences and business premises of Health Minister C. Vijayabaskar, his relatives as well as persons close to him and his business associates.

An Income Tax official then told IANS that they had seized cash totalling Rs 5.5 crore besides documents showing that Rs 89 crore changed hands in R.K. Nagar.

Subsequently, the Election Commission cancelled the by-election for the seat that fell vacant after the death of then Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in December 2016.

--IANS

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The Delhi government on Monday accused the central government of using the "caged parrot" CBI to "silence dissenters".

The remarks came after a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team questioned Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain's wife in connection with allegations of money laundering.

"Another day, another raid! CBI now raids Minister Jain 's residence. Centre trying to silence dissenters via caged parrot," Delhi government spokesperson Arunoday Prakash tweeted.

"BJP model: You make Mohalla Clinics, save money in projects, (provide) free medicines, tests and surgeries... We (the BJP) will keep troubling you with CBI, IT (Income Tax department), ED (Enforcement Directorate)," he added.

In April, the CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry against Jain in connection with Rs 4.63 crore of money laundering in 2015-16. The CBI had questioned the minister on June 1 and 2.

Last week, the CBI visited Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's residence regarding alleged irregularities in a 'Talk to AK' social media campaign, prompting strong AAP reactions against the "CBI raid".

The CBI denied there was any raid or search at Sisodia's residence and said a team of officers went there to record his statement.

--IANS

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Accusing the BJP of unilateralism, the Congress on Monday said opposition parties will meet on Thursday and decide their strategy regarding the Presidential polls.

The Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, refused to go into the merits and demerits of the NDA candidate, Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, announced by BJP President Amit Shah earlier in the day.

Azad also did not say whether or not the opposition will field a candidate for the July 17 contest.

"So far as the NDA nominee is concerned, the Congress has nothing to say on the merits or demerits. All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the Presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met recently," Azad said.

He said the opposition did not expect this "unilateral" decision by the BJP to name Kovind.

"When (Home Minister) Rajnath Singh and (Information and Broadcasting Minister M.) Venkaiah Naidu met (Congress President) Sonia Gandhi, we had expected some names from them for discussion. But they gave no names. We had full hope that before announcing they would discuss some names.

"Yes, they did inform us but only after they had decided on the name."

He said the meetings with opposition parties was a formality.

"The only thing I would like to say is that we expected that before taking the final decision on a candidate, they will come back to us and other opposition parties.

"The opposition parties were given to understand that they will be taken into confidence. It is the BJP's sweet will and we cannot help that."

Azad said all leaders in the opposition had agreed to attend the June 22 meeting to be chaired by Sonia Gandhi to take a final decision on the President's election.

--IANS

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Playing the Dalit card, the BJP on Monday threw a surprise by nominating Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA choice for the President's post, stunning the opposition which accused the ruling party of unilateralism.

Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah announced the name of Kovind, 71, after a nearly two-hour meeting of the BJP parliamentary board attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others, ending all suspense about the NDA's candidature for the top constitutional post.

Though the main opposition parties did not criticise Kovind, who emerged as a dark horse, they kept their cards close to the chest on whether they would back him.

Barring the TRS and the BJD which expressed support to Kovind, all other non-BJP parties accused the ruling party of unilateralism and will meet here on Thursday to finalise their strategy for the July 17 battle.

Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu insisted that all parties were consulted.

On his part, the soft-spoken Kovind said he would appeal to all political parties and members of the electoral college to back him.

"We have decided that Ram Nath Kovind will be the NDA Presidential candidate," Shah told the media, adding he was likely to file his nomination on Friday.

Modi said Kovind would make an "exceptional" President and called him a strong voice for the poor and the marginalised communities.

"With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation."

If elected, Kovind will be the second Dalit President after K.R. Narayanan.

A former head of the BJP Dalit wing and a two-time Rajya Sabha member, the low-key Kovind, who hails from Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, became the Bihar Governor after Modi stormed to power in May 2014.

A sulking Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray disapproved of caste being the basis for Presidency. But another BJP ally, Ramvilas Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party, said those who oppose Kovind will be considered anti-Dalit.

Opposition leaders reacted cautiously.

BSP chief Mayawati, a Dalit leader herself, said Kovind cannot be opposed unless the opposition fielded a popular Dalit nominee.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar called on Kovind immediately after Shah's announcement. But he was non-committal on whether his Janata Dal-United will support Kovind.

He said he congratulated Kovind on his nomination. "I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate."

As to whether the JD-U will back his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: "It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with (RJD chief) Lalu Prasad and (Congress President) Sonia Gandhi. We will discuss later and decide."

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad declined to go into the merits and demerits of Kovind and did not say whether or not the opposition will field a candidate.

"All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the Presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met recently," he said.

Sitaram Yechury of the CPI-M struck a different note. "Kovindji was the chief of the RSS Dalit branch. So somewhere it is a political fight or a contest. We are not commenting or giving any character certificate to anyone."

He said the BJP leaders had promised to seek the opposition' consent on the Presidential candidate which did not happen.

An advocate by profession, Kovind was a Rajya Sabha member for 12 years and a member of several parliamentary panels. He had practised law in both the High Court and the Supreme Court.

An unassuming man, Kovind worked through the ranks to become a national spokesperson of the BJP. He headed the BJP's Dalit wing for three years from 1999.

--IANS

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The simmering discontent among the BJP leaders and legislators in Jharkhand over amendment in two land acts by the Raghubar Das government has come to the fore yet again.

Former BJP state President and legislator Tala Marandi has said that the amendment was against the sentiments of the tribal people.

The discontent was also aired when BJP national General Secretary Ram Madhav interacted with the party leaders and legislators in Ranchi on Saturday.

The party's Core Committee members and legislators demanded withdrawal of the amendment in two land acts - Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (CNT) and Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act.

Madhav, presently on a three-day visit to Jharkhand, is interacting with the party leaders in different districts.

On Saturday, he discussed the government's functioning and party's position on the two land acts in Ranchi. He interacted with the BJP leaders in Seraikela-Kharsawa district the next day.

He is scheduled to meet the party leaders in Khunti on Monday.

Both Seraikela-Kharsawa and Khunti are tribal dominated districts.

During the interaction, the party leaders openly aired their anguish over functioning of the state government and amendment in the two land acts.

A BJP leader told IANS that they demanded withdrawal of the amendment in the two land acts and also informed Madhav that the party leaders have been sidelined by the government.

The BJP's alliance partner, All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), is also opposing the amendment in the two land acts along with the opposition parties.

The protest over the amendment is going on a regular basis in the state.

The Jharkhand government had passed the amendment in the two land acts in the Winter Session in December 2016.

After the amendment, the state government can acquire land for industries, infrastructure and other works. Agriculture land can be used for non-agriculture purposes.

The amendment passed by the state government is pending before Jharkhand Governor Draupadi Murmu.

According to BJP leaders, the amendment has sent a wrong signal among the tribal community that constitutes 27 per cent of the state population.

The BJP got majority of reserved tribal seats in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections. In 2014, the BJP won 12 of the 14 Lok Sabha seats and 37 of the 81 assembly seats.

--IANS

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The Congress on Monday demanded filing of a criminal case against the officers who ordered the "killing of farmers" in Madhya Pradesh during the peasants' agitation on June 6.

The party said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre was anti-farmer and that they wanted to have a "kisan-mukt bharat" (India without farmers).

"We demand that a criminal case be lodged against those officers who ordered firing in Mandsaur that led to the killing of six farmers. Prompt action must be taken against them so that the farmers' families get justice," Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia told media persons here.

Scindia also said it was the responsibility of the central government to waive off the loans of farmers, adding that the Congress' campaign for the sake of rights of farmers would continue.

"If the government can waive off loans worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore of corporate houses, then why not Rs 5.3-lakh crore loans of the farmers?" said Scindia.

The farmers' agitation turned violent on June 6 in Mandsaur after a mob pelted stones at police. In retaliation, police opened fire in which five farmers were killed and one later succumbed to injuries.

"One will be surprised to see the key points of the inquiry commission set up by the Madhya Pradesh government. There is no mention of the point that the persons who fired at the farmers must be held responsible. People involved in firing are on the run," Scindia added.

He also said that 13 farmers had committed suicide in the past 10 days and they were "between 17 and 35 years of age". "They were the sole bread winners of their families. Out of these, four farmers were from Chief Minister (Shivraj Singh Chouhan)'s constituency."

Scindia alleged that the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government also indulged in a "bidding game" on the compensation amount to be given to the farmers' families.

"They first said, they would give Rs 1 lakh, then they went up to Rs 5 lakh and then to Rs 10 lakh. Finally, they said they will give Rs 1 crore each to the families of the killed farmers.

"The families were even threatened that if they did not attend Chief Minister Chouhan's fast in Bhopal, they won't be given the compensation money. This is the kind of sensitivity the government has," he added.

"The NDA government is anti-farmer, they want to have a 'kisan-mukt bharat'. They haven't yet fulfilled their promise of loan waiver for all farmers. There is a huge gap between what they say and what they do," he added.

Scindia sat on a three-day fast on Wednesday in Bhopal demanding loan waiver and "justice" for the farmers in Madhya Pradesh.

The farmers of state launched their agitation on June 1 demanding loan waiver and "appropriate price" for their produce.

"Outside every mandi, there is six to eight kilometre long queue of tractors in Madhya Pradesh and around 1,000 farmers can be seen waiting there for the buyers of their produce to show up. Demonetisation was the biggest reason for such a condition of the farmers," he added.

"If Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra can waive off loans, why can't Madhya Pradesh? why loan waiver is not an issue for the government despite 21,000 farmers committing suicide in three years in the state?" said Scindia.

--IANS

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The ASE Group, a subsidiary of Russia's ROSATOM State Atomic Energy Corporation, on Monday announced that the foundation of the unit three of the Kundankulam Nuclear Power Project (KNPP), will be laid by the end of June or beginning of July.

"Since the foundation of unit 3 will be laid at the end of June or beginning of July, we believe it will take us approximately one year between the foundation and start of construction of each following units," ASE Group president V.I. Limarenko told a select group of media persons here.

KNPP, a joint project between India and Russia in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district, is being built by ASE Group alongside the Nuclear Power Corporation of India.

The ground-breaking ceremony for construction of units three and four was performed on February 17 last year.

On June 1, India and Russia signed an agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit for construction of units 5 and 6 of the project.

Limarenko said the company plans to sign the contract for the design work and supply of equipment for units five and six in the next few months.

"Units five and six are similar to previous units. A greatly experienced team will work. Taking into account that the agreement has been signed recently, we are planning to sign the contract in the upcoming months.

"These are contracts related to design work and supply of equipment," Limarenko said on the sidelines of AtomExpo 2017 organised by Rosatom.

He hoped that units three, four, five and six will be constructed smoothly one by one.

"More than that, we expect a proposal from the Indian side for another site where we can construct six more power units. And so we believe that in all, 12 units will be constructed," he said.

Construction of KNPP started in 2002. In 2013, Unit 1 was synchronised with the southern power grid and is now generating 1000 megawatt. Of electricity.

The second 1,000 MW unit has started its one-year period of warranty operation on March 31, which is the first step towards the commercial operation of the unit,

ASE Group and NPCIL signed a joint statement on Final Takeover of Unit 1 of the KNPP on April 5.

Units three, four, five and six also will have 1,000 MW capacity each.

Limarenko said up-to-date technology was being used for complete safety of the Rooppur nuclear power plant of Bangladesh, with the certification of specialists from three European nations including those from Russia and France.

(Sirshendu Panth is attending the conference at the invitation of Rosatom. He can be contacted at s.panth@ians.in)

--IANS

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Positive global cues and healthy buying in index heavyweights such as Tata Consultancy Services, Tata Steel and Reliance Industries pushed the Indian equity markets higher during the mid-afternoon trade session on Monday.

Investors' sentiments were also buoyant after the GST Council on Sunday unanimously agreed on July 1 rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime and decided on a two-slab structure for taxing lottery tickets.

Around 1 p.m., the wider Nifty of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) rose by 39.80 points or 0.42 per cent to trade at 9,627.85 points.

The 30-scrip Sensitive index (Sensex) of the BSE, which opened at 31,168.98 points, traded at 31,220.24 points -- up 163.84 points or 0.53 per cent from its previous close at 31,056.40 points.

The Sensex has so far touched a high of 31,247.69 points and a low of 31,163.35 during intra-day trade.

However, the BSE market breadth was bearish -- with 1,286 declines and 1,191 advances.

"Equity benchmarks started off the week on a positive note after seeing consolidation in previous two weeks, backed by positive Asian cues. European market was in positive mood after French President Emmanuel Macron's party won a parliamentary majority at the weekend," Dhruv Desai, Director and Chief Operating Officer of Tradebulls, told IANS.

"The mid-cap and small-cap indices traded marginally positive. Top gainers in the NSE are Infratel, Adani Ports and RIL, while top losers are Cipla, Coal India and ONGC."

On Friday, the benchmark indices slipped lower to close on a flat note on the back of continued outflow of funds and heavy selling pressure in healthcare and IT stocks.

The NSE Nifty inched higher by 10 points or 0.10 per cent to close at 9,588.05 points, while the Sensex closed at 31,056.40 points -- down 19.33 points or 0.06 per cent.

--IANS

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Hills of Himachal Pradesh may experience rainfall in the next one day with chances of heavy spells in low and mid hills, a official said here on Sunday.

"The low and mid hills are likely to experience heavy spells of rainfall by Monday," an official at the meteorological department told IANS.

The monsoon would be active in the region and tourist towns of Shimla, Narkanda, Kufri, Kasauli, Chamba, Dharamsala, Palampur and Manali may get rains in the next few days, he said.

Meanwhile on Saturday, Nahan in Sirmaur district saw 65 mm rainfall, the highest in the state.

Dharamsala and Palampur in Kangra district got 42.8 mm and 18.5 mm of rainfall respectively.

The maximum temperature in the state capital, which saw no rain in the past 24 hours, was 23.5 degrees Celsius.

--IANS

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To further develop the ecosystem for startups in India, the government is working on ways to step up the exchanges with startups from countries like Germany and in the South Asian region, Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday.

"We have negotiated with Germany for an exchange of ideas with German startups under an existing arrangement between our countries," Sitharaman said here at the launch of the Startup India Hub online platform designed to be a single point of contact for the startup community.

"We are currently working on the modalities of how to exchange ideas with German startups, and hope to realise this within some months," she said.

The Minister said that given the complementarities among the South Asian nations, the government is actively considering a South Asian Association for Regional Coperation (Saarc) startups exchange programme.

"We are looking at organising a Saarc countries' meet for startups, where mutually beneficial ideas for innovation can be worked out... the inter-relationships and synergies can be worked out better because South Asian minds have similar thinking," Sitharaman said.

"We'll create the space for startups to interact, but the topics, format, who to invite etcetera have to be decided by the startups themeselves," she added.

--IANS

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An Indian is among four foreign prisoners who have escaped from a jail in Indonesia's Bali island, police said on Monday.

The prisoners were identified as Indian Sayed Muhammad, Australian Shaun Edward Davidson, Bulgarian Dimitar Nikolov and Malaysian Tee Kok King, reports the BBC.

The four were serving terms for a mix of drug and fraud offences at the Kerokoban Prison. They tunneled their way out.

Prison chief Tony Nainggolan said he believed the men were still on the resort island.

They are believed to have escaped through a 50cm by 70cm hole found in the outer wall which connects to a 15m-long narrow tunnel, according to prison officials.

Local media reports said it was an existing tunnel used for water drainage, the BBC reported.

Staff noticed they were missing on Monday morning during a routine check.

In May, about 200 prisoners broke out of an overcrowded jail in Sumatra island after being let out of cells for Friday prayers.

--IANS

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Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's popularity level has plunged to the lowest in almost a year, after fresh allegations of cronyism and approval of the anti-terror conspiracy law, according to a survey released on Monday.

Forty-nine per cent of the respondents said they approved of the government led by Abe -- 7 per cent lower than the May figure and an 11 per cent drop from April, the poll conducted by Nikkei daily and TV Tokyo network showed.

Another survey conducted by Kyodo news agency indicated yet a weaker support of just 44.9 per cent -- down 10.5 points from May.

On June 15, the Japanese upper house passed the so-called "anti-terror conspiracy" law aimed at preventing terrorism, which, according to its opponents, restricts basic freedoms due to having too wide a scope, reports Efe news.

The Prime Minister has also been hit by another scandal in recent weeks, involving allegations that he granted special favours for the set-up of a new veterinary college at Kake Educational Institution, headed by his friend.

A similar incident occurred in March, when Abe was in the spotlight for his close alliance with the head of a private day-care centre in Osaka, that promoted ultra-nationalist and militaristic views.

Abe's popular support is at its lowest since October 2016, when it plunged due to the adoption of legislation expanding powers to the Japanese Self-Defence Forces, an act widely criticised.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has planned a cabinet reshuffle in August or September.

--IANS

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US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner is travelling to the Middle East this week in pursuit of a peace deal between the Israelis and Palestinians, a White House official has confirmed.

Kushner will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netayahu in Jerusalem and with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah as a Trump envoy, along with Jason Greenblatt, an assistant to the President and special representative for international negotiations, the official told The Washington Post on Sunday night.

The visit comes a month after Trump's maiden trip to the region, during which he met with Israeli and Palestinian officials and committed to working to bring both sides together in a lasting peace agreement.

Greenblatt is scheduled to arrive in the Middle East on Monday, while Kushner will reach on Wednesday, according to the White House official, who detailed the trip on the condition of anonymity.

Kushner and Greenblatt are hoping to "continue conversations" with both sides but noting that an accord almost certainly would require ongoing discussions.

"It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Kushner and Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington, D.C.," the official told The Washington Post.

--IANS

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At least five people died on Sunday in fresh landslides in Bangladesh, raising the deaths to 163 as heavy monsoon rains have lashed the country for a week.

Three children died in the district of Khagrachhari, and a woman and her daughter died in Moulvibazar, officials confirmed to the Efe news agency.

Khagrachhari's Police Superintendent Ali Ahmed Khan said two children were buried alive in a mudslide that hit the room of their house they were sleeping in, located in Ramgar town, after rainfall intensified Saturday night.

Their parents, who were sleeping in another room, were unharmed.

Moulvibazar Police Superintendent Mohammad Shahjalal said a 40-year-old woman and her 13-year-old daughter died after their house collapsed under the weight of the mudslide.

With the fresh fatalities, the deaths in the country since last Tuesday have risen to 163, in what the government has described as the worst landslides in history.

Manzurul Mannan, Deputy Commissioner of Rangamati, the district worst affected by the catastrophe, said two more bodies were recovered on Saturday, pushing the number of dead in the district to 113.

Incessant downpour continues to keep people under the threat of new landslides, causing many to return to the 17 government shelters that have been kept open since Tuesday in view of the risk the people face in their homes.

"Some had left the shelters but are returning, our people with hand-held loudspeakers are calling them to return," said Mannan.

The rains began last Sunday but intensified Tuesday and Wednesday, when 343 millimetres of rainfall was recorded in Rangamati.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Sunday recorded 68 mm of rain in just six hours in Rangamati, according to BMD's local spokesperson Arif Hossain.

The Ministry of Disaster Management is giving out aid to victims and assessing the damage in the affected areas.

The districts of southern Bangladesh usually suffer the effects of monsoon and tropical cyclones at this time of year, which has often resulted in catastrophes that have claimed many lives, despite government attempts to regulate the construction and placement of houses.

--IANS

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Union Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti on Monday said a law to protect Ganga river will be brought in only after thorough consideration and refused to comment on the penal provisions in the draft statute.

"We are minutely studying the draft law. It is a wonderful legislation drafted by Justice (Girdhar) Malviya. But it will be brought in the public domain only after thorough examination of all its aspects," Bharti told reporters here.

"It will be premature to comment on the provisions of the proposed law," she said.

The government had formed a committee led by Justice Girdhar Malviya (retd) in July last year to prepare the draft Ganga Act. The committee submitted its report to the Ministry for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation on April 12.

Bharti said the law was necessary to protect the holy Ganga.

"The Ganga is among the 10 most polluted rivers in the world. A law is needed to preserve it and ensure its uninterrupted flow," she said.

She said the river's most polluted stretch was in Kanpur, and her Ministry had been discussing with the Uttar Pradesh government to shift Kanpur's industry -- majorly tannery -- out of the city.

"There is a meeting (scheduled) in this connection with Uttar Pradesh officials in the next few days. Industry and livelihoods associated with it are important, but the river cannot be allowed to die like this (due to effluents)," the Minister said.

Bharti ruled out shutting the crematoria along the Ganga, as also barring the practice of 'asthi visarjan' (immersing ashes of the dead) into the Ganga.

"The practice of 'asthi visarjan' will not be stopped. This is not just a tradition but also necessary for the fish," the Minister said, adding, "we are not going to shut crematoria along the river bank. But we are going to repair and rejig the old ones."

She said 200 engineering students from colleges along the river have been enrolled for extensive bio-technical study of the Ganga from Gangotri to Ganga Sagar.

Each group of two students, accompanied by volunteers from Nehru Yuva Kendra and Ganga Vichar Manch, will extensively study a stretch of about 25 km each. These students will also interact with the local residents to study the social impact of the Ganga on their lives.

"These reports are likely to be available by September-October. Then we will know every inch of the Ganga firsthand. These students will compile their observations. We could have employed other methods, but I think this will be the closest to reality," Bharti said.

She said it will take at least 10 years for the Ganga to regain its old glory.

On the Yamuna's revival in Delhi, Bharti said at present "not a drop" from Haryana's share of water can be taken away to release into the Yamuna, but her Ministry has given Delhi Jal Board around Rs 1,500 crore for various sewage treatment projects.

--IANS

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BSP chief Mayawati on Monday said that while she does not subscribe to the political lineage of Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, her party's stand on his presidential candidature will "be positive and certainly not negative".

In a statement, the four-time Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah and Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu had telephonically informed her that Kovind will be the NDA candidate for the office of the President of India.

The Bahujan Samaj Party leader said since Kovind came from the Kori community, which though in small numbers was a part of Dalits, she would never oppose his candidature.

The Dalit leader also added that Kovind had strong linkage to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological mentor of the BJP, something which she could not ever support.

She, however, hinted that if the opposition named a more popular Dalit leader, she would review her party's stand on Kovind.

The name of former Lok Sabha speaker Meira Kumar is doing the rounds as the opposition candidate for the top post and BSP leaders say in such an eventuality their party would favour the Bihar woman politician.

Mayawati, however, rued that the government did not chose in good faith to consult opposition parties about its candidate and merely informed them about its choice.

She also mentioned that earlier the Rashtrapati Bhavan had a Dalit occupant in former President K.R. Narayanan and that it would have been better if the NDA had named any other "apolitical Dalit name" for the top constitutional job.

--IANS

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The Congress on Monday demanded filing of a criminal case against the officers who ordered the "killing of farmers" in Madhya Pradesh during the peasants' agitation on June 6.

"We demand that a criminal case must be lodged against those officers who ordered police firing in Mandsaur that led to the killing of six farmers. Prompt action must be taken against them so that the farmers' families get justice," Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia told media persons here.

The farmers' agitation turned violent on June 6 in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh after a mob pelted stones at police. In retaliation, police opened fire following which five farmers were killed and one later succumbed to injuries.

"One will be surprised to see the key points of the inquiry commission set up by the Madhya Pradesh government. There is no mention of the point that the persons who fired at the farmers must be held responsible. People who were involved in firing are on the run," Scindia added.

Scindia further said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led Madhya Pradesh government also indulged in a bidding game on the compensation amount to be given to the farmers' families.

"They first said, they would give Rs 1 lakh, then they went up to Rs 5 lakh and again to Rs 10 lakh. Finally, they said they will give Rs 1 crore each to the families of the farmers who were killed.

"The families were even threatened that if they did not attend Chief Minister Chouhan's fast in Bhopal, they won't be given the compensation money. This is the sensitivity of the government," he added.

"The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is anti-farmer, they want to have a 'kisan-mukt bharat' (farmer-free India). They haven't yet fulfilled their promise of loan waiver for all farmers. There is a huge gap between what they say and what they do," Scindia added.

Scindia sat on a three-day fast on Wednesday in Bhopal demanding loan waiver and "justice" for the farmers in Madhya Pradesh.

The farmers in Madhya Pradesh launched their agitation on June 1 demanding loan waiver and "appropriate price" for farm produce.

--IANS

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A Muslim girl was found dead a day after she was assaulted near a mosque in the US state of Virginia and a suspect has been arrested, police said.

The victim was identified as 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen of Reston and her body was found in a pond on Sunday, The Washington Post reported.

Fairfax County police identified the suspect as 22-year-old Darwin Martinez Torres and charged him with murder.

According to accounts from police and an All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) official, a group of four or five teenagers including Nabra had visited a restaurant to have a late-night meal after prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

At about 4 a.m., the group was confronted by Torres as they walked on a street.

They ran into a mosque, but one of them, Nabra, was left behind and was later reported as missing, said Deputy Aleksandra Kowalski, a spokeswoman for the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.

The police conducted an hour-long search around Dranesville Road and Woodson Drive in Herndon and remains thought to be the girl's were found about 3 p.m. on Sunday in a pond in Sterling.

During the search, police said they stopped a car being driven in a suspicious manner in the area, and took the driver Torres into custody.

The girl's mother said detectives told her that Nabra was struck with a metal bat.

"I can't think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Father's Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself," Loudoun County Sheriff Michael L. Chapman said.

The reason for the attack was still not known, but hate crime was one of the options being investigated, reports said.

"We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event," Rizwan Jaka, chairman of ADAMS, said in a statement.

--IANS

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South Korea's new Foreign Minister has said that North Korea should be denuclearised by both sanctions and dialogue while any of its provocations should be dealt with sternly.

Kang Kyung-wha, the country's first female Foreign Minister, made the comments on Monday in her inaugural address here, reports Xinhua news agency.

South Korea should actively address North Korea's nuclear and missile issues that have become increasingly urgent and advancing as they are posing threats on security.

At the same time, Kang stressed that South Korea should seek to wisely resolve current issues with China to develop the bilateral relations.

As regards to ties with Japan, Kang said her country should seek a future-oriented, mature cooperative partnership while encouraging its neighbour to squarely face the history.

Kang vowed to increase communications with people in establishing diplomatic policies and to make the policies known to people more exactly.

--IANS

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The BJP on Monday defended the decision not to come out with a name for the July 17 presidential election during meetings held by the three-member panel with the opposition, saying it did not want to appear "pre-determined".

"Of course, we did not suggest any name. The reason was that if you suggest any name, it means you are not leaving any option for others," Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader M. Venkaiah Naidu said, adding that he hoped for opposition support to Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind's candidature.

On June 12, Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah had formed a panel comprising Naidu, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to hold discussions with various political parties for a consensus on the presidential candidate.

"If I take a name, practically that means (that) I am pre-determined. We went there with open mind, asked for suggestions. We met all important political parties, both allies and opposition, and asked for their views."

The opposition, including the Congress, Left and the Bahujan Samaj Party, termed the announcement of Kovind's name as NDA nominee as "unilateral".

"Keeping in view the best traditions of democracy, we reached out to all political parties, particularly the opposition."

Naidu, along with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, had met key opposition leaders like Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Communist Party of India-Marxist General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, and Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav in connection with the presidential poll.

The union ministers, during these meetings, had not suggested any name, prompting the opposition leaders to call the meetings a "public relations exercise" and a "formality".

"Taking into consideration various suggestions and inputs from various parties, we came out with Kovind's name," Naidu said.

The Minister said that before Kovind's name was formally announced, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had personally called up Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, among others, to inform them about the Bihar Governor's candidature.

"Despite having a majority, we reached out to opposition parties. We now hope that they don't have any reason to oppose Kovind's candidature because of his background, his non-controversial nature and social background," Naidu said.

--IANS

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CBI officials on Monday visited the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus to meet administrators and students regarding Najeeb Ahmed, a student who went missing in October last year.

This is the fourth campus visit by the investigating agency in the last 10 days. The CBI filed a case on June 3 to probe Najeeb's mysterious disappearance.

On May 16, the Delhi High Court asked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the case of the first year M.Sc. student.

Najeeb, 27, went missing from his JNU hostel on the night of October 14-15 following an alleged altercation with members of the RSS student wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). The ABVP has denied any involvement in his disappearance.

--IANS

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Turkish actor Necati Sasmaz will feature alongside Indian actors in two films which are part of a co-production deal between his banner Pana Film and Indian film production house Eros International Media Ltd.

Necati, best known for playing the lead role of Polat Alemdar in popular Turkish TV series "Kurtlar Vadisi" ("Valley of the Wolves"), will shoot in both India and Turkey for the projects, which will be a bilingual.

"Pana Film greatly values this exciting partnership with Eros International. Our common goal is to build a cultural bridge between both regions. With our Indian collaboration, we aim to expand our presence and tell new stories that can bring Indian and Turkish audiences together," Sasmaz said in a statement.

"Pana Film and Eros International will make history together as the co-producers of the first Indo-Turkish feature films, which will open new doors and provide endless opportunities for everyone involved with filmmaking. We consider this only the beginning of a new era and cannot wait for our fans to see the result of this successful partnership," he added.

Kishore Lulla, Chairman, Eros International, said: "We are honoured to associate with a powerhouse entity like Pana Film. Following our pioneering Indo-China joint production initiatives, we continue to expand the scope of Indian films internationally with our exciting Turkish collaboration.

"With our similar cultures, we want to tell stories with a mainstream appeal that transcend language and geographical boundaries. We hope our Indo-Turkish productions will pave the way to open one of the significant regions in the world and reach out to fans across the two countries and the MENA (Middle East to North Africa) regions".

--IANS

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Expressing surprise at the BJP's decision to name Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's presidential candidate, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday claimed she has never heard of the nominee and termed it a "not so mature" move.

"I have not heard his name ever before. I do not know him. I could recognise him only after he was mentioned as the Bihar Governor. I can say that I am surprised by the decision," Banerjee said at Dubai en route the Netherlands to address a United Nations' event.

"His name did not come during our discussion. We gave a consensus proposal as the President is a very important portfolio. This name is like a bolt from the blue. This is not a very mature decision," she said.

Terming the President's role as pivotal in protecting the nation and its Constitution, Banerjee argued that someone who is a seasoned expert in the subject should have been chosen instead.

The Trinamool Congress supremo noted: "Everyone knows that the President plays a vital role in protecting the nation and the constitution. It should have been someone like Pranab Mukherjee, Lal Krishna Advani or Sushma Swaraj who is a constitutional expert and knows our country well.

"I am not saying that the Governor of Bihar does not know the nation. I have spoken to two or three other Opposition leaders, they are also surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP, they have made him the candidate. This is not a good practice."

Accusing the NDA of not bringing up Kovind's name during the previous discussions, Banerjee said that their decision is not a consensus decision.

"If someone decides to talk to us after the name is announced, we would tell them that we do not know this person. This is not a consensus decision," she said.

Banerjee said she is would be waiting for the all-party political meeting on June 22 before taking a final call.

"This is not the final decision.I cannot say much in this matter as we have an all-political party meeting on June 22. However, there were no discussions on the name of the presidential candidate yet.

"In order to support someone, we must know the person. Candidate should be someone who will be beneficial for the country. Opposition will meet on June 22, then only we can announce our decision," she added.

Earlier Trinamool's chief national spokesperson Derek O'Brien said: "The name was announced at the BJP press conference. That's how we got to know. Not even informed. How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today? I did."

--IANS

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Veteran actor Gulshan Grover, whose web-film "Badman" has been invited for screening at the Moscow International Film Festival and London Indian Film Festival, says he never thought that something made for internet will be shown at international festivals.

"Badman" will be screened at the Moscow International Film Festival on Saturday and London Indian Film Festival on June 27.

"I never thought that what was made for internet will be shown in international festivals. It will be shown at Leicester square on June 24 and June 25 on Wembley, London, June 26 - Birmingham and June 27 in Stratford. Four different large cinemas are going to screen the film and at the biggest theatre in Moscow. Yes, it is something that excites me," Gulshan told IANS.

Talking about the achievements made by "Badman", Gulshan, who will be flying to Moscow on Tuesday, pointed out that the Soumik Sen directorial is India's first mockumentary feature film.

"All characters are real. Within these characters story is woven. Some of it is real, some is made up. The incidents and scenes are created, but the people are real. 'Badman' is also India's first original feature film for the digital audience.

"Because what is happening is companies are making a lot of content for the viewers on the digital platform, but most of it are in the form of series, no one has made an original feature film. They are giving viewers yesterday's films to watch on the digital," Gulshan said.

"It is also for the first time that an actor's iconic character that has gained popularity and the same actor has been chosen to play the hero of that film. So there are many firsts.

"It is a film that was meant for digital viewing in India, has broken boundaries and it is liked by the Russian film selection committee of the film festival who watched the film and put this up as the opening film of the Indian Panorama. It was also loved by the London film festival curator, who watched the film and simultaneously it will be shown at the London Indian Film Festival," he added.

--IANS

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The new Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) 2017 prescribing energy performance standards for new commercial buildings to be constructed in India was launched by Power Minister Piyush Goyal at an event here on Monday.

"I have recommended that all new buildings and offices in the future should be Super ECBC and Net Zero Energy Buildings. We should also have a code for both residential and commercial buildings this calendar year," Goyal said at the launch.

"I would like to dedicate today ECBC Code 2017 to all the young children of India... to the future of India," he added.

The updated ECBC incorporates advancements in building technology to further reduce building energy consumption and promote low-carbon growth.

According to Power Ministry officials, the adoption of ECBC 2017 for new commercial building construction is estimated to achieve 50 per cent reduction in energy use by 2030.

The code has been developed jointly by the Power Ministry and Bureau Energy Efficiency (BEE), with technical support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The energy saving by ECBC 2017 will be equivalent to the annual expenditure of Rs 35,000 crore and 250 million tonnes of carbon dioxide reduction, an official said.

"This will translate to energy savings of about 300 billion units by 2030 and peak demand reduction of over 15 GW (gigawatt) in a year," a Power Ministry statement said here.

In this connection, the Minister emphasised the importance of not providing subsidies in order to get better results and low cost financing.

"Whenever we have removed subsidies and government intervention, we have got much better results. Though it is a state subject to give incentives, I am not for it as we do not need to give them," he said.

ECBC 2017 sets parameters for builders, designers and architects to integrate renewable energy sources in building design.

--IANS

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Three days after Facebook outlined Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered measures to combat terrorism, now has also introduced four steps to confront extremist activity.

In an op-ed in the Financial Times, Senior Vice-President and General Counsel of Google Kent Walker, wrote that has been working with various governments and law enforcement agencies to identify and remove this content and has invested in systems that help with that task.

He acknowledged that more has to be done in the industry.

The first of the four steps is expanding the use of their automated systems to better identify terror-related videos, using machine learning to "train new content classifiers to help us more quickly identify and remove such content".

The company is also expanding its pool of "Trusted Flagger" users; a group of experts with special privileges to review flagged content that violates the site's community guidelines.

According to Walker, the company will almost double the size of the programme "by adding 50 expert NGOs to the 63 organisations who are already part of the programme".

This expansion would allow the company to draw on specialty groups to target specific types of videos, such as self-harm and terrorism.

The third step would be hiding videos like ones that contain inflammatory religious or supremacist content -- that do not violate community standards, behind a warning.

The company will do more with counter-radicalisation efforts by building off of its "Creators for Change programme", which will redirect users targeted by extremist groups such as Islamic State (IS) to counter-extremist content.

Facebook said that it uses Artificial Intelligence to remove the terror-related content.

The social media giant is currently focusing its techniques to combat terrorist content about Islamic State (IS), Al-Qaeda and their affiliates.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday said Odisha will be the first state in the country to make "Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS)" operational.

"People will be issued disaster warnings through Siren Alert Towers in six coastal districts and other provisions will also be made, which will help us in saving the lives and properties in the face of cyclone or tsunami," said Patnaik.

The Chief Minister was addressing a meeting of state level committee on natural calamities here.

He said a large number of disaster risk reduction and capacity building initiatives have been undertaken to reduce the vulnerability of the people to different disasters.

"We have adopted 'Zero Casualty' approach for all the disasters," he added.

As the south-west monsoon has already set in Odisha, the Chief Minister said "the period from June to October is the crucial period of the year from the natural calamities' point of view".

"With the timely onset of monsoon, we have to review our preparedness to tackle any likely flood and cyclone scenario. Adequate measures in respect of early warning system, rescue and relief operation, supply of drinking water, health and veterinary services must be put in place," said Patnaik.

Asking the Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units and fire services to remain alert for immediate response, he said sufficient quantity of food materials and cattle feed should be stored in vulnerable and inaccessible areas.

--IANS

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Actress Pamela Anderson has called Theresa May the "worst Prime Minister in living memory".

Anderson condemned May's ways via a blog post, in which she also commended WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and his principles, reported mirror.co.uk.

For May, Anderson wrote: "...Theresa May, who is on her last legs. Theresa May of the Pyrrhic victory. Theresa May, who won't shake the hand of the victims of the Grenfell fire. Who doesn't care about poor people. Who doesn't care about justice or peace. Who doesn't care about Julian. The worst Prime Minister in living memory."

She noted May's less than adequate effort and the controversial handling of her visit to the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire in London.

While May interacted only with police and fire officials and ignored the gathered families and friends of the fire-hit persons, Queen Elizabeth II on her unscheduled visit spent time with families, personally inquiring about them.

--IANS

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Actor Rana Daggubati on Monday said he is proud and honoured to have worked with Kajal Aggarwal in upcoming Telugu political drama "Nene Raju, Nene Mantri".

Kajal turned 32 on Monday.

"Congrats Kajal Aggarwal on your 10 years in cinema and on reaching the milestone of 50 films. Proud and honoured to have worked with you," Rana tweeted.

"Nene Raju, Nene Mantri", being directed by Teja, happens to be Kajal's 50th film.

She is thrilled to have reunited with her mentor Teja after a decade.

"It's been a pleasure working with him (Teja) as he encourages me to unlearn the nuances I have picked up over the span of my film career, and to look at my character and this film with a fresh perspective," Kajal told IANS.

She also said that the film, which will simultaneously release in Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam, is her best birthday gift.

"Nene Raju, Nene Mantri", produced by Suresh Daggubati, ACH Bharath Chowdhary and V Kiran Reddy, also stars Catherine Tresa, Navdeep and Ashutosh Rana.

--IANS

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The Punjab government on Monday gave its nod to a proposal to amend Section 26-A of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914, for fixing the location of liquor vends on and state highways.

The amendment, once passed, would lift restrictions on hotels, restaurants and clubs from serving liquor within 500 meters of highways, a state government spokesman said here after a meeting of the Council of Ministers.

"By amending Section 26-A of Punjab Excise Act, 1914, all ambiguities for serving of liquor at hotels, restaurants and clubs would be removed by adding provisions whereby it is cleared that no retail vend would be opened within 500 metres of the and State Highways, but these restrictions shall not apply to hotels, restaurants and clubs situated on the and State Highways.

"The CoM (Council of Ministers) gave a go-ahead to the draft amendment Bill, 2017, in this regard, to be tabled during the current budget session for enactment," the spokesman, quoting the decision of the Council, said.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh chaired the meeting.

The Council of Ministers also gave its formal approval to the budgetary proposals to be presented by state Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal in the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday.

The Council also approved the setting up of a dedicated horticulture university to promote crop diversification in the state, to help in bringing changes in cropping patterns to include the planting of vegetables, fruits, herbs, aromatic and medicinal herbs, fibre and tuber crops, sericulture, fodder crops and floriculture, the spokesman said.

At present, the total area under fruit plants and vegetables is approximately three lakh hectares in Punjab, constituting only approximately four per cent of the total land in agrarian Punjab and a fraction of the country's total area.

"Green Revolution" state Punjab contributes nearly 50 per cent of food grains (wheat and paddy) to the national kitty.
Hindu Makkal Katchi President Arjun Sampath on Monday said he has urged superstar Rajinikanth to join and was told he was "in preparation" for it.

After an hour-long interaction with the 67-year-old actor at his residence here, Sampath told reporters: "Rajinikath sir should free Tamil Nadu from the clutches of Dravidian rule for over five decades."

He said that the "Kabali" star is well aware that the "system is corrupt".

"We urged him to be the flag bearer of alternative . When we insisted him to join politics, he said he is in preparation for the same. He said he would feel guilty if he doesn't do anything for the people of Tamil Nadu," said Sampath.

Rajinikanth further added that only if he joins politics, can he realise his dream of interlinking Himalayan and peninsular rivers into one national grid.

Sampath also said Rajinikanth spoke about spiritualism.

--IANS

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An international human rights group on Monday condemned attacks on bloggers and activists in Vietnam and it urged the government to carry out impartial investigations.

In a new report, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) detailed 36 incidents in which campaigners and bloggers were attacked between January 2015 and April 2017, reports Efe news.

"It's bad enough that activists in Vietnam have to risk prison for speaking out, but now they have to risk their safety on a daily basis simply for exercising their basic rights," said HRW Asia Director Brad Adams.

"The Vietnamese government needs to make it clear that it will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and bring to an end this campaign against rights campaigners," he added.

In the report, victims describe how they were beaten in the presence of uniformed policemen, who never intervened or came to their defence.

One of the latest cases is that of activists Huynh Thanh Phat and Tran Hoang Phuc who were abducted while waiting for a bus.

A group of masked men put them in a van and beat them up before releasing them.

Adams stressed that these activists will not abandon their cause despite the persecution they suffer, as he called on donor countries and Vietnam's trading partners to urge Hanoi to "stop the beatings and to hold these violent assailants accountable".

--IANS

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Warplanes from the US-led coalition operating over Syrian airspace west of the Euphrates River will be treated as potential targets, Russia's Defence Ministry said on Monday, a day after the US military shot down a Syrian air force jet.

Russia, Syria's main ally, also said it is suspending a cooperative pact with the US aimed at maintaining airspace safety in Syria, BBC reported.

The latest spat came a day after an American F18E Super Hornet fighter jet downed on Sunday a Syrian SU-22 which was targeting areas held by a US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-Arab coalition militia fighting the Islamic State in the city of Raqqa.

Syria condemned America's "flagrant attack", saying it would have "dangerous repercussions".

"Any aircraft, including planes and drones belonging to the international coalition operating west of the Euphrates river, will be tracked by Russian anti-aircraft forces in the sky and on the ground and treated as targets," the ministry said.

The memorandum had been in place to avoid incidents occurring between the US and Russian air forces, both of which conduct parallel aerial operations over Syria as they offer support to distinct native forces on the ground.

Russia decried the downing as "cynical" and accused the international coalition of failing to use the appropriate communications channels that would have resolved the situation, Efe news reported.

The ministry insisted that the SU-22 jet had been on a mission in Syrian government airspace.

The Pentagon said, however, that the bombing against the SDF in Taqba, to the west of Raqqa, occurred in spite of US warnings.

The Pentagon said that it did not seek to fight the Syrian regime, Russia or pro-regime forces, but was merely acting in defence of its coalition partners in Syria.

A host of international parties are embroiled in the Syrian civil war to varying degrees, with Russia and Iran aiding Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who receives further ground support from Lebanese Shia militia Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, Turkey backs members of the Free Syrian Army in the provinces backing onto the Turkish border.

The US uses airstrikes to clear the way for the SDF in Syria amid a huge onslaught to re-capture the IS's self-proclaimed regional capital Raqqa.

--IANS

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Popular South Korean web portal Naver Corp on Monday said it will work with global chipmaker Qualcomm Inc to further develop its Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform called Clova.

Under an agreement with Qualcomm's subsidiary, Qualcomm Technologies, Naver will provide Clova for use with the global giant's Internet of Things (IoT) chip processors, Yonhap news agency quoted the company as saying.

Various IoT products such as a smart speaker equipped with Qualcomm's IoT chips will also utilise Clova.

"We expect the cooperation with Qualcomm will help us boost the Clova-based AI system platform ecosystem," Naver CEO Han Seong-sook was quoted as saying.

Naver, in addition, plans to provide Clova on smartphones equipped with Qualcomm's mobile processors as a basic AI system platform, the company said.

"We will continue support so that manufacturers will be able to provide IoT products and services based on Clova and Qualcomm's technology platform," Lee Tae-won, CEO of Qualcomm Korea, added.

Clova, which is similar to Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri, combines speech recognition and natural language understanding to respond to a user's questions or to call up information, such as the weather.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Cheered by positive global cues and healthy buying in banking, metal and capital goods stocks, the Indian equity markets surged on Monday, the 30-scrip Sensitive index (Sensex) of the BSE closing at another fresh high.

The Sensex closed at a new high of 31,311.57 points -- up 255.17 points or 0.82 per cent from its previous close. It had closed at a high of 31,309.49 points on June 5.

Shares of major banks rose and added to the gains on reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will review the measures taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to resolve the non-performing assets (NPA) issue of the Indian state-run banks. The Bank Nifty index scaled a record high of 23,806.65 points.

The wider Nifty of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) rose by 69.50 points or 0.72 per cent to close at 9,657.55 points.

Besides, investors' sentiments were buoyant after the GST Council on Sunday unanimously agreed on the July 1 rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.

However, the BSE market breadth was bearish -- with 1,467 declines and 1,218 advances.

In terms of the broader markets, the BSE mid-cap and small-cap indices underperformed the Sensex. The S&P BSE mid-cap index was a tad up by 0.07 per cent, while the small-cap index was a bit lower by 0.08 per cent.

"Positive global cues aided the market sentiments. Gains in index heavyweight ITC and metal stocks boosted key benchmarks higher, while selling in index pivotal Infosys capped gains," Deepak Jasani, Head - Retail Research, HDFC Securities, told IANS.

"Major Asian markets have ended on a positive note. European indices like FTSE 100, CAC 40 and DAX traded higher," he added.

Anand James, Chief Market Strategist, Geojit Financial Services, said: "Positive cues from Europe steadied nerves at the start of the week, and with bad loan resolution efforts gaining traction, banking stocks led stocks higher. Meanwhile, potential for re-rating will vest on how swiftly would concerns over GST dissipate."

On the currency front, the rupee closed flat at 64.42 to a US dollar from its previous close.

Sector-wise, the S&P BSE banking index surged by 255.83 points, the metal index by 209.57 points, and the capital goods index by 129.69 points.

On the other hand, the S&P BSE healthcare index fell by 67.24 points, the consumer durables index by 35.69 points and the realty index by 6.71 points.

Major Sensex gainers on Monday were: Tata Steel, up 3.43 per cent at Rs 519.30; Adani Ports, up 3.05 per cent at Rs 373.70; Axis Bank, up 1.94 per cent at Rs 519.90; Power Grid, up 1.67 per cent at Rs 213; and Larsen and Toubro, up 1.59 per cent at Rs 1,754.25.

Major Sensex losers were: Infosys, down 1.17 per cent at Rs 929.45; Sun Pharma, down 0.77 per cent at Rs 525.05; Dr. Reddy's Lab, down 0.76 per cent at Rs 2,656.85; Tata Motors, down 0.70 at Rs 452.30; and Coal India, down 0.59 per cent at Rs 253.90.

--IANS

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Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and BJP President Amit Shah met in Mumbai, the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally  this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal.

"Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'.

Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but "some people" are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra.

"We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said.

"The BJP is standing solidly with 'anti- elements', it is backing (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit.

The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers.

The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said.

About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI (of Pakistan) have already wrested control over the critical border state.

"These (BJP/Parivar) people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said.

The Sena's attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came barely 24 hours after Shah and Thackeray met in Mumbai for 75 minutes amid optimism of a thaw in the chilled relations between the two allies of nearly three decades.
The Shiv Sena kept its ally BJP on tenterhooks on Monday as it remained non-committal on whether or not it will back the candidature of Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind for the Presidential election.

Sena MP Sanjay Raut told the media that BJP President Amit Shah called up Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray after announcing Kovind as its candidate for the July 17 election.

"Shah informed him (Thackeray) about the BJP choice and also sought the Shiv Sena's support for Kovind's candidature," Raut said.

On his part, Thackeray maintained his earlier stance and said he would call a meeting of the Shiv Sena to discuss the issue before taking a final decision within a couple of days.

The oldest and most prominent ally of the BJP, Thackeray told Shah on Sunday that his party would take a decision only after the BJP's Presidential nominee was named.

Raut reiterated that the Shiv Sena was keen on the candidature of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat or eminent agro-scientist M.S. Swaminathan.

However, he told the media that Thackeray "will address all your doubts" at the Shiv Sena's 51st anniversary of founding function scheduled later Monday evening in Mumbai.

In the past, on two occasions, the Shiv Sena had deviated from the NDA line by supporting UPA candidates: in 2007 when Pratibha Patil won the election and in 2012 when incumbent Pranab Mukherjee was elected.

On the first occasion, the late Sena supremo Bal Thackeray had thrown his lot behind Patil on grounds that she was the first Maharashtrian and a woman to ccupy the top constitutional post.

Patil defeated NDA candidate and Vice President B.S. Shekhawat.

In 2012, Mukherjee personally called up and later met Thackeray soliciting his support, which the Sena chief offered, going against the BJP-supported NDA candidate, the late P.A. Sangma.

This time round, the Sena stance on Kovind's candidature would be considered crucial as it is a ruling NDA partner both at the centre and in Maharashtra.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Virtually accusing the BJP of playing Dalit vote-bank politics, the Shiv Sena on Monday said if the ally had put forth Ram Nath Kovind's name merely to capture the community's votes, it would not support him.

"If they have declared Kovind's name for getting Dalit votes, then we are not interested. The Shiv Sena has always kept away from such vote-bank politics," said Thackeray at a rally to mark the party's 51st foundation day celebrations.

He added that if the next President proves to be beneficial for all the people of the country and not just Dalits, "then make anybody. We will openly support".

However, he said a final decision on the BJP candidate would be taken at a meeting of party leaders here scheduled for Tuesday.

Harping on the party's pet names - RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and agro-scientist M. S. Swaminathan - Thackeray said Bhagwat was proposed as India is a Hindu nation, but the country has lost a good opportunity by ignoring him.

"If anybody had reservations about Bhagwat, then we suggested Swaminathan for the benefit of the farmers of the country. We are always standing solidly behind the farming community," said Thackeray.

Earlier this afternoon, Sena MP Sanjay Raut said BJP President Amit Shah called up Thackeray only after announcing Kovind as its candidate for the July 17 election, hinting the party was not taken into confidence beforehand.

"Shah informed him (Thackeray) about the BJP choice and also sought the Shiv Sena's support for Kovind's candidature," Raut said.

The oldest and most prominent ally of the BJP, Thackeray told Shah on Sunday that his party would take a decision only after the BJP's Presidential nominee was named.

On two occasions in the past, the Shiv Sena had deviated from the NDA line by supporting UPA candidates: in 2007 when Pratibha Patil won the election and in 2012 when incumbent Pranab Mukherjee was elected.

On the first occasion, Sena supremo Bal Thackeray had thrown his lot behind Patil on grounds that she was the first Maharashtrian and a woman to occupy the top constitutional post.

Patil defeated NDA candidate and Vice President B.S. Shekhawat.

In 2012, Mukherjee personally called up and later met Thackeray soliciting his support, which the Sena chief offered, going against the BJP-supported NDA candidate, P.A. Sangma.

This time round, the Sena stance on Kovind's candidature would be considered crucial as it is a partner both at the centre and in Maharashtra.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Monday apologized for the harm caused by the dispute with his siblings.

Lee said in a statement that he "deeply regrets" that the dispute had affected Singapore's reputation and Singaporeans' confidence in the government, reports Xinhua news agency.

He added that the baseless allegations made by his siblings must be dealt with openly and refuted.

The Prime Minister said he will make a ministerial statement to refute the charges when Parliament sits on July 3.

"I hope that this full, public airing in Parliament will dispel any doubts that have been planted and strengthen confidence in our institutions and our system of the government," he said.

The disputes between the Prime Minister and his siblings started last week with a statement jointly made by the latter, Lee Wei Ling and Lee Hsien Yang.

The siblings criticized the Prime Minister over the formation of a "secret committee" to look into options for their late father Lee Kuan Yew's house at 38, Oxley Road.

They claimed that the committee was set up to obstruct them from carrying out Lee Kuan Yew's wish that the house be demolished after his death.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court on Monday was informed that Sahara Chief Subrata Roy has sold his stakes in Grosvenor House Hotel in London as the court extended by 15 days the time for him to deposit Rs 709.82 crore - the balance of Rs 1,500 crores that he had to deposit by June 15.

The couyrt was told that his stakes in London's Grosvenor House Hotel have been sold to GH Equity UK Limited.

Roy informed the court that he has already deposited Rs 774 crore and another Rs 16.11 crore were handed over to market regulator Sebi's counsel by way of 18 demand drafts.

Giving time till July 4 for Roy to deposit the balance 709.82 crores, the bench of Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Ranjan Gogoi Asaid that if balance amount was not paid by July 4 then "we will be compelled to send him to custody".

The formula is sinple "pay and get out", Justice Misra said as senior counsel Kapil Sibal urged the court not to say that in case of default, he would be sent to custody.

The top court by its April 27 order had asked Sahara to deposit Rs 1,500 crore by June 15, another Rs 5,52 crore by July 15 and Rs 3,000 crore by October 30.

The court extended time till July 4 for the payment of Rs 709.82 crore, as Sibal appearing for Roy, urged the court to give them time of ten working days so that Rs 619 crore that they would be getting from the sale of Sahara stakes in Grosvenor House Hotel are remitted to SEBI Sahara Refund Account.

The top court by its August 31, 2012, order had asked Sahara group's two companies - Sahara India Real Estate Corporation (SIRECL) and Sahara Housing Investment Corporation Ltd (SHICL) to return to the investors Rs 17,600 crore with 15 per cent interest that two companies had raised through optionally fully convertible debentures in 2008 and 2009.

The court on Monday also ordered Sebi to auction Sahara's 87.03 acres land in Haridwar in Uttrakand. It said that market regulator could take the assistance of government approved agencies.

The court directed the auction of Haridwar lands after Sibal informed the court that those lands were fetching Rs 109.75 crore - which was far less than the area's prevailing circle rates.

Based on prevailing circle rates, the price of 87.3 acres of land is Rs 285 crore, the court was told that because of distress sale it was getting only Rs 109.75 crore. The actual amount in hand would be still less after deduction of TDS, capital gain tax and Rs 1.75 crore of customers liability.

The top court had by its earlier order had permitted the sale of Sahara properties at a price which is 10 per cent less than the prevailing circle rates.

In the meantime, the official liquidator of Bombay High Court on Monday submitted for the approval of the top court the terms and conditions and the schedule for the auction of Sahara's Aamby valley property.

The court said that it would take a call on this in the next hearing of the matter on July 5.

The top court by its April 27 order had asked Vinod Sharma - the official liquidator to proceed with the preparation of the terms and conditions for the auction of Sahara's Aamby valley property and said its reserve price would be Rs 37,392 crore.

--IANS

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Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) Monday decided to support NDA's Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

Telangana's ruling party took the decision after its president and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao received a phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Soon after deciding the candidature of Bihar Governor Kovind, Modi telephoned Rao and requested his support for the candidature.

"As per your suggestion we have decided upon a Dalit candidate for the Presidential post," a statement from the Chief Minister quoted the Prime Minister as saying. Modi requested Rao to support the candidate.

The TRS chief consulted the party colleagues and later conveyed his party support for the Presidential candidate to the PM.

--IANS

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Suicide by farmers under debt burden and mounting pressure from moneylenders continues in Madhya Pradesh, though some of these deaths have also been linked to reasons other than farm debt.

On Monday, one farmer committed suicide in a village in Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's home district Sehore, while another ended his life in Vidisha -- the parliamentary constituency of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Bansi Lal, 54, committed suicide by hanging himself at his home in Jamoniya Khurd village within the jurisdiction of Doraha police station of Sehore district, police said.

"Bansi Lal had nine acres of land. He owed Rs 9 lakh to banks as well as moneylenders, and that is why he committed suicide," said his family members.

However, Munna Lal Chowdhary, the officer in-charge of Doraha police station, told IANS: "Bansi Lal has committed suicide. But what exactly drove him to take the extreme step is not known yet. It will be clear only after investigation."

In the second incident, the body of Jeevan Singh (35) of Sair Bamaura village, falling under Kararia police limits in Vidisha district, was found hanging from a tree in an agriculture field.

While the villagers insisted that debt burden led him to kill himself, police station incharge Rachna Mishra said that following a quarrel with his wife, he had left his home in the night itself and that Jeevan Singh committed suicide over the tiff with his wife.

In yet another incident on Monday morning, a 25-year-old man, Murlidhar Beldar, attempted to kill himself by consuming some insecticide in Beri village under Handia Police Station of Harda district. He was admitted to the district hospital in a serious condition.

Handia Police Station In-charge Siddharth Priyadarshan confirmed that Beldar had consumed some insecticide, but said more details were still awaited. His bid to end his life is, however, being linked to family dispute.

With two more deaths reported on Monday, the total number of farmers' deaths in the state in the last eight days has gone up to 13, out of which four deaths have been reported from Chouhan's home district Sehore.

A few days ago, Dulichandra, a farmer who had a debt of Rs 5 lakh, committed suicide in Jajna village in Sehore district.

Khaaju Khan, 75, of Bapcha Kala village and Mukesh Yadav, 23, the owner of one-and-half acre land in Lachaur village in Sehore's Narsullaganj, committed suicide earlier.

The farmers in Madhya Pradesh staged a protest from June 1 to 10 demanding loan waiver and remunerative price for their produce.

Five farmers succumbed to police bullets while protesting in Mandsaur district on June 6 while another succumbed to his injuries later.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A man of humble origin and a low-profile leader, Ram Nath Kovind emerged the dark horse in the presidential race and, if elected, will be the second Dalit President of India.

Born in Paraunkh village in Kanpur rural of Uttar Pradesh two years before Independence, Kovind, who will turn 72 in October, hails from the Koli (weaver) community.

Always unassuming, Kovind worked through the ranks to become a national spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and headed the party's Scheduled Castes Morcha for three years from 1999.

A story doing the rounds after his name was announced as presidential nominee of the ruling NDA was that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had wondered who Kovind was when he was appointed Governor of the state in 2015.

A lawyer by profession, Kovind had practised in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court for 16 years. He was also a central government counsel for some time.

Kovind served two terms in the Rajya Sabha member (1994-2006) and was member of a number of parliamentary committees, including home, welfare of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes and Hindi Shiksha Samiti.

He also served as member on the Board of Governors of Indian Institute of Management - Kolkata and that of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Lucknow.

He has represented India at the United Nations and addressed the United Nations General Assembly in October 2002.

Kovind has worked for the rights of weaker sections, particularly the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and women. He joined the movement of SC/ST employees against the central government over 1997 orders, which adversely affected their interests. The orders were subsequently nullified by amendments adopted during the first National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.

Kovind also worked for providing free legal aid to the poor and weaker sections of the society as an advocate.

During his terms as a member of Parliament, Kovind helped in construction of school buildings in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS).

Kovind was general secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Koli Samaj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Kovind's choice as the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) presidential candidate, saying he would make an "exceptional" President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor and the marginalised communities.

Modi also said that Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution would benefit the nation.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar lauded Kovind's term as the state's Governor and said he served "exceedingly well".

"The ideal relationship that should be with the state government...he acted accordingly," Kumar said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ahead of Wednesday's International Yoga Day celebrations here in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a crowd of over 55,000, Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the venue.

A full-dress rehearsal of the mega event was held at the Ramabai Ambedkar Ground.

Naik and Adityanath took stock of the preparations for the event. They gave directions to the district officials and the department heads involved in the event.

Adityanath visited the dais and inspected the preparations. He then went around the ground to see if everything was in place.

Heavy security arrangements, including traffic regulations, were put in place for the dress rehearsal. A three-km stretch around the venue was sealed off.

Modi would be arriving here on Tuesday evening. His day's engagements will conclude with a dinner hosted by the Chief Minister at his official 5, Kalidas Marg residence.

Early on Wednesday, Modi would lead a crowd of over 55,000 people, including students, teachers, yoga practitioners, officials, divyaangs (differently abled), policemen, politicians, ministers and other dignitaries.

The yoga events would also be held at ten other major parks in the state capital.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The US-led coalition shot down a Syrian warplane over Syria's northern city of Raqqa, the Syrian army said in a statement.

The US-led coalition shot down the Syrian warplane on Sunday over the city of Rasafeh in the Raqqa, while the warplane was carrying out a combat mission against the Islamic State (IS) group, said the general-command of the Syrian army.

Branding the action as flagrant aggression, the Syrian army said the downing of the Syrian war jet by the US coalition is an evidence on the supportive role of the US to the terror groups, Xinhua news agency reported.

It said the attack aims at undermining the capability of the Syrian army, "the only effective power practicing its legitimate rights in fighting terrorism across the homeland".

"The attack comes at a time when the Syrian army is making strides in the war on IS terror group, which is collapsing in the Syrian desert thanks to the progress of the Syrian army and allied forces," the military statement said.

Moreover, the military statement contended that "the attack expose the standing coordination between the United States and the terrorist Daesh group".

Meanwhile, the Syrian army warned of the "dangerous repercussions" of the attack, stressing that such acts will not dissuade the Syrian army from carrying on with fighting the terrorist groups and restoring peace and security to all of Syria.

Downing the Syrian warplane comes as the Syrian army is advancing against IS in the southern and western countryside of Raqqa, while the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are fighting IS inside Raqqa, the de facto capital of IS.

--IANS

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A Chinese scholar has warned Vietnam not be incited by the US and Japan against Beijing.

Li Kaisheng, a research Fellow at the Institute of International Relations in Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said Vietnam's frequent talks with the US and Japan about the South China Sea should not be viewed as benign.

"Japan's help to upgrade Vietnamese Coast Guard vessels is aimed at inciting Vietnam to confront China at sea," he said in a commentary in the state-run Global Times.

"It is good to widen your circle of friends. However, if the intention is to guard against your neighbours, then it will create destabilizing factors in the future. This is true of interpersonal relationships, and also international ones," he said.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc recently visited Japan when both sides signed a total of 43 foreign direct investment agreements valued at over $22 billion.

Political security also formed an integral part of the meeting as both expressed "deep concerns" over the developments in the South China Sea. Japan pledged to provide $350 million to help upgrade Vietnamese Coast Guard vessels and their patrol capability.

Prior to his visit to Japan, Phuc and US President Donald Trump issued a joint statement to enhance their comprehensive partnership. The US transferred a Hamilton-class cutter to the Vietnam Coast Guard.

Li said: "The involvement of countries from outside a region should not act to destabilize regional cooperation."

--IANS

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Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said on Monday that his government had inherited a debt burden of over Rs 2.08 lakh crore from the decade-long rule of the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP rule in the state.

"My government had inherited a shocking Rs. 2,08,051.96 crore debt, as per the White Paper tabled in the House, and the crisis was worse than anyone had anticipated or imagine," he told the Punjab assembly.

Earlier, Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal tabled a 'White Paper' in the house giving details of the finances and total debt of Punjab.

Amarinder said that despite the state's poor financial condition, he had announced the waiver of loans for small and marginal farmers to take forward several of his pre-poll promises to the people.

Based on the interim report of an experts group under economist Dr. T Haque, the Chief Minister on Monday announced waiver of crop loans Afor small, marginal farmers up to 5 acres, with Rs 2 lakh relief for other marginal farmers, irrespective of their loan amount.

He also announced hike in ex-gratia for families of the farmers who suicide families to Rs. 5 lakh from the existing Rs 3 lakh. While announcing continuation of free power subsidy for farmers, he appealed to the big farmers to give up the same voluntarily and immediately announced that he was doing so for his own farms.

Coming down heavily on the erstwhile Akali Dal government for "the total mess it had left the state in", the Chief Minister said: "The 'White Paper' clearly brings out the financial mis-management, imprudence and bankruptcy of thoughts and skills of the previous regime, and shows that the Congress government has inherited an empty treasury.

"The fiscal deficit of the State as on March 31, 2017 stood at Rs. 26,801 crore, which is likely to increase after actual figures of 2016-17 are available."

Amarinder also announced a new Lok Pal bill, which would bring the Chief Minister, ministers and all bureaucrats in its ambit.

Even as the Akali Dal legislators walked out, Amarinder lashed out at the opposition "for raising unfounded issues out of restlessness".

He demanded that the the opposition leaders y should come clean with the names of those involved in sand mine auctions during their regime.

Amarinder reiterated his government's stand on the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal, saying they would not allow the canal to be constructed at any cost as the state had no surplus water to share with others.

Citing facts and figures to show the success of the government's war on drugs, the Chief Minister appealed to the opposition to join hands in the effort. He warned all those involved in drugs to quit or face stringent action.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The NDA's Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind on Monday expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the July 17 election.

"I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings," Kovind told the media on his arrival from Patna.

Asked whether Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar Governor said the Janata Dal-United leader had made a courtesy call.

"As I am the Governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination."

Asked if the opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: "I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India."

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on "an ordinary citizen".

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, J.P. Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination: "It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty."

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had "rich culture, rich traditions and lot of heritage".

--IANS

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The CPI-ML worker who was allegedly lynched by civic sanitation workers in Rajasthan "died due to cardio respiratory failure", his post-mortem examination report has revealed, a police official said on Monday.

Zafar Khan was killed when he tried to stop the civic body workers from photographing women defecating in the open in Pratapgarh district.

"The report which came late on Sunday evening points out that the tentative cause of death is cardio respiratory failure," Pratapgarh's Superintendent of Police Shivraj Meena told IANS.

However, the final cause of death would be known only after the Forensic Science Laboratory results and reports of the viscera are received, he said.

The report does not indicate any injuries on his body, Meena said.

"We are going on ahead with our investigation. I can assure you that it will be fair and impartial," the police superintendent said.

Zafar Khan was attacked on Friday when he objected to the civic authority workers photographing women defecating in the open.

An altercation broke out between the team and Khan. It was alleged that Khan was beaten up badly. He succumbed to his injuries at a hospital later.

Khan's brother has lodged an FIR under Section 302 of the IPC (for murder).

--IANS

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With reference to Crucial week for Presidential election, last date for filing nominations is June 28 (June 19), during the debate that took place in the Constituent Assembly regarding the election of the President, Prof. K T Shah proposed that every adult should have his or her share in electing the head of the State; and accordingly, instead of indirect election through the representatives of legislatures, the election should be by the votes of the people themselves. He argued that while deciding upon the leading principles we were under a stress and strain, and were passing through difficult circumstances and were under influences, which, I venture to submit, deflected our judgment, unbalanced our outlook, and, therefore, we voted for and accepted ideas, which, in my opinion, were not then, and are not now consistent with the idea of a true, real, working democracy, in every sphere of life. He did not wish the President to be a mere mouthpiece of the Prime Minister but to be the real representative of people in their collective capacity and in their sovereignty.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Monday announced that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind had been chosen as the Democratic Alliance's (NDA's) candidate for the coming Presidential polls on July 17. Kovind could file his nomination on June 23, Shah added.
This is a crucial week for the . The Election Commission of India issued a notification last week. The ruling Democratic Alliance (NDA) has said its candidate will file his or her nomination papers on June 23 (Friday). The last date for filing nominations is June 28. Whether it will be a no-contest election or a contest will be decided by midnight on June 30 as July 1 is the last date for withdrawal. The role of the All India Annaa Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is crucial. They together have 119,000 votes. The AIADMK in Tamil Nadu has 59,000, the BJD in Odisha 36,500, and TRS in Telangana 23,200. These parties have supported many Bills of the government in the past three years. But, their support will be contingent on the candidate the NDA sets up. Election for the President entails no party whip for the voters. This makes the choice of candidate important.

Yoga Day in Yogi land

International Yoga Day (June 21) will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lucknow doing surya namaskar. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will host the PM at a massive yoga demonstration , with 50,000 practitioners. Preparations are underway for the event.

The United Nations General Assembly, after a call by Modi in 2014, announced June 21 as International Yoga Day. The first such celebration was organised at Rajpath in Delhi in 2015, in which representatives of about 190 countries participated. Last year, the Day's celebration was in Chandigarh.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has only good words for the governor of his state, Ram Nath Kovind. On Monday, soon after Kovind was selected by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to be its presidential candidate, Kumar said he had done exemplary work in Bihar.
Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), will be the presidential candidate of the Democratic Alliance (NDA), and in all likelihood the next President of India.
At least two Pakistan Navy officers were killed and three others injured today when unidentified motorcycle-borne militants opened fire on their vehicle in the restive southwestern Balochistan province.

The officers were carrying Iftar items from Jiwani town when their vehicle came under attack from four gunmen in the Gwadar district.

"Four armed men on two motorcycles attacked the Naval vehicle and opened indiscriminate firing on it," a Baluchistan government official said.

He said six naval officers were in the vehicle when it was fired upon.

"One of them died on the spot while five others were rushed to Karachi for treatment. One of them expired later on," he said.

A spokesman for Pakistan Navy said the three Naval personnel were injured in the attack.

Security was tightened after the incident and a search operation was launched in the area to apprehend those involved in the attack.

Baluchistan Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri condemned the incident and directed the police to submit a report about the terror incident.

"We will not bow down before the terrorists," Zehri said in his statement.

No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack on the officers but Baloch nationalists and Islamist militants often target the security forces in the province.

The incident comes just few days after the ISIS claimed that it had killed two Chinese nationals, a man and woman, who had been kidnapped on May 24th from Jinnah town in Quetta.

Gwadar port and Baluchistan remain an integral part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and both countries have agreed to boost security for the people, including Chinese nationals, working on different projects under the USD 50 billion project.

Earlier in May, unidentified gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on labourers working on a road in Gwadar's Pishgin area.

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The Tamil Nadu government today informed the Madras High Court that 886 samples of milk taken from 32 districts were examined and found safe.

However, 11 of the 338 samples of milk products tested were found unsafe for consumption.

The Health and Family Welfare department stated this in its report filed in the court with regard to the action taken on complaints of adulteration of milk.

The department filed its report on the high court's direction issued during the hearing of a lawsuit filed by an advocate, Suryaprakasam, seeking a CBI probe into the reports of adulteration in milk by various private producers in the state.

Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary J Radhakrishnan in his affidavit submitted that none of the 886 samples lifted and analysed between August 5, 2011 and May 31, 2017, were found unsafe.

As many as 187 samples were found sub-standard and misbranded, following which 143 cases were registered and a penalty of Rs 10,26,300 was collected, he submitted.

The affidavit added that the department had on June 15 formed a state-level steering committee headed by chief secretary and district-level steering committees under the chairmanship of district collectors for smooth operation of regulatory provisions of the 'Tamil Nadu Food Safety and Standards Act 2006.'



On analysing the milk products, the counter stated, out of the 338 samples tested in 32 districts, 11 were found unsafe and 132 samples were found sub-standard and misbranded.

As many as 83 cases were lodged and a penalty of Rs 6,00,500 was collected, it said.

Elaborating on sub-standard milk products, Radhakrishnan said dilution with water, addition of vegetable fats, less fat are treated as sub-standard.

The official further submitted that a communication had already been sent on November 1, 2016 to authorities concerned to adhere to the directions and observations made by the Supreme Court on the issue.

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Advanced Enzyme Technologies Ltd today said it is eying inorganic growth through acquisitions and targeting Rs 1,000-crore turnover in the next five years.

The research-driven company is looking for acquisitions in Europe and North America.

"We are global leaders in enzymes manufacturing and looking at an inorganic growth through acquisitions in R&D space in Europe, North America or Mexico.

"We have strong presence in the US and India and now plan to increase footprints in Europe and Asian markets," Advanced Enzyme Managing Director C L Rathi told PTI here.

"Being a research-driven company, we have invested significant resources in the R&D of various enzymes, proprietary enzyme products and customised enzyme solutions since inception. Going forward, we are looking at expanding in overseas markets through acquisition of a R&D company," he said.

The company has repaid the debt of around Rs 120 crore in the last two years and it is generating cash, which will be used to fund the acquisition plans, he said.

The recent buyout of Hyderabad-based JC Biotech will help the company in boosting market share in the enzymes space and enable it to enter the biopharmaceutical molecules segment. The acquisition will also contribute around Rs 120 crore in the topline this year, Rathi said.

The company is also setting up a marketing subsidiary and marketing office in Malaysia, the managing director said.

Rathi said the company's US operation contributes 50 per cent of its revenues.

"We see steady growth in our nutraceutical and animal feed segments, which are high margin business. We expect 15-20 per cent CAGR growth and hope to achieve Rs 1,000 crore turnover in the next five-year period from Rs 330 crore in FY17."



The company offers its products and solutions to a global clientele of more than 700 customers spanning across 50 countries. It manufactures enzymes using all four existing natural origins - plant, fungal, bacterial and animal sources.

Enzymes are used in a wide variety of industries like human health care and nutrition, animal nutrition, baking, fruit & vegetable processing, brewing & malting, grain processing, protein modification, dairy processing, speciality applications, textile processing and others.

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On a day the BJP announced Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's presidential choice, its key ally Shiv Sena today refrained from spelling out its stand on backing him, keeping the BJP on tenterhooks.

It said the Sena will take a "final decision" on Kovind in the meeting of its party leaders scheduled here tomorrow.

Addressing the 51st Foundation Day function of Sena in suburban Matunga this evening, Thackeray said his party will not back Kovind if his candidature is aimed at garnering Dalit votes.

Thackeray had reportedly told visiting BJP chief Amit Shah yesterday that the Sena would take a call on supporting the NDA nominee for the top constitutional post only after BJP reveals its choice. Shah had called on Thackeray at his residence here yesterday.

Earlier today, the BJP named Kovind, a Dalit leader who has been associated with the party and the RSS, as the NDA nominee for the presidential poll.

"If the name of Kovind is being put forward with a view to garner dalit votes then the Sena is not interested.

Sena has never indulged in the politics of hiding behind someone. We shall decide on whether or not to support the candidature of Kovind tomorrow," Thackeray said.

Sena had earlier rooted for the candidature of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Hindutva line and later proposed the name of veteran agriculturist M S Swaminathan for the top post.

Bhagwat, however, didn't show any interest whereas Swaminathan chose not to react.

Sena, known for its unpredictability, backed the UPA nominee Pranab Mukherjee in the 2012 presidential polls against the NDA's P A Sangma. In 2007, Sena backed Pratibha Patil instead of NDA candidate Bhairon Singh Shekhawat.

Thackeray said Sena had proposed Bhagwat's name while keeping in mind the concept of 'Hindurashtra' (Hindu nation).

"Considering that there may be objections to Bhagwat's name, we mooted the name of Dr M S Swaminathan taking note of his service to the cause of farmers," he told the gathering of Shiv Sainiks.

Earlier in the day, Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut said Shah called up Thackeray after the NDA's presidential choice was decided by the BJP's parliamentary board meeting, and sought the party's support for Kovind.

"Uddhavji told him that he will convene a meeting of the party leaders to arrive at a decision and convey our answer to him in one or two days," he said.

In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, the BJP has 122 MLAs and claims to have support of some more MLAs. Sena has 63 MLAs.

There are 67 members from Maharashtra in Parliament - 48 in the Lok Sabha and 19 in the Rajya Sabha.

The BJP-led NDA (including Sena) has total of 52 MPs.

Sena has 21 MPs - 18 in Lok Sabha and 3 in Rajya Sabha, while the BJP has 23 members in Lok Sabha and 5 members in Rajya Sabha from the state, that corresponds to a total value of 19,824 votes.

The Congress-led UPA has 15 MPs from the state in both the houses of Parliament. The total value of MP votes of the UPA is 10,620.

During his address, Thackeray took potshots at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over his remarks that some political parties were behind the recent agitation by farmers.

"...Sena not only stood behind farmers just in spirit, but also with full might," he said.

Against the backdrop of a speculation that mid-term polls could be in offing in Maharashtra, he said Sena is not unduly worried about the snap polls, but is more concerned about suicides being committed by farmers.

"Hold mid-term polls if you want, we are ready... Shivsainik is not just a burning ember, but will rise like a forest fire," Thackeray said.

"Nobody should think that they can keep on winning elections all the time. If anyone is so boisterous then let them hold mid-term elections. We shall bury you in the soil of Maharashtra," Thackeray said in an apparent dig at Amit Shah over his recent statement that BJP is winning elections in various states.

Thackeray said the state government should not put stringent conditions upon farmers to avail the farm loan waiver, which was announced recently.

"If the government puts any such twisted conditions, I would tear that paper (notification) myself. Be liberal in giving aid to farmers," he said.

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A 40-year-old Australian man has been charged with possessing a Nazi machine gun, used extensively by the German army during World War II, according to media reports today.

Police found the MP40 submachine gun, a prohibited firearm, after they pulled over a car yesterday in New South Wales state.

The weapon was developed in Nazi Germany and used extensively in World War II.

Police seized a bag containing the gun, a magazine and 60 rounds of ammunition. The gun's barrel was missing, the abc.Net.Au reported.

The man police charged was a passenger in the vehicle, which was stopped on Oakland Avenue.

Police said the gun appeared to be in working order.

Shane Casey, senior curator at the Australian War Memorial, said the weapon was used extensively by the German army.

"It's a very robust weapon and was also souvenired during the war by Allied soldiers," he said.

"We've got examples here in our collection. You would find it after the war being used in Northern Ireland and there's also examples that have turned up in Vietnam and Cambodia," Casey said.

"Initially it would have been designed to be carried by troops in vehicles or paratroopers because it's quite small and has a folding stock," he said.

The weapon will undergo a forensic examination to determine if it was linked to any shooting incidents.

The man will appear in Wyong Local Court.

Australia has very strict gun control laws. All firearms must be registered, and to use one a person must hold a licence.

Last week, Australia brought in a national gun amnesty because of the growing terrorism threat and an influx of illegal arms in the country.

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Filmmaker Michael Bay, who directed "Bad Boys" and its sequel, is not part of the third film but he said it needs to be brought out soon or else there will be no point in making the project.

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence fronted the franchise. "Bad Boys" was a huge success for Sony Pictures upon its initial release in 1995. Its sequel released in 2003.

A third and even fourth film has been apparently planned by Sony Pictures, reported Screen Rant.

"Pretty soon they're going to be old boys, okay? Pretty soon they're going to be retired cops instead of active-duty cops," Bay told CinemaBlend.

"It's taken a long time to get that thing going, and I'm not involved in getting it going. They should get it going soon, though. You could definitely get Martin and Will to be funny again - those were fun movies to do.

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A business administration student of a local college was hospitalised after he was allegedly assaulted by four men today, police said.

The BBA student had gone to a mall here to watch a film and he was attacked by the accused men with sticks when he came out of the mall, police said.

While the student's friend cried for help, nobody intervened to help them. Later the student was taken to a hospital, where his condition was said to be stable, an official said.

The student's brother told police that four months ago the former had a clash with some people which had turned into a physical fight then but the matter was resolved later.

However, the brother suspected that it could be the same people again, the official said, adding police was probing the case.

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Boeing announced today what it claims will be the most efficient jet yet in the highly competitive civil aviation market as it tries to claw back market share from rival Airbus.

"Today, it is our pleasure to officially announce the newest member of our 737 family, the 737 MAX 10," Kevin McAllister, head of the company's commercial aviation division, told journalists as the Paris Air Show got under way.

The MAX 10 will be the largest of the updated 737 series, which competes head on with Airbus's A320 neo family. With the latest advances in engines and aerodynamics, they promise significant fuel savings to airlines, which have responded with hundreds of orders for single-aisle airlines that are the workhorses of their fleets.

Airbus, which moved first to update its aircrafts used in most midrange flights, now has a 60 percent market share.

The 737 MAX 10, which can carry up to 230 passengers, is the largest in the class, and Boeing said it would be five percent cheaper to operate than the Airbus A321neo. As these planes can carry more passengers, they have attracted interest from low-cost airlines as well as carriers looking to exploit their range that allows them to make flights across the Atlantic.

McAllister said the 737 MAX 10 would "the most efficient single-aisle airplane in the skies".

Boeing also announced its first order for 10 of the aircraft from jet leasing firm BOC Aviation in a deal worth USD 1.25 billion (1.12 billion euros).

Boeing has a test version of the 737 MAX 9 on display at Le Bourget airport north of Paris, which hosts the air show.

While Airbus and Boeing dominate the world's civil aviation industry, the duopoly is not without challengers: Competition is looming, notably from Russia and China, which have been test-flying their own mid-range models.

The airshow comes a little too early for either Russia's Irkut, with its MC-21, or China's Comac, with the much-flagged C919, to be able to showcase their aircraft there, but both will leave little doubt that they expect to win a big slice of the aviation pie in the future.

Airbus will also showcase its new long-haul model A350- 1000 and Boeing its 787-10 Dreamliner, while Ukraine's Antonov will present its 132 D.

While new civilian aircraft orders will probably fall short of the USD 130 billion the Paris show clocked up last time -- mostly thanks to booming orders for Boeing and Airbus -- the industry is still optimistic about sustained growth.

Airbus said this month that it expected the market for large passenger planes to more than double in the next 20 years, driven by growth from Asian markets.

Raising its previous forecasts for the next two decades, the European aircraft maker also said a slowdown in orders over the past several months did not signal a drop in the market.

"The trend is positive," said Airbus chief executive Fabrice Bregier.

It predicts the need for 35,000 new planes worth $5.3 trillion over the next two decades, an increase from last year's estimates.

Airbus earlier warned it expected slow orders this year and perhaps next year, too, but called it a normal part of the business cycle.

French President Emmanuel Macron officially opened the biennial Paris Air Show, arriving on a Airbus A400M military transport plane.

Military aircraft are also a key part of the air show, and the spectacular displays of supersonic combat planes are a key draw for the crowds.

One star performer will be Lockheed Martin's F-35A next- generation fighter jet, scheduled to make demonstration flights during the air show.

Some 200,000 member of the public are expected to visit the air show, which runs to June 25. That is in addition to the 150,000 industry professionals from 2,370 companies.

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Saif Ali Khan has praised Karan Johar, saying the Indian film industry is incomplete without the filmmaker.

The 46-year-old actor will be hosting the upcoming International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards with Karan.

"The film industry is incomplete without Karan Johar. Karan is one of the arteries in the blood flow of this industry," Saif told reporters at the IIFA press conference here.

The actor, who has previously hosted award shows, said he has had a great time playing emcee with Shah Rukh Khan.

"I love hosting, especially with Shah Rukh Khan. He is so clever," he said.

Karan, who was also present at the event, said the representation of Indian cinema has changed over the years from just being a song and dance industry.

"There was a time when the West looked at Indian cinema as song and dance, which is far from the truth... Our films are also doing well abroad like the recent success of 'Dangal' in China.

"I think we have come a long way from what the perception was and the reality is today. Also, we have actors doing phenomenal work," he said.

Actor Varun Dhawan was also present at the event.

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Putting up a strong defence of BRICS, Chinese President Xi Jinping said today that the five- member bloc of emerging economies has not "faded its colour" in the first 10 years of its existence and is headed for a "new golden decade".

"BRICS countries are a community of shared interests and future," Xi told the foreign ministers of the bloc when they called on him today to discuss new ideas to revitalise the organisation.

"The BRICS cooperation mechanism has traversed 10 years. I do not think it has faded at all in colour and going forward we are going to have (a) new golden decade," he said, urging the countries to give full play to the win-win spirit and jointly contribute to the development of the organisation.

The ministers, who met Xi, include Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) V K Singh, Sergey Lavarov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa and Alosio Nunes Ferreira of Brazil.

China will host summit of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China and South Africa) at Xiamen city in September.

The ministers meeting, the first such conference of the bloc, was called by China to discuss future course of action.

Earlier while putting up a solid defence of progress achieved by BRICS, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also spoke of BRICS Plus at a press meet but did not elaborate.

"China is ready to shoulder the important mission of opening up of the second decade of BRICS cooperation. China is ready for discussion on BRICS Plus cooperation pattern and forms," he said as Beijing took over this year's rotating Presidency of the group from India.

At the Goa summit, India invited heads of the members of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) excluding Pakistan from the region.

China was expected to outline its proposals for the BRICS summit, specially the countries it plans to invite on its sidelines of the summit.

Answering a question on doubts being expressed over BRICS future, Wang said "there are some questioning voices. I think this shows the international community is paying attention to BRICS although there are different voices".

"BRICS cooperation is an eye catching one in today's arena," he said, adding that "whether or not BRICS is fading or not playing important role, China believes that the important attitude is seeing is believing".

According to IMF statistics, during the first 10 years, the total economic volume of the BRICS accounts for 23 per cent of global total instead of the past 12 per cent, Wang said, adding that the BRICS countries contributed to over 50 per cent of global economic growth.

"All countries should recognise this fact, that is BRICS countries are making greater and greater contribution to global economic development," he said.

The world economy is still sluggish and many economies are facing difficulties and BRICS countries are no exception.

"But if we make a comparison horizontally, we can see BRICS economies are showing strong momentum strong vitality and broad prospects," Wang said.

The BRICS cooperation has already developed full fledged framework involving dialogue cooperation covering various fields. Besides the annual summits, it has over a dozen ministerial mechanisms involving multiple areas including meetings of National Security Advisors to discuss security matters and the foreign minister mechanism launched today.

"We also have CEO meeting and counsel of think-tanks. We have also set up a joint working group on terrorism and joint working group on cyber space affairs and have parliamentary interactions," Wang said, adding that the group can also uphold the legitimate rights of developing countries.

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Britain and the European Union finally began formal Brexit negotiations today, vowing to work constructively for a deal despite disarray in London over whether to go for a "hard" or "soft" divorce.

Almost exactly a year after Britain's seismic referendum to leave the bloc, the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier of France, welcomed his counterpart David Davis with a cheery handshake at the European Commission in Brussels.

The smiles belied the fact that at stake is not just Britain's future but also Europe's postwar political order and its place in the world, which could be fatally undermined without an agreement by the March 2019 deadline.

"We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit," Barnier said, citing the rights of EU citizens in Britain and the possible impact on the open border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"I hope today we can identify priorities and a timetable that would allow me to report to the European Council (summit) later this week that we had a constructive opening of negotiations," added the former European commissioner and French foreign minister, speaking against a backdrop of British and EU flags.

A key issue he did not mention was the EU's bill for Britain to leave, which Brussels estimates at a colossal 100 billion euros.

Davis, a prominent tough-talking figure in the "Leave" campaign, sounded a positive note, saying that while there would "undoubtedly be challenging times ahead" he wanted a good relationship with the EU.

"There is more that unites us than divides us", Davis said, referring to the latest reported terror attack overnight in London and the loss of lives in forest fires in Portugal.

"We launch negotiations in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends in the future."



European stocks rose today, partly on optimism about the talks actually getting underway after months of sniping and uncertainty, analysts said.

In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasised the unity of the remaining 27 EU countries, who have been alarmed in recent weeks by May's threats to walk out of the talks.

"I would like us to get a good agreement that is in both sides' interests. But the 27 of us will formulate our interests very clearly and hopefully, together," Merkel said.

Worried by immigration and loss of sovereignty, Britons voted last year to end their country's four-decade membership in the 28-country bloc -- the first nation ever to do so.

The vote came as a profound shock to Brussels against a backdrop of rising anti-EU sentiment, with many -- including now US President Donald Trump -- predicting the bloc's eventual break-up.

May officially triggered the two-year Brexit process in March when she was riding high in opinion polls, and called for fresh elections shortly afterwards to shore up her mandate for a tough Brexit stance.

But instead she lost her parliamentary majority, putting that hard-line approach and her political future in doubt after the disastrous June 8 election.

Britain now appears to have given in on the EU's insistence that the negotiations first focus on three key divorce issues, before moving on to the future EU-UK relationship and a possible trade deal.

Those issues are the exit bill; the rights of three million EU nationals living in Britain and the one million Britons on the continent who currently are allowed to live, work and claim welfare benefits; and the status of the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

May herself will also have a chance to update the other 27 EU leaders on her Brexit plans at a summit meeting in Brussels on Thursday.

"The best way we can spend this week is to rebuild trust," rather than tackle the big difficult issues right at the start, a European source said.

After the initial shock of last year's Brexit vote, the bloc at 27 appears to have steadied in recent months and got a real morale boost with the election of French President Emmanuel Macron in May.

Macron, a committed pro-EU leader and ally of Merkel, also easily won French legislative elections on Sunday, cementing his power base.

But many in Brussels fear that London has no real strategy, with May under pressure at home and still trying to close a deal with a conservative Northern Ireland party to stay in power, and facing criticism for her handling of the aftermath of a devastating tower block fire.

Finance minister Philip Hammond confirmed Sunday that it was still the plan to quit not only the EU but the customs union and the bloc's single market as well.

But he warned that "we need to get there via a slope, not via a cliff edge".

Barnier has warned that the negotiations must be wrapped up by October 2018 to allow time for all parties to ratify a final accord by March 2019.

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Britain starts formal talks to leave the EU today, seeking a deal "like no other in history" despite entering fiendishly difficult negotiations with a badly weakened government.

A year after Britain's seismic referendum, Brexit minister David Davis and the European Union's French chief negotiator Michel Barnier will meet at the European Commission in Brussels.

At stake in hugely complex talks that are expected to conclude by March 2019 is not just Britain's future but a western political order that would be badly shaken by a failure to reach a deal.

But the situation is very different from 12 months ago when the Brexiteers were riding high, with Prime Minister Theresa May's entire approach called into question after a disastrous election performance on June 8.

"While there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear -- a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history," Davis said in a statement as he headed into the talks.

"I look forward to beginning work on that new future."



Britain already appears to have capitulated to the EU's insistence that talks first focus on three key divorce issues, before moving onto the future EU-UK relationship and a possible trade deal.

Those issues are Britain's exit bill, estimated by Brussels at around 100 billion euros (USD 112 billion), the rights of three million EU nationals living in Britain and one million Britons on the continent, and the status of the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"Sitting down for a first formal negotiation round is something in and of itself," an EU source told AFP.

Talks will begin at 0900 GMT with a joint press conference by former French foreign minister and European commissioner Barnier and Davis at around 1630 GMT.

Worried by immigration and loss of sovereignty, Britain voted last year to end its four-decades-old membership of the 28-country bloc -- the first state ever to do so -- in a shock referendum result.

An increasingly concerned EU has been pushing London to hurry up, with time running out for a deal and three months already passed since May triggered the two-year Article 50 EU exit process.

Threats by Britain to walk away without a deal have also worried European capitals.

Today's talks however are likely to focus on the practical details of timings for the coming months, with the big, divisive issues left aside for now, officials said.

May herself will also have a chance to update the other 27 EU leaders on her Brexit plans at a summit in Brussels on Thursday.

"The best way we can spend this week is to rebuild trust," another European source said.

Amid reports that May is set to make a "generous offer" on the rights of EU citizens remaining in Britain, the source said London had been warned against doing so this week, on the grounds that it could drag up the thorny issue before talks had really got going.

Yet many in Brussels fear that London has no real strategy, with May under pressure at home, still trying to close a deal with a conservative Northern Ireland party to stay in power, and facing criticism for her handling of the aftermath of a devastating tower block fire.

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The Union Cabinet is expected to approve setting up of a Rs 2,000-crore credit guarantee fund by July-end with a view to provide funding facilities to startups, a top official said today.

Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) Secretary Ramesh Abhishek said the fund would be used to lend to startups without any collateral.

He said that last week, the proposal was approved by the Finance Ministry.

Under this, Rs 2000 crore will be disbursed over a period of three years.

"One startup will get a maximum of Rs 5 crore. We are hoping to get the Cabinet approval on this by end of July to operationalise this fund," he said here during the launch of startup India hub portal.

He said that about 7,500 startups will benefited from this corpus and it will generate an additional funding of Rs 15,000 crore.

Since the launch of startup India action plan in January 2016, Abhishek said Rs 960 crore of funds were disbursed to different startups.

The DIPP has put 1,000 facilitators for intellectual property (IPR) related issues besides setting of 547 tinkering labs under Atal Innovation Mission.

"358 startups were facilitated for IPR, 1333 were recognised as startups, 39 startups were given income tax benefits and we are reviewing all other cases regard this.

"These numbers are going to multiply this year as we have changed the definition of startups," he said adding under the 'Fund of Funds' scheme, over Rs 1,100 crore were disbursed last fiscal.

This year, the DIPP has sought Rs 1,600 crore more from the finance ministry.

Talking about the startup India hub portal, he said this platform will help all the budding entrepreneurs who want to seek information related with government's scheme, about mentors, funders and accelerators.

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The Tibetan community of Darjeeling organised a candle light march here demanding immediate restoration of peace in the hills.

Men, women and children of Tibetan community carried candles and posters demanding peace in the hills.

The candle light march was organised at Chowrasta square of the town.

Since June 8, Darjeeling has witnessed clashes between GJM activists and police over the demand for a separate Gorkhaland state.

GJM has claimed three of their activists have been killed. Police, however, confirmed the death of only one person during the clashes. An India Reserve Battalion assistant commandant was also seriously injured in the clash.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Filmmaker Kabir Khan believes a film with a "message" can prod people into thinking, though he fears that it doesn't end up changing "reality".

The director of "Bajrangi Bhaijaan, a 2015 film about an Indian man who helps a little girl reach her home in Pakistan, says it made people think about relations between India and Pakistan.

"It (cinema) is powerful enough to at least make people think, make you ponder, if not change. Like after 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' a lot of people thought about India and Pakistan's relationship, where are we headed. Isn't this a better option than constantly being at war?" he told PTI.

Cinema, he adds, makes people rethink old views.

"But I don't know if it's powerful enough to change the reality. Maybe not, unfortunately," says Kabir, whose new film "Tubelight" -- set in the backdrop of the India-China 1962 war -- is to be released on June 23.

Kabir stresses he has never shied away from taking up social and political issues in his films, stating that he is not afraid to speak his mind.

"Films are the most powerful medium in the country and filmmakers should always put across their point of view without fear."



On political pressure on cinema, Kabir says he had not experienced it and would not succumb to it.

"I don't get afraid, but I do get upset. I am not afraid to speak my mind," he says.

"I think in today's time it is all the more important to speak up. That's the greatest thing about our country that we are allowed to speak our mind."



Kabir says trolling on the Internet does not bother him, but the dismal state of public debate is a "major" concern.

"You do get trolled but that doesn't scare me, though it does upset me. I get worried about where we are heading and what this public debate has been reduced to. Loud shrills, screaming and shouting on channels -- that's not how a debate is suppose to be like."



One might not agree with people, but there is a certain way of conducting a debate, he says.

"You put your point and then a counter point. You can't start shouting, yelling, screaming, abusing as then there is no argument," he says.

Kabir's films have always had a strong socio-political undertone. "Kabul Express" was set in post-Taliban Afghanistan, "New York" was about the effects of 9/11 attacks, and the Salman-starrer "Tubelight" looks at a brother in search of a missing soldier.

The filmmaker, however, says his choice of subjects is not intentional, but his aim is to blend reality with mainstream, which interests today's audience.

"I have not actively thought why the films had India- Pakistan, India-China as backdrop, why 'New York' had a US backdrop. I do think and put my stories against the backdrop of the real context as those are the films I like watching," he says.

As a mainstream cinema watcher, he has "struggled lot of times with the fact that a lot of stories were set in vacuum", he says.

"There is no social or political context. I have realised it's not just about (putting) politics as a backdrop in the film but about the way you present politics in your films. And today's youth likes a blend of reality and mainstream than larger-than-life story telling."



"Tubelight" also stars Sohail Khan, Om Puri and Chinese actress Zhu Zhu.

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As the Punjab government tabled the white paper on state finances and governance in the Assembly today, it highlighted the "fiscal mess" left behind by the previous Akali regime.

In a full-blown attack at the Opposition, the state government talked about the nearly empty coffers, diversion of funds, drop in state's economic growth, non-payment of arrears to employees etc during the 10 year rule of the Akalis.

Meanwhile, the opposition SAD-BJP described the state government's white paper as "white lies". They also went on to present their own 20-page "genuine white paper".

On the fourth day of the session, state Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal tabled the white paper.

In the white paper on state finances, the government said, "After the conclusion of elections to the Punajb Vidhan Sabha, this government was shocked to learn that the financial position of the state was far worse than its wildest imagination. The treasury was virtually lying closed under the weight of bills amounting to about Rs 7,791 crore pending clearance..."



The white paper further pointed out that to meet the expenditure in implementing Atta Dal Scheme, funds were arranged by state procuring agencies at their own level by diverting funds from cash credit limit provided for procurement of wheat and paddy. The unpaid liabilities of Rs 1,747 crore were still outstanding as on March 31, 2017, it said.

It further said the arrears of Rs 2,773 crore of dearness allowance for almost 2 years have not been paid to employees and payments have simply kept in abeyance.

On economic growth during the previous regime, the white paper said the growth rate of the state remained lower than the all-India average except for the year 2013-14.

The present Congress government also tabled another white paper on governance, highlighting major failures of the state by identifying gaps in governance in select departments, including rural development, housing and urban development, local government, industries and commerce, transport and food and civil supplies.

"The white paper, which clearly brings out the financial mis-management, imprudence and bankruptcy of thoughts and skills of the previous regime shows the Congress government has inherited an empty treasury," Amarinder said.

Former finance minister Parminder Singh Dhindsa presented SAD's "genuine white paper" which portrayed the "actual situation" of the state finances from 2002-2017.

"This is the genuine white paper," he declared.

Later talking to media, SAD president Sukhbir Badal hit out at the Congress government for producing "white lies" in the white paper.

Rubbishing the white paper of the Congress government, Sukhbir said it was during their 10-year regime that the total tax revenue of the state grew to Rs 30,000 crore as against Rs 9,000 crore left by in 2006-07.

Akali legislators also remained adamant that their "white paper" be tabled in the House.

As the SAD legislators agitated, state minister Navjot Singh Sidhu launched a stinging attack on them, saying they were claiming their paper to be a super white paper, "but this is a chitta (chitta means white and is also used to refer to drugs in Punjab) paper, which destroyed youth".

Heated exchange of words ensued between Sidhu and SAD lawmakers. There was also a verbal duel between Sidhu and Majithia.

SAD members then decided to stage a walkout from the House, but Speaker adjourned the House for 30 minutes.

Earlier, Congress MLA Kulbir Singh Zira brought a privilege motion against Lok Insaaf Party MLA Simarjeet Bains, alleging that the latter tore off some papers which were lying on his table during the Assembly session last week.

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Corruption by public servants needs to be dealt with sternly to deter them from indulging in such activity, a Delhi court has observed while sending a ex-telecom officer to three years in jail in a graft case.

The court also imposed a fine of Rs five lakh on Ajay Kumar Takkar, a former senior officer in BSNL (Delhi) and MTNL (Mumbai) between 1977 and 2004, while holding him guilty of amassing disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs 17.34 lakh.

"Corruption by public servants are required to be dealt with sternly so that other public servants are deterred from indulging in corruption activities.

"Therefore...Convict Ajay Kumar Takkar is sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of three years and a fine of Rs five lakh," Special CBI Judge Vikas Dhull said.

The court relied on the CBI case that Takkar, who acquired disproportionate assets between 1994 and 2004, could not satisfactorily account for them.

"In the present case, convict Ajay Kumar Takkar has been found guilty under the Prevention of Corruption Act for having acquired disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs 17,34,706," the judge said.

The court also held Takkar's wife Sandhya, who was a homemaker, guilty of abetting corruption as several bank accounts were found in her name. It sentenced her to one year imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs one lakh on the woman.

"The evidence has also proved on record that Sandhya Takkar was having many joint saving accounts with Ajay and there were many fixed deposits in the sole name of Sandhya or in the joint name of Sandhya and Ajay," it said.

According to the FIR lodged by the CBI in 2004, Takkar had joined the Indian Telecom Services on December 12, 1977 and since then had served in different capacities at various places in Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telecom Nigam Limited (MTNL).

The charge sheet had said that his assets were found to be disproportionatetotheextentof71 per centofhisknown sourcesofincome.

He had, however, denied the allegations and said that the inventory prepared was a fudged and contrived document by the CBI.

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The current agitation for a separate Gorkhaland state has struck a chord with the hill people and local political parties, a throwback to the 1980s when a prolonged movement led by the GNLF under Subash Ghisingh had rocked Darjeeling.

Cutting across religious, political and ideological divides, the overwhelming view is that Gorkhaland is a "sentiment" that can no longer be ignored.

"Such unity among the people of the hills was last witnessed in the 80s. Gorkhaland is a sentiment of the people of the hills, which you cannot afford to ignore. It can be suppressed for some time but can't be wiped out," Jan Andolan Party (JAP) chief Harka Bahadur Chetri said as tension continued to simmer, 11 days after the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) called for an indefinite shutdown on June 8.

Chetri, a former GJM MLA, had formed his own political outfit last year after differences with GJM supremo Bimal Gurung.

He has now extended his full support to the cause of Gorkhaland as have GJM's arch-rivals Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF), All-Bharatiya Gorkha League (ABGL), Gorkhaland Rajya Nirman Morcha (GRNM), Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh (BGP) and the Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists (CPRM).

In a disturbing development for West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, a section of local leaders of her Trinamool Congress (TMC) has backed the statehood demand along with local CPI-M leaders.

"Gorkhaland is not a political rhetoric, but a sentiment and a passion which has grown stronger over the years," said a leader who did not want to be named.

There were signs of a split in views in the local BJP leadership as well.

BJP district general secretary Shanta Kishore Gurung said, "I may have difference with the GJM and its style of functioning, but on the issue of Gorkhaland we are on the same page. I am also a Gorkha, how can I betray my Gorkha brothers and sisters?"



State BJP secretary Dilip Ghosh, however, declined to comment on what Gurung said, but maintained that his party was against creation of a separate state.

GNLF, an ally of West Bengal's ruling TMC and an archrival of the GJM, has also broken ranks with the TMC and thrown its weight behind the agitation for a separate state.

"We have our own differences, but... We have decided to keep aside our differences and fight for Gorkhaland. The GNLF has, since its inception in the 1980s, been fighting for Gorkhaland. We now feel that the atmosphere in the hills and at the Centre is fully conducive for the creation of a separate state," Neraaj Zimba, GNLF spokesperson, told PTI over the phone.

Such unity was witnessed during the Gorkhaland agitation in the 1980s then spearheaded by the GNLF under Subash Ghising.

The ABGL, whose founder-chief Madan Tamang was murdered in broad daylight on a street in Darjeeling in 2010 suspectedly by the GJM, also endorsed the agitation.

"Yes it is true we have our differences. But presently we need to keep aside differences and respect the sentiments of the hill people," a senior ABGL leader said.

Asked about the "imposition" of Bengali language, the trigger for the current revolt, GJM general secretary Roshan Giri said, "Our mother tongue is Nepali, why would we learn Bengali? Now if someone says that everybody in India needs to learn Sanskrit, will Bengalis accept? This is the reason all of us have united."



Opinion on the street also appears to veer towards supporting the movement, although the current turbulence has rekindled bitter memories of the 80s disturbance which had all but destroyed the local economy overwhelmingly dependent on tourism.

"We have been branded as foreigners, but the fact is that our land and our forefathers were born here. Darjeeling is being treated as a holiday home by the people of Bengal. Gorkhaland is not just a state for us, but a matter of our identity," Smreeti Rai, a professor of St Joseph College, Darjeeling, told PTI.

Mahendra Pradhan, a retired school teacher, echoed Rai. "We are the most neglected community in this country who did not get their due."



Mustaq Ahmed, a shop-owner who has lived in Darjeeling for five decades and considers himself a "Gorkha Muslim", also feels that the demand of Gorkhaland is completely justified as every community has the right to its own identity.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Islamic seminary in Deoband should issue fatwas against those who raise Pakistani flags in Kashmir and those localities in the country which are called "mini-Pakistan", senior RSS functionary Indresh Kumar said today.

"...We all are Hindustanis and the country where we live is Hindustan. So no locality here can be called Pakistan or mini-Pakistan but there are so many such localities...," he claimed.

"There are localities where Pakistani flag is flying on the roof of houses..Is this according to Islam and are they good Muslims? So why doesn't Deoband issue fatwas against these people," Kumar said here at an event.

He was speaking at the Iftar party organised by RSS's Muslim wing Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) here of which he is patron.

He also questioned if those "raising Pakistani flags in the Valley and throwing stones at the armed forces during the auspicious month of Ramzaan were true Muslims?"



"Don't you all think Deoband should issue fatwas against these stone pelters in the Valley," Kumar said.

Asking Muslims to give up beef, Kumar said, "Beef is a disease, instead they should have milk. Cow milk is good for health..It has medicinal values."



He claimed that there was no mention of any Muslim religious head eating beef in Quran and even Prophet Mohammad condemned it.

Asserting that triple talaq was not a part of Islam, he said, "This practice is an injustice to women. It should be stopped.

"I have asked many intellectual and religious heads of Islam why they want to follow the Sharia instead of what is written in the Quran, but no one has an answer. They acknowledge the opposition to triple talaq as an interference with Sharia not Quran," Kumar claimed.

On the disputed Babri mosque issue, Kumar claimed Mughal ruler Babur was a Mongol and he destroyed a Ram temple there and instead built a mosque after his name.

He claimed the entire act was barbaric and not according to Islam. One cannot construct a mosque by destroying the holy place of any other religion, Kumar said.

The MRM was set up in 2002 by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at the initiative of its then chief K S Sudarshan with the aim of allowing the Sangh parivar to reach out to the Muslim community on various issues including the vexed Ayodhya Ram Temple dispute.

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Thousands of devotees today thronged the Ramakrishna Math and Mission headquarter at Belur in Howrah district to pay their last respect to its president Swami Atmasthanandaji Maharaj whose last rites will be performed later tonight.

It is scheduled to start at the Math premises at around 9.45 pm after puja offerings and other rituals, a Mission official said.

As a part the 98-year-old Swamy's final journey, his body would be taken to various spots in the temple complex including the house where he used to stay.

The pyre has already been made beside the river Hooghly inside the complex for his mortal remains to be consigned to flames after a joint gun salute by Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police.

Atmasthanandaji, who had been suffering from old-age related ailments since February 2015, breathed his last at a city hospital yesterday evening.

Meanwhile, people from all walks of life stood since morning in a long queue which was heading towards 'Sanskriti Bhawan', a building inside the sprawling premises of the headquarter, where the monk's body was laid for the public to pay their last respect.

Besides them, VIPs were also seen at the Belur Math, the gates of which remained open since last night.

Howrah District Magistrate Chaitali Chakraborty placed a wreath on the monk's body on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who considered him as his 'guru'.

Modi, who got spiritual guidance from Swami Atmasthananda in Rajkot and described the monk's death as his "personal loss", had visited the ailing Swami on April 17 last year.

Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, West Bengal ministers Rajib Banerjee, Arup Roy, Lakshmi Ratan Shukla, Trinamool Congress MP Prasun Banerjee, BJP leader Locket Chatterjee and other prominent personalities also paid their last respect to the monk.

A tight security arrangement has been made by the police in view of the gathering of thousands of devotees in the complex.

Outside the complex, vendors were having a brisk business selling wreaths, garlands, flowers.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Bombay High Court today asked a lower court here not to proceed with the trial in the suicide case of actor Jiah Khan till it hears and decides a petition filed by the CBI challenging the Maharashtra government's decision to appoint a special public prosecutor in the case.

"This is a matter that involves two agencies (the police and the CBI). There are larger issues involved. The high court will have to consider if the government can appoint a special prosecutor in a case where the prosecuting agency is the CBI," Justice A K Menon.

CBI counsel Hiten Venegaonkar told the court that the trial court was not even allowing the CBI prosecutor to argue or say something after the special prosecutor was appointed.

"The special prosecutor appointed is the same lawyer who represented the victim's mother, Rabia Khan, in her petition against the CBI probe in the case," Venegaonkar said.

"This issue will require consideration... Can the state government impose a special prosecutor on the CBI?" Justice Menon asked.

"We request the advocate general to appear in the matter next week. Till the next date of hearing, the sessions court shall not proceed with the case before it," he directed.

Jiah had committed suicide on June 3, 2013.

Her boyfriend, actor Sooraj, was arrested for abetting her suicide on June 10, 2013, but released on July 2 the same year after the high court granted him bail.

The case was transferred to the CBI by high court in July 2014 on Rabia's petition that the police was not probing it properly.

However, when the CBI filed a charge sheet in the case and booked Sooraj on abetment charges, Rabia again petitioned the court seeking a special investigation team (SIT) to be set up to probe the case afresh.

Rabia was against the CBI's concurrence with the findings of Mumbai police that it was a case of suicide and not a homicide.

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It is celebration time for the residents of the nondescript Maharishi Dayanand Vihar colony in Kalyanpur as one among them - Ram Nath Kovind - was rather unexpectedly announced today as the ruling NDA's presidential candidate.

Since the moment Kovind's name was announced in New Delhi, scores of BJP workers, especially those associated with the Kalyanpur Vypar Mandal descended here with crackers and sweets, dancing to drum beats.

Kovind, the 71-year-old BJP veteran, who rose from a modest background to become the Governor of Bihar and is now, in all likelihood, set to occupy the country's highest constitutional office.

Associates and neighbours in Maharishi Dayanand Vihar remember Kovind as a simple, soft spoken person who has maintained relations with those who have been with him.

"He comes from modest background and has achieved heights sheerly by the dint of his hardwork and dedication...He did LLB and had also appeared for the civil services exam but had to opt out due to medical reasons," Ashok Trivedi, who served as the two-time MP's PRO from 1996 to 2008, told PTI.

According to Trivedi, Kovind is a man of simple tastes.

"His likings are simple. He likes simple food and is not very fond of sweets. He has stayed in touch with all of us. He last visited my home in 2012 after coming to know of my wife's death," Trivedi recalled.

The presidential nominee, along with his wife Savita, visited this colony almost one-and-a-half month ago back.

Kusuma Rathore, in her sixties, has been the caretaker of Kovind's modest mini-HIG house for the past 15 years.

Kovind's two children, a son and daughter, are both married and well settled, she says, adding that during his visits here he has generally been staying either at the circuit house or some other government accommodation.

The residence of the man, who is set to be the next president of India, does not exhibit signs of power or pelf. Only a simple nameplate that would let a passerby know that it belongs to Ramnath Kovind, an MP.

According to Rathore, till only a few years back, the house was a bit secluded.

So much so that it was burgled thrice, the caretaker said.

Next door neighbour Devendra Juneja is a long time associate who went to the 'RSS shakha' with Kovind.

"It is a big day for me and for all those who had known Kovind...He is a very down to earth person and has always been concerned about all those around him," Juneja said.

In Paraukh, Kovind's native village, located in the Jhinjhak area of Kanpur Dehat, it's 'Diwali' time with fire crackers being burst and sweets being distributed.

Kovind's niece Hemlata, a teacher in a government school there, says, "I had met him in Patna about 10 days ago but till then there was no such thing in our notice..It is a matter of pride that our uncle will be the president.

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A lawyer for the free-spending son of Equatorial Guinea's longtime leader today called for a new postponement of his high-profile Paris trial for corruption.

As Teodorin Obiang's trial resumed after a six-month pause, his lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny requested a fresh delay pending the outcome of an appeal to the International Court of Justice to scrap the proceedings.

The tiny oil- and timber-rich west African nation questions France's right to put the president's son and current vice-president on trial, saying it violates his diplomatic immunity.

The 47-year-old, known for his taste for supercars, luxury homes and bespoke suits, is charged with plundering Equatorial Guinea's coffers to fund his jetset lifestyle in France.

He is suspected of using more than 100 million euros (USD 112 million) of state money -- proceeds of corruption and embezzlement, prosecutors allege -- to buy a six-storey mansion on Avenue Foch, one of the swankiest streets in Paris, as well as a collection of Italian supercars.

Obiang, who once again did not appear in court, denies the charges, saying the money came from legitimate sources.

When hearings began six months ago, the trial was postponed to give the defence more time to prepare its case.

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In the absence of a proper social security network in India, elderly women are more vulnerable to their male counterpart and what is more worrying is the fact that 10 per cent of them are living alone, a UN report said today.

Asserting that around 12.5 per cent of our population will be 60 years and older by 2030 and one fifth of India's population will be aged by 2050, the report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) stressed upon the need to start planning for the demographic transition.

It highlights multiple vulnerabilities being faced by the aged in India, especially in terms of health, income, as well as the social and psychological aspects.

Union social justice and empowerment minister Thaawarchand Gehlot released the report titled, "Caring for our elders: Early Responses India Ageing Report 2017".

Diego Palacios, UNFPA Country Representative India and Country Director Bhutan said, "Everyone has a part to play for the well-being of elderly, including the government civil society, communities, and families. I would really like to thank the MSJE, Government of India for their continuous support to our efforts in bringing out this report.

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The election of the mayor and deputy mayor of the Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) was deferred till tomorrow over lack of quorum as the Congress and CPI (M) councillors walked away after taking oath.

The election would be held tomorrow and the new mayor and deputy mayor would be elected even if some members stay absent, officials said.

A minimum quorum of two-thirds (26) members is required for the election of the mayor and his deputy but only 19 BJP backed councillors were present.

Immediately after D K Gupta, Director of Urban Development, administered oath to newly elected members and adjourned the House for tea break, the Congress and CPI(M) councillors left and did not return when the House reassembled.

Meanwhile the BJP backed councillors remained closeted inside the Bachat Bhawan, the meeting venue.

After waiting for some time, Gupta announced that the election cannot be held as the quorum was incomplete and adjourned the house till 11.00 AM tomorrow.

Earlier the BJP got a shot in the arm with the support of an independent Sanjay Parmar, elected from Kachhi Ghati ward, raising its strength to 19 in the 34-member house.

BJP rebel, Rakesh Kumar, who was elected from Panthaghati, had already announced support to BJP.

The BJP councillors had gone into hiding immediate after the results were announced and appeared only at the venue of the meeting.

All 19 councillors, escorted by state BJP chief Satpal Singh Satti and local BJP MLA Suresh Bharadwaj reached the venue together and party workers made a human chain to insulate them from any outside contact.

The BJP councillors were taken to some unknown destination as the party leaders feared poaching by the Congress. The BJP backed councillors again left for some unknown place after the meeting.

In the election held on June 16, 17 BJP backed and 12 Congress supported councillors had won. Two independents were taken by BJP into its fold, raising its strength to 19.

HPCC president Sukhvinder Sukkhu accused the BJP of keeping the councillors in captivity.

The Mayor and deputy Mayor would be elected tomorrow whether the Congress and CPI(M) attend the meeting or not, official sources said.

The Himachal High Court had directed the state government to hold the polls and ensure that the SMC was duly constituted by June 20.

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Britain and the EU have agreed on the priorities and timetable for Brexit negotiations after the first session of talks today, EU pointman Michel Barnier said.

"This first session was useful, we start off on the right foot as the clock is ticking," Barnier told a joint press conference with British counterpart David Davis.

"Today we agreed on dates, we agreed on organisation and we agreed on priorities for negotiations," he said after the talks at the European Commission in Brussels.

The two sides agreed to hold four further monthly rounds of talks, with the next on July 17, on the key issues of Britain's divorce from the bloc.

Barnier said they wanted to agree on the "main principles of the key challenges of the UK's withdrawal as soon as possible," including Britain's exit bill, the rights of EU citizens in Britain and the future of Northern Ireland.

The aim is to make sufficient progress to get leaders of the other 27 EU countries to agree to move on to talks on a future relationship with Britain, including a trade deal, he said.

"A fair deal is possible and far better than no deal," the French former EU commissioner said.

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When the stealthy hi-tech F-35 tears through Paris skies on its first-ever acrobatic displays this week, the fighter jet will also be sending a message: NATO allies, the United States is still on your side.

In an Associated Press interview at the opening today of the Paris Air Show, Brigadier General Select Todd Canterbury said the displays of the new jet are to "showcase the capability to all of our European partners and NATO allies" and "to reassure them that we are committed to NATO 100 percent and that we have got the capability to respond to any action necessary."



Canterbury, director of the Air Force F-35 Integration Office at the Pentagon, also spoke about recent problems that grounded F-35s at Luke Airforce Base in Arizona.

US President Donald Trump has called NATO obsolete and excoriated European allies last month for not spending enough on their own defenses.

Since May 2, F-35 pilots on five occasions reported symptoms of hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, he said. The Air Force says the F-35's backup oxygen system worked in each instance, and the pilot was able to land the plane safely.

"It could range to anything from headaches, to nausea, to color-blindness," he told the AP.

Planes were subsequently grounded at Luke. A team of engineers, test pilots, medics and others experts are "digging into this problem 24 hours a day," to try to identify the cause, Canterbury said.

"It could be lack of oxygen. It could be too much oxygen, too much carbon dioxide."



There have been similar incidents "across a number of bases, but not in clusters like we saw at Luke."



The local commander at Luke will decide when the planes can fly again, he said. Canterbury said the pilots will "start flying as soon as they can. They are ready."



Luke is a training base for F-35 pilots. Operational units have not had such issues, he said.

"It's still too early to tell the root cause," he said. "An airplane in development, such as this, will have teething problems."



The F-35 flew briefly at the Farnborough Air Show last year but this year in Paris it will have its debut aerial demonstrations.

The daily aerobatic shows by the F-35 promise to be spectacular, punctuated by the howl of its 40,000 pounds of thrust. "This is a beastly airplane," said chief F-35 test pilot Alan Norman.

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Fitch Ratings has assigned and Special Economic Zone's proposed senior unsecured US dollar notes an expected rating of 'BBB-(EXP)'.

The agency expects the proceeds to be primarily used for refinancing the company's outstanding debt and capital expenditure.

"The notes are rated at the same level as APSEZ's senior unsecured debt rating as they will constitute direct, unsubordinated and unsecured obligations of APSEZ. The final rating is contingent on the receipt of final documents conforming to information already received," Fitch Ratings said in a statement.

The rating of 'BBB' denotes capacity for repayment as adequate, but adverse conditions are more likely to affect the same.

The agency said it continues to see APSEZ as being well- positioned to benefit from India's growth and related cargo opportunities.

The company has significantly better flexibility in infrastructure renewal and expansion capex than some other rated peers in the region, which gives it the ability to generate strong free cash flows.

"The main risk to the rating is the management's commitment to contain outflows in terms of capex, M&A and advances," the statement said.

The management recovered all of the Rs 35 billion of related-party loans, advances and deposits outstanding in 2016-17, it said, adding that the terms of the proposed US dollar notes also limit any related-party transactions to the company's normal course of business.

"The stable outlook on the rating reflects the management's commitment to contain outflows. Failure to maintain investment discipline may lead to negative rating action," it cautioned.

APSEZ owns and operates 10 ports across the Indian coastline. Its largest port, Mundra, accounted for around 58 per cent of revenue and 62 per cent of cash operating profits in 2016-17 and is the largest port in India by cargo volumes handled.

Fitch expects consolidated cargo volumes to increase at a CAGR of 14 per cent over FY17-20.

"This will follow growth of 11 per cent in 2016-17, up from 5 per cent in 2015-16, when growth was reined in by the 8 per cent decline in coal volumes," it said.
Following are the top stories from the Eastern region at 1830 hrs.

CAL5 WB-GJM-LD SITUATION



Darjeeling: Security forces have patrolled the streets in the hills and internet services remained suspended for the second day today as Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters held protest march here demanding Gorkhaland and burnt effigies of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

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Darjeeling: The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) today expresses its "displeasure" with the Centre and questioned the absence of Darjeeling BJP MP S S Ahluwalia at the time of crisis.

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Kolkata: West Bengal Chief minister Mamata Banerjee today urged all concerned parties and stakeholders to attend an all-party meeting called by the state government in Siliguri on June 22 on the prevailing situation in Darjeeling.

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Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today expressed happiness over state Governor Ram Nath Kovind's candidature for the President's post, but stopped short of committing support to the NDA nominee.

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Kolkata: Virtually expressing her party's reservation about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, the NDA's pick for the post of president, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee today claimed that the Bihar Governor was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha in the past.

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Lakhisarai/Patna: The Bihar government today set up a Special Investigation Team to probe into the shocking incident involving a teenage girl, gangraped by six persons and thrown off a running train in Lakhisarai district.

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Darjeeling: Over 350 zoo inmates of a specialised zoo located in Darjeeling, known for its conservation and breeding programmes of highly endangered animals, are facing the heat of the ongoing shutdown with food supplies fast drying up.

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Tezpur: A herd of wild elephants today killed one person at Rangapara and intruded into Patanjali Mega Herbal Food Park near Assam Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) complex after destroying its boundary wall at Ghoramari in Assam's Sonitpur district, official sources said.

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Following are the top stories from the southern region at 2100 HRS.

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Chennai: Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal rules that a Compact Disc submitted by DMK in support of its demand for raising the issue of alleged horse-trading of some AIADMK MLAs is only a TV channel video footage and cannot be entertained as evidence.

MDS4 KA-MINISTER



Bengaluru: Opposition BJP demands immediate removal of Karnataka Forest Minister Ramanath Rai for allegedly directing a senior police official to take action against a local RSS functionary, following recent group clashes at Kalladka in Dakshina Kannada district.

MDS5 TN-FISHERMEN-CM



Chennai: Raising the issue of the continuing arrests of fishermen from the state by the Sri Lankan Navy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E K Palaniswami urges PM to take a "strong diplomatic stand" to prevent recurrence of such incidents.

MDS6 KA-MARS



Bengaluru: The country's low-cost Mars mission spacecraft that is on a rendezvous with the Red planetfor an extended period completes 1,000 earth days in itsorbit



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Chennai: Tamil Nadu Assembly adopts GST bill amid a walkout by opposition DMK, which demands that it be referred to a select committee and taken up later for discussion.

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Kasaragod (Ker): Renaming of a road in Kerala's Kasargod district as Gaza Street, seen as a reference to the disputed strip of land between Israel and Egypt, draws the attention of police and intelligence agencies.

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Kochi: A day after caning demonstrators protesting against setting up of an LPG import terminal here, police today says 'forces with extremist nature' are behind the locals' stir against the LPG terminal project.

MES4 TN-NET-AICTE



Coimbatore: With some states opposing introduction of National Eligibility Test for admission to engineering courses, it is unlikely to be held next year but can become become a reality in 2019-'20, says AICTE Chairman Anil D Sahasrabudhe



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Chennai: The Election Commission today tells the Madras High Court that an FIR had been lodged in April itself on the basis of its report on electoral malpractices before the suspended bypoll for R K Nagar assembly seat.

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Chennai: Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeks time to reply to a plea by DMK seeking probe by the CBI and DRI into the alleged pay-offs to some ruling AIADMK MLAs for supporting his government's trust motion last February.

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Puducherry: The opposition AINRC in Puducherry extends support to NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

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Kanyakumari: A Ghana national is detained forcarrying fake British currency in his baggage.

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Hyderabad: A 35-year-old woman, working in the local branch of a US-headquartered bank, is found dead under mysterious circumstances at her residence here.

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: A Ghana national was detained here today for carrying fake British currency in his baggage, police said.

During a check of bus passengers at Amaravilai checkpost, police found that Rope Edison, hailing from Ghana, had British currency in his bag.

Police said Edison, who was on his way to Thiruvananthapuram via Kanyakumari by bus, was carrying equipment to print currency notes.

Initial investigation revealed that he was part of an international gang involved in smuggling and printing of fake currency notes.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Bihar government today set up a Special Investigation Team to probe into the shocking incident involving a teenage girl, gangraped by six persons and thrown off a running train in Lakhisarai district.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said that an SIT was formed by the district police to probe the incident while one of the accused persons was arrested.

Terming the incident as a 'heinous crime', Kumar told reporters that efforts were on to arrest all the accused persons, two of whom have been identified.

The culprits would not be spared, he said.

The minor girl of Lakhochak village was gangraped when she had gone out of her home on Friday night to answer the call of nature, Chanan police station in-charge Sunil Kumar Jha, who is a member of the SIT, said.

The accused then took her to nearby Banshipur station, boarded a local train and threw her off the running train at Kiul station, Jha said, adding that her relatives found her lying by the railway tracks next morning.

She was taken to district Sadar hospital from where she was referred her to Patna Medical College and Hospital.

Hospital sources said that she suffered huge blood loss and a fracture in her pelvic region.

The girl gave a statement from her hospital bed to the police identifying two of the accused.

One of them was arrested yesterday from Lakhochak village, Jha said.

The accused, who claimed he was a minor, was remanded to judicial custody.

The other accused identified by the rape victim was also accused in the murder case of his elder brother's wife last year and was absconding in that case too, Jha said.

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A bride here refused to enter into wedlock after finding out that the groom's family lied that they live in their own house in Delhi.

The bride and her family were furious when they learnt from the groom's relatives that he was resided in a rented house.

At Rabupura last night, the marriage could not be solemnised.

The elders from the locality tried their best to convince both the sides but in vain.

The groom's family then lodged a complaint with the police and a team reached there and tried to broker a settlement.

But once the police team left, the bride's father refused to marry off his daughter.

The groom along with the marriage party went back dejected.

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Gujarat Governor O P Kohli today gave his assent to the state GST Bill and two other related legislations, said officials.

These three bills were passed by the Assembly during a special session convened last month to pave the way for implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the state.

"The governor today gave his assent to all the three bills related to GST," said a senior official of the state Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Department.

During the day-long session on May 9, the Assembly had passed Gujarat GST Bill, Gujarat Value-Added Tax (Amendment) Bill and Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Bill.

On April 6, Parliament had passed four legislations to pave the way for nation-wide roll-out of the new indirect tax regime from July 1.

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Tamil Nadu Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao today referred the DMK's plea of action into alleged horse-trading involving AIADMK MLAs and a CD to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal for "appropriate action".

The DMK memorandum and the CD were also referred to Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan, a Raj Bhavan statement said.

The governor's action comes two days after the DMK-led opposition knocked on the doors of Raj Bhavan with a plea for a fresh vote of confidence, besides a probe by the CBI and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) or the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to "unearth the money trail and offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act".

The opposition parties had also urged the governor to dismiss the state government.

The development comes against the backdrop of the speaker today ruling that the CD submitted by the DMK, alleging horse-trading involving certain AIADMK MLAs, only contained footage aired by a TV channel and thus, could not be regarded as evidence.

The issue could not be allowed to be raised in the House on the basis of media reportage -- whether print or audio- visual -- the speaker said, adding that the CD submitted by DMK MLA K Pichandi only contained footage aired by a television channel.

The Raj Bhavan statement said DMK working president and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly M K Stalin had led a delegation to Rao on Saturday.

The opposition, also comprising the Congress and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), both DMK allies, had submitted the memorandum and the CD to the governor "over the revelations" made by AIADMK MLAs S S Saravanan and Kanakaraj, it added.

"As per the orders of the Governor of Tamil Nadu, a copy of the memorandum and the CD were referred to the Speaker, Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Chief Secretary for appropriate action," it said.

A recent "sting operation" carried out by a TV channel, had purportedly showed Saravanan making claims of horse- trading ahead of the crucial February 18 trust vote, which was won by Chief Minister K Palaniswami amid a split in his party, the AIADMK.

Saravanan, has, however, denied that it was his voice in the footage, though he has admitted that he was being seen in it.

Raj Bhavan said today Stalin had sought the governor's "intervention", besides seeking a fresh vote of confidence. It recalled his demands for a CBI or ED probe to unearth the corruption and the money trail respectively.

In the memorandum, Raj Bhavan said, Stalin had mentioned about his moving the Madras High Court challenging the validity of the February 18 trust vote and seeking a fresh floor test.

In the "latest development", Stalin has also filed a miscellaneous petition praying for a CBI investigation and a probe by the DRI into the "revelations" made in the sting operation, it said.

"All these requests made by Stalin in the memorandum submitted to the governor are matters already pending before the High Court of Madras," the release added.

The first three days of the ongoing session of the Assembly saw the DMK make a bid in vain to take up the issue of "horse-trading" involving AIADMK MLAs for a debate.

On June 14, the DMK members were evicted en masse over the issue while they staged walkouts on the next two days.

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Hafeez Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) said it will launch a campaign in "solidarity" with the people of Kashmir on July 8, the day when Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed last year.

"The drive will continue till July 19 during which big gatherings, conferences and rallies will be held across (Pakistan)," said JuD acting chief Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki.

Makki, a brother-in-law of Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been looking after the affairs of JuD in the absence of Saeed, under house arrest in Lahore since January 30 under Pakistan's anti-terrorism law.

The JuD operates freely in Pakistan, disguising itself under different names after being banned or cracked upon. Its chief Saeed and his four aides have been detained on the orders of Pakistani government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and the country's security.

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The police seized 544 grams of heroin worth Rs 18 lakh from two persons at a checkpost in Champhai district bordering Myanmar.

One of the man arrrested in connection with yesterday's seizure was a Myanmarese national, the police said today.

The second man was a resident of Darlung village in Mamit district bordering Tripura.

The two persons were booked under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.

Champhai district police also seized 400 sticks of gelatin and wild medicinal plant known as 'Anchiri' at the same Khankawn checkpost last night.

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India today pitched for a greater engagement with BRICS nations which have steadily expanded its agenda from financial matters to security and counter terrorism issues facing the international community.

Addressing the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting here, Minister of State for External Affairs General Y K Singh said BRICS countries have reached significant understanding on security and counter terrorism issues.

"Besides cooperating on financial issues, the BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion," he said.

"BRICS joint working group mechanism has concluded in May 2017," Singh said, adding the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries are due to meet next month ahead of this year's summit of the bloc to be held in China's Xiamen city in September.

"In Delhi meeting last year they (NSAs) had reached significant understanding on security and counter terrorism matters," Singh, who represented External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at the meeting, said.

Swaraj could not attend the meeting due to health issues.

Singh, who held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi yesterday, said India attached great importance to BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and "(we) continue to work closely with all our partners with mutual trust, respect and transparency to further enhance our bonds".

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid special emphasis on people-to-people exchanges in the BRICS process," he said.

"I reiterate India attaches its utmost importance to its engagement with BRICS. Our Prime Minimiser had repeatedly underscored the importance of BRICS in the international arena and stressed the importance of intra BRICS cooperation," Singh said.

Besides Wang and Singh, Sergey Lavrov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa and Alosio Nunes Ferreira of Brazil attended the BRICS foreign ministers meeting which is expected to finalise the agenda for the Xiamen summit.

In his meeting with Singh yesterday, Wang said China and India are both major countries with great influence and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large, state-run Xinhua agency reported.

Talking to other BRICS foreign minsters, he called for closer cooperation among the BRICS countries.

In the bilateral meeting with South African foreign minister Maite, Wang said BRICS countries, faced with increasing uncertainties in the international situation, should unite more closely and play a leading role in building a community of shared future for the mankind.

China stands ready to step up coordination with South Africa to strengthen the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as well as the BRICS mechanism, continuously expand the strategic cooperation between the two countries, and safeguard the common interests of the two nations and all other developing countries.

During his meeting with Lavrov, Wang said China is willing to deepen coordination with Russia to enhance strategic trust, boost economic and financial cooperation, increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges and strengthen the cooperation mechanism among BRICS countries.

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India is planning to organise a meet of startups of the South Asian region for the exchange of new ideas and promoting interaction among them.

Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also sought views of Indian startups to hold this programme.

"I will be working towards having a SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) country meet for startups. There are so many complementarities among us in the South Asian region," she said while launching a startup India hub portal here.

She said the event can act as a platform for exchanging which can be mutually beneficial and can be worked out.

She asked startups to give ideas about the people who can be invited for the meet.

If the ministry gets feedback and suggestions in the next couple of months, by December the meet can happen in which SAARC country startups can come to India and share ideas.

SAARC members are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Further, to promote the startup ecosystem in the country, Sitharaman would write to all the Member of Parliaments to help budding entrepreneurs.

Citing an example, the minister said she used her Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund to create a co-working space for startups in Mangalore.

"I will write to all the MPs...(particularly) in districts where people are approaching their MPs asking for space and where there is a demand of startups," he added.

The ministry is also planning to work in certain districts to identify schools and help them qualify to get tinkering labs under the Atal Innovation Mission.

She added that the ministry is working on modalities to facilitate the exchange of ideas between startups of India and Germany.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria today in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called "terror bases".

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were "in retaliation" for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS.

"Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed," the statement said.

It said the attack targeted "a command base.... Of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor", Syria's oil-rich eastern province.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, vowed to avenge the bloodshed.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was "promoting terrorist groups" in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of "volunteer" fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syria's conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.

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Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al- Abadi arrived in Saudi Arabia today on a tour that will also take him to Riyadh's rival Iran and to Kuwait.

His visit comes with the Gulf region in turmoil after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other allies cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago.

They accuse Doha of supporting extremist groups, including some backed by Iran, "that aim to destabilise the region".

Kuwait, which did not follow its neighbours in severing diplomatic relations with Qatar, has been trying to mediate.

Abadi is to hold talks with Saudi King Salman, Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Iranian president Hassan Rouhani during his tour of the region.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef greeted Abadi when he landed in the Red Sea city of Jeddah for the one-day visit, state media reported.

Abadi, from his country's largest Shiite political bloc, arrives at a time of heightened tensions between Sunni-ruled Saudi Arabia and its Shiite-dominated rival Iran.

Saudi Arabia cut ties with Iran early last year after years of strained relations.

Riyadh has long expressed concern about Iran's "interference" in the region, including through Iraq's paramilitary Hashed al-Shaabi which has played a major role in reclaiming parts of Iraq seized by the Islamic State group.

Gulf states are also reported to have been angered by a ransom allegedly paid by Doha to Tehran-linked militias earlier this year to secure the release of a hunting party, including members of the Qatari royal family, kidnapped in southern Iraq.

Abadi has supported efforts to improve strained Baghdad- Riyadh ties but the road to normalisation has been rocky.

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir travelled to Baghdad in February for talks with Abadi, on the first visit of its kind since 2003.

In 2016, Thamer al-Sabhan became the first Saudi ambassador to Iraq in a quarter century, after ties were cut following ex-president Saddam Hussein's 1990 invasion of Kuwait.

But he left amid controversy the same year.

Although Saudi Arabia supports the fight against IS Sunni jihadists some countries, including Iraq, have argued it needs to do more to help defeat the extremists and their ideology.

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Ireland's first Indian-origin Prime Minister Leo Varadkar today met his UK counterpart Theresa May for bilateral talks during his first visit to 10 Downing Street amid political uncertainty in Britain.

The Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) said Ireland was not in favour of an economic border between the two countries following Brexit.

"While there will be a political border between our two countries, there should not be an economic one and any border that does exist should be invisible," Varadkar, the first openly gay prime minister of Ireland, said following his talks with May.

He also offered condolences on behalf of the Irish people and the Irish government to all those affected by the recent tragedies in London.

"Everyone in Ireland knows someone, a friend or a relative, who lives in London. When there is an attack on London, we in Ireland feel it is almost an attack on us as well," Varadkar said.

May also expressed the hope that Britain's exit from the European Union (EU) would not impact relations with EU-member country Ireland.

"No one wants to see trade between our two countries diminished. I remain committed to finding a practical solution to the land border in Northern Ireland after Brexit," she said.

In one of his first major bilateral visits, the Irish Taoiseach said he had also been "very reassured" about the Conservative party's proposed agreement with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and its feared impact on the impartiality of the British and Irish governments in the region.

In a joint press conference at Downing Street, he said as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, the British and Irish governments should not be too close to unionism or nationalism.

The ruling Tories need the backing of the 10 DUP MPs to form its minority government following a hung Parliament verdict in the June 8 snap general election.

"I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom," Varadkar said today prior to his first visit to Downing Street.

"Among other things, we will discuss Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved government and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens on trade and the economy," said Varadkar, an Indian-origin doctor and the Dublin-born son of Mumbai-born Ashok Varadkar and Irish mother Miriam.

There has been political uncertainty in the UK as some media reports claimed that May has "10 days to save her job" as some of her party lawmakers are secretly plotting her ouster.

After her flawed decision to call a snap general election saw the Conservatives lose their narrow majority earlier this month, May has now come under fire for her lacklustre response to the Grenfell Tower fire disaster.

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Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar today congratulated Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind on being nominated as the NDA's candidate for the post of president.

Apart from Khattar, the state's Agriculture Minister Om Parkash Dhankar also congratulated Kovind, an official release said here.

Earlier today, BJP had named Dalit leader and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA candidate for the top post.

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America Ferrara may be a part of comedy TV series "Superstore" but she says she does not consider herself as a comedic actress and it is watching her co-stars in the sitcom that helps her with the performance.

The Justin Spitzer-created series is about a group of employees working at a big-box store.

Besides Ferrara, the show also stars "Saturday Night Live" performer Ben Feldman, Canadian comic actress Lauren Ash and comedian Colton Dunn among others.

"Comedy is really great. Our cast has many true blue comic actors. I don't really consider myself as a comedic actor. I feel like the space is enriching for me, to work with all these actors who come from the world of comedy. I have learnt a lot about the realm of comedy by watching them," Ferrara told PTI over phone from Los Angeles.

The 33-year-old actress, who rose to fame after starring in "Ugly Betty" TV series, has been a part of dramas like "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 1 and 2", "The Dry Land" crime drama "End of Watch" and romantic comedy "Our Family Wedding".

"I personally don't see myself as a comedic or dramatic actress. My background has always been pretty diverse in terms of tone and the type of things I have been involved in."



Ferrara not only acts but also produces "Superstore", which airs in India on Colors Infinity.

The actress says she does not find it difficult to handle both her producing duties and acting as she is blessed to have a collaborative team, who enjoy the creative process.

"It wasn't challenging at all. Ours is a very integrated collaborative cast. We are always talking and collaborating. The direction is good, the characters are interesting.

"It is a collaborative process. I enjoy it very much to be part of the creative process before shooting the episodes in front of the camera," she says.

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Tata Group and American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin today signed an "unprecedented" deal to jointly produce the combat-proven F-16 fighter jets in India, boosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan ahead of his first summit with US President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, Lockheed will shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to India without directly affecting American jobs, a campaign pledge of Trump who has vowed to put "America First".

The deal announced on the sidelines of the Paris Airshow between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Lockheed is ideally suited to meet the Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs.

The two companies said this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports New Delhi's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in the country under the 'Make in India' initiative.

"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

The company said the "unprecedented" F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

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Global sales management consulting firm LyncBiz has signed an agreement with Hyderabad -based company WhiteBoard Ventures to tap the growing digital learning market in India.

Through this association, LyncBiz will enable WhiteBoard to put up their Btoppers programme on Claned - a cloud-based personal learning platform, a release said here.

"The partnership with LyncBiz will help us use Claned's unique Artificial Intelligence platform, thus enabling students across India to prepare for the BToppers programme for their regular studies and exams.

"We are targeting to enrol more than 1,00,000 students over the next one year," Whiteboard Managing Director Madhavi Varalwar said.

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Birla group firm earns USDA biobased certification



Grasim Industries, the flagship company of Aditya Birla Group, today said it has earned the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified biobased product label for its three products - viscose, modal and excel.

"The USDA biobased certification is another milestone reached in our sustainability journey and strengthening our belief that sustainability is at the core of our business strategy," Grasim Industries Managing Director Dilip Gaur said in a release here.

Third-party verification for a product's biobased content is administered through the USDA BioPreferred Program.

The USDA certified biobased product label displays a product's biobased content, which is the portion of a product that comes from a renewable source such as plant, animal, marine or forestry feedstocks.

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The Maharashtra government has decided to come up with a beach shack policy to promote beach tourism along the coastline, develop the coastal areas, generate revenue and employment.

Beach shacks will be temporary sheds, where basic amenities like toilets, furniture, fire cover, first aid kits would be provided by shack owners.

To set up a shack, state will allot licenses to the locals.

"Shacks will also provide tourists with shower, changing rooms, lockers, food stalls, drinking water facilities, beach safety instruments and a small stall of the tourist information centre," Minister of State for Tourism Madan Yerawar said.

"The state government intends to implement a beach shack policy on the lines of neighbouring Goa," he said.

"The state has a big coastal area like Tarkarli, Shirola-Velagar, Murud, Dapoli, Ganpatipule, Alibaug, Dive-Agar, Bordi and others which can be developed as tourist spots with coastal amenities and facilities like shacks, umbrella or huts," said Yerawar.

A senior official said that various departments are involved in this project.

"Home department needs to handle safety and security related issues, cleanliness and garbage disposal needs local urban body that falls under urban development department while village council will be handled by rural development department.

"There are health related facilities to provide, collector office, environment department, revenue, maritime board, ports and also excise if liquor is to be served," he said.

Yerawar, minister of state for tourism held a meeting with various department officials and discussed the issue today.

The minister instructed tourism department officials to frame the policy involving other departments and appoint private consultants if needed.

"The minister wants the policy along with the comprehensive beach tourism development plan of the coastal area to be ready in a month to be tabled before the state cabinet meeting to get a final nod," said an official.

The state has a 720 km long coastline spread over seven districts -- Mumbai, Mumbai suburban, Palghar, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg.

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The Sensex made a smart recovery of 255 points to close at a new peak of 31,312 today and the Nifty reclaimed the key 9,600 level, riding piggyback on GST headway and expectations of reforms by Sebi.

The markets saw a flurry of buying as investors sensed NPA resolution gaining traction after the Reserve Bank asked lenders to initiate bankruptcy proceedings against large defaulters.

Positive global cues emerging from other Asian markets that ended higher in tune with weekened record closing at the Wall Street propped up the markets here. A firm opening at European shares in a reaction to a strong victory for President Emmanual Macron's centrist party in French parliamentary elections, as Britain begins formal Brexit talks, buoyed trading sentiments here.

"The Market is back to the buoyed sentiment due to relaxation in return filing timeline to minimize the impact of transition to GST. On the other hand, RBI's insistence that the banks start the bankruptcy proceedings which will improve bank's asset quality & strengthen the balance sheet, led the index to climb by 1 per cent," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd.

After a strong opening, the BSE 30-share index hit a high of 31,362.15, before closing at a new record high of 31,311.57, up 255.17 points, or 0.82 per cent, breaking its previous record closing of 31,309.49 on June 5.

The gauge had lost 99.51 points in the previous two sessions.

The 50-share Nifty too scaled a high of 9,673.30 before ending 69.50 points up, or 0.72 per cent, at 9,657.55. Market rundown by Mr. Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd for your perusal.

Risk-on improved after the GST Council yesterday relaxed return filing rules for businesses for the first two months of the rollout of the new indirect tax regime even as it stuck to the July 1 launch date.

Buying activity gathered momentum after the Reserve Bank urged lenders to initiate bankcruptcy proceedings against large loan defaulters, brokers said



Banking stocks hogged the limelight led by SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank that extended gains, rising by up to 1.94 per cent.

Other gainers that also supported the key indices were Adani Ports (3.05 per cent), PowerGrid (1.67 per cent), L&T (1.59 per cent), Reliance Industries (1.53 per cent), TCS (1.44 per cent), Hero MotoCorp (1.39 per cent), ITC Ltd (1.35 per cent), Asian Paint (0.92 per cent), HDFC Ltd (0.89 per cent), Cipla (0.39 per cent) and Bajaj Auto (0.39 per cent).

Among the BSE sectors, metal jumped 1.89 per cent, followed by banking 0.96, capital goods 0.74 per cent, FMCG 0.72 per cent, oil&gas 0.45 per cent, power 0.43 per cent, PSU 0.29 per cent and auto 0.25 per cent.

Broader markets looked mixed as the mid-cap index rose 0.07 per cent, while small-cap index was down 0.08 per cent.

Shares of Dredging Corporation of India rose 2.08 per cent to Rs 705.30 on buzz of stake sale by the government in the company.

Meanwhile, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 890.91 crore on Friday, as per provisional data. However, the point of worry was foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) who sold stocks worth Rs 764.48 crore.

Globally, in the Asian region, key indices in Japan rose 0.62 per cent, Hong Kong was up 1.16 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.68 per cent, South Korea was up 0.38 per cent and Taiwan ended 0.92 per cent higher.

European indices were trading higher in their late morning session.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain today said Meghalaya government needs to tackle anti-railway protests and the Centre will go ahead with the construction of railway infrastructure in the state.

"The government of Meghalaya should take interest (in tackling anti-railway protests). This is a local problem, so they have to tackle it and it is their duty," Gohain told reporters here on the sidelines of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana in the state.

"We are very keen to bring railways upto Shillong, but for that we need support from the government and the public," he said.

Stating that the Centre will go ahead with the constructions of railways in the state, Gohain said "We are trying to convince the people that it will not harm, but help them. They will get a direct link from here to the entire country."



"It will be more beneficial for the people of Meghalaya once rail comes to the state," the Minister said



Asked if the truckers' lobby is behind the anti-railway protest in the state, Gohain said "The truckers' association may be behind it."



Construction of railway infrastructure has been halted in the Khasi Jaintia Hills region following an arson attack led by Khasi Students' Union (KSU) activists at Ronghona village in Ri-Bhoi district last month.

In the attack, damages worth over Rs 70 lakh have been estimated by the railway authorities, following which work was halted temporarily.

The KSU has aired its opposition to the extension of railway lines in the state capital and said there will be an influx of outsiders in the absence of any checking mechanism.

Three other anti-railway groups will observe a sit-in protest on June 21 against the ruling Congress government for facilitating extension of railways in the state.

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The family of Mohsin Shaikh, killed in 2014 allegedly by Hindu Rashtra Sena members, has sought appointment of Rohini Salian as special public prosecutor in the case.

The demand came days after noted lawyer Ujjwal Nikam withdrew as special public prosecutor from the case.

The family has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis seeking Salian's appointment as special public prosecutor in the case.

In 2016, Salian had withdrawn from 2008 Malegaon blast case alleging that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had asked her to "go soft on the accused" in the case.

Shaikh (28), a software engineer, was attacked and killed on June 2, 2014 allegedly by Hindu Rashtra Sena members in Hadapsar area.

"In view of the cancellation of appointment of Advocate Nikam as special public prosecutor in the Mohsin murder case, we have written a letter to Fadnavis, seeking appointment of Advocate Salian in the case," said Mohsin's father Sadique Shaikh.

Shaikh, while talking to PTI, said he has already spoken to Salian and she is positive about appearing in the case further.

"So we request the CM to give confirmation to our request," he said.

The state government last month cancelled appointment of Nikam as prosecutor in the case based on his request.

A notification by Maharashtra's Law and Judiciary Department said it had withdrawn its order appointing Nikam as special public prosecutor, on his request, in the case pending before a Pune court.

After the development, Sadique Shaikh had requested Nikam to reconsider his decision.

Around 20 people, including HRS chief Dhananjay Desai, were arrested in connection with the case.

The Bombay High Court granted bail to three accused -- Vijay Gambhire, Ganesh Yadav and Ajay Lalge -- on January 17 while observing that the trio seemed to be provoked in the name of religion.

Police had suspected that the incident was a fallout of violent protests in Pune over derogatory pictures of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji and the late Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray on a social networking site.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin today appointed a new ambassador to Turkey following the killing of Moscow's previous envoy Andrei Karlov in December.

In a decree posted in an official database, Putin gave an order to "appoint Alexei Yerkhov as ... Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Turkey."



Yerkhov, 57, previously worked with Karlov as the Russian consul in Istanbul. He currently heads the foreign ministry's crisis centre which issues official travel advice.

Karlov, 62, was shot nine times at point-blank range by a 22-year-old policeman at the opening of a photo exhibition on December 19. He died on the spot.

The assailant, Mevlut Mert Altintas, shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is greatest) and "Don't forget Aleppo" as he opened fire, before being shot dead by Turkish guards.

The Turkish government blamed the murder on the group of US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, on whom they also blame the failed coup attempt against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last July.

Moscow has said it is too early to say who was behind the murder.

The street in Ankara where the Russian embassy is located has since been named after Karlov.

Turkey and Russia stand on opposite sides of the conflict in Syria as Moscow backs the government of Bashar al-Assad while Ankara supports the rebels.

However the two countries have spearheaded peace talks in Astana, and agreed to set up safe zones in the country.

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Handset major Motorola is accelerating its efforts to cash in on the affordable smartphone (Rs 6,000-10,000) segment in India with the launch of 'Moto C Plus' for Rs 6,999.

Earlier this month, Motorola had launched Moto C for Rs 5,999, which is the cheapest device in Motorola India's current portfolio.

"The USD 100-150 segment is the second largest in the Indian smartphone market. Over 35 million units have been sold in the category in the last four quarters and is growing at 25 per cent year-on-year. We see a lot of potential and therefore, we are expanding our presence in this segment," Motorola Mobility India MD Sudhin Mathur told PTI.

Besides, 85 per cent of smartphones sold online in India are in this price category, he added.

Mathur said Moto C Plus will be available online, while Moto C will be available through retail stores across the country.

Motorola -- which is a part of Lenovo's Mobile Business Group (MBG) -- had started its Indian operations by selling exclusively through e-commerce.

However, it is now working on expanding its sales through brick-and-mortar retail stores as well. India is among the top three markets, along with the US and Brazil, for Lenovo MBG.

India is one of the fastest growing smartphone markets globally. Driven by increasing data consumption and falling data prices, a huge number of feature phone users are also migrating to smartphones and seek affordable devices.

Players like Samsung, Micromax, Xiaomi and Lava have a number of smartphones in their portfolios, especially in the affordable segment.

According to research firm IDC, Lenovo -- along with Motorola -- had a 9.5 per cent share of the Indian smartphone market in the January-March 2017 quarter.

Motorola also has the 'E series' that has products in the affordable category.

Moto E and Moto G (Motorola's flagship series) account of a majority of Motorola's sales in India.

The Moto C Plus will be available exclusively on Flipkart, priced at Rs 6999 from June 20.

The Android Nougat-powered Moto C Plus features a 5-inch display, up to 1.3GHz quad-core processor, 2GB RAM, 16GB internal memory (expandable up to 32GB), 8MP rear and 2MP front camera and 4,000 mAh removable battery.

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Hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani has said that there was no threat to the annual Amarnath Yatra, scheduled to begin later this month, stressing that the pilgrims were "our revered guests", who would be received as per the age-old traditions.

"The terror threat to the upcoming yatra is a brazen lie and aimed at maligning the freedom movement. Kashmiris are not against any religion or its followers. However, they are pursuing a legitimate struggle for their fundamental rights," he said in a statement issued here late last night.

Geelani said the people of Kashmir, while continuing with the age-old tradition of providing the best hospitality to the pilgrims, have always been friendly and generous to the visitors, particularly the Amarnath yatris.

"The yatra has been going on for decades and the people here have treated the pilgrims with unique hospitality. They have always been hospitable, decent and received the pilgrims as their guests," he said.

The separatist leader assured the pilgrims that there was no threat to them and alleged that the reports of threat were the "adverse propaganda launched by the Indian media".

Referring to the situation prevailing in the Valley in 2008, 2010 and 2016, he said even in those circumstances, the people, despite restrictions, received the pilgrims with open arms and provided shelter and food to them.

"It is our age-old tradition and even in the future, we will follow this with the same spirit and receive the yatris as our revered guests," he said.

The yatra is scheduled to commence from July 29.

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New legal action by the EU against eastern member states for refusing to take their share of refugees shows how the worst migration crisis since World War II still divides the continent.

The images from a crisis entering its third year have become shockingly familiar: capsized boats, refugees teargassed in squalid border camps, a Syrian boy's tiny body on an empty beach.

Here AFP looks at the numbers that tell a deeper story. The basic facts are stark: Since 2014, more than 1.6 million people have arrived in Europe by sea while 13,500 have died on the way.

The migration crisis has no official starting point but statistics from the International Organization of Migration (IOM) offer some chronological yardsticks.

Following gradual yearly increases since 2011, 2014 marked a first turning point with 170,100 people landing on Italian shores and 43,518 on Greek coastlines, up from 42,900 and 11,447 respectively the previous year.

But it was in 2015 that the situation took on dizzying proportions. The IOM registered 1,011,712 arrivals by sea in Europe, including 853,650 on Greek shores, with the peak in arrivals hit in October, and 153,842 on Italy's coastline.

Among the arrivals in Greece in 2015, more than half -- 56.L per cent -- were Syrian, while 24.3 per cent were from Afghanistan and 10.3 per cent were from Iraq.

Most came to Greece across the Aegean Sea from Turkey.

While the EU struggled to forge a collective response and help Greece cope with the influx, most of the migrants trekked along the so-called Balkan route toward wealthy northern European countries like Germany and Sweden.

The arrivals on the Italian coast in 2015 came on the central Mediterranean route, mainly from sub-Saharan African countries: 39,162 Eritreans, 22,237 Nigerians, 12,433 Somalis and 8,932 Sudanese.

There was a sharp drop in migrant arrivals in Greece in 2016, with the IOM registering a total of 363,401 arrivals on Greek and Italian shores, about one-third as many as the previous year.

In Greece, 173,614 arrived by sea, a drop of nearly 80 percent, reflecting the combined impact of a controversial migrant deal between Turkey and the EU and the nearly total closure of the Balkans route.

The trend is continuing in 2017, with just 7,699 arrivals registered by the IOM in Greece during the first five months of the year.

But the lull in Aegean crossings is tenuous as Turkey is increasingly at odds with the EU and has threatened to scrap the migrant deal over European criticism of its crackdown after an attempted coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Italy meanwhile has seen arrivals continue apace, hitting a new record in 2016 with 181,436.

So far this year, figures confirm that the central Mediterranean route has once again become, by far, the main channel to Europe.

Italy has registered more than 65,000 arrivals since January, up nearly 20 per cent from the same period last year.

While the migration crisis is often portrayed as a crisis facing the EU's roughly 510 million people, smaller countries outside the region have received a far higher proportion of arrivals.

Turkey hosts 3.2 million refugees, Lebanon shelters more than one million and Jordan is home to 660,000 according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The vast majority are Syrians.

Behind the migrant influx are human dramas.

In total, nearly 14,000 people have died or disappeared trying to reach Europe in the last four years: 3,283 in 2014, 3,784 in 2015, 5,098 in 2016 and already more than 1,800 since January 1.

Moreover, among the asylum seekers in the EU in 2015 and 2016, around a third were minors, according to the European Commission.

The EU police agency Europol said in January last year that more than 10,000 unaccompanied migrant children had disappeared in Europe during the preceding 18 to 24 months, adding that many may have been victims of sexual abuse and other assaults by organised crime networks.

EU countries had a record number of asylum applications in 2015, with nearly 1.26 million applying for the first time, after 562,000 in 2014, according to Eurostat. These amount to the total requests in member states, which can include people who applied in several countries.

In 2016, EU countries granted protection to about 710,400 people, more than twice the figure of 2015, according to Eurostat.

Some 55 per cent of the total in 2016 were listed as refugees, while 37 per cent were placed in the category of "subsidiary protection," or those who fall short of the criteria for refugee status but who are in danger in their home countries. Another eight per cent qualified for "authorisation to stay for humanitarian reasons".

Germany topped the EU in granting protection to the greatest number of people last year, with Eurostat reporting 445,210 positive decisions, or three times more than in 2015.

Much further behind were Sweden, with 69,350 positive decisions, Italy (35,450), France (35,170) and Austria (31,750). Syrians topped the list of people benefitting from protection in EU countries last year at 405,600, or 57 per cent of the total, ahead of Iraqis (65,800) and Afghans (61,800).

The rate of positive responses to asylum requests for one of the three statuses stood at 61 per cent on first request, and 17 per cent on appeal, but there were wide disparities depending on the nationality of the applicant.

The rates rose to 98.1 per cent on average for Syrians, 92.5 per cent for Eritreans and 63.5 per cent for Iraqis.

The rate was far lower for other nationalities, like 17.4 per cent for Pakistanis, 5.2 per cent for Algerians and 3.1 per cent for Albanians.

Asylum seekers whose applications are rejected are supposed to be sent back to their country of origin, as are new arrivals who do not ask for asylum and are considered economic migrants.

About 305,365 people last year received an administrative or judicial order to return to their home country, up from 286,725 in 2015 and 251,986 in 2014, according to Frontex.

And 176,223 people were effectively deported in 2016, including 79,608 via a forced departure, Frontex said.

Topping the list for forced departures were Albanians at 19,482, Moroccans at 7,506 and Kosovars at 4,916. Ukrainians, Iraqis and Indians topped the category of people who chose to leave voluntarily.

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Pakistan said today that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has "condemned" the alleged "use of force" by the Indian security forces in Kashmir.

OIC Secretary General Dr Yousef A Al-Othaimeen expressed his sorrow over the recent incidents resulting in the death and injury of several Kashmiris, the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement.

"He condemned the continued use of force by the Indian security forces and called upon India to immediately stop these excessive acts of systematic human rights violations of the Kashmiri people," the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Opposition parties will meet on June 22 to decide on fielding a consensus candidate for the presidential election, with the NDA declaring Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its nominee for the post, Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal today said.

"The parties will meet and decide whether or not to field a consensus opposition candidate for the July 17 presidential election," he said.

CPI national secretary D Raja said Union ministers Rajnath Singh and M Venkaiah Naidu, who were part of the BJP's three-member panel formed to hold discussions and build a consensus on a presidential candidate, had not propose any name.

"Now, they have named a person with RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. A meeting will be held soon to discuss the same," he said.

Raja said Naidu spoke to him over the phone after BJP chief Amit Shah announced Kovind's name and sought the CPI's support for his candidature.

AICC general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad said the non-NDA parties will discuss the issue before taking any step.

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Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu today said the suggestions of the opposition parties did play a role in the NDA picking Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential nominee.

"I hope they (opposition) would not have any reason to oppose the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind because of his background, non-controversial nature, and sound legal and social background.

"I only hope that the opposition parties will support Kovindji and join us in getting him elected unanimously as the President of India," he told reporters.

The three-member committee, formed by BJP chief Amit Shah to hold consultations with the political parties on the issue, conveyed its views based on the suggestions of the allies and opposition parties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah, Naidu said, adding that they took these into account.

Besides Naidu, Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Arun Jaitley were the other members of the committee.

Naidu recalled that Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was unanimously elected as the president and there was an "understanding" among all the major parties when A P J Abdul Kalam was elected to the country's top constitutional post.

Despite a majority, the BJP reached out to all the political parties "in the spirit of democracy", the urban development minister said.

Before Kovind's name was announced, Modi had spoken to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeking their support to the NDA candidate for the presidential polls.

Naidu said the prime minister had also spoken to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, whose Telugu Desam Party is an ally of the BJP in the NDA, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao and some other leaders.

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Model-actress Pamela Anderson has shared a love-filled post for Julian Assange on her official blog.

In her blog post, Pamela called for the WikiLeaks founder's release and dedicated William Ernest Henley's poem "Invictus" to him.

Titled "Why My Heart Stands With Julian", Anderson called on world leaders, and China, to intervene and help free the Australian.

"Seven years ago, Julian's quest for justice led him into a confrontation with the strongest power in the world. Julian was and still is crusading for justice and truth.

"...He was trying to show the world hidden crimes that would change our minds and eventually stop the war in Iraq... He stood up to the United States government, to the Pentagon, to the CIA, to the FBI, to the White House. He didn't flinch. He still doesn't. He stayed the course. He knew what he was doing. When others attacked him, he stood firm," Pamela wrote.

The former "Baywatch" star said there was no longer any reason to keep Assange "trapped in a small room" now Sweden has dropped its case against him.

She blasted British Prime Minister Theresa May for keeping him imprisoned in the embassy.

"Theresa May, who won't shake the hand of the victims of the Grenfell fire. Who doesn't care about poor people. Who doesn't care about justice or peace. Who doesn't care about Julian. The worst prime minister in living memory. (sic)," she continued.

Pamela also invited French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte to the July opening of her new restaurant in France, and asked him to grant Assange asylum.

"I am opening a new vegan restaurant in France in July, and I would like to extend my invitation to the new President and his First Lady. Join me on the day I open the doors, and we will sit and eat good food and discuss what can be done for Julian," she wrote.

The ex-playboy model gushed over how his "bravery and courage" makes Assange sexy. She signed off: "I love you, Pamela.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi today talked to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and reaffirmed India's commitment to take forward the Paris climate agreement.

Trudeau had called up Modi this evening where the issue of Paris agreement came up for discussion.

Sharing details of the conversation through the prime minister's Twitter handle, the PMO said the two exchanged views on developments of mutual interest, specifically climate change.

"Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to take forward implementation of the Paris Agreement," the statement said.

Modi congratulated Trudeau on the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation this year. He also appreciated the steady all round progress in diverse areas of bilateral engagement with Canada.

Both leaders agreed to continue communication and cooperation to promote stronger ties.

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NDA constituents barring the Shiv Sena today welcomed the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind for the president's post while Opposition parties seemed not impressed and sought to keep up the suspense on extending their support.

With both the names suggested by it -- RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and noted agriculturist M S Swaminathan -- rejected, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said the Dalit candidate was chosen merely for vote-bank politics.

The Sena will take a final decision tomorrow regarding its support to 71-year-old Kovind, who is the governor of Bihar.

The name of Kovind, who has served two terms as Rajya Sabha MP from BJP and was also the party's Dalit wing head, was announced by Amit Shah.

The BJP chief hoped that there will be a consensus on his name.

The Congress, however, spurned the BJP's appeal for consensus on its choice and said the opposition would take a call on contesting the election after a meeting on June 22.

The BJP had taken a "unilateral decision", Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said soon after the announcement.

"Congress does not want to comment on this issue as we want to take a unanimous decision with all other opposition parties on the presidential elections. The final call will be taken in a meeting of all opposition parties on June 22," he said.

On the BJP fielding a Dalit candidate, Azad said, "...I don't want to comment on this...I don't want to comment on the merits and demerits of the candidate."



Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu, who was part of the three-member panel formed to hold discussions and build a consensus on a presidential candidate, said the suggestions of opposition parties played a role in the NDA picking Kovind.

"I hope they (opposition) should not have any reason now to oppose the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind because of his background, non-controversial nature, and also sound legal and social background," he said.

CPI national secretary D Raja, however, said Naidu and Rajnath Singh, who was also part of the panel, had not propose any name.

"Now, they have named a person with RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. A meeting will be held soon to discuss the same," he said.

Virtually expressing her party's reservation about the candidature of Kovind, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee said he was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha in the past.

"There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him," she said in a statement.

"The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate."



CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the BJP "unilaterally" selected Kovind and the non-NDA parties will take the decision "keeping in mind the country's history that the ruling and opposition parties contested the polls on all occasion except once".

He said it was the NDA's proposal that it would get back to the opposition after zeroing on a candidate.

"They did not come back to the opposition and announced the candidate," he said.

The NCP also said the future course of action by the opposition parties will be decided in the June 22 meet.

In Lucknow, BSP chief Mayawati said her party is positive about the nomination but wished the NDA had named a non- political Dalit candidate for the top post.

"Although Kovind has been associated with the RSS and the BJP from the beginning but since he is a Dalit, our party's stand towards him cannot be negative. It will be positive, provided Opposition parties do not field any Dalit for the post who is more capable and popular than him," she said.

"Had the BJP and NDA brought any non-political Dalit for the post, it would have been better," she said.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed happiness over the state governor's candidature for the president's post, but stopped short of committing support to the NDA nominee.

"In my capacity as the Bihar Chief Minister, it is a matter of happiness that our governor has been declared as the candidate for the next president of India," he told reporters in Patna after paying a courtesy call to Kovind at the Raj Bhawan.

CPI general secretary Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy said the Opposition parties must put up their candidate against Kovind as he is from the ranks of the RSS.

"Anybody from RSS rank will further divide the country. The three-year rule of the BJP government has divided the country. We feel that definitely there is a need for a democratic candidate, not from hardcore of the RSS," he told PTI in Hyderabad.

In Bhubaneswar, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced his party's support to Kovind.

Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan extended full support to Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The ruling TRS in Telangana and the ruling TDP and opposition YSR Congress party in Andhra Pradesh also backed Kovind's candidate and pledged their support to him.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Following are the PTI's top stories at 1800 hours today:



DEL17 POLL-PREZ-LD BJP



New Delhi: India is set to get its second Dalit president as the BJP picks Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA nominee for the top constitutional post.

DEL20 PREZ-KOVIND-PROFILE



Lucknow: A crusader for the rights of the weaker sections of the society, 71-year-old Ram Nath Kovind is a lawyer- turned-politician, whose choice as the BJP-led NDA's presidential candidate is being seen as a political masterstroke.

DEL24 POL-PREZ KOVIND MODI



New Delhi: Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional president and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says.

DEL21 POL-PREZ OPPOSITION MEET



New Delhi: Opposition parties will meet on June 22 to decide on fielding a consensus candidate for the presidential election, with the NDA declaring Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its nominee for the post, Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal says.

BOM18 MP-FARMERS-SUICIDE



Bhopal: Three farmers allegedly end their lives in Madhya Pradesh in the past 24 hours due to distress over debts, taking the number of farmer suicides in the state since June 8 to 15.

MDS6 KA-MARS



Bengaluru: The country's low-cost Mars mission spacecraft that is on a rendezvous with the Red planetfor an extended period completes 1,000 earth days in itsorbit.

CAL3 WB-GJM-GORKHALAND



Darjeeling (WB): The current agitation for a separate Gorkhaland state has struck a chord with the hill people and local political parties, a throwback to the 1980s when a prolonged movement led by the GNLF under Subash Ghisingh had rocked Darjeeling.

LGD3 SC-SAHARA



New Delhi: The Supreme Court grants Sahara chief Subrata Roy 10 more working days to deposit Rs 709.82 crore out of the promised Rs 1,500 crore and extends its interim order granting him bail till July 5.

FGN39 UK-LDALL TERROR



London: A man rams a van into worshippers coming out of a mosque in north London after special Ramzan prayers, killing one person and injuring 10 others, in a terror incident described by police as a deliberate attack on Muslims.

DEL32 BIZ-GST-INAUGURATION



New Delhi: The historic Central Hall of Parliament will host a midnight function on June 30 to launch the sweeping tax reform of GST, reminiscent of India's tryst with destiny on the midnight of August 15, 1947.

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Qatar today demanded neighbouring states lift their "blockade" of the emirate as a pre-condition for crisis talks, even as the United Arab Emirates warned its isolation could last years.

Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani called measures imposed against Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and others "an act of aggression".

"We have to make it very clear for everyone, negotiations must be done in a civilised way and should have a solid basis and not under pressure or under blockade," he told reporters in Doha.

"Qatar under blockade -- there is no negotiation. They have to lift the blockade," said Sheikh Mohammed.

"Until now we didn't see any progress about lifting the blockade, which is the pre-condition for anything to move forward."



On June 5, Saudi Arabia and its allies cut all diplomatic ties with Qatar, pulling their ambassadors from the gas-rich emirate and giving its citizens a two-week deadline to leave their territory.

The measures also included closing Qatar's only land border, banning its planes from using their airspace and barring Qatari nationals from transiting through their airports.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain and others accuse Qatar of supporting and funding "terrorism" and of working with regional rival Iran, charges Doha firmly denies.

Asked if the ultimate aim of the Gulf countries was to enforce regime change, the foreign minister replied: "No one is in a position of imposing regime change in this country.

"Our system here is based on a consensus between the people and its ruler."



Sheikh Mohammed's demand came as a UAE state minister warned Qatar's diplomatic isolation could "last years".

"We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate," state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists in Paris. "This isolation can take years."



Gargash said that while Qatar's rivals were "betting on time", a solution could not be brokered until it abandoned its support for "extremist Islamists".

"They have built a sophisticated podium for jihadism and Islamic extremism," he said.

"They support groups linked to Al-Qaeda in Syria, Libya... And in Yemen.

"This state is weaponising jihadists and Islamists, it is using this as a weapon of influence," he added.

Sheikh Mohammed said Qatar had not received any demands from the Gulf states or from countries seeking a diplomatic solution, including Kuwait, the United States, France and Britain, as the conflict dragged into its third week.

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Floods triggered by torrential rains have inundated 165 villages in six districts of Assam, affecting around 60,000 people even as more heavy showers are likely in the northeast tomorrow.

A MeT department report today predicted heavy rains in Assam, Meghalaya, sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, and heavy showers in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir and Goa.

Officials in Assam said 60,000 people in Lakhimpur, Darrang, Karimganj, Nalbari, Udalguri and Sonitpur districts have been affected by floods.

At least 3,000 people have been shifted to eight relief camps.

Dhansiri river at Numaligarh in Golaghat district and Jia Bharali river at N T Road Crossing in Sonitpur district are flowing above the danger level, while 3,369 hectare of farmland with standing crops has been overrun by the deluge.

Meanwhile, rains halted the rise of the mercury in the north. The precipitation is likely to keep the heat in check for another two-three days.

The northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan will be hit by a thundersquall and hailstorm, the MeT office said.

The MeT office said favourable conditions are developing for the advance of the southwest monsoon into some more parts of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, the remaining parts of Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, some parts of east Madhya Pradesh and east Uttar Pradesh over the next two-three days.

The national capital reeled under sultry conditions, with the humidity levels oscillating between 56 and 95 per cent. They city recorded a high of 37.4 degrees Celsius and a low of 24 degrees Celsius.

Rains lashed several parts of Punjab and Haryana, leading to a drop in the mercury levels.

The Union Territory of Chandigarh, which gauged 43.4 mm of rainfall, recorded a maximum of 35.5 degrees Celsius.

In Punjab, a heavy downpour (20 mm) drenched Amritsar.

The maximum temperature in most parts of the two states remained below 39 degrees Celsius.

However, the mercury rose by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius at most of the places in Rajasthan. Churu was the hottest place in the state at 42.7 degrees Celsius. Kota had a high of 41.8, Ganganagar 40.5, Jaipur 40.3 and Barmer 40.

Light to moderate rainfall occurred in Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions. The weather remained dry in the rest of the state.

The maximum temperature in Bihar stayed below the 42- degree Celsius mark. Gaya was the hottest place in the state at 41.1 degrees Celsius. Eastern parts of the state received traces of rainfall.

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His face doesn't grab airtime, his comments do not court controversy and his actions seldom make . The National Democratic Alliance's man for the country's highest constitutional post is as low profile as can be.

But Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, 71, has attributes that not many in the large NDA family can boast of. The Kanpur-born former lawyer is a Dalit leader, is known for his organisational skills and is a loyal member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Names of several presidential probables from the NDA stable were doing the rounds but Kovind, a former national spokesperson of the party, was not among them. While the choice may have surprised political watchers, it's an astute move for a party working overtime to expand its social base and win over new constituencies.

Kovind, who could well be India's 14th president if the numbers stack up, is married and has a son and a daughter.

BJP chief Amit Shah said the party's parliamentary board went through a long list of potential candidates before choosing Kovind, who was its MP in the Rajya Sabha for two terms and headed its Dalit Morcha.

Kovind's links to the party's controversial Hindutva politics, however, are tenuous. Sources say he has been drawn more to the politics of social empowerment of Dalits and other weaker sections than the plank of religion.

Largely seen as an affable man, he has had a quiet innings as the governor of Bihar, a post that he took up in August 2015, months before assembly elections were held in the state.

It is an acknowledgement of his non-confrontational conduct that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who has been battling the BJP in the state, lavished praise on him today, saying he had done "exemplary work" as governor.

Kumar, who had earlier been critical of the NDA government's appointment of Kovind as governor, had then said he was not consulted about the move. But since then, the two have been getting along well, the sources said.

Kovind, a commerce graduate who also studied law at Kanpur University, practised in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. He was also the Central government's standing counsel in the apex court from 1980-93.

His official profile on the Bihar governor's website describes him as a crusader for "rights and cause of weaker sections of society specially Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/OBC/ minority..." from his student days.

Shah today highlighted his "humble background" and work for the cause of weaker sections as he appealed to the opposition parties to support Kovind as a consensus candidate.

The party's top brass would hope that by sending the only Dalit after K R Narayanan -- and the first from the Hindi heartland -- to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the BJP would win over the community.

The BJP has been seeking to widen its base beyond its traditional constituencies of upper castes and trading classes and has succeeded to a large extent, as seen in the UP assembly polls.

Kovind, who headed Dalit Morcha from 1998 to 2002, also led the All-India Koli Samaj.

Elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh, he served two consecutive terms till March 2006.

He joined a stir by SC/ST employees in 1997 when Dalits and others protested against orders issued by the Central government, which were rescinded by Atal Bihari Vajpayee when the NDA came to power.

As an advocate, Kovind took the lead in providing freelegal aid to weaker sections, especially the SC/ST women, and poor and needy girls under the aegis of the Free Legal Aid Society in Delhi.

Known for his work in the field of education, he served as a member on the board of management of the Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow, and was a member of the board of governors of the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata.

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The renaming of a road in Kerala's Kasargod district as Gaza Street, seen as a reference to the disputed strip of land between Israel and Egypt, has drawn the attention of police and intelligence agencies.

A signboard reading 'Gaza Street' has been put up at the beginning of the road, near the Juma Masjid in Thuruthi here, renamed apparently after the tiny Palestinian self-governing territory.

Police and intelligence departments are keenly looking into all aspects including possible radical influence behind the naming, as a majority among the 21 Keralite youths, who went missing and suspected to have joined terror outfit ISIS recently, hailed from Kasaragod.

A top police officer said police was keeping a close watch on all developments in the district. "The naming of the road as Gaza Street has come to our notice. We are closely monitoring all such developments," he told PTI.

Sameera Abdul Razak, Thuruthi Municipality ward Councillor and IUML member, said she had attended the inauguration ceremony of the road but was unaware about other details.

"I was invited to the road inauguration and I attended the function. I do not know who renamed it as Gaza Street. It was earlier known as T S Colony," she told PTI.

Kasaragod district panchayat president AGC Basheer had inaugurated the road last month.

However, he said he was not the person who was supposed to inaugurate the rechristened street and had to step in at the last moment.

He also said he did not know other details behind the naming of the road.

Local BJP leaders here alleged that there were conscious attempts being made to change the names of different streets and roads in Kasaragod.

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A United Nations court has resumed proceedings in the case of a former Rwandan planning minister convicted of involvement in his country's 1994 genocide, following the release from custody in Turkey of one of the judges involved in the case.

The UN's Nations Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals announced today that it will review the conviction of Augustin Ngirabatware, who was sentenced on appeal to 30 years in 2014 for inciting, instigating, aiding and abetting genocide.

Ngirabatware last year filed a request for review of his convictions.

The case was put on ice after U.N. Judge Aydin Sefa Akay was detained in his native Turkey. Akay was convicted last week of membership of a terrorist organization and sentenced to seven and a half years' imprisonment but released pending appeal.

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The Supreme Court today extended till July 4 the time for embattled Sahara chief Subrata Roy to deposit Rs 709.82 crore, out of Rs 1,500 crore which was to be paid by June 15, with a warning that failure to pay the remainder may again land him in jail.

Extending its interim order granting bail to Roy till July 5, a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi said, "If the balance amount is not paid by that date, we will be compelled to send the contemnor (Roy) to the custody and we are sure he shall not give rise to such an occasion."



At the outset, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Roy, said that out of Rs 1,500 crore, which was to be paid by June 15, the Sahara chief has deposited Rs 790.18 crore and ten more working days be granted to him to comply with the undertaking given by him on April 27.

Roy, who was present in courtroom today, had told the court that he will pay Rs 1,500 crore on or before June 15 and Rs 552.22 crore exactly a month thereafter.

"As the contemnor has deposited Rs 790.18 crore, we are inclined to extend the time by ten working days so that the undertaking can be complied with. The balance amount ie Rs 709.82 crores shall be deposited with the SEBI Sahara Refund Account by 4th July, 2017," the bench noted its order.

Meanwhile, the court allowed Sahara Chief to sell Grosvenor House Hotel by transferring shares of the company to the buyer firm, GH Equity UK Limited.

The bench, however, rejected the plea of Roy that he be allowed to sell land, admeasuring 87.03 acres, in certain villages of Haridwar in Uttarakhand in Rs 109.75 crore as the amount was 62 per cent of circle rate prevalent in the area.

"The said amount is 62 per cent of the circle rate and, thereby, less than 38 per cent of the circle rate. Permission is sought to sell the property at that rate. As advised at present, we are not inclined to grant the said permission," the bench said.

"We think that the said property shall be put to public auction by SEBI with the assistance of approved agency. In the bid, SEBI can mention 90 per cent of the circle rate, as some time this court had permitted at that rate," it said.

The auction be conducted by the competent authority of SEBI through approved agency on or before July 5, it said, adding that "e-auction can be done".

Meanwhile, the court took on record the draft terms and conditions submitted by the Official Liquidator of the Bombay High Court for effecting sale of the Amby Valley properties of Sahara Group.

Vinod Sharma, the official liquidator, submitted that the terms and conditions have been scrutinized by Justice B N Agarwal, a former apex court judge who has been nominated to supervise the refund process.

"A copy of the terms and conditions be handed over to the counsel for the contemnor (Roy)...The prayer for approval of the terms and conditions of sale notice shall be considered on the next date of hearing," it said.

Earlier, Roy had appeared before the court which extended his parole till June 19 with a warning that failure to pay Rs 1,500 crore, as promised, may land him in jail again.

The apex court had taken note of an affidavit and a personal undertaking of Roy that he will pay Rs 1,500 crore on or before June 15 and Rs 552.22 crore exactly a month thereafter on July 15.

The bench had noted in its order on April 27 that Rs 11,169 crore towards principal was due on the Sahara Chief and around Rs 12,000 crore has already been paid.

Earlier, the court was irked over non-submission of money and had decided to sell off Rs 34,000 crore worth of properties of the Sahara Group at the Aamby Valley.

The apex court had on April 6 warned the Group that if it failed to deposit Rs 5,092.6 crore in SEBI-Sahara refund account by April 17 in pursuance of its order, it will be "compelled" to auction its property at the Aamby Valley.

The court had on November 28 last year asked Roy to deposit Rs 600 crore more by February 6 in the refund account to remain out of jail and warned that failure to do so would result in his return to prison.

It had on May 6, 2016 granted a four-week parole to Roy to attend the funeral of his mother. His parole has been extended by the court ever since. Roy was sent to Tihar jail on March 4, 2014.

Besides Roy, two other directors -- Ravi Shankar Dubey and Ashok Roy Choudhary -- were arrested for failure of the group's two companies -- Sahara India Real Estate Corporation (SIRECL) and Sahara Housing Investment Corp Ltd (SHICL) -- to comply with the court's August 31, 2012 order to return Rs 24,000 crore to their investors. Director Vandana Bhargava was not taken into custody.

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Keeping up the suspense, NDA ally Shiv Sena today said party chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of Sena leaders to decide on supporting the ruling alliance's choice for president.

The Shiv Sena, the second largest constituent of the NDA, has had an uneasy relationship with the BJP ever since the two parties parted ways ahead of the 2014 assembly polls.

Though it later joined the BJP-led ministry in Maharashtra, Sena has continued to needle the lead partner over all vital issues including demonetisation and tension on the borders.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhavji after the NDA's presidential candidate was decided by the BJP's parliamentary board meeting. Shah sought the Sena's support for Ram Nath Kovind," Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut told reporters here.

"Uddhavji told him that he will convene a meeting of the party leaders to arrive at a decision and convey our answer to him in one or two days," he said.

The Sena MP said Thackeray may "answer many questions later this evening" when he will address its workers on the party's 51st foundation day.

"We had suggested two names for the post. One was of (RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat. If they (BJP) had a problem with that, we wanted (eminent agriculturist) M S Swaminathan. But since they have chosen some other name, the party will convey to the BJP our decision soon," Raut said.

In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, the BJP has 122 MLAs and claims to have support of some more legislators.

There are 67 members from Maharashtra in Parliament - 48 in the Lok Sabha and 19 in the Rajya Sabha.

The BJP-led NDA (including Sena) has total of 52 MPs.

The Sena has 21 MPs - 18 Lok Sabha and 3 Rajya Sabha members - while the BJP has 23 Lok Sabha and 5 Rajya Sabha members from the state that corresponds to a total value of 19,824.

The Congress-led UPA has 15 MPs from the state in both the Houses of Parliament. The total value of MP votes of UPA is 10,620.

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Family members of those alleged to have been killed in clashes with police might have lost their sole bread winners, but they vowed to continue their fight for a separate state of Gorkhaland.

Family members of Sunil Rai (23), Mahesh Gurung (25) and Bimal Shashanker (28) alleged that the three were killed during clashes with police on Saturday.

The police, however, confirmed the death of only one person but did not identify him nor gave the reason for his death.

"Is it wrong to fight for your own right? Gorkhaland is our right and we will have it. His death will inspire other youths. We can starve but will continue our fight," Sunil's uncle, Aita Singh Thani told PTI.

Sunil, a driver by profession, is survived by his wife, a 10-month-old son and ailing parents. He used to live in Bijanbari area of Darjeeling.

Bimal Shashanker, a farmer, was killed while he was with other GJM activists during a protest on Saturday, said Ramesh, a relative of Bimal.

"Everybody started to flee once the lathi charge started. Suddenly Bimal fell down. He was a close friend and is the sole bread winner of the family. His death inspires us to take forward our fight for Gorkhaland," Ramesh said.

Bimal is survived by his 8-year-old son, wife and parents.

Mahesh, who used to work in Rajasthan, had come home in Darjeeling for holidays, GJM sources said adding that he was a bachelor and is survived by his ailing parents.

Since June 8, Darjeeling has witnessed violent clashes between GJM activists and police over the demand of a separate state of Gorkhaland.

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Tata Group and American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin today signed an "unprecedented" deal to produce, operate and export the combat-proven F-16 fighters in India, boosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan ahead of his first summit with US President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, Lockheed will shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to India without directly affecting American jobs, a campaign pledge of Trump who has vowed to put "America First".

The deal announced during the Paris Airshow between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Lockheed Martin is ideally suited to meet Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs.

According to defence experts, the Indian Air Force needs around 200 medium weight category aircraft and currently does not operate F-16s. The deal is going to be among the largest projects under the Make in India initiative.

In August last year, Lockheed had offered to move its lone production line the F 16-Block 70 from Texas to India, the world's top defence importer. It, however, had made clear the proposal was "conditional" to Indian Air Force choosing the fighters for its fleet.

In February this year, Lockheed had said this unique opportunity strengthens the strategic ties between the US and India. Around the same time, the defence major had also said that it has briefed the Trump administration on the deal which was supported by the previous Obama administration as part of a broader cooperative dialogue with India.

The announcement of the deal comes a week ahead of Modi's first bilateral meeting with Trump after the billionaire tycoon became the president of the United States in January. Modi will be on a two-day visit to the US from June 25.

The agreement was signed by Sukaran Singh, CEO of TASL, and George Standridge, vice president of Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons, and Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, were also present.

The two companies said this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports New Delhi's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in the country under the 'Make in India' initiative.

"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

The company said the "unprecedented" F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world.

"Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 programme," said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

"Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make In India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India," he said.

The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASL's proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter.

With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced.

Lockheed Martin claims the F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered. And TASL, a Tata Group firm, is focused on providing integrated solutions for Aerospace, Defence and Homeland Security.

Last year, India agreed to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from France for around USD 8.9 billion.

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The US Supreme Court unanimously struck down today a North Carolina law that barred registered sex offenders from using social media.

The suit in the nation's highest court goes back to a seemingly harmless event in April 2010, when a man named Lester Packingham learned that authorities had dropped court proceedings stemming from a traffic ticket he had been given.

Packingham went to his Facebook page and wrote how relieved he was. "No fine. No court cost, no nothing spent... Praise be to GOD, WOW! Thanks, JESUS!" he wrote.

A police officer in Durham, North Carolina who was working to hunt down sex offenders online read the post.

Eight years earlier, at the age of 21, Packingham had been convicted of having sex with a 13-year-old girl.

He got a suspended sentence of 10-12 months and his name was placed on a registry of sex offenders. And under a much disputed law enacted in North Carolina in 2008, Packingham was barred for 30 years from using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and all other social media.

So Packingham was convicted again, this time for using Facebook before the 30-year deadline was over. Police who searched his home after the post was read found no evidence of any new sexual misbehavior toward minors.

He appealed, saying the North Carolina law violated his right to freedom of expression.

In his legal battle over the past six years, Packingham has won the support of libertarians and groups opposing internet restrictions.

In the other corner, Louisiana and 12 other states backed North Carolina, saying it was important to block sexual predators from collecting information on potential victims.

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President Donald Trump denounced North Korea as "a brutal regime" after the death of a 22- year-old US student released by the reclusive country in a coma last week.

Speaking moments after of Otto Warmbier's death was announced publicly, Trump decried the Pyongyang regime.

"Bad things happened but at least he got home to his parents," Trump said during a White House event.

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Two civilians killed in an assault this weekend on a popular tourist resort near the Mali capital, Bamako, worked for the European Union, the bloc's foreign affairs chief said today.

Five suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed at the scene, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

He said 36 mostly French and Malian hostages were freed following the incident at the Kangaba Le Campement resort yesterday afternoon.

Speaking in Luxembourg, EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said the two EU staff victims were a Malian woman and a Portuguese man.

Around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the ecolodge today, Traore added, continuing investigations at a destination known for its popularity with expatriates on weekends.

Among them were members of the European Union's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country, which sped up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when shooting began, according to witnesses.

Some of the assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" - Arabic for 'God is greatest' - other witnesses interviewed by AFP said. So far, no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Meanwhile a Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

"When I saw the terrorists, I immediately showed clients an opening where they could hide themselves," said Lancina Traore, describing the vast site where the lodge is situated.

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel.

That attack, which killed 20 people, caused the government to call a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Among those saved yesterday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to Mali's security ministry.

The French foreign ministry said it was still verifying the presence of its nationals at the site with one Frenchman missing.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners in Bamako.

Back in January, the Kangaba's owner, Herve Depardieu, had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

Yesterday's attack is the latest in a series of high- profile assaults in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

But in a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday morning in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

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Two people working for the EU were among those killed in an attack on a Mali tourist resort blamed on Islamic jihadists, EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said today.

"Unfortunately, I can confirm that there were two victims among our EU colleagues, a Malian woman and a Portuguese man," Mogherini told a press conference after an EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg.

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Qatar's diplomatic isolation could last years and its Gulf rivals will not lift sanctions until it abandons its alleged support for jihadists, a United Arab Emirates minister said today.

"We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate," state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists during a visit to Paris.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain broke off relations with Qatar two weeks ago and have closed land and sea borders and imposed severe restrictions on airspace.

The crisis has raised major concerns over instability in the region.

"This isolation can take years," Gargash said.

Qatar's rivals were "betting on time", but a solution could not be brokered until it abandoned its support for "extremist Islamists".

"They have built a sophisticated podium for jihadism and Islamic extremism," he said.

"They support groups linked to Al-Qaeda in Syria, Libya... And in Yemen.

"This state is weaponising jihadists and Islamists, it is using this as a weapon of influence," he added.

But by applying pressure on gas-rich Qatar through sanctions, "we have a golden opportunity to break this support", he said.

Qatar strongly denies the accusations.

In the next few days, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt will submit a list of demands to Qatar, which is likely to include the expulsion of radical individuals.

"There must be some people who are wise in Qatar and who will prevail, hopefully within the ruling family," Gargash said.

"This is not about regime change, it is about behaviour change."



He called for Western nations including the United States, France, Germany and Britain to help monitor any agreement reached with Qatar to ensure they are not cooperating with jihadists.

"They have the diplomatic clout and technical know-how," Gargash added.

He said that despite the row, the Gulf nations had pledged to allow the massive US base in Qatar, where 10,000 American soldiers are based, to function normally.

The Al-Udeid base, the largest US base in the region, is a key launching pad for military strikes on the Islamic State jihadist group.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nayan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, will hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday.

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Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today visited the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan here to review the preparations for the International Yoga Day event on June 21, in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate.

They were briefed on the programme and the preparations by the officials. Naik was seen wearing a Yoga Day t-shirt.

A rehearsal for the main event was also held today.

An elaborate security arrangement would be put in place with commandos and paramilitary personnel keeping a close watch on the venue, the police said.

"Police chiefs of the adjoining districts of Lucknow have also been alerted to take preventive measures, especially in the wake of the Bharatiya Kisan Union's (BKU) call to stage protests on highways," a senior police official said.

BKU spokesperson Rakesh Tikait said, "Our office-bearers, along with farmers, will be performing yoga on the streets of various cities in the state. This will be our way to protest against the government's attitude towards the farmers."



BKU general secretary Dharmendra Malik said the supporters of the outfit would perform 'sheersashan'.

Officials at Lucknow said over 400 CCTV cameras would be installed for the June 21 event.

"The participants will be allowed to enter the venue from 2 AM to 5.30 AM. Giant LED screens will be installed at the venue for them to have a close look at the yogic postures," Additional District Magistrate (Lucknow East) Virendra Pandey said.

"Besides, we will install LED screens at 11 parks in Lucknow for those unable to enter the Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan," he added.

The main event is scheduled to begin at around 6.30 AM, for which the state government has sent invites to leaders of various political parties, including former chief ministers Akhilesh Yadav (Samajwadi Party) and Mayawati (Bahujan Samaj Party).

The SP would take out 'cycle yatras' across the state to spread the message of environment conservation.

"SP national president Akhilesh Yadav has asked all the district presidents and office-bearers of the party to undertake cycle yatras on Yoga Day to spread the message of environment and health awareness," party spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhury said.

"SP leaders will perform yoga at the district headquarters and the workers will ride bicycles in their constituencies," he added.

It maybe recalled that when the SP was in power in the state, it had shunned the Yoga Day celebrations.

On May 14, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Adityanath had reviewed the preparations for the Yoga Day event in the presence of Union Ayush Minister Shripad Yesso Naik.

To ensure that the event was a grand success, the chief minister had issued directions to hold a 28-day workshop for the participants, which begun last month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The US and Nepal today began a special operations training exercise during which forces of the two countries will train together to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster response emergencies in rural, mountainous areas.

After the training exercise "Balance Nail 17-3" held at the Chhauni Barracks in Kathmandu, the American mission handed over a regional crisis management centre built by its assistance to the Nepal army.

The US funded Regional Crisis Management Centre (RCMC) is a USD 1.8 million facility, constructed in Kathmandu Valley, was developed through the cooperation of the US Embassy's Office of Defense Cooperation - the US Agency for International Development (USAID), and the World Food Program (WFP), according to statement issued by the US Embassy.

"This government of Nepal and US Embassy project directly supports Nepal's ability to coordinate emergency response, facilitate communication with the National Emergency Operations Centre, and provide assistance to the affected populations during both manmade and natural disasters," the statement said.

The RCMC and warehouse are part of a larger network of infrastructure being constructed throughout the country to provide safe locations for relief efforts and food distribution, it said.

The project was completed with assistance from the U.S Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters and Himalayan Builders, it added.

The bilateral special operations training exercise "Balance Nail 17-3" was also held at the Chhauni Barracks here.

Bilateral training between the US Army Special Forces and the Nepal Mahabir Rangers has roots spanning over a decade.

During the "Balance Nail" exercises the rangers and US Special Operations forces train together to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to humanitarian assistance and disaster response emergencies in rural, mountainous areas.

This training will also build the Nepal Army's ability to work side by side with government institutions, civilians, NGOs, and INGOs in the event of crises, whether at home in Nepal or when carrying out UN Peacekeeping Operations abroad.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Actor Mark Wahlberg said he would not be coming back for the sequel to "Transformers: The Last Knight".

"The Last Knight" has already been confirmed to be the final installment in the sci-fi action film franchise with Michael Bay as director.

While discussing the future of the popular movie series on "The Graham Norton Show", Wahlberg broke the of his retirement from it, reported Digital Spy.

"It's the last one so I get my life back," he said.

Wahlberg further said he spent "five months" getting in prime physical condition for "The Last Knight", which also features Isabela Moner and Josh Duhamel.

"The long hair is the worst thing ever. I look like my mum in the '70s - it's just really bad!"



The film will release on June 21 in the US.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
There was a "depth of spirituality" in Cardinal Ivan Dias, former Archbishop of Mumbai, said Joseph Dias, general secretary of Catholic Secular Forum, here tonight.

Cardinal Dias passed away in Rome today.

"When he was appointed Archbishop, many of us did not know him too well...Since he had been involved with the diplomatic services for the Vatican, but as soon as we encountered him we could see in him the depth of his spirituality and his love for his priests," Joseph Dias said.

"His first projects were the development of the Clergy Home and the Seminary...He came across as a no-nonsense leader, demanding accountability from his priests while being generous in his love for them.

"I had the wonderful opportunity of serving as the secretary of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Council for three years and it was during that time I was able to see the humane, gentle, spiritual and strong side of him," he said.

"He loved youth. I know how excited he was meeting them, sometimes even playing the guitar to sing his favourite song "Telephone to Glory"," said Dias.

"With his death the Church has lost a brilliant and endearing prince," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A woman drug peddler was arrested today after 10 kg cannabis was allegedly recovered from her possession here in Jammu and Kashmir, police said.

During a special drive against drugs, a Police party apprehended the woman near Rajiv Nagar area in Narwal belt of the city, a police officer said.

The woman, who belongs to Rajiv Nagar in Narwal belt, was found carrying 10 kg of cannabis, the officer said.

The narcotic drug was meant for further sale among youths in Jammu, the policeman said.

A case under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Bahu Fort and further investigation is on.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The opposition YSR Congress party in Andhra Pradesh today announced its support to the NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

YSRC president Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy announced that his party would support Kovind's candidature for the top post as he was a Dalit leader.

Jagan gave this assurance to BJP chief Amit Shah, when the latter called him over the phone this afternoon seeking the YSRC's support for the ruling coalition's nominee.

Jagan, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi last month, had announced his party would support the NDA's nominee in next month's presidential election.

The YSRC has 10 MPs and 66 MLAs.

The electoral college which elects the president through the system of proportional representation comprises elected MPs and members of legislative assemblies.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Mike Stone

PARIS (Reuters) - Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with India's Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

India's air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

The agreement is an "intent to partner together to meet India's Make-in-India requirement through the establishment of an F-16 production line in India," Lockheed Martin's leader of F-16 business development, Phil Howard, said on Monday on the sidelines of the Paris Airshow.

But Modi's Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with U.S. President Donald Trump's America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

However, Lockheed has met and briefed the current U.S. administration on its plan, and Howard said he had a sense of full support from the Trump administration.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.

Sweden's Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June. 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defense contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.

(Additional reporting by Bangalore Newsroom; Writing by Sanjeev Miglani; Editing by Mark Potter)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet has committed to buy the new 737 MAX 10 planes from Boeing Co, the companies said, becoming an inaugural customer for an aircraft designed to blunt strong sales of rival planemaker Airbus' A321neo.

The agreement for 40 aircraft, valued at $4.7 billion at current list prices, includes an order for 20 new 737 MAX 10 planes and conversion of 20 of SpiceJet's 737 MAX 8 aircraft from an existing order, the two companies said in a statement on Monday.

"We are proud to be a part of the launch of the 737 MAX 10 and to be the first airline in India to order the newest version of the 737, which will enable us to maximize revenue on our dense routes while having a lower unit seat cost," SpiceJet's chairman and managing director, Ajay Singh, said in the statement.

Indonesian budget carrier Lion Air and China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings could also be among the inaugural customers for Boeing's new 737 MAX 10 planes, sources have told .

Asia, especially India, is a key market for planemakers, with analysts expecting Indian passenger numbers to more than triple over the next 20 years as millions more people become wealthy enough to fly for the first time.

SpiceJet, which was briefly forced to ground its fleet in late 2014 when it ran out of cash, is the fourth-largest Indian airline behind InterGlobe Aviation's IndiGo, Jet Airways and state-run Air India.

SpiceJet, which operates a fleet of 35 Boeing 737s and 20 Bombardier Q400s, agreed in January to acquire 100 new MAX 737 aircraft as part of its expansion plans in the world's fastest growing aviation market.

The budget carrier plans to grow its operational fleet to 200 airplanes by the end of the decade and expand regionally with the new 737 MAX family of airplanes. SpiceJet will take delivery of its first 737 MAX in 2018.

(Reporting by Aditi Shah; Editing by Amrutha Gayathri)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Boeing unveiled a new model of its best-selling 737 aircraft on Monday, injecting life into a faltering civil aviation market as French President Emmanuel Macron flew in to open the world's biggest airshow in Paris.

After years of booming orders driven by increased air travel and more fuel-efficient planes, passenger jetmakers are bracing for a slowdown in demand while they focus on meeting tight delivery schedules and ambitious production targets.

But Boeing generated a burst of activity at the Paris Airshow by launching the 737 MAX 10 to plug a gap in its portfolio at the top end of the market for single-aisle jets following runaway sales of the rival Airbus A321neo.

The US planemaker said it had more than 240 orders and commitments from at least 10 customers for the new 737, which can carry up to 230 people in a single-class configuration.

"The MAX 10 is going to add more value for customers and more energy to the marketplace," Boeing Chief Executive Dennis Muilenburg said at a presentation ceremony.

However, Airbus immediately hit back with an order for 100 of its popular A320neo planes from leasing firm GECAS and suggested much of the interest in the MAX 10 was from existing Boeing customers switching orders from other models.

"We think the 737 MAX 10 is a competitor to the (MAX) 9 and that's why a lot of people are converting," said Airbus sales chief John Leahy.

Industry sources said Airbus would also soon announce a large order for its A321neo, as well as one for 10 of its A350-900 wide-body jets. Sources said on Sunday the European company was close too to clinching a deal worth about $5 billion with low-cost carrier Viva Air Peru.

Macron jets in

While demand for passenger jets may be faltering, there are signs that interest in military aircraft is picking up after years in the doldrums due to government budget cuts and weak growth.

Lockheed Martin is in the final stages of negotiating a $37 billion-plus deal to sell 440 F-35 fighter jets to a group of 11 nations including the United States, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

That would be the biggest deal yet for the stealthy warplane, set to make its Paris Airshow debut this week.

In another boost for a defence project, President Macron flew into the show on an Airbus A400M military transporter in his first official engagement since winning a parliamentary majority in elections on Sunday.

His arrival was followed by a flypast by the world's largest passenger plane, the Airbus A380, and France's aerial display team.

The ceremony lent high-level support to two ambitious European aerospace projects tarnished by problems: the A400M because of chronic cost overruns and delays and the A380 because of weak sales that threaten its future.

Airbus said on Sunday it was working on an upgrade of the A380 - called A380plus - with fuel-saving wingtips, confirming plans reported by Reuters in March.

Airbus chief Fabrice Bregier said on Monday the company was in talks with several potential customers for the upgraded plane. But it would only be put into production if it received "a large order", he said, without elaborating.

Four-engined, double-decker superjumbos such as the A380 and Boeing's 747 were once viewed as the future of air travel between hubs, but interest has waned as airlines have preferred cheaper more nimble aircraft.
By Tim Hepher and Victoria Bryan

PARIS (Reuters) - Boeing unveiled a new version of its best-selling 737 aircraft on Monday, injecting life into a faltering civil aviation market as French President Emmanuel Macron flew in to open the world's biggest airshow in Paris.

After years of booming orders driven by increased air travel and more fuel-efficient planes, passenger jet manufacturers are bracing for a slowdown in demand while they focus on meeting tight delivery schedules and ambitious production targets.

In a sign of their more modest expectations, some companies have cut back on staffing and catering at this year's Paris Airshow and made less space available for the media.

But Boeing generated a burst of activity on the opening day by launching the 737 MAX 10 to plug a gap in its portfolio at the top end of the market for single-aisle jets, following runaway sales of the rival Airbus A321neo.

The U.S. planemaker said it had more than 240 orders and commitments from at least 10 customers for the new 737, which can carry up to 230 people in a single-class configuration.

"Many airports are running out of capacity and for those airports this is a perfect aircraft," said Ajay Singh, the chairman of low-cost Indian airline SpiceJet, as his company signed a provisional deal to buy 40 MAX 10s.

However, Airbus immediately hit back with an order for 100 of its popular A320neo planes from leasing firm GECAS, as well as a deal for 12 A321neos with Air Lease Corporation.

Airbus sales chief John Leahy brushed off the latest Boeing challenge saying much of the interest in the MAX 10 was from existing Boeing customers switching orders from other models.

"We think the 737 MAX 10 is a competitor to the (MAX) 9 and that's why a lot of people are converting," he said.

Twenty of SpiceJet's provisional order for 40 MAX 10s were conversions from an existing order for other 737 models.

Industry sources also said Airbus would soon announce an order for 10 of its A350-900 wide-body jets, while sources said on Sunday it was close to clinching a deal worth about $5 billion with low-cost carrier Viva Air Peru.

Providing more reassurance for planemakers, Qatar Airways said it was sticking with plans to increase its fleet and routes, despite a diplomatic rift with four Arab nations which have closed their airspace to the company.

"We have had a lot of cancellations, especially to the four countries that did this illegal blockade, but we have found new markets and this is our growth strategy," Chief Executive Akbar al Baker told .

MACRON JETS IN

While demand for passenger jets may be ebbing, there are signs interest in military aircraft is picking up after years in the doldrums due to government budget cuts and weak growth.

Lockheed Martin is in the final stages of negotiating a $37 billion-plus deal to sell 440 F-35 fighter jets to a group of 11 nations including the United States, two people familiar with the matter told .

That would be the biggest deal yet for the stealth warplane, set to make its Paris Airshow debut this week.

In another boost for defence projects, President Macron flew into the airshow aboard an Airbus A400M military transporter in his first official engagement since winning a parliamentary majority in elections on Sunday.

His arrival was followed by a flypast by the world's largest passenger plane, the Airbus A380, and France's aerial display team.

The ceremony lent high-level support to two ambitious European aerospace projects tarnished by problems: the A400M because of chronic cost overruns and delays and the A380 because of weak sales that threaten its future.

Airbus said on Sunday it was working on an upgrade of the A380 - called A380plus - with fuel-saving wingtips, confirming plans reported by in March.

Airbus chief Fabrice Bregier said on Monday the company was in talks with several potential customers for the upgraded plane. But it would only be put into production if it received "a large order", he said, without elaborating.

Four-engined, double-decker superjumbos such as the A380 and Boeing's 747 were once viewed as the future of air travel between international hubs, but interest has waned as airlines have preferred cheaper, more nimble aircraft.

(Additional reporting by Mike Stone, Matthias Blamont, Andrea Shalal and Giulia Segreti; writing by Mark Potter; editing by David Clarke)

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with India's Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

India's air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

But Modi's Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with US President Donald Trump's America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.

Sweden's Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for the first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India with the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.
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Defence and aerospace company Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to manufacture F-16 fighter planes in India. This will be give impetus to the US-based company to move their manufacturing unit in Fort Worth, Texas in a bid to win orders worth billions of dollars from the Indian Air Force.

Both parties signed the pact at Paris Air Show to produce F-16 Block 70 fighter jets in India as part of the Make in India initiative. India is planning to replace its Soviet-era fleet of planes but Modi government has stipulated that foreign manufacturers will have to make planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic base and reduce outright imports.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions the Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," said a joint statement from both companies.

With Lockheed moving its manufacturing plant here, India can export F-16 planes that are flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India with the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

However, with inviting companies under its Make in India bid, Modi government runs a risk of being in conflict with Donald Trump's America First campaign. The US President has been urging companies to set up industries in the United States and create jobs in the country.

Moreover, the agreement comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington already clouded with restrictive norms regarding H1-B visa and protectionist policies enacted by Trump government harming IT sector in India.

(With input from Reuters)

Also watch:




Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa today evening to discuss his views on Pay Commission allowances, reported ANI. Jaitley is expected to present the proposals regarding the said allowances before the Union Cabinet for approval sometime soon. He, however, will be out of the country on an official visit to Russia.



Jaitley, who is also looking after the Defence portfolio, will leave for a four-day visit to Russia on June 20. During his trip he will meet the Russian Defence Minister Sergey Shoygu to discuss matters of technical cooperation in the field of defence. He is expected to return by June 24.



This means Jaitley will not be present for the Cabinet meeting scheduled on Wednesday (June 21) later this week. He is responsible for tabling proposals pertaining to allowance reforms mandated by the Seventh Pay Commission, and modified later by the Committee on Allowances and Empowered Committee of Secretaries (E-CoS).



The federal Cabinet too is reluctant to discuss the matter in absence of its Finance Minister as seen in the past two weeks. Twice the issue of reformed allowance structure has been dropped from the Cabinet's agenda. First time it was when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was away on his four-nation foreign visit during the first week of June. Central government employees were disappointed once again last week when Finance Minister was away in South Korea.



The matter of central government employees' allowances has been pending for almost one year now and the hiccups seem to stick even towards the end. The Pay Commission had recommended that out of a total 196 allowances, 52 be discontinued entirely whereas 36 other allowances should be subsumed under other allowances.



Apart from this, the pay panel called for cutting down the House Rent Allowance (HRA) which constituted the bulk of an employee's paycheck. The Pay Commission suggested HRA to be brought down to 24 per cent, 16 per cent and 8 per cent of the basic pay, to be paid according to the city the employee is positioned in.



The preceding Pay Commission had pegged the same at 30 per cent, 20 per cent and 10 per cent. The Cabinet formed the Committee on Allowances under Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa in June last year after the central government employees expressed their dissatisfaction against them. The motive of this Committee was to look into the extensive changes suggested by the 7th Pay Commission.



The Lavasa Committee handed over its review report to Jaitley in April after consulting representations from various government departments and agencies. After approved by the Department of Expenditure, this report was forwarded to E-CoS for their consideration and consolidation.



The Empowered Committee submitted the report once again to the Finance Minister on June 1. Reports state that the E-CoS has capped HRA rates between 25 per cent and 27 per cent. The Cabinet may, however, approve rates higher than that to compensate for the delay in paying allowances as per new rates according to the 7th Pay Commission.



The final move now is for Cabinet to approve the recommendations about the allowance structure, has been awaited for two weeks now.

Also watch:




Indians will now be able to visit Australia more conveniently after the government announced online visitor visa facility for them from July 1 to cash in on the rising popularity of the country as a holiday destination.

In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indians.

According to the DIBP, with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, there has been a significant rise in demand for Australian visas in India.

Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Alex Hawke said the online application option would make applying for Australian visitor visas easier and ultimately enhance the visitor experience for Indian citizens.

"Indian nationals wishing to visit Australia will soon be able to apply for a visitor visa in a more convenient and accessible manner," Hawke said.

"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," he said.

The move comes amid hundreds of complaints from Indians wishing to travel to Australia and facing inordinate delays in obtaining visitor visas.

Online lodging will offer benefits such as accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the department's ImmiAccount portal.

Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible.
Rail travel to eastern India - including Kolkata, parts of Bihar and Assam - could be the most gruelling experience as maximum delays occur on these routes. A total of 59.60 per cent of the delayed trains in the month of May were those that plied to the eastern parts of the country, according to a report citing official data on the Indian Express. Across the country, a total of 19,450 had been delayed last month. While planned work in the region has been cited as the reason for the delays, there were also operational glitches and track problems.

The lack of punctuality was common for even the best of trains, including Rajdhani with its punctuality rate sliding from 8.61 per cent to 78 per cent as compared to last year in the month of May. Trains in northern and eastern India usually suffer delays during the winters when fog is dense. Delays could also occur in other months of the year due to possible maintenance work and many factors. However, the punctuality of trains in the month of May seems to be particularly bad.

Among the trains that seems to be plagued by delays are Shramjeevi Express (New Delhi to Rajgir), Magadha Express (Islampur in Bihar), Northeast Express (New Delhi to Guwahati). In fact, the problem does not seem to have ended in May. This month too, the Northeast Express ran 14 hours late on June 8, while the Anand Vihar-Bhagalpur Garib Rath Express ran 10 hours late .

According to the Indian Express report, there were 33 different reasons cited for the delays and they included signal issues, law and order problems, and alarm chain being pulled apart from bad weather.

Railways authorities, meanwhile, seem to put the blame for the delays on the ongoing work for the expansion of Indian Railways. "Yes, there are delays. But whenever capacity augmentation work takes place, various speed restrictions come in because of which trains have to run at low speeds. It's temporary. If you see, the situation has started getting back to normal in the past two-three weeks," the paper quoted D K Gayen, general manager, East Central Railway, as saying.
Budget carrier SpiceJet today signed an initial pact with the US aircraft maker Boeing Co for 40 737 MAX planes.

A Memorandum Understanding (MoU), valued at USD 4.7 billion at current list prices, was signed at the Paris Air Show, which commenced today.

The agreement is split evenly between 20 new orders for the 737 MAX 10 and conversions of 20 737 MAX 8 airplanes from the airline's existing order to 737 MAX 10s, according to a release.

"As a Boeing 737 operator and current customer of the 737 MAX, we are proud to be a part of the launch of the 737 MAX 10 and to be the first airline in India to order the newest version of the 737, which will enable us to maximise revenue on our dense routes while having a lower unit seat cost," SpiceJet Chairman and managing Director Ajay Singh said in a release.

"With the introduction of our 737 MAXs next year, we will be able to further expand our network, while keeping our costs low for our customers," Singh said.

The Gurgaon-based no-frills airline had earlier this year announced that it will purchase up to 205 new aircraft (including 55 from the 2014 order) from Boeing with the order valued at USD 22 billion.

SpiceJet currently has a fleet of 55 planes, comprising 35 Boeing B 737s 20 Bombardier Q400s.

"SpiceJet continues to be an aviation leader and strong Boeing partner, and we are honoured to have them join 737 MAX 10 launch group," Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin McAllister said.

"The additional 20 737 MAX 8s and capacity provided by these 20 new 737 MAX 10s will allow SpiceJet to offer even more passengers their award-winning on-board experience, while the airplane's efficiency will keep SpiceJet profitable," he said.

The budget carrier had in 2014 placed an order for 55 737 MAX jets with Boeing.

With the earlier order for 55 planes and additional 100 new 737-8 MAX aircraft, the no-frills carrier firmed up order for a total of 155 planes along with the rights to purchase 50 more aircraft comprising B737-8 MAX and wide- bodied ones, taking the total number of planes to 205.

SpiceJet is scheduled to take the delivery of its first 737 MAX in 2018.

The carrier plans to grow its operational fleet to 200 planes by the end of the decade and looks to expand regionally with the new 737 MAX family of aircraft, the release added.
The crew aboard a Jet Airways flight from Dammam in Saudi Arabia to Kochi in India had more than just a usual day at work on Sunday after a passenger went into pre-mature labour on the plane. Fortunately, a trained paramedic who was on board helped the passenger, Jose, deliver the baby. The airlines has even offered the baby a free lifetime pass on Jet Airways flights.

The flight which was headed to Kochi in Kerala had to be diverted to Mumbai as the passenger needed to be immediately taken to a hospital. The flight which had 162 passengers aboard was delayed by two hours in reaching its destination due to the diversion.

"Jet Airways is pleased to announce the successful birth of a baby boy on board its flight 9W 569 from Dammam to Cochin of June 18, 2017. The Boeing 737 with 162 guests was diverted to Mumbai as one of the guests went into premature labour," the airlines said in an official statement.

The passenger was rushed to Holy Spirit Hospital in Mumbai after the plane landed. Jet Airwars also thanked the paramedic who helped the crew and the passenger.

"The guest delivered a baby boy at 35,000 feet. On landing, both mother and baby were rushed to Holy Spirit Hospital in Mumbai and are doing well. Jet Airways has informed the family of the guest who are en route from Kochi. The airline expresses its gratitude to Ms Wilson, the on-board paramedic for her guidance," the statement added.

Jet Airways has offered the free life time pass to the baby because he is the first child to be born on the airlines' flight.
Questions on Goods and Services Tax (GST), benami transactions and schemes run by the central government were asked in the civil services preliminary examination held on Sunday.

Aspirants were also asked questions related to the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), 'Vidyanjali Yojana' and 'Smart India Hackathon', all of which are the NDA government's initiatives. Lakhs of aspirants appeared in the preliminary examination held across the country. "What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing Goods and Services Tax?" reads a question.

The option for students to choose the correct answers included it will enormously increase the row and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future.

The second option was It will drastically reduce the Current Account Deficit (CAD) of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserve. The third option given in the first paper of the test was It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India.

The civil services examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) annually in three stages - preliminary, main and interview - to select candidates for the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), among others.

The preliminary exam consisting of two papers (Paper I and Paper II) of two hours duration each was held without any reported incidents of protests, official sources said.

The first paper began at 9:30 AM and second one started at 2:30 PM. The candidates were also asked questions with reference to Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988. With a view to providing effective regime to check the benami transactions, the 1988 Act was last year changed through the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amended Act, 2016. The amended law empowers the specified authorities to provisionally attach benami properties which can eventually be confiscated. It has penal provisions for the defaulters.

There were questions on the NSQF, a competency-based framework that organises all qualifications according to a series of levels of knowledge, skills and aptitude to ultimately help an individual to get a job or start his own work, asked in the exam. Paper I also had a question on the government's Smart India Hackathon, the world's biggest ever open innovation model to find digital solutions to the problems of state and union territories.

Another question was on the Vidyanjali scheme, an initiative to enhance community and private sector involvement in government-run elementary schools across the country.

Through this initiative, people from the Indian diaspora, retired teachers, former government officials and defence personnel, professionals and women who are home makers can volunteer at a school that requests for one.
Disappointed over plug-in hybrids being ignored for incentives in the upcoming GST, German luxury car maker BMW says it will be difficult to popularise green vehicles in India in the absence of government support.

Although the company welcomed the government's idea of going for all-electric vehicles by 2030, BMW said lack of infrastructure and consumer's concerns over getting stranded with pure electric vehicles when charge runs out will be major challenges to overcome.

Under the GST rates, tax incidence on hybrid vehicles will go up to 43 per cent from the current level of effective tax rate of 30.3 per cent.

"When the GST rates were announced, we were disappointed that the plug-in hybrids have been totally ignored," BMW India President Vikram Pawah said.

In a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, apart from a conventional petrol or diesel engine, there is a large battery that is recharged from an outlet by plugging in thus enabling it to drive extended distances using just electricity.

On the other hand, in normal hybrid vehicle, battery is charged from energy generated from running conventional engine and the range offered on electric drive mode is shorter.

"We would have liked plug-in hybrids to be included as part of the electric vehicles," he added.

Pawah argued that lowering tax incidence on plug-in hybrids can lead to much faster adoption of electric mobility in the country as it would help in addressing range anxiety concerns that customers have. "If we want to achieve results earlier, then the approach should be plug-in hybrids leading to pure electrical vehicles.

That will make transition much easier but with current policies it does not allow us to do that," he added. He asked the government to look "at plug-in hybrid as equal to electric vehicles for the transition phase" to accelerate movement towards green mobility. BMW already sells both pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles across the world.

While welcoming the government's plan to move towards completely electric mobility by 2030, Pawah, however, cited two major challenges towards achieving the goal. "One, infrastructure needs to be set up to go purely electric and that will take time. It cannot happen immediately," he said.

The second challenge is the concern among consumers of getting stranded in the middle of the road when the battery charge runs out, he added.

"So the transition to electric mobility from a customer viewpoint would be a bigger hurdle," Pawah said. The government is working on a scheme to provide electric cars on zero down payment for which people can pay out of their savings on expensive fossil fuels, for becoming 100 per cent electric vehicle nation by 2030.

When asked about the impact of higher tax on hybrids on the company's plans for introduction of green vehicles, Pawah said: "Obviously we will have to wait till infrastructure is set up before we bring in the electric vehicles."

Auto industry has already said that the increased tax incidence on hybrids is against the government's long-term goal of promoting green vehicles in the country.


German luxury carmaker BMW is investing another Rs 130 crore in India to enhance operations, taking its total investment in the country to Rs 1,250 crore.

The company will launch new version of its locally manufactured 5 Series later this month and 6 Series Gran Turismo (GT) model next year to strengthen its product portfolio in India.

"Since 2007, we have been consistently investing in India. This year, we are going to increase our investment further to up to Rs 1,250 crore on a cumulative basis," BMW India President Vikram Pawah told PTI.

BMW has invested Rs 1,120 crore in the Indian operations so far.

The new investment will go into BMW group operations, including Motarrad (two-wheeler business) as well as the financial services arm, he added.

With the fresh investments, the total investments on BMW group operations in India will go up to Rs 520 crore and on BMW Financial Services to Rs 730 crore.

The company is looking to expand its dealer network in the country. It currently has 18 partners and is present in 30 cities.

"Besides, we have 63 touch points. Out of these, we have 41 sales outlets. So we want to take these 41 outlets to 50 by 2018," Pawah said.

In other emerging towns, in addition to 30 major cities, the company utilises its 'Mobile Studios' to expand the market further.

This year, the weather proof BMW mobile studio will cover 50 towns, Pawah said.

On new product launches, he said: "As part of our power to lead strategy, product offensive starts. In next two weeks, we will be launching the new 5 Series."

The model has played a big role in the success of BMW in India. Since 2007, the company has sold around 66,000 vehicles in India with 5 Series having contributed close to 30 per cent of the total sales.

"Next year, we will be introducing another model in between 5 and 7 Series, called the 6 GT and that would again define a new segment and create new market for us," Pawah said.

On local manufacturing, Pawah said: "We are locally producing eight of our total 16 models that are available. So as we introduce new models, also the new 5 Series, will be produced in the Chennai plant."

The 6 GT would also be manufactured locally, he added.

"So all our main volume drivers as we call them will also be produced locally. Niche models will continue to come in CBU form. As the volumes increase we will continue to evaluate as what can manufactured locally," Pawah said.

The company's Chennai plant has an installed capacity of 14,000 units on a single shift basis. It started operations in March 2007 and currently produces BMW's 1 Series, 3 Series, 3 Series Gran Turismo, 5 Series, 7 Series along with SUVs X1, X3 and X5.

When asked about competition with its German rivals Mercedes and Audi to be the number one player in the luxury car market in India, he said BMW's focus is to remain the fastest growing premium car brand in India.

In the January-May period this year, BMW has sold 3,533 units in India at a growth of 8 per cent.

Pawah further said the company would be focusing on its power to lead strategy to grow the entire premium car market.

"The idea is to grow the segment. Currently in India, premium car segment remains less than 2 per cent of the total passenger vehicle market (3 million last fiscal) as compared to 5-10 per cent in various countries," Pawah said.

The efforts should be to at least make it 5 per cent and and eventually 10 per cent of the PV market, he added.

The premium vehicle segment is estimated to be around 35,000 units per annum currently.
Patrick Ekema, The Buea Mayor W. Musa

The Mayor of the Buea council in Fako division, South West Region, Patrick Ekema Esunge, has disclosed that they planned the delay of some SDF Members of Parliament and Senators sometime back in December 2016 to prevent them from holding a peaceful gathering at the Molyko stadium, The Post newspaper has reported.

The newspaper quotes the mayor as saying, We hatched and executed plans to frustrate the move of SDF Members of Parliament to stage a march on December 5, 2016 from the molyko Omnisport stadium to the governors office which would have provoked untold consequences to the State.

Patrick Ekema made the statements in a council session while enumerating his successes so far as Mayor of the council during a session.

SDF Senators and MPs were trapped at the Parliamentarian Flat for close to two hours as some thugs hired by the mayor besieged the premises promising hell on the law makers.

They brandished placards asking the August guests to go and march in Bamenda and not Buea which they say is a peaceful town.

It took the intervention of the divisional Officer for Buea, Kouam Wokam Paul for the law makers to finally go to the stadium for their exercise.

The plan by the mayor succeeded to an extend because the SDF militants met at the stadium with Ni John FRU Ndi on stage talking on the Anglophone problems.

Patrick Ekema has been noted for resisting the so called struggle by some unidentified men who are fighting for the restoration of the state of Southern Cameroon.

Operation ghost town has met with such resistance from the mayor who has been shutting down shops whose owners respect the ghost town.
| BY Ricki Green |

The Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity has released another three shortlists. These can be downloaded below. A detailed analysis of Australias performance will follow shortly.
| BY Ricki Green |

Australian director James Cooper has returned to Australia and has joined Luscious roster of directors.

No stranger to advertising, Cooper enjoyed a successful career as a creative at independent agencies in London and BBDO Dublin, before following his passion for filmmaking and establishing himself as a content director on Americas West Coast.

He has directed online content for major brands, including Volvo, California Tourism, Powers Whiskey and Apple, as well as numerous short films.
| BY Ricki Green |

Paul Yole (pictured left) has written for Campaign Brief at the last eleven Cannes Lions. This year he is looking out for whats new and whats recurring.

Touchpoint Evangelist. Seriously guys, what kind of job title is that?

As it happens, it belongs to a really bright and articulate social media expert from the great Tokyo agency, Hakuhodo. Haruko Minagawa was presenting today alongside her colleagues Kazuaki Hashida and Takahiro Hosoda. And it was really interesting.

Hakuhodo sessions always provide something unusual and stimulating, if you can get past the ridiculous job titles. Their session today was entitled Appetite Creativity  creating desire in the social era. For a moment I thought the food metaphor was going to be very contrived but it turned out to be almost perfect. In an imperfect kind of way.

Hakuhodos provocation is that in todays world everyone is overloaded with information, which is a bit like eating a bowl of spaghetti the size of a bucket. It kind of kills your desire to eat anything else.

Which is why 98% of the 4,000 messages we are exposed to each day will be totally ignored.

The challenge for marketers is how to stimulate the customers appetite to learn more about their product or service. Think of it like an aperitif. You drink it before a meal but somehow, it just tastes a bit weird. It has an imperfect taste, which leaves the body craving food. That is the job of an aperitif  to stimulate the appetite.

So how can marketers stimulate consumers appetite to seek more information about their brand? The answer, as it turns out, lies in imperfection. Stimulate just enough to create a desire for more.

Consider restaurants. Would you rather eat at one that has a wonderful written description of the dishes, or one with full colour photos of every course proudly displayed on the rather large board on the street outside?

Hakuhodo presented a few examples of how this approach can work.

1. Limit the experience to stimulate interest.

Instead of full blown test drives to promote their ProPILOT Technology, Nissan created a compelling experience to showcase how the technology works in real life. But instead of using cars they applied it to a completely different environment. See the case study here.

2. Limit the information you provide.

The theory here is that imperfect or incomplete information stimulates the imagination.

So instead of providing a lecture to Tokyo residents to prepare for earthquakes, Yahoo decided to make people care enough about the issue to want to find out more. They dramatised the potential impact through their campaign It was this high.

3. Limit context and predictability

AIG took an unusual approach to promote the All Blacks visit to Tokyo with their Tackle the risk spot. Surprising but undeniably stimulating.
| BY Ricki Green |

Simon Vicars (left), creative group head, Colenso BBDO, Auckland is representing NZ on the Cannes Radio Lions jury. Vicars, along with most of the other New Zealand and Australian judges, reports exclusively for CB.

Going through Heathrow the Customs lady asked if I was heading to Cannes for work or a holiday. I said, Work and then instantly felt guilty.

But today, we actually worked.

Radio has no pre-judging. That means, how can I put this diplomatically, there were some mingers.

Heaps of mingers, actually.

For a large part of the day we were baffled and bored, and we were people with an obligation to listen.

I cant imagine the public  who are free to change channels or throw their stereo in a lake  would have stuck around for many of the payoffs.

The next part of the blog is meant to go, but amongst the grey haze of mediocrity there was work that shone bright like a diamond or something like that.

And there was, but jeez it was scarce.
| BY Ricki Green |

Starcom Brisbane has hosted its inaugural Starcom Challenge event in conjunction with Queensland University of Technology, where 10 students responded to a live brief as part of Starcoms commitment to nurturing young talent.

The all-day event, held on June 16th at Starcom, was the first ever event of its type hosted by a media agency. Starcom has built on its existing relationship with QUT to give students the opportunity to work within an agency for a day.

The 10 students, working in four teams, were given a brief from client Footlocker for its Back to School campaign with workshops helping students to interpret the brief and mentors advising teams how to respond with a media strategy and recommendations. Starcom staff judged the entries.

The winning team of Jessica Pokorski and Jasmine Hurt will have lunch with Starcom general manager Caleb Watson where they have the chance to learn about working in the media industry.

Says Watson: Starcom Brisbane already has a strong relationship with QUT, with our staff lecturing and tutoring there and through our internship program each semester, however, we wanted to build on that relationship with a fun and challenging experience for students.

The responses to the Footlocker brief from the teams of students were very impressive and demonstrated some great ideas, which made choosing a winner very challenging. Id like to congratulate all the students and look forward to an informative lunch with the winners.

Says Louise Kelly, the subject coordinator for Advertising and IMC at QUT: The Starcom Challenge is a wonderful initiative that provides our students with the opportunity for some hands on experience in a media agency with real world mentors, along with the challenges that come with working in teams and creating ideas under pressure.

One of the participating students said: I loved how the Starcom Challenge gave us a great insight into agency land and how media agencies tackle a brief.

Watson said the Starcom Challenge was such as success it will now become an annual event.
| BY Ricki Green |

Rallying the community to show its support for survivors of domestic violence, creative agency Burd has partnered with Australian charity Two Good to help launch Two Good Care  a luxurious skincare range with a social conscience.

The initiative sees Two Good match every Two Good Care skincare pack sold nationally with a donation of the product pack to a mother affected by domestic violence, living in a shelter or refuge in Australia.

The product launch first kicked off in May with an intimate dinner held in Sydney in the lead up to Mothers Day. Mums from the local community were invited to purchase a ticket to attend, with each ticket also covering the cost of a mother living in a shelter or refuge to attend.

Australian comedy writer and stand-up comedian Catherine Deveny delivered a moving speech that celebrated motherhood in all its iterations as guests came together to share a meal (catered by OTama Carey), and to learn more about the Two Good cause.

Bloggers and influencers including I Quit Sugars Sarah Wilson, Training for Chocolates Victoria Norton, and actress Elizabeth Debicki have also joined the conversation on social as Two Good continues to celebrate the sometimes less-than-glamorous reality of motherhood via Facebook and Instagram, encouraging mothers to #loveanothermother by purchasing Two Good Care products.

Says Rob Caslick, co-founder, Two Good: Burd was awesome and completely nailed the brief. The team made the whole process fun and taught us things about our service we didnt even know. In the past month, weve seen over 1,000 Two Good Care packs donated to womens refuges and shelters across the country  and that number keeps growing. I look forward to working with Burd in the future.

Says Kimmie Neidhardt, co-founder and creative partner, Burd: We are extremely passionate about creating work that can actually make a difference to peoples lives. And, as mothers, we felt especially privileged to be able to help mothers living in refuges, who deserve nothing but love, appreciation and respect.
| BY Ricki Green |

WorkSafe Victoria and the Department of Health and Human Services bring attention to the threat healthcare workers face everyday in a new campaign launched this week.

Developed by The Shannon Company, and directed by FINCHs Derin Seale, the confronting spots shines a light on the fact that up to 95% of healthcare workers have experienced verbal or physical assault.

The spots feature various healthcare workers talking to camera about the risks they face whilst trying to provide help to patients and their families as they walk through a workplace that moves in slow-motion and directly into an act of violence that then abruptly switches to real-time speed. At the moment of impact the screen cuts to black and the title Its Never OK appears.

Violence against health care workers is a hot button issue after recent attacks in Victoria made national headlines, prompting a feature story on A Current Affair this week.

Says Emma Hill, managing partner/creative director, The Shannon Company: When we were first briefed, we were staggered by the figures and stories health care workers told about how theyre treated everyday, by everyday Victorians.

With the collaborative passion and energy of FINCH, we hope weve created a campaign which not only gives every Victorian healthcare worker a voice, but that also changes something in all of us. And that from now on, no matter what, well always treat these incredibly compassionate and skilled workers with the respect they deserve.

Client: WorkSafe Victoria

Director of Marketing & Communications: Susan Crnkovic-Jones

A/g Manager, Marketing Insights & Programs: Amelia Vercoe

Marketing & Communications Consultant Stephanie McCallum

Technical Inspector (FSME): Amanda Tonks

Agency: The Shannon Company

Managing Partner/Creative Director: Emma Hill

Art Director: Kim Hellier

Agency Producer: Jo Theoharis

Group Business Director: David Dumas

Business Director: Natella Riftin

Production: FINCH

Director: Derin Seale

Producer: Jackie Adler

Executive Producer: Corey Esse

Editor: Gary Woodyard / Nicky Liddell

Cinematographer: Matt Toll
Sunday, June 18, 2017 at 10:21PM

Google, like all the other giant tech companies, are under pressure to help get rid of extremists online presence. And the tech giants response to this includes four steps to help flag and remove pro-terrorism content on its pages, especially on YouTube. One way is to rely on its machine learning tech that can automatically flag and take out terrorist videos. At the same time, itll keep up innocently-posted clips like news reports. Another way is to build on its counter-radicalization system, which will show anti-extremist ads to would-be terrorist recruits and pull ads from extremist videos.

But artificial intelligence wont be enough, as Google acknowledges. The company intends to greatly increase the number of people who are part of its YouTube Trusted Flagger program to help find these terrorist material faster. The company is also working with anti-extremism groups to help get rid of recruiting-oriented content. Google even wants to take on videos on YouTube it sees as containing inflammatory religious or supremacist material. These will come with warnings and Google will stop them from getting ad revenue, viewing recommendations, and comments. Whether these measures will work is an entirely different story, but we appreciate the effort.
About 50 alleged gangsters, including this unidentified person, were arrested in this raid on a Chinese restaurant in 2002. Mr Guo admitted he was in the restaurant that night but denied any knowledge of the strong Triad presence. Photo: Steve Lunam
"The program we have applied to through the ACT government is where there will be a fixed price for the energy generated,"he said. "We have applied for a $200 a megawatt hour and they are considering that along with the other aspects of our application."
"The National Disability Insurance Agency has gone there, but also state government insurance activities like the Transport Accident Commission and Worksafe. Geelong is an example of where you can do decentralisation but in a way that doesn't limit the career prospects of the staff involved in the future."
The high speed 6,600km Marea subsea cable linking the USA and Europe, has arrived at Arritera Beach in the Basque town of Sopelana. Belonging to Facebook, Microsoft and Telxius, Telefonicas subsea division, Marea is now the highest capacity subsea cable to ever cross the Atlantic, consisting of eight fibre pairs and a design capacity of up to 160Tbps.

Speaking on the arrival of the cable, Telxius chief operations officer, Rafael Arranz said: This is an historic occasion and the result of many years' work", and that thanks to this project "Spain is the anchor point for one of the most important underwater cables in the world".

The project sees Facebook, Microsoft and Telxius, working together in the design, construction and deployment of the subsea cable which provides high speed, reliable connections to the cloud and online services for their customers.

Telxius said the cable has been designed with openness in mind and is interoperable with a variety of different network equipment. In doing so, there are lower overall costs and upgrades can be completed with ease. The system can also evolve in line with optical technology innovation, something which is crucial in order to meet growing customer needs.

At the anchoring ceremony Facebook spokesman Kevin Salvadori reiterated the company's desire for a "more open and connected" world, in which people can share "experiences in any corner of the world".

Frank Rey operations director at Microsoft, pointed out that our daily lives depend on the internet and the new cable with aid in speeding up connections, he went so far as to say: It is a new milestone in Internet infrastructures."

He also highlighted the "unique" and "excellent" relationship with Telefonica that has made the Marea project possible. He added: "We can make the global Internet grow, make these networks more profitable and the world a more open place."

Telxius will act as operator of the system, selling capacity as part of their existing infrastructure wholesale business. Construction is due to be completed by August 2017, and there are plans in the future to extend the cable into the Near East, Africa, Asia and Latin America.
NTT DATA UK has announced the appointment of Simon Williams as its new CEO. Williams takes over from Steve Mitchener who retired back in May, officially assuming his new role as of 7 June 2017.

I am privileged to have been asked to lead NTT DATA in the UK. We are built on a foundation of excellent delivery, strong teamwork and innovation and I am excited to continue working with such a talented team. As a business, we pride ourselves on building long-term relationships based around advisory services and strategic transformation, said Williams.

Williams has over 23 years experience to bring to the position, having started the consultancy Value Team as CEO back in 2008. After its acquisition in 2012 Williams was promoted to head of telco media, insurance consulting and digital at NTT DATA UK, including the launch of NTT DATA Digital.

Williams has worked in various industries including telecoms, media, financial services and the public sector. He has worked in 10 different countries and launched operators in India and Hungary.

Patrizio Mapelli, CEO for NTT DATA Europe, Middle East and Africa added: I'm delighted that Simon has accepted the role. He will drive growth in the UK with consulting-led client engagement, enabling our clients to create value through technology innovation and transformational change.
Millennial Moms Review: 2022 Acura MDX is pretty close to the perfect family car

I dont know if perfect is attainable, especially considering weve got the world of options when it comes to modern vehicles. Were spoiled and, as such, we have very specific needs and wants. Driving-wise, the 2022 Acura MDX is one of my favourite ...
Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact.

Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here.

Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing.

You are our people. You Care. We Care2.
An official employment notification has been released by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, calling out for interested, eligible candidates to apply for the positions of Nursing Officer.

Vacancy Availability

Number of posts: 257

Name of the posts

Nursing Officer

Eligibility

Educational requirement

The candidates interested in applying for this post should have any of the following qualifications

Have completed a BSc (Hons) in Nursing from a recognised university or institute

Have completed regular course in BSc Nursing from a recognised university or institute

Have basic BSc Nursing degree from a recognised university institute

Have diploma in general nursing midwifery from a recognised board or council with experience

Age criteria:

The age of the candidates applying for these posts can be maximum 30 years and minimum 18 years. (Relaxation will be provided as per the government norms for the reserved categories)

Salary details

Those candidates who are selected will be getting a monthly salary of Rs 9,300 to Rs 34,800, along with a grade pay of Rs 4,600.

Selection process

The candidates will be selected on the basis of a written test only.

How to apply for AIIMS Recruitment?

In order to apply for the AIIMS Recruitment, the candidates interested in these posts are required to apply at the official website www.aiims.edu

Dates to remember

The last date for submission of online application is July 14

Written examination will be conducted on September 11

Also Read: AIIMS Recruitment: Apply for Resident and Tutor Posts Now!
Students who gave their CBSE class 12 exam this year are again in a state of quandary as the evaluation has begotten a lot of confusion.

CBSE class 12 exam results: evaluation incorrect

Many students have complained of less marks and had applied for re-verification. The process revealed a shocking result of relatively higher marks for candidates, meaning that the evaluation that happened first was erroneous and careless.

Prior to the exam, students and parents were already stressed out fearing the decision on the marks moderation policy which could have been a game changer in their lives if altered in the last minute. However, the Delhi High Court ordered that the policy remains unaltered for the current batch of students and gave them timely relief to their woe.

Student protests due to incorrect evaluation in CBSE Class 12 results

Students in Odisha protested against the Board regarding the CBSE Class 12 exam result. Some students had got single digit marks in few subjects and upon verification found a vast difference between the first released marks and the verified marks. Orissa High Court had directed the Board to reverify the marks.

How does Reverification happen in CBSE Class 12 results?

CBSE does not allow re-evaluating the marks for an answer. Instead, if answers are skipped from evaluation, such apathy would be addressed and also re-totalling would take place. 'There will be no re-evaluation of any evaluated answer. However, if any answer has not been evaluated, the same would be reported by the candidate to respective Regional Offices of CBSE not later than seven days of receipt of a photocopy of answer book,' reads the Board's notification.

CBSE UGC NET 2017 Date Sparks Students' Apprehension
Many enthusiasts have been begging for BMW to bring back the iconic M1 supercar for years, but it seems very unlikely the German marque will do so. Fortunately, the world can still enjoy the wonder of the original, especially the racing ProCar variant.



Created in 1979 for a one-make series that served as a support series for many European F1 races, the M1 ProCar was vastly different from the road car and only shared a handful of components.

Complementing the aerodynamic modifications that come with a car of this kind was a modified BMW straight-six engine delivering 470 hp at 9,000 rpm and mated to a 5-speed transmission from ZF. With almost 200 hp more than the standard M1, the ProCar was certainly no slouch and, as this video shows, sounds particularly impressive when driven to its limits.

Filmed at various circuits, including Spa Francorchamps and Monza, the clip shows the M1 ProCar not only emitting a lovely howl but also spitting flames like a dragon straight out Game of Thrones.

VIDEO
Photo: wisegeek.com

By Michael Cote

Migraines cause throbbing or pulsating head pain that can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

They usually start on one side of the head and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Some people experience visual disturbances, known as an aura, before or during a migraine.

Migraines can be moderate or downright debilitating, and are recurring.

According to the Mayo Clinic, allopathic medicine doesnt really know what causes migraines. Genetics, environmental factors, and brain chemicals may play a role. Generally treatment focuses on managing migraine symptoms rather than curing it.

There are a variety of medications that may be prescribed for migraines like steroids, beta-blockers, antidepressants, anti-convulsants, botox, and pain relievers including opioids.

Research has consistently demonstrated that acupuncture is significantly better for managing migraines than conventional care.

Acupuncture is just as effective, if not slightly better, than prophylactic drugs and acupuncture has few, if any, adverse effects.

Interestingly, sham acupuncture (an attempt at a placebo for an invasive procedure for scientific analysis) was shown to be just as effective for migraines as conventional drug treatments.

Eleven acupuncture treatments given within a six-week period was just as effective as beta-blockers taken daily over a six-month period.

Clearly, acupuncture is a great option for migraines.

According to allopathic medical theory, acupuncture helps migraine symptoms by:

modulating cranial blood flow

promoting the release of vascular and immunomodulatory factors

releasing endorphins and other neurohumoral factors that change the processing of pain in the brain and spinal cord

reducing the degree of cortical spreading depression, plasma levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide, and substance P

affecting 5-hydroxytryptamine levels in the brain

According to Chinese medical theory, pain is caused by a lack of circulation. This lack of circulation can be from a number of factors, and the way we treat migraines depends on the cause of the poor circulation.

Is the digestive system nourishing the brain properly? Are the liver and kidneys filtering blood adequately? Are the internal organs working together in harmony or are they quarrelling?

These are just some of the things we want to find out when someone has migraines.

Its not possible to delve into all the nuances of a Chinese medicine approach in a brief article, but here is a case to help you get an idea of how we approach migraines in Chinese medicine.

An 88-year-old patient, well call Eugenia, came to me complaining of head pain with nausea. Her migraines started with onset of menopause at 40. Her mother had a history of migraines.

The pain was constant and dull with occasional throbbing and mostly concentrated on the frontal region of the head. On a pain scale of one to 10, if 10 is the worst, Eugenias pain was 8/10.

She couldnt sleep without taking a sleeping pill, which she started 49 years ago. Other medications she took were doxepin, fesoterodine, and multivitamins.

She had seen her family doctor recently and hadnt had any CT scans. Her pulses felt normal, but her tongue was red with a yellow coating, and trembling.

I diagnosed Eugenia with YangMing headaches from Wind-Heat and Kidney Jing deficiency.

In laymans terms, I thought her migraines originated from a pathogen she got when was younger that caused residual inflammation and she had a kidney system that wasnt functioning optimally.

Because she had this problem for so long, I suggested a course of 20 acupuncture treatments starting twice a week and then less frequently as symptoms improved.

I expected Eugenia to notice a difference within eight treatments. I also prescribed the herbal formulas Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San with Yi Guan Jian taken 1.5-2 hours apart from her medications.

Eugenia saw me twice one week, but then didnt come back for a month and complained that she still felt the same. On the fourth treatment one week later, she said the pain was 6/10. Eugenia complained that it was taking too long to reduce the pain, so she stopped coming to see me.

Even though she didnt follow the treatment plan she still had a 20 per cent reduction of pain. If she had followed the treatment plan, I think she would have had faster results and even less pain.

Its important to understand that acupuncture doesnt immediately fix everything, but with time and a little patience, it can lead to less frequent and severe migraines by addressing underlying causes while offering a safer option than many medications.

For a summary of the research on acupuncture for migraines, including the Cochrane Review, please visit the British Acupuncture Council website.

Michael Cote is a registered practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He can be reached at the Okanagan Acupuncture Centre, 1625 Ellis St., in downtown Kelowna.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.
Photo: Contributed Photo: Contributed Photo: Contributed 1 2 3 Detectives investigating the huge fire at the Grenfell Tower in west London have released images and video footage from inside the building that show "the scale of the challenge" investigators face in recovering bodies.

The photos show apartment units with almost nothing recognizable left inside.

The images were taken by a police recovery team that has been working with members of the London Fire Brigade and the London Ambulance Service to browse through what is left of the charred building.

All the images were taken in units where police know that everyone inside has been accounted for.

-with files from CTV
Photo: The Canadian Press "Infowars" host Alex Jones

A parent of one of the children killed in the 2012 Connecticut school shootings says she won't view the Megyn Kelly interview of conspiracy theorist Alex Jones that aired on NBC's "Sunday Night With Megyn Kelly."

Nicole Hockley's six-year-old son, Dylan, was among the 20 children and six educators killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. She said Monday she won't watch the interview for "obvious" reasons; Jones has called the school shooting a hoax.

In the days preceding her segment on Jones, Kelly had received widespread criticism for giving a platform to a man whose false allegations only added to the pain of the Newtown tragedy and even encouraged people to harass relatives of the victims. In the interview, Jones never gave a direct answer when Kelly pressed him to admit he was wrong and continued to raise questions about the shootings.

One Newtown parent did appear on Kelly's program: Neil Heslin, whose six-year-old son, Jesse Lewis, was killed. When Kelly asked him if he had anything to say to Jones for Father's Day, when the interview aired, he responded, "I think he's blessed to have his children to spend the day with, to speak to. I don't have that."

Lawyers representing 12 people who lost loved ones at Sandy Hook urged NBC News officials not to air the interview.
Photo: The Canadian Press Families cool themselves in a stream in Lahore, Pakistan.

Killer heat is getting worse, a new study shows.

Deadly heat waves like the one now broiling the American West are bigger killers than previously thought and they are going to grow more frequent, according to a new comprehensive study of fatal heat conditions. Still, those stretches may be less lethal in the future, as people become accustomed to them.

A team of researchers examined 1,949 deadly heat waves from around the world since 1980 to look for trends, define when heat is so severe it kills and forecast the future. They found that nearly one in three people now experience 20 days a year when the heat reaches deadly levels. But the study predicts that up to three in four people worldwide will endure that kind of heat by the end of the century, if global warming continues unabated.

"The United States is going to be an oven," said Camilo Mora of the University of Hawaii, lead author of a study published Monday in the journal Nature Climate Change .

The study comes as much of the U.S. swelters through extended triple-digit heat. Temperatures hit records of 106, 105 and 103 in Santa Rosa, Livermore and San Jose, Calif., on Sunday, as a heat wave was forecast to continue through midweek. In late May, temperatures in Turbat, Pakistan, climbed to about 128 degrees (53.5 C); if confirmed, that could be among the five hottest temperatures reliably measured on Earth.

"This is already bad. We already know it," Mora said. "The empirical data suggest it's getting much worse."
Photo: The Canadian Press Police investigate suspect car after a man rammed into a police convoy on the Champs Elysees on Monday.

A man on the radar of French authorities was killed Monday after ramming a car carrying explosives into a police vehicle in the capital's Champs-Elysees shopping district, prompting a fiery blast, officials said. France's anti-terrorism prosecutor opened an investigation.

No police officers or passers-by were hurt, the Paris police department said. It is unclear why the attacker drove into police, though officials said the incident was apparently deliberate.

Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said the man was killed after an attempted attack on a police convoy, saying that shows the threat is still very high in the country and justifies a state of emergency in place since 2015. He said he will present a bill Wednesday at a Cabinet meeting to extend the state of emergency from July 15, its current expiration date, until Nov. 1.

He says the current situation in France shows a new security law "is needed" and the measure would "maintain a high security level."

Two police officials told The Associated Press that a handgun was found on the driver, who they said was badly burned after the vehicle exploded. They identified the man as a 31-year-old man from the Paris suburb of Argenteuil who had an "S'' file, meaning he was flagged for links to extremism.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal details of the incident, the second this year on the city's most famous avenue, which is popular with tourists from around the world. An attacker defending the Islamic State group fatally shot a police officer on the Champs-Elysees in April, days before a presidential election, prompting an extensive security operation.
Photo: The Canadian Press A sign warns people that the trail head is closed on Monday, June 19, 2017, after a fatal bear mauling at Bird Ridge Trail in Anchorage, Alaska.

A 16-year-old boy who was fatally mauled by a black bear during a weekend mountain race in Alaska reportedly called his brother while he was being chased by the animal in a rare predatory attack, officials said Monday.

Patrick Cooper of Anchorage was attacked Sunday afternoon after he got lost and veered off the trail during the juniors division of the Robert Spurr Memorial Hill Climb race south of Anchorage, race director Brad Precosky said.

State park staffers were scouring the area Monday looking for the bear, which ran off after it was shot by a ranger, according to state Fish and Game spokesman Ken Marsh. He said Sunday's attack was believed to have been a rare predatory move, not a defensive action such as when a female bear will protect her cubs.

"It's very unusual," Marsh said of the mauling. "It's sort of like someone being struck by lightning."

Responders ultimately located the boy, whose body was found about a mile up the path, at about 1,500 vertical feet (457 vertical meters). Precosky said the bear was found at the site, guarding the body.

A park ranger shot the 250-pound (113-kilogram) bear in the face, but the animal ran away.

Alaska State Troopers said the boy's remains were airlifted from the scene on Sunday.

Last week, a juvenile and two young adults sustained minor injuries when a female brown bear with two cubs attacked them. Authorities shot at that bear, but it ran off.

Areas where wilderness races such as Sunday's take place are inherently risky when it comes to bear encounters, Precosky said. Competitors in the Bird Ridge race sign a liability waiver as part of the registration process.
Photo: Contributed

A former Miss America who helped rally the nation during the Second World War by selling millions of dollars' worth of war bonds has died. Venus Ramey was 92.

A funeral home in Science Hill, Kentucky, says the 1944 Miss America died Saturday.

Ramey was the first redhead to win the Miss America title and the first to be photographed in colour.

After winning the crown, she embarked on a vaudeville tour and sold $5 million in war bonds. Her image graced the side of a B-17 that made 68 raids over Germany and other Nazi-occupied nations.

She found renewed fame late in life when she shot out the tires of would-be thieves at her Kentucky farm.
Celanese Corporation and funds managed by Blackstone announced a definitive agreement to form a JV that will create a global acetate tow supplier. Celanese and Blackstone will own 70 percent and 30 percent of the JV, respectively.

Transaction Overview

Under the terms of the agreement, Celanese will contribute its Cellulose Derivatives business unit, including its equity interest in existing JVs with China National Tobacco Corporation, and Blackstone will contribute its Rhodia Acetow business unit, which it recently acquired from Solvay. The new company is expected to generate 2017 annual pro forma revenue of approximately $1.3 billion with around 2,400 employees. The JV will have an extended global footprint that includes eight wholly-owned manufacturing facilities and three existing JV sites.

The new company will be well positioned to meet customers current and evolving needs efficiently while providing the highest level of quality and service. The complementary nature of the tow businesses and a combination of technology expertise will result in synergies mainly from optimization of supply chain networks and procurement of raw materials, energy, equipment, and other services.

This is an exciting opportunity for Celanese to partner with Blackstone in a way that creates significant value for all stakeholders. The combination of these tow assets will enhance our ability to serve customers more efficiently and reliably from a global production footprint while also creating growth opportunities for employees, said Mark Rohr, chairman and chief executive officer of Celanese. Celanese has delivered strong results in the last several years through differentiated business models. This transaction gives us the opportunity to partially monetize Cellulose Derivatives and reallocate significant capital to higher growth businesses within Celanese to accelerate our growth momentum.

Lionel Assant, Head of Private Equity Europe at Blackstone, said: The combination of these two companies provides an excellent opportunity to create a new, international business focused on innovation and growth to the benefit of its customers and employees. We are excited to work with Celanese on this strategic development./en/
Passengers line up to board American Airlines 2381 flight to Orlando, Fla., at LAX. Shares of airlines stock have continued to climb despite a series of scandals over the last few months. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

A passenger is bloodied as he is dragged from his seat in April after refusing to give it up to crew members on a United Airlines flight.

Later that same month, a family flying home from a Hawaiian vacation is booted from a Delta Air Lines flight after a dispute over seating for an infant.

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In May, Violence erupted at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida after Spirit Airlines canceled several flights because of a labor dispute with pilots.

All three scenes have become content for viral videos, viewed by millions of people worldwide. But despite such ugly incidents involving the nation's airlines, their stock prices have continued to rise.

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Shares of American, Delta and United have each climbed by at least 5% this year while Southwest Airlines has climbed 20%. A New York Stock Exchange index of airline stocks, Arca Airline Index, has jumped nearly 150% over the last 10 years.

While airlines suffer short-term reputation damage by such incidents, experts say the industry has become so consolidated after a series of mergers and acquisitions that it would be difficult to get travelers to abandoned their favorite airline.

"Business travelers, the most lucrative customers from the airline's perspective, tend to stick with airlines that offer the most flights from their home airport and on which the traveler probably has lots of frequent-flier miles," said Philip A. Baggaley, managing director at Standard & Poor's Global.

Jan K. Brueckner, a UC Irvine economics professor, added that the U.S. economy remains strong and "people don't have any choice besides the airlines if they need to get to a faraway place."

hugo.martin@latimes.com

To read more about the travel and tourism industries, follow @hugomartin on Twitter.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, the state's largest health insurer, is taking steps to return to the Obamacare exchange next year despite uncertainty over the health care law. (Susan Montoya Bryan / AP)

Illinois' largest health insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, is taking steps to return to the Obamacare exchange next year despite uncertainty over the fate of the health care law.

The news comes as some insurers in other parts of the country pull out of the marketplace for 2018.

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In Illinois, insurers have until Wednesday to file proposed rates with the Illinois Department of Insurance. Colleen Miller, a spokeswoman for Blue Cross, confirmed Monday the insurer is submitting rates and plans for next year.

However, the extent of Blue Cross' participation in the exchange is undecided, she said. This year, Blue Cross is the only insurer offering individual PPO plans on the Illinois exchange. It's also the only insurer offering individual exchange plans in Lake and McHenry counties.

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"We're working with regulators at the state and federal level to achieve a stable and sustainable market," Miller said in an email.

Miller said the insurer is not releasing its proposed rates.

The Illinois Department of Insurance did not respond to a question Monday about when proposed rates will be made public, but last year they were not publicly released until Aug. 1. The state doesn't require proposals to be made public upon filing. Some states have already shared insurers' proposed rates.

Blue Cross raised premiums for individual exchange plans in Illinois this year by 43 to 60 percent, and the company has said potential changes related to the Affordable Care Act could mean significant premium increases.

Those changes would include if the federal government stops enforcing the rule that everyone get health insurance or pay a penalty, and if the federal government stops sending cost-sharing reduction payments to insurers  money meant to help offset the expenses of reducing deductible and copayment costs for lower-income members.

The House already has passed a bill to replace large parts of the Affordable Care Act, and the issue is being considered by the Senate.

A spokesman for insurer Cigna, which offers individual exchange plans in Cook, DuPage, Kankakee, Will and Kane counties this year, declined to comment Monday on whether the insurer would return to the exchange again next year. Attempts to reach Celtic Insurance Co., which offers individual exchange plans in Cook and DuPage counties this year, were unsuccessful.

lschencker@chicagotribune.com

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Twitter @lschencker
Byline Bancorp, with $3.3 billion in assets and 57 branches in the Chicago area, is planning to sell shares of its stock to the public. (Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune)

Byline Bancorp, a Chicago bank with roots in the old Metropolitan Bank Group, is planning to sell shares of its stock to the public.

In a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the bank said Monday it expects its initial public offering to sell for between $19 and $21 a share, which could add up to $137.7 million. The company will be selling 3,775,194 shares of common stock, with 1,924,806 shares held by existing stockholders. Shares will trade under the symbol BY.

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Byline, with $3.3 billion in assets, has 57 branches in the Chicago area and is the sixth most active Small Business Administration lender in the U.S. It became Byline after the $207 million restructuring of Metropolitan Bank Group in June 2013. Metropolitan had suffered sharp losses on loans during the recession. In the IPO filing, Byline says it has significantly improved asset quality while adding $1.3 billion in loans and leases.

The company said the restructuring, led by investor group BXM Holdings, was the largest involving a Chicago bank in over 25 years. Since 2013, Byline said it has reduced bad loans  known as nonperforming loans  to 1 percent of the loans and real estate owned, compared with 28.2 percent at the end of March 2013. The company also has been reducing costs and closed some of its original 88 branches.

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The company reported gross loans and leases of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.6 billion at the end of March.

Byline is a full-service bank with a focus on commercial lending to small and medium-size companies, and plans to grow organically and through acquisitions, the company said. It recently acquired Ridgestone Financial Services, one of the nation's largest SBA lenders.

gmarksjarvis@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @gailmarksjarvis
Muslim countries are turning into fast-growing markets for chocolate, and one Asian country is betting more people around the world are going to want candy and goodies that comply with the religion's strict food laws.

Malaysia doesn't grow much cocoa, but it has become the continent's No. 2 processor by grinding beans imported from neighboring Indonesia, the largest producer outside of Africa and home to the world's biggest Muslim population. With a majority of its own people classified as Muslim, Malaysia already sells mostly cocoa products in compliance with halal principles -- which forbid the use of alcohol and some animal products.

Islam is the world's fastest-growing religion and may have 2.8 billion faithful by 2050, according to the Pew Research Center. Global sales of halal-certified chocolate confectionery will reach $1.7 billion by 2020, growing at a 5 percent annual rate that exceeds the 4 percent gains expected for all chocolates, according to Euromonitor International Ltd. Malaysia is hoping the growth will help to boost exports that were a record last year.

"Halal certification is regarded as essential in emerging, Muslim-majority markets like Indonesia and Malaysia," said Emil Fazira, senior research analyst at Euromonitor in Singapore. "In markets where Muslims have increasing purchasing power, halal-certified products are expected to be preferred over uncertified products."

Based on the teachings in the Koran, the certification doesn't apply just to food ingredients. Processing machines also must avoid alcohol used in cleaning products as well as many animal-based lubricants, including emulsifiers or gelatins extracted from hogs.

Dazzle Food Sdn., which sells specialty couverture and consumer chocolates such as the Mr. Coco and Marie Coco brands, became fully halal in 2009. In addition to the domestic market, it exports to Singapore, Indonesia, China and the Middle East. The Selangor-based company, in an email response to questions, said the certification helped boost sales by 20 percent to 30 percent over the past three years. Demand may grow even faster this year, it said.

Muslim-dominated countries in central Asia and the Middle East provide some of the biggest opportunities for increased exports as their economies expand, according to the Malaysian Cocoa Board. In many, halal-labeled products aren't niche markets but mainstream staples.

"For countries in central Asia, their confectionery industries are developing and growing," Norhaini Udin, Director-General of the Malaysian Cocoa Board, said in an interview at the board's Nilai office on the outskirts Kuala Lumpur. "The Muslim community is more cautious now. If you don't carry the halal logo, you can't capture their market."

Malaysia doesn't sell only chocolate. A large part of its exports are cocoa products, fillings and coatings made on halal-compliant equipment, Norhaini said. Last year, overseas shipments of cocoa beans and products were valued at a record $1.3 billion (5.74 billion ringgit).

The word halal means "permissible" and is part of a system of morals known as sharia. In countries with Muslim minorities, the halal certification has sparked calls for boycotts of products with the halal label.

Nestle SA stopped halal-certification of retail chocolate products sold in Australia as of March 2016. Other chocolate brands may comply with Islamic principles but aren't labeled halal. Mondelez International Inc., which owns brands including Cadbury, produces halal chocolate and confectionery "where there is demand for halal", it said in an email.

That's not an issue in Malaysia, where all the foods that Nestle sells there, including Kit Kat, are halal-certified.

Malaysia has 51 chocolate manufacturers and confectioneries and 194 local chocolate producers, selling about 1.095 billion ringgit a year, according to cocoa board data.

The country is focusing on four regions to boost sales, Norhaini said. The country already has more than 50 percent market share in cocoa powder and butter in Southeast Asia, and 30 percent in the rest of Asia, New Zealand and Australia. In the Middle East it holds a 20 percent market share for cocoa butter and powder imports and in eastern Europe it has a 15 to 17 percent share of chocolate ingredients. Top customers in that region are Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.

"By 2020, we should be able to capture 20 percent from the current position for overall eastern Europe," Norhaini said.

Euromonitor estimates Asia Pacific will continue to be the strongest market for cocoa ingredients, with compound annual growth of 4.5 percent over 2015-2020 compared with 1.7 percent globally. It's already the second-largest region by volume, ahead of North America.

Importantly for chocolate lovers, Dazzle said, the halal certification doesn't affect taste.

"The thing about chocolate is there's a whole amount of science involved," company spokeswoman Awatif said. "The tempering, refining, conching, the things you put inside. I wouldn't say there's a specific difference in taste, it depends a lot more on the processes rather than whether it's halal or not. It's the process that matters more."
Offseason cantaloupes, Walmart executives say, "taste like a piece of wood."

Which is why the retail giant set out to create a "designer" melon that tastes as sweet and flavorful in winter as it does in summer. The Sweet Spark, as it is called, has been in the works for two years and is up to 40% sweeter than the winter fare currently sold at Walmart, Bloomberg originally reported.

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"We sell 10 times as many cantaloupes in the summer than during the fall and winter," said Molly Blakeman, a Walmart spokeswoman. "When we looked closer, it was easy to identify why cantaloupe sales dropped off: They weren't as good in the wintertime as they were in the summertime. This was our way of fixing that."

The company's rollout of its new cantaloupe comes as it braces for competition from German grocers Lidl, which opened its first U.S. stores Thursday, and Aldi, which is investing $3.4 billion to open 900 locations by 2022. Both are known for offering sweeping discounts on groceries  potentially bad news for Walmart, which has long relied on its formidable buying power to offer lower prices than its competitors.

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It also comes as online retail giant Amazon.com Inc.  which has aggressively been grabbing market share away from Walmart  moves to buy upscale grocery chain Whole Foods Market Inc.

Walmart partnered with Bayer  the German corporate giant that is in talks to buy Monsanto Co.  to develop the new cantaloupe seed. The retailer tested 20 types of seeds and spent six months evaluating their fruit before coming up with the winning combination, Blakeman said.

Walmart employees rated the fruit on attributes such as taste, texture and aroma. ("People who tried it were very fanatical about it," Blakeman said.) Employees also voted on the fruit's name, which was whittled down from a list of 150 submissions. The Sweet Spark is not genetically modified.

Walmart's approach  to create an entirely new variety of fruit that fits its needs  is increasingly popular in the United States as grocers, faced with increasing competition and ever-growing demand for novelty produce, look for new ways to stand out, said Courtney Weber, a berry breeder and horticulture professor at Cornell University.

"The goal is to have something that is special in some way," Weber said. "From a plant breeder's standpoint, our goal is to provide improved varieties of fruit  which can mean improving color, flavor, yield or disease resistance."

Japan, where white strawberries have become the ultimate luxury item, is at the forefront of specialty-bred fruits, Weber said. The practice has also begun to take hold in Europe, where fruit makers increasingly sell certain varieties only to certain supermarkets. And in the United States, programs such as Walmart's could ultimately help usher in a new wave of improved fruits and vegetables, said Susan Brown, director of Cornell's Fruit and Vegetable Genomics Initiative.

"Often the problem now is that if we have a new variety of fruit, it's very hard to convince retailers to try something new," Brown said. "When a company like Walmart partners with breeders and growers, they know exactly what the market is for the new fruit, which actually helps everybody  consumers, producers and breeders."

Creating its own breed of cantaloupe  and potentially enlisting a number of growers to produce it  made particular sense for Walmart because of the retailer's size, breeders said. The company has more than 4,600 stores across the country.

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(In 2011, cantaloupes contaminated with listeria, some of which were sold at Walmart, killed 33 people. Walmart later reached a settlement with 23 families for an undisclosed amount.)

"The problem that Walmart has is volume," Weber said. "They're such a big company, and they need so much to fill their shelves, that their only real option if they want to have uniformity and to be able to have it everywhere is to do it this way. It's unlikely one company could grow enough cantaloupes for Walmart."

Cantaloupes, he added, were probably an obvious starting point because they are relatively resilient and sturdy. A more delicate fruit, such as berries, would have required special care and handling, adding to their cost. The thicker skin on cantaloupe means it can be shipped and stored relatively easily, without fear of compromising quality.

The Sweet Spark is grown in Guatemala and Costa Rica. It is sold in 200 U.S. stores, with an expansion planned for later this year.

The company in recent years has expanded its lineup of organic fruits and vegetables to appeal to health-conscious customers. It has also forged exclusive partnerships to sell products such as Oreo O's cereal and Jelly Donut Oreos. Blakeman says the company's next goal is to develop a more flavorful tomato.

Doug McMillon, president and chief executive of Walmart Stores Inc., told reporters this month: "If you try to frame what we're doing, it's pretty simple: We're trying to win customers. We're working on cost and price. We're working on assortment."
Township High School District 214 officials are taking aim at a new special taxing district in Mount Prospect, challenging the justifications the village used to create a district for its downtown and saying it creates an unfair tax burden for some residents.

David Schuler, superintendent for the Arlington Heights-based District 214, said the district filed a lawsuit Monday alleging the "Prospect and Main Tax Increment Financing District" includes a significant portion of an area that has been a tax increment financing district since since 1985.

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"We do not take this action lightly, but when we have significant concerns about the eligibility of a TIF district and when the village has failed to respond to our concerns, we feel we have no other option," Schuler said in a statement.

When an area is designated as a TIF district, property tax revenue  which is divvied up among taxing bodies including public schools  is frozen. Any amount above that, the "increment," is then put into a fund that can be used or borrowed against for projects to fuel economic growth in the area. Those projects can include granting tax breaks to new businesses, paying for public utility improvements and street-scaping, as well as other costs related to redevelopment projects.

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Under Illinois law, TIF districts are limited to 23 years, but towns can receive an extension.

In October 2016, village officials dissolved a downtown district that was created in 1985 and was extended years later. A couple of months later, in January, Mount Prospect officials created a new TIF district that, Schuler said, covers many of the same downtown areas.

Schuler said that effectively, a large part of downtown Mount Prospect will have been under a TIF district for a 55-year period, from 1985 to 2040, and would limit the amount of property tax dollars that would go to other area taxing bodies, including District 214, for decades.

Michael Cassady, village manager for Mount Prospect, said Friday he was disappointed to hear about District 214's intentions to file a lawsuit, saying the joint review board, which is made up of area taxing bodies that would be affected by a new TIF district, including District 214, thoroughly reviewed the proposed downtown TIF district before approving it last fall.

He said he asked Schuler and school board members to postpone filing the lawsuit to give village officials a chance to present their side of the issue to school board members during a meeting in July.

"I hope they don't just jump to the legal process," Cassady said. "That's just forcing the matter on the taxpayers, who will have to fund the litigation, which is a zero-sum game."

Behind closed doors during a meeting Thursday night , school board members at Arlington Heights-based Township High School District 214 discussed the lawsuit, which challenges the legality of creating a new TIF district that covers much of the same areas that were under the purview of another TIF district, school officials said.

Schuler said district officials also have tried contacting Mount Prospect officials numerous times in recent months to share their concerns about the new TIF district and work on a resolution, but the village has yet to respond.

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The new TIF district was created after the local joint review board approved it in November 2016, although District 214, Harper College and a public citizen, Sann Knipple, voted against it. Representatives from Cook County, Elk Grove Township, Mount Prospect School District 57, the Mount Prospect Library and the Mount Prospect Park District all voted to support the TIF.

District 214 officials also said they based their decision to file a lawsuit on the recent findings of an independent consultant hired by the district.

Lake Bluff-based Allen L. Kracower and Associates determined that the properties within the new downtown TIF district in Mount Prospect do not qualify for a TIF designation because the area does not suffer from deterioration, inadequate utilities or a lack of community planning, District 214 officials said.

Schuler also questioned the eligibility of the TIF district and whether it met the required criteria that stipulates the area in downtown Mount Prospect has to be blighted and deteriorating, and in need of tax incentives to spur economic development.

"I drive down Northwest Highway and see a lot of nice, new development that has already taken place in that area," Schuler said.

He also argued that, in the past, the downtown TIF district in Mount Prospect has shifted the tax burden to residents and businesses within District 214's boundaries.

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The District 214 attendance boundaries covers several different communities, including Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines Elk Grove, Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows and Wheeling, meaning residents from all of these towns  not just Mount Prospect  will see their property tax bills increase as a result of the new TIF, according to District 214 officials.

Dan Petro, vice president of the District 214 board, said as the equalized assessed valuation of a property goes up, the tax rate goes down.

"If you also consider the fact that every year we levy a certain amount of money for the district, and let's say that goes up 1 percent," Petro said. "The thing is, without that new growth, everybody else's tax rate goes up to cover the increase in the levy except for the properties that are in the TIF."

Petro compared the dynamic to a large party going out to dinner.

"You go out to dinner with 10 friends, and one of the friends doesn't have any money," he said. "Well, what happens? The other nine pick up the tab. That's pretty much what we're talking about."

Petro said District 214 officials are objecting to the new Mount Prospect TIF  one of 16 TIF district within the district's boundaries  in an effort to stem the tide of TIF tax increases, and the shift of the school property tax burden to residents and businesses outside the TIF.

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"I suggest that our legislators and governor review the misuse of TIF districts and other tax incentives that create additional tax burdens on residents of our community," Petro said.

kcullotta@tribpub.com

Twitter @kcullotta
Entrepreneur Ken Buckman is installing solar panels on roofing at a building he owns along the 11000 block of Davis Road in Elgin. The project will created energy that will be sold back into the grid. (Mike Danahey/ The Courier-News)

It may not always be sunny in Elgin, but building permits were issued in late May and work is underway on what officials say will be one of the city's largest solar energy installation.

Rainy Investments is in the midst of having more than 3,700 solar panels installed on roofs on a 12,000-square-foot industrial building along the 1100 block of Davis Road.

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According to information provided by Elgin's Community Development office, "the panels will generate approximately 1.2 megawatts of electricity, and this renewable energy can then be purchased by users at a below-market rate."

That amount is enough electricity to power approximately 170 single-family homes, according to information provided to Elgin by Commonwealth Edison.

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Community Development Director Marc Mylott said the project was made possible in part by City Council adopting a comprehensive solar energy ordinance in November 2014 and the state of Illinois passing the Illinois Future Energy Jobs Act. Gov. Bruce Rauner signed the act into law last year, and it went into effect June 1.

"We 100 percent wouldn't be doing the Elgin project without the Future Energy Jobs Act," Ken "Bucky" Buckman said. Buckman is CEO of Rainy Investments, which owns and operates the building, and CEO of Rainy Solar Investments, which owns and operates the roof and solar plant project related to it.

According to reports, the act allows Commonwealth Edison to have a 0.195-cent-per-kilowatt-hour charge that ComEd's parent company, Exelon, said is needed to keep two nuclear power plants open. At the same time, it also creates a pool of money, made by utility companies charging and collecting 0.189-cents-per-kilowatt-hour, that is to fund alternative energy projects.

According to the Citizens Utility Board the new law will invest $750 million in programs that incentivize solar and wind energy development, provide training for new energy jobs and help low-income, seniors and disabled military veterans cover their utility bills.

Buckman said the financing of his project also involves the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit program. The Solar Energy Industries Association website states the program offers a 30 percent tax credit for solar systems on residential and commercial properties.

Thomas Russe, senior vice president private banking at Sterling Bank in St. Charles said he has assisted Buckman on other endeavors along with the complicated financing involved in a startup project in a budding industry.

Buckman said, "The Elgin Community Development office and its director, Marc Mylott, have been key to helping us smoothly get the project going, too."

Buckman, who lives on Elgin's far west side, describes himself as a "serial entrepreneur" and said he bought the building for $4 million. The roofs project is running $3.9 million for the purchase and installation of silicon solar panels and $400,000 in costs for reinforcing the roofs to support the panels.

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One roof being fitted with the panels is 20 or so feet above ground. That roof is flat, Everton Walters said, and a challenge is working around small domes cut into the structure to allow natural light into the building space below it. Walters is president, CEO and founder of WCP Solar Services in Naperville and is overseeing the Elgin project.

The other roof involved is another 30 or so feet above the lower roof. That roof has a slight pitch for drainage. So, while the panels on the lower roof are set at a small angle, those above are put in place flush to to that roof, Walters said.

"This project is a $4.3 million test of the new laws. If all works out, and the model is proven, over the next 9-12 months, we will deploy regionwide on a scale of more than $100 million in projects," Buckman said. "Of course, whenever a business plan relies on government incentives or programs, that's rather risky in itself."

The building has one tenant in place, Meyer Metal Systems, and two other spaces for lease, Buckman said. Ironically, Buckman said, none of the electricity generated above will be used to power the buildings below the solar project.

Weather permitting, installation of the panels should be completed by the end of July, Walters said. Buckman said he hopes to have the Elgin-generated energy feeding into the grid within 3 to 6 months past that, but he has built a window of a year into his planning, given that the state's act is new and his will be one of the first projects to take advantage of it.

Of Buckman's project, Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain said, "It's the wave of the future. Businesses get that. We have people employed in solar and wind energy in Elgin. We don't have anybody employed in coal."

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mdanahey@tribpub.com

Chicago Tribune contributed.
Former Paramount Pictures CEO Sherry Lansing, photographed in New York City on April 28, is slated to headline a Union League Club event on Tuesday. (Thos Robinson / Getty Images for A+E Networks)

Former Paramount Pictures CEO Sherry Lansing said having a book written about her journey from the South Side to Hollywood was an "incredibly torturous experience," but she has come to embrace Stephen Galloway's "Leading Lady."

"I would meet with Stephen and he would ask me questions and I was wondering why he was asking me this question or what was that question about," Lansing told the Tribune by phone. "And I would become very anxious about what this book was going to be like. And that was kind of the rhythm of the last four years. I lived in a constant state of anxiety. But when I read the book, I can't tell you I like everything in it because I certainly don't, but unfortunately what I don't like about it is actually all true."

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Lansing is set to return to her hometown to chat about the book with her friend, former Playboy Enterprises CEO Christie Hefner, Tuesday at the Union League Club. General admission tickets were sold out as of Monday morning.

Lansing, 72, said she tried for two years to write her own memoir, but realized she's the "worst writer in the entire world." She agreed to be interviewed by Galloway, executive features editor at The Hollywood Reporter, though she said she had no editorial control over his book.

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Published in April after hundreds of interviews, "Leading Lady" covers Lansing's South Side upbringing, her time as an executive at 20th Century Fox and Paramount Pictures and her relationships with stars including Tom Cruise, Angelina Jolie and Mel Gibson.

In the book, Lansing gushes about attending the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, but said she witnessed anti-Semitism as a student at Northwestern University.

"I think it's a fantastic school, and I'm friendly with the president, but at the time that I was going it was different," Lansing told the Tribune. "But (Galloway) didn't bother -- because it's not a book about Northwestern -- to say that it had evolved, it had a Jewish president and certainly it's anything but anti-Semitic now. It's a very diverse campus and I'm giving my archives to Northwestern."

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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)
As if it wasn't bad enough that Iggy Rodriguez is a terrible speller, the Chicago consulting firm CEO was also called a "gossip queen" and the "lamest dude in the house" for tattling on another contestant on Monday's episode of "The Bachelorette."

"Him telling on Josiah, just like, come on bro. Why do you keep going to Rachel talking about another man? Even if she asks you the question, it's not your responsibility to give her details on what's what. Let her figure that out," said fitness enthusiast Eric Bigger, who hails from Baltimore.

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Rodriguez told Texas attorney Rachel Lindsay that he questions Florida attorney Josiah Graham's intentions because when Lindsay is around, "he does this thing that sort of covers up his own insecurities. He covers them up with this false sense of bravado."

Rodriguez then told Graham that he spoke to Lindsay about him.

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"With all due respect, Iggy's a (expletive). Every time he talks to Rachel, instead of focusing on his lame self, his wack self ... I'm not even trying to be funny. I'm surprised he's still in the house. It's the lamest dude in the house," Graham said.

The comments came after Graham won the group's spelling bee challenge. Rodriguez, who attended the University of Redlands in California, was eliminated in the second round after spelling "boudoir" like Bordeaux wine.

A Bachelor Nation Spelling Bee? This could spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R for some of these guys. #TheBachelorette pic.twitter.com/FshYB71Cl2  The Bachelorette (@BacheloretteABC) June 16, 2017

Chicago education software manager Anthony Battle, who attended Northwestern University, made it to the top 3 in the spelling bee before misspelling "boutonniere."

Rodriguez and Battle are the only two Chicagoans who remain in the ABC network competition. Groupon senior inventory analyst Kenneth "Diggy" Moreland failed to receive a rose during the rose ceremony on Monday's episode and was sent home.

"Rachel was somebody that even though I didn't get the chance to know her that well, I can tell she was an amazing woman. I don't think it's really hit home yet. You know, obviously there's tears. I'm crying because I'm going to miss seeing Rachel, talking to Rachel," Moreland said.

"I definitely wish I would have had more time with Rachel, it would have helped her to realize that, 'I need to keep Diggy around and he's an awesome guy,' but at the end of the day, I hope she gets what she's looking for, that's all that really matters."

Fifteen suitors remain on Season 13 of "The Bachelorette," which airs at 7 p.m. Mondays. Next week the series is also scheduled to air on Tuesday.

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Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 126 Woody introduces the gang to a homemade spork toy with self-esteem issues in "Toy Story 4." Read the review. (Pixar / AP)
Machine Gun Kelly arrives at the Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 21. (Richard Shotwell / Invision)

Machine Gun Kelly details some of the troubles he recently faced on a Chicago movie set -- including being punched in the chest for multiple takes -- in a new interview with Rolling Stone magazine.

The actor-rapper, who was born Colson Baker and raised in Ohio, said an actor playing a cop repeatedly punched him in the chest for a scene in Rupert Wyatt's upcoming sci-fi thriller "Captive State." Machine Gun Kelly said he complained and was told to suck it up.

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"As Colson Baker, I took that loss on the chin," he told Rolling Stone. "But, like, dude: Machine Gun probably would've whupped his (expletive) (expletive)."

The 27-year-old MC collapsed backstage at an April show, which he attributed to a "pretty intense chest injury" from the filming. He postponed some tour dates, but is still scheduled to perform at Lollapalooza Aug. 6.

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John Goodman and Vera Farmiga star in "Captive State," which was filmed in Chicago for about two months this year and is due out Aug. 17, 2018. Reps for the film's production did not respond to a Tribune request for comment.

Machine Gun Kelly also told Rolling Stone a driver on the "Captive State" set claimed the actor-rapper threatened his life.

He said one of the film's authority figures came to his trailer and asked if he was "here to make this movie."

"And I was like, 'Dude, my song is No. 1, and I'm in a trailer at 5:00 in the morning, on time, at work in the middle of winter in Chicago. Of course I want to make this (expletive) movie,'" he said.

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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)
In Nebraska, nearly all the state's most heralded literary figures  Willa Cather, John Neihardt and more  begrudged what they saw, in the words of author Mari Sandoz, as the "intellectual and cultural dictatorship they foisted upon us the day the first malcontent crossed the Alleghenies." The complaints boil down to a simple question: What makes literature out here any less important than back there?

The lay reader may be surprised to find there are tangible roots to the denigration of Midwestern literary and historical regionalism, and Jon K. Lauck, founder of the Midwestern History Association, has dutifully mapped them out in his new book, "From Warm Center to Ragged Edge: The Erosion of Midwestern Literary and Historical Regionalism, 1920-1965."As the country reawakens following the recent presidential election to this so-called forgotten territory between the coasts, Lauck's final plea for "a bit more fire in the regionalist belly," couldn't be better timed.

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The Midwest had lost its claim as the nation's moral center by the 1930s. Following the release of several now-canonical works  including Sinclair Lewis' "Main Street" and Sherwood Anderson's "Winesburg, Ohio"  critic Carl Van Doren published an essay in The Nation positing what came to be known as "The Revolt from the Village" thesis. Van Doren praised these writers for speaking truth to the "cult of the village" and exposing the hinterland's "abundant feast of scandal." Though all of these authors would later reject his argument, Van Doren's thesis  bolstered by megaphone intellectuals like H.L. Mencken  persisted. Nevermind that it ignored writers like Hamlin Garland, whose work reflected a more sanguine or simply less rebellious relationship to the region.

"In addition to leaving a residue of disdain behind that continues to obscure the view of the rural Midwest," Lauck writes, "privileging the cultural rebels and expatriates compels a privileging of urbanism and rural dislocation and a discounting of regional attachments."

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Lauck focuses the second half of his book on the fading study of Midwestern history, and though similarly well researched, it bears a more insider feel, trudging through the rise and fall of various Midwestern historical associations to reflect the field's shifting attitudes. Without the cameos of popular figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald, the text decelerates in these last chapters but never quite stalls.

Though Lauck hasn't written a polemical text  he also serves as a senior adviser to U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D.  a conservative point of view seems to inform "From Warm Center to Ragged Edge." In examining Van Doren's village revolt thesis, Lauck unfortunately spends little time questioning the merit of the original argument. Defending "Main Street," Lewis said: "If I didn't love Main Street why would I write of it so hotly?" Certainly Lauck could have acknowledged some of the unfortunate truths that inspired "Main Street" and other works without contradicting himself. Brain drain was  and is  a serious issue in rural states; it is partially that limited marketplace of ideas that inspired the so-called village revolt. And while Lauck argues that a new Midwestern history must make room for previously ignored voices, notably African-Americans and Latinos, he makes no similar mention of women or refugees or the LGBTQ community.

Nevertheless, "From Warm Center to Ragged Edge" offers a compelling analysis of a region that has been disparaged by coastal culture. It's a stirring argument for a second wave of both Midwestern literary and historical regionalism. In the words of the great Kansas-born poet William Stafford, "It is good to welcome any region you live in or come to or think of, for that is where life happens to be  right where you are."

Carson Vaughan is a Nebraska-based freelancer.

'From Warm Center to Ragged Edge'

By Jon K. Lauck, University of Iowa Press, 266 pages, $27.50






The upside of writing a breakout debut novel, of course, is becoming a best-seller and a literary household name; the downside, at least for many authors, is being put in the unenviably stressful position of having an eagerly awaited second one. When a work of literature bursts onto the scene in a tidal wave of success, the attendant enthusiasm can create expectations that seem destined to drown any subsequent effort, particularly if the sophomore follow-up is a long time coming.

In 1997, Arundhati Roy's debut novel "The God of Small Things" rocketed her to global fame, selling millions of copies, making her the first Indian woman ever to win the Booker Prize and giving her a platform from which to criticize injustice in her native country. Twenty years later, she has released her second novel, the large and labyrinthine "The Ministry of Utmost Happiness."

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To be clear, Roy has been far from silent these past two decades, regularly publishing collections of essays, investigative journalism and political commentary, including "The End of Imagination" and "Capitalism: A Ghost Story."

Dedicated to "The Unconsoled" (and seemingly committed to the representation of everyone to whom such a label could conceivably apply), her return to fiction has a shaggy structure and polemical bent that might confuse and disappoint some readers. Yet its keen characterizations, ardent conscience and brilliant writing on a sentence level make the years this tale has taken to arrive somewhat understandable.

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The opening single-page vignette alone  about the unintended poisoning of white-backed vultures as a side effect of the widespread use of diclofenac, aka "cow aspirin," to accommodate India's increasingly dairy-hungry palate  is worth the price of the book. "Not many noticed the passing of the friendly old birds," she notes in this passage's wise and ironic final sentences. "There was so much else to look forward to." For better and for worse, the ensuing 400-plus pages show flashes of the same profundity  scathing yet beautiful and rich with metaphorical resonance  while also unfurling into an excessively digressive slog that threatens to bog down.

Weaving between Roy's main characters who move on the peripheries of society, the novel has the feel of a yarn  larger than life, raveling and unraveling  as it tells the stories of the transgender woman, Anjum, who takes up residence in a cemetery in Delhi, and Tilo, trained as an architect, who travels to the disputed Kashmir region to see her on-again, off-again and ultimately doomed lover Musa, a freedom fighter.

Roy's observations unspool as vivid and gimlet whether she is describing personal catastrophes or national disasters. "She looked like an understudy for the bride, temporarily standing in while the real one got dressed. Desolate I think is the word I'd use," she writes of Tilo at her wedding to a man called Naga. She writes of the division of British India in 1947: "Then came Partition. God's carotid burst open on the new border between India and Pakistan and a million people died of hatred." Yet as a whole, the book grows so woolly that such strands of poetic discernment get choked out amid other teeming details.

The ferocity of Roy's anger at what governments do (and fail to do) and her fervid desire to hold people accountable are admirable, as when she writes of New Delhi that "the summer of the city's resurrection had also been the summer of scams  coal scams, iron-ore scams, housing scams, insurance scams, stamp-paper scams, phone-license scams, land scams, dam scams, irrigation scams" and on and on. But her myriad minor characters and political discursions (on Kashmiri separatism, on the riots in Gujarat, on Hindu nationalism, on the Bhopal gas tragedy, etc.) cause the narrative threads to slip from her hands, leading to a bewildering lack of momentum and focus.

Consequently, the book has a strong start and a stirring conclusion  humane and impassioned back in the cemetery where "the battered angels ... held open the doors between worlds (illegally, just a crack)"  but the middle renders it difficult to get from one to the other.

Yet even with its many flaws and frustrations, "The Ministry of Utmost Happiness" is a grand if perplexing achievement: an ambitious story with a profound moral integrity and a deep emotional impact. Roy sets her aims incredibly high, and even when she misses the mark, she has written the kind of monumental and messy book that the monumental and messy world is perennially in need of.

Roy will appear at 7 p.m. Friday at a Chicago Humanities Festival event in Parker School, 2233 N. Clark St. For details, visit www.chicagohumanities.org.

Kathleen Rooney is the author, most recently, of the novel "Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk."

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'The Ministry of Utmost Happiness'

By Arundhati Roy, Knopf, 464 pages, $28.95






It's been six years since the late, long-serving Ald. Bernie Stone lost his 50th Ward seat to Debra Silverstein in a bitter fight.

But don't let Silverstein's gesture of pushing to name a revamped Far North Side park in Stone's honor fool you. There doesn't seem to be too much love lost between Silverstein and the Stone clan.

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The colorful Stone, who died in 2014, held the ward for the better part of four decades before he lost a 2011 runoff to Silverstein, whom he had memorably dismissed as "nothing but a housewife."

Silverstein last week presented the decision to rename the park to honor Stone as a magnanimous move, saying she was "not a person who lives in the past."

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Stone's daughter and longtime assistant, Ilana Feketitsch, might not be ready to sing kumbaya, however.

"This is something I've been fighting for for two years," Feketitsch told Chicago Inc. about the park plans. "I had to ask another alderman to intervene for me."

Silverstein disputed that. "She didn't push with me," Silverstein countered, incredulously.

But Feketitsch said she remains so upset by the "nastiness" of Silverstein's campaign that she has quit politics and moved to Arizona.

"I was shocked at the dishonesty and meanness of some people," Feketitsch said. "The way they'd just dig their claws into you."

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"I can't stand politics any more."

Optimistic 50th Ward residents may find hope in the fact that Silverstein has invited Feketitsch to what may prove an awkward unveiling ceremony for the park later this summer, and that Feketitsch plans to attend.

"She's been OK and she did invite me," Feketitsch said of Silverstein. "She never answered me when I wrote to her, but it's being done, and I'm happy.

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Silverstein agreed with that last part, at least.

"I'm sure she's very happy," Silverstein said.

kjanssen@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @kimjnews
A crew from Inspired Artisans installed the altar at the newly renovated chapel at Presence Resurrection Medical Center in Norwood Park on June 14, 2017. The chapel was destroyed in a December 2014 fire, and many pieces, including the marble altarpiece, were restored and reused. (Michael Tercha / Chicago Tribune) (Michael Tercha / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

When an extra alarm fire broke out at Chicago's Presence Resurrection Medical Center in December 2014, clergy prayed for the two firefighters hurt in the blaze and the 230 patients who remained safe.

But they grieved for the loss of the chapel that had become a destination for personnel, patients and the surrounding Norwood Park community on the Northwest Side since the hospital opened in 1953.

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The altar where priests had celebrated Mass thousands of times had been consumed in the inferno, and the stained glass images of Christ's Resurrection had been smashed by firefighters trying to reach the flames in the cathedral ceiling.

"When this happened it was like having the rug pulled out from under us," said Sister Hedwig Kuczynski, a member of the Sisters of the Resurrection and a chaplain with the hospital's department of spiritual care. "We were devastated."

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On Tuesday, a new altar made with marble from the old chapel was blessed and dedicated  and the restored chapel opened for worship, prayer and reflection again. A community Mass will be said at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

"Now we're rejoicing," Kuczynski said. "I feel like it's a resurrection for the chapel and for the whole community, because many people felt that it was an important part of their life."

Many employees, who relied on the chapel as a respite from their stressful jobs, were dismayed that the $3 million renovation took more than two years to complete. A conference room served as a makeshift chapel during the rehab.

Dougal Hewitt, chief mission officer for Presence Health, said because the chapel had become as much of a destination for neighbors outside the hospital as it had for people within, it was important to invite the community into the process of planning a new and improved place to worship.

"It was important as we redesigned that space to meet with stakeholders, including the community that had a tradition of worshiping there," Hewitt said. "While the structure is physically the same, the interior has been transformed by their vision."

Though Immaculate Conception Parish is right down the street at 7211 W. Talcott Ave., many of its parishioners rely on the daily Mass schedule and 24/7 convenience of the hospital space.

Neighborhood residents' "parents probably came here as patients and maybe grandparents," said the Rev. Kevin Fane, a Dominican priest who says Mass there. "It has special significance for them because they've been in and out of the building through the course of their lives."

Kuczynski compared the features of the restored chapel to a bride on her wedding day: It has something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.

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The original crucifix, bookstands and a statue of Christ all have been restored and returned. The choir loft has been transformed into a new interfaith prayer room. Marble from the previous chapel has been borrowed to use in the altar, and shards of the shattered stained glass will be repurposed elsewhere in the hospital.

Meanwhile, the ceiling above the entire worship space is now a celestial scene of stars in a sea of blue.

Kuczynski said new stained glass windows will be installed in several months, featuring images of healing from the Old and New Testaments, chosen by hospital personnel.

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"They're not only physical healing stories, but also the other healings people may need in their lives," Kuczynski said. "The windows are not necessarily the healing of the body, but the mind and the soul, or whatever else may be ailing a person at that time in their life."

Dorothy Ellsworth lives about 3 miles from the hospital and started spending a lot of time at the chapel when her husband suffered a stroke more than 20 years ago. Even after he died, she continued to attend daily Mass there and volunteers as a Eucharistic minister.

"It's part of me," she said, adding that she also volunteers at nursing homes for her parish. "The way I feel about it is I'm giving back."

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Judy Flynn, 79, said while she remains a member of her childhood parish in the Old Town neighborhood, the hospital chapel has become her central place of worship since she retired from teaching. Its weekday Mass at noon allows her to sleep late but still get a spiritual boost each day. When she became a caretaker for her older sister who lived nearby, that lift became especially important and convenient. In fact, a hospital chaplain offered to meet with her when her sister entered hospice.

"I was so entrenched with going to mass at the hospital I said that wouldn't be necessary," she said. "I really was getting a lot of support out of that."

mbrachear@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @TribSeeker
Mo Cahill, owner of the urban farm Moah's Ark, has raised chickens for over four years in the Rogers Park neighborhood. Though many in the neighborhood have responded positively to her operation, due to noise complaints from several other neighbors, Mo had to face a judge on June 13, 2017 for an appeal of a ticket. (Alyssa Pointer/ Chicago Tribune) (Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

Accompanied by her "director of security," a Victorian bulldog called Biff, Mo Cahill opened the back door of a baby-blue truck she keeps in her backyard as a makeshift chicken coop.

Out streamed galline citizens of Moah's Ark, a small urban farm on the 1800 block of West Touhy Avenue in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood. Cahill, 62, has about two dozen chickens and three roosters, who mostly live in the 1993 Chevy suburban or a smaller coop on a plot she owns two lots over.

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One chicken, which Cahill said resembled a queen, was named Cleo. Others, like Fat Tony, Elena and Sonia, are named after Supreme Court justices. The fowl drink from a tire converted into a water bowl.

"I ate my beloved Whitey Bulger," Cahill said later, when asked whether she will consume named chickens. "I love them, but they're still chickens. This whole thing is still about food."

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Cahill, who has white-silver hair and wore overalls while tending to her birds, sometimes jokingly refers to herself as a "crazy chicken lady." She says it in good humor, but some of her neighbors aren't amused by the farm.

Moah's Ark has drawn criticism from the city and other community members. Neighbors have complained about chickens running wild, and the city once served her with more than two dozen property violations, including allegations that the farm has drawn rats, which she disputed.

But the issue that "really gets people's blood boiling is the roosters" and their crowing, said Ald. Joe Moore, 49th.

"The peace and quiet the neighbors should be entitled to, particularly in the evening hours, should be respected," Moore said.

Cahill has lived on Touhy for 30 years, she said, and spent much of her life as a full-time mom. She has five children and got divorced for a second time in 2015.

At one point, Cahill wanted to be a doctor to make her father happy. She's worked in labs, as a carpenter and as an artist, she said. Cahill said she identifies as a "staunch feminist" and is highly engaged in politics.

"I can walk into a room with 10 strangers and walk out with seven new best friends, two (people) scratching their heads and saying 'What the (expletive),' and one person will go home to sharpen their knives," Cahill said.

About five years ago, Cahill bought a vacant property on her block to grow tomatoes and plant apple trees. She didn't plan to start a farm but she began learning about urban agriculture and, "having always been a sucker for a great idea, off I went."

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At Moah's Ark, Cahill has planted berries, heirloom tomatoes, "weapons-grade hot peppers" and over a dozen fruit trees, she said. Most of the chickens stay in her backyard coop while the plants grow on the once-vacant lot.

On her farm, Cahill employs somewhat obscure agriculture techniques, including hugelkultur, a soil building technique she said "basically uses landscape waste to build soil." As part of that, Cahill has buried numerous mature trees on the property that were chopped up into pieces and put together like a compost pile.

Those have drawn criticism too, from people who thought she was dumping waste. In the countryside, agriculture is a way of life, but urbanites who bring farms into the city run into tensions from people who sometimes dismiss them as quirky or worse.

Moore said he supports urban agriculture but draws a line at roosters in the city.

"She can have a farm. Raise her vegetables. Maintain her chickens," Moore said. "But try to be a little bit more of a good neighbor and recognize she's not in the middle of Iowa. She's in the middle of Rogers Park in Chicago."

Cahill said she has "a huge number of fans" and "a few enemies."

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"That's the song most urban farmers will sing," she said.

The problems took a new turn in March 2016, when a neighbor called 911 out of what she called "desperation," a transcript of a subsequent court hearing shows. Three police officers responded and gave Cahill citations for excessive noise and keeping loose chickens.

At a June 2016 administrative hearing on the tickets, one neighbor testified that she called Animal Care and Control because the rooster "was crowing all night long (and) we were being woken up all night long." The noise would start early in the day, a different neighbor said, "and we could hear them in our homes with windows closed."

A judge ruled against Cahill at that hearing and upheld the tickets, costing her $450 in fines.

But Cahill decided to fight what her lawyer called the "rooster case" decision and appealed. This week, she appeared in a downtown courtroom and a judge tossed the loose chickens violation but upheld the excessive noise complaint. Cahill said the split decision is "better than nothing."

Cahill said she's surprised by the clamor her farm has raised.

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"I feel like I'm ringing a primal bell for some people," Cahill said.

Over the years, Cahill said she's tried to address the neighbors' complaints. She said she's added soundproofing, moved the coop farther from the alley to lessen noise traveling, and changed the birds' breeding and hatching schedule so it happens before most people start opening their windows.

But some of the complaints she's received, Cahill said, are overblown or untrue, like the rats complaint. In a Facebook post, Cahill said someone complained that her front-end loader used for picking up heavy things "ran all day, every day."

"How can I prove this is false? Because it has spent more time broken down than running," she wrote. "Last year, it spent almost the entire year in the shop."

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When she started out, Cahill said, she "never would've guessed" how many enemies the farm would make. She said she's been "disappointed" in Moore, her alderman; she said he could've been more supportive.

Moore said he's tried to mediate but found Cahill defensive and unwilling to address some of the concerns. Recently, though, Moore said he hasn't heard complaints.

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"In my line of work, no news is good news," Moore said.

After the hearing, Cahill went home, turned on the sprinklers and fed the chickens. She said she cracked open "a cold one" and settled down for her nightly politics fix with "the folks" at MSNBC.

"I'm a lucky woman," Cahill said. "I have been able to pursue a lot of dreams and this is a great one for my old age."

gpratt@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @royalpratt
Melodie Gliniewicz leaves Lake County Jail after posting bond in January 2016. The widow of Fox Lake Lt. Charles Joseph Gliniewicz was indicted on charges of money laundering and misuse of charitable funds. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)

Prosecutors said Monday they will go to a higher court to try again for permission use emails and texts between Melodie Gliniewicz and her late husband as evidence at her upcoming money laundering trial.

The appeal could take months to hear, meaning a delay in the start of Gliniewicz's trial in Lake County, which had been scheduled for July.

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Gliniewicz's husband, Fox Lake police Lt. Joe Gliniewicz, was fatally shot in 2015 and was widely lauded as a hero cut down in the line of duty. Then investigators determined his death was a suicide staged to look like homicide  all, authorities said, to cover up his theft of funds from the village's Police Explorer youth policing program he ran for many years.

Authorities later charged his widow with money laundering, misuse of charitable funds and conspiracy, saying she knew of and participated in her husband's alleged scheme.

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But in a blow to prosecutors, Lake County Judge James Booras ruled in May that the state cannot submit potentially damaging emails and texts that Melodie Gliniewicz, 52, exchanged with her husband before his death.

The judge cited so-called marital privilege laws that protect people from being compelled to incriminate their spouses in a court or law.

Prosecutors argue that while such protections might keep someone from having to testify against a spouse, they don't cover communication between spouses outside of court.

But at a hearing Monday, Booras denied a motion to reconsider his earlier ruling, saying the marital privilege "protects disclosure of any kind." Prosecutors will now make their counter argument in front of the 2nd District Appellate Court.

Authorities allege that the Gliniewiczes used Explorer funds for personal expenses including a trip to Hawaii, meals at restaurants and visits to the local movie theater.

Her lawyers contend that the couple sometimes borrowed from the fund to make ends meets but paid the money back. They also have said that she was unaware of some of the things her husband was spending the money on, such as online pornography.

Susan Berger is a freelance reporter.
Teenager Cathy Rainbolt told a judge her foster father hit her in the face when she failed to mow the lawn correctly. She got hit in the face when she argued. She got hit and dragged by the hair when she tried to get away.

Her foster father was James "Tom" Hodgkinson, who is now infamous after shooting U.S. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, two police officers and a staffer on a Virginia ballfield Wednesday. Rainbolt told the judge that Hodgkinson drank every day.

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"I didn't mark a time when (Hodgkinson) started hitting me," Rainbolt told St. Clair County Circuit Judge James Radcliffe during a hearing Nov. 21, 2006. "It's been hard to live with (an alcoholic) and how (he) treated me," Rainbolt said.

Cathy Rainbolt was abused almost from birth to her death, including physical abuse from James "Tom" Hodgkinson, the congressional shooter killed by police. Cathy lived in the Hodgkinson house near Belleville, IL, as a foster child. (Handout)

The transcript of the hearing was unsealed, along with the rest of Rainbolt's juvenile file, after a request by the Belleville News-Democrat was granted by Circuit Judge Jan Fiss on Friday afternoon. Rainbolt died in 2015 of a drug overdose after a life "mixed with human suffering and laughter," her obit read.

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Hodgkinson was killed Wednesday by police to halt his shooting spree. Sue Hodgkinson has been under police protection and could not be reached Friday. She granted an interview Thursday and then asked the media to leave her alone. Rainbolt was asked at the hearing whether she had been abused in any other way.

"There was no sexual abuse or anything like that. It was emotional and verbal abuse," she answered.

Illinois Department of Childen and Family Services spokeswoman Veronica Resa confirmed the Hodgkinsons were foster parents from 1990 to 2003. She declined to answer further questions, citing privacy laws.

Rachele Putnam, Rainbolt's biological mother, lost custody of her and her two sisters in 1995 when Cathy was 6. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services placed Cathy in Don Bosco Children's Home in Belleville after determining her mother's boyfriend sexually abused her 9- and 8-year-old sisters.

DCFS also found that Cathy's biological father, Michael Putnam, sexually abused the girls, as well as their paternal grandfather. Cathy was placed in a foster home, attended counseling and made monthly visits to her father in prison.

Around 2002, the 13-year-old went to live with the Hodgkinsons. She took their last name and became Cathy Hodgkinson. The Hodgkinsons opted not to adopt Cathy, but instead chose a "subsidized guardianship" for their grand-niece.

Every year they would file annual reports to the court, noting expenses made for Cathy such as $112.65 for her surprise 16th birthday party or $105 for the Apple iPod she received as a birthday present or the $104 for a backpack and school supplies.

Cathy found a friend, who lived next door to the Hodgkinsons -- Janae Rainbolt. At Janae's home Cathy found a refuge and a family.

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"Well, I went to the Hodgkinsons' as soon as they were my foster family. (Janae Rainbolt) and I became best friends, inseparable, we did everything together, homework and everything and I grew up with her. I spent every single day at her house in the summer. We camped outside. And (went) out to eat and shopping," Rainbolt told the judge.

On April 1, 2006, James Hodgkinson forced his way into his neighbor's home, according to a police report. "Once inside the residence, James started screaming for (Cathy)," the report stated.

He told her it was time to come home, but Cathy wanted to stay. She went upstairs and locked herself in a bedroom. Hodgkinson followed her up, cursing and shouting, the report stated. Cathy hid next to the bed on the floor.

(Chicago Tribune Graphics)

Hodgkinson again demanded Cathy return home. She said no.

"James grabbed (Cathy) by the hair and pulled her off the floor. After Cathy was off the floor, she attempted to run away. James would not release his grip and threw Cathy to the floor," the report stated.

One of the girls' friends, Aimee Moreland, 19, heard screaming and saw Hodgkinson throwing Cathy around the bedroom. She told police he was hitting Cathy, pulling her hair and grabbing her.

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The two girls fled to Moreland's car and tried to leave, but Hodgkinson pulled open the passenger side door and tried to pull Cathy out, the report said. He reached over and pulled the keys out of the ignition, pulled out a knife and cut the seatbelt.

Sue Hodgkinson came to the car and began fighting with Cathy, hitting her and pulling her hair and trying to pull her out of Moreland's car. She finally gave up and said "I'll just call the police and put you back into foster care," the report stated. It was then that James Hodgkinson began grabbing Cathy again, choking her, tearing her Belleville West sweatshirt. Moreland tried to intervene and was hit in the face.

Joel Fernandez, Moreland's 19-year-old boyfriend, went to confront the Hodgkinsons and told police he was met by James Hodgkinson pointing a 12-gauge shotgun in his face. He told police a shot was fired as he ran away. Police investigating the case found a spent shotgun shell near Hodgkinson's front porch.

Hodgkinson was charged with battery, but the case was dropped when witnesses did not appear. That was the last day Cathy stayed with the Hodgkinsons.

Cathy's adopted sister, Julie Simpson, picked her up from the sheriff's department that night. She went to a foster home in Cahokia soon after.

Julie Simpson and the Hodgkinsons were featured in a foster family newsletter in 2004. Julie Simpson described the Hodgkinsons as a loving family that calmed a nervous 13-year-old who broke dishes and how James Hodgkinson left the hospital to attend her wedding and then adopted her when she was 24 so she'd always have a family.

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But Cathy's placement in Cahokia didn't work out. Cathy was only allowed to eat after the family was finished. There were cockroaches in the cereal. Her foster father "tickled" her and commented on her figure.

And soon, Cathy was back at Janae Rainbolt's house with her mother, Nicki Stieren, agreeing to be Cathy's guardian, according to the court records.

Cathy asked Judge Radcliffe to change her name from Hodgkinson to Rainbolt.

"You guys want to be sisters, in other words. You guys want to have the same last name," Radcliffe asked. Cathy said "yes" and became Cathy Rainbolt.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 38 An investigator walks to the home of James Hodgkinson on June 14, 2017 in Belleville, Ill. (Steve Matzker / Chicago Tribune)

Tension remained between the neighbors. Nicki Stieren called the police to report Hodgkinson ran over her dog, which was sleeping in the driveway six weeks after Hodgkinson tried to pull Cathy out of her house.

Less than four weeks later, the Hodgkinsons filed their final report as Cathy's guardians. It was the day after Christmas 2006 and the day before Cathy's 17th birthday.

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In that report, they detailed the expenses incurred on her behalf, including legal fees, intermediate foster care, damage done to the front lawn and $300 to repair a hole kicked in her bedroom wall.

" ... in addition to the lost work time we incurred for counseling, court dates, incarcerations and medical expenses for the stress the rest of the family was put through while (the girl) manipulated her way through the system," James and Suzanne Hodgkinson wrote.

Stieren taught Cathy to drive, bought her a car, but Stieren said in Cathy's obit that the two never formed a mother-daughter bond. Cathy Rainbolt was emancipated when she was 18. She didn't want to follow the rules and keep up with chores at the Stieren house.

"All I can say is that I have tried and will keep being a source of moral support for this daughter of mine. It feels like failure but maybe someday she will understand," Nicki Stieren wrote in a letter to the judge.

As an adult, Cathy Rainbolt developed a drug problem, according to her obituary. She had a son. In 2011, she once again fell prey to a sexual attack at the hands of her biological father, who was sentenced to five years on criminal sexual abuse charges. On July 26, 2015, Cathy Rainbolt died of a heroin overdose. She was 26.

"Foster care is supposed to be foster parenting," Nicki Stieren wrote in Cathy's obituary. "Parenting is supporting the physical, emotional, social, financial and intellectual development of a child from infancy to adulthood. Foster care is not supposed to be belittling. The child is not supposed to be your free worker bee."

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Cathy was the first of two Hodgkinson foster children to die young. In 1996, 17-year-old Wanda Ashley Stock, who had been living with the Hodgkinsons in Belleville for just three months, drove to a lonely rural road, doused herself with gasoline and set herself on fire.

St. Clair County Deputy Coroner Danny Haskenhoff said he will never never forget seeing smoke on the horizon over Mine Haul Road not far from Smithton.

Wanda "Ashley" Stock immolated herself in 1996 after her boyfriend broke up with her. She was in the foster care of congressional shooter James "Tom" Hodgkinson and his wife.

Haskenhoff said that when he arrived, the car Stock drove was surrounded by firefighters and county deputies. Told there was a body in the car, he said at first he didn't believe it.

"I said, 'Oh, bullshit,'" and then I realized. "Ah, there's a body in the car."

"It was determined to be a suicide and we typically don't autopsy suicide," Haskenhoff said. A police report could not be located Friday.

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At the time, Suzanne Hodgkinson said the teenager's death was a complete surprise. Hodgkinson passed her foster daughter in the car and was quoted by a News-Democrat reporter as saying, "She didn't pull out of the driveway in a frenzy. She drove at a normal pace. There was no indication that there was anything wrong."

Haskenhoff said one odd detail he recalled is that two gas cans were found some distance back from the section of road where the flaming car was found.

According to the BND news article, Stock left a note with instructions to leave whatever valuables she had to a friend. Her license place was "Jeff Ashe," a reference to her boyfriend, which police used to identify her and discover her home.

It was a break-up with that boyfriend that prompted the suicide, Sue Hodgkinson said in a News-Democrat story about suicide prevention. She encouraged other parents to keep a close eye on emotional children, who take things hard.

Nicki Stieren wrote an emotional ode in Cathy's obituary that was also a plea for other foster children.

"To all you children in foster care, seek out those good teachers and counselors at your school, find friends to encourage you and please find your passion. Don't waste your life and don't let Cathy's death be in vain. Chances are most everyone needs help. Go and get yours."

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A woman missing from the Montclare neighborhood has been found, police said Monday night.

Chicago police on Monday said they were attempting to locate Joanna Lopez, 28, who was missing from the 3000 block of North Natoma Avenue in the Montclare neighborhood. She has been found, police said in an updated missing person alert sent out a little after 9 p.m. Monday.
Portraits of the Orlando, Fla., nightclub shooting victims are carried at the beginning of the 47th annual Chicago Pride Parade on June 26, 2016, on Halsted Street. (Michael Tercha/Chicago Tribune )

Last year, Chicago's Pride Parade was mournful, coming just two weeks after the vicious mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Fla., where 49 people were killed. Before that, same-sex couples celebrated a Supreme Court ruling holding that they had a constitutional right to marry nationwide.

This year, gay pride celebrations across the country have been marked by frustration at the state of politics in Washington, particularly President Donald Trump's decision to rescind a key Obama directive that allowed transgender students to use the bathrooms and locker rooms of their choice.

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Some officials wonder whether this Sunday's parade in Chicago, themed "Viva la Vida/Stand Up, Stand Proud," will follow suit.

"Well, we have a new president," said Ald. Tom Tunney, whose 44th Ward is home to most of the parade and many of the events leading up to it. "It will be interesting to see how the public reacts in this new era."

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In Los Angeles, the city's decades-old pride parade was replaced with a "resist march," and U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., led chants to impeach the president.

"There are so many issues on the front burner right now, and I think you'll see that reflected," said Richard Pfeiffer, Chicago's Pride Parade coordinator. "Since the change in Washington in November, LGBT people and others have been marginalized verbally and in other ways. There's anger over that."

Pfeiffer said more than 250,000 people are expected along the parade route, and nearly 1 million could move in and out of the area surrounding the parade throughout the day.

As in the past, officers from the Chicago Police Department will be omnipresent along the parade route, which will begin at the corner of Montrose Avenue and Broadway in Uptown.

Officials said they will follow a security playbook similar to last year's, when hundreds of additional Chicago police officers were stationed throughout Pride Fest and at the Pride Parade following the Pulse Nightclub shooting. Rich Guidice, first deputy director for the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, said the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security will also play a role.

"There will be a visible presence of police on the scene," Guidice said. "Some you'll see and some you won't, but we have enough to ensure a safe event."

Tunney said police and security guards will be too numerous to count.

"The police presence will be similar to last year's. And last year's was extraordinary," Tunney said. "It's a big weekend. It's gone from 2,000 people at its beginning to more than a million. It's become a parade for everybody. And I think that shows how we have more in common than we have apart."

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Thousand Waves, a martial arts and self-defense center in the Lakeview neighborhood, was scheduled to host a self-defense workshop for members of the LGBT community on June 17, but it was canceled because of a lack of participants.

Ryan Libel, the center's executive director, said that is not necessarily bad news.

While self-defense workshops tend to teeter around 20 participants, Libel said bystander intervention classes have increased to more than 50. He believes more people want to stick up for minority communities.

"It's definitely a quantifiable demand," Libel said. "We've seen a really beautiful wave of support for underserved communities across the board. There is an increased appetite for standing with marginalized groups."

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 13 Gilbert Baker's original flag had eight stripes. As The New York Times reported in its obituary for Baker, who died March 31, each stripe had meaning: pink for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sun, green for nature, turquoise for magic, blue for peace and purple for spirit. Why a rainbow? Baker explained in a 2008 interview with the Independent, a British newspaper: "In 1978, when I thought of creating a flag for the gay movement there was no other international symbol for us than the pink triangle, which the Nazis used to identify homosexuals in concentration camps. Even though the pink triangle was and still is a powerful symbol, it was very much forced upon us. I almost instantly thought of using the rainbow. To me, it was the only thing that could really express our diversity, beauty and our joy. I was astounded nobody had thought of making a rainbow flag before because it seemed like such an obvious symbol for us." (Wikimedia Commons)

Recalling the battles for equality  and knowing that some continue  has been an enduring theme over the years during pride events. This year is no different.

On Wednesday at Daley Plaza, American Veterans for Equal Rights hosted a salute to LGBT veterans.

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"I was tired of seeing gay people kicked out of the military for no reason," said Jim Darby, 85, who started AVER's Chicago chapter 25 years ago.

"When I was in the military, gay people were disappearing and I didn't know where they were going, but I told myself that it couldn't be that bad. I didn't get concerned until I left. I felt guilty. I should have been kicked out."

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After leaving the military, where he served as a Russian translator during the Korean War, Darby was able to take advantage of the GI Bill. He graduated from college and taught languages for more than 30 years in Chicago Public Schools on the South Side.

Darby was arrested outside the White House while protesting "don't ask, don't tell" in 1993, and he and his partner of 54 years, Patrick Bova, were the lead plaintiffs in Lambda Legal's successful marriage equality lawsuit against the state of Illinois in 2014.

In 2011, "don't ask, don't tell"  a policy barring gays and lesbians from openly serving in the military  was lifted. And last year, the Pentagon ended the ban on transgender men and women serving openly in the military.

Darby said he was overwhelmed with how quickly things changed.

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"We've come so far," Darby said. "But I know we have some unkind politicians, and that's putting it mildly, and, at the end of the day, we still have a lot of work to do."

jsteinbauer@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @JamesSteinbauer
Police are seeking help from the public in locating a missing teenage boy with "high-risk behavioral issues," which makes him an endangered missing person.

Chicago police on Monday said they are attempting to locate Pablo Zaugg, 15, who is missing from the 3900 block of North Kostner Avenue in Old Irving Park.

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Authorities said Zaugg, who stands about 6 feet tall, weighs about 165 pounds and has blonde hair and hazel eyes.

Officials said Zaugg is known to frequent the 4500 block of North Winchester Avenue in Ravenswood and the 2300 block of West Sunnyside Avenue in Ravenswood, near Welles Park. He also is often seen in the 2800 block of West Nelson Street in the Avondale neighborhood, officials said.

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Anyone with information about his whereabouts should contact detectives at 312-744-8266.
Two girls, ages 7 and 13, were shot as schoolchildren celebrated the end of the school year at a picnic at Warren Elementary School in the Calumet Heights neighborhood on June 16, 2017. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune) (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

A 19-year-old man and two juveniles charged in a shooting at a Far South Side grade school playground thought they were targeting three students in the area who are gang members, prosecutors said.

Instead, two innocent bystanders  young girls enjoying an end-of-year school picnic early Friday afternoon  were shot and injured, authorities said.

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On Sunday, all three suspects were in court on charges related to the shooting at Warren Elementary School, 9239 S. Jeffery Ave. Each is charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and a misdemeanor charge of trespass to a vehicle.

Raekwon Hudson, of the 8900 block of South Philips Avenue and the oldest of the three suspects, appeared before Cook County Judge Peggy Chiampas, who called the shooting a "heinous incident."

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Wearing a torn green hoodie and a black T-shirt, Hudson appeared to wipe away tears before he approached the judge's bench at the Leighton Criminal Court Building.

"That young children in this city can't participate at a picnic at the end of school without being in fear of their lives because of gangbangers in the street  juvenile gangbangers as well  have access to guns ... no bail," Chiampas told the court.

Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 People pick up children after two girls were wounded by gunfire erupted near Warren Elementary School in Chicago on June 16, 2017. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

Prosecutors said a witness identified Hudson as a front-seat passenger flashing gang signs outside the window of a dark-colored Jeep just before the shooting, authorities said. Before it was over, at least 11 rounds were fired from the Jeep on South Jeffery Avenue.

Hudson's private attorney argued in court that Hudson was at home when the shooting occurred. While home, Hudson heard noise coming from his garage, went out to investigate and began wrestling with two teens who later would also be charged in the shooting. That's when police arrived, the attorney told the court.

All three fled the garage, but police arrested them a short time later.

Hudson had graduated high school and was planning to enlist in the Navy, according to his attorney.

Two 17-year-old boys also were charged in the Pill Hill neighborhood shooting and appeared in juvenile court Sunday. Both were ordered held in custody. Their names were not released because of their age.

The girls who were shot, 13 and 7, were on the playground at a celebratory picnic about 1:40 p.m. Friday when shots rang out from a vehicle. The 7-year-old suffered a gunshot wound to the right thigh and graze wounds to the right hand, while the older girl was shot in the right hand, prosecutors said. Both were taken to Comer Children's Hospital.

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Raekwon Hudson, 18, is charged in a shooting that injured two young girls at a grade-school picnic on the Far South Side. (Cook County sheriff's photo)

The three apparent targets of the shooting were standing near the Jeffery Avenue side of the school because they were not allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony at the time, according to prosecutors.

One of the boys left to go to a corner store and told his two friends when he returned that someone in a dark-colored Jeep flashed a gun at him, prosecutors said. The boys asked the security guard if they could cut through the school lot to get to the Chappel Avenue side of the school but were not allowed.

The boys walked down Jeffrey toward 92nd Street and again noticed the Jeep driving in the same area. They ran toward the playground area of the school when the vehicle turned in their direction.

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Several shots were fired from the back passenger side of the Jeep as it moved up the street. Children on the playground were "running for cover" as the gunfire erupted, prosecutors said.

A neighbor's surveillance video captured shots being fired by at least one person in the back passenger side and smoke coming from the vehicle, authorities said.

And police found 11 .40-caliber casings on the street. Authorities have not made clear who they think fired the shots.

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Prosecutors said the targets were identified by one of the Jeep's occupants as "ops," meaning members of an opposing gang.

Police spotted the Jeep in a garage in the 8900 block of South Philips as the garage door was closing. The trio allegedly ran through another door. But officers caught up to them, and they were arrested nearby. Hudson was found in possession of the Jeep's key fob, prosecutors said.

nmoreno@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @nereidamorenos
Monday marked a day of dueling congressional endorsements aimed at appealing to core party constituencies in the Democratic governor's contest, as J.B. Pritzker picked up the backing of Rep. Luis Gutierrez and Chris Kennedy got the support of Rep. Bobby Rush.

Beyond the appeals to Latino and African-American voters the endorsements represented, each congressman followed a theme central to the campaign of the candidate they endorsed.

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Gutierrez and his support of increasing legal immigration played into Pritzker's repeated attempts to try to link President Donald Trump to Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner.

Rush and his work on civil rights invoked the legacy of the Kennedy family as well as gun violence, an issue plaguing the black community.

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Speaking at a near Southwest Side church in Pilsen in English and Spanish, Gutierrez called Trump a "con artist, just like the governor of the state of Illinois."

"'Make America Great Again,' our president says. 'Make America Great Again?' An America in which women are in the kitchen, gay people are in the closet, black people are on the back of the bus and Latinos and immigrants were just silent and quiet? That's the America he wants to take us back to," said Gutierrez, a 24-year member of Congress.

"If we're going to be triumphant, you want to win, you want to beat Rauner, who is nothing but a sidekick of Trump," the congressman said. Later, Gutierrez, a member of the House Judiciary Committee, told reporters that the panel should begin impeachment proceedings against the president for obstruction of justice in the probe of alleged collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia in the 2016 election.

Pritzker said he was "proud" to accept the endorsement of Gutierrez, whom he called "one of the fiercest fighters of the nation ... to beat Donald Trump, to beat Bruce Rauner."

Rauner and Trump "have the same agenda and the same governing style: attack, blame, deny and divide," Pritzker said. "I'm running for governor to unite Illinois and to get things done for this state."

U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush announce his endorsement of Chris Kennedy's campaign for governor on June 19, 2017. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune) (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

In the South Side Chatham neighborhood, Kennedy accepted Rush's endorsement at a local restaurant, noting that in the congressman's tenure of 24 years, Rush served with Kennedy's late uncle Sen. Ted Kennedy, brother Rep. Joe Kennedy, cousin Rep. Patrick Kennedy, and nephew Rep. Joe Kennedy III.

"I know Chris Kennedy," Rush said. "I know the DNA that makes up a Kennedy. As he indicated, I served with four Kennedys in the Congress, and one thing you can say about all of them  they have the same character and they have the same consciousness. They believe and they work for those who are left out, those who are denied access to the American dream."

Rush said when Kennedy speaks about gun violence and "the problem of the pain of families that violence has visited upon (them), he doesn't just speak from talking points. He speaks from his own family experience." Chris Kennedy is the son of the late U.S. Sen. Robert Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, both of whom were slain by assassins.

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Kennedy is counting on a strong showing in the black community, given his family history on civil rights issues. But Kennedy also has disdained endorsements Pritzker has received from African-American aldermen, saying in the past that the contest "is not about politicians endorsing other politicians or what might be happening behind closed doors."

On Monday, Kennedy sought to differentiate Rush's backing as coming from a leader who "supports a candidate who will look after all of us" in contrast to "the insiders and the establishment that (has) the party leadership cramming down a choice on everybody else."

Rush also lashed out at some elements of the Democratic Party, though not by name, for trying to engineer an early endorsement of Pritzker, a billionaire entrepreneur and investor who has vowed to self-finance his campaign and go toe-to-toe with the wealthy Rauner.

"I will not be a party to, nor support, the shenanigans of the Democratic establishment here in Illinois. They want to package with ribbons (and) deliver a gift of the nomination to their choice," Rush said. "My message to them is that you can't gift-wrap the gubernatorial nomination because it's not yours to give. It belongs to the citizens of the ... state of Illinois."

Rush has had a history of being an outspoken critic of power. He defeated a young Barack Obama in 2000 to win re-election to Congress, endorsed an Obama rival for U.S. Senate in Illinois in 2004 and has never been close to the now former president.

But even as he disdained the Democratic establishment, Rush last year was aided by some of Mayor Rahm Emanuel's closest political backers in fending off a Democratic primary challenge to his re-election.

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Meanwhile, Rauner wasn't out in public Monday and canceled a scheduled appearance at an Illinois Republican Party fundraiser in Rosemont with the seven GOP members of the state's congressional delegation. The Rauner campaign said the governor was in Springfield ahead of the upcoming special session.

rap30@aol.com

Twitter @rap30
Two of Chicago's most well-known African-American and Latino politicians have called on Mayor Rahm Emanuel to agree to federal court oversight of police reform if he wants to clean up the embattled Chicago Police Department.

In separate interviews with the Chicago Tribune, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia said the only way for the city to ensure a real and lasting overhaul of a broken Police Department is for Emanuel to allow a federal judge to be in charge of the process.

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The mayor this month backed away from a written commitment he made in January with then-President Barack Obama's administration for Chicago to enter into a consent decree  an agreement that gives a federal judge and a court-appointed monitor the power to enforce reforms of the Police Department. Instead, Emanuel now is negotiating an out-of-court agreement with President Donald Trump's Justice Department, which has signaled a retreat from federal oversight of police reforms.

Criminal justice experts and former Justice Department officials have slammed Emanuel's about-face, and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has called on the mayor to keep his consent decree pledge and has not ruled out taking legal action herself.

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Preckwinkle and Garcia have joined a growing group of political leaders voicing concerns that the city may be backing away from ensuring true and lasting reform of the Police Department takes place.

"We need a consent decree, and we need some judicial power to make sure that it happens. There is skepticism for good reason. This has gone on for too long," said Garcia, who lost to Emanuel in the 2015 runoff election for mayor. "Some power brokers in decision-making positions are even reluctant to acknowledge that injustices have occurred. They're still in denial to this day that there's been torture, that there's been racism, that there's been excessive use of force when everyone in Chicago seems to know it, and the whole world seems to know it."

The push for police reform stems from the November 2015 release of the Laquan McDonald police shooting video, which showed white officer Jason Van Dyke shooting the black teenager 16 times. The official police narrative of the shooting and reports filed by five officers varied dramatically from what the video showed  McDonald walking away from police as he was shot.

Emanuel fought for more than a year not to release the video before a court ordered him to do so. The graphic footage led to weeks of street protests, calls for Emanuel's resignation, the firing of then-police Superintendent Garry McCarthy and the yearlong civil rights investigation that resulted in Emanuel's written agreement to seek a consent decree.

"There's a real credibility issue, and the Laquan McDonald case only highlighted it. What was the chant on that day (soon after the video release), the day after Thanksgiving? '16 shots, 400 days. 16 shots and a cover-up,'" Preckwinkle said. "I always believed that the police could shoot black and brown people with impunity. And I'm president of the county, and I believe that. So, what do people on the street believe? Probably the same as me, the same thing as I do."

Preckwinkle, who last week announced she will seek a third term as board president but not challenge Emanuel for mayor, said a consent decree is necessary to make sure real change happens.

"I don't have any confidence that it can be done without outside oversight," she said. "I believe we need court supervision."

For his part, Emanuel has insisted the city is well on its way to reform, pointing to changes in training, a new use-of-force policy, more body cameras and the rollout of more Tasers as examples. The mayor also has suggested that an out-of-court agreement with the Trump administration would lead to the same results on police reform as the oversight of a federal judge.

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Madigan, who held a private meeting with the mayor on the issue last week, has said it's "ludicrous" for City Hall to negotiate with a Trump Justice Department that "fundamentally does not agree with the need for constitutional policing."

Garcia agreed.

"It's very concerning to me he would negotiate with the Trump administration on this. It's simply a way of trying to minimize static and to deflect issues that will not go away," said Garcia, who has not ruled out running against Emanuel again. "Whether it's this year or after an election in 2019, these issues are still going to be here, and if we're going to have a resolution of those issues, we have to face the very stark facts of how injustice and abuse have occurred."

Emanuel agreed to a consent decree in January knowing Trump had been elected. At the time, the mayor said he "wouldn't have signed what I signed on behalf of our city if I didn't believe they (consent decrees) were right."

Last week, a host of civil rights organizations filed a federal lawsuit seeking to spur federal court oversight of sweeping changes in the Police Department, which the civil rights investigation found to have a pattern of excessive force and misconduct.

Neither Emanuel nor his top lawyer, Edward Siskel, has directly addressed questions about the suit's demands, instead saying that the administration is committed to reform. Emanuel and Siskel also have not said whether they would partner with community organizations to seek a consent decree as the lawsuit, reform advocates, Madigan  and now Preckwinkle and Garcia  have requested.

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Talks on Britain leaving the European Union began Monday with both sides saying they will focus first on an orderly withdrawal: a deal for citizens living in each other's territory, border arrangements between Ireland and the U.K. and the amount that Britain will pay to get out of previous EU commitments.

Both EU negotiator Michel Barnier and his British counterpart David Davis said after the first negotiating session they were confident of quick progress but said major challenges lay ahead to meet the deadline of March 2019 for Britain to officially leave the bloc.

"In the first step, we will deal with the most pressing issues. We must lift the uncertainty caused by Brexit," said Barnier. "In a second step, we will scope our future partnership."

From his comments, it appeared that the Brexit talks will largely follow the EU's conditions and will center on the two sides' new relationship only once sufficient progress has been made on the withdrawal issues.

Davis was heartened by the spirit of the talks, during which the negotiators, both interested in mountaineering, exchanged a walking stick and a hiking book.

Barnier said there will be one week of negotiations every month and the two sides will use the time in between to work out proposals. Both sides will put top advisers to work immediately on a border agreement between Ireland and the United Kingdom, aiming to make sure the Irish peace agreement and the common travel area should as unaffected by Britain's EU departure as possible.

While the EU negotiating team led by Barnier has been ready for months, British efforts on Brexit stalled even after it triggered the two-year process on March 29. An early election this month, in which British Prime Minister Theresa May lost her Conservative majority in parliament, only added to the problems.

Time is pressing. After Britain's June 23, 2016 referendum to leave the bloc, the other 27 nations wanted to start the exit talks as soon as possible so they could work on their own futures, but Britain long seemed dazed by its own momentous move.

And even when May finally triggered the two-year unraveling process on March 29, she followed it up by calling an early election on June 8 that she hoped would strengthen her majority in parliament and thus her negotiating mandate with the EU.

The move backfired, May lost her Conservative majority in the vote and has been fending off critics of her leadership ever since.

Still, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson remained upbeat Monday, saying he thinks the Brexit negotiations will yield "a happy resolution that can be done with profit and honor for both sides."

Johnson also urged Europeans to look further down the road.

"The most important thing for us is to look to the horizon, raise our eyes to the horizon. In the long run, this will be good for the U.K. and good for the rest of Europe," Johnson said at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
PARIS  A man on the radar of French authorities was killed Monday after ramming a car carrying explosives into a police vehicle in the capital's Champs-Elysees shopping district, prompting a fiery blast, officials said. France's anti-terrorism prosecutor opened an investigation.

No police officers or passers-by were hurt, the Paris police department said. It is unclear why the attacker drove into police, though officials said the incident was apparently deliberate.

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Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said the man was killed after an attempted attack on a police convoy, saying that shows the threat is still very high in the country and justifies a state of emergency in place since 2015. He said he will present a bill Wednesday at a Cabinet meeting to extend the state of emergency from July 15, its current expiration date, until Nov. 1.

He says the current situation in France shows a new security law "is needed" and the measure would "maintain a high security level."

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Two police officials told The Associated Press that a handgun was found on the driver, who they said was badly burned after the vehicle exploded. They identified the man as a 31-year-old man from the Paris suburb of Argenteuil who had an "S'' file, meaning he was flagged for links to extremism.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal details of the incident, the second this year on the city's most famous avenue, which is popular with tourists from around the world.

An attacker defending the Islamic State group fatally shot a police officer on the Champs-Elysees in April, days before a presidential election, prompting an extensive security operation.

On Monday, police cordoned off a broad swath of the Champs-Elysees after the latest incident, warning people to avoid the area.

Interior Ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said the incident was apparently deliberate.

Police "pulled an individual out of the vehicle who had struck the car in front (of the convoy, " Brandet told reporters. "Large numbers of police converged on the scene, firefighters to extinguish the fire."

A man could be seen lying on his stomach on the ground immediately after the incident, wearing a white shirt and dark shorts.

Hours later, access to the avenue remained blocked, while bomb squads combed the area.

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Eric Favereau, a journalist for Liberation newspaper who was driving a scooter behind the gendarmes, said he saw a car blocking the convoy's path, then an implosion in the vehicle. Favereau wrote that the gendarmes smashed open the windows of the car while it was in flames and dragged out its occupant. Other gendarmes used fire extinguishers to put out the flames. The account didn't say what happened to the occupant of the car afterward.

Visitors to a nearby Auguste Rodin exhibit were confined inside the Grand Palais exhibit hall for an hour after the incident.

Victoria Boucher and daughter Chrystel came in from the suburb of Cergy-Pontoise for a Paris visit and weren't afraid to go to the famed avenue.

"We were better off inside than outside," Chrystel said. But both agreed as the mother said, "unfortunately we now are used to this."

"The show must go on," the daughter said in English. "They won't win."

Sylvie Corbet and Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.
Energy Secretary Rick Perry on Monday denied that man-made carbon dioxide emissions are the primary cause of climate change.

Asked in an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box" whether he believed that carbon dioxide was "the primary control knob for the temperature of the Earth and for climate," Perry said that "No, most likely the primary control knob is the ocean waters and this environment that we live in."

Perry added that "the fact is this shouldn't be a debate about, 'Is the climate changing, is man having an effect on it?' Yeah, we are. The question should be just how much, and what are the policy changes that we need to make to effect that?"

Perry's comments fall in line with what Environmental Protection Agency administrator Scott Pruitt said in a March interview on the program. Pruitt said then that he does not believe carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming.

Both men's views contradict the conclusions of scientists at Pruitt's own EPA as well as NASA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

"It is extremely likely that human influence has been the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century," the IPCC said in a 2013 report. Citing the IPCC report, the EPA said on its website, now removed, that "recent climate changes, however, cannot be explained by natural causes alone. Research indicates that natural causes do not explain most observed warming, especially warming since the mid-20th century." The EPA added, "it is extremely likely that human activities have been the dominant cause of that warming."

On Monday, Gavin Schmidt, a top climate scientist at NASA, tweeted that a paper he co-wrote in 2010 used an almost identical phrase in its title  "principal control knob"  as the CNBC's Squawk Box used Monday. But the paper published in Science Magazine warned about the danger of "anthropogenic," or man-made, carbon dioxide continuing "unabated." The paper said that the high rate of atmospheric CO2 increase was "particularly worrisome" and that "the atmospheric CO2 control knob is now being turned faster than at any time in the geological record."

The Center for Biological Diversity took issue with Perry's comment about the oceans.

"Perry has the science exactly backward," said Shaye Wolf, climate science director at the center. "Far from being climate change's key cause, the world's oceans are actually another victim of greenhouse pollution."

Wolf added, "Our oceans absorb millions of tons of carbon dioxide a day, making them dangerously acidic. They've also soaked up most of man-made global warming's excess heat, putting tremendous stress on marine life."

It's true that over far longer time periods, other factors have driven changes to the Earth's climate, such as wobbles in the Earth's orbit around the sun. But in the most immediate period and in the current climate debate, scientists have made very clear that human emissions are the cause.

Perry said, however, that being a skeptic about the causes of climate change was "quite all right." He said, "this idea that science is just absolutely settled and if you don't believe it's settled then somehow you're another Neanderthal, that is so inappropriate from my perspective."

Perry is scheduled to testify three times this week on the Trump administration's proposed fiscal 2018 budget.

Perry has long avoided getting pinned down on mankind's contribution to climate change, and he has said that action on climate change should be weighed against economic costs. Although Perry urged President Donald Trump to remain in the Paris climate accord, Trump cited economic impacts when he announced his decision to pull the United States out of the agreement. Trump drew on forecasts about impacts from a controversial report.

At his confirmation hearing for the energy secretary position, Perry brought up the politically sensitive topic, saying he believed the climate is changing and "some of it" is caused by "man-made activity." He added then: "The question is how we address it in a thoughtful way that doesn't compromise economic growth."

Citing Perry's assertion in his 2010 book that the planet was in a "cooling trend," Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., asked him how much he thinks climate change is caused by human activity. "Far from me to be sitting before you today and claiming to be a climate scientist. I will not do that," Perry said, dodging the question.
Teachers at Passages Charter School, and other teachers march in front of the school, Wednesday May 24, 2017. The teachers ended up reaching a tentative contract agreement the next day. (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune)

In early June, the leadership of Chicago ACTS, the union representing nearly 20 percent of Chicago charter public school teachers, announced its intent to formally join the Chicago Teachers Union. While these groups will argue that they have charter school teachers' best interests at heart, one thing about this merger is clear: It is simply another tactic to strengthen the CTU and undermine the charter public school movement.

It is no secret that the CTU is an anti-charter group that has long been openly hostile to the very existence of charter public schools. In fact, the CTU has blamed them for everything that ails the Chicago Public Schools system today, including "decreased (public school) enrollment, the greatest number of school closings in Chicago's history, budget cuts and layoffs at the majority of schools in the last 10 years."

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Perhaps these are the reasons the CTU uses to justify its disproportionate targeting of charter public schools for disadvantageous treatment. In its labor agreement with CPS, for example, the CTU pushed for a temporary moratorium on charter public schools  and not any other school type  resulting in Chicago's dubious distinction as the only American city with a self-imposed cap on the number of charter public schools and hurting our city's most vulnerable students.

What's more, the CTU has never supported pro-charter laws, even the ones that would benefit teachers working in charter schools. In May 2012, for instance, CTU mounted a "furious campaign" (their words) against state House Bill 4227, which moved to equalize the funding charter and district schools receive. If the CTU were truly invested in the needs of teachers at charter schools, it would not launch a crusade to hurt the very teachers it now claims it wants to help.

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So, if the CTU opposes the very existence of charter schools and laws that would benefit charter school teachers, why is it interested in being the sole representative of these teachers? If completed, the merger would be a boon to the CTU.

First, it would bring millions more dollars in dues for the CTU and its operations, raised on the backs of charter school teachers. The union's website notes that "ChiACTS full-time dues are currently $693, and are likely to rise in coming months."

Second, the CTU tells its members that unionizing charter teachers will lift their own pay even further: "When a growing number of charter teachers in the city earn substantially less than CTU members, that makes it harder for CTU to negotiate wage increases in our contract."

Finally, the CTU has long been threatened by the consistently high performance of charter schools. Since CPS launched charter public schools 20 years ago, charter schools have provided families in communities across the city with high-quality school options. In fact, charter high schools offer students the surest path to college in 83 percent of the neighborhoods they serve. By imposing the same restrictions on charter schools' length of school day, curriculum and staffing that they have on Chicago district-run public schools, CTU aims to take away the things that have made families choose charters in the first place.

One might think that the leadership of the union ostensibly serving Chicago's public charter teachers would be cautious about joining an organization that denigrates the institutions in which their members teach. This merger will formalize a relationship that has great risk to charter schools and its teachers. There is a huge conflict of interest in this merger given CTU's opposition to charters, which regrettably jeopardizes the success of charter schools and their students.

Andrew Broy, a former public school teacher and civil rights lawyer, is president of the Illinois Network of Charter Schools, a group that supports and advocates on behalf of Illinois charter public schools.
Donald Trump tweeted about the terrorist attacks in Paris in November 2015 about 3 1/2 hours after they occurred. The following month, he tweeted about the mass shooting in San Bernardino, Calif., 90 minutes after the violence began. It took fewer than 12 hours from the time an EgyptAir flight went missing in May 2016 for Trump to speculate publicly that the attack was terror-related. More than a year later, it's still not clear what happened to the plane.

When terrorists drove a van into a crowd on London Bridge earlier this month, Trump tweeted about the need to be "smart, vigilant and tough" even before authorities identified terror as the motive behind the attack.

About 15 hours ago, as of this writing, a man drove a van into a group of Muslims near a mosque in London. The attack, which killed one person and injured 10 others, is being treated as terror-related by authorities in Britain. Prime Minister Theresa May described the attack as "every bit as sickening" as the attacks at the London Bridge and, earlier this year, on Westminster Bridge.

Trump tweeted his condolences to the victims of those two earlier attacks  both linked to the Islamic State  the same day they happened. Trump has not tweeted about Sunday night's attack on Muslims.

In response to a crisis, one of the simplest responses from a president is a carefully worded statement of support, condolence or outrage. Simpler still is a brief message on social media. Trump built his political career in part on his willingness to jump into any number of frays by tweeting about them. As we've noted in the past, he shows little reticence to tweet about things he sees on television right after he sees them. Yet, Monday morning: silence.

Trump's use of Twitter betrays his interests and disinterests. On Sunday, Father's Day, Trump tweeted, in order:

A two-part defense of his political success.

An outlier poll showing him as more popular than he is.

A retweet of the performers Diamond and Silk criticizing the media.

A retweet of his son critical of former president Barack Obama.

Praise for Camp David, where he spent the weekend.

And finally, a retweet of the White House's "Happy Father's Day" message that morning.

That Trump hasn't mentioned the attacks on Muslims in London isn't surprising. It took days for him to praise the two men who were stabbed to death in Portland, Ore., while defending Muslim women on a train. It took almost a week for him to speak out about the shooting of two Indian men in Kansas by someone who thought that they were Muslim. In one sense, it's odd that Trump hasn't tweeted condolences to the victims in London, given the criticism he's received for his slow response to the above attacks  but, again, it's not surprising that he hasn't, given his history.

The broader question is why Trump remains uninterested in acknowledging such attacks.

One likely explanation is that Trump sees attacks by people of the Muslim faith through the lens of a rampant anti-Western ideology but views attacks on Muslims as being one-off examples of bad actors. The emergence of al-Qaida and the Islamic State reinforced the idea that there's a substantial, organized subset of the world's Muslim population focused on political violence.

Absent those groups, attacks like the one on Westminster Bridge or at Orlando's Pulse nightclub might more easily be treated as aberrant individual actions in the way that the attack on Muslims in London will be treated in some quarters. That there's a strong but largely disorganized anti-Muslim undercurrent in Western societies that can make Muslims a target of violence lacks the sort of readily identifiable markers as a coordinated terror group, especially for those unwilling to see them.

In June 2015, when a white gunman shot nine black worshipers dead at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, shortly after Trump announced his presidential candidacy, Trump tweeted about it.

The tragedy in South Carolina is incomprehensible. My deepest condolences to all.

- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 18, 2015

It was incomprehensible in the sense that murdering nine people at church is an affront to our sense of humans as rational creatures. It was entirely comprehensible in the sense that a white man who held racist views might target black people in a shooting spree.

To view attacks by Muslims as part of what being Muslim is about but attacks on Muslims as being distinct from the identities of the perpetrators demands seeing those two groups as fundamentally different. Trump has a presumption of guilt for Muslims that he doesn't for the white people who committed the crimes in Kansas, Portland and at the London mosque.

It's interesting to compare Trump's response to the Charleston shooting with his response to the 1980s rape of a white woman in Central Park, for which a group of black and Hispanic teenagers were arrested and which prompted Trump to buy a full-page ad calling for the death penalty for the accused.

Those teenagers were later exonerated when another man admitted to the crime. But Trump, even as recently as last October, seemed to believe that the teenagers were the perpetrators. "They admitted they were guilty. The police doing the original investigation say they were guilty," Trump said last year  eliding the critical point that the confessions were obtained under duress. In Trump's eyes, those teenagers are guilty despite the judicial system rescinding that verdict.

Trump's presidential campaign  and therefore his presidency  relied on the idea that America was under threat from terrorism and crime, a point of view that necessarily overlapped with America's complex racial history. That's the other reason Trump highlights terrorist acts by Muslims and ignores those against them: He has reaped political rewards from it.

Trump views terrorism through a very particular lens, and he won the presidency by articulating that lens. That it's reflected in his Twitter account, then, is not a surprise.
If you listened to President Donald Trump's supporters and a great deal of the media (both mainstream and right-wing) analyzing the 2016 presidential race you would think Trump won the presidency because he understood the economic hardship of those in rural and small-town America. His base was made up of people hurt by globalization and de-industrialization in the heartland, the story goes. The traditional GOP and the Democratic Party, you see, didn't understand this or care about their plight.

We've never really bought that explanation, in part because Trump voters on average were richer than Hillary Clinton voters. Now there is powerful evidence of a disagreeable truth: Trump's base was far more motivated by cultural provincialism and xenophobia than by economic need.

The Post reports that the "popular explanations of the rural-urban divide appear to overstate the influence of declining economic outcomes in driving rural America's support for Trump. The survey responses, along with follow-up interviews and focus groups in rural Ohio, bring into view a portrait of a split that is tied more to social identity than to economic experience." Economic dislocation does not seem to have been the main factor in the election:

"Rural Americans express far more concern about jobs in their communities, but the poll finds that those concerns have little connection to support for Trump, a frequent theory to explain his rise in 2016. Economic troubles also show little relation to the feeling that urban residents have different values.

"Rural voters who lament their community's job prospects report supporting Trump by 14 percentage points more than Clinton, but Trump's support was about twice that margin  30 points  among voters who say their community's job opportunities are excellent or good. Trump also earned about the same level of support from those who say they don't worry about paying their bills as those who couldn't pay their bills at some point in the past year."

If not economics per se, what was the origin of the sharp electoral divide between rural and urban voters? Attitudes on race, culture and immigration seem to predominate:

"The poll reveals that perceptions about abuse of government benefits often go hand in hand with views about race.

"When asked which is more common  that government help tends to go to irresponsible people who do not deserve it or that it doesn't reach people in need  rural Americans are more likely than others to say they think people are abusing the system. And across all areas, those who believe irresponsible people get undeserved government benefits are more likely than others to think that racial minorities receive unfair privileges.

"In response to this poll question  "Which of these do you think is the bigger problem in this country: blacks and Hispanics losing out because of preferences for whites, or whites losing out because of preferences for blacks and Hispanics?"  rural whites are 14 points less likely than urban whites to say they are more concerned about blacks and Hispanics losing out."

While rural Americans may reside in close-knit, overwhelmingly Christian communities, they see themselves as victims in a war against religion. "Nearly 6 in 10 people in rural areas say Christian values are under attack, compared with just over half of suburbanites and fewer than half of urbanites. When personal politics is taken into account, the divide among rural residents is even larger: 78 percent of rural Republicans say Christian values are under attack, while 45 percent of rural Democrats do." Trump magnificently exploited the resentments of white Christians and their anxiety about cities, which he falsely portrayed as experiencing a crime wave.

He also played into negative feelings about immigrants held by people who didn't have much contact with immigrants. "Rural residents are more likely than people in cities or suburbs to think that immigrants are not adapting to the American way of life. The poll also finds that these views soften in rural areas with significant foreign-born populations." They harbor strong feelings that are not the result of actual experience:

Rural residents are also more likely to say that recent immigrants have different values than their own  50 percent, compared with 39 percent of urban residents.

Trump voters in rural areas are the most critical: 74 percent say recent immigrants are not doing enough to assimilate to life in America vs. 49 percent of rural Americans overall who think that, as well.

One reason for rural Americans' concern about immigrants could be their lack of exposure to them. Foreign-born residents make up 2.3 percent of the population in rural counties, compared with nearly 15 percent of urban counties, according to Census Bureau data for 2011-2015. ... The Post-Kaiser poll finds that in rural areas where less than 2 percent of the population are immigrants, less than 4 in 10 residents say immigrants strengthen the country. But that rises to nearly 6 in 10 in rural areas where at least 5 percent are born outside the United States.

Resentment and hysteria over cities and immigrants have been building for years, egged on by talk radio and Fox News and by anti-immigrant groups (e.g., FAIR, NumbersUSA). Trump simply took it to a new level of demagoguery divorced from reality.

As we reenter a national conversation about anger, polarization and rhetorical excess we should expect more diligent, reasoned behavior from both politicians and voters. It is a gross exaggeration to tell rural voters that Christianity is under assault because they cannot dominate societal rules (e.g., businesses cannot discriminate against LGBT customers, official organized school prayer violates the First Amendment). It's flat-out false to say we are being swamped by illegal immigrants. This sort of propaganda lacks a grounding in reality and amps up the already dangerous political environment, which in turn paralyzes our democracy.

Inhabitants of cities are no less or more "American" than rural dwellers, and because of real-life experience display on average more tolerant attitudes toward immigrants. Rural communities have every right to demand adequate services. (Unfortunately, Trump policies make life harder for them. Trumpcare would make their health care more expensive; privatizing the air traffic control system would make airports scarcer in these areas.) Like other Americans, they deserve empathy for the conditions that afflict many communities (drug addiction, soaring rates of those on disability). However, rural voters must, like all Americans, eschew bigotry and reject prevalent conspiracy theories that would alleviate them from personal responsibility for their life choices.

Washington Post
Over the last eight years, gun sales have soared and gun control laws have stalled. Now the NRA is fighting a battle it's already won, and ignoring the real interests of gun owners. (Bonnie Jo Mount / Washington Post)

In the winter of 2008, shortly after the election of Barack Obama, my fiancee and I stopped into a local gun shop in Austin to buy ammunition for target practice, a hobby we enjoyed once or twice a month. Though we hadn't asked, the clerk behind the counter told us that all the AR- and AK-style rifles were back-ordered. We could get on the waitlist, he offered, but the delay might be a couple of months  "if it's still even legal to buy one then."

Eight years later, gun rights in America appear not only to have survived the Obama administration but to have thrived. Gun sales broke records almost every year of the past eight. As president, Obama signed legislation allowing guns onto Amtrak trains and into national parks, where they were previously prohibited, and his executive orders after the Sandy Hook massacre had no perceptible effect on most gun owners. Then we elected Donald Trump  a long-shot candidate who earned an endorsement from the National Rifle Association before he had even consolidated the support of his own political party. In April, Trump became the first sitting U.S. president since Ronald Reagan to address the NRA's annual meeting. He told the cheering crowd that he was their "true friend and champion in the White House" and proclaimed that "the eight-year assault on your Second Amendment freedoms" was over.

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Perhaps the NRA shouldn't have cheered. For years, the gun lobby has built its narrative around the idea that powerful forces in government are conspiring to ban and confiscate privately owned guns. That premise drove gun owners to sporting-goods stores as well as to the polls. Trump's election, coinciding with conservative majorities in both houses of Congress and on the Supreme Court, has tanked gun sales and undermined the NRA's most effective messaging. And with several Republican congressmen targeted this past week in a shooting in suburban Washington, the familiar political rhetoric about guns now seems dissonant.

When the NRA sells T-shirts depicting a rifle-wielding eagle above the slogan "Because you can't fist fight tyranny," the implication is that you can fight tyranny (however you perceive it) with guns. It should be no surprise that someone would shoot democratically elected representatives when we've been told for decades that that's the patriotic redress to political grievances. How will the NRA's anti-government message resonate in the absence of a gun-grabbing bogeyman, and when its own A-rated politicians are targeted by gun violence? And who will represent gun owners' actual interests while the NRA chases an antagonistic strategy that now seems entirely played out?

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The idea that the NRA speaks with one voice for America's 100 million gun owners has never really been credible. The organization claims to have 5 million members, a figure that can't be independently verified and that doesn't jibe with its magazine circulation. That tally also includes people like me: intermittent NRA members who joined as a prerequisite for something else. (Local gun clubs, certain insurance policies and even some employers require NRA membership or subsidize it as a benefit.) In any case, the political agenda of the organization doesn't necessarily reflect the will of rank-and-file members. Of the 76 directors who lead the NRA, annual-dues-paying members elect only one. A small committee nominates candidates to fill the other 75 positions, for which only lifetime members may cast votes.

Still, there's no denying the NRA's huge political influence over the past few decades. Its Political Victory Fund scores candidates at every level of government, and an endorsement can be extremely valuable  in the 2016 election cycle, the NRA dumped millions of dollars into key races. By flexing its political muscle, the NRA has blocked funding for federal gun violence research, stalled presidential appointments and killed every significant piece of gun-control legislation introduced in Congress since the Federal assault weapons ban of 1994.

Having won battles against universal background checks and a federal assault weapons ban, the group has moved on to champion less-popular causes. Here in Texas, affiliates of the NRA have voiced support for the right to carry guns in college classrooms, courthouses, mental hospitals and zoos, and the right to carry a gun with no license or training whatsoever.

But who really wants this stuff? In August 2016, a young man identified himself to the New York Times as the only remaining member of Students for Campus Carry at the University of Texas at Austin (where about 50,000 undergraduates are enrolled). I've observed half a dozen open-carry demonstrations in the vicinity of the Texas State Capitol  the clusters of men with semiautomatic rifles slung across their chests are conspicuous but not numerous. A 2015 University of Texas/Texas Tribune poll found that only 32 percent of Texans wanted looser gun laws; a 2016 poll in Utah found that only 24 percent of Utahns supported legalizing permitless carrying. These are policies in search of a constituency.

Legislators in deep-red Texas,Louisiana and South Carolina were still considering permitless-carry legislation this spring, after similar bills failed in New Mexico, Virginia, Utah and South Dakota. The bills were widely unpopular and were vocally opposed by law enforcement, but had the support of NRA-affiliated state organizations. Gun violence prevention advocates in Texas and Louisiana told me that, behind closed doors, Republican legislators encouraged them to keep up the fight, in the hopes that public pressure would ease these bills to an early death in committee. That's exactly what happened. (Supporters of permitless carry in Texas have hopes that the legislation could get another chance during this summer's special session, but Governor Abbott didn't include it on his 19-point agenda.)

That the policies are unpopular and incite protest can be spun as a plus for the NRA in the post-Obama era. You won't find anybody spontaneously marching in the streets in favor of gun confiscation or a broad ban on civilian gun sales. If the NRA wants to produce evidence of "anti-gun" activism, it needs to provoke it. Suggest guns in dormitories or guns in bars or a bill to allow domestic abusers to keep their guns, and of course somebody will show up wearing a sandwich board or swinging a dildo in protest.

Meanwhile, many new gun owners seem content (or compelled) to stand apart from the NRA and establish their own organizations. These include the National African American Gun Association; the Pink Pistols, an LGBT gun group; Trigger Happy Firearm Instruction, described by its founder as "a movement" for African American women; and the Black Women's Defense League. Some of these growing groups (such as the Liberal Gun Club) have articulated specific policy positions, but most have very broad vision statements about inclusion or empowerment.

Faced with an evolving political climate, the NRA appears now to be doubling down on strategic antagonism. Casting about for a new enemy to replace Obama, the group recently turned its attention to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), which it compares to al-Qaeda. While the NRA focuses on PETA, perhaps one of these emerging groups can take up issues more relevant to many gun owners.

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Almost every gun owner will tell you that they prioritize safety. They're usually talking about their own practices in the way they handle guns. And to their credit, most gun-related organizations I've encountered, including the NRA, offer information or training on the safe handling of firearms to prevent accidents. But what about consumer safety? The NRA has fought efforts to regulate gun and ammunition manufacturing, or to grant any federal agency the authority to mandate a safety recall for firearms. In some instances, gunmakershave known for years about defects in their products that have caused injuries and death, but have delayed issuing a recall. Nearly every other industry in the United States is subject to regulatory oversight for product safety, and the firearm industry should be no different. But when legislators express support for emerging technology that could make guns safer, the NRA labels them "anti-gun."

Another meaningful initiative that a membership organization for gun owners could pursue is suicide prevention. In 2014, I wrote about a small campaign organized by gun enthusiasts and suicide prevention experts in New Hampshire. Part of the idea was that gun owners should, as a matter of course, temporarily take firearms away from friends or relatives experiencing emotional distress (during a divorce or a job loss, for example). The idea is no more offensive than the notion of taking away a friend's car keys when he's had too much to drink. One has to wonder why the NRA, an organization that emphasizes safety, hasn't embraced efforts like this one. The NRA has recently exhibited a little interest in suicide prevention, though it isn't an issue they emphasize. When NRA spokespeople do address suicide, it's usually to dismiss the demonstrable fact that easy access to guns is a risk factor.

A third useful role for a socially responsible gun club could be to work with government to help keep guns out of the wrong hands. It might sound preposterous today to suggest that a firearms enthusiast group might support strict recordkeeping on gun sales or a waiting period for purchases, or might help the government write legislation to restrict civilian access to battlefield weapons. But it has happened before, in the 1920s and '30s. The group was called the National Rifle Association.

Washington Post

Matt Valentine has written about gun policy and gun violence for the Atlantic and Politico Magazine.
Just a few miles and months from Philando Castile's fatal shooting by a police officer during a routine traffic stop, I steered my car toward a restaurant in St. Paul, Minn. Not to sound all Twilight Zone about it, but my unintended destination was the parallel racial universe of encounters between civilians and cops.

It was a Friday night in September, and my wife and I had just had drinks while hearing an after-work show by a favorite bar band. Now we had a dinner reservation in the tony Cathedral Hill neighborhood and were looking for a parking spot.

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I drove past one vacant space, trying to get closer to the restaurant, and finding nothing, pulled a New York-expat move by rolling back fast a block in reverse to claim the still-open spot.

Then, as my wife and I started walking to dinner, a police officer rushed out from another nearby eatery and confronted me. Didn't I know I'd smacked into the car parked behind mine? Was I just going to pretend nothing had happened?

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Flummoxed, I replied that I had not even touched the other car. The cop insisted that I walk over to the cars to admit to the damage. Instead, we found a foot of open asphalt between my rear bumper and the other vehicle's front bumper, and not a scratch on either one. And that, I assumed, would be the end of that, an honest mistake on the officer's part.

My wife and I started out a second time for the restaurant, and the officer blocked our path to inform me that if I left the scene of this "hit and run," he would file charges against me for leaving the scene of an accident.

Searching for witnesses, the officer went back into his restaurant and then across the street to a few elderly ladies sitting in folding chairs. No one had seen anything because there had been nothing to see. The officer's partner came out to join him, and I was pretty sure I saw on the partner's face a flicker of eye-rolling disbelief.

Again, I hoped we were done. No such luck. The first officer issued an edict. I had to leave a note on the windshield of the other car admitting to an accident that had never happened and providing my contact information. Otherwise, I'd be charged with leaving the scene.

At about this point, I began to think about Philando Castile. Here I was being intimidated into confessing to something I had not done. Here I was in the control of a young, presumably inexperienced, perhaps enraged or perhaps just anxious police officer, who was escalating a nonexistent fender-bender into a potential arrest  or something worse.

What if I had been African-American and 32 years old like Castile instead of 60 and white? Would I have been thrown up against a wall and frisked and cuffed, charged with resisting arrest? And what if a black version of me had objected?

Because I had capitulated by writing out a false confession, the officer said he would settle for giving me a ticket for reckless driving. All this time, in the 20 minutes or so we had been on the sidewalk, he had not even bothered to ask for my license and registration. That sure would have seemed like the logical first step.

So I pulled out my New York state driver's license and handed it to the officer. Then I said, "If you want to verify that's who I really am, here are a couple more things." From my wallet, I slid out my ID cards from The New York Times (where I was then a columnist) and the University of Minnesota (where I was a visiting professor for a semester). My wife demanded reciprocal identification from both officers.

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After a few minutes in his squad car running my information, the officer returned. He had decided not even to ticket me. Of course, we both knew exactly what had happened. I had pulled my white-skin, professional, establishment privilege. I had implicitly dared him to make trouble for someone with the capacity to make trouble back, maybe by filing a civilian complaint to the police department.

The dinner plans were ruined. My wife and I drove back across to Minneapolis, doing 15 miles an hour in a 30 zone and relentlessly checking the rearview mirror, just to make sure that the law-enforcement portion of our evening was done.

Along with my IDs and driver's license, my wallet now also contained the second police officer's business card, on which he'd written down his offending partner's name. I still have that card. I'd been half-expecting to find the officer implicated in some case of harassment or brutality against someone with a lot less social power than I possess.

I never did see any such report. But Friday's acquittal of Castile's killer on manslaughter charges brings my own experience fiercely to mind. The jurors in that case clearly carried an assumption that Castile must have done something to legitimately scare Officer Jeronimo Yanez into firing.

Even though Castile had told Yanez he had a licensed firearm and that he was reaching only for his wallet, even though Castile had his girlfriend and her little daughter in the car with him, even though Castile had a provable work record in the St. Paul school system, surely the benefit of the doubt had to accrue to the cop. Something was different during my encounter with the police. It's not hard to see what it was.

Washington Post

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Samuel G. Freedman is a professor of journalism at Columbia University.
Movie director Oliver Stone is being criticized for asking Russian President Vladimir Putin softball questions. NBC News' Megyn Kelly was slammed for asking adversarial questions that Putin nevertheless can easily dismiss. So how does one interview Putin to satisfy the demanding critics?

I've never interviewed the Russian leader, although I met with him during his first presidential term when I was editor of a business daily in Moscow. Based on that experience, and on having read and watched countless interviews with him, I rather think no one can do much better with Putin than Russian voters at his annual call-in show. They ask questions such as, "Why is my salary as a grade school teacher in the Irkutsk region so low?" or "Where is the new apartment I was promised as a flood victim?" It's easy to imagine the relevant local officials squirming as Putin promises to check into a specific case.

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When Putin talks to professional interviewers, his answers, which have seemed for years to come off a stack of talking point cards, have the same function. They are signals and messages to someone who isn't in the room, but they are only secondary signals compared with what Putin actually does.

It's pointless to judge a journalist or filmmaker by what he or she asks Putin or how he responds. Putin's public interactions are essentially one-sided, and though it might appear that he's reacting to an interlocutor, he doesn't really engage with the interviewers or with those who ask him questions during his carefully stage-managed call-ins and press conferences; he uses them. All they can do in response is try to use him, too  to make money, enhance their standing, or try to get a life situation resolved.

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In September 2000  about six months into his presidency  Putin faced extended questioning from the formidable Larry King. Among his smooth stock answers was a spiel about Russia's opposition to the U.S. anti-missile defense system in Europe; he repeated it almost verbatim to Stone 16 years later. His only misstep occurred, as many thought at the time, when King asked him what had happened to Kursk, the Russian submarine that foundered with its crew in the Barents Sea. "It sank," Putin replied with a chillingly calm cynicism.

I no longer think that was a slip. In the most recent interviews, with Kelly and Stone, Putin wasn't shy about demonstrating misogynist and homophobic attitudes. With Kelly it was all mansplaining and unnecessary references to her kids; with Stone, it was quips about never having bad days because he's not a woman and about using judo if a gay sailor approached him in the shower. These tasteless jokes get quoted a lot as though they reveal something about his personality. But Putin doesn't make them naively: He knows how they make enlightened Westerners squirm. Putin can afford to be brash and insensitive. To him, that's evidence he's impervious to comments that would ruin a Western politician. That even appeals to his American fans, at least the ones I've met, because it rejects political correctness.

I can't recall a single interview or public appearance in which Putin revealed anything accidentally or under pressure. He's had editors of publications ranging from The Wall Street Journal to the German tabloid Bild ask him pointed, tricky, mock-softball, pseudo-naive questions. He's conducted four-hour press conferences and five-hour call-in shows. On each and every one of these occasions, he delivered a calculated performance to a specific audience without emotion. His dissembling is always deliberate, and his deviations from facts are meant to amplify the message.

In the case of foreign interviewers, the audience is the governments and political establishments of their countries and, to a lesser extent, the domestic audience that expects him to hold his own against the West. The message he has for foreign leaders hasn't changed in 17 years: "Russia is a sovereign power with a set of historic interests that it will pursue no matter what; Western powers can't tell Russia what to do."

Ever since he came to power, Putin has been absolutely predictable in his central messages. An interviewer can only hope Putin comes up with a new turn of phrase or shows a little bit of his tightly guarded private life. He told Stone he'd become a grandfather  a tidbit that wasn't revealed to the Russian media. That made some Russian commentators jealous, with one complaining that the "American movie star" received "more personal stuff than (Putin had) given in all these years to any interviewer with a Russian passport."

The most important lesson of understanding Putin is an old one: actions speak louder than words. It's these actions that deserve to be scrutinized and interpreted, however glamorous a high-profile interview may be.

Bloomberg

Leonid Bershidsky is a Bloomberg View columnist. He was the founding editor of the Russian business daily Vedomosti and founded the opinion web site Slon.ru.
The Illinois House chamber empties after spring legislative session ended. The last day of the Illinois General Assembly in session at the State Capitol in Springfield on Wednesday, May 31, 2017. (Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune)

At least in an episode of "The Three Stooges," Moe's upbraiding of Curly and Larry snapped them into obedience. Springfield's top three leaders show no such signs of yielding. Everyone wants to be Moe.

Lawmakers are heading back to Springfield on Wednesday for a 10-day special session. Yes, it'll cost you roughly $50,000 per day, taxpayers. What will you get for your money?

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We're trying to remain hopeful Gov. Bruce Rauner, Senate President John Cullerton and House Speaker Michael Madigan will return to the Capitol prepared to negotiate in good faith without the need for a Moe-style intervention.

The majority Democrats need GOP cooperation to get a budget to Rauner's desk, now that they blew through a May 31 deadline.

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The state is in full-blown crisis. When Moody's Investors Service downgraded Illinois' credit rating (again) earlier this month, analysts estimated the state's unfunded pension liability to be about $251 billion, jumping nearly 25 percent during the fiscal year that ended in June 2016. That's nothing short of alarming.

The state's $14.3 billion in unpaid bills represents about 40 percent of its annual operating budget, Moody's pointed out. Talk of allowing the state to file for bankruptcy is heating up in financial circles.

We'll stop there with the miserable math.

Countless citizens, editorial boards and analysts have been waving danger signs at Illinois' finances for years. Financial watchdogs began flagging the state's exploding pension crisis more than a decade ago. Civic groups followed. Even former Gov. Pat Quinn tried to slam on the brakes, at one point cutting off lawmaker paychecks until they passed pension reform. The Illinois Supreme Court later struck that down.

Legislative leaders continued speeding past the red buoys.

It's infuriating that members of the General Assembly thumbed their noses at their constitutional duty to get a budget on the governor's desk and instead adjourned May 31. Yes, the Senate passed a budget proposal, but the House promptly ignored it.

Since then, the House with Madigan at the helm has resorted to the cynical tactics of two summers ago, taking testimony from citizens harmed by the budget impasse instead of actually resolving the impasse. It's all for show.

And that's doubly frustrating. We've gone almost three years without a budget and all sides continue to invest more thought, strategy, time and resources into posturing than actually governing.

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Here's how it goes: Madigan puts out a news release claiming to be the earnest one working toward a budget. Please. How embarrassingly disingenuous.

Cullerton puts out a news release puffing his chest by reminding the public that his chamber passed a budget. We know, Mr. President.

Rauner puts out a news release scolding Democrats, again. Got it.

It's a tiring, sadly predictable cycle. It's a game. Who will win the public relations battle with a snarky retort aimed at the opposition? Who can revel in the most damaging headline about an opponent? Which one of them wins the label of third-worst elected official for the day? Hooray?

The Democrats argue Rauner should drop his pro-growth reform agenda and just sign a tax hike.

But now, nearly three years in, Republicans make a strong argument that Rauner needs to go bigger. The hole is that much deeper. More reform is needed in 2017 than it was in 2015. Why don't the Democrats understand that? A tax hike without generous salve to keep businesses and residents from fleeing is more critical to saving the state, not less.

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Wednesday is Day 1 of this special session. We're crossing our fingers all sides will realize the necessity of setting aside the news releases, the public relations baloney and the election-driven machinations. The state is sinking.

Whatever relationships have been damaged, Governor, Speaker and President  or Moe, Larry and Curly if you prefer  it's high time to let it go. You've got 10 days. Do it in less.

Join the discussion on Twitter @Trib_Ed_Board and on Facebook.

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In this photo released to by AFP by The Slants on June 19, 2017, shows band members of the Slants Ken Shima, Simon Young, Yuya Matsdua, and Joe X. Jiang posing for a photo in Portland, Oregon. The U.S. Supreme Court on June, 19, 2017, ruled in favor of an Asian-American band calling themselves The Slants, who had been denied the right to trademark their name because it was deemed a racial slur. (Sarah Giffrow, AFP/Getty Images)

Americans generally disapprove of racial slurs. Someone who utters one in the company of others may provoke awkward silence, blunt criticism, loud outrage or worse. Social ostracism, organized protests and loss of employment may result as well. Bill Maher had to apologize after his jocular use of the N-word on his HBO show "Real Time."

But one method of deterring such language is off-limits: government action to suppress it. Under our Constitution, offensive epithets may not be outlawed. In the immortal words of Supreme Court Justice William Brennan, "If there is a bedrock principle underlying the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable."

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The court reaffirmed that view Monday when it said the federal government may not deny trademark protection to an Asian-American rock band that goes by the provocative name the Slants. By using that word, the band intended to mock racists and convert the slur into "a badge of pride." In the same vein, it gave its albums titles like "The Yellow Album" and "Slanted Eyes, Slanted Hearts."

But the federal trademark office rejected the Slants' attempt to register their name. It cited a federal law denying protection for any trademark that "may disparage" people or groups "or bring them into contempt or disrepute."

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Never mind that the purpose of the name in this case was just the opposite  to deprive the term of its power to wound. The important point is that the government chose to penalize the band because its name would offend some people. And that offended the First Amendment.

Trademarks are an ancient tool that serves to protect companies and consumers by preventing confusion and deception. They allow private firms to distinguish themselves from their rivals and to prevent counterfeiting. All of this fosters healthy commercial competition, to the benefit of ordinary people.

The trademark office, however, argued that by granting the trademark to the Slants, it would be effectively lending the term a government imprimatur. The court, it noted, has ruled that states can control the messages on vehicle license plates because the plates are mandated, produced and owned by government bodies.

But the Supreme Court, by an 8-0 vote, said this case is different. It noted that the government "does not dream up these marks, and it does not edit marks submitted for registration." Wrote Justice Samuel Alito, "If trademarks represent government speech, what does the government have in mind when it advises Americans to 'make believe' (Sony), 'Think different' (Apple), 'Just do it' (Nike) or 'Have it your way' (Burger King)?"

The decision has obvious implications for the NFL's Washington Redskins, whose trademark protection was canceled in 2014 on grounds similar to those the government offered here. The team lost a decision in a district court, but its chances of winning suddenly look very good.

When the Slants perform, anyone who objects to their name is free to boycott, protest or mobilize criticism on social media. But using the power of the federal government to punish them should not be an option. Thanks to the Supreme Court, it no longer is.

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Community Unit School District 308 board members have approved hiring a new director of English learners.

Eulalia Valdez, currently assistant director of English language learners in West Aurora School District 129, will begin in the Oswego-based district July 1.

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Valdez will replace the district's current director of English learners, Theresa Ulrich, who is leaving the district at the end of June, Communications and Community Relations Coordinator Kandi King said.

Valdez's base salary will be $98,000, according to a copy of her contract. Her benefits include an in-district travel stipend, and her contract spells out her eligibility for raises in following years if she completes a doctorate degree in education and continues to be employed in the district.

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"We are thrilled to have Ms. Valdez join the district," Superintendent John Sparlin said in a statement. "Her experience, knowledge and talent is a welcome addition and will be incredibly valuable to both students and faculty."

Before Valdez worked in West Aurora, she was director of language learning in Naperville School District 203 and director of English language acquisition services in Plano School District 88, according to District 308. She has bachelor's degrees in Spanish business translation and marketing from Northern Illinois University, a teaching certificate from Aurora University and a master's degree in school leadership from Concordia University in suburban Chicago, according to the district.

"I'm honored and pleased to have the opportunity to serve the community, leadership and students of District 308, Valdez said in a statement.
A test preparation business that already has Chicago-area locations in Winnetka, Highland Park and Lincoln Park is opening in Clarendon Hills.

Academic Approach has scheduled an open house from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in its Clarendon Hills office, 136 Burlington Ave.

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The business's founder, Matthew Pietrafetta, said having a Clarendon Hills location is a perfect fit for clients who have been driving to Lincoln Park from the western suburbs.

"It hasn't been very convenient for them," Pietrafetta said. "Clarendon Hills is a beautiful community. We talked with the families we deal with, and many said this is a good, centrally located location.

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"Some of our tutors have been driving to homes and libraries throughout the western suburbs, and now they can come here."

Academic Approach is a welcome addition to Clarendon Hills, said Dan Ungerleider, the village's community development director.

"They will do well here, given our residents' understanding of the importance of a good education," Ungerleider said.

Academic Approach's focus is raising student achievement on college-entrance exams, such as the ACT and SAT.

Pietrafetta founded the business in 2001 and previously taught at Columbia University in New York and tutored students preparing for the SAT and ACT.

He said it was during that period that he developed a rigorous instructional commitment not only to raising his students' test scores but also to developing their vital college-readiness skills.

Academic Approach began with the focused mission of mentoring students, while building their skills and confidence as they fill in essential gaps in curriculum that prevent them from being fully successful, both on the test and in the classroom, Pietrafetta said.

"It is our goal to work closely with parents, teachers, and entire school systems in the effort to rethink the role of test preparation within education," he said.

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Pietrafetta said Academic Approach offers both customized one-on-one tutorial programs for students as well as school-based programs, which provide teachers assessments and instructional services that raise student achievement.

"We work with students at all different levels," Pietrafetta said. "We are flexible, committed educators, dedicated to supporting growth for all students at any level of achievement."

cfieldman@pioneerlocal.com

Twitter @chuckwriting
Many games were offered during the recent Oak Street Health 2017 Senior Like Resource Fair. (Sue Ellen Ross / Post-Tribune)

Individuals and families dealing with the many complex issues of aging  whether it's taking care of themselves or other family members  found some comfort at the recent Oak Street Health 2017 Senior Life Resource Fair held at Wicker Park Social Center.

Fifty-six vendors ranged from Meals on Wheels to The Care Van (which provides non-emergency medical transports) to local banks and retail stores.

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"This is our second annual Resource Fair," said Damion Smith, Oak Street community relations manager. "The idea is to connect vendors with the many community members that need their services. This event is geared toward senior citizens and/or their caregivers."

Many visitors echoed the thought that they have been encouraged to search out information on their own, but that events such as this fair helped to actually, 'see what's out there'  serving as a valuable tool.

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"I like to be pro-active, so I'm gathering as much material as I can about rehab facilities, nursing homes and other things," said Griffith resident Yolanda Paster. "I don't need any of these things right now, but life changes fast, and I've seen many of my friends that weren't prepared how to deal with those changes."

Although looking toward the future regarding aging can be somewhat depressing, it also can be a time of enlightenment as to how to handle unplanned circumstances.

"Depending on a person's age and situation, there's different needs at different times in our lives," said Humana insurance advisor Ken Peterson. "There are certain health issues that we can expect to happen, especially as we get older, but also some we weren't expecting."

So, considering options is always a good idea, he added.

Mary Prentiss of Gary agrees.

"I never thought I would be faced with arthritis and my ability to walk as I used to," she said. "But when my uncle retired, he had to use a cane. When he died, it was given to me. I put it aside, never realizing that it would end up as my constant companion, as it is these days."

Caregivers talked at length with many of the representatives.

"I help take care of my parents. They are both in their 80s and in bad health, but don't want to go into a nursing home," said Frank Traynor of Gary, as he stopped by the booth of an assisted living facility. "But it's getting increasingly hard to keep up with them and the large house they've lived in for 50 years."

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And then there's the emotional component of the doing what's best for all involved, he added.

"The professionals at this resource fair are answering many of my questions; they're putting my mind at ease," Traynor said.

Bank representatives discussed the importance of getting financial affairs in order as we age, as well as including others about our decisions.

"I understand this completely," said Jasmine Taylor of Highland. "When my mom passed away last year, we didn't know where her life insurance policy was. And we also found out she had an additional savings account at a bank other than the one she always used."

Many people don't know that Costco Wholesale has affordable medical prescription service available for senior citizens, according to Jacquelyn Chirillo, an outside marketer.

"And you don't have to be a member (of Costco) to use it," she said.

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Many visitors came away from the fair with not only a multitude of pamphlets, pens and key chains from the various vendors, but a much better understanding of what many of these organizations do.

"It's so nice to put a face with a company," said Francine Harris of Munster, as she searched for home care service that could help her elderly relative. "My 88-year-old aunt is starting to need more attention than I can give her and I've been confused as to what to do. This resource fair is a god-send. I hope they have more."

Oak Street Health will continue to sponsor this annual event, according to Smith.

"There is definitely a need for it," he said.

Oak Street Health describes their services as geared toward the health care of patients with Medicare. According to their website, they develop a comprehensive care plan to address the specific needs of each patient.

The organization has two locations in northwest Indiana  Hammond and Gary.

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For more information, call (219) 237-5170, Gary; or (219) 237-5160, Hammond.

Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
Two Oakton Community College educators are part of an eight-member team that was scheduled to leave Saturday on a weeklong humanitarian mission to Haiti to work with youths in a northern city of the impoverished Caribbean nation, college officials announced in a news release.

The Haiti Youth Project, which was started and is overseen by Oakton Training Specialist Cynthia Townsend of Chicago, was created to expand the arts to students at the Eden School in the Haitian city of Gonaives, located two hours north of Port-au-Prince, the country's capital, according to the release.

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Oakton Sociology Lecturer Cheryl Thayer of Western Springs is also part of the team, officials said.

"Our mission trip in 2016 was extremely successful, and during this upcoming visit, we want to continue to expand the offerings at the school as well as provide professional development to the staff there," Townsend said in the release. "I'm looking forward to seeing the progress the school has made from last year and taking it to the next level."

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Townsend said she established the Haiti Youth Project in 2009  a year before an earthquake would ravage the poor nation  to try to connect youth and young adults in humanitarian service for annual mission trips to the second most populous nation in the Caribbean.

Every year, she said, she travels to the school with a team that includes students with the goal of expanding educational opportunities in the arts there.

Last year, during the organization's weeklong trip, Townsend and her fellow travelers established visual arts and music programs at the school attended by about 50 orphans, the release states.

The work with orphans is a motivation for Townsend, as she was an orphaned youth.

"When I was young, I didn't have anyone in my life guiding me," she said in the release. "I want to make an impact so that both the American and Haitian youth know that they can use their artistic talents to benefit not only themselves but to help others."

One goal for this year's trip is to help the school generate some revenue through art since education is poorly funded in Haiti, she told the Skokie Review.

That may be accomplished through selling art or enrolling people in classes for a fee, which will be part of professional development training, Townsend said.

Members of the organization pay for the cost of the airfare to Haiti, but HYP also received donations to help defray the cost of the mission trip, according to the release.

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"There's no price tag you can put on opening possibilities for students," Townsend said in the release. "My dream is to solve problems around the world and assist impoverished communities within various countries in improving educational opportunities. As an educator, I've been given gifts through my knowledge and experience and want to give back."

The trip this year  scheduled to run from June 17 to June 23  will be Thayer's first to Haiti, she said in the news release.

"I'm really excited about visiting a different culture and helping to make a difference for the students in Haiti," she said.

Thayer said she stresses the importance of service learning to her students at Oakton and this trip will set an example. She said she plans to incorporate in her classes this fall what she learns during her time in Haiti, according to the release.
Police ask public to help identify vehicle allegedly used in homicide
By Femke van Rijt

When entering the Chinese market, some foreign companies attempt to use the same business and marketing tactics that have worked for them elsewhere. Many underestimate the need for market research, which helps localize marketing tactics, prior to entry.

Investors who fail to understand the nuances of the Chinese market will struggle to survive. In this article, we will explore the different ways in which some multinational companies have failed or succeeded in acclimating to the Chinese market.

Starbucks: Targeted online marketing

Starbucks is one of the most popular foreign brands in China, with more than 2,600 outlets at the end of March 2017, representing 10 percent of the companys presence worldwide. Every day, new stores are opened, and Starbucks expects to have 5,000 stores by 2021.

One of the reasons behind Starbucks rapid expansion is Chinas rising middle class, who are very interested in Western brands and products. While Starbucks product offerings in China do not differ greatly from their other global outlets, the brand has begun to customize some of its menu to reflect local tastes, such as offering scones with the popular red bean flavor.

Starbucks has achieved success in China through its star member card offering. This creates exclusivity for the Starbucks brand, as customers have to pay for the card. Since the membership is an effort to reward loyalty, it enhances the companys reputation. Already, about 12 million people in China have signed up.

Further, to better reach their customers, Starbucks greatly prefers an online marketing strategy as it understands that its target customer base lives in a heavily digitalized environment.

For instance, WeChat, a popular social media app in China, is used for 29 percent of total payments made at Starbucks. Consequently, Starbucks entered into a strategic partnership with Tencent, the developer of WeChat. Together, in February 2017, they launched a social gifting campaign titled, Say it with Starbucks. Users could send WeChat friends a voucher for a coffee redeemable at any Starbucks location. In the first seven weeks after its launch, about 1.2 million gift vouchers were sent.

With this campaign, Starbucks was able to reach out to new customers by utilizing the WeChat friend groups of their existing customer base. This marketing strategy also effectively tapped into key Chinese values of community and togetherness, fostering a positive brand association.

RELATED: Luxury Stores in China Are Making Moves on WeChat

Uber: Competition from local players

Uber entered the Chinese market in 2014, and initially avoided the mistakes that foreign companies usually make in new territories. They invested in a subsidiary, Uber China, which was a Chinese entity, thus circumventing restrictions for foreign companies.

Unfortunately, Uber underestimated the local competition. When Uber entered China, local companies Didi and Kuaidi were in the middle of an intense war for market share in the transport service sector. Eventually, the two merged in February 2015, and rebranded as Didi Chuxing.

For Uber, China was their largest market, but also the most expensive one due to competition from both local rivals and taxi businesses that had strong ties with the government. While there was room for a ride sharing company since urban migration had massively expanded the population in cities even as transport had not kept up with demand, there was no room for two giants.

Meanwhile, Didi had already been active since 2012, expanding to 300 cities with 11 million users. In contrast, by the end of 2014, Uber could only secure one percent of the ride sharing market, after spreading to 60 cities with one million users.

Inevitably, Uber lost the price war and merged with Didi Chuxing in August 2016. Uber China kept 20 percent of the stake. Didi Chuxing immediately changed the language of its app to Mandarin, although the app has since reintroduced its English option.

Competitive analysis, particularly from domestic companies, must be a key part of any pre-investment research. Otherwise, foreign investors risk losing considerable time and money.

RELATED: Business Intelligence Solutions from Dezan Shira & Associates

Airbnb: A rose by any other name

Similar to Uber, Airbnb is a disruptive innovator that has had to face regulatory hurdles as well as cultural obstacles in their entry to China. Culturally, Airbnb faces the difficulty of establishing trust between the homeowners and the renters using its platform. Having strangers stay at ones house, particularly without direct oversight, is not an easy decision for many homeowners in China.

Tujia, Airbnbs biggest competitor, dealt with the issue of distrust by managing the property directly or through a third party. This means the company takes care of the due diligence for its listings, and even housekeeping. By doing so, Tujia offers homeowners more security, and provides visitors with a professional experience.

To compete, Airbnb has positioned itself as a platform selling the local experience. They offer local tours, targeting young and adventurous travelers. However, in an effort to adapt to the Chinese market, Airbnb also chose a Chinese name  Aibiying  that was immediately mocked as ridiculous and hard to pronounce.

Learning from Airbnbs missteps, companies choosing to rebrand by adopting a Chinese name should consider certain factors. First, the domestic branding should communicate the brands story; second, the local name should be easy to remember; and third, it should sound professional. Companies should also ensure that the local name is not misinterpreted in Mandarin, otherwise customers may not be willing to use the adopted name.

Airbnb recently appointed a new vice president, Ge Kong, to oversee the Chinese market. There have been rumors about an acquisition by Tujia, but for now, Airbnb is trying to consolidate its market share and grow in China.

Lessons for new market entrants

Starbucks experience highlights the importance of reaching customers online to connect with them offline, while Ubers experience proves that domestic players can compete with global firms. In the case of Airbnb, it remains to be seen how well the company will perform, and whether it will be able to fend off competition from Tujia by creating and expanding its own niche.

Regardless, it is clear that investors need to study their targeted market consumer base. Lessons can be learned by studying the success and failure of peers within your industry.

Large multinational companies with a track record of success in Europe and the U.S. are not guaranteed to succeed in China as well. Businesses looking to enter China will need to cover all their bases: they must customize their product or service for the intended market base, pay attention to its regulatory environment, and carefully assess local competitors.



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Payroll Processing in China: Challenges and Solutions

In this issue of China Briefing magazine, we lay out the challenges presented by Chinas payroll landscape, including its peculiar Dang An and Hu Kou systems. We then explore how companies of all sizes are leveraging IT-enabled solutions to meet their HR and payroll needs, and why outsourcing payroll is the answer for certain company structures. Finally, we consider the potential for China to emerge as Asias premier payroll processing center.

Dezan Shira & Associates
Editor's Notes: From the runway to exhibitions and presentations to digital mode, Paris seems like the fashion city of choice for most Chinese designers. This year's Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2017-2018 begins on July 2 and will feature a range of top Chinese fashion designers, including Laurence Xu, who's made another great collection themed on a picturesque Chinese landscape.

Haute couture, defined by the French Federation of Fashion and of Ready-to-Wear Couturiers and Fashion Designers, has become an expression of French national pride and Parisian self-belief. Its committee, however, has a very tough approval process for non-French designers' applications, but Xu's couture managed to receive a tick of approval and he was invited to return again.

"Xu's vision involves all the necessary elements for a luxury haute couture brand: craftsmanship, history, cultural heritage, storytelling, emotion and endless elegance," said Christine Zhao Qian, director of the Paris Chinese Haute Couture Association, who recommended Xu for Paris Haute Couture Week.

Chinese fashion designer Laurence Xu talks with reporters about his use of traditional and exquisite techniques at his studio in Beijing on June 16. [Photo by Yu Jie/Provided to China Daily]

Final preparations for Chinese fashion designer Xu's work are underway before his collection is featured at the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2017-2018, which begins on July 2.

The occasion will mark the third time for Xu to showcase his talent and creations in the international fashion arena.

The 43-year-old is set to present 38 stunning gowns that are an opulent melding of Western cuts and traditional Chinese symbolism.

However, the collection will be different from his last two appearances in 2013 and 2015. For the 2017 couture line, he turned to traditional Chinese elements, particularly Guizhou wax printing and Miao embroidery, to create his own distinct aesthetics, told China Daily website.

"From highly embellished gowns to the 'natural' landscape aesthetic, I just want to make a spiritual pilgrimage, and slow down a bit from the hustle and bustle of modern life," he said at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday.

Renowned as an ambassador of Chinese traditions, Xu considers embroidery and brocade as part of his design DNA. Also, he said he felt a "responsibility" to keep the ancient Chinese wax printing techniques alive while presenting the delicate design to the world.

Traditionally, the wax printing technique is created using a small spatula as a pen and wax liquid as paint to draw patterns on the cloth. Then the cloth is placed into a dye vat with handmade blue paint.

"However, wax prints are not confined to an indigo colored pattern. The cloth could be colored in a variety of ways and shaped in different styles that creates a modern look, juxtaposing both Western silhouettes and Chinese flavor," Xu explained.

It usually takes dozens of craftsmen 20 days to finish an article of clothing, according to Xu's assistant. The show costs him almost 30 million yuan ($4.4 million) as Xu prepares it for half a year.

Xu believes his creations with exquisite Chinese wax printing techniques could become classic again, like the "dragon robe" designed for a Chinese actress that was later acquired by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

"Making my designs at an affordable price is not an easy job, but I strive to do so in the near future," Xu said, adding that 80 percent of his current customers are the ultra-wealthy from China's Hong Kong, Singapore and Arab countries.
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A chartered plane with 1,012 American boars aboard arrives in central China's Hunan Province on Sunday, the second time for the province to import breeding swine from the United States. [Photo/baijiahao.baidu.com]

A chartered plane with 1,012 American boars aboard arrived in central China's Hunan Province on Sunday, the second time for the province to import breeding swine from the United States.

The plane departed from Chicago. The boars will be quarantined for 45 days before they are distributed to pig farms in the province and neighboring areas.

The boars were imported by China Animal Husbandry Group. They were selected from six pig farms in the U.S. and underwent a quarantine inspection before boarding the plane.

In 2012, Hunan imported more than 1,000 boars from the U.S. for the first time through chartered flight.

Importing boars can improve the quality of local breeding swine for Hunan, one of the major pig raising provinces in the country, said Wang Xinwu, deputy head of the Hunan Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau.

Pork is the staple meat for Chinese.
A man rides Bluegogo's shared bike. [File photo]

Sydneysiders are getting ready to say goodbye to their transport woes next month, when the harbour city's first dockless bike-sharing venture is set to launch.

ReddyGo, a Sydney venture backed by China's Bluegogo, will bring thousands of bikes over the coming months that can be unlocked by users with a smartphone app and cost 1.99 Australian dollars (1.48 U.S. dollars) for 30 minutes.

"Dockless bike share has the potential to transform travel in our city," a ReddyGo spokesperson told Fairfax Media.

"The first 160 bikes will ship from China on Monday, but the plan is to put 6000 bikes on greater Sydney's streets within six months."

Founder Donald Tang, who has lived in Sydney for 12 years, came up with the idea after the frustration of continually being late, the University of Technology Sydney graduate said.

ReddyGo bikes will be supplied by Binsen Tang's Bluegogo, which is China's third largest bike-sharing business.

His company Elex-Tech, a mobile gaming venture with has 50 million users, will also be involved in building the app for ReddyGo.

But like China, where competition is fierce, the Australian market may also quickly begin to heat up.

In the city of Melbourne a company called Obike is already in operation and in September, Sydney University will launch a rival bike-sharing scheme called Airbike.

Another potential problem for the two-wheel venture, is that unlike China, Australia have strict helmet laws.

This means ReddyGo bikes will come with a helmet and could easily become a target of thieves.

But the Sydneysider believes he may have already solved that problem, "we will be happy if any user steals them, because there is a big logo on those helmets... it will be free marketing," Tang said.
Chinese environment authorities will establish a system to prevent and punish environmental data fraud, according to an official.

Since environmental monitoring is an important part of technical support in environment management, the ministry will give administrative penalties to people involved in environmental data fraud and transfer them to judicial organs for investigation if necessary, said the official with the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

Xi'an Intermediate People's Court in northwest China's Shaanxi Province Friday sentenced seven people, including the heads of two environmental protection branches, to imprisonments of over one year for falsifying air quality monitoring data.

The court said they interfered in the data collection of air quality, and used cotton to fill sampling instruments to lower pollution data, in February and March 2016.
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Police in northern China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have arrested 34 suspects in connection with illegal gun manufacturing and trading, according to regional police.

Police in Ordos city seized 41 hunting rifles, 175 semi-finished guns and a large number of bullets.

In March, police from Ordos City Public Security Bureau found a parcel containing suspected gun parts when inspecting the postal sector, leading to the arrest of a gun buyer surnamed Zhang.

Police continued their investigation and destroyed a gun manufacturing site in Yulin city, Shaanxi Province. A suspect surnamed Xie and his son were arrested and a set of gun making equipment and several guns were seized.

Police recently arrested another 24 gun purchasers in Shaanxi and areas of Inner Mongolia in connection with the case.

China bans the manufacturing and sale of guns, with members of the general public not allowed to own them.

Anyone found guilty of owning a gun can face up to seven years in prison.
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A Chinese naval fleet sailed out of a port in south China's Hainan Province Sunday for a scheduled military exercise with the Russian navy in St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad.

The fleet consists of one destroyer, one frigate, one comprehensive supply ship, ship-borne helicopters and marines.

The drill is part of an annual program which aims to consolidate and advance the Sino-Russian comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, and deepen friendly and practical cooperation between the two militaries.

Code-named the "Joint Sea 2017" drill, it will also improve coordination between the two navies on joint defense operations at sea.

According to consensus reached by the two countries, the two navies are scheduled to hold military drill in waters of the Baltic Sea in late July and then the Sea of Japan and Okhotsk in middle September.

This year's drill aims to jointly carry out rescue missions and protect the safety of economic activities at sea.
A plane of China Eastern Airlines [File Photo]

At least 26 people were injured on a China Eastern Airlines flight, including four in serious condition, after the plane hit strong turbulence en route from Paris to Kunming Sunday.

The injured are being treated in two hospitals in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province after the plane, light MU774, landed safely at 8:50 a.m. Sunday at Kunming Changshui International Airport.

"We felt strong turbulence twice and minor turbulence three times. The process lasted about 10 minutes," said a passenger surnamed Zhang, who suffered a minor injury and is receiving treatment at Yunnan First People's Hospital.

A number of passengers were thrown from their seats and some were hurt by falling luggage, causing bone fractures, scalp lacerations, soft tissue injuries and other light wounds, according to the passengers and hospitals.

"We applauded when the plane landed safely. We feel lucky the plane did not crash," said an injured passenger surnamed Shang.
An expat and her child mix tea leaves with jasmine flowers at the latest session of the "Beijing Salon  Experience Beijing" on June 17, 2017. [Photo/This Month magazine]

Up to 100 expats working in Beijing attended an annual tea party at the city's well-known Maliandao "tea street" on June 17, despite the sweltering heat that had lingered for days.

This tea party was the fourth to be held by the Beijing municipal government and also the latest in the "Beijing Salon  Experience Beijing" series of activities, which also feature Peking opera, martial arts, Chinese kites, and Beijing's local tourism resources, among others.

It highlighted scented tea and floral art, which locals insist is a good match with traditional tea culture. In comparison, previous three tea parties focused more on the various types of tea grown in China, the appreciation of tea sets and the traditional process of brewing different teas.

Tea is a very important part of Chinese culture, so that holding a tea party each year can help popularize it among expats, according to the organizer.

Most attendees were glad to learn how tea is the most popular drink across China, as well as being widely consumed elsewhere in the world, although with different traditions.

The expats agreed that jasmine tea, which is the most popular type in Beijing, was the tastiest. During the activity, they had a chance to make it by mixing jasmine buds and petals with green tea leaves in a 3-10 ratio.

The Ukrainian Embassy in Beijing sent a handful of people, including the diplomats' children, to the tea party. Among them was Consul Lilia Somoilova. She said she had long been interested in Chinese culture. In her understanding, Chinese tea, especially green tea, tends to be plainer, but purer than that produced in Western style.

This simplicity and purity, she said, could also be found in Chinese floral arrangements and traditional Chinese music.
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Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced on Sunday that its aerospace units have targeted the "terrorists" command centers in Syria's Deir ez-Zor with its missiles.

The missile attack aimed to punish the "Takfiri terrorists" for their recent twin attacks in Iran's capital Tehran, the IRGC's Public Relations said in a statement.

The mid-range missiles of the IRGC were launched from the Iranian western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan provinces, it said.

According to the reports, large number of terrorists have been killed in the attacks and a large amount of weapons and ammunition have been destroyed in the attack, the statement said.

The IRGC vowed to respond determinedly to any terrorist attack against the Islamic republic.

On June 7, the Islamic State (IS) militants carried out twin operations in the capital Tehran on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Rouhollah Khomeini.

In the IS attacks, 17 were killed and dozens were injured.
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Chinese Embassy in Laos on Sunday issued a safety warning after a Chinese citizen was shot dead in Lao's central Xaysomboun province.

According to the embassy, a Chinese citizen was shot dead by unidentified persons on Friday in Xaysomboun province, some 130 km northeast of Lao capital Vientiane.

The Lao side is currently investigating the incident, the embassy said.

The Chinese embassy has asked the Lao side to break the case as soon as possible, punish the assailants while taking effective measures to ensure safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Laos.

In its safety warning, the embassy reminds Chinese citizens and institutions in Laos to further improve safety awareness and strengthen security precautions. In case of emergency, Chinese citizens should immediately report to Lao police, and contact the Chinese embassy and consulate in Laos, it said.

Previously on March 1, 2016, a Chinese company in the northern Luang Prabang province was attacked by an unidentified armed group, leaving one Chinese citizen dead and three others injured.

On Jan. 24, 2016, an attack by an unidentified group in Xaysomboun province killed two Chinese people and injured one.

The safety warning by Chinese Embassy in Laos is effective for six months until Dec. 18, 2017.
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British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday afternoon responded to mounting public anger and announced wide and detailed support for the survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy.

May has been under increasing pressure since the extent of the tragedy at Grenfell Tower in West London became apparent.

A blaze at the 24-storey concrete social-housing tower in the Kensington district of the city killed at least 58 people, according to the latest figure from the London Metropolitan Police. The figure is expected to rise.

May said in a statement on Sunday afternoon: "As we continue to respond to the needs of the community, our focus is on ensuring that all of those affected by this unimaginable tragedy get the right support as quickly as possible.

"My government will continue to do absolutely everything possible to help all of those affected through the difficult days, weeks, months and years ahead."

May has been increasingly criticized since Thursday when she visited the disaster scene but talked only to senior officials in charge of the rescue efforts.

A further two visits to the area by May were criticized as inadequate, because she did not publicly meet survivors.

May held a two and a half hour meeting with survivors and community leaders on Saturday morning in her Downing Street home, and the announcement on Sunday of detailed plans to help survivors and residents is a response to that meeting.

In a press statement issued on Sunday evening, the survivors and residents who met May on Saturday said: "We are angry about the inadequacy of the response and the longstanding neglect of our buildings by the council and building management.

"We are grateful to the prime minister for listening to us and for the assurances she has given us but now we need to see real action and immediate results with centralised coordination of the relief effort with residents closely involved.

The survivors and residents also called for the government to take a serious look at the "neglect and chronic underfunding of social housing over decades".

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS

May pledged that each household destroyed by the fire would get 5,500 pounds (about 7045 U.S. dollars) from a five million pound aid fund.

The aid fund would also meet funeral costs, and top up payments for those households with complex or additional needs. The fund under be kept review and will increase if necessary, said May.

In addition May pledged to pay the legal costs of survivors at the public inquiry into the disaster which she announced on Saturday, and that the cost of temporary housing for all survivors would be met.

May also said the government would fund emergency mental health support to the tune of 1.5 million pounds.

CRITICISM OVER GOVERNMENT REACTION

May's response and that of her government has been criticized in media, by the public and by politicians.

The Independent newspaper ran a story saying "Ministers 'ignored warnings on fire safety' before Grenfell Tower inferno".

The government-supporting Daily Telegraph ran a story saying that the cladding used in the refurbishment of the Grenfell Tower in 2016 was illegal if used on buildings taller than 10 meters. Grenfell Tower is 67 meters high.

The main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn called for more action to help survivors with housing. Kensington is the richest part of London, with a significant number of homes owned by the very wealthy kept empty.

"There are a large number of deliberately kept vacant flats and properties all over London, it's called land banking. People with a lot of money but a house, buy a flat, keep it empty," said Corbyn, who called for the local council to requisition the empty homes for fire survivors.

In the Kensington district, Christians held outdoor prayer services in the morning to remember the dead, and Muslim services were held at a mosque in the afternoon in both English and Arabic for Muslims and non-Muslims

The services drew crowds in their hundreds, despite temperatures of 30 degrees centigrade.

Criticism has also been made of the local authority reaction to the fire.

The response of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) the local municipal authority was labelled inadequate and poorly organized by opposition politicians on the council, and national political leaders for the first time called for the resignation of the RBKC leader and his senior management team.

The Liberal Democrat MP Ed Davey said: "There are growing questions for the Conservative-run council, both about the lead-up to the fire but crucially now in the terrible aftermath.

"This is a fiasco built on a tragedy, and the council leader, like the prime minister, does not appear to be getting to grips with the crisis. If he is incapable of doing so, he should go." (One pound = 1.28 U.S. dollars)
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The Cuban business community has reacted to the rollback of American policy toward Cuba by U.S. President Donald Trump in a largely unconcerned manner.

The announcement restricts trade and tourism links between the two countries, but Trump's stance was brushed aside by Cuba's fledgling private sectors.

"I am not afraid. If we have gone through 59 years of crisis, what can be done that has not been done before? We have survived for 59 years and we have survived without them (Americans)," Guillermo Ochoa, a private artisan, told Xinhua.

Ochoa, who runs his business with his family on Havana's St. Francis of Assisi Square, defiantly vowed that "even if this tourism does not come, we will survive."

This feeling was shared by Jose Antonio Perez, owner of La Moneda Cubana, a small 12-seat restaurant, which was the first private dining venue to open in Havana's historical center.

"In my opinion, the impact will not be very large," said Perez, who added that the Cuban economy is not directly linked to the U.S, "our economy is not dependent on the United States, as it was...when the Soviet Union fell."

In a defiant move, Perez is actually planning to expand his restaurant.

While some still feel that the White House's decisions can have negative repercussions, they are not losing sleep. Guillermo Brito, who drives tourists around Havana on board his beautiful 1957 Ford Fairlane 500, is aware of both sides.

"There could be severe repercussions for those of us who work like this. We will see what happens but we must continue moving forward. Whatever happens, happens," he told Xinhua from the wheel of the car.

For now, the streets of Havana are filled with tourists who enjoy the sights of a peaceful and safe city, leading to a feeling of continuity.

"I am not afraid of Trump or of what Trump says. We, the Cuban people, will continue as we want, with Trump or without him," exclaimed Richard Gonzalez, the owner of a horse and cart to give rides to tourists.

Gonzalez, who is part of a cooperative, is keen for Cuba to become attractive for all, but dismisses Trump's move.

David, a U.S. tourist from Virginia, did not hide his sympathy for Cuba, which he has visited twice in two years.

"It is a wonderful place to be. The people are very friendly. I love this island," he explained.

In the first five months of this year, around 285,000 American tourists visited the island, as many as in all of 2016. However, this figure could now drop significantly in the future.
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Power has been cut off in some parts of the great Houston area caused by bird, local power company said Sunday.

A spokesperson with Texas New Mexico Power Company said about 8900 homes and businesses in the southeaster paty of the city are without power.

It is believed the outage is from a bird getting into a substation.

Texas New Mexico Power has crews working in the affected areas and power is expected to be back on by 6 p.m. local time, said the company.
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Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

The building will house the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Center.

The Chinese official was here to attend the opening ceremony of the third health ministers' forum between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) scheduled for June 18 to 21 in Hungary.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of the Chinese nation, it does not only belong to China, but also to the world," she said at the ceremony.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced in May this year to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Hungary, she said, adding that the two governments proposed to deepen cooperation in the field of health, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

She said that this opened up vast space for Chinese medicine cooperation. "It is gratifying to see that Hungary takes the lead in legislating and enacting rules for practicing Chinese medicine in Europe, recognizing and accepting Chinese medicine for national service," Liu said.

"I hope that the two countries' universities will create together a high level platform of Chinese medicine education cooperation to train more Chinese medicine experts in need," she added.

She hoped that "the two countries' medical experts will work together in close collaboration, and take complementary advantages of Chinese and Western medicine, to explore a new model of Chinese and Western medicine to overcome disease."

"I hope that the Chinese medicine center will not only impart knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also show the traditional Chinese culture and philosophical wisdom, and promote the cooperation in Traditional Chinese Medicine between China and Hungary to become a bright 'business card' to deepen the health cooperation between the two countries and to promote cultural exchanges between them," she said.

State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities Bence Retvari also said at the ceremony "This step is not only an important cornerstone for the Hungarian education, but also for the Chinese-Hungarian medical cooperation," adding "Traditional Chinese Medicine is going to play an important role in education, in research and also in healing."

Liu Yandong listened to the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine educational cooperation between the Semmelweis University in Budapest and the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in Harbin in northeast China, and the preparations of the Central and Eastern European Traditional Chinese Medical Education and Training Center to be built. She also visited the Traditional Chinese Medicine classrooms and observed the students' clinical practice.

In 2010, the two universities signed a cooperation agreement for jointly starting a five-year TCM program in order to train Hungarian TCM professionals.

The program follows a "4+1" model, that is, students study the TCM program at the Faculty of Health Sciences, in the Semmelweis University for the first four years, and complete clinical practice at the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in the fifth year.

The first batch of Hungarian graduates have successfully completed their studies and obtained their diplomas in 2016. The two sides renewed their cooperation agreement in 2017.
BEIJING - Rapid development of the capital market is creating opportunities for China to establish world-class investment banks with Chinese characteristics and cultural elements, according to the country's top securities regulator.

Official data shows that the country's securities industry had been steadily progressing with capital and total assets more than doubling in the past five years.

"The figures indicate the industry has played a more important role in raising capital, optimizing resource allocation and serving the real economy and investors," said Liu Shiyu, head of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, at a securities conference this weekend.

Liu noted the securities industry should focus on its main business, actively participate in the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, highlight innovation and guard against risks in the pursuit of world-class investment banks.
By Jing Shuiyu in Beijing and Tian Xuefei in Harbin | China Daily | Updated: 2017-06-20 06:48

Technicians work at the Liaoning section of a high-speed railway in Northeast China's Liaoning province, June 17, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

New high-speed line to connect Yekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk

China Railway Group Ltd, an infrastructure construction company, will build a high-speed railway in Russia connecting the country's third-largest city Yekaterinburg with Chelyabinsk, as the Chinese company's overseas business keeps expanding.

The project will involve a total investment of $2.5 billion, according to a memorandum of understanding signed between the Chinese company and Ural Highway during the Fourth China-Russia Exposition held recently in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin.

The train is expected to run at a speed of up to 250 kilometers per hour, according to Russian media outlet Sputnik.

The high-speed rail link is expected to cut the current journey time between two cities to approximately one hour and 10 minutes from five hours, according to China Railway Group Ltd.

"It is a promising project with huge potential. We believe it will boost the region's economic development, and benefit local people after its completion," said Zhang Xian, vice-president of the company.

"The experience of the Moscow-Kazan railway positions us well in the industry. We are ready to make full use of our cutting-edge technology in this project."

The high-speed rail link has great potential, as it will be part of the high-speed transit corridor passing through Berlin, Moscow, Astana and Beijing, Boris Dubrovskiy, governor of Russia's Chelyabinsk region, was quoted as saying by Sputnik.

In April, China's first overseas high-speed rail project was launched in Indonesia. It was the first time China allowed a State-owned company to get fully involved in an overseas project in terms of design and construction, according to the National Development and Reform Commission, the country's top economic regulator.

Bao Rongfu, a transportation analyst with Nanjing-based Huatai Securities Co Ltd, said China Railway Group's overseas orders are expected to "sustain rapid growth", as the Belt and Road Initiative advances.

In 2016, the company signed overseas contracts worth a record 102.5 billion yuan ($15.04 billion), up 49.6 percent year-on-year, according to its annual report.

In the first quarter this year, it reported that newly signed overseas contracts reached 15.58 billion yuan, up 131.8 percent from the same period last year. During the same period, its net profits increased 15.32 percent year-on-year to 2.62 billion yuan.

Zhou Huiying in Harbin contributed to the story.
No 10 Indonesia

Indonesian women purchase cookies at a street stall in Jakarta on June 23, 2016. Cookies, among all the goods sold to residents in China, are the most favored by Chinese consumers. [Photo/VCG]

Cross-border e-commerce could break down trade barriers and bring win-win development. The sale of 280,000 latex pillows last year produced in Thailand on Tmall International, a platform for Chinese to buy overseas goods, is a perfect example. The Southeast Asian country's farmers gained three to four times more revenue from selling pillows than selling raw rubber.

Here are the top 10 most active e-commerce exporters involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, based on trade volume on Tmall International last year.
An employee works at a JD.com logistic centre in Langfang, Hebei province.[Photo/Agencies]

BEIJING - Chinese internet users splurged on the mid-year online shopping spree on Sunday.

While November 11, or Single's Day, is the largest online shopping festival in China created by Alibaba's Tmall, June 18 ("6/18") shopping festival was launched by JD.com, Tmall's arch rival.

Other companies soon jumped on the bandwagon and began to offer special offers to get more customers.

On June 18, JD.com reported its first hour sales more than doubled from the same period last year. Tmall pocketed over 100 million yuan ($14.71 million) seven minutes after its opening. Another Chinese e-commerce heavyweight Suning.com saw its orders more than quadrupled from a year ago.

According to iResearch, a Beijing-based consultancy, while demand is high, Chinese consumers tend to be rational by caring more about quality instead of price.

The top five items on the shopping list of JD.com consumers are cell phone, air conditioner, flat panel computer, laptop and baby formula. Consumers are more selective in quality.

Kaola.com, a cross-border e-commerce platform, found consumers are becoming more critical in selecting big names, but were less interested in popular best-sellers.

Cao Lei, director of China E-Commerce Research Center, said with consumer upgrade going on in China, e-commerce market has shifted from "price war" to responding to the demands of the affluent and sophisticated middle class.

Putting all those purchases into consumers' hands is a huge task.

To make fresh food reach consumers in the shortest period of time possible, Tmall's cold chain service is operating around the clock. Its daily delivery of fresh food totals near 500 tons.

By using smart warehouse, it takes only three minutes to move a parcel out of the depot through automated assembly lines.

E-commerce platforms are using drones to make speedy deliveries. At this year's "6/18" shopping festival, Suning.com is using drones to get packages directly to shoppers in rural villages.

JD.com uses augmented reality and virtual reality to offer interactive shopping experiences and also employs robots, driverless cars and drones for deliveries.

Xu Lei, JD Group's chief marketing officer, said retail sales will be driven by changing consumer habits and technology upgrades.

The mega-spending spree came as China's economy is slowing down as the world's second largest economy is transitioning from dependence on export and investment to consumer spending.

Growth of the property development investment slowed in May for the first time since November, but retail sales grew 10.7 percent year on year in May boosted by strong online sales, signaling continued consumption strength.

China is the world's largest online shopping market, with about 467 million online consumers spending about 26.1 trillion yuan last year, up 19.8 percent year on year.
At the closing ceremony of the 2017 Silk Road International Expo in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, Samba dancers from Brazil interact with their audience. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - The Belt and Road Initiative is spurring myriad business activities and trade in Northwest China's Shaanxi province. The province's role in the Initiative is also growing.

For instance, early this month, Serbian businessman Alexander Stankovic, general manager of a winery, spent over 25 hours traveling from his Belgrade home to Xi'an in the province to attend an expo on the Belt and Road Initiative.

Stankovic had to transfer flights in Moscow and Beijing before reaching Xi'an, the easternmost point of the ancient Silk Road.

At the 2017 Silk Road International Expo from June 3 to 7, Alexander's display area attracted plenty of visitors and many Chinese clients are considering cooperation with the winery.

The expo was a chance for Serbia to introduce Chinese people to its traditional culture, tourism resources and products, according to Rasim Ljajic, deputy prime minister of Serbia.

In Almaty, Kazakhstan, a China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Demonstration Park, put together by an agency of Shaanxi province, is catching the attention of local people. Kazakhstan is one of the countries and regions participating in the Initiative.

"We planted 24 kinds of agricultural products here, including wheat, corn and beans, in 2016. Our new wheat is over 82 percent higher in yield than the local ones," said Ma Jing, an official with Shaanxi Yangling Agricultural Demonstration Zone, the cradle of Chinese agriculture.

Since 1997, Yangling has also been home to the High-tech Agricultural Industrial Demonstration Zone. It operates eight agricultural cooperation zones worldwide.

Shaanxi's contributions to the Initiative come in many forms.

For instance, it had a role in the new Mombasa-Nairobi railway line in Kenya built by China. On May 31, the 480-kilometer railway opened. Local train driver Alice Mugure Gitau was among the seven female drivers who received training at Baoji in Shaanxi.

Gitau was the driver of the first passenger train on the railway, which created 46,000 jobs for local people.

In China, a 2,300-km high-speed railway line linking Baoji to Lanzhou city in Gansu province is about to open. It connects some important cities along the ancient Silk Road, and is ready to connect to railways in central and western Asia and Europe, said Guo Junqi, an engineer with China Railway Group.

On May 31, the World Apple Industry Center was launched in Shaanxi, a famous production base of the fruit in China.

New opportunities are arising for the young in Shaanxi. A Russian student plans to set up a trading firm and import Russian products for sale in the province.

Similarly, a student from Thailand hopes to open a Thai restaurant in Yangling after graduation.
Qiu An, a trainer at Shenzhen Metro, shares rail vehicle maintenance tips with two local colleagues in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Shenzhen Metro is exporting urban rail management expertise to world

Shenzhen Metro Group Co Ltd, a State-owned urban railway operator in Guangdong province, is exporting its management expertise and its model of urban transportation service to economies participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Its first project involves two light railway lines totalling 34 kilometers in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

Established in 1998, Shenzhen Metro is the first Chinese metro firm to go global.

China Railway Group Ltd was contracted to undertake the project construction work in 2014.

Shenzhen Metro will be responsible for managing, operating, maintaining and training local staff in the first 41 months.

"The light rail transit will operate 16 hours per day, moving over 100,000 passengers on average," said Yuan Hulin, head of overseas business at Shenzhen Metro. "This will greatly relieve traffic jam on local streets."

On April 25, Shenzhen Metro and China Railway Group teamed up again for an urban railway system in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. For this project, Shenzhen Metro will act as a consultancy service, sharing its expertise in urban rail transportation.

The 13-km line with 12 stations is expected to open in 2018. The contract is worth about 89 million yuan ($13 million) with a service period of 16 months.

Shenzhen Metro will be responsible for compiling an operating system guide, preparatory consulting as well as comprehensive testing and adjusting of signals, drainage, communication and other facilities.

The project will help the company to gather experience in international consulting and form a professional integrated service system, said Lin Maode, president of Shenzhen Metro.

The company recently became one of the largest shareholders of China Vanke Co, one of China's largest property developers.

It is trying to deploy its expertise in realty-related operations in overseas projects, for the development and management of commercial properties on railway assets like station premises and track-side vacant plots.

According to its annual report, the firm's four real estate projects in China opened to the market in 2015 and realized sales revenue of 11.9 billion yuan.

Shenzhen Metro signed an agreement in November 2016 to build a suburban railway system in Ramadan, a satellite city near Egypt's capital Cairo.

The company will operate the railway and train staff for two years. It will undertake maintenance for 10 years and oversee integrated development of commercial land along the line.

"There are many land resources to develop along the railway lines and an increasing demand to establish more commercial facilities in such areas," Yuan said. "Our business model offers comprehensive utilization of land resources."

Shenzhen Metro is also exploring more overseas projects in Nigeria, Israel and other economies participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

"Our strategy is to establish market-oriented mechanisms that entail minimum investment on overseas projects and pre-empt losses," said Yuan.

To deliver guaranteed quality on overseas projects, the company limits costs to contracted prices, he said.

"Currently, infrastructure construction has a dominant role, but the demand for related services will be tremendous in future," said Zhao Guangbin, senior economist of Shenzhen Qianhai PricewaterhouseCoopers Business Consulting Services Co Ltd.

Infrastructure projects such as airports, railways and nuclear power stations need people to operate and manage them after construction. So Shenzhen Metro's focus on services makes eminent sense, he said.

But challenges will ensue, he said. "Ninety percent of employers would be local residents. So culture, language, customs - they would need attention. So would key aspects like security."
New mechanisms are needed to resolve disputes related to outbound investments of Chinese companies, experts in M&A, or mergers and acquisitions, said.

That's because cross-border M&A deals are rising among companies in the economies involved in China's Belt and Road Initiative, they said.

The dispute resolution mechanism is at present almost entirely in the hands of Western countries, which will affect the implementation of the Initiative, given the growing number of commercial and non-commercial disputes, said Ren Qing, partner at the Beijing-based Global Law Office.

GLO is the first Chinese law firm to provide legal services in a wide range of cross-border and domestic M&A's.

"Most of the cross-border investment in the countries and regions taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative is in infrastructure projects, which have long investment cycles and require large amount of money, so disputes will likely increase," said Wang Guiguo, director of the International Academy of the Belt and Road Initiative, while speaking to Hong Kong-based Chinese language newspaper Wen Wei Po.

"It is imperative to set up a disputes settlement organization in China, just like the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes," Ren said.

The ICSID is an international arbitration institution established in 1965 for legal dispute resolution and conciliation between international investors. It is part of, and funded by, the World Bank Group, headquartered in Washington.

The Belt and Road Initiative has focus on infrastructure, trade, investment and intellectual property protection. In such a vast multilateral economic partnership, it is hard to avoid controversy, said Wang.

"Proper resolution of disputes will enhance the positivity of governments and enterprises which take part in the Initiative."

The idea of a new disputes settlement mechanism in China for cross-border transactions is currently a hot topic in academic and legal circles, according to Ren.

However, Chinese enterprises should try to avoid disputes, and plan their investment path properly to minimize losses, said Simon Li, a counselor at Anjie Law, a legal firm.
Anbang sales staff explain the insurer's products to visitors at the Beijing Internatonal Investment and Wealth Management Expo. [Photo/China Daily]

Last month, 37 Dutch insurance agents landed in Beijing to visit Anbang Insurance Group and learn about modern methods and applications of technologies such as data analysis in their business.

Associates of Dutch insurer Vivat, the 37 agents traveled at the invitation of Anbang, which had bought out the former from state-owned Dutch banking group SNS Reaal for 150 million euros ($169million) in 2015.

Their visit is proof that Chinese companies' overseas M&A's, or mergers and acquisitions, are not all about expansion and profit. They are also about sharing knowledge, resources, relationships and technologies.

Michael Bieger, CEO of Apple Tree, a Dutch financial advisory, was one of the 37 visitors. He said his colleagues have all worked at the same building with the endowment insurance group of Vivat for 17 years. But since last year, they began to learn more about Anbang and established business cooperation with the latter's staff.

Bas de Voogd, who runs a 100-year-old insurance broking firm in the Netherlands, said Vivat has turned into a better enterprise, in terms of human resources and team work, after Anbang took it over. "Vivat is changing itself and we've more faith now in doing business with it."

Improvement is also showing in Vivat's financial performance. Net profit reached 159 million euros in 2016, up 50 percent year-on-year. Its solvency margin ratio, a measure of insurance companies' capability to repay the debts, increased from 161 percent in 2015 to 175 percent last year.

Ron van Oijen, CEO of Vivat, told media that though costs and expenses grew due to organizational restructuring, the company benefited from a closely knit, more active team.

Edwin Grutterink, property insurance manager of Vivat, said the company learnt financial innovation from Anbang and now optimizes many of its insurance products.

Using big data technology and analytics, product pricing has been customized for different customers, compared with a rather fixed model in the past, he said.

"I showed the dynamic pricing model to the supervisors of the insurance industry in the Netherlands. They showed much interest in it and said it will pioneer financial innovation in the industry," he said.

After the takeover by Anbang, Vivat relocated its managers to Amstelveen where all employees could work together to improve efficiency, he said.

Hans Visser, Vivat's endowment insurance manager, said, initially there were doubts about the future of Vivat after Anbang's takeover, but now there is only "positive feedback".

"We should learn innovation not only from the West but the East," Visser said.

In the past two years, Vivat has appointed many experienced professionals from various insurance agencies. They know the market well and can communicate directly with corporate customers, he said.

"Last summer, many agents asked whether the investment from China was long term or short term. So, we brought them here (to China)."

Anbang Insurance, founded in 2004, began overseas M&A's in 2014. First, it invested $1.95 billion to buy Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York.

It then purchased Belgian insurance company Fidea and the Netherlands' based Delta Lloyd Bank Belgium in the same year.

In 2015, it picked up a 57 percent stake in Tongyang Life Insurance of South Korea.

Tongyang's insurance premium reached 3.7 trillion won ($3.29 billion) from January to June in 2016, up 90.7 percent year-on-year, Anbang said in August 2016.

Last year, it bought Strategic Hotels & Resorts from US' Blackstone Group for $6.5 billion.

The Beijing-based insurer owns assets across the United States, Europe and Asia worth more than 1.9 trillion yuan ($0.28 trillion) and has 35 million customers worldwide, according to its website.
The "Made in China 2025" area at the China International Patent Fair 2016 in Dalian, Liaoning province. Premier Li Keqiang introduced the Internet Plus and Made in China 2025 policies to redirect China's manufacturing model in 2015. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Experts focus on middle-income trap and green concerns

Countries, like companies, have to change their business models as world circumstances change.

In the early 2000s, China's development model was based on low-wage manufacturing combined with high savings and investment rates. The very success of that model in drastically raising living standards has now led the Chinese government to adopt an ambitious set of policies to upgrade China's industry, to escape the so-called middle-income trap and to support a green environment.

At a meeting of the State Council, China's Cabinet, in May 2016, Premier Li Keqiang said of the country's industrial business model: "China is already a big manufacturing nation, but far from a manufacturing power.Integration of manufacturing and the internet is an inevitable path of modern industry."

Justin Lin Yifu, director of the Center for the New Structural Economics at Peking University, in a recent article in the Journal of Chinese Economic and Business Studies, outlined the theoretical rationale for China's industrial policy:

"The middle-income trap is a result of a middle-income country's failure to have faster labor productivity growth through technological innovation and industrial upgrading than high-income countries. Industrial policy is essential for the government of a middle-income country to prioritize the use of its limited resources to facilitate technological innovation and industrial upgrading."

Huge capabilities

China has enormous manufacturing capabilities. According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, China's output ranks first in the world in 220 out of 500 major types of industrial products. It also has world-leading infrastructure, which puts it in a different class from other middle-income countries.

But China's comparative advantage no longer lies with low-wage mass manufacturing. According to a study by the Boston Consulting Group, manufacturing costs in China rose from about 86 percent of the US level in 2004 to about 96 percent in 2014.

"China is being pressured from both sides," an unidentified MIIT official told Xinhua. "Advanced economies such as the United States, Germany and Japan have all formulated policies supporting further development of their own manufacturing. At the same time, emerging economies such as India and Brazil are catching up with their own advantages."

Over the past 15 years, China's real wages have gone up eightfold. This is a good thing in that it raises the living standard of the people, but it forces companies to find higher value-added products.

During the same period, many Western manufacturing companies, particularly in Germany, Japan, the UK and the US, invested heavily in becoming automated and efficient. Meanwhile, fracking technology cut energy costs in the US.

"The government knows clearly that manufacturing is the existing competitive advantage. For the past few years, people have been saying that China's manufacturing is big but not that strong. Given the scale, the government is trying its best to upgrade it to a new shape. They want to do it fast because time is very constrained. In five years, 10 years at most, we will see a new structure of leading countries. The fourth industrial revolution is already going on," said Zhai Xin, associate professor at Peking University's Guanghua School of Management.

The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) concentrates on a set of policies to create an "optimized modern industrial system" that can deal with this new environment.

"With a focus on carrying out deep structural adjustment and revitalizing the real economy, we will move ahead with supply-side structural reforms, foster new industries while upgrading traditional ones, move faster to put in place a new modern industrial system that has strong innovative capabilities, provides quality services, is based on close collaboration and is environmentally friendly."

The Internet Plus and Made in China 2025 policies introduced by Premier Li in 2015 aim to redirect China's model by using technology to move traditional industries to higher value-added products and to invest in creating new capabilities in 10 new high-tech industries.

Financing the upgrade

Recognizing that industrial upgrading is key to the future economy, the government is putting big money behind its policies, but it is also striving to ensure a high level of market input.

In August last year, the government announced the creation of a $30 billion venture fund especially targeted to boost industrial technology. Somewhat smaller funds have more specific targets.

According to the research company Merics, the Advanced Manufacturing Fund will insert capital worth $3 billion into industrial technology upgrading. The National Integrated Circuit Fund has $20 billion and the Emerging Industries Investment Fund holds almost $6 billion.

In addition, local and provincial governments will setup funds to support industrial upgrading in their regions. By comparison, the German government is devoting only $225 million, and German companies plan to spend about $12 billion over the next decade on the so-called Industry 4.0 upgrading, according to Experton Group, a business consultancy.

The government funds seek to guide market investors, not to provide majority State funding. According to Chen Shaozhi, a senior journalist who heads the Made in China 2025 team at Xinhua News Agency's Economy and Nation Weekly: "The government may lead the industrialization fund, but it is very commercialized. The government puts in a little money. Then the banks, investment companies and venture capital funds all can invest together.

"This type of guidance is similar to the way the government has encouraged private investment in high-tech Silicon Valley-like areas such as Zhongguancun in Beijing. The main goal in traditional manufacturing is to help the entrepreneur make money and survive in the market.

"Everyone, government officials and businesspeople, understand that industry has to upgrade. If you don't upgrade, you will be expelled from the market. If you upgrade, it may bring some hurt. But, if you don't upgrade, the only question is whether you die early or die late."
Workshop of Red Collar, a brand owned by Qingdao Kutesmart, has been transformed from a traditional garment factory into a high-tech unit capable of making customized products. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Garment manufacturing is usually thought to be the prototypical low-wage industry. Companies in the industry move to wherever the labor is cheapest.

Qingdao Kutesmart Co in East China's Shandong province is proving that by using the right technology and a smart business model, it's possible to be highly competitive in a traditional industry, even as wages rise.

The "smile curve", proposed in the early 1990s by Stan Shih, the founder of Acer Inc in Taiwan, says that most of the profits from a product are captured by designers, brand owners or retail channels, not by the manufacturers. By contrast, Zhang Daili, chairman and founder of Kutesmart, argues that by using direct contacts with customers and efficient production processes, manufacturers can get most of the profits.

Through its Red Collar and Cotte brands, the company's "customer-to-manufacturer", information-intensive and integrated process boosts profits by providing highly customized business suits below mass market off-the-shelf costs, cutting out the middlemen.

A customer experience center of Cotte, a brand owned by Kutesmart, in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Customers can either go to one of the company's brick-and-mortar measurement sites or give detailed measurements online. They can also choose such things as the type of cloth, styles and stitching. This personalized information is then fed into Kutesmart's automated precision cutting machines, then to the embroiders, joiners, ironers and others. The suit is electronically tracked until it is ready for the customer, seven days later.

According to research by Lu Yinghan of Jinan University Management School, Kutesmart's profits increased by more than 25 percent per year in 2014 and 2015. By contrast, public companies in the clothing industry saw average revenue fall by 2.6 percent and net profits fall by 3.6 percent in those years. The company is privately held and does not disclose profit information directly.

Kutesmart employs about 3,000 people, paying wages approximately 20 percent higher than the industry average, according to He Wei, a company representative in the branding and public relations department.

Started in 1995, the company was at first a traditional clothing manufacturer. Zhang, its chairman, worked for many years developing what the company calls its "source data engineering" or SDE process, which links custom orders to a finished product.

Zhang Daili, Kutesmart's founder, personally checks measurements of a custom-made suit at a finishing line. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"SDE deeply integrates industry and information, using production process networking and intelligent management to achieve synchronous production of personalized products. It is data-driven, on-demand, zero-inventory, with a flat management structurea very lean production process," said He. The company uses radio frequency identification tags to track products through the process.

In a company video, Zhang said: "In 2003, Chinese were struggling for razor-thin margins from processing orders from New York. Red Collar used to be a traditional enterprise group. As contradictions between production and the market increased, the only way out was to open up a new path by ourselves. We began to consider the transformation from mass production to personalized customization. It lasted 12 years and cost hundreds of millions. Based on deep integration of informatization and industrialization, we formed a complete internet-of-things system and made it our core value."

Chen Shaozhi, a senior journalist who heads the Made in China 2025 team at Xinhua News Agency's Economy and the Nation Weekly, stresses that the company's success is based on its appropriate use of information systems.

"Kutesmart uses typical machines, but they do customized production at the same time. Some companies might think about using robots for this role. Kutesmart did not reduce its worker count, but enhanced its profit margin a lot. This model is very appropriate for China's current situation," Chen said.

Expert tailors at Qingdao Kutesmart factory verify custom specifications received through online channels. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Kutesmart has created another core line of business in which it advises other manufacturers about the SDE production process.

"At present, we've contracted pilot upgrading plans with nearly 100 enterprises in jeans, clothing, hats, shoes, furniture, casting and electrical appliances," He said.

In the company video, Zhang Yunlan, Kutesmart's president and daughter of the founder, said: "Around 2014, the inventory in China's clothing market was conservatively estimated to be worth about 400 billion yuan ($59 billion)enough to cover three years of sales in the Chinese market. But Kutesmart managed to have zero inventory. When other garment enterprises were suffering because of high inventory, Kutesmart achieved rapid growth year-on-year.

"Behind these good numbers is the unique internet-industry model of this enterprisemanufacturing personalized products by means of industrialization, efficiency, and cost-reduction."
JEJU ISLAND - The 18-month-old Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has won acclaim for its good work from representatives of all over the world at its Second Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors held through Saturday.

The multilateral development bank (MDB), initiated by China and supported by a wide range of countries and regions, has been playing a unique role in promoting development while showing great creativity and potential.

Promises delivered

"In January 2016, at the Bank's inauguration, I made a pledge that we would ensure that this institution operates as a 'lean, clean and green' organization," said Jin Liqun, president of AIIB.

"Eighteen months on, I can report to you that the management and the staff have been translating these principles and aspirations into reality," he said.

To date, AIIB has approved some $2.49 billion in financing for 16 infrastructure projects in nine countries. Twelve of the projects were co-financed, while four were standalone projects prepared by the bank.

Jin made particular reference to the power transmission project in Bangladesh, which will help bring affordable and reliable electricity to more than 12 million rural people while achieving energy saving equivalent to an annual reduction of 16,400 tons of CO2.

"This project demonstrates the AIIB's commitment to development, to helping the world's underprivileged and to the environment," he said.

The bank has also approved three new members - Argentina, Madagascar and Tonga during the annual meeting, bringing the total membership to 80.

"Broad support from both our regional and non-regional membership manifests a firm confidence in AIIB."

"We appreciate very much the way the bank has begun. We are pretty confident that in the future years, the bank would expand its membership and also its portfolio for the good of this region," said Philippe Baudry, director-general of the Treasury of France.

"The bank has done a lot. Given to its young age, I would give it a good score of more than 90 points out of 100," said Hamad Albazai, deputy finance minister of Saudi Arabia.

Forging new path

"AIIB is now the only multilateral development bank in the world that the developing countries dominate with a combined total of over 60 percent of the shares. It has been playing a unique role in global governance," said Zheng Quan, director general for Policy and Strategy of AIIB.

For Sir Danny Alexander, vice president and corporate secretary at AIIB, the charm of AIIB lies in its mission to invest in infrastructure, which supports sustainable economic development in Asia and is also good for the whole world as Asia has the most people in the world, most of economic growth in the world and also a lot of growth potential.

According to Zheng, part of the bank's charm also comes from its forging a new path, including providing financing to both sovereignty-backed and non-sovereignty backed infrastructure projects, and investing in countries across all income levels which gives the bank more flexibility.

The bank has also established a non-resident board, which, while giving the board more autonomy and responsibility, is more cost-efficient, according to Zheng.

The new mechanism and business models are based on learning from the experiences and lessons of other multilateral development banks.

"We are quickly moving upwards on the learning curve," said Jin.

Jin also stressed that AIIB, as the "newest member of the family of multilateral financial institutions and development banks," has been working with its "sister MDBs."

"AIIB is an important multilateral development bank as it tries to fill the gap between demand and supply in infrastructure and to mobilize more money from the private sector to promote sustainable growth in Asia," said Tadashi Yokoyama, head of External Representation Office for Asia of the African Development Bank.

"We are looking forward to working with AIIB to co-finance good projects in the African continent," said Yokoyama.

To build a better future

AIIB, while winning acclaim from all over the world for its good work and potential, is also conscious that it still has a long way to go.

The annual meeting of the Board of Governors is AIIB's supreme decision-making body in which chief delegates of members discuss directions and make major decisions on the bank's management.

This year's meeting, with the theme "Sustainable Infrastructure," saw the release of the bank's strategy in the energy area, which voiced strong support for its members to transit toward a low-carbon future.

"We are committed to the principles of sustainable development in the conceptualization, design, and implementation of our investments," Jin said at the annual meeting.

Other strategic focuses of the bank include promoting cross-country connectivity and mobilizing more money from the private sector.

The bank announced on Thursday three new projects, including its first equity investment, which, according to D.J. Pandian, vice president and chief investment officer of AIIB, is another significant milestone and will enhance the bank's potential to source and fund high quality, private sector projects.

"We will realize our grand vision of a future of shared benefits across Asia and beyond. We have every reason to be optimistic about our ability to accomplish what we have set as our goals," said Jin.
JEJU ISLAND - The China-initiated Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) won achievements in a short time of just one and a half years despite challenges facing the international development bank, South Korea's deputy finance minister said.

"AIIB already generated achievements in one and a half years of its establishment," Song In-chang, deputy minister for international affairs at South Korea's Ministry of Strategy and Finance, told Xinhua Saturday on the sidelines of the AIIB's annual meeting.

The second annual meeting of the AIIB's board of governors lasted for two days through Saturday in South Korea's southern resort island of Jeju.

The first meeting was held in Beijing last year. The third annual meeting was scheduled to be held in India in June 2018.

The AIIB, officially launched in January 2016, is a multilateral development bank initiated by China and supported by a wide range of countries and regions, which provides financing for infrastructure improvement in Asia.

The deputy minister said the 18-month-old AIIB achieved what other multilateral development banks (MDBs) took four to five years to achieve.

To date, the AIIB has approved $2.49 billion in financing for 16 infrastructure projects in nine countries. Twelve of the projects were co-financed, while four were standalone projects prepared by the bank.

"AIIB's progress is very fast. AIIB President Jin Liqun did well," said Song.

Despite the lack of experience of the newest international financial institution, Song said the AIIB has an advantage of making a fast decision by the decision-making body.

He said the South Korean government will actively support corporate infrastructure projects linked to the AIIB by creating a firm networking with AIIB officials.

Meanwhile, Song held a separate press conference with local reporters on Saturday, saying South Korea's hosting of the AIIB's first annual meeting outside the Beijing headquarters had a great meaning to the country.

President Moon Jae-in, who took office on May 10, made a congratulatory address at the opening ceremony of the AIIB annual meeting on Friday, making a debut into the international event.

South Korea is the fifth-biggest shareholder of the AIIB which owns about $100 billion of subscribed capital, including some $20 billion in paid-in capital.

The deputy minister said South Korea planned to share its technology, experience and finance of infrastructure with other AIIB members to contribute to the environmentally-friendly economic development in Asia.

Among the 80 approved members, 75 delegations attended the AIIB's second annual meeting along with 46 officials from multilateral development banks such as the Asian Development Bank.

"It was a very high participation rate," said Song. In addition to the delegations and MDB officials, central bankers and over 20 finance ministers attended the second annual meeting.

The number of AIIB members was raised to 80, including 57 founding members, as the board of governors approved Argentina, Madagascar and Tonga as new members during the business session on Friday.
Daryl Guppy, president of the Australia China Business Council's North Territory office, discusses the benefits his country has received from the Belt and Road Initiative. He was positioned at the roundtable of the Silk Road International Forum in Xi'an, Northwest China's Shaanxi province, on June 4. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The president of the Australia China Business Council's North Territory office said he believes the Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by Chinese president Xi Jinping, could bring a lot of new business opportunities to the whole world.

Daryl Guppy said he found a range of new opportunities for business development in health, education, agriculture and tourism, while leading an Australian business delegation to participate in the Silk Road Expo in Xi'an, Northwest China's Shaanxi province.

"We signed a Northern Territory bottle water distribution agreement, got invitation to advise on set up water bottle factory, signed agreement for Australian health product and medicine, and got an invitation to discuss the delivery of remote health services," he said.

"We've also had several requests for legal services to help the amount of Chinese investment in the Northern Territory."

"We arranged investment visits to the Northern Territory for education and apartment investment."

The Australian delegation to China's Silk Road Expo in Xi'an has further confirmed and developed cooperation with the Silk Road International Chamber of Commerce, Guppy added.

He said he was impressed by the wide range of countries participating in the Silk Road Expo, and the great number of new business opportunities brought by the Belt and Road Initiative.

Guppy added he was also impressed the Belt and Road Initiative was not well understood in some western countries.

"In the long run the benefit of the Belt and Road Initiative is in the expansion of trade and the development of harmonized trade environment to the world," he said.

"The opportunities come from the opening of the capital account and internationalization of RMB."

Guppy added this was also critical difference between the modern version of the Silk Road and the ancient version.

"The ancient Silk Road was mainly about trade in physical goods, and the modern Belt and Road Initiative was based on the increasingly free exchange of capital and services," he said.

The internationalization of RMB and advanced payment mechanism, such as WeChat and AliPay, further enable a more effective investment because capital was not at risk of currency fluctuations, Guppy said.

"Investment has no longer to be transferred into a third intermediary currency," he said.

"The issuance of RMB denominated bonds and investment instruments underpin the Belt and Road Initiative and economic success."

"This can also help to manage and diversify risk and works both ways for investment out of and into China."

Guppy added it was unwise for businesses to turn their back on the wide variety of opportunities made available by the Belt and Road Initiative.

"We need to look beyond and realize the winners of the Belt and Road Initiative also include bankers, infrastructure investors, consultants, professional services firms, equity fund managers and companies that are exporting to China," he said.

"We have improved relationships with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) so we can assist to explain the Belt and Road Initiative to Western organizations in the future."

"The Belt and Road Initiative confirmed a more sophisticated and complex trade link between Australia and China, which was recognized in the detail by the Australia China Free Trade agreement," Guppy said.

"It breathes new life into the cooperative trade between China and the rest of world, and the rest of the world to China," he said.
HARBIN - As China is adding investment to revive the "rust belt" in its northeastern provinces, Russia is also looking to boost the economy in its Far East, which brings tremendous opportunities for the two geographically adjacent regions, experts and government officials said at a high-level forum at the 4th China-Russia Expo which closed Monday.



Andrey Ostrovsky, deputy director of Institute of Far Eastern Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences, said the Russian Far East covers 36 percent of the country's territory, but has less than 5 percent of its population. It is rich in natural resources but poor in infrastructure, similar to China's northeastern region.



"Strengthened cross-border cooperation has become a feasible alternative to help promote regional development on both sides," said Ostrovsky, who is also vice chairman of Russia-China Friendship Association.



He said the development of Siberia and the Far East is one of the most complicated tasks for the Russian government, and integrating these areas into the Silk Road Economic Belt building is an important way for them to share the benefits of cooperation and development with Asia-Pacific countries.



Over the past years, the development of the Far East has increasingly become a national strategy and top agenda for the Russian government, which has established a ministry to take charge of it.



Alexander Galushka, minister for the Development of the Russian Far East, said Russia and China have shared interests in the development of the region. The cooperation between the two countries in developing it largely contributes to the pairing of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative with the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union.



"The Russian Far East is adjacent to China's northeastern provinces, but has limited land transportation infrastructure. More overland cross-border infrastructure is required to make full use of the geographic advantages in commerce and trade between the two areas," the minister said.



The two countries have made progress in infrastructure cooperation. Currently, they are building the Nizhneleninskoye-Tongjiang railway bridge and Blagoveshchensk-Heihe road bridge, which will provide China with convenient access to seaports and the Russian Far East with an additional cargo base. Galushka said a "China commercial service center" is planned to assist Chinese merchants doing business in the area.



According to the minister, about 20 joint commercial projects are being implemented in the Russian Far East, involving agriculture, petrochemical engineering, raw materials, logistics and tourism, and another four are under discussion. The total investment of those projects are estimated at about $6 billion.



"There is huge potential for commercial cooperation between China and Russia in the Far East. If fully tapped, the aggregated investment is expected to top 60 billion dollars," the minister said.



Vladimir Miklushevskiy, governor of Russia's Primorsky Territory, said the territory has the longest stretch of Russia's land border with China, which is a competitive advantage in further building business ties with the neighboring country.

The governor said another 300 billion Russian rubles will be invested to upgrade the international transport corridors "Primorye-1" and "Primorye-2" connecting the Chinese provinces of Heilongjiang and Jilin with Primorsky.



"The expanded corridors will further boost investment in the near future and the upgrade is worthwhile," he said.



Sergey Paltov, consul general of Russian Consulate-General in the city of Shenyang, said Russia has noticed the increasing enthusiasm of Chinese investors toward the development of the Russian Far East area.



Customs clearance will be streamlined starting from August, along with more convenient visa on arrival and e-visa measures, to facilitate Chinese investors entering Vladivostok and other parts of the Russian Far East for economic, tourism and cultural cooperation, the consul general said.
Internet celebrities hold a live broadcast in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, ahead of World Sleep Day in March. [Photo provided to China Daily]

China's internet celebrities are leveraging their popularity among young Chinese followers to make money like never before, creating an industry with real investment value, a new industry report has found.

According to the report published in Shanghai on Friday by iResearch Consulting Group, as of May the ranks of internet celebrities on Sina's Weibo with more than 100,000 followers had increased 57.3 percent from a year ago.

The report also found that the total number of their followers surged 20.6 percent to 465 million year-on-year.

Additionally, it showed that 61.4 percent of the online celebrities' followers were male. That contrasted with data released by China Internet Network Information Center recording a Chinese netizen male to female ratio of 52.4 to 47.6.

The iResearch findings indicated that the mobile internet is penetrating into lower-tier cities, with about 54.1 percent of the followers coming from small cities. In contrast, netizens from first-tier cities were least attracted by online celebrities, making up 18.5 percent of their fans, lagging second-tier cities at 23.1 percent and third-tier cities at 23.5 percent.

The web celebrities followers extended from mainland to Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, whose residents accounted for 2.5 percent of the total fan base.

Consultancy iResearch, which provides online audience measurements and consumer data in China, said the report followed extensive analysis on current conditions and prospects for the cyber celebrity related economy.

According to Zou Lei, co-president of iResearch, internet celebrities are creating an industry with real investment value after years of development of the sector.

Through posting words, pictures, voices, video clips and live steaming associated with brands, Zou said online celebrities were turning their fame and influence into real cash.

Daily transaction volumes of e-commerce related directly to online celebrities exceeded 54.7 million yuan ($8.0 million) in the second quarter this year, representing 106 percent year-on-year growth, according to data from Weibo.

The Chinese celebrity value listing, which aims to provide thorough analysis of Chinese cyber influencers, was jointly published on Friday by Weibo, Harper's Bazaar and iResearch. The partners said they believed that by establishing a set criteria for evaluation of the sector, the online celebrity industry could develop in a more healthy and orderly way, and evolve into a complete industry chain.

The listing was compiled with comprehensive data and an index that ranked among other factors, communications skills, interaction with fans, the ability to cash in and influence followers, e-commerce gross merchandise value, online celebrity endorsements and income from fans.

"We have noticed that more than 90 percent of the top 100 online celebrities on Weibo have signed contracts with professional agents, or a multichannel network," said Cao Zenghui, vice-president of Weibo.

Monthly active users of Weibo, a Chinese Twitter-like service, reached 340 million in the first quarter of this year, and daily active users reached 154 million, according to Cao.

The report said it believed that cooperation between internet celebrities and platforms like Weibo would boost profits.

It said that with more capital flowing into the industry, the competition for resources and platforms would become fiercer, requiring more diversified content and presentations to satisfy the demand of followers while fending off rivals.

"The online celebrity economy in China is still in its infancy with huge growth potential," Zou said.

"In the past few years, we have seen internet celebrities offering more diversified, personalized and professional content, with the influence of multichannel networks growing."
A ground crew member leads a China Eastern Airlines cargo plane to land at Yantai Penglai International Airport in Shandong province. [Photo/China Daily]

China Eastern Air Holding Co has sold part of its freight business to four private firms.

The State-owned parent company of China Eastern Airlines revealed the news on Monday as it stepped up efforts to diversify its holdings.

"The move to sell part of Eastern Air Logistics Co will help to transform it into a comprehensive logistics provider," said Lin Zhijie, an aviation industry analyst and columnist at carnoc.com, one of China's largest civil aviation websites.

China Eastern signed a capital increase agreement and shareholder document in Shanghai with Legend Holdings Corp, Global Logistic Properties Ltd, China Deppon Logistics Co Ltd and Chinese real estate developer Greenland Holdings Corp.

China Eastern Air Holding will retain a 45 percent stake in Eastern Air Logistics Co, while Legend Holdings, GLP, Deppon and Greenland will hold 25 percent, 10 percent, 5 percent and 5 percent, respectively.

The remaining 10 percent will be held by Eastern Air Logistics' employees, it said. Detailed financial terms have yet to be disclosed.

Lin said that enabling employees to hold shares in the freight company was a highlight of China Eastern Air Holding's diversification policy.

"It will help to tie the economic interests of employees to the company's profits," Lin said. "Employees will consider more about the company's benefits when they make decisions."

The deal means up to 2.26 billion yuan ($332 million) will pumped into the freight business, according to the terms of the agreement. The asset-liability ratio of Eastern Air Logistics will also be lowered to 74 percent from 87.86 percent.

"Logistic firms of major airlines have been experiencing losses, and China Eastern hopes to revitalize the business through this plan," Lin said.
The car loan program launched by banks and car financing companies attracts potential buyers in Nanjing, Jiangsu province. [Photo/China Daily]

More people are buying cars with loans in China, according to a J.D. Power survey, making car financing a growing source of revenue for car dealers in the world's largest auto market.

The percentage of new vehicles purchased with loans rose to 64 percent from 57 percent in the luxury segment and to 57 percent from 49 percent in the mass market segment.

Car financing generated 10 percent of dealers' revenue in 2016, which was just 2 percent in 2011, according to the company.

The findings were based on a survey conducted by J.D. Power China of 2,377 dealers, representing 47 vehicle brands across 84 cities throughout China between December 2016 and March 2017.

"Compared with the United States, auto financing in China is still relatively underdeveloped," said Winston Xue, general manager of financial services at J.D. Power China.

"But it is growing significantly in China, and the young are more inclined to purchase cars with loans."

Statistics from the China Auto Dealers Association show that auto finance had a penetration rate of 81 percent in the US in 2014.

Xue said the situation presents an opportunity for lenders and dealers to offer products that meet the needs of a growing population of car buyers looking to finance their purchases.

The rise has also become a key driver of Chinese car dealers' overall satisfaction with their lenders, according to the J.D. Power survey.

Specifically, carmakers' financial companies are doing a better job than banks. Out of the top nine financing institutions with which dealers are most satisfied, only two are banks.

Having competitive financial products, including easy application processes, is the top criteria for dealers to select a retail credit lender, according to Xue.

Overall, carmakers' financial companies continue to lead with a market share of 65 percent, up 7 percent from 2016.

Chinese and international carmakers had established 25 auto finance institutions in China as of the end of 2015, with their combined revenue totaling 900 billion yuan ($132.15 billion), Wang Xin, CEO of consulting firm Frost & Sullivan China told China Business News.

Xue said: "As more auto finance companies enter the market and offer diverse products, consumers will have more choices and dealers' satisfaction is expected to increase. That's a promising 'three-win' prospect for consumers, dealers and lenders". He said dealer satisfaction has been on the rise for two consecutive years.
A Peugeot model demonstrates automatic parking at an intelligent vehicle competition in Shanghai. [Photo/China Daily]

China's automobile industry has founded a strategic alliance, hoping to spur research and developing in intelligent and connected vehicles, while national guidelines are on the way.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is expecting intelligent vehicles to rise up and lead the industry's future development, after the success of the new energy vehicle sector was somewhat undercut by fraudulent subsidy claims.

"Intelligent and connected vehicles will be the breakthrough point for the country's automobile industry to transform and upgrade," said Miao Wei, minister of industry and information technology, in his speech last week in Beijing during the founding ceremony of the China Industry Technology Innovation Strategic Alliance for Intelligent and Connected Vehicles.

"The world is entering into a phase of fierce competition in intelligent vehicles. It has strategic significance in shaping the industrial system, promoting innovation, improving traffic safety and cutting energy consumption and emissions," he said.

A total of 98 carmakers, universities and institutes have joined hands in the alliance led by the Society of Automotive Engineers of China and the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

The alliance was designed to serve as a think tank for the country's intelligent and connected vehicle industry and to transfer new technologies into mass production. The core mission of the alliance includes promoting crossover collaboration, improving national industrial standards and encouraging sustainable development.

Miao noted that becoming intelligent and connected is the future for vehicles, so crossover collaboration among sectors is necessary for the trend.

Thanks to breakthroughs in wireless communication, vehicle users now spend 91 hours connected to the internet during their journeys each year, so cooperation between the carmakers and telecommunication service providers is a must, according to Kurt Lehmann, chief technology officer of Continental.

He also said: "Artificial intelligence is a key factor, but it will work after a big data sharing platform is established for automakers and suppliers".

The German automotive technology company has been working with China Unicom, one of the largest Chinese wireless communication groups, in the world's largest auto market. Continental just entered into strategic cooperation this month with Baidu to work on automated driving and connected vehicles.

Baidu, one of the biggest dotcom companies in China, is the only information technology company among the nine deputy councilors of the strategic alliance for intelligent cars that includes FAW Group, Changan Automobile, Tsinghua University and five research institutes.

The alliance believes China has profound potential in intelligent and connected vehicles, as it has strong policy support from the government and a solid foundation of information technology with such companies as Huawei, Tencent and Baidu at the helm. The ministry is drafting its guidelines for the development of intelligent cars, with the intention of establishing a coordination system for the sector. The next step will be improvements to design, laws and regulations, core technology, infrastructure and cyber security.
Terrence Curtin, CEO of TE Connectivity Ltd, took the company's helm in March 2017. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Terrence Curtin leads TE toward B&R-related opportunities

The transcontinental virtual interview via a conference call with Terrence Curtin, CEO of TE Connectivity Ltd, was so smooth and clear that one almost ignored we were on either side of the Pacific Ocean, in Pennsylvania and Shanghai respectively, whose time zones were 13 hours apart.

But then, that's what TE Connectivity doesits top-quality connectors and sensors help to seamlessly connect long distances in the virtual realm.

"We are not a brand you get to hear (about) every day, but our products play a key role nevertheless," said Curtin, 48, who took the TE helm in March 2017.

Registered in Switzerland, TE's business in connectors and sensors generated $12.2 billion in global revenue in fiscal year ended Sept 30, 2016, and $1.9 billion in operating profit.

It designs and makes the components, which are used by a variety of industries, from telecom and automotive to aerospace and energy.

TE's products and solutions help make cars move faster while consuming less energy, and enable better and frictionless network transmission.

Curtin joined the company in 2001. Back then, it was known as Tyco Electronics, the electronics arm of conglomerate Tyco International Ltd.

He has since taken on a number of roles, including overseeing the company's financial matters. He aided the company's spinoff and listing in 2007, oversaw mergers and acquisitions, and led the company's most profitable connectivity and sensor business.

"Independence means going from being something big to controlling your own destiny. We are allowed to make our own decisions, and I've become a completely different person, to be more responsible to my 75,000 employees," he said.

TE grabbed the top share in connectors' markets in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, according to a November report by consultancy Connector Supplier.

Curtin has not yet served in a China-specific role, but it is a market too big to ignore. TE's sales in China have seen meteoric growth. The China market now accounts for almost 20 percent of TE's global revenue. The figure is projected to rise to 25 percent or more in the next five years, he said.

"When I first landed in Shanghai's Hongqiao International Airport almost two decades ago, TE had only one plant and some 100 engineers. Today, TE has almost 15 facilities and 2,000 engineers, serving not just the China market but global markets as well," he said.

According to Curtin, TE can be best described as an "enabler". Its products are not visible everywhere, but they power solutions and technologies that people rely on and take for granted.

For instance, TE helped a Chinese network equipment provider to improve the overall performance of its products, by increasing the network communications bandwidth to 400G from 100G (It's a measurement of data transfer rate per unit time). China's telecom infrastructure is counted among the best in the world.

In the rail market, TE is working with a mix of local partners, including Chinese railway and metro developers, to harmonize connectivity across different high-voltage power systems.

This is thanks to its strategic presence in harsh-environment products, which are found inside vehicles, and in factory-floor equipment and appliances.

Acquisitions played a big role in beefing up that portfolio, and helped drive harsh-environment products to reach almost 80 percent of the company's total sales. Last year, TE bought out Intercontec Group to help bolster niche market offerings in the harsh-environment category, specifically for factory automation customers.

But the most promising sector in China is transportation, he said. Government support for electric vehicles has given fresh momentum to TE's business, thanks to stricter emission requirements and high demand for efficient energy-saving solutions.

For example, TE's solutions can help manage the flow of power in and around the vehicle battery, and outside its pack. Its charging solutions also allow customers to meter their e-vehicle's electricity consumption, and communicate data via smart charging cords and inlets.

The projection that China is set to mass-produce millions of e-vehicles in 10 years, including hybrid and pure electric models, heartens TE. "After all, our mission is to enable a safer, more sustainable, more productive and more connected world."

Curtin said TE would harness the opportunity in China. He is aware the country is shifting from an energy-guzzling, investment-led economy to one that is more sustainable and innovation-driven.

He draws encouragement from the Belt and Road Initiative, which he said presents huge opportunities for the likes of TE that provide connectivity products and sensors to sectors like energy, infrastructure, railway and information technology.

"The many infrastructure projects related to the initiative will enhance connectivity across Asia, Europe and Africa. I believe companies like TE will have more opportunities to participate in the initiative and contribute to its success," he said.
A local artist produces a painting of Shaxi, a township in Jianchuan county, Yunnan province. HOU LIQIANG/CHINA DAILY

Awareness is growing of the need to save age-old settlements that embody traditional lifestyles

Once, all the houses in Zhoucheng village were traditional properties, with three rooms and a screen wall forming a courtyard, an age-old architectural characteristic of residences of the Bai ethnic group.

Now, just four houses in the village, home to 2,500 households in Dali city, Yunnan province, still maintain the traditional values, while the others have either lost their traditional structures and decor as a result of renovation work, or have been demolished to build new houses. The process took just 10 years.

To make matters worse, some newly built houses are just concrete boxes that lack any local cultural characteristics, according to Duan Shusheng, deputy director of the village committee.

Zhoucheng is just one of hundreds or even thousands of traditional Chinese villages that have seen traditional residences fading away, while many face a far worse situationthey are disappearing, as younger, able-bodied residents move away to seek work in big cities, leaving just the elderly behind.

China, the world's second-largest economy, faces challenges in the protection of traditional villages, which are believed to be key repositories of 5,000 years of culture and tradition. In 2012, the central government launched a campaign to protect them, and so far, 4,153 of the most representative villages full of rich cultural relics have been listed and protected as National Traditional Villages.

Although, Zhoucheng was listed as a National Traditional Village in 2012, the destruction of its old residences happened around 2007.

As living standards rose, a growing number of villagers wanted their homes to be upgraded. There were no bathrooms in the old houses, but some villagers wanted them, along with larger kitchens, Duan said.

However, it's more cost-effective to build new houses than renovate the old ones; it costs 30,000 yuan ($4,400) to adapt old houses to include a bathroom, but only 1,000 yuan a square meter to build a new house, he added.

Some families demolished their old houses to build new ones, mainly because there wasn't enough space in the old houses to accommodate the growing number of family members. Many said they would keep their old houses as long as they could obtain land on which to construct new ones. However, the village couldn't offer them the land, according to Duan.

Though dismayed by the situation, Duan is happy to see a growing awareness among residents of the need to protect traditional architecture.

"More villagers now choose to build new houses in the traditional style, and some only use traditional materials," he said.

Zhoucheng is one of 615 traditional villages in Yunnan on the national list.
Zhang Shuhua works to repair a local temple. HOU LIQIANG/CHINA DAILY

Zhang Shuhua has been building traditional houses since he was 14. However, the low wages for such hard work mean most of his peers have quit the profession, and few younger people are taking it up.

For the 52-year-old resident of a village in Shaxi township, Jianchuan county, Yunnan province, carpentry was only a means of earning a living and before 2002, he felt little sense of pride in the work. He certainly never imagined that his skills would win him the honor of being called a great master in the renovation of ancient buildings by UNESCO officials.

Zhang was one of five men apprenticed to his master, but he is the only one still doing the job: "The wages are too low. Some people quit just two or three years after they started to learn. The others quit when they got married as a result of the economic pressure of supporting their families."

Because his master was famous locally, there was plenty of work before the 1990s. "Fewer people, however, wanted to build traditional houses constructed from earth and wood. That resulted in a rapid decline in the number of carpenters. Many used their skills and turned to woodcarving to make a living," Zhang said.

Once, there were more than 20 carpenters in his village of almost 1,200 people. Now there are just three.

In 1993 and 1994, people could make 150 yuan ($22) a day from logging, but Zhang could make only 12 yuan a day as a carpenter. As a result of the financial pressure, he quit his job and spent two years cutting down trees.

In 1984, Zhang's master quit at age 54. In 1988, Zhang advertised for apprentices, but only received three applications. Two of the apprentices quit, so only one remains.

Opportunity came knocking after an institute in Switzerland and the local government established the Shaxi Rehabilitation Project to renovate Sideng, a village in the town.

The renovation work presented Zhang with difficulties he had never experienced before: "It's quite difficult to renovate old buildings as requested by the experts. Before, we would remove a wooden pole from a building if it needed renovating.

The experts, however, asked us to do the work while keeping items in their original positions because they were afraid that it would damage other parts of the old buildings to remove them."

When UNESCO awarded its 2005 Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation to the Shaxi Rehabilitation Project, the UN officials praised Zhang's work. When they came to visit the town, they called him "a great master in the renovation of ancient buildings".

"I have never been so proud of my job as I am now," said Zhang, whose hair is turning gray.

He now has a new apprentice, one he never expected his 24-year-old son Zhang Sicai, who left Shaxi when he was 16 and worked in various regions, including Beijing and the provinces of Guangdong and Sichuan, before returning home in 2015.

"There are few young people learning the craft now, and I want to pass my skills on," he said.

According to Zhang Sicai, when he became an apprentice, his father changed from a gracious father to a strict master, and once even criticized him in front of more than 30 workers.

However, the criticism made Zhang Sicai more determined to continue: "Now I have decided to learn the craft, I want to learn it well. I am determined to surpass my father."
Shanghai watchdog presents draft of safety regulation for public comment

Shanghai's food safety watchdog has proposed tightening the rules for online food ordering and delivery services, including making it mandatory for a food provider to have a physical restaurant location.

A draft of revised regulations for the industry, drawn up by the city's food and drug administration, has been made available for public comment until July 13. It comes at a time when the use of food delivery websites and apps is booming, especially among the younger generation.

Data from BigData-Research in Beijing show the transaction volume of China's takeout food market jumped in the first three months of this year by 25.3 percent over the last quarter of 2016 to 84.3 billion yuan ($12.4 billion).

As of April, online food ordering and delivery services had been used 194 million times.

Food safety and quality remain the top issues for consumers, surpassing concerns about discounts offered by vendors, delivery speed and after-sales service, the company said in a recent report.

In Shanghai, more than 60,000 unlicensed online food vendors were shut down last year, according to Xu Jianchun, director of the city's office for the campaign against intellectual property infringements and counterfeit goods.

The food safety watchdog's proposed new rules include requiring employees in the industry to display health certificates in public and to make sure such information is accessible.

In addition, containers used to deliver food should not be used for other purposes, and dishware and kitchenware should meet hygiene standards.

If the food being processed and delivered is found to violate food safety rules, supervising departments can intervene.

Major food ordering and delivery apps, including industry leader Ele.me, declined to comment on the prospect of tightened rules on Thursday, saying they are still studying the proposals.

Wang Zhi, a food delivery worker at Ele.me, said: "Since the existing rules were implemented last year, the company has strengthened management processes, especially in terms of requiring every one of us to have a health certificate.

"The process of obtaining the certificate is complex," Wang added.

Some residents said on Thursday that they hope the watchdog can do more.

"I got a stomachache after eating food ordered via apps several times," said Shen Siwen, a 21-year-old university student in Shanghai. "This new rule strengthens supervision of online platforms, but the supervising departments should also be held accountable when food safety issues arise. These departments need to assume joint liability."

Jin Jiamin, an employee of a State-owned company, said: "I have found bugs in food when eating at a restaurant. So the requirement of asking online food providers to have a physical store does not necessarily mean food safety issues will be solved. More important is that the regulations are well implemented."

Tian Shengjie in Shanghai contributed to this story.
After four decades of relying heavily on overseas markets, Liu Haiyan has now turned to the domestic market for her primary customers.

Liu's company, Shandong Lufeng Co, in Anqiu, Shandong province, processes more than 1,000 varieties of food products, including frozen meat, cooked meat and frozen vegetables. It exports to Japan, the United States and Europe.

She said her biggest advantage over domestic competitors is that her products conform to US, Japanese and European standards.

"We use the same standards and the same factories to produce the same products for domestic markets," said Liu, the company's general manager. "Our overseas markets are stable, but the domestic market has expanded in the past three years. People are paying more attention to quality of lifeand the quality of products they buy."

The company sold 2 billion yuan's ($294 million) worth of products last year, of which 1.4 billion yuan came from the domestic market.

Liu said local governments' efforts to create demonstration areas to elevate the overall quality of agricultural products ensure that the company's products meet foreign standards.

Shandong province was certified on Friday by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantinethe top quality watchdogas China's first demonstration province for the safety of food and agricultural products for export.

The province sold 107.5 billion yuan's worth of agricultural products in overseas markets last year, accounting for 25 percent of the country's total agricultural exports, according to the provincial government.

The province has ranked first in the country for agricultural exports for 18 consecutive years.

More than 99.95 percent of agricultural products the province exported met the standards required by the destination countries last year.

To date, the national administration has certified 291 national-level demonstration areas across China to promote the overall quality of agricultural products.

In the demonstration areas, a series of measures, including enhanced cooperation between different government departments and strict controls on the use of pesticides, are enforced.

"Every week, people from the local quality supervision and inspection authorities come to my farm to inspect whether my plants meet the requirements in terms of using pesticides," said Yu Haiyang, a farmer in Jiaojiazhuang village in Anqiu, a county certified as the first national-level demonstration area for the safety of exported agricultural products.

"Without strict regulations from local authorities on the use of pesticides, we would have to establish our own to ensure quality of our farms, which would not only cost more but has the potential to be polluted by other people's farmland," Liu said.

Zhong Yuhua, general manager of Qingdao Fusheng Foodstuff Co, said: "Usually products meeting the standards of countries like Japan, the US and the European Union have easier access to the domestic market, as those countries have higher requirements on food quality."

Zhong started to explore the domestic market in 2014.

He predicted it will account for 40 percent of the company's total sales this year.

Wang Mingjian contributed to this story.
China's parking lot of tomorrowa multistory garage that uses robot "valets" to take vehicles to empty spaceswill open in Nanjing next month, according to the technology company behind the project.

The facility, built as part of a new shopping mall near the city's Confucius Temple, covers 2,400 square meters and has 57 parking spaces and two robots.

Drivers will park on the first floor, and the robotsflat platforms on wheelswill transport the cars to the second floor using elevators, according to Yu Lei, general manager of the Jiangsu office of Shenzhen Yeefung Automation Technology Co, which developed the smart system.

The machines are 4.8 meters long, 1.8 meters wide and 0.35 meters tall, and can carry vehicles weighing up to 2.5 metric tons.

"The first floor of the garage consists of robots, elevators and a control system, while parking spaces are situated on the second floor," Yu said. "Drivers will leave their cars on the first floor, where the control systems will examine the size and weight of each car."

Robots will follow routes calculated by the system and park the cars in specified spaces using laser alignment equipment.

When drivers return to collect their cars, they will wait on the first floor as the robots locate their vehicle, reversing the trip.

Drivers can use a smartphone app to book parking spaces and collect their cars, with the whole parking process taking about three minutes, Yu said.

"Compared with regular garages, the smart garage covers about 40 percent less space and requires fewer workers," he said. "In fact, the garage only needs one worker on the first floor to guide drivers. The second floor requires no lighting or ventilation equipment because the robots can follow the computer's orders in the dark."

Maintenance and labor costs will also be greatly reduced, Yu said.

Ji Feng, technical director of the company, said: "We spent three years researching and testing the smart garage system. A single robot can manage up to 50 parking spaces."

"Technically, using our control system, if a garage had enough space, 100 robots could work at the same time without any collisions."

Ji said more smart garages will be established in Chinese cities, adding that construction of the country's second smart garage will get underway soon in neighboring Zhejiang province.

Guo Jun contributed to this story.
Prosecutors have indicted some employees of two companies connected to Interpol "red notice" criminal suspect Guo Wengui, judicial sources said Saturday.

A procuratorate in Dalian, Liaoning province, filed charges on Friday against several executives and employees of Beijing Pangu Investment Co on suspicion of abuse of power and misappropriation of funds.

The same day, Kaifeng People's Procuratorate, in Henan province, initiated a public prosecution against Guo's Henan Yuda Real Estate Co and its employees, on charges of defrauding loans and bills of acceptance.

The procuratorate in Dalian found that in 2008, the wife of Tianjin Huatai Holding Groups then-chairman Zhao Yun'an approached Guo Wengui to arrange Zhao's bail.

With Guo's help, Zhao was granted bail, and he promised to transfer Huatai's assets to Guo, giving him control of the company.

In July 2008, without calling a board meeting, Guo directed Qu Long, a defendant in the case and former Huatai executive, to transfer more than 400 million yuan ($58.74 million) to companies Guo controlled.

In 2012, Guo sought to keep that money by persuading Gao Song, Ma Nan and Cheng Xiuhua, all former senior Beijing Pangu Investment Co managers, to forge agreements and memorandums and file a false civil court action.

Guo transferred liabilities worth more than 400 million yuan to Zhengzhou Haohang Co, which has no loan repayment capacity, so he could illegally pocket the money.

Qu is accused of using his posts to misappropriate a huge amount of corporate funds, and the other three defendants are accused of abuse of power for assisting Guo's illegal seizure of Tianjin Huatai's capital.

In the other case, the procuratorate in Henan province found that in 2008, Guo directed Ma Cheng, Zhang Xincheng, Guo Lijie and Xiao Yanling, all former Henan Yuda Real Estate Co senior staff members, to fraudulently obtain loans and bills of acceptance totaling 1.5 billion yuan from seven banks by setting up shell companies and fabricating contracts and projects.

Part of the money was used to clear debts of Yuda, which Guo controlled, and the rest was transferred to Beijing Pangu Investment Co or overseas. More than 213 million yuan has not been recovered.

In the other case, the procuratorate in Dalian found that three Beijing Pangu Investment Co staff members are suspected of destroying accounting evidence on Guo Wengui's instructions.

Guo Wencun, Ma Cheng and Sheng Ruigang were found to have destroyed accounting documents, books and reports of Beijing Pangu international hotel between 2008 and 2013, to prevent discipline inspectors from detecting corruption.

Last week, three former members of Beijing Pangu Investment Co were given prison sentences for fraudulently obtaining loans and foreign exchange.

Senior executive Lyu Tao was sentenced to two years and three months in prison, and Xie Honglin and Yang Ying both received two-year prison sentences suspended for three years, by the People's Court of Xigang District of Dalian on Friday.

The company was fined 245 million yuan.
Leung Chun-ying, Hong Kong's outgoing chief executive, has urged the city to grab the opportunities presented by the Greater Bay Area - part of the national strategy behind the Belt and Road Initiative - and leverage its unique advantages to speed up development over the next decade.

"I'm very optimistic about the future of Hong Kong, in terms of both economy and social development," he said. "China's reform and opening-up and the national strategy to develop the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area are two wings that can help Hong Kong fly high."

The bay area covers 56,500 square kilometers and comprises 11 cities - the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions and the cities of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Zhongshan, Dongguan, Huizhou, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing in Guangdong province.

"As the region has a population of 67.7 million and annual GDP of $1.3 trillion, it will definitely help Hong Kong overcome the bottlenecks of its economic development, including a severe lack of land resources and a shortage of labor," said Raymond Tam, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs.

In April, Leung and other senior Hong Kong government officials paid a three-day visit to construction sites in the Greater Bay Area.

Hong Kong will give full play to its competitive advantages while tapping into the complementary strengths of its partner cities, said Leung, who on July 1 will step down to make way for incoming chief executive Carrie Lam.

With the completion of several giant infrastructure projects, including bridges, highways and bullet trains connecting the city with neighboring regions on the mainland and Macao, he said Hong Kong will see a blueprint to play a crucial role as the "super coordinator" between the mainland and the world.

"Our advantages are obvious and unique under the principle of one country, two systems. Our services, including legal services, enjoy preferential access to the mainland market under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement," he said.

Leung said Hong Kong also is a highly international society, and the international community is familiar with its legal system and the common law.

"In short, our trilingual ability and international network make us an ideal partner in legal services for both the mainland and international companies," he said. "We can help foreign enterprises grow into the mainland market, and partner with mainland firms in expanding into foreign markets, including those along the Belt and Road."

Last year, the SAR's government set up a Belt and Road office to map out strategies and policies, helping local companies and professionals in reaching out. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority's Infrastructure Financing Facilitation Office, also set up last year, has helped companies invest in infrastructure projects.

According to Yvonne Y.P. Choi, commissioner for the Belt and Road office, the expansion of trade, investment and infrastructure construction along the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road will surely lead to a rise in demand for legal services, including for contract negotiations, contract management and dispute resolution.

In fact, footprints of Hong Kong professionals and enterprises can already be found in Belt and Road countries. Rimsky Yuen Kwok-keung, the secretary for justice, has been promoting Hong Kong's legal and dispute resolution services around the world, visiting such countries as South Korea, Australia, Thailand and Dubai, Leung said.

A $200 million professional services advancement program launched in November also supports Hong Kong professionals in enhancing exchanges and cooperation with counterparts outside the city.

"Some mainland companies are expanding their businesses in the Belt and Road countries. Many are well-known for their infrastructure construction projects, while Hong Kong has unique experience in project and finance management as well as professional services," Leung said.

"In other words, in many of these nascent markets, when we venture out, we are not alone," he said, adding that Hong Kong also has rich experience in cultural and educational exchanges and among localities and NGOs with countries along the region.

"The new regional economic cooperation and integration project initiated by the central government could be the last train for Hong Kong to take to realize the structural economic transformation it desperately needs. I hope we won't miss it," Leung said.

Jiang Chenglong contributed to this story.
Photo taken on June 20, 2016 shows Sunway TaihuLight, a new Chinese supercomputer, in Wuxi, Jiangsu province. [Photo/Xinhua]

WASHINGTON - China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the US government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.
WASHINGTON -- China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

CHINA'S HOMEGROWN SUPERCOMPUTERS

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the US government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

SWISS SYSTEM "REALLY A SURPRISE"

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the US Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.

"This is the second time in the 24-year history of the TOP500 list that the United States has failed to secure any of the top three positions," the TOP500 organizers said in a statement.

The only other time this occurred was in November 1996, when three Japanese systems captured the top three spots.

"Nevertheless, the US still claims five of the top 10 supercomputers, which is more than any other nation," they said.

Fu called the upgraded Swiss system "really a surprise," saying that "it reflects the increased investment in large-scale supercomputers in Europe."

AMERICA'S STRONG STRENGTH

"Although the US dropped out of the top three, it still has strong strength in high performance computing," Fu told Xinhua. "If everything goes well, we could see two US systems with a performance of 200 to 300 petaflops in the next rankings at the end of the year."

Just days before the TOP500 announcement, the US Department of Energy said it has awarded AMD, Cray, HP Enterprise, IBM, Intel and NVIDIA a total of 258 million US dollars in funding to accelerate the development of next-generation supercomputers.

"Continued US leadership in high performance computing is essential to our security, prosperity, and economic competitiveness as a nation," US Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said in a recent statement.

The immediate goal of the United States is to develop at least one exascale-capable system by 2021, which will be at least 10 times faster than China's Sunway TaihuLight.

"Global competition for this technological dominance is fierce," the US Department of Energy asserted. "However, the US retains global leadership in the actual application of high performance computing to national security, industry, and science."

In addition, the latest list showed that the United States leads the pack in the total number of TOP500 systems, with 169, while China is a close second with 160. Both countries lost share compared to six months ago, when they each claimed 171 systems.

Besides the United States and China, the most well-represented countries on the list are Japan, with 33 supercomputers, Germany, with 28, France, with 18, and Britain, with 17.

Overall, aggregate performance on the TOP500 rose to 749 petaflops, a 32 percent jump from a year ago.

Such an increase, though, is well below the list's historical growth rate of about 185 percent per year, said the organizers.

"The slower growth in list performance is a trend that began in 2013, and has shown no signs of reversal," they said.

When it comes to companies making these systems, the US-based Hewlett-Packard Enterprise claims the number one spot with 143 supercomputers. China's Lenovo is the second most popular vendor, with 88 systems, and Cray is in third place, with 57.

There are three other Chinese companies in the vendor list: Sugon (No 4 with 44 systems), Inspur (No 6 with 20 systems) and Huawei (No 7 with 19 systems).

The Top500 list is considered one of the most authoritative rankings of the world's supercomputers. It is compiled on the basis of the machines' performance on the Linpack benchmark by experts from the United States and Germany.
XICHANG, Sichuan - Communications satellite Zhongxing-9A, which was launched aboard the Long March-3B carrier rocket from southwest China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center at 12:11 a.m. Monday, has failed to enter the preset orbit.

Abnormal performance was identified during the third phase of the rocket launch, said the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) Monday.

The exact reason for the failure is under investigation and related parties are taking measures to address the problem and send the satellite into the correct orbit.

The solar panels and communication antennae, however, have been deployed and the satellite system is operating under normal conditions, according to the CASC.
BEIJING - China's Tianzhou 1 cargo spacecraft completed its second docking with Tiangong 2 space lab at 2:55 pm Monday, after flying around the space lab.

Tianzhou 1 separated from Tiangong 2 on Monday morning and then flew around the space lab, according to the China Manned Space Engineering Office.

Tianzhou 1, China's first cargo spacecraft, was launched on April 20 from south China's Hainan Province, and it completed automated docking with the orbiting Tiangong-2 space lab on April 22.

The two spacecraft completed their first in-orbit refueling on April 27 and their second in-orbit refueling on June 15.
BEIJING - President Xi Jinping on Sunday sent a condolence message to his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa over the severe forest fires in Portugal.

In his message, Xi said that he was shocked to learn that the fires in Portugal have caused heavy casualties and property damage. He extended heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to the victims and their families on behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and himself.

Xi said he believes that the Portuguese people will surely defeat the disaster and rebuild their homeland under the leadership of the Portuguese president and government.
An employee works on the production line at Jiaxing Join Intelligent Equipment Co. Photo/China Daily

Editor's note: In the run-up to the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress, China Daily will report on a number of key projects of national importance that showcase the country's great improvements in crucial fields, such as technology and innovation.

A small county in East China shows that size has no bearing on economic growth

Decades ago, Jiashan county was primarily known for its agriculture and wood industries. It also has a reputation for making quality yellow wine whose sweetness makes it distinctly different from those made elsewhere in China.

However, the county's business landscape was transformed in 1993, when the Jiashan Economic and Technological Development Zone was founded to drive growth. Science and technology have since become the cornerstones of the county's success.

In 2013, Jiashan, in the eastern province of Zhejiang, was singled out as China's only county-level demonstration zone for scientific development, and today its key industries include precision machinery and electronics.

On Sunday, President Xi Jinping said county-level governance is crucial to the modernization of the national system of governance, and Jiashan has taken full advantage of its location and set up a good example for scientific development, according to reports on China Central Television.

Xi visited Jiashan in 2004 and 2005, when he was Party chief of Zhejiang, and he paid another visit in 2008 when he was vice-president.

Developmental pillars

One of the pillars of Jiashan's economic development is automation. According to official data, the county has spent 20 billion yuan ($3 billion) to help 450 companies implement automation initiatives during the past three years, resulting in productivity rising by 12.3 percent.

The high-tech manufacturing sector has also been identified as a major player in the county's development plans.

Jiaxing Join Intelligent Equipment Co is a good example of the sector. Founded in 2009, the company supplies state-of-the-art precision equipment to semiconductor manufacturers around the world.

Strong government support enabled the company to grow from a five-man operation to a 110-person-strong enterprise, according to Chen Yilun, general manager of Join Intelligent's machine vision business unit.
Legal firm executive Henry Nassau says despite a slowing economy, the Chinese mainland market is growing fast, and mainland companies are looking for better growth rates and opportunities beyond, thus generating huge inbound openings for overseas law firms. Parker Zheng / China Daily

Legal firm executive Henry Nassau says one of the secrets fueling the company's growth is its ability to nurture strong ties with clients through thick and thin. He tells Duan Ting the story.

Henry Nassau, chief executive officer of global specialist law company Dechert, is a fervid believer in the art of trouble-shooting, satisfied that stronger bonds and rapport with clients would result from times of dilemma.

Shrugging off the challenges confronting law firms, he says "we need a crisis to build up trust, and people only grow when they get scars".

"Clients would like to have a relationship with someone they can talk to and trust, and exchange ideas with," he tells China Daily.

The Philadelphia-based company sees the core of its business as shaping up close links with its customers who would take critical issues to Dechert and allow themselves to be partners in thrashing them out.

"Everyone's talking about the difficulties law firms are facing, and the pressure, I think, comes partly from law services providers, accounting firms and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence," says Nassau.

He deplores the fact that technology disrupts business, like Google's disrupting the news media. Dechert, on its part, has to make sure that good technologies can support the company's internal communications and fine tools to gain better access to materials in various cases, and that it can keep up with their customers' fast pace in technology.

According to Nassau, their strategy is to grow in major capital markets and cities worldwide, with their biggest thrusts on New York, London and other cities that meet the legal services in areas like capital markets, private equity, lifestyles, funds, complex litigation and investigation.

The Chinese mainland, irrefutably, can't be left out of the picture.

"China is part of the world we have to be a part of," he asserts, noting that although the economy is relatively slowing down, the mainland market is getting more sophisticated, and companies are looking for better growth rates and opportunities beyond, thus generating huge inbound openings for Dechert.

Chinese outbound investments, he's convinced, are propelled by the need for growth at rates faster than the domestic market, plus the desire to invest in stable governments with established capital markets for lower cost of capital.

Nassau will continue to play its part in helping Chinese mainland companies go abroad and spread their tentacles. "Where China is interested in expanding, we're happy to be part of that in terms of either capital formation or representing outbound Chinese companies."

Eye on mainland

Dechert began its involvement in China almost a decade ago, setting up itself in Beijing in 2008. Its core businesses there include international arbitration, property, securities, private equity, and mergers and acquisitions. The group has added 13 lawyers in Hong Kong and Beijing, including four partners, so far this year.

Existing major clients include Shanghai Shenda Co Ltd, Nanji E-Commerce Co Ltd, Huadong Medicine, China National Petroleum Corporation, Join Me Group (HK) Investment Co Ltd, China Financial Services Holdings Ltd and Talent Property Group Ltd.

"We're looking at this time to beef up our presence on the Chinese mainland. We also plan to open a branch in Shanghai. If we could find a good capital market team or a private equity team, we would love to do it in line with our business needs," says Nassau.

As for Dechert's perceived share of the mainland market, Nassau is playing his cards close to his chest, saying he doesn't have an exact figure. What he's certain is that they now have some 20 employees in Hong Kong and close to 10 in Beijing. Globally, they have more than 900 lawyers - about 50 in Singapore, Beijing and Hong Kong and the rest scattered across Asia.

He gives the thumbs-up for the China-led Belt and Road Initiative, saying that anything that promotes trade and commerce among countries is good for international law firms. While Dechert has yet to join any particular project, it's confident that its private equity and finance practices will play an indispensable role in financing business ventures related to the Belt and Road.

Impressive start

Founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1875 by Wayne MacVeagh and George Tucker Bispham, Dechert had represented a number of companies in the railway, banking and coal industries in its infancy.

Pennsylvania Railroad - a pioneer in the US railroad business and one of the country's largest and most powerful enterprises - first retained Dechert in 1877 and has kept the service for nearly a century.

Nassau explains that Philadelphia is more manufacturing-oriented place and is just 100 miles from New York - the US' premier financial hub - and thus, Dechert has been doing more business with New York-based financial institutions, including those engaged in mutual funds or private equity funds, through which it has made itself more finance-oriented.

It's due to these companies' global operations that Dechert has followed them around the world.

"We've shifted the concentration of our business because we would like to do the most valuable and profitable work. Also, we would like to follow the sophisticated work which is the multinational work initially," says Nassau.

Dechert started going international in the early 1960s, opening its first European office in Brussels in 1968, followed by another in London four years later. Currently, it has offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The company's business strategy is always focusing on or figuring out what it's good at, and it places greater emphasis on transactional capital market work rather than the general navigation and corporate aspects.

"Making mid-market transactions of between $50 million and $1 billion is not about just knowing the law, but also plenty of experience and market knowledge ," says Nassau.

Having been with Dechert for almost 25 years, Nassau has witnessed the company's change of strategies, as well as its evolvement in staff turnover, with one-third of its lawyers and half of the corporate lawyers now based outside the US at 28 offices worldwide.

Contact the writer at tingduan@chinadailyhk.com
Despite the big differences in political systems, economic development and cultural norms among Asian and European countries, the two continents need to embrace the greater communication and cooperation opportunities brought about by expanding globalization and regional integration, said Xie Bohua, a senior official of the Asia-Europe Meeting.

Xie Bohua, senior official of the Asia-Europe Meeting

ASEM was founded in 1996 and aims to improve and increase cooperation in politics, economics and culture between Asia and Europe.

It is the largest intergovernmental organization for such activity between the two areas, with 51 countries in Asia and Europe, and two organizations - the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations - as its members.

The population and GDP of ASEM members account for 60 percent of the world's total.

As a founding member of ASEM, China put forward initiatives regarding digital connectivity, technological innovation, energy conservation, trade and investment facilitation, sustainable development and new urbanization as key agenda items.

The digital economy has increasingly become a fast-growth field for both areas in recent years, Xie said, adding that ASEM members hope to promote economic growth, create jobs and tap the innovation potential the sector holds.

The digital economy helps to reduce the barriers to information flow, improve efficiency of resources matching and narrow the imbalance of regional development by promoting the connectivity of industries, logistics, economy and trade, Xie noted.

The sector is currently the most active part of China's economic development, contributing nearly 30 percent of the country's GDP and creating 2.8 million new jobs in 2016.

Digital products and services from Chinese companies, including telecommunication giant Huawei, e-commerce leader Alibaba and internet service provider Tencent, have facilitated business exchanges between Asia and Europe, and injected new vigor into the economies where their technological solutions are offered, Xie said.

With the theme of unleashing potential for innovative growth, this year's ASEM High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity, held in Qingdao, Shandong province, on June 19 and 20 is co-sponsored by Singapore, Myanmar, Romania and Croatia and has attracted over 600 participants, including high-level delegations from Cambodia, Cyprus, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar and Romania as well as the representatives of other members of ASEM.

(China Daily 06/19/2017 page24)
Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week was held at a range of China Cultural Centers abroad to celebrate China's first Cultural and Natural Heritage Day.

A intangible cultural heritage inheritor performs paper-cutting during the Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week in Benin, June 10, 2017. [Photo/Chinaculture.org]

Benin

An exhibition featuring intangible cultural heritages from Ningxia Hui autonomous region was held at the China Cultural Center in Benin on June 10.

The 100 showpieces included paper-cuttings, embroideries, clay sculptures and models of ancient Chinese architecture.

Tian Yanlan, an inheritor of Hui people's paper-cutting, introduced the protection of intangible cultural heritage in Ningxia.

The exhibition ran until June 17.
Editor's Notes: From the runway to exhibitions and presentations to digital mode, Paris seems like the fashion city of choice for most Chinese designers. This year's Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2017-2018 begins on July 2 and will feature a range of top Chinese fashion designers, including Laurence Xu, who's made another great collection themed on a picturesque Chinese landscape.

Haute couture, defined by the French Federation of Fashion and of Ready-to-Wear Couturiers and Fashion Designers, has become an expression of French national pride and Parisian self-belief. Its committee, however, has a very tough approval process for non-French designers' applications, but Xu's couture managed to receive a tick of approval and he was invited to return again.

"Xu's vision involves all the necessary elements for a luxury haute couture brand: craftsmanship, history, cultural heritage, storytelling, emotion and endless elegance," said Christine Zhao Qian, director of the Paris Chinese Haute Couture Association, who recommended Xu for Paris Haute Couture Week.

Chinese fashion designer Laurence Xu talks with reporters about his use of traditional and exquisite techniques at his studio in Beijing on June 16. [Photo by Yu Jie/ Provided to China Daily ]

Final preparations for Chinese fashion designer Xu's work are underway before his collection is featured at the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2017-2018, which begins on July 2.

The occasion will mark the third time for Xu to showcase his talent and creations in the international fashion arena.

The 43-year-old is set to present 38 stunning gowns that are an opulent melding of Western cuts and traditional Chinese symbolism.

However, the collection will be different from his last two appearances in 2013 and 2015. For the 2017 couture line, he turned to traditional Chinese elements, particularly Guizhou wax printing and Miao embroidery, to create his own distinct aesthetics, told China Daily website.

"From highly embellished gowns to the 'natural' landscape aesthetic, I just want to make a spiritual pilgrimage, and slow down a bit from the hustle and bustle of modern life," he said at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday.

Renowned as an ambassador of Chinese traditions, Xu considers embroidery and brocade as part of his design DNA. Also, he said he felt a "responsibility" to keep the ancient Chinese wax printing techniques alive while presenting the delicate design to the world.

Traditionally, the wax printing technique is created using a small spatula as a pen and wax liquid as paint to draw patterns on the cloth. Then the cloth is placed into a dye vat with handmade blue paint.

"However, wax prints are not confined to an indigo colored pattern. The cloth could be colored in a variety of ways and shaped in different styles that creates a modern look, juxtaposing both Western silhouettes and Chinese flavor," Xu explained.

It usually takes dozens of craftsmen 20 days to finish an article of clothing, according to Xu's assistant. The show costs him almost 30 million yuan ($4.4 million) as Xu prepares it for half a year.

Xu believes his creations with exquisite Chinese wax printing techniques could become classic again, like the "dragon robe" designed for a Chinese actress that was later acquired by the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

"Making my designs at an affordable price is not an easy job, but I strive to do so in the near future," Xu said, adding that 80 percent of his current customers are the ultra-wealthy from China's Hong Kong, Singapore and Arab countries.
Kutesmart sews up tech-based biz model in traditional industry 2017-06-19 07:02:10 China Daily David Blair Garment manufacturing is usually thought to be the prototypical low-wage industry. Companies in the industry move to wherever the labor is cheapest.

Garment manufacturing is usually thought to be the prototypical low-wage industry. Companies in the industry move to wherever the labor is cheapest.

Qingdao Kutesmart Co in East China's Shandong province is proving that by using the right technology and a smart business model, it's possible to be highly competitive in a traditional industry, even as wages rise.

The "smile curve", proposed in the early 1990s by Stan Shih, the founder of Acer Inc in Taiwan, says that most of the profits from a product are captured by designers, brand owners or retail channels, not by the manufacturers. By contrast, Zhang Daili, chairman and founder of Kutesmart, argues that by using direct contacts with customers and efficient production processes, manufacturers can get most of the profits.

Through its Red Collar and Cotte brands, the company's "customer-to-manufacturer", information-intensive and integrated process boosts profits by providing highly customized business suits below mass market off-the-shelf costs, cutting out the middlemen.

Customers can either go to one of the company's brick-and-mortar measurement sites or give detailed measurements online. They can also choose such things as the type of cloth, styles and stitching. This personalized information is then fed into Kutesmart's automated precision cutting machines, then to the embroiders, joiners, ironers and others. The suit is electronically tracked until it is ready for the customer, seven days later.

According to research by Lu Yinghan of Jinan University Management School, Kutesmart's profits increased by more than 25 percent per year in 2014 and 2015. By contrast, public companies in the clothing industry saw average revenue fall by 2.6 percent and net profits fall by 3.6 percent in those years. The company is privately held and does not disclose profit information directly.

Kutesmart employs about 3,000 people, paying wages approximately 20 percent higher than the industry average, according to He Wei, a company representative in the branding and public relations department.

Started in 1995, the company was at first a traditional clothing manufacturer. Zhang, its chairman, worked for many years developing what the company calls its "source data engineering" or SDE process, which links custom orders to a finished product.

"SDE deeply integrates industry and information, using production process networking and intelligent management to achieve synchronous production of personalized products. It is data-driven, on-demand, zero-inventory, with a flat management structure - a very lean production process," said He. The company uses radio frequency identification tags to track products through the process.

In a company video, Zhang said: "In 2003, Chinese were struggling for razor-thin margins from processing orders from New York. Red Collar used to be a traditional enterprise group. As contradictions between production and the market increased, the only way out was to open up a new path by ourselves. We began to consider the transformation from mass production to personalized customization. It lasted 12 years and cost hundreds of millions. Based on deep integration of informatization and industrialization, we formed a complete internet-of-things system and made it our core value."

Chen Shaozhi, a senior journalist who heads the Made in China 2025 team at Xinhua News Agency's Economy and the Nation Weekly, stresses that the company's success is based on its appropriate use of information systems.

"Kutesmart uses typical machines, but they do customized production at the same time. Some companies might think about using robots for this role. Kutesmart did not reduce its worker count, but enhanced its profit margin a lot. This model is very appropriate for China's current situation," Chen said.

Kutesmart has created another core line of business in which it advises other manufacturers about the SDE production process.

"At present, we've contracted pilot upgrading plans with nearly 100 enterprises in jeans, clothing, hats, shoes, furniture, casting and electrical appliances," He said.

In the company video, Zhang Yunlan, Kutesmart's president and daughter of the founder, said: "Around 2014, the inventory in China's clothing market was conservatively estimated to be worth about 400 billion yuan ($59 billion) - enough to cover three years of sales in the Chinese market. But Kutesmart managed to have zero inventory. When other garment enterprises were suffering because of high inventory, Kutesmart achieved rapid growth year-on-year.

"Behind these good numbers is the unique internet-industry model of this enterprise - manufacturing personalized products by means of industrialization, efficiency, and cost-reduction."

Workshop of Red Collar, a brand owned by Qingdao Kutesmart, has been transformed from a traditional garment factory into a high-tech unit capable of making customized products. Provided To China Daily

A customer experience center of Cotte, a brand owned by Kutesmart, in Qingdao, Shandong province. Provided To China Daily

Zhang Daili, Kutesmart's founder, personally checks measurements of a custom-made suit at a finishing line.Provided To China Daily

Expert tailors at Qingdao Kutesmart factory verify custom specifications received through online channels. Provided To China Daily

(China Daily 06/19/2017 page16)
Tech giants base new plants, projects in supportive coastal city 2017-06-19 07:04:19 China Daily Zhuan Ti The ongoing ASEM High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity, part of the Asia-Europe Meeting, has put the host city Qingdao, Shandong province, in the limelight.

The ongoing ASEM High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity, part of the Asia-Europe Meeting, has put the host city Qingdao, Shandong province, in the limelight.

The coastal city in East China is at the forefront of the country in terms of information technology infrastructure, smart manufacturing and big data-based industries.

Home appliance manufacturer Haier, headquartered in Qingdao, has launched eight internet-based plants, producing refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines and water heaters, to deliver tailor-made products after receiving online orders.

The plants together have reduced their product research and development period by more than 20 percent, slashed the delivery period to seven to 15 days from 21 days previously and improved energy efficiency by 5 percent, China Industry News reported.

Other local industrial leaders that feature smart production facilities include Qingdao Sentury Tire and Qingdao Desheng Machine Manufacture.

While the local business community is rolling out a series of smart plants to accelerate the upgrading of traditional sectors, a group of research institutes focusing on industrial robots and internet-based industries are providing support in order to further innovation.

By hosting an array of exhibitions and other professional events, local authorities have placed an emphasis on creating opportunities to exchange the latest industrial knowledge and bring in technological and managerial expertise.

Qingdao hosted the 2016 World Internet Plus Industry Conference in September. The Chinese Academy of Engineering's first manufacturing service center was unveiled during the event and the first strategic alliance for intelligent manufacturing innovation in the global home appliance sector was founded.

"The event provides a new platform for exchanges and cooperation between industrialists, scholars and researchers in China and abroad," Lu Yongxiang, former vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, said at the opening ceremony.

"It is of great significance to promote internet-based industries and advance the shift from the China-made to the China-created model," said Lu, who now serves as the director of the National Manufacturing Strategy Advisory Committee.

As a national model city for next-generation internet application and a national pilot project for smart city technology and standards, Qingdao has a strong IT infrastructure network and has won a great number of national awards relating to smart city development.

To date, the top 20 dotcom companies in China, including Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu and Sina, have all established a presence in the city.

Big data projects are progressing well in the city, funded by big names such as Huawei, Hewlett-Packard and Tsinghua University, as well as three major domestic telecom service providers - China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom.

HP plans to invest heavily in its global big data application, processing and testing center and an intelligent industrial experimental zone in Qingdao.

Cloud computing service provider Inspur has pledged to pour 4 billion yuan ($588 million) in developing a group of projects, including a big data and cloud-computing research center and large industrial software R&D and training bases.

Qingdao is sharpening its competitive edge in innovation along the supply chain, ranging from data collection chip and equipment design and manufacturing, to end products such as smartphones and wearable devices.

zhuanti@chinadaily.com.cn

A technician tests an industrial robot in the Qingdao high-tech industrial development zone. Photos Provided To China Daily

Qingdao boasts a friendly environment for innovation, business and residence.

(China Daily 06/19/2017 page24)
Qingdao to host Asia-Europe meeting 2017-06-19 07:04:19 China Daily Cao Yingying As the internet and the digital economy lead the charge in global innovative development, gradually changing people's lifestyles around the world, the ongoing Asia-Europe Meeting High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity aims to address hot topics in the sector.

Forum to focus on global digital connectivity in the internet age

As the internet and the digital economy lead the charge in global innovative development, gradually changing people's lifestyles around the world, the ongoing Asia-Europe Meeting High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity aims to address hot topics in the sector.

ASEM was established in 1996 to foster cooperation between the two continents and facilitate international dialogue. The forum, taking place on Monday and Tuesday in Qingdao, Shandong province, is the first event about the digital economy in ASEM's history.

It provides a platform for ASEM's 53 members to exchange ideas, share their experiences and discuss cooperative opportunities related to the digital economy and internet development, said Yin Zonghua, vice-chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, one of the event's co-hosts.

Premier Li Keqiang put the idea of discussing digital interconnectivity on the ASEM agenda last July, a suggestion that was praised and supported by many countries. Later, China announced it would host an interconnectivity forum in Qingdao to deepen the conversation on the topic.

Digital infrastructure construction is the cornerstone of developing new technologies, services and business models, Yin said.

ASEM members' different industries and enterprises have adapted to the internet in vastly divergent ways, he said. The forum's primary mission is to enhance the construction of information networks and to promote communication and cooperation among governments and enterprises in Asia and Europe, he noted.

The forum will discuss how to spur internet-based innovation and support traditional industries' integration of the internet.

The emerging global cross-border e-commerce sector and its expanding market base have made international trade more accessible, providing huge opportunities especially for small and medium-sized businesses to integrate into the global supply chain.

At the forum, participants will discuss cross-border e-commerce payment and settlement, rights protection and commercial cooperation.

Both traditional industrial countries and emerging economies highly value the combination of big data and the manufacturing industry, Yin said.

How to strengthen the integration of new information technology and the manufacturing industry, as well as how to increase Asia-Europe economic development are therefore among the main topics to be discussed at the forum.

Host city Qingdao plans to become a key center of innovation and services, as well as an internationally influential hub for maritime development and advanced manufacturing during the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20), said Han Shouxin, the deputy secretary-general of the city government.

Qingdao Port has established trade with more than 700 ports throughout 180 countries and regions, with its yearly cargo throughput reaching 500 million metric tons in 2016.

Qingdao's sound information network infrastructure, intelligent manufacturing and other favorable industrial conditions have laid a solid foundation for the city to host the event, Han added.

caoyingying@chinadaily.com.cn

The Asia-Europe Meeting High-Level Forum on Digital Connectivity is held in Qingdao, Shandong province, on Monday and Tuesday. Gu Chenxi / For China Daily

(China Daily 06/19/2017 page24)
Getting to the top 2017-06-19 07:54:24 China Daily Xu Wei For city-dwellers longing for fresh air, Fanjing Mountain with its vast forests is a natural oxygen bar.

For city-dwellers longing for fresh air, Fanjing Mountain with its vast forests is a natural oxygen bar. Xu Wei reports from Tongren, Guizhou province.

For anyone who wants to see the best of China's southwest, Fanjing Mountain (Fanjingshan) is a must-visit. But watch out, the best is not for the faint-hearted.

For city-dwellers longing for fresh air, the mountain, with its vast forests, is a natural oxygen bar. For adventure seekers, the mountain peak, with its almost vertical and slippery steps, offers a challenge guaranteed to quicken the heartbeat.

As you approach, you see the well-preserved mountain surrounded by dense forests and creeks with their almost crystal clear water.

The mountain also provides a habitat for the gray snub-nosed monkey, or Guizhou snub-nosed monkey, and Abies fanjingshanensis, a species of conifer found only in the mountain area.

As you ascend the mountain by cable car, you find yourself surrounded by thick clouds and dense canopies below you.

As you are halfway up the mountain, the evergreen forests, dotted with stunning wildflowers, offer you a spectacular view of the landscape.

On the horizon, valleys, rocks, cliffs and peaks start to reveal themselves.

The isolated stone peaks, which are barely visible from the foot of the mountain, now appear in a way that seems to defy gravity.

I was told by a guide that I had hit the jackpot as I was welcomed by warm sunshine on the top of the mountain.

If you want to go further up the mountain to the top of the stone peaks, you walk, and this marks the start of the most thrilling part of the trip.

Along the snaking road up the mountain, there are occasional reminders for you to watch out for deadly snakes. There are six species of venomous snakes in the area, so make sure you avoid the bushes.

The best way to appreciate the beauty of the mountain is by heading to the topthe Hongyunjin peak.

If you take the north path to the top, which is steeper and more dangerous, it offers a spectacular view.

As you climb, you find that the way up has become so steep that you are forced to use both hands and feet to climb.

The path then becomes so narrow and steep that it only allows one person to move.

I had to overcome my fear to continue ascending. The final few steps are a bit of an anticlimax. And then there you are: a whole world of forests, clouds and more peaks on the horizon.

Amazingly, two Buddhist temples sit atop the peak, which also partly explains why the mountain is a holy place for Buddhists.

You cannot help but wonder how anyone managed to build a temple there.

The guide told me the experience is heightened by constantly changing weather, including seasonal and daily variations.

The mountain, already a National Nature Reserve of China, has also been nominated as a World Natural Heritage Site, and local authorities are making efforts to improve the facilities in the area.

The mountain offers different views during different seasons, but you might want to avoid the national holidays as the scenic area will be crowded. Think twice before you bring your young children atop the peaks.

Yang Jun contributed to the story.
Chinese Vice Premier attends groundbreaking ceremony for traditional Chinese medicine center in Budapest 2017-06-19 14:03:57 Xinhua Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary

Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

The building will house the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Center.

The Chinese official was here to attend the opening ceremony of the third health ministers' forum between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) scheduled for June 18 to 21 in Hungary.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of the Chinese nation, it does not only belong to China, but also to the world," she said at the ceremony.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced in May this year to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Hungary, she said, adding that the two governments proposed to deepen cooperation in the field of health, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

She said that this opened up vast space for Chinese medicine cooperation. "It is gratifying to see that Hungary takes the lead in legislating and enacting rules for practicing Chinese medicine in Europe, recognizing and accepting Chinese medicine for national service," Liu said.

"I hope that the two countries' universities will create together a high level platform of Chinese medicine education cooperation to train more Chinese medicine experts in need," she added.

She hoped that "the two countries' medical experts will work together in close collaboration, and take complementary advantages of Chinese and Western medicine, to explore a new model of Chinese and Western medicine to overcome disease."

"I hope that the Chinese medicine center will not only impart knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also show the traditional Chinese culture and philosophical wisdom, and promote the cooperation in Traditional Chinese Medicine between China and Hungary to become a bright 'business card' to deepen the health cooperation between the two countries and to promote cultural exchanges between them," she said.

State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities Bence Retvari also said at the ceremony "This step is not only an important cornerstone for the Hungarian education, but also for the Chinese-Hungarian medical cooperation," adding "Traditional Chinese Medicine is going to play an important role in education, in research and also in healing."

Liu Yandong listened to the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine educational cooperation between the Semmelweis University in Budapest and the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in Harbin in northeast China, and the preparations of the Central and Eastern European Traditional Chinese Medical Education and Training Center to be built. She also visited the Traditional Chinese Medicine classrooms and observed the students' clinical practice.

In 2010, the two universities signed a cooperation agreement for jointly starting a five-year TCM program in order to train Hungarian TCM professionals.

The program follows a "4+1" model, that is, students study the TCM program at the Faculty of Health Sciences, in the Semmelweis University for the first four years, and complete clinical practice at the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in the fifth year.

The first batch of Hungarian graduates have successfully completed their studies and obtained their diplomas in 2016. The two sides renewed their cooperation agreement in 2017.
Hainan launches new tourism products at Beijing expo 2017-06-19 16:52:09 chinadaily.com.cn Yang Feiyue Hainan rolled out a series of new travel products to woo travelers from northern China during the Beijing International Tourism Expo from June 16 to 18.

Hainan rolled out a series of new travel products to woo travelers from northern China during the Beijing International Tourism Expo from June 16 to 18.

Aviation, high-speed rail, cruising and duty-free trips are developed for northerners to experience what the island has to offer.

The island province has long been a tourism hot spot with residents in the north, especially during the winter time, for fresh air and warm climate.

At the moment, Hainan is also working on to improve tourism featuring ocean, forest, health preservation, village and industry at the moment.

"In the next five years, Hainan will develop a series of world-class tourism projects  and strive to build itself into a first-class leisure and vacation destination," says Sun Ying, director of the Hainan tourism development commission.
China's first Cultural and Natural Heritage Day celebrated abroad 2017-06-19 16:10:07 Chinaculture.org The Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week was held at a range of China Cultural Centers abroad to celebrate China's first Cultural and Natural Heritage Day.

Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week was held at a range of China Cultural Centers abroad to celebrate China's first Cultural and Natural Heritage Day.

Benin

An exhibition featuring intangible cultural heritages from Ningxia Hui autonomous region was held at the China Cultural Center in Benin on June 10.

The 100 showpieces included paper-cuttings, embroideries, clay sculptures and models of ancient Chinese architecture.

Tian Yanlan, an inheritor of Hui people's paper-cutting, introduced the protection of intangible cultural heritage in Ningxia.

The exhibition ran until June 17.

Germany

Intangible cultural heritages from Zhejiang province were showcased in Berlin, Germany, from June 9 to 15.

The artists performed Kunqu Opera, gu qin (a plucked seven-string Chinese musical instrument) and traditional Chinese tea art.

Traditional fans, embroideries and porcelain were also featured at the exhibition.

Singapore

During Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week in Singapore, the local people tasted zong zi (glutinous rice stuffed with fillings and wrapped in leaves) and tried paper-cutting and Chinese calligraphy.

A lecture and a photo exhibition on traditional Chinese medicine were given on June 10.

Thailand

The Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Week in Thailand was held in Bangkok on June 3.

A series of intangible cultural heritages from Guangdong province was shown, including Guangzhou ceramic and lime sculptures, Foshan paper-cuttings and handmade Chaozhou red clay teapots.

Folk artists from Guangdong also performed puppet shows at the event.

South Korea

Activities displaying Chinese intangible cultural heritages were held in several cities in South Korea from June 9 to 17, ranging from exhibitions, performances and lectures to cultural trade introductions.

Sixteen programs were featured during a gala, entitled "China's Intangible Cultural Heritages and Me", at the China Cultural Center in Seoul on June 11. During the event, Chinese intangible cultural heritage inheritors showed participants how to make mooncakes and sugarcoated fruits.
Vice-Premier attends groundbreaking ceremony for TCM center in Budapest 2017-06-19 09:22:42 Xinhua Visiting Vice-Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

BUDAPEST - Visiting Vice-Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

The building will house the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Center.

The Chinese official was here to attend the opening ceremony of the third health ministers' forum between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) scheduled for June 18 to 21 in Hungary.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of the Chinese nation, it does not only belong to China, but also to the world," she said at the ceremony.

President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced in May this year to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Hungary, she said, adding that the two governments proposed to deepen cooperation in the field of health, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

She said that this opened up vast space for Chinese medicine cooperation. "It is gratifying to see that Hungary takes the lead in legislating and enacting rules for practicing Chinese medicine in Europe, recognizing and accepting Chinese medicine for national service," Liu said.

"I hope that the two countries' universities will create together a high level platform of Chinese medicine education cooperation to train more Chinese medicine experts in need," she added.

She hoped that "the two countries' medical experts will work together in close collaboration, and take complementary advantages of Chinese and Western medicine, to explore a new model of Chinese and Western medicine to overcome disease."

"I hope that the Chinese medicine center will not only impart knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also show the traditional Chinese culture and philosophical wisdom, and promote the cooperation in Traditional Chinese Medicine between China and Hungary to become a bright 'business card' to deepen the health cooperation between the two countries and to promote cultural exchanges between them," she said.

State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities Bence Retvari also said at the ceremony "This step is not only an important cornerstone for the Hungarian education, but also for the Chinese-Hungarian medical cooperation," adding "Traditional Chinese Medicine is going to play an important role in education, in research and also in healing."

Liu Yandong listened to the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine educational cooperation between the Semmelweis University in Budapest and the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in Harbin in northeast China, and the preparations of the Central and Eastern European Traditional Chinese Medical Education and Training Center to be built. She also visited the Traditional Chinese Medicine classrooms and observed the students' clinical practice.

In 2010, the two universities signed a cooperation agreement for jointly starting a five-year TCM program in order to train Hungarian TCM professionals.

The program follows a "4+1" model, that is, students study the TCM program at the Faculty of Health Sciences, in the Semmelweis University for the first four years, and complete clinical practice at the Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine in the fifth year.

The first batch of Hungarian graduates have successfully completed their studies and obtained their diplomas in 2016. The two sides renewed their cooperation agreement in 2017.
Premier Li targets trade with Canada 2017-06-19 23:39:02 chinadaily.com.cn HU YONGQI Premier Li Keqiang told Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a telephone call on Monday night that China is willing to work with Canada in promoting trade liberalization and investment facilitation, and strengthening cooperation in fields such as clean energy and the environment.

Premier Li Keqiang told Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a telephone call on Monday night that China is willing to work with Canada in promoting trade liberalization and investment facilitation, and strengthening cooperation in fields such as clean energy and the environment.

The two countries have launched an economic and financial strategic dialogue, and the third round of free-trade zone feasibility studies is also to begin soon, Li told Trudeau during the call.

He said that China is willing to accelerate an alignment with Canada's development strategies, deepening cooperation in fields such as trade, investment and agriculture, as well as boosting cooperation in third-party markets.

Trudeau said his country would like to expand cooperation with China in various fields, and that Canada is also willing to enhance exchanges in tourism and other fields when strengthening communication and coordination of international affairs with China.

On climate change, Li said China is striving for green, low-emission and sustainable development, which is needed for domestic economic transformation and also is a responsibility for China to fulfill a common destiny with other countries. China will work with other countries, including Canada, to cope with challenges and better carry out the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development of the United Nations, he said.

Trudeau said he appreciates China's stance on climate change and the role that the world's second-largest economy has played. Canada will increase exchanges with China in this area, he said.
Australia's groundswell of bias counterproductive 2017-06-19 06:58:48 CHina Daily That Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull labeled China a "frenemy" at an event last year was leaked by Australia's Fairfax Media on Friday shows some in Australia are intent on trying to disrupt the generally rosy picture of bilateral cooperation by continuing to whip up anti-China sentiment.

That Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull labeled China a "frenemy" at an event last year was leaked by Australia's Fairfax Media on Friday shows some in Australia are intent on trying to disrupt the generally rosy picture of bilateral cooperation by continuing to whip up anti-China sentiment.

In the past few weeks, Australian media have used unfounded evidence and wild speculation to accuse China of trying to expand its political influence in Australia, trying to "instigate China panic" as Chinese Ambassador to Australia Cheng Jingye noted earlier last week.

Turnbull himself has joined the chorus of bias against China, and his speech addressing the Shangri-La Forum in Singapore early this month has been cited as proof he is adopting a tougher stance toward China.

Such a worrying trend has naturally aroused concerns in China and prompted doubts about Canberra's sincerity in promoting meaningful interaction with Beijing. If the trend continues, it will no doubt put a brake on the current good momentum in bilateral cooperation, which will only do a disservice to the interests of both sides.

The current groundswell of China-bashing in Australia stems from those Australians still clinging to an outdated zero-sum mentality, those who have bought into the US' strategy to contain China.

Indeed, it is Australia's role in the US' alliance system in the region that has resulted in it suffering from schizophrenia, since it is finding it increasingly difficult to maintain a balance between its most important ally on the one hand and its biggest trading partner on the other.

The long-time and deep-running US influence in their country means some narrow-minded Australians and biased media do not want to see China's economic influence in Australia rising.

However, Australian politicians and media need to understand developing a constructive and growing relationship with China, and realizing the opportunities of what Australia itself has identified as the Asian century, serves the best interests of their country and contributes to the stability and development of the region at large.

Right now, the wide global support being offered to the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative should help dispel any ill-grounded suspicions it may have of Beijing's strategic intentions in the region and beyond.

The Australian leader should show political wisdom and vision by playing his part in building an objective and fair public perception of China in his country, which is the essential foundation for bilateral ties to grow healthily and exert a positive influence on regional peace and development.
Panda cub raises fresh hopes of better China-Japan relations 2017-06-19 07:28:50 China Daily Cai Hong Friendship may no longer be the catchphrase in China-Japan relations. But the black-and-white cuddly creatures from China continue to endear themselves to Japanese fans.

Friendship may no longer be the catchphrase in China-Japan relations. But the black-and-white cuddly creatures from China continue to endear themselves to Japanese fans. In a notice announcing the birth of a giant panda cub posted at its entrance last Monday, Tokyo's Ueno Zoo has asked visitors to maintain silence in the panda enclave. The panda father, Ri Ri, is on solo show while the mother, Shin Shin, with her cub, is now on maternity leave.

"We would like to provide her (Shin Shin) with a calm and comfortable environment so that she can concentrate on childcare," the zoo notice says.

The zoo has reason to be careful about the newborn panda. In 2012, the panda couple lost their first cub six days after it was born, reducing the zoo director to tears. In 2013, Japanese panda fans were abuzz with the news of Shin Shin's second pregnancy, which, however, turned out to be a false alarm.

Congratulating Shin Shin, for the successful delivery, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike is planning to ask the Japanese public to suggest a name for the newborn. And after hearing that Shin Shin has successfully delivered a cub, 84-year-old Japanese entertainer and writer Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, said: "This is the happiest moment of my recent life."

Economists see pandas as a "good investment" as they attract more visitors and increase a zoo's revenue, especially if they give birth to cubs. In fact, Katsuhiro Miyamoto, professor emeritus at the Osaka-based Kansai University, has argued that Shin Shin's delivery will boost Tokyo's economy by 26.7 billion yen ($244 million) a year, as he estimates 5.66 million visitors will visit Ueno Zoo this year, up 47.2 percent from 3.8 million last year.

Pandas are a diplomatic symbol of China's goodwill and nurture political relations. "Panda diplomacy" can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), as Empress Wu Zetian (624-705) sent a pair of pandas to the Japanese emperor as a gift.

On Nov 4, 1972, huge crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of two "bamboo-eating creatures" Lan Lan and Kang Kang that made their debut at Ueno Zoo. They were China's gifts to Japan to commemorate the normalization of bilateral ties. Their arrival sparked a Japanese craze called "the panda boom".

In 2008, when then president Hu Jintao paid a state visit to Japan, then Japanese prime minister Yasuo Fukuda told him about Japanese people's love of pandas and hoped that China would lease pandas to Japan for joint research. Fukuda made the request on April 30, a day after the death of Ling Ling, a panda gifted to Ueno Zoo in 1992.

China stopped gifting pandas to foreign countries because of a sharp decline in the number of pandas in the early 1980s. Since then, pandas have been only leased out for joint research.

Thanks to the agreement between China and Japan, Shin Shin and Ri Ri arrived at the Ueno Zoo in February 2011. They were ready for display shortly after the destructive earthquake and tsunami struck northeast Japan on March 11, 2011, bringing some joy to Japanese panda fans.

Japanese and Chinese officials were startled by the news of Shin Shin giving birth. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga described a panda, loved by many for its charming face and gestures, as "one of the great testaments to the Japan-China friendship". Calling a panda a friendly envoy of China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said he hoped pandas will continue to play a big role in strengthening friendship and improving relations between China and Japan, as well as other countries.

The New York Times once quoted Theodore Reed, former director of Washington-based National Zoo, as saying: "You like musk oxen, but pandas can steal your heart away." But can the panda cub born in Tokyo, with all its cuteness, help renew the friendship between China and Japan?

The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind.

The author is China Daily Tokyo bureau chief. caihong@chinadaily.com.cn
Shaanxi role in B&R shows benefits galore for province 2017-06-19 07:00:21 Xinhua The Belt and Road Initiative is spurring myriad business activities and trade in Northwest China's Shaanxi province. The province's role in the Initiative is also growing.

BEIJING - The Belt and Road Initiative is spurring myriad business activities and trade in Northwest China's Shaanxi province. The province's role in the Initiative is also growing.

For instance, early this month, Serbian businessman Alexander Stankovic, general manager of a winery, spent over 25 hours traveling from his Belgrade home to Xi'an in the province to attend an expo on the Belt and Road Initiative.

Stankovic had to transfer flights in Moscow and Beijing before reaching Xi'an, the easternmost point of the ancient Silk Road.

At the 2017 Silk Road International Expo from June 3 to 7, Alexander's display area attracted plenty of visitors and many Chinese clients are considering cooperation with the winery.

The expo was a chance for Serbia to introduce Chinese people to its traditional culture, tourism resources and products, according to Rasim Ljajic, deputy prime minister of Serbia.

In Almaty, Kazakhstan, a China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Demonstration Park, put together by an agency of Shaanxi province, is catching the attention of local people. Kazakhstan is one of the countries and regions participating in the Initiative.

"We planted 24 kinds of agricultural products here, including wheat, corn and beans, in 2016. Our new wheat is over 82 percent higher in yield than the local ones," said Ma Jing, an official with Shaanxi Yangling Agricultural Demonstration Zone, the cradle of Chinese agriculture.

Since 1997, Yangling has also been home to the High-tech Agricultural Industrial Demonstration Zone. It operates eight agricultural cooperation zones worldwide.

Shaanxi's contributions to the Initiative come in many forms.

For instance, it had a role in the new Mombasa-Nairobi railway line in Kenya built by China. On May 31, the 480-kilometer railway opened. Local train driver Alice Mugure Gitau was among the seven female drivers who received training at Baoji in Shaanxi.

Gitau was the driver of the first passenger train on the railway, which created 46,000 jobs for local people.

In China, a 2,300-km high-speed railway line linking Baoji to Lanzhou city in Gansu province is about to open. It connects some important cities along the ancient Silk Road, and is ready to connect to railways in central and western Asia and Europe, said Guo Junqi, an engineer with China Railway Group.

On May 31, the World Apple Industry Center was launched in Shaanxi, a famous production base of the fruit in China.

New opportunities are arising for the young in Shaanxi. A Russian student plans to set up a trading firm and import Russian products for sale in the province.

Similarly, a student from Thailand hopes to open a Thai restaurant in Yangling after graduation.
AIIB injects new vitality to development of sustainable infrastructure: Chinese finance minister 2017-06-19 09:36:38 Xinhua AIIB has become an important member of the world's multilateral development system and has injected new vitality to the development of sustainable infrastructure and connectivity.

JEJU ISLAND - The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has become an important member of the world's multilateral development system and has injected new vitality to the development of sustainable infrastructure and connectivity, said Chinese Finance Minister Xiao Jie.

Xiao made the remarks at the Second Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the AIIB held here through Saturday.

Xiao said that Chinese leaders have attached great importance to the building and management of the AIIB, while members of the bank have also held high expectations for its future development.

With the support of its members, the bank has been off to a good start since it was launched in January 2016, Xiao said, adding that the bank has finished with high efficiency formulating rules and regulations, building organizational structure, and has approved 23 new members while deepening cooperation and partnership with relevant parties.

He stressed that the annual meeting, with the theme "Sustainable Infrastructure," shows the bank's commitment to promoting Asian as well as the world economic development through providing financing for sustainable infrastructure development.

The bank, with its lean structure and highly efficient operation model, has a late-development advantage in promoting sustainable infrastructure development, mobilizing private sector capital, and effectively responding to the needs of clients, Xiao said.

He hopes that the AIIB could exhibit its uniqueness and innovativeness as a 21st century development institution and inject new vitality to the existing multilateral development system, accurately comprehend the new trends of international development and better meet the diversified needs of its members, and increasingly mobilize the money from private sector to build a long-term, steady, sustainable multilateral financing system with risks under control for supporting infrastructure development.

The Second Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the AIIB kicked off on Friday, with governors and representatives of the members, government officials, international organization officials, scholars and businessmen in attendance.

The meeting approved three new members, Argentina, Madagascar and Tonga, to join the bank, and decided that the third annual meeting to be held in Mumbai, India in June 2018.

Xiao attended the meeting as a Chinese governor of the bank. He also met with South Korean Vice Prime Minister and Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon, Indonesian Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, and Financial Secretary of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Paul Chan Mo-po on the sidelines of the meeting.
Nepal proposes AIIB issuing local currency bonds: official 2017-06-19 10:00:07 Xinhua Nepal has proposed that the China-initiated AIIB could issue currency bonds in Nepal to raise funds domestically to finance infrastructure projects in the country

KATHMANDU - Nepal has proposed that the China-initiated Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) could issue currency bonds in Nepal to raise funds domestically to finance infrastructure projects in the country, a senior official of Nepal's Finance Ministry said.

Nepal has already permitted International Finance Corporation (IFC), a private sector financing wing of the World Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB) to issue Nepali Rupee bonds, but they are yet to issue such bonds.

Yug Raj Pandey, under secretary at Nepal's Finance Ministry, told Xinhua on Sunday that Nepal had asked AIIB to issue local currency bonds in Nepal to collect financial resources domestically during its second meeting of the board of governors in South Korea,

Pandey is one of the delegation members of Nepal led by Finance Minister Gyanendra Bahadur Karki in the AIIB meeting which was held on June 17-18.

According to a press release issued by Nepali Finance Ministry on Sunday, Karki had sought increased investment in Nepal from AIIB, considering Nepal's need for investment of around 9-10 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in infrastructure sector.

Currently, Nepal has been investing just around four percent of the GDP in the sector. Minister Karki had sought investment in the areas of transport, electricity, urban development, drinking water, aviation and information and communication technologies.
China, Brazil agree to enhance fiscal, financial cooperation 2017-06-19 10:08:04 Xinhua Senior finance officials from China and Brazil Sunday agreed to step up cooperation in fiscal and financial areas to advance bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.

SHANGHAI - Senior finance officials from China and Brazil Sunday agreed to step up cooperation in fiscal and financial areas to advance bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.

Finance officials from both countries met in Shanghai on Sunday ahead of the second BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors meeting.

Sunday's meeting was co-chaired by Shi Yaobin, vice-finance minister of China, and his Brazilian counterpart Marcello Estevao.

The two sides exchanged views and reached agreement on a range of issues including macro-economic policy, structural reform policy, cooperation under G20 and BRICS frameworks, taxation policy, and financial and investment cooperation.

Shi Yaobin said China was willing to enhance macro-economic policy coordination, work together with Brazil to improve global governance and seek more potential on two-way investment.

He added that China and Brazil were major emerging economies and important members of the G20 and BRICS, and that the two sides should explore potential in fiscal and financial cooperation to make good preparation for the BRICS summit in September.

Marcello said China and Brazil had a lot of potential for more cooperation, adding that as emerging markets and BRICS countries, the two nations had made contributions to global economy.

Brazil expected a great success of the BRICS summit in September, he said.
More than 290,000 Chinese doctors have undertaken standardized residency training since 2013, an official with the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC) said Friday.

Zeng Yixin, deputy head of the NHFPC, made the remarks at a conference on national residency training of doctors held in Beijing.

Three departments have been selected for a pilot project for the standardized training of specialists, according to a guideline issued by the NHFPC last year, Zeng said.

In 2013, an institution for standardized residency training of doctors was set up, and since then enrollment numbers have been rising, said Zhang Yanling, president of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association.

Prior to this, Chinese doctors were given between 3 to 6 years of residency training managed independently by and varying in content according to their individual hospital.

The standardized training has paid off over the years with graduates reaching international standards, and contributing to China's medical science and public health talent pool, Zhang said.

Improvements are still required in some aspects such as the philosophy of training, faculties, and training conditions, according to Wang Qiming from the Ministry of Education (MOE).

The MOE will join forces with the NHFPC to build a number of demonstration clinics at colleges, in order to make the most of the talent available at the colleges, Wang said.
Local governments and environmental organizations signed a memorandum of understanding on June 15 to boost protection of an important piece of coastal wetland in Tangshan, Hebei province.

The memorandum agreed upon by the World Wide Fund for Nature's operations on the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong, the Paulson Institute, Hebei's provincial forestry department and Tangshan's Luannan county government begins preparations to establish a reserve in Luannan's Nanbu wetland.

Nanbu wetland, located in the northern part of the Bohai Bay area, hosts mud flats, salt pans and aquaculture ponds.

Scientists explain the area is an important but unprotected wetland in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea region, and signing such a memorandum is important to its protection.

Long-term studies show the Luannan wetland is a critical stopover for many migratory shorebirds traveling between Australia and the Arctic. About 350,000 birds stop by annually to feed in the intertidal mud flats.

The volume of birds of 27 species that stop in the area surpasses 1 percent of their respective global populations.

But industrial development seriously threatens the mud flats, experts say.

Another two agreements were signed after the memorandum.

According to them, the WWF will fund Beijing Normal University's scientific investigations of the area, and the Paulson Institute will sponsor an institute to work on the reserves planning.

The WWF and the Paulson Institute, which have held discussions and done on-site investigations of the wetland with local governments and research organizations for years, will provide more assistance in the reserves planning, construction and acquiring approval from higher authorities.

The two organizations have promised to contribute to the protective management and environmental education needed once the reserve is founded.
An elderly woman dines at a nursing home in Hangzhou.[Sun Yidou / For China Daily]

THE STATE COUNCIL, China's Cabinet, recently issued guidelines on care services for the elderly. Based on the needs of senior citizens, the document sets out principles for the eldercare industry, as well as the welfare the elderly should enjoy, ranging from basic services, public facilities, to health and cultural services. Beijing Youth Daily comments:

By the end of 2015, China's empty nest elderly exceeded 110 million people, and by 2050 the total number of the elderly in the country is expected to reach 500 million, close to the total population of all the countries in Europe.

Some of the measures the document lists, if implemented, will help senior citizens a lot. For example, it said that all the elderly from poor families will get a minimum living allowance, while everyone aged 65 or above will get a free health examination every year.

Extending a helping hand to the aged, especially the poorest, has hit the nail on the head, because poor senior citizens are the most vulnerable group.

How to turn the welfare on paper into reality will depend on local governments increasing their investments into the social security system. In plain words, it is a question of money.

As early as September 2013, the State Council issued a document on further supporting the eldercare industry with tax incentives, more land supply, and the training of personnel.

However, four years have passed and the domestic eldercare industry is still in its early stage of development because the investment in it by local governments varies.

This time, in order to better implement the policy, local governments should give up thinking of making money from helping the aged, because the public eldercare sector hardly makes a profit and that is not its purpose. Even in the northern European countries where the eldercare industry is quite mature, local governments hardly make any money from it, and they have to invest hugely in it.

Of course, it is illusive to wholly depend on governmental investment, because that increases the financial burden on taxpayers and might be unsustainable in the long run. That is a problem not only for China, but also for the developed world, where doubts over high welfare have been increasing.

While local governments invest more in care for the aged, it is also necessary to encourage private companies to provide eldercare services and facilities.


ONE OF the end-of-term test papers of a vocational school in Zhengzhou, Henan province, began with three questions that contained their answers. The municipal education bureau said that the school lacks quality control of exam papers and is investigating. Southern Metropolis Daily comments:

The three questions at the beginning of an end-of-term exam in Zhengzhou Technical College were: Question 1: In which year was the world's first underground railway built in London? Question 2: In which city was the world's first underground railway built in 1863? Question 3: Which country is the first in the world to have an underground railway?

Everybody can see how ridiculous they are.

The local education bureau has not reached a final conclusion yet, but many people suspect that the teacher who drafted this exam meant to let his students pass so as to cover the poor quality of education provided by the college.

Such speculation is not without reason because the case is not the first of its kind.

Last May, three students from Lanzhou Jiaotong University complained in an open letter to their dean that more than 80 percent of their test questions were the same as those of the previous year. They also complained that was because many students hardly learned anything during the term and the teachers wanted to cover this up.

Many colleges and vocational schools are very strict when enrolling fresh students, but as soon as the students enter the schools, they tend to let the students easily graduate and get a diploma.

Besides, different colleges and vocational schools lack competition with each other. As a result, even if a college sets loose graduation standards, it won't suffer a credibility crisis. That is the essential reason why many college teachers and deans hardly care about education quality.

Only thorough reform can put an end to this.
ON FRIDAY, THE CENTRAL INSPECTION GROUP ANNOUNCED the results of its inspections of 14 key universities. Of all the problems it found, corruption among university-owned enterprises was the most common13 of the 14 universities inspected were found to have this problem. Beijing News comments:

Universities are not prohibited from owning and running their own enterprises; it is their outdated mode of management that has caused the problems.

Many university-owned enterprises make use of the resources and influence of the universities to seek profits, instead of serving the universities.

Worse, some of these enterprises involve corruption of university officials. In certain typical cases, university officials run enterprises in the name of the university, but they make profits for themselves.

As early as 2015, the Ministry of Education officially instructed universities to regulate their enterprises. According to the regulation introduced by the ministry, university-owned enterprises should serve as a platform for researchers to apply the results of their research or as incubators for small technological enterprises. However, the recent round of inspections shows the problems it was aimed at curbing still exist and remain quite serious.

In order to root out these problems, domestic universities must reform the enterprises under their names and adopt a modern enterprise management mode. If a university hopes to profit by running an enterprise, it should hire professional managers to run them like any modern company. Any investments or debts of the companies should be made transparent, the jobs of their staff should be made clear, and they should be put under the supervision of the universities concerned.

Last year, a new national policy was introduced that allows college researchers to serve part-time in enterprises to apply their research results in business. But more details are needed so as to prevent certain college professors from making money for themselves at the expense of the universities.

University-owned enterprises should serve the university, not the university officials that run them.
The State Council, China's Cabinet, recently announced it is setting up pilot zones for green finance reform and innovations.

The pilot zones will be in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and Guangdong, Guizhou, Jiangxi and Zhejiang provinces.

According to a State Council executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang, China will explore replicable ways to boost green financing in the four provinces and autonomous region that cover the east, central and west parts of China.

The central government will provide supporting fiscal, tax, and land policies for green industries and projects.

The State Council will also encourage the development of "green credit", taking the environmental credentials of companies into account.

Chen Yulu, vice-governor of the People's Bank of China, said at a news conference on Friday that green finance is developing rapidly in China, and the government will support and encourage the innovation of green financial products and services.

The pilot zones will explore reforms in six aspects of green finance including the system, market, products and services, and focus on institutional innovation, Chen said.

The emphasis will be on sustainability, and a positive incentive mechanism to promote the development of green finance will be established and further improved, he added.
There are many reasons why China is pursuing the Belt and Road Initiative. However, one of the least discussedbut perhaps most significantis related to population.

Readers of China Daily will be familiar with the demographic challenges China is likely to face in the next decades. A rapidly aging population, coupled with the drying up of surplus rural workforce, means China's status as the "factory of the world" is under grave threat.

One thing which almost all of the countries involved in the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road have in common is demographic conditions that are favorable to rapid industrial growth. Along with a large, young working-age population, the potential for economic growth is multiplied by the majority of current jobs being in low-productivity areas such as agriculture or informal, family work. Indeed, a transition toward "decent employment" with social and job security, rights and other requirements would be truly a welcome development.

Clearly, a strategic element of the Belt and Road Initiative is for Chinese companies to harness this demographic potential in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative as a response to the challenges at home.

Courtesy of US President Donald Trump, globalization has, in recent months, become a dirty word. However, it is important to remember that for many years, the concept has attracted many critics. Much of this criticism relates to the exploitation of workers around the world by countries and corporations which, in the search for maximum profits, perform a kind of "race to the bottom" in terms of wages and rights. In this vein, like a plague of locusts, companies set up shops, bleed a country dry, and then pack up and move on to the next place. There is little or no "value-added", merely exploitation.

There are, I'm sure, many who fear that this brand of 20th century globalization might lie at the heart of the Belt and Road Initiative.

But, as China knows very well, favorable demographic circumstances for a certain kind of industrial strategy are but a fleeting phenomenon. Looking 20 or so years down the line, if the Belt and Road Initiative is truly successful, then the favorable demographic circumstances will very quickly change. This is due to the close link between industrial growth, job opportunities and falling fertility. In other words, most of the countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative in the future will, demographically speaking, be like the China of today. How, then, can China attempt to "demographically future-proof" the initiative?

It is possible to develop very liberal migration policies which would constantly replenish the population in a way which would never be considered acceptable in China itself. Industries in the countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, then, could become "hubs" for regional migration. While perhaps effective in the short- to medium-term, the economic, social, political and cultural sustainability of this model is certainly up for question.

I would argue that in order to make the infrastructure investment worthwhile, and the growth sustainable, investing in developing education, skills and training is critical. This would create a more flexible, productive workforce which would be able to move up the value chain of innovation in the future.

Such a policy would also have other consequences. Now that the United States has pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement, China could further demonstrate its green credentials. We know that education is linked to improved awareness of environmental issues as well as climate change mitigation.

There are, for sure, many workers in need of jobs in the countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese employers can either be "bad" employers interested only in the bottom line, or "good" ones. As well as being more "demographically future-proofed", we also know that "good" employers who provide decent employment with protections, rights, training and other elements are generally rewarded with happier employees, higher productivity, improved retention and success in recruitment. China could be the ultimate "good employer". An example for countries, corporations as well as other businesses around the world that a better globalization can be set.

The author is visiting associate professor of Social Sciences at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
Since 2013, when MSCI, a United States-based provider of equity, fixed income, hedge fund stock market indexes, announced that it would consider the inclusion of China A-shares into its MSCI Emerging Market Index, China's equities market has undergone significant change. For example, the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect, launched in 2014 and 2016 respectively, provide overseas investors with access to more than 75 percent of China A-shares in terms of market capitalization.

In March 2017, the MSCI reopened its annual consultation on A-share inclusion. An affirmative outcome would not only be a major milestone for China's capital markets but also provide unprecedented benefits for global and onshore investors.

In June 2016, when the MSCI announced it would not include China A-shares, it made the following recommendations:

The removal of the 20 percent monthly Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor repatriation limit; the introduction of new trading suspension procedures; and the removal of restrictions on products linked to indexes that include China A-shares.

The revised March proposal introduced new criteria reducing the number of securities to be included from 448 to 169.

They include only large-cap companies accessible through the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Connect programs; exclusion of A-shares that have H-Share listings included in the MSCI China Index; exclusion of Index constituents that have been suspended for more than 50 days; exclusion of securities that have been suspended for more than 50 days in the past 12 months; and no fast-track inclusion of initial public offerings.

UBS strategist Gao Ting is optimistic about the possibility of A-share inclusion this year, because of the new proposal's potential to dispel investor concerns over liquidity and capital mobility. While pre-approval requirements for A-share linked financial products remain, a solution is being sought.

The Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges together would be the world's second-largest in terms of both market capitalization and trading value.

The inclusion of Chinese securities in a globally diversified portfolio is "a must" for any investor seeking truly global asset allocation. However, the 30-day correlation between the MSCI China Index and the Shanghai Composite Index is close to zerothe lowest correlation of the two indexes since 2006begging the question: Is the MSCI China Index still representative of the onshore China markets?

The sector composition of the MSCI China Index, which is skewed toward financials and information technology which account for 60 percent of the index's market capitalization, is vastly different from China's onshore markets. However, financials and information technology represent less than 30 percent of China's onshore market capitalization. On the other hand, industrials and materials account for less than 10 percent of the MSCI China Index, but are one-third of China's onshore market capitalization.

While inclusion of China A-shares will not immediately correct the dislocation, it will enhance the representation of China's onshore markets in global investor portfolios.

UBS estimates passive inflow resulting from the addition of 169 China A-shares to be $1.49 billion assuming a 5 percent partial inclusion factor. And, if active funds reallocate positions in line with the benchmark weight adjustments, another $8.1 billion inflow could emerge over the short term. The figure would increase to $27.61 billion if the stocks were included at 100 percent of their original weighting. About 64 percent of the free-float market capitalization would be listed in Shanghai, with the balance in Shenzhen.

The inclusion of China A-shares into the MSCI China Index is synonymous with the country's accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001. In the following decade, China's economy was boosted by both foreign direct investment and the increased sophistication in domestic industries that came with foreign participation.

The inclusion of A-shares in the MSCI will attract foreign institutional investors, who will bring with them new philosophies and valuation methods. The move can be expected to revolutionize the dynamics, demographics and sophistication of China's capital markets.

Tommie Fang is head of China Equities at UBS, and Ian Loh is an analyst of structured solutions at UBS.
A female giant panda named Shin Shin, which zoo officials say may be pregnant, is seen through a window glass at Ueno Zoological Park in Tokyo, Japan May 19, 2017. File photo. [Photo/Agencies]

Friendship may no longer be the catchphrase in China-Japan relations. But the black-and-white cuddly creatures from China continue to endear themselves to Japanese fans. In a notice announcing the birth of a giant panda cub posted at its entrance last Monday, Tokyo's Ueno Zoo has asked visitors to maintain silence in the panda enclave. The panda father, Ri Ri, is on solo show while the mother, Shin Shin, with her cub, is now on maternity leave.

"We would like to provide her (Shin Shin) with a calm and comfortable environment so that she can concentrate on childcare," the zoo notice says.

The zoo has reason to be careful about the newborn panda. In 2012, the panda couple lost their first cub six days after it was born, reducing the zoo director to tears. In 2013, Japanese panda fans were abuzz with the news of Shin Shin's second pregnancy, which, however, turned out to be a false alarm.

Congratulating Shin Shin, for the successful delivery, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike is planning to ask the Japanese public to suggest a name for the newborn. And after hearing that Shin Shin has successfully delivered a cub, 84-year-old Japanese entertainer and writer Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, said: "This is the happiest moment of my recent life."

Economists see pandas as a "good investment" as they attract more visitors and increase a zoo's revenue, especially if they give birth to cubs. In fact, Katsuhiro Miyamoto, professor emeritus at the Osaka-based Kansai University, has argued that Shin Shin's delivery will boost Tokyo's economy by 26.7 billion yen ($244 million) a year, as he estimates 5.66 million visitors will visit Ueno Zoo this year, up 47.2 percent from 3.8 million last year.

Pandas are a diplomatic symbol of China's goodwill and nurture political relations. "Panda diplomacy" can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907), as Empress Wu Zetian (624-705) sent a pair of pandas to the Japanese emperor as a gift.

On Nov 4, 1972, huge crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of two "bamboo-eating creatures" Lan Lan and Kang Kang that made their debut at Ueno Zoo. They were China's gifts to Japan to commemorate the normalization of bilateral ties. Their arrival sparked a Japanese craze called "the panda boom".

In 2008, when then president Hu Jintao paid a state visit to Japan, then Japanese prime minister Yasuo Fukuda told him about Japanese people's love of pandas and hoped that China would lease pandas to Japan for joint research. Fukuda made the request on April 30, a day after the death of Ling Ling, a panda gifted to Ueno Zoo in 1992.

China stopped gifting pandas to foreign countries because of a sharp decline in the number of pandas in the early 1980s. Since then, pandas have been only leased out for joint research.

Thanks to the agreement between China and Japan, Shin Shin and Ri Ri arrived at the Ueno Zoo in February 2011. They were ready for display shortly after the destructive earthquake and tsunami struck northeast Japan on March 11, 2011, bringing some joy to Japanese panda fans.

Japanese and Chinese officials were startled by the news of Shin Shin giving birth. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga described a panda, loved by many for its charming face and gestures, as "one of the great testaments to the Japan-China friendship". Calling a panda a friendly envoy of China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said he hoped pandas will continue to play a big role in strengthening friendship and improving relations between China and Japan, as well as other countries.

The New York Times once quoted Theodore Reed, former director of Washington-based National Zoo, as saying: "You like musk oxen, but pandas can steal your heart away." But can the panda cub born in Tokyo, with all its cuteness, help renew the friendship between China and Japan?

The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind.

The author is China Daily Tokyo bureau chief. caihong@chinadaily.com.cn
Last week was perhaps one of the most dramatic in modern British history.

Although Theresa May's Conservative party won the most seats in the general election, this was a Pyrrhic victory. This is one where an army nominally wins a battle, but does so at such a huge cost to itself that another such battle would bring catastrophe.

May's incompetent misjudgment of the popular mood continues unabated. Meanwhile the Labour Party led by Jeremy Corbyn has seen its ratings race ahead and, incredibly, everything indicates that, if there were a new election tomorrow, Labour would win a landslide majority. What a difference a week makes!

There are times when necessity is expressed through an accident. Such was the case with the horrific fire engulfing a high-rise tower block called Grenfell tower in Kensington, one London's wealthiest boroughs, but one where, only the week before, Labour scored its most dramatic and unexpected electoral victory.

The fire swept up the 24 story-building in the early morning so fast that many residents were unable to escape. The occupants of this 1970's building had for years prophesied impending disaster, indeed issuing a chilling warning last November that a fire with significant loss of life was inevitable.

The Conservative-led council, like many local governments around the country, had long worked hand-in-glove with property developers. Under the auspices of regeneration and improvement, unaccountable bodies systematically manipulated the local residents and signed contracts for all sorts of unnecessary building work.

At the same time the elementary needs of residents were ignored and their interests trampled on. Fire in such concrete high-rise blocks should remain isolated within the apartment affected. However, it appears that cladding attached to the exterior of the tower block during renovation work was responsible for the blaze sweeping up the building in minutes.

The death toll may well exceed 100. Most of the dead have either not yet been found, or not identified. On Friday, I was at the scene, where hundreds of people were milling around shell-shocked, some were wailing in grief. Soon, this mood turned to anger and then rage.

Whilst emergency response teams did what they could to save lives and comfort the injured, the local government has proven utterly incompetent; and Theresa May exacerbated the unpopularity of the national government by initially refusing to talk directly with those affected.

By contrast, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn went to the community, shared their grief, and promised to ensure that those responsible would be brought to justice. In addition, he called for empty luxury houses and apartments in the area to be requisitioned to house those made homeless by the fire.

This is the first time in my life that I sense the mood in British society is turning revolutionary. The Russian Marxist Vladimir Lenin identified the preconditions for a revolution as follows: That the ruling class is unable to rule in the old way; and the oppressed classes are unwilling to be ruled in the old way; and that an organization or leadership exists that is prepared to lead a movement for change.

The Conservative party would like to be rid of Theresa May. Her former chancellor, George Osborne, described the prime minister as "one of the walking dead." However, the party's leaders are terrified to remove her for fear of the consequences if this triggered a new election.

Yet, May has still not been able to form a government, although one is due to be announced this week. And, in an unprecedented move by the establishment, the 91-year-old Queen of England issued a somber letter to her subjects in an attempt to pacify popular anger.

Last Friday, a march by the enraged community around Grenfell Tower led to the storming of Kensington Town Hall to demand truth and justice. The police seemed unable, or perhaps unwilling, to use force lest the situation escalate out of control and copycat rebellions sweep the country. Small, but angry protests erupted that evening in central London.

Within the Labour Party, the majority of MPs despised Jeremy Corbyn only a month ago; however, when he walked into Parliament last week, these same MPs gave him a standing ovation. Now, one after another of his opponents have eaten humble pie and declared how wrong they were.

They hope thereby, to cling to their positions despite the anger of ordinary party members at their two-year campaign to sabotage his leadership. Now Corbyn and his team have called a giant demonstration for July 1 to draw on his growing popularity.

In this climate of seething anger, a radical switch in Britain's political direction is certainly on the cards.
A woman rappels down a waterfall during a canyoning excursion in Nepal, blessed with rich resources of rivers and waterfalls. Provided To China Daily

Bulbule Waterfall located in Nuwakot district, about 35 kilometers away from Nepal's capital Kathmandu, was once known as a place for taking cool baths during the summer.

But as soon as the Nepal Canyoning Association explored the 40-meter high waterfall, the place turned into a canyoning destination.

On a recent weekend, over 150 Nepalese and foreign visitors were in Bulbule as part of the 3rd National Canyoning Rendezvous 2017.

The canyoning fiesta was not just about sliding down a rope through a waterfall to a pool below, but included hiking, scrambling, abseiling, jumping and swimming.

"Nepal is blessed with thousands of rivers and waterfalls, but we have not been able to utilize them fully. We want to develop and promote canyoning destinations and make Nepal the best spot for adventure tourism," says Rajendra Lama, the president of the Nepal Canyoning Association.

Though canyoning has been gaining in popularity in Nepal since 2002, it gained official recognition and an organizational structure only in 2007 after the setting up of the Nepal Canyoning Association.

Today, there are more than 70 travel agencies under the association, and more than 30 canyons have been explored across the country.

Travel agencies provide canyoning packages in mountainous districts like Sindhupalchowk, Kavre, Nuwakot, Lamjung and Syangja.

Within Kathmandu valley, canyoning activities are available in Sundarijal, in the lap of Shivapuri National Park.

The Himalayan nation is regarded as the second-richest country after Brazil in water resources as it has more than 6,000 rivers, lakes, ponds, waterfalls and springs. But despite such resources, adventurers complain that the adventure activities available are mostly limited to boating and rafting.

Karna Bahadur Lama, the general secretary of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, says: "Nepal has a unique geography and richness in natural resources. And since tourism is the backbone of the country's economy, we need to tap into the opportunities to attract more foreign tourists."

In 2016, earthquake-ravaged Nepal attracted 729,550 foreign tourists, which is 24 percent more than 2015, the year of the devastating earthquake.

With tourism gradually recovering, entrepreneurs say that activities like canyoning can be a great way to attract and engage foreign tourists.

Canyoning is equally popular with Nepali youngsters. One of the major reasons for its growing popularity is social media, says the Nepal Canyoning Association.

"When we put out posts about the canyoning festival on social media, we received a huge amount of feedback and response from youngsters. Social media is a powerful tool for tourism promotion," the canyoning association president Lama says.

Nepal's canyoning follows international standards. There are more than 30 professional instructors in the country who have received training from American and French professionals, and who are familiar with the country's streams.

During the recent canyoning festival, more than a dozen instructors and volunteers handled the navigation and facilitated the outdoor activities.

While it was the first canyoning experience for most of the participants, they say that it is an unforgettable experience.

"It is the experience of a lifetime. I was scared initially but with proper instructions I got down safely. I would like to do it again," says 22-year-old student Sarose Chaudhary.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrives to vote at a polling station in the second round parliamentary elections in Le Touquet, France, June 18, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

PARIS  President Emmanuel Macron's party, including untested novices, will be sweeping into the lower house of the French parliament, hogging a clear majority of seats after winning an overwhelming victory in Sunday's elections and clinching the young leader's hold on power.

Macron fulfilled his wish to disrupt politics as usual with new faces  including a farmer, a teacher and a math genius  and a new approach. But he may be getting more than he bargained for with the entry into parliament of loud voices from the ultra-left and far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen, both promising to fight his plans to overhaul French labor laws, one of the touchiest subjects in France.

"Through their vote, a wide majority of the French have chosen hope over anger," said Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, reiterating his "total" determination to work on major reforms in the coming months.

A minor reshuffle of the Cabinet, an obligatory move after parliamentary elections, is expected this week, perhaps as soon as Monday.

The May 7 election of the 39-year-old Macron, himself untested, upended France's political landscape, a phenomenon that continued with the parliamentary victory of a party that didn't exist 14 months ago. With the June 27 start of the new session, the novices within the ranks of Macron's Republic on the Move! party will be learning at high-speed. Half of the candidates in the running for his party were drawn from civilian life, and half were women.

Starting Monday, many will be taking their first official steps in the corridors of power, invited to pick up keys and the blue-white-red sashes warn by elected officials, and learn their way around.

Pollsters projected Republic on the Move! and its allies could take up to about 360 of the lower chamber's 577 seats. Official partial results confirmed the trend, showing them with 327 seats, with 33 seats yet to be counted. The party will have far more than the 289 seats needed for an absolute majority to carry out Macron's program.

Mainstream conservatives and their allies, the closest rivals, held their ground better than expected. The Interior Ministry counted the Republicans and allied candidates with 131 seats, with 33 seats still uncounted.

The Socialist Party, which dominated the outgoing Assembly, was flattened by the unpopularity of former President Francois Hollande. With its allies, it could get fewer than 50 seats, according to projections. The stinging reality of defeat pushed party leader Jean-Christophe Cambadelis, who lost in last week's first-round vote, to resign  and blast the Macron system "with all the power."The Macron steamroller effect could be blunted with the entrance into parliament of some prickly opponents.

Far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who rivaled him for the presidency, won a seat representing her northern bastion around Henin-Beaumont with more than 58 percent of the vote. Her National Front party was expected to place up to eight lawmakers in the lower chamber, compared to two lawmakers in the outgoing Assembly.

Le Pen said she would "fight with all necessary means the harmful projects of the government," especially what she called Macron's pro-European, pro-migrant policies.

"We are the only force of resistance to the dilution of France, of its social model and its identity," Le Pen said, claiming the mainstream opposition parties were but "satellites" of the Macron power structure.

Le Pen's nemesis, the ultra-left Jean-Luc Melenchon, vowed a "social coup d'etat," saying Macron's plans to reform labor laws amount to "destruction of the social order." Unlike the National Front, Melenchon and his allies will have the required 15 lawmakers needed to form a group, a tool that provides extra funds, speaking time and other ways to weigh on policy.

Macron's bid to ease hiring and firing through a set of measures aimed at bringing down the unemployment rate  now just below 10 percent  is the most sensitive plan on his agenda. Unions fear it would destroy workers' protections.

Workers unions have already criticized the labor reform and the president's decision to skirt normal procedure to pass changes that would short-circuit extended debate and nix amendments. The measures must, however, be ratified by parliament.

Macron also wants to clean up politics to change the image of a political class dominated by career politicians, peppered with corruption and losing credibility. The new government has already presented a draft bill with new restrictions on how lawmakers operated.

Disillusion with the political class is one reason given for what is likely to be a record low participation rate that could outdo the record low in last Sunday's first round, measured at 43 percent  five points lower than last week.

Experts partly blamed voter fatigue following the May election of Macron, plus voter disappointment with politics.

Confusion also played a role, according to Frederic Dabi, of the IFOP polling firm.

Macron's party, which didn't exist 14 months ago and offered novice candidates from civilian life, has drawn from left and right to fill its ranks, effectively blurring the traditional left-right political divide.

Macron's party "vampirized" the left and right after his huge win in the presidential balloting, Dabi said on CNews TV.

AP
Firefightes work to put out a forest fire near the village of Fato, central Portugal, June 18, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

PEDROGAO GRANDE, Portugal  A raging forest fire in central Portugal killed at least 62 people as they desperately tried to flee, charring cars and trucks as it swept over roads. The disaster  the worst tragedy Portugal has experienced in decades  shook the nation, with the president declaring that the country's pain "knows no end."Almost 24 hours after the deaths Saturday night, fires were still churning across the forested hillsides of central Portugal. Police and firefighters were searching charred areas of the forest and isolated homes, looking for more bodies.

"It is a time of pain but also ... a time to carry on the fight" against the flames, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa told the nation in a televised address Sunday evening after the government declared three days of national mourning.

A huge wall of thick smoke and bright red flames towered over the tops of trees in the forested Pedrogao Grande area, 150 kilometers (95 miles) northeast of Lisbon where a lightning strike was believed to have sparked the blaze Saturday. Investigators found a tree that was hit during a "dry thunderstorm," the head of the national judicial police said.

Dry thunderstorms are frequent when falling water evaporates before reaching the ground because of high temperatures. Portugal is prone to forest fires in the dry summer months and temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) hit the area in recent days.

At least four other significant wildfires were burning Sunday elsewhere in Portugal but the one in Pedrogao Grande was responsible for all the deaths.

"The dimensions of this fire have caused a human tragedy beyond any in our memory," said Prime Minister Antonio Costa told reporters as he arrived at the scene Sunday. "Something extraordinary has taken place and we have to wait for experts to properly determine its causes."Interior Minister Constanca Urbano de Sousa said the death toll had risen to 62 by the end of Sunday. She said the country's judicial police was expecting to complete the identification of the bodies soon in order to release them as early as possible.

Interior Ministry official Jorge Gomes said firefighting crews were having difficulties battling the fire, which was "very intense" in at least two of its four fronts. He said authorities were worried about strong winds that could help spread the blaze further.

More than 350 soldiers on Sunday joined the 700 firefighters who have been struggling to put out the blaze, schools in the area were closed until further notice and outdoor fires were banned.
David M. Rubenstein, co-founder and managing director of the private equity firm the Carlyle Group, has been named chairman of the board of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) starting from July 1.

Rubenstein succeeds both former US Trade Representative Carla A. Hills, chairman and CEO of Hills & Company, and former US Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin, who are concluding their ten-year terms as co-chairs, according to a CFR press release on June 16 .

Rubenstein has been a CFR member and a Board director for more than a decade, and has served as vice-chair since 2012. He is also chairman of Duke University, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Smithsonian Institution.

Rubenstein is known for his "patriotic philanthropy" dedicated to preserving important historic documents, such as the Declaration of Independence, and to repairing the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

"CFR is among the great American institutions, and I am extremely proud and honored to have been selected as chairman," said Rubenstein in the CFR release. "This is a complicated and complex moment for both this country and the world, and the thoughtful, policy-relevant work of the Council and its scholars is needed more than ever."

CFR has recognized Hills and Rubin's years of service by naming them chairmen emeriti.

"David's broad experience, along with his deep appreciation of history, makes him uniquely suited to lead CFR as it heads into its second century," said CFR President Richard Haass. "The Board of Directors is united in its confidence that he will build on Carla and Bob's impressive legacy, as well as that of Pete Peterson and David Rockefeller before them."
Visiting Vice-Premier Liu Yandong (4th R) attends the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, Hungary, on June 18, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

BUDAPEST - Visiting Vice-Premier Liu Yandong attended Sunday the groundbreaking ceremony for a new building of the Semmelweis University's Faculty of Health Sciences in Budapest, the capital of Hungary.

The building will house the China-CEEC (Central and Eastern European Countries) Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Center.

The Chinese official was here to attend the opening ceremony of the third health ministers' forum between China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) scheduled for June 18 to 21 in Hungary.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine is a treasure of the Chinese nation, it does not only belong to China, but also to the world," she said at the ceremony.

President Xi Jinping and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced in May this year to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Hungary, she said, adding that the two governments proposed to deepen cooperation in the field of health, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

She said that this opened up vast space for Chinese medicine cooperation. "It is gratifying to see that Hungary takes the lead in legislating and enacting rules for practicing Chinese medicine in Europe, recognizing and accepting Chinese medicine for national service," Liu said.

"I hope that the two countries' universities will create together a high level platform of Chinese medicine education cooperation to train more Chinese medicine experts in need," she added.

She hoped that "the two countries' medical experts will work together in close collaboration, and take complementary advantages of Chinese and Western medicine, to explore a new model of Chinese and Western medicine to overcome disease."

"I hope that the Chinese medicine center will not only impart knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also show the traditional Chinese culture and philosophical wisdom, and promote the cooperation in Traditional Chinese Medicine between China and Hungary to become a bright 'business card' to deepen the health cooperation between the two countries and to promote cultural exchanges between them," she said.

State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Human Capacities Bence Retvari also said at the ceremony "This step is not only an important cornerstone for the Hungarian education, but also for the Chinese-Hungarian medical cooperation," adding "Traditional Chinese Medicine is going to play an important role in education, in research and also in healing."
Britain's Prime Minister, Theresa May, visits the scene of a tower block which was destroyed in a fire disaster, in north Kensington, West London, Britain June 15, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday afternoon responded to mounting public anger and announced wide and detailed support for the survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy.

May has been under increasing pressure since the extent of the tragedy at Grenfell Tower in West London became apparent.

A blaze at the 24-storey concrete social-housing tower in the Kensington district of the city killed at least 58 people, according to the latest figure from the London Metropolitan Police. The figure is expected to rise.

May said in a statement on Sunday afternoon: "As we continue to respond to the needs of the community, our focus is on ensuring that all of those affected by this unimaginable tragedy get the right support as quickly as possible.

"My government will continue to do absolutely everything possible to help all of those affected through the difficult days, weeks, months and years ahead."

May has been increasingly criticized since Thursday when she visited the disaster scene but talked only to senior officials in charge of the rescue efforts.

A further two visits to the area by May were criticized as inadequate, because she did not publicly meet survivors.

May held a two and a half hour meeting with survivors and community leaders on Saturday morning in her Downing Street home, and the announcement on Sunday of detailed plans to help survivors and residents is a response to that meeting.

In a press statement issued on Sunday evening, the survivors and residents who met May on Saturday said: "We are angry about the inadequacy of the response and the longstanding neglect of our buildings by the council and building management.

"We are grateful to the prime minister for listening to us and for the assurances she has given us but now we need to see real action and immediate results with centralised coordination of the relief effort with residents closely involved.

The survivors and residents also called for the government to take a serious look at the "neglect and chronic underfunding of social housing over decades".
David Davis, Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union arrives for a cabinet meeting at Downing Street in London, Britain, June 12, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON - The British Brexit minister David Davis will lead a team to Brussels Monday for the first round of official talks to negotiate Britain leaving the European Union (EU).

Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis described the talks as a mission to deliver on the will of the British people following the referendum of a year ago.

A statement issued by Davis' department Sunday in London said "Despite European leaders' attempts to leave open the possibility of Britain remaining in the UK, Davis will make it clear that he is determined to achieve a Brexit deal that works for the whole of the UK."

Davis will lead a team of experienced negotiators to Brussels, confident that he can get a positive outcome and secure a new deep and special partnership with the EU, said his spokesman.

"He will also set out a bold vision for the UK's future after it leaves the EU and the exciting opportunities that will arise from our exit," added the statement.

After ten months of planning, Davis will meet with the EU's Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier to agree the structure of the negotiations ahead, so officials have a framework within which to discuss substantive issues.

Davis said in a statement Sunday: "Now, the hard work begins. We must secure a deal that works for all parts of the United Kingdom, and enables us to become a truly global Britain."

"Leaving gives us the opportunity to forge a bright new future for the UK -- one where we are free to control our borders, pass our own laws and do what independent sovereign countries do," he said.

The start of the negotiations comes as work continues across the British government to prepare Britain for life outside of the EU.

This includes preparations for new bills on customs and immigration. It will also see the government introduce a Great Repeal Bill which will convert existing EU law into UK statute and enable the smoothest possible transition at the point of leaving.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said Sunday if the negotiations are done right, it could present huge opportunities for Britain.

"I believe it will be a great settlement between Britain and the EU," Johnson wrote in the Sunday Times newspaper, adding: "one that will end the bickering and resistance that has marked so much of our relationship over the last few decades."
NEW YORK  Wanted: 10,000 New Yorkers interested in advancing science by sharing a trove of personal information, from cellphone locations and credit-card swipes to blood samples and life-changing events. For 20 years.

Researchers are gearing up to start recruiting participants from across the city next year for a study so sweeping it's called "The Human Project." It aims to channel different data streams into a river of insight on health, aging, education and many other aspects of human life.

"That's what we're all about: putting the holistic picture together," says project director Dr. Paul Glimcher, a New York University neural science, economics and psychology professor.

There have been other "big data" health studies, and the National Institutes of Health plans to start full-scale recruitment as soon as this fall for a million-person project intended to foster individualized treatment.

But the $15 million-a-year Human Project is breaking ground with the scope of individual data it plans to collect simultaneously, says Dr. Vasant Dhar, editor-in-chief of the journal Big Data, which published a 2015 paper about the project.

"It is very ambitious," the NYU information systems professor says.

Participants will be invited to join; researchers are tapping survey science to create a demographically representative group.

They'll start with tests of everything from blood to genetics to IQ. They'll be asked for access to medical, financial and educational records, as well as cellphone data such as location and the numbers they call and text. They'll also be given wearable activity trackers, special scales, and surveys via smartphone. Follow-up blood and urine tests  and an at-home fecal sample  will be requested every three years.

Participants get $500 per family for enrolling, plus a say in directing some charitable money to community projects.

Researchers hope the results will illuminate the interplay between health, behavior and circumstances, potentially shedding new light on conditions ranging from asthma to Alzheimer's disease.

Their excitement comes with the responsibility of safeguarding the digital savings of a lifetime.

Protections include multiple rounds of encryption and firewalls. Outside researchers won't be able to see any raw data, just anonymized subsets limited to the information they need. They'll take nothing with them but their analyses  by hand, since the analyzing computers aren't connected to the internet, Glimcher said.

Lee Tien, a senior staff attorney at the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation , credits the Human Project researchers with taking security seriously. But he wonders whether authorities might seek to get at the information for investigations, though Glimcher maintains that the researchers could protect it from anything but major terrorism probes.

Glimcher knows The Human Project aspires boldly. In fact, its frequently-asked-questions list includes: "Is this possible? Are you crazy?"He points to one of medicine's most storied research efforts: The Framingham Heart Study , launched in 1948. Some 15,000 residents of Framingham, Massachusetts, have been examined over the years. The initiative has fueled more than 1,200 studies and revealed that blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking were linked to heart disease risk.

"If we could be seen as having contributed to American health care and well-being and education in the United States in the way that Framingham did, but magnified a hundredfold by the tools of today's data, what a fantastic accomplishment that would be," Glimcher says.

Nancy Spinale knows what it takes to be part of an accomplishment like that.

Her parents joined the Framingham study in 1948, she in 1971 and her husband and four children since then. Now 75 and living on Cape Cod, the retired teacher still undergoes an hourslong follow-up exam and interview every couple of years.

Her loved ones have gotten some personally useful information from exams. And she's gotten the pride of seeing studies come out, with information that could help everyone's health.

"That's the 'wow' feeling," she says.

AP
BEIJING - Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday called for closer cooperation among the BRICS countries.

Wang made the remarks when he talked to South African, Indian and Russian officials respectively ahead of a BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Beijing.

In the bilateral meeting with South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Wang said the BRICS countries, faced with increasing uncertainties in the international situation, should unite more closely and play a leading role in building a community of shared future for the mankind.

China stands ready to step up coordination with South Africa to strengthen the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as well as the BRICS mechanism, continuously expand the strategic cooperation between the two countries, and safeguard the common interests of the two nations and all other developing countries.

When talking to India's Minister of State for External Affairs Vijay Kumar Singh, Wang said China and India are both major countries with great influence, and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large.

When meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Wang said China is willing to deepen coordination with Russia to enhance strategic trust, boost economic and financial cooperation, increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges and strengthen the cooperation mechanism among the BRICS countries, with a view to making preparation for the upcoming 2017 BRICS Summit to be held in Xiamen.

The South African, Indian and Russian officials said they would work with the Chinese side to make the Xiamen Summit a success.
People react next to tributes to the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire near the site of the blaze in North Kensington, London, Britain, June 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

LONDON  London police said Monday that 79 people were now believed to have died in the high-rise apartment building fire.

Police Commander Stuart Cundy gave the new figure during a statement outside Scotland Yard, saying it includes both people who were confirmed dead and others who are missing and presumed dead. It's an increase from the previous number of 58.

The new number may change as the investigation continues, Cundy said. He said that the search and recovery operation in the 24-story Grenfell Tower continues, he said, adding that it has been incredibly distressing for families.

"It's hard to describe the devastation the fire has caused," Cundy said, fighting back tears as he spoke.

He said it had been "incredibly emotional working in there ... On Saturday, I went in myself and went to the top floor."He told reporters the "awful reality" was that it might not be possible to identify all the victims.

Cundy said that authorities were continuing to investigate whether any crimes had been committed in the fire. Two British officials said Sunday that new exterior cladding used in a renovation of the high-rise may have been banned under UK building regulations.

AP
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (front) addresses the opening ceremony of the Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Beijing, capital of China, June 19, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Monday that the BRICS cooperation has shown strong vitality during the past ten years.

Wang made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Brazilian Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes and India's Minister of State for External Affairs Vijay Kumar Singh.

He said BRICS cooperation has greater importance, as the five countries' share in global economy has increased from 12 percent to 23 percent in the past decade while they have contributed more than half of global growth.

Trade and investment among the five countries have increased sharply, and their cooperation expanded from economy to political fields and people-to-people exchanges, Wang said.

The BRICS countries have strengthened coordination within the UN and G20 framework to safeguard the interests of developing countries, and contributed wisdom to cope with global challenges, he said.

This year marks the beginning of the second decade of BRICS cooperation, and China holds the BRICS rotating presidency, Wang said, adding that the country stands ready to work with all sides to contribute to worldwide stability and prosperity, as well as the healthy development of multilateralism.

A media note published at the meeting said that the ministers commended the fruitful cooperation forged in the past and look forward to continued and positive cooperation among BRICS countries.

They appreciated the work by China as it holds BRICS chairmanship for 2017, and reiterated their commitment to the success of the Ninth BRICS Summit under the theme of "BRICS: Stronger Partnership for a Brighter Future," it said.

The ministers recommitted their strong support to the central role of United Nations in international affairs, and committed to strengthening the coordination and cooperation among BRICS in the areas of mutual and common interest within the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, including through regular meetings among their permanent representatives in New York, Geneva and Vienna, and further enhancing the voice of BRICS in international fora.

On the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the ministers underscored the importance of its full implementation within the framework of revitalized global partnership for sustainable development.

The ministers also welcomed the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change on 4 November 2016 and urged all countries to implement the Paris Agreement under the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change including the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

On terrorism, they deplored the continued terrorist attacks, including those in some BRICS countries, and condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever.

The ministers highly valued the Second BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group Meeting held in Beijing on 18 May and called for an expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN General Assembly.

On international and regional issues, they supported political and diplomatic solutions for conflicts, such as those in Libya and on the Korean Peninsula, and promoted preventive diplomacy in a consensus-based manner.

The ministers looked forward to their meeting on the margins of the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and welcomed South Africa's offer to host the next stand-alone meeting in 2018.
LONDON - British Prime Minister Theresa May Monday condemned the latest terror attack targeting worshippers who were leaving a mosque in London, describing it as sickening as recent ones to hit Britain.

A 48-year-old white man drove a hired van into a group of Muslim worshippers early Monday morning, killing one and injuring 10 others, some seriously.

It was the third attack in London since March and the second using a vehicle as a deadly weapon.

May chaired a meeting in London of the national emergency committee, known as Cobra, to discuss the latest incident. Later she said the terror attack was every bit as sickening as recent ones to hit Britain.

May said the driver of the van had acted alone and the Metropolitan Police declared the attack as a terrorist incident within eight minutes.

May said: "Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed. There has been far too much tolerance of extremism over many years."

"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country," she said.

"There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years and that means extremism of any kind including Islamophobia," the prime minister added.

Eyewitness said the attacker deliberately was driving the large van into a crowd of worshippers leaving a mosque.

The recent attacks on Westminster Bridge and London Bridge saw Muslim extremists using the same tactic, vehicles as a weapon of death.

The 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is being questioned by detectives.
Britain and the European Union started formal talks on Monday on the UK's departure from the EU, with the British government still wracked by internal disagreement over what kind of deal they want.

Britain's Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union David Davis speaks at the European Commission ahead of their first day of talks in Brussels, Belgium, June 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

UK Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, David Davies, sat down with his team to start the process with Michel Barnier and his aides.

Davies said he was approaching the talks with a "positive and constructive" frame of mind, and Barnier told reporters "We must deal first with problems thrown up by Britain's exit. I want to be able to present a constructive report to my colleagues."

British officials indicated Prime Minister Theresa May was prepared to offer an early concession, guaranteeing the rights of EU residents living in the UK, in return for similar EU guarantees for UK citizens living in mainland Europe.

The system worked out by both sides calls for a monthly cycle two weeks of officials laying out that month's negotiating points, followed by a week's hard bargaining between Davies and Barnier. The fourth week will allow both sides to brief their respective governments - 27 in the case of the EU before moving on to the next agreed agenda item.

The UK government's ruling Conservative Party is divided over the what deal to accept, with long-standing opponents of EU membership demanding a so-called "hard Brexit" and others, including Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond, urging a "soft Brexit," which could include remaining in the single customs union, accepting free movement of EU citizens, and continuing to recognise the Europe Court of Justice.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, whose abrupt decision to back the Leave campaign last year is believed to have swung the vote in favour of departure, said on Sunday he favoured a softer approach.

"We are going to deliver not a soft Brexit or a hard Brexit, but an open Brexit, one that ensures that that the UK is still turned outwards, and more engaged than ever before."

One option being touted by some members of the British government is the so-called Norway solution.

Norwegians opted not to join the EU as full members but as a member of the European Economic Area, it is allowed to remain in the single market, thus avoiding tariffs on goods, and paying less into the EU budget.

Norway accepts freedom of movement, but government experts here believe Britain could opt out in certain circumstances, or agree with the EU that a temporary brake could be put on numbers.

There has already been a reaction to Brexit  earlier this month health authorities reported a dramatic slump in the number of EU nurses applying to work in Britain's National Health Service.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council said the number of applications fell from over 1,300 last July to just 34 this April. It said the NHS has a shortage of 30,000 nursing staff.

Senior government officials hope May's offer on citizens, to be made in Brussels by her in person, will be seen as a conciliatory move by the UK towards the EU, which has so far been unwavering in its approach to the talks, which are a consequence of May signing the formal letter known as Article 50, which signalled the UK's desire to leave the EU.

Britain has been demanding that discussions to leave the EU should run parallel to trade talks, but the EU team is insisting that the mechanics of departure, including the settlement of any outstanding financial commitments, should be sequential.

Officials said Davies and his team may accept that talks had to be sequential, rather than the parallel discussions they had envisioned.
London police dealt with the third major terror attack in the capital involving a vehicle after a van ploughed into a crowd of worshippers outside a mosque in the northern part of the city. The Muslim Council of Britain said it was an intentional attack.

One man died and 10 were injured in the attack, early on Monday morning. The van driver, a 48-year old white man, was arrested and held on suspicion of attempted murder, police said.

Ben Wallace, the security minister, told Sky News that the suspect was not known to the police in the context of the far right wing groups.

Prime Minister Theresa May told reporters the second attack on London this month was as sickening as those which has come before. "It was an attack that once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives. This time it was British Muslims as they left the mosque having broken their fast and prayed together at this sacred time of year,"she said.

Police said worshippers who had left the Seven Sisters Mosque, in Finsbury Park, were helping a man who had collapsed at a bus stop from an apparent heart attack seconds before the van appeared.

Eyewitness Abdul Rahman said a man leapt out of the van and he and other Mosque attendees tackled him and held him on the ground as he shouted "I want to kill all Muslims.

London has been the scene of two vehicle attacks on pedestrians by Islamic extremists. In March five people were killed, including an unarmed police officer, when a man drove an SUV into pedestrians and then stabbed policeman to death before being shot by police.

Earlier this month three men drove a hired van into pedestrians on London Bridge, before going on a stabbing rampage in nearby Borough Market. Eight people were killed and many others injured before police marksmen killed the trio, who were all wearing fake suicide vests.

In the other major incident to shake the capital, police said they now believe 79 people were killed when fire tore through the 24-storey Grenfell Tower block in west London last week.
The fourth China-Russia Expo, which concluded today in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang province, achieved more than 30 billion yuan worth of foreign trade contracts signed with Chinese companies.

The five-day event was hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, Heilongjiang provincial government and Russia's Ministry of Economic Development and Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Upgraded to China-Russia Expo in 2014 to focus on bilateral cooperation between China and Russia, the expo was formerly called the China Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, an annual cooperation project between China and Russia since 1990.

Aimed to expand common ground for the building of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Eurasian Economic Union, this year's China-Russia Expo also served as a platform to strengthen bilateral cooperation and exchanges and promote the common development of countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road, according to the Expo Committee.

"The expo has built a platform for the overall bilateral exchanges and played an important role in promoting bilateral trade and economic development," said Sun Chenghai, director of the Foreign Trade Development Bureau of MOFCOM. "The Expo will not only cover the traditional areas of cooperation between China and Russia, but also pay special attention to highlight the scientific and technological innovation and cooperation, which effectively promotes cooperation in the practical areas of the two countries."

"Through the China-Russia Expo and rich business activities, we will positively promote the bilateral economic and trade cooperation, and make efforts to reach the goals made by the leaders of the two countries as soon as possible," said Popov Evgeny, an official from the Russian Ministry of Economic Development.

More than 16,000 business representatives from 74 countries and regions participated in the expo, which accommodated 2,550 booths in a total exhibition area of 86,000 square meters.

Representatives from China and Russia had exchanges in fields like trade promotion, cross-border e-commerce, modern agriculture, customs clearance, transport and logistics, resources development, electronic and mechanical innovation, culture tourism and youth exchanges.

On its 84 square-meter booth, Russia's Vi Holding Group displayed aluminum alloy continuous rolling products that were produced in the Yulian Group's industrial park in Henan province.

Since 2006, Vi Holding has invested more than $3 billion in Yulian and is China's biggest private investor from Russia.

"This is our first time to take part in the expo," said Valeri Krasnov, Vi Holding's vice-president. "China is a great investment market and we received support from both China and Russia. We believe the expo can become the platform for us to show our successful experience in China and make the Russian enterprises who want to invest here know how to do it."

"China and Russia have formed many cross-border industries in recent years and Heilongjiang also benefits from it. Heilongjiang finds confidence through the China-Russian Expo, but also finds opportunity and direction of development. It is hoped that the China-Russia Expo can build platforms for more enterprises," said E Zhongqi, the chairman of the Council for the Promotion of International Trade of Heilongjiang.
Premier Li Keqiang told Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a telephone call on Monday night that China is willing to work with Canada in promoting trade liberalization and investment facilitation, and strengthening cooperation in fields such as clean energy and the environment.

The two countries have launched an economic and financial strategic dialogue, and the third round of free-trade zone feasibility studies is also to begin soon, Li told Trudeau during the call.

He said that China is willing to accelerate an alignment with Canada's development strategies, deepening cooperation in fields such as trade, investment and agriculture, as well as boosting cooperation in third-party markets.

Trudeau said his country would like to expand cooperation with China in various fields, and that Canada is also willing to enhance exchanges in tourism and other fields when strengthening communication and coordination of international affairs with China.

On climate change, Li said China is striving for green, low-emission and sustainable development, which is needed for domestic economic transformation and also is a responsibility for China to fulfill a common destiny with other countries. China will work with other countries, including Canada, to cope with challenges and better carry out the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development of the United Nations, he said.

Trudeau said he appreciates China's stance on climate change and the role that the world's second-largest economy has played. Canada will increase exchanges with China in this area, he said.
The same architect who designed the 9/11 Memorial in New York City has been asked to design a memorial for the victims of the Charleston Church shooting.



The shooting occurred just over two years ago, on June 17th, 2015 at the historic Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina. On that tragic day, nine church members were shot and killed by Dylann Roof, who was recently sentenced to the death penalty.



The families of the victims and other members of the church made headlines after the horrific event by offering forgiveness to Roof and showing the nation a spirit of unwavering trust in God.



Israeli-American architect Michaed Arad knows what a huge privilege and responsibility it is to be chosen to design the memorial for the church, which will be erected on church grounds.



Arad was chosen from more than 5,000 applicants to design the 9/11 Memorial, reports the Huffington Post, so his skill for designing is undisputed.



I feel very privileged to be here, Arad said during the announcement of his selection for the project. But I also feel the weight of this responsibility and pray that I will find the means to convey the beauty that Ive seen here in Charleston.



The churchs current pastor, the Rev. Eric Manning, said he hopes Arads memorial will evoke the weight of the tragedy, while at the same time inspiring hope and change in the world.

Publication date: June 19, 2017
Irans military claimed Sunday that it had launched several missiles aimed at Islamic State fighters in Syria.

The missile strikes were in response to attacks on Tehran on June 7. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had vowed revenge for the deadly attacks. The missile strikes are also the first time Iran has fired missiles at another country in 30 years.

According to Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Sepah News, several ground-to-ground, mid-range missiles were fired from bases in western Iran and targeted Takfiri forces in the Deir Ezzor region in eastern Syria.

Takfiri is Irans Revolutionary Guards term for ISIS.

Lt. Col (ret) Rick Francona, a military analyst for CNN, said Irans missile strike is a real escalation.

"The selection of targets is interesting. They say they are firing at the same people who planned the attacks in Tehran but it also bolsters the Syrian army effort right now, he said.

Some 12 people were killed when six attackerssimultaneously mounted gun and suicide bomb assaults on Tehrans Parliament building and the tomb of Irans founder.

Irans Revolutionary Guards say that Saudi Arabi supported ISIS in the twin attacks.

Iran, which is Shiite majority, and Saudi Arabie, which is Sunni-majoriy, have long been sectarian rivals.

Photo courtesy: Thinkstockphotos.com

Publication date: June 19, 2017
One young family in Montana has been caught in the middle of a major international incidentall because theyve committed their resources, time, and love to expanding their family through adoption.

On April 21, the government of Ethiopia halted all adoptions to families outside its borders. This decision "has left more than 200 U.S. families, and as many Ethiopian children, in a difficult and heartbreaking position," to quote a letter sent from 122 Members of Congress to Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn on May 30.

Nathan and Jill Bilyeu of Helena, Montana are one of those families. The couple and their two children knew for years they were called to adopt, and last year took steps to begin the process.

On June 1, the U.S. State Department noted that Ethiopia has approved some adopted children to be released to their American parentsbut many remain waiting, as the Bilyeu family reveals in an interview from their home.

Christian Headlines: Why did you decide to open your home for adoption?

Jill Bilyeu: We've always wanted to adopt. As both Nate and I have had experiences in countries with less opportunity for people than the U.S., we felt God put international adoption on our hearts and it never went away.

Going into orphanages and seeing them full of children made the need realand it was something attainable, like I could give them a home and a family.

Nathan Bilyeu: I agree. For me, the stark statistical reality is that orphans in low-income countries are incredibly unlikely to experience a life with even their basic needs being provided to them as they grow into adulthood.

Christian Headlines: How long have you been engaged in the adoption process with Ethiopia?

Nathan: We have been connected to the idea of adopting from Ethiopia for years. We have friends from Ethiopia, friends who work there, and friends who have adopted from there. We just had to wait until we could afford to do it.

Jill: We sent the application to adopt in October of 2016. In the beginning it moved so fastwe had a referral by December! We were so excited and we gave our love to him freely. Two weeks after the referral, that little boy went to be with the Lord.

What an emotional roller coaster! We mourned the loss of that sweet baby and wrestled quite a bit with God.

Christian Headlines: What did you feel when you learned that Ethiopia has suddenly halted adoptions from the U.S. and any outside nation?

Jill: This was exceptionally difficult for us. By the end of January, we received another referral. Our new little girl was sick, in and out of the hospital most of March. I just wanted to be there to take care of her.

There was also fear that we might lose this child too. So when the closure hit in April, our hearts felt as if they had very little left to hope.

Nathan: It really is a helpless feeling. We just want to have our daughter here with us as soon as possible.

Christian Headlines: Have you had success reaching out to Congress on this issue?

Nathan: Yes. Senator Steve Daines joined 46 other Senators in signing a letter to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia asking that Ethiopia lift its temporary ban on intercountry adoptions. We were impressed by the care and professionalism of Senator Daines and his staff, who continue to follow up with us on the issue.

Jill: Yes, we are very grateful for how quickly Senator Daines' office responded.

Nathan: This letter, signed by both Democrats and Republicans serving in the House and Senate, is a really effective statement. It reads in part, "While we respect your governments decisions regarding future adoption policy in Ethiopia, we ask for your help in resolving expeditiously cases that were already underway on April 21."

These 122 Members of Congress continue: Our constituents want to provide loving, safe families to those in need and simply wish to bring their adopted children home in a timely fashion and in accordance with the law.

Christian Headlines: Some voices in our culture criticize Christian families who adopt, pointing to mixed motives about proselytizing minors. How do you respond?

Jill: Our motive has always been to give a child a home, a family.

Nathan: I know many people who have been adopted by Christians and I've never heard one person say they wish they hadn't been adopted by their families. I think such criticism tends to come from those in positions of comfort who have never longed for somebody, anybody, to care for them and call them daughter or son.

Christian Headlines: For Christians desiring to help, what action steps should they take?

Jill: We ask for prayer, which is so simple yet we have experienced His power in it.

Nathan: If you can, please contact your Representatives and Senators and simply ask them to do what they can to ensure that international adoptions remain open in Ethiopia.

What if we could get all 535 Members of Congress to co-sign the next letter to Ethiopia? We believe adoption is a good and true cause that both parties can back without reservation. So many children need families.

Josh M. Shepherd has served on staff at The Heritage Foundation, Focus on the Family, Bound4LIFE International, and two Congressional offices. His articles have appeared in media outlets including The Daily Signal, Boundless, Charisma Magazine and Christian Headlines, where he serves as a contributor. He earned a degree in Business Marketing from the University of Colorado. Josh and his wife live in the Washington, D.C. area. Follow Josh on Twitter @joshMshep.

Photo: Nathan and Bilyeu of Helena, Montana and their two children are prepared to expand their family through adopting an Ethiopian girl, a process recently halted by the Ethiopian government.

Photo courtesy: Bilyeu Family

Publication date: June 19, 2017


The most recent chapter in the story of Americas relationship with its Confederate past began in church.

Since Dylann Roof, a rebel flag-waving white supremacist, opened fire at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal in Charleston two years ago, the debate over historical markers of the Civil War South has taken on more urgency and more widespread concern.

The flags came down first, starting with the contentious one that flew on South Carolinas capitol grounds. A year after the Mother Emanuel massacre, the Southern Baptist Convention called on Christians to stop displaying the Confederate flag. The Episcopal Church made a similar statement, and its National Cathedral in Washington, DC, opted to remove two images of the flag in its stained glass windows.

Communities and institutions shifted their discussions around their own landmarks, namesakes, and long-ago history; most notably, New Orleans spent two years eliminating its Civil War monuments, the last of whicha statue ...

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Sanya Richards-Ross won Olympic Gold medals in 2004, 2008, and 2012 and was considered the best 400-meter female runner for over a decade. Her latest book, Chasing Grace: What the Quarter Mile Has Taught Me about God and Life (Zondervan), explores her spiritual journey through both victories and failureslosing and winning races, facing disappointments in relationships on and off the track, enduring the pain of Behcets disease, and making the decision to have an abortion just before the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.

When I was in my valley, in my pit, says Richards-Ross, and I felt so far out of Gods grace and had so much guilt and so many negative emotionswhich the devil uses to trick usI realized that nothing can separate us from the love of God. Its so different from track, where you are chasing for one spot. But God just wants us to yearn for him, and that for me is the biggest lesson I learned. Im just so glad I ran into grace.

Richards-Ross spoke recently with CT.

While I was reading your book, I thought a lot about the places in the Bible where the Christian life is compared to a race. Sometimes I struggle with the tension between accepting Gods grace and also working hard to run to the finish line. Does your experience as a runner give you a way to understand this dynamic between grace and work?

That totally encompasses how I landed on the title of my book, Chasing Grace. As the book evolved, I did realize that I have always been chasingI chase after records, I chase after my goals, I chase after my dreams. The word chasing has always been very important and resonated deep within me. But the best thing we have on the journey ...

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Leader in Online Christian Education Releases a Major Upgrade to Improve Student Experience

Contact: John Rotheray, Sevenstar, 513-612-1029, info@sevenstar.org



PLANO, Texas, June 19, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Sevenstar, a world leader in online Christian education, is pleased to announce that it updated its Learning Management System (LMS) to Agilix Buzz in April.



Sevenstar's online learning platform is used by hundreds of Christian schools in over 40 countries, and the upgraded LMS has already benefited thousands of students taking online courses in 6-12th grade.



The Buzz LMS includes many upgrades that students and schools will love this summer and fall, such as:

A mobile-friendly and responsive design



Improved navigation and user interfaces



Faster browsing and page loading



New activity streams that show all work



Updated calendars with new features



Brand-new grade pop-up windows

Bocavox provided the integration needed for Sevenstar to support Buzz's latest capabilities in the Maestro Student Information System (SIS).



Sevenstar recently upgraded to the latest Maestro SIS cloud platform, which includes new security and scalability enhancements to a robust platform that has helped Sevenstar serve an organizational hierarchy with three levels of partnerships, supporting tens of thousands of online course payments and student information, as well as communications, notifications, and a number of activities unique to anytime/anywhere learning, since 2007.



Learn more about Sevenstar and our technology partners:

Sevenstar Contact Info



Email: info@sevenstar.org

Phone: (513) 612-1029

Mail: 1400 Preston Road, Suite 400

Plano, Texas 75093
Residents Pledge Tobacco-Free Effort Following Health Awareness Drive

GFA-supported workers warn of dangers of tobacco to help demonstrate that 'God cares for the whole person'

WILLS POINT, Texas, June 19, 2017 / Christian Newswire / -- Residents of a community in northern India have pledged to make it tobacco-free following a health awareness drive by Gospel for Asia (GFA)-supported workers.

Photo: GFA (Gospel for Asia)-supported workers passed out health awareness leaflets to mark World No Tobacco Day and demonstrate God's care for people in body, mind and spirit.

Carrying placards and handing out advisory leaflets about the dangers of smoking, teams visited villages and neighborhoods recently as part of a World No Tobacco Day initiative spotlighting the health dangers. Commuters and residents received the literature, which included the leaflet "Do you know the disadvantage of smoking?"

Around 900,000 people a year die from smoking-related causes in India. Though smoking in public has been banned in the country since 2008, the prohibition is routinely ignored in rural communities away from major urban centers. In addition to cigarettes, "beedis"--tobacco wrapped in a leaf and widely considered to be more harmful than regular cigarettes--are popular.

"So many people are unaware of the dangers of smoking, how it can lead to poor health and have consequences not only for the individual but their family too," said Dr. K.P. Yohannan, founder and director of GFA. "By offering this information, we wanted to show that God cares for the whole person--body, mind and spirit."

GFA-supported workers walked to different communities and passed out literature along the way. Several thousand leaflets were distributed, including some warning about the dangers of alcohol abuse.

At one event, residents expressed appreciation for the information. "I am motivated by the program and will encourage my neighbors and parents to stop using tobacco," said a woman living there.

Another resident said that she believed the initiative could make a big difference. "Along with other villagers, I would like try our best to make our village a 'tobacco-free village','" she said.

One of the GFA-supported workers explained why he was glad to have taken part in the program "When I see people are dying because of smoking, and their family suffers, my heart pains," he said.

Yohannan said that the anti-smoking drive was intended to reflect Jesus' care for every dimension of a person's life.

"Jesus not only touched people's hearts, he also cared for their physical well-being," he said. "Our desire is for people to experience longer, healthier and fuller life in him."
home World About half of Iraqi and Syrian Christians have fled from their homelands since 2011, report says

A new report prepared by three Christian advocacy groups has estimated that about 50 to 80 percent of Christians living in Iraq and Syria have been killed or have fled their respective countries since 2011.

It has been estimated that there were over 300,000 Christians in Iraq in 2014, but the number has been reduced to 200,000a250,000. In Syria, the Christian population of around 2 million in 2011 has "roughly halved," according to the report produced by Christian charities Open Doors, Served and Middle East Concern.

The investigative study noted that the Christians who are now residing elsewhere have "little incentive" to return to their homelands, with several interviewees saying, "the Middle East is no longer a home for Christians." It stated that the arrival of the Islamic State terror group was only the "tipping point" for the displacement of Christians, who have experienced an "overall loss of hope for a safe and secure future."

Among the factors offered by interviewees for leaving their homelands were the violence, the lack of employment and educational opportunities, the emigration of others and the consequent loss of community, and the near-complete destruction of some historically Christian towns.

The report, titled "Understanding recent movements of Christians from Syria and Iraq to other countries across the Middle East and Europe," further noted that most Christians have resettled in Lebanon while thousands of others are now residing in Jordan and Turkey. A smaller number of Christians have fled to European countries such as Sweden and Germany, but recent policy changes and living conditions have made it more difficult for refugees to stay in such countries.

A policy paper released along with the report has called on the European Union to establish an "accountability mechanism" to deal with grievances related to incidents of religious and ethnic persecution and discrimination in Iraq and Syria.

While many nations have offered to take in Christian refugees fleeing the conflict in the Middle East, few have offered support to enable them to remain in their homeland.

A notable exception would be Hungary, which has donated five million euros to aid persecution Christians in the region, according to Breitbart News. Last fall, it became the first country in the world to establish a government department that deals specifically with the persecution of Christians in the Middle East and Europe.

The charities that produced the report stated that "many" of those who remain in their homelands "want to play their part in rebuilding the shattered societies of Iraq and Syria."

"They want to be seen as Iraqi or Syrian citizens, enjoying the full rights of citizenship, such as equality before the law and full protection of their right to freedom of religion or belief, including the ability for everyone to freely worship, practise, teach, choose and change their religion. They are not calling for special privileges as a religious minority," the report noted.
home World ACLU launches case to stop deportation of Iraqi Christians

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed a case to stop U.S. Immigration officials from deporting more than 100 Iraqi nationals, some of whom are Christians fearing that they will be persecuted if they are sent back to Iraq.

At least 114 Iraqis have been arrested in raids conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Detroit, Michigan earlier this month. The arrests came after the Iraqi government agreed to take back immigrants who are subject to removal from the U.S.

On Thursday, the ACLU filed a class-action lawsuit to stop the deportation of the detainees, arguing that they must have the chance to prove that they could face torture or death if they are sent back to their native country.

"Not only is it immoral to send people to a country where they are likely to be violently persecuted, it expressly violates United States and international law and treaties," Kary Moss, executive director of ACLU Michigan, stated in a news release, according to MLive.

"We are hoping that the courts will recognize the extreme danger that deportation to Iraq would pose for these individuals," she added.

ICE spokeswoman Gillian Christensen noted that most of the detainees had previous criminal convictions ranging from burglary to murder.

The ACLU argued that many of the detainees had been picked up for minor offenses and most of them have been "fully compliant with their conditions of supervision and have had no further run-ins with the law."

Rebecca Adducci, field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Detroit, said that the operation in Michigan was conducted to "address the very real public safety threat represented by the criminal aliens arrested."

"The vast majority of those arrested in the Detroit metropolitan area have very serious felony convictions, multiple felony convictions in many cases," Adducci said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Iraqi government has previously refused to take back Iraqi nationals with criminal records from the U.S., but the policy changed three months ago after it agreed to accept deportees as part of a deal to remove Iraq from President Donald Trump's travel ban.

According to Al Jazeera, most of the Iraqi nationals who were picked up in the operation were Chaldean Catholics, but Shia Muslims and Christian converts were also arrested. Immigration agents also arrested Kurdish Iraqis in a raid conducted in Nashville, Tennessee.

Chaldean Catholics, who are mainly based in northern Iraq, began migrating to the Detroit area in the 1920s. The Chaldean Community Foundation has estimated that around 200,000 Chaldeans are currently living in the U.S.
home World Anglican church in Sydney bans yoga classes to avoid 'spiritual confusion'

A church in Sydney, Australia has reportedly banned yoga classes from its premises over concerns that the practice could cause "spiritual confusion" and that it may lead to "worshipping false gods."

The Anglican Church in Erskineville will no longer allow yoga classes in its hall after June 30 and other churches across the region have been told by the Sydney church to review such classes that are held on church premises, The Daily Telegraph reported.

The review came after the Social Issues Committee issued a report at the 2015 Synod urging the churches to stop renting spaces for yoga classes "on account of the spiritual confusion this may cause."

The committee argued in the report that yoga must be banned from the church and school halls because it "emerges from an Eastern religious background."

In acknowledging the report, the Synod cited the First Commandment to point out that "as Christ's disciples" they must "avoid participating in the worship of false gods."

The report also suggested that other activities like tai chi, dragon boating and some martial arts must be reviewed because they are contrary to the gospel.

A diocese spokesman noted that the church was reviewing classes on church premises where there was spiritual teaching involved, "as opposed to yoga positions done merely for the sake of exercise."

"The review is ongoing in a number of churches. In the case of Erskineville, conversations have been entered into with class providers but no final decision has yet been taken," the spokesman said.

However, two yoga teachers have claimed that church officials have told them that their rental agreements with an inner west church would not be renewed after July 1 if they continue yoga classes.

One teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, said he will rename the classes to "mindful movement therapy" to get around the church ban. He explained that the class would be banned if he continued to say he was teaching yoga.

Another teacher disputed claims that yoga may push her clients to worship of false gods, arguing that the practice is merely exercise, not religion.

"We're not worshipping anything. We're sharing the joy of yoga, breath, gentle movement, rhythm, deep relaxation. It's not like I'm sacrificing virgins in there," the teacher remarked.

Gillian Farrell, a member of a yoga class held at Erskineville for four years, said that she and other people who attended the classes were disappointed by the church's decision.

Her husband, David Farrell, said that the church should be more aware of its responsibilities to the community rather than labeling yoga as a dangerous activity.
home US Atheist group launches pro-blasphemy website characterizing God as 'the most unpleasant character'

An atheist group based in Wisconsin has launched a web page that aims to convince people that God is "the most unpleasant character."

In a news release dated June 9, the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) announced the launch of the new pro-blasphemy website that was inspired by a quote from Richard Dawkins' book, "The God Delusion."

In the second chapter of the book, Dawkins wrote: "The God of the Old Testament is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction; jealous and proud of it; a petty, unjust, unforgiving, control-freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist,infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential,megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic, capriciously malevolent bully."

After receiving criticisms for the remark, Dawkins asked FFRF Co-President and former minister Dan Barker to compile a list of verses to help him back up his claim. The resulting book, "GOD: The Most Unpleasant Character in All Fiction," lists verses for each of the descriptions provided by Dawkins, and eight further descriptions have been contributed by Barker.

"God is every bit as depraved as Dawkins painted him, and more," Barker said. "The new site includes biblical passages revealing that God is also pyromaniacal, angry, merciless, curse-hurling, vaccicidal, aborticidal, cannibalistic and a slavemonger," he added.

The FFRF, which describes itself as a nonprofit organization that promotes the constitutional principle of separation of church and state, frequently files complaints and lawsuits against state and local governments over what it sees as an endorsement of religion. The front page of the new website includes a paragraph that boasts of the FFRF's legal victories and appeals for donations to help the group carry out its objectives.

In its most recent complaint, the FFRF is seeking the removal of welcome signs in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin due to its religious content. The group has sent a letter to the mayor of Oconomowoc, pointing out that the city has two signs on public property that read, "The Churches of Oconomowoc Welcome You."

The FFRF argued that the message of the signs could make unbelievers feel unwelcome and that it violates the constitutional mandate of neutrality by endorsing Christianity over other faiths.

The Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty also wrote a letter to the mayor, refuting the FFRF's assertion that the signs violate the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The legal group pointed out that the signs do not exclude anyone and that they were paid for and maintained by a private party.
home World Canadian Senate approves law that bans the use of wrong gender pronouns

The Canadian Senate has passed a legislation which critics say would make it illegal to use wrong gender pronouns.

Life Site News reported that the Senate approved Bill C-16, which adds "gender expression" and "gender identity" to Canada's Human Rights Code and to the Criminal Code's hate crime section, by a vote of 67a11 on Thursday.

Critics have warned that Canadians who refuse to accept progressive gender theory could be charged with hate crimes, jailed, fined and forced to undergo anti-bias training.

The bill, which was cleared by the Senate with no amendments, requires only royal assent in the House of Commons to be turned into law.

Dr. Jordan Peterson, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto, spoke to the Senate prior to the vote, saying that the bill infringed upon citizens' freedom of speech and codifies what he views as dubious gender ideology into law.

"[Ideologues are] using unsuspecting and sometimes complicit members of the so-called transgender community to push their ideological vanguard forward," Peterson told the Senate in May, according to Daily Caller.

"The very idea that calling someone a term that they didn't choose causes them such irreparable harm that legal remedies should be sought [is] an indication of just how deeply the culture of victimization has sunk into our society," he added.

Lawyer D. Jared Brown warned that those who disavow gender theory can be brought before the Human Rights Commission and could potentially be found guilty of hate crimes.

According to Newsgram, the government will approve certain terms that citizens must use to address "non-binary" people in an effort to prevent discrimination based on gender identity.

Manitoba Senator Don Plett, who voted against the bill, unsuccessfully proposed an amendment to the bill to add: "For greater certainty, nothing in this Act requires the use of a particular word or expression that corresponds to the gender identity or expression of any person."

Plett was reportedly criticized heavily on Twitter immediately after news of the bill's passage broke.

After the vote, Peterson tweeted that Canadians will "seriously regret" the passage of Bill C-16.

"Senate passes Bill C16 without amendment 67 for 11 against. Compelled speech has come to Canada. We will seriously regret this," Peterson wrote.

The psychology professor became a preeminent critic of the bill after he produced three videos opposing the enforcement of gender ideology. In one of the videos, he denounced Bill C-16, saying it "requires compelled speech." He has previously vowed that he will never use "genderless pronouns" for those who identify as gender non-conforming when requested.
home World Chinese court allegedly sabotaged case disputing $1 million fine on house church

Chinese court officials have reportedly broken multiple laws and protocols while hearing a case involving a house church, which recently called for a hearing to dispute a 7 million yuan fine (about $1 million USD).

China Aid reported that Houshi Church, the largest house church in Guiyang in Guizhou province, called for a hearing on June 9 after it was fined approximately 7,054,000 yuan ($1,020,200 USD).

The Nanming District Religious Affairs Bureau levied the fine for the large amount, arguing that the donations to the church between April 2009 and November 2015 were "illegal income."

During the hearing, which was held on June 9 in a small room in the Nanming District Mass Cultural Center, the government officials reportedly broke protocol and did not observe the relevant laws in organizing the proceedings.

Although the hearing was supposed to be open to the public, the police have prevented the church members and other local Christians from entering. The lawyers representing Huoshi Church had requested that the officials from religious affairs bureau responsible from the fine be excluded from the hearing, but the government refused.

"The religious affairs bureau did not strive to protect our legal rights throughout the process," said Su Tianfu, one of the church's pastors. "The hearing process was an avoidance system," he added.

According to China Aid, the officials who oversaw the hearing had been taking part in the attacks against Huoshi Church. The legal team had asked for the removal of the hearing's recorder, as she had been involved in past actions against the Church, but she remained in court during the proceedings.

The lawyers also alleged that the director of the hearing, Qiao Gaohua, had used illegal methods to conduct the hearing, and said that it should have been stopped immediately. The government also allegedly refused to provide the lawyers with copies of documents from the court.

"The government officials broke laws by attending this hearing. The court clerk and Director Qiao were both in charge of this case and should have left the hearing, according to the avoidance system and relevant laws, by which they refused to abide," said one member of the church's legal team, Xiao Yunyang.

"In addition, we demanded to make photocopies of the case files and evidence, so we would have enough time to prepare, but were turned down by the government. The day before the hearing, we then asked the government officials to make copies for us, but they said no," Xiao added.

Huoshi Church, which was founded in 2009, had approximately 500 members before it was raided in December 2015. One of its pastors, Yang Hua, was convicted of "divulging state secrets" and sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison in January.
home World Eritrea arrests nearly two dozen Christians in crackdown on unregistered denominations

Nearly two dozen Christians were reportedly arrested in Eritrea as part of a nationwide crackdown on denominations that are not officially recognized by the government.

According to World Watch Monitor, over 90 people have been arrested in late May and a further 22 arrests have been confirmed at the end of that month and the beginning of June. Seventeen of those were arrested in the Godaif neighbourhood of the capital, Asmara, on May 28, while the remaining five were taken from their homes in Dongolo on June 6.

The advocacy group Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is now calling on the Human Rights Council (HRC) for support, as the number or Eritrean Christians arrested since May has now risen to 122.

In 2002, the Eritrean government passed a law banning religious practice outside of the Catholic, Evangelical Lutheran and Orthodox Christian denominations or Sunni Islam. However, officially recognized churches have also reported persecution from the government.

"These arrests signify a renewed intensity in the crackdown that has been ongoing since 2002, and are a clear indication that the severe repression of freedom of religion or belief continues unabated in Eritrea," said CSW's Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas.

Sheila B. Keetharuth, the United Nations (UN) Special Rapporteur on Eritrea, has spoken to the HRC about the arrests in Ghindae, where 15 Christians were reportedly detained, and in Adi Quala, where 54 Christians were taken from their homes. She also spoke about the ongoing detention of Patriarch Antonios of the Eritrean Orthodox Church.

Keetharuth has produced a new report calling for the immediate and unconditional release of "all those unlawfully and arbitrarily detained," including journalists and members of religious groups.

CSW has reported that at least 28 Christians have died during their incarceration or shortly after their release because of the harsh treatment they faced while they were imprisoned. Some Christians were reportedly held in metal shipping containers, where they faced extreme heat during the day, freezing temperatures at night, and a lack of oxygen, hygiene and privacy.

"In view of the continuing violations and lack of cooperation, we call on the HRC to support the renewal of the Special Rapporteur's mandate, and also to urge the international community to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against humanity are held accountable, including through universal jurisdiction, whenever this is appropriate," Thomas stated.

Eritrea has been ranked in the 2017 Open Doors World Watch List as the tenth most difficult country to profess and practice the Christian faith.
home World Famed atheist Richard Dawkins calls Islam the 'most evil religion in the world'

Atheist author Richard Dawkins has condemned Islam as the "most evil religion in the world" while speaking at the Cheltenham Science Festival on Sunday.

"It's tempting to say all religions are bad, and I do say all religions are bad, but it's a worse temptation to say all religions are equally bad because they're not," Dawkins said at the festival, according to The Telegraph.

"If you look at the actual impact that different religions have on the world it's quite apparent that at present the most evil religion in the world has to be Islam," he added.

The author explained that it does not mean that "all Muslims are evil," as some of them "suffer more from Islam than anyone else" because of the "homophobia, the misogyny, the joylessness" preached by extremists.

Dawkins noted that Islam has to be resisted, but he said that Muslims should not be barred from entering the U.K.

"That's draconian, that's illiberal, inhumane and wicked. I am against Islam not least because of the unpleasant effects it has on the lives of Muslims," the author said.

Dawkins, who is promoting his new book titled "Science in the Soul," also advised against banning religious studies in schools. He said that it is important to learn about the Bible because so much of English literature refers to it.

The author argued that history cannot be fully understood without the knowledge of the Christian religion and the Crusades. He suggested that religious education should be replaced with comparative religion, Biblical history and religious history. He stated that comparative religion is valuable for children because they learn about other religions, not just the one that they were raised with.

The famed atheist, however, insisted that using "hell fire" to scare children is "deeply wicked" and "evil," echoing statements he has made in the past.

In his 2006 bestseller, "The God Delusion," Dawkins stated that teaching children that they could end up in hell is greatly damaging to a child's mental well-being. The book, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary last year, has been praised by atheist leaders and other authors for its far-ranging impact.

Hemant Mehta of The Friendly Atheist blog contended that the book has created more atheists than any other book in history, noting that it has sold more than three million copies.

Dawkins stated in a BBC interview in May 2016 that he is proud of the book, but he does not anticipate writing another book with the same subject.
home US Immigration officials detain dozens of Iraqi Christians in Detroit

U.S. Immigration officials have arrested dozens of Iraqi Christians in Detroit, Michigan on Sunday, prompting protests from family members and advocates who fear that the detainees would be killed if they are deported to Iraq.

Russia Today reported Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have arrested as many as 80 Chaldean Christian Iraqis for mass deportation in Sterling Heights, West Bloomfield and Dearborn.

ICE's Detroit field office has stated that all of the detainees had criminal convictions such as "homicide, rape, aggravated assault" and others. But there have been reports that ICE has arrested people without criminal records, or those whose crimes primarily involve immigration violations.

Advocates have contended that many of the Chaldeans detained by ICE have already served their sentences for minor crimes years ago and that they could be persecuted if they are deported back to Iraq.

Martin Manna, president of the Chaldean Community Foundation, asserted that deporting the Chaldeans back to Iraq "is equivalent to a death sentence," noting that Chaldean churches in the region have been bombed.

He further noted that many of the detainees would not be able to speak the native language when they arrive in Iraq.

"Most of those being picked up or at risk of deportation have only really known America," Manna told Think Progress. "They came here as children. They're culturally illiterate [in Iraq]...There's really no homeland for the Chaldean people," he added.

Manna said that Detroit is home to about 150,000 Chaldeans, some of whom supported Donald Trump during the election.

Family members and protesters have gathered outside the building of the field office, and some have attempted to block the buses of Iraqis from entering and leaving the ICE compound.

The arrests came after the U.S. government removed Iraq from a list of countries that are included in Trump's travel ban issued in March.

The executive order stated that Iraq was removed from the list because the Iraqi government made efforts to "to enhance travel documentation, information sharing, and the return of Iraqi nationals subject to final orders of removal."

"As a result of recent negotiations between the U.S. and Iraq, Iraq has recently agreed to accept a number of Iraqi nationals subject to orders of removal," said ICE spokeswoman Gillian Christensen, as reported by Reuters.

U.S. officials noted that there are about 1,400 Iraqi nationals with final orders of removal currently living in America.
home World Indian villagers allegedly forced Christian families to participate in Hindu ritual

Christian families in Uttar Pradesh state, India, have been reportedly beaten and pressured by villagers to participate in Hindu rituals.

Morning Star News reported that Hindu villagers in Jalalabad village, Ghazipur District attacked four Christian couples, along with several other Christians, on April 25 and accused them of forcibly converting Hindus to Christianity.

"The mob supported by the village president forced us to drink gangajal [water from the Ganges River, considered holy), eat tulsi [basil considered holy] leaves and declare that we deny Christ," Pushpa Kumari, one of the Christians who were attacked, told Morning Star News. "When we resisted, the men and women of the village beat us even more severely," she added.

The four couples, along with four other Christians, refused to participate in the Hindu ritual, but they said 13 other younger Christians felt compelled to take part in the ritual and deny Christ.

Sasikala Kumari, who was also beaten by the villagers, said that the attackers also cut off their water supply with the permission of the village head and the police. "They have all joined together and are conspiring against us," she said.

Village President Santosh Kumar Gupta denied that the Christians were pressured to deny Christ and take part in the Hindu ritual. When the Christians filed a complaint against the assailants at the Dullapur police station, Gupta accused them of engaging in forced conversions of Hindus to Christianity.

Manoj Kumar, who leads prayers in his house every Sunday, said that the police listened to both sides and have asked the villagers to "let anyone follow their own Dharma [religious teaching] peacefully, and that nobody shall disturb the prayer services in the village's house church."

The Hindu villagers reportedly agreed to abide by the police request, but they still refused to sell water to the Christians.

Gupta said that he cannot prevent the Hindu villagers from cutting off the water supply to the Christians. "If nobody in the village wants to sell them water from the bore wells, it's their personal choice," he said.

Gupta claimed that none of the families have complained to him about the lack of water service, but Pushpa said that the Christians have approached him twice already.

When the Christians came to Gupta for the third time on June 14, they said that the village head told them that they must stop the worship services in the village and stop following Christ before water can be supplied to them.

Christians in India have been facing attacks from Hindu extremists since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took power in May 2014. Religious rights advocates have claimed that Modi's National Democratic Alliance government, led by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has emboldened Hindus in several parts of the country to carry out attacks against Christians.

India has been ranked in the 2017 Open Doors World Watch List as the 15th country where Christians face the most persecution.
home World ISIS claims responsibility for killing two Chinese nationals believed to be preaching in Pakistan

The Islamic State has taken credit for the abduction and murder of two Chinese nationals who were said to be preaching the Gospel in Pakistan.

According to Dawn, armed men dressed as policemen kidnapped a Chinese man and woman in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province on May 24.

On June 8, ISIS claimed responsibility for the kidnapping and released a video showing the murder of the two Chinese nationals, who were later identified as 24-year-old Lee Zing Yang and 26-year-old Meng Li Si.

Reports have indicated that the two Chinese nationals were Christian missionaries who had obtained business visas from the Pakistani embassy in Beijing. The Chinese pair went to Quetta on the pretext of learning Urdu, but they were said to be preaching Christianity instead of studying the language.

Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan has instructed Interior Secretary Tariq Mehmood to investigate the matter and ensure that misuse of business visas do not occur in the future.

The news of the killings came as China is building a new port and funding roads in Balochistan to link its western regions with the Arabian Sea.

In 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping signed off on the ChinaaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), pledging to invest $57 billion in Pakistani road, rail and power infrastructure, prompting large numbers of Pakistanis to study Mandarin.

Meanwhile, Chinese media has accused South Korean Christian groups of converting Chinese nationals and sending them to preach Christianity in Muslim countries.

The state-run Global Times cited Chinese analysts who have warned of "another dangerous trend that might see China become entangled in constant trouble with overseas terrorism as South Korean missionaries are allegedly recruiting Chinese people to preach in Muslim countries."

"South Korean missionaries have been conducting underground missionary activities in China since at least a decade ago. Many missionary organisations are even sponsored by the (South Korean) intelligence agency, the National Intelligence Service," said Chu Yin, an associate professor at the University of International Relations.

A university student who has participated in several missionary events has claimed that South Korean missionaries have been sending teenagers to conduct risky missionary activities in Muslim countries. He noted that some South Korean missionaries offer free airfare tickets, accommodation and meals to Chinese teenagers to go to South Korea before sending them elsewhere.

"Some Chinese voluntarily join in the dangerous missionary activities in countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iraq after being converted by South Koreans," he said.

A Global Times editorial asserted that it was doubtful that ISIS targeted CPEC because the two victims were not staff members related to the project.

"This tragedy was more likely caused by the conflict between South Korean missionary agencies and local terrorists," the editorial stated, as reported by The Hindu.
home World ISIS used historic church in Mosul to abuse Yazidi girls, Iraqi army officer reveals

A historic church in eastern Mosul, Iraq has been used by the Islamic State to imprison and abuse Yazidi women and girls, according to an Iraqi army officer.

Iraqi officials have revealed that the historic Syrian Orthodox Church of St. Ephraim, one of the region's largest Christian sites, has been used by ISIS to imprison at least 200 Yazidi girls and women.

Tiny pieces of pink and yellow underwear and flower headbands belonging to the very young Yazidi sex slaves have been found on the floor of the iconic church, Fox News reported.

"We found documents where they questioned them about their age, whether married or single, virgin or not, period or not," said Iraqi Forces 1st Lt. Waseem Nenwaya, adding that ISIS also stored other documents from their various departments at the church.

In June 2015, the terror group announced that it is converting the church to a "mosque of the mujahideen" and took down the cross from its dome. The militants also took away all of the furniture from the building and removed all the Christian symbols. The church was then cloaked with the black-and-white ISIS flag that declares in Arabic, "There is no God but Allah"

Efforts to restore the church are now underway, and the country's Christian Affairs Department has partnered with several humanitarian-focused nongovernmental organizations from France and Italy to help assist with the repairs.

More than 6,500 Yazidis were kidnapped when ISIS stormed their ancestral home of Sinjar in early August 2014. Some have been forced to train to become jihadists while others were turned into sex slaves.

Thousands have managed to escape over the course of the terror group's reign, but some have been murdered and about 2,000 remain unaccounted for.

"Some locals have come forward and delivered girls, whom they were protecting, to the troops. But there are not many left," Nenwaya said.

Yazidi leaders have previously shown photographs of jihadists burning babies on a slab of sheet metal.

Last week, local activists have reported that ISIS publicly caged and burned 19 Yazidi girls alive for refusing to have sex with militants.

Iraqi government forces liberated eastern Mosul in January and began the offensive to retake the western side about a month later. After taking control of a neighboring district on Thursday, the military announced that they were about to complete the encirclement of ISIS' stronghold in the Old City of Mosul.

It is believed that some surviving Yazidi slaves have been transferred to the terrorist group's stronghold in Raqqa, Syria. The Syrian city is also being pummeled by coalition forces with the help of Kurdish ground troops, and it is getting closer to falling out of ISIS control each day.
home US Kentucky pastor says he will not comply with law banning pro-life protests outside abortion clinics

A pastor in Louisville, Kentucky has expressed his opposition to a proposed regulation that would prohibit protesters from gathering outside abortion clinics.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky has recently advised the Metro Council to create an eight-foot-wide buffer zone outside the entrance of EMW Women's Clinic in Louisville to ensure that women have "unimpeded access" to the last open abortion facility in the state.

On Wednesday, the council held a meeting to hear the concerns of abortion activists and pro-life advocates regarding the proposed buffer zone.

At the meeting, local pastor Joseph Spurgeon insisted that he will not comply with the buffer zone, if enacted.

"Respect the unborn children. Respect our free speech. We will not obey buffer zone laws!" the pastor shouted.

WDRB reported that Spurgeon blamed violence in the west end on legal abortion. He was then escorted out by the police after council members repeatedly called for order as the pastor continued to shout.

Abortion advocate Kate Cunningham called on the council members to enact a 20-foot "safety zone" at the entrance of the clinic, saying it will not obstruct free speech but will protect the clinic's patients from "hostile protesters."

"Protesters may gather 20 feet from the entrance and continue to yell loudly, harass women and hold up 2x4-foot signs depicting bloody fetuses," she said.

LMPD Maj. Eric Johnson, who currently assigns police officers to the clinic each Saturday, claimed that the protests were becoming more "aggressive."

Last month, the police arrested about a dozen protesters, who were locked arm-in-arm to block the entrance to the clinic. The protests were organized by the group Operation Save America in an effort to block the clinic entrance and risk arrest to "rescue their preborn neighbor."

Lousiville police said that the protesters were arrested and charged with criminal trespassing after they refused to leave the premises.

Life News noted that Blocking abortion clinics has been considered as a controversial tactic among pro-life groups because it is illegal.

Buffer zones have also been seen as a controversial measure, and several proposals have been struck down in courts in the U.S. In 2014, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled against a buffer zone law in Massachusetts, saying it restricted the freedom of speech of pro-life advocates. In May, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of pro-life activists, who argued that the buffer zone ordinance in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania violated their right to free speech.
home US Missouri Senate passes bill that would require abortion clinics to undergo annual inspections

The Missouri Senate has approved a legislation that would require abortion clinics to have annual inspections after Gov. Eric Greitens called a special session for the purpose of passing pro-life measures.

Senate Bill 5, sponsored by Sen. Andrew Koenig, was passed on Thursday morning by a vote of 20a8, and it is now headed to the state House for consideration.

The Associated Press reported that the bill included a provision that would repeal a St. Louis ordinance that bans discrimination based on abortion or pregnancies.

The area Catholic diocese filed a lawsuit against the ordinance in May, saying it violates their constitutional freedoms.

Last week, Greitens called for a special legislative session to stop the St. Louis ordinance and to pass new regulations for abortion facilities. On Wednesday, the governor held a rally in the state Capitol in support of special session and the legislation.

"Today, hundreds of pro-life Missourians came together to celebrate the work that our pregnancy care centers do for women and children. These are pro-life organizations that offer medical care, housing, food, and support throughout pregnancy and for years after a baby is born," Greitens wrote on Facebook.

The measure approved by the Senate would also enable the attorney general to prosecute violations of abortion laws, but only if local prosecutors do not act first. However, the lawmakers threw out a proposal that would have prohibited abortion clinic staff from asking ambulances to drive without lights or sirens.

Additionally, the legislation would require abortion facilities to submit fetal tissue samples for examination within five days of the procedure. The state health department would be tasked with reviewing the samples regularly to ensure that abortion clinics are complying with state laws.

Some Republican lawmakers have been trying to pass laws dealing with fetal tissue since 2015, when pro-life activists released undercover videos that allegedly showed Planned Parenthood officials discussing the sale of tissue.

Meanwhile, Greitens has expressed plans to appeal a court decision that blocked a state abortion clinic regulations that would have required abortionists to have hospital admitting privileges for patient emergency situations. The regulation also would have required abortion clinics to meet standards similar to other ambulatory surgical facilities.

Life News noted that many abortion facilities have closed since the state regulations were passed in 2005. The number of abortion clinics in the state dropped from seven in 2005 to two in 2014, because the facilities would not or could not comply with the regulations.
home World Most of harassment against Christians in 2015 occurred in Christian-majority countries, says Pew report

A study conducted by Pew Research Center has indicated that while Christians are facing persecution in the Middle East, most of the harassment against them in 2015 actually occurred in Christian-majority countries.

A recent report published by Pew has revealed that Christians have faced harassment in more countries than any other religious group due in part to their huge size and broad geographic dispersion around the world.

Although Christians experience persecution in many of the heavily Muslim countries in the Middle East and North Africa, they are mostly harassed in Christian-majority countries, according to Pew.

The study noted that in some countries, the Christian majority itself faced harassment, often carried out by the government.

In Nicaragua, where about 59 percent of the population is Catholic, the Catholic Church has reported that the government has monitored its emails and telephone conversations.

The government has reportedly granted financial support for churches based on the clergy's political affiliation. The Catholic Church claimed that the government has undermined the church's religious authority by using Catholic traditions and symbols to promote political agendas.

In other Christian-majority countries, those who belong to minority denominations have been targeted for harassment.

In Eritrea, where Eritrean Orthodox Christianity is the dominant faith, Jehovah's Witnesses have been prohibited from obtaining official identification documents.

According to Pew, the majority of the prisoners in Eritrea in 2015 belong to Protestant denominations such as Pentecostals and evangelical Christians.

Pew's annual study on global restrictions on religion has indicated that government restrictions and social hostilities related to religion increased in 2015 for the first time in three years.

As many as 40 percent of 198 surveyed countries registered "high" or "very high" levels of overall restrictions, which was up from 34 percent in 2014.

Twenty-five percent reported "high" or "very high" levels of government restrictions in 2015, which was up from 24 percent in 2014. A total of 27 percent had "high" or "very high" numbers of acts of religious hostility by individuals, organizations or groups, which is a significant increase from 23 percent in 2014.

The report indicated that Egypt had the highest levels of government restrictions on religion, while Nigeria had the most social hostilities toward it.

Katayoun Kishi, the primary researcher on the study, said that it is too soon to tell whether the increase is a blip or a trend.

"I think we'd have to wait and see till next year whether or not this trend continues or if this is sort of a one-off just because it is such a modest increase," she said.
home US North Korea releases jailed American student in a comatose state

A 22-year-old American student who was serving a 15-year-prison sentence for stealing a propaganda banner in North Korea has been released after being in a coma for over a year.

Otto Warmbier, who had served 18 months of his 15-year sentence, arrived in his hometown of Ohio on Wednesday and was immediately taken to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

The 22-year-old student was arrested in 2016 after he removed a banner of the nation's late dictator Kim Jong Il from a North Korean hotel while he was in the country with a tour group.

During a press conference prior to his trial, Warmbier pleaded to be released, saying he made "the worst mistake of my life."

On Tuesday, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson announced that his agency had "secured" the student's release during discussions with North Korea.

"Mr. Warmbier is en route to the United States, where he will be reunited with his family. The Department of State continues to have discussions with the DPRK regarding three other U.S. citizens reported detained," Tillerson said at the time.

According to The Telegraph, Warmbier's parents were told that he fell into a coma after he was given a sleeping pill following his trial in March last year.

"Sadly, he is in a coma and we have been told he has been in that condition since March of 2016. We learned of this only one week ago," the parents said.

"We want the world to know how we and our son have been brutalised and terrorised by the pariah regime in North Korea. We are so grateful that he will finally be with people who love him," they added.

Tillerson did not offer any comment on Warmbier's health condition, but the family said that the student was medically evacuated from North Korea because he was in a coma that is believed to be associated with botulism.

The U.S. has criticized North Korea for Warmbier's harsh sentence and has accused the Communist regime of using the student as a political pawn.

North Korea has been known for occasionally jailing U.S. citizens and releasing them only after visits by high-profile political figures such as former President Bill Clinton. Three other American citizens are still believed to be detained in North Korea.

Kim Hak Song and Tony Kim, who both worked at Pyongyang University of Science and Technology, were detained in early May for unspecified hostile acts. In April 2016, South Korean-born U.S. citizen Kim Dong Chul was convicted of espionage and sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labor.
home World Pakistani man gets death penalty for 'blasphemous' Facebook post

A Pakistani man has been sentenced to death on Saturday after an antiterrorism court found him guilty of posting 'blasphemous' messages on social media.

Taimoor Raza, 30, a member of Pakistan's Shia minority, received the death penalty for making derogatory remarks about the Islamic Prophet Muhammad on Facebook and WhatsApp.

New York Times reported that Raza was arrested by counterterrorism officials at a bus station in Bahawalpur in April 2016. According to officials, he was showing blasphemous content on his mobile phone to people at the bus station when he was apprehended.

Muhammad Shafique Qureshi, the prosecutor in the case, said that the forensic report on Raza's mobile phone showed that he had committed blasphemy in at least 3,000 posts.

The prosecutor noted that Raza also confessed to a being a member of a banned Shiite group, Sipah-e-Muhammad, which has been known to engage in retaliatory campaign of violence against radical Sunni groups before it was outlawed in 2001.

Raza was initially charged under a section of a penal code that carries the punishment of up to two years for derogatory remarks about other religious personalities. However, he was later charged under a law that specifically deals with derogatory comments against Muhammad, which carries the death penalty.

"An anti terrorism court of Bahawalpur has awarded him the death sentence," Qureshi said, according to the Daily Mail. "It is the first ever death sentence in a case that involves social media," he added.

Raza's death sentence came after the Pakistani government launched a high-profile crackdown against blasphemous content on social media, especially Facebook and Twitter. Pakistan's interior minister has recently requested Facebook to identify people suspected of committing blasphemy so that they could be prosecuted.

Critics have contended that Pakistan's blasphemy laws are largely misused, with hundreds of people being jailed under false charges.

The independent rights group Human Rights Commission of Pakistan reported that 15 people a 10 Muslims and five non-Muslims a have been arrested on blasphemy charges last year.

While the country has never executed anyone convicted of blasphemy, mere accusations have sometimes led to mob violence or lynching.

In April, a university student in northern Pakistan named Mashal Khan was tortured and shot to death by other students after he was accused of blasphemy. Over 20 students and some faculty members are currently under investigation in connection with the killing. The attack on the student has prompted nationwide outrage and criticisms about Pakistan's blasphemy law.
home US Pastor accused of selling Connecticut church to himself for a dollar

A pastor has been accused of forging deed documents of a church in Bridgeport, Connecticut and selling it to himself for $1.

Bishop Franklin L. Fountain, the pastor of Fountain of Youth Cathedral on Madison Avenue in Bridgeport, has been charged with charged with first-degree larceny and second-degree forgery after he allegedly forged deed documents of the church founded by his father in 1960.

The pastor was accused of selling the Madison Avenue church, valued at $1.5 million, to himself for $1.

"Isn't this all ridiculous," the 55-year-old pastor said on Wednesday, according to CT post. "I am the pastor and I deserve respect and I expect that this will all be worked out," he added.

Police Detective Francis Podpolucha said that the complaint against Fountain was filed by the church's Board of Directors, namely Fountain's younger brother James Fountain and his uncle Donald Fountain.

The complaint alleged that the pastor altered the deed documents of the church at 324 Madison Ave. without authorization and sold the property to himself.

Fountain, who was released on a promise to appear in court, is facing more than 20 years if he is convicted of the charges.

According to the church's website, Fountain has been in the ministry since he was 16 and served many years under his father's leadership.

Between 2011 and 2016, Fountain had served as the District Bishop and a member of the General Board of Bishops at the Florida State Diocese of the International Bible Way Church of Jesus Christ.

He was expected to be affirmed to the sacred ascension of Apostle in the Lord's church, in the 8th Holy Convocation of Resurrection Ministries International, Inc., on July 15, according to the church. It is unclear how the current allegations against the pastor will affect that honor.

"Bishop Franklin L. Fountain has achieved many academic scholastic honors, but the greatest of them all was when he received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Bishop has also served our country in the United States Air Force. He has Pastored many and established churches and missions within the United States as well as overseeing foreign ministries, bible schools and conducted revival crusades," the church said about the accused pastor.

The website indicated that his father, Bishop Franklin D. Fountain, handed over the leadership of the church to his other son, Elder Christopher D. Fountain, on November 13, 2004, due to terminal illness. The accused pastor took over the ministry some nine years later, after Christopher passed the baton of leadership to him in November 2013.
home World Pope Francis appoints pro-abortion philosopher to pro-life academy

A philosopher who has previously expressed support for abortion has been appointed by Pope Francis to the Vatican's pro-life academy.

Church Militant reported that Nigel Biggar was one of the 45 new members who were chosen to serve a five-year term on the Pontifical Academy for Life.

Biggar, regius professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology and director of the McDonald Center for Theology, Ethics, and Public Life at the University of Oxford, has previously stated that he believes abortions should be legal up to 18 weeks after conception.

"I would be inclined to draw the line for abortion at 18 weeks after conception, which is roughly about the earliest time when there is some evidence of brain activity, and therefore of consciousness," he stated in 2011, according to Life News.

"It's not clear that a human foetus is the same kind of thing as an adult or a mature human being, and therefore deserves quite the same treatment. It then becomes a question of where we draw the line, and there is no absolutely cogent reason for drawing it in one place over another," he added.

Christine Vollmer, a founding member of the pontifical academy and president of the Latin American Alliance for the Family, described the pope's appointment of Biggar as "scandalous."

The appointment has been seen as a contradiction of the recent assurance given by academy President Abp. Vincenzo Paglia that all of its members would be completely pro-life.

On June 6, Paglia said he is hoping that "membership will be seen as not only talented and accomplished, but also as truly representative of all who value life at all its stages."

When Biggar was asked by Life Site News whether his appointment indicates that the Catholic Church is changing its stance on abortion, he said that he could not comment on the Church's position as he was not a Roman Catholic.

He stated that his recent appointment may be due to his sustained work on the issues of voluntary euthanasia and assisted suicide, noting that his views on those issues were consistent with the Church's.

Shortly after Pope Francis was elected, many mainstream media have speculated that the Church might soften its stance on abortion. However, the pope has consistently expressed his opposition to abortion and urged society to protect human lives, including the unborn.

A few weeks after his election, he made a personal call to a woman who got pregnant out of wedlock, urging her to keep her baby and see the child as a "gift from God."
home World Record number of British women in multiple pregnancies are opting to abort one of their babies

A new report published by the British Department of Health has indicated that a record number of women in England and Wales are opting to abort one of their babies when they discover that they are pregnant with twins or triplets.

The statistics released on Tuesday revealed that 141 women have made the decision to undergo "selective reduction" abortions in 2016, a near-100 percent increase in just five years.

The Catholic Herald reported that 92 of the 141 cases involved aborting one twin. Thirty-three involved abortion one triplet and 11 involved abortion two triplets. Additionally, there had been five cases of quadruplets where at least one of the babies was aborted.

The report noted that the women who underwent "selective reduction" abortions are likely married, over 30, and less likely to have had a previous termination.

The figures suggested that many of these abortions may be due to IVF treatment that results in "more than one embryo being implanted in the womb."

"In such cases, the outcome of the pregnancy may be more successful if the number of fetuses is reduced. This reduction usually occurs at about 12 weeks' gestation," the report stated.

The report also indicated that the total number of abortions in England and Wales was slightly reduced from 185,824 in 2015 to 185,596 in 2016.

There was also a reduction in abortion rate among teenagers, falling from 2.0 to 1.7 per 1,000 women for those under 16 and a drop from 9.9 to 8.9 per 1,000 for women under 18.

The number of abortions performed on non-residents in England and Wales also dropped to 4,810, its lowest number since 1969.

The figures also showed that the number of women who traveled from Ireland to obtain abortions in England has fallen from 3,451 in 2015 to 3,265 in 2016. The numbers represented a continual decline since 2001 when there were 6,673 Irish abortions.

However, the abortions of unborn babies with disabilities have increased in 2016. As many as 706 babies with Down's syndrome were aborted that year, and nine were aborted because of cleft lip or palate.

"The abortion rate in this country is a national tragedy. While this may be profitable for the abortion industry, each one of those abortions represents a personal crisis for a woman and the loss of her child," said Anne Scanlan, director of education at the charity Life.

She noted that a May 2017 ComRes poll has shown that women in the UK want greater restrictions on abortion.

"The results found that 70 per cent of women want the current time limit on abortion to be lowered and 91 per cent of women want a ban on sex-selective abortion," she said.
home US SBC President Steve Gaines calls for creation of task force to study decline in membership

Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) President Steve Gaines has revealed plans for the creation of a task force that would study the decline in membership and baptisms during the denomination's yearly meeting in Phoenix, Arizona on Tuesday.

Gaines, senior pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church of Memphis, Tennessee, stated at the meeting that he is planning to create "a soul-winning task force that will look into ways that as Southern Baptists we can be more effective in personal evangelism and soul-winning and also in evangelistic preaching."

The Memphis pastor, who easily won re-election on Tuesday, said that he will put an emphasis on spreading the Gospel in his second one-year term, according to Religion News Service.

The SBC, which is currently the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S. with 15.2 million members, has seen its membership decline for the 10th straight year.

The statistics released in advance of the 2017 SBC annual meeting has indicated that there are one million fewer Southern Baptists than a decade ago.

Gaines said that there were "many wonderful things" happening within the denomination, including the planting of about 100 new churches every month.

"I'm grateful to God that now we are starting to send more and more missionaries back on the field, not pulling them off the field, but our [International Mission Board] is putting more and more missionaries back on the field," Gaines said, as reported by The Christian Post.

"God has given us wonderful state conventions. I've gone to most all of our seminaries, I've been able to preach there. God is raising up many godly people to preach and to share the Gospel of Jesus," he continued.

Gaines contended that every Christian is a "minister," and he called on those attending the event to be a "soul-winner" to help reverse the trend of decline.

SBC's Annual Church Profile showed that the number of baptisms, which has long been considered as a benchmark for denominational health, has dropped to its lowest level in 70 years. It fell for the fifth straight year to 280,773, the fewest since 1946 when there was a total of 253,361 baptisms.

Southern Baptist baptisms increased beyond 300,000 in 1948 and stayed above that level each year until 2015. The denomination saw its high water mark in 1972 with 445,725 baptisms.

The number of baptisms dropped by more than a third since 1980, when the denomination fell into a 10-year controversy over biblical inerrancy, which led into believers splintering into new groups like the Alliance of Baptists and Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.
home US Southern Baptists adopt resolution denouncing 'alt-right white supremacy'

The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has adopted a resolution denouncing "alt-right white supremacy" at its annual meeting in Phoenix, Arizona on Wednesday.

The resolution condemning the "alt-right," a movement generally associated with white nationalism, was introduced by William Dwight McKissic, an African-American pastor from Texas.

The SBC drew criticism on social media on Tuesday after it failed to vote on the measure as the Resolutions Committee and messengers failed to bring the proposal to the floor.

Resolutions Committee chairman Barrett Duke stated that the original resolution was "too open-ended" and could be misinterpreted.

The committee later asked for an opportunity to bring such a resolution to the convention on Wednesday, and the request was approved by the Committee on Order of Business and messengers.

McKissic, who was the author of a resolution about the Confederate flag that was rewritten and passed at last year's convention, expressed his gratitude after the final version of the resolution was approved in a near unanimous vote on Wednesday.

"(W)e denounce and repudiate white supremacy and every form of racial and ethnic hatred as a scheme of the devil," said the one-page statement that was disseminated before the last session of the two-day meeting, according to Religion News Service.

Duke, who serves as the executive director of the Montana Southern Baptist Convention, apologized for the "pain and the confusion" that resulted from the failure to report on the proposal to condemn the "alt-right." He told messengers, or delegates that he shares their abhorrence of "particularly vicious form of racism that has manifested itself in the 'alt-right' movement."

He said that the new version speaks with "conviction but also with compassion" and repudiates racism "in a tone that honors all people, even those with whom we disagree."

McKissic reportedly struggled to convince many black pastors not to leave after the failure to vote on the measure on Tuesday. He said that there is still much work to be done within the SBC, but he acknowledged that Southern Baptists "want to get it right."

Southern Baptist ethics leader Russell Moore, who had spoken in favor of the resolution from the floor, commended the passage of the measure.

"Southern Baptists were right to speak clearly and definitely that 'alt-right' white nationalism is not just a sociological movement but a work of the devil," said Moore, who serves as the president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission.

"Racism and white supremacy are not merely social issues. Racism and white supremacy attack the Gospel itself and the person of our Lord Jesus Christ," he added.
home US Southern Baptists approve resolution calling for investigation of Planned Parenthood over sales of baby parts

The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has approved a resolution calling for an investigation on abortion chain Planned Parenthood over its alleged participation in the sales of aborted baby parts.

The resolution, approved by the Baptists on Tuesday at the convention's annual meeting in Phoenix, denounced the Planned Parenthood as "immoral" and called on Congress to "immediately and completely" defund the abortion organization.

"We denounce the immoral agenda and practices of Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its affiliates, especially their role in the unjust killing each year of more than 300,000 precious unborn babies, its use of particularly gruesome illegal abortion methods, and its profiteering from harvesting unborn babies' tissues and organs," the SBC stated in the resolution titled "On Defunding And Investigating Planned Parenthood."

According to Life Site News, the SBC also called on the U.S. Department of Justice to "pursue criminal charges against Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its affiliates for their use of illegal abortion methods, trafficking in and profiting from the harvesting of unborn babies' tissues and organs, and any other actions that may be in violation of federal law."

The resolution cited the undercover videos released by Center for Medical Progress (CMP) in 2015 showing Planned Parenthood executives allegedly negotiating the sales of aborted baby parts.

The SBC also pointed out that Planned Parenthood's own annual report reveals that its facilities perform more abortions than cancer screenings, demonstrating that abortion plays a central role in the organization.

On Wednesday, Russell Moore, the president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), released his annual report explaining that the protection of human life has been the top priority of his organization in the past year.

Moore noted that the ERLC, which is the public policy arm of the SBC, has focused on supporting efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. He revealed that the ERLC has collected thousands of signatures from people, calling on federal lawmakers to strip the abortion organization of its taxpayer funding.

The report further noted that the ERLC is educating legislators and the public about the abortion industry through campaigns, such as the Evangelicals for Life conference in January, and other means.

Earlier this year, lawmakers involved in the Congressional investigation on the issue of baby parts trafficking recommended that Congress defund Planned Parenthood. The abortion organization has also allegedly engaged in Medicaid fraud and has failed to report suspected sex trafficking and sexual abuse of minors, according to Life News.
home World UK Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron resigns over Christian faith

Tim Farron has stepped down from his position as the party leader of UK's Liberal Democrats on Wednesday, saying he felt it "impossible" to lead the party as a committed Christian.

"The consequences of the focus on my faith is that I have found myself torn between living as a faithful Christian and serving as a political leader," Farron stated in a speech to staff at the party's London headquarters, as reported by Sky News.

"A better, wiser person than me may have been able to deal with this more successfully, to have remained faithful to Christ while leading a political party in the current environment," he continued.

"To be a political leader - especially of a progressive, liberal party in 2017 - and to live as a committed Christian, to hold faithfully to the Bible's teaching, has felt impossible for me," Farron went on to say.

Earlier on Wednesday, Lord Paddick, who was formerly the most senior openly gay police officer, resigned from his post as the party's home affair's spokesman, citing Farron's views on gay marriage. He stated that he felt unable to continue in his role because of Farron's stance on "various issues."

The Westmorland and Lonsdale MP has faced repeated questions over his attitude to gay sex during the election campaign.

Farron, an evangelical Christian who has served as the head of the Liberal Democrats since 2015, had previously clarified that he supported gay marriage and LGBT rights, but he declined to say whether or not he believed it was a sin. Following a wave of criticism, he explained that he did not believe that homosexuality is a sin.

The Telegraph reported that some sources within the party saw Paddick's resignation as a beginning of a coup against Farron, who has been seen as ineffective during the campaign despite increasing the number of his MPs.

A spokesman for Farron denied earlier that there is a coup against the party leader and claimed that he would stay in his role "for as long as he wants to do so." Farron said he would continue to play the role only until the summer recess when a party leadership election will be held.

Jo Swinson, who regained her East Dunbartonshire seat in last week's General Election, has been tipped to become a possible replacement for Farron. She was seen as a possible deputy leader of the party after Farron launched a search for the role on Tuesday.
home World UK Supreme Court rejects appeal to allow Irish women to get free abortions in England

The U.K. Supreme Court has ruled that the National Health Service (NHS) in England must not be compelled to pay for the abortions of women from Northern Ireland, where the procedure is currently banned.

According to The Guardian, a panel of Supreme Court judges narrowly voted to uphold a previous ruling, which stated that women who travel to England from Northern Ireland are not entitled to free abortions on the NHS.

NHS is not allowed to pay for abortions for women from the region because of its policy of not funding medical services in England that would be illegal if received in Northern Ireland.

The legal challenge to the policy was brought by a Northern Ireland woman who took her daughter to England for an abortion in 2012. The daughter, who was 15-years-old, at the time, got an abortion from a private clinic at the cost of 900 (US$ 1,148) including travel. The family was only able to pay for the amount with some financial help from the charity Abortion Support Network.

The woman claimed that the policy was discriminatory and violated her daughter's human rights because the Abortion Act does not apply to Northern Ireland.

The judges, however, voted 3a2 to dismiss the case in agreement with lower courts that stated that the policy did not amount to unlawful discrimination and was not a violation of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Despite the ruling, the woman and the daughter were encouraged by the fact that two of the judges on the panel were sympathetic to their situation. They expressed their plans to take the case to the European court of human rights in Strasbourg, in an attempt "to protect the human rights of the many other women who make the lonely journey to England every week because they are denied access to basic healthcare services in their own country."

Liam Gibson, Northern Ireland development officer for Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, stated that the case had no basis in terms of human rights and should be seen instead as a "cynical attempt by the British abortion industry to get around Northern Ireland's legal protection for children before birth."

"This case was solely about money and who pays for abortion. Had the verdict gone the other way it would have led to the deaths of even more children and meant countless more women would have suffered the emotional and physical aftermath of abortion," Gibson said.

Statistics released by the Department of Health on Tuesday revealed that 724 women from Northern Ireland went to England for an abortion last year. The women pay between 400 (US$510) and 2,000 (US$2,553) to have the procedure performed privately because of the NHS policy that prohibits the funding of abortions for women from the region.
home World Venezuela president appeals to Pope Francis for help as violence in anti-government protests intensifies

Venezuelan president NicolAs Maduro has stated that he will ask Pope Francis to mediate in the country's political conflict with opposition groups, as the violence in anti-government protests has escalated.

On Sunday, Maduro said that he would ask the pope to persuade his opponents to stop "training children" to take part in the anti-government protests that have roiled the Venezuelan capital of Caracas since April.

"I am going to ask Pope Francis to help us so the opposition end the violence, but more than anything to stop looking for children to involve in violent acts," Maduro stated in a weekly television broadcast, according to Reuters.

Teenagers wearing face masks and throwing rocks have been regularly seen in the violent protests, that has resulted in the deaths of 67 people, six of whom were under 18.

Thousands of mostly peaceful demonstrators have been on the streets since April to express their rage over the delayed elections and worsening food shortages. Smaller groups have thrown rocks and petrol bombs at the police, prompting them to respond with tear gas and water cannons at the demonstrators.

Both sides have asked the Vatican to come up with a solution, but church-mediated talks broke down last year in acrimony.

The relationship between the government and Venezuela's Catholic hierarchy have become increasingly strained this year, with a spate of violent attacks targeting churches and other religious institutions.

On Thursday, the country's bishop's conference delivered a letter to the Pope, accusing the government of being a dictatorship.

Crux reported that there have been widespread attempts to suggest that there is a split between the country's bishops and the pope. But after a meeting with the pontiff on Thursday, the bishops said that the pope told them they have his "full trust."

"He told us that that he's very close to us and very well informed about the situation of Venezuela, and very close to the suffering of the people," said Archbishop Diego PadrAn, president of the Venezuelan Bishops' Conference.

"And he also told us that we have his full trust, and we have a great communion with him and his magisterium, so there's no distance between him and the conference," he added.

The prelates gave Francis a list of people who have been killed in the protests in the streets of Caracas and other Venezuelan cities, as well as a detailed documentation of what the conference has done so far.
home US White House says Jerry Falwell Jr. will be part of task force on higher education

The White House has confirmed that Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. will be involved in a planned task force on higher education.

In January, Falwell revealed that President Donald Trump and other officials had asked him to head a task force on reforming regulations related to higher education. However, there is still little information on the task force's role, membership, purview, and timing.

"We are working on a task force that Jerry Falwell will be involved with," a White House official, who was authorized to speak on the subject, told The Chronicle.

Falwell, a vocal supporter of Trump, first mentioned that task force during the time when he said Trump asked him to become the secretary of education, a post that went to Betsy DeVos. Last week, he said that the White House had asked him to be "one of 15 college presidents to work on the task force."

There had been speculations that plans for the task force may have been scrapped as Trump failed to mention it during his remarks at Liberty University's May 13 graduation or at the Faith and Freedom Coalition on June 9.

On May 31, the Department of Education released a letter that did not include Falwell among a list of people who would be working under its authority on regulation rollbacks.

On Sunday, a White House spokesman revealed that Falwell will be a part of a separate White House task force on higher education.

"This is a White House task force and not a Department of Education task force," Falwell told Politico.

The Liberty University president said that he is talking to different officials, "but we haven't had any substantive discussions on the issues yet."

Earlier this year, Falwell said that the president wanted him to lead the group that would tackle "overreaching regulation" and micromanagement of universities by the department.

"There's too much intrusion into the operation of universities and colleges. I've got a whole list of concerns. It mainly has to do with deregulation," he said.

According to the Chronicle, the Education Department is pursuing its own review of regulations in accordance with an executive order issued by Trump in February. Members of the Congress and others have questioned whether Falwell will be involved in the review, but a letter from a top official at the department seemed to suggest that the Liberty University president will not be participating in that effort.

"Within the department, the requirements of the executive order will be carried out through a collaborative effort by both political and career staff," the letter stated.
Police officers near Austin rescued an 8-week-old puppy from a locked car in a Wal-Mart parking lot this weekend, according to a report from the Manor Police Department.

A witness called the police after seeing a blonde puppy sitting inside a car that was not running.

DOG SAFETY: Florida dog riding on top of crate on freeway sparks outrage

When police arrived, they said they could hear the puppy crying and panting. Officers reached through a partially opened sunroof and used a tire iron to hit the unlock button and open the door and remove little Annabelle.

Officers gave water and air-conditioning to the overheated puppy, who they reported to be infested with fleas and had several lesions on her body.

YIKES: Vehicle full of dogs stolen outside Fuzzy's Taco Shop

The owner Chandler Bullen, 20, returned to his car from the store and officers asked him why he left the animal.

"I did not want to waste gas," replied Bullen.

According to the National Weather Service, the temperature was 99 degrees with a 109-degree heat index around the incident in Manor, Texas.

Bullen was arrested and charged with Cruelty to Non-Live Stock Animals, a Class A Misdemeanor. His bond was set at $4,000 and he could face up to a year in jail.
From the Grenfell Tower fire to Philando Castile demonstrations, there was plenty of upheaval echoing through the world this week.

Protesters and demonstrators took to the streets across the country after Officer Jeronimo Yanez was acquitted on all counts in Castile's shooting. Cologne also saw its own protest, under the motto "Not with us! Muslims and friends against violence and terror."
Houston commercial trial lawyer Robert M. Schick is heading back to Vinson & Elkins after launching a litigation boutique three years ago.

Schick, who handles energy, products liability and pharmaceutical litigation, left with other partners of Houston-based Vinson & Elkins to open Schick & Copeland in 2014.

The boutique, which recently added another former Vinson & Elkins lawyer, is now known as Copeland & Rice, said managing partner Morgan L. Copeland Jr. He said the firm was launched because clients want experienced trial lawyers but don't want to pay big firm overhead, including the cost of supporting far flung offices around the globe.

RELATED: Headquarters? Law firms take the Fifth

Schick began his career at Vinson & Elkins in 1981 when he graduated from law school. He became a partner of the Houston-based law firm, member of the management committee and co-led the firm's complex commercial litigation department.

RELATED: New law firms spur job hopping among lawyers

"I've had the good fortune to collaborate with my friends and colleagues at V&E on several matters over the past three years and increasingly felt the call to return to the place I called home for more than three decades," Schick said in a written statement.
An application filed with Houston's Planning and Development Department show plans to build out Timber Forest Drive for a 390-acre subdivision on the shore of Lake Houston.

The Reserve at Lakewood Pines is an expansion of the Lakewood Pines Preserve homes being marketed by KB Homes, with houses priced from $203,000 to $254,000, and of the near-waterfront Lakewood Pines Estates, priced from $274,000 to $393,000.
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Boeing unveiled plans for a new, bigger version of its best-selling jetliner in an attempt to make up ground against rival Airbus.

The company announced the 737 MAX 10 Monday at the Paris Air Show. The fuselage of the MAX 10 is 5 1/2 feet longer than Boeing's MAX 9, making the model more attractive to airlines looking to fit as many passengers as possible into a single-aisle jet.

"Airlines wanted a larger, better option in the large single-aisle segment with the operating advantages of the 737 MAX family," Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister said in a statement. "Adding the 737 MAX 10 gives our customers the most flexibility in the market, providing their fleets the range capability, fuel efficiency and unsurpassed reliability that the 737 MAX family is widely known for."

The MAX 10 will be able to carry up to 230 passengers, around 50 more than the capacity of a typical MAX 9.

The MAX series, which touts increased fuel efficiency due to new engines and redesigned aerodynamics, is the fastest-selling plane in the company's history with more than 3,700 orders to date. The MAX 8, the first of the series, entered service last month. The MAX 9 will debut in Paris this week.

Boeing announced more than 240 orders of the MAX 10 for more than 10 customers, including 40 for India-based SpiceJet and 50 for Indonesian carrier Lion Air.

"The Lion Air Group was first in the world to put the 737 MAX 8 into service and the first to order the 737 MAX 9," Lion Air Group President Edward Sirait said in a statement, "We continue to lead the way again with this commitment for 50 737 MAX 10s and help launch the latest version of the 737."

Founded in Seattle in 1916, Boeing has recently lagged behind Airbus, its biggest rival, with the French-based company boasting 547 more orders from 2013 to 2016. However, Boeing has outpaced Airbus in deliveries over that time by a 2,881 to 2,578 margin.

Boeing made several other sales announcements on Monday in Paris, which you can see in the gallery above along with photos and renderings of the 737 MAX series jets. The annual air show runs through June 25.

Seattlepi.com reporter Stephen Cohen can be reached at 206-448-8313 or stephencohen@seattlepi.com. Follow Stephen on Twitter at @scohenPI.
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Texas industry leaders, scientists and regulators must identify and understand the environmental and social risk of shale oil and gas drilling before air pollution, water contamination or other effects lead to tighter restrictions that could derail the rebounding industry, the leader of a new study said on Monday.

We really do thrive on the availability of energy in the United States, said the University of Houstons Christine Ehlig-Economides, chairman of a shale task force convened by The Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas. If we find that there are barriers, significant barriers that should put a stop to this kind of development, then the impacts are huge.
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President Donald Trump has been in the public's eye for decades thanks to his business endevours, but this Father's Day, his children gave us a sneak peek into his home life.

All but one of his children on social media shared photos wishing the president a Father's Day - two of them sharing vintage photos of Trump. The president's wife also gave him a shout out.

First Lady Melania Trump kept it simple saying, "#HappyFathersDay @POTUS (heart emoji)." Her tweet doesn't compare with the tributes the president's children boasted.

Ivanka Trump went the traditional route and shared a photo of her dad and husband saying, "What an amazing year it has been for us all. Happy #FathersDay to these two incredible dads!"

In an earlier tweet, Ivanka wrote to her husband, Jared, individually, saying, "Happy Father's Day! Thank you, Jared, for loving, encouraging and teaching our kids (and me!) everyday. We love you very much #fathersday"

LEARN MORE: This is the one thing you never noticed about Ivanka Trump's eyes

Donald Trump Jr. and Tiffany Trump took a more vintage approach to their #1 dad shout outs.

Tiffany shared two photos forming a heart on Instagram saying, "Happy Father's Day @realdonaldtrump! (double heart emoji)"

Donald Jr. wrote on Twitter, "Happy Father's Day dad. Thanks for everything you've taught us and for fighting everyday to #maga. We love you #fathersday." In case you're wondering #maga is the abbreviation of Trump's campaign slogan of "Make America Great Again."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: President Trump celebrates first birthday in the White House

Happy Father's Day @realdonaldtrump! A post shared by Tiffany Ariana Trump (@tiffanytrump) on Jun 18, 2017 at 4:08pm PDT

The only children not to give a direct shout out to the pops were Barron and Eric Trump. Naturally, Barron can't because he isn't on social media, but Eric's Twitter thread was missing a post made by him wishing the president a happy Father's Day.

The only Father's Day post was a retweet from his wife's account saying, "Wishing a #HappyFathersDay to all the dads out there, and to my dad, father-in-law & (future Father's Day) to my husband! Love you all!"

Where's the embarrassingly adorable vintage photo of the president, Eric? Maybe we'll get a happy be-lated Father's Day post on Monday. Only time will tell.

TOUCHING SERVICE: Trump family show renewed life of rescued Texas stray dog
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On Friday night, the 21st Annual Electric Daisy Carnival kicked off in Las Vegas with over 135,000 attendees at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Insomniac Productions, the people behind the new Middlelands festival in Texas, lined up premiere Electric Dance Music artists like Gramatik, Excision, Diplo, Marshmello, and more for EDC guests to jam out to.

TEXAS EDM FESTIVAL: Texas RenFest won't host Middlelands fest next year

Along with the music, attendees enjoyed carnival rides, art, light shows, fireworks and hundreds of scantily-clad people.

Though, some partied too hard.

KSNV-TV reports that dozens of felony arrests were made along with hundreds of medical calls throughout the two-day event.

During the first night of the carnival on Friday, there were 443 medical calls that required six to be transported to area hospitals, 29 felony narcotic arrests and KSNV reports 118 people had to be ejected from the festival.

FAILS: Social media users react after FPSF canceled due to rain for 4th year in a row

Things seemed to quiet down a bit on Saturday with 305 medical calls that required five to be transported to area hospitals, 27 felony narcotics arrests and 77 people were ejected, the TV station reports.

The party didn't stop on Sunday as 38 felony arrests, 34 of which were narcotics-related, 342 medical calls were made with four transported to a local hospital and 87 people were ejected, KSNV reported Monday.

Last year's festival was comparable with about 110 arrests on drug charges and 17 people were taken to the area hospital, though about 400,000 people attended the carnival in 2016.

Take a look through the gallery to see the sights of this year, as well as last year's EDC scenes.

LOOK BACK: This is what Electric Dance Carnival looked like in 2016
Astros make decision on Trey Mancini contract for 2023 season The veteran was among two Houston players who had their options declined on Wednesday morning.

Texas Democrats look to a future beyond Beto O'Rourke's defeat underscored just how dominant the Republican Party remains in Texas,

10 places in Houston to order Thanksgiving takeout this year You won't have to spend the holiday in the kitchen with these great meals to-go.
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Texas A&M University System regents on Monday tapped Ruth Simmons to lead Prairie View A&M University as interim president.

Simmons, the first-ever black president of an Ivy League university, has lived in Houston since her retirement from Brown University in Rhode Island in 2012, Prairie View A&M said in a press release.

"I have deep roots in Texas, and I was looking for a way to do something helpful for my community," she said in a statement.

Simmons will start at Prairie View A&M on July 1. Before leading Brown, she served as president at Smith College in Massachusetts and held leadership positions at Princeton University in New Jersey and Spelman College, a historically black college in Atlanta.

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She grew up and went to public school in Houston before graduating from Dillard University in New Orleans.

"We are fortunate to have such a high-caliber scholar and administrator who can step in without missing a beat," Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp said in a statement. "Dr. Simmons has been an important figure on the national stage for decades. She has the credentials to be the president of any university in America. I am so excited to have her join us."

Longtime Prairie View A&M president George Wright said last week that he would step down as president after 14 years to focus on research and teaching.

Lauretta Byars, Prairie View A&M's vice president for student affairs and institutional advancement, said last week that the next president must balance Prairie View A&M's commitment to teaching underserved students with state demands to graduate students on time.
June 9

At 3 pm, an officer was dispatched to the 2600 block of Albans in reference to an accident that had already occurred.

June 10

At 12:59 pm, an officer was dispatched to the 2700 block of Bissonnet in reference to a burglary of a motor vehicle that had already occurred.

Officers were dispatched to a major accident in the 6700 block of Stella Link. The driver of the first vehicle was arrested and charged with DWI and Fail to Stop and Give Information. The passenger of the first vehicle was arrested and charged with public intoxication.

June 11

At 9:10 am, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a case of found property. The reportee said he found a child's stroller and a scooter chair in the 6200 block of Auden.

At 8:55 pm, a Police Officer was dispatched to the City of La Porte Police Department to pick up a prisoner, who had outstanding warrants with the City of West University Place Police Department.

June 12

At 12:04 pm, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 5600 block of Buffalo Speedway on a vehicle that was in operation with an expired registration sticker. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the driver of the vehicle was in possession of an illegal controlled substance. The driver was subsequently arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

June 13

At 6:58 am, an officer observed a vehicle in operation that was displaying a fictitious registration/ paper plate traveling south bound in the 6700 block of Buffalo Speedway. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was subsequently arrested for fictitious registration.

An officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regards to an Identity Theft.

June 14

At 2:25 pm, an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a case of Identity Theft.

At 8:17 pm, a Police Officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a Credit Card Abuse call, which had already occurred.
A new report singled out Texas Christian University as the state's leader in liquor- and drug-related arrests on college campuses.

Project Know, a source for alcohol addicts and their families, looked at non-profit, four-year colleges with at least 10,000 enrolled students to compare arrests by wet and dry campuses.
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A pit bull in Spring is getting a safe new home, and the dog's previous owner faces a year in jail after the dog survived a brutal attack in February.

The dog's attacker, Cody Tyler Tombros, 25, pleaded guilty June 15 to felony animal abuse for stomping on and throwing the dog, and will serve out his sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice facility.
A man's struggle against deportation arrives in federal court, a deep dive into challenges in the community of Sunnyside and an update on the mysterious case of Mary Cerruti - all in this week's long-form and investigative reporting.

Out of Time: Deportation fight adds legal firepower

By Olivia P. Tallet

@oliviaptallet

Juan Rodriguez has to appear before Immigration and Customs Enforcement on June 29 to be deported, and the clock is ticking. For his family  his wife, Celia, and their three daughters, Karen, Rebecca and Kimberly  the days are moving too fast, and the nights are restless. But as the day draws nearer, a team of legal warriors is rallying around the immigrant from El Salvador.

Mountains of cocaine and homegrown terror plots: Magidson's storied career comes to abrupt close

By Gabrielle Banks

@GabMoBanks

After four decades in the courtroom, U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson anticipated his eventual ouster following Trump's victory in November and planned a graceful exit at the end of April with goodbyes and a farewell cake.

But that's not how it went down.

Steve Gonzales/Houston Chronicle

Cause of death released in Heights bones case

By Emily Foxhall

@emfoxhall

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences has released a long-awaited cause of death determination for bones found months ago in the wall of a Heights bungalow, where a woman had gone missing several years before.

Their findings on cause and manner of death? Undetermined. Part of a series on the life - and disappearance - of Houstonian Mary Cerruti.

Agapito Sanchez for Casa Ramirez/Courtesy of Casa Ramirez

Prosperity to Poverty: Loss of jobs, business puts Sunnyside in peril

By John D. Harden

@jdharden

It was once known as the Black Wall Street. But today, Sunnyside has the highest unemployment rate in Houston, a whopping 29 percent. What happened to the once-vibrant community and its thriving mom-and-pop businesses?

Is criminalizing mental illness in Texas the best means for care?

By Emily Foxhall

@emfoxhall

Shelia Muldrow sat in her usual courtroom pew. Her son had another criminal hearing. In the coming hours, she did not know what to expect.

After 18 months, the case finally neared an end. If the judge sent him to prison, he would not die on the street. He would be safe. He would get medicine. It was not ideal, but was it the best solution for which to hope? Foxhall has been following Muldrow's quest for care for her son.
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Houston in June is hot and while we are still in the low 90s in temperatures, the humidity often makes outdoor activities extremely sweaty and sticky.

Despite the heat, Houston's young people headed out for a few activities in the sun.

Saturday, the 2017 Hot Undies Run took over Rice Village. Clad in just their nickers, participants raised money for Girls On The Run of Greater Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy and confident through activities and running.

SUMMER STYLE: 15 swimsuits for every body type to rock this season

The attendees in the undies started at Gorgeous Gael's Irish Pub for a pre-race warm up with a beer at the bar. They then ran through Rice Village nearly in their birthday suits, which likely shocked many of the shoppers along the two-mile route through the retail area.

The weekend's festivities continued with the Romper Pub Crawl in Midtown.

Both men and women attended the event in their favorite rompers. Yes, men were wearing rompers, too.

COOL OFF: Texas' top swimming holes to kick back and relax in this summer

In case you've been living under a rock, The RompHim is the latest male fashion release that broke the internet in May. It's just like the female version of the romper but for the fellas.

Look through the gallery above to see the good looking young Houstonians who went out for fun over the weekend.

MORE ON THE FASHION TREND: Internet 'Hillbilly' reviews his male romper
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A man who admitted he robbed a bank so he could be arrested to avoid his wife was sentenced Tuesday to six months of home confinement, essentially achieving the opposite result.

Lawrence John Ripple, 70, in January pleaded guilty to a September Kansas City, Kansas, bank robbery.

According to court documents obtained by the Star-Telegram, Ripple handed a bank teller a note that read: "I have a gun, give me money." The teller handed him $2,924, that outlet reports.

He then allegedly sat in the Bank of Labor lobby until a guard approached him, and Ripple reportedly said: "I'm the guy you're looking for."

CRIME: Elderly couple set house on fire to lure police into ambush

"Ripple wrote out his demand note in front of his wife ... and told her he'd rather be in jail than at home," an FBI agent wrote in the affidavit, according to the Kansas City Star. He told the bureau officials that he and his wife had argued earlier in the day and that he "no longer wanted to be in that situation."

It's unusual for a person convicted of bank robbery to avoid jail time.

His attorney, public defender Chekasha Ramsey, told the judge that Ripple and his wife were attending mandatory counseling. She said he had no criminal record and is an upstanding father to his four children. The 70-year-old was also unarmed at the time of the incident.

"Mr. Ripple understands what he did and he respects the law as indicated by his past behavior," she said.

He told the judge he was undergoing depression after having quadruple bypass heart surgery when he committed the crime, the outlet reports. He said he's now on medication and now more stable.

Ripple's wife and family were with him at court Tuesday. He said he is remorseful and that he did not intend to frighten the bank teller.

On top of the six-month sentence, Ripple was ordered to pay $227.27 to the bank he robbed. He must also serve 50 hours of community and three years of supervised probation.
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.
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Read on to learn about our top six picks for GRC certifications, as well links to relevant GRC resources.

All kinds of job roles require or benefit from a GRC certification, including CIO, IT security analyst, security engineer or architect, information assurance program manager and senior IT auditor, among others. And getting GRC certified can be lucrative, as the median salary for professionals with governance-related certifications was $115,000 in 2017, second most of all certification categories according to the 2017 Global Knowledge Salary Report.

The goal of GRC, in general, is to ensure that proper policies and controls are in place to reduce risk, to set up a system of checks and balances to alert personnel when new risks materialize and to manage business processes more efficiently and proactively. Professionals with a GRC certification must juggle stakeholder expectations with business objectives and ensure that organizational objectives are met while also meeting compliance requirements. Thats an incredible amount of responsibility, and its absolutely necessary in todays business climate.

In the wake of several well-publicized corporate scandals about 15 years ago  Enron and WorldCom, to name two  and the passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, organizations that must adhere to regulations for data security, financial accountability and consumer privacy found they couldnt do without someone to make sure internal processes are being carried out properly. Enter the need for competent governance, risk and compliance (GRC) professionals.

In the wake of several well-publicized corporate scandals about 15 years ago  Enron and WorldCom, to name two  and the passage of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in 2002, organizations that must adhere to regulations for data security, financial accountability and consumer privacy found they couldnt do without someone to make sure internal processes are being carried out properly. Enter the need for competent governance, risk and compliance (GRC) professionals.

The goal of GRC, in general, is to ensure that proper policies and controls are in place to reduce risk, to set up a system of checks and balances to alert personnel when new risks materialize and to manage business processes more efficiently and proactively. Professionals with a GRC certification must juggle stakeholder expectations with business objectives and ensure that organizational objectives are met while also meeting compliance requirements. Thats an incredible amount of responsibility, and its absolutely necessary in todays business climate.

All kinds of job roles require or benefit from a GRC certification, including CIO, IT security analyst, security engineer or architect, information assurance program manager and senior IT auditor, among others. And getting GRC certified can be lucrative, as the median salary for professionals with governance-related certifications was $115,000 in 2017, second most of all certification categories according to the 2017 Global Knowledge Salary Report.

Read on to learn about our top six picks for GRC certifications, as well links to relevant GRC resources.

1. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

One of the most sought-after GRC certifications by candidates and employers alike is the CRISC from ISACA, which identifies IT professionals who are responsible for managing IT and enterprise risk and ensuring that risk management goals are met. A CRISC is often heavily involved with overseeing the development, implementation and maintenance of information system (IS) controls designed to secure systems and manage risk. Since 2010, ISACA has issued over 20,000 CRISC credentials  a relatively high number in the GRC certification field.

To earn the CRISC, you must pass one exam that covers four domains: IT Risk Identification (Domain 1), IT Risk Assessment (Domain 2), Risk Response and Mitigation (Domain 3), and Risk and Control Monitoring and Reporting (Domain 4). The exam contains 150 questions, takes up to four hours to complete and costs $575 (ISACA members) or $760 (nonmembers).

In addition, you must prove a minimum of three years of cumulative work experience in IT risk and information systems associated with at least two of the four domains, adhere to the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics and comply with the CRISC Continuing Education Policy.

CRISC professionals are among the highest paid of all certified professionals, with a median salary of $122,900, according to Global Knowledge.

2. Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)

The CGEIT certification, by ISACA, recognizes IT professionals with deep knowledge of enterprise IT governance principles and practices as well as the ability to enhance value to the organization through governance and risk optimization measures and to align IT with business strategies and goals. Since the program started, more than 7,000 individuals have achieved the CGEIT credential through ISACA.

To earn the CGEIT credential, you need to pass one exam (150 questions, four hours) covering five domains: Framework for the Governance of Enterprise IT (Domain 1), Strategic Management (Domain 2), Benefits Realization (Domain 3), Risk Optimization (Domain 4) and Resource Optimization (Domain 5). The exam costs $525 for ISACA members or $760 for non-members.

The qualifications for the CGEIT are at least five years of cumulative work experience in IT enterprise governance, including at least one year defining, implementing and managing a governance framework. Candidates must also adhere to the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics and comply with the CGEIT Continuing Education Policy.

3. Project Management Institute  Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP)

Anyone who has pursued a project management certification is familiar with the Project Management Institute (PMI), either through research or by picking up the coveted Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. However, PMI also offers the Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) certification, as well as several others that focus on business management, business analysis, agile and scheduling.

The PMI-RMP identifies IT professionals involved with large projects or working in complex environments who assess and identify project-based risks. They are also competent in designing and implementing mitigation plans that counter the risks from system vulnerabilities, natural disasters and the like.

The PMI-RMP exam covers five knowledge domains: Risk Strategy and Planning (Domain 1), Stakeholder Engagement (Domain 2), Risk Process Facilitation (Domain 3), Risk Monitoring and Reporting (Domain 4) and Perform Specialized Risk Analyses (Domain 5). The exam has 170 multiple-choice questions, takes up to 3.5 hours to complete and costs $520 (PMI members) or $670 (non-members).

You must also meet experience and education requirements. One option is to have a secondary degree (high school diploma, associates degree or global equivalent), and at least 4,500 hours of project risk management experience and 40 hours of project risk management education. The second option is a four-year degree (bachelors degree or global equivalent), at least 3,000 hours of project risk management experience and 30 hours of project risk management education.

4. ITIL Expert

Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certifications are tied to the ITIL framework, which describes best practices for designing, implementing and managing a wide variety of IT service projects. In ITIL-speak, certifications are referred to as qualifications, which create a classic certification ladder beginning with the basic-level ITIL Foundation and culminating with the pinnacle ITIL Master. One rung below the Master level is the popular ITIL Expert.

A professional with the ITIL Expert qualification has a deep understanding of ITIL service best practices as they apply across an IT environment, not just to one service area. In other words, the Expert is able to support an organization by bridging service lifecycle stages, seeing the big picture as a sum of the parts.

To achieve the ITIL Expert qualification, you must first earn the ITIL Foundation certificate or a Bridge qualification equivalent, and then acquire at least 17 credits per the ITIL Credit System. Finally, take an approved training course and pass the Managing Across the Lifecycle (MALC) exam at the end. Training costs vary among vendors, but expect to pay in the range of $1,800 (online) to $5,000 (classroom), which includes training and the exam.

For a deeper look at ITIL certification, see ITIL certification guide: Mastering IT services management.

5. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) is a global professional association that provides information, networking opportunities and education to auditors in business, government and the financial services industry. One of the IIAs certifications is the CRMA, which recognizes individuals who are involved with risk management and assurance, governance, quality assurance and control self-assessment. A CRMA is considered a trusted advisor to senior management and members of audit committees in large organizations.

Achieving the CRMA credential requires passing a multiple-choice exam (100 questions, up to two hours) through Pearson VUE. The exam costs $380 for IIA members or $495 for non-members.

In addition, you must have a 3- or 4-year post-secondary degree (or higher). Alternatives to the bachelors degree are two years of post-secondary education and five years of internal auditing experience (or equivalent) or seven years of internal auditing experience. The IIA also requires proof of at least two years of auditing experience or control-related business experience in risk management or quality assurance. Finally, you need to provide a character reference signed by a person holding an IIA certification or a supervisor, provide proof of identification and agree to abide by the Code of Ethics established by The IIA.

6. GRC Professional (GRCP)

OCEG is a member-driven, global organization dedicated to providing information, education and certification on GRC to its members and the greater community. With only a few but well-respected certifications in its program, the GRCP is a solid credential aimed at a broad range of industries and practices.

The single exam covers basic terms and concepts, GRC principles, and core components and practices, as well as the relationship of GRC to other disciplines. The GRCP is required for the higher-level GRC Audit certification. The exam contains 100 questions and takes up to two hours to complete. OCEG offers an All Access Pass for $395 (auto-renews) or $495 (no renewal), which provides everything you need to prepare for and take the exam. This includes all live and archived webinars, OCEG Standards, Guides and Resources, eLearning program, and the exam.

Resources for the GRC community

There are plenty of resources on the web of interest to budding and long-time GRC professionals, and some may be useful for pursuing a GRC certification. Here are a few sites to add to your GRC toolkit:

ComplianceWeek: This site is an excellent source of resources for the GRC community. You can find news articles, whitepapers, GRC reports, conference materials, job opportunities and much more. The site also features free, one-hour webcasts most weeks, which are available on demand after each event, and many are eligible for continuing professional education (CPE) credits.

The GRC Bluebook: Advertising itself as the online GRC knowledgebase, youll find great reviews on GRC tools (and there are a bunch!), news articles, risk practices, industry events and lots more.

CareersInfoSecurity: As the site implies, you will find a job board section. But CareersInfoSecurity goes well beyond that with a training library, news and other content aimed at information security, risk management, and privacy and fraud professionals. Using the sites search tool, enter grc to zero-in on related resources.

Security Management: The freely available online magazine by ASIS International covers different types of security: national, physical, cyber and strategic. Youll find enterprise risk management articles in the Strategic Security section, as well as access to podcasts and webinars.

LinkedIn: Search for grc group and sign up for a few that look most interesting to you, then start networking. A good general group is Governance, Risk & Compliance (grc). This population of GRC experts have been through the certification process and will be willing to offer advice or insights to your certification questions. LinkedIn also has a job board thats becoming one of the best around.

Good luck with your GRC training and certification pursuits!
Even doctors can be addicted to opioids, in a way: Its hard to stop prescribing them.

Melissa Jones is on a mission to break doctors of their habit, and in the process try to turn the tide of the painkiller epidemic that has engulfed 2 million Americans.

It was in doctors offices where the epidemic began, and its in doctors offices where it must be fought. So Jones is using some of the same tactics pharmaceutical sales forces used to push their potent pills into communities  this time, to get them out.

She drives 100 miles a day to visit doctors across western Pennsylvanias Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, where prescription painkillers and their illicit cousin, heroin, killed more than 600 people last year. Bearing a smile, educational pamphlets and sometimes sandwiches, she is working to help doctors stick to new national prescribing guidelines, give them tips on how to handle patients demanding pills and remind them that opioids arent very good for chronic pain anyway.

Most people trust their doctors, said Jones boss, Cheryl Bartlett. But we havent trained doctors about addiction, how to recognize it early and treat it in their practices. Why not help doctors better understand how to care for their patients?

The rate of opioid prescribing has started to edge down in recent years, but it remains 56 percent higher than it was 20 years ago, enough to provide nearly every adult in America with a bottle of pills. The number of overdose deaths is still climbing, from pills that have been prescribed and from the surge of even more powerful opioids like fentanyl on the black market, where many turn for cheaper drugs after becoming addicted.

While narcotics can bring short-term pain relief and help patients with cancer and in end-of-life care, theyre often misprescribed.

Increasingly, the fight to save lives has put doctors in the crosshairs: They often feel they have no good choices to treat pain, and not enough time with patients who are already dependent on opioids.

Pennsylvania is among about a dozen states where people like Jones try to flip the script on drug marketing and push doctors toward change. Despite mounting evidence about the dangers of opioids  and their limited benefits for chronic pain  far less is known about what works to change doctors behavior.

Whats taking so long to reverse this thing? asked an exasperated Dr. Gary Franklin, a University of Washington researcher who, more than a decade ago, published a paper sounding the alarm about fatal overdoses in patients prescribed opioids.

Across the U.S., lawmakers are restricting how doctors handle millions of quick encounters with patients in pain.

In Pennsylvania, where the opioid death rate is above the national average and rising, doctors now face sanctions if they fail to check a state-run database to flag those getting narcotics from multiple doctors. Massachusetts bars doctors from prescribing more than a seven-day supply to first-time opioid patients. Washington state wont let doctors prescribe high doses without consulting a pain specialist. And an Illinois congressman wants all U.S. opioid prescribers to take classes every three years.

Jones uses a gentler approach. Her visits, funded by state lottery dollars, are voluntary and part of a program for low-income seniors run by the Boston-based nonprofit organization Alosa Health. Jones and her colleagues visit 2,600 Pennsylvania doctors a year to talk about opioids and other issues.

It used to be difficult for Dr. Dorothy Wilhelm, a geriatrics doctor in Monroeville outside of Pittsburgh, to get patients to agree to a urine screen to test for prescription medications and illicit drugs. Now, with new guidelines and pocket cards from Jones that help her explain the screens, patients dont fight her anymore.

Evidence from New York Citys public health department and the Veterans Health Administration suggests Jones and others like her can reduce opioid prescribing, adapting a tried-and-true tactic from the pharmaceutical industry called detailing.

Drug companies send charismatic sales reps to visit doctors with free pens, lunches and pill samples, along with sometimes-skewed information.

In 2007, Purdue Pharma agreed to pay more than $600 million in fines for falsely informing its sales force that its opioid pill OxyContin had less potential for addiction and abuse than other painkillers. The marketing helped feed a 20-year trend of skyrocketing prescribing.

Jones, who has a nursing background, is fighting back with a charm offensive of science-backed facts.

When I see her coming, I know Im going to learn something and its fair, said Dr. Rudy Antoncic, an internist in McKeesport.

Antoncic said he doesnt have time to monitor patients for addiction, discuss overdose reversal drugs or follow other steps in new opioid-prescribing guidelines  so he refers patients to pain specialists instead.

Im forced to say, Go to the pain clinic. Let those guys figure it out, he said.

Pain medicine emerged in the 1970s as a specialty. Many pain specialists prescribe responsibly, but others are notorious over-prescribers, handing out medicine to known addicts. Jones would rather see her doctors keep their patients and follow the guidelines.

Over sandwiches at a large medical practice in Monroeville recently, Jones quizzed two doctors about whats slowing down change. Their answers boiled down to choices, time and money.

The problem with treating pain is there are not a lot of options, said Dr. Richard Rosenthal. Tylenol can affect the liver. Anti-inflammatories can affect the heart, the liver, the kidneys. Youre not supposed to use muscle relaxants with elderly patients.

Dr. Chaitali Sarkar said patients want pills for instant gratification and resist safer alternatives.

We need more than 20 minutes to talk to patients, Sarkar told Jones. Everybodys stretched thin.

Jones reminds doctors that opioids side effects  besides addiction and death  include constipation and, in men, low testosterone.

Minimizing harm by getting off opioids can seem a dismal prospect to patients, unless a doctor offers other ways to cope with pain.

What about tai chi, massage or acupuncture? Jones asked, pointing to research in the educational materials she gave the doctors. Those usually arent covered by insurance so can be expensive for patients, Rosenthal said. Physical therapy might be covered, but co-pays add up.

Many chronic pain patients with valid opioid prescriptions become addicted _ the best guess is about 1 in 10, according to an analysis of 38 studies.

For patients dependent on opioids, Jones makes sure doctors know how to taper them gradually to a lower dose. A pocket card she gives them suggests starting off by cutting the dose by a quarter or a half each week, which prompts scoffs from most doctors.

Cutting a dose in half would not be well-received by patients, Rosenthal said.

Start off slower, Jones nudged, reminding that using antihistamines or antidiarrheal drugs can help manage withdrawal symptoms.

Another big worry for doctors trying to limit opioids for patients: Some patients may seek pills from dealers on the street.

Its been more than a year since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published the first national prescribing guidelines for opioids. The action was followed quickly by most state governors signing an unprecedented Compact to Fight Opioid Addiction.

The ultimate goal is fewer deaths, but it may take years.

Research suggests it takes somewhere between 13 to 17 years for a new guideline to get fully implemented, said University of Colorado researcher Robert Valuck, who coordinates his states response to the opioid crisis.

Among laws aimed at doctors, one of the more promising requires them to check a prescription drug-monitoring database to weed out patients with multiple doctors, pharmacies and prescriptions. Most states now have these databases. Pennsylvania is among the few requiring doctors to check it every time they prescribe an opioid.

One study found states requiring such checks, combined with restrictions on pain clinics, reduced opioid prescribing by 8 percent and prescription opioid overdose death rates by 12 percent, without increasing heroin overdose deaths.

Doctors tell Jones they love the new requirement because it keeps them from being fooled into feeding addiction. Some patients even say they dont want to be tracked, so will stop taking opioids. If doctors can change their behavior and patients can change their expectations, there may be hope.

We cant wait 17 years, Valuck said. The cost to society is too great. We have to address this problem as aggressively as we can.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The British government Sunday scrambled to contain political fallout from the London high-rise inferno that has claimed at least 58 lives as officials focused on building materials that may have spread the fire quickly.

The cause of Wednesdays blaze is still under investigation, but anger has mounted in the community amid reports that exterior paneling used in an extensive renovation completed last year may have been banned by U.K. rules.

Two government ministers  Treasury chief Philip Hammond and Trade Minister Greg Hands  said Sunday the cladding used on the buildings exterior seems to be banned by British regulations.

My understanding is that the cladding that was reported wasnt in accordance with U.K. building regulations, Hands told Sky News. We need to find out precisely what cladding was used and how it was attached.

He said the government is carrying out an urgent inspection of other tower blocks in Britain to assess safety. He said there are roughly 2,500 similar apartment towers throughout Britain.

Labour Party lawmaker David Lammy said that the government and the police should immediately seize all documents relating to the buildings renovation to prevent the destruction of evidence that could show criminal wrongdoing.

The prime minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law, Lammy said.

He said all records, including emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence with contractors, safety assessments, specifications and reports  must be kept intact.

When the truth comes out about this tragedy, we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organizations, Lammy said.

In addition, British health authorities will provide long-term bereavement counseling for those who lost loved ones in the tragedy. Counselors are already working with 52 families.

There has been a public outcry at the governments initial failure to provide up-to-the minute information.

Prime Minister Theresa May, criticized in the first few days after the blaze for failing to meet with victims, says the public inquiry looking into the tragedy will report directly to her.

She says she will receive daily reports from the stricken neighborhood, where hundreds of people have been displaced. Anger among residents has been mounting in recent days as information about the missing has been scanty and efforts to find temporary housing have faltered.

British officials say they are helping the Syrian family of the first officially confirmed victim of the London tower blaze to come to Britain.

The Home Office said late Saturday night it will make arrangements for the family of Mohammad Alhajali to travel to the U.K. in these terribly sad circumstances.

The 23-year-old Alhajali is the only victim of the Grenfell Tower fire to be officially named as the difficult process of identifying human remains continues.

His family said in a statement that Alhajali came to the U.K. because he had ambitions and aims for his life and for his family.

Police say at least 58 people are either confirmed or presumed dead, with the figure likely to rise in coming days.

Officials are using dental records, fingerprints and DNA samples to try and positively identify victims. They say they will also use visual elements like tattoos and scars, in the painstaking process.

Sixteen bodies have been taken to a mortuary for examination.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Dozens of insurance companies say theyre not obligated to help pay for Duke Energy Corp.s multi-billion dollar coal ash cleanup because the nations largest electric company long knew about but did nothing to reduce the threat of potentially toxic pollutants.

The claim is in a filing by lawyers for nearly 30 international and domestic insurance companies that were sued by Duke Energy in March to force them to cover part of the utilitys coal ash cleanup costs in the Carolinas.

The 57 policies generally promise to help Duke pay what its legally obligated to pay for property damage caused by an occurrence, even if liability for an incident doesnt become known until decades later, the Charlotte-based company said in the same filing last week in the state court that hears complex business cases. Both sides filed the document in describing a litigation timeline that would lead to trial in mid-2019.

The insurers counter theyre not on the hook to pay. They say that because Duke Energy stored its coal ash in unlined pits as part of its normal practices, any property damage was caused intentionally, by or at Dukes direction and there werent any distinct pollution events that triggered coverage.

They note that Duke was well aware that burning coal to generate electricity leaves byproducts containing toxic substances that can contaminate groundwater. They say Dukes ash ponds were built without safeguards to prevent groundwater pollution, and some ash ponds placed the ash in direct contact with groundwater.

Duke continued to dispose of (coal ash) in unlined ash ponds long after it knew it had environmental problems. By the 1990s Duke submitted insurance claims to some of the defendants and other insurers for the same ash ponds that are now at issue in this action. Although Duke was aware of these issues, it continued to operate its unlined ash ponds for decades, the companies lawyers said.

Duke Energy has estimated its liability for cleanup and storage efforts at $5.1 billion for 14 North Carolina coal ash sites and one in South Carolina. The utility had spent more than $725 million through November. Money recovered from insurers would reduce the price tag for consumers, the company has said.

The utility earlier this month asked North Carolina regulators for rate increases starting next year that include passing along to customers about $977 million over five years. South Carolinas utilities commission allowed Duke Energy Progress to start recouping coal ash cleanup costs as part of a $56 million rate increase approved in December.

Coal ash contains arsenic, lead, mercury and other elements that may be hazardous in sufficient concentrations. Environmentalists and state regulators have alleged those heavy metals have been draining through the unlined bottoms of pits where liquefied coal ash has been stored for decades.

A pit at a Duke Energy plant in North Carolina ruptured in 2014, coating miles of the Dan River in gray sludge.

Duke Energy said it stored coal ash in line with industry practices and regulations that were in place over preceding decades.

Duke Energy delivers electricity to about 7.4 million customers in the Carolinas, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Florida.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
AKRON, Ohio -- A 15-year-old boy died Sunday after he was stabbed in Akron's Summit Lake neighborhood, officials said.

The boy was stabbed during an altercation that happened just before 8 p.m. on West Long Street near Victory Street, the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office said in a news release.

The boy died after paramedics took him to Cleveland Clinic Akron General for treatment.

His identity will be released once his family has been notified, the medical examiner's office said.

The Akron Police Department has not released any additional information about the fatal stabbing.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
STOW, Ohio -- A Stow man threatened a pizza delivery driver with a knife before he stole his money and car, police said.

Matthew Robert Guzik, 45, is charged with aggravated robbery in the Sunday incident on Hibbard Drive near Sunnyside Drive, police said in a news release.

Officers arrested Guzik without incident Monday in Sagamore Hills. Details of his arrest were not immediately available.

Guzik provided a false name when he ordered the pizza, but he gave his real address for the delivery, police said.

The driver arrived just before 7 p.m. and met Guzik at the door. Guzik pulled out a knife and said he was angry over personal problems, police said.

Guzik took the driver's money before he drove off in the man's 2011 Hyundai Sonata, police said. The driver was not hurt.

Guzik remains in custody at the Summit County Jail. His arraignment is scheduled Monday in Stow Municipal Court.

If you'd like to comment on this story, visit Monday's crime and courts comments section.
MEDINA --- Burglary, Guilford Boulevard: Police reported a burglary at a home in the 800 block of Gilford Boulevard at 1:43 a.m. June 19. According to the victim, a rock was thrown through a window and an Xbox gaming system was stolen.

Assault, E. Smith Road: A man reported that a woman "charged at and hit him" at 5:30 p.m. June 18. The incident was under investigation at the time of the report.

Suspicion, N. Court Street: A 46-year-old Medina man was arrested at 8:06 a.m. June 18 after police investigated a suspicious vehicle. Initial reports did not indicate what the man was specifically arrested for.

Suspicious vehicle, W. Sturbridge Drive: The occupants of a car in a parking lot after hours at 10:12 p.m. June 17 were warned by police and released.

If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page.
MEDINA, Ohio - Medina Police Chief Patrick Berarducci will retire from his position this week, Mayor Dennis Hanwell told cleveland.com Sunday.

Medina Police Chief Patrick Berarducci

The chief emailed the mayor Sunday morning "indicating his intention to resign effective Wednesday," Hanwell said. Berarducci has been on medical leave since November 2016, the Medina Gazette reports.

Medina police Lt. Dave Birckbichler will continue to serve at the Acting Police Chief until the position is filled, Hanwell said.

"We will have a formal process of testing interested and eligible candidates," for the job, Hanwell said.

Berarducci was named police chief in July 2009. He replaced Hanwell, who resigned from the position to run for mayor.

Before he served as the Medina police chief, Berarducci worked as the chief of Boardman's police department. He began his law enforcement career in Youngstown in 1974.

Berarducci served as an agent with the Justice Department's Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for nearly 30 years. During that role, he notably worked on the media relations team during the Oklahoma City bombing investigation and was the ATF team leader during Super Bowl XLI in Miami in 2007.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.
NEWARK, Ohio - An Amber Alert issued Sunday evening for a missing 1-year-old girl was canceled after her father who took her was found, police said.

Matthew R. Trent, 27, was found in Licking County, the Newark police department wrote on its Twitter page.

Trent located in Licking County https://t.co/aGfU46DREV  Newark Police PIO (@NewarkPD_OH_PIO) June 18, 2017

Trent is accused of taking his daughter about 5 p.m. while she was being watched by her sister, according to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. The girl was found safe about 7 p.m. in the custody of a relative, the Newark Advocate reports.

No further information about the girl's recovery was immediately released.

If you'd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A 41-year-old man who set up a drug robbery that turned deadly was sentenced on Monday to 11 years in prison.

Stephen Menter's mother shook and wept as she turned to Christopher Hill, the man convicted of playing a role in the killing that left her 7-year-old grandson without a father.

"Chris, you stole my sunshine," Amy Menter said.

Judge Deena Calabrese imposed the maximum sentence that Menter faced after a jury convicted him of involuntary manslaughter in Menter's Aug. 16 killing on Tarkington Avenue.

Deon Bulger, the accused gunman who prosecutors say is known as an enforcer for the Heartless Felons, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder and is awaiting trial.

A jury found that Hill and Bulger set up Menter for a robbery by calling him and asking to buy drugs on Aug. 10, prosecutors said.

Hill and Menter agreed to meet at a home on Tarkington Avenue that Menter thought was vacant, court records say. Menter drove to the house with his two brothers, ages 23 and 20, and a 22-year-old, according to police reports. The group was getting ready to leave town to watch a friend's band play in another city, prosecutors say.

Hill never went to the scene.

Menter parked in the driveway, and Bulger walked up to Menter's car, prosecutors said.

Bulger pointed a gun at the group and told them to give them everything they had, court records say.

Menter tried to drive away but Bulger fired several gunshots at his car, police said. Several bullets struck Menter in the arm and the body. He died about at MetroHealth Medical Center.

Both Hill and Menter have young children who have been devastated by the case, family members said at Monday's hearing.

Menter's son has yet to grasp the gravity of his father's death and is in counseling, Menter's mother said.

Hill's mother told Calabrese that she has found his young son crying in the shower since Hill's arrest.

"It's really the children that are suffering here," Calabrese said.

To comment on this story, please visit Monday's crime and courts comments page.
U.S. President Donald Trump is sending two top aides to Jerusalem and Ramallah this week to discuss potential next steps in his bid to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, a White House official said on Sunday.

Going on the trip will be White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law and husband of his daughter Ivanka Trump, and Jason Greenblatt, a top national security aide.

Greenblatt will arrive in the region on Monday and Kushner on Wednesday.

The talks follow Trump's discussions last month with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Behind-the-scenes conversations have been taking place since the Trump trip, the White House official said.

"Excited to be traveling back to Israel and the Pal. Territories to continue the discussion about the possibility of peace", Greenblatt tweeted on Sunday night.

Kushner and Greenblatt will have meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah to hear directly from the Israeli and Palestinian leadership "about their priorities and potential next steps," the official said.

"President Trump has made it clear that working towards achieving a lasting peace agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians is a top priority for him. He strongly believes that peace is possible," the official said.

Kushner and Greenblatt are working with Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and White House national security adviser H.R. McMaster on the Middle East issue.

"It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr. Kushner and Mr. Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington D.C. or other locations as they pursue substantive talks," the official said.
Manila's ongoing battle with extremists in the southern Philippine city of Marawi is related to President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs, the country's finance chief said.

"This particular group that we are going after is actually in the drug trade," Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez told CNBC over the weekend, referring to the homegrown terror cell known as the Maute group.

In late May, fighters from Maute as well as local network Abu Sayyaf took control of Marawi  a Muslim-majority city with a population of 200,000 located on the island of Mindanao  and more than 300 are believed to be dead as Philippine troops try to retake the city, according to local media.

Both Maute and Abu Sayyef are allied to Islamic State, or ISIS, and the siege erupted following Manila's unsuccessful attempt to capture Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf leader who is known as ISIS' Southeast Asia emir.

U.S. special forces are currently on the ground in Marawi but their role is limited to assisting with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations, not fighting, a Philippine military official told Reuters. Mindanao, a longtime stronghold of Abu Sayyaf and other Muslim separatists, is now under martial law, adding to fears of growing ISIS influence in Southeast Asia.

Duterte's anti-terror offensive has shifted the spotlight from his controversial anti-drug campaign that has dominated headlines since he entered office nearly a year ago, but Dominguez insisted that both matters were intertwined.
The logo for the China Minsheng Banking is displayed atop their building in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.

The head of Hong Kong-listed China Minsheng Banking said it had lent Anbang Insurance Group only US$100 million, brushing aside speculation about a loan of up to 100 billion yuan (US$15 billion) to the insurance and financial giant, mainland media reported.

The remarks by the bank board chairman, Hong Qi, came after reports that Anbang chairman Wu Xiaohui had been detained for investigation.

Hong told a shareholders' meeting that the loans were secure and that the bank's operations had not been affected by the controversy surrounding the insurance group, financial magazine Caixin reported on Sunday.

More from the South China Morning Post:

Chinese banks told to stop business dealings with troubled insurer Anbang, source says

Detention of Anbang boss a milestone in financial industry crackdown, analysts say

MSCI might say 'yes' this time, but does China care any more?

Hong was quoted by the magazine as saying that the loan to Anbang was for US$100 million, and that it had been guaranteed with collateral.

"It is precisely because Anbang is a major shareholder that our controls are stricter and we strictly disclose related-party transactions," he said in the report.

Caixin reported last Tuesday that the high-flying Wu, who married the granddaughter of late paramount leader Deng Xiaoping, had been taken away for investigation.

Anbang said the following day that its chairman was "unable to perform his duties for personal reasons", giving no details. Wu's whereabouts are still unknown.

Anbang has been increasing its stake in Minsheng Bank since 2014.

Speculation has been rife that Wu was detained over a 100 billion yuan loan from Minsheng.

"What has happened to Anbang has not had that much of an impact on us," Caixin cited Hong as saying.

"The share ownership of Minsheng is dispersed. Although [Anbang] is its biggest shareholder, it is truly nothing more than a financial investor to us.

"The China Banking Regulatory Commission has not yet approved the relevant board membership [recommended by Anbang]."

The Caixin report added that Hong had said Minsheng would continue selling Anbang's insurance products.

Anbang was a low-profile insurer when Wu founded it in 2004. But as one of the most politically connected billionaires in China, Wu has managed to make it the third-largest insurance group on the mainland, with assets worth as much as 1.65 trillion yuan.
Investors in the week ahead just might get a break from the staggering news cycle that has dominated in June. There's only a smattering of economic data on the calendar, with the one big piece of market news likely to come from banks. Still, savvy investors will be keeping their eyes open for a few key developments on tap.

Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange as Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen announces the Fed's decision to raise interest rates on June 14, 2017. Getty Images

About those interest rates...

The Federal Reserve provided the most drama for the markets last week when it raised rates, as expected, but did so with a dose of optimism about the economy and with more details on how it will unwind those big stimulus programs it put in place during the crisis. This week we should get to hear some of the central bank's officials explain why they did what they did. Monday features New York Fed President Bill Dudley leading a business roundtable in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia's Charles Evans speaking in New York; Robert Kaplan of Dallas talks Tuesday in San Francisco; Gov. Jerome Powell speaks to the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday; and Jim Bullard of St. Louis, Loretta Mester of Cleveland and Powell are on tap Friday. Not all will be policy speeches, but any could move markets.

Testing the banks

The Federal Reserve will also deliver a report on the health of 34 of the nation's biggest banks this week. The results of the stress tests, as they're called, are due out after the market closes on Thursday. Why you should care: There are a couple reasons these tests are important to the typical investor. First, we'll get a further picture into how stable the financial system is eight years after the end of the financial crisis. These tests were designed to see if the banks could handle the "stress" of a crisis of that magnitude. Second, we could get some visibility on how much capital banks will be able to return to investors (i.e., dividends). The full release on how much capital banks can return is expected to be released on June 28.

Construction workers build a single-family home in San Diego. Mike Blake | Reuters

Two key reports on housing

Two big economic reports are due out this week and they're both about the housing market. Existing home sales numbers come out on Wednesday, and Friday will feature new homes sales data. Housing has been one of the weakest parts of the economy as of late, and if that doesn't turn around soon, it could put a damper on second-half growth.

For the political junkies

With President Donald Trump's approval ratings tumbling, according to most surveys, a few special elections could foretell what type of fate he'll face during next year's midterms. Georgia and South Carolina have critical congressional races, with two seats vacated by members who took Cabinet positions. In Georgia, Democrat Jon Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel are up for the 6th Congressional District seat left vacant when U.S. Rep. Tom Price let to become Trump's Health and Human services secretary. The race is a seen as a proxy for national sentiment. In South Carolina, Republican Ralph Norman and Democrat Archie Parnell are battling for the 5th Congressional District seat left vacant when U.S. Rep. Mick Mulvaney resigned to become Trump's budget director. Parnell leads in the polls, but the race has been tightening.

The last word
Proposals to slash the U.S. corporate tax rate to 15 percent from the current 39.6 percent would hamstring the government according to the chief of financial services giant Raymond James.

"Everyone agrees there needs to be some corporate tax rate cut and individual restructuring but 15 percent doesn't leave enough I think to pay for the operation of government," opined Paul Reilly, chief executive officer (CEO) and chairman of the financial services group which in the past year has edged its way into both Fortune 500's list of largest U.S. corporations and the S&P 500 equity index.

Indeed, the excitement with which the U.S. and global equity markets have greeted expectations of both tax cuts and deregulation under a Trump administration is now being tempered, in Reilly's view. The S&P 500 index has shot up by nearly 14 percent since the election of President Trump in early November with the MSCI World Index almost 6 percent higher over the period.

"Everyone talked about the deregulation of financials and certain stocks that are really subject to deregulation get really impacted by every announcement. Not really much has happened," he observed, speaking on CNBC's Street Signs on Monday.

"They talked about taking out the DOL (Department of Labor) rule that was just put into effect - but it happened. So I think the markets have pulled back saying 'is deregulation really coming'?" Reilly added.
On June 8, Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba drew "gasps of wow" from investors as it presented forecasted sales growth of 45 to 49 percent this year, 10 percentage points ahead of analysts' expectations.

And today, Chris Tung, its chief marketing officer, told an audience of advertising and media executives  not CFOs  that it sold an enormous $550 billion of merchandise in the last fiscal year, and served more than 500 million Chinese consumers alone.

Tung claimed that the business is the largest retailer in the world, ahead of Walmart, and prefers to be known as a marketplace connecting sellers and buyers, rather than simply an e-commerce platform. Often called the "Amazon of China," he added that it's different from the U.S. company, because it doesn't own or sell products.

He explained to an audience at the Cannes Lions advertising festival, that local Chinese brands, ecommerce and mobile are the driving forces behind its increasing sales.
Jeff Bezos just drove a tank into the middle of the food fight going on between Wal-Mart and the packaged goods industry.

Amazon's $13.7 billion deal to purchase Whole Foods is expected to be disruptive for grocers and other retailers, but it couldn't come at a worse time for big brand food companies, already hurt by the heavy hand of Wal-Mart's discount pricing and the expansion of online shopping.

Now with Amazon jumping into the grocery business with a more than 400-location retailer, the price slashing  and competition from private labels  can only intensify. As consumers also look for fresher foods and more organic and natural offerings, shelf space in the supermarket center aisles, long dominated by big brands like Kellogg , Kraft Heinz and Campbell Soup  is also simply shrinking.

The Amazon merger is just another blow that reinforces these trends.

"I would say it's the smaller brands that are going to be most affected. Conagra and the midtier companies are probably going to be the most hurt. There's probably a lot of independent brands that are owned privately around the country that have the least pricing power and will be hit hard by this," said Bernstein analyst Alexia Howard. It's not good news "for the cereal companies, but it's generally not good news for packaged companies."

Howard covers companies, like General Mills , Kraft Heinz, McCormick , Dean Foods, Mondelez, Hershey's and Kellogg, and she turned more negative on the sector in March.

She said Wal-Mart is not only fighting it out with Amazon online, but it is facing new competition from German retailers Lidl and Aldi. Lidl is a deep discounter and just opened its first stores in the U.S., while Aldi is expanding its presence. Analysts say Wal-Mart is expected to expand in private label and fresh food offerings.
Economic optimism in the United States is surging, according to the latest CNBC All-America Economic Survey, with several key components hitting all-time highs, but it's not helping the president.

The CNBC survey of 800 Americans across the country finds that 30 percent of the public are optimistic about the economy now and for the future, the first time the percentage has been that high in two consecutive quarters during the survey's 10-year history.

The 54 percent of Americans who think their home prices will rise in the next year represents a record and the 44 percent who believe their wages will go up in the next year is the second highest in a decade. There's similar optimism around stocks, where 44 percent of Americans believe this is a good time to invest, a level only eclipsed by last quarter's record.

"Attitudes about [President Donald] Trump's economy at this point, remain consistent, positive and strong,'' said Micah Roberts, the Republican pollster for CNBC with Public Opinion Strategies. Jay Campbell from Hart Research was the Democratic pollster. The poll was conducted June 9-12 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.

The positive economic attitudes aren't doing much to help the president's approval rating, which has fallen to 37 percent in the current survey from 39 percent in April. His approval on the economy has also fallen to just 41 percent from 44 percent in April. And there has been a rise in pessimism, driven by groups such as retirees, blue collar workers and independents, including some core Trump supporters.

Showing the split in the public over the impact of Trump, a quarter in the poll said the economy is getting better because of the president's policies. Meanwhile, 22 percent said his policies are making the economy worse.

Some of Trump's signature economic policies remain popular, but they have taken a hit from the prior poll. The majority still approves of Trump's plans to cut individual taxes, 59 percent to 30 percent, but that 29 point gap is 13 points smaller than in April. The president has majority support for his plans to cut business taxes, renegotiate trade deals and rebuild the nation's infrastructure, but the margin of support has slimmed in each case.

And, as in previous surveys, his immigration, climate change and health-care policies are opposed by a plurality of Americans.

Looking at specific policies, 53 percent support privatizing infrastructure to expand highways and airports, while 33 percent opposed. But when asked specifically about Trump's plans to privatize the FAA, the numbers flip, with 53 percent opposing and 33 percent in favor.

The president's decision to leave the Paris climate accord is opposed by 57 percent in the poll. And 80 percent think it's appropriate for U.S. companies to continue to try to meet the accord's goals despite the U.S. plans to pull out. And 72 percent say it will be effective for companies to do it alone without the Federal government.
In an era where female leadership continues to be brought back to the table for discussion, it's important for any woman looking to lead, to find their own sense of style and identity  that's according to a pioneering female executive who's worked for the likes of Hillary Clinton and currently heads up a leading U.S. think tank.

It's safe to say that taking on the role of being a leader is no easy task, but someone's got to do it.

President and CEO of New America Anne-Marie Slaughter speaks onstage during Fortune's Most Powerful Women Summit - Day 3 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel on October 14, 2015 in Washington, DC

"I would say for women specifically, it's critically important to figure out your style," Anne-Marie Slaughter, president and CEO of New America, told CNBC's 'Life Hacks Live' at the Viva Technology conference in Paris.

"(When) you look at a man, you look at the way he leads and there are things you can learn: how to project in public speaking, how to be assertive, how to have a presence."

"But you also have to know who you are. And if you're friendly, or if you simply don't like being abrasive  find your own style, because you can't lead in someone else's clothes. And women often do have a different style than men."

Anne-Marie Slaughter is probably best known for her ground-breaking opinion-piece published in The Atlantic in 2012, titled "Why Women Still Can't Have It All", where Slaughter draws upon her own struggles of working in a high-powered career whilst raising two sons, in order to tackle the topic of gender equality and work-life balance. However she's acted as a strong leader in other places too.

At present, Slaughter is the CEO and president of New America, a think tank devoted to renewing American politics, prosperity, and purpose in the digital age, and has also worked as the Director of Policy Planning from 2009 to 2011 for the U.S. State Department, where Hillary Clinton was her boss, who was the U.S. Secretary of State at the time.

In addition, Slaughter has written a number of books and publications, as well as having taken on top roles at both Harvard Law School and Princeton. So it's fair to say, Slaughter has had her fair share of working in a leadership role.
Apple is working on a secret plan to turn the iPhone into a personal hub for all your medical information, CNBC reported last week.

But it isn't doing it alone. The company's health team has been working with a tiny start-up called Health Gorilla, according to two people familiar with the initiative.

Sources said that Health Gorilla is specifically working with Apple to add diagnostic data to the iPhone, including blood work, by integrating with hospitals, lab-testing companies such as Quest and LabCorp and imaging centers.

The start-up, which has raised just shy of $5 million in funding, specializes in giving doctors a "complete picture of patient health history," according to its website. CEO Steve Yaskin founded the company after a doctor friend of his was frustrated with the process of transferring patients' diagnostic test results in their practice, according to a blog post from Health Gorilla investor True Ventures.

It is primarily geared to physicians and serves as a marketplace for them to place orders and share medical records. But it also has a free offering for patients, which promises to gather up medical information in 10 minutes.

Both Apple and Health Gorilla's Yaskin declined to comment on the partnership.

Apple is looking to solve a big problem that has plagued the medical sector for decades.

Hospitals often struggle to access vital data about their patients at the point of care, which is spread among third-party labs, primary care groups and specialists. And those knowledge gaps can often lead to missed diagnoses or unnecessary medical errors, numerous studies have found.

Sources told CNBC that Apple is attempting to solve this "interoperability" problem by making the patient the center of their own care. The goal is to give iPhone users the tools to review, store and share their own medical information, including lab results, allergy lists and so on. That's a deviation in strategy from Apple's current health efforts, which have focused on aggregating fitness information like the number of steps taken during the day or hours of sleep.

Apple isn't the first technology giant to jump into the personal health record space: Microsoft has a portal called Health Vault, while Google had a project called Google Health which shut down in 2011.

Watch: Apple leads Dow
"Tech leaders should take advantage of their time at the White House to suggest a few sensible high-skilled immigration policy solutions to the administration."

Meanwhile, high-skilled U.S. jobs that foreign-born workers could fill persistently go vacant. According to one economic index, the fields that will be most impacted by ongoing shortages are health, skilled trade labor, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). Just the shortages in STEM alone should keep tech CEOs up at night. Their companies experience firsthand the challenges in finding qualified workers in this field.

For example, take information security analysts: the sensitive nature of their work prevents these jobs from being outsourced to other countries. And forecasts project mathematical and statistical occupations, such as data scientists, to experience faster demand growth over the near term.

There is sensitivity, of course, around whether immigrants take jobs away from American citizens. Research indicates that immigrants can help create more net jobs by filling positions that remain unfilled. A study from the Niskanen Center, for example, indicates that nearly two jobs overall are created in industries associated with computers and engineering with the entrance of every one immigrant with a high-skilled work visa in those industries.

Tech leaders should take advantage of their time at the White House to suggest a few sensible high-skilled immigration policy solutions to the administration. First, annual per-country caps on permanent, employment-based visas should be removed. Employment-based visas should be based on skills, not nationality.

These visas are currently rationed to a fixed number per country of origin, regardless of the number and skill set/occupational mix of that country's applicants. This means we are limiting our ability to bring in STEM (and other) talent we need, simply because it is concentrated in certain parts of the world, such as India. This doesn't make economic  or common  sense.

Second, educational attainment should no longer be the dominant criterion to determine employment-based visas. Though important, educational attainment represents just one aspect of the equation for employment qualification. As the twin forces of global competition and technological progress only intensify, actual skill sets matter more than degrees.

Finally, state and locally administered employment-based visas should be created under any immigration reform proposal. Governors and mayors have a considerably more relevant perspective on the needs of their labor markets than the federal government, yet they have no input or control under current immigration law.

Empowering states and localities to influence immigration policy has worked well in Canada; it is a decentralized approach with aspects that merit consideration by the U.S.

All eyes will be on the interpersonal dynamics of "tech week." Participating tech leaders would be wise to refrain from indulging the media with stories of conflict and instead fill the days and available airwaves with substantive discussions around issues impacting our economy. Immigration is not an easy topic, but if the right reforms come into place, it will generate immense prosperity and innovation for the national good.

Commentary by Steve Odland, CEO of the Committee for Economic Development (CED) and former CEO of Office Depot and AutoZone. Read CED's new immigration report here.

For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion onTwitter.
The is on pace to have its best single day of trading since late February.

The fund, which tracks stocks in the S&P Biotechnology Select Industry Index, is up 4 percent on Monday, boosted by shares surging 46 percent after the company reported positive cancer drug data.

Clovis is trading at its highest levels since November 2015 and is on pace for its best day since June 2013, when it rose nearly 104 percent in a single day. The Boulder, Colorado-based biopharma said data on its ovarian cancer drug shows treatment could benefit four times as many patients as expected. The approved drug, Rubraca, is intended to keep patients free of cancer after they go into remission.

Only nine of the 92 stocks within the ETF are not trading upward, with many rising 3 percent or more.

The ETF last gained this much when it jumped 5 percent on February 27th.
It sounds like pure fantasy.

Boeing sees the day coming when you board a plane in New York and land two hours later in Shanghai, China.

"I think in the next decade or two you're going to see them become a reality," said Boeing Chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg.

Boeing expects hypersonic jets, flying at up to Mach 5, or 3,800 mph, could serve a small but important market of travelers willing to pay a premium to reach far-flung destinations in a fraction of the time it usually takes.

For example, a commercial flight from New York to Shanghai currently takes about 15 hours.

On paper it sounds great. In reality, the costs of operating a hypersonic commercial airplane means it may never get off the ground.

"It's hard for me to see, at least in the next 15-20 years, that it's going to be so cost competitive that it's going to compel the airlines to take a stab at it," said John Plueger, president and CEO of AirLease Corp.
After the demise of the Concorde supersonic jet in 2003, flight times have stayed relatively constant  but Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Technology, says air travel could get a speed boost in just a few years.

Scholl says passengers could be traveling on his company's supersonic planes within the next decade. "We're flying our first prototype end of next year. This is not something that's science fiction or decades off, this is something happening very quickly," Scholl said Monday on CNBC's "Squawk Alley."

"We're looking at passengers in the early 2020s. That flight from San Francisco to Tokyo that takes 11 hours today shrinks to less than five and a half."
Jack Taylor | Getty Images

Britain's Brexit Secretary David Davis has detailed his hopes for a "strong and special partnership" with the EU as Brexit negotiations officially commenced on Monday, a year on from the U.K.'s shock referendum result. In a statement which closely echoed U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May's "strong and stable" election tagline, Davis, who is in Brussels to meet with his EU counterpart Michel Barnier, said he was entering discussions in a "positive and constructive" manner. He added that he aims to retain close ties with Britain's "allies and friends" in Europe. Davis and Barnier are expected to begin talks on Monday by outlining their priorities for Britain's departure from the EU and a timetable for discussions. This timetable is expected to follow the EU's "preferred pattern", which will focus on exit negotiations first and any future relationship later, according to EU sources cited by the BBC. Barnier said on Monday that the negotiations must first tackle "the uncertainties caused by Brexit."

Michel Barnier during a news conference after a meeting of EU finance ministers at the European Council headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. Jasper Juinen | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Key priorities are set to include the status of expats, the U.K.'s "exit bill"  the cash settlement expected by the EU  and the border between Northern Ireland and continued EU member the Republic of Ireland. The U.K. had initially hoped to simultaneously negotiate its departure from the EU while establishing new ties with the union. More recently, however, it appears to have renegaded on these aims, with Prime Minister Theresa May insisting that Britain should be willing to relinquish any partnership with the EU if a suitable deal cannot be struck within the two-year negotiating time frame. May has remained fervently in favor of a so-called hard Brexit, but has faced heavy resistance from opponents in parliament. In April she called a snap general election in a bid to increase her parliamentary majority and give her a mandate to drive ahead with her Brexit plans. However, on June 6 she failed to secure a majority and is currently in talks with the small Northern Irish Democrat Unionist Party (DUP) to form a parliamentary alliance.

Prime Minister Theresa May looks on at the Magnet Leisure Centre in Maidenhead, after she held her seat Stefan Rousseau | PA Images | Getty Images

Though May's gamble will have done little to strengthen the U.K.'s position in EU talks, analysts suspect it will do little to change its intended Brexit agenda. "The elections were terrible for May but I don't think the fundamental dynamics of the Brexit negotiations will change because of that," Stefan Auer, associate professor in European Studies at the University of Hong Kong, told CNBC on Monday. "The only possibility of a soft Brexit is if the EU itself fundamentally changes, if the EU allows member states to reclaim more control over their destiny, which is something I've advocated for many years." German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is considered one of the driving forces behind the EU, said on Monday that she hoped negotiations would secure a "good agreement" for both parties but reiterated the unity of remaining member states. "For me, it is above all about the EU27 proceeding together and listening carefully to Britain's wishes and expectations," Merkel said after meeting Romanian President Klaus Iohannis.

watch now
Investors are not looking closely enough at the compelling investment opportunities that China's inverted yield curve is throwing up, says UBS' chief regional fixed income manager.

Tight liquidity and an ongoing regulatory clampdown has pushed China's 10-year bonds to now yield less than its 5-year bonds, in a state of affairs known as yield curve inversion.

It is the first time ever this phenomenon has occurred at these specific maturities and signals that a slowdown for the Chinese economy is coming, according to Hayden Briscoe, Head of Fixed Income APAC at UBS Asset Management, speaking on CNBC's Squawk Box on Monday.

"This looks like a really nice opportunity in the second half of the year to be layering in long 10 year Chinese bonds into your portfolio," recommended Briscoe, adding that long bonds have recently suffered a liquidity squeeze-induced sell-off.

With regards to China's impending slowdown, the fixed income chief cautions that investors shouldn't be primarily worried about the effect on the country itself.

"The impact of China slowing will be more felt in rest of world rather than inside China as they've still got the tools and flexibility to deal with any extreme slowdown," he asserted, noting that Chinese authorities are now resolutely focused on addressing the country's rising debt levels which has seen national debt as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) soar from 152 percent in 2007 to 257 percent at the end of last year.
"Virtually none" of the government is on the cloud, Liddell told CNBC's " Squawk on the Street " on Monday. "It's tiny, very small compared to the private sector, and that's one of the real opportunities."

Only 3 to 4 percent of government operations are on the cloud, creating costs that are "orders of magnitude" higher than the private sector, according to Chris Liddell , director of strategic initiatives for President Donald Trump's administration.

White House Director of Strategic Initiatives Chris Liddell (L) talks with White House Director of the National Economic Council Gary Cohn before a meeting with small business people in the Roosevelt Room at the White House January 30, 2017 in Washington, DC.

"We are really going to try to push as hard as we can. You'd be blown away by some of the statistics," Liddell said. "We have something like 6,000 data centers across the government. We spend $86 billion a year, and that probably understates the figure, on IT. ... Those are orders of magnitude higher than anything you would see in the private sector. So there's a massive economic opportunity here."

He also noted that moving more government services to the cloud could help with cybersecurity.

Technology executives from Apple , Amazon , Oracle and other American companies are expected to gather at the White House on Monday in a summit aimed at modernizing the government. Liddell, who helped steer Microsoft through a difficult transition during the financial crisis as the company's chief financial officer, said about 90 percent of those invited will be in attendance, a higher turnout than average.

Ultimately, the government, not the private sector, will be responsible for delivering on the recommendations that come out of Monday's summit, Liddell said. But many of the companies, such as Amazon, are considered top cloud services providers.

"We have 3.5 trillion dollars of market value arriving today," Liddell said. "Having those people and the power of their ideas  and the power of, hopefully, some of their people over the next few months and years  we think we can really accelerate what we're doing."

Liddell said part of the goal at the White House is to inspire a dedicated "government tech" industry in the private sector.

"We're 10 to 20 years behind, so we're not going to solve this today," he said.
Renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement could spill into next year, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Monday.

Ross told reporters that the Trump administration would finish the talks in 2017 in an "ideal world." That timeline "would be a record speed for any big trade negotiation," he said.

"So, I don't know whether we'll be able to do that," he said at the SelectUSA Investment Summit. "But we're certainly mindful of the calendar and the fact that the calendar is fundamentally not our friend."

Last month, the Trump administration sent a letter notifying lawmakers it wanted to renegotiate NAFTA, the three-nation deal with Mexico and Canada that President Donald Trump has repeatedly derided as obsolete and damaging to American workers. The U.S. can start talks 90 days after that notification.

Ross noted that he sees "plenty of reasons" to renegotiate NAFTA this year. Mexico has a general election in July 2018, while the U.S. holds midterms elections a few months later.

Trade Promotion Authority  the congressional framework for renegotiating trade deals  also expires next year.
Online food takeaway company Delivery Hero priced its initial public offering (IPO) on Monday which could raise it as much as 995.6 million euros ($1.1 billion).

The German firm set the price range at 22 euros to 25.50 euros per share and is expected to begin trading on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange on June 30.

Delivery Hero's offering will consist of 18,950,000 new ordinary registered shares and of 15,000,000 existing ordinary registered shares from the holdings of certain current shareholders. Investors may also have access to another 5,092,500 "over-allotment" shares.

At the mid-point of the price range, gross proceeds from the offering of newly issued shares would amount to approximately 450 million euros. But assuming full placement of all offered shares at the upper end of the price range, including the over-allotment shares, the total size of the IPO would amount to around 995.6 million euros.

Delivery Hero will use the funds to repay loans and to finance the growth and development of its business, it said.
The pressure is growing to force President Trump to turn over his tax returns. The other day, for example, 200 Congressmen filed a suit in federal court, arguing that voters and lawmakers have a right to know whether Trump's businesses are violating the Constitution's emolument clause, which bars the president from accepting payments from foreign countries.

The lead Senate plaintiff in the suit, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), said that the legal effort could force release of the president's tax returns and other business documents during the discovery stage of the litigation.

"By failing to release his tax returns  reflecting payments and benefits from foreign powers  President Trump is thumbing his nose at the American people and the Constitution," Blumenthal told my Washington Post colleague Tom Hamburger. "He is violating the Constitution by accepting foreign government payments and benefits without consent from Congress  which can't consent to what it doesn't know."

But Trump hasn't filed a tax return for 2017, which is the year he became president and the emolument clause began to apply to him. So even if we got his earlier returns, we wouldn't know what he's done since taking office Jan. 20.

As for the argument that seeing his returns would expose Russian connections, should they exist: I've written before, his old tax returns, should they ever see the light of day, are unlikely to tell us much about any possible personal foreign entanglements.

Those might show up, if they exist, in the filings of the hundreds of companies that make up the Trump empire. But Trump's personal returns are unlikely to show them.

But seeing his old returns would tell us something especially relevant about a president who wants to radically reshape our tax code.

It would show us how much and in what ways Trump has personally benefited from the legal loopholes scattered throughout the current system. And what impact the changes he's proposing would have on him personally.

Trump's tax returns would also let us see, I suspect, that a good part of the tax payments that showed up on Trump's leaked partial 2005 federal return was refunded to him in later years.

When the first two pages of that return became public in March, he and his backers took victory laps because the return showed him paying $36.5 million of income tax and having made about $153 million during the year.

Among the boasters was Donald Trump Jr., who tweeted about his father's 2005 payments at least three times and at a May campaign rally in Montana told a heckler that his father's 2005 return shows that, "You can do it all. You can be successful [and] you can pay your taxes."

However, for reasons I'll get to in a bit, I think there's a very good chance that Trump got a major portion of his 2005 tax refunded to him in 2006 and later. If I'm right, it means that a good part of the 2005 payments that Trump and Trump Jr. and other Trump types boasted about amounted to temporary loans to the Treasury. Not tax payments as we normally think of them.

If so, that would be yet another example of how Trump has gotten a free ride  okay, in this case a reduced-fare ride  on his income taxes.

Getting refunds like the ones I think Trump got is perfectly legal. But for us to see the 2005 tax payments but not any subsequent refunds leaves us with a misleading picture.

Should these refunds exist  I think they do, but I can't prove it  they would show up on post-2005 tax returns that we haven't seen and that Trump refuses to disclose.

Seeing if he got refunds on his 2005 taxes is yet another good reason for us to want to see Trump's returns, which presidents and presidential candidates had been providing since the days of Richard Nixon.

We'd find out about possible refunds of Trump's 2005 taxes by looking at the "Other Credits" line on the second page of those returns and seeing if he took any credits on IRS Form 8801.

I emailed both Trump's tax attorney and the White House several weeks ago asking them to respond to my theory about Trump having gotten refunds in subsequent years. The law firm to which Trump tax attorney Shari Dillon belongs sent a quick and courteous "no comment" response. My email to Trump spokeswoman Hope Hicks went unanswered.

So I'm relying on my own analysis, which is based on information and guidance that I got from about half a dozen tax experts, some of whom I've worked with for decades in the course of writing about taxes. Some of the experts I consulted for this column are tax practitioners, some are theoreticians. Their political preferences range from pro-Trump to socialist.

Okay. Now, here we go.

If you look at Trump's partial 2005 return, which made its way to veteran tax journalist David Cay Johnson (with whom I worked at The Detroit Free Press in the 1970s), who gave it to "The Rachel Maddow Show" and put it into the public domain, you see three telling things.

First, you see the words "Client Copy" on the second page, which raises the possibility that the partial return was sent by someone in Trump's camp with access to Trump documents. Because it puts Trump in a good light, this wouldn't shock me.

Second, you see that most of the income tax Trump paid  $31.6 million out of $36.5 million  arose from what he owed as a result of the alternative minimum tax, a provision of the tax code intended to make sure high-income people pay at least some taxes.

Third, you see that Trump used $103.2 million of losses from previous years to reduce his taxable 2005 income. Those losses were lower than his total taxable income. This almost certainly means that he had no losses left to write off, because had more write-offs been available, Trump could have used them to lower his tax bill.

Now, let me try to make sense of all this for you.

The only other Trump tax filings that are public  partial 1995 New York, New Jersey and Connecticut state returns  show that back then, he had an astounding $915 million of losses that he could use in future years to offset income for federal, New York state and New York City income tax purposes.

The 2005 return indicates to me that Trump used up his losses in 2005  he showed $48.6 million of taxable income after subtracting the aforementioned $103.2 million of losses. I'm assuming that from 1996 through 2004, he wiped out his taxable income for federal, New York state and New York City purposes by using the $915 million in losses, which were generated by the collapse of his real estate-casino empire in the 1980s and 1990s, and were probably supplemented with paper losses generated by a special tax code provision that benefits real-estate professionals such as Trump.

Now, I'll give you a simplified version of why I think  but hasten to say, yet again, can't prove  that Trump recovered a good part of the $31.6 million of alternative minimum tax that he paid for 2005.

The AMT, as it's known, has become a plague to middle-income and upper-income types who live in states with high income and real-estate taxes. That's despite the fact that when Congress created the AMT in 1969, its goal was to stop a handful of rich people from avoiding income taxes all together. Over the years, however, Congress failed to modify the AMT sufficiently to keep it from ensnaring millions of middle- and upper-middle taxpayers.

It turns out there are two separate types of alternative minimum tax. Most people  including me  who pay AMT on top of their regular income tax do so because state and local income taxes and the real-estate taxes on our personal residences aren't deductible under the AMT the way they are for regular tax purposes. That leads to the AMT being higher than our regular tax, and the difference between AMT and regular tax gets added to what we owe Uncle Sam.

That kind of AMT payment  arising from what tax techies call an "exclusion preference"  isn't refundable.

But judging from Trump's tax return, it looks like the vast majority of the additional tax he paid as a result of the AMT arose from so-called "deferral preferences." And that most of the $103.2 million of losses he carried over from previous years were deductible for regular income tax purposes in 2005, but not for AMT purposes.

Under the tax laws, Trump can get refunds, over multiple years, up to the refundable portion of the 2005 AMT that he paid. Which was probably the vast majority of his AMT.

For instance, let's say that Trump had the same income in 2006 that he had in 2005, but didn't have the $103.2 million of losses from previous years.

Because the AMT is assessed at a 28 percent rate and the top regular rate in 2006 was 35 percent, Trump's regular income tax would probably have been $6.5 million to $7 million higher than his AMT would have been. This would have yielded him a $6.5 million to $7 million refund, with future refunds coming in future years when his regular tax was higher than his AMT.

To be sure, part of Trump's 2005 AMT probably comes from not being able to deduct real-estate taxes on his personal residences. That "exclusion preferences" part of his AMT wouldn't be refundable.

But the vast majority of Trump's AMT appears to be from "deferral preferences"  especially since it's unlikely that he paid any significant New York state or New York City income taxes from 1996 through 2004 because the losses he carried over from previous years would have been deductible for New York state and New York City purposes and would probably have wiped out all or virtually all of his New York income.

Given the size of the numbers we're dealing with, his personal real-estate taxes and any personal income taxes he might have paid outside of New York are probably rounding errors, at most.

So unless Trump started running up big losses post-2005, when his losses dating back to the 1990s were all used up, it looks like his regular income tax (at a 35 percent top rate in 2006 and 39.6 percent in recent years) would have exceeded his 28 percent alternative minimum tax.

This means that a good part of the AMT that he paid in 2005 would likely have flowed back to him as credits in subsequent years. Hence my conclusion that although Trump paid $36.5 million of federal income tax in 2005, his ultimate income tax cost for the year was considerably lower. That's the bottom line. Or at least, I think it is.
Elon Musk has had "promising conversations" with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti about his plans to build a tunnel network under the city, but acknowledged getting a permit for such a project is harder than creating the technology itself.

The billionaire Tesla CEO has a start-up called The Boring Company with the aim of finding a way to ease traffic. In December 2016, Musk tweeted that LA traffic was driving him "nuts".

So far, pictures have been released showing the digging equipment which Musk's firm will use to make the tunnels. And last month, the Boring Company released images of an electric mass transit system, which could potentially be developed. But so far, there have only been tests of the technology on private land.

Musk has yet to get permission to dig in the city, but according to a tweet on Sunday, conversations with the authorities are going well.

TWEET

Mayor Garcetti's office is yet to respond to a request for comment when contacted by CNBC.

But Garcetti did say that he was interested in Musk's technology in a recent interview with ABC.

"And like many other cities have, I'd love to see, maybe with the new tunneling technology people like Elon Musk is looking at whether we can have a quick and direct route from LAX to Union Station," Garcetti said.

Musk's idea, as suggested by his tweet, is that the tunnels would not only be suitable for cars, but also bikes and pedestrians too.
The plane maker's commercial arm specializes in aircraft that serve regional flights of distances typically less than 2000 nautical miles.

Among the debutants at the 52nd Paris Air Show is the Embraer E195-E2, the newest member of the Brazilian firm's family of regional jets.

John Slattery, president & CEO of commercial aviation for Embraer, said Sunday that it's the biggest plane Embraer has ever built and he expects airlines will recognize its value.

"It is very cheap to operate, it is very light and we believe airlines will be able to generate extra revenue and that's why we've called it the profit hunter.

"We've extended it by 3 rows and we've improved the range by 600 nautical miles to 2,600," he added.

Embraer's E195-E2 makes its first international appearance in Paris decked out in a Golden Eagle livery as the airline tries to hammer home the message of an efficient "profit hunter".

Hinting that deals could be imminent, Slattery told CNBC, that he expected the firm to add to its 70-strong existing customer base.

"We are going to introduce new customers to the Embraer E-jet family. There will be low cost carriers as well as traditional flag carriers, so we are broadening our operational franchise," Slattery said.

"We have a broad franchise footprint in continental Europe and North America which account for most of our business. We expect to see sales of about 6,500 units over the next 20 years," said Slattery.

The E2 family of aircraft are powered by Pratt & Whitney's PW-1900G, and use cockpit technology from Honeywell Aerospace. The E195-E2 which can be configured to 144 seats is expected to enter service in 2019.
Energy Secretary Rick Perry told CNBC on Monday he does not believe carbon dioxide emissions from human activity are the main driver of climate change, joining the EPA administrator in casting doubt on the conclusion of some of the government's top scientists.

Asked whether CO2 emissions are primarily responsible for climate change, Perry told CNBC's "Squawk Box": "No, most likely the primary control knob is the ocean waters and this environment that we live in."

"The fact is this shouldn't be a debate about, 'Is the climate changing, is man having an effect on it?' Yeah, we are. The question should be just how much, and what are the policy changes that we need to make to effect that?" he said.

In March, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt told "Squawk Box" he does not believe carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming.

Those statements contradict the public stance of the Environmental Protection Agency, at least until recently.
European bourses closed higher on Monday, as investors shifted their attention to political events across Europe and two unfolding terror attacks in London and Paris.

The pan-European STOXX 600 closed 0. 87 percent higher provisionally, with almost all sectors and major bourses finishing in positive territory.

Industrial, oil and gas, and basic material stocks led the gains in Europe on Monday. Among the top performers, Royal Philips jumped over 6.45 percent after hedge fund Third Pont was reported to have been buying shares of the Amsterdam-listed health care heavyweight.

Aberdeen Asset Management rose 5 percent in afternoon deals Monday after shareholders approved a proposed merger with Standard Life by a majority of 95.81 percent. Standard Life also rose 2.3 percent.

Credit Suisse shares closed up 3.42 percent on Monday. The Swiss bank found favor among analysts at Deutsche Bank , Morgan Stanley and Citi. Deutsche Bank upgraded Credit Suisse to a "buy" rating.

Ocado ended the day at the top of the benchmark, climbing more than 11 percent as the British online grocery company was considered the latest target of Amazon.com, which bid to purchase Whole Foods last week.



In Paris, the CAC 40 index notched its biggest rise in over six weeks on news French President Emmanuel Macron had strengthened his political position over the weekend. Macron won 350 of the 577 seats in the National Assembly on Sunday, with French shares climbing almost 1 percent.



Meanwhile, across the Atlantic U.S. markets were higher as technology stocks bounced back from series of losses last week. The Dow hit a new record high in early morning deals.
The official reason: scheduling conflicts. Sandberg is scheduled to speak at the Cannes Lions advertising industry conference this week in Cannes, France. Facebook did not explain Zuckerberg's conflict.

Among the CEOs of the five most-valuable U.S. companies by market worth, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg was alone in spurning the invitation. Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who attended a December meeting with President Trump, also did not attend.

was the one big tech company that declined to send executives to a meeting about technology with the Trump White House on Monday.

Facebook board member Peter Thiel was scheduled to attend the meeting of the newly-formed American Technology Council, led by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner.

In a statement preceding the meeting, Kushner said the U.S. must move beyond "floppy disks" and "Y2K."

Facebook execs have been critical of Trump on some fronts. In January, Sandberg criticized the administration's travel ban on citizens from several Mideast nations, saying that they "defy the heart and values that define the best of our nation." And Zuckerberg said in a June 1 post on Facebook that Trump's decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris climate accord "is bad for the environment, bad for the economy, and it puts our children's future at risk."

However, several of the other execs in attendance had similar criticisms, including Apple CEO Tim Cook, who said in an email to Apple employees that Trump's withdrawal from the Paris accord was "wrong for our planet," and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, who came out against the travel ban.

Here's a full list of all the tech execs scheduled to attend.
A "Death by Amazon" index tracked by a research firm had its worst day on record Friday following Amazon 's announcement that it's planning to acquire grocer Whole Foods and disrupt yet another industry. The selling continued on Monday.

As described by its creator, Bespoke Investment Group, the index tracks the performance of traditional retailers most affected by the transition from "bricks to clicks," in the way that consumers are purchasing goods.

The list of more than 30 names includes J.C. Penney , Macy's , Wal-Mart , Barnes & Noble , Best Buy and Kroger , among others.

What Bespoke has dubbed "Whole Foods Friday" rocked the retail index to a decline of more than 4 percent, marking its worst daily performance on record and dropping to its lowest level in more than three years. Notably, the overall market was up on Friday.

"Retail sales are coming online ... sucking share from traditional retailers," Paul Hickey, co-founder of Bespoke, told CNBC's "Power Lunch" Monday. "What we're seeing is people can shop other places, [but] choose to shop Amazon because it's most convenient."

As Amazon moves further into the turf of traditional retailers like Target and Walgreen, consumer preferences are also changing, with shoppers searching for experiences over goods, Hickey added.
Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez slammed President Donald Trump's new policy that tightens travel restrictions and prohibits American companies from conducting business with those owned by the Cuban military, NBC News reports.

Rodriguez reportedly told journalists on Monday in Vienna that "there will not be a presidential directive from the U.S. that will alter the direction of Cuba."

"We have gone through everything, our people have gone through everything," he said, according to NBC News. "What could they menace us with now that they haven't before and failed?"

Trump announced the policy changes Friday in Miami, vowing to "expose the crimes of the Castro regime" and support the Cuban people.

"For nearly six decades, the Cuban people have suffered under communist domination," Trump said in his announcement. "To this day, Cuba is ruled by the same people who killed tens of thousands of their own citizens, who sought to spread their repressive and failed ideology throughout our hemisphere, and who once tried to host enemy nuclear weapons 90 miles from our shores."

On Monday, Rodriguez criticized Trump's pledge, saying the "the massive and systematic harm to human rights comes from the blockade," and Trump himself has "based all his policies on things that are very distant from human rights," according to NBC News.

Human Rights Watch, however, told NBC News that the Cuban government has increasingly repressed dissent and criticism. Still, Daniel Wilkinson, managing director for the Americas at the organization, told NBC News in a statement that doesn't mean Trump should have reversed course on former president Barack Obama's policy.

"The fact that Obama's approach hasn't led to political reform in Cuba after just a few years isn't reason to return to a policy that proved a costly failure over many decades," Wilkinson said.

Read the full story on NBC News
Brexit negotiators from Britain and the EU began formal talks on the U.K.'s exit from the bloc on Monday, however, billionaire financier George Soros predicted that if all goes well, both parties could look to cancel divorce proceedings before too long.

"The fact is that Brexit is a lose-lose proposition, harmful both to Britain and the European Union. It cannot be undone, but people can change their minds," Soros wrote in The Mail on Sunday, a right-wing leaning tabloid newspaper in the U.K.

"The divorce process would take at least five years, and during that time new Elections would take place. If all went well, the two parties may want to remarry even before they have divorced," he added.

Speaking in Brussels on Monday, Britain's Brexit minister, David Davis, said he hoped the U.K. and Europe would be able to form a "new, deep and special partnership" as a result of formal negotiations. Davis added London sought to find a "positive and constructive tone" in the ongoing discussions.

Meantime, the EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier said his aim for Monday would be for Britain to agree to a format and timetable.
Goldman Sachs Chairman and CEO Lloyd Blankfein told CNBC on Monday he recently started tweeting as a more immediate way to comment on hot-button issues that impact banks.

"I commented on immigration, I commented on LGBT issues, I commented, obviously, on the environment more recently, spending on infrastructure," Blankfein told "Mad Money" host Jim Cramer on Monday. "It has to fall in, for my mind, in one of a couple of categories. Either it's something that's kind of in our wheelhouse of expertise. So I commented it would be very, very bad to let the U.S. government default  that's in our wheelhouse. Before Twitter, I did those things by press release. The other thing I'll comment on is when things really affect the ability of our people to be who they are and to do their job and to be effective as professionals."

In his first-ever tweet on June 1, Blankfein commented on President Donald Trump's decision to leave the Paris climate agreement:

"Today's decision is a setback for the environment and for the U.S.'s leadership position in the world. #ParisAgreement," the CEO wrote.

Since then, Blankfein tweeted about a recent trip to China, saying the United States needs to invest in infrastructure to "keep up" with China's progress,

https://twitter.com/lloydblankfein/status/872070162744307713

congratulated General Electric's outgoing CEO Jeff Immelt on his record,

https://twitter.com/lloydblankfein/status/874285194823569409

and promoted bipartisan political collaboration.

https://twitter.com/lloydblankfein/status/875385242386911232

Watch the full segment here:
Hedge fund billionaire John Paulson has joined the board of Valeant Pharmaceuticals.

Paulson became a director of the board last Wednesday, the company announced Monday.

"With his significant business and financial expertise, John will be a strong addition to the board," Valeant CEO Joseph Papa said in a statement. "His experience will be especially valuable as we continue to execute on our transformational strategy to turn around Valeant."



Paulson has made a handful of bad bets on drugmakers, including one on Valeant. That trade resulted in a nearly $2 billion loss for his firm.

Paulson's firm, Paulson & Co., had recorded nearly double-digit losses in several of its larger funds as of the end of March, The New York Times has reported.

"The strategic plan to transform Valeant smartly focuses on rebuilding the company's core franchises in ophthalmology, dermatology and gastroenterology while simultaneously using the proceeds from the sale of non-core assets and operating cash flow to de-lever the company," Paulson said Monday about his new partnership with the drugmaker.

"I am fully supportive of the strategy and leadership team at Valeant," he added.

According to Forbes, Paulson remains one of the hedge fund world's richest billionaires, but he doesn't boast as much money as he used to.

Paulson has seen his net worth drop by about $2 billion over the past year, to $7.9 billion, according to Forbes, having suffered through several wrong trades, which include bets on a Greek recovery and Puerto Rico.
The value of department store company Hudson's Bay comes down to its real estate holdings  and it needs to consider redeveloping those investments or going private, activist investor Jonathan Litt told CNBC on Monday.

Litt, whose firm Land & Buildings Investment Management owns 4.3 percent of Hudson's Bay , sent a letter to shareholders on Monday urging the company to explore those options.

"The company's valued its real estate at almost four times where the stock is trading," Litt said in an interview with "Closing Bell."

"What's remarkable and what's different about this company than any other department store company is they own the location at Fifth Avenue across from [Rockefeller] Center  probably one of the most valuable locations in the country," he added.

Hudson's Bay's real estate portfolio includes its Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store in New York, valued at $3.7 billion in 2014, and its Lord & Taylor flagship, valued at $655 million in 2016.

Hudson's Bay acknowledged it received the letter on Monday and said it will respond "in due course."

Litt said he's looking to be collaborative with the company in unlocking the real estate value.

"The next step really needs to be monetizing the real estate by redeveloping it or if they want to stay as a retailer, take it private," he told CNBC.

Shares of Hudson's Bay, located in Canada, popped on the news on Monday, closing up more than 15 percent.

 Reuters contributed to this report.
Stock markets are as calm as they've been in five decades, causing investors to crowd into funds that aim to minimize volatility. Goldman Sachs is questioning whether that is the right goal in such a calm market.

"Fund managers should seek to maximize prospective risk-adjusted returns rather than minimize realized volatility," said Goldman Sachs' chief U.S. equity strategist, David Kostin.

Put simply, investors are focusing too much on finding stocks that offer just low volatility and not enough on stocks that offer both low volatility and high returns.

Kostin has updated the bank's list of stocks that can maximize returns in a low-volatility market, removing tech giants Facebook and Alphabet and adding stocks including Autozone , Discover Financial Services , Dollar Tree , HP Inc . and Intel .

A widely watched number called the VIX, which is an options-based measure of how much it would cost to protect a stock portfolio from a market decline in the near future, remains near record lows. The S&P 500 volatility in the last six months ranked in the first percentile going back as far as 1966, according to Friday's research note. And the numbers looking ahead one month to five years suggest that the VIX will stay below its historical average, the bank said.
A stock market ticker displays financial information and world time zones in the lobby of the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) in Tel Aviv, Israel

Investors in Israel's high-tech sector have reacted with relief to a new ban on trading binary options to foreign clients that the government approved yesterday (June 18). The ban still has to be voted on in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and will then join the one that was approved last year on marketing such products to domestic customers.

"These people have been a plague on Israel's reputation," said one high-tech investor who asked to remain anonymous in order not to be associated with the binary options issue.

The trade in binary options has been linked with large-scale fraud, to the degree that the FBI in March issued a warning to investors. Apple earlier this year took steps to ban apps that offer the trade from its App Store. Many binary options firms that international clients have complained about are based in Israel, investigations by The Times of Israel and Reuters have shown.

The head of the Israel Securities Authority, Shmuel Hauser, acknowledged Israel's position in the often questionable trade in a comment on the ban: "Beyond the severe economic harm to citizens around the world, marketers of binary options are increasingly causing reputational damage and inflaming anti-Semitism towards Jews and Israelis."

As the country's chief regulator, Hauser recently likened the damage done by binary options to that inflicted by "blood diamonds".

One investor said that the ban was overdue but that at least, "It shows there's a sheriff awake in the Israeli compliance and regulations field."

Binary options are a win-or-lose, hence binary, bet on the movement of a stock, commodity or, often, a currency. Investors can put money on whether the asset will move up or down over a certain period, whether weeks or minutes. The latter especially, has been likened by regulators in several countries to gambling. If the stock or currency moves down, the investors lose all their money.
watch now

With the government still using floppy disks and checking for Y2K compliance, the private sector's creativity will help move the Trump administration past the turn of the century, presidential advisor Jared Kushner said Monday. Major technology executives met with Kushner to gather ideas for modernizing the government. Kushner, who is also President Donald Trump's son-in-law, helps lead the White House Office of American Innovation, which he said aims to bring "business sensibility" to the government. "We will unleash the creativity of the private sector to provide citizen services in a way that has never happened before," Kushner said.

Venture capitalist Peter Thiel of the Founders Fund and other technology executives and leaders attend the inaugural meeting of the American Technology Council in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next door to the White House June 19, 2017 in Washington, DC. Getty Images

Kushner said his efforts are not being stymied by bureaucracy. He added that he is working with employees on eliminating outdated, unsustainable policies and systems that are as much as 56 years old and have held back departments like the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Department. "By modernizing these systems we will meaningfully improve the lives of tens of millions of Americans," Kushner said. Chris Liddell, director of strategic initiatives for the Trump administration, told CNBC on Monday that the summit will especially focus on cloud and cybersecurity. The government has more than 6,000 data centers and spends $86 billion a year on technology, figures that are "orders of magnitude" higher than the private-market equivalents, Liddell said.

Apple CEO Tim Cook (L) and IBM CEO Ginni Rometty attend the inaugural meeting of the American Technology Council in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next door to the White House June 19, 2017 in Washington, DC. Getty Images

The government and Silicon Valley aim to work together despite the fact that technology leaders like Apple 's Tim Cook and Alphabet 's Eric Schmidt, for instance, have positioned themselves squarely against the administration on several issues. Cook has said he believes Trump "decided wrong" by withdrawing from the Paris Agreement on climate change. Schmidt has been outspoken about the importance of more skilled immigration  while the Trump administration has advocated for stiffer oversight.

Getty Images
Use the BCC field when figuring out the proper email address

Sometimes, the first step is simply figuring out how to get in touch with someone at your dream company. Wong has a solution. "You can cold email pretty much anyone in the business world by guessing their email," he says. In the BCC field, he says to try "every combination you can think of." Why? "That way when you send it, they don't know how desperate you were to reach them," he says. By doing that, you'll get bounce back errors from the emails that didn't properly send, and you'll find out which address worked by process of elimination. Then, he says, you'll be able to infer everyone's email in the company using the same protocol. Wong also recommends trying a simple Google search in case the person's email address was publicly posted somewhere online.

Brian Wong, chief executive officer and co-founder of mobile advertising company Kiip. David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Offer something and pick on something in the message
President Donald Trump and Lockheed Martin Corp are both on the same page when it comes to defense spending and delivering value for money for U.S. taxpayers, CEO Marillyn Hewson told CNBC on Monday.

In December, President-elect Trump tweeted criticism of Lockheed Martin's F-35 fighter jet program, saying the cost was "out of control". The company's market value subsequently fell by around $4 billion.

"I think what President Trump was trying to communicate to the American citizens is that he is going to increase defense spending and he wants to make sure that he spends those dollars wisely We certainly agree with that," Lockheed's Hewson told CNBC on the sidelines of the Paris Air Show.

Lockheed Martin is in the final stages of negotiating a deal worth approximately $37 billion to sell a record 440 F-35 fighter jets to a group of 11 countries, including the U.S, according to a Reuters report.

Hewson said that while global security threats continued to increase, the Maryland-based defense contractor remained on course to deliver around 160 jets every year.

The Paris Air Show is set to see Lockheed Martin's stealthy F-35 jet for the first time this week.
A federal judge Monday rejected, for now, Martin Shkreli's bid to reduce his criminal release bail from $5 million to $2 million during a hearing that exposed his high tax debts, legal fees, and off-beat collectibles.

Shkreli's lawyer Benjamin Brafman also said that the accused securities fraudster, who claimed to be worth up to $70 million when he was arrested in late 2015, now "doesn't have any cash."

Despite that, Brafman conceded, Shkreli recently has made some "preposterous promises" to pay rewards. Those include a $40,000 payment for a math proof, and $100,000 for the identity of the murderer of a Democratic National Committee staffer, in what the lawyer said was an effort to remain in the public eye.

The lawyer said Shrekli has actually not made good on any such reward payment. He said his client is "traveling to his [own] very unique drummer."

Brafman also suggested that the one-of-a-kind Wu-Tang Clan album that Shkreli paid $2 million for several years ago is "probably worthless."

Shkreli appeared in Brooklyn, New York, federal court to push for his bail reduction, and for arguments on other issues in advance of his trial, which is set to begin next week. He is accused of looting the former drug company he founded, Retrophin, out of millions to repay investors in two hedge funds he ran, whom he is also accused of defrauding.

Shkreli, who had denied the charges, wanted to have $3 million released from the E-Trade account that is now securing his bail to pay off several debts.

During the hearing, federal prosecutors said Retrophin, which has agreed to pay the majority of its ex-CEO Shkreli's criminal defense fees, has paid Brafman's firm a whopping $4.8 million so far. Brafman disputed that, saying it was $800,000 less that his firm has been paid.

Brafman also said his law firm was fronting Shkreli hundreds of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket legal expenses in preparation for trial for things such as making copies of files.

"Mr. Shkreli is still worth a lot of money," Brafman said, while noting the slew of debts he needs cash for.

Brafman, who told the judge that none of the $3 million being sought would go to Shkreli, said he "owes $6 million in taxes."

But the lawyer said the Internal Revenue Service has agreed, for now, to accept just $1 million, and New York State tax officials to accept $1.25 million in acknowledgment that some of Shkreli's tax liability might be reduced by losses he has incurred. Once the tax authorities get their money, the balance of the $3 million could be paid out to two other entities.

Brafman said Shkreli also owes $326,085 to his civil law firm, Fox Rothschild, to date, and that those fees keep rising every day.

And he owes another $50,000 to an accounting firm that has does forensic work for his defense, and helped clean up his tax issues, Brafman said. That firm is actually owed close to $250,000 for its work to date, he said.

Brafman said that while Shkreli might be cash broke, he does have an ownership stake in the other drug company he founded, Turing Pharmaceuticals, which is worth between $30 million to $50 million.

But the lawyer said Shkreli is not able to sell part of that stake at the moment to raise money because Turing is privately held, and the sale of his stake is subject to other shareholders.

Brafman, in arguing for the bail reduction, said Shkreli is not a flight risk, has family in the area, and noted that his bail amount is five times as high as that of his co-defendant, former Retrophin business lawyer Evan Greebel.

Federal prosecutor Alixandra Smith strongly objected to the request to reduce Shkreli's bail, saying that defense lawyers had been suggesting a reduction for eight months.

Smith noted that Shkreli is refusing to fill out a financial affidavit that would disclose his assets, as other criminal defendants routinely do when obtaining bail.

She also argued that he has made public statements that suggest he has liquid assets, and that he is paying rent.

And she noted that in addition to offering a reward for the solution to a math proof during a recent speech at Princeton, Shkreli had claimed to purchase, for an undisclosed sum, an album from rapper L'il Wayne.

Smith said Shkreli had indicated he owns a Picasso painting, as well as an original Engima machine, a device use for encryption during World War II. At the most recent auction of an Enigma machine, Smith said, the device sold for $296,000. And she said Shkreli has purchased Internet domain names of reporters who have written articles about him.

Smith said she does not understand why Shkreli cannot sell his stake in Turing.

And she argued that the risk that he will flee is rising as his trial next week gets closer.

Smith also argued that there was a risk that the trial judge, by releasing $3 million so some of Shkreli's debts could be paid, would be depriving people who have liens on Shkreli from getting their money in order of legal precedence.

Judge Kiyo Matsumoto, in denying the motion to reduce bail, cited that last concern. She allowed Brafman to renew the motion in the future if some of the concerns could be alleviated.

Both prosecutors and the defense told Matsumoto that they expected the trial to last between five to six weeks.

That irked the judge, who had been told months ago to expect a three-week-long trial, and who had budgeted her trial schedule accordingly.

Prosecutors as of now expect to call up to 57 witnesses.

Jury selection begins June 26, and the judge said she hopes to pick all 12 jurors and six alternates that day, and then immediately begin the trial with opening arguments that day.
Hudson's Bay describes itself as a global retailer, best known as the parent company to Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue. In fact, the company has been focused on selling garments for the last 350 years.

Then, on Monday, an investor who has amassed a 4.3 percent stake, sent a letter to Hudson's board arguing that the best use of Hudson's Bay's real estate was not as department stores, sending the stock more than 16 percent higher.

That investor is Jonathan Litt. He's better known in real-estate circles than retail ones. His firm, Land and Buildings Investment Management, does what the name implies: it takes stakes in real-estate companies and sometimes pushes for strategic changes.

In the case of Hudson's Bay, Litt said in the letter Monday that the company's real estate is worth four times what the trading value of the entire company was before he disclosed his letter. He describes Hudson's Bay as "one of those rare diamonds in the rough that a real estate investor occasionally finds in a career."

Litt has spent nearly three decades focused on the real-estate industry  beginning his career at BrookHill Properties in 1988 and then moving to the sell side six years later to become an analyst. Ultimately he became a managing director and senior property analyst at Citigroup.

In 2008, Litt left the research world to make his own bets. He raised a fund and started targeting publicly traded real estate and real estate-related securities in an activist fashion. He currently serves as Land and Buildings' chief investment officer.

His playbook has largely focused on finding ways to monetize real estate to enhance shareholder value. That was the case at BRE Properties, which sold to Essex Property Trust for $4.3 billion in 2013, as well as Associated Estates, which sold itself to Brookfield for $2.5 billion in 2015. It was also the case at MGM Resorts, which spun off some of its real estate through an initial public offering in 2016.

Litt had been pushing Taubman Centers, a shopping-mall operator, to explore strategic alternatives as well, and that ultimately turned into one of the most contentious proxy battles of the 2017 season. Despite receiving support from the proxy advisory services ISS and Glass Lewis for nominating himself and Charles Elson of the University of Delaware to Taubman's board, Litt did not receive enough shareholder votes at the company's annual meeting earlier this month.

Land and Buildings has called for a special meeting to de-stagger Taubman's board and add three new independent directors before next year's meeting. The firm has also filed a complaint to limit the family's voting power, which amounts to about 30 percent.

With Hudson's Bay, Litt is urging the company to consider being taken private by management or consider other uses for its real estate.

He points to Saks Fifth Avenue's building across the street from Rockefeller Center in Manhattan and questions whether its best use is as a department store.

He asks: "What about a hotel? Or office? Or boutique retail stores the likes of Apple and Gucci? Or an internet retailer looking to go upscale through bricks and mortar presence as Amazon appears to be doing with its purchase of Whole Foods?"

Hudson's Bay confirmed that it received the letter from Litt and said that it is "reviewing the letter and will respond in due course."

"Hudson's Bay is a real estate company, full stop," Litt wrote. "If there is a smarter and better use of any or all of the locations, stores should be closed and redeveloped and put toward their optimal use."

Watch: Hudson's Bay to cut 2,000 North American jobs
President of French far-right National Front party Marine Le Pen delivers a speech at a campaign rally on March 11, 2017 in Chateauroux, France.

While French President Emmanuel Macron's Le Republique En Marche! party steamrollered its way to a majority in the second round of voting of parliamentary elections, his presidential rival Marine Le Pen's National Front fell victim to France's electoral system.

According to the French Interior Ministry, the far right National Front gained just under 1.6 million votes, placing third after En Marche! and Les Republicains, who earned the support of 7.8 million and 4.0 million voters respectively.

But this figure - equivalent to 8.8 percent of voters - translated to a mere eight parliamentary seats, dwarfed by the 350-seat majority Macron and his centrist allies Modem now hold.

The result did show that Le Pen had made some headway in bringing her anti-EU, anti-immigration party closer to power, as its seat count was up six from the last election in 2012. Le Pen herself won a seat in the northern constituency of Henin-Beaumont.

"The results will allow Le Pen to consolidate her position at the helm of her party. Recall that following her defeat, the latent fractures inside (the National Front) were exposed," Antonio Barroso, deputy director of research at advisory firm Teneo Intelligence write in a note Monday.

Barroso also explained that Le Pen's election will enable the next National Front leader to grow the party into a wider political movement. But, "the tensions inside the far-right force are unlikely to subside anytime soon," he added.

Contrasting with National Front's fate, Modem secured the support of 1.1 million voters. Though this was half a million fewer that the National Front and worth just over 6 percent of the total votes cast, Modem now holds 42 seats.

Emily Mansfield of the Economist Intelligence Unit told CNBC via telephone that the National Front had fallen victim to the France's voting framework. She added that the Fifth Republic, founded after World War Two, had an "electoral system designed to keep extremist parties out."

Follow CNBC International on Twitter and Facebook.
The Trump administration sees nuclear power as "a very important part" of an all-of-the-above energy strategy, Department of Energy Secretary Rick Perry said Monday.

"Bringing our nuclear energy industry back, small modular reactors for instance, that's on the front burner so to speak," he told CNBC's "Squawk Box" on the sidelines of the SelectUSA Investment Summit, which promotes investment in the U.S.

Perry's comment offers some insight into the administration's spending priorities as it seeks to slash funding for Energy's research and development programs by 54 percent from 2016 levels. Offices that would see deep cuts  unless Congress intervenes  include those responsible for promoting energy efficiency and extending the life of nuclear power plants.

Nuclear reactors currently generate about 20 percent of the country's power. The U.S. Energy Information Administration projects that share will decline to 11 percent by 2050 as some of the nation's aging nuclear power plants retire, and due to competition from natural gas and renewable sources.

That has raised concerns that a significant chunk of the country's zero-emissions electricity generation could come offline, making it harder to rein in greenhouse gas emissions if that power is not replaced with solar, wind and other renewable energy.

The viability of future large-scale nuclear plants has recently come into question. Industry leader Westinghouse filed for bankruptcy in March as delays and cost overruns piled up at new nuclear plants in Georgia and South Carolina.

The Department of Energy has promoted research into the small modular reactors that Perry mentioned.

These small reactors can be combined and produce up to a quarter of the typical power that traditional nuclear plants generate. They aim to keep nuclear power in the mix while avoiding the huge investment cost of new large plants.
Source: Showtime

The most telling moment in "The Putin Interviews," director Oliver Stone's four-hour conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, recorded over the course of nearly two years, comes late in the second hour. Stone is trying to get Putin to say whether he does or doesn't like then-presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. Putin demurs entirely but offers up a theory of how power functions. Should Sanders become president, Putin says, he would suddenly realize the vast weight of the American bureaucracy that existed underneath him. He might make some changes to the U.S. on a domestic level, but he would ultimately be unable to change that much  the person at the head of the state matters less than the centuries of power the state has accumulated and will protect at all costs. People aren't responsible for what happens; the vast structures surrounding them are. Look at Barack Obama, Putin suggests. He sincerely wanted to close the Guantanamo Bay prison, and did he? No. You can't fight the state. More from Vox:

Buying Whole Foods could turn Amazon's floundering grocery delivery business into a juggernaut

The FBI is America's best hope against Trump

How to stop cruel factory farming: Start with one animal This is telling for two reasons. The first is that it, if true, explains Putin's motives in regards to the United States in the time since that interview was conducted in 2016. But the second reason is even more telling. This isn't just how Putin sees [insert U.S. president here]. It's how he sees himself: as a conduit for the vast sweep of history, guided less by his own political beliefs and desires than by forces even he can barely understand.

Oliver Stone is not a great interviewer, and that ultimately compromises this film

The knock against "The Putin Interviews" is that it's a bit of hagiography on the part of Stone, who's the kind of reflexive old lefty who sees the U.S. as the root of almost all of the world's ills and, therefore, anyone who opposes the U.S. even mildly as a necessary evil to push back against the American-imposed darkness. Regardless of how much you agree with this point of view, it's animated nearly all of Stone's films and documentaries, both good ("JFK") and not so good ("W."). And it's not a bad framework for a scripted film. In "JFK," for instance, the idea that the U.S. power structure is so entrenched that it will create a byzantine conspiracy to remove one man who dares oppose it even slightly becomes a vivid portrayal of the country's darkest self. You don't have to believe that JFK conspiracy theories are literally true to believe "JFK" is true, in other words. At his best, Stone gives us a way to discuss these fears we have about our country's true aims. But in a documentary  even a documentary with aims of propaganda  that framework works less well, because it becomes just as simplistic a frame for reality as "U.S. good, everybody else bad." Of Stone's documentaries, his 10-part 2012 Showtime series "The Untold History of the United States" probably came closest to blending his worldview with a truly compelling nonfiction film. But even there, Stone often went in for tit for tat  sure, the Soviet Union might have done this bad thing, but the U.S. also did this bad thing. It worked there as a way to try to jar Americans out of a post-Cold War complacency, a belief that we might have done some bad things in that period, but it was all justified in the name of beating back the Soviet menace. But it works less well in "The Putin Interviews," which too neatly glosses over plenty of things that Putin is doing to his own people in the name of painting him as a reasonable critic of the U.S. This is particularly egregious when the film turns to, say, Russia's treatment of its LGBTQ citizens, or its frequent military incursions into former Soviet republics like Ukraine and Georgia. Stone will suggest that critics find Russia's anti-LGBTQ laws overly harsh, and then Putin will say, "Oh, hey, I don't really agree with people who are gay, but we don't persecute them either." But Stone doesn't otherwise provide evidence to the contrary. He just suggests it exists, then lets Putin respond to it, within a framework that has already written off most critics of Russia, especially those in the U.S. media, as untrustworthy. What's most frustrating about this is that it's clear Stone doesn't intend for the film to be a direct celebration of Putin. He's cagier with Putin than I expected, given the prerelease hype, and he'll occasionally pounce on one of the leader's contradictions. He also films Putin, frequently, from jittery, off-center angles, in ways that make you question not just the man but the presentation of the entire interview itself. (My favorite choice in this regard is Stone's decision to let you hear his Russian-to-English translator softly murmuring over most of Putin's answers.) But Stone simply isn't a good enough interviewer to make this a valuable exercise. He leaves obvious follow-up questions dangling, and he's too indebted to his original vision of the project  as a sort of "let's figure out who this man is, instead of who we've heard he is" biography  to really roll with major world events, be they the Syrian conflict or accusations of Russian meddling in the 2016 election. The events depicted in this documentary are fluid, and Stone isn't good enough at pivoting to match them.

Oliver Stone isn't a very good interviewer  and maybe that doesn't matter
Robots don't get tired, they don't need breaks, and they don't get distracted. They will eventually be able to do things with greater precision and sophistication than humans, whether physical work or knowledge work. When robots get sick (broken), they're much easier to fix or even replace. Robots don't need to commute to jobs, which saves on energy costs. Robots don't need paid vacation or catered lunches. For all these reasons, robots will eventually be the most competitive option for the majority of jobs. A few more decades of improvement on artificial intelligence and robotics should yield far more capable machines that can perform almost all work more effectively and more efficiently than humans.

Long term, automation isn't bull---. If we don't have machines and software capable of performing most of the tasks we call labor in 30, 40, 50 years, then it will be a failure of Google and our technology ecosystem. We already have machines that can see and hear. We have machines that can roughly manipulate objects in the real world. We have machines that can "understand" enough at a base level to be useful at specialized tasks.

Timing. While Schmidt said he expects AI to create more jobs instead of eliminate them, it's unclear what time frame he's considering. When people talk about AI eliminating jobs, it's almost always on how far out they're looking into the future. Sometimes that's five years, sometimes it's 20, and sometimes it's 50. At the same conference, GE CEO Jeff Immelt said the idea that robots would run factories in five years is "bull----." That I can agree with. The five-year picture of automation isn't going to result in mass job loss, but the transition will start. Low-skill blue collar jobs will see continued automation. We should start to see autonomous vehicles and continued industrial automation.

At the Viva Tech conference in Paris, Google Chairman Eric Schmidt stated that he believes automation will create more jobs, not eliminate them. I think he's wrong, and I hope he's wrong. Disagreeing with the Chairman of the most advanced AI company in the world about automation is a dangerous game, but there are three things that can challenge his statement: timing, incentives, and economic realities. Let's discuss his position through each of those lenses.

A few more decades of improvement on artificial intelligence and robotics should yield far more capable machines that can perform almost all work more effectively and more efficiently than humans.

Incentives. Any discussion around job creation or loss is highly political, which means it's also highly emotional. Many people get scared or even angry when confronted with the possibility of mass automation and human "unemployment". Eric Schmidt is a savvy politician, and Google is the world's leader in artificial intelligence development. He doesn't want the world associating Google with job loss because it could negatively impact their business. He may also have other desires to serve in public office and is setting the stage for those ambitions. Either way, he's incentivized to be an automation unemployment denier.

But the issue of incentives flows similarly to all executives and CEOs, Immelt included. They're in an impossible political situation. If Immelt, or any CEO, were to embrace robots capable of eliminating human jobs, there would be backlash among their employees. No worker would be happy to be viewed as a stop gap to automation. There would also be massive PR backlash.

This psychological reality of having to avoid these negative incentives can have real impact on the progress of automation adoption. Decision makers who are caught between looking for improved productivity from automation and maintaining jobs may be forced to seek suboptimal solutions to keep humans employed. Over the past several decades, automation in factories hasn't meaningfully improved productivity. One reason may be that robot installations approved by executives are done so with the goal of sustaining human jobs rather than maximizing total productivity.

Economic Realities. During his speech, Schmidt argued that not only could automation help create more jobs, but also raise wages. He said that if you "make people smarter" via computers, their wages should increase. In a vacuum this might be true, but in reality this seems to ignore supply and demand.

Let's take an example in knowledge work automation. In the future, computers are going to be better accountants, financial advisors, actuaries, claims adjusters, etc. than humans. All of these are highly logical jobs driven by information. Per Schmidt's argument, automating these functions should lead to more jobs, which may be true. Knowledge work jobs might still need a human front end to present the end results from the computer with a human touch (empathy); however, now you're employing a good customer service operator, not an accountant.

In fact, the human might not need to have much more than an entry level understanding of accounting and a positive demeanor to present the script that the computer provides them, which means that far more people are qualified to perform the job of presenting accounting results from a machine than are qualified to be an accountant. Given this great supply of potential workers, it's hard to see how wages for workers replacing accountants would rival those of accountants today.

Knowledge work seems most sensitive to the economic realities of making humans smarter, but the same can apply to blue collar work. If autonomous trucking becomes a reality in the next decade, that might result in lower freight fees, which might result in increased demand for freight services, which might result in increased demand for dock workers or truck loaders; however, those skills are widely available and now there are a pool of unemployed truck drivers to fill those spots. Again, supply and demand would suggest businesses need not pay higher wages to attract workers to lower-skilled labor.

What We Can Agree On. Instead of debating wither automation will create jobs or eliminate them, we should instead start to set aside the modern dogma that humans must have jobs to survive and be productive. We should consider what a world would look like where humans don't have to work. A world where all humans don't need to worry about basic needs because of automation, freeing them to explore what it means to be human. Free to provide value through empathy, community, and creativity  the things robots cannot do. Maybe we won't agree on the outcome of automation, but one point we hopefully all agree on is that the future is bright because of automation, not in spite of it.

Disclaimer: Loup Ventures actively writes about the themes in which we invest: artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual reality, and augmented reality. From time to time, we will write about companies that are in our portfolio. Content on this site including opinions on specific themes in technology, market estimates, and estimates and commentary regarding publicly traded or private companies is not intended for use in making investment decisions. We hold no obligation to update any of our projections. We express no warranties about any estimates or opinions we make.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren is calling for the ouster of 12 board members at Wells Fargo due to the fake accounts scandal that has rocked the bank.

In a letter sent Monday to Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen, the Massachusetts Democrat said the scandal has "revealed severe problems with the bank's risk management practices." Warren said the central bank has the authority under federal statute to remove the members who were on the board as the matter transpired.

"We have received the letter and plan to respond," a Fed spokesman told CNBC.

In an agreement with multiple authorities last September, Wells agreed to pay a $185 million fine in conjunction with a scandal in which some 2 million client accounts were created without the customers' knowledge.

More accounts may be involved, according to subsequent allegations.

Even after paying the fine, Wells has continued to undergo reputational damage amid congressional inquiries and additional disclosures

Warren, who has been a harsh critic, pointed out in the letter multiple instances where she believes the board at Wells failed customers.

"The fake accounts scandal cost Wells Fargo customers millions of dollars in unauthorized fees and damaged many of their credit scores," the senator wrote. "The scandal also revealed severe problems with the bank's risk management practices  problems that justify the Federal Reserve's removal of all responsible Board members."

Wells Fargo did not respond to a request for comment. Wells Fargo shares gained about 1.1 percent in early trading, about in line with the sector.

Warren did not limit her criticism to Wells  she also said the Fed "has done nothing to date" to punish the bank "despite its ample statutory authority."

"I urge you to use the tools Congress has given you to remove the responsible board members and protect the continued safety and soundness of one of the country's largest banks," she wrote.

The scandal arose as bank employees sought to meet aggressive sales demands. Employees would enroll customers in various programs without their consent in order to make quotas that have since been disbanded.

Some 5,300 employees have been terminated as a result, and the bank also has a new CEO, Timothy J. Sloan, who took over for John Stumpf.

For the Fed to act, it would need to establish that any individual board member's actions were unsafe or unsound to the bank. The Fed likely would need to initiate an enforcement action and prove its case.

Yellen told Congress during testimony shortly after the scandal broke in September that the Fed is reviewing all operations for large banks and believes that in cases of wrongdoing, "senior management (should) be held accountable."
South Korean President Moon Jae-in speaks at the National Assembly on the government budget on June 12, 2017 in Seoul, South Korea.

South Korea's president Moon Jae-in has vowed to scrap all existing plans for new nuclear power plants and cancel lifetime extensions for aged reactors, heralding a major overhaul for the country's energy policy.

It marked Mr Moon's second major announcement to change the country's power mix after ordering a temporary halt on eight of the country's older coal power plants soon after taking office last month, amid growing health concerns in one of the world's most polluted countries.

"We will abolish our nuclear-centred energy policy and move towards a nuclear-free era," Mr Moon said on Monday in the coastal city Busan, marking the closure of the country's first nuclear reactor built in 1977. "So far, the country's energy policy focused on low prices and efficiency. But this should change now with our top priority on public safety and the environment."

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He added that the country would soon shut down another aged nuclear plant following a previous extension of its lifecycle, while hinting at halting the construction of two new nuclear reactors conditional upon a public consensus.

South Korea has the sixth-largest fleet of nuclear reactors in the world, generating about one-third of its energy needs from 25 reactors. But concerns over nuclear safety have intensified after Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011 and a major earthquake in the country's southeastern city last year.

The new policy represents a break from the past administrations, which favoured cheaper but dirty coal power and riskier nuclear energy over more costly natural gas and clean renewables.

Worsening air pollution emerged as one of the main campaign issues in South Korea's recent election, with air pollution soaring to record highs in the first few months of 2017. Coal-fired power plants were blamed as one of the main culprits for worsening pollution.

South Korea operates 59 coal-fired power plants that supply nearly 40 per cent of the country's total electricity, but Mr Moon has promised to close those older than 30 years within his five-year presidential term and to not build new coal plants.

But experts caution that the shift could result in energy supply shortages and higher costs for the country that imports much of its energy from overseas. South Korea has the highest per capita electricity demand in Asia, although the country ranks among the top importers of coal, oil and gas in the world.

"It is a step in the right direction but there is a question mark over how to address the potential supply shortfall and rising costs," says Kim Kyung-nam, professor at the Graduate School of Energy and Environment at Korea University.

Mr Moon has vowed to increase the portion of renewable energy to 20 per cent by 2030 and increase LNG-fired power production, even raising the possibility of reviving a deal to import natural gas from Russia through North Korean territory.

Renewable sources account for 6.6 per cent of the country's energy supply, the lowest among OECD countries, as their production has been damped by technological constraints, heavy regulations and weak demand.

The government plans to invest Won13.8tn ($12.2bn) this year in developing alternative energy sources in order to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 37 per cent by 2030 under the Paris climate agreement. It also plans to ease regulations and offer more incentives to spur clean energy production.

But experts worry that it could be challenging to increase clean energy production, given the lack of natural resources for the populous and mountainous country. This would mean higher energy costs for South Korean industries, which have enjoyed low electricity prices.

"If you get rid of nuclear energy, which is relatively low cost once built, and replace coal with more expensive LNG, that's going to translate into higher electricity prices, which could hurt domestic industries [and] it is not going to be popular," says Kerry-Anne Shanks at energy consultant Wood Mackenzie.

Experts also caution the government's anti-nuclear stance bodes ill for the country's ambition to export more reactors abroad. On the back of the thriving domestic industry, state-run utility Kepco has emerged as one of the few international players capable of successfully building nuclear reactors, unlike overseas rivals mired in cost overruns and construction delays.

"One of Kepco's biggest strengths is its track record in development of domestic nuclear capacity. Mr Moon's plans to suspend or scrap nuclear developments within South Korea could hurt this record." says Ms Shanks.

"A withdrawal of government support for nuclear development in South Korea would send a negative signal to foreign countries looking to purchase reactors."
Doug Lynam, a former monk and teacher, who is now a financial adviser, a role he calls being a suffering prevention specialist, at his office in Santa Fe, N.M., June 5, 2017.

There are many things that Doug Lynam has to think about now that he no longer wears a robe and lives in a monastery. Socks, for one. Do they match? Should he care? "How does this color thing work?" he wondered aloud in his office this week while sporting a muted gray pair that did not in fact clash. But after decades as a committed seeker, he at least has found his calling. He wants to help schools build better retirement savings plans, so their teachers can leave the classroom at a time of their choosing with dignity and grace. His path to that purpose had some unexpected stops along the way. In his early teenage years in Naperville, Ill., Mr. Lynam dabbled in Christian fundamentalism. "I found community, family and friendship," he said. "But the theology was very conservative." More from The New York Times:

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How to fix a retirement plan at a school or nonprofit Then came the longhaired hippie phase. "They talked about peace and love," he said. "But there was a lot of smug satisfaction about shared values. What were they doing to help and serve others? The answer was, not much." He sought guidance at St. John's College here in Santa Fe, a school known for its rigorous, traditional curriculum. "Kant and Hegel have lots of answers, but there isn't an answer," he said. "There are signposts." And then came a stint in the Marine Corps Officer Candidates School in 1994 and 1995. "I didn't want to kill people for a living," he said. "And there was no pressing global conflict or need for my service." While it all may seem somewhat flighty, Mr. Lynam, 43, said the bouncing around merely reflected a restless soul who was nonetheless committed to doing good. "Why did God put me on this earth?" he said. "If I can't figure that out, how do I pick a career or spouse, or operate in the world? I felt like I needed to answer that question fundamentally before I could be of use to anyone." It was his thesis adviser from St. John's who invited him to become a Benedictine monk, and the appeal was immediate. "If you're really searching for the meaning of life, where better to find it than a monastery?" Mr. Lynam said. The commitment required oaths of celibacy, obedience and poverty. The three monks in residence in Santa Fe did paid work as teachers and pooled their funds. One of the senior monks managed the money, Mr. Lynam said.

Monk Procession in Bec Abbey Philippe Lissac | Getty Images

By the end of the 1990s, however, there was trouble. The three monks had never asked the public for financial support, and they didn't take money from the Catholic Church either, as they wished to maintain their independence. But poverty had turned out to be a relative term. The monks needed cars and new tires and health insurance, and they lived in a house that came with expenses. They took others on religious retreats and made trips to Rome themselves. Both older monks had brought debt to the relationship that Mr. Lynam did not know about until years into their brotherhood. Eventually, they were so far in the hole that personal bankruptcy for all three of them was the best option for keeping the monastery intact. While Mr. Lynam did not ultimately appear before a judge in his robe, the irony and embarrassment were no fun nonetheless. "It was emotionally gut-wrenching," said Mr. Lynam, who didn't know much about personal finance at the time. "One of the worst things that has ever happened to me." But it also awakened something in him. The stream of visitors to his monastery would arrive with many purported reasons. As the junior monk, he did not give much religious counsel. But he soon recognized a pattern: Every person who arrived with a spiritual issue had a financial problem lurking somewhere beneath it.

Every person who arrived with a spiritual issue had a financial problem lurking somewhere beneath it.
President Donald Trump is about to begin his push to lower drug prices. According to several reports, he's likely to sign an executive order outlining a plan by early July. The good news is that the easiest and most beneficial way to cut prices comes from something Trump likes to do already: reduce regulations.

Few industries are laden with more regulations and government-imposed delays than big pharma. Since we're talking about potentially lethal drugs here, there are obviously some good reasons for a number of those rules. But critics have long complained that some of them don't provide more safety while they add to the industry's costs and reduce competition.

According to the consensus view, the best way to reduce drug prices would be to allow Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices in bulk. The crowd may be right as far getting an initial sticker price reduction, but price controls come with hazardous side effects like rationing, black market sales, and stifling innovation. Price controls are already in place in much of the world's single payer health care systems and the side effects have jacked up the effective cost of drugs accordingly.

As humorist P.J. O'Rourke used to say: "If you think health care is expensive now, wait until it's 'free.' "

That's where the easy choices the president can make come in. And they can all be done without Congressional approval. Here are the top three:

1) Easing the approval process for generics and biosimilars

President Trump's new FDA chief Scott Gottlieb has already been talking about speeding and easing the path to drug approvals and getting drugs to market. If that scares you into thinking about a ton of dangerous drugs suddenly hitting your pharmacy shelves, take a breath. Much of this involves getting generic brands of already known-to-be-safe drugs to market faster. Gottlieb told Congress he wants the FDA to force the big drug companies to stop hiding behind his agency's safety rules as an excuse not to cooperate more in the generic drug production process. In other words, some of those safety rules are being abused, and getting rid of them is overdue.

But a subset of the generic drug category are so-called biosimilars that don't have the exact same active ingredients as the branded drug, but produce similar results. The process for getting a biosimilar approved is tougher and longer than for a regular generic. But "tougher" is an understatement as it usually takes seven additional years for a biosimilar to be approved compared to a regular generic.

Gottlieb told Congress last month that he wants to make narrowing that gap a priority. For a series of bestselling drugs, experts say speeding the biosimilar approval process would have a major impact. That includes the arthritis drugs Humira and Remicade, and the cancer drug Avastin.

2) Remove barriers for branded drugs too

The generic and biosimilar policies Gottlieb likes and President Trump may approve won't make the big drug companies happy. A lot of their profits are connected to drugs that don't have generic competition. But there are plenty of things the administration could do that would make Big Pharma smile. And these moves would also result in drugs getting to the consumer faster.

First, the FDA should start allowing limited sales of drugs that have already passed the typical Phase I and Phase II clinical trials before they clear that final Phase III hurdle.There are still obvious dangers that can be uncovered in a drug during Phase III, but patients who are advised of the risks should have the right to try drugs at that stage. This is especially true for people already facing a terminal illness. The FDA would still reserve the right to pull the drug altogether if patients using it experience new problems.

Second, it would be beneficial for the companies and the customers if the FDA automatically approved drugs that have been cleared for sale by the European Medicines Agency, which often employs a tougher approval process than the FDA.

Finally, you've probably noticed that drug companies spend a lot of time and money these days on sophisticated marketing and advertising. They also still send drug sales reps to doctors' offices across the country hoping to educate them on their drugs and boost prescriptions.

One of the reasons for these frantic and expensive efforts is the fact that while a drug is in the clinical testing process, there's a ban on the drug companies from sharing information about them with insurers, hospitals, and private practice doctors. This ban is meant to protect the approval process from the massive consumer demand that could arise from early marketing. But insurers and hospitals are less likely to apply that kind of pressure than potential customers.

The ban forces drug companies to spend a lot of money to get maximum publicity in a short amount of time once their expensive-to-produce drugs finally do get approved. Removing it will help spread the costs of informing medical professionals and consumers over a longer period.

3) Make more drugs over the counter

Even when the actual price of a prescription drug is relatively low, the real cost to consumers can be much higher if they have to visit their doctor every time they need to get a prescription. if some of those drugs were available over-the-counter like they are in other countries that would make them effectively cheaper. Chief among them are birth control pills and most statins that are available without prescription just about everywhere else in the world without any significant reports of abuse.

But even life-saving drugs like the highly-priced EpiPen could be made over the counter too. Why should everyone in America who legitimately needs these drugs be forced to pay so much more for them? We're not talking about addictive drugs like opioids here, but anti-allergy and asthma medications. Of course some knuckleheads might use them improperly, but we should give personal responsibility more of a role here.

The best part about over-the-counter drugs is that they're the one part of our health care system that doesn't include a third-party middleman in the payment process. And whenever someone gets in between the actual buyer and seller in a transaction, prices go haywire.

Remember, this is the same FDA that wowed medical innovators earlier this week with its announcement of a new digital health innovation plan that will lay out how new devices will be regulated so that developers don't have to waste time seeking guidance on a case-by-case basis.

Now it's time for the Trump team and the FDA to do something that will wow consumers without jeopardizing the pipeline for new drugs and treatments. Congress isn't in the way. President Trump should do this right away.

Commentary by Jake Novak, CNBC.com senior columnist. Follow him on Twitter @jakejakeny.

For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter.
Akamai is best known for its content delivery network (CDN) business, which is used by big web sites to deliver content like video more efficiently. But it also offers services that protect against certain types of cyber-attacks that can affect website reliability.

The wisecrack, which was met with laughs and groans, came as The White House hosted technology CEOs like Tim Cook and Jeff Bezos on Monday.

President Donald Trump on Monday joked to technology CEOs that the Democratic National Committee "could have used" more cybersecurity.

U.S. President Donald Trump (C) greets Apple CEO Tim Cook (L) and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella before a meeting of the American Technology Council in the State Dining Room of the White House

The DNC was hacked during the last presidential campaign when stolen Democratic material was given to WikiLeaks. Trump's opponent, Hillary Clinton, said last month that she believed the technology, including Russian hackings, WikiLeaks, "fake news" and the DNC's weak database were factors in her election loss.

Trump has previously said, though, that Clinton's focus on the hack was out of embarrassment for her loss.

Tweet: Only reason the hacking of the poorly defended DNC is discussed is that the loss by the Dems was so big that they are totally embarrassed!

The summit builds on President Donald Trump's aim to bring a business sensibility to politics, stemming from Trump's background as a media mogul.

Presidential advisor Jared Kushner said earlier on Monday that the government needed to "unleash the creativity of the private sector," noting that the U.S. government uses technology that's more than 50 years old in some cases.

Tweet: POTUS jokes that he's created more stock market value than the $3T+ in market capitalization of companies present

But it comes at a time when technology companies have more money and influence than ever in many respects.

Apple 's Tim Cook and Alphabet 's Eric Schmidt are among CEOs that have positioned themselves squarely against the administration on issues concerning immigration and the environment. But there are also major "gov-tech" contracts that could be up for grabs, former interim Yahoo CEO Ross Levinsohn told CNBC's "Closing Bell" on Monday.

 With reporting by CNBC's Kayla Tausche
Donald Trump has taken a big step towards loosening the shackles on Wall Street by nominating a Capitol Hill aide involved in efforts to rip up the Dodd-Frank act as one of the US's most powerful bank regulators.

Jim Clinger, a former aide to conservative lawmaker Jeb Hensarling, was nominated by the president to chair the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, a regulator whose tasks include winding down failing banks.

Mr Clinger was named as Wall Street banks lower their expectations for an overhaul of Dodd-Frank in Congress and pin their hopes instead on Trump-appointed regulators watering down rules within existing law.

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Highlighting the importance of appointees, Gary Cohn, the former Goldman Sachs president who now heads the White House's economic council, said earlier this year: "Personnel is policy."

The FDIC has co-written multiple rules with the Federal Reserve and other regulators to put Dodd-Frank into effect. It played a central role in the Volcker rule ban on banks gambling with their own capital, which is loathed on Wall Street.

Mr Clinger's nomination was greeted with delight by bank lobbyists, who praised the extensive experience of an understated "technician" who started work on Capitol Hill in 1995. Advocates of tougher regulation greeted the news with glum resignation.

Until earlier this year Mr Clinger was chief counsel for the House of Representatives financial services committee, serving its Republican chairman Mr Hensarling, who regularly attacks Dodd-Frank's "growth-strangling regulations".

Earlier this month the House passed a Hensarling bill that would abolish Dodd-Frank, enabling banks to escape a number of regulations by agreeing to hold more capital. The bill, however, is expected to die in the Senate.

Mr Hensarling said: "Jim Clinger is incredibly smart and a man of the highest integrity . . . President Trump made a great decision in nominating Jim for this important position."

The Trump administration has appeared sheepish about its efforts towards deregulating banks, as Democrats accuse it of pursuing an agenda contrary to the president's campaign pledge to help "forgotten" Americans.

The White House announced Mr Clinger's appointment on Friday evening at a time when it was guaranteed to get little attention. The vote on Mr Hensarling's bill was scheduled for the day when Washington was distracted by the testimony of fired Federal Bureau of Investigation director James Comey. Last week the Treasury department unveiled 147 pages of recommendations for deregulation with no fanfare and no press events.

Dennis Kelleher, head of Better Markets, a pro-regulation advocacy group, said: "It is a deliberate strategy to roll out nominees and roll back regulation at a time when it will get the least attention so Main Street doesn't know that Washington is once again working for Wall Street."

Last week's Treasury recommendations do not carry any legal authority over the US's notionally independent financial regulators, but they are expected to serve as guidelines for Trump appointees to follow.

People who know Mr Clinger on Capitol Hill describe him as an "institution" who served several different Republicans on the financial services committee and could be relied on to do whatever was asked of him. Mr Clinger has left little record of his own views on financial regulation in speeches and writings.

"You don't serve on Hensarling's staff unless you fully embrace his agenda," said Mr Kelleher. "He's just the latest nominee who will come in to deregulate Wall Street . . . This is Christmas in June for Wall Street CEOs."

If confirmed by the Senate, Mr Clinger would begin his term as FDIC chairman at the end of November 2017, replacing the Obama appointee Martin Gruenberg.

Rob Nichols, head of the American Bankers Association, a lobby group, praised Mr Clinger, who he has known for nearly two decades, as someone "deeply versed in all issues surrounding financial regulation".
London police, already stretched by a series of recent terror strikes, are investigating another attack, in which a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man was killed and 10 others were wounded. The suspect was arrested. (AP)

Under pressure to remove content that may incite radicalism, YouTube, a unit of Alphabet's (GOOGL) Google, announced a set of policies aimed at curbing extremist videos on its platform and addressing content that does not necessarily violate removal standards. (NY Times)

Apple CEO Tim Cook and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos are among the business leaders meeting at the White House today as Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner begins a process aimed at modernizing the government's information technology systems. (The Hill)

President Trump is sending two top aides, Kushner and national security aide Jason Greenblatt, to Jerusalem and Ramallah this week to discuss potential next steps in his bid to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. (Reuters)

Trump's personal lawyer said the president is not under investigation in the probe into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election, adding Trump has not received any notification that he's being reviewed. (Reuters)



* Kushner is said to be reconsidering his legal team (NY Times)

Lockheed Martin (LMT) is in the final stages of negotiating a deal worth more than $37 billion to sell a record 440 F-35 fighter jets to a group of 11 nations including the United States. (Reuters)

Boeing (BA) unveiled a new member of its best-selling 737 aircraft range, injecting new life into a faltering civil aviation market as French President Emmanuel Macron flew in to open the Paris Airshow today. (Reuters)

Reeling from scandal and a temporary absence of its co-founder, Uber is losing U.S. market share, dropping from 84 percent at the start of the year to 77 percent by the end of May. Meanwhile, smaller ride-hailing rival Lyft is accelerating. (FT)

Amazon (AMZN) is reportedly preparing to open a nearly 1 million square foot distribution hub in the New York, the firm's first major facility in the state, by the end of the summer. (New York Post)
The U.S. Department of Defense says the presence of the world's most expensive fighter jet in Paris is a clear sign of the U.S. commitment to NATO.



The F-35A took to the skies above the French capital on Monday, wowing the crowd with a series of high- and low-speed maneuvers.



Gen. Tod D. Wolters, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, said the exhibition was an example of the willingness of the U.S. Air Force to work with allies.



"The presence of the U.S. F-35A at this Paris Air Show shows a degree of cooperation with our partners. And the NATO region will very soon further embrace the F-35Bs in the United Kingdom," he said in a panel presentation Monday. "The more we sit together side by side and think through ways to better integrate the better. That is exactly what is happening at this air show."



Wolters added that training allies in the operation of the F-35 was part of the wider goal to create a strong NATO force.



"I'm the NATO air chief. We wake up and our goal is to train and exercise like there is no tomorrow and our purpose is to take that NATO force and with each and every hour, minute, second we want a gradual improvement in our readiness.



"And that means that we will be ready for every occurrence that could take place in the region with the aim of protecting the sovereign land and skies of NATO members," he added.



The F-35 has been criticized for being too expensive, but news agency Reuters is reporting that people familiar with the matter say the plane's manufacturer, Lockheed Martin , is on the brink of a huge $37 billion deal to sell 440 F-35 fighter jets to 11 nations.



U.S. President Donald Trump has called NATO obsolete and has rebuked European allies for not spending enough on defense.



Speaking at the same presentation, Heidi Grant, deputy undersecretary of the Air Force for International Affairs, said it is clear that NATO countries have been getting the message for some time.



"My observation is that years ago many countries depended on the U.S. but I think that in the last several years our partners are realizing that our stocks and munitions aren't what they used to be," she said.

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Watch: Inside the F-35
Wall Street is increasingly worried about Amazon's threat to Costco after the e-commerce giant's $13.7 billion deal to buy Whole Foods Market .

Costco shares fell 7 percent Friday on the news.



And now one trading day after Goldman Sachs downgraded Costco, another bank is following suit.



Deutsche Bank on Monday lowered its rating for Costco to hold from buy, saying the competitive advantage from its food business is at risk due to Amazon.

"The Whole Foods Market acquisition represents a game changer with Costco's competitive moat in grocery under greater threat while its digital platform lags peers, putting membership renewal at risk for decline," analyst Paul Trussell wrote in a note to clients Monday. "The pipeline of positive catalysts has played out and the competitive backdrop is intensifying with Amazon & Wal-Mart accelerating in-store and online efforts and innovation."



The analyst reduced his price target for the company to $172 from $187, representing just 3 percent upside from the Friday's close. Shares were down almost 2 percent to $163.88 during early trading Monday.

After the downgrade, seven analysts recommend buying Costco shares and now five have a hold rating. No analysts have a sell rating.
Uber is reeling.

Allegations about its treatment of women have hurt its brand among investors, riders and engineers. The company is facing lawsuits on several fronts and has huge holes in senior leadership, which could make it hard to raise more funding, while shares of Lyft are suddenly in hot demand among investors.

And as previously reported, Uber burns a lot of cash  a reported $2.8 billion in 2016 alone  to keep drivers and riders on its app.

What happens if Uber can't go public, can't raise another round of funding, and disappears?

We asked three investors for their take. Here's what they said.

Investors would be fine  but others would suffer. Waze and Moovit co-founder Uri Levine said, "It's not investors you should worry about, but Uber's employees, drivers and users."

Seven-year-old Uber now employs about 12,000 full-time. Millions of drivers rely on its platform to find fares and generate income as independent contractors. And the company has boasted that 20 million people have downloaded its ride-hailing app.

If Uber fizzles, employees would lose their stock options at a minimum. If Uber folded entirely, employees and drivers would face unemployment, and riders would be left waiting for other services to fill the void in transportation.

Tech investor Bedy Yang, a managing partner with 500 Startups, said, "If Uber failed, investors would be hurt only if they paid a high price for their shares, and have Uber as the single standout in their fund. But that's not how investing works, generally. Investors generally learned that lesson in the dotcom bust. Firms do not bet everything on a single company."

Uber's investors have included everyone from tech juggernauts like Google (via its venture arm GV) and Microsoft , to financial firms like Lowercase Capital, NEA, Goldman Sachs , TPG Growth and BlackRock , to even Jay-Z.
Arlene Foster, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), left, waves as Nigel Dodds, deputy leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), looks on as they pose for photographers on the steps of number 10 Downing Street, during their arrival for a meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May, in London, U.K., on Tuesday, June 13, 2017. Luke MacGregor | Bloomberg | Getty Images

British Prime Minister Theresa May is drawing ever-closer to striking a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) which will enable her to form a parliamentary majority and remain at the helm of the government. Senior Conservative sources confirmed on last week that ongoing talks between the two parties were "very positive and constructive", and with the Queen set to open parliament on June 21 a deal looks as though it is drawing ever closer. Such a partnership is not unheard of in British politics. Indeed, in 2010 the Conservative party formed a coalition government with the Liberal Democrats to form a ruling majority. However, the proposed deal with the 10-seat regional party, fifth-largest in the U.K., has provoked particular consternation, with critics suggesting that it could undermine British democracy and threaten disrupting the hard-fought Northern Ireland peace process. So, just why is it so controversial?

Who are the DUP?

This was the question many asked when the Conservative party indicated on the morning of the election result that it would seek to strike a deal with the DUP to prop up the government after losing a number of parliamentary seats in June 6's snap general election. Representing centre-right to right-wing values, the protestant party is the largest in Northern Ireland by number of seats but only represents constituencies within Northern Ireland.

How will a DUP deal impact the U.K.?

If May's Conservatives succeed in striking a 'confidence and supply deal', which will grant them backing in key parliamentary votes, they will have to agree to certain DUP demands. The DUP hasn't yet clarified what these demands will be. But, whether linked to public spending, agriculture or infrastructure, they will likely involve increased spending, which would give Northern Ireland a distinct advantage over the rest of the U.K.

Why is this concerning for Northern Irish politics?

Though Northern Ireland could be set to benefit financially from close ties to Westminster, critics argue that these ties could threaten to undermine hard-fought political cohesion in the country. Under the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the British government is supposed to be an impartial broker on any disagreements within Northern Ireland's devolved  and currently suspended  parliament, the Northern Ireland Assembly.

The Good Friday Agreement explained

The Good Friday Agreement is generally considered the major turning point in establishing peace within Northern Ireland.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair And His Irish Counterpart Bertie Ahern Present A Joint British-Irish Blueprint For Implementation Of The Good Friday Agreement At Stormont Castle In Belfast June 2, 1999. Sean Gallup | Getty Images

It refers to two agreements, both signed on Good Friday 1998, which helped form Northern Ireland's current devolved system of government at Stormont, Belfast. This allows for power-sharing between Northern Ireland's two largest parties and largely brought about the end of Northern Ireland's 30-year Troubles.

What were the Troubles?

The Troubles refer to three decades of sectarian conflict within Northern Ireland, which took place between the late-1960s and the late 1990s. The conflict was largely political and nationalistic, centring on the constitutional status of Ireland. Unionists, who were predominantly protestant, fought to remain part of the U.K., while Republicans, largely Catholics, wanted to join a united Ireland. Thirty years of fighting ensued between Unionist and Republican paramilitaries, state security and political activists. The conflict largely occurred within Northern Ireland, though spread to the Republic of Ireland, the U.K. and parts of Europe, and claimed the lives of thousands of civilians.

Why is the North Ireland Assembly suspended?

Power-sharing in the Northern Irish Assembly has been suspended since January amid a political stalemate between the member parties. These include unionists the DUP; nationalists Sinn Fein; the Social Democratic and Labour Party; the Ulster Unionist Party; and the Alliance party.

The Stormont Parliament Building Flying The Queen's Royal Standard Flag To Signify Her Presence There Tim Graham | Getty Images

The party have until June 29 to agree to return to power-sharing. Under the Good Friday Agreement, the British government has a duty to facilitate these talks and help parties return to power sharing. If the parties cannot agree, they will be forced to return to direct rule under the U.K. government.

What are politicians doing?

May met with the leaders of Northern Ireland's main political parties on Thursday to discuss restoring devolution at Stormont. However, critics have argued that the proposed deal will compromise the government's ability to remain impartial in these talks.

Sinn Fein Northern leader Michelle O'Neill (L) and Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams (R) Charles McQuillan | Getty Images
Wisonsin Case Could Be Heard This Fall

The Supreme Court agreed this morning to take a new look at partisan gerrymandering, accepting a Wisconsin case in which a three-judge lower court ruled that Republican legislators unfairly drew State Assembly districts that work to elect GOP candidates.

Gill v. Whitford will be considered in the high courts next term, beginning in October.

For too long, the important task of redistricting has resembled a back-alley brawl: no rules, no referees, and no holds barred, said Dan Vicuna, Common Cause National Redistricting Manager. Technology has made it easier than ever for self-interested legislators to manipulate districts for political advantage, so it is essential that courts step in to protect voters fundamental constitutional rights.

The Wisconsin case invites the high court to set a standard for how aggressively lawmakers can manipulate district boundaries to create a political advantage for a particular party. The justices have repeatedly struck down redistricting plans crafted to shut out racial minorities but have balked at setting limits on partisan gerrymandering.

Common Cause is the lead plaintiff in a similar case, Common Cause v. Rucho, that was scheduled for trial in North Carolina next week but has been delayed; a new date has not been set.

###
International Day of Yoga a big hit in Singapore

More than 8,000 registered participants observed the third International Day of Yoga at 70 locations across Singapore on June 19, 2017. There were over 85 yoga sessions held that morning, with the help of local volunteer groups.

These yoga enthusiasts were joined by Singaporean leaders, envoys of Cambodia and Israel.



Minister of Parliament Gan Thiam Poh, who is the Guest of Honour, noted the benefits of doing yoga, and said, "Yoga is a very good sport and is popular among Singaporeans all age groups."



The United Nations International Day of Yoga is held on June 21 every year, but it was celebrated on June 19 in Singapore this year.

Cambodian and Israeli Ambassadors Ngoun Sokveng and Yael Rubinstein, together with Indian High Commissioner Jawed Ashraf joined in the hour-long yoga session at the National Stadium pavilion. Watch the opening ceremony here:

Addressing the crowd at an event hosted by the High Commission of India at the National Stadium, the High Commissioner said that with 8,000 registered participants taking part in yoga in 70 locations around the island, "that must be the highest density of yoga venues anywhere in the world" with one venue per 10 square kilometers.

At the event, Gan and Ashraf also launched journalist Kavita Chandran's book 'The Head That Won't Stand: A Woman's Journey of Letting Go With Yoga."

According to the Indian High Commission in Singapore, Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam also attended the yoga event at his constituency of Nee Soon that morning.

Take a peek at what went down at the Queenstown campus of Global Indian International School (GIIS):

Here are some moments captured from various yoga sessions across the island.

IDY session held at Sports Hub library. Photo courtesy: India High Commission of Singapore Facebook

IDY session held at the beautiful Gardens by The Bay. Photo courtesy: India High Commission of Singapore Facebook

Look at the fresh young faces at IDY at GIIS' Queenstown campus! Photo courtesy: Global Indian International School (GIIS), Queenstown

IDY session at Yuhua Community Centre. Photo courtesy: Huan Xing from RV Photography Club and Brenda from Pioneer Junior College
Middle East crisis: Bahrain orders Qatar soldiers to leave its territory

The ongoing diplomatic crisis in the Middle East does not seem to be ebbing as Bahrain has ordered Qatari troops to leave its territory, a source said.

Bahrain has ordered Qatari troops to leave its territory. Photo courtesy: virtuvita

The Qatari soldiers, part of the US Naval Forces Central Command (Navcent) which is headquartered in Bahrain, had been asked to leave the coalition and may depart soon, the source said. These troops form part of a coalition fighting ISIS.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source added, The Bahrainis told the US general in command of the base that Qatari soldiers must leave. They are still on the base but likely to leave within the next two days.

The development has taken place as the Middle East region faces the biggest diplomatic crisis in the recent past as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain have suspended ties over Qatar's funding of extremists.

Qatar has deployed troops with Navcent since 2014. Navcent is part of the US Central Command whose area of operation includes the Middle East and Asia.



As part of their operations, numerous air strikes against IS targets in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan have been conducted from Qatar's Al Udeid, the largest US base in the region.
Singapore participates in multilateral air combat exercise in Canada

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is participating in Exercise Maple Flag  a large-scale multilateral air combat exercise conducted at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada, hosted by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) from June 12 to 23.

Photo courtesy: gov.sg

The participants this year include more than 60 aircraft and about 2000 personnel from Canada, France, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The RSAF is participating in the exercise with eight F-16C/D fighter aircraft and about 100 personnel from its Peace Carvin (PC) II detachment in Arizona, US. The RSAF team will operate with the other air forces and pit their capabilities against live and simulated threats using the latest in tactics, weaponry and technology. The large airspace and realistic threat environment in the exercise provide valuable training for the RSAF to hone their air-to-air and air-to-surface competencies. As part of the exercise, the RSAF also participated in the RCAF Open Day with an F-16 on static display yesterday.

Photo courtesy: gov.sg

Highlighting the value of RSAFs participation in this years exercise, Lieutenant-Colonel (LTC) Stanley Meng Huat Selva, the RSAF Detachment Commander for Exercise Maple Flag, shared that, Exercise Maple Flag gives the RSAF an opportunity to strengthen our operational capabilities in a realistic and challenging environment. The complexity of the exercise allows our team of air and ground crew to hone our combat skills while benchmarking ourselves against other advanced air forces. In having to work together with other air forces in this exercise, the interoperability is also enhanced.

Photo courtesy: gov.sg

The RCAF first hosted Exercise Maple Flag in 1978. Over the years, the exercise has grown in scope and complexity, as well as transformed in response to the existing security environment and continues to serve to enhance mutual understanding and build bonds among the participating air forces.
Less than a month ago, Theresa May spoke outside Downing Street, in the wake of a terror attack  the second of the general election campaign. Responding to the assaults by terrorists on London Bridge and Borough Market, in which eight people were killed and 48 injured, she said that we cannot and must not pretend that things can continue as they are. Things need to change, and they need to change in four important ways.

While we have made significant progress in recent years, there is  to be frank  far too much tolerance of extremism in our country, she continued. So we need to become far more robust in identifying it and stamping it out  across the public sector and across society. That will require some difficult and often embarrassing conversations, but the whole of our country needs to come together to take on this extremismit is time to say that enough is enough.

Yesterday, the annual Al Quds Day march took place in London, as usual  only a few miles away from London Bridge. The flags of a terrorist organsation, Hezbollah, were brandished as usual. Speakers pushed anti-semitic tropes, as usual  with one suggesting that Zionists caused the Grenfell Tower fire: no prizes for guessing what Zionists might be a code for. Ed Husain claimed on Twitter that others were more direct, relaying  Khaibar Yahud anti-Jew slogans.

Ministers would bar a march by supporters of ISIS or Al Qaeda. They justify this annual pro-Hezbollah extravaganza by arguing that there is a distinction between Hezbollahs military wing, which is proscribed in Britain, and its political wing which is not. This is a distinction without a difference, put in place largely to justify dealings with the organisation in Lebanon, where it moves in and out of participation in government. The organisations flag cuts to the chase: it shows the first letter of Allah reaching up to grasp a stylised assault rifle.

Three points follow.

First, it is obviously legitimate in itself to protest and march publicly against Israel, and most people do so without simultaneously displaying the flags of proscribed organisations. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign manages its events without masterminding demonstrations of support for Hamas or Hezbollah. It is noticable that it does not appear on the list of bodies supporting yesterdays event. (The Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which did, is a seperate organisation.)

Second, it may fall short of incitment to claim that Zionists were responsible for the Grenfell Tower fire, and it may also be that the concept of hate incidents is dubious. But while the latter remains on the statute book, it must be applied properly by the police. A hate incident, we read, is any incident which the victim, or anyone else, thinks is based on someones prejudice towards them because of their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or because they are transgender. There are claims that the police refused to register hate crimes yesterday.

Third, we return to the Prime Ministers assertion that we cannot and must not pretend that things can continue as they are. But things continuing as they are is exactly the position in this case. Some countries maintain the fiction that Hezbollah can somehow be partitioned into terrorist and non-terrorist wings. Others recognise that this is indeed a fairytale, and recognise reality by proscribing Hezbollah altogether. The Prime Minister refuses to move from the first camp to the second. She says Enough is Enough, but delivers more of the same.

May piled up proposals in her post-London Bridge statement. She pledged a counter-terror review, longer sentences if necessary, and depriving extremists of safe spaces. But yesterday, a swathe of central London, starting at Duchess Street and ending at Grosvenor Square, seems to have been transformed into a very safe space indeed, in a city that continues to feel the force of terror.

There is no good reason why this pro-Hezbollah jamboree should be permitted at all. But if it is to be, those displaying terrorist emblems or pushing anti-semitic slogans should be arrested and charged. Until or unless this happens, why should anyone take the Prime Minister seriously?
CORNWALL, Ontario  Daniel Quigley, 31, of Cornwall was arrested on June 16, 2017 and charged with break and enter and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

It is alleged on June 16, 2017 the man forced his way into a Belmont Street residence, removed property that did not belong to him and fled the area. Police were contacted and located the man a short distance away. He was taken into custody and found to be in possession of a knife. He was charged accordingly and released to appear in court at a later date.

THEFT UNDER $5000, BREACH

CORNWALL, Ontario  Jeff Novick, 43, of Monkland was arrested on June 16, 2017 and charged with theft under $5, 000 and breach of two probation orders for failing to keep the peace. It is alleged on June 16, 2017 the man entered a Ninth Street store, selected various items making no attempt to pay for the items as he left the store. He was stopped by the Loss Prevention Officer and police were contacted. The man was taken into custody, charged accordingly and released to appear in court on July 20, 2017.

FRAUD

CORNWALL, Ontario  Jennie Roy, 34, of Cornwall was arrested on June 16, 2017 and charged the following:

use forged documents

theft from mail sent by post

possession of stolen property

fraud under $5, 000.00

It is alleged on March 31, 2017 the woman deposited someone elses cheque and police were contacted to investigate. On June 16, 2017 the woman attended police headquarters to deal with the matter. She was taken into custody, charged accordingly and released to appear on July 20, 2017.
Close

A University of Arizona study suggests that bouldering, a kind of rock climbing, may also be used to effectively treat symptoms of depression, along with building endurance and reducing stress.

The authors of the study led a team of more than 100 test subjects at a bouldering convention in Germany where some hospitals have begun using rock climbing as a therapeutic treatment.

Bouldering involves climbing rocks of a moderate height without the use of ropes or a harness. Because of the size of the walls, it is a good way to start climbing or for experienced climbers to practice difficult moves.

A research team divided participants into two groups. One began bouldering immediately, and the second had to wait to start bouldering. Each participant bouldered for three hours a week over the course of eight weeks. The research team then measured the depression of each participant using Beck's Depression Inventory (a psychodynamic self-reporting inventory) and Symptom Checklist 90 (a questionnaire published by Pearson).

The group that began bouldering immediately had improved Beck's Depression scores by 6.27 points, while the waitlisted group's improved by only 1.4 points.

"Bouldering, in many ways, is a positive physical activity...there are different routes for your physical activity level, and there's a social aspect along with the feeling of immediate accomplishment when bouldering," said Stelzer.

During the intervention, participants were also taught to cultivate positive social interactions and learned meditation and mindfulness to help manage their symptoms. Stelzer said bouldering in particular is especially beneficial for the treatment of depression because it boosts self-esteem, has a social component, and has strong mental components. Maybe most importantly, "you have to focus on not falling," Stelzer said. It also builds muscle and endurance while reducing stress.

Luttenberger, a psychometrics expert, said, "Patients enjoyed the bouldering sessions and told us that they benefited greatly. Since rumination is one of the biggest problems for depressed individuals, we had the idea that bouldering could be a good intervention for that."

Given the results of the study, the team believes bouldering may be used in conjunction with traditional care and treatment for clinical depression. The team is working to develop a manual about integrating bouldering and psychotherapeutic interventions for groups. But of course, if you don't like bouldering, Luttenberger says, "I'd always encourage patients to do the sport they like."

See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
Internet of things News

Security Vendor Comodo Hires Former Symantec Veteran To Spearhead IoT Practice

Lindsey O'Donnell

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Comodo has hired Damon Kachur, a former Symantec and Verisign veteran, to lead the charge in the security company's Internet of Things strategy.

"The connected world has exploded, especially in the last few years," said Kachur, now head of IoT solutions at Comodo. "It's our job to educate customers about the security risks behind these IoT devices  what they're plugging into the internet and what their devices are doing in terms of sharing information."

Kachur told CRN he hopes to build out Comodo's IoT division as the company makes more investments in technology innovations to keep up with the rapid growth required to address IoT, as well as in its channel partner programs.

[Related: Solution Providers Specializing In Building Automation Use Security To Start Conversations About IoT]

The exec has a history of focusing on IoT PKI ecosystems and threat intelligence for mobile and fixed-line networks. He was most recently with Germany-based mobile security company Gieseke & Devrient, and before that with Symantec, where he managed the issuance of more than 1.5 billion PKI digital certificates.

Comodo has increased its investments into securing connected devices through building up its portfolio of mutual-authentication solutions for IoT devices and networks.

The company is issuing device certificates that can protect devices from the moment they are manufactured until they are pulled offline, said Kachur. Kachur said he has worked with various industry standards groups and said he hopes to leverage these security working groups at Comodo.

"We want to provide an end-to-end device management service for the device's entire span  from the point it has been manufactured to the end of the lifespan," said Kachur. "We want to proactively help secure devices in the ecosystem by providing that umbrella coverage where we can quickly reach, patch, and update those devices as they come online."

Clifton, N.J.-based Comodo has hired eight former Symantec and Verisign executives in the past week for its worldwide channel and global business development initiatives, as the company hopes to continue to build out its channel around both IoT security and its flagship managed security service, Comodo cWatch Web.

The company last year introduced the Comodo Certificate Manager, a full-lifecycle digital certificate management platform that helps enterprises can better manage their IoT devices.

Security vulnerabilities in IoT devices were underscored in October when a DDoS attack  which was launched through IoT devices including webcams, routers and video recorders  overwhelmed servers at Dynamic Network Services, taking down up to 1,200 websites. The frequency of DDoS attacks increased in 2016 due in part to IoT botnets, according to information service provider Neustar. The Sterling, Va.-based company said it mitigated 40 percent more DDoS attacks from January through November compared with the same span last year.

Kachur stressed that Comodo will continue to invest in IoT through its partners, new security solutions, and acquisitions.

"By combining recent innovations and current Comodo technologies along with strategic technology partnerships, Comodos platform will play a vital role in the health and security of a device for the entirety of its lifespan," he said. "Working together, Comodo and our partners can remove these vulnerabilities by providing a safe and healthy IoT ecosystem.
An Expanding IaaS Field?

In recent years, the global public Infrastructure-as-a-Service market has both grown rapidly, and seen the number of prominent vendors decrease.

That dynamic was reflected in the past few Gartner Magic Quadrants for IaaS, which saw the research company consistently shed vendors from its eagerly anticipated rankings. But Gartner's 2017 report, released Thursday, bucked that trend, evaluating four more companies than the previous year's.

Two of those newcomers -- Interoute and Joyent -- made comebacks to the list after having fallen off in 2016. And two others -- Alibaba Cloud and Oracle -- are new players that have the technical talent, funding and market reach to make their presence felt in the market.

The only vendor dropped in 2017 from the previous year's Magic Quadrant was VMware, which recently sold off the remnants of its vCloud Air public cloud to European provider OVH.

While several companies made moves, the Leaders Quadrant in the 2017 report once again only contained two companies -- dominant industry kingpin Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft Azure. Google just came up short from busting into that category.
Researcher Chris Vickery has discovered nearly 200 million voter records in an unsecured Amazon S3 bucket maintained by Deep Root Analytics (DRA), a big data analytics firm that helps advertisers identify audiences for political ads.

The data was discovered on June 12, and secured two days later after Vickery reported the incident to federal regulators.

Salted Hash has been down this road before with Vickery, who is now a Cyber Risk Analyst for UpGuard. In 2015, Vickery discovered 191 million voter records being stored in an unsecured database.

At the time, determining who was responsible for the exposed database was nearly impossible, as everyone contacted denied any association. The records, sourced form a Nation Builder data set, were never officially claimed.

Now, with his most recent discovery, Vickery has once again highlighted the risk surrounding big data analytics and cloud storage. The records discovered on June 12 are a complete voter file. UpGuard says the records were compiled by DRA and at least two other contractors, Target Point Consulting Inc. and Data Trust.

Voter information, aside from a few elements protected by law, are public record. Sometimes access to this data can be expensive, other times it's freely available. Yet, the golden rule tends to be that the information can't be used for commercial purposes.

However, there are laws in some states that affect the type of data discovered this month. California restricts voter information to political purposes only, and the information may not be made available to people outside of the U.S. South Dakota addresses repositories like this directly, stating that voter information "may not be placed for unrestricted access on the internet."

In 2015, Data Trust denied any connection to the exposed records discovered by Vickery. This time however, folder within the DRA S3 bucket ("data_trust") contains a massive collection of personal information representing between 150 to 198 million potential voters. Salted Hash has seen an example voter record, and many of the profile fields are similar to those from two years ago.

Using an internal "RNC ID"  each voter in the database can be uniquely identified and associated with the logged data points.

Each record contains the voter's first and last name, home and mailing address, date of birth, phone number, party affiliation, ethnicity, voter registration data, and a flag should the person appear on the federal Do-Not-Call registry. However, the voter file also includes fields for modeled ethnicity and modeled religion, suggesting the usage of big data to predict answers when voters didn't offer such details directly, explained UpGuard's Dan O'Sullivan in a blog post.

Overall, the collection discovered by Vickery contains information on 2008, 2012, and 2016. However, the 2016 records only contained details on voters in Ohio and Florida.

Another folder in the S3 bucket Vickery discovered is from Target Point. The records in this data set used the same "RNC ID" and had update timestamps as recent as January 2017. According to O'Sullivan, the records "provide a rare glimpse in to a systematic large-scale analytics operation."

"The result is a database of frightening scope and intrusiveness into the modeled personal and political preferences of most of the country  adding up in total to an unsecured political treasure trove of data which was free to download online," O'Sullivan added.

Many of the Target Point records were focused on post-election data, conducted around President Trump's inauguration earlier this year. For example, one 50 GB file contained scores for potential voters, signifying their potential to support a given policy, such as President Trump's foreign policy stance of "America First", or how concerned they'll be with auto manufacturing as an issue.

Same Risk, Different Year:

This is the same risk from two-years ago.

Using the "RNC ID" in this most recent discovery it is possible to map a voter to a geographic location, or political topic or stance. The data contained in the voter profiles, compiled with both direct information and data science, is astonishingly accurate too.

Salted Hash has reached out to DRA for comment, but prior to the discovery by Vickery, it isn't clear if anyone else accessed this data. As such, if someone malicious discovered the records first, the socially-based attack vectors commonly seen in general Phishing and more serious targeted attacks can be seriously enhanced with this type of information.

Another issue is the usage of Amazon as a whole. The platform offered by Amazon is a boon to organizations both large and small. However, organizations are still responsible for the security of their own accounts.

Amazon offers the tools and the guidance to help secure things, but it's up to the organization to follow the suggestions and use the tools properly. It isn't clear how the DRA data ended up in the public, but there's something to be said about the need for constant internal checks against information leaks.

Especially if said information is critical to your organization.

Update:

Deep Root Analytics issued a statement about Vickery's discovery. Their statement is printed below in full:

"Deep Root Analytics has become aware that a number of files within our online storage system were accessed without our knowledge. Deep Root Analytics builds voter models to help enhance advertiser understanding of TV viewership. The data accessed was not built for or used by any specific client. It is our proprietary analysis to help inform local television ad buying. The data that was accessed was, to the best of our knowledge this proprietary information as well as voter data that is publicly available and readily provided by state government offices. Since this event has come to our attention, we have updated the access settings and put protocols in place to prevent further access. We take full responsibility for this situation. Deep Root Analytics maintains industry standard security protocols. We built our systems in keeping with these protocols and had last evaluated and updated our security settings on June 1, 2017. We are conducting an internal review and have retained cyber security firm Stroz Friedberg to conduct a thorough investigation. Through this process, which is currently underway, we have learned that access was gained through a recent change in asset access settings since June 1. We accept full responsibility, will continue with our investigation, and based on the information we have gathered thus far, we do not believe that our systems have been hacked."

This story was also covered by Gizmodo and ZDNet.
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DANBURY - City youths enrolled in an employment training program that was set to begin in July have been told they are out of a job this summer.

The state has cut the Connecticut Youth Employment Program, which in Danbury was set to help 38 youths from needy families learn job skills and earn a summer income by working minimum-wage jobs during the break.

That was dismaying news for Joseph Dobbins, the program director at Danbury Youth Services, which runs the program for the city.

What really broke my heart was to have to call all these families who were counting on this program and have them tell me, Theyre going to be on the streets if they arent working, and My daughter was counting on that money - whats she going to do now?  Dobbins said. This program doesnt just provide great work experience, but provides money to buy new school clothes or to save for college.

The $60,000 cut by the state last week was earmarked for job training, employment support services and wages.

It was unclear Monday whether DYS could arrange an alternative for youth in the program. Dobbins said the agency might be able to provide several job workshops for the youths with a smaller grant from a separate source, although it would not replicate all the summer job programs benefits.

The programs intent is to have the kids work 20 hours a week for six weeks at minimum wage, Dobbins said. We wont be able to provide that.

The city might be able to help bridge the gap if the summer jobs program was the only cut the state was making, Mayor Mark Boughton said.

I could go to the City Council for the $60,000, but this is about a philosophy that we cannot absorb every program that the state cuts, said Boughton, a likely GOP candidate for governor in 2018. There are going to be many, many more of these; what do we do for the next one, and the one after that?

The state government faces a $5 billion budget deficit over the next two years. The state legislature ended its session on June 7 without agreeing on a spending plan for the new budget year that begins July 1. Legislators are expected return for a special budget session.

The state has already announced that it will close an office that helps 300 people from greater Danbury manage mental health and addiction issues and privatize those services.

The closing of the Danbury branch of the Western Connecticut Mental Health Network is expected to save the state $1 million.

Longtime Democratic state lawmaker Bob Godfrey opposed the move because it was trading short-term savings for long-term accountability.

Dobbins said he had the same concern about losing the summer job program.

Our employers get such good quality work that five or six or seven of our youth go on to get part-time jobs after the program is over, Dobbins said. At this point all we can do is raise our voices to the state.

Boughton agreed.

Its unfortunate, and I feel bad, Boughton said. But the best thing people can do is call their state legislators.

rryser@newstimes.com; 203-731-3342
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BRIDGEPORT  Rehabilitating and reopening Main Streets long-dormant Majestic and Poli Palace theaters and the old Savoy Hotel would be accomplishment enough.

But Exact Capital Group, the Manhattan-based real estate developer that Mayor Joe Ganim has chosen to revitalize the historic structures at the northern gateway to downtown, does not want to stop there.

The companys plans include two 18-story residential towers on public land across the street plus another 10-story residential building on another city-owned slice along Housatonic Avenue  the former Dolans Bar and Grill.

Eighteen floors would make Exacts development the tallest downtown.

An impressed Economic Development Director Thomas Gill called the vision mind boggling.

If youre gonna do it, do it big, said Craig Livingston, Exacts managing partner. Eighteen stories is not really such a big building where we come from.

Livingston was in town Monday to, with Ganim, Gill and most of the mayors top aides  even the police and fire chiefs  tout the $400 million-plus investment that Exact wants to make in Connecticuts largest city. They gathered outside of the theaters, where the only current construction activity is the ants building their hills in sidewalk cracks.

Ganim  who is exploring a run for governor in 2018 while simultaneously raising cash for a 2019 re-election bid  called it, The most exciting development project in Bridgeport and, I daresay, anywhere in Connecticut.

It was talk typical of such announcements. Lots of promises and back-slapping, echoing words spoken over the years at various building sites around the city

Councilman John Olson, who was on hand, said in his experience sometimes the plans become a reality, sometimes not. He hoped the revival of the theaters and the Savoy will be among the former.

This sounds very good. Sounds like a reputable thing. We shall see, Olson said, adding: We gotta give Ganim credit. I dont care if its good for his statewide campaign. Ive been here since 66. Nobody has ever come up with an idea for this place.

Ganim is pushing Olson and his 19 council colleagues to review and approve a memorandum of understanding with Exact in 30 days, arguing the company has committed to begin construction a year later.

That memorandum outlines a three phase development. First would come the renovation and reopening of the 2,200 seat Majestic Theater for local arts groups; turning the Poli Palace into a banquet ballroom with a family friendly indoor recreation venue or indoor fun park and a sorely needed downtown gym; and reopening the Savoy and doubling its existing 100 rooms for guests.

Phase two includes the two 18 story residential towers with a total of 340 mixed income apartments, ground floor retail and below ground parking. Then Exact would wrap up with the 10-floor, 110 apartment building.

Livingston said if the council approves the deal, Bridgeport would be Exacts second theater renovation. The company is currently working on the Victoria Theater on 125th St. in Harlem.

Livingston was not concerned that there would be a glut in the hotel market. The Holiday Inn is just a few blocks away and a hotel is also planned for the waterfront Steel Point redevelopment on the other side of I-95.

Councilman Scott Burns, who also attended Mondays event, said of the aggressive approval timeline: If they have their financing lined up and we know everything we need to know, sure, they can get their shovels in the ground in 12 months.

Where the $400-plus million to get all three phases built will come from was not quite clear, though Ganim in a brief interview insisted it will not be in the form of local property tax breaks  something he has criticized in the past.

I dont think theres any talk of a property tax deal, Ganim said.

Downtown developer Phil Kuchma, who has revitalized much of Fairfield Avenue, stood quietly and listened to Ganim and Livingston. Kuchma afterward said he welcomed the news, but questioned whether a slimmed-down city staff can move quickly enough on all of the paperwork necessary.

To be in the ground in a year is a lot of work, Kuchma said. The city needs to staff up.
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NORWALK  Rick Scott is the seemingly last person Dannel P. Malloy would want as a reference.

But Floridas Republican governor said Monday that his Democratic rival from Connecticut has been an effective emissary for the Sunshine State in luring more than just snowbirds.

Swooping into Fairfield Countys Gold Coast for the second time in two years, Scott told a business roundtable group at the Norwalk Inn & Conference Center that Malloys tax-and-spend policies are crippling the state he once called home.

He contrasted them to Florida, a right-to-work state with no state income tax, which Scott said has wrested $8 billion in net adjusted gross income from Connecticut since the Nutmeg State adopted an income tax in 1991.

Scott made it no secret why he was here: hes trying to poach companies and residents forlorn over taxes, a $5 billion budget deficit and an unpopular governor who isnt seeking re-election. After all, Connecticut already lost the headquarters of General Electric and Aetna.

I love Malloy, Scott said. I wish he could stay governor forever. Governor Malloy has basically been a great recruiter for us.

Malloy dismissed Scotts latest raid attempt as a political stunt, saying the real reason for Scotts visit is that his term-limited rival was here to raise money for a U.S. Senate run.

Florida, Malloy said, isnt all that its cracked up to be. Connecticuts workforce and public schools are superior to Floridas, said Malloy, who pointed out that Sikorsky spurned Scott to build heavy-lift helicopters in its home state of Connecticut.

They have lots of problems, Malloy said outside Asnuntuck Community College in Enfield. Theyre not the best readers in the country. They are the subject of devastating storms.

Three GOP state legislators joined the roundtable  state Reps. Gail Lavielle, of Wilton, and Fred Camillo, of Greenwich; and state Sen. Toni Boucher of Wilton. Gubernatorial hopeful Dave Walker, of Bridgeport, the former U.S. comptroller general under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, also participated.

Oh, governor, youre enticing me, said Boucher, who, like Walker, has formed an exploratory committee for statewide office.

Democrats skewered Republican lawmakers for cozying up to Floridas governor, saying it was tantamount to rooting for the failure of Connecticut.

I think that is absolutely outrageous that my Republican colleague would attend a function by an out-of-state governor who is trying to poach jobs from Connecticut, said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, D-Norwalk. You dont have to be a political genius to make your state look good when your year-round temperature is 82 degrees, you have over 100 million visitors and you have a famous mouse.

Republicans bristled at the allegations they were somehow being traitorous.

They should be here, Camillo said of Democrats. Maybe they would learn a thing or two.

Scott, a former venture capitalist and one-time Greenwich resident, isnt the first governor to target Connecticut.

In 2013, then-Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who is now Energy Secretary for Donald Trump, tried wooing gun manufacturers and financial services to the Lone Star. In 2015, Indiana took out a full-page ad in the Wall Street Journal touting its business climate as being better than Connecticuts. Vice President Mike Pence was governor of the Hoosier State at the time.

My pitch is you should give up, capitulate and come move to Florida, said Scott, who handed out a chart comparing taxes and the business climate in both states.

Malloy, who is the head of the Democratic Governors Association, brought up a $1.7 billion Medicare fraud fine paid by Columbia/HCA when Scott was CEO of the health care giant.

This is the guy who is the unindicted co-conspirator in the largest federal fraud case in American history, Malloy said. I hope hes learned from his prior mistakes.

Bart Shuldman, CEO of Hamden-based printer manufacturer TransAct Technologies and a Westport resident, organized the event and said it wasnt meant to be political. The climate in Connecticut has gotten so bad, he said, that Malloys GOP predecessor, M. Jodi Rell, changed her residence to Florida.

Governor Rell left, Shuldman said. She went to Florida. Thanks, governor. Thats an insult.

Among those in the audience of about 20 business executives was Bill Shoaf, a certified financial planner for Wells Fargo who left Fairfield for Naples, Fla., 10 months ago.

It was time, said Shoaf, who is holding domicile seminars for others considering a change of residency.

In 2012, ESL Investments, the hedge fund of Sears investor Edward Lampert, abandoned Greenwich, taking its $9 billion in assets to Miami.

Scott referred to another hedge fund mogul Monday, Paul Tudor Jones, who in 2015 bought a $71 million Palm Beach, Fla., estate.

Paul Tudor Jones didnt move up here, Scott said. He moved to Florida.

When asked if Jones, founder of Greenwich-based Tudor Investment Corp., had switched his residency, Scott said to ask Paul. Jones representatives have not disputed previous published reports about his residency changing. Tudor Group has an office in Palm Beach.

nvigdor@hearstmediact.com; 203-625-4436; http://twitter.com/gettinviggy
Autumn Driscoll / Hearst Connecticut Media

DERBY  The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, 300 Seymour Ave., Suite 206 in Derby, will host two informational sessions about opportunities for education assistance through the Health CareeRx Academy.

The seminars will be Monday, June 26 at 6 p.m. and Wednesday, June 28 at 1 p.m. at the school. The seminars are free and open to the public.
Contributed photo

FAIRFIELD  A call about two men looking into parked cars Sunday night led to the discovery of a high-capacity firearms magazine.

Police were called to the area of Brooklawn Avenue, near Spooner Avenue, just before 8 p.m. They found two men there and discovered rifle ammunition, the high-capacity magazine, and other firearms parts in a backpack carried by Naim Asad Muhammad, 18.
Architecture buffs won't be bored in southwestern Connecticut. The market is full of a diverse range of homes for sale ranging from classic New England Colonials to Mediterranean and Asian-inspired houses.

Colonial

The Sheffield House, 4,787-square-foot Colonial at 72 Willow St. Fairfield's Southport section, has a rich history. According to town records, it was built in 1796 by Paul King Sheffield, a Stonington native who engaged in privateering during the Revolutionary War.

According to the book "The History of Fairfield, Fairfield County Connecticut From 1700 to 1800," by Elizabeth Hubbell Schenk, the Willow Street house was the childhood home of Sheffield's son, Joseph Earl Sheffield, who served in the Coast Guard at the age of 12, then went on to "raise himself to honor, wealth and distinction."

The web site Historic Buildings of Connecticut is a bit more specific about Joseph Sheffield, whom it said grew up to be a wealthy railroad magnate and philanthropist. He eventually moved to New Haven and gave Yale University a building and a $130,000 endowment for its scientific school. The school was renamed the Sheffield Scientific School in 1861.

Victorian

A Victorian style house in Norwalk, built in 1870 was recently refurbished by Will and Michelle Tiani.

The Tianis restored picture moldings, stripped away layers of paint from rounded oak doors and tore out linoleum that covered wide-planked wooden floors. They left the attic and the basement to be restored at a later date, with plans to turn the attic into a master suite in a few years. For now, they have two floors of fully renovated and restored living space. Last week, they put on the finishing touches  a fresh paint job for the exterior to match the new wraparound porch.

The finished product is a bright, open house with a modern kitchen, renovated bathrooms and updated light fixtures that's still clearly from another century.

Mid-Century Modern

The 15-acre estate at 432 Frogtown Road is poetic in its serenity and natural beauty. Visitors are mesmerized by the sound of the unseen falling water as they exit their vehicles to approach the 6,917-square-foot residence before them.

The modern structure fits so well into the landscape that it doesn't quite come into focus at first sight. It takes a moment for the eyes to adjust to the spectacular setting and unique residence, and when the house finally comes clearly into view it's apparent that this is something special.

This is a Frank Lloyd Wright house, designed and built in 1955 of standard concrete block, glass, and wood which, in Wright's hands, are elevated to architectural poetry. It was given a classic hemicycle design by the renowned architect, who built the house for Joyce and John Rayward.

Asian

Feng shui, the ancient Chinese philosophy of living in harmony with one's environment, is often associated with home decor and the special arrangement of furniture. Few people realize the practice can also relate to the design of a house and its siting on a property.

Every element of the unique custom contemporary house at 297 Old Norwalk Road in New Canaan was carefully considered using feng shui principles from its placement on its 2.07-acre level and gently sloping property to the placement of its many tall windows throughout the house, which is an architectural effort to organically integrate the home with its natural surroundings. The property contains a water feature on the front lawn over which there is a foot bridge. In the feng shui practice water is said to bring prosperity.

This Asian-inspired dwelling was built in 2016 by John Mastera + Associates Architects, and its two-tiered cantilevered roof line gives it the appearance of a modern-day pagoda. It has more than 5,300 square feet of living space including 700 square feet in the finished, walk-out lower level; every square inch thoughtfully designed.

Mediterranean

The 2,857 square-foot Mediterranean house in Westport, listed at almost $3.5 million, is the brainchild and, until recently, the home of award-winning local builder Don Miro. Miro has been in the business roughly 30 years and has built houses throughout Fairfield County, ranging in style from farmhouses to cottages to classic Colonials. He's received multiple HOBI awards, given by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut, as well as several Westport Preservation Awards.

Miro said his goal with each design is to provide something unique, but classical. "I take a lot of pride in designing and building timeless homes," he said.

When he's done his job well, Miro said, it's impossible to tell if one of his homes was built 100 years ago or one year ago. That's certainly true of his own home on Sterling Drive. Built in 2002, the house looks like it could be brand new, or a recently renovated classic. It's designed in the style of a Mediterranean villa, with a clay tile roof, an oak front door and meticulous landscaping.
STORY LINK GBP EUR Exchange Rate Tight as Brexit Talks Begin

Pound Rises on Strong Start to Brexit Talks

Obviously this is the first day of the talks on Brexit and I think the most important thing is we should all start. Therell be lots of discussions about the nature of the deal we are going to do, but I think we should also enter on the discussion about money and so forth. I think the most important think about us now is for us to look to the horizon. [To] the deep and special partnership that we want to build with our friends.

Euro Uncertainty Persists after Record Low Turnout for French Election

[Macron] now has his majority, beyond all his hopes. Undoubtedly that will make his task easier, but it'll also increase expectation.

What Macron is doing is appealing to the right wing of the Socialists and also to the centre right; that's really about creating something new. Normally, you don't put together these two sides.

Pound to Euro Forecast: GBP could Break Stalemate on UK Trade Deficit Reduction

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The Pounds latest appreciation against the Euro comes on the first day of full Brexit talks.The main cause of a Pound to Euro rise today has been the news that Brexit negotiations have finally begun.The official meeting between David Davis from the UK and Michel Barnier from the EU has come nearly a year after the initial Brexit vote, but is still being welcomed by traders.Offering a positive outlook has been UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson;On the one hand, this news has been beneficial, as it shows that the UKs Brexit team is committed to getting on with difficult negotiations. On the other, however, it has highlighted the disparity between the UKs domestic and foreign abilities.Overseas, Brexit talks are beginning on time and getting off to a positive start. At home, more than a week after the general election concluded the Conservatives have still not reached an agreement with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) over a formal coalition.The process of uniting the two parties into an effective government has been repeatedly stalled since the June 9th results day. As well as the Grenfell tower disaster delaying a possible deal, the two parties have also struggled over the issue of Northern Irish impartiality.The latter issue has become increasingly prominent in recent days. The main question has been whether the government can remain neutral in Northern Ireland affairs, despite being clearly united with one of the main Northern Irish parties.The Euros failure to advance against the Pound today has been caused by a mixed reception to the latest French election news.Sunday concluded the second round of voting for the French parliamentary elections, which brought a clear majority for President Emmanuel Macron.Although Macron-supporting parties gained the most seats, the positive effect of the news was limited.This was because voter turnout was around 43%, a historic low in Frances history. The high rate of abstention was partly blamed on disagreements with some of Macrons labour reform policies.Another reason was suspected to be voter fatigue, with the two rounds of parliamentary voting coming shortly after the Presidential election in May.Commenting on Macrons mixed victory was Etiennne Lefebvre, Editor-in-Chief at Les Echos;Offering a more optimistic forecast on the Macrons prospects has been Professor of French and European Politics Philippe Marliere;More clearly positive Eurozone news was that construction output remained high in April, posting 3.2% year-on-year.The Pound may be able to make a more noticeable advance against the Euro on Wednesday, when UK government borrowing stats come out. Forecasts are for a deficit reduction in May, from Aprils -9.65bn figure down to -7bn.Such a result could raise the Pound, as it would indicate that the UK is moving closer to the ever-elusive surplus range.From the Eurozone, upcoming high-impact data will include the Spanish trade balance on Tuesday, along with a consumer confidence flash later in the week. In the latter case, the confidence index is expected to improve in June, from -3.3 points to -3.Such an outcome could raise the Euro against the Pound, ahead of high-impact PMI results over Friday.

International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements.

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Pa. Dems could flip the House of Reps. Here's what that might mean.

elections
Within just minutes of the barbaric attack on innocent Muslim worshippers in Finsbury Park on Sunday night, the fanatical propagandists of Islamic State were taking to social media, calling on their twisted followers to take revenge against the crusaders and infidels they claimed were behind the atrocity.

Oh Muslims, you need to wake up to the war that is starting now in your own streets, outside your own mosques, read one of a seemingly endless stream of messages that demanded a fresh wave of terrorism immediately be unleashed in the West.

The despicable crime, rightly defined by Prime Minister Theresa May as an act of extremism and Islamophobia, left one person dead and ten others injured, and the perpetrator arrested for suspected terror offences.

Fear

Within just minutes of the barbaric attack on innocent Muslim worshippers in Finsbury Park on Sunday night, the fanatical propagandists of Islamic State were taking to social media

Coming on the back of a reported surge of anti-Muslim hate crimes after the terrorist attacks by Islamist radicals in Manchester and London, it will leave Britains Muslim community gripped by fear and anger  and everyone else with the appalling sense that things are spiralling out of control.

Worse, this outrage brings closer to realisation Islamic States hope that the small minority of radicalised British Muslims will now be more determined than ever to join the holy war on these shores.

For however much ISIS may feign outrage, in reality they must be ecstatic. The undeniable reality is that they could not have scripted either the timing or the way it was carried out more perfectly to suit their evil agenda.

This outrage brings closer to realisation Islamic States hope that the small minority of radicalised British Muslims will now be more determined than ever to join the holy war on these shores

For a start, it played to their obsessively promoted apocalyptic vision of how a global caliphate will come into being, in the sense that they aim first to cast Muslim against non-Muslim in the West to foment chaos and division.

We are surely witnessing for the first time a new phenomenon in this country: Islamophobic terrorism versus Islamist terrorism.

Muslims, moreover, were deliberately targeted outside their place of worship, just as ISIS has slaughtered Christians outside of theirs in the Middle East.

We are surely witnessing for the first time a new phenomenon in this country: Islamophobic terrorism versus Islamist terrorism

Even more chillingly, the Finsbury Park outrage perfectly mirrors the central jihadist principle that, whenever possible, revenge is enacted by using the same method with which the avenged were killed.

In 2015, for example, a Jordanian pilot was burned alive in a cage in Syria, then buried under rubble. That act of utter cruelty was, according to ISIS, a recreation of exactly how the bombs he had fired from his fighter jet had killed civilians in their homes.

So we had in Finsbury Park, as in the London Bridge attack, a white van driven by a hate-filled maniac. And he was reportedly screaming that he wanted to kill all Muslims, just as the jihadists in London wanted to kill every non-Muslim in their sights.

All Muslims but the jihadist minority see Ramadan as a time of quiet contemplation, contrition, abstinence and charity. Pictured is a vigil held outside Finsbury Park Mosque on Monday

Most bizarre, though, is that the perpetrator repeatedly yelled that he wanted to die in the act. It was as though, like the jihadists that appear to have so enraged him, he were seeking a kind of religious martyrdom.

From ISISs point of view, the timing was no less propitious. All Muslims but the jihadist minority see Ramadan as a time of quiet contemplation, contrition, abstinence and charity.

That, of course, is why it was especially heartbreaking that the group of young men targeted were giving first aid to an elderly man who had collapsed after performing evening prayers in the nearby mosque.

After the London Bridge attack, Mrs May had finally declared that enough is enough, promising to introduce measures this paper has been campaigning for, including closer monitoring of terror suspects

During this month, Muslims around the world also feel an especially strong bond and kinship, and reflect on the ideal that their faith transcends national borders  something that ISIS wants to eradicate.

Islamic States perverted call among its followers to carry out more terror attacks will, therefore, especially resonate among its fanatical foot-soldiers at this moment.

Terrifyingly, ISIS already has a history of explosive terror on a day during Ramadan called Laylat al-Qadr  The Night of Power  which this year will fall on June 21.

This is the day when Muslims believe God revealed the first verses of the Koran to their Prophet Muhammad. For jihadists, though, it is a perfect day to slaughter infidels.

On that same day during Ramadan last year, ISIS butchered 20 Bangladeshis and foreigners in Dhaka with machetes, and a massive truck bomb simultaneously killed more than 200 in Baghdad.

Coming on the back of a reported surge of anti-Muslim hate crimes after the terrorist attacks by Islamist radicals in Manchester and London, it will leave Britains Muslim community gripped by fear and anger. Pictured are people holding a vigil outside Finsbury Mosque

Suspects

Even before Sundays attack in London, Western counter-terrorism forces had been set to be on especially high alert tomorrow.

Meanwhile, following the general election and resulting hung parliament, the Government is less stable than it has been in living memory  another potential boon for the jihadists.

After the London Bridge attack, Mrs May had finally declared that enough is enough, promising to introduce measures this paper has been campaigning for, including closer monitoring of terror suspects.

It would be nice to think that, given the unprecedented terrorism threat now facing the country, such legislation could still be passed swiftly with cross-party support.

He was reportedly screaming that he wanted to kill all Muslims, just as the jihadists in London wanted to kill every non-Muslim in their sights

Yet, since the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is invariably hostile to any such practical moves to make us safer  having voted against them hundreds of times in the past  to hold out such hope may simply be a case of wishful thinking.

That is especially troubling because of the utterly flawed rationale among those on the far-Right that the Government is incapable of tackling the problem of fundamentalist terror  which leads to Islamophobic extremists taking the matter into their own hands.

Radical

Already political opportunists, most conspicuously English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson, appear to be pointing to the radical history of Finsbury Park mosque  as though that were some kind of justification for the mowing down of innocent Muslim worshippers who happen to pray there.

That is the moral equivalent of arguing that the murder of soldier Lee Rigby was justified because of grievances about British foreign policy in the Middle East. It is a call for mob violence, and it is contemptible beyond words.

Already political opportunists, most conspicuously English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson, appear to be pointing to the radical history of Finsbury Park mosque

Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of ordinary Britons will have been sickened to the stomach on hearing about what happened in Finsbury Park.

And at least we should take heart from the fact that despite knowing the attack was deliberate, at the orders of the local imam the worshippers who had been targeted did not take it upon themselves to enact revenge on the perpetrator. Instead, he was restrained and handed over to the police.

Terrorists on both sides of the political spectrum are desperate to divide this tolerant nation. That must not be allowed to happen.
When it comes to asking for a pay rise, women are less likely to negotiate for the salary they want than men.

Add to that the fact women are paid 16 per cent less than men on average, according to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, pay negotiation is something women need to start taking charge of.

Australian entrepreneurs and judges on Channel 10's Shark Tank, Naomi Simson and Janine Allis, shared with Mamamia their expert tips for gaining that pay rise you want.

Australian Shark Tank entrepreneurs, Naomi Simson (left) and Janine Allis (right), shared their expert tips for gaining that pay rise you want

When it comes to asking for a pay rise, women are less likely to negotiate for the salary they want than men (stock image)

Naomi Simson, founding director of RedBalloon, Australia's leading online experience retailer, said you need to first understand what value you add to the business.

Tips for gaining a pay rise Know your worth in the company before asking for a pay rise

Research a bench mark for what you think you should be earning before asking your boss

Work hard and show your value a year before asking for a pay rise

Don't demand a raise simply for being on time or working for a year Advertisement

'The absolute must before contemplating asking for a pay rise is establishing whether you know how you make money for the business that you work for,' Naomi told the publication.

She added: 'Remember to consider what is in it for them? Be clear about why it makes business sense to give you a pay rise.'

Janine Allis, founder of Boost Juice, took a more practical approach to landing that raise.

'The biggest preparation you can do before asking for a pay rise, is doing a great job during the year prior to asking for a pay rise!' Janine said.

Naomi Simson said to 'be clear about why it makes business sense to give you a pay rise' (stock image)

Like most things in business, being prepared makes a world of difference so make sure you know the value you have added to your role, and to the company.

Obviously the most important question is how much to ask for when asking for a pay rise.

Both women agree to research a salary of someone in your role and with the experience you have, prior to having that meeting with your boss.

Naomi said to rate yourself and your experience level against the salary you find online.

Being prepared makes a world of difference so make sure you know the value you have added to your role, and to the company (stock image)

The businesswomen also shared their tips for what not to say when asking your boss to bump up your salary.

Janine said that 'turning up for work every day' just doesn't cut it as a reason for a pay rise.

Much the same as turning up on time, or simply having worked for the company for a year.

'No one deserves anything, you earn it with productivity, going above and beyond and adding value,' Janine said.
A Brisbane-based artist who has illustrated for the likes of Cartier, Kate Spade, Louis Vuitton and Collette Dinnigan has opened up about how she juggles parenthood with a stellar artistic career.

Kerrie Hess, 38, a mother-of-one, is renowned for her romantic artworks that are inspired by old Hollywood glamour and the city of love itself, Paris.

'It's hard, I'm not going to pretend. Sometimes it comes down to turning down jobs with lots of travel,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'My son isn't going to be eight forever but the whole balance thing is difficult, you have to do what's right for you. I might not be doing it right but I'm doing the best I can'.

Kerrie Hess didn't always think the career she had now was in her future but now manages to juggle her career and her young son

Kerrie's illustrations have featured in Vogue, Talter and Harper's Bazaar. She has illustrated countless fashion windows, billboards, book covers, silk scarves, cushions and packaging around the globe.

But for other women who are trying to make it in a similar creative industry Ms Hess told Daily Mail Australia that it's important to learn how the industry works at the beginning.

'Do as much work as you can, then you'll learn and you will also become a better artist. I don't think I was terribly good at the beginning but I got better,' she explained.

'It takes courage but be more choosy as time goes on. Invest in yourself, it takes a lot of courage to turn down certain jobs that aren't quite right for you but it allows you to work on your own interests. I had to turn down projects to work on my own prints.'

She believes that people have different opinions on what success is so encourages people to pursue their own idea of success.

For other women who are trying to make it in a similar creative industry Ms Hess recommends that you learn how the industry works at the beginning

'A real turning point for me was exhibiting in Paris a few years in. I had been working with amazing brands like Cartier and Laduree, but this solo exhibition in 2012 was at Le Meurice Hotel in Paris which gave me the courage to really move into working on original pieces'.

Ms Hess met the directors of the hotel when she was working with Collette Dinnigan on a project and the exhibition ended up being discussed over a cup of tea. It was her first solo show and included 17 or 18 pieces which gave her the confidence to pursue the career she wanted.

'Sometimes things happen really naturally but you need to have the courage to put yourself out there in the first place, sometimes you just need to say yes'.

'Do as much work as you can, then you'll learn and you will also become a better artist. I don't think I was terribly good at the beginning but I got better'

'A real turning point for me was exhibiting in Paris a few years in... this solo exhibition in 2012 was at Le Meurice Hotel in Paris which gave me the courage to really move into working on original pieces'

Ms Hess studied graphic design in Brisbane before she moved to London as a graphic designer.

'I always loved painting and drawing when I was little. I was five when I started going to weekend art classes, I just loved it but I didn't think I could do it as a career'.

She was working as a graphic designer for The Independent newspaper where one day a stock image didn't come in as they were just about to go to print. Ms Hess then illustrated the space of the editorial which led her to illustrating a weekly column which ended up being really popular.

'This made me think that maybe I could do this as a full time job and soon companies and fashion brands got in touch and it moved on from there'.

'I always loved painting and drawing when I was little. I was five when I started going to weekend art classes, I just loved it but I didn't think I could do it as a career'

In the first couple of years of her career Ms Hess was lucky enough to work with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Vogue, Swarovski and Elie Saab as a fashion illustrator but ten years later she moved onto having her own limited edition print shop and an online gallery.

Her website has proven to be successful with four of her six original works selling out in the first hour of the online gallery going live in October 2016.

In the following weeks Ms Hess will be uploading behind the scenes videos on her YouTube channel.

'This has been a second phase of my career, which is why I wanted to start a YouTube channel to show the process of how my works are created. People have asked me if I had videos or photos of how a work was made and now I want to provide it'.

'I'm really excited about it because I haven't seen that many art pieces where you can see what the process was like. There is a romance in working by hand that will hopefully play out on camera'.

A self-identified introvert, the videos will be focusing on Ms Hess creating the pieces rather than her talking, but if she feels more confident as time goes on that could change.

'I want to show people the art more than me, the videos are about the art pieces,' she said.

The piece that is being painted in this video is one of her Originals  The Eye 2, an acrylic and oil on canvas

The piece that is being painted in this video is one of her Originals  The Eye 2, an acrylic and oil on canvas. This piece is inspired as a part two to Kerries most popular original piece to date The Eyes Original  which sold out in just 12 minutes after being added to her online store at the end of last year.

'I'm definitely a sucker for old Hollywood movies like Hitchcock and Fred Astaire and am inspired by Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn.

'The main thing for me is romance and a little bit of mystery. I leave a little bit out of the images so you have to fill them in with your eyes, I try not to paint everything. I'm a big romantic at heart, if I can convey a little bit of that then I'm happy.'
Five years after a horrific attack burned 65 per cent of her body, Dana Vulin is more confident than ever before.

The stunning Perth native has undergone more than 200 procedures and spent three years in a compression mask so that she could recognise herself in the mirror again.

'I hoped, but never thought it would be possible to look this much like the old Dana again,' she told New Idea.

'I love the me I am far better than the me I once was.'

Five years after a horrific attack burned 65 per cent of her body, Dana Vulin is more confident than ever before

The stunning Perth native has undergone more than 200 procedures after she was burned in a horrific attack by Natalie Dimitrovska, who is serving a 17-year jail sentence

Dana had to wear a compression mask on her face for two-and-a-half years to recover

Dana, 31, has come a long way since that fateful day in February 16 2012 when Natalie Dimitrovska accused her of having an affair with her estranged husband and set her on fire.

Dimitrovska doused Dana with methylated spirits and set her alight in her own home in a horrific premeditated attack to 'ruin her pretty face'.

Dana was left with third degree burns to two-thirds of her body, and would spend the rest of her twenties trying to recover.

She would spend a year-and-a-half in the hospital, nearly three years in a neck brace, and would have the skin on her chest completely replaced three times.

But after going through hell and back, Dana is the strongest she's ever been.

'I'm the same Dana I always was, but my life is 200 per cent different - and so it my outlook. I appreciate life more and don't sweat the small stuff,' she told the magazine.

And that includes sparing any thoughts on Dimitrovska, who was sentenced to 17 years behind bars.

Dana gathers with her friends and family every year on the anniversary of the attack to celebrate that she is still alive, and continues to thrive

Dana was left with third degree burns to two-thirds of her body, and would spend the rest of her twenties trying to recover following the attack

She would spend a year-and-a-half in the hospital, nearly three years in a neck brace, and would have the skin on her chest completely replaced three times

'She has no power over me so I don't devote any time or energy to hating her,' Dana said. 'She just means nothing to me.'

Dana gathers with her friends and family every year on the anniversary of the attack to celebrate that she is still alive, and continues to thrive.

'I chose to live, so I'm not going to decide to live and have a crappy life,' Dana told Daily Mail Australia in September.

'I want to make the most of my life. I've not fought so hard for nothing.'

Dana worked 'day and night' after the attack to heal herself, reading everything she could about burns and the skin's system and trying an array of extra treatments.

'I've tried everything,' she said. 'I've gone above and beyond. I've worked so hard to be where I am. I feel like I've earned it.'

'I'm not saying I'm perfect, but I work hard. This is not a miracle. People think it's a miracle, but it's not. It's hard work and a lot of pain and persistence.'

Dana used a special cream of her face that is usually used to treat melanoma and still has regular laser treatments.

'I knew logically that I couldn't look at Dana again but my heart would not let me give up hope. So I kept fighting,' she said.

Dana worked 'day and night' after the attack to heal herself, reading everything she could about burns and the skin's system and trying an array of extra treatments

Dana used a special cream of her face that is usually used to treat melanoma and still has regular laser treatments

She famously removed the compression mask she'd been wearing for two and a half years on Channel Seven's Sunday Night

Dana, who was once told she would never be able to hold a pen again, has even returned to normal mobility and range

'I'm going to know that I tried everything. It helps me be more content - it helps me accept things more.'

Dana, who was once told she would never be able to hold a pen again, has even returned to normal mobility and range.

It has delighted the loving aunt, who was devastated when she was physically unable to even put her arms around her three-month-old nephew after the attack.

Now she does squats while holding all three of her nephews.

Dana credits her confidence for helping her get through even the darkest of times.

'I've always had confidence,' she said. 'Even when I looked like a melted satay peanut. It's always come from within.'

Dana credits her confidence for helping her get through even the darkest of times

Now, she happily describes herself as a 'modern day Frankenstein' and says she is a 'walking advertisment for what modern medicine can do'

And Dana is getting back in the dating world after she was unable to kiss anyone for four years

Dana has since written an autobiography about her ordeal, Worth Fighting For, which will be out in August.

And Dana is finally getting back in the dating world after she was unable to kiss anyone for four years.

'I've got a lot of life to make up,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'I'm just getting my body back, my life back, my face back.'

But even if she doesn't find Mr Right, Dana said she is going to do everything she can to start a family of her own.

'Even if I get to an age where I've not met Mr Right, I'm going to try IVF and everything,' she said.

'I would love to do it with a partner but I'm not going to rely and waiting around. I've got so much love to give.'

'I'm not even sure I can carry kids,' she added. 'The scar banding around my torso is all the way around.'

'But you best believe I'm going to give it a go.'
Yolanda Blamires, from Melbourne, celebrated her wedding to husband Nathan in 2016 knowing the pair would never grow old together.

The 22-year-old shared her story of battling a terminal cancer diagnosis with that's life! magazine this week.

Yolanda and Nathan met in 2013 at Monash University and within weeks were best friends.

Yolanda Blamires, 22, celebrated her wedding to husband Nathan in 2016 knowing the pair would never grow old together

After years of watching Breaking Bad and eating pizza together, the pair finally admitted their feelings for each other in May 2015.

Devastatingly for the new couple, six months later Yolanda's father noticed a yellow tinge in his daughter's eyes, which soon spread to her skin.

Noticing the jaundice, Yolanda went to her doctor who told the young woman her platelet count was high.

'I thought, that can be a sign of cancer,' Yolanda told the magazine.

Not wanting to dwell on such a thought, Yolanda and her family waited for the results to come back.

A week later, with her mum next to her, Yolanda 'sat in shock as the specialist told us I had a 7 centimetre tumour in my liver'.

Yolanda was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2015, but Nathan has been her rock

Unsure how to tell Nathan, who she was meant to have a dinner date with that night, Yolanda's mother delivered the news.

For Yolanda, seeing her best friend and boyfriend cry was heartbreaking.

Our love might burn briefly, but it burns bright.

She told her now-husband: 'You don't have to stay with me. You didn't sign up for this.'

But Nathan stuck by her side, despite the couple finding out Yolanda's cancer was terminal not long after.

'At 21-years-old, I had just months to live,' Yolanda said.

Immediately, the young woman thought of the devastation her illness would have on Nathan and her family after she was gone.

The couple were married in 2016 after Nathan proposed under a waterfall. The couple are pictured at Disneyland Paris

A month later, and having come to terms with her diagnosis, Yolanda and Nathan were on a bush walk when Nathan decided they should check out a new path.

It was overlooking a beautiful waterfall that Nathan got down on one knee and proposed.

After saying yes to marry the man of her dreams and best friend, Yolanda and Nathan set about planning their wedding for three months time.

Yolanda's story is in this week's that's life! magazine

Yolanda told the magazine that 'twirling on the dance floor with Nathan was one of the happiest moments of my life'.

The couple have traveled to New Zealand and Fiji together and plan to make the most of the time they have left.

Eighteen months since Yolanda first received the news of her cancer diagnosis, she's still fighting and credits Nathan for keeping her here.

'A course of chemotherapy has shrunk the tumour by half, but it's believed I have a year left to live,' she said.

Nathan has postponed his career and now works part-time to spend as much time with Yolanda as he can.

While the couple face an emotional road, Yolanda said she wants her husband to be happy once she's gone.

'I want you to meet someone, I tell him,' she said. 'I want another girl to be as happy as he's made me.

'Our love might burn briefly, but it burns bright.'
She's got the bone density of a 35-year-old, a husband 23 years her junior, and does more push-ups in a day than most teenagers can finish in PE class.

Janice Lorraine is 74 years young, and she's a professional bodybuilder.

The grandmother from Canberra is getting ready to fly to Thailand so she can sport that famous bodybuilder bikini and fake tan to try and win an international title.

Janice first entered the world of bodybuilding nearly 20 years ago, after she retired from her job as a school counsellor.

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Grandmother Janice Lorraine, 74, is a professional bodybuilder. She's about to compete for her first international title

Janice first entered the world of bodybuilding nearly 20 years ago, after she retired from her job as a school counsellor

The former psychologist said her 'whole world disappeared' as her career came to a close.

'I had no one telling me when to go to work, when to stay at home, no praise,' she said on the Today show on Monday.

'I didn't belong to anything that mattered. I was devastated.'

Janice went to the gym one day and saw a group of older women getting up on step boxes for a class.

One of them told the instructor she hoped the routine wouldn't be 'too hard'.

'The instructor said, "Don't worry ladies, it won't be too hard" and I thought "What!"', Janice recalled. 'I'm used to powering ahead.'

'So I watched these ladies getting up on their step boxes and they were just so tentative.'

'And I thought, is this how I'm supposed to be in this new world? Am I supposed to fall apart.'

Janice decided to begin weight resistance training because she heard it was good for bone density and soon knew she wanted to compete professionally

Her husband, who is nearly 24 years her junior, is one of her biggest fans. They have been married 26 years and he helps apply her fake tan before competitions

Janice goes to the gym three times a week and trains throughout the year, never taking a break from her routine

When Janice saw an old woman in the car park, who couldn't walk unaided and had 'flesh hanging from her arms', she made a promise to herself.

'I thought, I'm not going to be like that,' she recalled.

Janice decided to begin weight resistance training because she heard it was good for bone density.

'And I like a purpose,' she said. 'I don't like just doing something for nothing. So I thought I'll compete, and that's how it all started.'

Janice goes to the gym three times a week and trains throughout the year, never taking a break from her routine.

'I don't stop,' she said. 'I Know that if I do this I feel good, I can do heaps of stuff, and it inspires people.'

She does 60 push-ups a day, runs 32km a week, and uses 13 different machines at the gym.

She does 60 push-ups a day, runs 32km a week, and uses 13 different machines at the gym

When Janice saw an old woman in the car park, who couldn't walk unaided and had 'flesh hanging from her arms', she made a promise to herself that she was never 'going to be like that'

But Janice revealed that her family isn't 'all that impressed' with her accomplishments.

'As a psychologist, I find that the expectations of others go a long way to stopping us from doing what is possible, what we love,' she said.

'And that's very sad. Maybe one day they'll accept it, but they don't take any notice of my achievements.'

But Janice's husband, who she has been married to for 26 years, is always in the crowd cheering her on. And he even helps apply her fake tan before competitions.

Now Janice is on her way to Thailand to compete in the world titles, and hopes her efforts will continue to inspire older Australians to live their life to the fullest.

'We've got people now in the gym in their eighties and they're travelling the world because they're strong,' she said.

'There's no use having that time when you're older if you're not strong and active and excited about yourself and life.'
On the 23rd of November 2015, my mentally ill sister flew into a violent rage and murdered her friend and housemate.

At the time, she was 20 weeks pregnant and suffering extreme morning sickness. She was also not sleeping, she was hungry and in the throes of withdrawals from her many heavy medications.

Anna was living in chaos; her mental illness had robbed her of the ability to do the simplest of things, like shopping for food or filling a prescription.

She should have been in care, and my family had been trying everything to achieve this.

It was 23rd of November 2015 when Anna Horneshaw (pictured) flew into a violent rage and murdered her friend and housemate

Zvonimir Petrovski, the elderly custodian of the messy house where Anna had been staying, had done nothing to provoke his fate.

Instead, his protectiveness toward my sister had provided my family with a glimmer of relief at a time when her life was falling apart.

And so, as the shock began to subside and the horror of what had happened took root inside my mind, I kept coming back to the same thoughts.

He didn't deserve this. And it could have been prevented.

Her sister Katie (pictured) has written candidly about her family's struggle in a bid to break down the stigma of talking about mental illness

WHAT THE COURT HEARD Anna Horneshaw, 28, was 20 weeks pregnant when she stabbed her housemate to death. The Supreme Court of Victoria heard she had severe morning sickness and was withdrawing from prescribed mental health medication, alcohol and cannabis when the attack occurred. She stabbed 67-year-old Zvonimir Petrovski - who she regarded as a 'father figure' - 22 times with a large boning knife at the property they shared in Melbourne in November 2015 after an argument. In March 2017 she was jailed for 17 years and ordered to serve a minimum of 13. Her son was born while she was on remand. Advertisement

I wanted desperately to take back what had happened. But I couldn't.

So, it was with Zvonimir in mind that I decided to write about the chain of systematic failures which led Anna to be in that little house one Saturday afternoon, and not in a hospital being treated for her addiction and mental illness.

I wrote about the times Mum had pleaded with hospital staff to admit Anna to the psychiatric ward, only to be told that her daughter, who had just attempted to stab herself to death with the kitchen knife, was "well enough to return home".

I wrote about watching my sister lurch from one suicide attempt to the next; about her descent into psychosis; about her increasingly violent behaviour as she began to hit and threaten her male housemates.

About her telling a psychiatric assessor that she was having suicidal and homicidal thoughts.

Katie said she had watched her sister (left) lurch 'from one suicide attempt to the next' over the years

But Katie said her family was told again and again that her sister (they are pictured together as children) was well enough to return home

I wrote about how we had tried desperately to find a long-term residential facility which would keep Anna from harming herself or others, but instead were told again and again after short psychiatric admissions that she needed to leave now. It was time to go home.

I needed people to know about the failings of our mental health system, so that maybe in the future, tragedies like Zvonimir's could be prevented.

Since I began to share my story, feedback has poured in from hundreds of families like mine.

Behind closed doors all over Australia, exhausted parents are spending every waking moment fighting to keep their mentally ill and addicted loved ones alive.

They feel abandoned by the system, just as we did.

'For many families, the gruelling task of attempting to care for loved ones with complex combinations of mental illness and addiction simply becomes too much,' Katie wrote (pictured is her sister Anna)

Nowhere is this more evident than in the waiting room of the Victorian women's prison. Here, the same stories of heartbreak are told over and over again.

Weary parents share the frustration of waiting months for their daughter to get a place in Victoria's singular public detox unit, only to find they've walked out two days later.

While clutching the wriggly toddlers of their imprisoned loved ones, grandparents explain how they had tried in vain to get their daughters to attend psychiatric appointments at outreach centres.

In many cases, families have attempted to have their loved ones hospitalised after a suicide attempt or an act of violence, only to be told that they will have to continue to cope with the situation at home.

'For years, when a friend would ask after Anna, I would scramble for an answer, any answer that would cover up the fact that she was spending her days smoking synthetic weed and watching endless DVDs. I was ashamed, and shame is a powerful gag,' Katie said

Like us, these families have tried to get help for their mentally ill loved ones, but have found the ad-hoc range of government-funded mental health supports to be totally insufficient.

Instead, the mammoth task of keeping their sick family members alive and out of trouble has been left completely up to them.

For many families, the gruelling task of attempting to care for loved ones with complex combinations of mental illness and addiction simply becomes too much.

This is why so many of Australia's mentally ill people are ending up on the streets or in prison.

This is a national crisis. So why don't we hear about it more?

The short answer is we don't talk about it enough.

She said shame compels families to keep their struggle with mental illness to themselves - but it is important to talk about it (the sisters are pictured together)

For years, when a friend would ask after Anna, I would scramble for an answer, any answer that would cover up the fact that she was spending her days smoking synthetic weed and watching endless DVDs.

I was ashamed, and shame is a powerful gag.

In Australia, we still have a corrosive belief that you should keep your feelings to yourself, especially if those feelings are ugly and complicated.

Because of this, mental illness and addiction remain shrouded in stigma.

Shame compels families like mine to keep their struggles with mental illness to themselves.

But the more we talk about it, the easier it will get.

When news of Anna's crime was splashed across the media, our family were no longer able to keep our battles a secret. We decided to speak out, and in doing so, a huge burden has been lifted.

'We decided to speak out, and in doing so, a huge burden has been lifted,' Katie said, of her decision to be open about what happened

If we want to bring change to our dysfunctional mental health system, we have to talk about the problem.

The more families who speak out, the more pressure their will be on government to address the crisis. Stigma thrives on silence. So let's work on easing the burden of stigma and shame together.

At the very least, we need more respite and support for the thousands of exhausted families caring for mentally ill and addicted adult children. They can't keep going on love alone.

My condolences as always to Zvonimir's grieving family. I hope that your loved one's death will not be in vain.

Katie wrote this article in exchange for a donation to the Luke Batty Foundation and Beyond Blue.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14.
A mother has recalled the moment she held her 'miracle IVF baby' in her arms for the first time.

Everything else in her life seemed to melt away as she looked down at the little girl's 'perfect pouting lips and little crop of dark hair'.

Nikki Howden had waited nine long months to hold her baby but two days later when a trickle of blood appeared from her baby's perfect nose she knew it was time to let nurses take her from her arms so she could be buried.

The mother, now 43, gave birth to a stillborn baby girl at Cowra Hospital in central west NSW on March 19, 2011 and instantly found herself lost in a deep dark fog of denial, depression and despair.

Nikki Howden pictured with her son Blake after the birth of her second child and first daughter, 22 years ago. The mother had gave birth to four healthy babies before Chance was stillborn

Mrs Howden's children posed with a photograph of Chance the same year she died - the beloved image is the only one ever taken of the baby - and 'talk about her all the time

Two of the packs made by Nikki's charity 'Chance's Clothes Project' these packages were donated to a hospital to help grieving parents

'I didn't even unwrap her to look at her little fingers and toes. She looked so peaceful when they handed her to me and I didn't want to risk hurting her,' Mrs Howden told Daily Mail Australia.

She had gone to the hospital two days after last feeling the last of her five children kicking.

'At first I was in denial I just thought she had run out of room - I guess I didn't let myself believe what I probably already knew.

'It wasn't until I started getting physically sick that I went to the hospital and they told me she didn't have a heartbeat.

'When I held her in my arms for the first time I was in denial, I thought she would wake up and everything would be okay.

'I imagined she would have blue eyes just like her two older brothers and two older sisters. But she didn't and then they had to take her away from me.'

The experience of losing the baby she had fought so hard to have sent her into a deep depression where she felt alone despite having a family and loving friends at home.

But she was ripped away from her own deep thoughts and self-pity eight months later when her friend also had a stillbirth.

'I took photos of her with her baby and unwrapped him to show her his body and feet, all things I wasn't in the frame of mind to do but wished I had,' she said.

Mrs Howden always wanted a large family - but admits they disappeared from her mind as she mourned Chance. Here she is pictured with eldest son Blake

Nikki Howden wishes to continue pushing the project to more hospitals, she is pictured right at 30 weeks pregnant with Chance

It was at that moment she realised for the first time she was not alone and many more mothers would have to suffer through the loss of a child to stillbirth or miscarriage.

The mother-of-five who now dedicates all of her time to her four older children, and a charity aimed at providing clothing, wraps and comforters to stillborn and miscarried babies.

The project was launched one year to the day that Mrs Howden lost her daughter  who she had already named Chance.

'It is important to recognise the birth of these babies,' she said.

'When you give birth to a live baby you make sure they are beautifully clothed, wrapped in a blanket and kept warm.

'The same should be done for still born babies. They deserve to be buried in a beautiful little outfit - with some dignity.'

The mother-of-five now devotes all of her time to her four surviving children and Chance's charity

Chance's Clothes Project has now delivered sets of clothes, blankets and booties catered to all lost babies from zero weeks to full term to 82 hospitals.

'We have sent refill packs to 50 hospitals now  when they have requested more in certain sizes and there are five hospital we have sent packages to again and again.'

The charity which is run from the neighbourhood centre in Cowra runs with the help of volunteers who knit or sew the clothes, sort them into sizes depending on the average size of the foetus during different stages of the pregnancy and those who donate supplies or money for postage.

'When I first started it was me and it took about a month for me to knit one bonnet, so I am so glad I have the support of all these wonderful ladies who are much better and faster at the crafty side than I am.

Packages are made for babies from zero weeks gestation to full term

'These ladies can knit a bonnet in 20 minutes. I used to count every single item but now we are dealing with such huge numbers  but we have already delivered about 25,000 items.

'Each hospital receives 50 packs, with outfits for little boys, little girls and unisex babies. And each package has about ten items  a blanket, some clothes, a set of booties, a tiny nappy, a comforter and a hat.

'We are currently working at a pace where we can send out packs to four hospitals a month.'

The mother's four older children acknowledge their little sister 'all the time'.

They are unisex and every package contains a little pair of booties the parents can keep

'She has a little shelf in our house where she sits, along with presents the kids have got her over the years,' Mrs Howden said.

'The other day Cohan, who was four when Chance was born, came home from school and said he had met a really nice girl from the kindergarten class who ''probably would have been Chance's friend''.

'He was so young when this happened but it shocks me how resilient kids can be.

'The kids used to play with her toys when they were younger and now babies visiting the house play with them.

'It used to freak me out a lot but then I had to tell myself if she was alive she would be sharing her things and she would love it.'

Mrs Howden's two youngest children, Archer and Cohan, who speak freely about Chance

The shelf in the Howden's home where Chance sits wrapped in a blanket, surrounded by gifts from her siblings

Chance was an 'IVF baby' and the mother's 'last opportunity' to add to her family.

'She was very planned and hoped for, I fell pregnant at the first cycle,' Mrs Howden said.

'It is crazy because with IVF babies you first see them under a microscope  I would often tell her, "I knew you before you were in my tummy".

The mother's project now has the ability to guide mother's through the death of their babies.

'We have a group where mums who have lost babies can meet other mums who are going through the same thing,' Mrs Howden said.

'It helps them to know they aren't alone and how many mums out there are going through the same things.'

Mrs Howden's maternal instincts kicking in with a day-old lamb

The mother says her children remind her of Chance's milestone - such as when she would have started kindergarten

Chance's Clothes Project has now reached 82 hospitals with 50 hospitals receiving 'top ups'

Mrs Howden also invites mothers to share photographs of their babies footprints on her charity's Facebook page.

'It is amazing the people that contact me, one woman came to me to knit after losing a baby 40 years ago. Others are the grandparents or aunties of babies that have passed away.'

The mother, who still thinks of her baby girl every day, hope to continue to expand the project to as many hospital as possible.

'It is a great feeling when the hospitals we supply things to ring up and ask for more packs because it means people are using them, that they want them,' she said.

In Australia one in 120 babies are stillborn or die within a month of their birth. This does not include miscarriages which are also common.
For a lot of people who lose a drastic amount of weight, there is one pivotal moment which forces them to change.

For Caitlin Pettigrew, that moment came when her best friend asked her to be her bridesmaid.

'I remember my dad saying: "You're not going to be that fat bridesmaid, are you?",' Ms Pettigrew told Daily Mail Australia.

The 27-year-old from Townsville in Queensland then resolved to do something about her weight - which she had been putting off for years thanks to a lack of self-confidence.

She promptly quit her 25 cigarettes a day and sugar habit, and lost 49 kilograms in the process.

Caitlin Pettigrew, 27, from Queensland (pictured before and after), shed an impressive 49 kilograms during two separate 12-week challenges

Ms Pettigrew (pictured right) spoke to FEMAIL about her incredible weight loss, sharing her tips and the fact that she has since given up smoking a packet of cigarettes a day

Ms Pettigrew's weight loss started when she was asked to be a bridesmaid for her best friend - her dad asked her whether she was going to be the 'fat bridesmaid' (pictured before and after)

Ms Pettigrew explained to FEMAIL that her first step in her incredible weight loss journey was to get a personal trainer:

'I joined Genesis Fitness Club and remember on the first day struggling with getting up the stairs to get into the gym, I was that unfit,' she said.

'I was at a stage in my life where I needed to do something because I was anxious. I had stopped going to social events because I felt so uncomfortable in my skin.

'I had lost a lot of myself in the weight gain. I knew I needed to change.'

When she first signed up to Genesis, Ms Pettigrew said that her PT recommended she try their 12-week Your New Beginning Challenge, which runs each year from February:

'I had a deadline of September for the wedding, so it worked perfectly,' Ms Pettigrew said.

'I knew I had to take it seriously, so I became really strict with myself.'

In order to lose the weight, Ms Pettigrew set herself many goals - these included to walk 10,000 steps a day and to give up sugar and cigarettes (pictured before and after)

She joined Genesis Fitness Club and competed in their 12-week body transformation challenge (pictured before and after)

Ms Pettigrew (pictured with her brother) said that while giving up smoking and sugar was difficult at first, she soon saw the results on her waistline

CAITLIN'S TOP TIPS FOR WEIGHT LOSS * Make small changes and repeat them; implement them as part of your routine. * Think about what your life will look like once you've made those changes and repeat them. * Look at what will work for you on an individual level. If you like walking, walk. If you prefer group activities do them. * As someone who liked structure, Ms Pettigrew explained that meal prepping was really good for her. * Be strict with yourself - you've had a lifetime of morning teas is what Ms Pettigrew told herself. * Get in touch with what your body needs. * Move more. Ms Pettigrew made sure she walked 10,000 steps at least each day. * Allow yourself the odd cheat meal in order to stay balanced. * Transform yourself from a no into a yes person. Make sure you get things done. * Keep yourself accountable by keeping a food diary of everything you eat. * Go cold turkey on things you're addicted to. For Ms Pettigrew, this was sugar and cigarettes. Advertisement

By strict, Ms Pettigrew said she meant that she cut out the 'few drinks' she enjoyed after work each evening, as well as the sugar, 'fast food' and 'carby meals' she ate on a daily basis.

'I also smoked 25 cigarettes each day and I knew I had to cut these out,' she said.

'Instead, I took up walking for 30-45 minutes each day, making sure I reached 10,000 steps. I also saw my PT three times a week and did three bootcamp sessions.'

Before she knew it, the 27-year-old medical receptionist was seeing results. By week three or four of the challenge, she said she could see physical changes in her body.

Ms Pettigrew also said that she felt much better.

'I loved being accountable and keeping a food diary,' she said.

'I also really enjoyed doing all the meal prepping at the beginning of the week and relying on it. I knew I was busy at work and so everything needed to be in place to stop me from falling off the wagon.

'I went cold turkey on sugar and cigarettes too. It was hard at the beginning - I had really weird dreams and headaches and was tired all the time.

'But by the time I got into week three or four, I was feeling so much better. As the weight came off me, so too did layers of myself. I started to look at myself differently.

'Why had I treated my body so badly for so long? I needed to change; I'd had a lifetime of morning teas.'

'Why had I treated my body so badly for so long? I needed to change; I'd had a lifetime of morning teas,' she told FEMAIL (pictured before and after)

At the end of her first 12-week challenge, Ms Pettigrew had lost an impressive 27 kilos, taking her weight from 116.7 kilograms to a lean 89.7:

'I remember feeling so much more self-confident at the wedding and feeling good for the first time in years,' she said.

'I was so excited to see what the new Caitlin looked like.'

But after she finished the challenge in June last year, Ms Pettigrew still felt she had more to go.

And so, she signed up for the same challenge this year - losing another 22 kilos in 12 weeks and taking her weight down to what it is now - 69.8 kilograms:

I used to deal with my emotions and addictions by feeding them with sugar or cigarettes

'I used to deal with my emotions and addictions by feeding them with sugar or cigarettes,' she said.

'Now I look at exercise as my sanity. It's my release.'

Speaking about her tips for others who want to shed fat, Ms Pettigrew said you need to 'make small changes and repeat them'.

'Think about what your life will look like once you've made a change and implement it, then get used to it,' she said.

'It's also important to look at what will work for you. If you're someone who likes walking, walk. If you're someone who thrives in group activities, do that.

'Some people would get bored eating the same lunch every day and meal prepping, but it worked for me. It has to be individual. Get in touch with what your body needs.'

At the end of her first 12-week challenge, Ms Pettigrew had lost an impressive 27 kilos, taking her weight from 116.7 kilograms to a lean 89.7 - she now weighs 69.7 after a second challenge

Nowadays, the 27-year-old is focusing on toning, and she said she is still a reformed smoker and sugar addict:

'I'm less strict with myself and can enjoy a cheat meal once or twice a week,' she said.

'But I no longer smoke or have sugar. I am much more balanced.'

Most importantly, Ms Pettigrew said she's learned to become the 'yes' person she once was:

'I had lost so much of myself I'd become a no person and I turned down every social invite,' she said.

'It's all about making that transition from no to yes. Did I go to the gym? Yes. Did I meal prep? Yes. Did I go to that event? Yes. I'm a new person,' she said.

To find out more about the Genesis Fitness Club's Your New Beginning Challenge, click here.
For anyone who has ever invested in a statement dress for a wedding, birthday party or event and then found it languishing in their wardrobe worn once several months later, consider this site your new best friend.

The Volte allows customers to rent or borrow designer dresses from ordinary women around the country - and at the same time allows women who own the dresses to make money from them.

It's the brainchild of three Perth-based women, who quit their corporate jobs in law and academia last year only to see their website take off in double quick time.

'The sharing economy is booming right now,' one of the founders, Kym Atkins, 39, told Daily Mail Australia.

'It's fantastic to be working in something that's doing so well, and something we love like fashion.'

The Volte allows customers to rent or borrow designer dresses from ordinary women around the country - and at the same time allows women who own the dresses to make money from them (pictured: the three Perth-based founders and the fourth owner, Jade)

'The sharing economy is booming right now,' one of the founders, Kym Atkins, 39, told Daily Mail Australia - she said she loves working in something she is passionate about (pictured: one of The Volte's dresses)

Ms Atkins told FEMAIL that the idea for The Volte first came around when one of the co-founders, Bernadette Olivier, was going to lots of weddings and acquiring a barrage of dresses she only wore once.

At the same time, her friend, Genevieve Hohnen, was looking for an outfit, and yet was only finding sizes 8 and 10 online and in stores - she needed a size 12:

'The idea was born from all of this,' Ms Atkins explained. 'We just thought: What if you could make money from items in your wardrobe you no longer wear?'.

And so, 18 months ago, the three friends began to develop their idea and hone it into what has become The Volte today.

'We juggled our corporate jobs for a while as we developed the business,' Ms Atkins explained.

'But once we officially launched in January this year, we quit them and now focus full-time on The Volte.'

Ms Atkins told FEMAIL that the idea for The Volte first came around when one of the co-founders, Bernadette Olivier, was going to lots of weddings (picturted: L-R: Kym Atkins, Genevieve Hohnen and Bernadette Olivier)

'We just thought: What if you could make money from items in your wardrobe you no longer wear?,' Ms Atkins explained (pictured: one of The Volte's dresses)

Explaining 'it's like the AirBnB of fashion', Ms Atkins added that she thinks The Volte is becoming increasingly popular because of the times we live in:

'The sharing market is huge at the moment. A recent study estimated that one in four Australians are making money from the sharing economy,' she said.

Zimmermann, Alice McCall and Lover are some of the most popular labels. Zimmermann dresses are often hired out back to back

The Volte works differently to other rent a dress websites on the Australian market such as Glam Corner.

The site encourages women to earn a passive income from the beautiful and pricey dresses which are often sitting untouched in their wardrobes.

'The site works by letting people create a profile and then listing their items,' Ms Atkins said.

'You can set your price, list it yourself for free and create a bond if you want one, in case it gets damaged. Then, you simply enter in your bank details, accept the requests and send your dress out by Australia Post or courier.'

Dresses range between AUD $30 and $2,000 - though this is for a bespoke Armani dress worth $30,000 which Anna Heinrich wore to a recent event.

The majority of dresses sit between $60 and $120 for four days rent.

'Zimmermann, Alice McCall and Lover are some of the most popular labels,' Ms Atkins said.

'Zimmermann dresses are often hired out back to back to back.'

According to the Volte team members (pictured), Zimmermann, Lover and Alice McCall dresses are proving extremely popular

'Access is the new ownership. Women can afford to wear something they couldn't before, and that's great,' Ms Atkins explained (pictured: one of The Volte's dresses)

Insofar as where the founders fit into the earning picture, Ms Atkins explained that the co-founders take a 15 per cent cut of the rental amount, if the garment is hired.

'The tide is changing with regards to how and why people shop now,' the co-founder said.

'People used to just buy a new dress for a 21st, big birthday or wedding, whereas now women want something new, but not overly expensive, when they go out for a lunch event or go dancing.

'Our aim is to provide dresses at all sizes, all price points and for every demographic. It's been so great to work in something we're passionate about.'

With regard to the future, Ms Atkins said the world is The Volte's oyster - they are soon introducing a trial service, whereby people can try things on before they hire them (pictured: the founders)

With regard to the future, Ms Atkins said the world is The Volte's oyster - they are soon introducing a trial service, whereby people can try things on before they hire them.

They are also considering developing the site internationally.

'At the moment, we're concentrating on all of Australia,' Ms Atkins said.

'More designers, more sizes and more dresses. Access is the new ownership. Women can afford to wear something they couldn't before, and that's great.'

'We're all females and we've gone into a male-dominated industry,' she said. 'It's been great having my friends there with me for support,' Ms Atkins said (pictured: a design)

Ms Atkins finally shared her tips for women in business.

Most importantly, these include having an 'amazing support team'.

'We're all females and we've gone into a male-dominated industry,' she said. 'It's been great having my friends there with me for support.'

She also said if you've got a good idea, then you need to 'go for it':

'Focus on your idea and push it forward,' she said.

To find out more about The Volte, click here. You can also follow the site on Instagram here.
A Reddit user has launched an online appeal to track down a couple who lost their camera containing precious holiday pictures.

The user, known only as oxHeadshotz69xo, found the camera in Rome and discovered it was full of 'many great photos' from the pair's trip to Europe.

He decided to share a snap from one of their pit stops in the hope someone would recognise the mystery couple and help reunite them with their holiday pictures.

He uploaded a snap on Sunday night showing the middle-aged couple in front of picturesque Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, Poland.

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A Reddit user found a camera in Rome and discovered it was full of 'many great photos' from their trip to Europe - like this one taken by Wawel Cathedral in Krakow, Poland

The pair can be seen grinning broadly as they sit side-by-side on a bench under a bright blue sky.

Writing alongside the photo, the Redditor explained: 'Their last photo was taken at the end of May. I had to come back from Europe to upload this photo so I am hoping that someone will recognise them.'

He added that he wanted to 'ship the camera back to them if we find out who they are.'

His post attracted dozens of comments from Reddit users determined to help him track down the couple and reunite them with their priceless holiday snaps.

Some offered advice on how to contact them, like looking at metadata on the camera for clues like the GPS location of where the photos were taken.

Others went as far as suggesting he print out pictures of the couple and show it to hotel staff to see if they recognised them.

Do you know the couple in this photo? Email femail@mailonline.co.uk

The Reddit user said he had decided to share a snap in the hope someone would recognise the mystery couple and help reunite them with their holiday pictures
A psychotherapist has laid bare what really goes on inside couples' therapy - by turning her counselling sessions into a gritty podcast series.

Esther Perel offers a sneak peek into the real conversations that go on behind her office door as couples try to work through their issues.

The therapist, from Belgium, has used real recordings in the ten-part first season which she hopes will help other couples to battle their demons too.

Perel says the series, which is free to download on Audible, comprises 'intimate, unscripted sessions between real-life couples'.

Through the keyhole: Each installment of Esther Perel's new podcast series focuses on a different issues such as betrayal, infidelity, trauma, unemployment or 'sexlessness'

Her latest venture, called Where Should We Begin, hit the iTunes store in late May and has already seen huge success, regularly topping the top audiobook lists.

Perel, who shot to fame with a TED Talk about how infidelity can save your marriage, says she found willing participants by sending out a request to hundreds of people on her mailing list.

She received applications from some 450 couples, which she then narrowed down to 10, each of whom appear anonymously in unscripted, 30-minute episodes.

Each installment focuses on a different issues such as betrayal, infidelity, trauma, unemployment or 'sexlessness'.

In episode one, Perel speaks to a couple who are still coming to terms with the aftermath of the husband's affair a year earlier.

Harrowing: Esther Perel offers listeners a sneak peek into the conversations that go on behind her office door as couples try to work through their issues

'It's not the affair that hurts,' says his distraught wife who is also the mother of his three children. 'It's the betrayal that somebody else was more important [than me].'

She tells Esther: 'Everything fell apart because of what he did. Part of my anger is because I feel like I've done a lot for him. I've changed my religion for him.'

Her husband then reveals that his Russian Orthodox wife had converted to Islam for him prior to his infidelity.

Esther attempts to guide the couple as they come to terms with the husband's 'violation of trust' and his 'deceit'.

Perel is currently looking for couples to take part in season two.
A young mother has revealed how her bid to help babies by donating her surplus breast milk took a more sinister turn, after she was contacted by a fetishist interested in 'direct feeding'.

Jen Bradshaw, 23, from Wigan, signed up to a network - Human Milk 4 Human Babies UK - and said she'd happily gives ounces of breast milk that she didn't need for her son Lucas, 20 months, away.

However, after successfully helping a nurse with extra milk for over a month, she was then approached by a man claiming he wanted breast milk for protein shakes.

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Mother-of-one Jen Bradshaw, from Wigan, has revealed how a Facebook user contacted her after reading that she donated her surplus breast milk to newborns. The man said he was looking for milk 'to add to protein shakes' but Bradshaw became suspicious

The Facebook user admitted after a lengthy exchange that he had paid around 300 an hour to be breastfed

Mother-of-one Bradshaw, 23, donates surplus breast milk via the Human Milk for Human Babies network

While initially willing to engage with the man to find out more, the conversation quickly took a 'weird turn' after he admitted he wanted the milk for 'recreational purposes'.

He tried to arrange to 'direct feed' from Bradshaw once a week, when her fiance Matt Taylor was out.

Horrified that what she intended as a selfless gesture was going to be used by someone with an obvious sexual interest in lactation, sheconfronted the apparently married man, who then begged for her not to tell his wife.

Now Bradshaw is speaking out in a bid to warn other mums to check who they donate their breast milk to for fear that the man will be targeting others - and there may be other fetishists abusing generous mums.

The young mum said: 'It seems a bit defective for a man to want to breastfeed from a stranger. It was obvious he had some kind of fetish.

'He told me he'd nursed from a woman nearer home in the past for 300 an hour and said he wanted the same from me for 'experimental reasons'.

'When I got the first message which just claimed he wanted it bottled, I thought it was a bit weird but at the same time, if he was going to pay I wasn't bothered.

Bradshaw, pictured with her young son, said she thought it was strange that the man wanted breast milk but was happy to provide frozen expressed milk if he was willing to pay for it

The pair agreed a price of 3-4 an oz but Bradshaw became suspicious when the man said he would prefer fresh milk

'The man said he'd need it for body building and 'recreational purposes', but soon it changed to him needing freshly expressed stuff which he'd drive from Leeds each Sunday to pick up. He said he'd pay 4 per ounce.

He was married as well. I know if my partner wanted to direct breastfeed from another woman I wouldn't be very impressed... Jen Bradshaw

She continues: 'Around the same time he contacted me about this, I had just had my disability benefits stopped after an operation so we were struggling financially and probably could have done with the money, but there was no way I would do that.'

Soon, when Jen looked into the potential customer, she discovered that he was married and after quizzing him on this, the man insisted his wife wasn't to find out.

At the same time, he dictated that Jen was to drive to meet him without her fiance, which she declined.

Jen, who 20-month-old son is called Lucas, said: 'He said it was for his protein shakes but then he started talking about direct feeding.

'I didn't feel comfortable with it. It was strange. Using breast milk for sexual enjoyment is weird really.

'He was married as well and apparently his wife knew nothing about it. I know if my partner wanted to direct breastfeed from another woman I wouldn't be very impressed.

Jen had previously come across Human Milk for Human Babies network when she was left with an 160oz stash of frozen breast milk.

She met another mum who was a nurse and unable to express enough milk for her own baby, so Jen donated to her for around two months.

Jen with her young son Lucas, 20-months-old, and her fiance Matt Taylor. Bradshaw told the man even if they agreed a deal for her milk, her fiance would be present when she handed it over

When the nurse no longer needed the milk, she was again left with a stash and that was when the man contacted her with his strange request.

Jen said: 'The woman's husband originally came up three or four times before their car broke down, then after another few weeks, she messaged me to say they no longer needed the donations and sent me a lovely card and box of chocolates.

'After that, I ended up with 160oz of expressed milk in my freezer and it was driving my partner mad. It took up a full drawer.

'But there was no way I was throwing it out. My blood, sweat and tears went into expressing that and building up the stash.

'That's when the man first got in touch.'

ADULTS DRINKING BREAST MILK FOR HEALTH BENEFITS 'RISK CONTRACTING VIRUSES' In 2015, doctors warned that the growing market in the online sale of human breast milk is creating a serious health risk. British experts spoke of their concern that the booming craze for breast milk - which is bought by adult fitness fanatics or those who have chronic diseases - could spread life-threatening disease. An increasing number of adults are drinking breast milk, convinced that the health benefits it provides to infants could boost their fitness and immune systems. Internet forums match buyers with breast-feeding mothers who have excess milk to sell. Fetching 50 a pint or more, the milk is offered either fresh or frozen, and is often available by post. Writing in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, they call for regulators to make it clear buying milk online is not safe. 'The latest supplement  touted as completely natural, free-from and a 'super food'  human breast milk has emerged as a recent craze among adults,' they said. 'Online forums are replete with posts boasting about the immune, recovery, nutritional and muscle building benefits of human milk. 'For those seeking a competitive edge, this milk is supposed to deliver significant returns. 'A 'clean' super food, it is purported to lead to 'gains' in the gym, to help with erectile dysfunction, to be more digestible and to contain positive immune building properties.' But the experts, led by Dr Sarah Steele of Queen Mary University of London, said there is no evidence to back the claims. Nutritionally, there is less protein in breast milk than cow's milk, and clinical trials do not back the claim that adults can enjoy the health benefits experienced by brestfed babies. More seriously, the doctors say human milk can be hazardous - spreading viruses such as hepatitis B and C, HIV and syphilis. Because the milk is not pasteurised, it is also full of germs. 'Research into breast milk bought online identified the presence of detectable bacteria in 93 per cent of samples,' the authors wrote. Advertisement

Now, she has expressed her shock that some people would want to use these important platforms for struggling mums to help get their sexual fix and wants to urge other women to consider donating excess milk to those in need.

Jen said: 'A lot of the time you get women whose babies are in neo-natal units and aren't eligible for NHS donor milk.

'Honestly, I love reading the responses on the page because there are so many people who are willing to help out. It's a supportive community.

'The good work that milk sharing websites and pages do is amazing.

'They are global and I don't think there's enough said about them.

'You can even donate to hospitals if your baby is under six-months-old and it's all done professional. Sometimes they'll ever come and pick up the milk for you.

'The World Health Organisation actually recommends donated milk from a milk bank is tried before formula.'
Even the most resilient shoppers need to steel themselves before venturing into an IKEA store.

A shopping trip the flat-pack furniture emporium can soon become overwhelming, with crowds of customers dutifully following the arrow path through the maze of model rooms, brown boxes and easy-to-grab accessories.

But now one IKEA employee has offered a lifeline to baffled shoppers, revealing five hacks to make the most of their trip - including the best time of day to visit if you want to avoid queues at the check-out.

Posting on an Ask Me Anything thread on Reddit, the employee, who has worked for an IKEA store in the UK for the last 20 months, also offered a look at what life is like for employees behind-the-scenes, from discounts to common complaints...

Beat the queues: An IKEA employee said shoppers should aim to be at checkout from between 30 minutes to an hour after opening

Best time to shop

While many might think shopping first thing in the morning is the best way to beat the queues and congestion, the employee, who uses the screen name algren123, said this was not the case.

'I work at a store in the UK, and I see a lot of people coming in before the store isn't even open to be first,' the user posted. 'The funny part is that they create a rush.

'The best time to go towards the checkout for no queue is 30 minutes to an hour after opening.'

Shoppers should also do all they can to avoid going on weekends, as this is when stores are busiest.

Behind-the-scenes: The employee revealed the fastest way to reach customer services

Best food deals

The employee also weighed in on the best deals to get at any IKEA restaurant, which are famed for their Swedish meatballs and snack food.

Algren123 wrote: 'I dont know the US prices, but in UK, I always go for the meatballs, 15 meatballs and chips is around 5, which is quite a good offer, as for example, a big mac meal in McDonald's is 4.20.'

EMPLOYEE PERKS The user revealed all employees receive a 15 per cent discount on 'everything' in the store, from food to furniture. The user continued: 'Also, during shift time, 15 meatballs + chips, with a salad and drink would cost us 90p which is around 1 dollar and a bit.' Advertisement

Missing pieces

For those who think they are alone in having to traipse back to the store to collect a bag of missing screws, fret not, dozens of customers do the same thing every day.

The employee wrote: 'In around 6 hours, we have 8-9 cases, which ranges from 1-3 screws to a whole bag.'

Secret shortcuts

Returning an item to IKEA might sound like a mammoth task but in reality it can be a straightforward process, the employee revealed.

Customers do not need to walk all the way through the store for returns or queries - there is a shortcut straight to the customer services desk.

The employee explained: 'As soon as you go in the store after the Welcome Host desk (the co-worker that hands out the yellow bags) there is a shortcut that takes you straight to the Customer Returns department.'
She is well known for her love of trousers but in light of the heatwave Queen Letizia switched up her tailored look for a summer skirt on Monday.

The Spanish royal looked cool in every sense of the word as she arrived at the Prado National Museum in Madrid this afternoon.

On the arm of her husband King Felipe VI the 44-year-old looked to be in high spirits as the royal couple shared a joke.

Queen Letizia swapped up her usual tailored look for a flirty summer skirt as she and husband King Felip VI arrived at the Prado National Museum in Madrid on Monday

All eyes were on the glamorous mother-of-two as she arrived in the Spanish capital today.

Showcasing her flair for designer fashions Letizia opted for an elegant cream jacket from Hugo Boss paired with a matching pleated skirt.

Letizia dazzled in a cream fitted jacket from Hugo Boss paired with a pleated summer skirt for her engagement today

The couple appeared to be in high spirits as they arrived at the museum in the Spanish capital for the 'Art of Educating' (El Arte de Educar) event

The former-journalist chose a higher shoe than we would normally see her in, in the form of a nude sling-back with a stiletto heel complemented by a matching clutch.

She finished her look with a touch of bling with a pair of tear drop earrings made from semi-precious stones.

Meanwhile King Felipe looked dapper in a grey suit complete with an earth coloured tie and a pair of casual brown brogues.

They met with a group of local school children who were being given a tour of the museum

The royal couple posed with the excitable group before some of the museums most famous artworks including g Las Meninas painted by Diego Velazquez, seen here

While museums require visitors to keep the noise down, in the presence of royalty the school group couldn't help but be lively

The King and Queen of Spain visited the museum on Monday to attend the 'Art of Educating' (El Arte de Educar) event.

The royal couple met with a group of excitable school children who looked thrilled to meet them.

They then posed for a group photo before the museums artworks including Las Meninas painted by Diego Velazquez.

Upon their arrival on Monday the King and Queen of Spain were greeted by officials outside the museum before making their way inside
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A series of photos gives a harrowing look at the lives of inmates detained at Israel's only women's prison.

Nerve Triza, located in Ramle, houses more than 200 prisoners whose ages range from 18 to 70 years old. They represent a small fraction of Israel's total prison population, which is estimated between 20,000 and 25,000 inmates.

Photographer Tomer Ifrah, based in Tel Aviv, gained access to the facility in 2011 while on an assignment with a reporter. His original task only required him to photograph a single prisoner, but after talking with Nerve Triza's inmates, Ifrah returned to do his own work.

Detained: A series of photos gives a harrowing look at the lives of inmates detained at Israel's only women's prison. Nerve Triza, located in Ramle, houses more than 200 prisoners whose ages range from 18 to 70 years old

Context: The inmates at Nerve Triza represent only a small fracture of Israel's total prison population, which is estimated between 20,000 and 25,000 detainees. Photographer Tomer Ifrah , based in Tel Aviv, gained access to the facility in 2011

Living conditions: Ifrah's photos show inmates crammed into small crowded cells and sharing small spaces. In 1979, a former inmate gave an alarming account of overcrowding at the facility to a United Nations committee

Perpetuating: Most of the facility's inmates are serving their second or third sentences are are trapped in a 'vicious cycle' according to Ifrah, who spent one day per week with them over the course of three months

For three months, the photographer spent one day a week inside the women's-only prison, and gained more insight into the inmates' life stories.

'The prisoners come from diverse social backgrounds, and mostly belong to powerless minorities,' he said in a statement to Prison Photography. 'They must share their lives in close quarters. Most women in Neve Tirza Prison are serving their second or third terms there, trapped in a vicious cycle.'

Ifrah's photos show inmates crammed into small crowded cells, sharing small spaces and sleeping on bunk beds.

In 1979, former Neve Tirza detainee Rasmiah Odeh, a Palestinian woman convicted in two bombings, testified in front of a United Nations committee on Israel and human rights.

Odeh gave an alarming account of overcrowding at Nerve Triza and recounted seeing 150 detainees sharing a cell, some of them with their own children.

Space: Ifrah found the prison to be 'very crowded' if 'compared to other jails in which each prisoner has his or her own cell'

Tough: 'Neve Tirza is a very difficult place to be. It is a very intense place. The atmosphere is not easy. It's so small,' Ifrah said

Beliefs: Women are held together regardless of their religious background. A former inmate's account to the United Nations mentions tense relations between Jewish and Muslim detainees

Effort: As far as rehabilitation efforts for released prisoners, Ifrah believes the staff are 'doing their best', but don't feel they can truly help the inmates to prepare for life after their release

Prisoners, according to Odeh's account, prisoners were deprived of their freedom of expression, couldn't write down their feelings, and saw their notes confiscated if they did. She also said inmates had no freedom of worship, and described tense relations between Jewish and Muslim detainees.

Collective punishments, according to Odeh's 1979 testimony, were frequent and included beatings, being sprayed with gas, being deprived of visits, and getting transferred to another facility or cell.

Nowadays, Ifrah found the prison to be 'very crowded' when 'compared to other jails in which each prisoner has his or her own cell'.

'The women are kept six to a cell in some of the segments. Just imagine going into a very small cell and you have to live with five others? Most of the time  from 7pm until morning  the doors are closed,' he said. 'Outside of those times, you can go outside, but even then it is very crowded. Imagine the conflicts between prisoners in such a small place?'

Describing the prison, he said: 'Neve Tirza is a very difficult place to be. It is a very intense place. The atmosphere is not easy. It's so small.'

Background: 'Most of them are ethnic minorities and were not born on Israeli soil. Some come from Russia, Ethiopia, or South America,' Ifrah said of the inmates represented in his photos

Access: Ifrah's original task only required him to photograph a single prisoner, but after talking with Nerve Triza's inmates, he returned to do his own work and got to know more about them

The women of Neve Tirza, according to Ifrah, are held together regardless of their social background, religion or culture. 'Most of them are ethnic minorities and were not born on Israeli soil. Some come from Russia, Ethiopia, or South America,' he told Refinery29.

As far as rehabilitation efforts for released prisoners, Ifrah believes the staff are 'doing their best', but don't feel they can truly help the inmates.

'There also is a lot of criticism because most of the people in Neve Tirza are not supposed to be in jail; they are supposed to be in psychiatric hospitals, possibly,' he added.

'When you're inside there you understand that immediately. A big percentage of the women have mental disorders. If you put people who are unhealthy in their minds together it can be hell for them.'

Ifrah's images and accounts contrast with another set of photos taken in 2014, which depict the first fashion show hosted by inmates at Neve Tirza.

Change: Ifrah's images and accounts contrast with another set of photos taken in 2014, which depict the first fashion show hosted by inmates at Neve Tirza (pictured)

Project: The show began as part of a rehabilitative project meant to grant inmates skills they might use upon their release. It was also meant to restore their self-confidence following an extended period in jail

Creations: The clothes were embellished with neon flowers, animal prints and geometric shapes. One grey sleeveless dress bore a prison serial number (pictured)

Group work: Beyond the fashion designers, other inmates also took part. Prisoners studying makeup application or hairdressing at the jail joined in to style the models, who wore white avant-garde streaks on their cheeks

Show: Once dressed, the models, pictured standing in line to take part in the fashion show, paraded down a red carpet lined by prison fencing topped by rolls of barbed wire

The show began as part of a rehabilitative project meant to grant inmates skills they might use upon their release. It was also meant to restore their self-confidence following an extended period in jail.

'The intention was to give real tools and create something that is new and through fashion to create a better society,' said Yaniv Schwartz, who manages business development for Studio 6B, the Israeli design school behind the fashion show.

The prisoners, working with students from Studio 6B, created collections inspired by anything from British military to Indian religious symbols. The clothes were embellished with neon flowers, animal prints and geometric shapes. One grey sleeveless dress bore a prison serial number.

Beyond the fashion designers, other inmates also took part. Prisoners studying makeup application or hairdressing at the jail joined in to style the models, who wore white avant-garde streaks on their cheeks. Once dressed, the models paraded down a red carpet lined by prison fencing topped by rolls of barbed wire.
Ivanka Trump's children may be on summer vacation, but the mother-of-three was headed back to work on Monday after a spending a weekend away.

The 35-year-old looked elegant in a royal blue sheath dress as she stepped out of her Washington, D.C. home with her three-year-old son Joseph in tow.

Ivanka accessorized her ladylike ensemble with large pearl earrings and sunglasses, wearing her long blond hair up in a messy bun at the top of her head.

Ivanka Trump was photographed leaving her Washington, D.C. home on Monday morning

The 35-year-old mom had her three-year-old son Joseph with her as she stepped out the side gate of her residence

Ivanka helped guide her son towards the SUV that was waiting outside their home

The first daughter also paid homage to her clothing and accessories line, sporting $135 nude heels and a $225 nude handbag from her eponymous brand.

Although it's unclear where she was going with her son, who had finished school a few weeks before, the little boy looked ready to play in a Ralph Lauren striped polo shirt, navy Ralph Lauren shorts, and Velcro sneakers.

At one point, Joseph looked upset and he clung to his mom when they first walked out the door together.

Ivanka was holding her little boy's hand before she escorted him towards the SUV that was waiting outside for them.

While Ivanka and her eldest son were seen leaving the side gate of their home, her husband Jared Kushner was photographed walking out the front door, carrying a pile of files and folders under his arm.

The mother-of-three looked elegant in a royal blue dress, which she paired with nude accessories

The first daughter donned large pearl earrings and sunglasses, wearing her hair in a messy bun at the top of her head

Ivanka flashed a brief smile as she closed the side gate of her home as she left for the day

Although she is known to wear dresses from her own collection, Ivanka's royal blue sheath dress is by designer Jason Wu

Ivanka paired her elegant frock with $225 nude handbag and $135 nude heels, both from eponymous line

The 36-year-old adviser to President Donald Trump donned a gray suit, white button-down, and a blue tie, flashing a quick smile at the photographers waiting for him as he stepped inside the SUV that was at the curb.

Ivanka watched her husband speak at the inaugural meeting of the American Technology Council, which was held in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next door to the White house on Monday afternoon.

The White House Office of American Innovation is hosting a series of working sessions to generate ideas to transform and modernize government services.

The opening session of the meeting with CEOs in the technology sector marked the start of 'technology week', and Ivanka was photographed listening intently to Jared as he addressed the audience.

On Friday, Ivanka's assistants were seen loading bags into an SUV, and the family presumably celebrated Father's Day at their summer home in New Jersey.

Ivanka's husband Jared Kushner flashed a smile as he left their house separately on Monday morning

The 36-year-old adviser to President Trump was photographed carrying a pile of files and folders under his arm as he walked out the front door of his house

Ivanka watched her husband speak at the opening session of the White House meeting with technology sector CEOs to mark 'technology week'

Jared is pictured welcoming company leaders to a summit of the American Technology Council while speaking at the podium

The proud wife and doting daughter took to her social media pages on Sunday to wish both her husband Jared and her dad a happy Father's Day.

Sharing a picture of her and Jared with their three young children, Ivanka praised her husband for having such a wonderful influence on all of their lives.

'Happy Father's Day to my amazing husband -- Arabella, Joseph and Theodore's sweet dad,' she wrote.

'Thank you, Jared, for loving, encouraging, and teaching them (and me!) everyday. We love you very much! #happyfathersday #fathersday.'

Hours later Ivanka acknowledged her father on social media, sharing a photo of President Trump standing in-between her and Jared.

'What an amazing year it has been for us all. Happy #FathersDay to these two incredible dads!' she wrote alongside the image.

Ivanka is pictured arriving at the meeting, which was held in the Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next door to the White House

Ivanka and Jared are both advisers to her father, President Donald Trump

Ivanka was photographed listening intently to Jared as he addressed the audience

Although Jared works as a senior adviser for his father-in-law, he rarely speaks in public

First Lady Melania Trump also shared a short message to her husband on social media later Sunday afternoon, posting an image of the president with their 11-year-old son Barron to Instagram.

'Happy Father's Day @Potus,' she simply captioned the image, ending the short message with a heart emoji.

Ivanka's half-sister Tiffany, Trump's only child with his ex-wife Marla Maples, posted a throwback snapshot of her and her father when she was a little girl, writing: 'Happy Father's Day @realdonaldtrump!'

However, their brother Donald Trump Jr. was the first to wish their dad a Happy Father's Day, taking to Twitter early Sunday morning to praise their dad.

'Happy Father's Day dad. Thanks for everything you've taught us and for fighting everyday to #maga. We love you. #fathersday', he wrote while sharing two photos.

Ivanka to social media on Sunday to wish her husband a Happy Father's Day, sharing a photo of her and Jared with their three children

Ivanka returned to social media at 2:34pm to honor both Jared and her father, writing: 'Happy #FathersDay to these two incredible dads!'

Donald Trump Jr. recognized their father by sharing two photos of them together, writing: 'We love you'

Ivanka's half-sister Tiffany Trump posted a throwback photo of her and her dad, writing: 'Happy Father's Day @realdonaldtrump!'

First Lady Melania Trump also shared a message for her husband on social media Sunday afternoon

The first snap shows him standing alongside his father who is sitting in a chair in front of what appears to be the boardroom featured on NBC's The Apprentice.

The second image sees the president wearing a bathrobe while holding his oldest child as an infant.

Earlier Sunday morning, roughly an hour after she initially sent warm wishes to Jared, Ivanka's brother, Donald Trump Jr., took to Twitter recognizing their father. He was the first of the president's children to acknowledge him on social media for the occasion, as he is the oldest of them all.

'Happy Father's Day dad. Thanks for everything you've taught us and for fighting everyday to #maga. We love you. #fathersday', he wrote while sharing two photos to the popular site.

The first snap he shared shows him standing alongside his father who is sitting in a chair in front of what appears to be the boardroom featured on NBC's The Apprentice.

The president took to Twitter early Sunday morning, but he did not share a father's day message. Instead, he wrote three tweets discussing his agenda and his approval ratings

The 71-year-old leader shared the tweets in the early hours of Sunday morning during his first trip to Camp David in Maryland

He claimed that a new poll shows he had a 50 per cent approval rating in his final message on Twitter during the early morning exchange

The president flew to Camp David, the government-owned retreat in Maryland's Catoctin Mountains, for the first time on Saturday alongside his wife and son Barron

The second image is shows Trump wearing a bathrobe while holding his oldest child as an infant.

Although the president also took Twitter early Sunday morning, he did not share a father's day message.

Instead, the 71-year-old wrote three tweets discussing his agenda and his approval ratings, while comparing himself to his predecessor.

'The MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN agenda is doing very well despite the distraction of the Witch Hunt. Many new jobs, high business enthusiasm,..' the president wrote in his first tweet.

'...massive regulation cuts, 36 new legislative bills signed, great new S.C.Justice, and Infrastructure, Healthcare and Tax Cuts in works!

'The new Rasmussen Poll, one of the most accurate in the 2016 Election, just out with a Trump 50% Approval Rating.That's higher than O's #'s!'
After three days of cultural activities and official royal appearances in Denmark, Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito has now enjoyed a lunch at Fredensborg Palace.

Ahead of the lunch, Crown Princess Mary, Prince Frederik and Queen Margrethe of Denmark took a moment to pose with their guest on the palace steps in Copenhagen.

Princess Mary, 45, looked effortlessly chic as she smiled for media in a stunning georgette blouse and matching mini skirt by Danish fashion brand Ganni.

After three days of cultural activities and official royal appearances in Denmark, Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito (second from right) has now enjoyed a lunch at Fredensborg Palace

Ahead of the lunch, Crown Princess Mary, Prince Frederik and Queen Margrethe of Denmark took a moment to pose with their guest on the palace steps

Princess Mary, 45, looked effortlessly chic as she smiled for media in a stunning georgette blouse and matching mini skirt by Danish fashion brand Ganni

The Australian-born royal accessorised the two-piece set with a pair of elegant caramel suede pumps, gold hoop earrings and a matching leaf ring.

The princess wore her hair swept back lightly to keep the look appropriate for the more casual daytime event.

Both Prince Frederik, 49, and Crown Prince Naruhito opted for a more formal vibe in suits with blue ties while the ever-stylish Queen Margrethe wore a dress and matching blazer in her signature colour, pink.

Both Prince Frederik and Crown Prince Naruhito emitted a more formal vibe in suits with blue ties while the ever-stylish Queen Margrethe wore a dress and matching blazer in her signature colour, pink

The group were all smiles as they patiently posed for their photo opportunity, with Queen Margrethe looking particularly animated as she laughed with Japan's future sovereign

The group were all smiles as they patiently posed for their photo opportunity, with Queen Margrethe looking particularly animated as she laughed with Japan's future sovereign.

On Monday evening, the Crown Prince Couple also hosted a dinner for their guest in at Frederik VIII's Palace, Amalienborg Palace.

It's been a busy few days for Princess Mary and Prince Frederik, who have been accompanying Crown Prince Naruhito to a number of events.

His visit to Denmark celebrates the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Denmark and Japan and the royal couple are patrons of the anniversary celebration.

The princess wore her hair pulled back lightly to keep the look appropriate for the more casual daytime event

It's been a busy few days for Princess Mary and Prince Frederik, who have been accompanying Crown Prince Naruhito to a number of events

On Friday, the pair took some time out to join the Crown Prince at a concert in Copenhagen.

The 45-year-old princess looked elegant as she arrived at the at the Royal Playhouse in a beautiful off the shoulder knit dress by Alexander McQueen.

The black and ivory dress, which retails for more than $1,000, featured woven stripes and was paired with patent leather T-bar pumps by Gianvito Rossi.

She accessorised her look with a simple black Sergio Rossi clutch.

The 45-year-old princess looked elegant as she arrived at the at the Royal Playhouse in a beautiful off the shoulder knit dress by Alexander McQueen

The black and ivory dress, which retails for more than $1,000, featured woven stripes and was paired with patent leather T-bar pumps by Gianvito Rossi

Mary arrived at the venue with her husband and was snapped all smiles as she and Frederik mingled with the Prince in the foyer

They then ventured inside to enjoy a concert of traditional Japanese music together

Mary arrived at the venue with her husband and was snapped all smiles as she and Frederik mingled with the Prince in the foyer.

They then ventured inside to enjoy a concert of traditional Japanese music together at the Koto Harmonic Tone concert.

The koto, a traditional Japanese string instrument, was performed by musicians from the Tokyo University of the Arts.

The couple greeted the prince at the airport on June 15 ahead of his six day visit.

Ever the appropriate dresser, Mary got it sartorially right once again when she sported an oriental-inspired floral Erdem gown to meet the Crown Prince of Japan with her husband of 13 years.

The couple greeted the prince at the airport on June 15 ahead of his six day visit to the Denmark to celebrate 150 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries

Ever the appropriate dresser, Mary got it sartorially right once again when she sported an oriental-inspired floral Erdem gown to meet the Crown Prince

At one point, Mary appeared momentarily distracted, staring downwards with her hands clasped across her beige handbag and gloves

At one point, Mary appeared momentarily distracted, staring downwards with her hands clasped across her beige handbag and gloves, with Prince Frederik by her side.

Princess Mary kissed the Crown Prince on the cheek and shook him by the hand when she met him at the welcome ceremony.

Last week, the Japanese parliament passed a law allowing Prince Naruhito's father, Emperor Akihito, to become the first monarch to abdicate in 200 years.

For the regal occasion, Princess Mary donned a pretty sheer overlay gown which featured a nipped-in waist, chiffon layer and flowing skirt.

Prince Frederik sported a navy blue suit, maroon tie and shirt - and stood with his arms crossed behind his back

For the regal occasion, Princess Mary donned a pretty sheer overlay gown which featured a nipped-in waist, chiffon layer and flowing skirt

Princess Mary kissed the Crown Prince on the cheek and shook him by the hand when she met him at the welcome ceremony at Copenhagen Airport

The stylish royal completed her outfit with her trademark pearl drop earrings, a nude clutch bag and her nude stilettos.

She also wore a fascinator in her hair, which was tied up in a neat chignon.

As one of the world's oldest monarchies, Prince Naruhito's Danish visit is an illustrious one.

The last time the Japanese Crown Prince visited Denmark was in 2004, at the nuptials of the Danish Crown Prince and Australian-born Crown Princess.
Pregnant women can be put at risk of the potentially fatal condition pre-eclampsia by their own baby's DNA, a study has found.

The findings help to solve the puzzle of what causes pre-eclampsia, or high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can affect one in 20 expecting mothers.

Those who have it can also find they have fits and blackouts, as well as vomiting in the later stages of pregnancy.

Complications, which start in the second half of pregnancy, include high blood pressure, swollen feet, hands and face as well as stomach pain.

While blood pressure treatments can help, the most effective solution is to deliver the baby.

The findings help to solve the puzzle of what causes pre-eclampsia, or high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can affect one in 20 expecting mothers

While it was known that the condition is often inherited, scientists have now identified genes carried by the baby which is causing their mothers to get ill.

Hope for the future

It is hoped that by knowing more about the genes it will enable doctors to identify mothers most at risk.

The placenta  the organ that attaches the foetus to the mother's womb  is created by the baby.

Certain genes can mean the placenta leaks. The result is a protein produced in the placenta that is meant to help the foetus grow ends up in the mother's bloodstream.

This can damage blood vessels, and other organs, causing the heart to pump harder, increasing blood pressure.

What did the researchers say?

We found there were indeed some features in a baby's DNA that can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia Dr Linda Morgan, from the University of Nottingham

Dr Linda Morgan, from the University of Nottingham's School of Life Sciences, coordinated the 5-year study, which included DNA samples contributed from Iceland, Norway and Finland as well as from over 20 universities and maternity units in the UK.

Dr Morgan said: 'For many years midwives and obstetricians have known that a woman is more likely to develop pre-eclampsia if her mother or sister had the disorder.

'More recently research has shown that the condition also runs in the families of men who father pre-eclamptic pregnancies.

'We knew that faulty formation of the placenta is often found in pre-eclampsia. As it is the baby's genes that produce the placenta we set out to see if we could find a link between the baby's DNA and the condition.

'We found there were indeed some features in a baby's DNA that can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia.'

Dr Linda Morgan, from the University of Nottingham, said: 'We found there were indeed some features in a baby's DNA that can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia'

How was the study carried out?

Analysis of the genes of babies whose mothers suffered pre-eclampsia were analysed and compared to babies whose mothers did not suffer the condition.

The researchers identified the protein that is causing the damage: called sFlt-1.

When released from the placenta into the mother, the protein causes damage to blood vessels, as well as the kidneys, liver and brain.

THE TEST TO STOP PREMATURE BIRTHS Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia could be spared from needlessly having their baby delivered prematurely, thanks to a test developed by UK doctors. Queen Mary University of London researchers made a series of tests, which when analysed with a computer programme can tell with 84 per cent accuracy whether a mother is at immediate risk. This enables them to make an informed decision about whether to deliver the baby or whether the mother can safely be discharged and just monitored for problem. The programme, funded by the research arm of the NHS and tested in 50 UK hospitals, is now to be turned into a smartphone app, enabling it to be widely used. Advertisement

Babies with variations of the genes that produce this protein were more likely to be pre-eclampsic.

'First piece of the genetic jigsaw'

Dr Ralph McGinnis, who led the analysis at the Sanger Institute, said: 'Pre- eclampsia has been recognized since ancient Egypt and Greece as being a danger to the lives of mothers and babies.

'This first piece of the genetic jigsaw holds substantial promise for unlocking some of the mystery of how pre-eclampsia is caused.

'Our finding may also enable better prediction of mothers who will become pre-eclamptic when combined with clinical information and with other pieces of the genetic jigsaw that will also surely be discovered in the next few years.'

Over 50 per cent of people carry the gene sequence that can lead to the placenta becoming faulty.

Effective prevention

Dr Morgan added: 'Because pre-eclampsia has its origins in the very early stages of pregnancy, during the formation of the placenta, research into the causes and processes of the disease has always been challenging.

'Now modern genome wide screening and its data analysis allows us to look for clues in the mother's, father's and their baby's DNA.

'We believe the new insights from this study could form the basis for more effective prevention and treatment of pre-eclampsia in the future, and improve the outcome of pregnancy for mother and child.'

The main risk factors for preeclampsia are multiple pregnancy, a history of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease or organ transplant, first pregnancy or obesity. Around 38,000 mothers in the UK suffer from the condition every year.
Doodlers rejoice - new research shows drawing and colouring triggers the brain to produce feelings of pleasure, even in the absence of skill.

Researchers monitored the brains of participants as they engaged in three different types of art, including colouring, doodling and free-drawing.

The scientists found that all three tasks cause an increase in blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, a region that contains the reward centre.

Increased activity in this part of the brain during art-making suggests the activity may trigger the brain's reward centre, according to scientists.

Doodling led to the greatest blood flow increase in the prefrontal cortex, followed by free-drawing and colouring.

Scroll down for video

Research shows doodling and colouring triggers the brain to produce feelings of pleasure

DOODLING ENHANCES YOUR MEMORY Researchers found that simply drawing pictures of what you need to remember will help you recall twice as much information, compared to just writing the words out. Using this technique 'creates a more cohesive memory trace that better integrates visual, motor and semantic information,' according to a study published in 2016. The researchers explain that the process of drawing words entails at least four components to boost memory: elaboration, visual imagery, motor action and pictorial representation. In order to transfer a word into a drawn visual representation, we first create some physical characteristics of the item (elaboration), create a visual image of the item (visual imagery), engage in the actual hand movements needed for drawing (motor action). Advertisement

What did the study find?

'This shows that there might be inherent pleasure in doing art activities independent of the end results,' said Girija Kaimal, assistant professor Drexel University in Philadelphia.

'Sometimes, we tend to be very critical of what we do because we have internalized, societal judgements of what is good or bad art and, therefore, who is skilled and who is not.

'We might be reducing or neglecting a simple potential source of rewards perceived by the brain

'And this biologocial proof could potentially challenge some of our assumptions about ourselves.'

How was the research conducted?

The study involved 26 adults between the age of 18 and 70, eight of whom were artists.

Each participant had their brain activity monitored as they took part in colouring, doodling or free drawing for three minutes at a time.

Their brains were analysed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, an imaging technique used to monitor blood flow.

Scientists found all three activities led to an increase in blood flow in the prefrontal cortex.

This occurred no matter how artistic the participants considered themselves to be.

Examples of doodling from the study. In the study, each participants had their brain activity monitored as they took part in colouring, doodling or free drawing for three minutes at a time

Examples of colouring from the study. Scientists found all three art-making activities led to an increase in blood flow in the prefrontal cortex, which contains the brain's reward centre

The brain's reward centre

The prefrontal cortex is known to house the brain's reward centre, as well to play a role in controlling emotions.

Increased blood flow in this brain region suggests doodling and other forms of art-making trigger the reward complex, releasing feelings of happiness.

'There are several implications of this study's findings,' Professor Kaimal said.

'They indicate an inherent potential for evoking positive emotions through art-making - and doodling especially.

'Doodling is something we all have experience with and might re-imagine as a democratising, skill independent, judgement-free pleasurable activity.'

The research was published in the journal The Arts in Psychotherapy.
Scientists are developing a nasal spray to combat HIV after discovering how the virus spreads through the brain.

A team of Canadian researchers are working to create this new method of distributing antiretroviral therapy drugs so it can reach the brain faster.

Their new study presents the first model to predict the growth and progression of HIV, allowing researchers to see how the disease spreads through the brain.

Now they hope their findings can lead to a more effective treatment, which will decrease an active infection in the brain.

Canadian researchers created the first model to predict the growth of an HIV infection in the brain. They are developing a nasal spray that they hope will lead to a more effective treatment. pictured: HIV traveling through the bloodstream

The groundbreaking study was conducted by researchers at the University of Alberta as a joint effort between the mathematical and statistical science and neurology departments.

The scientists created a model that can track the progression and development of an HIV infection in the brain.

Previously, experts could only study brain infection at autopsy.

The researchers now believe they can provide an estimate of how the HIV-infected brain will develop and use this information to eliminate the virus from the brain.

Weston Roda, a PhD student at the university, said: 'The nature of the HIV virus allows it to travel across the blood-brain barrier in infected macrophage - or white blood cell - as early as two weeks after infection.

'Antiretroviral drugs, the therapy of choice for HIV, cannot enter the brain so easily.

'The more we understand and can target treatment toward viral reservoirs, the closer we get to developing total suppression strategies for HIV infection.'

HIV IS IN TWO TYPES OF BLOOD CELLS Scientists have confirmed HIV can survive in another less-explored type of white blood cell. Until the April discovery, treatment and cure research has focused on blocking the virus from T-cells, a type of white blood cell that is key to the immune system. However, research by the University of North Carolina reveals the virus can also persist exclusively in macrophages, large white blood cells found in the liver, lung, bone marrow and brain. The breakthrough discovery could explain why - despite monumental advances in suppressing the virus - no treatment has successfully cured anyone of the disease. 'These results are paradigm changing because they demonstrate that cells other than T cells can serve as a reservoir for HIV,' said Dr Jenna Honeycutt, lead-author and postdoctoral research associate in the UNC Division of Infectious Diseases. Advertisement

The researchers were able to create the model after examining data from patients who died five to 15 years after they were infected.

Experts then used this data in conjunction with the known biological processes of HIV.

Roda added: 'Our next steps are to understand other viral reservoirs, like the gut, and develop models similar to this one, as well as understand latently infected cell populations in the brain.

'With the antiretroviral therapy, infected cells can go into a latent stage. The idea is to determine the size of the latently infected population so that clinicians can develop treatment strategies.'

Researchers from Yale, University of California, San Francisco and North Carolina Universities previously found there was some evidence of brain damage from early HIV infection.

They stated this could worsen over time if people didn't take antiretroviral treatment but said these effects could be reversed with the medicine.

Other research suggests the virus can still affect the brain even if there was undetectable levels of HIV in the blood.

HIV treatments have advanced to the extent that a daily regimen of pills can make the virus undetectable and untransmittable.

Roughly 30 percent of America's 1.2 million people with HIV have reached an undetectable viral load.

A person with HIV becomes 'undetectable' when treatment targeting T-cells suppresses the virus to a level so low in their blood that it cannot be detected by measurements.

If a person is undetectable and stays on treatment, they cannot pass HIV on to a partner. No study has ever shown HIV transmission from someone with an undetectable viral load.

To date, an undetectable load is almost always achieved with daily doses of antiretroviral drugs.
For almost 30 years the mammogram has been regarded as the gold standard for breast cancer screening, but now scientists are to test a new option that may be more accurate and less uncomfortable.

For the fact is the mammogram, while credited with saving 1,300 lives each year in the UK, is not without its drawbacks.

First, as it is an X-ray, it means the checks are normally limited to one every three years due to concerns about radiation exposure.

Mammograms are credited with saving 1,300 lives a year in the UK with its drawbacks

It is also notoriously uncomfortable, involving the breast being squeezed between two X-ray plates. Its image is not crystal-clear and this can lead to false positives, meaning women are sent for needless biopsies.

Furthermore, research presented at the European Breast Cancer conference earlier this year suggested that mammograms miss tumours in as many as one in six cases.

Missed diagnosis is a particular issue for the one in four women with dense (more fibrous) breast tissue as this is harder for the X-ray to penetrate. These are mainly younger women, as after the menopause much of the dense tissue (needed for milk production) turns to fat, which is less dense.

Now government-backed scientists are testing a new pain-free way to screen for breast cancer that involves a form of ultrasound administered while the breast is suspended in a bath of warm water  it is hoped this will give such clear images it may be able to detect cancer early, even in women with dense breast tissue.To have the test the woman lies face down on a special table with openings for the breast to rest in warm water. The water helps the ultrasound waves travel.

The ultrasound consists of 14 beams that produce an image similar to a more sophisticated MRI image. The readings can be colour-coded to present a map of characteristics including healthy or diseased tissue.

A new pain-free way to screen for breast cancer may see ultrasound administered while the breast is suspended in a bath of warm water

The test is being designed to be used at GP surgeries, doing away with the need for hospital visits.

And women could have it multiple times as ultrasound has an excellent safety record. The new test is being developed by the government-owned National Physical Laboratory, London, and is about to be trialled on 20 to 30 volunteers, women with various symptoms of breast disease, in a landmark clinical trial at Southmead Hospital, Bristol.

Some will have the new test, others standard mammography and ultrasound. Results will be compared after five months.

This is not the first alternative to mammograms to be tried. Already some women are being offered another form of ultrasound to try to verify whether a lump spotted on an MRI is a cyst or a tumour. Meanwhile, a 3D mammogram is facing more trials after initial tests found it may be more accurate.

The test is being developed in London and will be trialed on 20 to 30 volunteers

Another option is thermography, in which a camera takes images based on the heat of the tissue. Tumours are hotter than healthy tissue, so show up on the image.

However, it is not available on the NHS and some research has found the camera does not always distinguish between benign and malignant tumours.

Mark Hodnett, a senior research scientist, who is part of the NPL team developing the new warm bath test, says it has the potential to be a revolution in diagnosing breast cancer. The prevalence of cancer in young women is growing, but the mammogram is less able to pick up cancer in younger people, whereas ultrasound has the potential to give accurate images without exposure to radiation, he says.

The ultimate aim is to have the machine at doctors surgeries so that more of the population can be reached.

Currently women aged between 50 and 70 are offered mammograms every three years, with the programme being extended to women aged 47 to 73 in England  and it finds cancer in about eight out of every 1,000 cases.

Senior research scientists say the new warm bath test could be potentially 'revolutionary'

The NPL team believe the ultrasound approach will vastly improve scan image quality and make diagnosis more uniform, rather than relying on a clinicians judgment of a scan.

Ultimately, your diagnosis would be based on a measurement, not a picture that needs subjective interpretation, adds Hodnett.

Dr Emma Pennery, clinical director of the charity Breast Cancer Care, says the future prospect of a screening technique that could reduce the number of breast cancer false alarms is exciting.

It could mean women who dont have cancer are spared the anxiety of being told they might have it. It may also help spot cancer in women with denser breasts.

But she adds: It needs rigorous testing to ensure it is safe and can pick up breast cancers precisely.

At the moment, breast screening with mammograms remains the best way to detect cancer at the earliest possible stage.
Hands up who wants to tack to Torbay or chug gently to Oxford? Whether youre a salty sea dog or a first-time landlubber, Event has a trip for you...

1. OH BUOY! GIVE EM A BROADS-SIDE...

LEVEL Experienced, although novices can hire a skipper or sign up for a training holiday.

For a short family yachting break on the Norfolk Broads, hire a boat from sailing holiday specialists Eastwood Whelpton

Once youre finished playing Swallows And Amazons, pootle back to Upton to drop off the boat

Horsey Windpump, up which you can scramble to get a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside, and Horsey beach, where grey seals bask on the shoreline

CLASSIC ROUTE For a short family yachting break on the Norfolk Broads, hire a boat from sailing holiday specialists Eastwood Whelpton. Opt for the three-day route heading north from the boatyard in the village of Upton to Thurne mouth. Continue north-east up to the serene Womack Water, Ludham village and popular boating centre Potter Heigham. Youll reach Hickling Broad nature reserve, where you can relax with, if youre lucky, only a few barn owls or red deer for company. Next, venture to the windswept Horsey Broad, which offers fantastic sailing. Once youre finished playing Swallows And Amazons, pootle back to Upton to drop off the boat.

DROP ANCHOR FOR Horsey Windpump, up which you can scramble to get a wonderful view of the surrounding countryside, and Horsey beach, where grey seals bask on the shoreline. Pubwise, the Nelson Head near Horsey is a solid option, or The Pleasure Boat Inn and The Greyhound in Hickling offer decent no-frills grub and local ale.

PRICE From 400 for three nights. eastwood-whelpton.co.uk

2. SET SAIL FOR THE SCOTS AYE-LANDS!

LEVEL Seasoned sailors (Royal Yachting Association Day Skipper qualification or above).

Charter a yacht in Oban and head west to Lochaline, before exploring the peaceful and remote Ardnamurchan peninsula and the wildlife-abundant Small Isles

The grand 19th-century mansion of Kinloch Castle on Rum

CLASSIC ROUTE This ten-day sailing adventure takes in white sandy beaches, majestic glens and characterful islands, zipping from beautiful Oban to the Outer Hebrides. Charter a yacht in Oban (try Alba Sailing, Argyll Yacht Charters or Isle of Skye Yachts) and head west to Lochaline, before exploring the peaceful and remote Ardnamurchan peninsula and the wildlife-abundant Small Isles. Skye is the next stop, with its towering mountain ranges and brooding castles. Then theres a chance to relax on the beaches of South Uist, before marvelling at prehistoric sites on North Uist and later reaching mystical Outer Hebridean island Lewis and Harris.

DROP ANCHOR FOR A cheeky dram in Ardnamurchan Distillery, the grand 19th-century mansion of Kinloch Castle on Rum, wild swimming (if temperatures permit) in Skyes magical Fairy Pools, the eerie burial cairn of Barpa Langais on North Uist and the refined fare served at the Digby Chick in Stornoway.

PRICE Around 2,000 for a 40ft yacht for a week. sailscotland.co.uk

3. FLOAT ON... TO THE DREAMING SPIRES

LEVEL All.

CLASSIC ROUTE Follow in Chris Evans wake by renting a boat from Berkshire-based Kris Cruisers and spending a week motor-boating to Oxford and back. It takes about two and a half days to reach the handsome university city; moor at the ancient market town of Wallingford on the way, where whodunit master Agatha Christie spent most of her adult life.

Follow in Chris Evans wake by renting a boat from Berkshire-based Kris Cruisers and spending a week motor-boating to Oxford and back

DROP ANCHOR FOR After visiting Oxfords numerous chapels and colleges, pay a trip to the citys Ashmolean Museum, which has wonderful trails for kids. Young boaters will also appreciate stops in Beale Park, Pangbourne, which has small herds of unusual farm animals, and the eternally exciting Legoland just outside Windsor.

PRICE From 729 for a 2-4 person boat. kriscruisers.co.uk

4. HOORAY FOR HENLEY!

LEVEL All

CLASSIC ROUTE Take the family for a gentle cruise around this dreamy stretch of the Thames, which hosts the world-famous annual rowing regatta (running this year from June 28-July 2). You can hire a range of vessels from Hobbs of Henley, from rowing boats and zippy four-seaters to stylish Dutch-made sloop 570s and lavish 12-seater Edwardian launches. From Hobbs, itll take around two hours in a motorboat to head downstream to the idyllic town of Marlow. Youll start by following the Royal Regatta course, eventually reaching Hambledon Lock. With Medmenham Abbey on your left as you continue, youll pass Hurley Lock and Temple Lock before arriving at Marlow. Alternatively, a couple of hours in the opposite direction will get you to the Berkshire village of Sonning, where George and Amal Clooney luxuriate in their 10 million home.

Take the family for a gentle cruise around this dreamy stretch of the Thames, which hosts the world-famous annual rowing regatta

You can hire a range of vessels from Hobbs of Henley, from rowing boats and zippy four-seaters to stylish Dutch-made sloop 570s and lavish 12-seater Edwardian launches

Make a reservation a few months ahead to bag a table at Tom Kerridges two- Michelin-starred pub The Hand & Flowers in Marlow

DROP THE ANCHOR FOR Make a reservation a few months ahead to bag a table at Tom Kerridges two- Michelin-starred pub The Hand & Flowers in Marlow (above), and look out for Temple Island, named after its fairytale 18th-century folly, during the journey there. A Sonning trip wends past former Viking settlements and a rustic countryside boozer, The St George & Dragon.

PRICE From 15 to 270 per hour hobbsofhenley.com

5. DEVON KNOWS ITS DREAMY

LEVEL All

CLASSIC ROUTE Dartmouth Boat Hire offers a range of swish vessels, including open-top cabin cruisers for two, large open boats (ideal for families) and fisherman boats, which include space for dogs. Rent one for the day and make the half-hour journey to Dartmouth Castle. Doubling back on yourself, pootle towards Dittisham, an unspoilt riverside village thats home to The Ferry Boat Inn and Anchor Stone cafe. A brief detour down a secluded riverside creek takes you to the quaint village of Tuckenhay, and then you can bob along to the medieval market town of Totnes.

Dartmouth Boat Hire offers a range of swish vessels, including open-top cabin cruisers for two, large open boats (ideal for families) and fisherman boats, which include space for dogs

DROP ANCHOR FOR Theres delicious wine and cheese proffered at Sharpham Vineyard, fish and chips at The Maltsters Arms in Tuckenhay and Dartmouth Castles gun tower, where wannabe warriors can try on helmets and inspect cannonballs.

PRICE From 150 for six hours. dartmouth-boat-hire.co.uk





6. KEEP ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW IN WALES

LEVEL Beginner

CLASSIC ROUTE Hire a ten-seater narrowboat from Llangollen Wharf and spend a day gliding quietly through the Welsh mountains. Setting off, youll have a fantastic view over the rooftops of Llangollen town before passing the medieval ruins of Dinas Bran Castle and eventually reaching Trevor Wharf, which was a busy commercial dockyard at the turn of the 19th century. The highlight of the trip is crossing Georgian engineer Thomas Telfords magnificent 1,000ft Pontscysyllte Aqueduct (pictured) as the River Dee glitters below. Head back once you reach the village of Froncysyllte. If you fancy a slice of nostalgia, sign up instead for Llangollen Wharfs two-hour horse-drawn excursion (family ticket 36).

Hire a ten-seater narrowboat from Llangollen Wharf and spend a day gliding quietly through the Welsh mountains

The highlight of the trip is crossing Georgian engineer Thomas Telfords magnificent 1,000ft Pontscysyllte Aqueduct (pictured) as the River Dee glitters below

DROP THE ANCHOR FOR Locomotive lovers shouldnt miss Llangollens heritage steam trains, while Downton Abbey fans can get a taste of upstairs-downstairs life in handsome Erddig Hall in nearby Wrexham.

PRICE 180 on weekends and bank holidays. horsedrawnboats.co.uk
By nominating Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the July 17 Presidential election, the BJP has once again signaled its intention to aggressively woo Dalits in the approach to the 2019 polls.

Kovind, who was president of BJPs scheduled caste (SC) cell from 1998 to 2002, is a Dalit and the ruling party sends out two distinct messages by nominating him. Firstly they seek to thank the Dalit community for their support, and secondly to tell them that they are genuinely concerned about their welfare.

As a Rajya Sabha MP, Kovind was member of the Parliamentary Committee for SC/ST Welfare. He was also a member of Management Board for Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow. If he wins, Kovind would be only the second Dalit President after KR Narayanan who had been elevated from the post of vice president in 1997.

Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, NDA's presidential candidate, waves at the media as he leaves for Delhi, at Raj Bhavan in Patna

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah have been continuously seeking to garner the support of the Dalits. They have also been successful in their attempt.

The BJP has twice upset the Mayawati-led BSPs applecart - first in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and subsequently, in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections held earlier this year.

In UP BJP won a massive 71 out of 80 Lok Sabha seats and 312 of 403 in the Assembly. Dalits constitute about 17 per cent of the highest populous state in the country.

Modi faces a tough fight for Dalit votes against several caste-based parties

Dr Ambedkar is the father of India's constitution

Promoting Kovind as President is an obvious strategy to win the Dalit vote in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Karnataka.

The BJP has been attaching immense importance to all symbols associated with Dalits and has been observing Babasaheb Ambedkars birth and death anniversaries with increased sincerity.

On his 126th birth anniversary this year, Modi visited Nagpur and inaugurated a series of development projects. Last year on the same day, Modi had visited Mhow in Madhya Pradesh. Mhow is the birthplace of Ambedkar. On April 20, 2015, he had laid the foundation stone of Dr Ambedkar International Centre in the Capital.

On November 14, 2015, he inaugurated BR Ambedkar Memorial in London. BJPs consistent efforts seem to be helping it wean away the Dalits from BSP and Congress.

Despite campaigns by the Opposition to discredit BJP over issues such as thrashing of Dalits by cow vigilantes in Gujarat and alleged suicide of Hyderabad University scholar Rohith Vemula, people of this community voted for the party in UP.

Nominating Ram Nath Govind is also an attempt to put a lid on such controversies.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has renewed her warning against the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which is spearheading the movement for a separate state of Gorkhaland in Darjeeling.

'They (GJM) are trying to create ethnic strife in Bengal. This is not right. I don't discriminate between people in the hills and those in the plains. I believe in working together with everyone. They should not play with fire,' Banerjee told reporters at the Kolkata airport on Monday morning before leaving for a three-day official tour to the Netherlands.

Mamata's warning comes at a time when there is no end in sight to the stand-off between the GJM and the state administration with the Morcha insisting only on a central government intervention.

On Monday, Morcha supporters once again took out protest rallies across Darjeeling and burnt Mamata's effigy and poster.

They blocked NH-31A at some places in Darjeeling to protest the deaths of their three activists on Saturday.

GJM supporters burn an effigy of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Kakjhora during their protest

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is fighting for a separate state of Gorkhaland

'Raids will continue. In fact, there will be raids tonight itself which will be on the basis of our intelligence inputs. Anybody disturbing the law and order situation in the hills would face tough handling by the police,' said a police officer.

Internet services remained suspended for the second day on Monday to stop the GJM activists from using the social media to spread provocative posts, police sources said.

Slamming the Trinamool Congress supremo, Morcha general secretary Roshan Giri said, 'Mamata Banerjee has called us terrorists. That Gorkha community which is protecting the country at the border with their own lives is being termed as terrorists.'

Indian Buddhist devotees hold candles as they take part in a vigil to pay respects to those killed in clashes with police during an indefinite strike in Darjeeling

And while a section of the Morcha leadership has begun questioning alliance partner BJP's passive response to the separate statehood demand, Giri reiterated that they hope there will be some 'concrete step' on the issue but informed that they have not received any assurance yet.

'We are not ready for talks with the West Bengal government. Mamata Banerjee has insulted us,' said GJM leader Binay Tamang.

When asked about the current agitation in Darjeeling, West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh tried distancing his party from the GJM stir.

'They are protesting for their issues. We only have an electoral alliance with them,' said Ghosh.

On Sunday, Morcha leader and Darjeeling MLA Amar Rai had spoken out against local BJP MP SS Ahluwalia for his absence from the hills during this hour of crisis.

'The MP should have been here Everyone feels the same. He should have been here in this hour of crisis. In a way, we are very disappointed,' Rai had told India Today.

Ahluwalia had won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat in 2014 with the active support of the Morcha. Though he did accompany the GJM delegation which met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi this week, he has so far stayed away from his constituency ever since the turmoil broke out.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has renewed her warning against the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which is spearheading the movement for a separate state of Gorkhaland in Darjeeling

Meanwhile, the Morcha has called for an all-party meeting in Darjeeling on Tuesday to chalk out the strategy to carry the movement forward. Interestingly, the current agitation has brought all hill-based Gorkha political outfits together, including arch rivals Gorkha National Liberation Front - an alliance partner of the Trinamool Congress in the state.

The Mamata government on the other hand has sent a report on the ongoing violence in Darjeeling to the Union Home Ministry, which has dispatched a contingent of 125 women security personnel to help restore peace in the hills.

Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi has also spoken to the state's chief secretary, who had demanded that two companies - 250 personnel - of women paramilitary personnel be sent there.
Darjeeling crisis turned violent on Sunday as thousands of protesters assembled at the central Chowkbazar carrying the body of a Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) activist, who was killed during clashes with police, and raised slogans demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland.

The reverberations of the unrest were felt in the national Capital too with Gorkhas on Sunday protesting against Mamata Banerjee and the West Bengal government at Jantar Mantar.

Hundreds of Gorkhas gathered at Jantar Mantar with national flags and banners stating, 'We want Gorkhaland'.

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is fighting for a separate state of Gorkhaland

Indian security forces fire tear gas canisters during clashes with supporters of the separatist Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) group in Darjeeling

Meanwhile, security personnel in large numbers were deployed in the hill district of West Bengal after widespread clashes between GJM activists and the police were witnessed on Saturday.

The protesters, also carrying black flags and the Tricolour, assembled at the Chowkbazar. They shouted slogans demanding that the police and security personnel be immediately removed from Darjeeling.

'We think the police and security personnel should be removed from Darjeeling to create conducive environment for talks. The government should allow us to carry out peaceful and democratic agitation,' Darjeeling MLA Amar Rai of the GJM said.

The GJM has claimed that two of their supporters were shot dead by police in Singmari yesterday. The police rejected the allegations of firing by its personnel, and said one person was killed during the clashes.

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is fighting for a separate state of Gorkhaland

The hills are famous for the Darjeeling tea whose production is jealously guarded

This was the first death since violent protests returned to Darjeeling on June 8, after a gap of a few years. On Saturday West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said the ongoing agitation in Darjeeling hills was a deep-rooted conspiracy supported by the insurgent groups of the Northeast and foreign countries.

The GJM had rubbished the allegation, saying that she was trying to malign the Gorkhas fighting for their identity.

The police, who have been on high alert after Saturday's violence and arson, conducted route marches with the Army in several parts of the hills. Several woman police personnel have also been deployed.

GJM supporters burn an effigy of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at Kakjhora during their protest
A stark North-South divide has opened up in the buy-to-let market as soaring property prices have made the South an unprofitable option for landlords, a study has claimed.

Out of 100 British towns and cities, the ten best buy-to-let locations are all in the North, while the ten worst are in the South, according to the data from property investment marketplace Property Partner.

Stoke-on-Trent is the UKs leading buy-to-let hotspot, with the best combination of house prices, local salaries and rental returns, the research claims.

North-South split: The research also shows a striking North-South divide with the ten places to get the most from your investment all in the North

The Staffordshire city ranks above Oldham in second and Liverpool in third,

An investor would need a deposit of 29,397 to secure the average buy-to-let purchase in Stoke-on-Trent on a loan-to-value of 75 per cent, and the average property price in the town is 117,586.

The annual rental yield is 5.67 per cent.

The rest of the top ten was made up of Leeds, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Stockton-on-Tees, Gateshead, Rotherham and Rochdale.

Prospective landlords in Poole face the most challenging investment in buy-to-let, where annual rental yield was 1.94 per cent, followed by Central London and then Sevenoaks.

Then comes Bournemouth, followed by Cambridge, Oxford, Winchester, St Albans, Chelmsford and Brighton.

Best value: The Staffordshire town offers the best combination of affordability and rental return in the UK for landlords

Property Partners study ranked Britains 100 major towns and cities, taking into account the average income, average property price and average rent in each area.

Investors can enter the buy-to-let market more easily if their income is relatively high compared to local property prices, and will earn a stronger rate of income return if those properties command high levels of rent relative to their price.

In the South, high demand has pushed up prices, resulting in high capital requirements to enter the market and weaker rental yields.

For income seeking buy-to-let investors, the research shows a telling correlation between low rental yield and investment inefficiency.

Leeds had the highest yield of all 100 towns and cities (6.92 per cent) and came in fourth overall.

Investment challenge: Prospective landlords in Poole face the most challenging investment in buy-to-let followed by Central London and then Sevenoaks

Four other places featured in both the top ten yielding towns/cities and the ten best places to become a landlord overall.

They were Gateshead (yielding 5.78 per cent), Stoke-on-Trent (5.67 per cent), Rochdale (5.6 per cent) and Newcastle (5.59 per cent).

The same pattern exists at the other end of the table.

Six of the most challenging areas to profit from buy-to-let are also among the ten lowest yielding areas.

They are Poole (1.94 per cent), Sevenoaks (2.48 per cent), Cambridge (2.51 per cent), Chelmsford (2.53 per cent), St Albans (2.55 per cent) and Bournemouth (2.68 per cent), all markets with high demand from owner occupiers prepared to pay premium prices for a popular location.

Dan Gandesha, founder of Property Partner, said: What our research reveals is a clear North-South divide in the investment opportunities facing buy-to-let landlords.

We have always been at pains to point out to investors that prime locations such as Kensington and Chelsea can offer some of the lowest yields available, because prices have raced ahead while rents have failed to keep pace.

It just goes to show, you shouldnt always follow the crowd and the right investment could be on your doorstep where there is far less overall demand.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles at Syrian terror bases in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by Islamic State.

The attack on Sunday was the first missile launch by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war which ran from 1980 to 88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

It came hours after supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a statement on his website, vowed Iran would 'slap its enemies' in honour of the victims' families, including those killed in Syria and Iraq.

Scroll down for video

Iranian revolutionary guards Corps (IRGC) launching a missile at the Islamic State bases in Syria from an undisclosed location in western Iran

A Ghadr-F missile is displayed next to a portrait of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamene

Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard, a paramilitary force in charge of the country's missile program, said it launched six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called terror bases.

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were 'in retaliation' for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by ISIS.

'Medium-range missiles were fired from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed,' the statement said.

The missiles were described as medium-range

It said the attack targeted 'a command base.... of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor', Syria's oil-rich eastern province.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, had also vowed to avenge the attacks.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was 'promoting terrorist groups' in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of 'volunteer' fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syria's conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
The wife of a boxer who died days after being savagely beaten in the ring has broken down while recounting her husband's final moments.

Professional boxer Davey Browne, 28, died after he was knocked to the canvas in the final moments of a super featherweight title fight at the Ingleburn RSL, in Sydney's southwest, in 2015.

An inquest is due to hand down its findings into the death this week, after hearing the boxer likely became concussed during the fight and therefore lacked the ability to defend himself during the final round.

Wife Amy Browne said she is still coming to terms with the loss after watching her husband being beaten to death while sitting ringside.

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The wife of a boxer who died days after being savagely beaten in the ring has broken down while recounting her husband's final moments

Professional boxer Davey Browne, 28, died in 2015 after he was knocked to the canvas in the final moments of a super featherweight title fight in Sydney

'It was like he was just on auto pilot but he couldn't fight anymore,' she told 60 Minutes.

'It was like he was on the street getting beaten up by someone continuously.

'Why did this happen? Why am I left here with these two little boys without their father who loved them so much and was such a good dad?'

Amy claimed she heard doctors saying her husband was dying while she held his hand as he lay unresponsive on the canvas after the fight, 60 Minutes reported.

'I was just there holding his hand and I just thought ''you'd better be wrong.'' I just prayed he was wrong,' she said.

Father David Browne Snr also broke down while recounting the fight, saying it could have been stopped by a number of people.

'Why am I left here with these two little boys without their father who loved them so much and was such a good dad?' Ms Browne said

Father David Browne Snr (pictured) also broke down while recounting the fight, saying it could have been stopped by a number of people

'It was like myself throwing him to a pack of wolves and watching him getting slaughtered,' he said.

'Everyone just standing there watching, that could have stopped that fight.'

The inquest watched shocking footage in May showing the flurry of punches Browne received to the head one round before he was dealt a fatal blow.

In the video, Browne squares up in front of Filipino Carlo Magali with his arms lowered.

Magali takes the opportunity and jabs the defenseless Browne with his left hand.

The attack appears to stun Browne, as Magali follows up immediately with a devastating right-hand punch that causes the Australian to lose his balance.

Browne tumbles to the canvas while his counterpart is ordered to return to his corner.

The umpire begins to give Browne an eight-count, before he regains his feet and is given the all-clear to continue fighting.

The inquest watched shocking footage in May showing the flurry of punches Browne received to the head one round before he was dealt a fatal blow

He was punched again soon after and fell back into the ropes shortly before the bell rang.

The inquest heard that Browne's support team was more worried about him losing than his health when he returned injured to the corner.

With the result still in doubt and with only one round to go, the referee continued the fight.

Browne then stepped out for the final round in a 'perilous state', neurosurgeon Professor Brian Owler told the inquest.

He said Browne's haemorrhage was the result of a violent and uncontrolled head movement, sustained in the final round.

'If someone had been in a position to defend themselves, to deflect or avoid that blow, then it wouldn't have struck the head in a manner to move it so violently,' he said.

In the video, Browne receives a devastating combination of punches from Filipino Carlo Magali that sends him to the canvas

Browne's brother and cornerman Tommy Browne told the Glebe Coroner's Court in May that they didn't 'really think too much' about how he was feeling after the flurry of punches.

'There should have been more concern for that than getting through the 12th round,' he told the inquest.

Deputy state coroner Teresa O'Sullivan will determine this week whether Browne should have been assessed by a doctor after the 11th round and if trainer Todd Makelim, referee Charlie Lucas or ringside doctor Lawrence Noonan should have stopped the fight.

Browne died in hospital on September 15 - three days after being punched in the 12th round of the fight

The footage shows Browne (pictured with his wife and dad) repeatedly being punched in the head during the 11th round before falling forward on to his hands and being given an eight count by the referee

One of the fight's judges, Kevin Hogan, said he's sure the referee also wishes he'd stopped it, but that it would have been difficult when Browne was close to a possible win.

'They didn't [stop] because it was at the end of the fight,' Mr Hogan, who said he thought the fight should have been stopped in the 11th round, told the inquest.

Mr Hogan got the impression Mr Lucas had been close to calling it a few times.

Both he and Tommy Browne said ringside doctors should have to inspect fighters more regularly.

Browne's injuries were deemed unsurvivable at hospital and his family decided to turn off his life support.
A US warplane shot down a pro-Assad military aircraft that dropped bombs near American-backed fighters in Syria, the Pentagon said.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces shot down the regime's aircraft flying over Ja'Din, south of Tabqa, Syria, on Sunday afternoon - making it the first time that a US-led coalition has shot down a pro-Assad aircraft during its battle against the self- proclaimed Islamic State.

The US Central Command issued a statement saying the plane was downed 'in collective self-defense of Coalition-partnered forces,' identified as fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces near Tabqah.

A US warplane on Sunday shot down a pro-Assad military aircraft that dropped bombs near American-backed fighters in Syria, the Pentagon said. Note: file picture

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces shot down the regime's aircraft, which was flying over Ja'Din, south of Tabqa, Syria, on Sunday at around 4:30 pm. Pictured are members fighting alongside the Syrian Democratic Forces on June 14

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov on Monday condemned the US for the strike, describing it as an act of aggression.

'This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law,' Ryabkov told journalists in Moscow, according to the TASS state news agency. 'What is this if not an act of aggression?'

Pro-Assad forces attacked the SDF at around 4:30 pm, local time, injuring several soldiers and forcing them to leave Ja'Din, the Pentagon says.

The attack prompted the SDF to call the Russian army to stop firing and 'de-escalate' the shooting.

'Following the Pro-Syrian forces attack, the coalition contacted its Russian counterparts by telephone via an established 'de-confliction line' to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing,' said a statement from U.S.-led coalition fighting ISIS, Operation Inherent Resolve.

'At 6:43 p.m., a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of Tabqah and, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet.'

The Syrian government issued a statement after its military plane was shot down, accusing the United States army of supporting terrorism.

'This flagrant violation shows there is no doubt of the fact that the American stance supports terrorism,' the regime said in its statement. 'It exposes the devious intentions of America in running terrorism and investing in it in order to pursue its Zionist-American project in the region.'

The Pentagon says pro-Assad forces initiated the fight when it bombed US base. Pictured is a map showing Ja'Din, Tabqa, where the aircraft was flying before it was shot down and the hotly-contested Raqqa, where both pro-Assad and US-backed forces have launched their campaign against Isis

The pilot manning the aircraft flying was hit, according to the Syrian army, but his condition is unknown.

The United States Army reiterated in its statement that its sole purpose was to defeat ISIS and not to fight with the regime.

The statement said: 'The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat.

'The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated.'

Both sides have been competing over who will reclaim Raqqa, the ISIS capital. The SDF announced just two weeks ago that it was launching its campaign to capture the town, and only a week later, the Syrian regime also said it was beginning its offense.

The US-led coalition as well as the pro-Assad regime have had shoot outs and launched airstrikes against each other in recent weeks.
Seven people have been injured following a horrifying overnight shootout in South Carolina that was caught on Facebook Live.

Myrtle Beach Police say the incident occurred Sunday around 12:30am near Ocean Boulevard, by the coast.

Authorities say that a fight broke out among a crowd of people after which the suspect pulled out a gun and began firing. Some people were hit, and taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The video, so far, has more than 2.6million views and has been shared more than 70,000 times.

A shootout that occurred in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was captured on Facebook Live. Officers were called around 12:25am because of a large crowd that had gathered, preventing traffic from passing through

Soon afterwards, a fight broke aout among three members of the crowd. Video captured a man in a white T-shirt (pictured on the sidewalk) pull out a gun and shoot the others

Myrtle Beach police officers were called to the area of 5th Ave N and Ocean Boulevard (pictured above)

According to Lt Joey Crosby, officers were called to the area of 5th Ave N and Ocean Boulevard around 12:25am because of a large crowd that had gathered, preventing traffic from passing through.

Before officers arrived, a fight broke out among three members of the crowd. Video captured a man in a white T-shirt and jeans pull out a gun and shoot the others.

In the recording, taken by Bubba Hinson, from Bethune, South Carolina, who appears to be on a balcony at a nearby hotel, more than a dozen shots can be heard.

Lt Crosby said an armed security officer witnessed the shooting and shot the suspect. The alleged shooter then shot numerous rounds and escaped the scene by carjacking a vehicle, police confirmed.

Police officers found the stolen vehicle and have identified and apprehended a suspect in the case, according to Lt Crosby. His identity is being withheld, however, until he is cleared medically and warrants are served.

Seven people were taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Police officers found the stolen vehicle and have identified and apprehended a suspect in the case, according to Lt Joey Crosby. His identity is being withheld until he is cleared medically and warrants are served (Pictured left, shooting, and right, shooting aftermath)

Seven people were taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The security officer suffered a graze wound to the leg, but his injury did not require him to be taken to the hospital and he received medical attention at the scene

The security officer suffered a graze wound to the leg, but his injury did not require him to be taken to the hospital and he received medical attention at the scene.

A patrol car was hit by the gunfire, but no officers were hurt.

'Social media today puts this word out quickly,' Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes said on Sunday.

'It does not look good for the city of Myrtle Beach.'

It was the third shooting in the city within eight hours, with a gunshot victim found at Coastal Grand Mall around 4:30pm Saturday and a report of shots fired at the Crown Reef Resort on Ocean Boulevard about 10 minutes later.

'We're gonna send a message to do everything that's humanly possible to stop this violence in our city,' Rhodes said.

'I'm sorry for our city that this happened.'
The younger brother of radio host Kyle Sandilands has been placed in an induced coma following a horror motorbike accident.

Chris Sandilands suffered critical injuries following the accident while he was out riding and had to be airlifted to hospital where he underwent two operations.

Kylie told listeners on his KIIS FM breakfast show with Jackie O on Monday of his brother's extensive injuries.

Kyle Sandilands (left) told listeners of his breakfast radio show with Jackie O (right) about his brother's critical injuries following a motorbike accident

Chris Sandilands (pictured) suffered critical injuries after a motorbike accident, brother Kyle said

Chris Sandilands was airlifted to hospital where he underwent two operations and he is expected to undergo one more

'He's in ICU, he's still critical and they're going to wake him up tomorrow, the good news is they can't see any bleeding on the brain,' Kyle said.

Chris shattered his pelvis and broke his arm and eight ribs in the frightening accident.

Kyle told his listeners he was glad his brother was still alive.

Chris reportedly still has one more operation to undergo.

His Facebook page shows he is a keen motorbike enthusiast, with numerous photos of Chris out riding.

Last year, in an interview with comedian Anh Do on the ABC which discussed his childhood, Kyle touched on the 'horrifying' experience of discovering Chris had gone missing from school one day, saying: 'He'd been snatched'.

'To this day, by who, we're not sure,' Kyle continued, adding no one spoke about the incident as it was viewed as somewhat of a 'family shameful secret'.

It was later learned he was staying with his aunt, and Kyle didn't see his sibling until a year later.

Kylie Sandilands is pictured here with his brother Chris in earlier days

In an earlier family photograph, Kyle Sandilands (left) is pictured beside his younger brother Chris (centre) and his mum Pam (right)




A $250,000 reward has been posted by Queensland police in order to find the man who murdered Wayne Youngkin 31 years ago.

Mr Youngkin was reported missing in 1986 before his body was found three decades later in a septic tank in Brighton, north of Brisbane, in 2016.

A set of brown car seat covers and a watch which belonged to the 29-year-old were also found in the tank and are of considerable interest to investigators.

Mr Youngkin was reported missing in 1986 before his body was found three decades later in a septic tank in Brighton, north of Brisbane, in 2016

A $250,000 reward has been posted by Queensland police in order to find the man who murdered Wayne Youngkin 31 years ago

Detectives also scoured the Deagon Wetlands after they received information 'that certain evidence may have been disposed of in the water'.

Police Minister Mark Ryan an appropriate indemnity from prosecution would be considered for any accomplice, not being the person who actually committed the crime, who first gives information which leads to a conviction.

'Mr Youngkin went missing in 1986  that's over thirty years that his family and friends have been waiting to find out what happened to him,' Mr Ryan said.

'I have approved this reward in the hope that it will prompt someone out there in the community that has been sitting on information about this case for years to finally come forward.

Detectives also scoured the Deagon Wetlands after they received information 'that certain evidence may have been disposed of in the water.

More than twenty detectives have been working on Mr Youngkin's presumed murder since his body was discovered, with some police officers involved not even born when he disappeared

'I want to make it clear though, that this reward will only be paid to someone who was not directly involved in the crime but may have vital information needed for police to solve this case.'

More than twenty detectives have been working on Mr Youngkin's presumed murder since his body was discovered, with some police officers involved not even born when he disappeared.

Detective Inspector Tim Trezise said investigators were hoping the reward would encourage members of the public to come forward because many of Mr Youngkin's family and friend's have since died.

Detective Inspector Tim Trezise said investigators were hoping the reward would encourage members of the public to come forward because many of Mr Youngkin's family and friend's have since died

A set of brown car seat covers (pictured) and a watch which belonged to the 29-year-old were also found in the tank and are of considerable interest to investigators

'Police are committed to solving this case, and we would urge anyone who may be assisting in keeping the crime a secret to come forward as this is their opportunity to do so with the cance of indemnity,' Detective Inspector Tresize said

'Police are committed to solving this case, and we would urge anyone who may be assisting in keeping the crime a secret to come forward as this is their opportunity to do so with the cance of indemnity,' Detective Inspector Tresize said.

'Police currently have several avenues of investigation which may not have been possible if it weren't for the assistance of the local community providing valuable information,' he said.

'We would like to hear from anyone who knew Wayne Youngkin or his movements in the early to mid 1980s, no matter how minor it may seem.'
The outspoken Melbourne academic converted to Islam at 19, and has since published her PhD on feminism within the faith.

But Susan Carland is still yet to convince some, who feel the need to share their distaste for the religion.

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Carland shared a screenshot of an email from a stranger, titled 'Islam and Terrorism'.

After just a 'Hi Susan', and a disclamatory 'no offence intended', the email launches into a tirade about Islam.

Melbourne academic and outspoken Islam convert Susan Carland shared a bizarre piece of hate mail she received with her social media following on Monday

Pictured: The email sent to Carland, which issues a disclamatory 'no offence intended' before launching into the sender's opinions of Islam

'I have long been of the view that Islam is a cancer both a) on humanity, and b) on the minds of followers,' it read.

The remark was followed by a line regarding 'the trail of death and destruction that Islam leaves', but the sender's full point was cut off by the screengrab.

Carland, who married The Project's Waleed Aly 14 years ago, jokingly shared the email to social media, pointing out the specific irony of beginning the email with 'no offence intended'.

She also added a disclaimer to followers, asking them not to 'write anything abusive or nasty about this person in the comments'.

'I'm sharing this because I find it amusing, not to start a pile-on,' she wrote.

'Let's remember our Ramadan adab.'

Carland has been married to The Project's Waleed Aly (pictured) for 14 years and the pair have two children

Carland (pictured) recently published her PhD thesis on feminism within Islam

The Melbourne woman shared the email because she found it 'amusing' and urged her followers not to abuse the sender

The Melbourne woman regularly speaks publicly about her faith and academic work

Adab refers to ettiquite, particularly the exhibition of good manners, morals and decency.

It's not the first time Carland has received bizarre comments from strangers regarding her faith.

In March last year, the mother-of-two shared a message she received from a fan, asking: 'why won't you show us your hair for a change? we men would like to get aroused now and then'.

Last year, Carland told the Sydney Morning Herald being Muslim was not always easy, but she was firm in her belief and had no intention to walk away.

'There's so many reasons not to be Muslim in this world but I feel like Islam chose me, so I couldn't walk away even if I wanted to,' she said.

It is not the first unwelcome piece of correspondence Carland has received, with one man on Twitter requesting she remove her headscarf as 'we men like to get aroused now and then'
David Davis will try to strike a deal like no other in history as he starts Brexit talks in Brussels today

David Davis will try to strike a deal like no other in history as he starts Brexit talks in Brussels today.

The Brexit Secretary will officially launch divorce talks with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier a year to the week that Britain voted to Leave.

Mr Davis will declare his desire for Britain and the EU to emerge strong and prosperous.

The two sides have to finalise a deal before the UK leaves the union on March 29, 2019.

Today marks the start of negotiations that will shape the future of the European Union and the United Kingdom, and the lives of our citizens, he said.

We want both sides to emerge strong and prosperous, capable of projecting our shared European values, leading in the world, and demonstrating our resolve to protect the security of our citizens.

I want to reiterate at the outset of these talks that the UK will remain a committed partner and ally of our friends across the Continent.

And while there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear  a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history. I look forward to beginning work on that new future today.

Mr Davis will be accompanied by a nine-strong negotiating team that includes the most senior civil servants at the Department for Exiting the EU (DexEU), as well as officials from the Treasury and Home Office and Mark Sedwill, the national security adviser to the Prime Minister.

Mr Barnier yesterday tweeted that he was spending the weekend hiking in the French Alps to draw strength and energy ahead of the start of the talks.

The Brexit Secretary will officially launch divorce talks with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier a year to the week that Britain voted to Leave. Mr Davis will declare his desire for Britain and the EU to emerge strong and prosperous

A Whitehall source said the DexEU team was ready. He added: This place is absolutely humming. Everyone is up for this. This whole department has spent months working flat out to get in the position we are now to start negotiations  and it has just gone up a gear.

The atmosphere and the positivity, the whole place is upbeat. This notion that were in disarray is just not the truth. Were looking forward very much to getting going on Monday. We have got a strong team. This idea that somehow were a shambolic outfit couldnt be further from the truth.

You have got David Davis at the top of the department  a massively experienced parliamentarian, former businessman, knows his way around a deal, is a strong and canny operator. You have got Brexit permanent secretary Olly Robbins, a phenomenally experienced civil servant. You have got Sir Tim Barrow, one of the countrys foremost diplomats and negotiators.

And that is just the top three, and beneath them you have got a tier that is the cream of Whitehall that is working on this.

The department is up and running and is looking forward to getting going. Were ready to go and looking forward to it.

Talks will focus on the status of expats, the UKs exit settlement and the Northern Ireland border. But officials insisted the UK would continue to push for an agreement on trade relations to be dealt with alongside a deal on the withdrawal process.

Labour yesterday remained in a muddle on the countrys exit from the EU. The partys Brexit spokesman, Sir Keir Starmer, said Britain should leave options on the table, including remaining a part of the customs union.

European Union chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier, who Mr Davis will start negotiations with today, speaks during a media conference at EU headquarter

During an interview on the Andrew Marr Show, Sir Keir said Britain could not stay in the single market in an unreformed, unchanged way  but sidestepped questions on the details, saying it is more important to focus on the outcome.

He said: You can only be a full member of the single market if you are an EU member and therefore it is obvious that we are looking for something else.

The question is do we leave options on the table, and Ive said repeatedly  yes, lets leave options on the table.

Asked whether Britain could stay inside the customs union, Sir Keir said: Yes.

He added: The Prime Minister has got us into a complete mess. Shes got no mandate here and shes got no authority abroad and the negotiation starts tomorrow.

Things have to change. Her approach so far has alienated our allies in Europe, its weakened our position with the EU and its actually got us into the worst possible starting position.
Paedophiles are targeting children as young as three in their bedrooms over live streaming apps.

The online computer programs allow youngsters to broadcast themselves to thousands of strangers in exchange for payment.

Voyeurs are able to send typed messages and are encouraged to tip the broadcasters with virtual gifts that can be swapped for cash.

Predators use live streaming services to approach naive young children, and send them obscene requests (stock image)

Predictably, the unregulated apps have become a feeding frenzy for paedophiles.

Predators use the live streaming services  Live.me and Live.ly  and the video sharing app Musical.ly to approach naive young children, and send them obscene requests. They also ask them to talk privately over Skype or via mobile phone, or to meet face to face.

A Daily Mail investigation found that there were dozens of pre-teens on the Live.me platform, including a pair of girls who said they were nine and three.

Predators asked them about whether they had kissed boys before and whether they like to wear swimsuits.

The young girls were asked to show viewers their bedroom, and to do handstands, even though one of the girls was wearing only a T-shirt and knickers.

A Channel 4 investigation found that youngsters were also bombarded with requests to remove their clothes on the Live.ly app and on the Musical.ly app, where users share videos of themselves lip-synching to songs and other content.

In theory, all three apps demand that users are over the age of 13 and have their parents permission. But the companies do very little to police this. The Musical.ly and Live.ly apps ask users to verify their age themselves, but younger children can easily bypass this by entering a false date of birth.

Voyeurs are able to send typed messages and are encouraged to tip the broadcasters with virtual gifts that can be swapped for cash

Live.me users are simply asked to accept the apps terms and conditions  a lengthy document with the age limit buried in it.

More than 170million people worldwide use the platforms, including an estimated three million in Britain.

John Carr, of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety, described the findings as absolutely horrible.

He added: It is young girls being bombarded with requests, some of them quite obscene, disgusting.

Take your clothes off, do this, do that. Some of them might persuade the children to go off to another app or another space and arrange to meet them in real life so theres no question that an app like this is going to be a magnet for paedophiles.

A spokesman for Musical.ly, which owns Live.ly, said it takes its users safety very seriously. Without question, this is a top priority for us as a company, he said.

Some of the measures we are actively working on include more stringent age-gating, enhanced live moderation capabilities, and restricted video streaming access. We will continue to work with the internet safety community as we look for additional ways to promote an appropriate and positive environment on Live.ly.

Live.me did not respond to requests for comment.
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A hero Imam has described how he prevented a mob attack on the Finsbury Park terror suspect just moments after Muslim worshippers were mown down outside a mosque.

Muslim leader Mohammed Mahmoud stepped in when an angry crowd attempted to 'kick and punch' the suspect as he was being restrained by three men following the suspected terror attack.

Moments earlier, a white van had ploughed into a group of people outside the Muslim Welfare House in north London as they left evening prayers.

Mohammed Mahmoud has described how he prevented a mob attack on the Finsbury Park terror suspect just moments after he mowed down Muslim worshippers outside a mosque

Ten people were injured - including two who were disabled - and one man has since died.

A 47-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has been further arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder.

This afternoon, Mr Mahmoud said he and a 'group of brothers' had managed to 'extinguish any flames of mob rule' as members of the public attempted to hurt the alleged terrorist 'from every angle'.

He added that, despite tensions running high, the suspect - who is white - had come away 'unscathed' and remained 'calm and silent' as he was arrested by officers.

Police are currently searching addresses in Cardiff as they continue to investigate the attack.

Mr Mahmoud told the BBC: 'By God's grace we managed to surround him and to protect him from any harm.

'We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him that were coming from every angle.'

Mr Mahmoud said that, while the chaos unfolded, a police car drove past which he and some others managed to flag down.

'We told them the situation,' he continued. 'We said "he is restrained, he mowed people down with a van, there is a mob attempting to hurt him, if you don't take him God forbid he might be seriously hurt.

'We pushed people away from him until he was safely taken by police into custody and put in the back of the van.

'It wasn't me alone - there was a group of brothers who were calm and collected and managed to calm people down and to extinguish any flames of anger or mob rule that would've taken charge had this group of mature brothers not stepped in.'

Police confirmed that one person - an elderly man was being helped by a group of people after collapsing outside the mosque - has died. Officers are still investigating whether the man's death was linked to the terror attack.

But, today, Mr Mahmoud described how the man had 'regained consciousness' moments before the van ploughed into the road.

He also revealed that the deceased's brother was treated for injuries at the scene.

He said: 'The van drove perpendicular to Seven Sisters road. It drove at a 90 degree angle to the direction of the road - it was enough to make some people fly off under the side.

'It dragged two people underneath him - one they were worried might be paralysed because he could not feel his arms and legs.'

Earlier, the imam was hailed as the 'hero of the day' by Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, for calming the angry crowd.

It is claimed he told them: 'Don't hit him - you do not touch him - hand him into the police'. At the time, the suspect was allegedly shouting: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit' before telling crowds: 'Kill me, kill me'.

Scotland Yard has since praised the 'restraint' of the crowds who protected the alleged killer before the police arrived to arrest him.

Police were forced to hold back crowds as the Finsbury Park attacker was arrested and put in the back of a van following this morning's terror attack

Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

Police gather evidence on the pavement where victims were knocked down including a show belonging to one man hurt in the attack

Arrest: This is the moment the Finsbury Park terror suspect was cuffed after being hauled to the ground and pinned down by worshippers who kept him being attacked before the police arrive

As he spoke to cameras, the imam added the community was staying calm in the wake of the attack.

'This community of ours is mild mannered and a calm community, not known for our violence. Our mosques are incredibly peaceful,' he said.

'We will do our utmost to calm down any tensions. But, immediately after the incident, people were calm, people were praying for the victims of the attack and everybody knew there was nothing they could do but pray for them.'

He added that it had been a 'tragic and barbaric attack' while proved that the 'demonisation' of the Muslim community was 'succeeding'.

Mr Mahmoud said that, while the chaos unfolded, a police car drove past which he and some others managed to flag down

'To hear him say "I did my bit" may be proof that this demonisation of the Muslim community by those who wish to divide this city have succeeded to some extent in influencing the vulnerable to think we must be eliminated,' he said.

'We just hope that in times of tragedy people come together and unite.'

Today, it emerged that police were force to hold back crowds after they arrested the suspect while he smirked and tried to goad witnesses to his Islamophobic attack into killing him.

The 47-year-old driver, who was not known to police and MI5, ploughed his white van into a crowd of Ramadan worshippers helping an elderly man who collapsed in the heat, killing one and injuring at least ten more at 12.20am this morning.

The unnamed white man in a blue T-shirt - who suffered a black eye and cuts to his face and hands - was filmed repeatedly shouting 'kill me' to the men who grabbed him.

Officers held back crowds after arresting the terror suspect who was smiling, waving and even blowing kisses, with police today praising the 'restraint' shown in aftermath of the van attack.

Witnesses said he 'deliberately' drove onto the pavement outside north London's Muslim Welfare House - yards from the Finsbury Park Mosque - and jumped out of the cab shouting 'I'm going to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'.

But as he tried to run from the scene a group of men gave chase and were filmed pinning the suspect to the floor before dragging him along the road as bodies lay strewn across the ground.

Scotland Yard has said they are treating the white van attack as a terrorist incident and assistant commissioner Neil Basu today praised the 'restraint' of those who detained the suspect at the scene and handed him over to police.

They have arrested the 47-year-old on suspicion of attempted murder as they ascertain if the elderly man who died at the scene had already passed away before the white van ran him over.

Outside Downing Street the Prime Minister Theresa May described the Finsbury Park as 'another terrorist attack on the streets of London - every bit as sickening as those that have come before.'

The group were leaving taraweeh, late night prayers observed during the festival of Ramadan, when the van struck. One victim was stuck under its wheels and a group managed to life the vehicle and pull him out.

The attack is fourth terror attack in Britain since March - one in Manchester and three in London - claiming 36 lives so far.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Mrs May said the attack had 'once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives - this time, British Muslims as they left a mosque, having broken their fast and prayed together at this sacred time of year'.

She added: 'Today we come together, as we have done before, to condemn this act and to state once again that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed.'

Mrs May said that the attack on Muslims was 'every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life' as the recent string of terror attacks apparently motivated by Islamist extremism, adding: 'We will stop at nothing to defeat it.'

She later visited the mosque and spoke to faith leaders with Met Commissioner Dick.

As details of the attack emerged, the Muslim Council of Britain condemned the incident - which took place shortly after the congregation finished Ramadan evening prayers - as 'the most violent manifestation' yet of Islamophobia and called for extra security around mosques.

The Met Police has now vowed to put extra security around mosques at this 'sensitive time' as Muslims continue to mark the holy month of Ramadan. Mr Basu said it was an 'incredibly challenging time for London' with emergency services 'stretched' but that officers would do all they could to keep people safe.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan also urged people to 'remain calm and vigilant' and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick has said the attack was 'quite clearly an attack on Muslims'.

Footage shows the alleged driver of the van being arrested at the scene and bundled into a police van - he screamed 'kill me' in the hope witnesses to his Islamophobic attack would seek retribution

Shocking: This is the moment the Finsbury Park mosque terror suspect turned to the crowd from inside the van and was filmed blowing a kiss to them and said: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'

This dramatic footage shows the suspect being pinned to the floor by worshippers (left) before being handed over to police (right)

In footage taken at the scene, worshippers are seen pinning the suspect to the ground and held him until police arrived (left). In another clip, the suspect is seen waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van (right)

Two police officers are seen helping a victim towards an ambulance car as devastated worshippers watch on in horror following last night's attack

Video posted online of the aftermath of the attack show scenes of chaos as people tried to help the injured.

One man could been seen giving CPR to a victim in the street while another man's head injury was treated with a makeshift dressing. People could be heard shouting and screaming amid the chaos and bloodstains were visible on the pavement.

Further dramatic footage from the scene shows the suspect - who was described as looking 'indifferent' and 'like he didn't care' - waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van.

At the time of the attack, which was just after midnight, several people were heroically giving first aid to an elderly member of the public who had collapsed at the bus stop with a medical issue.

Other witnesses to the attack early on Monday morning have also described how they wrestled the suspected terrorist to the ground - but stopped others from hitting him until officers took over.

Adil Rana, 24, who was outside the mosque when the van drove towards the crowd, said the driver gestured towards and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police.

He added: 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying: 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again.''

Describing the initial moments after the van careered into pedestrians, he went on: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said: 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Theresa May has called the terror attack - the fourth in Britain since March - 'sickening' and said Islamophobia appears to have been the motive before visiting the mosque this afternoon (pictured with the Met Commissioner Cressida Dick and Rabbi Herschel Gluck, president of Shomrim in Stamford Hill (right) with Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House (second right)

The terror attack is in Jeremy Corbyn's Islington constituency and he also went to the mosque to meet north London's faith leaders and members of is Muslim congregation

Forensics teams have sealed off the area where the van ploughed through a crowd and into this dead-end street before the attacker jumped out

The vehicle in question appears to have been rented from a company based in Wales, Pontaclun Van Hire

Police forensic officers examining the van involved in the attack: British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said police 'immediately' treated the incident as a suspected terrorist attack

The local community have been making signs and leaving messages celebrating the diversity of the area in the wake of the attack

Flowers have began to pile up in Finsbury Park after a van hit worshippers in north London praying during Ramadan

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House (pictured left), said the suspect had shouted 'I did my bit' after carrying out the attack - Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu (right) praised the 'restraint' of those who restrained the suspect

Officers are today pictured at the scene as police confirmed last night's attack is being treated as a terrorist incident

Pictured above are details of the vans available (left) at Pontyclun Van Hire in Pontyclun, South Wales (right), from where the van used in the attack was hired. The website says anyone hiring a car will need to take a driving licence and proof of address

The van was first seen on Seven Sisters Road in north London were it mounted a pavement yards from the area's mosque hitting an elderly man who had collapsed in the heat

Jeremy Corbyn was overcome with emotion as he visited the scene of the terror attack in his north London constituency

Flowers are pictured at the scene of the attack. This note describes the crime as 'hideous' and says: 'This crime is not who we are'

Footage captured on mobile phones at the scene shows the van driver being held on the ground as people call for police.

A man can be heard urgently shouting: 'No-one touch him - no-one! No-one!'

Abdulrahman Saleh Alamoudi said he was among a group of people helping an elderly worshipper who had fallen down, perhaps because of the heat, when the van swerved towards them.

He told BuzzFeed News: 'Luckily I managed to escape. And then the guy came out of his van and I got him.

Finsbury Park terror attack came after warnings of anti-Muslin backlash Sajid Javid speaks to an Imam at the scene of a terror attack in Finsbury Park today as he said the Government was supporting the Muslim community in the wake of the attack The van attack yards from Finsbury Park Mosque follows warnings of an unprecedented anti-Muslim backlash after recent terrorist atrocities. Police in London recorded a spike in the number of Islamophobic incidents in the wake of the London Bridge outrage earlier this month, with 20 recorded on June 6 - compared with a daily average of 3.5. It was the highest daily tally for 2017, and also higher than the numbers registered after the Paris attacks in November 2015, and the murder of Lee Rigby in May 2013. In a speech last week, a former police chief warned that anti-Muslim sentiment online has been 'relentless' following the London Bridge attack on June 3. Mak Chishty, an ex-Metropolitan Police commander who had been the country's most senior Muslim officer before his retirement, said: 'The backlash has been something of a different scale.' While the circumstances and suspected motivations behind the Finsbury Park incident are yet to be made clear, it comes amid mounting concern over far-right extremism in the UK. Warnings that the threat could be growing were raised after the conviction of Thomas Mair for the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox last year. The Government's Prevent and Channel programmes, which work to intervene before individuals are drawn into violent extremism, have seen a rise in the number of referrals linked to far-right ideology. Counter-terrorism police have said that, while the threat is not of the same gravity as that posed by Islamic State or al Qaida, there are extreme right-wing groups attempting to provoke violence and sow discord. Figures on terror-related arrests have shown an increasing number of white suspects are being held. In the year to the end of March, there were 113 arrests of white people, compared with 68 in the year before - an increase of 66%. The white ethnic group accounted for 37% of all terrorism-related arrests in the 12 months, compared with 26% in the previous year. Statistics on individuals' ethnicity are not broken down by type of suspected extremism. Dr Alan Mendoza, executive director of the Henry Jackson Society think tank, said: 'Coming a year after the murder of Jo Cox, we have witnessed what appears to be another hateful act in the community. 'It is looking increasingly likely that this is the latest example of a growing threat of far-right extremism in the UK. 'The Government must ensure urgently the security services have all the resources they need to investigate and prevent extremism-inspired attacks of whatever origin.' Advertisement

'He was screaming, he was saying: 'I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims.' He was throwing punches.

'Then we managed to get him on the floor. Then he was saying,: 'Kill me, kill me.' I said: 'We are not going to kill you. Why did you do that?' He wouldn't say anything.'

Mr Salah Alamoudi said he had also helped to hold the suspect on the ground for up to half an hour before police arrived.

'The guy, I had to keep him at least half an hour. He was a strong guy. A big man,' he said.

Eyewitness Hussain Ali, 28, said that, while being restrained, the man was protected by the people he is thought to have been targeting.

He said: 'The leader of the mosque said: 'You do not touch him'. He was sitting and holding him like that, people kept holding him.'

The police then arrived and cuffed him.

As well as the one confirmed fatality, police said a further eight casualties are being treated across three London hospitals for 'serious injuries' while two victims sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Mr Basu also confirmed that the probe was being handled by terror the Counter Terrorism Command. Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed the incident is being treated as a potential terror attack and called an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee.

Speaking this morning outside Scotland Yard, Mr Basu said: 'Sadly Londoners are are waking up to the news of another dreadful incident in the capital that has left a number of people seriously injured.

'This was an attack on London and all Londoners and we should all stand together against extremists whatever their cause. Now is a time to unite those who seek to divide us.'

He added: 'I would like to praise the police officers who immediately responded gave life saving treatment at the scene, but also very much those members of the public who assisted before and after this incident.

'At the scene, detained by members of the community, was the man suspected of being the driver. He has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

'I would like to thank those people who helped police in detaining the man and who worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him in to our custody. Their restraint in the circumstances is commendable.'

Confirming the fatality, he added that the incident unfolded while a man was already receiving first aid.

'Any causative link between his death and the attack will form part of the investigation. It is too early to say whether his death is a result of the attack,' he added.

Today, Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, said the suspect had shouted 'I did my bit' after carrying out the attack.

He told Sky News: 'After the event, he did say 'I did my bit'. It means he is not mentally ill, he is conscious, he did what he did deliberately to hit and kill as many Muslims as possible.'

He added that the imam - who had been leading the evening prayer, known as taraweeh - had saved the suspect's life after he ploughed the van into a wall and fences and other members of the public began beating him.

'He hit almost a wall and fences at the end of the road because it was a dead road. So people grabbed him outside and starting hitting him,' he added.

'Our imam went there and saved the life of the attacker. There is a wild video which you can see filmed by one of our worshippers and you can see clearly our imam saving the life of this guy and the guy at this time was saying 'I did my bit'.'

Another witness, who wanted to be identified as Abdulrahman, which is not his real name, said he was one of the people who helped to remove the driver from the van.

'He wanted to run away and was saying, 'I want to kill Muslims',' he said.

'So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, until the police arrived.'

Abdulrahman claimed the driver said 'kill me' as he was held on the ground.

Abdikadar Warfa said he also helped to detain the suspect while his friends helped victims.

'I saw a man underneath the van. He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van, I was busy with a man who tried to escape. My friend said he said some words, but I didn't hear it,' he said.

'They (people who were hit) were mostly young. They are very bad. I tried to stop him (the suspect), some people were hitting him but I said stop him and keep him until the police came.

'He was trying to run away but people overpowered him. He was fighting to run away.'

Local resident Abdul Abdullah, 18, who was also at the scene, described the suspect as looking 'indifferent' and 'like he didn't even care'.

Police were called just after midnight to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road - it later emerged it was another terror attack

After the attack the man was reportedly tackled by civilians, and a crowd of angry bystanders gave him to police

A pile of blankets can be seen, amid fears that there may have been fatalities in the attack

The Prime Minister is chairing an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee this morning, as Sadiq Khan ordered more police to be deployed

A police cordon has been set up at Seven Sisters Road this morning as officers flood the scene outside the Muslim Welfare House

Heavily armed police officers remain at the scene this morning as leaders called for security to be stepped up at mosques

A police forensic tent has been erected at Finsbury Park as counter-terrorism units take over the investigation

Brave bystanders wrestled the suspect out of his van and to the ground, while they waited for police officers to arrive

Dozens of paramedics raced to the scene in the early hours, as several casualties were taken to hospitals around the capital

'Distraught' Corbyn is overcome with emotion at scene of Finsbury Park terror attack as Theresa May condemns it as 'every bit as sickening' as other killings and 'an attack on British Muslims' Theresa May has condemned the Finsbury Park terror attack as 'every bit as sickening' as the other incidents which have rocked Britain in recent months. Speaking on the steps of Number 10 on another bloody day for the capital, the Prime Minister described the incident as 'an attack on British Muslims' which sought to destroy one of the country's 'fundamental freedoms'. Mrs May also acknowledged that this morning's attack - which police believe was carried out by a lone wolf - falls at a 'difficult time' for London, in the wake of the London Bridge terror attack and the 'unimaginable' Grenfell Tower tragedy. But she hailed London as an 'extraordinary city of extraordinary people' which was 'determined never to give in to hate'. Her comments came as Jeremy Corbyn visited the scene of the attack - which sits in his north London constituency - where he was overcome with emotion as he talked to residents. Mrs May address to the nation came after she issued her first response to the attack before 4am - less than four hours after the incident took place. The rapid response was in stark contrast to a leaden response to the Grenfell fire disaster which forced her to apologise on Saturday. Theresa May has condemned the Finsbury Park terror attack as 'every bit as sickening' as the other incidents which have rocked Britain in recent months Jeremy Corbyn arrived at the scene today (pictured) to comfort his constituents. Mr Corbyn, who is MP for the area, is due at a prayer service later The Labour leader wept as he comforted constituents on his home patch today just hours after the terrorist attack near Finsbury Park mosque Mrs May said: 'This attack targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their ordinary lives, this time British Muslims as they left a mosque after breaking their fast at this sacred time of year. 'This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism in whatever form it shares the same fundamental goal - it seeks to drive us apart and break the the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country. 'At the heart of that bond is a belief in the fundamental freedoms and liberties we all cherish - freedom of speech, the freedom to live how we choose and - yes - the freedom to practice religion in peace 'We will not let this happen. It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible.' Mrs May then referred to the other horrors which have taken place in London over recent weeks, describing how Londoners had shown 'resolve' through the adversity. 'Today's attack falls at a difficult time in the life of this city following on from London Bridge two weeks ago and of course the unimaginable tragedy of Grenfell Tower this week,' she continued. 'But what we have seen throughout - whether in the heroism of the ordinary citizens who fought off the attackers at London Bridge, the unbreakable resolve of the residents in Kensington, or, this morning, the spirit of the community who apprehended the attacker, is that this is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people. Mr Corbyn said he was horrified by the 'cruel' attack in his constituency, which saw a white man drive at a group of Muslims giving first aid to an ill man The Islington North MP said he was already working with community leaders at Muslim Welfare House in response to the attack The grim-faced Labour leader is due to attend a prayer service in the aftermath of the attack later 'It is home to a multitude of communities that together make London one of the greatest cities on earth - diverse, welcoming, vibrant, compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate. 'There are the values that define this city.' Mrs May added that extra police resources had already been deployed to 'reassure communities' while police would continue to assess the security needs of mosques 'and provide any additional resources where needed'. The Prime Minister - who made the statement after chairing a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra meeting - added that police believed the suspect was acting alone when he mowed down the group of Muslims close to the mosque. Meanwhile, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who represents the area as its MP, has announced he will attend prayers at the mosque later. He arrived at the scene this morning to comfort constituents. In a statement he said: 'I am shocked by this horrific and cruel attack in Finsbury Park, which is being treated as an act of terror. 'I offer my condolences to the family and friends of the man who has died, and our thoughts are with the people who have been injured, their family and friends. 'As the local MP, I have met with Muslim community leaders at the Muslim Welfare House alongside Islington Council Leader Richard Watts, the council's Chief Executive Lesley Seary and the Metropolitan Police. 'Richard and I will attend prayers at Finsbury Park mosque later today.' Advertisement

Shocking eyewitness accounts had earlier revealed how the van raced down the bus lane before swerving down a dead end road and mowing down members of the public.

Van was rented in small South Wales village Police today swooped on a small Welsh village van hire company after their 80-a-day vehicle was used in Finsbury Park mosque attack. Officers arrived at 7.30am at the offices of Pontyclun Van Hire - more than 160 miles away from the London mosque. Staff at the company were interviewed by officers at their depot in Pontyclun, 12 miles north of Cardiff. Company staff declined to comment but one neighbouring worker said: 'This is a nightmare for them. They are completely innocent.' One member of staff said: 'We are not saying anything, we don't know anything at the moment.' Owners of a van hire company today hit out at the 'cowardly' attack on the Finsbury Park mosque in one of their vehicles hired more than 160 miles away. The company staff were 'shocked and saddened' that one of their vehicles from Pontyclun Van Hire near Cardiff, South Wales, was used in the attack. And the family-owned company pledged to help police with their investigation into the mosque outrage. Police today swooped on a small Welh village van hire company after their 80-a-day vehicle was taken for the attack. A spokesman for the company said: 'We at Pontyclun Van Hire are shocked and saddened by the incident that took place at Finsbury Park last night. 'We are co-operating fully with the Metropolitan Police investigation and our thoughts are with those who have been injured in this cowardly attack. 'We will not be making any further statement because of the on-going police investigation but will continue to assist the police in any way we can.' Officers arrived at 7.30am at the offices of Pontyclun Van Hire 168 miles away from the London mosque. Advertisement

Adil Rana, 24, said he saw blood and 'people dead on the floor' in the aftermath.

'The van was driving towards us to try and basically hit us at speed and everyone was shocked and people were screaming. There were people on the floor,' he said.

Mr Rana, from Walthamstow, said he also saw the driver being held on the ground by some of the crowd after getting out the vehicle.

He said: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Mr Rana said the driver gestured and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police. 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again',' he added.

Emergency service crews were also seen giving cardiac massages to the injured in a desperate bid to save them, but unconfirmed reports that two other suspects fled the van were denied by police.

The police operation is being handled by counter-terrorism units, while the suspect has been taken to hospital and will be detained once he has been discharged, and will then face a mental health assessment.

Today, police and forensic officers were seen scouring the area for clues as the terror investigation got underway.

Flowers were handed to police, who put the tributes inside the cordoned off area. One tribute reads: 'This hideous crime is not who we are. Finsbury Park represents the best of London. Love and tolerance.'

Staff from a local cafe were also seen giving coffees and bottles of water to officers guarding the scene.

Police said the suspect had been taken to hospital as a precaution and would be taken into custody once discharged and subjected to a mental health assessment in due course.

Some witnesses at the scene said more than one attacker may have been involved.

But the Met said: 'At this early stage of this investigation, no other suspects at the scene have been identified or reported to police, however the investigation continues.'

Meanwhile, a member of staff at Pontyclun Van Hire said the company would not be issuing a statement. She said: 'We are not saying anything, we don't know anything at the moment.'

The website shows that anyone wanting to hire a vehicle must show their driving licence and a utility bill or bank statement featuring a current address.

Today, police interviewed staff at the company, which is based 12 miles north of Cardiff.

The Finsbury Park Mosque gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by hate preacher Abu Hamza, who was imam from 1997 until 2003 and was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 for his conviction on terrorism-related charges.

A new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Abu Hamza was arrested by British police.

Since the, the mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar.

Attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosque's website.

Mr Kozbar, described the incident as 'a cowardly attack which is no different than the attacks in Manchester and London'.

'Our community is in shock, our thought and prayer with those who have been affected by this,' he said.

'Tough times don't last. Tough people do': Finsbury Park Tube worker's poignant 'Quote Of The Day' urges people to stick together after the terror attack A transport worker has penned a poignant message to commuters who awoke to news of another horrifying terror attack in the capital. The apt quote, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station, and signed by underground staff, British Transport Police and emergency services. It comes after one person was killed and ten more injured after a white van driver screaming 'I'm going to kill all Muslims' ploughed into worshippers outside the nearby Finsbury Park mosque. The message, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station A 47-year-old man has been arrested and remains in hospital, in police custody. Brave bystanders wrestled the suspect to the floor outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park and pinned him down police officers arrived. He had allegedly screamed: 'I want to kill all Muslims', and 'I did my bit'. At the time of the attack, which was just after midnight, several people were giving first aid to an elderly member of the public who had collapsed at the bus stop with a medical issue. Today, police confirmed he was the man who had died. Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu said it is not yet known if his death was caused by the terror attack. Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to social media to vow that they will not let terror attacks divide them. One wrote: 'Terrorists are terrorists! Nothing to do with any religion.Let's #StandTogether & not let them divide us!' Another wrote: 'My little patch has just got a little less safe and a lot sadder. Lunatics will not divide us.' Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to the street and to social media to vow that they will not let terror attacks divide them Commuters passing through the north London station this morning saw the defiant message A police cordon has been set up at Seven Sisters Road this morning as officers flood the scene outside the Muslim Welfare House Devastated members of the community have been leaving floral tributes at the scene Defiant Londoners have been united in their grief in the wake of yet another atrocity to hit the capital. On June 8, terrorists Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba hired a van and ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before going on a knife rampage attacking people enjoying meals and drinks in Borough Market, killing eight people and leaving 21 in a critical condition. In the wake of that sickening act, a message appeared at London Bridge's underground station reading: 'London Bridge will never fall down. 'You can't break our spirit.' It is believed to have been written by a TFL employee. Advertisement

A group of Muslims prayed on the pavement following the atrocity. The incident has been slammed as a 'violent manifestation of Islamophobia', with Muslim leaders calling for extra security around mosques

A massive police presence remains on the scene at Finsbury Park, as forensic officers comb the scene

A heavy presence of armed police officers swooped to the scene shortly after the drama unfolded near the place of worship

Eyewitnesses reported seeing bystanders wrestle the suspect to the floor and pin him down until officers arrived at the scene

Rescue teams at the scene investigating as other emergency service members huddle together to discuss the operation

In a statement posted on its website, the Finsbury Park Mosque said it 'condemns in the strongest terms a heinous terrorist attack'.

'The van driver deliberately mowed down Muslim men and women leaving late evening prayers from Finsbury Park Mosque and Muslim Welfare House just after midnight,' the statement said.

'This is a callous terrorist attack, which coincides with the murdered MP, Jo Cox, anniversary.'

The statement added: 'Finally, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

'We urge all attending mosques and going about their business to remain vigilant in this difficult time.'

'It's not safe anymore after what's been happening. It's not been safe to walk.

'Two people ran away and one got taken away to the police.

The attack comes just two weeks after eight were killed in a terror attack in London Bridge, when three extremists mowed down pedestrians on the bridge before launching a stabbing frenzy in pubs and clubs in nearby Borough Market.

Three months ago, Khalid Masood also mowed down four people on Westminster Bridge before stabbing PC Keith Palmer to death on the cobbled forecourt of the Houses of Parliament.

It was also less than a month ago that terrorist Salman Abedi detonated a suicide bomb killing 22 people, including children, after an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena.

Fabian Santana, 22, who saw last night's carnage unfold, said he felt as though the capital was no longer 'safe'.

'I just feel like London for the last couple of weeks has not been safe. I'd rather go out of London,' he added.

Jamal, 21, echoed his fears, telling MailOnline: 'I think it's terrible what happened in so many locations I don't know if I'm going to be alive tomorrow, I'm worried what's going to happen tomorrow, it's scary

'It's not safe in London, total, 100 per cent it is not safe, I'm worried to come out of my house right now, it's not safe.'

Jeremy Corbyn expressed his shock at the incident, which took place in the heart of his Islington North constituency, and appeared to be in tears.

He said: 'I'm totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight. I've been in touch with the mosques, police and Islington council regarding the incident.

'My thoughts are with those and the community affected by this awful event.'

Hather Ali, 31, was inside the mosque where Jeremy Corbyn addressed 150 people later.

He told MailOnline: 'He was giving a message of unity and said that everyone needs to work together.

'He said that everyone needs to be calm and stick together to overcome such extremism.

'The response from the community and local politicians has been excellent. The emergency services have also been great since the attack happened.

'After something like this there will be a sense of fear. But as long as we are united as a community we can eradicate this.'

London Mayor Sadiq Khan urged people to remain vigilant, saying: 'We don't yet know the full details, but this was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

'While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect'.

Several worshippers took to the streets to pray for the victims in the aftermath of the horrific attack

More members of the Muslim community on their knees as they send their prayers to those who were affected by the van

Police extend the cordon around the scene as the investigation begins during a hectic few weeks for emergency services

Police officers attending to the scene after the vehicle collided with pedestrians in Finsbury Park at around midnight

The Labour leader wrote on Twitter: 'I am totally shocked by the incident in Finsbury Park tonight'

A message on a whiteboard in Finsbury Parl station reads: 'Tough times don't last, tough people do stick together'

This is the vehicle that smashed into people outside the mosque, which has been hired from a Welsh company

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said: 'My thoughts are with all those affected by the appalling incident at Finsbury Park.

'I am in contact with the Metropolitan Police who have confirmed it is being investigated by their Counter Terrorism Command.

'We must all continue to stand together, resolute, against all those who try to divide us and spread hate and fear.'

Labour's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, whose Hackney North and Stoke Newington constituency lies close to the scene, called for police to review security at mosques.

She tweeted: 'Terror attack outside #FinsburyPark mosque. Police must urgently review security for all mosques #StandTogether.'

Another witness, a courier who gave his name as Andrew, said he saw three people on the floor and at least one of them appeared to be in Muslim dress.

The 45-year-old, of St Albans, Hertfordshire, said he was driving back from a night shift when he saw the aftermath of the collision.

He said: 'When I drove past slowly I could count three people on the floor and police were performing CPR on one of them. The guy having CPR performed on him was in a gown, ethnic clothing.'

One resident told how he jumped out of the way as the van struck pedestrians.

The man, who did not want to be named, said: 'The gentleman went straight down this road, people were just conversing, talking, just doing what we're doing. And he just came into all of us.

'There was a lot of people. We got told to move straight away. I was shocked, shocked, shocked. There were bodies around me.

'Thank God I just moved to the side, I just jumped. Everyone is hurt. Everyone is actually hurt.'

Jennifer Heape said: 'Apparently a van has ploughed into people coming from Finsbury Park mosque. People are reporting of several injured, some fatalities.

'Police are escorting people home very calmly. They are making sure people stay indoors.

'No panic, but it's very serious. A LOT of helicopters.'

A pedestrian is wheeled away on a stretcher by paramedics as the receives emergency treatment

There was a huge emergency service presence at the scene after the car swerved onto the pavement

An eyewitness who lives on Seven Sisters Road told the BBC there were people 'shouting and screaming'.

She added: 'Everyone was shouting 'a van's hit people'.

'There was this white van stopped outside Finsbury Park Mosque that seems to have hit people who were coming out of the mosque after prayers finished.'

A Metropolitan Police helicopter was seen circling overhead as photographs posted on social media showed a huge response from the emergency services.

Dozens of police cars and vans cordoned off a large area of the normally bustling thoroughfare as stunned locals gathered at the scene.

Mehdi, a 38-year-old worshipper, told the Evening Standard: 'There were loads of people coming out and the van took a left and went straight into them.

Dozens of police cars and vans cordoned off a large area of the normally bustling thoroughfare as stunned locals gathered at the scene

Police rush with a stretcher to a victim who is laying stricken on the side of the road after being hit by the van

'The crowd caught a guy. He tried to do a London Bridge thing.'

A woman named Hajal said her sister witnessed the immediate aftermath of the incident.

She told LBC Radio: 'Everyone was just running everywhere she didn't realise what was going on at first until she people on the floor.

'She ran to see first victim and realised it was a family friend.'

'An old man didn't have a pulse. Police came and took over. She said it could have been an accident.

'At first she thought there was some sort of fight. There were 15 to 20 people hitting somebody - she didn't realise it was the man who ran over the people.

'She said someone was still under the van but he was breathing. The second [more seriously injured] person was family friend who at first said he couldn't feel his legs.'

Another person who lives nearby, Ishmael, told the station: 'I pray there regularly. I'm there right now. There's a very close friend of mine and in a very bad critical condition.

'I hear from the other guys that they just stand there and have a coffee.

'The van drove to there. I had just left the area because I wasn't feeling very well.

The area was cordoned off as police rushed to the scene after getting the call just after midnight

How mosque known for hate cleric Abu Hamza transformed itself into a pillar of the community Abu Hamza preached at the mosque from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence The award-winning Finsbury Park Mosque is a beacon for community relations and works tirelessly to promote a better understanding of Islam. In 2014, it became the first Muslim place of worship in the UK to be handed the prestigious Visible Quality Mark by national body Community Matter, for combatting extremism. Finsbury Park Mosque was the first mosque and the third faith organisation in the country to receive the award. However it gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 for his conviction on terrorism-related charges. A new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Hamza was arrested by British police, since when attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosque's website. Hamza preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States and jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015. In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MCB to promote better understanding of Islam following Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks in Paris. The mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar. However despite the change in leadership and a new focus on inter-faith relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the terror attacks in Paris. The mosque said it received hate mail following the radical cleric's conviction for terrorist charges, adding: 'Despite being free of radical Islamic cleric Abu Hamza for more than a decade, Finsbury Park mosque still suffers from its former association.' The Finsbury Park Mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar In a statement posted on its website today, the Finsbury Park Mosque said it 'condemns in the strongest terms a heinous terrorist attack'. 'The van driver deliberately mowed down Muslim men and women leaving late evening prayers from Finsbury Park Mosque and Muslim Welfare House just after midnight,' the statement said. 'This is a callous terrorist attack, which coincides with the murdered MP, Jo Cox, anniversary.' The mosque's chairman, Mohammed Kozbar, described the incident as 'a cowardly attack which is no different than the attacks in Manchester and London'. 'Our community is in shock, our thought and prayer with those who have been affected by this,' he said. The statement added: 'Finally, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. 'We urge all attending mosques and going about their business to remain vigilant in this difficult time.' Advertisement

'One of my friends witnessed it. He told me the van went through the people standing there. 6 or 7 people, and one Asian guy is definitely dead.

'My friend is in bad critical condition. He was under the van. His head was bleeding.

'Someone took a video of him. Very shocking video. He's got family and a wife.

'The police answered the phone and told me he's alright. But the other friend they don't really know his condition. They're both in ambulances and heading to a London Hospital.

'Something's going to happen here one day here. Since that incident I had a feeling something was going to happen to the Mosque. We don't have no security.

'This is Ramadan and there was no security at all. Anyone who wants to do anything can come there. If someone wants to kill hundreds they can come there easily.'

Abdikadar Warfa said: 'I saw a man underneath the van. He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van, I was busy with a man who tried to escape.

'My friend said he said some words, but I didn't hear it.

'They (people who were hit) were mostly young. They are very bad.

'I tried to stop him (the suspect), some people were hitting him but I said stop him and keep him until the police came.

Emergency services rush to get a stretcher to the injured strewn on the pavements after the attack

'He was trying to run away but people overpowered him. He was fighting to run away.'

The widower of murdered MP Jo Cox spoke out on Twitter as news of the attack broke, saying that the far right and Islamist terrorists shared an ideology and both must be defeated.

Brendan Cox tweeted: 'Far right facists&Islamist terrorists are driven by same hatred of difference, same ideology of supremacy&use same tactics.We'll defeat both.

'When islamist terrorists attack we rightly seek out hate preachers who spur them on. We must do the same to those who peddle Islamophobia'.

Mother-of-two Mrs Cox, who represented the Batley and Spen conctituency in West Yorkshire, was shot and stabbed as she arrived for a constituency surgery in Birstall on June 16 last year.

London Ambulance Service Deputy Director of Operations, Kevin Bate said: 'We were called at 12.15am to reports of a road traffic collision at Seven Sisters Road.

'We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist responses teams to the scene. An advance trauma team from London's Air Ambulance has also been dispatched by car.

'We are working closely with other members of the emergency services at the scene.

'Our priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure those in the most need are treated first and taken to hospital.

'More information will follow when we have it.'

Muhbeen Hussain, founder of British Muslim Youth, said: 'We strongly condemn this horrendous suspected terrorist attack and pray for the innocent victims and their families that have been affected by this incident.

'I have personally visited the scene of the attack and spoke to many eyewitnesses, many of whom were quite emotional after witnessing a murder and seeing many people being injured.

'In less than a month, we have witnessed horrific attacks in Manchester, London Bridge, Borough Markets, a tragedy at Grenfell Tower and now this horrific attack.

'We as communities stood united in all of these difficult times and we must come together once more.

'I also urge anyone that has further information to speak to the police, so they have as much information as possible to deal with the on-going investigation.'

Member of the London Muslim Community Forum, Shiraz Kothia, also called for calm in the face of the tragedy.

He told MailOnline: 'First of all we need to look after the community and make sure everyone is safe.

'No matter what faith or ideology it is, we need to tackle extremism. I have worked with the Metropolitan Police after the Manchester and London Bridge attacks and we will continue to work with everyone in the community.

'Everyone must remain calm. There is no faith to terrorism. Tomorrow is could be a synagogue or a church. We must come together to stop it.

'We will be hosting some gatherings after this now and we will need the rabbis, priests, ministers and imams to come together.'

The incident comes almost three months to the day since Khalid Masood killed five people after mounting the pavement at Westminster Bridge and stabbing a police officer to death

Khuram Butt lies dying in Borough Market shortly after he was shot by armed police following another incident involving a van on London Bridge

'Do not touch him': Hero imam saves Finsbury Park terror suspect by calling for calm so police can arrest him

A hero Imam helped pin down the Finsbury Park terror suspect and told angry crowds: 'Don't hit him - you do not touch him - hand him into the police'.

Muslim leader Mohammed Mahmoud urged irate witnesses not to attack the alleged killer after he ploughed into a crowd at high speed while driving a white van.

The extraordinary appeal for calm came while the suspect, 47, was shouting 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit' before telling crowds that surrounded him: 'Kill me, kill me'.

But Mr Mahmoud repeatedly yelled: 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down' and more men joined him in protecting the unnamed white van driver.

Scotland Yard has praised the 'restraint' of the crowds who protected the alleged killer before the police arrived to arrest him.

Scotland Yard has praised the 'restraint' of the crowds who restrained and then protected the terror suspect before the police arrived to arrest him

This is the moment Finsbury Park Imam Mohammed Mahmoud (pictured centre in white) held down the man accused of launching a terror attack

The group of men pinned the suspect down and urged irate witnesses not to hurt him

The suspect is believed to have used this van rented in Wales as a weapon to try to kill and maim Finsbury Park worshippers

Adil Rana, 24, who was outside the mosque when the van drove towards the crowd, saw blood and 'people dead on the floor' in the aftermath.

He told the Press Association: 'The van was driving towards us to try and basically hit us at speed and everyone was shocked and people were screaming. There were people on the floor.'

Mr Rana, from Walthamstow, said the driver was held on the ground by some of the crowd after getting out the vehicle.

He said: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Mr Rana said the driver gestured and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police.

He added: 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again'.'

Eyewitness Abdul Rahman told the BBC said the white van driver clearly said he wanted to 'kill all Muslims'.

Mr Rahman, hit him and then helped pin him down.

He said: 'When the guy came out from his van he wanted to escape, run away and he was saying: 'I want to kill Muslims. I want to kill Muslims'.

'I hit him on his stomach and then me and the other guys, we held him to the ground until he couldn't move. We stopped him until the police came.'

Eyewitness Hussain Ali, 28, said that, while being restrained, the man was protected by the people he is thought to have been targeting.

He said: 'The leader of the mosque said 'You do not touch him'. He was sitting and holding him like that, people kept holding him.

'All the police and helicopters came after around eight minutes.'

Mr Ali described the horrifying scene unfolding outside the Islamic centre in north London early on Monday morning.

'All I heard was a banging, then I turned and saw all the shouting and running.

'I saw people taking a man from underneath the van, he was black, bleeding, he was not dead, he was alive.

'There was a man in a wheelchair, a man underneath the van, it was hell.

'People who were inside saw the attacker was smiling, he was waving, he was happy.

'It was panic, people were shouting, screaming, some saying it was an accident.

'It was panic, it was horror.'

The suspect, smiled, waved and blew kisses after his arrest in an attempt to rile crowds, it has been claimed

Scotland Yard has today thanked them for detaining him.

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, said the local community was 'horrified' by the incident and appealed for calm.

He also thanked Imam Mohammed Mahmoud 'whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life'.

'We have worked very hard over decades to build a peaceful and tolerant community here in Finsbury Park and we totally condemn any act of hate that tries to drive our wonderful community apart,' Mr Kacimi said.

'We would appeal for calm at this time. It is unhelpful for there to be speculation about the incident. All of our efforts should be towards getting justice for the victims and ensuring our community stays the diverse, tolerant and welcome place we know it to be.'

He added: 'An old man has passed away, what for? What did he do? He was just coming out of prayers, a nice gentleman going home after prayers and he is hit and killed by a car - what did he do? Why? Why?

'The guy, he came out and said 'You deserve, I did my bit, you deserve it' and he was shouting and screaming abusive language - what for? What did he do, this man? He is an innocent man'.

Mr Kacimi said the Muslim Welfare House had met with police, the council and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who is MP for Islington North, in the wake of the incident.

He added: 'I would like to particularly thank our Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life.'

One man has died and a tent is over the spot where he was ran down - police are trying to investigate if he died as a result of the attack or whether he had collapsed because of the heat beforehand

Police have paid tribute to the men who held him down after the attack on a group of worshippers near a mosque by a man in a white van.

One man died after the terror suspect, described as a large white man, targeted people near the Finsbury Park Mosque in north London early on Monday.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: 'This is being treated as a terrorist attack.'

He added: 'I would like to thank those people who helped police in detaining the man and worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him into our custody.

'Their restraint in the circumstances was commendable'.

Three months of horror: How Britain has been rocked by terror attacks and the devastating Grenfell Tower fire March 22 - Westminster Bridge attack Lone terrorist Khalid Masood, 52, sped along Westminster Bridge, killing four pedestrians before stabbing PC Keith Palmer, 48, to death outside the Houses of Parliament. Masood died in hospital after being shot by armed police. Khalid Masood, 52 (left) murdered five people on a crazed rampage along Westminster Bridge. He was shot by police (right) May 22 - Manchester Arena bombing Suicide bomber Salman Abedi, 22, detonated a nail bomb, killing 22, including children as young as eight, and injuring 120 music fans leaving an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester. Salman Abedi, 22 (left) detonated a nail bomb, killing 22, including children as young as eight, and injuring 120 music fans leaving an Ariana Grande concert in Mancheste April 27 - Man arrested with bag of knives in Westminster Just five weeks after the Westminster Bridge terror attack, a suspect was detained with a 'rucksack full of knives' near Parliament Square after being tracked on an intricate web of CCTV cameras by police and MI5. On May 9, Khalid Mohammed Omar Ali, 27, from north London, was charged with three crimes in relation to incidents in England and Afghanistan and dating back as far as 2012. Ali faces one count of preparation of terrorists acts, with the intention of committing acts of terrorism. He has also been charged with two offences under the Explosive Substance Act 1883, relating to activity in Afghanistan in 2012. Khalid Mohammed Omar Ali was charged with one count of preparation of terrorists acts, and two offences under the Explosive Substance Act 1883 following the incident in Westminster June 3 - London Bridge and Borough Market attacks Terrorists Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba hired a van and ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before going on a knife rampage attacking people enjoying meals and drinks in Borough Market, killing eight people and leaving 21 in a critical condition. From left, London Bridge and Borough Market attackers: Khuram Shazad Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba June 14 - Grenfell Tower inferno In the early hours of June 14, an inferno ripped through the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, London. Met Police revealed that the official number of people either dead or missing - currently 79 - is still expected to rise following searches of the wreckage. In the early hours of June 14, an inferno ripped through the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, London June 18 - Finsbury Park mosque attack A 48-year-old man was arrested after using a white hire van to plough into worshippers outside the Muslim Welfare House, near Finsbury Park Mosque, shortly after they finished Ramadan evening prayers. At least one person was confirmed dead at the scene, with a further ten injured in the attack. A 47-year-old man was arrested after using a white hire van to plough into worshippers outside the Muslim Welfare House, near Finsbury Park Mosque Advertisement
Doctors are to vote on whether to abolish the time limit on abortions.

Up to 500 GPs and hospital doctors will debate decriminalisation during a major conference at the end of the month. It could lead to a call for women to be allowed to terminate their pregnancy right up until the due date  and for any reason.

The existing time limit is 24 weeks from conception. Even then, two doctors must agree that continuing the pregnancy would be harmful for either the woman or the unborn child.

Some claim that the restrictions, which date back 50 years, encourage women to take matters into their own hands by buying illegal abortion pills online.

Doctors are to vote on whether to abolish the time limit on abortions (stock image)

The controversial vote will take place at the British Medical Associations annual meeting, which begins in Bournemouth this weekend. The fact the issue is being debated at length by such a powerful organisation reflects a shift in opinion among medical professionals and the general public.

Last year the Royal College of Midwives launched a campaign to decriminalise abortions to give women more choice and control over their bodies.

In March the issue was debated in Parliament during a private members bill put forward by a Labour MP. The majority of MPs voted in favour of decriminalisation but the bill did not reach the next stage because Parliament was dissolved for the election.

The BMA represents two-thirds of Britains 281,000 doctors and acts as their trade union as well as their professional organisation.

The debate is expected to be the most highly charged of the five-day conference. It will take place at the end of a special session to discuss the issue, which is scheduled for June 27.

If the majority of doctors are in favour of decriminalising abortion, the BMA will adopt it as official policy and lobby the Government for a change in the law.

The vote has been put forward by the unions City and Hackney division in East London, led by GP and Labour activist Dr Coral Jones. It has the backing of several of the BMAs most senior members including Professor Wendy Savage, who sits on the ethics committee. But others fear a law change will pave the way for abortions on demand.

The vote could lead to a call for women to be allowed to terminate their pregnancy right up until the due date  and for any reason

To prepare for the vote, doctors have been instructed to read a 52-page discussion paper which sets out both sides.

This document claims to be neutral although it has been jointly prepared by several of the doctors in favour of decriminalising abortions including Professor Savage and Professor Emily Jackson, a pro-choice medical lawyer.

It contains no mention of the fact that more and more extremely premature babies are surviving  prompting calls to lower the 24-week limit.

Official figures show that 190,406 abortions were carried out in England and Wales in 2016, a slight fall on the previous year. But there has been a significant rise in abortions among women over 30.

The BMA said the issue had gathered momentum following the vote by MPs in March and campaigns to decriminalise abortion.

A BMA spokesman said: The BMA supports the Abortion Act as a practical and humane piece of legislation and does not currently have a policy on the decriminalisation of abortion.

We appreciate that this is a sensitive and complex issue, and one on which doctors have a range of views. Thats why there is a special session and two motions on the decriminalisation of abortion for debate at this years ARM  in favour and against decriminalisation  ensuring there is an opportunity for all viewpoints to be heard.
Police are have found three men safe and sound after they tried to call emergency services from the Otways national park.

On Sunday Victorian officers believed they were looking for a missing father and son duo who had got lost about 30 minutes from Forrest-Apollo Bay Rd.

But it has now been revealed there were three men and each were accounted for on Monday afternoon.

On Sunday Victorian officers believed they were looking for a missing father and son duo who had got lost about 30 minutes from Forrest-Apollo Bay Rd

A short time ago police were contacted by a staff member at a backpacker hostel who said she had seen three men return back to the accommodation facility about 6pm on Sunday night.

After hearing the reports of the search today she wondered whether it may be the men police were searching for so contacted authorities.

Police spoke to the Belgian trio today and confirmed one of them had called triple-0 after their car became bogged near Apollo Bay.

After hearing the reports of the search today she wondered whether it may be the men police were searching for so contacted authorities

They managed to get themselves free and return back to their accommodation but did not inform emergency services.

The men are safe and well and have continued their journey today to South Australia.

Halfway through the 'vague' 000 call the men made on Sunday there phone died and police grew concerned about their welfare.

Detectives went searching for unattended cars between Forrest and Lorne in an effort to identify the men whose ages were not known (pictured the Otways)

Detectives went searching for unattended cars between Forrest and Lorne in an effort to identify the men whose ages were not known.

Sergeant Bould said there were 'lots of scenarios' to work through, there first step was to patrol the area for empty cars.

'We're concentrating initially on patrolling main roads through the bush between Forrest and Lorne, to see if we can find them or vehicles that might be unattended,' he said.

'That's our first play and we'll go from there if we find something.'

Earlier, Senior Sergeant Nick Ubergang said police would be out patrolling again on Monday morning to decipher whether the pair had managed to get home safely or not.
A care home tried to charge the family of a vulnerable elderly widow 700 a week for care that was neither needed nor given, a watchdog report said yesterday.

Managers more than doubled her fees then threatened her son with legal action unless he paid almost 15,000.

The bill shot up from 500 a week to 1,200 after the home discovered the council would not be paying her fees and she had enough money to pay.

Capital Care Group owner Mrs Manjeet Rai was forced to apologise over the case

The woman's son was told the 140 per cent increase was necessary to give his 72-year-old mother 'one to one care', it was claimed. But the extra care provided was not needed and the Haresbrook Park home in Worcestershire produced little evidence to back the claim that it was, the report by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman said.

The findings come as the Competition and Markets Authority said the techniques used by care homes to make up the bills for self-funding residents may be illegal and new laws may be needed to stop rip-offs. Yesterday's report from the Ombudsman condemned the behaviour of the home's managers and ordered them to pay back around 15,000 in fees they should never have charged.

It also found a string of faults against Worcestershire County Council and its social workers, who failed to assess the needs of the woman, Mrs C, or take proper responsibility for her care.

In fact the council should have been paying her care home bills throughout the time she was there.

The council should consider whether to stop sending vulnerable people to the home in future, the report added.

The Ombudsman found a string of faults in the assessment of Mrs C

Mrs C went into Haresbrook Park near Tenbury Wells, run by the Capital Care Group, in January 2015. She was thought to be suffering from dementia and had no capacity to take decisions for herself.

Social workers made no proper assessment of the care she needed. However, they decided she had sufficient assets to pay her own fees and she was made to pay 500 a week from February.

But the council was breaking the law, the Ombudsman said. Because she had not nominated anyone to take over her financial affairs, and her family could not do so without a court order, the council should have gone on paying her fees.

In April Haresbrook managers told Mrs C's son the fees would go up by 700 a week and they backdated the increase to the start of March. Mrs C died in August 2015.

A spokesman for the Ombudsman said the home could provide little evidence the extra care was either needed or delivered.

Capital Care Group owner Mrs Manjeet Rai apologised to Mrs C's son yesterday and said that Haresbrook Park now 'clearly documents one to one care to provide evidence to the funder that this is still required and is being delivered as described'.

- Watchdog the Care Quality Commission has threatened to prosecute Bupa if it fails to raise standards after an undercover investigation by Channel 4's Dispatches programme, being shown tonight at 8pm, highlighted alleged 'institutional abuse and neglect' at some of the firm's care homes.

Bupa said it did not accept a number of the accusations but was taking the matter 'very seriously' and working with the CQC.
Fears of a Grenfell Tower cover-up has led to calls for raids to take place on businesses and authorities at the centre of the investigation into the deadly inferno.

The Prime Minister and the Metropolitan Police have been urged to seize any potentially-incriminating evidence before it can be destroyed.

Council chiefs and building firms could face manslaughter charges over the disaster, in which at least 58 have been killed, a former Director of Public Prosecutions has said.

And Labour MP David Lammy demanded urgent action, claiming contractors were expunging details of their work on the tower from their websites.

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Labour MP David Lammy demanded urgent action, claiming contractors were expunging details of their work on the tower from their websites

Many residents who gathered outside the smoldering ruins of the building said the fire had been caused by a faulty fridge in one of the flats

By mid morning, the plastic cladding could be seen charred and melted on the tower in west London

Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders confirmed there was a criminal investigation into the fire that killed at least 58 in the early hours of Wednesday.

Former DPP and Labour MP Sir Keir Starmer told BBC1's Andrew Marr Show: 'I spoke to the DPP yesterday and there are prosecutors already in, advising the police.

'There are wider regulatory offences, but I think manslaughter is the most serious and that's the one that needs to be looked at first.'

Meanwhile, Mr Lammy warned that 'everyone culpable' for the disaster would avoid justice should they be given the opportunity to 'quietly destroy' document.

He said: 'Within the community, trust in the authorities is falling through the floor and a suspicion of a cover-up is rising.

'The Prime Minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law.

'We need urgent action now to make sure that all records and documents relating to the refurbishment and management of Grenfell Tower are protected.'

This aerial photo taken hours after the fire ripped through the tower block shows the devastating scale of the inferno

Mr Hammond was challenged by the BBC's Andrew Marr today on why the material - which is banned in America and Germany - was used on British homes

Mr Lammy added that justice can only done if all records, including emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence, safety assessments and reports - are preserved.

He said: 'When the truth comes out about this tragedy we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations.

'At this stage, it is my grave concern that the families of Grenfell Tower will not get justice if documents are being quietly destroyed and shredded and emails are being deleted.'

Mr Lammy, whose friend Khadija Saye died in the fire, said police had the power to seize all documents.

However he added that Section 35 of the Public Inquiry Act, which makes the destruction of any documents a criminal offence, does not apply until a chairman is appointed to an inquiry and the terms of reference set.

Grenfell Tower, which was built in 1974, before the refurbishment (left) in 2011 and with the new cladding (right before the blaze)

Harley Facades, which was paid 2.6million to supply and fit the cladding, said it had removed the Grenfell Tower page from its website 'as a mark of respect'.

The plastic panels  that even the manufacturer warned were a deadly fire risk  are banned on high-rise buildings in Britain, ministers said yesterday.

Chancellor Philip Hammond said the probe would look at whether regulations had been breached at the tower in North Kensington.
An avid Australian rugby fan has taken to social media with a passionate online post venting his anger at the national side's latest slip up to lowly opposition.

After the Wallabies' embarrassing 24-19 home defeat to Scotland, Jack Quigley took it upon himself to address the abject failure of the side with an in-depth rant shared to the Wallabies' official Facebook page.

The 29-year-old's honest post struck a chord with fellow dejected Wallabies' fans and sympathetic rugby enthusiasts worldwide as his lengthy lament quickly became viral with over 40,000 likes and more than 8,000 comments.

Distraught Wallabies fan Jack Quigley took to Facebook to post a passionate spiel that lambasted the Australian national side following defeat to Scotland at the weekend

The lengthy address on Saturday night targeted the stuttering form of the Wallabies and Mr Quigley's passion for the national side was clear for all to see

In his stark comments he lambasted the side claiming the 'Wallabies are a disgrace' and are hurting people with their 'lack of application' to their jobs.

'When I see you guys run out, I feel like you don't care. I KNOW you don't care, because it shows,' Mr Quigley continued.

Following a string of disappointing results over the last year including a calamitous series against England on home soil last winter, his heartfelt spiel tore Michael Cheika's side to shreds.

'The Wallabies attitude towards the basic skills is unacceptable. A culture of blame-avoidance has been allowed to fester.'

He even went on to offer his services and asked for just 15 minutes to speak face to face with the players in an attempt to motivate the failing stars.

'Give me 15 minutes. That's all I want. To look these guys in the eye and tell them WHAT IT MEANS to be a rugby fan in this country. Because they don't know. They're not fans,' Mr Quigley wrote.

Following their latest embarrassing defeat on Sunday, the whole of the Wallabies side appeared dejected

Mr Quigley's rant quickly went viral as over 40,000 Facebook users liked the post with many offering messages of support to the deflated fan

His post was quickly inundated with messages of support as rugby fans worldwide felt his pain at the hands of his beloved side.

'Well said, echoing the sentiment of many Wallabies supporters,' one comment read.

'Jack I take my hate off to you, you just said what all of us have been thinking for years,' another Facebook user wrote.

Posts of good will were even arriving from the most unlikely of sources as fans of the All Blacks offered their sympathy.

'As a All Blacks supporter I love nothing better than seeing the Wallabies get beat but this guy is hands down 100% correct the Aussie players have lost the passion and I feel sorry for the Aussie fan,' one Kiwi wrote.

Mr Quigley told Daily Mail Australia that he was overwhelmed with the attention the post garnered and was glad he wasn't alone with his thoughts.

'Of course I'm surprised, this was never intended to be this big, this was just the drunken ramblings of a broken man.

'But it appears to have hit a nerve, it seems I'm not the only one who feels this way.'

Despite its growing popularity, the Wallabies' have yet to offer an online response to Mr Quigley's honest dressing down.

And even though Wallabies supporter is yet to hear from the national side personally, he is certain they've seen his post.

'I've heard nothing from the Wallabies but I have been told by a reliable source that they are absolutely aware of it, so the ball's in their court.'

There were jubilant scenes for the Scotland players after they claimed an unlikely victory over the Wallabies at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday

Many Facebook users suggested his message to the side reflected the views of many Wallabies fans across the country

The post was inundated with messages of support, praising Mr Quigley's honesty and also agreeing with his bone picking post

Even rival fans were quick to offer their support as a handful of All Blacks supporters wished for a change in the fortunes of the Wallabies




A grandfather has died after hitting a tree and flying from his motorcycle which he was riding for the first time after it was gifted to him by his son for his 48th birthday.

David Miller, 48, died just before 1pm Saturday while riding down a road in Adelaide's north notorious for hoon riding.

He was killed instantly after losing control of his Honda motorcycle which was a birthday present from his son.

David Miller (pictured), 48, was killed instantly after losing control of his Honda motorcycle which was a birthday present from his son

He died just before 1pm Saturday while riding down a road in Adelaide's north notorious for hoon riding

Daughter Jasmine said the father-of-six and grandfather (pictured) went to try out the motorcycle on his birthday but died on the way back home

Daughter Jasmine said the father-of-six and grandfather went to try out the motorcycle on his birthday but he crashed on the way back home.

'He was a great dad, everyone loved him ... just a fun guy to hang around, nothing but the best,' she told 7 News.

'I just don't know what I'm going to do anymore.'

Friend Duncan Campbell said the tragic loss is one of the 'hardest things' he will go through.

'It knocked me for six, words can't say anything,' he said.

The road was closed for several hours on Saturday while crash investigators inspected the scene.

Police are continuing to investigate if speeding caused Mr Miller to lose control and crash into a tree, according to 7 News.

The road was closed for several hours on Saturday while crash investigators inspected the scene
Almost nine in ten Australians believe the world is a more dangerous place now than it was a year ago.

A new report by Ipsos shows 89 per cent of Australians believe the world has become a more dangerous place in the past year.

Of those who agreed, more than one in three strongly agreed with the idea.

Australia ranked higher than countries like Britain and France, who have both recently witnessed terror attacks on their shores.

While both France and Britain have experienced terror attacks on their shores in the past 12 months, Australians were more concerned about the dangers of the world (pictured: French flags fly atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a show of solidarity for the victims of the Nice terror attacks in July 2016)

In 2014, Sydney experienced a terror attack at the Lindt Cafe in Martin Place (pictured: one year memorial for the Lindt Cafe siege)

The nation was also more cautious of the world's dangers than South Africa, whose legislative capital Cape Town was listed in the top ten most violent cities in the world by Business Insider last year.

Brazil was the most afraid of the world around it, with 95 per cent of respondents agreeing the world had become more dangerous in the past year.

South Korea was a close second, with 94 per cent of respondents agreeing to the statement.

China came in as the world's least afraid, with only 70 per cent of respondents agreeing the world had become more dangerous.

The survey showed almost nine in ten Australians believed the world had become more dangerous in the past year (pictured: one year memorial for the Lindt Cafe siege)

Ipsos Australia research director Laura Demasi says terrorism has no borders and is a 'distinctly global fear' (stock image)

Ipsos Australia research director Laura Demasi told The Age the effects of terrorism were far-reaching and had a big impact on Australia's dim view of the world.

'I don't think borders matter when it comes to terrorism; it's become a distinctly global fear,' she said.

'So when Australians see things happening overseas, there's a sense of when it will happen here, not if.'

On a brighter note though, Australia was seen as the nation with the second most positive influence on world affairs, coming in after Canada.
The bodies of up to 42 people were found in just one room by search and rescue teams combing Grenfell Tower after the fatal fire last week, it has been claimed.

It is believed the remains of the group were discovered inside one of the flats by recovery teams who have been searching the White City tower block over the last few days.

A video uploaded on YouTube shows an unnamed man speaking in front of the burned out tower. He said: 'He said: 'I've got a friend who works for the fire brigade here, yeah? Yesterday on the phone he said they found about 42 bodies in one room, all hiding together. No-one knows that.'

A video uploaded on YouTube shows an unnamed man speaking in front of the burned out tower. He claims the bodies of 42 people were found in just one room

Residents tried to escape from Grenfell Tower (pictured) in west London in the early hours of Wednesday morning

'It's only because we know the brother, he's a fireman, that he told us this - but he can't tell you lot that.

'He can't come out because he'll probably get the sack or something. But he said they found 42 bodies in one room, bruv, in one room. From children to old people.'

The number has not been confirmed by police or the fire service.

A spokesman for London Fire Service said he would be unable to confirm or deny the information and said the police were handling the investigation.

Another photograph shows the destruction caused to the lifts inside the 27-storey tower block (pictured)

And a spokesman for the Met Police said he would not be able to advise on numbers or information relating to the searches so far.

One of the worst disasters in recent history, police have confirmed 79 are thought to have died but the true figure is thought by residents and locals to be much higher.

A friend of victim, who wished to remain unnamed, told MailOnline close to the scene of the tragedy: 'They found 42 bodies in one flat. The word tragic doesn't even begin to describe it. It's heartbreaking. Maybe they went there to comfort each other.'

The landscape of the Lancaster Estate in White City changed forever in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a fire broke out around 1.30pm.

In this image released by Metropolitan Plice, a firefighter is seen surveying the damage outside the entrance to Grenfell Tower

Harrowing images show the charred remains of flats and hallways that were once home to hundreds of families before the blaze broke out on Wednesday morning

Allegedly told to stay in their rooms, residents at the scene say people were sentenced to death when they were told not to leave.

Noha Baghdady's brother Hesham Rahman lived on the 21st floor of Grenfell Tower, on the estate where he grew up.

A retired hairdresser and diabetic, 57-year-old Rahman has not been seen or heard from since he heartbreakingly told his mother he was running out of battery on the fateful morning when flames engulfed the tower block building in North Kensington, London.

Describing the last known moments of Heshman, Noha told MailOnline: 'Our mother called him because she could see fire from where she lives. She told him 'get out of there son, you need to get out'.

These are the people who lived in the tower and are still missing following the blaze on Wednesday

'He called the police and asked for help but he was told to stay put in the flat and to lock the door. He was trapped.'

With tears in her eyes, Noha described how her brother was funny and had a great sense of humour.

'The last time I spoke to him was only the day before, he sent me a hilarious video on WhatsApp that's the sort of man he was,' she said.

Distraught, Noha and her husband said they believed the authorities were deliberately keeping the death toll low.

'The government needs to declare this as a disaster, someone needs to be held accountable,' they said.

'They aren't reporting the proper number of deaths.'

A brace firefighter is pictured inside the burnt remains of the 27-storey building, as efforts are made to investigate what caused the blaze

Firefighters braved extreme temperatures and needed riot shield to protect themselves from falling debris including glass and cladding

A retired hairdresser, Hesham stopped working a few years ago after suffering from diabeties which caused his feet to swell.

In a separate harrowing incident related to the tragedy a mother-of-two recorded her final moments when she became trapped in her flat on the 23rd floor.

In a gut-wrenching video, Rania Ibrham, 30, could be heard asking for help as her frantic neighbours tried to flee their homes on the smoke-filled 23rd floor.

The distressing footage shows the mother-of-two desperately trying to escape but when she realises the she can't leave, she begins to pray asking for help as those online were helpless to save her.

The haunting video has been etched into her friend Fatima's memory who says she can't get the thought out of her mind. Living opposite the enormous tower block where Rania lived, Fatima said she was awake when the fire broke out but was told not to enter the building or to help by the police.

Speaking to MailOnline close to the scene four days on, Fatima broke down and collapsed after describing her rage at a council who 'ignored' them and authorities who told her friend to stay inside.

'They have done nothing, she called for help. They were told to stay up there but she died and her children have died,' Fatima cried.

'The government and the council haven't done anything, it's only the community. We have come together, they thought we wouldn't but we did,' she said.

Residents were trapped 'screaming for their lives' as flames raged through a 27-storey tower block in Notting Hill in the early hours today

On the upsetting video Fatima has watched, she said: 'She kept asking 'how' 'how' 'how'? She wanted to get out but she couldn't, I can't sleep, all I can hear is the screams from the building.'

Tonight as tempers flared outside one of the cordons by the North Kensington tower block, Fatima addressed a crowd about her outrage as nearby tv presenters prepared for a live broadcast.

'People need to know the truth,' she said. 'These were our children, our friends who died.'

Metropolitan Police Commander Stuart Cundy speaking to the media near Grenfell Tower in west London

Rania's devastated husband Hassan Hassan returned to the country from Egypt after hearing the news. Along with his wife, their two daughters Fethia, 5, and Hania, 3, are missing and presumed dead.

Fatima said: 'He just stood outside the building and was crying and crying, what can he do? He's lost his wife and his two children. It's heartbreaking.'

Describing her friend, she said: 'She was a lovely, lovely person. She was so nice. She would do anything for anyone.'

According to her Facebook, Rania studied economics and political science at the University of Oxford and worked in the community as the executive of a homeless outreach team.

On Saturday the Met Police announced the number of expected dead had risen from 30 up to 58 though residents on the ground told MailOnline they anticipated the true figure would be much higher.

A woman who asked not to be named was once of the first to witness the incident after emergency services were alerted on Wednesday morning.

'That place is a graveyard in the sky. There were 600 people there and ask anyone, where are the survivors? Who has seen the survivors? There are loads of volunteers and people who saw it, but hardly anyone made it out. I heard people begging for help and begging for their lives. Most of those people who died had to be children. I haven't been able to sleep,' she cried.

A woman close to the scene heckled the television crews and asked for the media to 'tell the truth'.

'There are more than 58 dead, it's in triple figures,' she called.

The Met Police has been contacted for comment.
Almost exactly a year has passed since British voters told their government to withdraw from the European Union. Today, at last, formal talks get under way.

The idea is being put about that we go into the negotiations with no clear idea of what we want. This is pure hooey.

We have set out our objectives over and over again: in Theresa Mays Lancaster House speech in January, in a White Paper, in the letter that triggered the disengagement process under Article 50.

We want the closest relationship with the EU compatible with being an independent country. We want cross-Channel trade to flow to the benefit of both sides. We want to keep profound links with our European allies in intelligence, policing and the like.

The French president Emmanuel Macron has made a point of saying that the door remains open if Britain wants to come back

And we want to ensure that, at the end of this process, we have ceased to be bad tenants and instead become good neighbours.

How realistic are these things? Many in Brussels, after all, were hurt and bewildered by the Brexit vote. Can we be sure that they will act out of sober self-interest? Will they recognise, as we recognise, that a prosperous neighbour is a good customer? Or might they instead act like an aggrieved partner in a messy divorce?

The French president Emmanuel Macron has made a point of saying that the door remains open if Britain wants to come back. Oh dear! The idea that Britain might crawl back to Brussels, apologising for its mistake, shows an extraordinary misreading of our character, our history  and public opinion.

In fact, Brexit is more popular now than it was a year ago. Most Remainers, being democrats, have accepted the result with good grace.

Only 22 per cent of Britons still want to stay in the EU, and its not hard to see why. The hit to our economy  a key plank of the Remainers so-called Project Fear  which we were warned would follow a Leave vote has spectacularly failed to materialise.

Unemployment was supposed to rise by 250,000 in the two years after the vote. In fact, more people are working than ever before.

Our pensions were meant to be hit in a stock market collapse. In fact, British stocks are the best performing in Europe.

Britain was going to experience a technical recession in 2016. In fact, it grew faster in the six months following the vote than it had in the previous six months, and closed the year as the worlds most successful major economy. Retail activity, consumer confidence, investment, jobs, manufacturing output and growth have all risen. Britain, in short, is not the broken and desperate country that some in Brussels expected to be dealing with.

'Some Eurocrats seem to think that Mrs Mays government has lost so much authority that it has little option but to agree to whatever terms Brussels dictates'

The inconclusive election result has, it is true, hardened attitudes. Some Eurocrats seem to think that Mrs Mays government has lost so much authority that it has little option but to agree to whatever terms Brussels dictates. The EU, they say, has had a year to agree its negotiating position, while Britain has faffed about.

Heaven knows I have my criticisms of British officials in Brussels. Their Europhilia can lead them to scorn public opinion and disregard elected politicians, but their competence is not in doubt. They have also had a year to prepare for these talks, and have put it to good effect.

Several Labour politicians and Remain-voting pundits persist in their demands that Britain stay in the EUs single market and customs union. In fact, as the Chancellor Philip Hammond made clear yesterday, we cant leave the EU while retaining these arrangements.

It is worth taking a moment to understand what the terms mean. The single market doesnt mean a free trade area; it means a single regulatory regime, administered by the European Commission and the European Court of Justice.

Plainly, leaving the EU means leaving the jurisdiction of those bodies. But it doesnt mean that we cant retain many of the contents of the single market through domestic legislation.

Lots of non-EU states, from Guernsey to Switzerland, do this successfully. The basis of the single market is the rule that forbids discrimination against the goods or products of other member states. I see no reason why the UK shouldnt keep that rule: it helps consumers.

The customs union is an arrangement whereby all EU states surrender their trade policy to Brussels and accept a common external tariff around the whole bloc. It has damaged Britain more than the other members, because we are the only state that sells more outside the EU than to the other 27 states.

'In fact, as the Chancellor Philip Hammond made clear yesterday, we cant leave the EU while staying in the EUs single market and customs union'

Staying in the customs union while leaving the EU would be the worst of all worlds: it would mean allowing Brussels to dictate our trade policy while having no say in what that policy should be.

Leaving the customs union does not mean abandoning free trade with the EU. Norway is outside, but sells more than twice as much per head to the EU as we do. Switzerland sells five times as much per head to the EU. The days of moustachioed frontier officers in peaked caps and epaulettes are over; customs checks these days happen online and in advance.

But what it does mean is that we can sign our own deals with the countries with which the EU has so far not agreed trade accords, including Australia, Brazil, China, India and the United States.

One might ask why should the EU seek to maximise trade with Britain after we leave the customs union? The answer is that trade is not an act of generosity, but of self-interest.

The complicating factor is migration. The EU insists that free movement of goods, services and capital is indivisible from free movement of labour. Quite why it should be so stubborn on this point is anyones guess. Other free trade areas around the world separate the two things, and quite a few EU electorates would gladly take back more control of immigration policy.

Still, the EU means what it says. Switzerland is as close to the single market as any country can be without accepting EU jurisdiction, but it is required to allow EU nationals to work on its territory.

There is an immense difference between a bilateral treaty allowing for reciprocal rights of work and study, and a common citizenship which brings enforceable rights on everything from expanding benefits claims to immunity from deportation.

Leaving the EU means taking back control of our laws, money and borders. How we then exercise that control is a question where we should be prepared to be reasonable and generous. Hence, for example, the sensible idea of making a comprehensive offer to guarantee the status of EU nationals already here.

As both sides now accept, we should phase in the changes, allowing businesses on both sides to operate with certainty.

In the referendum campaign I argued that Brexit would be a process, not an event. The day after Brexit should look very like the day before. It will, however, be the day we begin to pursue a different trajectory, towards global markets and domestic deregulation. Lets get cracking.

Daniel Hannan is a Conservative MEP and the author of What Next: How To Get The Best From Brexit.
When Michael Gove was welcomed back to Cabinet last week  as the Environment Secretary  there was joy in surprising quarters.

Stanley Johnson, Boriss father and a veteran environmentalist, declared that the good news is that Mr Michael Gove, a man of immense intelligence and a political heavyweight in his own right even out of office, may well be precisely the right man for this very tricky job. I welcome his appointment.

That generosity of spirit comes as something of a shock, given the bitter aftermath of last years Tory leadership contest when Gove, who was Justice Secretary at the time, famously staged a coup against Boris.

At the 11th hour, he withdrew support from Boris and ran himself (coming a poor third behind Theresa May and Andrea Leadsom).

Back then, Johnson Sr was so appalled by Goves behaviour that he blacklisted his application for the Beefsteak, one of Londons most exclusive gentlemens clubs.

Stanley Johnson (right), Boriss father and a veteran environmentalist declared that the good news is that Mr Michael Gove, a man of immense intelligence and a political heavyweight'. He is pictured with son, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson earlier this year

Michael Gove has been quietly admitted to the centuries-old Beefsteak and, as a result, Johnson Sr, who is on the clubs committee, has resigned his membership

Stanley Johnson said: I cant say anything about that. Im delighted Michael Gove is the Environment Secretary. Curiouser and curiouser!

So has peace now broken out? Despite Stanleys warm words, it seems not. Gove has been quietly admitted to the centuries-old Beefsteak and, as a result, Johnson Sr, who is on the clubs committee, has resigned his membership.

Stanley is an honourable man and will be much missed, says my mole at the Beefsteak, whose members include Lord Lawson, the former Chancellor, and, of course, Boris.

When I asked Stanley about it, he said: I cant say anything about that. I

'm delighted Michael Gove is the Environment Secretary.

Curiouser and curiouser!

BLAIR'S PAL NEEDS A HISTORY LESSON Jonathan Powell, who served as chief of staff to the former British Prime Minister Tony Blair from 2001 to 2007, pictured in 2010 As Tony Blairs chief of staff, Jonathan Powell was a key figure in the Northern Ireland peace process. Powell has now branded a proposed pact between the Tories and the Democratic Unionist Party as sordid. No British government has ever thought of depending on the DUP, he claimed. He has a short memory. Gordon Brown tried and failed to secure the support of the DUP after the inconclusive 2010 election. Meanwhile, in 1997, John Majors administration had a majority of one but survived courtesy of the Ulster Unionists and Labour PM Jim Callaghan struck a deal with Unionists in 1979 when his government was on its deathbed. Advertisement

The Labour MP Angela Eagle played up her woman of the people credentials by declaring her love of Lidl when she appeared as a panellist on Have I got News For You. She is pictured launching her leadership big in July last year

Robert Harris, the Labour-supporting best-selling novelist, tweets: Imagine Churchill in 1940 refusing to meet the bombed-out victims in the East End. Who was he referring to?

Former Lib Dem MP David Alton, now a crossbench peer, has defended Tim Farron, who quit as party leader because of the conflict over his Christian beliefs. Its ironic that a party I joined as a teenager because of the belief in conscience, human rights and free speech, has morphed into something so narrow and intolerant...

A panellist on BBC1s Have I Got News For You, the Labour MP Angela Eagle played up her woman of the people credentials by declaring her love of Lidl, the no-frills supermarket chain. Asked about the company, she said she thought it was Italian or Spanish. Sorry, Angela, but its German.

While in Coalition, Gove was the Lib Dems least favourite Tory minister (left). They have now learned the new Environment Secretary is to deliver a lecture recounting his admiration for David Lloyd George (right), the last Liberal Prime Minister

The Lib Dems also have reason to be less than impressed with Michael Gove at the moment.

While in Coalition, Gove was the Lib Dems least favourite Tory minister and they have now learned the new Environment Secretary is to deliver a lecture recounting his admiration for David Lloyd George (right), the last Liberal Prime Minister.

The honour has befallen Gove because it was he who intervened to secure the future of the Lloyd George Museum in Llanystumdwy, North Wales, when it was earmarked for closure last year.

Lloyd George is one of my great heroes which is one of the many reasons I was so keen to do what I could to help the museum, and was delighted to be invited to deliver the lecture, says Gove.

Nick Clegg is reported to be seething.
A Nazi machine gun with 60 rounds of ammunition has been seized by police during a routine highway search.

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command stopped a Holden Commodore near The Entrance, on the NSW Central Coast, at 7.40pm before they made the discovery.

A bag containing an MP40 submachine gun with a missing barrel, a firearm magazine and 60 rounds of various ammunition was seized.

The weapon was developed in Nazi Germany and used extensively in the Second World War, according to the ABC.

A bag containing an MP40 submachine gun with a missing barrel, a firearm magazine and 60 rounds of various ammunition was seized

Initial examination of the firearm suggested it is in working order.

Australian War Memorial senior curator Shane Casey told the ABC any German history buff would recognise the iconic gun for its use during the 1939-45 war years.

'It's a very robust weapon and was also souvenired during the war by Allied soldiers,' he said.

'Initially it would have been designed to be carried by troops in vehicles or paratroopers because it's quite small and has a folding stock.'

Officers from Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command stopped a Holden Commodore near The Entrance (pictured) at 7.40pm before they made the discovery

A 40-year-old man who was a passenger in the car was arrested and taken to Wyong Police Station.

He was charged with possessing a prohibited firearm and possessing ammunition without a permit and refused bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on Monday.

The firearm will undergo forensic examination to determine if it can be linked to any shooting incidents.

Investigations are continuing.
The short-term boyfriend of Carly McBride has been charged with her 2014 murder, with police alleging he was 'jealous' of her relationship with another man.

Sayle Kenneth Newson was arrested on Monday by officers from Strike Force Karabi at a property in San Remo, on the New South Wales central coast.

Newson, 39, had been dating Ms McBride, 31, for eight weeks when she vanished on September 30, 2014 after visiting her former partner Andrew Easton earlier that day.

Ms McBride body was found in bushland at Scone, in the Hunter Valley region, last August, with a post-mortem revealing she died from repeated blunt force trauma.

On Monday afternoon, Newson was charged with murder and refused bail, with NSW police earlier revealing another man - currently behind bars at Lithgow Correctional Centre - will also be charged with her murder later this week.

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Sayle Newson, the short-term boyfriend of Carly McBride (pictured) is expected to be charged with her 2014 murder, as police allege he was 'jealous' of her relationship with another man

Ms McBride, a mother-of-two, vanished in September 2014, before her remains were found in bushland (pictured) in August last year

At a press conference on Monday, NSW police superintendent Steve Clarke said Newson and another man - who will be arrested at Lithgow Correctional Centre later this week - would both be charged with Ms McBride's (pictured) murder

Hunter Valley superintendent Steve Clarke said prosecutors would rely on Newson's claims he was a champion 'Muay Thai' fighter who had never lost.

'The man in custody here has indicated to us that his former profession was as a boxer and Muay Thai champion,' Supt Clarke said.

'He claims to have a record of 20 wins and no losses, that is significant here in this particular investigation.'

Supt Clarke said police would also allege there was a relationship between Newson, who is currently in custody at Wyong Police Station, and Ms McBride.

He said it was alleged that Newson and his co-offender had acted out of 'jealousy'.

'It would appear there may be an aspect of jealously involved in this particular murder,' Supt Clarke said.

Ms McBride left this Belmont, NSW house on September 30 2014 and never returned

It was last year revealed Ms McBride had been arguing with her ex-partner moments before she went missing. She had been at his property to visit her young daughter (pictured)

Police investigating the case have previously spoken to James Cunneen, a friend of Newson's, about her disappearance.

During a search of his property in the hunt for Ms McBride, police charged Cunneen with drug and firearm offences. The 26-year-old was jailed over the offences.

Monday's breakthrough comes after Ms McBride's remains were found in bushland at Scone, in the Hunter Valley region of NSW, last August.

Earlier last year it was revealed Newson had dropped off Ms McBride at the house of her ex-partner Andrew Easton on the day she disappeared.

The mother-of-two was visiting her three-year-old daughter, but when Newson came back to collect her he was told she'd stormed off after a dispute with Mr Easton, the Daily Telegraph reports.

The 31-year-old's body was found at Scone, in the Hunter Valley region of northern New South Wales (pictured)

On Monday, police claimed that on the day she disappeared, Newson and his co-offender drove to the area in Scone (pictured) where her body was found

She was thought to have gone to McDonald's, just a four-minute drive away, however police believe she never made it there.

On Monday, Supt Clarke said prosecutors will allege that the men who murdered her used her credit card to buy drinks at a restaurant on the day she disappeared.

'We will allege that shortly after her disappearance the man in custody here and his co-offender travelled to the Scone area,' he said.

'Prior to travelling to the Scone area we will allege they went to a local restaurant and used her keycard to purchase some drinks.'
Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones hemmed and hawed when pressed repeatedly by Megyn Kelly to admit he was wrong to call the Sandy Hook massacre a hoax.

But the controversial Infowars host never gave a direct answer in a segment on Sunday night on NBC's Sunday Night with Megyn Kelly.

Kelly had been plagued with intense criticism for giving a platform to Jones - with critics labeling the decision to air the interview on Father's Day as 'disgusting' and 'shameful'.

Yet following the show, many on Twitter applauded the NBC host for the interview that Jones had earlier tried to discredit as a hit piece.

Kelly started on Sunday night addressing the widespread controversy surrounding the pre-taped interview with the Infowars host, acknowledging that Jones' 'outrageous statement' had prompted outcry.

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Megyn Kelly repeatedly asked conspiracy theorist Alex Jones to admit he was wrong to call the Sandy Hook massacre a hoax during an interview that aired on NBC on Sunday night

During the interview, Kelly read to Jones parts of his claims that the massacre in Newtown, Connecticut didn't happen.

'At that point, that's pretty much what I believed,' Jones said when read on portion of his claims made after the 2012 shootings.

'You're trying to have it all ways, right?' she asked about his Sandy Hook claims. 'If you wrongly went out there and said it was a hoax, that's wrong.'

He responded: 'What I already answered your question was, listeners and other people were covering this, I didn't create that story.'

Jones was quickly interrupted by Kelly, who put her head in her hands as she said: 'Alex, the parents, one after the other, devastated, the dead bodies that the coroner autopsied'

'They've locked all that, won't release any of it,' he replied.

Kelly asked: 'All the parents decided to come out and about their dead children? What happened to the children?'

'I didn't say that... I will sit there on the air and look at every position and play Devil's advocate,' he said in his defense.

Alex Jones, the controversial Infowars host, never gave a direct answer in a segment on Sunday night on NBC's Sunday Night with Megyn Kelly

Kelly has been plagued with intense criticism for giving a platform to Jones - with some labelling the decision to air the interview on Father's Day as 'disgusting' and 'shameful'

At one point during the interview, a clearly frustrated Kelly held her head in her hands as she questioned Jones about his statements on Sandy Hook

'When you say parents faked their children's death, people get very angry,' Kelly said.

'Oh I know,' he replied. 'But they don't get angry about the half million dead Iraqis from the sanctions. Or they don't get angry about all the illegals pouring in '

'That's a dodge,' Kelly said.

He hit back: 'No, no. It's not a dodge. The media never covers all the evil wars it's promoted and all the big things  Here's the difference. I looked at all the angles of Newtown. And I made my statements long before the media even picked up on it.

'I tend to believe that children probably did die there. But then you look at all the other evidence on the other side. I can see how other people believe that nobody died there.'

Kelly also interviewed Neil Heslin whose six-year-old son was killed in the massacre.

'You know, it's disrespectful to me where in fact I did lose my son... And the 26 other families lost somebody. And I take that very personal,' he told Kelly of the hoax claims made by Jones.

She asked Heslin what he would say to Jones, especially given the interview was to air on Father's Day.

'I think he's blessed to have his children to spend the day with, to speak to. I don't have that,' he said.

Kelly started the show on Sunday night addressing the widespread controversy surrounding the pre-taped interview with the Infowars host

While she was criticised, Kelly was also applauded for the interview, which Jones had earlier tried to discredit as a hit piece

Critics lashed out at Kelly and NBC on Sunday night following the episode and the decision to air it on Father's Day.

'This is your Father's Day episode? Disgusting. Shame on you. You know it's wrong. Face your own children and defend this demon and his bile,' one wrote.

Another said: 'Imagine losing your child and then having to deal with Father's Day while Megyn Kelly & NBC profit off you.'

'Does this make you feel good @megynkelly ? You will be remembered & hated for this. You only have yourself to blame,' another wrote.

But many more applauded the interview, which Jones had earlier tried to discredit as a hit piece.

The rest of Kelly's interview touched on Jones downplaying his connection with Donald Trump and covered topics like the recent terror attack in Manchester, England.

'I think my influence on Trump is way, way lower than what (mainstream media) has said,' he said, adding that he and the president were 'friendly,' but not friends.

Jones called the victims of the Manchester attack 'liberal trendies, the same people - God love them - on average who are promoting open borders, bringing Islamists in'.

When Kelly noted one of the victims was just an 8-year-old girl, Jones said the mainstream media 'misinterpreted' his comments.

'The media misrepresenting and clipping that the way you did. I got home at, like, 6, heard about it. The ages of the victims weren't even known. But they were saying it was jihadi. And I said, 'How crazy is it that liberal trendies are now the victims?' And then I start going and looking.

'Of course, if there's kids being killed by Muslims, I'm not saying that it's their fault. Of course, if kids are the victims, I'm not saying it's their fault.'

The rest of Kelly's interview touched on Jones downplaying his connection with Donald Trump and covered topics like the recent terror attack in Manchester, England

What's the fuss: The 30-minute audio featured Kelly fawning over Jones and saying how impressed she became with him after following his child custody hearing(above in Texas on June 6 when Kelly conducted the interview)

NBC's Connecticut station WVIT refused to air the controversial interview on Sunday night. The station serves an area that includes Newtown, the city in which the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting took place in 2012.

In an internal memo obtained by The Associated Press, NBC Connecticut staff members were told station executives made the decision after listening to concerns from employees, Sandy Hook families and viewers and considering 'the deep emotions from the wounds of that day that have yet to heal.'

As the backlash continued, Kelly was fired from her post as host of the Sandy Hook Promise charity's annual gala.

Kelly's sit-down with Jones will air Sunday at 7pm on NBC (pair above)

Lawyers who represent 12 people who lost loved ones at Sandy Hook urged NBC News officials not to air the interview. NBC News Chairman Andy Lack told the Associated Press that the Jones story would be edited with its critics in mind.

Kelly opted to interview a parent of one of the shooting victims to help balance out the segment.

Jones started releasing secretly recorded audio of his interview with Kelly prior to the segment airing on NBC. He accused Kelly of conjuring up a hit piece on him, despite her telling him she wasn't trying to create a segment that made him look foolish or dumb.

In the secret recordings, Kelly can be heard telling Jones how much she hopes to profile him rather than churn out a hit piece.

She went on to admit that he first came to her attention while he was battling with his ex-wife in court.

'The reason you are interesting to me is because I followed your custody case and I think you had a very good point about the way the media was covering it,' Kelly said.

'And for some reason they treated you and your family as fair game, and they never would have done that with a mainstream-media figure.'

Kelly continued: 'I saw a different side of you and you became very fascinating to me. Your comments during the trial just reminded me you are just like anybody and I thought that would be an interesting story to tell.'

Jones later said he knew the whole thing was a lie and that Kelly was the first journalist he has recorded.

'I knew it was all a lie. I said, 'Sandy Hook happened,' and she wouldn't even put it in the promo pieces. So we're going to release, oh yeah, we're going to release the pre-interview. And then when they put their fraud out on Sunday, which I've asked them not to air because they're misrepresenting who I am and saying I'm as bad as Saddam Hussein, or Jeffrey Dahmer, or Charles Manson.'
A refugee who worked as a doctor in Iraq before fleeing to Australia is the oldest student to sit the HSC exams this year at 50 years old.

Unable to obtain proof of his previous degree, Hekmat Alqus Hanna is repeating his studies so he can once again work as a general physician after immigrating to the country as a humanitarian refugee in 2012.

Despite his age and experience, Mr Hanna told The Sydney Morning Herald he was nervous about his upcoming exam.

Hekmat Alqus Hanna, 50, is the eldest student to sit for the HSC exam this year

Mr Hanna said he worked as a doctor near Mosul (pictured) for 17 years but was unable to show proof of his degree after his family fled in 2010

'I want to do advanced medical science at the University of New South Wales, but I need an ATAR of 96,' Mr Hanna said.

'I'm doing my best but I don't know if my marks are good enough. I hope I can do better in the HSC.'

The father-of-three said he worked as a doctor in a village near Mosul, in Iraq, for 17 years before it became an Islamic State stronghold.

He and his family began receiving death threats in 2010.

They fled to Lebanon where they waited for two years before being accepted into Australia.

Not long after settling in, Mr Hanna enrolled in English classes before starting Year 11 at Bankstown Senior College

Mr Hanna and his family fled from Iraq (pictured) to Lebanon where they waited for two years before being accepted into Australia

Doctors trained overseas can work in Australia if they have proof of their degrees, according to the Australian Medical Council.

Those who do not, like Mr Hanna, have to repeat their studies  which can include six years for an undergraduate degree, followed by three years of training to become a general practitioner, a spokeswoman for UNSW told The Sydney Morning Herald.

The work load hasn't deterred the 50-year-old, who is the eldest of 12 mature students expected to sit the HSC this year.

'I have to become a doctor again because in my previous life, I was only a doctor,' he said. 'I don't know how to do anything else.'

Mr Hanna said his wife has also enrolled at Bankstown Senior College and was studying to become a nurse.
Never-before-published memos show Watergate prosecutors had evidence that operatives for former President Richard Nixon were planning assaults on anti-war demonstrators and a high-profile Vietnam whistleblower.

An 18-page 1973 investigative memorandum, obtained by NBC News, shows how prosecutors were investigating attempts by Nixon aides or administration staff to 'beat-up' protesters.

One of the targets was Daniel Ellsberg, the activist who leaked the Pentagon Papers in 1969 and showed the government believed they didn't have the resources to win the Vietnam War.

A plot to physically attack Ellsberg would be notable as the former Pentagon official has long-alleged that Nixon operatives did more than steal his medical files, the most well-known effort to discredit him.

Newly-released memos show evidence that found operatives of former President Richard Nixon (pictured in August 1974, with son-in-law David Eisenhower) were planning assaults on anti-war demonstrators

A memo obtained by NBC showed that Nixon aides had planned an attack on Vietnam whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg (pictured in January 1972), who released the Pentagon Papers

The Pentagon Papers, released in 1969, showed the government believed they didn't have the resources to win the Vietnam War. Aides would later steal Ellsberg's (pictured in April 2015) medical files in an attempt to discredit him

Ellsberg claimed that in May 1972, the White House had flown 'Cuban-American CIA "assets" from Miami to Washington to disrupt a rally that I and others were addressing on the steps of the Capitol' with orders 'to incapacitate [me] totally,' according to his memoirs.

Nixon officials vehemently denied the accusation and there were no indictments.

However, a memo written on June 5, 1975, by Watergate special prosecutor Nick Akerman, showed that prosecutors were in fact investigating the alleged attacks by Nixon aides.

The attack would be on 'long-haired demonstrators, in particular Ellsberg', the prosecutors' memo states, with the objective of 'simply having Ellsberg beaten up'.

However, 'they were unable to reach him for some reason,' Akerman told MSNBC's The Point on Sunday.

Prosecutors determined that White House counsel Charles Colson had directed the operation, which Colson denied.

The attack would be on 'long-haired demonstrators, in particular Ellsberg,' the prosecutors' memo states, with the objective of 'simply having Ellsberg beaten up (Pictured, Nixon resigns the presidency in August 1974 as First Lady Pat Nixon, center, and daughter Tricia Nixon look on)

A memo written on June 5, 1975, by Watergate special prosecutor Nick Akerman, showed that prosecutors were investigating the alleged attacks by Nixon aides (Pictured, police evidence of the break-in at the Watergate hotel)

Akerman's memo also suggests that Nixon was briefed on aspects of the plot, because aides John Ehrlichman and Bob Haldeman said the story 'might someday hurt the president' if links to Nixon operatives were revealed, which was to prove fruitless post-Watergate scandal (Pictured, ex-Nixon aide John Dean swears in to testify on the Watergate break-in)

Colson pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice related to stealing Ellsberg's medical files, but was never charged for conduct related to this plot.

The memo addresses that distinction, noting that while prosecutors concluded Colson was involved, the evidence they had 'would not be sufficient to indict Colson.'

Akerman told NBC News that 'it was the release of the Pentagon Papers that really set [Nixon] off.'

Akerman's memo also suggests that Nixon was briefed on aspects of the plot, because aides John Ehrlichman and Bob Haldeman said the story 'might someday hurt the president' if links to Nixon operatives were revealed.
Australian building regulations will be examined by a Senate committee in the wake of the deadly London residential tower fire.

At least 58 people died in the high-rise blaze that may have been fuelled by the same flammable cladding found to be responsible for the Lacrosse apartment tower fire in Melbourne three years ago.

Labor senator Chris Ketter, who chairs the Senate economics committee, said he will direct it to look at national regulations.

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Australian building regulations will be examined by a Senate committee in the wake of the deadly London residential tower fire (pictured)

At least 58 people died in the blaze that may have been fuelled by the same flammable cladding found to be responsible for the Lacrosse apartment tower fire (pictured) in Melbourne three years ago

Almost 3000 buildings in Sydney reportedly have cladding smilar to Grenfell Tower and about half of Melbourne's apartment blocks (pictured) have the cladding

'We see it as being a timely reminder that we as parliamentarians should be doing everything we possibly can to ensure that that never happens,' he said on Monday.

Building regulations were examined in November 2015 after the Lacrosse fire, but Senator Ketter said he was concerned about the rate of progress.

'This is an example of the Senate again seeking to shine a light on this issue to ensure that this terrible situation doesn't occur in Australia,' he said.

'There's always the possibility that things could slip through the cracks here.'

The committee hopes to hold public hearings within the next month, bringing in experts, the building construction board and unions to examine the issue.

Crossbench senator Nick Xenophon supported calls for further review and said there needed to be a national audit of buildings around the country.

'The London tragedy is more than just a wake-up call,' he told reporters in Canberra.

'There are now no excuses for any government at a local, state or federal level not to do everything possible to ensure the safety of the occupants and visitors to those buildings.'

Building regulations were examined in November 2015 after the Lacrosse fire, but Senator Ketter said he was concerned about the rate of progress (stock image)

The announcement of the Senate committee follows reports that thousands of Australian buildings are clad in material like that used on the 120-apartment block in west London.

The New South Wales government is expected to discuss the establishment of a strikeforce to urgently identify fire-prone buildings at a meeting on Monday, The Daily Telegraph reported.

Under changes being reported, the strikeforce will pinpoint properties across the state with a high fire danger due to factors such as combustible cladding.

Building owners would then be given 30 days to carry out a fire safety inspection and could also be told to remove and replace the cladding.

The Grenfell Tower blaze broke out in the early hours of June 14, with 58 people dead, or missing, presumed dead

NSW Fair Trading Minister Matt Kean has vowed to do whatever it takes to protect residents.

Other measures being floated by the government include lobbying its federal counterpart to put an import ban on the kind of cladding used on the Grenfell Tower and ensuring annual fire statements mention a building's cladding.

Local councils will also be asked to detail the work they have carried out following concerns raised in February 2016 about flammable cladding.

Almost 3000 buildings in Sydney reportedly have aluminium composite cladding and about half of Melbourne's apartment blocks have the cladding.

Fifty-eight people are now dead, or missing presumed dead, following the Grenfell Tower blaze, which broke out in the early hours of June 14.

Fears emerged cladding used inside and outside the housing block was a major factor in it quickly becoming engulfed in flames.
A man has captured the moment a mysterious 'mushroom cloud' formed over the Woomera military testing range in outback South Australia.

Jason Wright snapped images of the cloud shortly after he says his drone was forced to the ground prior to hearing a loud explosion while he was near the testing range.

Mr Wright told Daily Mail Australia he had stopped off along the Sturt Highway with his partner and children to see Lake Hart on Saturday when the unusual incident occurred.

Jason Wright took a photo of a 'mushroom cloud' which formed over the Woomera Prohibited Area on Saturday while he was on the edge of Lake Hart. Pictured in the photo is his partner Ariane Montminy-Roberge

The 'mushroom cloud' was seen during the day after Mr Wright said he heard a loud explosion while he was near the Lake Hart tourist rest area

The experienced drone flyer had set-up his drone to take photos near the Lake Hart tourist rest area on the edge of the salt lake when he says it came down out of his control and made a hard landing.

Mr Wright, who lives in Coober Pedy, believes the drone's GPS-based tracker may have been interfered with.

About a minute after the drone fell, a 'fireball' erupted in the far distance, estimated to be as high as a 30-storey building, with the 'mushroom cloud' forming.

'It was quite a spectacular explosion. It was very bright and there was a lot of heat in it,' he said.

A screen shot from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's 'Can I Fly There?' app which Mr Wright said showed he was able to fly his drone where he was while visiting Lake Hart. The red circle is an exclusion zone

The Woomera Range complex in South Australia is 'the largest land testing range in the world' (stock image)

Parts of the massive Lake Hart have warning signs because of issues such as 'live bombs' (stock image)

Mr Wright said despite criticisms he should not have been flying a drone in the area, he said the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's 'Can I fly there?' app showed was able to have a drone up to 45 metres where he was standing.

The Woomera Prohibited Area 'is used for the testing of war materiel' and is 'the largest land testing range in the world'.

Exclusion zones are in place at various locations within the prohibited area at different times of the year while military equipment is tested.

One is currently in place until June 30.

In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, the Department of Defence said: 'No weapons were being tested; the activity was a demolition of war materiel'.

'Defence did not carry out any action to impact the unmanned aircraft,' the statement said.

'Defence carries out operations for the testing of war materiel within the Woomera Prohibited Area. This includes capability being developed and tested for use for defence purposes. The photograph was the result of the demolition of war materiel.

'An unauthorised person must obtain a permit or approval to enter the Woomera Prohibited Area.

'In addition to the entry requirements, all unmanned aerial vehicle or remotely piloted aircraft operators must comply with the requirements of Part 101 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998, this includes requirements associated with operating within a designated restricted area (for the purpose of regulation 6 of the Airspace Regulations 2007).

'The Woomera Prohibited Area includes restricted areas for the purposes of the Airspace Regulations 2007 and these areas may be active during periods of defence testing activities.'
Fears are growing of a third terror attack in as many months on London's streets after a van ploughed into pedestrians this morning.

More than ten people were run down near Finsbury Park Mosque as Muslims finished Ramadan evening prayers.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing bystanders wrestle the suspect to the floor and pin him down until officers arrived.

The incident comes almost three months to the day since Khalid Masood killed five people after mounting the pavement at Westminster Bridge and stabbing a police officer to death.

Police were called just after midnight to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road

Khuram Butt lies dying in Borough Market shortly after he was shot by armed police

The incident comes almost three months to the day since Khalid Masood killed five people after mounting the pavement at Westminster Bridge and stabbing a police officer to death

Earlier this month, three Jihadis drove into pedestrians on London Bridge before launching a knife attack in Borough Market, killing 8 and wounding another 48.

This morning, the leader of Finsbury Park mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, told The Sun: 'Whoever did this, he did it to hurt people and it's a terrorist attack.

'We call it a terrorist attack as we called it in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge.'

He added he heard there had been fatalities but did not want to 'jump to conclusions.'

A Metropolitan Police helicopter was seen circling overhead as photographs posted on social media showed a huge response from the emergency services.

Dozens of police cars and vans cordoned off a large area of the normally bustling thoroughfare as stunned locals gathered at the scene.

Images on Twitter appeared to show a clean-shaven white man with black hair being detained by police officers behind a van, surrounded by a group of shouting onlookers.

One man was arrested at the scene. The suspect is pictured here being handcuffed next to a police vehicle

A pile of blankets can be seen, amid fears that there may have been fatalities in the attack

The vehicle in question appears to have been rented from a company based in Wales, Pontaclun Van Hire.

A woman named Hajal said her sister witnessed the immediate aftermath of the incident.

She told LBC Radio: 'Everyone was just running everywhere she didn't realise what was going on at first until she people on the floor.

'She ran to see first victim and realised it was a family friend.'

'An old man didn't have a pulse. Police came and took over. She said it could have been an accident.

'At first she thought there was some sort of fight. There were 15 to 20 people hitting somebody - she didn't realise it was the man who ran over the people.

Rescue teams at the scene investigating as other emergency service members huddle together to discuss the operation
A Coles shopper has discovered a 'very dangerous' live wasp inside her sealed bag of four leaf lettuce.

The disgruntled customer Kyla Elisabeth posted a video of the black and yellow speckled wasp walking inside her bag of produce onto Coles official Facebook page on Sunday.

She said in the caption: 'Live European wasp found in this sealed bag of four leaf lettuce mix. Purchased from Coles Newton in South Australia. Very dangerous and very disappointing.'

'Live European wasp found in this sealed bag of four leaf lettuce mix. Purchased from Coles Newton in South Australia. Very dangerous and very disappointing'

Social media was quick to comment on the critter, with one person even suggesting it was a native flower wasp rather than a European bug.

Ms Elisabeth replied to the comment and said: 'I don't think it actually matters what type of wasp it is. It doesn't belong in a bag of lettuce.'

Another user commented on the 'fabulous' find by suggesting the appearance of an animal meant pesticides had been minimal during the production process.

'Haha being stung in the throat doesn't really appeal to me,' Ms Elisabeth replied in response.

This is the second time in a week Coles has been hit with complaints about produce, with a picture of a cauliflower found to have a poo-like substance in it posted to the supermarket's Facebook page

Ironically users pointed out that the bag of lettuce reads 'washed and ready to eat' on it.

'Hell bloody no it ain't,' someone joked on Facebook.

Ms Elisabeth told concerned social media users that she didn't open the bag and would be taking it back into the store on Monday.

This is the second time in a week Coles has been hit with complaints about produce, with a picture of a cauliflower found to have a poo-like substance in it posted to the supermarket's Facebook page.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Coles for comment.
The socialite niece of publishing legend Ita Buttrose has been fined $1000 for assaulting a policeman outside her upmarket home in Sydney's eastern suburbs after officers responded to a panic alarm.

Lizzie Buttrose had been arguing with her fiance Zoran Stopar over her dogs when she challenged police to a fight when they attended their Vaucluse house late last year.

Other officers responded after answering a panic button call.

'Do you wanna go?', she yelled.

Ita Buttrose's niece Lizzie Buttrose has been convicted and fined $1000 for assaulting a cop

Lizzie Buttrose leaves Waverley Local Court with her fiance Zoran Stopar on Monday

Lizzie Buttrose had been arguing with her fiance Zoran Stopar over her dogs when she challenged police to a fight when they attended their Vaucluse home late last year

'Come on then. Do you wanna f...... go? I'll fight you. I can fight.'

The 48-year-old woman, whose famous publisher aunt Ita was Australian of the Year in 2013, then pushed two clenched fists into the chest of a male constable.

Wearing pyjamas, she was handcuffed and sat on the ground, a statement of facts in court said.

'When arrested, the accused appeared to be slightly affected by intoxicating liquor and stated, 'Can you get my thongs?,' the statement said.

Buttrose later told police: 'I'm sorry. I didn't mean to. I tripped. I tripped because I was wearing thongs.'

She was kept in a police van dressed in her pyjamas for two hours then moved to a cell at Waverley for five more hours.

Her defence lawyer Michael Bowe said Buttrose's time in custody had been a degrading punishment.

'That must have been an extremely humiliating experience for a woman,' Mr Bowe said.

Buttrose pleaded guilty on Monday in Waverley Local Court to assaulting a police officer in the execution of his duty about 9pm on October 13 last year.

Lizzie Buttrose pleaded guilty to assault in Waverley Local Court with her fiance Zoran Stopar by her side

Lizzie Buttrose looked a lot more youthful in 2006 when she attended the Laugh Out Loud! party

Ita Buttrose, who was Australian of the Year in 2013, is the aunt of a naughty socialite

Police had responded to a panic alarm activated in Buttrose's home and arrived to find her shouting about her dogs.

'Get the f*** off my property,' she yelled. 'I want my f***ing dogs back.'

Mr Stopar, who was in court to support Buttrose on Monday, had taken her dogs for a walk and returned home with them shortly afterwards.

Buttrose then came outside her home and started shouting about the two animals again.

'Give me back my f***ing dogs!' she yelled.

Buttrose then argued with police and assaulted Constable Owen Sharman.

It was never established how or why the panic alarm was activated but it was the fourth time police had attended the Buttrose address in two years.

Buttrose had asked for leniency from magistrate Lisa Stapleton, citing a long battle with depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse.

Lizzie Buttrose has a long history of drink driving offences dating back to 1992

Dressed in a black coat, Lizzie Buttrose leaves Waverley Local Court with her fiance

Lizzie Buttrose clutches a manila envelope after pleading guilty to assaulting a police officer

Mr Bowe said his client's problems had begun after an 'acrimonious' divorce in 2003 and she had been seeing a psychiatrist.

'She continues on to address all the issues that have beset her,' the lawyer said.

Buttrose, a mortgage finance broker, had recently started her own business, Stringray Mortgage Solutions.

The mother-of-two had been involved in charity work for many years.

'In every way she presents as a very strong supporter of our community in the way that she operates and raises her children, aside from this particular night,' Mr Bowe said.

However, Ms Stapleton noted at the time of the assault Buttrose was already on a good behaviour bond for low-range drink driving imposed in April last year.

That was her third drink driving offence, following mid range readings in 2012 and 1992.

Ms Stapleton said police had only gone to the Buttrose home in response to a panic alarm and were there to ensure her safety.

'Without provocation you decided to assault the constable,' she said.

Ms Stapleton said Buttrose had been 'slightly intoxicated' but 'completely disinhibited'.

She fined Buttrose $1000, convicted her of drink driving and disqualified her from driving for one month.

Outside court, Mr Bowe said Buttrose would be appealing against the conviction.

Assault convictions can prevent people from entering other countries, like the United States.
A young Queensland man who miraculously survived a horror car crash in his childhood has died following a motorbike accident.

Cory Duncan, 21, had been riding his dirt bike with a friend on a sand track near McGregor Road in Cairns suburb Smithfield on Sunday when he fell from his bike.

Paramedics were called to the scene at 2.15pm after he had suffered serious chest injuries and was taken to Cairns hospital where he died a few hours later.

Cory Duncan, 21, suffered fatal injuries when he fell from his dirt bike on Sunday afternoon in Cairns, Queensland

Mr Duncan was riding on a sand track just off McGregor Road in Smithfield (pictured) when he fell from his dirt bike

His death comes nine years after he was involved in another horrifying accident, where he sustained life-threatening injuries as a 12-year-old passenger in a head-on collision in The Tablehands region, south of Cairns.

Mr Duncan had managed to make an astonishing recovery after doctors had told him he may never walk again.

With the support of his Freshwater State School friends, who set up a fundraising foundation in his name, he was able to continue pursuing his hobby of motorbike riding.

Following his death, his family were understandably devastated and too traumatised to speak, according to Cairns Forensic Crash Unit Sgt Scott Ezard.

'As a family they are trying to come to terms with what has unfolded,' he told The Cairns Post.

'They're obviously distraught and upset by the circumstances that he was doing the right thing.

'He was riding with a mate just having a great time on a Sunday afternoon.'

Police continue their investigations into the crash.
Rebel Wilson could have made up to $6million following the success of Pitch Perfect 2 if it hadn't been for defamatory articles published about her, a Hollywood talent manager has claimed.

Last week, Wilson, 37, won her case against Bauer Media - the publisher of Woman's Day, Australian Women's Weekly, NW and OK magazine.

On Monday, a report from Peter Principato was presented before the Supreme Court of Victoria stating the actress should have been offered for roles after Pitch Perfect 2 was released.

Mr Principato said he believed Wilson could have earned up to $6 million after the film and saw 'no other reason (other than defamatory magazine articles)' to explain why she wasn't offered roles, Nine News reports.

Hollywood star Rebel Wilson will make her bid to get millions in lost earnings after winning her defamation case against a gossip magazine publisher

But Bauer Media's defence lawyer said his opinion was 'mere speculation.'

Georgina Schoff QC said Mr Principato offers no 'path of reasoning' to support his opinion and it is mere speculation the publications alone were why she lost roles.

'There might be any number of reasons Ms Wilson was not chosen,' she said.

But Wilson's defence said Mr Principato's evidence is relevant given he could not identify any other factor to explain her loss of career trajectory.

The publisher was found to have defamed her in eight articles in May 2015 by claiming she was a serial liar about her real name, age and childhood to make it in Hollywood.

Submissions on how much money the actor should receive started on Monday.

Her lawyers will argue she's owed millions because she lost roles in Kung Fu Panda 3 and Trolls after the series of defamatory articles were published.

It's understood Wilson will apply for special damages and will use Hollywood agent and producer Peter Principato to provide expert evidence regarding her claimed losses.
Journalist Laura Turner and her family are the latest names on an ever-growing list demanding an injection room in Victoria.

The call comes after Ms Turner lost her sister Skye to a heroin overdose in March. Her family believes access to a safe injection room could have saved her life.

'For a heroin addict in Australia, your survival can be dependent on your postcode, and that is a tragedy,' Ms Turner told Daily Mail Australia.

'It would mean the world to us to be able to save the life of someone like Skye. We couldn't save her life.

Victorian journalist Laura Turner (left) and her family are calling on the Victorian Government to open a safe injecting room after her sister Skye (right) fatally overdosed on heroin in March

'She struggled with mental health issues, and we didn't know she had turned to heroin to mask those issues until it was very much too late and we can't save her, she's sadly passed away.'

Ms Turner says over the last few months, there has been a huge push in Victoria for a safe injecting room, with even the state cororner endorsing the move.

'We know emergency services want this, that many health professionals want it, residents in that area want it too and we know that the injecting room set up in Sydney has had incredible results,' Ms Turner said.

'So we're calling on the Victorian Government to follow our northern neighbours and help save lives.'

Skye had been struggling with her mental health for years, and Ms Turner explained she had spent time in and out of different facilities over that time.

The family feels they have been hugely let down by the services that should have helped Skye, but instead turned her away.

Ms Turner (pictured) said if the room had been available, her sister would have used it, and the support and access to support services at the rooms could have helped her

'There are Government services which claim to help, but you're really just constantly in a cycle of turning up somewhere, asking for help, and being turned away,' Ms Turner explained.

'You're treated like a number. It hurts. You're a tax payer, a contributor to society and the Government says it has services to help and they're not helping.

'There were a number of times my sister was discharged from hospital and just sent on her way when she clearly wasn't okay and that is really frustrating and heart breaking as someone who wants to help her.'

In the days leading up to her death, Ms Turner says Skye had threatened her life at a hospital, but was turned away from admission at the psychiatric facility and discharged.

The Channel Nine journalist describes her sister Skye as 'an incredible, intelligent, woman with a lot to offer the world'.

'She was a former state sprinter, she worked for the ABS for many years, but she was also someone who had her demons and her issues and that got the better of her later in her life,' she said.

Ms Turner said her sister had tried to seek help multiple times and had been turned away

With many perceiving injecting rooms as breeding grounds for violence and anti-social behaviour, it can be hard to rustle up public support. But Ms Turner says her sister was none of those things - she just needed a helping hand.

'Skye wasn't a criminal offender, she hasn't hurt anyone physically  she was a person struggling with mental health problems who was trying to mask that pain  a very common story,' she said.

'The thing we would like people to understand is that heroin users are not just junkies and drug users there to be bashed by society, they're someone's mother, father, sister brother  they're people's children who deserve understanding.'

Skye was afraid of needles, making it even more difficult for her family to comprehend their loss.

The Channel Nine reporter said her sister was 'an incredible, intelligent, woman with a lot to offer the world'

'We do know that she was, ironically, health conscious, and she would seek help at different times and injecting rooms don't just hand out needles.

'[The rooms] also provide support and support services for those struggling with addiction so we are certainly of the belief that she would have used one.

The Victorian branch of the Australian Medical Association has endorsed safe injecting rooms since 2012.

Following the Victorian State Coroner's report advocating for the rooms in February this year, AMA Victoria President Dr Lorraine Baker said: 'AMA Victoria supports a trial of supervised injecting facilities and has found no reason to change its position since the writing of this policy in 2012.

An injecting room in Sydney has been open for 16 years, has overseen about a million injections and never seen a death from an overdose

'Progress on this issue is regarded as of the utmost importance.'

The Victorian Government is awaiting the findings of a Parliamentary Inquiry to make a decision on the matter, but have previously rejected the idea.

The recent state budget allocated $220.1 million in alcohol and drug services including safe injection equipment and Naloxone, used to treat narcotic overdoses.

'Drug addiction is complex - no one solution can protect our community from its debilitating impacts,' Victorian Minister for Mental Health, Martin Foley, told Daily Mail Australia.

'We have a number of responses and interventions to respond to community concerns, keep people safe and provide the support people need.

'We welcome the Parliamentary Inquiry into Drug Law Reform, which has begun and await the findings of this Inquiry.'
A 16-year-old has died after being attacked by a black bear on Sunday afternoon during a race.

The unnamed Alaskan teenager was participating in the Bird Ridge Trail Race in Anchorage.

As he descended the trail, the animal chased him - before eventually reaching and mauling him.

A Chugach State Park ranger shot the bear in the face, but it ran away, leaving rangers and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game still looking for the bear as of Sunday night.

A 16-year-old runner has died after being attacked by a black bear on Sunday afternoon during the Bird Ridge Trail Race (pictured) in Anchorage, Alaska

The teen was running in the juniors' division of the Robert Spurr Memorial Hill Climb race, which takes runners up the Bird Ridge trail (pictured) north of Girdwood just off the Seward Highway

The teen was running in the juniors' division of the Robert Spurr Memorial Hill Climb race, which takes runners up the Bird Ridge trail north of Girdwood just off the Seward Highway, said race director Brad Precosky.

According to Precosky, the 16-year-old texted his brother at 12:37pm that he was being chased by a bear.

The runner had been on his way down from the turnaround point for the juniors' race, halfway up the mountain, he added.

He was found about a mile from the trailhead about 500 yards off the trail in steep, heavily wooded terrain at about a 30-degree slope.

Many details remain unclear including how the runner got off the trail and if he had been chased by the bear to the spot, reported the Alaskan Dispatch News.

'This young man didn't do anything wrong. He was just in the wrong place,' said park ranger Tom Crockett.

'You can't predict which bear is going to be predatory.'

The runner had been on his way down from the turnaround point for the juniors' race, halfway up the mountain, when he was mauled, according to race director Brad Precosky. At 12:37pm, he texted his brother that he was being chased by a bear (file image)

He was found about a mile from the trailhead about 500 yards off the trail in steep, heavily wooded terrain at about a 30-degree slope (Pictured, park rangers close off Bird Ridge trail)

This is not the first time a bear mauling has occurred in the area.

In July 2014, Alaska State Troopers got a call for help from a hiker on the Penguin Ridge trail in the Bird Creek area.

Suzanne Knudson, 59, was seriously injured after having been attacked by a bear sow with two cubs.

Knudson was jogging alone about a mile up the trailhead from a popular campground when she encountered the bears.

She suffered puncture wounds to her neck and back injuries, but her injuries are not life threatening. She wasn't carrying bear repellent, according to the troopers.
Australian tourists in Bali are unknowingly eating dog meat while holidaying on the Indonesian island, it has been claimed.

Animals Australia recently carried out an investigation into 'Bali's hidden meat trade - and its disturbing connection to Australian tourism'.

What the animal protection organisation uncovered through its investigation will be aired on the ABC's 7.30 program on Monday night.

Tourists in Bali are unknowingly eating dog meat thinking it is chicken satay sticks, it has been claimed

Animals Australia has carried out an undercover investigation into 'Bali's hidden meat trade' with claims Australian tourists are unknowingly eating dog meat (stock image in Bali)

There are claims Australian tourists have been purchasing dog meat from Bali street food vendors which they believe to be chicken satay.

'Tourists will walk down a street, they'll see a street store selling satay but what they are not realising is the letters RW on the store mean it is dog meat being served,' Animals Australia campaign director Lyn White told the ABC.

She also said: 'Poisoned meat is entering the food chain'.

New South Wales Poisons Information Centre director Dr Andrew Dawson said eating poisoned dog meat can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and may also cause organ damage.

The investigation also looked at the disturbing connection to Australian tourism from Bali's dog meat trade (stock image in Bali)

Animals Australia sent an undercover investigator to examine Bali's dog trade.

Tourists were seen asking a vendor if he had chicken satay, not dog, to which he replied he did not have dog meat, although the same vendor had earlier been seen to say he had been selling 'dog satay' to an Animals Australia investigator.

The investigator, known only as Luke, said he was also asked to join key players in the local dog trade as 'gangs stole, hunted, poisoned and killed dogs'.

Luke described what he saw as 'brutal' and heard dogs screaming and wailing as they were caught.

Horrifying video has also emerged showing dogs being shot in the street and dogs being placed into bags, before they are bound and bludgeoned to death.

In Bali, it is not illegal to eat dog meat, the ABC reported.
Doctors are warning that Australian Muslims making their spiritual pilgrimage to the Mecca are at risk of bringing rare diseases home.

An estimated 4,000 Australians who will undertake the Hajj this year will be mixing with people from nations with far poorer vaccination standards than Australia and may contract a preventable disease.

While areas with high Muslim populations, such as Auburn and Bankstown have high rates of immunisation among children, there are not the same levels for adults.

An estimated 4,000 Australians who will undertake the Hajj this year will be mixing with people from nations with poorer vaccination standards than our own and may contract a preventable disease

What is the Hajj? Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

Mecca is a city in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia.

The city is the birthplace of Muhammad and the site of his first revelation of the Quran.

More than three million Muslims travel to Mecca each year. Advertisement

Measles and the almost eradicated polio are among the most common diseases they could be exposed to in Mecca.

Australian Medical Association president Dr Michael Gannon told the Daily Telegraph immunisation programs in some Middle Eastern countries have been undermined.

There are only two or three countries in the world where polio remains a threat and according to Dr Gannon that includes Afghanisatan and Pakistan.

Australian Medical Association president Dr Michael Gannon told the Daily Telegraph immunisation programs in some Middle Eastern countries have been undermined

Dr Gannon is also worried about the variety of Muslim countries that partake in the esteemed venture and how they come from a range of Western and third-world cultures with varying degrees of health services.

'It is the perfect environment for the spread of highly infectious diseases like measles,' he said.

'What we have seen in recent years is that under-vaccinated adults visiting Indonesia and Malaysia have acquired measles from those returning from the Hajj. It's a reminder that we live in one world.'

Ideally all Australian Muslims who hope to complete the pilgrimage should be vaccinated before they make the trip from August 30 to September 4.
Greens leader Richard Di Natale and his party organised a dinner featuring a hardline Islamic preacher who opposes anti-terror laws and supports Sharia law.

Sunni preacher Sheikh Mustapha Sarakibi was a keynote speaker at Sunday night's Iftar dinner in Melbourne to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan.

Last year, the Sunni religious leader described belief in and knowledge of Sharia law as a key feature of being a Muslim and has previously signed a petition opposing proposed anti-terror laws.

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Greens leader Richard Di Natale (centre) with Sunni preacher Sheikh Mustapha Sarakibi and fellow Greens senator Janet Rice

Sheikh Mustapha Sarakibi delivered a sermon last year which said Muslims needed to understand and believe in Sharia law

'Remember that there are two things that a believer needs to hold on to firmly  two main things,' he said.

'They need to have the belief, the belief in the Shariah of Allah.

'They need to have the belief in the knowledge of it.'

Sheikh Sarakibi in 2014 signed a petition, alongside Islamist extremist group Hizb ut-Tahrir, opposing then prime minister Tony Abbott's proposed anti-terror laws.

The Abbott government had proposed making Australians returning from terror hot spots, like Iraq and Syria, declare that they had been there for a legitimate travel purpose.

Sheikh Sarakibi told a Sunni fundementalist conference in 2012 a tax on non-Muslims was fair

Sheikh Sarakibi signed a petition in August 2014 opposing Tony Abbott's anti-terror laws

Islamist extremist group Hizb ut-Tahrir also signed the petition opposing the Abbott government's terror crackdown

The Sunni sheikh from Melbourne opposed the plan to target Australians returning from terror hot spots like Iraq and Syria

'These laws clearly target Muslims and they do so unjustly,' the petition said.

'Whilst the language of the law is neutral, it is no secret that in practice these laws specifically target Muslims.'

The petition argued the prospect of 'radicalised' Muslims returning from Iraq or Syria was a 'trumped up threat'.

'There is no solid evidence to substantiate this threat. Rather, racist caricatures of Muslims as backwards, prone to violence and inherently problematic are being exploited,' it said.

Greens leader Richard Di Natale organised the Ramadan dinner in Melbourne for Muslims

In 2012, Sheikh Sarakibi was a key speaker at a conference organised by the Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaah Association, whose preachers in Sydney tell followers it is sinful to befriend non-Muslims or attend non-Islamic events like the Easter show.

Sheikh Sarakibi told the 11th Annual Islamic Dawah Conference in Melbourne a tax on non-Muslims was fair, despite the fact it was historically used in Islamic societies in the Middle East to persecute Jews and Christians.

'As we know, jizya is like a tax that is imposed upon the disbelievers under the Islamic State under Islamic law,' he said.

'So disbelievers, they pay the jizya and they get all their rights.

The Greens organised the Iftar dinner in Melbourne to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan

The Islamic Council of Victoria credited Greens leader Richard Di Natale for organising the Ramadan dinner

'So pay their jizya and they are protected by the Muslim armies.'

The Islamic Council of Victoria credited Senator Di Natale for organising the event, which he attended with his Victorian Senate colleague Janet Rice, whose marital partner is transgender.

'The show of solidarity and support shown by the Greens in the month of Ramadan for Muslims has been truly heart-warming and is greatly appreciated,' they said.

'ICV and members of the Victorian Muslim community attended the Iftar organised by Senator Richard Di Natale and the Greens at the Coburg Town Hall.'

The Greens support gay marriage, a concept which is anathema to Muslim fundamentalists who regard homosexuality as a sin.

The offence is punishable by death under Sharia law, an Islamic legal system which secular Muslims reject.
A US citizen living in Afghanistan was kidnapped on his way to work, according to Kabul police.

The American, who has not yet been identified, was driving just outside his home in Karte Char in Kabul on Sunday morning when the kidnappers stopped his car and took him hostage.

The victim worked as a consultant for the Afghan Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, which is affiliated with the World Bank.

No one is yet to claim responsibility for the kidnapping.

An American living in Afghanistan was kidnapped while on his way to work, according to Kabul police

The US government has issued warnings to those travelling to the Middle Eastern country.

'Travel to all areas of Afghanistan remains unsafe due to the ongoing risk of kidnapping, hostage taking, military combat operations, landmines, banditry, armed rivalry between political and tribal groups,' the alert on the US government's page reads.

'Extremists associated with various Taliban networks, ISIS, and members of other armed opposition groups are active throughout the country.

'ISIS has demonstrated its operational capability, having attacked both Afghan and foreign government facilities.'

The government has ban unofficial travel to the Afghanistan and requires American visitors to the country to restrict their movements to the US embassy and other American government facilities.

Just last month kidnappers raided a guest house in Kabul, kidnapped a Finnish woman, and killed a German woman and an Afghan security guard.

Two professors, an American and Australian, were kidnapped in Kabul last August.

Three months later, a Spanish NGO worker and an Australian were also taken hostage.
Disgraced ex-union boss Kathy Jackson was told off by a Melbourne magistrate for trying to leave court to go to the toilet as lawyers wrestled with amending the scores of theft and fraud charges against her.

Jackson, accused of using the Health Services Union's dime to bankroll a luxury lifestyle, is facing 164 charges.

As prosecutor Deborah Mandie, defence counsel Philip Beazley and magistrate Charlie Rozencwajg worked through amending more than 50 of her original 70 charges, Jackson got up to leave the court.

Disgraced ex-union boss Kathy Jackson was told off by a Melbourne magistrate for trying to leave court to go to the toilet

'I don't think you can just leave the court, Ms Jackson,' Mr Rozencwajg said on Monday.

The one-time whistleblower mouthed to the magistrate that she needed to use the loo.

'Well, get your counsel to ask ... OK, you can go,' Mr Rozencwajg said.

During Monday's hearing, prosecutors filed an additional 94 fraud charges against Jackson.

She still faces 18 theft charges, including an accusation of stealing $50,000.

Many of the new charges are alternatives in case the greater charges fail.

All 164 charges relate to 70 allegations of misrepresenting $500,000 worth of personal expenses as union costs.

Court documents show Jackson is accused of using union credit cards to pay for international flights and luxury hotels, including stays in Hong Kong, Las Vegas and New York.

The Former Health Services Union boss is facing 164 charges

As prosecutor Deborah Mandie, defence counsel Philip Beazley and magistrate Charlie Rozencwajg worked through amending more than 50 of her original 70 charges, Jackson got up to leave the court

She is also accused of improperly spending at a treadmill outlet, a high-end auction house and a furniture store.

Mr Beazley asked for a variation on Jackson's bail so he could contact witnesses before a committal hearing in November.

The variation was granted.

Mr Rozencwajg also warned Mr Beazley that he could only cross-examine witnesses on the exact issues and he did not appreciate the bundling of witnesses into groups, such as 'witnesses with a hatred of Ms Jackson'.

'This is not a royal commission so you're not going to be able to go far and wide,' Mr Rozencwajg said.

The matter will return to court on August 4 for a further committal mention.

Jackson, who lives in NSW, is not required to attend the August hearing.

The Melbourne Magistrates Court, pictured

The woman wanted to use the bathroom but tried to leave the court room without asking
A baby boy has been given free airline tickets for life after his mother gave birth on a flight from Saudi Arabia to India.

Jose Cicymol went into labour aboard Jet Airways Flight 9W 569 from King Fahd Airport, near Dammam, which took off for Kochi at around 2.55am on Sunday.

At 8am the flight declared a medical emergency after Ms Cicymol, who was 30 weeks pregnant, went into premature labour.

Jose Cicymol gave birth on a Jet Airways flight from Saudi Arabia to India on Sunday and her baby boy has been given free tickets for life (file image)

The plane was diverted to Mumbai but crew soon realised they would not make it in time and appealed for a doctor to come forward.

Fellow passenger and nurse Mini Wilson offered to help, and the boy was born at 8.45am at 35,000ft, the Times of India reports.

The plane touched down at 9.12am and mother and baby were taken to nearby Holy Spirit Hospital, where they are reported to be doing well.

The airline said this is the first time a birth has taken place on one of their aircraft, and they will be offering the child free flights for life.

A Jet Airways statement said: 'We are pleased to announce the successful birth of a baby boy on board flight 9W 569 from Dammam to Cochin of June 18, 2017.

'The Boeing 737 with 162 guests was diverted to Mumbai as one of the guests went into premature labour.

Flight 9W 569 from King Fahd Airport to Kochi was diverted to Mumbai (pictured) around 8am after Ms Cicymol went into labour, before she gave birth at 35,000ft around 8.45am

'The guest delivered a baby boy at 35,000 feet. On landing, both mother and baby were rushed to Holy Spirit Hospital in Mumbai and are doing well.

'Jet Airways has informed the family of the guest who are en route from Kochi. The airline expresses its gratitude to Ms Wilson, the on-board paramedic for her guidance.'

After mother and baby were taken to hospital the flight continued to Kochi and arrived at 12.45pm, around two and a half hours behind schedule.

The Jet Airways website says women up to 38 weeks pregnant are allowed to travel on aircraft, with restrictions.

Women who are between 33 and 36 weeks pregnant require a medical certificate from their doctor, and women who are between 36 and 38 weeks must be accompanied by a doctor.

Women who are more than 38 weeks pregnant, are carrying multiple children or have known medical complications, are not allowed to fly.
Water ski racing authorities should consider capping speeds after the 'tragic death' of a champion observer and father-of-four, a coroner said.

Ian Baker, 44, died in 2014 after his superclass boat flipped while travelling at 187km/h on New South Wales' Hawkesbury River during a qualification event for the Bridge to Bridge Ski Race.

Deputy State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan told the Glebe Coroner's Court calls for a speed limit from the sport's participants had been a 'striking feature' of the inquest.

Water ski racing authorities should consider capping speeds after the 'tragic death' of a champion observer and father-of-four, a coroner said

Deputy State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan told the Glebe Coroner's Court calls for a speed limit from the sport's participants had been a 'striking feature' of the inquest

Ian Baker, 44, died in 2014 after his superclass boat flipped while travelling at 187km/h on New South Wales' Hawkesbury River during a qualification event for the Bridge to Bridge Ski Race

She recommended Ski Racing Australia consider possible speed restrictions in the unlimited and super-class categories and that Roads and Maritime Service look at whether speed limits should be part of aquatic licences for the Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic.

'Speed contributed to Ian's death,' Ms O'Sullivan said in written findings on Monday.

'The boat could not have become hydro-dynamically unstable, whether as a result of speed alone or impact with an object, unless it was travelling at an excessive speed.'

During the inquest, Daniel McMahon said the crash that killed his good friend was so violent and rapid that he thought he had fallen through the bottom of the boat.

He, other crew members and an expert believed the vessel had hit something in the water.

But marine investigator Nayland Aldridge told the inquest the crash could have happened when the bow entered the water and propeller torque took control at high speed.

During the inquest, Daniel McMahon said the crash that killed his good friend was so violent and rapid that he thought he had fallen through the bottom of the boat

Marine investigator Nayland Aldridge told the inquest the crash could have happened when the bow entered the water and propeller torque took control at high speed

'I am not able to prefer one expert witness over the other as each opinion was equally plausible,' Ms O'Sullivan said.

'Accordingly, I cannot find, on the balance of probabilities, what caused The Ringmaster to lose control and crash.'

Mr Baker's death came a year after a fatal Bridge to Bridge crash involving champion skier Sarah Teelow in 2013.

Among Ms O'Sullivan's other recommendations, was that Ski Racing Australia consider requiring all vessels to carry spinal boards, defibrillators and neck braces.

Water ski racing authorities should consider capping speeds after the 'tragic death' of a champion observer and father-of-four, a coroner said

Ian Baker, 44, died in 2014 after his superclass boat flipped while travelling at 187km/h on New South Wales' Hawkesbury River during a qualification event for the Bridge to Bridge Ski Race

Mr Baker's wife, Joanne, did not speak to reporters as she left the court on Monday. 'Ski racing was one of Ian's passions and tragically it took him from us,' she said in words read out by Ms O'Sullivan

She also said the authority should look at whether a net or cage could be used to collect debris beneath the water.

Mr Baker's wife, Joanne, did not speak to reporters as she left the court on Monday.

'Ski racing was one of Ian's passions and tragically it took him from us,' she said in words read out by Ms O'Sullivan.

'However his biggest passion was his family.'
Theresa May today condemned the 'sickening' Finsbury Park terror attack and vowed to 'drive out this evil' after she met faith leaders inside the local mosque in the aftermath of the atrocity.

The Prime Minister travelled to north London shortly after addressing the nation after Britain suffered its fourth terror attack in just four months.

She was quickly whisked to Finsbury Park Mosque to meet with Imam Mahmoud and community leaders this afternoon after she faced fierce criticism for her slow response to the Grenfell Tower disaster last week.

The PM said the incident is 'every bit as sickening' as the recent atrocities in London and Manchester.

After meeting faith leaders at the mosque, she said: 'The terrible terrorist attack which took place last night was an evil borne out of hatred and it has devastated a community.

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Theresa May, pictured today alongside Met Police Commissioner Cressida Dick, spoke with faith leaders at Finsbury Park Mosque following last night's terror attack

Theresa May (second left) and Met Commissioner Cressida Dick (centre) met with local faith leaders including Mohammed Kozbar (left) a, chair of the mosque, Rabbi Herschel Gluck, president of Shomrim in Stamford Hill (right) with Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House (second right) at Finsbury Park Mosque today

Theresa May visited the Finsbury Park Mosque this afternoon after condemning a terrorist attack on Muslims there as 'every bit as sickening' as other assaults on Britain

Mrs May also acknowledged that this morning's attack - which police believe was carried out by a lone wolf - falls at a 'difficult time' for London

'I am pleased to have been here today to see the strength of that community coming together, all faiths united in one desire to see extremism and hatred of all sorts driven out of our society.

'There is no place for this hatred in our country today and we need to work together as one society, one community, to drive it out, this evil which is affecting so many families.'

Grenfell victims to be rehomed in borough Theresa May today received fresh assurances that victims of the Grenfell Tower fire will be re-homed within the same or neighbouring borough. Number 10 said they were told reports those who lost their homes in the fatal blaze would have to move hundreds of miles away to cities scattered across Britain if they wanted to keep a roof over their head were false. And they said that by the end of the day the government will have the final figures for the number of tower blocks across the UK which will be subject to extra fire checks in the wake of the disaster. The update came this evening after Mrs may chaired the third meeting Grenfell Tower Recovery Taskforce. Number 10 said the Lord Chief Justice is expected to appoint a judge to oversee the independent Inquiry in the next couple of days, and the PM reiterated her commitment that residents would be consulted on the terms of reference for the inquiry before they are finalised. Mrs May will receive daily reports on what is being done to help and support those who were left homeless and lost relatives in the fire. It comes after victims and locals living near the north Kensington tower block reacted with fury to the governments flat-footed response to the crisis. Advertisement

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn - who represents the area as Islington North MP - was in the mosque at the same time but it is not clear whether the politicians were in the same meeting.

But despite rushing to the mosque quickly following the attack, Mrs May was heckled as she left it.

A man was heard shouting: 'Mrs May, why are you so quick today? Prime Minister, have you got a faster taxi?'

Mrs May's response was in stark contrast to her leaden reaction to the Grenfell fire disaster which forced her to apologise on Saturday.

The Premier was given a deeply hostile reception at a visit to Kensington on Friday and had to be evacuated at speed from a church by her police officers.

Speaking on the steps of Number 10 on another bloody day for the capital, the Prime Minister described the incident as 'an attack on British Muslims' which sought to destroy one of the country's 'fundamental freedoms'.

In her Downing Street speech, Mrs May also acknowledged that this morning's attack - which police believe was carried out by a lone wolf - falls at a 'difficult time' for London, in the wake of the London Bridge terror attack and the 'unimaginable' Grenfell Tower tragedy.

But she hailed London as an 'extraordinary city of extraordinary people' which was 'determined never to give in to hate'.

Mrs May's address to the nation came after she issued her first response to the attack before 4am - less than four hours after the incident took place.

Her speech came as Jeremy Corbyn visited the scene of the attack - which is close to his home in his north London constituency - where he was overcome with emotion as he talked to residents.

Theresa May has condemned the Finsbury Park terror attack as 'every bit as sickening' as the other incidents which have rocked Britain in recent months

Mrs May addressed the nation in the aftermath of a terror attack for the fourth time in as many months as she admitted London was going through a 'difficult' period

Mrs May said: 'This attack targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their ordinary lives, this time British Muslims as they left a mosque after breaking their fast at this sacred time of year.

'This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism in whatever form it shares the same fundamental goal - it seeks to drive us apart and break the the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country.

'At the heart of that bond is a belief in the fundamental freedoms and liberties we all cherish - freedom of speech, the freedom to live how we choose and - yes - the freedom to practice religion in peace

'We will not let this happen. It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible.'

Jeremy Corbyn arrived at the scene today (pictured) to comfort his constituents. Mr Corbyn, who is MP for the area, is due at a prayer service later

The Labour leader wept as he comforted constituents on his home patch today just hours after the terrorist attack near Finsbury Park mosque

Mrs May then referred to the other horrors which have taken place in London over recent weeks, describing how Londoners had shown 'resolve' through the adversity.

'Today's attack falls at a difficult time in the life of this city following on from London Bridge two weeks ago and of course the unimaginable tragedy of Grenfell Tower this week,' she continued.

'But what we have seen throughout - whether in the heroism of the ordinary citizens who fought off the attackers at London Bridge, the unbreakable resolve of the residents in Kensington, or, this morning, the spirit of the community who apprehended the attacker, is that this is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people.

'It is home to a multitude of communities that together make London one of the greatest cities on earth - diverse, welcoming, vibrant, compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate.

'There are the values that define this city.'

Mrs May added that extra police resources had already been deployed to 'reassure communities' while police would continue to assess the security needs of mosques 'and provide any additional resources where needed'.

The Prime Minister - who made the statement after chairing a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra meeting - added that police believed the suspect was acting alone when he mowed down the group of Muslims close to the mosque.

Mr Corbyn said he was horrified by the 'cruel' attack in his constituency, which saw a white man drive at a group of Muslims giving first aid to an ill man

The Islington North MP said he was already working with community leaders at Muslim Welfare House in response to the attack

Chairman of City Sikhs and co-chair of Faiths Forum London, Jasvir Singh, was in the room with Theresa May at the mosque.

He told MailOnline: 'She was mainly reassuring us that all will be done to protect the community.

'She sat and listened to the concerns of the different faith groups. She did a lot of listening and it was great that she came.'

Mr Corbyn, who lives close to the scene, said he became aware of the incident very quickly as police responded early on Monday.'

One man died and 10 people were injured after the driver of a white van ploughed into worshippers outside the Muslim Welfare House, near the Finsbury Park Mosque in north London.

The Leader of the Opposition praised the emergency services for their 'very quick and very timely' response after the driver was arrested at the scene.

Asked if the suspected terrorist attack was being treated as seriously as others, he told BBC News on Monday: 'I'm treating it absolutely as seriously as any other attack.

'This was a van driven into a crowd of people who were tending a man who was already injured and they were coming home from night-time prayers in the mosque.

'It's Ramadan and it's perfectly normal, and eight people have been injured, some of them I understand extremely seriously, and, as I see it, this is a terror on the streets and it's a terror of the people on the streets, in the communities I'm very proud to represent in Parliament, and that's why I'm here today.'

One person has been killed and ten others injured after someone drove a van at Muslim worshippers outside Finsbury Park mosque. Forensic officers were combing the scene today (pictured)

Forensic officers in blue overalls were at the scene of the terror attack this morning, where they pitched a forensics tent as they combed the area for clues

The Prime Minister was slammed last week for taking too long to meet victims of the Grenfell Tower fire, meeting only emergency service staff on the first day.

While she has since met victims of the disaster and apologised for the response of public officials on the ground, the row was another damaging blow to her authority after the disastrous election.

This morning, Home Secretary Ms Rudd told Sky News that the incident was being treated as terror.

She said: 'We have again woken up to another terrible incident in London where a man has taken hold of a van and driven it into a group of innocent people.

'There was one fatality we know about and a number of casualties.

'The police are treating it as a terrorist incident.'

Arrest: This is the moment the Finsbury Park terror suspect was cuffed after being hauled to the ground and pinned down by worshippers who kept him being attacked before the police arrived

Footage shows the alleged driver of the van being arrested at the scene and bundled into a police van - he screamed 'kill me' in the hope witnesses to his Islamophobic attack would seek retribution

After the attack the man was reportedly tackled by civilians, and a crowd of angry bystanders gave him to police

Uniformed police officers stood guard after the terror attack in Finsbury Park which happened late last night

Ms Rudd said there was not yet any information about the attacker but said the police operation would move at high speed in the coming hours.

Asked why it took so many hours to declare it as terrorism, she said: 'We know the police were on hand immediately.

'We know they have treated it immediately as a suspected terrorist event.

'That is the normal procedure.'

Ms Rudd said the Government remained committed to ensuring the safety of everyone.

The Home Secretary outlined existing policies and grants available to protect places of worship.

She said: 'Londoners have been hit by a series of attacks and have been nothing short of heroic.'

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who represents the Finsbury Park area as an MP, has announced he will attend prayers at the mosque later

London Mayor Sadiq Khan urged people to 'remain calm and vigilant'.

He said: 'We don't yet know the full details, but this was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

'While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

'The situation is still unfolding and I urge all Londoners to remain calm and vigilant. Please report anything suspicious to the police, but only call 999 in an emergency.

'The Met have deployed extra police to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan.'

A 48-year-old man has been arrested after the van, which was hired from south Wales, mounted the pavement and veered into a congregation outside the Muslim Welfare House, near Finsbury Park Mosque, shortly after they finished Ramadan evening prayers.

Heroic bystanders wrestled the suspect, who was clean-shaven with curly hair and wore a white t-shirt, to the floor and pinned him down until officers arrived, at around 12.20am.
An Englishman who went to extraordinary lengths to live a double life in Australia before he was found dead in a Sydney unit in 2014 has been identified by a coroner as John Pritchard.

The man's former boyfriend found his body in a Manly unit but when authorities attempted to identify him, it soon became apparent many aspects of his life didn't stack up.

Mr Pritchard went by the name Paul Lachlan while in Australia and NSW Deputy State Coroner Harriet Grahame on Monday described him as 'somewhat mysterious' and 'ultimately quite unknowable, even to those closest to him'.

John Pritchard (pictured) went by the name Paul Lachlan while he was living in Australia

Throughout a 17-year relationship, his ex-partner, who can't be named for legal reasons, never saw official mail, a driver's licence, Medicare card, tax file number or passport.

Mr Pritchard paid for everything in cash and revealed minimal details about his background.

Police searched fingerprint databases, checked the electoral roll, spoke with the Immigration Department and contacted the British consulate and air force - all without success.

It wasn't until the man's niece in the UK recognised his photographs that police made major progress.

Mr Pritchard paid for everything in cash and revealed minimal details about his background

One relative who lost contact in 2002 said she never considered filing a missing person report.

'As far as I was concerned, he was not missing. I knew he was living a very happy life in the country he wanted to live in,' she said.

Australia's Department of Immigration confirmed a man by the name of John Pritchard with the same date of birth entered Australia in 1996 and DNA comparisons with relatives showed 'moderately strong' matches.

Police found flatmates from his former Surry Hills address who recalled changing the locks after Mr Pritchard was accused of stealing rent money, a computer and CDs in 1997.

Police found flatmates from Mr Pritchard's former Surry Hills address who recalled changing the locks after Mr Pritchard was accused of stealing rent money, a computer and CDs in 1997

He started using the name Paul Lachlan around the same time but 'provided sketchy and sometimes conflicting versions of his past' while living in Australia illegally.

A friend who volunteered with Mr Pritchard at Lifeline was once told his parents did not accept his sexuality, the coroner's report states.

'That may have been part of the reason for the distance he had from his family,' Ms Grahame said.

'I have no way now of knowing if that is true.'

Mr Pritchard was found dead in a Manly (pictured) unit by his then boyfriend in 2014

The coroner said Mr Pritchard was initially an uplifting, caring and loving person but became 'a somewhat troubled young man'.

She offered condolences to Mr Pritchard's former partner and family and agreed to suppress details of his cause of death.

'While they had not been in contact for years, I understand their shock and loss is nevertheless significant,' Ms Grahame said.
A hero Imam has described how he prevented a mob attack on the Finsbury Park terror suspect just moments after Muslim worshippers were mown down outside a mosque.

Muslim leader Mohammed Mahmoud stepped in when an angry crowd attempted to 'kick and punch' Darren Osborne as he was being restrained by three men following the suspected terror attack.

Moments earlier, a white van had ploughed into a group of people outside the Muslim Welfare House in north London as they left evening prayers.

Mohammed Mahmoud has described how he prevented a mob attack on the Finsbury Park terror suspect just moments after he mowed down Muslim worshippers outside a mosque

Eight were seriously injured and one man, 52-year-old Makram Ali, has since died. Police arrested Osborne, 47, on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder.

Describing what happened, Mr Mahmoud said he and a 'group of brothers' had managed to 'extinguish any flames of mob rule' as members of the public attempted to hurt the alleged terrorist 'from every angle'.

He added that, despite tensions running high, the father-of-four - who is white - had come away 'unscathed' and remained 'calm and silent' as he was arrested by officers.

He told the BBC: 'By God's grace we managed to surround him and to protect him from any harm.

'We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him that were coming from every angle.'

Scotland Yard has praised the 'restraint' of the crowds who restrained and then protected the terror suspect before the police arrived to arrest him

Footage shows Darren Osborn being arrested at the scene and bundled into a police van - he screamed 'kill me' in the hope witnesses to his Islamophobic attack would seek retribution

Mr Mahmoud said that, while the chaos unfolded, a police car drove past which he and some others managed to flag down.

'We told them the situation,' he continued. 'We said "he is restrained, he mowed people down with a van, there is a mob attempting to hurt him, if you don't take him God forbid he might be seriously hurt.

Mr Mahmoud said that, while the chaos unfolded, a police car drove past which he and some others managed to flag down

'We pushed people away from him until he was safely taken by police into custody and put in the back of the van.

'It wasn't me alone - there was a group of brothers who were calm and collected and managed to calm people down and to extinguish any flames of anger or mob rule that would've taken charge had this group of mature brothers not stepped in.'

Police confirmed that one person - later named as Mr Ali, who was being helped by a group of people after collapsing outside the mosque - has died. Officers are still investigating whether his death is linked to the terror attack.

But, yesterday, Mr Mahmoud described how the man had 'regained consciousness' moments before the van ploughed into the road.

He also revealed that the deceased's brother was treated for injuries at the scene.

He said: 'The van drove perpendicular to Seven Sisters road. It drove at a 90 degree angle to the direction of the road - it was enough to make some people fly off under the side.

'It dragged two people underneath him - one they were worried might be paralysed because he could not feel his arms and legs.'

Earlier, the imam was hailed as the 'hero of the day' by Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, for calming the angry crowd.

Scotland Yard has since praised the 'restraint' of the crowds who protected the alleged killer before the police arrived to arrest him.

Witnesses described how he told them: 'Don't hit him - you do not touch him - hand him into the police'. At the time, the suspect was allegedly shouting: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit' before telling crowds: 'Kill me, kill me'.

This is the moment Finsbury Park Imam Mohammed Mahmoud (pictured centre in white) held down the man accused of launching a terror attack

The group of men pinned Osborne down and urged irate witnesses not to hurt him

The suspect is believed to have used this van rented in Wales as a weapon to try to kill and maim Finsbury Park worshippers

As he spoke to cameras, the imam added the community was staying calm in the wake of the attack.

'This community of ours is mild mannered and a calm community, not known for our violence. Our mosques are incredibly peaceful,' he said.

'We will do our utmost to calm down any tensions. But, immediately after the incident, people were calm, people were praying for the victims of the attack and everybody knew there was nothing they could do but pray for them.'

He added that it had been a 'tragic and barbaric attack' while proved that the 'demonisation' of the Muslim community was 'succeeding'.

'To hear him say "I did my bit" may be proof that this demonisation of the Muslim community by those who wish to divide this city have succeeded to some extent in influencing the vulnerable to think we must be eliminated,' he said.

'We just hope that in times of tragedy people come together and unite.'

Adil Rana, 24, who was outside the mosque when the van drove towards the crowd, saw blood and 'people dead on the floor' in the aftermath.

He told the Press Association: 'The van was driving towards us to try and basically hit us at speed and everyone was shocked and people were screaming. There were people on the floor.'

Mr Rana, from Walthamstow, said the driver was held on the ground by some of the crowd after getting out the vehicle.

He said: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu praised the restraint shown by those who held him down

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Mr Rana said the driver gestured and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police.

He added: 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again'.'

Eyewitness Abdul Rahman told the BBC the white van driver clearly said he wanted to 'kill all Muslims'.

Mr Rahman, hit him and then helped pin him down.

He said: 'When the guy came out from his van he wanted to escape, run away and he was saying: 'I want to kill Muslims. I want to kill Muslims'.

'I hit him on his stomach and then me and the other guys, we held him to the ground until he couldn't move. We stopped him until the police came.'

Eyewitness Hussain Ali, 28, said that, while being restrained, Osborne was protected by the people he is thought to have been targeting.

He said: 'The leader of the mosque said 'You do not touch him'. He was sitting and holding him like that, people kept holding him.

'All the police and helicopters came after around eight minutes.'

Mr Ali described the horrifying scene unfolding outside the Islamic centre in north London early on Monday morning.

'All I heard was a banging, then I turned and saw all the shouting and running.

'I saw people taking a man from underneath the van, he was black, bleeding, he was not dead, he was alive.

'There was a man in a wheelchair, a man underneath the van, it was hell.

'People who were inside saw the attacker was smiling, he was waving, he was happy.

'It was panic, people were shouting, screaming, some saying it was an accident. It was panic, it was horror.'

The injured are carried from the scene by police and paramedics - one is dead and ten are injured

Osborne, the suspect arrested at the scene, smiled, waved and blew kisses after his arrest in an attempt to rile crowds, it has been claimed

This is the moment Osborne was filmed blowing a kiss minutes after he mowed down a crowd and said: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'

Scotland Yard has today thanked them for detaining him.

Mr Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, added that the local community was 'horrified' by the incident and appealed for calm.

He also thanked Mr Mahmoud 'whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life'.

'We have worked very hard over decades to build a peaceful and tolerant community here in Finsbury Park and we totally condemn any act of hate that tries to drive our wonderful community apart,' Mr Kacimi said.

'We would appeal for calm at this time. It is unhelpful for there to be speculation about the incident. All of our efforts should be towards getting justice for the victims and ensuring our community stays the diverse, tolerant and welcome place we know it to be.'

He added: 'An old man has passed away, what for? What did he do? He was just coming out of prayers, a nice gentleman going home after prayers and he is hit and killed by a car - what did he do? Why? Why?

'The guy, he came out and said 'You deserve, I did my bit, you deserve it' and he was shouting and screaming abusive language - what for? What did he do, this man? He is an innocent man'.

One man died following the attack. A tent is placed over the spot where he was ran down - police are trying to investigate if he died as a result of the attack

Mr Kacimi said the Muslim Welfare House had met with police, the council and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who is MP for Islington North, in the wake of the incident.

He added: 'I would like to particularly thank our Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life.'

Police have paid tribute to the men who held him down after the attack on a group of worshippers near a mosque by a man in a white van.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: 'This is being treated as a terrorist attack.'

He added: 'I would like to thank those people who helped police in detaining the man and worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him into our custody.

'Their restraint in the circumstances was commendable'.
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David Davis nailed his colours to the mast yesterday on the first day of Brexit negotiations as he insisted the UK needed to regain control of its borders.

And he declared that Britain would leave the single market and customs union  effectively killing off speculation that his team would opt for a softer stance.

However, the Brexit Secretary, who is leading the British negotiations, was forced to make a significant concession, agreeing to side-line talks on a trade deal.

In an aggressive opening salvo, the EUs chief negotiator Michel Barnier told Britain that talks on trade would only begin when progress had been made on the size of Britains divorce bill and over an agreement to guarantee the rights of its citizens.

David Davis and Michel Barnier, pictured today at the press conference in Brussels, both struck an optimistic tone and said they will work together to come up with a deal which suits both parties

Mr Davis and Mr Barnier, pictured in Brussels today, agreed to set up technical working groups to look at the major questions of Brexit - including citizens' rights, the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic, and the divorce bill. Britain has effectively signed up to the EU's demand to deal with its departure from the bloc before a new trade deal is discussed

The UK had wanted the talks to happen simultaneously.

Mr Barnier also warned that any demands drawn up by Theresa May would be ignored and insisted that the decision to leave the single market would have serious consequences.

Mr Davis bowed to the pressure to put talks over a trade deal on hold, but insisted that a deal was achievable within the window for talks.

He declared the start of negotiations as positive but rejected suggestions that  following Theresa Mays surprisingly poor electoral performance  the UK might drop its hard-line Brexit plan.

He insisted the position hasnt changed, adding: We need back control of our borders, we will leave the single market and the customs union.

Appearing in Brussels a year after the UKs decision to leave the bloc, the Brexit secretary echoed Winston Churchill by saying the optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.

Despite his positive assessment, Mr Davis faced embarrassment when the EU said it would decide when trade talks could begin.

He had previously insisted that the UK would reject the timetable drawn up by Brussels in what would he promised would be the row of the summer. But Mr Barnier said he and the EUs remaining 27 members would only allow the talks when the UK made sufficient progress on the terms of its divorce bill and on citizens rights. In a sign of the bruising clashes ahead, Mr Barnier signalled that would refuse any package that does not meet the hard-line demands already set out by the bloc.

I am not in a frame of mind to make concessions, or ask for concessions, he said. Its not about punishment, it is not about revenge. Basically, we are implementing the decision taken by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, and unravel 43 years of patiently-built relations.

After negotiators from both sides met for talks lasting seven hours, the former French commissioner appeared frustrated as he promised to put emotion to one side.

The United Kingdom is going to leave the European Union, single market and the customs union, not the other way around, he added. So, we each have to assume our responsibility and the consequences of our decisions. And the consequences are substantial.

The former French commissioner also mirrored his counterparts reference to Churchill by quoting one of the European Unions founding fathers, Jean Monnet.

Im neither optimistic nor pessimistic, Im determined, he said.

Despite his approach, Mr Barnier insisted that he did not harbour any hostility towards Mr Davis who he first met while they both worked as Europe ministers during the 1990s.

David Davis (pictured arriving in Brussels today) said there is 'more than unites us than divides us' ahead of the first round of official Brexit talks with EU negotiator Michel Barnier

Mr Davis (centre) was joined by his key aides at the talks today, including Britain's EU ambassador Sir Tim Barrow (left) and permanent secretary Olly Robbins (right)

A fair deal is possible and far better than no deal, he added. That is what I said to David today. Thats why we will work all the time with the UK and never against the UK.

'I will display a constructive attitude firmly based on the interests and support of the 27.'

Mr Davis acknowledged the immediate difficulties in negotiations, adding: Its not how it starts, its how it finishes.

Before the start of yesterdays seven-hour negotiating period, Mr Davis told both teams that they were starting a journey no doubt with plenty of twists and turns.

But the Tory minister, who has been rumoured as a possible Conservative Party leader, said the UK will seek a clear relationship on trade and security and that the destination is clear.

The UKs concession on trade talks came after Mr Barnier piled on the pressure at the opening of talks yesterday by insisting that the UK must accept divorce terms before talks begin.

The EUs chief negotiator said he would brief EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on Thursday that the UK was willing to accept the demand.

Mr Daviss team yesterday tried to silence accusations from Brussels that it was under-prepared, by announcing a significant offer on the thorny citizens rights issue.

BARNIER AND DAVIS EXCHANGE HIKING GIFTS AT START OF BREXIT TALKS David Davis and Michel Barnier today appeared to acknowledge they have a mountain to climb in Brexit talks - by giving each other hiking-related gifts. In an exchange to mark the formal start of the negotiations on the UK's withdrawal from the EU, the Brexit Secretary gave Brussels' chief negotiator a rare book on mountaineering. Mr Barnier, who prepared for the negotiations by spending the weekend in the French Alps, presented Mr Davis with a hiking stick. A UK source said: 'Both gifts reflected their shared love of climbing and mountaineering.' Advertisement

Mrs May will present the proposal to follow EU leaders during the summit this week before the proposal is issued on Monday.

The move is expected to offer guarantees that the 1.3million EU citizens living in the UK will have access to healthcare and education as their citizenship status is guaranteed.

But the move is likely to fall short of the EUs uncompromising demands, which insist that the European Court of Justice should oversee the rights.

It also emerged that what will happen to Northern Irelands border with the south has become a hugely contentious issue.

Mr Barnier vowed the EU would never work against the interests of the UK as he said a fair Brexit deal was within reach.

The EU's chief negotiator said the talks had begun on the 'right foot' after his first official encounter with Brexit Secretary David Davis - although he warned the 'clock is ticking'.

Britain has effectively accepted the EU's demand to sort out the divorce before broaching a future trade deal - despite Mr Davis previously predicting it would be 'row of the summer'.

Brussels could repay the concession later this year by declaring sufficient progress has been made on agreeing a bill for Britain's outstanding liabilities, a deal on citizens' rights and the Irish border.

Mr Barnier added: 'We have to commit ourselves now mutually to guarantee rights to citizens on either side of the Channel so they can continue their lives as in the past.

'We have to clear the accounts and we have to honour our mutual financial commitments.

'We also have to find solutions to maintaining all the commitments of the Good Friday Agreement.

Britain's Brexit negotiating team, lead by Brexit Secretary David Davis, met with the EU negotiation team led by Michel Barnier, in Brussels today for the beginning of formal negotiations to leave the European Union

'It is by lifting uncertainties around these issues that we will lay the foundation and create the climate of trust which will enable us to build a new partnership.'

But Mr Davis denied he had caved in to pressure from Brussels in signing up to their timetable and that this showed Britain's 'weakness.

He said: 'It's not when it starts it's how it finishes that matters,' he said.

'The UK has been crystal clear in our approach to the negotiations, the withdrawal process cannot be concluded without the future relationship also being taken into account.

BREXIT TALKS DAY ONE: WHAT'S ON THE AGENDA? First on the agenda are the key issues of the divorce - Britain's outstanding bills, reciprocal rights for citizens and the Irish border. Each issue presents challenges - but only once they are are resolved is the EU prepared to tackle trade talks. Resolving whether Britain will have to face tariffs for sending goods into the EU single market will be a huge stumbling block. And experts fear huge customs delays if Britain refuses to abide by EU laws - and EU judges - on shared standards for goods. Advertisement

'They should be agreed alongside each other, this is completely consistent with the Council's guidelines which state nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.'

Mr Davis also old the press conference that talks had got off to a 'promising start'.

He said: 'Today marks the start of a journey, for the United Kingdom and for the European Union.

'There is a long way to go, but we are off to a promising start. We have taken the first, critical steps together.'

'Now, we have a shared responsibility to deliver quick and substantive progress.'

The Brexit Secretary said striking new, free trade deals around the world is one of the major upsides of Brexit for Britain.

The first round of talks will set the agenda for the next 18 months as Britain and Europe wrestle with the future.

The clock is ticking as the deal to unravel 45 years of British membership must be done by March 29, 2019, under EU treaty rules.

On arrival, Mr Davis said: 'We are starting this negotiation in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends for the future.'

The chief negotiators swapped gifts to mark the start of talks. Mr Davis received a walking cane while he gave a first edition book about hiking in return

Mr Barnier said that the purpose of the talks was to deliver an 'orderly withdrawal of the UK from the EU'.

'Our objective is clear,' he added.

'We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, first for citizens but also for the beneficiaries of EU policies and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland.'

He said he hoped that during their single day of talks, he and Mr Davis would be able to identify priorities and a timetable for the ongoing negotiations, so that he can report back to leaders of the other 27 EU states at the European Council summit in Brussels on Thursday.

NEW FACE OF TORY EUROSCEPTICS A 37-year-old former barrister was last night elected as the shop steward of Tory Eurosceptic MPs. Suella Fernandes becomes the chairman of the European Research Group, the main Leave group in Parliament. The MP for Fareham pledged her determination to make Britain a fully sovereign trading nation again. She replaces Wycombe MP Steve Baker who was appointed a minister in the Brexit department last week. Miss Fernandes, the daughter of a Kenyan father and Mauritian mother, is a former barrister and chairman of the Cambridge University Conservative Association. She said: The next two years will be crucial in the transition of the UK into a fully sovereign trading nation. I dont believe in a hard Brexit or a soft Brexit; I am passionate about a pro-business and jobs-led Brexit which will increase our countrys prosperity. She grew up in Wembley and entered the Commons in 2015. Advertisement

Mr Davis - who earlier said that he was hoping to negotiate a 'deal like no other in history' - said that the UK was looking for 'a new, deep and special partnership with the EU'.

He added: 'It is at testing times like these that we are reminded of the values and the resolve that we share with our closest allies in Europe.

'There is more that unites us than divides us.

'While there will undoubtedly be challenging times ahead of us in the negotiations we will do all that we can to ensure that we deliver a deal that works in the best interests of all citizens.'

The EU is insisting that Britain must settle its divorce bill and the terms of its departure before negotiations on a new trading arrangement can begin.

But Britain wants the two issues to be negotiated in parallel, with Mr Davis earlier this year warning that it would be the 'row of the summer'.

Officials have made clear that the Government still wants to negotiate its future trade relationship with the EU alongside talks on the terms for Brexit.

Earlier today, Boris Johnson hailed the opportunities of Brexit.

The Foreign Secretary, who was the leading light of the Brexit campaign, said there was 'goodwill' for a deal that gave 'honour and profit' to both sides.

He said Britain would become the 'agent and agitator' for world trade for the first time in decades once the deal was done.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove, another leader of the Brexit battle, also talked up the prospects of a deal today by suggesting food prices could fall.

Chancellor Philip Hammond warned yesterday the failure to strike a deal would be a 'bad outcome' for Britain - but insisted that was still better than a bad deal imposed by Brussels.

Mr Johnson insisted Britons should be optimistic about what can be achieved.

He told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme: 'The important thing now is to be as positive as we can. There is much more good will among our European friends than you might pick up from the debate in the UK.

'What I might do is look to the horizon and think to a couple of years time... when we will have negotiated as the Prime Minister said not just a Brexit deal but a deep and special partnership.

'That is a resolution of a British problem that has been dithering on for decades.'

Asked if he would call it off in the face of a bad deal, Mr Johnson said: 'There is every prospect our friends and partners will want to do this deal.

'There is obviously the free trade we want to strike but then there is the deep and special partnership we want to build.'

Mr Johnson is in Luxembourg today taking part in a meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers about terrorism.

Boris Johnson (pictured in Luxembourg today) hailed the opportunities of Brexit today as the official talks finally begin in Brussels

He said the battle against extremism showed why Britain could still be close to its EU allies in future.

He said: 'We have so many things in common - look at the London Bridge attack, the Westminster Bridge attack, the Manchester attack - so many EU nationals were involved in that, so many EU nationals amongst the fatalities.

'We need to work as Europeans to deal with those problems.'

Asked if Prime Minister Theresa May could possibly lead the process, Mr Johnson said: 'My strong view is the last thing the electorate wants is more elections, there is a huge task to get on with on Brexit.

WHAT WAS ON THE LUNCH MENU? David Davis and Michel Barnier enjoyed a 'working lunch' during the first day of talks. On the menu was: Starter: Belgian asparagus with vinaigrette Main: Red mullet with vegetables and fondant potatoes. Dessert: Meringue cake with wild strawberries Petit Four: Mocha coffee with cakes. Advertisement

'We can do it well, in a positive way. We can build something absolutely brilliant out of this with our European friends.'

Ahead of his talks today, Mr Davis said the negotiations would 'shape the future' of both the EU and the UK.

He said: 'We want both sides to emerge strong and prosperous, capable of projecting our shared European values, leading in the world, and demonstrating our resolve to protect the security of our citizens.

'I want to reiterate at the outset of these talks that the UK will remain a committed partner and ally of our friends across the Continent.

'And while there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear  a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history. I look forward to beginning work on that new future today.'

Mr Davis will be accompanied by a nine-strong negotiating team that includes the most senior civil servants at the Department for Exiting the EU (DexEU), as well as officials from the Treasury and Home Office and Mark Sedwill, the national security adviser to the Prime Minister.

Mr Barnier yesterday tweeted that he was spending the weekend hiking in the French Alps 'to draw strength and energy' ahead of the start of the talks.

A Whitehall source said the DexEU team was ready.

He added: 'This place is absolutely humming. Everyone is up for this.

Prime Minister Theresa May (pictured in Finsbury Park today) will have to close the deal on whatever Mr Davis negotiates with Brussels

'This whole department has spent months working flat out to get in the position we are now to start negotiations  and it has just gone up a gear.

'The atmosphere and the positivity, the whole place is upbeat. This notion that we're in disarray is just not the truth.

'We're looking forward very much to getting going on Monday. We have got a strong team. This idea that somehow we're a shambolic outfit couldn't be further from the truth.

'You have got David Davis at the top of the department  a massively experienced parliamentarian, former businessman, knows his way around a deal, is a strong and canny operator.

Eurocrats told they can go home early because of hot weather as Brexit negotiations start A notice from the EU's HR department and posted online today says staff can go home early if the temperature hits 30C Eurocrat in Brussels have been told they can go home early because of the hot weather - despite the start of tough Brexit negotiations. Brexit Secretary David Davis has travelled to Brussels for the start of the formal talks, which will have an impact on Britain and the EU for decades to come. But despite their huge importance, EU officials have been told they can duck out early if temperatures hit 30C. In a bizarre email sent by their HR department, officials have also been advised to turn lights off and wear loose clothing to cope in the balmy weather. And they point out that staff should open windows and not drink alcohol while at work during the hot weather. Advertisement

'You have got Brexit permanent secretary Olly Robbins, a phenomenally experienced civil servant. You have got Sir Tim Barrow, one of the country's foremost diplomats and negotiators.

'And that is just the top three, and beneath them you have got a tier that is the cream of Whitehall that is working on this.

'The department is up and running and is looking forward to getting going. We're ready to go and looking forward to it.'

Talks will focus on the status of expats, the UK's exit settlement and the Northern Ireland border.

But officials insisted the UK would continue to push for an agreement on trade relations to be dealt with alongside a deal on the withdrawal process.

Mr Davis and Mr Barnier appeared to acknowledge that they have a mountain to climb in the Brexit talks - by giving each other hiking-related gifts.

In an exchange to mark the formal start of the negotiations on the UK's withdrawal from the European Union, the Brexit Secretary gave Brussels' chief negotiator a rare book on mountaineering.

Mr Barnier, who prepared for the negotiations by spending the weekend in the French Alps, presented Mr Davis with a hiking stick.

A UK source said: 'Both gifts reflected their shared love of climbing and mountaineering.'

Mr Davis presented Mr Barnier with a first edition of one the great mountaineering books - a French language version of Regards vers l'Annapurna, signed by Marcel Ichac, one of the two authors.

The book is said to be a stunning account of an epic French expedition to the Himalayas in 1950.

Mr Barnier gave the Brexit Secretary a traditional carved wood walking stick from his home region of Savoie.

In May, Mr Barnier issued a thinly-veiled warning to Prime Minister Theresa May about the perils of Brexit after discovering their shared passion for hill-walking.

He said: 'If you like walking in the mountains, you have to learn a certain number of rules.

'You have to learn to put one foot in front of the other, because sometimes you are on a steep and rocky path.

'You also have to look at what accidents might befall you, falling rocks.

'You have to be very careful to keep your breath, you have to have stamina because it could be a lengthy path.

'And you have to keep looking at the summit, the outcome. That's what I learnt when mountain-walking.'

Mrs May's ill-fated decision to call a snap General Election was taken during a walking holiday in Snowdonia.

LET BATTLE COMMENCE... TEAM BREXIT SQUARE UP TO THEIR BRUSSELS ADVERSARIES

With the British on the left and the EU on the right, the negotiating teams meet for the first time yesterday. Seated from left to right, they are:

1. Sir Tim Barrow

Permanent RepresenTative to the EU

Having made his reputation as a Russia expert who wooed the Kremlin as our man in Moscow between 2011 and 2015, dealing with Brussels is unlikely to faze the career diplomat. Sir Tim has shunned the limelight since becoming our envoy to the EU earlier this year. He will have a key role garnering information in back-channel embassy talks.

2. David Davis

Brexit Secretary

Though viewed as a leading Eurosceptic, the Tory veteran is no stranger to Brussels and knows Michel Barnier from their time as Europe ministers in the 1990s. A former SAS reservist who grew up on a London council estate, he is seen as the ideal candidate to fight the UKs corner if faced with tough demands from the 27 other member states.

3. Oliver Robbins

Permanent Secretary at the Department for Exiting the European Union

At around 6ft 3in, the burly civil servant certainly looks like he wont be messed with, but is best known in Whitehall for his intellect. Only 42, the Oxford PPE graduate has already served in senior roles for David Cameron, Theresa May and Gordon Brown.

4. Mark Bowman

Director General, International Finance, at HM Treasury

Former economist joined the Treasury in 1995, where he has spent much of his career.

5. Glyn Williams Director General at the Home Office

Experienced official who has specialised in immigration and border controls since 2010. Will be pivotal in finding a solution to one of the most controversial issues at the talks.

6. Francois Arbault

Internal market in goods and non-financial services Chief

Worked in Michel Barniers private office between 2010 and 2013. An all-rounder who joined the European Commission in 1995 after studying political science and law.

7. Philippe Bertrand

Financial settlement Chief

A key player in reaching a settlement on the contentious divorce bill that the UK will be asked to pay. He is a highly-experienced EU budget specialist with an eye for detail.

8. Georg Riekeles

Inter-institutional affairs team leader

The Norwegian was a member of Mr Barniers cabinet when he served as financial services commissioner and is regarded as one of the EUs most talented bureaucrats.

9. Richard Szostak

adviser to Jean-Claude Juncker

Trusted by the European Commission president after helping shape his approach on major political events, including Brexit.

10. Sabine Weyand

Michel Barniers deputy

A former student at Cambridge in the 1980s and seen as one the best and brightest of the Brussels technocrats. The German has more than 20 years experience carving out trade deals for the Commission. Can be brusque but is known as a problem-solver.

11. Michel Barnier

Chief EU Brexit negotiator

A seasoned French official was once called an enemy of Britain for trying to impose controls on the City. Ambitious, he is distrusted in some UK quarters, but is also known as an ultra-charming negotiator. Brexit role has made him a rock star figure in Brussels. Has promised a hard-line approach.

12. Stephanie Riso

Director of strategy and communication in Brexit task force

A former economist will seek to make sure the UKs divorce payment plugs the funding gap caused by Brexit in 2019 and 2020.
A beautician was hospitalised and left with a back that looked like 'pork scratchings' - despite claiming she applied Boots sun protection spray every 45 minutes.

Melissa Wrigley, 21, jetted off to Gran Canaria for a week-long break with her partner last month but on the last day enjoying the sun she suffered second degree burns.

Eye-watering images show her back red raw and covered in blisters, before it peeled and cracked to give it a scaly appearance similar to the fatty pub snack.

Melissa Wrigley, 21, jetted off to Gran Canaria for a week-long break with her partner last month but on the last day enjoying the sun she was severely burned

Eye-watering images show her back red raw and covered in blisters, before it peeled and cracked to give it a scaly appearance similar to the fatty pub snack

Ms Wrigley said her fiance Tom slathered her back with Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Factor 30 spray.

She did the rest of her body in a different protection cream.

However the holidaymaker claims she was left in 'agony' and having to take a trip to hospital when she returned home when the Boots cream failed to work.

Ms Wrigley, from Birmingham, said: 'I didn't feel anything to start with, then we went out to a bar and my back started to get really painful.

Ms Wrigley said her fiance Tom slathered her back with Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Factor 30 spray.

'I went back to my sister Donna's house and had a cold shower to wash it off. I got her to put some after-sun on it - she said it felt a bit warm and lumpy.

'Later the feeling was unbearable, I couldn't even dress myself. It was even painful to move.

'I was horrified when I saw it - it looked just like pork scratchings - it was disgusting. I was thinking "my God, I'm going to be scarred because it's that deep".'

Ms Wrigley and salesman Tom had been sat in the sunshine for two hours playing cards at her sister's house before they were due to fly home.

The duo said Tom reapplied the Boots cream to her back every 45 minutes and claim to have used it three times on the now-scorched spot.

Ms Wrigley was in such discomfort the following day she couldn't bear to have any tight clothing touching her burnt back and travelled on the flight back to Birmingham braless wearing one of Tom's loose-fitting t-shirts.

She went to A&E that day, May 24, and said a nurse confirmed she had second-degree burns and hundreds of blisters, which were at risk of infection.

Ms Wrigley said: 'It was probably for the best that I couldn't see it. I think I was just scared of what I was going to see. I was so worried I waited until I got home.

'I was horrified when I saw it, it looked disgusting. I was thinking 'my God, I'm going to be scarred because it's that deep'. I was just worried it would be like that forever.

'Being engaged I was thinking 'will I be able to have the backless dress that I want when I get married?'

'I'm thinking in the long term and how it could have ruined my special day.

The holidaymaker claims she was left in 'agony' and having to take a trip to hospital when she returned home when the Boots cream failed to work

The duo said Tom reapplied the Boots cream to her back every 45 minutes and claim to have used it three times on the now-scorched spot. Pictured: Ms Wrigley's back after it had healed

'I have freckles and moles - I didn't really remember having them before but I've been paying more attention to them now.'

Ms Wrigley a said she contacted Boots to complain when she returned home to demand the product be removed from the shelves but was only offered 25-worth of advantage points.

She also claims she was told no further action could be taken as she no longer had the bottle.

Ms Wrigley said: 'When I complained to Boots they asked for my Boots advantage card [number].

Ms Wrigley a said she contacted Boots to complain when she returned home but was only offered 25-worth of advantage points

'When my mum said they would only offer me advantage points, little did I know she was right.

'When someone from Boots rang me back they asked if I had the bottle. I told them no as I couldn't bring it back through airport security.

'I was told if I didn't have the bottle they couldn't investigate it. I've done my research and it's happened to a lot of people.

'I'm really disgusted with Boots. It's not as if I wanted anything from them, I just want them to do something about the product.

'Lots of people have been complaining on Facebook that this could have happened to them - this could have happened to their kids.

'I want them to take it off the shelves because if it happened to my stepdaughter I would be absolutely furious.'

Ms Wrigley had to have the bandages changed daily by her fiance and relied on a cocktail of anti-histamines, ibuprofen and paracetamol for pain relief.

She said: 'To be honest I was just disappointed. I had gone away for this relaxing break and I wasn't refreshed - I felt ten times worse than when I went. I would have rather stayed at home.'

A Boots UK spokesman said: 'We are very sorry to hear about this incident. We take the safety and well being of our customers very seriously and the quality and safety of our products is of the utmost importance to us.

Ms Wrigley had to have the bandages changed daily by her fiance and relied on a cocktail of anti-histamines, ibuprofen and paracetamol for pain relief. Pictured: Ms Wrigley's back with the second-degree burns, left, and after it had healed, right

Ms Wrigley with her sister, Donna Philips, while on holiday in Gran Canaria. She said she felt 'ten times worse' on her return from holiday compared to before she left

'We have always been committed to protecting our customers' skin from the sun and our products are rigorously and independently tested to ensure they are safe and effective.

'In hot sunny conditions like the ones we are forecast to experience over the coming days, may we remind customers to always follow safe sun guidelines by minimising time in the sun, seeking shade and using a cover-up, ensuring they use the correct strength sun protection for their skin type and the climate in which it will be used, as well as following the instructions for use.'
A Japanese visitor said she has had 'the most terrifying journey of her life' after her taxi driver in China drove her to the airport at shocking speeds.

The female tourist said she was left shaking in fear after her taxi overtook about 50 vehicles in two minutes on a busy motorway.

A video of the 11 taxi ride has been widely shared after the woman posted it onto her Twitter account.

A Japanese visitor to China recently had a terrifying taxi ride on her way to the airport

The video was posted by a Twitter user, named 'sugary_pixie', on June 12.

The vehicle kept changing lanes and overtaking vehicles, as the clip shows.

The Twitter post came with a brief description of her ordeal in Japanese and has been shared for almost 20,000 times. The clip was also trending on various other platforms, including Youtube.

The female passenger told Chinese news site BT Time: 'It's the most terrifying journey of my life.'

She also said: 'The engine was running very fast and I felt very insecure. But I didn't dare to say anything.'

At one point, she said she was so scared she nearly cried.

The woman said she giggled in disbelief after surviving the shocking taxi ride.

The female visitor claimed the vehicle was traveling 1.3 times faster than the normal speed. The exact speed was not stated at the report.

The Twitter user, named 'sugary_pixie', posted a video on June 12 showing the taxi overtaking more than 50 vehicles on a busy motorway in less than two minutes

Despite the terrifying journey, the woman appeared to be impressed by the cheap taxi fare in China.

'Taxis in Japan are clean and safe, but they are too expensive,' she said. 'Taxi fare in China is so cheap.'

She said she paid 98 yuan (11) for the ride. She also estimated that a similar taxi ride in Japan could cost over 10,000 yen (70).

The woman said she didn't plan to complain to the taxi company.

The passenger described the taxi ride in China as 'the most terrifying journey' of her life

The visitor also said that she giggled in disbelief after surviving the shocking taxi ride

The clip, also posted to China's micro blogging platform Weibo, attracted thousands of comments online.

'I want to have the driver's contact. I will call him when I need a fast ride in Shanghai,' one user noted.

'This taxi driver should have been a racing driver,' another user joked.

'It's quite normal in China. She doesn't have to be that afraid,' a third user commented.
Devastated Londoners have vowed to 'love not hate' after another sickening terror attack rocked the capital this morning.

Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to social media to confirm that they will not let terror attacks divide them. One wrote: 'Terrorists are terrorists! Nothing to do with any religion.Let's #StandTogether & not let them divide us!'

One person was killed and ten more injured after a white van driver screaming 'I'm going to kill all Muslims' ploughed into worshippers near a renowned north London mosque in the early hours of this morning.

A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after the van mounted the pavement and veered into a congregation outside the Muslim Welfare House near Finsbury Park Mosque, shortly after they finished Ramadan evening prayers.

Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to social media to vow that they will not let terror attacks divide them (Pictured: Some of the Tweets posted this morning)

One person wrote on Twitter: 'My little patch has just got a little less safe and a lot sadder. Lunatics will not divide us.'

Heroic bystanders wrestled the suspect - who was clean-shaven with curly hair and wore a white t-shirt - to the floor and pinned him down until officers arrived after he allegedly screamed:'I want to kill all Muslims', and 'I did my bit'.

At the time of the attack, which was just after midnight, several people were heroically giving first aid to an elderly member of the public who had collapsed at the bus stop with a medical issue.

Today, police confirmed he was the man who had died. Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu said it is not yet known if his death was caused by the terror attack.

A police cordon has been set up at Seven Sisters Road this morning as officers flood the scene outside the Muslim Welfare House

Another said: 'A direct hate crime on the Muslim community. Hate will NEVER drive out hate!'

He said a further eight casualties are being treated across three London hospitals for 'serious injuries' while two victims sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

As details of the attack emerged, the Muslim Council of Britain condemned the incicnde as 'the most violent manifestation' yet of Islamophobia and called for extra security around mosques.

The Met Police has now vowed to put extra security around mosques as Muslims continue to mark the holy month of Ramadan.

Last night, dramatic footage emerged from the scene showing the suspect - who was described as looking 'indifferent' and 'like he didn't care' - being tackled to the floor by angry bystanders as they waited for police to arrive at the scene.

In footage taken at the scene, bystanders are seen pinning the suspect to the ground and held him until police arrived (left). In another clip, the suspect is seen waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van (right)

Two police officers are seen helping a victim towards an ambulance car as devastated bystanders watch on in horror following last night's attack

In another clip, the man - who was then handed over to officers by the group - is pictured waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van.

This morning, Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed the incident is being treated as a potential terror attack and called an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee.

The widower of murdered MP Jo Cox spoke out on Twitter as news of the attack broke, saying that the far right and Islamist terrorists shared an ideology and both must be defeated.

Brendan Cox tweeted: 'Far right facists&Islamist terrorists are driven by same hatred of difference, same ideology of supremacy&use same tactics.We'll defeat both.

'When islamist terrorists attack we rightly seek out hate preachers who spur them on. We must do the same to those who peddle Islamophobia'.

Mother-of-two Mrs Cox, who represented the Batley and Spen conctituency in West Yorkshire, was shot and stabbed as she arrived for a constituency surgery in Birstall on June 16 last year.

The widower of murdered MP Jo Cox spoke out on Twitter as news of the attack broke, saying that the far right and Islamist terrorists shared an ideology and both must be defeated

'Tough times don't last. Tough people do': Finsbury Park Tube worker's poignant 'Quote Of The Day' urges people to stick together after the terror attack A transport worker has penned a poignant message to commuters who awoke to news of another horrifying terror attack in the capital. The apt quote, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station, and signed by underground staff, British Transport Police and emergency services. The message, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station On June 8, terrorists Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba hired a van and ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before going on a knife rampage attacking people enjoying meals and drinks in Borough Market, killing eight people and leaving 21 in a critical condition. In the wake of that sickening act, a message appeared at London Bridge's underground station reading: 'London Bridge will never fall down. 'You can't break our spirit.' It is believed to have been written by a TFL employee. Commuters passing through the north London station this morning saw the defiant message Advertisement
A drunk driver has pleaded guilty to culpable driving after killing a young Melbourne nursing student while three times over the legal blood alcohol limit.

Subha Anand, 29, blew a 0.159 reading following the accident that claimed the life of 19-year-old Natasha Pigot.

Ms Anand had been travelling at a minimum speed of 115km/h in a 70km/h zone and her court case has been delayed since February because she was pregnant.

Ms Pigot's mother, Aleacha McMaster, told Herald Sun outside court on Monday the time since the incident had been the 'worst of her life.'

Subha Anand, 29, blew a 0.159 reading following the accident that claimed the life of 19-year-old Natasha Pigot (pictured)

Ms Anand had been travelling at a minimum speed of 115km/h in a 70km/h zone

Ms Pigot had been waiting at an intersection in Williams Landing on January 10 when she was hit by Anand's car.

Anand's car smashed into the back of Ms Pigot's, causing her to spin into oncoming traffic.

Ms McMaster questioned Ms Anand's motives as her court case had been delayed since February because she was pregnant.

'I believe that she tried to start a family, get married and to have a baby, just to try and get out of this,' Ms McMaster said.

'She didn't want to go to court because she didn't want to put her baby in harm's way. But she put my baby in harm's way, she killed my baby.'

Culpable driving carries a maximum sentence of up to 20-years in prison.

'She needs to just be punished for what she did and that alone is enough for me,' Ms McMaster said.
A group of British tourists caused an easyJet flight to be grounded in Portugal after they were arrested on suspicion of taking cocaine in the plane's toilet.

The boozy trio, all men, were arrested in Lisbon after cabin crew noticed them making regular trips to the toilet before finding a bag containing a substance they believed was cocaine.

The other 181 passengers on the flight, which left Manchester for Tenerife, were forced to wait while the group were hauled off the aircraft in the Portuguese capital.

A group of British tourists caused an easyJet flight to be grounded in Portugal after they were arrested on suspicion of taking cocaine in the plane's toilet

One holidaymaker said the alleged 'aggressive' behaviour of the louts caused a member of the cabin crew to break down into tears, after they were caught three hours into the flight.

Sophie Bennett, 26, who was travelling with her boyfriend Harry Granger, 27, told the Sun: 'Over the next few hours the lads got aggressive, swearing at the crew.

'At one point one of the crew was crying because of stress.

Recalling when the plane was grounded for 50 minutes, she said: 'We were only given about ten minutes' warning. A couple cried when they found out.'

Passengers were forced to wait 50 minutes in Lisbon, while the group were hauled off the flight, before heading off to Tenerife

Once hauled off the flight the men were taken into custody and later appeared in court.

They were released 'pending the decision of the judge' with investigations on going, Lisbon police said.

A spokesman also confirmed that tests had been carried out on traces of the substance found in the bag, but the results were inconclusive.
A transport worker has penned a poignant message to commuters who awoke to news of another horrifying terror attack in the capital.

The apt quote, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station, and signed by underground staff, British Transport Police and emergency services.

It comes after one person was killed and ten more injured after a white van driver screaming 'I'm going to kill all Muslims' ploughed into worshippers outside the nearby Finsbury Park mosque.

The message, 'Tough times don't last. 'Tough people do. Stick together. All of us', was scrawled on a board at Finsbury Park Tube station

Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

A 48-year-old man has been arrested and remains in hospital, in police custody.

Brave bystanders wrestled the suspect to the floor outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park and pinned him down police officers arrived.

He had allegedly screamed: 'I want to kill all Muslims', and 'I did my bit'.

At the time of the attack, which was just after midnight, several people were giving first aid to an elderly member of the public who had collapsed at the bus stop with a medical issue.

Today, police confirmed he was the man who had died. Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu said it is not yet known if his death was caused by the terror attack.

Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to social media to vow that they will not let terror attacks divide them. One wrote: 'Terrorists are terrorists! Nothing to do with any religion.Let's #StandTogether & not let them divide us!'

Another wrote: 'My little patch has just got a little less safe and a lot sadder. Lunatics will not divide us.'

Hundreds of defiant Londoners have now taken to the street and to social media to vow that they will not let terror attacks divide them

Commuters passing through the north London station this morning saw the defiant message

A police cordon has been set up at Seven Sisters Road this morning as officers flood the scene outside the Muslim Welfare House

The injured are carried from the scene by police and paramedics - one is dead and ten are injured

Devastated members of the community have been leaving floral tributes at the scene

Defiant Londoners have been united in their grief in the wake of yet another atrocity to hit the capital.

On June 8, terrorists Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba hired a van and ploughed into pedestrians on London Bridge before going on a knife rampage attacking people enjoying meals and drinks in Borough Market, killing eight people and leaving 21 in a critical condition.

In the wake of that sickening act, a message appeared at London Bridge's underground station reading: 'London Bridge will never fall down.

'You can't break our spirit.' It is believed to have been written by a TFL employee.
Frightening video footage has emerged of locals fleeing a tsunami in Greenland as waves carrying huge blocks of ice crashed into houses leaving four people missing.

A Danish media report said the waves late on Saturday might have been caused by an earthquake creating a landslide into the sea, which in turn would have generated a swell.

Residents and their pets can be seen running away from the shore as the water swallows their homes and possessions.

Waves carrying huge blocks of ice smash into seaside houses, destroying possessions in Greenland

The Greenland government said the small village of Nuugaatsiaq in the northwest was flooded, while two other places in the same region, Uummannaq and Illorsuit, were also affected.

Nuugaatsiaq was evacuated but four people were still missing, Greenland's police said in Sunday's statement.

Local media also reported several casualties.

The Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland (GEUS) registered an earthquake with magnitude of 4 in the area, the Danish news agency Ritzau reported.

GEUS senior researcher Trine Dahl Jensen told Ritzau that it was a 'good guess' that the waves were triggered by a landslide because of the quake.

'You have seen that in Greenland before,' Jensen said.

The waves may have been caused by a tsunami at sea (mechanism pictured), although, GEUS senior researcher Trine Dahl Jensen told Ritzau that it was a 'good guess' that the waves were triggered by a landslide because of the quake

Liselotte Boehm of Greenland's police told Danish broadcaster TV2 she could not confirm the cause. 'What we know is that some big waves have caused flooding,' she said.

Denmark has sent emergency workers to support the Greenland police.

Police in Greenland, which is part of Denmark with self-government over domestic affairs, had no comment on the cause.

The Greenland government said the small village of Nuugaatsiaq in the northwest was flooded, while two other places in the same region, Uummannaq and Illorsuit, were also affected

The earthquake late Saturday with a magnitude of around 4.0 on the Richter scale is believed to have caused the huge waves

Dramatic footage shows people's possessions swept out of their homes in Greenland

Iceland's foreign minister has reportedly offered assistance to Greenland after the tsunami
David Davis has been tipped as the unity candidate who could oust Theresa May and become Tory Party leader.

The Brexit Secretary, who is in Brussels today for the start of formal talks to leave the EU, is being touted as the likely successor if Mrs May suddenly quits.

The Prime Minister is hanging on to her job by a thread after leading her party to humiliation in the election and being widely criticised for her flatfooted response to the Grenfell Tower fire.

And reports at the weekend claim she has been given just ten days to save her premiership or face being ousted by Tory MPs.

David Davis, pictured in Brussels today where he is beginning formal Brexit negotiations, has been tipped to be the next Tory party leader if Theresa May suddenly goes

Boris Johnson is the bookies favourite to land the top job if Mrs May goes, but allies of the Foreign Secretary told The Telegraph that Mr Davis is the one to watch.

One ally of Mr Johnson told the newspaper that Mr Davis would be a 'serious contender' for the leadership, and the 'perfect tonic' against leftie Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

But Mr Johnson today backed Mrs May to stay as Prime Minister - despite frenzied speculation that he is plotting to launch a leadership bid.

The comments come after he was forced to deny he is plotting a leadership bid after being pictured in the pub with Defence Secretary Michael Fallon at the weekend.

The two Cabinet ministers were pictured deep in conversation on a bench overlooking the river in the village of Chipstead in Kent, just a mile from the foreign secretary's official residence Chevening House.

Boris Johnson and Michael Gove today both gave their public backing to Theresa May to stay on as Prime Minister - despite reports that she could be ousted

But speaking on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme, Mr Johnson gave his public backing to the PM.

Asked if he expects Mrs May to stay in post, he said: 'My strong feeling is that the last thing the electorate wants is more elections or more political shenanigans of one kind or another.

'There's a huge task to get on with Brexit.

'We've got to do it well, we can do it in a positive way, I think we can build something brilliant out of this.'

Michael Gove, who has made a dramatic return to the frontbench as Environment Secretary after being sacked by Mrs May last year, also backed her to stay on.

Theresa May, pictured yesterday at church with her husband Philip, is in talks to strike a confidence and supply deal with the DUP which will enable her to cling on in No 10

He said she will stay on to deliver Brexit.

He told BBC radio 4 Today programme: 'I think that there's support across the Conservative Party for Theresa, and also support for the position that she outlined before, during and after the election.'

Mr Johnson dramatically pulled out of last year's Tory leadership bid after being betrayed by his close friend Mr Gove.

Mrs May is still in talks to strike a confidence and supply deal with the DUP which would enable her to cling on in No 10 with the backing of the party's ten MPs.

But the clock is running on the talks as the Queen's Speech - which sets out the government's legislative agenda - will take place on Wednesday.
The council in charge of Grenfell Tower has nearly 300million in 'usable reserves', it emerged today.

Kensington and Chelsea borough council - accused of failing to protect those killed in the fire - have built up the huge sum through what it calls an 'extensive cost reduction programme'.

While residents of the devastated tower block protested about cuts, the local authority put money into a scheme to host opera performances in the borough.

They ploughed 5million from the council's reserves into helping set up Opera Holland Park (OHP) as an independent charity in 2015, and lost 1.5million on staffing and operating the event.

Protesters demand answers from Kensington and Chelsea council over the Grenfell Tower blaze. It emerged today that the council has huge sums in usable reserves

The Tory leader of Kensington council, Nick Paget-Brown, has refused to quit over the fire

Protesters from the Greenfell Action Group previously demonstrated outside the event, insisting public money should be spent on local services rather than 'propping up' the opera.

In a press release from when 5million was given to the opera in 2015, Cllr Tim Coleridge, cabinet member for the arts, insisted: 'Our final grant gives them a strong financial foundation in which to flourish and grow and I look forward to enjoying the company's performances for years to come.'

A council spokesman insisted at the time that there was 'no relationship between services and the opera season'.

Last year, housing bosses in the borough took around 55million in rent, but invested less than 40million back in council housing, an investigation by The Times showed.

A draft statement of the council's latest accounts states: 'The financial standing of the Council is robust, with a strong balance sheet and substantial reserves backed by cash and investment holdings.'

The statement boasts 'usable reserves at 31 March 2017 of 274 million (300 million at 31 March 2016)' and 'a General Fund underspend of 10million'.

The council put millions into hosting an opera event in the borough. Pictured: A performance of Eugene Onegin in Holland Park in 2005

Residents of Grenfell protested against the use of council money for the opera two years ago

In addition, the council handed back 100 to top-rate council taxpayers in 2014 after trumpeting 'an overachieving efficiency drive'.

The Tory leader of Kensington and Chelsea council, Nick Paget-Brown, has refused to quit over the fire whose official death toll stands at 79.

Mr Paget-Brown sidestepped questions over whether he felt guilty about the tragedy, telling BBC Radio 4's The World At One: 'I feel terrible about the whole position we find ourselves in.

'All I'm keen to say is there is an effective, co-ordinated relief effort on the ground and I'm sorry if people haven't seen that.'
A Spanish city is becoming famous worldwide after live-streaming the storks that nest on its historic rooftops.

Alcala de Henares has more than 130 stork nests and the birds are becoming a tourist attraction in their own right.

Bird lovers around the world have been watching the storks build their nests and hatch their chicks on video-sharing websites after a web camera was set up to monitor one family.

Fans have watched the stork couple hatch three adorable chicks and nurture them.

Set up by SEO Bird Life Spain, the Webcamciconia project has attracted more than a quarter of a million views and generated thousands of comments on social media.

Spain accounts for 69 percent of the visits but there were more than 26,000 from Poland, 13,000 from the Czech Republic, 7,000 from Germany, 4,500 in the US and nearly 3,000 in Russia.

The webcam has followers in Venezuela, Mexico and Colombia, and has even reached Japan, where there have been about 1,000 views.

The video stream has generated 80 videos featuring the most significant moments of the life and daily habits of one couple of storks that nest in the city.

Bird lovers around the world have been watching the storks build their nests and hatch their chicks on video-sharing websites after a web camera was set up to monitor one family

The famous storks have received thousands of comments of support, through the sharing of their special moments, including the greatly anticipated arrival of the hatchlings with one user commenting, "Welcome to the world!"

Alcala de Henares, 22 miles north-east of Madrid, has been dubbed the city of storks with the number of birds nesting in the city increasing each year.

They fly to the city from Africa to raise their young each year and, in some areas of the historic city, it seems there is a stork nest on every rooftop.

A fireman takes one of the baby storks in Alcala de Henares so that conservationists can monitor it. The Spanish city is becoming famous worldwide after live-streaming the storks

Conservationists ring the birds to monitor them and ensure that they have a plentiful supply of twigs and branches to build their nests.

Alcala de Henares is famous for its rich archaeology and its historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The link to see the storks nest in real time is https://www.geocam.ru/en/online/alcala-de-henares-storks/ though the webcam was offline this morning for unknown reasons.
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Stunning photographs have emerged showing the sparkling Milky Way spread across in the night sky above various parts of New Zealand.

The images were taken by 31-year-old project engineer Grey Chow, who travelled from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to New Zealand for a holiday.

He took the photographs in a dark sky reserve, only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only eight in the world.

The striking images show a pathway leading up to Nugget Point Lighthouse on the Otago coast, Chow standing on a raised walkway in Hooker Valley with a bright pink glow on the horizon and a starry sky above.

Another image shows a bright purple archway of the Milky Way over a beach and thousands of stars above the Church Of The Good Shepherd in Lake Tekapo.

A stream of purple and golden stars appear to shower down from the sky above a Moeraki boulder, while a green and golden glow covers the sky above Lake Wanaka.

Dark sky reserves are areas usually surrounding parks or observatories that restrict artificial light pollution.

This means the light conditions are perfect to capture images in amazing high quality and it provides the best visibility to witness the Milky Way. Mr Chow took the photographs using a Nikon D610 + Nikkor 50mm f1.8g.

Stunning photographs have emerged showing the Milky Way in the night sky above various parts of New Zealand. Pictured is the walkway up to Nugget Point Lighthouse underneath a sparkling sky

The images were taken by 31-year-old project engineer Grey Chow, who travelled from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for a holiday. Chow is pictured standing on a raised walkway in Hooker Valley, New Zealand with the Southern Lights in the background

Chow took the photos in a dark sky reserve, an area which is completely free from light pollution. He is pictured using a flashlight to illuminate himself under the arc of the Milky Way on a beach in New Zealand

The dark sky reserve is only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only eight in the world. Pictured are thousands of stars above the Church Of The Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo, the most photographed church in New Zealand

Purple and golden stars are seen blanketing the sky above a Moeraki boulder n Koekohe Beach on the Otago coast of New Zealand between Moeraki and Hampden

Dark sky reserves are areas usually surrounding parks or observatories that restrict artificial light pollution. Pictured is Chow pointing a flashlight up towards the Milky Way over a river bed in New Zealand

Because of the lack of light pollution light conditions are perfect to capture images in amazing high quality and it provides the best visibility of the Milky Way. Pictured is Lake Wanaka (left) and Nugget Point Lighthouse (right)
Los Angeles police arrested a gangland suspect who is accused of kidnapping his former girlfriend following a high-speed car chase and six-hour rooftop stand-off.

LAPD said the suspect grabbed his ex-girlfriend into his car in the Sylmar district in the north of Los Angeles.

A helicopter captured the chase which ended when the suspect fled on foot.

These are the dramatic scenes as a suspected gang member is chased through Los Angeles

The LAPD gave chase to the suspect after he kidnapped his ex girlfriend

The man abandoned his car with the police in hot pursuit in Sylmar in northern Los Angeles

According to the LAPD, the man tried to get into a house but was blocked by one of the residents.

The man then climbed on a roof where he remained for four hours

Lieutenant Joseph Kalyn told ABC 7 before the attacker surrendered: ' The strategy is time. We have both lethal and nonlethal weapons. We have our crisis negotiation team out here, and our SWAT team. And they're going to take as long as we need to talk this gentleman off the roof in a peaceful resolution."

The suspect eventually surrendered about 1:15 a.m. and was taken into custody for kidnapping. Further details into his arrest were not released.

The suspect climbed on top of a house and remained in a standoff for some four hours
The brother-in-law of murdered mother Karen Ristevski has declined to answer questions about why he was at the bush site where Ms Ristevski's body was discovered.

In shocking Nine News footage which aired on A Current Affair on Monday, Vasco Ristevski was filmed walking towards his truck in the isolated bush land where Ms Ristevski's body was found decomposing between two logs in February.

When reporter Martin King asked Vasco 'Can you tell me what you're doing out here?' Mr Ristevski declined to answer and fled the scene.

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The brother-in-law of murdered mother Karen Ristevski, Vasco (pictured) has declined to answer questions about why he was at the bush site where Ms Ristevski was discovered

Ms Ristevski was last seen by her husband Borce at their Avondale Heights home on June 29, 2016 before her body was discovered in a shallow grave at Mt Macedon, Melbourne's north-west eight months later.

Vasco Ristevski is the brother of Borce Ristevski, who was confirmed as a suspect this week in his wife's murder.

Channel Nine's 60 Minutes crew said their run-in with Vasco at the site was a complete 'chance encounter'.

The news crew followed Vasco's trail into the forest and was lead to Ms Ristevski's former grave site.

Channel Nine's 60 Minutes crew said their run-in with Vasco (pictured) at the site was a complete 'chance encounter'

Vasco Ristevski is pictured getting back in his car as he declines to answer questions before driving off

Former homicide squad investigator Charlie Bezzina, who accompanied the Nine News crew, said the circumstances were alarming.

'It's interesting that when we pulled up Vasco was in this area heading in this direction. What's he doing here? I don't know,' he said.

When Mr bezzina examined the site, she said it looked as if someone had been 'scratching around' the former shallow grave.

'Look it could have been (an animal) but I don't believe so,' he said.

There is no suggestion Vasco Ristevski is implicated in the death of his sister-in-law.

Karen Ristevski (pictured) was last seen on the morning of June 29, 2016 at her Avondale Heights home in Melbourne

When Mr bezzina examined the site, she said it looked as if someone had been 'scratching around' the former shallow grave

It comes as an iPad seized from the Melbourne home of Ms Ristevski was found to contain 'suspicious' Google search history about how police detect blood.

Other searches found on the device include how police trace phones and how to delete mobile phone data, the Herald Sun reports.

Detectives revealed the iPad history was discovered when the Ristevski family's Avondale Height's home was swept for clues after her disappearance.

Initial investigations pointed to Ms Ristevski's husband Borce (right) as 'number one suspect'

Victorian police have released footage of a car believed to be Karen Ristevski's being driven in the direction the Melbourne mother's body was found

Police on Thursday released the first breakthrough since the discovery of Ms Ristevski's body four months ago after uncovering footage of what is believed to be Ms Ristevski's car drivingtowards the Mt Macedon bush land.

The CCTV footage, taken on the day the 47-year-old went missing, show a black Mercedes-Benz SLK coupe being driven through Diggers Rest towards Mount Macedon. The driver and registration plates could not be seen.

Detectives believe Ms Ristevski's body was in the car when it was snapped going over the Diggers Rest railway crossing on June 29, 2016, the Herald Sun reports.

Cecause the vision was so difficult to make out, police could not be sure it was Ms Ristevski's car and hoped witnesses near Diggers Rest might have seen it after 11am that day.

The CCTV photo shows a black Mercedes-Benz SLK coupe driving through Diggers Rest towards Mount Macedon

Footage does not show the car's driver and registration plates cannot be seen

Detectives said they have spoken to the registered owners of similar vehicles about their activities on the day

Detectives said they have spoken to the registered owners of similar vehicles about their activities on the day Ms Ristevski went missing, but some owners were yet to be contacted.

Police are urging that any owners or drivers of black 2004 to 2006 Mercedes Benz coupes, who have not yet been approached, to contact police.

Mr Ristevski denies he had anything to do with his wife's disappearance and death.

Victoria Police Missing Persons Squad chief Tim Day yesterday confirmed that Ms Ristevski's husband is still a suspect in the investigation

A copy image of the Mercedes vehicle that Ms Ristevski drove

Victoria Police Missing Persons Squad chief Tim Day on Thursday confirmed that Ms Ristevski's husband was still a suspect in the investigation of the killing of his wife and the dumping of her body at Mt Macedon.

'Yes he's a suspect. His own lawyer said he's a suspect,' Det-Insp Day said.

'He remains a suspect. Whether there are other suspects or not I'm not going to comment on.

'But do I suspect the Mercedes in the CCTV footage may be Karen Ristevski's car, yes I do.

Former detective Charlie Bezzina told 7 News last month the case 'may never be solved' as Ms Ristevski's cause of death is difficult to determine due to the length of time her body lay undiscovered.
The grieving mother of Skye Turner has relived the heartbreaking moment her daughter told her: 'I don't want to be like this any more.'

An emotional Marie Turner, mother of Skye and Channel Nine reporter Laura, says she had no idea of the depth of her daughter's addiction and has pleaded with the government to change laws on drug rehabilitation.

'This is hell, this is hell, and I will never recover from Skye's death.'

Marie Turner (pictured), mother of Skye and Channel Nine reporter Laura, says she had no idea of the depth of her daughter's addiction and has pleaded with the government to change laws around drug rehabilitation

Mother-of-two Skye Turner (pictured) died of a heroin overdose in March of 2017

Marie said she attempted to explain to the hospital that Skye was suicidal just before she died.

'She told me she wanted to die, that her life was not worth living.'

Marie says the hospital released her into the care of another drug addict, and when her mother asked why, she was told 'she just needs to get off the drugs.'

On the day of Skye's death, Marie said she knew what was coming as soon as the police arrived.

'One of them said: 'there is no easy way for me to say this,' and I knew I had lost Skye. I knew that she was gone.'

Marie and Laura Turner are committed to having injecting rooms legalised, a rehabilitation service they believe could have saved Skye's life.

'She would love to think that something comes of her demise, that something positive comes of it.'

Marie told A Current Affair the hospital released her in the care of another addict and didn't listen to her when she said Skye was suicidal

Marie and Laura Turner are committed to having injecting rooms legalised, a rehabilitation service they believe could have saved Skye's life

Channel Nine reporter Laura spoke of her close relationship with her sister, who were the only children in their family

Victorian journalist Laura Turner (left) and her family are calling on the Victorian Government to open a safe injecting room after her sister Skye (right) fatally overdosed on heroin in March

Sister Laura told Daily Mail Australia 'for a heroin addict in Australia, your survival can be dependent on your postcode, and that is a tragedy.'

'It would mean the world to us to be able to save the life of someone like Skye. We couldn't save her life.

'She struggled with mental health issues, and we didn't know she had turned to heroin to mask those issues until it was very much too late and we can't save her, she's sadly passed away.'

Ms Turner says over the last few months, there has been a huge push in Victoria for a safe injecting room, with even the state cororner endorsing the move.

'We know emergency services want this, that many health professionals want it, residents in that area want it too and we know that the injecting room set up in Sydney has had incredible results,' Ms Turner said.

'So we're calling on the Victorian Government to follow our northern neighbours and help save lives.'

Skye had been struggling with her mental health for years, and Ms Turner explained she had spent time in and out of different facilities over that time.

The family feels they have been hugely let down by the services that should have helped Skye, but instead turned her away.

Ms Turner (pictured) said if the room had been available, her sister would have used it, and the support and access to support services at the rooms could have helped her

'There are Government services which claim to help, but you're really just constantly in a cycle of turning up somewhere, asking for help, and being turned away,' Ms Turner explained.

'You're treated like a number. It hurts. You're a tax payer, a contributor to society and the Government says it has services to help and they're not helping.

'There were a number of times my sister was discharged from hospital and just sent on her way when she clearly wasn't okay and that is really frustrating and heart breaking as someone who wants to help her.'

In the days leading up to her death, Ms Turner says Skye had threatened her life at a hospital, but was turned away from admission at the psychiatric facility and discharged.

The Channel Nine journalist describes her sister Skye as 'an incredible, intelligent, woman with a lot to offer the world'.

'She was a former state sprinter, she worked for the ABS for many years, but she was also someone who had her demons and her issues and that got the better of her later in her life,' she said.

Ms Turner said her sister had tried to seek help multiple times and had been turned away

With many perceiving injecting rooms as breeding grounds for violence and anti-social behaviour, it can be hard to rustle up public support. But Ms Turner says her sister was none of those things - she just needed a helping hand.

'Skye wasn't a criminal offender, she hasn't hurt anyone physically  she was a person struggling with mental health problems who was trying to mask that pain  a very common story,' she said.

'The thing we would like people to understand is that heroin users are not just junkies and drug users there to be bashed by society, they're someone's mother, father, sister brother  they're people's children who deserve understanding.'

Skye was afraid of needles, making it even more difficult for her family to comprehend their loss.

The Channel Nine reporter said her sister was 'an incredible, intelligent, woman with a lot to offer the world'

'We do know that she was, ironically, health conscious, and she would seek help at different times and injecting rooms don't just hand out needles.

'[The rooms] also provide support and support services for those struggling with addiction so we are certainly of the belief that she would have used one.'

The Victorian branch of the Australian Medical Association has endorsed safe injecting rooms since 2012.

Following the Victorian State Coroner's report advocating for the rooms in February this year, AMA Victoria President Dr Lorraine Baker said: 'AMA Victoria supports a trial of supervised injecting facilities and has found no reason to change its position since the writing of this policy in 2012.

An injecting room in Sydney has been open for 16 years, has overseen about a million injections and never seen a death from an overdose

'Progress on this issue is regarded as of the utmost importance.'

The Victorian Government is awaiting the findings of a Parliamentary Inquiry to make a decision on the matter, but have previously rejected the idea.

The recent state budget allocated $220.1 million in alcohol and drug services including safe injection equipment and Naloxone, used to treat narcotic overdoses.

'Drug addiction is complex - no one solution can protect our community from its debilitating impacts,' Victorian Minister for Mental Health, Martin Foley, told Daily Mail Australia.

'We have a number of responses and interventions to respond to community concerns, keep people safe and provide the support people need.

'We welcome the Parliamentary Inquiry into Drug Law Reform, which has begun and await the findings of this Inquiry.'
A veteran federal prosecutor recruited onto special counsel Robert Mueller's team is known for a skill that may come in handy in the investigation of potential ties between Russia and U.S. President Donald Trump's 2016 campaign team: persuading witnesses to turn on friends, colleagues and superiors.

Andrew Weissmann, who headed the U.S. Justice Department's criminal fraud section before joining Mueller's team last month, is best known for two assignments - the investigation of now-defunct energy company Enron and organized crime cases in Brooklyn, New York - that depended heavily on gaining witness cooperation.

Securing the cooperation of people close to Trump, many of whom have been retaining their own lawyers, could be important for Mueller, who was named by the Justice Department as special counsel on May 17 and is investigating, among other issues, whether Trump himself has sought to obstruct justice.

Trump has denied allegations of both collusion and obstruction.

Feared: Federal prosecutor Andrew Weissmann specializes in 'flipping' witnesses. In 2003 he was part of the Enron probe and got its former treasurer Ben Glisan to talk

Leading the charge: Robert Mueller, the former FBI boss who is now special counsel, is assembling a formidable team of prosecutors

'Flipping' witnesses is a common, although not always successful, tactic in criminal prosecutions.

Robert Ray, who succeeded Kenneth Starr as the independent counsel examining former President Bill Clinton, noted that Trump's fired former national security advisor, Michael Flynn, has already offered through his lawyer to testify before Congress in exchange for immunity, suggesting potential willingness to cooperate as a witness.

'It would seem to me the time is now to make some decisions about what you have and what leverage can be applied to get the things you don't have,' Ray said, referring to Mueller's team.

Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and others close to the president already have hired their own lawyers to help navigate Mueller's expanding probe and ongoing congressional investigations.

Kathryn Ruemmler, who served as White House counsel under former President Barack Obama, said Weissmann is willing to take risks to secure witness testimony that other prosecutors might not.

Ruemmler worked with Weissmann on the Justice Department's Enron task force that investigated the massive corporate fraud that led to the company's 2001 collapse.

Ruemmler recalled that Weissmann had a hunch that former Enron treasurer Ben Glisan would be willing to talk despite already having pleaded guilty without agreeing to cooperate.

Denial: Although Trump, who returned from Camp David Sunday with wife Melania and youngest son Barron, tweeted that he was being investigated by Mueller, his personal attorney is denying that is the case

Offered to talk: Mike Flynn, the disgraced former National Security Advisor, has already asked for a deal with the Senate so would be a target for Weissmann. Jared Kushner has his own legal team

So Weissmann had U.S. marshals bring Glisan before the grand jury from prison, Ruemmler said.

Other prosecutors might have feared Glisan's testimony could contradict their theory of the case, Ruemmler said, but Weissmann's gamble paid off when the former executive became a key witness.

'He's not afraid to lose, and that is sometimes an unusual quality,' Ruemmler said of Weissmann.

Weissmann also led lengthy negotiations with lawyers for Andrew Fastow, Enron's former chief financial officer and a star prosecution witness in the case, gaining leverage from the fact that prosecutors had indicted Fastow's wife, also a former Enron employee, on tax fraud charges.

Both pleaded guilty, and Fastow testified against former Enron CEO Jeffrey Skilling, who was convicted in 2006.

Fastow declined to comment. Glisan could not be reached for comment. Representatives for Mueller and the Trump legal team declined to comment.

Critics have said say Weissmann's hardball approach can lead to prosecutorial overreach.

A number of Enron convictions were overturned on appeal, and Skilling's 24-year sentence was later reduced by 10 years.

Defense lawyer Tom Kirkendall, who represented clients related to the Enron case, said the task force intimidated witnesses and misinterpreted the law.

But Sam Buell, a former prosecutor who was a member of the Enron task force, called such criticism routine in high-stakes cases.

Mueller has several other highly experienced lawyers on his team, including U.S. Deputy Solicitor General Michael Dreeben. Trump has also been building a legal team led by New York lawyer Marc Kasowitz, with veteran Washington defense lawyer John Dowd recently coming aboard.

Before his work relating to Enron, Weissmann served as a federal prosecutor in the organized crime bureau in Brooklyn.

In 1997, he and trial partner George Stamboulidis brought down one of the country's most powerful mob bosses, Vincent 'the Chin' Gigante, with the help of turncoat witnesses.

'We cut our teeth in the organized crime section,' said Stamboulidis, now in private practice.

'And the only way you can make those cases is to get people to cooperate, even when the oath of Omerta (a Mafia code of silence and non-cooperation with authorities) was strong and in full play.'
Four men have been charged following an alleged racial attack on a family in Hull.

Kieran Bush, 22, claims his 17-year-old Polish girlfriend Olivia Johnson was attacked and his father stabbed with a beer bottle during the confrontation on Friday.

He claimed a group of at least three men, believed to be Polish, abused Ms Johnson before punching and stomping her in the head.

Kieran Bush, 22, claims his 17-year-old girlfriend Olivia Johnson, a Polish national, was attacked and his father stabbed with a beer bottle during the confrontation on Friday

Mr Bush, his father, Mark, and Ms Johnson were all left with bloody injuries after the attack on Granville Street.

Mark Bush needed an operation on his leg, while all three had scratches and bruises.

Humberside Police confirmed officers were called to a 'disturbance' on Friday night after reports five people were assaulted in the incident.

Four men, who all live on Granville Street, have been charged following the attack.

Thomasz Tchorzewski, 27, was charged with two counts of racially or religiously aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, affray and wounding with intent.

Mr Bush, his father, Mark,(right) and Ms Johnson(left) were all left with bloody injuries after the attack on Granville Street

Mark Bush's injuries to his leg, reportedly made by a Corona bottle, required him to undergo surgery

Ernest Mariusz Bachowski, 25, was charged with affray.

Robert Tchorzewki, 29, was charged with two counts of racially or religiously aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm, affray and wounding with intent.

Lukasz Chluba, 30, was charged with racially or religiously aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The men will appear in Hull Magistrates Court today.

Humberside Police confirmed officers were called to a 'disturbance' on Friday night after reports five people were assaulted in the incident. Pictured: Injuries to Kieran Bush
Passengers of China Eastern Airlines have told of terror after their flight from Paris was yesterday hit by severe turbulence, causing many on board to be 'thrown to the ceiling'.

Some passengers have suffered skull base fractures, spinal damage, shoulder fractures and scalp lacerations during the horrifying experience that has left at least 26 people injured, according to Chinese state media.

The news came just a week after a China Eastern Airlines flight from Sydney was forced to turn around when its flight crew noticed a huge hole in the plane's engine.

The overhead compartments were left with holes after passengers were slammed into them by severe turbulence on a China Eastern Airlines' flight from Paris yesterday. The above picture was provided by a passenger to Chinese media

At least 26 passengers have been confirmed injured during the event and some of them are said to sustain skull base fractures, spinal damage, shoulder fractures and scalp lacerations. Pictured, one of the injured passengers was treated in a hospital in Kunming

The plane landed in Kuming Changshui Airport at 8:43am local time - about six hours after the turbulence - and passengers were taken to the hospital by paramedics (pictured)

The incident happened on China Eastern Airlines Flight MU774 at around 3am Beijing time on June 18, about four hours after the takeoff.

The plane landed in Kunming Changshui Airport safely six hours later and passengers were immediately taken to the Yunnan No. 1 People's Hospital and Yan'an Hospital in Kunming, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Xinhua reported that the passengers suffered injuries, including skull base fractures, shoulder fractures and scalp lacerations, caused by falling baggage or collisions with overhead lockers.

At least 26 passengers have been confirmed injured. Four of them sustain serious injuries.

It's believed that many of the injured passengers were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the turbulence.

'We felt strong turbulence twice and minor turbulence three times. The process lasted about 10 minutes,' one passenger, named as Zhang Shuqing, told Xinhua.

China Eastern Airlines confirmed the incident on its social media account on June 18. The company said it had arranged medical services, but no further details have been given

Another passenger, known as Ye Xiaojie, told Xinhua that many passengers had been thrown to the ceiling from their seats.

Ye said the overhead compartments were left with several holes after passengers were slammed into them on their heads, shoulders, legs and waists.

Another middle-aged male passenger told Pear Video that he saw lightning strike outside the aircraft as the turbulence took place.

It's estimated that the Airbus A330-200 was carrying more than 200 passengers, including a Chinese tour group.

The wide-body aircraft typically flies around 247 passengers. One passenger told Xinhua that the plane was nearly full.

The plane, said to carry over 200 passengers, was bound for Kunming Changshui Airport (pictured) in Kunming, the provincial capital of southern China's Yunnan Province

The plane took off from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 3:44pm local time on June 17 and landed in Kuming Changshui Airport at 8:43am local time on June 18, a customer service representative from China Eastern Airlines told MailOnline.

China Eastern Airlines confirmed the incident on its official microblog account on June 18.

The post, which was uploaded an hour after the flight landed in Kunming, said 'some passengers experienced discomfort' after the plane was hit by turbulence.

The Shanghai-based company said it had arranged medical services, but no further details have been given.

'(We) remind all passengers, for your safety, please fasten safety belts,' the post added.

Another China Eastern Airlines plane was forced to abort a flight to Shanghai and turn back to Sydney on June 11 when a massive hole was ripped in part of its left engine (pictured)

Just a week earlier, a China Eastern flight from Sydney to Shanghai was forced to turn around after its flight crew noticed a hole in the plane's engine just moments after taking off.

Images show a gaping hole across the engine casing of the Airbus A330, which departed at 8.30pm on June 11.

Flight MU736 reached Bulli, about 70km (43 miles) south of Sydney, before it made the emergency call to Sydney Airport.

Passengers told media they heard a loud bang or explosion after take off.
Arthur Collins pleaded not guilty to six counts of GBH and 11 of ABH in relation to an acid attack at a nightclub in east London

The ex-boyfriend of TOWIE star Ferne McCann has denied carrying out an acid attack which left two clubbers partially blinded and others disfigured.

Arthur Collins, 25, pleaded not guilty to six counts of causing grevious bodily harm and 11 of actual bodily harm when he appeared at Wood Green Crown Court today via video link from HMP Thameside.

A 24-year-old man and 22-year-old woman were each blinded in one eye while up to 18 others were burnt after the attack outside the Mangle nightclub in Dalston, east London in April.

Collins was arrested by armed police in his underpants at in Rushden, Northamptonshire, during an early morning raid.

Reality TV regular McCann is currently pregnant with his baby.

Andre Phoenix, 21, also denied six counts of causing grievous bodily harm and 11 of actual bodily harm in relation to the same incident.

Luke Ponte, prosecuting, said recent strains on emergency services have slowed down the gathering of evidence.

Recent cyber attacks on the NHS meant theres been a back log in requests for these medical statements, he said.

Some witness statements are being obtained by experts in plastic surgery, and they have been needed elsewhere in the past week.

The attack caused panic among clubbers and Sophie Hall, 21, was hit by the burning liquid while out celebrating a friends birthday.

Left Collins with ex-girlfriend McCann and right, a court sketch of the defendant from April

Australian Isobella Fraser, 22, and her 20-year-old sister Prue also suffered burns to their arms and legs during the attack.

Clubbers Kwami Licorish, Scarlet Marshall, Tamara Castle, Jay Lanning, Nadia Pascal, James Bloor, Lauren Trent, Phoebe Georgiou, Laura Hester and Macai Brown were also injured.

In total 22 people were hit by the corrosive substance.

Both Collins and Phoenix were remanded in custody to stand trial at Wood Green Crown Court on 9 October.
Tracie Harrison, 52, from Blyth, was on holiday in Greece with friend Wendy Sears when their quad bike flipped over

A British grandmother has been left in a coma in a Greek hospital after a quad bike accident on the holiday island of Zante.

Tracie Harrison, 52, from Blyth, was riding on the vehicle with best friend Wendy Sears when they hit a pothole while going around a bend.

The vehicle then flipped, throwing Ms Harrison off and leaving her with devastating head injuries and broken bones.

Tracie, who works with troubled schoolchildren in North Tyneside, was airlifted from Zante to hospital in Ioannina on the Greek mainland.

She is currently in intensive care and in a coma with brain trauma, having had part of her skull removed, as well as chest injuries and a broken pelvis.

Ms Sears, also 52, suffered a broken ankle and is back in the UK receiving treatment following the accident on Friday, June 9.

While Ms Harrison did have travel insurance, the company has said say it does not cover quad bike accidents and is refusing to pay out , leaving the family facing a bill of thousands of pounds.

Tracie's mum, Terri Brand, and her 30-year-old daughter Rachael, have flown to Greece to be by her side.

Ms Harrison is now in a coma in hospital in Greece having suffered severe head injuries which forced doctors to remove part of her skull

Terri, 68, said: 'This is a really difficult time. Visiting the hospital is like hell in paradise. We are only allowed to spend 30 minutes with Tracie because it's an ICU and Rachael has to spend 10 minutes of that talking to a specialist.

'You have to psych yourself up before you walk on to the ward. I have to stay positive and I talk to Tracie all the time, about anything and everything.

'Yesterday a tear rolled down her cheek. It's just so stressful. The ICU is clean but it's not up to our standards.

'There is another English couple here whose daughter spent time on a normal ward and they said it was dirty. We want to get her home.

'We might be able to fly her back to Newcastle but first we need to be told she's stable and she's OK to fly back.

'She's done so much for the community in Blyth. She has worked hard, she's a proud, independent woman and now she needs help.'

Family members praised Ms Harrison, who works to keep troubled children in education, as 'an amazing woman' who is 'strong, positive and caring'

Rachael said holiday operator Thomas Cook has been a fantastic help to the family, but they are having trouble understanding what the Greek doctors are telling them.

On Monday, they are hoping the British Embassy will send a translator, so they can move towards bringing Tracie home.

Tracie is a grandmother to nine-year-old Cameron and Evie, 17 months, and helps keep children in education at George Stephenson High School in North Tyneside.

Rachael, a mental health worker, said: 'Mum is such an amazing woman. She's so strong, positive and caring.

'She used to work in a prison, helping with inmates' education. She touched so many people's lives and made so many friends.'

Already, friends and loved ones have raised thousands of pounds but the family fear the price of getting the grandmother back to the North East could spiral.

Rachael added: 'It would mean the world to have her home. Her grandchildren Cameron and Evie are waiting for her. We just want this nightmare to be over.'
There was nobody on the bridge of a cargo ship when it struck the USS Fitzgerald on Saturday claims one defense expert, as the US Navy and Japanese authorities clashed over the timing of the fatal accident.

As the official investigation over who is to blame for the collision which claimed the lives of seven US Navy sailors got off to a shambolic start, an expert with defense industry bible Janes said that the ACX Crystal was likely operating on autopilot and the crew was asleep.

And while the US Navy faces embarrassing questions over how one of their advanced $1.5bn warships was struck in near perfect visibility, it emerged that American officials are claiming the collision occurred nearly one hour after the Japanese Coast Guard say it did.

'I suspect, from the data, that the ACX Crystal was running on autopilot the whole time, and nobody was on the bridge. If anyone was on the bridge, they had no idea how to turn off the autopilot,' said Steffan Watkins, an IT security consultant and ship tracking analyst for Janes Intelligence Review, to DailyMail.com.

Course: This was the approximate route of the ACX Crystal before it collided with the USS Fitzgerald on Saturday morning - both ships officially reported a crash to the Japanese Coast Guard just after 2.20am on Saturday

Official time: The Japanese Coast Guard have said that the ACX Crystal collided with the USS Fitzgerald at 1.30am before the 30,000 ton cargo vessel began to perform a large U-turn - seen in red

Account: Following the collision at 1.30am the ACX Crystal was observed making a huge loop round which ended with it returning to the site of the accident with the USS Fitzgerald at 2.20am where they both reported their deadly crash

Seven US Navy sailors were killed in the collision, authorities have confirmed. They are (top row, left to right) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, CA; Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, VA; Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, CT; and Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, CA. Bottom row (left to right Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., from Elyria, OH; Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, MD; and Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, TX

Coast guard official Tetsuya Tanaka said authorities are trying resolve what happened during the disputed 50 or so minutes.

Indeed, Navy spokesman Commander Ron Flanders added to the general air of confusion when he said that the official line is that the accident occurred at 2.20am.

When asked about the Japanese position that the crash happened at 1.30am, he said, 'That is not our understanding'.

Speculation has centered on why the USS Fitzgerald and its skeleton crew was struck on its starboard side in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Under international maritime rules, the Fitzgerald would be expected to give the ACX Crystal the right of way and real-time charts appear to show the Filipino-crewed vessel was sailing on that side.

This screenshot shows a track of the route of the container ship ACX Crystal that collided with the USS Fitzgerald: The track of the container shipis route by MarineTraffic shows it made a sudden turn as if trying to avoid something at about 1:30 a.m., before continuing eastward. It then made a U-turn and returned around 2:20 a.m. to the area near the collision

Heavy damage is pictured on the US Navy missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald after it collided with a cargo ship near Japan early on Saturday morning

On Saturday, both the US Navy and the Japanese Coast Guard said the accident occurred at 2.20am, leading to some experts theorizing that the series of unusual turns performed by the Crystal before that time may have caused the accident.

However, after interviewing the crews, the Coast Guard say the accident occurred at 1.30am and that the unusual maneuvers were the result of the Crystal returning to the scene to confirm a collision - and that is why it reported the accident at 2.20am.

Nanami Meguro, a spokeswoman for owners NYK Line told CBS News that one reason why the Crystal did not report the accident when it first happened was because it was all hands on deck.

'Because it was in an emergency, the crewmembers may not have been able to place a call,' she said.

However, the US Navy rejects this and says that the accident occurred at 2.20am and not 50 minutes earlier.

It is not clear why the US and Japan are disagreeing over the timing of the accident nor is it clear how the deadly collision occurred.

Multiple U.S. and Japanese investigations are under way on how a ship as large as the container could collide with the smaller warship in clear weather said coastguard spokesman Takeshi Aikawa.

Damage: The ACX Crystal reveals the damage caused by her collision with the USS Fitzgerald on Saturday

The victims might have been killed by the impact of the collision or drowned in the flooding, said Navy spokesman Lt Paul Newell, who led the media on a visit to get a firsthand look at the mangled destroyer. 'The damage was significant,' he said. 'This was not a small collision'

Listing: A shot of the ship's helipad shows how dramatically the USS Fitzgerald is listing after the accident

The impact of the collision crushed the starboard side of the Fitzgerald. The ship was visibly listing as it sailed into its home port in Yokosuka, Japan on Saturday afternoon.

Janes expert Watkins says that a sudden and unexplained U-turn observed on charts was performed by the ACX Crystal to see what had been hit - after human control was re-established on the bridge.

The Japanese authorities confirmed to DailyMail.com that they received the distress call from the Crystal container ship - which is crewed exclusively by Filipinos - at 2.20am local time.

But the owners, Tokyo based shipping firm NYK Line, told the DailyMail.com that the collision occurred at 1.30am.

The damaged US Navy destroyer USS Fitzgerald is seen berthing at Yokosuka Naval Base in Yokosuka, south of Tokyo

The discrepancies led to some media reports, based on the tracking of the Crystal, suggesting the Crystal had turned suddenly before the time the Navy insists the crash took place.

But the tracks of the merchant ship showed this was impossible, as the Crystal slowed just after 1.30am and then made a U-turn.

Commercial shipping can be tracked, such as the ACX Crystal, in real time via maps on maritime websites.

Steffan Watkins told DailyMail.com that the u-turn could have been carried out to find out what had been hit.

He stated: 'The collision happened at 1.30am, not 2.20am or 2.20am as the US Navy and the US 7th Fleet has mistakenly reported.'

A spokesman for the Pacific Fleet confirmed the Navy is sticking with its time of 2.20am for the time of the collision.

The damage to the destroyer suggests that the ACX Crystal might have slammed into it at a high speed, raising questions about communication between the two vessels in an area where as many as 400 ships pass through every day, according to Japan's coast guard

The container ship was seen making a U-turn before the collision on some ship trackers, a move that has raised questions about what happened. Both Aucoin and the Japanese coast guard, however, said it was too early to determine what led to the collision

After shifting through the data of the Crystals tracks at sea Watkins has concluded the cargo carrier mistakenly blindsided the Fitzgerald as the ship was without a human pilot at the time.

According to the the tracking data 15 minutes after the presumed 1.30am collision with the Fitzgerald, the ship righted it's course, and increased speed, readjusting for the change in course the collision had made.

'This is, to me, proof that a computer was driving. No captain shakes off a collision with a US Navy Destroyer and resumes course so perfectly,' said Watkins.

The company that charted the Crystal, NYK Line, confirmed to DailyMail.com that its offices received a call from to say they had hit something.

It wasn't until an hour later that the merchant ship informed the Japanese coast Guard.

'After further review of all the data and their own information (I am not privy to what sensors and transponders they might have) I'm sure the US Navy knows by now the hit was at 1.30am, but is in a difficult position to explain that time difference,' said Watkins.

A screenshot provided by vessel-tracking service MarineTraffic shows a track of the route of the container ship ACX Crystal that collided with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off Shimoda in the Izu Peninsula, southwest of Tokyo

'Not calling it in until 2.25am is unbelievable unless you consider they had no idea what they hit until 2.25am.

'It is unconscionable to think a 30,000 ton vessel collided with, and could have utterly destroyed, another vessel, and waited an hour to call the Japanese Coast Guard and report the collision.'

So far there is nothing to indicate how two well equipped vessels could not avoid one another.

Scott Cheney-Peters, division officer aboard the Fitzgerald 2006-2008, suggested the accident was down to human error.

The coast guard questioned crew members of the ACX Crystal, and is treating the incident as a case of possible professional negligence, said Masayuki Obara, a regional coast guard official

'There's a lot that can go wrong even when the bridge team one or both ships is doing everything it can to avoid a collision. It's too early to speculate on the exact circumstances in this case so this is only to help understand the context,' he told Mailonline.

'The first thing to remember is the physics - ships can carry an immense amount of momentum with them given their size.

'Every time two ships approach each other at sea they rely on codified rules of the road to govern how they perform their delicate dance.

'But making sure they get the steps right depends on a shared understanding of the situation - which can be more difficult at night - and failing that, communication.'

The US Navy and the Japanese authorities, and NYK have declined to comment on aspects of the ongoing investigation, nor has an explanation been offered as to why USS Fitzgerald did not see the ACX Crystal coming and vice versa.

All parties have refused to discus the investigation which they say is still ongoing.

According to Japanese law suspects in criminal proceedings, such as these, can be held for at least 23 days without charge and without access to lawyers.

The coast guard declined to confirm if they were still questioning the Philippine crew and captain in Yokohama with the Crystal in now berthed.
Jared Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trump's international envoy, will arrive on Monday.

Trump made a personal appeal for peace during a visit to Jerusalem last month. He has cast Middle East peace as the 'ultimate deal.'

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama all tried and failed to achieve a peace deal.

The White House official - who was not authorized to speak publicly about the trip - said an agreement will take time.

Off this week: Jared Kushner will arrived on Wednesday in Jerusalem on a Middle East peace mission on behalf of his father-in-law the president

All the president's men: Jared Kushner is leading the push for Middle East peace. His relationship with Steve Bannon (right) is known to be extremely frosty. Stephen Miller (center) is a policy adviser thought to be closer to Bannon than Kushner

The president's son-in-law's new peace push comes after Trump made his first foreign trip and included stops in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, meeting Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

The president made no mention in his visits of the 'two-state solution', the idea of Palestine and Israel coming to a peaceful co-existence with statehood for Palestinians which has been the key principle behind every effort made by successive U.S. presidents since Clinton.

Palestinians voiced dissatisfaction with Trump for not explicitly backing the principle.

However there was support in Israel for 'moving on' from what one politician called a 'failed concept'.

There remains a background of tensions and violence in the region.

Israel revoked on Sunday the permits of 200,000 Palestinians to enter Israel that were approved for the holy month of Ramadan following two near simultaneous Palestinian attacks on police that killed a young female officer near Jerusalem's Old City.

Israeli defense body COGAT, posted the announcement on its Arabic language Facebook page. Earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that preparations are under way to destroy the homes of the Palestinian attackers and tighten security at the entrance to the Old City, home to sensitive holy sites sacred to Jews, Muslims and Christians.

Three Palestinian attackers armed with an automatic weapon and knives assaulted officers on duty near the Old City in two locations Friday evening.

Police said Staff Sgt. Maj. Hadas Malka, 23, was rushing to respond to that initial attack nearby when a Palestinian assaulted her with a knife.

Malka wrestled with the man for several seconds as he stabbed her multiple times before other officers saw what was happening and opened fire, killing him, police said. She later died of her wounds in hospital.

Strike back: Israeli security forces raided the West Bank village of Deir Abu Mash'al near Ramallah, on Saturday, the village day after an attack in Jerusalem killed a police officer. The three Palestinian attackers were from the village.

Strike back: Israeli security forces raided the West Bank village of Deir Abu Mash'al near Ramallah, on Saturday, the village day after an attack in Jerusalem killed a police officer. The three Palestinian attackers were from the village.

The Islamic State group took responsibility for the attacks but two Palestinian militant groups, Hamas and People's Front for the Liberation of Palestine quickly retorted the three attackers were their members and accused IS of trying to undermine their efforts.

Thousands attended her funeral Saturday night. Netanyahu visited her grieving family on Sunday. He said Malka is 'everybody's daughter and everybody's hero.'

Earlier, at his weekly Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu lashed out at Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas for not condemning the attack.

Israel had previously announced its annual goodwill measures for Ramadan that included 200,000 thousand visiting permits for family visits for Palestinians from the West Bank and access for 100 Gaza residents to attend prayers at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque.

COGAT said the visiting permits were canceled but the prayer permits remain unchanged.

There was no official comment from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Netanyahu criticized the Palestinian government for not condemning the attack.

He called for the world to "demand the immediate cessation of Palestinian Authority payments to the families of terrorists, something that only encourages terror."

Israel has long unsuccessfully pushed for the Palestinians to halt the "martyrs' fund" payments to roughly 35,000 families of Palestinians killed and wounded in their long-running conflict with Israel, including suicide bombers and other militants.

Last week U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the Palestinians had agreed to stop the payments but both the Palestinians and Israel disputed the claim.

Israel argues that such pay promote violence. It stepped up a campaign against the fund after a wave of Palestinian attacks began in September 2015.

Since then, Palestinian assailants have killed 43 Israelis, two visiting Americans and a British student, mainly in stabbing, shooting and car ramming attacks. In that period, some 250 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire. Israel identified most of them as attackers.

At times the attacks were daily occurrences, but they have relatively subsided in recent months. However there have been a string of recent attacks near the Old City in east Jerusalem.

Israel captured the territory with its key holy sites from Jordan in the 1967 war.

Israel considers the city its eternal, undivided capital while Palestinians want the eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

The fate of the area is an emotional issue at the heart of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

Israel blames the violence on incitement by Palestinian political and religious leaders compounded on social media sites that glorify violence and encourage attacks.

Palestinians say it stems from anger over decades of Israeli rule in territory they claim for their state.
Eduvigis Rodriguez (pictured) underwent an unnecessary mastectomy in April 2015, when doctors misdiagnosed her with breast cancer

A 51-year-old New York City woman underwent an unnecessary mastectomy after doctors mistakenly diagnosed her with an aggressive form of breast cancer.

Now Eduvigis Rodriguez, of Harlem, is suing the hospitals that failed her and left her traumatized.

According to the lawsuit, obtained by the New York Post, Rodriguez went to the doctor in 2015 after feeling a lump in her left breast.

She had a biopsy done at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital, where pathologist Dr. Jean Marc-Cohen diagnosed her with infiltrating ductal carcinoma, the most common form of breast cancer and one of the most aggressive.

She was then referred to Lenox Hill Hospital to have a mastectomy.

Since 2012, Lenox Hill requires that all outside biopsy results be double-checked before major surgery happens.

But Rodriguez's surgeon, Dr. Magdi Bebawi, skipped that step. However, he still signed a document certifying that the outside pathology results had been reviewed.

It was only after the surgery happened, and doctors were reviewing the removed breast tissue, that they discovered that it wasn't cancerous at all.

Doctors then looked over the original samples and concluded that both showed 'benign breast tissue'.

Rodriguez's attorney, Andrew Carboy, said that it was Dr. Bebawi's fault - as well as staffers at both hospitals - that Rodriguez underwent an unnecessary surgery.

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Dr Jean-Marc Cohen misinterpreted Rodriguez's left breast biopsy, saying she had cancer when she really had a benign lump. He then referred her to Lenox Hill Hospital for surgery, where doctors failed to double check her pathology results

'A second review of the biopsy tissue at Lenox Hill, in advance of any surgery, would have resulted in the cancellation of the mastectomy,' Carboy said.

In his deposition for the medical malpractice lawsuit, Dr. Bebawi said he felt horrible for what happened.

'After the surgery, when I was told that the review of the biopsy showed no cancer, I immediately called her and made her aware that I am very sorry and I feel very bad that we did this procedure for no cancer,' the surgeon said.

'I did the surgery based on the pathology report which I received,' he said.

Learning about the false diagnosis was mentally trying for Rodriguez.

'I didnt know whether to smile and thank God I didnt have cancer or cry because Ive been through so much,' she told the Post.

Rodriguez went on to have reconstructive surgery to her left breast, that resulted in complications including blood clots in her lungs and a surgical hernia that required even more procedures.

She said she is suing because she wants 'justice' for what happened to her.

'I want justice, and I want explanations. I do not want to see this happen to anyone else. I had confidence in the surgeon and the hospitals, but I cannot believe all the mistakes that were made,' she said.

A spokesman for Mount Sinai Beth Israel said that the hospital is still investigating.

Lenox Hill spokesman Barbara Osborn said: 'Ensuring quality patient care is Lenox Hills No. 1 concern. Due to concern for the privacy of our patient as well as the pending litigation, we are unable to comment at this time'.

Bebawi is no longer performing surgeries. A staffer at his office said that the doctor has been on 'medical leave'.

Dr. Cohen appears to be continuing to work as a pathologist.
Michael Gove was left squirming this morning after Piers Morgan tore into the government's woeful response to the Grenfell Tower killer blaze.

The Good Morning Britain presenter said desperate people left homeless by the disaster have been told they have to move hundreds of miles away if they want to keep a roof over their head.

And he slammed the authorities for giving some victims just 10 a day to survive on in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, before finally forking out just 500 in cash and another 5,000 in their bank accounts.

Addressing Mr Gove directly, he asked: Where is the help Michael? Where is the government? Where is the help?

'Why has it been left once again to the communities to try to help themselves?

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Michael Gove was left struggling to answer after Piers Morgan tore into the government's slow response to the Grenfell Tower disaster on Good Morning Britain this morning

Piers Morgan demanded to know why victims ad in some cases been given just 10 a day to survive on and told they would have to move miles away to cities like Birmingham and Manchester if they wanted to keep a roof over their head

Mr Gove, who was brought back to the Cabinet as Environment Secretary a week ago, insisted he shared Morgan's anger.

He said: Piers, I'm as angry as you are about what happened, I'm as distraught as you are about what has happened.

I know people who have been working in that community in education and in local government who are abstractedly devastated.

But in a devastating attack, Morgan lashed out at the lack of support to those who lost their homes and family in the fire - one of Britain's worst peacetime disasters.

He said: For five days there has been a sense of absolutely no command central control whatsoever. That is on your governments head - your Prime Minister, your Cabinet, your government.

And I don't think anything like enough has been done for these desperate people.

'And I think simply tossing out after five days, here is you 500 quid, not good enough.

There are people down in there who are absolutely grief stricken  lost family members, lost friends lost everything and they are getting fobbed off.

Why isnt the government just absolutely besieging that area with people to help them?

Theresa May and her government have been widely condemned for their pitiful response to the disaster

Piers Morgan said the government's response to the disaster was too little too late and that once again it had been left to the community itself to help and support the victims

Some victims were left to sleep in make-shift beds set up in a nearby community center while others said they were told they would have to move miles away to other cities like Birmingham.

Some 79 people died in the blaze, which quickly swept through the North Kensington tower block after the cladding became alight, and the death toll could rise.

Mrs May was widely criticised for her slow response after she initially failed to meet locals when she visited the sit.

The government eventually announced a 5million fund to help the victims, with 5,500 going directly to each one.

But Morgan said the money will be seen as too little too late, while his co-presenter Susanna Reid stressed that the community needs a answers and a public inquiry into the tragedy should not be allowed to drag.

Mr Gove said I think we absolutely need the truth and people need to move quickly on this.

I'd say two things. First I think its a really good thing that overnight the government said that every single family affected will get 500 in cash and 5,000 in their bank account to help them..'

But Morgan issued him a tongue lashing and said the response fell far short of what should have been offered.

Visibly angry, he said: If you has lost your home and it had been burnt to the ground with everything you possess and I said to you here have 500 quid and by the way  as in some cases we believe  we are going to move you and your family to Birmingham or to Manchester or further north take it or leave it thats it", youd be outraged wouldnt you?

You wouldnt think Oh thats generous". Youd think, "I'm sorry I've got to go where? Ive got to leave my community, leave my home when my home has been obliterated by policies by politicians".

Mr Gove said he used to live 'seconds away' from the block and was also distraught at the tragedy.

He said: I used to live just seconds away from where the Grenfell Tower incident occurred, I went there last night just to chat to some friends and others who live adjacent, and indeed some of the families in the immediate area.

'I also know a local headteacher who is having to teach children today in the knowledge there are people he has loved and cared for who are still missing.

So of course I feel absolutely distraught at whats happened, and I also think you are right that people need not just this money but they also need a reassurance that their lives are going to be.
ISIS supporters are using the Finsbury Park terror attack to call for further atrocities against the West, it has emerged.

A string of sick messages apparently sent between fanatics on Whatsapp urges supporters to 'wake up to the war', claiming their loved ones 'could be killed' if action is not taken.

The ream of messages also questioned why the suspect - who they described as being non Muslim - had been not shot by police.

ISIS supporters are using the Finsbury Park terror attack to call for further atrocities against the West (pictured)

Earlier this month, three extremists who launched a terror attack on London Bridge were killed by officers.

The texts, reported by Terrorism analyst Michael Smith, were sent to a WhatsApp group called 'War news/ Ummah [community] news' - which has more than 200 members - after this morning's terror attack in north London.

It read: 'Oh Muslims you need to wake up the war is starting now in your own streets outside your own Masajids.

'Your elders could be killed, your sisters could be attacked.'

It continued: 'Oh Muslimeen when your brothers took revenge on the crusader nationals for the slaughter they are carrying out on the Muslims, they were shot on site by the the British Police.

'Then how come the Police never shot a Kaafir [non-believer].'

The ream of messages also questioned why the suspect (left and right) - who they described as being non Muslim - had not been shot by police

A white van (pictured) mounted the pavement and careered into a group of Good Samaritan Muslims outside Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, this morning

The incident took place just before 1am last night when a white van mounted the pavement and careered into a group of Good Samaritan Muslims outside Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London.

The group, who had just left prayers at the mosque, were tending to an elderly man who had fainted nearby when the attack took place.

The elderly man has been confirmed as dead, while eight others are said to be 'seriously injured'.

Scotland Yard has said they are treating the attack as a terrorist incident. A 48-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder after being apprehended by members of the public.
Laquita Lewis, 34, has been charged with capital murder after the body of her four-year-old daughter was found stabbed in a Houston apartment

A Texas mother has been charged with capital murder for allegedly stabbing her four-year-old daughter to death.

Laquita Lewis, 34, was arrested on Sunday after police found the body of her daughter Fredricka Allen at Timberwalk Apartments, a residential complex in northwest Houston, at 9pm.

They believe she died three hours earlier and had been left in the home by her mother.

At around 6pm, Lewis was involved in a car accident and was taken to hospital in an ambulance. Once there, she sent text messages to relatives suggesting that she had hurt the girl.

Harris County Sheriff's Officers described the discovery of Fredricka's body as 'horrific'.

It's not yet clear when Lewis stabbed the child but sources told KHOU that she carried out the killing in an angry rage after a fight with her boyfriend who has not been named.

Lewis now faces execution if she is convicted. She is due to appear before a judge in Harris County on Monday.

Despite reportedly living in a property in Timberwalk Homes, Lewis's name is not registered to any address there.

The complex includes a communal swimming pool and gym and 1-bedroom apartments cost upwards of $600 a month.

Her name is attached to a less polished property a 10 minute walk away.

No one from Timberwalk Apartments was available on Monday morning to confirm how long the family had been living there or if police had previously been called to the address.
Residents of Grenfell Tower and the surrounding housing blocks have hit out at the chaotic response to the fire as some still struggle to find help.

More than 400 people lived in the 24-storey block which was destroyed by a blaze last Tuesday night, with the official death toll today rising to 79.

Days after they were made homeless, victims have been promised more than 5,000 while officials search for new places for them to live.

But many from both the tower itself and the surrounding area have told of confusing advice on how to get help and their misery as they struggle to find accommodation.

A boy is spoken to by Red Cross officials who have been brought in to help Grenfell Tower victims after fury at how the local council was handling the aftermath of the fire

Fire crews are working to shore up the building as part of the investigation into the blaze

Siar Naqshbandi, who lived on the third floor of the tower, said he was told he could not collect 500 he was entitled to because the council-run centre had 'run out of cash'.

He told The Times he was eventually given a 20 which was supposed to last him and his mother through the weekend.

Farhia Yusuf, who was among those evacuated from a nearby block of flats, had to sleep on a patch of grass and their home is now without hot water, heating or electricity.

She told the paper: 'We are living in darkness. People are grieving, there are so many volunteers but where are the council?'

Residents have demanded that they are re-homed in west London so they are not separated from family and friends. Some have reportedly been forced to move as far away as Preston in search for a home.

Jeneh Sesay, whose colleague Bassem Choucair and his family have not been seen since Tuesday night, told The Guardian: 'I just want to know if he is alive or if he is gone, then I need to know so I can get closure. It's painful.'

Locals look at pictures of the missing put up in an underpass next to the tower

Residents have been left furious at the lack of help and support offered in the wake of the fire

A Grenfell Tower taskforce has now been set up to take control of the situation from the local council, who were heavily criticised for their lack of action in the wake of the fire.

Eleanor Kelly, Chief Executive of Southwark Council, said: 'Every household whose home has been destroyed as a result of the fire will receive a guaranteed 5,500 initial emergency payment from the 5million discretionary fund.

'This will be made up of a 500 cash payment and 5,000 delivered through DWP into bank accounts or similar in a single payment.

'The cash payment is available now  either at the Westway Centre, or from Monday, through the Post Office in Portobello Road.

'The 5,000 payment will be available from Monday and assigned key workers will assist households in accessing this.'

As well as those made homeless by the fire, residents in the surrounding streets have lost power and water in their homes

She added: 'We are currently working with those affected households to establish what their housing need is  as you can appreciate this takes time.

'By the end of Monday, 19 June, we aim to have contacted all known families affected by the fire and completed an assessment of what they need.

'The latest information we have is that 201 households have received emergency accommodation to date, of which 113 are homeless.'

Theresa May was due to chair a meeting of the taskforce on Monday afternoon after the Prime Minister said that initial support on the ground was 'not good enough'.

Asked whether Mrs May had considered resigning following criticism of her own performance, a spokesman said: 'These are incredibly challenging times, with a couple of terrible incidents in a week and she is leading the country through this difficult time.'

A task force has now been brought in to deal with those affected by last Tuesday night's fire

Following reports that some families had been offered alternative accommodation as far away as Preston, a Number 10 spokeswoman said the PM stood by her promise that all those affected will be rehoused within three weeks either in Kensington & Chelsea or a neighbouring borough, unless they want to move elsewhere.

It is understood that some families have asked to be rehoused outside the area in order to be near relatives.

The Downing Street spokeswoman rejected Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's call for empty homes near the fire scene to be requisitioned to house families, saying: 'We do not support proposals to seize private property. Our focus is on rehousing people as soon as we can.'
The US has warned Russia that it will not back down after Moscow threatened to target American and coalition planes and drones in western Syria.

That came after the US shot down a Russia-allied Syrian fighter bomber on Sunday afternoon; the plane had dropped bombs near US-allied Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

'We do not seek conflict with any party in Syria other than ISIS, but we will not hesitate to defend ourselves or our partners if threatened,' Captain Jeff Davis told Fox News.

Scroll down for video

Captain Jeff Davis (pictured on Monday) has warned Russia that the US will 'not hesitate' to defend itself after Moscow said it would target coalition planes and drones in Syria

A US F/A-18E Super Hornet (file photo) shot down a Russia-backed Syrian SU-22 plane over Ja'Din, south of Tabqa, on Sunday afternoon, starting the period of tensions

Russia is now vowing to shoot down all coalition planes and drones west of the Euphrates with its advanced 'Growler' missile system - which covers most of the country

Moscow had said it would target any and all planes and drones flying west of the River Euphrates.

It also said a communication line between the countries that was intended to help co-ordinate flights to avoid mid-air collisions had also been shut down.

But speaking at a press conference on Monday, Davis said the countries were still speaking to each other about their operations.

'I'm confident that we are still communicating between our operations center and the Russia federation operations center,' he said.

'And I'm also confident that our forces have the capability to take care of themselves.'

Department of Defense spokesperson Major Adrian JT Rankine-Galloway promised that coalition aircraft would not be cowed by Russia's threats.

He said they would continue conducting 'operations throughout Syria, targeting ISIS forces and providing air support for Coalition partner forces on the ground.'

'As a result of recent encounters involving pro-Syrian Regime and Russian forces, we have taken prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria so as to continue targeting ISIS forces while ensuring the safety of our aircrew given known threats in the battlespace,' he said.

The area west of the Euphrates - as well as much of the country - is covered by Russia's 'Growler' anti-aircraft defense system, which has a range of 250 miles and can hit targets up to an altitude of 90,000 feet.

The system has been deployed on the Latakia Airbase on the Syrian coast; Russia has been providing air cover for Assad's troops since 2015.

The US fighter jet was defending Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF; seen in file photo on June 14); the SU-22 had dropped bombs near them, the Pentagon said

The tensions developed after a US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Air Force SU-22 on Sunday afternoon.

The SU-22 had dropped bombs near SDF troops and ignored warnings and a 'show of force' prior to being shot down, the Pentagon said.

Earlier Monday the Russian defense ministry had condemned the US for shooting down the Syrian plane.

'The shooting down of a Syrian Air Force jet in Syria's airspace is a cynical violation of Syrias sovereignty,' it said.

'The US' repeated combat operations under the guise of "combating terrorism" against the legitimate armed forces of a UN member-country are a flagrant violation of international law and an actual military aggression against the Syrian Arab Republic.'

The ministry said it views the incident as Washington's 'deliberate failure to make good on its commitments' under the de-confliction deal.

Russia claimed that the US did not use a private communication line between the countries prior to shooting down the bomber, and that the line had been shut down.

Davies' comments on Monday mean it is now not clear whether the line is truly cut - and if so how long the shut-down will last.

The channel has been shut down before - including in April, when President Trump ordered the bombing of a Syrian air base in response to the use of chemical weapons by President Bashar Al-Assad.

If Russia has withdrawn from the line altogether the chances of conflict in the air increase dramatically.

The Pentagon admitted it shot down the Syrian jet after it ignored a show of force and a warning against attacking US-supported ground troops near Ja'Din, south of Tabqa on Sunday afternoon.

The Syrian jet had dropped bombs near members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) - a US-allied group of Turkish and Kurdish forces working with the US.

Russia's deputy foreign minister, Sergei Ryabkov, on Monday condemned the US for shooting down the SU-22, describing it as an act of aggression.

'This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law,' Ryabkov told journalists in Moscow, according to the TASS state news agency. 'What is this if not an act of aggression?'

Russia has already deployed the S-400 Growler (pictured) air defense system in Syria; it also cut a communications line with the US that was intended to avoid air collisions

The Growler has been deployed to Latakia Airbase on the coast and covers most of Syria. The system has a range of 250 miles and can hit targets up to an altitude of 90,000 feet

Pro-Assad forces attacked the SDF at around 4:30 pm, local time, injuring several soldiers and forcing them to leave Ja'Din, the Pentagon says.

The attack prompted the SDF to call the Russian army to stop firing and 'de-escalate' the shooting. It also said it would defend itself from Syrian planes if needed.

'Following the Pro-Syrian forces attack, the coalition contacted its Russian counterparts by telephone via an established "de-confliction line" to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing,' said a statement from US-led coalition fighting ISIS, Operation Inherent Resolve.

'At 6:43 p.m., a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of Tabqah and, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet.'

The Syrian government issued a statement after its military plane was shot down, accusing the United States army of supporting terrorism.

'This flagrant violation shows there is no doubt of the fact that the American stance supports terrorism,' the regime said in its statement.

'It exposes the devious intentions of America in running terrorism and investing in it in order to pursue its Zionist-American project in the region.'

The pilot manning the aircraft flying was hit, according to the Syrian army, but his condition is unknown.

The Pentagon said the Syrian regime jet was bombing its partners south of Raqqa; US and Russian forces have clashed in recent weeks since both announced plans to retake Raqqa

The United States Army reiterated in its statement that its sole purpose was to defeat ISIS and not to fight with the regime.

The statement said: 'The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat.

'The Coalition presence in Syria addresses the imminent threat ISIS in Syria poses globally.

'The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated.'

Both sides have been competing over who will reclaim Raqqa, the ISIS capital. The SDF announced just two weeks ago that it was launching its campaign to capture the town, and only a week later, the Syrian regime also said it was beginning its offense.

The US-led coalition as well as the pro-Assad regime have had shoot outs and launched airstrikes against each other in recent weeks.

Russian foreign minister Sergey V Lavrov initially appeared to be unaware of the government's decision when speaking in Beijing on Monday.

He said that he hoped the US and all other countries involved in the Syrian conflict would 'coordinate their actions,' the New York Times reported.

'We urge everyone to avoid acting unilaterally, to respect the sovereignty of Syria,' he said.
Police have arrested an armed 16-year-old following seven-hour stand-off, after he broke into a Massachusetts town mall and stole a gun.

SWAT teams were called out to the Square One Mall in Saugus in the early hours of Monday morning after reports of a break-in at Dick's Sporting Goods - which sells a variety of rifles and shotguns.

Sources told CBS Boston that the teen armed himself with a 'long gun' after stealing the weapon and ammo from the store.

Cops closed off the area and warned the public to stay away as the 'armed and dangerous' teen holed up inside the mall. SWAT and police teams, as well as several K9 units, were sent in after him but the teen had fled.

He was finally apprehended, 13 miles away in the town of Everett at around 11.30am - some seven hours since the saga began.

Police have arrested an armed 16-year-old following seven-hour stand-off, after he broke into a Massachusetts town mall and stole a gun (SWAT teams storm the mall on Monday morning)

SWAT teams were called out to the Square One Mall in Saugus in the early hours of Monday morning after reports of a break-in at Dick's Sporting Goods - which sells a variety of rifles and shotguns

Police were accompanied by K9 units as they searched the Square One Mall in Saugus for the suspect

The teen reportedly armed himself with a 'long gun' after stealing the weapon and ammo from Dick's Sporting Goods (police block the entrance to the mall)

Cops had closed off the area and warned the public to stay away as the 'armed and dangerous' teen holed up inside the mall

The suspect's name has not yet been released but authorities say the Square One Mall is expected to reopen soon.

Dick's Sporting Goods will remain shut today for a police investigation.

SWAT vehicles, local cops and a police helicopter were spotted outside the mall, as all the entrances to the building were blocked off, during the stand-off.

Mall employees were also forced to wait around outside while police tackled the armed burglar.

Mall employees were also forced to wait around outside while police tackled the armed burglar

Saugus police had been called out to the Square One Mall at around 4.30am after reports of a break-in at Dick's

Police surrounded the mall in Saugus, Massachusetts after reports of an armed man holed up inside

A SWAT team, pictured preparing to enter the building, found the teen had already fled

'Square One Mall in Saugus will have a delayed opening due to the active and ongoing investigation onsite,' a statement from the mall read earlier this morning.

Saugus police had been called out to the Square One Mall at around 4.30am after reports of a break-in at Dick's.

So far, there have been no reports of any injuries.

'I'm just hoping no one gets hurt and this all calms down,' mall worker Chandler Laguerre said during the incident.
Jay Sekulow, a lawyer for Donald Trump, cleared the air this morning and said the president is not under investigation by the special counsel for firing James Comey, after mistakenly claiming Sunday that Trump was a target.

Sekulow accidentally told Fox News Sunday host Chris Wallace that Trump 'was being investigated by the Department of Justice.'

Wallace confronted him with the error and the Trump lawyer said he was stating the 'legal theory' of the president's response on Twitter to a Washington Post article claiming he was a focus of the probe.

'I went back and watched the tape and he predicated his entire statement, his very first question to me, have you been notified of an investigation. And the answer, as I said yesterday, is no,' Sekulow told the hosts of Fox & Friends on Monday morning.

The Trump lawyer also revealed this morning that he is not trying to manage the president's response to the allegations on Twitter.

SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO

Jay Sekulow, a lawyer for Donald Trump, cleared the air this morning and said the president is not under investigation by the special counsel for firing James Comey after mistakenly claiming Sunday that Trump was a target

He also revealed this morning that he is not trying to manage the president's response to the allegations on Twitter. Shocked, Brian Kilmeade (right) told Sekulow that as the president's legal adviser, he ought to be telling his client what he should and shouldn't say

A ballooning crisis on his hands after Trump said Friday he was the subject of a 'witch hunt' at DOJ in a tweet that confirmed he was under investigation and attacked the deputy attorney general, Sekulow appeared on four major Sunday shows to walk back the president's statements

Shocked, Brian Kilmeade told Sekulow that as the president's legal adviser, he ought to be telling his client what he should and shouldn't say.

A ballooning crisis on his hands after Trump said Friday he was the subject of a 'witch hunt' at DOJ in a tweet that confirmed he was under investigation and attacked the deputy attorney general, Sekulow appeared on four major Sunday shows to walk back the president's statements.

Sekulow said over and over again that Trump is not being investigated but slipped up in his interview with Wallace and said that he is.

He cleaned up his remarks and said that Trump is not under investigation as soon as it happened. The admission created lingering doubt about the president's status, though, and Sekulow returned to Fox on Monday morning to try again.

'What we know is that James Comey, when he testified, confirmed that, he told the president on three separate occasions he was not under investigation regarding this Russian probe,' Sekulow said.

The conservative attorney who serves as chief counsel for the American Center for Law & Justice has emerged as the face of the Trump defense team that's led by one of the president's longtime lawyers, Marc Kasowitz.

Sekulow has affirmatively stated that the president has not been notified by the special counsel that he's being probed. It is his legal team's belief, therefore, that there has been no change in the status quo.

The president's fired FBI director testified earlier this month that Trump was not being investigated at the time he was dismissed. He left DOJ more than a month ago on May 9, however, and would not know if the angle of the investigation had shifted.

A Washington Post article claimed last week that Trump had come under scrutiny by Bob Mueller, the special counsel DOJ brought in to oversee the Russia case, because of Comey's firing.

Trump appeared to confirm the Post's reporting Friday when he said in a tweet: 'I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt'.

Sekulow insisted Sunday on CNN, CBS, and NBC that Trump is not being probed, despite the tweet.

'The president is not a subject or target of an investigation. That tweet was in response to a Washington Post story that ran with five unnamed sources, without identifying the agencies they represented, saying that the special counsel had broadened out his investigation to include the president,' he told Jake Tapper of State of the Union. 'Weve had no indication of that.'

He told Chuck Todd on Meet the Press, 'I think you're reading more to the tweet than what's there.

'The president sent out that tweet directly in response to The Washington Post story, with the five, anonymous, unnamed sources from unnamed agencies. So that's why he put that in the tweet.'

Host after host pushed Sekulow to explain why Trump said he was under investigation if he's not.

On Fox, Wallace also asked him to say whether the president thinks the deputy attorney general, Rod Rosenstein, has done anything wrong.

Rosenstein was the one who told Trump in a memo to fire Comey. The special counsel reports to him. Trump's assault on Friday did not name Rosenstein but was clearly directed at the DOJ official.

In his response to Wallace, Sekulow said that Trump was under investigation.

'So here's the constitutional threshold question, Chris. The president takes action based on numerous events, including recommendations from his attorney general and the deputy attorney generals office. He takes the action that they also, by the way, recommended.

'And now he's being investigated by the Department of Justice because the special counsel under the special counsel relations reports still to the Department of Justice,' Sekulow said. 'Not an independent counsel.

'So he's being investigated for taking the action that the attorney general and deputy attorney general recommended him to take by the agency who recommended the termination. So that's the constitutional threshold question here.'

Trump appeared to confirm a report that he was under investigation on Friday with this tweet

Wallace interjected at the end of the lengthy statement to point out the inconsistency in his statements.

'First of all, youve now said that he is getting investigated after saying that you didnt.'

Sekulow replied, 'No, he's not being investigated!'

'The context of the tweet, I just gave you the legal theory, Chris, of how the Constitution works. If, in fact, it was correct that the president was being investigated, he would be investigating for taking action that an agency told him to take,' Sekulow explained. 'So that is protected under the Constitution as his article one power. That's all I said.'

Wallace pointed out the possibility that Trump is being probed but hasn't been told yet, which Sekulow had to admit could be the case.

'I cant read the minds of the special prosecutor,' he stated. 'But I have not been notified. No one has been notified that he is.'

New Day host Chris Cuomo made a similar point on Monday on CNN. 'Just because you haven't been notified doesn't mean you're not under investigation,' Cuomo told Sekulow in an interview on the network after the lawyer's appearance on Fox & Friends. 'There is no duty to inform you.'

Sekulow said that's true. 'But you know how it works in Washington,' he told Cuomo. 'If you were a target, if you were being investigated, you would be told really quickly into the investigation.'

Legal experts and lawmakers who support the president have advised him publicly to stop tweeting about the probe but the president has refused to listen.

Sekulow argued on Monday that Trump's tweeting will become a textbook example 'of the most successful utilization of social media platforms and communication in our lifetimes.

Sekulow insisted Sunday on CNN,hat Trump is not being probed, despite the tweet and his claim on Fox that Trump was being investigated. 'The president is not a subject or target of an investigation,' he said on CNN

'So the president has an ability to communicate with a broad swath of the American people, 107 million, and look, I'm a lawyer, I don't tell him what to write or not write. I'm his lawyer. He made a statement.'

Kilmeade interrupted to ask why Sekulow wouldn't tell the president what not to say.

'But why why wouldn't you? Why wouldn't you, Jay? You're his lawyer. You should be telling him what to - every client should get legal advice when so much is on the line,' the Fox & Friends host said.

Sekulow declined to say what legal advice he had given to the president and defended his ill-informed tweet about the article that claimed he was under investigation in the first place.

'This becomes a headline in the Washington Post. So the president responded,' he said.

Fox & Friends host Ainsley Earhardt told Sekulow that he was right - and Trump needed to respond to the obstruction of justice allegations.
A group of student drivers from China have chosen to take lessons on a sixth-floor rooftop - with potential risks of plunging down the building if they make a wrong turn.

Pictures have emerged online showing students practising driving at the school some located 20 metres (66 feet) above the ground in Hubei Province.

The school has apparently violated the local regulations. Authority said they would shut it down if the school fails to provide documents.

The rooftop driving school is located 20 metres (66ft) above ground in Zhongshan Plaza, China

A recent news report from Hubei Television shows the Hankou branch of Min Tao Driving School merely bounded by billboards despite being situated on the sixth floor of Zhongshan Plaza in Wuhan.

Instructors give lessons on the rooftop where a S-curve and parking lots are marked on the ground.

A manager of the driving school said he had no concerns over the safety issues.

The manager told Hubei Television: 'This place used to be a car park, so it doesn't pose a danger.'

He added most of the students were office workers around the area.

One student was asked if he had ever worried about his safety.

He replied: 'It's alright. The (school's) location is very convenient and easy to reach.'

The school has apparently violated the regulations and could face penalty from the authority

The report stated that according to local laws and regulations, driving schools in Wuhan city has to be located in areas outside the Third Ring Road, a 30-minute-ride from city centre.

All driving schools are required to occupy an area over 10,000 square metres (110,000 square feet) in size .

Inspectors from the Department of Transport told Hubei Television that the driving school 'has seriously violated the regulations'.

'There is a high risk of danger and new learners might crash into the billboards and fall down from the building,' the inspector said.

The department would look into the matter and determine whether or not Min Tao Driving School had violated the regulations.

The authority said it would close the school if it's deemed illegal.
Charlotte Ponce (pictured above on June 14) underwent surgery on Thursday to reconstruct her face, which was left disfigured from a raccoon attack as a baby

A 14-year-old girl who was left disfigured when a raccoon ate part of her face as a baby had reconstructive surgery last week which will hopefully give her the chance to wear earrings.

Charlotte Ponce has undergone more than a dozen surgeries since her family's pet raccoon attacked her as a baby.

It's believed that the raccoon attacked because it had been attracted to some milk that had spilled on Charlotte's face from a bottle left propped in her mouth.

Thursday's surgery was Charlotte's first as a teenager and her eighth under pediatric plastic surgeon Dr. Koongkirt Chaiyaste.

'She's a fighter,' Chaiyasate told the Detroit Free-Press. 'She's never cried. With every surgery, she's never complained.'

The procedure lasted about 90 minutes, during which Dr. Chaiyaste took tissue from her stomach and put it behind her ear to make it more projected.

He also used stomach tissue to give her upper lip and right cheek more fullness.

He used a small piece of tissue from her left ear to enlarge one nostril, and performed scar revision on her lips.

Ponce's adopted father Tim kisses her forehead as she prepares to go in for surgery last Thursday

Thursday's facial reconstructive surgery was her eighth with Dr. Kongkrite Chaiyasate (pictured together above)

During the 90-minute procedure, the doctor made changes to Ponce's ear, nose, cheek and lips

'He's like an artist,' Charlotte's great aunt Sharon Ponce said. Sharon and her husband Tim gained adopted Charlotte and her brother after their biological parents lost custody over the raccoon incident.

After her last surgery in 2014, Charlotte was hoping that she would be able to wear earrings. Dr. Chiyaste used a tiny piece of tubing to fashion an earring in her right earlobe but that eventually tore.

After Thursday's surgery though, Dr. Chiyaste believes Charlotte will finally be able to pierce her ears. She has about 50 earrings at home waiting to wear.

When Charlotte first became his patient in 2012, Dr. Chaiyaste says she would avoid making eye contact with him. But five years later, he says she's become more outgoing.

Charlotte's face was eaten off by a pet raccoon, which was attracted to some milk that had split on her face from a bottle left in her crib at three months old. She is seen left before the attack and right as a child after it

Charlotte is pictured above with her great-aunt Sharon, great-uncle Tim and brother Marshall. Sharon and Tim gained custody of Charlotte and Marshall after their biological parents lost custody of them after the raccoon attack

Dr. Chaiyaste, who won an award in 2014 for his work on Charlotte, says that she could choose to get future procedures but they would likely just be fine-tuning.

Insurance has covered the cost of her surgeries.

Charlotte's family say she has a hard time socializing and struggles with depression, but has has a small group of friends in middle school.

She hopes to become a biomedical engineer when she grows up so she can make prosthetic devices for people.

Charlotte's last surgery involved growing tissue on her arm that was then transplanted to make an ear
Joe Storey, 27, from Norwich, was sentenced to life in prison for murdering Kerri McAuley in the horrific attack which left her skull 'like a mosaic' of bone fragments

The mother of a murdered mother-of-two described how she 'fell to her knees' as she found her daughter's blood-soaked body and knew at once her 'monster' ex-boyfriend had killed her.

Joe Storey, 27, from Norwich, was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 24 years for murdering Kerri McAuley in the horrific attack which left her skull 'like a mosaic' of bone fragments.

Her mother, Lesley, said there was blood all over the walls while 32-year-old Kerri's head was drenched in blood when she came across the horrific scene in her daughter's home.

And she branded evil Storey, who had a history of beating up and abusing his girlfriends, a 'monster' for so cruelly killing Kerri and subjecting her to pure terror.

In her own searingly powerful, gut-wrenching words, shattered Lesley recalled: 'I remember arriving at Kerri's home, somewhere she and her children should have been safe and, call it a mother's instinct, knowing that there was something wrong.

'Walking into the hallway, seeing the blood - the bright red smears all over the pale walls - then hearing Rory, my son, scream and looking down to see my beautiful baby girl lying on the floor, her head hanging out of the doorway into the hallway.

'I couldn't see her face underneath her hair which was so matted and covered in blood.

'I fell to my knees and as I tried to move her hair off her face that's when I felt her.'

The mother-of-two, 32, was killed weeks after she described feeling 'stronger than ever' having left Storey.

The mother-of-two, 32, pictured with Storey prior to their split, was killed weeks after she described feeling 'stronger than ever' having left him

A jury heard the brave mother told friends she was 'on the mend' after finding the courage to walk away from her 18-month on-off relationship with violent Storey.

She publicly posted graphic pictures of her injuries caused by Storey, saying he had left her with 'a broken cheek bone and a broken heart'.

But just weeks later, Ms McAuley was bludgeoned to death in her flat after falling victim to Storey's temper for the final time.

Jurors took just an hour to find Storey unanimously guilty of murdering her on January 7 this year.

During the two-week trial, Norwich Crown Court heard how Ms McAuley suffered a total of 19 injuries to her head and neck.

She was found with a tie wrapped around her neck following the 'brutal and sustained attack'.

Following the mother's tragic death, neighbours described hearing her 'screaming for help' at the flat she shared with her two young sons Blake and Riley in Norwich.

It is understood the pair had split in November 2016, shortly after they returned from a romantic break to Rome.

During the trip, the pair posted selfies of themselves in front of the Trevi Fountain and a video of them enjoying a candle-lit meal in an Italian square.

It is thought the city break was a gift from Storey who also lavished Ms McAuley with champagne, flowers and perfume.

Less than a fortnight after the split, Ms McAuley appeared to be enjoying the single life as she visited a nail bar with a friend.

She publicly wrote: 'Getting back to pretty. Onwards and upwards.'

But a month later, the tragic supermarket worker was found brutally murdered.

Prosecutor Simon Spence told the jury that the brutal and sustained attack was 'no ordinary domestic assault'.

He said: 'One only has to look at the extent of the head injuries Kerri sustained to see what he intended.

She publicly posted graphic pictures of her injuries caused by Storey, saying he had left her with 'a broken cheek bone and a broken heart'

She was found with a tie wrapped around her neck following the 'brutal and sustained attack'

'She had 19 separate injuries to her face and head. Bruising to her head and a small bone in her neck was fractured.

'Kerri had been assaulted in the lounge, had gone into the bathroom while injured. She had also exhaled blood by the front door. Kerri was trying to escape.'

Mr Spence told the jury how Storey had previously assaulted Ms McAuley on at least two other occasions before her death.

He once headbutted her during a night out and broke her jaw on other occasion, leaving her hospitalised.

The mother's body was discovered at her flat when her ex-partner and the father of her two boys became concerned he could not contact her

Following one brutal attack in 2016, Ms McAuley shared pictures of her bruised face on Facebook.

She wrote: 'My ex, who claims he loves me, beat and suffocated me until I almost passed out.

'It has left me with a broken cheek and a broken heart. It's out there now and maybe I can now move on.'

On the night of her death, the pair went bowling and out for dinner before drinking at pubs in Norwich.

They were spotted arguing before they returned to Ms McAuley's flat where bloodied footprints and splatters were later found.

The mother's body was discovered at her flat when her ex-partner and the father of her two boys became concerned he could not contact her.

He contacted her mother Lesley used her spare key to let herself in but found her daughter lifeless on the floor alongside a bloodied mattress.

Mr Spence described this as 'a sight that will no doubt haunt them for the rest of their lives.'

Pathologist Ben Smith described Kerri's skull as 'almost a mosaic of small fractured pieces of bone'.

He told the jury: 'Such injuries can result from blunt force trauma as may occur from any punches, kicks, or stamping actions. It would be the hardest punch you could deliver, but repeatedly, given the number of injuries.

The court heard 'literally thousands' of text messages were found on Storey's phone which 'showed a relationship in which Kerri was was trying to keep away from the defendant'

'Her death may have been the result of a combination of factors - the amount of blood she was losing from the facial injuries, but also that was going into her stomach and airways.'

Police tracked Storey to his friend's flat where they arrested him on suspicion of murder after finding him wearing a shirt which was 'covered with blood'

During the trial, Storey claimed he got Ms McAuley's blood on his face when he was trying to help her through to the bathroom.

A jury heard the brave mother told friends she was 'on the mend' after finding the courage to walk away from her 18-month on-off relationship with violent Storey

He said he thought she was alive when he left the flat and said: 'I was just panicking I did not know what to do.

'I am so ashamed. I am so upset and disgusted with what I have done.We were in love and planning a future.'

The court heard 'literally thousands' of text messages were found on Storey's phone which 'showed a relationship in which Kerri was was trying to keep away from the defendant.'

In one sent by Ms McAuley to Storey, she wrote: 'I deserve far better than you, a dirty, lying cheat of a woman beater. You're a coward.

'You've broken my face. I could have another you in a heart-beat, one that doesn't break my bones.

'There is only so many beatings a girl can take before they walk away.'

She also told Storey she had 'put up with so much' and insisted there was 'only so much I can take' adding 'I feel broken inside'.

During the exchanges Storey insisted he was 'so, so sorry' for occasions he had 'Just flipped' and 'lost it'.

He added: 'I just flipped and lost it. I will never kill you, will I'.

Storey nodded to the judge as the sentence was read out. Judge Holt said: 'You preyed on a warm-hearted and kind woman.

'She was posting pictures of her injured face on Facebook for all to see but you pressed your way back into her life. It's a deeply sad feature of this case.'
Talks between the Conservatives and DUP on building a Commons majority have still not reached a deal, two days before the Queen's Speech.

No 10 confirmed today that negotiations were still ongoing between the political parties as Theresa May fights on after the general election.

Significantly the talks do not involve civil servants - a clear signal the final agreement will be a fragile political arrangement and not a formal deal.

The deal will be in stark contrast to the full coalition agreed by the Tories and Liberal Democrats in 2010 which despite political rows was stable for five years.

No 10 confirmed today that negotiations were still ongoing between the political parties as Theresa May (pictured today in Finsbury Park) fights on after the general election

DUP leader Arlene Foster and her Westminster chief Nigel Dodds attended talks at No 10 on the possibility of a deal last week (pictured)

The Prime Minister's official spokeswoman today said the Queen's Speech was going ahead on Wednesday regardless.

She said: 'The talks are on going at a political level today - we will publish a deal when it is done.

'If and when a deal is done, we will publish it.'

It emerged last week that just 27 per cent of the public support Mrs May's plan to strike a deal with Northern Ireland's DUP to ensure she can stay in power.

TORY-DUP DEAL: HOW WILL A POLITICAL DEAL WORK? No 10 today revealed the Tory-DUP talks are currently between the parties directly and not being conducted via the civil service. This is important because it means any agreement will be based on no more than a promise from the DUP to keep Theresa May in power. It means Mrs May will officially be operating a minority government - meaning she can only win votes where all MPs attend if the DUP choose to support her. The agreement will be very different to that struck in 2010 between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. That resulted in a full coalition, a programme for government and was signed off by officials. Advertisement

While few in Westminster believe the deal will not eventually be struck, news the public already loath the idea will further rock the already ailing prime minister.

Almost half of voters think poorly of the DUP, while only 8 per cent of the public have a favourable view, according to YouGov research. More than a third don't know.

But despite Downing Street announcing an agreement more than a week ago, no deal has yet been struck despite hours of meetings in London and Belfast.

The DUP's Westminster leader Nigel Dodds last week threw further doubt on the whole process by insisting there was 'no deadline'.

On Friday, a senior Conservative source said there was a 'steady dialogue ongoing' with the DUP on a deal to prop up a minority Tory administration.

It is understood there is 'broad agreement' on the principles of the Queen's Speech, setting out the Government's legislative programme for the coming year.

The Tories have made clear since last week's election that their discussions with the DUP revolve around assurances of support in key Commons votes, rather than a full coalition.

With her tally of Conservative MPs slashed to 317 in last week's poll, Mrs May needs the backing of the DUP's 10 members to reach the 320 required for a working majority in the Commons.

A Tory source said: 'Both parties are committed to strengthening the Union, combating terrorism, delivering Brexit and delivering prosperity across the whole country.'
A two-year-old boy is fighting for his life at a Texas hospital as he battles an E.coli infection that's left him life support.

Landon Huston started showing symptoms of a stomach-type virus a few days after he and his parents returned to their home in Ennis from a trip to Oklahoma.

A fecal test confirmed that he had an E. coli infection and his parents rushed him to the Children's Medical Center in Dallas for treatment.

Sadly, the infection led to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), which is the abnormal destruction of red blood cells that leads to kidney failure.

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Heartbreaking: Landon Huston (above) is fighting for his life at a Dallas hospital as he battles an E.coli infection that's left him life support

The two-year-old boy started showing symptoms of a stomach-type virus a few days after he and his parents returned to their home in Ennis from a trip to Oklahoma

Landon underwent two surgeries and was placed on life support over the weekend.

His mother, Lindsey Montgomery, shared in a Facebook post Sunday evening he is 'improving.'

'Ventilator still in but he's breathing on his own! Still got a long journey ahead of us. But looking more positive!' she wrote in the post.

'We cant hold him. We can't love on him. All we can do is just stand at the bedside,' she told WFAA.

The little boy's parents and doctors are unsure of where he could have became infected with the potentially deadly bacteria.

A fecal test confirmed that he had an E. coli infection and his parents rushed him to the Children's Medical Center in Dallas for treatment. The infection led to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, which is the abnormal destruction of red blood cells that leads to kidney failure

Landon (pictured left with his father John) underwent two surgeries and was placed on life support over the weekend. His mother, Lindsey Montgomery (pictured right with John), shared in a Facebook post Sunday evening he is 'improving.'

E.coli is found in the intestines of animals and humans, as an infection can occur if someone comes in contact with the feces. An infection can also occur by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.

'Most parents like us had no idea you know the dangers of something like this. And it's everywhere. E. coli is something that's everywhere,' the boy's mother said.

Montgomery and the boy's father, John Huston, are both hoping he is able to fully recover from the infection.

'I have faith he's gonna come out on top,' his father said.

His parents have created a GoFundMe to help raise money for Landon's hospital expenses.

They have raised over $2,000 towards their $3,000 goal.

'We (are) asking for your help with the unexpected expenses that have come up to get them through this time,' a message on the page reads.

'Anything would help and if (you're) not able to please pray for this family and Landon.'
Eurocrats in Brussels were today told they can go home early if they get too hot - despite tough Brexit negotiations kicking off.

Brexit Secretary David Davis and his officials have finally sat down with the EU's negotiating team in Brussels to begin the crunch talks just as Europe is gripped by a heatwave.

But just as the political talks are set to heat up, officials have been told they can leave early if office temperatures hit 30C.

Brexit Secretary David Davis and the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier greet each other today in Brussels where they are starting Brexit negotiations just as Europe is gripped by a heatwave

In a notice circulated to staff and posted online today, the EU's HR departments also advises staff to turn the lights off to keep cool.

And they suggest employees should ditch their suits and ties and opt for loose-fitting clothes to cope with the heatwave.

The circular points out that staff should open windows, drink lots of water and 'not to drink alcohol' during the hot weather.

While they suggest Eurocrats should not indulge in a lavish lunches and instead opt to 'eat light meals' while the mercury is soaring.

The notice states: 'You are reminded that during very hot weather, and more specifically when the offices temperature exceeds 30C, directors and heads of unit may allow their staff who so wish to eave early, provided that the hours not worked are subsequently made up.'

In a notice to staff posted online, the EU's HR department told employees they can go home early if they get too hot in the heatwave - depsite formal Brexit negotiations kicking off today

It is unclear if any EU staff took up the offer to clock off early, and if it has any impact on the Brexit negotiations.

Mr Davis today said there is 'more that unites us than divides us' as he arrived in Brussels for the first round of official Brexit talks.

The Brexit Secretary was greeted by the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier as hte pair went face to face in the official talks for the first time.

Mr Davis said Britain is determined to build a 'strong and special partnership' with the EU.

While Mr Barnier said it is vital to tackle the 'uncertainties' of Brexit - resolving Britain's Brexit bill, the rights of citizens and the Irish border.

The first round of talks will set the agenda for the next 18 months as Britain and Europe wrestle with the future.

The clock is ticking as the deal to unravel 45 years of British membership must be done by March 29, 2019, under EU treaty rules.


With one day left before suburban Atlanta voters head to the polls, President Trump took to Twitter several times to encourage Georgia voters to choose Karen Handel  though didn't always get her name right.

'Karen Handle's opponent in #GA06can't even vote in the district he wants to represent....,' Trump tweeted at first, misspelling her last name.

He corrected it and finished his thought: 'because he doesn't even live there! He wants to raise taxes and kill healthcare. On Tuesday, #VoteKarenHandel,' the president prescribed.

In the early a.m., Trump didn't bother spelling out the contender's last name.

'The Dems want to stop tax cuts, good healthcare and Border Security.Their ObamaCare is dead with 100% increases in P's. Vote now for Karen H,' he wrote Monday morning.

On Tuesday's ballot, Handel will be up against Democrat Jon Ossoff, as the two vie for the seat formerly occupied by Trump's Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price.

Republicans have tried labeling Ossoff a 'carpetbagger' because he doesn't currently live in the district, which is where he grew up, having moved to be closer to his girlfriend's university, Emory.

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President Trump inserted himself into George's special election run-off, being held Tuesday, encouraging voters to elect Republican candidate Karen Handel

A screenshot shows that President Trump misfired in one of his tweets promoting Karen Handel, spelling her last name 'Handle'

President Donald Trump eventually got the spelling of Republican Congressional candidate Karen Handel's name right

President Trump knocked Democrat Jon Ossoff for not currently living in the sixth Congressional District. Ossoff grew up in the district

President Trump dashed off this tweet early Monday morning, showing support for House candidate Karen Handel, a Republican from Georgia

On Tuesday, voters will choose between Republican Karen Handel (left) and Democrat Jon Ossoff (right) in a run-off election that is being used as a barometer for 2018

Georgia's 6th Congressional District had been solidly red for years, flipping from Democrat to Republican in 1978, with the election of Rep. Newt Gingrich, who later went on to be House speaker.

But changing demographics in the South and a crowded Republican field led to Ossoff garnering the most votes when the first ballots were cast in this race.

Because the Democrat didn't get to 50 percent in April, however, he now has to face Handel on Tuesday in a run-off.

She's since concentrated Republican support.

He's still ahead in the polls, but by less than most survey's margin of error.

The Real Clear Politics Polling average gives Ossoff an advantage of 2.6 points.

With a price tag of more than $50 million, both parties are using the House seat as a barometer to gauge their political power in the age of Trump.

The demoralized Democrats, who were supposed to retain the White House, via Hillary Clinton's candidacy, and possibly win the Senate last November, and then accomplished neither feat, need an Ossoff win to claim momentum going into the 2018 midterms.

Winning the governors' mansions in Virginia and New Jersey this November could also help the Democrats' cause.

Republicans are concerned that a loss could show the party's weakness in the age of Trump and also make House members and Senators more reluctant to pass bills that fit the president's agenda.

On Monday, Trump was particularly concerned with tax cuts, health care and border security.

So far, tax reform has gone nowhere, health care has only passed in the House  with senators writing their own bill to repeal and replace Obamacare  and Trump's border fence has not been fully funded by the U.S. Congress.

A Republican Party chairman in Georgia's 11th Congressional District is also taking some flack by suggesting last week's Congressional baseball field shooting, which wounded House Majority Whip Steve Scalise, could benefit the party politically in the run-off race.

'I'll tell you what: I think the shooting is going to win this election for us,' GOP chairman Brad Carver told the Washington Post. 'Because moderates and independents in this district are tired of left-wing extremism.'

'I get that there's extremists on both sides, but we are not seeing them,' he added.

An outside group, Principled Leadership PAC, also produced an ad connecting Ossoff to the shooter.

'Now the unhinged left is endorsing and applauding shooting Republicans. When will it stop?' the ad asks.

Ossoff, and also Handel, spoke out against using Scalise as a political plaything.

'The man is fighting for his life,' Ossoff said, according to the Washington Examiner. 'I think it's disgraceful to politicize it and I think Secretary Handel should call for it to come down.

Handel, Georgia's former secretary of state, did.

'For any group to use the shootings this week for political or personal benefit is shameful,' said her spokeswoman Kate Constantini. 'This group should be ashamed.'
Four people have been killed and another is thought to be missing after terrorists stormed a popular holiday resort in Mali.

Dozens of people were taken hostage during the attack on Sunday night but were released on Monday after security services stormed the complex near the Malian capital of Bamako.

Mali's security Minister Salif Traore said local forces backed by French troops and UN soldiers said they rescued 36 guests and killed five men who he called terrorists.

Four people have been confirmed dead after dozens of guests taken hostage by 'terrorists' at a Mali resort were freed on Monday (pictured)

Mali's security minister said five men, who he described as terrorists, were killed during the attack - though warned others were still at large

One of the dead was a Portuguese soldier stationed at an EU training camp in the country, while another was a member of the Malian armed forces (pictured, troops at the resort)

Two more people, a French-Gambonese man and a Cameroonian, were also reported to have been killed in the attack (pictured, forensic experts at the scene)

Salif Traore, Mali's security minister, said 'this was without doubt a terrorist attack' - though no group has yet claimed responsibility

'This was without doubt a terrorist attack,' he told station Radio France International.

A Portuguese member of the EU's military training mission was among the dead according to foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.

A Malian member of the EU's delegation was also killed, Mogherini said.

Local authorities identified a third dead man as French-Gabonese while a security source said a third victim was Cameroonian.

The resort was still cordoned off by late morning on Monday as a Malian anti-terrorist squad combed the area for the missing person.

A U.N. mission helicopter was circling overhead.

Traore said the militants had some accomplices who had not been killed or detained. On Sunday night, authorities reported that two of the assailants had been killed.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

French troops and a 10,000-strong U.N. peacekeeping force have been battling to stabilise Mali, a former French colony, ever since France intervened in 2013 to push back jihadists and allied Tuareg rebels who had taken over the country's desert north a year earlier.

Al Qaeda in the Islamic Magreb and other Islamist groups have claimed attacks on Western targets in Mali and the wider West Africa region in the past.

The resort of Le Campement Kangaba boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools

In total 36 guests were rescued by security services while one person is thought to be missing (pictured, Malian troops at the scene)

Terror group Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb has carried out attacks in Mali for years, but it is not known if they are behind this latest atrocity

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after the attack and pledged France's full support for the country, Macron's office said on Monday.

'I am tired, shocked. I have no other words to say,' the resort owner Manou Morgane, a French national, told Reuters TV overnight.

'All I want to do is to see the list of my clients. I want to find them (anyone missing).'

In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.

The attack was claimed by the North African terrorist affiliate 'Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb' (AQIM).

In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.

A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months.

In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

But jihadists have mounted numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.

Malian security services kept the resort closed on Monday afternoon while they swept for the missing person and any other militants

This woman was also among those to be rescued following the dramatic operation earlier this afternoon

French soldiers stand around a United Nations vehicle following the attack, in which two people have been killed

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against all but essential travel to Bamako. For parts of Mali north of Bamako they advise against all travel.

Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists.

In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou.

AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.

In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.

The UN has a 12,000-strong force known as MINUSMA in Mali, which began operations in 2013.

It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed.

France also has 4,000 soldiers in its Bakhane force in five countries - Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso - all of which are threatened by the jihadist threat across their porous borders.
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A driver with a gun has died after ramming a police van on the Champs-Elysees in a car filled with weapons and a gas bomb.

His car burst into flames moments after impact having deliberately aimed at a line of police vans with a boot full of Kalashnikov rifles, handguns and gas bottles.

A police officer was videoed stripping clothes from the unconscious assailant to check for a suicide bomb as the assailant, who was a known extremist in France, lay dying in the street.

Witnesses in the capital said he heard shots being fired and smoke coming from the silver Renault Megane which was used by the 31-year-old perpetrator in what is being considered an attempted suicide attack, though nobody was injured.

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Police standing by as the perpetrator lies face down in the dusty sidewalk after having his clothes ripped from him

The driver sprawled on the pavement with a bomb disposal robot nearby after a police officer ripped his clothes from him

The car left abandoned on the world-famous avenue and a red canister can be seen in the middle of the road which is teeming with police officers

The 31-year-old extremist who was known to French authorities is seen here being pulled from the burning vehicles by officers

The car being searched by a member of the bomb disposal team who is seen approaching the Renault Megane with a mask

A witness in the capital said he heard shots being fired and smoke coming from one of the vehicles, thought to be this Renault Megane

French anti-terrorism prosecutors opened an inquiry today after a suspected suicide attacker was seen targeting a line of police vans which were travelling up the Champs Elysee towards the Arc de Triomphe.

'There was a sudden impact, and then a fireball,' said an investigating source. 'A gas bomb was in the car.

TERROR ATTACK THAT HAVE ROCKED PARIS AND GREAT BRITAIN The attack Monday was the latest of a string in Paris and London. Earlier Monday, a van ploughed into a crowd of Muslims near a London mosque, leaving one person dead and injuring 10 others. It was the second terror attack this month in the British capital. Two weeks ago jihadists used a van and knives to crush and stab to death eight people enjoying a night out in the British capital. Three of the victims were French. France has been consistently targeted by jihadists and remains under a state of emergency imposed after the November 2015 attacks in Paris, when Islamic State jihadists killed 130 people in a night of carnage at venues across the city. Previous major attacks targeted the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine in January 2015. In July last year, a radicalised Tunisian man killed down 86 people as he rammed a truck through a crowd watching Bastille Day fireworks in the Riviera city of Nice. Advertisement

'The man was very badly injured, and then pulled out of his damaged vehicle. He was badly injured in the collision and was taken away.

'He did not cause any injuries, but the collision was a deliberate act.'

An Interior Ministry source meanwhile said that the attacker 'is likely to have died following the attack'.

He added that 'numerous weapons were found in his car boot'.

The specialist anti-terrorism officers confirmed they had opened an inquiry into the kamikaze attack.

France's Interior Minister Gerard Collomb called the incident an attempted attack and said: 'Security forces have been targeted in France once again'.

The weapons and explosives found in the vehicle 'could potentially blow this car up,' he added.

Interior ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said bomb disposal experts were on the scene to 'ensure the vehicle poses no further danger'.

Video showed orange smoke pouring from the car after the impact.

No police or bystanders were injured in the incident near the Grand Palais exhibition hall.

Police have closed two of the Metro stations on the Champs-Elysees, the world-renowned avenue lined with shops and cinemas that is a major tourist draw in the French capital.

The incident came just two months after a policeman was shot and killed on the avenue, three days before the first round of France's presidential election.

A note praising the Islamic State group was found next to the body of the gunman, Karim Cheurfi, in that incident.

Police later found other weapons in Cheurfi's car including a shotgun and knives.

On June 7, a hammer-wielding Algerian man was shot and wounded by police after he struck an officer on the head in front of Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, shouting it was in revenge 'for Syria'.

He had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group in a video found at his home.

Paris police say a security operation is underway in the shopping district where there were reports of a car being abandoned on the world-famous avenue which has been cordoned off

French police secure the area on the Champs Elysees after the car burst into flames in the French capital

French policemen secure the area on the Champs Elysees avenue after an incident in Paris

It is understood the car crashed into a police van and that there were no casualties as video footage emerged of the aftermath.

People were seen fleeing the area as police officers armed with machine guns frantically cleared the tourist hotspot.

A witness, who was just 20 metres from the incident, said: 'Large bangs followed by what sounded like shots fired near a car with smoke coming out of it on Champs Elysees.'

He added that one person was on the ground and that everyone in the area was told to run.

A journalist who happened to be in the area at the time said the man deliberately crashed his car into the van causing his vehicle to be set alight.

Officers leapt into action and broke the car window to drag him from the flames.

It comes months after 37-year-old Xavier Jugele was murdered when an ISIS-inspired gunman opened fire with an assault rifle on a police van parked on the most famous avenue in the French capital.

Two other officers were wounded.

France remains under a state of emergency after a string of deadly Islamic extremist attacks in the country.
Appalling allegations: Jailed brain surgeon Dr James Kohut, 57, is now suspected of sexually abusing minors beginning in 1997 and seeking to impregnate women to building 'sexual families'

Disturbing new allegations have emerged against a jailed California brain surgeon accusing him of raping minors for two decades and seeking to impregnate women so he could later have incestuous sex with their children.

Dr James Kohut, a married father-of-two from Santa Cruz, was originally arrested in late May along with his two female nurses, accused of performing sex acts on seven children under the age of 13.

Kohut, 57, has been in jail since May 14, charged with 11 felony counts, including sodomy, lewd acts with children, forcible lewd acts with children, and other related offenses involving at least seven minors.

The surgeon's nurses Emily Stephens, 29, and Rashel Brandon, 42, who were his lovers, were also arrested last month over alleged sex crimes targeting children.

Brandon was arrested May 9 and charged with 11 felonies involving child sexual abuse as well as multiple charges related to the production of child pornography.

Stephens, who was arrested at her home in Arizona on May 12, was charged with committing sexual penetration, oral copulation, and sodomy against three children.

Last week, Kohut's defense attorney filed a motion asking a judge to set bail for his release, which prompted Assistant District Attorney Steve Moore to write an opposition to the request detailing a series of shocking allegations against the suspect dating back to at least 1997, as Santa Cruz Sentinel first reported.

Nurses Emily Stephens (left), 29, and Rashel Brandon (right), 42, have been arrested and charged with sex crimes against children. The surgeon was having affairs with the two women, who would also film each other 'committing graphic sex acts together against children', an arrest warrant states

'For nearly 20 years, the defendant has had a fixed sexual desire to be part of multiple "taboo families" where the parents raise their children sexually,' the prosecutor wrote. 'He has a specific desire to have sex with a mother and a daughter. He then wants to impregnate the daughter and raise the child sexually in the "taboo" family lifestyle.'

According to Moore, multiple law enforcement agencies in several different states, as well as the FBI and Australian Federal Police, have investigated Kohut over the past two decades, but he has never been convicted of any crime.

The prosecutor claimed in his court filing Kohut preferred children between ages 6 and 8, and preyed on children in California, Ohio, Florida, Louisiana, Nevada and Australia.

In one case, according to Moore, Kohut told a woman from Vermont that he had been in a relationship with a mother-of-two from Florida, whom he asked to call him 'daddy,' and whose 13-year-old child he fondled.

Kohut allegedly has been using the internet since 1997 to find women to create 'taboo families,' wrote Moore. One woman reported in 2001 that the doctor wanted to build a sexual family that would practice bestiality and incest.

Moore said in his opposition-to-bail filing that the surgeon and nurse Brandon had made plans to adopt a child through foster care, or even from Mexico, for the alleged purpose of creating a taboo family.

Kohuts defense attorney Jay Rorty claimed in his bail request that his client was not a flight risk and that he posed no danger to the community.

Kohut, pictured in court on Monday, was arrested in May in for allegedly performing sexual acts on seven children under the age of 13, including a three-year-old boy

He also maintained that he has seen no evidence tying his client to the sex crimes detailed in court documents, including oral sex with a boy and a girl under age 10, sexual acts with three boys under age 14, among them a 3-year-old, a five-year-old girl and a nine-year-old boy.

Prosecutor Moore countered by claiming in his opposition that Kohut is, in fact, a flight risk and that he is also mentally unstable and suicidal.

If convicted of the charges that have been filed against him so far, Kohut could face a minimum of 165 years in prison.

The father-of-two surgeon was having affairs with his two nurses, and children were abused during some of the sexual encounters, a warrant issued by the Pima County Sheriff's Department last month stated.

Police in Watsonville, California, began investigating after Rashel Brandon's husband found a tape of his wife and Stephens 'committing graphic sex acts together against the children' and gave it to authorities, the warrant stated.

The tape was allegedly recorded in a hotel room in March this year.

Brandon, who was the first of the trio to be arrested, confessed to detectives who the second woman in the tape was. At the same time, she also gave investigators information about Kohut's role in the disturbing ring.

Assistant District Attorney Steven Moore answers questions outside the Judge John Salazar's courtroom regarding Dr. James Kohut on June 19

'He wans't there': Kohut's attorney, wrote in his bail request that videos submitted as evidence in the case depict Brandon (right) and Stephens engage in sexual acts with children, but Kohut (left) is not in them

The warrant also provided more detail on the alleged affair between Kohut and the 29-year-old Stephens, which is said to have lasted eight years.

The document stated the surgeon paid most of the nurses' bills, before detailing some of the alleged activities the trio took part in.

The two women would send him copies of the sex tapes, which allegedly involved children, after filming them.

'Emily had obtained payments from Dr. Kohut. There is also information that Rochelle (sic) traveled to Tucson to meet with Emily on several occasions,' it stated, KSBW reported in May.

'It is highly likely that the same sexual abuse occurred in Tucson since both Dr Kohut and Rochelle (sic) traveled to Tucson.'

Some of the alleged assaults took place between January 2016 and May 9, 2017.

Rorty, Kohut's attorney, wrote in his bail request that the videos submitted as evidence in the case depict Brandon and Stephens engage in sexual acts with children, but Kohut is not in them.

'Much of the evidence against Dr. Kohut consists of allegations by Brandon, who has already demonstrated a willingness to lie to investigators regarding her own crimes even when confronted with images evidencing her criminal conduct,' the defense's motion stated.

Prosecutors say Kohut (pictured), has been abusing minors beginning in 1997 and seeking to impregnate women to building 'sexual families'

Kohut had recently joined Sparks Clinic Neuroscience Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas, after he was fired from his job at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz for 'making unwanted sexual advances toward female nurses'.

He was also disciplined in 2002 by the state medical board for watching pornography at work.

The 57-year-old has since been fired by Sparks Clinic, and his license has been suspended in Arkansas.

Kohut is married and has two college-age children; while Brandon is also married and has three children. They both remain in custody at the Santa Cruz County Jail, while Stephens is being extradited from Arizona to California.
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Twenty-three members of the Vagos motorcycle gang were arrested over the weekend in dramatic police raids across three states.

The men were picked up in California, Nevada and Hawaii and are now in custody facing charges of murder, kidnapping, assault, racketeering and drug trafficking.

Some are wanted for orchestrating the fatal shooting of a Hells Angel boss at a Las Vegas casino in 2011.

In a 45-page indictment, prosecutors described how the 23 men, who all went by nicknames including 'Tata', 'Dragon Man' and 'Romeo', were responsible for 'drug addiction, death and mayhem' across five states.

The indictment was unsealed by the Department of Justice on Friday. It details how the high-ranking suspects were known as 'national' or 'international officers' - a title of authority in the 50-year-old gang's hierarchy.

They were marched out of their homes and one building which was operating as a rehab center on Friday and were handcuffed and lined up on the sidewalk. The charges relate to incidents between 2005 and 2017.

Twenty-three members of the Vagos motorcycle gang were arrested in raids in California, Hawaii and Nevada on Friday. Above, some of the heavily tattooed suspects who were handcuffed after they emerged from a rehab center in Moreno Valley, California

They are; Pastor Fausto Palafox, aka Tata, Albert Lopez aka Al, Albert Benjamin Perez, aka Dragon Man, James Patrick Gillespie, aka Jimbo, Andrew Eloy Lozano, aka Hulk, Ernesto Manuel Gonzalez, aka Romeo, Victor Adam Ramirez, aka Slick, James Walter Henderson aka CJ, Steven Earl Carr, aka Big Steve, Robert Alan Coleman, aka Mayhem, Jeremy John Halgat, aka Maniak, Paul Jeffrey Voll, aka Shyster, John Joseph Siemer, aka Rocky, Bradley Michael Campos, aka Candy Man, Cesar Vaquera Morales, aka C, Diego Chavez Garcia aka Boo, Edward Claridan Chelb, aka Recon, Johnny Russell Neddenriep aka Johnny Bolts, Darin Kieth Grieder, aka Midget, Thomas Granville Garretson, aka Tommy Guns, Bert Wayne Davisson, aka Flash, Matthew Keith Dunlap, aka Big Mat, and John Chrispin Juarez, aka Quicky.

Together, the men, who referred to the operation as a 'brotherhood', are accused of ordering the murders of rival gang members and instructing underlings to kill disobedient Vagos motorcyclists.

Some are accused of peddling methamphetamine while others allegedly sold counterfeit goods. One man is alleged to have beaten a female bartender unconscious in one attack.

They trafficked stolen guns and cars, talked in code on the phone to evade law enforcement and intimidated anyone who threatened to expose their criminal investigation, prosecutors claim.

The gang members ranged in age but all are considered high-ranking in the group's hierarchy

Some of the men have the gang's coat of arms tattooed on their backs. The indictment against them details how members are expected to pledge loyalty by wearing the gang's colors and identifying badges on their clothes

A gang member is led away by armed police after the raid in Moreno Valley, California, on Friday

All of the men were ordered to remove their shirts as part of the raid before they were led away

Officers from the FBI and Homeland Security's Police Gang Unit were among those involved in the investigation

WHO ARE THE VAGOS BIKERS? The Vagos insignia depicts the Norse god Loki. It was designed by a member of the gang while they served time in prison The Vagos Motorcycle gang, also referred to as Vagos OMG, Green Nation and Vagos MC, was founded in San Bernardino, California, in 1965. Its name as Spanish for 'lazy' and honors the Norse god of mischief which is depicted in its emblem. Since its formation, the operation has grown to have 87 chapters in at least seven countries including the United States and regions of South and Central America. According to the indictment, it has 54 chapters in Nevada and California alone and the entire organisation has between 900 and 1,000 members. Hells Angels is a bigger operation with thousands of members across hundreds of chapters in countries around the world. Vagos gang members are identified by its 'colors' or cuts, all of which feature the color green. Many have tattoos of the coat of arms, which was designed by an imprisoned gang member, on their backs. Authorities say the gang operates as an illegal enterprise whose mission is to stamp-out rival gangs. The gang refers to itself as a 'one percent gang' which denotes its status as an outlaw biker gang. Members also call themselves 'Green Nation'. Advertisement

In 2011, gang members ordered the death of Hells Angel boss Jeff Pettigrew at the Nugget Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Ernesto Gonzalez, one of those accused in the indictment, was previously charged with the killing but was freed on a technicality.

As part of their membership, they paid 'dues' to a mutual fund controlled by the gang which paid for individuals' legal costs.

All were expected to wear the gang's signature pale green colors once accepted.

The bosses gave orders to more junior recruits to carry out criminal activity, according to the indictment. This included giving the 'green light' for assaults on rival Hells Angels and an 'SOS' which stood for 'smash on sight'.

The charges are; conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, violent crime in aid of racketeering - murder, using and carrying a firearm to commit murder during and in relation to a crime of violence, kidnapping, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver a controlled substance, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, taking of a motor vehicle and aiding and abetting.

Ernesto Gonzalez was among those arrested. He escaped jail in 2013 after being freed on a technicality for the murder of a Hells Angel

Hells Angel boss Jeff Pettigrew was shot dead at a casino in 2011. According to prosecutors, members of the Vagos gang ordered and carried out his killing

Pettigrew was killed at Las Vegas's Golden Nugget casino in 2011

Among the criminal allegations are details of how the gang was structured and what rules it imposed.

Women were not allowed to join but were often called on to carry drugs or guns for the men. Some were referred to as 'VOLS - Vagos Ol Lady' or were considered the 'property' of male members.

After unsealing the indictment on Friday, Acting Assistant Attorney Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, said: 'Today, the rule of law dealt a serious blow to the Vagos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, a so-called "brotherhood" responsible for drug addiction, death and mayhem in multiple locations, including California, Arizona, Hawaii, Oregon and Nevada.

'Todays coordinated take-down of this biker organizations leadership is a victory for all of us who respect and love our country, and a testament to the bravery and dedication of federal, state and local law enforcement men and women who to keep our communities safe.'

The will all face court in Nevada.
A 10-year-old girl had her arm partially torn off by a pit bull in a vicious attack on Saturday - one year after the same dog attacked another man.

The girl, whose name has not been released, was playing in the backyard of a neighbor's home in Detroit, Michigan, when she was mauled by the dog, WDIV reported.

She is in a 'very critical condition' at St. John Hospital, although doctors remained optimistic after they reattached her arm and saved her foot, police said.

A 10-year-old girl had her arm torn off by a pit bull (pictured) in a vicious attack on Saturday - one year after the same dog attacked another man

The girl, whose name has not been released, was playing in the backyard of a neighbor's home in Detroit, Michigan, when she was mauled by the dog

The girl was with her aunt in the in the backyard of a neighbor's house on the 10700 block of Beaconsfield Street on Saturday afternoon.

The neighbors locked their pit bull in a second-floor room, since the dog had been involved in a previous attack on a DTE energy worker.

But the pit bull escaped and started mauling the 10-year-old girl, sinking its teeth into her arm.

The aunt tried to intervene, but suffered injuries to her leg while Raphael Jackson, another neighbor who lives across the street, beat the dog with a shovel.

Jackson, who broke the shovel in an attempt to get it to let go, said: 'It's vividly in my mind - the kid's arm, dangling.'

Raphael Jackson, another neighbor who lives across the street, (left) beat the dog with a shovel (right, after it broke) in an attempt to get it to release the girl's arm

The girl was taken to St. John Hospital, where police said her arm was successfully reattached.

'Why is this dog allowed to stay here when we already have a history of the dog being vicious?' Police Chief James Craig told WDIV.

The pit bull is now at the Detroit Animal Control, where it is required to be quarantined for 10 days.

It remains unclear whether the dog's owner will try to block the pit bull from being put down. The decision will then be decided in a court hearing.

The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office will look into possible charges, while police and animal control are investigating.
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The record setting heatwave is expected to crush southwestern cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix as it could cause major health issues with temperatures so hot that people are being warned flights could be grounded.

American Airlines has already grounded 38 flights at the Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix for Tuesday, and they are warning passengers that more may be cancelled as the temperature is expected to soar to 120 degrees.

The airline is letting Phoenix passengers scheduled to fly during the peak heat Monday through Wednesday to change their flights without a fee.

The forecast calls for a high of 118 degrees on Monday and 120 degrees on Tuesday in Phoenix. Las Vegas is expected to reach 117 degrees, but airport officials told DailyMail.com they have not been made aware of any cancellations due to the weather as of Monday afternoon.

The heat will have the biggest impact on smaller regional jets flying out of Phoenix. Extreme heat creates changes in the air density that make it harder for airplanes to take off.

Airlines respond by imposing weight restrictions, such as carrying less cargo and fuel.

American Airlines pilot Shane Coffey also said that the extreme heat causes some pilots to have to use more thrust or impose weight restrictions such as flying with less cargo.

The record setting heat wave is expected to crush southwestern cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix as it could cause major health issues with temperatures. Tuesday, the temperature is expected to reach 120 degrees in Phoenix and 117 degrees in Las Vegas

Extreme heat creates changes in the air density that makes it harder for airplanes to take off. Airlines respond by imposing weight restrictions, such as carrying less cargo and fuel. But in some cases, they will ground flights during the peak heat (file above at Phoenix airport)

Vacationers in Vegas were in the right place to stay cool hanging by the refreshing pools of the Venetian hotel on The Strip

The heatwave is bringing some of the hottest weather to the southwestern part of the country that has not been seen in decades. Above people hike in Phoenix when it was 110 degrees outside last week

Health officials are warning people stay hydrated and indoors during the heatwave. Above a man runs in the excessive heat on Friday in Phoenix

An American Eagle jet is seen through heat ripples as it lands at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix

Lori Mantz sprays water to cool down her horse Chavi on Monday in Las Vegas during the extreme heat

Air density on a 90-degree day in Denver at more than 5,000 feet elevation is similar to a 120-degree day in Phoenix at 1,100 feet above sea level, he said.

HOW EXTREME TEMPERATURES AFFECT FLIGHTS Extreme heat creates changes in the air density that make it harder for airplanes to take off. Airlines respond by imposing weight restrictions, such as carrying less cargo and fuel. But planes will need more speed to take off and a longer runway length to do that in extreme heat situations if the aircraft type can fully operate when temperatures are past 120 degrees. American Airlines pilot Shane Coffey also said that the extreme heat causes some pilots to have to use more thrust. Air density on a 90-degree day in Denver at more than 5,000 feet elevation is similar to a 120-degree day in Phoenix at 1,100 feet above sea level, he said. The maximum operating temperature for each aircraft type is based on manufacturer data: Airbus - 127 degrees

Boeing - 126 degrees

Bombardier CRJ regional aircraft - 118 degrees Advertisement

David R. Harwell, a spokesman for the City of Phoenix Aviation Department, told DailyMail.com that the runways at the airport are able to accommodate planes taking off in hot weather.

However, Harwell said it's ultimately up to the airline on whether flights will be grounded due to hot temperatures outside.

A spokesperson for Southwest Airlines, which has a hub in Phoenix, told DailyMail.com that they don't have any cancellations as of Monday related to the heat in the city. The airliner does not charge change fees to customers who would like to alter their travel schedule.

The maximum operating temperature for each aircraft type is based on manufacturer data: Airbus - 127 degrees, Boeing - 126 degrees and Bombardier CRJ regional aircraft - 118 degrees, according to a statement from American Airlines obtained by DailyMail.com.

'The heat is expected to impact some of our regional flights, operated by Mesa Airlines and SkyWest Airlines, especially on Tuesday, June 20,' the statement reads.

'American Eagle (our regional flights), operated by Mesa and SkyWest, operate the CRJ aircraft to/from PHX. On average, American Eagle has 90 departures and 90 arrivals daily.'

Due to the extreme heat, American Airlines has canceled 20 regional flights for Tuesday due to the CRJ aircraft's maximum operating temperature being at 118 degrees.

Harwell said that the Sky Harbor airport is 'well prepared for Arizona summers'. Airport employees are being asked to take frequent breaks and to stay hydrated.

Children cool off during the extreme weather at the Spring Valley Community Park in Las Vegas as temperatures hit more than 113 degrees

Dorian Aboutes, eight, (left) and Tino Martinez, two, (right) still look happy as they play in the blistering heat

It didn't look like Las Vegas and parts of the south west would get much respite from the heat, with forecasts suggesting the warm weather will continue

Carolina Colon tosses a shark water toy airborne while cooling off at Spring Valley Lake in Victorville, California

It's currently set to reach 118 degrees in Phoenix on Monday and 114 degrees in Las Vegas

The current heat index around 5.00pm (EST) shows much of the southern part of the country being affected by the warm weather from California to Florida

Tonight's forecast shows that it will cool down to the high 80's in Phoenix and Las Vegas

They've also taken extra measures to provide air-conditioned trailers on the airfield where maintenance works can take breaks and also pump air conditioning into underground manholes for airfield electrical workers.

The punishing heat wave that includes a forecast of 120 degrees in Phoenix is a temperature not seen in the desert city in more than 20 years.

On June 26, 1990, an all-time record of 122 degrees was set in the city. On that day some airlines stopped taking off and landing for part of the day at Sky Harbor.

Harwell said that back then they did not have airliner performance charts for a temperature that high. Plus, the runway at Sky Harbor at the time was made from asphalt, which started to become soft and melt.

But since then, most of the airlines that serve Sky Harbor have updated their airliner performance charts with new data that goes up to the 122 degree-plus range. In addition, the runway is now made of concrete instead of asphalt.

The airlines will work with aircraft manufacturers and air traffic controllers to make the decision on whether to delay or ground flights in extreme heat conditions.

The forecast in the evening will again see cooler temperatures across the country, but it will still be about 90 degrees at night in Phoenix

Wunderground Weather Historian Christopher C. Burt said Phoenix temperatures rose to 120 degrees and above only three times in recorded history - twice in 1990 and once in 1995.

Burt said the city has hit 118 degrees 11 times, most recently last summer. It could be worse: Death Valley could see 124 degrees on Tuesday.

The broiling temperatures will also be felt in Las Vegas and Southern California, creating a public health hazard.

Rising temps are being closely watched by everyone from airline pilots and emergency room doctors to power grid managers and mountain cities unaccustomed to heat waves.

Even cities accustomed to dealing with 110-degree days are grappling with the new problems that arise from 120 degrees.

The extreme heat can cause major health issues doctors warn.

Wednesday's forecast the heat continues as it is predicted to be 119 degrees in Phoenix, while Los Angeles will reach 91 degrees

The heat wave continues on Thursday with several cities seeing temperatures over 100 degrees

Dr. Moneesh Bhow, medical director for Banner University Medical Center Emergency department, said the body's internal cooling mechanisms are ineffective when temps reach above 110 degrees.

PHOENIX GROUNDED FLIGHTS DUE TO RECORD SETTING TEMPERATURES IN 1990 The punishing heat wave that includes a forecast of 120 degrees in Phoenix is a temperature not seen in the desert city in more than 20 years. On June 26, 1990 Phoenix Sky Harbor airport set a record with temperatures reaching 122 degrees. At the time, airlines stopped taking off and landing for part of the day, because at the time they did not have aircraft performance charts for temperatures that high. Plus, the runway at Sky Harbor at the time was made from asphalt, which started to become soft and melt. But since then, most of the airlines that serve Sky Harbor have updated their airliner performance charts with new data that goes up to the 122 degree-plus range. The runway at the airport is now made of concrete. Wunderground Weather Historian Christopher C. Burt said Phoenix temperatures rose to 120 degrees and above only three times in recorded history - twice in 1990 and once in 1995. Burt said the city has hit 118 degrees 11 times, most recently last summer. Advertisement

One of the ways the body cools itself is by radiating heat through the skin into the air, but that system reverses when external temperatures climb to 110 or higher.

'When that happens we have to rely on our second mechanism, which is sweating,' Bhow said. Sweat makes your skin feel cooler and some heat is removed as it evaporates.

He noted staying hydrated is crucial to perspiring and staying cool.

The state Department of Health Services says nearly 2,000 people visit Arizona emergency rooms every year because of heat-related illnesses.

Bhow said patients can present with a variety of illnesses - ranging from a simple heat rash to a severe heat stroke.

The heat is a serious public health hazard in places such as Phoenix and Las Vegas where temperatures routinely exceed 110 degrees in the summer months.

The county that is home to Phoenix had 130 heat-related deaths in 2016, the highest number in more than a decade. It wasn't immediately clear what caused the uptick.

Kate Goodin, epidemiology and data services program manager at the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, said heat-related deaths span the entire Phoenix metro area, but underlying social and economic factors also have an impact.

Homeless people comprised one-third of heat-related deaths in 2016, according to county records. Most of the others involved people with non-functioning air conditioners.

'People who are economically disadvantaged have a harder time paying for increased electricity bills or keeping their water on throughout the entire year and those factors can predispose you to heat-related illness,' Goodin said.
Lester Packingham Jr., a registered sex offender after having 'indecent liberties' with a 13-year-old girl when he was 21, won the right to use Facebook, Twitter and similar sites following the ruling on Monday

The Supreme Court has struck down a North Carolina law that bars convicted sex offenders from social media.

Lester Packingham Jr., a registered sex offender after having 'indecent liberties' with a 13-year-old girl when he was 21, won the right to use Facebook, Twitter and similar sites following the ruling on Monday.

The 36-year-old was convicted in 2010 of breaking a North Carolina law that bans sex offenders from using commercial social networking sites, over fears they could connect with children, after he took to Facebook to celebrate his traffic court victory.

'No fine. No Court costs. No nothing. Praise be to God. Wow. Thanks, Jesus,' he wrote. That post landed him with a felony charge and a suspended prison sentence.

His lawyers had argued that Packingham, who wrote the post under an alias on Facebook, was not using the website or his computer to communicate with minors or that he posted anything inappropriate or obscene.

They said that the law, meant to prevent communications between sex offenders and minors via social media, was so broad that it violates the Constitution's free-speech protections.

The case reaches the Supreme Court after it was upheld by North Carolina's highest court in a divided ruling.

Earlier this year, the court heard form groups including the libertarian Cato Institute and the American Civil Liberties Union which argued the North Carolina law could ban sex offenders from online life that includes looking for jobs or reading the daily musings of President Donald Trump and is unconstitutional.

'Everyday Americans understand that social media - which includes Twitter, Facebook, Instagram - are absolutely central to their daily life and how the First Amendment is exercised in America today,' said Stanford law professor David Goldberg.

The 36-year-old was convicted in 2010 of breaking a North Carolina law that bans sex offenders from using commercial social networking sites such as Facebook (stock image)

Though the intent of North Carolina lawmakers may have been to block sexual predators from finding and grooming prey online, Goldberg said the law goes further and makes it a crime for someone on a sex-offender registry to say anything about any subject on social media.

'That goes way, way too far,' Goldberg said.

'It's a crime to do anything, including what Mr. Packingham did, which was to say "God is good" because he was victorious in traffic court. There's never been any suggestion that he was up to anything but exercising his freedom of speech.'

Georgia, Kentucky and Louisiana also have laws restricting sex offenders' use of use of social media sites.

Nine other states require offenders to disclose their online usernames and profiles, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Today, the Supreme Court voted unanimously to overturn the law to allow sex offenders to use social media

The U.S. Supreme Court, L-R, front row, Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Associate Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, and Associate Justice Stephen Breyer, back row from left, Associate Justice Elena Kagan, Associate Justice Samuel Alito Jr., Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, and Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch

'We have to protect young people wherever they are, whether that's at school, or at summer camp or increasingly online,' said North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, earlier this year, whose office was defending the law.

'This North Carolina law keeps registered sex offenders off of social networking websites that kids use without denying the offenders access to the internet. It just keeps them off of certain web sites.'

The law's supporters contended that it doesn't regulate what sex offenders say, just the time, place and manner of their speech, which most people understand through the legal maxim that you can't yell 'fire' in a crowded movie theater.

Today, the Supreme Court rejected the state's argument that the law deals with the virtual world in the same way that states keep sex offenders out of playgrounds and other places children visit.

Justices voted unanimously to overturn the law, and allow sex offenders to use social media as long as they are not committing a crime, ruling that it comes under free speech.

That means that Americans now have a constitutional right to use Facebook and other social media.

As a result, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the unanimous opinion, the Court must exercise extreme caution before suggesting that the First Amendment provides scant protection for access to vast networks in that medium. ADVERTISEMENT
Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is poised to steal the title of world's richest man title from Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

Bezos' net worth went up around $2billion with Amazon's purchase of grocery chain Whole Foods last week.

As of Monday, Forbes estimates that the 53-year-old online retail tycoon's net worth is $85.2billion.

That mean's he's a little more than $4billion away from overtaking Bill Gates, 61, as the world's richest man.

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos (left) is just $4billion away from overtaking Bill Gates (right) as the world's richest man

Gates currently has a wealth of $89.4billion and has won the title for the past four years running.

Meanwhile, Bezos has slowly been working his way up the world's richest list over nearly two decades. He first appeared on the billionaire's list in 1999, three years after Amazon was founded.

TOP 10 RICHEST MEN IN THE WORLD NAME WEALTH SOURCE NET WORTH 1. Bill Gates Microsoft $89.4billion 2. Jeff Bezos Amazon.com $85.2billion 3. Amancio Ortega Zara $84.1billion 4. Warren Buffett Berkshire Hathaway $76.9billion 5. Carlos Slim Helu telecom $76.9billion 6. Mark Zuckerberg Facebook $63.9billion 7. Larry Ellison software $55.8billion 8. Bernard Arnault LVMH $54.2billion 9. Michael Bloomberg Bloomberg LP $51.5billion 10. Charles Koch diversified $48.1billion

While Bezos and Gates are close in age, the two are at very different places in their lives.

Gates stepped down as head of Microsoft in 2000, and has pledged to give away at least half of his wealth in his lifetime. He has remained at the top of the list though because he still continues to make a lot of money from his 2 per cent ownership in the company.

Bezos, meanwhile, has been rapidly expanding his business. In addition to Amazon, he also owns the Washington Post newspaper and the space company Blue Origin.

Bezos has not been as active in the philanthropic field as Gates has. However, last Thursday, he posted a tweet asking for input on worthy charities.

'I'm thinking I want much of my philanthropic activity to be helping people in the here and now - short term - at the intersection of urgent need and lasting impact,' he tweeted. 'If you have ideas, just reply to this tweet.'

Twitter users responded with a wide array of suggestions, from solving the opioid crisis to criminal justice reform.

Others said Bezos should look to his own employees before giving to charity.

'Unionize Amazon,' writer Hamilton Nolan tweeted.

Amazon has been widely criticized for the way it treats it's warehouse workers, and has been accused of threatening to fire employees who have attempted to form unions.

Bezos founded Amazon in 1996, after quitting his job at a New York hedge fund and moving to Seattle, Washington to get in on the tech boom.

The store evolved from an online bookseller to a one-stop-shop website with an annual revenue north of $135billion.
President Trump's son-in-law, a key member of his inner circle, has been in touch with respected criminal lawyers as an investigation over links with Russia looms, it has been reported.

Insiders are anxious about links between Jared Kushner's current lawyer, Jamie S. Gorelick, and special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, who is investigating alleged ties between the Trump campaign and the Kremlin.

The two were formerly law partners at Washington firm WilmerHale.

Jared Kushner is facing questions over claims he held a meeting with Russia's ambassador in December, during which he discussed setting up a hotline with the Kremlin

Sources close to Kushner told the New York Times that the Presidential adviser has spoken to at least one renowned trial lawyer, who may replace or work alongside Ms Gorelick.

Despite the reported discussions, his current legal team has not been changed, and Ms Gorelick has been preparing Kushner for a meeting with investigators from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

A statement from Ms Gorelick said: 'After the appointment of our former partner Robert Mueller as special counsel, we advised Mr. Kushner to obtain the independent advice of a lawyer with appropriate experience as to whether he should continue with us as his counsel.'

Kushner has reportedly held discussions with a prominent criminal lawyer during an investigation into links between the Trump campaign and Russia

Kushner is in the spotlight over alleged discussions with Russia's ambassador in December, during which he reportedly discussed setting up a secret communication channel between the Trump administration and Moscow.

His actions are being scrutinised as part of a wider investigation into whether Trump's team colluded with Russia during last year's election campaign.

Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trump's international envoy, will arrive on Monday.
One county in Ohio has officially recorded the most opioid deaths in the US this year.

Montgomery County now lays claim to the unfortunate title of 'Overdose Capital of America', thanks to 365 overdose deaths officially cataloged between January and May this year, reports NBC News.

In 2016, a total of 371 people died of drug overdoses there for the entire year, according to the county coroner's office.

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From January to May this year, Montgomery County recorded 365 opioid overdose deaths, a substantial increase compared to the 371 similar deaths seen in all of 2016, authorities say

Montgomery County coroner Kent Harshbarger (right) estimated that 60 to 70 percent of the victims that come through his office, and are held in the morgue's cooler, are overdose victims

The Montgomery County coroner expects that his office will see 2,000 opioid-related deaths by the end of the year. The county coroner processes one-fifth of the cases in Ohio

Montgomery County Sheriff Phil Plummer told NBC News that the county anticipates 800 people will die of an overdose by the end of this year and that it is 'Number 1 in the nation in overdose deaths' per capita.

The 2010 census puts the county's population at just over 535,000 people.

Montgomery County sheriff's deputies are said to respond to several overdose calls a day and deputies carry two doses of Narcan, a nasal spray version of naloxone, a prescription drug that can reverse the effects of an opiod overdose.

However, deputies say that being armed with those two doses of Narcan isn't always enough  one deputy told NBC News that 20 doses were needed to treat a recent overdose victim and noted that even with the emergency treatment, the victims often die anyway.

To help combat the number of opioid-related deaths, Montgomery County sheriff's deputies now carry two doses of nasal spray Narcan, which can counteract an opioid overdose

Sheriff's deputies say that the doses of Narcan, a form of naloxone (the injectable version is seen here), they carry isn't always enough to save the lives of overdosing people, though

Plummer told Fox News that 'the problem is getting worse every day' and that the county doesn't have enough police resources to fight the epidemic. 'We work very hard, its changed our jobs,' he said.

In addition to arresting drug dealers, the sheriff's deputies have been known to drive opioid-addicted people to treatment centers, try to enlist family members to help their addicted relatives and raise awareness about the dangers of opioid use.

Montgomery County coroner Kent Harshbarger told NBC News he estimates that anywhere from 60 to 70 percent of the bodies that come through his office are overdose victims.

By the end of the year, he and his staff are likely to process some 2,000 overdose victims' bodies.

No surprise then that the county's morgue cooler is full of overdose victims and that, during autopsies, the coroner's office tests for the presence of more than two dozen types of the synthetic opioid, fentanyl.

Because his office is responsible for processing one-fifth of the cases in Ohio, Hashbarger estimates that The Buckeye State alone will clock 10,000 overdose deaths by the end of this year  more than all of the opioid overdose-related deaths recorded in all of America in 1990.

Harshbarger told NBC News that the sheer number of opioid overdose-related deaths in Montgomery County 'is no different than some kind of mass-casualty event in any other form,' labeling it a 'medical event.'

'It needs to be recognized that way to bring some federal assets to help us,' he added.

Fentanyl, which is traditionally used medically in palliative care and as a potent painkiller, has seen an increase in recreational use in recent years.

The drug has been overrunning cities throughout America, including Dayton, Ohio  the county seat of Montgomery County  due largely to trafficking by Mexican cartels.

Opioid overdoses now result in more deaths in Americans under the age of 50 than than car crashes, gun deaths and the AIDS virus claimed in their peak years, says NBC News.

Based on preliminary data, The New York Times estimates that the number of drug overdose fatalities in the US for 2016 is likely to be greater than 59,000 and will represent the greatest annual change recorded to date.

The Times anticipates that last year's opioid-related deaths will be 19 percent higher than the 52,404 deaths officially recorded in 2015.

Early data indicated notable increases in drug-related overdose deaths in Maryland, Florida, Pennsylvania and Maine in particular, while Ohio can expect to see about a 25 percent increase in drug deaths in 2016.
The US Supreme Court has ruled unanimously in favor of dance-rock band The Slants after they argued that a law banning offensive trademarks is unconstitutional.

The Slants - who are all Asian-American - chose the anti-Asian slur for their band name in an attempt to reclaim the word and make it a positive term.

But they were denied a trademark until Monday's ruling - which also bodes well for the NFL's Washington Redskins, which is fighting an attempt by the US Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the trademark on its name.

Redskins owner Dan Snyder has refused to change the team's name in the past, saying it 'represents honor, respect and pride' for Native Americans.

On Monday he released a brief statement: 'I am THRILLED. Hail to the Redskins.'

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Asian-American band The Slants will be allowed to trademark their name, the Supreme Court declared on Monday; they were initially denied because their name is a reclaimed slur

The Washington Redskins have been fighting their own case since 2014, when the patent office tried to revoke their six trademarks at the behest of a Native American protest group

The court ruled 8-0 to throw out a federal prohibition on disparaging trademarks, saying that was a violation of First Amendment rights.

The band had initially been denied the trademark because the government deemed its name disparaging to people of Asian descent.

Monday's ruling is great news for the Redskins, which took the name in the 1930s but in 2014 was told that a US Patent and Trademark Office tribunal was canceling its six trademarks.

The cancelations were made at the request of Native American activists, who said the name was disparaging to Native Americans.

The team's appeal, also on free speech grounds, was put on hold in the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, pending the outcome of The Slants' case.

Lisa Blatt, a lawyer representing the Redskins, said the team is equally happy because it resolves 'the Redskins' long-standing dispute with the government.'

Writing for the court, Justice Samuel Alito did not mince words in ruling that the decades-old trademark provision is unconstitutional.

'It offends a bedrock First Amendment principle: Speech may not be banned on the ground that it expresses ideas that offend,' Alito wrote.

Redskins owner Daniel Snyder said he was 'thrilled' by the Slants' ruling; he was told that the team would lose its trademarks because their name is a derogatory term for Native Americans

Band frontman Simon Tam has said he chose to call the band The Slants to reclaim a term some consider a derogatory reference to Asian people's eyes, and wear it as a 'badge of pride.'

The band's lawyers argued that the government cannot use trademark law to impose burdens on free speech to protect listeners from offense.

The American Civil Liberties Union, which filed legal papers supporting the band, hailed the ruling as a major victory for the First Amendment.

ACLU lawyer Lee Rowland said government efforts to protect minorities from disparagement instead hurt members of that very community, in this case the Asian-American band.

'Fortunately, today's opinion prevents the kind of absurd outcome that results when the government plays speech police,' Rowland said.

The band welcomed the ruling.

'After an excruciating legal battle that has spanned nearly eight years, we're beyond humbled and thrilled to have won this case at the Supreme Court,' they said in a statement posted to their website on Monday.

'This journey has always been much bigger than our band: it's been about the rights of all marginalized communities to determine what's best for ourselves.'

Patent and Trademark Office spokesman Paul Fucito said the agency was reviewing the decision.

The government previously said a ruling favoring The Slants could lead to a proliferation of racial slurs as sanctioned trademarks.

The Redskins have long faced protests (pictured) from Native American groups. An appeal against the trademark ruling was ordered delayed until the Slants' ruling was made

After the government rejected The Slants' request, Tam appealed to the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, which in 2015 ruled that the so-called disparagement provision of the 1946 law governing trademarks ran afoul of the Constitution's guarantee of free speech.

The government appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.

The federal government said in court papers that it should not be required to approve trademarks 'containing crude references to women based on parts of their anatomy; the most repellent racial slurs and white-supremacist slogans; and demeaning illustrations of the prophet Mohammed and other religious figures.'

Justice Neil Gorsuch joined the court after arguments were heard in the case and did not participate in Monday's decision.

The Supreme Court also ruled on another free speech case on Monday, striking down a North Carolina law banning convicted sex offenders from Facebook and other social media services that play a vital role in modern life.
A woman attacked by a swarm of angry bees had to be rescued by firefighters spraying them with foam and water.

The female victim had been stung numerous times and had several bees tangled in her hair following the incident in Huntington Beach, California.

Huntington Beach Fire Department responded to the incident on Saturday morning to find a woman in considerable distress.

The woman was attacked in Huntington Beach, California on Saturday morning by a swarm of angry bees that stung her repeatedly and even became entangled into her hair

Huntington Beach Fire Department had to deploy two units to help rescue the woman by spraying a mixture of water and foam on the bees which took away their ability to fly

Fire chief David Segura said the woman, who is in her 40s, was 'actively being stung by a large swarm of bees'.

She had 'a large amount of bees tangled in their hair'.

One firefighter was stung several times trying to assist the woman. A spokesman said a second unit arrived at the scene and deployed a hoseline with water mixed with foam.

Segura said: 'This water and foam mixture helps to suppress the bees and temporarily restricts their flight.

'Crews were able to provide care to the victim once this tactic was used. The individual was transported to a local hospital for further care, while the firefighter who was stung did not require any medical care.

'Huntington Beach public works was contacted and responded to the scene to assess whether or not there was an active hive. Public works stated there were no more bees in the area and it is unknown if it was a passing swarm or if there was a bee hive somewhere nearby.

Captain Robert Culhane told the LA Times: 'They were really aggressive. As soon as we came on, they started coming after us.'

He said he believed the attackers were Africanized Honey Bee - also known as the killer be.

He added: 'I've never on a call like that before. They seemed more aggressive than what I was used to.'
Police in Seattle on Sunday shot dead a 30-year-old pregnant mother-of-four after they say she came at officers with a knife.

Police spokesman Detective Mark Jamieson says Charleena Chavon Lyles, who was African-American, had called police to report the burglary at around 10am on Sunday.

As two officers responded to the woman's fourth-floor apartment at the Brettler Family Place Apartments at Magnuson Park in northeast Seattle, police say Lyles confronted the officers while wielding a knife.

Pregnant mom killed: Charleena Chavon Lyles (left and right), a 30-year-old mother-of-four pregnant with her fifth child, was shot and killed by police in Seattle Sunday

A Seattle police officer cradles one of Lyles' children, with two others in the car, after the woman was shot to death at the Brettler Family Place Apartments at Magnuson Park Sunday

The Seattle Times reported that both officers fired their weapons. Lyles, who was three months pregnant with her fifth child, was hit several times and died just inside the apartment.

No officers were injured in the shooting, which took place in the presence of some of Lyles young children.

'Officers were confronted by a 30-year-old woman armed with a knife,' the department wrote on online crime blotter. 'Both officers fired their duty weapons, striking the woman.'

Family members say the shooting was unnecessary and that race was a factor. The Seattle Police Department told the Times that both officers are white. One of them was an 11-year veteran.

Both officers will be placed on paid administrative leave, in accordance with the department's policy.

Why couldn't they have Tased her? They could have taken her down. I could have taken her down, Monika Williams, the dead woman's sister, told the paper. Relatives described the 30-year-old mom-to-be as 'tiny.'

Expecting: Lyles, pictured with her four children, had only recently found out she was three months pregnant with her fifth

Three children, ages 1, 4 and 11, were inside the apartment at the time. They have been taken into protective custody.

Jamieson said Lyles was known to officers from past interactions, and her call on Sunday flagged 'hazard information' presenting 'increased risk' to officers.

Seattle police shoot and kill pregnant mom who reported a burglary attempt after she showed them a knif

The woman's relatives said Lyles had mental health problems for the past year and had been worried authorities would take away her children, including a four-year-old son suffering from Down syndrome.

Williams, the woman's sister, said Charleena had been arrested about a week before her death and charged with obstruction of a public official and harassment.

'The obstruction was she wouldn't let go of her baby until I got here and she had some scissors in her hand. She didn't charge nobody or nothing,' Williams told Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

Lyles was released on June 14 on condition that she will seek mental health counselling.

Seattle Mayor Ed Murray called Sunday's fatal shooting 'a tragedy for all envied,' and both he and Police Chief Kathleen O'Toole said the incident will be reviewed.

Monika Williams, front, Lyles' sister, is comforted at the scene the police shooting

Lyles' stepsister Florida Carroll cries into her phone at the scene of the deadly police-involved incident in Seattle Sunday

People attend a memorial outside Lyles' apartment building on Sunday evening

On Sunday night, dozens of grieving relatives and supporters, among them hip hop star Macklemore, attended a candlelight vigil for Lyles.

'She loved her kids to death, she was always the life of the party and had a smile on her face,' Williams said of her late baby sister, who went by the nickname 'Leena Boo.'

Williams has started a GoFundMe campaign hoping to collect $5,000 to help her orphaned nieces and nephews. As of Monday afternoon, just over $16,400 has been raised.
Ireland's new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said today he had been reassured by Theresa May that her planned deal with the DUP would not undermine the Good Friday Agreement.

At a joint press conference with the PM, Mr Varadkar revealed his delight at visiting No 10 by quipping about Hugh Grant's famous Love Actually scene in the house.

Mrs May and the Taoiseach held talks touching on Brexit and restoring devolution in Northern Ireland as well as the Tory-DUP deal.

Ireland's new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said today he had been reassured by Theresa May that her planned deal with the DUP would not undermine the Good Friday Agreement

On his first visit to London since becoming the Irish leader, Mr Varadkar revealed his delight at visiting No 10 by quipping about Hugh Grant's famous Love Actually scene in the house.

Mrs May and the Taoiseach held talks touching on Brexit and restoring devolution in Northern Ireland as well as the Tory -DUP deal.

The Prime Minister said she expected details of her arrangement with the party to be finally resolved tomorrow or Wednesday.

Mrs May is facing the embarrassing prospect of presenting a Queen's Speech without a written guarantee the socially conservative party will back it.

It means the programme is at some risk after the humiliating Tory failure to win a majority at the election earlier this month.

As he opened the press conference, Mr Varadkar joked: 'It's my first time in this building so it's a little thrill as well.

'We spoke on the way in and I was reminded of that famous scene in Love Actually where Hugh Grant does his dance down the stairs.

'But apparently it wasn't actually filmed here so I didn't get to see the stairs.'

Ireland's new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he had been reassured by Theresa May (pictured together today) that her planned deal with the DUP would not undermine the Good Friday Agreement

At a joint press conference with the PM, Mr Varadkar revealed his delight at visiting No 10 by quipping about Hugh Grant's famous Love Actually scene in the house

Turning to the talks between the pair, Mr Varadkar - who has only been in his post for five days - said he had been concerned about the Tory DUP deal.

But he said he had been 'very reassured' by his talks with Mrs May.

Both leaders agreed on the need to ensure the Ireland-Northern Ireland border remained open and with a minimal disruption to trade.

But Mr Varadkar said Brexit was a 'matter of regret' and made clear Ireland would be negotiating as one of the 27 remaining EU states.
'Barbaric' therapy designed to turn gay people straight could be banned in New York if a new bill is passed.

If given the go-ahead by the City Council, charging money to try and change a person's sexuality or gender identity will be illegal.

The move has been sponsored by Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, who told the New York Daily News: 'The idea that you can change a persons sexual identity though some kind of conversion therapy is just barbaric, just ridiculous.'

New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito has branded the practice 'barbaric' and called for it to be banned

Health insurance companies are prohibited from covering such therapies.

Anyone caught trying to convert gay people will be fined $1,000 if the bill passes. But it will not affect those who offer it for free.

The controversial therapy is not without its backers however.

Stephen Hayford, who heads New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms, has hit out at plans to ban the practice, saying it should be available to adults who choose to go through it, the Daily News reports.

Video Courtesy KUTV
A man took a van and smashed it into Muslims as they left a mosque at 2am. He said he wanted to kill all Muslims, that he was proud of what he had done, he even blew the crowd a kiss as he was taken away in a police van.

And I worry.

Not just because this will only make things worse - another escalation in tensions in a country teetering on a knife edge, where everyone feels angry or hurt, or both.

Not just because this was another attack on people just trying to get on with their Sunday evening - like any other group of people - like those two weeks ago on London Bridge.

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Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

And not even because London is utterly on its ar*e. A mangled wreck of a thing - Westminster, London Bridge, Grenfell Tower, Finsbury Park.

Four hammer blows, one after another.

I worry because in the rush to start shouting and get even, we have lost sight of the craziness of life in 21st Century Britain today. We are living in mad times.

Yet we don't even stop to realise how bonkers it is that someone just took a white van and drove into people tending an elderly man who had fainted at a bus stop.

We're lost in the confusion.

We're too busy shouting from our soap box to see, so divided across so many fault lines everyone is at odds with someone. No left versus right. Or Muslim versus non-Muslim. Or rich versus poor.

We are multiple points on a spider web diagram, a full 360 of possible points of disagreement, held together by the finest of threads.

JK Rowling was at Twitter today harder than a typist on Tramadol.

Blaming Farage. Blaming me.

Blaming anyone on the opposite end of the political spectrum. Trying to direct the blood-lust of the twitter mob on to the enemies of her truths.

Two police officers are seen helping a victim towards an ambulance car as devastated bystanders watch on in horror following last night's attack

She posted a tweet of Farage with his Brexit poster. Making this about anti-immigration politicians. Directing new hate to his door.

Way up on the moral high ground, Brendan Cox, high priest of the hopers - was on hand to remind us this was all about Islamophobia and that those who preach this hate should be hunted down.

Others called for mass deportations of whites on the right.

Dianne Abbott was up from her sick bed and able to identify this as a certain terror attack within three hours of it occurring. When usually, 'it is not wise to speculate'.

Grenfell Towers stands forlorn in this moment in every sense. Even as we hear the latest update that 79 are feared dead, the possibility of holding the world's attention and importantly the demand for action that comes with it, is disappearing as quickly the camera crews scurrying off to Finsbury.

Jeremy Corbyn was at the scene by 10am - and with him, the gaze of the press.

Jeremy Corbyn was at the scene by 10am (pictured) - and with him, the gaze of the press

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn with interfaith leaders next to the police cordon

Theresa May was there but I expect she will still be criticised for not emoting enough or trying to emote too awkwardly.

Americans are looking over at the U.K. scratching their heads. They wonder how we let ourselves get into such as mess.

The Muslim Council of Britain was speedy in its response, condemning the attack, offering prayers for the injured.

JK Rowling was at Twitter today harder than a typist on Tramadol. Blaming Farage. Blaming me. Blaming anyone on the opposite end of the political spectrum. Trying to direct the blood-lust of the twitter mob on to the enemies of her truths

Even Gerry Adams got in on the act, sending his prayers to the victims of 'more sectarian violence on the streets of London'. He is the expert in such matters I fear.

We are fractious children, bickering over everything, squabbling about who got the biggest portion or the largest share. This is a sinister kids party where the only way to get attention is to behave worse than they shitty kid next to you eating his own toenails.

"It's so unfair". We all shout in each other's faces. 'He hit me first'. We shout back. We pull each other's hair.

We have to stop this. We all have to stop.

Islamist terror, recriminations after tragedy, an attack by a man in a White Van. This bridge, that tower, this city, that.

Perhaps we can find agreement.

Sometimes you have to step a long way back to find something you can agree on - but with a telescope and the best intentions, it can be done.

Surely we can agree the rush to argue or bicker or blame doesn't seem to get us anywhere.

Hopefully we can agree, perhaps that politicking and inaction gets us no where. Rage has to find a home, anger too. And meaningful action gives rage and anger something to hold on to.

Perhaps we can agree meaningful action from our political leaders is not words for the camera, or letters posted on to Twitter, or recriminations or blame.

It isn't small things. Like words. Or hugs. Or long things. Like criminal investigations.

Or physical things. Like more bollards or concrete blocks.

Though these all play a part.

It is deciding that we do want to live together that will make our country safe again. That makes our children less likely to be harmed. And more likely that our loved ones come home to us at night.

Its all ordinary Brits want. To be happy, to pass as healthy and for our kids to be safe.

Whether we like each other is not relevant. I don't need you to like me for us to be able to agree. That is the very worst kind of relationship we would hope for.

I love my husband because he is the opposite of me.

We should hope to be as happily opposed. Able to share our truths without fear of losing jobs or friends.

But united in demanding action to make our country safe again. Whatever we need to do for the tower, the tragedy, the terror - left and right, rich poor, Muslim Christian, we need to do for all.
Energy Secretary Rick Perry told CNBC Monday that he doubted carbon dioxide emissions were primarily responsible for global warming, as he praised climate change skeptics.

'No, most likely the primary control knob is the ocean waters and this environment that we live in,' Perry answered when asked by anchor Joe Kernen if CO2 is what's primarily responsible for warming the planet.

Perry's comments come after Environment Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt said essentially the same thing.

Energy Secretary Rick Perry cast doubt on climate science, saying he didn't think CO2 admissions were the main factor to why earth is warming

Energy Secretary Rick Perry, seen Monday speaking at the SelectUSA Investment Summit, told CNBC that he thought climate change skepticism was healthy

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, now Donald Trump's energy secretary, said he thought it was 'inappropriate' to consider people 'neanderthal[s]' for being skeptical of climate science

Pruitt said on Squawk Box in March that he didn't believe CO2 was what caused climate change.

'I think that measuring with precision human activity on the climate is something very challenging to do and there's tremendous disagreement about the degree of impact, so no, I would not agree that it's a primary contributor to the global warming that we see,' Pruitt said at the time.

When speaking about climate change Monday, Perry didn't outright dismiss the notion that it was happening.

He just argued that the discussion should be different.

'The fact is this shouldn't be a debate about, "Is the climate changing, is man having an effect on it?" Yeah, we are,' Perry said. 'The question should be just how much, and what are the policy changes that we need to make to effect that?'

Like many of his fellow Republicans, Perry cast doubt on the science driving those to action.

'This science, this idea that science is just absolutely settled and if you don't believe it's settled then you're somehow another neanderthal, that is so inappropriate from my perspective,' Perry complained.

'I think if you're going to be a wise, intellectually-engaged person, being a skeptic about some of these issues is quite alright,' the former Texas governor and GOP presidential candidate added.

Until recently, the EPA's website had said: 'Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas that is contributing to recent climate change,' CNBC noted.

That webpage was removed during the advent of the Trump administration.

Other government agencies, including NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, have said CO2 admissions are responsible for climate change.

Striking a more bipartisan tone, Perry pledged that his department was going to make strides in the right direction.

'So the point is, are we going to continue to have innovation that helps effect in a positive way our environment?' he asked himself. 'Absolutely,' the energy secretary answered.

'And I'm excited about what we're going to see coming out of our national labs, coming out of the private sector, working in concert with public and private sector opportunities,' Perry said.

Moving the show along, Kernen complimented Perry for giving a 'pretty good answer' and saying he was 'fine with that,' suggesting the energy secretary had skillfully avoided the political third rail of global warming denial.

'I don't know what the actual penalty is for not believing,' Kernen added.
This police officer in this video provides an exceptional example of how to calm a potentially explosive, violent situation.

A man, armed with a large knife, enters the Huay Kwang police station in Thailand - but instead of being 'banged up in Bangkok' he is met with a huge hug from officer Anirut Malee.

The 45-year-old assailant had entered the station on Saturday night, the incident was caught on CCTV and the video was shared online.

He has a knife but Hero officer Anirut sits down very calmly opposite him with relaxed, slumped shoulders and very non-confrontational body language.

He quickly convinces the assailant to hand over the knife.

When he does, the policeman throws the knife away and approaches the assailant  arms outstretched and embraces the man with a giant hug.

A man, armed with a large knife, enters the Huay Kwang police station in Thailand - but instead of being 'banged up in Bangkok' he is met with a huge hug from officer Anirut Malee

He continues to hug him for a few moments as other people start to gather around.

The assailant then sits quietly on the chair and appears to thank the officer.

Anirut told Thai Visa News: 'He used to be a musician but had been working as a security guard for three days and had not been paid. On top of this he had had his guitar stolen and it was all stressing him out.

Officer Anirut Malee quickly convinces the assailant to hand over the knife

'I heard him out and sympathized and said I had a guitar to give him, and suggested we go out for a meal together. We were conversing in Southern Thai dialect'.

The cop was praised online for his sensible actions.

The unnamed assailant was sent to a hospital for an evaluation of his mental state and no charges were reported.
A 60-year-old man has died after a drunken fight with a pig which saw his genitals mutilated and three of his fingers severed.

Farmer Miguel Anaya Pablo was rushed to hospital in Tuxtepec, Mexico, after suffering the horrific injuries, but medics were unable to save his life.

It is not known why he got into the fight with the animal.

It is not known why the farmer got into a fight with the pig, but he is believed to have been drunk after returning from a party (Stock picture)

The pig, which was in the patio of his home, bit off three of Pablo's fingers and bit his private parts, El Debate reports.

He was taken to the city's general hospital by anxious family members, but died on Sunday morning.

The drunken brawl with the pig happened on Friday morning after he had returned from a party.

The farmer is understood to have suffered a fatal infection, and an autopsy is set to be carried out to confirm why he died.
A pair of frantic adult elephants saved a drowning calf in an incredible display of teamwork by the gentle giants.

The youngster had been standing at the side of a large pool in its enclosure in Grand Park Zoo in Seoul, South Korea, with one of the adult elephants when it slipped and fell into the water.

The stunned adult panicked as it watched the infant struggle to keep its mouth and trunk above the surface.

But help arrived when a second adult, who had heard the commotion, came rushing to the side of the pool.

The pair of adults seemed to communicate silently and decided they would only be able to reach the youngster if they entered the water from the shallow end of the pool.

They hurtled round to the other side of the water and crashed their way across to the baby.

A third adult elephant in the background of the shot was separated from the enclosure by a fence - and was clearly distressed at not being able to provide a helping trunk.

It paced up and down with increasing desperation as it watched the baby elephant flailing around in the pool.

The baby elephant is taking a drink when it slips and falls into the water

The two adult elephants immediately spring into action to save the baby

But the two adults managed to get the situation under control in a display of teamwork rarely caught on camera in the animal kingdom.

They stood either side of each other in the water and lifted the baby up so that its head was above the surface, before guiding the dazed infant towards the shallower end of the pool.

They lift the baby's head up so it can breath before directing it towards the shallows

The baby kept a wide berth of the pool for the rest of the clip - and you can understand why

The bedraggled baby was soon back on terra firma - and kept a wide berth from the edge of the pool until the clip came to an end.

The amazing footage has had more than 459,000 views since it was posted online on Friday - with many commentators expressing the impressive way the adults coped with the crisis.

One said: 'Wow, fast response'. Another added: 'Better than people.'
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Father-of-four Darren Osborne from Cardiff has today been named as the suspect behind the Finsbury Park terror attack

Police were warned the Finsbury Park terror suspect was drunk and unconscious on the front seat of his rented white van 24 hours before he allegedly used it as a weapon to murder and maim Muslims, it was claimed today.

Darren Osborne, 47, was reportedly seen sleeping across the front three seats of the box van in his home town of Cardiff in the early hours of Father's Day.

South Wales Police is yet to reveal if Osborne was still in the van - of if the vehicle was also gone - when they arrived at the scene 30 minutes after the initial 999 call on Sunday.

Hours earlier he was thrown out of his local pub after a drunken night where he started 'cursing Muslims' and vowing to 'do some damage'.

Today it was revealed that the father-of-four had split from the mother of his children Sarah Andrews, 42, six months ago, and was living in a tent in some South Wales woodland.

Friends have described him as a 'bloody psycho' who had a reputation for drunken fights.

One neighbour said the unemployed mechanic was always arguing with people in the street and said: 'Hes always been a complete c*** - but this is surprising'.

His mother Christine Osborne is said to be 'broken' by the attack and said 'sorry' as she described it as being an 'atrocity'.

His sister Nicola, 50, said she cannot bear to watch the videos of his arrest in the aftermath of the attack, adding: 'Hes not political. He wouldnt even know who the Prime Minister is. Ive never heard him say anything about Muslims or anything racist'.

Darren Osborne, 47, is the man accused of ploughing a van into Muslim worshippers in the early hours of Monday morning.

It is alleged that the terror suspect - who was not known to police and MI5 - hired an 80-a-day van from South Wales before driving to the Muslim Welfare House in northLondon.

There, he is accused of mounting the pavement just yards from the Finsbury Park Mosque and mowing down a group of British Muslims.

They were helping Makram Ali, 52, who died minutes later in front of his 26-year-old daughter as those who went to assist him screamed in agony.

A 17-year-old boy is believed to be in a coma after being struck by the van.

Witnesses say that, after the attack, Osborne shouted 'I'm going to kill all Muslims - I did my bit' as he was restrained by members of the community.

The 47-year-old is believed to have grown up in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, but is now said to live in Cardiff, South Wales

Today, police were seen standing guard outside a house in Cardiff home, which Osborne is believed to have previously shared with his partner

Police are searching the property as part of the investigation into the Finsbury Park attack. Only one arrest has been made

His mother, Christine Osborne, (left) said she had last seen her son a month ago and described the attack as an 'atrocity'. It was also revealed he split from his partner Sarah Andrews six months ago (right)

Path of destruction: Osborne is accused of using a 80-a-day van rented in south Wales as a weapon to run down a group of Muslims including at least one in a wheelchair

Regulars at his local pub, the Hollybush in Pentwyn, Cardiff, described Osborne being 'drunk' the night before the attack.

One said: 'He got chucked out as he was so drunk. He was cursing Muslims and saying he would do some damage.'

Another regular at the pub said: 'He's a loud and aggressive person. He's always shouting the odds if anyone disagrees with him.'

Osborne, a jobless mechanic, was said to have consumed with hate after the London Bridge terror attack and reportedly began living in a tent in woodland for two weeks after splitting with the mother of his four children Sarah Andrews, 42, six months ago.

Peter Mackuin, 53 told The Sun: 'Around two weeks ago I saw him and he was a right state. I saw him wandering out of the woods.'

'He looked like he'd been crying. Something was definitely wrong. His missus had been out looking for him as he had been gone all day after a blazing row'.

Hero Imam protected terror attacker from furious crowd trying to kick and punch him The imam who shielded the alleged Finsbury Park attacker from angry reprisals was hailed a hero yesterday. Mohammed Mahmoud, 30, shouted Dont touch him and protected the terror suspect from punches and kicks. The van driver was wrestled to the ground by witnesses and allegedly said Kill me as some of the crowd began to attack him. Mr Mahmoud told how he and others from the nearby Muslim Welfare House managed to surround the attacker and shield him. Taking charge, the 30-year-old religious leader shouted: No one touch him  no one! No one! He said last night: We managed to extinguish any flames of anger or mob rule. We arrived at the scene within minutes and we found the assailant on the floor. He had been restrained by about three people. A group of people quickly began to collect around the assailant, and some tried to hit him, either kicks or punches. By Gods grace we managed to surround him and protect him from any harm. We stopped all forms of attack and abuse that were coming from every angle. Mr Mahmoud said the attacker seemed calm but was heard to say: I did my bit. Advertisement

His neighbours said he is a 'devoted father' who was last seen taking his children to school on Friday - but admitted that he was 'troubled'.

On Sunday morning he displayed community spirit by changing a tap in a neighbour's house  but hours later the father of four allegedly drove a rented van into worshippers in the capital.

He used to host raucous parties with his large family in his back garden in Cardiff, South Wales.

Police today confirmed eleven people were caught up in the attack, including two who were said to be disabled, and one of them - a man - has since died.

His mother and other relatives still live in Weston-super-Mare and his sister last night said she is 'sorry for what's happened.'

Speaking after the attack, his mother Christine said that she had not seen her son in about one month and described him as being a 'complex' person. With her grandson Ellis, 26, who is mixed-race, next to her, she added: 'Darren would stand up and die for Ellis.'

She told the Evening Standard: 'I feel terribly sorry for all of the families hurt by this and for our family too  my mum is going to be broken for life. He's not interested in terrorism. I am very sorry for what's happened'.

It has also been revealed that Osborne split from his partner Sarah Andrews, 42, six months ago.

Osborne's nephew Ellis Osborne, 26, said: 'We are massively shocked - it's unbelievable, it still hasn't really sunk in. We are devastated for the families, our hearts go out to the people who have been injured.'

He said his uncle was 'not a racist', adding: 'Its madness. It is obviously sheer madness.'

Meanwhile, a Muslim who lives next door to Osborne, told The Guardian Osborne racially abused their son on the weekend.

Khadijh Sherazi's 12-year-old son Nadeem said he was on his bike when Osborne allegedly called him an 'in-bred'.

His shocked Muslim neighbour Saleem Naema, 50, a taxi driver, said: 'If I ever needed anything he would come. I just can't believe that he did that.'

In the months before the alleged terrorist attack, Osborne was on a downward spiral and his relationship with the mother of his children was on the rocks, locals said.

Former friends branded Osborne a 'bloody psycho' who had been famous for his temper and would get into fights.

And it was claimed that the heavy drinker once beat someone up using a belt buckle.

A former barmaid at Weston-super-Mare's Market House pub said Osborne was a well-known heavy drinker and troublemaker.

The woman, 40, who did not want to be named, said in the 1990s when she was 18, he grabbed her by the throat and pinned her to the wall as she worked.

'As soon as we saw the pictures today we all recognised Darren  everyone knew him years ago because he was so unhinged,' she said. 'Obviously it's shocking what he's done  but then again it's not surprising he's done something like this because he was always violent and causing trouble.

'He would be troublesome and provocative, he would goad people into wanting to fight and stuff like that. He was chaotic. Sometimes he would come in the pub and sit down and have a drink and be fine, amenable. The next minute he'd be starting a fight.'

One woman in Weston-super-Mare said: 'The words I would use to describe Darren would be a 'bloody psycho'. He is vile. He would just drink too much and flip the switch I guess. I only witnessed one of his fights. It must have been 15 odd years ago.'

And a neighbour living close to the scene in north London, who wished to remain anonymous, today said that the dead man who was killed was in his 50s and had six children.

They told MailOnline: 'He had six children, two of whom were younger and he had a grandson as well. He was very quiet and he didn't even go out for his shopping, he did it all online.

'They are beautiful neighbours, they are very caring and they cook for us at Ramadan. He's an amazing guy and cares about his family. They are devastated by what has happened. People here are very angry.'

Another neighbour Kelly Wanie, 33, who has lived in the area for three years, said: 'He had a son who used to go to the primary school here, Pools Park, but he is now in Year 7 and my son is in Year 3 so I don't see him anymore.

'He always walked with a stick. His daughter said he's got a heart problem.

'One of his children is 26, and another is 17. He was a very quiet man. He had six children and I think two are married.

'One of his daughters heard what had happened and went down and saw him unconscious.

'He had fallen over and people were giving him water and trying to help him and then the van came from nowhere and drove over his two legs and that's when his daughter saw him lying on the road.'

This is the Hollybush pub in Pentwyn, Cardiff, where drinkers have claimed that Osborne was thrown out on Saturday night

Police were forced to hold back crowds as the Finsbury Park attacker was arrested and put in the back of a van following this morning's terror attack

Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

Police gather evidence on the pavement where victims were knocked down including a show belonging to one man hurt in the attack

Mohammed Mahmoud has described how he prevented a mob attack on the Finsbury Park terror suspect just moments after he mowed down Muslim worshippers outside a mosque

Muslim leader Mohammed Mahmoud stepped in when an angry crowd attempted to 'kick and punch' Darren Osborne as he was being restrained by three men following the suspected terror attack.

Moments earlier, a white van had ploughed into a group of people outside the Muslim Welfare House in north London as they left evening prayers.

'You're a bigoted lunatic': Piers Morgan blasts ex-EDL leader Tommy Robinson in furious 20 MINUTE row Former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson was slammed by Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid on Good Morning Britain Former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson was slammed by Piers Morgan as a 'bigoted lunatic stirring up hatred' on Good Morning Britain today. The far-right activist prompted fury after accusing the Finsbury Park Mosque of 'creating terrorists' just an hour after people were mown down outside their place of worship as they left evening prayers on Sunday. Piers later wrote a column for MailOnline claiming that Robinson was a notorious Islamophobe whose subliminal message was clear: they deserved it. And this morning Robinson was told to 'Show some damn respect for people's religious beliefs' by Piers when he produced a copy of the Koran on the ITV show. Mr Robinson prompted fury after accusing the mosque of creating terrorists just an hour after the crazed terror attack. He tweeted: The mosque where the attack happened tonight has a long history of creating terrorists and radical jihadists and promoting hate and segregation. In his MailOnline column, Piers Morgan later said: He insists hes a man of peace who doesnt hate all Muslims. Yet the truth is hes a man of violence who is on the record blaming all Muslims for Islamist terrorism. This morning Robinson became embroiled in a furious debate with the ITV presenters. Piers added: 'You're sounding like a complete lunatic. You're sounding like a bigoted lunatic.' 'You're stirring up hatred. You're being a complete disgrace.' Robinson said the Koran was a 'violent and cursed book', adding: 'This book is the reason we are in such a mess.' Vile rants by far-Right extremists celebrating the Finsbury Park attack were circulating on Facebook and Google last night. A video by Robinson, first published before the attack, was also circulated on Twitter yesterday. In it, he said a disgruntled, angry population would end up cleaning out this Islamic problem. Robinson denies he was inciting hatred. Advertisement

Describing what happened, Mr Mahmoud said he and a 'group of brothers' had managed to 'extinguish any flames of mob rule' as members of the public attempted to hurt the alleged terrorist 'from every angle'.

He added that, despite tensions running high, the father-of-four - who is white - had come away 'unscathed' and remained 'calm and silent' as he was arrested by officers.

He told the BBC: 'By God's grace we managed to surround him and to protect him from any harm.

'We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him that were coming from every angle.'

Mr Mahmoud said that, while the chaos unfolded, a police car drove past which he and some others managed to flag down.

'We told them the situation,' he continued. 'We said "he is restrained, he mowed people down with a van, there is a mob attempting to hurt him, if you don't take him God forbid he might be seriously hurt.

'We pushed people away from him until he was safely taken by police into custody and put in the back of the van.

'It wasn't me alone - there was a group of brothers who were calm and collected and managed to calm people down and to extinguish any flames of anger or mob rule that would've taken charge had this group of mature brothers not stepped in.'

Police confirmed that one person - later named as Mr Ali, who was being helped by a group of people after collapsing outside the mosque - has died. Officers are still investigating whether his death is linked to the terror attack.

But, yesterday, Mr Mahmoud described how the man had 'regained consciousness' moments before the van ploughed into the road.

He also revealed that the deceased's brother was treated for injuries at the scene.

He said: 'The van drove perpendicular to Seven Sisters road. It drove at a 90 degree angle to the direction of the road - it was enough to make some people fly off under the side.

'It dragged two people underneath him - one they were worried might be paralysed because he could not feel his arms and legs.'

Eyewitness Rashid Hassan, 47, told MailOnline he tried to help one injured man who ended up on the ground.

He said: 'I saw four guys on the floor and I tried to help one of them, I was shocked by what I saw. I tried to help an older woman on the floor and then I saw the attacker who was shouting 'I want to kill Muslims'.

'He was very aggressive, he was sweating and shouting. He tried to run away but four or five guys ran after him and pinned him to the ground and they were shouting 'call the police!'

'The police came and surrounded the guy and people left him alone and he was cuffed and police said 'you are safe'. People shouted 'why did you do that?' But he didn't answer. He was swearing at us with his middle finger.

'There were people bleeding on the ground, and crying. The old woman who I tried to help was crying. After that I felt very upset and I am scared this community is very few and we are a minority and people are now saying they want to go home because of it.

'There was a man in a wheelchair who was on the ground as well. We are scared because of what happened here last night.'

Adam Kadar, 40, added: 'We gave the attacker water, we tried to save him and relax him but he was trying to fight us, he was biting people and was aggressive.

'We tried to save him as people were very angry. In our religion, we do not want to kill anyone, so we had to save him.

'As we tried to keep people away he was shouting 'I will kill all Muslims, f****** Muslims. People said 'why are you killing people?' He said 'they're f****** Muslims... leave me alone.

'My cousin broke two of his legs and is in hospital in Whitechapel. His name is Ali Hirsi and he is a teacher and a councillor. He has three children. He came here from Somalia in 1988. He's a very nice person.

'He's a charitable person and does a lot of charity work. Everyone knows him as he's very generous. I have seen him in hospital and said 'I don't blame anyone for what happened.

'We need to be careful ourselves and these terrorist attacks are happened too many times in London. Everyone needs to look after each other.'

Another, Mohamed Abdulrazak, said: 'One of my friends, Hamdi, was on the floor and another guy, an older man, was on the floor as well and another guy with a wheelchair was on the floor outside the coffee shop.

'I was shocked and I started trying to get cars away from the area. Then one police van came and more police started coming and they then told us to move away. I was so shocked I started screaming...I didn't know how to help the injured people.'

Locals took part in a vigil at Finsbury Park in north London just hours after the terror attack which took place near a mosque

People were holding up posters with the hashtag #WeStandTogeter as they gathered to show their support and solidarity after the attack

Locals, worshippers and community figures gathered outside Finsbury Park Mosque on Monday night following last night's attack

Others held up signs which said that 'Love will win, terror will lose' and 'racist terror = ISIS terror' after the attack in North London

Two protesters were seen holding 'no to Islamophobia' and 'no to war' signs close to the scene in Finsbury Park on Monday evening

Daughter saw father die in front of her after terror: Woman rushed to the scene after he collapsed shortly before van hit crowd in attack that saw grandmother, 72, suffer broken ribs Hirsiyo Ali (middle), 72, who is not related to Mr Ali, suffered broken ribs in the attack A woman who rushed to the scene of the mosque attack saw her father die. The 26-year-old arrived as her father Makram Ali, who had collapsed in the road before the attack, was being treated by friends and locals. Mr Ali, 52, had been walking home from the Muslim Welfare House when he became ill  before the van ploughed into the crowd, injuring ten and leaving the pavement painted red in blood. Relatives alerted his daughter, who ran from their nearby home to help, only to witness his tragic last moments. The woman, who has not been named, later said: When I saw him he was conscious and breathing but then he died. Mr Ali had had a pacemaker fitted two years ago and used walking sticks, neighbours said. One, who did not want to be named, said: His daughter told me it ran over his leg. She said the family are very upset by whats happened. Eight of the injured needed hospital treatment, including grandmother Hirsiyo Ali, 72, who is not related to Mr Ali. She suffered broken ribs as the van hit her as she walked home from the mosque. Her granddaughter Najma Ahmed, 16, said their family had been left heartbroken and in shock. The schoolgirl added: I visited my grandmother in hospital today and she looked very injured and she couldnt open her eyes. A disabled man suffered a gash to his head but escaped with his life after being pushed partly out of the way of the van by his deaf friend. The deaf man has lived around here for years and was very brave, said a witness, who gave his name as Athmane. I could see him trying to push the man in the wheelchair away from the oncoming van but the vehicle still hit the man in the chair and he was badly injured. Before the van hit anyone I heard tyres screaming and then I saw the van going very fast. The driver knew exactly what he was doing. He knew he was targeting people who had come from the mosque after saying prayers. Another man suffered broken legs, a broken arm and injuries to his chest and is in a coma, a relative said. His cousin, named Felin, told LBC the van came out of nowhere. A man called Mohin said his cousin was also injured in the attack. The 32-year-old said: I was in hysterics. I went through [the police cordon] and I saw bodies all over the floor. There were teenagers. I have never seen that much blood in my life, the road was painted red. Forensic officers move the van from the attack site at Finsbury Park. The incident led to the death of Makram Ali, whose daughter saw him die Advertisement

Footage shows the alleged driver of the van being arrested at the scene and bundled into a police van - he screamed 'kill me' in the hope witnesses to his Islamophobic attack would seek retribution

Shocking: This is the moment the Finsbury Park mosque terror suspect turned to the crowd from inside the van and was filmed blowing a kiss to them and said: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'

This dramatic footage shows the suspect being pinned to the floor by worshippers (left) before being handed over to police (right)

'It's a shame they don't hire out tanks or steamrollers', says mosque attack van owner's son A Facebook post believed to be by the son of the van hire company owner has sparked outrage after he said it was a shame it did not hire out steam rollers or tanks. The message on Richard Gear Evans Facebook page said: Its my dads company I dont get involved its a shame they dont hire out a Steam Rollers (sic) or Tanks could have done a tidy job then. Evans said he works for freight company Eddie Stobart. The firm described the comments as reprehensible and added: We have taken immediate action. Jacky Clark wrote in response to the post, which had been copied and shared on the social networking site, several times: I hope that someone draws this to the attention of the Police and to FaceBook for it is utterly disgusting. Jan Bailey wrote in the Stobart Facebook group: Richard Gear Evans is the son of the man who owns Pontyclun Vans, which the terrorist used to plough into Muslims today. Disgusting comments from him. He works for Eddie Stobart. Janet Monks wrote: Disgusting. Please do not think all Welsh people share his view. Advertisement

A woman, who is in her 70s, is also believed to have been injured in the attack.

A neighbour, who did not wish to be named, told MailOnline: 'Her relatives told us that she was hit by the van and suffered a broken back and broken ribs.

'She is really nice lady and would always say hello. She lived on her in the flat but her family would visit her often.'

Today, police were seen standing guard outside a house in Glyn Rhosyn, Pentwyn, where Osborne is believed to have lived with his partner.

Osborne, who was taken to hospital last night as a precaution, was arrested this morning on suspicion of attempted murder.

He has now been further arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder.

According to public records, Osborne was born in Singapore in 1969.

He is believed to have grown up in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, but later moved to South Wales. He is said to have separated from his partner six months ago.

One former school friend, who attended Broadoak Mathematics and Computing College with Osborne, said he had known him for more than three decades.

Referring to a picture of the suspect at the scene of the attack, he told MailOnline: 'I've known him for 35 years, I grew up with him. It's 100% him. He lives in Wales, he has four kids and his partner.'

Neighbour Pauline Tibbs, 48, said it had been a 'terrible shock'.

'The police have been back and forth here all day. It's a terrible shock,' she said. 'I've seen him walking in the street but never spoken to him. He seemed normal enough. He has lived here a couple of years and kept himself to himself.'

And another man who lived near Osborne's home said: 'I arrived home from work to find the street crawling with police - it's a complete shock.'

Osborne is alleged to have hired the van from Pontyclun Van Hire, 15 miles away from his home in the Welsh capital.

Owners at the company today hit out at the 'cowardly' attack, saying they were 'shocked and saddened' that one of their vehicles was used in the attack.

It is then claimed that he ploughed his white van into a crowd of Ramadan worshippers helping an elderly man who collapsed in the heat, killing one and injuring at least ten more at 12.20am yesterday morning.

The suspect - who suffered a black eye and cuts to his face and hands - was later filmed repeatedly shouting 'kill me' to the men who grabbed him.

Officers held back crowds after arresting the terror suspect who was smiling, waving and even blowing kisses, with police today praising the 'restraint' shown in aftermath of the van attack.

Witnesses said he 'deliberately' drove onto the pavement outside north London's Muslim Welfare House - yards from the Finsbury Park Mosque - and jumped out of the cab shouting 'I'm going to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'.

But as he tried to run from the scene a group of men gave chase and were filmed pinning the suspect to the floor before dragging him along the road as bodies lay strewn across the ground.

The group were leaving taraweeh, late night prayers observed during the festival of Ramadan, when the van struck. One victim was stuck under its wheels and a group managed to life the vehicle and pull him out.

In footage taken at the scene, worshippers are seen pinning the suspect to the ground and held him until police arrived (left). In another clip, the suspect is seen waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van (right)

Two police officers are seen helping a victim towards an ambulance car as devastated worshippers watch on in horror following last night's attack

On Monday evening, hundreds of locals, worshippers and community figures gathered outside Finsbury Park Mosque to show their support after the attack.

Bishop Adrian Newman said: 'We can see what a wonderfully diverse community we have here in Islington, and London. An attack on one faith is an attack on all. We stand in solidarity, shoulder to shoulder and side by side.'

Rabbi Herschel Gluck added: 'The attack last night only affected 10 people but that's only who was affected psychically, it was an attack on every Muslim in the UK and beyond.

'We are one nation, under one God, living together and working together and co-operating together.

'We have to realise that there is more that unites us than divides us.'

Mahmoud Bin Abdullah, 53, from Enfield: 'I think this has united people. It's a sad event but the message getting across is that we are united.

'It's fantastic when people come together, it's a given a true aspect of Islam that's very welcoming. It was a shock hearing about the attack but sometimes the silver lining is that it will be an eye opener for both sides and they will come to a mutual understanding, no one is a winner and need to unite.'

Bhupinder Singh said: 'We come together because this is an attack on all faiths. We live in London where there is a multicultural community...the community came together at Grenfell Tower and has done again.

'We need to make sure we carry on and we don't want to give any oxygen to hate. We need to show why we are proud to be Londoners, and come together.'

Theresa May has called the terror attack - the fourth in Britain since March - 'sickening' and said Islamophobia appears to have been the motive before visiting the mosque yesterday afternoon (pictured with the Met Commissioner Cressida Dick and Rabbi Herschel Gluck, president of Shomrim in Stamford Hill (right) with Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House (second right)

The terror attack is in Jeremy Corbyn's Islington constituency and he also went to the mosque to meet north London's faith leaders and members of is Muslim congregation

Forensics teams have sealed off the area where the van ploughed through a crowd and into this dead-end street before the attacker jumped out

The vehicle in question appears to have been rented from a company based in Wales, Pontaclun Van Hire

Police forensic officers examining the van involved in the attack: British Home Secretary Amber Rudd said police 'immediately' treated the incident as a suspected terrorist attack

The local community have been making signs and leaving messages celebrating the diversity of the area in the wake of the attack

Flowers have began to pile up in Finsbury Park after a van hit worshippers in north London praying during Ramadan

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House (pictured left), said the suspect had shouted 'I did my bit' after carrying out the attack - Metropolitan Police deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu (right) praised the 'restraint' of those who restrained the suspect

Officers are today pictured at the scene as police confirmed last night's attack is being treated as a terrorist incident

Pictured above are details of the vans available (left) at Pontyclun Van Hire in Pontyclun, South Wales (right), from where the van used in the attack was hired. The website says anyone hiring a car will need to take a driving licence and proof of address

The van was first seen on Seven Sisters Road in north London were it mounted a pavement yards from the area's mosque hitting an elderly man who had collapsed in the heat

Jeremy Corbyn was overcome with emotion as he visited the scene of the terror attack in his north London constituency

Flowers are pictured at the scene of the attack. This note describes the crime as 'hideous' and says: 'This crime is not who we are'

Outside Downing Street the Prime Minister Theresa May described the Finsbury Park as 'another terrorist attack on the streets of London - every bit as sickening as those that have come before.'

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Mrs May said the attack had 'once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives - this time, British Muslims as they left a mosque, having broken their fast and prayed together at this sacred time of year'.

The attack is fourth terror attack in Britain since March - one in Manchester and three in London - claiming 36 lives so far.

Finsbury Park terror attack came after warnings of anti-Muslin backlash Sajid Javid speaks to an Imam at the scene of a terror attack in Finsbury Park yesterday as he said the Government was supporting the Muslim community in the wake of the attack The van attack yards from Finsbury Park Mosque follows warnings of an unprecedented anti-Muslim backlash after recent terrorist atrocities. Police in London recorded a spike in the number of Islamophobic incidents in the wake of the London Bridge outrage earlier this month, with 20 recorded on June 6 - compared with a daily average of 3.5. It was the highest daily tally for 2017, and also higher than the numbers registered after the Paris attacks in November 2015, and the murder of Lee Rigby in May 2013. In a speech last week, a former police chief warned that anti-Muslim sentiment online has been 'relentless' following the London Bridge attack on June 3. Mak Chishty, an ex-Metropolitan Police commander who had been the country's most senior Muslim officer before his retirement, said: 'The backlash has been something of a different scale.' While the circumstances and suspected motivations behind the Finsbury Park incident are yet to be made clear, it comes amid mounting concern over far-right extremism in the UK. Warnings that the threat could be growing were raised after the conviction of Thomas Mair for the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox last year. The Government's Prevent and Channel programmes, which work to intervene before individuals are drawn into violent extremism, have seen a rise in the number of referrals linked to far-right ideology. Counter-terrorism police have said that, while the threat is not of the same gravity as that posed by Islamic State or al Qaida, there are extreme right-wing groups attempting to provoke violence and sow discord. Figures on terror-related arrests have shown an increasing number of white suspects are being held. In the year to the end of March, there were 113 arrests of white people, compared with 68 in the year before - an increase of 66%. The white ethnic group accounted for 37% of all terrorism-related arrests in the 12 months, compared with 26% in the previous year. Statistics on individuals' ethnicity are not broken down by type of suspected extremism. Dr Alan Mendoza, executive director of the Henry Jackson Society think tank, said: 'Coming a year after the murder of Jo Cox, we have witnessed what appears to be another hateful act in the community. 'It is looking increasingly likely that this is the latest example of a growing threat of far-right extremism in the UK. 'The Government must ensure urgently the security services have all the resources they need to investigate and prevent extremism-inspired attacks of whatever origin.' Advertisement

She added: 'Today we come together, as we have done before, to condemn this act and to state once again that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed.'

Mrs May said that the attack on Muslims was 'every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life' as the recent string of terror attacks apparently motivated by Islamist extremism, adding: 'We will stop at nothing to defeat it.'

She later visited the mosque and spoke to faith leaders with Met Commissioner Dick.

As details of the attack emerged, the Muslim Council of Britain condemned the incident - which took place shortly after the congregation finished Ramadan evening prayers - as 'the most violent manifestation' yet of Islamophobia and called for extra security around mosques.

The Met Police has now vowed to put extra security around mosques at this 'sensitive time' as Muslims continue to mark the holy month of Ramadan. Mr Basu said it was an 'incredibly challenging time for London' with emergency services 'stretched' but that officers would do all they could to keep people safe.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan also urged people to 'remain calm and vigilant' and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick has said the attack was 'quite clearly an attack on Muslims'.

Video posted online of the aftermath of the attack show scenes of chaos as people tried to help the injured.

One man could been seen giving CPR to a victim in the street while another man's head injury was treated with a makeshift dressing. People could be heard shouting and screaming amid the chaos and bloodstains were visible on the pavement.

Further dramatic footage from the scene shows the suspect - who was described as looking 'indifferent' and 'like he didn't care' - waving as he is bundled into the back of a police van.

At the time of the attack, which was just after midnight, several people were heroically giving first aid to an elderly member of the public who had collapsed at the bus stop with a medical issue.

Other witnesses to the attack early on Monday morning have also described how they wrestled the suspected terrorist to the ground - but stopped others from hitting him until officers took over.

Adil Rana, 24, who was outside the mosque when the van drove towards the crowd, said the driver gestured towards and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police.

He added: 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying: 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again.''

Describing the initial moments after the van careered into pedestrians, he went on: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said: 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Footage captured on mobile phones at the scene shows the van driver being held on the ground as people call for police.

A man can be heard urgently shouting: 'No-one touch him - no-one! No-one!'

Abdulrahman Saleh Alamoudi said he was among a group of people helping an elderly worshipper who had fallen down, perhaps because of the heat, when the van swerved towards them.

He told BuzzFeed News: 'Luckily I managed to escape. And then the guy came out of his van and I got him.

'He was screaming, he was saying: 'I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims.' He was throwing punches.

'Then we managed to get him on the floor. Then he was saying,: 'Kill me, kill me.' I said: 'We are not going to kill you. Why did you do that?' He wouldn't say anything.'

Mr Salah Alamoudi said he had also helped to hold the suspect on the ground for up to half an hour before police arrived.

'The guy, I had to keep him at least half an hour. He was a strong guy. A big man,' he said.

Eyewitness Hussain Ali, 28, said that, while being restrained, the man was protected by the people he is thought to have been targeting.

He said: 'The leader of the mosque said: 'You do not touch him'. He was sitting and holding him like that, people kept holding him.'

The police then arrived and cuffed him.

As well as the one confirmed fatality, police said a further nine casualties are being treated across three London hospitals for 'serious injuries' while two victims sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Mr Basu also confirmed that the probe was being handled by terror the Counter Terrorism Command. Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed the incident is being treated as a potential terror attack and called an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee.

Speaking this morning outside Scotland Yard, Mr Basu said: 'Sadly Londoners are are waking up to the news of another dreadful incident in the capital that has left a number of people seriously injured.

'This was an attack on London and all Londoners and we should all stand together against extremists whatever their cause. Now is a time to unite those who seek to divide us.'

He added: 'I would like to praise the police officers who immediately responded gave life saving treatment at the scene, but also very much those members of the public who assisted before and after this incident.

'At the scene, detained by members of the community, was the man suspected of being the driver. He has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

'I would like to thank those people who helped police in detaining the man and who worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him in to our custody. Their restraint in the circumstances is commendable.'

Confirming the fatality, he added that the incident unfolded while a man was already receiving first aid.

'Any causative link between his death and the attack will form part of the investigation. It is too early to say whether his death is a result of the attack,' he added.

Today, Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, said the suspect had shouted 'I did my bit' after carrying out the attack.

He told Sky News: 'After the event, he did say 'I did my bit'. It means he is not mentally ill, he is conscious, he did what he did deliberately to hit and kill as many Muslims as possible.'

He added that the imam - who had been leading the evening prayer, known as taraweeh - had saved the suspect's life after he ploughed the van into a wall and fences and other members of the public began beating him.

'He hit almost a wall and fences at the end of the road because it was a dead road. So people grabbed him outside and starting hitting him,' he added.

'Our imam went there and saved the life of the attacker. There is a wild video which you can see filmed by one of our worshippers and you can see clearly our imam saving the life of this guy and the guy at this time was saying 'I did my bit'.'

Another witness, who wanted to be identified as Abdulrahman, which is not his real name, said he was one of the people who helped to remove the driver from the van.

'He wanted to run away and was saying, 'I want to kill Muslims',' he said.

'So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, until the police arrived.'

Abdulrahman claimed the driver said 'kill me' as he was held on the ground.

Abdikadar Warfa said he also helped to detain the suspect while his friends helped victims.

'I saw a man underneath the van. He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van, I was busy with a man who tried to escape. My friend said he said some words, but I didn't hear it,' he said.

'They (people who were hit) were mostly young. They are very bad. I tried to stop him (the suspect), some people were hitting him but I said stop him and keep him until the police came.

'He was trying to run away but people overpowered him. He was fighting to run away.'

Local resident Abdul Abdullah, 18, who was also at the scene, described the suspect as looking 'indifferent' and 'like he didn't even care'.

Ms Abbott, 63, arrived at the mosque after the terror attack in the early hours of Monday morning when a van struck a number of people

Police were called just after midnight to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road - it later emerged it was another terror attack

After the attack the man was reportedly tackled by civilians, and a crowd of angry bystanders gave him to police

A pile of blankets can be seen, amid fears that there may have been fatalities in the attack

The Prime Minister is chairing an emergency meeting of the Cobra Committee this morning, as Sadiq Khan ordered more police to be deployed

A police cordon has been set up at Seven Sisters Road this morning as officers flood the scene outside the Muslim Welfare House

Heavily armed police officers remain at the scene this morning as leaders called for security to be stepped up at mosques

A police forensic tent has been erected at Finsbury Park as counter-terrorism units take over the investigation

Brave bystanders wrestled the suspect out of his van and to the ground, while they waited for police officers to arrive

Dozens of paramedics raced to the scene in the early hours, as several casualties were taken to hospitals around the capital

Shocking eyewitness accounts had earlier revealed how the van raced down the bus lane before swerving down a dead end road and mowing down members of the public.

Van was rented in small South Wales village Police today swooped on a small Welsh village van hire company after their 80-a-day vehicle was used in Finsbury Park mosque attack. Officers arrived at 7.30am at the offices of Pontyclun Van Hire - more than 160 miles away from the London mosque. Staff at the company were interviewed by officers at their depot in Pontyclun, 12 miles north of Cardiff. Company staff declined to comment but one neighbouring worker said: 'This is a nightmare for them. They are completely innocent.' One member of staff said: 'We are not saying anything, we don't know anything at the moment.' Owners of a van hire company today hit out at the 'cowardly' attack on the Finsbury Park mosque in one of their vehicles hired more than 160 miles away. The company staff were 'shocked and saddened' that one of their vehicles from Pontyclun Van Hire near Cardiff, South Wales, was used in the attack. And the family-owned company pledged to help police with their investigation into the mosque outrage. Police today swooped on a small Welh village van hire company after their 80-a-day vehicle was taken for the attack. A spokesman for the company said: 'We at Pontyclun Van Hire are shocked and saddened by the incident that took place at Finsbury Park last night. 'We are co-operating fully with the Metropolitan Police investigation and our thoughts are with those who have been injured in this cowardly attack. 'We will not be making any further statement because of the on-going police investigation but will continue to assist the police in any way we can.' Officers arrived at 7.30am at the offices of Pontyclun Van Hire 168 miles away from the London mosque. Advertisement

Adil Rana, 24, said he saw blood and 'people dead on the floor' in the aftermath.

'The van was driving towards us to try and basically hit us at speed and everyone was shocked and people were screaming. There were people on the floor,' he said.

Mr Rana, from Walthamstow, said he also saw the driver being held on the ground by some of the crowd after getting out the vehicle.

He said: 'The driver jumped out and then he was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam of the mosque actually came out and said 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Mr Rana said the driver gestured and mocked the crowds as he was taken away by police. 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again',' he added.

Emergency service crews were also seen giving cardiac massages to the injured in a desperate bid to save them, but unconfirmed reports that two other suspects fled the van were denied by police.

The police operation is being handled by counter-terrorism units, while the suspect has been taken to hospital and will be detained once he has been discharged, and will then face a mental health assessment.

Today, police and forensic officers were seen scouring the area for clues as the terror investigation got underway.

Flowers were handed to police, who put the tributes inside the cordoned off area. One tribute reads: 'This hideous crime is not who we are. Finsbury Park represents the best of London. Love and tolerance.'

Staff from a local cafe were also seen giving coffees and bottles of water to officers guarding the scene.

Police said the suspect had been taken to hospital as a precaution and would be taken into custody once discharged and subjected to a mental health assessment in due course.

Some witnesses at the scene said more than one attacker may have been involved.

But the Met said: 'At this early stage of this investigation, no other suspects at the scene have been identified or reported to police, however the investigation continues.'

Meanwhile, a member of staff at Pontyclun Van Hire said the company would not be issuing a statement. She said: 'We are not saying anything, we don't know anything at the moment.'

The website shows that anyone wanting to hire a vehicle must show their driving licence and a utility bill or bank statement featuring a current address.

Today, police interviewed staff at the company, which is based 12 miles north of Cardiff.

The Finsbury Park Mosque gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by hate preacher Abu Hamza, who was imam from 1997 until 2003 and was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 for his conviction on terrorism-related charges.

A new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Abu Hamza was arrested by British police.

Since the, the mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar.

Attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosque's website.

Mr Kozbar, described the incident as 'a cowardly attack which is no different than the attacks in Manchester and London'.

'Our community is in shock, our thought and prayer with those who have been affected by this,' he said.

A group of Muslims prayed on the pavement following the atrocity. The incident has been slammed as a 'violent manifestation of Islamophobia', with Muslim leaders calling for extra security around mosques

How mosque known for hate cleric Abu Hamza transformed itself into a pillar of the community Abu Hamza preached at the mosque from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence The award-winning Finsbury Park Mosque is a beacon for community relations and works tirelessly to promote a better understanding of Islam. In 2014, it became the first Muslim place of worship in the UK to be handed the prestigious Visible Quality Mark by national body Community Matter, for combatting extremism. Finsbury Park Mosque was the first mosque and the third faith organisation in the country to receive the award. However it gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 for his conviction on terrorism-related charges. A new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Hamza was arrested by British police, since when attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosque's website. Hamza preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States and jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015. In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MCB to promote better understanding of Islam following Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks in Paris. The mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar. However despite the change in leadership and a new focus on inter-faith relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the terror attacks in Paris. The mosque said it received hate mail following the radical cleric's conviction for terrorist charges, adding: 'Despite being free of radical Islamic cleric Abu Hamza for more than a decade, Finsbury Park mosque still suffers from its former association.' The Finsbury Park Mosque has undergone wholesale changes and become far more liberal under new leader Mohammed Kozbar In a statement posted on its website today, the Finsbury Park Mosque said it 'condemns in the strongest terms a heinous terrorist attack'. 'The van driver deliberately mowed down Muslim men and women leaving late evening prayers from Finsbury Park Mosque and Muslim Welfare House just after midnight,' the statement said. 'This is a callous terrorist attack, which coincides with the murdered MP, Jo Cox, anniversary.' The mosque's chairman, Mohammed Kozbar, described the incident as 'a cowardly attack which is no different than the attacks in Manchester and London'. 'Our community is in shock, our thought and prayer with those who have been affected by this,' he said. The statement added: 'Finally, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. 'We urge all attending mosques and going about their business to remain vigilant in this difficult time.' Advertisement

The incident comes almost three months to the day since Khalid Masood killed five people after mounting the pavement at Westminster Bridge and stabbing a police officer to death

Khuram Butt lies dying in Borough Market shortly after he was shot by armed police following another incident involving a van on London Bridge
A teenager who resorted to trying to sell child-pornographic material as a desperate attempt to earn money has dodged a jail sentence.

After obtaining eight gigabytes of unlawful material the 18-year-old was caught by police and appeared in court on a number of child exploitation material charges including obtaining, possessing and disseminating the online files.

Judge Jack Costello was told the man had initially been approached by a fellow online gamer who asked if the youth could hold some files in exchange for cash, Perth Now reported.

A teen who tried to sell child-pornographic material to earn money dodged jail after he was caught by police with eight gigabytes of unlawful material

The then 17-year-old first off rejected the offer however eventually agreed to download the files and store them.

Upon receiving payment the youth deleted the files however a year later, when the man urgently needed money, he turned to the explicit material as a source of income.

He downloaded the eight gigabytes of unlawful files 'in the hope that others might be interested in paying you money to have access...' Judge Costello said.

The activity was quickly picked up by police who raided his home and took possession of his laptop.

Police said the man co-operated with police through their investigation where 250 files were found.

He appeared in court on a number of child exploitation material charges and was ordered to serve jail time however his sentence was fully suspended

The court heard the man had suffered a hard-time growing up after being kicked out of home at 16 and had attempted suicide twice.

'Although your offending was apparently actuated by the prospect of material gain, I am satisfied that the real motivation for committing these offences was ... one borne of need rather than greed,' Judge Costello said.

'I would categorise your offending behaviour as the actions of an immature and naive young man struggling to deal with psychological unrest in his life.'

The man was ordered to serve one year and six months in jail with a non-parole period of 9 months however his sentence was fully suspended.
Charges are still pending in the case against Caleb Scroggins, 21, but he has been arrested

Fourteen hostages in New Mexico have been rescued from a pistachio farm in the southern part of the state.

Police identified the suspect as Caleb Scroggins, 21, from Alamogordo near El Paso who was already wanted in connection with a shooting earlier in the day.

During a search, police found Scroggin's vehicle and a chase began.

The pursuit only ended after Scroggins was forced off the highway after being t-boned.

At that point, he ran out of the car and straight into McGinn's Pistachio Farm store where he took 14 hostages.

During negotiations, the State Police Tactical Response Team secured the perimeter and Scroggins surrendered peacefully soon after with none of the hostages coming to any harm.

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New Mexico State Police officials rescued 14 hostages in an incident that was the result of an earlier shooting and pursuit in southeast New Mexico

A police pursuit ended when Scroggins crashed into another vehicle along Highway 54 that contained multiple occupants. It is unclear if they were injured in the crash

Scroggins was a suspect in an earlier shooting. He has an extensive arrest record, which includes battery, concealing identity, breaking and entering, and multiple charges of possession of a controlled substance and resisting, evading or obstructing a police officer

Police say they believed Scroggins to have been armed when he took the hostages, however he was not armed when he surrendered.

'The Sheriff's office worked very swiftly to talk the suspect out. He gave himself up. Didn't have a weapon on him at the time but were going to go through the scene and see what's in there,' said New Mexico State Police Chief Pete Kassetas to Fox News.

Scroggins, who was treated for injuries from the car crash during the police chase, has a long criminal history including battery of a household member, concealing identity, breaking and entering, possession of a controlled suspect and resisting, evading or obstructing an officer.

Charges against Scroggins for Sunday's incidents are still pending.

Courtesy KOB 4
A dentist appeared in court on Monday following the mysterious disappearance of his lawyer wife which is now being treated as a murder investigation.

Dr Majid Mustafa, 47, has been charged with conspiring to administer a noxious substance to Renata Antczak, 49, who has been missing for eight weeks.

Hull Crown Court heard Mustafa also faces another charge of conspiring to cause a man called Dariusz Kleinert grievous bodily harm with intent.

Dr Majid Mustafa (left) is charged with conspiring to poison his wife Renata Antczak (right)

Humberside Police launched a murder investigation following her disappearance last Friday.

Mustafa appeared an hour before Robert Lipinski, 45, who is jointly charged with administering a noxious substance to Renata.

Lipinski is further charged with conspiracy to administer a noxious substance to Anna Lipinski.

They both spoke to only confirm names and addresses after appearing in the dock.

Ms Antczak was last seen eight weeks ago near her home in Hull after she had dropped her daughter off at school

Mustafa, who donned a blue shirt and trousers with a brown belt, sat quietly through the hearing and showed little emotion.

Lipinski addressed the court through a Polish interpreter.

Speaking to the two defendants during the six minute hearing, Recorder of Hull Judge Jeremy Richardson, QC, said: 'You are remanded in custody.

Humberside Police have launched a murder investigation int the disappearance

'The defence statement is a crucial document and it must be served by the due date.

'You are remanded in custody - you can now go.'

Both Mustafa and Lipinski will next appear at Hull Crown Court later in the year for a case management hearing in September.

Renata was last seen near hear home after dropping her daughter off at school.
As Senate Republicans write an Obamacare repeal behind closed doors, their Democratic colleagues plan to protest the GOP's moves in public.

Politico reported that starting Monday night, Democrats will halt Senate business by turning down ordinary requests, like scheduling votes or lengthening committee meetings, in order to disrupt business and highlight what the Republicans are up to.

This comes at the same time some Senate Republicans are urging their peers to cancel August recess, in order to finish the health care repeal and move on.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. (right) is ready to have his fellow Dems disrupt Senate business to shed light on the Republicans crafting their Obamacare repeal bill behind closed doors

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. (center), wants Republicans to vote on health care before July 4, but it's looking unlikely that date will stick

Republican Sens. David Perdue, R-Ga. (left) and Daniel Sullivan, R-Alaska (right), are both supportive of canceling August recess to get more work done on the health care bill, the budget and tax reform

With Democrats in the minority, the only thing the party can do is put up procedural hurdles.

'Republicans are drafting this bill in secret because they're ashamed of it, plain and simple,' Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. told Politico.

'These are merely the first steps we're prepared to take in order to shine a light on this shameful Trumpcare bill and reveal to the public the GOP's true intentions: to give the uber-wealthy a tax break while making middle class Americans pay more for their health care coverage,' Schumer added.

Republicans want to bring the health care bill directly to the floor for a vote, instead of making it go through committee.

Democrats are trying to get the House version of the bill into a committee, to stall the GOP's efforts.

As for the status of Senate Republicans, they're not close to a deal on health care and most likely won't be able to schedule a pre-July 4 vote, as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., would have liked, according to the Hill.

Without passing health care, Republicans can't tackle budget appropriations, which means tax reform and other appropriations bills can't move forward.

And without the passage of an Obamacare replacement, Republicans won't have scored any major legislative victories this calendar year, despite having control of the White House and both houses.

The biggest win was confirming new Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch.

All of these factors point to extending work into August, which is typically a month-long summer recess for lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

'I think theres a majority that probably supports being here,' Sen. David Perdue, R-Ga., told the Hill about staying in D.C. through part of August.

Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, told the newspaper he agreed.

'I think absolutely we should truncate or cancel recess,' Sullivan said. 'We have a huge agenda. I think we can get a lot of it done, but what we don't have is time.'

'We can make more time,' the Alaska Republican added.

An unnamed Senate GOP aide, however, doubted that Majority Leader McConnell would approve the move.

'Are they going to get all 52 Senate Republicans to do this?' the aide mused to the Hill. 'Perdue and Sullivan talking is fine, but every time members say they need to stay and work over a recess there's usually a [congressional delegation] trip somewhere.'

Over at the White House, Press Secretary Sean Spicer was asked questions about the health care bill during Monday's off-camera briefing.

It was reporters' first opportunity to ask the Trump spokesman if reports were true that said the president had called the House health care repeal bill 'mean.'

'I'm not going to comment on rumors that came out of a private meeting,' Spicer said, refusing to confirm or deny that was the adjective used.

More broadly, a reporter asked Spicer if he president had any complaints about Senate Republicans writing their bill behind closed doors, something that Republicans had grumbled about as Obamacare was being authored.

'I can't say I've actually asked him,' Spicer said. 'I mean, this is more of a Senate process question.'

Spicer pointed out that Schumer said he wouldn't aid any effort in repealing Obamacare.

'So it's not that they were shocked that after he let it be known that they didn't want to work with people, it's a little odd that now they're saying, "you're not working with us,"' Spicer said.

Spicer said that the White House feels 'very good about the process that's happening.'

Though, again, didn't mind the secrecy the Republicans were employing.

'I don't think the president gets involved in deciding how the Senate does its business,' Spicer answered.
A body has been found in the search for missing Colorado pastor Paris Wallace, 52, who went missing last week while searching for hidden treasure

A body has been found in the search for a pastor who went missing in New Mexico while hunting for hidden treasure.

Paris Wallace, 52, was reported missing by his worried wife on Wednesday, when he failed to show up to a meeting.

The Colorado pastor told family that he was looking for a treasure trove of about $2million in gold that was hidden by author Forrest Fenn somewhere in the Rocky Mountains.

Police found Wallace's abandoned car near the Taos Junction Bridge, with receipts inside showing he purchased rope and other supplies at a local store.

Pieces of torn rope were located a short distance from the vehicle.

The Taos Junction Bridge crosses a tributary of the Rio Grande river.

The body was recovered on Sunday about five to seven miles downstream from where Wallace left his car.

Authorities are still confirming the identity of the body.

On Sunday, Fenn issued a statement to CBS This Morning saying: 'My heart and my prayers go out to his family and his church...this is such a tragedy.'

Wallace's car was found near the Taos Junction Bridge (pictured in 2008). His body was found five to seven miles downstream

Author Forrest Fenn, 86, (left) buried the treasure in 2010 and includes clues and maps for his readers to find it in his books. Treasure hunter Randy Bilyeu (right) died last year looking for the chest

Wallace's car was found in Pilar by another reader who went looking for him in the area after a friend posted about his disappearance in a forum set-up for the treasure hunters. His backpack and rope was discovered in Espanola later

Fenn says he hid the treasure in 2010, and publicized it during an interview with CBS in which he read a poem with clues to the chest's location.

Fenn, 86, encourages readers to follow clues in his two books - Thrill of the Chase and Too Long For Walking - to find the treasure.

The author said he buried the goods in 2010 and that the treasure hunt is his way of encouraging families to get outdoors and spend time together.

He told DailyMail.com: 'It is terrible news that the man has gone missing. I pray that he will be found safe and well.

'If I were 10 years younger I would be out looking for him myself.

'It is unfortunate that hundreds of hunters and hikers are lost each year in our forests and waterways.'

Fenn says the chest is Roman in appearance (similar shown above) and contains $2million worth of gold and jewels

The Thrill of the Chase and Too Far To Walk contain clues which point to the chest's whereabouts

In rules on a website about the hunt, he stipulates that readers should never attempt the search alone.

If the body is Wallace's, he will become the second man to die looking for Fenn's treasure.

Randy Bilyeu was looking for the same hidden treasure when he disappeared in January 2016.

The father-of-two's remains were found in July. Afterwards, his grieving widow said she believed the entire treasure hunt was a hoax.

'We're disappointed that he lost his life because of a treasure hunt

'There's no treasure - it's not real. He lost his life for a hoax,' she told The Albequerque Journal.

Pilar, New Mexico, where Wallace's car was discovered last week (file image)

A friend of the author defended the hunt on Sunday when contacted by DailyMail.com.

'Forrest has said many things which people should pay attention to [including] dont go anywhere a 79 or 80 year old man cant go, the chest is not hidden in a dangerous place, and dont search alone in the mountains, yet people still look in the Rio Grande.

'They feel they need to check out cliff faces using mountaineering skills and they try crossing raging, ice cold mountain rivers. There is no need for this. Forrest intended this treasure hunt to get kids off the couch and away from their video games.

'It is an adventure aimed at families. Folks who try these stunts with no experience other than watching reality TV programs are foolish and apparently cant read or listen well to the guidance offered by the only person who knows where the chest is located,' Dal Neitzel, who operates a blog about the hunt, said.
A leading Hillsborough campaigner has urged Grenfell Tower relatives to 'get mobilised' amid growing calls for corporate manslaughter charges to be brought against those responsible for the disaster.

Margaret Aspinall called on grieving relatives to use the example of Hillsborough to ensure that authorities and building firms were properly held to account.

It comes amid fears of a Grenfell Tower cover-up, with police urged to carry out urgent raids on offices at the centre of the investigation into the deadly inferno.

The Prime Minister and the Metropolitan Police have been pressed to seize any potentially-incriminating evidence before it can be destroyed.

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Leading Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall has urged Grenfell Tower relatives to 'get mobilised' amid growing calls for corporate manslaughter charges

Hillsborough campaigner Ms Aspinall spoke to Omar Alhajali (right), the brother of Grenfell victim Mohammed Alhajali (left)

Fears are growing of a Grenfell Tower cover-up, leading to calls for raids to take place on offices at the centre of the investigation into the deadly inferno

Council chiefs and building firms could face manslaughter charges over the disaster, in which at least 79 have been killed, a former Director of Public Prosecutions said.

And Labour MP David Lammy demanded urgent action, claiming contractors were expunging details of their work on the tower from their websites.

The government had also given every council in England until the end of today to write up an urgent list of buildings cladded with the same material as Grenfell.

Samples of any 'aluminium composite' panels on buildings more than 60 feet tall must then be sent away to be fire tested.

Hillsborough campaigner Ms Aspinall spoke to the brother of Grenfell victim Mohammed Alhajali on BBC Radio 5 Live.

Ms Aspinall, who lost her 18-year-old son James in the 1989 tragedy, said: 'You can imagine the state he was in, God love him.

Labour MP David Lammy demanded urgent action, claiming contractors were expunging details of their work on the tower from their websites

Many residents who gathered outside the smoldering ruins of the building said the fire had been caused by a faulty fridge in one of the flats

'I told him youve got to start demanding answers and have transparency and openness about everything as the authorities will try and palm you off.

'I said that they might not feel like it now but they [victims families]need to get together and stick together.

'There wasnt a proper fire drill at Grenfell Tower and somebody had only got fire alarms just three days before the blaze happened. What a disgrace.'

Mrs Aspinall was chairwoman of the Hillsborough Family Support Group and a leading light in the long campaign for justice for the 96 victims of the tragedy.

She added: 'It was great when we got together as a group, for Hillsborough,to fight the system.

'It all takes time but its about concentrating so that this sort of incident doesnt happen again.'

Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders confirmed there was a criminal investigation into the fire that killed at least 79 in the early hours of Wednesday.

By mid morning, the plastic cladding could be seen charred and melted on the tower in west London

This aerial photo taken hours after the fire ripped through the tower block shows the devastating scale of the inferno

Former DPP and Labour MP Sir Keir Starmer told BBC1's Andrew Marr Show: 'I spoke to the DPP yesterday and there are prosecutors already in, advising the police.

'There are wider regulatory offences, but I think manslaughter is the most serious and that's the one that needs to be looked at first.'

Meanwhile, Mr Lammy warned that 'everyone culpable' for the disaster would avoid justice should they be given the opportunity to 'quietly destroy' document.

He said: 'Within the community, trust in the authorities is falling through the floor and a suspicion of a cover-up is rising.

'The Prime Minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law. of the law of the law of the law of the law.

'We need urgent action now to make sure that all records and documents relating to the refurbishment and management of Grenfell Tower are protected.'

Mr Lammy added that justice can only done if all records, including emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence, safety assessments and reports - are preserved.

Mr Hammond was challenged by the BBC's Andrew Marr today on why the material - which is banned in America and Germany - was used on British homes

He said: 'When the truth comes out about this tragedy we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations.

'At this stage, it is my grave concern that the families of Grenfell Tower will not get justice if documents are being quietly destroyed and shredded and emails are being deleted.'

Mr Lammy, whose friend Khadija Saye died in the fire, said police had the power to seize all documents.

However he added that Section 35 of the Public Inquiry Act, which makes the destruction of any documents a criminal offence, does not apply until a chairman is appointed to an inquiry and the terms of reference set.

Harley Facades, which was paid 2.6million to supply and fit the cladding, said it had removed the Grenfell Tower page from its website 'as a mark of respect'.

The plastic panels  that even the manufacturer warned were a deadly fire risk  are banned on high-rise buildings in Britain, ministers said yesterday.

Chancellor Philip Hammond said the probe would look at whether regulations had been breached at the tower in North Kensington.
The older brother a teenage backpacker raped and murdered in India took a fatal overdose after blaming himself for her death, their mother has said.

An inquest heard Halloran Richard Keeling, 28, was found dead in temporary accommodation after taking an overdose of morphine.

A coroner said there was insufficient evidence to conclude that he had intended to take his own life.

But outside the hearing, mother-of-nine Fiona MacKeown said her oldest child did not got over 15-year-old Scarlett Keeling's brutal rape and murder in India back in 2008.

Scarlett Keeling (pictured) was murdered when she travelled to Goa, India, in 2008, and her brother Halloran Richard Keeling (right) blamed himself, their mother said

Their mother said he was traumatised over what happened to his little sister Scarlett (pictured)

Halloran had been due to go on the family holiday to Goa, where Scarlett was found dead almost 10 years ago but had been unable to get his passport sorted in time.

Their mother, 52, said Halloran felt directly responsible as he believed he would have protected her from harm if he had been on the trip.

She said he had battled mental health problems from a young age and overdosed on several previous occasions but was traumatised over what happened to Scarlett.

She said: 'He was very close to Scarlett. He couldn't have done anything and was not to blame at all, but he didn't accept that.

'He just felt if he had been there he could have looked after her. He wanted to come on the trip to Goa but couldn't get a passport in time.

'He just never got over his sister's death. He was not stable at the time and blamed himself because of his mental health.

'He thought if he had got his passport sorted out he would've been able to look after her. He tried to block it out with overdoses.

'He feels that if he had been there he would have had been able to protect her. He felt hopeless. The whole thing is so distressing. He would overdose on a regular basis at my house.'

Mother-of-nine Fiona MacKeown (pictured) said her oldest child did not got over 15-year-old Scarlett Keeling's brutal rape and murder

The inquest in Truro, Cornwall, heard that Halloran was found dead on August 29, 2016, in temporary accommodation for vulnerable people in Newquay.

He had taken an overdose of morphine - but it could not be proved whether or not he did it intentionally.

Senior coroner for Cornwall Emma Carlyon concluded that he died of a drug-related death.

The inquest heard Halloran - who had studied music at a college in Plymouth, Devon, before being transferred to Newquay - had a history of mental health problems and drug use.

In a statement to the inquest, Ms MacKeown said: 'He became depressed at 15.

'He would self-medicate with cannabis. At about 16 or 17 he had to leave as his behaviour got bad.

'I was advised to just chuck him out, basically.'

The inquest heard Halloran had been prescribed diazepam from the age of 15 and later morphine after he was hit by a car and broke his neck.

Her mother Fiona MacKeown (pictured) told an inquest that her son Halloran had never got over his sister's murder and blamed himself because he wasn't there to protect her

Halloran had been due to go on the family holiday to Goa, where Scarlett (pictured) was found dead almost 10 years ago

But he also took other illicit substances and had been hospitalised many times for overdosing - not intentionally - on prescription drugs.

In a statement, psychiatric nurse Susie Theobald told the inquest Halloran had been deeply affected by the death of his sister.

She said: 'He had a significant life event trauma when his sister was sexually assaulted and murdered in 2008.'

She added that Halloran had experienced 'physical abuse from his mother's partners from the age of four'.

Ms MacKeown added outside the inquest: 'I am just gutted we never saw him get better.

'I do think he could have and the mental health system failed him.'

She said she was still involved in an ongoing battle to get justice for her daughter.

Placido Carvalho, 49, and Samson D'Souza, 37 were charged with killing Scarlett but acquitted in 2016.

Vikram Varma, who represents the teenager's family, said India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have appealed the decision.

A hearing to decide on whether to allow the evidence to be heard again started today on the same day of the inquest.

Ms MacKeown added: 'I don't have faith in the justice system because they have never done a full investigation.'



For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, or see samaritans.org for details.
Brussels has announced plans to ban a cancer-linked chemical - but it is also found in one of Belgium's signature favourites.

The European Commission's move to ban acrylamide could see the end of the country's famous crispy fries, which contain the allegedly hazardous compound.

Belgium, which claims to have invented 'fries', says the move to ban acrylamide will change the way they taste and destroy the country's 'rich gastronomical tradition'.

Ben Weyts, tourism minister and member of Belgiums ruling coalition, yesterday threw his weight behind a campaign to convince the Brussels executive to change its mind.

Belgium, which claims to have invented 'fries', says the move to ban acrylamide will change the way they taste and destroy the country's 'rich gastronomical tradition'. Belgian crispy fries are traditionally eaten with a bowel of muscles

The European Commission's move to ban acrylamide could see the end of the country's famous crispy fries, which contain the allegedly supposedly hazardous compound

He said: It is important to be mindful not to take measures that have unintended and far-reaching consequences for our rich gastronomic tradition, he wrote in a letter to Brussels food policy commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis.

Our fries owe their flavour to the craftsmanship of our chippies, who fry chips raw and then fry them a second time,' Mr Weyts wrote.

I understand that outside our country they have different cultures.

But we have our own cultural tradition. It would be a shame if the European Union prohibited it.

Banning crunchy chips would be a crime, the MP wrote.

Ben Weyts, tourism minister and member of Belgiums ruling coalition (left), yesterday threw his weight behind a campaign to convince the Brussels executive to change its mind.

If acrylamide is banned, Belgian chip shops will no longer be able to double-fry chips - a technique that makes them crispier.

Double-frying - once for the soft inside, then again at a higher temperature for the crunchy outside - is considered the secret to making the perfect chip.

But under the commissions new rules, potatoes will have to be pre-treated prior to frying.

The commission wants to ban acrylamide, which is also found in other foods including crisps and roasted meat, because scientific studies suggest links with cancer.

The Belgians claim their invention, chips, was stolen by the French and renamed French fries.
A doctor has been jailed for lying on his CV to get a 55,000-a-year job at a medical research centre.

Oswald Wong, 33, faked that he was a member of the General Medical Council to land the role.

Fraudster Wong was given a post administering drug trials to volunteers and treating reactions to the medication - despite not having any medical qualifications to work in Britain.

A court heard he was qualified to work in the United States but used false references in applications for medical jobs in Cambridge and Wales.

Fraudster, Oswald Wong, 33, faked that he was a member of the Genereal Medical Council to land a role administering drug trials to volunteers and treating reactions to the medication - despite not have any medical qualifications in Britain

Prosecutor Rachel Knight said: 'He applied to work with a company called GW Pharmaceuticals in Cambridge.

'They offered him a senior spot which he accepted.'

But Miss Knight said Wong could never take up the job because of the fake references he provided on his CV.

'Without a reference, GW would not take him on,' she said.

The court heard Wong then applied for a role with Simbec Research Ltd in Merthyr Tydfil, for 55,000 in November last year.

But his potential employers became suspicious after Wong offered no evidence of his General Medical Council registration on his CV.

Miss Knight said: 'The GMC had no record of him registering as a doctor.

'He would have been expected to administer drugs and had anyone had a reaction to the drugs, he would have had to deal with that.'

Wong was given a starting date in late November but could not begin until he provided proof of his GMC registration.

The court heard Wong then applied for a role with Simbec Research Ltd in Merthyr Tydfil (pictured), for 55,000 in November last year

Wong was employed at Simbec Research Ltd in Merthyr Tydfil on a salary of 55,000 in November last year

'He did not seem to appreciate the importance of providing the correct documents,' Miss Knight said.

Wong later withdrew his application and never treated any patients. But the court heard bosses at Simbec reported him to medical authorities.

The court heard Wong had medical certificates to work in the USA and other countries but had failed medical exams in the UK.

Wong, of Luton, Bedfordshire, admitted two counts of fraud and was jailed for eight months at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court.

Judge Tracey Lloyd Clarke said: 'This was a sophisticated fraud involving forging documents and considerable time and care would have gone into drawing up fake details on your CV.'
Vice President Mike Pence's family surprised him for Father's Day by presenting him with a new puppy named Harley and a kitten named Hazel.

The new additions come just a week after the Second Family announced the death of their beloved cat Oreo at the vice president's official residence at the Naval Observatory in Washington DC, and nine months after the passing of another dog.

The Pences also have an older cat named Pickle and a rabbit, Marlon Bundo, who has gained celebrity status - and an impressive internet following - after stealing the spotlight during recent White House events.

Paws and claws: Vice President Mike Pence's family surprised him for Father's Day by presenting him with a new puppy named Harley (left) and a kitten named Hazel (right)

Welcome home: Pence, his wife, Karen, and their two daughters are pictured on board Air Force Two with their newest furry companions

The vice presidents wife, Karen Pence, shared on Twitter that they picked up the grey-and-white kitten Hazel during their weekend trip to their home state of Indiana.

'And...for Father's Day, we surprised @VP with an Indiana puppy! Introducing Harley! Mrs Pence said in a follow-up tweet, which was accompanied by photos of the latest four-legged addition to the Pence family licking the veep's face and snuggling with his wife.

Another image shared on Twitter showed the Pences and their two daughters posing with their two newest furry friends on board the vice presidents Air Force plane.

Pence's Press Secretary Marc Lotter posted another sweet snapshot of his boss with the pooch, tweeting that the 'New Second Dog - Harley - got his fist ride on Air Force Two with @VP. Next exploring the grounds & house at Vice Presidential Residence.'

Meow: Karen and daughter Charlotte look excited to meet Hazel, whom the family picked up this weekend during a trip to Indiana

Paw-tastic present: Harley was presented to Vice President Pence as a Father's Day gift

New friends: Harley is seen relaxing next to the cage of Marlon Bundo, Pences' famous pet rabbit

The Pences' 13-year-old black-and-white cat Oreo passed away a week ago, prompting Karen Pence to take to Twitter and share a heartfelt message mourning the familys loss.

'Rest in peace Oreo. You touched a lot of hearts in your little life. Our family will miss you very much,' the tweet read.

Harley and Hazel join the Pences' surviving feline friend, Pickles, and Marlon Bundo, the famed bunny, who is jokingly known as 'BOTUS (Bunny of the United States ) and has his own Instagram account boasting more than 13,000 followers.

Recent loss: A week ago, the Pences lost their 13-year-old cat, Oreo (pictured)

Mike Pence & Co moved to Washington DC ahead of the inauguration with their menagerie in tow, including Bundo and Pickles the cat (pictured at the bottom)

An Insta-post written from Bundos perspective on Monday read: My grandparents brought some new siblings home for me to play with! They should go to Indiana every weekend! @hazelnharley.

It was accompanied by a photo showing Harley relaxing next to Bundos cage.

Two weeks before the elections, then-vice presidential candidate Pence revealed on Twitter that his 13-year-old pet Beagle, Maverick, passed away.
A Southern California teen raised about $15,000 to send an 89-year-old Holocaust survivor to Israel so the man can meet his last living relative and finally receive his bar mitzvah, according to a newspaper report Monday.

Drew Principe, 17, said he came up with the idea for a fundraiser after meeting Henry Oster during a school assembly in January.

Oster told students at Viewpoint High near Los Angeles about his experiences during World War II.

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Southern California high school student Drew Principe, 17 (left), helped raise $15,000 to sent Holocaust survivor Henry Oster, 89 (right), to Israel for the first time

The two left on Monday for their trip. Pictured above during a local television interview

In 1941 he and his family were deported by Nazis from their home in Cologne, Germany, a few weeks before he was supposed to celebrate his bar mitzvah, a Jewish coming-of-age ceremony generally held at 13.

They were taken to the Lodz ghetto in Poland, where his father died of starvation working 12-hour shifts in the agricultural fields. When the ghetto was liquidated, Oster and his mother were sent to Auschwitz where she was gassed on arrival.

Oster was sent to a few different camps before being liberated at 17 by the U.S. Army at Buchenwald.

After the war, he was sent to an orphanage in France, before an uncle in Los Angeles read his name in a list of survivors and invited him to come to the U.S. to live with him.

During his trip to Israel, Oster (pictured at the Buchenwald concentration camp in 2015) will meet his last living relative, a cousin who lives in Tel Aviv

Oster (far right, at Buchenwald) was at the camp when it was liberated by the U.S. Army in 1945. He lost both of his parents in the war, his father of starvation at the Lodz ghetto and his mother to the gas chambers of Auschwitz.

Oster arrived in the U.S. in 1946, finished high school and went on to tstudy optometry at UCLA. He had a private practice in Beverly Hills which he ran for 60 years before selling it to retire in 2007.

Principe was so moved by Oster's speech that he went to another q-and-a session after it, where he was surprised to learn that Oster had never visited Israel.

After the session was over, Principe went up to Oster and offered him a bracelet he received on his trip to Israel, which as the Shema, a Jewish prayer, inscribed on it.

'It really is a gesture that cannot be measured,' Oster told the Ventura County Star about the gift. 'I don't wear jewelry, but I have not taken this off except for the shower.'

After the war, an uncle in America invited Oster (left) to live with him and he went on to become a Beverly Hills optometrist. He now speaks out about his experiences as a Holocaust survivor. Drew Principe pictured on the right

Oster later reached out to the school's headmaster to properly thank Principe. Soon after the two had lunch with Principe's mom and thus began a 'life-changing' friendship.

Earlier this year, Principe wrote a letter to family and friends, explaining how Oster had never been to Israel and how he wanted to send him there as a gift. The letter was passed around the community and soon $15,000 was raised for the trip.

'It kind of brought the community together,' Principe said. 'It was incredible to watch.'

Oster and his wife Susan along with Principe and his family left on Monday for Israel, where Oster will meet for the first time his last living relative, a cousin who lives in Tel Aviv, and be formally recognized by the Israeli Holocaust memorial as a survivor.

He will also celebrate the bar mitzvah he never had.

Ultimately, Oster said, he decided to accept the offer and have the ceremony in memory of those who died and will never have the chance to experience the ceremony.

'I decided to honor my father and my parents and ... the desecrated Torah and all the victims who never had a chance,' Oster said.

Oster met his wife Susan in 1998, and they married in 2001. Though his wife he has four step-children and six step-grandchildren.
The White House told Russia on Monday that it reserves 'the right to self defense' after the Kremlin warned it would track US-led coalition aircraft in Syria as potential 'targets' and halted an incident-prevention hotline with Washington after US forces downed a Syrian jet.

'I think that the escalation of hostilities among the many factions that are operating in this region doesn't help anybody,' White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said 'and the Syrian regime and the others in the regime need to understand that we will retain the right to self defense of coalition forces aligned against ISIS.'

Spicer told a reporter later that he was not saying the US is on the brink of war with Russia amid an escalation in tensions that came after the Syrian government attacked a US-backed group that is fighting ISIS.

The US says an SU-22 operated by the Syrian regime was dropping bombs on the Syrian Democratic Forces when it was shot out of the sky by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet.

This US Navy photo shows an F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2016. The US says an SU-22 operated by the Syrian regime was dropping bombs on the Syrian Democratic Forces, a group that is aligned with the US, when it was shot out of the sky by a Super Hornet

White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said Monday that the 'Syrian regime and the others in the regime need to understand that we will retain the right to self defense of coalition forces aligned against ISIS'

Russia is now vowing to shoot down all coalition planes and drones west of the Euphrates with its advanced 'Growler' missile system - which covers most of the country

The United States moved quickly to contain the situation on Monday, with a top general saying Washington would work to relaunch the 'deconfliction' hotline with Russia that was established in 2015.

A Pentagon official told Russia that it would not back down, however, after Russia threatened to make US planes its targets.

'We do not seek conflict with any party in Syria other than ISIS, but we will not hesitate to defend ourselves or our partners if threatened,' Pentagon spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis told Fox News.

The downing of the jet and Russia's response came as the US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State jihadist group from its Syrian bastion Raqqa.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, although the risks remain high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields and airspace.

Russia's foreign ministry accused Washington of failing to use the hotline before downing the plane near Raqqa, and called for a 'careful investigation by the US command' into the incident.

'Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as aerial targets by Russia's air defenses on and above ground,' it warned.

At a press conference on Monday, Davis said the countries were still speaking to each other about their operations.

'I'm confident that we are still communicating between our operations center and the Russia federation operations center,' he said. 'And I'm also confident that our forces have the capability to take care of themselves.'

Department of Defense spokesperson Major Adrian JT Rankine-Galloway promised that coalition aircraft would not be cowed by Russia's threats.

He said they would continue conducting 'operations throughout Syria, targeting ISIS forces and providing air support for Coalition partner forces on the ground.'

'As a result of recent encounters involving pro-Syrian Regime and Russian forces, we have taken prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria so as to continue targeting ISIS forces while ensuring the safety of our aircrew given known threats in the battlespace,' he said.

The area west of the Euphrates - as well as much of the country - is covered by Russia's 'Growler' anti-aircraft defense system, which has a range of 250 miles and can hit targets up to an altitude of 90,000 feet.

The system has been deployed on the Latakia Airbase on the Syrian coast; Russia has been providing air cover for Assad's troops since 2015.

'We will work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to re-establish deconfliction,' said US General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, referring to the hotline.

Russia's foreign ministry accused Washington of failing to use the hotline before downing the plane. 'We will work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to re-establish deconfliction,' said US General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said Monday of the communications

Dunford noted that the hotline, which has been vital in protecting both US and Russian forces operating in Syria, remained in use 'over the last few hours'.

The Syrian jet was shot down on Sunday evening after regime forces engaged the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance of Arab and Kurdish fighters battling IS, near Raqqa.

An American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 as it 'dropped bombs near SDF fighters' south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

Russia's defense minister said the pilot ejected 'above IS-controlled territories' and that his fate is unknown.

Earlier Sunday, Syrian troops attacked the SDF near Tabqa, wounding several and chasing them out of town, the coalition said.

It said the warplane was shot down in line with the 'rules of engagement'.

But Damascus and regime ally Moscow condemned the 'aggression'.

The Syrian army said the plane was hit while 'conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group' and warned of 'the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression'.

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said it was a 'continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law'.

'What is this if not an act of aggression?'

It was the latest skirmish between the coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

Members of Ahmad Jarba's Syrian Elite Forces, fighting alongside the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces ride a truck in a neighborhood on the eastern front of Raqqa on June 14. The coalition backs SDF forces in their months-long bid to capture Raqqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved

The coalition backs SDF forces in their months-long bid to capture Raqqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Syria's army has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where regime forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital.

It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along the eastern border.

But the advances have created conflict with the coalition, particularly along Syria's border, where the US and its allies are training an anti-IS force at the Al-Tanaf garrison.

Earlier this month, the coalition fired on pro-regime ground forces who approached the garrison and shot down a pro-regime armed drone.

Russia halted the hotline only once before, after an April 7 US cruise missile strike on a Syrian regime airbase in retaliation for a suspected chemical weapons attack that killed dozens of civilians.

Sam Heller, a Syria expert at The Century Foundation think-tank, said the regime was provoking confrontations, but neither side appeared to want a major escalation.

'I think that it was just that the regime engaged in a provocation and then a lower-rung US commander responded in self-defence,' he said of Sunday's incident.

'The regime got too close and it got burned.'

A Pentagon official told Russia that it would not back down, however, after Russia threatened to make US planes its targets. 'We do not seek conflict with any party in Syria other than ISIS, but we will not hesitate to defend ourselves or our partners if threatened,' said Pentagon spokesman Jeff Davis

But provocations by Syria's government and its allies were a potentially risky strategy, he said.

'It doesn't look like anyone currently intends to deliberately escalate further, but when you've got these little skirmishes... the risk is that you can end up in an escalation by accident.'

On Monday morning, the area where the regime and SDF fighters clashed was quiet and the US-backed alliance was continuing to battle IS inside Raqqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said.

Government forces meanwhile seized the town of Rusafa, south of Raqqa, a key stop on its path to Deir Ezzor and located near provincial oil and gas fields, it added.

Syria's war began in March 2011 with anti-government protests, but has since spiralled into a complex and bloody conflict that has killed more than 320,000 people.

Syria's rebels are now on the back foot after regime advances with support from allies Russia and Iran.

On Sunday, Tehran for the first time fired missiles from its territory against IS positions in Deir Ezzor.

It said the missiles were 'in retaliation' for June 7 attacks in Tehran on the parliament complex and shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini that killed 17 people and was claimed by IS.

On the diplomatic front, a fresh round of Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital Astana has been scheduled for July 4-5, the Kazakh foreign ministry said.
A Georgia man is accused of killing a neighbor, stealing his car and kidnapping a Missouri woman before finally being apprehended in Kansas after a 1,000-mile crime spree, authorities said Monday.

Prosecutors in Georgia have charged John Czarnecki, 53, with murder in the death of Abraham Rudolph Jacobs, 56, along with armed robbery.

In addition, Czarnecki, who hails from Atlanta, Georgia and his traveling companion, Christopher Smith, 43, of Cave Springs, Georgia, are charged with kidnapping, robbery and armed criminal action in Missouri.

They are jailed in Kansas on $1million bond and do not yet have attorneys.

The investigation into their crime spree began on the morning of June 15, when a woman in her 40s stepped out of a Wal-Mart store in Cape Girardeau, Missouri and a man put a knife to her side and forced her into her Jeep, police said.

One of the suspects then drove the Jeep to a cornfield in Chaffee, Missouri, about 15 miles away, while another man followed in a Suzuki SUV.

Police said the woman was robbed of a debit card and diamond ring before she was let go, unharmed. The men  later identified as Czarnecki and Smith  then drove away in the Suzuki SUV.

John Czarnecki, 53, of Atlanta, Georgia has been charged with killing his neighbor, Abraham Rudolph Jacobs, 56, then stealing his car and kidnapping an unnamed Missouri woman

Christopher Smith, 43, of Cave Springs, Georgia is charged with kidnapping, robbery and armed criminal action in Missouri. He is not believed to have been involved in Jacobs' death

Surveillance footage from a Missouri Wal-Mart showed that Czarnecki (pictured) went inside the store with Smith before they allegedly kidnapped a woman from the parking lot outside

Smith (pictured) also went inside the Missouri Wal-Mart before he and Czarnecki allegedly kidnapped a woman. Smith is charged with kidnapping, robbery and armed criminal action

The woman's debit card was later used at a Missouri convenience store. Surveillance images showed the license plate indicating the SUV belonged to Jacobs.

A police report said officers went to Jacobs' apartment in Chamblee, Georgia, an Atlanta suburb, and found nothing there.

After discovering that Jacobs and Czarnecki were friends, authorities checked Czarnecki's nearby apartment and found Jacobs' body buried amid debris in the kitchen area, the Southeast Missourian reports.

'I think there was some sort of altercation that escalated, and (Czarnecki) took his car,' Chamblee police Capt. Ernesto Ford said.

Czarnecki's crime spree began in Cave Springs, Georgia, where he alleged murdered his neighbor and stole his car. He then allegedly kidnapped a woman in Missouri before he was caught 1,100 miles from his start point in Kansas

Czarnecki (pictured) was captured on surveillance footage at a Missouri convenience store, using the debit card he stole from the woman he and smith kidnapped outside a Wal-Mart

Authorities have not yet released information on how Jacobs died.

Police do not believe Smith was involved in Jacobs' killing, but was picked up by Czarnecki along the route. It wasn't clear how or why they ended up in Missouri.

Kansas Highway Patrol trooper Steve LaRow confirmed that the men were arrested by the patrol and the US Marshals Service Friday night in Grinnell, a small town in western Kansas.

LaRow declined to say what led police to the suspects or give any details about the arrest. Phone messages seeking comment from the Marshals Service were not returned.
Frank Redding , 32, was arrested on Saturday in North Smithfield, Rhode Island

A groom has been arrested at his wedding reception for assaulting restaurant employees and smashing up the venue in a booze-fueled rampage, police say.

Frank Redding , 32, was arrested on Saturday at the Pines Restaurant and Banquet Hall in North Smithfield, Rhode Island and has pleaded no contest to charges of simple assault and vandalism.

Police responded to a call about a large fight in the parking lot of the event space.

Cops were told that Redding had gone out of control after a staff member confronted him about drinking alcohol he'd brought in from outside the venue.

Staff at the wedding reception confronted Redding about alcohol that was brought in from outside the venue. That's when police say he went on a rampage, threatening to kill staff

Redding allegedly smashed up chairs and bottles inside the event space. He has pleaded no contest to vandalism and simple assault charges

Redding chased the staff member back into the restaurant, threatening to kill him, and physically assaulted another staff member, police say.

The nettled newlywed also smashed up bottles and chairs inside the venue, WPRI reported.

Under the plea agreement, Redding received a year of probation and a one-year suspended sentence.

He was also ordered to pay for any damages to the restaurant and remanded to jail for a six-month sentence on prior unrelated charges.

Redding has multiple prior convictions for assault, domestic assault, and breaking and entering, court records show.
Three art dealers have been indicted in New York City court for allegedly making and selling fake Damien Hirst prints, then using them to swindle $400,000 from dozens of buyers around the world.

Vincent Lopreto, 52, of New Orleans, Louisiana, Marco Saverino, 34, of Cottonwood, Arizona and Paul Motta, 50, of Sedona, Arizona, have been charged with third and fourth degree grand larceny, as well as first degree scheme to defraud, among other charges for selling the counterfeit art, the Manhattan District Attorney's office announced today.

Court documents stated that between October 2015 and February 2017, the three men stole $400,000 from art buyers by selling them fake prints that they claimed were limited edition pieces made by the English contemporary artist.

Vincent Lopreto, 52, of New Orleans, Louisiana was indicted in a New York City court on Monday. He is charged with grand larceny and scheme to defraud for his part in forging Damien Hirst prints and selling them to unsuspecting buyers, cheating them of $400,000

Fake: Lopreto is accused of using a stamp, printer and other tools to create fakes of Hirst's works  including this phony print of Hirst's 'Esculetin'  which were then sold as limited editions

The real deal: Vincent Lopreto, 52, Marco Saverino, 34, and Paul Motta, 50 are accused of tricking unsuspecting art buyers from around the world into thinking they were buying genuine editions of Damien Hirst's famed 'Spot Paintings,' similar to this real work, entitled 'Adenosine'

Among the pieces that the trio faked and pawned off on buyers was a print of Hirst's work, 'Esculetin.'

'The art markets demand for limited editions can lead to fake pieces with little value,' Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance, Jr. said in a statement.

'In this case, the alleged fraud went beyond plain imitation, and the defendants are charged with deceiving a multitude of buyers into purchasing counterfeit art that was falsely passed off as genuine.'

Lopreto is accused of using a stamp, printer and other tools to create the phony Hirst prints, court documents said.

Lopreto allegedly used a stamp and printer to create the forged Hirst prints (seen here) that he and his collaborators sold as the real thing

He then allegedly partnered with Saverino and Motta to use online sites, including eBay, to advertise the fake Hirst prints as being limited edition pieces that Hirst had signed  works that were worth thousands of dollars a piece.

Court documents also detailed the fact that the three men created fraudulent authenticity certificates and purchase receipts to convince their victims into believing that the fakes were genuine.

The items Lopreto is said to have used to create the forgeries were seized after authorities executed a search warrant at his home in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Lopreto was arrested and jailed on June 15 and voluntarily agreed to return to New York on June 16 to avoid an extradition hearing, The Times-Picayune reported.

The dozens of victims of the art fraud hailed from the US, UK, Germany, Italy, Macedonia, South Africa, Canada, Taiwan and South Korea.

Lopreto was arrested in New Orleans on June 15 and agreed to voluntarily travel to New York City to avoid an extradition hearing. He was indicted on multiple charges on Monday

Lopreto previously pleaded guilty to forging and selling Damien Hirst (pictured) prints in 2014. He was sentenced to two to four years in prison. Fifteen days after being released, he was indicted in a New York City court for participating in the same art faking and selling scheme

One Manhattan resident alone was conned into making four phony purchases.

Two additional sales were made to an undercover investigator who was pretending to be an art buyer.

'There is no substitute for due diligence  to avoid becoming a victim of fraud, I encourage prospective buyers to confirm an items authenticity with the artist, advertiser, or an academic expert prior to making a significant investment,' Vance said.

Among those credited with aiding in the investigation into the art forgeries were authorities from Arizona and New Orleans, as well as the Hirst Authentication Committee, PayPal and eBay, according to a statement from the Manhattan DA's office.

This isn't the first time that Lopreto has run into legal trouble for knocking off art and selling it to unsuspecting art collectors.

Today's charges actually came just 15 days after he was released from jail for having pleaded guilty to the same scheme back in 2014.

In January 2014, Lopreto was charged with first degree identity theft and scheme to defraud after he and his business partner, Ronald Bell, 49, of the Jazzartz gallery in Laguna Beach, California, allegedly sold forged Hirst prints to art buyers.

The New York Post reported that among the forged works that tripped up Loreto and Bell was a faked print of Hirst's 'Valium,' which they sold on eBay for $2,000  a mere fraction of what the real deal has sold for at auction.

Lopreto was sentenced to two to four years in state prison and served three years for the 2014 forgery sales.
An interview with Costa Rica's president was interrupted when he received an unwelcome guest - directly into his mouth.

President Luis Guillermo Solis was giving a press briefing about an asphalt plant in Paso Real, Puntarenas, when he is cut-off mid-sentence by the invading insect.

The wasp is filmed hovering around the seemingly unfazed president's face, before meeting its ultimate demise - inside Mr Solis' mouth.

President Luis Guillermo Solis Rivera was giving a press briefing about an asphalt plant in Paso Real, Puntarenas, when he is cut-off mid-sentence when the invading insect

Seemingly unfazed by the insect's close proximity, the president continues his press briefing regardless

'I ate it, I ate the wasp!', he said in front of a laughing entourage, camera crews and journalists.

Luckily, President Solis was able to see the funny side of his latest 'meal', as he is handed a bottle of water.

'You don't see that every day - they're going to send it to CNN, pure protein!', he added.

The wasp is filmed hovering around the president's face, before meeting its demise - inside Mr Solis' mouth
A man from Oklahoma has been arrested and charged with sexual misconduct after authorities say he got a teenage girl drunk and then climbed into bed with her and proceeded to fondle her.

Jason Drylie, 35, of Yukon, was taken into custody on June 12 and booked into the Canadian County Jail the next day on charges of lewd acts with a child under the age of 16 and providing alcohol to a minor stemming from an incident that occurred in May.

According to the Canadian County Sheriffs Office, Drylie admitted that he got into bed with the teenager for the purpose of assaulting her, but the victim managed to get away from him.

Jason Drylie, 35, of Oklahoma, has been arrested and charged with sexual misconduct after authorities say he got a teenage girl drunk and then climbed into bed with her

Drylie's arrest came after the girl told her mother about the incident, and the woman then contacted the local authorities.

According to a report by NewsOK, the assault took place last month during a sleepover at Drylie's house, where there were multiple children present.

The victim said Drylie, who has been married for more than a decade, offered her multiple alcoholic beverages and sent her text messages encouraging her to continue drinking.

The girl later reported consuming so many beers that she was left feeling 'numb and tingly.'

When the teen went to bed that night, Drylie allegedly followed her and laid down next to her wearing just his underwear. The 35-year-old man then allegedly proceeded to touch and kiss the child.

The incident took place at Drylie's home in Yukon (pictured) during a children's sleepover in May

The 16-year-old eventually jumped out of bed and ran to the bathroom, where she locked herself in.

When county sheriffs deputies later examined the contents of Drylie's cellphone, they reportedly found a text message in which the man apologized for his behavior to the victim.

The man has been released from jail after posting $51,000 bond.
Houston County Circuit Judge Kevin Moulton wrote in a Friday 22-page order that there is no evidence the state purposely delayed the case against Kharon Davis who has been in jail for a decade

A judge is refusing to dismiss murder charges against an Alabama inmate who has been held in jail for a decade without a trial.

Houston County Circuit Judge Kevin Moulton wrote in a Friday 22-page order that there is no evidence the state purposely delayed the case against Kharon Davis.

Davis has been held in jail for a decade without bail since June 9th, 2007. He is charged with the robbery/killing of Pete Reaves at Reaves' Rolling Hills apartment on June 6, 2007 along with two other men.

His attorneys say the original judge allowed Davis to be represented for four years by an attorney with a conflict of interest because the attorney's son was the police investigator on the case.

Davis' attorney, Thomas Goggans, argued in a hearing on June 6th that his client was first represented by attorney Ben Meredith, who had a conflict of interest when it was found that his own son, policeman Frank, was on the stands for the prosecution in a preliminary hearing in July 2007.

He is charged with the robbery/killing of Pete Reaves at Reaves' Rolling Hills apartment on June 6, 2007 along with two other men

'No evidence indicates that the potential conflict of interest of Mr. Meredith in any way contributed to the delay complained of by the defendant,' Moulton wrote in his Friday ruling

But the potential conflict was recognized on the record until 2011, soon after Moulton took over the case. It was mentioned, however, that Davis was made aware of this relationship and continued with Meredith representing him.

Davis' attorney, Thomas Goggans, argued in a that his client was first represented by attorney Ben Meredith, who had a conflict of interest when it was found that his own son, policeman Frank, was on the stands for the prosecution in a preliminary hearing in July 2007

'No evidence indicates that the potential conflict of interest of Mr. Meredith in any way contributed to the delay complained of by the defendant,' Moulton wrote in his Friday ruling.

'In fact, the defendant waived the potential conflict of interest which this Court, in its discretion, declined to accept.

'The defendant waived the potential conflict of interest that he now relies on in support of his motion for dismissal.

'To find that the potential conflict of interest is the reason for the delay would defy the evidence and logic under the circumstances.

Judge Moulton also felt that the prosecution wasn't delaying the trial but was informed that a motion for a speedy trial may be a possibly.

The case goes to trial Sept. 18.
Otto Warmbier has died six days after being brought back to the United States in a coma from North Korea.

The 22-year-old was returned to his family in Cincinnati, Ohio, on June 13 after spending 17 months in North Korea where he was arrested as a student for stealing a propaganda poster in January 2016.

He returned in a vegetative state, unable to communicate with his family and with devastating brain loss. North Korean authorities dubiously blamed his condition on a bout of food poisoning which they said he suffered while imprisoned and released him on 'humanitarian grounds'.

On Monday, his family announced his death, laying the blame for it squarely with Kim Jong Un and his regime.

'The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today,' Fred and Cindy Warmbier said in a statement.

President Trump shared his condolences with the family immediately, describing their son as 'North Korea's latest victim'.

Otto Warmbier (pictured ashe was taken in to custody in Pyongyang last January) has died days after being brought back to the United States in a coma from North Korea

The 22-year-old was carried off a private plane last week after touching down in Cincinnati to be reunited with his family 17 months after he was jailed. He returned in an almost vegetative state and had suffered extensive brain loss

'When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th, he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands.

'He looked very uncomfortable - almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance on his face changed - he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that.

'We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. We are at peace and at home too,' they said.

Otto was a student at the University of Virginia when he traveled in a group to Pyongyang.

The Warmbier family said the 'torturous mistreatment he received made no other outcome possible'

As he attempted to leave the country to return home on January 2, he was arrested and detained at the airport.

North Korean authorities accused him of committing a hostile act against the country by stealing a propaganda poster from the hotel he was staying in.

He was kept there after giving a tearful press conference and was not seen again until last week when he was carried off a private medical plane upon his return to the US.

His family, aghast at his condition, swiftly spoke out against North Korea at a press conference.

Doctors gave bleak prognosis for the promising young man.

In their statement on Monday, they said: 'It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost - future time that won't be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds.

'But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person.

'You can tell from the outpouring of emotion from the communities that he touched - Wyoming, Ohio and the University of Virginia to name just two - that the love for Otto went well beyond his immediate family.

'We would like to thank the wonderful professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who did everything they could for Otto,' they said.

Donald Trump posted this on Twitter on Monday night after the news emerged

After returning to the US last week, Otto was taken straight to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center in his home state of Ohio (above). He died there on Monday afternoon

In this video, taken days before he was arrested on January 2, 2016, the student is seen throwing snowballs with the group he was traveling with

WARMBIER FAMILY STATEMENT 'It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2.20pm. 'It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost - future time that won't be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person. 'You can tell from the outpouring of emotion from the communities that he touched - Wyoming, Ohio and the University of Virginia to name just two - that the love for Otto went well beyond his immediate family. 'We would like to thank the wonderful professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center whodid everything they could for Otto. Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today. 'When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th, he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable - almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance on his face changed - he was at peace. 'He was home and we believe he could sense that. We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. 'We are at peace and at home too.' Advertisement

Otto's father Fred said last week that his son had been 'brutalised' in North Korea as he spoke at a press conference in Cincinnati (pictured)

Upon his release, North Korean officials blamed his condition on botulism - a severe form of food poisoning which they said he contracted while in their custody.

The man's father rejected the claim, blaming his almost vegetative state on how it treated him.

'There's no excuse for the way the North Koreans treated our son and the way they have treated so many others,' Fred Warmbier fumed.

There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life President Trump

Doctors who spoke at a separate press conference said the saw no signs he had ever suffered botulism, as claimed by North Korean doctors who sent a disc containing two MRI scans of his body back with him on the private medical plane.

The scans - taken in April and July 2016 - gave no suggestion of trauma such as broken bones but Otto's medical records led the US physicians to believe he had suffered a heart attack.

The doctors refused to speculate on what may have prompted a heart attack in an otherwise healthy 21-year-old man at their press conference.

In a statement released on Monday afternoon, President Trump said: 'Melania and I offer our deepest condolences to the family of Otto Warmbier on his untimely passing.

Vice President Pence shared his condolences for the family on Twitter

'There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Otto's family and friends and all who loved him.

'Otto's fate deepens my administration's determination to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency.

'The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim.'

Vice President Pence said his death served as a 'tragic example' of the country's 'disregard for human life.'

A video taken days before his arrest was released by his devastated family last week. It showed him throwing snowballs with his friends, oblivious to the bleak fate which awaited him.

President Trump (above with the first lady on Monday) shared his condolences with the Warmbier family after learning of Otto's death and said it deepened his determination to rein in the North Korean regime

The student's release was overseen by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and President Trump who shared his well-wishes for the family after Otto's return.

On Monday, the president was hosting a summit for technology business leaders when he received news of Otto's death.

He responded to it by telling a round-table discussion that North Korea was a 'brutal regime' but one which the US could 'handle', CBS reported.

Fox claims he also said somberly: 'At least we got him home.'

In return, he was praised by the Warmbier family who complained about being told by the Obama administration to stay quiet and let them gently negotiate his release.

'When Otto was first taken, we were advised by the past administration to take a low profile while they worked to obtain his release.

'We did so without result. Earlier this year, Cindy and I decided the time for strategic patience was over. It is my understanding that [Special Representative for North Korea Policy Joseph Y. Yun] and his team, at the direction of the president, aggressively pursued resolution of the situation,' Fred Warmbier said last week.

Warmbier's release last week coincided with a bizarre visit to North Korea by actor Dennis Rodman.

There were loose suggestions the trip was an attempt by North Korean officials to distract from Warmbier's condition.

Rodman, who wore a t-shirt emblazoned with a caricature of himself and the words 'Ambassador Rodman' on the front, has not commented on Warmbier's death.

Doctors at a press conference in Cincinnati last week were aghast at the condition Otto had been returned in by the North Korea regime
Four days after losing out on the Tony for Best Musical, the Broadway hit 'Come From Away' got a welcome surprise on Thursday night with a visit from one very famous couple.

Bill and Hillary Clinton surprised the cast and audience at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theater when the two showed up seconds before curtain and took their seats in the third row.

It was an extremely rare sighting of the couple, who are seldom seen together on non-work related outings.

Hillary has become a frequent presence at Broadway shows in the months since her defeat in last year's presidential election, but she has not once brought along her husband until now.

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Bill and Hill: Hillary and Bill Clinton attended the Broadway musical 'Come From Away' on Thursday night (couple above backstage)

Daughter dearest: Their daughter Chelsea (second from right in front row with the cast) brought them (Bill and Hillary second row middle) to the show after seeing the musical earlier this year

Fashionable crowd: The group was also joined by Diane von Furstenberg (above with cast member Matt Armentrout) and Barry Diller as well as Chelsea's husband Marc Mezvisnky

Watching #ComeFromAway and @hillaryclinton and @BillClinton are 3 rows away. #NyCAdventures A post shared by Josh (@shuazee) on Jun 16, 2017 at 4:58am PDT

The Clintons appearance also proved to be just as entertaining as the show, with audience members directing their standing ovation at the end of the musical towards the former president and his wife as they made their way out of the theater.

From there they headed backstage to meet with the excited cast and crew, who posted photos of their famous visitors on social media.

Actress Natalie Gershtein was one of the many cast members to post a photo of her meeting with Hillary, writing: 'We shook hands. I said, "Thank you for everything you do for our future." And she replied, "Thank you. And we will do it together."'

Actor Rodney Hicks also posted a photo of Hillary and Bill with the entire cast, writing: 'Nothing tops this moment we all shared. Absolutely beautiful. Have an extraordinary day. Peace and Love to us All.'

The two were not alone however, as in addition to their Secret Service detail, they also brought along some famous pals to see the show on Thursday.

In the end it was a triple date, with Chelsea Clinton and her husband Marc Mezvisnky jointing her parents at the show along with DeGeneres Diane von Furstenberg and her husband Barry Diller.

The six were filmed walking up the aisle on their way out of the theater, with the three women sitting next to one another for the show.

Actor Matt Armentrout posted photos of himself with both Hillary and Diane, writing: Not only did we have the Legendary Diane von Furstenberg at @wecomefromaway tonight, we had the one and only Hillary Clinton!!! Such an honor to meet two women who have shaped our culture and lives! What an amazing week!'

The show has been swarmed with famous guests ever since opening night, which was attended by Ivanka Trump and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Chelsea had also previously seen the show, and was responsible for bringing her parents on Thursday according to writer David Hain.

Chelsea, Bill, Hillary, Barry Diller and DVF #comefromaway A post shared by Craig Mannion (@jarlath13) on Jun 15, 2017 at 8:02pm PDT

Liver for the applause: David Hain, who wrote the musical, said that audience gave Hillary an ovation after one character sang a song about breaking class ceilings to former Senator

Broadway baby: Hillary has been a frequent presence at Broadway shows since losing the election last November

He posted a number of photos of the group on Facebook and wrote about the experience of meeting the former first family.

'We often have audience members return to share the show with their family, and Chelsea Clinton bringing her parents was the best,' wrote Hain.

'I haven't cried at our show in a while, but I cried holding Molly on my lap and watching Jenn sing directly to Hilary about women breaking glass ceilings (there was a LOT of applause). So many lines in the show resonated differently - especially the scene where passengers try to vote for a different destination and are told, "this is not a democracy."

'Afterwards onstage, they were so gracious, taking pictures and speaking to each of us. President Clinton told Caesar one of his 9/11 stories, when he met a Muslim man who was afraid his countrymen would never trust him again.

'We and Sharon got to introduce our daughters to Chelsea. And Hilary told us, "this is a show that the world needs now." So honoured to have this story of Newfoundland kindness recognized and celebrated by them.'

Famous fans: Ivanka Trump was on hand for opening night of the musical back in March with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada (pair above)

Come From Away is about a Canadian town welcoming in 38 stranded US plane passengers whose have been diverted in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

Based on true events that occurred in Gander, Newfoundland, on and after 9/11, it shows the town's civilians housing, feeding and caring for the stranded foreigners.

At one point, as the passengers board their planes to return to the US, a Muslim character is subjected the a humiliating strip-search.

The play had been nominated for seven awards at the Tonys last week but lost the night's big honor to 'Dear Evan Hansen.'
For the lucky few who managed a dip in the sea or sunbathed in a park it was a truly glorious June day.

But for the many sweltering in the heat at work or in a school classroom, the hottest day of the year so far was one to forget.

And with more stiflingly hot nights predicted, getting a good nights sleep isn t going to be easy either.

Beachgoers enjoy the hottest day of the year on Brighton Pier

Plenty in London are also took the chance to bask outside, where temperatures hit 90f

Yesterdays peak temperature was 32.4 centigrade (90f) recorded at Northolt, north-west London, and most of the country baked as well.

The glorious tropical weather was widely enjoyed on Sunday, but a heatwave during the working week is never a pleasant experience.

The Met Office set the tone by issuing a Level 3 Heatwave Action alert for much of England to last until Thursday.

While Public Health England urged people to look after the elderly and young children in the hot conditions.

BEACH-GOER DROWNS IN EAST SUSSEX A woman kayaking just off East Wittering Beach tragically drowned during the holiday heatwave. Witnesses said that the woman, who was believed to be in her 60s, was kayaking just off the beach when she ran into trouble. Emergency services, including an Air Ambulance, scrambled to the scene but the woman was pronounced dead. Emergency services were called to the scene of East Wittering Bridge, in Sussex The woman was believed to have been kayaking when she ran into trouble A police spokeswoman said: Emergency services were called to East Wirring beach where a woman had been pulled from the sea Sadly the woman died at the scene. Her death is not being treated as suspicious. The coroner has been informed. A police spokesperson said the death was not being treated as suspicious Advertisement

The high temperatures are forecast to stay for most regions until cooler conditions move in on Friday.

Yesterday there were transport problems caused by the weather being too hot for trains to run normally.

In the south-east almost 50 trains were cancelled and dozens delayed because of the risk of tracks buckling in direct sunshine.

Greater Anglia said slow speeds meant some services were cancelled between London and destinations including Norwich, Ipswich and Southend.

Great Western Railway also had delays due to speed restrictions on routes between London and the west country.

The high temperatures are set to continue until cooler conditions move in on Friday

Almost 50 trains were cancelled in the south-east due to hotting up of the rails

Network Rail said: Rails in direct sunshine can be 20C hotter than air temperature. Rails expand as they get hotter and can start to buckle. Speed restrictions are imposed as slower trains exert lower forces on the track, reducing the chance of buckling.

The problems prompted criticism on social media.

Traveller Andrew Barnard tweeted: Wrong type of heat Greater Anglia? Its 2017, not 1917. And retired policeman Paul Cater tweeted: Its officially too hot for trains to run.

Some roads in Lancashire were also said to be visibly melting in the sun, with warnings issued about avoiding certain roads.

The Met Office said the hot and humid conditions will remain for much of the country until fresher, cooler and more unsettled weather on Friday.

Temperatures will stay in the mid to high 20s until the end of the week

Boys take advantage of the hot weather to ride their horses along in the sand

There should be a brief respite tomorrow for the north-east, but temperatures will rise again into the mid to high 20s until the end of the week.

Police across Britain urged dog owners to leave their pets at home, amid reports of dogs being rescued from hot cars.

In St Ives, Cornwall, a local resident smashed a car window to help a dog who appeared to be dying of overheating. Clive Oxley called police and was warned he could be arrested for criminal damage.

Public Health England warned people to look out for older neighbors, friends and relatives

He said: We just smashed it and got it out and gave it some water. At least it can breathe now - it was lying on its back with its leg in theair.

In Hornsea, East Yorkshire, police officers rescued a distressed dog by smashing the window of a car just in time. The owners were reported for animal cruelty.

Age UK urged everyone to look out for older neighbours, friends and relatives and issued detailed advice about how the elderly can cope with the hot conditions.

Dr Angie Bone, Head of Public Health Englands Extreme Events team, said: Spells of hot weather like this are enjoyed by many of us, but they can make a very real impact on some peoples health.

A distressed dog was rescued by firefighters from a car in Yorkshire

Thats why its so important we all keep an eye on those likely to be most at risk, people with underlying heart and lung conditions, older people and those with younger children.

And for many people the nights have been harder to cope with than the days.

On Sunday night it was hotter in some areas than in Istanbul during the day.

The warm and humid nights are set to continue

The mercury hit 24C (75F) at midnight on Sunday at London City Airport - hotter than Istanbul where day temperatures did not climb higher than 21C (70F).

MeteoGroup forecaster Callum Stewart said: We can expect more warm and humid nights this week as the very warm weather will remain until Friday.
Survivors of the Grenfell Tower disaster claim they had to wait two extra days to get their emergency cash as council workers went home for the weekend.

Some also complained of being asked to provide identification to access the money, despite the majority losing all of their earthly possessions in the fire.

Downing Street is giving victims a 5,500 down payment as part of a 5million fund announced by Theresa May last week.

The son of one survivor flew over to Britain immediately from his home in Nigeria after hearing his family was in danger.

Rukayetu Mamudu, 70 and son Tyrshondre Petralias, 12, say they were forced to wait two extra days to get their emergency cash as council workers went home for the weekend

Residents whose homes were destroyed in the Grenfell Tower fire will get a 5,500 Government down payment from tomorrow, it has been announced

He said his mother had to provide a letter with signatures proving she was who she said she was, hours after the disaster.

He blasted the council for closing up shop on Friday so workers could enjoy a full two-day weekend while survivors were left without emergency cash.

Ahmed Mamudu, 43, told MailOnline: 'What is the point of having an emergency fund if no one can access the money?

'These victims have already been through enough, it makes sense that there needs to be some proof of who they are but these people have had to wait days.

'The council went home on Friday and the money for my mother was only cleared last night. Why?'

He expressed concern for those living in the 24-storey block who may have been living in the country illegally or without bank accounts.

Red Cross workers will provide 'psychological support' to survivors and their families after Theresa May said the initial response 'has not been good enough' (file picture)

The announcement was made by Downing Street on Sunday evening, as the Prime Minister faced intense scrutiny over her government's reaction to the disaster

'What about these people, many of these people will already be victims of illegal subletting. Now they will be victims twice, they might not want to come forward for the money in case they're scared of getting caught. There needs to be an amnesty so people can feel safe.'

His 70-year-old mother, a retired care worker, had lived in her flat on the first floor of Grenfell Tower for six months with her 12 year old son Tyrshondre.

The duo managed to escape after Mrs Mamudu spotted a crowd of people crying and pointing outside of the building in the early hours of Wednesday.

This evening residents and survivors have been summoned to a private invite-only meeting at the Harrow Club near Latimer Road tube station.

An emergency organisation had to be created, using staff from councils across London after the Royal Borough for Kensington and Chelsea authority was deemed 'unfit' to cope with the disaster.

Residents tried to escape from Grenfell Tower (pictured) in west London in the early hours of Wednesday morning

Harrowing images show the charred remains of flats and hallways that were once home to hundreds of families before the blaze broke out on Wednesday morning

Mr Mamudu added: 'When council workers finished on Friday, they didn't care. There is no compassion, they just wanted to go home. He who does love what he does, shouldn't be doing the job.'

He spoke of the ridiculousness of the situation as his mother, 70, tried to get access to the 5,000 grant issued by the government.

Councillor Robert Atkinson, who represents constituents who Iived in Grenfell Tower, said the council just 'couldn't cope' and called the situation 'complicated'.

He confirmed he'd heard reports of residents living in the tower who may have been illegally subletting and without bank accounts and feared they wouldn't be able to access the money.

MailOnline has approached the Royal Borough for Kensington and Chelsea council for comment.
Two Pennsylvania parents been sentenced to up to 21 years in prison for 'torturing' their twin infant daughters.

Michael, 31, and Melissa Shales, 26, were sentenced to between 10 and 21 years behind bars in Tullytown - about 25 miles northeast of Philadelphia - last Friday.

'I believe that both of these parents tortured their children,' Judge Raymond McHugh said when handing down the sentence, Fox43 reports.

'I dont know which is worse: to injure a child, or to fail to get a child treatment.'

The parents were initially sentenced to seven to 14 years for the shocking abuse, but the judge tacked on an extra three to seven years for child endangerment.

Both pleaded guilty in May to aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children.

Michael, 31, and Melissa Shales, 26, were sentenced to between 10 and 21 years for 'torturing' their twin infant daughters

The 26-year-old mother had given both of her children multiple broken bones in the first two months they were alive - including a broken leg.

The 31-year-old father badly tore the throat of one of his daughter with a pair of pliers while high on heroin, and he did not get the young girls medical treatment for the broken bones inflicted by his wife.

The child he injured with the pliers still requires a feeding tube, Fox43 reports.

The girls, who are now 17 months old, are still recovering and only recently began to walk.

During the couple's trial, Deputy District Attorney Chelsey D. Jackman told the court: 'Their two months of life with their parents was torture.'

Police were first called to the couple's home on March 21, 2016, where the malnourished children were found.

Investigation started when Melissa Shales called 911 to report one of the girls was having problems breathing. When police arrived to their apartment (pictured), they found it in 'deplorable living conditions

The mother told officers one of her daughters was struggling to breath. It was identified the young girl was the one who had he throat damaged by her father.

He had injured the young girl earlier in the day when he tried to pull a piece of gauze out of his daughter's throat with the tools, but while doing so he punctured the back of her throat and her esophagus, according to the Levittown newspaper.

Melissa Shales (pictured) admitted to throwing her daughter into a swing the day before police were called because she had gotten into an argument with her husband

The father was high on heroin at the time.

The young girl was also found to have a host of other injuries, including: neck injuries consistent with shaken-baby syndrome, cuts and bruises to her vagina, broken ribs, a broken tibia, and broken femur.

The 26-year-old mother confessed to hearing a 'pop' after she pulled at her daughter's leg while giving her a bath just one week before police were called to the house.

She said that over the next few days, both she and her husband tried to twist and force the leg back into place. The District Attorney claimed that behavior could have made the injury worse.

The mom also admitted to throwing the same daughter into a swing the day before police were called because she had gotten into an argument with her husband.

Her twin sister also had broken bones, consistent with the type of injuries caused by shaking of throwing a baby.

District Attorney Jackman said the children were so badly malnourished they had only gained two pounds in their first two months while with the parents.

Prior to handing down his sentence, Judge McHugh said he was so horrified by the details of the abuse, it: 'shook (his) faith in human beings'.
A primary school has been slammed over an artwork saying 'sorry' to the Aboriginal Stolen Generations, with parents claiming it's making their children feel 'guilty'.

Coburg North Primary School, in Melbourne's northern suburbs, recently put the art showing an arrangement of hands spelling out the word 'sorry' up in its schoolyard.

But while the mural containing cut-outs of their hands was intended to continue the message then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd started in 2008, it has caused a stir among parents, 3AW reports.

Coburg North Primary School has been slammed over artwork saying 'sorry' to the Aboriginal stolen generations (pictured), with parents claiming it's making their children feel 'guilty'

In 2008, then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (pictured) apologised to the Stolen Generations on behalf of Australia. But radio host Tom Elliott said the artwork was like forcing German kids to apologise for the Holocaust

On each of the hundreds of red, yellow and black hands arranged in the art, students had written the word 'sorry'.

Radio host Tom Elliott said it was inappropriate for schools to make children feel at fault for Australia's sins - comparing it to German kids apologising for the Holocaust.

'I don't like it. I don't mind kids learning history and that can mean some of the darker parts of Australia's history,' Elliott said.

'But at the same time, the idea that a five, or a six, or a seven-year-old now feels that he or she has to go and say sorry - I think it's wrong.

'It's like saying every young German should be taught if they ever see a Jewish person to go up and say sorry to them.'

A local parent said that despite not having children at the school, the artwork hadn't sat well with him.

3AW radio host Tom Elliott (pictured) said it was inappropriate for schools to make children feel at fault for Australia's sins - comparing it to German kids apologising for the Holocaust

The school also regularly holds 'welcome to country' and smoking ceremony rituals, Coburg North Primary School's principal told 3AW

'I don't think it's a primary school's responsibility to make young children feel guilty,' the man, who gave his name only as Joel, said.

The school also regularly holds 'welcome to country' and smoking ceremony rituals, Coburg North Primary School's principal told 3AW.

In 2008, Mr Rudd apologised to the Aboriginal Stolen Generations on behalf of the Australian public, giving a speech to parliament which was broadcast nationwide.

Daily Mail Australia contacted the Victorian Department of Education for comment.
Vile rants by far-Right extremists celebrating the Finsbury Park attack were circulating on Facebook and Google last night.

Hate-filled fanatics also used social media networks to heap praise on the killer as a hero who deserved a medal.

In one video, a man posing in front of a Nazi flag said he was so happy right now because the English had grown some balls and a white man had driven into a bunch of Muslims.

A man posing in front of a Nazi flag said he was so happy right now because the English had grown some balls and a white man had driven into a bunch of Muslims

The American, who goes by the name Jermania, posted the video on Googles YouTube website. In the clip, he said: Greetings comrades, I am so happy right now. Its turning out to be a wonderful Fathers Day.

I think the English have finally grown some balls and a white man, possibly  cant say for sure yet  but someone has driven a van into a bunch of Muslims who were leaving a mosque. I think they [the English] finally ****ing hit back, and you know this is going to kick it off right here  about ****ing time. Well done.

Google removed the video, saying this kind of content has no place on YouTube and that it is working with government, law enforcement and civil society groups to tackle the problem of violent extremism online.

Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park area of North London

But it left dozens of other videos by the white supremacist, including others filmed in front of a Nazi flag. Some videos on YouTube even claimed the attack was fake.

One alleged the Grenfell Tower fire was also 100 per cent staged.

It comes days after Google announced it would start using artificial intelligence to scan for hate speech.

Extremists branded the Finsbury Park killer a top man on the Facebook page of far-Right group Britain First. Under a video entitled Finsbury Park mosque terror attack  who is the suspected terrorist?, a far-Right fanatic commented that he is a b****y hero.

Forensic officers move the vehicle van at after its driver ploughed into a crowd of Muslims

On Twitter, one user wrote: Lets hope Finsbury is the first shot in a worldwide war on Islam and the invaders that bring it with them from third world.

Another said: History notes Finsbury Park attack as day when war on Muslim hatred and murders began. Government failed, people took charge.

A video by English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson, first published before the attack, was also circulated on Twitter.

In it, he said a disgruntled, angry population would end up cleaning out this Islamic problem.

Twitter declined to comment for privacy and security reasons. Last night, it took Daily Mail reporters seconds to find pro-Nazi messages on Twitter.

One hateful message claimed Hitlers reputation had been unfairly tarnished.
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Two of his victims were in wheelchairs, others were helping a man who had been taken sick minutes earlier.

But, with no shred of mercy on his smirking face, he aimed his van at the throng of worshippers taking a rest between prayers.

He drove straight at his first three targets, mowing them down. He then reversed into five or six more while making victory signs and cheering. The attacker jumped out of the hired vehicle, shouting 'I'm going to kill all Muslims', before being captured by those he was trying to murder. He later blew kisses from the safety of the police van.

The shocking incident began around 12.20am on a sweltering night when Muslims observing Ramadan were taking a break between prayers at Finsbury Park Mosque in London.

The 47-year-old is believed to have grown up in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, but is now said to live in Cardiff, South Wales

Two police officers are seen helping a victim towards an ambulance car as devastated worshippers watch on in horror following last night's attack

They were chatting and eating food when an elderly man, who walked with the aid of sticks, collapsed in the road. As they crowded round to give first aid, the screaming of tyres could be heard along Seven Sisters Road.

Darren Osborne  the 47-year-old alleged attacker  was accelerating at speed down the bus lane.

'I thought he was just late or trying to beat the lights,' said Saeed Hasm, who works at the Qatari embassy. When the driver saw the group helping the sick man at the entrance to a cul-de-sac, Whadcoat Street, he swerved hard left and ploughed into them. Mr Hasm said: 'He hit three people. A woman was hit first. He reversed and hit five or six more.'

Farhad Laichour, 40, added: 'It was all over in seconds. Those people who were hit by the van didn't have a chance to run.

'They were deliberately targeted by a madman.'

Witnesses said two people in wheelchairs were among those hit. One was saved from worse injury by a man who, though deaf, spotted the van in the nick of time.

A bystander called Athmane told the Mail: 'The deaf man has lived around here for years and was very brave. I could see him trying to push the man in the wheelchair away ... He [the man in the wheelchair] had a big gash to the top of his head and was vomiting and shaking after the van hit him.

'The driver knew exactly what he was doing.

'The guy behind the wheel was smiling broadly and making victory signs and cheering.'

With the 80-a-day hire van trapped in a dead end, the well-built terrorist leapt out of the driver's cab and allegedly began screaming, 'I'm going to kill all Muslims'. He made it no more than 20ft before being wrestled to the ground, all while throwing punches.

Mr Hasm, who helped bring him down, said: 'He was spitting and he bit my thumb and grabbed me. He was going to hurt more people. He was strong and was struggling.' Abdulrahman Aidroos added: 'He was saying, when he was running 'I'm going to kill more people'. I tackled him down to the ground, with the help of other people. I asked him, 'Why did you do that, why, innocent people?' He goes, 'I want to kill Muslims'. 'Then he was saying, 'Kill me, kill me'. I said, 'We are not going to kill you. Why did you do that?' He wouldn't say anything.'

Police are investigating a suspected terror attack after this hired van ploughed into people outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park, north London, in what has been described as a 'deliberate and horrific terror attack on innocent people'

Police were forced to hold back crowds as the Finsbury Park attacker was arrested and put in the back of a van following this morning's terror attack

This is the Hollybush pub in Pentwyn, Cardiff, where drinkers have claimed that Osborne was thrown out on Saturday night

Zoheir Cheref said the van driver was muttering, 'I did the job,' and 'I done my bit'. Scattered around the cul-de-sac were his wounded victims. Among them was grandmother Hirsiyo Ali, 72, who had been returning home from the mosque with a friend.

She was left lying in the road with shattered ribs. The elderly man who had collapsed before the van arrived was pronounced dead from a heart attack. Passers-by were seen giving CPR to at least one victim, while another man's head injury was treated by bystanders with a makeshift dressing.

As two or three men held down the driver, a mob formed and began aiming kicks and punches at him.

Adil Rana, 24, said: 'He was pinned down to the floor and people were punching him and beating him, which was reasonable because of what he's done.

'And then the imam came out and said, 'Don't hit him, hand him over to the police, pin him down'.'

Under the command of the imam  Mohammed Mahmoud  several burly men formed a protective ring around the attacker  although someone did manage to dodge through the cordon and land a kick to his head.

Salah Alamoudi, one of those who helped restrain the van attacker, said: 'He was a strong guy. A big man.'

Another, Abdikadar Warfa, said: 'He was trying to run away but people overpowered him.

This is the moment the Finsbury Park mosque terror suspect turned to the crowd from inside the van and was filmed blowing a kiss to them and said: 'I want to kill all Muslims - I did my bit'

His mother, Christine Osborne, (left) said she had last seen her son a month ago and described the attack as an 'atrocity'. It was also revealed he split from his partner Sarah Andrews six months ago (right)

'He was fighting to run away. I saw a man underneath the van.

'He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van, but I was busy with the man who tried to escape.'

Someone flagged down a passing police van and a small group of officers took control. They cuffed Osborne, who was wearing a scruffy blue T-shirt, as the angry crowd shouted at him: 'Why? Why did you do that? Why?'

Police ordered the crowd to stand back before bundling Osborne into the cage inside their van, partly for his own safety.

He waved and later could be seen blowing a kiss through a window.

Mr Rana added: 'When he got arrested, he was taunting, saying, 'I'd do it again, I'd do it again'.'

He said the attacker mocked the crowd with a victory sign.

Abdul Abdullah, 18, said the attacker had looked indifferent and 'like he didn't even care'.

Police said the suspect would be taken to hospital and arrested after he had been discharged. A mental health assessment would follow.

As residents came to terms with another senseless attack on the capital's streets, flowers were handed to police, who put the tributes inside a cordoned-off area.

One message read: 'This hideous crime is not who we are. Finsbury Park represents the best of London. Love and tolerance.'

Another said: 'This is an attack on all Londoners  and on my community.'
Donald Trump's disgraced ex-National Security Advisor Mike Flynn is showing 'all the signs' of being an FBI co-operating witness, a senator claimed Monday.

Rhode Island Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse told CNN that there was every reason to believe the retired Army general was now helping the feds in the probe into claims of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia.

Flynn was fired in disgraced just a month into Trump's presidency for misleading Vice President Mike Pence about his conversations with Russia's ambassador to the U.S., Sergey Kislyak.

Whitehouse said that it appeared likely that Flynn's apparent untruths to the FBI in the course of the investigation were enough to guarantee him a felony conviction, allowing the feds to 'flip' him.

He told CNN's Wolf Blitzer: 'All the signals are suggesting he [Flynn] is already cooperating with the FBI, and may have been for some time.

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Dramatic suggestion: 'All the signals are suggesting he [Flynn] is already cooperating with the FBI, and may have been for some time,' Sheldon Whitehouse told Wolf Blitzer

In the crosshairs: Flynn could be an FBI co-operating witness, a member of the Senate suggested - while two powerful House Democrats demanded answers about his part in a bizarre plan to get Arab countries to buy $100 billion in Russian arms

'First of all, they had him dead to rights on a felony false statement, on the statement they took from him at the White House on the Kislyak conversations.'

Whitehouse said that Flynn had also submitted new documents detailing his activities on the behalf of foreign governments, which he claimed was something which the FBI asks cooperating witnesses to do.

And he claimed that their were a series of subpoenas issued already, in which Flynn was not named making him 'the hole in a donut of subpoenas'.

'It could be a huge deal. Who knows what Trump has said to him?' the senator said.

'And apparently, Trump has been in touch with him after his firing from the White House to tell him to 'Stay strong.' Which in some circumstances could be looked at as manipulation of a witness, or obstruction of justice.'

The extraordinary claims from the senator - which cannot be verified - came as details were revealed of how Flynn may have been involved in a bizarre plan to get Arab countries to buy Russian arms in return for gaining nuclear technology.

The two most senior Democratic members of the House Oversight Committee and Foreign Affairs Committees have written to Flynn to ask for more details of trips he took to Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Israel in 2015 and which was not disclosed in his initial official declaration of foreign involvement.

Elijah Cummings, from oversight, and Eliot Engel, from foreign affairs, have demanded a full set of documents on the plan, ABC News reported.

The plan, first reported earlier this month in Newsweek, involved persuading Saudi Arabia to fund a $1 trillion network of nuclear power plants in Arab countries.

The nuclear technology would be from the United States and Russia. In return, the countries buying the technology would also buy $100 billion in Russian arms.

Letter: Elijah Cummings (center) is one of the two House Democratic ranking committee members demanding answers from Flynn

Reason for firing: Flynn was get rid of by President Trump over his lies about conversations with Sergey Kislyak, the Russian ambassador to the U.S. who is seen as a top intelligence asset for Vladimir Putin's Kremlin - but who was welcomed into the Oval Office in May

Russia had been planning to sell the arms to Iran, but the scheme's idea was that Moscow would be willing to end its involvement with Tehran in return for the nuclear and arms deal.

The company promoting the scheme, X-Co Dynamics Inc./Iron Bridge Group, run by a group of retired generals and equivalent ranks from other services, had Flynn involved to advise on producing a security plan.

But the letter from Cummings and Engel details a series of problems with his declaration which they want to see documents for.

The letter suggests the first summer 2015 trip, which took him to Israel and Egypt, was not disclosed at all.

And the second, later that year, to Saudi Arabia was declared but with missing or unverifiable details.

Among the problems were that the 'friend' he traveled with was not named, the speaking engagement he claimed could not be confirmed with the agencies which usually booked his appearances, and he claimed to stay at a hotel - the King Khaled International Hotel - whose existence could not be proven by investigators working for Congress.

Flynns attorney told ABC News he would not comment on the new allegations.

The two reps wrote: 'Most troubling of all, we have no record of Gen. Flynn identifying on his security clearance renewal application  or during his interview with security clearance investigators  even a single foreign government he had contact with.

'Gen. Flynn failed to disclose these contacts with Saudi or other foreign officials on his security clearance application or during his interview with security clearance investigators which could constitute further violations.'

Flynn has already been under fire for failing to initially disclose payments from the Turkish government, and how he was paid for appearing in Moscow when he had dinner with Vladimir Putin.
A driver got the fright of his life after discovering a huge venomous snake hidden in the bonnet of his van in south-west China.

A dramatic video has emerged online showing the man pulling out the 10-foot-long cobra using a pair of metal tongs, assisted by forestry police.

The cobra is expected to be released back to nature.

Can you spot the snake? A driver, surnamed Guo, had to call police for help after seeing a 10-foot-long king cobra hiding inside the bonnet of his van in south-west China

The incident took place in Yuxi, Yunnan Province, on May 31.

According to Huanqiu.com, an affiliation to People's Daily, the driver, surnamed Guo, first spotted a black snake curling up in the corner of his garage. He went back to his house and called the police for help.

After Mr Guo returned to his garage, he couldn't find the reptile any more. The man suspected that it had slithered into his van.

So he opened the engine cover and saw it hiding in the bonnet.

Footage uploaded on YouTube shows the moment when the two policemen arrived with snake tongs.

Mr Guo and the forestry policemen carefully removed the snake from the car and brought it on the floor.

The snake has been described as a king cobra, which is three metres long (10 feet) and weighs 4.6 kg (10 pounds).

Forestry police used snake tongs to help pull the cobra out of the bonnet (left). The snake is said to measure 4.6kg (10 pounds) in weight and three metres (10 feet) in length

The cobra was has been captured by the Forestry Police and Mr Guo and was sent to a animal rescue centre in Yunnan. The animal is expected to be released back to nature

Mr Guo believed that the snake had slithered into his car when he parked the vehicle near a reservoir few days earlier.

He drove the snake back home without knowing and the animal had been moving around in his garage.

Police managed to capture the snake together with Mr Guo. They sent it to the Yunnan Wild Animals Protection and Rescue Centre on June 1.

Initial inspection shows the king cobra didn't have any health problems.

It is expected to be released back to the wild.

Chinese forestry police reminded members of the public to stay away from cobras as the venom could be fatal and could cause death within 30 minutes.
The dinosaur era began after a mass extinction event wiped out a large proportion of life on Earth, around 200 million years ago.

And a new study suggests that waves of volcanic activity triggered this mass extinction event.

The findings provide valuable new insights into how dinosaurs evolved on Earth.

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Waves of huge volcanic eruptions paved the way for the rise and age of the dinosaurs, researchers have found (stock image)

HOW DID VOLCANOES TRIGGER THE RISE OF THE DINOSAURS? The dinosaur era began after a mass extinction event wiped out a large proportion of life on Earth - including a third of marine wildlife - around 200 million years ago. This Triassic extinction has long been linked to a large and abrupt release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, but the exact source of this has remained unknown. Now scientists have discovered that pulses of volcanic eruptions caused the huge release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The release of gas triggered rapid climate change, which many species struggled to adapt to. Though hundreds to thousands of species died, a few did manage to survive - including the dinosaurs. The surplus food and space left by the absence of species allowed the dinosaurs to thrive. Advertisement

Lead researcher Lawrence Percival, a graduate student at the University of Oxford, told MailOnline: 'During the Triassic all the continents were joined together in one super-continent called Pangea.

'For most of the time that Pangea existed, the amount of volcanic activity was probably quite similar to today.

But at the end of the Triassic, a huge amount of volcanic activity occurred across North America, South America, Africa, and south-west Europe, which would ultimately lead to the break-up of Pangea and the opening of the Atlantic Ocean.

'This volcanic activity is thought to have occurred in several mega-eruptions over at least 700,000 years, with episodic eruptions lava flows 100s1,000s of cubic kilometres in size occurring with times of volcanic quiescence in between.

'It is not clear precisely how long these mega-eruptions lasted, or how long the gaps between them were.

'However, based on other studies it is thought that the eruptions would have lasted years to decades, with 100s1,000s of years in between.'

The Triassic extinction caused hundreds of animals to die out, including many large crocodile-like reptiles and marine invertebrates.

The event also caused huge changes in land vegetation, changing the face of the planet forever.

This mass extinction has long been linked to a large and abrupt release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, but the exact source of this has been unknown.

The release of carbon dioxide caused rapid climate change, which many species struggled to adapt to.

By investigating the mercury content of sedimentary rocks deposited during the extinction, the study has found clear links in the timing of volcanic eruptions and the end-Triassic extinction.

Scientists have discovered that pulses of volcanic eruptions caused the huge release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which triggered the End Triassic extinction

Volcanoes give off mercury gas emissions, which spread globally through the atmosphere, before being deposited in sediments.

Because of this, sediments left during a large volcanic event would be expected to have unusually high mercury content.

Mr Percival said: 'We see high mercury concentrations in end-Triassic sediments from around the world, suggesting a global influence of volcanic gas emissions during the end-Triassic extinction.

'The mercury concentrations are shown to be in sediments of the same age as hugely extensive lava flows, further strengthening the case for volcanism being the source of this mercury.

THE FIVE MASS EXTINCTIONS Five times, a vast majority of the world's life has been snuffed out in what have been called mass extinctions, often associated with giant meteor strikes. End-Ordovician mass extinction The first of the traditional big five extinction events, around 440 million years ago, was probably the second most severe. Virtually all life was in the sea at the time and around 85 per cent of these species vanished. Late Devonian mass extinction About 375-359 million years ago, major environmental changes caused a drawn-out extinction event that wiped out major fish groups and stopped new coral reefs forming for 100 million years. End-Permian mass extinction (the Great Dying) The largest extinction event and the one that affected the Earth's ecology most profoundly took place 252 million years ago. As much as 97 per cent of species that leave a fossil record disappeared forever. End-Triassic mass extinction Dinosaurs first appeared in the Early Triassic, but large amphibians and mammal-like reptiles were the dominant land animals. The rapid mass extinction that occurred 201 million years ago changed that. End-Cretaceous mass extinction An asteroid slammed down on Earth 66 million years ago, and is often blamed for ending the reign of the dinosaurs. Advertisement

'The mercury increase is found to occur in the same sediments that record increased carbon dioxide during the end-Triassic extinction, supporting a volcanic origin for both gases.'

The team sourced six sediment deposits from the UK, Austria, Argentina, Greenland, Canada and Morocco, and analysed their mercury levels.

Five of the six deposits showed a large increase in mercury content beginning at the end-Triassic extinction.

And other peaks observed between the extinction horizon and the TriassicJurassic boundary, which occurred approximately 200,000 years later.

Though hundreds to thousands of species died out during the end-Triassic, a few did manage to survive - including the dinosaurs.

The surplus food and space left by the absence of competing species allowed the dinosaurs to thrive and become the dominant group of animals in the Jurassic era.

In the Triassic, all the continents were joined together in one super-continent called Pangea (left). But volcanic eruptions at the end of the Triassic caused the land mass to break apart

Mr Percival said: 'Before the extinction and the volcanic eruptions, there were many groups of large reptiles, such as large crocodile-like animals, early relatives of mammals, as well as the dinosaurs themselves.

'The dinosaurs were not a major group at that time. However, the extinction killed off the first two groups, leaving the dinosaurs as the only major land-based reptile group left.

'The dinosaurs then had the opportunity to exploit the gaps in the ecosystem, which ultimately led to their domination of planet Earth for the next 135 million years.'

He added rapid climate change caused by the release of carbon dioxide is thought to have finished off the dinosaurs' competitors.

'Why this killed off the large crocodile-like animals and large mammal-relatives, but not the dinosaurs? As far as I am aware, we don't really know,' he said.
It's easy to teach your children to be kind, according to a new study.

Research has found parents who practice altruism are more likely to pass down their values to their children, compared with parents who are selfish.

This may be because parents who focus on pro-social values, like being caring, are more sensitive to their childrens needs.

As a result, they establish a stronger bond with their children, making their child more likely to follow their parents values.

Parents who want their children to be kind are more successful in passing on all of their values, research has found. Parents who promote selfishness, on the other hand, pass on their values poorly, the study showed (stock image)

PASSING VALUES DOWN In explaining the results, the researchers suggest that parents who focus on 'prosocial' values may be more sensitive to their childrens needs. These parents establish a stronger bond with their children, the researchers said, meaning they are more likely to successfully pass on their values. Children are even likely to adopt values that are not related to kindness, like values of curiosity or tradition, the research found. By being more empathetic and supportive, these parents also demonstrate the importance of these values directly in their relationships with their children. As such, offspring are more likely to wish to replicate these positive experiences through their own values. Advertisement

Researchers from Royal Holloway, University of London and the universities of Westminster, Vienna and Bern assessed 418 German and Swiss families.

They included children aged between 7-9 in Switzerland and aged 6-11 in Germany.

They examined the values the parents were trying to teach their little ones, and how successful they were.

To assess values, parents and children were shown pictures of adults and children respectively.

Alongside each picture was a statements such as It is important to her to be rich.

She wants to have a lot of money and expensive things, or She believes that people should do what they are told. They were then asked how much they identified with the picture.

The parents were also asked how much they wanted their children to grow up to be like the person in the picture they were shown.

Parents who were keen on their children growing up to be kind and caring were found to be more likely to have caring, kind children.

Those who were keener on striving for power and achievement were less likely to have children who replicated these values.

By being more empathetic and supportive, these parents also demonstrate the importance of these values directly in their relationships with their children. As such, offspring are more likely to wish to replicate these positive experiences through their own values.

There was a difference between parents.

The test found mothers were more likely to teach children to be caring  and also to be more conservative  while fathers were more interested in children achieving material success or power, as well as being more open to change.

Professor Anat Bardi from Royal Holloways Department of Psychology and co-author of the study explained: Ours is a test of how far the apple falls from the tree, or in other words, how similar are children to their parents in the values they hold?.

We often take for granted like father, like son and this is especially interesting when it comes to the inheritance of destructive values such as power-seeking and selfishness.

'Weve now demonstrated that parents who foster more altruistic values, such as helping and caring more strongly pass on all their values down the family line.

Dr Anna Doehring from the University of Westminster This is the first time a study that examined similarity between the values of children and their parents has actually assessed childrens values when they are at the formative time of childhood, whereas previous research only asked teens and young adults to reflect back on their experiences.

'We are able to understand this key building block in the development of individual values, which are then taken forward through schooling and other important stages of value development.

The research found that children whose parents wanted them to value helping, supporting and caring for others, were more similar to their parents in their values than those whose parents promoted striving for power and achievement (stock image)

In conclusion, Professor Bardi said: This research really shows that where parents nurture positive, supportive and altruistic values their children will also take these characteristics to heart.

'Where being the best is among the dominant interests of the parents, children tend not to express such connection to their parents values.

'This research brings a positive message to the world: prosocial parents breed a prosocial next generation, but parents who endorse selfishness do not breed a selfish next generation.

While there are always other influences on how we develop the values that make us who we are, there is no doubt that our parents have a huge role to play. How we then decide to take their values through our lives is, of course up to us as individuals.
The Kepler spacecraft has detected 219 new exoplanet candidates  and ten could be habitable.

In a press briefing today at NASA's Ames Research Center, scientists revealed the 'most reliable' catalog yet of potential planets in our galaxy, bringing the total to 4,034.

According to the scientists, over 2,300 planets spotted during the Kepler missions have been confirmed so far, including over 30 terrestrial-sized planets that lie in the 'Goldilocks Zone' of their star.

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In a press briefing today, scientists revealed the 'most reliable' catalog yet of potential planets in our galaxy, bringing the total to 4,034. In addition, the researchers identified a notable distinction between groupings of small planets that could help guide the search for alien life

A NEW BRANCH IN THE 'FAMILY TREE' In addition to the new exoplanet candidates, the researchers also identified a notable distinction between groupings of small planets, akin to a new branch in their 'family tree.' With the Kepler observations and the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii, the researchers found groups of small planets could be divided among two categories: rocky, Earth-sized planets, and gaseous planets smaller than Neptune. The finding suggests that  for reasons not yet understood  the universe tends to create rocky planets up to about 75 percent bigger than Earth. And, roughly half of these planets take on small amounts of hydrogen and helium, causing them to dramatically increase in size. As a result, they jump the gap, to become one of the Neptune-sized worlds. Advertisement

Of the 219 new planet candidates, 10 are near-Earth sized and orbit within the habitable zone of their host star, the Kepler scientists revealed during the briefing today.

The habitable zone represents a range in which a planet could be the right temperature to host liquid water at the surface.

With the new analysis, the number of terrestrial-sized candidates in habitable zones has now climbed to about 50, with over 30 confirmed as exoplanets.

The closest candidate to Earth is an object known as K77-11, the researchers say.

It receives just about the same amount of energy as we do from our sun, and is only slightly larger than Earth, at 1.3 Earth-radii, explained Susan Thompson, Kepler research scientist at the SETI Institute in Mountain View, California.

The latest catalog represents Keplers final survey from the Cygnus constellation, and spans the spacecrafts first four years of data.

Of the 4,034 candidates identified so far, 2,335 have now been verified.

Researchers say the findings could ultimately help guide the search for alien life, offering the most complete and reliable accounting of distant worlds to date.

The latest catalog represents Keplers final survey from the Cygnus constellation, and spans the spacecrafts first four years of data. The Kepler spacecraft has detected 219 new exoplanet candidates  and ten could be habitable

With the new analysis, the number of terrestrial-sized candidates in habitable zones has now climbed to about 50, with over 30 confirmed as exoplanets

WHAT KEPLER HAS FOUND SO FAR Kepler mission Candidate exoplanets: 4,034

Confirmed exoplanets: 2,335

Confirmed exoplanets less than twice Earth-size in the habitable zone: 21 K2 mission (2014-present) Candidate exoplanets: 520

Confirmed exoplanets: 148 Source: NASA Advertisement

'This new result presented today has implications for understanding the frequency of different types of planets and galaxies, and helping us to advance our knowledge on how planets are formed,' said Mario Perez, Kepler program scientist in the Astrophysics Division of NASAs Science Mission Directorate in Washington, during the conference.

In addition to the new exoplanet candidates, the researchers also identified a notable distinction between groupings of small planets, which could help guide the search for alien life.

With the Kepler observations and the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii, the researchers found groups of small planets could be divided among two categories: rocky, Earth-sized planets, and gaseous planets smaller than Neptune.

The finding suggests that  for reasons not yet understood  the universe tends to create rocky planets up to about 75 percent bigger than Earth.

Of the 4,034 candidates identified so far, 2,335 have now been verified. Researchers say the findings could ultimately help guide the search for alien life, offering the most complete and reliable accounting of distant worlds to date

With the Kepler observations and the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii, the researchers found groups of small planets could be divided among two categories: rocky, Earth-sized planets, and gaseous planets smaller than Neptune

And, roughly half of these planets take on small amounts of hydrogen and helium, causing them to dramatically increase in size.

As a result, they jump the gap, to become one of the Neptune-sized worlds.

We like to think of this study as classifying planets in the same way that biologists identify new species of animals, said B.J. Fulton, doctoral candidate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the California Institute of Technology.

Finding two distinct groups of exoplanets is like discovering mammals and lizards make up distinct branches of a family tree.

The Kepler mission has spotted thousands of confirmed exoplanets over the years, with at least 30 planets not much larger than Earth now known to exist in the habitable zone.

After the fix, Kepler started its K2 mission, which has provided an ecliptic field of view with greater opportunities for Earth-based observatories in both the northern and southern hemispheres

The Kepler mission has spotted thousands of confirmed exoplanets over the years, with 21 planets not much larger than Earth now known to exist in the habitable zone  and, the latest catalog will be the best look yet at possible alien worlds

According to NASA, the new catalog is the result of the most sophisticated analyses yet, by the Kepler mission, and will give rise to new lines of exoplanet research.

The Kepler space telescope launched in 2009, in a major breakthrough in the search for Earth-sized planets outside of our solar system that may be in or near the habitable zone of their star.

Just last summer, astronomers revealed theyd discovered 197 new planet candidates, and confirmed 104 planets through the Kepler mission.

The planets, which are all between 20 and 50 per cent larger than Earth by diameter, are orbiting the M dwarf star K2-72, found 181 light years away.

At the time, the researchers led by the University of Arizona said the possibility of life on planets around a star of this kind cannot be ruled out.

The Kepler space telescope launched in 2009, in a major breakthrough in the search for Earth-sized planets outside of our solar system that may be in or near the habitable zone of their star

In the spacecraft's extended mission in 2013, it lost its ability to precisely stare at its original target area, but a fix created a second life for the telescope

Since its launch, the Kepler mission has been plagued by several setbacks  but, it has still continued to spot new objects outside of our solar system.

In its initial mission, Kepler surveyed just one patch of sky in the northern hemisphere, measuring the frequency of planets whose size and temperature might be similar to Earth orbiting stars similar to our sun.

In the spacecraft's extended mission in 2013, it lost its ability to precisely stare at its original target area, but a fix created a second life for the telescope.

After the fix, Kepler started its K2 mission, which has provided an ecliptic field of view with greater opportunities for Earth-based observatories in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

Because it covers more of the sky, the K2 mission is capable of observing a larger fraction of cooler, smaller, red-dwarf type stars.




Boeing has pledged to make hypersonic passengers planes a reality - and says they could be operating within a decade.

'I think in the next decade or two you're going to see them become a reality,' Boeing Chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg told CNBC at the Paris Air Show.

However, he admitted the firm still has to prove there are enough people who could afford tickets to make it worthwhile.

'I think in the next decade or two you're going to see them become a reality,' Boeing Chairman and CEO Dennis Muilenburg told CNBC at the Paris Air Show. He believes the firm's work on experimental craft such as the firm's work on the X-51 Waverider (pictured) would also prove invaluable.

'There is still work to do on closing the business case to make sense for our customers,' said Muilenburg, who said the firm's work on the X-51 Waverider would also prove invaluable.

'But we see future innovations where you could connect around the world in about two hours.'

Hypersonic jets, flying at up to Mach 5, or 3,800 mph, could allow passengers to dramatically cut journey times.

For example, a commercial flight from New York to Shanghai currently takes about 15 hours - but at hypersonic speeds, could take two.

NASA recently said it is is seeking proposals for the development of its supersonic X-plane, with plans to begin work as early as next year.

The Quiet Supersonic Transport (QueSST) low-boom flight demonstrator aims to produce a much lower 'boom' than other supersonic aircraft, and NASA is hoping to see the first flight tests take place in 2021, according to Aviation Week.

Lockheed Martin has been working on the preliminary design, with hopes to move on to build the demonstrator, but NASA has now opened the door for other companies to submit their own designs as well.

Boeing recently won a military contract to build a 'big bother' for the secretive X-37b spaceplane.

Boeing declined to say how much it will put into development of the vehicle, which it calls Phantom Express, with DARPA, which is an agency under the U.S. Department of Defense.

About the size of a business jet, Phantom Express will take off like a rocket, boost itself beyond the atmosphere and release an expendable second-stage rocket and satellite, then turn around and land like an airplane on a runway.

The project, known as XS-1, is expected to debut in 2020, and military bosses claim it will 'bolster national security by providing short-notice, low-cost access to space.'

NASA is backing plans to return to supersonic flight, with its Quiet Supersonic Transport (QueSST) low-boom flight demonstrator aims to produce a much lower 'boom' than other supersonic aircraft, and NASA is hoping to see the first flight tests take place in 2021

HOW THE PHANTOM EXPRESS WILL MAKE SPACE AFFORDABLE The XS-1 program envisions a fully reusable unmanned vehicle, roughly the size of a business jet, which would take off vertically like a rocket and fly to hypersonic speeds. The vehicle would be launched with no external boosters, powered solely by self-contained cryogenic propellants. Once it reaches the correct altitude, the booster would release an expendable upper stage able to deploy a 3,000-pound satellite to polar orbit Upon reaching a high suborbital altitude, the booster would release an expendable upper stage able to deploy a 3,000-pound satellite to polar orbit. The reusable first stage would then bank and return to Earth, landing horizontally like an aircraft, and be prepared for the next flight, potentially within hours. Advertisement

Despite the skepticism of supersonic and hypersonic planes being commercially viable, there is a resurgence in interest in ultra-fast airliners.

Colorado-based Boom Technology is meeting with prospective partners and clients at the Paris Air Show. Boom is developing a 55-seat supersonic jet it hopes to sell to airlines and have in service by early next decade.

THE PLANE THAT FLEW PASSENGERS FROM LONDON TO NY IN THREE-AND-A-HALF HOURS Concorde was a turbojet-powered supersonic passenger jet that was operated until 2003. It had a maximum speed over twice the speed of sound at Mach 2.04 (1,354 mph or 2,180 k per hour at cruise altitude) and could seat 92 to 128 passengers. It was first flown in 1969, but needed further tests to establish it as viable as a commercial aircraft. Concorde entered service in 1976 and continued flying for the next 27 years. The inability to turn a profit on supersonic flights between the U.S. and Europe is what ultimately killed the Concorde. It is one of only two supersonic transports to have been operated commercially. The other is the Soviet-built Tupolev Tu-144, which ran for a much shorter period of time before it was grounded and retired due to safety and budget issues. Concorde was jointly developed and manufactured by Aerospatiale and the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC) under an Anglo-French treaty. Concorde's name, meaning harmony or union, reflects the cooperation on the project between the United Kingdom and France. In the UK, any or all of the type are known simply as 'Concorde', without an article. Twenty aircraft were built including six prototypes and development aircraft. Air France (AF) and British Airways (BA) each received seven aircraft. The research and development failed to make a profit and the two airlines bought the aircraft at a huge discount. It was first flown in 1969, but needed further tests to establish it as viable as a commercial aircraft. Concorde was retired in 2003 due to a general downturn in the commercial aviation industry after the type's only crash in 2000, the September 11 attacks in 2001, and a decision by Airbus, the successor to Aerospatiale and BAC, to discontinue maintenance support. The inability to turn a profit on supersonic flights between the U.S. and Europe is what ultimately killed the Concorde. British Airways and Air France flew the Concorde for more than 30 years and never made money shuttling a limited number of passengers across the Atlantic in roughly 3 hours. The Concorde made its last flight in 2003. Advertisement

Boeing recently revealed a project to develop passengers planes that don't need a pilot and aims to test some of the technology next year.

Jetliners can already take off, cruise and land using their onboard flight computers and the number of pilots on a standard passenger plane has dropped to two from three over the years.

The idea may seem far-fetched but with self-flying drones available for less than $1,000 (774), 'the basic building blocks of the technology clearly are available,' said Mike Sinnett, Boeing's vice president of product development.

Boeing is looking to test the technology in a simulator this summer and use it in real aircraft from next year, Mike Sinnett, vice president of product development said (stock image)

SELF-DRIVING PLANES Jetliners can already take off, cruise and land using their onboard flight computers and the number of pilots on a standard passenger plane has dropped to two from three over the years. Mike Sinnett, Boeing's vice president, a pilot himself, plans to test the technology in a cockpit simulator this summer. He said he will 'fly on an airplane next year some artificial intelligence that makes decisions that pilots would make'. Airlines are among those backing the idea, in part to deal with a projected need for 1.5 million pilots over the next 20 years as global demand for air travel continues to grow. Advertisement

Mr Sinnett, a pilot himself, plans to test the technology in a cockpit simulator this summer.

He said he will 'fly on an airplane next year some artificial intelligence that makes decisions that pilots would make'.

Self-flying aircraft would need to meet the safety standards of air travel, which had its safest year in 2016, according to the Aviation Safety Network, the world's biggest plane maker said in a briefing ahead of the Paris Airshow.

They would also need to convince regulators who don't yet know how to certify such planes.

'I have no idea how we're going to do that,' Mr Sinnett said.

'But we're studying it right now and we're developing those algorithms', he said.

Airlines are among those backing the idea, in part to deal with a projected need for 1.5 million pilots over the next 20 years as global demand for air travel continues to grow.

But a self-flying plane would need to be able land safely as Captain Chesley Sullenberger did in the 'Miracle on the Hudson,' Mr Sinnett said.

'If it can't, then we can't go there.'

Boeing is also inching closer to creating its next new aircraft to plug a gap in its product line, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Chief Executive Kevin McAllister said in a separate briefing

A U.S. Airways plane hit a flock of geese shortly after taking off from New York in 2009 knocking out its engines but Sullenberger managed to glide the Airbus A320 to a safe landing on the Hudson River, saving all 150 passengers on board.

Boeing is also inching closer to creating its next new aircraft to plug a gap in its product line between its best-selling narrow-bodied 737 and its larger 787 Dreamliner.

It aims to bring the new jet to customers around 2025.

After in-depth talks with nearly 60 customers it concluded that current wide-body planes have too much range for most of the routes narrow-body planes fly, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Chief Executive Kevin McAllister said in a separate briefing.

'This is a market that cannot be served by narrow-bodies - not by ours or our competitors'' he said, referring to rival Airbus.

'It can be served by wide-bodies, the question is can it be more efficiently served by a targeted airplane?'
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It's fairly depressing being greeted with smug, sun-soaked holiday snaps of celebrities all over social media.

So you can't help but smile at these parody shots, shared by one of Instagram's best-loved comedians.

Celeste Barber, a 35-year-old Sydney-based mother-of-two, has gained an army of more than 1.8million followers with her witty re-enactments of celebrity photos.

And her holiday-themed creations do not disappoint.

She's mimicked carefully composed beach shots from the likes of Alessandra Ambrosio, Kelly Rohrbach and Miranda Kerr and compared Kim Kardashian's private jet selfie to her own grizzly economy flight in Australia.

Read on for a collection of shots that are far more relatable than the summery celebrity selfies they poke fun at.

Celeste Barber (right), a 35-year-old Sydney-based mother-of-two, has gained an army of more than 1.8million followers with her witty re-enactments of celebrity photos, in this case Alessandra Ambrosio's (left)

Kourtney Kardashian looks poised and polished in this pool snap (left), but Celeste, in jest, seems to be struggling somewhat (right)

Chrissy Teigen looks ravishing as she does a spot of cooking clad in hotpants (left), but Celeste is going straight in for the wine as she stirs the pot in her re-enactment (right)

Most of us do indeed resemble Celeste (right) far more than supermodel Miranda Kerr (left) when applying body lotion

Kelly Rohrbach (left), star of the upcoming Baywatch remake, is delightfully windswept. Celeste (right) is more ocean-swept

Miranda Kerr posted this artful snap detailing the contents of her handbag (left). Celeste soon followed with her own (right)

It might look graceful when a model does it (left), but Celeste demonstrates the slight absurdity of practicing yoga on the rocks with her imitation (right)

Yolanda Fostser is a vision as she gazes out to sea underneath a palm tree (left). Celeste (right) battles the foliage

Comparing her journey to that of Kim Kardashian's (left), Celeste (right) captioned this: 'Thanks @VirginAustralia for sitting me in between two men who were six weeks into their "deodorant is for losers" regime'

Victoria's Secret Angel Adriana Lima showcases her rock hard abs (left), but for the rest of us, getting beach body ready isn't so easy

Paris Hilton looks into the horizon with a cow in the background (left). Celeste does the same, but appears to be having more fun

Khloe Kardashian and Kendall Jenner are having the time of their lives on this sunny yacht (left). Celeste aboard a ferry on a windy day? Not so much

Amber Rose presents her pearly whites (left), but we all know the process of tooth-whitening is far from glamorous (right)

Britney Spears looks at home gyrating on the beach (left). Celeste, however, is seconds away from being swamped (right)

Doutzen Kroes (left) appears proud of her healthy green juice, but Celeste poses with a tumbler of something else and her child in the frame

Coco Austin (left) is clearly promoting a dieting product. Celeste is much more fond of her Kit-Kat bars
'Sustainable tourism' once stood for a few rustic hotels scattered around the world.

It's since had a somewhat glamorous overhaul, with lavish and diverse lodges popping up in destinations near and far, from the northernmost snowy reaches of Sweden to the forests of Madagascar.

To that end, National Geographic has announced its 21 Places to Stay if You Care About the Planet list, highlighting the eco escapes that are leading the way in terms of sustainability - without scrimping on luxury.

The Brando, for example, in French Polynesia, is late actor Marlon Brando's eco-dream brought to life; a stunning private island run on 100 per cent renewable energy sources, including solar power and coconut oil.

Head off to Vietnam and lose yourself at the breathtaking Topas Ecolodge in Sa Pa, which organises special treks into Hoang Lien National Park, a global biodiversity hotspot.

Here, MailOnline Travel has rounded up ten of the collection's most wanderlust-worthy lodges from every corner of the planet.
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These aircraft have the vital role of transporting the world's most powerful people through the skies.

So it's no wonder they're equipped with a mind-boggling array of advanced features - and cost an arm and a leg.

From Theresa May's VIP A330 to the 1.2billion fleet belonging to the Emir of Qatar and Donald Trump's 780million 747 (that has its own operating theatre) to Angela Merkel's 235million A340, scroll down to find out more about the private jets that shield presidents and prime ministers as they travel the globe.

Theresa May, Airbus A330, 195million

The specially-adapted Airbus A330 houses a small VIP area with two ottoman chairs located in the front part, and if desired, sliding curtains can be closed to offer the Prime Minister privacy from the rest of the delegation

Recently, the 32nd squadron of the United Kingdom acquired its own Airbus A330 for 195million. The main purpose of the new airliner is to carry Prime Minister Theresa May on official government trips. This change resulted in savings up to around 1.5million on private plane charters.

May's aircraft is modest in terms of the materials used and the cabin configuration. A small VIP area with two ottoman chairs is located in the front part, and if desired, sliding curtains can be closed to offer some privacy from the rest of the delegation.

The main body of the aircraft cabin is occupied by 58 business class seats created for the accommodation of ministers and their deputies. The tail portion is occupied by 100 economy class seats for journalists.

Donald Trump, Air Force One, 780million

Air Force One is equipped with a medical suite that acts as a fully functional operating room should the president require emergency surgery

Air Force One is the name of any United States Air Force aircraft carrying the president of the US at any time. Donald Trump relies primarily on two identical customized planes, both heavily modified Boeing 747-200B models.

Air Force One has a number of secure communication channels and security systems to protect from standard attacks, as well as any unusual occurrences such as targeted electromagnetic impulses. One is also equipped with a medical suite that acts as a fully functional operating room.

Trump has substantial living space on board. With a cabin area of nearly 4,000-sq-ft, accommodations include a bedroom, bathroom, gym and offices. It also has personal space for each of his accompanying retinue members. Higher ranks have separate offices at their disposal, while others have a place to work and to rest.

There is a separate area for the accompanying news reporters. Altogether, the presidential aircraft is capable of comfortably accommodating 70 passengers and 26 members of the crew.

Vladimir Putin, IL-96-300PU, 390million

The government installed an advanced communication system on board Putin's aircraft that allows it to act as a management centre capable of carrying out the prompt commandment of troops in case of unexpected conflict

Vladimir Putins flagship aircraft is a wide-bodied, long-haul airliner that is easily distinguishable from the passenger model by its extended fuselage fairing.

The government installed an advanced communication system on board that allows the aircraft to act as a management centre capable of carrying out the prompt commandment of troops in case of unexpected conflict.

While the exterior of the aircraft looks largely the same as the basic model, the cabin is lavishly decorated with tapestries and gold accents. The furniture and interior decor are finished in the neoclassical style, and the planes are equipped with a spacious office, a bedroom and a fully-equipped gym.

The presidential air squad is comprised of four of the presidents first-choice aircraft rather than one. This is not a case of reliability, but one of security. As soon as knowledge of an international flight is public, all four aircraft are readied for departure. The specific plane to be used by Vladimir Putin is not known until take-off.

After the choice is made, either one or all three of the remaining planes follow the president as the reserve. In total, the air squad's fleet is made up of 68 planes - 64 of them are utilised, while the remaining four are kept in storage.

Angela Merkel, Konrad Adenauer, 235million

German Chancellor Angela Merkels aircraft boasts apartments with showers, bedrooms, offices, a conference hall with video communication equipment and a completely soundproof room for negotiations

German Chancellor Angela Merkels most famous aircraft is an Airbus A340-313X VIP, also referred to as the 'Konrad Adenauer' after the first post-war Chancellor of Germany. In addition to the Konrad, Chancellor Merkel has several other planes at her disposal, all managed by the German armed forces.

The Airbus A340-313X VIPs can accommodate approximately 150 passengers each. There are apartments with showers, bedrooms, offices, a conference hall with video communication equipment and a completely soundproof room for negotiations.

The air fleet also boasts missile defence systems, as well as additional fuel tanks, allowing for non-stop flights up to 8,390 miles. This impressive range is enough to get from Berlin to Washington, Beijing or Rio de Janeiro.

Queen Elizabeth II, No. 32nd Squadron, 77.5million

The Queen and other members of the Royal family rely upon the 32nd squadron of the United Kingdom for transportation, as revealed by the UK-based Air Charter Service.

These include two AW109 helicopters for travelling distances under 620 miles, six BAE-125 planes with a flight range of up to 1,860 miles, as well as four mid-sized reactive BAE-146 planes that are used primarily on the territory of the UK.

Until recently, the Royal Family leased ordinary Boeing 747s or Boeing 777s from British Airways or Virgin Atlantic airways for travelling long distances. Currently, the Queen and her family members can be transported for important events by the planes and helicopters of the Royal Air Force.

Emir of Qatar, fleet of Airbus and Boeings, 1.2billion

The Emir of Qatar, Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, is one of the wealthiest people on the planet. As such, he is the owner of a truly spectacular air fleet used by numerous members of his royal family.

On official trips, he is accompanied by an entourage of at least 1,000 people. The weight of the carried cargo is measured in tonnes, and consists not only of various personal items for the Emir, but even limousines to be used by him in the destination country.

The individual transportation of the head of the government, however, including his family members and higher government officials, is carried out by a separate VIP airline, Qatar Amiri Flight, set up in 1977.

Francois Hollande, Airbus A330-200, 210million

The former French presidents Airbus A330-200 has a bedroom with a large bed, a bathroom, a dressing room, a kitchen, an office, a soundproof negotiation room for 12 people, a mini operating room, as well as a space designated for journalists and members of the delegation accompanying him.

Prior to 2010, leaders of France used an Airbus A319 for official air travel. However, in 2009 an incident occurred with one of the planes.

Nicolas Sarkozy, president of France at the time, was leading the representational governmental delegation on a multi-day tour across Africa. Prior to takeoff, the plane was forced to return from the airstrip due to the failure of one of the engines. Although the reserve aircrafts system worked perfectly throughout the rest of the tour, upon the president's return to France, the decision was made to sell both of the Airbus A319s.

Xi Jinping, Boeing 747-400, 195million

Unlike his contemporaries, China's leader, Xi Jinping, does not own a personal aircraft.

The General Secretary of the Communist Party of China uses two Boeing 747-400s belonging to Air China for his government visits and business trips.

Both of the airliners are used for regular passenger flights. However, as soon as the president plans an upcoming foreign visit, the planes are carefully examined by the leaders security service, which may take up to several weeks.

After the examinations, the aircraft are sent for refitting, during which some of the cabins seats are dismantled and replaced with a spacious living room, a bedroom and an office. Specific details of the additional manipulations are not known.

Upon his return, the planes are given back to Air China and restored to their original state to be used for passenger flights again.

Sultan of Brunei, Airbus A340-212, 170m

The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, purchased this aircraft, nicknamed the 'Flying Palace', for 80million. An additional 95million has been spent on its reconstruction and modernisation, all of which took place in the US.

The aircraft makeover not only added an incredibly luxurious cabin, decorated with precious metals, gems and valuable wood, but also significantly developed its flight features.

Due to the installment of additional fuel tanks, the ultimate non-stop flight range increased to 9,320 miles, whereas the basic model is only 7,767 miles.
She gave birth to her beautiful daughter Phoenix three years ago.

And Tammin Sursok has revealed she hasn't truly felt confident about her post-baby body... until now.

The Pretty Little Liars star, 33, spoke about her secret body struggles in an Instagram post on Sunday.

'I haven't felt truly confident in a bikini since I gave birth to my 10 pound daughter': Tammin Sursok shows off her INCREDIBLE figure in a swimsuit as she reveals her secret body struggles

Sharing a video of herself dancing in a red and white striped bikini, Tammin said that she was finally excited for summer.

'This is how I feel about summer,' she wrote.

'I haven't felt truly confident in a bikini since I gave birth to my 10 pound daughter almost 4 years ago.

Happy dance: Sharing a video of herself dancing in a bikini, she wrote that she was finally excited for summer

'Thank you @Markrhinosmith for kicking my butt. It hasn't been easy but results happen when you sacrifice short term goals,' she added.

Mark Smith is an actor and bodybuilder from the UK, who starred in the British version of Gladiators.

Tammin's been based in America Since 2006, where her profile sky-rocketed thanks to her stint on iconic daytime soap The Young and the Restless.

She raises her four-year-old daughter Phoenix in the country, alongside her actor hubby Sean McEwen.

Gorgeous: Tammin flaunted her stunning pregnancy figure in a bikini when she was expecting four-year-old daughter, Phoenix
She has been enjoying married life since secretly marrying husband Tom Ackerley in Byron Bay in December.

And now Margot Robbie could be getting ready for motherhood, if claims in an Australian magazine are to be believed.

The Wolf Of Wall Street star, 26, and her British husband 'may have conceived during a trip to Hawaii in March', reports NW.

Gossip: Margot Robbie (left) could be getting ready for motherhood, if claims in an Australian magazine are to be believed. Pictured with husband Tom Ackerley in April 2017

'Margot's been ready for motherhood for a while now, and Tom can't wait to be a dad,' a source reportedly said.

They added: 'Having kids was a big part of why they decided to tie the knot. Margot's traditional and wanted a ring on her finger before they started a family.'

The insider, described as 'a friend of the couple', also claimed Margot and Tom will raise their children in Australia, where her family lives.

Claims: The Wolf Of Wall Street star, 26, and her British husband 'may have conceived during a trip to Hawaii in March', NW magazine reported this week

Family plans? 'Margot's been ready for motherhood for a while now, and Tom can't wait to be a dad', the source reportedly said. Pictured: Margot and Tom in LA earlier this month

'She's made her mark in Hollywood and the job offers come to her now, so there's no need for her to be in LA,' they added. 'She adored her childhood growing up in Australia and wants her kids to have the same upbringing.'

Margot previously claimed she wants to raise her children Down Under during an interview with Channel Ten's The Project in July 2016.

She was being interviewed at her childhood home with her mother Sarie Kessler, and emphasised that Australia will always be home.

Returning Down Under? The insider, described as 'a friend of the couple', also claimed Margot and Tom will raise their children in Australia, where her family lives

So in love! Margot and Tom first met while filming Suite Francaise in London four years ago

Sarie said: 'I didn't know you were going to live overseas all the time... Margot will have children one day and they'll be who knows where.'

But the Suicide Squad star reassured her mother, saying: 'They'll be here... Yes, yes, the kids will be in Australia.'

Margot and Tom, who met while filming Suite Francaise in London four years ago, married in Byron Bay, NSW in December.
The parents of Belinda Emmett, Michael and Laraine, have spoken about their ongoing grief at the loss of their daughter to breast cancer aged just 32.

In an interview with New Idea published on Monday, the couple say they 'remember her every day' and still have a 'close' relationship with her widower, Rove McManus.

'Rove's got his own wife and we respect that, but we stay close,' Michael said.

Loss: The parents of Belinda Emmett have spoken about their ongoing grief at the loss of their daughter to breast cancer aged just 32. Pictured: Belinda and Rove McManus at 2001 Logies

Michael and Laraine also spend time with Rove's three-year-old daughter Ruby, who he shares with second wife Tasma Walton.

'It's nice to have the little ones around... It's lovely to have (Ruby) in our lives as well. It's not in a huge way, but it's pretty wonderful,' Michael said.

The couple continue to mourn the daughter they lost in 2006 following an eight-year battle with breast cancer. Belinda was first diagnosed at just 24.

The NSW-based grandparents visit a memorial bench set up in Belinda's honour on the Ettalong coastline, where they reside.

Grief: In an interview with New Idea, father Michael (pictured with Rove at Belinda's funeral) says the couple 'remember her every day' and have a 'close' relationship with her widower

Ongoing relationship: 'Rove's got his own wife and we respect that, but we stay close,' Michael said. Pictured: Belinda at the ARIA Awards in Sydney in 2002

Wedding day: Rove married Belinda in January 2005 at the Mary Immaculate Church in Waverley, Sydney, a year before she lost her cancer battle

They also celebrated what would have been Belinda's 40th birthday three years ago.

'On things like her birthday, we make the effort. We go to her seat frequently and just sit there and contemplate... We remember her every day,' Michael added.

Rove married Belinda in January 2005 at the Mary Immaculate Church in Waverley, Sydney, a year before she lost her cancer battle.

'We remember her every day': 'On things like her birthday, we make the effort. We go to her seat frequently and just sit there and contemplate,' Michael said. Pictured in December 2002

Second chance at love: In 2009, Rove remarried after actress Tasma Walton (right) proposed to him by creating a painting that read, 'Marry me?' Their daughter Ruby was born in 2013

In 2009, Rove remarried after actress Tasma Walton proposed to him by creating a painting that read, 'Marry me?'

Rove celebrated his wedding anniversary to Tasma, 43, over the weekend.

The 2Day FM evening host marked the occasion by sharing a loved-up Instagram photo taken at the beach.

'Thanks for a pretty bloody fantastic 8 years,' the 43-year-old wrote. 'Lots of love from the guy who was lucky enough to have you ask him.'

The couple's daughter, Ruby, was born in 2013.

'Thanks for a pretty bloody fantastic 8 years': Rove celebrated his wedding anniversary to Tasma, 43, over the weekend
She recently split from the father of her baby daughter.

But Amy Childs has her own dad to lean on as she celebrated Father's Day on Sunday.

The ex TOWIE star enjoyed a cosy lunch with her dad Billy, who looked proud as punch as he lovingly cradled his granddaughter Polly during the family outing.

Her number one guy: Amy Childs has her own dad to lean on as she celebrated Father's Day on Sunday, following her recent split from the father of her baby daughter Polly

Amy dressed for the scorching temperatures in a pretty black and pink print dress for the day out in Romford, Essex.

The new mum showed off her trim waist in the fitted number, which flowed out into an eye-catching printed skirt.

She added towering heels to accentuate her legs further and kept cool in a pair of statement shades.

Besotted: The ex TOWIE star enjoyed a cosy lunch with her dad Billy, who looked proud as punch as he lovingly cradled his granddaughter Polly during the family outing

Coordinating perfectly, Amy carried a pretty pink bag which matched daughter Polly's pram.

Dad Billy looked delighted to spend the day with his girls, proudly pushing Polly in her pram before carefully cradling the tiny baby as Amy loaded up her car.

Amy paid tribute to her beloved dad on Instagram on Sunday, sharing a snap of Billy and Polly cuddled up, alongside the sweet message: 'Happy Father's Day to my amazing dad Love you more than anything dad! Polly and I love you so much'

Summer fun: Amy dressed for the scorching temperatures in a pretty black and pink print dress for the day out in Romford, Essex

My girl: Amy took charge of Polly's pram as Billy shared a hug with his granddaughter

Last week it was revealed the mum-of-one had parted ways 'amicably' with the father of her child, Bradley Wright.

In a statement released to MailOnline, her spokesperson confirmed: 'Amy has not thrown Brad out, but they have split up amicably.

'Brad will of course see Polly whenever he likes and they will remain friends.'

Looking great: The new mum showed off her trim waist in the fitted number, which flowed out into an eye-catching printed skirt

Mum skills: Amy watched on as Polly's pram was loaded into her car

I got you babe: Billy couldn't wait to have a cuddle with adorable Polly

The day following the split, the reality personality was seen looking glum as she took her daughter out in her pushchair for lunch in Essex.

In October, Amy confirmed to OK! magazine that she was expecting Polly with her jailbird boyfriend Bradley after trying to get pregnant.

The couple were trying for a baby before he served his five-month spell in prison for handling stolen goods last year.

Leggy: Amy showed off her legs in her short skirt and towering heels

Matching: Coordinating perfectly, Amy carried a pretty pink bag which matched daughter Polly's pram

All I need is you: The ex TOWIE star looked in good spirits despite her recent love split

In a candid interview with the publication, the star discussed how she was 'shocked but happy'.

The pair met in a pub in Essex two years ago but their relationship came to a halt in 2015 when Bradley was sentenced to 16 months in prison for handling stolen goods.

The jailbird, who is already father to daughter Lexi from a previous relationship, only served five months of his sentence as he was released early for good behaviour.

Amy, who reunited with her on-off beau in March, was excited to break the news of her pregnancy, claiming both parties were overjoyed with the announcement.

Support system: Amy paid tribute to her beloved dad on Instagram on Sunday, sharing a snap of Billy and Polly cuddled up
Sarah Michelle Gellar looked to be in a mad last minute dash on Sunday.

The 40-year-old actress popped into unisex clothing shop Ron Herman on the morning of Father's Day, possibly looking to score a gift for husband of 14 years Freddie Prinze Jr.

Gellar wore a denim vest with an off-the-shoulder grey top, black floral short shorts and silver platform shoes for the shopping trip.

Mad dash: Sarah Michelle Gellar looked to be in a hurry as she did some shopping on the morning of Father's Day Sunday in Los Angeles

It appears she left without buying anything, instead clutching on to her mini Louis Vuitton purse, a book and her iPhone all in her left hand.

That same day, she posted a photo of her husband holding balloons with their seven-year-old daughter Charlotte for Father's Day.

With the pic she wrote: 'Dad - a sons first hero, a daughters first love #happyfathersday.'

Platform: She wore a pair of towering platform shoes with silver straps as she ran the errand

They also have a four-year-old son named Rocky, who was born in September 2012.

Sarah and Freddie co-starred in 1997's I Know What You Did Last Summer, but didn't begin dating until three years later when they were meant to have dinner with a mutual friend, but the friend cancelled.

'We decided to have dinner anyway and never looked back,' Gellar told People.

Touching: 'Dad - a sons first hero, a daughters first love,' she wrote along with this photo of husband Freddie Prinze Jr and their seven-year-old daughter Charlotte

They married in Mexico in 2002 after co-starring in the live-action Scooby Doo movies.

In the late 90's and early 2000's, they dominated the teen genre, Sarah with her role as Buffy in TV's Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and Freddie as a teen heartthrob in movies like She's All That.

Gellar recently released a cookbook titled Stirring Up Fun With Food: Over 115 Simple, Delicious Ways To Be Creative In The Kitchen.
They've been the picture of happiness and seem to be enjoying their new romance after meeting at a party in Los Angeles recently.

But according to NW Magazine, there could be trouble in paradise for former OC star Mischa Barton and her new Australian model boyfriend, James Abercrombie.

The publication claims 'friends' of the actress are concerned about James' intentions, and now that the star is back on her feet they don't want to see her hurt again.

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'He's very ambitious': Mischa Barton's friends are worried her Australian fashion model boyfriend James Abercrombie's intentions

The magazine references his manager's recent statement - confirming their budding relationship - but also stating James was looking for representation in Los Angeles.

The magazine reports that James 'has publicised his budding relationship...to boost his profile' and he is very proud of his relationship with the beautiful star.

'He's very ambitious,' a source told the publication of James.

Questioning his motives: The magazine references his manager's recent statement - confirming their budding relationship - but also stating James was looking for representation in Los Angeles

'Mischa's getting her life back on track after a lot of drama and although she's doing well, her friends are understandably worried about her new relationship.'

'He didn't have an Instagram until very recently and immediately posted a picture of them together, and he seems to love being spotted with her.'

The magazine also reports that some of his friends commented on his Instagram snap of the pair, commending him for going out with the actress.

'You've done it': The magazine also reports that some of his friends commented on his Instagram snap of the pair, commending him for going out with the actress

'You've done it,' one pal reportedly wrote, while another added: 'Yes James.'

The snap on his Instagram has since been deleted, while Mischa has no images of the pair on her own Instagram account.

Earlier this month, Daily Mail Australia exclusively revealed that James and Mischa had been dating for the last few weeks.

No stranger to the finer things in life, James is the son of former Victorian Liberal Party treasurer Andrew Abercrombie, who this year was reported to be worth $574m according to the AFR Rich List.

New love: Earlier this month, Daily Mail Australia exclusively revealed that James was Mischa's new man, with the pair dating for the last few weeks

The dark-haired stud's Melbourne-based agency Bucknall Management/ FRM Model Management confirmed the pair's new-found relationship.

'James is currently dating well known actress Mischa Barton,' FRM Model Management director Stephen Bucknall (who discovered the budding male model) confirmed.

'He was recently on a ski trip to Aspen, after which he headed to Los Angeles- where we are currently making appointments for him to seek representation.

'James met Mischa at a party in Los Angeles just on a month ago. They then headed off on a small trip to France,' the agency revealed.

'He is now back in Los Angeles and they are spending a lot of time together.'

Instagram snaps published to James' page depict a glimpse of his high-flying lifestyle, with images of his private jet in Cannes, luxury yacht in Italy and his Aspen holiday digs.

Model on the rise: Instagram snaps published to James' page depict a glimpse of his high-flying lifestyle

Once a politician, James' father Andrew is one of Australia's richest businessman and chairman of successful company FlexiGroup.

Andrew and his wife Shadda are the proud owners of two mansions in Victoria - one in the wealthy suburb of Toorak purchased for $14m in 2007, as well as a holiday home in the exclusive resort town of Portsea, which is currently on the market for $5m.

They also own an apartment inside the swanky Alto Villas building in Mt Buller, a luxury resort village in eastern Victoria.

The Abercrombie family made headlines last year when thieves stole more than $1m worth of jewels from their lavish Melbourne home.

Struggles: Last month, DailyMail.com revealed that Mischa had been granted an extension to restraining orders against two former boyfriends

Last month, DailyMail.com revealed that Mischa had been granted an extension to restraining orders against two former boyfriends, who she believes are trying to sell an explicit sex tape of her.

The footage was being touted to online porn companies, with a number of industry giants still considering the offer.

At the start of the year, the former child star had also endured a highly publicised 'meltdown', which saw two of her neighbours call emergency services after she allegedly threatened to kill herself.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted representatives of Mischa and James for comment in relation to this article.
They called time on their 11-year relationship in September last year.

But Australian actress Naomi Watts, 48, has found time to pay tribute to her ex-partner Liev Schreiber, 49, in a gushing Instagram post.

Naomi shared a photo of Liev with their two children Sasha, nine, and Samuel, eight, on Monday for Father's Day.

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'This great dad': Naomi Watts has paiod tribute to ex-partner Liev Schreiber in a gushing Instagram post following their split

The black and white snap showed Liev holding his two sons in his arms after what appears to be a swim on the beach.

Naomi captioned the picture: 'Happy Father's Day to this great dad'.

While the snap has racked up over 25,000 likes and many supportive comments, some fans were quick to say: 'Wait, didn't they separate? Really?'

Over: The couple called time on their 11-year relationship in September last year

The photo of the sweet moment comes just weeks after Naomi was reportedly furious with Liev or breaking a pact not to date anyone publicly for a year.

According to last month's issue of Woman's Day, the Australian actress is not happy with Liev striking up a new relationship with interior designer, Morgan Brown.

'She is so upset because he's gone back on his word and she feels betrayed and humiliated,' a friend reportedly told the magazine.

Liev was spotted enjoying an intimate coffee date with Morgan in LA just a few weeks ago.

The Ray Donovan star appeared loved-up as he took a PDA-filled stroll around the neighbourhood with Morgan, who once dated Gerald Butler.

It comes after Naomi spoke out about their split in an interview with Red Magazine.

She said: 'Right now Im at a point where Im healing and just wanting to protect the family unit, and were doing, so far, a pretty good job with that.'
They last called it quits back in February, but four months later, Blac Chyna and Rob Kardashian appear to be back on.

The notorious on-off couple celebrated Father's Day together at Disneyland on Sunday, and the 30-year-old reality star was all smiles as he carried their seven-month-old daughter, Dream's baby capsule to his car.

Parked outside of his ex's house, Rob was also seen carrying boxes - presumably Father's Day gifts - outside.

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Doting dad: Rob Kardashian was all smiles as he carried his seven-month-old daughter, Dream's baby capsule to his car

Big happy family: Rob and Blac Chyna along with their daughter, Dream Kardashian, seemed to have a blast at Disneyland

The once troubled star was being trailed by Chyna's four-year-old son King Cairo with ex Tyga, 27.

At one stage, he gave the cute little boy an affectionate pat on the head.

While King didn't join his mom and Rob at Disneyland, the on-off couple did take their infant daughter along.

And after a fun-filled day together, Chyna, 29, took to Instagram to pay tribute to her baby daddy.

Happy days: The once troubled reality star appeared to have had a great first Father's Day with his ex and daughter

Me and my shadow... Rob was also seen carrying boxes - presumably Father's Day gifts - outside, and was trailed by Chyna's four-year-old son, King Cairo

Close bond: At one stage, he gave the cute little boy an affectionate pat on the head, before getting into his car

Today was a good day: It seemed like a good day for the video vixen who flashed a bright smile while carrying a tweed Chanel tote and donning cute Daisy Duke shorts

'Happy Fathers Day @robKardashian,' she captioned a sweet photo of the three of them with Minnie Mouse, adding a love heart emoji.

Both mom and dad took to social media to share photos of their adorable baby girl throughout the day, with both sharing a series of pictures of Dream before they left the house.

'Getting ready for Fathers Day,' the 29-year-old Instagram model captioned video of her daughter on Snapchat, dressed in pink and donning a pair of sunglasses.

Family outing: Rob celebrated his first Father's Day with his ex, Blac Chyna, and their daughter, Dream, at Disneyland

United: The smiling trio posed for a series of photos with Minnie Mouse herself, appearing as one happy family

The happiest place on Earth? One photo shows the crying tot sitting on her smiling mom's lap while they all rode the It's A Small World ride together

Whatever works... At one stage, Rob was seen holding the restless baby up into the air as they rode It's A Small World

Meanwhile, Rob shared his own snapshot from what appeared to have been the same house.

In his photo, Dream can be seen chewing on a Minnie Mouse toy while sitting in her walker.

And the posts didn't stop there.

After arriving at Disneyland, both Rob and Chyna continued to share photos and videos from their day together with fans on Snapchat.

Hero status: Another photo shows Dream sitting in her pram wearing a Minnie Mouse cap. Rob added a 'Superdad' logo to the image

Ready to go: 'Getting ready for Fathers Day,' the 29-year-old Instagram model captioned video of her daughter on Snapchat, dressed in pink and donning a pair of sunglasses

Having a wheelie good time... Meanwhile, Rob shared his own snapshot of Dream in her walker from what appeared to have been the same house

One photo shows the crying tot sitting on her smiling mom's lap while they all rode the It's A Small World ride together.

'Dream is over this it's a small world,' the 30-year-old Arthur George sock designer captioned the photo.

Another photo shows Dream sitting in her pram wearing a Minnie Mouse cap.

Meeting the Mouse... Later, they took to Toon Town, where the family visited Minnie Mouse's house

She nose what's up... Little Dream appeared fascinated by Minnie's plastic black nose, as she came face-to-face with the Disney icon

Saying hello: Chyna shared video of Dream meeting Minnie for the first time, while being held by her dad

Rob added a 'Superdad' logo to the image, which shows the silhouette of a superhero in the style of Superman.

The pair also bought their daughter a pair of Minnie Mouse ears, getting her name and the day's date embroidered on the back.

Later, they took to Toon Town, where the family visited Minnie Mouse's house.

Just the big girls... Chyna also took advantage of the opportunity to strike a pose alongside Minnie Mouse

All ears... The pair also bought their daughter a pair of Minnie Mouse ears, getting her name and the day's date embroidered on the back

The smiling trio posed for a series of photos with Minnie Mouse herself, appearing as one happy family.

Chyna also shared video of Dream meeting Minnie for the first time, while being held by her dad.

The family put on a united front once again, when they posed for another photo alongside Mickey Mouse.

Getting in on the action... Chyna was also seen hamming it up alongside Mickey Mouse during their day at Disneyland

Princess: Later, the bleached blonde bombshell posed for a solo photo in front of Cinderella's castle

Chyna is seen holding Dream, who appears to be squealing with excitement, while a smiling Rob leans in towards them.

Later, the bleached blonde bombshell posed for a solo photo in front of Cinderella's castle.

Clad in a pair of pink Minnie Mouse ears, Chyna can be seen flashing the peace sign at the camera.

A meeting with Mickey... Rob shared a sweet photo of Dream coming to grips with Mickey mouse while being held by her mom

Earlier in the day, Rob had taken to Instagram to share a photo of himself cradling his daughter back when she was a newborn.

The tired dad appears half-asleep as Dream rests her head against his neck and cheek.

'Happy Father's Day to all the GOOD Fathers out there!' he captioned it.

Doting dad: Earlier in the day, Rob had taken to Instagram to share a photo of himself cradling his daughter back when she was a newborn

Heading home: 'Thank You @disneyland for the best first Father's Day trip with my baby,' he captioned this photo

Clearly enamored with his little girl, Rob later shared two more photos of Dream on Instagram.

'Thank You @disneyland for the best first Father's Day trip with my baby,' he captioned a photo of his daughter strapped into her car seat with her Minnie Mouse hat still on.

'Dream going to sleep GOOD tonight,' he captioned a second photo of the sleepy baby all tucked into bed.
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She's famous for her unreal curves and bubblegum flavored rap.

And Iggy Azalea's world-class curves took center stage at Sunday's Much Music Awards in Toronto.

The Fancy songstress showed some skin in a blush pink dress which laced up the side to reveal the Aussie starlet's naked thigh, bare flank, and curving chest while expertly hugging her prominent posterior.

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Blushing beauty! Iggy Azalea donned a bold pink dress which laced up the side to reveal the Aussie starlet's naked thigh and bare flank

The Work singer's dress featured a thigh high slit which transitioned into a series of crisscrossing silver strands which snaked up her torso to show off her bountiful bust.

Iggy's flashes of flesh were at her chest and hips seemed to suggest the starlet opted not to wear underwear with the provocative piece.

The blonde beauty paired her blush colored frock with soft blonde tresses and a bold pout while chic metal stilettos topped things off.

Praying for no problems! Although she looked effortlessly beautiful, the Fancy singer revealed that the dress was 'very hard to get on because this chain kept breaking' which left her nervous it she might have a wardrobe malfunction at the awards

Show off! The Work singer wasn't shy about showing off her curving bosom and bare legs in the provocative dress

Glam gal: The Mo Bounce rapper paired her blush colored frock with soft blonde tresses, a bold pout, and fluttering lashes

Although she looked flawless, Iggy revealed that her sexy ensemble was being a bit difficult before she hit the pink carpet.

'It was very hard to get on because this chain kept breaking' the star said on the red capet, adding 'I'm nervous, I'm nervous if it breaks.'

She wrapped up her worrying with a wish, saying 'I don't want a wardrobe malfunction, please!'

Comando? Iggy's flashes of flesh suggested the starlet opted not to wear underwear with the provocative piece

Baby got back: The Aussie beauty made sure to flaunt her world class posterior while striking a pose on the pink carpet

The songstress later got on stage to perform her new song Switch.

Camilia Cabello wowed in a elegant white frock that revealed her delicate decolletage in a deep cut neckline which she adorned with luxe accessories.

The Havana, Cuba native looked ethereal in a flowing white gown with water color-esque splash upon its skirt in red, blue and purple hues.

Work of art! Camela Cabello looked ethereal in a flowing white gown with water color-esque splash upon its skirt

The A-list: The 24-year-old was the evening's first performer, making an entrance in the chest displaying white gown

A matching white scarf added another degree of glamour to the look.

Camila teamed the chic look with strappy red heels, romantic curls, and a bombshell smoky eye.

Nikki Bella also made an eye-popping display in a black and gold lace gown that plunged low to reveal her bountiful cleavage while a deep thigh slit showed off her legs.

Diva style: The former Fifth Harmonizer accessorized with strappy red heels, romantic curls and a bombshell smoky eye

Thigh's the limit! Nikki Bella dazzled the pink carpet at Sunday's much music where she left little to the imagination in a plunging dress with thigh-high slit

The WWE Diva was glam as ever in her sultry frock, combining sheer lace with a provocative silhouette for a sexy evening look.

She combined the smoldering gown with sleek tresses and a bold red lip that she matched with a crimson manicure.

Although her fiance John Cena wasn't beside her, onlookers could spot the hefty engagement ring upon her right hand as she struck a pose.

Red hot! The WWE Diva combined the provocative frock with sleek tresses, crimson lips and a matching manicure

Pop life! Canadian darling Carly Rae Jepsen donned a bold shorts and tee set by Moschino which ooozed pop art chic

Canadian darling Carly Rae Jepsen donned a bold shorts and tee set by Moschino which ooozed pop art chic.

She teamed the trendy set with white heels while keeping her short blonde locks pinned back neatly.

Ever the fan favorite, the Emotion singer took a second to take selfies with her fans before heading inside.

Fan favorite! The Emotion singer took a second to take selfies with some thrilled looking fans before heading inside

Bald and beautiful! Keke Palmer wore a classic black velvet dress to contrast her shaved tresses and their bold purple hue.

She wears the pants! Kat Graham took charge in a mariachi inspired suit which featured a smartly tailored jacked embellished with a glittering heart and lobster

Kat Graham took charge in a mariachi inspired suit which featured a smartly tailored jacked embellished with a glittering heart and lobster and was teamed with a sheer lace blouse with red necktie.

The Vampire Diaries talent topped things off with a pair of simple black Louboutins and glowing skin.

Niall Horan of One Direction fame looked handsome in a teal Levi jacket he paired with black duds and a relaxed scruff along his jaw. He later joined to crowd to chat with fans.

Boy oh boy: Niall Horan of One Direction was handsome in a teal Levi jacket, black duds and a relaxed scruff along his jaw

Star power! The This Town crooner later joined to crowd to chat with fans, who were thrilled to spend a moment with the star

Disney Darling! Dove Cameron looked angelic in a floral dress She also carried a chic book clutch by Olympia Le Tan

Fashion daredevil Keke Palmer was uncharacteristically simple, wearing a black velvet dress with elegant spaghetti straps.

The Scream Queen's classic dress contrasted her new shaved tresses and their bold purple hue, which the former Nickelodeon starlet intensified with plum colored lip gloss and a matching mani-pedi.

Darren Criss was laid back in a creative sweater with suede vest while flaunting his showstopping smile

Orphan Black's Tatiana Maslany was chic in a blue and black leopard set which she teamed with patent leather kick with a ruffle detail, textured tresses and a smoldering smoky eye.

Meow! Orphan Black's Tatiana Maslany was chic in a blue and black leopard set which she teamed with patent leather kicks

Beaming! Darren Criss was laid back in a creative sweater with suede vest while flaunting his showstopping smile

Dove Cameron was pretty as a princess while parading her thin stems in a ruffling floral frock embellished with rhinestones and sequins.

The Disney beauty's white-blonde tresses added an angelic touch besides her blush pink eyelids and glowing cheeks.

She accessorized with a chic book clutch by Olympia Le Tan and stacked heels in a nude hue.

Sheer genius! Shay Mitchell looked effortlessly chic in sheer chiffon jumpsuit she paired with diamond drop earrings

Space case! Lights put a sci-fi twist on sexy, donning a white dress which paired nicely with her flaming red tresses

Shay Mitchell was another wonder in white, looking effortlessly chic in sheer chiffon jumpsuit she paired with diamond drop earrings and sleek hair.

Victoria's Secret Angel Martha Hunt put a femme twist on a suit while flaunting her slim stems in bold bell bottoms paired with an off the shoulder blouse.

Later on the red carpet, she ran into pal Camila Cabello and the pair shared an enthusiastic embrace.

Best buddies! Later on the red carpet, she ran into pal Camila Cabello and the pair shared an enthusiastic embrace.

In good shape! Singer Bea Miller was chic in high-waisted trousers paired with a geometric bustier

Canadian artist Lights put a sci fiction spin on a sexy look, while donning a clingy white dress which revealed her bare legs beneath sultry straps.

Her flaming tresses added another unique touch to her vibe.

Singer Bea Miller was chic in high-waisted trousers paired with a geometric bustier.

Spellbinding! Asha Bromfield and Haley Law, who play Josie and The Pussycats band members Melody Valentine and Valerie Brown on Riverdale, radiated #BlackGirlMagic in their red carpet looks

Anyone like ginger? KJ Apa was dapper in a deep charcoal shirt paired with leather shoes and his Archie red locks

Several of the up and coming stars of Riverdale appeared at the function.

KJ Apa was dapper in a deep charcoal shirt paired with leather shoes and his Archie red locks.

Asha Bromfield and Haley Law, who play Josie and The Pussycats band members Melody Valentine and Valerie Brown on Riverdale, radiated #BlackGirlMagic in their red carpet looks.

Words for the wise: Actress and internet personality Lilly Singh made a statement in a white tee that read 'Love Thy Sister'

Bell sleeve of the ball! Shenae Grimes was cute in a monochrome look with a pussy-bow blouse and bell-sleeved jacket

Asha was bold in sheer tulle skirt adorned with green and blue hexagons while Haley looked like an earthy godess in a long white skirt, nude tank and beautiful natural hair.

Shenae Grimes was cute in a monochrome look which featured a pussy-bow blouse and bell-sleeved jacket paired with a hardware-heavy leather skirt and gingham heels.

Actress and internet personality Lilly Singh made a statement in a white tee that read 'Love Thy Sister' which she jazzed up with a floorsweeping coat made from silver and blue brocade.

Just like heaven! Victoria's Secret Angel Martha Hunt put a femme twist on a suit, flaunting her slim stems in bold bell bottoms

Among tonight's honors at the much Music video Awards are 'Video Of The Year', 'Fan Fave Video', Most buzzworthy International Artists Or Group' and many more.

The show, originally known as the Canadian Music Video Awards, will be hosted by hitmakers Alessia Cara and Joe Jonas of DNCE.

Tonight's iHeartRadio Much Music Video Awards begin at 9pm ET/ 6pm PT and are streaming live.

Time to DNCE! Joe Jonas (center left) is hosting the awards show along with songstress Alessia Cara. Above Joe can be seen with his DNCE bandmates Cole Whittle (far left), Jinjoo Lee (center right) and Jack Lawless (far right)

Hostess with the mostest! Alessia Cara was co-hosting the show along with Joe Jonas of DNCE
It's the show that features contestants renovating each other's houses in a bid to win the ultimate $200,000 prize.

But the casting process for the Channel Seven reality show House Rules has come under fire.

According to Woman's Day on Monday, several contestants bought their houses 'suspiciously close' to October last year, when filming kicked off.

Sneaky purchases? Queensland team Aaron and Daniella (left) and Tasmania's Sean and Ella (right) have been accused of buying their properties 'suspiciously close' to the start of House Rules' filming, Woman's Day reported on Monday

The publication reports that Tasmania team Ella and Sean purchased their home for $330,000 in March last year.

Queensland's Aaron and Daniella's purchase date was also called into question.

The couple shelled out for their $730,000 dwelling in April 2016 according to realestate.com.au.

New digs: Ella and Sean bought their Tasmanian home for $330,000 in March last year

Upgrade: Taking part on House Rules meant other teams battled it out to renovate their place

The dubious timing was soon spotted by fans of the show, who took to social media to voice their concerns that the properties were only bought so they could take part in the show.

'Was it bought especially for the show in view of its condition?' one social media user wrote.

Another posted: 'The process is - apply for show first with "cute, ratings-acceptable couple" pics, then buy (any) house for audition'.

Recent purchase: Queensland's Aaron and Daniella bought their home for $730,000 in April 2016, while filming for House Rules started in October

Timing is everything: Viewers questioned whether the home was bought in light of its condition as they knew they could get it renovated on the show

House Rules, now in its fifth season, has been plagued with controversies in the past.

In the past, the renovation series has been accused of featuring judges Wendy Moore, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen and Drew Heath as 'villanious' in a bid to draw in viewers.

After a disappointing ratings debut, the show dropped its prize to $200,000.

Previously, winners would have their entire mortgage paid off.
Naomi Watts is set to adopt a baby girl, a new story published on Monday claims.

A source reportedly told New Idea magazine that the actress, 'Should welcoming a baby daughter' by August or September.

The source goes on to say that the 48-year-old 'always regretted not having kids earlier' and would have, 'liked to have had four children'.

Adopting? Naomi Watts is set to adopt a baby girl to add to her brood of two sons, a new story published on Monday claims

The source reportedly added: 'She's so excited by the prospect of having a daughter'.

Naomi has been considering adoption for three years, the New Idea story alleges, and already has a name picked out.

The child will have the middle name Myfanwy, after Naomi's mother, according to the publication.

Naomi has two sons, Samuel, 8 and Sasha, 9, with former partner Liev Schreiber, 49.

More kids? Naomi has two sons, Samuel, 8 and Sasha, 9, with former partner Liev Schreiber, 49

A source reportedly told New Idea magazine that the actress: 'Should welcoming a baby daughter' by August or September

Girly girl: The source reportedly added: 'She's so excited by the prospect of having a daughter'

Naomi and Liev called time on their 11-year relationship in September last year but are still close.

On Sunday, the Mulholland Drive actress paid tribute to the father of her children in a heart-warming Instagram post, sharing a photo of Liev children for Father's Day.

Naomi captioned the picture: 'Happy Father's Day to this great dad'.

Partners in parenting: Naomi and Liev called time on their 11-year relationship in September last year

Dedicated parents: The pair co-parent and remaind close despite parting ways as partners

Tribute: On Sunday, the Mulholland Drive actress paid tribute to the father of her children in a heart-warming Instagram post, sharing a photo of Liev children for Father's Day

It comes after Naomi spoke out about their split in an interview with Red Magazine.

She said: 'Right now Im at a point where Im healing and just wanting to protect the family unit, and were doing, so far, a pretty good job with that.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Naomi Watts for comment.

On family, Naomi said: 'Right now Im at a point where Im healing and just wanting to protect the family unit, and were doing, so far, a pretty good job with that'
They shocked their fans when they announced their split early last year after ten years of marriage.

And on Monday's edition of The Morning Show, Michael Klim spoke about his split with wife Lindy, saying the ordeal 'has been challenging.'

The former swimming champion, 39, also revealed the impact of the split on their three young children.

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Case of the ex: Michael Klim has spoken about his split from wife Lindy (pictured together in April 2015) and has revealed the impact on their three children

'Yeah look I'm very happy, my partner Dessie is here today and the kids are super happy,' he said, referring to new girlfriend Desiree Deravi.

'I think they've established now too, they're quite comfortable having the two sort of home environments.'

'It has been challenging but I've had great support from everyone now so it has been good.'

Moving forward: Michael said the children are used to 'two home environments'

New love: Michael said he is now 'happy' and is pictured with new girlfriend Desiree Deravi

The pair share children Stella, 11, Rocco, nine, and Frankie, six, together.

Michael and Lindy announced their split in February last year.

Last month, Lindy told The Sun-Herald she was keen to finalise the divorce so she can 'move on' and marry her British fiance Adam Ellis.

With the split being far from amicable, the 39-year-old Balinese princess told the publication: 'It's very difficult'.

In happier times: The pair share children Stella, 11, Rocco, nine, and Frankie, six, together

On the subject of divorce proceedings, she explained: 'Hopefully (a resolution) will all happen soon. I am ready for that to be over.

'It's not a good thing to go through. We are just getting through it,' she continued.

With relations between the former couple becoming strained, Lindy said of their very public break-up: 'It is what it is. It is very difficult.'

This is not the first time that Lindy has spoken of her failed marriage to the 39-year-old former Olympic swimmer.

Smitten: Last month, Lindy told The Sun-Herald she was keen to finalise the divorce so she can 'move on' and marry her British fiance Adam Ellis (pictured)

In a very candid interview with Harper's Bazaar, she said: 'I've learnt to be a much stronger person. I'm not a pushover anymore.

'A divorce is a really stressful and overwhelming thing - you can't pretend it's OK. It just doesn't work for everybody.'

Lindy explained she has become far more independent since the split.

The model also alleged she used to ask her ex-husband if she wanted to buy things during their marriage.

'I used to get away with preferring not to know things. I was like, "I don't want to know about that, it's too hard", or, "I have to ask my husband if I can buy that item". I don't want to be that person,' she added.
It's an event that only comes around once a year.

And now countless Aussie celebrities living abroad have taken to social media to honour their dads on Father's Day, which was celebrated in both the UK and US on Sunday.

Hugh Jackman was one of the first to post a tribute message and was closely followed by a flock of others.

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Love you dad! Hugh Jackman and other Aussie celebrities living abroad have taken to social media to honour their dads on Father's Day, which was celebrated in both the UK and US on Sunday

Hugh posted a snap of him and his father Christopher with their arms around each other's shoulders as they cuddled up in a cafe.

He captioned the picture: 'Happy Father's Day to all!'

'I am in awe of you': Meanwhile, Teresa Palmer shared a snap of her with her husband Mark Webber and their six-month-old son Forest all cuddled up together

Meanwhile, Teresa Palmer shared a snap of her with her husband Mark Webber and their six-month-old son Forest all cuddled up together.

She captioned the sweet moment: 'Happy Fathers Day sweet hubby of mine. The boys are touched every day by the magic you pour in to parenting.'

'I'm in awe of you and so grateful. We love you'.

Tribute: Naomi Watts shared a black and white photo of her ex-partner Liev Schreiber with their two sons Sasha, nine, and Samuel, eight

Naomi Watts shared a black and white photo of her ex-partner Liev Schreiber with their two sons Sasha, nine, and Samuel, eight.

'Happy Father's Day to this great dad,' she added to the snap.

The tribute left fans confused and wondering about the status of their relationship, as the snap comes just weeks after Naomi was 'furious' with him for moving on with another woman.

Throwback! Australian Victoria's Secret model Shanina Shaik shared a photo of her laughing in a stroller as a baby with her dad lovingly looking down on her

Australian Victoria's Secret model Shanina Shaik shared a photo of her laughing in a stroller as a baby with her dad lovingly looking down on her.

'Even though it's not Father's Day in Australia, I wanted to celebrate my dad anyway,' she captioned the throwback picture.

'There is nothing like that special bond between a father and his daughter. I love you daddy! Thank you for always making me laugh'.

Co-star: Isla Fisher chose to take a different approach with her tribute post as she honoured her Now You See Me co-star, Morgan Freeman.

Isla Fisher chose to take a different approach with her tribute post as she honoured her Now You See Me co-star, Morgan Freeman.

She captioned the hilarious post: 'Since the day I was born you have given me support and kindness and the confidence to perform. Happy Father's Day. #bestdadever'.

One fan agreed with the sentiment by saying: 'Morgan Freeman is everyone's dad'.

Rest in peace: Meanwhile, Robert Irwin took to Instagram to honour his late father, crocodile hunter Steve Irwin

Meanwhile, Robert Irwin took to Instagram to honour his late father, crocodile hunter Steve Irwin.

The photo showed an Robert being cradled by Steve as he beamed from ear to ear.

He captioned the pic: 'Happy Father's Day in the US!'

His older sister Bindi shared a throwback compilation video on Sunday of home videos of her as a toddler with her father, as she said: 'These memories will live with me forever.'
They're the longtime friends who have denied romance rumours for months.

And in another bizarre episode, New Idea has claimed that Terri Irwin has 'confirmed her true feelings' for Russell Crowe.

The publication alleges that the pair are 'going public at last,' citing the Australia Zoo owner's recent Tweet as proof.

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The rumours continue! New Idea has made a bizarre claim in its latest issue that Terri Irwin and Russell Crowe have taken their 'relationship' public with a 'miracle announcement'

Earlier this month, the 52-year-old wildlife conservationist retweeted her pal Russell's post, adding the message: 'Love is not a big enough word...'

As pointed out by Terri's management, her social media message was simply the name of a song from Russell's latest music release.

'As per always, Terri and Russell are not in a relationship, which has been confirmed by both Terri and Russell personally in multiple public interviews,' a representative told Daily Mail Australia.

That's clearly proof! The magazine claims Terri's recent tweet, which referenced the title of one of Russell's songs, is in fact the Australia Zoo owner's way of 'revealing her true feelings'

They're not dating! It comes after weeks of denials by both Terri and Russell, who shut down rumours of a 'wedding' in May. Pictured in Los Angeles in 2007

In May, Russell offered his take on rumours that he and Terri are getting married.

'The thing is Terri Irwin is quite frankly one of the most fabulous women on the planet. She is a beautiful person, an intelligent woman, so hard working, so honourable,' he told Nova 100's Chrissie, Sam & Browny.

'So the thing is I do love Terri Irwin. absolutely she's fabulous. Am I getting married to Terri Irwin  no,' the Gladiator star added, shutting down the rumour.

The actor's comments came after Terri also insisted she isn't dating anyone.

Still connected to Steve: Terri has previously shut down the magazine's claims, admitting that she hasn't 'dated anyone in the 10 years' since her husband Steve Irwin died

'I haven't dated anyone in the 10 years since we lost Steve, just because I feel a connection still with Steve,' Terri told Access Hollywood.

Despite saying that 'Russell has been very loyal as a great friend,' the mother-of-two insisted they are just friends.

Terri's daughter Bindi also claimed she believes her mother is 'still married to dad'. (Steve died in a freak stingray accident in 2006.)

'If you've found your soulmate you don't really want to move on, and mum had her soulmate,' the 18-year-old explained.
She stunned in her brief stint as a Real Housewife Of Atlanta.

And Claudia Jordan is still turning heads as she dazzled in a revealing one piece swimsuit in Miami Beach on Sunday.

The 44-year-old TV personality flaunted her enviable figure as she rocked a daring white number with gold embellishment.

Bathing beauty: Claudia Jordan, 44, dazzled in a revealing one piece swimsuit on in Miami Beach on Sunday

The former Price Is Right model made all the ladies jealous as she dazzled in a form fitting suit that revealed her ample bosom.

As she dared to impress, the Rhode Island native poured her svelte physique into the glittery couture that wrapped itself around her curves.

Never one to follow the tired trend, Claudia made a splash with a bold metallic choker that seemed an unusual choice to take a dip in the ocean.

Flaunt it: The TV personality flaunted her enviable figure as she rocked a daring white number with gold embellishment

Haters gonna hate: The former Price Is Right model made all the ladies jealous as she dazzled in a form fitting suit that revealed her ample bosom

New ideas: Never one to follow the tired trend, Claudia made a splash with a bold metallic choker that seemed an unusual choice to take a dip in the ocean

She slicked her gorgeous raven locks back in a fierce ponytail and added neutral tone makeup to her cover girl face.

Claudia wrapped the accessory category with a pair of dark retro shades and left her ears unadorned.

Joining her for the surf side excursion was friend and actress Annie Ilonzeh.

All wet: As she dared to impress, the Rhode Island native poured her svelte physique into the glittery couture that wrapped itself around her curves

Fancy friend: Joining her for the surf side excursion was friend and actress Annie Ilonzeh

It came from the sea: Her toned tummy took center stage as her gorgeous gams were revealed in the fashionable two piece

Hot stuff: The General Hospital star shot down any naysayers as she looked fabulous in a skimpy pink bikini

The General Hospital star shot down any naysayers as she looked fabulous in a skimpy pink bikini.

Her toned tummy took center stage as her gorgeous gams were revealed in the fashionable two piece.

Working the sandy beach like it was a catwalk, the beauty kept her raven locks in a tight bun.

Sand strut: Working the sandy beach like it was a catwalk, the beauty kept her raven locks in a tight bun

Furry pal: After a dip in the water, Annie let her hair down and was seen carrying a tiny dog

Fitness ladies: The gorgeous duo later walked the beach to get some exercise

The fun duo had a blast in the turquoise sea as they jumped and dodged waves.

An attractive mystery friend joined them in the water as they frolicked like sirens of the ocean.

The gorgeous trio later walked the beach to get some exercise.

Seconds please: They made their way back to the ocean for another dip

Trio of fun: An attractive mystery friend joined them in the water as they frolicked like sirens of the ocean

After a dip in the water, Annie let her hair down and was seen carrying a tiny dog.

Claudia and Annie could be seen hovering over the mystery friend later in the day.

Meanwhile, Claudia and Annie were in town for the American Black Film Festival.

Annie stars in All Eyez On Me, the Tupac Shakur biopic, which both ladies attended the screening on Saturday night.
She is a child of the late '90s.

And on Sunday, Sofia Richie sported a casual ensemble straight out of her birth decade for a lunch date in Malibu.

In honor of Father's Day, the 18-year-old stopped by celebrity hot spot Nobu for a meal with dad Lionel.

Eclectic: On Sunday, Sofia Richie, 18, sported a casual ensemble straight out of her birth decade for a lunch date in Malibu

Sofia wore a purple and-blue colored T-shirt, complete with a wolf face on it's front.

The young model added a pair of vintage, loose-fitting jeans and pink furry slides.

The blonde starlet completed her look with a bracelet, backpack mirror shades and a newsboy cap.

Bright: Sofia wore a purple and-blue colored T-shirt, complete with a wolf face on it's front

Relaxed: The young model added a pair of vintage, loose-fitting jeans and pink furry slides

Sofia took to Instagram to honor her dad Lionel.

'Happy Father's Day to big pimpin! Couldn't imagine this crazy life without you,' she began.

'Thank you for being the best dad you know to be @lionelrichie,' she wrote.

Happy Father's Day to big pimpin!': Sofia took to Instagram to honor her dad Lionel

Last month, Sofia said on Twitter that her dad tracks her phone, and she receives a notification.

But during an interview with USA Today, Lionel says that that's not the case.

'I keep trying to tell them. I don't track. I don't understand,' he began.

'Nicole [eldest daughter] thought I had investigators following her around. I keep trying to tell my kids the same thing: 'I own Chicago. I own Miami. I have been around the world. So when you go through the airport, I have friends. You cannot sneak into a club. I own that club.''

'So they think they are sneaky. So I get a phone call, 'Hey, just want to let you know Sofia just walked in.' I mean, did I call him? No. I'm not tracking.'

He also admits there are some things he'd rather not be aware of.

'At this point now, some things are too much information. There are some things you don't want to know,' says Richie. 'Kids have to be kids. At some point, you have to let them go do their thing.'
She is awaiting her husband Oliver Curtis' release from prison on Friday.

And with just four days to go, Roxy Jacenko has revealed her daughter Pixie, five, received medical treatment over the weekend.

The 37-year-old PR queen posted an Instagram photo of Pixie lying down getting a follow up ultrasound and X-ray the following Monday.

'Life certainly never runs to plan - what timing': With just four days until her husband's release from prison, Roxy Jacenko has revealed their daughter Pixie is receiving medical treatment

Roxy wrote in the caption: 'Life certainly never runs to plan - what timing. Such a brave little (angel emoji).'

A Sweaty Betty PR representative told Daily Mail Australia: 'We aren't sure as yet what is wrong with Pixie.

'She has been doubled over with abdominal pain since Friday afternoon so Roxy took her to Sydney Children's Hospital on Sunday morning with Hunter.

'Feeling so poorly': The Sweaty Betty PR founder, 37, claimed over the weekend that five-year-old Pixie was feeling sick

Unwell: A representative told Daily Mail: '(Pixie) has been doubled over with abdominal pain since Friday afternoon so Roxy took her to Sydney Children's Hospital on Sunday morning'

'They are conducting further tests now with an ultrasound and X-ray to try and determine a diagnosis,' they concluded.

Roxy later added that Pixie was now at home recovering, and that the image was taken while she had an ultrasound and X-ray on Monday.

'She is home now - the image is of her at a clinic this morning having an ultrasound and X-ray to determine what the problem is,' she explained.

The Double Bay socialite confirmed over the weekend Pixie was feeling unwell.

On Friday, Roxy shared a photo of Pixie sleeping in bed, writing in the caption that she was 'feeling so poorly'.

Family first: It is likely Roxy did not attend the wedding of her Ministry Of Talent employee, Danni Woodward, on Saturday because of Pixie's health issue

It is likely Roxy did not attend the wedding of Ministry Of Talent employee, Danni Woodward, on Saturday because of Pixie's health issue.

Meanwhile, the publicist is still going ahead with plans to travel to Melbourne for her 'In Conversation With Roxy Jacenko' seminar on Tuesday.

Her husband Oliver, who was jailed for insider trading in June 2016, will be released from Cooma Correctional Centre on Friday.

Plans: The publicist is going ahead with plans to travel to Melbourne for her 'In Conversation With Roxy Jacenko' seminar on Tuesday. Pictured: Roxy, Pixie, and three-year-old Hunter
Iggy Azalea has stirred new butt implant rumours after flaunting her extremely plump derriere at Sunday's Much Music Awards in Toronto.

The 27-year-old flaunted her extreme assets on the red carpet, putting on an eye popping display in a skin tight pink dress.

The Fancy songstress showed some skin in a blush pink dress which laced up the side to reveal the Aussie starlet's naked thigh, bare flank, and pert chest while expertly hugging her prominent posterior.

Got a lift? Iggy Azalea is facing new butt implant rumours after flaunting her extremely plump derriere at the iHeartRadio Video Awards

The NSW born performer again flaunted her behind in a clinging yellow two-piece while hitting the stage to perform her single Switch.

In both her pink ensemble and her racy yellow number, the beauty's gravity defying derriere was impossible to ignore, leading to speculation she may have gone under the knife to achieve the transformation.

While the rapper has been open about her nose and breast surgeries, she has in the past denied that she had changed her buttocks.

Busting out: The 27-year-old flaunted her extremely pert derriere at the iHeartRadio Video Awards, putting on an eye popping display

Big changes: In both her pink ensemble and her racy yellow number, the beauty's very pert derriere was impossible to ignore

'People have been saying I have bum implants forever, but I don't have butt implants. I have no problem talking about cosmetic surgery,' she said on an episode of The Project in 2015.

Although Iggy has not confirmed whether or not she's had butt implants since that interview, the former X Factor Australia judge has openly spoken about her other plastic surgeries.

In a March 2015 interview with Vogue magazine, Iggy admitted to going under the knife for breast augmentation.

Denial: 'People have been saying I have bum implants forever, but I don't have butt implants. I have no problem talking about cosmetic surgery,' she said on an episode of The Project in 2015

'Four months ago, I got bigger boobs! I'd thought about it my entire life,' she said, before adding she initially didn't want to tell anyone but decided, 'I wasn't into secret keeping'.

'I love them so much I had to talk about them,' she told E! Online a week later, adding with a laugh 'Everybody did say, 'I don't think you need to say it because no one will ever know because they're so small.''

Changes: In August 2015, the Australian revealed in that September issue of Seventeen that she did in fact have a nose job

She told the publication: 'I'm not denying it. Denying it is lame. I don't think you should be ashamed if you made a change to yourself, which is why I've spoken about the changes I've made, like with my breasts'

Iggy even caught up with the plastic surgeon, Dr Ghavami, who performed her breast enhancement surgery that same year and boasted on Instagram, 'He is the reason I have fabulously perky boobs'.

In August 2015, the Australian revealed in that September issue of Seventeen that she did in fact have a nose job.

Not as prominent: Iggy's behind has not looked as gravity defying in the past as it does now

She told the publication: 'I'm not denying it. Denying it is lame. I don't think you should be ashamed if you made a change to yourself, which is why I've spoken about the changes I've made, like with my breasts.'

That same year, she defended her decision to have a nose job, telling Elle Canada: 'I think, in 2016, people should be more accepting of the fact that both famous and non-famous women are having cosmetic procedures.'

Speaking to Ellen DeGeneres about her decision to go under the knife, Iggy said: 'I think it's a personal choice and anybody, man or woman, they should be able to make an informed decision.'

'And if you want to change something, then that's up to you,' she continued.

She added: 'I had nipples, and now I have breasts. Thought I could use some  that would be a good addition.'
He's the 'bad boy' Australian model who's been linked to the likes of Paris Hilton, and more recently Bella Hadid.

And now Jordan Barrett has been snapped in Milan placing a tender hand on his life-long friend and fellow model, Tahnee Atkinson.

The 20-year-old cut a relaxed figure as he shopped in Diesel with Tahnee, 25.

Just friends? Jordan Barrett has been snapped in Milan placing a loving hand on his friend Tahnee Atkinson's back

Shopping in Italy: The 20-year-old Byron Bay local cut a relaxed figure as he shopped in Diesel with Tahnee

Jordan wore a loose-fitting white T-shirt with a photo of actress Drew Barrymore on the front.

He teamed this with a pair of relaxed white pants that hung from his hips and fell to the ground.

He matched the ensemble with a pair of white flat slip-on shoes.

Jordan also carried with him a bottle of white wine.

White hot! Jordan wore a loose-fitting white T-shirt with a photo of actress Drew Barrymore on the front

Blonde bad boy: His blonde hair was pulled back into a messy man-bun and held secure on his head with a pair of black-framed glasses

His blonde hair was pulled back into a messy man-bun and held secure on his head with a pair of black-framed glasses.

Jordan walked beside his friend Tahnee, who wore a three-quarter-sleeved wrap-around crop top with a deep V neckline that flaunted her cleavage.

She teamed this with a pair of baggy black pants that were decorated with small white polka dots.

Revealing! Jordan walked beside his friend Tahnee, who wore a three-quarter-sleeved wrap-around crop top with a deep V neck that flaunted her cleavage

She matched the outfit with a pair of black slip-on shoes with a gold buckle.

The friends shopped in Diesel before leaving the store as Jordan placed his hand on her back as she walked ahead.

The pair cuddled each other before planting a kiss on each other's cheeks.

Jordan has been linked to countless female models and socialites, many of whom are significantly older than him.

Recently, he was spotted partying with 'It girl' Bella, who quickly became the latest in his growing list of rumoured flames.

As several publications and sources linked the pair, she took to Twitter earlier this week to deny they were 'dating.'

Model women: Recently, Jordan was spotted partying with 'It girl' Bella, who quickly became the latest in his growing list of rumoured flames

Last Monday, he enjoyed the company of the stunning brunette at her New York City apartment.

In January 2015, he denied rumours he was dating Paris Hilton, 36, after they were spotted getting cosy at the Cavelli Club in Milan, Italy.

And In May 2016, he was photographed holding hands with Lara Stone, 33, when they left a Vogue party in London's Kensington Gardens.

Jordan has also reportedly been close with Scott Disick's 'ex-fling' Megan Blake Irwin, 22, and American model Hailey Baldwin, 20.
Twin Peaks featured an intense interrogation Sunday between Diane Evans and her former boss Agent Dale Cooper.

Diane, played by Laura Dern, left the interview rattled but also convinced the prisoner despite matching fingerprints was not the stalwart FBI agent she knew.

The episode titled There's A Body All Right opened with Jerry Horne, played by David Patrick Kelly, lost in the woods after someone stole his car.

Tense interrogation: Diane Evans, played by Laura Dern,

He had a stilted cell phone conversation with his brother Benjamin Horne [Richard Beymer], owner of the Great Northern Hotel.

'I think I'm high!,' Jerry yelled into his iPhone before the line went dead.

Deputy Chief Tommy 'Hawk' Hill [Michael Horse] shared the pages from Laura Palmer's diary that he found hidden in a bathroom stall with Sheriff Frank Truman [Robert Forster].

Laura in her diary shared a dream in which Annie Blackburn [Heather Graham] told her that the 'Good Dale is in the Lodge and he cannot leave.'

Evil doppelganger: Evil Cooper was interrogated by his former assistant Diane

Lost in woods: The episode opened with Jerry Horne lost in the woods

Another page indicated that Laura knew her father Leland Palmer was after her and not the evil Bob.

Hawk guessed that Leland hid the pages in the police department bathroom.

Three of the four missing diary pages were found, but another was still missing.

Teaming up: Deputy Chief Tommy 'Hawk' Hill shared the pages from Laura Palmer's diary that he found hidden in a bathroom stall with Sheriff Frank Truman

Diary pages: Three of the four missing pages from Laura Palmer's diary were hidden in the police bathroom stall

Hawk figured out that it wasn't the Good Cooper who left the lodge with Annie.

Frank used Skype to converse with Dr. Will Hayward [Warren Frost] about the last time he saw Cooper.

Lieutenant Cynthia Knox came by to see the fingerprints that Detective Dave Macklay tried to run to identify a headless corpse.

Skype session: Frank used Skype to talk to Dr. Will Hayward about the last time he saw Cooper

The body: Lieutenant Cynthia Knox came by to see the headless body

No head: Nobody knows where the head is

'Where's the rest of him,' she asked.

'We don't know,' the detective answered.

The coroner said the deceased was a man in his late 40s who died a few days ago.

Hard to believe: She called upper brass after learning some disturbing facts

She then called upper brass and told Colonel Davis [Ernie Hudson] that the head was missing and he was the wrong age.

The colonel noted that if it was Major Garland Briggs that he should be in his 70s if he died recently.

FBI Deputy Director Gordon Cole, played by series creator David Lynch, and Special Agent Albert Rosenfield [Miguel Ferrer] worked on getting Diane Evans [Laura Dern] to see the imprisoned Evil Coper.

Same prints: Colonel Davis was told about the prints from the headless body matching Major Garland Briggs

Diane was reluctant to help, but Gordon and Albert teamed up to recruit her.

Gordon told how her former boss Agent Dale Cooper was in a federal prison in South Dakota.

'Good,' Diane said.

Recruitment mission: Diane was recruited by FBI Deputy Director Gordon Col and Special Agent Albert Rosenfield to see Cooper in prison

'Diane, this may require a slight change of attitude on your part,' hearing impaired Gordon said in his typically loud voice.

'My attitude is none of your f***ing business,' Diane replied.

'Tough cookie,' Gordon told Albert.

Tough cookie: Diane was called a 'tough cookie' by Gordon after she cussed him out

Gordon then borrowed a line after Diane brought out some java and said, 'Damn good coffee.'

Diane, Gordon and Albert then took a private jet to South Dakota.

Agent Tamara Preston went over Cooper's fingerprints with Gordon and Albert as Diane eavesdropped.

Tastes great: Gordon borrowed a line and said Diane poured 'damn good coffee'

Diane dropped f-bombs at the FBI agents before seeing Cooper.

'It's good to see you again, Diane,' Cooper told her.

'When was that, Cooper?,' she asked him.

Prison interview: Diane interviewed her former boss behind bars

Diane asked him if he remembered their last night together and Cooper said he always would.

'Same for me. I'll never forget it,' Diane said.

'Who are you?,' she asked him.

Never forget: She ominously told Cooper that she'll never forget the last time she saw him

'I don't know what you mean, Diane,' he replied.

She then demanded that Cooper look at her but he just stared ahead.

Diane was visibly upset after the interrogation and told Gordon that was not Dale Cooper.

Staring ahead: Cooper refused to look Diane in the eye and stared blankly

'It's something here,' she said pointing to her heart.

'There's something that definitely isn't here,' she said crying.

'That's good enough for me, Diane. That's good enough for me,' Gordon said.

Getting emotional: Diane was visibly upset after interrogating Cooper

Evil Cooper met with the prison warden and blackmailed him into allowing an escape.

Good Cooper in the form of Dougie Jones was still slowly acclimating.

Police were interviewing Dougie about his 'stolen' car when wife Janey-E [Naomi Watts] intervened and spoke for him.

Getting acclimated: Janey-E stood up for Dougie Jones who was still slowly acclimating

Dougie was attacked by Ike The Spike who tried to shoot him, but he disarmed him.

'Squeeze his hand off,' the brain tree told him as it suddenly appeared on the sidewalk.

Janey-E was proud of Dougie in the aftermath.

Assassination attempt: Ike The Spike pulled a gun on Dougie

Fast action: Cooper's police training kicked in and Dougie subdued the gunman

Tree brain: The brain tree told Dougie what to do

The episode ended with Beverly Paige [Ashley Judd] trying to track down a mysterious humming noise at the Great Northern Hotel in Twin Peaks.

She then went home to her ailing husband who asked why she was home so late.

'I had some things to do,' she told him.

The credits rolled with Shelly Johnson serving coffee and pancakes.

Mysterous noise: Beverly Paige tried tracking down a strange noise at the hotel

Sick husband: She argued with her sick husband who was waiting for her
She is said to be dating businessman David Hutchison after her 2016 divorce from third husband Will Kopelman.

But on Sunday, it was all about Father's Day for Drew Barrymore who spent the holiday with her most recent ex and their two daughters Olive and Frankie.

The former couple took their children to the celeb-frequented Ice Cream Museum in Downtown LA for a day of fun.

Scream for ice cream: Drew Barrymore and her ex-husband Will Kopelman took their daughters to the Ice Cream Museum in Downtown LA on Father's Day Sunday

The 40-year-old actress mixed patterns, sporting a black-and-white striped t-shirt with purple paisley print pants for the outing.

Her auburn locks were worn loosely under a blue hat and she rocked a quirky pair of pink sunglasses.

Will kept it casual in a green polo shirt with blue jeans and brown boots.

Family day: The former couple doted over daughters Frankie (L), three, and Olive, four

Drew called their divorce her 'worst nightmare' in an interview with Ellen earlier this year.

'I so wanted to raise kids in this ultra traditional way and do everything so the polar opposite of my experience,' she said.

Barrymore's father was Hollywood actor John Barrymore who battled alcoholism and was once described by his daughter as 'charismatic and odd.'

Together but separate: They have made a conscious effort to be active co-parents for their kids

She infamously partied at Studio 54, drinking and smoking as a pre-teen before being emancipated from her parents John and Jaid Barrymore at the age of 14.

Her unconventional upbringing lead to her desire to raise her daughters in the most traditional way, she told The Today Show.

'If I hadn't had such an odd childhood, I'm not sure I would be this voracious to be traditional,' she said.

Social: Barrymore shared this snap of her ex and their daughters together on Instagram

Happier times: They were married in June of 2012 and divorced in 2016, Barrymore called end of her third marriage her 'worst nightmare,' here they are seen at the 2014 Golden Globes

Now the actress is dating the senior vice president of Maesa Group, David Hutchinson, according to Us Weekly.

The new couple were spotted 'holding hands' over some sparkling conversation in New York last month, a source told the website.

The pair were also reportedly spotted over the weekend in Palm Springs, a source told Page Six.
Poldark may be trying to turn into the new MiC (Made In Cornwall) or a Downton Abbey prequel about the Crawleys more insipid ancestors.

But for us it will always be the story of the heros one true love.

No not Demelza, or even Elizabeth: himself of course.

Back to his old ways: Ross Poldark proved that he didn't really care about Demelza or even Elizabeth as he headed off on the high seas to France

Master Ross doesnt really care about either of them, as his endless wavering has suggested. His actions, and choices, on Sunday confirmed it.

Like last weeks promise to steer clear of the Warleggans, Poldarks assurances that he wouldnt return to his old ways and was now a new man who cared only about his family (like someone whod moved to the West Country from Ye Olde Walford) didnt last long. Less than one episode

Even though Elizabeth had just given birth to his son (Valentine !) and Demelza has revealed she too was pregnant with his baby, Master Ross seized the opportunity to get away from them to do what he really enjoyed most in life.

This was adventuring, as Truros version of Captain Hook, a sailor/smuggler named Tholly Tregirls, put it.

Expecting: He went adventuring despite the fact that Demelza has revealed she too was pregnant with his baby

Adventuring may sound like something seedy organised via the internet but was actually decidedly old-fashioned: heading off on the high seas with a bunch of fellow vagabonds with a glint in your eye and sword between your teeth to risk life and limb in a land beset by bloodshed, riot, murder, and mayhem. Or as we call it, France.

Poldarks idea of heaven !

Earlier he had insisted to Demelza that he had become a respectable country squire with a home, a mine, a family, and a wife. (Not to mention a baby with his ex.)

Even though he hadnt seen Tholly for 13 years and he was a shameless caricature Poldarks excuse for heading off to France was rescuing Dr Enys. Never mind that they didnt actually know if Doctor Dwight was there, or alive come to that.

Off Aidan Turner went, leaping on Champion The Wonder Horse, galloping across the cliff-top at sunset (again) with his mane blowing in the breeze (Poldarks that is) before jumping in Thollys boat, undercover.

New mother: Even though Elizabeth had just given birth to his son, Master Ross seized the opportunity to get away from them to do what he really enjoyed most in life

An old friend of my fathers has contacts there - a merchant known in the town willing to seek out information, he enthused. For a price

Smuggling contacts? Demelza sniffed.

Mais oui ma cherie !

Your father never could resist ! And I suspect twill not be long before were off on a jaunt again ! Tholly had cackled earlier.

Not if I can help it Poldark muttered.

But Tholly knew him too well, as we all did, and he couldnt.

Here are 9 more things we learnt in this weeks Poldark.

Disapproving: Demelza chastised Ross when he nobly turned down the offer of being made a magistrate

1. Demelza was such a nag it was no wonder Poldark wanted to get away  to war

Demelza chastised Ross when he nobly turned down the offer of being made a magistrate. And she was still complaining about a simple request to her brothers as he lay in bed, trying to relax after a hard days scything and ordering his servants to dig more tin. She had become a nag.

2. Geoffrey Francis was such a brat Ross nephew was more like a Warleggan

It was no wonder Poldark had no qualms about leaving young Jeff to be raised by George Warleggan. The boy humiliated Elizabeth, sniggering to his mother that his book never used to seem so amusing compared to Morwenna reading it. And when they chanced across Demelzas brothers Drake and Eminem the little brat sounded more like a Warleggan as he barked: this is private property ! My name is Poldark and this is Poldark land !

Drake is very common isnt he? he later remarked to his governess pompously, although to be fair he knew his hip-hop.

Struggling: Elizabeths was suffering from postpartum depression following the birth of baby Valentine

3. 1790s Cornwall was surprisingly ahead of its time

It turned out Drake also invented friendship bracelets, albeit only for women like Morwenna - when he wanted to make their hearts flutter. And not just their hearts (their wrists)

It also transpired that the inspiration for Malcolm Xs most powerful slogan had beenVerity Poldark.

We must get news of The Esmeralda by any means necessary ! she implored. Who knew?!

Ahead of its time: Morwenna receive a friendship bracelet from Drake, showing 1790s Cornwall was surprisingly ahead of its time

4. The local yokel preachers looked like a boy band

Demelzas brothers had great haircuts and six packs. It wasnt necessarily healthy when even his sister cooed: You have a beguiling way Drake. I tremble for the young maids hereabouts !

To be honest she didnt seem that worried. More excited

5. Poldark really does never tire of looking out to sea

What was Ross looking for, or at? Was Poldark secretly shot in Benidorm? It was always so sunny in Cornwall how could Demelza and Elizabeth be so pale?

Boyband: Demelzas brothers had great haircuts and six packs, making them look as if they were part of a modern day boyband

6. Poldark was turning into a prequel of Downton Abbey on holiday in Cornwall

Poldarks (mis)adventures were being bolstered by a string of sub-plots about Verity, Morwenna, and Caroline, who were all blandly attractive and well-groomed but (like their male suitors Dr Dwight and the Demelza brothers) not remotely interesting. All we want is to watch Poldark trying to choose between Elizabeth and Demelza, the poor, pretty airhead. Poldark, not Demelza

7. Demelzas moral code was not that profound

Im not that convinced about sin, Demelza declared to her brothers. I think more highly of love. My child, my dog, my home.

It was probably sacrilege choosing her dog over God but preferring love to sin was a no-brainer (like her).

Surely anyone married to Poldark would be more than convinced about sin by now.

Off to war: Poldarks assurances that he wouldnt return to his old ways and was now a new man who cared only about his family didnt last long

8. Dr Dwight was a better physician than writer

My most beloved wife, the good doctor penned Caroline from his ship as Britains navy repelled the revolting French. I write with some trepidation. Attack is inevitable. I beg that you not distress yourself.

Next time, maybe dont tell her about the impending attack then?

9. Carolines vision was Poldarks Twin Peaks moment and she its Red Woman

Un, deux, trois Fire ! commanded a Parisian general to a firing squad in Carolines fevered dream/vision, suggesting her French needed working on. She saw her husband Dr. Dwight and his ship-mates drop (dead) in an implausibly neat, bloody, pile. Miraculously though, Dwight was alive, standing again. Until, it appeared, he was then shot again. At close range

Did she tell Poldark about the doomed premonition/ vision about her husband before our hero set off for France, risking his life to look for him?

Non.
He's Home and Away's former hunky River Boy who left Summer Bay in 2016 to pursue a career in Hollywood.

And though Stephen Peacocke has enjoyed success in two hit films since his move, he has spoken of his preference to maintain a low profile.

The modest 35-year-old revealed to New Idea that laying low was his secret to avoiding the drama that often came along with the LA lifestyle.

Modest movie star: Stephen Peacocke, 35, explains why he maintains a low profile while working in Hollywood

'I think you just lie low, (and) do the work. I'm a quiet person by nature, so there's never too much drama that follows me around. I'll leave the drama to when they say "action",' he said

The Me Before You and Whisky Tango Foxtrot actor spoke openly of the opportunities that arose from the success of his US hit films.

But Stephen revealed he wouldn't go into a project unless it felt like the right fit, saying he needed to be 'choosy' with the offers he accepted.

Hollywood was calling! The former Home and Away River Boy left Summer Bay in 2016 to pursue a career in the US

The star admitted there were certain factors that came into play when deciding which opportunities to pursue.

'If you work on quality projects with quality people, things seem to work themselves out,' he said.

And it seems the Wanted actor is sticking to his guns, with him refusing to comment on any upcoming work.

Gotta be choosy! Stephen won't go into a project unless it feels like the right fit

'There are things in the works...But I don't like to talk about anything until it's actually happening.'

Stephen has returned to Australian screens for the second season of Channel Seven's drama, Wanted, where he plays Detective Josh Levine.

He was unsure of whether he would be part of the drama's sequel season and said he was 'so grateful' to be asked.

River Boy no more! Many opportunities arose for Stephen following the successes of his two US hit films




She's courted attention on the catwalks and now she is carving a career in acting.

Suki Waterhouse, 25, showed off her model physique as she made picturesque Los Angeles her runway as she enjoyed the glorious sunshine on Saturday.

Looking the picture of summer, the catwalk queen flaunted her long legs in the thigh-skimming yellow playsuit.

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From catwalk to sidewalk! Suki Waterhouse, 25, showed off her long legs in the thigh-skimming playsuit as she enjoyed the glorious sunshine on Saturday

The model caught the eyes of onlookers as she flashed a glimpse of her cleavage in the plunging neckline of her ruffled garment.

Suki dressed down her summer attire with preen flat brogues as she had no need to add to her statuesque model height.

On trend as ever, she accessorised with a circular pair of shades which sheltered her eyes from the sunshine.

Keeping her accessories to a minimum, the actress wore a single golden bangle with a black bag swung over her right shoulder.

Picture of summer! The actress, 31, teased a glimpse of her cleavage in the plunging neckline of the ruffled garment

As for romance, rumours are swirling again that she is dating Mexican actor and director Diego Luna, 37, after they spent a few days together in New York.

Suki was first romantically linked with the Rogue One: A Star Wars Story actor in January when they were spotted looking cosy during a trip to Mexico.

The young starlet was reportedly dating Game of Thrones actor Richard Madden, however her recent appearances with Diego suggested she's already moved on.

Glamorous: She showed her natural flare for fashion as she always looks stylish on or off the runway (Pictured at Elle Style Awards 2016)

Previously, Suki enjoyed a two-year romance with The Hangover star Bradley Cooper but the former flames parted ways in 2015.

At the time, a source told E! News: 'They both want different things right now.

'She loves Bradley and he loves her but she's so young and wants to concentrate on her acting career before becoming a mum.'

Starlet: More recently the British star has been filming on the set of new thriller Assassination Nation (pictured at London Fashion Week Spring Summer 2017 on September 2016)

Meanwhile in her career, Suki shot to fame as the face of Burberry, she is now trying her hand as an actress.

To date she has made an appearance in Pride And Prejudice And Zombies, Love, Rosie and Insurgent.

More recently the British star has been filming on the set of new thriller Assassination Nation.
She spent the previous day bonding with her husband and their six-month-old son for Father's Day.

But it was back to business as usual for Kaya Scodelario on Monday as the Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales star was pictured touching down in Tokyo, Japan, to promote her latest adventure flick.

The 25-year-old star opted to let her natural beauty shine through as she went make-up free for the flight, and was joined by her cheery co-star Johnny Depp.

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Natural beauty: Kaya Scodelario looked radiant as she touched down in Tokyo to promote her latest movie Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales on Monday

Despite the long-haul journey, the former Skins star looked fresh-faced and awake as she greeted fans who waited eagerly for the star inside Haneda airport.

The mother-of-one opted for a casual ensemble as she arrived in the city, though looked nonetheless chic in a striped red and white top that boasted lace detailing across the top.

She highlighted her lithe legs in simple skinny jeans and finished the ensemble with black boots that boasted a statement heel.

Sprightly: Despite her long-haul flight, Kaya was in high spirits as she arrived in the city and was joined by her cheery co-star Johnny Depp who looked every inch the guitar-toting rocker

Effortlessly stylish: The actress looked chic in a stripey top, that boasted intricate lace detailing, and skinny jeans

Signing autographs and taking pictures with fans, it was clear that Kaya was in high spirits as she sauntered through the terminal.

And it's hardly surprising given the special day the actress appeared to have with her family on Sunday.

Marking her husband Benjamin Walker's first Father's Day, the British actress made sure to dote on her spouse on social media.

These boots are made for gawking! Kaya brought the look to life with black boots that possessed a cool statement heel

Busy bee! Kaya has been hot on the promotional trail of the adventure movie, which also stars Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom

Sharing a collage of the actor with their son, whose name the star has chosen not to publicly disclose, she enthused: 'Happy 1st Father's Day you amazing man @findthewalker. I couldn't of wished for a better baby (and doggy) daddy.

'You fill our little ones life with happiness and love every single day. Thank you. We love you.'

The post came just a short while after Kaya opened up about her difficult childhood, telling the Mirror on Sunday: 'I was incredibly insecure as a child.

Devoted: Kaya stopped to sign autographs for fans as she sauntered through the airport

'I was bullied. Dyslexic. It really affected my self-esteem. I went through a year of hating myself.'

Such was the extent of her bullying, she eventually had to switch schools to evade the horrible atmosphere she experienced.

She added: 'I grew up in a very working class neighbourhood... A lot of my earnings went on bills and getting us a new sofa.'

Feeling the love: Kaya paid tribute to her husband Benjamin Walker on Instagram as he celebrated his first Father's Day on Sunday

Rock chic: Johnny Depp also put in an appearance, looking every inch the rocker as he arrived at Haneda International Airport

Meanwhile Johnny Depp also put in an appearance, looking every inch the rocker as he arrived at Haneda International Airport.

Jazzing up his all-black ensemble with a vintage leather jacket, he toted his guitar and accessorised with a hat, bandanna and sunglasses.

Johnny is said to have helped Paul McCartney join the star-studded cast's line-up.

The rocker has a role in the new Pirates Of The Caribbean movie Dead Men Tell No Tales, in which he plays a swashbuckling pirate.

And now it has been revealed how producers recruited The Beatles star for the movie after Keith Richards dropped out - with a little help from Johnny Depp.

After Rolling Stone Keith Richards dropped out of the movie, co-directors Joachim Rnning and Espen Sandberg made a list of potential replacements.

Musical pirate: Jazzing up his all-black ensemble with a vintage leather jacket, he toted his guitar and accessorised with a hat, bandanna and sunglasses

'We had even written a scene for Keith,' Rnning told Entertainment Weekly, explaining that scheduling issues meant the rocker couldn't make the Australian shooting schedule.

'We sat down with Johnny and kind of brainstormed, like, "Okay, who could fill his shoes?"... we made a very short list, and of course, at the very top of that list was Sir Paul McCartney.'

'Johnny, of course, has his phone number, as you do,' Sandberg said. 'I dont know what kind of club these people are a member of, but he had the phone number, so he said, "You know, Ill text him! No problem." So he did!

'He just texted Sir Paul, and Sir Paul texted back. And it went a little back and forth, and their lingo got more and more pirate-y, and it was like, well, this is going to happen!'

Connections: Johnny is said to have helped Paul McCartney join the star-studded cast's line-up
It was day two of Heston Blumenthal's 'road trip week' on Monday night's MasterChef Australia.

The contestants traveled to Victoria's North-West, where they were divided into teams of two and tasked with creating dishes inspired by the 'earth' element.

'My idea for my dessert is using some really bold, earthy flavours, including beetroot, roasted chocolate, and some grain flavours,' one keen contestant explained.

He's back! It was day two of Heston Blumenthal's 'road trip week' on Monday night's MasterChef Australia

Tamara said: 'I have a really strong idea for dessert inspired by a termite mound that's going to be made up of chocolate mousse, caramel earth, a caramel praline, and some of that local fruit.'

Unfortunately, the contestants ambitions were hampered by the extreme winds in the area.

'Because there's so much wind, they use the stove tops, they're going to be in real trouble,' explained concerned judge Gary Mehigan.

The contestants traveled to Victoria's North-West, where they were divided into teams of two and tasked with creating dishes inspired by the 'earth' element

'I have a strong idea for dessert inspired by a termite mound that's going to be made up of chocolate mousse, caramel earth, a caramel praline, and some of that local fruit,' said Tamara

'I want to cook on the stove, but the burner has actually gone out from the wind,' said a panicked Nicole.

'I've got to think of a Plan B for our lamb jus, how to cook my lamb, and how to do a parsnip puree,' she continued. 'I might grab a pressure cooker.'

'This wind is ridiculous!' she later cried.

'I want to cook on the stove, but the burner has actually gone out from the wind,' said a panicked Nicole

'I've got to think of a Plan B for our lamb jus, how to cook my lamb, and how to do a parsnip puree,' she continued. 'I might grab a pressure cooker'

'Very different to yesterday, the general feeling of panic,' observed Heston as he surveyed the stressed contestants.

Meanwhile, Callum was warned against mixing beef with chocolate.

Eventually it was time for their dishes to be judged.

Be careful! Callum was warned against mixing beef with chocolate

Looks tasty: Eventually it was time for their delicious dishes to be judged

Green team of Eloise and Diana were first up, passing with flying colors.

Red team's Tamara and Eliza were also praised for their dishes, but blue team's Callum was slammed for his under-cooked lamb.

In the end, purple team's Karlie and Nicole won first place, while Sam and Callum came last.
She will celebrate her milestone 50th birthday on July 1.

But Pamela Anderson looked effortlessly youthful as she rocked a Grecian inspired gown at the 57th Monte Carlo TV festival in Monaco on Sunday,

The former Baywatch babe oozed elegance in the glamorous gown by INGIE Paris which featured an ivory body, overlaid with stripes of black lace flowers.

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Blonde beauty: Pamela Anderson looked effortlessly youthful as she rocked a Grecian inspired gown at the 57th Monte Carlo TV festival in Monaco on Sunday

Demure: The former Baywatch babe oozed elegance in the glamorous gown which featured an ivory body, overlaid with stripes of black lace flowers

The floor-length frock hugged the star's enviably toned frame and showcased her lithe arms

Adding a touch of the eccentric and high fashion combined, the outfit featured a oversized ruffled sleeve with layers of tulle making a stylish sartorial statement.

The figure-hugging material flashed a hint of her famous assets when she turned to the side.

The mother-of-two went for pure Bridget Bardot with a chic and slightly shaggy 60s updo which framed her pretty face and feline eyes.

Bold: Adding a touch of the eccentric and high fashion combined, the outfit featured a oversized ruffled sleeve with layers of tulle making a stylish sartorial statement

Pamela accentuated her blue peepers with lashings of eyeliner and smoky shadow teamed with her signature baby pink lip.

She added height to her look with strappy black sandals.

The star looked glamorous, glowing and confident as she worked the cameras with a beaming smile.

It was the latest stop on her whirlwind tour of Europe after she was spotted visiting Wikileaks founder Julian Assange at the Ecuadorian Embassy last week.

Ageless: Joan Collins belied her 84 years in a tight ebony midi dress with daring sheer sleeves and neckline, covered in sequined flower detail

Handsome couple: The Dynasty actress, who was made a dame in 2015, was joined by dapper husband of 15 years, Percy Gibson, 52

The glittering festival, held in the heart of Monte Carlo at the Monaco Palace, also saw screen stalwart Joan Collins make a smouldering appearance.

The star belied her 84 years in a tight ebony midi dress with daring sheer sleeves and neckline, covered in sequined flower detail.

Joan opted for full-on bombshell make-up with smoky eyes, long fluttery lashes and scarlet lips, which showed off her youthful complexion.

Glamourpuss: Joan opted for full-on bombshell make-up with smoky eyes, long fluttery lashes and scarlet lips, which showed off her youthful complexion

Sparkling diamond chandelier earrings dangled from her eyes and she rocked pearlescent manicured talons.

The mother-of-three teamed her showstopper dress with black and white peep toe shoes, and sported her chocolate locks in her trademark bouncy blow-dry.

The Dynasty actress, who was made a dame in 2015, was joined by dapper husband of 15 years, Percy Gibson, 52.

Tangerine dream: Actress Bo Derek made a show-stopping arrival later on, by joining her fellow guests in a vibrant orange midi dress

Glowing: The 60-year-old cut an incredibly youthful figure in the frock, which plunged into a V at the chest before cinching in at her petite waist

All eyes on me: Skimming her figure to its sophisticated knee-length hem, the 10 actress then gave a flash of her enviably long and lean legs as she posed

Effortless: Sweeping her hair into a loose ponytail, the actress showcased her impressively smooth and glowing complexion to all

Actress Bo Derek made a show-stopping arrival later on, by joining her fellow guests in a vibrant orange midi dress.

The 60-year-old cut an incredibly youthful figure in the frock, which plunged into a V at the chest before cinching in at her petite waist.

Skimming her figure to its sophisticated knee-length hem, the 10 actress then gave a flash of her enviably long and lean legs as she posed for cameras.

Sweeping her hair into a loose ponytail to showcase her impressively smooth and glowing complexion, the Californian beauty then tied her look together with a chunky beaded necklace and co-ordinating heeled sandals.
Her character Bethany Platt is in the midst of a grooming scandal on popular ITV soap Coronation Street.

And with her recent harrowing storylines, actress Lucy Fallon looked delighted to be enjoying a break from the cobbles to get hair extensions at a Dublin salon on Saturday.

The 21-year-old looked worlds away from her teenage alter-ego as she put on a glamorous display with a bouncy blow-dry and flawless movie star make-up.

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Wow factor: Coronation Street's Lucy Fallon, 21, looked delighted to be enjoying a break from the cobbles to get hair extensions at a Dublin salon on Saturday

The blonde beauty looked happy and carefree as her extensions were fitted with soft smoky make-up accentuating her eyes and a baby pink pout.

She donned a dove-grey T-shirt emblazoned with 'reve', the French word for dream.

The T-shirt was knotted above the waist showing off a hint of the star's toned midriff.

She paired this with houndstooth trousers.

Me time: The blonde beauty looked happy and carefree as her extensions were fitted and looked worlds away from her character Bethany Platt

Glamorous display: The star's polished look (left) was a far cry from her character Bethany Platt's usual look (right)

The break comes after a particularly eventful six months for the actress.

Her character Bethany Platt is routinely abused by perverted older fiance Nathan Curtis and his wider circle of friends and associates.

In an upcoming episode on the ITV soap, the schoolgirl runs away with her older beau who plans to sell her to strangers in Belgium as a sex slave.

However as her terrified mother Sarah calls the police and begs them to stop the duo, Bethany seems to finally be wisening up to Nathan's evil plot.

Harrowing: The actress is in the midst of a topical grooming storyline on the ITV soap as her character, 16-year old Bethany Platt, is routinely raped and abused by perverted older fiance Nathan Curtis

Captivated: The star has admitted the disturbing scenes of sexual abuse are set to get even more difficult to watch

The star has admitted the disturbing scenes of sexual abuse are set to get even more difficult to watch

Lucy told the Daily Mirror: 'People are going to say it's difficult to watch. That's been a running theme throughout the whole storyline. But people have been so positive. People see how important it really is because this is actually happening.

'A lot of people are now messaging me on Instagram or coming up to me on the street and saying "this happened to me".

'It is nice and it makes me feel we've done it positively.

'There are 3,000 cases in a year in the UK of this kind of thing and they think if people spoke more about it - because people don't talk about it - it could be double that.'

Disturbing: Last week saw Nathan arrested on charges of sex exploitation after horrifying scenes saw him organise the gang assault of his much younger fiancee

But the end is in sight as it been claimed that Nathan will be imprisoned for his crimes.

The pervert  played by actor Chris Harper in the ITV soap  will be sent down to separate him from Bethany as she prepares to testify.

Last week saw Nathan arrested on charges of sexual exploitation after horrifying scenes saw him organise the gang assault of his much younger fiancee.

And Chris Harper, who plays the evil role, told the Loose Women panel that he will eventually get his comeuppance.

'Come on hes not going to get a job at Roys Rolls. No chance. Hes going to get his comeuppance. Bethanys going to go on a very brave journey and well all witness that,' he confessed.

He also revealed he happily accepted the dark storyline: 'I absolutely loved the writing. I really loved the scenes I was given and the stuff I was told was going to happen.

'Bethany will go on a very brave journey': And Chris Harper, who plays the evil role, told the Loose Women panel that he will eventually get his comeuppance

'I loved the writing': He also revealed he happily accepted the dark storyline

'As an actor you really want to get your teeth into something. It was talking to my wife during the preparation for that she said this is going to be really important.

'It is an issue that matters greatly to both of us already its a real privilege to be part of it,' he added.

Lucy will enjoy some further respite from the show when she attends the Glastonbury music festival with boyfriend Tom Leech.

She told the Daily Mirror: 'We are going to Glastonbury so this is the start of a week of partying. I'm off work and we go on Tuesday. We are going for the full thing. I've never been before and I'm camping.

'We are in a tepee thing. I've been to a lot of festivals. I can't wait to see Ed Sheeran. And I'm looking forward to Liam Gallagher and Lorde.'
Ryan Gosling, 36, is living with Eva Mendes with whom he has two children.

But the pretty brunette was nowhere to be seen when the acclaimed actor promoted his film Blade Runner 2049 during a photo call in Barcelona, Spain on Monday.

Instead he was kept company by his two blonde co-stars Ana de Armas and Sylvia Hoeks.

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Dapper: Ryan Gosling, 36, was happy to promote his new film Blade Runner 2049 during a photo call for the highly anticipated film in Barcelona, Spain on Monday

Ever the cool cat: Ryan was hugged by his co-stars Ana de Armas and Sylvia Hoeks

Getting along: It seems the co-stars all get along well as they hugged it out on the red carpet

Ever the cool cat, Ryan had the color of the jacket popped and gazed demurely at the camera during the photo op.

He paired the casual ensemble with a graphic T-shirt and distressed beige shoes.

The Canadian leading man, who stars as LAPD Officer K in the highly anticipated flick, looked happy as he posed with de Armas and Hoeks.

The trio looked happy to be promoting their film as they all hugged and laughed together on the red carper.

Photogenic: Ryan and Sylvia laughed together and appeared to have a good time

Good looing group: The trio also posed with director Denis Villeneuve

Ana looked lovely in a strapless flowered mini-dress that featured black ruffles along the top.

She wore her caramel hair in a sweet bun at the base of her neck, leaving strands loose along the front.

For her part, Sylvia opted for a nude corset-style top with black spaghetti straps.

She wore a similar-colored skirt with buttons down the side on top of the tight top to show off her stunning figure.

Missing! Co-stars Robin Wright and Harrison Ford did not attend the photo call

Director Denis Villeneuve also appeared with the group to promote the film.

Co-star Robin Wright, whose character is still unknown, and Harrison Ford appeared not to attend the photo call with the rest of the cast.

The actress did appear in the first teaser trailer for the film, which was released last week.

In the teaser, a bloodied Ryan is seen searching for Harrison Ford in the harrowing landscape of a dystopian future.

Robin is featured as well as she growls: 'That's what we do here, we keep order.'

His lady: Gosling, 36, is living with Eva Mendes with whom he has two children; seen here in 2013

The teaser opens with a mysterious figure walking alone as it cuts to Gosling holding a gun.

Afterwards, Gosling is walking in a desert landscape as he comes upon a strange towering temple.

Soon Ford approaches with a gun in hand as Gosling is seen screaming.

Denis Villeneuve, coming off Arrival, directs the screenplay by Hampton Fancher and Michael Green based on the Philip K. Dick novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?.

Mackenzie Davis, Carla Juri, Lennie James, Dave Bautista and Jared Leto co-star.

The sequel arrives in cinemas on October 6, 2017.
Bob Barker had a bad fall at his Hollywood Hills home last week.

That caused the 93-year-old The Price Is Right vet to be rushed to the hospital, according to TMZ.

After several tests it was concluded the TV icon is all right.

Close call: Bob Barker had a bad fall at his Hollywood Hills home last week. That caused the 93-year-old The Price Is Right vet to be rushed to the hospital, according to TMZ

His first hit: Here he is seen on the game show Truth Or Consequences in 1963

Barker was in the bathroom of his Hollywood Hills home when he 'slipped, fell and hit his head,' according to the site.

He called 911 and 'paramedics showed up to check him out but he didn't want them taking him to the hospital by ambulance, so his housekeeper drove him.'

Bob was treated in the emergency room.

Still looking good: The Washington native in LA in 2015

'He was pretty shaken,' it was claimed. But there was no sign of blood or bruises.

A rep for Barker told ET: 'He was in and out [of the hospital], spent maybe a couple of hours there.'

The rep went on to add: 'Hes now home and has had some minor discomfort and pain but is doing fine, as the days go on.'

In 2015 he split his head open after a fall so he may have been worried the same happened again.

In 1950, Barker moved from Washington to California in order to pursue a career in broadcasting.

Longtime host: In 1950, Barker moved from Washington to California in order to pursue a career in broadcasting. He was given his own radio show, The Bob Barker Show, which ran for the next six years. He retired in 2007; seen here in 1987

He was given his own radio show, The Bob Barker Show, which ran for the next six years.

Barker began his game show career in 1956, hosting Truth or Consequences. From there, he hosted various game shows as well as the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants from 1967 to 1987 giving him the distinction of being the longest serving host of these pageants.

Eventually, he began hosting The Price Is Right in 1972. He retired in 2007.
She's the affable Australian media personality and mum to two adult children.

And Gretel Killeen, 54, revealed on Monday's The Project that while raising her children as a single mum was 'really bloody hard', it was the happiest period of her life.

The admission came after a segment on the show that dealt with mothers who regretted having children.

Tough: Gretel Killeen, 54, revealed on Monday's The Project that while raising her children as a single mum was 'really bloody hard', it was the happiest period of her life

After the heartfelt piece wrapped up, Gretel urged children watching the segment not to think they weren't loved by their parents.

'I just want to say to any kids out there watching, while it is hard raising a lot of you, raising my children was the happiest years of my life, and I raised mine a single mum,' she said.

'It was really bloody hard but I never regretted it and I don't want children watching this thinking they aren't bringing joy.'

Difficult subject: The admission came after a segment on the show that dealt with mothers who regretted having children

Mum-of-two Renee who was interviewed for the piece, said that while she loved her children, motherhood had made her feel trapped.

'I do not resent my child, but I resent that having a child did essentially trap me,' she said.

'I'm stuck in a house in the suburbs - I've never experienced what it's like to be free.'

'It was really bloody hard but I never regretted it and I don't want children watching this thinking they aren't bringing joy,' she said

In rebuttal to Renee's comments Gretel said that it was important to to 'romanticise what we don't have.'

'I know the battles, I fought them,' she said. 'But it was worth it,' Gretel said.

'While I support all women - and there are various organisations if you're finding it very tough as a mum - while I support all of that, we have to be careful also we're not romanticising what we don't have.

'Many girls don't have children who yearn to have them.'
She's following in her father's footsteps and pursuing a career in cookery.

And Gordon Ramsay and his daughter Matilda demonstrated their unbreakable bond once again as they held hands during a shopping trip in Santa Monica, California, on Sunday.

The pair looked to have had a successful shopping trip as they both toted bags on Father's day, while sporting American-inspired T-shirts.

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Daddy's girl: Gordon and Matilda Ramsay celebrated Father's Day with a shopping trip in Santa Monica, California, on Sunday, wearing matching American-inspired T-shirts

Complementing his daughter's casual style, the 50-year-old donned a fitted blue T-shirt that was seemingly a nod to the U.S. with its national flag motif.

Gordon paired the number with a simple beige cargo shorts and comfortable trainers as he spent the day pounding the pavements with his youngest daughter, as well as a yellow 'Cal' baseball cap.

Matilda, 15, looked sporty chic in a white T-shirt, which also paid tribute to the States with the words 'New York' branded across the front.

Unbreakable bond: The duo held hands as they carried their new purchases

Black shorts and stylish grey trainers finished her relaxed ensemble.

Their shopping spree was no doubt one of a number of treats Gordon received on behalf of his brood yesterday.

Marking the special day on social media, Matilda shared a sweet photo of the Hell's Kitchen star playing with her when she was a mere tot.

She wrote alongside the snap: 'Happy fathers day to the best dad ever thank you for always being there and teaching me all your tips and tricks!!

'So glad I am able to be with you today! love you loads.'

Matilda, who is often referred to as Tilly by her famous family, landed her own show on the BBC's CBBC channel earlier this year.

Titled Matilda and the Ramsay Bunch, the show follows the adventures of the Ramsay family during the summer holidays, with the teen cooking up some exciting treats in between.
She's the businesswoman and founding director of online gift retailer, RedBalloon.

And as the premiere episode of the next season of Shark Tank airs on Tuesday, Naomi Simson spoke fondly of her fellow entrepreneurs and co-stars.

'We fight among ourselves but you can't pick on us,' the 53-year-old told The Daily Telegraph's Confidential.

'We fight among ourselves but you can't pick on us': Shark Tanks' Naomi Simson, 53, revealed to The Daily Telegraph's Confidential, that she and her fellow entrepreneurs are like 'siblings'

'The sharks are like siblings. We love each other, we respect each other and clearly we respect the work each other has done,' Naomi told the publication.

'But like siblings, we fight over our toys. We fight among ourselves but you can't pick on us,' she continued.

Naomi will return to Australian television for Tuesday night's debut episode of the 2017 season of Shark Tank.

Family: 'The sharks are like siblings. We love each other, we respect each other and clearly we respect the work each other has done,' Naomi, the founding director of RedBalloon told the publication

Business brains: The reality series, set to air on Network Ten on Tuesday, stars 'Sharks' (from left to right) Dr. Glen Richards, Naomi, Andrew Banks, Janine Allis and Steve Baxter

The reality series, aired on Network Ten, sees the 'Sharks', worth more than $1 billion collectively, use their skills to take inventions presented to them, and turn them into unique products and services.

The sharks, including Naomi, Dr. Glen Richards, Janine Allis, Andrew Banks and Steve Baxter, are not shy of debating over what they feel will generate the most revenue, and what will not.

Janine Allis, the founder of beverage retailer Boost Juice, revealed to Daily Mail Australia last year her recipe for business success.

Expert advice: Janine, the founder of beverage retailer Boost Juice, revealed to Daily Mail Australia last year her recipe for business success

The 51-year-old's $250 million company now has more than 500 stores in 15 countries.

'You definitely don't need to start young to have a successful business,' she told DMA at the time.

'I didn't have a sense at 27 years old. I was travelling between the ages of 21 to 27 and I came back to Australia with nothing but a credit card debt.

'People stress that if you don't have your life together at 22, it's all over. But there's no real time limit  it's just a matter of when you're ready.

Worldwide hit: The 51-year-old's $250 million company now has more than 500 stores in 15 countries

'Everyone is different  someone could start a family, have children down the track and the right idea doesn't even come along until later.

'Timing is everything and age is irrelevant,' Janine continued.

Season three of Shark Tank premieres on Channel Ten at 8:30pm Tuesday, June 20
His wife passed away suddenly in April 2016.

And Patton Oswalt has found love again with new girlfriend Meredith Salenger.

The comedian, 48, who made his red carpet debut with Meredith just last week, went on a Disney date with his new partner over the weekend in Anaheim, California.

Finding love again: Patton Oswalt, 48, took a trip to Disneyland with new love Meredith Salenger

The pair wore matching vintage Mickey Mouse T-shirts and posed with their arms around each other inside the park.

Patton retweeted Meredith's photo of the pair, commenting: 'We are at 'Dorky Disney T-shirt Relationship Level,' from which no on returns.'

He finished off the tweet, in all caps: 'GREAT CTHULHA WHAT HAVE WE DONE!?'

Meredith also posted a collage of photos of the two posing for various shots in the same spot.

Dorky Disney! The pair had fun at the amusement park with Patton making fun of the pair's matching T-shirts

Meredith also posted a collage of the two showing off some PDA while enjoying their day at the happiest place on earth

She captioned her shots: 'Happiest Place on Earth,' adding the hashtags #disneyland and #dreamscometrue.

Patton's new girlfriend, 47, is a Harvard-educated psychologist who also acts.

Born in Malibu, she has appeared in a number of films, including Lake Placid, The Kiss and Dream a Little Dream.

While she's not acting, she works as a mediator in Beverly Hills.

Happy together! Patton's new girlfriend, 47, is a Harvard-educated psychologist who also acts

Patton was left devastated when his wife of 11 years passed away suddenly just over a year ago, but appears to have found love again

Patton was left devastated when his wife of 11 years passed away suddenly just over a year ago.

In April 2016 Patton discovered his wife Michelle McNamara unresponsive in their bed after she died in her sleep.

In February, Michelle's cause of death was revealed in a statement released by the comedian's publicist.

'We learned today the combination of drugs in Michelle's system, along with a condition we were unaware of, proved lethal,' it read.

The 46-year-old writer had apparently been taking Adderall, Xanax and Fentanyl when she passed, unaware she had a medical condition which caused blockages in her arteries.

Patton is father to Alice, eight, with his late wife.
President Donald Trumps announcement in Miami on Friday that he will roll back the Obama administrations U.S.-Cuba trade policies has left many industry groups in a sour mood.



President Donald Trump on Friday announced he will roll back several of the Obama administrations U.S.-Cuba trade policies, a move that has left many industry groups in a sour mood.

The American Soybean Association called the decision troubling, arguing that as the farm economy continues to lag, we should be increasing our opportunities, not limiting them.

This decision has put in jeopardy the progress weve seen to date in Cuba, and stifles our future success in that market by limiting our ability to create normal business and trade relationships with importers in Cuba, just like we do with almost every other nation. These include normal banking, credit, and market development relationships, John Heisdorffer, ASAs vice president, said in a statement.

For us to continue developing and expanding upcoming markets like Cuba, we need a progressive attitude from the White House on trade, not a knee-jerk reaction to what a previous administration has done, he added.

Trumps executive order essentially effects travel from the United States to Cuba and takes aim at business transactions with Cuban government-owned entities.

The previous administrations easing of restrictions on travel and trade does not help the Cuban people  they only enrich the Cuban regime, Trump told a crowd in Miami. The profits from investment and tourism flow directly to the military. The regime takes the money and owns the industry. The outcome of the last administrations executive action has been only more repression and a move to crush the peaceful, democratic movement. Therefore, effective immediately, I am canceling the last administrations completely one-sided deal with Cuba.

U.S. industry groups said the Cuban regime in the long term will be forced to change politically, as well as economically, through continued business engagement with the Caribbean country.

We are disappointed that the administration has decided to limit Americans ability to engage in Cuba, said Richard Sawaya, USA*Engage vice president. It should be the policy of our government to facilitate their engagement in Cuba to the maximum extent possible rather than limit their freedom.

Caterpillar believes that engagement with Cuba continues to represent a strong opportunity, not just for American businesses, but to serve as a powerful tool for change. We will continue to work closely with policymakers on the best way to accomplish these goals, the earthmoving equipment manufacturer said in a statement.

On June 1, a coalition of business groups, economists and Cuba experts, known as Engage Cuba, released an economic impact analysis estimating that a reversal of Cuba policies would cost the U.S. economy $6.6 billion and affect 12,295 American jobs over the course of the first term of the Trump administration.

Since Dec. 17, 2014, the Obama administration issued six rounds of regulatory changes that eased travel and trade restrictions on Cuba.

According to Engage Cuba, U.S. travel to Cuba has skyrocketed since then. The report noted that seven U.S. airlines now fly direct to Cuba and three cruise lines have reached deals with the island nation as well. American travel giants like Airbnb, Expedia and TripAdvisor provide services in Cuba, but its still unclear how Trumps executive order will affect the progress of these businesses in Cuba.
She received 216 complaints from outraged viewers when she wore a racy Julien Macdonald gown during one of the Britain's Got Talent Semi Finals.

But Ofcom will not investigate Amanda Holden's 11,250 dress as they said the live talent show was 'appropriately scheduled'.

When the judge debuted her skimpy look on June 1, Ofcom received 203 more complaints that night than a shocking gang rape episode of Coronation Street.

Escaping punishment: Ofcom will not take action against Amanda Holden's racy Julien Macdonald dress, which she wore on one of the Britain's Got Talent Semi Finals

A spokesman for the regulator said: 'We carefully assessed complaints that dresses worn by judges were inappropriate for a pre-watershed audience.

'We recognise that the dresses had potential to offend some viewers during what is a family show.

'However, while some outfits were revealing, we considered it was appropriately scheduled and would not have exceeded most viewers' expectations.'

Holden, whose eyebrow-raising choices also included a see-through skirt with a leotard underneath, previously joked that she had not 'done my job' unless people complain about her skimpy wardrobe.

Attracting complaints: A spokesman said: 'While some outfits were revealing, we considered it was appropriately scheduled and would not have exceeded most viewers' expectations'

Ofcom also dismissed 27 complaints over fellow judge David Walliams, 45, dropping his trousers in front of Simon Cowell, 57.

A spokesman said: 'We assessed some complaints that David Walliams' behaviour was unsuitable for a pre-watershed audience.

'However, while his actions could be seen as offensive to some, we found they were justified by the light-hearted, comedic context.'

All eyes on her: Holden's controversial gown attracted 216 complaints, 203 more than a gang rape episode of Coronation Street

The ITV series culminated with pianist Tokio Myers being crowned the champion, winning the opportunity to perform at The Royal Variety Performance and a 250,000 prize.

The final notched up 8.2 million viewers and a peak of 10.2 million.

Holden wore the controversial dress, the SS16 Look 37, after admitting days earlier that she was seeking complaints once again this year, as she joked: 'Will people be complaining to Ofcom? I hope so, I really do.'

Shock: The gown appeared to have sparked significantly more outrage than Coronation Street's shocking gang rape episode centred around character Bethany Platt, aired at 9pm yesterday, which received a mere 13 complaints.

Last year's Britain's Got Talent final saw 90 complaints regarding Alesha Dixon and Holden's dress choices sent to Ofcom  and 200 sent to ITV, although the regulator deemed them both 'suitable' for the show that year.

If ITV was found to have breached the broadcasting code last night, Ofcom would write to them with guidance on their programming decisions  while a sanction such as a fine would only apply in extreme cases, unlike this one.

On Coronation Street, some fans were left feeling 'physically sick' by the latest scenes from the harrowing grooming storyline involving 16-year-old Bethany, played by Lucy Fallon.

Walliams backed Holden today. In a post, retweeted by Holden, he said: 'What's the big deal with Amanda Holden's dress on BGT? Simon Cowell has been wearing low-cut tops that show off his moobs for years'

She has been manipulated by evil older boyfriend Nathan Curtis, played by Christopher Harper, who runs a sordid sex ring. And last night viewers were horrified as they witnessed the build up to the teenager being gang raped.

In the episode, viewers witnessed physical abuse, as Nathan burned Lucy with a cigarette in one particularly shocking scene. And during a party he threw, she was seen sitting on a bed as a group of men surrounded her.

Holden, who appears with judges Dixon, Simon Cowell, and David Walliams is currently in her tenth year on the hit show Britain's Got Talent - and has been known to take plenty of risks when it comes to her dress choices.

The first hit... In 2015, her flowing princess gown was hit with 90 complaints alongside Alesha's sexy look

But Walliams backed Holden today. In a post, retweeted by Holden, he said: 'What's the big deal with Amanda Holden's dress on BGT? Simon Cowell has been wearing low-cut tops that show off his moobs for years.'

As she first emerged onto the stage last night, host Ant McPartlin was taken aback by the gown, which featured a deeply plunging neckline atop a gaping open back and a formfitting body dropping to the floor in length.

Holding onto Cowell's hand as she descended the stairs, the mother-of-two also came dangerously close to a wardrobe malfunction as she teetered along in her heels - yet again making a risque statement.

Last year: 2016 saw her sheer gown scoop 19 complaints - again with a racy touch

In disbelief, McPartlin said: 'Look at what Amanda's wearing... what Amanda isn't wearing!' Walliams also made a dig, telling a female choir: 'You're really classy, none of you are wearing a really inappropriate low-cut top!'

After two concurrent years of receiving complaints, Holden appeared determined to stun once more last night as viewers were left stunned by her wardrobe choices during what is seen as a 'family show'.

In 2015, she wore a princess-style gown once again with a deeply plunging neckline, while last year she opted for an entirely sheer number with a key-hole neckline under which she went braless again.

Taking to Twitter during the show yesterday, viewers were shocked by the racy ensemble, with one posting: 'Does Amanda Holden know this is a family show and doesn't need to dress like a stripper #BGT.'

Another said she would 'be down to mini nipple tassels by the final - put 'em away love, it's a family show', while one social media user asked: 'Is it Amanda's birthday? She's dressed in that festive suit'

Another said: 'I think David speaks on behalf of all of us about Amanda's dress.' And one added: 'Wow, wonder if Amanda will be down to her undies by the final?! #nexttonothing #familyshow #inappropriate.'

'Wonder if she'll be down to her undies': Viewers flocked to social media to comment on Amanda's daring dress - which many labelled 'inappropriate'

Priorities: Holden didn't seem too bothered about a wardrobe malfunction on her top half as she raised her dress to avoid a fall

Perfection: The blonde beauty also sported an immaculate coat of glamorous make-up for the event

Risque: Floor length in design, the backless gown cinched in at her impeccably tiny waist and highlighted the contours of her fabulous frame as she headed to the judges table

Dixon showed off her tanned and toned legs in a short white dress with fringed detailing. Adding to the glamour, the 38-year-old Mis-Teeq star wore her glossy raven locks slicked back and donned vibrant scarlet lipstick.

She finished off the look with a pair of silver chandelier earrings that tied together the elements of her stylish ensemble.

Holden's racy ensemble came after she joked she is 'hoping' to spark complaints from viewers with the racy wardrobe she has lined up for Britain's Got Talent's live shows.

Careful! Holding onto Simon Cowell's hand as she descended the stairs, the mother-of-two also came dangerously close to a nip slip as she teetered along in her heels

'Kids watching': The viewer reaction over her dress continued to pour in, with many citing the family element of the show

Sexy: The rest of the daring number boasted semi-sheer panelling which showed off her sensational figure

Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, she quipped: 'I haven't done my job if they aren't!'

Addressing her outfit choices for the live shows, Amanda teased that she will be continuing her love of racy ensembles, as they will be 'very flattering' and 'very feminine'.

She also revealed that she will be the first person to don the glamorous frocks, as she purposely leaves all planning when it comes to her wardrobe until the very last minute, to ensure they have never been worn before.

Bold fashionista: Addressing her outfit choices for the live shows that are set to air on ITV as of Monday night, Amanda teased that she will be continuing her love of racy ensembles, as they will be 'very flattering' and 'very feminine'

The talent judge added: 'I like to know no one six foot tall and skinny has worn it on a red carpet before.'

In 2015, Amanda and Alesha garnered 90 complaints to the broadcasting watchdog after both sporting perilously plunging gowns which were slammed for the appearance on a family show.

A year later their outfits met 19 complaints, yet Ofcom revealed the dresses would not be investigated as they 'did not raise issues under rules on nudity'.
She's in the city promoting her new film The Beguiled.

And Kirsten Dunst opted for a very colorful number as she arrived at the NBC studios on Monday morning.

The actress, 35, paired a rusty orange skirt with a deep v-neck button-up blouse that featured multi-colored dots along both sides.

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Classic and colorful: Kirsten Dunst opted for a very colorful number as she arrived at the NBC studios on Monday morning in NYC

The black top showed off the actresses playful side as she opted for even brighter red heels to complete the colorful look.

The blonde beauty wore her light hair down around her shoulders and swept it into a romantic side part for the appearance.

She chose to keep on her dark black sunglasses as she entered the building.

Looking ever so stunning, she opted for a light dusting of makeup on her naturally pretty complexion and completed the look with a pop of bright color on her lips.

Pretty! The blonde beauty wore her light hair down around her shoulders and swept it into a romantic side part for the appearance

Happily engaged: Her engagement ring was on full display as she made her way down the New York City sidewalks carrying a black purse with a gold chain strap

Her engagement ring was on full display as she made her way down the New York City sidewalks carrying a black purse with a gold chain strap.

Kirsten's fiance is fellow actor Jesse Plemons, who is in the city with her as she promotes her latest film.

The duo were seen out Sunday night looking casual as they made their way to their hotel.

Plunging neckline: The blouse featured a deep v-neck that showed off a hint of cleavage

The 35-year-old actress sat down with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show Friday where she revealed the proposal was very low key.

'I was a little sick when [he proposed], which was funny,' Kirsten told the host.

'But that's good. Sickness and in health, you know I was in sweats.'

Kirsten said she became good friends with Jesse when working on Fargo season two but didn't date until a year later.

Supportive: Kirsten and fiance Jesse Plemons are in the city together as the actress promotes her new film. The duo were seen out Sunday night looking casual as they made their way to their hotel

The couple play married high school sweethearts Peggy and local butcher Ed in the FX show.

'I'll name my kid 'Fargo season two'!' the actress joked with Fallon.

Kirsten and Jesse kept their romance under wraps until they were spotted kissing in May 2016.

Their engagement was confirmed through sources in January.

Jesse is currently playing the role of supportive spouse as Kirsten continues to promote her film.

Outfit change: Kirsten later emerged in high rise jeans and a pretty white blouse as she made her way out of her hotel

The actress later changed into a different outfit as she continued her string of media appearances.

She emerged in button-up high rise jeans and a pretty white blouse as she left her hotel.

The actress wore her hair in the same style as earlier in the day and paired the slightly flared jeans with strappy black sandals.

Same sunglasses: She opted to keep on the same sunglasses from her earlier appearance

Directed by Sofia Coppola, The Beguiled is based on the novel by Thomas Cullinan.

The film takes place at an all-girls school in Virginia during the American Civil War.

The women at the school take in a wounded Union soldier, who ultimately turns their world upside down with rising sexual tensions and betrayals.

The Beguiled co-stars Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman and Colin Farrell and hits theaters on June 30.
Miles Teller was arrested early on Sunday morning in San Diego.

Police noticed he was nearly falling down drunk when spending time with male friends in the Southern California city, according to TMZ.

The Divergent actor, 30, was taken to jail and kept for four hours after refusing to go to a detox program to sleep off the alcohol.

Bad times: Miles Teller was arrested early on Sunday morning in San Diego. Police noticed he was nearly falling down drunk when spending time with male friends in the Southern California city, according to TMZ; seen in February

The Fantastic Four actor was released without bail.

The site said that the Pennsylvania native was 'literally falling down drunk and refusing to cooperate with cops.'

He was 'partying with a group of guys when an officer noticed the actor was having trouble standing on the sidewalk.'

Police questioned the War Dogs star and he 'became uncooperative,' it was claimed by the source.

Big time: The 30-year-old is seen with Ciaran Hinds and Aaron Eckhart in 2016's Bleed For This

Another hit: Also in 2016, Teller was in War Dogs with Jonah Hill

Miles had trouble standing in one spot and almost fell into traffic at one point, so police handcuffed him. The cops asked if he wanted to enter a detox program to sleep it off and he said no, TMZ claimed.

The site said the police took him to the program, which is run by volunteers, anyhow and when Teller did not cooperate, he was kicked out.

There was no where else for him to go but the police station, the source maintained.

Crash: In December 2016, Teller and model Keleigh Sperry - who he has been with since 2013 - were involved in a car accident

Miles was arrested and booked for being drunk in public, which is a misdemeanor. They also took a mug shot of the celebrity.

On Monday afternoon he tried to deny his arrest in a tweet, saying: 'Went down to SD to see my buddy before he deployed. I wasn't arrested I was detained bc there was no evidence to charge me with a crime.'

He added in a separate tweet: 'Don't believe everything you read, especially from a third party entertainment news source trying to get clicks. Appreciate the concern.'

His side of the story: Teller blasted out these tweets on Monday, denying he was charged, something the San Diego Police disagree with

In 2007, Miles was a passenger in a car that lost control at 80 mph and flipped eight times, he was ejected out the window. He has multiple visible scars on his face from the accident.

He went on two years later to graduate from NYU's Tisch School Of The Arts.

Teller made his debut in 2010's Rabbit Hole after Nicole Kidman handpicked him for the role.

Big time: He found success when he portrayed Peter Hayes in the commercial hit Divergent in 2014 followed by sequels Insurgent (2015) and Allegiant (2016), pictured

He found success when he portrayed Peter Hayes in the commercially successful Divergent in 2014 followed by the film's sequels Insurgent (2015) and Allegiant (2016).

He also starred as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in the 2015 film Fantastic Four with Kate Mara.

The actor has been in a relationship with 24-year-old model Keleigh Sperry since 2013.

Another hit: He also starred as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic in the 2015 film Fantastic Four with Kate Mara

In December 2016, the couple were involved in a car accident. After being cut off by an Uber driver, Teller's car rolled onto its side. Neither Teller nor Sperry were injured, but a passenger in the Uber car was taken to the hospital.

In February he was seen with Sperry at the Vanity Fair Oscar party. The last time they were spotted together was in April in Hawaii.

Meanwhile, Teller will next be seen on the big screen in war film Thank You For Your Service in October.

Pamper session: Teller has been in a relationship with model Keleigh Sperry, seen going to a nail salon in Los Angeles on Monday, since 2013
She's known for her hit songs.

But Demi Lovato proved she was multi-talented as she attended The Changing Face of Original Content Seminar at the Cannes Lions Festival 2017.

The 24-year-old Cool For The Summer hitmaker worked a business-chic look as she attended the seminar to hold a speech and accept an award.

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Multi-talented: Demi Lovato proved she was multi-talented as she attended The Changing Face of Original Content Seminar at the Cannes Lions Festival 2017

Wearing an asymmetric frilly button-up blouse, she drew attention to her slender midriff cinched in by a pair of fitted trousers.

Accentuating her stature she teamed the ensemble with a pair of dainty sandals, showing off her delicate ankle tattoos.

Wearing her brunette tresses in loose waves, she went for minimal make-up showing off her natural beauty.

Role model: The 24-year-old Cool For The Summer hitmaker worked a business-chic look as she attended the seminar to hold a speech and accept an award

Last week, Demi shocked her fans when she shared a photo of herself with ex-boyfriend Wilmer Valderrama.

The former couple were in a serious, long-term relationship, having dated for six-and-a-half years before they announced their split last June.

In the Instagram stories post, Wilmer, 37, wrapped his arm around his former love as the two shared smiles.

'Best of friends no matter what,' she said.

Chic: Wearing an asymmetric frilly button-up blouse, she drew attention to her slender midriff cinched in by a pair of fitted trousers

Monochrome: Accentuating her stature she teamed the ensemble with a pair of dainty sandals, showing off her delicate ankle tattoos

Following their break-up last summer, Demi moved on with MMA fighter Guilherme 'Bomba' Vasconcelos.

The two were linked last July, before the split after a few weeks.

Demi began dating ex-UFC middleweight champ Luke Rockhold later that summer.

But over the New Year, Demi and Guilherme gave their relationship another shot, before splitting this past May.

What a tease! Dita Von Teese also made an appearance, bringing her famous glamour to the event

Dita Von Teese, 44, also made an appearance, bringing her famous glamour to the event.

The burlesque dancer was there to hold a speech at the Melody, Harmony and Metadata: Understanding People Through Music Talk

Wearing her raven hair in vintage Hollywood glamour waves, the ex-wife of Marilyn Manson rocked her trademark red lipstick and showed off her porcelain skin.

Showcasing her famous hourglass curves in a plunging strapless dress embroidered with red poppies, she put on a quite a display.

Old school glamour: Wearing her raven hair in vintage Hollywood glamour waves, the ex-wife of Marilyn Manson rocked her trademark red lipstick and showed off her porcelain skin

Curves for days! Showcasing her famous hourglass curves in a plunging strapless dress embroidered with red poppies, she put on a quite a display

Von Teese recently spoke about how she loves to incorporate her burlesque dancing into everyday life.

'I love to put on a great playlist and dance around', Von Teese told the Washington Post.

She spoke about the importance of accessories whilst dancing too: 'What Ive always loved about burlesque is you can enhance what youve got and hide what you want to hide.'

'Stockings and garter belts, bras, stockings, corsets: All these sexy things are covering a lot,' she continued.

Von Teese was quick to say that beauty is not limited to age: 'I think its important we see beauty at all ages and all walks of life and not just pretty little pinup girls who are 25.

'Theres really something to be said for cultivating who you are,' she concluded.

Loves her job: Von Teese recently spoke about how she loves to incorporate her burlesque dancing into everyday life
He's a doting dad of two.

And Mario Lopez had some fun in the sun as he spent Father's Day on the beach in Mexico with his wife Courtney and their children, daughter Gia, six, and son Dominic, three.

The shirtless 43-year-old enjoyed a walk on the surf with his entire family at Girls Gone Wild founder Joe Francis' luxury estate, Casa Aramara, in Punta Mita.

Fun in the sun! Mario Lopez had some fun in the sun as he spent Father's Day on the beach with his entire family in Punta Mita, Mexico

Mario turned heads in his white board shorts, which showed of his incredibly sculpted shape.

The Extra host was clearly having the time of his life, as he was spotted jogging towards the surf with a broad smile on his face.

But it wasn't just Mario and his family that were on the beach that day either.

The family of four also spent time with their hosts, Joe, his long-term girlfriend Abbey Wilson, and their two-year-old twin daughters, Athena and Alexandria.

Dropping jaws: Mario turned heads in his white board shorts, which showed of his incredibly sculpted shape

Aww: And the former Saved By The Bell star couldn't help but give one of Joe's daughters a kiss on the cheek as he lifted her up into the air as well

Say cheese! Mario took photos of the happy couple standing on the beach with their precious daughters in their arms

Mario took photos of the happy couple standing on the beach with their precious daughters in their arms.

And the former Saved By The Bell star couldn't help but give one of Joe's daughters a kiss on the cheek as he lifted her up into the air as well.

Wading out into the waves, Mario and Joe couldn't stop smiling as they bonded with a handshake.

Bromance! The guys grinned as they bonded out in the water

His other half: Francis pulled his girlfriend in for a sweet kiss

Mario has been documenting his family vacation to paradise on social media.

The actor shared a beautiful snap of his poolside, beachfront digs along with the caption: 'Monday morning at Casa Aramara...'

On Sunday, Mario thanked his host for his hospitality.

'Monday morning at Casa Aramara...': The actor shared a beautiful snap of his poolside, beachfront digs

They've come a long way: On Sunday, Mario thanked his host for his hospitality

'Went from poppin bottles to baby bottles... Gracias por todo amigo!' Mario said in a snap of him and Joe.

Joe shared a shirtless snap of himself and his 'boy' Mario in honor of Father's Day.

'HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO MY BOY @mariolopezextra AND ALL OF THE GREAT FATHERS,' he captioned the snap.
She's appeared on the covers of Italian Vogue, Elle and Harper's BAZAAR.

And model Rachel Hunter took a break from her glamorous lifestyle to enjoy the great outdoors in her native New Zealand.

The 47-year-old went makeup-free on Monday as she shared an Instagram video from her glamping holiday.

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Makeup-free and fabulous! A bare-faced Rachel Hunter took to Instagram on Monday to share a video of herself surrounded by nature during a glamping trip to New Zealand

Rachel, who was once married to Rod Stewart, showed off her natural beauty as she posed against a picturesque backdrop.

'We're at Bridal Falls but my favourite part of Bridal Falls so far is not this,' she said in the video as she gestured towards the waterfall behind her. 'It's this one pigeon.'

Pointing towards a majestic bird perched high in a tree, she continued: 'It's amazing! I want to be that pigeon.'

'I want to be that pigeon': The model, 47, pointed out a majestic bird in her holiday video

The bare-faced beauty glowed as she talked about the bird, which she identified as a kereru in the Instagram caption.

Dressed in a grey T-shirt and with a mix of necklaces hanging from her neck, Rachel kept it casual for her relaxed holiday.

She styled her dyed blonde hair loosely, as her natural brown shade appeared at the roots.

Roughing it: Rachel, who was once married to British rocker Rod Stewart, has already posted several photos from her fun-filled glamping trip to Raglan, New Zealand

The nature enthusiast has already posted several photos from her fun-filled glamping trip to Raglan, New Zealand.

On Sunday, Rachel shared a picture of herself kicking back in a hammock.

She appears to be making the most of her luxurious surroundings while staying in a Mongolian-style yurt.

Just hanging! On Sunday, Rachel shared a picture of herself kicking back in a hammock
She recently revealed she loves to incorporate her burlesque dancing into her everyday life.

And Dita Von Teese certainly brought the glamour as she hosted the Melody, Harmony and Metadata: Understanding People Through Music Talk at the Cannes Lions Festival 2017 on Monday.

The 44-year-old dancer flaunted her flawless decolletage as she slipped her famous hourglass curves in a plunging strapless dress embroidered with red poppies.

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All eyes on her: Dita Von Teese, 44, certainly brought the glamour as she hosted the Melody, Harmony and Metadata: Understanding People Through Music Talk at the Cannes Lions Festival 2017 on Monday

Dita oozed glamour and elegance in the flirty ensemble as she took centre stage.

The daringly low-cut number served to accentuate her busty cleavage before cinching in her tiny waist.

The midi-length garment's saucy split allowed the Stateside beauty to showcase her toned legs - which were boosted in a pair of towering red strappy heels.

Wearing her raven hair in vintage Hollywood glamour waves, the ex-wife of Marilyn Manson rocked her trademark red lipstick and showed off her porcelain skin.

Glamorous: The burlesque dancer flaunted her flawless decolletage as she slipped her famous hourglass curves in a plunging strapless dress embroidered with red poppies

She's got front: The daringly low-cut number served to accentuate her busty cleavage before cinching in her tiny waist

Enviable figure: The midi-length garment's saucy split allowed the Stateside beauty to showcase her toned legs - which were boosted in a pair of towering red strappy heels

Von Teese recently spoke about how she loves to incorporate her burlesque dancing into everyday life.

'I love to put on a great playlist and dance around', Von Teese told the Washington Post.

She spoke about the importance of accessories whilst dancing too: 'What Ive always loved about burlesque is you can enhance what youve got and hide what you want to hide.'

Stunning: Wearing her raven hair in vintage Hollywood glamour waves, the ex-wife of Marilyn Manson rocked her trademark red lipstick and showed off her porcelain skin

'I love to put on a great playlist and dance around': Von Teese recently spoke about how she loves to incorporate her burlesque dancing into everyday life

'You can enhance what you want': She spoke about the importance of accessories whilst dancing too

'Stockings and garter belts, bras, stockings, corsets: All these sexy things are covering a lot,' she continued.

Von Teese was quick to say that beauty is not limited to age: 'I think its important we see beauty at all ages and all walks of life and not just pretty little pinup girls who are 25.

'Theres really something to be said for cultivating who you are,' she concluded.
Water gushed into the destroyer after the accident left a large tear in its side

The US Navy on Monday identified seven sailors killed when their destroyer collided with a container ship off Japan, smashing the side of the ship and flooding berths where the crew were sleeping.

The sailors, aged between 19 and 37, were reported missing after Saturday's predawn collision which triggered a major US-Japanese search operation.

Their bodies were found a day later when the ship returned to port and divers scoured damaged areas of the 154-metre (500-foot) Fitzgerald, which was commissioned in 1995 and deployed in the Iraq war in 2003.

"The remains of seven sailors previously reported missing were located in flooded berthing compartments, after divers gained access to the spaces," the Navy said Monday.

The collision happened 56 nautical miles (104 kilometres) southwest of Yokosuka, where the Fitzgerald is based, in a busy shipping channel that is a gateway to major container ports in Tokyo and nearby Yokohama.

Photos released by the US Navy's 7th Fleet show four of the seven sailors killed in a collision off Japan's coast

There have been several collisions involving large vessels in the area over the past five years and attention is now turning to the investigation into what caused the deadly accident.

The container ship, the 222-metre Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal, made a 180 degree turn shortly before the accident, according to data from the Marine Traffic website. It was not immediately clear what prompted the sharp turn.

The huge commercial vessel came into port with large scrapes on its bow, but none of its 20 crew were injured.

- Right of way? -

Japan's coastguard is conducting a probe, including interviewing the Japanese-owned container ship's Filipino crew, although the US has primary jurisdiction in probing accidents involving military personnel.

Citing local investigators, Japan's top-selling Yomiuri newspaper said Monday that the damage on both ships suggests they were travelling in the same direction when the crash occurred.

The crew were reported missing after a predawn collision, triggering a major US-Japanese search operation, with divers scouring damaged areas of the destroyer

Under maritime law, the container ship had an obligation to avoid a collision if it was trying to overtake the destroyer from behind.

But if the container vessel was approaching from the US ship's right side, the destroyer had the obligation to give it the right of way, a Japanese coastguard spokesman said.

"Generally speaking, if a ship sees another vessel on its right hand side it has the obligation to avoid" a collision, he added.

The navy and coastguard are conducting separate investigations, but the Japanese side will ask for US cooperation in its inquiries, a spokesman for Japan's transport safety board told AFP.

On Sunday, US 7th Fleet commander Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin said the crew would have had little chance of escaping the "tremendous" amount of water that gushed into the ship after the accident tore open its side.

Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin, Commander of the US 7th Fleet, said the crew would have had little chance of escaping

"It was 2:20 in the morning. A significant part of the crew was sleeping," he told reporters. "There wasn't a lot of time in spaces that were open to the sea."

"So, it was traumatic. As to how much warning they had -- I don't know."

Several other US crew members were injured in the accident and had to be evacuated by air to hospital, including the vessel's commanding officer Bryce Benson.
A garbage collector leads a donkey through the old part of Algiers, known as the Kasbah, on May 22, 2017 as they collect the rubbish in the alleyways of this medina built during the 10th century under Zirid rule

It's a rubbish job, but someone has to do it. Or some animal: in the alleyways of Algiers' famed Kasbah, donkeys shift tonnes of trash every day.

Some streets in the Kasbah are so narrow that single file is necessary. Others are wider but are steep and stepped, ruling out more usual rubbish collection methods.

Hence the resort to animal power to keep this World Heritage Site clean.

UNESCO calls the Algerian capital's Kasbah "an outstanding example of a historic Maghreb city", and says it greatly influenced town-planning in the western Mediterranean and sub-Saharan Africa.

But without its donkeys loaded with huge panniers and accompanied by their green-uniformed handlers, the Kasbah would sink under the weight of its own refuse.

At dawn, the dozen garbage collectors of the Kasbah "saddle up" their charges with "chouaris", home-made baskets made of rushes, and climb the long stairs to Bab J'did, one of the gates of the old city.

A garbage collector leads donkeys through the old part of Algiers, known as the Kasbah, on May 22, 2017 as they collect the rubbish in the alleyways of this medina built during the 10th century under Zirid rule

There the teams split up and go their separate routes. The donkeys know their rounds off by heart.

Man and beast negotiate the vertiginous streets of this medina built during the 10th century under Zirid rule, a dynasty of Berber origin that reigned over most of the Maghreb.

Sprawling over some 105 hectares (260 acres), the Kasbah is a mass muddle of buildings constructed on a steep uneven slope 118 metres (nearly 400 feet) in height.

Some houses are so old and dilapidated that they would collapse if not propped up by wooden or metal beams.

- Scavenging alley cats -

The collectors gather the rubbish in bags or by hand, and once a "chouari" is full, the donkey goes all the way back to the top where its load is transferred to trucks.

Each donkey load weighs up to 50 kilos, and more than two tonnes of trash are collected every day.

Without its donkeys loaded with huge panniers and accompanied by their green-uniformed handlers, Algiers' famed Kasbah would sink under the weight of its own refuse

Come rain, shine or searing summer heat, the Kasbah Horse Unit as it is officially known works a seven-day week.

This method of garbage gathering dates back to the arrival in Algiers of the Ottomans in the 16th century.

Despite constant collections, the waste quickly piles up again.

"We're doing about 10 rounds" a day, sighed weather-beaten 57-year-old Amer Moussa who said he was looking forward to retirement.

If the task wasn't difficult enough already, Moussa said he was tired of rubbish being thrown anywhere, and rubble or old furniture being chucked away with household waste.

Vacant lots where homes once stood have become dumping grounds where scavenging alley cats root through rubbish.

Kadour Hanafi, now an executive with Netcom which handles garbage collection in the city, is himself a former rubbish collector in the Kasbah.

The sprawing Kasbah in Algiers is a mass of buildings constructed on a steep uneven slope and some houses are so old and dilapidated that they would collapse if not propped up by wooden or metal beams

He said some Kasbadjis, as the residents are known, look upon them with contempt.

Bad jokes as they pass are common: "Look, there's a donkey -- and there's a donkey with him."

Abdellah Khenfoussi, a Netcom official who grew up in the Kasbah and still lives there, fondly remembers a time when residents would wash down the paved streets every morning.

- Historic district -

Fatma, wearing the long white "haik" dress of Algerian women, rails against the sordid conditions into which the area has sunk.

"It used to be well-kept," the 74-year-old said of the Kasbah, which in 1957 was the heart of the Battle of Algiers during the 1954-1962 war of independence against France.

After climbing and descending for seven or eight hours, which is exhausting for both collector and donkey, the dawn patrol returns to the stables, then the late shift takes over

"Everyone knew everyone else and we all helped clean up. But now most of the original residents have left, and new arrivals have no idea of the Kasbah's (historic) value," Fatma said.

After climbing and descending for seven or eight hours, which is exhausting for both collector and donkey, the dawn patrol returns to the stables.

The late shift then takes over. Throughout the day, donkeys and green boiler-suited collectors are a regular sight in the historic district.

There are 52 donkeys in the Kasbah Horse Unit, acquired in the same manner as official vehicles -- by public tender, said Netcom communications head Nassima Yakoubi.

Each animal must be in good physical shape, be upwards of 1.5 metres (five feet) in height and weigh more than 100 kilos (220 pounds).

They join the unit aged between four and eight, and have a working life of around 20 years.

You might expect that the animals then enjoy a well-earned retirement, maybe at the zoo.

That is indeed their destination, but not as residents: to the anguish of their former companions the rubbish collectors, the worn out donkeys of the Algiers Kasbah become lunch for lions.
Israeli-American novelist Ayelet Waldman (R) and her spouse American novelist Michael Chabon pose for a picture in Jerusalem on June 18, 2017

A group of award-winning authors on Sunday launched a book highlighting Israel's 50-year occupation of the Palestinian territories, raising money for an NGO hated by the Israeli government.

Featuring chapters penned by more than two dozen writers including Dave Eggers, Colm Toibin and Geraldine Brooks, "Kingdom of Olives and Ash" was edited by American Jewish husband and wife duo Michael Chabon and Ayelet Waldman.

Chabon, winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for his novel "The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay", said the aim was to start a conversation about the impact of the occupation on both Israelis and Palestinians.

"We felt like we had to find some way of drawing people's attention, at least some people's attention, to this," he told AFP ahead of the launch in Jerusalem Sunday evening.

By using famous authors, including the winners of three Pulitzers and a Nobel, they were aiming to "sort of trick" people "into paying attention to the occupation by baiting the trap, in a way, with the work of a really amazing writer".

Proceeds from the book will go to Breaking the Silence, an NGO that documents alleged abuses by Israeli forces in the occupied Palestinian territories and publishes testimonies of soldiers, much to the chagrin of Israeli officials.

In 2016 the then defence minister accused the NGO of treason and the current government -- the most right-wing in Israel's history -- has sought to curtail their work and ban them from speaking in schools.

The book, which is published in English, French, Arabic, Hebrew, Spanish and Italian, takes the form of individual chapters by the authors, most of which centre around their trips to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories in the past two years.

Chabon's chapter touches heavily on the "arbitrary" nature of the occupation in the West Bank, with Palestinians often caught up in bureaucracy and subject to the whims of individual soldiers and commanders.

- 'Our brick' -

The purpose, he said, was "proving to the people you are conquering that they have absolutely no control over their fate or their destiny".

American novelist Michael Chabon, winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize, said the aim of the book was to start a conversation about the impact of the occupation on both Israelis and Palestinians

Author Dave Eggers, who visited Gaza in his chapter, details life in the Palestinian enclave and how residents try to survive in the territory often labelled the world's largest prison.

Two million Palestinians live in the Gaza Strip, coralled by a decade-long Israeli blockade, with Egypt also sealing its border.

Israel says the occupation is necessary to protect its citizens, with Palestinians often carrying out attacks against Israelis in the West Bank and elsewhere.

Eggers details peoples' frustrations with their lives, including with the Islamists Hamas who run the strip and restrict cultural freedoms.

Waldman, who was born in Jerusalem and holds Israeli citizenship, said she had to try to tackle the occupation because it was done in her name as a Jew.

"The occupation is an edifice and those of us who care have to do what we can to chip away at it. This book -- this is our brick that we are pulling out of the edifice of the occupation.

"Eventually enough bricks will be gone and it will fall."

Israel values its relationship with the diaspora highly, highlighting itself as the home for all Jews from across the globe.

Both Waldman and Chabon said there was a growing gap between young American progressive Jews and Israel.

Seventy-one percent of US Jews voted for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election compared with just 24 percent for Donald Trump -- despite the latter promising to be the most pro-Israel president ever.

Israeli-American novelist Ayelet Waldman said there was a growing gap between young American progressive Jews and Israel

"Jews of my parents' generation, even of my generation, had a much easier time being progressive on all issues except Israel," said Waldman.

"Jews of my children's generation, Jews in their 40s, 30s, 20s, those Jews are not willing to make an exception for Israel in their world view.

"They are not willing to engage in the same kind of hypocrisy that my generation and generations before us have."
A handout picture provided by Iran's state TV IRIB and released on June 18, 2017 shows Iran's Revolutionary Guards launching a missile from an undisclosed location in western Iran, towards Islamic State group bases in Syria

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Monday missiles it fired into Syria had successfully hit Islamic State group targets in retaliation for Tehran attacks claimed by the jihadists earlier this month.

"Based on credible information, the missile operation against Daesh has been successful," Revolutionary Guards spokesman General Ramezan Sharif said on the elite force's Sepahnews website, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

The Guards fired six missiles from the west of Iran across the border and into Syria's mostly IS-held Deir Ezzor province, targeting an IS command base, they said earlier.

Sunday's strike came after twin attacks in Tehran on June 7 killed 17 people, in the first attacks in Iran claimed by IS.

State television said the attack killed an IS commander, a Saudi national named Saad al-Hosseini, known as Abu Saad.

The missile attack was the first by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic has reported.

"Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defence and advances common global fight to eradicate ISIS and extremist terror," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a tweet, using another acronym for IS.

General Ahmad Reza Pourdastan, the deputy commander of the armed forces, said: "Our defence is no longer limited to Iran's territorial borders."

"Our battlefield will be wherever there is a threat," local media quoted him as saying.

General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, who heads the Revolutionary Guards' aerospace wing, earlier told state television: "The missiles were fired from Iran and they passed over Iraq and landed in Syria."

"Drones flying from near Damascus to Deir Ezzor transmitted (footage of) missiles hitting their targets," he said.

"Firing these missiles from 600 or 700 kilometres (370 or 430 miles) away onto a small building... demonstrates Iran's capacity and intelligence capabilities" against jihadist groups, he said.

The missile strike came hours after supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a statement vowed Iran would "slap its enemies" in honour of the families of victims, including those killed in Syria and Iraq.

Iranian media reported some of the mid-range missiles fired into Syria were of the Zolfaghar type, a precision-guided missile with a range of about 750 kilometres.

Iran's homegrown missiles, a serious point of contention with Washington and Tel Aviv, can reach up to 2,000 kilometres.
Jet Airways said it was the first time a baby had been born on one of its flights and that it had given him free travel for life on the airline

An Indian woman gave birth to a baby boy on an international commercial flight as it flew at 35,000 feet, the airline said on Monday.

The unnamed woman, in her 20s, went into premature labour on Sunday's Jet Airways flight between Damman in Saudi Arabia and Kochi in the southern Indian state of Kerala.

"The guest delivered a baby boy at 35,000 feet," Jet Airways said in a statement, adding that a paramedic on board and airline staff helped with the delivery.

The Boeing 737 flight, which had 162 passengers on board, was diverted to Mumbai where the woman and her newborn were rushed to a hospital near the airport.

An official at Mumbai's Holy Spirit hospital told AFP on Monday that both the mother and baby boy were doing well.

The woman was believed to have been around 32 weeks pregnant when she gave birth.

Jet Airways said it was the first time a baby had been born on one of its flights and that it had given him free travel for life on the airline.

In August last year a woman gave birth on a flight from the United Arab Emirates to the Philippines.

The plane made an emergency landing in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad so the mother and newborn could receive medical attention before continuing their journey to Manila.
Bali authorities are launching increased checks at the airport, port and bus terminals to apprehend the prisoners

Four foreign prisoners have tunnelled out of jail on Indonesia's tourist island of Bali, including an Australian man who was going to be freed within months, police said Monday.

The escape is the latest in a spate of audacious prison breaks in country, where last week dozens of inmates swam out of a facility on another island during a flood.

An Australian, Bulgarian, Indian and Malaysian are missing from the Bali jail, police said, adding they are believed to have fled when Muslim prisoners were performing the dawn prayer.

"It seems that they have escaped through a 50 x 75cm (20 x 30 inch) hole at the prison's outer wall which have led to their escape," Bali police spokesman Hengky Widjaja told AFP.

Increased checks in the airport, port and bus terminals are being launched to apprehend the prisoners, who include Australian Shaun Edward Davidson.

The 33-year-old, who was serving a one year jail term for immigration offences, fled the prison even though he was due to be released in under three months, police said.

He was with Bulgarian Dimitar Nikolov Iliev, who was sentenced to seven years prison for money laundering in 2016, Indian Sayed Mohammed Said and Malaysian Tee Kok King, who were both serving jail terms over Indonesia's tough laws on drugs.

Jailbreaks are common in Indonesia where most prisons are overcrowded.

The escape in Bali comes just days after dozens of inmates swam through flood waters to escape an Indonesian jail in Jambi province after one of its walls collapsed. Most were later recaptured.

Last month, more than 440 inmates fled a jail in Pekanbaru City on the island of Sumatra after prison guards let them out of their cells to pray. Only about half were caught.
Thai soldiers man a checkpoint in the south in April: a roadside bomb on June 19, 2017, killed six soldiers

Six Thai soldiers were killed and four injured when a roadside bomb ripped their patrol truck apart in the insurgency-plagued south on Monday, police said.

The bomb hit the pick-up as it was carrying ten soldiers along a dirt road in Pattani province, leaving a pile of rubble and twisted car parts.

"The roadside bomb exploded before noon, killing six and injuring four," said Preuk Liengsuk, the police chief of Thung Yang Daeng district.

Thailand bombing

The Muslim-majority border region has been racked by violence for over a decade as ethnic Malay insurgents battle the government of Buddhist-majority Thailand for more autonomy.

Frequent shooting and bomb attacks have claimed more than 6,800 lives since 2004, with both sides accused of rights abuses and atrocities.

Thailand's ruling junta has tried to restart peace talks with the Muslim militants since its 2014 power grab.

But the negotiations have failed to gain traction and regular attacks continue across the region.

The Thai side is unconvinced that rebel negotiators at the table can control foot soldiers, while the insurgents do not believe the junta will concede political autonomy any time soon.

While the insurgents mostly target troops and police, they also routinely turn their weapons on teachers, local officials and other civilians seen as collaborators with the state.

The last major bombing blamed on rebels -- who rarely claim attacks -- left at least 40 people wounded outside a supermarket in Pattani in May.

The army has also faced repeated accusations of abuse, including extrajudicial killings and torture of detainees in a region ruled for years by emergency laws.
Sitra in Bahrain is has been shaken by clashes between security forces and Shiite Muslim protestors, according to the interior ministry

A "terrorist" bomb attack in a Shiite village in Bahrain has killed a policeman and wounded two others, the interior ministry in the Sunni-ruled Gulf kingdom said on Monday.

The attack late Sunday occurred in Diraz, west of the capital Manama, the ministry said on its Twitter account.

Witnesses said they heard a loud blast near the home of revered Shiite cleric Isa Qassim, where five people were killed last month when security forces opened fire to disperse a sit-in.

Police blocked all entries into the village after the bombing, witnesses said, adding security forces have been maintaining a cordon around Qassim's house since the protest dispersal.

Qassim is considered to be the spiritual leader of Bahrain's majority Shiite community.

The Bahrain authorities sentenced Qassim in May to a suspended one-year jail term for illegal fundraising and money laundering.

A court last year stripped him of his citizenship, sparking repeated sit-ins outside his residence in Diraz.

The kingdom has been rocked by unrest since 2011, when security forces boosted by Gulf troops crushed Shiite-led protests demanding a constitutional monarchy and an elected prime minister.

Foreign press access is severely restricted in the archipelago, which is located between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and is home to the US Fifth Fleet.
A member of the Iraqi forces mans a machine gun in an armoured vehicle as troops advance towards Mosul's Old City on June 18, 2017, during the ongoing offensive to retake the last district still held by the Islamic State group

Iraqi authorities have dropped leaflets over Mosul warning civilians to stay inside and are telling jihadists to "surrender or die" after launching an assault to retake the Old City.

Iraqi forces launched an assault on Sunday to recapture the Old City, the last district of Mosul still held by the Islamic State group after a months-long offensive.

Commanders say the jihadists are putting up fierce resistance and there are concerns for the more than 100,000 civilians believed to remain inside the Old City.

Late on Sunday, Iraqi forces dropped nearly 500,000 leaflets over the city, warning that they "have started attacking from all directions".

The leaflets calls on civilians to "stay away from open spaces and... to exploit any opportunity that arises during the fighting" to escape.

Iraqi forces have also stationed Humvees by the Grand Mosque on the eastern side of Mosul, which faces the Old City and is mounted with speakers.

The loudspeakers have been blaring messages to civilians, saying Iraqi forces "are about to end your suffering".

Messages were also being broadcast to IS fighters, telling them: "You have only this choice: surrender or die".

The push into Mosul's Old City -- a densely populated warren of narrow alleyways on the western side of Iraq's second city -- marks the culmination of a months-long campaign by Iraqi forces to retake IS's last major urban stronghold in the country.

The loss of Mosul would mark the effective end of the Iraqi portion of the cross-border "caliphate" IS declared in the summer of 2014 after seizing large parts of Iraq and neighbouring Syria.
News of the collision between a US warship and a container vessel plays on a huge video screen as a probe into the cause of the crash was under way

A probe into the crash between a US navy destroyer and a Philippine-flagged cargo ship was under way Monday, as the names of seven American sailors who died were made public.

Investigators were looking at how the USS Fitzgerald came to be holed in the smash in a busy shipping lane near its home port.

The container ship, the 222-metre Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal, made a 180 degree turn shortly before the accident, according to data from the Marine Traffic website. It was not immediately clear what prompted the sharp turn.

The US navy and Japan's coastguard are conducting separate inquiries, but will likely be co-operating, a spokesman for Japan's transport safety board told AFP.

Japanese coastguard investigators will be interviewing the Filipino crew of the Japanese-owned container ship, although the US has primary jurisdiction in investigating accidents involving military.

Citing local investigators, Japan's top-selling Yomiuri newspaper said Monday that the damage on both ships suggests they were travelling in the same direction when the crash occurred, 56 nautical miles southwest of Yokosuka.

The impact tore a huge gash in the Fitzgerald, sending gallons of water flooding into the berths where the crew were sleeping.

The bodies of the sailors, who were aged between 19 and 37, were recovered by navy divers after their 154-metre (500-foot) vessel limped into port.

The huge commercial vessel came into Yokosuka with large scrapes on its bow, but none of its 20 crew were injured.

Japan's coastguard is also investigating why it took nearly an hour before the Philippine ship reported the collision, a coastguard spokesman said.

"We had first announced that the collision occurred at 2:20 am, based on the initial report from the Philippine ship, but we have now changed it to 1:30 am after directly hearing from the crew," the spokesman said.

"We are checking what happened during the time and why the report was delayed," he added.

There have been around 30 boat crashes over the past decade in the area, including a 2013 incident when six Japanese crew died after their cargo ship crashed with another vessel in the early morning hours, a coastguard spokesman said.

"That's considered a lot of accidents," he said, adding that many ships pass through the channel in the middle of the night to be on time for morning cargo pick-ups.

"There are all kinds of ships navigating those waters."

- Right of way? -

Under maritime law, the container ship had an obligation to avoid a collision if it was trying to overtake the destroyer from behind.

But if the container vessel was approaching from the US ship's right side, the destroyer had the obligation to give way, another Japanese coastguard spokesman said.

"Generally speaking, if a ship sees another vessel on its right hand side it has the obligation to avoid" a collision, he added.

Investigators are sure to put the vessels' trackable movements under a microscope to figure out what set the deadly crash in motion, said Shoji Fujimoto, a maritime safety expert at Japan's Kobe University.

"Probably the bulbous bow of the container ship, which is below the waterline, crashed into the hull of the naval ship," he added, referring to a protuberance at the front of some ships designed to reduce wave resistance.

"Modern-day destroyers' hulls are made from very thin steel sheets...so they're vulnerable in a crash."

On Sunday, US 7th Fleet commander Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin said the crew would have had little chance of escaping the "tremendous" amount of water that gushed into the ship after the accident tore open its side.

"A significant part of the crew was sleeping," he told reporters. "There wasn't a lot of time in spaces that were open to the sea."

"So, it was traumatic. As to how much warning they had -- I don't know."

Several other US crew members were injured in the accident and had to be evacuated by air to hospital, including the vessel's commanding officer Bryce Benson.

He and a couple of other crew members have since been released from hospital.
Ankara said the military exercises would raise raise "Qatari and Turkish fighting efficiency"

Turkish troops have arrived in Doha to take part in joint training exercises, Qatar's defence ministry said on Monday, at a time of high tension in the Gulf.

The first joint drills took place on Sunday at the Tariq bin Ziyad military camp in Doha, the ministry said in a statement carried by the official news agency.

The exercises aim to raise "Qatari and Turkish fighting efficiency amid plans for joint operations to fight extremism and terrorism, as well as peacekeeping operations before and after military operations," said the statement in Arabic.

The drills had "been planned for some time" added the statement.

They are taking place as a diplomatic crisis in the Gulf enters its third week.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and other countries have cut ties with Qatar over accusations the emirate supports extremism.

Doha denies the accusations and says measures imposed on Qatar by its Gulf neighbours amount to a "blockade".

Turkey is one of Qatar's strongest allies.

Earlier this month, Ankara fast-tracked a separate agreement to allow troops to be deployed at Turkey's military base in Qatar.

It has also increased food supplies to Qatar after the emirate's land border was closed.

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has been one of the figures trying to forge a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

And Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed the economic and political isolation of Qatar as "inhumane and un-Islamic".

Last year, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani was the first foreign leader to phone Erdogan after a failed coup in Turkey.

Last week, Qatar's navy carried out three days of joint training exercises with the US Navy.
A victim of the Philippines' drugs war with his wife: 19 police officers charged over a separate murder during the campaign will now face lesser charges

Nineteen Philippine policemen originally charged with murder during President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs have been freed on bail and will be tried for a lesser crime, sparking criticism Monday from rights activists.

The tough-talking Duterte has repeatedly said he will defend police officers involved in the bloody anti-narcotics war, although he has also described the force as "corrupt to the core".

Police Superintendent Marvin Marcos and 18 other officers were originally accused of murdering two people inside their prison cell -- one of them being a city mayor detained on suspicion of drug-dealing.

The officers posted bail Friday after the charge was amended to the lesser one of homicide, said national police chief Ronald dela Rosa.

"This just shows that there's impunity," Amnesty International's local spokesman Wilnor Papa told AFP.

"Vigilantes and police are getting away with it (killings)... this is a classic example that people in power get away with it."

State prosecutors in March had charged the officers with murder over the shooting death of town mayor Rolando Espinosa and his cellmate at a prison on the central island of Leyte.

Duterte had earlier accused Espinosa and his son of being the drug kingpins in the area. The son surrendered after his father was killed.

Authorities said at the time the elder Espinosa's arrest was evidence the drugs problem was prevalent nationwide, justifying the brutal government response.

Marcos and his co-accused said the mayor was killed when he fought back with a gun during a raid on his cell. Other inmates said there was no such firefight.

The accused filed an appeal, arguing that the charges should be downgraded because the killing was not premeditated, and state prosecutors amended the charges.

Duterte has come in for severe criticism from Western governments and human rights groups over the war on drugs because of the lack of due process and the deaths of innocent people.

He has said police who follow his orders in the brutal anti-drugs war should not worry about prosecution.

Before the charges were downgraded in Marcos's case, the president said he was ready to pardon him and the other officers if convicted.

Isidro Lapena, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said 3,116 people had been killed in government operations against illegal drugs in Duterte's first 11 months in office.

Unknown attackers have killed more than 1,800 others, while about 5,700 other violent deaths are under investigation, according to police data as of May.

Many of the victims were poor people from Manila's sprawling slums.
This US Navy photo shows an F/A-18E Super Hornet in 2016

Russia on Monday warned it would track US-led coalition aircraft in Syria as potential "targets" and halted a military hotline with Washington after US forces downed a Syrian jet.

The United States moved quickly to contain an escalation, with a top general saying it would work to relaunch the "deconfliction" hotline established in 2015.

The downing of the jet and Russia's response came as the US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State (IS) jihadist group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, although the risks remain high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields and airspace.

"Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as aerial targets by Russia's air defences on and above ground," said Russia's defence ministry.

It said Washington had failed to use the hotline -- a vital incident-prevention tool -- before downing the plane near Raqa.

"We will work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to re-establish deconfliction," said US General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, referring to the hotline.

Forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad had attacked the SDF in Jaaydine, south of Tabqa

Pentagon spokesman, Major Adrian Rankine Galloway, said the US had taken "prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria" to ensure the safety of pilots.

The jet was downed on Sunday evening after regime forces targeted the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, an alliance of Arab and Kurdish fighters battling IS.

An American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, said the US-led coalition.

Russia's defence minister said the pilot ejected "above IS-controlled territories" and that his fate was unknown.

- 'Flagrant aggression' -

The coalition said Syrian troops attacked SDF fighters near Tabqa, south of Raqa, wounding several and chasing them out of the town.

It said the warplane was targeted in line with the "rules of engagement".

Damascus and its ally Moscow condemned the "aggression".

The Syrian army said the plane was hit while on a mission against IS jihadists and warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said it was a "continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law".

"What is this if not an act of aggression?"

It was the latest skirmish between the coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

Members of Ahmad Jarba's Syrian Elite Forces, fighting alongside the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces ride a truck in a neighbourhood on the eastern front of Raqa on June 14

Backed by the coalition, SDF forces entered Raqa for the first time two weeks ago, after months of fierce fighting, and have seized four neighbourhoods.

The Syrian army is not involved in the offensive, and has instead turned its focus further east to the largely IS-held, oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor.

Pro-regime forces are moving on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along the eastern border.

The advance have created tensions, particularly along Syria's border, where the US and its allies are training an anti-IS force at the Al-Tanaf garrison.

Earlier this month, the coalition fired on pro-regime ground forces who approached the garrison and shot down a pro-regime armed drone.

Russia threatened to scrap the hotline after an April 7 US cruise missile strike on a Syrian regime airbase in retaliation for a suspected chemical weapons attack that killed dozens of civilians.

- 'Escalation by accident' -

Sam Heller, a Syria expert at The Century Foundation think-tank, said the regime was provoking confrontations, but neither side appeared to want a major escalation.

"I think that it was just that the regime engaged in a provocation and then a lower-rung US commander responded in self-defence," he said of Sunday's incident.

"The regime got too close and it got burned."

But provocations by Syria's government and its allies were a potentially risky strategy.

"It doesn't look like anyone currently intends to deliberately escalate further, but when you've got these little skirmishes... the risk is that you can end up in an escalation by accident."

On Monday morning, the area where the regime and SDF fighters clashed was quiet and the US-backed alliance was continuing to battle IS inside Raqa, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Government forces meanwhile seized the town of Rusafa, south of Raqa, a key stop on its path to Deir Ezzor and located near provincial oil and gas fields, the monitor added.

Syria's war began in March 2011 with anti-government protests that spiralled into a complex and devastating conflict that has killed more than 320,000 people.

A picture provided by the Iran's state TV official website shows Iranian Revolutionary Guards launching a missile from an undisclosed location in western Iran, towards Islamic State bases in Syria

Rebels are now on the back foot after regime advances with support from allies Russia and Iran.

On Sunday, Tehran for the first time fired missiles from its territory against IS positions in Deir Ezzor.

It said the missiles were "in retaliation" for June 7 attacks in Tehran on the parliament complex and shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini that killed 17 people and was claimed by IS.

On Monday, the United Nations expressed deep concern over the risk of escalation in Syria.
As a child we always aspire to be all grown up, but as an adult we must remember to keep that inner 3-year-old visible. New York Institute of Dance & Education Product Director Kierstyn Zaykoski returned to her alma mater, the South Jefferson Wilson elementary building, to lead a Tolerance of Others through Movement lecture demonstration to a gym full of kindergarten through fifth-grade students and teachers. During this presentation, she reminded the students and teachers that it is important to remember that inner 3-year-old, and not be too pressed to grow up and be just like everyone else. The joy felt was palpable as students shared a group hug at the end of the presentation. Do not forget why you got up this MTMonday. #MTMonday
The six-year Syrian conflict has killed more than 320,000 people and seen nearly two thirds of Syrians forced from their homes

The next round of Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital Astana has been scheduled for July 4-5, both Russia and Kazakhstan said Monday.

"According to the latest information, the meeting on Syria in Astana is currently set for July 4 and 5," the Russian foreign ministry said Monday evening, Ria Novosti reported.

Earlier the Kazakh foreign ministry had issued a statement announcing the dates and saying "the participants plan to discuss the situation in Syria, the process of abiding by agreements reached during previous rounds of talks in Astana, including the creation of de-escalation zones in Syria."

A source in Geneva close to the negotiations also confirmed to AFP that the Astana talks would take place on July 4-5 but that the Geneva talks on Syria would start on July 10.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters in Beijing that the UN Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura -- who announced the date for the Geneva round on Saturday -- would take part in the Russian-backed talks.

A new round of Astana talks had been scheduled for June but was indefinitely postponed as key players wrangled over the future of fragile safe zones agreed for Syria in May.

Russia and Iran, which back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces in the war, and Turkey, a supporter of rebel forces, signed an agreement on May 4 on setting up four safe zones.

Lavrov on Monday said these zones "are one of the possible options to move forward together".

Moscow has spearheaded the Astana talks since the start of the year as it tries to turn its game-changing military intervention on the ground into a negotiated settlement.

The tense negotiations -- seen as a complement to the broader UN-backed talks in Geneva -- have involved armed rebels and Syrian government officials and have focused mainly on military issues.

The last Geneva talks ended on May 19 after four days without making any real progress.

The six-year Syrian conflict has killed more than 320,000 people and seen nearly two thirds of Syrians forced from their homes.
A US F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian warplane that the US-led coalition said attacked its allies in the fight against the Islamic State group

Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov condemned the United States on Monday for shooting down a Syrian warplane, describing it as an act of aggression.

"This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law," Ryabkov told journalists in Moscow, according to the TASS state news agency.

"What is this if not an act of aggression?" he said in Russia's first official reaction to the downing of the plane on Sunday.

"It is, if you like, help to those terrorists that the US is fighting against, declaring they are carrying out an anti-terrorism policy," Ryabkov said.

The US-led coalition said the Syrian plane had dropped bombs on its allies fighting against the Islamic State group in the war-torn country.
Jay Z's new album will be the rapper's first since "Magna Carta Holy Grail" in 2013

Rap mogul Jay Z will release his latest album at the end of this month, the Tidal music streaming service said Monday, confirming weeks of rumors that the artist was preparing a new project.

The album, titled "4:44", will be available on June 30 exclusively to Tidal subscribers and to customers of Sprint, the telecom giant that bought a one-third stake in the music streaming platform earlier this year.

The announcement comes on the heels of highly anticipated reports that Jay Z's pop diva wife Beyonce recently gave birth to twins, making their superstar family a party of five.

A 30-second trailer released late Sunday featuring lyrics from the rapper hinted at the prospect of an album -- which was then confirmed just after midnight by Tidal and Sprint.

"Jay Z is a global icon and we're giving customers an incredible opportunity to be among the first to experience his new album 4:44," Sprint chief executive Marcelo Claure said in a statement.

Enigmatic promotion efforts began appearing for the project this month when cryptic banners reading "4:44" popped up online and in New York's Times Square.

The signs turned out to be advertisements for a mysterious film available on Tidal featuring the actors Mahershala Ali, Lupita Nyong'o and Danny Glover, for which a black-and-white trailer featuring Ali as a boxer was later rolled out.

The latest clip includes similar visuals and the same soulful electronic score -- and this time closes with four lines from Jay Z.

The album will be the rapper's first since 2013's "Magna Carta Holy Grail."

Though fans now have a release date, it remains unclear whether the album and film will be separate entities or a visual album akin to the conceptual "Lemonade" that Beyonce put out last year.

That intricate project was first released exclusively via Tidal before being offered on Apple's iTunes.

Jay Z bought Tidal in 2014 from Aspiro, a Norwegian company whose shares are listed in Sweden, and has tried to make it the preferred platform for music afficionados through exclusives, original video content and high-quality audio.

But even with the rapid growth worldwide in streaming, Tidal has struggled and remains a small player in a market dominated by Sweden's Spotify.

Sprint's purchase of the Tidal stake for an estimated $200 million surprised many industry watchers, some of whom had doubted the service's long-term health.
Boko Haram has repeatedly targeted Maiduguri, particularly its outlying communities, IDP camps and the city's university

At least 16 people were killed in suicide bomb attacks near a camp for those made homeless by Boko Haram violence in northeast Nigeria, emergency services said on Monday.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the attacks took place at about 8:45 pm (1945 GMT) on Sunday close to the Dalori camp at Kofa village, near the Borno state capital Maiduguri.

NEMA northeast region spokesman Abdulkadir Ibrahim said two female suicide bombers tried to get into the camp but were thwarted by security personnel.

"Two other female suicide bombers also detonated their explosives at the adjoining Dalori Kofa village, where they killed 16 people," he added in a statement.

Earlier tolls given by local people said at least 12 or 13 people had been killed but Abdulkadir said three of those injured and taken to hospital had since died.

"The 16 does not include the bombers," he told AFP.

Dalori is about 10 kilometres (six miles) southeast of Maiduguri and is one of the largest camps for internally displaced people (IDP) in the remote region.

Map locating Dalori near Maiduguri in northeast Nigeria, where a suicide attack in a camp for the displaced killed 16

Boko Haram has previously tried to target the camp: at least 85 people were killed in January last year when insurgents rampaged through communities near Dalori.

Residents were shot and their homes burned down while female suicide bombers blew themselves up among the crowds of people fleeing the violence.

The latest attack is the most deadly in Nigeria since June 8, when 11 people were killed in a rare combined gun and suicide attack in the Jiddari Polo area of Maiduguri.

Boko Haram has repeatedly targeted the strategic city, particularly its outlying communities, IDP camps and the city's university.

The bombings and sporadic hit-and-run attacks underline the threat still posed by the jihadists, despite claims from the authorities they are a spent force.

Gunmen killed eight members of a civilian militia force assisting the military on June 11 in the Konduga area, which is on the same road as the Dalori camp.

At least 20,000 people have been killed in the conflict since 2009 and more than 2.6 million made homeless, many of whom are facing severe food shortages or starvation.
US President Donald Trump caused outrage when he withdrew the United States from the 2015 Paris climate accord

The European Union on Monday blasted US President Donald Trump for pulling out of the Paris climate change pact and said Brussels would continue to lead efforts to prevent global warming.

Trump caused outrage when he withdrew the United States -- one of the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases -- from the 2015 accord which is meant to curb rising temperatures driven by human activity.

"The Council (of EU member states) deeply regrets the unilateral decision by the US administration to withdraw from the Paris Agreement," said a statement approved by the bloc's foreign ministers at a meeting in Luxembourg.

"The Paris Agreement brought us together in very challenging times... the Council reaffirms that the Paris Agreement is fit for purpose and cannot be renegotiated," it added.

Trump said the pact, signed by nearly 200 countries, hit the United States with "draconian financial and economic burdens" while competitors got off lightly.

"This agreement is less about the climate and more about other countries gaining a financial advantage over the United States," Trump said when announcing the withdrawal earlier this month.

Trump's decision was seen as a part of a new unilateralist approach in the White House, undermining international accords and especially the role of the United Nations.

In Monday's statement, the 28-nation EU repeated its "steadfast support for the United Nations as the core of a rules-based multilateral system".

"The EU and its member states remain united and absolutely committed to full and swift implementation of the Paris Agreement," it said.

"The world can continue to count on the EU for leadership in the global fight against climate change."
Members of India's Dalit caste at a protest in 2016: a member of the community is being proposed for president

India's ruling party on Monday named a lawyer from the lowest Dalit caste as its candidate for president, a move seen as an attempt to reach out to the marginalised community.

Ram Nath Kovind, 71, is likely to take up the largely ceremonial post when the term of Pranab Mukherjee ends next month, becoming the second Dalit to be India's head of state.

The president is voted in by an electoral college comprised of federal and state lawmakers, and the ruling ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is thought to have the support it needs to push its candidate through.

"Ram Nath Kovind has always fought for the betterment of the Dalits and other backward castes," BJP chief Amit Shah said at a press conference to announce the party's candidate.

"The BJP ... hopes that a person born in a poor family of low-caste Dalit community will be a consensus candidate for the president's post."

Kovind's nomination follows huge protests last year by members of the historically marginalised Dalit community, who make up around 17 percent of India's population.

The protests broke out after four young Dalits were stripped naked and publicly flogged after being falsely accused of killing a cow, an animal Hindus consider sacred.

The outrage was compounded by the savage beating of a pregnant woman and her husband after they refused to allow higher-caste men to graze cattle on their land.

The BJP has traditionally enjoyed the support of upper-caste Hindus but has been wooing low-caste voters to broaden its nationwide appeal.

Kovind, a two-time parliamentarian and current governor of the eastern state of Bihar, is a lifelong supporter of the Hindu nationalist BJP and a relative unknown in Indian politics.

He has also headed groups that work to improve the conditions of Dalits, previously known as untouchables, who lie at the bottom of India's deeply entrenched social hierarchy.

If elected, he will be India's second Dalit president after K R Narayanan, who served from 1997 to 2002.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted that Kovind would "make an exceptional president" and "continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised".

The opposition, led by the Congress Party, will reportedly meet on Thursday to decide whether to name a separate candidate or support Kovind.

But political observers said it could be difficult for rival parties to oppose a Dalit candidate.

"Modi and Shah have shrewdly ensured that they cause a strategic split in the opposition camp while getting an ideological fellow traveller into Rashtrapati Bhavan," wrote journalist Swati Chaturvedi on the NDTV news website, referring to the president's official residence.

"If elected, Kovind will ensure that Modi has a friend in Rashtrapati Bhavan."

India's prime minister wields most of the executive power, but the president can send back some parliamentary bills for reconsideration and also plays a guiding role in the process of forming governments.
Malian police enter the Kangaba tourist resort just east of the capital Bamako a day after the assault which began on Sunday

An Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist alliance claimed responsibility Monday for an attack on a tourist resort near Mali's capital that left five people dead, including members of a European Union mission to the country.

The Group to Support Islam and Muslims, a fusion of jihadist groups with previous Al-Qaeda links, said in a statement three of its "martyrs" had killed Westerners in Sunday's assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort.

The group, also known as Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen in Arabic, said the attackers were from the Fula ethnic group and battled for "many hours" at the popular eco-lodge near Bamako, which it termed a site of "debauchery".

Their statement was quickly picked up by extremist monitor SITE and two Mauritanian news agencies known for reporting on the region's jihadist activity, after being posted on the group's Telegram channel.

Three foreigners, a Malian civilian and a Malian soldier were killed in the latest high-profile assault in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

Witnesses said EU and UN staff raised the alert to speed up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when the shooting began at Kangaba.

Some assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest), according to other witnesses interviewed.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, speaking in Luxembourg, confirmed two of the victims were EU staff, a Portuguese soldier who was training troops in the Malian army and a Malian woman.

- Investigation opens -

Prosecutor Boubacar Sidiky Samake said other victims were a Chinese man, a Malian woman and a Portuguese man who died from bullet wounds, while a man from Cameroon died of a heart attack at the scene.

Samake also announced that a criminal investigation has been opened and that Kalashnikovs, a pistol and ammunition had been retrieved from the site of the atttack.

At least four suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed during the incident, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

Traore said 36 hostages, mostly French and Malian, were freed, but around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the eco-lodge Monday.

Kangaba is known to be popular with expatriates. The Portuguese soldier who died was among off-duty members of the EU's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country.

A Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

Among those saved Sunday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to the security ministry.

- US warning -

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako.

Samake said Monday that the Kangaba attack "bore all the hallmarks" of the Radisson Blu assault.

That siege, which left 20 people dead, led to the government imposing a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners.

In January, Kangaba's owner Herve Depardieu had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

Residents were first alerted to the attack on the Kangaba tourist resort near the Malian capital Bamako when they heard gunshots and saw smoke billowing into the air

In a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

- New anti-terror force -

In 2012, Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

Since then, jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels that aimed to tackle some of the grievances held by separatists in the north.

Despite the presence of the 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission and French troops serving in a separate counter-terrorism force operating across the Sahel region, instability is growing.

France is pressing the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution to fund and support a new African anti-jihadist force in the Sahel, comprising troops from Mali, Niger, Chad, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.

But Washington says the resolution is too vague. As the leading financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, it also wants to tighten spending.

After paying homage to victims, African Union Commission (AU) Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat on Monday described "the crucial importance of the Security Council's support to the collective efforts of the countries of the region," referring to the proposed resolution.

Malian special forces worked with their French counterparts to halt the attack on the resort which lies just east of the capital Bamako

Mogherini, who has promised 50 million euros ($56 million) to back the new force, said Monday that Europeans and Africans were "brothers and sisters" in the fight against terror.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin, right, and China's President Xi Jinping attend the opening ceremony for the Naval Cooperation 2014 joint exercises at a command center of the Wusong naval base in Shanghai. Russia and China have taken turns hosting the exercises, dubbed "Joint Sea", since 2012.

A Chinese naval fleet is steaming towards the Baltic Sea to participate in joint exercises with Russia, with the show of force to take place after US President Donald Trump visits NATO ally Poland next month.

The three ships, headed by the Changsha destroyer, will link up with Russian vessels for drills near St Petersburg and Kaliningrad, Chinese state media reported.

Russia and China have taken turns hosting the exercises, dubbed "Joint Sea", since 2012.

This year's iteration is set to take place in late July, Xinhua news agency said, and will include Chinese marines and ship-borne helicopters.

Trump is expected to visit Poland, which is on the Baltic Sea, on July 5-6 ahead of his participation in the G20 summit in Germany.

The US president has taken a tough stance on the alliance, which has been a perpetual thorn in Russia's side, leaving many to question his commitment to the joint-security arrangement that was born during the Cold War.

Xinhua said late Sunday that this year's drills aim "to consolidate and advance the Sino-Russian comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination, and deepen friendly and practical cooperation between the two militaries."

The exercises, it added, will also "improve coordination between the two navies on joint defence operations at sea".

Previous year's drills have also been held in politically sensitive areas.

Last year, the exercises took place in the contested South China Sea, where Beijing's construction of artificial islands in waters claimed by its neighbours has drawn criticism from the US and other nations which say the project threatens freedom of navigation through the region.
A handout picture provided by Iran state TV and released on June 18, 2017 shows Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps launching a missile from an undisclosed location in western Iran, towards Islamic State group bases in Syria

Iran has targeted jihadists in Syria with missiles in retaliation for deadly attacks in Tehran, but the strike was also a message to its regional rivals and Washington, experts say.

Late Sunday, the elite Revolutionary Guards launched six missiles from western Iran into Syria's mostly Islamic State group-held Deir Ezzor province, hitting an IS command base, the Guards said.

The strike was "revenge" for twin attacks in Tehran on June 7 that killed 17 people in the first IS-claimed attacks inside the Shiite-ruled Islamic republic, a Guards spokesman added.

As well as punishing "terrorists", it was intended to show that Iran is capable of projecting military power across the region, officials and experts said.

Tehran has devoted vast military and financial resources to propping up the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in a six-year civil war.

It has also sent thousands of Shiite recruits to fight in Syria and battle IS in neighbouring Iraq, according to officials.

But Sunday's strike was the first known missile attack launched from Iran into foreign territory since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88.

"The missile attacks were only a small part of Iran's punitive power against terrorists and enemies," Guards spokesman General Ramezan Sharif said Monday.

"International and regional supporters of the terrorists must realise the warning message of the missile operation."

Iran has long accused the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia of backing "terrorists" -- a catch-all phrase for rebels and jihadist groups fighting the Assad regime.

US President Donald Trump meanwhile accuses Iran of backing terrorism -- a charge it denies -- and has threatened to tear up a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers.

- 'Response' to Senate vote -

The US Senate last week passed tough sanctions on Iran for its alleged "continued support of terrorism".

Iran condemned the move and vowed to respond with "reciprocal and adequate measures".

Alaeddin Boroujerdi, chairman of a parliamentary committee on foreign affairs and national security, called Sunday's strike "an appropriate response to the US Senate vote".

Analyst Foad Izadi said the strike was intended to convey several messages.

"The first message is that Iran punishes terrorists," he said.

But it was also meant to show that "Iran, in its fight against terrorism, needs missiles -- and sanctions have no influence on its defence policies."

Iran's homemade missiles, which can hit targets up to 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) away, are a major point of tension with Washington and Israel.

Tehran argues that in a region engulfed with conflicts and wars, its missiles are an indispensible part of its defensive power.

Iran's weapons programme is also a major concern for its Sunni arch-rival Saudi Arabia.

The two regional heavyweights back opposing sides in several conflicts including in Syria and Yemen.

Sunday's strike came amid rising tensions between Riyadh and Tehran. Izadi said it was partly intended for a Saudi audience.

"Riyadh must know that all of its oil regions are within the range of Iranian missiles," he said.

- 'Message to Netanyahu' -

Saudi Arabia struck a giant arms deal with Washington this month during President Donald Trump's visit to the region, which saw him clearly align his administration with Riyadh and lash out against Tehran.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the $110 billion (100 billion euro) deal was aimed at helping the kingdom deal with "malign Iranian influence".

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said Monday that "unlike others, Iran doesn't buy security and stability".

"Security cannot be traded and those who think they can provide their security by dragging extra-regional countries here are making a stupid strategic mistake," he said.

While Saudi Arabia has spent billions on American weapons, Iran has developed a range of homemade ballistic missiles -- including some that are capable of hitting Israel or American military bases in the region.

Izadi said Sunday's strike on Deir Ezzor, halfway between Iranian and Israeli territory, was also meant as a message to Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu, "who regularly threatens Iran."

"The missiles that were fired are medium range -- Iran has long-range missiles with much greater ranges," he said.

Boroujerdi said the strike marked "a new phase in the fight against terrorism."

"So far, we only posted military advisors on the ground in Syria and Iraq," he said.

"But the attack shows we are capable of hitting terrorists hundreds of kilometres away."
A white sheet covers the bodies of some of the victims of the double suicide bombing in Dalori Kofa village in northeast Nigeria

At least 16 people died in a double suicide bombing near a large camp for people made homeless by years of Boko Haram violence, Nigeria's emergency services and locals said Monday.

The bombing was one of a series of attacks in the conflict-hit region on Sunday which killed a total of 24 people, most of them civilians.

In the attack, which took place on Sunday evening, two women blew themselves up in Kofa village which houses a large camp for those displaced by Boko Haram violence, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said.

"They killed 16 people," said regional NEMA spokesman Abdulkadir Ibrahim. Kofa lies about 15 kilometres (nine miles) southeast of Maiduguri, capital of Borno state.

Local residents gave an initial toll of 12 or 13 dead but the spokesman said three of the wounded had died of their injuries in hospital.

- Second attack by female bombers -

At around the same time, two more explosions occurred inside the nearby Dalori 2 camp which is home to some 10,000 people, he said, indicating it was caused by another two female bombers.

Several people were wounded but only the attackers died, he said, without saying how many were hurt.

The attack targeted Dalori Kofa village in northeast Nigeria which adjoins a camp for thousands of people displaced by Boko Haram violence

Dalori is home to two camps which together provide shelter for some 50,000 people displaced by the violence between Boko Haram and the Nigerian army.

It is one of the largest camps for internally displaced people (IDP) in this remote region.

It is not the first time Boko Haram has tried to target the camp: in January last year, at least 85 people were killed when insurgents rampaged through communities near Dalori.

The latest attack is the most deadly in Nigeria since June 8, when 11 people were killed in a rare combined gun and suicide attack in the Jiddari Polo area of Maiduguri.

- A bloody weekend -

Elsewhere on Sunday evening, Boko Haram militants raided Gumsuri village near Chibok in eastern Borno state, killing five civilians.

But the gunmen were challenged by local vigilantes who engaged them in a gunbattle "killing 12 of them and arresting six others," said local tribal chief Ayuba Alamson in an account corroborated by the vigilantes.

Several hours earlier, three soldiers were killed in an ambush by militants near Wajirko village, 150 kilometres (90 miles) from Maiduguri, a local vigilante said.

Also at the weekend, residents from five villages near Maiduguri fled their homes after receiving death threats from Boko Haram following a raid by the army last month.

The Islamists accused the villagers of passing "vital information" to the army and threatened to "kill everyone" if they didn't leave the area, local residents said.

The spate of bombings underlines the threat still posed by the jihadists, despite official claims they are a spent force.

Since the start of Boko Harm's uprising in 2009, at least 20,000 people have been killed since and more than 2.6 million made homeless, many of whom are facing severe food shortages or starvation.
If you ask a winemaker, the term Vintner Vacation is a bit of an oxymoron. Theyll likely say that vacations do not exist for winemakers. It is, thankfully, a labor of love. That is not to say that work cannot be enjoyed without the occasional vacation, but rather that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. So, the team at the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail has come to the rescue.

Five winners  three hailing from Pennsylvania, one from Connecticut and one from Vermont  each brought a lucky friend of theirs to experience a bit of what the trail has to offer. The group spent three days and two nights relishing in the sights and tastes of Cayuga Lake.

The vacation began with a picnic-style lunch on the patio at Knapps Vineyard Restaurant. Chef John McNabb and team prepared sriracha chicken salad wraps with tortilla chips and their signature Cayuga Caviar (a delicious vinegary black bean, onion and corn salsa), pomme frittes and an assortment of chilled wines. The Brut was the first bottle finished, and this time it was not my fault! After lunch, tasting room manager Micah walked the group through a tasting, including the signature spirits, cucumber vodka and limoncello. Their time at Knapp concluded with a tour of the vineyard and production facility by longtime winemaker Steve DiFrancesco.

Day one, stop two was to Buttonwood Grove Winery. We lucked out because it was bottling day at the winery. The group got to witness owner Dave Pittard along with winemaker Susan Passmore and others bottling dry Riesling. Then, team leaders Marcia and Kathy directed a very unique exercise with the group, a lesson in writing wine descriptions. The participants were given wines and asked to take notes on the perceived aromas, body, flavors and finish of their wine samples. Then, their assignment was to craft a written description that would make the wine seem appealing to a potential buyer. It was much more difficult than they had imagined, but a very fun experience.

Our extremely hot and humid day one ended early-afternoon and the group disbursed for dinner of their choosing at various local restaurants. Some stayed overnight in the rustic yet modern cabins at Buttonwood Grove Winery while others hung their hats down the road at the new and luxurious Cayuga Lake Cabins. I am told that when they plan their return trips to the Finger Lakes, the cabins will be among their first choice for accommodations.

On Tuesday, the group visited Long Point Winery by a scenic boat ride with Captain DD via Water to Wine Tours of Ovid. At Long Point, owner and winemaker Gary Barletta walked them through a vertical tasting of cabernet sauvignon. It was incredibly interesting to see how the different vintages affect the wine, coupled with the amount of time it has spent aging in the bottle.

Then, as we were brought back to the shore to catch our boat, we got notification that a storm was hovering over Goose Watch Winery. We had plans to visit for a tasting and to tour the sparkling facility, but for the safety of our guests, we chose not to boat into the storm and went directly to Thirsty Owl Wine Company and its bistro. After a full tasting, Executive Chef Sean Agate treated everyone to what seemed like a 15-course meal! On the table upon arrival were Spreads and Breads featuring a tomato, basil and olive tapenade, and a roasted garlic hummus with fresh bread. Next, came a platter presenting an assortment of Muranda cheese, local from Waterloo, with crackers and seasonal fruits. Then, pinwheel sandwich bites and dill pickles to hold our attention while they prepped the main course, chicken riggies with fresh goat cheese crumbled on top. The meal concluded with vanilla bean ice cream from the Cayuga Lake Creamery over baked apple crisp. With exceptionally full bellies, we were lugged in two trips on the Kubota from the tasting room back to our boat. Our tour concluded as Captain DD dropped us off at the Busy Bee Market and Cottages for the evening.

We were well received by the gracious owner, Vera McLafferty, who made sure everyone was comfortably checked into their overnight accommodations. She and her team had prepped a family-style picnic dinner for us to enjoy later that evening. Most of the group stayed in four quaint waterfront cottages, and the rest in the Busy Bee Lodge, which comfortably sleeps 11 and overlooks the lake and the rest of the property.

Their final day began with an early morning session at the new on-premises yoga barn and breakfast at the Busy Bee Market. After packing up, the gang headed to Lucas Vineyards. There, they met with mother and daughter team Ruth and Stephanie Lucas, original owners of the oldest winery on Cayuga Lake and some of the founding members of the wine trail. Ruth and Stephanie spoke of their experience as winery owners when the industry first emerged and what it has been like to endure all the changes the industry has undergone in their 30-plus years of business. We were then joined by Stephanies husband and their lauded winemaker, Jeff Houck, who offered tasting of his favorites before bringing the group to see some of the oldest vines on the lake, then explained their umbrella trellising system and production practices. Our guests were particularly interested in the history behind the winery and their personal stories that are even conveyed through their marketing and wine labels.

Our Vintner Vacation concluded with a tasting at Americana Vineyards, followed by lunch at their Crystal Lake Cafe. The meal began with charcuterie boards and each person ordered their choice from the menu. My personal recommendations are the grilled cheese, which has melted cheddar, gruyere, goat cheese, smoked gouda and tomato on sourdough and the lamb burger, with lettuce, tomato, red onion, kalamata tapenade, rosemary aioli and feta on a roll. Simply. Delicious.

Now its back to reality for our 10 lucky participants of the second annual Vintner Vacation along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. I would like to thank all our hosts and everyone who made this program possible. To be notified when the entry period for the 2018 Vintner Vacation has opened, submit your contact information at CayugaVintnerVacation.com.
Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo (centre) prays over the body of Abbas Abdullahi Siraji, who was assassinated in May 2017

A Somali military court sentenced a naval officer to death Monday for shooting dead the minister of public works in what the defense argued was an accident.

A young minister seen as an inspiration to many in the conflict-torn nation, Abbas Abdullahi Siraji, 31, was killed last month when armed guards shot at his vehicle outside the presidential palace.

The naval officer, Ahmed Abdullahi Abdi, 29, a bodyguard to the auditor-general -- who was fired after the incident -- was arrested and charged with the minister's murder.

"After considering the evidence brought in front of the court, including the testimonies of the witnesses, pictures of the vehicles used, evaluations of the crime scene and the gun used for the murder, the court is convinced that the accused is guilty as charged," said Colonel Hassan Ali Nur Shute, head of the military court.

"The court sentenced him to the death penalty for the killing of Abas Abdullahi Siraji."

The verdict was handed down after only three court appearances, with government under pressure to bring a culprit to book.

The defense had argued that the accused opened fire when a vehicle carrying Siraji drove up behind that of the auditor-general, seeing it as suspicious in a country that faces regular such attacks by Shabaab Islamists.

Many government officials, wealthy individuals and foreigners drive around Mogadishu with squads of armed bodyguards who are frequently nervy and trigger-happy. Many civilians have been killed in similar shootings.

Shabaab militants linked to Al-Qaeda carry out regular bombings and assassinations targeting government officials, and it is rare for a government minister to drive himself, making mistaken identity a strong possibility.

Somalia still actively carries out the death penalty by squad shooting.
Malian anti-terrorist special forces "Forsat" members enter the Kangaba tourist resort in Bamako on June 19, 2017, a day after suspected jihadists stormed the resort

The two civilians killed in a jihadist attack on a Mali tourist resort were both working for the European Union, the bloc's foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said Monday.

"Unfortunately, I can confirm that there were two victims among our European Union colleagues, a Malian woman and a Portuguese man," Mogherini said after an EU foreign ministers meeting in Luxembourg.

She said their deaths showed how strong EU ties with Mali and the region were as it struggles to cope with devastating poverty and an increasing terror threat.

The EU runs an advisory mission to help train the Mali armed forces and maintains a delegation in the capital, Bamako.

The Malian government said four attackers were killed and 36 hostages freed, with another five suspected jihadists in custody over Sunday's attack near Bamako.

Jihadists are active in Mali's troubled north and centre but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are much rarer.

The last major attack on civilians was in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako, killing 20 people.

No group has as yet claimed Sunday's assault.
A picture taken on June 13, 2017 shows Palestinian children at home reading books by candle light due to electricity shortages in Gaza City

Israel on Monday began reducing electricity supplies to the Gaza Strip, despite warnings the move could increase suffering and tensions in the Palestinian enclave.

The cut will reduce the mains power flow to Gaza to as little as two hours a day, though many businesses and the wealthy have their own generators.

The decision came after the Palestinian Authority (PA), which is based in the occupied West Bank, told Israel it would no longer foot the bill for electricity supplies to Gaza.

It raises concerns of rising tensions and a collapse of vital services in an impoverished and overcrowded territory that has been devastated by three wars with Israel since 2008.

Hamas has run Gaza since 2007, when it seized the strip in a near civil war from the Fatah party of Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, in a dispute over general elections won by the Islamist movement.

Multiple attempts at reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah have failed, but the PA had continued to pay Israel for some electricity delivered to Gaza until this month.

Israel "began to reduce electricity flow by eight megawatts" into the enclave, Gaza's energy authority said.

The state-run Israel Electricity Corporation confirmed it had diminished power supplies "in accordance with a government directive".

Until Monday, Israel supplied 120 megawatts of electricity to Gaza a month, which made up about one quarter of the enclave's needs, with the PA paying the 11.3 million euros ($12.65 million) monthly bill.

Since the sole power station in Gaza ran out of fuel and stopped working in April, the 120 megawatts represent 80 percent of available power in the strip.

The Israel Electric Corporation said power supply would "effectively be reduced on two lines out of 10 every day, until the reduction applies to all 10 lines".

- Total collapse -

The Gaza Strip is home to some two million people, more than three-quarters of whom the United Nations says depend on humanitarian aid.

This file photo taken on June 11, 2017 shows a Palestinian street vendor standing behind his stall in front of the beach in Gaza City during a power outage

The power reductions come despite stark warnings of the humanitarian implications for Gazan civilians, who already suffer from critical shortages of power -- with most homes receiving only a few hours even before the cut.

Israeli human rights group Gisha said in a statement on Monday that by reducing supplies "Israel is knowingly aggravating an already dangerous situation in which the strip is teetering on the verge of a humanitarian crisis."

The vast majority of residents are Muslim and are currently observing the holy fasting month of Ramadan.

Robert Piper, UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, warned last week that the Palestinians were being "held hostage to this longstanding internal Palestinian dispute."

"A further increase in the length of blackouts is likely to lead to a total collapse of basic services, including critical functions in the health, water and sanitation sectors."

Hamas last fought Israel in 2014 and analysts have warned the power reduction could prompt the Islamist group to spark another round of conflict.

In a statement Wednesday, Hamas said Israel and Abbas were jointly responsible for the "catastrophic consequences" of the reduction.

The statement did not mention war, but called the measures "dangerous".

Hamas is considered to be a terrorist group by Israel, the European Union and the United States.
Syria's war has killed more than 320,000 people

Syria's war has spiralled into a complex multi-sided conflict since it began with anti-government protests in March 2011, drawing in regional and international powers including the United States and Russia.

Here is a breakdown of the forces involved in the war, which has killed over 320,000 people:

- Regime and allies -

Syria's 300,000-strong pre-war army has been halved by deaths, defections and draft-dodging.

It is bolstered by up to 200,000 irregulars and as many as 8,000 men from Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement as well as Iranian, Iraqi and Afghan fighters.

Regime backer Russia began an air campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad in September 2015, helping Damascus recapture key areas including second city Aleppo.

Iran has also given Assad major financial and military support.

The government now holds around half of the country.

- Rebels -

Syria's opposition comprises multiple factions including moderate rebels and Islamist groups.

Estimates of total opposition forces range from tens of thousands up to around 100,000.

Early in the uprising, rebels coalesced under the banner of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), but the opposition has since splintered.

One of the most powerful factions is Ahrar al-Sham, which espouses a hardline Islamist ideology and is strong in Idlib province.

Another leading Islamist rebel group, Jaish al-Islam (Army of Islam), is active around Damascus.

Rebels who once controlled large areas now only hold around 12 percent of the country, according to Syrian geography expert Fabrice Balanche.

That includes areas where they are allied with the jihadist Fateh al-Sham Front.

Around 12.5 percent of Syria's remaining population lives in rebel-held territory.

- Jihadists -

Two major rival jihadist forces operate in Syria: the Islamic State group and former Al-Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham Front.

IS emerged from wars in Syria and Iraq to seize swathes of both countries in mid-2014.

It declared an Islamic "caliphate", committed widespread atrocities and carried out or inspired deadly attacks around the world.

Since then, IS has suffered major losses under pressure from an air war by a US-led coalition.

It holds around 20 percent of Syrian territory, though that is rapidly shrinking as regime forces and a US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters advance against it.

Fateh al-Sham Front split in July 2016 from Al-Qaeda and has been close to Ahrar al-Sham since 2015, though infighting has also erupted between the two factions.

- The Kurds -

Syria's Kurds have largely avoided the conflict between the government and armed opposition, carving out a semi-autonomous region in northern and northeastern Syria.

Their People's Protection Units (YPG) militia became a key partner of the US-led coalition fighting IS and forms the backbone of the US-backed Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The YPG controls about 20 percent of Syrian territory but some three-quarters of the northern border with Turkey.

Over two million people live in Kurdish-held Syrian territory.

The SDF began an operation to capture IS stronghold Raqa in November 2016, entering the city in June with US-led coalition support.

Turkey began an offensive into Syria in August 2016 against both IS and the YPG, which Ankara regards as the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) which has waged a 33-year insurrection inside Turkey.

- Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar -

Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey have provided military and financial support to rebels fighting Assad, who belongs to the minority Alawite sect linked to Shiite Islam.

Long accused of turning a blind eye to jihadist activity along its southern border, Turkey has joined the US-led coalition fighting IS and deployed troops to battle the group in northern Syria.

Although they support opposing sides, Ankara and Moscow have worked closely in recent months to reach a political solution to the conflict.

- International coalition -

A US-led coalition has targeted IS and other jihadists in Syria with air strikes since 2014.

The coalition includes Britain, France, Saudi Arabia and Turkey along with Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates.

It is a key backer of the SDF advance on Raqa, but has been drawn into clashes with regime forces also advancing on the city since early June.

On June 18, a US warplane downed a Syrian fighter jet that had allegedly targeted SDF fighters south of Raqa.

That followed several incidents in which US forces targeted pro-regime fighters who approached a base near the Iraqi border where the US trains anti-IS forces.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi

Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi arrived in Saudi Arabia Monday on a tour that will also take him to Riyadh's rival Iran and to Kuwait.

His visit comes with the Gulf region in turmoil after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other allies cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago.

They accuse Doha of supporting extremist groups, including some backed by Iran, "that aim to destabilise the region".

Kuwait, which did not follow its neighbours in severing diplomatic relations with Qatar, has been trying to mediate.

Abadi is to hold talks with Saudi King Salman, Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Iranian president Hassan Rouhani during his tour of the region.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef greeted Abadi when he landed in the Red Sea city of Jeddah for the one-day visit, state media reported.

Abadi, from his country's largest Shiite political bloc, arrives at a time of heightened tensions between Sunni-ruled Saudi Arabia and its Shiite-dominated rival Iran.

Saudi Arabia cut ties with Iran early last year after years of strained relations.

Riyadh has long expressed concern about Iran's "interference" in the region, including through Iraq's paramilitary Hashed al-Shaabi which has played a major role in reclaiming parts of Iraq seized by the Islamic State group.

Gulf states are also reported to have been angered by a ransom allegedly paid by Doha to Tehran-linked militias earlier this year to secure the release of a hunting party, including members of the Qatari royal family, kidnapped in southern Iraq.

Abadi has supported efforts to improve strained Baghdad-Riyadh ties but the road to normalisation has been rocky.

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir travelled to Baghdad in February for talks with Abadi, on the first visit of its kind since 2003.

In 2016, Thamer al-Sabhan became the first Saudi ambassador to Iraq in a quarter century, after ties were cut following ex-president Saddam Hussein's 1990 invasion of Kuwait.

But he left amid controversy the same year.

Although Saudi Arabia supports the fight against IS Sunni jihadists some countries, including Iraq, have argued it needs to do more to help defeat the extremists and their ideology.
Teodorin Obiang, seen here in 2013, is known for his taste in supercars, luxury homes and bespoke suits

A lawyer for the free-spending son of Equatorial Guinea's longtime leader on Monday called for a new postponement of his high-profile Paris trial for corruption.

As Teodorin Obiang's trial resumed after a six-month pause, his lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny requested a fresh delay pending the outcome of an appeal to the International Court of Justice to scrap the proceedings.

The tiny oil- and timber-rich west African nation questions France's right to put the president's son and current vice-president on trial, saying it violates his diplomatic immunity.

The 47-year-old, known for his taste for supercars, luxury homes and bespoke suits, is charged with plundering Equatorial Guinea's coffers to fund his jetset lifestyle in France.

He is suspected of using more than 100 million euros ($112 million) of state money -- proceeds of corruption and embezzlement, prosecutors allege -- to buy a six-storey mansion on Avenue Foch, one of the swankiest streets in Paris, as well as a collection of Italian supercars.

Obiang, who once again did not appear in court, denies the charges, saying the money came from legitimate sources.

When hearings began six months ago, the trial was postponed to give the defence more time to prepare its case.

- Paris luxury, poverty at home -

Speaking on Monday, Marsigny said: "This trial cannot take place."

Teodorin Obiang is accused of using the proceeds of corruption and embezzlement to buy a six-storey mansion on Avenue Foch, one of the swankiest streets in Paris which leads to the Arc de Triomphe

In 2012, French authorities swooped on the Avenue Foch mansion, seizing it along with a fleet of luxury cars including two Bugatti Veyrons and a Rolls-Royce Phantom.

But in December, the ICJ -- the UN's top court -- ordered France to "take all measures at its disposal" to ensure that the mansion, which Equatorial Guinea has described as a diplomatic mission, be treated the same as all other diplomatic locations under the Geneva Convention.

France disputes that claim.

If convicted on the charges of corruption, embezzlement, misuse of public funds and breach of trust, Obiang faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 50 million euros.

The trial, scheduled to close July 6, is the first arising from an unprecedented investigation into the French assets of a trio of African leaders accused of leading a life of luxury abroad while their citizens live in poverty.

It sets a precedent for France which has long turned a blind eye to African dictators parking ill-gotten gains in Parisian real estate and luxury products.
Darwin Martinez Torres, 22, has been charged with murdering 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen in Sterling, Virginia

A tight-knit Muslim community in the suburbs of Washington was in shock Monday after a 17-year-old girl was apparently beaten to death and dumped in a pond following late-night prayers at the local mosque.

Police in Fairfax County, Virginia, have charged a 22-year-old local man, Darwin Martinez Torres, with the teenager's killing but said it was an apparent road rage incident.

Authorities are "NOT investigating this murder as a hate crime," police said on Twitter.

Social media lit up with anger over the crime, which follows a series of deadly attacks on Muslims in North America.

While the teen has yet to be officially named by police, friends and worshippers at the mosque in Sterling, known as the All Dulles Area Muslim Society, identified her as Nabra Hassanen, from the nearby community of Reston.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday as a group of young Muslims were walking back from the town center plaza after midnight prayers at the mosque, according to accounts by police and worshippers.

"A man who appeared to be drunk got out of his car with a bat," one of the youths, Tasneem Khan, wrote on social media.

All of the youths with the exception of Hassanen managed to run back to the mosque upon seeing the assailant.

The police department said "this tragic case appears to be the result of a road rage incident involving the suspect, who was driving and who is now charged with murder, and a group of teenagers... walking and riding bikes in and along a roadway."

The statement appealed for "patience" as an autopsy and inquiry were being conducted.

Fairfax County police spokesman Don Gotthardt told AFP the assault is not being treated as a hate crime because "there is no information connecting the victim's faith or religion to the crime."

Still, on Twitter, many people expressed incredulity.

"Anyone want to explain to me why this isn't being investigated as a hate crime? I am disgusted and so very saddened by this," wrote a user with the handle @MaisieRae.

"We need strong leaders in this country condemning hate crimes or we need new leaders who will," added @paulshread.

- Last days of Ramadan -

A vigil for the slain girl has been scheduled for Wednesday evening in Reston.

The attack occurred during the waning days of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when observant Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. In North America, Ramadan is due to end with Eid al-Fitr celebrations starting Saturday.

The teens had apparently gone out to eat at a restaurant before starting their fast at sunrise. Hassanen was reported missing around 4 am and her remains were found at a nearby pond around 3 pm.

Police would not immediately confirm the exact manner of her death, pending a review by the chief medical examiner.

A widely distributed Snapchat photographic montage showed Hassanen smiling, sporting a Muslim veil as well as a golden nose ring.

Last month, two men were fatally stabbed in Portland, Oregon as they intervened to stop a man hurling anti-Muslim slurs at two teenage girls, one of whom was wearing a hijab. Another man who tried to halt the attack was also wounded.

In Quebec, six worshippers were shot dead in an attack on a mosque in January.
Australia's Nick Kyrgios reacts after slipping against Donald Young of the US in their men's singles first round match at Queen's Club in west London on June 19, 2017

Nick Kyrgios insists he will play through the pain barrier to keep his Wimbledon dream alive after the Australian star was forced to retire from his Queen's Club first-round clash against Donald Young.

Kyrgios needed lengthy treatment on his left hip after taking a nasty tumble behind the baseline while stretching to make a shot in the ninth game of the first set on Monday.

The world number 20 decided to keep playing, but he was clearly affected by the injury and, after Young won the first-set tie-break 7-3, Kyrgios trudged to the net to withdraw from the Wimbledon warm-up event.

The 22-year-old admitted his fall on the slick court had aggravated the same hip injury that troubled him during his French Open second-round exit to Kevin Anderson.

But Kyrgios, who has also been bothered by shoulder problems in recent months, is still determined to compete at Wimbledon, which gets underway on July 3.

"I'd play Wimbledon if I was injured pretty bad, anyway. I'm here. I don't really have time to go home or anything. Yeah, I'll be playing, for sure," Kyrgios said.

"Obviously my main goal is to play well at Wimbledon, so I'm going to try and get it better and rehab it and hopefully it settles down. I'm sure it will."

Australia's Nick Kyrgios (L) shakes hands with US player Donald Young after having to retire during their men's singles first round match at Queen's Club in west London on June 19, 2017

Kyrgios was given anti-inflammatories when he came off court, but he is still waiting to see if a scan is necessary.

"I felt a sharp pain, pretty much everything I was feeling a month ago. It's not great at the moment," he said.

"I have been playing with a sore hip for a long time.

"There are worse things in the world than a guy slipping playing tennis. I'm sure I'll live."

Asked what he'd do while he waits for the pain to subside, Kyrgios joked he'd be "in the Dog and Fox", a pub near his house in Wimbledon.

- Painful -

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga got back on track after his French Open nightmare as the world number 10 eased to a 6-2, 6-2 win over Adrian Mannarino.

Tsonga's strong start to his grass-court campaign was the perfect way to erase the painful memory of an embarrassing first-round exit against unheralded Argentine Renzo Olivo on the clay at Roland Garros.

"For me it was really important to have a victory. On clay it was difficult. I didn't play really well in Roland Garros," said Tsonga, who was runner-up at Queen's in 2011.

France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in action against compatriot Adrian Mannarino in the first round at the Queen's Club in London on June 19, 2017

"I had the good sense to have a grass court at my house, so I just practice and prepare this grass season, which is a good surface for me."

Fifth seed Tsonga will play Gilles Muller or Nikoloz Basilashvili in the second round.

Former Wimbledon finalist Tomas Berdych halted his slump with a 7-5, 6-3 victory over Belgium's Steve Darcis.

Berdych, the world number 14, crashed out in the French Open second round to continue a disappointing year in which he has gone without a trophy and reached only one final.

The Czech veteran takes on Britain's Kyle Edmund or Canadian qualifier Denis Shapovalov in the second round.

Grigor Dimitrov, the Bulgarian world number 11, cruised into the second round with a 6-3, 6-1 win against Ryan Harrison of the United States.

Dimitrov, the only player other than reigning champion Andy Murray to win the Queen's title in the last four years, faces French qualifier Julien Benneteau or British wild card James Ward in the last 16.
Benin President Patrice Talon's month-long absence prompted speculation about his health

Benin President Patrice Talon underwenttwo surgeries during a prolonged stay in Paris, one procedure due to doctors finding a lesion in his prostate, his office said Monday.

The admission comes weeks after Talon's absence, which lasted nearly a month, had been a hot topic in the tiny West African nation, prompting the government to deny rumours that he was ill.

"During his last health check, a lesion was found at an early stage in his prostate," the president's office said in a statement, but the operation allowed him to recover "without the use of chemotherapy or radiation".

The statement made no mention of the word cancer.

The 59-year-old president returned to Benin on Sunday with his office releasing the statement following a special cabinet meeting.

Talon underwent a second operation to his digestive system, the statement added, when complications arose after the first operation. The second surgery "also went well," it said.

Talon "has completely recovered" and "is fully exercising his constitutional duties," according to his office, which said an ordinary cabinet meeting is scheduled for Wednesday.

The statement on Monday was a rare example of an African leader publicly revealing health details, but his office said it was important for him to inform his fellow countrymen about the state of his health.

The health of presidents in Africa remains a taboo subject on the continent. Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari has spent much of his time in London since the beginning of the year for health reasons that have not been publicly disclosed.

Because of his health, Talon missed the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) summit held in Liberia on June 4 and a cabinet meeting of his senior ministers on May 31.
FILER Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani at a press conference in Doha on June 8, 2017

Qatar on Monday demanded neighbouring states lift their "blockade" of the emirate as a pre-condition for crisis talks, even as the United Arab Emirates warned its isolation could last years.

Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani called measures imposed against Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and others "an act of aggression".

"We have to make it very clear for everyone, negotiations must be done in a civilised way and should have a solid basis and not under pressure or under blockade," he told reporters in Doha.

"Qatar under blockade -- there is no negotiation. They have to lift the blockade," said Sheikh Mohammed.

"Until now we didn't see any progress about lifting the blockade, which is the pre-condition for anything to move forward."

On June 5, Saudi Arabia and its allies cut all diplomatic ties with Qatar, pulling their ambassadors from the gas-rich emirate and giving its citizens a two-week deadline to leave their territory.

The measures also included closing Qatar's only land border, banning its planes from using their airspace and barring Qatari nationals from transiting through their airports.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain and others accuse Qatar of supporting and funding "terrorism" and of working with regional rival Iran, charges Doha firmly denies.

Asked if the ultimate aim of the Gulf countries was to enforce regime change, the foreign minister replied: "No one is in a position of imposing regime change in this country.

"Our system here is based on a consensus between the people and its ruler."

- 'Isolation could take years' -

Sheikh Mohammed's demand came as a UAE state minister warned Qatar's diplomatic isolation could "last years".

"We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate," state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists in Paris. "This isolation can take years."

Gargash said that while Qatar's rivals were "betting on time", a solution could not be brokered until it abandoned its support for "extremist Islamists".

"They have built a sophisticated podium for jihadism and Islamic extremism," he said.

"They support groups linked to Al-Qaeda in Syria, Libya... and in Yemen.

"This state is weaponising jihadists and Islamists, it is using this as a weapon of influence," he added.

Sheikh Mohammed said Qatar had not received any demands from the Gulf states or from countries seeking a diplomatic solution, including Kuwait, the United States, France and Britain, as the conflict dragged into its third week.

"Why they didn't submit their demands yet? For us, there is no clear answer for this," he said.

"But what we have seen until now, there is no solid ground for these demands, that's why they didn't submit their demands yet."

The foreign minister said the economic impact on Qatar had so far proved to be minimal, but added: "We are not claiming we are living in a perfect condition."

On Monday, Yousuf Mohamed al-Jaida, chief executive of the Qatar Financial Centre, said the "blockade" had put at risk business deals worth $2 billion in Arab countries that have cut ties with Doha.

- 'Worrying crisis' -

The Gulf political crisis has also affected countries outside the region.

"France, UK or the United States -- they are strong allies of Qatar and we have a great deal of cooperation together in terms of military, defence, security, economically," said Sheikh Mohammed.

"So a blockade on Qatar and measures being taken against Qatar in this way is affecting the interests of those countries as well, directly."

Concern over the ongoing crisis also surfaced at a meeting of European Union foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Monday, who said "the depth of the crisis is more worrying than at any time before".

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini called for "de-escalation" and encouraged "all Gulf countries to engage in political dialogue without pre-conditions".

Experts fear the crisis could draw in other countries. Adding to the growing tensions, Qatar announced Monday it had begun joint military exercises with the Turkish army.

Amnesty International has flagged the humanitarian cost of the crisis, warning it was "spreading fear" across the region.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain had given their citizens a June 19 deadline to leave Qatar, a deadline which came into force on Monday.
June 19, 1962

Professor Yu-Kang Mao of Taiwan is spending four days in Cayuga County to study extension service methods. He has just completed two years of studies at Cornell University, where he received a masters degree in Agricultural Economics.

He will return to Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, or Formosa as it was formerly called, to teach at the National Taiwan University, where he received his bachelor's degree in agriculture and has held a teaching position previously.

Prof. Mao said that he was specially interested in extension work. He said: "In Taiwan we have the theory and research on one side and the farmers on the other, but there is no link between them. I feel that such a bridge is necessary and hope that we can establish it in Taiwan."

Taiwan, the seat of the Nationalist Chinese Government, is a sub-tropical island the size of Massachusetts, with a population of 11 million. About 70 per cent of the population is employed in agriculture, with the average size of a farm no more than 2.5 acres.

Cultivation of the land is very intensive, with rice and sugar cane the main crops. "Meat is supplied in limited quantities by pigs, poultry and fish," said Prof. Mao. "Our people do not like to eat beef, and there is only a limited supply of milk. We have a lot of fruit, including bananas and pineapple. Two-thirds of our country is mountainous. I think it resembles China quite a lot."

Prof. Mao studied at Cornell under the auspices of the Council of Economic and Cultural Affairs, which is supported by the Rockefeller Foundation. He said that he had enjoyed his stay in America very much, especially the ice cream.

While in Cayuga County he will study the "Farm and Home Management Program" of the extension service. He will observe the work done by extension service agents George Monroe and Mrs. Robert (Marjorie) White. Under the management program, all aspects of management in the family size farm are analyzed, not only purely farm problems, but home management problems as well.

Cayuga County has pioneered in this service, and Prof. Mao said that he hoped such a program could be established in his homeland.

Agricultural Extension Service Agent Francis J. Veuillemot, who is host to Prof. Mao, said that he expected more foreign visitors next week. A team of agricultural agents from Israel, Mrs. Peled and M.S. Herr, will study the family's approach to farming here and will stay one and two weeks respectively.
An Iranian military helicopter flies over Revolutionary Guards' fast boats during naval exercises in the Gulf in 2010

Saudi Arabia said on Monday that it captured three Iranian Revolutionary Guards aboard an explosive-laden boat heading to an oil platform in the Gulf, further ratcheting up tensions in the region.

Iran said the three people detained were fishermen.

The Saudi statement came three days after it said the incident occurred in the Marjan oil field, and two days after Iran accused the Saudis of shooting one of its fishermen in the Gulf waters which divide their two countries.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran were already strained but escalated after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and other allies cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago.

They accuse Doha of supporting extremist groups, including some backed by Iran, "that aim to destabilise the region".

Last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif called for a permanent mechanism in the Gulf to resolve crises like the diplomatic and economic isolation of Qatar.

The three guards "are now being questioned by Saudi authorities," the information and culture ministry said in its statement.

"It is clear this was intended to be a terrorist act in Saudi territorial waters designed to cause severe damage to people and property," the ministry said.

In Iran, Majid Aghababaie, head of border affairs at the interior ministry, said the three detained were fishermen from the southern Iranian port of Bushehr.

"There is no proof that they are military personnel," he said, in remarks carried by the ILNA news agency.

Saudi Arabia has said it seized weapons from a boat captured in the Marjan field at about 8:30 pm on Friday.

It said the navy fired warning shots when three small boats entered Saudi territorial waters and headed at high speed towards the platforms.

That statement made no mention of explosives and did not detail what type of weapons were found, though it said they were for "subversive purposes".

- Iraq, Sudan leaders visiting -

That statement also made no mention of arrests but said the boats bore "red and white flags". Two of the boats got away, it said.

On Saturday, Iran accused the Saudi coastguard of killing one of its fishermen after two fishing boats may have strayed into Saudi waters.

Saudi Arabia regularly accuses Shiite-dominated Iran of interfering in Arab countries, and has suggested it is linked to instability in the kingdom's east, where minority Shiites live.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps in turn has accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in June 7 attacks in Tehran, when gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Seventeen people were killed in the attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

Saudi Arabia's announcement of the Guards' capture coincided with visits to the kingdom by Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, and Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir.

Saudi Arabia has been trying to cement its ties throughout the Muslim world against the backdrop of higher tensions with its Iranian rival.
"Star Wars" actress Carrie Fisher, shown here in 2013, suffered a fatal mid-air heart attack last December

Carrie Fisher had a cocktail of drugs including cocaine and ecstasy in her system when she suffered a fatal mid-air heart attack, a coroner's report revealed Monday.

The "Star Wars" actress -- who catapulted to stardom as the space epic's rebel warrior Princess Leia -- was rushed to hospital in Los Angeles on December 23 after collapsing on a flight from London and was pronounced dead four days later.

There were quantities of alcohol and opiates in her system, according to the toxicology report, which suggested "exposure to heroin, but that the dose and time of exposure cannot be pinpointed."

Tests revealed the cocaine would have been taken within the previous three days, according to the report, which gave the cause of death as sleep apnea -- a breathing disorder -- and "other undetermined factors" including heart disease and "multiple drug intake."

They also showed "remote exposure" to the recreational drug MDMA, better known in its pill form as ecstasy.

A press release from the coroner's office on Friday indicated that drugs were found in 60-year-old Fisher's system, but it did not go into detail.

"Ms. Fisher suffered what appeared to be a cardiac arrest on the airplane, accompanied by vomiting and with a history of sleep apnea," the final report stated.

"Based on the available toxicological information, we cannot establish the significance of the multiple substances that were detected in Ms. Fisher's blood and tissue, with regard to the cause of death."

Fisher's daughter, Billie Lourd, said in a statement released to celebrity magazine People on Friday her mother had "battled drug addiction and mental illness her entire life" and "ultimately died of it."

- Addiction -

Carrie Fisher was back in the spotlight after reprising her iconic role as Princess Leia in 2015's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and will appear for a final time as Leia in "The Last Jedi," due for release in December

Born in Los Angeles in October 1956, the daughter of actress Debbie Reynolds and singer Eddie Fisher became an international star with the release of "Star Wars" in 1977, followed by two sequels.

The space saga is now part of pop culture legend and a worldwide fan favorite. Fisher was back in the spotlight after reprising her iconic role in 2015's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and will appear for a final time as Leia in "The Last Jedi," due for release in December.

The early 1980s were marked by problems with alcohol, drugs and depression for Fisher, who became known for her searingly honest semi-autobiographical writing.

She turned her best-selling debut "Postcards from the Edge" into a film of the same name in 1990 starring Meryl Streep and Shirley MacLaine.

Over the years she gave various interviews about her diagnosis of bipolar disorder and addiction to prescription drugs and cocaine, which she admitted using on the set of "The Empire Strikes Back" (1980).

Asked by Vanity Fair in 2006 how she persuaded "Star Wars" director George Lucas to give her the part of Princess Leia, she said: "I slept with some nerd. I hope it was George."

She also discussed being treated with electroconvulsive therapy, in which small electric currents are passed through the brain, to trigger brief seizures and treat depression.

Fisher was returning from the London leg of a tour promoting her headline-grabbing memoir "The Princess Diarist" when she collapsed 15 minutes before landing in Los Angeles, where paramedics and hospital staff were unable to revive her.

Reynolds, who was 84, suffered a fatal stroke the day after her daughter's death.
Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Joseph Dunford says he is working to re-open the incident-prevention phone hotline between the US and Russia

The United States wants to re-establish a military hotline that Russia said it had severed after an American jet shot down a Syrian regime warplane, the top US general said Monday.

The so-called "deconfliction" line has been a vital tool in protecting both sides' forces as they conduct separate campaigns in Syria's crowded battlespace.

"We will work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to re-establish deconfliction," said General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, referring to the special communications channel.

Russia's defense ministry earlier said it would halt its use of the incident-prevention hotline after US forces downed a Syrian jet, though Dunford noted it had remained in use "over the last few hours."

Russia also warned that its air defense systems would begin tracking all US-led coalition aircraft in central Syria, prompting the Pentagon to move some of its planes.

"We have taken prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria so as to continue targeting ISIS forces while ensuring the safety of our aircrew given known threats in the battlespace," Pentagon spokesman Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway said, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer said "we are going to do what we can to protect our interests," adding that the United States would keep an open line of communication with the Russians.

Moscow has previously threatened to scrap the deconfliction line, after an April 7 US cruise missile strike on a Syrian regime airbase in retaliation for a suspected chemical weapons attack against civilians.

The line has been a lifesaving -- albeit imperfect -- tool since it was set up soon after Russia entered Syria's civil war in late 2015 to prop up President Bashar al-Assad.

The hotline was established between US officers monitoring the war from an operations center at a base in Qatar and their Russian counterparts operating in Syria.

If Moscow does indeed abandon the hotline, it could dramatically raise the risk to pilots and ground forces on all sides.
A picture taken on June 19, 2017 shows the Israeli settlement of Hashmonaim, west of Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank

Building starts on settler homes in the Israeli-occupied West Bank soared by 70 percent in the year to March 2017, data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics showed Monday.

Since April 2016, work began on 2,758 dwellings, compared to 1,619 during the previous 12 months.

The figures do not include Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem which the Jewish state considers an integral part of its "indivisible capital".

Settlement watchdog Peace Now said the settlement boom coincided with a 2.5-percent drop in construction starts inside Israel.

"Instead of working to solve the Israeli housing crisis, the government prioritises a radical minority living beyond the boundaries of the state," it said.

"Such construction continues to distance us from the only way to end the Israeli Palestinian conflict - a two-state solution."

More than 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the West Bank, including east Jerusalem, that are seen as a major obstacle to peace between Israel and the Palestinians.

They live alongside some three million Palestinians.

Earlier this month, Israel green-lighted plans for more than 3,000 settler homes.

The projects are at various stages in the planning process and the units are located in a number of settlements across the West Bank.

US President Donald Trump is seeking to restart peace negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians -- stalled since talks collapsed in 2014.

Trump has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to hold back on settlement building as he seeks to build momentum.

Netanyahu, however, faces political pressure from the settler movement, which wields heavy influence in his right-wing governing coalition.

"There was not and will not be a better government for settlement than our government," he told senior members of his Likud party on Monday.

"We build in all parts of the country, we do it with determination, methodically and wisely," he said.
Then US Attorney General John Ashcroft and now former FBI director Robert Mueller were among senior officials involved in controversial security measures taken following the September 11 attacks in 2001

The US Supreme Court ruled Monday that senior officials from president George W. Bush's administration cannot be held responsible for abuses against Muslim immigrants and others held in the frantic response to the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The 4-2 decision marked a victory for ex-attorney general John Ashcroft and former FBI director Robert Mueller, who have claimed along with other Bush era officials that they have immunity from prosecution.

With the court's ruling -- which saw two justices recuse themselves and another skip the vote -- Ashcroft and Mueller also avoided being held personally liable.

The court was not making a decision on the prisoners' treatment but rather as to whether the Bush officials should be granted legal protection from lawsuits and damages related to detention policies.

"The risk of personal damages liability is more likely to cause an official to second-guess difficult but necessary decisions concerning national-security policy," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in his majority opinion.

If the court had held the officials liable, he added, "high officers who face personal liability for damages might refrain from taking urgent and lawful action in a time of crisis."

After the deadly airliner attacks on New York and Washington, authorities arrested and detained more than 750 people on immigration charges, sometimes based on a simple tip to police.

The six plaintiffs were among non-US citizens living in the United States who were held without bail until cleared in the Brooklyn borough of New York.

Five of the men, all of Arab or South Asian descent, were Muslim. They said they were targeted because they were Muslim or Arab, and for no reasonable cause.

The group also complained of harsh detention conditions, held for 23 hours a day in small, constantly lit cells with little opportunity for exercise or recreation and no access to basic hygiene products such as soap or a toothbrush.

They said they were often strip-searched, largely barred from communications with the outside world and subjected to "physical and verbal abuse" by guards, who they said slammed detainees into walls, twisted their limbs, broke their bones and called them terrorists.

Some were held in these conditions for up to eight months after 9/11. They were deported from the United States after their release.

"If the facts alleged in the complaint are true, then what happened to respondents in the days following September 11 was tragic," the court's ruling read.

"Nothing in this opinion should be read to condone the treatment to which they contend they were subjected."

It left open the possibility for the men to challenge their detention conditions by proving their case against the prison warden.

- Allowing 'rampant' discrimination? -

Robert Mueller, former FBI director, is now a special counsel leading a probe into Russia's alleged meddling in the 2016 US presidential election

Justices Stephen Breyer and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, of the court's liberal wing, dissented.

"History tells us of far too many instances where the executive or legislative branch took actions during time of war that, on later examination, turned out unnecessarily and unreasonably to have deprived American citizens of basic constitutional rights," Breyer warned in the dissent he penned.

"In wartime as well as in peacetime, it is important, in a civilized society, that the judicial branch of the nation's government stand ready to afford a remedy for the most flagrant and patently unjustified, unconstitutional abuses of official power, he added, citing previous court decisions.

Rachel Meeropol, a lawyer for the Center for Constitutional Rights who represented the detainees, said she was "very disappointed" with the ruling.

"The Court's decision allows for high-level officials to violate the Constitution without fear of personal accountability, a dangerous message in this time of rampant state-sponsored discrimination against Muslim and immigrant communities," she said.

Mueller, who led the FBI from 2001-2013, has recently been named special counsel to oversee a massive probe into claims of Russian collusion with President Donald Trump's campaign to tip the 2016 elections in his favor.
Steven Koutsis, the top US envoy in Sudan, disembarks a UN helicopter after landing in the war-torn town of Golo in the thickly forested mountainous area of Jebel Marra in central Darfur on June 19, 2017

The top US envoy in Sudan pushed Monday for more access to deliver humanitarian aid to Golo as he visited the former rebel stronghold in war-torn Darfur under tight security.

US charge d'affaires Steven Koutsis was in Golo as part of a tour to assess the security situation in Darfur as the United Nations prepares to downsize its 17,000-strong peacekeeping force.

Koutsis's visit to the town surrounded by the thickly forested mountains of Jebel Marra comes weeks before President Donald Trump's administration decides whether to permanently lift a two-decades old US trade embargo on Sudan.

"Golo is a strategic area for providing humanitarian assistance," he told officials and security officers he met in a tightly secured building, an AFP correspondent reported from the venue.

Khartoum restricts the access of international media to Darfur and particularly to Jebel Marra, which foreign media have been unable to visit for years.

"That is why we are here to understand better what is needed to bring more assistance here," Koutsis said.

Aid workers have complained that delivering aid to Golo and other parts of Jebel Marra has been extremely difficult given the terrain and the severe restrictions imposed by the Sudanese authorities.

They say a road journey to Golo is a challenging experience in itself, with several hours needed to reach the town given its location in the hilly areas of central Darfur.

The Sudan Liberation Army - Abdul Wahid group (SLA/AW) were attracted to Golo because of the region's wealth of natural resources, its fertile ground and mountainous terrain.

The main rebel group of Jebel Marra turned Golo into their stronghold until it came under government control last year.

- Pleas for aid -

A 90-minute helicopter flight brought Koutsis to Golo, where he was welcomed by cheering children who poured out from their homes to a makeshift helipad where the chopper landed.

Children ran behind his convoy of armoured vehicles as it travelled down a rocky road while groups of women watched the motorcade from the street.

The impact of the fighting on Jebel Marra is clear in Golo.

The town is rife with half-built brick homes damaged in the fighting, muddy roads and queues of women and children waiting to collect water in plastic cans from hand pumps.

An official from Sudan Humanitarian Commission told Koutsis that Golo needed better infrastructure, including well-built schools, roads and healthcare facilities.

"Many classes are held in school rooms without roofs," said Abdo Aldeem.

Workers at Golo's only hospital say they are struggling to deal with malnutrition among children and provide better care for pregnant women.

Several children suffering from severe malnutrition are being treated at the hospital, the AFP correspondent accompanying Koutsis reported. The walls of the hospital still had pro-rebel graffiti.

"Only yesterday a child died," a UNICEF worker said.

Jebel Marra saw pitched battles last year between government forces and the SLA/AW group, which Khartoum accuses of ambushing military convoys and attacking civilians.

In September, Amnesty International accused Sudanese forces of carrying out chemical attacks during military operation against the rebel group.

- 'Big assistance' -

A UN peacekeeper stands guard as crowds of children and villagers gather to welcome Steven Koutsis, the top US envoy in Sudan, in the war-torn town of Golo on June 19, 2017

Sudanese officials including President Omar al-Bashir have denied these charges.

Tens of thousands of people were displaced in Jebel Marra in last year's fighting, the United Nations says.

Deadly conflict broke out in Darfur in 2003 when ethnic minority groups took up arms against Bashir's Arab-dominated government, which launched a brutal counter-insurgency.

At least 300,000 people have since been killed and 2.5 million displaced in Darfur, the UN says.

Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court on alleged war crimes and genocide charges related to Darfur, which he denies.

On Monday, Koutsis also pushed for a strong presence of UN peacekeeping forces in Golo and other parts of Jebel Marra -- an area where UN forces are still not deployed.

He said that although UNAMID is expected to be restructured, its forces need to be present in Jebel Marra.

"We need to have UNAMID present here... to offer big assistance to the local region," he said.

Access for delivering humanitarian aid and ensuring security in Darfur are key conditions insisted by Washington in order to lift sanctions imposed on Sudan in 1997.

The sanctions were imposed over Khartoum's alleged support for Islamist groups.

Although Washington believes Khartoum's terror ties have ebbed, it has kept sanctions in place because of the scorched-earth tactics it has used against ethnic minority rebels in Darfur.
L-R: National Convergence Kwa Na Kwa party general secretary Bertin Bea, Republic of Central Africa foreign minister Charles Armel Doubaned and Central African president political advisor George Isidore Alphonse Dibert pose on June 19, 2017 in Rome

The Central African Republic's government on Monday signed an "immediate ceasefire" deal with rebel groups at a meeting in Rome aimed at ending violence in the strife-torn country.

The accord, negotiated over five days, was hailed as a precious chance to stabilise one of the world's most volatile and poorest countries.

Under it, armed groups will be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks and blockades, and their members will be brought into the country's armed forces.

"We commit to the immediate implementation by political-military groups of a country-wide ceasefire, to be monitored by the international community, as a fundamental step on the way to definitive peace," the deal read.

"The government undertakes to ensure military groups are represented at all levels" and are "recognised as part of the reconstruction efforts", it said.

The accord was brokered by the Community of Sant'Egidio, a group rooted in the Catholic Church that promotes dialogue with other religions and non-believers. It has been an active mediator in many African conflicts.

The rebel groups pledged to ensure "the free movement of people and goods by removing illegal barriers as an immediate consequence of the ceasefire".

- State authority -

The signatories also committed to "restoring the (authority of the) state across the national territory."

One of the world's poorest nations, CAR has been struggling to recover from a civil war between Muslim and Christian militias that started in 2013 when President Francois Bozize was overthrown by a coalition of Muslim-majority rebel groups called the Seleka.

They in turn were ousted by a military intervention led by former colonial ruler France.

Those events sparked the bloodiest sectarian violence in the country's history as mainly Christian militias sought revenge.

Christians, who account for about 80 percent of the population, organised vigilante units dubbed "anti-balaka", in reference to the machetes used by the rebels.

The signatories of Monday's agreement included various factions of the Seleka as well as Christian and animist groups.

Members of armed groups will be "integrated" into the country's armed forces, "in line with pre-established criteria" and after an "upgrade," according to the deal.

Sant'Egidio's president Marco Impagliazzo described the accord as "an historic agreement, a deal full of hope".

CAR's foreign minister, Charles Armel Doubane, echoed those remarks, speaking of a "day of hope" for the country.

The UN's special representative on CAR, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga of Gabon, who is also head of the UN's stabilisation force there, attended the talks. Several heads of CAR political parties also took part.

- Mounting concern -

The agreement announced on Monday comes against a backdrop of mounting concern.

Last month, the UN's humanitarian coordination agency OCHA reported on an "alarming" rise in violence, with "clashes (that) have taken an increasingly religious and ethnic connotation,."

It said the number of internally displaced people is now over half a million for the first time since August 2014, while a further 400,000, out of a population of 4.5 million, had fled to neighbouring countries.

The country's armed forces are estimated to number about 8,000, backed by 900 French troops and 10,000 troops and 2,000 civilians serving in a UN force called MINUSCA.

They have stabilised the situation, but around half the country -- which covers almost 623,000 square kilometres (241,000 square miles), a little less than Afghanistan or Chile -- remains outside government control.

"We must ensure that all the parties respect this agreement," MINUSCA spokesman Vladimir Monteiro told AFP Monday.

"We will work with all the partners for the immediate cessation of hostilities so that the violence against the populations ceases," he added.
The sculpture "Hydra and Kali" is seen at the exhibition "Treasures from the Wreck of the Unbelievable" by British artist Damien Hirst at the Pinault Collection in Punta della Dogana and Palazzo Grassi in Venice

New York prosecutors unveiled charges Monday against three men accused of manufacturing and selling $400,000 in fake Damien Hirst prints to dozens of art buyers around the world.

Vincent Lopreto, 52, appeared in court on Monday, 15 days after being released from prison for previously selling knock-off Hirst works online, prosecutors said.

Famed for his stuffed sharks, the 52-year-old Hirst has amassed a fortune as the most commercially successful member of the Young British Artist movement that dominated the British art scene in the 1990s.

Manhattan's district attorney Cyrus Vance also announced grand larceny and scheme to defraud charges against Arizona's Paul Motta, 50 and Marco Saverino, 34.

The defendants faked paperwork to deceive buyers into believing the prints were genuine, stealing $400,000 from victims in New York and as far afield as Britain, Canada, Germany, South Africa, South Korea and Taiwan, prosecutors said.

Two sales were made to an undercover investigator posing as a buyer.

Authorities confiscated tools allegedly used to create the forgeries from Lopreto's apartment in New Orleans, Louisiana, said Vance's office.

Hirst won the Turner Prize in 1995 and went on to attract a huge following that went well beyond the rarefied confines of conceptual art.

He figures regularly on lists of Britain's wealthiest people, thanks partly to a 2008 auction at Sotheby's that saw him cut out gallery middlemen to sell 223 new pieces for 111 million pounds ($141 million at current exchange rates).

Lopreto pleaded guilty in January 2014 to selling forged Hirst prints online.
Italy has registred more than 65,000 migrant arrivals since January, up nearly a fifth from this same time last year

At least 126 migrants were feared dead after their boat sank off the coast of Libya while trying to make the perilous crossing to Europe, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said Monday.

According to four survivors, the migrants left Thursday from Libya but their inflatable boat sank several hours into the journey, IOM spokesman Flavio Di Giacomo said.

The survivors said traffickers intercepted their boat shortly after setting off and stole their engine.

"The boat, which was already overloaded, quickly began taking on water and sank," Di Giacomo said.

The four survivors -- two Sudanese and two Nigerian nationals -- were picked up by Libyan fisherman who handed them over to another migrant boat making the dangerous Mediterranean Sea crossing.

Di Giacomo said the survivors were finally rescued by the Italian coast guard and taken to Sicily along with about a thousand others who have been rescued in recent days.

Italy has registered more than 65,000 migrant arrivals since January, up nearly a fifth from the same period last year.

More than 1,800 people have died attempting the crossing since the start of the year, according to IOM figures.
Senior White House advisor Jared Kushner is often seen standing beside President Donald Trump in the Oval Office or climbing the steps of Marine One but rarely heard beyond the corridors of power

Top White House aide -- and presidential son-in-law -- Jared Kushner is among the most powerful men in America, but few have heard him speak, until now.

His voice is common enough to those working in and around the White House, but Kushner on Monday gave rare public remarks.

In mid-to-high pitch, with long vowels and smooth consonants, the 36-year-old husband of Ivanka Trump for around seven minutes read prepared remarks on technological innovation.

"Together we have set ambitious goals and empowered interagency teams to tackle our objectives. It's working and it's very exciting," he said.

Since joining the administration, Kushner has been mocked by satirists for his monastic quiet.

The Trump impersonator on comedy show Saturday Night Live affectionately described him "a little Jewish Amelie," after the close-lipped and impish star of the eponymous French film.

In the first days of his administration, Trump appeared to believe there was no challenge too confounding, no conflict too intractable for his son-in-law to tackle.

He has been tasked with resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, America's opioid epidemic and injecting the nation's bureaucracy with entrepreneurial spirit.

Kushner is often seen standing beside Trump in the Oval Office or climbing the steps of Marine One but rarely heard beyond the corridors of power in Washington.

Hardline conservatives in the White House have long seen Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner -- also a real estate developer -- as "New York progressives" trying to bend the volatile president to their way of thinking.

Spokesman Sean Spicer on Monday announced that Kushner would soon go to the Middle East on the latest peace drive, meeting leaders Benjamin Netanyahu and Mahmud Abbas.
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University student Otto Warmbier, who had been on a tourist trip to North Korea, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor for removing a political poster from a hotel

Otto Warmbier, the US student released by North Korea in a coma last week after more than a year in detention, has died, his family said Monday.

The 22-year-old, who had suffered severe brain damage, was medically evacuated to the United States on June 13. He died Monday at 2:20 pm (1820 GMT), surrounded by relatives in his home town of Cincinnati, Ohio.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home," his family said in a statement.

"The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible," they added.

Pyongyang said that Warmbier fell into a coma soon after he was sentenced in March of last year for stealing a political poster from a North Korean hotel. The regime claimed the young man fell into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill.

Doctors treating Warmbier said he had suffered extensive tissue loss in all regions of his brain, but showed no signs of physical trauma. Medical tests offered no conclusive evidence as to the cause of his neurological injuries, and no evidence of a prior botulism infection.

They said Warmbier's severe brain injury was most likely -- given his young age -- to have been caused by cardiopulmonary arrest cutting the blood supply to the brain.

Warmbier's father, Fred, lashed out at Kim Jong-Un's authoritarian state last week, telling a news conference, "there is no excuse for any civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and denied him top-notch medical care for so long."

In their statement Monday, Otto's family said they believed he had found a peace of sorts after being flown home.

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable -- almost anguished," they said.

"Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed - he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that," they added.

"We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. We are at peace and at home too."

The university student, who had been on a tourist trip, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor, a punishment the US decried as far out of proportion to his alleged crime, accusing the North of using him as a political pawn.

President Donald Trump had urged the nation to pray for Otto Warmbier, describing his ordeal as a "truly terrible thing."

Warmbier's release came amid mounting tensions with Washington following a series of missile tests by Pyongyang, focusing attention on an arms buildup that Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has dubbed "a clear and present danger to all."
University student Otto Warmbier, who had been on a tourist trip to North Korea, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor for removing a political poster from a hotel

President Donald Trump slammed the "brutal regime" in Pyongyang following the death of Otto Warmbier, the US student released in a coma last week after nearly 18 months in detention in North Korea.

The 22-year-old was medically evacuated to the United States last Tuesday, suffering from severe brain damage. He died six days later surrounded by relatives in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio.

"The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible," the family said in a statement Monday announcing Warmbier's death.

Warmbier was on a tourist trip when he was arrested and sentenced in March last year to 15 years hard labor for stealing a political poster from a North Korean hotel, a punishment US officials decried as out of proportion to his alleged crime.

Trump condemned Pyongyang following news of his death.

"It's a brutal regime," he said during a White House event. "Bad things happened but at least we got him home to his parents."

He then added with no explanation: "We'll be able to handle it."

In a separate written statement, Trump said, "Otto's fate deepens my Administration's determination to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency."

"The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim."

Timeline of events leading to the death of Otto Warmbier, a US student who left North Korea in a coma after 18 months in detention, and died Monday

Added Secretary of State Rex Tillerson:"We hold North Korea accountable for Otto Warmbier's unjust imprisonment, and demand the release of three other Americans who have been illegally detained."

Ex-Vietnam war POW Senator John McCain said in a statement that Warmbier "was murdered by the Kim Jong-Un regime," and added that the United States "cannot and should not tolerate the murder of its citizens by hostile powers."

On Twitter, Republican Senator Marco Rubio wrote that Warmbier "should never have been in jail for tearing down a stupid banner. And he most certainly should not have been murdered for it."

Kenneth Bae, a Korean-American missionary who spent almost two years in a North Korean prison before he was released in November 2014, asked people to pray for Warmbier's family.

"For Otto to be returned to the US in the state he was in - and then for him to die because of it - is not only an outrage, but it is a tragedy for his entire family," Bae said in a statement.

"This did not have to happen and should never happen again."

- 'At peace' -

Doctors last week said that Warmbier had suffered severe neurological injuries, and described him as being in a state of "unresponsive wakefulness," opening his eyes and blinking, but showing no signs of understanding language or of being aware of his surroundings.

His family said Monday that he first appeared anguished when he first arrived home, but died "at peace."

Kim Jong-Un's regime claimed Warmbier fell into a coma soon after he was sentenced last year, and that he had contracted botulism and been given a sleeping pill.

Tests carried out in the United States offered no conclusive evidence as to the cause of his neurological injuries, and no evidence of a botulism infection. Warmbier's doctors said he had suffered extensive tissue loss in all regions of his brain, but showed no signs of physical trauma.

They said that Warmbier's brain injury was probably caused by cardiopulmonary arrest cutting the blood supply to the brain.

- 'No excuse' -

Warmbier's release came amid mounting tensions with Washington following a series of missile tests by Pyongyang, an arms buildup that Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has dubbed "a clear and present danger to all."

His death also brought attention to North Korea's human rights record.

The Washington-based Committee for Human Rights in North Korea tied Warmbier's fate to "millions of unknown North Koreans" who are "starved, tortured, brutalized and killed in North Korea's political prison camps."

Warmbier's family said they believed the student had found peace after being flown home.

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable -- almost anguished," they said.

"Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed -- he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that," they added.

Three more US citizens are currently being held by North Korea. Two were teachers at a Pyongyang university funded by overseas Christian groups, and the third a Korean-American pastor who was accused of espionage for the South.

Following Warmbier's death, the tour group that arranged his trip to North Korea said it would no longer take Americans into the isolated country.

"The devastating loss of Otto Warmbier's life has led us to reconsider our position on accepting American tourists. There had not been any previous detainment in North Korea that has ended with such tragic finality and we have been struggling to process the result," China-based Young Pioneer Tours said in a statement.

"Now, the assessment of risk for Americans visiting North Korea has become too high. The way his detention was handled was appalling, and a tragedy like this must never be repeated," it said.
The 12,000-strong MINUSCA force has been plagued by a wave of sexual abuse allegations since the mission began in 2014 to help restore stability to the Central African Republic

More than 600 troops from Congo Republic serving as UN peacekeepers in the Central African Republic will be returning home following allegations of sex abuse and other misconduct, UN officials said Monday.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres will announce the withdrawal Tuesday during a news conference at the United Nations, officials told AFP.

The decision follows a report by the UN commander of the MINUSCA force who warned that Brazzaville should either take steps to rein in the troops or be forced to repatriate them.

Lieutenant General Balla Keita of Senegal told UN headquarters that he had sent six letters of blame to the battalion commander already this year over alleged sexual abuse, fuel trafficking and lack of discipline.

The 629 peacekeepers deployed in Berberati, the country's third-largest city, are Brazzaville's only contribution to UN peacekeeping.

Last year, 120 troops from the same contingent were sent back following allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation (SEA) involving at least 7 victims, six of whom were children.

But following a MINUSCA assessment of the Berberati base in March, Keita said there had been "no improvements in the behavior of the Congolese battalion."

"The battalion is notorious for SEA misconducts, fuel trafficking and poor discipline," Keita wrote in a memo sent last month.

"The situation has deteriorated to the point that the battalion is no longer trustable because of poor leadership, lack of discipline, and operational deficiencies," he added.

The memo and a 66-page UN assessment of the Congolese troops were released by the Code Blue Campaign of non-governmental organizations seeking to expose cases of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN peacekeepers.

- Tougher response -

The 12,000-strong MINUSCA force has been plagued by a wave of sexual abuse allegations since the mission began in 2014 to help restore stability to the country.

One of Africa's poorest countries, the Central African Republic descended into bloody sectarian fighting after the 2013 overthrow of longtime leader Francois Bozize.

Former UN chief Ban Ki-moon in 2015 took the rare step of firing the then-head of the peacekeeping force over his handling of dozens of misconduct cases, including the rape of minors.

With sex abuse cases continuing to surface, Guterres vowed to toughen up the response to the damaging allegations when he took the UN helm in January.

UN critics in the United States -- many of whom are in the US Congress -- have pointed to the mounting cases of misconduct by UN peacekeepers in their campaign to cut funding to UN blue helmets.

In the report to UN headquarters, the force commander said the Congolese contingent showed a "poor display of leadership and military discipline" and failed to maintain basic logistics.

He noted that the unit had only 18 vehicles that were serviceable and that 44 others were awaiting maintenance.

The assessment described the shoddy state of the Berberati camp, with no proper water supply, field toilets and little fencing to restrict access to the site by civilians.
NEW YORK (AP) - Courts, lawmakers or both in least 12 U.S. states have said that some children can have more than two parents, though there are differences in the details of what that means. There's no comprehensive list of three-parent cases. But here are some examples:

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ALASKA: Alaska judges have approved third-parent adoptions in recent years, says Allison Mendel, a longtime family law attorney in Anchorage. She worked on an adoption a few years ago involving a terminally ill single mother and a male couple. The mother, who has since died, wanted to position the men to be surviving parents without giving up her child while she was living, Mendel said.

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CALIFORNIA: A 2013 law says courts can declare that a child has more than two parents and consider them all in custody, child support and other contexts. It was prompted by a case in which a troubled lesbian couple's baby girl ended up in foster care, and her biological father lost a bid to be declared a third parent as he sought custody. The law's sponsor said it gave courts leeway to look out for children's best interests at a time when families are taking on new forms. Opponents said it eroded traditional parental roles and would allow people to "parent by committee."

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DELAWARE: Delaware courts have recognized three legal parents in some families. In one, a man had married a woman pregnant with another man's child. The child called both the husband and the biological father "Dad." The court concluded in 2013 that it was "appropriate to give legal parental status to three people in this case": the biological mother and father, plus the husband as a "de facto" parent.

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FLORIDA: A judge agreed in 2013 to put three parents' names on a Miami girl's birth certificate. The case involved a lesbian couple and a male friend. The women had initially envisioned him having a non-parental role in the girl's life; he said he was hurt when they asked him to sign away his rights during the pregnancy. They clashed in court before agreeing to a three-parent birth certificate and weekly visits for the man, while parental decision-making responsibility stayed with the women. "If you have love to give to a child, please just do it," the man said at the time.

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LOUISIANA: Louisiana courts have allowed for "dual paternity" when a mother's husband - generally, the presumed father of children born in the marriage - isn't the biological father. But "there hasn't been any legal recognition of people deliberately embarking on a multi-parent family," says Jeffrey Wittenbrink, a longtime family law attorney in Baton Rouge. In 2010, the state's highest court did OK "tripartite custody " among a child's multigenerational "family unit": his biological parents and a grandmother who had adopted the boy and had lived in a two-family home with them all.

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MAINE: Lawmakers decided in 2015 to empower courts to find that a child has more than two parents, as part of a major overhaul of parentage laws. Passed over Republican Gov. Paul LePage's veto , the law took effect last July. Maine courts had occasionally declared third parents beforehand, but the law made it clear they had that authority and laid out criteria for such "de facto" parents, says Alicia Cushing, a Portland attorney who chairs the state bar association's family law section and has handled such cases herself.

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NEW JERSEY: A 2015 ruling on "tri-parenting" involved a woman, a man who'd been her best friend since college, and his husband. They had a child together in 2009 and were so proud of their three-part parenting arrangement that they did media interviews, but the relationship soured after the woman proposed to move to California. A judge eventually blocked her move and gave custody of their daughter to all three, finding the best friend's husband to be a "psychological parent." The court, however, declined to declare him a legal parent. The three adults have continued to square off in court over various issues.

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NEW YORK: A three-part intimate relationship among a husband, his wife and a female neighbor in suburban Long Island eventually led to the state's first known "tri-custody" ruling , released this past March. The three decided together to have and raise a child, whom the neighbor bore. The women later split off as a couple, and the husband and wife divorced. Although the ex-wife lived with the biological mother and boy, she wanted the legal protection of shared custody. A judge granted it, citing the best interest of "a well-adjusted 10-year-old boy who loves his father and his two mothers." At least one other "tri-custody" case is ongoing in New York, according to Eric Wrubel, who is representing a gay couple in that case.

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NORTH DAKOTA: The state's highest court ruled in 2010 on the case of a man who'd raised a boy as his son for six years, before learning that another man had fathered him. With both biological parents also in the boy's life, the state Supreme Court found the man was an additional, "psychological parent." He was granted rights including visitation and even invitations to special school events. But only the mother was given decision-making authority over the child, and the justices suggested the child should not be shuttled among "three different homes with three different 'parents' each week."

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OREGON: Some Oregon judges have approved third-parent adoptions in recent years, say Beth and Jennifer Wolfsong, who have handled some such cases at their Portland law firm. Clients who had third-parent adoptions approved included three adults in an intimate relationship who embarked together on having a child. But other clients seeking third-parent adoptions have been turned down, and the issue remains quite new in Oregon courts.

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PENNSYLVANIA: A Pennsylvania appeals court decided in a 2007 that a man who fathered children for a lesbian couple had to contribute to child support after the couple broke up. He had agreed to be a sperm donor and then became involved in the two children's lives, encouraging them to call him "Papa" and pitching in thousands of dollars toward their care, the court found. The court said he had shown an intention "to demonstrate parental involvement far beyond the merely biological" and ordered that he be factored as an "indispensable party" in child support, though it didn't expressly declare him a parent. By the time of the ruling, he had died - and left his estate to the children, his lawyers said.

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WASHINGTON STATE: Washington courts have recognized third parents, such as a man who was told he had fathered his girlfriend's baby. He served as the child's primary parent after the mother left him, before her former boyfriend was shown to be the biological father and embraced paternity. An appeals court agreed in 2013 that the first man was "a father to this child," with visitation rights and support obligations.

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ON THE HORIZON?

WASHINGTON, D.C.: It's not clear that any third parents have been legally recognized in the nation's capital. But family-law attorneys have taken notice that a new law allowing surrogate pregnancies doesn't speak to any particular number of "intended parents" who can contract with a surrogate (it does specify that the surrogate herself won't have parental rights). The law, which took effect just this April, could be "a substantial open door" to third parents, family-law attorney Christopher Locey says.
A northwest Arkansas house once occupied by former President Bill Clinton and damaged by fire has been deemed a total loss.

The one bedroom Fayetteville, Arkansas home - owned by Stephanie and Robert Dzur and occupied at the time by Stephanie's father, Joe Brodacz - caught fire on June 8.

Clinton lived there from 1973 to 1975, when he was a law professor at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, before he married Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The Fayetteville, Arkansas home, where Bill Clinton lived during his unsuccessful bid for Congress in 1974, has been deemed beyond repair and will need to be torn down after it caught on fire on June 8. The current homeowners believe the fire started in the carport

The house (pictured before the fire) was built in 1957 by American Institute of Architecture Gold Medal winner E. Fay Jones. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported Sunday that Stephanie Dzur said her insurance agent told her the home is damaged beyond repair and will have to be torn down.

'It is too damaged to fix,' Stephanie said. 'The supporting beams are more than 60 percent burnt through.'

Although investigators haven't released an official cause yet, the Dzurs suspect the fire started in Brodacz's SUV, which was parked in the carport. Brodacz managed to escape from the burning house with his dog.

Robert Dzur noted that it was 'strange' that the fire started there, in the middle of the night, since 'it's not like the car had just been driven'.

Bill Clinton (pictured in 1978) lived at the house from 1973 to 1975, when he was a law professor at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, prior to marrying Hillary Rodham Clinton

In his autobiography, 'My Life,' Clinton called the house 'a godsend of peace and quiet'

The house (pictured before the fire) was notable for having been featured in House Beautiful in March 1960, as well as being the design that won Jones an award from the American Institute of Architects in 1961.

The homeowners said that because the fire damaged more than 60 percent of the supporting beams, the house cannot be fixed and will need to be torn down

Although the house (seen after the fire) will need to be torn down, elements of it  including a large fireplace and rocks that made up a wall  are salvageable. The homeowners hope that an American art museum can use the materials to rebuild the house on the museum's property

The house was built in 1957 by American Institute of Architecture Gold Medal winner E. Fay Jones. The Dzurs bought the home in 2011 when it was in foreclosure, restored it and had it listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Adrian Fletcher Residence in 2013.

The house was notable for having been featured in House Beautiful in March 1960, as well as being the design that won Jones an award from the American Institute of Architects in 1961.

'We couldnt believe it was for sale when we purchased it and so just were ecstatic to acquire it and put a lot care into it for a number of years. It was really in disrepair when we encountered it,' Robert told 5 News.

Stephanie said she approached local architect Walter Jennings to see if there would be an opportunity for the historic house to be rebuilt at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Jennings told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette the museum is 'evaluating' it and that there are elements of the house that are salvageable, namely a large fireplace, rocks that made up a wall and some of its beams and trim.

Robert said that donating the salvageable elements of the house to the museum is appealing because 'it would kind of live on and not just in our memory.'

Clinton lived in the house when he ran for Congress  and lost  in 1974.

In his 'My Life' autobiography, Clinton wrote, 'The house proved to be a godsend of peace and quiet, especially after I started my first campaign.'

It is the second Clinton-connected house in Arkansas that has caught fire in recent years.

On Christmas Day in 2015, the President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home in Hope, Arkansas was graffitied and burned in a suspected case of arson. The National Historic Site was repaired and reopened seven months later.
LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) - The University of Wyoming is warning audiences about offensive material in a traveling musical after Native American high school students walked out of a performance of "The Fantasticks."

The walkout happened Thursday during intermission, The Laramie Boomerang reported. It wasn't clear how many students attending the Native American Summer Institute at the campus in Laramie walked out of the show.

The 1960 musical, which is about two neighboring fathers who trick their children into falling in love by pretending to feud, contains a scene in which characters dress up as and villainize Native Americans. Attendees said they were also shocked at the casual use of the word "rape" in the musical's dialogue.

The walkout prompted criticism from UW's United Multicultural Council and a boycott by another summer camp. The Upward Bound group canceled plans to attend Saturday's performance the Department of Theater and Dance.

"The show especially demeans Native American cultures with outdated stereotypes of Native American appropriation by non-native actors wearing headdresses/warbonnets," according to a statement by the United Multicultural Council. "It also portrays Native American and Latino/Hispanic characters as the villains or antagonists of the show."

The university prepared a program insert for future performances explaining the scene.

"With historical productions, we see a 'point in time,' which is different from the one in which we live," the insert reads. "We see portrayals of characters that are painful to watch as 21st century audiences. The challenge then, in producing historical works, is to help audiences understand the context and/or story for the play without taking undue or illegal liberties with the script."

The long-running musical, a staple of regional, community and high school theater, plays in four different Wyoming communities this week before closing next weekend in Laramie. The musical, which features the songs "Try To Remember" and "Soon It's Gonna Rain," closed earlier this month in New York City, having played a total of 21,552 performances in the capital of American theater.

Tim Nichols, who helped set up the Native American Summer Institute, told The Boomerang that the content was unfortunate

"It's a 1960s play, but it was, in my view, inappropriate," he said. "We shared our concerns with the theater department and we shared our concerns with the students and, you know, we're OK."

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Information from: Laramie Boomerang, http://www.laramieboomerang.com
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on U.S. shooting down a Syrian fighter jet (all times local):

11:45 p.m.

The U.S. has long said that it would protect what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces. But Sunday's shooting down of a Syrian regime jet is the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.

The U.S. military says it has shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that had bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants. The action appears to mark a new escalation of the conflict.

A Pentagon spokesman says the U.S. had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation.

The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq says a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa.

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7:15 p.m.

The U.S. military has shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants. The action appears to mark a new escalation of the conflict.

A Pentagon spokesman says the U.S. had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation.

The U.S. has long said that it would protect what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces. This is the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.

The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq says a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa.

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5:30 p.m.

The U.S. military says it has shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants.

The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq said in a written statement Sunday that a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces.

This appears to mark a new escalation of the conflict. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa.

The U.S. military statement says it acted in "collective self defense" of its partner forces and that the U.S. does not seek a fight with the Syrian government or its Russian supporters.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - A bombing in a Bahrain town home to a prominent Shiite cleric has killed one police officer and wounded two.

Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced the death in Diraz early Monday, blaming "terrorists" for the attack in a post on Twitter.

The February 14 Youth Coalition, which has claimed attacks in the past, posted a video online it said showed its masked members throwing gasoline bombs at police gathered near the home of Shiite cleric Isa Qassim. The group is named after the date of the start of Bahrain's 2011 Arab Spring protests.

Bahrain is in the midst of a yearlong crackdown on all dissent in the Sunni-ruled island kingdom. The Shiite-majority island is home to the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet and an under-construction British naval base.
PITTSBURGH (AP) - A Colorado physician who was fatally shot while trying to help his neighbor after she was wounded in a domestic shooting is one of 19 people being honored with Carnegie medals for heroism.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, based in Pittsburgh, announced the winners Monday.

Dr. Kenneth R. Atkinson , 65, ran out of his Centennial home when he heard a neighbor shooting at his wife and another woman, whose home his wife had run to for cover on April 4, 2016. As Atkinson kneeled to attend to his wounded neighbor and called 911, he was shot by the suspect in the leg, and then fatally shot as he tried to take cover behind a vehicle. The shooting suspect, Kevin Lee Lyons, pleaded not guilty in March to 14 charges, including first-degree murder, and is awaiting trial on related charges that he wounded his wife and the other woman and fired shots at an Arapahoe County sheriff's deputy.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission was endowed and founded by the late steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who was inspired by stories of heroism during a coal mine disaster that killed 181 people, including a miner and an engineer, who died trying to rescue others.

The commission investigates stories of heroism and awards medals and cash several times a year. It has given away $39.1 million to 9,953 awardees or their families since 1904.

Three others honored Monday died in rescue attempts, including Sean C. Randles , 49, of Las Vegas. He died on May 28, 2016, when he tried to save a hiker from falling over a 50-foot (15-meter) cliff when she slipped in a stream at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Randles was near the edge of the stream and grabbed the woman's hand in an attempt to save her, before both fell to their deaths.

Other winners announced Monday, with rescues taking place in the hometown of each winner unless otherwise noted:

-Stephanie Melinda Marino , 35, of Manteca, California, who saved a 27-year-old man from being struck by a train when his vehicle crashed down onto railroad tracks in June 2016.

-Scott B. Keller , 41, of Tecumseh, Michigan, who saved a 7-year-old boy from burning in a townhouse fire in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, in July 2016.

-Robert Sunkel , 25, and Linda Nolan , 45, both of Vero Beach, Florida, who saved a 58-year-old woman from burning after her vehicle collided with a tanker truck in March 2016.

-Robbie Goering-Jensen , 49, of Ashland, Nebraska, saved a 57-year-old man who uses a wheelchair and his 83-year-old mother from burning in a house fire in Omaha, Nebraska, in December 2015.

-Brian G. Bergkamp , 24, of Cheney, Kansas, who drowned trying to help a 26-year-old woman whose kayak went over a dam and overturned in Wichita, Kansas, in July 2016. She survived.

-Brett Bailes , 31, C. Fredric Holbeck , 54, and Dennis Wilson , 66, all of Omaha, Nebraska, who saved an unconscious 28-year-old man from a burning car that was struck by a pickup in February 2016.

-David Blauzvern , 23, of Roslyn Heights, New York; Gary J. Messina , 56, of West Islip, New York; and John J. Green III , 29, of New York City; who saved a man from drowning in the East River in June 2016.

-Louis Daniel Scharold , 72, of Alexandria, Kentucky, who rescued a 48-year-old man from a truck near another burning vehicle that had crashed into it in Grants Lick, Kentucky, in April 2016.

-Dennis Joseph Michel , 46, of Ankeny, Iowa, who drowned helping others try to save a 40-year-old man from drowning in the Lake of the Ozarks in Camdenton, Missouri, in August 2016.

-Robert Conant , 29, of Stoney Creek, Ontario, who helped save a 23-year-old man from falling down the wall of a park ravine in Oakville, Ontario, in April 2015.

-John David Smith , 47, of Snoqualmie Pass, Washington, who saved a 70-year-old woman from burning after her vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle in July 2016.

-Victor M. Ortiz , 41, of Union, New Jersey, who saved a man who fell between the tracks of a commuter train approaching at 60 mph in Secaucus, New Jersey, in August 2016.

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Online:

http://carnegiehero.org
US student freed by North Korea in a coma dies at 22

CINCINNATI (AP) - Otto Warmbier, an American college student who was released by North Korea in a coma last week after almost a year and a half in captivity, died Monday, his family said.

The 22-year-old "has completed his journey home," the family said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, the awful, torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," his parents said.

Doctors had described his condition as a state of "unresponsive wakefulness" and said he suffered a "severe neurological injury" of unknown cause.

His father, Fred Warmbier, said last week that he believed Otto had been fighting for months to stay alive to return to his family. Their statement Monday said he looked uncomfortable and anguished after returning June 13, but his countenance later changed.

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Van attack on London Muslims suggests new polarization

LONDON (AP) - The rash of deadly terror attacks that has rattled Britain in recent months took an ominous new turn on Monday as Muslim worshippers became targets during the holy month of Ramadan, mowed down by an attacker who plowed a van into a crowd leaving prayers at two mosques in north London.

It was the same tactic Islamic extremists used in recent assaults on Westminster Bridge and London Bridge. Those attacks and a third outside a pop concert in Manchester have triggered a surge in hate crimes against Muslims around Britain.

British authorities, including Prime Minister Theresa May, and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community following the attack shortly after midnight that injured at least nine people in London's Finsbury Park neighborhood, which is home to a large Muslim population.

Authorities said the incident was being treated as a terror attack. One man died at the scene, although he was receiving first aid at the time and it wasn't clear if he died as a result of the attack or from something else.

British media identified the suspect as Darren Osborne, a 47-year-old Briton and father of four living in Cardiff, Wales, who was not known to authorities before the attack.

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Trump's legal plan quite simple so far: Fight, fight, fight

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump has given his legal team a clear direction: Fight, fight, fight.

That tactic from Trump's lawyers and proxies has manifested itself in aggressively worded statements and television appearances aimed at warding off any legal threat from prosecutors - and persuading the American public the president isn't in legal jeopardy.

But Trump's attorneys, with their own unconventional backgrounds, face a challenging task - especially against seasoned lawyers working with former FBI Director Robert Mueller. To make it more difficult, Trump's statements threaten to undercut their work.

It's too early to say for sure what legal strategy his lawyers will eventually settle on. But they seem prepared to paint Mueller's investigative team as politically motivated and will likely argue the president didn't illegally exert pressure on the investigation.

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When Muslims are attacked, Trump often slow to speak out

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump has yet to condemn an attack on Muslim worshippers in London, the latest instance in which he has appeared slower to speak out about violence when Muslims are the victims.

Unlike with other recent attacks targeting civilians, there were no early-morning tweets voicing sympathy for the victims or vowing a renewed fight against violent ideologies. The first White House voice to acknowledge the late Sunday attack was Trump's daughter, Ivanka, who tweeted that she was "sending love and prayers." She added: "We must stand united against hatred and extremism in all its ugly forms."

As president, Trump has taken steps to protect Muslims from violence, including cruise missile strikes against Syria's military after blaming it for a chemical attack that killed dozens of civilians.

Still, Muslim advocacy groups say they see a stark difference in the haste with which Trump responds when Muslims are the perpetrators of attacks, and not the targets. They see the discrepancy as part of a pattern, given Trump's harsh campaign rhetoric about Islam and attempts to temporarily ban immigrants from a handful of Muslim-majority countries.

"It's like pulling teeth to get President Trump to respond to terror attacks on Muslims," said Ibrahim Hooper of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "His silence or his delay really sends a negative message to the American Muslim community that their lives and their safety are not as important as the lives and safety of other citizens."

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Tensions rise in Syria as Russia, Iran send US warnings

BEIRUT (AP) - Russia on Monday threatened aircraft from the U.S.-led coalition in Syrian-controlled airspace and suspended a hotline intended to avoid collisions in retaliation for the U.S. military shooting down a Syrian warplane.

The U.S. said it had downed the Syrian jet a day earlier after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces conducting operations against the Islamic State group, adding that was something it would not tolerate.

The downing of the warplane - the first time in the six-year conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet - came amid another first: Iran fired several ballistic missiles Sunday night at IS positions in eastern Syria in what it said was a message to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The developments added to already-soaring regional tensions and reflect the intensifying rivalry among the major players in Syria's civil war that could spiral out of control just as the fight against the Islamic State group in its stronghold of Raqqa is gaining ground.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, called on the U.S. military to provide a full accounting as to why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22 bomber.

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Muslims skeptical about 'road rage' in Virginia girl's death

FAIRFAX, Va. (AP) - Police in Virginia on Monday blamed road rage for the killing of a teenage Muslim girl who was allegedly attacked by a driver while walking with friends to her mosque between Ramadan prayers this weekend.

The girl's father, Mohmoud Hassanen Aboras of Reston, said he doesn't understand how this could have happened, because he said his daughter, 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen, was a friend to everyone.

Police charged 22-year-old Darwin Martinez Torres with murder after pulling a young woman's body from a pond.

Detectives have so far found no indication of a link "between the victim's faith or religious beliefs or the mosque and the crime itself," Fairfax County Police Spokesman Don Gotthardt told The Associated Press.

"This tragic case appears to be the result of a road rage incident involving the suspect, who was driving and who is now charged with murder, and a group of teenagers who was walking and riding bikes in and along a roadway," a police statement said.

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Car rams police vehicle on famed Paris avenue; attacker dies

PARIS (AP) - A man on the radar of French authorities for extremism was killed Monday after ramming a car carrying arms and explosives into a police convoy on Paris' famed Champs-Elysees Avenue, setting off a fiery blast and a cloud of orange smoke, officials said. France's anti-terrorism prosecutor opened an investigation.

Gendarmes jumped out of the vehicle, ran to the car, smashed its windows and pulled out the driver in an apparent attempt to save him, according to witness accounts. The interior minister confirmed that he died.

No one else was injured despite the crowds of tourists and others walking down the avenue on a hot, sunny day, the Paris police department said.

Interior Minister Gerard Collomb called it an "attempted attack" and said it "shows once again that the threat level in France is extremely high." The minister used the occasion to explain the continued need for a state of emergency, in place since 2015, and plans to extend it until Nov. 1, to be presented at a Cabinet meeting Wednesday.

A man could be seen lying on his stomach on the ground immediately after the incident, wearing a white shirt and dark shorts. The body was kept out of view under a tent, and later police were seen removing it, in a body bag on a stretcher.

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Top court to hear case that could reshape US political map

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court will take up a momentous fight over parties manipulating electoral districts to gain partisan advantage in a case that could affect the balance of power between Democrats and Republicans across the United States.

At issue is whether Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin drew legislative districts that favored their party and were so out of whack with the state's political breakdown that they violated the constitutional rights of Democratic voters.

It will be the high court's first case in more than a decade on what's known as partisan gerrymandering. A lower court struck down the districts as unconstitutional last year.

The justices won't hear the arguments until the fall, but the case has already taken on a distinctly ideological, if not partisan, tone. Just 90 minutes after justices announced Monday that they would hear the case, the five more conservative justices voted to halt a lower court's order to redraw the state's legislative districts by November, in time for next year's elections.

The four more liberal justices, named to the court by Democrats, would have let the new line-drawing proceed even as the court considers the issue.

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Argentina movement mobilizes to fight violence against women

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) - On Christmas Eve of 2011, Maira Maidana lit a candle to the patron saint of Argentina and closed her eyes in prayer - just like she did every time she feared a brutal beating by her partner.

But this time, instead of the usual blows, she felt her whole body catch on fire. When she turned around, she saw him staring at her with a bottle of alcohol in one hand. Ablaze, she ran to three faucets, but not a single drop of water came out.

Fifty-nine surgeries later, Maidana has finally found the courage to tell the truth about what happened to her that awful night. She says she owes that courage to a grassroots movement of tens of thousands of people across Argentina who have mobilized to fight violence against women. Called Ni Una Menos, or Not One Less, the movement has spread rapidly worldwide and now has branches in New York, Berlin, Italy, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador and more.

"With Ni Una Menos, women are no longer hiding," says Maidana, 29, who is scarred in her neck and chest and speaks in whispers. Maidana marched for hours during the latest Ni Una Menos protest earlier this month, holding a banner and beaming with pride.

"Before, we wouldn't talk," she says. "I don't know if it was fear or shame, or feeling that justice was not on your side...I like it that it's now out in the open."

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Google promises YouTube crackdown on online extremism

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Google is promising to be more vigilant about preventing terrorist propaganda and other extremist videos from appearing on its YouTube site amid intensifying criticism about the internet's role in mass violence.

Its crackdown will involve both computer programs and an expanded group of people dedicated to identifying videos promoting terrorism so they can be blocked from appearing on YouTube or quickly removed.

Google is making the commitment in the wake of violent attacks in the U.S. and elsewhere. A van struck a crowd of people outside a London mosque Sunday, the second time an automobile was used as a weapon in that city this month, and less than a week after a gunman attacked GOP lawmakers on a baseball field.

And earlier this month, British Prime Minister Theresa May called on governments to form international agreements to prevent the spread of extremism online. Some proposed measures would hold companies legally accountable for the material posted on their sites, a liability that Google and other internet companies are trying to avert.

Toward that end, Facebook last week pledged to use more advanced technology and more than 150 human reviewers to find and remove terrorist content before people see it on its social networking site.
Wanted: 10,000 New Yorkers interested in advancing science by sharing a trove of personal information, from cellphone locations and credit-card swipes to blood samples and life-changing events. For 20 years.

Researchers are gearing up to start recruiting participants from across the city next year for a study so sweeping it's called 'The Human Project .'

It aims to channel different data streams into a river of insight on health, aging, education and many other aspects of human life.

Pictured are people walking inside the Oculus, the new transit station at the World Trade Center in New York. Researchers are gearing up to start recruiting 10,000 New Yorkers early next year for a study so sweeping it's called 'The Human Project'

'That's what we're all about: putting the holistic picture together,' says project director Dr Paul Glimcher, a New York University neural science, economics and psychology professor.

There have been other 'big data' health studies, and the National Institutes of Health plans to start full-scale recruitment as soon as this fall for a million-person project intended to foster individualized treatment.

But the $15 million-a-year Human Project is breaking ground with the scope of individual data it plans to collect simultaneously, says Dr Vasant Dhar, editor-in-chief of the journal Big Data, which published a 2015 paper about the project.

'It is very ambitious,' the NYU information systems professor says.

WHAT IS THE HUMAN PROJECT? The Human Project is a data study that aims to channel different data streams into a river of insight on health, aging, education and many other aspects of human life. The study leaders aim to recruit 10,000 New Yorkers interested in advancing science by sharing a range of personal information, from cellphone locations and credit-card swipes to blood samples and life-changing events. For 20 years. Participants will be invited to join and they'll start with blood tests, genetics tests, IQ tests and more. They'll be asked for access to medical, financial and educational records, as well as cellphone data such as location and the numbers they call and text. They'll also be given wearable activity trackers, special scales, and surveys via smartphone. Follow-up blood and urine tests - and an at-home fecal sample - will be requested every three years. Researchers hope the results will illuminate the interplay between health, behavior and circumstances, potentially shedding new light on conditions ranging from asthma to Alzheimer's disease. Advertisement

Participants will be invited to join; researchers are tapping survey science to create a demographically representative group.

They'll start with tests of everything from blood to genetics to IQ.

They'll be asked for access to medical, financial and educational records, as well as cellphone data such as location and the numbers they call and text.

They'll also be given wearable activity trackers, special scales, and surveys via smartphone.

Follow-up blood and urine tests - and an at-home fecal sample - will be requested every three years.

Participants get $500 per family for enrolling, plus a say in directing some charitable money to community projects.

Researchers hope the results will illuminate the interplay between health, behavior and circumstances, potentially shedding new light on conditions ranging from asthma to Alzheimer's disease.

Their excitement comes with the responsibility of safeguarding the digital savings of a lifetime.

Protections include multiple rounds of encryption and firewalls.

Outside researchers won't be able to see any raw data, just anonymized subsets limited to the information they need.

They'll take nothing with them but their analyses - by hand, since the analyzing computers aren't connected to the internet, Glimcher said.

Lee Tien, a senior staff attorney at the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, credits the Human Project researchers with taking security seriously.

But he wonders whether authorities might seek to get at the information for investigations, though Glimcher maintains that the researchers could protect it from anything but major terrorism probes.

Participants of the The Human Project will be asked to share a trove of personal information, from cellphone locations and credit-card swipes to blood samples and life-changing events. For 20 years

Glimcher knows The Human Project aspires boldly.

In fact, its frequently-asked-questions list includes: 'Is this possible? Are you crazy?'

He points to one of medicine's most storied research efforts: The Framingham Heart Study, launched in 1948.

Some 15,000 residents of Framingham, Massachusetts, have been examined over the years.

The initiative has fueled more than 1,200 studies and revealed that blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking were linked to heart disease risk.

'If we could be seen as having contributed to American health care and well-being and education in the United States in the way that Framingham did, but magnified a hundredfold by the tools of today's data, what a fantastic accomplishment that would be,' says Glimcher.

Participants will be invited to join and they'll start with blood tests, genetics tests, IQ tests and more. They'll be asked for access to medical, financial and educational records, as well as cellphone data such as location and the numbers they call and text

Nancy Spinale knows what it takes to be part of an accomplishment like that.

Her parents joined the Framingham study in 1948, she in 1971 and her husband and four children since then.

Now 75 and living on Cape Cod, the retired teacher still undergoes an hours long follow-up exam and interview every couple of years.

Her loved ones have gotten some personally useful information from exams.

And she's gotten the pride of seeing studies come out, with information that could help everyone's health.

'That's the 'wow' feeling,' she says.
BEIJING (AP) - China said Monday it would ban a designer drug called U-47700 and three others, following U.S. pressure to do more to control synthetic opioids blamed for fast-rising overdose deaths in the United States.

In China, U-47700 has until now been a legal alternative to fentanyl and potent derivatives like carfentanil. Its usage has been growing among U.S. opioid addicts.

Last year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration listed U-47700 in the category of the most dangerous drugs it regulates, saying it was associated with dozens of fatalities, mostly in New York and North Carolina. Some of the pills taken from Prince's estate after the musician's overdose death last year contained U-47700.

Deng Ming, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission speaks during the National Anti-drug Committee briefing at a hotel in Beijing, Monday, June 19, 2017. China has announced it is banning a deadly synthetic opioid called U-47700 and three other synthetic drugs. Deng said the drugs would be added to China's list of controlled substances as of July 1. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)

The DEA has long said that China is the top source country for synthetic opioids like fentanyl and its precursors, assertions Beijing has said lack firm evidence. Still, the two countries have deepened cooperation as the U.S. opioid epidemic intensifies.

Deng Ming, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission, said that U-47700 and three other synthetic drugs - MT-45, PMMA, and 4,4'-DMAR - would be added to China's list of controlled substances as of July 1.

Yu Haibin, a division director at the Ministry of Public Security's Narcotics Control Bureau, said China was making "big efforts" to deal with drugs known as new psychoactive substances. These substances are made by modifying the chemical structures of controlled substances in order to get around the law, and China has now restricted 138 of them.

However, as soon as one substance is banned, chemists create slightly different and technically legal alternatives and then market them online.

"My feeling is that it's just like a race and I will never catch up with the criminals," Yu told a news conference. "Actually, we just want to make a breakthrough in dealing with this."

To counter the cat-and-mouse game, Yu said authorities had set up a system whereby information on new types of drugs gleaned during police investigations, customs clearances and medical treatment would be transferred to the national drug lab. An expert committee would then assess this information and send alert notices to relevant agencies in order to help speed up the control of new substances, he said.

Yu said suspects use the internet to communicate with customers and use the anonymized digital currency bitcoin to transfer money, and that authorities were working with internet companies to try to stop such trade and the advertising of drugs on websites.

To combat drugs being sent by post or express delivery service, authorities were carrying out real-name registration requirements and X-rays of parcels being delivered to "high-risk areas," he said.

Addressing the news conference, Justin Schoeman, Beijing-based country attache for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, said: "I can tell you that when China controls a substance, (new psychoactive substances) or fentanyl-classed substance, it has a huge impact on seizures and availability in the U.S., so thank you very much.

"The controlling of substances in China certainly saves lives in the U.S.," he added.

He added that China's banning of additional substances means the U.S. and China can now carry out joint investigations on those chemicals, including the tracking of packages from the source through to the recipients in the U.S.

U-47700 is a synthetic opioid, a fast-proliferating class of drugs that have caused thousands of deaths in the United States. In 2015 alone, there were 9,580 deaths due to synthetic opioids other than methadone, accounting for almost a fifth of all drug overdose deaths.

Deng Ming, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission listens a question by Justin Schoeman from U.S. drug enforcement administration base in Beijing, during the National Anti-drug Committee briefing at a hotel in Beijing, Monday, June 19, 2017. China has announced it is banning a deadly synthetic opioid called U-47700 and three other synthetic drugs. Deng said the drugs would be added to China's list of controlled substances as of July 1. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)

Deng Ming, deputy director of the National Narcotics Control Commission speaks during the National Anti-drug Committee briefing at a hotel in Beijing, Monday, June 19, 2017. China has announced it is banning a deadly synthetic opioid called U-47700 and three other synthetic drugs. Deng said the drugs would be added to China's list of controlled substances as of July 1. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)
CINCINNATI (AP) - Jurors began deliberations Monday in the murder retrial of a white University of Cincinnati police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black motorist after pulling him over for a missing front license plate.

The panel will reconvene Tuesday morning. The jurors were sequestered Monday evening after about three hours of deliberations.

The nine whites and three blacks on the jury heard testimony from more than 20 witnesses and saw more than 100 pieces of evidence presented in Ray Tensing's trial on murder and voluntary manslaughter charges in the July 2015 death of Sam DuBose. A jury of 10 whites and two blacks hung on those charges in November after some 25 hours of deliberations, and the judge declared a mistrial.

Ray Tensing, a former University of Cincinnati police officer, listens to Stew Mathews present closing arguments during his retrial at the Hamilton County Courthouse in Cincinnati, Monday, June 19, 2017. Tensing is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of unarmed black motorist Sam DuBose during a 2015 traffic stop. (Cara Owsley/The Cincinnati Enquirer via AP, Pool)

Much of the retrial focused on a three-minute segment of Tensing's body camera video and dueling interpretations of what it shows.

Tensing, 27, and attorney Stewart Mathews maintain that DuBose stepped on the accelerator and the vehicle was moving. Tensing said his arm was trapped and he feared DuBose, 43, would use his car to kill him. Mathews said he acted reasonably in trying to "stop the threat."

Prosecutor Stacey DeGraffenreid showed frame after frame of video in her closing argument Monday morning, asserting that the car wasn't moving until about one second before Tensing fired the fatal shot. Tensing wasn't in reasonable fear of his life when he made the decision to shoot DuBose, she told jurors.

She said Tensing repeatedly used "buzzwords" to try to justify the shooting because he had been taught that the law says officers are justified in using deadly force if they fear they are in danger of death or serious physical harm.

Mathews, in his summation, said prosecution experts failed to consider Tensing's words on the audiotape that accompanies the video. "Why would anybody yell, 'Stop, stop!' at a car that wasn't moving?" Mathews asked.

Mathews said questioning his actions are "20/20 hindsight."

Prosecutor Seth Tieger told jurors there was sufficient evidence to prove that Tensing committed murder and purposely killed DuBose without justification.

Tieger also said that if they can't agree on murder, there is at least enough evidence to prove the lesser charge, which alleges that DuBose provoked Tensing into shooting him in a "sudden fit of rage or passion." Tieger said that it was a "slam-dunk" manslaughter case and that the lesser charge is offered to prevent a "miscarriage of justice."

Jurors are unaware that prosecutors sought an even lower charge; Judge Leslie Ghiz denied that request last week.

Mathews countered that jurors should pay attention to DuBose's actions, too. He argued that DuBose caused the situation to turn deadly. He suggested DuBose was determined to get away because DuBose knew police would have discovered more than $2,620 cash in the car along with 200 grams of marijuana - enough to justify a felony charge.

Tensing took the stand in his own defense, tearing up Friday as he insisted he wanted to "stop the threat" of being killed. He also testified in his first trial.

The case is among a number across the United States in recent years that have increased debate about race and policing.

In another, a Minnesota police officer was acquitted Friday of manslaughter in the fatal shooting of Philando Castile, a black motorist who had just informed the officer that he was carrying a gun. Officer Jeronimo Yanez, who is Latino, testified that Castile was pulling his gun out of his pocket despite commands not to.

___

Associated Press writer Dan Sewell in Cincinnati contributed to this report.

Ray Tensing, a former University of Cincinnati police officer, listens to Assistant Prosecutor Stacey DeGraffenreid present closing arguments at his retrial at the Hamilton County Courthouse in Cincinnati, Monday, June 19, 2017. Tensing is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of unarmed black motorist Sam DuBose during a 2015 traffic stop. (Cara Owsley/The Cincinnati Enquirer via AP, Pool)

Defense Attorney Stew Mathews and Assistant Prosecutor Seth Tieger, right, talk after the jury was dismissed for deliberations during Ray Tensing's retrial at the Hamilton County Courthouse in Cincinnati, Monday, June 19, 2017. Tensing is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of unarmed black motorist Sam DuBose during a 2015 traffic stop. (Cara Owsley/The Cincinnati Enquirer via AP, Pool)

Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Leslie Ghiz presides over Ray Tensing's retrial at the courthouse in Cincinnati, Monday, June 19, 2017. Tensing is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of unarmed black motorist Sam DuBose during a 2015 traffic stop. (Cara Owsley/The Cincinnati Enquirer via AP, Pool)

Ray Tensing, a former University of Cincinnati police officer, listens to Assistant Prosecutor Stacey DeGraffenreid present closing arguments at his retrial at the Hamilton County Courthouse in Cincinnati, Monday, June 19, 2017. Tensing is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in the shooting of unarmed black motorist Sam DuBose during a 2015 traffic stop. (Cara Owsley/The Cincinnati Enquirer via AP, Pool)
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) - Eddie Tipton, a former employee at the Multi-State Lottery Association, is accused of installing software on Random Number Generators that allowed him to predict winning combinations for drawings that occurred on three dates every non-leap year - Nov. 23, Dec. 29 and May 27. So far, he and his associates have been linked to winning tickets in five states between 2005 and 2011. Here are the details:

- Colorado: Nov. 23, 2005: Tipton's brother Tommy Tipton, a Texas magistrate, buys the winning ticket for a $4.5 million Colorado Lotto jackpot. Two other winning tickets are sold, and investigators suspect one of them also is tied to the scheme. Tommy Tipton recruits a friend to claim his $568,900 cash payout, saying he wants to hide the winnings from his wife. The friend gets 10 percent.

- Wisconsin: Dec. 29, 2007: Tipton's friend Robert Rhodes, of Sugar Land, Texas, wins a $2 million Megabucks drawing in Wisconsin. He opts to take the $783,000 cash payout, which he splits with Eddie Tipton by delivering him briefcases full of cash when they visit each other in the coming months. Rhodes had a limited liability corporation claim the prize, which required him to sue the Wisconsin Lottery and get a court order. Rhodes later tells investigators that Eddie Tipton supplied him with note cards of the potential combinations to purchase.

- Kansas: Dec. 29, 2010: Tipton buys two winning tickets at convenience stores in Overland Park and Emporia for the Kansas 2by2 game. Each is worth $22,000. Tipton asks two friends to claim one ticket each, and they each give him back a portion of the payout. He tells one friend that her proceeds can be considered a gift for her recent engagement.

- Iowa: Dec. 29, 2010: Tipton buys the winning ticket for a $16.5 million Hot Lotto jackpot at a Des Moines gas station. Investigators say he passes the winning ticket to Rhodes in Texas, who then works with others in Canada and New York in an unsuccessful attempt to claim the prize in 2011. The Iowa Lottery refuses to pay after a trust formed to claim the prize refuses to reveal who bought the ticket. Tipton is identified as the buyer after investigators release gas station surveillance video in 2014.

- Oklahoma: Nov. 23, 2011: Tommy Tipton buys the winning ticket for a $1.2 million Hot Lotto jackpot in Oklahoma. Investigators say he recruited Texas construction company owner Kyle Conn to claim the prize.

Source: AP research
BALI, Indonesia (AP) - Four foreign inmates escaped early Monday from a prison on the Indonesian resort island of Bali, police said.

Prison officers became aware of the escape while conducting a morning check of inmates at the Kerobokan penitentiary in Bali's capital, Denpasar, said Putu Ika Prabawa, an officer at Bali's Kuta Utara police station.

Prabawa said the four men were believed to have escaped through a 50-by-70-centimeter (20-by-28-inch) hole found in a wall that connects to a 15-meter-long (49-foot-long) water tunnel heading toward a main street.

He identified the four as Shaun Edward Davidson, 33, of Australia; Dimitar Nikolov Iliev, 43, of Bulgaria; Sayed Mohammed Said, 31, of India; and Tee Koko King bin Tee Kim Sai, 50, of Malaysia.

Davidson is serving a one-year sentence for an immigration offense, while Iliev is serving a seven-year sentence for money laundering and another offense. Said and King are serving 14 and seven years, respectively, for drug offenses.

Prabawa said police have distributed pictures of the escaped inmates to police stations across Bali.

Jailbreaks are common in Indonesia, where overcrowding has become a problem in prisons that are struggling to cope with poor funding and an influx of people arrested in a war on drugs. Most prisoners have been convicted on drug charges.

Last week, dozens of inmates escaped from an overcrowded prison in western Indonesia after floods caused a wall to collapse.

Last month, more than 440 prisoners escaped from an overcrowded prison on Sumatra island when they were let out of their cells to take part in Friday Muslim prayers. In July 2013, about 240 prisoners, including several convicted terrorists, escaped during a deadly riot at a prison in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra province.
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) - The Lighthouse Christian Academy promises to provide an exemplary education, a caring atmosphere and service to God - but not for everyone. The school says in its admissions brochure that it reserves the right to deny admission to LGBT students because their lifestyle is prohibited by the Bible.

As the Trump administration seeks to expand school choice nationwide, the academy was thrust into the national spotlight last month as part of a heated debate over whether schools that receive money from taxpayer-funded vouchers can discriminate against certain groups of students, such as LGBT children or students with disabilities.

Lighthouse officials say they've never turned anyone away based on sexual orientation. But at a congressional hearing, Senate Democrats cited it as an example of a school that discriminates against LGBT students. A Lighthouse brochure says the Bible does not allow homosexual, bisexual or "any form of sexual immorality" and if a student's "home life" violates biblical rules, the school can deny them admission or expel them.

The Lighthouse Christian Academy is seen on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Bloomington, Ind. In its brochure the school promises an exemplary education, a caring atmosphere and a service to God _ but not for everyone. The school reserves the right to deny admission to LGBT students because it views their lifestyle as immoral. (AP Photo/Brian Slodysko)

Pressed on the issue, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, an ardent supporter of school choice, told the Senate committee that discrimination is wrong, but that it was up to Congress and the courts, not her department, to intervene.

Founded in the early 1990s by a tight-knit group of families who wanted an affordable Christian education for their children, the academy is now an academically successful K-12 school serving 300 children in the Bloomington area. About half receive vouchers to help pay an annual tuition that ranges from $4,500 to $6,000 depending on a student's grade.

This year, Lighthouse received over $665,000 in state funds to enroll 152 students.

DeVos and the Trump administration are strong proponents of giving states a greater role in education. Earlier this year, the administration rescinded former President Barack Obama's guidance that instructed to schools to let students use school restrooms in accordance with the gender they identify with, not their sex at birth. The move sparked criticism from the civil rights community.

The administration is looking at taxpayer-funded vouchers as a way to expand school choice nationwide, but it has not yet come out with a specific plan on how to do it.

Indiana is one of 30 states that use public money for school choice programs, including vouchers, educational savings accounts and tax-credit scholarships. The District of Columbia has the country's only federally funded voucher program. All told, some 450,000 students participate nationally.

In a study last year, Indiana University professor Suzanne Eckes found that none of the states with voucher programs prohibits discrimination against LGBT students.

Lighthouse defends its right to educate children according to its values, saying that Christians are state taxpayers, too, and should be allowed to fund institutions of their choice with their money.

"Parents are free to choose which school best comports with their religious convictions," Brian Bailey, an attorney who is serving as the school's spokesman, said in a statement. "For a real choice and thus real liberty to exist, the government may not impose its own orthodoxy and homogenize all schools to conform to politically correct attitudes and ideologies."

Former Lighthouse student Mary Wegener, 24, says some of her classmates at the school were gay and received love and care. Bailey confirmed that the school did admit some students who were "tempted by same-sex intimacy," saying "we teach our students to flee these sins."

Wegener sees both sides of the story, but says a religious school cannot function contrary to its core beliefs.

"If they (Lighthouse) are going to be a Christian school, they can't conform to everything else, because then that would be a private school that knocked out the Christian name."

Carissa Dollar, 46, of Indianapolis, who has a transgender daughter, is unconvinced.

"I have a problem with public funds going to a private institution who then make decisions that would be discriminatory to any group," Dollar said. "It's wrong if an LGBT student, or even if someone in their family identifies on the LGBT spectrum, could be denied admission to the school."

Dick Komer, senior attorney with Institute for Justice, a libertarian public interest law firm, said that federal law has protections against discrimination on the basis of race, national identity, sex and religion, but they do not extend to LGBT individuals.

"If the people who are grilling DeVos believe that sex includes sexual orientation and gender identity, then they should propose amendments to the statues that they have written and given her to enforce," Komer said. "The Congress is supposed to write the law, the agency is supposed to administer what Congress has given them. And Congress hasn't given it to them."

Eckes, the Indiana University professor, said states must create protections to ensure that any benefit they create is available to all. She said that decades ago some private schools used their own interpretation of the Bible to exclude African-American students and federal protections were necessary to stop those practices.

"If you accept public money in the form of a voucher then you shouldn't be able to discriminate whether it's based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability or sexual orientation," Eckes said. "If you agree to take that public money, then there are certain rules that you need to follow."

Lindsey Burke, director of education policy studies at the conservative Heritage Foundation, disagrees.

"Racism was based on identity and skin color and had no reasonable basis," Burke said. "This is about whether a student, a family is going to live out their communal beliefs of the school that they have chosen to attend. These are intentional communities that are built upon a moral code that they have decided on."

Lily Eskelsen Garcia, president of the National Education Association, the country's largest teachers' union, said the Trump administration's attempt to fund private schools takes away money from public schools, where discrimination is not allowed.

"Every child, every blessed child has the legal, civil and the human right to attend their public school, but no one can say that about a private school," Eskelsen Garcia said. "Why would you get public dollars to a school that discriminates against students?"

___

Danilova reported from Washington.
WASHINGTON (AP) - Getting nowhere with her father, liberal advocacy groups have been looking for an ally in Ivanka Trump. They haven't had much luck.

In recent weeks, activists have been appealing to the younger Trump for help on climate change, international labor conditions and immigration. But the first daughter, an influential adviser to President Donald Trump in her own right, largely has sought to stay out of the fray. Still the efforts underscore the politically charged position she occupies as she seeks to advance a positive agenda while avoiding weighing in publicly on her father's more controversial policies.

The most high-profile campaign directed at the president's daughter has come from New York-based China Labor Watch, which has been investigating working conditions at factories in China that have made Ivanka Trump products. The group on Thursday renewed a call for her to speak out about the detention of activists involved in the investigation and on their findings about labor conditions. They said they have sent a second letter to her at the White House to raise concerns.

FILE - In this June 13, 2017, file photo, President Donald Trump listens as his daughter, Ivanka Trump, speaks at a workforce development roundtable at Waukesha County Technical College in Pewaukee, Wis. Frustrated with her father, liberal advocacy groups are turning some of their focus to first daughter Ivanka Trump. In recent weeks, some activists have tried to pressure Ivanka Trump, appealing for her help on climate change, international labor conditions and immigration. The first daughter, an influential adviser to President Donald Trump in her own right, has sought to stay out of the fray. But the efforts underscore the politically charged position she occupies. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Ivanka Trump's brand has sought to distance itself from the manufacturer under scrutiny, saying the company last made its products three months ago.

Trump, who spent the past week promoting the administration's efforts on job training, did not respond to requests for comment.

With her focus on issues that typically draw liberal or bipartisan support, Ivanka Trump has left many with an impression that she does not share some of her father's policies. But she avoided weighing in publicly on her father's travel ban, border wall, proposed budget cuts or the Paris agreement, leading liberal critics to question her influence.

Now some groups are trying to spur her to act.

Before the president announced he would exit the Paris climate accord, the Natural Resources Defense Council started an online petition asking people to email and call Ivanka Trump to push her father to stay in the deal. The call for action implored people to "raise a massive outcry" and ask her to "do everything in her power to persuade the president to keep our promise."

"As we began hearing he was leaning in the direction of pulling out, we threw a Hail Mary," said Ben Smith, the group's digital advocacy director, adding that they sought to "appeal to what seems to be a well-reported story that she's sympathetic."

Smith said 50,000 people signed the petition, "which is on the higher end of the performance scale for us."

Last week, Amnesty International launched a campaign that seeks to educate Ivanka Trump on their efforts to shut down a residential center in Pennsylvania that houses detained immigrant parents and children. The advocates say the facility, which has a contract with the Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is a detention center.

"She says she cares about women and kids and child care. She says she wants to use this power she now has. We're following up on that," said Naureen Shah, senior director of campaigns for the U.S. section of Amnesty International.

Shah added: "It's not a shaming campaign. She says she wants to do it."

"Democrats do not have many lines into the White House, they don't have a lot of different ways to influence the president," said Democratic strategist Lis Smith. "His daughter remains one of the few ways they are able to get to him."

In interviews, Ivanka Trump has stressed that this is her father's administration and has said she airs her views with her father privately. During a recent interview on "Fox and Friends," she expressed surprise about the "level of viciousness" that the administration had encountered in Washington, a statement that some found curious given her father's aggressive rhetoric.

Saying her father's administration wants to do "big things," she added: "I was not expecting the intensity of this experience, but this isn't supposed to be easy."

She moved her family to Washington before her father's inauguration. She serves as an unpaid aide to the president and stepped away from executive roles running her brand and at the Trump Organization, though she retains ownership of the brand. She has been more visible lately, working on a plan for paid family leave that is included in the president's budget, taking part in the president's first foreign trip and appearing with her father to talk about job training.

Republican consultant Alex Conant, who worked on Sen. Marco Rubio's presidential bid, said the advocacy campaigns were unlikely to make a great impact on the first daughter. "As long as she has a thick skin, those campaigns will be unsuccessful and she'll remain effective," he said.
TOKYO (AP) - Japan's coast guard is investigating why it took nearly an hour for a deadly collision between a U.S. Navy destroyer and a container ship to be reported.

A coast guard official said Monday they are trying to find out what the crew of the Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal was doing before reporting the collision off Japan's coast to authorities 50 minutes later.

The ACX Crystal collided with the USS Fitzgerald off Japan's coast, killing seven of the destroyer's crew of nearly 300. The ships collided early Saturday morning, when the Navy said most of the 300 sailors on board would have been sleeping. Authorities have declined to speculate on a cause while the crash remains under investigation.

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

A track of the much-larger container ship's route by MarineTraffic, a vessel-tracking service, shows it made a sudden turn as if trying to avoid something at about 1:30 a.m., before continuing eastward. It then made a U-turn and returned around 2:30 a.m. to the area near the collision.

The coast guard initially said the collision occurred at 2:20 a.m. because the Philippine ship had reported it at 2:25 a.m. and said it just happened. After interviewing Filipino crewmembers, the coast guard has changed the collision time to 1:30 a.m.

Coast guard official Tetsuya Tanaka said they are trying to resolve what happened during the 50 minutes.

He said officials are planning to get hold of a device with communication records to examine further details of the crash. Japan's Transport Safety Board also started an accident investigation on Sunday.

Adding to the confusion, a U.S. Navy official said it is sticking with the 2:20 a.m. timing for the crash that he said had been reported by the Fitzgerald.

Asked about the earlier time cited by the coast guard, Navy spokesman Cmdr. Ron Flanders said, "That is not our understanding." He said any differences would have to be clarified in the investigation.

Nanami Meguro, a spokeswoman for NYK Line, the ship's operator, agreed with the earlier timing.

Meguro said the ship was "operating as usual" until the collision at 1:30 a.m., as shown on a ship tracking service that the company uses. She said the ship reported to the coast guard at 2:25 a.m., but she could not provide details about what the ship was doing for nearly an hour.

"Because it was in an emergency, the crewmembers may not have been able to place a call," she said.

Coast guard officials are investigating the case as possible professional negligence, but no criminal charges have been pressed so far.

On Monday, the Navy's 7th Fleet identified the seven sailors who died. Navy divers recovered the bodies after the severely damaged Fitzgerald returned to the fleet's home in Yokosuka, Japan, with assistance from tug boats.

The victims were Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia; Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California; Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut; Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas; Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California; Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland; and Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer said President Donald Trump and the entire administration was sending their thoughts and prayers to the sailors' families. The incident was a "sobering reminder of the dangers" faced by the men and women of the U.S. military every day, Spicer said.

In a statement, acting Navy Secretary Sean Stackley said, "We are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our fellow shipmates. ... As details emerge, we can all be proud of the heroic effort by the crew to tend to the needs of those injured and save the ship from further damage while returning safely to port."

He thanked "our Japanese allies" for their swift assistance, and said the Navy will fully investigate the cause.

Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy ordered flags flown at half-staff there in memory of Huynh.

Huynh's sister, Lan Huynh, told WVIT-TV that the family is coping as best they can.

She described her brother as "selfless" and said he always "had the brightest smile."

The mother of another sailor on the ship said her son kept diving in his flooded berth after the crash to try to save his shipmates until it began running out of air pockets, while other survivors - believing their ship was under attack - hurried to man the guns.

Mia Sykes of Raleigh, North Carolina, told The Associated Press on Sunday that her 19-year-old son, Brayden Harden, was knocked out of his bunk by the impact and water immediately began filling the berth.

Sykes said her son told her that four men in his berth died, including those sleeping on bunks above and below him, while three died in the berth above his.

She said she hopes her son, from Herrin, Illinois, can come home to be with family as he works through what happened. "You have to realize most of them are 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds living with guilt. But I told him, 'There's a reason you're still here and make that count.'"

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Associated Press writer Yuri Kageyama contributed to this story.

The container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula on Saturday, June 17, 2017, is berthed at the Yokohama port near Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The ships collided about early Saturday, when the Navy said most of the 300 sailors on board would have been sleeping, and authorities have declined to speculate on a cause while the crash remains under investigation.(Hiroshi Kashimura/Kyodo News via AP)

The container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula on Saturday, June 17, 2017, is berthed at the Yokohama port near Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The ships collided about early Saturday, when the Navy said most of the 300 sailors on board would have been sleeping, and authorities have declined to speculate on a cause while the crash remains under investigation.(Hiroshi Kashimura/Kyodo News via AP)

A screen shows a news program reporting about a collision between a U.S. destroyer and a container ship off Japan, in Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The USS Fitzgerald collided Saturday, June 17, with a Philippine-flagged container ship four times its size off the Japanese coast. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara)

Damaged part of USS Fitzgerald is seen at the U.S. Naval base in Yokosuka, southwest of Tokyo Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found a number of sailors' bodies Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship Saturday in the busy sea off Japan. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

Damaged part of USS Fitzgerald is seen at the U.S. Naval base in Yokosuka, southwest of Tokyo Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found a number of sailors' bodies Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship in the busy sea off Japan, but a spokeswoman said not all seven missing had been accounted for. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

This screenshot provided by vessel-tracking service MarineTraffic shows a track of the route of the container ship ACX Crystal that collided with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off Shimoda in the Izu Peninsula, southwest of Tokyo, Saturday, June 16, 2017, killing seven U.S. sailors. The track of the container ship's route by MarineTraffic shows it made a sudden turn as if trying to avoid something at about 1:30 a.m., before continuing eastward. It then made a U-turn and returned around 2:20 a.m. to the area near the collision. (MarineTraffic via AP)

Damaged USS Fitzgerald is seen at Yokosuka Naval Base, south of Tokyo, Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found the bodies of missing sailors Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship Saturday in the busy sea off Japan, the Navy said. (Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, Junes 17, 2017, photo, the damaged USS Fitzgerald is seen off Yokosuka, near Tokyo, Japan, after the Navy destroyer collided with a merchant ship. The U.S. Navy says the bodies of sailors who went missing in the collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship have been found aboard the stricken destroyer. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP, File)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal goes through the Tokyo Bay after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula early in the day. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Shunpei Ishii/Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula earlier in the day, is berthed at the Oi Container Terminal in Tokyo. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula earlier in the day, is berthed at the Oi Container Terminal in Tokyo. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut. Huynh is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California. Douglass is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas. Hernandez is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland. Martin is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California. Sibayan is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia. Rigsby is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)
BAGHDAD (AP) - The Iraqi prime minister is reaching out to regional powers such as Saudi Arabia and Iran for support for his anti-terror campaign.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office says he left for the kingdom on Monday, his first stop on a three-day regional tour that will also include Kuwait and Iran. The statement says the visit aims to boost bilateral relations and seeks more cooperation in fighting terrorism.

The visit comes as Gulf Arab states are embroiled in a major dispute with Qatar over allegations the small nation backs terror groups and that its policies, including its support for Islamist groups, threaten the region. Qatar denies the charges and says the decision to isolate it is politically motivated.

Al-Abadi has said that his government will not take sides in the dispute.
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) - Recreational sales of marijuana in Nevada may not begin next month after all.

A judge added to the uncertainty Tuesday when he extended a temporary order barring the state from issuing pot distribution licenses to existing medical marijuana dispensaries so they can begin recreational sales July 1.

Carson City District Judge James Wilson said in a 11-page ruling that the ballot measure voters approved in November dictates that licensed alcohol wholesalers have the exclusive rights to pot distribution licenses for 18 months.

FILE- In this March 24, 2017 file photo, Nevada state Sen. Don Gustavson, R-Sparks, smells a sample of marijuana as Christopher Price, a ''budtender'' at the Blum medical marijuana dispensary, describes the operation during a brief tour a the store in Reno, Nev. Nevada voters legalized recreational marijuana in November, and officials are trying to put rules in place to start selling it on July 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Scott Sonner, File)

State regulators - who earlier indicated they would need at least some legal dispensaries to serve the dual role of retailer and distributor to meet the anticipated demand - said late Tuesday they remain determined to launch the first sales next month. But they admitted they aren't sure how, or if, that will happen.

Wilson ruled the regulation the Nevada Tax Commission adopted in May that could have opened distribution up to others was invalid, and he granted a preliminary injunction scrapping the license application deadline that passed May 31.

He said the members of the Independent Alcohol Distributors of Nevada demonstrated they will suffer irreparable harm if he doesn't block the state from licensing existing marijuana businesses as distributors.

Wilson said the Tax Commission engaged in "ad-hoc rulemaking" outside the legal process when it made a preliminary determination earlier this year that the liquor industry didn't have enough interest in entering the pot business to ensure enough distributors would seek applications to meet the anticipated high demand. The commission cited alcohol industry concerns that their federal liquor licenses could be jeopardized given pot possession is still illegal under federal law.

"The department has not determined whether exclusively licensing liquor wholesalers as temporary marijuana distributors will result in an insufficient number of licenses," Wilson wrote. He said there's no evidence the department has determined what the likely demand for retail marijuana will be or how much demand any particular alcohol distributor licensee can handle.

It has been legal for adults to possess up to an ounce of marijuana in Nevada and consume it in private residences since the beginning of this year. But currently only medical dispensaries can sell it and only to people with medical cards.

Under the direction of Gov. Brian Sandoval, state tax officials have had a goal of launching an "early start" recreational program July 1 to get a jump on millions of dollars in tax revenue before a permanent regulatory system is required to be in place Jan. 1, 2018.

The judge's order limiting licenses strictly to liquor wholesalers is the biggest roadblock they have faced yet because only five liquor wholesalers have applied for pot distribution licenses - compared with more than 80 applications from existing marijuana businesses - and none has met the legal requirements.

The Nevada Department of Taxation is reviewing the court's decision with the attorney general's office and "will explore all legal avenues to proceed with the program as provided in the regulations," department spokeswoman Stephanie Klapstein said in a statement.

"We do not have any qualified liquor wholesale dealers to license as marijuana distributors at this time," Klapstein said. She said the agency is notifying applicants about "what they need to do to make their applications complete so we can further process them."

"We hope for a quick response from those who are seeking exclusivity in marijuana distribution," she said. "We are committed to ensuring that the vote of the people to provide for the legal purchase of marijuana from a strictly regulated market will proceed on July 1."

As many as 60 medical dispensaries certified as of May could be eligible for recreational sales beginning next month, but only if they can be served by licensed distributors.

"There's no recreational marijuana program if there's no distributors," Nevada Department of Taxation Director Deonne Contine testified during a hearing Monday before Wilson. "We cannot have sales on July 1 - or anytime."

Wilson agreed with the alcohol distributors' argument they will "very likely be shut out of the marijuana business entirely if the department issues distribution licenses to non-alcohol distributors."

That's because under the current medical program, most dispensaries are authorized to serve as their own middleman, transporting products between cultivation operations and retail stores.

Kevin Benson, a lawyer representing the alcohol wholesalers, said extending distribution licenses to medical dispensaries for recreational purposes would render any licenses granted to alcohol distributors worthless.

"There's not going to be any business left for the alcohol distributors because most of the medical dispensaries are already distributing to themselves. They will have no need for a third-party," he said.
BRUSSELS (AP) - The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia for a year over its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

EU foreign ministers said in a statement Monday that the 28-nation bloc "remains committed to fully implement its non-recognition policy" of Russia's seizure of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol.

The sanctions are now set to run until June 23, 2018, and apply to EU citizens and companies.

They ban the import of products from Crimea and Sevastopol, halt any European investment or real estate purchases and stop cruise ships from stopping there.

The export of some goods and technologies that could be used for transport, telecommunications or in the energy sector - particularly oil, gas or mineral exploration - is also banned.
PARIS (AP) - French President Emmanuel Macron is poised to rearrange his Cabinet after his new centrist party engineered a landslide in the country's parliamentary election, enabling the government to quickly start passing its first big laws.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is expected to quickly resign, a largely symbolic move required after a legislative election. Government spokesman Christophe Castaner said Monday on RTL radio a new government to be named in the next few days.

Since Macron's new party, Republic on the Move!, won an absolute majority in the 577-seat National Assembly, Castaner said the government reshuffling would be "technical and not far-reaching." He refused to say whether ministers who have come under suspicion of corruption suspicions would keep their jobs.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier, right, watch demonstration flights as part of the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

Macron's plans might have been slightly delayed by an attempted attack Monday afternoon on the security forces on the Champs-Elysees.

Interior Minister Gerard Collomb went near the scene and said he will present a bill Wednesday at a Cabinet meeting to extend France's state of emergency from July 15, its current expiration date, until Nov. 1. He will also talk about a new law aiming at maintaining "a high security level" beyond the end of the state of emergency.

After Macron vigorously campaigned on a promise to renew France's political landscape, other parties also made efforts to promote new faces. The victorious newcomers started arriving Monday at the National Assembly to learn their way around before the first parliament session next week.

The National Assembly says new lawmakers' average age is down from 55 to 49 compared to the previous term. The youngest is 23, the oldest is 79. The number of female lawmakers is the highest ever at France's lower house of parliament, reaching 38.7 percent - up from 26.8 percent. Three-quarters are starting their first term at the National Assembly. Some previously had local political experience, but many are newcomers to politics.

Republic on the Move! and its allies from the Modem party took 350 seats - more than the 289 seats needed for a majority, according to the Interior Ministry's definitive results.

Macron's government is expected to pass its first set of measures during a special parliamentary session starting on June 27 - laws to strengthen security, improve ethics in politics and reform France's restrictive labor laws.

The conservative Republicans and their allies are the main opposition group in parliament, winning 136 seats. The Socialist Party, which dominated the outgoing Assembly, was the main loser in Sunday's vote, winning only 30 seats. Far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon's party won 17 seats, over the minimum of 15 needed to form a group, a tool that provides extra funds and speaking time.

The far-right party National Front party won 8 seats - up from 2 in the outgoing Assembly - including one for its leader, Marine Le Pen.

Le Pen on Monday praised Sunday's vote as "historic" result but denounced an "anti-democratic voting system" that she says doesn't represent the "real weight" of her far-right party in the country.

The National Front won 8.75 percent of the votes nationwide, which is more than the Socialists and Melenchon's far-left party, yet it has less seats.

"We're worth at least 80 (seats) in my opinion, given the energy we will use to promote our views," Le Pen told a news conference.

Others agree that France's current two-round voting system favors mainstream parties and their allies. Collomb said the government wants to reduce the number of lawmakers in the future and change the voting system to introduce a partial proportional representation, which would give smaller parties better representation.

French President Emmanuel Macron meets people after voting in the final round of parliamentary elections, in the northern seaside town of Le Touquet, France, Sunday, June 18, 2017. French voters are choosing legislators for the National Assembly in the second round of parliamentary elections expected to hand a huge majority to President Emmanuel Macron's new centrist movement, allowing him to advance his pro-business, pro-European agenda. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

French far-right candidate, Marine Le Pen poses for a photograph after her speech during the second round of parliamentary elections in Henin Beaumont, Northern France, Sunday, June 18, 2017. French voters are casting ballots Sunday in the final round of parliamentary elections that could clinch President Emmanuel Macron's hold on power, as his fledgling party appears set to rout mainstream rivals and turn politics as usual on its head. (AP Photo/Michel Spingler)

A voter exits a voting booth after voting for the second round of parliamentary elections, in Lyon, central France, Sunday, June 18, 2017. French voters are choosing legislators for the National Assembly in the second round of parliamentary elections expected to hand a huge majority to President Emmanuel Macron's new centrist movement, allowing him to advance his pro-business, pro-European agenda. (AP Photo/Laurent Cipriani)

French President Emmanuel Macron, 2nd right, poses with NASA administrator, Robert M. Lightfoot, 2nd left, Jean-Yves Le Gall, President of the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), right, and French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, while visiting the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron is seated in the cockpit of an Airbus A400M turboprop transport plane while flying from Villacoublay military airbase near Paris to Le Bourget airport, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron is seated in the cockpit of an Airbus A400M turboprop transport plane while flying from Villacoublay military airbase near Paris to Le Bourget airport, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron listens to Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier during demonstration flights as part of the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron, center, French defense minister Sylvie Goulard and Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier, right, watch demonstration flights as part of the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, north of Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron is seated in the cockpit of an Airbus A400M turboprop transport plane before taking off from Villacoublay military airbase near Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)

French President Emmanuel Macron is seated in the cockpit of an Airbus A400M turboprop transport plane before taking off from Villacoublay military airbase near Paris, Monday, June 19, 2017. Macron landed Monday at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, Pool)
BAMAKO, Mali (AP) - An al-Qaida-linked Islamic militant group said Monday it staged an attack the previous day on a resort area in Mali popular with foreigners, killing five people, including a Portuguese soldier who had been serving in the European Union mission to stabilize this West African country wracked by mounting extremism.

The recently formed Mali-based Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen extremist group has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadi websites.

A Malian soldier and three civilians - a Chinese citizen, a Malian, and a French-Gabonese dual national - also were slain in the worst terror attack to strike Bamako since late 2015.

Malian Police officers take position outside Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Monday, June. 19, 2017. Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the Malian victim worked for the European delegation in Bamako.

The attack struck a resort area that was considered safe enough that it was an approved rest and recreation location for soldiers with the EU mission. It was not immediately clear how the attackers managed to overpower the security staff and shoot at guests.

Mali's special forces arrived on the scene not long after the reports of gunfire erupting from Campement Kangaba, known for its three swimming pools and serene surroundings as an escape from the bustling capital's heat and traffic.

Initially the country's security minister said one of the wounded attackers had managed to escape but on Monday officials said they had accounted for all the jihadis.

"At this hour, all of the terrorists have been killed. The situation is under control," Mali's Security Minister Salif Traore told The Associated Press.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene Sunday afternoon, with one man saying the first jihadi on the scene arrived by motorcycle shouting "Allah Akbar." Three others subsequently arrived in a vehicle and began firing their weapons. One of the attackers was subdued by a French soldier who happened to be at Campement Kangaba on the weekend, according to a witness at the scene. The attacker was wounded and later died.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, which took place amid the final week of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. However, the attack resembled a number of others carried out by the local affiliate of al-Qaida in West Africa over the past two years.

Sunday's violence also came about a week after the U.S. State Department warned of possible attacks on Western diplomatic missions and other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent.

Religious extremism in Mali once was limited to northern areas, prompting the French military in 2013 to lead a military operation to oust jihadis from power in the major towns in the north. But the militants have continued targeting Malian forces and peacekeepers, making it the most dangerous U.N. mission in the world.

There are no French troops based in Bamako, but about 2,000 French troops are based in northern Mali fighting Islamic extremists. French President Emmanuel Macron was informed about the attack and was following the events carefully, according to an official in his office.

In recent years, the extremists have become more brazen, attacking sites frequented by Westerners in the capital, Bamako.

In March 2015, five people died when militants hit a popular restaurant in the capital. A devastating attack on the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako later that year left 20 dead - six Malians and 14 foreigners.

That attack was jointly claimed by both the regional al-Qaida affiliate and a group known as Al Mourabitoun, which was founded by extremist Moktar Belmoktar after he fell out with al-Qaida leaders. In a video released in March, jihadis said those two were joining together along with two Mali-based terror groups, merging as Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen.

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Associated Press writers Lorne Cook in Brussels; Carley Petesch and Krista Larson in Dakar, Senegal; and Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.

Forensic workers prepare to enter Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Monday, June 19, 2017. Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

A Malian police office patrols outside Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Monday, June. 19, 2017. Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

A Malian police officer stationed on an armoured personnel vehicle outside Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Monday, June. 19, 2017. Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

Malian security drive towards Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Monday, June. 19, 2017. Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

United Nations armored personnel vehicles are stationed with an ambulance outside Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Sunday, June 18, 2017. A security official says suspected jihadists have attacked the resort in Mali's capital that is popular with foreigners on the weekends. The official with the U.N. mission known as MINUSMA, said people had been killed and wounded but gave no immediate toll. There also were believed to be hostages inside the luxury resort area. The people inside the Campement Kangaba hotel come from multiple nationalities, he added. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

A sign points to Campement Kangaba, a hotel resort, near Bamako, Mali, Sunday, June 18, 2017. Suspected jihadists attacked the hotel resort Sunday in Mali's capital, taking hostages at a spot popular with foreigners on the weekends. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)

Fire can be seen by the swimming pool of the Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali, Sunday, June 18, 2017. Suspected jihadists attacked the hotel resort Sunday in Mali's capital, taking hostages at a spot popular with foreigners on the weekends. (AP Photo/Baba Ahmed)
LONDON (AP) - The Latest on a van plowing into a crowd outside a London mosque (all times local):

8:30 p.m.

The United States says it "strongly condemns" an attack near a mosque in London and that the attack appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers.

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert says the U.S. stands with the U.K. and is ready to provide any help that British officials would find helpful. She's calling the incident a "terrorist attack."

A large white van driven by a man identified as 47-year-old Darren Osborne apparently swerved into a group of Muslims who were leaving evening prayers early Monday. At least nine people were injured.

Nauert says the U.S. is extending sympathy to the families and communities of the victims and hopes the wounded recover quickly.

She says the U.S. commends the first responders and the bystanders for their courage in apprehending the attacker until police arrived.

The State Department says the U.S. and the U.K. remain committed to fighting "the plague of terrorism."

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7:10 p.m.

The White House says President Donald Trump is receiving updates on the incident in north London in which a car plowed into a crowd of pedestrians near a mosque.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer says the administration's thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.

Spicer says the U.S. has "made it very clear to our British allies that we stand ready to provide any support or assistance they need."

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6:45 p.m.

British media have named the suspect in Monday's mosque attack as 47-year-old Darren Osborne, a father of four who was living in Cardiff, Wales.

British Security Minister Ben Wallace said authorities were aware of rising far-right activity but were not aware of the suspect prior to the attack near a north London mosque.

The large white van driven by Osborne apparently swerved into a group of Muslims who were leaving evening prayers. At least nine people were injured. Police are treating the incident as a terror attack.

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4:50 p.m.

London police say a 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder as well as attempted murder after a car plowed into a crowd of pedestrians near a north London mosque.

The man, who is in custody at a south London police station, was arrested earlier on suspicion of attempted murder.

The Metropolitan Police said in a statement that the man was detained by members of the public at the scene of the attack early Monday.

Authorities say a residential area in Cardiff, Wales, is also being searched.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu says: "This is being treated as a terrorist incident and is being investigated by the Counter Terrorism Command."

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4:10 p.m.

The World Jewish Congress is condemning the attack on a crowd outside a London mosque, saying all people must "stand together to defend the critical values of tolerance and freedom that make our society strong."

WJC President Ronald Lauder said in a statement Monday that the organization stands together with the people of London "in confronting another horrible act of terror."

He says "I condemn the abhorrent and vicious attack carried out against innocent people gathered to worship during the holy month of Ramadan."

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3:40 p.m.

Community leaders are praising a local imam for restraining a mob that had surrounded the man accused of driving a van into a crowd of worshippers near Finsbury Park Mosque in London.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud told reporters Monday that he and "other brothers" were able to prevent onlookers from beating up the suspect and held him until police arrived. The 48-year-old suspect had been surrounded by an angry crowd that is believed to have pulled him from the van used in the attack.

Mahmoud says "By God's grace, we were able to protect him from harm."

The ambulance service says nine people injured in the attack were taken to local hospitals. One man died at the scene, but it was not immediately clear whether he was killed by the attacker's actions or some other cause.

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2:15 p.m.

London's police commander says the van attack near Finsbury Park Mosque was clearly an attack on Muslims.

Commander Cressida Dick, speaking Monday in the London neighborhood of Finsbury Park, says people in Muslim communities will see more of their police protecting them in the coming days.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, meanwhile, paid tribute to the local community who apprehended the attacker near the mosque, especially the religious leader who kept him safe from mob violence.

Khan says all these incidents are attacks on the city's shared values. He vows "we will not allow these terrorists to succeed ... we will stay a strong city." Khan also declared that British officials have "zero tolerance" for hate crimes.

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1:55 p.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May is visiting London's Finsbury Park Mosque, meeting with members of a community trying to come to terms with an attack in which a van barreled into a crowd of worshippers leaving Ramadan prayers.

May met with representatives from a variety of faiths only hours after the incident early Monday.

The visit has a political dimension. May has been widely criticized for her response to a massive fire in a high-rise apartment block last week that has killed at least 79 people.

May was accused of insensitivity and failing to exhibit leadership for a bungled response on the first day of the tower fire disaster. In particular, she visited the devastated fire site to meet with emergency responders but took days to meet with survivors, hundreds of which were made homeless by the blaze.

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1:35 p.m.

The German government is offering its condolences over an attack on worshippers outside a London mosque, which it says appears to have been an act of "blind hatred."

Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, said Monday that the government's sympathy goes to the victims and their relatives, the London mosque community and "all our friends in London and Britain who are barely able to find peace at the moment."

Seibert calls the attack "an act of blind hatred - and that would give it a place in the terrorist acts of recent weeks and months."

Ten people were injured in the early Monday attack on worshippers coming out of the Finsbury Park Mosque in London.

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12:55 p.m.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque and other faith leaders in London have held a moment of silence for victims of a driver who plowed into a crowd of worshippers leaving a Ramadan prayer service.

After the silence, Mohammed Kozbar read a brief statement declaring that an "an attack on one faith is an attack on all faiths."

Kozbar was surrounded by leaders of other faiths in the community and by Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, who is the local member of Parliament for the area.

A 48-year-old white man has been arrested and charged with attempted murder and police say they're investigating it as a terror attack. Ten people have been injured. A man who was being given first aid at the time died at the scene, but it's not clear if he died as a direct result of the attack.

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12:45 p.m.

Prime Minister Theresa May has praised the bravery of members of the public who detained the driver of a van that plowed into a crowd of worshippers outside a London mosque.

Speaking outside her Downing Street office, a somber May says the driver of the van was a 48-year-old white man.

May says he was bravely detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police.

The chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House tells Sky News a local imam intervened to keep the van driver from being attacked by the crowd outside the Finsbury Park Mosque.

Eight people were in the hospital and two more were treated at the site of the incident. One person died at the scene but it's not clear if he died from the attack or something else.

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12:30 p.m.

British security officials say hate crimes directed at Muslims have increased nearly five-fold in the wake of several attacks in Britain blamed on Islamic extremists.

An official said Monday that counterterrorism officials were closely monitoring terror activity linked to far-right groups but most of the recent attacks have been traced back to individuals rather than groups.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak about the ongoing investigation into an attack on worshippers outside a mosque in London. Ten people were injured when a 48-year-old white man plowed a van into a crowd of people leaving evening prayers. Police say they're treating it as a terrorist incident.

In the past three months, mosques across Britain have reported several attacks against worshippers and places of worship.

- By Paisley Dodds in London

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12:05 p.m.

Prime Minister Theresa May has responded to complaints from some in the Muslim community that police failed to quickly respond to the attack on the north London mosque and declare it terrorism.

Speaking outside her Downing Street office Monday, May said officers responded to the attack in one minute and declared it a terror attack within eight minutes.

May says hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed and she says the government will "stop at nothing" to defeat extremism.

Ten people have been injured in the attack on Muslim worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque, with eight of them sent to hospitals. Police are investigating whether a man who died while being given first aid at the scene was killed by the attack or something else.

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12 p.m.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May has described an attack on a north London mosque attack as a "sickening" attempt to destroy liberties that unite Britain, such as freedom of worship.

May says the man who plowed a van into a crowd of people leaving evening prayers acted alone and that people outside the mosque apprehended him.

Ten people were injured and police are investigating whether a man who died while being given first aid at the scene died from the attack or something else.

May praised the resolve of the people of London in responding to the incident and said extra police resources have already been deployed to assure the public in a time of tension.

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11:40 a.m.

Muslim leaders in London are appealing for calm after a van was driven deliberately into a crowd of worshippers leaving evening prayers at a mosque. Ten people have been injured, with eight sent to hospitals. Police are investigating whether a man who died at the scene was killed by the attack or something else.

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, tells Sky News there is no "need to react with tension."

Kacimi says the attacker shouted at the crowd, but that the local imam intervened to save his life.

Kacimi says people grabbed the attacker outside the Finsbury Park Mosque and started hitting him. He says the imam "went there and saved him. He saved his life basically."

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11:35 a.m.

London police say they're investigating whether the death of a man outside a London mosque was the direct result of a van plowing into a crowd of Muslim worshippers.

Ten people were injured in the attack, which police are treating as a terrorist incident. Eight have been hospitalized. A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police say in a statement that a worshipper was receiving first aid outside the mosque at the time of the attack. He died at the scene, but they say it's not clear if he died from the van attack or something else.

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8:30 a.m.

London police say one suspect has been detained in an apparent early-morning attack on worshippers standing outside a mosque.

Police say incident has all the "hallmarks" of a terrorist" incident.

Police said a suspect was quickly and calmly turned over to the police, and that no one else was found in the van.

One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured.

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7:50 a.m.

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd says police "immediately" treated a fatal incident outside a London mosque as a suspected terrorist attack.

One man outside the Finsbury Park mosque died at the scene, a van driver was arrested and eight people were taken to hospitals following the early morning incident.

Rudd, who is in charge for government law enforcement, said: "Londoners have been hit with a series of attacks and have been nothing short of heroic." she said Monday.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, has complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

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7:20 a.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May says she will chair an emergency meeting Monday morning following a van crash in which a man died at the scene. Eight injured people were taken to hospitals, and a suspect was arrested.

May said: "All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene."

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, says the incident was a "cowardly attack" on worshippers. He complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

Police say no other suspects have been identified, but their investigation continues.

The force added: "Due to the nature of this incident extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan."

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6:50 a.m.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque says the van crash that hit worshippers was a "cowardly attack" and urged Muslims going to mosques to be vigilant.

Mohammed Kozbar said the attack early Monday morning was no different than the recent attacks on London Bridge and Manchester Arena and said the Muslim community is "in shock."

Kozbar complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

Police said the driver was arrested and the crash was being investigated as suspected terrorism. One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

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6:30 a.m.

Video filmed in the immediate aftermath of a van striking worshippers near a London mosque showed a Caucasian man being detained by police.

Someone in the crowd yelled to others not to harm the man while he was taken into custody. The video of the crash early Monday morning was accessed by the AP. Police have said the driver was a 48-year-old man who was arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. They are investigating the crash as suspected terrorism.

Someone in the crowd is heard yelling, "No one touch him! No one! No one!"

The crash occurred near the Finsbury Park Mosque as worshippers were leaving after Ramadan prayers.

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5:45 a.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May says she will chair an emergency session of the security Cabinet later Monday after a van crash in London that is being investigating as possible terrorism.

A van struck several worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque early Monday morning after Ramadan prayers.

The driver was arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. May says police are treating the crash as a potential terrorist attack.

One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

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5:30 a.m.

A leader of the Muslim Council of Britain has called for extra security at mosques after a van struck worshippers leaving prayers at the Finsbury Park mosque.

Police have said they are investigating the crash as suspected terrorism and have arrested the driver, a 48-year-old man who was taken to a hospital as a precaution. One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

The group's general secretary, Harun Khan, said that eyewitnesses saw the van driver hit a number of Muslims.

"During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship. It appears from eyewitness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia," he said.

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5:15 a.m.

Police say the driver of a van that hit pedestrians on a London road is a 48-year-old man who has been arrested and taken to a hospital.

The van struck a crowd of worshippers leaving a mosque early Monday morning, killing one person and injuring several others. Eight of the injured were taken to hospitals and the rest were treated at the scene.

Several hundred worshippers would have been in the area at the time after attending prayers as part of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Police said the Counter Terrorism Command was investigating the crash. Britain's terrorist alert has been set at "severe" meaning an attack is highly likely.

British Prime Minister Theresa May arrives near the scene where a van struck pedestrians, in Finsbury Park, north London, Monday, June 19, 2017. London police, already stretched by a series of major incidents around the capital, are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public after a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

A forensic tent, center, stands next to a van, in white, at Finsbury Park in north London after the vehicle struck pedestrians Monday, June 19, 2017. Police said a man who was driving the car has been arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP)

A police officer talks to local people at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A driver plowed into a crowd of Muslim worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday in an attack that police said they were investigating as a terrorist incident. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

A forensic officer attends the scene where a van struck pedestrians in Finsbury Park, north London, Monday, June 19, 2017. London police, already stretched by a series of major incidents around the capital, are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public after a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

A police officer informs a member of the public that the route is closed near the scene where a van struck pedestrians in Finsbury Park, north London, Monday, June 19, 2017. London police, already stretched by a series of major incidents around the capital, are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public after a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Armed police officers man a cordon in Finsbury Park, north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP)

A van is seen near Finsbury Park station after the vehicle struck pedestrians in north London, Monday June 19, 2017. Police said a man who was driving the car has been arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)

A police forensic tent is erected at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (Yui Mok/PA via AP)

A police photographer records the scene at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP)

A member of emergency services and forensic officers works on a road near Finsbury Park station after a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)

British Prime Minister Theresa May arrives near the scene where a van struck pedestrians, in Finsbury Park, north London, Monday, June 19, 2017. London police, already stretched by a series of major incidents around the capital, are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public after a driver plowed into a crowd of people leaving a mosque early Monday. One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A driver plowed into a crowd of Muslim worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday in an attack that police said they were investigating as a terrorist incident. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A driver plowed into a crowd of Muslim worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday in an attack that police said they were investigating as a terrorist incident. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A driver plowed into a crowd of Muslim worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday in an attack that police said they were investigating as a terrorist incident. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May speaks to the media outside 10 Downing Street in London, Monday, June 19, 2017. A driver plowed into a crowd of Muslim worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday in an attack that police said they were investigating as a terrorist incident. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Forensic officers move the van at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. The vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, left, meets locals at Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, after an incident where where a van struck pedestrians, in London, Monday June 19, 2017. British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people. (Stefan Rousseau/Pool Photo via AP)

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, foreground speaks to locals at Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, after an incident where where a van struck pedestrians, in London, Monday June 19, 2017. British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people. (Stefan Rousseau/Pool Photo via AP)

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, foreground, speaks to locals at Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, after an incident where where a van struck pedestrians, in London, Monday June 19, 2017. British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people. (Stefan Rousseau/Pool Photo via AP)

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, left, meets locals at Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, after an incident where where a van struck pedestrians, in London, Monday June 19, 2017. British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people. (Stefan Rousseau/Pool Photo via AP)

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, right, talk to faith leaders at Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, after an incident where where a van struck pedestrians, in London, Monday June 19, 2017. British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people. (Stefan Rousseau/Pool Photo via AP)
BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) - Serbia's ruling conservatives say if Prime Minister-designate Ana Brnabic does not get enough votes to be confirmed by parliament as the first openly gay person to head the country's government, an early general election will be held.

Brnabic, nominated last week by Serbian Present Aleksandar Vucic, could also become the conservative nation's first female prime minister. But some of Vucic's coalition partners say they will vote against her because due to her sexual orientation.

Vucic on Monday met with 100 of his party lawmakers who promised to vote for Brnabic in Serbia's 250-seat parliament. She needs at least 26 more votes to be confirmed.

Ana Brnabic, nominated as the prime minister-designate, which could also make her the first female head of government in the country's history, speaks to media in Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia, Friday, June 16, 2017. Serbia's president on Thursday nominated the highly conservative country's first openly gay prime minister, a move likely to infuriate both the Christian Orthodox church and ultranationalists.(AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Party official Marija Obradovic says if Brnabic does not get the additional support, an early vote will be held.

Ana Brnabic, nominated as the prime minister-designate, which could also make her the first female head of government in the country's history, speaks with local officials in Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia, Friday, June 16, 2017. Serbia's president on Thursday nominated the highly conservative country's first openly gay prime minister, a move likely to infuriate both the Christian Orthodox church and ultranationalists.(AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) - A senior government official in Romania on Monday called on lawmakers not to oust the prime minister in a no-confidence vote this week called by members of his own party.

Government general-secretary Victor Ponta, a former premier, told The Associated Press in an interview that Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu is a guarantor of stability and predictability in the East European country.

Grindeanu is "the good option, the positive option, the option for the future," Ponta said.

Romanian Government General Secretary and former Prime Minister, Victor Ponta, adjusts his glasses during an interview with the Associated Press in Bucharest, Romania, Monday, June 19, 2017. Ponta's has called on lawmakers not to oust the prime minister in a no-confidence vote this week called by members of his own party. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)

The ruling Social Democratic Party withdrew political support for Grindeanu last week, saying he hadn't implemented the party agenda.

Grindeanu, in office since January, denies he underperformed and says party chairman Liviu Dragnea is seeking greater control over the party. Dragnea is barred from being premier because of a 2016 vote-rigging conviction.

Parliament will hold the no-confidence vote Wednesday. If it fails, Grindeanu remains prime minister. If it passes, the ruling coalition will propose a new candidate for premier who is then nominated by President Klaus Iohannis. Grindeanu believes that if he's ousted, then a loyalist to Dragnea will be appointed.

Ponta said the conflict, which has provoked "total astonishment" among Western allies, began after the Constitutional Court in May upheld a ruling that a law that that bans anyone with a conviction from serving as a minister was constitutional.

"From this moment... the conflict started, the (party) leader irrevocably can't be prime minister and the prime minister ...then said we have a long-term government that is stable," he said.

Ponta said Dragnea's leadership style of the party, which voted unanimously to withdraw support and expel Grindeanu, was reminiscent of communist-era politics: "Only then was there unanimity, the leader decided absolutely everything," he said, predicting that the crisis could split the party, the biggest in Romania.

The ruling coalition needs 233 votes to oust the government in the 465-seat legislature. It has 247 seats.
When the stealthy hi-tech F-35 tears through Paris skies on its first-ever acrobatic displays this week, the fighter jet will also be sending a message: NATO allies, the United States is still on your side.

In an Associated Press interview at the opening Monday of the Paris Air Show, Brigadier General Select Todd Canterbury said the displays of the new jet are to 'showcase the capability to all of our European partners and NATO allies' and 'to reassure them that we are committed to NATO 100 percent and that we have got the capability to respond to any action necessary.'

Canterbury, director of the Air Force F-35 Integration Office at the Pentagon, also spoke about recent problems that grounded F-35s at Luke Airforce Base in Arizona.

A Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II flies during a flight demonstration on the opening day of the 52nd Paris Air Show held at Le Bourget, north of Paris, France, 19 June 2017. The 2017 International Paris Air Show runs from 23 to 25 June

THE F-35 SHOW After roaring off the Le Bourget airport tarmac into a vertical climb with its afterburner, the F-35 will wow with a series of loops and gravity defying moves, showing maneuverability so catlike it can turn corners so sharp that it seems to carve squares in the sky. It will also show its ability to slow down to a crawl - a trick that can force pursuers to fly past and become the hunted and which Tom Cruise famously showed off in Top Gun. Advertisement

U.S. President Donald Trump has called NATO obsolete and excoriated European allies last month for not spending enough on their own defenses.

Since May 2, F-35 pilots on five occasions reported symptoms of hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, he said.

The Air Force says the F-35's backup oxygen system worked in each instance, and the pilot was able to land the plane safely.

'It could range to anything from headaches, to nausea, to color-blindness,' he told the AP.

Planes were subsequently grounded at Luke.

A team of engineers, test pilots, medics and others experts are 'digging into this problem 24 hours a day,' to try to identify the cause, Canterbury said.

'It could be lack of oxygen. It could be too much oxygen, too much carbon dioxide.'

There have been similar incidents 'across a number of bases, but not in clusters like we saw at Luke.'

The local commander at Luke will decide when the planes can fly again, he said. Canterbury said the pilots will 'start flying as soon as they can. They are ready.'

Luke is a training base for F-35 pilots. Operational units have not had such issues, he said.

U.S. servicemen gather next to a F-35 Lightning II at Paris Air Show, on the eve of its opening, in Le Bourget, east of Paris, France, Sunday, June 18, 2017. While Airbus and Boeing will again hog the spotlight at the Paris Air Show with their battle for ever-larger slices of the lucrative pie in the sky, a lot of the really interesting stuff will be going on elsewhere at next week's massive biennial aviation and defense industry gathering.

'It's still too early to tell the root cause,' he said. 'An airplane in development, such as this, will have teething problems.'

The F-35 flew briefly at the Farnborough Air Show last year but this year in Paris it will have its debut aerial demonstrations.

The daily aerobatic shows by the F-35 promise to be spectacular, punctuated by the howl of its 40,000 pounds of thrust.

French President Emmanuel Macron (2-L) listens to Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier (C) while visiting the Paris Air Show. Macron landed at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400-M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, the Paris Air show, running from 19 - 25 June 2017, where the latest Boeing and Airbus passenger jets will vie for attention with a F-35 warplane, drones and other and high-tech hardware. EPA/MICHEL EULER / POOL MAXPPP OUT

French President Emmanuel Macron exits the cockpit of a Rafale jet fighter helped by Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier (R) while visiting the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, north of Paris, France, 19 June 2017.

F-35 FACT SHEET Role: Stealth multirole fighter First flight: December 15, 2006 Unit cost (not including engine): F-35A - $98million F-35B - $104million F-35C - $116million Number built: 115 (as of November 2014) Length: 15.67m Wingspan: 10.7m Height: 4.33m Max speed (F-35A): 1,930kph Advertisement

'This is a beastly airplane,' said chief F-35 test pilot Alan Norman.

After roaring off the Le Bourget airport tarmac into a vertical climb with its afterburner, the F-35 will wow with a series of loops and gravity defying moves, showing maneuverability so catlike it can turn corners so sharp that it seems to carve squares in the sky.

It will also show its ability to slow down to a crawl - a trick that can force pursuers to fly past and become the hunted and which Tom Cruise famously showed off in Top Gun.

Eight countries are partners of the program and are taking F-35s: the U.K., Australia, Italy, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Canada, and Turkey.

Three other nations have bought F-35s: Japan, Israel and South Korea.

Canterbury said Germany, Belgium and Singapore have requested information about the F-35, a potential first step toward possible purchases.
Among the seven U.S. Navy sailors who died in the Saturday collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a Philippine-flagged container ship off Japan were an Ohio man expecting to retire soon, a Maryland man who was his father's best friend and a former volunteer firefighter in his Virginia hometown.

Here are snapshots of them taken from interviews of family and friends:

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This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

SHINGO ALEXANDER DOUGLASS, California

Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass followed in his father's footsteps in joining a maritime branch of the military, enlisting in the Navy in 2014.

He started working aboard the destroyer that same year and last October joined his shipmates on a visit to an orphanage in South Korea as part of a community service project. Douglass was seen pushing a disabled orphan in a wheelchair, according to the San Diego Union Tribune.

His father, Ret. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Stephen Douglass, told the newspaper his 25-year-old son was an avid videogame player "and a really good kid."

He had just gotten promoted in May. A 2010 Fallbrook High School graduate in Fallbrook, north of San Diego, he was unmarried.

His family described him as "adventurous" and said his hobbies included scuba diving and tennis.

"Shingo served his Nation proudly, and we are also very proud of him and his service," his family wrote in a statement.

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NOE HERNANDEZ, Texas

Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez was a tremendous source of pride for his family, a relative told Dallas television station KTVT.

"We all came from poverty in Guatemala. He was the one who made it," said cousin Aly Hernandez-Singer. "We lived through his experiences. His travels."

The 26-year-old Hernandez, of Weslaco, Texas, had been stationed in Illinois, Italy, California and Japan since joining the Navy in 2009.

He died in the collision from a head injury as he slept, Hernandez-Singer told the TV station.

She said Hernandez met his wife in high school and also is survived by a 2-year-old son.

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NGOC T TRUONG HUYNH, Connecticut

Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T. Truong Huynh, 25, always "had the brightest smile," his sister said.

He was selfless, Lan Huynh told WVIT-TV, of Hartford, Connecticut, and the family is coping as best it can.

Huynh graduated from Watertown High School and attended Naugatuck Valley Community College before enlisting in the Navy in 2014. The family moved to Oklahoma soon after.

Connecticut's governor has ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Huynh's honor.

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XAVIER ALEC MARTIN, Maryland

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin was trying to call his father after the vessels collided but didn't get through, his father told WJZ-TV in Baltimore.

All Darrold Martin can think of are his son's final moments.

The 24-year-old sailor, of Halethorpe, Maryland, followed in his father's footsteps and was quickly rising in the ranks, said Darrold Martin, who referred to his son as his best friend.

"It's very hard," the elder Martin said. "He's my only child, he's all I have."

Martin graduated in 2010 from Landsdowne High School, where he ran track and had many friends, said Daneace Jeffrey, Martin's aunt.

He loved being in the military and was considering turning it into a career.

"He always put others before his own safety," she said. "I'm sure in his last moments he was probably more concerned with the other servicemen than himself, that's the kind of person he was."

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GARY LEO REHM JR., Ohio

Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, was three months shy of retiring when he was killed, his cousin tells The Chronicle-Telegram in Elyria, Ohio.

Friends and relatives described the sailor from Elyria as generous and easygoing. They say the Navy told his mother he died trying to rescue fellow sailors trapped in flooding compartments.

"When we heard that he ran in and helped save other sailors from drowning, we said that was Gary. That was Gary to a T," said Rehm's friend Christopher Garguilo. "He never thought about himself."

Rehm was inspired to join the Navy by his grandfather, a World War II sailor who took Rehm on tours of military planes and ships when he was a youngster. Rehm enlisted in 1998, right after graduating from Oberlin High School, said his aunt.

"He loved what he did," said Rehm's aunt, Virginia Rehm. "He was a very kind-hearted, happy person who worked hard. It's a big loss, it really is."

Gary Rehm is survived by his wife, his parents and a sister.

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KYLE RIGSBY, Virginia

Nineteen-year-old Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby was a volunteer firefighter in his Virginia hometown before he joined the Navy.

The Palmyra resident and Fluvanna County High School graduate was a teenager when he signed up with the Lake Monticello Volunteer Fire Department in 2014, following in his mother's footsteps, news outlets reported.

Rigsby would "give his shirt off of his back for you," said volunteer firefighter Farrah Brody.

Assistant Fire Chief Jean Campbell described Rigsby as a dependable firefighter and called his death "a tragic loss."

Chase Karaca said he met Rigsby in fourth grade and they bonded over playing Pokemon.

The game sparked an interest for Rigsby in Japanese culture, so "it was a dream come true for him" to get to visit and "to be doing something for his country," Karaca said.

Rigsby enlisted in February 2016. He reported to duty aboard the Fitzgerald in November.

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CARLOS VICTOR GANZON SIBAYAN, California

Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan felt that serving in the Navy was "his calling" and he joined in 2013 after graduating from high school, a friend said.

Sibayan, of Chula Vista, south of San Diego, always made people laugh, Chase Cornils, a fellow cadet in Chaparral High School's Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, told the San Diego Union Tribune.

"He always had a cheerful attitude and a smile on his face," Cornils said.

An enlisted surface warfare specialist, the 23-year-old started working on board the USS Fitzgerald in July 2014.

___

This story has been corrected to show that Shingo Alexander Douglass first reported for duty on the USS Fitzgerald in 2014, not 2015.

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California. Douglass is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas. Hernandez is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut. Huynh is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland. Martin is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia. Rigsby is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)
TOKYO (AP) - The Latest on the collision early Saturday between a U.S. Navy destroyer and a container ship off the Japanese coast that killed seven Navy sailors (all times local):

7 p.m.

The U.S. Navy says it still believes that a collision between the destroyer USS Fitzgerald and a container ship occurred at 2:20 a.m., even though Japanese coast guard officials say it happened about an hour earlier.

The container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula on Saturday, June 17, 2017, is berthed at the Yokohama port near Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The ships collided about early Saturday, when the Navy said most of the 300 sailors on board would have been sleeping, and authorities have declined to speculate on a cause while the crash remains under investigation.(Hiroshi Kashimura/Kyodo News via AP)

Cmdr. Ron Flanders, a Navy spokesman, said Monday that the destroyer reported to officials that it collided at 2:20 a.m. Saturday with the Philippine-flagged container ship off the coast of Yokosuka near Tokyo. Seven American sailors died in the crash.

Coast guard officials said they have revised the time of the collision to 1:30 a.m. from their earlier estimate of 2:20 a.m. after interviewing crewmembers of the container ship, the ACX Crystal.

A track of the container ship's route by MarineTraffic, a vessel-tracking service, shows it made a sudden turn as if trying to avoid something at about 1:30 a.m., before continuing eastward. It then made a U-turn and returned around 2:30 a.m. to the area near the collision.

"That (1:30 a.m. crash time) is not our understanding," Flanders told The Associated Press. He said any differences would have to be clarified in the investigation.

___

5:27 p.m.

Japan's coast guard is investigating why it took nearly an hour for a deadly collision between a U.S. Navy destroyer and a container ship to be reported.

A coast guard official said Monday they are trying to find out what the crew of the Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal was doing before reporting the collision to authorities 50 minutes later.

The coast guard initially said the collision occurred at 2:20 a.m., as the Philippine ship had reported it at 2:25 a.m. and said it just happened. After interviewing Filipino crewmembers, the coast guard has changed the collision time to 1:30 a.m.

The ACX Crystal collided with the USS Fitzgerald off Japan's coast early Saturday morning, killing seven of the destroyer's crew of nearly 300.

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

The container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula on Saturday, June 17, 2017, is berthed at the Yokohama port near Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The ships collided about early Saturday, when the Navy said most of the 300 sailors on board would have been sleeping, and authorities have declined to speculate on a cause while the crash remains under investigation.(Hiroshi Kashimura/Kyodo News via AP)

A screen shows a news program reporting about a collision between a U.S. destroyer and a container ship off Japan, in Tokyo, Monday, June 19, 2017. The USS Fitzgerald collided Saturday, June 17, with a Philippine-flagged container ship four times its size off the Japanese coast. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara)

Damaged part of USS Fitzgerald is seen at the U.S. Naval base in Yokosuka, southwest of Tokyo Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found a number of sailors' bodies Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship Saturday in the busy sea off Japan. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

Damaged part of USS Fitzgerald is seen at the U.S. Naval base in Yokosuka, southwest of Tokyo Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found a number of sailors' bodies Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship in the busy sea off Japan, but a spokeswoman said not all seven missing had been accounted for. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

This screenshot provided by vessel-tracking service MarineTraffic shows a track of the route of the container ship ACX Crystal that collided with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off Shimoda in the Izu Peninsula, southwest of Tokyo, Saturday, June 16, 2017, killing seven U.S. sailors. The track of the container ship's route by MarineTraffic shows it made a sudden turn as if trying to avoid something at about 1:30 a.m., before continuing eastward. It then made a U-turn and returned around 2:20 a.m. to the area near the collision. (MarineTraffic via AP)

Damaged USS Fitzgerald is seen at Yokosuka Naval Base, south of Tokyo, Sunday, June 18, 2017. Navy divers found the bodies of missing sailors Sunday aboard the stricken USS Fitzgerald that collided with a container ship Saturday in the busy sea off Japan, the Navy said. (Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, Junes 17, 2017, photo, the damaged USS Fitzgerald is seen off Yokosuka, near Tokyo, Japan, after the Navy destroyer collided with a merchant ship. The U.S. Navy says the bodies of sailors who went missing in the collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship have been found aboard the stricken destroyer. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP, File)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal goes through the Tokyo Bay after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula early in the day. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Shunpei Ishii/Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula earlier in the day, is berthed at the Oi Container Terminal in Tokyo. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP)

In this Saturday, June 17, 2017, photo, the container ship ACX Crystal with its left bow dented and scraped after colliding with the USS Fitzgerald in the waters off the Izu Peninsula earlier in the day, is berthed at the Oi Container Terminal in Tokyo. The search for seven U.S. Navy sailors missing after their destroyer collided with the container ship called off Sunday after several bodies were found in the ship's flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, said Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen K.K., which operates the Philippine-flagged ship. (Hitoshi Takano/Kyodo News via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut. Huynh is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California. Douglass is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas. Hernandez is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland. Martin is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio. Rehm is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California. Sibayan is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

This undated photo released by the U.S. Navy, Monday, June 19, 2017, shows Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia. Rigsby is one of the seven sailors who died in a collision between the USS Fitzgerald and a container ship off Japan on Saturday, June 17, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)
CAIRO (AP) - The past week's tempestuous parliament approval of a deal transferring two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia is putting Egypt's government at odds with the judiciary and providing the country's battered opposition with a nationalist cause to whip up at a time of growing economic distress.

The surprise 2016 deal to hand over the islands of Tiran and Sanafir aimed to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia, which has provided distressed Egypt with billions of dollars in grants and soft loans over the past four years. It comes amid fitful efforts to establish an axis of cooperation between two powers vying for leadership of the self-styled moderate Sunni Arab camp - countries which oppose Shiite Iran and are willing to weigh closer ties to Israel.

But the opposition has proven a headache for President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, whose popularity seems to be slipping in the wake of economic liberalization reforms that deeply hurt Egyptians' living standards even while winning global praise. El-Sissi's government has been gaining greater acceptance by governments internationally, even while facing criticism over its authoritarian policies - defended on security grounds - that include jailing opponents and crushing rights groups.

FILE - In this Tuesday, June 13, 2017, file photo, dozens of lawyers shout slogans during a protest against the accord to hand over control of two strategic Red Sea islands, Tiran and Sanafir, to Saudi Arabia in front of the lawyers syndicate in Cairo. The tempestuous parliament approval of a deal transferring two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia is putting Egypt's government at odds with the judiciary and providing the country's battered opposition a nationalist cause to whip up at a time of growing economic distress. Arabic on the Red Sea map reads, " bread.. freedom, the islands are Egyptians". (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)

With parliament's approval of the handover, the dispute over the islands now pits the legislative and executive branches of government against the judiciary. Courts issued two rulings over the past year that clearly stated the islands belong to Egypt.

In Egypt's sometimes murky power structure, it is not clear where such a battle of wills could go.

The issue takes on added significance and sensitivity because Tiran controls the only shipping lane leading to the ports of Eilat and Aqaba, in Israel and Jordan respectively. The closure of the so called Tiran Strait was a main trigger of the 1967 Middle East war.

Saudi Arabia's request for the islands and the absence of any official explanation from Cairo or Riyadh has prompted widespread speculation. One scenario says the islands afford the Saudis a say of some sort in renewed Israeli-Palestinian negotiations along with formal contacts with Israel. Another line of speculation says these contacts would contribute toward formulating a joint strategy against Shiite Iran, a nemesis to the Saudis and Israelis alike.

Here's a look at some of the issues related to the islands and how they are likely to evolve:

___

THE AGREEMENT:

The maritime border demarcation agreement under which Egypt would transfer control of the islands to Saudi Arabia was signed and announced when Saudi King Salman was visiting Egypt in April 2016. The announcement came as the Saudis unveiled a multibillion-dollar package of soft loans and investments to Egypt, prompting charges the government was handing over the islands in return for Saudi money.

___

THE COURTS:

A court in June 2016 ruled to annul the transfer of the islands. When the government appealed, a higher court upheld the verdict in January and asserted that the islands were Egyptian. The higher court alluded to official documents, some dating back to Ottoman and British colonial times, showing Cairo's exercise of full sovereignty over the islands over the years and offered a legal opinion that dismissed the agreement as unconstitutional.

The government, meanwhile, filed a case with the Supreme Constitutional Court seeking a ruling on whether the two courts had jurisdiction over the case. That court starts hearings next month, but a panel of constitutional experts already filed a report saying the courts did indeed have jurisdiction. If that's the case, serious doubts would be cast on the legality of parliament's ratification of the deal.

That, in turn, would usher in a potentially damaging battle between the legislature and the judiciary. In any case, el-Sissi has to sign off on parliament's ratification before the agreement can go into effect. He has yet to and there has been no word on whether he will await the Supreme Constitutional Court's ruling. He will have to tread carefully given the court's weight and the erosion of parliament's credibility over its handling of the agreement.

____

PARLIAMENT:

The 596-seat legislature ratified the deal on June 14 after four days of at times vicious arguments. Lawmakers on each side threw around accusations of treason, payments by foreign powers and illegal amassing of wealth.

The disorder reinforced critics' charges that parliament is just a tool for the government to carry out its agenda and that many of its members lack the political skills to effectively carry out their duties. The government denies parliament is a rubber stamp, pointing to the rare cases where it has blocked proposals.

Perhaps most egregiously, Speaker Ali Abdel-Al asserted that judicial rulings on the agreement amounted to nil, a position seen as contemptuous of the judiciary. But only a mass resignation by the around 100 lawmakers who oppose the agreement might embarrass the chamber enough to trigger calls for its dissolution. In the meantime, more than 100 lawmakers have urged el-Sissi not to sign off on parliament's ratification before the Supreme Constitutional Court's verdict, according to local media.

___

THE OPPOSITION:

Activists raged over the issue on social media. But online calls for street protests achieved a meager response, likely a sign of how Egyptians have become fatigued by recent years' instability, cowed by security crackdowns and consumed with economic privations.

Police arrested more than 100 activists and demonstrators over the weekend, of whom about half remain in custody, according to rights lawyers. There were a handful of small protests in Cairo Friday, quickly broken up by security forces.

But future street action is possible.

"If the government went ahead and handed over the islands to Saudi Arabia, we will consider them occupied and will work toward liberating them by all means available," said one opposition leader, Farid Zahran.

An opinion poll conducted by an Egypt-based pollster, Baseera, found that 47 percent of those questioned believed the islands were Egyptian, with only 11 percent saying they were Saudi. The poll, conducted June 11-12, asked 1,164 people. The margin of error was below 3 percent.

FILE - In this Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, file photo, lawyer and former presidential candidate Khaled Ali, center, celebrates with others after the Supreme Administrative Court said two islands, Sanafir and Tiran, are Egyptian, debunking the government's claim that they were Saudi, in Cairo, Egypt, Monday, Jan. 16, 2017. The tempestuous parliament approval of a deal transferring two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia is putting Egypt's government at odds with the judiciary and providing the country's battered opposition a nationalist cause to whip up at a time of growing economic distress. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil, File)

FILE - In this Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, file photo, Tiran Island, the Red Sea, Egypt. The tempestuous parliament approval of a deal transferring two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia is putting Egypt's government at odds with the judiciary and providing the country's battered opposition a nationalist cause to whip up at a time of growing economic distress. (AP Photo/Nariman El-Mofty, File)
HOUSTON (AP) - Officials say a woman has been charged with capital murder in the stabbing death of her 4-year-old daughter at a Houston apartment complex.

Deputy Thomas Gilliland of the Harris County Sheriff's Office says 34-year-old Laquita Lewis texted family members Sunday, telling them she had hurt her child. Gilliland says Lewis texted family members from the hospital, where she had been taken after being injured in a traffic accident.

The relatives contacted the sheriff's office. When deputies arrived, they found Fredricka Allen dead at the apartment.

This photo provided by the Harris County Sheriff's Office in Houston shows Laquita Lewis, who has been charged with capital murder in the stabbing death of her 4-year-old daughter at a Houston apartment complex on Sunday, June 18, 2017. (Harris County Sheriff's Office via AP)

Lewis is being held in the Harris County jail Monday. Jail records do not list an attorney to speak for her.

Gilliland says deputies haven't determined why Lewis killed her daughter, though they believe she got into a fight with her boyfriend earlier Sunday.
BERLIN (AP) - Prosecutors want a German nationalist party leader's immunity lifted so they can pursue an investigation of allegations that she lied under oath.

News agency dpa reported that Ivo Klatte, a spokesman for the state legislature in the eastern Saxony region, said Monday the request for Frauke Petry's immunity to be lifted was made last week. He said a decision isn't expected before the end of August.

Petry is a co-leader of Alternative for Germany, which hopes to enter Germany's national parliament in a Sept. 24 election, and also its top regional lawmaker in Saxony.

FILE- In this April 22, 2017 file photo Frauke Petry looks thoughtful at the party convention of Germany's nationalist party AfD (Alternative for Germany) in Cologne, Germany. Prosecutors want a German nationalist party leader's immunity lifted so they can pursue an investigation of allegations that she lied under oath. News agency dpa reported that Ivo Klatte, a spokesman for the state legislature in the eastern Saxony region, said Monday, June 19, 2017 the request for Frauke Petry's immunity to be lifted was made last week. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner,file)

The investigation centers on differing accounts given by Petry and another party official to a state legislature committee in relation to a candidate list for a 2014 regional election. The party said it stands by Petry.
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - The publicity and uproar in the days before Sunday's broadcast of Megyn Kelly's interview with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones didn't translate into ratings.

The NBC program was seen by 3.5 million viewers, according to Nielsen, an audience dwarfed by CBS rival "60 Minutes," a rerun which drew 5.3 million viewers. "Sunday Night with Megyn Kelly" had 6.2 million viewers for Kelly's interview of Vladimir Putin on the show's June 4 debut.

In the days preceding her segment on Jones, Kelly had received widespread criticism for giving a platform to a man whose false allegations only added to the pain of the Newtown tragedy and even encouraged people to harass relatives of the victims. In the interview, Jones never gave a direct answer when Kelly pressed him to admit he was wrong and continued to raise questions about the shootings.

FILE - In this April 27, 2017 file photo, Megyn Kelly attends the TIME 100 Gala, celebrating the 100 most influential people in the world in New York. Kelly's interview with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones was seen by 3.5 million viewers, according to Nielsen. Much criticized ahead of time, the report filled roughly one-third of NBC's hour-long "Sunday Night with Megyn Kelly," whose audience was dwarfed by CBS rival "60 Minutes," which drew 5.3 million viewers. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP, File)

A parent of one of the children killed in the 2012 Connecticut school shootings says she won't view the Megyn Kelly interview of conspiracy theorist Alex Jones that aired on NBC's "Sunday Night With Megyn Kelly."

Nicole Hockley's 6-year-old son, Dylan, was among the 20 children and six educators killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. She said Monday she won't watch the interview for "obvious" reasons; Jones has called the school shooting a hoax.

One Newtown parent did appear on Kelly's program: Neil Heslin, whose 6-year-old son, Jesse Lewis, was killed. When Kelly asked him if he had anything to say to Jones for Father's Day, when the interview aired, he responded, "I think he's blessed to have his children to spend the day with, to speak to. I don't have that."

Andrew Friedman, a representative for the Newtown victims' families, said Monday that neither he nor Joshua Koskoff, the lawyer for the families in a lawsuit against gun maker Remington Arms, had any comment on the Jones interview.

Connecticut's NBC affiliate did not air Sunday's report and lawyers representing 12 people who lost loved ones at Sandy Hook urged NBC News officials not to air the interview. NBC News Chairman Andy Lack told The Associated Press that the Jones story would be edited with its critics in mind.
NEW YORK (AP) - Jay Z's new album will be released June 30 and will be available only to users of the music streaming service Tidal, which the rapper co-owns.

Tidal announced the news on Twitter early Monday along with a 30-second black-and-white clip from a video of one of the album's songs, featuring "Moonlight" star Mahershala Ali. The new album is called "4:44."

Tidal was launched in 2015. It is co-owned by Beyonce, Madonna, Rihanna, Kanye West and other artists. Earlier this year, Sprint bought a 33 percent stake in the service, which has more than 40 million songs and 140,000 videos.

FILE - In this Nov. 4, 2016, file photo, Jay Z performs during a campaign rally for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in Cleveland. Jay Z's new album called "4:44" will be released June 30, 2017, and will be available only to users of music streaming service Tidal, which the rapper co-owns. Tidal announced the news on Twitter early Monday, June 19, 2017, along with a 30-second-long black-and-white clip from a video of one of the album's songs, featuring the "Moonlight" star Mahershala Ali. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

The new album is Jay Z's first CD since "Magna Carta Holy Grail" in 2013. It will be available to new and existing Sprint customers who sign up for Tidal.
ST. LOUIS (AP) - State versus state battle lines are being drawn across the Mississippi River, with a top Missouri official urging Illinois regulators to back away from a plan allowing higher levees that could push more floodwater to the Missouri side of the river.

Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley, a Republican, sent a letter last month to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources warning that a proposed rule change on levee regulation would "threaten to substantially increase the risk of severe flooding" in Missouri. The letter echoes concerns raised by environmentalists and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A spokeswoman for Hawley said the Illinois DNR did not reply to the May 9 letter. The Illinois DNR didn't return several messages left by The Associated Press.

In this Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2015 photo, sandbags are stored and covered on top of the levee on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River across from Louisiana, Mo. State versus state battle lines are being drawn across the Mississippi River, with a top Missouri official urging Illinois regulators to back away from a plan allowing higher levees that could push more floodwater to the Missouri side of the river. (J.B. Forbes/St. Louis Post-Dispatch via AP)

The issue is especially sensitive after another round of severe flooding. Torrential spring rains led to a sudden spike along portions of the Mississippi River, the Missouri River and hundreds of smaller waterways throughout the central U.S.

Levees are made of dirt and covered with grass. They range from small mounds protecting farmland from minor floods to massive structures serving as fortresses around towns and industry.

The Illinois DNR's rule change would deregulate levees, allowing those already built to unauthorized heights to remain at those levels. It is supported by several state lawmakers and some river interests who worry about the increased frequency of severe flooding.

"Those living, working and investing along the rivers are worth protecting, so we encourage folks to invest in infrastructure to avoid chronic flooding," said Aaaron Baker, executive director of the Upper Mississippi, Illinois & Missouri Rivers Association, which represents levee and drainage districts and supports higher levees.

Baker said the rule change would simply reduce burdensome regulation. But Hawley, who declined interview requests, wrote that it would "reward bad actors, incentivize future misbehavior, and obstruct efforts to bring overbuilt structures into compliance."

The river battle is not new, and it runs both ways. Hawley's predecessor, Democrat Chris Koster, wrote to an Illinois lawmaker in 2013, warning that her proposal at the time to allow higher levees "could put Missouri levees and the property they protect in perilous danger."

Scott Whitney, a flood risk manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Rock Island, Illinois, said officials in that state have complained that some Missouri levees are too high.

A recent corps study found that nearly 40 percent of the 205 miles of levees from central Iowa to St. Louis are above their authorized heights, some by as much as 4 feet. Missouri, Iowa and Illinois all have levees in violation of corps requirements, but Illinois has the most.

There is little the corps can do about it. The agency's lone recourse is to kick offending levee districts out of a program that provides insurance to rebuild after flooding.

Rob Moore of the environmental organization the National Resources Defense Council said the Illinois rule change would create "this crazy arms race of who can build their levees the highest the fastest, which is kind of a 1900s-era approach to flood plain management."

Some levees have saved significant damage along the river. Consider Hannibal, Missouri, made famous as Mark Twain's boyhood home. The historic downtown area was often flooded, causing devastating damage in 1973.

In 1992, a corps levee was built. The next year, downtown Hannibal remained dry despite the biggest flood on record.

But except near populated areas, many experts believe it's better to let floodwater sprawl, restoring wetlands and bottomland forests and limiting development rather than building taller levees.

The largest levee district cited by the corps is the Sny Island Levee and Drainage District in Illinois, which includes 60 miles of levees across from northern Missouri. Whitney said the Sny is 2-4 feet above its authorized level in several spots.

Nancy Guyton, who farms with her husband in rural Pike County, Missouri, said the Sny system pushes more water onto her land and neighboring properties.

"That water has to go somewhere," Guyton said.

Sny superintendent Mike Reed denied that the levee is too high. He said the "authorized level" is a minimum height, not a maximum. In fact, he said it was the corps itself that built parts of the Sny a foot above the authorized level.

"They have said we are raising river elevations on our neighbors, and that is absolutely not true," Reed said.

The corps is in the midst of a hydrological study expected to be completed this fall. Whitney said the study should offer some answers on the impact of levees and other river structures during times of flooding.
WOLFEBORO, N.H. (AP) - Police and animal welfare workers in New Hampshire say they've seized 84 neglected Great Danes, most of them from an eight-bedroom mansion that had floors covered with feces.

They say at least some of the dogs and puppies had eye and skin problems, and infections. An emergency shelter was set up for the animals.

The homeowner, Christina Fay, was charged with two counts of animal cruelty Friday. Police say she ran a business from the home called De La Sang Monde Great Danes.

A message at the business phone number said the voice mailbox was full and an email came back as undeliverable. A Facebook message wasn't immediately returned.

Police said the case is "about reckless conduct, abhorrent behavior toward animals over profit, and scofflaw attitude about business practices."
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - A body was found in New Mexico not far from where a Colorado pastor parked his vehicle before heading out to search for a supposed hidden cache of gold and jewels that has inspired thousands to hunt in vain across remote corners of the Western U.S., authorities said Monday.

Medical investigators have yet to identify the body, but all the evidence so far indicates it is that of missing pastor Paris Wallace of Grand Junction, State Police Lt. Elizabeth Armijo said.

The case has reignited calls by some to end a treasure hunt that has had deadly outcomes and forces public resources to be spent on search and rescue efforts.

Last year, a Colorado man died in the New Mexico backcountry while searching for the bounty that an antiquities dealer said he stashed somewhere in the Rocky Mountains. It's led treasure hunters to comb secluded areas of New Mexico, Yellowstone National Park and elsewhere.

In the latest case, crews began looking for Wallace last week after his family reported him missing.

Family members told authorities that Wallace had come to New Mexico to search for the treasure of Forrest Fenn, who announced several years ago that he hid a small bronze chest containing nearly $2 million in gold, jewelry and artifacts in the Rockies.

Fenn has dropped clues to the chest's whereabouts in a cryptic poem in his memoir, "The Thrill of the Chase."

Treasure hunters have shared their experiences on blogs and have brainstormed about the clues.

Many renewed their support for Fenn on social media Monday despite critics raising questions about the dangers of venturing into the rugged areas where some of the clues have led.

Wallace's vehicle was found Thursday near the Rio Grande after authorities traced the location where he last used his cellphone.

Armijo told The Daily Sentinel newspaper in Grand Junction (http://bit.ly/2sFbxeZ ) on Friday that investigators also found a rope tied across one of the river's tributaries that they believe Wallace had purchased and his backpack in the waters of the Rio Grande a few miles downstream.

Members of Wallace's church shared their condolences online and asked for prayers for his family.

Linda Bilyeu, whose ex-husband Randy Bilyeu went missing while searching for the treasure along the Rio Grande in January 2016, was among those calling for an end to the treasure hunt after the latest case.

"Another family is left to grieve and carry on without their loved ones," Bilyeu told The Associated Press in an email. "Only one man has the power to stop the madness. Yet, he continues to pretend he's doing a good deed by getting people off the couch and into nature."

Fenn did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

As for ending the hunt, he has previously refused, saying that would be unfair to those who have spent their time and money looking for the 40-pound chest.
ASBURY PARK, N.J. (AP) - The nine children of a woman killed by her police officer ex-husband are suing the New Jersey department where he worked and several other law enforcement agencies.

The wrongful death lawsuit recently filed in U.S. District Court says the agencies failed to properly discipline Neptune Township Sgt. Philip Seidle and didn't properly report and investigate domestic violence that occurred at the family's home, the Asbury Park Press reported (http://on.app.com/2ssJ6hz ). The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages.

Seidle was off duty when he shot and killed his ex-wife, Tamara Wilson-Seidle, with his service weapon after a car chase in June 2015. Their 7-year-old daughter was in the car at the time.

He pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter and child endangerment and was sentenced in September to 30 years in prison.

The Seidles made seven domestic violence calls to police over a 21-year period, according to investigators. Philip Seidle was suspended twice after two separate calls. However, the Neptune Police Department never fired him during those two decades.

Seidle kicked his ex-wife while she was pregnant, threatened her with a gun and abused her emotionally, according to divorce documents.

Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni instituted an oversight policy after investigating the case. The policy requires police departments to notify the prosecutor's office when an officer is involved in domestic violence.
NEW YORK (AP) - Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon made tweaks here and there to the autobiographical "The Big Sick," a romantic comedy based on their own extraordinary romance. But the most unbelievable things are 100-percent true.

Their relationship did, as in the film, evolve as Nanjiani's Pakistani-American family was trying to arrange his marriage. Their lives together were irrevocably altered when an illness forced Emily into a medically induced coma. And - most unlikely of all - Nanjiani did grow up idolizing Hugh Grant and styling his hair like him.

"And you still kind of think that's the ideal hair to have as a human being," Gordon, gently chiding her husband and co-writer, said in a recent interview alongside Nanjiani.

FILE - In this March 8, 2017 file photo, Kumail Nanjiani, left, and his wife Emily Gordon arrive at the Los Angeles premiere of "Kong: Skull Island." Nanjiani and Gordon wrote the film, "The Big Sick," which chronicles their relationship from the start, when the Pakistan-born Nanjiani was trying to make it as a stand-up in Chicago. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)

"It's gorgeous," Nanjiani retorts, proudly unapologetic. "He was like my ideal of a man." (Here Gordon cackles) "He still is. The first best-man speech in 'Four Weddings,' when I look back, so much of my stand-up was aping the Hugh Grant delivery. I love that movie."

In "The Big Sick" Nanjiani has filtered his undying love of rom-coms (particularly the Hugh Grant-Richard Curtis variety) through his own improbable experience in love. The film, directed by Michael Showalter and produced by Judd Apatow, has already been hailed as one of the year's best. Amazon plunked down $12 million for "The Big Sick" (in theaters Friday) after its lauded Sundance Film Festival premiere in January.

"The Big Sick" is a refreshing anomaly for many reasons. It's a tenderly personal film in the midst of the brutal blockbuster season. It's a major release starring a Pakistani-American actor (Nanjiani, famous to many for his role on "Silicon Valley"). And it's, by far, the most exciting romantic comedy to come along in years - a rare shot-in-the-arm for a moribund genre, one nearly left for dead after too many conventional mediocrities.

"I would love it to have a comeback," Nanjiani said of the rom-com. "They would need to be different from the glut of rom-coms we had in the early 2000s. It would be good to see new, different versions of it."

Lest anyone doubt his rom-com ardor, Nanjiani's conversation is punctuated by titles like "My Best Friend's Wedding," ''Sleepless in Seattle" and, repeatedly, his beloved "Four Weddings and a Funeral." Apatow recently introduced Nanjiani to its writer-director, Curtis, who gave him a few signed frames from "Four Weddings." ''Kumail was as excited as a man could be," said Apatow.

Nanjiani, 39, grew up immersed in American pop culture. He moved to the U.S. at age 18 to go to Iowa's Grinnell College. He returned last month to give a commencement address where he encouraged graduates to "have sex with an immigrant." ("We're going through a really tough time right now," he joked, "and it would just be really great for morale.")

He and Gordon (who's played by Zoe Kazan in the film) met in Chicago, where Nanjiani was a few years into his then-nascent, still nerve-rattled standup career and Gordon was a practicing therapist. As in the film, their first encounter was at one of his performances. "He said, 'Is Pakistan in the house' and I woo-hoo'ed, helpfully," Gordon recalls. When the two officially met two nights later, Nanjiani was drawn to Gordon's confidence and Gordon "liked the way his brain worked on stage" - like an early bit of Nanjiani's about the first deer that ate psychedelic mushrooms.

Apatow heard Nanjiani tell his story of meeting Gordon, and the subsequent coma, while the two were on Pete Holmes' podcast about five years ago.

"It really was a strange, wonderful romantic comedy story. I thought: 'Nobody has a great story like this. This sounds like a movie.' I sent Kumail and Emily off to start writing and we worked really hard at it for years," said Apatow. "Everything I do is hoping to be in the universe of 'Terms of Endearment.' We usually don't come close but I think this is as close as we've ever come."

Think of the modern romantic comedy and you're likely to picture Meg Ryan or Julia Roberts or Kate Hudson. It is, Nanjiani grants, "probably the whitest genre." And that's one reason why "The Big Sick" points the rom-com in a new direction. Many of the funniest and natural scenes in the film are of Nanjiani sitting around the dinner table with his Pakistani family. (Anupam Kher and Zenobia Shroff play his parents; Ray Romano and Holly Hunter play Emily's parents.) In one scene, Nanjiani watches YouTube videos on his phone while he's supposed to be praying.

It adds up to a rarely seen snapshot of Muslim life in America, at a time when American openness to immigrants is severely challenged. Nanjiani is glad they made the film "before all the anti-immigration sentiment became so explicit."

"We just wanted to make a movie about family and love," said Nanjiani. "We're very, very lucky because I think we would have had pressure to make a statement with it. The movie is coming out in a very different context than it was made. I like that it humanizes a group of people that are generally seen in a very specific way in American pop culture."

Gordon has her own issues with romantic comedy conventions. She once did a workshop on how their formulas and expectations are ruining our love lives: overselling the bold romantic gesture and falsifying the synchronicity of two people falling in love.

Alternatively fueled and stalled by cultural differences and an ill-timed coma, their relationship contained no such prescribed beats. But by the end, they were in love. Imbued with a new awareness of life's fragility after the health scare, they moved to New York and got married. Nanjiani, with Gordon's help, grew into his own as a performer, and they went on to write "The Big Sick."

"We weren't afraid of failing so much anymore," said Gordon. Nanjiani concurs. "We just kind of went for it."

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Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP
BOSTON (AP) - Prosecutors and the defense have rested their cases in the murder trial of a man accused of killing a 2-year-old girl who became known as Baby Doe after her body washed up on a Boston Harbor beach.

Michael McCarthy didn't take the stand in his own defense Monday. Closing arguments are scheduled for Tuesday.

McCarthy is charged with killing Bella Bond. The girl's mother says McCarthy punched Bella in the abdomen repeatedly until she died in 2015.

McCarthy's lawyer says the mother killed the girl.

A composite image of Bella was shared by millions of people on social media after her body was found in June 2015 as authorities tried to ascertain her identity.

Jurors on Thursday heard McCarthy's recorded interview with police in which he denies killing Bella.
VISALIA, Calif. (AP) - Authorities say a man wanted in a Central California stabbing death a decade ago has been arrested in Mexico.

Police in Visalia say Andres Espindola was taken into custody June 15 by FBI agents in Colima, Mexico.

The Fresno Bee reported Sunday (http://bit.ly/2sOiZE1 ) that the 34-year-old is suspected of killing Raymond Randle during a fight in Visalia in 2006.

The 40-year-old victim was stabbed in the leg and later died at a hospital.

Police say Espindola was identified by witnesses as the suspect, but he fled to Mexico before an arrest warrant was issued.

He was extradited to California and booked in Tulare County jail on suspicion of murder. It wasn't immediately known if he has an attorney.

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Information from: The Fresno Bee, http://www.fresnobee.com
MAYS LANDING, N.J. (AP) - Body-camera video of a standoff between police and the physician husband of a radio host slain in New Jersey shows the man yelling, "I'm not going to jail for this!"

The video was played Monday before a judge ruled James Kauffman was a flight risk and will remain in custody until his trial on weapons charges unrelated to his wife's death.

Kauffman's attorney vowed to appeal the ruling. He noted that Kauffman has been under an "investigative microscope" for the last five years after April Kauffman's death and hasn't fled.

Kauffman was arrested this month at his Egg Harbor Township office. Authorities say he brandished a handgun as agents executed search warrants at his office and home, but a hostage negotiator persuaded him to surrender.

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This story has been corrected to show James Kauffman has not been charged in his wife's death.
MEXICO CITY (AP) - Mexican authorities say they have arrested a suspect in connection with the shooting of a journalist in the southern state of Guerrero.

The state Prosecutor's Office says Monday in a statement that the person was detained recently on suspicion of attempted murder for the attack on Marcela de Jesus Natalia.

De Jesus Natalia hosts a show on an indigenous radio station in the town of Ometepec. She was shot in the head June 3 as she left the government-owned broadcaster, leaving her in critical condition.

Mexico has experienced a wave of attacks on journalists with at least six slain in the country since early March.

Violence has risen in general in recent years in Guerrero, a hotspot of drug gang activity.
ST. ALBANS, Vt. (AP) - Protesters are showing support for two immigrant dairy farmers arrested after marching to a Vermont Ben & Jerry's factory to call for better pay and living conditions on farms that provide milk to the ice cream maker.

The state Department of Corrections said Monday that Mexican immigrants Yesenia Hernandez-Ramos and Esau Peche-Ventura were arrested Saturday and are being held on immigration charges.

A U.S. Border Patrol spokesman tells Vermont Public Radio they were stopped in a routine check a few miles away from the U.S.-Canada border.

Protesters were outside a correctional facility and a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office Monday.

Ben & Jerry's says it's concerned hardworking members of the community who contribute to the success of dairy farms in Vermont would face criminalization.
WASHINGTON (AP) - The White House on Monday urged technology CEOs to pitch in on President Donald Trump's effort to modernize government.

"Our goal is to lead a sweeping transformation of the federal government's technology that will deliver dramatically better services to citizens, stronger protection from cyberattacks," said Trump, adding that the possible changes could produce up to $1 trillion in savings over 10 years.

Apple CEO Tim Cook and Eric Schmidt, executive chairman of Google parent company Alphabet, were among those attending an afternoon of working groups on issues like technology infrastructure, cybersecurity and visas for foreign workers. Trump has spoken out against illegal immigration and signed an executive order banning travelers from six Muslim-majority countries, a source of tension with technology firms.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, left, with the assistance of Assistant to the President Chris Liddell, right, tries to quiet the audience so he can speak at the opening session of the White House meeting with technology Chief Executive Officers to mark "technology week," Monday, June 19, 2017, in the Indian Treat Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House complex in Washington. The White House Office of American Innovation is hosting a series of working sessions to generate ideas to transform and modernize Government Services. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

"We're working very diligently with everybody, including Congress, on immigration so that you can get the people you want in your companies," the president said.

The administration drew a mix of flattery and policy requests from the assembled technology leaders and university officials. Cook, the Apple CEO, requested that computer coding be taught in every public school. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said workers need more skills for a technology-based economy. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos encouraged the government to use commercial technology to save money and develop artificial intelligence to improve government services.

Venture capitalist John Doerr asked for the government to open up its databases to private firms, saying it would transform health care.

"If you set the data free, the entrepreneurs are going to do the rest," he told the president.

The gathering was the first event for a technology-focused effort within the White House Office of American Innovation, which seeks to overhaul government functions using ideas from the business sector. Several of the executives complimented Jared Kushner, senior adviser and son-in-law to Trump, and his wife, Ivanka Trump, the president's daughter and a senior adviser, for helping to drive the initiative.

Kushner cited some examples of the current technology infrastructure, noting the use of floppy discs in Pentagon "legacy systems."

Some technology executives have clashed with Trump over his decision to exit the Paris climate accord. Leaders at Apple and Google were among the American corporate executives who appealed to the president to stay in the pact. Nearly 100 major technology companies - including Facebook, LinkedIn and Intel - also opposed the administration's travel ban in February.

But other companies have supported aspects of the Trump agenda. IBM was prominent last week during the White House's push for apprenticeships. Intel unveiled plans at the Oval Office in February to invest more than $7 billion in an Arizona factory, a move Trump portrayed as a win for U.S. workers.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer said the administration was focusing on technology this week. He said there was "a lot of room for optimization in the federal government."

Alphabet Inc Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt, center, listens as White House senior adviser Jared Kushner speaks at the opening session of the White House meeting with technology Chief Executive Officers to mark "technology week," Monday, June 19, 2017, in the Indian Treat Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House complex in Washington. The White House Office of American Innovation is hosting a series of working sessions to generate ideas to transform and modernize Government Services. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Ivanka Trump listens to her husband, White House senior adviser Jared Kushner as he speaks at the opening session of the White House meeting with technology Chief Executive Officers to mark "technology week," Monday, June 19, 2017, in the Indian Treat Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building part on the White House complex in Washington. The White House Office of American Innovation is hosting a series of working sessions to generate ideas to transform and modernize Government Services. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
MADRID (AP) - Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has avoided commenting on speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave Spain.

Speaking on Monday after his reelection as club president, Perez made no mention of Ronaldo in his first public appearance since Portuguese media reported on Friday that Ronaldo was considering leaving Spain after a public prosecutor accused him of tax fraud.

Perez read a prepared speech and did not take questions from journalists at the event.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo runs with the ball during the Confederations Cup, Group A soccer match between Portugal and Mexico, at the Kazan Arena, Russia, Sunday, June 18, 2017. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis)

The 70-year-old Perez, who ran unopposed, was reelected for a fifth four-year mandate at the Spanish powerhouse.

Last week, a Spanish state prosecutor accused Ronaldo of defrauding Spain's tax office of 14.7 million euros ($16.5 million) in unpaid taxes.

Ronaldo has denied any wrongdoing, and Madrid has issued a statement saying it believed the player was innocent.

A judge will now decide whether there are grounds to take the matter to court.
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump has yet to condemn an attack on Muslim worshippers in London, the latest instance in which he has appeared slower to speak out about violence when Muslims are the victims.

Unlike with other recent attacks targeting civilians, there were no early-morning tweets voicing sympathy for the victims or vowing a renewed fight against violent ideologies. The first White House voice to acknowledge the late Sunday attack was Trump's daughter, Ivanka, who tweeted that she was "sending love and prayers." She added: "We must stand united against hatred and extremism in all its ugly forms."

As president, Trump has taken steps to protect Muslims from violence, including cruise missile strikes against Syria's military after blaming it for a chemical attack that killed dozens of civilians.

People take part in a vigil at Finsbury Park in north London, where a vehicle struck pedestrians in north London Monday, June 19, 2017. A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Still, Muslim advocacy groups say they see a stark difference in the haste with which Trump responds when Muslims are the perpetrators of attacks, and not the targets. They see the discrepancy as part of a pattern, given Trump's harsh campaign rhetoric about Islam and attempts to temporarily ban immigrants from a handful of Muslim-majority countries.

"It's like pulling teeth to get President Trump to respond to terror attacks on Muslims," said Ibrahim Hooper of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "His silence or his delay really sends a negative message to the American Muslim community that their lives and their safety are not as important as the lives and safety of other citizens."

Scrutiny of Trump's responses comes amid growing concern about a rise in hate crimes against Muslims in countries that have experienced Islamist-linked attacks. In the latest incident, at least nine were injured in Britain late Sunday when a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd outside a mosque. Police there are treating it as a terror attack.

For the United Kingdom, it was only the most recent bout of violence, following three previous attacks in as many months. After two of those incidents - a March attack near Parliament and a June attack on London Bridge - Trump was quick to express solidarity and call for a strong response.

Both attacks were claimed by the Islamic State group, and Trump later drew dismay from British leaders when he repeatedly disparaged London Mayor Sadiq Khan, a Muslim, for his response to the attack.

Trump was visiting the West Bank in May at the time of another attack claimed by IS: a suicide bombing at a concert in Manchester. He quickly condemned the perpetrators as "evil losers" who had murdered "young, beautiful, innocent people, living and enjoying their lives."

Other U.S. officials and agencies have more consistently condemned violent attacks - regardless of the circumstances. On Monday, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said the U.S. "strongly condemns last night's attack that appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers in London," while White House press secretary Sean Spicer told reporters that Trump was being updated by his staff.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and we've made it very clear to our British allies that we stand ready to provide any support or assistance," Spicer said.

In the president's defense, Trump's supporters note that after Syrian leader Bashar Assad's forces were accused of using chemical weapons against Syrians, Trump intervened with unprecedented U.S. strikes to try to stop it from happening again. Under similar circumstance in 2013, President Barack Obama declined to take such a step to protect Muslim lives.

The White House didn't respond to requests for comment Monday. But Kellyanne Conway, a senior White House adviser, suggested earlier this year it might be a bandwidth issue, noting that Trump "doesn't tweet about everything."

"I know he's sympathetic to any loss of life. It's completely senseless, and it needs to stop, regardless of who is lodging the attack," Conway told CNN in February.

In some cases, Trump has voiced support for Muslim victims of attacks days later, or with unusual caveats.

When two men were killed last month in Portland, Oregon, defending two young women who appeared to be Muslim from an anti-Islam tirade, Trump waited three days before calling the attacks "unacceptable" and praising the men who stood up "to hate and intolerance." He also waited to express condolences to Canada after an attack on a Quebec City mosque.

And when an IS attack this month struck the capital of Iran, a Shiite Muslim country that Trump's administration sees as a top U.S. foe, the White House said the U.S. grieves for the victims "and for the Iranian people." But the two-sentence statement then assigned some of the blame to Iran, saying countries "that sponsor terrorism risk falling victim to the evil they promote."

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Reach Josh Lederman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joshledermanAP
(CNN) Iran's military announced on Sunday that it launched several missiles into Syria, targeting Islamic State fighters in retaliation for the attacks in Tehran on June 7.

The missile strikes, which occurred on Saturday, are the first reported ground-to-ground strikes from Iran into Syria since the Arab country descended into a civil war in 2011.

"In this operation, several ground-to-ground midrange missiles were fired from IRGC bases in Kermanshah Province and targeted Takfiri forces in the Deir Ezzor region in Eastern Syria," the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on its official news website, Sepah News. The IRGC uses the term Takfiri to describe ISIS.

Suicide bombs and gun attacks rock Tehran 01:04

Tehran was rocked by two deadly attacks on June 7 targeting Iran's Parliament building and a shrine dedicated to the republic's revolutionary founder Ayatollah Khomeini.

Six assailants killed 12 people in the twin attacks, which ISIS claimed. It was the first time that ISIS, a Sunni Muslim group fighting Iranian-backed militias in Syria, has claimed responsibility for an attack in Iran.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Polaris Industries is recalling up to 35,000 all-terrain vehicles in Australia, Europe and New Zealand because they may have violated bans on asbestos use in those countries.

Polaris announced the recall in Australia of a dozen different ATV models sold since Dec. 31, 2003 on Monday. The details of recalls in New Zealand and Europe are still being finalized.

Polaris spokesman James Fuller says a supplier inadvertently provided parts with asbestos to the company. A firm Polaris hired tested the parts and determined they didn't represent a health risk.

No recalls are expected in the United States and Canada because those countries don't ban asbestos in brake pads and other parts.

Polaris is based in Minneapolis and makes ATVs, snowmobiles and the three-wheeled Slingshot roadster.
BOISE, Idaho (AP) - A pet squirrel named Joey who gained fame as a crime-fighter might be more of the lover type.

Joey, who police credited with scaring off a burglar trying to break into his home's gun safe, made his long goodbyes earlier this month, then scampered up a backyard apple tree at his Meridian, Idaho, home and hasn't been seen since.

"If I had to guess, he found a girlfriend and they're off doing their squirrel thing," said Adam Pearl, who raised Joey in his home for about 10 months.

This undated photo provided by Adam Pearl shows Pearl with his pet squirrel Joey in Meridian, Idaho. Pearl says Joey was so young he still had his eyes closed when friends found him on the ground late in the summer of 2016 after he fell out of his nest. Pearl says Joey climbed onto his shoulder for an affectionate goodbye earlier in June 2017, then scampered up a backyard apple tree at his Meridian home and hasn't been seen since. Joey made headlines in February 2017, when police nabbed a burglary suspect who reported fleeing a home after being attacked by a squirrel. (Adam Pearl via AP)

A University of Idaho scientist said that's probably right for Joey.

"For a lot of mammals, behavior changes once spring comes," said Janet Rachlow, a professor at the school's Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences.

Joey made headlines in February after police went to Pearl's home to investigate the burglary and Joey introduced himself. A few hours later, police nabbed a teen burglary suspect with items from Pearl's home and scratches on his hands. The teen told police a squirrel at one home came flying out of nowhere and kept attacking him until he left.

Like many famous crime fighters, Joey had a rough start in life. He was abandoned after falling out of his nest not long after being born and would have died if Adam Pearl and his wife, Carmen, hadn't taken him in.

"His eyes weren't even open," Adam Pearl said. "He was about the size of a Bic lighter when we first got him."

They bought supplies and set an alarm every two hours to feed him. Joey thrived, and soon had the run of the house, using a litterbox and learning to scavenge from bowls of nuts.

"I wanted him to be able to fend for himself," Adam Pearl said.

Joey did just that, delighting the family with his antics.

"He'd let anybody pet him when he was in the house," Pearl said. "I guess right up until the kid broke in. Right after that is when he started getting aggressive."

About a month ago, Pearl made the decision to leave a sliding door open after Joey seemed extra rambunctious. Joey eventually ventured out, played with wild squirrels during the day and returned to his bed inside at night.

On June 4, he climbed on Adam's shoulder, where he stayed for several minutes getting his ears scratched before disappearing in the apple tree.

"I think that was his goodbye, looking back on it," Adam Pearl said.

Rachlow said Joey might have a little bit of culture shock assimilating into squirrel life, but will likely succeed.

Adam Pearl said Joey liked to chew on items in the house, so there's also relief in being an empty-nester.

"Hopefully, he doesn't bring any little Joeys into the house," he said.

In this August 2016 photo, Adam Pearl's pet squirrel Joey is fed in Meridian, Idaho. Pearl says Joey was so young he still had his eyes closed when friends found him on the ground late in the summer of 2016 after he fell out of his nest. Pearl says Joey climbed onto his shoulder for an affectionate goodbye earlier in June 2017, then scampered up a backyard apple tree at his Meridian home and hasn't been seen since. Joey made headlines in February 2017, when police nabbed a burglary suspect who reported fleeing a home after being attacked by a squirrel. (Adam Pearl via AP)
MANCHESTER, Tenn. (AP) - Two deputies were injured Monday in a shooting at a Tennessee county courthouse, and authorities said the shooter has died.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said on Twitter that two Coffee County deputies were injured and are undergoing medical treatment. Their conditions were not immediately known.

Lucky Knott, a spokesman for the Coffee County Sheriff's Office, said an inmate who was in the courthouse for a scheduled hearing grabbed a deputy's gun and fired. Knott said one deputy was shot in the stomach. He says a second deputy was wounded in the hand, but it's not clear if he was shot or injured in a struggle with the inmate.

Knott says the inmate fled the courthouse, and then suffered a gunshot wound. Knott says the suspect may have shot himself. The bureau said Monday evening that he has died.

Bureau investigators were at the scene.

The county courthouse is located in Manchester, about 65 miles (105 kilometers) southeast of Nashville.
SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) - Ranchers on Monday sued the U.S. Department of Agriculture, seeking to force meat to again be labeled if it's produced in other countries and imported to the United States.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Spokane, seeks to overturn a March 2016 decision by the Department of Agriculture to revoke regulations requiring imported meat products to be labeled with their country of origin. That change allowed imported meat to be sold as U.S. products, the lawsuit said.

"Consumers understandably want to know where their food comes from," said David Muraskin of Washington, D.C., an attorney for Public Justice, which filed the lawsuit. "With this suit, we're fighting policies that put multinational corporations ahead of domestic producers and shroud the origins of our food supply in secrecy."

FILE - In this Jan. 18, 2010 file photo, steaks and other beef products are displayed for sale at a grocery store in McLean, Va. Ranchers are suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture, seeking a return of labels that clearly identify meat produced in other countries and imported to the United States. The Department of Agriculture on Monday, June 19, 2017, declined to comment on a matter that is in litigation. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

Between 2009 and 2016, the USDA required country-of-origin labeling on meat.

The lawsuit said the change violated the nation's Meat Inspection Act, which required that slaughtered meat from other countries be clearly marked.

The Department of Agriculture on Monday declined to comment on a matter that is in litigation.

The lawsuit was brought by the Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund, United Stockgrowers of America, the nation's largest group of independent cattle producers, and the Cattle Producers of Washington.

Bill Bullard of United Stockgrowers said the labeling is essential to allow Americans to support U.S. ranchers. "Empowering consumers to buy American beef with country of origin labels will strengthen America's economy," Bullard said.

Multinational corporations use the lack of clear labels "to import more beef from more foreign countries, including countries with questionable food safety practices," he said.

The lawsuit asks the court to vacate USDA's current regulations, which allow corporations that import beef and pork and other products into the United States to label that meat "Product of USA."

Beth Terrell, another attorney for Public Justice, which is a nonprofit legal group, noted that President Donald Trump initially expressed support for country-of-origin labeling, but he has since backed off. "Both consumer advocates and domestic producers were disheartened by President Trump's reversal," Terrell said.

More than 800 million pounds of foreign beef is imported into the United States each year, Public Justice said.

Without country-of-origin labeling, "domestic ranchers and farmers tend to receive lower prices for their meat because multinational companies can import meat and misleadingly present it as homegrown," Public Justice said in a news release.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) - Saudi Arabia said Monday its forces had captured and were questioning three members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard who were intending to carry out an attack on a major offshore oilfield in the Persian Gulf.

Saudi Arabia's Information Ministry said in a statement the three were onboard a boat carrying a large number of explosives headed toward the Marjan oil field, located off the kingdom's eastern shores between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

The statement said the three were detained on Friday and accused them of intending to carry out a terrorist operation in Saudi territorial waters.

Earlier in the day, a statement published on the state-run Saudi Press Agency said Saudi naval forces had disrupted a planned attack by three boats "bearing red and white flags" that raced toward its Marjan offshore oil field. It said sailors fired warning shots and captured one of the boats while two others escaped in the assault. It said the captured boat "was loaded with weapons for (a) subversive purpose."

The announcement comes after Iranian state television accused Saudi Arabia's coast guard of killing an Iranian fisherman on Friday. Several Iranian news websites also reported that two Iranian boats were shot at over the weekend as they approached a Saudi oil rig.

Majid Aghababaei, an Interior Ministry official in Iran, said the three men detained are fishermen from Iran's port city of Bushehr and blamed choppy Gulf waters for the boat's divergence. In remarks to Iran's ILNA news agency, he said there is no proof they are military personnel.

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran have long been strained with each country backing opposing sides of the war in Syria and other conflicts in the region.

Saudi Arabia and Iran broke off diplomatic ties with one another last year after the kingdom executed a prominent Saudi Shiite cleric, sparking backlash among Iranians who ransacked the Saudi Embassy in Tehran.

More recently, a pair of deadly attacks in Tehran claimed by the Islamic State group further inflamed tensions between the regional rivals. Iran has indirectly blamed Saudi Arabia for the attacks and has vowed revenge. On Sunday evening, Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched ballistic missiles at IS targets in Syria for the first time in that country's six-year-long war.

___

Batrawy reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The Government is being urged to take urgent action to tackle severe staff shortages in residential care homes after a study found elderly and vulnerable people are being denied trips to the toilet and kept indoors for days on end.

A survey of 1,000 staff by Unison found that four out of five said they are so rushed they are compromising the dignity and well-being of the people they look after.

Most of the staff, working in private and local authority care homes across the UK, said they regularly work through their breaks. The union said its research revealed a worrying picture of residents being denied the most basic levels of care.

Unison spoke to 1,000 care workers (Andrew Matthews/PA)

Nine in 10 care workers said a lack of staff was to blame, with more than a quarter not having the time to help elderly people eat and drink.

Care workers reported often being too busy to take people to the toilet or notice if a residents health has deteriorated.

They were rarely able to stop for a brief chat with the people they look after or take them outside for some fresh air.

Dave Prentis of Unison (Matt Alexander/PA)

Unison general secretary Dave Prentis said: The care system is failing the elderly and the vulnerable and those staff struggling to provide the best support possible.

Significant change needs to happen if respect and dignity are to be restored and standards improved in care homes.

"Elderly people should expect the best possible care, whether they are being looked after in their own accommodation, or in a care home.

Its shocking that some care home owners are being allowed to look after people when they dont have enough staff to deliver quality care.

The Government must act now to fund social care properly and protect the most vulnerable in society.
The family of the man held by police over the Finsbury Park attack say they are massively shocked and their hearts go out to the injured.

Darren Osborne, a 47-year-old who is believed to be a father-of-four from Cardiff, was arrested after pedestrians were targeted by a man driving a van near Finsbury Park Mosque in north London early on Monday.

A statement on behalf of the family said: We are massively shocked; its unbelievable, it still hasnt really sunk in.

47-yr-old arrested at #FinsburyPark now detained for terrorism offences - he remains in custody. https://t.co/FgVWbv1QdQ pic.twitter.com/GiKlEAAGjA  Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) June 19, 2017

We are devastated for the families, our hearts go out to the people who have been injured.

They said the 47-year-old was not a racist and had never expressed racist views, adding: Its madness. It is obviously sheer madness.

The London Ambulance Service took nine people to three London hospitals. Two others were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

Updated figures: We took nine patients to three hospitals following the incident in #FinsburyPark https://t.co/oL75V7ZUWD pic.twitter.com/WDCbzDVk8D  London Ambulance Service  (@Ldn_Ambulance) June 19, 2017

Witnesses described hearing a van driver, who was detained by members of the public at the scene, shout: Im going to kill Muslims.

The man was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but Scotland Yard said he was later arrested for the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder.

Finsbury Park Mosque

Residents near Cardiff said they were shocked after seeing photographs of their neighbour being arrested in London.

In a telephone interview with ITV News, his mother described him as a complex person but said thats all I can say.

The woman, who is not being named, broke down in tears.

She said: Its a terrible, terrible shock.

Police have been searching a residential address in Pentwyn, where Osborne is listed as living.

Five residents identified images of the man being arrested as their neighbour, Osborne, who according to reports is originally from Somerset.

Neighbour Khadijeh Sherizi said: I saw him on the news and I thought oh my God that is my neighbour.

He has been so normal. He was in his kitchen yesterday afternoon singing with his kids. He was the dad of the family. He has kids. He lives next door. He seemed polite and pleasant to me. I just cant believe it.

LIVE: Statement from DAC Neil Basu on the incident in #SevenSisters Road #FinsburyPark https://t.co/sH35LQYZF0  Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) June 19, 2017

Scotland Yard said the attack unfolded while a man who had taken ill was receiving first aid from the public.

He was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:04am.

A spokesman said police investigations are continuing to establish whether there is any link between his death and the attack adding: The man suspected of driving the van was detained by members of the public at the scene.

The suspect, who is believed to have been from Weston-super-Mare, remains in custody at a south London police station.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud was hailed for his efforts to prevent a mob attack and calm the situation before police arrived in shielding the suspected terrorist from the fury of onlookers.

He said: By Gods grace we managed to surround him and protect him from any harm.

We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him that were coming from every angle.

The PM made a statement in Downing Street following the terror attack in Finsbury Park. Read more: https://t.co/xhjyBFVaw0 pic.twitter.com/FJsPROACuG  UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) June 19, 2017

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said it is being treated as a terrorist incident adding: The investigation is ongoing and we are working fast to know the full details of how and why this took place.

All the victims were from the Muslim community and we will be deploying extra police patrols to reassure the public, especially those observing Ramadan.

The suspect, who is believed to have been from Weston-super-Mare, remains in custody at a south London police station.
Internet giants will face increased pressure to tackle online extremism as European leaders were expected to back a UK-led drive for tougher internet regulation.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will lead calls to ensure there is no safe space for terrorists to plot attacks and share radical material online when he attends a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Monday.

In the wake of atrocities in London Bridge and Manchester, Prime Minister Theresa May has urged social media companies such as Google, Facebook and Twitter to take down terrorist content, agreeing measures with G7 leaders in April and a new plan with French President Emmanuel Macron last week.

We cannot and must not pretend that things can continue as they are when it comes to Islamist extremism. These 4 things need to change: pic.twitter.com/e7bGtYxq2U  Theresa May (@theresa_may) June 6, 2017

Mr Johnson will also encourage the blocs other foreign ministers to join forces to track foreign fighters returning from Iraq and Syria.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Mr Johnson said: We are pushing back Daesh militarily, but the threat we face is evolving rather than disappearing as they lose ground in Iraq and Syria.

The fight is moving from the battlefield to the internet.

Boris Johnson (Victoria Jones/PA)

There should be absolutely no safe space for terrorists plotting attacks, radicalising young people and encouraging others to carry out violence in the name of an obscene ideology.

We all want to protect our people so we must say together that enough is enough. Terrorism affects us all and we need a common approach to ensure the problem gets solved, and at a much faster pace than we are seeing right now.
Trade talks between the UK and European Union will not begin until October at the earliest as Brexit negotiations will follow the timetable set out by Brussels in a blow to David Davis.

The UK Government had wanted the talks to take place in parallel but has now accepted the timetable set out by the EUs chief negotiator Michel Barnier.

European Commission official Mr Barnier warned the UK faced substantial consequences as a result of Brexit but insisted it was not about punishment or revenge.

And in a reference to Prime Minister Theresa Mays negotiating mantra, he said: For both the European Union and the United Kingdom, a fair deal is possible and far better than no deal.

After the first day of the crucial negotiations which have the potential to shape the UKs economic and political future for a generation, it was agreed that working groups of officials would aim to make progress on the issues of citizens rights, the UKs financial settlement  the so-called divorce bill  and other issues to do with separation.

The most senior officials on either side will lead work on efforts to resolve the problem of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, a situation Mr Barnier acknowledged was politically sensitive at a time when the Tory government was seeking the support of the Democratic Unionist Party to prop up Mrs Mays minority government.

Only when sufficient, concrete progress on the first phase has been made will Mr Barnier recommend to the European Council that the negotiations can enter the next stage, taking in the future trading relationship, with that recommendation possibly coming at Octobers summit of EU leaders.

After seven hours of talks in Brussels, Mr Davis  who had previously promised the row of the summer over the timetable for the negotiations  said he was optimistic about the talks.

Both sides acknowledged the clock was ticking, with the date for the UKs departure from the EU fixed for March 2019.

Watch David Davis at today's press conference, where he said the UK wants to agree a deal that works for everyone https://t.co/4VJO1xVMWU  Department for Exiting the EU (@DExEUgov) June 19, 2017

Mr Davis denied suggestions the agreed timetable showed Britains weakness and insisted it is completely consistent with the Governments aim of parallel trade and exit talks.

Its not when it starts its how it finishes that matters, he said.

The UK has been crystal clear in our approach to the negotiations, the withdrawal process cannot be concluded without the future relationship also being taken into account.

They should be agreed alongside each other, this is completely consistent with the Councils guidelines which state nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.

Barnier: "A fair deal is possible and far better than no deal." But no trade talks until progress on divorce. #Brexit pic.twitter.com/XBqm333U1K  David Hughes (@DavidHughesPA) June 19, 2017

Mr Davis also brushed off the idea Britains negotiating stance could change given political instability in the UK.

The Brexit Secretary said: The position hasnt changed, we have the Lancaster House speech, the two white papers, and the Article 50 letter, all backed up by a manifesto too.

So its the same as it was before.

Asked if he had given any ground to Britain, Mr Barnier said: I am not in a frame of mind to make concessions, or ask for concessions.

Its not about punishment, it is not about revenge. Basically, we are implementing the decision taken by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, and unravel 43 years of patiently-built relations.

I will do all I can to put emotion to one side and stick to the facts, the figures, and the legal basis, and work with the United Kingdom to find an agreement in that frame of mind.

He added: The United Kingdom has decided to leave the European Union, it is not the other way around.

David Davis

The United Kingdom is going to leave the European Union, single market and the customs union, not the other way around.

So, we each have to assume our responsibility and the consequences of our decisions. And the consequences are substantial.

In a sign of the progress that has been made, Mr Davis said the Prime Minister would brief fellow EU leaders at a summit on Thursday on the UKs approach to the rights of expatriate citizens, which will be set out in detail in a paper on Monday.

Mr Barnier and Mr Davis will meet every four weeks over the coming months, bringing their teams together for a matter of days each time.
Theresa May has played down suggestions RAF pilots could be at risk after Russia warned it would track warplanes from the US-led coalition in Syria as potential targets a day after the US military shot down a Syrian air force jet.

The Prime Minister pointed to deconfliction arrangements with Moscow, which are designed to prevent mid-air incidents between coalition and Russian planes operating in the crowded airspace over Syria.

Russia has been providing air cover for Syrian president Bashar Assad since 2015 while the coalition has been bombing Islamic State (IS) targets since 2014, sometimes alongside regime forces.

Coalition defends partner forces from Syrian fighter jet attack - https://t.co/PLfc7AfAeY via @CJTFOIR (File photo) pic.twitter.com/24cmdjEVjZ  U.S. Navy (@USNavy) June 18, 2017

In a sign of the deepening complexity of the brutal civil war, the US air force downed a Syrian Su-22 plane on Sunday after it dropped bombs near the American-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighting IS.

In response, Russias defence ministry said it would suspend coordination with the US over deconfliction zones and begin tracking coalition jets operating in Assad-held areas west of the Euphrates river.

At a press conference in Downing Street, Mrs May was asked whether she would consider grounding RAF planes in response, although Russia has stressed it would not shoot down coalition planes and instead track them to ensure they do not pose a threat.

Syrian Democratic Forces fighters look towards the northern town of Tabqa (Syrian Democratic Forces via AP)

The Prime Minister said: There are deconfliction arrangements in place already in relation to activity that takes place over the skies of Syria and those deconfliction arrangements will continue.

A Government spokesman added: Air operations continue and deconfliction measures are ongoing. We call on Russia to continue to use these measures.

We want all parties to focus on the fight against Daesh (IS) in Iraq and Syria.
A man has been arrested after a van was driven into worshippers near a north London mosque.

Police said the attack, by a man in a white van, is being treated as terrorism after one man died in the incident near the Finsbury Park Mosque in north London early on Monday.

Here is a selection of pictures from the incident.

A police van outside Pontyclun Van Hire in Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan. A van hired from the company was found in Finsbury Park (Claire Hayhurst/PA)

Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park in north London, where one person has been arrested after a vehicle struck pedestrians (Yui Mok/PA)

A police evidence gatherer stand in a street in Finsbury Park (Victoria Jones/PA)
Bayern Munich have insisted there is no basis to the speculation linking them with a move for Cristiano Ronaldo.

In a post labelled the hoax of the day on the clubs website, Bayern said they were not looking to sign the Real Madrid forward.

Ronaldo to #FCBayern? That's a dead duck  Rummenigge rubbishes media reports: https://t.co/CWsocNneCM pic.twitter.com/OVP5F3gGcZ  FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) June 19, 2017

Ronaldo is said to want to quit Real and leave Spain over what he feels is unfair treatment by Spanish tax authorities.

As well as Bayern, he has been linked with former club Manchester United, Paris St Germain and a move to the United States or China.

But should Portugals record goalscorer leave the Spanish capital this summer, Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said his destination will not be the Bundesliga champions.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been linked with a return to Manchester United (Thanassis Stavrakis/AP)

We are accustomed to speculating intensively on possible ins and outs during the transfer period, Rummenigge said. As a rule, we do not comment on these rumours.

But now, in the case of Cristiano Ronaldo, we want to clarify once and for all that this rumour has no basis and must be referred to the realm of the fable.
Johanna Konta brushed off worries about overplaying ahead of Wimbledon as she prepared for her second tournament of the grass-court season.

The British number one arrived at the Aegon Classic in Birmingham straight from Nottingham, where she lost a long final on Sunday to Donna Vekic.

Kontas final warm-up event takes place in her home town of Eastbourne next week and good runs at all three would mean a heavy workload ahead of Wimbledon.

Johanna Konta has been tipped to win the Wimbledon title

Konta, who is the second favourite with a number of bookmakers to win her first grand slam title at SW19, said: I think everybody looks to try and get, or most people, as much time as possible on the surface heading into Wimbledon.

Its a short season so, for me, Im just looking to play as many matches on the grass and look to adapt well.

I train very hard to be able to withstand a lot of matches. But, if we are at that stage, Im pretty sure thats also a very good problem.

Konta was the top seed in Nottingham and had looked poised to win her first title on home soil before Vekic turned the final around to shock the world number seven.

Who doesn't like a quality drop shot?



Not to be today for Johanna #Konta but she still produced some brilliant ! pic.twitter.com/nyg5O6tq1S  LTA (@the_LTA) June 18, 2017

Konta was happy with her first week on grass, saying: I felt I adapted well each match.

I think I actually played a lot of really good grass-court players as well. So Im quite pleased on how I was able to deal with some of the challenges they were throwing at me.

Overall it was also nice to play a few matches in succession. I hadnt done that in a little while. I felt it was a positive week for me and also a great week from which to learn from.

Konta certainly looked a lot more at home on the grass than during the clay-court season, where she only won three matches in five events and was knocked out in the opening round of the French Open.

#AegonClassic Tuesday Day 2 OOP 



Smitkova vs Kvitova

Tsurenko vs Konta

Cibulkova vs Safarova

Muguruza vs Kulichkova pic.twitter.com/PSIaVJd2oX  wta (@WTA) June 19, 2017

The 26-year-old is enjoying more than just the change of surface.

She said: I get a massive kick out of not having to get on a plane and just get to drive to events. Just to put myself in the car, not have to pack a specific way to meet airline regulations or anything, just actually throw stuff in the car and drive 50 minutes and here I am at the next event. Thats pretty good.

Fourth seed Konta begins her campaign in Birmingham against Lesia Tsurenko of Ukraine on Tuesday.
Survivors have emerged with stories of leaping into water tanks and other dramatic escapes from the deadly forest fires scorching central Portugal.

Authorities have come under mounting criticism for not doing more to prevent the countrys deadliest natural disaster in decades.

More than 2,700 firefighters are still battling to contain several major wildfires in the area north-east of Lisbon, where one blaze that began on Saturday killed 62 people, many of them as they tried to flee the flames in their cars.

Horrified to hear of tragic loss of life in Portugal fires. Thoughts and condolences with our Portuguese friends at this time.  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) June 18, 2017

Water-dropping planes from Spain, France and Italy arrived as part of a European Union co-operation programme but they were grounded in some places because thick smoke limited visibility, officials said.

That left firefighters  backed by fire engines and bulldozers  to do the heavy work on the ground in temperatures that approached 40C (104F).

Firefighters brought some of the blazes under control, but other wildfires still raced through inaccessible parts of the areas steep hills, the Civil Protection Agency said.

The fires spread quickly due to hot weather, strong winds and dry woodland (Paulo Duarte/AP)

Portugal is observing three days of national mourning after the deaths on Saturday night around the town of Pedrogao Grande, 150 kilometres (90 miles) north of Lisbon.

Scorching weather, as well as strong winds and woods that are bone dry after weeks with little rain, fuelled the blazes.

Villages dot the landscape, much of it now scorched.

Forest fires near the village of Figueiro dos Vinhos, central Portugal (Paulo Duarte/AP)

In Nodeirinho, a hillside village of a few dozen people, 84-year-old Marta da Conceicao said residents called the fire services more than 20 times for help on Saturday.

Nobody came. They were up in the mountain or somewhere else, she said. Here it was up to God and the people.

As the flames licked at her, burning her leg, she and her elderly neighbours survived by jumping into a water storage tank.

Wildfires are an annual scourge in Portugal (Paulo Duarte/AP)

A British man living nearby also had a hair-raising escape. Daniel Starling had jumped in his car and raced away as the flames bore down.

He came across a family of four elderly people and picked them up.

Mr Starling said he drove around fallen trees and even off the road in his quest to reach safety.

We stopped at one point, because we did not know where to go, because there were flames everywhere. But I just carried on the only way that I knew. (It was) just flames over the car and the family and me screaming, said the 56-year-old, from Norwich. They stopped when they came to a policeman at a junction.

The family, Mr Starling said, got out and they were kissing the car.

Officials said 47 of the dead in Saturday nights blaze died on a road as they fled the flames.
Theresa May has said she is getting on with the job amid continued questions over her future as Prime Minister.

Mrs May stressed the importance of Brexit negotiations as she was quizzed about ongoing pressure over her leadership following a disastrous election and criticism of her response to the Grenfell Tower disaster.

Senior Cabinet figures have refused to say how long they expect the Prime Minister to remain in No 10 amid claims that successors are being lined up in readiness for a swift leadership campaign.

Key dates as Parliament returns and Brexit talks begin

The PM is preparing for the Queens Speech on Wednesday and has not yet struck a deal with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to prop up her minority government.

Asked about Tory MPs giving briefings on the leadership, Mrs May told a Downing Street press conference: The Government is getting on with the job of delivering on the various issues and challenges that this country faces.

One of them of course  is the Brexit negotiations, those have started formally today so weve put in place the work to enable us to reach that deep and special partnership with the European Union that we believe is not just in our interests but also the interests of the European Union for the future.

So were getting on with that, I and the Government are getting on with that job.

Aides to Boris Johnson have dismissed claims he has been discussing a leadership bid with Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon as completely false after they were spotted drinking in a pub in Kent on Saturday evening.

Brexit Secretary David Davis, seen as Mr Johnsons main potential rival for the job, last week described leadership gossip centred on the Foreign Secretary as unbelievably self-indulgent.

David Davis

On Sunday, Chancellor Philip Hammond criticised the way the election campaign had been run and sidestepped questions over how long the PM would remain in power, saying: Theresa is leading the Government and I think the Government needs to get on with its job.

Commons leader Andrea Leadsom insisted she did not look into the future when asked about Mrs Mays tenure.

Labour has overtaken the Tories in popularity following the shock election result, while four in 10 people think Mrs May should resign, a new poll suggests.

Research by Survation for Good Morning Britain (GMB) gave Jeremy Corbyns party a three-point lead over the Conservatives, as 44% of respondents backed Labour, 41% opted for the Tories, 6% for the Lib Dems and 2% for Ukip.

NEW Survation for @GMB CON 41% (-1); LAB 44% (+4); LD 6% (N/C); UKIP 2% (-1); Others 8% (-1) (change since June 5th)  Survation. (@Survation) June 18, 2017

A similar Survation poll conducted over May 5-6 found 47% of respondents would vote Conservative compared with 30% for Labour.

Some 48% of people think Mrs May should remain Prime Minister while 45% want her to resign amid intense scrutiny of her leadership following the Tories poor election result and the Grenfell Tower fire.
Naomi Broady is friends with grass again after pulling off one of the best wins of her career over Alize Cornet at the Aegon Classic.

The British number two arrived in Birmingham fresh from her run to the semi-finals of her home tournament in Manchester.

And Broady carried that grass-court form into the clash against the world number 39, recovering from 3-0 down in the opening set to win 7-6 (7/3) 6-0.

It is the fifth time in her career that the 27-year-old has beaten a top-50 player and is likely to earn her a clash with two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova.

Frenchwoman Cornet is no fan of grass and, after slipping over, grew more and more frustrated during a one-sided second set.

Raindrops began to fall during the final couple of games, with Broady, ranked 111, admitting in her on-court interview: I was thinking, If you have to come back tomorrow, do you have a big enough lead that youre not going to choke?.

This was Broadys sixth win of the grass season  which is six more than she thought she might manage.

She said: I actually had my first practice in Surbiton with (Magdalena) Rybarikova, who is obviously having a great grass season, and got whooped by her.

So I said, I hate grass, I dont know why people think I like this surface. And I didnt win a match last year, Im obviously not going to win one this year. But now I like it again. Weve made friends.

Alize Cornet

It was still a really close match until 4-0. I served a good game to go 5-0 up and in the last game Im not sure how much she wanted to still be on the court, but I couldnt hit it in.

I was like, Just hit it in, Naomi. I dont think anybody wants to be here. So I finally managed to do that and won the match.

Earlier, Heather Watson gave world number five Elina Svitolina a scare before falling to defeat.

The British number three played an excellent second set to level the match but one break of serve in the decider proved decisive, with Svitolina going on to win 6-2 5-7 6-3.

The Ukrainian is the highest-ranked player in the tournament after Angelique Kerber pulled out with a hamstring problem  one of a rash of withdrawals to hit the event.

It would have been a career-best ranking scalp for Watson, who said: It was a tough draw.

Elina is a great player. She is very consistent with her game but also with her results. Weve played quite a few times before and all of them have been three sets and long battles.

I thought we both played very well and served very well. Id say especially in that first set I just felt that I had a lot of opportunities that I wasnt able to take, which I got very frustrated with, but I just kept fighting.

But Im very pleased with how Im hitting the ball. I just want to be more consistent and not give away too many free points.
Ministers were repeatedly warned that fire regulations were not keeping people safe, the BBC says leaked letters reveal.

The broadcaster said letters show ministers were warned that people living in high rise blocks like Grenfell Tower were at risk.

The dozen letters, sent by the All-Party Parliamentary Fire Safety and Rescue Group in the aftermath of a 2009 fatal fire in Lakanal House, south London, warned the Government could not afford to wait for another tragedy, according to Panorama.

The parliamentary group wrote in March 2014: Surely  when you already have credible evidence to justify updating  the guidance  which will lead to saving of lives, you dont need to wait another three years in addition to the two already spent since the research findings were updated, in order to take action?

As there are estimated to be another 4,000 older tower blocks in the UK, without automatic sprinkler protection, can we really afford to wait for another tragedy to occur before we amend this weakness?

After further correspondence, then government minister Liberal Democrat Stephen Williams, replied: I have neither seen nor heard anything that would suggest that consideration of these specific potential changes is urgent and I am not willing to disrupt the work of this department by asking that these matters are brought forward.

Four further victims of #GrenfellTower fire formally identified https://t.co/Dyh49KGwnx  Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) June 19, 2017

The group replied: Were at a loss to understand, how you had concluded that credible and independent evidence which had life safety implications, was NOT considered to be urgent.

As a consequence the group wishes to point out to you that should a major fire tragedy, with loss of life, occur between now and 2017, in for example, a residential care facility or a purpose built block of flats, where the matters which had been raised here, were found to be contributory to the outcome, then the group would be bound to bring this to others attention.

Former cabinet minister Sir Eric Pickles received a letter about fire regulations from the parliamentary group in February 2014, according to the BBC.

Former cabinet minister Sir Eric Pickles received a letter about fire regulations from the parliamentary group in February 2014, according to the BBC

In December 2015, the all-party group wrote to the former Conservative minister James Wharton, and warned about the risk of fires spreading on the outside of buildings with cladding.

Todays buildings have a much higher content of readily-available combustible material. Examples are timber and polystyrene mixes in structure, cladding and insulation.

This fire hazard results in many fires because adequate recommendations to developers simply do not exist. There is little or no requirement to mitigate external fire spread.

Former Conservative minister Gavin Barwell, who was recently appointed Prime Minister Theresa Mays chief of staff, received further calls for action in September last year.

Gavin Barwell

In November 2016 Mr Barwell replied to say his department had been looking at the regulations, and would make a statement in due course.

In April 2017 Mr Barwell wrote to say he did acknowledge that producing a statement on building regulations has taken longer than I had envisaged, according to the BBC.

Panorama also reported that emergency services put out an initial fridge fire at Grenfell Tower, but as the firefighters were leaving the building, colleagues outside saw flames rising up the side of the high rise.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick has joined a vigil held in the wake of a suspected terror attack which saw Muslim pedestrians mown down with a van.

The latest incident to hit the capital saw a white vehicle used by a man to deliberately target an area busy with worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers at a nearby mosque on Monday.

One man was pronounced dead at the scene on Seven Sisters Road, and nine others were taken to hospital.

A vigil held outside Finsbury Park Mosque, just a stones throw from the place where the incident unfolded at around 12.20am, saw the surrounding streets on Monday evening engulfed by people wishing to show their support.

Following a meeting with the chairman of the mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, Ms Dick stood with him to observe a short silence, and as he addressed the large crowd which had gathered, he praised the great response from the community.

Yesterday we all experienced a horrific attack on our families, on our freedom, on our dignity. A man, a father of six children, being killed in cold blood and many injured by an extremist, by a terrorist, Mr Kozbar said.

Cressida Dick and Theresa May speak to faith leaders at Finsbury Park Mosque

He said the attack was one of terror and that it was similar to those which have recently happened in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge.

These people, these extremists, their aim is to divide our communities, is to spread hatred, fear and division among our communities, he said.

We all have harmony in this area, and these people try to divide us, but we tell them that we will not let you do that.

Finsbury Park Mosque attack in graphic form

As Mr Kozbar finished speaking there were cheers and shouts of Allahu Akbar from the throng of people, with many holding signs which said united against all terror.

Other faith leaders from the community also spoke at the vigil, including the Bishop of Stepney the Rt Rev Adrian Newman, who told the crowd an attack on one faith is an attack on us all.

Rabbi Herschel Gluck said the incident hurt and was an attack on every single Muslim in the UK and beyond.

But really an attack on the Muslim community is an attack on every single citizen in Great Britain, because we are one nation, under one god, living together, working together, co-operating together in this country, he added.

Ms Dick said earlier on Monday that the incident was quite clearly an attack on Muslims, but she did not address the crowds that had gathered.

Scotland Yard said extra police patrols will be deployed t
By Elida Moreno

PANAMA CITY, May 30 (Reuters) - Former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega was for years a useful tool of the United States, until President George H.W. Bush lost patience with his brutal, drug-running rule and sent nearly 28,000 troops to invade the country and oust him.

Noriega, whose death at the age of 83 was announced late on Monday, was captured by U.S. forces in January 1990, two weeks after the massive invasion. He spent the rest of his life in custody in the United States, France and Panama for crimes ranging from murder to racketeering and drug-running.

With the knowledge of U.S. officials, Noriega formed "the hemisphere's first narcokleptocracy," a U.S. Senate subcommittee report said, calling him "the best example in recent U.S. foreign policy of how a foreign leader is able to manipulate the United States to the detriment of our own interests."

After his capture, Noriega tried to turn the tables on the United States, saying it had worked hand in glove with him.

"Everything done by the Republic of Panama under my command was known," Noriega said during his incarceration. "Panama was an open book."

By the time he returned to Panama in a wheelchair in December 2011, Noriega was a shadow of the macho army general who swung a machete at rallies. In 2015, he asked the country for forgiveness for his notorious rule.

The former strongman spent the rest of his life in solitary confinement for the murders of hundreds of opponents until being released from prison and placed under house arrest for three months in January to prepare for brain surgery. His death was the result of complications from an operation to remove a tumour.

Born in the tough Panama City neighborhood of San Felipe on Feb. 11, 1934, less than a mile from the U.S.-controlled Panama Canal Zone, Noriega was raised by a family friend.

Severe teenage acne left deep scars, lending him the lifelong nickname "Pineapple Face."

A poor but bright youth, he had few options until a half-brother helped him join the military.

Street-smart and ruthless, Noriega showed an early flair for "psyops" - psychological warfare operations - and developed an abiding interest in Asian leaders Mao Zedong, Ho Chi Minh, and 13th century Mongol warlord Genghis Khan.

One of his first posts was under Omar Torrijos, who went on to seize power in a 1968 coup and appointed Noriega as head of military intelligence. He oversaw the army's corrupt off-book deals and ran its ruthless secret police force.

Dubbed "mi gangster" by Torrijos, Noriega orchestrated the disappearance of scores of opponents, some of whose bodies later turned up in exhumations at the former Tocumen military base, bound and showing signs of torture.

'BARRAGE OF EVIDENCE'

A paid CIA collaborator since the early 1970s, Noriega at first worked closely with Washington, allowing U.S. forces to set up listening posts in Panama, and use the country to funnel aid to pro-American forces in El Salvador and Nicaragua.

Using that information, Noriega manipulated both his Panamanian and American bosses to further his own interests.

Torrijos died in a 1981 air crash, and Noriega became de facto ruler two years later. By then, he had already started to help Colombian drug lords such as Pablo Escobar smuggle cocaine into the United States and launder bales of drug cash through Panama's banks, receiving millions of dollars in kickbacks.

U.S. officials knew about some of his criminal deals as early as 1978, according to testimony, and by 1983 had a "twenty-one cannon barrage of evidence" against Noriega.

But the United States at first refrained from taking action, partly because Panama was seen as a buffer against leftist insurgencies in Central America during the Cold War.

Tensions with the United States began mounting in 1985 when Noriega dismissed Nicolas Ardito Barletta, Panama's first democratically elected president in 16 years. That election had been a precondition for the United States to hand back control of the Panama Canal.

As Noriega dabbled in geopolitical intrigue, lending covert support to Cuban leader Fidel Castro and Libya's Muammar Gaddafi, his criminal activities also mushroomed. Between 1970 and 1987, he appeared in at least 80 different U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration files.

Just eight weeks before Noriega was charged by U.S. prosecutors, the agency still maintained there was insufficient evidence against him. But U.S. patience was wearing thin.

OPERATION JUST CAUSE

In February 1988, Noriega was indicted on federal cocaine trafficking and money laundering charges. The U.S. Congress imposed economic sanctions to increase the pressure.

But Noriega refused to back down, nullifying results of a general election won by an opponent.

In December 1989, Panama's National Assembly named Noriega "maximum leader" and declared the United States and Panama to be in a "state of war." On Dec. 20, 1989, U.S. troops invaded in "Operation Just Cause," razing the army's headquarters and turning the capital upside down to find Noriega.

On the run, he sought refuge in the Vatican's embassy, and according to popular rumor, he arrived disguised as a woman.

U.S. forces laid siege to the embassy, forcing Noriega to surrender on Jan. 3, 1990 with the aid of psyops tactics he once admired: a day-round wall of rock and rap music he reportedly despised, including Public Enemy's "Fight the Power."

To some critics, the invasion of the strategic isthmus nation set the tone for U.S. interventionism in the post-Cold War era and was a stepping stone to the Iraq War.

In 1992, Noriega was sentenced in Florida to 40 years in prison. He served 17 years before being extradited into 2010 to France, where he had been convicted of money laundering.

In a prison memoir, he said he had been ousted for refusing to toe Washington's Cold War line on Central America, and recast himself as a nationalist hero. This view was widely derided.

By the time Noriega was sent back to a Panamanian jail in 2011, the country had moved on from his bloody legacy. In early 2014, the government demolished his old luxury mansion. (Editing by Mark Trevelyan)
BEIRUT, June 18 (Reuters) - Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lashed out on Sunday at U.S. President Donald Trump's administration and what he characterized as its hostility to the Islamic Republic.

"This inexperienced group has not recognized the people and leaders of Iran," he said, according to the website for state TV. "When they get hit in the mouth, at that time they'll know what's going on."

Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials have ramped up their criticism of the United States in recent weeks after Trump went on an official visit last month to Saudi Arabia, Iran's main regional rival.

During that visit, Trump singled out Iran as a key source of funding and support for militant groups. He has also criticized the nuclear deal between Iran and six major powers, including the United States, that led to the lifting of most sanctions against Iran, in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Trump has said Washington would review the deal but stopped short of pledging to scrap it.

Iran and the United States cut diplomatic ties shortly after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution and enmity to Washington has long been a rallying point for hardline supporters of Khamenei in Iran.

Khamenei has accused the United States and its regional ally Saudi Arabia of funding hardline Sunni militants, including Islamic State, which carried out its first attack in Iran earlier this month, killing 17 people.

Riyadh has denied involvement in the suicide bombings and gun attacks on Iran's parliament and the mausoleum of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Khamenei said in his speech on Sunday that any efforts to destabilize the Islamic Republic would not succeed.

"In the past 38 years, when has there been a time when you haven't wanted to change the Islamic system?" Khamenei said, according to Fars News. "Your head has hit the rock each time and always will." (Reporting by Babak Dehghanpisheh; Editing by Peter Cooney)
After 17 months of detention in North Korea, the conditions of which are still unclear, Otto Warmbier returned to his home state of Ohio Tuesday night.

But the young man who landed in Cincinnati and was immediately taken to a hospital isn't the same person who left a year and a half ago on a trip to explore the secretive country.

Since his return, Warmbier hasn't talked, moved in any purposeful way or responded to verbal communication. In a news conference Thursday, doctors called his condition "unresponsive wakefulness," and revealed he had suffered significant brain damage during his imprisonment.

The North Korean government said botulism is to blame for Warmbier's condition, but doctors haven't found any evidence of the illness in the now 22-year-old.

Before his detention made global headlines, Otto Warmbier was just an adventurous college student.

Bright future

Otto was born to Cindy and Fred Warmbier in Cincinnati -- the same city in which he's now hospitalized.

He excelled in academics, graduating from Wyoming High School in 2013 as his class salutatorian and getting a scholarship to the University of Virginia. There, he studied commerce and economics and was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity.

By all accounts, Warmbier was a planner. Someone who would always prioritize family and schoolwork over socializing.

"If Otto had anything schoolwork-related, job-related, family-related that he needed to do," Otto's friend Ned Ende told the Washington Post, "there was absolutely nothing you could say to him to convince him to do stuff with you."

But instead of graduating in May with the rest of his class, Warmbier was still in North Korea.

It wasn't a part of the plan.

Eye for adventure

In the spring of 2016, Warmbier signed up for a trip to North Korea with the Young Pioneer Tours travel group, a company that takes participants to places they wouldn't normally go.

"Otto was just a really great lad," Danny Gratton, Otto's roomate on the trip, told the Washington Post.

"I got to know Otto really, really well. He was such a mature lad for his age."

In pictures and videos from his time in North Korea, Warmbier can be seen smiling and enjoying himself.

One image taken during the trip shows Warmbier throwing a snowball and laughing.

"This is the Otto I know and love," Warmbier's brother Austin told CNN affiliate WCPO. "This is my brother."

In total, the trip was supposed to last five days. Warmbier had plans to visit Beijing, China, after he left North Korea.

But as he tried to depart from Pyongyang's airport, he was stopped in security.

According to the North Korean government, Warmbier was detained because he had sneaked onto a restricted floor of his hotel and had stolen a political poster.

The next time the world saw Warmbier he was distraught, breaking down in front of Korean journalists in a video released by North Korea in February of 2016. He admitted to the crime and begged for forgiveness and for his release. It's not known whether his confession was voluntary.

For his alleged crime, Warmbier was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. In the end, he spent 17 months in North Korea before being released. He was taken by a medical aircraft to the US.

Uncertainty ahead

It's not clear what lies ahead for Warmbier. Doctors at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center say his condition, while stable, is severe, and that he suffered extensive loss of tissue in all regions of his brain.

The circumstances under which he came to be in that state remain a mystery.

In a news conference on Thursday, Warmbier's father called his return bittersweet.

"[I feel] relief that Otto is now home in the arms of those who love him," he said. "And anger that he was so brutally treated for so long."
TOKYO, June 19 (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will likely reshuffle his cabinet to try to bolster ratings battered by suspicions that he helped a friend get favoured treatment for his business, media reported on Monday.

The Nikkei business daily, citing government and ruling party sources, said Abe would rejig his cabinet in August or September.

Abe will probably retain Finance Minister Taro Aso and close ally Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, but it was not clear if he would replace Defence Minister Tomomi Inada, Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida or Economy Minister Nobuteru Ishihara.

A slew of fresh public opinion polls showed support for Abe's cabinet slumping sharply, with Mainichi newspaper reporting that his ratings had fallen 10 points to 36 percent, the biggest drop since he took office in December 2012.

Non-support for Abe rose to 44 percent, the first time it surpassed the percentage of backers since October 2015, after parliament enacted controversial security laws expanding the scope for military activities overseas, the Mainichi said.

Last week, the education ministry unearthed documents that the opposition said suggested Abe wanted a new veterinary school run by a friend to be approved in a state-run special economic zone. The ministry had said it could not find the documents but reopened the probe under public pressure.

Abe has repeatedly denied abusing his authority to benefit his friend.

Opposition politicians and the media have identified Abe's friend as Kotaro Kake, the director of the Kake Educational Institution, which wants to open a veterinary department. The government has not approved new veterinary schools for decades because of concern about a glut of veterinarians.

Almost three-quarters of voters in the Mainichi survey said they were not persuaded by the government's insistence there was nothing wrong with the approval process.

The institution has said it had acted appropriately

Voters were split over last week's enactment by parliament of a controversial law that will penalise conspiracies to commit terrorism and other serious crimes.

But many expressed distaste for the ruling coalition's tactics in rushing the bill through parliament.

The ruling bloc took the rare step of skipping a vote in committee and going directly to a full session of parliament's upper house. Almost 70 percent of voters said the bill had not been sufficiently debated, according to the Mainichi survey.

Ruling Liberal Democratic Party support still far outstripped that of the opposition Democratic Party, the polls showed.

(Reporting by Linda Sieg; Editing by Michael Perry)
SINGAPORE, June 19 (Reuters) - Chicago wheat slid almost 1 percent on Monday as the market took a breather after rallying around 5 percent in the last two sessions on the back of dry weather hitting U.S. yields. Corn gave up 1.5 percent, while soybean prices were little changed in early Asian trade. FUNDAMENTALS * Chicago wheat climbed to its highest in almost a year at $4.68-1/2 a bushel on Friday as dry weather threatened to reduce U.S. spring wheat crop production. * Reports of disappointing yields in early harvesting of the hard red winter wheat provided additional support. * Forecaster Commodity Weather Group said that the rain outlook was still very limited in the western Dakotas and Montana during the next two weeks, which will hinder development of spring wheat in those areas. * Concerns about crops in the Black Sea region buoyed wheat prices. Wheat exports from Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan were expected to fall 3.3 percent to 50.4 million tonnes in the upcoming season, which starts on July 1, according to a Reuters poll. Production was also seen falling. * The monthly U.S. National Oilseed Processors Association report released on Thursday, which showed crushings well above analyst forecasts, was still adding strength to the soybean market. * Large speculators trimmed their net short position in Chicago Board of Trade corn futures in the week to June 13, regulatory data released on Friday showed. * The Commodity Futures Trading Commission's weekly commitments of traders report also showed that noncommercial traders, a category that includes hedge funds, trimmed their net short position in CBOT wheat and trimmed their net short position in soybeans. MARKET NEWS * Asian stocks began the week modestly higher on Monday after Wall Street offered little guidance, while sterling and the euro steadied before the start of talks over the terms of Britain's exit from the European Union. DATA AHEAD (GMT) 0130 China House prices May Grains prices at 0129 GMT Contract Last Change Pct chg Two-day chg MA 30 RSI CBOT wheat 461.00 -4.25 -0.91% +1.60% 436.21 69 CBOT corn 378.25 -5.75 -1.50% -0.33% 373.97 51 CBOT soy 938.75 -0.25 -0.03% +0.43% 943.28 58 CBOT rice 11.34 -$0.06 -0.57% -1.22% $10.94 60 WTI crude 44.51 -$0.23 -0.51% +0.11% $47.72 31 Currencies Euro/dlr $1.120 $0.000 -0.02% +0.47% USD/AUD 0.7624 0.001 +0.11% +0.63% Most active contracts Wheat, corn and soy US cents/bushel. Rice: USD per hundredweight RSI 14, exponential (Reporting by Naveen Thukral; Editing by Joseph Radford)
BUCHAREST, June 19 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Romanian financial markets on Monday.

DEBT TENDER

Romanian debt managers aim to sell 500 million lei ($122.20 million) worth of April 2024 treasury bonds.

RULING SOCIAL DEMOCRATS

Romania's ruling leftists filed a no-confidence motion in parliament on Sunday against their prime minister, Sorin Grindeanu, escalating a conflict which government critics say reflects internal rifts over anti-corruption policy.

NATO

The United States is concerned about possible Russian incursions along NATO's Baltic borders during large Russian military exercises in September and will send more troops to the area, the commander of U.S. troops in Europe said on Friday.

CEE MARKETS

The dinar hit 17-month highs against the euro, helped by Serbia's reforms to improve revenue collection, which may yield a credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor's on Friday, while other Central European currencies also firmed.

LABOUR COSTS

Hourly labour costs in Romania rose by 17.2 percent on the year in the first quarter, the biggest rise in the European Union, Eurostat data showed. Ziarul Financiar

NON-PERFORMING LOANS

Romania's tax authority ANAF ran an inspection of banks and found they had sold non-performing loans for very small amounts, deciding not to accept tax exemptions in some cases. Ziarul Financiar

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By Clyde Russell

LAUNCESTON, Australia, June 19 (Reuters) - There has been no shortage of advice doled out to incoming BHP Billiton chairman Ken MacKenzie on how to boost the world's largest mining company, but ultimately his role comes down to a fairly straightforward choice.

Does BHP want to be a cutting edge mining company always on the prowl for the next big opportunity, or does it want to be a cautious, dividend-focused cash generator, something akin to being the telecoms utility of the mining world?

If there is anything that can be learned from the performance of BHP, and indeed most of its global mining rivals, in the past decade, it's that escaping the ups and downs of the commodity cycle is extremely difficult for a miner.

BHP's Australia-listed shares ended at A$22.99 ($17.51) on June 16, down 8.3 percent since the end of last year, but still above the closing low of A$14.20 on Jan. 21, 2016.

On that view BHP's share price performance doesn't actually look that bad, with the stock gaining rapidly from the January low last year on the back of sharp gains in the price of its main profit earner, iron ore, as well as other commodities, especially coal.

But over the longer term, BHP's performance becomes much less impressive.

The stock dropped to just above A$19 in November of 2008, in the wake of the global financial crisis.

Buying BHP at that point would have been a good investment as the shares took off as China poured massive amounts of money into resource-heavy infrastructure projects in order to stimulate growth after the global downturn.

BHP rode the wave to a peak of A$44.89 on April 11, 2011, but after that it was all downhill until the low of January 2016, as iron ore and coal notched up five consecutive losing years.

BHP'S ROLE IN ITS OWN DOWNTURN

It would be a simple argument to say that BHP merely tracked the decline in commodity prices, but that ignores the company's own complicity in causing prices to slide.

In common with its peers, BHP decided to use the cash generated from the sharp rise in commodity prices on the back of Chinese stimulus to dramatically boost production, particularly in iron ore.

As soon as one major producer decided that the China story was a never-ending gift to miners, basically they all had to follow or stand to lose market share.

The management and board of BHP at the time made the mistake of believing the optimistic view of forecast Chinese steel output, while ignoring the historic fact that virtually every commodity boom is ended by too much supply being built.

The company was perhaps too loose with its cash. With the benefit of hindsight it overpaid for its U.S. shale assets and it frittered money away on failed attempts to take over a Canadian potash producer.

It took a few years to realise the errors, and BHP dramatically shifted course when appointing Andrew Mackenzie as chief executive in May 2013, with his razor-like focus on driving down costs and pulling back from the deal-making beloved by his predecessor Marius Kloppers.

BHP today still appears to be running very much along the lines Andrew Mackenzie set, namely a strong focus on cost-control and boosting efficiencies in order to generate strong cash flow.

The problem is some investors want more, with activist shareholder group Elliott Management pushing for BHP to exit its U.S. petroleum business and focus more on giving returns to shareholders.

The appointment of former packaging executive Ken MacKenzie as chairman can be chalked up as a victory for Elliot, given the hedge fund's demand for board renewal and new thinking.

But how much should MacKenzie listen to shareholders such as Elliott, given they are most likely focused on maximising returns on a fairly short-term basis, as opposed to longer-term investors such as pension funds that make up the bulk of BHP's shareholders.

It's here where MacKenzie has to look at what kind of company BHP wants to be.

If he chooses the Andrew Mackenzie model of trying to be the best at digging up and shipping various minerals, then BHP should focus on returning as much money as possible to shareholders as dividends, while making it explicit that those returns will be linked to the vagaries of commodity prices.

On the other hand, BHP can try to run as leanly as possible while still aggressively seeking expansion opportunities using the cash generated from its existing operations.

That sounds like the best path, but the problem is it seems that virtually every major mining company struggles to simultaneously be both a cutting-edge, growth-focused innovator and a cost-driven dividend play.

Disclosure: At the time of publication, Clyde Russell owned shares in BHP as an investor in a fund. (Editing by Richard Pullin)
By Bernadette Christina Munthe

JAKARTA, June 19 (Reuters) - Indonesia is not worried about a recent slump in prices for rubber as market fundamentals remain strong, the industry body in the world's No.2 producer of the commodity said on Monday.

Moenarji Soedargo, chairman of the Indonesian Rubber Association (Gapkindo), made the comment in the wake of a weekend meeting of the main international rubber producer group, held in Indonesia.

He declined to give details of discussions at the gathering, where producers had been expected to talk about rubber prices that touched seven-month lows early this month, partly due to a slowdown in imports by top consumer China.

"Supply and demand conditions now are quite healthy, even better than two years ago," Soedargo said.

"Fundamentals are good, Gapkindo is not worried about prices."

He added that global rubber stocks currently stood at around 2.4 million tonnes, down from more than 3 million tonnes in 2015.

"What is happening now is technical factors ... are affecting market condition and putting pressure on prices," he said, without elaborating.

Soedargo also said that Indonesian production would taper off over the next few months as part of the usual production cycle, helping tighten global supply and supporting prices.

"Starting July, leaves will start falling and rubber production will gradually drop from month to month ... until September," he said.

(Reporting by Bernadette Christina Munthe and Fransiska Nangoy; Writing by and Osamu Tsukimori; Editing by Joseph Radford)
JOHANNESBURG, June 19 (Reuters) - Sibanye Gold's Cooke mine in South Africa will remain shut until at least Thursday as the company goes through an appeals process for workers fired for taking part in a wildcat strike, it said on Monday.

Sibanye is losing 15 kg of gold production there per day, highlighting the social risks of mining in South Africa.

Spokesman James Wellsted said the company was concerned about the safety of its employees after receiving reports of threats of violence against miners not supporting the strike.

"We want to make sure the environment is safe for our employees," he said. Sibanye said last week it had fired 1,500 workers at the mine, which employs almost 4,000 underground miners, but they could appeal their sacking.

Workers at the mine downed tools almost two weeks ago, angered by a company drive to root out illegal miners which has included the arrest of employees for collusion.

Illegal gold mining has plagued South Africa for decades, with bullion pilfered from both disused and operating mines, and Sibanye has vowed it will clear all illegal miners from its shafts by January 2018. (Reporting by Ed Stoddard; editing by David Clarke)
GENEVA, June 19 (Reuters) - Trepca 89, the first team from Kosovo to enter the Champions League, were first out of the hat as the draw for the opening rounds of the 2017/18 competition took place on Monday, just 16 days after last season's final.

Celtic were the only former European champions among the 39 teams who featured in the draw for the first and second qualifying rounds of the contest, which will end in Kiev on May 26.

The Scottish side will enter in the second qualifying round where they will face either Linfield, from Northern Ireland, or San Marino champions La Fiorita, who were drawn together in one of the five first-round ties.

Trepca will make the long trip to the Faroe Islands after being paired with Vikingur in the first round tie, with the winners meeting Icelandic champions Hafnarfjordur in the second round.

Kosovo was granted UEFA membership in May 2016 but Feronikeli, the champions at the time, were not granted a UEFA licence for last season's European competitions.

Serbian champions Partizan Belgrade were paired with Buducnost Podgorica from neighbouring Montenegro in one of the top second round ties. Swedish champions Malmo, who reached the final of the old European Cup in 1979, face Macedonia's Vardar Skopje.

Austrian champions Salzburg, who have made nine unsuccessful attempts to qualify for the lucrative group stage since energy drinks manufacturer Red Bull became sponsors of the club in 2005, will start their latest campaign against either Hibernians of Malta or Tallinn of Estonia in the second round.

There are four qualifying rounds before the group stage where the biggest clubs from Spain, Germany, England and Italy enter the fray. (Writing by Brian Homewood; Editing by Alison Williams)
By Paola Totaro and Matthew Ponsford

LONDON, June 20 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Each week, at least four men and women vanish without trace or are found dead, cut down in a hail of gunfire.

In Cambodia, a single mother is separated from her two children, arrested and locked up in prison.

On the dry savannahs of Brazil's Mato Grosso do Sul, farmers shoot dead a 26-year-old indigenous man in broad daylight.

In Bangladesh, a university professor receives death threats from an al Qaeda-inspired militant group.

Mysterious disappearances, political murders, the killing of women, gangland hits: thousands of cases, seemingly unrelated, are reported every year from all corners of the globe.

Evidence suggests the number of dead is soaring - and political scholars and activists believe they are connected.

They say people are dying protecting their land and homes from global industry's relentless push to develop the natural resources beneath their feet with the bloodshed a direct product of a phenomenon dubbed 'necropolitics' or 'politics of death'.

WOMEN WORST HIT

According to global watchdogs, resource-rich Honduras and Nicaragua are the world's deadliest countries for land deaths per capita, while Brazil tops the list in sheer numbers.

And women - often at the frontline of conflict defending home and children - accounted for more than half of the dead.

Subhabrata 'Bobby' Banerjee, professor of management at the University of London's Cass Business School, has studied global development projects and the people who resist them for more than 15 years.

He says academic colleagues have built the Environmental Justice Atlas, a global database of conflicts over natural resources and development, which shows numbers climbing.

"Right now there are more than 2,000 reported hot spots around the world," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

"The reality is that there are probably three times that number which are not reported because they are not sexy and don't make TV news."

CAN THE DEAD BE COUNTED?

During an interview in his office among the glass towers of London's financial heart, Banerjee said much of this violence unfolds in the former colonies of sub-Saharan Africa, South America and Asia, where the law has ceased to function.

Criminal gangs, mercenaries and extremist groups step in to this vacuum of law and order, he says, creating a kind of "death world" by deciding who will live and who will die - and entire communities can be forcibly removed.

Banerjee says in many parts of the world, the dual roles of the state - to encourage economic development and protect citizens - can become "schizophrenic".

"If a state is in a joint venture with a mine which involves dispossession or forcible displacement, what are the conflicting interests?" he said.

"At one level you have to create jobs, collect taxes, while at another you have to kill your citizens to make that happen."

Watchdog groups, including Front Line Defenders (FLD), Global Witness, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, say last year was easily the deadliest on record for activists trying to defend their homes and environment.

This year is on track to be much worse.

More than 1,000 citizens in 25 countries were murdered, harassed, imprisoned or intimidated while fighting for their community's rights in 2016, according to FLD. Of 281 recorded deaths, half were attempting to defend their homes and land.

Global Witness researchers told the Thomson Reuters Foundation that its newest report, due for release next month, will reveal another climb in the death toll and is expected to eclipse the dramatic 59 percent rise seen between 2015 and 2016.

Andrew Anderson, executive director of FLD, said a global project - HRD Memorial - was launched this year to document violence that often unfolds in remote areas so goes unrecorded.

The partnership of 20 organisations - including national rights monitors from countries including Brazil, Uganda and the Philippines - will also examine deaths that had been officially attributed to crime so as to identify which ones were, in fact, the slaying of human rights defenders over land.

The coalition hopes this exercise will provide a more realistic picture of the extent of violence related to land.

"We know that the scale of the problem is immense, despite severe barriers to documentation. Access to remote areas, lack of adequate police documentation at the local level, and fear of reprisals all make reporting difficult for local communities," Anderson said.

"In the vast majority of cases documented in 2016, killings were preceded by warnings, death threats and intimidation which, when reported to police, were routinely ignored."

COLLUSION

So far this year, monitoring groups in Colombia, Mexico and the Philippines have verified the murder of 88 land rights defenders - more than four a week - in just three countries.

Comite Cerezo Mexico reported 30 killings between January and May 31, Karapatan in the Philippines documented 26 deaths between January and March, and Somos Defensores registered 32, also to May.

This trend shows that despite increased attention on human rights defenders (HRDs), there remains almost blanket impunity for the "masterminds of these assassinations" and their hired guns, said Adam Shapiro, FLD's head of campaigns.

Shapiro said increasing numbers weren't surprising but 88 murders in less than six months should not only be a cause for extreme alarm but should compel authorities to act.

"In health terms we would be referring to this as a pandemic, but, unlike a virus, the killing of HRDs is intentional and criminal," he said.

Speaking from Paris this month after field trips in South East Asia, Michel Forst, the United Nations rapporteur on human rights defenders, said he believes the numbers represent "the tip of the iceberg".

"The attacks are becoming stronger: this is not random violence but deliberate attacks to eliminate those who are trying to protect their land and their traditions. In some countries it is a war, collusion between powerful interests, corruption and organised crime and companies," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

"Many communities, including indigenous communities, are affected around the world but we don't know exact numbers because information comes through NGOs and so many are alone, working unprotected."

With violence escalating, the global corporate world is also becoming acutely and increasingly aware of the reputational - and economic risks - if they are linked with the abuses.

In April, an analysis by the Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC), which monitors 7,000 companies in 180 countries, found "clean" energy projects are battling with the industry's unforeseen toll of human rights conflicts.

The sector - which includes growing markets in solar and wind energy generation - is struggling with legal costs and reputational risks incurred by companies' needs to accumulate large areas of land, said BHRRC.

Researchers questioned 50 companies in a report that revealed only 10 percent of companies referred to U.N. standards on free, prior and informed consent when negotiating with communities whose land they want.

Experts say the cost - in both dollars and lives - is encouraging renewable energy companies to learn from the mistakes made by their predecessors in fossil fuels and mining.

A study by Harvard's Kennedy School and Australia's University of Queensland examined conflict between mining firms and communities in 2014, finding companies wrote off up to $379 million in assets and $1.33 billion in projected reserves.

Forst said his report, due to be released later this year, will focus on business and on identifying ways to ensure the defenders are protected.

He said some corporations, including the U.S. jeweller Tiffany and the Italian energy giant ENEL, are already doing some pioneering work in this area.

"ENEL has a policy which recognises the role of defenders," he said. "If they feel that a group of defenders or indigenous communities don't want to talk to them or refuse to consult, they will simply stop immediately."

"Many others are very aware of the problem and, if not trying to solve it, are at least participating in discussion."

Gregory Regaignon, Research Director at BHRRC, said there is a chasm between a few leading companies taking meaningful steps and the much larger group of laggards.

"These companies treat social impacts as a voluntary menu, picking and choosing issues where they can undertake corporate philanthropy and, at worst, think these actions somehow diminish their responsibility to do no harm."

FALSE NARRATIVES

Nor is the world's media much help, according to Ariadna Estevez, professor at the Centre for Research on North America at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico.

Its "obsession" with framing violence through a lens of organised crime, gangs and drugs means the public and policymakers are misled, she told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Analyses of migration patterns from countries such as Honduras reveal a clustering of criminal, misogynistic and political violence which can be directly linked to forced migration and displacement from resource-rich areas.

Estevez argued this cannot be coincidence and asks why, if gang violence is the chief driver of migration across Central America, the number of Honduran displaced persons increased nearly 600 percent in 2015, while gang-related murders fell, according to a 2016 report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre.

Perhaps the answer lies in the fact that development projects are historically among the greatest drivers of displacement, with an estimated 15 million people pushed off their land a year since the mid-2000s, according to the most figures cited by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre.

"Criminal violence, while potent, is just part of a dangerous cocktail that serves to 'cleanse' places where local communities are defending their home territory," Estevez said.

And this failure to grasp the true causes means government policy on migration is often doomed to fail, Estevez added.

U.S. investment in projects designed to discourage migration by stimulating the 'Northern Triangle' of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, may well have the opposite effect, she added.

By financing one-off infrastructure, rather than creating sustainable local projects, investors may in fact further spur land grabs that in turn accelerate migration, she said.

WHO IS A TARGET?

Amnesty International's Secretary General Salil Shetty says global leaders are dismantling legal protections for land defenders to organise and stand up for communities' rights.

"What we are witnessing today is a full frontal assault by governments, armed groups, corporations and others on the right to defend human rights," he said in a statement last month.

Yet the murder of activists represents only the most direct outcome of state policies designed to clear resource-rich lands of populations to make way for development, said Estevez.

"Deadly situations" can arise alongside murder, she said.

Denying access to the lands that have fed communities for generations threatens lives as does the forced transfer of local populations to new and often dangerous workplaces, such as mines or mega construction sites.

The murder of women - who often choose to spearhead high profile campaigns to protect their communities - should also not be written off as a "private" crime, unconnected to government or gang violence, Estevez says.

In Latin America, for example, data from Front Line Defenders and Global Witness shows the region now accounts for half the world's deaths. And more than half of last year's global roll call of the dead were women.

NEW FRONTIERS

From diamonds, gold and silver in Africa to precious woods in Latin America to the fertile farmland of Southeast Asia or the coal mines of India and Bangladesh, the modern world's demand for natural resources is insatiable.

It is often in the most remote frontiers, areas that are poorly understood, where development mega-projects - many financed by western financial institutions such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund - deliver the greatest danger to local communities.

The U.N. Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to "life, liberty and security" and that nobody can be arbitrarily deprived of their property.

Worldwide, experts estimate about one billion people live and work land without secure property rights. Without legal protection, communities are vulnerable and live with the constant risk of wrongful eviction or forced displacement.

Banerjee said the vacuum of law and order created in these so-called "states of exception" can also unfold in big cities, for example in the sweatshops of New Delhi or migrant-dominated industries and illegal sweatshops of New York, London and Paris.

Increasingly, clashes are also erupting over urban land needed for residential growth in the world's developing cities. In some global cities like Lagos, valuable city centre and waterfront land has become a war zone.

Banerjee insisted it was too easy to blame globalised capitalism, adding that in socialist-led economies of countries such as Venezuela or Bolivia - which is now headed by the indigenous politician and activist Evo Morales - people are also being forced off land and killed to make way for development.

"The model is the same but instead of the capitalist killing people, you have socialist governments which have made dissent illegal," he said.

"Instead of the money going to multinationals, these nations are using it to build roads, hospitals, schools," he said, but wealth accumulation by dispossession was "pretty much the same".

Experts said the lightning rod for clashes is increasingly reserves of as yet untapped 'tech metals', including lithium, cobalt, cadmium and rhodium.

Generally rare, the metals are needed to make miniaturised computer equipment, advanced weapons systems and clean and renewable energy storage, such as solar panels and batteries.

The market is growing every year.

In the first months of 2016, lithium prices trebled after electric car maker Tesla announced plans for a $5 billion lithium ion battery plant in Nevada known as a "gigafactory".

The new plant will produce more lithium ion batteries each year than were produced worldwide in 2013, massively boosting demand for the light metal.

The price spike for lithium also sparked a battle between Chile, Argentina and Bolivia - known as the 'lithium triangle' - to prove who could offer the most business-friendly environment.

The stampede of corporations vying for a stake in the market spans from North America to Europe, Latin America to Australia.

The dark side of the lithium boom: a race to exploit the world's biggest reserves, which lie beneath the Bolivian salt flat of Salar de Uyuni, and could end traditional salt mining.

Cobalt is another tech metal which is found 10,000 miles across the equator in the impoverished Democratic Republic of Congo where 60 percent of the world's cobalt lies buried.

Cobalt is needed in energy storage and is integral to the green technology revolution but its extraction has sparked fears of violence in a nation with a history of weak governance and bloody conflict over resources.

In September, a Washington Post investigation revealed more than 100,000 men work underground, using just their hands and simple tools, to produce the metal needed for products such as Apple's Iphones. It said deaths and injuries were common.

All the global watchdog organisations agreed that the fight against mining projects is now the most dangerous form of activism, although the newest figures also suggest a marked upturn in killings related to forestry and logging.

More than 20 Park rangers and forest guards were murdered last year alone, according to Global Witness and signal a dangerous new front to watch.

PRIVATE VIOLENCE MARKET

Academics and activists said in many parts of the world, violence has flourished due to a blurring of responsibilities between the state and corporate sector.

This is best exemplified by an increasing reliance on private security forces to maintain law and order.

Half the world lives in countries that employ more private security workers than public police officers, according to research funded by the Washington-based Pulitzer Centre for Crisis Reporting. Their analysis covered 40 countries, including China and the United States.

The global market for private security services, including private guarding, surveillance and armed transport, is now worth an estimated $180 billion, forecast to hit $240 billion by 2020.

Speaking in his London office in front of an Australian Aboriginal flag, Banerjee said private armies are no longer the exception, but the norm. Increasingly the security personnel used by big corporations are better funded and resourced than traditional police forces or national military, he said.

However unlike their publicly funded counterparts, private armies are not accountable to the state or international law, leaving victims of violence vulnerable to injustice.

OLD FIGHTS

The concept of necropolitics - the politics of death - was coined by a Cameroonian philosopher, Achille Mbembe, in 2003.

Mbembe argued that while in many western nations, the state alone has the right to kill - and only to safeguard life and maintain law and order - in other regions, particularly developing, post-colonial nations, the state is not the only purveyor of violence.

In Africa, states use the fear of death to maintain control, often through private militias whose power can be bought and sold in the market place, Mbembe wrote.

His 'politics of death' also encompassed social death, including racial or gender exclusion, persecution, apartheid, slavery or political violence.

Other scholars - from Mexico to Slovenia - have adopted and adapted it to shine light on their own cultures.

Students are now taking this approach to Peru, Chile, Brazil and India, as well as Eastern Europe, said Banerjee.

In many parts of the world where natural resources are fuelling developing economies, indigenous communities are hamstrung because they do not have the legal right to refuse proposed developments, according to environmental lawyers.

Both Forst and Banerjee said in most places they have studied - particularly Australia and India - negotiation between developers and indigenous communities focus on conditions under which the mining proceeds, not on whether it should ever happen.

"It is always about `how many jobs, how many hospitals, how many schools, how much tax, how much royalties'," he said. "The question has never been 'can mining proceed at all?'"

Until they have a veto option, he says, communities will not be able to decide whether to allow exploitation of their resources, let alone organise a resistance to unwanted projects.

Big money, however, is beginning to talk, according to Anne Simpson, a director of the California Public Employees' Retirement System, which manages $300 billion in assets.

She said that for her long-term U.S. investors, human rights in the renewable energy sector is now fundamental to what projects they back - for both moral and financial reasons.

"More community engagement must be fostered to ensure that the transition to renewable energy truly benefits communities and does not create undue risk for investors," she said in a speech in April.

Estevez, Banerjee and Forst all believe the system of self-regulated corporate social responsibility (CSR) needs a rethink.

They argue there is more than an echo of old colonial trade arrangements when big companies in powerful cities stepped in to take on state responsibilities offering healthcare, education, sanitation and infrastructure in return for access to resources.

"For the well-meaning liberals in the West, it's all about 'inclusion'. The communities I speak with, they don't want to be included. They want to be left alone," Banerjee said.

"The violence of the last 50 years has clearly shown who bears the brunt of development and who does not. So I think the discourse has to change from CSR and inclusion in development, to the right to say 'no' to development."

Regaignon, of BHRRC, said many companies tried to assess and respect the human impact of their investments.

"The best companies include intense stakeholder engagement based on respect for communities rights through the entire life of the project, from planning to end use," said Regaignon.

"However, one of the most alarming things we found was that even companies with strong commitments on paper, face serious allegations of harms to communities on the ground."

Ultimately, the option for communities to veto development must always be on the table, he said, and companies must "respect their decision if they do not grant their consent."

In the 2014 Harvard report examining the cost of land conflicts to the mining industry, lost staff time managing such clashes was cited as the most overlooked corporate bill.

"Such conflicts can easily escalate - and then come the major advocacy campaigns and law suits which certainly do show up on the corporate ledger," wrote Professor John Ruggie.

Conflict and bloodshed over resources in new frontiers, concluded Banerjee, is not new to human history. The difference between the past and the 21st century is the advent of corporate social responsibility CSR programmes, he says.

"The mining industry is a good example: if you look at these conflicts, every single company involved in these conflicts has won awards in CSR, have published sustainability reports, these companies tick all the boxes for good practice," he said.

"Then the question is why are people being killed on their mining sites? Something is obviously flawed." (Reporting by Paola Totaro and Matthew Ponsford, Editing by Belinda Goldsmith and Lyndsay Griffiths; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, property rights and climate change. Visit news.trust.org)
With her strategy unclear and her position insecure, Prime Minister Theresa May plunges this week into tortuous divorce talks with the European Union that will shape Britains prosperity and global influence for generations to come.



At one of the most important junctures for Europe and the West since the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, Mays government is reeling from a crisis of her own making - the loss of her parliamentary majority in a June 8 snap election she did not need to call.



Such is the collapse of Mays authority that her entire Brexit strategy is being picked apart in public by her ministers, her lawmakers and her allies on the eve of formal negotiations which begin in Brussels on Monday at 0900 GMT.



Despite signals from both France and Germany last week that Britain would still be welcome to stay if it changed its mind, Brexit minister David Davis insisted on Sunday there would be no turning back.

As I head to Brussels to open official talks to leave the EU, there should be no doubt  we are leaving the European Union, said Davis, who will launch the talks with chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier.



Now, the hard work begins. We must secure a deal that works for all parts of the United Kingdom, and enables us to become a truly global Britain.



Britain has less than two years to negotiate the terms of the divorce and the outlines of the future relationship before it is due to leave in late March 2019. Both sides need an agreement to keep trade flowing between the worlds biggest trading bloc and the fifth largest global economy.



But the other 27 members of the EU combined have about five times the economic might of Britain. They also have a strong incentive to deny the UK a deal so attractive it might encourage others to follow the British example.



With May still hammering out the details of a post-election deal to stay in power with the support of a small Northern Irish party, there are fears of a disorderly exit that would weaken the West, imperil Britains $2.5 trillion economy and undermine Londons position as the only financial center to rival New York.

REUTERS, 18th

JUNE, 2017
London, (Daily Mail), 18 June 2017- The 2018 Queens Speech has been cancelled to give Brexit laws two years to clear Parliament in the face of a Remain backlash.



Scrapping the traditional occasion means this weeks Queens Speech will set out an agenda for the full two years - adding more pressure to an already crucial event for Theresa May.



Wednesdays speech - which was delayed from Monday by the chaotic election aftermath - will be dominated by Brexit laws and counter terrorism proposals.The Conservatives delayed this years Queens Speech as the party held discussions with the DUP to thrash out an agreement on propping up the minority government.



A formal deal has yet to be secured but Tory sources have said there is a broad agreement on the principles of the speech, and State Opening will now take place on Wednesday June 21 - two days later than originally scheduled.
Extending a helping hand to communities in the Anuradhapura, UK-based charity, the Charles Education Centre, opened the Mahawilachichiya Education Center for Children with a view to providing underprivileged communities in the region with access to high quality educational facilities.

The new facility, which was completed with assistance from the Hayleys Group, will now be open to the schools growing student population with a particular emphasis on Information Technology (IT) and languages, as a foundation for significantly improved career opportunities and upward mobility in rural Sri Lanka

Our experience in establishing the Charles Education Centre has been a very personal one that first started when our daughter, Marissa, made her first journey to Sri Lanka and witnessed first-hand the desperate need of local communities for even the most basic educational facilities.

Having first established the Mahawilachichiya Education Centre for Children, it has been a truly heart-warming experience to see the passion for learning and self-empowerment begin to take root in children and adults from these communities and we in that regard express our sincere gratitude to the Hayleys Group for the valuable support in moving this important initiative forward, in order to enrich the lives of so many in the process, Charles Education Centre founder, Lovina Charles stated.

In keeping with the holistic Hayleys approach towards responsible corporate citizenship, the group also donated further resources towards the establishment of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) centre of excellence in the village of Mahawilachchiya with a view to providing vital, high-quality employment opportunities to a new generation of young students in the community.

Speaking candidly at the opening of the new building, Hayleys Chairman/Chief Executive, Mohan Pandithage reiterated the importance of education, and functional familiarity with IT for future generations.

The lack of quality educational services and facilities remain one of our countrys greatest limiting factors to future growth. In order to support true broad-based growth and prosperity it is imperative that initiatives like the Charles Education Centre are supported and emulated in underprivileged communities across the island. By empowering future generations we will enable new growth paradigms in Sri Lanka, he stated.

Given that a majority of parents in the region are predominantly farmers, Hayleys also took the bold step to establish its pioneering moringa out grower model into the community under the Jeewadhara programme. Initiated in Sri Lankas Northern Province through a highly successful network of 100,000 out growers, the Mahawilachchiya moringa project is anticipated to drastically enhance farmer incomes and livelihoods while creating a sustainable supply of pods and leaves for domestic consumption and value added exports.
Since the heavy rainfall hit Southern, Western areas of Sri Lanka in late May, the severe floods and landslides had caused injuries, casualties and property losses of thousands of families.

The international emergency response team of the Red Cross Society of China, with the relief goods of the Chinese government arrived on 3rd June, for conducting disaster relief mission.

China National AeroTechnology International Engineering Corporation (Avic-Eng), affiliated to Avic Intl, as the contractor of the extension of Southern Expressway Project Section 1 from Matara to Beliatta, were affected extensively by the floods. Even though suffered in the flood damages, the Chinese company is still supporting the local government and people viaseries of relief activities. Chinese company Avic-Eng also dispatched volunteers joining in relief team working from the flood peak period till now with China Red Cross Team on 8th to 9th June, 2017 in Matara area.

The Red Cross relief team and Avic-Eng worked hard and helped homeless victimsnormalize their lives by establishing considerabletemporary shelters in various divisions of Matara area. The smiles and the appreciation of the displaced victims and local authorities are greatly encouraging the joint team to work more for the benefit of the people.

The calamity has destroyed the homes of the people, but connected the ties between peoples worldwide. As a Chinese company, Avic-Eng not only performed well in projects such as A09 road rehabilitation, runway overlay at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) for the benefit of the Sri Lanka people but also focuses on consistently performing his social responsibility to strengthen the friendship between the people of China and Sri Lanka.
Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Vigneswaran said that there is a conspiracy being hatched in Colombo to remove him from office.

He had made this startling revelation when a group of supporters walked into his official residence and expressed their solidarity with the CM with regard to the no-faith motion brought against him.

He said, It is in Colombo that this conspiracy has been hatched. I do not like to reveal the persons behind it now. However, I will tell you how it happened.

He said the Council ministers knew that an investigation was going to be conducted into some of their activities.

I have to decide whether to take action against them or not after examining the facts mentioned in the report. Whatever action I take those conspiring against me will get their way. If I decide that no wrong has taken place, they plan to say that I am shielding the culprits, if I punish those responsible for the wrong-doings, then they will still try to kick me out saying that I am wrong to do so. Either way, I am doomed. They will have their way. It is our own people who said that an investigation should be conducted. That is the reason why we appointed a committee to investigate these allegations," he said. (By Romesh Madushanka)
Edulink International Campus, once again plays the role of being a leader in the education industry in nurturing entrepreneurship amongst the youth in the country by launching an international journal on entrepreneurship titled as International Journal of Management and Entrepreneurship.

The aim of this publication is to share knowledge among students and the public to improve the understanding of entrepreneurship and management concepts and to motivate the young generation to undertake entrepreneurial ventures of their own.

Through this venture Edulink becomes the first private education institute in the country to launch an international journal on Entrepreneurship.

The launch of the journal was attended by the Chief Guest Raj Dass, Principal Lecturer, Faculty of Business, International Collaborations Representative (SE Asia)) and a host of other dignitaries from the academic industry such as Prof. Sunanda Degamboda, University of Kelaniya, Prof. K.A.P Siddhisena, Emeritus Professor of Demography, University of Colombo, Dr. Sampath Kehelwalathannaenna , Faculty of Management and Finance, from the University of Colombo, Dr. Dinesh Samarasinghe, Faculty of Business, University of Moratuwa, Dr. Nalin Abeysekera, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences from the Open University of Sri Lanka, Dr. Thusitha Kumara, Faculty of Management from the Uva Wellassa University and Dr. Pavithra Madhuwanthi, Faculty of Management Studies & Commerce, from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

The first copy of the journal was ceremoniously handed over to the Chief Guest by The Director of Edulink International Campus Kanishka Weeramunda. Also in attendance were other key members of Edulink International Campus comprising of Damith Gangodawilage, Deputy Campus Director and Head of Academics, Dr. Ruwan Jayathilakaileke , Senior Lecturer and MBA programme lead, the Editor of the journal, Dr. Hasintha Premerathnaaathne and the assistant editors Ama De Silva and Tuan Hamidon.

The articles presented in the journal are from various individuals from industry and academia and five Edulink students and two Edulink staff members.

Topics cover e-learning. readiness in tertiary education in Sri Lanka with special reference to IT education, determinants of the growth of the export industry in Sri Lanka , the impact of lean management on banking sector performance in Sri Lanka, the importance of brand equity in consumer buying behavior, the effect of macro-economic factors on non-performing loans of Sri Lankan financial institutions, price elasticity of railway passenger demand and student perceptions on the quality of the private higher education sector.

The articles deliver relevant, incisive, high-quality content to inspire entrepreneurs to achieve their own business success, and delivers a call to action. Each of the articles comprise of case studies of local success stories that readers can learn valuable business lessons from, and provide insights into actionable steps entrepreneurs can implement. Local and international experts also weigh-in on these pertinent topics, covering a broad range of business issues, along with many tips and ideas on how to make a success of an entrepreneurial venture.

Editor, Dr. Hasintha Premerathna, said the Journals main objectives are to provide a forum for the best research and to become a leading platform for undergraduate and postgraduate researchers to publish their work. In doing so, the Journal grants students a unique opportunity to learn and judge the qualities of good academic writing. We are very excited about the very first launch of the journal that will provide a home for high quality original research and review papers.

Director of Edulink Campus Kanishka Weeramunda added to these comments by stating this journal aims to assist in the growth of entrepreneurship, by inspiring our young generation to understand its value and benefits and to drive them to look into launching their own innovative companies. It provides them with the tools and motivation to do so, as well as advice, insight, and guidelines.

This journal, is a first step towards cultivating and garnering the interest of the younger generation in entrepreneurship, and in fostering , harnessing and motivating the entrepreneurial landscape amongst the countrys youth.
Keeping the unity among the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) could not be sustained among the allies, even in Parliament, unless the No-Confidence Motion against Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran was not withdrawn, Eelam People's Revolutionary liberation Front (EPRLF) Leader Suresh Premachandran opined yesterday.

EPRLF, ITAK, PLOTE and TELO are the constituent parties in the TNA.

The motion has been signed mainly by the ITAK members. The other three parties met last evening and discussed modalities to sort out the problem.

Mr. Premachandran told the Daily Mirror that the motion should be withdrawn as otherwise the TNA would not be able to keep its allies together in Parliament as well. (Kelum Bandara)
From left: Ms.Ruwini Dharmasiri, Chairperson Waste Management Authority (Western Province) ,Isura Devapriya ,Chief Minister Western Province and Mr Imal Fonseka Group Chief Executive Officer, Fairway Holdings

Fairway Waste Management (Pvt) Ltd and the Waste Management Authority of the Western Provincial Council recently signed a Concession Agreement to form a Public-Private Partnership that would create a sustainable model for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) processing at Karadiyana in the Western Province.

A subsidiary of Sri Lankas leading conglomerate  Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, Fairway Waste Management recently joined in the task of ensuring that Colombo will soon be transformed into a waste-free city, with the support of leading global expertise and modern technology.

The 22-year Concession Agreement is a key legal document and testimony of confidence and solidarity between the developers, investors and the Government of Sri Lanka.

While addressing the treatment of biological waste, which is hazardous to the public (odor, methane emissions, water pollution etc.), the agreement paves the way towards a major reduction in the diversion of waste to landfills. This also marks a new beginning for the residents of the areas around these landfills who are forced to deal with the ill effects of an unhealthy environment caused by open dumping.

As the Concession Agreement is for a Public-Private Partnership, all current managers of the site will remain in active partnership with Fairway Waste Management for the duration of the project. Further the company intends to build up local capacity in waste processing technologies by creating new employment for Sri Lankans during the construction, operation and maintenance of the waste-to-energy plant at Karadiyana.
Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) General Secretary and Minister, Patali Champika Ranawaka said today the Mahinda Rajapaksa faction, which was dreaming of making Gotabaya Rajapaksa the leader of the country, were slinging mud at the JHU.

He said they were accusing the JHU of hiding Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary Galagodaatte Gnanasara thera.

The minister said certain media institutions were supporting this mud-slinging campaign against them and recalled that it was mud-slinging by the media institutions which led to the defeat of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He told a news conference that Mr. Rajapaksa should know the whereabouts of Gnanasara Thera if he telephoned the counsel who was appearing for the thera.

It is the same counsel who appeared for Mahinda Rajapaksa, Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Udaya Gammanpila, who is appearing for Gnanasara thera. He is a main orator of the Viyath Maga programme meant to bring Gotabaya to power. He may know the whereabouts of the Gnanasara thera, he said.

The minister rejected the allegations made by BBS CEO Dilantha Vithanage that he and Athuraliye Rathana thera had given contracts to Gnanasara thera and said the JHU had no connection with Gnanasara thera after the 2004 election.

We have no connection with Gnanasara thera. He supported Ranil Wickremesinghe in 2005, Sarath Fonseka in 2010 and Mahinda Rajapaksa in 2015. He did not carry out any contracts for us, he said.

He said there were no allegations against Gnanasara thera when he was working with the JHU and pointed out that the monk was in this situation only after he started working with NGO people like Dilantha Vithanage.

He said Muslims complain about their religious places of worship being attacked while Tamils and Sinhalese complain about their religious places being attacked.

It is the responsibility of the police to take action against those responsible. Law should be implemented against everyone irrespective of their status. If Muslims and Tamils were also making hate speeches they also should be punished. Acts of violence is taking place throughout the world including Germany, Britain and the US, the minister said.

He said a certain group which had links with global terrorism was operating in the country endangering democracy. (Ajith Siriwardana)
Jaipur, (Hindustan Times), June 18, 2017 - Click a photo of people defecating in the open, and name and shame them. For the officials involved in the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, this is the simplest and the most effective way to make people give up the habit of reliving themselves in the open. The simple act, however, has not gone down well with those at the end.



A man who protested against civic officials clicking photographs of some women defecating in the open in Jaipur was brutally beaten up, resulting in his death.



The locals are angry at the death of Zafar Hussain. They are also angry at the approach that the officials have taken to deter them from defecating in the open. Its not a matter of choice for them, they say. The toilets were in bad shape earlier, and although they have been renovated recently, they are still unusable. When HT visited the community toilet, the centre painted bright yellow, all 10 were found far from being in usable condition.
HINDUSTAN TIMES, 18th JUNE, 2017-Raging forest fires in central Portugal killed at least 62 people, most of whom burnt to death in their cars, and injured scores of others, the government said Sunday. Portugal declares 3 days of national mourning.



Nearly 600 firefighters and 160 vehicles were dispatched late Saturday to tackle the blaze, which broke out in the afternoon in the municipality of Pedrogao Grande, about 50 kilometres (30 miles) from Coimbra, before spreading fast across several fronts.



Unfortunately this seems to be the greatest tragedy we have seen in recent years in terms of forest fires, a visibly moved Prime Minister Antonio Costa said.



The number of fatalities could still rise, he said at the Civil Protection headquarters near Lisbon.

The priority now is to save those people who could still be in danger.
A usual scene at a govt. hospital

I was hoping to continue my discussion from where I stopped on June 13 in the article titled Spotlight on doctors, earnings disregarding their service regarding some issues pointed out by Mr. Roshan Dodanwela in his article on May 31. However, an article by Mr. Sarath N. Perera published on June 13 warrants addressing as well. It also contained some misinterpretations and erroneous statements that should be corrected.

Mr. Perera, being a learned lawyer, has completely missed the essence of my very first article (published on May 24), the key point being that doctors should not be judged by an occasional strike, but by what is carried out daily. His article reminds me of the blind man who took hold of the elephants tail and thought it was the elephant in its entirety. But when a person with sight does that, hes deliberately ignoring the obvious.

Mr. Perera looks at a day when doctors have been on strike and thinks its all they do, completely disregarding what they do on other days, thereby painting a distorted picture of doctors wasting public money. He seems to have written his article with this fallacy. He has misinterpreted several points I mentioned to suit his agenda, thereby causing irreparable damage to the opinion of the same fair-minded and balanced citizens he has mentioned, who come to government hospitals day after day and reap the benefits of public health services provided by doctors (and other staff) educated with their money. Hence, while Mr. Perera has the right to hold onto his wrong impression, if he so wishes, it is our duty to enlighten the public regarding the truth so they wont be misled. Also, the recent strikes have been due to politicians dragging on the issues without properly addressing and resolving them despite repeated requests; and even during strikes, about ninety percent of work is still carried out (as pointed out in my first article) which goes unnoticed as usual.



Mr. Perera at a certain point has commented by citing many an occasion on how politicians are playing out public funds, the author cannot justify the doctors and medical students wasting public money. However, my article was to emphasize that we DONT waste public money, hence how would I justify it? Not only is it a misinterpretation but also an erroneous statement, as it implies I have accepted that like politicians, we are also wasting money, which is his opinion and not mine.

Another fabrication is that Im trying to single out doctors in the GMOA and portray them as a special category of government servants on the basis that they contribute to the free healthcare services. For one thing, I never mentioned anything about the GMOA as I was writing on behalf of all doctors irrespective of the union, though Mr. Perera keeps referring to the GMOA. Also, Im not trying to single out doctors by mentioning the services we provide but trying to affirm that we are carrying out our duties as expected; and although he accuses that I was ..conveniently forgetting.. that we are taught by the state for those very purposes, what I emphasised was that we were already fulfilling them day in and day out, while people like

Mr. Perera are conveniently forgetting we do so because of an occasional strike.

"Mr. Perera looks at a day when doctors have been on strike and thinks its all they do, thereby painting a distorted picture of doctors wasting public money"



Both Mr. Dodanwela and Mr. Perera have missed my point regarding medical students. I didnt complain about the difficulties, nor give it as another reason why doctors should be treated differently from other professionals as Mr. Perera has (once again) misinterpreted. What I stated was their commitment, effort and hardships are completely ignored, and money is the only factor talked about regarding medical education. I didnt mention students of other faculties in my first article because it was irrelevant to my topic (which was about doctors and medical education) and not because I was in the complete dark about their difficulties. But since both gentlemen have raised that issue, I would make a few comments.

Mr. Perera talks about taxpayers money allocated for free medical education and therefore doctors are eternally indebted to the ordinary citizen and there is a duty and obligation to serve his/her motherland rather than pursuing greener pastures abroad. Unfortunately, he seems to be in the dark that they apply to all streams of higher education. All university students are educated with taxpayers money. However, how many contribute to the public sector after passing out? While emphasising my intention not to make any discriminations, it has to be said that apart from the medical faculty and a few others, only a minority of those in other faculties would work in the public sector to serve the people who funded their education, while the majority would work in the private sector, abroad, or remain unemployed. But no one complains about the waste of public money spent on them, or about their eternal debt. Im not saying its their fault, as the government has failed to absorb them into the public sector and make use of their services. My point is that while a vast majority of doctors are giving back their services to the public health system after passing out, there are still those criticised for wasting public money based on an infrequent strike, which is unreasonable and totally absurd. It is not only doctors but numerous other government employees (who would also have been educated with the taxpayers money) who go on strike, but nobody talks about wasting public money on their education. Hence, obviously theres discrimination and even professional jealousy towards doctors.



Mr. Perera has questioned why doctors of the GMOA are joining with government medical students and causing them to refrain from carrying on educational activities while private medical college (PMC) students are allowed to carry on. Its a well-known fact that throughout history, university students have protested whenever they are faced with unresolved issues, especially against threats to free education, and its the same situation at present. Its the students decision and not caused by doctors, which is a baseless allegation. Regarding the so-called PMC students, leaving aside their educational activities, actually they shouldnt be there in the first place because among other things, its lacking, it hasnt got SLMC approval and there were warnings by the SLMC to the public, which students and their parents have disregarded.

Mr. Dodanwela has commented on the burden of accountability when working abroad. If accountability is such a burden in foreign countries, why do some doctors migrate and seek employment abroad? And when they start feeling the burden, why dont they come back? Obviously, its not an issue for doctors doing their job properly; and when he states so doctors have it easy here where accountability is concerned, I wonder whether hes implying that doctors here are careless and negligent, because its due to vigilance and proper care that thousands of lives are saved daily. Unfortunately, when things run smoothly, they go unnoticed as always, and a few isolated incidents are given enormous publicity. It must be emphasized that certain incidents publicized in the media where doctors are accused of medical negligence are interpreted by people or journalists with no medical background and the truth could be completely different when analyzed correctly from a medical point of view.



An issue regarding our medical standards has also been pointed out by Mr. Dodanwela. Though they are nowhere near the best compared to Switzerland, Norway or Australia, its absurd, even ridiculous, to compare our services with those countries. Doctors there work under ideal conditions, excellent facilities, comfortable environments and have enough time to spend on a patient. The conditions we work under dont come anywhere close, with a heavy workload, overcrowding, time constraints and insufficient facilities and staff. While admitting that its good to explain to the patient their medical condition, medication, side-effects and so on, unfortunately its not practical here because the situation doesnt allow for that. There are three to four hundred patients appearing in a few hours in clinics and thousands of patients in OPDs, which means that only a few minutes can be spent with a patient to get their relevant details and to examine them and prescribe medication. If we try to follow whats done in the above mentioned countries, we wont be covering even half the number of patients in the available time. However, any significant issues would be conveyed to the patient.

Towards the end of his article, Mr. Dodanwela states  but when doctors go on strike, people suffer and can die. Though doctors dont let people die even when on strike, the concealed meaning of this statement carries an important valid point, which is,because of what doctors do everyday, peoples lives are saved and their suffering alleviated. Mr. Perera also states (while forgetting the work done in a hospital even during a strike) that almost all government hospitals are at a standstill at the time of the strike, and that working hours of other workers are lost due to work stoppages of doctors. If that is so, he has to admit that on all other days, government hospitals function smoothly because of the work carried out by doctors, which he has totally ignored.



Finally, considering the articles by the two gentlemen, one can see that to conclude that public money spent on doctors has gone to waste, Mr. Dodanwela has only considered our perks and rewards and a few negative issues, ignoring numerous positives, thousands of lives saved and illnesses cured; and Mr. Perera has only considered the ten percent of work thats not done on the day of an occasional strike, while disregarding the hundred percent service provided day after day. Its like considering only the tail and concluding that the elephant is like a rope, hence the money spent on it is a waste. The public should realize this obvious distortion and look beyond the tail at the elephant carrying logs.

I wrote this (and the previous) article hoping to clear up some issues that were pointed out. However, I wont be surprised if someone still finds something to argue about saying we are wasting public money. I appeal to the public not to judge doctors by strikes alone, which is only done about one percent of the time, but by the remaining ninety nine percent where they provide services for the public. Only then will you see the correct picture.
The most socially-engaging bank in Sri Lanka, Seylan Bank, won two major international awards for its performance on the social media platform at the Golden Globe Tigers Awards 2017 organised by the CMO Asia team.

The awards were bestowed for Seylan Banks use of digital channels and best digital media team of the year. These awards are an affirmation of the banks prime positioning as the pioneer of social media in Sri Lankas banking and finance sector.

With the innovative technological enhancements that have invaded the globe, the world is now setting trends for businesses to market their products and service to consumers using novel ways.

Seylan Bank being the leader in the social and digital media landscape in the financial industry in Sri Lanka has yet again proved that they are the leaders in the new-age media sphere in Sri Lanka. With a remarkable fan count of 566,000 plus on the Seylan Bank Facebook page, the customer convenience factors innovated have made banking much easier for all Seylan bank customers.

The bank was adjudged the winner based on the activations and innovative acts carried out in the year 2016-2017. Seylan Bank won these awards under the category of Excellence and Leadership in Digital Marketing.

As the pioneers to introduce digital marketing channels to the Sri Lankan banking arena it is indeed a privilege to remain as the market leader in the field of new-age media in the industry with due recognition to the increased level of competition. This has enabled us to serve our customers with utmost convenience and efficiency.

The awards weve received will be added to the 30 plus awards weve won for digital marketing in the past three years, which as awards does not mean much unless we actually add value to our customers. Therefore, the digital team at the bank and out collaborative partners believed that this is truly an affirmation of how far weve come in this journey of excellence in improving our customers banking experience, stated Seylan Bank Deputy General Manager and Retail Banking Tilan Wijeyesekera.

Seylan Bank also won the Best Use of Social Media for Customer Support at the CMO Asia  Social and Digital Marketing Excellence Awards during the last quarter of 2016.

Seylan Bank, lauded as Sri Lankas most socially-engaging bank, expanded its digital customer support services through the introduction of the Seylan Messenger Bot  a chat bot that responds to customer queries via Facebook Messenger. This new addition to the banks customer service channels helps provide real-time responses to basic banking and finance-related queries.

The bank also launched a novel youth product Seylan Seylfie, which offers banking on Facebook and digital interest. The customers banking with Seylan now have the option of banking via mobile through the Seylan Mobile Banking app, which can be downloaded via Playstore for Androids and Apple I store. Internet banking facilities and Seylan social banking facilities have made banking much easier for customers.

Seylan bank Chief Manager Liability Product Management and New-Age Media Dinesh Jebamani said Evolving with time to meet the needs of our customers we have always wanted to make life easy for our customers. And digital media is one such solution presented to our customers to provide innovative ways of interacting with the bank and providing convenient solutions. Our in-house dedicated team works with passion to ensure we meet all expectations of our stakeholders and collaborative partners loop solutions, to whom we are thankful in supporting us in this journey thus far.

Seylan Bank occupies a unique positioning as a flexible, customer-friendly choice and its proven relationship-driven service has helped it amass a loyal customer base of over 1.5 million customers. As a customer-centric bank, it has devised an innovative product portfolio, engineered to exceed customer expectations. As a result, the SME, minor savings, retail, corporate and credit card customer base has been steadily expanding.

The bank has ambitious plans of expanding its presence to new geographically strategic locations around the country and is proud to be one of the few banks in the world to utilize the power of social media and digital platforms to deliver superior customer support service.
REUTERS: The top firms in Californias Silicon Valley carry more weight on the global stage than many countries, which makes building diplomatic relations with them increasingly important, the worlds first national technology ambassador said.

Chosen to fill what his countrys foreign ministry has dubbed the first techplomacy posting on the US West Coast, Denmarks Casper Klynge will be tasked with building direct ties between his country and the likes of Facebook, Apple and Alphabets Google.

We are to continue doing traditional diplomacy with countries and organisations, but we also have to start looking into what relation you can have with these big tech companies, Klynge told Reuters in an interview.

The aim was to help Denmark understand the impact of rapid changes in digital technology while promoting the countrys interests and values - setting up a channel of communication that would also benefit the companies.

If you look at these companies involvement and significance for you and me, many of them have a much greater degree of influence than most nations, he said in comments cleared for publication late on Friday.

In economic terms, the new partners are comparable.

Denmarks 2016 gross domestic product was 2.06 trillion Danish crowns (US $ 310 billion), sitting between Facebooks current US $ 437 billion market value and the US $ 185 billion of Oracle Corp.

With tech companies under growing pressure to share encrypted information to prevent terrorism, Klynge also identified the ability of radical individuals or groups to exploit online platforms as a key issue.

We saw what happened after the terror acts in London when Facebook came forward and said they are ready to discuss how we prevent terror organisations using its network to promote their actions, said Klynge, who takes up his new role on September 1.

In May, Facebook was fined 150,000 euros (US $ 166,000) by Frances data protection watchdog for failing to prevent users data being accessed by advertisers.

If you look at what impacts us in our daily lives and how much data they can pull on all of us... (the firms) are truly influential players, Klynge said.

Technological diplomacy is one of Denmarks five foreign policy priorities alongside national security, Brexit, the Arctic region and migration, instability and terrorism.
Sri Lankas state-owned lenders such as Bank of Ceylon, Peoples Bank and National Savings Bank, have slightly lost their market share to privately held banks during the last three years, Fitch Ratings said.

But the three lenders still dominate the sector accounting for 83 percent of its assets.

According to Jeewanthi Malagala, a senior banking sector rating analysts at Fitch Ratings Lanka, the state-owned banks market share weakened by 400 basis points during the last three years due to the rapid expansion of loans by the private sector lenders.

The state banks market share could further weaken in the medium-term due to them having limited access to capital and substantial dividend payout, she said.

Due to their sole ownership structures, all state bank profits are absorbed by the government as its coffers remain shallow at all times.

During 2016, the state revenue target was predominantly met through the faster increase in the non-tax revenue, which included the profit transfers from state-owned enterprises.

Analysts both at home and abroad are of the view that the state-owned lenders will require substantial capital infusion in the wake of the BASEL III minimum capital adequacy requirements, which will come into full force from January 1, 2019.

The BASEL III transitional phase begins from July 1, 2017, with interim capital adequacy requirements till the banks meet the final ratios, which are substantially higher than the existing 5.0 percent and 10 percent.

Meanwhile, Fitch Ratings also showed that since 2013, Sri Lankan banks had grown their loans far exceeding the internal capital generation, which put caps on their ability to continue the same growth in the future.

The current pressure on banking sector earnings could also restrict the ability of the banks to generate internal capital and this remains specifically true for small and mid-sized leader.

The capitalization level of Lankan banks remains relatively weak even prior to BASEL III and their rush to beef up their capital buffers is likely to exert significant pressure on the countrys capital market.

The relatively lower returns by the banks however will be a challenge to make capital calls from their shareholders.

Sri Lankas top five lenders account for 65 percent of the sectors assets and the Fitch rated banks account for 88 percent of the sector assets.

Due to the challenging operating conditions that are expected, Fitch Ratings has a negative outlook on Lankan banks for 2017.
A special Parliamentary Session would be held on October 3 to mark the 70th Anniversary of Parliament, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said on Saturday.

He said Speakers of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) would be invited to the occasion. He said senior politicians would also participate in the event.

It was a praiseworthy that we have been able to hold Parliament for seventy years despite many obstacles including the failed coup attempt in 1960, youth unrest in 1971, 1989 and the 30-year war, he said.

"It is important that we have been able to uphold democracy despite these obstacles," he said.

Speaking at a workshop for journalists covering Parliament, Mr. Jayasuriya said that the Sri Lankan Parliament had been brought to a respectable position today where even the Inter Parliament Union (IPU) President, said that Sri Lankan Parliament was a role model for other countries.

"We have trained about 70 young Parliamentarians throughout the world," he said.

He said a few Parliamentarians had acted indecently during the recent past to discredit Parliament and added that new Standing Orders and Code of Ethics for MPs that had been presented in Parliament would be taken for debate on the 22nd.

He said that according to the new Standing Orders, the Subject Minister should be there to answer oral questions asked by the MPs.

"Otherwise, it would be considered an insult to the particular MP and Parliament", he said. (Ajith Siriwardana)
Sri Lankas PR Wire has earned the prestigious PR World Awards for the Single Boutique Office Category.

The coveted annual PR World Awards programme encompasses the worlds best in recognizing public relations, marketing, corporate communications, investor relations and business development professionals, teams, departments and achievements from every major industry in the world.

The other category Gold award winners included PR firms from Dubai, United States of America and Australia.

The winners will be honoured in San Francisco on Monday, June 26 during the annual 2017 SVUS Red Carpet Awards Ceremony Dinner.

Its an honour to be named a Gold winner by PR World Awards for this esteemed industry and peer world recognition, said PR Wire Founder and Managing Director Ashan Kumar.

These awards are a testament to the excellent work we do and the innovation within the industry with commitment to bringing global best practices to Sri Lanka. I dedicate this win to all our valued clients and the media of our country. I would also like to mention the role played by all our vendors and most importantly our team. PR Wire offers consultation and services to meet the marketing communications need that ranges from reaching mainstream media to engaging with new media. The agency helps organisations meet their communications goals through its global consultation team with roots in Sri Lanka.

The company plans to reach out to other geographies by the end of this year further taking another significant step towards expanding its company footprint globally. PR Wire is an affiliate member of Edelman, the worlds largest public relations firm. The company is also the very first independent CarbonNeutral PR agency in Sri Lanka.

PR World Awards is the worlds premier public relations and corporate marketing awards programme created to honour and recognize industry-wide and peer achievements and best efforts of agencies and in-house public relations, marketing, corporate communications, investor relations and business development professionals, teams, departments and achievements.

The Annual PR World Awards is part of the SVUS Awards recognition programme from Silicon Valley in the United States of America, which also includes other programmes such as CEO World Awards, Consumer World Awards, Customer Sales and Service World Awards, Golden Bridge Awards, Globee Fastest Growing Private Companies Awards, Info Security PGs Global Excellence Awards, Network Products Guides IT World Awards, Pillar World Awards, and Women World Awards.
The Songs We Love organised by the Senior Choir of Visakha Vidyalaya was unveiled at the Jeremiah Dias Hall on Friday, June 2 at 7.30 pm

I like to eavesdrop at concerts. I like to listen to what people say to each other, how it reflects what they are attending and how it reflects their milieu. It was a desultory Friday evening when I got down from my friends car and walked wearily, but with a sense of optimism towards Vajira Road. The concert I was attending that day had nothing that could make it stand out in my mind from the dozen or so other concerts that throb Colombo every week. To be sure, this one was organised by a school but could that alone make it stand out? Because I was optimistic, yet had no one to talk with, I hoped for the best, walked around and eavesdropped.

Fathers, mothers, siblings, cousins and friends of those involved in the concert were not discussing the concert. They were talking about the school and its history. They were talking about the scope of the event as opposed to the event itself. There would have been a dozen other topics they rushed through but I didnt hear them. In any case, conversation in Colombo, like in Texas, is seldom continuous. But then 100 years is a long time. It gives reason for disparate conversation. It gives reason for pride. I saw and heard both. Everywhere.

The Songs We Love, organised by the Senior Choir of Visakha Vidyalaya, in commemoration of their centenary, was a largely anglophile affair except for the last 15 minutes. There were songs I had heard before but did not cherish. There were songs I had not heard before but cherished. They took me back to that time when I first heard some of them around the piano by my music teacher. To be sure, the Jeremiah Dias Hall doesnt yield anything epic: its small, limited and austere. But there was nothing austere about The Songs We Love. Nothing small, nothing limited.

Its only fitting that I talk about the songs before the event. I heard the usual tunes: from Disney, Rodgers and Hammerstein to the eighties. I came to love Cindy Lauper through my mother. I adored The Sound of Music through my music teacher. I heard both. While I didnt cherish some, I didnt particularly dislike any of them, because how can one dislike music? And unlike most other school concerts I attended, there was nothing frilled up about it: you came, heard and enjoyed it. This has as much to do with the restraint of the choir as with the smallness of the hall, but regardless of the reason, I took to everything the choir dished us.

And it wasnt just about a bunch of songs we could have heard anywhere. It was an attempt to bridge one generation with another within 90 minutes. Past principals, teachers and even students had gathered and were interacting with their successors. They were all seated at the front, some of them old and mellowed, the others not quite so, and they were visibly moved. How could they not be, when The Sound of Music moved into Frozen and when Tangled moved to The King and I?



Theres something about these tunes that strike us. We live in a society which dotes on Jane Austen, Barbara Cartland and Danielle Steel. In music we are very much American and nostalgic, even if the songs we listen to are derived from Europe. No concert or party would be complete without I Could Have Danced All Night, Shall We Dance and My Favourite Things. Thats the way it has been and the way it will be, for some time at least. For this reason, whenever we hear these songs, we are taken back immediately. We hit the rewind button when they open up and by the time they are over, we are so happy that we are oblivious to the world around us.

And because that world around us is so austere, so musically disinclined, we have become incurable romantics who rebel against austerity even though we have next to nothing to help us rebel. Our school halls are small, our auditoriums a little bigger and our concerts a sordid, beaten down affair. We like to dream with what we sing, to adorn every mundane tune with colourful sets. So it was with The Songs We Love, which kept its performers changing from one costume to another, from one backdrop to another. That these were all played for us on a Friday evening helped tremendously, moreover: it helped us escape the banality of tomorrow.



Incidentally, there was no real order that could help us decipher a pattern. But in a concert like this, order can only be imposed artificially. It tends to keep us awaiting an end, which was what The Songs We Love didnt do. I couldnt fathom an end and I dont suppose the rest of the audience fathomed one either. We measured the minutes that passed by with the music. There would have been a schedule but I neednt have bothered looking through it. The discipline and the restraint of the organisers was enough to convince me to wait patiently, until the loose ends were tied up.

One cant eavesdrop while a concert is in session. One cant hear, one cant listen, so one has to see. Glancing around, I saw the two guests of The Songs We Love, both musically prodigies: Kishani Jayasinghe-Wijayasekara and Menaka de Fonseka Sahabandu. Kishani was visibly excited (who wouldnt be?) and as the songs were played out, one by one, I saw her reciting them silently. She might have been leading the Choir, so mesmerised was she by the schoolgirls. She might also have overlooked the visuals, which were only add-ons. Because those visuals were secondary to the performers, perhaps, Kishani did not drop her smile. That smile and the occasional beam of delight, kept the girls going. It kept us going too.

I dont know why the organisers opted for Sinhala songs towards the end but I suppose that helped tie-up those loose ends I alluded to before. So we heard the usual tunes: Nim Him Sewwa, Ran Tikiri Sina and that obligatory baila session that seems to bring the curtain down on every other school concert. They were special and overwhelming: Ran Tikiri Sina, for instance, kept me wondering where that other past Visakhian, Sumitra Peries was, while Nim Him Sewwa played on a rather bloated, epic scale not to be seen or heard with any of the English tunes before it, was a tribute to both composer (Nimal Mendis) and performer (Amaradeva). As for the baila medley: well, as I mentioned before, it was there because it was obligatory.



The Jeremiah Dias Hall isnt really epic. With a fertile enough imagination however, even the most mundane hall can be transformed. It rained rather heavily that Friday evening: the drizzle could be seen and heard and the wind kept bothering the pianist. But that drizzle and the raindrops that swept into the Hall added something natural. They were playing selections from Frozen around that time, incidentally: rather aptly, I should think. To do with what one has, to turn it into something bigger was what the organisers achieved at the end. Probably thats why there was very little compering (by the vibrant Kumar de Silva) needed, if at all.

100 years is a long time. The Songs We Love was just one among the many concerts, plays and other events organised to celebrate those 100 years. What we got werent just the songs we loved but also the songs we remembered. Not just remember, but remember with so much delight that they took us back to that time when we all stood around our music teachers and her piano to recite Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti blindly, without knowing the meaning behind it. I was, I admit, numbed, only because they kept me alive. For me, as it would have for Kishani and Menaka, the visuals came second. What mattered was what the show promised us. The schoolgirls kept that promise. Consequently, they kept me content.
Two people are feared dead after pedestrians were hit by a white van near a renowned north London mosque, in what is being described as a terrorist attack.



One man has been arrested but it is feared two more suspects may be on the run after the van ploughed into a crowd outside Finsbury Park Mosque, as they finished taraweeh, Ramadan evening prayers.



Eyewitnesses reported seeing bystanders wrestle the suspect to the floor and pin him down until officers arrived at around 20 past midnight.



Others added that the victims -members of the congregation- were trying to save a man who had collapsed at a bus stop. Other unconfirmed reports suggested that the attackers had knives and a man had been stabbed.



Emergency service crews were also spotted giving cardiac massages to the injured.



Mehdi, a 38-year-old worshipper, told the Evening Standard: There were loads of people coming out and the van took a left and went straight into them.



I saw four of five people on the floor. At least one person was stabbed.



The crowd caught a guy. He tried to do a London Bridge thing. Labour Party leader, Jeremy Corbyn expressed his shock at the incident, which took place in his Islington North constituency.

London, (Daily Mail), 19 June 2017 -
Matt Melvin is harnessing the suns energy to help power his new food truck business, but hes mostly focused on making good food.

Rudeboys joins Billings growing food-truck scene but adds a unique feature. Three solar panels are attached to the back and side of the truck, allowing Melvin to tap into a secondary, renewable power source to cut energy costs and, ideally, also boost production.

Im really just trying to figure it out and get it off the ground, Melvin, 34 of Billings, said.

The Goal Zero solar panels and generator cost about $3,000, which Melvin said he expects to make back this summer in energy cost savings. He uses the sun to power his point-of-sales system and the lights.

The rest of the truck, including the refrigerator, stoves and oven, is powered by propane. Melvin said he needs a reliable, secondary power source to keep the food cold and comply with health regulations.

The biggest advantage of solar on the food truck will be during festivals and events in the field, when Melvin said he will be able to keep power longer and sell more food.

As I become more successful, I will add more panels, he said.

Melvin said he learned of other food trucks using the panels in bigger cities and began exploring the costs.

Nationwide, average solar-panel costs have fallen about 9 percent this year. The cost has been falling in recent years as design and installation have become more efficient, according to EnergySage, an online solar price comparison market.

The industry has grown largely because of renewable energy tax credits, which are mostly available for panels installed on buildings.

Melvin did not seek subsidies for Rudeboys, which launched this spring. He invested about $70,000 to launch the business, financed through Western Security Bank with a Small Business Administration loan.

The truck was designed by Collaborative Design Architects. It has dark wood paneling with the Rudeboys logo like a walking billboard, Melvin said.

Inside, the truck is a smaller version of a restaurant, with a front and back house. It has enough space for about two people to work at a time, with stove tops in the back. Melvin developed a creative system for orders: customers receive a pin with a band name, which employees then holler out when the food is ready.

At Rudeboys, the menu is simple street food with a gourmet twist. The grilled cheese, for example, is on a croissant, and the fries are seasoned with rosemary. Melvin also bakes all his bread in-house, but his top focus is his customers tastes.

Were trying to fuse the classic world with the grubbiness Billings likes, Melvin said.

He added, I grew up with not a lot of money, so wed just throw things together Good food should be accessible.

Most recently, Melvin was the general manager at Lilac in downtown Billings. Hes worked at a variety of restaurants over the years.

Everything from greasy spoons to seven-plate dinners, he quipped.

The name Rudeboys is a reference to the Jamaican street rats of the 1950s and 60s, the discontented youth who wandered the poorer sections of town. It later became shorthand for fans of punk music and underground culture.

Melvin himself is a fan and took time after college to travel the country in a van, wandering from city to city.

Melvin recently returned from an event in Missoula, and hes planning to hit events statewide this summer, including the Red Ants Pants Festival in White Sulphur Springs. He also can be found in Billings at Yellowstone Valley Brewing, City Vineyard and Harper & Madison.

Both City Vineyard and Harper & Madison also sells Rudeboys bread on their shelves, Melvin said.
Montana Sen. Steve Daines has joined other Senate Republicans in objecting to the way party leaders are crafting a major health care bill behind closed doors.

Daines told Lee Montana newspapers Friday that he hasnt seen the bill, which Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has indicated will get a vote in the next two weeks.

I have been frustrated with the lack of transparency and the lack of visibility that we are having in this process, Daines said. I want to see a bill. Put down all these thoughts now in a bill so we can look at it. Then we can really have the best dialogue and conversation once you actually see it in a proposed law. It needs to be posted soon. I hope we get to see it next week.

Daines said for the bill to work for Montanans, it's going to have make health care more affordable. Health care expenditures are on track to become 20 percent of the U.S. economy. People with preexisting conditions are also going to need affordable coverage.

Daines and other Republicans contend that health costs have risen because of the Affordable Care Act passed by Democrats in 2010, though others argue that the health care costs in the United States have been rising for decades. Concern over those rising costs is what made health care reform a key issue in the 2008 presidential campaign and a priority for President Barack Obama.

The ACA became commonly known as Obamacare, a term coined by Republican lawmakers who opposed the policy and vowed to repeal it, which they are now doing.

Medicaid eligibility, expanded to include the working poor under the Affordable Care Act, needs to continue, Daines said, though the portion of the bill paid by the federal government will need to decrease.

I want to make sure that we would not pull the rug out from Montana from a federal perspective and make sure that we keep our obligation to the states that have decided to expand Medicaid, Daines said. Whether you agree with Medicaid expansion or not, the bottom line is this: The state has decided to go forward on that, and I believe its the federal governments responsibility to at least protect Montana through 2019 when Montanas Medicaid expansion program sunsets.

Roughly 79,000 working Montanans with incomes within 138 percent of the federal poverty level  about $16,400 a year  have signed up for Medicaid since the state opted for an expansion program included in the Affordable Care Act. The federal government agreed to pay 100 percent of the expanded programs cost for the first three years, with the federal share dropping into the 90s thereafter. Medicaid hadnt been available to the working poor previously.

Daines said Senate Republicans will allow states to continue the expanded Medicaid program  something House Republicans opposed in their Affordable Health Care Act legislation passed earlier this spring. The level of federal support for the program will decrease over a few years until by 2024 the federal government is paying 68 percent of the costs and states pick up the rest.

Much of the discussion surrounding the future of Medicaid expansion under Republican plans to replace the Affordable Care Act has assumed that expansion would stop in 2019 and that people who have taken advantage of Medicaid expansion would be pushed off the rolls. Daines said thats not what the Senate bill will offer, at least not as it currently exists.

There are those in the state who I think are putting out information thats not entirely accurate, creating a lot of concern and fears that frankly do not align with where it looks like this bill text is headed at the moment, Daines said.

Last week, the Montana Healthcare Foundation indicated the state would lose $4.8 billion in federal Medicaid funding between 2020 and 2026 under the Affordable Health Care Act passed by the Republican majority in the U.S. House.

That forecast is based on the House AHCA bill and does not reflect what the Senate might propose, said Aaron Wernham, Montana Healthcare Foundation CEO. Nothing is known about the Senate bill, Wernham said.

The Montana Healthcare Foundation was created in 2013, and came into existence as result of the sale of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Montana to a private corporation. In accordance with State law, the assets were transferred to a charitable trust to be managed for public benefit. The foundation did not make a recommendation on what Congress should do, but did focus on the benefits of Medicaid expansion to Montana.

From our standpoint, Medicaid expansion has done a very good job of doing what it needs to do, Wernham said. Since Medicaid expansion, our uninsured rate has dropped a lot, to 7.4 percent, which is compared to 11 percent nationally in 2016.

Before Medicaid expansion the number of uninsured people in Montana was around 20 percent, Wernham said.

What Medicaid expansion has meant to Montana health care is to make sure that medical bills get paid and that more Montanans are practicing preventative care rather than turning up in emergency rooms with complications from untreated medical problems.

Medicaid coverage has been critical at RiverStone Health in Billings. Yellowstone Countys provider of essential public health services sees 20,000 people a year, said Barbara Schneeman. Medicaid pays the bill for 35 percent of the people, most of whom are children or people with disabilities. Visits to RiverStone number 71,000 annually.

The non-Medicaid priorities for the Senate health care bill focus on lowering costs for the larger healthier portions of Americans who dont use insurance often. Republicans plan to use health savings accounts funded with pretax dollars help healthier Americans cover costs, Daines said. HSAs have been around for 14 years and allow people to make tax-deductible contributions to accounts for spending on medical needs. Theres no tax on the accounts as they grow. There are no taxes when the money is spent, provided the funds are spent on approved medical needs. Lawmakers in the House and Senate intend to beef up HSAs, which have been a staple of workplace health plans. Half of Americans rely on workplace health plans for insurance coverage.

Health savings accounts have been shown to be a way to help drive, frankly, market pressures on the system where it gives consumers choice, Daines said. Consumers spending money from HSAs while making medical decisions will seek the most affordable services.

Critics caution that HSAs are only useful if people can afford to invest. And HSAs work with lower-to average-cost medical expenses. Some expenses are too big for HSAs to cover. The funds are currently used by people with high-deductible insurance policies in which individuals must pay a higher amount of upfront medical costs before their insurance kicks in.

Another idea Senate Republicans are considering to drive down costs for private insurance in healthy populations is allowing the public to create larger private insurance pools than they have presently, Daines said.

People with preexisting conditions would then be put in a high-risk insurance pool, where the level of government support is higher to meet the medical costs of people with chronic health problems. Guaranteeing that health coverage is available for people with preexisting conditions is the goal.

House Republicans included a high-risk pool in their health care plan, but the funding provided was too low to meet demand. The Senate is still working the backstop for its high-risk pool plan, Daines said.

Montanas senior senator, Democrat Jon Tester, has criticized Republican plans to replace the Affordable Care Act, which Tester helped pass into law. Tester has said Republicans should focus on fixing the Affordable Care Act, rather than undermining it. Many of the problems facing the ACA could have been fixed over the years since Republicans gained majority control of the Senate and House, Tester asserts. But Republicans have been unwilling to improve the ACA and have undercut its banks in some cases.

President Donald Trump has harmed the ACA by threatening to withhold $7 billion intended to lower consumer deductibles and copays, according to Tester.

Tester supports continuing Medicaid expansion, improving cost-sharing terms for copays and deductibles, while also covering essential benefits for mental health, prescription drugs and preventative care.

Tester wants to continue allowing adult children to stay on parents health plans until age 26, a feature House Republicans included in the AHCA.
Veterans and their family members, as well as the public, are invited to join VA staff members from 5 to 6:30 p.m. to learn about veteran health care and benefits on Thursday the Billings VA Clinic, 1766 Majestic Lane.

Local health care providers are also invited to attend and learn more about how they might provide services to veterans enrolled in the VA system.

Staff experts will be available to answer questions about a wide variety of topics, including eligibility enrollment, billing, mental health, disability and death benefits and other select programs.

Also, the Montana VA human resources office will be present to provide information and answer questions about employment at the VA for nursing and other clinical positions, as well as administrative positions.

The Veterans Health Fair is hosted by the Montana VA.
News

Road closure: 54th Street West, south of Rimrock Road, is closed through Friday while Knife River-Billings performs utility installations. Traffic routes and access will be detoured around construction activity. During the closure, traffic on Grand Avenue westbound to Rimrock Road will be detoured north to Shiloh Road. Access to the Mont Vista Subdivision road and Trail Creek Drive at the north end of 54th Street West will be maintained only from Rimrock Road. Access to all other businesses and residences on 54th Street West, south of Mont Vista Subdivision Road will be maintained only from the south end at Grand Avenue. 651-2500.

Grant awarded: The Better Billings Foundation was awarded a $1,000 grant in support of a literacy program called 3 H Tutoring, a ministry at Harvest Church in the Heights. Chuck Barthuly, executive director of BBF, accepted the award at the recent 2017 Annual Awards Dinner hosted by the Billings Community Foundation.

Support groups

* Note: Closed meetings are for those seeking help only. At open meetings, those seeking help may bring support people or the public may come for more information.

Alcoholics Anonymous groups:

At 6:30 a.m.: Brown Baggers Open at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 13th St. W. and Crawford

At 6:45 a.m.: Closed book study at Fieldhouse, 2601 Minnesota

At noon: Open Westend Group at 2931 Colton; Closed at 848 Main, Suite 8; Open Downtowners at 17 N. 31st; Closed at 1801 Broadwater; Brown Baggers Closed at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 13th St. W. and Crawford

At 6 p.m.: 644 Group at 510 Cook

At 6:30 p.m.: Closed Gap to Recovery at Peace Lutheran Church, 1301 Avenue D

At 7 p.m.: Open at St. Bernards Catholic Church; Closed Three Legacies Group at Unity Church, 14th St. W. and Lynn Ave. (use east side entrance)

At 8 p.m.: Closed Recovery Group at 1002 10th St. W., Suite 4; Closed at 510 Cook; Closed Westend Group at 2931 Colton; Open Downtowners at 17 N. 31st

Al-Anon groups:

At noon: Courage to Change at American Lutheran Church, 5 Lewis

At 7 p.m.: Atonement Lutheran Church, 1290 Sierra Granda Blvd.

Narcotics Anonymous groups:

At noon: Solution Seekers at 17 N. 31st

At 6 p.m.: New Freedom Group at 2757 Phyllis Circle; Steppin Out at 244 Wicks Lane

At 7 p.m.: End of the Road at 3123 Eighth Ave. S.

At 8 p.m.: Solution Seekers at 17 N. 31st

Other support groups:

At 10 a.m.: Parents Learning And Nurturing Together (PLANT) at Family Tree Center, 2520 Fifth Ave. S.; T.O.P.S. MT 395 at Hope Lutheran Church, Highway 87E

At 4 p.m.: Domestic Violence Education at Angelas Piazza, 420 Grand

At 5 p.m.: T.O.P.S. MT 485 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) at Heights Baptist Church, Hilltop and Garnet

At 6 p.m.: Overeaters Anonymous at Montana Room, Medical Arts South, 1230 N. 30th; GriefShare at Faith Evangelical Church, 3145 Sweet Water; Grief Group for Suicide Loss at UCC Conference office

At 6:30 p.m.: T.O.P.S. MT 547 at Windsor Estates clubhouse, 900 Lake Elmo

At 7 p.m.: CODA (Co-Dependents Anonymous) at American Lutheran Church, 5 Lewis; Overcomers Outreach at 645 Howard; Sex Addicts Anonymous (men only) at 1801 Broadwater; Celebrate Recovery at Living Water Church, 4119 Clevenger; Open Gamblers Anonymous at Grace United Methodist Church, 1935 Avenue B

Lottery

Big Sky Bonus: 3, 14, 20, 23  Bonus ball 3
The Billings Gazette is committed to promoting volunteerism as a way to build a caring community for all citizens. This listing includes opportunities registered with the United Way Volunteer Center.

Reading Rocks/Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools

Call Julie at 245-4133.

Join us in the parks to volunteer to read with kids from noon to 1 p.m., June 19-27. For more info go to efbps.org.

YWCA Billings

Call Ashlee at 252-6303.

On-call Sexual Assault Advocates provide support to survivors of sexual violence during the forensic examination.

For information about other opportunities or how to have your volunteer opportunities listed in this column, call 406-272-8511 or go to YouCanVolunteer.org.
More than 50 people were injured after a second-story deck collapsed Saturday at the Glacier Camp on Flathead Lake, according to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

A 10-foot-high section of the deck buckled after a memorial service held in the camps lodge. KRMC Public Information Officer Allison Meilicke said patients were taken to at least five area hospitals.

Two KRMC patients remain in critical condition, she said, and one was transferred to a hospital in Seattle.

Our operating room was busy all night, she said.

Other patients went to North Valley Hospital, St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson, St. Luke Community Hospital and St. Patrick Hospital.

Lake County Sheriff Don Bell wouldnt speculate about how the collapse occurred, saying the camps insurance company will likely look into the incident.

It was not a crime, so we wont be investigating it, Bell said. Itll be handled between the property owner and the people who got injured yesterday.

Whatever made the deck fail will be determined  by the insurance investigator.

Emergency personnel from Missoula to Kalispell helped at the camp, which is just south of Lakeside on Presbyterian Camp Road. The closest city with a hospital is Polson, more than 30 miles away.

Most of the injured were taken in ambulances or transported by helicopters, while 10-15 people went on their own Saturday, Bell said. More could have gone to the hospital on their own overnight and today. he added.

Three helicopters, including KRMCs ALERT air ambulance, were used to transport the injured.

You have two ambulances in town, but when you have 20-plus people hurt ..., Bell said, explaining the importance of mutual aid.

One of the first responders was the Lakeside/Somers Fire Department, Chief Tom Havens said.

The call came in around 4 p.m., saying a deck had collapsed and at least 30 people were injured.

We called resources, all we could get, Havens said.

By the time Havens arrived, he said the scene wasnt as calamitous as expected; he saw people of all ages, from three years old to ages 80 to 90 helping each other.

Most of the injuries seemed to be broken bones, along with scrapes and bruises, Havens said.

There wasnt a whole bunch of hollering or anything, he said.

The Lakeside/Somers Fire Department is reporting the incident and their actions to the insurance company, according to Havens.

Glacier Camp released a statement Saturday evening, which is posted on its website: This afternoon, we had a major accident at camp. Please join us in praying for the injured and their families. We are grateful to all of the EMTs/Paramedics, fire departments and first responders who came to our aid. We ask for your prayers for all involved. We will not have camp in session this week.

Two camps were scheduled the week of June 18, according to Glacier's website: a junior high camp and a horse riding camp.

Glacier Camp, according to its website, is owned by Glacier Presbytery. It was established in 1931 on the western shore of Flathead Lake and, in addition to religious camps and retreats, offers wedding, event and meeting spaces.
Imagine youre deciding whether to buy a house. You go to the bank and they say you have $5,000 in your account and are qualified for a $200,000 loan. The house you want to buy costs $400,000 and your realtor tells you that theres no way to even think about making this work without a down payment of at least $40,000. Would you confidently go ahead and try to buy the house, brushing aside the information youd received? Of course not. When we make decisions, we do so based on the facts available to us.

Donald Trump lives in a different world  a world where facts dont matter and theres no need to worry about consequences. There is a temptation to write this off as Trump being Trump. But it is not all that different from the approach other Republicans take when it comes to dealing with facts and reality in other contexts  consider the climate change deniers, who cheerfully dismiss troubling scientific evidence, trusting the problem to take care of itself (or perhaps to be addressed by divine intervention).

Consider Trumps response to James Comeys dramatic Senate testimony. Comey testified that:

1. The president lied about a number of serious matters.

2. The president pressed him to stop investigating Michael Flynn.

3. When Comey did not do Trumps bidding, Trump fired him, in an apparent effort (based on Trumps own admissions) to relieve the pressure associated with the Russia investigation. Comeys testimony also strongly suggested that special counsel Robert Mueller is now investigating possible criminal activity by Trump himself.

There are different ways to respond to this. One way would be to anticipate and plan next steps: Are there specific ways to rebut what Comey said? Are there other witnesses who can testify in support of Trump? In other words, one could consider how to use facts and evidence to present ones case and to consider whether the facts and evidence already presented are simply too damaging to overcome. But that is not the approach Trump is taking. Instead, Trump is trying, once again, to create his own version of reality. Last week, he tweeted: Despite so many false statements and lies, total and complete vindication [by Comey]

There is simply no way to understand Comeys testimony as vindicating Trump. Comey flatly described Trump as a liar. Trump has categorically denied asking Comey to stop the investigation into Flynn; but Comeys sworn testimony directly contradicts Trump. Trump has publicly denied asking Comey for his loyalty; Comeys sworn testimony also directly contradicts Trump on this point. Comeys testimony pointed to possible obstruction of justice by Trump. None of this vindicates Trump. Either Trump is lying or Comey (under oath) is lying  and Trumps credibility is not his strong suit.

Trump is making a mistake if he hopes he can simply pretend Comeys testimony has put him in the clear. It is easy to ignore facts in unsworn public statements or social media posts. But that does not make those facts disappear. The reality for Trump is that special counsel Muellers investigation is going ahead. Its impossible to know what Mueller will find and what he will do, but failing to plan for the possibility that Mueller will take action could be a serious mistake.
Montanans should be appalled that children have a higher risk of dying in our state than any other.

For Montana health professionals, the report isnt shocking. Montana has long had the highest suicide rates and nearly the highest motor vehicle fatality rates in the nation. The latest annual Kids Count Report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation reflects those facts, and spotlights the grim truth that dozens of Montana children are the victims of these two preventable causes of death.

Montanas general population suicide and motor vehicle fatality rates are double the national average. For children and teens, Montana rates more than double the national average.

Motor vehicle crash is the No. 1 leading cause of death for Montana youth, and suicide is No. 2. In 2015 alone, 29 Montanans under age 19 died in motor vehicle crashes and 18 died by suicide. The latest Kids Count report is based on 2015 data.

Suicide with guns

In the general population, boys are more likely than girls to kill themselves, according to statistics compiled by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Most suicides are completed with firearms, and that percentage is higher in Montana than nationally. Access to firearms is a factor in our high suicide rate.

In Montana, Native American youth have a higher suicide rate than other youth, and Native American girls are more likely to complete suicide than boys are, according to DPHHS.

As for motor vehicle crashes, the most common factor in fatalities and serious injury crashes in our state is lack of seat belt use. About three-quarters of Montana drivers buckle up, but nationally, seat belt use is 10 percentage points higher, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Young people are less likely to use seat belts than older drivers, even though the states graduated drivers license law mandates seat belt use for novice drivers.

Those novices are aware that older drivers cant be stopped for seat belt violations unless they commit some violation in addition to failing to buckle up.

Weak seat belt law

Every two years, traffic safety and trauma care professionals plead with the Legislature to make Montanas seat belt law enforceable in the same way as all other state traffic laws. So far, all those pleas have been rejected. Primary enforcement would prompt more people to use seat belts regularly; it would save lives of children and teens.

Reducing suicide is more complicated. The 2017 Legislature agreed to allocate $1 million to prevention efforts. Billings Public Schools plans to screen adolescent students for depression in an effort to get at-risk students help before they are harmed. However, in May, voters turned down a request for funds to hire more mental health counselors.

Montana must improve access to mental health care. One key is making sure that everyone  especially children  has private or public health coverage. Healthy Montana Kids, which includes Medicaid and non-Medicaid government-funded care, covers about 120,000 low- and middle-income Montanans under age 19. Weve got to keep kids covered to reduce our suicide rate.

Another challenge for Montana is the stigma surrounding mental illness and treatment. Our kids need to learn that its OK to get counseling and medication for depression  just as they would go to a clinic and receive treatment for pneumonia.

Its terrible that Montana has the nations highest child and teen death rates. Its unconscionable that most of these deaths could have been prevented.

Time to step up traffic safety and mental health care, Montana. Our childrens lives are at stake.
University of Mary has received a $210,000 Dash Emergency Grant from Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation & Affiliates for a student emergency aid program.

If a student is already struggling to make ends meet, an unexpected car repair or medical bill might cause that student to withdraw from college.

Thanks to the Dash Emergency Grant, University of Mary has the resources to provide modest emergency grants to our students in times of greatest need, said Jayne Hardy, director of the Student Success Center at Mary.

University of Mary will begin making student emergency grants in the fall. Students will complete an application detailing their financial emergency. A University of Mary committee will review the application, and expenses up to $1,000 will be paid within two business days of approval. By quickly removing financial distractions, students can refocus on their studies and continue toward graduation.

University of Mary is one of the first four-year colleges to receive a Dash Emergency Grant from Great Lakes. A combined $7.2 million in grants was awarded to 32 colleges in Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin.
This is Up and Down, where we give a brief thumbs up and thumbs down on the issues from the past week.

Up

North Dakota can use every tool it can get in the war on drugs. Thats why the Heartview Foundations use of methadone treatment for recovering opiate addicts is good news. The use of methadone is closely monitored and the opiate-based drug helps people kick the cravings and withdrawal symptoms, keeping them from relapse. Heartview started offering the treatment in March and so far there havent been any reports of misuse of the drug. Not everyone agrees its the best way to deal with addiction, but the Tribune believes we need to try everything available to stop the growing drug problem.

Down

North Dakota farmers have been wanting to grow hemp for years. Recently, thats been possible on a limited basis, but the federal government continues to create roadblocks. Legal questions have stopped producers from making a key derivative, cannabidiol, or CBD, a non-psychoactive substance derived from cannabis plants, which reportedly helps people with seizures and anxiety. The Drug Enforcement Agency considers most CBD to be a Schedule I illegal drug. The DEA said the problem with CBD isn't the substance itself, but that most of the available product comes from "clandestine manufacturers," who are pretending their product comes from the legal, mature stalks of hemp plants, but are in fact from plants the agency considers to be marijuana, not hemp. There needs to be a way to resolve this issue so North Dakota farmers can have another option.

Up

If you are in high school and looking to the future theres good news. The coal industry needs skilled workers and its willing to pay well to fill the jobs. Some jobs start at $84,000 with benefits. The industry encourages students to take more science and math classes so they can prepare for the technical jobs that are available. These arent old-fashioned coal mining jobs, but positions that provide for a solid career. Parents and teachers are being asked to encourage students to check out the possibilities. It makes sense to look at the opportunities.

Down

The recent rain was encouraging, but it didnt end the drought. In fact, some areas went from moderate to severe drought last week. Bismarck lifted its water restrictions while asking residents to continue to conserve water. It looks like it could be a long, dry summer so everyone needs to be aware. We shouldnt waste water and we should be careful not to do anything that could result in fires.

Up

Oil production numbers from April provided a little boost for North Dakota. Production increased 2.4 percent, more than officials expected. Natural gas production also hit an all-time high. While North Dakota isnt close to the numbers during the oil boom, there are signs that oil patch activity is slowly on the rebound. North Dakota should be happy with a gradual comeback. Oil still offers a better future for the state.
New Delhi: He is a born frequent flier -- a baby boy, born today 35,000 feet above sea level on a Jet Airways plane from Saudi Arabia to India, has received a free lifetime pass from the airline as his first birthday gift.

Jet Airways flight 9W 569 took off from Dammam for Kochi at 2.55 am today and when an expectant mother travelling onboard went into premature labour the crew declared a medical emergency and diverted the flight to Mumbai.

While the Boeing 737 with 162 passengers on board was still over the Arabian Sea, the cabin crew requested on the public announcement system for a doctor to come forward. But since there was none a female nurse travelling to Kerala,

named Wilson, volunteered to help deliver the child along with the airline staff.

After the plane landed in Mumbai, both the mother and the baby were rushed to a hospital and were said to be doing well, according to the airline.

"Being the first baby to be born in-flight for the airline, Jet Airways is pleased?to offer the newly-born a free lifetime pass?for all his travel on Jet Airways," the airline said in a statement.

The plane later resumed its onward journey to Kochi and reached its destination at 12.45 pm after a delay of 90 minutes.
New Delhi: A five-member anti-profiteering authority will be set up to decide on levying penalty if businesses do not pass on the benefit of price reduction to

consumers under the goods and services tax regime.

The authority, to be headed by a retired secretary-level officer, can take suo motu action, besides acting on complaints of profiteering. The GST Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and comprising state finance ministers as members, today approved the anti-profiteering rules.

As per the norms, the authority will have a sunset date of two years and will decide on penalty to be levied. It would ask the businesses to refund the price reduction on a proportionate basis to consumers.

Where the consumer cannot be identified, the amount would be credited to the consumer welfare fund, an official said. A search-cum-selection committee will be set up for finalising the members of the anti-profiteering authority.

Officials said it is likely to take about two months to finalise the members.

Besides the chairman, the four other members of the authority will be joint secretary-level officers who have been commissioners in central excise and service tax either at the Centre or states.

As per the structure, the complaints of profiteering would first come to the Standing Committee comprising tax officials from states and the Centre. It would forward the complaint to the Directorate of Safeguards (DGS) for investigation, which is likely to take about 2-3 months to complete the inquiry.

On completion of investigation, the report would be submitted to the anti-profiteering authority which would decide on the penalty. The Section 171 of the Central GST Act provides that any reduction in rate of tax on any supply of goods or services or the benefit of input tax credit will be passed on to the

recipient by way of commensurate reduction in prices.
New Delhi: The Union Cabinet is expected to approve setting up of a Rs 2,000-crore credit guarantee fund by July-end with a view to provide funding facilities to startups, a top official said today.

Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) Secretary Ramesh Abhishek said the fund would be used to lend to startups without any collateral. He said that last week, the proposal was approved by the Finance Ministry. Under this, Rs 2000 crore will be disbursed over a period of three years.

"One startup will get a maximum of Rs 5 crore. We are hoping to get the Cabinet approval on this by end of July to operationalise this fund," he said here during the launch of startup India hub portal.

He said that about 7,500 startups will benefited from this corpus and it will generate an additional funding of Rs 15,000 crore. Since the launch of startup India action plan in January 2016, Abhishek said Rs 960 crore of funds were disbursed to different startups.

The DIPP has put 1,000 facilitators for intellectual property (IPR) related issues besides setting of 547 tinkering labs under Atal Innovation Mission.

"358 startups were facilitated for IPR, 1333 were recognised as startups, 39 startups were given income tax benefits and we are reviewing all other cases regard this. "These numbers are going to multiply this year as we have changed the definition of startups," he said adding under the 'Fund of Funds' scheme, over Rs 1,100 crore were disbursed last fiscal.

This year, the DIPP has sought Rs 1,600 crore more from the finance ministry. Talking about the startup India hub portal, he said this platform will help all the budding entrepreneurs who want to seek information related with government's scheme, about mentors, funders and accelerators.
Mumbai: Following closely on the heels of linking bank accounts and PAN with Aadhaar, the government is now planning to mandate the linking of Aadhaar with all land records under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Program (DILRMP).

According to a report in India Today, this is a step in the direction of exposing benami properties and making land records transparent.

The quoting of the 12-digit unique identification number will make it easier for authorities to identify owners. It will easily reveal if the owner is a benami owner or not. It will also ensure easier access to bank loan provisions and crop insurance for farmers.

The central government has asked all state governments and Union Territories to digitise "land records, mutation records, sale and purchase records from year 1950- of any immovable property (see section 2 of the Income Tax Act 1961 and subsequently amended) including land (agricultural and non agricultural), houses (independent or Society) etc by 14 August 2017".

The central government has further written to them saying that it is considering linking Aadhaar with the ownership of the above mentioned properties. The properties which are not linked shall be considered for appropriate action under the Benami Transaction (Prohibition) Amended Act, 2016," it wrote.

The letter dated June 15, was addressed to Chief Secretaries of states and UTs, Additional Chief Secretaries of state and UTs, Lt Governor Delhi, NITI Aayog. A copy of it was also sent to the Prime Minister's Office for official record.

Digitisation of land records has already been completed in states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra. The linking of land records with Aadhaar will soon follow in these states.

Land records will be linked to Aadhaar numbers of the Pattadars in Andhra Pradesh.
Under the Indradhanush plan for bank recapitalisation, government is infusing Rs 70,000 crore in PSU banks beginning 2015.

New Delhi: Moody's Investors Service today said the initiation of insolvency proceedings on 12 large loan defaulters is credit positive for Indian banks as it will improve their overall asset quality.

The Reserve Bank last week said it has identified 12 large loan defaulters who account for 25 per cent of the total NPAs or bad loans in the banking sector and will be referred to the banks concerned for filing insolvency proceedings. These cases will be accorded priority by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

"This is credit positive for India's banks because any meaningful resolution under this plan can help improve their overall asset quality. Additionally, it also will set a precedent for resolving non-performing loans from smaller borrowers," Moody's said in a report.

The directive will negatively affect banks' profitability over the next year if they need to take large write-downs relative to their existing loan-loss reserves for those assets, it said.

"This also will accentuate the capital needs of weaker public sector banks, which may require a large capital infusion from the Indian government," it said.

Moody's estimated that state-owned banks will need up to Rs 95,000 crore of equity capital through 2019. The capital requirement is much higher than Rs 20,000 crore budgeted by the government towards capital infusion until March 2019.

Under the Indradhanush plan for bank recapitalisation, government is infusing Rs 70,000 crore in PSU banks beginning 2015. RBI has also asked banks to also review other NPAs and finalise a resolution plan over the next six months.

"Given the strict timelines to resolve a case under the IBC within a maximum period of 270 days, after which a company will be automatically liquidated, we expect that this directive will significantly expedite the resolution process and will help in loan recoveries," Moody's said.

The US-based credit rating agency estimates that some of these 12 accounts relate to borrowers in the steel, power and other infrastructure sectors such as engineering, procurement and construction contractors.

"Indian banks' asset quality has significantly deteriorated over the years, although the pace of deterioration has somewhat moderated in recent quarters," Moody's said.
Mumbai: Farhan Akhtar, beside being a versatile artist, is also known to be a champion of feminism and equality. On the occasion of Fathers Day, the actor-director released a heartwarming short film, bringing acclaimed actress Vidya Balans father, Balan, to the spotlight.

The father-daughter duo explored their life and the difficulties theyd faced, eventually overcoming all the hurdles with much aplomb.

And Bollywood seems to be mighty impressed by the initiative, dropping generous praises on the video.

T 2459 -A short film on Vidya Balan and her Father, made by Farhan Akhtar .. a moving pertinent strong statement ..https://t.co/3L9jB9cBpy pic.twitter.com/hMkUQ5G2Yq  Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) June 18, 2017

A must watch this Father's Day! So moved, inspired, empowered & filled with love after watching this. He is just like my dad  https://t.co/9puBYcjjqb  Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) June 18, 2017

Beautiful and motivating film on Vidya Balan and her father made by the @MardOfficial initiative https://t.co/zBhjtAyINd @FarOutAkhtar  Karan Johar (@karanjohar) June 18, 2017

Love this message that PR Uncle conveys about being a father to two dynamic daughters. @vidya_balan @MardOfficial https://t.co/Mt4ixCCsQE  Dia Mirza (@deespeak) June 18, 2017

Balan, 71, who started off as a typist, spoke of his struggles and how his daughter had come to his rescue. The proud father also credited his daughter for chasing her dreams and coming out victorious in a predominantly male-dominated industry.

"I'm sure he had the fears because of the big, bad world of cinema but he never once discouraged me. He always said, whatever you do, do to the best of your abilities. The best thing about my parents is that they never had preconceived notions about anything, Vidya revealed, speaking about her family.

Watch the video here:
New York: Veteran actor Anupam Kher said he was proud to be the chosen for illuminating the United Nations headquarters, ahead of International Day of Yoga.

The 62-year-old actor took to Twitter to announce the news and expressed gratitude to India's ambassador to US, Syed Akbaruddin, for the privilege.

"Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir. @UN," wrote Kher, alongside a 23- second-long video of the ceremony.

The "M S Dhoni: The Untold Story" actor, who is in the US for the premiere of his film "The Big Sick", also shared a series of pictures from the event

On the work front, Kher's next release is "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" and will be seen as former Indian PM Dr Manmohan Singh in the film "The Accidental Prime Minister" based on the 2014 book penned by Sanjaya Baru.
Mumbai: There are movies that are made with the intent to entertain, to make you laugh, cry, whistle and more. And then there are movies like Lipstick Under my Burkha that pepper all of these with a dash of rebellion. Taking on the 'crazies' who think they're the guardians of women.

Set in the crowded lanes of small town India, 'Lipstick Under My Burkha' chronicles the secret lives of four feisty women chasing a little piece of freedom. Though stifled and trapped in their worlds, these four women claim their desires through small acts of courage and stealthy rebellion.

Movies like Lipstick Under My Burkha are rare phenomenon, so rare that they deserve more than the accolades bestowed upon them, they deserve to be shown to the world with no discrimination against any community, gender, age or social standing.

To all the women who're constantly being told what to do, where to go, how to be - here's an answer. It takes balls to be a woman. NOT!

Women cannot be defined by male paradigms.

And to all the men who are man enough to let women be, Lipstick celebrates that very spirit. After a 6 month battle with the censor board, after sweeping 10 awards internationally, 'Lipstick Under My Burkha' finally hits theatres on 21st July!

The film 'they' didn't want you to watch. 'They' called it - 'audio pornography', 'sexually contagious' and deemed it 'too lady oriented'.

While the chuckles from this haven't died down, neither will our voices.

From the studio that presented LSD, The Dirty Picture and Udta Punjab, Ekta Kapoor now presents LUMB.

Produced by Prakash Jha, directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, Lipstick Under My Burkha will release on July 21, 2017
Mumbai: Shah Rukh Khans character Harry from 'Jab Harry Met Sejal' was introduced in the mini trail 1 released on Sunday.

Set in a hotel room, Harry (Shah Rukh Khan) reveals to Sejal (Anushka Sharma) that he has looked at women with lustful eyes all his life and that makes him a man of cheap, questionable character.

Petrified to learn about his vulgarity, Anushka tries to appease herself, saying he was only trying to scare her.

However, in the mini trail 2 released on this Monday morning reveals Sejals powerful character, along with her being calm, confident and a carefree girl.

The Gujarati LLB chhori very well knows how to get hold off situations, since she handles legal family matters and issues an indemnity bond to Harry.

What is an indemnity bond, you ask?

Well, Sejal has an answer to it. She boldly hands over the indemnity bond to Harry saying, I have clearly stated that if we ever have a sexual interaction, amounting or not amounting to full intercourse, you are absolved of all legal charges.

Rather, the Indemnity Bond has definitely come as a huge sigh of relief to Harry!

Take a look at Shah Rukh's tweet:

Ab mujhe darne ki zaroorat nahi! Ye Indemnity Bond hai na! @AnushkaSharma #JHMSMiniTrail2 https://t.co/riXKGtw8KY  Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) June 19, 2017

Watch their chemistry here:
Ivan Thanthiran, starring Gautham Karthik and Shraddha Srinath in the lead roles, is slated to release on June 30. The film, which also stars RJ Balaji in a crucial supporting role, had its audio launch last week. The makers also released a two-minute sneak-peek video from the film featuring RJ Balaji delivering a lengthy dialogue about the plight of engineering students which has gone viral. With a good buzz surrounding the film, director R Kannan seems upbeat talking to DC.

Normally, films about college life revolve around romance and friendship. But Ivan... talks about the story behind every engineering students life. It is entertaining and not preachy either.

Gautham Karthik plays the role of a reverse engineer  one who makes duplicate electronics just like the original. Talking about how he arrived at the concept, Kannan explains, Take a stroll down Ritchie Street in Chennai and you will find hundreds of reverse engineers. I wondered why nobody made a film on them, given how interesting their profession is. It took two years and several rough drafts to finalise the script. Gautham, Shraddha and Balaji fit the roles very well.

Talking about the dialogue that has gone viral, Kannan says, It is the ultimate truth about most engineering students these days, and it was a fun dialogue which Balaji attempted to do in one take and he did a splendid job.

Kannan assures that the audience will not be disappointed with the film  It is just two-hours long and has a gripping screenplay. While the film is a reflection of the society, it doesnt try to send out a message or search for a solution, which makes it a fun watch.
Anushka Shetty might be a yoga instructor and a fitness freak, but the recent streak of demanding roles and erratic work schedules have affected her overall fitness levels. Anushkas last three films  Baahubali, Size Zero and Bhagamati (Telugu)  required a drastic physical transformation one after the other.

Although the actress managed to attain what was required of her, she isnt really pleased. She believes that she will be able to go back to her original fitness level only by practicing yoga, which is why she is contemplating going on a yoga holiday.

A source from the industry said that Anushka is almost done shooting for Bhagamati and has not signed any projects after that. She wants to get back into shape first, the source added. After she returns, it is believed that she will start shooting for Gautham Menons next.
Neha Rathnakaran, first runner up at the Miss Malabar pageant, 2013 ended up starting her acting career in the Tamil film industry. Lately she was seen in her first Malayalammovie Chicken Kokachi. On her entry into films, she says, "I applied randomly for the Miss Malabar competition after my cousin advised me. Turned out I won the 1st runner up. I stayed away from modelling after that till I finished my high school."

Kannur-based Neha talks about her first movie experience for a Tamil film, Ivanuku Thannila Gandam alongside Deepak Dinkar. I was scared. I don't have a background in acting, I did not know how the industry works. I first committed to a Tamil movie so that I could learn something. Lot of good has happened due to it. My camera fears got taken care of after that. Her second Tamil outing was Uchathula Shiva which also starred Tamil actor Karan. Neha is currently working on her seventh project.

Two more Tamil movies are getting ready for release and a Telugu film as well. I am currently working for a Tamil movie in which I play a very strong and bold character who turns revengeful after marriage. The name of the movie is yet to be fixed,she lapses into Tamil unexpectedly and laughs. I am sorry about the Tamil, she says. In between all this she made her first Malayalam debut through Chicken Kokachi.

Director Anuranjan's wife is my sister's senior and that got me Chicken Kokachi. I looked the script of the movie which is another reason why I committed to do it. Neha plays a simple girl next door in this movie. I've always wished to play simple characters and I enjoyed playing this one, the character called Nitha. I never thought I will get into acting, but once I started getting offers I was like, why not try it.Moreover I had immense support from my family,she winds up.
Rana Daggubati's 'Baahubali: The Conclusion' is still running in the theatres after 50 days of its release.

Mumbai: Actor Rana Daggubati is all set to turn chat show host for a programme which would invite his industry friends for a candid conversation.

Titled 'No 1 Yaari', the show in Telugu aims to indulge in personal life conversations, camaraderie and inside stories of Tollywood's most prominent stars.

"Thank you for all the love on No 1 Yaari...Truly overwhelming, hope to do my best and keep you guys entertained," Rana said in a statement.

This will be the first time that the 'Baahubali' star will be seen hosting a chat show.

The show will be aired on Gemini TV and Viu, a video- on-demand service, from June 26.
Washington: A recent study has found a connection between common household chemicals and birth defects. Known as quaternary ammonium compounds or "quats," the chemicals are often used as disinfectants and preservatives in household and personal products such as cleaners, laundry detergent, fabric softener, shampoo and conditioner, and eye drops.

The research demonstrated a link between quats and neural tube birth defects in both mice and rats. "These chemicals are regularly used in the home, hospital, public spaces, and swimming pools," said Terry Hrubec, associate professor of anatomy at the VCOM-Virginia campus and research assistant professor in the veterinary college's Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology. "Most people are exposed on a regular basis."

Hrubec investigated the effect of two commonly used quats: alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride and didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride. These are often listed on ingredient lists as ADBAC and DDAC, respectively, and are valued for their antimicrobial and antistatic properties, as well as their ability to lower surface tension.

Hrubec found that exposure to these chemicals resulted in neural tube birth defects -- the same birth defect as spina bifida and anencephaly in humans. "Birth defects were seen when both males and females were exposed, as well as when only one parent was exposed," said Hrubec, who is first author on the study and holds both a doctor of veterinary medicine degree and Ph.D. from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. "The fact that birth defects could be seen when only the father was exposed means that we need to expand our scope of prenatal care to include the father."

Hrubec found that mice and rats did not even need to be dosed with the chemicals to see the effect. Her research shows that simply using quat-based cleaners in the same room as the mice was enough to cause birth defects. "We also observed increased birth defects in rodents for two generations after stopping exposure," Hrubec added.

An earlier study in Hrubec's laboratory found that these chemicals led to reproductive declines in mice. Follow-up research found that quats were decreasing sperm counts in males and ovulation in females. The research raises the possibility of quats contributing to human infertility, which has been on the rise in recent decades.

"We are asked all of the time, 'You see your results in mice. How do you know that it's toxic in humans?'" Hrubec said. "Our research on mice and rats shows that these chemicals affect the embryonic development of these animals. Since rodent research is the gold standard in the biomedical sciences, this raises a big red flag that these chemicals may be toxic to humans as well."

Quaternary ammonium compounds were introduced in the 1950s and 1960s before the standardization of toxicity studies. Chemical manufacturers conducted some toxicity studies on the compounds during this period, but they were never published. Today, the chemicals are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Hrubec noted that an epidemiological study could determine whether people who have a high rate of exposure, such as healthcare workers or restaurant servers, have a more difficult time becoming pregnant or have a greater likelihood of having children with neural tube birth defects, but no such study has been conducted to date. The findings have been published in journal Birth Defects Research.
Study suggests that the 'broken heart syndrome' can actually cause physical damage to the heart muscles (Photo: Pixabay)

Did you suffer from heartbreak? Well, a new study says that suffering heartbreak can cause as much long-term damage to health as cardiac arrest.

About 3,000 Britons a year suffer from the broken heart syndrome or the takotsubo syndrome, which, it turns out mostly, affects women.

According to a research, the heart muscle can get damaged due to the sudden rush of hormones that are caused by emotionally stressful events such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, betrayal or romantic rejection. In extreme cases, it can also lead to the death of an individual, which strangely, can also be brought on by positive events such as a lottery win.

Until now, it was thought that the heart can heal but as it turns out the heartbreak is very real indeed. This has been further substantiated by the research published in the Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography who says that the muscle actually suffers damage.

This could explain why sufferers tend to have a similar life expectancy to those who have suffered a heart attack.

It turns our that the syndrome, which is called takotsubo was named after the Japanese word which means octopus pot, because the hearts lower chamber has a similar shape to that of a fishing pot.

A team from the Aberdeen University, funded by the British Heart Foundation followed the takotsubo patients for a period of a few months, finding out results through ultrasound and cardiac MRI scans.

They showed that the condition permanently affected the hearts pumping motion, delaying the twisting motion made by the heart as it beats. They found that the hearts squeezing motion was also reduced while parts of the muscle suffered scarring that then affected the elasticity of the heart and stopped it contracting properly.

The results showed the condition permanently affected the hearts pumping motion, delaying the twisting or wringing motion made by the heart as it beats.

The hearts squeezing motion was also reduced, while parts of the muscle suffered scarring that then affected the elasticity of the heart and stopped it contracting properly.

Professor Metin Avkiran, of the British Heart Foundation, said: This study has shown that in some patients who develop takotsubo syndrome various aspects of heart function remain abnormal for up to four months afterwards.

Worryingly, these patients hearts appear to show a form of scarring, indicating that full recovery may take much longer, or indeed may not occur, with current care.

This highlights the need to urgently find new and more effective treatments for this devastating condition.
London: Britain's longest-married couple, who is celebrating 80 years of wedded bliss and still holds hands every day, is giving all the feels and serious relationship goals.

102-year-old Ken Harris tied the knot with his beloved 99-year-old wife Margaret two years before World War II began and has carried their wedding day picture in his wallet ever since, the Mirror reported. The couple, who are from Llanhilleth, South Wales and have two children, lived deeply intertwined lives until Harris was deployed to Burma in the Second World War.

The love birds, who now live in the same care home, almost missed their 80th wedding anniversary after Ken was hospitalised with a broken hip, but was reunited for the landmark occasion.

Their son Alan, 77, and his wife Pat 75, recently moved to Wales to help look after Harris and Margaret, who suffers from dementia. Pat said: "Ken went to war and Margaret stayed home working as a doctor's secretary but he always had her photo in his wallet."

"They hold hands every day now because of the memory of being separated in the war. When Ken went into hospital he didn't think he would ever see her again," she added. "It is so fortunate that a room became available at Margaret's care home. It has been a real battle trying to keep them together. Ken gave his life for his country and he deserves to be able to be with his wife," Pat continued. "They are a very loving couple and we are so proud to have celebrated their 80th anniversary with them."
After denying a bed initially, the hospital admitted her and she has been kept under constant observation due to her critical state. (Photo: Twitter/ ANI)

Patna: A Class 10 girl was allegedly gangraped by six people and thrown from a moving train before it reached Bihar's Kiul junction in the wee hours of Friday.

The girl, hailing from Lakhochak village in the Lakhisarai district, had stepped to pee when she was reportedly abducted by six men. The accused then took to her to the Vanshipur Railway station and boarded a local train. They threw her out of the train as Kiul Junction, after which she was taken to a medical centre nearby by the locals.

The girls parents reached by afternoon after which, due to her deteriorating condition, she was transferred to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).

After denying a bed initially, the hospital admitted her and she has been kept under constant observation due to her critical state.

While police investigation is in process, the girls brother claimed that one person has been arrested.

Bihar: I recognize two people & one person has been arrested- Brother of victim who was allegedly raped and thrown off a train in Lakhisarai pic.twitter.com/iXJzinFhDB  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

On the other hand, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has assured the girl of bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Hyderabad: If caught gambling online, you will now have to pay a penalty of Rs 5,000 and undergo one years imprisonment. The penalty and imprisonment will be doubled for the second offence.

These are some of the stringent provisions of the Ordinance that was passed by the Telangana state Cabinet on Saturday to amend the Gaming Act.

The Ordinance has been referred to Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan for approval, which is expected in a day or two. The Ordinance also has tougher provisions to check offline betting and matka.

Deputy Chief Minister Kadiam Srihari, who briefed the media on the Cabinet meeting on Saturday, said that after Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao ordered a crackdown on gambling soon after the formation of Telangana state all the gambling clubs across the state have vanished.

But it came to the notice of the government that people are shifting to online gambling, he said.

Online gamblers under lens

If caught gambling online, you will now have to pay a penalty of Rs 5,000 and undergo one years imprisonment. The penalty and imprisonment will be doubled for the second offence. Deputy CM Kadiam Srihari said the Ordinance has been passed to avoid delays in imposing the ban. Official sources said the TS government was inspired by the Singapore legislation banning online gambling. The Andhra Pradesh Gaming Act was enacted in 1974, and was adopted by TS in 2014.

Cyber police will keep watch on online gambling sites and track people who log on. The services of Internet service providers will also be used to track gamblers. The government will also block online bank accounts, credit/debit card payments linked to gambling services. The state will seek the Union IT ministrys help to block gambling sites.
So far, the police have arrested 12, but the actual number of illegal immigrants in North Karnataka region is said to be much higher. (Representational Image)

Belagavi: With the state government taking serious action and rounding up alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in Belagavi region, a team of higher officials from the Bangladesh Embassy visited the city to gather information about the alleged illegal immigrants arrested.

So far, the police have arrested 12, but the actual number of illegal immigrants in North Karnataka region is said to be much higher. Most of them have managed to get Aadhaar cards, passports and other documents by producing fake proof with the help of agents.

A team of senior police officers along with 12 members of the Bangladesh Embassy, headed by Mushraf Hussain and Ravi Verma, met each of the arrested at the Hindalga Central Prison and gathered information about their actual identities and nationality and the way they managed to gain entry into the country.

According to police records, all the arrested were brought to Belagavi by agents, who later helped them get small jobs, besides all other government identity cards and documents.

The Embassy officials were here to ascertain the nationality of all the arrested and are trying to talk to each of the arrested individually, police sources said.

The officials also visited the Vijayapura jail where some more such illegal immigrants are jailed. Most of the arrested were working in slaughterhouses located at different parts of Belagavi city for the past some months.

Belagavi Police Commissioner T.G. Krishna Bhatt had recently written to the Union External Affairs Ministry through the state Home Department about the rising number of alleged illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in the region.

Recently, the Pune police arrested a resident of Belagavi at the Pune airport and seized his fake passport. The arrested, Mohammad Bepari (26), was about to board a flight to Dubai when he was trapped. Bepari, revealed during the interrogation that he was an illegal immigrant and he also produced an identity card he got in Bangladesh. Based on his information, the police rounded up many more illegal immigrants in Belagavi. The arrested got their names changed after migrating to India and had their own network.
Hyderabad: A Class IX student was sexually assaulted by her teacher in Nagarkurnool district on Sunday. It came to light on Monday, after the girls parents lodged a complaint with the police.

According to police, the girl, who hails from Chinnakottapalli, is studying in Class IX in the Government High School in Peddakottapalli mandal in the district.

The suspect Narsimha was doing in-house service as a part of his BEd II year course requirements. The girl was helping him write his records.

Sunday being a holiday, the girl went alone to the school to hand over the records which she had completed for him.

Taking advantage of the opportunity and the fact that she was alone, he confined her to a room and sexually assaulted her.

The girl escaped and rushed home and told her parents. Based on a complaint from her mother, Peddakottapalli Police registered a case under charges of Rape and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the girl was sent for a medical examination. Teams have been formed to nab the teacher who is absconding.
Belagavi: Conditional bail has been granted to Sanathan Sanstha member Sameer Gaikwad, the main accused in the killing of rationalist Govind Pansare, by the Kolhapur District Sessions Court. However, the state police are expected to take Gaikwad into their custody soon in connection with the murder of another rationalist from Dharwad, M.M. Kalburgi. After his bail applications were rejected thrice by various courts of Maharashtra in connection with Pansare's murder, Gaikwad has been able to get bail after applying for it for the fourth time.

Still clueless about the killers of Mr Kalburgi, the state police are expected to interrogate Gaikwad as the modus operandi of the killers of Pansare and Kalburgi was similar. While Pansare was shot dead by a bike-borne unidentified man in Pune from a pointblank range when Pansare was on a morning walk, Mr Kalburgis killers, who had come on a motorbike, had shot him dead at his home early in the morning.

MM Kalburgi and Govind Pansare

The court has ordered Gaikwad not to leave Maharashtra and banned his entry into Kolhapur district. On seizing his passport, the court ordered him to be present before investigating officials in Maharashtra every Sunday. The investigating officers strongly suspect that Gaikwad may be one of the masked, bike-borne who targeted Pasare on February 16, 2015. Pansare, who was rushed to a hospital after he was shot, had succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.

After their failure to get any specific clues about the killers, the Maharashtra police were able to arrest Gaikwad in Sangli on September 15, 2015 based on some information about him. Subsequently, the Maharashtra SIT submitted a 372-page chargesheet to the court against Gaikwad in connection with Pansare's killing. Later, Gaikwad submitted bail applications, twice to Maharashtra District Sessions Court and once to Maharashtra High Court, but his appeals were rejected. However, he managed to get bail based on his fourth application submitted for the fourth time.
BENGALURU: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday said no communication has come through from the US administration headed by President Donald Trump about checkmating firms like Lockheed Martin which plan to move to production line to India to roll out the latest version of F-16 fighter jets.

The defence minister, however, stated that any original equipment manufacturer (OEM) must get approval of respective government before setting up such facilities in the country. If someone wants to shift their plant to India, or set up a new one, it is not an issue. But if these original equipment makers are proposing something (local production), they will have to get their government's approval.

That is my requirement, Mr Parrikar told the media after inaugurating Aero India 2017 here, adding that the main condition for the contract to supply hundreds of fighter planes to the Indian Air Force (IAF) is that it has to be made in India, in collaboration with a strategic local partner.

Lockheed's plan is to build the F-16 to equip the Indian Air Force and not ship them from the United States. The other firm in competition to supply single-engine fighter jets, SAAB of Sweden, demonstrated its Gripen-E, while Lockheed displayed F-16 V at the air show.

Global leaders must tie up with local players, says Satheesh Reddy

Global leaders should tie up with local players to develop components to supply them to aerospace, civil and defence sectors, said Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, Scientific Advisor to Defence Minister, here on Monday.

At the Global CEOs conclave on aerospace and defence manufacturing opportunities in Andhra Pradesh under the Make in India initiative, he said that there has been a massive demand for cutting-edge technologies, like optical sensors, bio sensors, nano sensors, hybrid sensors and propellants among others. India with its smooth Foreign Direct Investment policy is focusing on Indian design development, he said.

The country is looking at investments in advanced manufacturing and processing technology. If an investor has the design capability, but lacks infrastructure, the hole can be filled with local players. Investors should desist from setting up manufacturing units in areas where local players already exist, he requested. To promote Make in India, the government is planning a tech development fund and will extend incentives to investors, he said.

Mr J. Krishna Kishore, ex-officio secretary, Andhra Pradesh government, said that AP has ample opportunities to invest. India is the lowest taxed and FDI liberal country. Investors can not only invest, but also send their profits back to their countries, he said.

Andhra Pradesh has six airports, and half-a-dozen more will be added to make the state investor friendly, he said, and pointed out that according to a survey, Andhra Pradesh tops the list of states in ease of doing business because of its liberal policies.

We have an investment-tracker facility and Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu himself monitors the movement of files and there is no scope for any delay, he said. AP does not have the typical problems of power, manpower, road network and connectivity. It has strong and stable political policies, said Civil Aviation Minister P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju.
New Delhi: The BJPs core group, which will be meet on June 19, is expected to take a final decision on the NDAs presidential candidate. The name of the candidate is likely to be announced a day after. While the names of Jharkhand governor Draupadi Murmu, Union minister Thawar Chand Ghelot continue to make the rounds, a new name has cropped up in the saffron camp.

The name that is being whispered in saffron corridor is that of Dr Narender Jadhav, a Rajya Sabha member and an economist, educationist, public policy expert, professor and writer in English, Marathi and Hindi. Sources said that the BJP high command is keen on him.

Mr Jadhav, who headed economic research at the RBI during the tenure of UPA-I, was nominated to the Rajya Sabha after the BJP-led NDA came to power in 2014.

While the name of external affairs minister, Ms Sushma Swaraj was also doing rounds, on Saturday she dismissed them as rumors. These are rumors, she told reporters when asked about her candidature.
Radio anchor and producer Antonia Gonzales has featured countless indigenous people on her program, National Native News, and the issues she has covered include the recent Native-led protest over the Dakota Access Pipeline. Gonzales spent 10 days reporting from Bismarck and the nearby Standing Rock Indian Reservation.

She said she arrived at possibly the worst time possible: During a December blizzard where blinding snow raged across the prairie and temperatures fell far below zero.

She likened the challenges of reporting on the protest on radio to serving as a foreign correspondent. Gonzales said she hopes reporting on the protest and other threats against Native culture and sacred lands will continue, and she hopes relationships in North Dakota can continue to be fostered between Native and non-Native people and organizations.

The undertold story is the relationship building that has to occur in North Dakota, said Gonzales during a visit last week to Rapid City, S.D.

Gonzales, 38, a member of the Navajo Nation is a prominent member of the small but committed contingent of Native American journalists in the United State and Canada. The National Native News program features a five-minute daily segment of radio stories told mainly by freelance journalists from across the world.

While proud of her Indian heritage and culture, Gonzales told the audience of about 75 people that she considers herself a journalist first when on the job and approaches each news event or story with the same ethical, objective mindset required of any journalist, Native or otherwise.

And yet, Gonzales said she and other Native journalists do bring a unique perspective and understanding that allows a deeper look into both the triumphs and tragedies that become news on reservations and within indigenous populations.

"I want to give indigenous people a voice and tell stories about what's really going on, the challenges being overcome," said Gonzales, a married mother of two boys who lives in Albuquerque, N.M. "I see a need for Native journalists to tell their stories, at all levels, not just in Native communities."

Gonzales offered one example of how Native journalists, or those non-Native journalists who string for her network, saw a different side to a major news event. After the federal Environmental Protection Agency mistakenly released 3 million gallons of orange wastewater from the Gold King Mine into the Animas River in Colorado in August 2015, most of the mainstream media coverage focused on the ecological damage to the river and EPA's culpability, Gonzales said.

But Gonzales took a different angle, instead focusing on how the fouled water had hampered the ability of Navajo Nation residents to provide clean water for their families and corn crops.

"People had no alternative to using that water," she said, noting that the suffering of those Native people was missed by most of the media. "I saw how much it hurt people because corn is so important to the Navajo culture."

Gonzales said the mainstream media has a long way to go to understand Native culture and Native peoples in order to develop solid source relationships and to tell stories that go beyond statistics and impressions that can at times seem dire.

"We know our people, we know our communities and we have a different perspective," she said.

Gonzales has recently taken up the cause of "solution journalism," in which the reporting tends to seek out ways in which people found success tackling systemic issues, and then offers that way forward as a model for other individuals and communities.

She said she often finds that Native youth are where positive change and forward-looking ideas germinate, which gives her hope for a bright future for indigenous people. As one who was mentored in her craft and now takes on a mentoring role herself with students, Gonzales said she is hopeful that Native young people will go to school, learn a profession or craft, then return to their reservations or hometowns to perpetuate the lessons they learned and the skills they have mastered.

She said journalists should not just cover Native issues when there is controversy or crisis, but rather should focus on the many positive things taking place in indigenous communities.

In order to foster future positive relationships between Native and non-Native populations and communities, Gonzales urged both journalists and non-journalists alike to remain curious and kind, and respectfully ask their neighbors about their culture, their language, their identity, their challenges and their hopes and dreams.

"Be a human, go into a community," Gonzales urged. "These are your neighbors, so visit them and learn about them."

Staff from the Rapid City Journal contributed to this report.
The court on Friday had convicted six persons including Mustafa Dossa, one of the masterminds of the conspiracy, and the extradited gangster Abu Salem, 24 years after the serial blasts killed 257 people in Mumbai. (Photo: PTI/File)

Mumbai: The prosecution on Monday told an anti-terror court here that it would seek the maximum punishment under the law for the six persons convicted last week in the 1993 serial blasts case.

"We will seek maximum punishment under the law for each of the convicts," special CBI counsel Deepak Salvi told Special Judge G A Sanap, heading the court set up under the erstwhile anti-terror law, the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act.

The statement came after the defence lawyer Sudeep Passbola said the prosecution should make arguments on the quantum of sentence first, as the defence needs to know the aggravating circumstances against the convicts which the prosecution may put forth.

Salvi, however, said the prosecution will start arguments only after the accused put forth mitigating circumstances in their favour. He would ask for the maximum punishment, he added.

The court said it would decide later as to who should open the arguments. Meanwhile, Feroz Khan, one of the convicts, today filed four applications.

Among other things, advocate Wahab Khan, his lawyer, sought adjournment for two weeks to prepare arguments, but the judge rejected this demand.

Advocate Khan also sought to call some witnesses to point out mitigating circumstances in Feroz's favour. He wanted to call a couple of inmates of Taloja jail and also examine Feroz himself, he said.

The judge allowed the plea and asked advocate Khan to start examination of his witnesses tomorrow. Feroz also moved an application under the Probation of Offenders Act, under which a first-time convict can get the sentence suspended and undergo `probation.'

The judge called for a report from the probation officer to decide the plea. The court on Friday had convicted six persons including Mustafa Dossa, one of the masterminds of the conspiracy, and the extradited gangster Abu Salem, 24 years after the serial blasts killed 257 people in Mumbai, the country's financial capital.

In the first phase of the trial which concluded in 2007, the court had convicted 100 accused. The trial of Salem, Dossa, Karimullah Khan, Feroz Khan, Riyaz Siddiqui, Tahir Merchant and Abdul Quayyum was separated because they were arrested later.

While Quayyum was acquitted for lack of evidence, Siddiqui was convicted only under TADA for helping Salem and others with transportation of arms.

The other five were convicted for being party to the criminal conspiracy along with other offences under the IPC, TADA, Explosives Act, etc. The court absolved all seven of the charge of `waging the war against the state.'
Nagpur: Vishwa Hindu Parishad international general secretary Surendra Jain on Sunday alleged that 'gau-rakshaks', who should be felicitated for trying to stop cow slaughter. are being implicated in false cases by police.

"Gau-rakshaks (cow protectors) are doing the work that the police department needs to do. They are coming out on roads to stop cow slaughter. They should be felicitated for the same," Jain told reporters in Nagpur on Sunday.

"Unfortunately, the police books gau-rakshaks and frames wrong charges against them to hide their failures," he said.

Jain also slammed the Congress for supporting cow slaughter under Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

"Mahatma Gandhi was opposed to cow slaughter but Congress under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi is organising beef parties across the state," he said.

On construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Jain said, "We believe that the central government in the coming two years will bring a law for constructing Ram Mandir in Ayodhya."

Jain pitched for a phase-wise implementation of M S Swaminathan committee report to solve the agrarian crisis in the country.
New Delhi: Condemning the Bihar's incident where a girl was gangraped and thrown out of a moving train, Union Minister of State for Rural Development Ram Kripal Yadav on Monday said that Bihar's condition was deteriorating with criminals moving around without any fear of the administration and law.

"The condition in Bihar is deteriorating and the law and order is nowhere to be found. The criminals are no more afraid of the government or the police. Every other day similar incidents are witnessed in the state and the culprits are fearless as if they know they will never get caught," Yadav said.

Expressing similar sentiment, former president of Delhi Mahila Congress and ex-Chairperson of Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) Barkha Shukla Singh said that such incidents have turned very common in Bihar and the state government should pay attention to them.

"The question is where were the other passengers and the police personnel. And this indicates our girls are not safe. The point is where the women should get safety," Shukla added.

She further said that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar must pay heed to the concern of women safety.

"These criminals are roaming freely with confidence. Most strict actions should be taken against the culprits," Shukla added.

A Class X girl was allegedly gangraped by a group of six people and thrown out from a moving train before it reached Bihar's Kiul junction.

The girl's condition was said to be critical and a team of doctors was continuously monitoring her health at the Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).

The girl hails from Lakhochak village in the Lakhisarai district.

She stepped out on Thursday night to answer nature's call and was captured by a group of six people.

The accused took her to the Vanshipur Railway station and boarded a local train.

As the Kiul Junction approached, they threw her from the moving train in the wee hours of Friday.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has assured the girl of bringing the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice.
New Delhi: After the Bharatiya Janata Party's parliamentary board named Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential nominee, the Congress on Monday said the decision was taken without consensus.

"During the meeting, senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had said that they will inform us before any announcement for a consensus, but they informed us after taking the decision. The Centre apprised the senior leaders, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh about the announcement over phone after taking the decision. So, there is no question of mutual consent. We didn't expect this from them," senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad told media in Delhi.

Asserting that the decision was one sided and taken without mutual consent, Azad further said the grand old party would not comment on the BJP's presidential nominee for now and would meet on June 22 to formally discuss the matter.

"The Congress party doesn't want to comment on the name of the candidate announced by the NDA government. We only want to say that we had expected that before they take the final decision on the candidate, they will come back to us and other political parties to build a consensus first. But that doesn't happen," he said.

He further said that the meetings which were called by the BJP to discuss the presidential nominee's name with the opposition parties were mere a formality and a PR exercise.

Kovind was announced as the presidential nominee of the BJP-led NDA party president Amit Shah.

Shah further said that the saffron party hoped that the Dalit nominee, Kovind, would remain unchallenged as the choice and would be unanimously selected as the next President of India.

Shah also informed that BJP leaders have talked to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, who told them that they would hold discussions over the presidential nominee and proceed further.

The parliamentary board of the BJP met in Delhi on Monday to discuss the upcoming presidential election.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Nitin Gadkari and M. Venkaiah Naidu and other senior party leaders deliberated on the names for the top constitutional post.

The election for the next President of India is to be held on July 17 as President Pranab Mukherjee will demit the office on July 24.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued the notification in this regard and the process of the nomination has started that will continue till June 28.
New Delhi: Concerned over the ongoing agitation in Darjeeling, Union home minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday appealed to the protesters and urged them to help resolve all outstanding issues through dialogue as the Centre was keen on talking to them as well as the state government to help normalise the situation.

The minister also had a detailed phone conversation with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who briefed him on the latest situation in the hill district and about the steps the state government had taken to improve the prevailing law and order situation.

Darjeeling has been witnessing agitation by local people for more than a week now demanding full statehood and protesting against the state governments decision to introduce Bengali in schools in the region.

The home minister, in a series of tweets, appealed to the agitating protesters that violence would not provide any solution and the issue could only be resolved through a dialogue among all stakeholders. While asking people to remain calm and peaceful, Mr Singh said it was crucial that all concerned parties should resolve their misunderstandings and differences through amicable dialogue in an amicable environment... I strongly feel every issue can be resolved through mutual dialogue.

The two had discussed the issue on Saturday as well. The agitation is being led by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), which also controls the semi-autonomous Gorkhaland Territorial Administration.

The Centre is planning to hold a tripartite meeting with the state government and the GJM next week, though the GJM has already said that it would not participate.

Darjeeling remained on the edge on Sunday as thousands of protesters assembled at the central Chowkbazar carrying the body of a GJM activist, who was killed during clashes with police, and raised slogans demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland.
The victims parents lodged a complaint suspecting a foul play behind her death. (Representational Image)

Hyderabad: A 35-year-old woman, working in the local branch of a US-headquartered bank, was found dead under mysterious circumstances at her residence in Hyderabad, police said.

According to police, G Padmaja was found hanging in a room in her house located in Gachibowli area of the city.

Police have registered a case against her husband Girish Narasimha, a system administrator working with an IT firm here, and his family members on charge of dowry death.

Padmaja was found hanging by Girish who took her to a hospital where doctors declared her brought dead, Gachibowli police station inspector S Chandrakant said.

However, Padmaja's parents lodged a complaint suspecting a foul play behind her death.

"They (Girish and Padmaja) got married in April 2016.

According to her parents and relatives, a month after their marriage, Girish and his family members started harassing Padmaja daily for dowry and for transferring properties in her name. They (Padmaja's kin) suspect that she might have been killed or might have taken the extreme step unable to bear their torture," the inspector said.

Padmaja was working as a back-end officer with the bank.

A case under section 304B (dowry death) of the IPC has been registered against Girish and three members of his family, the officer said, adding that Girish is being questioned.

Further probe is on.
Internet services were suspended to prevent rumours from spreading, after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhat and his accomplice Faizan Ahmad were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Saimoh village of south Kashmir's Pulwama district. (Photo: AP)

New Delhi: Mobile internet services were restored in the Kashmir valley on Monday evening, seven days after they were shut to avoid any untoward incident in the volatile region.

Internet services were suspended to prevent rumours from spreading, after Hizbul Mujahideen commander Sabzar Ahmad Bhat and his accomplice Faizan Ahmad were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Saimoh village of south Kashmir's Pulwama district.

A fresh surge of violence had hit the Valley after self-styled successor of dead Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander Burhan Wani was killed in an encounter with security forces in the Tral region of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to reports, Wani's successor, Sabzar Ahmad Bhat, was gunned down in an encounter in Saimu Village.

The Indian Government earlier on April 17 blocked access to 22 websites and applications, including Whatsapp, Facebook and Twitter, as well as 3G and 4G data services in the restive part of the northern state.

The ban came in the wake of reports that these social networking sites were being "misused by anti-national and anti-social elements to create law and order disturbances" in Kashmir.
The flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly hing) from Afghanistan, was flagged off in Kabul by President Ashraf Ghani. (Photo: ANI/Twitter)

New Delhi: The first cargo flight of the Afghanistan-India air freight corridor carrying Afghan goods to India landed in New Delhi on Monday night.

The cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi establishing first air freight corridor was received in Delhi on Monday by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Ganapati Raju, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar and the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India Shaida Abdali.

The arrival of the cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi marked the inauguration of the dedicated Air Freight Corridor between the two countries.

The Kabul to Delhi flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly 'hing') from Afghanistan, was flagged off in Kabul by President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet Ministers and India's Ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

A similar cargo flight from Delhi to Kabul had earlier carried 100 tonnes of cargo (mainly pharmaceuticals, water purifiers, medical equipments) on June 18, 2017 from Delhi to Kabul.

"The connectivity established through the Air Freight Corridor will provide Afghanistan, a landlocked country, greater access to markets in India, and will allow Afghan businessmen to leverage India's economic growth and trade networks for its benefit. It would enable Afghan farmers quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce," said Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary, (PAI-Pakistan, Afghanistan, India) in the Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi.

"This flight has added another chapter to the connectivity that has existed since times immemorial. We hope to extend air cargo flights to other cities between India and Afghanistan," said Gopal Bagley, spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs.

The decision to establish an Air Freight Corridor between Afghanistan and India was taken in the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ashraf Ghani in September 2016 during the President Ghani's visit to India.

"During his visit to India in September 2016, President Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businessmen to achieve a target of USD 10 billion in trade over the next five years," said Dr. Mittal.

"Keeping with President Ghani's vision, we have eased our visa regime for Afghan businesspersons. Also, we have increased the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year. Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals," Mittal further said.

"India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country," Mittal added.

Earlier, in January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan Trucks to enter the Indian Territory through Atari land check post for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan. India is also cooperating with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chabahar Port.

Later on in May 2016, a trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed in the presence of the leaders of the three countries in Tehran.

"These routes and corridors are aimed at providing sea, land and air access route for Afghanistan to regional and global markets in South Asia and beyond," Mittal added.

"Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, articles of apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibers, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee/tea/meat and spices," said Shaida Abdali, the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India.

"This is just the beginning. We are optimistic for further adding to the volume of trade between the two countries. We will be expanding to flights other provinces like Kandahar, Heart and Mazar-e-Sharif," Abdali added.

Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious and semi-precious stones, etc.

"India remains committed to assist Afghanistan in all possible ways in its political, security and economic transitions to ensure emergence of a sovereign, united, democratic, pluralistic, stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan," said Bagley.
New Delhi: The National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) selection of Bihar Governor and Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind as the presidential candidate is drawing mixed reaction from various political parties across the country.

Criticising the decision of NDA over the presidential candidate West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Supremo Mamata Banerjee said, There are other big Dalit leaders in India. He (Ram Nath Kovind) was leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP, so they have made him candidate.

Mamata Banerjee also said that someone of the stature of Sushma Swaraj or L K Advani should have been the presidential nominee.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury alleged the election of Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind as a political decision by the NDA. Yechury said,Ram Nath Kovindji RSS ke Dalit sakha ke pramukh thay, wo ek rajneeti hua na. Ye seedhi seedhi rajneetik takrao hai (Ram Nath Kovind was the president of the Dalit wing of RSS. This seems like a direct political clash).

CPI national secretary D Raja said Union ministers Rajnath Singh and M Venkaiah Naidu, who were part of the BJP's three-member panel formed to hold discussions and build a consensus on a presidential candidate, had not propose any name.

"Now, they have named a person with RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. A meeting will be held soon to discuss the same," he said.

Playing a safe card, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said, As he (Ram Nath Kovind) is a Dalit we are positive on his name, but only if opposition doesn't announce a popular dalit name.

She added that her party is also of opinion that it would have been better if NDA had named some non-political Dalit person as President nominee.

Meanwhile, opposition parties will meet on June 22 to decide on fielding a consensus candidate for the presidential election which is slated for July 17.

Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said the decision was taken without consensus. Azad said, During the meeting, senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had said that they will inform us before any announcement for a consensus, but they informed us after taking the decision. The Centre apprised the senior leaders, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh about the announcement over phone after taking the decision. So, there is no question of mutual consent. We didn't expect this from them.

Refuting to comment on NDAs decision of naming Ram Nath Kovind as their presidential candidate, Azad said, The Congress party doesn't want to comment on the name of the candidate announced by the NDA government. We only want to say that we had expected that before they take the final decision on the candidate, they will come back to us and other political parties to build a consensus first. But that doesn't happen,"

Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal said, The parties (opposition) will meet and decide whether or not to field a consensus opposition candidate for the July 17 presidential election.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of party leaders to decide on supporting the NDA's choice for President, party MP Sanjay Raut said on Monday.

He added that, We have suggested two names for the post. One was of (RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat. If they had a problem with that, we wanted (eminent agriculturist) M S Swaminathan. But since they have chosen some other name, the party will convey to the BJP our decision soon." Raut said.

Political parties like Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) have supported the decision of NDA.

In a telephonic conversation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, TDP president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said, "You have chosen a right candidate for the top post. An intellectual with high values belonging to the Dalit community is very apt in all respects for the president's post.

Extending support to NDAs presidential nominee, Telangana Chief Minister and Telangana Rashtra Samithi chief K Chandrashekhar Rao said, A prominent Dalit face as the Presidential nominee is a good decision and we support it."

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar expressed his happiness over the selection of Ram Nath Kovind as the NDAs presidential candidate.

Union Minister Ramvilas Paswan said, Sabko samarthan karna chahiye, jo nahi karenge to maana jaayega ki vo dalit virodhi hain, (All should favour the presidential candidate by NDA. People are opposing dalits by not supporting the candidate.)
Kolkata: Amid an indefinite strike engineered by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha that entered the eight day on Monday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee left for Netherlands to address an United Nations meet.

"Violent protests won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation," she told media at Kolkata airport.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said he has spoken to Mamata over the law and order situation in Darjeeling.

Thirty-six policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

The GJM announced an indefinite strike from Monday encompassing Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the Dooars protesting against Mamata Banerjee's decision to make Bengali language compulsory in state-run schools.

The strike was called even after the Chief Minister assured that the new rule would not be imposed in the hill districts.

The protestors are also asking for a separate Gorkhaland, a long pending demand of the people of the hills.

Earlier in the day, Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) chief Bimal Gurung claimed that the West Bengal Police are illegally entering their supporters' houses and torturing them and also accused them of killing two of his supporters.

He said that GJM would further strengthen their agitation.

Mamata Banerjee tore into the GJM supporters and said that they aren't listening to the court, even after it had passed an order citing the bandh was "illegal."

Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reviewed the security situation in West Bengal's Darjeeling by sending more troops to help restore normalcy as the state government has not yet submitted its report on the situation.
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum overstepped his constitutional authority on several recent vetoes, the attorney general said in an opinion released Monday, June 19.

Wayne Stenehjems opinion, requested by the House and Senate majority leaders last month, comes two days before a legislative committee is scheduled to discuss how to address several vetoes the first-term Republican governor issued after the session ended in late April. Grand Forks Republican Sen. Ray Holmberg, chairman of Legislative Management, said he expects the meeting to include deliberation on whether to call lawmakers back to Bismarck to override the vetoes.

The question will be, Will we have a veto session? Holmberg said.

Stenehjems analysis largely centered around four bills of which Burgum sought to veto portions. They were budget bills for higher education, the Department of Commerce, the State Water Commission and the Department of Trust Lands.

In several instances, Stenehjem said Burgum tried to veto conditions or restrictions on spending without vetoing the appropriation itself. He pointed to Burgums attempt to strike three words from the higher education funding bill that prevented Dickinson State University from discontinuing any portion of its nursing program.

The governor was within constitutional limits in other cases, however, like when he vetoed a section of bill appropriating $300,000 to an organization that provides workplace safety, Stenehjem said.

The longtime Republican attorney general also said that while Burgums vetoes of portions of the Water Commission and Trust Lands bills were not authorized by the Constitution, the vetoed language would be found by a court to violate the separation of powers doctrine. He said the significant budgetary decisions delegated to an interim legislative committee by those two bills are rightly within the function of the executive branch.

Burgums office did not have an immediate comment on Stenehjems opinion Monday afternoon. His spokesman defended the governors actions a month ago, when Rep. Al Carlson and Sen. Rich Wardner, the Republican majority leaders in their respective chambers, first asked for the opinion.

Carlson didnt return a message seeking comment late Monday afternoon. Wardner said he hadnt had a chance to read the opinion.
New Delhi: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind has been made the NDA's presidential candidate, said Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah on Monday, addressing the media after the party's parliamentary body meet.

Shah further said that Kovinds name was decided upon after consultations with Opposition leaders, including Congress president Sonia Gandhi and ex-prime minister Manmohan Singh.

PM has personally spoken to Sonia Gandhi ji, Manmohan Singh ji and everyone has been informed about the decision, he added.

Gandhi had said that the Congress decision will be announced after discussion, Shah said.

Kovind is a Dalit leader who has been Bihars governor for three years, since the beginning of Modis tenure. Hailing from a modest family in Uttar Pradesh, Kovind has been elected as a Rajya Sabha MP twice, in 1994 and 2000. He is also an advocate and has practiced law for 12 years.

Notably, if elected, Kovind will be the second Dalit Indian president after K R Narayanan.

Speaking about Kovind, Shah said, "he has always worked for the welfare and upliftment of Dalits and downtrodden classes".

However, the BJP chief said that they were yet to decide on a name for the post of vice-president.

The BJP Parliamentary Board's had met to decide the presidential candidate at party headquarters with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders present.

The Board members were briefed about the consultation undertaken by a three-member party committee with allies and opposition parties.

The committee members included Union ministers Rajnath Singh, M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley, who were also the members of the Board.

The presidential polls will be held on July 17.
Chennai: The Election Commission has asked the Tamil Nadu chief electoral officer to lodge a police case over the alleged bribery of voters in R K Nagar assembly segment, the poll panel has said in reply to a query under transparency law.

The bypoll slated for April 12 was cancelled subsequently following allegations of large-scale distribution of money to voters, entailing raids by the tax authorities.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) said it had directed the Chief Election Officer (CEO), Tamil Nadu on April 18 to ask the R K Nagar Returning Officer (RO) to file a complaint with police for bribing the voters.

In its response to a plea under Right to Information Act by a Chennai-based lawyer, M P Vairakkannan, a copy of which was circulated to media here, ECI Secretary Malay Mallick in his letter to the CEO refers to the Income Tax report on raids in Tamil Nadu, vis-a-vis the bypoll.

The letter said the Commission had received a report on April 9 from IT department on search and seizure of documents indicating large-scale distribution of money to bribe voters.

The alleged bribe/inducement was to influence the bypoll in RK Nagar which is an offence under IPC, the letter noted.

"Considering the facts and circumstances of the case, the Commission has directed that an FIR may be filed by the RO in the instant case," the letter said.

The letter, signed by Mallick, further said, "It is expected that quick and appropriate action is taken by the police and the Commission is apprised about the same at the earliest."

The Right to Information (RTI) plea of April 26 was received by the Commission on May 3 and the first of its eight questions sought to know about the action over the alleged distribution of money.

The query asked as to what action the poll panel would be taken against the electoral misconduct of distribution of money to voters in R K Nagar constituency against various persons.

The people against whom the proposed action by the poll panel had been enquired about included AIADMK (Amma) deputy general secretary T T V Dhinakaran, Chief Minister Edapadi K Palanisamy and ministers Sengotaiyan, Sellur K Raju, Thangamani and Vijayabaskar.

In response to the RTI plea, the ECI said "the Commission has directed that an FIR may be filed by the returning officer in the instant case, vide the Commission's letter dated April 18."

The second query in the RTI application asked, "Whether you (the ECI) have any proposal to disqualify the above persons for indulging in election misconduct?"

The ECI has responded to this query saying "information not in material form."

Similar was the answer to a question asking if there was any proposal to refer the matter to the CBI for a probe.

Meanwhile, Vairakkannan has approached the Madras High Court over this issue.

In his writ plea, expected to come up on Monday for hearing, he contended that though ECI directed the Tamil Nadu CEO to take appropriate action, the latter and the R K Nagar returning officer had not done so.

On the RTI response, he alleged that the CEO and the returning officer "are shielding the offenders for political reason."

He further submitted that it was just and necessary to direct the Tamil Nadu CEO and R K Nagar RO to file an FIR with the police.

He also sought a direction to the police to probe the matter and file a chargesheet for the commission of offence punishable under the IPC.
The authorities have constituted a Commission to inquire into the incident. (Photo: File/Representational)

Hyderabad: As many as 30 trainee police constables in Adilabad district of Telangana were hospitalised today due to suspected food poisoning.

The constables at the District Training Centre in Adilabad after having dinner last night complained of vomiting and loose motions in the early hours of Monday and were admitted to a hospital, police said.

Police added that 30 trainees had not consumed food served at the centre but ate outside food. The authorities have constituted a Commission to inquire into the incident.

Adilabad district superintendent of police M Srinivas, who visited the hospital, said doctors have informed that the admitted constables were doing fine and will be discharged today itself.

"It seems that after consuming contaminated food or water they suffered loose motions and vomiting...the matter is being verified," he said, adding, there were no fresh complaints.

The SP who also visited the centre ordered an inquiry into the incident and constituted a Commission under DSP K Sitaramulu and asked him to submit a report. There are 260 trainee constables at the Centre and out of them 30 who had ventured out of the training centre consumed food outside, police said.

A food inspector after preliminary inquiry said that the food served last night was fine, they added.
Earlier, the Home Ministry had put on hold the dispatch of 400 additional paramilitary personnel to Darjeeling for want of a report on the situation from the state government. (Representational Image)

New Delhi: West Bengal government has sent a report on the ongoing violence in Darjeeling to the Home Ministry, which has dispatched a company of 125 women security personnel to help restore peace in the hills.

The state government's report is under examination of the ministry, official sources today said.

Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi has also spoken to the state's chief secretary, who had demanded that two companies -- 250 personnel -- of women paramilitary personnel be sent there, they said.

However, the ministry decided to send only one company, the sources said.

Earlier, the Home Ministry had put on hold the dispatch of 400 additional paramilitary personnel to Darjeeling for want of a report on the situation from the state government.

Ten companies -- about 1,250 personnel -- are stationed in the region marred by violence during the ongoing agitation by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) for a separate state of Gorkhaland.

The sources said tripartite talks with all stakeholders concerned, including the GJM, to resolve the crisis have been deferred and a new date for the same are yet to be communicated to the Home Ministry.

It was reported earlier that the talks were scheduled for Monday.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh had on Sunday appealed to protesters not to resort to violence and instead hold dialogue to resolve any issue.

Resorting to violence would never help in finding a solution, he had said and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.
Hyderabad: Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday assured Muslims that the state government would fight with the Centre to provide 12 per cent reservations to the community.

Addressing the gathering at an Iftar dinner organised at Nizam College grounds, Mr Rao said that before passing the 12 per cent reservation Bill in the Assembly, he had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and told him that the TRS had promised reservation to the Muslims and requested him to take steps to incorporate the legislation in the Constitution.

Mr Rao said that the Prime Minister had told him to forward the Bill and it had been sent to the Centre accordingly.

We will not keep quiet till reservations turn into realty by vigorously pursuing with the Centre to incorporate the Bill in the Schedule concerned of the Constitution, the Chief Minister said.
New Delhi: After much hype and suspense, Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind was named as the NDAs presidential candidate on Monday following the intensive BJP parliamentary board meeting at partys headquarters in New Delhi.

A lawyer by profession, a Dalit leader by caste, a Hindutva ideologue by thinking and a dedicated Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker by political affiliation  Kovind was born on October 1, 1945 at Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh.

Kovind belongs to the Dalit community Koli and had worked extensively in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and also has the backing of BJP's ideological parent, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Kovind, a B.Com, LLB from Kanpur University (Uttar Pradesh) has been a very successful lawyer. He was Central Government Advocate in Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and Central Government Standing Counsel in Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993.

He became Advocate-on-Record of the Supreme Court of India in 1978. He had practiced in Delhi High Court and Supreme Court for about 16 years until 1993. Kovind was enrolled as an advocate in 1971 with the Bar Council of Delhi.

Kovind was elected to Rajya Sabha in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh and served for two consecutive terms for 12 years till March, 2006.

In Parliament, Kovind served as member of several important Parliamentary Committees such as: Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes, Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs, Parliamentary Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas, Parliamentary Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment, Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice, Chairman of Rajya Sabha House Committee.

Kovind had also been BJP Scheduled Caste Morcha chief from 1998 to 2002 and President of the All-India Koli Samaj.

Kovind has served as the national spokesperson of the party. BJP even tried to project him as an alternative to Mayawati in Uttar Pradesh. On 8th of August 2015, the President of India appointed him the Governor of Bihar. He was elected to Rajya Sabha from state of Uttar Pradesh during the two terms of 1994-2000 and 2000-2006.

Kovind is also known as a pioneer in spreading education. During his parliamentary tenure of 12 years, Kovind emphasized on the development of basic infrastructure for education in rural areas by helping in construction of school buildings in Uttar Pradesh and Uttrakhand under MPLAD scheme. As an advocate, Kovind took a lead in providing free legal aid to weaker sections of society, specially SC/ST women, needy and the poor under the aegis of Free Legal Aid Society in Delhi.

Kovind served as member of the board of management of BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow. He also served as member of board of governors of Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata.

He also represented India in United Nations (New York) and addressed the UN General Assembly in October, 2002.

Kovind is being credited of grooming several leaders for the BJP and the RSS.

Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is known for his proximity with Home Minister Rajnath Singh, but has also been a hard core supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's demonetisation drive.
Referring to revenue garnered by Tasmac, the minister said revenue from liquor sales for the year 2016-17 was at Rs 26,995.25 crore,

Chennai: Tamil Nadu has closed over 3,000 shops located on the State Highways selling liquor following the Supreme Court order,the state Assembly was informed Monday.

As per the orders of the Supreme Court, 3,321 Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) liquor retail vending shops have been closed as of April 1, 2017, Minister for Electricity P. Thangamani said.

The government while relocating the shops, also ensured that the location was as per the norms laid down in the order of the Supreme Court.

Wherever reasonable objections are raised by public, they are also taken into consideration before taking a decision on relocation of shops", he informed the state Assembly.

Referring to revenue garnered by Tasmac, the minister said revenue from liquor sales for the year 2016-17 was at Rs 26,995.25 crore,
Muslims, Adivasis, Marwaris, Rajbangshis and Biharis, who have lived in the hills for generations, are strongly identifying with the Gorkhas and have joined the protests, according to Mr Sailendra Dewan, who works with an e-commerce firm in the city.

A well-known holiday spot, Darjeeling is today in the throes of unrest with the struggle for Gorkhaland growing in the face of Bengals new proposal to make Bengali compulsory for all. Now, all forms of communication, including the Internet, have been cut off in the hill station. People who hail from the area and work in Bengaluru are a worried lot as they try to reach their friends and relatives back home, especially as stories abound of security forces grabbing young men for interrogation. Priyam Chhetri and Aksheev Thakur report.

It may be the go to place for honeymooners and holidaymakers, but the beautiful hill station of Darjeeling, nestling in the Lesser Himalayas in West Bengal, is today echoing with the demand for Gorkhaland. While it's not new, the demand has been renewed with some vigour of late, cutting off all communication between the hills with the rest of India for almost a week now, and sending relatives and friends in Bengaluru of those in the thick of the unrest into a frenzy of worry.

With the government clamping down on local new channels and other forms of communication, many had used the Internet to reach their loved ones. But now this connection too has been severed, leaving several young people in the city nervous about their parents and siblings back home, particularly as stories of security forces grabbing young men are making their way down from the hills.

It was the only way that our people were reaching out to the rest of the country and telling their side of the story. But now every form of communication has been cut off in Darjeeling. It is like an Emergency, deplores Mr Siddharth Bhitrikoty from Darjeeling, who works with HSBC in the city.

We are not being allowed to share our stories, protests Mr Rahul Pradhan, a techie in the city, who hails from Siliguri. It is clear that the government doesnt want the truth to come out. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying to contain the situation by forcefully cutting off communication with the outside world and trying to make the issue look smaller than it really is. She may be trying to keep her partys hold over Darjeeling, but it could boomerang on her, he warns

Those hailing from the picturesque hill station in Bengaluru, claim there is chaos in the town as young boys are being taken away from their homes and beaten on the streets and people are threatened by goons door to door. They come to each door at night to look for men in our households and take them and beat them in the name of inspection and questioning. We have no weapons, so what are they looking for? They threaten our families, leaving us no choice but to hide, says Mr Pranay Kharga, who works in a restaurant in Koramangala. He reveals that people from the town have begun spending their nights in the forests nearby to avoid such inspection. After an early dinner, they lock up their houses and take shelter in the forests, he says.

Maintaining that some of the weapons found in the home of Gorkha Janamukti Morcha chief, Bimal Gurung residence were not only old, but also traditionally used in festivals and tribal dance forms, Ms Nikita, who works in a beauty salon in Indiranagar says, They are bows and arrows. Who fights guns with those? The weapons found were old and rusted as the pictures clearly show. They are a part of our culture and tradition and CM Banerjee doesnt know the difference!

Referring to reports that unarmed Gorkha protestors, who were only using stones to defend themselves, were shot point blank by the CRPF, Colonel PC Dhanraj, who served in the Indian Army for 10 years, leading counter insurgencies in Manipur, says usually shots are fired in the air to create an effect and not to kill. If this is true, then it should be strongly condemned! The Gorkha communitys contribution to the Indian Army, to the independence of the country and even to the British Army is indisputable, he notes.

Meanwhile, an order issued by Mr Many Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Home and Hill Affairs Department, West Bengal, says the Internet connection will be restored on Tuesday and explains that it was was removed temporarily in the interest of public safety.

Minority communities defend gorkha cause

Bengaluru's Gorkha community is planning three protests in the city shortly in support of Gorkhaland even as Darjeeling and its surroundings remain on the boil, with schools, colleges and markets declared closed indefinitely and the hill station's famous toy train, a Unesco World Heritage site, deserted. People are refusing to open shop even when threatened, says Mr Dipendra Mukhia from the town.

This isnt a political party protest. Even when threatened and beaten, people are refusing to give in. Why would they put their lives on the line if they didnt believe in this? It is a peoples movement, he maintains, claiming there is anger and resentment over Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee's proposed introduction of Bengali as a compulsory language as the community fears it could be the first towards erasing their identity.

Nurses walk past armed security forces during the indefinite strike declared in Darjeeling (Photo: AP)

Muslims, Adivasis, Marwaris, Rajbangshis and Biharis, who have lived in the hills for generations, are strongly identifying with the Gorkhas and have joined the protests, according to Mr Sailendra Dewan, who works with an e-commerce firm in the city.

Their support has been crucial for the longest period of time and they have been with the cause just as much as we have. In fact, there are GJM heads from these communities in various parts of Darjeeling, Mirik, Kalimpong and Kurseong. I hail from Mirik and our head there is a Marwari who sees himself as a Gorkha. Generations of their families have grown up with us and lived in our culture. They have been our brothers in arms. Imposition of Bengali is something they too are against, he says. Meanwhile, visitors from Karnataka to the hills are having a hard time returning. Take Bengalurean, Sumit Sreenath, whose family is stranded in Jaigon, Dooars because of the unrest. They went on a business trip to the hills as my dad works in the hardware trade. They are safe, but are not able to return home to Bengaluru. The protests are just starting in Dooars and it is only a matter of time before it envelops Salbari, Salugara, Siliguri and the surrounding areas of Darjeeling, Mr Sreenath notes worriedly.

Their support has been crucial for the longest period of time and they have been with the cause just as much as we have. In fact, there are GJM heads from these communities in various parts of Darjeeling, Mirik, Kalimpong and Kurseong

Sailendra Dewan e-commerce employee

They come door- to -door at night to look for men and take them and beat them in the name of inspection and questioning. We have no weapons, so what are they looking for? They threaten our families and so we have no choice but to hide.

Pranay Kharga,Restaurant employee in Bengaluru

It was the only way that our people had of reaching out to the rest of the country and telling their side of the story. But now all forms of communication have been cut off in Darjeeling. It is like an Emergency.

Siddharth Bhitrikoty, Hails from Darjeeling, works at HSBC, Bengaluru

Timeline of events

Infographic

GJM-BJP alliance cause for hope

Q&A Rahul Chamling president, NEP Foundation

In the 1980s nearly 1,500 people died in the struggle for Gorkhaland. What is the situation now?

The struggle did not begin in the early 80s. The issue is 110-years-old. We are fighting for our identity and in order to achieve this the Gurkhas are ready to give up their lives. The issue has intensified after the Bengal government decided to impose Bengali on us. We have a different culture and different language and we want to retain both.

Is the GJM just trying to draw political mileage from this struggle?

It is every individuals responsibility to fight for this cause. There is nothing political about it. However, many political parties are coming onboard to support us. Mr Bimal Gurung is capable of leading the struggle and we have no doubt about it.

Despite being a bonafide Indian citizen, people call you Nepali. Does it bother you?

Yes, it does. We have taken part in making India and our community has contributed to the Indian armed forces. It is really sad that we are forced to come out on the streets to demand our rights. We are just saying that our identity needs to be protected. Imposition of anything not related to our culture is unacceptable.

The then Union Minister, Mr Jaswant Singh in 2014 said that the BJP is not serious about Gorkhaland. Has the changed now?

Mr Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister has said, The problem of Gorkhas is our problem. So we are expecting the central government to intervene. The issue is old and should be resolved now. Gorkha Janmukti Morcha being in alliance with the BJP makes us hopeful.
Another loophole in the functioning of transport department is the spiking of distance between various points that lead to collecting higher fare. A few examples of that in Chennai are as follows.

Chennai: Lakhs of passengers commuting in Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) buses for inter-city travel probably are not aware of the fact that they are shelling out five rupees extra for each ride from Koyambedu to Poonamallee and vice versa.

Before 2010, buses would take two routes for the same destinations, 24-km stretch via Porur, Guindy, which cost Rs 11 for an ordinary ride and Rs 14 for express and 16-km stretch via Madhuravoyal that cost Rs 7 for an ordinary ride, and Rs 9 for express.

Owing to the Porur bridge construction and metro work, all the buses in the former route including 76C, 84, 89, 97, 100, 101, 102, 123, 201, 528 were diverted to Maduravoyal.

Seven years down the line, all diverted buses still collect a fare of `14 as opposed to `9 they are supposed to collect owing to the drop in the number of km. Much to the dismay, even the buses in the Maduravoyal route initially charging `9 have revised fares to Rs 14.

As per Motor Vehicles Act 287 (2), if a carriage needs to ply on temporary route, it should obtain the permit for that route and hence, collect the fare fixed for that respective route. But in this case, they are collecting the fare fixed for its shorter route though they run on longer route, said activist P. Citizen Senthil who acts on transport issues.

He has also filed a consumer case in 2013, which was rejected after three years as officials claimed that they were following various government orders. There is only one government order and till date, I do not get on what grounds they rejected my case. I have filed another case recently for which the hearings are going on, he added.

However, conductors and drivers say they are unaware about ticket pricing and are functioning according to the orders of managers. A conductor of 76 B said officials have asked not to question against the ticket prices and do what he is supposed to. On the other hand, public are flabbergasted as they are not acquainted with the issue.

When contacted, an official from TNSTC told Deccan Chronicle that the prices were supposed to be revised in 2016. However, with a series of uncertainties that followed, they were unable to take a step.

TNSTC charging extra rates

It is not only the private omni buses fleeing commuters violating the transport department norms but also state-run TNSTC collecting extra charges in contrast to rates fixed by the state.

The situation remains the same across the state despite several complaints on basic tariff rates and services fixed by the authorities that are not adhered.

TNSTC has different grades of buses for in-state and inter-city travel. While express buses charge high prices with fewer intervals, ordinary buses are inversely proportional. But, most of the ordinary mofussil buses collect express charge, but services are not provided, said Krishnakanth, a regular commuter.

Prices were last revised by TNSTC in 2011 and following that commuters allege that 90 per cent of the buses are express buses and not ordinary ones. It neither reduces cost nor travel time, they added.

Commuter T.J. Thyagarajan says from Uthukkotai to Tiruvallur the fare collected is Rs 16 as opposed to the standard fare of `12. Following that, he filed a PIL after which he claims the public relation officer convinced him to take it back. The plight of the commuters had been same for the past five years.

When questioned against it, an official from TNSTC said, If the express bus is full, we provide proper service and reach the destination in one stop. But, if the commuters are less, the bus stops everywhere to balance the collection. This is being done in a view to compensate the losses the department is facing.
It is a miserable experience for the patients visiting the King Koti government hospital as heavy rains resulted in water logging right in front of the gate and also caused hardship to the regular commuters on Monday. (Photo: DC)

Hyderabad: Should Greater Hyderabad receive more than 20 cm of rainfall on a single day, in a short period of time, and across all catchment areas, Kukatpally will be submerged. If Hyderabad experiences the floods that Chennai did a few years ago, Kukatpally will be more badly affected than any other division in the city says a report prepared for the GHMC by the infrastructure services firm Voyants.

If Kukatpally is affected badly, it will be a man-made disaster. Some 318 structures here are obstructing the free flow of storm water drains; there are 840 such obstructions across the city.

If this particular catchment area receives flash rains, it will cover the locality. The Kukatpally hydraulic zone is the most critical of all, as the obstructed drains cannot carry the increased load of water.

GHMC West zonal commissioner Hari Chandana Dasari said that according to the Voyant survey of Hyderabad's storm water drains, Kukatpally was the weakest of the 16 hydraulic zones and had the highest risk perception in terms of submergence.

Nala widening is the top priority in this division. As per the area contour, Kukatpally has one of the biggest nalas and is also linked to various divisions and Hussainsagar. If this gets flooded, automatically all the connected areas will be inundated. There would be floods across the city too, she said.

Asked what has led to this situation, the officer said, Encroachments on nalas and concrete structures on water channels. During a recent inspection, we found out that urban slums and commercial and apartment buildings built on nalas.

She said that the state government had released Rs 230 crore for the improvement of bottlenecks on storm water drains in the Greater Hyderabad. A large portion of the funds are for widening the Kukatpally area nalas.

Forty-seven storm water drains, with a length of 16.55 km have been identified for improvement.
Chennai: Fissures in the ruling AIADMK came to the fore in the Assembly on Monday when AIADMK Amma deputy general secretary T. T. V. Dhinakarans loyalist and Andipatti legislatorThanga Tamilselvan entered into an argument with the Speaker and later staged a walkout, much to the amusement of Opposition DMK.

Thanga Tamilselvan caused a flutter when he attempted to raise a supplementary query during the Question Hour in the Assembly on Monday.

Normally, legislators belonging to the ruling party seldom argue with the Speaker and abide by his ruling. It is most uncommon for them to walk out of the Assembly protesting against the Speakers decision.

Tamiliselvans boldness raised eyebrows in the House. During question hour, members, including Nilakottai MLA, R. Thangadurai posed questions over establishing primary health centres in their constituencies and health minister C. Vijayabaskar replied. At this juncture, Thanga Tamilselvan raised his hand and sought the permission of the Chair to raise a similar plea. Speaker P. Dhanapal told Thanga Tamilselvan that he would be given an opportunity and asked him to resume his seat.

But the MLA insisted that his question was related to health department and that he should be allowed to raise it. Mr. Dhanapal declined. Immediately, the Andipatti MLA left the House following which the DMK members thumped the desks amidst laughter.

Outside the Assembly, Tamilselvan told reporters that no progress has been made despite passing the government passing an order to construct a PHC in his constituency.
Chennai: People in Jamin Pallavaram on Sunday morning damaged cars and propaganda vehicle alleging that one of godman Nithyananda's followers tried to behave indecently with a local woman and also tried to encroach upon a road in Pachaiamman Nagar near Trisoolam.

Three days ago Tiruvannamalai district administration and local residents chased away devotees of godman Nithyananda when they tried to encroach upon a hillock there.

Following Sunday's incident police had taken three devotees of Nithyananda including C. Gopi, 32, and 15 local residents to Pallavaram station for questioning in connection with the melee that happened on Sunday morning.

Gopi was arrested under sections Tamil Nadu prohibition of woman harassment Act. We have also arrested nine local residents for attacking, damaging vehicles and threatening to kill the devotees of the godman. All others were allowed to go back, police disclosed on Sunday night.

According to the police, Valli, a devotee of the godman, had donated her land measuring 2.15 acres for building a ashram in Pachaiamman Nagar.

The ownership of the particular land itself is a question mark because another person is also claiming that the land belongs to him.

In this background devotees of godman had started parking their propaganda vehicles and cars in the property and started fencing the land. They had not only fenced the land but also a street, following which the residents started objecting to it.

The land dispute is currently being looked into by the revenue department. On Sunday, when local resident Anand and his wife were walking through the area one of the devotees of Nithyananda allegedly made some remarks and showed some obscene gestures. This led to Anand bringing in more people from his neighbourhood and they damaged the car, police said. Police noted that followers of godman had been staying in the place in containers that are turned into air-conditioned mobile residences.
KOCHI: As many as 31 student startup founders from six states are on a week-long visit to Silicon Valley to learn from the best at the tech Mecca under a flagship #StartInCollege programme instituted by the Startup Village Collective (SV.CO) in partnership with Facebook. Students from various engineering colleges, who have built their startup products while being enrolled in SV.COs digital learning program, are on a week-long visit to showcase their prototypes, learn product development and skills, and get exposure to the world class startup ecosystem in Silicon Valley.

In the US, the team, the largest single Indian student startup delegation to visit Silicon Valley, were welcomed by the City Council of Menlo Park and housed at Menlo College. The team will visit the headquarters of Facebook in Menlo Park on Tuesday. Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) is sponsoring 19 of the students as part of its international programme for startups.

If we are to build a world-class startup ecosystem in India, our entrepreneurs need to get first-hand experience of global best practices, said Dr Saji Gopinath, CEO, KSUM. According to Sanjay Vijayakumar, Chairman, Startup Village Collective, the Silicon Valley visit will give a world class global exposure to the students which will motivate them. Our aim is to take 300 students next year so that more students from across the country get an opportunity to become job creators and contribute to the growth of the nation he added.
Kochi: The Kerala High Court has sought the state and central governments views on the petitions seeking to shut down the liquor shops functioning within 500 metres of the roads passing through Kozhikode and Ernakulam cities as these roads were still part of the national highway. P.A. Salim of Edappally submitted before the court that Aroor Junction  Edappally roads passing via Thoppumpady, Thevara, MG Road, Kaloor and Palarivattom are part of National Highway 47. The schedule of the National Highway Authority of India had shown that NH 47 was passing through Ernakulam city.

But the excise authorities were allowing liquor shops to carry on the business in violation of the Supreme Court guidelines. Santhosh Kumar and four others from Ramanattukkara, Kozhikode, also moved the court. The government had never issued any notification omitting the roads from the schedule of National Highway. The petitioners sought to declare that the road passing from Ramanattukara Junction to Kannur road through Cheruvannur, Meenchantha, Kallai and Mananchira in Kozhikode town is an NH and, therefore, the functioning of liquor outlets within 500 metres from the road is illegal.
New Delhi: Playing the Dalit card, the BJP on Monday named Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential candidate. A surprise pick, Mr Kovind could be the second President hailing from Uttar Pradesh, a state with the largest number of MPs and the highest number of Assembly constituencies.

Mr Kovinds name was also seen as part of the BJPs gameplan for the crucial 2019 elections and a message to the Dalit community, that is both electorally significant and numerically dominant.

The Opposition parties have, meanwhile, called a meeting on Thursday to take a final call on whether or not to fight the election, with the Congress, CPM and Trinamul calling Mr Kovinds choice a unilateral decision by the BJP.

The BJP-led NDA, however, seems to be in a comfortable position in the electoral college as some non-NDA outfits, including the Biju Janata Dal, TRS and YSRC, have pledged support to its candidate. The BJP also hopes that Tamil Nadus ruling AIADMK will also back its choice.

The electoral college appears to be tilted toward the NDA despite ally Shiv Sena continuing the suspense over whether or not it would support Mr Kovind.

Mr Kovinds name was officially announced by BJP president Amit Shah after the partys parliamentary board meeting which was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Kovinds nomination can break Opposition unity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmers son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service and worked for the poor and marginalised... With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovinds knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation... I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised.

Mr Modi himself called Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and several chief ministers, including Bihars Nitish Kumar, Andhra CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, Odishas Naveen Patnaik and Tamil Nadu's E. Palaniswami to seek their support for the NDA candidate.

Also, that the NDA nominee could dent the Opposition blocs unity was evident with JD(U) president and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar expressing his personal happiness over the NDA nominee, but he didn't commit his partys support to his candidature.

Stopping short of expressing her party's support to Mr Kovind, BSP supremo Mayawati said her party could not be negative to a Dalit candidate. Dalits are a major votebank in both UP and Bihar, and the BSPs core base. However, the BJPs own ally Shiv Sena continued the suspense over whether or not it would support Mr Kovind when Sena supremo Uddhav Thackeray said that a Dalit face for the presidential elections is being used just for Dalit votes. The Sena never does caste-based politics.

The Sena said it would declare its stand on the matter on Tuesday. Naveen Patnaiks BJD joined ranks with Jagan Mohan Reddys YSRCP and K. Chandrasekhar Rao's TRS to support the NDA nominee.

A crusader for weaker sections

Kovind is a lawyer-turned-politician, whose choice as NDAs presidential candidate is being seen as a political masterstroke.

He is a lawyer by profession, a Dalit leader by caste, a Hindutva ideologue by thinking and a dedicated BJP worker by political affiliation.

He had worked extensively in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Kovind was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1994 from UP and served for two consecutive terms for 12 years till March 2006.

Kovind was BJP Scheduled Caste Morcha chief and president of the All-India Koli Samaj.

He joined a stir by SC/ST employees in 1997 when certain orders by the Centre hit them badly.

He represented India in United Nations (New York) and addressed the UNGA in 2002.

Who stands where

Congress: The Congress spurned the BJPs appeal for consensus and said the opposition would take a call on contesting the election on June 22.

BSP: Mayawati said her party cannot take a negative stand against a Dalit. She, however, stopped short of supporting him.

LJP: Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan extended full support to Mr Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray said Shiv Sena will take a final decision regarding its support on Tuesday.

Trinamul: Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP, they have made him the candidate, says Mamata Banerjee.

JD(U): Nitish Kumar expressed happiness over Ram Nath Kovinds candidature for President's post, stopping short of committing support to the NDA nominee.
New Delhi: The NDAs presidential candidate, Ram Nath Kovind, has created an uncomfortable situation for the 17-party Opposition conglomerate and forced it to rethink its strategy.

The Opposition was in a tizzy on Monday, trying to find and field a dalit candidate to counter the ruling partys nominee. The names doing the rounds are of former Speaker Meira Kumar and B.R. Ambedkars grandson Prakash Ambedkar. Sources said that a tribal candidate was also being mulled. The Opposition camp had earlier planned to field former West Bengal Governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi, who is Mahatma Gandhis grandson.

The rethink is necessary as at least two parties  the Janata Dal (United) and BSP chief Mayawati  have indicated that they would find it difficult to oppose a dalit candidate.

Ms Mayawati said that her party could not be negative to a dalit candidate, but she stopped short of expressing support for Mr Kovind, saying her party would be positive only if the Opposition did not field a dalit candidate.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar rushed to meet Mr Kovind, who is the Governor of his state, and maintained that he was suitable candidate for the post.

As soon as Mr Kovinds candidature was announced by the BJP, the Congress was the first to react, saying that the decision had been taken by the BJP unilaterally and that they had not been consulted.

Though information and broadcasting minister M. Venkaiah Naidu and home minister Rajnath Singh had met Congress president Sonia Gandhi last week, they had not discussed any names. They had merely asked Mrs Gandhi for her partys support for the presidential elections.

We had expected that before taking a final decision, they would have spoken with us, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, and added that a decision on the matter would be taken by all the Opposition parties together in the next meeting on June 22.
I got us into this mess; Ill get us out, so said Prime Minister Theresa May to her MPs four days after the recent general election. Most of the country would probably agree with the first sentiment; rather fewer would agree with the second. To understand why, lets backtrack. On becoming Prime Minister, Ms May had said she wouldnt call a general election. She had a small majority in the House of Commons and could probably have survived the remainder of her term. Then in mid-April she suddenly changed her mind. She wanted a personal mandate. She said she needed a healthy majority to see her through the forthcoming Brexit negotiations. No doubt that figured in her calculations. But also no doubt a Conservative Party opinion poll lead of some 20 points figured at least as highly. She wanted to smash the Labour Party and establish the Conservatives as the natural home of the Brexit-voting working classes. Ms May fought the election on her personal standing: she would be a strong and stable leader, trusted to stand up for the country against the European Union. Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, would be weak and chaotic.

Having made leadership qualities central to the campaign, Ms May then proceeded to demonstrate conclusively that she lacked them. She parroted party slogans; she refused to take part in televised debates with other party leaders; she failed to answer questions put to her in TV interviews; and she shied away from meeting electors. Instead she favoured stage-managed meetings with Conservative Party supporters, who put pre-determined questions to which she gave rehearsed answers. Unsurprisingly, Ms May came across as unimaginative, unconvincing and robotic. Her campaign was an embarrassment for all concerned: her, her party and the electorate. Mr Corbyn, on the other hand, far exceeded all expectations. He showed himself to be in touch with the peoples concerns. He toured the country energetically, evidently relished meeting voters and debated personally all comers. But above all, he enthused the young. And it showed. Far from turning her small majority into a comfortable one, Ms May succeeded in losing it entirely. The Labour Party, far from being smashed, is resurgent. Its share of the vote increased by 10 points and it is now fewer than three points behind the Conservatives. The Labour Party also seems to have become the repository of the hopes of the remainers, those who voted in last years referendum to remain in the EU.

The higher the remain vote in a constituency, the better the Labour Party did. Interestingly though, in seats where the majority had voted to leave, Labour largely managed to maintain is vote. But this is just the start of Ms Mays difficulties. Once the results were in, Ms Mays first move was to approach the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to forge a pact. Numerically that may work. A pact with the DUP would create a bloc in the House of Commons with an effective overall majority of five seats. On every other level, however, it does not.

The DUP is a Northern Ireland party which follows a hard-line Unionist approach: sectarian, distrustful of cooperation with the Republic of Ireland and reluctant in its participation in the Northern Irish peace process. There are also rumours of links with former Unionist paramilitaries. This would be bad enough, but the power-sharing executive in Northern Ireland has collapsed and the UK government is required to be an honest broker in putting it back together. Linked to the DUP, giving the impression of impartiality and objectivity necessary for that role will be difficult.

But it gets worse. Amongst the DUPs 10 MPs are fundamentalist Christians and climate-change deniers. The leader of the Scottish Conservatives, who now number 13 MPs, is a lesbian and is deeply sceptical of the tieup with the DUP. The Scottish Conservatives are also angling for the UK to remain in the EU single market and customs union, a so-called soft Brexit. The DUP says it supports a hard Brexit. It also seems that Ms May has learnt nothing from her campaign debacle. Last week Grenfell Tower, a highrise tower block of social housing in west London, burnt down. At least 79 people were presumed killed, and while the final death toll is still not known, the surviving inhabitants are bereaved, homeless and angry. It seems that the fire prevention systems were wholly inadequate and fire-resistant cladding for the building had been rejected to save on costs, which were minimal. Ms Mays instinct was to meet senior firefighters; Mr Corbyns was to meet the victims. Following criticism, Ms May then went to meet the victims. But the damage had been done; Ms May was booed and jeered. One wonders how long Ms May can continue so spectacularly to get it so wrong.

Meanwhile, a deadline approaches. On Wednesday there is the Queens speech, when the government puts its programme before the House of Commons. Yet a deal with the DUP has still not been finalised. We also do not yet know what will be in it, though it will probably include a wish to seek a hard Brexit. Three Cabinet ministers are said to have threatened to resign if the government did not adopt a hard-Brexit position. If the Queens speech proposes a hard Brexit, the soft-Brexit Conservative MPs will face a choice: back Ms May or rebel. If they rebel, the government will probably fall. Labour would then seek to form a new administration, and lacking the numbers, would probably fail. It would then have the right to call another general election, which it could well win. For that reason, the soft-Brexiters will probably refrain from voting against the government; at least for now.

There is another deadline too: March 29, 2019. By that date the UK must have agreed a deal with the EU on the terms of its departure, whether soft-Brexit, hard-Brexit or no Brexit. If no agreement is reached, the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal and chaos results. The deadline can only be extended with the EUs agreement. As the Brexit negotiations get underway in earnest, the task of simultaneously satisfying both soft and hard Brexiters on the Conservative benches is likely to become too much; particularly for someone so lacking in imagination and flexibility as Ms May. If it does, she is likely to fall and another election is likely to take place. The EU will then look on with incredulity as the UK thrashes about, yet again unable to choose a government and unable to decide what it wants. All the while, the clock will be ticking. As Laurel and Hardy might have put it: heres another fine mess youve gotten us into.
China is planning a manned mission to the Moon, and officials have announced that the preliminary preparations for the lunar landing have begun.

In a first, China is planning to send mini-ecosystems - containing potato seeds and silkworm eggs - to the Moon next year, in an attempt to study how the organisms develop on the lunar surface.

The 3-kilogramme mini-ecosystem, developed by research teams led by Chongqing University in China, will be sent to the Moon by the Chang'e 4 scheduled to launch in 2018, authorities announced at the Global Space Exploration Conference.

An 18-centimetre-tall cylinder will carry potato seeds and silkworm eggs to be incubated.

The silkworms will hatch and create carbon dioxide, while the potato plants will generate oxygen, Zhang Yuanxun, who designed the ecosystem, was quoted as saying by 'Global Times'.

Xie Gengxin, chief designer on the project, said their mission is to prepare for future moon landings and possible human inhabitants.

"We will livestream the development of plants and insects on lunar surface to the whole world," Gengxin added.

China is planning a manned mission to the Moon, and officials have announced that the preliminary preparations for the lunar landing have begun.

Yang Liwei, deputy director general of China Manned Space Agency and the country's first astronaut said that it will not take long for the project to get official approval and funding.

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Samsung is on a launching-spree. After unveiling Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus smartphones, the company launched the Galaxy J7 Pro and J7 Max in India earlier this month. The South-Korean tech giant is now all set to bring its Galaxy Tab S3  which was launched at MWC, 2017  to India next week. The firm has started sending out media invites to an event soon, accompanied by an image that showcases a tablet-like device with a physical home button and caption, Work. Play. My Way.

The latest Galaxy Tab S3 features a large 9.7-inch super AMOLED QXGA (2048 x 1536 pixel resolution) display and is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 quad-core processor. The tablet offers 4GB of RAM along with 32GB of internal storage. On the camera front, the tab flaunts a 13MP rear camera with 4K video recording capability and a 5MP front snapper. The device further houses a massive 6,000mAh battery.

The tablet also supports S Pen, allowing individuals to make use of Samsung Notes and its different features including note-taking, drawing and image-management capabilities. Other features that come packed with the device are its Air Command functions like Smart Select and Samsung Flow, which apparently makes working on the go easy.

Whats interesting about Samsung Flow is that it makes use of biometric authentication for log-in purpose and can even wirelessly tether to other compatible devices. This is especially beneficial for those who wish to transfer documents from their mobile phones to their tablets. The device also syncs message notifications, therefore allowing users to keep a tab of all the important incoming text messages. The price of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 is still unknown.

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Threats as a result of data leak, unauthorised changes to master data and involvement of third parties -- who will have access to a company's data -- are set to increase.

As the country is gearing up to usher in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from next month, experts have cautioned that the government as well as firms should firewall their systems to deal with increasingly more complex cyber threats.

Billed as the country's biggest taxation reform since independence, the Goods and Service Tax (GST) is expected to kick off from July 1.

Experts opined there could be a rise in the number of security incidents, if the government and private players do not prepare themselves adequately to address the potential cyber risks around the GST.

PwC India Partner and Leader (Cyber Security) Sivarama Krishnan said there are several threats that companies could get exposed to as a result of the new tax regime.

Threats as a result of data leak, unauthorised changes to master data and involvement of third parties -- who will have access to a company's data -- are set to increase.

"Companies need to modify their IT architecture with a focus on the GST. Hardening and security configurations of the systems that will be used in the end-to-end technology landscape will be required," he said.

Ansh Bhargava, Senior Consultant, Taxmann.com, was of the view that since the GST Network (GSTN) will be recording the data of 8 million taxpayers each month, "it is imperative that this sensitive financial information be safeguarded against malicious attacks or security breaches in every possible way".

"It is of utmost importance that the cyber security unit is not only capable of detecting security threats but also conducting fraud investigations and forensics whenever needed," he said.

On cyber threats, Rohan Khara of mobile wallet company MobiKwik said even small glitches can mean major disruptions, which is why his company has set up a robust technology infrastructure to handle billions of transactions.

"We even use predictive analytics that can forewarn of cyber issues," he said.

The expert from PwC further said that in order to de-risk themselves, companies must adopt new approaches to cyber security, governance and monitoring processes.

"The GST requires restructuring of the IT processes. If operationally security aligns with business objectives, it will enable a seamless GST process," Krishnan said.

Rajeev Banduni, Co-founder and CEO GrowthEnabler advised that with the rushed timeline of implementation, suppliers and buyers should assess the information security practices of the Application Service Providers (ASP) and GST Suvidha Providers (GSP) while processing for GST implementation.

"These end-devices of ASPs and GSPs could be the next target of cyber terrorists," he cautioned.

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The Galaxy Note 8 is speculated to feature a 6.7-inch Infinity Display. It will come with an improved S-Pen with advanced controls baked in.

After the Samsung Galaxy S8, tech enthusiasts have been looking at the Korean smartphone giant for the next flagship release of the year. Expected to be a continuation of the famed Note series that was in news for all the wrong reasons last year, the Note 8 is hinted to be arriving with a bigger display than the Galaxy S8+ and will feature an improved S Pen. In the midst of various leaks, a new press release has surfaced for the alleged Galaxy Note 8.

The press release shows a render of the alleged Note 8 handset based on the existing rumours. The Note 8 carries the Galaxy S8s Infinity Display, albeit in a bigger form factor. The edges are slightly squared compared the Galaxy S8s rounded edges. However, it seems to be more of a fan-rendered image than a leaked image.

The Galaxy Note 8 is speculated to feature a 6.7-inch Infinity Display. It will come with an improved S-Pen with advanced controls baked in. It could run on the Exynos 8895 processor with 6GB of RAM and come with 64/128GB storage. Industry experts say that the Note 8 could be featuring a dual rear camera setup that could fight the alleged iPhone 8.

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Fire can be seen by the swimming pool of the Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako, Mali (Photo: AP)

Bamako: Four assailants have been killed by security forces in Mali after an attack on a tourist resort popular with foreigners close to the capital Bamako, the country's security minister said late Sunday.

"We have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed", Salif Traore told journalists, adding that they were "searching for the bodies of two others", without specifying if any more were on the run.

"We were able to rescue nearly 36 guests and workers from the resort", including around 15 French nationals and a similar number of Malians.

The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort, an "ecolodge" run by a Frenchman, is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults by jihadists in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists. In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was claimed by Al-Qaeda's North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).
United Nations armored personnel vehicles are stationed with an ambulance outside Campement Kangaba, a tourist resort near Bamako (Photo: AP)

Bamako: Suspected jihadists crying "Allahu Akbar" stormed a tourist resort popular with foreigners on the edge of the Malian capital Bamako on Sunday, briefly seizing more than 30 hostages and leaving at least two people dead.

The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.

Four assailants were killed by security forces, Mali's security minister said late Sunday, without specifying if more were on the run.

Nearby residents had first reported the attack after hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.

"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened," Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP, adding that two people had been killed, including a Franco-Gabonese.

He later told journalists that "we have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed" and were searching for the bodies of two others.

"We were able to rescue around 36 guests and workers from the resort", including around 15 French nationals and a similar number of Malians, he added.

The special forces were supported by UN soldiers and French counter-terrorism troops.

Mali's army earlier said that one of the attackers was wounded and gave up his weapon. He also left behind "bottles containing some explosive substances", the security ministry said.

At least 14 people, both Malians and foreigners, were injured, according to the ministry.

A witness interviewed on local television ORTM said he saw a man arrive on a motorcycle who "started shooting at the crowd" followed by "two or three people" who came in another vehicle.

The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Bamako on July 2 for a meeting with five Sahel countries, "is following the situation very closely," the presidency told AFP Sunday.

- 'Increased threat of attacks' -

Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest)", although no group has yet claimed responsibility.

The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month "of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent".

At a France-Africa summit in Bamako in January, the owner of Kangaba, Herve Depardieu, had complained about the "alarming security information" given by foreign consulates "which seriously disturb our love of life and our freedoms".

In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.

That attack was claimed by Al-Qaeda's North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.

The Kangaba, located on the eastern edge of Bamako, boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools, according to its website.

- State of emergency -

A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months, but attacks are continuing.

In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

But jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.

Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists.

In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou. AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.

In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.

The United Nations has a 12,000-strong force in Mali known as MINUSMA, which began operations in 2013.

It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed, including five on Saturday.

France also has 4,000 soldiers in its Bakhane force in five countries -- Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso -- all of which are threatened by the jihadists across their porous borders.
The recent assault by ISIS-aligned fighters on the Philippine city of Marawi has left more than 300 people dead. (Photo: File)

Washington: Southeast Asia's jihadist who fought by the hundreds for the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria now have a different battle closer to home in the southern Philippines. It's a scenario raising significant alarm in Washington.

The recent assault by ISIS-aligned fighters on the Philippine city of Marawi has left more than 300 people dead, exposing the shortcomings of local security forces and the extremist group's spreading reach in a region where counterterrorism gains are coming undone.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis told Congress last week that a long-running US military operation to help Philippine forces contain extremist fighters was canceled prematurely three years ago.

Small numbers of US special forces remain in an "advise and assist" role, and the US is providing aerial surveillance to help the Philippines retake Marawi, an inland city of more than 200,000 people.

But lawmakers, including from President Donald Trump's Republican Party, want a bigger US role, short of boots on the ground. They fear the area is becoming a new hub for Islamist fighters from Southeast Asia and beyond.

"I don't know that ISIS are directing operations there but they are certainly trying to get fighters into that region," said Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, using another acronym for the group. "We need to address the situation. It should not get out of control."

US intelligence and counterterrorism officials note that ISIS has publicly accepted pledges from various groups in the Philippines. In a June 2016 video, it called on followers in Southeast Asia to go to the Philippines if they cannot reach Syria.

About 40 foreigners, mostly from neighboring Indonesia and Malaysia, have been among 500 involved in fighting in Marawi, the Philippine military says. Reports indicate at least one Saudi, a Chechen and a Yemeni were killed. In all, more than 200 militants have died in the standoff, now in its fourth week.

Video obtained by The Associated Press from the Philippine military indicates an alliance of local Muslim fighters, aligned with ISIS, is coordinating complex attacks. They include the Islamic State's purported leader in Southeast Asia: Isnilon Hapilon, a Filipino on Washington's list of most-wanted terrorists, with a $5 million bounty on his head.

US officials are assessing whether any of the estimated 1,000 Southeast Asians who traveled to Iraq and Syria in recent years are fighting in Catholic-majority Philippines. They fear ungoverned areas in the mostly Muslim region around Marawi could make the area a terror hub, as in the 1990s.

Then, the Philippines was a base of operations for al-Qaida leaders like Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and Ramzi Yousef, who plotted in 1994-95 to blow up airliners over the Pacific. The plot was foiled. But the same men were instrumental in the 9/11 attacks on the United States.

Other nations share the fear. Singapore recently warned of ISIS exerting a radicalizing influence "well beyond" what al-Qaida and Jemaah Islamiyah ever mustered. Jemaah Islamiyah carried out major terror attacks around the region in the 2000s. ISIS already has been linked to attacks in Indonesia and Malaysia, and foiled plots in Singapore, this past year.

This month, Mattis told the region's defense chiefs that "together we must act now to prevent this threat from growing." In Congress this past week, he stressed intelligence sharing and nations like Singapore sharing the burden, rather than deploying US troops.

More than 500 US special forces were based in the Mindanao region from 2002 to 2014, advising and training Filipino forces against the Abu Sayyaf, a group notorious for bombings and kidnappings.

When it ended, Philippine and US officials voiced concern the US withdrawal "could lead to a resurgence of a renewed terrorist threat," the RAND Corp. later reported. Months before the withdrawal, Abu Sayyaf pledged support to ISIS.

Supporting the Philippines isn't straightforward in Washington. President Rodrigo Duterte is accused of overlooking and even condoning indiscriminate killings by his forces in a war on drugs. Thousands have died. But that campaign has involved mainly police and anti-narcotic forces, not the military leading the anti-ISIS fight.

Still, the Philippine government is partly to blame for Marawi's violence, said Zachary Abuza, a Southeast Asia expert at the National War College. He said the root cause was the government's failure to fulfill a 2014 peace agreement with the nation's largest Muslim insurgency, which fueled recruitment for IS-inspired groups.

Ernst, who chairs a Senate panel on emerging threats, wants the US military to restart a higher-profile, "named operation" helping the Philippines counter ISIS. The Pentagon retains between 50 and 100 special forces in the region. At the request of the Philippine military, it has deployed a P3 Orion plane to surveil Marawi. It gave more than 600 assault firearms to Filipino counterterrorism forces last week.

Duterte has retreated from threats to expel US forces from the Philippines as he seeks better ties with China. He said recently he hadn't sought more US help, but was thankful for what he was getting. "They're there to save lives," Duterte said.
Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party was on course for a massive majority in parliamentary elections on Sunday, routing the country's traditional forces in a dramatic re-drawing of the political map.

Macron's year-old Republique en Marche (Republic on the Move, REM) and their allies were set to win between 355 and 403 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, based on partial results after the second round of an election which has swept away many high-profile figures.

The result, if confirmed, would give 39-year-old Macron one of France's biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his programme of business-friendly reforms.

The assembly is set to be transformed with a new generation of lawmakers -- younger, more ethnically diverse and with far more women than the outgoing parliament.

But Macron's success was tempered by record low turnout of around 44 percent, leading opposition leaders to claim he had no groundswell of support.

The winning score was lower than forecast during the past week when some estimates suggested REM and its allies could secure as many as 470 seats.

"A clear majority has voted for us," REM spokesman Benjamin Griveaux told TF1, adding: "It will be a majority with an opposition and that's good news."

- Desire for change -

Just months ago, Macron was given little chance of becoming president, never mind controlling parliament, but he and the movement he founded 16 months ago have tapped into a widespread desire in France for wholesale change.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, the rightwinger chosen by Macron to lead the cabinet, said voters had chosen "hope over misery".

REM swept aside the rightwing Republicans and Socialists, but also the far-right National Front (FN) of Marine Le Pen -- whom he defeated in the presidential run-off -- which fell far short of its target.

Le Pen, who entered parliament for the first time in her career, told supporters her FN had won at least six seats -- but the party was certain to fall short of its target of 15 seats.

"We are the only force of resistance to the watering down of France, of its social model and its identity," she said defiantly.

Le Pen's victory in the northern former coalmining town of Henin-Beaumont was a rare bright spot for her nationalist and anti-EU party that was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron.

The Socialists were the biggest losers of the night, punished by association with years of high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence.

The party shed around 200 seats after five years in power under former president Francois Hollande, leaving them with only around 45-50 seats.

"The rout of the Socialist Party is undeniable," said PS leader Jean-Christophe Cambadelis, who humiliatingly lost his seat in the first round and resigned his position on Sunday night.

Former Socialist prime minister Manuel Valls narrowly retained his seat in the Paris suburbs, but former education minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem -- a one-time Socialist star -- was beaten by an REM candidate in the central city of Lyon.

The Republicans hung on to between 97 and 130 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party.

The party had enough seats to "defend its convictions", said the party's leader for the elections, Francois Baroin, calling on Macron to heed the record-low turnout, which he said sent "a message".

"The task he faces is immense," he added.

- Virtual unknowns -

Around half of REM's candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism.

They include celebrity mathematician Cedric Villani and female bullfighter Marie Sara, who failed in her attempt to beat senior FN figure Gilbert Collard by barely 100 votes in southern France.

The other half are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians drawn from established parties including ally MoDem.

The hard-left France Unbowed also struggled to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election. It was forecast to win only between 10 and 30 seats.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, the firebrand leader of the movement, won a seat from the southern city of Marseille on a promise to lead resistance to Macron's radical labour market reforms.

Melenchon highlighted the record low turnout, saying: "The French people is now engaged in a sort of civic general strike."

Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans measures to deepen European integration and an overhaul of the social security system.

His confident start at home, where he has concentrated on trying to restore the lost prestige of the president, and his bold action on the international stage has led to a host of positive headlines.

He won instant plaudits from France's closest ally Germany, with Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman hailing his "clear parliamentary majority."
The weapons and explosives found in the vehicle could potentially blow this car up, he added. (Representational Image)

A car loaded with gas canisters rammed into a police van on the Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris on Monday, leaving the driver dead in what the interior minister said was an attempted attack.

Police sources said that a Kalashnikov rifle, handguns and gas bottles were found in the white Renault Megane. Security forces have been targeted in France once again, interior minister Gerard Collomb said, calling the incident an attempted attack.

The weapons and explosives found in the vehicle could potentially blow this car up, he added. Interior ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said bomb disposal experts were on the scene to ensure the vehicle poses no further danger. Video showed orange smoke pouring from the car after the impact.

No police or bystanders were injured in the incident near the Grand Palais exhibition hall. People were running every which way, said a 51-year-old bystander who gave his name only as Alexandre. Some shouted at me to get away.

Anti-terrorism prosecutors have opened an investigation. The incident came just two months after a policeman was shot and killed on the avenue, days before the first round of Frances presidential election.
Mr Barnier said that Britain and the EU have agreed on the priorities and timetable for Brexit negotiations after the first session of talks.(Representational Image)

Britain and the European Union began formal Brexit negotiations on Monday, vowing to work constructively for a deal despite disarray in London over whether to go for a hard or soft divorce.

Almost exactly a year after Britains seismic referendum to leave the bloc, the EUs chief negotiator, Michel Barnier of France, welcomed his counterpart David Davis with a cheery handshake at the European Commission in Brussels.

Mr Barnier said that Britain and the EU have agreed on the priorities and timetable for Brexit negotiations after the first session of talks. This first session was useful, we start off on the right foot as the clock is ticking, he said during a joint press conference with Mr Davis.

Meanwhile, according to reports the Brexit negotiations may be a very dry affair. Eurocrats have been advised to stay sober during the talks because of the heatwave, the Telegraph reported.

It also appears Mr Davis and Mr Michel Barnier may have to negotiate in the dark as staff have been told to switch off all the lights. The talks may also have to end early, as EU staff have been told they can leave work at 4 pm if the weather is too warm, the report said.

A memo sent to the EUs Committee of the Regions state: No suits and ties where possible, You are advised not to drink alcohol and Switch off the lights.
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar on June 5 and announced that Qatari residents would have 14 days to leave. (Photo: AP/Representational)

Dubai: The deadline for Qataris to leave neighbouring Gulf Arab states has come into effect as the diplomatic standoff persists despite multiple mediation efforts.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain cut ties with Qatar on June 5 and announced that Qatari residents would have 14 days to leave. The deadline was Monday.

Officials later clarified there would be exceptions for mixed-nationality families in the Gulf.

Still, the United Nations human rights chief and rights groups such as Amnesty International have criticised the expulsion of Qataris, saying there are people who risk losing their jobs and students who cannot sit for exams.

Gulf Arab states, outraged by Qatar's support of Islamists, accuse it of backing terror groups. Qatar says the allegations are politically motivated and that it denounces terrorism.
Faisalabad: Pakistan continues to mislead the world about its so called crack down on terrorism, however a glaring contrast to this claim came to light in a video accessed by ANI wherein one of the masterminds of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack addressed reporters in Pakistan's Faisalabad and beseeched them to highlight and foster unrest in Kashmir.

Hafiz Saeed's brother-in-law and second in command of designated terrorist group Jamat ud Dawah (JuD), Abdul Rahman Makki, recently hosted an Iftaar party for journalists in Faisalabad.

In a video posted on YouTube on June 17, the Mumbai terror attack mastermind can be seen urging reporters to take up and spread the cause of 'Kashmir independence'.

"We turn to you (the journalists) as you have the power of pen and media. Through your talk shows you can do a lot (for this cause). So we urge the journalists here to wield there power and the experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir independence," Makki is seen as saying in the video.

He was given the charge of the head of Jamaat-ud-Dawah, which in February rebranded itself under the banner of Tehreek Azadi Jammu Kashmir (TAJK), after Saeed was put under house arrest by Pakistan's Punjab government. The move came after reportedly facing pressure from Washington.

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court on Monday is likely to announce its verdict on a petition regarding Saeed's detention.

Saeed and his four aides challenged their house arrest, as well as the addition of their names in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), in the Lahore High Court.

They were put under house arrest on January 30 invoking Section 11EEE of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.
Islamabad: Bakhsheesh Elahi was waiting for the morning bus when a lone gunman on a motorcycle pulled up beside him and shot him dead. Rana Tanveer had just taken his family to safety after radical Islamists spray-painted death threats on his door, when a car smashed into his motorcycle and sped away.

Taha Siddiqui answered his phone to hear a menacing voice from a government agency telling him he needed to come in for questioning, without saying why.

The three men are journalists in Pakistan, considered one of the most dangerous places in the world for this profession. But even by Pakistans standards, things have gotten worse, according to journalists, Pakistani and international human rights activists, and advocacy groups.

In addition to attacks from militants or criminals, Pakistani journalists are also facing threats from government agencies or the military itself.

Journalists are not threatened from one side alone, they are threatened by drug mafia, they are threatened by political gangs. They are also threatened by religious extremists, said Asma Jehangir, a human rights lawyer and the director of Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. They are threatened by the military. They are also threatened by people who are deeply (involved) in corruption, but when it comes to the extremist elements, governments are very reluctant to move because they themselves are afraid of them.

Elahi, a determined investigative reporter in northwestern Pakistans Haripur, is just the latest example. The father of five, including a daughter born just 20 days earlier, was killed on June 11 while waiting for a bus a few hundred meters from his home.

Local journalists turned Elahis funeral into a protest, carrying his body through the streets and stopping traffic to demand that the killers be brought to justice, according to Zakir Hussain Tandi, president of the Haripur Press Club.

But impunity and a lack of prosecution has characterised many of the attacks on journalists in Pakistan. Elahi, who was bureau chief of an Urdu language newspaper and sister television station, was the fourth journalist killed in Haripur district in the last three years. All but one of the murders has gone unsolved.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) says 60 journalists and 10 media workers have been killed in Pakistan since 1992.

Elahis Facebook page featured his relentless reporting against political corruption. One of the countrys largest television news channels to feature one of his stories.

We think his death is probably related to journalism, said Tandi of the press club. Lots of people didnt like his investigations, the drug mafia, corrupt politicians, car thieves. He wrote about them all.

Pakistani journalists and social media activists have been detained, often by intelligence agencies, tortured according to some who were released, and threatened with blasphemy charges, which carry the death penalty and routinely incite mobs of radical extremists to violence.

Last week, a social media activist was sentenced to death for allegedly posting an item deemed insulting to Islam.

That sentence sends a threatening message to all ... causing fear and leading to self-censorship, Steven Butler, Asia director of the CPJ, said in an email. Its clear that authorities  including investigative authorities, prosecutors, and the military  are keeping a close eye on journalists and ready to act when red lines are crossed.

Last month, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan ordered a crackdown on those ridiculing the Pakistan Army on social media (to protect) the prestige, reputation and goodwill of the armed forces.

On May 18, Taha Siddiqui, Pakistans correspondent for France 24 TV, received a threatening call from someone claiming to represent the counter-terrorism wing of the Federal Investigation Agency , ordering him to come in for questioning. Siddiqui, who is also bureau chief of the World Is One News website, is an outspoken critic of Pakistans military and intelligence agencies.

My work is in the public domain, Siddiqui asked. What does counter-terrorism have to do with journalism, with free speech?

Siddiqui phoned colleagues for advice and stopped answering his door. He eventually spoke to Jehangir, the human rights lawyer, who advised him to file a petition demanding to know why he was being investigated. Siddiqui, who didnt go in for questioning, has already made at least one court appearance and was told by the FIA that he was being investigated because of his critical stories about the military.

On May 30, Rana Tanveer, a correspondent for the English-language daily newspaper, The Express Tribune, found death threats spray painted on his home in eastern Lahore saying he would die for writing stories about the plight of minorities in Pakistan  particularly Ahmedis, reviled by mainstream Muslims who label them as heretics because they believe in a messiah who arrived after the Prophet Muhammad.

Pakistan has officially declared them non-Muslims, making it a crime for Ahmedis to identify themselves as Muslims. Dozens are facing charges.

That was shocking for me, said Tanveer who went to the police, which didnt register a case but instead advised him against filing a formal complaint, saying it would enrage the radicals who had threatened him.

Tanveer has received several such threats over the years; even his landlord had been warned against renting to him because of his coverage of religious minorities

On June 9, Tanveer was riding his motorcycle after meeting a colleague from the Pakistan Union of Journalists to decide how to deal with the threats when a speeding car slammed into him and sent him crashing to the pavement. He suffered a fractured leg and believes it was no accident.

Today, he is in hiding with his family, unprotected by police and unsure when he can return to his job.

Jehangir said she believes the government crackdown is being done at least partially at the behest of Pakistans military.

They think that the image of Pakistan is being destroyed by the word getting out of here, she said. Now, if you stop picking up people, stop torturing people, the image will improve, but dont shoot the messenger.
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Indians will now be able to visit Australia more conveniently after the government announced online visitor visa facility for them from July 1 to cash in on the rising popularity of the country as a holiday destination.



In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indians.



According to the DIBP, with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, there has been a significant rise in demand for Australian visas in India.



Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Alex Hawke said the online application option would make applying for Australian visitor visas easier and ultimately enhance the visitor experience for Indian citizens.



"Indian nationals wishing to visit Australia will soon be able to apply for a visitor visa in a more convenient and accessible manner," Hawke said.



"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," he said.



The move comes amid hundreds of complaints from Indians wishing to travel to Australia and facing inordinate delays in obtaining visitor visas.



Online lodging will offer benefits such as accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the department's ImmiAccount portal.



Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible.
The BJP on Monday picked up Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its nominee to contest the July 17 presidential election.



The BJP parliamentary board, at its afternoon meeting which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP chief Amit Shah among other senior party leaders, shortlisted Kovind, a non-Jatav Dalit from Uttar Pradesh, from a list of probables to contest for the post of President of India.



Modi's move is likely to see a split in opposition ranks, as the 71-year-old lawyer politician will be second Dalit president if he gets elected as the NDA nominee. K R Narayanan was the country's first Dalit president. The BJP's surprise decision on the candidature has caught opposition in a bind.



Party leaders said in Kovind the BJP has not only been able to convey a social message but found a non-controversial educated leader to fit into the constitutional post. In Patna, Bihar chief minister and JDU leader Nitish Kumar called on the governor and heaped praise on Kovind's "exemplary work" and "impartiality". Similarly, BSP leader Mayawati said she cannot be "negative" about a Dalit candidate put up by the BJP. Both Kumar and Mayawati, however, stressed they will take a final call on supporting a candidate after opposition parties' meeting on Thursday.



Barring Shiv Sena, there is a consensus among almost all the NDA allies on Kovind's candidature. The BJP's candidate is merely a vote bank politics, Shiv Sena president Udhav Thackeray said in Mumbai, making it clear his reservation over ruling party's choice.



Before Shah announced the decision at a press conference at party's Ashoka Road headquarter, Modi spoke to Congress top leaders Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh to seek their support for the BJP's candidate. He also talked to NDA ally TDP's chief Chandrababu Naidu, Tamil Nadu CM E Palaniswamy and TRS boss K Chandrashekhar Rao. Naidu, Rao, BJD and YSR Congress chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy have announced their support for the NDA in the election.



Earlier, Shah told reporters that Kovind will file his nomination on Friday - a day before the PM begins his two-day visit to United States. The result for replacement of President Mukherjee would be declared on July 20 which is four days before his term comes to an end.



"I am sure Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised," Modi tweeted reemphasizing the party and government's commitment towards empowerment of the have-nots.



The Bihar governor on his part thanked "the people of Bihar for their support" in Patna and arrived in Delhi to meet Modi in the evening. Accepting his nomination, Kovind said he will reach out to his electors -- MLAs and MPs -- and all political parties to seek their "blessings" for the Presidential poll.



Prior to becoming governor in 2015, Kovind, a graduate in commerce and law, was a former president of the BJP Dalit Morcha. He had also served as party's national spokesperson, had two stints in Rajya Sabha and practiced in Delhi high court and Supreme Court in the past.



The BJP president said there has been no discussion on the names for vice president's election with the tenure of incumbent Hamid Ansari expiring on August 10.
Protesters today blocked the national highway 31A at some places in Darjeeling district to protest the death of three GJM activists on Saturday.



Protesters blocked the NH 31A at some places in the district, official sources said today.



The 92 km long NH 31A connects Sevoke in Darjeeling district to Gangtok and is considered the lifeline of Sikkim. Around 30 km of the highway passes through West Bengal.



Sikkim government sources in Gangtok said they had yesterday requested their West Bengal counterpart to provide security to vehicles passing through Darjeeling district in NH 31A in view of the GJM agitation.



The West Bengal government had assured them that security would be provided to vehicles going to Sikkim or coming from Sikkim and police would carry out extensive patrolling in the highway, the sources said.
Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed and his four aides will have to celebrate Eid in custody as Pakistan's Lahore High Court today deferred its verdict till July 3 in their detention case.



"As a division bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan today held the court to announce the verdict a government law officer requested it (bench) to defer it as the deputy attorney general was not present in the court," a court official told reporters outside the courtroom.



Accepting the governments request, the bench deferred the announcement of its verdict in Saeeds house arrest case till July 3, the official said.



The court official gave no further reason for deferring the announcement. "The bench will again sit on July 3 and announce the verdict in Saeeds case," he added.



The court had reserved the decision on June 7 after the Punjab government law officer submitted a reply and Saeed's counsel advocate A K Dogar completed his arguments.



The court had declared that it would announce the verdict in Saeeds detention case on June 19.



Saeed and his four close aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been detained on the instruction of the federal government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and security of the country, says the Punjab government.



The government had also submitted the report of the judicial review board on the detention of Saeed and his aides.



In his arguments, Dogar said the government did not produce the petitioners before the judicial review board prior to expiry of their detention period (April 30) and extended their detention on its own.



He said extending detention period without the mandatory approval of the review board is "illegal".



Dogar said the government detained the petitioners to "please India and America only".



He said the courts of the country in past had declared detention of the JuD chief illegal as government failed to prove its charges against him. He prayed to the court to set aside the detention of the petitioners for being unconstitutional.



Earlier, the three-member review board headed by Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan of the Supreme Court had reserved its verdict on the detention of Saeed.



Saeed last month had appeared before the review board and told it that he had been detained by the Pakistani government in order to "stop him for raising voice for Kashmiris".



The federal interior ministry rejected his arguments and told the board that "Saeed and his four aides have been detained for spreading terrorism in the name of Jihad".



On April 30, detention of Saeed and his four aides was extended by the Punjab government for another 90 days under preventative detention under 11 EEE (I) and 11D of Anti- Terrorism Act 1997.



The Punjab government on January 30 had put these five under house arrest in Lahore under the Second Schedule of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.
A day after the arrest of five fishermen by Lankan Navy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami urged the Prime Minister to take up the issue personally with the highest authorities in Sri Lanka and to bring the apprehensions at high seas to an immediate halt.



Chief Minister also asked Modi to direct the Ministry of External Affairs to secure the immediate release of 16 fishermen and 136 fishing boats including the five fishermen and their one mechanised fishing boat apprehended on June 18 without any delay.



"It has been reported that 5 fishermen from Tamil Nadu who set out in a mechanised fishing boat for fishing on June 17 from Mandapam fishing base of Ramanathapuram District after a 61 day long fishing ban, were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy, while fishing in their traditional waters in the Palk Bay, in the early hours of June 18 and taken to Karainagar, Sri Lanka", he pointed out.



Stating that the repeated arrest and prolonged incarceration of our fishermen create unrest among the fishermen community of Tamil Nadu, Palaniswami requested the Centre to undertake a strong diplomatic stand so as to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.



"My Government reaffirms its commitment to finding a pragmatic working solution and had initiated several measures with the support of Government of India", he said adding "this necessitates an urgent intervention at the highest level of Sri Lankan administration to avert these arrests of our fishermen and to release and return the fishing boats and equipment of our fishermen in a refurbished condition so as to win the confidence of our fishing community".
Leaders of Oppostion parties will meet on Thursday to chart out their response to BJP selecting Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind, a Dalit, as the NDA candidate for the Presidential election.



Kovind's candidature has also spurred fence-sitters TRS, AIADMK to declare support for the NDA candidate.



The Left parties and the RJD were keen to field a candidate to deny the BJP a walkover in the presidential elections, but other parties including the Congress and the NCP had chosen to wait for the NDA to announce its nominee.



A meeting of opposition parties is scheduled on June 22 to decide on the presidential election, JDU leader Sharad Yadav told reporters here.



Former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi, former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar are considered as probable presidential candidates from the joint opposition.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswamy and informed them about Kovind's candidature.



I am sure Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised, Modi said.




This is the second incident this month of molestation in an auto-rickshaw in the district.





The 17-year-old victim, a resident of Sonarpada in Dombivli, was walking towards home from her classes on June 12 at around 6 pm when the two men dragged her into the auto- rickshaw and drove away, Thane police PRO Sukhada Narkar said.





The man sitting on the back seat allegedly molested the girl and when she raised an alarm, he shut her mouth, Narkar said.





As the rickshaw moved ahead, the girl spotted her brother and tried to reach out to him. However, the auto-rickshaw driver drove away, the victim said in her complaint filed on June 17, she said.





Later, as the rickshaw slowed down, the girl jumped out and managed to save herself, police said.





Based on the complaint, the accused -- auto-rickshaw driver Maunsingh Rajendra Singh (20) and co-passenger Dhirendra Mehta (26), a tempo driver by profession -- were arrested yesterday, the official said in a release.





They have been booked under IPC sections 354(a) (sexual harassment), 363 (kidnapping) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, police added.





Earlier on June 7, a 23-year-old woman was molested by a male co-passenger in a shared auto-rickshaw and then thrown out at an isolated spot on Pokhran Road in the city at around 9.30 pm.





The co-passenger and the auto driver were later arrested.





In August 2014, a 24-year-old software professional, had suffered serious injuries, when she jumped from a moving auto rickshaw in Thane after the driver allegedly tried to abduct her.

Police have arrested two persons, including an auto-rickshaw driver, for allegedly abducting and molesting a teenage girl in a vehicle in Dombivli here.


As per the poll promise, the late former chief minister J Jayalalithaa ordered the closure of 500 liquor shops after taking over the power.



Similarly, after Jayalalithaa's death, chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, who won the trust vote on the floor of the House and assumed office, ordered the closure of 500 more liquor shops.



When Palaniswami took over the post of chief minister, the State had about 6,000 liquor shops.



It was reduced to 5,500 shops when he order the closure. Adding to the woes, Tamil Nadu government was forced to close about 3,500 liquor shops along the State and National Highways after the Supreme Court's order.



Despite the closure of 1,000 liquor shops after AIADMK government came to power for continuous second time in 2016, the sales of liquor touched all time high of nearly Rs 27,000 crore in 2016-17.Prohibition and Excise minister P Thangamani told the House on Monday that in 2016-17 the government earned Rs 6,248.17 crore through excise revenue and Rs 20,747.08 through VAT sales tax through liquor sales.The total liquor sale touched Rs 26,995.25 crore in 2016-17, an increase of about 4.5% compared to previous year's figure of Rs 25,845.58 crore. Liquor sales in Tamil Nadu is the second highest money earner after tax collection.




Carrying black flags, protesters, especially the youth, marched on the streets of Chowkbazar area shouting slogans against the state government and the chief minister.





Protesters also burnt effigies of Banerjee and vowed to continue their fight for Gorkhaland.





"Three of our activists were killed. We are ready to give our lives but will not stop protesting till we get Gorkhaland," Sirish Pradhan, a GJM worker, said.





Several small processions were taken out by GJM activists in various parts of Darjeeling.





Internet services remained suspended for the second day today.





According to police sources, the step was taken to stop GJM activists from using the social media to spread "provocative posts".





Security forces patrolled the streets as the situation remained tense on the fifth day of GJM-sponsored indefinite shutdown.





"The situation is still very tense. Since morning there has been no incident of violence. But we are on high alert and are prepared for any eventuality," said a senior police officer.





Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged all concerned parties and stakeholders to attend an all-party meeting called by the state government in Siliguri on June 22 on the prevailing situation in Darjeeling.





She urged the people to maintain peace and said, "Violence cannot be a solution to any problem and only talks can solve it".





Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had appealed to the protesters yesterday not to resort to violence and instead, hold dialogue to resolve any issue.





He said resorting to violence would never help them in finding a solution and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.





GJM expressed their "displeasure" with the Centre and questioned the absence of BJP MP from Darjeeling S S Ahluwalia at the time of crisis.





"The role of alliance partner BJP is very unfortunate and very disappointing. We had expected something positive from the part of the Central government. We feel we are being used as pawns by the Centre and the state," Darjeeling MLA and senior GJM leader Amar Singh Rai said.





GJM is an ally of BJP and it was with the help of GJM that BJP won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat twice in 2009 and 2014.





"We are ready to sit with the Centre anytime. But with the state, the condition would be that they withdraw all forces and allow normalcy to return as a confidence building measure. And we will sit for dialogue with Gorkhaland as the sole agenda," Rai said.





GJM activists had taken out a protest march here yesterday carrying the bodies of two party supporters who, they alleged, were killed in police firing on Saturday.





Police pickets and barricades were placed in front of the government and GTA offices and various entry exit points of the hills while Rapid Action Force (RAF) and a sizable number of women police personnel were also deployed.





Except medicine shops, all others shops and hotels were closed in the hills.

Security forces patrolled the streets in the hills and Internet services remained suspended for the second day today as Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters held protest march here demanding Gorkhaland and burnt effigies of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.


The official liquidator of the Bombay HC submitted drafts of the terms and conditions for sale of Amby Valley properties, which, the court said, would be considered on July 5, the next date of hearing. During the hearing, the court indicated that it would consider the question of interest after the Sahara chief is able to pay the principal amount.







The Supreme Court on Monday warned Sahara chief Subrata Roy that if he is not able to pay balance amount of Rs 710 crore out of the promised sum of Rs 1500 crore to the Sebi by July 4, he would be sent to custody.Money must come. Money must come. If money comes, there is no pleasure in sending contemnor (Roy) to jail. There is simple formula  pay and get away, a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi said.If the balance amount not paid by that date (July 4), we will be compelled to send contemnor to custody...we are sure that situation would not arise, the bench added.The court also expressed its displeasure over Roy's failure to deposit Rs 1500 crore by June 15 as promised on April 27. It reminded Roy's counsel senior advocate Kapil Sibal that he had then assured that if the two cheques to the sum of Rs 1500 crore were not honoured, the contemnor could be sent to custody.Sibal submitted that Roy had already deposited 790.18 crore received after sale of shares in a London hotel. He sought extension of time so that the balance amount of Rs 709.82 crore could be deposited.The bench allowed the plea as Sebi's counsel senior advocate Arvind Datar made no objection to it.The court, meanwhile, declined a plea by Sahara group to sell 87 acres of land in Haridwar in Uttarakhand at less than 38 % of the circle rate. Instead, it directed the Sebi to get the property auctioned by employing a government-approved agency within 15 days at not less than 90 % of the circle rate.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday hailed the nomination of Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA candidate for the post of President and appealed to the opposition parties in the state to support him as he was ''UP's son''.



''It is a matter of pride for the 22 crore people of UP that the NDA has made Ram Nath Kovind its Prez nominee...it is my personal appeal to the opposition parties in the state to support him,'' Adityanath told reporters here.



''There can not be a bigger honour for the Dalits,'' he remarked. Govind hails from dalit community.



Adityanath urged the opposition parties to ''rise above party politics'' and support Kovind in the Prez poll.






Major political parties in both the Telugu states have assured the Prime Minister and the BJP that they would support the candidature of Ramnath Kovind, presidential candidate of the NDA.



According to reports from the Chief Ministers office in Amaravati, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Monday to formally seek support for Ramnath Kovind. CM has praised PM Modi's choice and described Kovind as an intellectual from the Dalit community and deserves the position of president, CMO said.



Nadu as per the advice of the Prime Minister which has dialled West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who is on a three-day visit to Netherlands seeking support for Kovind. TDP sources say that the West Bengal CM has told Naidu that she would take a look at the issue after returning home.



Meanwhile, Prime Minister also personally telephoned Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao and requested his support for the candidature. The PM told the CM As per your suggestion we have decided upon a Dalit Candidate for the Presidential Post and requested CM support for the Candidate. According to a statement, Rao immediately consulted the party colleagues and conveyed his party support for the Presidential Candidate to the PM.



In another statement the YSR Congress party, the main opposition party in AP also declared its support to Kovind immediately after BJP Chief Amit Shah called YS Jaganmohan Reddy and sought his support. We will be supporting the candidature of Dalit intellectual Kovind, a party press release said.






Nitish, who met Kovind in Raj Bhavan at around 4 pm, said, I personally feel happy that Bihar Governor has been nominated as the NDA presidential candidate. As Chief Minister of the State, I went to congratulate him as its a matter of pride for us that the man holding gubernatorial post here will be the NDA presidential candidate.





When specifically asked whether the JD (U) would support the NDA nominee, Nitish remained non-committal and said, This question is not relevant as of now. I have spoken to Congress president Sonia Gandhi and RJD chief Lalu Prasad and conveyed my feelings to them. He did not elaborate what transpired between him and the other leaders.





However, sources close to him said that Nitish was not averse to Kovinds elevation as Indias President as he enjoyed a very cordial working relationship with Kovind ever since he was appointed Bihar Governor in 2015.





The Opposition plan to field its own candidate for Presidential poll started when Nitish met Congress president Sonia Gandhi in April in New Delhi where he mooted the idea that her party, being the largest outfit, should take a lead on this issue. Nitish suggested she should start with fielding a common Opposition candidate for the presidential election. It was against this backdrop that Sonia convened a meeting on May 26 and invited all the non-NDA parties, including Trinamool and the CPM. However, Nitish skipped Sonias luncheon meeting thereby making tongues wag. Eyebrows were raised further when he had a meeting the very next day with Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had invited Mauritius PM for lunch.





Sources argue that Nitish had since then made up his mind that if a consensus candidate could emerge from within the BJP, whose credentials could not be questioned, the JD (U) may go ahead with supporting the NDA nominee.





When Nitish was with the NDA, he supported UPA nominee Pranab Mukherjee in 2012. This time when he is with the Congress-led Opposition, he could stand by NDAs nominee Kovind, the source told Deccan Herald, dropping ample hint about fissures within the Grand Alliance on this issue.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday neither confirmed nor denied whether the ruling Janata Dal (United) would support Governor Ramnath Kovind as the NDA presidential candidate. The CM, however, dropped some hint that he may eventually back the NDA nominee.
Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin to join hands to produce the F-16 Block 70 in India. The F-16 Block 70 is suited to meet the Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs and this US-Indian industry partnership directly supports India's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in India, a release said.



This F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India with the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter, the release said.



F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, the release added.



"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran said.



"Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems on the F-16 programme. Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make in India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India," Lockheed Martin Aeronautics executive vice president Orlando Carvalho said.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said that an SIT was formed by the district police to probe the incident while one of the accused persons was arrested.





Terming the incident as a 'heinous crime', Kumar told reporters that efforts were on to arrest all the accused persons, two of whom have been identified.





The culprits would not be spared, he said.





The minor girl of Lakhochak village was gang-raped when she had gone out of her home on Friday night to answer the call of nature, Chanan police station in-charge Sunil Kumar Jha, who is a member of the SIT, said.





The accused then took her to nearby Banshipur station, boarded a local train and threw her off the running train at Kiul station, Jha said, adding that her relatives found her lying by the railway tracks next morning.





She was taken to District Sadar Hospital from where she was referred to Patna Medical College and Hospital.





Hospital sources said that she has suffered huge blood loss and a fracture in her pelvic region.





The girl gave a statement from her hospital bed to the police identifying two of the accused.





One of them was arrested yesterday from Lakhochak village, Jha said.





The accused, who claimed he was a minor, was remanded to judicial custody.





The other accused identified by the rape victim was also accused in the murder case of his elder brother's wife last year and was absconding in that case too, Jha said.

The Bihar government today set up a Special Investigation Team to probe into the shocking incident involving a teenage girl, gang-raped by six persons and thrown off a running train in Lakhisarai district.
Will history repeat itself? Fifty years back, it was Dr Zakir Hussain who became the first Muslim President of India in 1967. But more importantly, he was the first Bihar Governor who went on to occupy the top constitutional post in India.



An educationist, Hussain was Bihar Governor from 1957 to 1962 before becoming Indias President in May 1967. However, he had a short stint as Prez since he passed away in May 1969. If the present Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind eventually makes it to Rashtrapati Bhavan, he will be the second Bihar Governor to don the Presidents mantle.



The first Prez Dr Rajendra Prasad was also from Bihar. Born at Ziradei in Bihars Siwan district (now infamous due to Md Shahabuddin), Dr Prasad was president of the Constituent Assembly which was formed to draft the Indian Constitution. Before becoming countrys first Rashtrapati on January 26, 1950, Dr Prasad served as Union Agriculture Minister in Jawaharlal Nehrus Cabinet. Dr Prasad continued as President for 12 consecutive years before demitting office in 1962.



Kovind, who was appointed Bihar Governor as August 8, 2015, will, however, be not able to complete his term here, if he is elected as President in the third week of July. The BJP leader from Kanpur (in UP), who was also partys Rajya Sabha member twice (from 1994 to 2006), had a non-controversial stint as Bihar Governor. A soft-spoken and suave person, Kovind shared a personal rapport with Chief Minister and JD (U) president Nitish Kumar.



Shortly before leaving for New Delhi on Monday evening to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kovind had a one-to-one meeting with Nitish, whose outfit - the JD (U) is one of the Opposition parties mulling over a proposal whether a joint Opposition candidate should be fielded for the presidential poll or not.




Attempts to save his wife from her relatives' attack cost a 25-year-old man his life as he was allegedly beaten to death by them at Mokhavne village in Shahapur in Thane district, police said today.



The victim, identified as Nivrutti Janu Wagh, had gone to save his wife, Aruna Wagh (23), when she was being attacked by her relatives last evening over some petty issue, police said.



While one man his arrested in this connection, Aruna's two sisters-in-law have been booked by the district rural police.



As per the complaint lodged by Aruna (23), the incident took place in her village after she got some sweets from the weekly Sunday market and offered it to her sister-in-law's son.



"On seeing this, her sister-in-law Janibai Prakash Wagh got annoyed and asked the complainant as to why she was talking to her son," Vishal Thakur, DYSP of Shahapur division, said.



"Soon, Janibai called her sister Pinti Tulshiram Wagh and brother Shivaji Kalu Ran and started abusing and beating up Aruna. On seeing his wife under attack, Nivrutti intervened and tried to save her. However, the trio then assaulted him," he added.



The trio also kicked him in his private parts, following which he collapsed on the ground and died on the spot, police said.



His body was sent for a post-mortem and Kasara police under Shahapur division registered an offence under IPC sections 302 (murder), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace).



"Shivaji Ran was arrested in the wee hours today," police said adding that further investigation was on.


Rai, Inspector General of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), had sent a report to the paramilitary force's headquarters and others claiming that two men had been killed in the alleged staged encounter in March in Assam's Chirang district.



Following the complaint, the officer, who was then in charge of the Northeast sector of the force, has been transferred to Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh.



Former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police Ashok Prasad is likely to travel to Assam to look into the case.



Prasad, currently a technical advisor in the Union home ministry, will inquire whether or not the conduct of the officer was within the parameters of the rules, whether he has conducted a "discreet" inquiry on his own and whether or not he exceeded his jurisdiction by preparing the report, which was then shared with higher ups here.



Rai, in his report, had alleged that the encounter carried by a joint squad of security forces in Assam in March was fake and it killed two persons in cold blood claiming they were NDFB ((Songbijit) rebels.

Rai, a 1992-batch IPS officer of Gujarat cadre, said he had conducted a "discreet" inquiry on his own chronicling how a team of the Assam Police, the Army, the CRPF, its jungle warfare unit CoBRA and the border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) conducted the encounter on March 29-30 in Simlaguri area of Chirang district and killed what they called were two insurgents of the banned group NDFB (S).



Senior IPS officer Rajnish Rai, who has lodged a complaint about an alleged fake encounter in Assam, may be examined by Union Home Ministry officials, who have been asked to carry out an internal probe into the matter.Official sources today said that all circumstances and merit of his complaint are being looked into and the officer may be quizzed.In case, the complaint is found to be motivated or false, then a counter case can also be registered against those involved in it, they said.




The state government's report is under examination of the ministry, official sources today said.





Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi has also spoken to the state's chief secretary, who had demanded that two companies -- 250 personnel -- of women paramilitary personnel be sent there, they said.





However, the ministry decided to send only one company, the sources said.





Earlier, the Home Ministry had put on hold the dispatch of 400 additional paramilitary personnel to Darjeeling for want of a report on the situation from the state government.





Ten companies -- about 1,250 personnel -- are stationed in the region marred by violence during the ongoing agitation by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) for a separate state of Gorkhaland.





The sources said tripartite talks with all stakeholders concerned, including the GJM, to resolve the crisis have been deferred and a new date for the same are yet to be communicated to the Home Ministry.





It was reported earlier that the talks were scheduled for today.





Home Minister Rajnath Singh had yesterday appealed to protesters not to resort to violence and instead hold dialogue to resolve any issue.





Resorting to violence would never help in finding a solution, he had said and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.

The West Bengal government has sent a report on the ongoing violence in Darjeeling to the Home Ministry, which has dispatched a company of 125 women security personnel to help restore peace in the hills.
The tiger paced back and forth in its cage, groaning mournfully. A second big cat slept soundly in the corner, while a third stared blankly at the bars. Next to this cage was another containing three more tigers, and after that three more cages: a line of small pens, each holding at least one cat.



The tigers were property of the Kings Romans Group, which operates a casino here, along with hotels, a shooting range, a cockfighting and bullfighting ring, a Chinatown-themed shopping centre, and this zoo. Ten years ago, the Hong Kong-based company signed a lease with the Laotian government to develop this 12-square-mile plot in northwestern Bokeo province, just across the Mekong River from Thailand. Its called the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone.



Conservationists maintain that this zoo is actually a farm raising animals for slaughter, and that it plays a significant role in perpetuating the illegal wildlife trade, swapping tigers with similar operations in Thailand and illegally butchering animals for their bones, meat and parts. Tigers, bears, snakes and countless other species, many endangered, are held on farms throughout Southeast Asia. Operators illegally capture animals in the wild and then pass them off as captive-bred, or breed the animals on site and illegally sell them into the trade.



These facilities are part of a contraband industry whose profitability by some estimates is surpassed only by the global trade in drugs and arms, and by human trafficking. In 2015, Debbie Banks and her colleagues, of the nonprofit Environmental Investigation Agency in London, along with the nonprofit group Education for Nature-Vietnam, reported that meals, medicine and jewellery made from numerous protected species  including tigers, leopards, rhinoceroses, bears and elephants  were openly sold in the special economic zone. Approximately 700 tigers live on farms in Laos.



Thousands more are believed to be kept throughout Southeast Asia, and an additional 5,000 to 6,000 are housed in over 200 breeding centres in China. Fewer than 4,000 of the big cats remain in the wild; farmed tigers now far outnumber total wild populations.



At an international conference on the endangered species trade recently, Laotian government officials acknowledged a growing problem with wildlife farms and committed themselves to closing down the countrys tiger farms. According to the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a treaty to which China and all Southeast Asian nations are signers, tigers are to be bred only for conservation. In Laos and several other Asian countries, however, conservationists have compiled ample evidence that many zoos and farms serve as fronts for commercial breeding.



Not just tigers

Though tigers are the most contentious of Asias farmed wildlife, they are by no means the only species caught up in the industry. An estimated 10,000 bears are legally kept on Chinese farms for their bile, an ingredient in traditional medicine that is collected through a tube permanently implanted in the animals gall bladders, or through a hole in their abdomens. Countless other species  crocodiles, porcupines, pythons, deer and more  are also farmed throughout China and Southeast Asia. Some proponents, including government officials, believe that such facilities should be legal and encouraged, arguing that they relieve pressure to hunt wild animals by satiating demand with captive-bred animals.



Others say there is no evidence to back this assertion. I cant think of any species in Southeast Asia that benefits from commercial captive breeding, said Chris Shepherd, the Southeast Asia regional director for Traffic, a nonprofit wildlife trade-monitoring group. Scott Roberton, the director of counter-wildlife trafficking at the Wildlife Conservation Societys Asia programme, added that the risks associated with legalising trade in farmed tigers and other endangered species are the same as those associated for decades with the ivory trade. Legal trade stimulates demand, confuses law enforcement efforts, and opens a huge opportunity for laundering illegal products, which is why ivory markets are now being closed globally, he said. There just isnt the capacity within these countries to manage a legal trade in a watertight way, Scott said.



Laundering of animals as farmed that were actually caught in the wild is a frequent practice. In Chengdu, China, one-third of 285 bears rescued from bile farms and now living at a rehabilitation centre run by Animals Asia, a nonprofit group, are missing limbs, a sign that they were caught in the wild by snares. A 2008 investigation by Vietnamese officials and the Wildlife Conservation Society found that about half of 78 wildlife farms surveyed regularly launder animals caught in the wild. In 2016, a study of 26 Vietnamese wildlife farms found that all engaged in laundering. The pet trade is also a problem. Indonesia annually exports over 4 million reptiles and small mammals labelled captive-bred  including thousands shipped weekly to the United States. But virtually all are caught in the wild, according to Chris.



Though modern wildlife farming emerged in the 1990s and has only grown in popularity, wild populations of farmed species have continued to plummet, Chris said. Tigers are effectively extinct in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, while just seven to 50 remain in the wild in China. No matter how many tigers are farmed, we still have wild tigers getting killed, he said.



Taking responsibility of wildlife

Heeding these arguments, Laotian government representatives attending a major CITES meeting last September announced their intention to end tiger farming in their country. Even if the authorities move forward with shutting down the farms, what to do with the countrys 700-plus captive tigers is a challenge. Euthanising them would bring unwanted media attention, but releasing them into the wild is not an option. Theres not much prey, and the tigers lack survival skills and have no fear of humans. Yet keeping them is a burden; it costs thousands of dollars a year to feed a single tiger, Debbie said, and tigers can live up to 20 years. In 2002, Vietnam faced a similar dilemma when it made bear farming and bile sales illegal. Fifteen years later, around 1,200 bears still live with their original owners.



Many are kept in horrific conditions  in cages scarcely larger than their bodies, suffering from rampant disease and lacking adequate food and water  and their bile continues to be collected illegally. Animals Asia runs a rehabilitation centre near Hanoi that houses 160 bears rescued from the trade, but the centre has permission to keep only 200 animals. Even if that cap were eliminated, however, the group lacks the funds and space to care for all of Vietnams remaining captive bears. Obviously, we cant do this all ourselves, said Tuan Bendixsen, Animals Asias Vietnam director. The government must take responsibility for their wildlife.



Conservationists believe that international pressure may be crucial to persuading Asian governments to close tiger, bear and other wildlife farms, but that strategys effectiveness is compromised by an awkward fact: an estimated 5,000 tigers are held in backyards, petting zoos and even truck stops across the United States.




The Punjab government on Monday announced waiver of crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh of small and marginal farmers, and a Rs 2 lakh relief for all marginal farmers, irrespective of the loan amount.



The announcement has, thus, paved the way for the eventual total waiver of agricultural debts, which was a major poll promise of the Congress during the Assembly elections in March.



Speaking in the Assembly, Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said the move would benefit 10.25 lakh farmers, including 8.75 lakh cultivators holding up to five acres. The initiative would provide double the relief, when compared to Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, he said.



Amarinder said the decision was based on an interim report of the expert group headed by economist T Haque, which was tasked with suggesting ways to help the states distressed farming community.



He said his government had also decided to take over the outstanding crop loans from institutional sources of the families of the farmers who had committed suicide. The ex gratia for the families of farmers who committed suicide will be raised to Rs 5 lakh from the existing Rs 3 lakh, he said.



For loans raised from non-institutional resources, the government has decided to review the Punjab Settlement of Agriculture Indebtedness Act, 2016, to provide the desired relief through mutual acceptable debt reconciliation and settlement, which shall be statutorily binding on the lender and the borrower, he said.



The government has already constituted a cabinet sub-committee to review the act, he added.




District In-charge Minister B Ramanath Rai upbraiding SP Bhushan G Borase over senior RSS leader Dr Prabhakar Bhat Kalladka seems to be snowballing into a controversy, with BJP Yuva Morcha workers insisting on Rais apology.



Addressing the gathering during protest outside the deputy commissioners office on Monday, Yuva Morcha district unit president Harish Poonja warned of launching an intensified protest if Ramanath Rai fails to tender an apology for dragging Prabhakar Bhat into the issue surrounding the unsavoury incidents at Kalladka and Kanyana.



Strongly condemning the minister for making derogatory comments against Bhat while compelling the SP to arrest him, Poonja called it a deliberate attempt of the minister to appease Muslims ahead of the next general elections. Rai, who is afraid of losing the polls for his shrinking minority vote bank, is out to appease the particular community, he alleged. Poonja also blamed the minister for instigating the recent communal clash at Kalladka, eyeing political gains in view of the election.



He also demanded Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to seek the resignation of his Cabinet colleague.



Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti leader Muralikrishna Hasanthadka warned of a show of strength with thousands of people attending the convention organised in B C Road on June 24. Hasanthadka too wanted the chief minister to sack Rai.



Napping portraits



Making a mockery of Rai, the Yuva Morcha workers displayed portraits of Rai caught napping in the Assembly.



While the placards also had a portrait of Prabhakar Bhat, the slogans were against Rai for making derogatory comments against Bhat and for reprimanding the SP.



VHP protest



Activists of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bajrang Dal staged a road block at PVS Circle on Monday in protest against Rais remarks against Prabhakar Bhat. The protesters shouted slogans against the minister.



They accused the minister of misusing his power. Later, the police arrested all the protesters.


Meera C Saxena, the Chairperson of the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC), has cautioned police against playing mediators in real estate disputes.



Speaking at a workshop on human rights, gender equality and human trafficking and human and environmental rights, organised jointly by the KSHRC, the police, Global Concerns India, and Justice and Care, she made some relevant remarks about increasing property prices.



Equating the system of policemen playing mediators with the gram panchayat system that has ceased to exist, Saxena said: Police offer to mediate in such disputes as according to them justice may be delayed in the event of such cases ending up in courts. Ensuring that no parties are at a loss, they try to maintain a balance and also get a pie of the deal.



She said that when the panchayat system had been replaced with the rule of law to ensure that justice prevails, why should police go for out-of-court settlement. She said that police tend to favour the rich against the poor in land disputes and men against women in domestic discords.



Saxena said police must instil a sense of freedom in people. In the existing scenario, history-sheeters and anti-social elements walk into police stations without any fear, while common and innocent people still fear to knock at the door of police, she said.



Referring to the victims of police atrocities, she said: Most of them say police threaten to frame them in false cases. When police struggle to solve genuine cases, do they need to open false ones?

Referring to sexual assaults on women and children, the KSHRC chairperson stopped short of advocating stringent measures taken by some Muslim countries but did support harsh punishment for the culprits.



Mangaluru Police Commissioner T R Suresh gave a brief account of the steps taken to ensure people friendly policing. He mentioned the weekly phone-in programme, the special juvenile police unit to deal with crimes by minors, the womens help desks at police stations with policewomen as nodal officers, and the cases registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.


BJP district president Mattar Ratnakar Hegde has condemned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for not accompanying President Pranab Mukherjee to the temple town.



The chief minister crossed all barriers of decency in terms of democratic principles. He avoided a visit to the Sri Krishna Mutt in order to continue with his adamant behaviour to not enter the Sri Krishna temple, he added.



Hegde said that the former district in-charge minister Vinay Kumar Sorake should stop his unruly behaviour of using his men to disturb the development works taken up by the BJP-led Yellur Gram Panchayat.



He added that June 21 would be celebrated as Yoga day and the district BJP is organising Yogasana camp on the occasion.



Former Chief Minister Yeddyurappa will arrive in the district on June 23 and address a huge party rally in Karkala in the morning. He will meet the Dalits in Karkala and address their grievances.



He will address the media on his arrival at Udupi and later attend the rally in Udupi where more than 5,000 members are expected to take part. The former minister Aravind Limbavali, Ravi Kumar and the Udupi-Chikkamagaluru parliamentarian Shobha Karandlaje will be the chief guests, said Hegde.


I hope today we can identify priorities and a timetable that would allow me to report to the European Council (summit) later this week that we had a constructive opening of negotiations, added the former European commissioner and French foreign minister, speaking against a backdrop of British and EU flags.



A key issue he did not mention was the EUs bill for Britain to leave, which Brussels estimates at a colossal 100 billion euros. Davis, a prominent tough-talking figure in the Leave campaign, sounded a positive note, saying that while there would undoubtedly be challenging times ahead he wanted a good relationship with the EU. There is more that unites us than divides us, Davis said, referring to the latest reported terror attack overnight in London and the loss of lives in forest fires in Portugal.



We launch negotiations in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends in the future.



European stocks rose partly on optimism about the talks on Monday after months of uncertainty, analysts said. In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasised the unity of the remaining 27 EU countries, who have been alarmed in recent weeks by May's threats to walk out of the talks.



Britain and the European Union finally began formal Brexit negotiations on Monday, vowing to work constructively for a deal despite disarray in London over whether to go for a hard or soft divorce.Almost exactly a year after Britains seismic referendum to leave the bloc, the EUs chief negotiator, Michel Barnier of France, welcomed his counterpart David Davis with a cheery handshake at the European Commission in Brussels.The smiles belied the fact that at stake is not just Britains future but also Europes postwar political order and its place in the world, which could be fatally undermined without an agreement by the March 2019 deadline.We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, Barnier said, citing the rights of EU citizens in Britain and the possible impact on the open border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.
The principal Opposition BJP demanded in the both Houses of the legislature that the government remove Forest Minister B Ramanath Rai from the Cabinet for misusing his power to target senior RSS leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat.



Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Jagadish Shettar said a video had surfaced which purportedly shows Rai directing the Dakshina Kannada SP, Bhushan G Borase, to arrest the RSS leader in the wake of recent clashes at Kalladka. The minister has been caught interfering in the police work. He has directed the officer to file a murder case against Bhat. Rai should not continue as minister (sic), he stated.



In a recent statement to the media, the SP had held drug mafia responsible for the Kalladka clashes. Preliminary investigation has proved that Bhat has nothing to do with the clashes. Though the enquiry is still on, the minister jumped to a conclusion and tried to influence the police, Shettar said, adding that he is ready to submit the video in the form of a CD to the House.



V Sunil Kumar (BJP) accused Rai of being responsible for communal clashes in the district. How can the minister direct the police to conduct the investigation in a particular way? It is an effort by the minister to appease the minority community by targeting pro-Hindu leaders. Rai should be removed as the in-charge minister of Dakshina Kannada district, he demanded.



Vishweswara Hegde Kageri (BJP) said the video was a testimony to the ministers efforts to disturb communal harmony. The entire House should admonish the minister, he said. Congress members, including Agriculture Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, Mohiudddin Bava and Abhayachandra Jain, objected to BJP members, leading to a noisy scene in the House.



Raising the issue in the Upper House, BJPs Tara Anuradha sought Rais immediate resignation.

The government is committing atrocities against BJP and Sangh Parivar leaders in the coastal belt. Rai is misusing his powers. The government is nurturing political enmity and, voices of other political parties are suppressed. Rais action is a new model of terrorism, she charged.



Minister denies charge

Later, Rai denied having directed the SP to take action against any particular individual and said he had only asked the officer to act against those who make inflammatory speeches. He said some members connected to the Sangh Parivar are involved in the murder of local leaders belonging to a minority community.



Inflammatory speeches were responsible for the recent clashes. So, I asked the police to take action against those who make such speeches...



Some members of the Sangh Parivar were arrested in connection with the violent incidents. I have never protected a murderer in my life. I am a secular person and I vehemently oppose religious fanatics, he stated.

DH News Service

Home Minister defends Rai

Home Minister G Parameshwara defended Ramanath Rai, saying that being the district in-charge minister he has responsibility to ensure law and order and communal harmony. Rai instructing the SP is not wrong. But, the police cant arrest anybody based on a ministers direction. The police will have to probe the matter and take action as per the law, he added. Two people were stabbed in the recent violence at Kalladka, which took a communal colour. Bhat had made many provocative speeches in the past. The police had arrested him several times for his involvement in violence.



Currently, there is no evidence about Bhats involvement in the violence. The police are probing the issue, Parameshwara stated.


The number of visitors to the tourism hub of Hampi has seen a year-on-year dip with 5.35 lakh tourists in 2016-17 against 6.73 lakh in 2015-16. The numbers include 40,188 foreigners in 2015-16 and 38,182 in 2016-17.



Many see the reduction as a consequence of the hike in fares from Rs 10 to Rs 30 for local tourists and Rs 250 to Rs 500 for overseas visitors, with effect from April 1 by the Archaeological Survey of India.



Tourists can go to the museum, Vijaya Vittala temple and Lotus Mahal on a single ticket. But the hike in ticket fares has meant that visitors are only going to those monuments where the entry is free, says Gopal, who is working as a tourist guide in Hampi for the last 15 years.



Many times people come in hordes of 80 to 100 in lorries or tractors from different parts of the state. It is often not possible for them to pay the fares in bulk. They go to hillocks nearby from where they get a panoramic view of the heritage structures or take a look at them from a distance. Among the foreign visitors, not all are financially sound. Those from African countries are usually from poorer backgrounds and cannot afford to pay the fares. Hence, some of them skip Hampi while visiting India.



Lack of basic amenities like clean drinking water, toilets and changing rooms for women on river beds also dog the place.



An official with the ASI said increase in ticket fares was not the only reason for the fall in footfall. Fares have been increased at all monuments maintained by the ASI, the official said.



The official also said steps have been taken to attract more tourists, like opening the monuments for visitors at 6 am, instead of 8 am. He expressed hope that the measure would attract more visitors in future.

DH News Service
A 24-year-old woman has complained to police that she was molested by an unidentified man in Jeevan Bima Nagar, east Bengaluru, in the early hours of Sunday.



On Saturday night, the woman and her two friends, including a man, went to MG Road for partying. After staying there for sometime, they went to Jeevan Bima Nagar to visit another pub. Around 2.30 am, they decided to return to Koramangala where they live as paying guests.



They were waiting for a cab near the Jeevan Bima Nagar bus stand when a motorbike rode up on them.



The pillion rider came to one of the women and kissed her on the cheek. The woman and her friends raised an alarm, forcing the men to ride off.



Ruckus at police station



The three, who were all drunk, went to the jurisdictional Jeevan Bima Nagar police station and caused a ruckus. One of the women even sat on the table of a police officer and demanded that the culprits be arrested immediately. Policemen pacified the woman and her friends, and registered a complaint.

The woman, who was said to be molested, hails from Bihar and works for a private company. The complaint was filed by her friend, Karthik.



The motorcyclists were wearing black T-shirts, the trio told the police. Police suspect the motorcyclists to be from a nearby slum and have launched a manhunt for them.


Police have arrested members of an inter-state gang in connection with a theft at a temple in Bharathinagar and recovered Rs 22 lakh worth of gold and silver ornaments from them.



The arrested are Shravan Singh (25), Eshwarlal (26), Praveen Kumar (27), Hariji Ram (23), all from Rajasthan and Bharath Sharma (34) of Mumbai. The police are yet to arrest one more member identified as Jithendra of Mumbai.



The Viveknagar police, while interrogating a habitual offender, got a tip-off about the theft at a Jain temple two months ago. They shared the information with the Bharathinagar police and a special team was formed to probe the case.



The police were told that the theft was committed by a labourer hired to lay granite slabs at the temple. Around 30 labourers have been working at the Munisuvrat Swami Jain temple, which is being renovated, over the past two months, said Ramesh Chand Bohra, temple treasurer.



One of the workers, Shravan Singh, the prime suspect studied the temple in detail using his proximity with the temple authorities supervising his work. He also managed to get a set of duplicate keys of the temple, a few days before the theft on April 16. As Singh was getting married in the last week of April, he had planned to loot the temple, flee to his native, and start a new life. Singh roped in his friends, three from Rajasthan and two from Mumbai and fled to Mumbai to sell the booty.



The Bharathinagar police, who initially questioned Singh, had given him a clean chit. The temple authorities told the police that duplicate keys of the temple had gone missing and they were handed over to them by Singh. They did not suspect that Singh could have stolen the keys to make another set of them.



The police learnt that the gang had a dacoity case in Rajasthan and was out on bail, after which Singh came to Bengaluru to work as a labourer.
Members of the Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016 (Rera) Association along with many aggrieved citizens are planning to knock the doors of the Karnataka High Court against the government for delay in notifying Rera rules.



They said Rera should have come into effect by end of May, but it is already mid-June and there are no signs of formulating and notifying the rules.



M S Shankar, convenor, Rera-Karnataka chapter, said : We are going to wait till July 1 and after that file a legal case.



He said as per Section 20 of Rera, within one year of the notification of the Act, the appropriate government should appoint the real estate regulatory authority, formulate rules and notify them. But so far this has not happened. Going by the time line, the authority should have been in place by April 30 or May 1, 2017. The central government had notified Rera with effect from April 30, 2016.



Since time has lapsed and none of the authorities has been formed, legal action can be taken against the state government officials. Many meetings have been held between government officials, real estate organisations, builders and the association. But the government has failed to act, he said.



Many organisations are joining hands against the government. They include aggrieved site allottees of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA). They say it has been so many years since BDA formed layouts, but it has not yet provided infrastructure like sanitary and water lines. Members of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout Site Owners, Residents Association too have taken up cudgels against the government and BDA. Some members said presently, there is no way for complaints to be filed against the irregularities of BDA.



In order to save officials from criminal cases under Rera, the government is delaying implementation of the Act, said Naveen K, a BDA site allottee.
Work on the first-ever Kannada film based on major incidents in the career of an IAS officer couple will be launched on June 24.



The film  Shalini IAS, is an adaptation of  IAS Dampatigala Kanasu, a Kannada book published in 2015, by Shalini Rajneesh and her husband Rajneesh Goel. Both are Karnataka cadre IAS officers.



The film, produced by 1+1=11 production house, will be directed by Nikhil Manjoo, a national award winning Kannada film director. The 130-minute film is set for release for Sankranthi in 2018.



Shalini IAS will also be the first-ever Kannada movie to be shot in Pakistan, if all goes according to plan. Shalinis ancestors hail from Pakistan. The movie director plans to use his Pakistan contacts to obtain permission for the shooting.



Shalinis ancestors moved to Indian Punjab leaving behind all their property in Pakistan after partition. Shalinis father P P Chhabra spent his childhood days at a rehabilitation centre in Punjab and went on to become an IAS officer.



We plan to shoot the initial days of Chhabra in Pakistan, says Manjoo, whose movie Reservation, won the best Kannada film award at the 64th National Film Awards.



Manjoos two films were screened at Dadapeer International Film Festival, Lahore. The film highlights two major things. First, like Chhabra, anybody could become an IAS officer through hard work. Second, human life could be extended by organ donation. Chhabra had pledged his body about five years ago in Faridabad. He died on March 17, 2017. Shalini donated her fathers body.



She had also donated some organs of her mother. Of the 100 people who register for organ donation, only 10 donate. We want to highlight how organ donation helps others, Manjoo added.



Shalini IAS is a combination of elements of art and commercial movies. Besides four songs, the movie will have some fiction needed for a commercial flick. Yana Nagaraj will play Shalini while four male artistes have been short-listed for Rajneeshs role. Sandalwood has seen many movies loosely based on the lives and incidents of bureaucrats, mainly police officers. There were two films loosely based on the life and career of retired IPS officer H T Sangliana and one film on Kempaiah.



Four films Amanusha (1988), Circle Inspector (1996), Deadly Soma-1 (2005) and Myna (2003) were based on real life incidents in the careers of retired additional superintendent of police B B Ashok Kumar. A few works of former IPS officer Vijay Sasanur have been filmed in Kannada some of which were big commercial hits.


State-owned aviation major, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recharged 36 borewells and 281 wells, built 50 water pools and planted 50,000 saplings in the region that covers Tavarekere, Thyamagondlu, Mondigere and Teppadabeguru mini-watersheds in Bengaluru Rural district.



Implemented as part of HALs Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, the project benefited 35 villages, according to HAL Chairman and Managing Director T Suvarna Raju. Raju formally handed over the projects under Kumudvathi River Rejuvenation to the village panchayats of the district.



These projects, he said, will help in reviving dried natural water resources and the natural habitat of the region. As many as 281 boulder checks were also carried out as part of the project.



Kumudvathi is a tributary of River Arkavathi and originates from Shivagange Hills in Nelamangala taluk of Bengaluru Rural district. Both Arkavathi and Kumudvathi flow into Tippagondanhalli reservoir which was serving 30% to 40% water requirements of Bengaluru, three decades ago.



Scanty inflow



Currently, the inflow from River Kumudvathi is scanty due to degradation of natural vegetation, soil erosion and over-exploitation of groundwater. The catchment area covers about 460 sq km, 278 villages and is classified into 18 mini-watersheds for rejuvenation work.



HAL, as part of its CSR, has been sponsoring rejuvenation work of Mini Watersheds through International Association of Human Values (IAHV). Rejuvenation helps in revival of defunct borewells and open wells, besides protecting drinking water sources. Agro-horticulture developments are benefited, besides increasing natural vegetation and aiding eco-hydrological conservation.


Rowdy Nagaraj and his two sons Gandhi and Shastri were taken into police custody by the Rajagopalnagar police on Monday.



They have been taken into custody over kidnap and extortion of an industrialist in Rajagopalnagar, north Bengaluru, and their involvement in the demonetised currency exchange racket.



A total of 11 cases have been registered in which four cases are from Malleswaram sub-division including Srirampuram, Nandini Layout and Rajagopalnagar police stations. The four inspectors have been entrusted with probing each case separately.



The Srirampuram police had earlier taken the three into custody and after interrogation, returned them to judicial custody.



The Rajagopalnagar police on Monday took custody of the fathers and sons through body warrants.

During interrogation, the police found that Nagaraj had married thrice. His first wife died and his second and third wives live in Srirampuram.



But Nagaraj mostly lived with his second wife and used to visit his third wife only occasionally, the police sources said.



When the police brought his third wife in front of him during interrogation, Nagaraj told the police she was their maid. But when the police confronted him with documents, he admitted that she was his wife.



Nagaraj has still not given out any information about his involvement in kidnapping, extortion and his involvement in the currency exchange racket following the demonetisation.



Whenever Nagaraj is questioned about it, he replies and reacts like a mentally unstable person and collapses. Later, he gets up and behaves normally till we start questioning him again about the cases, a police officer said.


By Michael Slezak and Nick Evershed

7 June 2017

(The Guardian)  Australias carbon emissions jumped at the start of 2017, the first time they have risen in the first few months of a year for more than a decade, according to projections produced exclusively for the Guardian.Emissions in the first three months of the year normally drop compared with the previous quarter, driven by seasonal factors and holidays. But in something not seen in since 2005, emissions rose in the first quarter of 2017 compared with the last quarter of 2016 by 1.54m tonnes of CO2, according to the study by consultants NDEVR Environmental. The rise was driven by increases in emissions from electricity generation.Government data on greenhouse gas emissions is released up to a full nine months after the end of a quarter. So NDEVR Environmental replicate the government data for the Guardian, releasing it about a month after the quarter finishes.
Voters in Georgia will settle the closest watched congressional race in the country Tuesday, a special election to replace former Rep. Tom Price, a Republican now serving as secretary of health and human services. And U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos has played a surprising supporting role.

Last week, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee sent out a fundraising email with the subject line, DeVos STEALS Georgia.

The email noted that DeVos family is spending TENS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS to make sure that the Democratic candidate, Jon Ossoff, loses his bid to take over the open seat in this GOP-leaning congressional district.

The email asks for a $19 donation to help elect Democrats like Ossoff, a former congressional staffer.

The DCCC cited more than $10,000 in donations to Karen Handel, Ossoffs GOP opponent, from DeVos family members , including her father-in-law, Richard DeVos Sr., a founder of Amway. Of course, plenty of other people are donating to Ossoff and Handel. The Georgia race is, after all, the most expensive in House

race history.

Betsy DeVos herself has donated millions to GOP candidates and causes. But she promised to take a break from political contributions while serving in the cabinet.

This isnt the first time that Democrats have tried to fundraise off of DeVos , whose disapproval rating was above 52 percent, the highest of any Trump administration official , according to a poll released in March.

Even before the education secretary won Senate confirmation, a campaign to re-elect Wisconsins Sen. Tammy Baldwin, one of 10 Democratic senators facing re-election in 2018 in a state Trump won, sent out a fundraising email, asking for $5 or $10 donations to help strengthen our opposition to DeVos nomination.

And the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee sent around an email asking voters to sign a petition and take a stand against DeVos. The email promised the petition would be delivered to Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., the majority leader.

The DCCC is the House campaign arm, which means itand House memberscouldnt have done much to stop DeVos from getting confirmed. But the petition could help the DCCC identify potential grassroots activists and even donors.



Democratic candidate for Georgias 6th congressional district Jon Ossoff poses for a portrait in Atlanta.



--John Bazemore/AP



Republican candidate for 6th congressional district Karen Handel campaigns in Tucker, Ga., on June 17.



--David Goldman/AP



Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 .
An education advocacy group based in Connecticut has profiled five early childhood education providers around the country in an effort to learn how to improve ECE in its own state.

The study found four common threads among the programs it studied, including effective strategies for recruiting and retaining a high-quality workforce, an intentional focus on learning and development, a wide variety of structures, and a reliance on data to help drive continuous improvement.

The profiles were developed by Connecticut Coalition for Achievement Now, or ConnCAN . The organization studied a diverse group of successful programs, including two community-based providers, two charter schools and a traditional public school. The schools had differing student body compositions and different sources of funding. It chose to focus on out-of-state programs becuse researchers were not able to find any Connecticut programs with independent evaluations of their impact on students.

What we wanted to do was to spotlight what five very different but all high-quality early childhood programs looked like in order to spark a conversation around what high-quality programming in Connecticut can and should look like, said Jennifer Alexander, ConnCAN CEO . Connecticut needs a system that embraces quality in the many forms in which it can come.

The report, Lessons from the Field: Profiles of Quality Early Childhood Education Programs and Implications for Connecticut , examined:



Acelero Learning, a community-based provider in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Nevada

Apple Tree Early Learning, a charter school in Washington, D.C.

Boston Public Schools, a traditional public school in Boston

CAP Tulsa, a community-based provider in Tulsa, Okla.

City Garden Montessori, a charter school in St. Louis, Mo.

For each program, ConnCAN documented evidence of effectiveness, program design, and areas for growth. The information about each program came from publicly available information online and through interviews with program staff. The report is a follow-up to a report ConnCAN released in 2015 that covered early childhood education in Connecticut and the current state of young children there.

Takeaways for Connecticut

Based on these case studies, ConnCAN is making several policy recommendations, including that the state provide more funds for early childhood education programs so that teacher salaries become competitive and that the state create alternative pathways for teachers with bachelors degrees to earn early childhood credentials.

The nonprofit is also recommending annual, evidence-based assessments to ensure that students needs are being met and that early childhood education providers be required to use age-appropriate, evidence-based curricula.

But meeting some of these goals may be difficult as the state continues to struggle with financial difficulties.

Clearly, Connecticut is a state that is experiencing fiscal challenges, said Alexander. There are very limited public dollars to invest in any programming right now including early childhood education, and as the state moves forward making sure that whatever scarce dollars we do invest are invested wisely in helping high-quality programs continue and serve more kids... will be more important than ever.

Photo: A Cap Tulsa classroom in Tulsa, Okla., awaits preschool students, courtesy Cap Tulsa
Doctors have been warned to watch the type of language they use around people with diabetes as it could impact their health.

A specialist committee board which presented a report at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 77th Scientific Sessions, said healthcare teams should try and avoid words like uncontrolled and non-adherent.

The Joint Consensus Statement on the Use of Language report also said that many people with diabetes do not like being called diabetic.

Dr Susan Guzma, who is a clinical and research psychologist at the Behavioral Diabetes Institute in San Diego and wrote the report, said: Language conveys meaning and can reflect bias that will affect outcomes, even when youre not aware of it.

If youre talking about a patient as non-compliant, even before you go into the room, I guarantee you that they feel that from you, even if youre not calling them that to their face.

The committee has released a series of suggestions for doctors to use when treating people with diabetes. It is recommended they try to use neutral and non-judgmental language which are based on facts and words that are respectful and hopeful.

When talking about a persons blood glucose levels the words good, bad, or poor should also be avoided and instead safe and unsafe levels should be explained. They have also suggested diabetes healthcare teams should try to use language that encourages collaboration and find words that are free from stigma.

Jane Dickinso, a certified diabetes educator and nurse at Teachers College Columbia University in New York and committee chair, and Melinda Maryniuk, director of clinical education for the Joslin Diabetes Center in Bosto, presented Why Language Matters at the American Diabetes Association on Sunday, alongside Guzman.

Maryniuk said: Its not about being the word police. Think about the meaning, and the whole patient, and the conversation youre having with them.
Human beings have been envisioning life on Mars for many years, and colonising the red planet has been every space exploration agencys wet dream. India was the first country to successfully reach Mars with its Mangalyaan mission, US President Donald Trump wants NASA to put a man on Mars by 2033, scientists have also discovered crucial evidence of water - the all sustaining source of life - on the surface of Mars. And, somewhere in the middle of a worldwide race to reach and inhabit our closest planetary neighbour, Elon Musk has formulated a plan to transport a million human beings to Mars over the course of a Hundred years and 10,000 interplanetary voyages. Heres how the Tesla and SpaceX founder hopes to achieve the next giant leap for mankind.

Making Humans a Multi-Planetary Species - This is the title for Musks Mars plan, a detailed summary of his presentation at the 67th International Astronautical Congress, held in September last year. Musks SpaceX is already planning a Moon trip for two in late 2018, and the company aims to make humans an interplanetary species to escape an eventual doomsday event on Earth which may occur some day in the future.

The argument for Mars

In his paper, Musk makes multiple arguments in favour of Mars being the best choice for an Earth 2.0 scenario. He writes that Venus could have been an option, provided it wasnt such a high-pressured hot acid bath. Mercury is too close to the Sun for comfort, and the Moon would just be too much of a challenge given its small real estate and lack of atmosphere. Hence, Mars with its 24.5 hour-long days and resource rich topography, is the ultimate choice for the first ever inter-galactic migration from Earth. if we could warm Mars up, we would once again have a thick atmosphere and liquid oceans, claims Musk.

But, what about gravity?

We know Mars does not enjoy a strong natural gravitational pull like our home planet, but Musk thinks that it will be a lot of fun to live on a planet with gravity of about 37 percent of that of Earth. Imagine lifting a vehicle with your bare hands. Get the picture?

"It would cost Rs 1,28,81,000 approximately to score that Mars ticket. The average Indian salary is Rs 7,328 per month."

How much would a ticket to Mars cost?

Musk seems to have closed in on a number when it comes to the cost of travelling to Mars. Using a traditional Apollo-style approach, Musk believes a one-time move to the red planet would cost $10 Billion per person. Taking the Apollo program as an example, the cost estimates are somewhere between $100 and $200 billion in current-year dollars, writes Musk.

However, the Iron-Man of the tech world obviously states that such huge costs are not ideal for creating a self-sustaining civilisation on Mars. So, he suggests another approach of calculating the ticket price to Mars - If we can get the cost of moving to Mars to be roughly equivalent to a median house price in the United States, which is around $200,000, then I think the probability of establishing a self-sustaining civilization is very high. I think it would almost certainly occur. Musk aims to cut this cost by half - eventually.

Just to put things into perspective, if Musks plan is realised, it would cost Rs 1,28,81,000 approximately to score that Mars ticket. The average Indian salary is Rs 7,328 per-month. Guess were staying put on planet Earth.

"If you can only go every 2 years and if you have 100 people per ship, that is 10,000 trips." - Musk

What next?

Musk further details his plans to improve the overall cost of trips to Mars. He proposes fully-reusable transport systems, fuelling spaceships in orbit, producing propellant on Mars, and more such cost-saving ideas. He also describes an architecture for the overall transport system, including the final interplanetary spaceship. The goal is to send at least 100 passengers per ship to Mars and eventually increase the number to 200. According to Musk, The threshold for a self-sustaining city on Mars or a civilization would be a million people. If you can only go every 2 years and if you have 100 people per ship, that is 10,000 trips.

He further explains, Depending upon which EarthMars rendezvous you are aiming for, the trip time at 6 km/s departure velocity can be as low as 80 days. In the distant Future, Musk predicts that the transit time to Mars could be as low as 30 days.

Musk and SpaceX hope to complete the first development spaceship in maybe about 4 years. In his Mars plan, Musk writes, If things go super-well, it might be in the 10-year timeframe, but I do not want to say that is when it will occur. There is a huge amount of risk. It is going to cost a lot. There is a good chance we will not succeed, but we are going to do our best and try to make as much progress as possible.

As far as the immigration of a million souls to Mars is concerned, Musk has set a target of 100 years before a fully-self sustaining civilisation can be formed on Mars. Interestingly, physicist Stephen Hawking had very recently cautioned that we the humans, must leave Earth in the next 100 years. You can read Musks entire Mars Plan here.

Beyond Mars

What after we reign supreme on Mars? Well, Musk suggests humans go planet hopping. For this, he suggests establishing a propellant depot on the asteroid belt or one of the many moons of Jupiter, allowing for Mars-Jupiter flights. Now thats what I call a great galactic itinerary.
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A federal audit has found that Alabama inflated its state graduation rate by improperly including students who earned alternative diplomas, students who hadnt earned enough credit, and, in at least one case, a student who had died.

According to an audit released late last week by the inspector generals office of the U.S. Department of Education , federal officials told Alabama in 2011 and 2012 not to include the alternative diplomas in its graduation-rate count.

Federal rules in effect since 2008 require states to calculate the graduation rate as the number of students who earn a regular diploma four years after entering high school.

But then-state Superintendent Tommy Bice disagreed with the federal directive to exclude alternative diplomas, arguing that they reflected mastery of the states academic standards, so his department factored them in to the graduation rate.

The audit concluded that by including those diplomas, Alabama had improperly inflated its graduation rate between 2011 and 2014. The alternative diplomas, known as Alabama occupational diplomas, were awarded to special education students who chose a curriculum that focused on life skills and work habits because they wanted to find jobs after high school, the audit says.

We found that [the Alabama state department of education]'s system of internal control did not provide reasonable assurance that reported graduation rates were accurate and complete during our audit period, the report said.

Checking records, the inspector generals office found many cases of students who should not have been counted as graduates because they hadnt earned enough credits. In one case, a student had died before earning enough credits, but was still counted.

One of the weaknesses of Alabamas system, the audit says, was that it didnt sufficiently police its districts graduation statistics, believing that it was the districts responsibility to provide correct information to the state, the audit said.

The audit recommends that Alabama develop a suite of new controls over graduation-rate data, including tighter oversight of districts calculations and a written policy for how state-level officials should examine and report the data.

Its now up to the U.S. Department of Education to determine how it will address our recommendations, said Catherine Grant, a spokeswoman for the inspector generals office.

In a May 2 letter of concurrence to the inspector generals office, Michael Sentance, the states current superintendent, enclosed a corrective action plan that outlines the steps the state will take to tighten oversight of graduation-rate calculations at the state and district levels, including review of student transcript information as verification.

When the U.S. Department of Education announced an all-time national graduation-rate high of 83.2 percent in the fall of 2016, Alabama was the state with the third-highest rate , having gained 17 points between 2011 and 2015 . But it acknowledged last December that its graduation rate was inflated.

The inspector generals office is still working on an audit of Californias graduation rate. And it plans an audit of one more states graduation rate, Grant said, but she declined to name the state.
South Korea, one of the world's largest nuclear electricity producers, will scrap plans to add nuclear power plants and also not seek to extend the lifespan of existing plants as it seeks to phase out nuclear power, its new President Moon Jae-in said today. He also vowed to cut South Korea's reliance on coal. South Korea will shut 10 old coal power plants and stop building more coal power plants. Moon campaigned on a programme of cutting South Korea's traditional reliance on coal and nuclear for the bulk of its power, but has not previously commented on the commitment to end nuclear power since being elected in early May. "So far, South Korea's energy policy pursued cheap prices and efficiency. Cheap production prices were considered the priority while the public's life and safety took a backseat," Moon said at a ceremony marking the shutdown of the country's oldest power plant, Kori 1, in Busan, home to South Korea's largest cluster of nuclear power plants. "But it's time for a change." "We will end the nuclear-oriented power generation plan and pave the way for a nuclear-free era," Moon said. "We will withdraw existing plans to build new nuclear power plants and not extend the lifespan of nuclear power plants." South Korea's oldest nuclear reactor Kori No.1 was permanently shut down at midnight on Sunday after reaching the end of its 40-year-lifespan, the first South Korean nuclear power plants to be closed permanently. South Korea has 25 nuclear reactors, supplying about a third of the country's total electricity. During his campaign, Moon vowed to review plans to add new eight nuclear reactors, including the part-completed Shin Kori No 5 and Kori No 6. Moon said he will soon reach a consensus on the Shin Kori No 5 and Shin Kori No 6 reactors after fully considering their construction costs, safety and the potential costs of paying compensation. He also said the government will seek to shut down the country's second-oldest nuclear reactor, the Wolsong No 1, as soon as possible depending on the country's power supply conditions. Since the Kori 1 reactor went online in 1978, the resource poor-country added 24 nuclear power plants to meet rising demand for electricity from rapid industrialization and economic development. Last year, a third of electricity in South Korea was produced from nuclear power plants. Its nuclear power production from 25 nuclear plants in 2016 was the fifth-largest in the world, according to the World Nuclear Association. Public support for nuclear power has been undermined by a local scandal in 2010 over forged certificates for spare parts and the 2011 Fukushima meltdown in neighbouring Japan. The new government plans to increase the use of renewables to 20 per cent of the country's total power generation by 2030. South Korea is also one of the few countries that have exported its nuclear reactor technology, an area once seen by some of its construction companies as a new cash cow. Former President Lee Myung-bak promoted nuclear energy as part of its clean energy strategy and helped local companies win billions dollars of deals to build a nuclear reactor in United Arab Emirates. Recent earthquakes in southeastern South Korea also dented public support in the country that was long believed to be safe from earthquakes. South Korea is also searching for answers on how and where to store spent nuclear fuels permanently. To decommission the Kori 1 reactor, South Korea plans to invest developing its own decommissioning technology and experts in the area. The decommissioning will take at least 15 years and cost 643.7 billion won ($569 million), the energy ministry said.










The Donegal Democrat has been informed of the following deaths:

- Maureen Gallagher, Meenaniller, Derrybeg

- Gracie Duddy, Madavagh, Lettermacaward

- Beatrice McGee, Scotland and Ballintra

- Thomas Pearson, Carrickmagrath, Ballybofey

Maureen Gallagher, Meenaniller, Derrybeg



The death has taken place of Maureen Gallagher, late of Meenaniller, Derrybeg.

Her remains are reposing at her late residence.

Funeral Mass will take place in St Marys Chapel, Derrybeg today, Monday, June 19th, at 11am. Burial afterwards in Magheragallon Cemetery.

Family flowers only. Donations in lieu to the Donegal Hospice c/o any family member or Kieran Roarty, funeral director.

House private from 10pm to 10am.

Gracie Duddy, Madavagh, Lettermacaward

The sudden death has occurred in St James Hospital in Dublin of Gracie Duddy, late of Madavagh, Lettermacaward.

Her remains will be reposing at her late residence from Saturday 17th June.

Funeral Mass is at 1pm on Monday, June 19th, at in St Bridgets Church, Lettermacaward with interment afterwards in the old cemetery.

Rosary both nights at 10.30pm.

House is private from 11pm until 11am and also on the morning of the funeral.

Beatrice McGee, Scotland and Ballintra

The death has occurred of Beatrice McGee Paisley, late of Scotland and formerly of Lisminton in Ballintra.

Her remains are arriving at St Bridgets church Ballintra via Pettigo on Sunday at 8pm, passing through Pettigo at approximately 7:15pm.

Funeral Mass at 11am today, Monday, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Thomas Pearson, Carrickmagrath, Ballybofey

The death has taken place at Letterkenny University Hospital of Thomas Pearson, late of Carrickmagrath, Ballybofey.

Reposing at his late residence.

Funeral leaving from there on Monday, June 19th, at 1.15pm for Service in Stranorlar Parish Church at 2 pm, with interment afterwards in the adjoining churchyard.

Donations in lieu of flowers, if so desired, to Meenglass Parish Church Building fund, c/o any family member.

Family time from 11 pm to 11am and on the morning of the funeral.

Please send death notices to editorial@donegaldemocrat.com. Include a phone number for verification.
The annual Inniskeen Road July Evening Festival takes place next month on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th July in Inniskeen.

This year sees the 50th Commemoration of the death of Patrick Kavanagh

A celebration of the works of the poet and writer, the festival focuses on these works which are rooted in his native Inniskeen landscape.

Working on the family farm in 1930's/1940's Inniskeen, witnessing daily the miracle of creation, Kavanagh began to write of his experiences and became the 'authentic voice of the Irish country poor.

Since his death in 1967, the growing popularity of his work among diverse cultures and age groups have proven the eternity of Kavanagh's magic-fringed everyday world.

The Inniskeen Road July Evening Festival features re-enactments and recitals of the poet's work by actors in period costume. Scenes are dressed as described by Kavanagh.

The hedges of Shancoduff once more become a library for poetry books, horses and men will work the land using period-appropriate farm implements. In short, this will be a feast of Literature, Music, Song, Drama and Storytelling.

For more information, go to www.patrickkavanaghcountry.com
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams TD has said that new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar must bring a fresh approach to the challenges of Brexit and re-establishing the institutions in the North.

Deputy Adams said;

The two immediate challenges facing Leo Varadkars administration are Brexit and re-establishing the institutions in the North.

Citizens living in the North should have the same rights as those living everywhere else on the island, including marriage equality and language rights.

We stressed our view that the Taoiseach must bring a fresh approach.

This means the Irish government meeting their own commitments, including speaking rights in the Dail for Northern MPs, a referendum on Presidential voting rights, and funding for the A5 motorway.

We will make it clear to the new Taoiseach that the Irish Government must assert itself as co-equal guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement and he must secure its full implementation.

Speaking on the issue of Brexit, Michelle ONeill said;

The new Taoiseach had said that he supports special arrangements for the North and the need to respect the vote in the north to remain in the European Union.

He must now follow those words with actions.

We believe that they best way to do this is for the North to be designated special status within the EU. The Taoiseach must build on the Civic Forum to develop a truly all-island approach to Brexit.

Mary Lou McDonald said the government must revisit the appointment of the Attorney General Maire Whelan to the Court of Appeal, saying the appropriate procedures have not been followed.
Goodness is about character - integrity, honesty, kindness, generosity, moral courage, and the like. More than anything else it is about how we treat people. - Dennis Prager

In a surprise ruling this week, Judge Lawrence Moniz found that 17-year-old Michelle Carters words were the contributing cause of Conrad Roy IIIs suicide. She was found guilty of manslaughter in what was called a texting suicide case. This is a story of young lives: one lost and one ruined and two families left with lifetimes of sorrow. The actions of Mr. Roy, following the directions of his girlfriend, raises questions about his story. And hers. And the ongoing state of the mental health system in America.

What was his reality that made him unable to recognize her directions as unacceptable? Why was he receptive to being told to take his own life and following through? What was she thinking, that life was of so little value and unbearable? These are questions. If answered, they can help bring some sort of understanding of the susceptibility of the young and troubled mind.

So, what was his story? Under past circumstances, we might never have known. But, because of the videos and texts, the court got a look into Mr. Roys painful story. A video he made about his depression was included in the New York Times article reporting on the verdict. Ms. Carters story also holds lessons for all of us. She was nowhere near Mr. Roys truck when he took his own life. But, records show that she was virtually present, encouraging his suicidal behavior with her words. The article reports:

She instructed Mr. Roy to get back into the truck, well knowing his ambiguities, his fears, his concerns, Judge Moniz said. This court finds that instructing Mr. Roy to get back in the truck constituted wanton and reckless conduct, by Ms. Carter creating a situation where there is a high degree of likelihood that substantial harm will result to Mr. Roy.

It has become a coming of age ritual for too many children as they find their way through name-calling and bullying while learning how to navigate the world of emotions. It isnt easy and it is tremendously hard if you feel alone. Adults have an essential role as guides and teachers, as listeners, as safe places to go for help. If there is little or ineffective adult intervention, the results can be as severe as in this case. But, even if parents are aware and trying, they, too, often feel alone in the struggle and need support.

Digital Communication Ups the Ante

Talking about others, creating or feeding the rumor mill, deciding who is in and who is out, using disparaging labels for those with differences has moved from hostile words in the hallway or on the playground, to texts and videos that follow you everywhere, with devices that prevent you from escaping. Words and pictures spread in nanoseconds. This raises the stakes for the children and the responsibilities of vigilance for the adults. Harm done to the well-being of children is dramatic and instantaneous. Children can cause not only life-long harm to another, they can actually cause anothers life to end.

The Need for Leaders

In Ms. Carters case, whether incarceration is a suitable answer or not is another issue for another time. Surely, she needs mental health intervention and a judge will decide whether that is included with an incarceration. For her and for Mr. Roy, we can make their experience more than a story of two tragically lost lives by taking the moment to examine the story and to discover those children in our schools and communities who are desperately needing help. If the shooting of a Congressman and the verdict in this trial have anything in common, it is this. We are becoming increasingly aware, we hope, that words matter, have consequences and, for them, we are sometimes held responsible. Leaders of schools and communities, in partnership, might consider:



How do we teach children that words matter?

How do we shifted the culture from Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me to an understanding that, for many of us, Words Can Hurt At Least As Much As Sticks And Stones .

. How do adults listen when a person, young or older, presents words that harm, or reveals that he/she has been the recipient of those words? Will they be ignored or dismissed or will adults across the community reach in to teach appropriate behaviors and support those who have been accosted or affronted?

With all that schools face, it is possible that thinking about these things only arises when a serious problem surfaces. It is also possible that a quick glance across the students ends with a conclusion that this is not a problem here but that is rarely the case. If we are truly committed to educating all students, then it takes only one childs experience to make it everyones issue. The two young people involved in this case were parts of school communities somewhere. They were both suffering before they found each other. When teaching children about words and texts and videos and photos, we must teach the difference between kindness and harmfulness. The business of growing up in these days of social media has higher stakes. Schools and communities must consciously play an important role in supporting children in their journey towards a deeper understanding of right and wrong.

Schools find themselves on the front lines of the mental health crisis. They are on the lines with families who are suffering and communities who have no resources. Too often families become silent and exhausted while communities develop a blind eye and an ear that protects itself by not hearing the cries for help. But, so far, no tragic ending has brought us together as advocates strong enough to get system wide change. Others will debate the lessons of this case for definitions of free speech and of involuntary manslaughter, but we look at the case and see children who lost their way. The results were tragic and every child lost is one too many. We also know that every person on that front line needs reinforcements to carry on. Find each other and hold on, you are helping children and we need you out there. However frustrating it may be, dont give up.....please.

Ann Myers and Jill Berkowicz are the authors of The STEM Shift (2015, Corwin) a book about leading the shift into 21st century schools. Connect with Ann and Jill on Twitter or Email .

Photo by Counselling courtesy of Pixabay.
The 2018 California election will toast the end of a political era in education and give rise to a bloody battle to define public schoolings future.

The Jerry Brown governorship will come to an end, and with it his unparalleled mastery of the Golden States political process. In his four terms in office, spread over four decades, he has shed his 1970s enfant terrible reputation to become a shrewd and visionary leader. It is Brown, not Donald J. Trump, who has engaged Chinas leaders about climate change and who warns about the danger of thermonuclear war .

Browns departure also signals the end of an education era. Michael Kirst, the powerful state school board president who engineered massive changes in the states education system, will likely exit when Brown does. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson bumps up against term limits and will leave office. Carl Cohn, the executive director of the California Collaborative for Education Excellence has also confirmed that he will leave his post next year.

As these leaders retire, theres a bloody fight brewing to determine who will lead the states education system and in what direction.

L.A. Board Election Redux

On the surface it will look like a repeat of the recent Los Angeles Unified School District board election, which pitted union-backed candidates against charter school advocates. Charter advocates won, in a shameful $144 a vote negative campaign .

Nick Melvoin, one of the victors, has already endorsed Marshall Tuck who is running for state superintendent. Tuck, who has never held public office, had a strong showing in 2014 , attracting editorial page endorsements with a the schools are failing campaign. Expect a repeat. Weve learned to live with failing schools, Tuck was quoted in a CALmatters article. Our party has not prioritized education the way we need to.

Tuck has been politically aligned with former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaragosa, who is running for governor, in part on an education reform platform. Both appeared at Melvoins post-election victory party.

Tuck will face Assemblyman Tony Thurmond (D-Richmond), who has thus far headlined his campaign as opposing efforts by President Trump and Betsy DeVos to defund our education system. The California Federation of Teachers has already endorsed him, and I suspect that a California Teachers Association statement of support is in the wings. No other candidates have announced.

A Referendum on Brown-Era Reforms

The campaigns wont be framed this wayexpect a lot of platitudes about for kids or for innovation"but it will be a referendum on the reforms of the Brown, Kirst, Torlakson era.

It would be hard to overstate how radical and substantive these reforms are. California is trying to turn its public education system away from the path it has followed for half a century. Its trying to reverse decades of Sacramento centric education and move power to schools and districts. Its trying to rebuild local democracy and make it more inclusive. Its trying to replace test and punish accountability, built almost entirely on negative incentives, with a capacity building system that nourishes green shoots of innovation and creativity. Its trying to improve performance and equity at the same time.

Browns announced strategy of subsidiarity signaled a retreat from state centralized control and the intent to move decisions to the school and district level. Subsidiarity was the keystone of his 2013 state-of-the-state speech, and it paved the way for what has been called the most radical school finance legislation in four decades.

Californias Local Control Funding formula eliminated scores of programs that targeted dollars to specific students for specific needs. Instead, districts where students come from low-income families, those with English learners, and those with foster children get a substantial funding boost. Districts with concentrations of these students got additional funds.

The financing law is only one part of a very complex system built around a new, tough, system of state standards. More than 15 interlocking reforms wheel around the states standards, including curriculum, accountability, assessments, teacher preparation and recruitment, English learners, and special education.

California Way Endangered

Californias reforms also shifted from a blame-and-punish strategy to a build-and-support policy of capacity building and continuous improvement. Torlakson calls it The California Way, which rests on the belief that educators want to excel, trusts them to improve when given the proper supports, and provides local schools and districts with the leeway and flexibility to deploy resources so they can improve.

The state first gained notice nationally with its opposition to Obama Administration testing and teacher evaluation policies. The state was an education outlier then, with Kirst remarking, We cant fire our way to Finland. Backing away from tripwire issues, such as linking test scores and teacher evaluation, allowed Torlakson and others to form and keep a working coalition of the states educational interest groups including employee unions and their historic enemies the school administrators and school boards associations. Task forces advising Torlakson produced two iterations of Blueprint documents, each with specific policy objectives. Another broad based task force created an accountability framework .

Reforms Vulnerable for Three Reasons

The 2018 election makes these reforms vulnerable for at least three reasons:

The shield of Jerry Browns veto pen will be removed. Brown vetoed 15% of the bills that the Democrat controlled legislature sent him in 2016. Hes been a stalwart defender of the existing education coalition. In support of the states new multiple measure accountability system, he nixed a bill authored by Assemblywoman Shirley Weber (D-San Diego) to place more emphasis on test scores. Hes also reined in the legislatures instincts to litter the statute books with pet projects .

Implementation is long; trust is short. All the structures put in place during the last eight years still have several years before they are fully implemented and the hoped for improvements become apparent. Implementation of policy ideas is far more important and difficult than legislating them .

State board president Kirst counsels persistence, patience, and humility , adding Its going to take a long time to do what we are trying to do...and we dont know how they are going to work out. And California Teachers Association president Eric Heins emphasized the long-range nature of the education coalitions effort saying, Building trust and relationships takes time. But trust is in short supply.

Both choice advocates and civil rights guardians are pushing for a more detailed accounting of how funds are spent and accountability measures that produce a list of failing schools. Last week, Public Advocates filed a complaint against the Long Beach Unified School District accusing it of misappropriating $41-million, something the district strongly denies. And commentators allege that Los Angeles and other districts statewide are skirting the law and question whether the entire Brown administration investment in equity has been misspent.

It will not take much pressure to effectively recreate the categorically funded, test-score driven system that The California Way has tried to leave behind. School administratorsbeing highly risk adversewill demand a list of state-approved expense categories and direct their employees to create programs within them. As they have in the past, they will reverse engineer the tests that feed accountability measures and build the daily experiences of students around those things that count on the tests. The worst of the No Child Left Behind world could be quickly rebuilt entirely by accident.

Schools still lack capacity. Schools are making a good faith effort to implement the new finance and accountability laws, a recent research report finds. Instruction and business offices are working more closely together. But for the most part, schools lack the capacity to analyze the connection between inputs and results in terms of student achievement on tests and other measures. Parents , who are supposed to be the roots of grassroots accountability, are not very engaged.

External help is still in formation. The new California Collaborative for Educational Excellence is still getting organized and working with a pilot group of schools. Its executive director, Carl Cohn, frequently says that Long Beach, where he was superintendent, didnt start to improve its measured outcomes for five years.

Neither organizations nor money are born smart. It takes extensive education to understand how to best use money , and it takes skill to communicate this to stakeholders, each of whom will have their pet projects. As the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching is showing, organizations can learn how to improve, but it takes time and disciplined inquiry.

Advantage to Challengers

These vulnerabilities, and the diffuse dissatisfaction over the Brown-era education reforms, give the self-styled reformers a campaign advantage in 2018. In a campaign driven by positive platitudes and negative advertising, slow steady improvement doesnt motivate voters.
What Is a 'Person of Interest' in a Crime?

Nearly every local news station is always ready, willing, and able to help law enforcement locate a "person of interest" for a criminal investigation. After all, crime reporting, particularly unsolved mysteries, makes for good television and even better ratings. But what is a "person of interest" anyway?

The phrase is intentionally vague, but the common understanding is that it refers to a suspected criminal, especially when it is used in the context of a criminal investigation. Sometimes, the phrase can refer to a witness to a crime that has gone missing and needs to be located, but even then, individuals tend to associate the phrase with suspected criminals.

The Consequences of Being Interesting

It's a story as old as mass media. An innocent man gets identified as a "person of interest" in a criminal investigation by law enforcement, then the mass media reports to the public that the man is a "person of interest," then the man's life begins falling apart due to public scorn, despite being innocent. If you've been named as a "person of interest" by law enforcement, talk to a criminal defense attorney before you do anything else.

For example, last fall, Daren Flolo was falsely identified as a "person of interest" in the Bo Kirk road rage murder in Idaho. This was due to a surveillance video being released, where the alleged perpetrator looked similar to Flolo. Although the video quality was rather poor, Flolo was identified by individuals on Facebook. Before Flolo could be proven innocent, he had already been fired and replaced at work, and gone through an emotional roller coaster with his children. Due to prior criminal charges, Flolo struggled when his own kids seemed to question his denial. Flolo told the media that he was planning on moving to a different state in order to escape the public scorn he has faced.

Guilty Until Proven Innocent

One of the hallmark's of the U.S. criminal justice system is the notion that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty. However, in the court of public opinion, a defendant, suspect, or person of interest, is likely to be treated like a convict regardless, at least until Google no longer works.

The phrase came into existence in a failed attempt to avoid the public scorn, humiliation, and consequences of being identified as a criminal suspect. However, due to the manner in which the phrase is used, there is really no difference. To make matters worse, individuals identified as such, like Daren Flolo, often are innocent, but law enforcement just hasn't been able to track them down for questioning as a potential witness.

Individuals who have been falsely identified, arrested, or suffered damages as a result of being named by police or media, may be able to file a lawsuit against the media or police. The specific claims will depend on the specific facts and damages suffered, but could include defamation, wrongful arrest, and other claims.

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Jury Finds Officer Not Guilty in Philando Castile Murder Trial

The case against Minnesota officer Jeronimo Yanez for the murder of Philando Castile has finally come to a close. To the surprise of anyone who viewed the Facebook Live video of the aftermath, uploaded by Mr. Castile's fiancee, the jury actually found Yanez not guilty.

Though there is no doubt that Yanez pulled the trigger and killed Philando Castile, this decision, which took five days of deliberations by the jury, goes a long way toward vindicating Officer Yanez of criminal wrongdoing. Despite being cleared of the criminal charges, Yanez and his department can still face a civil wrongful death lawsuit brought by Mr. Castile's next of kin.

Details of the Case

Yanez's defense attorneys argued that he believed Mr. Castile was reaching for his gun, while high on marijuana, just days after committing armed robbery. The prosecution argued that these defenses didn't make sense and lacked truth. Before being shot and killed, Mr. Castile explicitly stated he was not reaching for his gun, after notifying the officer of his permitted weapon. Logically, if Mr. Castile was going to shoot the officer, or reach for his gun, which he was legally entitled to carry, why would he tell the officer that he had a weapon?

However, the jury was either not convinced by the prosecutor, or maybe they just thought that Yanez was incapable of understanding basic logic. Sadly, what Yanez believed at the time of the incident is actually critical, legally, in this type of case. An officer's subjective belief of imminent danger can justify the use of reasonable force, including deadly force, if the officer is in fear for their life, and their subjective belief is objectively reasonable. These cases are less about objective facts, and more about the officer's subjective belief of the facts, and whether that belief was reasonable.

Civil Murder Lawsuits

Perhaps the most famous civil murder trial involves the infamous OJ Simpson. After being acquitted of the criminal murder charges, the family of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman won a civil lawsuit against OJ for wrongful death.

Basically, the civil and criminal courts are different systems. Although a person may have been found innocent of a crime, they can still face civil liability for their actions. Unfortunately for individuals that just barely beat criminal charges, the standard of proof in civil cases is much lower, meaning that it's easier to prove a civil case against a defendant than it is to prove a criminal case.

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Supreme Court to Review Wisconsin Gerrymandering Case

In a case that could affect elections nationwide, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review a gerrymandering decision from Wisconsin.

All legislatures draw voting districts to favor the incumbent party, but the court will decide how far they can go in drawing maps along party lines. In Gill v. Whitford, a federal court panel said Republican lawmakers had unlawfully drawn state assembly maps to keep Democrats from securing legislative seats.

While agreeing to review that decision, the Supreme Court also stayed the lower court's order to re-draw the maps while the appeal is pending.

"A Blockbuster"

Court watchers anticipate the case will birth the most important decision on elections in years. It could change how state and congressional districts are drawn throughout the country, and thus change who controls state legislatures and Congress.

"This is a blockbuster," said Joshua Douglas, a University of Kentucky College of Law professor and co-editor of the book "Election Law Stories." "This could become the most important election law case in years if not decades."

Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel, a Republican, said he was "thrilled" the Supreme Court granted his request to review the decision. He claims the redistricting process was "entirely lawful and constitutional."

Sachin Chheda, director of the Fair Elections Project, which launched the lawsuit against the redistricting map, said that two federal courts had found it was unconstitutional. "Now this story will be told on a national stage," she said.

Gerrymandering

The Supreme Court recently decided another gerrymandering case from North Carolina. There, the court struck down congressional boundaries that discriminated against African American voters.

"The Constitution entrusts states with the job of designing congressional districts," Justice Elena Kagan wrote in Cooper v. Harris. "But it also imposes an important constraint: A state may not use race as the predominant factor in drawing district lines unless it has a compelling reason."

In the Wisconsin, Republics have controlled the government since the legislative boundaries were drawn in 2011. The judges in the case said the assembly districts were unconstitutional because they "intended to burden the representational rights of Democratic voters ... by impeding their ability to translate their votes into legislative seats."

The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case in the fall.

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254 million invested to improve municipal services, small business growth and economic inclusion

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has been helping communities in Jordan and Turkey cope with the influx of millions of people from war-torn Syria, with a refugee crisis response plan that has so far delivered investments worth 254 million.

Currently, around 6.6 million people, including one million refugees from neighbouring Syria, live and work in areas benefiting from EBRD investments and technical cooperation projects focused mainly on improving strained municipal infrastructure, which serves a population that has increased sharply. In addition, the EBRD refugee response aims to create job opportunities through boosting small businesses and increasing the economic inclusion of groups such as young people and women who are unable to participate fully in the economy.

Resilience and inclusion are at the core of the EBRDs response to the developments in Jordan and Turkey. The Bank continues to work on a pipeline of projects potentially worth 900 million, including EBRD finance and grant blending. This is also supported by policy dialogue in areas such as public-private partnerships, skills development and employment. Donor funding contributed to date for existing and forthcoming projects, from the Banks own resources and from Finland, Norway, Taipei China, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the Concessional Financing Facility and the European Union, totals approximately 180 million.

In Jordan, among several projects in the municipal and infrastructure sector, the Bank has provided a 106 million loan to the Greater Amman Municipality for the solid waste infrastructure urgently needed in the countrys capital, given the significant increase in waste due to the number of Syrian refugees. A loan in Jordanian dinars, equivalent to 1.8 million, to Microfund for Women will increase access to finance for women, including refugees and people living in more remote regions.

In Turkeys south-eastern region, the Bank is providing finance of 80 million to build a modern hospital in Gaziantep, close to the Syrian border, where refugees account for over a third of the population, under a public-private scheme. It is also working with the local chamber of commerce to support entrepreneurship and is looking to engage with Turkish banks to provide loans for small businesses active in refugee-hosting communities, boosting local economies and creating employment opportunities.

Pierre Heilbronn, EBRD Vice President for Policy and Partnerships, said: To mark World Refugee Day tomorrow, we are renewing our commitment to continue supporting our countries host and refugee communities with investment, technical advice and policy reform efforts to tackle the challenges posed by the Syrian crisis. We are closely coordinating our actions with national response programmes, other international financial institutions and international efforts. Our grant-blending approach and private sector focus complement other types of crisis support such as the immediate humanitarian assistance and help the countries address the short and medium-term economic challenges they face.

Through its refugee response work, the EBRD will continue to focus on developing the resilience and inclusiveness of local economies, improving public services and helping create jobs and economic opportunities for all.
The show notes for Episode 37 are at http://www.eclectablog.com/2017/06/episode-37-how-to-steal-health-insurance-from-23-million-americans-without-anyone-noticing-with-special-guest-ben-wikler.html

This is the darkest moment in American history since Donald Trump became president.

Since January 20, 2016, deportations have become a tool of trauma, designed to stigmatize and terrify people who just want to be a part of this American experiment the way our did. Civilian causalities by U.S. forces have grown exponentially. The Administration is rolling back every effort it can protect the climate, civil rights or consumers.

But all of these things were promised.

When it came to health care, Trump promised America something supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. He promised something so much better than Obamacare that youd think wed traded it for a younger, hotter wife.

What were getting is a looting of the American health care system to give the rich and profitable corporations fat tax breaks they dont need. In exchange, premiums will rise for those can afford it the least. A 64-year old who earns $25,000 a year could see her premiums rise $7,000. And as many as 23 million people, including millions eligible for Medicaid before the ACA, will be left uninsured.

We always knew Republicans had no plan to replace Obamacare, because Obamacare was the closest thing there is a to conservative plan for universal health care, but Trump figured out the way around this was to lie. Thats how weve ended up with the GOP jamming the shittiest possible version Obamacare that also ends Medicaid as we know it through the Senate with no hearings and as little as just two hours of debate.

And its working.

Mitch McConnell learned two huge things as he stole a Supreme Court seat and vetoed a bipartisan response to Russian hacking. If you can keep something out of the public eye, it basically doesnt exist to most Americans. And if you have 51 votes in the Senate, you can do anything you want.

And its working. Theres been almost no coverage of how the Senate is trying to remake 1/6th of our economy in a secretive process unlike anything weve seen in more than a 100 years, according to the historian emeritus of the Senate. http://www.latimes.com/politics/la-na-pol-republicans-obamacare-secrecy-20170616-story.html Major newspapers are barely registering this massive fraud. Even NPRs On the Media, the most reliable media critic we have, just gave McConnells effective blackout of coverage a passing nod almost to shrug their shoulders. What can you do?

Ben Wikler from MoveOn.org has been a Paul Revere of the effort to inform the public whats going on behind closed doors on Capitol Hill.

Its DEFCON 1, says Ben. Code Red. All hands on deck time.

Ben is the Washington Director of MoveOn.org, the 8 million member strong progressive community. Hes previously worked with Change.org, Sherrod Brown and Al Franken.

We spoke to him about what we can do to stop this crime against our national soul from happening in secret.

Ben Wickler on Twitter: @BenWikler

Folks, if you're wondering what to do now that Comey has testified: DEFCON 5 ON TRUMPCARE. ALL HANDS ON DECK. Timeline & how to fight: 1/  Ben Wikler (@benwikler) June 8, 2017

Read this entire VERY IMPORTANT tweetstorm HERE.

David Grabowski, Jonathan Gruber, and Vincent Mor at the New York Times: Youre Probably Going to Need Medicaid

Dan Nather at Axios: Who could lose from state health benefit limits

Andy Slavitt at The Washington Post: The Senates three tools on health care: Sabotage, speed and secrecy

George Lakoff: A Minority President: Why the Polls Failed, And What the Majority Can Do

George Lakoff: How to Help Trump

Heres what you need to do.

Stop yourself from repeating or rebutting Trump, or any Republican.

Our liberal brains tell us that our fact checks solve the proof and set the record straight. Instead we just reinforce their messages. We love doing it and our followers love sharing your best Trump owns. But were just helping them. Do your best to ignore anything Trump or his GOP says at least until the end of June. And this also means avoid you should avoid using their language in any way possible. For instance, saying Obamacare isnt in a death spiral is almost as bad as saying that it is. Instead, say something like Obamacare is saving tens of thousands of lives and preventing hundreds of thousands of bankruptcies each year. Make them debunk you! Repetition matters. Repetition matters. Repetition matters.

Fill your feeds with the messages you want people to hear, primarily messages about the death and destructiveness promised by Trumpcare. Seek out the best sources and share and share and share. Assume that no one is getting any news about this because they probably arent. And if you annoy your friends, tell them its just until you can convince the GOP to stop punishing the sick to reward the rich in secret. Focus on what you can do.

You can contact your Senator every day. You can recruit friends in key states to do the same. You may be able to join protests, sit-ins and rallies in favor of caring for our fellow Americans. You may be able to volunteer for and/or otherwise support candidates that oppose TrumpCare and will fight to expand coverage.

Jeff Johnson at Chemical & Engineering News: U.S. Chemical Safety Board faces death sentence

Gary McWilliams at Reuters: Trumps proposal to scrap Chemical Safety Board draws criticism

More about the Chemical Safety Board HERE.

Steven Shepard at Politico: Georgia special election hurtles toward nail-biting finish

That would put us between 35 and 40k new votes, just in the early voting period. There will be more on Election Day (though idk how many)  Nate Cohn (@Nate_Cohn) June 13, 2017

FLINT UPDATE

Eclectablog: Snyder administration officials facing manslaughter charges over #FlintWaterCrisis but Snyder himself cant be sued

Eclectablog: Gov. Snyder faces fierce criticism after his defense of admin officials charged with manslaughter in #FlintWaterCrisis

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Intro and Outro music: Zoolookologie by Jean-Michel Jarre from the album Zoolook.

The Sit and Spin Room logo by Anne C. Savage.
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(Photo: REUTERS / Stringer)Iraqi Christians fleeing the violence in the Iraqi city of Mosul, pray at the Mar Afram church at the town of Qaraqush in the province of Nineveh, July 19, 2014. The ancient Christian community of the northern Iraqi city of Mosul had all but fled by Saturday, ending a presence stretching back nearly two millennia after radical Islamists set them a midday deadline to submit to Islamic rule or leave. The ultimatum by the Islamic State drove out the few hundred Christians who had stayed on when the group's hardline Sunni Muslim fighters overran Mosul a month ago, threatening Christians and the diverse city's other religious communities.

U.S. President Donald Trump is a man who seems able to rile those how might support him and even those who have.

Trump is now facing anger and could face problems from his own base as his administration increases its attempts to deport Iraqi Christians, whom he had undertaken to protect from what has been referred to as extermination in the Middle East.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents over the past weekend detained Iraqi Christians and others to send back to Iraq, Politico reports.

Many of them were taken into custody in Michigan, a U.S state that Trump clinched a narrow win in the 2016 elections and where there are residing a considerable number of Christians from Muslim-majority countries who backed Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign.

"I don't think this is a cut-and-dry case. I don't think these individuals were rounded up because they are Christian. I know immigration authorities say they have criminal records. Sending them back to Iraq is not an automatic death sentence, but being a Christian in Iraq is hard," wrote columnist Jeremy Courtney 15 June in The Washington Post.

"If you are a Christian, you should be deeply troubled by the deportation of your sisters and brothers from Detroit. Because persecution is real - and it has little to do with some of the silly issues that American Christians complain about so easily," he said.

"Our president  elected with the overwhelming support of white evangelicals  has repeatedly pledged to champion the cause of persecuted Christians, especially those from the Middle East. Yet in this case, his policies could inadvertently contribute to the persecution of Christians."

Courtney wrote that the deportation action has stirred alarmed in lawmakers seeking to heighten awareness facing Chaldean and other Christian communities in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere in the Middle East.

"So it's all the more shocking that more than 100 Chaldean Iraqi Christians were arrested in the Detroit Metro area by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents over the weekend, all of whom are now threatened with deportation  back to a country where they will be in mortal danger exactly because of who they are and how they worship," wrote Vox.

It said such communities have battled under the control of the terrorist group that calls itself Islamic State.
Washington Redskins Celebrating After 'Disparaging Trademark' SCOTUS Decision

Today's Supreme Court ruling wasn't part of the Redskins' trademark battle over the franchise's controversial Native American logo and name, but the team's management and lawyers are still celebrating. That's because the big trademark ruling in the case of the Asian American music group, The Slants, paves the way for the Washington Redskins to restore the trademark rights that were cancelled by a federal court in 2015.

The music group's case centered on the same problem the Redskins are currently appealing, the Lanham Act's disparagement clause. Basically, the disparagement clause allows the Patent and Trademark Office to deny a trademark application when the trademark contains phrases or images that are offensive. The Court found the clause to be unconstitutional, and that the music group's controversial name was protected by the First Amendment, and, therefore, the band could not be denied trademark protection.

Rights and Trademark Fights

The fight to preserve the Washington Redskins' trademark rights has been an ongoing court battle for the franchise for over a decade. Since the 1970s, the team has come under intense scrutiny and pressure to change the team's name from the media, the public, and many private interest groups including Native American leaders, groups, and individuals. The team's owner, Dan Snyder, has vehemently refused to change the name, which has been in use since the 1930s.

The team lost a similar battle in 2006 when the trademark appeals board invalidated the trademark. But, the team won that war, as an appeals court overturned the cancellation. However, in 2014, another successful challenge was brought to the trademark appeals board against the team, cancelling the mark again.

In 2015, that ruling was actually upheld by the federal district court. However, the appeal on the matter, and the cancellation going into effect, were both put on hold (or stayed) pending the resolution of The Slants' case. Now that SCOTUS has spoken, it is expected that the Redskins will emerge victorious once again, at least in court.

Disparaging Trademarks Deserve Protection Too

The Supreme Court ruling essentially found that disparaging trademarks are deserving of First Amendment protection. As the Supreme Court noted in the band's case, the First Amendment only protects against the government regulating the speech of the people, not the speech of the government. The prior cases determining that a trademark violated the disparagement clause relied on the idea that trademarks constituted government speech.

SCOTUS explained that trademarks do not qualify as government speech, and as such, the Lanham Act's disparagement clause cannot disqualify a trademark because the clause itself is invalid due to the First Amendment. The First Amendment now protects a trademark from being rejected based upon the viewpoints, even the most unpopular ones, expressed by the trademark.

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Latest News

Maharashtra government approves upgradation of 92 schools Upgradation of primary schools will provide better education to EWS students

KTET October 2022 registration last date today The Kerala TET Exam 2022 is scheduled to be conducted on December 3 and December 4, 2022

AP EAMCET 2022 special round seat allotment result to be declared today, find details here Candidates will have to report to the assigned colleges between November 11 and 14, 2022
The longtime Democratic lawmaker John Vasconcellos is resting in peace since his death in 2014, but the educational disaster he laid on California in the 1980s is far from gone. Indeed, its likeness thrives today across a broad swath of Americas K-12 schooling, supported by foundation grants, federal funding, and both nonprofit and for-profit advocacy groups. Only its name has changedfrom self-esteem to social-emotional learning.

If only the trend had stayed in the Golden State.

Younger readers may not remember Vasconcellos, the late assemblyman and state senator whom one obituary described as a titan of the human-potential movement. In 1986, Vasconcellos managed to persuade Californias conservative GOP Gov. George Deukmejian to support a blue-ribbon task force to promote self-esteem and personal and social responsibility. The ensuing hoopla loosed a tsunami of enthusiasm for building self-esteem as a solution for almost everything that ails an individual, including low achievement in school.

The task forces final report, in 1990, ascribed (as I wrote at the time) near-magical powers to self-esteem, characterizing it as something that empowers us to live responsibly and that inoculates us against the lures of crime, violence, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, child abuse, chronic welfare dependency, and educational failure. 

Yes, Doonesbury cartoonist Garry Trudeau and others made fun of the trend, but the self-esteem movement had legs, and not just in California (where, reportedly, more than 80 percent of local school systems launched programs to promote it after the reports release). New York states education commissioner and board of regents picked up on the trend and tucked self-esteem into the mandate and recommendations of their own task force on inclusion. Endorsements of the task forces report came from such eminences as Bill Clinton, then the governor of Arkansas; first lady Barbara Bush; and retired U.S. Army Gen. Colin Powell.

What gave strength to those legs was the assertion that a panel of prominent scientists at the University of California, having examined all relevant studies on the relationship between self-esteem and major social concerns, had validated the task forces findings and recommendations. A quarter-century later, an investigation published this month by The Guardian newspaper claims that none of this was true. According to journalist Will Storr, the determined Vasconcellos had first browbeaten the university to engage a platoon of scholars by suggesting the damage he could do to its budget, over which he had control, and theneven more astonishingradically reframed a key quote to bolster the scientific credibility of his cause.

The professors found that the correlation between self-esteem and its expected consequencesthough positive in a few areas, such as academic achievementwere fundamentally mixed or absent. To hide this truth under the rug, one task force member told The Guardians Storr, a more positive report was published first. The task force member termed it the kind of lie that can only be described by a four-letter expletive.

Social-emotional learning does not seem intended to build character in any traditional sense, nor is it aimed at citizenship."

Today, few people talk explicitly about self-esteem or other kooky curricular enthusiasms of the past, but the worldview and faux psychology that impelled them have never gone away. Of late, theyve reappearedand gained remarkable tractionunder the banner of social-emotional learning, which claims to build the ways by which children learn and apply skills necessary to understand and manage their emotions, make decisions effectively, sustain positive relationships, and practice empathy.

The notion has attracted much buzz, thanks in part to its very own advocacy organizationthe Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, or CASELwhich is backed by many high-status funders across the country. The National Education Association climbed aboard as well. Social-emotional learning also enjoys a high-profile national commission under the aegis of the Aspen Institute.

Adding fuel to the social-emotional-learning bonfire is its recent association with hot-button issues, such as reforming school discipline into restorative justice. Another major push comes from the federal Every Student Succeeds Acts encouragement of states to include school quality in their rating systems, with school climate as a key metric in many jurisdictions. Another current education enthusiasm, known as 21st-century skills, also contributes to social-emotional learnings popularity.

Theres nothing exactly wrong with many of these ideas, some of which partake of legitimate performance-character traits such as impulse control and self-discipline. But social-emotional learning also smacks of the self-esteem mindset, with entries such as self-confidence and self-efficacy. Dig into social-emotional learnings five core competencies , as laid out by CASEL, and youll spotamong 25 skills students are supposed to learnjust one feeble mention of ethics and none whatsoever of morality. You wont even find such old-fashioned virtues as integrity, courage, or honesty, and certainly nothing as edgy as patriotism.

Though its partisans will contest the point, social-emotional learning does not seem intended to build character in any traditional sense, nor is it aimed at citizenship. Its awash in the self, steeped in the ability to understand ones own emotions, thoughts, values, strengths, and limitations.

All good things, up to a point, but note how far they are from the traditional obligation of schools to impart academic skills and knowledge. Think how many other vehicles American society has for advancing social-emotional conceptsthe Girl Scouts, religious youth groups, Little League, swim teamwhile we have essentially no others that will teach children to read, write, or compute.

Like Mr. Vasconcellos self-esteem edifice, social-emotional learning will almost surely turn out to have no real scientific foundationjust a lot of much-hyped qualitative and anecdotal studies that nobody could replicate via gold-standard research. Indeed, those who are still sentient a quarter-century later may well read an expose of social-emotional learning by a journalist, perhaps containing another telling quote that one isnt supposed to utter in front of ones students.
Around 100 people are arranging an imminent departure. Leaders of the shelter, along with Karen social organizations and local authorities have put together a committee to help facilitate these villagers return, said Na Knyaw Paw, general secretary of the Karen Womens Organization (KWO).

I heard that they are definitely set on returning home. The committee is meeting about their return, she said. As far as I know, there are around 50 households, constituting over 100 people [who intend to leave].

All aid for the Ei Tu Hta shelter is expected to stop in September, she added.

At the moment, the nearly 3,000 IDPs staying at Ei Tu Hta receive only a rice subsidy. Each person under the age of 6 receives 6 kilos per month. Those above the age of 6 receive 12 kilos per month.

Some of the IDPs wont go back to their former villages but they will stay and work together with their friends from nearby areas. Some of the IDPs have already left under their own arrangements, said one of the IDPs who asked not to be named.

Many of the shelter residents continue to be concerned about the Tatmadaw camps stationed along the roads from Hpapun township en route to their villages, and fear the danger of landmines once they return.

Ei Tu Hta IDP camp was opened in 2006 on a plot of land beside the Thanlwin River. The shelter was only ever intended as a temporary fix to house civilians needing refuge during fighting between the Karen National Union and the Tatmadaw. The KNU signed a bilateral ceasefire in 2012, and was among the eight signatories of the nationwide ceasefire agreement in 2015.

Following the ceasefires and return of relative stability in Kayin State, pressure has mounted on displaced villagers to return home, and funding for their shelters has dried up.

The Ei Tu Hta camp has faced medical supply shortages since last month, while IDPs say educational support has also declined.
Unable to extent his visa, on June 9 he was forced to leave the country.

Over the past few years, it was never difficult for him [Harn Yawnghwe] to get a one-year visa. He would be issued one within a week. He has been applying [for a visa] since April but still didnt get it, said Khuensai Jaiyen, the managing director of Pyidaungsu Institute for Peace and Dialogue (PI). When he contacted the Burmese embassy in Canada, they said they didnt know anything about it.

Khuensai added: Any visa ban is ordered by the Burmese Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

There is a rumor that the reason Harn Yawnghwe was blacklisted is because he has been increasingly seen as an influential person in the ethnic political arena. He is often accused by critics of masterminding the peace process single-handedly. Harn Yawnghwe and his Euro Burma Office (EBO) organization has been one of the main funders of civil society groups and ethnic armed organizations involved in Burmas peace process.

The EBO was established in 1997 with an agenda to promote democracy and human rights. It was allowed to set up a branch office in Burma a few weeks after Harn Yawnghwe met Naypyidaws chief negotiator Aung Min in Bangkok in September 2011.

Khuensai Jaiyen said that Harn Yawnghwe has been a key player in Burmas peace process dating back to President Thein Seins initiative in 2011, frequently helping to facilitate talks between the Burmese government and ethnic armed groups.

In my opinion, this marks a failure for the State Counselors peace process, said Khuensai Jaiyen. If he is not allowed to enter the country, the peace process that the State Counselor is leading will face problems. They should not ban him on the basis of these suspicions. They should have talked with him face to face.

Apart from Harn Yawnghwe, two other staff from EBO are also on the blacklist.

Currently, EBO is helping to support the eight nationwide ceasefire agreement signatory groups to set up liaison offices inside the country.

Han Yawnghwe is the youngest son of Sao Shwe Thaike, the prince of Yawnghwe who was the first president of Burma from 1948-52. One of his brothers was shot dead when Gen. Ne Win staged a coup detat in 1962. He and his mother, Sao Nang Hearn Kham, the founder of the Shan State Army, immediately fled the country. He was allowed to return to Burma in 2011 during the early days of the military-backed Thein Sein government.
Government holds silence for fire victims

The Manx Government held a minute's silence for the victims of the Grenfell Tower block fire in London.

79 people are missing presumed dead as a result of the fire, which swept through the 24-storey building in the early hours of last Tuesday.

The silence was observed at all Isle of Man Government buildings earlier today.
This blog is looking for wisdom, to have and to share. It is also looking for other rare character traits like good humor, courage, and honor. It is not an easy road, because all of us fall short. But God is love, forgiveness and grace. Those who believe in Him and repent of their sins have the promise of His Holy Spirit to guide us and show us the Way.
Advancing scientific integrity on bees By Paul Driessen

Second Lady Karen Pence and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue recently teamed up to install a honeybee hive on the grounds of the Vice Presidents residence at the Naval Observatory in Washington, DC. This will serve as a great example of what people can do to help reverse the decline in managed honeybee colonies around the country, the secretary said. Helping bees and educating people about bee problems is a good idea. However, if the hive is an attempt to reduce media and environmentalist criticism of Trump Administration policies  or put the Pences and Ag Department on the right side of the bee-pocalypse issue  it will backfire. It will also undermine administration efforts to advance evidence-based science, restore integrity to scientific and regulatory processes, promote safe modern technologies, and support continued crop production and exports. A steady stream of misinformation has fueled misplaced public anxiety about bees. Being on the right side must therefore begin with recognizing that honeybee populations are actually increasing, as the decline in managed honeybee colonies reversed in recent years. Attention to the vice presidential hive should instead focus on preventing and controlling the biggest single threat to honeybees, especially in small-scale hobbyist hives: infestations of Varroa mites. Anti-pesticide zealots and headline-seeking news media have been talking for years about domesticated bees (and now wild bees) serving as the canary in the coal mine, whose health problems portend yet another man-made environmental calamity. The future of agriculture, human nutrition, perhaps all life on Earth could be at risk if bees and other important pollinators disappear, they ominously intone. That is nothing more than fear-mongering. Honeybee populations have been bouncing back nicely since the days when many worried about mysterious large-scale deaths in hives. In fact, the crisis was seriously (and sometimes deliberately) overblown, and honeybee populations are now at or near 20-year highs in North America and every other continent, except Antarctica. Assiduous scientific investigation helped identify the mites, viruses and fungal pathogens that can infest hives, and beekeepers are learning to treat infestations without inadvertently killing bees or entire hives. That process has underscored the hard reality that, for professional and hobbyist beekeepers alike, maintaining healthy hives is complicated and difficult, especially when multiple pathogens invade. However, in another sense, honeybees truly are canaries in the coal mine. They are harbingers of the ways environmentalist attacks on modern agriculture can damage one of the most productive, competitive and globally vital sectors of the American economy. American agriculture feeds the USA and world, while generating trade surpluses and supporting rural and small town communities across the country. Unfortunately, determined anti-pesticide zealots have been trying for nearly a decade to use the alleged bee crisis to prevent farmers from using advanced-technology neonicotinoid pesticides that boost agricultural yields, reduce the need for other crop-protection insecticides that can harm bees, and reduce risks to humans, birds, other animals, non-pest insects, and bees. Neonics are now the worlds most widely used pesticide class. They are mainly (some 90%) applied as seed coatings, which lets crops absorb the chemicals into their tissue and allows minuscule amounts to target only pests that feed on and destroy crops. Radical greens have tried for years to blame neonics for higher-than-normal over-winter hive losses, colony collapse disorder (in which bees mysteriously abandon their colonies, leaving the queen, food and unhatched eggs behind) and other bee problems. The mere fact that neonics may be detected in negligible, below-harmful levels in the nectar and pollen of neonic-treated crops, in foliage near neonic-treated cropland, or in the food stored in honeybees hives, has fueled emotional campaigns to ban these crop protection products. The activists simply ignore large-scale field studies that have consistently shown no adverse effects on honeybees at the colony level from field-realistic exposures to neonics. They ignore the fact that bees thrive among and around neonic-treated corn and canola crops in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and elsewhere. Anti-pesticide crusaders are determined to take neonics out of farmers pest-control tool-kits. They will not let scientific facts stand in their way. This is the tug-of-war that Mrs. Pences beehive has plunged her into. What if her bee colony collapses and dies? Whatever embarrassment this may bring to her skills as a beekeeper (and those of USDA staff who will be charged with keeping the hive alive), activists will claim the bee deaths further confirm that the Trump Administrations enviro-critics are right  and Americas farmers are wrong. So what can we learn from the fate of one bee colony on the bucolic grounds of the Naval Observatory in the middle of urban Washington, DC? Potentially plenty  if Mrs. Pence and her USDA aides put on their thinking caps, learn more about bee issue realities, use this otherwise empty gesture to dramatize the real issues facing honeybees and their keepers, and help advance the cause of scientific integrity. In recent weeks, the USDA-supported Bee Informed Partnership at the University of Maryland published its annual survey of honeybee colony losses for 2016-17. Although lower than last year and among the best since the decade-old survey began, over-winter losses of 21% and in-season (summer) losses of 18% are still troublesome numbers. However, a vitally important point must be kept in mind. Those losses were suffered overwhelmingly by small, backyard, hobbyist beekeepers. (Barely 1% of respondents to the BIP survey are large-scale commercial beekeepers, which skews the survey.) This parallels other studies that show small-scale, hobbyist, backyard beekeepers suffer much higher rates of colony loss than do large-scale professionals, who handle the vast majority of US bees and hives. Those other studies also show that small-scale beekeepers have the greatest difficulty keeping their bees alive in the face of the scourge of Varroa destructor mites. Epidemic since its 1987 arrival in the USA, this bee parasite is a triple threat. Bee larvae often hatch with Varroa mites already attached to them, and these parasites: (1) suck the bees hemolymph blood-equivalent out of them, (2) thereby compromising the bees immune systems, and (3) vectoring a dozen or more viruses and diseases into honey bees and colonies, turning what were just nuisance infections before Varroa arrived into devastating epidemics. This has produced a striking paradox  which Mrs. Pences new bee colony could help explain. In the wake of widespread publicity about the supposed bee crisis, tens of thousands of well-meaning people across the USA  from the rural countryside to rooftops in densely populated urban areas  have set out to help the bees by setting up hobbyist beekeeping operations of one or a few hives. The problem, studies show, is that these well-intentioned initiatives often end up making things worse for honeybees. Many newly-minted, nature-loving hobbyist beekeepers believe  contrary to the overwhelming bulk of beekeeping literature and practice  that treating their hives chemically for Varroa mites is against nature, and thereby hasten the inevitable disaster to their hives. When those hobbyist hives collapse under the weight of uncontrolled or poorly controlled Varroa mites and related diseases, surviving bees migrate in search of new homes, frequently among the healthy hives of some neighboring professional beekeeper  carrying Varroa mites with them. Thats how hobbyist beekeepers inadvertently contribute to the spread of this honeybee epidemic  and to the spread of misinformation about bee losses. Mrs. Pences colony wont provide lessons on supposed harmful effects on honeybees from exposure to neonic pesticides. The nearest neonic-treated canola and cornfields are well beyond her bees roughly 3-mile flight. However, its a golden opportunity to use the colony as an object lesson in what small-scale beekeepers should do to keep their hives alive and thriving: above all, control Varroa mites. Mrs. Pences bee colony could become an exemplar for small-scale beekeepers on how to do right by honeybees. By implementing sound beekeeping practices (particularly properly timed Varroa counts and controls), live-streaming those practices and daily hive activity via the bee equivalent of the Panda Cam, and posting short how-to videos, she could teach millions about bees  and advance hobbyist efforts to help bees. That would help replace failure and disappointment with rewarding fun and satisfaction. Paul Driessen is senior policy analyst for the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (www.CFACT.org) and author of Eco-Imperialism: Green power - Black death. Home
Impeach Trump!!!! By Dr. Robert Owens

That is the screech were about to hear emanating from the denizens of the swamp. It is beginning to percolate already. Though predicted in this column by this author before the inauguration it still has a jarring impact on the senses. Back in the Dream Times when the Deep State was able to turn Watergate into a Silent Coup the precedent was set. If someone tries to overturn the moneychangers tables they must be destroyed. If its a president, even one elected for the sole purpose of adding some reality to the mirage of a dysfunctional democracy portrayed by our functioning oligarchy, they must be hounded out of office, disgraced, and discredited. Thats the play book. The perpetually re-elected hacks aided and abetted by the ABCCBSNBCCNNMSNBCPBS Cartel and their paleo partners in print have latched on to their intended weapon, The Russians are coming! The Russians are coming! No matter that the initial facts of the story are ludicrous: the fictional Golden Shower Dossier and the Russian hack of the DNC, which was in fact an inside job. It doesnt matter that the very foundation of the Russian collusion theory is built on sand; we now have a Special Counselor. We cant call him a Special Prosecutor because there is no legal foundation to appoint a Special Prosecutor, so if we call him a Special Counselor that should fool all of us out here in fly-over country. Prosecutors always believe whoever they are investigating is guilty and that their job is to find enough evidence to prove what they believe. Innocent until you are proven guilty, right. Anyone who has ever been lucky enough to have been involved in a criminal trial and lived to talk about it knows how that feels in reality. It inspired some to look at the courthouse and say, It may say justice on the outside but there isnt any on the inside. Remember the Valerie Plame investigation? Someone blew her cover as an undercover CIA operative. Before the investigation even started they knew who did it. Eventually after a few years and millions of dollars they never prosecuted anyone for the leak; instead they prosecuted Lewis Scooter Libby the Chief of Staff of Vice President Dick Chaney for inconsistencies in his testimony. These are search and destroy missions. They are looking to get at least one conviction to justify all of their expense and to puff up the reputations of the scalp hunters who run them. This Special Counselor is one of the closest associates of James The Leaker Comey. He is staffing his office with Obama and Hillary supporters and were supposed to believe his investigation of a non-crime that never happened will produce objective results that anyone anywhere would imagine are justice? Witch hunts find witches. Thats what they do. Have you ever been on a snipe hunt? Ever find any snipes? If anyone was interested in finding real collusion to disrupt an American election they could look into the subject of the DNC emails leaked to WikiLeaks; the proven collusion between the Hillary Clinton campaign, Donna Brazile, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Did you ever notice that none of the principles ever denied what was in the leaked emails, they merely complained about who leaked what to who. Why isnt there a Special Counselor looking in to how these people stacked the cards against poor old Bernie Sanders? He said all along the election was rigged and he was right after all. Why no interest in this? It doesnt serve to keep the swamp damp thats why. Our elite masters, the perpetually re-elected, the Deeps State, and the Media Cartel are setting the stage. They must drive Trump from office before he can actually drain the swamp. They must drive him out disgraced and repudiated or else we poor blind masses might figure out that we dont need technocrats to rule us. I am for establishing a new political party. I think it should be the Telephone Book Party. I think we could pick the first 535 names out of any phone book in the country and get a Congress at least as good as the best one that money can buy. At least that way we might get some actual working people in there. Until my new party figures out how to win a mandate we have to endure with what we have and these political savants are determined to undue the results of the last election. None of their fellow swamp dweller won, so they have banded together and the twin headed bird of prey that is the government party is clearly on display. They wont let little things like votes, or facts, or whats good for America get in their way. No, they will soldier on and soon we will hear this predators screech IMPEACH TRUMP!!!! IMPEACH TRUMP!!!! echoing through the land. Dr. Robert Owens teaches History, Political Science, and Religion. He is the Historian of the Future @ http://drrobertowens.com  2017 Contact Dr. Owens drrobertowens@hotmail.com Follow Dr. Robert Owens on Facebook or Twitter @ Drrobertowens / Edited by Dr. Rosalie Owens Home
Terrorism in Tehran: ISIS intensifies its subversive activity in the Middle East By Lt. Col. (ret.) Michael Segall

A Blow to the Symbols of Islamic Rule The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the coordinated simultaneous terror attacks on Irans parliament (Majlis) building and on the tomb of Irans first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khomeini. The group issued a statement in its media arm, as well as a short video from a camera carried by one of the assailants at the parliament. Indeed, it took responsibility even before the attack on the parliament building had ended. The coordinated attacks killed 13 people and wounded more than 40. The Islamic States Amaq News Agency proclaimed the organizations first major attack in Iran in several Arabic messages: Security source to Amaq Agency: Fighters from the Islamic State attacked the Khomeini Shrine and the Iranian parliament building in the center of Tehran. This was the largest terror attack that the Islamic State has perpetrated in the heart of the Iranian capital. It was aimed at civilians and prominent symbols of the regime. Organizations affiliated with the Islamic State (jundalhaq) have carried out terror attacks against the Iranian Border Guard and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), particularly in the mainly Sunni-populated province of Sistan and Baluchistan in southeastern Iran, but so far have not attacked civilians. Over the past year, Arab separatist elements have also carried out attacks in the Khuzestan province of western Iran, which has an Arab majority and numerous oil facilities. Death to America, to Israel, and to Saudi Arabia The Iranian leadership and senior IRGC officials lost no time accusing Saudi Arabia of the attack, claiming the Saudis had been encouraged by U.S. President Donald Trumps visit and his efforts to form an anti-Iranian alliance. IRGC Deputy Commander Hossein Salami issued an explicit threat by promising to avenge the blood of the martyrs who were killed in the terror attack by striking the terrorists and those who sent them. The IRGCs deputy intelligence chief accused the United States and Saudi Arabia of inviting attacks by mercenaries within Iran. In an allusion to a statement by Saudi Crown Prince and Defense Minister Mohammed bin Salman (who said Saudi Arabia would not wait for Iran to take over Yemen and would bring the campaign to Iran), Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted: Terror-sponsoring despots threaten to bring the fight to our homeland. Proxies attack what their masters despise most: the seat of democracy. In a speech that concluded the Majlis session (which continued during the terror attack), Majlis Chairman Ali Larijani called for a harsh crackdown on terror, and cries were heard in the chamber of death to America, death to the Saudi regime and death to Israel. The Islamic State Calls on the Sunnis to Revolt against the Regime In recent months, the Islamic States propaganda mechanism has stepped up its efforts to recruit Iranians with messages in Persian. At the end of March 2017, the group issued a video called Persia between yesterday and today in which Iranian militants call on Irans Sunni minority to form terror cells and carry out attacks against Shiite forces. Persian-speaking Islamic State militants (not all of them necessarily Iranian) describe the persecution and the executions of Sunnis in Iran and urge them to revolt against the regime, and specifically, among other things, to burn mosques in Tehran and Isfahan. The video accuses Iran of hypocrisy in opposing Israel since, whereas the Sunnis in Iran are persecuted, the Jews in Iran live in freedom. It also says Iran practices hypocrisy in its relations with the United States. Since then, the organization has issued several more calls in the Persian-language version of its magazine Rumiyah (which means Rome in Arabic). Rumiyah, also published in Arabic, Russian, Indonesian, and French, propounds the Islamic States prophecies of expansion and conquest. Khamenei: Our Involvement in Syria and Iraq Prevents Terror Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei drew a connection between the terror attack and Irans involvement in Syria and Iraq. He said that if Iran had not been actively fighting the Islamic State in those two countries, in the heart of where the intrigues are plotted, we would have many similar incidents within the country. Khameneis words dovetail with Irans national security strategy, according to which the countrys borders must be defended from afar  hence its ongoing support for Syria, Hizbullah, and the Palestinian terror organizations, which Iran views as a forward defense line against Israel. The coordinated strikes in Tehran will likely have important repercussions for Iran both domestically and externally. More Trouble for Rouhani On the domestic front, the attack will add considerably to the difficulties of President Rouhani. Elected to a second term on May 20, 2017, he dispensed campaign promises of reforms in the domain of individual and citizens rights. The security forces will exploit the incident to beef up security measures, particularly, though not only, against Sunni and Kurdish minorities, and will crack down harder on any show of opposition to the Islamic regime by the reformist camp. Indeed, the Iranian population has not yet paid a real price in blood within Iran for the IRGCs adventurous policy in different Middle Eastern arenas. (Although large numbers of IRGC and Basij fighters have been killed in Syria and Iraq, the Iranian population in the major cities has not been harmed.) Hence, in the aftermath of the attack in Tehran, criticism of the high price of this ongoing involvement may mount, but probably will be harshly repressed. After the incident, Khamenei already emphasized the need to fight seditionists in Syria, Iraq, or anywhere else. An Increase in Foreign Subversion In the external sphere, Iran will probably ramp up its activities in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere under the pretext of its war on Islamic State terror, even where there is no real connection to its terror, because doing so will suit the interests of the IRGC. The Tehran attack may afford the IRGC an opportunity to boost economic and military assistance to organizations under its patronage and even to dispatch additional Iranian forces to Syria and Iraq ostensibly to conduct the war on terror. Furthermore, Iran may expand and intensify its activity against the Kurdish organizations operating against it near the Iraqi border and against the Sunni groups operating near its border with Pakistan. Iran would thereby risk escalating the tensions with Pakistan after some incidents along their common border in recent weeks. The rise in IRGC activity will likely make it still harder for Rouhani to promote his foreign policy goals as frictions with Saudi Arabia and the United States, which also are fighting the Islamic State, are liable to mount. The Islamic States Next Target? Since the beginning of the year, the Islamic State appears to have changed its policy on terror attacks against Iran. For its part, Iran has been fighting the Islamic State on several fronts in Iraq and Syria, whether directly or with various Shiite militias as proxies. Iran, however, has been allowed some mitigations because it is also fighting organizations operating against Syrian President Bashar Assads regime, groups that the Islamic State is fighting as well. It is also possible that, as the Islamic State loses land in Syria and Iraq, its fighters will make their way eastward toward Iran and Pakistan. Iran may be facing a new and unfamiliar struggle with terror not only on its borders but within its large cities as well. Terror of the Islamic State variety will probably aim for a sympathetic response from Irans many ethnic minorities. The Sunni organizations (jundalhaq) fighting Iran in the southeastern tri-border area of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan  groups that are inspired by the Islamic State  will probably be encouraged by the double terror attack in Tehran and try to step up their activity. The double attack may also drive separatist organizations and various ethnic elements that are active among Irans Arab minority, which is concentrated in Khuzestan, to escalate their attacks on the oil and gas facilities. In July 2016, the organization Suqour al-Ahvaz (Hawks of Ahvaz) took responsibility for an attack on the Boul-Ali-Sina Petrochemical Complex in Bandar-E Mahshahr. In any case, it appears that as the Islamic State continues to lose territory, Iran will increasingly find itself confronting the group both within Iran and along its borders. That, in turn, is likely to further aggravate Irans relations with the United States and with the Gulf states, most of all Saudi Arabia. IDF Lt.-Col. (ret.) Michael (Mickey) Segall, an expert on strategic issues with a focus on Iran, terrorism, and the Middle East, is a senior analyst at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs and at Alcyon Risk Advisors. Home
My Pilgrimage, Chapter Nineteen: An Excerpt from Michael Moriartys Novel, The Exile By Michael Moriarty

Having awoken from his customarily daily nap, Peter sat before his computer with a deeply self-satisfied smile. While hearing Esther prepare the videos for a You Tube presentation of Peters Symphony No. 6, Peter stared at the Christian Thielemann study of Richard Wagner, my life with WAGNER, knowing that he would read each page slowly and carefully. As Mr. Thielemann described his euphoria after first conducting the Prelude to Tristan and Isolde, the conductor writes that he was enraptured and blissfully happy for hours. Wagners music as an undeniable form of the drug known as Ecstasy. Yet, as Peter realized, the ultimate Fate for all involved, particularly in the legendary Ring of the Nibelungen, was not only the Death of the Gods but, in Wagners bleakly prophetic way, the death of an entire nation. That nation being Wagners own homeland, Peter wondered if this Genius of Opera, a driving force beneath the German self-image that created and built Hitlers Third Reich, if the composer knew that his megalomaniacal fantasies were all an inevitably symbolic suicide. Creating his music out of a manic euphoria and, doubtlessly, a blood-thirsty sense of vengeance upon all of Jewry but for what?! The Nibelungens covetous vision of The Ring and its unrelenting curse upon The Rings next owners?! The Curse of Greed is unquestionably recorded by History as universal! That sin knows no particularly racial limitations. Its rapacious virulence culminated not in a Jewish triumph but in Germanys Nazi dreams of World Domination! The monster Wagner inevitably hated most was, in the end, his own Nazi ambitions. And, finally, Wagners own and rather frequent presumptions of Godhead helped lead to his nations own Gotterdammerung! In that sense, the entire drama of World War II, from a German point of view, is mirrored in the fates of heroes and heroines within Wagners Ring of the Nibelungen. Somehow Wagner knew the ultimate fate of his own obsessions and in, perhaps, an entirely subconscious way, painted his final hero Siegfried as an unconscionable egomaniac rather like himself. Perhaps Wagners greatest genius was not in the talents he consciously exploited. Gotterdammerung, or The Death of the Gods, was in fact Wagners unerring prophecy of absolute destruction for Nazi Germany! One slowly but surely begins to comprehend why so many artists, such as Maestros Thielmann and Leonard Bernstein, learn to see Wagner in a remarkably prophetic way but, perhaps, without understanding why! In my experience, I know of no greater example of pure schizophrenia than the Anti-Semitic insanities of the Nazi Wagner pitted against the redemption of a biblically prophetic portrait artist, capturing his Nazi nations inevitable self-destruction. Undeniably a genius beyond its owners own understanding. The torturously insane artist caught for decades in a fit of his own volcanic creativity. The overall message in his Ring of the Nibelungen? Arian Supremacy and its self-declared Godhead will inevitably self-destruct! Why? Man, despite his own presumptions, is not The God he has always thought he can be! Thats a delusion most profoundly captured by Richard Wagners Ring of the Nibelungen. Peter somehow felt that this excerpt from his novel, The Exile, should go into his weekly contribution to a political site on the internet. Why? His readers would know nothing, till now, of this burgeoning novel. They would know even less about Peters existence in his own opera, Richard Wagner in Hell! It would be an update! So YES! Richard Wagner:

A Genius

Beyond Even

His Own Comprehension! Michael Moriarty is a Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor who starred in the landmark television series Law and Order from 1990 to 1994. His recent film and TV credits include The Yellow Wallpaper, 12 Hours to Live, Santa Baby and Deadly Skies. Contact Michael at rainbowfamily2008@yahoo.com. He can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/@MGMoriarty. Home
Oil prices are set to rebound



By Nick Cunningham

The latest selloff in oil prices have left speculators in a predicament: The fundamentals continue to look poor with unimpressive drawdowns in crude oil stocks, but there is a general consensus that the extension of the OPEC deal should push the market towards a rebalancing over the next few quarters.



What that means for short-term movements in prices is unclear. The unpredictability of todays oil market is leaving some investors burned by unexpected price gyrations. For example, just ahead of the recent selloff in prices, oil traders bought up bets on rising prices. Hedge funds and other money managers increased their bullish bets by 7.3 percent for the week ending on June 6, but prices plunged by 5 percent a day later.



Traders looking for some direction might want to consider the futures market, where a contango structure has reemerged. A contango, in which near-term oil futures trade at a discount to futures dated further out, is a symptom of oversupply. For example, two weeks ago, futures for December 2017 traded at a $1 per barrel discount compared to contracts for delivery in December 2018. That discount ballooned to $1.49 per barrel last week, according to Bloomberg, a sign that investors are growing more pessimistic about oversupply conditions this year. "Brent spreads are getting clobbered," Amrita Sen, chief oil market analyst at consultants Energy Aspects Ltd., told Bloomberg. "The Atlantic Basin is awash in light crudes from Nigeria and Libya."



The December 2017-December 2018 spread is now deeper into contango territory than at any point since the original OPEC deal back in late 2016. In recent months the spread was positive  that is, the December 2017 contract traded at a premium compared to contracts a year later, a situation known as backwardation.



Several investment banks have insisted that OPECs best hope at draining inventories was to do just that: Induce a state of backwardation into the market. By driving up near-term prices while pushing down the back end of the futures curve, the argument goes, OPEC could scare off shale drilling. Producers would be deprived of finance by skittish lenders, and they would be reluctant to drill if they expected prices to be lower in the future. OPEC could achieve this state of backwardation by maintaining cuts this year while also signaling production growth in the future.



If that is the strategy, so far it has not succeeded. The reemergence of the contango reflects concerns about the glut persisting through this year.



Meanwhile, investors are growing wary of an energy market that continues to spurn them. Energy companies have been among the worst performing stocks in 2017. The poor results are leading to an exodus of capital from energy-linked exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Over the past three months, more than $300 million have been pulled out of energy ETFs, according to Bloomberg, which will likely result in the first quarterly outflow of capital from energy ETFs in more than two years. "People are re-allocating money to sectors that are performing better, technology or health-care, versus sitting on a sector like energy thats down 10 plus percent," Jeff Carbone, managing partner of Cornerstone Financial Partners, told Bloomberg. "Were bottoming, but what pushes it higher? Thats the hard part."



The flip side is that some think that the selloff in energy is overdone. That is exactly why hedge funds and other money managers bought up a greater net-long position in early June, even though some might feel they got in at the wrong time. Nevertheless, the cratering of oil prices last week has opened up a buying opportunity. "When you start to approach $45 a barrel in WTI, you're in an area where you do find some price support and I think there has been some evidence last week of investment flows coming back into crude oil," Petromatrix strategist Olivier Jakob said in a Reuters interview. Jakob cautioned that the room on the upside could still be limited. "You have to be careful not to be too optimistic for now," he said. "Physical differentials are still under pressure and the time structure is still under pressure in Brent. It's a bit premature to call for much higher oil prices."



So what happens next depends on who you ask. Market fundamentals look weak but some traders see attractive entry points. Nick Cunningham is a writer for Oilprice.com where this originally appeared. Home
Senator Joe Manchin [D-WV, @Sen_JoeManchin, +1 304-342-5855] is a right-wing Democrat Senator whose inglorious career includes breaking with his party to endorse President Trump's deal to sell record quantities of weapons to the Saudis.



Manchin has previously scolded activist constituents who objected to his pro-corporate voting history, telling them that he was "not changing" and if they didn't like him they should "find somebody else who can beat me and vote me out."





Enter Paula Jean Swearengin, an environmental activist from a long line of Virginia coal miners, who is challenging Manchin in the upcoming primary for the 2018 election. She's making hay out of Manchin's vote  which rescued the Saudi arms deal from a Rand-Paul-led vote against the weapons sale.



"I'm not surprised because of his history of voting in favor of President Trump, like a Republican," Swearengin said. She then went on a tear suggesting that the weapons would end up in terrorist hands rather than focusing on how the arms could be used in the war against Yemen. "Sen. Manchin voting against the provision to stop the sale. That tells me that Sen. Manchin supports giving weapons to a country that is known for harboring terrorists," Swearengin said. "The weapons could possibly end up in the hands of terrorists. She also linked the vote to Manchin's voting record on domestic matters, saying that both are evidence that Manchin doesn't respect human rights. "He's showing us he doesn't value human life, in Appalachia, in America, or other countries," she said. "People are dying in the streets and starving in Yemen. How does he sleep at night? West Virginians are tired of dying and starving as a result of his poor leadership, too." Manchin, who did not reply to a request for comment, may face more votes on Saudi arms sales before the election next year.



JOE MANCHIN WAS ONE OF FIVE DEMOCRATS WHO SAVED SAUDI ARMS SALES. HIS PRIMARY OPPONENT IS FURIOUS. [Zaid Jilani/The Intercept]
Shades of quickly fading blue  the decline of the Tory tradition in Canada since the 1980s (Part Three) By Mark Wegierski

The fourth group within the Progressive Conservative party of the 1980s, were those who could be broadly defined as "small-c conservatives" of various stripes, or, more specifically, Tories concerned with community and nation, who truly represented the tory tradition of Canada. Patrick Boyer (the M.P. who from 1984 to1993 represented the Etobicoke-Lakeshore riding in Toronto), was probably the most prominent representative of this tradition in the PC party. Patrick Boyer has also been a university professor and has authored several books about politics and constitutional law, especially focussing on his favourite topic of direct referenda. From the late-1980s to late-1990s, many of these persons had moved to support the Reform Party of Canada, which eventually became the Canadian Alliance (officially called the Canadian Reform-Conservative Alliance). One should also mention John Gamble, who unfortunately became increasingly embittered at his treatment by the PC party in the 1980s, and eventually drifted into unqualified extremism. Brian Mulroney owed a huge political debt to Gamble for keeping the anti-Clark forces alive  thus contributing to Joe Clarks weak showing in the leadership review and Mulroneys subsequent win in the leadership convention of 1983. Despite the fact that Gamble was the PC partys official candidate in the riding, the collusion of the PC and Liberal Parties led to his defeat in 1984 by the setting up of a supposedly independent candidate who unexpectedly won the riding. Another example of disdain for a more substantively conservative candidate was the way Peter Worthington (a co-founder and former editor of The Toronto Sun) was maneuvered out of the PC candidacy in the Toronto riding of Broadview-Greenwood in 1984, thus being forced into a difficult run as an independent. So what were at that time two of Canadas more substantive conservatives were shut out of the huge, 211-seat, Mulroney landslide victory of 1984. There had been in the large PC caucus of 1984 and 1988, an attempt to form a small-c conservative ginger-group, snidely characterized by the media as the Dinosaur Club. Given Mulroneys contempt for small-c conservatism, the climate at the ginger-group meetings was likely to have been without much cheer. The Conservative Party under Stephen Harper had carried the hopes of a large, centre-right and centre coalition. Its more salient (1) supporters included: social conservatives, neoconservatives, libertarians, classical liberals, purely fiscal conservatives, as well as some federalists and soft sovereigntists in Quebec, some disaffected right-wing Liberals and perhaps some socially conservative former NDP supporters. However, it would be of considerable importance to the future of Canada, if the voice of what could be called "true toryism" could somehow be heard within the diverse medley of the Conservative Party. Footnotes: (1) This term means here persons who believe in some kind of more-or-less coherent principles and are willing to carry out considerable endeavours on behalf of the Party that are not necessarily driven just by prospects of personal gain. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
Ten transgender truths for legislators and concerned citizens By Selwyn Duke

Whether youre a lawmaker considering a bathroom bill or some other transgender-oriented legislation, or a citizen pondering a vote influencing the matter, you need the facts. The following are 10 transgender truths: There is no sound science behind the transgender agenda. No expert can point to any physiological markers, in any given case, proving that at issue is a biological phenomenon and not a purely psychological one.

The transgender diagnosis is based purely on feelings relating to whats called strong cross-gender identification. Its no different from a cardiologist performing bypass surgery on a patient  without conducting any medical tests confirming heart diseases presence  based solely on the person claiming he feels as if he has clogged arteries. Yet on this basis alone a psychiatrist may recommend that a child live as a member of the opposite sex and even, at some point, have body-rending gender-reassignment surgery (read: mutilation).

Strong cross-gender identification is defined as gender dysphoria. There is also species dysphoria  the sense of being an animal stuck in a human body  and Body Integrity Identity Disorder (BIID), the strong sense that a body part or parts dont belong on/in ones body (e.g., legs, eyes). All three disorders are defined by feelings. Theres no more proof that gender dysphoria has a biological basis than there is that species dysphoria or BIID does.

Yet it wouldnt matter if there were. Many abnormalities are inborn, such as Down syndrome, cleft palate, spina bifida and sickle-cell anemia. Anomalies are the exception proving the rule of normalcy; moreover, biology doesnt determine morality.

To re-engineer society (e.g., open bathrooms to the opposite sex) based on transgender claims is to subordinate the feelings of the vast majority of the population to the feelings of less than one percent of it.

Proponents of transgender bathroom social engineering argue that such people have been using the opposite sexs facilities for decades without raising objections. Yet this only proves that these individuals  who convincingly pass as the opposite sex  dont need a law to gain access. Conclusion: The push to open bathrooms isnt mainly about access; its about changing the way people think. Social engineering is the goal.

Some of those pushing transgender bathroom social engineering are autogynephiliacs: Men who derive sexual pleasure from dressing as women. They can be confused with those genuinely gender dysphoric, despite having a different disorder. Such people likely constitute an inordinate percentage of those accessing the opposite-sexs bathrooms and committing sexual abuse.

Telling school children its normal to live as the opposite sex is child abuse. Its as if we told them its normal to be species dysphoric and live as an animal: It warps their sense of reality.

Allowing men claiming woman status into womens athletic events, on the basis that hormone-replacement therapy eliminates any natural advantage, reflects ignorance. The intersex sports-performance gap is profound  the mile record for 15-year-old boys is better than the womens world record. And boys running records surpass those for girls even among prepubescent children. Allowing trans men into womens competitions is no different from permitting a 20-stone heavyweight to box as a lightweight because he identifies as a 135-pounder.

Gender and sex arent synonymous. Even psychologists will tell you that sex is a biological distinction while gender is merely your perception of what you are. In reality, gender should only be applied to grammatical classifications (as it used to be). The quality of being male or female is properly known as sex. Prejudice means to pre-judge and is defined as an opinion formed beforehand, esp an unfavourable one based on inadequate facts. For policy to not be based not on prejudice but principle, we must arm ourselves with the facts. Contact Selwyn Duke, follow him on Twitter or log on to SelwynDuke.com. Home
Trap the Devil

By Ben Coes

St. Martins Press

HC, 496 pgs. US$26.99

ISBN: 1-2500-4318-2 When the shark becomes the prey By Steven Martinovich

The general consensus was that the male version of the female romance novel, namely the techno-thriller, would eventually sputter to death thanks to the fall of the Soviet Union and the general lack of a near-peer power rival for the United States. Two decades later and the genre is stronger than ever thanks to fears over Chinese expansionism, transnational terrorist organizations seemingly able to reach anywhere and the rise of Orwellian surveillance states, among others. These must be good days to be a techno-thriller author. Of late, not surprisingly, the primary focus of many of these novels has been the shadowy world Islamist terrorism, seemingly able to smuggle nuclear weapons anywhere, assassinate anyone and strike fear into the hearts of even the most secure. Ben Coes entertaining Trap the Devil is one of those rare books these days where the villains arent of Middle Eastern extraction, but rather Americans seeking their annihilation. Coes, who interned in the Reagan White House and served as speechwriter former U.S. Secretary of Energy James D. Watkins, brings back his former Delta Force hero Dewey Andreas to stop a plot that goes very nearly to the top of Americas government. Trap the Devil kicks off in the late 1970s when high-ranking CIA officer Charles Bruners child is killed in a bomb attack in Madrid by a Saudi terrorist. Not long after, legendary CIA boss William Casey brings him in on a secret project designed to provide an extra layer of protection for the president and strike out proactively against terrorist movements anywhere in the world. Over time Bruners anger transform the program into a sword he desires to use to literally destroy Islam by taking over the U.S. government and using its full resources  with all that implies  to destroying its adherents. Simply put, Bruner and his cabal want to murder virtually every Muslim on the planet. One must admire the scale of Bruners ambitions though not the goal itself. Standing in his way is the wife of one of the primary conspirators who has overheard the plot, and Andreas, dragged into the mess simply by being at the right place at the wrong time. Complicating matters for Andreas is that hes been framed by the secret group as the killer of the Secretary of State in Paris. And thanks to his previous covert work that stopped numerous nefarious plots, Andreas status as a wanted man has attracted the attention of an assortment of frustrated and angry terrorist groups and state operatives who crave the chance for revenge and adding his scalp to their collections. From there Andreas is on the run, a bit of an odd turn for the master predator, relying powerful friends in the American intelligence community and some old friends of uncertain allegiance. Tracking the mysterious woman while evading their pursuers, Andreas races across much of Europe uncertain if the killing of the Secretary of State was a simple murder or part of larger mysterious whole. Given the quality of those after him, who outside of regular police unware of the whole story, many of whom are former black ops operatives like Andreas, the answer should have probably been quite obvious to him. Trap the Devil cannot be accused of wasting time and ink  it moves with a speed that would strain your neck if it were a car. There are some occasional moments that raise an eyebrow, such as Coes description of the functioning of well-known firearms and physical feats that seem unmoored from reality, but overall it is a fun summer read that successfully checks the boxes of operatives managing the impossible, plots that much be disrupted, and a world that once again needs saving. Dewey Andreas is back and his seventh literary foray shows that hes as lethal, taciturn and effective as ever. Steve Martinovich is the founder and editor of Enter Stage Right. Home
Monday 19 June 2017, New Delhi, India  Dr. Francesco Sette, Director General, ESRF (European Synchrotron Radiation Facility based in Grenoble, France), and Prof. Sudhanshu Vrati, Executive Director, Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), officially signed a three-year collaboration agreement in the presence of Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Science & Technology. Backed by the Government of Indias Department of Biotechnology, this agreement sees India become the 22nd country to join the ESRF, with a level of participation of 0.66%.

This agreement represents a decisive milestone in the long-standing and strong collaboration between the ESRF and the Indian scientific community. It will provide access to the ESRF for Indian scientists for non-proprietary research, with a focus on structural biology.

The Minister chaired the signing ceremony which was followed by speeches given by Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, Prof. Sudhanshu Vrati, Dr. Francesco Sette, Dr. Dinakar M. Salunke, Director of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, and by distinguished members of the structural biology community in India.

This agreement reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the ESRF and the Indian scientific community in the field of synchrotron radiation that has been increasing steadily over recent years. In December 2009, the ESRF and Indias National Institute of Immunology (NII) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), enabling the Indian macromolecular crystallography community to share the use of the ESRF beamline BM14 by the NII, in collaboration with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL). This joint venture lasted seven years until end of 2016. During this time, service was provided to many scientific groups from all over the world, but in particular to Indian science: 58 groups from 34 Indian research institutes carried out on BM14 several hundreds of experiments publishing over 400 papers on highly rated peer reviewed scientific journals.

This new agreement will give Indian scientists access to the ESRF for non-proprietary research, with a focus on structural biology, at a critical time when the facility is preparing for the launch of a new and revolutionary light source, the Extremely Brilliant Source (EBS), in 2020. The EBS source will enable, with its unprecedented performances, discoveries in living matter and material research to the benefit of human knowledge, and progress in health, environment and innovative technology challenges.

Prof. Sudhanshu Vrati: Im confident that this new agreement will lead to exciting new discoveries and nucleate other scientific collaborations between India and Europe.

Prof. Dinakar Salunke, Director of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of New Delhi: I would like to express my satisfaction for this important step. The ESRF partnership has opened the gates to more challenging problems to be addressed in Biology.

Dr. Francesco Sette, ESRF Director General: Im very pleased and honoured by the decision of India to join the ESRF, and in particular, its forefront structural biology programme. The ESRF community will greatly benefit from the collaboration with the vibrant Indian scientific community.

H.E. Mr Alexandre Ziegler, Ambassador of France to India:  I warmly congratulate India in becoming the 22nd member of the ESRF. It is a great opportunity for Indian researchers to access a world-class research facility based in Grenoble, France and get a unique exposure to a high-performing and multinational research environment. This agreement will not only contribute to consolidate our long-lasting and fruitful cooperation, but will also open the way to new potential breakthroughs in science.

About the ESRF:
Dozens of the richest executives in China have disappeared under mysterious circumstances and are assumed to be in police detention as the country pursues an aggressive anti-corruption agenda.



A few have reappeared after unexplained absences, like Metersbonwe fashion exec Zhou Chengjian (estimated worth, $4B), who disappeared for a week in January, then reappeared. Others, like Wu Xiaohui  Chairman of the Anbang Insurance Group Co, which owns the Waldorf Astoria New York  have not reappeared from detention. Still others have only reappeared through their death-notices.



Guo Guangchang



Guo Guangchang, the chairman of the private-sector conglomerate Fosun, which owns the resort company Club Med and Cirque du Soleil, disappeared in December 2015. Company officials said in a statement that Guo had been "assisting in certain investigations carried out by judicial authorities," according to CNBC. The executive, who reportedly has a personal fortune of close to $10 billion, subsequently reappeared at a company meeting in Shanghai. No further explanation was given for his temporary absence. Yang Zezhu In January 2016, Yang Zezhu, a prominent banker and former chairman of the Chinese brokerage Changjiang Securities, fell to his death from the 12th floor of a building in China's Wuhan city. According to Human Rights Watch, it is unclear whether Yang, who had been under investigation for corruption, was free at the time of his death, or had been detained by the authorities. Reuters reported that Yang had left a suicide note.

Some of China's richest and most powerful men have mysteriously vanished

[Ann M. Simmons/LA Times]





(via Beyond the Beyond)
Europol, the EUs law enforcement agency, said that the number of people arrested on the charges of suspicion of Islamic terrorism in Europe went up last year for the third year in a row. The agency arrested more than 700 terror suspects compared to 687 in 2015 and 395 in 2014. An Europol report also said that the number of jihadist attacks decreased from 17 in 2015 to 13 last year of which 6 were linked to the Islamic State.

The report EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report further added that there had been a rise in violent attacks of non-Islamic right-wing groups. Europol said that last year there was a total of 142 failed, foiled and completed attacks reported by eight member states coming from all jihadist, non-jihadist and other sources. According to the report, the largest number of the attacks was carried out by ethno-nationalist and separatist extremists while attacks by left-wing extremists have been on the rise since 2014.

The EUs Commissioner for the Security Union, Julian King, said the number underlines the importance of tighter collaboration in intelligence sharing. Terrorists do not respect or recognize borders, he said and added that an important development in the area of counter-terrorism policy is the fact that women are playing an increasingly important role in extremist attacks. Female militant jihadists in the West perceive fewer obstacles to playing an operative role in a terrorist attack than men, and successful or prevented attacks carried out by women in Western countries may act as an inspiration to others, the report said.
Written by ACM



*Strasbourg/Press Club/Angelo Marcopolo/- Vice-President of EU Parliament's Committee for NATO, and Rapporteur on Common Foreign/Security Policy, as well as "Dual Use" assets, Experienced former Chairman of EU Parliament's Security/Defense Committee, Arnaud Danjean, a Top MEP of French Main Opposition "Republican" Party (ChristianDemocrats/EPP), Replying to an "Eurofora" Question on the Recent Developments about BREXIT and the Need for Europe to develop an Efficient Security/Defense policy asap, appeared well Aware , but quite Optimist, about both Timing and Strategic issues :



- "Eurofora", particularly, pointed at the Latest Events which have apparently extended some Uncertainties, at least about the Precise Timing of the forthcoming Next Moves for the relevant EU - UK Negotiations. (Evoking mainly the Unexpected Outcome of June 8 UK Elections, the Manchester and twice London Islamist Terrorist Attacks, cowardly Targetting and Killing Civilians, followed by the Grenfell Tower's tragedy of more than 50 People killed in a huge Fire allegedly provoked by Electricity Incidents during Overload at a Key Moment of Muslim Ramadan, whose rituals recently spread in London City). I.e. just Before Next Monday's, 19 June initialy Scheduled, Official Opening of EU - UK BREXIT Talks in Brussels, (etc).



In this Context, we Asked Danjean if he Believed that the EU would, despite all that, Succeed to Foster asap a Strong enough European Security/Defense Policy withOut more Undue Delays, eventualy using also Alternative ways for EU-27 format Heads of State/Government a.o. Meetings, (f.ex. as Recently at Bratislava and Rome and Brussels 9/2016, 3/2017 + 4/2017 Summits : Comp. "Eurofora"'s NewsReports from the spots, etc), and any other adequate mechanism for that purpose. BREXIT, by theoreticaly giving some More Play, particularly, to the Franco-German couple and other Wiiling to move EU Stats (f.ex, Spain, Italy, Poland, etc), wouldn't be both a Callenge and an Opportunity, particularly on ESDP issues ?", "Eurofora pointed out in this regard.



The event took place during a Press Conference organized at Strasbourg's Press Club, and with the Active Participation of Many Journalists, particularly those usualy Covering EU Parliament's related activities.



--------------------



- "On BREXIT, I know that there has been a Kind of Enthousiasm, in some European circles, saying f.ex. that, once the British would have gone, we'll Advance much Faster, as far as Defense is concerned", he reminded from the outset.



- But, that "Partly True, Partly False !", Danjean Warned.



- "It's true, that, Cosmeticaly, a certain Number of (EU) Decisions, are Easier to be Taken withOut the Brittish :"



- "We shaw it, f.ex., in the Creation of that small European Structure for the Planification and the Conduct of Operations, a kind of European HQ (Etat Major) : It's True that, there, it was the UK which was Blocking", he reminded. "Very well : That, is a UnQuestionable Success, and it was, indeed, Facilitated by the BREXIT", he acknowledged".



- "However, in the Long Run, I'm much Less affirmative", inter alia, also "Because the British were Not the only ones who Blocked and Hesitated : Once they will be Gone, we (EU) are going to Find that, in fact, there were also Other Countries which were Hidding themselves Behind the Brittish Refusals, too opportunisticaly...(which Suited them)... F.ex. the Swedish, sometimes the Polish, etc."



- "So that we (EU) are going to Face Different, or even Similar Dificulties, but vis a vis Other Partners", he Warned, for the foreseable Future. And, "while it was Easy, in the Past, to systematicaly Blame the Brittish : something quite Conveniant, this will No more be possible", also Later-on : "We will have to take our Responsibilities", Danjean Warned.



+ A"2nd Point, which also Alleviates the BREXIT's (supposed) Virtues concerning (EU) Defense, is that England -whether we Like it, or not, and even if one might Discuss its current Military Capabilities- still Remains, However, Together with France, one of the Main Military Components in Europe" !"

- "So that, if you Want to Develop something Ambitious in Europe, in the Military Field, while pushing the British aside, this does Not seem very Realistic, at least Not in the Long Run....", he Denounced.



- "But, what are going to do the Brittish in the Future, it depends on them... "



- However, "As we (France) already have Bilateral Deals with the UK" (on SDP), "which are Not Affected at all by the BREXIT", "I also Hope that, very Soon, it will also Become Possible for the EU, Collectively, to make Similar Arrangements "ad hoc", in order to Continue Working Together".



- "I'm Not very Anxious" about that, "Because the Common Security and Defense Policy is something Very Flexible", so that "Cooperation with 3rd Countries, in CFSP, is Not so much Complicated. And we (EU) are always Happy to have such Deals with 3rd Countries, which Cooperate in several Operations", he explained.



+ Now, "concerning, specifically, Security issues, such as Counter-Terrorism operations, etc., I think that Nobody should Play Games to provoke Fear, particularly just after the Manchester Massacre" : In fact, "the Franco-Brittisj Cooperation is Strong, and Will remain Strong" also in the Future, Because it does Not pass through Brussels !", the Experienced MEP pointed out.



- "This is Only done, Formally, in very Few Cases, Just for some Small Segments - Such as "EuroPol, f.ex., which is going to be Affected by BREXIT, as well as Other EU Agencies. But, there too, "EuroPol" has several Cooperations with Other Countries, where it Integrates, very Rapidly, also 3rd Countries : F.ex. the USA Participate in EuroPol !. So, it wan't be so Difficult to have also the English there, who are Europeans", he indicated.



- In general "Anti-Terror Cooperation goes mainly through (National) Capitals, Not Brussels, and, therefore, it woN't be very seriously Affected by BREXIT, and that's Good !", Danjean concluded on that point.



+ "The Essential Questions, therefore, are mainly Political :"



- "First, when Europeans are Blocked, as far as Their own Will on Defense Issues is concerned", (Comp. Supra), "that's the Time of Truth : they won't be, no more, able to Hide themselves behind the English, (as we've already seen Before)"....



- "Second, I think that it's the British' own Interest to Continue in Contributing" to Europe's "Security/Defense Policy. And, I might be in Error, perhaps the Future might Belie me, but, I Bet that the Brittish are sufficiently Pragmatic, in order to Respond Positively, if we (EU) Mark some real Successes in the area of Defense". So that, "If the European Defense makes certain real Advances, I'm sure that the Brittish would like to Take a Part in that, in One Way, or AnOther", Danjean optimisticaly foresaw.



- "F.ex., among some Modest, but Interesting Precedents in EU Security/Defense Policy, is also that of 2008, when Spain and France wished to Launch an Anti-Piracy operation around the Somalian Coasts, (i.e. near Suez Channel) : While it was, initialy, Spain and France who were Pushing in that direction, the British appearing UnWilling, nevertheless, it was Inconceivable for Great Britain, that a Franco-Spanish Maritime Operation might Work, withOut the UK ! So that, when it became a Success, not only they (the British) Started to Participate, but they (the UK) even... Took Over that Operation's HeadQuarters !", he reminded.



+ "Moreover, while the British, almost always, systematicaly Complaint against any EU's common Security and Defense Policy, nevertheless, whenever EU goes on with such an ESDP operation, almost Always, at a Key Position, there is a British Officer coming and going around there !", Danjean made People spontaneously laugh.. "Some might Claim that this culd, perhaps, be attempts to Sabotage. But, I'd say, Optimisticaly, that they just Want to Know what's going on : If they (the British) See something which really Works, then, they would like to Contribute into that", he concluded.



>>> "But, from Now on, it will be upon us (the EU) to Prove that it Can Work !", the Experienced Top MEP Warned.



Timely, Danjean's observations came just before an important EU Summit in Brussels, Next Week, which is due to Focus also on CFSP.



+Meanwhile, it's also "EURO-CORPS", the European Army HQ Organisation, based in Strasbourg, with Main Partners : France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg and Poland, as well as Liaison Officers from Italy, Greece, and Other Countries, (that has already been entrusted with Missions to Kosovo, Afghanistan, Mali, etc), which is due to Officialy Celebrate its 25th Anniversary, at the Beginning of September 2017, on the occasion of the transfert of its Rotating Presidency from Spain to Germany, for 1 Year, (9/2017-8/2018), "Eurofora" was informed.

(../..)





------------------------

***

(NDLR : Fast Translation from the Original in French)



+

("DraftNews", as already send to "Eurofora" Subscribers/Donors, earlier. A more accurate, full Final Version, might be published asap).


As the official talks on Brexit get underway between the UK and the European Union, calls continue for the future of expats across the region to be a top priority.Expats in the UK are concerned about their future in terms of pensions, healthcare and tax, while EU citizens living in Britain are also worried about their future rights.Time and time again expat groups, politicians and think tanks have urged both sides in the talks to get on with discussing citizen rights to alleviate the anxiety of millions of people who have chosen to make their life in another country.Lady Helena Kennedy, a qualified QC who chairs the House of Lords Committee in the UK investigating the rights of EU and British citizens has advised them to make sure they can prove they had a life in the country where they are living before June 2016 when the referendum vote took place.Make a file with proof of your presence and supporting letters from people whove known you, you have taught you or who you have had business dealings with, she said.It is though that about two million British expats life in the EU, the majority in Spain, France, Italy and Ireland, although every EU state has a British expat community.A lot of EU citizens work in the health service in the UK and the Cavendish Coalition of Health Authorities is warning that there could be a rush to leave if the terms agreed in the Brexit talks are not favourable for them, compounding a situation where many hospitals have multiple vacancies, especially in areas such as nursing.The group reckons workers from the EU make up around 5% of hospital staff and social service carers. Quickly confirming the right to remain for EU nationals currently working in social care and health across the UK removes the uncertainty and anxiety for individuals and their families and mitigates the risk of staff leaving, said a spokesman.The European Commission has made it clear that it wants the first talks to focus on the status of expats and this, along with other issues such as the so called divorce bill and the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland should be concluded before talks begin in a trade deal. The UK wants trade deal talks to run at the same time.
Hi everyone! I am gearing up to apply for a marriage visa (switching from Tier 2) in the next few weeks. For the 'proof of living together' bit, do credit card statements count as part of the acceptable types of correspondence?



Here is what we're planning to submit, does this look strong enough? We unfortunately don't directly pay many of the bills, so slightly struggling here.



Items of correspondence (living together from May 2017)



 Joint:

1 x Tenancy Agreement (8 June 2017  7 June 2018)



 Addressed to Applicant:

1 x Bank statement (9/5/2017)

1 x Pension statement (31/5/17)

1 x Bank statement (6/6/2017)

1 x Letter from DVLA (13/6/2017)

1 x Credit card statement (13/6/17) (or should I switch this one with someone else - potentially an internet bill?)



 Addressed to Sponsor:

1 x Bank statement (4/5/17)

1 x Electoral registration confirmation letter (10/5/17)

1 x Bank letter (22/5/17)

1 x Dental treatment invoice (25/5/2017)

1 x Poll Card (8/6/17)



Thanks!
The NSO Group is an Israeli firm that describes itself as a "cyber warfare" company, dealing exclusively to governments, including the famously corrupt and dysfunctional government of Mexico. The NSO Group is presently for sale, with a $1 billion pricetag.



Earlier this year, NSO Group malware was used to target Mexican soda-tax activists agitating for curbs on the amount of sugar in Mexican soft drinks.





Now, Citizen Lab reports that the NSO Group's exploit framework was used in an extensive campaign against anti-corruption activists and lawyers, and was even implanted on a child's computer.





The NSO Group's weapons came disguised as legitimate communications, including messages from the Embassy of the United States of America to Mexico and AMBER Alerts about abducted children.



The timeline shows at least two periods of intense targeting that our collaborators have connected to key events in Mexican politics. * Period 1 (August 2015) During this period the Mexican President was officially exonerated for his role in the "Casa Blanca" scandal on which Carmen Aristegui had first reported, and Carlos Loret de Mola was questioning the government's role in extrajudicial killings. *

Period 2 (April- July 2016): A range of key events concerning revelations of government involvement in human rights abuses and extra-judicial killings, and questions around official accounts happened during this time frame. Revelations of bribery and counter-lawsuits, and lawmaking around corruption and government accountability also occurred around this period. Even more disturbing, we have determined that the minor child of at least one target was also sent upsetting messages with NSO exploit links, presumably in attempt to spy on the child's mother. In addition, at least one target was located within the United States during some of infection attempts. The NSO Group, which is reportedly being offered for sale at a price of one billion dollars, claims that its products are restricted "to authorized government agencies." We have no conclusive evidence attributing these messages to specific government agencies in Mexico. However, circumstantial evidence suggests that one or more governmental of NSO's government customers in Mexico are the likely operators.

Reckless Exploit: Mexican Journalists, Lawyers, and a Child Targeted with NSO Spyware

[John Scott-Railton, Bill Marczak, Bahr Abdulrazzak, Masashi Crete-Nishihata, and Ron Deibert/Citizen Lab]
The commercial begins before dawn. A man rubs his eyes as he gets out of bed, peeking out the window at the cascading rain. He washes his face, pours a cup of coffee and glances lovingly at his sleeping child before heading out. The only headlights on the highway are his own as he drives through the darkness. As the sun rises, he pulls his van into the driveway of someone elses house. The nature of this mans work is finally revealed.

Its the cable guy.

And not just any cable guy: Hes the Time Warner Cable guy. You know, the guy who is scheduled to show up anytime between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., forcing you to work from home (if you even can) and never leave until he shows up. That guy.

Well, hes the Spectrum guy now. Acquired by Charter Communications Inc. in 2016, Time Warner Cable was officially rebranded this year. It has long carried a reputation of abysmal service, leaving hordes of dissatisfied customers frustrated with fee increases, spotty connections and the dreaded service call.

Now, tales of woe have become expressions of joy. There have been customer cord-cutting calls that ended with package deals at bargain prices, along with chitchat from Spectrum help desk operators bordering on the saccharine. But most prominently, the cable company has unleashed an advertising blitz to erase the Time Warner Cable name from the collective memory. One commercial features diligent workers laying down cable on the side of the road. Another follows harried parents who find comfort in their reliable internet service. And theres even one with a three-armed John Stamos using multiple devices in a posh home.

A representative for Spectrum declined to comment on its marketing strategy, but even a makeover of New York Citys beloved local cable news station, New York 1, seemed well received, though it came with some painful layoffs.

Before Spectrum took over, things had gotten bad for Time Warner Cable. Last summer, one state regulator sent a letter to Charters CEO urging him to clean up the broadband providers act. An investigation suggested that Time Warner Cable has earned the miserable reputation it enjoys among consumers, Tim Wu, senior enforcement counsel and special adviser to New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, told Charter CEO Tom Rutledge. Overcoming this history will require more than a name change; it will require a fundamental revolution in how Time Warner Cable does business and treats its customers.

With Charter in charge and the corresponding branding shift, consumer perception headed skyward, according to data from researcher YouGov BrandIndex. Each weekday, the company interviews 4,800 individuals from a representative panel of 1.8 million people.

Customer satisfaction spiked in the months after the transition was completed in January, reaching levels close to rival Verizon FiOS, though now it seems that the immediate bump Spectrum experienced after the rebranding is fading. Just changing your name from Time Warner Cable may no longer be enough.

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.

There was a lot of baggage with the Time Warner Cable brand, said Ted Marzilli, CEO of BrandIndex. With the acquisition, it gave them the opportunity for a bit of a fresh start.

Charters extra effort also stems from an industrywide reality. Mounting pressure from such streaming services as Netflix Inc. and Hulu LLC is forcing the old cable companies to change, Marzilli said. All of a sudden, there are enticing alternatives, and if subscribers have had bad experiences with a cable provider, theyre less reluctant to cut the cord.

Its unclear how much of the public actually knows that Spectrum used to be Time Warner Cable. A YouGov Omnibus survey in March showed that 53 percent of adults werent aware that Time Warner Cable had changed its name. A chunk of those who did know, some 17 percent, said their opinion of the brand had improved after the switch.

Nevertheless, customer retention is a concern for Charter as it continues to integrate its businesses. Time Warner Cables residential video customers fell 3.2 percent over the past year. Spectrum has stopped using the confusing package pricing Time Warner Cable once touted.
Its been a wild and, at times, bumpy ride for NuStar Energy President and CEO Brad Barron since he assumed his position in January 2014  six months before oil hit a 13-year high, only to crash 20 months later.

Barron inherited a pipeline company that, even at oils peak, hadnt been able to cover its full payout to investors for more than two years. As a master limited partnership, NuStar is supposed to distribute all excess cash to investors and hadnt done so for nine quarters prior to Barrons promotion.

He was part of the executive team at Valero Corp. that formed NuStar when it was spun off in 2006. He rose up through the ranks as a lawyer at both companies to general counsel at NuStar before being tapped as CEO.

The run-up in oil prices left portions of South Texas pockmarked with drilling rigs and a need for pipelines to transport all the crude from the Eagle Ford Shale field.

Shortly after taking the helm, Baron expanded the pipeline network and restored the companys payout  even as crude plunged from $107 a barrel in June 2014 to $26 a barrel in February 2016.

More Information Quick facts on Brad Barron How do you typically start your day?: If I'm out at my ranch, morning starts about 5 a.m. It's really just get up, grab a cup of coffee and head this way. If I'm here in San Antonio, it's a little bit different. It's usually get up, work out. I try to be in the office by 7:30; that's a little bit late for here. A lot of people start their day at about 7 a.m. here. That's a holdover from the refining culture where the shift change is pretty early. What was your first paid job: Working at H-E-B in the produce department in high school. What book are you reading right now?: "Inside of a Dog" by Alexandra Horowitz. If you could have a career do-over in an entirely different industry, what would it be: University professor, likely in philosophy. What is your passion or hobby outside of work?: Hunting and photography. See More Collapse

In April, Barron embarked on the companys first major expansion in years when NuStar acquired a West Texas pipeline and storage system for $1.5 billion in the heart of the hot Permian Basin oil field.

Barron, 51, sat down with the Express-News in his top-floor office at NuStars offices on the North Side to discuss how the company is digesting its largest acquisition in years. Heres an edited transcript of the interview:

Q: When you took over as president and CEO at the beginning of 2014, what was the shape of NuStar then, and what changes did you make at that time?

A: Master limited partnerships, usually by their partnership agreement, are required to distribute all of their available cash. MLPs are often graded on the strength of their coverage, and NuStar had not been covering its distribution for quite a while.

My goal was to get back to one-to-one distribution coverage. What I wanted to do was to just lay out the situation very clearly to our employees of this is where we are, and this is where we need to get to.

Shortly after I took over, we had a management meeting and showed employees: This is what our financial situation is, this is where we need to go, this is what distribution coverage means. I laid out how much we need to make, and we communicated that to every single employee in the company. Then we set the employees bonus on that distribution number, which was $392 million.

What I told the employees was we will make $392 million, and that goes to the unit holders. Every dollar above that goes to your bonus until we get 100 percent bonus and then we will split the remainder between the employees and the unit holders. The employees immediately got it.

Q: Is finding hard workers something you emphasize at NuStar?

A: It is almost foundational here. You dont see anyone here who isnt a hard worker. You would not be happy here if you werent a hard worker. Do you look for it? Youre surrounded by it. Im surrounded by it all day. Pretty much everybody that I work with, everyone here is a hard worker.

Q: How do you think your work as general counsel for NuStar and, previously, for Valero influenced the decision to promote you to president and CEO?

A: I would guess thats probably why I was tapped because I had worked so closely with so many departments, and so I had a broad understanding of the nuts and bolts of what goes on in NuStar. Human resources reported to me at one time, real estate and right of way, ad valorem tax, so you get a broad understanding of whats happening in the company. Now, as CEO, you cant be that involved in the details, but I still think its very important to understand what goes on at every level of the organization.

Q: Since you came on as CEO, many things have changed. How have you navigated the last three years?

A: An analyst once said they felt bad for me. I asked why and they said, You only got to be CEO for six months since the crash and since that time weve been navigating through this crash.

Weve been able to weather that storm because we got back to our core business and havent been overly reliant on anything. One of the strengths of NuStar is our diversity  if you look at NuStar, were almost equally divided, 50-50, between pipelines and terminals.

Weve been a little bit insulated in the Eagle Ford because we have take-or-pay commitments on those pipelines down there. Our pipelines peaked out at 195,000 barrels a day, and our take-or-pay commitments are at 135,000. Actual volumes are running at 110,000. Its not the biggest part of our business; its the one that gets the most focus or has until our move into the Permian, but its really only about 15 percent of our EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization), so were really insulated with all the other stuff that we do.

Q: NuStar loaded the first U.S. crude oil in nearly four decades destined for a foreign port in 2015. Where do exports fit for NuStar?

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.

A: The age-old question is how do you compete  on price, service, offerings. One of the ways that weve been able to compete in South Texas is with our segregations. A lot of producers want their barrel to not mix into a common stream. The way we built our system is we can handle a lot of segregations coming down, which means we can load ships for people with a particular grade going to a particular location.

I didnt think the crude export ban was going to get lifted as early as it did; I thought there would be some sort of exception for condensates just to clear that market, but to see the whole thing get lifted the way it did was a shock, I think, to most people. We were fortunate in that we were building our system to take advantage of that if it did come. I think its a huge opportunity for NuStar and not just Eagle Ford barrels but Permian barrels.

Q: NuStar entered West Texas Permian Basin oil field through the $1.5 billion purchase of Navigator Energy Services pipeline and storage system in April. Why now? Why not earlier?

A: You describe us as a late-comer, I would describe us as a careful comer. (The Permian) is the next big place for growth. We started looking about two years ago.

I cant even tell you how many systems we looked at that we rejected. The Navigator system was perfect for what we wanted. It came with 500,000 dedicated acres. Its location was perfect, it was exactly where we wanted to be. The Midland Basin is not all created the same; not all the rock there is equal. This is the core of the core of the Midland Basin. This is not tier 1 acres; this is premier acreage.

Its an exciting opportunity for us, its the fastest-growing basin anywhere, and I think its going to be the biggest source of midstream logistics growth in the country.

rdruzin@express-news.net

@druz_journo
Yesterday was Fathers Day and all throughout the land, fathers are enjoying traditional gifts from their appreciative families.

They are wearing new ties and looking for things to fix with fancy new tools  gifts from their children who went traditional because Dad is so hard to buy for.

It occurs to me that almost every holiday generates mattress sales even if mattresses are not relevant to the occasions. But Mothers and Fathers days do not. Could the ad practice be rooted in historical inns claims that George Washington slept here?

Elders who were parents remember that they didnt need to replace their mattresses every eight years as recommended because they didnt sleep enough on them to wear them out.

Sleep deprivation begins when parents bring home the new baby, who must be fed at inconvenient times, the more inconvenient the better  for baby that is.

Even if Mom was the only one on night duty, she woke up Dad when she dragged her body off their mattress and stumbled over to the baby crib.

After baby stages pass, children get thirsty, need to go to the bathroom, fall out of bed and have bad dreams as inconveniently as they did during baby nights. Its a miracle that there arent more one-child families.

My husbands kid shift ended at midnight; he was the early rising working parent and needed his sleep. I had wee hours of mornings. The reasoning was I could nap during the day  a thought not reasonable at all in practice because I had the all-day shift, too.

Parents think nighttime emergencies will end when children reach their teens, but parents are optimists; it comes with the job.

Teenage children tend to stay out after dark, which keeps parents from falling asleep until teens are safely snoozing on their own mattresses. The problem is exacerbated once they have drivers licenses.

Some parents may not sleep well after their children leave home for school, military service or just to avoid having curfews that interfere with their social lives.

Its hard to let go and adapt to being Empty Nesters. But time goes on, and everyone gets older, wiser and, if lucky, parents become grandparents.

Granddad can show a grandchild how to fix things with the tools hes collected on Fathers days, and he still may be wearing the old ties because they are still good. Grandmom can tell grandchildren embarrassing tales about their parents.

Holidays come and go; elders may have celebrated a holiday by replacing their old mattresses at a half-price sale but, alas, a good nights sleep is still a luxury.

Elders often recycle child-rearing nightly activities  when they get thirsty, follow the path to the bathroom night light, walk off leg cramps or cant doze off at all when compulsively reviewing whatever they may have forgotten the previous day and what they need to remember for tomorrow.

Life cycles prove the truism that the more things change, the more they remain the same.

Write to Marcy Meffert at P.O. Box 680262, Leon Valley, TX 78268 or email mameffert@yahoo.com Subscribers can go online for current and previous columns at www.expressnews.com/author/marcy-meffert
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As light pours into the bone room at the Coppini Academy of Fine Arts, ghostly white shapes and faces emerge from the gloom. It is here that many of the plaster sketches and models by the schools founder and namesake, Pompeo Coppini, are stored.

Its all the bits and pieces of things hes done, said Charlotte Cox, president of the academy.

Those bits and pieces are part of a considerable legacy. Though he is perhaps not as well-known as might be expected, the sculptors work looms large in San Antonio, most notably - and quite literally - in the form of The Spirit of Sacrifice, the 60-foot tall cenotaph, or hollow tomb, honoring the fallen defenders of the Alamo.

Recently, Coppinis name has been back in the news, with talk of relocating the cenotaph as part of a major makeover of Alamo Plaza. In Austin, the sculptors statue of Confederate President Jefferson Davis recently found a new home at the Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas at Austin after it was removed from UTs Main Mall amid student protests.

Born in 1870 in Moglia, Mantua, Italy, Coppini grew up in Florence, where he studied at the Academia di Belle Arte. In 1896, he immigrated to the United States, arriving in New York with $40 in his pocket and no knowledge of English. Coppini found a modicum of success working as an apprentice to established French and American sculptors, but when the artist got wind of an opportunity in Texas, he packed his bags.

Coppini arrived in San Antonio just after Thanksgiving in 1901. In an oft-quoted passage from his autobiography, the sculptor described his surprise at finding himself in real Italian sunshine, with the same gorgeous blue sky ... the old houses resembling very much the historic villages and small towns of Sicily, or the extreme southern parts of Italy.

Coppini later established studios in Chicago and New York. But he ultimately made San Antonio his permanent home, living here until his death in 1957.

Though the cenotaph is Coppinis major work here, smaller works by the sculptor can be found around the city, including the bronze doors of the Scottish Rite Cathedral; the George Brackenridge statue at the park entrance on Broadway; the Ludwig Mahncke bronze bust across from Mahncke Park on Broadway; the relief over the doors of the Express-News building; and the Atom Allegorical figure at the Institute of Texan Cultures.

Beyond his artistic output, Coppini made an impact on the city, becoming involved in early efforts to preserve the Alamo by discouraging commercial development adjoining the chapel. As leader of a civic mens group called the Knights of Omala  thats Alamo spelled backward  and also known as the Phunny Phellows, he was also instrumental in the early days of Fiesta. In his later years, Coppini headed the art department at Trinity University.

After arriving in San Antonio, Coppini went to work with German sculptor Frank Teich. He was commissioned to model a statue of Jefferson Davis and four Confederate soldiers for a monument on the grounds of the state Capitol. The project was a resounding success.

From there, his career blossomed, said Ben Wright, director for communication at the Briscoe Center and curator of From Commemoration to Education: Pompeo Coppinis Statue of Jefferson Davis, now on view. He became the go-to guy for commemorative statuary.

In all, Coppini created 36 public monuments in the United States, most of them in Texas.

His relevance today is that such a large portion of Texas historic commemorative statuary was done by him and still stands, whether its statues at the University of Austin or the state Capitol or in San Antonio, Wright said.

The reason Coppinis work still stands has everything to do with his skill as a sculptor, Wright said.

A lot of Coppinis work, the relevance is found in the political radioactivity around it rather than the aesthetic quality, he said. However, the aesthetic quality remains salient because the reason some of his most controversial work isnt melted down or put in storage is that its beautiful.

One of his best-known works is the Littlefield Fountain Memorial at UT Austin. The 1933 piece depicts Columbia - the personification of the United States - on the bow of a ship, returning victorious after World War I. She is flanked by an Army soldier and Navy seaman. A trio of mythical creatures that are part horse, part fish surge through the water ahead of the ship.

His work has this sort of Renaissance feel to it, Wright said. I think that kind of look and feel was important to places like San Antonio and Austin, especially campuses like UT Austin, because it lent a sort of Western, educated dynamic to those spaces.

In 1937, Coppini established a studio at 115 Melrose in San Antonio. He needed the space to work on the cenotaph, a commission for the Texas Centennial. Coppini wanted to make the outdoor monument out of bronze. He favored bronze because he felt it would endure, but the architects in charge of the project wanted marble. Ultimately, Coppini was forced to work in stone.

About eight years later, Coppini founded the Classic Arts Fraternity, subsequently renamed the Coppini Academy, in the studio. The light filled room has not changed much since Coppinis day.

It looked just like this, said Cox, standing in the space bathed in natural light from north-facing windows overhead.

There are still crumbling remnants of clay that Coppini used in a storage box beneath a platform where a small replica of the cenotaph and an assortment of portrait busts and other sculpture by the artist and his protege and foster daughter Waldine Tauch are displayed. The studio is used as a classroom.

As a San Antonian and artist, I would have to say Coppinis greatest legacy is leaving his studio to the artists of San Antonio in order to provide a haven for artists to continue the pursuit of classical art studies, Cox said. Coppini believed all art needs to start from classical representational studies before one can attempt the abstract. There is no other place like Coppini Academy in San Antonio, where artists can pay a small fee of $10 and paint and draw from the live model in a classical manner in an artists studio surrounded by the great works of Coppini and Waldine Tauch for inspiration.

Earlier this year, the City Council approved a plan for changes for Alamo Plaza that include moving the cenotaph to a small park near Market Street. Cox and Fran Bixby, vice president of the academy, are dismayed by the possibility.

Im afraid its going to fall apart, Bixby said. And then I had said, Well, we want all the pieces when it falls apart.

In spite of Coppinis Italian roots, Bixby sees him as a son of Texas, one deserving of greater renown than he currently enjoys.

I wish he could come back and give one speech or address to the city and tell us Dont forget this in the future, she said.

lsilva@express-news.net
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Whether San Antonio can both protect its military installations from encroaching development and give residents the power to vote on annexation was at the heart of a state veterans affairs committee hearing Monday that served as a precursor to an upcoming legislative battle over annexation law.

In the air was fear that San Antonios military bases, particularly Camp Bullis in North Bexar County, could be subject to a new round of base realignment and closures, or BRAC.

Annexation is one of the topics Gov. Greg Abbott included on the special-session agenda that begins July 18.

Mondays hearing was convened by the Texas Houses Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee, chaired by state Rep. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio.

Gutierrez had fought to include a military protection amendment in Senate Bill 715, which was filed by state Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels, during the regular session and would have given people the right to vote before a city like San Antonio could annex them.

Cities have regulatory powers, but Texas counties do not, so the thinking is that annexation is one way to ensure better control over development. Gutierrezs amendment was meant to give cities the ability to regulate land use within 5 miles of military bases or whatever buffer is recommended in a military Joint Land Use Study, even if they cant annex an area as readily.

Campbell fought the amendments inclusion, arguing that there are enough measures in place to protect the bases. Detractors also argue that the amendment would give too much power to cities.

Ultimately, the bill died, after Sen. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio, filibustered Campbells legislation in the waning hours of the regular session.

But once annexation overhaul was added to the special session, Gutierrez pushed for the House committee to hold hearings across the state to discuss how changes to annexation law could threaten the closure of several Texas military installations, according to a news release. Other hearings are scheduled for El Paso, Fort Worth, Del Rio and Eagle Pass  all cities with military installations that could be subject to closure.

Many residents who spoke at Mondays hearing called Gutierrezs tactics a type of fearmongering, meant to connect annexation to the potential loss of military bases.

Before the hearing, San Antonio leaders, flanked by dozens of veterans, celebrated San Antonio officially being named Military City, USA. Both Gutierrez and Menendez spoke and referenced Campbells annexation bill.

The hearing stretched for more than five hours. Roughly a dozen advocates for the military spoke, followed by more than three dozen residents. Many residents said they also support the military but want the right to vote on annexation.

At one point, Mike Stewart, a Bexar County homeowner who has aggressively pushed for the right to vote on annexation, asked everyone in the room who supports the right to vote to stand. A large group of people inside the chamber got up from their seats. Then he asked who also supports the military. Everyone remained standing.

But Maj. Gen. Juan G. Ayala, director of San Antonios Office of Military Affairs, spoke in stark, direct terms about whats at stake for the military.

Any decision which would diminish in any way the militarys ability to conduct their missions and threaten installations would not go unnoticed by any future actions by a base realignment and closure group, Ayala said.

Speaking about the importance of enforcing development controls around a base, U.S. Army North attorney Jim Cannizzo discussed the various powers cities have to regulate development that counties dont: San Antonio has a more robust light pollution ordinance than Bexar County, he said, and enforces a tree ordinance that ensures that theres more of a noise and light buffer between the base and houses.

But many speakers pointed to the abundance of intense development thats occurred on the southern edge of Camp Bullis within the San Antonio city limits, particularly The Rim shopping center and the Six Flags of Fiesta Texas theme park north of Loop 1604.

State Rep. Terry Wilson, R-Georgetown, a committee member, also raised concerns about the development and asked many questions about how San Antonio actually enforces its existing regulations.

Ayala said all the development thats happened near the bases is the result of discussions between the military and the city. Development is OK as long as its compatible with an installations mission, he said.

It appeared Monday that there was a chance for compromise: Stewart, the Bexar County resident, said he would support the military protection amendment if he had assurance that the rest of the bill couldnt be killed on a technicality.

Several other residents echoed that sentiment.

Gutierrez urged them all to call Campbell and state Rep. Lyle Larson, another Republican and vocal advocate for annexation overhaul, and express their support for the military carve-out.

We are all for your ability to have the right to vote, Gutierrez said.

Neither Campbell nor Larson attended Mondays hearing.

Stewart said he plans to discuss a possible compromise with Campbell and Larson. But he remains skeptical that a new annexation bill will move through the special session without opposition.

Stewart and other residents also said they wanted counties to have more power to regulate development in unincorporated areas rather than cities. They contended, as they have in rallies and meetings over the past three years, that the citys push to annex parts of Bexar County is simply about money, in that it would gain more property tax revenue.

If you want to become unfriendly to military personnel, charge them extra to live in your city, said resident Clay Hadick, referring to many people who live in his neighborhood in unincorporated Bexar County being veterans.

Last year, the City Council voted to annex an area along Interstate 10 in North Bexar County, near Camp Bullis. The annexation process wont be complete until 2019. If an annexation reform bill passes the special session and is signed into law, it would go into effect Sept. 1 this year and would apply to residents in the I-10 area.

Residents from this I-10 area, including Stewart, have pushed aggressively for passage of Campbells bill.

The council agreed to wait until the year 2034 to annex a highly populated area along U.S. 281, thats just east of Camp Bullis.

Many speakers Monday asked why annexation in this area has been slowed when its so close to the base. But as part of the nonannexation agreement with the U.S. 281 residents, San Antonio officials negotiated several requirements that give the city more control over development in the area; for example, builders will have to adhere to the citys light pollution ordinance.

The city is also looking at annexation in West Bexar County: an area near Loop 1604 and U.S. 90, which is within 5 miles of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, and Alamo Ranch, a large, master-planned development near Loop 1604 and Texas 151 that is outside any military buffer. Residents in Alamo Ranch have formed a nonprofit group, called the Northwest 151 Annexation Board, designed to stop or delay annexation.

However, the city has quietly added another area for consideration, one along Potranco Road west of Loop 1604 and just south of Alamo Ranch.

Deputy City Manager Peter Zanoni said he suggested that the city planning department look at annexing this area because of the rapid growth there.

In light of the expectation that Campbell will again file annexation legislation, its not yet clear when, or if, the city will pursue any of these annexations, Zanoni said.

vdavila@express-news.net

Twitter: @viannadavila
WASHINGTON  The 2020 census may seem far in the future, but Latinos and others with vital interests in population trends fear that lack of funding and new Census Bureau methods could add up to mistakes in the next effort to count every person in America.

Two former census directors said in interviews that they have concerns about lagging preparation and a decision to cancel several test sites because of uncertainty about money from Congress.

Fewer than half of the 700,000 census-takers deployed in the last decennial count, in 2010, will hit the streets next time. Trying to cut costs, the Census Bureau has revised operations, intends to deploy aerial imagery and rely heavily on information from government databases, and, for the first time, give people the option to reply online to survey questions.

Deeply worrisome was how Kenneth Prewitt, Census Bureau director during the Bill Clinton administration, summed up his concerns.

None of these things have been fully tested, even though I think theyve been intelligently designed. Census preparations are not in a position of strength that they need to be in this time of the cycle, said Prewitt, a Columbia University professor and president of the Social Science Research Council.

The 2020 count has big implications for Texas, which stands to gain more U.S. House representation through reapportionment than any other state  at least three and perhaps four seats, election analysts project. Latino leaders fear an undercount of their fast-growing population, and some attribute that potential to political motives.

I am concerned that the president has an unspoken agenda of seeing the Latino count reduced beneath expectations, said Thomas Saenz, president of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

Money, hacking worries

Heavier reliance on the internet  the Census Bureau hopes that 60 percent of households respond online  raises concerns about hacking. The bureau has some 50 IT systems in production or already in use, and integrating those systems has been difficult.

The Government Accountability Office put the 2020 census on its high-risk list, as the investigative arm of Congress did with the last two counts. The GAO declared last month that among its concerns, the Census Bureau needs to address security risks and challenges to secure its systems and data.

Two year ago, hackers affiliated with the loosely aligned group Anonymous broke into a Census Bureau system, stealing data on thousands of federal employees and posting it online.

Money is a big concern. This close to the decennial count, the Census Bureau typically receives a significant boost in its appropriation  a $500 million increase in 2008 and $350 million additionally in 1998. The Trump administration has called for a $27 million increase for 2018, after a budget this year $160 million less than requested.

With the cost of the census soaring  from $16 per household in 1970 to $92 in 2010  Congress warned the Census Bureau not to exceed the overall $12.5 billion cost of the 2010 count.

Thus far, Congress has seemed unsympathetic.

Census Bureau Director John Thompson felt the chill in a House Appropriations oversight hearing last month when he disclosed unwelcome news of a $309 million cost overrun in a contract for data sharing.

Its distressing to see the 2020 census look like its headed in the same direction as the 2010 census, with terrific cost overruns, said U.S. Rep. John Culberson, R-Houston, chairman of the subcommittee in charge of census spending.

Thompson would offer another surprise: Six days after being taken to the woodshed by Republicans and Democrats alike, Thompson, a mild-mannered statistician, announced his resignation, effective June 30, rather than staying through years end as expected.

The message he was getting was that there was going to be no more money, said Steve Murdock, a Texan who headed the Census Bureau in the final year of the George W. Bush administration.

I dont know how it could be done by anyone with less money, given that there are more people in the country and the demand for census information is growing. This is a very bad time to be deciding to significantly limit the budget, said Murdock, a sociology professor at Rice University.

On June 7, 50 organizations, ranging from the city of New York to People for Bikes, wrote to Trump asking him to quickly replace Thompson. The White House has yet to heed that request, leading to worries about a rudderless Census Bureau at a time when Congress must be persuaded to step in.

The bureau referred questions about the upcoming count to the Commerce Department, which pointed to the commerce secretarys recent testimony in front of a Senate panel in which he said the $27 million increase would enable a complete test of the major field operations and IT systems planned for the 2020 census.

Latino concerns

The census is important for reasons beyond the makeup of Congress. Data collected is the basis for decisions at all levels of government, including federal agencies formulas to allocate some $600 billion for major programs, over $43 billion of that to Texas in 2015, according to a recent analysis by Andrew Reamer, a George Washington University research professor.

Economist Ken Fears, the National Association of Realtors housing finance director, referred to the census as the gold standard in the ability to predict trends.

As we move forward, the demographics are going to change dramatically. Were going to have a much more diverse population. Were going to have a large veterans population. And its going to change the dynamic significantly, he said.

Latinos expanding population is the biggest factor in that diversity, and for that reason Latino leaders are pressing to improve on 2010, when follow-up surveys showed that an estimated 700,000 Latinos werent counted.

Drawing on census data, the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) concluded last year that at least 400,000 Latino children 4 or younger were part of that undercount, 75,000 in Texas alone.

With Latinos now the nations second-largest population group, if you dont get the count of Latinos correct, you have a failed census, NALEO President Arturo Vargas said.

Vargas and other Latino leaders worry about a climate of mistrust that took root in the presidential campaign and continues amid a rise in deportations in the administrations toughened immigration policies. That could discourage Latinos from taking part in the online-heavy survey, they said, a decision that would be self-defeating, given the added political power from a growing population.

The thought of filling out everybodys name in your household and then sending it in to the government raises concerns for a number of reasons, Vargas said. Theres always a question of who is going to see this information and who they are going to share it with.

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo, inserted wording in this years budget encouraging the Census Bureau to step up efforts to count people in colonias along the border. Sitting on the Appropriations Committee, he is expected to make the case for more robust bureau funding.

The people of my district have already faced disadvantages from cuts to the Census Bureau. South Texas is growing fast, yet residents of colonias and rural areas here are still often undercounted, he said.

Phil Sparks, who heads the Census Project, made up of dozens of business and advocacy groups, noted that Latinos, African-Americans and Asian-Americans stand to lose the most in a census that fails to get the count right.

The Constitution said there must be a census, but it didnt say it has to be fair and accurate, he said.

blambrecht@express-news.net
A settlement struck last month ended the federal lawsuit that a grocer filed in 2015 against the City of Ingram over its demands that he utilize the municipal wastewater system, but the central conflict remains unresolved.

Contrary to initial indications, the court-approved settlement which saw the citys insurer pay $17,500 to John Sheffield and his attorney did not include a provision that he stop discharging waste from the Ole Ingram Grocery Store into a septic tank.

I never agreed to hook up to the sewer system, said Sheffield, whose lawsuit accused the city of malicious prosecution and defamation, among other alleged misdeeds.

While not spelled out in the agreement struck with the Texas Municipal League, the insurers attorney Scott Tschirhart said Sheffield must abide by a city ordinance adopted in 2013 that requires the owners of property within 200 feet of a sewer line to utilize the system and pay the city $5,000 in connection fees.

Sheffield, whose business is within the distance limit, said he has no plans to comply, setting the stage for another showdown.

He filed the suit after the city prosecuted him  but didnt obtain a conviction  for noncompliance with the ordinance, which carries a penalty for violators of fines of $500 per day of violation.

The city prosecutor at the time said she dismissed the case due to questions raised at trial in November 2013 by Municipal Court Judge Mark Prislovsky about whether Sheffield had received proper notice from the city.

The prosecutor planned then to issue a new notice to Sheffield of the ordinance requirements.

Mark Bosma, who inherited the suit when he was hired last year as Ingrams city administrator, said that he wasnt familiar with details of the prior prosecution and noted that city leaders were not involved in negotiating the lawsuit settlement.

Hes required to follow the ordinance, Bosma said last month of Sheffield.

Richard Ellison, Sheffields lawyer, appeared to back that assessment, saying then in a brief email about the settlement: No agreement that Sheffield not required to connect and pay connection fee.

But Sheffield said hes not going to use the city sewer system.

Bosma said Sheffield was among about 30 merchants he notified by letter in March about the ordinance requirements.

Twelve responded by paying the fee and hooking into the wastewater collection system, Bosma said.

I think a lot of people were just waiting to see what happened with that lawsuit, Bosma said Friday of the holdouts.

Since the 90-day compliance requirement in the ordinance wasnt mentioned in the earlier letter, Bosma plans a secondary mailing soon to the holdouts that lays out the deadline.

If they still refuse to pay the fees and connect, he said, Ill turn it over to legal.

Mayor Brandon Rowan said the City Council had no role in reaching the settlement with Sheffield, nor did they sign off on the terms.

He expressed confidence that the ordinance is legal and enforceable.

Citing the citys failed prosecution of him as a legal precedent, Sheffield said he plans to continue ignoring city demands that he use the sewer system.

There is already law on the specific situation, he said Friday. Ive already defeated them in municipal court.

zeke@express-news.net
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Judy Rhoads scanned her surroundings. She paused to look at her daughter, Cindy Dolder, who drenched her sun hat and striped shirt in a spray of water, and summed up the scene around her in one word.

Its freedom, said Rhoads, 70. I mean, look at her!

Dolder, 40, grinned and shook her head as cool water trickled down her face, before she moved her wheelchair to another spigot in the water park.

The mother and daughter had tried going to water and amusement parks before, but often the lists of restrictions are so long that Dolder, who has cerebral palsy and uses the wheelchair, cant participate.

Its just impossible to get a wheelchair person on a ride, Rhoads said Sunday. This is like a dream come true.

Morgans Wonderland, the only large amusement park in the world designed for people with and without special needs, opened in San Antonio on April 10, 2010. Over the weekend, the parks founder, Gordon Hartman, opened a $17 million water park called Inspiration Island. In addition to tweaking its attractions for people with special needs, it provides specially designed wheelchairs  including a cutting-edge type thats air-powered and waterproof.

More than 600 people attended Saturdays opening of Inspiration Island. Morgans Wonderland, a nonprofit, has had more than 1 million visitors from at least 66 countries and all 50 states since its opening.

In many ways, the water park is like any other. Between its five sections, spigots of water burst from large sea horses and islands of tired-looking starfish. Two large buckets overhead slowly fill and then spill heaps of water. An eight-minute boat ride takes people through a jungle with fake snakes that hiss and cougars that roar.

There are some key differences. The grass is artificial in some areas so clippings dont get caught in the water filtration systems. The drainage is important because all the water is filtered and recirculated. There are no deep pools of water, only ones at surface level for splashing.

Before the buckets dump the water, a ding rings out across the park, notifying those who cant see that it is about to occur. Soon, Hartman said, a whirling signal will be up for those who can see but cant hear. Theres also a pool with 92-degree water for people with muscular conditions who require warmth.

And everywhere, people of all abilities splash and play together. With the barriers that most people with special needs typically experience removed, suddenly everyone is the same  or at least, similar in their difference.

Were not a special needs park, were a park of inclusion, Hartman said. Every child, everybody in San Antonio ought to come to these parks. Theres something thats different here, and its a positive difference.

Hartman named the $35 million amusement park after his daughter, Morgan, who was born with disabilities. After he retired from his job as a land developer in 2005, he started the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation.

To accommodate people who use battery-powered wheelchairs, his organization collaborated with researchers at the University of Pittsburgh to design a substitute called the PneuChair that is still powered on its own  without needing to be pushed around manually  and can go in water.

The four wheelchairs run on compressed air and weigh about 80 pounds, compared with the typical 400 pounds for battery-operated chairs. These also come with bags and apparatuses to protect oxygen tanks, trachea tubes and ventilators, if needed. The four prototypes are the only ones of their kind, and Hartman said they expect to develop six more with further upgrades.

Hartman also is updating the amusement parks wristband technology, which already includes a chip that allows visitors to track each other. Come July, he hopes to have an iPhone application so attendees can keep track of each other on their phones instead of going to designated stations.

The growth doesnt stop there. By 2020, Hartman said, he plans to have two new facilities: A 30,000-square-foot building to replace the current temporary housing of The Academy, which provides life skills and job training on site and is at capacity, and a 70,000-square-foot building called the Socialization and Assistance Center, for those over 21  the age when state and federal funding for people with disabilities ceases.

Shaileen Rodriguez, 18, of Freer said Sunday that she wished that there were more places like these for her brother, Roman, who uses a wheelchair.

Theres not just people like my brother here, theres people like this everywhere, she said. And theres a lot of kids that feel like theyre segregated from everyone else because of who they are and what they were born with.

Tara Wilbanks agreed. Her family was in a car accident about a year ago, and her son Carter, 12, experienced severe body and brain injuries.

Wilbanks said she wished more people understood what it is like to be a person with special needs.

When you have a healthy kid, youre removed from that world, she said. But when youre going through it, its just, so much.

Carters recovery has been dramatic. Just a year ago, he was 66 pounds, nonverbal and dependent on a feeding tube. Now, hes in a wheelchair and is engaged in life, laughing and still hanging out with his best friend, Sisto Gonzalez, 11.

When Wilbanks asked her son if he would be getting better, Carter gave a thumbs-up. And then, slowly and deliberately, he struggled to say what he is working on: Walking and talking.

From the sidelines, Hartman grinned. This is what he lives for. Even in building Morgans Wonderland and Inspiration Island, he took great care in the design and symbolism in its construction.

Theres the lone palm tree that he found on the land before the first park was built. In a symbolic show of inclusion, he took painstaking efforts to preserve it and build Morgans Wonderland around it. The palm tree now sits near the entrance, a testament, to him, to inclusion.

Theres also the recurring image of butterflies painted on the buildings  and at the entrance to the park, theres a large sculpture of two hands reaching out, a butterfly just touching the tip of a finger.

Many of our special needs guests are doing things they thought they couldnt do here, Hartman said. They fly. They soar. Like a butterfly.

sfosterfrau@express-news.net
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In words that would soon prove prophetic, James Jonas III once vowed that despite threats and rising protests against him by residents in Crystal City, he would never voluntarily surrender his dual posts as city manager and city attorney.

Forces bigger than me brought me here, and it will take forces bigger than me to get me out, he declared in November 2015, three months before an FBI raid effectively removed him from office and left him and five others facing multiple public corruption charges.

Today, the other legal shoe will drop, when Jonas and former Crystal City Mayor Ricardo Lopez go on trial in federal court in Del Rio on charges including bribery, wire fraud and conspiracy.

The trial before U.S. District Judge Alia Moses could last two weeks if either of the defendants elects to take the stand.

Federal prosecutors and lawyers for the two men declined to comment.

For Jonas, 56, a down-on-his-luck San Antonio Republican lobbyist back in 2012, when he arrived in Crystal City, the trial represents a final roll of the dice. He faces 18 counts, with some of the offenses carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years.

He and Lopez, 41, are accused of taking bribes and kickbacks from people seeking to do business in Crystal City. Jonas also faces charges of wire fraud and theft of services for allegedly taking money from a special city energy project fund to pay his own salary and other inappropriate expenses.

Four others, including former City Councilmen Rogelio Mata, Roel Mata and Gilbert Urrabazo, have already pleaded guilty, each to a single count of bribery. They are due to be sentenced in December and face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

The sixth person indicted, 8-liner operator Ngoc Tri Nguyen, pleaded guilty to bribery and also awaits sentencing. All four co-defendants are expected to testify against Jonas and Lopez.

According to a recent motion filed by prosecutors, Jonas improperly used city funds to fortify his political base, including helping to pay legal fees of a council member facing criminal charges.

It was essential for defendant Jonas to attempt to keep the majority of the members of the City Council beholden to him. Thus, he readily used city money for council members benefit, reads the pleading.

Crystal City, a low-income community of 7,500 people about 120 miles southwest of San Antonio, is best known for being the birthplace of the Raza Unida Party five decades ago. By any measure, it was an unlikely landing spot for Jonas, who once hobnobbed with Republican heavyweights and corporate clients in Austin and Washington, D.C.

But a bitter divorce, followed by his failure to pay almost $12,000 a month in child support, landed him in Bexar County Jail before he arrived in Crystal City in 2012.

Ahead of more qualified candidates, Jonas was hired as city attorney, a position for which he was unqualified, at the urging of Councilman Rogelio Mata. He soon added the post of city manager, receiving generous raises along the way.

According to his critics, Jonas quickly became the real power at City Hall. At the time of his arrest in February 2016, he was being paid $216,000 annually, a large sum for such a small city.

The trial may shed light on other activities by both defendants.

According to a pleading filed by prosecutors, Jonas embezzled funds from a former employee, embezzled funds from a different business associate, submitted false and inflated bills to Crystal City and other clients, falsely claimed to reside in Crystal City and participated in a potentially fraudulent scheme involving time-share contracts.

The same pleading alleges that former Mayor Lopez knowingly transported an undocumented immigrant from Eagle Pass to Austin, routinely purchased user-quantities of narcotics in Crystal City and elsewhere, illegally possessed firearms while being a user of narcotics, illegally sold a firearm to a convicted felon, harbored a person he knew to be a fugitive, was accused of committing a sexual assault against a city employee, and submitted fraudulent claims to his insurance company.

The allegations may be used for rebuttal or impeachment purposes if either Jonas or Lopez takes the stand, according to the pleading.

Jonas is also accused of tapping a $2.1 million special fund, borrowed for a city energy project, to pay his salary and other inappropriate expenses. The money, which should have been deposited in an escrow account, was instead kept in the citys general fund, according to the indictment.

When upgrades to city water meters, heating and cooling, and lighting were completed in 2015, the city found itself owing more than $765,000 to the contractor, Siemens Industry Inc., because some of the project money had been spent on other things. Most of that debt is still unpaid.

Current City Councilman Richard Diaz, 77, who was active in opposing Jonas, said he left a financial shambles behind.

Were glad theyre going to trial, but this isnt going to be over by a long shot, even after the trial, he said of the citys financial plight.

Weve been trying to get this mess straightened out. It will be a couple of more years before were back on our feet, he said.

jmaccormack@express-news.net
Executives from Google, Apple, Intel, Adobe, and other Silicon Valley tech firms met with Trump and his son-in-law Jared Kushner today, to talk about reducing government waste and improving information technology services.

Trump administration officials in attendance included Mike Pence, Steve Mnuchin andWilbur Ross.

Snip from Reuters:

Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, said before the sessions began that the administration wanted to "unleash the creativity of the private sector to provide citizen services in a way that has never happened before."

He said the administration was scrapping unneeded cyber compliance rules and should be able to consolidate and eliminate the vast majority of the government's 6,100 data centers and move to a cloud-based storage system.

The meeting with nearly 20 chief executives comes as the White House pushes to shrink government, cut federal employees and eliminate regulations. Many business executives are eager to work with the new administration as they face numerous regulatory and other policy issues.

In May, Trump created an American Technology Council, his latest effort since taking office to modernize the U.S. government. He signed a separate order in March to overhaul the federal government and tapped Kushner to lead a White House Office of American Innovation to leverage business ideas and potentially privatize some government functions.

Others attending include Alphabet Inc Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Chairman John Doerr and the CEOs of Microsoft, IBM, Intel, Qualcomm, Oracle, and Adobe, a White House official said on Sunday. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg was invited but could not attend because of a conflict, the company said.
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About 100 taxi drivers at Yellow Cab San Antonio, the citys largest cab company, are refusing to work until the business agrees to lower fees it charges each driver to lease vehicles, pay for insurance and cover other expenses.

A crowd of drivers gathered Monday morning at the companys headquarters on 9600 Interstate 35 near Windcrest to turn in their keys in protest.

We have a lot of expenses, said taxi driver Anwar Beshir, one of the organizers of the walkout. Beshir and others complained that Yellow Cab charges each of them nearly $290 a week  even as business has waned during the summer, when more families are driving to San Antonio for vacations.

The company is also facing stiff competition from ride-hailing companies Lyft and Uber.

So far, most Yellow Cab drivers arent participating in the walkout and service hasnt slowed for customers, said John Bouloubasis, the companys CEO. He said Yellow Cab has nearly 570 active drivers.

While the protesting drivers say theyre on strike, Bouloubasis pointed out theyre not employees; theyre self-employed independent contractors who cant strike. Theyre welcome to show up for work  or not.

We give these drivers plenty of opportunities for trips, Bouloubasis said. He also said the average weekly fees that drivers pay come to $250.

Ive met with the drivers and Ive told them, Hey, theres business out there, he said.

Beshir said business is so bad that many taxi drivers are actually losing money.

Thats why we are coming here, Beshir said.

jtedesco@express-news.net
When Fernando Godinez arrived at the Mexican American Unity Council in 1996, he thought he was closing the almost 30-year-old nonprofit founded by some of the citys top Chicano Movement leaders. A fire that year destroyed it archives in its historic headquarters on the citys West Side, but that wasnt the biggest problem.

We were so dependent on federal funding, said Godinez, its president and CEO. When youre so dependent, you lose sight of who you are.

MAUC survived all of it and will mark its 50th anniversary this year with $60 million in assets. Its now a self-sustaining agency that provides San Antonio with 630 units of affordable housing. The feat is especially critical given that the National Low Income Housing Coalition has determined that a 40-hour, minimum-wage job cannot pay for a one-bedroom apartment anywhere in the country.

MAUCs founders  among them legendary voting activist Willie Velasquez, then-County Judge Albert Pena, former St. Marys president Charlie Cotrell and one-time Raza Unida candidate Mario Compean  used to take their advocacy to the streets to push for change.

They were visionary in wanting MAUC to become a force for economic and political empowerment for the Mexican American population of Texas. Today, you wont find MAUC leading protests or marches, but it remains married to the cause  unswayed from its focus on service to the Latino community. We have not changed our mission or our vision, Godinez says.

Over the years, MAUC has made some hard decisions to ensure it would survive. It cut programs and staff. It closed its charter school, deciding it was a disservice. Every five years, Godinez says, We look at whats not working.

It has been focused on the crisis of affordable housing in San Antonio. In addition to its Palacio del Sol senior complex downtown, it opened the multifamily Los Villas de Merida on the West Side and Stonehouse Apartments on the North Side.

It surveys residents as they move in and provides an array of services based on need, from GED, English as a Second Language and parenting classes to arts, financial literacy, health and nutritional programs.

Godinez says MAUC doesnt evict. If residents lose their jobs, it provides rent assistance and works with utility companies on their behalf. It is a registered partner of the federal food stamp program and assists residents who may not have computer skills but must apply online now.

Advocacy happens in different ways, he says.

Though its has received grants in the past, it relies on its revenue stream. A Ford Foundation grant helped secure its headquarters, which leases office space and has a 70 percent occupancy rate.

As gentrification in the inner city continues, Godinez says the affordable housing crisis will worsen. The city needs to come in and help, he said. The city isnt doing enough.

He wonders sometimes if MAUCs founders would approve of the agencys focus today. They would have realized the change in times, Godinez says. Were just as effective as they were on the front lines.

Cotrell agrees. Affordable housing was a real issue in the 60s and continues, as does inequality and economic standing, he said. MAUCs articles of incorporation addressed the social and economic problems facing indigent Mexican Americans throughout Texas. Godinez wants to stretch MAUCs reach to South Texas.

Theyve remained this long because it has adapted to change well, Cotrell said. MAUC was dedicated to a fundamental set of issues that frankly havent changed a lot.

The Mexican American Unity Council will celebrate its 50th anniversary Oct. 4 at the Witte Museum. At its headquarters Thursday night it will hand out two $5,000 multi-year scholarships to one student each from Lanier and Memorial high schools.

That investment remains important to MAUC, which requires its scholars to perform community service to retain aid. It keeps track of the recipients, too.

Every one, Godinez emphasizes. MAUC knows where they are in their college educations and will see them through the graduation finish line.
AUSTIN  Rep. Lyle Larson saw much of his legislative sessions work go down the drain this year, and he blames it on payback for an ethics bill he championed.

Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed five of the six bills Larson passed, while six of his other measures died a softer death. They passed the House, but Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick didnt refer them to a Senate committee for consideration.

Larson, R-San Antonio, said it was retribution because he had pushed an ethics bill that would have prevented a governor from appointing someone to a board or commission if that person had given the governor a campaign donation of more than $2,500 the previous year.

His bill also would have restricted appointees to giving no more than $2,500 a year while serving.

It was one of the half-dozen Larson bills that died in the Senate without getting a chance at a hearing.

Senators complained of a crush of bills coming over from the House toward the end of the session, but Larson said the Republican lieutenant governor told him that his pay to play measure was the reason his other bills didnt get a chance.

He (Patrick) said, You upset a lot of rich people, which was weirdly honest, Larson told me. He said Patrick told him, If you cant self-fund (a governors race), this is one of the mechanisms you can use to raise a lot of money. Apparently, thats just how it works.

Larson said Patrick also told him that if he were governor and, like Abbott, had tens of millions of dollars in campaign cash on hand, he would have taken my bill and crammed it down the throat of the Texas Senate.

Sherry Sylvester, senior adviser to Patrick, disputed Larsons account.

We dont discuss private conservations, but I will say that Rep. Larsons recollection, which he recounted to you, is not accurate, Sylvester said by email.

She said a large group of House members, including Larson, asked to speak to Patrick about their bills toward the end of the regular session.

She said Patrick explained that after the House passed relatively few bills in the first three months of the session, they sent over almost 700 bills to the Senate in the last month. It was impossible to get them all referred and heard in committee, even after scheduling additional committee meetings.

Rep. Larson is undoubtedly aware that the Senate passed a strong package of ethics reform this session, Sylvester added. She said Patrick wanted to end legislators leaving office and immediately becoming lobbyists but that the House killed that bill along with the major ethics reform legislation requested by Gov. Abbott.

Abbotts office didnt respond to a request for comment.

The Republican governor had a veto message with a policy reason for killing each of Larsons bills, most of which involved water issues.

Larson said he learned of the vetoes from Jay Dyer, Abbotts legislative director, who he said is a friend. I said, I guess the governor didnt like the pay-to-play bill, Larson said. He said, This whole circumstance has been unfortunate.

Dyer didnt make a direct comment about the ethics bill, he said, but Larson thinks the connection is clear.

Its very interesting. Weve got a lieutenant governor and a governor thats being vindictive toward a Republican House member because he filed legislation that everyone in Texas agrees needs to pass in clearing up the pay-to-play problem weve got in the governors office, Larson said.

Abbotts appointees collectively have put more than $8.6 million into his campaign coffers since 2000, the year before he resigned from the Texas Supreme Court to run for attorney general, as the San Antonio Express-News has reported. About a quarter of his appointees were donors as of last year. Abbotts staff has said he picks people whose views are in line with his.

This isnt the first time Larson has pushed legislation that would target the governors office. He has sought, unsuccessfully, to put limits on statewide elected officials; force them to resign if they run for another office long before the end of their term; and make them foot the bill for their security detail on out-of-state trips that are made for personal or political reasons.

Former Gov. Rick Perry, who was the states longest-serving governor and accumulated millions of dollars in security costs while running for president, gave Larson an earful in 2013 over the term limits and security legislation, the lawmaker said. But he vetoed only one of Larsons bills that year.

It was much more comfortable to serve under Gov. Perry than it was under Gov. Abbott, Larson said. Whether you liked the policy or not, he always told you where he was.

pfikac@express-news.net

Twitter: @pfikac
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In the earliest days of San Antonio, one wouldnt have had to go far to find an animal that eventually became an iconic part of the nations westward expansion.

San Antonio and the surrounding countryside are not exactly top of mind when recalling the enormous buffalo herds that dominated the American prairie for hundreds of years, but there was a time when the shaggy beasts were so prevalent across the nations landscape, they could be found from the Gulf coastal plains to Canada.

Author Jesus F. De La Teja notes in his book Faces of Bexar, Early San Antonio & Texas that Spanish explorers encountered buffalo, less commonly referred to as bison, in this area in 1691.

Throughout this part of Texas, immense bison herds roamed when the Spanish first arrived, De La Teja wrote.

San Antonio has maintained a connection to bison in various ways through the years from prehistoric native Americans hunting them west of here to a small herd that roamed near downtown less than a century ago. The connection remains strong today through several South Texas ranches that raise bison to be enjoyed in restaurants near and far while also preserving a slice of Americana for future generations.

Bison were not always here, said Bruce Shackelford, South Texas Heritage Center curator at the Witte Museum. They came and went. It depended a lot on the weather and it depended a lot on dry and wet periods and cold periods.

More Information Bison or buffalo? Although people often think buffalo roamed the vast prairies of the United States, buffalo (water buffalo or cape buffalo) are primarily found in Africa or South Asia. Bison (identifiable by their horns like a typical cow and their large shoulder hump) roam North America and were hunted to near extinction by early European settlers. Both are bovids, or members of the cattle family. Souce: Mentalfloss.com See More Collapse

The General Land Office in Austin has a map by Stephen F. Austin in its archives from 1848 showing land northwest of Bexar and Fort Alamo marked with the phrase immense herds of buffalo. An area of the map west of Waco Village, which would become Waco when the first log cabin was built there the next year, and east of the Rio Colorado is labeled large droves of wild cattle and horses. Towns such as Goliad, Gonzales, Seguin, Columbus and Victoria are on the map, but Dallas wouldnt come along until 1860.

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Southern Plains and Northern Plains bison herds numbered between 30 and 60 million before 1870. The Texas State Historical Association says that by 1878, the Southern Plains herd had been nearly wiped out in what came to be known as the great slaughter.

Millions of bison were killed for their hides with the rest of their corpses left to rot in many cases. The hides were sold to make various goods that were shipped all over the world, including equipping the English army with accoutrement bags in Africa after an outbreak of rinderpest left resources there scarce.

Other reasons contributed to the onslaught, such as the government trying to reduce food sources in an effort to displace native Americans and force them onto reservations. The strategy was to starve native populations into submission. Bison were nearly extinct by the end of the 19th century, numbering fewer than 500 nationwide.

The hunters were hunting bison for fan belts to drive the Industrial Revolution, Shackelford said.

In the first decade of the 1900s, former San Antonio businessman and philanthropist George W. Brackenridge brought 10 bison from Yellowstone Park to San Antonio where they roamed in the park bearing his name. The bison stayed in the park for nearly a decade before being transferred to a separate section of nearby land where they remained until mid-century, according to Shackelford.

There are numerous bison herds in Texas these days, including those in San Angelo and Caprock Canyons State Parks. Several south Texas ranches also raise bison and allow them to roam free, grazing the way nature intended.

Charles Wilson, president of the Texas Bison Association, said bison have made a tremendous comeback in the past century, thanks to people in Texas and all over the nation taking an interest in preserving them both as a healthy food source and as a part of the nations history.

Wilson said more than 600 ranchers in Texas raise bison. Some have small groups of bison and others have hundreds. Wilson said that although a handful of ranches have more than 600 acres and more than 500 bison, the average Texas bison ranch has 30 bison on 146 acres.

Ive only got 120 acres and when I bought the piece of property, there were a few exotics on the property, Wilson said. There were a few fallow deer, a few elk, a few Aoudads (sheep) and two bison cows.

That was six or seven years ago. I have since added a bull and more cows and Im up to 13 and I just sort of let them grow.

Not everyone views bison with the same reverence as Wilson and his fellow members in the TBA. In 2010, 51 bison were killed by a King County ranch foreman when they strayed from a neighboring property. The incident led to the Bison Estray Law being signed by Gov. Rick Perry in 2013, protecting stray bison from being killed except under certain circumstances.

The Witte is working on an exhibit that will open in 2018 called Gathering in the Waters: 10,000 Years of People. Part of the exhibit will tell the story of the bison and their history in Texas.

Kyle Ringo is a freelance writer in San Antonio.
Some of the landscape at UWA Farm Ridgefield is challenging in terms of soil type, obstacles and paddock shape so working in partnership with Ausplow will help optimise seeding practices, he said.
Growers feel that GRDC is probably not taking as much risk as it should and that the GRDC should be reaching more and looking at more transformation investments as part of our portfolio to deliver a step change for growers, he said.
Otto Warmbier, the 22-year-old University of Virginia student who was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in North Korea for taking a propaganda sign from a hotel, has died in a US hospital. North Korea returned him in a comatose state to the United States last week after he'd served 17 months of his sentence.

North Korean officials said Warmbier fell into a coma as a result of botulism and a sleeping pill, but US doctors express doubt that they were the cause. According to USA Today, "Much remains unknown about what happened to Warmbier in North Korea, but he reportedly has been in a coma for more than a year. Brain scans show severe damage."

Otto's parents, Fred and Cindy Warmbier, issued a statement Monday afternoon, which read, in part:

When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable  almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that.

From NPR:
On the other models you could go out to four metres (13ft) to keep the sprayer stable in undulating areas but with the G6 you get that stability on three metres.
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by Staff reporter

THABO Mbeki, the former President of South Africa, has told South Africans to stay clear of criticising President Robert Mugabe, adding that it is the Zimbabweans who should have a say on whether their leader should remain or leave.According to News24 , Mbeki, who was speaking during a discussion with young people involved in his foundation in Johannesburg on Saturday.Mbeki said leaders who have "overstayed their welcome" must be shown the door by their own people."I would fight with any South African who stands up to say: 'I, as a South African, say Robert Mugabe must go'," said the broker of Zimbabwe's now defunct unity government."I say it is none of your business. It is the business of the people of Zimbabwe"If the people of Zimbabwe think that President Mugabe has overstayed his welcome, let them say...president, please go away."Mbeki insisted "The colonial system was exactly about taking away the possibility for us to determine our own (destiny)"."Now, I sit here as a South African and me, I'm going to say to the Zimbabweans: 'You shut up. I'm going to decide for you who your leader is' ... It is wrong," stated Mbeki.
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by Staff reporter

Bulawayo City has been found guilty of polluting water sources such as Umguza and Khami rivers by failing to contain raw sewage and industrial effluent.The ZBC News observed during a tour of the city that the pollution of the two rivers continues unabated.Prolonged raw effluent is also polluting the underground water sources, a development that has seen the condemnation of water from most boreholes as unfit for human consumption.The high levels of pollution in Umguza and Khami rivers has also affected communities downstream who have to endure the use of unsafe water, thus exposing themselves to water-borne diseases.The Environmental Management Agency provincial manager Mr Decent Ndlovu says they are deeply concerned with the slow pace by the city fathers to address the situation.Asked on what measures they are taking to redress the situation, Bulawayo City Council Senior Public Relations Officer Mrs Nesisa Mpofu said while they are constrained by resources and the challenges caused by this season's heavy rains, they remain committed to addressing the situation.She added that the city needs a huge investment to replace all water and sewage pipes that have outlived their usefulness and continue to burst from time to time.
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by Staff reporter

Two more alleged bogus cops nabbed on charges of impersonation traffic police officers and duping several motorists have appeared before a Harare Magistrate bringing to 7 the number arrested so far on similar charges.Carrington Marasha and Francis Mupundumani both former police officers are facing charges of attempted armed robbery and impersonation.The charges stem from an incident which according to state prosecutor, Sebastian Mutizirwa allegedly occurred on the 13th of June this year.It is alleged Marasha, Mupundumani together with Misheck Mburayi and Munesushe Mazarire who have since appeared in court armed themselves with a metal spike and were in possession of a ZRP deposit fines book Z69J.They proceeded to Kwame Nkrumah and Harare Street.They allegedly masqueraded as police officers in plain clothes and stopped a driver of a Nissan Caravan commuter omnibus who was picking passengers and informed him he was under arrest for picking up passengers at an undesignated point.They ordered the passengers to disembark and told the driver they had impounded the vehicle.The quartet boarded the commuter omnibus and told the driver they were proceeding to Harare Central Police station.The driver requested for the identity particulars of the bogus cops who failed to produce any leading to him alerting rank marshals who teamed up and assaulted the bogus cops who fled in different directions.Marasha and Mupundumani were arrested with the aid of members of the public.When Mazarire was arrested the police found a full set of ZRP uniform, two batons, 12 copies of blank ZRP form 11 and six copies of form 66.They appeared before Mrs Barbara Chimbodza who remanded them in custody and advised them to apply for bail at the High Court.
The perfect dress for the coming seasons events, including this weeks Ascot.

The Victoria dress

The new Victoria dress from Cecily celebrates the female shape in an elegant, sophisticated and tailored style making it the perfect look for every summer occasion.

Nipped in at the waist and finished at mid calf, it looks effortlessly chic and stylish in this must-wear shade of pale pink, a colour trend seen on Kate, Duchess of Cambridge at more than one major event this summer. The dress, and the collection, is created by ex-City working sister duo Louise and Sarah, for whom looking stylish in luxury one pieces while remaining feminine and classic is paramount.

The Victoria is the ideal item for glamorous occasions, and is available in perfect time for all your summer wardrobe demands.

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Dame Shirley Bassey is the recipient of this year's Nordoff Robins O2 Silver Clef Award.

Dame Shirley Bassey

The 80-year-old music legend is thrilled to have been chosen to receive the prestigious accolade, which recognises her for her long and successful music career, at the annual charity event held at London's Grosvenor House Hotel on Friday June 30.

Speaking ahead of nabbing the title Lionel Richie won last year, the 'Big Spender' hitmaker said: "I'm honoured to be the recipient of this year Silver Clef Award. Music is my career. Music is my life. Music is my friend. Music has been there to celebrate the highs & sooth through the lows.

"I believe everybody has a song inside of them; some people can lose their way in life, some struggle to express themselves - but Nordoff Robbins works with these people to find their inner songbird and true happiness."

The Nordoff Robbins O2 Silver Clef Awards, which has been running for 42 years, has raised nearly 10 million to fund the Nordoff Robbins charity who provide music therapy for people of all ages.

Blondie will pick up the American Express Icon Award while Phil Collins, 66, is set to receive the Amazon Outstanding Achievement Award.

Meanwhile, Nile Rodgers will be handed the Raymond Weil International Award and is looking forward to celebrating the work the charity does on the night.

The 64-year-old Chic frontman said: "To be honoured by such a great charity, one which uses music to heal and to help, is a real privilege. Music is such a positive force in this world, and I very much look forward to coming together to recognise that at the O2 Silver Clef Awards."

Best Female Award went to 30-year-old Scottish soprano Emeli Sande.

She said: "I feel so lucky to collect the Jack Daniels Newcomer Award! Music is such a massive part of my life, and I feel proud to be recognised by a charity that use music to change lives for the better."

And the Royal Albert Hall Best Group Act has been won by Mumford & Sons, who said: "We're honoured to be picking up the Best Group Award. We believe in the potency of music and are glad to be able to celebrate the amazing work of Nordoff Robbins at the Silver Clef Awards."

The Jack Daniels Best Newcomer Award went to 'Ciaos Adios' hitmaker Anne-Marie, 26.

She said: "I feel so lucky to collect the Jack Daniels Newcomer Award! Music is such a massive part of my life, and I feel proud to be recognised by a charity that use music to change lives for the better."

Other winners include 56-year-old legendary dance music DJ Pete Tong, the recipient of the Innovation Award, and Alexander Armstrong, 47, will be handed the PPL Classical Award at the star-studded ceremony.
Meghan Markle wants to introduce Prince Harry to her 'Suits' co-stars.

Meghan Markle

The 35-year-old actress feels she has been "neglecting" her colleagues - including Patrick J. Adams, her on-screen fiance - and so wants to bring her royal boyfriend to meet her cast mates.

A source told the Express newspaper: "She was really upset about having to skip Patrick's wedding in December because she felt her presence would be too much of a media distraction on his big day.

"She's also been neglecting other on-set colleagues, so she's hoping to make amends by introducing them to Harry during an unofficial visit where everyone can relax and he can get to know her friends."

Meanwhile, Meghan previously dubbed her 'Suits' cast as "family".

Speaking during a script reading at the Paramount Theatre in Austin, Texas, as part of the ATX Television festival, the brunette beauty - who was also joined by cast mates Gabriel Macht, Gina Torres and Patrick J. Adams - said: "We were in a group email the other day and I was saying we'd all lived in the same corporate housing so on top of working together we were living together which makes a whole different dynamic, I think. We just became this whole family right out the gate."

And Meghan is "so happy" she was cast in the production and selected to portray the character because she has been given the opportunity to progress in her career and become a more inspirational figure for the audience.

Speaking about her role and how Rachel has been able to develop throughout the series, Meghan added: "I am so happy ... she's worked so hard and I love that, as a role model, how she's been crafted to balance it all and now have this place at the firm where she really knows her standing and her office isn't just because she's a good researcher, it's because she's an associate. She's really earned that spot."
Innovative Designs, in an attempt to increase its global business, has entered into a two-year agreement with Epoch Consultants, who has been granted exclusive rights in India. Epoch Consultants will be conducting marketing of Insultex to apparel manufacturers and the Indian military. Insultex is seen as the thinnest, lightest and warmest insulator.Epoch Consultants president, Kanan S Shah commented, "We are looking forward to introducing Insultex to the Indian military and apparel industry in India. Many people do not realise that the greatest loss of life within the Indian Armed Forces is caused by exposure to the cold. It is our goal to put an end to this."

Innovative Designs, in an attempt to increase its global business, has entered into a two-year agreement with Epoch Consultants, who has been granted exclusive rights in India. Epoch Consultants will be conducting marketing of Insultex to apparel manufacturers and the Indian military. Insultex is seen as the thinnest, lightest and warmest insulator.#

Epoch Consultants vice president Nilesh J Mehta stated, "We see a huge opportunity in introducing Insultex to the Indian economy."Innovative Designs CEO Joseph Riccelli stated, "The Company is aware of the countless military applications that exist with this agreement." (SV)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
The Cotton USA Western Hemisphere sourcing fair held in Cancun, Mexico, from June 12 to 14, 2017 to identify business partners for sourcing US cotton products, by the Cotton USA, which promotes US cotton fibre and manufactured cotton products, ended successfully. The Cotton USA event is an industry gathering for the cotton textile supply chain.The event brought together 11 US mills, 19 retailers/brands from the US, Canada, Latin America, and Europe and 46 apparel manufacturing companies from Colombia, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Peru.

The Cotton USA Western Hemisphere sourcing fair held in Cancun, Mexico, from June 12 to 14, 2017 to identify business partners for sourcing US cotton products, by the Cotton USA, which promotes US cotton fibre and manufactured cotton products, ended successfully. The Cotton USA event is an industry gathering for the cotton textile supply chain.#

The sourcing fair included a conference session with a panel of experts who addressed US Cotton Fibre - A Closer Look and gave a trade policy update.Following the seminar, the participating US mills and retailers conducted about 750 private meetings in two days with Central American, Mexican and Andean textile and apparel executives to discuss business opportunities.The US mills that participated in the fair were Antex Knitting Mills, Buhler Quality Yarns, Corp, CAP Yarns, CCW, Cotswold Industries, Contempora Fabrics, Frontier Spinning Mills, Hamrick Mills, Inc., Parkdale, Swisstex Direct, and Zagis US.The retailers and brands that attended were El Corte Ingles, Full Beauty Brands, Gander Outdoor, Hermeco, S.A., J. Crew, Levi, Liverpool, Macys, PVH, Tiendas por Departamento Ripley, S.A., Under Armour, and VF Sourcing Latin America. (GK)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
News / Press Release

by Obert Chaurura Gutu

A democratic, free and fair election entails that all eligible voters, without exception, are not deliberately and/or unnecessarily disenfranchised through a cumbersome and difficult process of registering as voters.As such, ZEC should immediately recall the draft statutory instrument that will make it mandatory for all prospective voters to produce proof of residence. It is a fact that the majority of urban dwellers are lodgers and tenants who will not easily have access to proof of residence such as utility bills etc.For the record, the MDC would like to state that it is one of the several stakeholders that strenuously argued against the planned move to make it mandatory for people to produce written proof of residence before they can be permitted to register as voters. In fact, the party wrote a letter to the ZEC chairperson, Rita Makarau, on April 20, 2017, making our party position on this crucial issue abundantly clear. We advocate for a system whereby people must be allowed to register as voters as long as they can affirm their places of residence during the voter registration exercise.We are acutely aware of the fact that the Zanu PF regime is already sensing a crushing and humiliating defeat in next year's elections and as such, they are trying to influence ZEC to make it extremely difficult for most people, to register to vote. It is trite that dictatorships thrive on voter apathy as well as on voter demotivation and intimidation. The MDC will not allow ZEC to unconstitutionally usurp the right of all eligible Zimbabweans to register as voters.We take this opportunity to, once again, call upon Zimbabweans, particularly the youth, to ensure that they register to vote as soon as ZEC commences the voter registration exercise. We are marching to a resounding and historic victory and we are very confident that a new dawn is about to arise in Zimbabwe. We should not be discouraged from registering to vote simply because the Zanu PF regime is trying every trick in the book to derail the people's march to victory. The people's victory is guaranteed as long as we turn out in our millions to register to vote as well as to cast our vote on polling day.MDC: Equal Opportunities For AllObert Chaurura GutuMDC National Spokesperson
The future of retail is adoption of omni-channel strategy, according to a report. Omnichannel retail gives consumers a single, holistic view of the retail business by using different channels in a customers shopping experience like-mobile, online stores, mobile apps, telephone sales, physical stores and any other method of transacting with a customer.

This trend towards an omni-channel strategy will enable retailers to re-think their business strategy in order to tap the best of both worlds and maximise on footfalls, stated the report by Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), a leading professional services firm that specialises in real estate and investment management.

Retail industry in India is witnessing an increased focus on leveraging technology across functions of merchandising, supply chain, store operations, omni-channel operations, customer engagement and fulfillment, accoding to the report. Both retailers and retail spaces have to contend with a growing urban population, and one that is increasingly knowledgeable and demanding.

Offline and online retailing will co-exist in India; however, offline retail itself has a lot of potential to grow, the report said. Offline retailers who have limited warehouse infrastructure, may remodel their stores to add direct order fulfillment and stocking in the back office. The retail spaces can be more vibrant by providing more leisure activity. Curated mix of smaller stores in designated spaces within malls can add a sense of uniqueness.

For retailers, the key to keeping the consumer entertained is to integrate physical and digital experiences to provide an interactive and all inclusive in-store experience that is combined with excellent service. Innovative retailers are responding, and adapting store formats to provide the interactive element that many consumers now desire. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
Two Swedish firms, Investor AB and ABB Sweden have showed interest in making investment in Bangladesh readymade garment (RMG) sector. The investment will improve the economic conditions of both the countries, said Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina during her visit to Sweden. Bangladesh is the second largest apparel exporter in the world.

Hasina was in Stockholm for Bangladesh-Sweden Investment Forum. During the meet, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Sweden-Bangladesh Business Council, Stockholm, and Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industries to strengthen cooperation in the areas of trade and investment, prime minister's press secretary Ihsanul Karim told media.

"I strongly encourage you, the leaders of Swedish business and industry to partner with us in investment, trade, and innovative businesses for a shared prosperity. Together we can bring a change in the lives of millions in both our countries," said Hasina while addressing a business dialogue of Bangladesh-Sweden Investment Forum.

Setting up of business in Bangladesh is comparatively cheaper, said Hasina while adding that the country has duty free and quota free access to the markets of Australia, India, EU, New Zealand and Japan. Apart from the development of hi-tech parks, 100 Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will also be set up in Bangladesh. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk  India
critic's rating: 4.0/5



Cast: R ajveer Singh, Neha Chauhan, Sandeep Goyat, Vibha Tyagi, Rashmi Singh and Nitin Pandit





Rating: 4 stars





Quick take: One of the most powerful films in recent years





Everyone knows what honour killings are all about. Films like NH10 and Love Sex Aur Dhoka have dealt with the topic of these love killings in the past. But rarely has a film managed to get so intimate and authentic with the subject as G Kutta Se. This little film isn't glamorous nor does it have the allure of a full-blown commercial movie. But what G Kutta Se does is, it depicts the humanity and the truth behind honour killings. This film is brilliantly crafted and it tells a visceral and disturbing story. It's definitely one of the most intense and relevant films of the year.





The story starts off as a man tries to impose himself on a cousin sleeping next to him. Before anything serious can happen, his friends pick him up and the trio hit the road to possibly steal a car and have a night of revelry. The car this gang hijacks has a woman and her husband's driver running away. Keku from the gang, who has earlier tried to come on to his cousin, tries to rape the woman as they drive from what's possibly Harayana to the outskirts of New Delhi. Virendar who's also part of the gang, talks sense and rescues the girl from the predicament. You feel G Kutta Se is steering towards an unlikely Stockholm Syndrome story when it veers back to the village life and fields of rural India as Virendar's family is introduced in elaborate set pieces. His cousin Kiran, his sister Diksha, his father, his uncle and even his mother and aunt have detailed characters. In many ways, the layered and detailed storytelling of G Kutta Se reminds you of Sairat. This powerful film blows you away with it's stark realism.





That director and writer Rahul Dahiya's film presents a grim world full of patriarchy and misogyny is a statement that skims the surface of this film. The true beauty of this well crafted and deeply authentic film is the dichotomy it presents with its characters. G Kutta Se turns characters you'd peg as heroes into weak-willed humans. It has mothers hacking their own daughters and fathers being emotional grenades. Every single character in this film is a real person. Every action and emotion of these characters is plain authentic. Honour killings are just the platform on which Dahiya and his associates dissect and analyze the human psyche and the dual nature of common folk.







The entire cast comprises of fresh faces. The main roles are played by Rajveer Singh, Neha Chauhan, Sandeep Goyat, Vibha Tyagi, Rashmi Singh and Nitin Pandit. These new boys and girls are relatively unknown and their presence allows the characters shine through. To say that G Kutta Se is a well acted film is an understatement. The cast of this movie achieves phenomenal dramatic impact.





Movies like G Kutta Se are rare. Its a perfect blend of real grit and filmmaking finesse. Shot like a true blue art film, edited with the precision of a slick commercial film, there's nothing about this film that does not impress. The only bummer is the fact that there aren't enough shows out there to have this gem of a film reach a wider audience. G Kutta Se is absolute find. Its the kind of film that could have fueled the new age cinema revolution of the 70s and 80s all by itself. This one's pure gold.

Director: Rahul Dahiya
The Lovely Mother-Daughter Duo

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Aaradhya Bachchan were snapped at the Mumbai airport recently.

Paparazzi Love Aishwarya's Little Bundle Of Joy

The shutterbugs love to click Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's cute daughter as they know the little one has her own fan following.

Pretty Aishwarya

As usual, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was looking damn pretty in her casual outfit at the airport.

When Aishwarya Posed With A Fan

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is very kind and humble in real life. She never disappoints her fans and always poses for the selfies with them.

A Fan Posted Aish's Pics

A fan of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan posted these pictures on Twitter and wrote, ''#AishwaryaRaiBachchan & Aaradhya Last night at Mumbai airport .''

But Where Was Abhishek?

A web portal had reported that Abhishek Bachchan was planning to take them on a holiday. "It has been hectic six months for both Abhishek and Aishwarya.''

Their Last Vacation Was In December

''They had gone for a vacation in December last year, to ring in the new year. But they had to cut short their vacation because Aishwarya's father was keeping unwell.''

No Anniversary Celebrations

''The next two-three months, the couple was juggling between the hospital and their work commitments. In fact, in April, Aishwarya and Abhishek completed a decade of marriage but since Aishwarya's father passed away a few days before that, no celebration happened."

The Couple Wanted To Relax

"Then Aishwarya and Aaradhya headed to Cannes and returned by May end. Now before both Aish and Abhishek begin work on their films, they want to take a break, relax and spend some quality time together.''

What Was The Plan

''They were supposed to leave June 13 and were expected to return by the second week of July, a few weeks before Pro Kabaddi's new season kickstarts."
France

Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna spent a quiet holiday in the countryside of France.

Saint Tropez

The couple were holidaying in Saint Tropez and enjoyed the plush greenary.

Away From Paris

Akshay and Twinkle are away from the hustle bustle of Paris this time.

Beautiful Countryside

Apart from the city of love Paris, France is blessed with natural beauty in its countryside.

Princess Diana

Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Kumar also visited the restaurant 'Auberge de La Mole' which was frequented by the late Princess Diana.

Slice Of Heaven

She also recommended her followers to visit Gassin restaurant in Saint Tropez and called it "Slice Of Heaven."

Peace Of Mind

Good food, peace of mind and natural beauty is what Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Kumar got in their holiday in Saint Tropez.

French Holiday

Just a week ago, Twinkle Khanna was holidaying with her friends in Paris.

Natural Beauty

When Akshay Kumar landed in France, the duo headed of to Saint Tropez from Paris.

Countryside Is Great

Twinkle Khanna enjoys the countryside more than city life.

Twinkle Khanna

We're sure Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Kumar had the time of their life in Saint Tropez.
Cassandra Luna

Cassandra Luna is a Mexican-American glamour and lingerie model.

Sea Of Followers

She has a sea of followers on Instagram and her fans go crazy whenever she posts a new picture.

No Smoking & Drinking

Cassandra has a 'no smoking, no drinking' clean lifestyle.

No Drugs

She doesn't take drugs and is strictly against it. Good!

Inspiring Woman!

Several young models are inspired by her lifestyle and want to become like her.

Beach Baby

Cassi also loves the beach and has posed for several pictures there!

Feel Of The Ocean

Well, who doesn't love the sun, sand and the beach folks?

Stunning Beauty

Cassandra Luna has a figure to die for. Doesn't she, folks?

Lingerie Queen

She also wears the best lingerie all the time and every single time too!

Hot Cassi

Her body is something quite different and hot!

All That Glitters

Well, Cassi proves that all that glitters is really gold! Isn't it?

Next Big Thing

Cassandra can be the next top model in the United States of America.

Beauty!

She looks like a beauty contest winner hands down!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Cassi enjoys a photoshoot with one of her friend who is also a model.

Fit As A Fiddle

A body like this didn't come easy and she worked hard to achieve it.

Truly Blessed

Cassi is also blessed with a beautiful and wonderful family who supports her at all cost.

Bikini Queen

Cassandra looks sizzling in a black bikini!

Woman Of Our Dreams

Cassandra Luna is a woman that every man dreams of meeting and taking out on a dinner date.

Hard Work Pays Off

She works out regularly at the gym and has worked really hard to attain this body.

Wonderful Lady

She's truly blessed with the best assets.

Actress & Dancer

Apart from modelling, she's also an amateur actress and a dancer.

Budding Photographer

Cassi also has interest in photography and is learning it as a hobby.

India Anytime?

Will Cassandra Luna ever visit India anytime? We hope she does!

Everybody Loves Her

If she visits India, we're sure she'll be the next big thing here too!
Maya In Mental Asylum!

Maya decide to start afresh. She feels that her condition may get worse and might affect her child. So she decides to get herself admitted to a mental hospital.

Arjun & Maya

At the hospital, seeing the ward boys treat the other patient badly, she panics. Just then Arjun enters the ward and feels bad for Maya! He takes her with him as he doesn't want Maya to be treated badly!

Vandana & Maya

According to the latest spoiler, post Samay's death, Maya will be seen happy at her baby shower! Vandana is also seen happy and does the ritual.

Ayaan Is Back!

Shockingly, Maya's happiness will be short-lived as Arjun's brother Ayaan comeback after serving his term in prison. He hugs his bhabhi, while the discomfort on Maya's face was evident!

Ayaan To Get Maya Arrested During Her Baby Shower?

What shocks Maya is the entry of Ayaan with the police. Ayaan also asks the police to arrest Maya for all the hideous crimes she has committed!

Ayaan's Prank

But, Maya is relaxed after she gets to know that Ayaan was just playing a prank! Is Ayaan warning Maya indirectly that he would get her arrested if she tries to harm any of his family members?

Saanjh Doubts Maya!

Meanwhile, Saanjh is shocked to see Vandana and Maya happy! Maya hugs Saanjh, who is still puzzled about Maya's change.
TOKYO (dpa-AFX) - Japan posted a merchandise trade deficit of 203.367 billion yen in May, the Ministry of Finance said on Monday. That missed forecasts for a surplus of 43.3 billion yen following the 481.1 billion yen surplus in April. Exports were up 14.9 percent on year to 5.851 trillion yen, shy of expectations for a gain of 16.0 percent following the 7.5 percent gain in the previous month. Exports to all of Asia were up 16.8 percent on year to 3.234 trillion yen, while exports to China alone advanced an annual 23.9 percent to 1.117 trillion yen. Exports to the United States climbed 11.6 percent to 1.082 trillion yen, while exports to the European Union spiked 19.8 percent to 692.368 billion yen. Imports climbed an annual 17.8 percent to 6.054 trillion yen versus expectations for 14.5 percent and up from 15.2 percent a month earlier. Imports from all of Asia perked 14.4 percent on year to 2.925 trillion yen, while imports from China alone picked up 9.6 percent to 1.429 trillion yen. Imports from the United States picked up 7.4 percent to 671.300 billion yen, while imports from the European Union advanced 12.5 percent to 732.911 billion yen. The adjusted trade surplus was 133.8 billion yen, beneath expectations for 345.5 billion yen and down from 157.6 billion yen a month earlier. 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.
Brand plans to develop 35 Baskin-Robbins shops across Pakistan over the coming years

LAHORE, Pakistan, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --Baskin-Robbins, the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, today announced that it has signed a master licensing agreement with AHG Flavours (PVT.) Limited to develop the brand in Pakistan. The agreement calls for the development of 35 Baskin-Robbins shops across the country, with an initial focus on the city of Lahore.

"Baskin-Robbins is famous around the world for offering an extensive variety of 31 ice cream flavors to its guests, and we're looking forward to treating our customers across Pakistan with the same flavorful experience," said Irfan Mustafa, Chairman of AHG Flavours (PVT.) Limited. "And we look forward to opening our first Baskin-Robbins shop in the months ahead."

Harris Mustafa, CEO of AHG Flavours (PVT.) Limited, an industry veteran and a consummate operator, welcomed Baskin-Robbins in Pakistan in his classic bravado, "Abhi toh party shuru hoi hai," meaning the party has just begun.

Baskin-Robbins restaurants in Pakistan will feature the brand's extensive selection of classic ice cream flavors, including Pralines 'n Cream, Jamoca Almond Fudge, Mint Chocolate Chip and Very Berry Strawberry, alongside regional favorites such as Mango Tango and Tiramisu. The brand will also offer its delicious range of custom ice cream cakes, frozen beverages, ice cream sundaes and take home ice cream treats.

"We are pleased to be collaborating with Irfan, Harris and their team to begin developing the Baskin-Robbins brand in Pakistan by bringing our wide range of delicious ice cream flavors, cakes and other treats to Pakistani customers," said John Varughese, Vice President, Dunkin' Brands International.

Baskin-Robbins currently has more than 7,800 restaurants in more than 50 countries around the world.

About Baskin-Robbins

Baskin-Robbins is the world's largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, providing guests with a wide array of ice cream flavors and delicious treats at more than 7,800 retail shops in more than 50 countries around the world. The brand was founded by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion for ice cream led to the creation of many iconic ice cream flavors including Pralines 'n Cream, Jamoca Almond Fudge and Very Berry Strawberry. Today, Baskin-Robbins has more than 1,300 ice creams in its flavor library, and also offers custom ice cream cakes, frozen beverages and ice cream sundaes. Its franchised ice cream shops serve as places where people can connect and create special memories while they explore a wide array of flavors, including a new Flavor of the Month every month.




Second in-region aftermarket support center will improve customer experience for all commercial aerospace customers in Asia Pacific and China

Parker Aerospace, a business segment of Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH), the global leader in motion and control technologies, today announced that it will open its second global Customer Response Center (CRC) in Singapore in late 2017. Located inside Parker's existing customer support operation at 45 Changi North Crescent, Singapore, the new CRC location will provide a full range of business and technical services to its maintenance, repair, and overhaul customers as well as third-party repair operations 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The value of Parker Aerospace's around-the-clock service for customers will be further strengthened by a single point of contact locally to speed the handling of technical, business, and service calls requiring immediate attention.

The new Singapore CRC will enable wide-ranging regional service for customers in Asia Pacific and China. This center will provide around-the-clock material, logistic, and technical support for aircraft on the ground (AOG); spare part quotations; order execution and delivery; and management of Parker's worldwide parts pooling network.

Parker's first global CRC opened in Irvine, California in October 2015. Today CRC customers can contact the center by phone at any time, or through email support and online live-chat accessible from Parker.com/CRC. With the expansion, customers of Parker Aerospace will have more issues resolved real-time by local staff who are most familiar with customer and regional support needs.

The Singapore CRC is part of the Parker360 initiative to keep aircraft continuously healthy, around the clock and around the globe. In addition to 24/7/365 accessibility, Parker's global pooling inventory allows for efficient delivery of needed parts for customers. With pooling centers located in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, customers no matter where they are have access to the parts they need.

"Part availability is just one of the ways we'll be working to create a seamless customer service experience at the new Singapore CRC," said David Sawdey, the director of global services for Parker's Customer Support Operations (CSO) division. "The center in Singapore is the next phase of our strategy to support our aftermarket customers within their regions. We want our customers to have their inquiries addressed and resolved quickly during their workday, no matter where they are located in the world."

Parker Aerospace is in hall 5, stand C210, at the Paris Air Show, June 19-25, 2017.

About Parker Aerospace. Parker Aerospace is a global leader in the research, design, integration, manufacture, certification, and lifetime service of flight control, hydraulic, fuel and inerting, fluid conveyance, thermal management, lubrication, and pneumatic systems and components for aerospace and other high-technology markets. The company supports the world's aircraft manufacturers, providing a century of experience and innovation for commercial and military aircraft.

About Parker Hannifin. Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For 100 years the company has engineered the success of its customers in a wide range of diversified industrial and aerospace markets. Learn more at www.parker.com or @parkerhannifin.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170618005079/en/

Contacts:

Parker Aerospace

Brian King, +1 714-458-7416

brian.king@parker.com
- T. S. Eliot

Thoughts After Lambeth

"The World is trying the experiment of attempting to form a civilized but non-Christian mentality. The experiment will fail; but we must be very patient in awaiting its collapse; meanwhile redeeming the time: so that the Faith may be preserved alive through the dark ages before us; to renew and rebuild civilization, and save the World from suicide."
Parker's Customer Support Operations strives to keep customers' aircraft fleets continuously healthy, around the clock and around the globe

Parker Aerospace, a business segment of Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH), the global leader in motion and control technologies, today launched a new initiative named Parker360 to provide world-class aerospace aftermarket services. Known as a systems provider with 100 years of experience on nearly every major aircraft that has flown, Parker Aerospace is uniquely qualified to provide aftermarket aircraft support. Reinforcing its status in the industry, Parker360 promises to help aircraft operators and owners to continuously maintain the health of their fleets globally.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170618005071/en/

(Graphic: Business Wire)

"No other company offers the complete range of aerospace technologies that Parker does, touching every aircraft market, with a broad historical pedigree of aircraft platforms and deep understanding of system integration," said Austin Major, vice president of customer support at Parker Aerospace. "Parker360 is our promise to provide comprehensive support around the clock and around the globe. Our global Customer Response Center is waiting to help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and our support network is ready to help aircraft anywhere in the world."

As the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for systems and components supporting most aircraft platforms, Parker Aerospace provides industry-leading lifetime support for its products to aircraft manufacturers, owners, and operators. Within Parker Aerospace, Customer Support Operations serves as the single point of contact for Parker Aerospace OEM divisions and their product lines. This includes flight control, hydraulic, fuel and inerting, fluid conveyance, thermal management, lubrication, and pneumatic systems and components for aerospace and other high-technology markets.

Parker360 focuses the power of Parker Aerospace's valuable experience as a systems supplier with high-quality parts from the OEM divisions, all backed by industry-leading service. Not only does Parker maintain a 24/7/365 support center, the employees within Parker Aerospace are truly a differentiator in the service offering. Over its 100-year history, Parker has prided itself in hiring some of the smartest, most capable, and dedicated people in the aerospace industry who individually have impressive pedigrees working on specific aircraft platforms.

Parker Aerospace's commitment to people shows in the company's employee retention rate; many employees stay for decades. Parker Aerospace reports an average employee tenure of 16.6 years. "If you have a question about a component from 1990, not only do we have all the performance data to provide an answer, we can usually also ask the engineer who originally designed it, because he or she still works here," said Vic Jorcyk, Customer Support Operations business development director.

"Even as early as the Spirit of St. Louis first crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Parker's parts were driving the success of customers, making the dream of aerospace a reality," said Jorcyk. "Just as Charles Lindbergh was successful with Parker's parts in 1927, today we're engineering the success of aerospace companies who are building the aircraft of tomorrow, and we'll support those aircraft indefinitely."

As Parker celebrates its 100th anniversary, the launch of Parker360 reinforces the values with which the company was created. As stated by Arthur Parker, the founder of Parker Hannifin, "Our success is founded on fair dealing, hard work, coordination of effort, and quality products."

Parker Aerospace is in hall 5, stand C210, at the Paris Air Show, June 19-25, 2017.

About Parker Aerospace. Parker Aerospace is a global leader in the research, design, integration, manufacture, certification, and lifetime service of flight control, hydraulic, fuel and inerting, fluid conveyance, thermal management, lubrication, and pneumatic systems and components for aerospace and other high-technology markets. The company supports the world's aircraft manufacturers, providing a century of experience and innovation for commercial and military aircraft.

About Parker Hannifin. Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For 100 years the company has engineered the success of its customers in a wide range of diversified industrial and aerospace markets. Learn more at www.parker.com or @parkerhannifin.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170618005071/en/

Contacts:

Parker Aerospace

Brian King, +1 714-458-7416

brian.king@parker.com


CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The euro climbed against its major counterparts in the pre-European session on Monday, after French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party won an overwhelming majority in the second round of French parliamentary elections, giving the president a mandate to push through reforms to reinvigorate the economy.



Macron's party, La Republique en Marche (the Republic on the Move) and its allies had won 350 seats in the 577-member National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament.



This was far higher than the 289 seats required to have an absolute majority to control Parliament.



The results strengthen Macron's power in implementing his programme of business-friendly reforms.



Investors also await the formal start of Brexit talks between the UK and the European Union later in the day.



Ahead of the departure to Brussels for talks, Britain's Brexit minister David Davis said the country wants to strike 'a deal like no other in history'.



The currency has been trading in a positive territory in the Asian session.



The euro firmed to 124.50 against the yen, its strongest since June 5. The next possible resistance for the euro-franc pair is seen around the 126.00 area.



Data from the Ministry of Finance showed that Japan logged a merchandise trade deficit of 203.367 billion yen in May.



That missed forecasts for a surplus of 43.3 billion yen following the 481.7 billion yen surplus in April.



The single currency hit 4-day highs of 1.1208 against the greenback and 1.4729 against the aussie, from early lows of 1.1189 and 1.4672, respectively. Continuation of the euro's uptrend may lead it to resistance levels of around 1.14 against the greenback and 1.49 against the aussie.



Extending early gains, the euro advanced to a 5-day high of 1.0908 against Swiss franc. On the upside, 1.11 is possibly seen as the next resistance level for the euro-franc pair.



Reversing from an early nearly 2-month low of 1.5341 against the kiwi, the euro edged up to 1.5430. The euro is poised to challenge resistance around the 1.56 level.



The euro that closed Friday's trading at 1.4791 against the loonie rose to 1.4829. If the euro-loonie pair extends gain, it may target 1.49 as the next resistance level.



Looking ahead, Eurozone construction output for April is set for release in the European session.



At 8:00 am ET, New York Fed President William Dudley speaks at the North Country Chamber of Commerce, in Plattsburgh.



Deutsche Bundesbank President Jens Weidmann delivers speech at the Colloquium in memoriam Prof Dr Hans Tietmeyer in Frankfurt at 11:00 am ET.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
FAIRFIELD (dpa-AFX) - Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec or CDPQ, an institutional asset manager, announced Monday that it has signed a commitment letter with GE's aircraft leasing company GE Capital Aviation Services or GECAS. The deal would create a $2 billion global aircraft financing platform. The transaction is subject to conditions including any required regulatory approvals. The new platform will be named Einn Volant Aircraft Leasing or EVAL. It will be involved in the acquisition of modern fuel efficient aircraft from a diverse set of global airlines and in leasing them back to such airlines under long-term leases. GECAS will source the transactions and, under a sistership condition, will invest in aircraft ownership opportunities alongside the platform to further align its interests with those of EVAL. GECAS will also act as servicer for the platform. EVAL will provide GECAS with the flexibility to finance future growth and opportunities, while serving as an entry point for CDPQ into the aircraft leasing and financing industry. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Bank of America Merrill Lynch advised GECAS on the transaction. 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. - June 19, 2017) - GoviEx Uranium Inc. (TSXV: GXU) (OTCQB: GVXXF) ("GoviEx") announced today that the Zambian Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has reviewed and provided its approval to complete the transaction that will see GoviEx acquire the uranium mineral interests of African Energy Resources Ltd. (ASX: AFR) ("African Energy") in Zambia (the "Transaction"). Details of the Transaction are contained in GoviEx's March 6, 2017 news release.

GoviEx expects the Transaction to close in July 2017. Closing is subject to the receipt of the usual required consents and approvals, including, but not limited to, final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, as well as the satisfaction of other conditions customary for a transaction of this nature.

Govind Friedland, Executive Chairman of GoviEx, commented: "The combination of African Energy's Chirundu and Kiraba Valley tenements with GoviEx's Mutanga Project will allow us to unitize these neighbouring properties, significantly enlarging and improving the potential economies of scale. This acquisition complements our strategy to be the consolidator of compelling African-uranium projects while the uranium price remains low."

About the transaction

The Chirundu and Kariba Valley properties to be acquired as part of the Transaction include a mining licence and two prospecting licences. The Chirundu mining licence covers two uranium deposits, Gwabe and Njame, containing JORC compliant mineral resources of 7.4Mlb U 3 O 8 in the Measured and Indicated categories, plus 3.8Mlb U 3 O 8 in the Inferred category (see tables below for detailed breakdown).

GoviEx's acquisition of the Chirundu and Kariba Valley properties, combined with the Mutanga property previously acquired from Denison Mines Ltd., will represent a regional consolidation and will result in contiguous tenements of approximately 140km in strike length, including three mine licences, containing combined mineral resources of 15.2Mlb U 3 O 8 in the Measured and Indicated categories and 45.2Mlb U 3 O 8 the Inferred category. Sections between the known deposits remain under-explored with a number of high-priority drill targets.

Njame and Gwabe Mineral Resources

Deposit Tonnes (Mt) U 3 O 8 (ppm ) U 3 O 8 (Mlbs) Njame

Mineral

Resource



Gwabe

Mineral

Resource Measured 2.7 350 2.1 Indicated 3.7 252 2.1 Inferred 6.6 240 3.5 Measured 1.3 237 0.7 Indicated 3.6 313 2.5 Inferred 0.8 178 0.3

Notes: Njame Mineral Resource is as of January 2010; Gwabe Mineral Resource is as of March 2009. The updated resource estimates are completed using the Ordinary Kriging method, and classified with reference to the criteria set out in the Australasian Code For Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code, December 2004).

Mutanga Uranium Project

Deposit U 3 O 8

Lower Cut-off Measured Indicated Inferred Tonnes (Mt) U 3 O 8 (ppm) U 3 O 8 (Mlbs) Tonnes (Mt) U 3 O 8 (ppm) U 3 O 8 (Mlbs) Tonnes (Mt) U 3 O 8 (ppm) U 3 O 8 (Mlbs) Mutanga 100 1.88 481 2.0 8.4 314 5.8 7.20 206 3.3 Mutanga Exts 200 0.50 340 0.4 Mutanga East 200 0.20 320 0.1 Mutanga West 200 0.50 340 0.4 Dibwe 100 17.00 234 9 Dibwe East 100 39.80 322 28.2 Total 1.88 481 2.0 8.4 314 5.8 65.20 287 41.4

In order to comply with the requirement that a Mineral Resource must have reasonable prospects for economic extraction, a third party (Roscoe Postle and Associates, "RPA") prepared a preliminary conceptual Whittle pit optimization for reporting of Mineral Resources within the conceptual pit shell, based on a uranium price of $70/lb U 3 O 8 .

Mutanga's Mineral Resources as at September 12, 2013, are classified in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum's "CIM Definition Standards - For Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves" in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" (the Instrument). Mineral Resource estimates reflect the company's reasonable expectation that all necessary permits and approvals will be obtained and maintained.

The Mineral Resource Statement was prepared Mr. Malcom Titley as the Qualified Person (QP) as defined by the CIM Definition Standards and Section 5.1 of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Form 43-101F1 and Companion Policy 43-101).

Source: Technical Report filed "NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimates for the Mutanga Uranium Project, Denison Mines Corp Zambia Africa", dated September 12, 2013. Prepared by CSA Global (UK) Ltd for Denison Mines Corp.

Mineral Resources that are not mineral reserves do not have to demonstrate economic viability. Mineral Resources are subject to infill drilling, permitting, mine planning, mining dilution and recovery losses, among other things, to be converted into Mineral Reserves. Due to the uncertainty associated with Inferred Mineral Resources, it cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to Indicated or Measured Mineral Resources, including as a result of continued exploration.

Qualified persons

The scientific and technical information disclosed in this release regarding the Mutanga Project has been reviewed, verified and approved by Dr. Rob Bowell, a chartered chemist of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a chartered geologist of the Geological Society of London and Fellow of the Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Materials, who is an independent Qualified Person under the terms of National Instrument 43-101 for uranium deposits.

The scientific and technical information disclosed in this release in relation to the Chirundu and Kariba Valley properties has been reviewed Dr. Frazer Tabeart (an employee and the Managing Director of African Energy), who is a member of The Australian Institute of Geoscientists. Dr Tabeart has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person under the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Dr. Tabeart consents to the inclusion of the data in the form and context in which it appears.

About GoviEx Uranium

GoviEx is a mineral resource company focused on the exploration and development of uranium properties in Africa. GoviEx's principal objective is to become a significant uranium producer through the continued exploration and development of its flagship Mine Permitted Madaouela Project in Niger, its Mutanga Project in Zambia, and its other uranium properties in Africa.

Contact information

Govind Friedland, Executive Chairman

Daniel Major, Chief Executive Officer

+1 604-681-5529

info@goviex.com

Website: www.goviex.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.

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All information and statements other than statements of current or historical facts contained in this news release are forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed here and elsewhere in GoviEx's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. When used in this news release, words such as "will", "could", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "potential", "should," and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. Information provided in this document is necessarily summarized and may not contain all available material information.

Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding completion of the Transaction and other statements that are not facts. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management based on the business and markets in which GoviEx operates, are inherently subject to significant operational, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.

Assumptions upon which forward-looking statements relating to the Transaction have been made include that GoviEx will be able to satisfy the conditions to the completion of the Transaction; that all required third party, regulatory, stock exchange, and government approvals will be obtained; and that the Transaction will be successfully concluded. In addition, the factors described or referred to in the section entitled "Financial Risks and Management Objectives" in the MD&A for the year-ended December 31, 2016, of GoviEx, which is available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com, should be reviewed in conjunction with the information found in this news release.

Although GoviEx has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, there can be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate or that management's expectations or estimates of future developments, circumstances or results will materialize. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the Transaction could be modified, restricted or not completed, and the results or events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and GoviEx disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise such information, except as required by applicable law, and GoviEx does not assume any liability for disclosure relating to the other company herein.

Cautionary note to United States investors concerning estimates of measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources: This news release may use the terms "measured", "indicated" and "inferred" mineral resources. United States investors are advised that while such terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. "Inferred mineral resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. United States investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of measured or indicated mineral resources will ever be converted into mineral reserves. United States investors are also cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.
PARIS-LE BOURGET, FRANCE -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today with Ilyushin Joint Stock Company of Russia to explore the restart of the IL-114-100 regional turboprop aircraft program with PW127H engines. P&WC is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

Under the MOU, signed during the 2017 Paris Airshow being held at Le Bourget in France, P&WC will support the initial program restart by providing two PW127H engines for IL-114-100 regional turboprop aircraft. Both companies will also cooperate in reaching a new, long-term agreement regarding future regional turboprop programs for Russian and international regions.

"This agreement marks a milestone in Pratt & Whitney Canada's involvement in the Russian aerospace industry," said Frederic Lefebvre, Vice-President, Marketing, P&WC. "We look forward to working closely with Ilyushin to make the restart of this highly efficient passenger aircraft a success."

P&WC and Ilyushin, a member of Russia's United Aircraft Corporation, originally worked together on the IL-114-100 regional aircraft at the end of the 1990s and early 2000s. The first flight of the IL-114-100, powered by two PW127 turboprop engines, took place in January 1999 and the aircraft obtained a type certificate from the Aviation Register of the Interstate Aviation Committee at the end of that year.

Ten IL-114-100 aircraft were manufactured in Uzbekistan on behalf of Ilyushin and delivered to launch customer Uzbekistan Airways starting in 2002. The aircraft participated in many international air shows and attracted the attention of potential customers worldwide at the time, but the program was later suspended.

"The IL-114-100 aircraft already has a head start with a certified platform and the P&WC PW127H engine which has accumulated more than 118,000 flying hours," notes Nikolay Talikov, Ilyushin General Designer. "With a range of 4,500 km at 460 km/hr, it is well positioned for takeoff among customers in both Russian and international regional requirements."

P&WC will be at the Paris Air Show, Pavilion C2. Interested operators are invited to drop by to speak with a marketing or customer service representative.

100,000 reasons to go beyond

P&WC reached a significant milestone in April 2017, when it produced its 100,000th engine, a testament to the company's longevity and leadership in the global aerospace market. P&WC will celebrate this achievement throughout the year, recognizing all families of products as well as dedicated employees and loyal customers who, together, have marked the many accomplishments of its journey.

About Pratt & Whitney Canada

Founded in 1928, and a global leader in aerospace, P&WC is shaping the future of aviation with dependable, high-technology engines. Based in Longueuil, Quebec (Canada), P&WC is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. United Technologies Corp., based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries.

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in levels of demand in the aerospace industry, in levels of air travel, and in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production, support, performance, and realization of anticipated benefits of advanced technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corp.'s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Note to Editors

For more information, visit our media page at www.pwc.ca/PAS2017-media.

Follow us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pwcanada) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/PrattWhitneyCanada) for our latest news and updates.

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097478.jpg

Contacts:

Pratt & Whitney Canada

Karine Baccichet

514-240-6143

karine.baccichet@pwc.ca

www.pwc.ca




MONTREAL, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Highlights of the 2,925 m spring drill campaign on Zone 25 extension:

-- 1.70 g/t Au over 30m, including 4.26 g/t Au over 4.5m -- 1.96 g/t Au over 28.7m, including 4.11 g/t Au over 7.9m -- 3.82 g/t Au over 3.0m -- Hole PT-17-105 halted in mineralization with 0.73 g/t Au over 6m

Matamec Explorations Inc. ("Matamec" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: MAT)(OTCQB: MHREF) and Canada Strategic Metals ("CSM") (TSX VENTURE: CJC)(FRANKFURT: YXEN)(OTCBB: CJCFF) are pleased to announce the complete results from the 2017 spring drilling campaign on the Sakami property, of which the two companies each own 50%. A total of 2,925 m of drilling was completed in 7 drill holes (PT-17-100 to PT-17-106) along the shore of Sakami Lake to extend the known mineralized body to the west and at depth. This drilling successfully extended the strike length of the zone to 700m, and appears to support the theory of higher grade subdomains with rakes trending west-south-west (see figure 1). The broken core in drill hole PT-17-104A and the disjointed nature of PT-17-105 highlight the increasing geological complexity to the west. PT-17-105 was halted in mineralization, having reached drill rig depth capacity at a vertical depth of 450m. Further investigation will be required to understand its relation with Zone 25 and define its full width.

The highlights of this lot of results are from PT-17-102 with 1.7g/t over 30m including 4.26g/t over 4.5m and PT-17-106 with 1.17g/t over 10.5m. Drill hole PT-17-104 was recollared (PT-17-104A) and did not reach the target depth due to poor rock quality; possibly related to a fault zone (white dot on figure 1). However it did intersect 3.82g/t over 3m at a shallower level and in a similar geological context as Zone 25. Drill holes PT-17-103 and PT-17-105 did not intersect any significant Au mineralization at the expected intervals in the drilling, which highlights the potential geological complexity at the western extent (grey dots on figure 1). Further interpretation and geochemistry on the nature of a new diorite intrusion in the sequence should give a better understanding of the geological model as it will confirm the rock composition as a diorite or a highly altered paragneiss. This potential diorite could add to a growing list of similarities with the Goldcorp's Eleonore Deposit. Mineralized intervals for PT-17-100 and PT-17-101 have previously been announced. The best intersections for the entire 2017 drill campaign are displayed in the table below.

------------------------------------------------------------ Hole Name From To Length(i) Au ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Previously Reported PT-17-100(i) 295,50 307,50 12,00 1,02 ------------------------------------------------------------ Including 304,50 307,50 3,00 2,07 ------------------------------------------------------------ PT-17-101 311,60 340,30 28,70 1,96 ------------------------------------------------------------ Including 313,10 321,00 7,90 4,11 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- New Results PT-17-102 328.5 358.5 30 1.7 ------------------------------------------------------------ Including 354 358.5 4.5 4.26 ------------------------------------------------------------ PT-17-102 367.5 376.5 9 1.32 ------------------------------------------------------------ PT-17-104A 240 243 3 3.82 ------------------------------------------------------------ PT-17-105 586.5 592.5 6 0.73 ------------------------------------------------------------ PT-17-106 196.5 207 10.5 1.17 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

(i)Core length; the true thickness is between 70 to 95% of the core length.

Figure 1: Oblique view perpendicular to Zone 25 showing spring 2017 drill campaign results. Diameter of spheres are equal to the length of intervals and the colour is related to grade. Ellipses illustrate the apparent "higher grade rakes" that show a notable gap in results in between. Only 2017 drilling is annotated, see text for commentary.

http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097505E_1.jpg

CSM recently exercised an option to acquire another 20% of the Sakami property from Matamec in exchange for 1 million shares in the company and a commitment to spend 2M$ per year on exploration over 5 years and complete an independent bankable feasibility study. Please see the press release from February 14th, 2017 for more details of the option agreement and the ownership structure of the property. During the period covered by the option agreement, CSM will remain the operator of the exploration work, supervised by a management committee comprising two representatives of CSM and two representatives of Matamec.

Guy Desharnais, P.Geo., Ph.D. (OGQ No.1141), is a Qualified Person as per NI 43-101; he is employed by SGS Canada Inc., is independent of Matamec, and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release.

"These results appear to support our belief that there is significant gold potential at Sakami," said Andre Gauthier, President and CEO of Matamec. "The extension of Zone 25 to the west is encouraging, and we look forward to further investigation of this area of mineralization."

About Matamec

Located in Montreal (Quebec), Matamec Explorations Inc. is a junior mining exploration company in which activities are based on two main axes of development: gold, and key elements for technologies related to energy with properties containing, among others, lithium (Tansim-owned at 100%), Cobalt (Fabre-100% owned), nickel (Vulcain-100% owned) and rare earths (Kipawa-72% owned by Matamec).

Matamec's main focus is the development of the Kipawa Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREE) deposit, a joint venture owned at 72% by Matamec and 28% by Ressources Quebec (acting as agent of the Government of Quebec); Toyota Tsusho Corp. (Nagoya, Japan) holds a 10% royalty on net profit in the deposit.

In addition to the activities in energy sector, Matamec is exploring for gold, with two properties (Matheson JV (50%) and Pelangio (100%)) located in the area of the Hoyle Pond Mine in Timmins, ON, as well as three in the Quebec Plan Nord region in similar geological settings as established gold-producing mines. These include two in proximity to the Eleonore Mine (in James Bay, QC): Sakami (50%) and Opinaca Gold West (100%).

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.

Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MatamecInc

Contacts:

Andre Gauthier, President

(514) 844-5252

info@matamec.com



CHF Capital Markets

Cathy Hume, CEO

+1 416-868-1079 x231

cathy@chfir.com




VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Riverside Resources Inc. ("Riverside" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: RRI)(OTC PINK: RVSDF)(FRANKFURT: R99), has completed an initial nine-hole diamond core drilling program at the 4 km(2) Pitaya Target within the 36 km2 Glor Gold Project (the "Project"), which is being explored with funding by partner, Centerra Gold Inc. ("Centerra"). The Project hosts five key target areas and is located approximately 8 km west of Alamos Gold's El Chanate Mine in Sonora, Mexico. The recently completed drill program focused on the Pitaya Target located in the north-eastern sector of the Project, which had been defined by partner-funded soil geochemistry and induced polarization geophysical surveys and then further investigated with mechanical trenching and chip-channel sampling (see Company press releases issued on February 15 and April 17, 2017).

Assay results have now been received for all nine drill-holes, which together total 1,942 metres in length. The longest hole was 285 metres. Drill-hole GL17-002D yielded the best intersection of gold mineralization of the campaign: 11.0 metres averaging 0.591 grams gold per tonne (g/t Au) starting at 122 metres down the inclined drill-hole. The highest gold value included in this assay interval is 1.415 g/t Au over 1.0 metre of core. The other eight drill-holes intersected sporadic thin zones of gold mineralization that generally graded less than 0.4 g/t Au across 1.0 metre, with the best of these intercepts being a 2.0 metre interval in GL17-004D that averaged 0.466 g/t Au.

Riverside's President and CEO, John-Mark Staude, stated: "Given the trench sampling intervals gave disseminated gold values in the range of 0.5-1 g/t Au at the Pitaya Target, we are surprised that this initial drill campaign didn't manage to replicate these results. We've been mapping and sampling the larger Glor tenement finding numerous areas with gold and remain positive on the Project's potential. So far we've developed five target areas and have only trenched and drilled one. The four additional target areas will be field sampled and worked on in the coming months to determine if another drill program will be pursued."

Figure 1 below displays the location of the Pitaya Target in relation to the other four target areas that remain undrilled at the Glor Project. Figure 2 is an enlargement of the Pitaya Target area showing the locations of drill-hole collars and surface traces with respect to the trenches that were excavated and sampled just prior to the commencement of drilling.

To view Figure 1: Map of the 5 Target Areas at the Glor Project, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097525_Figure1.pdf

Additional Drill Program Details:

The gold assay results for the 9-hole drilling campaign are in general weaker than the assay results that were obtained from the chip-channel samples collected from the trenches in the immediate area of the Pitaya drill-holes. A possible explanation for the discrepancy between the drilling and trench sampling results is that the extensive mineralization sampled on surface transect in trenches Tr-01 and Tr-02 occurs in a zone of altered andesite that is exposed along an easterly inclined dip-slope in the local topography. (Drill-hole G17-002D appears to have perpendicularly intersected the subsurface down-dip continuation of this zone of gold mineralization (see Figure 2) indicating a true thickness of approximately 11 meters.

To view Figure 2: Compilation map of the north-eastern sector of the Glor Project showing Au-in-soil anomaly, drill holes and trenches completed at the Pitaya Target, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097525_Figure2.pdf

There is a spatial relationship between gold and arsenic (As) at the Pitaya Target, where core samples having gold concentrations greater than 0.3 g/t Au are seen to have As contents of 5,000 ppm and greater. The drill-hole sample containing 1.415 g/t Au showed an As content of greater than 10,000 ppm As. This feature is similar to other orogenic gold systems in north-western, Sonora and indicates the district is the type of region that could be fertile for a new gold discovery.

Although the drilling of the Pitaya target area did not produce an economically significant discovery, much has been improved in the understanding of controls on gold mineralization, which are now being applied to the overall Glor Project. Project geologists are in the field investigating other geochemical survey anomalies on the Project with the objective of refining existing target areas and defining new high-potential drill targets. Particular attention will be given to the rock and soil geochemistry, structural geology, ground magnetic data and utilizing induced polarization as a tool to refine the targets. Fieldwork will continue to be funded by Centerra through the next quarter and, if sufficiently prospective gold targets are generated, a second round of drilling will possibly be completed before the end of the year.

Qualified Person and QA/QC:

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the Glor Project was reviewed and prepared under the supervision of Locke Goldsmith, P. Eng., P. Geo., a non-independent qualified person to Riverside Resources who is responsible for ensuring that the geologic information provided in this news release is accurate and acts as a "qualified person" under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

All drill cores were photographed, geologically logged and then sawed in half to provide samples for gold assaying and multi-element ICP mass spectrometry analysis, which was done by Bureau Veritas' laboratories in Hermosillo, Mexico and Vancouver, Canada, respectively. A total of 1,246 core samples were analysed, with individual samples having core lengths of 1.0 m or 3.0 m, depending on the presence or absence of visible hydrothermal alteration. For quality assurance and control purposes 48 non-mineralized 'blank' samples and 83 standard samples were included with the batches of core samples that were analysed.

About Riverside Resources Inc.:

Riverside is a well-funded prospect generator exploration company with over $5,000,000 in the bank and a tight share structure with fewer than 45M shares issued. Riverside leverages its 77,000 location Mexico mineral database, highly experienced and dedicated technical team and partnership network to acquire and develop high-potential projects. The Company increases the chances of discovery by advancing multiple assets simultaneously through partnerships, allowing Riverside to mitigate risk and conserve capital. Riverside has a diverse portfolio of gold, silver and copper properties throughout North America. Riverside has additional properties available for option with more information available on the Company's website at www.rivres.com.

ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC.

Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO

Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology (e.g., "expect"," estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "plans"). Such information involves known and unknown risks -- including the availability of funds, the results of financing and exploration activities, the interpretation of exploration results and other geological data, or unanticipated costs and expenses and other risks identified by Riverside in its public securities filings that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date 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.

Contacts:

Riverside Resources Inc.

John-Mark Staude

President & CEO

(778) 327-6671

(778) 327-6675 (FAX)

info@rivres.com

www.rivres.com



Riverside Resources Inc.

Raffi Elmajian

Corporate Communication

(778) 327-6671 / TF: (877) RIV-RES1

relmajian@rivres.com

www.rivres.com




OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- The President of the Treasury Board, the Honourable Scott Brison, accompanied by the Minister of Democratic Institutions, the Honourable Karina Gould, and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, will make an important announcement about Access to Information. The Ministers will be available for questions from media immediately following the announcement.

A technical briefing will be held for media prior to the announcement.

DATE June 19, 2017 Technical briefing Time 3:45 p.m. Location Charles-Lynch Room Centre Block 111 Wellington Street Ottawa, ON Announcement Time 4:30 p.m. Location House of Commons Foyer Centre Block 111 Wellington Street Ottawa, ON

Follow us on Twitter: @TBS_Canada.

Contacts:

Jean-Luc Ferland

Press Secretary

Office of the President of the Treasury Board

613-369-3163



Media Relations

Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

613-957-9400

media@tbs-sct.gc.ca




VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Radius Gold Inc. (TSX VENTURE: RDU) is pleased to announce the Company has increased its land position at the Bald Peak property, Nevada. The Bald Peak gold property was acquired in March 2017 from Ely Gold & Minerals Inc. (TSX VENTURE: ELY) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Nevada Select Royalty Inc., adding to Radius's portfolio of epithermal gold prospects in the Aurora gold camp, Nevada.

Radius has staked an additional 59 unpatented mining claims at the Property expanding the strike length of the target area and filling in any gaps along the prospective geology. These claims are contiguous with the claims acquired from Ely Gold (see Radius news release March 6, 2017). The Bald Peak Property now consists of 87 unpatented mining claims in Mineral County, Nevada, 10 unpatented mining claims in Mono County, California and one mineral prospecting license in Mono County, California. The Property overlies a 6 km long, NE-trending, gold-bearing epithermal system that, according to research completed by Radius, has seen minimal exploration work previously.

Bald Peak Mountain is a rhyolite dome complex located 7 km WNW of the historic Aurora Gold mine that was recently acquired by Klondex Mines Inc. The high level epithermal gold bearing veins/stockworks and sinters known to date on the Property occur in a rhyolitic sedimentary unit which is intermittently exposed along a NE-trending depression, potentially a graben structure.

The limited exploration work conducted on the Property consisted of rock chip samples along the trend. Historical exploration documentation shows that within the Property boundaries, 201 rock chip samples from exposed outcrops returned assay values ranging from trace to 7 g/t Au, with 40 samples returning assay values above 1 g/t Au. Rock chip samples also contain highly anomalous levels of Hg, Sb, and As, elements typical of shallowly-exposed epithermal systems. The historical geochemical data suggest that these outcrops may represent the upper portions of a productive hydrothermal system.

Radius has initiated its summer exploration program consisting of mapping, rock and soil sampling and prospecting with the intension of establishing the extent of current mineralized zones with an aim to developing drill targets to test these systems at depth.

The historical results given here are from previous explorers' exploration summary documents, and have not been independently verified by a Qualified Person. The exploration work summarized appears to have been done to an appropriate technical standard, however, and Radius's Qualified Person believes them to be reliable. Radius will be selectively resampling surface outcrop as part of its due diligence exploration work.

Qualified Person

David Clark, M.Sc., P.Geo., is Radius's Qualified Person under the terms of National Instrument 43-101, "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" and has approved the technical information in this news release.

About Radius

Radius has been exploring for gold in Latin America for over a decade. The Company has a strong treasury and is looking for investment and project acquisition opportunities across the globe. Please call toll free 1-888-627-9378 or visit our web site (www.radiusgold.com) for more information.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Simon Ridgway, President and 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 Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements which include, without limitation, statements about the Company's plans for the Bald Peak Property; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlook; the merit of the Company's investments and properties; timelines; the future financial performance of the Company; expenditures; approvals and other matters. Often, but not always, these forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "estimate", "estimates", "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "upgraded", "offset", "limited", "contained", "reflecting", "containing", "remaining", "to be", "periodically", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.

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 results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and factors include, among others, the Company's plans for exploring the Bald Peak Property; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; the Company or any joint venture partner not having the financial ability to meet its exploration and development goals; risks associated with the results of exploration and development activities, estimation of mineral resources and the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; unanticipated costs and expenses; and such other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's quarterly and annual filings with securities regulators and available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although 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 to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management, including but not limited to: that the Company's exploration activities at the Bald Peak Property will proceed as planned; that the Company's activities will be in accordance with its public statements and stated goals; that all required approvals will be obtained; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its investments or properties; and such other assumptions as set out herein. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company 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 law. 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, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Contacts:

Simon Ridgway

604-801-5432

Toll free: 1-888-627-9378

604-662-8829 (FAX)

info@goldgroup.com

www.radiusgold.com




Companies team on digital identity program

Accenture (NYSE:ACN) is leading a "call to action" and responding with blockchain and biometric technologies to support ID2020, a global public-private partnership dedicated to solving the challenges of identity faced by more than 1.1 billion people around the world.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619005193/en/

ID 2020 Logo (Graphic: Business Wire)

Approximately one-sixth of the world's population cannot participate in cultural, political, economic and social life because they lack the most basic information: documented proof of their existence. Establishing identity is critical to accessing a wide range of activities, including education, healthcare, voting, banking, mobile communications, housing, and family and childcare benefits. The goal of ID2020 is to make digital identity a reality through a technology-forward approach that will leverage secure and well-established systems.

Accenture, in partnership with Microsoft and Avanade, has developed an identity prototype based on blockchain technology a type of database system that enables multiple parties to share access to the same data with an extremely high level of confidence and security.

The prototype, which builds on Accenture's capabilities in blockchain and its experience developing and deploying large-scale biometric systems, runs on Microsoft Azure, the company's cloud platform that offers global scale, flexibility and security. The prototype is designed to empower individuals with direct consent over who has access to their personal information, and when to release and share data. It is a sophisticated decentralized, or "distributed," database architecture, maintained by multiple, trusted parties on the blockchain, eliminating the need for a central authority. The prototype does not store any personally identifiable information, instead tapping into existing "off-chain" systems when the individual user grants access. Accenture and Microsoft founding alliance partners of ID2020 who have pledged financial and technology resources demonstrated the prototype today at the ID2020 Summit at the U.N.

"People without a documented identity suffer by being excluded from modern society," said David Treat, a managing director in Accenture's global blockchain business. "Our prototype is personal, private and portable, empowering individuals to access and share appropriate information when convenient and without the worry of using or losing paper documentation."

How it works

The Accenture prototype is designed to interoperate with existing identity systems so that personally identifiable information always resides "off chain." It aligns to principles of the Decentralized Identity Foundation, of which Microsoft is a founding member, and uses the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance's private, or "permissioned," blockchain protocol.

To solve problems faced by people who lack official identities face, Accenture will leverage its Unique Identity Service Platform to deploy a breakthrough biometrics system that can manage fingerprints, iris and other data. For example, the technology can provide undocumented refugees with a steadfast personal identity record, ensuring that they can receive assistance where and when they need it. The Accenture Platform is the heart of the Biometric Identity Management System currently used by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which has enrolled more than 1.3 million refugees in 29 countries across Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. The system is expected to support more than 7 million refugees from 75 countries by 2020.

"We believe that identity is one of the most important needs in international development and an area where Microsoft and the private sector are uniquely positioned to contribute," said Yorke Rhodes, global business strategist at Microsoft. "We are thrilled to work with Accenture and bring Microsoft Azure's global scale, flexibility and security to support ID2020 and make progress on this critical societal need."

The prototype project was led by the multi-disciplinary team at The Dock, Accenture's new research and incubation hub in Ireland. A team of designers, software engineers and experts in blockchain worked to bring the idea to life.

"This is a great example of design and technology coming together to address the challenges facing so many vulnerable individuals in our society today," said Lorna Ross, group director, Accenture's Fjord Design Studio at The Dock. "We hope that this work will galvanize efforts globally towards a solution that guarantees the right to an identity for the invisible everywhere."

The ID2020 consortium brings together governments, NGOs, technologists and experts from the public and private sectors to ensure that the best technological innovations are implemented in ways that are scalable, secure and sustainable. Accenture had an integral role in a similar program, serving as a founding company and the consulting partner for the Partnership for Refugees, providing pro bono strategic consulting, project management and digital services. The Partnership helped more than 50 corporations better understand refugees' needs to develop effective responses across three impact areas: education, employment and enablement.

"One of our goals at Accenture is to improve how the world works and lives by digital technologies to solve some of our most pressing challenges," said Marty Rodgers, who leads Accenture's work with the Partnership for Refugees and is the global lead for Accenture's NGO practice. "ID2020 is another example of Accenture and our partners working together to support some of the world's most vulnerable people."

About Accenture

Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions underpinned by the world's largest delivery network Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 401,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619005193/en/

Contacts:

Accenture

Sean Conway, 1 917-592-5744

sean.k.conway@accenture.com

or

Joanne Veto, 1 703-947-2590

+ 1 703-963-4212 (mobile)

joanne.m.veto@accenture.com

@JoanneVeto

or

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SD-WAN Why AIOps Will Drive the Future of SD-WAN and the Evolution of SASE Networking
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2017 / Miranda Gold Corp. ("Miranda") (TSX-V: MAD) is pleased to announce it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Argelia Project from Bullet Holding Group ("Bullet") for payments and retained interests.

Argelia represents Miranda's focus on adding to its portfolio, robust epithermal gold systems that display numerous subparallel veins, which commonly show high gold values from systematic channel sampling. Eighteen or more distinct veins are observed in surveyed historic workings on the project - with ten showing sample values of greater than 10 g Au/t up to 109 g Au/t from 0.5 meters to 4 meters sampled vein widths. The best sample returned 20.5 g Au/t over 4 meters in a historic crosscut. Approximately 100 meters vertically below this crosscut, there is another adit on the same vein showing one meter at 20 g Au/t, suggesting that a mineralized "shoot" may exist between the two levels. Public records report that a private British company mined on the project prior to 1950 in the area of the upper crosscut and lower adit.

The veins appear to be distributed sub-parallel across a regional-scale, 2-kilometer northeast trending shear zone and exposures extend for 8 kilometers along strike. The veins strike at an oblique angle to the shear zone and may be emplaced in dilational structures, secondary to the main shear. Veins are only noted in workings, and it is likely that significantly more veins are unexposed across the shear zone. The style of mineralization and associated metals suggest that Argelia is an intermediate sulfidation (IS) epithermal system.

Argelia joins Miranda's Cerro Oro, Mallama, and San Lucas projects; all characterized by epithermal veins with significant vein density and extent, and common high-grade channel samples. Since Colombia has recently permitted three underground mines for full production, Miranda feels it is prudent to hold robust underground targets as part of its portfolio.The selection of these particular projects follows several years of exploration and evaluation by Miranda.

Buritica analog vein systems are still the exploration "holy grail" in Colombia, as evidenced by the recent strategic investment totaling $134 million by Newmont Mining Corporation and Red Kite Mine Finance in Continental Gold Ltd. While with work to date, only San Lucas is clearly a Carbonate Base Metal (CBM) gold system similar to Buritica, all of Miranda's vein projects were screened for the potential to deliver future major company production profiles and resources. As Colombia appears to be quickly drawing interest from major mining companies, this character is important for Miranda's Prospect Generator-Joint Venture business model.

The Argelia Project totals 5,400 hectares in three exploration applications, and is 145km or about four hours by road from Medellin, within the Antioquia Department. No indigenous lands impact the project. However, the project requires subtraction from the forestry reserve - as do all applications granted under the "Second Law" - and they then must be converted to title. This work will begin immediately.

The Argelia acquisition is a result of Miranda's sampling (including work by Bullet) and reconnaissance evaluations during the last resource market down-cycle. Miranda has maintained an active presence in Colombia while waiting for quality projects to become available and for security risks in certain areas to become more manageable - as a result of the armistice that was signed between the Colombian government and opposition groups.

Agreement Details

The terms of this agreement require that Miranda makes the following series of payments and a share issuance - all based on the occurrence of the following events:





A residual net profits interest ("NPI") of 4% - or - a residual net smelter royalty ("NSR") of 1.5% - whichever is greater - will be payable to the vendor, until US$6.0m has been paid - at which time an NSR of 1.5% will be payable for the life of the mine.

There are no minimum work commitments on Argelia, and there is no area of influence restrictions for Miranda any adjacent property.

About Miranda

Miranda is a gold Prospect Generator active in Alaska and Colombia, whose emphasis is on acquiring gold exploration projects with world-class discovery potential. Miranda performs its own grass roots exploration and then employs a joint venture business model on its projects to maximize our exposure to discovery and minimize exploration risk. Miranda has ongoing relationships with IAMGOLD Corporation, Gold Torrent, Inc., and Montezuma Mines Inc.



ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joseph (Joe) Hebert, Chief Executive Officer

+1-775-340-0450

Email: joseph.hebert75@gmail.com

www.mirandagold.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 contains forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's current expectations and estimates. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan," "expect," "project," "intend," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "suggest," "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results implied or expressed in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: the actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans to continue to be refined; possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates; accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing; and fluctuations in metal prices. There may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

Notice to US investors:

U.S. investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on our properties. We advise U.S. investors that the SEC's mining guidelines strictly prohibit information of this type in documents filed with the SEC.

This press release may use the terms "measured resources," "indicated resources" and "inferred resources," which are estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Classification system. We advise investors that while those terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. In addition, "Inferred resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in certain exceptional cases. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally minable.

SOURCE: Miranda Gold Corp.
IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2017 / Khang & Khang LLP (the "Firm") announces a securities class action lawsuit against ImmunoCellular Therapeutics, Ltd. ("ImmunoCellular" or the "Company") (NYSE MKT: IMUC). Investors, who purchased or otherwise acquired shares between May 1, 2012 and December 11, 2013, inclusive (the "Class Period"), are encouraged to contact the Firm before the June 30, 2017 lead plaintiff motion deadline.

If you purchased ImmunoCellular shares during the Class Period, please contact Joon M. Khang, Esq., of Khang & Khang LLP, 18101 Von Karman Avenue, 3rd Floor, Irvine, CA 92612, by telephone at (949) 419-3834 , or by e-mail at joon@khanglaw.com.

There has been no class certification in this case yet. Until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. You may also choose to take no action and remain a passive class member.

According to the Complaint, during the Class Period, ImmunoCellular issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose: that the Company retained Lidingo Holdings, LLC to publish promotional articles designed to unlawfully promote the Company; and that the market was led to believe that ImmunoCellular's clinical studies for its product candidate, ICT-107, were going well, thus the share price was artificially inflated. When this news was released, ImmunoCellular's stock price fell significantly, which harmed investors according to the Complaint. On April 10, 2017, the SEC announced enforcement actions against several individuals and entities, including ImmunoCellular, that engaged in stock promotion schemes.

If you wish to learn more about this lawsuit, or if you have any questions about this notice or your rights, please contact Joon M. Khang, Esquire, a prominent litigator for nearly two decades, by telephone at (949) 419-3834 , or via e-mail at joon@khanglaw.com.

This press release may constitute Attorney Advertising in certain jurisdictions.

Contact:

Joon M. Khang, Esq.

Telephone: 949-419-3834

Facsimile: 949-225-4474

joon@khanglaw.com

SOURCE: Khang & Khang LLP
With over 10,000 Reviews, TruthFinder's People Search App Celebrates 4.6 out of 5 Stars

SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2017 / TruthFinder's Android app recently acquired 10,000 reviews on Google Play. Users have overwhelmingly praised the app, leaving 7,500 five star reviews. Overall, it has maintained a 4.6-star rating. The app, called TruthFinder Background Check, accesses millions of public records, turning available data into easy-to-read background reports.

TruthFinder's mobile app provides background checks, reverse phone lookups, and email searches, directly from a user's smartphone. Users can enter a name, phone number, or email address and view detailed information about almost anyone in the United States, including contact information, social media accounts, location information, related persons, census data, nearby sex offenders, and more.

On Google Play, reviewers celebrate the app's accurate reports, depth of information, and overall value, calling it "head and shoulders above the rest." Developer Adam Rich said, "There are other background check services out there, but none of them have the same ease of use and quality of data that TruthFinder provides. People love our app because we put a lot of resources and creative thinking behind it, and we're excited to continue improving it with future updates."

The TruthFinder app offers a limited number of free standard background reports for new customers. Standard reports include a person's full name, address, date of birth, related persons, photos, criminal records, and more, when available. For a nominal fee, users can upgrade any standard report to a premium report in order to view additional sensitive data, such as bankruptcies and voter registration.

Click here to watch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_krHuWP4-0

The TruthFinder app is available now on Google Play in the United States.

ABOUT TRUTHFINDER

TruthFinder is an online service that provides the public record, people finder, and criminal record information to members on a subscription basis. TruthFinder utilizes data from state, federal and various local sources, which have been aggregated and made available electronically. TruthFinder's user-friendly reports compile public records describing people living in the U.S. Some of the databases that TruthFinder utilizes include state sex offender information, county arrest records, court dockets, census records, and various other public records. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports, nor is it a consumer-reporting agency, and it may not be used for consumer credit, insurance, employment, tenant screening, or any other purpose subject to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). For more information, please review the TruthFinder help page.

Media Contact:

Kristle Khoury, Public Relations Director

kristle.khoury@thecontrolgroup.com

3111 Camino Del Rio N Suite 400

San Diego, CA, 92108

SOURCE: TruthFinder
ST-GEORGES, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Komutel, a leading unified communication solution developer, today announced that its SIT2 IP Console is compliant with key team engagement solutions from Avaya, a global provider of business communications software, systems and services.

The SIT2 Console helps businesses integrate their telephone system with their corporate directory and other data sources to simplify professional call handling. The application is now compliance-tested by Avaya for compatibility with Avaya Aura Session Manager 7.0 and Avaya Aura Communication Manager 7.0.

Komutel is a Technology Partner in the Avaya DevConnect program-an initiative to develop, market and sell innovative third-party products that interoperate with Avaya technology and extend the value of a company's investment in its network. Its SIT2 Console solution is available for order through the DevConnect Select Product Program.

As a Technology Partner, Komutel is eligible to submit products for compliance testing by the Avaya Solution Interoperability and Test Lab. There, a team of Avaya engineers develops a comprehensive test plan for each application to verify whether it is Avaya compatible. Doing so enables businesses to confidently add best-in-class capabilities to their network without having to replace their existing infrastructure-speeding deployment of new applications and reducing both network complexity and implementation costs.

Quotes:

"We are very proud that our console SIT2 has passed compliance testing with the Avaya Aura Platform. The SIT2 Console is a powerful solution for enterprises of all sizes looking to improve their customer relationships as well as employee productivity. With this testing, customers can confidently deploy the SIT2 Console in their Avaya network."

-- Richard Poulin, CEO, Komutel

"Komutel's SIT2 Console has undergone formalized interoperability testing. Working with leading technology companies like Komutel to confirm compatibility through the Avaya DevConnect program helps us extend the range of complementary solutions available to Avaya customers, helping maximize their investment in Avaya platforms."

-- Eric Rossman, vice president, Developer Relations, Avaya

Additional Resources

www.devconnectmarketplace.com/komutel

www.avaya.com/devconnect

About Avaya

Avaya enables the mission critical, real-time communication applications of the world's most important operations. As the global leader in delivering superior communications experiences, Avaya provides the most complete portfolio of software and services for contact center and unified communications with integrated, secure networking- offered on premises, in the cloud, or a hybrid. Today's digital world requires some form of communications enablement, and no other company is better positioned to do this than Avaya. For more information please visit www.avaya.com.

About Komutel

Komutel is an Enterprise Communication Software Developer, specializing in the development and marketing of open-ended and innovative solutions in the telecommunications sector. Komutel, leader in network and platform integration solutions (IT, VoIP, UC, Voice Mail, Mobility, Radio), is a recognized provider of user-friendly, versatile and value added solutions. Komutel customers span across many industry sectors such as Health Care, Finance, Insurance, Public Safety, Education and more. Komutel "Kloud" solutions' portfolio includes: call center applications, Inbound Intelligence Integration, CDR reporting, PC Consoles, IVR, Call Recording, as well as various business specific modules, respectively maximizing communication performance in their industry sectors. Komutel suite of products, available in the "cloud" or as a premise based, reinvents the basics and adds significant meaning to customers' unified communications solutions. For more information, visit our website: www.komutel.com

Contacts:

Media Inquiries:

Ann-Marie Morin

418-225-9988

ann-marie.morin@komutel.com



Media Inquiries:

DevConnect PR

613-595-9223

devconnect@avaya.com




OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

Openness, transparency and accountability are guiding principles of the Government of Canada. Today, in the most comprehensive information reform in a generation, President of the Treasury Board Scott Brison introduced significant amendments to modernize the Access to Information Act, expand the scope of the law and make more government information open by default.

The package proposes to break new ground by giving the Information Commissioner increased powers, including the ability to order the release of documents. It creates new requirements for proactive publication of a broad range of information and extends those to more than 240 government institutions. These changes will put more government information in the hands of Canadians and provide greater transparency on the use of public funds.

For the first time, legislated proactive disclosure will be included under the Act and applied to the Prime Minister's and Ministers' offices, Members of Parliament and Senators, as well as institutions that support Parliament and the courts. A full legislative review of the Act would be required every five years so that it never again becomes outdated, with the first review beginning no later than one year after Royal Assent.

The Government's modernization of the Access to Information system began with interim measures introduced in 2016 and will continue with future reviews. The proposed amendments confirm the interim measures and include new ones to modernize the efficiency and performance of the access to information system.

Quotes

"Thirty four years is too long without major reforms to Canada's access-to-information system. Today we're taking action to make information open by default and easily accessible to Canadians, solidifying this country's leadership role in the global movement to improve transparency and open government."

- Scott Brison, President of the Treasury Board

"This legislation would ensure that the Access to Information Act is applied appropriately to the administrative bodies that support the courts, enhancing accountability and transparency, while protecting the independence of the judiciary.

- Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

"For the first time, the Access to Information Act will require the proactive disclosure of information by the Prime Minister's Office, Ministers' offices, parliamentarians, administrative institutions that support Parliament, and others. Today's reforms are an important step in an ongoing review and modernization of the Act. Our government is raising the bar and enshrining a culture of openness and transparency across government."

- Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions

Quick Facts

-- The government stopped collecting fees other than a $5 application fee last year and will continue this practice. -- Since the Act came into force on July 1, 1983, the Government has processed 762,243 access to information requests, or about 85 every working day. -- Canadians can view summaries of completed requests online on the Open Information section of open.canada.ca -- New proactive publication requirements will not apply to the publication of any information that would interfere with judicial independence and Parliamentary privilege nor would they apply to information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege or could compromise the security of persons or goods

Related Products

-- Fact Sheets

Associated Links

-- Revitalizing Access to Information -- Access to Information Act -- Completed Access to Information Requests

Contacts:

Bruce Cheadle

Director of Communications

Office of the President of the Treasury Board

613-369-3163



Media Relations

Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

613-369-9400

media@tbs-sct.gc.ca

TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired):

613-369-9371




TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/19/17 -- Editors note: A photo is available on the Canadian Press picture wire via Marketwired

OTT Financial, a Canadian financial services company, announced today that its payment platform, OTT Pay, has officially signed a cooperation agreement with Alipay of Ant Financial Services Group to provide Alipay services for Canadian merchants and Chinese consumers.

With this partnership, OTT Pay will enable over 450 million active Alipay users to pay for Canadian products and services in Chinese RMB, just as they are accustomed to in China. To Canadian merchants, they operate as usual, both selling and receiving payments in Canadian Dollars.

"As mobile payment acceptance continues to grow in North America, over 450 merchants across Canada are accepting Alipay now", said Souheil Badran, President of Alipay North America, "we want to continue offering Chinese consumers visiting Canada the ability to pay as they would in China. We are glad to partner with OTT Financial as they share the same belief of bringing convenience to clients by using mobile technologies".

"We are excited to be partnering with Alipay to connect Canadian merchants to Chinese consumers." said Cory Taylor, Head of OTT Pay, "Adding Alipay to OTT Pay's existing offering will enable us to provide better services to merchants and consumers. Canadian merchants will benefit through increased sales and a differentiated retail experience to Chinese consumers in this "win-win" business model. China is Canada's third-largest overseas market for tourists, and Chinese visitors contribute over $1 billion annually to Canada's economy. We expect our services to add more value to all users."

The Honourable Michael Chan, Ontario Minister of International Trade expressed his congratulations to both parties. "Our Government values its mutually beneficial relationship with our second largest trading partner, China," said Michael Chan, "Today's signing between Ontario-based OTT Financial and Alipay builds on that strong foundation by bringing Canadian retailers and Chinese visitors to Canada closer together through technology. This agreement also positions Ontario as a premier destination for Chinese tourists, and more specifically, one that boasts greater convenience and accessibility for them."

In May this year, OTT Pay officially launched in Canada via its WeChat Pay offering. Hundreds of Canadian merchants ranging from shopping centres, travel agencies, hotels, health services, supermarkets, international logistics, educational services, restaurants, and convenience stores are in the process of enrollment to OTT Pay. These merchants will be the first to enjoy the benefits that Alipay offers.

About OTT Financial

OTT Financial and its related companies have multiple lines of business in the Canadian financial services industry. OTT Financial Canada Inc. is an investment dealer registered with the securities regulators in Canada and a member of IIROC and CIPF. OTT Capital Corporation is an exempt market dealer as well as a portfolio manager and investment fund manager. OTT Financial Inc. provides foreign exchange services and OTT Pay is the payment platform that serves Canadian merchants and Chinese consumers. Since 2006, OTT has been dedicated to delivering values for its clients and creating positive impact for the communities served by the OTT group of companies.

About Alipay

Operated by Ant Financial Services Group, Alipay is the world's leading mobile and online payment platform. Launched in 2004, Alipay currently has over 450 million active users and over 400 financial institution partners. Alipay has evolved from a digital wallet to a lifestyle enabler. Users can hail a taxi, book a hotel, buy movie tickets, pay utility bills, make appointments with doctors, or purchase wealth management products directly from within the app. In addition to online payments, Alipay is expanding to in-store offline payments both inside and outside of China. Over 8 million brick-and-mortar merchants now accept Alipay across China. Alipay's in-store payment service is covering more than 120,000 retail stores across the world, and tax reimbursement via Alipay is supported in 24 countries and regions. Alipay works with over 200 overseas financial institutions and payment solution providers to enable cross-border payments for Chinese travelling overseas and overseas customers who purchase products from Chinese e-commerce sites. Alipay currently supports 19 currencies.

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/CPiOTTFinancial0615.jpg

Contacts:

OTT Financial

Xiaofen Tang

Marketing & Communications

xiaofen.tang@ott.ca




New WBA report reveals a third (34%) of those without internet connectivity reside in major urban centers

London is the most connected city, with only 7% unconnected

Gap between urban and rural unconnected fading in mature markets

A new study by the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) reveals a staggering 1.75bn citizens in the world's eight richest countries (by GDP) remain unconnected with 34% residing in major urban centers. The report, launched today, highlights that the digital divide remains a global problem, despite the fact, that driving universal connectivity is a common priority for all countries.

The new study, undertaken by IHS Markit to mark World Wi-Fi Day, explores the levels of urban and rural connectivity across eight major countries: Brazil, China, Germany, India, Japan, Russia, the UK and the USA. It also uncovers the challenges faced and the initiatives being implemented by five of the world's major cities: Delhi, London, Moscow, New York and Sao Paulo.

Key findings from the report reveal:

Delhi and Sao Paulo have the largest number of unconnected citizens. 29% (5.331 million) of the population of Delhi are unconnected, 36% in Sao Paolo, (4.349 million) are unconnected

London is the most connected city, with just 7% of citizens unconnected (625,336)

19% of people in New York City are unconnected (1.600 million), while 17% of people in Moscow are unconnected (2.154 million)

Country Region Total unconnected individuals (Million) Total unconnected individuals as of total population Brazil Latin America 90.638 43.25 China Asia Pacific 649.388 47.01 Germany Europe 10.683 13.00 India Asia Pacific 853.386 68.55 Japan Asia Pacific 20.241 16.04 Russia Europe 39.335 26.85 United Kingdom Europe 8.384 12.83 United States North America 78.401 24.18

Internet adoption has been faster in cities than in rural areas, however urban areas still face significant challenges to expanding internet users. These challenges include limited spending power, lack of availability of technology, lack of awareness of benefits gained from using the internet, and also, IT literacy levels.

In both developing and mature markets, availability of affordable internet services is still an obstacle to connectivity. Even among those countries with higher average salaries, the existence of economic and social divides significantly shapes the issue of the digital divide.

In New York, one of the greatest barriers to connectivity is the quality and affordability of internet connections

For Londoners, IT skills and an understanding of the benefits provided by being connected are, along with spending power, key challenges to internet adoption

Moscow has faced specific challenges related to infrastructure, developing an integrated approach to promoting internet adoption, and ensuring a high standard and quality of internet services.

The report also highlights the many benefits and opportunities unconnected individuals miss out, from generating savings to personal development as a result of not having access to information and education services. What's more, digital inclusion is an engine for economic growth for cities, nations, and businesses of all sizes as it helps to attract investment, start new companies and stimulate innovation.

"Connectivity is now an essential commodity, much in the same category as power and water. Yet many people in some of the world's major cities are still without an internet connection," said Shrikant Shenwai, CEO of the WBA. "Wi-Fi is playing an instrumental role in helping cities bring wider and more affordable connectivity to its citizens. The WBA is committed to helping cities bridge the digital divide through initiatives like World Wi-Fi Day and our Connected City Advisory Board, and see Wi-Fi as key to bringing connectivity to everyone, everywhere."

"The issue of the urban unconnected is of critical importance the economies and societies around the world. We call on Governments around the world to re-double their focus on connecting the urban unconnected. It's vital that internet access becomes recognized as a human right, and that all stakeholders involved in the provision of broadband work together to make this happen," added Shenwai.

World Wi-Fi Day was launched by the WBA in 2016 to help accelerate the deployment of affordable connectivity globally. The initiative encourages cities and government bodies, as well as operators, service providers, technology vendors and internet giants, to come together to deliver connectivity to everyone, everywhere.

For more information on World Wi-Fi Day, please visit http://worldwifiday.com/. The full white paper, entitled 'The Urban Unconnected', is available to download here.

About the Wireless Broadband Alliance

Founded in 2003, the mission of the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) is to accelerate global leadership for enabling of wireless services that are seamless, secure and interoperable. Building on our heritage of Next Generation Hotspot (NGH) and carrier Wi-Fi, WBA will continue to drive and support the adoption of Next Generation Wireless services across the entire public Wi-Fi ecosystem, including IoT, Converged Services, Smart Cities, 5G, etc. Today, membership includes major fixed operators such as BT, Comcast and Charter Communications; seven of the top 10 mobile operator groups (by revenue) and leading technology companies such as Cisco, Microsoft, Huawei Technologies, Google and Intel.

The WBA Board includes AT&T, Boingo Wireless, BT, China Telecom, Cisco Systems, Comcast, Intel, KT Corporation, Liberty Global, NTT DOCOMO, Orange and Ruckus Wireless. For a complete list of current WBA members, please click here.

Follow Wireless Broadband Alliance at:

www.twitter.com/wballiance

http://www.facebook.com/WirelessBroadbandAlliance

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=50482

https://plus.google.com/106744820987466669966/posts

Research Methodology

The white paper is the result of the research conducted on the topic of the digital divide and urban unconnected across eight leading countries (Brazil, China, Germany, India, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America) with deep dive studies provided for five global cities.

The research was carried out through primary and secondary research and was complemented by interviews with city authorities and experts on the issue of digital divide and connectivity.

For the purpose of this report an unconnected individual is defined as an individual who does not have access to or cannot afford broadband connectivity. Sources used for this white paper include, among others, national statistical offices, city statistical offices, national telecoms regulators, city departments websites, internet usage or adoption surveys, IHS Markit proprietary data, and other sources such as the International Telecoms Union (ITU), the United Nation, and the World Bank.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619005681/en/

Contacts:

CCgroup PR

Chloe Pope

WBA@ccgrouppr.com

+44 203 824 9200
LONDON, July 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

The Revolution is Here

The Cell & Gene Therapy Manufacturing Summit is the only conference that is 100% dedicated to focusing on development of manufacturing processes for cell & gene products. Featuring presentations on improving cost efficiency, innovative strategies for commercialisation as well as closed system processing, optimised manufacturing scheduling and maintaining GMP compliance.

The conference will take place in London on the 11th - 13th September. Early registration is rewarded so visit the event website for the latest early bird rates or email enquire@iqpc.co.uk to find out more.

With cell and gene manufacturing activity on the rise, the race towards commercialisation of cell and gene products has already begun. Where technology innovations are pathing the way towards the development of these products, challenges surrounding scale up and closed system processing highlight areas that need focus so that cell and gene therapy products can be produced on an industrial scale. Pharma IQ will be addressing the key barriers and opportunities in enhancing the development of cell and gene therapies, with the focus on how manufacturing processes can be improved ready for the market boom!

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Press are invited to attend this important industry summit, if you would like to a complimentary press pass please email Rumina Akther on rumina.akther@iqpc.co.uk
83North, a London, UK, and Tel Aviv, Israelbased tech venture capital firm, announced that Joe Tucci has joined the company as Special Advisor.

Former CEO and Chairman of EMC Corporation, Tucci will advise the venture capital firm and support its portfolio companies as they scale globally.

Until September 2016, he was the CEO and Chairman of EMC. Tucci joined EMC in 2000. In 2016, EMC merged with global IT company Dell in a one of the biggest technology mergers in recent history and valued EMC at $67 billion.

He stepped down from the organization following the closure of the deal.

Today, he is the Co-CEO and Co-Chairman of GTY Technology Holdings and the Chairman of Bridge Growth Partners.

Led by Gil Goren, General Partner, 83North (fka Greylock IL, an affiliate fund of Greylock Partners) is a global venture capital firm backing market leaders such as Just Eat, Hybris (acquired by SAP), ScaleIO (acquired by EMC), Social Point (acquired by Take2), Celonis, Guardicore, iZettle, Payoneer, Via, Actifio and Zerto.

The firm, which recently closed its fourth venture fund at $250m, is operating globally, managing over $800 million.

FinSMEs

19/06/2017
Supreme Court of Montana. STATE OF MONTANA, Plaintiff and Appellee, v. DANIEL KENNETH MEYER, Defendant and Appellant. DA 15-0764 Decided: May 30, 2017

COUNSEL OF RECORD: For Appellant: Chad Wright, Chief Appellate Defender, Alexander H. Pyle, Assistant Appellate Defender, Helena, Montana For Appellee: Timothy C. Fox, Montana Attorney General, Madison L. Mattioli, Assistant Attorney General, Helena, Montana, Ed Corrigan, Flathead County Attorney, Kenneth R. Park, Deputy County Attorney, Kalispell, Montana

Chief Justice Mike McGrath delivered the Opinion of the Court.

1 Daniel Kenneth Meyer appeals from the District Court's order filed October 27, 2015, affirming Meyer's conviction of Aggravated DUI in the Justice Court of Flathead County. We affirm the District Court's order.

2 The issue on appeal is whether the District Court properly affirmed Meyer's Justice Court DUI conviction.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

3 In January 2015 the State charged Meyer with several offenses, including Aggravated Driving Under the Influence as provided in  61-8-465, MCA. That statute provides that Aggravated DUI consists, in part, of being in violation of one of the DUI statutes while having a prior conviction of DUI within ten years, or two or more prior convictions during any time period. Meyer had one prior DUI conviction within ten years of the current offense and two prior DUI convictions total. Meyer does not contest the existence of the prior DUI convictions.

4 The day prior to the commencement of trial in Justice Court, Meyer filed a motion in limine seeking to exclude evidence of any prior convictions under M. R. Evid. 403 and 404. Rule 403 allows a judge to exclude relevant evidence if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice, confusion of the issues, or misleading the jury, or by considerations of undue delay, waste of time, or needless presentation of cumulative evidence. Rule 404 applies to character evidence, and subsection (b) limits admissibility of other crimes, wrongs or acts when offered to prove the character of a person to show action in conformity with that character. Meyer contended that the evidence of prior convictions was more prejudicial than probative and should therefore be excluded. He offered to stipulate to the prior convictions for sentencing purposes as long as the jury did not hear about them.

5 The Justice Court determined that conviction of a prior DUI is an element of the charge of Aggravated DUI; that the State had the burden to prove the prior offense at trial; and that the State could meet its burden by introducing a copy of Meyer's driving record. The Justice Court admitted Meyer's certified driving record into evidence. It contained two entries (for years 2001 and 2005) that indicated that Meyers had prior convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol. No other material details of the prior convictions are contained in the driving record.

6 The Justice Court instructed the jury on the statutory elements of the offense of Aggravated DUI, including the requirement that the defendant has one prior conviction or pending charge for a violation of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Operating a Vehicle with an Alcohol Concentration in Excess of .08 within 10 years of the commission of the present offense. The Justice Court jury convicted Meyer of Aggravated DUI.

7 Meyer appealed the conviction to the District Court in Flathead County, which conducted an appellate review based upon the Justice Court record. The District Court considered Meyer's contention that evidence of his prior DUI offenses was not an element of the crime of Aggravated DUI, but was relevant only as a penalty provision so did not need to be proven at trial. Meyer also argued that evidence of his prior convictions was prejudicial under M. R. Evid. 403 and 404 and should therefore be excluded.

8 The District Court agreed with the Justice Court that evidence of Meyer's prior DUI convictions proved an element of the charged crime of Aggravated DUI that must be determined by the jury. The District Court concluded that a charge of Aggravated DUI under  61-8-465, MCA, requires evidence of a jury determination that the defendant had been convicted or charged with prior DUI violations. Meyer's offer to stipulate to the prior convictions at sentencing failed to address the issue that the Aggravated DUI statute requires the jury to find that there were prior DUI convictions in order to convict Meyer of the charged offense.

9 The District Court affirmed Meyer's conviction of Aggravated DUI and Meyer appeals.

STANDARD OF REVIEW

10 This Court reviews cases that originate in justice court and are appealed to district court as if the appeal were originally filed in this Court, undertaking an independent examination of the record. State v. Kebble, 2015 MT 195,  14, 380 Mont. 69, 353 P.3d 1175. The Flathead County Justice Court is a court of record, and the appeal to the District Court was an appeal on the record, with the District Court functioning as an intermediate appellate court. Sections 3-5-303, 3-10-115, MCA; Stanley v. Lamire, 2006 MT 304,  24, 334 Mont. 489, 148 P.3d 643. In an appeal from a justice court of record, the district court's review is confined to the record. The district court reviews the justice court findings of fact to determine whether they meet the clearly erroneous standard, reviews discretionary rulings for abuse of discretion, and legal conclusions to determine whether they are correct. Stanley,  25.

11 On appeal from the district court's review of the justice court decision, this Court examines the record independently to determine whether the justice court's findings of fact meet the clearly erroneous standard, whether its discretionary rulings were an abuse of discretion, and whether its legal conclusions were correct. Stanley,  26.

12 This Court reviews a district court's decisions on the admissibility of evidence for an abuse of discretion, which occurs when the district court acts arbitrarily or unreasonably, resulting in a substantial injustice. State v. Jenkins, 2011 MT 287,  4, 362 Mont. 481, 265 P.3d 643. This Court reviews a district court's decision on issues of law to determine whether the decision was correct. State v. Frickey, 2006 MT 122,  9, 332 Mont. 255, 136 P.3d 558.

DISCUSSION

13 Issue: Whether the District Court properly affirmed Meyer's Justice Court DUI conviction.

14 The determination of whether a jury must find a fact beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal case turns upon whether the fact is an element of the offense. Alleyne v. United States, ___ U.S. ___, 133 S. Ct. 2151, 2158 (2013). A fundamental principle of the criminal justice system is that the State bears the burden to prove each element of a charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. State v. Daniels, 2011 MT 278,  33, 362 Mont. 426, 265 P.3d 623. Identifying the elements of an offense turns upon whether the Legislature intended to create a separate offense, or to authorize the court to increase punishment after conviction. Almendarez-Torres v. United States, 523 U.S. 224, 233-35, 118 S. Ct. 1219, 1225-26 (1998).

15 The reviewing court will first consider the plain language of the statute to determine legislative intent. Infinity Ins. Co. v. Dodson, 2000 MT 287,  46, 302 Mont. 209, 14 P.3d 487. Section 61-8-465, MCA, defines the offense of Aggravated DUI in Montana:

(1) A person commits the offense of aggravated driving under the influence if the person is in violation of 61-8-401, 61-8-405 or 61-8-411 and:

(a) the person's alcohol concentration, as shown by analysis of the person's blood or breath is 0.16 or more;

(b) the person is under the order of a court or the department to equip any motor vehicle the person operates with an approved ignition interlock device;

(c) the person's driver's license or privilege to drive is suspended, canceled, or revoked as a result of a prior violation of 61-8-401, 61-8-406 or 61-8-411;

(d) the person refuses to provide a breath or blood sample as required in 61-8-402 and the person's driver's license or privilege to drive was suspended, canceled, or revoked under 61-8-492 within 10 years of the commission of the present offense, or

(e) the person has one prior conviction or pending charge for the violation of 45-5-106, 45-5-205, 61-8-401, 61-8-496, 61-8-411 or this section within 10 years of the commission of the present offense or has two or more prior convictions or pending charges or any combination thereof, for violations of 45-5-106, 45-5-205, 61-8-401, 61-8-496, or 61-8-411.

Subsequent subsections of the statute provide separate punishments for first, second and subsequent convictions for Aggravated DUI.

16 It is clear from the plain language of subsection (1) of  61-8-465, MCA, that the Legislature chose to create a single offense of Aggravated DUI, with five alternative offense elements in addition to a present charge of DUI. These alternative offense elements include having a high blood alcohol concentration; being under court order to use an ignition interlock device; driving with a suspended, canceled or revoked license; refusing to provide a breath or blood sample; and having one or more prior DUI convictions. It is beyond argument that  61-8-465, MCA, provides separate alternative offense elements, so that the State is required to prove the applicable element at trial beyond a reasonable doubt in order to obtain a conviction. These alternative elements clearly show the Legislature's intent to target habitual or repeat DUI offenders.

17 It is also plain from the language of the statute that the Legislature listed the elements of the offense of Aggravated DUI separate and apart from the penalty provisions. The elements of the offense in subsection (1) define the offense of Aggravated DUI and not the punishment. The punishments appear in subsections (2) through (6) of  61-8-465, MCA. The requirement that the jury find that there was a prior DUI conviction is part and parcel of the jury's decision to convict. It is listed as an element of the offense and it does not expose the defendant to any greater punishment than the punishment that attends the conviction itself. Apprendi v. New Jersey, 530 U.S. 466, 494, 120 S. Ct. 2348, 2365 (2000); State v. Weldele, 2003 MT 117,  37, 315 Mont. 452, 69 P.3d 1162.

18 The existence of a prior conviction is often a factor that allows the judge to impose increased punishment after conviction. The existence of the prior conviction may be determined by the judge at sentencing and does not need to be found as a fact by the jury. Apprendi, 530 U.S. at 490, 120 S. Ct. at 2362-63;  46-1-401, MCA. Such an enhancing act that allows imposition of a greater sentence is one that is not included in the statutory definition of the elements of the charged offense. Section 46-1-401(3), MCA. However, that is not the case here, where the prior conviction is clearly stated as a statutory element of the offense.

19 Meyer agrees that the aggravation elements in  61-8-465, MCA, including prior DUI offenses, are elements of the crime of Aggravated DUI. However, he contends that they are recidivism elements that need not be proven beyond a reasonable doubt under Apprendi. This contention is based upon the mistaken premise that the alternative aggravation factors in  61-8-465, MCA, are sentencing considerations. They are not, as explained above, but rather are substantive requirements that the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction.

20 Meyer's reliance upon prior decisions of this Court is likewise misplaced. In Weldele the defendant was charged with the offense of DUI. He attacked the validity of one or more of his prior DUI convictions that the State intended to use to enhance the punishment for his DUI to a felony. This Court held that under Apprendi the State did not have to prove the prior DUI convictions to the jury because they applied at sentencing. Weldele,  40. The other cases that Meyer relies upon in this context, State v. Covington, 2012 MT 31, 364 Mont. 118, 272 P.3d 43, and State v. Vaughn, 2007 MT 164, 338 Mont. 97, 164 P.3d 873, both involved issues of sentence enhancement based upon prior felony convictions and are therefore not analogous to the present case.

21 The state of Arizona has an aggravated DUI statute very similar to the Montana statute under consideration in the present case. In State v. Root, 985 P.2d 494 (Az. 1999), the Arizona Court considered an appeal of an aggravated DUI conviction. The defendant argued that determination of the aggravation factor should be bifurcated from the issue of the present DUI, so that the jury would never hear about his driving record. The Arizona Court held that the aggravation factor was an element of the crime that must be found by the jury beyond a reasonable doubt, and that the State was required to prove the factor to show the nature of the prior offense. Root,  12. The aggravation factors in the Arizona statute were elements of the crime of aggravated DUI, were not a mere sentencing consideration, and the determination could not be delegated to the judge in a case tried to a jury. Root,  12-13. Those same considerations apply in the present case.

22 Meyer argues that it was impermissibly prejudicial to his interests to allow the jury to know that he was twice convicted of DUI. He argues that the prior DUIs were erroneously admitted (based on M. R. Evid. 403 and 404) and that the State must demonstrate that there is no reasonable possibility that the evidence contributed to his conviction. Rule 403 allows a district court to exclude admissible evidence if its probative value is outweighed by its prejudicial effect, and that determination is within the sound discretion of the court. State v. Mayes, 251 Mont. 358, 371-72, 825 P.2d 1196 (1992). Rule 404 places limitations on the admission of evidence concerning other crimes or wrongs. State v. Stewart, 2012 MT 317,  61, 367 Mont. 503, 291 P.3d 1187.

23 Evidence is probative if it has any tendency to make the existence of a fact that is consequential to the determination of the action more or less probable than without it. M. R. Evid. 401. Evidence is relevant and admissible if there is a link between the evidence and a fact or element in question. State v. Wilmer, 2011 MT 78,  14, 360 Mont. 101, 252 P.3d 178. The element in question in this case was a prior DUI conviction.

24 The evidence of prior DUIs was not erroneously admitted. Proof of the prior DUI was required as an element of the offense of aggravated DUI. Indeed, the evidence contributed to the conviction because it established a statutory element required for a conviction. Undoubtedly the admission of the evidence was prejudicial. However, the use of the prior DUIs was not impermissibly prejudicial. The State established this necessary element of the offense through a copy of Meyer's driving record which indicated only that he had a prior conviction and the date. There were no other details of the prior offenses and admitting evidence of a statutory element of the charged offense was not trial error.

25 Admissible probative evidence in a criminal prosecution will frequently and inevitably be prejudicial to the defendant, because the purpose of the proceeding is to secure a conviction and to impose a sanction. State v. Swenson, 2008 MT 308,  25, 346 Mont. 34, 194 P.3d 625 (concerning evidence of prior bad acts by the defendant). While evidence of Meyer's prior convictions may have made him uncomfortable, that is the nature of a criminal prosecution. A defendant does not have the right to have the prosecution sanitized to the point that important and probative evidence must be excluded. State v. Cox, 266 Mont. 110, 122, 879 P.2d 662, 669 (1994); State v. Langford, 267 Mont. 95, 105, 882 P.2d 490, 496 (1994). There was no unlawful prejudice in this case.

CONCLUSION

26 The decision of the District Court affirming Meyer's conviction for Aggravated DUI is affirmed.

FOOTNOTES

. Sections 61-8-401, -406 or -411, MCA.

MIKE McGRATH

We Concur: MICHAEL E WHEAT BETH BAKER JAMES JEREMIAH SHEA JIM RICE
Ahmedabad: Yoga guru Ramdev on Saturday said he has plans to launch 10,000 Patanjali Wellness and Health Centres globally to popularise yoga. The Gujarat government is organising, with Ramdevs support, a mega event at GMDC ground here on Yoga Day (21 June) with the aim of setting a new world record of highest number of people performing yoga at one place.

We will make yoga popular in the entire world. We will open 10,000 Patanjali Wellness and Health Centres in the world, starting with 1,000 centres in the country in a short time, Ramdev told reporters. About 1.25 lakh people are expected to participate in the event at GMDC ground on 21 June, Ramdev said.

The existing record was set in Delhi on 21 June, 2015 when 35,985 people performed yoga in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Ramdev said Modi himself had asked him to break this record
German luxury car maker BMW is investing another Rs 130 crore in India to enhance operations, taking its total investment in the country to Rs 1,250 crore.

The company will launch the new version of its locally manufactured 5 Series later this month and 6 Series Gran Turismo (GT) model next year to strengthen its product portfolio in India.

"Since 2007, we have been consistently investing in India. This year, we are going to increase our investment further to up to Rs 1,250 crore on a cumulative basis," BMW India President Vikram Pawah told PTI.

BMW has invested Rs 1,120 crore in the Indian operations so far.

The new investment will go into BMW group operations, including Motarrad (two-wheeler business) as well as the financial services arm, he added.

With the fresh investments, the total investments on BMW group operations in India will go up to Rs 520 crore and on BMW Financial Services to Rs 730 crore.

The company is looking to expand its dealer network in the country. It currently has 18 partners and is present in 30 cities.

"Besides, we have 63 touch points. Out of these, we have 41 sales outlets. So we want to take these 41 outlets to 50 by 2018," Pawah said.

In other emerging towns, in addition to 30 major cities, the company utilises its 'Mobile Studios' to expand the market further.

This year, the weather proof BMW mobile studio will cover 50 towns, Pawah said.

On new product launches, he said: "As part of our power to lead strategy, product offensive starts. In next two weeks, we will be launching the new 5 Series."

The model has played a big role in the success of BMW in India. Since 2007, the company has sold around 66,000 vehicles in India with 5 Series having contributed close to 30 per cent of the total sales.

"Next year, we will be introducing another model in between 5 and 7 Series, called the 6 GT and that would again define a new segment and create new market for us," Pawah said.

On local manufacturing, Pawah said, "We are locally producing eight of our total 16 models that are available. So as we introduce new models, also the new 5 Series, will be produced in the Chennai plant."

The 6 GT would also be manufactured locally, he added.

"So all our main volume drivers as we call them will also be produced locally. Niche models will continue to come in CBU form. As the volumes increase we will continue to evaluate as what can manufactured locally," Pawah said.

The company's Chennai plant has an installed capacity of 14,000 units on a single shift basis. It started operations in March 2007 and currently produces BMW's 1 Series, 3 Series, 3 Series Gran Turismo, 5 Series, 7 Series along with SUVs X1, X3 and X5.

When asked about competition with its German rivals Mercedes and Audi to be the number one player in the luxury car market in India, he said BMW's focus is to remain the fastest growing premium car brand in India.

In the January-May period this year, BMW has sold 3,533 units in India at a growth of eight percent.

Pawah further said the company would be focusing on its power to lead strategy to grow the entire premium car market.

"The idea is to grow the segment. Currently in India, premium car segment remains less than two percent of the total passenger vehicle market (3 million last fiscal) as compared to five to 10 percent in various countries," Pawah said.

The efforts should be to at least make it five percent and and eventually 10 percent of the PV market, he added.

The premium vehicle segment is estimated to be around 35,000 units per annum currently.

Green cars

Disappointed over plug-in hybrids being ignored for incentives in the upcoming GST, German luxury car maker BMW says it will be difficult to popularise green vehicles in India in the absence of government support.

Although the company welcomed the government's idea of going for all-electric vehicles by 2030, BMW said lack of infrastructure and consumer's concerns over getting stranded with pure electric vehicles when charge runs out will be major challenges to overcome.

Under the GST rates, tax incidence on hybrid vehicles will go up to 43 percent from the current level of effective tax rate of 30.3 percent.

"When the GST rates were announced, we were disappointed that the plug-in hybrids have been totally ignored," BMW India President Vikram Pawah said.

In a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, apart from a conventional petrol or diesel engine, there is a large battery that is recharged from an outlet by plugging in thus enabling it to drive extended distances using just electricity.

On the other hand, in normal hybrid vehicle, battery is charged from energy generated from running conventional engine and the range offered on electric drive mode is shorter.

"We would have liked plug-in hybrids to be included as part of the electric vehicles," he added.

Pawah argued that lowering tax incidence on plug-in hybrids can lead to much faster adoption of electric mobility in the country as it would help in addressing range anxiety concerns that customers have.

"If we want to achieve results earlier, then the approach should be plug-in hybrids leading to pure electrical vehicles. That will make transition much easier but with current policies it does not allow us to do that," he added.

He asked the government to look "at plug-in hybrid as equal to electric vehicles for the transition phase" to accelerate movement towards green mobility.

BMW already sells both pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles across the world.

While welcoming the government's plan to move towards completely electric mobility by 2030, Pawah, however, cited two major challenges towards achieving the goal.

"One, infrastructure needs to be set up to go purely electric and that will take time. It cannot happen immediately," he said.

The second challenge is the concern among consumers of getting stranded in the middle of the road when the battery charge runs out, he added.

"So the transition to electric mobility from a customer viewpoint would be a bigger hurdle," Pawah said.

The government is working on a scheme to provide electric cars on zero down payment for which people can pay out of their savings on expensive fossil fuels, for becoming 100 per cent electric vehicle nation by 2030.

When asked about the impact of higher tax on hybrids on the company's plans for introduction of green vehicles, Pawah said, "Obviously we will have to wait till infrastructure is set up before we bring in the electric vehicles."

Auto industry has already said that the increased tax incidence on hybrids is against the government's long-term goal of promoting green vehicles in the country.
India's cement sector is likely to reverse the sluggish growth trend seen over last six years, as the demand is expected to outpace supply in the next three fiscal years, rating agency Crisil said in a report on Monday.

Such a bullish scenario will likely emerge in the cement sector supported by government's focus on affordable housing, spending boost on roads, railways and urban development, the agency said.

Incremental demand for cement is seen doubling to 48 million tonne (MT) over past three fiscals, but incremental supply is seen moderating by a fifth to 31 MT from 39 MT, the report said.

In the last fiscal, cement industry faced headwinds following the demonetisation announcement, resulting in a 1.2 percent decline in the economic growth.

We foresee a sharp recovery in demand this fiscal after demonetisation dealt a major blow leading to a 1.2 percent de-growth last fiscal. The industry should be able to rack up 5-6 percent compound annual growth rate between this fiscal and 2020, or nearly twice as fast as between fiscals 2015 and 2017," said Sachin Gupta, Senior Director at Crisil Ratings.

In its report, Crisil said synergies from the flurry of acquisitions last fiscal and steady realisations too will help improve cash accruals in the sector despite an increase in power and fuel costs.

Last fiscal was a landmark year that saw the sector signing Rs 32,000 crore of acquisitions. Thats the biggest consolidation the sector has seen in a year, and was financed through debt of Rs 25,000 crore, it noted.

However, Crisil warned that any curb in government spending could result in a slower-than-expected demand from the infrastructure sector, thereby, hitting the cement sector. The implementation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, could also have a short-term impact on volume growth, the agency said.

In April, another rating firm, CARE Ratings, said in a report that cement consumption would witness a growth of 3-4.5 percent in the current year on the back of government's thrust on infrastructure and road sector spending.
New Delhi: The GST Council on Sunday relaxed return filing rules for businesses for the first two months of the rollout of the new indirect tax regime even as it stuck to the 1 July launch date.

The industry has been pushing for deferment of the tax implementation.

The GST, the biggest tax reform in India's 70-year history, will require firms to file three online returns each month. Some business lobby groups have urged a delay to the rollout to allow more time to get ready.

As per the revised return filing timeline decided by the Council, for July, the sale returns will have to be filed by 5 September instead of 10 August. Companies will have to file sale invoice for August with the GST Network by 20 September instead of 10 September earlier.

"To obviate any lack of preparedness, a slight relaxation of time for two months -- July-August -- has been given. From September, strict adherence to time will go on," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters.

In relief for AC hotels, the Council decided to raise the threshold for the 28 per cent tax to RS 7,500 from Rs 5,000 at present. This would mean that an 18 per cent GST will be levied on bills of Rs 2,500-7,500

The Council decided to tax lotteries in two segments -- with state-run ones attracting 12 percent GST and the state-authorised 28 percent.

Additionally, it has cleared six rules, including anti- profiteering. "I hope we are not compelled to use it (anti- profiteering)," Jaitley added.

"A number of companies and trade have been raising the issue of lack of preparedness. We don't have the luxury of time to defer GST implementation," Jaitley made it clear.

The official launch of the goods and services tax (GST) is slated for mid-night of 30 June and 1 July.

Once fully up and running, the GST would require companies to file a complete return of their sales invoices by the 10th of the following month, with a second of their purchase invoices by the 15th. A third return would calculate their tax bill.

"Relaxation for filing transaction-wise returns in July, August ... will provide relief to the industry," said Harishanker Subramaniam, head of indirect tax at EY India.

The GST marks a technological leap forward for India - it will be driven by an IT bac end that can process up to 5 billion invoices a month. It also poses a huge challenge for larger companies to remodel their business process, while many small-time traders lack the technological know-how to cope.

The GST Council will meet again on June 30, the eve of the launch, Jaitley said.

(With additional inputs from Reuters)
New Delhi: The historic Central Hall of Parliament will host a midnight function on 30 June to launch the sweeping tax reform of GST, reminiscent of India's tryst with destiny on the midnight of 15 August, 1947.

The government will use the circular-shaped Central Hall, perhaps for the first time, to launch a new taxation system that is set to dramatically re-shape the over US $2 trillion economy.

The launch event will in all probability start at 11 pm on 30 June and extend into midnight, coinciding with the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, official sources said.

A gong will be sounded at midnight to signify that GST has arrived.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the key speaker at the function where President Pranab Mukherjee is also being invited.

The GST Bill was originally piloted by Mukherjee when he was the Finance Minister in the previous UPA regime.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would also occupy the high table along with another former prime minister H D Deve Gowda in the Central Hall during the event.

Chief Ministers of all states will be invited for the event as GST represented an unprecedented exercise in fiscal federalism, sources said, adding GST Council members will be the guests.

The GST Council, that brings together the central and state governments, has met 17 times to thrash out how the tax will work.

Originally, the launch of GST, which has been in works for over a decade, was to be done from Vigyan Bhawan -- the largest convention centre in the national capital that has hosted majority of the meetings of the GST Council.

But the historic Central Hall was thought to be a better choice considering the importance of the new tax code that unifies more than a dozen separate levies to create a single market with a population greater than the US, Europe, Brazil, Mexico and Japan put together.

GST will simplify a web of taxes, regulations and border levies by subsuming an array of central and state levies including excise duty, service tax and VAT.

It will gradually re-shape India's business landscape, making the world's fastest-growing major economy an easier place to do business.

GST has been dubbed as the most significant economic reform since BJP government came to power in 2014 and is expected to add as much as 2 percentage points to the GDP growth rate besides raising government revenues by widening the tax net.

A four-rate structure that exempts or imposes a low rate of tax of 5 percent on essential items and top rate of 28 percent on cars and consumer durables has been finalised. The other slabs of tax are 12 and 18 percent.
New Delhi: Traders and dealers who have not completed their registration process can continue to do their business under the GST regime from 1 July using the provisional ID, a top government official said.

The 15-digit provisional ID would work as the Goods and Services Taxpayer Identification Number (GSTIN) for the first initial few months, Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia said.

In an interview to PTI, Adhia sought to assuage industry concerns about the GST registration process saying that businesses need not panic and need not rush for registration as the dealers and traders who have secured a provisional ID can conduct business in the new indirect regime.

"You can continue to do your business using the provisional ID and quote the GSTIN in all businesses. They will not have to wait for final GSTIN to come. Even if they have not given their details fully, from 1 July they can continue their business. People should not panic," he said.

Of the 80.91 lakh excise, service tax and VAT assessees, 65.6 lakh, or 81 percent, have already migrated to the GSTN portal.

However, of this 65.6 lakh, as many as 13 lakh business have not completed the second stage of the registration process which entails the verification process.

When a business registers under GST, it is given a provisional GSTIN. After that, in the second stage, the business has to log in to the GSTN portal and give details of its business, like the main place of business, additional place of business, directors and bank account details.

Adhia said the government has done away with the requirement of verification of registration through digital signature, or by generating electronic verification code (EVC).

"They don't have to give digital signature or e-sign it now. They can just save it and automatically an e-mail will be sent to them saying all their details are received and it is complete. Once they have saved the details, they will have no other worry. Even if they don't receive the e-mail immediately, they don't need to panic. They can still continue to do their business from 1 July," Adhia said.

However, the details should be given to the GSTN portal "as early as possible".

Adhia said that the registration of new businesses will start from 25 June and they will have 30 days time for registration. The window for taxpayers wanting to migrate on GSTN portal will open on the same day.

"They should not rush on the same day on 25 June. We would appeal to all to keep their papers ready and do it in time," he said.

The biggest tax reform since independence, GST will be rolled out on the midnight of 30 June and make India a single market for seamless movement of goods and services. The GST subsumes 16 different levies, including excise, service tax and VAT.
The GST Council on Sunday unanimously agreed on 1 July rollout of the Goods and Services Tax despite some pending issues, with Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley saying that India does not have the "luxury of time" to defer implemention of the new indirect tax regime.

"The GST Council categorically agreed on the implementation of GST from July 1," Jaitley told reporters after the penultimate meeting of the Council before the single pan-India GST is officially rolled out on the midnight of June 30, replacing the existing myriad central and state levies on both goods and services.

Here is how experts reacted to the news:

MS Mani, Senior Director, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP

The announcement of an extended time line for filing the returns for July and August is a welcome development, however, this should not make businesses complacent as the additional time available is very limited. While the extension of time for filling returns is welcome, several issues relating to real life problems raised by business to the sectoral committees are yet to be decided upon and may not now see the light of the day before GST rollout.

Ansh Bhargava, Senior Consultant, Taxmann.com

Discussion on the e-way bill has been a contentious issue for states, as some of them already have a robust mechanism in place and shifting back to hand bills would cause them revenue loss. Deferring the decision to implement the e-way bill system by the GST Council is a welcome step, as it would help the GST Network to understand the nuances involved and come up with a solution that facilitates various industries. It is a welcome decision by the GST Council on the filing of GSTR-1 by 5 September, as it would allow taxpayers to get accustomed and adapt to the new system of taxation. More than 80 percent of the taxpayers have already migrated or provisionally registered themselves with the GSTN. The GST Council has announced that the registration process will open again on 25 June 2017 that will provide relief to the taxpayers that have not registered themselves.

Pratik Jain, Partner and Leader Indirect Tax, PwC

The 17th GST council meeting has given rest of any hope for deferment of GST beyond 1 July. Relaxation of time for filing initial invoice wise returns is a welcome move which, to some extent, allays fears of readiness both from GSTN and industry's point of view. Similarly an additional time of around one month for obtaining new GST registration would provide relief to many businesses who are coming under the GST net, like those selling on E commerce platform. While it's good to see that E way related provisions would be further discussed by the council before they are implemented, it remains to be seen as to whether the check posts at many state borders would continue to operate in the interim.

It has been reiterated that anti profiteering provisions are meant to be used as a deterrent and would be invoked only against specific complaints, which is also encouraging to see. Hospitality industry gets a breather with five star restaurants getting parity with other AC restaurants at 18 percent GST and limit of Rs 5,000 moving up to Rs 7,500 for 28 percent rate. GST paid on import of Ships would also be allowed as a credit to the shipping industry now, which would bring their cost down. Clarity is still awaited on few issues such as treatment of transactions between J&K and other states and supplies made from excise free zones. With 12 days to go, task if now cut out for industry as well as the a government.

Archit Gupta, Founder & CEO ClearTax

The biggest issues on the agenda for today's Council meeting were the finalisation of e-way bills and possible delay in GST implementation. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, has made it amply clear that there will be no delay in implementing GST and the date of 1 July stands set in stone. Provisions related to e-way bills are yet to be finalised and will be taken up in next meeting of GST council on 30 June. However, the Council's decision to allow flexibility in return filing has come as a welcome boon for many.1 with GST-compliant software like the one built by ClearTax. We have a plug-and-play software system that can be easily integrated into existing ERPs and accounting platforms.

Using the 2-month transition period wisely will help businesses avoid unnecessary delays once all rules and regulations are fully enforced in September. By not rolling back on their promise to implement the new tax regime next month, the government has proven once again that it means business. We welcome the GST Council's move to relax return filing provisions for the transition period and appreciate their understanding in this matter.

Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT)

The announcement of Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to give relaxation in filing return under GST for the month of July and August will give more time to traders to prepare themselves for the comply with GST law. However, allowing continuation of existing system of different States for checking inter-state transactions may bring distortions in first phase of GST itself and as such it would have been much better if provision of e way bill and HSN code is suspended for at least six months. However, allowing continuation of existing system of different States for checking inter-state transactions may bring distortions in first phase of GST itself and as such it would have been much better if provision of e way bill and HSN code is suspended for at least six months.

Abhishek Jain, Tax Partner, EY India

The deferment of the detailed GST returns for the month of July and August would bring some relief to the industry. It will give the industry the much needed time to align their IT systems and integrate with the GSTN. Also the said move almost puts to rest any speculation of GST introduction getting delayed to September 2017. The anti-profiteering rules have been finalised by the GST Council. The industry would keenly await to see the fine print of the said rules and implement them at the earliest as introduction of GST from July 1 is sealed now. The E-way Bill has still not been finalised. The indication from the Finance Minister that states may continue with their own current system on e-way bills brings ambiguity around the same and may dilute the one nation one tax moto of GST,

Harishanker Subramaniam, National Leader  Indirect Tax Services , EY India

1 July implementation confirmation is along expected lines, relaxation for filing transaction wise details returns in July, August till September with interim aggregate return will provide relief to the industry and is very welcome. Key rules like anti-profiteering have been approved with a body set up in July, its critical to understand these rules. Statement that anti-profiteering will be more a deterrent needs to be followed in practice. Consensus on E way bill is still underway and statement that till then current system will continue makes one wonder whether the State check posts will continue.

(With inputs from IANS)
New Delhi: India is planning to organise a meet of startups of the South Asian region for exchange of new ideas and promoting interaction among them.

Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also sought views of Indian startups to hold this programme.

"I will be working towards having a SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) country meet for startups. There are so many complementarities among us in the South Asian region," she said while launching a startup India hub portal here.

She said the event can act as a platform for exchanging which can be mutually beneficial and can be worked out.

She asked startups to give ideas about the people who can be invited for the meet.

If the ministry would get feedback and suggestions in the next couple of months, by December the meet can happen in which SAARC country startups can come to India and share ideas.

SAARC members are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Further, to promote the startup ecosystem in the country, Sitharaman would write to all the Member of Parliaments to help budding entrepreneurs.

Citing an example, the minister said she used her Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) fund to create a co-working space for startups in Mangalore.

"I will write to all the MPs...(particularly) in districts where people are approaching their MPs saying can we have some space and where there is a demand of startups," he added.

The ministry is also planning to work in certain districts identify schools and help them qualify to get tinkering labs under the Atal Innovation Mission.

She added that the ministry is working on modalities to facilitate exchange of ideas between startups of India and

Germany.
He is a born frequent flier  a baby boy, born on Sunday 35,000 feet above sea level on a Jet Airways plane from Saudi Arabia to India. The infant has received a free lifetime pass from the airline as his first birthday gift.

Jet Airways flight 9W 569 took off from Dammam for Kochi at 2.55 am on Sunday when an expectant mother travelling onboard went into premature labour. The crew declared a medical emergency and diverted the flight to Mumbai.

While the Boeing 737 with 162 passengers on board was still over the Arabian Sea, the cabin crew requested on the public announcement system for a doctor to come forward. But since there was no one, a female nurse travelling to Kerala, named Wilson, volunteered to help deliver the child along with the airline staff.

After the plane landed in Mumbai, both the mother and the baby were rushed to a hospital and were said to be doing well, according to the airline.

"Being the first baby to be born in-flight for the airline, Jet Airways is pleased to offer the newly-born a free lifetime pass for all his travel on Jet Airways," the airline said in a statement.

The plane later resumed its onward journey to Kochi and reached its destination at 12.45 pm after a delay of 90 minutes.
Ever since it was revealed that Shah Rukh Khan will be doing a small cameo in Kabir Khan's Salman Khan-starrer Tubelight, millions of fans, of both the actors, are eagerly waiting to see them together on screen. King Khan will be playing the role of a wizard named Goga Pasha, according to IMDB.

Now there are speculations that Shah Rukh Khan is all set to do a cameo role in Anurag Basu's Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif-starrer Jagga Jasoos.

Apparently, earlier this year, Anurag Basu had approached Shah Rukh Khan to do this cameo role, as reported by Bollywood Hungama.

According to Deccan Chronicle's report, the makers of the film had to literally coax Khan to be a part of the film, to which he eventually agreed. He is reportedly going to play a small yet crucial role that will decide the fate of the lead pair in the film.

The report furthers that in 2016, Khan was spotted on the sets of Jagga Jasoos, which led to a lot of rumours about the actor doing a special appearance in the film.

The report by Bollywood Hungama adds that King Khan has indeed already shot for the role. The shooting took place in a Mumbai studio along with Ranbir and Katrina, a few weeks back.

According to an Indiatimes reports, Jagga Jasoos is about a guy named Jagga (Ranbir) who has been inquisitive about everything since his childhood. One day, his father is murdered and that fills him with anger and makes him all the more curious about who the murderer was.

The entire process takes a toll on him and he becomes a loner living a complete isolated life. Katrina plays his love interest who accompanies him to Kolkata and Morocco to help Jagga unravel the truth about his father's death.

The film is slated to release on 14 July this year.
He is known as Sallu Bhai, Bhaijaan, Salman and sometimes Dabangg Khan as well. His movies bring tornadoes and typhoons at the box-office with an envious track record of all-time-blockbusters lined up one after the other. He dances, romances heroines half his age, rips off his shirt revealing abs at the age of 51, does kick-ass action, and sets trends.

While he is often regarded as a movie star who doesn't act, there have been times in the past, where he has tried to move beyond the ordinary.

Here are five of his on-screen characters  let's have a look:

Tere Naam (2003)

This Satish Kaushik film came at a time when Salman had done films like Har Dil Jo Pyaar Karega and Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, where he was cast in somewhat similar roles. His contemporaries  Shah Rukh Khan with Devdas and Aamir still riding high with Lagaan and Dil Chahta Hai  were zooming past, but Salman had nothing spectacular in his kitty, until Tere Naam released.

In the film, he played the role of Radhe Mohan, a rude scoundrel of the locality who falls in love with a girl (Bhoomika Chawla) who is timid. One fine day, he ends up in a physical brawl with other goons leaving him badly injured and mentally unstable. He spends most of his time in an asylum and he returns to his self only to realise that his true love is no more. Salman Khan's overall demeanor in the film was much talked about.

Phir Milenge (2004)

Salman featured in this Revathi directorial as Shilpa Shetty's college love who she meets after a long time at a reunion. They eventually end up sharing some intimate moments. Later Shetty finds that she has contracted HIV and looses her job. She fights a case in the court with the aid of a lawyer (played by Abhishek Bachchan) and in the course of the case Salman dies of AIDS. While Shetty was lauded for her performance, Khan was equally praised to be a part of this socially relevant film. His subtle portrayal of Shetty's lover is one to watch out for.

Kyon Ki! (2005)

After Tere Naam, this was Salman's second stint as a patient in a sanatorium. This Priyadarshan-directed film, although criticised for its pace and loose character sketching, earned good reviews for Salman. He plays the role of a man who is admitted to an asylum after he goes into shock at the death of his girlfriend. He falls in love with one of the doctors in the sanatorium (Kareena Kapoor) who helps him get back to his normal self.

Dabangg (2010)

It will not be an exaggeration to say that Dabangg is the turning point of Salman's career, one that also brought in the trend of the 100-crore-club in the industry. Director Abhinav Kashyap's film had Khan play the role of a police officer who has a swag of his own, a style statement and an uncanny disposition of being a sort-of-corrupt-yet-righteous policeman. His stardom reached insurmountable heights post the film's release.

Sultan (2016)

In Sultan, the actor plays his age and dons the role of a guy who is smitten by a more-successful female wrestler (Anushka Sharma) and does whatever it takes to win her love  even learning wrestling and eventually becoming a champion. His layered act of a lover, husband, aspiring sportsman is something we haven't seen the actor pulling off in a long time.
In the first mini trailer of Jab Harry Met Sejal, Shah Rukh Khan's character confesses that he is a tharki but Anushka Sharma's Sejal does not believe him. Now, the tables seemed to have turned, with Sejal telling Harry that if they end up having sex, he is absolved of all legal charges  all in a caricaturised Gujarati accent.

She hands him an indemnity bond, and he is visibly pleased. Sejal later says with much pride that she was able to create the bond because she has a degree in law. We see shots of the on-screen couple standing quite close together, so it is obvious that the terms of the bond will be met!

Shah Rukh Khan plays a tour guide in the film, but not much else is known about his character. This new trailer has given us some insight into Sejal, who is both assertive and unafraid of saying that she has sex  a refreshing trait for a female character in Bollywood.

The film chronicles the entertaining affair between a Punjabi tour guide and a Gujarati girl. The tagline of the movie is "What you seek is seeking you", which was also splashed across the posters that the actors shared on their social media accounts. It was shot in Prague, Amsterdam, Lisbon and Budapest, and marks the second time that Khan and Sharma will be seen together on the big screen after Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

The name of the film was changed numerous times, and the one that was finally chosen is reminiscent of Harry Met Sally and director Imtiaz Ali's own Jab We Met.

Jab Harry Met Sejal releases on 4 August after its date was changed, to avoid a clash with Akshay Kumar-starer Toilet: Ek Prem Katha.

Watch the mini trailer here:


Los Angeles: Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio has returned Marlon Brando's best actor Oscar statuette to the US government as part of an investigation into the money laundering by a state-owned Malaysian investment fund.

DiCaprio received Brando's Oscar and other artefacts as his 38th birthday gift in 2012 from business associates at Red Granite Pictures, which also funded his film The Wolf of Wall Street.

The 42-year-old actor has voluntarily handed over the Oscar statuette and other expensive gifts amid investigation into a USD 3.5-billion money-laundering scheme.

Authorities from the US Department of Justice suspect that Red Granite co-founder Riza Aziz may have helped his stepfather, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, embezzle USD 4.5 billion from a political development scheme, reported Los Angeles Times.

The misappropriated funds were used to form the production company that funded the Martin Scorsese-directed movie, about a corrupt stockbroker.

The laundered money was used to fund a lavish lifestyle, including purchases of artwork and jewellery, the acquisition of luxury real estate and luxury yachts, the payment of gambling expenses, and the hiring of musicians and celebrities to attend parties.

The multi-million-dollar artworks in question include a Picasso painting, a photograph by Diane Arbus and a Jean- Michel Basquiat collage, which were supposedly gifted to DiCaprio by Jho Low, Red Granite's purported financier.

The actor had accepted the art with the intention of auctioning off the pieces to raise money for his charitable foundation, according to his spokesperson said.

DiCaprio has already given the art and the Oscar to US authorities, the spokesperson added.

And though there are no plans at this time for DiCaprio to forfeit the money he received for his work on The Wolf of Wall Street, his spokesperson noted that the actor intends to offer the return of any "gifts or donations" under speculation with "the aid and instruction of the government".
The first song from the Tamil action thriller Vivegam is out. The film stars Tamil superstar Ajith and is one of the highly anticipated films of 2017.

The new track, titled 'Surviva' was released by the music director of the film, Anirudh Ravichander, today on twitter. Though the song is not available on YouTube yet, it can be streamed on Saavn. The 30-second teaser of the song which released last week and people have really high expectations from the song as well as the film.

Surviva is said to be the film's opening number, and the lyrics and the rap portion have been helmed by Yogi B. Since the lyrics are about a man, who takes on the struggles head-on and overcomes his challenges, it is also said to be a tribute to Ajith, who has struggled to gain fame as a filmstar.

Vivegam is a thriller where Ajith plays an Interpol agent in the film, and it has been predominantly shot across exotic locations in Europe. Kajal Aggarwal plays his wife while Vivek Oberoi will be seen as his friend. Akshara Haasan plays an important character in the film, which will hit the screens in August. This film marks director Siva's third consecutive venture with Ajith, the film marks his third consecutive outing with Ajith. They have previously worked on Vedalam in 2015 and previously on Veeram in 2014.

The film is produced by Satyajothi Films and is slated to release in August this year. The teaser of the film released earlier this week:
Yangon (Myanmar): Search teams retrieved the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from a Myanmarese army plane that crashed into the Andaman Sea in early June with 122 soldiers, family members and crew on board, the Myanmar military said on Sunday.

The Chinese-made Y-8-200F transport plane disappeared on 7 June, while flying at 18,000 feet (5,485 metres) on a weekly flight from several southern coastal towns to Myanmar's largest city, Yangon.

The cause of the crash has yet to be determined. Since then, the military has recovered 92 bodies during its search operations and has found the personal belongings of some passengers and crew, as well as several pieces of debris.

The military said on its official Facebook page on Sunday that cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder  both crucial to explaining what went wrong and known as the "black box"  were found in the sea off Myanmar's southern coast.

The search for the remaining bodies and the fuselage will continue amid Myanmar's monsoon season, it added.

Some bodies pulled from the sea have been cremated as relatives and friends mourn victims in the coastal town of Dawei.

State-owned China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation, the manufacturer of the plane, has said it would assist Myanmar authorities fully in the investigation into the crash.

There have been several recent aircraft accidents in Myanmar, involving both civilian and military planes.

A military helicopter crashed in June 2016, killing three military personnel. Five were killed in February 2016 when an air force aircraft crashed in the capital Naypyitaw, media reports said.
By Sarah N. Lynch and Brendan Pierson

| WASHINGTON

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump's personal lawyer said on Sunday that Trump is not under investigation in the probe into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential race, a statement that appeared to contradict a comment Trump himself made on Twitter last week.Jay Sekulow, a lawyer who is part of a team hired by Trump to deal with allegations of collusion by his campaign with Moscow, made the rounds on Sunday talk shows to cast doubt on media reports citing unnamed sources - and to add nuance to a straightforward claim Trump made on Friday that he was under investigation."The fact of the matter is the president has not been and is not under investigation," Sekulow said on CBS' "Face the Nation" - in one of four interviews he gave on Sunday - adding that the president has not received any notification that he is being investigated.On Friday, Trump had tweeted: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt."Trump, who has denied any collusion between his campaign and Russia, has frequently lashed out about the allegations, which have overshadowed his administration's efforts to overhaul the healthcare system, cut taxes and boost jobs.Robert Mueller, the special counsel named by the Justice Department to probe the Russia matter, is investigating whether anyone associated with Trump or his campaign had any illegal dealings with Russian officials or others with ties to the Kremlin. Russian officials have denied meddling in the U.S. election.A U.S. official who is familiar with the rough outlines of the probe and who spoke on condition of anonymity told Reuters on Thursday that Mueller was also examining whether Trump or others tried to interfere with the investigation."NO ONE HAS NOTIFIED US"

Sekulow said that Trump, in his tweet, was reacting to a story in the Washington Post that was the first to report Mueller was examining whether Trump had tried to obstruct the probe by firing FBI director James Comey in May.On "Fox News Sunday," Sekulow said that he was certain the president was not under investigation because he had received no notification or other indication that he was.Pressed on the issue by host Chris Wallace, Sekulow acknowledged that he could not be certain. "I cannot read the mind of the special prosecutor," Sekulow said."No one has notified us that he is" under investigation, Sekulow said.

Peter Carr, a spokesman for the Mueller team, declined to comment.Barak Cohen, a former Justice Department lawyer and now a defense attorney specializing in white-collar crime and investigations, said there was no requirement that the special counsel notify Trump he was under investigation, so the lack of such notice meant nothing.He said, however, that Sekulows comments could mean the White House was taking the position that no investigation exists until Muellers team officially confirms it, disregarding any media reports based on anonymous sourcing.Cohen said the first official communication that a target is under investigation typically comes when prosecutors begin requesting documents and other evidence. At that time, defense lawyers often will ask for their clients status.Prosecutors will often answer then to avoid misleading the target. But they may also not answer if they are trying to build a case and develop further evidence."No answer is probably the most troubling answer in criminal defense, said Cohen.

Separately, a former White House lawyer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said there was nothing stopping Trump or his lawyers from asking Mueller whether Trump was under investigation.Mueller would be allowed, though not required, to answer that question, unless it involved material before a grand jury, the former White House lawyer said.The lawyer also said it was unlikely that any obstruction probe would not examine Trump."Its inconceivable hes not under investigation in the obstruction investigation, the lawyer said. Its all about him."COUNTERATTACK

Trump's statements on Twitter are a sign of his frustration with the Russia allegations, said former Republican Speaker Newt Gingrich, on ABC's "This Week."

"Trump has a compulsion to counterattack and is very pugnacious. I dont think it serves him well. I dont think that tweet helped him," Gingrich said.Gingrich said he had lost confidence in Mueller because he is a friend of Comey, and said too many members of Mueller's investigative team have ties to Democrats.Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House intelligence committee, defended Mueller and his team, noting that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have praised his appointment.Schiff said Trump, his legal team and his supporters were trying to discredit the special counsel and his investigation."They want to lay the foundation to discredit whatever Bob Mueller comes up with. They are essentially engaging in a scorched earth litigation strategy that is beginning with trying to discredit the prosecutor," Schiff said on ABC.Multiple committees in the Senate and House of Representatives are investigating various aspects of Russian election meddling.The Senate intelligence committee is in the early stages of its probe and is looking at whether anyone involved in the campaign shared information with the Russians, said Senator Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with Democrats."I'd say we're 20 percent into it, just to throw a number at it," King said on NBC's "Meet the Press."Lawmakers from both parties are worried that Russian meddling in U.S. elections could continue, King said."The real problem here is the Russians aren't going away. This isn't a one-off deal," he said. (Additional reporting by Howard Schneider, Anthony Lin, Brenan Pierson and Roberta Rampton; Writing by Roberta Rampton; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Phil Berlowitz)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Jaipur: The Congress on Sunday attacked Rajasthan's ruling BJP over the killing of a CPI-ML worker, allegedly lynched by civic officials when he tried to stop them from taking photographs of women defecating in the open, after chief minister Vasundhara Raje termed his "demise" unfortunate.

Her predecessor Ashok Gehlot of the Congress, in a tweet, said, "The CM of Rajasthan seems to have already reached a conclusion even before an inquiry that Zafar Khan was not murdered."

The CM of #Rajasthan seems to have already reached a conclusion even before an inquiry that #ZafarKhan was not murdered. https://t.co/JjjILy4NPW  Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) June 18, 2017

His post came in response to Vasundhara Raje's tweet, "The demise of Zafar Khan ji in Pratapgarh is extremely unfortunate. Investigation is on - justice shall prevail."

In a series of tweets, Gehlot asked: "What is the need for investigation then? Can the victim's family expect justice in such a scenario?"

What is the need for investigation then? Can the victim's family expect justice in such a scenario? #ZafarKhan #Pratapgarh #Rajasthan  Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) June 18, 2017

"The BJP should have also invented a theory, how a healthy man suddenly died, to prove he was not murdered.

The BJP should have also invented a theory, how a healthy man suddenly died, to prove he was not murdered

#ZafarKhan #Pratapgarh #Rajasthan  Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) June 18, 2017

"What a sorry state of affairs, when the CM stoops down to divert the issue."

The incident took place in the state's Pratapgarh on Friday when Zafar Khan saw some civic authority officials photographing women defecating in the open and objected to their taking pictures.

An altercation broke out between the team and Khan, who was allegedly beaten up badly by them and taken to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Khan's brother has lodged a case of murder.
Beijing: India on Monday pitched for a greater engagement with BRICS nations which have steadily expanded its agenda from financial matters to security and counter terrorism issues facing the international community.

Addressing the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Beijing, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh said BRICS countries have reached significant understanding on security and counter terrorism issues.

"Besides cooperating on financial issues, the BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion," he said.

"BRICS joint working group mechanism has concluded in May 2017," Singh said, adding the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries are due to meet next month ahead of this year's summit of the bloc to be held in China's Xiamen city in September.

"In Delhi meeting last year they (NSAs) had reached significant understanding on security and counter terrorism matters," Singh, who represented External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at the meeting, said.

Swaraj could not attend the meeting due to health issues.

Singh, who held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday, said India attached great importance to BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and "(we) continue to work closely with all our partners with mutual trust, respect and transparency to further enhance our bonds".

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid special emphasis on people-to-people exchanges in the BRICS process," he said.

"I reiterate India attaches its utmost importance to its engagement with BRICS. Our prime minister had repeatedly underscored the importance of BRICS in the international arena and stressed the importance of intra BRICS cooperation," Singh said.

Besides Wang and Singh, Sergey Lavrov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa and Alosio Nunes Ferreira of Brazil attended the BRICS foreign ministers meeting which is expected to finalise the agenda for the Xiamen summit.

In his meeting with Singh on Sunday, Wang said China and India are both major countries with great influence and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Talking to other BRICS foreign minsters, he called for closer cooperation among the BRICS countries.

In the bilateral meeting with South African foreign minister Maite, Wang said BRICS countries, faced with increasing uncertainties in the international situation, should unite more closely and play a leading role in building a community of shared future for the mankind.

China stands ready to step up coordination with South Africa to strengthen the forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as well as the BRICS mechanism, continuously expand the strategic cooperation between the two countries, and safeguard the common interests of the two nations and all other developing countries.

During his meeting with Lavrov, Wang said China is willing to deepen coordination with Russia to enhance strategic trust, boost economic and financial cooperation, increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges and strengthen the cooperation mechanism among BRICS countries.
Darjeeling: The Tibetan community of Darjeeling organised a candle light march in Darjeeling demanding immediate restoration of peace in the hills.

Men, women and children of Tibetan community carried candles and posters demanding peace in the hills.

The candle light march was organised at Chowrasta square of the town.

Since 8 June, Darjeeling has witnessed clashes between GJM activists and police over the demand for a separate Gorkhaland state.

GJM has claimed three of their activists have been killed. Police, however, confirmed the death of only one person during the clashes.

An India Reserve Battalion assistant commandant was also seriously injured in the clash.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday called for peace in northern West Bengal  where an indefinite strike called by the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) in demand of a separate state of Gorkhaland continued for the eighth day  as she left for the Netherlands to attend a United Nations meet.

"We appeal to everybody to maintain harmony," Banerjee said before taking off for the three-day visit.

By 'everybody', the chief minister covered the many political factions that are now involved in the unrest other than the GJM which has been the only one extensively reported on by the media.

Problems for the Trinamool Congress government deepened after its ally Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) decided last week in an all-party meeting to join other parties in the Darjeeling hills and adopt a unanimous resolution for the creation of Gorkhaland.

GNLF spokesperson Niraj Zimba told News18, For us, the issue of Gorkhaland is our first priority. We have an alliance with the TMC but it is a political meeting and not an ideological alliance.

GNLF has been nvolved in this issue for decades. In the mid 1980s, the party, under Subhash Ghising, had led a violent movement for Gorkhaland, taking to the streets to voice their demands. The Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) was formed in 1988, under which limited powers were given to Ghisinghs GNLF.

Zimba told the media last week that they are coming together with their "worst enemy" because the people of the area demand the union of all parties.

It is the demand of the people and this is the right time. We will fight together for a separate state. For this goal, we have joined hands with the GJM who are our worst enemy in the Hills, Zimbo said.

In the GJM-sponsored all-party meeting last week, several other parties in the hills agreed to show up to get together and discuss the future course of action against the state governments imposition of Bangla language and the demand for statehood.

The Gorkha Rashtriya Nirman Morcha, Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists, Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh were some of those present at the meeting, The Indian Express reported.

Two other parties, All India Gorkha League (AIGL) and Jan Andolan Party (JAP), could not make to to the meeting but extended support to the cause.

PTI reported that GJM claimed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) district leadership too attended the meeting. But BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said, We are not aware of any of our leaders attending any kind of all-party meet in Darjeeling.

On Sunday, the GJM slammed the Narendra Modi government, expressing disappointment over the centre's role in the situation, PTI reported. The GJM, an ally of the BJP, also questioned why the BJP MP from Darjeeling, SS Ahluwalia, has not visited the place once since the unrest began.

The demand for the Darjeeling hills to be separated from Bengal began in the first quarter of the last century. Through the decades after, several parties formed to take the movement forward. One such party which is still formidable in the region is the Akhil Bharatiya Gorkha League (ABGL), which entered the movement right after independence in 1947. Consisting of mostly Nepali speaking party workers, ABGL has a significant following in the region.

Another all-party meeting will be held on 20 June, for which GJM chief Bimal Gurung is expected to meet ex-servicemen and discuss the way forward.

The funeral of three protesters killed in Saturday's violence will take place on Monday. On Saturday, Gorkha protesters held a silent march carrying the bodies through the streets. The march had been called by Gurung, who is spearheading the protests, but was attended by members of all parties in the region.

Security forces were on high alert and internet services remained suspended, though no incidents of violence were reported in Darjeeling hills on Monday.

Given that almost all political factions in the region have come above their differences and have gotten together to advance the cause for a separate Gorkhaland, Mamata Banerjee has more to deal with than just appeasing the frontline GJM.

With inputs from agencies
Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee on Monday appealed to people in the northern West Bengal hills to maintain peace instead of "playing with fire" amid the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM)-called indefinite shutdown.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee arrives at Kolkata airport, to leave for her Netherlands visit. pic.twitter.com/sk8jkYzVwm  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

"I would like to appeal to everyone in the mountains to kindly maintain peace. Solution can be reached through meetings and dialogues only when peace is maintained," she said before leaving for the Netherlands. "I don't differentiate between the hill people and others. We all work everywhere in the state. Burning down things is not the right thing to do. Instead of playing with fire, peace should be safeguarded," Banerjee said.

Violent protest won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation: Mamata Banerjee,West Bengal CM #DarjeelingUnrest pic.twitter.com/rBWrjdpQ3o  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Mamata will address the Public Service Day of the United Nations on 22 June at The Hague in the Netherlands. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said he has spoken to Mamata over the law and order situation in Darjeeling. Thirty-six policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

Singh said resorting to violence would never help them in finding a solution and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.

"All concerned parties and stakeholders should resolve their differences and misunderstandings through dialogue in amicable environment," Singh said. In a democracy like India resorting to violence would never help in finding a solution, he said, emphasising that "every issue can be resolved through mutual dialogue".

"I appeal to the people living in Darjeeling and nearby areas to remain calm and peaceful. Nobody should resort to violence," the home minister said in a series of tweets. Singh had on Saturday also spoken to Mamata and asked her to take all possible steps so that peace is restored in the picturesque hill station where people are protesting against "imposition" of Bengali in schools by making the language mandatory.

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), which is in power in the semi-autonomous Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, is spearheading the agitation there demanding a separate state - Gorkhaland.

Darjeeling remained on the edge on Sunday as thousands of protesters assembled at the central Chowkbazar carrying the body of a GJM activist, who was killed during clashes with police, and raised slogans demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland.

Security personnel in large numbers were deployed in the hill district of West Bengal after widespread clashes between Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) activists and the police were witnessed on Saturday.

The GJM has claimed that two of their supporters were shot dead by police in Singmari on Saturday. The police rejected the allegations of firing by its personnel, and said one person was killed during the clashes.

With inputs from agencies
New Delhi: The West Bengal government has sent a report on the ongoing violence in Darjeeling to the home ministry, which has dispatched a company of 125 women security personnel to help restore peace in the hills.

The state government's report is under examination of the ministry, official sources said on Monday.

Home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi has also spoken to the state's chief secretary, who had demanded that two companies  250 personnel  of women paramilitary personnel be sent there, they said.

However, the ministry decided to send only one company, the sources said.

Earlier, the home ministry had put on hold the dispatch of 400 additional paramilitary personnel to Darjeeling for want of a report on the situation from the state government.

Ten companies  about 1,250 personnel  are stationed in the region marred by violence during the ongoing agitation by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) for a separate state of Gorkhaland.

The sources said tripartite talks with all stakeholders concerned, including the GJM, to resolve the crisis have been deferred and a new date for the same are yet to be communicated to the home ministry.

It was reported earlier that the talks were scheduled for Monday.

Home minister Rajnath Singh had on Sunday appealed to protesters not to resort to violence and instead hold dialogue to resolve any issue.

Resorting to violence would never help in finding a solution, he had said and asked the people living there to remain calm and peaceful.
Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Monday stepped up its attack on the BJP and slammed its chief Amit Shah, saying that his party may win in case of snap polls in Maharashtra and also get its presidential nominee elected but wondered whether it would be able to save the day in Kashmir.

"Amit Shah and his party's eyes are on mid-term polls in Maharashtra. But instead of mid-term poll results, we are worried about what will happen in Kashmir and in violence-hit Darjeeling," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

The Sena's scathing attack on Shah came a day after he met party president Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree'.

It said the biggest question today was till when should we keep counting the number of martyred security personnel.

"Amit Shah says Maharashtra government will last its five-year term. But will our Kashmir remain on India's map?" it questioned.

The Sena said that Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was openly supporting "youth attacking" soldiers and was blaming jawans for the present situation in Kashmir.

"When the Sena talks about farmers and takes a nationalist stand over issues, attempts are made to teach us a lesson. But not a word is spoken against her (Mehbooba) by the BJP. On the contrary they are supporting it," it said.

"Maharashtra shouldn't be a priority. The situation has gone out of hand in Kashmir and Darjeeling where innocents are being killed.

"One may have political differences with (West Bengal CM) Mamata Banerjee but nobody should try to take political advantage of the situation there," it added.

"Whatever has to happen in Maharashtra mid-term polls will happen. Amit Shah says they will form the government. You will get their president elected. You will win all elections. But will you be able to save Kashmir?" it asked.

Shah had on Sunday ruled out any snap polls in Maharashtra but said the party was ready in case of such an eventuality.
New Delhi: The Congress on Monday attacked the Centre and the Shivraj Singh Chauhan dispensation in Madhya Pradesh over farmers stir, saying the Narendra Modi government wants a 'Kisan mukt bharat' (India free of farmers).

Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia said the BJP rode to power in 2014 promising to give farmers a price for their yield which would be 50 per cent more than the production cost.

The Minimum Support Price (MSP), however, has been witnessing a decline, he said.

Scindia, targeting the Madhya Pradesh chief minister over the dead of five farmers in police firing during their protests in Mandsaur, questioned his "reluctance" behind not waiving the loans of the farmers of the state when its neighbours, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, had announced it.

He also reiterated the demand to register an FIR against police officer "guilty of murdering" six farmers in Mandsaur.

Scindia, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, also questioned the Centre's reluctance to not support the states to waive loans of farmers when they can write-off debts of the "corporates".

He said by "abdicating" itself from this responsibility, the Modi government was becoming a "mute spectator" at the time when farmers were committing suicide.

"The BJP government came to power in 2014 by promising to give 50 per cent as against the cost incurred during the production of the yield. But the MSP for crops is not increasing.

"This is because there is a gap between assurances and acts of the government. This is an anti-farmers government who wants a 'kisan mukt bharat' (farmers free India)," the Congress leader told a press conference here.

He claimed that the MSP rose by 150 per cent from 2004- 2013 while the MSP has not increased even by 12 per cent in the first three years of the Modi government.

"In the last three-years of the UPA rule, agriculture sector grew by 4 per cent while in the first three-years of the NDA rule, it has snailed by only 1.7 per cent."

The Congress leader, however, parried questions on whether Congress government in Karnataka, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh would also come up with a loan waiver plan.
Beijing: Without naming Pakistan, India on Monday said there is no difference between good and bad terrorists and urged BRICS member countries to step up the fight against terrorism.

China said it was also "a victim of terrorism" and was taking part in the global initiatives against terror.

But Beijing has repeatedly rejected New Delhi's resolution at the UN to declare an international terrorist Pakistani militant leader, who India holds is the mastermind of Pathankot attack, saying there is not much evidence to prove his involvement.

At the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa) Foreign Ministers' meet, India's Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh expressed New Delhi's growing concerns over terrorism and called for "concerted" efforts to tackle the "menace."

"On behalf of India, I pointed out that terrorism remains the most potent global menace and threatens global peace," Singh said at a press conference afterwards.

"And terrorists cannot be differentiated by calling them good or bad.

"They are terrorists, they are criminals and we need to have concerted actions both in the region and internationally to curb their activities.

"Everyone agrees that terrorism is the common enemy of mankind. Everybody is fully concerned about the spread of terrorism in its various forms and manifestations," Singh said.

"We have a consensus among the BRICS countries that all terrorism must be condemned and various measures must be taken to cooperate so that terrorism does not spread and harm anyone," he added," added the Indian minister, who was accompanied by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his other BRICS counterparts, Sergey Lavrov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa, and Aloysio Nunes of Brazil.

Wang said China was making every effort to combat terrorism.

"China opposes terror in all forms. China is also victim of terror and China is taking part in global initiatives against terror," he said.

"With colleagues today including Indian colleagues, China shares the same position."
Twenty four-year-old Lijesh Prakash is on a mission that may seem improbable to many. A mission to eradicate a social stigma that he and many others are still living with  untouchability.

For Prakash and a handful of determined youth, from Chermala colony at Perambra in Kozhikode in north Kerala, it is a fight to prove to the rest of the world that their community, the 'Sambhavas' or better known in the local parlance as Parayas are not the same untouchable lot and that they also have an identity of their own and a will to gain equality.

That such struggles still exist in one of the most literate and socially developed states in the country is perhaps the biggest irony that stares Kerala in its face. Sambhavas  who fall under the scheduled caste category  have been living in the colony in Perambra for half a century now. Everything around them has changed, except the perception of them in the world outside the physical boundaries of their colony.

However, what has now made the plight of the colony a heated debate among social circles is the story of the Perambra Government Welfare LP School  hardly a few metres away from the colony. Even though it is a regular government school, it has only 14 Dalit students in all the first four standards put together.

This year, only three students have taken admission for the first standard, even though just about a 100 metres away, at another government school, the kids are jostling for space.

So, what keeps the non-Dalit children who are in majority in Perambra away from the welfare school?

Regunathan Thettayil, the school's headmaster explains why: Just because all the Dalit children of the colony are studying here, nobody outside of the colony wants to send their wards here. We have been going from house to house every year for the last ten years. But nothing has changed. Some people tell me on my face. Others give lame excuses. We gradually understood the real reasons."

A complaint has been registered with the Kerala State Commission for Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribes in 2016 by an activist saying that the Sambhava community living in the area had been subjected to tremendous caste discrimination and immediate corrective steps needed to be taken. The complaint let to the Commission issuing notices to almost everyone involved  right from the government secretaries to the panchayat representatives  but nothing much came out of it.

Men on a mission

Prakash and his friends want to bring a difference to this world of untouchability.

He told Firstpost that youngsters like him in the colony had realised that shedding tears wouldn't change the way the world looked at them, instead they decided to bring change from within. We want to tell the outsiders  who dont want our company  that we can also live like them, with respect. Most of them think we are dirty, that we dont bathe, and we do only menial jobs such as manual scavenging. Our ancestors used to do that. It is this perception that we need to change and the respect will follow, said Prakash.

Determined to work their way up, these young boys  10 to 15 of them  from the 40-odd families in the colony, had no idea how to take it forward till they found willing supporters among the firemen at the local fire station. A few of the boys who dropped out of high school or failed their tenth grade are now registering themselves with the Kerala Public Service Commission (KPSC) and are preparing to write various examinations that would help them secure a government job at various levels. The firemen who are providing the support say these boys are on the right track.

"Some of these are boys are very talented but the circumstances are such that most of then drop out after a few years in school. Over the years, having listened to all these stories about these children, we thought that we should do something for these kids. It was tough, but slowly they realised that studying and getting a job is the right way to earn that respect from the society, Shaijesh, a Fireman at Perambra Fire and Rescue Service told Firstpost.

Now, these men double up as their teachers and mentors. Evening classes are conducted at the colony which often go beyond academics and bring in the aspects of social awareness and motivational talks. "We are in a whole new world at the moment and we want to ensure that this goes ahead and changes our colony completely. We are also trying to get our young brothers and sisters into this, added Prakash. The girls have have also taken big strides, though their numbers are few. Aparna and her sister Ashwathy are the only two girls who have now made it to the graduation level from the colony. Aparna is studying bachelors in Sanskrit at a local college.

We have seen how people used to look at us when we were younger  like we are from some other planet. Now that is changing and we realise that the change has come because we wanted things to change," said Aparna.

A Dalit only school

Even as the colony gears up for change, there is no such change at the Government Welfare School nearby. The school has a 'smart classrooms' and a 'pedagogy parks' but there are no takers other than the 14-odd Dalit kids. "What is worse is that these children clearly understand that nobody else wants to come here to learn and play with them as this is just their school. This worries me a lot because whatever we do unless these kids get to sit with non-Dalit children, how will they assimilate into the society? Nobody understands the psychological imprint this segregation leaves on the young minds here, said Thettayil.

Rather than sending them to a local school nearby, where again they stand the chance of being discriminated at a young age, they send them to far-flung schools and also help them get accommodated at hostels run by the Ministry of Schedule Caste and Tribal Affairs close to those schools. Most of them return after finishing Class X or Class XII with a will to make a difference to their social status through education.

Government efforts in vain

The state government maintains that it has been trying its best to sort out the issue. However, meetings called by the district administration were of little help. "What can any government do unless the mindset of the people changes. But we need to understand it is not as bad as it was many years ago. At the same time its still a work in progress. What we intended to do is raise the standard of living of these people first. That is the only way we can bring some changes in their lives and get them some self respect," AK Balan, Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes,

Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes.

However, the Sambhavas still live in make-shift tents and kuccha houses  each one accomodating more than one family. The panchayat and local representatives are in denial about the actual state of affairs.

Perambra colony not alone

The LDF government cannot consider the caste discrimination at Perambra as a one-off case in the state. Hardly 200-kilometres away at Govindapuram in Palakkad, the residents of the Ambedkar colony have been on a similar path since the last few months. The latest standoff has its origins in an inter-caste marriage between a Chakkliyar girl, who belongs to the colony, with a boy from the Ezahava community. The homes of many in the Chakkliyar community were attacked and since then a majority of them have been sleeping by their temple for the last few nights and take turns to stand guard.

CPM claims that the Congress had blown the issue out of proportion, but there are many ways in which the Chakkliyars are consistently discriminated against. From not able to use the common tap which is used by the other communities to being served tea at shops in different tumblers or even having separate temples for worship, the list goes on.

Chermala and Ambedkar colonies are two episodes that would make any literate individual hang his head in shame. But there is a difference between the two. While the Ambedkar colony is still an active volcano where caste violence can erupt any time, Chermala seems to have found its way to tackle the issue. They are breaking the barriers with some serious social empowerment, a lesson for the rest of the world.

Well known Dalits like Dhanya Raman says they are hardly surprised. This may be shocking for the rest of the world that such a situation still exists in Kerala. Not for us. Take the case of the Dalit girl who was murdered inside her home in the evening. Her cries were last heard at 6 pm in the evening and someone in the upper caste neighbourhood went to check on her two hours later. The attitude is still the same  'They are Dalits. Anything goes.' Kerala, with all its advancement in social indices, is still a horror world for a dalit, Raman told Firstpost.
The current agitation for a separate Gorkhaland state has struck a chord with the hill people and local political parties, a throwback to the 1980s when a prolonged movement led by the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) under Subash Ghisingh had rocked Darjeeling.

Cutting across religious, political and ideological divides, the overwhelming view is that Gorkhaland is a "sentiment" that can no longer be ignored.

"Such unity among the people of the hills was last witnessed in the 1980s. Gorkhaland is a sentiment of the people of the hills, which you cannot afford to ignore. It can be suppressed for some time but can't be wiped out," Jan Andolan Party (JAP) chief Harka Bahadur Chetri said as tension continued to simmer, 11 days after the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) called for an indefinite shutdown on 8 June.

Chetri, a former GJM MLA, had formed his own political outfit last year after differences with GJM supremo Bimal Gurung. He has now extended his full support to the cause of Gorkhaland as have GJM's arch-rivals GNLF, All-Bharatiya Gorkha League (ABGL), Gorkhaland Rajya Nirman Morcha (GRNM), Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh (BGP) and the Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists (CPRM).

In a disturbing development for Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee, a section of local leaders of her Trinamool Congress (TMC) has backed the statehood demand along with local CPM leaders.

"Gorkhaland is not a political rhetoric, but a sentiment and a passion which has grown stronger over the years," said a leader who did not want to be named. There were signs of a split in views in the local BJP leadership as well.

BJP district general secretary Shanta Kishore Gurung said, "I may have difference with the GJM and its style of functioning, but on the issue of Gorkhaland we are on the same page. I am also a Gorkha, how can I betray my Gorkha brothers and sisters?"

West Bengal BJP secretary Dilip Ghosh, however, declined to comment on what Gurung said, but maintained that his party was against creation of a separate state. GNLF, an ally of ruling TMC and an arch rival of the GJM, has also broken ranks with the TMC and thrown its weight behind the agitation for a separate state.

"We have our own differences, but... we have decided to keep aside our differences and fight for Gorkhaland. The GNLF has, since its inception in the 1980s, been fighting for Gorkhaland. We now feel that the atmosphere in the hills and at the Centre is fully conducive for the creation of a separate state," Neraaj Zimba, GNLF spokesperson, told PTI over the phone.

Such unity was witnessed during the Gorkhaland agitation in the 1980s then spearheaded by the GNLF under Subash Ghising. The ABGL, whose founder-chief Madan Tamang was murdered in broad daylight on a street in Darjeeling in 2010 suspectedly by the GJM, also endorsed the agitation.

"Yes it is true we have our differences. But presently we need to keep aside differences and respect the sentiments of the hill people," a senior ABGL leader said.

The unrest originated after the 16 May announcement by West Bengal education minister Partha Chatterjee, who said that Bengali should be a compulsory subject from Class 1 to 10 in the state. "From now on, it will be compulsory for students to learn Bengali in schools. English medium schools will have to make Bengali an optional subject from Class I so that the students can study it either as a second or third language, Chatterjee was quoted as saying.

Asked about the "imposition" of Bengali language, the trigger for the current revolt, GJM general secretary Roshan Giri said, "Our mother tongue is Nepali, why would we learn Bengali? Now if someone says that everybody in India needs to learn Sanskrit, will Bengalis accept? This is the reason all of us have united."

Recognised as an official language of Bengal in 1961, Nepali is the official language in the hills of West Bengal. In 1992, Nepali was recognised as one of the official languages of India.

Language at the heart of crisis

Ongoing for over decades, language is at the heart of the Gorkhaland crisis. Supporters of Gorkhaland want a separate Nepalese-speaking region, as this report argues.

Historically, until 1905, when the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, effected the partition of Bengal, Darjeeling was a part of the Rajshahi division, now in Bangladesh. From 1905 to 1912 Darjeeling formed a part of the Bhagalpur division now in Bihar. It was given back to Rajshahi in 1912 and remained with the Rajshahi division till Partition.

The demand for a Gorkhaland is one of the oldest in the country. Speaking to The Business Standard, GJM spokesperson Harka Bahadur Chhetri recently said, "This demand is among the oldest such demands across the country." The first plea, The Indian Express reported, made for an administrative set-up outside of Bengal was in 1907 to the Morley-Minto Reforms panel. Thereafter, numerous representations were made every few years, first to the British government and then to free India's government for separation from Bengal.

The demand for Gorkhaland is based on ethnic identity. "We want a homeland for ourselves  for our own identity. Although we are bona fide Indian citizens, we are still called 'Nepali'. To get rid of the stigma we feel it's essential that we have our own state," Amar Singh Rai, GJM leader, told Scroll.

More and more supporting the movement

Opinion on the street also appears to veer towards supporting the movement, although the current turbulence has rekindled bitter memories of the 80s disturbance which had all but destroyed the local economy overwhelmingly dependent on tourism.

"We have been branded as foreigners, but the fact is that our land and our forefathers were born here. Darjeeling is being treated as a holiday home by the people of Bengal. Gorkhaland is not just a state for us, but a matter of our identity," Smreeti Rai, a professor of St Joseph College, Darjeeling, told PTI.

Mahendra Pradhan, a retired school teacher, echoed Rai. "We are the most neglected community in this country who did not get their due."

Mustaq Ahmed, a shop-owner who has lived in Darjeeling for five decades and considers himself a "Gorkha Muslim", also feels that the demand of Gorkhaland is completely justified as every community has the right to its own identity.

With inputs from agencies
Bhopal: A person was briefly detained in Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh on Sunday for allegedly forwarding an "objectionable" message on social media regarding the deaths of five farmers in Mandsaur during the violent protests earlier this month, an official said on Monday.

However, the opposition Congress claimed that the detainee was a juvenile who is a student of class XI.

Senior party leader and Chhindwara MP Kamal Nath said the detention was akin to an "undeclared emergency" being clamped in the BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh.

However, police said the detainee was a 20-year-old man and not a minor.

"In chief minister's and external affairs minister's area Vidisha, police reaches to catch Class XI student, a minor," reads a tweet posted by Kamal Nath, also a former Union minister.

When contacted, Vidisha superintendent of police Dharmendra Choudhary said the detainee was not a minor but a 20-year-old man who is engaged in agriculture farming.

"He recently cleared class XII examination. The man forwarded an objectionable message regarding the deaths of five farmers to his WhatsApp group after getting it from someone. We picked him up for questioning after we got the link (of the message). We let him off within three hours after questioning him," the officer said.

The person, a resident of Khiria Kheda village under Purwai police station area of the district, was picked up around 6 pm on Sunday, he said, adding that further investigation is on.

According to sources in police department, the WhatsApp message in question sought to appeal people to teach a lesson to those (read police) responsible for killing of the five farmers in Mandsaur earlier this month.

Attacking the state government, the Opposition leader Ajay Singh tweeted, "Was the minor who talked about farmers a terrorist? Is speaking truth also a crime in MP?"
Bhopal: Three farmers allegedly ended their lives in Madhya Pradesh in the past 24 hours due to distress over debts, taking the number of farmer suicides in the state since 8 June to 15.

In Sehore alone, the home district of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, five suicides have been reported.

Bansilal Meena, a 55-year-old farmer from Jamunia Khurd village in Sehore district, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself from ceiling at his home on Monday morning, the police said.

Meena's son Manoj said his father owned nine acres of land and was unable to repay a loan of Rs 11 lakh.

"My father got a well dug up this year but it was dry. Besides, he was unable to repay the loan worth Rs 11 lakh taken from banks and private money lenders," he said.

Sehore Assistant Superintendent of Police AP Singh said a case has been registered in connection with the farmer's death.

Another farmer Jiwan Singh Meena (35) committed suicide on Sunday by hanging from a tree at his farm in Sayar Bamor village in Vidisha district.

Tehsildar Santosh Bitoliya claimed that Meena took the extreme step following a strife with his wife.

However, a family member of Meena said he was worried about the future of his three daughters amid his spiralling debt.

In a separate incident, farmer Pyarelal Oad (60) hanged himself to death in Neemuch district's Pipliya Vyas village on Sunday afternoon.

Dev Karan, Oad's son, said his father was under stress as he was unable to repay a loan worth Rs 2.5 lakh taken from a nationalised bank.

City police station in-charge Hitesh Patil said a case has been registered in this connection.

Neemuch Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident and extended a financial help of Rs 20,000 to the family.

Former MP and Congress national secretary Meenakshi Natarajan on Monday visited the village and met Oad's family.

"Madhya Pradesh is leading in farmers' suicide after Maharashtra, according to the National Crime Record Bureau. It is sad that farmers are taking such steps due to increasing debt. They are also not getting proper prices for their produce in the state," Natarajan later said.

MP recently witnessed farmers' stir over loan waiver, farm produce prices and other demands. The death of five farmers in police firing in Mandsaur district on 6 June during the unrest triggered a series of protests in various parts of the state.

Since 8 June, 15 farmers have ended their lives in Sehore, Hoshangabad, Raisen, Dhar and Vidisha districts.
I am a fan of ACAUT because its a cut above the rest. But this Nagaland-based organisation is much more than an opportunity for a weak pun.

Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) displays courage above and beyond normal in a state with immensely corrupt state machinery, and with several active, heavily armed rebel groups that freely impose parallel administrations as well as system of donations and outright extortion.

On 18 June the citizen-watchdog took on the largest Naga rebel group, National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), or NSCN (I-M). A few days earlier the rebel group was widely regarded as having stopped road-widening work on a stretch of the Dimapur-Kohima national highway, demanding a cut of the fee. Local media reported accompanying or-else threats to burn down machinery of the projects contractors.

No other rebel group in the area has the heft or gumption to act so brazenly, even as it conducts to my mind a largely hollow peace negotiation with the Government of India.

ACAUT waded right in. It released to media a three-day ultimatum for NSCN (I-M) to come clean. Had the group demanded tax? If so, was it the groups policy to stop all developmental works in Nagaland till a settlement was arrived at with government? If not, would the groups leadership contemplate action against rogue cadres and expose such rogue elements with their complete identity and designations, so that people of Nagaland know who these anti-people are?

Alongside, the watchdog urged contractors to deliver quality work, and asked the state government to not sit idle as Nagaland was yet again held to ransom.

NSCN (I-M) will expectedly be livid, but ACAUT simply doesnt give a damn. Last year the organisation earned the rebel groups wrath when it raised matters of extortion. What is this nuisance called ACAUT? the group shot back, adding with a sentimental twist that didnt travel far: No Naga organisation or party had ever mobilised Naga public support to reject the absolute sovereign rights of the nationalist government to impose and collect taxation.

Well, ACAUT has, and continues to question such nationalist governments of rebels who also typically call their cadres national workers. Since its birth in May 2013 ACAUT has emerged as a tough act in this state that at last count had two major and six minor rebel groups: all armed, and, even with the ceasefire process ongoing with some, all dangerous.

Taxation  or donation, or extortion  in Nagaland comes with a twist. Since a peace deal with an earlier generation of rebels birthed the state of Nagaland in 1963, citizens of the state have been exempt from paying any tax as a special dispensation. It hasnt stopped rebel groups from collecting tax from nearly every manner of business from auto-rickshaw driver to construction conglomerate, taxing households, and even, with the help of a supine administration, deducting a percentage of government payroll. Besides, rebels interfere in everything from neighbourhood disputes to general elections to the assembly and Lok Sabha.

Alongside is an administration that counts among the most corrupt in India. Even a casual scan of reports by Comptroller and Auditor General of India shows a steady leaching of several thousand crores of rupees, and malpractices by nearly every sector of government. Massive central government funding for development and security has with little accountability  and the ever-lucrative economy of conflict that encourages a blind eye for the sake of nation-building, whatever that is  turned Nagaland into a breeding ground of billionaires.

Former chief ministers and ministers own vast estates and control vast businesses. As I have repeatedly written elsewhere, in a book and numerous columns and essays, the wealthy also count among them rebels who are now landed gentry. Contractors to government have patrons in the bureaucracy, polity and among rebel groups. Often they are the contractors. Just how corrupt things can be was again exhibited when in early June a former police officer in Nagaland, MKR Pilliai was raided by tax officials.

On top of it all, Nagalands infrastructure has for long been in absolute shambles.

Some citizens clearly had enough, and a collective comprising community leaders, students, even a sparse handful of upright former bureaucrats, formed ACAUT. It began to ask hard questions questions that hadnt been effectively asked for decades in Nagalands lamentable complicity of silence.

ACAUT quickly faced rebel ire. A key episode was an anti-taxation rally against rebels on 31 October, 2013, in Dimapur. Several thousand attended. It drew an outraged, even stunned response from NSCN (I-M) in a media statement five days later. NSCN (I-M) claimed that with the full backing of the Indian armed forces some among Dimapurs Naga Council had created a Frankensteins monster out of a rat. The rebel group even invoked our Lord Jesus Christ, a frequent rebel trope in this deeply Christian region, to warn away ACAUT.

Bluster and outsourced humility didnt work. Protests only intensified.

In August 2014, ACAUT riled another faction, NSCN (Khole-Kitovi). As I wrote at the time during a visit to Nagaland, and later, ACAUTs secretary Solomon Awomi had just been released after being held for several days in that groups headquarter at Kehoi Camp, east of Dimapur. Citizens had intervened. Rebels were compelled to give in as ACAUT and its support base of citizens stood firm.

It also stood by its open letter of April that year to senior government officials to stop giving nearly a quarter of the pay of government employees to rebel groups  among other things a provocation that led to the kidnap and threat.

ACAUT has since questioned the government on numerous malpractices, and exposed numerous scams, including in recruitment to various government posts, misutilsation of central government funds, and even bogus voter rolls. In 2015 it went as far as to publish photos of injuries inflicted by a rebel group on a Naga citizen for refusing to pay tax.

The group is now a force, whether the rebels, Nagalands government, or those not from Nagaland who dip freely into that states well of wealth like it or not.

It is making its presence felt across various forums. For example, ACAUT has a robust Facebook presence, with just shy of 51,000 members as I write this, not shabby for a state with a population of less than 3 million. Many students and professionals from Nagaland live in the larger cities and university towns of India, and a modest number of expatriates are sprinkled largely across Western Europe and North America. ACAUT has fans and followers at home and in all such communities.

ACAUT now stands for accountability in a region where there is so little of it, a model to follow for outraged citizens anywhere.

As I said, Im a fan.

Sudeep Chakravarti is an award-winning author of several books, a columnist, and consultant to think-tanks and media. He tweets @chakraview
New Delhi: A CBI team today visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to probe the disappearance of Najeeb Ahmad, a student who had gone missing from his hostel on October 16, 2016.

The team is looking into allegations of a scuffle between Ahmad and ABVP students in JNU's Mahi-Mandvi hostel and the circumstances that may have led to it as well as other events that preceded his disappearance.

It is likely to meet the suspects and people whose names have cropped up in the matter, sources said.

Najeeb's mother Fatima Nafees recently met CBI officers investigating the case. She gave details of the events before her son disappeared from his hostel.

Najeeb had returned to the University on 13 October 2016 after a holiday. On the intervening night of 15-16 October, he called his mother to tell her that something was wrong. His roommate later told Fatima he had been injured in a fight, she had said.

Following the conversation, Fatima took a bus from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh to reach Delhi in the afternoon. After reaching Anand Vihar, she spoke to him over the phone and asked him to meet her at the hotel.

She said in her complaint that there was no trace of Najeeb when she reached his room in Mahi Hostel room 106. With Delhi Police failing to find her son, Fatima approached the Delhi High Court demanding a CBI probe.

On May 16, a bench of Justices G S Sistani and Rekha Palli handed over the investigation to the CBI with the direction that it has to be monitored by an officer not less than the rank of DIG. The matter has been posted for hearing on July 17.

The high court had time and again come down heavily on the police for failing to trace the student after several months of investigation and even remarked that it was looking for an "escape route" and was "beating around the bush".

The court had also questioned the conduct of the police saying that it was trying to sensationalise the matter as it was filing reports in sealed covers when "there was nothing confidential, damaging or crucial" in them.
Editor's Note: Video Volunteers, a country-wide community journalism network, is running a series to document instances of patriarchy and gender discrimination in the everyday lives of women across India. Firstpost will reproduce select stories in arrangement with Video Volunteers. Read V Geetha, feminist activist, author and social historian's introductory essay, for this series, on the virulence of daily patriarchy in India.

Malati Mahato lives in a tiny dwelling just outside a hamlet in Sundergarh district of Odisha. At first glance nothing seems to be amiss: shes leading a quiet life amidst an idyllic, bucolic setting.But all is not what meets the eyeMalati has been cast outside her family and her village. She was ostracised on the orders of a kangaroo court which deemed her offence serious enough for such a strict punishment. Malatis offence? She addressed her in-laws by their name.

Absolutely bizarre as it sounds, this is not out of the pages of a dystopian fantasy novel, but the reality of how women continue to be treated in the 21st century in India. Malati had incensed her sister-in-law when she made a reference to an elder male relative by his name. Her sister-in-law called a meeting of the village elders and asked for justice for such behaviour. At the meeting it was unanimously decided that Malati must pay the price by completely severing all ties with her marital family and the entire village. She was banished to a dwelling outside the village and the villagers were forbidden from communicating with her. Malati, despite this treatment meted to her, remains strong in her convictions: I dont think I did anything wrong, she asserts.

But we should not make the mistake of dismissing this as a one-off incident from backward rural India. Even in urban context women are not allowed to address their in-laws, sometimes husbands, directly. As a responses to a thread on the popular online forum Quora shows, theres inequality written into womens experience: Women arent supposed to call their husband and his family by their names

Time and time again, incidents from across the country have repeatedly demonstrated that womens rights are subservient to what is deemed culturally appropriate. Even the judiciary, supposedly an impartial arbiter, has repeatedly ruled in favour of patriarchal practices within the marriage. The Bombay High Court acquitted a man charged with emotional abuse of his wife ruling that taunting her English accent, abusing her relatives or her cooking skills were part of ordinary discord in matrimonial life. That she subsequently committed suicide was chalked up to her hyper-sensitivity.

On the other hand, in another judgement the Supreme Court ruled that it was cruelty to ask a husband to separate from his family, noting that in normal circumstances, a wife is expected to be with the family of the husband after the marriageIn our opinion, normally, no husband would tolerate a separate residence and no son would like to be separated from his old parents and other family members. The unquestioning acceptance that a son cannot be separated from his family, but a daughter must reveals the pernicious hierarchy inherent in patriarchy: women must submit to men, they will always be considered lesser.

I didnt attend the meeting . They tried to pressurise my husband to drag me out of the house. Its been one and half years now. No one in the village invites me to social functions or interacts with me.

While the apex courts of the country are leading by dubious interpretations in favour of patriarchal mores, the power of kangaroo courts is also scary. Malati says: I didnt attend the meeting . They tried to pressurise my husband to drag me out of the house. Its been one and half years now. No one in the village invites me to social functions or interacts with me. Bidesini Patel, the CC who was moved by Malatis story to make a film about her has this to say about the incident,This incident shows how we trample on womens rights. I urge everyone to stop punishing women for addressing their husband and in-laws by their names. The ban on taking names of in-laws to show respect is only symptomatic of the way we treat women overall in the country. The inferior position of women in the patriarchal setup is reflected through the unequal apportioning of rules to show respect to marital family while no such rules apply to the married men.

While the right to address someone by their name might seem like a ridiculously ineffective step to dismantle a behemoth like patriarchy, it is really the first step in realising how easily we accept and condone such customs. A little thing like this has resulted in Malati having no home and no social support system. Well only succeed in creating equality when we stop treating such instances as aberrations and learn to see in them the pernicious continuum of patriarchal violence in our everyday lives.
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday showered praise on Governor Ram Nath Kovind, whom the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) earlier in the day named as its candidate for the 17 July presidential election, saying he is "personally glad" over his candidature.

However, Kumar was non-committal on whether his Janata Dal-United (JD-U) will support Kovind.

"Kovind has discharged his duties in an unbiased manner as the Bihar governor. He has worked as per the Constitution and upheld the dignity of the governor's post. His was an ideal relation with the state government," Nitish Kumar said after meeting Kovind at Raj Bhavan here.

He said he congratulated Kovind, a Dalit leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party, on his nomination as the NDA candidate, and added that "I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate".

As to whether the JD-U will support his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: "It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and Congress President Sonia Gandhi on this issue. We will discuss the issue later and decide."

Kovind is likely to leave Patna for Delhi on Monday evening to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.
Hyderabad: The ruling TRS in Telangana on Monday said the party would support NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

According to a statement from the office of Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, soon after deciding the candidature of Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Rao over phone and requested his support for the NDA's candidate.

"The prime minister told the chief minister over phone, as per your (KCR's) suggestion we have decided upon a Dalit candidate for the presidential post," it said.

The chief minister immediately consulted his party colleagues and conveyed to the prime minister the TRS's "willingness and his willingness" to support the NDA candidate.

The BJP on Monday named Dalit leader and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's candidate for the post of president.

Kovind is likely to file his papers on 23 June, BJP President Amit Shah said after a nearly two-hour meeting of the BJP parliamentary board.

He said political parties had been informed of the NDA's choice and expressed hope that they all will agree to his name.
New Delhi: Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday said the suggestions of the opposition parties did play a role in the NDA picking Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential nominee.

"I hope they (opposition) would not have any reason to oppose the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind because of his background, non-controversial nature, and sound legal and social background."

"I only hope that the opposition parties will support Kovindji and join us in getting him elected unanimously as the President of India," he told reporters.

The three-member committee, formed by BJP chief Amit Shah to hold consultations with the political parties on the issue, conveyed its views based on the suggestions of the allies and opposition parties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah, Naidu said, adding that they took these into account.

Besides Naidu, Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Arun Jaitley were the other members of the committee.

Naidu recalled that Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was unanimously elected as the president and there was an "understanding" among all the major parties when A P J Abdul Kalam was elected to the country's top constitutional post.

Despite a majority, the BJP reached out to all the political parties "in the spirit of democracy", the urban development minister said.

Before Kovind's name was announced, Modi had spoken to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeking their support to the NDA candidate for the presidential polls.

Naidu said the prime minister had also spoken to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, whose Telugu Desam Party is an ally of the BJP in the NDA, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao and some other leaders.
Laying to rest all speculation, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday announced the name of incumbent Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate in the Presidential Election.

Kovind is likely to file his papers on 23 June, BJP president Amit Shah said after a nearly two-hour meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Board. He said political parties had been informed of the NDA's choice. "I hope all will agree with the name," he said at a press conference.

The 71-year-old low profile Dalit leader from Uttar Pradesh, is seen as an astute choice by the saffron party, which has been targeted by opposition parties over Dalit issues, and his election is almost a certainty as the ruling bloc with the support of some regional parties enjoys a majority in the electoral college.

Kovind has a long career in politics behind him. He has headed the BJP's Dalit Morcha and is among one of the few Dalit faces the party could boast of in it's folds in north India. The party has also nominated him as its Rajya Sabha MP from the Hindi heartland twice in the past, where he enjoyed consecutive terms from 1994 for the next 12 year till March, 2006.

Announcing his name as the party's choice for the presidential elections, Shah said, "Ram Nath comes from a Dalit family and has struggled a lot. We hope he will be the unanimous candidate for the election."

A lawyer by profession, Kovind is a commerce graduate from Kanpur University. He has been a Central government advocate in the Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and a Central Government Standing Counsel in the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993, according to News 18.

He is married to Savita Kovind and has a son and a daughter. Kovind, who emerged as the dark horse, is known for his clean image and Dalit outreach. He has extensively worked for providing free legal aid to the weaker sections of society, specially SC/ST women.

In his long standing political career, Kovind not only has the experience of sitting on a constitutional post as Bihar governor but he also has enough administrative experience as member of various parliamentary committees. He has been the chairman of the Rajya Sabha House Committee and has served as a member of the Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes and Social Justice and Empowerment among others. Kovind joined a stir by SC/ST employees when in 1997 certain orders were issued by the Centre which adversely affected their interests. These orders were later declared null and void after the passage of three amendments in the Constitution during the rule of the first NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

His career as a lawyer too, spans over 16 years. As an advocate, Kovind took the lead in providing free legal aid to weaker sections, especially the SC/ST women, and poor and needy girls under the aegis of the Free Legal Aid Society in Delhi.

Kovind is also known for his work in the field of education. He has served as member on the board of management of the Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow. He was also a member of the board of governors of the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata.

He has also represented India in the United Nations and addressed the UN General Assembly in October, 2002. As a member of Parliament, Kovind visited Thailand, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Germany, Switzerland, France, United Kingdom and the USA.

As an MP, Kovind emphasised on the development of basic infrastructure for education in rural areas and helped in construction of school buildings under the MPLAD scheme.

It was largely speculated that the saffron party could choose a Dalit face for the top constituitional post, as the name of Draupadi Murmu, another tribal leader from Odisha and current Jharkhand Governor also briefly did rounds. The strategy behind such a move was aimed at achieving multiple objectives.

As Firstpost predicted in this analytical piece, the saffron party wanted to "market its outreach to Dalits and tribals as genuine" eyeing the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. If elected, he will be the second President of India after KR Narayanan to be a member of the Dalit community.

Most political parties have so far refrained from directly opposing or espousing BJP's presidential pick. However, the BJP's choice of a Dalit face with a clean image will make it tougher for the Opposition to directly oppose Kovind's nomination.

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With inputs from IANS and PTI
New Delhi: The CBI on Monday went to Delhi health minister Satyendar Jain's residence to seek clarifications from his wife in connection with an ongoing inquiry into allegations of money laundering against him.

CBI sources said the agency had sought time from the minister's wife.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the Central government of "vendetta politics". "Central govt (sic) of BJP is misusing CBI for its vendetta politics. After Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, BJP's CBI raids on Minister," the party said in a tweet.

"Vendetta Politics Continues"

After CM Arvind Kejriwal and Dy CM Manish Sisodia, BJP's CBI raids Minister @SatyendarJain. pic.twitter.com/8Q8sT5srQn  AAP (@AamAadmiParty) June 19, 2017

CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry (PE) against the AAP minister in connection with the allegations of money laundering in April.

He was recently examined by the agency in connection with the probe.

Jain is alleged to be involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, CBI sources said.

Jain had dismissed the allegations after the Enforcement Directorate last month attached properties linked to him in the matter.

A PE is the first step by the CBI to gather information about allegations.

If the agency is convinced that there exists prima facie material in the matter, it may register a regular case against the accused. Allegations against Jain also include purported money laundering to the tune of Rs 11.78 crore during 2010-12 through these companies and Indometal Impex Pvt Limited.
Agartala: The ruling CPM in Tripura on Monday claimed that a tribal based party is trying to create trouble ahead of next year's assembly polls at the "behest of the Prime Minister's Office (PMO)".

Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT), which is agitating for a separate state carved out of areas falling under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), has announced blockade of National Highway-8, Tripura's life line, and the lone railway line of the state for an indefinite period from 10 July to push for its demand.

"The IPFT is going to start a dangerous road and rail blockade agitation at the behest of the PMO. The IPFT leaders had a meeting with minister of state in PMO Jitendra Singh on 17 May in New Delhi and after that they announced the road and railway blockade stir," CPM state secretary Bijan Dhar told reporters.

"A few months before the Manipur Assembly elections, (the) BJP forced the United Naga Council (UNC) to block the state's vital national highway to put the then Congress government in an awkward situation with an aim to dislodge the party from power. Within 48-hours of assumption of office by a BJP government in Manipur, the several-months-long road blockade was withdrawn," he added.

He said the UNC is a political organisation of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM).

Dhar, a CPM Central Committee member, also alleged that IPFT president Narendra Chandra Debbarma while he was station director of All India Radio, Agartala, held meetings with terrorist outfits based in Bangladesh and these facts were known by the central and state intelligence agencies.

"Terror outfit NLFT (National Liberation Front of Tripura) has recently changed its leader and vowed to support the IPFT in the next assembly elections. The BJP has a covert tie-up with IPFT," Dhar said, adding that the three might do some "serious conspiracy" ahead of the assembly polls.

"There would be no existence of Tripura if a separate state is formed out of this tiny state. Moreover, decades old ethnic harmony would also be destroyed," the Left leader said.

BJP and IPFT leaders, however, denied the accusations.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit president Biplab Kumar Deb said, "The CPM's claim is totally false and imaginary. The BJP never supports the division of Tripura. The Left Front can take legal and administrative action against anyone trying to create trouble and disturb the peace."

"Due to misrule of CPM, the tribals remained backward in Tripura," the BJP leader said.

CPM central Committee member Gautam Das criticised the BJP leader. "Biplab Deb is a political upstart. He is not aware that the separate state demand was raised soon after CPM came to power in Tripura in 1978. Now, the IPFT, a mask of the banned NLFT outfit, has again raised the demand," he said.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath today asked opposition parties to rise above party politics and support senior BJP leader Ram Nath Kovind for the post of President.

Describing Bihar Governor Kovind's candidature by NDA as supreme honour of the Dalit samaj, Adityanath at a hurriedly convened press conference said someone from among them has been selected for the top most constitutional post of the country.

"It is a new social awakening that a Dalit has been selected for the top most constitutional post of the country for which I want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on behalf of the people of the state," the chief minister stressed.

"It is my appeal to all political parties to rise above party politics and support the son of Uttar Pradesh to become the president," he said, adding that this was his personal appeal as well as that on behalf of his government.

"It is a matter of pride for the 22 crore people of the state," he said. Meanwhile, BJP celebrated the candidature of Kovind as presidential candidate at the state headquarters here with workers and activists distributing sweets amid drum beats and bursting of crackers.

NDA on Monday announced the name of Kovind, a Dalit leader born in Ghatampur area of Kanpur Dehat district as its presidential candidate.

The 71-year-old two-term BJP Rajya Sabha member, is seen as an astute choice by the saffron party, which has been targeted by opposition parties over Dalit issues, and his election is almost a certainty as the ruling bloc with the support of some regional parties enjoys a majority in the electoral college. K R Narayanan was the country's first Dalit president
Where are they? Where are the posts by those who almost daily blast President Trump calling him an illegitimate president and a traitor? Where are their posts denouncing this recent attack on a member of Congress? Where is their rejection of a "play" in Central Park depicting a character representing President Trump being stabbed to death in a parody of the death of Julius Caesar?



Where is the man obsessed by the Tea Party who boasts that he is "a real American" or the man "who fears for America" presumably because Trump won? Where are their denunciations of this bloody attack, the reprehensible rhetoric, the Portland anarchist riots, the stabbing parody or Kathy Griffin's deranged photo?



Do they not see the Left is just normalizing violence by people against government officials they don't like or even despise? I can't imagine their outrage if this hate was directed toward Mrs. Clinton. I remember their posts attacking unidentified Tea Party members for supposedly spitting or taunting. And they were quick to assign motives. But where are they now?



CNN posted some very nasty rants against "Mr Trump & Company" on this Bernie Sanders campaign worker's Facebook page and now CNN reports he had a hit list of Republicans. Actually it was a kill list. So when are the people who call Republicans and conservatives witless, racists and bigots going to see they might be contributing to an atmosphere of violence?



When one finally does get around to making a comment it will most likely be a lecture on the need for gun control or how disturbed this man was.



Ralph Miller

* * *

"There is no difference between these two groups - ISIS and Liberals."







Courtesy of Chattanooga Tea Party Facebook Page. Posted June 16, 2017.

Melissa Cantrell

Signal Mountain

* * *

Thank you, Mr. Miller, for your post. Hopefully they are in classes learning respect and how to become gracious in defeat. They, along with main street media, have stooped to all time lows and doubtfully will they ever gain respect in their reporting or talk. They are destroying this country from within and are doing more damage to their party then they can begin to realize. If they continue on this same path I fear the day will come when the right decides they have had enough and take control of the situation just as these 63 million people put our great President Trump in office.

For the most part the right is an extremely patient and non violent bunch. However if you continue to back a dog up in the corner sooner or later he is going to come out fighting.

Never was I a fan of Obama but he was our president and he garnered respect and support from the majority of the right for eight years. I didnt block streets in protest, hold a head depicting decapitation, staged a play killing him, etc., etc. I didnt like him but at least I had enough respect for our country to avoid violent protesting with hate filled passion.

Time for the right to take control of their violent people and put them in place. Then maybe they can gain my respect someday as a party of intelligent people with different views then mine. I can respect them for their views even though I disagree and can do this with class, not violence. I was raised a hard core Democrat in the 60s and 70s and we never acted like they do now. Eventually I became independent and voted for those I liked the best because of their views. Now Im pretty much a solid Republican and support their agenda 99 percent.

Keep on draining the swamp, President Trump.

Michael Mansfield
New Delhi: A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team on Monday questioned Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain's wife in connection with allegations of money laundering.

A CBI official said the team sought clarifications from her. The CBI in April launched a probe against Jain.

In April, the agency registered a preliminary enquiry against Jain based on the evidences it had collected against him in connection with Rs 4.63 crore of money laundering in 2015-16. The CBI had questioned Jain on 1 and 2 June.

Jain was accused of being involved in money laundering through some Kolkata-based companies.

He was also accused of laundering Rs 11.78 crore in 2010-12 through these companies and a Delhi-based company.

The matter was referred to the CBI by the Income Tax Department, which in September 2016 summoned Jain for his alleged links with the firms that were under scanner for alleged hawala transactions. Jain has denied the charges against him.
Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekhar Rao Sunday said his government will take up the bill providing 12 percent reservation to Muslims, passed by the state legislature, with the Centre for its nod.

"When I had a meeting with the prime minister, I told him that it was our (TRS') election promise to give 12 percent reservations to Muslims...the Assembly has already passed resolutions in this regard and it was sent to the Centre. He (Narendra Modi) asked me to send it and promised to look into it positively," said Rao, speaking at an iftar gathering organised by the government in Hyderabad on Sunday evening.

"We will go to Delhi and take up this matter with the Central government and ensure its success (clearance). Or else, Telangana government will not keep quiet. This (reservation) is our right," he said.

The bill, passed by the Telangana legislature increases reservations in jobs and education for backward sections of Muslim community to 12 percent from the earlier four percent.

Earlier, speaking after laying foundation stone of Rs 20-crore Anees-ul-Gurbha Complex in Nampally area, the chief minister said his government accords utmost importance to the education of Muslim children.

The state government has set up 204 residential schools for underprivileged children from the Muslim community which will benefit 1.33 lakh students, he said.

Anees-Ul-Gurbha, a shelter house, is functioning in Hyderabad since 1921. It lost some land in road expansion, so the government allotted it 4,000 square yards of land to compensate the loss and sanctioned Rs 20 crore to construct a new complex, a government release said.
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In an earlier piece, Sunil Raman had written for Firstpost: "Modi and BJP president Amit Shahs strategy to get Dalit-tribal duo in president and vice-president offices is meant to achieve multiple objectives"

He once headed the BJP's Dalit wing. Kovind was made the Governor of Bihar two years ago after the NDA took power in the centre in May 2014.

"Ram Nath comes from a Dalit family and has struggled a lot. We hope he will be the unanimous candidate for the election," Shah said.

If elected, Ram Nath Kovind will be the second Dalit Indian President after KR Narayanan. The earlier names which were doing the rounds for Presidency included External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.

Before the announcement, we had hoped for a discussion so that there is no consensus. They informed Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh only after the decision was made. This was a one-sided decision, said Azad. He added that the final decision will be taken by the Opposition after the 22 June meeting.

Azad further said that Congress has always believed that the Opposition will make an unanimous decision on the presidential candidate. Sonia Gandhi was authorised to form a sub-group. In the meantime, the BJP has decided that three senior ministers will talk to the Opposition about the presidential candidate. During the meeting, no mentioned was mentioned.

Congress will not comment on NDA's pick for the presidential candidate, said Ghulam Nabi Azad, after Amit Shah announced Ram Nath Kovind's candidature.

By announcing Kovind's name as NDA presidential candidate, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah have yet again reminded that they are a master of surprises, expect the unexpected from them. They have proved that all the media speculations and the so called "informed" private talks among the senior leads and ministers to be wrong after Kovind's name was nowhere on the radar when speculations were rife. Read more here .

Expressing her party's reservation about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee said that, "The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate." Read more here .

Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj should have been nominee: Mamata Banerjee

Wont support BJPs Presidential candidate if it is for votebank : Uddhav Thackeray "If someone is trying to make a Dalit a President with the purpose of gaining a vote bank then we are not with them," Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said about Ram Nath Kovind, NDA's pick for the 2017 Presidential elections. He then went to add that, "But if it is for the development of the nation then we may support."

If there is an impression that Kovind is selected only to bring Dalits under the BJP fold, it would be far from reality. In fact, Kovinds selection as the NDAs presidential candidate is driven by an objective of deepening the Hindutva into those social segments which were inaccessible to the ideologues of Sangh Parivar. Kovinds selection is certainly a part of a larger political project of consolidating the Hindu identity. Full analysis here .

Kumar entered electoral politics in 1985, when she joined Congress. Read more about the Opposition presidential candidate here

"It's a wonderful choice and I wish her all the luck.. I don't think there could've been a better choice than her. Meira Kumar's name has been doing rounds for long time. She is a well known and highly respected figure," senior Congress leader Sheila Dixit tells Times Now

"As a woman I would want to compliment Meira ji but they dont have the numbers. The majority is for Ram Nath Kovind with all the correct prerequisites." Shaina NC tells Times Now

Will meet Nitish Kumar and will continue to urge him to change his decision to support NDA prez candidate Kovind: Lalu Prasad

Senior RJD leader Raghuvansh Prasad Singh alleged that Nitish had taken the decision to demean the RJD. He also feared the ruling Mahagathbandhan might not last long in Bihar.

JD(U) did not participate in today's opposition meeting held in Delhi but RJD leader Lalu Yadav was present there. Lalu had made it clear that He would go with what the Congress led opposition will decide.

Not only Bhai Virendra but other RJD leaders have openly ciriticised Nitish Kumar since yesterday when the Bihar CM announced to support Kovind.

"People of Bihar will never forget Nitish Kumar. Now a daughter of Bihar from Dalit background has been named Presidential candidate. Nitish should have waited and thought about it. He has done a big mistake and will pay price for that," he said.

Latest salvo from the RJD is set to widen the cracks within the ruling Mahagathbandhan. Other alliance partner Congress has also denounced Nitish' party JD(U) for going with the BJP.

"Nitish had called me and told about his decision. I advised him not to do so but I can't say what happened after that. Now everybody knows what He has done. He himself had pitched for opposition unity and backtracked," Lalu said.

After attending the meeting in Delhi, RJD leader Lalu Prasad said that Nitish had done a historical mistake.

Nitish has done a historical mistake, People of Bihar will never forget him: RJD

Talking to reporters, Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, said: "There could not have been a better candidate than Meira Kumar for the post of President."

"You cannot look at her (Meira Kumar's) caste. Her credentials are known to the world," DMK leader Kanimozhi tells Times Now

"I had initially said Kovind was connected to RSS and BJP ideologies. I had also said that a non-Dalit would've been a better NDA candidate. After the BJP and NDA's one-sided decision, the opposition parties called for a meeting, Today, UPA and others have unaniomously chose Meira Kumar who comes from a Dalit background, " Mayawati tells at a press conference

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) will hold a meeting of its 28 MLAs and two Rajya Sabha MPs to decide which candidate to vote for during the presidential election on 17 July, after some of its members expressed opposition to NDA candidate Ram Nath Kovind, due to his RSS background.

Daughter of former deputy prime minister late Jagjivan Ram, Meira Kumar, 72, was the first woman to occupy the high office of the Lok Sabha Speaker between 2009 and 2014 during the UPA-II rule.

The career of Kumar began when she quit her Indian Foreign Service(IFS) job and decided to fight the Lok Sabha polls in 1985, a year before her fathers death.

From being a foreign service officer to a five-term MP and then a Cabinet minister, Kumar has traversed a long way and a varied course that came in handy to her in running the Lok Sabha that often throws itself into scenes of tumult.

She became an MP for the second time in 1996 and again in 1998 from Delhis Karol Bagh constituency but lost her seat in 1999 when NDA returned to power. Kumar was re-elected in 2004 with a huge margin from Sasaram in Bihar, the constituency of her father, and became an MP for the fifth time in 2009.

Meira Kumar was elected to Lok Sabha for the first time from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh in 1985, defeating top Dalit leaders Mayawati and Ram Vilas Paswan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted on Friday morning that he will accompany NDA's presidnetial nominee Ram Nath Kovind as he files his nomination papers. According to News18, Kovind will assemble in the Parliament library at 11 am with chief ministers, members of parliament, and members of Legislative Assembly.

The electoral college comprising all elected MPs and MLAs of India would appear to be firmly behind Ram Nath Kovind. NDA, its constituents and allies make up 48.6 percent of the electoral college. This apart, regional parties like AIADMK, BJD, TRS and JD(U) have also decided to back Kovind's candidature as the next president of India, giving him over 60 percent of the electoral college, and that figure could increase further, given that some regional parties are still undecided.

It is expected that the security cover will be with him in the upcoming days and weeks, as he travels the length and breadth of the country to canvass for support.

Ram Nath Kovind has also been accorded Z+ security, and commandos of the NSG and security agencies have also done security audit of Kovind's temporary residence in the capital. "A Z+ and NSG security cover has been given to Ram Nath Kovind," a home ministry spokesperson confirmed.

The opposition's presidential candidate Meira Kumar will file her nomination papers on Wednesday, the last date of filing nominations. Apart from prominent Congerss leaders, leaders of 16 other parties supporting her, including NCP's Sharad Pawar, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, CPI-M's Sitaram Yechury and Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad are also expected to be present during the filing of nomination.

The External Affairs Minister on Sunday posted a video of former Kumar, who was the former Lok Sabha speaker, on Twitter which she , "This is how Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar treated the Leader of Opposition." Vadakkan's reponse came in light of the aforementioned tweet.

Congress party criticised External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for targeting the Opposition's presidential nominee Meira Kumar. The Opposition leaders said that Kumar is a credible person, and that is a well known fact. Congress leader Tom Vadakkan said that Swaraj, while holding a responsible office, should refrain from making such comments, Deccan Chronicle reported.

"We should hang our heads in shame, even if there is one incident of violence against Dalits." "Even today in our country, atrocities are being committed on Dalits, the oppressed and weaker sections... my fight is against that," Kumar added.

Meira Kumar described recent attacks on Dalits as "shameful", even as she said that it was unfortunate that the elections to a constitutional post are being reduced to the discussion around the candidates' caste.

In a political comeback, Congress had named Meira the presidential nominee after BJP named Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential pick. While Kovind was the governor of Biihar, Meira hails from the state and is the daughter of a prominent politican Jagjivan Ram. Both Kovind and Meira are Dalits.

However, she had already reached out to each member of the electorate through her letter two days ago in which she made an emotional appeal to their "voice of inner conscience".

As Nitish Kumar, a Congress ally in Bihar, declared his support for the NDA candidate, Meira Kumar said that she had not yet decided on whether to appeal to Bihar Chief Minister to support her nomination.

Haven't yet made up my mind over appealing to JD(U) for support: Meira Kumar

Meira Kumar will file a set of four nomination papers which will be proposed and seconded by leaders of a number of opposition parties. She will file her papers at 11:30 AM in Parliament before the Lok Sabha Secretary General, the returning officer for the 17 July presidential election.

Opposition's presidential nominee and former Lok Sabha speaker Kumar said that she will pay her respects at the Samadhis of Mahatma Gandhi and Jagjivan Ram, her father before she files her nomination papers at 11.30 am.

"These charges are baseless and are being levelled with the intent of tarnishing my image. The government has given the bungalow to a government body and later a government office."

Kumar, however, brushed aside these allegations, adding that due process was followed in the move.

Controversies from her past has come back to haunt Meira Kumar, who will file her nomination papers today. Kumar has been embroiled in a controversy over a government bungalow allotted to her. It is alleged that using her influence as the Lok Sabha speaker, she apparently got it converted into a memorial for her father.

"None had alleged that my style of functioning was biased."

Responding to Union minister Sushma Swaraj's releasing a video of a Lok Sabha speech to indicate how she was treated as leader of opposition, Kumar said leaders of various parties had never criticised her for her style of functioning but appreciated it.

However, JD(U)'s presence was noticeably missing from the scene, which had pledged support to NDA's candidate Ram Nath Kovind, even before Kumar's candidature was announced.

In yet another bid to underscore Opposition's unity, leaders from various political parties flanked Kumar as she reached Parliament House to file her nomination papers. From Congress President Sonia Gandhi, to All India Trinamool Congress' Derek O' Brian, prominent leaders from several opposition parties made appearances alongside Kumar.

BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu filed fourth set of nomination papers on behalf of Kovind to conclude the nomination formalities for the NDA's presidential pick. The Presidential elections, slated for 17 July, will see a race between Opposition's Meira Kumar and Kovind, who has a decided advantage given to the strength of the ruling party in the House.

Asked why Sabarmati, Kumar said, "Everybody knows the significance of Sabarmati in our country. The 'sant' of Sabarmati (Mahatma Gandhi) played an important role in the freedom movement of our country. That's why I am going there."

"I feel I should start my election campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. I will start from there," said Kumar briefing media in New Delhi, a day ahead of filing her nomination papers.

Meira Kumar is likely to launch her campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad in Gujarat after her nomination papers are cleared on Thursday.

However, Nitish's decision to stand by Kovind has started rumours that the Opposition unity may not be as strong as the Congress would like to portray.

Presidential poll candidate has become a bone of contention between JD(U) and the rest of the opposition parties. While JD(U) declared its support for NDA's Ram Nath Kovind for being Bihar's former governor, Congress fielded Meira Kumar, another Dalit and daughter of prominent leader from the state Jagjivan Ram.

A total of 4,120 MLAs and 776 MPs would cast their votes in the presidential election on 17 July. Kovind fielded by the NDA is expected to garner almost 60 percent of votes with the help of support extended by several non-NDA parties such as JD(U), BJD, and both factions of AIADMK.

Even as Meira Kumar's candidature was approved by 17 opposition political parties, the numbers are clearly in favour of Ram Nath Kovind.

However, JD(U)'s presence was noticeably missing from the scene, which had pledged support to NDA's candidate Ram Nath Kovind, even before Kumar's candidature was announced.

In yet another bid to underscore Opposition's unity, leaders from various political parties flanked Kumar as she reached Parliament House to file her nomination papers. From Congress President Sonia Gandhi, to All India Trinamool Congress' Derek O' Brian, prominent leaders from several opposition parties made appearances alongside Kumar.

BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu filed fourth set of nomination papers on behalf of Kovind to conclude the nomination formalities for the NDA's presidential pick. The Presidential elections, slated for 17 July, will see a race between Opposition's Meira Kumar and Kovind, who has a decided advantage given to the strength of the ruling party in the House.

Meira Kumar entered electoral politics in 1985 when she joined Congress and is a five-time Lok Sabha MP. Kumar, the daughter of prominent Dalit leader Jagjivan Ram, has beaten powerful Dalit leaders like Ram Vilas Paswan and Mayawati to win in Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh. She is also the first woman to become the Lok Sabha Speaker. Read more about her family background and political career here.

Asked why Sabarmati, Kumar said, "Everybody knows the significance of Sabarmati in our country. The 'sant' of Sabarmati (Mahatma Gandhi) played an important role in the freedom movement of our country. That's why I am going there."

"I feel I should start my election campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. I will start from there," said Kumar briefing media in New Delhi, a day ahead of filing her nomination papers.

Meira Kumar is likely to launch her campaign from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad in Gujarat after her nomination papers are cleared on Thursday.

She represents the values that binds us as a nation: Rahul Gandhi on Meira Kumar

However, Nitish's decision to stand by Kovind has started rumours that the Opposition unity may not be as strong as the Congress would like to portray.

Presidential poll candidate has become a bone of contention between JD(U) and the rest of the opposition parties. While JD(U) declared its support for NDA's Ram Nath Kovind for being Bihar's former governor, Congress fielded Meira Kumar, another Dalit and daughter of prominent leader from the state Jagjivan Ram.

Our alliance in Bihar is strong, different views over #PresidentialPoll has nothing to do with the alliance or Govt: KC Tyagi,JDU pic.twitter.com/429bmXaqkn

A total of 4,120 MLAs and 776 MPs would cast their votes in the presidential election on 17 July. Kovind fielded by the NDA is expected to garner almost 60 percent of votes with the help of support extended by several non-NDA parties such as JD(U), BJD, and both factions of AIADMK.

Even as Meira Kumar's candidature was approved by 17 opposition political parties, the numbers are clearly in favour of Ram Nath Kovind.

In the run-up to the 15th presidential elections scheduled to be held on 17 July, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday called its MPs and MLAs to New Delhi for the signing of nomination papers, media reports say. The process to elect the next head of state began on Monday. BJP's parliamentary board meeting is scheduled to take place at 12 pm on Monday.

#PresidentialPoll BJP has called its MPs, MLAs to Delhi for signing of nomination papers, process of which begins today. pic.twitter.com/DECzi0UJeB  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

All senior ministers of the party, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah, will attend Monday's meeting, IANS reported. BJP is likely to announce its candidate on 22 June.

#PresidentialPoll BJP President Amit Shah arrives at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting scheduled to take place at 12 noon #Delhi pic.twitter.com/rcsqlRKgi1  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

According to IANS, the board members will be briefed about the consultation of the three-member party committee formed to evolve consensus with the Opposition on the subject. This three-member committee, which was constituted by Shah last week, comprises of senior BJP leaders and Union ministers Rajnath Singh, M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley.

Although, neither the Centre nor the Opposition have declared their presidential candidate, yet several names like that of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, have been doing the rounds. However, Swaraj dismissed claims of her nominations saying these were merely rumours.

Meanwhile, the BJP has been trying to gather support of its allies and other parties before the voting begins. Amit Shah met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday to discuss the issue, but reports suggested that the talks were unsuccessful. Thackeray reportedly rejected Shah's proposal that Narendra Modi be allowed to decide on a presidential candidate.

Naidu on Sunday held discussions with Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party. He also met Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav and Naresh Agrawal to come up with a mutually-acceptable candidate. Jaitley, on the other hand, spoke to leaders of the Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal.

Earlier on Friday, BJP leaders Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu met CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury and assured him that they would come up with names in three-four days and sought his part's support, PTI reported.

The presidential poll, which is scheduled for 17 July, will conclude on 20 July when the counting of the votes begins. The last date for filing nominations is 28 June, but a candidate can withdraw from the electoral race until 1 July.

With inputs from agencies
Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh): The opposition YSR Congress party in Andhra Pradesh on Monday announced its support to the NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

YSRC president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy announced that his party would support Kovind's candidature for the top post as he was a Dalit leader.

Jagan gave this assurance to BJP chief Amit Shah, when the latter called him over the phone this afternoon seeking the YSRC's support for the ruling coalition's nominee.

Jagan, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi in May, had announced his party would support the NDA's nominee in next month's presidential election.

The YSRC has 10 MPs and 66 MLAs.

The electoral college which elects the president through the system of proportional representation comprises elected MPs and members of legislative assemblies.
Kolkata: Virtually expressing her party's reservation about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, the NDA's pick for the post of president, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Monday claimed that the Bihar Governor was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha in the past.

"There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him," she said in a statement.

"The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate," she added.

"In order to support someone, we must know the person. The candidate should be someone who would be beneficial for the country. The opposition will meet on 22 June, only after that can we announce our decision," the West Bengal chief minister added.

Banerjee left for the Netherlands on Monday to speak on the occasion of UN Public Service Day on 23 June.

She, however, said, "I am not for a moment saying that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit for the post of president. I have spoken to two or three opposition leaders, they too are surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country," she said.

The chief national spokesperson of the TMC, Derek O'Brien, claimed that the party was not informed of Kovind's nomination by the NDA for the post of president.

"The name was announced at a BJP press conference. That's how we got to know. Not even informed (sic)," he wrote on Twitter.
In the run-up to the 15th presidential election scheduled to be held on 17 July, Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) announced Ram Nath Kovind as their Presidential candidate after calling for a Parliamentary board meeting at 12 pm on Monday.

Reactions began to pour in from political parties as BJP named Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit leader, as the NDA's candidate for the post of president.

Among the allies of the BJP, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), TRS, Shiromani Akali Dal, Republican Party of India (RPI), both factions of AIADMK came to show support for the BJP nominee. However, despite being an ally in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena made a stand against BJP's choice for president.

Among the Opposition, CPI, CPM, JDU took no clear stand on the issue. Congress, however, made it clear that they were unhappy with BJP's move to disregard the Opposition in the decision.

Several regional parties either indicated their support or opposition to the NDA's presidential pick. BJD, BSP extended their support to BJP's decision while TMC, All India Trinamool Congress raised concerns over the NDA candidate.

Kovind, a 71-year-old low profile Dalit leader, a two-term BJP Rajya Sabha member, is being seen as an astute choice by the saffron party, which has been targeted by opposition parties over Dalit issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi backed BJP's decision and took to Twitter to extend his support to his Kovind as the Presidential candidate. Modi, however, skipped linking Kovind with his Dalit background and instead vouched for his reputation and dedication to public service.

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmer's son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor & marginalised  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

Sushil Modi spoke for the "well-informed" candidate picked by BJP. Speaking to Times Now, the BJP minister said, "He has all the abilities essential for a good Presidential candidate. They(Opposition) should come forward and support Kovind." Now Nitish & Lalu shud support Bihar Guv Sh Ram Nath Kovid for Presidential candidate.  Sushil Kumar Modi (@SushilModi) June 19, 2017

         NDA             pic.twitter.com/Gic70TVQIn  Sushil Kumar Modi (@SushilModi) June 19, 2017

The ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in Telangana said the party would support NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind. According to a statement from Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Rao over phone and requested his support for the NDA's candidate. The chief minister immediately consulted his party colleagues and conveyed to the prime minister the TRS's "willingness and his willingness" to support the NDA candidate.

Telangana CM and TRS Chief KC Rao extends support to NDA's presidential candidate #RamnathKovind after speaking to PM Modi pic.twitter.com/96UKg5YkKK  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

TRS leader KT Rama Rao also expressed that the party would be supportive of BJP's decision. "When Modi has picked a candidate for President, it is imperative that we extend our support as well. NDA has the numbers. Whatever has to happen is a formality. The decision should be unanimous. This is a popularly-elected government," he said. The RPI, however, appealed to the Opposition to support the candidature of Kovind.

"BJP is always supporting reservation, I appeal the Opposition to support Ram Nath," Ramdas Athavale told Times Now. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Prem Singh Chandumajra also told Times Now that the party accepted Kovind for candidate. "We are partner of NDA, so we will support Ram Nath Kovind," the member of Parliament said. CPI leader

D Raja refused to comment on the announcement. Speaking to Times Now, he said, "In the given situation, we need a person known for his liberal, democratic credentials. Anyway, we will discuss within our party and Opposition. I cannot say anything more than this."

JDU did not take an immediate stand. Nitish Kumar showered praise on Kovind, saying he is "personally glad" over his candidature. However, Kumar was non-committal on whether his JDU will support Kovind.

"It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and Congress President Sonia Gandhi on this issue. We will discuss the issue later and decide," Kumar said.

Also, Sharad Yadav said that the party will take a stand once they having the Opposition meeting.

Opposition ki baithak hogi,usme naam pe vichaar karenge,NDA ne naam announce kiya hai uspe bhi baat karenge: Sharad Yadav,JDU #RamnathKovind pic.twitter.com/NK6EdIpqut  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Shiv Sena refused to take a stand on their reaction to BJP's candidate announcement. Sanjay Raut said on Monday that Sena will convene a meeting to formulate its stand. "No decision has been taken yet.

Amit Shah just called Uddhav Thackeray after the announcement was made. He has asked us for support on BJP's decision on the candidate," he told Times Now. RJD said that the party will only have an opinion after the meeting of the Opposition. "Now BJP has come up with a name, and the Opposition will meet on 22 June. We are collectively making this decision. We should wait for 22 June," RJD spokesperson Manoj Jha told Times Now.

While the NDA welcomed it's decision of having Kovind as the Presidential nominee, Congress criticised the BJP for not informing the Opposition before the announcement. Addressing the media, Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "From the very beginning, Congress was of the opinion that the decision on picking a president will be made collectively to have unanimity. That's why Sonia Gandhi had few weeks ago called arranged a luncheon for 18 parties." Azad slammed the BJP for misleading the Opposition by emphasising on a consensus candidate. "

Unilaterally, what they did, what exercise they had done, was a formality. No name was discussed. It was mostly a PR exercise," he said. If you don't tell us a name how will it be consensus," he said. Azad expressed that the Opposition will talk about the candidate during the meeting fixed for 22 June.

"In that meeting we will take final decision. Till such time,it's not appropriate for me or my colleagues to talk about the candidates," he added. After the NDA made the announcement on Monday, Congress had also asserted they were yet to have a collective opinion. Congress leader Pramod Tiwari had told CNN News18, "The moment they (NDA) give name, we will discuss within ourselves, and then we will express our opinion. The delay in the announcement has been done by NDA. They were supposed to give this name much earlier," the Congress leader told CNN News18. CPM leader Sitaram Yechury was also among the ones looking forward to the Opposition meeting on the 22nd.

Opp parties are meeting on 22nd. Only once in history of independent India has the president of India been elected uncontested: S Yechury pic.twitter.com/Cx1TlbIB62  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress' Mamata Banerjee questioned the relevance of picking Kovind as a candidate.

In order to support someone, we must know the person. Who is this candidate?: WB CM @MamataOfficial on NDA's Presidential Pick pic.twitter.com/LvpxoIWSUd  News18 (@CNNnews18) June 19, 2017

Narendra Modi spoke to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Palaniswami and conveyed that AIADMK was supportive of the decision.

Although BJD refused to comment initially after BJP announced the presidential nominee, BJD leader and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik later expressed that the party supported Kovind as President.

Elaborating the reasons behind BJD's support to the NDA candidate, Patnaik said Ram Nath Kovind is an eminent lawyer belonging to the scheduled caste community.

"The office of the President of India is above political consideration and Biju Janata Dal wants to keep it above the politics," he said.

Stating that the prime minister spoke to him about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, Patnaik said, "He (PM) sought BJD's support in this regard."

Asked whether BJD supported the NDA candidate out of any pressure, party spokesman dismissed it and said "We continue to maintain equal distance from both BJP and Congress. The post of the President of India is above party politics."

UPDATE: #BJD chief & Odisha CM @Naveen_Odisha announces his party's support to #NDA candidate #RamNathKovind in the presidential elections.  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2017

Mayawati, however, stopped short of expressing immediate support for Kovind saying the BSP will be positive provided the Opposition does not field any Dalit for the top post.

"The BSP's stand cannot be negative towards a Dalit nominee for the post of president. Our stand will be positive provided the Opposition does not field any Dalit for the top post," she said here.

The BSP chief, however, said it would have been better if all opposition parties were taken into confidence by the BJP-led NDA at the Centre before announcing the name of its candidate.

Kovind's choice is being seen as a political masterstroke as many parties would not like to oppose a Dalit being elected to the country's highest office.

However, Union minister Venkaiah Naidu, who was a part of the 3-member panel formed by the NDA to seek consensus, slammed the Opposition saying that BJP approached the nomination with an open mind. "Our idea is to have broad consensus. Inspite of having majority, we reached out to minorities," he told Times Now.

He said that the opposition should accept Kovind because of 3 factors: his background, non-controversial nature and strong legal, social background. "I hope the Opposition will support Kovind as President. We went with an open mind. We took all inputs and came up with the name," he told the news channel.

With inputs from PTI
Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday announced his party's support to NDA presidential poll candidate Ram Nath Kovind.

"After discussing with senior party leaders, BJD has decided to support the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind," Patnaik told reporters after receiving a telephone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Elaborating the reasons behind BJD's support to the NDA candidate, Patnaik said Ram Nath Kovind is an eminent lawyer belonging to the scheduled caste community.

"The office of the President of India is above political consideration and Biju Janata Dal wants to keep it above the politics," he said.

Stating that the prime minister spoke to him about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, Patnaik said, "He (prime minister) sought BJD's support in this regard."

"As you know, the last time when presidential elections were held, BJD had proposed the name of PA Sangma, an eminent leader from the tribal community. Based on the request of BJD, many parties including the BJP had supported his nomination," he said.

Asked whether BJD supported the NDA candidate out of any pressure, party spokesman dismissed it and said, "We continue to maintain equal distance from both BJP and Congress. The post of the President of India is above party politics."

Even as several regional parties either indicated their support or opposition to the NDA's presidential pick, Patnaik initially kept everyone guessing as regards to his party's stance on the issue saying he will first discuss the matter with senior party leaders.

Out of the 21 Lok Sabha members of Parliament from Odisha, 20 belong to the BJD. The party has eight members in the Rajya Sabha, besides the support of independent members of Parliament, and 117 MLAs in the state Assembly.
New Delhi: Accusing the BJP of unilateralism, the Congress on Monday said opposition parties will meet on Thursday and decide their strategy regarding the presidential polls.

The Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, refused to go into the merits and demerits of the NDA candidate, Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, announced by BJP president Amit Shah earlier on Monday.

Azad also did not say whether or not the Opposition will field a candidate for the 17 July contest.

"So far as the NDA nominee is concerned, the Congress has nothing to say on the merits or demerits. All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met recently," Azad said.

He said the Opposition did not expect this "unilateral" decision by the BJP to name Kovind.

"When (home minister) Rajnath Singh and (information and broadcasting minister) M Venkaiah Naidu met (Congress president) Sonia Gandhi, we had expected some names from them for discussion. But they gave no names. We had full hope that before announcing they would discuss some names.

"Yes, they did inform us but only after they had decided on the name."

He said the meetings with opposition parties was a formality.

"The only thing I would like to say is that we expected that before taking the final decision on a candidate, they will come back to us and other opposition parties.

"The opposition parties were given to understand that they will be taken into confidence. It is the BJP's sweet will and we cannot help that."

Azad said all leaders in the Opposition had agreed to attend the 22 June meeting to be chaired by Sonia Gandhi to take a final decision on the president's election.
New Delhi: The NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind on Monday expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the 17 July election.

"I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings," Kovind told the media on his arrival in New Delhi from Patna.

Asked whether Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar governor said the Janata Dal-United leader had made a courtesy call.

"As I am the Governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination."

Asked if the Opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: "I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India."

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on "an ordinary citizen".

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of Union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, JP Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination: "It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty."

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had "rich culture, rich traditions and a lot of heritage".
Sometimes it seems all the MSM wants to talk about is the terrorists groups from the right side of the political spectrum. However if one studies the political assassination attempts since WW ll there is not one instance of of a person affiliated with the right being involved.

1950 Truman assassination attempt in front of Blair House. Two Puerto Rican Nationalists were involved.

1954- attack on the house of Representatives, four Puerto Rican Nationalists were involved

1963- JFK assassination. Despite all the talk of right wing hate groups in Dallas he was shot by of all people a pro-Castro Marxist.

1968- RFK assassination, shot by a Palestinian anti-Zion Arab.

1972- George Wallace assassination. Shot by Arthur Brimmer , a loser who studied books on the Kennedy assassinations.

1975- Two assassination attempts on Gerald Ford, both in California by two left wing loons both associated with Charles Manson.

1980- Reagan assassination attempt by a wacko who thought he could impress Jodie Foster.

2017- attack on Republican congressmen by a card carrying Bernie Sanders supporter who loves Rachel Maddow and John Colbert.

There is not one of these events that could even be remotely considered an act of right wing terrorism.

Douglas Jones

Ooltewah

* * *

While I appreciate Doug Jones listing of left wing terrorism in his letter to the editor, I think that he is missing a few important facts when it comes to numbers. He points to attacks on individuals, of which there are none (according to what he sources) between 1980 and 2017. However, just off the top of my head, in that time frame we saw Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols (two right wing extremists) attack the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma, City in 1995, killing 168 and injuring around 680 others, and Dylan Roof, a white supremacist, who murdered nine people in Charleston because of the color of their skin on June 17, 2015.

None of this is acceptable by anyone with an ounce of common sense or decency. Why dont we just stop the finger pointing about atrocities and just condemn them without regard to the source.

Wayne Cook

Chattanooga

* * *

I find it hilarious that there are exactly three posts on Chattanoogan today that are clearly trying to score political points off a bunch of injured congressmen. Mr. Jones's boils down to this: "Let me take a handpicked list of events, filter out any of them that make my side look bad and then conclude that not one of those events is an example of right wing terrorism.

There have been many, many acts of right wing terror. No one is saying that any of these acts, no matter what side, are good. We are doing that aren't we?

Mr. Jones's letter is a textbook example of a concept known as Whataboutism, found on wikipedia.

It's very difficult to argue a point with someone when they're always saying, "Well...what about this...". I'm not saying that Mr. Jones uses this rhetoric device because he's a Republican, but it is very interesting that this technique was first employed by the Soviet Union.

R.J. Mitchell

Chattanooga

* * *

Just imagine if a comedian held up a decapitated head of Obama or Broadway play assassination of Obama ? You are spot on, Douglas Jones.

Donnie Covey

* * *

I love how selective and forgetful the memories of the right-wingers are when it comes to the last eight years. There were so many images of President Obama being lynched, set ablaze, etc. There were horrible comments every day about Mrs. Obama and the girls. The whole birtherism debacle, the ISIS membership, and on and on. I guess that was okay because Obama was not rich and white. Since Trump is white, he's untouchable. Well, he's not.

He and his cronies are a disaster. If you think for one red hot second that Trump is good, decent, honest, etc., you are delusional and need to get your head out of the sand. Best do it quickly before you lose your tax breaks and your health care.

Richard Smith
Kanpur: It is celebration time for the residents of the nondescript Maharishi Dayanand Vihar colony in Kalyanpur as one among them  Ram Nath Kovind  was rather unexpectedly announced on Monday as the ruling NDA's presidential candidate.

Since the moment Kovind's name was announced in New Delhi, scores of BJP workers, especially those associated with the Kalyanpur Vypar Mandal descended in Kanpur with crackers and sweets, dancing to drum beats.

Kovind, the 71-year-old BJP veteran, who rose from a modest background to become the Governor of Bihar and is now, in all likelihood, set to occupy the country's highest constitutional office.

Associates and neighbours in Maharishi Dayanand Vihar remember Kovind as a simple, soft spoken person who has maintained relations with those who have been with him.

"He comes from modest background and has achieved heights sheerly through his hard work and dedication...He did LLB and had also appeared for the civil services exam but had to opt out due to medical reasons," Ashok Trivedi, who served as the two-time MP's PRO from 1996 to 2008, told PTI.

According to Trivedi, Kovind is a man of simple tastes.

"His likings are simple. He likes simple food and is not very fond of sweets. He has stayed in touch with all of us. He last visited my home in 2012 after coming to know of my wife's death," Trivedi recalled.

The presidential nominee, along with his wife Savita, visited this colony almost one-and-a-half month ago.

Kusuma Rathore, in her sixties, has been the caretaker of Kovind's modest mini-HIG house for the past 15 years.

Kovind's two children, a son and daughter, are both married and well settled, she says, adding that during his visits here he has generally been staying either at the circuit house or some other government accommodation.

The residence of the man, who is likely to be the next president of India, does not exhibit signs of power or wealth. Only a simple nameplate that would let a passerby know that it belongs to Ram Nath Kovind, an MP.

Next door neighbour Devendra Juneja is a long time associate who went to the 'RSS shakha' with Kovind.

"It is a big day for me and for all those who had known Kovind...He is a very down to earth person and has always been concerned about all those around him," Juneja said.

In Paraukh, Kovind's native village, located in the Jhinjhak area of Kanpur Dehat, fire crackers were burst and sweets distributed.

Kovind's niece Hemlata, a teacher in a government school, says, "I had met him in Patna about 10 days ago but till then there was no such thing to our notice..It is a matter of pride that our uncle will be the president."
New Delhi: Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Ram Vilas Paswan on Monday extended full support to the NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He also asked opposition parties to support the Dalit candidate, claiming that if they put up a candidate against Kovind then they would be seen as "anti-Dalit".

"This is an historic decision. The Opposition should support the NDA candidate, rising above politics. If they don't support, it would mean they are anti-dalits," Paswan told reporters in New Delhi.

If opposition parties field a Dalit against Kovind, then it will be nothing but 'vote-katva' (aimed at denting support to Kovind) politics, noted the LJP leader who is also a BJP ally.

Paswan said that the LJP extends full support to the NDA candidate, who has been a Rajya Sabha MP twice, headed the SC/ST Morcha and has all qualifications to hold the presidential post.

"The choice of Kovind is a political masterstroke by Modiji. Every political party has its agenda. It is a slap on those parties who claim they work for dalits but in reality have not done anything for the community," Paswan added.

Paswan resumed his office on Monday after a fortnight leave taken to undergo heart surgery in London. In his absence, Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh had taken additional charge of the food ministry.
At a public meeting at Hyderabad's Lal Bahadur stadium in August last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made an impassioned plea in the wake of incidents of violence against Dalits.

"If you have a problem, if you feel like attacking someone, attack me, not my Dalit brothers. If you want to shoot anyone, shoot me, not my Dalit brothers,'' he had declared. It was then seen as a strange offensive because those attacking the Dalits were not his opponents but members of the extended Sangh Parivar.

In fact, just before Modi came to Hyderabad, a BJP MLA from the city, Raja Singh had praised those who had assaulted the Dalits in Una, Gujarat. In a video message on Facebook, he called those Dalits "galeez" (filthy) who indulge in cow slaughter. Justifying the act of the cow vigilante groups, Singh had said, "Those Dalits who were taking the cow, the cow meat, those who were beaten, it was a very good thing to happen.'' As a reprimand for those politically incorrect remarks, Singh was not allowed on the dais when Modi spoke.

The year 2016 had also seen the BJP-Dalit relationship deteriorating after University of Hyderabad scholar Rohith Vemula, whose caste certificates at that time showed him to be a Dalit, committed suicide in January. The ABVP and Union labour minister Bandaru Dattatreya found themselves in the cross hairs of incidents that had led Vemula to take the extreme step. Several Opposition parties had latched on to the Dalit-led protest that acquired a sharp anti-BJP narrative.

Is the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind a belated attempt to reach out to the Dalit community, to assuage hurt sentiments? While it can be debated if Kovind has the credentials to gain entry to Raisina Hills, it is his Dalit identity that the BJP is showcasing as his calling card. It was stressed upon when Modi and Amit Shah called up the chief ministers and leaders of other supporting parties to drum up support. It ensured none of the leaders, even if they harboured any doubts, could say no as opposing a Dalit candidate would be seen as politically incorrect. In that sense, it is a political masterstroke.

Kovind is a lawyer by training and has headed the BJP's Dalit cell in the past. He has also worked as OSD to Morarji Desai and is known to keep a low-profile person. He does not ruffle feathers, in the manner many Dalit leaders have done, by indulging in name-calling to emphasise the caste divide. In fact, before he was made the Bihar Governor in 2015, he was seen as one of the more scholarly and liberal faces of the BJP, even though that did not take him far within the party hierarchy.

The selection of Kovind is an important political messaging by the BJP, especially in the cow belt. It will be showcased as part of the 'sabka saath, sabka vikas' template. That by appointing a member of the Dalit community to the top constitutional post, all is well.

A similar attempt was made in 1997 when KR Narayanan was elected as president. Despite his credentials as a diplomat of great stature, the then prime minister IK Gujral made it seem his only identity was that of a Dalit. On 15 August, 1997, Gujral said during his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort: "When Gandhi ji dreamt of India's future, he had said that the country will attain real freedom only on the day when a Dalit would become the president of this country. This is our great fortune that today on the eve of the golden jubilee of Independence, we have been able to fulfill this dream of Gandhi ji. In the person of KR Narayanan, we have been able to fulfill the dream of Gandhi ji.''

It would indeed be wonderful if Kovind's ascent to Rashtrapati Bhavan ushers in a more tolerant attitude towards Dalits in India. But it would be myopic to miss the politics in the decision. The choice of Kovind is a political acknowledgement by the BJP that the party is seen as an upper caste outfit. The party would like to be seen now as having taken a pro-Dalit position.

"It is part of the BJP's desperate attempt to appropriate the Ambedkar legacy,'' says VS Krishna, human rights activist. "It can be looked as a victory of Dalit assertion but I would imagine those who are at the forefront of Dalit struggles will not be impressed by symbolism of this sort.''

Take the example of Tamil Nadu. The AIADMK will support the NDA candidate but will it do anything to stop the honour killings that take place in the state. Between 2013 and 2016, 81 incidents of honour killings were reported in Tamil Nadu. Dalit families are pummelled into silence and submission after their son is killed because he dared to love and marry an upper caste girl. In most cases, the perpetrators are the Thevars and the Gounders who form the political and financial backbone of the ruling party. Will Kovind through his presidency be able to effect the change on the ground?

Dalit rights activist Kancha Ilaiah says even if it is a token gesture, having a Dalit president in these times of friction is good for the nation. "When attacks on Dalits happen despite having a Dalit president, Kovind will be under pressure to take a stand. Dalits can represent to him, there will be a connect,'' says Ilaiah. He points out that with this decision, the BJP has blunted the criticism that it did not push Dalits into positions of prominence unlike the Congress that gave the country a Dalit president, home minister and Lok Sabha Speaker.

In that sense, Kovind's candidature is less Pratibha Patil and more Giani Zail Singh. In 1982, the then prime minister Indira Gandhi decided to make her home minister Zail Singh, the Congress party's presidential candidate. This was in the backdrop of the turmoil in Punjab and she thought the symbolism of a Sikh president will make the community happy. It is part of recorded contemporary history that whatever points Indira Gandhi managed to score in assuaging the community, was undone by not keeping Zail Singh in the loop about Operation Bluestar as part of which the army stormed the Golden Temple. Zail Singh was reduced to a sad parody of a president in the midst of all the upheaval around him, emotionally distraught at the assault on his faith.
Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit, is likely to be the next President of India.

He is the ruling NDA's candidate for the 17 July presidential election and will file his nomination by June 23. Since the ruling dispensation already has over 55 percent of the total votes of the Electoral College, Kovind's elevation as head of the state is a certainty.

Kovind's name has made fissures in the Congress-led Opposition ranks with BSP chief Mayawati and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar indicating that they would support Kovind's candidature.

By announcing Kovind's name as NDA presidential candidate, Narendra Modi and Amit Shah have yet again reminded that they are a master of surprises, expect the unexpected from them. They have proved that all the media speculations and the so called "informed" private talks among the senior leaders and ministers to be wrong after all Kovind's name was nowhere on the radar when speculations were rife.

Not just the name of the presidential candidate, the timing of the announcement too contained an element of surprise. Among the party circles, it was believed that the announcement would be made on 22 June, a day before the presidential candidate was expected to file nomination papers, as the prime minister is supposed to leave for his US trip on 24 June.

Modi-Shah advanced the date of parliamentary board meeting, the BJP's highest decision making body to make the final call.

Moreover, Kovind's proposed elevation to the Rashtrapati Bhawan reaffirms that unlike the dynastic parties, in BJP, anyone can rise to the highest position, irrespective of his/her social background. A chaiwala can become a prime minister, an ordinary worker can rise to the post of the party president and an unsung Dalit can be considered for the post of the president.

Until 16 August, 2015, when Kovind assumed office of the Bihar governor ahead of the Assembly election, it was seen as an attempt to tell the Bihar electorate that the BJP cared for the poor and the Dailts. He had kept a low profile while stationed at the BJP headquarters  11 Ashoka Road in New Delhi. Kovind belongs to the Koli community, a Dalit sub-caste family, and was born in Paraunkha village in Derapur tehsil, in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur district. He has risen through the ranks with hard work. He was a lawyer, BJP's Dalit morcha chief and two-term Rajya Sabha MP. He is well conversant with parliamentary and constitutional practices. As Bihar governor, Kovind has been non-controversial and has maintained a cordial relation with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

On 18 August, 2015, in Bihar's Ara, during a foundation-laying ceremony of a Rs 9,700-crore project for 11 National Highways, Kovind, the newly-appointed Bihar governor, shared the dais with the Bihar chief minister. Also present was Modi, who introduced Kovind in his characteristic eloquent style, heaping praises on him. "I felicitate, welcome new governor Ram Nath Kovind ji. He is one person who dedicated his entire life for the upliftment of the Dalit, the poor, the deprived and the backward people. Kovind ji is a kind of person who will always be available to serve the people of Bihar," he had said.

Nobody would have guessed that in less than two years, Kovind would be assigned a much bigger role.

Kovind filled the criteria on three counts  first, he is a grassroots party leader, actively associated with the BJP since 1977 when the then Jan Sangh (erstwhile avatar of the BJP) was a constituent of the Janata Party. With full majority in Parliament and ruling 17 Indian states (14 on its own and remaining in alliance), having already secured 55 percent of the Electoral College votes, Modi-Shah and the rest of the Sangh Parivar leadership were keen to have their own party leader as president. The BJP-RSS had someone from the party ranks as vice-president (Bhairon Singh Shekhawat) and twice as prime minister (Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi) but so far had not succeeded in getting its own president.

If Kovind succeeds Pranab Mukherjee as president, it will create a fresh chapter in the BJP-RSS history.

Kovind's choice as president is sure to break ranks of Opposition parties. The Opposition unity, as envisaged by Sonia Gandhi, is under serious threat of cracking. Nitish, who happens to be the most prominent leader in the Opposition, termed Kovind's proposed elevation as a matter of personal happiness and pride for Bihar.

Nitish had a telephonic conversation with Sonia and Lalu Prasad Yadav and he conveyed them of his personal satisfaction and happiness. It would be difficult for Sonia as the president of Congress party to oppose the candidature of a Dalit. Any move to oppose Kovind's candidature would not go down well with the community as the party's base among the Dalit voters might erode further. Lalu's RJD will be in no better position.

BSP chief Mayawati would also face a similar dilemma. Can she afford to oppose a Dalit, that too someone who is from UP, to occupy the highest constitutional post? The problem for her is that the BJP has already made inroads in the Dalit constituency and this latest move will further hit her position as the leader of the Dalits.

Mayawati though expressed some reservations on Kovind's nomination and extended conditional support to him, unless the Opposition puts up another Dalit candidate with better credentials than Kovind.

Samajwadi Party too has been put in a tight spot. Mulayam Singh Yadav or his son Akhilesh Yadav would think twice before opposing someone from their homestate.

K Chandrashekher Rao, chief minister of Telangana, has announced support of his party TRS after a telephonic conversation with Modi. YSR Congress chief Jagan Mohan Reddy has already pledged his support. Both factions of the AIADMK are expected to be on board. So is Naveen Patnaik's BJD.

The media conference addressed by Ghulam Nabi Azad clearly suggested that Congress has been stumped by the Modi-Shah googly called Ram Nath Kovind  UPA 3 already cracking on drawing board.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswamy on Monday told the state assembly that a case has been registered against the persons who allegedly indulged in bribing voters in the RK Nagar by-elections.

Palaniswamy said the case has been registered as per the Election Commission's directive.

He was responding to the DMK members who raised the issue about the poll panel's directive to the Returning Officer of RK Nagar assembly constituency to register a First Information Report (FIR) against Palaniswamy, four Ministers and the AIADMK candidate TTV Dinakaran.

However, Palaniswamy did not disclose the name of the persons against whom the FIR was registered.

Not satisfied with the reply, the DMK members walked out of the house and were followed by Congress lawmakers.

DMK leader MK Stalin on Sunday flayed the "delay in filing an Election Commission recommended" criminal case against Palaniswamy and the Ministers.

PMK leader S Ramadoss demanded the resignation of Palaniswamy and the Ministers under a cloud so that the investigation in the case could progress in a proper fashion.

The Election Commission had ordered the Returning Officer of the RK Nagar assembly constituency where the by-election was scheduled to be held but was later cancelled to file an FIR against Palaniswamy, four Ministers and party candidate Dinakaran on the charge of attempting to bribe voters, Stalin said in a statement.

He said the poll panel had also sent a 34-page report by the Income Tax Department to the state Chief Electoral Officer and the Chief Secretary.

He said the Election Commission's order for lodging a police complaint was obtained from the poll panel by an applicant under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

Stalin said the delay in registering a complaint was nothing but disrespect to the Election Commission, a constitutional body.

Asked by IANS on Sunday whether a FIR was lodged against Palaniswamy and others as directed by the Election Commission, CEO Rajesh Lakhani was evasive.

He said over 30 complaints have been registered by police for alleged electoral malpractices.

Ahead of the by-election to the RK Nagar constituency, the Income Tax Department had raided the residences and business premises of Health Minister C Vijayabaskar, his relatives as well as persons close to him and his business associates.

An Income Tax official then told IANS that they had seized cash totalling Rs 5.5 crore besides documents showing that Rs 89 crore changed hands in RK Nagar.

Subsequently, the Election Commission cancelled the by-election for the seat that fell vacant after the death of then Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in December 2016.
Mumbai: Virtually accusing the BJP of playing Dalit vote bank politics, the Shiv Sena on Monday said if the ally had put forth Ram Nath Kovind's name merely to capture the community's votes, it would not support him.

"If they have declared Kovind's name for getting Dalit votes, then we are not interested. The Shiv Sena has always kept away from such vote-bank politics," said Uddhav Thackeray at a rally to mark the party's 51st foundation day celebrations.

He added that if the next President proves to be beneficial for all the people of the country and not just Dalits, "then make anybody. We will openly support".

However, he said a final decision on the BJP candidate would be taken at a meeting of party leaders here scheduled for Tuesday.

Harping on the party's pet names  RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and agro-scientist MS Swaminathan  Thackeray said Bhagwat was proposed as India is a Hindu nation, but the country has lost a good opportunity by ignoring him.

"If anybody had reservations about Bhagwat, then we suggested Swaminathan for the benefit of the farmers of the country. We are always standing solidly behind the farming community," said Thackeray.

Earlier this afternoon, Sena MP Sanjay Raut said BJP President Amit Shah called up Thackeray only after announcing Kovind as its candidate for the 17 July election, hinting the party was not taken into confidence beforehand.

"Shah informed him (Thackeray) about the BJP choice and also sought the Shiv Sena's support for Kovind's candidature," Raut said.

The oldest and most prominent ally of the BJP, Thackeray told Shah on Sunday that his party would take a decision only after the BJP's Presidential nominee was named.

On two occasions in the past, the Shiv Sena had deviated from the NDA line by supporting UPA candidates: in 2007 when Pratibha Patil won the election and in 2012 when incumbent Pranab Mukherjee was elected.

On the first occasion, Sena supremo Bal Thackeray had thrown his lot behind Patil on grounds that she was the first Maharashtrian and a woman to occupy the top constitutional post.

Patil defeated NDA candidate and Vice President BS Shekhawat.

In 2012, Mukherjee personally called up and later met Thackeray soliciting his support, which the Sena chief offered, going against the BJP-supported NDA candidate, PA Sangma.

This time round, the Sena stance on Kovind's candidature would be considered crucial as it is a partner both at the Centre and in Maharashtra.
By Idrissa Sangare and Adama Diarra

| BAMAKO

BAMAKO A new alliance of Islamist militant groups linked to al Qaeda on Monday claimed responsibility for an attack that killed at least five people at a Mali luxury resort popular with Western expatriates just outside the capital Bamako.The assailants stormed the hotel on Sunday afternoon, opening fire on guests and battling with French and Malian special forces deployed to try to free those trapped inside.Mali's Security Ministry said in a statement late on Monday that four of the dead were guests and one was a local soldier who died in the firefight.The nationalities of the dead were a French-Malian, a French-Gabonese, a Chinese, a Portuguese and a Malian soldier, the ministry said. The European Union's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, confirmed that two of the dead were working for its mission there. Although the attackers succeeded in mounting a lethal assault, security forces backed by French and United Nations troops managed to rescue around 60 residents in two batches on Sunday night, including 13 French citizens and several children.Some survived thanks to a hotel cashier who led them to a cave embedded in the red-earth hillside near the hotel, according to an interview he gave to Radio France International (RFI)."This was without doubt a terrorist attack," Security Minister Salif Traore told RFI on Monday.

His ministry's statement added that authorities had killed four attackers and arrested five others.Earlier in the day, Traore said some of the militants' accomplices were still at large. Several security forces were still being treated for serious injuries.DESERT NORTH

French troops and a 10,000-strong U.N. peacekeeping force have been battling to stabilise Mali, a former French colony, ever since France intervened in 2013 to push back jihadists and allied Tuareg rebels who had taken over the country's desert north a year earlier.

The alliance that claimed the attack, Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen, was created earlier this year from a merger of local groups and is led by a notorious Tuareg commander. It was later endorsed by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb.Islamist groups have claimed increasingly frequent attacks on Western targets in Mali and the wider West Africa region, including a raid on a Bamako hotel in late 2015 which killed 20 people. But analysts said security forces appeared to have responded more quickly this time than in previous such attacks."One thing is sure: They are becoming more responsive," said Adam Thiam, a Malian analyst and expert on the conflict. He said this was partly because an elite counterterrorism unit was now properly up and running.

"They're specialised in this kind of operation," he said. French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after the attack and pledged his country's full support for the country, Macron's office said on Monday."France condemns with utmost firmness this murderous attack," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.The African Union condemned the attack and reiterated its commitment to support Mali in combating terrorism.Earlier this month, the United States warned its citizens about a possible increased threat of attacks against places popular with Westerners."I am tired, shocked. I have no other words to say," the resort owner Manou Morgane, a French national, told Reuters TV overnight. "All I want to do is to see the list of my clients. I want to find them (anyone missing)." (Additional reporting by Andrei Khalip in Lisbon and Tim Cocks in Dakar; Writing by Tim Cocks and Emma Farge; editing by Jonathan Oatis)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Beirut: An American fighter jet has for the first time downed a Syrian warplane that Washington accused of attacking US-backed fighters, in a new escalation between the United States and regime forces.

The incident further complicates the country's six-year war and comes as a US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Government ally Iran also on Sunday launched missiles from its territory against alleged Islamic State positions in eastern Syria for the first time, in response to an Islamic State-claimed attack in Tehran.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, but warn that the risks are high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields.

The Syrian jet was shot down Sunday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against Islamic State, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7 pm as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces".

Syria's army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while "conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group."

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Regime ally Moscow also condemned the downing of the Syrian plane, with deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov saying: "This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law. What is this if not an act of aggression?"

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital. It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syria's eastern border.
London: Ireland's first Indian-origin Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Monday met his United Kingdom counterpart Theresa May for bilateral talks during his first visit to 10 Downing Street amid political uncertainty in Britain.

The Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) said Ireland was not in favour of an economic border between the two countries following Brexit.

"While there will be a political border between our two countries, there should not be an economic one and any border that does exist should be invisible," Varadkar said following his talks with May.

He also offered condolences on behalf of the Irish people and the Irish government to all those affected by the recent tragedies in London.

"Everyone in Ireland knows someone, a friend or a relative, who lives in London. When there is an attack on London, we in Ireland feel it is almost an attack on us as well," Varadkar said.

May also expressed the hope that Britain's exit from the European Union (EU) would not impact relations with EU-member country Ireland.

"No one wants to see trade between our two countries diminished. I remain committed to finding a practical solution to the land border in Northern Ireland after Brexit," she said.

In one of his first major bilateral visits, the Irish Taoiseach said he had also been "very reassured" by the Conservative party's proposed agreement with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and its feared impact on the impartiality of the British and Irish governments in the region.

In a joint press conference at Downing Street, he said as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, the British and Irish governments should not be too close to unionism or nationalism.

The ruling Tories need the backing of the 10 DUP MPs to form its minority government following a hung Parliament verdict in the 8 June snap general election.

"I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom," Varadkar said on Monday prior to his first visit to Downing Street.

"Among other things, we will discuss Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved government and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens on trade and the economy," said Varadkar, an Indian-origin doctor and the Dublin-born son of Mumbai-born Ashok Varadkar and Irish mother Miriam.

There has been political uncertainty in the United Kingdom as some media reports claimed that May has "10 days to save her job" as some of her party lawmakers are secretly plotting her ouster.

After her flawed decision to call a snap general election saw the Conservatives lose their narrow majority earlier this month, May has now come under fire for her lacklustre response to the Grenfell Tower fire disaster.
Brussels: Britain starts formal talks to leave the European Union on Monday, seeking a deal "like no other in history" despite entering fiendishly difficult negotiations with a badly weakened government. A year after Britain's seismic referendum, Brexit minister David Davis and the European Union's French chief negotiator Michel Barnier will meet at the European Commission in Brussels.

At stake in hugely complex talks that are expected to conclude by March 2019 is not just Britain's future but a western political order that would be badly shaken by a failure to reach a deal.

But the situation is very different from 12 months ago when the Brexiteers were riding high, with Prime Minister Theresa May's entire approach called into question after a disastrous election performance on 8 June.

"While there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear  a deep and special partnership between the United Kingdom and the European Union. A deal like no other in history," Davis said in a statement as he headed into the talks. "I look forward to beginning work on that new future."

Britain already appears to have capitulated to the European Union's insistence that talks first focus on three key divorce issues, before moving onto the future EU-UK relationship and a possible trade deal.

Those issues are Britain's exit bill, estimated by Brussels at around 100 billion ($112 billion), the rights of three million EU nationals living in Britain and one million Britons on the continent, and the status of the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"Sitting down for a first formal negotiation round is something in and of itself," an EU source told AFP. Talks will begin at 0900 GMT with a joint press conference by former French foreign minister and European commissioner Barnier and Davis at around 1630 GMT.

Worried by immigration and loss of sovereignty, Britain voted last year to end its four-decades-old membership of the 28-country bloc  the first state ever to do so  in a shock referendum result. An increasingly concerned EU has been pushing London to hurry up, with time running out for a deal and three months already passed since May triggered the two-year Article 50 EU exit process.

Threats by Britain to walk away without a deal have also worried European capitals. Today's talks however are likely to focus on the practical details of timings for the coming months, with the big, divisive issues left aside for now, officials said.

May herself will also have a chance to update the other 27 EU leaders on her Brexit plans at a summit in Brussels on Thursday. "The best way we can spend this week is to rebuild trust," another European source said.

Amid reports that May is set to make a "generous offer" on the rights of EU citizens remaining in Britain, the source said London had been warned against doing so this week, on the grounds that it could drag up the thorny issue before talks had really got going.

Yet many in Brussels fear that London has no real strategy, with May under pressure at home, still trying to close a deal with a conservative Northern Ireland party to stay in power, and facing criticism for her handling of the aftermath of a devastating tower block fire.
By Alastair Macdonald and Elizabeth Piper

| BRUSSELS

BRUSSELS Britain's negotiators came to Brussels seeking a "new, deep and special partnership with the European Union" on Monday as talks on the unprecedented British withdrawal from the bloc finally got under way.A beaming Brexit Secretary David Davis, a veteran campaigner against EU membership, told a sombre Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator, that his team aimed to maintain a "positive and constructive tone" during "challenging" talks ahead in the hope of reaching a deal that was in the interests of both sides.A year after Britons shocked the continent by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main export market, new debate within Prime Minister Theresa May's cabinet on precisely what kind of trading relationship to pursue has perplexed EU leaders, who warn time is tight to agree terms before Britain leaves in 2019."We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit," said Barnier, a former French minister, as he greeted Davis at the European Commission's Berlaymont Building headquarters.Those were, he said, the rights of expatriate citizens and problems of a new EU-UK border, notably cutting across Ireland. He did not mention a third EU priority - that Britain settle a bill of tens of billions of euros before it leaves in 21 months.That financial issue is already a bone of contention, as is Brussels' refusal to discuss a new free trade deal until after it is resolved. May, whose future is uncertain after she lost her Conservative majority in an election this month, has insisted that trade talks start immediately and run in parallel.While Barnier insists on the "sequencing" of talks, so that trade negotiations cannot start until probably January, finding a way to avoid a "hard" customs border for troubled Northern Ireland may well involve some earlier discussion of the matter.

A bigger problem may be for British negotiators to resolve what trade relationship they want. While "Brexiteers" like Davis have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties."SPECIAL PARTNERSHIP"

The bloc has expanded steadily since first formed as the European Economic Community in 1957 by France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxemburg. It currently numbers 28 members. Never before has a country sought to leave.

Davis, noting shared security threats for governments across Europe hours after a van rammed worshippers at a London mosque, said: "There is more that unites us than divides us."We are ... determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves, our European allies and friends."Officials on both sides played down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.Before lunching on Belgian asparagus, red mullet and meringue cake, the two exchanged gifts that homed in on a shared love of hiking: Davis received a walking stick from Barnier's native Savoy Alps and Barnier a first edition of a French mountaineer's Himalayan memoir - "Regards vers Annapurna".

Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe May's government may at last be coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.After Davis and Barnier met over lunch in the Commission's top floor dining rooms, their teams broke up into "working groups" that will be charged with handling specific areas of talks that the EU expects to take place for a week every month.Barnier said he was hoping to have a clearer timetable by the end of the day. He has said a divorce deal should be ready by October next year to give time for parliamentary approval. With or without a deal, Britain will be out of the EU on March 30, 2019. EU leaders want May to lay off threats that she would walk out and leave a chaotic legal limbo for all Europeans.But EU leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to quit.When 52 percent of British voters opted for Brexit, some feared for the survival of a Union battered by the euro crisis and divided in its response to chaotic immigration. The election of the fervently europhile Macron, and his party's sweep of the French parliament on Sunday, has revived optimism in Brussels. (Editing by Janet Lawrence)

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Cairo: A shadowy militant group in Egypt that is suspected of links to the banned Muslim Brotherhood has claimed responsibility for a deadly roadside bombing in Cairo on Sunday.

The authorities say the explosion in the Egyptian capital's upscale suburb of Maadi, home to many foreigners and diplomats, was remotely detonated. One police officer was killed and four others were wounded.

The Hasm militant group says in a statement released on Monday that "members of the security forces are legitimate targets" since they have shed "the blood of peaceful demonstrators."

It says the bombing was also a protest against parliament's move to transfer two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia. Hasm accuses the government of "selling the homeland."

The group has previously claimed several smaller attacks, mainly targeting policemen.
By Michel Rose and Marine Pennetier

| PARIS

PARIS A driver rammed a car carrying weapons and explosives into a police van as it drove down Paris' Champs Elysees avenue on Monday, officials said, adding that the man died in the incident and the situation was under control.The car hit the front of the van as it was overtaking a convoy of police vehicles, a police spokeswoman said. Footage recorded shortly afterwards showed orange smoke billowing from the car.France has been on high security alert following a series of militant Islamist attacks in recent years, including the shooting of a policeman in an Islamic State-claimed attack on a police bus on the Champs Elysees in April.

The Paris prosecutor's counter-terrorism unit said an investigation had been opened into the incident only a short walk away from the Elysee presidential palace and the U.S. embassy. No bystanders or police were hurt. It was not clear how the driver of the car had died.Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said the man's car was carrying weapons and explosives that could have caused a blast.

"This once again shows that the threat level in France is extremely high," Collomb told journalists not far from the scene.A police source told Reuters that the man was known to security services.

President Emmanuel Macron said last month his government would ask parliament to extend wider search and arrest powers granted under a state of emergency called after Islamist gunmen and suicide bombers killed 130 people in and around Paris in November 2015.Some magistrates and human rights groups have protested in recent weeks against the proposal that would enshrine in ordinary law measures currently in place under the state of emergency. (Additional reporting by Ingrid Melander and Emmanuel Jarry; Writing by Leigh Thomas; Editing by Andrew Callus and Ralph Boulton)

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A Chinese naval fleet held a scheduled military exercise with the Russian navy in St Petersburg and Kaliningrad on Sunday in the first of planned exercises this year to strengthen their cooperation, state news agency Xinhua reported.

The "Joint Sea-2017" exercise follows similar ones held last year, and more exercises will be held in late July in the Baltic Sea, and in mid-September in the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk, it added.

The Chinese fleet, which sailed out from Hainan province in southern China, consisted of the missile destroyer Changsha, missile frigate Yuncheng, a comprehensive supply ship, ship-borne helicopters and marines, it said.

China and Russia are veto-wielding members of the UN Security Council, and have held similar views on many major issues such as the crisis in Syria, often putting them at odds with the United States and Western Europe.

They have previously held naval drills in the fiercely-contested South China Sea which China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have rival claims over.

Xinhua said the theme of this year's drills was "joint rescue and protection of maritime economic activities".
Bogota: Colombia's leaders and main rebel groups pledged that a mall bombing that killed three women would not disrupt the country's peace process, even as authorities scrambled to find out who was behind the carnage.

The victims  two Colombians and a French woman  perished when a device exploded in a ladies' restroom in the crowded Andino shopping center in Bogota on Saturday. At least nine people were also wounded, officials said.

President Juan Manuel Santos called the incident a terrorist attack.

Rebel groups condemned the blast and said it was an attempt to undermine their efforts with the government to end Colombia's half-century civil conflict.

Police said the explosion occurred at about 5.00 pm (local time) on Saturday, sending people running for their lives.

"There was a strong boom and the floor shook," said shop worker Milena Carcenas. "There was smoke coming out of the bathroom. People were coming out of there covered in ash."

National police chief General Jorge Nieto told reporters "a device" was placed "behind one of the toilets in the women's bathroom."

Authorities have "three concrete hypotheses" on the perpetrators, Santos said Sunday after meeting with investigators, but declined to elaborate to avoid harming the probe.

There was a 100 million peso (about $33,000) reward for "anyone who can give us information to help capture those responsible," he said.

The explosion comes at a delicate time for Colombia's historic peace process.

The country's biggest rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), is scheduled to complete its disarmament by Tuesday.

The last active rebel force, the National Liberation Army (ELN), meanwhile, has started talks with the government, though confrontations with state forces have been continuing.

"Those who want to rain on the peace parade will not succeed," said Santos, who won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for sealing an accord with FARC leaders.

"If this (bombing) is that kind of gesture, then rest assured that we will pursue those enemies of peace without rest and without quarter," he said, speaking at the site of the blast.

Santos, who canceled a planned trip to Portugal so that he could lead investigative efforts, urged Colombians to continue their normal lives and enjoy the Father's Day holiday.

The peace deal was initially narrowly rejected by Colombians in a referendum, with critics saying it was too lenient on the FARC.

A redrafted agreement from Santos and the FARC has since been pushed through congress. Bogota mayor Enrique Penalosa called Saturday's incident "a cowardly terrorist attack."

He said the French woman who died, aged 23, had spent six months working in a school in a poor neighborhood.

The Leftist ELN said on Twitter it "condemns this deplorable incident," noting that the attack was "against civilians." "We share the pain and stand in solidarity with the victims," the group wrote. "The state should investigate thoroughly to identify those responsible." The leader of the communist-inspired FARC, Rodrigo Londono  known as Timochenko  also denounced the explosion.

"This act can only come from those who want to close the roads of peace and reconciliation," he wrote on Twitter.

The blast was the second major attack this year in the Colombian capital.

In February, the ELN claimed responsibility for a bombing at a bullring in Bogota, which killed a police officer and wounded more than 20 people.

Colombia's civil conflict erupted in 1964 over land rights. It drew in Leftist guerrillas, right-wing paramilitary groups and state forces.

Analyst Victor de Currea-Logo of Colombia's National University said it was unlikely either of the Leftist groups involved in the peace drive would have carried out the attack. But he told AFP: "There are some far-right paramilitary-style groups who have been responsible for killing civil leaders and for actions against the peace effort." Efforts to disrupt the process, however, is unlikely, he said, citing public support for peace.
Havana: Cuba's foreign minister has rejected President Donald Trump's new policy toward the island, saying "we will never negotiate under pressure or under threat" and refusing to return US fugitives who have received asylum in Cuba.

In a hard-edged response to the policy announced Friday, foreign minister Bruno Rodriguez said from Vienna on Monday that Trump's restrictions on transactions with the Cuban military would not achieve their objective of weakening the government. He said they would instead create unity behind the communist leadership.

He described fugitives such as Joanne Chesimard, a black militant convicted of the murder of a New Jersey state trooper, as political refugees who had received asylum from the Cuban government and would not be returned because the US has no "legal or moral basis" to demand their return.
Washington: President Donald Trump's personal lawyer said on Sunday that Trump is not under investigation in the probe into alleged Russian meddling in the 2016 US presidential race, a statement that appeared to contradict a comment Trump himself made on Twitter last week.

Jay Sekulow, a lawyer who is part of a team hired by Trump to deal with allegations of collusion by his campaign with Moscow, made the rounds on Sunday talk shows to cast doubt on media reports citing unnamed sources  and to add nuance to a straightforward claim Trump made on Friday that he was under investigation.

"The fact of the matter is the president has not been and is not under investigation," Sekulow said on CBS' "Face the Nation"  in one of four interviews he gave on Sunday  adding that the president has not received any notification that he is being investigated.

On Friday, Trump had tweeted: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt."

Trump, who has denied any collusion between his campaign and Russia, has frequently lashed out about the allegations, which have overshadowed his administration's efforts to overhaul the healthcare system, cut taxes and boost jobs.

Robert Mueller, the special counsel named by the Justice Department to probe the Russia matter, is investigating whether anyone associated with Trump or his campaign had any illegal dealings with Russian officials or others with ties to the Kremlin. Russian officials have denied meddling in the US election.

A US official who is familiar with the rough outlines of the probe and who spoke on condition of anonymity told Reuters on Thursday that Mueller was also examining whether Trump or others tried to interfere with the investigation.

Sekulow said that Trump, in his tweet, was reacting to a story in the Washington Post that was the first to report Mueller was examining whether Trump had tried to obstruct the probe by firing FBI director James Comey in May.

On "Fox News Sunday," Sekulow said that he was certain the president was not under investigation because he had received no notification or other indication that he was.

Pressed on the issue by host Chris Wallace, Sekulow acknowledged that he could not be certain. "I cannot read the mind of the special prosecutor," Sekulow said.

"No one has notified us that he is" under investigation, Sekulow said.

Peter Carr, a spokesman for the Mueller team, declined to comment.

Barak Cohen, a former Justice Department lawyer and now a defense attorney specialising in white-collar crime and investigations, said there was no requirement that the special counsel notify Trump he was under investigation, so the lack of such notice meant nothing.

He said, however, that Sekulows comments could mean the White House was taking the position that no investigation exists until Muellers team officially confirms it, disregarding any media reports based on anonymous sourcing.

Cohen said the first official communication that a target is under investigation typically comes when prosecutors begin requesting documents and other evidence. At that time, defense lawyers often will ask for their clients status.

Prosecutors will often answer then to avoid misleading the target. But they may also not answer if they are trying to build a case and develop further evidence.

"No answer is probably the most troubling answer in criminal defense, said Cohen.

Separately, a former White House lawyer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said there was nothing stopping Trump or his lawyers from asking Mueller whether Trump was under investigation.

Mueller would be allowed, though not required, to answer that question, unless it involved material before a grand jury, the former White House lawyer said.

The lawyer also said it was unlikely that any obstruction probe would not examine Trump.

"Its inconceivable hes not under investigation in the obstruction investigation, the lawyer said. Its all about him."

Trump's statements on Twitter are a sign of his frustration with the Russia allegations, said former Republican Speaker Newt Gingrich, on ABC's "This Week."

"Trump has a compulsion to counterattack and is very pugnacious. I dont think it serves him well. I dont think that tweet helped him," Gingrich said.

Gingrich said he had lost confidence in Mueller because he is a friend of Comey, and said too many members of Mueller's investigative team have ties to Democrats.

Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House intelligence committee, defended Mueller and his team, noting that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have praised his appointment.

Schiff said Trump, his legal team and his supporters were trying to discredit the special counsel and his investigation.

"They want to lay the foundation to discredit whatever Rob Mueller comes up with. They are essentially engaging in a scorched earth litigation strategy that is beginning with trying to discredit the prosecutor," Schiff said on ABC.

Multiple committees in the Senate and House of Representatives are investigating various aspects of Russian election meddling.

The Senate intelligence committee is in the early stages of its probe and is looking at whether anyone involved in the campaign shared information with the Russians, said Senator Angus King of Maine, an independent who caucuses with Democrats.

"I'd say we're 20 percent into it, just to throw a number at it," King said on NBC's "Meet the Press."

Lawmakers from both parties are worried that Russian meddling in US elections could continue, King said.

"The real problem here is the Russians aren't going away. This isn't a one-off deal," he said.
Paris: He's the man with the Midas touch  and French President Emmanuel Macron looks set to prove it again Sunday, when his party is projected to sweep into parliament with one of the biggest majorities in the country's post-war history. Just four weeks after taking office and 14 months after founding his Republique en Marche (Republic on the Move) party, his candidates are poised to dynamite the traditional parties that have dominated French politics for half a century.

But the hardest part may lie ahead.

While REM is set to crush its rivals, the 39-year-old president could struggle to get his plans for far-reaching labour reforms past the fiery French streets.

Opponents are also pointing out how low turnout for the parliamentary elections -- less than half of voters are expected to cast a ballot  could undermine his claims to hold a strong mandate for change. So far, however, he has enjoyed a political honeymoon.

In meetings with leaders including Germany's Angela Merkel, Russia's Vladimir Putin and India's Narendra Modi, "le Kid", as L'Express news weekly nicknamed him, has made an instant impact on the international stage.

He even tried to intimidate US President Donald Trump with a memorable white-knuckle handshake at a NATO summit and later mocked his decision to pull the United States out of the global Paris accord to combat climate change.

Macron's English-language appeal to "make our planet great again"  a riff on Trump's own slogan of making America great again  became a social media sensation. "France is in vogue again, France is cool," Spain's El Pais newspaper wrote, comparing the "Macronmania" to the enthusiasm that swept the US after Barack Obama was elected president in 2008.

A column in The New York Times on Saturday by leftwing writer Timothy Egan also claimed that France now had "John F Kennedy glam and New Frontier energy". At home, Macron has adopted a divide-and-rule approach to his opponents, wooing moderates from the left and the right to neuter the opposition.

The son of two doctors from the northeastern city of Amiens, Macron has made a career out of breaking the mould. The former investment banker is married to his 64-year-old former teacher Brigitte, a divorced mother of three whom he fell for as a teen.

His path to France's highest office is as unusual as their inter-generational love story. Macron had never held elected office before throwing his hat into the ring to replace president Francois Hollande, two years after Hollande promoted him from political unknown to become economy minister.

In a country where political careers have traditionally been built over decades, Macron took the risk of founding his own party rather than trying to seek the nomination of the Socialists or the Republicans, the heavyweight parties on the left and right.

Using his image as a moderniser, he attracted thousands of volunteers to his party, which was modelled partly on Obama's 2008 campaign.

The downfall of the Socialists and a scandal engulfing the conservative Republicans fuelled his rise, allowing him to lead the battle against the far-right's Marine Le Pen, whom he beat soundly in the presidential run-off on 7 May.

While fans often compare his style to that of American presidents, he appears to be more inspired by Francois Mitterrand and Charles de Gaulle, two French leaders remembered for their monarchical style.

Since his inauguration Macron has sought to restore lost prestige to the presidency, delivering his victory speech in front of the Louvre museum  a former royal palace  and hosting Putin at the palace of Versailles. He has also kept a tight rein on communications, speaking very little in public and being accused by some journalists of trying to interfere with the work of the press.

The Canard Enchaine newspaper revealed in May that one of Macron's closest allies and a senior minister in his first government, Richard Ferrand, had benefited from an insider property deal while running a public health fund.

Despite calls for his resignation, the government braved the storm and stood by him, conceding that Ferrand's actions may have been unethical but not unlawful. A prosecutor has opened a probe.

Macron was also embroiled in early blunder after being caught on camera joking about the flimsy "kwassa-kwassa" boats that transport migrants from the Comoros Islands off the coast of Africa to French territories.

"The kwassa-kwassa doesn't do much fishing, it carries Comorians," he said laughing. The remark caused outrage given the thousands of migrants who have died in such crossings. Macron's office later admitted to an "unfortunate quip that may have been hurtful".
Paris: French president Emmanuel Macron's centrist party swept to a large majority in parliamentary elections on Sunday, although it fell short of a predicted landslide.

Macron's year-old Republique en Marche (Republic on the Move, REM) and their allies were set to win between 350 and 361 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, based on partial results after the second round of an election which has eliminated many high-profile figures.

The party Macron founded just 16 months ago has re-drawn the French political map, although the winning score was considerably lower than the 470 seats predicted by some pre-vote surveys.

But it gives the 39-year-old president one of France's biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing his programme of business-friendly reforms.

"A year ago, no-one would have imagined such a political renewal," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said. It is down to the president's desire to breathe new life into democracy and to the French people who wanted to give parliament a new face."

Macron's success was tempered by record low turnout of just under 44 percent, leading opposition leaders to claim he had no groundswell of support.

Desire for change

REM routed the Socialists and heavily defeated the rightwing Republicans, while the far-right National Front (FN) of Marine Le Pen - whom Macron defeated in the presidential run-off on 7 May had a disappointing night.

Le Pen entered parliament for the first time in her career in one of at least eight seats the FN won, but the party was set to fall well short of its 15-seat target.

Le Pen's victory in the northern former coal-mining town of Henin-Beaumont was a rare bright spot for her nationalist and anti-EU party that was once hoping to emerge as the principal opposition to Macron.She insisted the FN still had a key role to play, saying: "We are the only force of resistance to the watering down of France, of its social model and its identity."

She insisted the FN still had a key role to play, saying: "We are the only force of resistance to the watering down of France, of its social model and its identity."

The Socialists were the biggest losers, punished for the high unemployment, social unrest and lost national confidence that marked their five years in power.The party of former

The party of former president Francois Hollande shed around 200 seats, leaving them with between 44-46 seats.

"The rout of the Socialist Party is undeniable," said PS leader Jean-Christophe Cambadelis, who lost his seat in the first round and resigned his position on Sunday night.Former Socialist prime minister Manuel Valls narrowly retained his seat after a dogfight with a hard-left candidate in the Paris suburbs who demanded a recount amid noisy protests.

Former Socialist prime minister Manuel Valls narrowly retained his seat after a dogfight with a hard-left candidate in the Paris suburbs who demanded a recount amid noisy protests.

But former education minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, a one-time Socialist star, was beaten by a REM candidate in the central city of Lyon, while former labour minister Myriam El Khomri lost to Macron-supporting candidate Pierre-Yves Bournazel in the capital.

The Republicans fared better than the Socialists, hanging on to between 126 and 136 seats, down from over 200 in the last parliament, and remain the main opposition party.

The conservative party had enough seats to "defend its convictions", said the party's leader for the elections, Francois Baroin, calling on Macron to heed the record low turnout, which he said sent "a message". The task he faces is immense," he added.

More women lawmakers

The new assembly is set to be transformed with younger, more ethnically diverse lawmakers and more than 200 women, far more than in the outgoing parliament.

Around half of REM's candidates are virtual unknowns drawn from diverse fields of academia, business or local activism.

They include 27-year-old Rwandan orphan Herve Berville, who cruised to victory in the western region of Brittany, and female bullfighter Marie Sara, who came within 100 votes of unseating senior FN figure Gilbert Collard in southern France.

The other half of the party are a mix of centrists and moderate left- and right-wing politicians are drawn from established parties including ally MoDem.

The hard-left France Unbowed was forecast to win around 15 seats as it also struggled to maintain the momentum it had during the presidential election.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, the movement's firebrand leader, won a seat in the southern city of Marseille on a pledge to lead resistance to Macron's radical labour market reforms.

Melenchon also honed in on the record low turnout, saying: "The French people are now engaged in a sort of civic general strike."

Many observers suggested voters were weary of elections after four in the space of two months.

Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans to overhaul France's social security system and wants to breathe new life into the European Union.

His confident start at home, where he has concentrated on trying to restore the lost prestige of the president, and his bold action on the international stage has led to a host of positive headlines.

He won instant plaudits from France's closest ally Germany, with Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman hailing his "clear parliamentary majority."
Brussels: The European Union has extended sanctions against Russia for a year over its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

EU foreign ministers said in a statement on Monday that the 28-nation bloc "remains committed to fully implement its non-recognition policy" of Russia's seizure of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol.

The sanctions are now set to run until 23 June, 2018, and apply to EU citizens and companies. They ban the import of products from Crimea and Sevastopol, halt any European investment or real estate purchases and stop cruise ships from stopping there.

The measures also ban the export of some goods and technologies that could be used for transport, telecommunications or in the energy sector particularly oil, gas or mineral exploration.

These sanctions are just one part of a raft of measures the EU has imposed on Russia for its role in the conflict in Ukraine and misuse of Ukrainian state funds.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters on Monday that Moscow does not think the sanctions are "legitimate." He said "they are hurting not only us but also the countries that adopted them."

In addition to the annexation of Crimea, Russia is backing separatists in eastern Ukraine who are fighting the government. The fighting has left over 10,000 people dead.
The European Union (EU) may send a new security mission to help stabilise Iraq after the expected recapture of Mosul from Islamic State, diplomats said, cautioning that plans were at an early stage.

EU foreign ministers will hold a first discussion on Monday in Luxembourg and consider the deployment of an EU Security Sector Reform Advice and Assist Team which could train Iraq security officials, according to a draft statement seen by Reuters.

Iraq has formally requested EU help, diplomats said.

While a small step, any such effort could signal an end to France and Germany's aversion to European Union involvement in Middle East wars in the wake of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, which Berlin and Paris opposed.

Both countries are involved separately in the fight against Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq, but the EU's militaries have struggled to work as a bloc despite broad know-how in non-combat training roles.

An EU mission in Iraq in 2006 to help train judges and police was widely regarded as a failure because it was too small and too limited in duration, an EU official said.

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has backed a greater role for the bloc abroad, seeking to develop a common EU defence alliance to match its economic clout.

Any EU mission might dovetail with similar planning at NATO, which this month joined the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State, and is considering training more Iraqi soldiers.

Islamic State is on the verge of defeat in its Iraqi stronghold of Mosul and bracing for an assault against its de facto capital in Raqqa, Syria. But U.S. officials are concerned tribal groups may fight for control as the militants flee.

"We cannot afford to allow a vacuum to develop," said one EU diplomat briefed on the EU discussions. "We and others are ready to step in. Just how we do that is to be decided."

The EU's foreign service, the European External Action Service, is expected to present proposals soon.

French diplomats say an EU mission could build up Iraqi counter-terrorism forces, establish functioning justice and interior ministries and give strategic security advice to the Iraqi government, as well as train police.

Another EU diplomat said the bloc had a duty to help in a non-combat role, partly to avoid even greater flows of refugees to Europe.
F-16s - the worlds most widely used fighter planes could now come with a Made in India seal, with production expertise by Americas Lockheed Martin which was on the verge of shutting down its Texas assembly line because of lack of orders. This announcement comes just ahead of a ModiTrump summit meeting next Monday. Experts say the final buy by the Indian government will likely be more about politics but what the F-16 announcement shows is that America has gotten into the game and saying, alright, we're here too, so who will you buy from - the Swedes, the French or the U.S.?

India's latest tweaks to the defense procurement policy gives top billing to partnerships that help the Make in India push rather than outright buys. This is the context of the Tata-Lockheed agreement which means this combine will be competing with other Indian and foreign partner combines for the defence tenders. The Tata-Lockheed agreement signals intent to move in a certain direction but India's Ministry of Defense (MoD) has not yet issued global competitive bids for single-engine fighter aircraft.

This Indo-US pact coincides with the Jack Ma blitz in the US - where the Chinese billionaire is following through on a promise he made to U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this year to create one million jobs in the U.S. Visiting heads of state and businesses have by now understood only too well that dealing with Donald Trump is less complicated if you answer to the "what's in it for me" question first before democracy talk and good intentions.

On the sidelines of the Paris Air Show, Tata Advanced Systems signed a deal with Lockheed Martin to produce F-16 fighter planes in India - just the kind of package deal neatly tied up with a red ribbon that Donald Trump relishes and one that sits well with Modis Make in India initiative too.

India has been shopping around for 200 new fighter planes because the existing MiG 21s fleet is old and accident prone. Reuters reports that Lockheed's leader of F-16 business development Phil Howard clarified that the deal will not cross wires in Washington where Donald Trump's America First campaign insists on creating jobs at home.

"Lockheed has met and briefed the current U.S. administration on its plan, and Howard said he had a sense of full support from the Trump administration", reports Reuters.

Link: Joint statement by Lockheed Martin and Tata

It is true that the F-16s capabilities are well known to potential adversaries, particularly the Pakistanis, who have flown the aircraft since the 1980s. But this is a tradeoff inherent in getting one of the worlds most proven combat aircraft. More important, the Block-70 version of the F-16 that India would produce features upgrades in avionics and operational capabilities that far outstrip the older Pakistani planes. And India would likely be able to veto future F-16 sales to sensitive states such as Pakistan. Pakistani familiarity with the F-16, then, is not a reason to avoid it, experts S Paul Kapur and Sumit Ganguly have said long before this deal was inked.

Experts say the technically sophisticated F-16s will bring India and US closer - much more than an Indo-Swedish cooperation on the Gripen.

The F-16 Block 70 is the plane the companies will jointly produce in India. The F-16 Block 70 is ideally suited to meet the Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs, a joint statement said. Lockheed Martin claims that the F-16 Block 70 is the "newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered".

As things stand, America, Russia and Israel are the top three arms suppliers to India.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.
Theresa May condemned the attacks on Muslims outside Finsbury Park Mosque on Monday calling it "sickening."

While speaking at Downing Street, after chairing a meeting with the government's Cobra emergency committee in Whitehall, May said: "hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed". She also confirmed that police investigating into the matter believed that the attacker acted alone.

"Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed" - Theresa May responds to #FinsburyPark attack https://t.co/3A5ouLb4Ph pic.twitter.com/LH6iJUZD8P  BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 19, 2017

She added the attack on Muslims was as insidious and destructive to British values as the other recent terror attacks that were motivated by Islamic hatred.

While saying that the investigation was on, she said, "We will stop at nothing."

On Monday midnight, worshippers outside Finsbury Park Mosque were run over by a van. The victims were helping an unwell elderly man when the driver swerved the van towards them.

Locals then pounced on the driver and pinned him down while waiting for the police to arrive. Eyewitnesses said the driver was screaming, "All Muslims, I want to kill all Muslims."

Theresa May's prompt response to the tragedy is in contrast to her evasions after the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy. The Independent reported that Theresa May finally met the victims' families on Sunday at Downing Street.

Before that, she faced criticism for avoiding locals during her visit to the 24-storey tower on Thursday.

With inputs from agencies
The attack outside Finsbury Park mosque has been treated as a terror attack, Neil Basu, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Metropolitan police said. "We should all stand together against extremists," Basu added.

"This was an attack on London and all Londoners," police say after one man died in #FinsburyPark attackhttps://t.co/er48R7bIEu pic.twitter.com/0cQQiJWOta  BBC Breaking News (@BBCBreaking) June 19, 2017

Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in London, Cressida Dick stated, My thoughts are with the family of the man who has died and with all those who were injured."

Dick further added that more officers will be deployed, if needed: Extra officers are on duty in the area to help reassure the local community. They will be there for as long as they are needed."

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan also supported the deployment of extra officers, stating that extra police would be present to reassure communities, particularly those observing Ramadan, as per BBC.

Khan added that the attack appears to be on a specific community, like attacks in Manchester, Westminster, and London Bridge.

A van was rammed into pedestrians near a mosque in north London. The incident has been investigated by counter-terrorism officers, as per the police on Monday. One man was killed in the attack and eight people were hospitalised.

The driver of the van has been detained and arrested.

An eyewitness, Abdul Rahman, recounts the attack: "When the guy came out from his van he wanted to escape, run away and he was saying 'I want to kill Muslims. 'I want to kill Muslims,' as reported by BBC.

The Guardian reported that the attacks came during the holy month of Ramadan, when numerous Muslims gather at the Finsbury Park area which has two mosques.
London: British Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday condemned the lone wolf terror attack near a London mosque and said it was "every bit as sickening" as the recent ones to hit the country.

She was speaking after chairing a meeting of the government's emergency Cobra committee in the aftermath of a terror attack in which a man died and 10 others were injured when a man drove a van into worshippers outside the Muslim Welfare House in north London.

Eight people were taken to hospital after the attack outside the mosque, which is also a community centre.

A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Prime Minister Theresa May said the driver of the van acted alone, adding: "Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed."

She also said that police declared it a terrorist incident within eight minutes, and that it was "an attack on Muslims near their place of worship".

May added that "there has been far too much tolerance of extremism over many years".

"It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms; and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible."

Monday's attack is the fourth terror attack in the UK in four months, after incidents in Westminster, Manchester and on London Bridge.

Police said all the victims of the attack, which was in the area of Finsbury Park Mosque, were Muslims.
Kabul: Taliban attackers stormed a regional police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan Sunday, killing five officers and injuring 22 people in an assault launched by a suicide bomber.

Of the seven attackers involved, one blew himself up in a car at the entrance to clear the way for the others to rush into the building, the office of the Paktia provincial governor said in a statement announcing the end of the raid.

Special forces killed four of the insurgents but two held out for several hours, it said, adding that nine police and 13 civilians were wounded in addition to the dead.

The attack on the base in the centre of the city of Gardez, part of the Taliban's all-out assault during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, was launched at 6 am.

The base houses both regular policemen and police special forces.

"One (attacker) blew up his vehicle at the entrance of the headquarters, opening the way for... others who opened fire on the security forces," regional police commander, Asadullah Shirzad, told AFP.

The head of the police hospital, Dr Shir Mohammad, confirmed the five fatalities.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the raid.

"Around 6:20 am this morning a martyr attack was conducted by our mujahideen against a special forces base in Gardez, Paktia," he said in a statement.

"First a car bomb detonated then our mujahideen entered the building, opening fire on police."

Since they launched their spring offensive in late April, the Taliban have been mounting lethal assaults on positions of the Afghan army and police, who have lost several dozen men in recent weeks.

About sixty soldiers were killed on their bases, mostly at night, in the southern province of Kandahar alone around the end of May.

The insurgents are also targeting the international coalition supporting Afghan forces.

Seven US soldiers were injured on Saturday in an insider attack by an Afghan soldier who turned his weapon on his instructors and advisers.

The Taliban did not directly claim the attack but described the soldier, who was killed, as a "patriot."

On 11 June the insurgents claimed responsibility for a similar attack in which an Afghan soldier killed three US soldiers and wounded a fourth in the eastern province of Nangarhar.

The Pentagon is set to announce it is sending another 4,000 US troops to the country to counter the increasingly aggressive insurgents.

US troops in Afghanistan currently number about 8,400, with another 5,000 from NATO allies. They mainly serve in a training and advisory capacity.
Paris: Qatar's diplomatic isolation could last years and its Gulf rivals will not lift sanctions until it abandons its alleged support for jihadists, a United Arab Emirates minister said on Monday.

"We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate," state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists during a Paris visit.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain broke off relations with Qatar two weeks ago and have closed land and sea borders and imposed severe restrictions on airspace.

The crisis has raised major concerns over instability in the region.

"This isolation can take years," Gargash said.

Qatar's rivals were "betting on time", but a solution could not be brokered until it abandoned its support for "extremist Islamists".

"They have built a sophisticated podium for jihadism and Islamic extremism," he said.

"They support groups linked to Al-Qaeda in Syria, Libya... and in Yemen.

"This state is weaponising jihadists and Islamists, it is using this as a weapon of influence," he added.

But by applying pressure on gas-rich Qatar through sanctions, "we have a golden opportunity to break this support", he said.

Qatar strongly denies the accusations.

In the next few days, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt will submit a list of demands to Qatar, which is likely to include the expulsion of radical individuals.

"There must be some people who are wise in Qatar and who will prevail, hopefully within the ruling family," Gargash said.

"This is not about regime change, it is about behaviour change."

He called for Western nations including the United States, France, Germany and Britain to help monitor any agreement reached with Qatar to ensure they are not cooperating with jihadists.

"They have the diplomatic clout and technical know-how," Gargash added.

He said that despite the row, the Gulf nations had pledged to allow the massive United States base in Qatar, where 10,000 American soldiers are based, to function normally.

The Al-Udeid base, the largest United States base in the region, is a key launching pad for military strikes on the Islamic State jihadist group.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nayan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, will hold talks with French president Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday.
Doha: Turkish troops have arrived in Doha to take part in joint training exercises, Qatar's defence ministry said on Monday, at a time of high tension in the Gulf.

The first joint drills took place on Sunday at the Tariq bin Ziyad military camp in Doha, the ministry said in a statement carried by the official news agency.

The exercises aim to raise "Qatari and Turkish fighting efficiency amid plans for joint operations to fight extremism and terrorism, as well as peacekeeping operations before and after military operations," said the statement in Arabic.

The drills had "been planned for some time" added the statement.

They are taking place as a diplomatic crisis in the Gulf enters its third week.Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and other countries have cut ties with Qatar over accusations the emirate supports extremism.Doha denies the accusations and says measures imposed on Qatar by its Gulf neighbours amount to a "blockade".

Turkey is one of Qatar's strongest allies.

Earlier this month, Ankara fast-tracked a separate agreement to allow troops to be deployed at Turkey's military base in Qatar.It has also increased food supplies to Qatar after the emirate's land border was closed.Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has been one of the figures trying to forge a diplomatic solution to the crisis.

And Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed the economic and political isolation of Qatar as "inhumane and un-Islamic".

Last year, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani was the first foreign leader to phone Erdogan after a failed coup in Turkey.Last week, Qatar's navy carried out three days of joint training exercises with the US Navy.
Washington: US president Donald Trump's son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner is travelling to West Asia this week in pursuit of a peace deal between the Israelis and Palestinians, a White House official has confirmed.

Kushner will meet with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netayahu in Jerusalem and with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah as a Trump envoy, along with Jason Greenblatt, an assistant to the president and special representative for international negotiations, the official told The Washington Post on Sunday night.

The visit comes a month after Trump's maiden trip to the region, during which he met with Israeli and Palestinian officials and committed to working to bring both sides together in a lasting peace agreement.

Greenblatt is scheduled to arrive in West Asia on Monday, while Kushner will reach on Wednesday, according to the White House official, who detailed the trip on the condition of anonymity.

Kushner and Greenblatt are hoping to "continue conversations" with both sides but noting that an accord almost certainly would require ongoing discussions.

"It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Kushner and Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington, D.C.," the official told The Washington Post.
A Shocking Restaurant Saga Of Fraud & Embezzlement At Embeya

By Anthony Todd in Food on Jun 19, 2017 1:50PM



(Photo by Anthony Todd for his review of Embeya in 2013)

We covered the weird, tragic saga of the closing of West Loop hotspot Embeya pretty closely as it was happening. First, the restaurant's opening chef Thai Dang left under some pretty hostile circumstances. Then, Dang sued the restaurant for unpaid wages and won. Eventually, the restaurant closed, but the space still sits empty. What the heck happened?

Thanks to some masterful, in-depth reporting by Peter Frost at Crain's, we now know the entire, complex saga. It contains some TV-movie level drama, complete with luxury goods, international flight from the law, complex personal relationships and lots and lots of cash.

The mess primarily involves two of the co-owners of Embeya, Attila Gyulai and his wife Komal Patel. They, along with Dang and his brother Kenny, put up the initial financing for Embeya, and it became a fairly huge hit.

Then things started to get weird. First, strange things happened inside the restaurant. Checks didn't make it onto the books. Guest bills were inflated and the extra money disappeared. Once Dang left, the couple eventually drained the restaurant's accounts, abandoned their car and condo and fled the country, traveling all over the world to Mexico, Italy and Germany.

Dang and his now-wife Danielle have eventually clawed their way to a happy ending, and their new restaurant, HaiSous, opens this Wednesday. There's still no sign of Gyulai, though they're tracking his movements through subpoenas of his bank records. Despite winning their legal battles against him, they can't easily collect anything as long as he's running, and may never get paid.

If you're going to read one piece of long-form food writing this week, this should be it.
A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning, causing several casualties, police said. One person has been arrested. The London Ambulance Service says the injured are being taken to hospitals. Eyewitnesses reported seeing police give emergency medical treatment to at least one of the injured.

The incident took place outside the Muslim Welfare House, which contains a mosque, on Seven Sisters road, The Guardian reported.

The site is close to the Finsbury Park Mosque, from which worshippers were leaving after midnight prayers when the incident took place, Sky News reported.

The police, who termed the collision a "major incident", are investigating whether it was accidental or deliberate and it is understood that in the crash's initial aftermath armed officers were deployed as a precaution, The Guardian said.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body, tweeted that worshippers were struck by a van as they were leaving prayers at the Finsbury Park mosque. "We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims." Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, tweeted that the van had "intentionally" run over people leaving night prayers held during the holy month of Ramadan.

The mosque is near Seven Sisters Road, where the accident happened, and was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has entirely changed under new management.

A witnesses told Sky News that at least ten people were hit by the van. According to The Independent, footage of the incideny showed injured people motionless on the pavement as angry crowds surrounded a white man believed to be the driver.

London's transport authority said on Twitter that the Seven Sisters road had been closed due to an "emergency services incident".

The city's ambulance service said in a statement on Twitter that it had sent "a number of resources" including ambulance crews, paramedics and specialist response teams to the scene.

"An advance trauma team from London's Air Ambulance has also been dispatched by car," the statement said.

An eyewitness who lives in a flat on Seven Sisters Road said she saw people "shouting and screaming", the BBC reported. She told the BBC that the van seems to have hit people who were coming out of the Finsbury Park mosque after prayers finished. Witnesses said the road was "backed up" with police cars, ambulance and fire engines.

The neighborhood has two mosques, and several hundred worshippers would have been in the area after attending prayers as part of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The Finsbury Park mosque was associated with extremist ideology for several years after the 9/11 attacks in the United States but was shut down and reorganized. It has not been associated with radical views for more than a decade.

London police have declared the crash a major incident and closed the area to normal traffic.

Metropolitan Police said officers were called to the scene on Seven Sisters Road at 12:20 am Monday. Many police cars and ambulances responded to the incident. "Police were called just after 0020 hours (2320 GMT) 18 June to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians," police said in a statement. "There are a number of casualties being worked on at the scene. There has been one person arrested," the statement further added.

No other details were immediately available.

Britain's terrorist alert has been set at "severe" meaning an attack is highly likely.

Earlier this month, a van veered into pedestrians on London Bridge, setting off vehicle and knife attacks that killed eight people and wounded many others on the bridge and in the nearby Borough Market area. Three Muslim extremists who carried out the attack were killed by police.

Manchester was also hit by a severe attack when a bomber killed more than 20 people at an Ariana Grande concert.

With inputs from agencies
A van ran into pedestrians near a north London mosque, killing one man and injuring eight others in an incident that police on Monday said was being investigated by counter-terrorism officers. The 48-year-old driver of the van was detained by members of the public and then arrested by police, as Muslim leaders said worshippers were specifically targeted after leaving prayers at the mosque shortly after midnight.

The incident comes after two deadly Islamist-inspired attacks this year that used vehicles to ram pedestrians  a stabbing spree earlier this month in the London Bridge area and a March attack in which a man drove a car into crowds on Westminster Bridge.

"One man was pronounced dead at the scene...Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals," police said in a statement, adding that two other people were treated for minor injuries.

Eyewitness Abdiqadir Warra told AFP: "He just drove at people. Some of them he took a few metres (along the road)." David Robinson, 41, who arrived just after the accident, said: "We saw lots of people shouting and lots of people injured". According to The Guardian, two witnesses reported that they saw three people leave the van, however no other suspects have been indentified or reported to the police.

Amateur video footage seen by AFP showed three people lying on the ground, including one who was receiving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Police said the driver had also been taken to hospital and would receive a mental health assessment. "Due to the nature of this incident, extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan," the police statement concluded.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body for British Muslims, said the incident occurred outside the Muslim Welfare House on Seven Sisters Road, near the Finsbury Park mosque.

BREAKING: We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims. https://t.co/FSE5m3bFpo  MCB (@MuslimCouncil) June 19, 2017

UPDATE: the attack took place outside @MWH_London which is nearby the #FinsburyPark mosque, not outside Finsbury Park mosque itself  MCB (@MuslimCouncil) June 19, 2017

Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, said the van had "intentionally" run over people who were leaving prayers held during the holy month of Ramadan.

An AFP reporter could see a helicopter and many emergency vehicles at the scene, which was closed off by a large police cordon. Traffic was shut down on a section of Seven Sisters Road, where the incident happened.

"We saw lots of people shouting and lots of people injured," David Robinson, 41, who arrived just after the accident, told AFP. The London Ambulance Service said it had sent "a number of resources" to the scene.

Potential terrorist attack

Prime Minister Theresa May condemned it as a "terrible incident", while opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he was "totally shocked" and had been in touch with mosques and police.

According to Associated Press, May said police were treating the incident in Finsbury Park as a potential terrorist attack. She said she would chair a meeting of Cobra emergency committee the later on Monday morning.

The area is in Corbyn's Islington North constituency. A helicopter hovered overhead and several emergency vehicles blocked a section of Seven Sisters Road, a busy thoroughfare where the incident happened. Police, including armed officers, could be seen manning a wide cordon around the area. Others searched the area with sniffer dogs. A group of Muslim men were praying on the pavement nearby. Traffic was shut down along a one-kilometre section of the road.

Finsbury Park mosque: Once a notorious hub for radical Islamists

Finsbury Park mosque was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has entirely changed in recent years under new management. Its former imam Abu Hamza was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015. He preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States.

In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MCB to promote better understanding of Islam following Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks in Paris.

Despite the change in leadership and a new focus on inter-faith relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the Paris attacks. "If this attack is confirmed as a deliberate terrorist attack then this should be classed as an act of terrorism," said Mohammed Shafiq, head of the Ramadhan Foundation community group.

"The British Muslim community requires all decent people to stand with us against this evil violence," he said, adding that "rampant Islamophobia has been on the rise for a number of years". Cage, a Muslim human rights group, said there had been "an epidemic rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes" but called for calm "not to inflame an already volatile and distressing situation".

Spike in anti-Muslim crime

Monday's incident in London follows an Islamist-inspired attack on 3 June in which three militants wearing fake suicide vests ran over pedestrians and went on a stabbing spree in bars in the London Bridge area.

They killed eight people before being shot dead by police. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said following that attack that there had been a 40-percent increase in racist incidents in the city and a fivefold increase in the number of anti-Muslim incidents.

On his Facebook page, Khan at the time called on Londoners "to pull together, and send a clear message around the world that our city will never be divided by these hideous individuals who seek to harm us and destroy our way of life". Britain has seen two other attacks this year.

On 22 March, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a police officer guarding the British parliament to death before being shot dead.

Five people were killed in the attack. On 22 May, a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a pop concert in Manchester, killing 22 people.

With inputs from agencies
Paris: France's Far-Right leader Marine Le Pen won a seat in parliament for the first time on Sunday, but it was a bittersweet victory that masked an electoral debacle for her National Front (French: Front National (FN) party.

The feisty 48-year-old, who lost by a 20-point margin to Emmanuel Macron in May's presidential run-off, won handily in her northern fiefdom of Henin-Beaumont, a depressed former mining town, with 58 percent of the vote, she announced.

But her anti-European Union, anti-immigration FN failed to capitalise on the populist wave that helped propel Donald Trump to the US presidency and spurred Britain's vote to leave the European Union. Le Pen's party won 8 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, dashing her one-time hopes of emerging as the main opposition to Macron's centrist Republic on the Move (REM) party.

Le Pen said nevertheless that the FN, "against a bloc that represents the interests of the oligarchy, are the only force of resistance". REM and its centrist ally MoDem swept to a large majority with 351 seats.

Low turnout

Le Pen, like radical left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon, said record low turnout at around 44 percent cast doubt on REM's legitimacy. In late April, after Le Pen qualified to face off with Macron, Bruno Jeanbart of the OpinionWay polling institute said the FN could hope to win between 20 and 50 seats.

But by falling short of 15 seats in the end, the FN will be too small to form a parliamentary group which would have given it a role in setting the parliamentary agenda as well as influential committee positions. In the presidential election, Le Pen won more than 50 percent of votes in her head-to-head with Macron in 45 voting districts and drew a total of 10.7 million votes, a historic high for the Far-Right party.

The FN has two lawmakers in the outgoing parliament, one of whom will not return.

Le Pen's 27-year-old niece Marion Marechal-Le Pen, a darling of the FN and the face of its traditional Catholic base, shocked grassroots supporters by announcing her decision not to seek re-election. Marechal-Le Pen announced the decision just two days after her aunt lost to Macron.

The other incumbent, Gillard Collard, won by just 123 votes over a former bullfighter, Marie Sara, one of dozens of new MPs in the REM party with no prior political experience.

Senior FN figure Florian Philippot, the architect of the FN's policies to scrap the euro common currency, lost in the former industrial area of Moselle in eastern France. Le Pen was seen as a shoo-in for the Henin-Beaumont seat after scoring 46 percent in the first round a week ago against 11 rivals, and she defeated a political novice from Macron's party, Anne Roquet.

'Scandalous'

Le Pen fought for the same seat in 2012, losing by 118 votes to the Socialist Philippe Kemel, who was eliminated this year in the first round of the parliamentary election last Sunday. Le Pen complained last weekend that the record low first-round turnout raised questions over France's two-round first-past-the-post system that favours larger parties.

On Sunday she said it was "scandalous" that the FN could not have a group in parliament. In 1986, under a proportional representation system, the FN, then led by her father Jean-Marie Le Pen, won 35 seats.

The FN leader will now have to abandon her seat in the European Parliament, where her party is under several investigations in alleged funding scandals.

Le Pen and the FN were seen as likely to benefit this year from a confluence of factors including the 2015 migrant crisis and the string of jihadist attacks that have hit France.

The party has a particular populist appeal in France's northern rustbelt, which is dotted with shutdown factories and mines. Le Pen was roundly criticised for a poor performance in a brutal TV debate with Macron days before the presidential runoff that probably cost her votes.

Le Pen has spent the past six years since taking charge of the FN trying to expunge the xenophobic, anti-Semitic ethos engendered by her father, who co-founded the party in 1972. Under Marine Le Pen, the FN has consistently improved its electoral scores, notching up records in past regional, European Parliament and presidential elections.
Berlin: German Chancellor Angela Merkel congratulated French President Emmanuel Macron on winning a "clear parliamentary majority" in elections on Sunday, her spokesman said. The spokesman, Steffen Seibert, hailed the strong showing for Macron's year-old Republic on the Move (REM) in a tweet, adding that Merkel wished for "further good cooperation for Germany, France, Europe".

Foreign minister Sigmar Gabriel also welcomed the vote's outcome, tweeting that it paved "the way for reforms in France+Europe". Macron's centrist party won a massive majority in parliamentary elections, early projections showed, in a dramatic re-drawing of the French political map.

The new president's REM party and its allies MoDem are forecast to win between 355 and 425 seats in the 577-member National Assembly.

The result gives 39-year-old Macron one of France's biggest post-war majorities, strengthening his hand in implementing the kind of business-friendly, pro-European Union programme Berlin has long promoted.

Apart from loosening labour laws to try to boost employment, Macron also plans measures to deepen European integration and an overhaul of the French social security system. Merkel has repeatedly stressed that it was crucial not only for France, but for Germany, to help Macron succeed.

Macron has forged the beginnings of a strong working relationship with the German leader since his election last month, despite significant differences over several issues including stewardship of the euro.

He chose Berlin for his first trip abroad as president. At a joint press conference, Merkel threw her support behind Macron's call for a "historic reconstruction" of the European Union, even expressing some openness to a possible change to key treaties governing the bloc.

And earlier this month, they joined forces with Italy to criticise US President Donald Trump's decision to quit the Paris climate agreement, saying the pact was "not renegotiable".
Four assailants have been killed by security forces in Mali after an attack on a tourist resort popular with foreigners close to the capital Bamako, the country's security minister said late Sunday. "We have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed", Salif Traore told journalists, adding that they were "searching for the bodies of two others", without specifying if any more were on the run.

Suspected jihadists crying "Allahu Akbar" stormed a tourist resort popular with foreigners on the edge of the Malian capital Bamako on Sunday, briefly seizing more than 30 hostages and leaving at least two people dead.

The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.

Security forces who battled the gunmen at the site were continuing Sunday evening to search for the assailants who fled. Nearby residents had first reported the attack after hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.

"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened," Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP. They were backed up by UN soldiers and troops from a French counter-terrorism force.

"Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese," he said, adding that the second body was being identified.

At least "32 hostages" were freed, Mali's army said in a statement, adding that one of the attackers was wounded and gave up his weapon. He also left behind "bottles containing some explosive substances", the security ministry said.

At least 14 people, both Malians and foreigners, were injured, according to the ministry. A witness interviewed on local television ORTM said he saw a man arrive on a motorcycle who "started shooting at the crowd" followed by "two or three people" who came in another vehicle.

The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Bamako on July 2 for a meeting with five Sahel countries, "is following the situation very closely," the presidency told AFP on Sunday.

'Increased threat of attacks'

Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest)", although no group has yet claimed responsibility.

The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month "of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent".

At a France-Africa summit in Bamako in January, the owner of Kangaba, Herve Depardieu, had complained about the "alarming security information" given by foreign consulates "which seriously disturb our love of life and our freedoms".

In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.

That attack was claimed by Al Qaeda's North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.

The Kangaba, located on the eastern edge of Bamako, boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools, according to its website.

State of emergency

A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months, but attacks are continuing. In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

But jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there. The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.

Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists. In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou. AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.

In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.

The United Nations has a 12,000-strong force in Mali known as MINUSMA, which began operations in 2013. It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed, including five on Saturday.

France also has 4,000 soldiers in its Bakhane force in five countries -- Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso  all of which are threatened by the jihadists across their porous borders.
By Sergei Karazy, Alkis Konstantinidis and Ahmed Rasheed

| MOSUL/BAGHDAD, Iraq

MOSUL/BAGHDAD, Iraq Islamic State fighters defended their remaining stronghold in the Old City of Mosul on Monday, moving stealthily along narrow back alleys as U.S.-backed Iraqi forces slowly advanced.The intensity of fighting was lower than on Sunday, when Iraqi forces announced the start of the assault on the Old City, a Reuters visuals team reported from near the frontlines. The historic district, and a tiny area to its north, are the only parts of the city still under the militants' control. Mosul used to be the Iraqi capital of the group, also known as ISIS.The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed alarm on Monday at the situation of the civilians in the Old City, estimated at more than 100,000 by the United Nations. Were seeing dozens of new patients a day, including children and the elderly," said Julia Schuerch, an ICRC emergency specialist in Mosul."For a heart-breakingly high number, it was simply too late; they died soon after reaching us, she said in a statement from the organisation calling for the evacuation of the wounded. "This is the final chapter" of the offensive to take Mosul, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, senior commanderin Mosul of Counter Terrorism Service.The militants are moving house to house through holes knocked in inner walls to avoid air surveillance, said Major-General Sami al-Arithi of the Counter Terrorism Service, the elite units spearheading the fighting north of the Old City. The Iraqi army estimates the number of Islamic State fighters at no more than 300, down from nearly 6,000 in the city when the battle of Mosul started on Oct. 17.The civilians trapped in the Old City, a densely-populated maze of narrow alleyways, have little food, water or medical supplies. "An estimated 50,000 children are in grave danger as thefighting in Mosul enters what is likely to be its deadliest

phase yet," Save the Children said in a statement."CALIPHATE" NEARS END

A U.S.-led international coalition is providing air andground support.The fall of Mosul would, in effect, mark the end of theIraqi half of the "caliphate" that Islamic State leader Abu Bakr

al-Baghdadi declared three years ago and which once covered swathes of Iraq and Syria.The Iraqi government initially hoped to take Mosul by theend of 2016, but the campaign took longer as militantsreinforced positions in civilian areas to fight back.Islamic State is using suicide car and motorbike bombs,booby traps and sniper and mortar fire against the troops.

Hundreds of civilians fleeing the Old City have been killedin the past three weeks, as Iraqi forces could not fully secureexit corridors.Islamic State snipers are shooting at families trying toflee on foot or by boat across the Tigris River, as part of atactic to keep civilians as human shields, according to the United Nations. The militants are also retreating in Syria, mainly in the face of a U.S.-backed Kurdish-led coalition. Its capital there, Raqqa, is under siege. About 850,000 people, more than a third of the pre-warpopulation of the northern Iraqi city, have fled, seeking refugewith relatives or in camps, according to aid groups.Iraq's Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi headed on Monday to Saudi Arabia, the first leg of a Middle East tour that will also include Iran and Kuwait, in a diplomatic effort to foster regional reconciliation and coordination against terrorism, his office said. (Writing by Maher Chmaytelli,; editing by Ralph Boulton and Ed Osmond)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis first meeting with Donald Trump on June 26 will highlight a 3 day overseas schedule that begins with a stopover in Portugal on June 24 and ends with a Netherlands visit on June 27.

Link: Your go-to guide of expert views on #ModiTrump summit

Its going to be a hectic working weekend for the entire Indian diplomatic corps in Washington D.C where prep is in full swing. Red eyed diplomats will be plenty - the Indian PM is known to work long hours and is a stickler for detail even in New Delhi and certainly during marquee visits to the US.

Blair House or Willard Hotel which is a short walk from the White House is where the Indian Prime Minister will most likely be staying.

On the morning of Sunday, June 25 is Modi's signature meeting with CEOs in Washington D.C and his afternoon will be spent in neighboring Virginia where he speaks to Indian community leaders around 2 pm EST.

Monday, June 26 is the Modi-Trump summit. The Indian Embassy has still not outed the timing of the meeting, saying details are still being worked out.

Yet, what we know from the White House suggests that the meeting will likely be after 10:30 am local time unless theres a surprise change in plan. US President gets his daily intelligence briefing at 10:30 am and thats generally been hard coded into the system. Most meetings happen after that. Working lunches for President Trump with incoming dignitaries are usually have a start time of around 11:45 am at the earliest.

Slowly, over the last week or so, it is becoming clearer that India is keen to get a signal on how Trump thinks about the country and the partnership rather than rush into conversations on a host of thorny issues.

As par for the course, Pakistan is likely to be on the table but H1Bs, Paris climate pull out etc may well not figure at all, experts are saying.

Back home, Opposition is piling on the pressure to deliver on hot button items - The PM should demand and obtain credible and firm assurances from the U.S. President that he will reverse his decision which discriminates against Indian professionals. He cannot return empty-handed, Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma said in New Delhi.

The asking rate will likely rise this week but Modi, a veteran of many Indo-US meetings, is unlikely to be distracted.

The tricky part is whether Trump will answer media questions post summit or not.

If he does that, all bets are off.
Dubai: A bombing in a Bahrain town  which is home to a prominent Shiite cleric  has killed one police officer and wounded two.

Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced the death in Diraz early Monday, blaming "terrorists" for the attack in a post on Twitter.

The February 14 Youth Coalition, which has claimed attacks in the past, posted a video online where it showed its masked members throwing gasoline bombs at police gathered near the home of Shiite cleric Isa Qassim.

The group is named after the date of the start of Bahrain's 2011 Arab Spring protests.

Bahrain is in the midst of a yearlong crackdown on all dissent in the Sunni-ruled island kingdom.

The Shiite-majority island is home to the US Navy's fifth fleet and an under-construction British naval base.
By Axel Bugge and Andrei Khalip

| PEDROGAO GRANDE, Portugal

PEDROGAO GRANDE, Portugal More than 1,000 firefighters were still battling Portugal's deadliest forest blaze on Monday after it killed dozens over the weekend, and a fireman died from his injuries in a hospital, bringing the death toll to at least 63.More than 70 people, including 13 firefighters, were taken to hospital on Monday with burns and injuries as the fires ravaged the central districts of Leiria and Castelo Branco.Prime Minister Antonio Costa, who on Sunday visited the affected a mountainous area about 200 kilometers (125 miles) northeast of Lisbon, called it the biggest human tragedy in Portugal in living memory.Despite government assurances that the first response by the emergency services was swift and adequate, media and residents questioned its efficiency and the strategic planning in a country which is used to wooded areas burning every year."So what failed this Saturday? Everything, as it has failed for decades," read a headline in the newspaper Publico. It blamed a lack of coordination between services in charge of fire prevention and firefighting and poor forestry reserve planning.Xavier Viegas, an expert on forest fires, said the blaze spread too quickly and violently for firefighters to respond in some villages, but the deaths have mainly shown shortcomings in communications to evacuate people in time.

At least half the victims died in their cars as they tried to flee along a local motorway. Many other bodies were found next to the road, suggesting they had abandoned their vehicles in panic. The firefighter who died on Monday had been helping people out of their cars when he was badly burned."It's still hard to identify what failed, but it's a bit of everything," Viegas said. "Obviously, certain things that should have been done had not been done - especially in communicating with the population, telling them about the danger levels, areas to be avoided."An online public petition demanding an investigation into possible failures by the authorities has gathered 440 signatures. Some local residents said they had been without the support of firefighters for hours as their homes burned. Many blamed depopulation of villages that left wooded areas untended.

Other countries prone to forest fires have systems in place to warn people of danger. Australia, for example, revised its fire warning system after fires killed 173 people in 2009 and now uses text messages and emergency broadcasts to warn people."There's an urgent need to organize that kind of alerting," Viegas said. "Here, at best, someone from the parish council goes knocking on doors telling people to leave."Armindo Antonio, 67, was evacuated with his family on Sunday evening by civil protection workers who came to his village. He has no idea when he can go back and said he had received no information from authorities.

"All of this is so difficult to understand," said Antonio, whose five family members had been housed in a packed old-age home with other evacuees. "It could have been our village."Civil protection commander Elisio Oliveira said the firefighting efforts were progressing well, but the fire was not yet under control. Water planes, including French and Spanish aircraft, flew overhead. Two army battalions were helping the emergency services."There is still a lot of forest that can burn," said Rui Barreto, deputy chief firefighter at the makeshift emergency services headquarters in Pedrogao Grande, where the blaze began on Saturday.Police said a lightning strike on a tree probably caused the blaze, in a region hit by an intense heat wave and dry, gusty winds that fanned the flames. However, the regional prosecutor still ordered a criminal investigation into the causes. Many forest fires in Portugal are caused by arson or carelessness. (Writing by Andrei Khalip, editing by Larry King)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Tehran: Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called "terror bases".

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were "in retaliation" for the 7 June attacks on Tehran claimed by Islamic State.

"Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of

terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed," the statement said.

It said the attack targeted "a command base of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor", Syria's oil-rich eastern province.

On 7 June, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, vowed to avenge the bloodshed.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was "promoting terrorist groups" in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of "volunteer" fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syria's conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
Photos: Hundreds March On Father's Day To Protest 'Not Guilty' Verdict In Philando Castile Killing

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jun 19, 2017 2:00PM



More than 200 people gathered and marched in Washington Park on Fathers Day afternoon to protest the acquittal of the cop who shot and killed Philando Castile, and to honor Ronald Ronnieman Johnson and other fathers were fatally shot by police.

Demonstrators in the peaceful protest shouted chants such as The whole damn system is guilty and What side are you on? The freedom side as the crowd marched north on Martin Luther King Drive, from E 53rd Street, at the western border of Washington Park.



A Fathers Day event intended to honor those who had been killed by police had been planned ahead of the verdict in the Castille trialwhich saw recently fired Minnesota cop Jeronimo Yanez acquitted on manslaughter and other charges in the 2016 shooting death of Castile. But the event took on its added dimension after Fridays widely decried verdict, Kofi Ademola of Black Lives Matters, told the crowd ahead of the march.

The march was hosted by Black Lives Matter Chicago and the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, and was supported by numerous other activist organizations, including Assatas Daughters and the #LetUsBreathCollective. Organizers were in attendance from the Womens March Chicago, which urged followers to participate ahead of the protest.



The rally before the march was held at East 53rd Street and Martin Luther King Drive, near where Ronald Ronnieman Johnson, a father of five, was shot in the back and killed by officer George Hernandez in 2014. (Hernandez was not charged.) Johnsons mother, Dorothy Holmes, was among the speakerswho also included Frank Chapman (NAARPR) and historian Barbara Ransbyand she lamented the death of her son at the hand of a trigger-happy racist cop.

[Johnson]s life did matter, she said. It mattered to a lot of people.

"We live in a racist society that completely and totally refuses to give black people justice," said Chapman.



The Fathers Day holiday added an extra poignancy to the day. During one of the alarming 46 times in which he was pulled over for traffic stops throughout his life, Philando Castile was shot in a suburb of St. Paul, MN, by Yanez as the daughter of his girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, sat in the backseat. Castile told Yanez he had a permit to carry a handgun and was reaching for his ID when he was shot. Reynolds live-streamed the immediate aftermath of the shooting, which prompted waves of protest in Minnesota and beyond.

Marchers on Sunday said they were disappointed by the acquittal but not surprised, even despite circumstances that seemed to point to a potential conviction.

Even in a situation that seemed cut and dried, caught on camera, plusand I dont play into the idea that if a person does something wrong in their life they deserve to be murderedbut there was nothing of that here. But we still got a not guilty verdictand its not surprising, said Ryan Watson, a West Side native.

Demonstrators marched from 53rd Street and King Drrive to a Real Men Cook charity event at Hales Franciscan High School (4930 S. Cottage Grove Ave.) before eventually marching back to Washington Park. The return included a stop at Dyett High School, where activist Jitu Brown spoke movingly about the 2015 hunger strike that helped keep the schools doors open in face of opposition from the city.

Related: Thousands Protest In St. Paul After Cop Who Killed Philando Castile Is Acquitted
Moscow: Russia suspended cooperation with the US in Syrian airspace on Monday a day after the US-led coalition shot down a Syrian jet.

The Russian defence ministry said in a statement that it "terminates cooperation with the US side within the framework of the Memorandum on Incident Prevention and Aviation Safety in operations in Syria from 19 June, and demands a thorough investigation by the US command (into the downing)", Xinhua reported.

According to the statement, a US F/A-18 fighter jet on Sunday shot down a Syrian Su-22 bomber, which was carrying out a combat mission in support of government troops conducting an offensive against the Islamic State in the vicinity of Raqqa, the group's stronghold.

The US Central Command said, however, that the Syrian plane bombed US-backed forces and the action against it was "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of coalition partnered forces."

In Monday's statement, the Russian defence ministry said it considered the downing of the Syrian warplane "a cynical violation of the sovereignty" of Syria, and "a gross violation of international law and, in fact, a military aggression against Syria."

It added that Russian warplanes were also operating in Syria's airspace at the moment of the attack, but the US-led coalition didn't use the existing communication channels to warn the Russian military.

From now on, all aircraft and drones of the coalition detected west of the Euphrates river will be tracked by Russian air- and ground-based air defence systems as targets, the ministry warned.
Dubai: Saudi Arabia says it has disrupted an attack on a major offshore oilfield.

A military statement published on Monday on the state-run Saudi Press Agency said three boats "bearing red and white flags" raced toward its Marjan offshore oil field.

The military said sailors fired warning shots and captured one of the boats while two others escaped in the assault on Friday. It said the captured boat "was loaded with weapons for (a) subversive purpose."

Saudi Arabia did not say who it suspected in the disrupted attack. The announcement comes after Iranian state television accused Saudi Arabia's coast guard of killing an Iranian fisherman on Friday.

In April, Saudi security forces said they thwarted an attempted attack on an oil distribution center involving an unmanned boat from Yemen loaded with explosives.
Bangkok: Six Thai soldiers were killed when their patrol vehicle hit a roadside bomb in the insurgency-plagued south on Monday, police said.

The bomb in Pattani province hit a pick-up truck carrying ten soldiers.

"The roadside bomb exploded before noon, killing six and injuring four," said Preuk Liengsuk, the police chief of Thung Yang Daeng district.

"We are still checking the scene," he told AFP by phone.

The Muslim-majority border region has been racked by violence for over a decade as ethnic Malay insurgents battle the government of Buddhist-majority Thailand for more autonomy.

Near-daily shooting and bomb attacks have claimed more than 6,800 lives since 2004, with both sides accused of rights abuses and atrocities.

Thailand's ruling junta, which took power in 2014, has tried to restart peace talks with the Muslim militants.

But the negotiations have failed to gain traction, while attacks continue across the region.

The Thai side is unconvinced that the rebel's representatives at the table can control foot soldiers, while the rebels do not believe the junta will concede political autonomy any time soon.

The last major bombing blamed on insurgents  who rarely claim attacks  left at least 40 people wounded outside a supermarket in Pattani in May.
By Tom Perry and Babak Dehghanpisheh

| BEIRUT

BEIRUT The United States and Iran have flexed their military muscles in unprecedented ways in Syria to deter attacks on their allies and interests, with Russia warning Washington on Monday it would treat any U.S.-led coalition planes in its area of operations as potential targets after the U.S. military downed a Syrian jet.Tensions escalated on Sunday as the U.S. military brought down the jet near Raqqa for bombing near U.S.-allied forces on the ground, and Iran launched missiles at Islamic State targets in eastern Syria - the first time each state has carried out such actions in the multi-sided Syrian war. While aimed at Islamic State, the Iranian strike was also a projection of military power into part of Syria identified as a top priority by Damascus and its allies, and followed a recent tussle with Washington over a section of the Syria-Iraq border. A pro-Damascus commander said it was "a message" to all sides in the war that could be repeated, commenting that both Tehran and Washington had set "red lines" in the last day.Russia, like Iran an ally of President Bashar al-Assad, issued a warning of its own to the United States in response to the downing of the Syrian jet, saying on Monday it would view as targets any planes flying west of the Euphrates River, though it stopped short of saying it would shoot any down.The tensions reflect mounting competition for areas of Syria where Islamic State (IS) insurgents are in retreat, leaving swathes of territory up for grabs and posing the question of what comes next for U.S. policy that is shaped first and foremost by the priority of vanquishing the jihadists.The United States said the Syrian army plane shot down on Sunday had dropped bombs near fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters battling to capture the city of Raqqa from IS.Russia's Defence Ministry responded on Monday by suspending cooperation with the United States aimed at avoiding air incidents over Syria, where the Russian air force is bombing in support of Assad's campaigns against rebels and IS.The Syrian army said the jet was shot down while flying a mission against Islamic State.

The SDF however accused the Syrian government on Monday of attacking its positions using planes, artillery and tanks. "If the regime continues attacking our positions in Raqqa province, we will be forced to retaliate," SDF spokesman Talal Silo said.The Syrian government this month marched into Raqqa province from the west but had avoided conflict with the U.S.-backed SDF until the latest incident."The SDF is getting big-headed," said the pro-Damascus military commander, a non-Syrian who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. "There could be problems between it and Soheil Hassan," said the commander, referring to the Syrian officer leading the government offensive in Raqqa province.Yezid Sayigh, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut, said the sides were establishing red lines in a fluid situation, and the Syrian government was "always testing and pushing the boundaries"."I don't think the Americans are testing the red lines. They are saying 'we have a red line here and if you are going to test it we will respond, but it doesn't mean we are now shifting strategy' because they also want to reassure the Russians."

IRAN SENDS "CLEAR MESSAGE"

The United States has said its recent actions against Syrian government forces and allied militia have been self-defensive in nature, aimed at stopping attacks on U.S.-led coalition forces or their local allies.These have included several air strikes against pro-government forces that have sought to advance towards a U.S. base in southeastern Syria near the border with Iraq, where the U.S. military has been training Syrian rebels to fight IS. The area is of strategic significance to Tehran as it seeks to secure a land corridor to its allies in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon and establish a "Shi'ite crescent" of influence that has long concerned U.S.-allied states in the Middle East.

The missiles fired by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday targeted IS in Deir al-Zor province, fast becoming the jihadists' last remaining foothold in Syria and a declared military priority of Tehran's allies in the Syrian government.The attacks have showcased the depth of Iran's military presence in Syria: Iranian drones launched from areas around Damascus allowed Revolutionary Guard commanders to assess the damage done by the missiles in real-time. Two top Revolutionary Guard commanders said that the strikes were intended to send a message to the perpetrators of militant attacks in Tehran last week - claimed by Islamic State - that killed 18 people, as well as their supporters."I hope that the clear message of this attack will be understood by the terrorists as well as their regional and international supporters," said Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Revolutionary Guards' aerospace unit, according to the website of Iranian state television.Six missiles with a range of between 650 to 700 kilometres (400-435 miles) were fired from western Iran, soaring over Iraqi territory and striking the targets in Deir al-Zor.State TV posted black and white aerial video on their website on Monday which they labelled as the moment of impact of the attack. A projectile can be seen hitting a building followed by thick black smoke billowing out. State TV repeatedly aired video footage of the beginning of the attack Monday, showing several missiles streaking across a dark night sky. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif defended the attack in a Twitter post on Monday. "Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defence & advances common global fight to eradicate (IS) & extremist terror," he wrote.Other Iranian officials were more blunt in their assessment of the attack. "This attack, before being a message for the terrorists, is a message for the supporters of terrorism in the region which are symbolized by the Saudi regime and the Americans," the state television website quoted Iranian parliamentarian Javad Karimi Qoddousi as saying. (Additional reporting by Laila Bassam and Ellen Francis in Beirut; writing by Tom Perry; editing by Mark Heinrich)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
By Tom Perry and Babak Dehghanpisheh

| BEIRUT

BEIRUT Russia, Iran and the United States are drawing new red lines for each other in Syria, with Moscow warning Washington on Monday it would treat any U.S.-led coalition planes in its area of operations as potential targets after the U.S. air force downed a Syrian jet.Tensions escalated on Sunday as the U.S. army brought down the jet near Raqqa and Iran launched missiles at Islamic State targets in eastern Syria - the first time each state has carried out such actions in the multi-sided Syrian war. A pro-Damascus commander said Tehran and Washington were drawing "red lines".Russia, like Iran an ally of President Bashar al-Assad, issued a warning of its own to the United States in response to the downing of the Syrian jet, saying on Monday it would view as targets any planes flying west of the Euphrates River, though it stopped short of saying it would shoot any down.The incidents reflect mounting competition for areas of Syria where Islamic State (IS) insurgents are in retreat, leaving swathes of territory up for grabs and posing the question of what comes next for U.S. policy that is shaped first and foremost by the priority of vanquishing the jihadists.The United States said the Syrian army plane shot down on Sunday had dropped bombs near fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters battling to capture the city of Raqqa from IS.Russia's Defence Ministry responded on Monday by suspending cooperation with the United States aimed at avoiding air incidents over Syria, where the Russian air force is bombing in support of Assad's campaigns against rebels and IS.The Syrian army said the jet was shot down while flying a mission against Islamic State.The SDF however accused the Syrian government on Monday of attacking its positions using planes, artillery and tanks. "If the regime continues attacking our positions in Raqqa province, we will be forced to retaliate," SDF spokesman Talal Silo said.The Syrian government this month marched into Raqqa province from the west but had avoided conflict with the U.S.-backed SDF until the latest incident.

"The SDF is getting big-headed," said the pro-Damascus military commander, a non-Syrian who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. "There could be problems between it and Soheil Hassan," said the commander, referring to the Syrian officer leading the government offensive in Raqqa province.IRAN SENDS "CLEAR MESSAGE"

The United States has said its recent actions against Syrian government forces and allied militia have been self-defensive in nature, aimed at stopping attacks on U.S.-led coalition forces or their local allies.These have included several air strikes against pro-government forces that have sought to advance towards a U.S. military base in southeastern Syria near the border with Iraq, where the U.S. military has been training rebels to fight IS.

The area is of strategic significance to Tehran as it seeks to secure a land corridor to its allies in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon and establish a "Shi'ite crescent" of influence that has long concerned U.S.-allied states in the Middle East.The missiles fired by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday targeted IS in Deir al-Zor province, fast becoming the jihadists' last remaining foothold in Syria and a declared military priority of Tehran's allies in the Syrian government.The attacks have showcased the depth of Iran's military presence in Syria: Iranian drones launched from areas around Damascus allowed Revolutionary Guard commanders to assess the damage done by the missiles in real-time. Two top Revolutionary Guard commanders said that the strikes were intended to send a message to the perpetrators of militant attacks in Tehran last week - claimed by Islamic State - that killed 18 people, as well as their supporters."I hope that the clear message of this attack will be understood by the terrorists as well as their regional and international supporters," said Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Revolutionary Guards' aerospace unit, according to the website of Iranian state television.

Six missiles with a range of between 650 to 700 kilometres (400-435 miles) were fired from western Iran, soaring over Iraqi territory and striking the targets in Deir al-Zor.State TV posted black and white aerial video on their website on Monday which they labelled as the moment of impact of the attack. A projectile can be seen hitting a building followed by thick black smoke billowing out. State TV repeatedly aired video footage of the beginning of the attack Monday, showing several missiles streaking across a dark night sky. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif defended the attack in a Twitter post on Monday. "Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense & advances common global fight to eradicate (IS) & extremist terror," he wrote.Other Iranian officials were more blunt in their assessment of the attack. "This attack, before being a message for the terrorists, is a message for the supporters of terrorism in the region which are symbolized by the Saudi regime and the Americans," the state television website quoted Iranian parliamentarian Javad Karimi Qoddousi as saying.Analysts say that more robust U.S. military action in Syria since President Donald Trump took office in January has resulted from his decision to give the military more autonomy in how it pursues the war on Islamic State. "The (Syrian) regime is always testing and pushing the boundaries," said Yezid Sayigh, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut."I don't think the Americans are testing the red lines. They are saying 'we have a red line here and if you are going to test it we will respond, but it doesn't mean we are now shifting strategy' because they also want to reassure the Russians." (Additional reporting by Laila Bassam and Ellen Francis in Beirut; writing by Tom Perry; editing by Mark Heinrich)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Tokyo: The US Navy on Monday said it identified all seven sailors killed after their destroyer was partially flooded following a collision with a container ship off Japan's coast at the weekend, confirming their deaths for the first time.

The crew were reported missing after Saturday's predawn collision, triggering a major US-Japanese search operation, with divers scouring damaged areas of the destroyer.

On Sunday, US authorities tacitly acknowledged there were no survivors as they ended the search, but declined to say how many bodies had been found until the families were notified.

The 154-metre (500-foot) Fitzgerald  commissioned in 1995 and deployed in the Iraq war in 2003  was pulled by a tugboat back to its base on Saturday in Yokosuka, southwest of Tokyo.

The navy said the bodies of the missing crew were found by the divers in flooded sleeping quarters.

"The remains of seven sailors previously reported missing were located in flooded berthing compartments, after divers gained access to the spaces," it said, adding that the deceased sailors ranged in age from 19 to 37.

Several other US crew members were injured in the accident and had to be evacuated by air to hospital, including the vessel's commanding officer Bryce Benson.

The accident happened 56 nautical miles (104 kilometres) southwest of Yokosuka, in a busy shipping channel that is a gateway to major container ports in Tokyo and nearby Yokohama.

There have reportedly been several collisions involving large vessels in the area over the past five years.

The container ship, the 222-metre Philippine-flagged ACX Cystal, came into port with large scrapes on its bow, but none of its 20 crew were injured, Japan's coastguard said. The accident is under investigation.
New York: North Korea claimed Sunday that United States officials forcibly seized a diplomatic package from one of their delegations at John F Kennedy Airport, calling it an "illegal and heinous act of provocation".

The official Korean Central News Agency said officials were returning from a United Nations conference on rights of persons with disabilities on Friday when they were "literally mugged".

"At the airport, a group of more than 20 including those who claimed to be from the US Department of Homeland Security and the police made a violent assault like gangsters to take away the diplomatic package from the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) diplomats who were in possession of a valid diplomatic courier certificate," a spokesman for North Korea's foreign ministry told the news agency.

"As the diplomats vigorously resisted, they grabbed the diplomatic package using physical violence and made off," the North Korean spokesman said.

United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesman David Lapan said on Sunday that its officers did seize multiple media items and packages from three North Koreans who, according to the United States State Department, were not accredited members of North Korea's Mission to the United Nations and had no diplomatic immunity.

"The package in question had no diplomatic protection from inspection," said Lapan, adding that North Koreans attempted to physically retrieve the items but were prevented from doing so by DHS officers.

"The reported aggression was initiated by the North Koreans," Lapan said. "The individuals were released without further incident but subsequently refused to board their departing flight without the items that had been seized."

It wasn't immediately clear why the items were taken.

The incident comes days after 22-year-old American college student Otto Warmbier was returned to his home state of Ohio in a coma with severe brain damage after being imprisoned in North Korea for 17 months.

North Korea claims the coma resulted from botulism and a sleeping pill, but United States doctors said they found no evidence of active botulism, a rare, serious illness caused by contaminated food or a dirty wound.
Damascus: An American fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane that the US-led coalition said attacked its allies in the fight against the Islamic State group in the war-torn country.

The escalation comes as Syria's six-year-old war becomes ever more complex, with US forces and their allies converging on the northern Islamic State bastion of Raqqa in close proximity to Russian-backed regime troops.

Further complicating matters, Iran said it launched missile strikes Sunday against "terror bases" in Syria's northeastern Deir Ezzor province in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital claimed by Islamic State.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) - an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters - is battling to oust the jihadists from Raqqa, and broke into the Islamic State stronghold city last week.

Government forces are not involved in the battle for Raqqa, but they are advancing in an area southwest of the city, skirting around SDF fighters, their eyes set on the oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor.

"Aircraft from the 'international coalition' targeted one of our fighter planes in the Resafa region of southern Raqqa province this afternoon while it was conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group," said the army.

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

The US-led coalition later confirmed it shot down the Syrian warplane it said had dropped bombs near SDF forces.

"At 6:43 pm, a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters... in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E

Super Hornet," the Combined Joint Task Force said in a statement.

It said that two hours earlier, forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad had attacked the SDF in Jaaydine, south of Tabqa, "wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town".

Coalition aircraft stopped the advance of Syrian pro-regime troops with a "show of force," the coalition added.

The Syrian army said the "aggression" against it came as government troops and their allies made ground in the battle against Islamic State "on several fronts in the badiya".

It was referring to a large stretch of desert that extends over some 90,000 square kilometres from central Syria to the borders with Iraq and Jordan to the east and southeast.

Since 2015, much of the badiya has been held by the jihadist group, but Syria's army has been chipping away at it for months.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the fighting broke out in two villages, Jaaydine and Shouwayhane, some 40 kilometres south of Raqqa.

The Observatory said the clashes came after regime troops had reached the edges of Resafa, also in the same area, as part of an offensive to reach Deir Ezzor.

"The regime is trying to reach the oil province of Deir Ezzor through Raqqa," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.

The regime has lost control of many oil and gas fields since the start in 2011 of Syria's conflict, especially in the provinces of Homs and Deir Ezzor.

Most of the province is held by Islamic State, including parts of the provincial capital, Deir Ezzor city, and the jihadists are besieging government-held parts of the city.

SDF fighters entered Raqqa on 6 June after months of heavy clashes to encircle it, and the US-led coalition has been backing them with air strikes, equipment and special forces advisers.

Since then they have seized a few neighbourhoods, including one in the east and one in the west, and are battling to push into the Old City of Raqqa.

An estimated 300,000 civilians were believed to have been living under Islamic State rule in Raqqa, including 80,000 who fled there from other parts of the country.

Islamic State seized Raqqa in 2014, transforming it into the de facto Syrian capital of its self-declared "caliphate".

Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard said they fired Sunday "medium-range missiles" targeting "a terror base" in Deir Ezzor "in retaliation" for the 7 June attacks in Tehran claimed by Islamic State.

Seventeen people were killed when gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the Iranian capital.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

It was the first missile attack by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

Senior Iranian officials had put the blame on Riyadh after the attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was "promoting terrorist groups" in Iran, while the Guard vowed to avenge the bloodshed.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of "volunteer" fighters recruited among its own nationals, and among Shiite communities in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

More than 3,20,000 people have been killed in Syria since the conflict began with anti-government protests in March 2011 before turning into a complex war involving regional and international players
One man was killed and eight people hospitalised when a van ran into pedestrians near a mosque in north London in an incident that is being investigated by counter-terrorism officers, police said on Monday. The 48-year-old male driver of the van "was found detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police," a police statement said.

Muslim leaders said worshippers were mown down after leaving a mosque. Police said in a statement there were "a number of casualties", adding that they were called to reports of "a vehicle in collision with pedestrians" at 00:20 am (2320 GMT).

"We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims," the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body, said on Twitter. Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, said the van had "intentionally" run over people leaving night prayers for the holy month of Ramadan.

However, IANS report quoted the the MCB saying that at least three to four persons were reportedly killed. The information has not been independently verified by Firstpost.

An AFP reporter could see a helicopter overhead and several emergency vehicles at the scene on Seven Sisters Road, a busy thoroughfare. Police, including armed officers, could be seen manning a wide cordon around the area. Others searched the area with sniffer dogs.

A group of Muslim men could be seen praying on the pavement nearby. Traffic was shut down along a one-kilometre section of Seven Sisters Road. "We saw lots of people shouting and lots of people injured," David Robinson, 41, who arrived just after the accident, told AFP.

Cynthia Vanzella, who lives near the scene, said on Twitter: "Horrible to watch police officers doing cardiac massage at people on the floor, desperately trying to save them. I just hope they did."

MCB deputy head Miqdaad Versi said the incident happened "outside the Muslim Welfare House", which is on Seven Sisters Road near the mosque. The London Ambulance Service said: "We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist responses teams to the scene.

"Our priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure that those most in need are treated first and taken to hospital." Police described it as a "major incident".

'Evil violence'

Finsbury Park mosque was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has entirely changed in recent years under new management. Its former imam Abu Hamza was jailed for life in New York on terrorism charges in 2015.

He preached there from 1997 to 2003 before being jailed for inciting violence. He was later extradited to the United States. In 2015, the mosque was one of around 20 that took part in an open day organised by the MCB to promote better understanding of Islam following Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks in Paris.

Despite the change in leadership and new focus on community relations, the mosque reported it had received a string of threatening emails and letters in the wake of the Paris attacks.

"If this attack is confirmed as a deliberate terrorist attack then this should be classed as an act of terrorism," said Mohammed Shafiq, head of the Ramadhan Foundation community group.

"The British Muslim community requires all decent people to stand with us against this evil violence," he said, adding that "rampant Islamophobia has been on the rise for a number of years".

Cage, a Muslim human rights group, said there had been "an epidemic rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes".

"We urge all to remain calm and do their utmost not to inflame an already volatile and distressing situation," it said in a statement.

Spike in anti-Muslim crime

Monday's incident in London follows an Islamist-inspired attack on 3 June in which three militants wearing fake suicide vests ran over pedestrians and went on a stabbing spree in bars in the London Bridge area.

They killed eight people before being shot dead by police. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said following that attack that there had been a 40-percent increase in racist incidents in the city and a fivefold increase in the number of anti-Muslim incidents.

On his Facebook page, Khan at the time called on Londoners "to pull together, and send a clear message around the world that our city will never be divided by these hideous individuals who seek to harm us and destroy our way of life".

Britain has seen two other attacks this year. On 22 March, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a police officer guarding the British parliament to death before being shot dead. Five people were killed in the attack.

On 22 May, a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a pop concert in Manchester, killing 22 people.
By Tom Miles

| GENEVA

GENEVA A "negative, xenophobic" wave of anti-refugee populism is receding in Europe and such sentiment will go the same way in the United States too, a veteran humanitarian worker told Reuters on Monday.Jan Egeland, who heads the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), welcomed election results in several European countries, saying voters must not allow politicians to demonise vulnerable people who had fled their homes.Egeland, a former United Nations humanitarian affairs chief and emergency relief coordinator, made his comments after the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR and the NRC released figures showing there were a record 65.6 million displaced people around the world, including 25.4 million refugees.The European and U.S. public had shown support for refugees in 2015, he said in an interview. However, the mood had shifted dramatically in 2016, the year when Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, promising to build a wall on the Mexican border and to ban Muslims temporarily from entering the country."Stories circulated that terrorism was associated with refugees, which is wrong. Populist politicians overwhelmed every other politician, who became timid beyond belief. We refugee workers were not able to hold our ground, so we lost the battle for public and political opinion," Egeland said.

Egeland saw the tide turning. "The negative, xenophobic populist wave of 2016, I see that ending now in 2017, and thankfully several of the elections in Europe have shown that."He did not name any of the countries, but in the past year far-right anti-immigration candidates have lost elections in Austria, the Netherlands and France.

"I think there will be also a correction in the United States - that decent normal people will not allow politicians to blame vulnerable women and children who are fleeing for all sorts of ills," he added.Egeland, a 40-year veteran of humanitarian work, said Uganda had taken more refugees per day in the past year than many European countries accepted in 12 months.He also criticised some governments for trying to erect physical or other barriers, such as Australia's offshore detention centres on Pacific islands, against migrants.

"All alarm bells should be going," he said. "We have a world in great instability, and it's not going away because Europe and the United States and Australia are frantically building higher walls," he said.Letting inequality fester was dangerous and destabilising. "Tens of millions of youths will get the message that you will not really get a job, a legal residency, legal status, a family, a future," he said. "What kind of signal is that, to tens of millions of youths that want to contribute to society? That's why we have to turn this around."Egeland called for more investment in diplomacy and peacemaking, and more help for refugees trying to return to their homes or integrate into new societies - especially for those needing relocation to a safe new home. (Reporting by Tom Miles; editing by David Stamp)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Supreme Court To Hear Case That Could Set Seismic Precedent Against Gerrymandering

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jun 19, 2017 4:33PM



U.S. Supreme Court Justice / Getty Images / Photo: Alex Wong

In a case that could have monumental repercussions on the American political landscape, the Supreme Court announced on Wednesday that it would hear a Wisconsin gerrymandering case that could establish a standard for what constitutes unfair electoral maps.

Justices in the past have struck down electoral maps as illegal in the past. But those instances hinged on racial makeup of districts, whereas the Wisconsin case hinges more explicitly on partisan gerrymandering.

SCOTUS will review Wisconsin political gerrymandering dispute  SCOTUSblog (@SCOTUSblog) June 19, 2017

"Although a majority of the court has suggested that states can violate the Constitution if they draw legislative districts primarily to benefit one political party, the justices have never been able to identify the specific point at which states cross the constitutional line. In this case, a lower court held that Wisconsin had indeed crossed that line," Steve Vladeck, professor of law at the University of Texas School of Law, told CNN.

The original case, Gill v. Whitford , was prompted after GOP lawmakers in Wisconsin in 2010, having recently taken hold of both the state legislature and governorship, drew up their new hyper-partisan, gerrymandered State Assembly electoral map. As Daily Kos notes, the Wisconsin GOP took a sweeping majority in the Assembly in 2012 even though Obama carried the state by seven points and more total votes went to Democratic candidates for state-lawmaker offices that Republicans. A divided panel ruled that the maps violated the constitution.

A federal three-judge panel rightfully held that Wisconsin lawmakers drew maps for the benefit of their own political party, with little regard for the will of the voters, said Paul Smith, of Campaign Legal Center, who will argue the case at the Supreme Court, in a statement. Partisan gerrymandering of this kind is worse now than at any time in recent memory. The Supreme Court has the opportunity to ensure the maps in Wisconsin are drawn fairly, and further, has the opportunity to create ground rules that safeguard every citizens right to freely choose their representatives.

Former President Barack Obama has spoken out against the toxic effects of gerrymandered district maps. He's reportedly taking a more active role with the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, which advocates for redistricting reform amid what many view as lopsidedly partisan legislative maps.

The case will be argued in the term that begins in October.
The 6th China Critical Cardiac Diseases Conference under the theme of "Healthy China, a Year of Heart" convened in Beijing from June 17 to 18 to present the progress made in the field of critical cardiac diseases in recent years and discuss directions of its future development in China.

Professor Zhang Haitao gives a keynote report at the conference. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]



The concept of critical cardiac diseases has been put forward as a discipline since 2012. Over the five years, the discipline has established its concepts, theoretical systems, academic teams, fundamental and local academic institutions.

At the Critical Cardiac Diseases Forum, the most influential forum in the field of critical cardiac diseases, Professor Zhang Haitao, the founder and chairman of the con-ference, gave a keynote report titled "The Supporting Theoretical Systems of Critical Cardiac Diseases: Power Brought by Unified Concepts."

In the report, he introduced nine theoretical supporting systems of critical cardiac diseases and the core concept for treating critical cardiac diseases.

He stated that it was the sense of mission and responsibility as well as the actions of those who has been endeavored to make progress in this field that promoted the discipline. "Healthy China: A Year of Heart" was not a slogan but a plan and path with theoretical support.

He also called for his counterparts to pursue for concepts that can be well received and widely promoted and practice the theories in work scenarios to drive the discipline forward by leaps and bounds.

Dr Li Yijiang, director of the cardiovascular surgery department at the Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University, said the discipline of critical cardiac diseases is a new branch of intensive care medicine and also an interdiscipline.

"The patients hardly know how to differentiate between the internal medicine department and the surgical department under the traditional categories, but they can tell whether their diseases are critical or not," he said.

Li pointed out that as medicine knowledge and resources increase, many people have realized the dismerit of the tradtional categories, and that is exactly the reason why the new discipline receives more and more recognition.

The forum also invited a host of academicians from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, including Fan Daiming, Gu Xiaosong, Zhan Qimin and Han Demin, to give their perspectives on the reform on medical and health system, innovation in the discipline of critical cardiac diseases centering on the conference topic.

Meanwhile, 13 sub-forums as well as the 3rd China-International Intensive Care Medicine Conference and the 2nd China Cardiac Rehabilitation Conference were held. A total of 200 experts and scholars attended various academic activities and engaged in heated discussions at the sub-forums.

At the main forum, 11 experts were elected the 2016 leading figures in the field of critical cardiac diseases, receiving intensive attention from the participants of the conference.
Zhang Fuhai, president of CIPG, addresses the signing ceremony for cooperation between CIPG and BFSU. [Photo by Zhao Na/China.org.cn]

China International Publishing Group (CIPG) is seeking to extend its influence in the international cultural arena in partnership with Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), one of China's most prestigious linguistic schools.

The two sides, hoping to develop a close relationship designed to enhance China's voice in the international community, signed an agreement in Beijing on June 16.

According to Zhang Fuhai, president of CIPG, the two organizations may have more to cooperate.

He said that CIPG is the oldest and largest professional cross-cultural communication institute in the country, while BFSU is an eminent school with a long history and rich language resources among domestic universities.

"Despite their different functions, the two organizations should make full use of their advantages to jointly assume responsibility to present China's stories, voices and images and enhance China's discourse power and influence in the international community," Zhang said.

With courses covering 84 foreign languages, BFSU enjoys high prestige rarely surpassed by domestic universities in terms of size and diversity of linguistic education, particularly those of less-widely used languages, said Peng Long, president of BFSU.

Regarding cooperation with CIPG, Peng said, "It is an historic moment [in which] we are both inspired and encouraged."

In addition to conventional language education, BFSU has explored multi-disciplinary majors, such as international journalism, business and law. Besides, it has set up 22 Confucius Institutes abroad.

CIPG Vice President Wang Gangyi said, "We are confident in pressing ahead with cooperative programs one after another through a pragmatic approach." Wang is also one of the initiators of the cooperation.

The two sides are dedicated to building personnel pools of those with a good command of foreign languages as well as competent in journalism and new media technologies.

The exchange, focusing on faculty, students and CIPG staff in the form of internships, continued education and symposiums, such as research for handling diverse cultures under the Belt and Road Initiative, will complement the first-hand experience of translation via the China Academy of Translation.
With travelers heightened concerns over safety, some Americans have chosen not to go to Europe, but for those that are continuing with plans to travel to the region, there are things that they can do to protect themselves. Former Green Beret Ben Collins offers some tips for staying safe when traveling.

I tell, even within my own company, individuals that are going over to Europe, that they have to constantly be aware, Collins told the FOX Business Networks Neil Cavuto.

Collins first tip was to know where the closest U.S. embassy or consulate is in the country you are traveling too.

Number one, they should always have a contact information of either an embassy or a consulate. You know, they should do their homework and read up around the location.

According to Collins, whether in Europe or here in the U.S., people need to be aware of their surroundings.

They need to pull themselves out of their phones, you know, you go onto, you know, the New York subway, or, you know, just walking on down the streets. People are just completely engrossed in their phones, they are tuning out the rest of the world and thats dangerous.

And look, your gut tells you, if you see something that looks out of place and doesnt look right, dont be afraid to say something to, you know, to the nearest, you know law authority.

Although Collins says his company has continued to send employees to Europe, but for many people the recent attacks may lead them to choose to travel elsewhere.

If its a choice, where do I, where can I go for vacation, people might be looking to someplace where there hasnt been any terror attack.
Italys premier told reporters Monday that he plans to pressure President Trump at next month's G-20 meeting to re-think his decision to pull out of the Paris climate accord.

On the occasion of the next G-20, in two weeks, we will renew the pressure on the U.S. president to review his positions on the Paris climate accords, Paolo Gentiloni said during a sustainable energy event in Italy, reported the Associated Press.

Trump is expected to attend the annual G-20 summit next month in Hamburg, Germany, where he will be joined by more than twenty heads of states or government, many of whom have committed to the now 194-nation pact aimed at fighting gas emissions and climate change. The United States joined Syria and Nicaragua in declining to join the pact.

Last month, Trump said his decision to withdraw from the historic deal that former President Obama signed in 2015 was because it was very unfair to American workers and costing us jobs.

"We're getting out. And we will start to renegotiate and we'll see if there's a better deal. If we can, great. If we can't, that's fine," Trump said during a press conference on June 1st.

After his announcement, many world leaders condemned Trumps decision on social media.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau immediately took to Twitter saying he was deeply disappointed with the decision, while Scotlands First Minister Nicole Sturgeon called the decision irresponsible. Prime Minister of Denmark Lars Rasmussen tweeted that it was a sad day for the world.
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The F-35s powerful display at the Paris Air Show on Monday was more than a pitch to would-be buyers. The fighter jet sends a signal to NATO allies that the U.S. is committed to keeping the alliance strong, despite any rifts over defense spending.

President Donald Trump has called on other NATO nations to meet targets for spending on their militaries, arguing that the U.S. has been forced to bear the brunt of NATOs costs. His criticism reportedly created some uneasiness among allies, but multiple countries including Germany and Italy have pledged to increase military investments in response.

The cutting-edge F-35, Lockheed Martins (NYSE:LMT) latest stealthy aircraft, soared through the skies above Paris on Monday in its first-ever full aerial demonstration. On the sidelines of the event, Brigadier General Select Todd Canterbury said the F-35s performances at the air show this week are designed to "showcase the capability to all of our European partners and NATO allies" and "to reassure them that we are committed to NATO 100 percent and that we have got the capability to respond to any action necessary," he told the Associated Press.

Canterbury, director of the U.S. Air Force F-35 Integration Office at the Pentagon, also spoke about recent problems that grounded F-35s at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

Since May 2, F-35 pilots on five occasions reported symptoms of oxygen deprivation he said. The Air Force says the F-35's backup oxygen system worked in each instance, and the pilots were able to land the plane safely.

"It could range to anything from headaches, to nausea, to color-blindness," Canterbury told the AP.

Planes were subsequently grounded at Luke. A team of engineers, test pilots, medics and others experts are "digging into this problem 24 hours a day," to try to identify the cause, Canterbury said.

"It could be lack of oxygen. It could be too much oxygen, too much carbon dioxide."

There have been similar incidents "across a number of bases, but not in clusters like we saw at Luke."

The local commander at Luke will decide when the planes can fly again, he said. Canterbury said the pilots will "start flying as soon as they can. They are ready."

Luke is a training base for F-35 pilots. Operational units have not had such issues, he said.

"It's still too early to tell the root cause," he said. "An airplane in development, such as this, will have teething problems."

The F-35 flew briefly at the Farnborough Air Show last year but chose Paris for its worldwide debut acrobatic demonstration.

It roared off Le Bourget airport's tarmac into a vertical climb, clawing at the air with howls from its 40,000 pounds of thrust. A series of loops and gravity-defying maneuvers then showed off its stunning maneuverability, with the jet turning corners so sharply that it seemed to carve a square in the sky. Looping back around, it slowed to a crawl above the airport  a trick that in a dog-fight could force faster pursuers to zoom past it and become the hunted, and which Tom Cruise famously showed off in "Top Gun."

"This is a beastly airplane," said chief F-35 test pilot Alan Norman.

Eight countries are partners of the program and are taking F-35s: Britain, Australia, Italy, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Canada, and Turkey.

Three other nations have bought F-35s: Japan, Israel and South Korea.

Canterbury said Germany, Belgium and Singapore have requested information about the F-35, a potential first step toward possible purchases.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The European Union has approved 377 million euros ($420 million) in state aid from France and Germany for the development of a new Airbus helicopter.

EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said Monday that the subsidies will boost private investment in the project and "help bring a new generation of innovative heavy helicopters to the market" without distorting competition in the 28-nation bloc.

Vestager said the X6 helicopter project exceeds the self-financing capacity of Airbus, allowing for state aid to go ahead.

Airbus is a multinational aerospace company in which several European states, including France, Germany and Spain, own a stake.
Hudsons Bay has found itself the target of activist pressure after failing in recent months to strike a deal with struggling U.S. department-store chains Neiman Marcus and Macys (NYSE:M) to help better position the brands in a challenging retail environment.

On Monday, Land & Buildings Investment Management sent a letter to Hudsons Bays board of directors, urging them to consider maximizing shareholder value by monetizing or repurposing its real estate portfolio or allowing management to take the Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue operator private.

Land & Buildings argued the value of Hudsons Bays real estate -- which the company itself once valued at 35 Canadian dollars per share  could be worth up to four times the current share price of 8.88 Canadian dollars, and implored the company to take a hard look at its properties, including the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship building across from Rockefeller Center in New York City.

Is the best use of this location truly a department store? What about a hotel? Or office? Or boutique retail stores the likes of Apple and Gucci? Or an Internet retailer looking to go upscale through a bricks-and-mortar presence as Amazon appears to be doing with its purchase of Whole Foods, Land & Buildings wondered.

Earlier this month, after posting a first quarter net loss of $221 million and a 5.4% drop in same-store digital sales, Hudsons Bay launched what it called its transformation plan aimed at generating total annual cost savings of 350 million Canadian dollars by increasing focus on online channels, optimizing the in-store experience for customers, and eliminating 2,000 employees.

The strategic pivot comes amid upheaval in the retail sector as many giants in the industry battle against growing pressures of the consumer move to e-commerce shopping. This year alone, many brands including childrens apparel retailer Gymboree, Payless ShoeSource, and the Limited have declared bankruptcy, while others like JCPenney (NYSE:JCP), Sears (NYSE:SHLD), and Macys have announced layoffs and outlined strategic plans to adapt to changing consumer shopping preferences.

Hudsons Bay attempted to take advantage of the tumult to add to its portfolio of American brands, but talks with Macys this year about a tie up never progressed and sources told the Wall Street Journal discussions with Neiman Marcus recently fell apart over price. Indeed, Neiman last week said any discussions about a takeover were terminated and it would remain a privately-held company.

To date, the only result of these efforts has been the stock declining nearly 25% since the deal talks surfaced, and the company announcing last Thursday that it would be undertaking a massive $350 [Canadian] restructuring to realign its own business to get ahead of the changing retail landscape, Land & Buildings founder and CEO Jonathan Litt said in his letter Monday.

While the activist, which holds a roughly 4.3% stake in Hudsons Bay, sees those efforts as positive for the overall business, it maintained the next logical step would be to aggressively redevelop the companys real estate  including some of its irreplaceable crown jewel locations.

Responding to the letter, Hudsons Bay said it is reviewing the content and will respond in due course.
Jaguar Land Rover said Monday it will hire 5,000 employees to meet demand and accelerate the development of new technologies.

The British luxury car maker, which partnered with ride-sharing service Lyft last week, plans to add 1,000 electronic and software engineers. It also expects to hire 4,000 people in other areas such as manufacturing, mostly in Britain.

Jaguar Land Rovers hiring plans helped alleviate some of the uncertainty surrounding the start of Brexit talks between the U.K. and the European Union. Officials from both sides were set to begin negotiations Monday amid a decline in business confidence among U.K. companies, according to surveys.

Earlier this month, the U.K.s Conservatives were forced to seek a coalition government after the Conservatives lost seats in an election that left the party short of a majority in parliament. Prime Minister Theresa May had called an early national election in hopes of locking in a larger majority ahead of Brexit talks.

Jaguar Land Rover, a subsidiary of Indias Tata Motors (NYSE:TTM), employs more than 40,000 people worldwide and builds nearly one-third of the 1.7 million cars that Britain produces each year.

The automakers search for electrical and software engineers coincides with the launch of the Jaguar I-Pace, an all-electric SUV thats set to arrive later this year starting in Europe. The I-Pace has begun production at a third-party factory in Austria, although Jaguar Land Rover has said it would like to build electric vehicles in the U.K. Jaguar Land Rover plans to have an electric option for its entire lineup by 2020.
Lockheed Martinas (NYSE:LMT) F-35 made its first aerial demonstration on Monday at the Paris Air Show, as the defense contractor looks to ink a blockbuster sale for hundreds of the stealth fighter jets.

The F-35 flew late in the afternoon in Paris, where aircraft makers gather each year to show off their latest models and score new orders from airlines and militaries. An F-35Aathe model designed for the U.S. Air Forceatook off in a vertical climb, then made a series of loops, twists and other dramatic maneuvers. In another impressive display, the stealth fighter abruptly cut its throttle to slowly float through the air, simulating the F-35as capabilities in a dogfight.

Video of the demonstration was published by Lockheed Martin on social media:

F-35 demos are scheduled throughout the week at the Paris Air show, which runs Monday through Sunday.

Watch the latest video at video.foxbusiness.com

The F-35as air show debut comes as Lockheed Martin is reportedly nearing a $37 billion deal that would send 440 F-35 Lightning II multirole fighters to 11 nations, including the U.S., according to Reuters. It would mark the largest sale ever for the warplane.

Billie Flynn, Lockheed Martinas test pilot who will fly the F-35 in Paris, told Aviation Week that awe are going to crush years of misinformation about what this aircraft is capable of doing.a The flight on Monday marked the F-35as debut in a full acrobatic demonstration for potential buyers, 10 years after it first took to the skies.

Lockheed Martin has displayed some of the F-35as advanced capabilities, such as vertical landings, at other events like the Farnborough International Airshow. Also, while this week is the F-35as debut in Paris, executives involved in the F-35 program have attended the renowned air show in past years.

Rumors had swirled earlier this year that the Paris Air Show didnat invite the F-35 for a flight demonstration. The news didnat come as a complete surprise. France doesnat plan to buy any of the jets for its military, and Lockheedas F-22 Raptor, a twin-engine stealth fighter, has never made an appearance there. Those rumors were put to rest in May when officials confirmed that the F-35 received an invitation.

The F-35, which was plagued by delays and cost overruns, has experienced another hiccup. Since early May, five F-35 pilots have reported symptoms consistent with hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation, after flying five different F-35 jets. The backup oxygen system worked correctly in all five aircraft.

Luke Air Force Base in Arizona has been investigating the issue since at least June 9, when it grounded all F-35As. The Air Force continues to search for an answer, but last week, officials said flights could resume as early as Tuesday.
Oil prices fell about 1 percent on Monday to a seven-month low as market players saw more signs that rising crude production in the United States, Libya and Nigeria undercut OPEC-led efforts to support the market with output curbs.

"We're seeing more tankers used for storage and more crude from West Africa and Europe being offered into the U.S. Gulf Coast at the same time the Gulf Coast has been an exporter of light sweet crude," said Andrew Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates in Houston.

"These are all signs of an oversupplied market."

Brent <LCOc1> futures for August fell 46 cents, or 1 percent, to settle at $46.91 a barrel, their lowest since Nov. 29, the day before the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries agreed to cut output for the first six months of 2017.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude <CLc1> futures for July dropped 54 cents, or 1.2 percent, to settle at $44.20 per barrel, the lowest close since Nov. 14. The July contract will expire on Tuesday, and August will become the front month.

Both benchmarks are down more than 15 percent since late May, when producers led by OPEC extended by nine months their pledge to cut output by 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd).

There were still almost 70,000 WTI contracts for July outstanding at the end of trade on Friday, which would require delivery of about 70 million barrels ofoil to Cushing, Oklahoma after Tuesday's expiration.

"Some of the pressure on Monday is because it is hard to get rid of that many (WTI) contracts in just two days," said Phil Davis, managing partner at PSW Investments in Woodland Park, New Jersey, noting "very few traders actually want to take physical delivery."

Traders noted the Brent front-month contract was at the highest premium since late May over the same WTI contract <WTCLc1-LCOc1>.

OPEC supplies jumped in May as output recovered in Libya and Nigeria, two countries exempt from the production cut agreement.

Libya's oil production has risen more than 50,000 bpd after the state oilcompany settled a dispute with Germany's Wintershall, a Libyan source told Reuters.

Analysts said rising U.S. crude production has fed the global glut. Data on Friday showed a record 22nd consecutive week of increases in U.S. oil rigs.

Investment bank Goldman Sachs said if the U.S. rig count holds, fourth-quarter domestic oil production would rise substantially.

There are also signs of stalling demand growth in Asia, the world's biggestoil-consuming region.

Japan's customs-cleared crude imports fell 13.5 percent in May from a year earlier. India took in 4.2 percent less crude in May than the year before.

(Additional reporting by Libby George in London and Henning Gloystein in Singapore; Editing by Louise Heavens and David Gregorio)
Rhode Island wants to be the next proving ground for self-driving cars, joining a growing list of other states that are willing to give pilot programs a green light.

Michigan, Arizona, California and other state have granted permission to certain companies to test self-driving vehicles on their roads. Rhode Island transportation officials on Monday proposed that automakers and Silicon Valley firms can use highway shoulder lanes, the University of Rhode Islands campus or Quonset Point, an industrial seaport, to test self-driving vehicles. Other suggestions included areas of Providence and Pawtucket.

Rhode Island also has its sights on futuristic transportation. The states memo to companies noted the potential development of a high-speed intercity and inter-suburb transporter technology, similar to Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musks "hyperloop" concept.

The state Department of Transportation has put out a request seeking ideas from developers of autonomous and internet-connected vehicles and other "revolutionary" transportation technology. State officials held an informational meeting Monday.

Transportation officials say they're still in the early stages of scoping out how Rhode Island could adopt cutting-edge transportation systems and prepare its workforce for inevitable changes in how people move around.

"We're thinking about the employment implications," said Shoshana Lew, the transportation agency's chief operating officer. "The transition is going to happen. Technology is changing the way that people get around. We would rather get ahead of it than have it be something that takes people by surprise."

The state is encouraging companies and academic researchers to start coming up with ideas this summer ahead of a planned exposition in the fall. They're likening Rhode Island to Singapore, which has used its position as a dense city-state to become a real-world testing hub for self-driving cars.

Experimentation is also picking up in neighboring Massachusetts, where three companies now have permission to test self-driving vehicles in Boston's Seaport District.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
More than 100 CEOs and corporate executives sent a letter to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) Monday, urging lawmakers to resist the Trump administrationas plan to privatize the nationas air traffic control system.

aAs members of the business community who depend on our nationas air traffic control (ATC) system, we are writing to express our opposition to turning it over to a private board,a the letter, obtained by FOX Business, read.

Instead of removing authority from the public sector and assigning it to a private board, the business leaders propose amending the current program through atargeted solutions.a Privatizing the system, they say, could lead to discrimination and the rise of the rule of special interests in the skies.

aWe stand by the belief and promise from the federal government to all Americans that our nationas airspace belongs to the public, and every person, business and community should have fair and equitable access, not just a few special interests in select cities and metropolitan areas," said the letter. "Equal access to our nationas airspace and airports allows businesses to thrive."

Business leaders who signed on to the note included Scotts Miracle-Gro CEO Jim Hagedorn, Continental Resources (NYSE:CLR) chairman Harold Hamm, Bass Pro Shops founder John Morris, Sanderson Farms CEO Joe Sanderson and Hewlett-Packard (NYSE:HPE) president Dion Weisler.

The Trump administration officially supported privatizing the nationas air traffic control system earlier this month during a week-long infrastructure push, saying reducing the role of the Federal Aviation Administration would help improve efficiency, modernize outdated processes and save money. Executives from many of the major airlines have supported the move, while critics believe it gives those very same industry leaders too much power in the skies. ATC privatization is part of the Trump administrationas broader $1 trillion infrastructure overhaul.
President Trump's longtime adviser Kellyanne Conway said Monday the expanding investigation into ties between the president's campaign and Russia has become an unnecessary burden on taxpayers.

I think the president just has to have this two-front war. On one hand keeping an eye on these investigations that he calls a witch hunt that so far have produced nothing but a waste of taxpayer dollars and its getting really expensive," Conway told the FOX Business Network. "We lived through this before. Where are the same Democrats who complained about previous investigations that actually did bear fruit where a former president lied under oath and obstruct of justice. We know what happened there. They complained completely about the waste of taxpayer dollars. I would up that ante here."

Conway says she's calling on Democrats to support President Trump and help move the president's growth agenda forward. The Democrats are interested in politics. The President is interested in governing and leading and having impact on peoples lives, Conway said. We are always open to getting their votes. Where are they? Why dont they come to the table? And channel some bipartisanship on measures that affect their constituents as well.

Conway added Democrats should also speak up about the Russia probe which is costing taxpayers even as the White House pushes its plans for health care and tax reform.

Obamacare has been the law of the land for 7 years. These sinking battle ships turn slowly and theyve got part one through the house. Now, the Senate will do its work, she said.
Tech leaders from Americas biggest companies arrived at the White House to meet with President Donald Trump Monday, to discuss innovative ways to streamline government services, trim regulations and cut federal costs.

"Government  has relied too long on past practices as automatic justification of their continuation," senior advisor to the president Jared Kushner said Monday. To illustrate his point, he noted the Department of Defense still uses of 8-inch floppy disks while many agencies are still complying with guidance issued during Y2K.

This is the first meeting of the American Technology Council, which was created by the president in May with the specific aim of modernizing government communication and infrastructure in order to improve the efficiency of the federal bureaucracy. The group will break out into ten different working sessions to discuss everything from cyber security to cloud computing and immigration reform.

Watch the latest video at video.foxbusiness.com

During a conference call Friday, White House officials said they saw an economic opportunity to cut $1 trillion in technology related costs over the next decade by improving IT. This comes as the White House looks to reduce government spending across all sectors and federal agencies.

The Department of Veterans Affairs will be another big focus for the group of tech leaders, Kushner said Monday, claiming tech improvements can improve the lives of U.S. veterans who deserve better.

The VA has 532 forms on vets.gov, the majority of which are not accessible by modern browsers. Most services still use paper forms, including 90 percent of health care applications and 86 percent of claims, Kushner said.

One controversial issue that will be debated Monday is the H-1B visa program, which is of high importance to the Silicon Valley greats. The program allows the government to temporarily admit skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations  and many of them are employed by tech companies. The Trump administration has said that U.S. businesses are abusing this program at the expense of qualified American workers who are seeking employment opportunities. The president signed an executive order in April directing federal agencies to review and propose changes to the program.

Leaders in attendance Monday include Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) CEO Tim Cook, Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) CEO Brian Krzanich, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) CEO Satya Nadella, IBM (NYSE:IBM) CEO Ginni Rometty, Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL) CEO Eric Schmidt and Accenture (NYSE:ACN) CEO Julie Sweet.

Already this year, multiple tech leaders have withdrawn from White House councils over the presidents controversial policies. Uber CEO Travis Kalanick left a White House business council in February following public criticism over his participation and Trumps travel ban. Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musk abandoned his posts earlier this month over the White Houses decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord.

Mondays meeting will be conducted in concert with the Office of American Innovation, led by Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner, which was created in March to implement job creation policies by working with, and modeling programs after, the private sector.
NBC News Megyn Kelly defended her interview with online radio host and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones Sunday night, telling her audience that the Infowars host isnt going away.

Kelly opened the third episode of her newsmagazine series by promising to confront Jones about his notorious lie that the 2012 Sandy Hook massacre that killed 26 people in Newtown, Conn., was a hoax.

Some thought we shouldnt broadcast this interview because his baseless allegations arent just offensive, theyre dangerous, Kelly said in introducing the 20-minute long segment. But heres the thing: Alex Jones isnt going away. She noted that President Donald Trump has praised Jones and appeared on his radio program.

Kellys voiceover described Jones claims that the killings in Newtown were hoaxes as outrageous. When she confronted Jones, the host initially said his statements were an attempt to play devils advocate.

Was that devils advocate? The whole thing is a giant hoax? The whole thing was fake? Kelly asked.

Yes, said Jones, who added he had watched footage of children evacuating the school on that day and it looks like a drill.

When Kelly tried to explain the anger that his stance caused, Jones cut her off.

Oh, I know, but they dont get angry about the half-million dead Iraqis from the [economic] sanctions [under Saddam Hussein] 

Thats a dodge, Kelly interjected.

No, its not a dodge, Jones answered. The media never covers all the evil wars its promoted 

That doesnt excuse what you did and said about Newtown, Kelly fired back. You know it.

Finally, Jones admitted, I tend to believe that children probably did die there. But then, you look at all the other evidence on the other side, I can see how other people believe that nobody died there.

Of course, there is no evidence on the other side, Kellys voiceover chimed in.

The segment with Jones combined Kelly's interview with background on his relationship with Trump and comments from Newtown parent Neil Heslin, whose 6-year-old son, Jesse Lewis, was killed in the shooting. When Kelly asked him whether he had anything to say to Jones for Father's Day, he responded, "I think he's blessed to have his children to spend the day with, to speak to. I don't have that."

Last week, Jones leaked an audio recording of what he said was a phone conversation with Kelly, heard promising she would not portray him as "some kind of boogeyman." Shortly before Sunday's night interview, Jones released a Father's Day video in which he offered condolences to families who had lost children in the "horrible tragedy" of Newtown, but did not refer to his previous comments disputing the killings.

"Parents should never have to bury their own children," Jones said.

Kelly and NBC had been fiercely criticized for her decision to interview Jones. Connecticuts statewide NBC owned-and-operated station declined to broadcast Sundays program, saying that the wounds are understandably still so raw in the state. Lawyers representing 12 people who lost loved ones in the Sandy Hook shooting wrote to the network and asked them not to air the interview.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Is it a career killer to be a conservative in Hollywood in the Trump era?

While conservative actors like Tim Allen and Jon Voight regularly talk politics, the majority of Republican showbiz pros we talked to said they now fear being blacklisted like writers, actors, and others said to be communist sympathizers were banned from working in show business in the 1950s.

"I often tell friends getting into the biz from this day forward, you are a Democrat publicly, one industry vet told Fox News on the condition of anonymity.

Three members of the Hollywood conservative group Friends of Abe (as in Abe Lincoln) said the political climate in Hollywood is the worst they have ever seen, with one actor/screenwriter who also requested to not be named saying: Its toxic if you have any leanings towards Donald Trump or the Republican Party.

"You keep quiet because you don't know if that's going to set someone off who can hire you, the Hollywood pro said. It's a unique scenario because you won't be punished if you are liberal."

In Hollywood its not like Wall Street -- politics does factor into jobs, the showbiz insider said. Producers hire based on who people like working with, you have a lot of down time on sets and you dont want people on set that may create conflict.

"People often get so flipped out even if you question their views."

A longtime Hollywood screenwriter echoed those sentiments.

"It has become personal, nasty even, the conservative writer said, adding there is a definite social blacklisting happening.

Actress Mary Birdsong (Reno 911), whos no fan of Donald Trump herself, said she had also noticed the lack of political give and take since the reality star assumed the Presidency.

It's unusual to have right/left discourse," she said, noting, however, that the same thing happens if she goes to a conservative part of the country. I was recently in Texas. I had to keep my mouth shut.

Birdsong said the whole situation is troubling. "What is the good of free speech if we only get to use it with people we agree with?

Michelle Pollino's Fox Radio series "Conservatives Under Fire in Hollywood" airs all wekk on Fox News Radio.
An alternate juror in Bill Cosby's sexual assault case said Monday he "probably" would have voted to convict and was "ridiculously sick" when he found out the main jury couldn't reach a verdict.

A mistrial was declared Saturday after jurors said they were hopelessly deadlocked. Prosecutors plan to retry the 79-year-old star on charges he drugged and molested a woman in 2004.

As an alternate, Mike McCloskey heard all the testimony but didn't participate in deliberations.

He told Pittsburgh radio station WDVE that jurors did not discuss the case on the bus ride after the trial, maintaining "complete silence." The trial took place outside Philadelphia, but the jury came from the Pittsburgh area.

"It was the craziest, eeriest bus ride I've ever taken," said McCloskey, 43.

McCloskey posted his juror's badge on Facebook as proof of his role in the case. He did not immediately return a message from The Associated Press on Monday.

Jurors deliberated more than 52 hours over six days before telling a judge they couldn't break their deadlock. The juror's names haven't been made public and the split on the vote hasn't been disclosed, shrouding the case in mystery.

Prosecutors are fighting to keep the jurors' identities a secret, arguing in court documents Monday that releasing them would result in a "publicity onslaught" and make picking a jury for the second trial more difficult. Media organizations urged a judge to release them, saying the public has an interest in "confirming that the outcome of the first trial was the result of an impartial process."

Pennsylvania law allows the public release of jurors' names, but judges have discretion to keep them a secret under certain conditions.

Judge Steven O'Neill, who presided over the Cosby trial, has yet to rule on the release of the names.

He advised jurors when the trial ended Saturday that they didn't need to discuss the case.

"It can never be clearer that if you speak up, you could be chilling the justice system in the future if jurors are needed in this case," O'Neill told them.

Cosby, the actor and comedian once known as "America's Dad," was charged with three felony counts of aggravated indecent assault stemming from Andrea Constand's allegations that he drugged and violated her at his suburban Philadelphia home. He said the encounter was consensual.

It is not yet clear why jurors could not reach a verdict, or how close they came.

In a retrial, District Attorney Kevin Steele could ask the judge to allow testimony from more of Cosby's 60 accusers, or to disclose to jurors that Constand is gay. That never came up in her seven hours of testimony. The defense had hoped, if it did, to introduce evidence she had previously dated a man.

"The key to retrying a case is to do it differently the second time because the defense expects you to do it the same way," said Constand's lawyer, Dolores Troiani.

Cosby remains free on $1 million bail in the criminal case. O'Neill could schedule the retrial within weeks.

The entertainer is also battling sexual battery or defamation cases still pending by 10 women in California and Massachusetts. Several of them attended the criminal trial with their lawyers.
The tragic fire in a West London tower block epitomized the fires being built under the existing order in Britain right now. [Photo by Heiko Khoo / China.org.cn]

Last week was perhaps one of the most dramatic in modern British history.

Although Theresa May's Conservative party won the most seats in the general election, this was a Pyrrhic victory. This is one where an army nominally wins a battle, but does so at such a huge cost to itself that another such battle would bring catastrophe.

May's incompetent misjudgment of the popular mood continues unabated. Meanwhile the Labour Party led by Jeremy Corbyn has seen its ratings race ahead and, incredibly, everything indicates that, if there were a new election tomorrow, Labour would win a landslide majority. What a difference a week makes!

There are times when necessity is expressed through an accident. Such was the case with the horrific fire engulfing a high-rise tower block called Grenfell tower in Kensington, one London's wealthiest boroughs, but one where, only the week before, Labour scored its most dramatic and unexpected electoral victory.

The fire swept up the 24 story-building in the early morning so fast that many residents were unable to escape. The occupants of this 1970's building had for years prophesied impending disaster, indeed issuing a chilling warning last November that a fire with significant loss of life was inevitable.

The Conservative-led council, like many local governments around the country, had long worked hand-in-glove with property developers. Under the auspices of regeneration and improvement, unaccountable bodies systematically manipulated the local residents and signed contracts for all sorts of unnecessary building work.

At the same time the elementary needs of residents were ignored and their interests trampled on. Fire in such concrete high-rise blocks should remain isolated within the apartment affected. However, it appears that cladding attached to the exterior of the tower block during renovation work was responsible for the blaze sweeping up the building in minutes.

The death toll may well exceed 100. Most of the dead have either not yet been found, or not identified. On Friday, I was at the scene, where hundreds of people were milling around shell-shocked, some were wailing in grief. Soon, this mood turned to anger and then rage.

Whilst emergency response teams did what they could to save lives and comfort the injured, the local government has proven utterly incompetent; and Theresa May exacerbated the unpopularity of the national government by initially refusing to talk directly with those affected.

By contrast, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn went to the community, shared their grief, and promised to ensure that those responsible would be brought to justice. In addition, he called for empty luxury houses and apartments in the area to be requisitioned to house those made homeless by the fire.

This is the first time in my life that I sense the mood in British society is turning revolutionary. The Russian Marxist Vladimir Lenin identified the preconditions for a revolution as follows: That the ruling class is unable to rule in the old way; and the oppressed classes are unwilling to be ruled in the old way; and that an organization or leadership exists that is prepared to lead a movement for change.

The Conservative party would like to be rid of Theresa May. Her former chancellor, George Osborne, described the prime minister as one of the walking dead. However, the party's leaders are terrified to remove her for fear of the consequences if this triggered a new election.

Yet, May has still not been able to form a government, although one is due to be announced this week. And, in an unprecedented move by the establishment, the 91-year-old Queen of England issued a somber letter to her subjects in an attempt to pacify popular anger.

Last Friday, a march by the enraged community around Grenfell Tower led to the storming of Kensington Town Hall to demand truth and justice. The police seemed unable, or perhaps unwilling, to use force lest the situation escalate out of control and copycat rebellions sweep the country. Small, but angry protests erupted that evening in central London.

Within the Labour Party, the majority of MPs despised Jeremy Corbyn only a month ago; however, when he walked into Parliament last week, these same MPs gave him a standing ovation. Now, one after another of his opponents have eaten humble pie and declared how wrong they were.

They hope thereby, to cling to their positions despite the anger of ordinary party members at their two-year campaign to sabotage his leadership. Now Corbyn and his team have called a giant demonstration for July 1 to draw on his growing popularity.

In this climate of seething anger, a radical switch in Britain's political direction is certainly on the cards.

Heiko Khoo is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/heikokhoo.htm

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
Venus Ramey, the first red-haired Miss America, died on Saturday at the age of 92.

Born in Ashland, Ky., Ramey was crowned in 1944 when she represented Washington, D.C., after she moved there from Kentucky to work during World War II.

She returned to Kentucky in 1990. In 2007, at age 82, Ramey shot out the truck tire of trespassers on her Waynesburg, Ky., farm, earning her a guest appearance on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno."

The Miss America Organization sent out an email honoring the 1944 Miss America winner, who died in her home-state of Kentucky.

"During Venus' reign, Miss America was seen as a political activist for the first time, as Venus worked with Senator Kaper of Kansas and Congressman Somner of Missouri in publishing their bills to gain suffrage for the District of Columbia, as well as other Members of Congress to enact women's rights legislation," the organization stated. "...Venus leaves behind a lasting legacy. Her memory will live on in the hearts of everyone in the Miss America family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In honor of National Lobster Week, a seafood restaurant in Long Island has released one of their oldest living lobsters back into the wild.

Louie the Lobster has lived for the past few decades in a tank at Peters Clam Bar in Hempstead, N.Y., where owner Butch Yamali has treated Louis more like a pet than a soon-to-be special.

Hes the largest and oldest of all my lobsters, Yamali told the New York Post about his 22-pound, 132-year-old crustacean. Its happy and sad.

RARE BLUE LOBSTER CAUGHT IN MASSACHUSETTS

According to the site, Yamali inherited Louie when he bought Peters Clam Bar four years back, and has refrained from selling him to hungry customers  including one recent patron who offered a thousand bucks for the privilege of dipping Louie in butter.

He said, I want to bring it home for a Fathers Day feast, Yamali told the New York Post. I mean, that wouldve been some impressive feast. But I didnt want to sell it.

Its like a pet now, I couldnt sell it, Yamali added.

Knowing he could never bring himself to put Louie in a pot, Yamali instead organized a ceremony whereby Louie would be pardoned and released into the wild. The town supervisor, Anthony Santino, even drew up a pardon to sign during the event.

SEAFOOD COMPANY KILLS LOBSTER, ACCUSED OF AMIMAL CRUELTY

Today Im announcing an official pardon for Louie the Lobster, said Santino. Louie may have faced a buttery fate on a seafood lovers plate, but today we are here to return Louie to a life that is better down where its wetter.

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Louie was dropped off at an Atlantic beach reef near the village of Island Park. According to Bob Bayer at the Lobster Institute in Maine, who spoke with the Post, ocean predators will likely ignore Louie because of his age. The old crustacean may even be able to find a mate, according to the expert.

The New York Daily News further reports that Peters Clam Bar had also pardoned another lobster  Larry  in June 2016.
Given that the price of avocados has skyrocketed in recent months, it no wonder a few criminals in California started dealing in black-market avocados.

Three workers at the Mission Produce ripening facility in Oxnard, Calif. have been arrested and charged with grand theft of up to $300,000 worth of avocados, says the Ventura County Sheriff's Office.

The men  28-year-old Joseph Valenzuela, 30-year-old Rahim Leblanc and 28-year-old Carlos Chavez  had reportedly been conducting unauthorized cash sales from the facility itself, perhaps for several months.

SHOPPER FIND BULLET LODGED IN AVOCADO

According to the Los Angeles Times, Mission Produce recently began delivering avocados to its customers  rather than having customers pick them up  but some clients continued to show up at the facility for their shipments. Seeing an opportunity to make a few quick bucks, the thieves simply continued to conduct the transactions and pocketed the cash, says Mission Produce president Steve Barnard.

Barnard believes they were offering the avocados at a discounted rate of $20 or $30 per box, when they normally go for around $50. All total, the company estimates its losses at about $300,000.

Barnard says surveillance footage confirmed his suspicions. The men were arrested by the Ventura County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday.

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We take these kinds of thefts seriously, Sgt. John Franchi told the Los Angeles Times. Its a big product here and in California.

Valenzuela, Leblanc and Chavez are being held in jail on bail of $250,000 each.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Massachusetts mom recently spoke to People magazine about the rare genetic disease that she shares with the three daughters who she adopted from China.

Tracy Antonelli and her daughters have a blood disorder called thalassemia, which requires them to have blood transfusions to ensure that they have enough healthy red blood cells in their bodies, according to People .

Antonelli adopted her first daughter, Emmie, in 2012. When she and her husband learned that thalassemia is more common in China than it is in some other parts of the world, they decided to adopt two more girls, Rosie and Frannie.

But what is thalassemia?

In people with thalassemia, the body doesn't make enough hemoglobin, a molecule found in red blood cells that's responsible for carrying oxygen around the body, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Hemoglobin is an essential part of red blood cells, and without enough of it, the cells don't function properly, and don't live as long as healthy red blood cells.

This lack of healthy red blood cells is called anemia. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath, the CDC says. In severe cases, the condition can cause organ damage and lead to death.

People with mild forms of thalassemia may not need treatment, the Mayo Clinic says . For those with moderate forms of the disease, treatment may be needed only after a person has surgery, for example.

But when a person has severe thalassemia, that individual needs to receive blood transfusions regularly, in order to have enough healthy red blood cells, the CDC says. But red blood cells contain a lot of iron , so regular transfusions can cause the mineral to build up in the body, which can lead to organ damage. This means that people who receive regular blood transfusions may also need treatments to remove the excess iron from their bodies.

All of Antonelli's daughters have severe forms of the disease  they all needed blood transfusions three times a week, she told People.

Thalassemia is an inherited disease, meaning that it's passed down through families, according to the National Library of Medicine (NLM). People who inherit only one faulty gene (in other words, a faulty gene from only one parent) will have a milder form of the disease than those who inherit two faulty genes (one gene from each parent).

There are different types of thalassemia, depending on which part of the hemoglobin molecule is affected, the NLM says. Hemoglobin is made of two proteins: alpha globin and beta globin, and each is encoded by a different gene. People with a faulty gene for alpha globin are said to have alpha thalassemia; those with a faulty gene for beta globin have beta thalassemia.

Alpha thalassemia occurs most often in people from Southeast Asia, China, the Middle East and Africa, according to the NLM. Beta thalassemia occurs most often in people from Mediterranean countries.

Beta thalassemia is the more severe form of the disease and affects at least 1,000 people in the United States, the CDC says. Worldwide, this form is thought to affect about 1 in 100,000 people, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders .

Antonelli has a moderate form of beta thalassemia, she said in an interview with the advocacy group The Cooley's Anemia Foundation. (Cooley's Anemia is another name for the severe type of beta thalassemia.)

Originally published on Live Science .
The company behind rawhide dog chew products has issued a recall for multiple brands of its products over concerns of potential chemical contamination. The move comes after United Pet Group said it received reports of pet illnesses involving diarrhea and vomiting, Fox 13 reported.

The Illinois-based company, which uses manufacturing facilities in Mexico, Columbia and Brazil, said it has identified the source of contamination but is issuing a nationwide recall for products including American Beefhide, Digest-eeze, Healthy Hide, Petco or Good Lovin Hill Country Fare, Priority Pet, Exer-Hides, Essential Everyday, Enzadent or Dentalhex, Dentleys and Companion.

MAN GETS $870G AFTER DOCTOR REMOVES WRONG TESTICLE

In a press release, the company said the facilities were using a quaternary ammonium compound mixture as a processing aid, which is not approved in the U.S. Exposure to the compound could cause pets to experience reduced appetite and gastric irritation, Fox 13 reported.

The affected products have an expiration date ranging from 6/01/2019 through 5/31/2020. Consumers are urged to dispose of the product or return it for a full refund.
They're already used by international spies and nosy neighbors. And one day in the future, drones may be used to save lives, Reuters reports. Sweden scientists tested whether a drone could be used to rush defibrillators to people suffering heart attacks.

The Karolinska Institute study found that drones beat ambulance time by about 16 minutes. Researchers sent drones to 18 locations within a 6.2-mile radius in Stockholm where EMTs had responded to cardiac arrests between 2006 and 2013; the ambulance vs.

drone arrival times were then compared. The idea is that bystanders would act as life-savers and grab the defibrillators. While no actual heart attack patients participated in the study, defibrillators are commonly found in public places and are "easier to use than a fire extinguisher," Jacob Hollenberg at Karolinska tells the Guardian.

Cardiac arrest is a leading killer worldwide, with only one in 10 people surviving an attack outside a hospital, per Reuters. "Every second is crucial," Hollenberg tells the Guardian.

The results published in JAMA show that dispatchers got a drone in the air within a median time of 3 seconds of the emergency call, compared to 3 minutes for an ambulance; the median drone arrival time was 5 minutes, 21 seconds from time of call, versus 22 minutes for the ambulance.

Larger-scale tests are needed, but Hollenberg predicts drone defibrillators could be aloft in Sweden within two years. Researchers are eyeing them for remote areas, too, though current laws in Sweden and elsewhere require them to be operated within sight, per the Guardian.

(UPS is among the companies testing a drone-delivery service.)

This article originally appeared on Newser: Study Pits Drones Against Ambulances, With Clear Winner
Atheists across the fruited plain are rejoicing after a federal judge declared Monday that a cross erected in a Florida park violated the law and must come down.

I am aware that there is a lot of support in Pensacola to keep the cross as is, and I understand and I understand and respect that point of view, U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson wrote in his ruling. But, the law is the law.

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The lawsuit was filed in 2016 by the notorious Freedom From Religion Foundation and the American Humanist Association on behalf of four Pensacola citizens. Click here to view photos of the cross.

The judge pointed out that park has hosted tens of thousands of people for roughly 75 years without causing anyone offense  until now.

When a city park serving all citizens  nonreligious, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Christian  contains a towering Latin cross, this sends a message of exclusion to non-Christians, and a corresponding message to Christians that they are favored citizens, said Annie Gaylor, the organizations perpetually offended co-founder.

The original cross was erected in 1941 in Bayview Park. It was replaced with a 34-foot, white Latin Cross in 1969 by the Pensacola Jaycees.

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Judge Vinson noted in his ruling the Bayview Cross is part of the rich history of Pensacola and Bayview Park in particular.

He said the cross had been the focal point for Memorial Day and Veterans Day services  not to mention Easter Sunrise services.

However, after about 75 years, the Bayview Cross can no longer stand as a permanent fixture on city-owned property, the Reagan-appointed judge ruled.

He directed the city of Pensacola to remove the cross within 30 days. He also ordered the city to pay the aggrieved plaintiffs one dollar in damages. That comes out to a quarter apiece.

The American Humanist Association celebrated the judges ruling.

We are pleased that the Court struck down this cross as violative of the First Amendment, attorney Monica Miller said in a statement. The cross was totally unavoidable to park patrons, and to have citizens foot the bill for such a religion symbol is both unfair and unconstitutional.

Judge Vinson based his ruling on a court case involving a similar cross that suffered the same fate in Rabun County, Georgia.

If the cross under review in Rabun County violated the First Amendment and had to be removed, the cross here must suffer the same fate, the judge wrote.

Oddly, Judge Vinson seemed rather reluctant to rule against the cross.

The historical record indicates that the Founding Fathers did not intend for the Establishment Clause to ban crosses and religious symbols from public property, he wrote. Indeed, the enlightened patriots who framed our constitutionwould have most likely found this lawsuit absurd. And if I were deciding this case on a blank slate, I would agree and grant the plaintiffs no relief. But, alas, that is not what we have here.

As I wrote in my book, The Deplorables Guide to Making America Great Again, people of faith are facing unrelenting attacks from a ruthless bunch of godless atheists -- hell-bent on eradicating Christianity from the public.

Should Christian citizens be relegated to some sort of second-class citizenship? Should they be directed to keep their beliefs hidden inside the church house?

Will they demand that city leaders rename Los Angeles and San Francisco? Should The Ten Commandments be chiseled off the doors of the Supreme Court? Should references to God be sandblasted from our national monuments?

Just how far do the atheists intend to go in this cultural jihad on our Judeo-Christian values?
Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., has given President Trump a grand opportunity to do something he has yet to do in his first months in office: make significant progress on religious freedom for persecuted Christians and other religious minorities around the world. With the recent passage of the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act (HR 390) by the House of Representatives, the President is well-positioned to make a bold move to stabilize the region.

If passed by the Senate, the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act will provide relief to those victimized by the ongoing genocide, human rights violations and war crimes by terrorist groups. But it is perhaps the secondary effects of this bill that will lead to the most powerful and lasting impact.

HR 390 allows the U.S. to assist in the reestablishment of Christian, Yazidi and other minority communities in the Middle East, which are central to the survival of a pluralistic and open societya giant slap in the face to the stated goal of ISIS to drive out all those who do not embrace their savage ideology. It also gives hundreds of thousands of refugees the opportunity to return to their homes instead of seeking refugee status in the West or risking dangerous journeys to enter Europe in desperation. And to be sure, as we often witness firsthand at Open Doors through our work on the ground in Iraq and Syria, many Christians wish to remain in their homeland and would do so if they had not lost hope after years without resources, as the world turns a blind eye to their plight.

Open Doors USA ranks Syria and Iraq at number 6 and 7 respectively on our World Watch List of the most difficult places for Christians. The need to protect and establish Christian and Yazidi communities in this region is urgent.

The question that ought to occur to the President and members of the Senate is why this kind of bill was not passed years ago. The answer lies in the Obama administrations sluggish admission of the genocide against these populations. Faulty crisis mapping at the State Department, or perhaps political maneuvering in the White House, held the administration back from acknowledging the religious nature of these attacks on persecuted Christians and other religious minorities. This happened despite ISIS plainly stating its goal to drive out Christians, Yazidis and many other sects. Fearful of inciting religious tensions, they played directly to the hands of the terrorists. Now the Christian population of Iraq is a fraction of what it was just a few years ago. At one point it was around 1.5 millionnow somewhere fewer than 200,000, with census details obviously hard to come by. But with the acknowledgement last year by the U.S., EU and others of the genocide against these groups, action must now be taken to assist and help establish Christians and Yazidis remaining in their homelands.

The mass exodus of Christians from the region is one of the reasons Open Doors has launched a campaign in consultation with Christians from Iraq and Syria, titled One Million Voices of Hope for the Middle East. We have developed core policy recommendations designed to help restore hope and stability in the region, enabling and empowering the Christian community and other at-risk religious minorities to return and contribute to the rebuilding of their homelands. Without the return of the Christian community, both Syria and Iraq risk losing a key influence for the future of the regionnot only in overall stability, but also in economic development, education, health care, and peace building and reconciliation efforts.

Evangelical Christian voters seem to have been patient with the President thus far on international religious liberty issues, as they were with President Obama. But with the lack of key appointments in the State Department on religious libertythere has been no whisper of a new ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom, and rumor has it that it could be empty until at least the fall of this yearthat patience will not last forever. The Presidents enthusiastic words on religious freedom around the world, and the importance of helping persecuted Christians, must to be met with action. Expediting this bill in the Senate and signing it swiftly would be a great victory for the Presidents stated agenda.

As CEO of Open Doors USA, which ranks Syria and Iraq at number 6 and 7 respectively on our World Watch List of the most difficult places for Christians, I know the urgent need to protect and establish Christian and Yazidi communities in this region. For many years we have noted the sharp rise in persecution and sought to attend to the needs of these embattled communities.

Without these strong minority faith communities, the terrorists will have won their stated goal. We cannot allow this to happennot only for the potential consequences of future movements along similar lines, but for the human toll that will play out for years to come on those communities that have existed since the time of Christ, and which are now lying fallow and empty.

In the north of Iraq and around the margins of Syria are hundreds of thousands of Christians and other religious minorities who are wondering if the world has forgotten their pain. We shall soon know the answer to that question. Lets prioritize this crucial bill to assist victims of the genocide and begin the resettling of these brave, integral and historic communities. The Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act offers a powerful opportunity for this administration to back their words with action.
Desperate to salvage their decimated party after losing at every level last November, Democrats have put all their chips on the special election for Georgias 6th District.

Democrats from Washington, D.C. to San Francisco to New York City have dug deep into their wallets to support Jon Ossoffs attempt to take the congressional seat last held by Dr. Tom Price.

So it should come as no surprise to my fellow Georgians that just 3.5 percent of the last $15 million raised by Ossoff actually came from within the state. In fact, four times more money has come from donors in California and New York than his supporters in Georgia. In all, hes raised a whopping $23.8 millionmore money than has ever been dumped into a single congressional campaign.

Campaign donations arent the only thing being funneled in from outside the state. Ossoffs campaign enjoys support from far-left politicians, like Nancy Pelosi, Bernie Sanders, and Tom Perez and elitist celebrities like disgraced comedian Kathy Griffin, who recently decided it would be funny to release a video of her holding up a prosthetic that looked like the bloodied, decapitated head of President Trump.

Super PACs and the Democrats campaign arm have shelled out millions of dollars and dispatched hundreds of volunteers to try to convince the people of Georgias Sixth to elect Jon Ossoff.

Despite Democrats dumping all their resources and manpower into this race, Georgians still arent sold on Ossoff.

Could it be that he doesnt actually live in the district he wants to represent? Jon Ossoff wont even be able to vote for himself on Election Day.

Could it be that he has virtually zero experience? Ossoff has repeatedly misled voters about his qualifications. Even the left-leaning Washington Post accused him of resume puffery.

Handel, on the other hand, has lived in Georgias 6th District for decadesalmost as long as Jon Ossoff has been alive, as she pointed out at a recent debate.

Her record of good stewardship with taxpayer dollars has been on full display throughout her career, both during her service as Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissionerswhere she took their budget from the red to the blackand as president and CEO of the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Karen also served Georgia as secretary of state, the first Republican to do so in the state since Reconstruction.

Handel is a proven leader with a mile-long track record of working for Georgians. Despite Jon Ossoff and Democrats best efforts to throw false and misleading attacks at her throughout this campaign, nothing seems to stick.

The cheap political tricks used by the Democrats prove just how desperate they are. They were decimated in November and have since failed to win special congressional elections in Kansas and again in Montana. This is their last shot to regain relevance.

Georgians arent buying their despair and, along with the American people, have made it abundantly clear they are ready for strong Republican leadership in Washington. Time and again, the people in Georgias 6th District have proven our values are rooted in conservative principles. From my time serving the district, to Johnny Isakson, and Dr. Tom Price, who both succeeded me, this seat has been held by those committed to upholding and preserving those values  a legacy Karen Handel will surely continue.

We must preserve this seat by turning out on Election Day to vote for Karen Handel to be the next representative for Georgias 6th District. We must tell Democrats that Jon Ossoff and Nancy Pelosis values do not represent the people of Georgia, and that we are committed to the direction Republicans are taking this country.
North Korea has taken the life of an innocent Americanand there must be clear consequences for their barbaric actions. If not, North Korea will only assume their actions are acceptable.

Otto Warmbier, the 22-year-old college student who was held by Pyongyang before being returned to the U.S. earlier this month, died Monday.

His family, victims of Pyongyangs brutality every bit as much as Otto, explained in a statement that, when Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable  almost anguished.

The statement went on, noting that, although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that.

As much of a tragedy as this, how can we be shocked anymore? North Korea, through this senseless act of what can only be described as terrorismnot revealing the extent of the young mans condition until he was practically on U.S. soilis nothing new for the so-called hermit kingdom.

With hundreds of thousands of people in prison camps, a large section of its population on the verge of starvation and a cult of personality akin to Stalin or Hitler, North Korea is the ultimate rogue statenow armed with deadly missiles that can carry chemical, biological and now nuclear weapons that will soon be able to hit the U.S. homeland.

President Trump should declare talks with North Koreawhich have seemed possible at different points in the recent pastare off the table, indefinitely. Washington will not, and cannot, try and achieve a diplomatic breakthrough with a nation that kills our own people.

The death of Otto Warmbier can only serve as a warning to the Trump Administration that it must act to not only ensure this never happens again, but that Washington pushes back against the evils of a regime that will do anything to hold on to power.

First, President Trump should submit a bill to Congress, call it the Otto Warmbier act, to make sure that never again will innocent Americans be used for the propaganda machine of Kim Jong Un. In the bill, he should codify that no U.S. citizen should be allowed to travel to North Korea--under any circumstances whatsoever. President Trump could work with Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina, who has also proposed a similar idea. Here, the president can send a powerful message that we will not be allow North Korea to use any means necessary to gain leverage over usincluding our own citizens who come in peace to visit their country and many times for humanitarian reasons.

Second, the president should demand the immediate release of all other Americans that are still trapped in North Korea. There is no reason that Pyongyang should be holding innocent civilians for any reason from any country as a propaganda ploy. President Trump should declare that if such Americans are not returned right now, and unharmed, all options would be on the tablefrom the toughest of possible unilateral sanctions, to increased missile defense platforms in the seas or possibly to Japan and that truly all options are on the table.

Third, it is time Washington go to Beijingtelling China unequivocally it must now use all of its diplomatic and economic muscle to reign in its rogue ally. The time for statements and talk are over. Beijing must begin to put in serious work to not only help the international community rein in North Korea, but show clear pathways on how it can achieve such shared goals.

Finally, President Trump should declare talks with North Koreawhich have seemed possible at different points in the recent pastare off the table, indefinitely. Washington will not, and cannot, try and achieve a diplomatic breakthrough with a nation that kills our own people. The Trump Administration should send a clear signal, explaining that until North Korea gives a full and accurate accounting of what happened to Otto Warmbier, they will be sitting alone at the negotiating table.

The Trump Administration has been proven time and time again that it made the right choice to tackle North Korea as its number one foreign policy priority. While many past administrations have decided to kick the can down the road, Pyongyangs latest vile act must not go unchallenged.

Through concrete action the administration can indeed impact Kims strategic calculus and show that Washington and its allies mean business. If not, what is to stop North Korea from committing more acts of violence against Americans or our allies in the future?

Clearly the time for action is now.
File photo taken Sept. 27, 2012 shows former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl speaks at an event marking his 30th anniversary of coming to power in Berlin, Germany. Former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl died at his home in Germany's Ludwigshafen on June 16, 2017 at the age of 87, according to German local media Focus Online. [Photo/Xinhua]

Last Friday, former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl passed away. Most international leaders sent condolences to President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Angela Merkel for this significant loss.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang were no exception. Kohl was regarded as a good friend of China, as Sino-German relations were significantly advanced during his administration, as President Xi stressed in his message.

Governing his country for 16 years, from 1982 until 1998, Kohl seriously looked to the East. In so doing, he had the opportunity to visit China five times while meetings between other ministers of the two sides were frequent.

Diagnosing that Beijing's economic boom and opening-up process could bring benefits to Germany, his visits always involved an accompanying large business delegation seeking to increase bilateral trade and boost investments. His prognosis and choice have been proven correct in the medium- and long-term.

His 1993 and 1995 visits, for instance, were remarkable for their tangible economic results and the doors they opened for a new wave of close collaboration. In 1995, Kohl also became the first Western leader to visit a Chinese military base after 1989. This symbolical move outlined his "out-of-the-box" thinking about China in a period of different foreign policy priorities for most Western leaders.

Notwithstanding the importance of his international approach, Kohl's legacy cannot be disassociated from domestic developments. The country he first led at the end of 1982 was completely different from the one he handed over to his successor in 1998.

The end of the Cold War reshaped the landscape of world politics and had a tremendous impact on Germany. Divided into a Western and an Eastern bloc politically, and then physically by the Berlin Wall, , the country could finally work towards reunification.

The reasons for the end of the Cold War are deep-rooted and are certainly related with the implications of the perestroika policy of Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. But when Kohl met him in Bonn a few months earlier, the fall of the Berlin Wall could not have been anticipated.

The demise of the Soviet Union, however, helped Kohl win the election of 1990 presenting himself a guarantor of stability. But his next task was Herculean. There was a vast gap in living conditions between the Western and Eastern parts.

Mentalities were different. And memories could not easily ne erased from the trauma of the Cold War era and the division of people and, indeed many families. So, Kohl had to inspire citizens living in the East that they could follow the path of the West without being left behind.

His plan included placing some of the economic onus on Western Germans to show their solidarity with their Eastern compatriots. The principal objective was to generate growth and development on the other side.

Critics of Kohl have accused him for not doing enough to improve living conditions of Eastern Germans and eliminate problems such as unemployment and poverty. This criticism is unfair.

Of course, an assessment of the situation more than two decades later can certainly lead to the finding of omissions and mistakes. Kohl had to act under pressure, though. The reality is that he achieved his country's unity and set the basis for its future economic explosion under extremely difficult circumstances.

Moreover, a reference to Kohl's contribution to the European integration project needs to be made. Even during the Cold War, he never hid his belief that Europe had bright prospects for unity and enlargement.

He closely cooperated with French President Francois Mitterrand. Together the two leaders were the pioneers of all steps enhancing European integration after the fall of the Berlin Wall, mainly of the creation of the economic and the monetary union.

Again, some critics argue that Germany's present perceived "hegemonic" role in Europe began with Kohl. At that time, he was only saying that Germany had no ambition to become a world power. And if, nowadays, Germany is becoming Europe's superpower in fact, this cannot necessarily be related to Kohl's initial calculations and should be also attributed to the decline of other countries. In the final analysis, he cannot be blamed for economic and political successes.

All in all, Helmut Kohl was one of the most important European statesmen in recent decades. The modern history of Germany and Europe will remain associated with his legacy forever. This is also the case for the steady and systematic improvement of relations between Germany  and more broadly Europe  and China.

George N. Tzogopoulos is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit:

http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/GeorgeNTzogopoulos.htm

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
The special counsel's investigation of President Trump and his associates seems to be exploding into the news.

There's a steady flow of huge headlines that immediately echo across cable news, across cyberspace, and across social media.

Make no mistake, a president being investigated by an independent prosecutor is extraordinary. But the individual developments may not be.

Again, these stories are legitimate, accurate and fair game. But is there some hype behind the headlines?

Take the Washington Post report the other day that Robert Mueller is investigating Jared Kushner's business dealings. It sounds like a big expansion of the probe.

But the paper had previously reported that investigators planned to look at Kushner, a top White House official and the president's son-in-law. Since he's a former real estate developer and had contacts with the Russian ambassador and a Moscow banker, how would any probe not look at any financial dealings he may have had with Russia?

In other words, this is simply Mueller doing his job.

Kushner's lawyer, Jamie Gorelick, said it "would be standard practice for the special counsel to examine financial records to look for anything related to Russia," and that's right. She said Kushner will fully cooperate. So the real question is whether Mueller will find anything.

The other news here is that sources are leaking information from a criminal investigation, which is illegal, but the media are far less interested in that.

Or take the earlier Post story that Trump is under investigation for possible obstruction of justice. That, of course, was a game changer. Trump had not been under investigation, as James Comey testified, but Comey's firing triggered a series of events now being examined by Mueller.

The details of the Post piece are that Mueller has arranged interviews with Dan Coats, the national intelligence director, and Mike Rogers, head of the NSA. They were previously reported to have told associates that Trump asked them to intervene with Comey's FBI probe, and that they declined.

Of course Mueller was going to look into that. He would be shirking his responsibilities if he didn't talk to the two men.

And then there are developments like Mike Pence hiring a lawyer. This was treated as big breaking news. But what official wouldn't retain an attorney ahead of an interview with FBI investigators? That is, as Pence says, "very routine." The vice president was always going to be interviewed because he was the one who Mike Flynn lied to about his Russia contacts before being fired.

When normal things happen in an investigation--officials interviewed, witnesses hiring lawyers, financial records scrutinized--they should be reported.

But the sometimes breathless tone, especially among some picking up the newspaper scoops, suggests that the investigation is dramatically widening and prosecutors moving closer to their prey.

That really isn't happening, at least not yet. And if it does, there will be no need for the media to crank up the volume.

And if it doesn't, Trump supporters and others may well be asking what all the noise was about.
Struggling to make progress on campaign promises like tax and health care reform, rank-and-file congressional Republicans are stepping up calls for their leaders to cancel or at least shorten the upcoming August recess.

The GOP agenda is about to enter a summer slump amid internal disagreements and efforts by Democrats to sideline legislation. These efforts will enter a new phase Monday evening when Democrats plan to start slowing down Senate work even more by making speeches and refusing to let Republicans take procedural shortcuts.

President Trump took to Twitter Monday morning accusing Democrats of wanting to "stop tax cuts, good healthcare and Border Security."

But on the ground, congressional Republicans are looking for more time to break the logjam on tax reform and an ObamaCare overhaul. Perhaps the most pressing reason to cancel the month-long summer break would be to give lawmakers space to pass a budget resolution before the Sept. 30 deadline and avoid a partial government shutdown.

The House Freedom Caucus, which includes roughly 30 of the chambers most conservative members, was among the first to support the effort. The group said earlier this month that Congress must remain in session this summer to continue working to accomplish the priorities of the American people.

Trump, eager to notch his first major legislative victory, also appears behind the push.

White House budget Director Mick Mulvaney said last week that he supports Congress staying in session through at least part of August.

On Monday, White House Counselor Kellyanne Conway argued that Congress needs to pass legislation for the good of country, not with reelection next year in mind. She made clear that Trump, a businessman and real estate mogul by trade, wants faster results.

When he says drain the swamp, its not just about getting rid of all the crocodiles in the water that we dont need. Its about moving at a different pace, she told Fox News Fox & Friends. I feel very confident that well get health care and taxes passed this year.

Republican Senate leaders set goals of having an ObamaCare replacement bill ready for a vote by July 4, or by the end of the month, at the latest.

So while cancelling the recess wont help Republicans meet their deadline, a delay could help them pass a bill before returning home to face voters and clear the way for a budget resolution before the September deadline.

Passing a budget resolution also could help pave the way for tax reform and other spending bills.

Still, an ObamaCare repeal deal is proving elusive, after the House passed its version in May. The conservative Republican Study Committee has written to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., voicing "serious concerns" over reports suggesting the Senate is "headed in a direction that may jeopardize final passage in the House of Representatives."

Congress now has 45 days legislative days before Sept. 30.

While the House has already passed an ObamaCare replacement bill, the chamber also initiates the process for money-related legislation like budgets and tax bills.

A few Senate Republicans have recently backed the no-recess idea.

Congress has no business taking a recess when the peoples business remains unfinished, Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., told The Hill newspaper.

But getting full support from Senate leaders and rank-and-file members to cancel the recess -- an almost perennial request -- is unlikely, several Capitol Hill sources told Fox News on Monday.

One problem is that Hill lawmakers historically use August to travel in delegations to foreign countries.

This year, a trip to China is scheduled through the U.S. Asia Institute, and a trip to Israel is being led by the American Israel Education Foundation, according to a high-ranking congressional aide.

Fox News' Chad Pergram and Mike Emanuel contributed to this report.
With campaign spending expected to top $50 million, the race to fill the suburban Atlanta congressional district, vacated when Tom Price was named Health and Human Services Secretary, is the most expensive in U.S. history. Both candidates in the 6th District are calling on heavy hitters with Georgia roots to get out the vote on Tuesday.

Its time to be knocking on those doors. Its time to be making those calls. Its time to be sending those emails, Secretary Price told supporters at a weekend rally for Republican Karen Handel. Its time to be making certain that you are asking every single individual that you see within the 6th District, Have you voted?

Former Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue, a Republican, also stumped for Handel over the weekend, while Democrat Jon Ossoff enlisted the support of Rep. John Lewis, a Georgia congressman and civil rights icon.

TRUMP CABINET OFFICERS URGE ON REPUBLICANS IN GEORGIA RACE

With this election, it would indicate that people are prepared to change, Lewis said at a weekend campaign event. I think that many people will see the handwriting on the wall.

The Real Clear Politics Average of polls shows Ossoff with a slight lead of 49.6 percent to Handels 47 percent in a district that normally favors establishment Republicans.

This is exactly the type of district (Democrats) hope they can win if they can retake the House in 2018, said Greg Bluestein, a political reporter with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Theres 24 seats they need to win. A lot of them are going to be these fast-changing suburban districts that Republicans have long held.

The GOP has held Georgias 6th District for nearly four decades. Ossoff hopes to fulfill a campaign slogan to flip the 6th from red to blue by appealing to moderate Republicans and independents.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: GEORGIA SPECIAL ELECTION

I think this is an opportunity for Georgia to elect some fresh leadership thats focused on delivering results for folks at home, focus on holding people accountable in Washington, Ossoff told reporters while campaigning over the weekend.

In a district that Secretary Price won with 62 percent of the vote, but that President Trump won by less than 2 percentage points in November, Handel is rallying the conservative base by linking her opponent to left-wing Democrats.

Trump showed support for the candidate Tuesday morning in a tweet.

"KAREN HANDEL FOR CONGRESS. She will fight for lower taxes, great healthcare strong security-a hard worker who will never give up! VOTE TODAY," Trump tweeted at 6:02 a.m.

In another tweet, Trump blasted Ossoff, claiming he would raise taxes "to the highest level" and would be "weak on crime and security."

At a weekend rally, Handel won loud cheers when she told the crowd: We are gonna rock Nancy Pelosis world.

Both campaigns have beefed up security after receiving threats, including letters with a white powder mailed to Handel and some of her neighbors.

Although voter turnout is typically low in special runoffs, that has not been the case in Georgias 6th District.

Voters have already cast 140,308 early ballots, according to Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp. Thats more than double the 56,830 early ballots cast in the April 18 special election.

Fox News David Lewkowict and Emily Wakeman contributed to this report.
Democrat Jon Ossoff has made Georgias special House election a competitive and closely-watched race  despite the district remaining squarely in the hands of Republicans for nearly 40 years.

Ossoff faces Republican Karen Handel in the fight for the seat vacated by Tom Price, the recently appointed Health and Human Services secretary.

Early voting in Georgia's 6th district began May 30, and June 16 was the final day to send in absentee ballots. June 20 is election day.

Tight campaign

Ossoff held a 7 point lead over Handel, a SurveyUSA poll found last month. But given the sample size of the poll, Emory University political science professor Andra Gilespie told WXIA-TV the race was still "too close to call."

Ossoff was ahead of Handel in a poll, 49.7 percent to 48 percent, according to WSB-TV. The margin of error was about 3.5 percent.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GEORGIA'S SPECIAL ELECTION

The battle between the two candidates is the most expensive congressional race in U.S. history, and may cost upward of $50 million.

The seat has been held by Republicans since Newt Gingrich won it in 1978.

But Ossoff hopes to change that as he's touted his national security expertise and experience leading a small business to woo voters. He has also promised to push for criminal justice reform, protection of civil liberties and has defended Planned Parenthood, according to his campaign website.

District lines

Ossoffs current living situation became a point of contention during the campaign as he doesnt actually live in the congressional district he is vying to represent.

Federal law does not actually require a congressional candidate to live in his district. And Ossoff has explained that he lives just outside of Georgias 6th district in order to be with his fiancee, a medical student.

TRUMP TAUNTS DEM CANDIDATE IN GEORGIA SPECIAL ELECTION

As soon as she finishes her medical training, Ill be 10 minutes back up the road into the district where I grew up, Ossoff said.

Trumps referendum

The special election is largely seen as a test of President Donald Trumps influence.

Trump has attacked Ossoff multiple times on Twitter.

The president tweeted in support of Handel on Monday.

Star power

Ossoffs campaign has drawn many big name celebrities to push the young Democrat toward victory in a volatile district.

Samuel L. Jackson encouraged voters to vote for Ossoff to halt Trumps racial and religious discrimination and sexism in a radio ad. Chelsea Handler, George Takei and Alyssa Milano have tweeted support for Ossoff.

DEMS HOPE FOR UPSET IN GEORGIA HOUSE ELECTION

Along with Milano, actor Christopher Gorham offered to drive voters to the polls during the runoff election on April 18.

Maddie Anderson, the south/central regional press secretary for the National Republican Congressional Committee, dismissed the celebrity endorsements and accused Ossoffs campaign of employ[ing] Hollywood elitists to be in charge of his voter outreach program.

Personal life

A former congressional aide and filmmaker, Ossoff was born and raised in Georgia, according to his campaign website.

Ossoff received his bachelors degree from Georgetown University where he studied under former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren. He also earned a masters degree from the London School of Economics. There, Ossoff wrote his master's thesis on trade between the U.S. and China, his campaign website stated.

Ossoff is the CEO of Insight TWI: The World Investigates which produces world-class documentary films and television programmes, specializing in fresh, daring factual content and high-impact journalism, according to its website.

Ossoff proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Alisha Kramer, in May. Kramer is a third-year medical student at Emory University and is expected to apply to OB-GYN residency programs, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Should Ossoff, 30, manage to flip the Sixth, he would be the House's youngest congressman. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is the youngest member currently at 32 years old.
Businesswoman Karen Handel won Georgia's special House election in its 6th district on Tuesday, according to AP projections.

Handel defeated Democrat Jon Ossoff in Georgias special House election to take the seat vacated when Tom Price was appointed Health and Human Services Secretary.

Keeping the 6th

Handel, 55, fought a close race against Ossoff in order to keep Georgias 6th district in the hands of the GOP. The seat has been held by Republicans since Newt Gingrich won it in 1978  but multiple polls initially showed Ossoff with a narrow lead.

Handel ran as an anti-abortion candidate who wants to repeal and replace ObamaCare and strengthen the countrys borders, according to her campaign website.

The special election was seen in part as a testament to President Donald Trumps influence. Trump has attacked Ossoff on Twitter. He also attended a fundraiser on Handel's behalf in April.

Youd better win, Trump reportedly told her at a closed-door event in April.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GEORGIAS SPECIAL ELECTION

But Trump was notably missing from Handels campaign websites list of endorsements, which included a bevy of Republican lawmakers.

"Vote now for Karen H," Trump tweeted on Monday.

House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., also campaigned with Handel in May.

Handel beat out the other 10 GOP hopefuls who vied for the partys nomination in the special election  and beat them in fundraising, as well, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported last month that the congressional race between Handel and Ossoff was the most expensive U.S. House race in the nations history, with Democrats outspending Republicans.

Political career

Aside from her three-year tenure as Georgias secretary of state, Handel launched unsuccessful campaigns for U.S. Senate in 2014 and Georgias governor in 2010.

KAREN HANDEL ON SUPPORT FROM PRESIDENT TRUMP

She chaired the Fulton County Board of Commissioners for three years beginning in 2003. As the chair, Handel turned the board's $100 million deficit into a balanced budget, her campaign website boasted.

Komen controversy

Handel also briefly served in a leadership role at the breast cancer research charity Susan G. Komen for the Cure, beginning in January 2011.

Handel was vice president for public policy for the organization when it decided to strip its funding for Planned Parenthood, a move that Handel told the Washington Post in 2012 that she supported.

But just a few days after announcing its split from Planned Parenthood in February 2012, Komen announced it would reverse its decision as the organization was distressed at the presumption that the changes made to our funding criteria were done for political reasons or to specifically penalize Planned Parenthood.

GEORGIA RACE: GOP VOWS TO UNITE, BEAT OSSOFF AFTER FORCING RUNOFF WITH TRUMPS HELP

Handel resigned amid the controversy and reportedly turned down a severance package.

HuffPost reported at the time that Handel was a driving force behind the nonprofits decision to strip funding from Planned Parenthood. Handel has denied being the sole authority of the decision.

Handels campaign website specifically noted that she has been a strong proponent of womens health for her entire adult life.

The Susan G. Komen Board, not Karen Handel, made the decision to implement new grant criteria that impacted Planned Parenthood, it states.

Personal life

Handel has lived in Georgia's 6th district with her husband, Steve, for almost 25 years, according to her campaign website. She grew up around Washington, D.C., in a Maryland suburb.

She attended both Prince Georges Community College and the University College at the University of Maryland.

She is a fan of the Indianapolis Colts, the New York Times reported.
Jared Kushner made a rare public statement Monday afternoon at a technology summit aimed at modernizing the government.

President Trump's son-in-law and senior White House adviser attended the four-hour event in Washington, D.C., to present ideas on how to tackle government's top technology problem. Apple CEO Tim Cook and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos joined Kushner at the summit.

"We have challenged ourselves to pursue change that will provide utilities to Americans far beyond our tenure here," Kushner said during his speech. "Together we have set ambitious goals and empowered interagency teams to tackle our objectives."

JARED KUSHNER DIDN'T SUGGEST RUSSIAN COMMUNICATIONS CHANNEL IN MEETING, SOURCE SAYS

Kushner said the White House Office of American Innovation was created to bring "business sensability" to the White House that's still relying on practices from previous administrations.

Other topics that were expected to come up during the summit were cybersecurity, analytics and future technology trends.

This is the first public statement Kushner has made since news broke of his involvement in the Russia probe. Kushner met with Russian Ambassador to the U.S. Sergei Kislyak at Trump Tower in December to talk about Syria, a source told Fox News.

Kushner is expected to travel to the Middle East on Monday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah, an effort to broker a peace deal between the two sides.
White House Counselor Kellyanne Conway suggested Monday that the head of the Russia investigation should fully disclose the names of the attorneys hes hired after it was revealed several Democratic donors are part of the team scrutinizing the Trump administration at the highest levels.

I think its relevant information that the public should have, Conway told Fox & Friends.

Special Counsel Robert Muellers office has started to reveal the makeup of its investigative team. A spokesman said Monday theyve hired 13 attorneys, with more in the pipeline. To date, the office has confirmed six names  more could be confirmed in the coming days.

So far, this includes Andrew Weissmann, chief of the DOJ criminal divisions fraud section who also donated $2,300 to Barack Obama in 2008; James Quarles, a Watergate assistant special prosecutor who has donated thousands to Obama, Hillary Clinton and New York Sen. Chuck Schumer; and Jeannie Rhee, deputy assistant AG in the Office of Legal Counsel who has likewise donated thousands to Obama and Clinton.

The donor background has fueled complaints from Trump allies like former House Speaker Newt Gingrich that the probe is not independent. Trump himself has started calling the investigation an all-caps WITCH HUNT.

Asked about the concerns on Monday, Conway echoed them. And so if were going to talk about transparency and accountability and who all the players are here, I think its relevant that people know that Mr. Muellers team includes folks who gave significant amounts of money to Democrats, she said.

Muellers office, though, would be governed by policy rules that bar discrimination in hiring for career positions on the basis of political affiliations, as outlined in a 2008 DOJ inspector general report.

The Trump legal team has grappled in recent days with its response to a Washington Post report that the Mueller probe is now looking at the president over possible obstruction of justice.

Trump at first seemed to acknowledge hes under investigation with a Friday tweet that complained hes under investigation for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! The tweet was a shot at Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who is overseeing the probe and whose memo on James Comeys performance as FBI director was used as the basis for his firing.

Trump attorney Jay Sekulow, though, told Fox News Sunday Trump has not been notified hes under investigation. He repeated that point to Fox & Friends on Monday.

As for the lawyers on Muellers staff, Sekulow said Mueller himself has a sterling reputation in Washington but Trumps team will raise conflicts about the individuals on his team if necessary.

Trump, meanwhile, has recently hired another high-profile attorney, John Dowd, for his legal team. And Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner may be considering new representation.

After the appointment of our former partner Robert Mueller as Special Counsel, we advised Mr Kushner to obtain the independent advice of a lawyer with appropriate experience as to whether he should continue with us as his counsel, Jamie Gorelick, who has been representing Kushner on business and other issues, said in a statement.

Fox News Brooke Singman, John Roberts and Catherine Herridge contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Jared Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trump's international envoy, will arrive on Monday.

Trump made a personal appeal for peace during a visit to Jerusalem last month. He has cast Middle East peace as the "ultimate deal."

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama all tried and failed to achieve a peace deal.

The White House official -- who was not authorized to speak publicly about the trip -- said an agreement will take time.
President Trump slammed North Korea's "brutal regime" Monday after the death of college student Otto Warmbier, who was released by the communist nation in a coma last week.

"Lot of bad things happened," Trump said during a White House meeting with technology CEOs, but at least we got him home to be with his parents."

"It's a brutal regime," Trump went on, "and we'll be able to handle it."

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the United States held North Korea accountable for Warmbier's "unjust imprisonment" and demanded that the country release three other Americans it is holding prisoner for alleged crimes against the state. The U.S. government has previously accused North Korea of using such detainees as political pawns.

Warmbier was held by North Korea for more than 17 months before he was medically evacuated June 13. He died Monday at University of Cincinnati Medical Center, near where he grew up in suburban Wyoming.

Warmbiers family said in a statement that "the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans" meant that "no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today."

In a written statement, Trump said that "Otto's fate deepens my Administration's determination to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency."

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, who has led the charge for tougher sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear missile program, said "Countless innocent men and women have died at the hand of the North Korean criminals, but the singular case of Otto Warmbier touches the American heart like no other.

"While Otto Warmbier's memory will always be a blessing to his loved ones," Haley added, "it will also serve as an indelible reminder to us of the barbaric nature of the North Korean dictatorship."

Warmbier had traveled to North Korea as part of a tour group when he was detained at Pyongyang's airport in January 2016. The company that organized the trip, Young Pioneer Tours, announced after Warmbier's death that it would no longer organize tours of North Korea for U.S. citizens.

"The assessment of risk for Americans visiting North Korea has become too high," said the company, which has also offered tours to Iran, Iraq and former Soviet republicans and boasted of booking "budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from."

The State Department warns against travel to North Korea, but does not explicitly forbid it. While nearly all Americans who have been there have left without incident, visitors can be suddenly seized and face lengthy incarceration for what might seem like minor infractions.

On Capitol Hill, Rep. Ed Royce, R-Calif., the chairman of the House Foreign Relations Committee, called for the U.S. to ban all tourist travel to North Korea.

"Travel propaganda lures far too many people to North Korea," Royce said. "This is a regime that regularly kidnaps foreign citizens and keeps 120,000 North Koreans in barbaric gulags."

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said Warmbier was "murdered by the [North Korean dictator] Kim Jong-un[sic] regime."

"In the final year of his life, he lived the nightmare in which the North Korean people have been trapped for 70 years: forced labor, mass starvation, systematic cruelty, torture, and murder," McCain said, later adding, "The United States of America cannot and should not tolerate the murder of its citizens by hostile powers."

Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, said North Korea should be "universally condemned for its abhorrent behavior. He added that Warmbiers family "had to endure more than any family should have to bear."

Ohios other senator, Democrat Sherrod Brown, said the country's "despicable actions ... must be condemned."

Our hearts are broken for Ottos family and everyone who knew and loved him, Brown added.

The state's governor, John Kasich, described Warmbier as "a young man of exceptional spirit."

"This horrendous situation further underscores the evil, oppressive nature of the North Korean regime that has such disregard for human life," Kasich says.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand has emerged as a key player in the Justice Department's Russia probe, considering she would be next in line to lead the investigation if Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein recuses himself.

The Justice Department has pushed back on that scenario, with spokesman Ian Prior saying, if there comes a time when [Rosenstein] needs to recuse, he will. However, nothing has changed.

But Rosenstein has discussed the issue with Brand, according to an ABC News report published last week. Here's what you need to know about the No. 3 figure in the DOJ.

What do we know about Brand's current role?

Brand, 44, was sworn in as associate attorney general on May 22. The Senate voted to confirm her 52-46 on May 18, with Democrats voting against the appointment. Democratic senators claimed her career showed an inclination toward backing corporate interests, Politico reported.

COULD ROSENSTEIN RECUSE? DEPUTY AG'S ROLE IN QUESTION AS TRUMP TURNS UP HEAT

What do we know about Brand's educational background?

She grew up in Iowa, later attended the University of Minnesota-Morris and graduated from Harvard Law School.

Brand has also been a member of the Federalist Society "intermittently" since 1995, according to her Senate Judiciary Committee questionnaire. The Federalist Society is a well-known conservative- and libertarian-leaning legal organization, whose members include Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, and Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Tx. The late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia had been a faculty adviser to one of the group's chapters.

What did Brand do prior to her current role at the DOJ?

Starting this year, Brand was an associate professor with the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, the questionnaire said.

Brand was on George W. Bush's legal team for the 2000 Florida recount case, Politico reported. She also has experience clerking for both Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Justice Charles Fried and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy.

TRUMP SAYS HE'S UNDER INVESTIGATION, TAKES SWIPE AT ROSENSTEIN

Brand was with the law firm Cooper, Carvin & Rosenthal and later worked as associate counsel to the president under Bush, according to her George Mason bio. Brand worked for the DOJ from 2003 to 2007 and rose to become the assistant attorney general for the Office of Legal Policy in 2005 - a position she held for two years.

In 2011, Brand joined the U.S. Chamber Litigation Center after working in private practice, her Senate questionnaire said. She worked as the vice president and chief counsel for regulatory litigation from 2013 to 2014.

What happened during her Senate confirmation process?

Brand spoke about her time at the Chamber of Commerce in a March Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, explaining that her job as a litigator "was to file lawsuits and file amicus briefs on behalf of that client," Brand said. "If I'm confirmed to this position, of course, I'll have a very different role, I'll have a different client."

Sen. Patrick J. Leahy, D-Vt., accused Brand of having "a heavily skewed, pro-corporate agenda that would do further harm to the Justice Department and its independence" in a statement last month.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Ma., also criticized Brand's nomination in May. "She spent years leading the Chamber of Commerce's assault on the rules that protect working families, evidently deciding time after time that it's corporations that should get every break," Warren said.

WHO IS ROBERT MUELLER? EX-FBI CHIEF TO OVERSEE RUSSIA PROBE AS SPECIAL COUNSEL

What do we know about her relationship with Texas Sen. Ted Cruz?

The Republican senator congratulated his friend Brand on Twitter when she was confirmed as associate attorney general, remarking that she will do a great job. FEC records also show that Brand donated to Cruzs presidential campaign.

What do we know about Brand's family?

She and her husband Jonathan Cohn have two sons, 9-year-old Willem and 7-year-old Gerrit. The couple first met at a Federalist Society student conference, Harvard Law Today reported.
 Flash

A woman rappels down a waterfall during a canyoning excursion in Nepal, blessed with rich resources of rivers and waterfalls. Provided To China Daily

Bulbule Waterfall located in Nuwakot district, about 35 kilometers away from Nepal's capital Kathmandu, was once known as a place for taking cool baths during the summer.

But as soon as the Nepal Canyoning Association explored the 40-meter high waterfall, the place turned into a canyoning destination.

On a recent weekend, over 150 Nepalese and foreign visitors were in Bulbule as part of the 3rd National Canyoning Rendezvous 2017.

The canyoning fiesta was not just about sliding down a rope through a waterfall to a pool below, but included hiking, scrambling, abseiling, jumping and swimming.

"Nepal is blessed with thousands of rivers and waterfalls, but we have not been able to utilize them fully. We want to develop and promote canyoning destinations and make Nepal the best spot for adventure tourism," says Rajendra Lama, the president of the Nepal Canyoning Association.

Though canyoning has been gaining in popularity in Nepal since 2002, it gained official recognition and an organizational structure only in 2007 after the setting up of the Nepal Canyoning Association.

Today, there are more than 70 travel agencies under the association, and more than 30 canyons have been explored across the country.

Travel agencies provide canyoning packages in mountainous districts like Sindhupalchowk, Kavre, Nuwakot, Lamjung and Syangja.

Within Kathmandu valley, canyoning activities are available in Sundarijal, in the lap of Shivapuri National Park.

The Himalayan nation is regarded as the second-richest country after Brazil in water resources as it has more than 6,000 rivers, lakes, ponds, waterfalls and springs. But despite such resources, adventurers complain that the adventure activities available are mostly limited to boating and rafting.

Karna Bahadur Lama, the general secretary of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, says: "Nepal has a unique geography and richness in natural resources. And since tourism is the backbone of the country's economy, we need to tap into the opportunities to attract more foreign tourists."

In 2016, earthquake-ravaged Nepal attracted 729,550 foreign tourists, which is 24 percent more than 2015, the year of the devastating earthquake.

With tourism gradually recovering, entrepreneurs say that activities like canyoning can be a great way to attract and engage foreign tourists.

Canyoning is equally popular with Nepali youngsters. One of the major reasons for its growing popularity is social media, says the Nepal Canyoning Association.

"When we put out posts about the canyoning festival on social media, we received a huge amount of feedback and response from youngsters. Social media is a powerful tool for tourism promotion," the canyoning association president Lama says.

Nepal's canyoning follows international standards. There are more than 30 professional instructors in the country who have received training from American and French professionals, and who are familiar with the country's streams.

During the recent canyoning festival, more than a dozen instructors and volunteers handled the navigation and facilitated the outdoor activities.

While it was the first canyoning experience for most of the participants, they say that it is an unforgettable experience.

"It is the experience of a lifetime. I was scared initially but with proper instructions I got down safely. I would like to do it again," says 22-year-old student Sarose Chaudhary.
President Trump's legal team and his defenders are taking an aggressive defensive stance, now that Special Counsel Bob Mueller has announced an initial hiring of 12 attorneys, some of whom appear to harbor political leanings.

In an appearance on ABC's This Week, former House Speaker, and Trump advisor, Newt Gingrich suggested it raises questions of a politically motivated prosecution.

"The first four names are all people who gave to Democrats," Gingrich said. "Now in this environment with a Justice Department where 97 percent of the donations last year went to Hillary -- 97 percent -- explain to me why I should relax as a Republican."

On the same program, Adam Schiff (D-CA.,) the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee dismissed that claim as a simple case of a Trump surrogate doing his bosss bidding.

The President is attacking Bob Mueller, and therefore Newt Gingrich is attacking Bob Mueller," Schiff said. "But the reality is that members of Congress on both sides of the aisle find Mr. Mueller to be a man of incredible integrity and courage. It's going to take a lot more than a few presidential tweets, or Newt Gingrich, to try to besmear this very good man."

According the Federal Election Commission records, among Muellers hires, Jeannie Rhee donated $5,400 to Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign.

Andrew Weissmann, a longtime Mueller associate, donated six times to President Obama's political action committees for a total of $4,700.

James Quarles, an assistant special prosecutor on the Watergate Special Prosecution Force, donated more than 10 times to Democratic PAC's over the last 30 years, for presidential candidates Michael Dukakis, Al Gore, John Kerry and Hillary Clinton. He has also donated to Republicans -- including Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz and former Virginia Governor George Allen.

Add to those apparent political leanings the Special Counsel's potentially limitless spending -- paid out of DOJ's budget.

Throw into the mix a prosecutor's power. In a 2013 scholarly article entitled, Ham Sandwich Nation, Due Process When Everything is a Crime," University of Tennessee Law Professor Glenn Reynolds wrote: "The actual decision whether or not to charge a person with a crime is almost completely unconstrained."

George Washington University Law Professor Jonathan Turley believes the political contributions of some members of the Mueller team are troubling.

"It's surprising that Robert Mueller went to these attorneys. Most special prosecutors involved in this type of litigation would have avoided as much as possible people with political ties or contributions." he added, "When you're investigating the president of the United States, you should be trying to avoid any questions of political bias or influence."

The Special Counsel's Office defends the hires, noting that federal law, "prohibits the Special Counsel from taking into consideration political affiliation in its hiring."

Just as troublesome to the White House: Mueller hire Michael Dreeben has argued on behalf of the government on the need to expand the definition of obstruction of justice. While a second hire, Andrew Weissman, has a reputation for aggressively turning witnesses.
The Supreme Court on Monday struck down a state law limiting access for registered sex offenders to websites like Facebook.

The North Carolina law had made it a felony to log onto certain sites that are "known" to allow minors to access. Under that law, convicted sex offender Lester Packingham was arrested after police noticed a 2010 Facebook posting celebrating the dismissal of a traffic ticket.

In the majority opinion on Monday, Justice Anthony Kennedy concluded, It is well established that, as a general rule, the Government may not suppress lawful speech as the means to suppress unlawful speech. That is what North Carolina has done here. Its law must be held invalid.

Packingham was prosecuted, convicted of a felony and received a suspended prison sentence. His lawyers, though, said no evidence pointed to Packingham using Facebook or his computer to communicate with minors or that he posted anything inappropriate or obscene.

In the courts majority opinion, Kennedy wrote that to foreclose access to social media altogether is to prevent the user from engaging in the legitimate exercise of First Amendment rights.

He wrote, Even convicted criminalsand in some instances especially convicted criminalsmight receive legitimate benefits from these means for access to the world of ideas, in particular if they seek to reform and to pursue lawful and rewarding lives.

Three conservative JusticesJohn Roberts, Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomasagreed that the law violates free speech, but said Kennedys opinion went too far in suggesting states have a very limited role in restricting unlimited Internet access from dangerous sexual predators.

Fox News Bill Mears and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
EXCLUSIVE: As the Syria regime of Bashar Assad grinds out a piecemeal victory in ravaged areas of resistance, the United Nations faces a new challenge: how, and with whom, it will help the regime rebuild -- and in the process might further help to consolidate Assads sway.

Among other things, Fox News has learned, such recovery work has already involved local cooperation between one U.N. organization, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and a charity placed on a U.S. sanctions list last month for its close ties to Assads militias and to the dictators crony billionaire cousin, Rami Makhlouf, who was also sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury much earlier.

According to an internal U.N. document examined by Fox News, the small-scale project involved little more than assistance last year, with funding from Kuwait, to revive a number of local handmade carpet cooperatives, using funding from Kuwait, in cooperation with local communities and Al Bustan NGO.

That appeared to be a reference to the Al Bustan Charity organization, an entity sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury on May 16, 2017. Treasury declared at the time, Makhlouf created a vast private network of miitias and security-linked institutions through al-Bustan, a prominent organization recruiting and mobilizing individuals to support and augment Syrian military forces.

Indeed the role of Al Bustan, in supporting and orchestrating Assads militia forces, had been common knowledge for years.

In response to questions from Fox News about that relationship, an IOM spokesperson declared that individual countries have bilateral sanction lists which do not necessarily apply to the U.N., but that IOM continues to ensure that any assistance provided inside Syria is directed to beneficiaries without regard to political affiliation, geographic location, ethnic, tribal or religious identify or without regard to other external factors.

He also said, by way of justification, that all partners inside Syria (U.N. or international NGOs) are required to work in cooperation with local NGOs approved by the Government of Syria. IOM for most part does not transfer funding directly to these partners, but provides in kind contributions such as raw materials. Moreover, he said, IOM staff are present during distributions/activities with local partners, and monitor closely all activities involving in-kind donations.

Whether the safeguards that IOM outlined were, in fact, always in place is impossible for outsiders to verify; the project seems small in terms of the sweep of sinister activities attributed to Al Bustanbut for that reason even more puzzling.

Nonetheless, the same document that referenced the Al Bustan project underlined many other close ties that the U.N. is cultivating as a matter of normal practice with Assad to rebuild not only social services and infrastructure, but also economic activity in Assad-controlled communities, not to mention capacity development skills, knowledge and training  for Assad-dominated institutions around the country.

The document, a draft version of a year-end examination of a two-year Syria U.N. Strategic Framework that was signed in February 2016, shows the deeply hand-in-glove relationship a variety of U.N. institutions are building with Assad that are aimed at building the resilience and improving the lives of the people of Syria, particularly the most vulnerable.

The strategic framework is the renewal of a conventional U.N. exercise with the governments of developing countries that was suspended, in Syrias case, in the worst carnage of its civil war, but has evidently been renewed, even though fighting, and complaints about Assads atrocities, continue, along with the regimes cold-blooded manipulation of humanitarian relief.

A new Syria strategic framework for 2018-2019 is already under discussion.

The self-declared aim of the Year-End Review, written in the U.N.s customary opaque prose, was to assess progress in implementation of programs agreed with the Assad regime, identify achievements and reflect on the lessons and priorities for 2017.

A final version of the Review, according to a spokesperson for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), which coordinated the effort, is an internal UN management document and is not meant for dissemination.

Among other things, it noted:

? A number of U.N. agencies were preparing to help the regime, perhaps in 2017, carry out a survey that aims at providing the government of Syria and all key partners with reliable evidence-based information which will support planning, programming and policy development in many different sectors.

? Another agency, U.N. Habitat, is helping with a Municipal and Neighborhood Planning Approach used in at least 12 municipalities to identify strategic priorities to support the return of [internally displaced persons] and neighborhood action plans while at the same time Assad is deporting refugees arbitrarily from reconquered cities and towns.

? The same agency is helping municipalities to recover lost or damaged housing property documents in areas of high return potential, and also holding workshops for residents to learn how to restart small and micro businesses that were damaged during the crisis.

? Most agencies are still involved in an expanding array of humanitarian interventions, including the supply of food, water, health and education, but are branching out into areas such as providing best practices in agricultural, community centers where remedial education programs and other programs can be provided by the government, and various other close cooperative efforts.

These development activities, notes a humanitarian expert with considerable knowledge of Syria, are different even from the controversially one-sided emergency humanitarian relief that the U.N. has provided to allay one of the worst refugee crises since World War II.

There is, he said, an ethical risk in reinforcing facts on the ground and re-engineering the ethnic geography of Syria as a result of the programs, which are, after all, co-written with a government that is still keeping ordinary relief supplies away from hundreds of thousands of people, expelling residents from their communities and engaging in countless illegal violent attacks in contravention to international law.

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The deeper risks of that re-engineering, and the U.N.s potential role in it, have already been examined in an independent study of the Syrian city of Homs, which was devastated by the Assad regime and surrendered to the regime in 2014, an event also followed by mass deportations.

The study conducted by a Dutch NGO, Pax, and the Syria Institute, an independent, Washington-based think tank, warns that the deported residents are effectively excluded from rebuilding efforts undertaken by the Syrian government in cooperation with U.N. agencies with the support of foreign donor states.

The study also notes that international support for Syrian government efforts to rebuild the Homs neighborhoods that it intentionally destroyed and depopulated may serve to incentivize similar atrocities elsewhere by paying the government war crimes dividends instead of holding it accountable. Indeed, the Homs model has served as a blueprint for the destruction and depopulation of other key locations, such as eastern Aleppo, which fell to Assad in late 2016.

The study, based mostly on interviews with deportees, notes that U.N.-assisted efforts to clear debris and re-establish civic life in Homs does not appear to include efforts to account for the rights of original property owners.

The efforts also served to fortify and consolidate the holdings of Homs Alawite residents, members of the same minority group as Assad, and considered the regimes strongest supporters.

Through its rehabilitation and support efforts in Homs, the study warns, U.N. agencies may be inadvertently deepening sectarian schisms, validating war crimes, and removing any hope of return for many of the original inhabitants.

Meantime, the mayhem continues across Syria, as Assad and his Russian and Iranian allies carry out more of the surrender or die strategy that aims crushing attacks against resistance controlled areas, and continues to bomb hospitals, civil centers, schools and civilian markets as part of the process, actions that are all considered war crimes.

According to the non-government organization Siege Watch  also supported by Pax and the Syria Institute -- in a report issued June 19, at least five Syrian communities have surrendered to Assad between February and April, accompanied by forced deportations of tens of thousands --also considered a war crime  and in many cases continued atrocities.

Meantime, U.N. humanitarian convoys continue to be blocked by Assads military from still-besieged areas, and medical supplies are routinely removed, despite U.N. protests, when they get through.

Thus the biggest paradox of all in the U.N.s strategic framework efforts in Syria: the world organization is partnered with a tyrant in restoring a country he is still in the process of destroying.
You would think a six-story rubber ducky would make playtime lots of fun for everyone.

Unfortunately, not everyone is celebrating a giant rubber duck installation that is set to visit Torontos HTO Park on Canada Day, July 1, for Canadas 150th anniversary, during the Redpath Waterfront Festival.

The giant duck is not, in fact, the same giant rubber duck sculpture by artist Florentijn Hofman that has been floating around the world, showing up in cities like Sao Paulo, Osaka and Seoul over the last 10 years.

A statement made by Hofmans studio claims that the duck that is set to visit Canada is a counterfeit. However, a CBC report claims the design for the quintessential rubber duck that we all remember from our bathtubs is actually public domain.

Other detractors of the duck go beyond artistic integrity. Politicians and the public are criticizing the Ontario government for paying $120,000 CAD through a grant to bring the duck to the province. Many believe this is far too much to pay for a rubber duck.

According to the BBC, Ontario's Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Eleanor McMahon said the duck was fun and sort of quirky.

Love or hate the duck, plenty of visitors will be able to snap a selfie with it come Canada Day.
Passengers aboard an overnight flight from Paris to China got a rude awakening on Sunday when their aircraft hit heavy turbulence en route to China.

Twenty-six people aboard China Eastern Airlines Flight MU774 were injured after their plane hit a pocket of rough air on its way into the Yunnan capital of Kunming, at least one of whom claims he was fearful for his life during the ordeal.

I was on the flight, and I felt like I would not survive, wrote one passenger on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, reports the South China Morning Post.

CHILD BORN ON JET AIRWAYS FLIGHT GETS FREE TICKETS FOR LIFE

According to the site, some of the passengers were thrown from their seats when turbulence struck. Others were injured when luggage jostled out of the overhead bins and fell on top of them, the local hospitals say.

BBC News further reports that some of the passengers collided with the overhead compartments so forcefully, that the overhead racks themselves were left broken from the impact.

Reported injuries include everything from cuts and bruises to minor wounds and bone fractures.

That same passenger who spoke of the flight on Weibo claims that most of the people who were affected had not buckled up.

Despite the heavy turbulence, China Eastern Airlines confirmed that the flight landed at approximately 9 a.m., or only about an hour later than it was scheduled to arrive.

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The airline confirmed that passengers were being treated for injuries at two nearby hospitals following the harrowing ordeal.

China Eastern Airlines made headlines last week after a flight from Sydney to Shanghai was forced to make an emergency landing after an engine became damaged shortly after takeoff. Upon landing, passengers even noticed a large hole in the plane near the engine.

In 2016, the Associated Press also reported that seven passengers were injured during a particularly turbulent descent into a Sydney airport.

A representative for China Eastern Airlines was not immediately available for comment.
An exorcism performed on a naked 11-year-old Northern California girl nearly resulted in the childs death  and authorities say the exorcist was the girls mother.

Kimberly Felder, 45 of Ferndale, was charged Friday with trying to kill her daughter, the Sacramento Bee reported.

In a press release, the Humboldt County Sheriffs Office hailed a Good Samaritan who tried to stop the exorcism. They said the man wrestled Felder to the ground as she pounded her daughter in the head with a piece of driftwood. A short time later a deputy arrived and handcuffed Felder.

If it were not for the intervention and heroic actions of John Marciel, it is very likely that the child would have been killed by Felder, the sheriffs office said in the press release.

Deputies said they went to the beach in Ferndale in response to a 911 call saying that Felder was attempting to perform an exorcism on the girl, the Bee reported.

The caller stated that Felder had stripped her daughter naked and was shoving handfuls of sand down her throat.

According to the press release, Felder "stated she was trying to remove the demons from the child.

It also said that as the exorcism continued, the girl was viciously struck, bit and choked.

There were others on the beach who witnessed the event, the press release noted.

The Bee quoted the Sheriffs Office as saying that the girl was taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries that included severe damage to an ear.

The charges against Felder include attempted homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, felony child abuse and aggravated mayhem.

She is being held at the Humboldt County Correction Facility in Eureka.
The U.S. military on Sunday shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants, an action that appeared to mark a new escalation of the conflict.

The U.S. had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation, said Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman. While the U.S. has said since it began recruiting, training and advising what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces to fight IS that it would protect them from potential Syrian government retribution, this was the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.

The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq said in a written statement that a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces.

The shootdown was near Tabqa, a Syrian town in an area that has been a weekslong focus of fighting against IS militants by the SDF as they surround the city of Raqqa and attempt to retake it from IS.

The U.S. military statement said it acted in "collective self defense" of its partner forces and that the U.S. did not seek a fight with the Syrian government or its Russian supporters.

According to a statement from the Pentagon, pro-Syrian regime forces attacked the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces-held town of Ja'Din, south of Tabqah in northern Syria, wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town.

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force and stopped the initial pro-regime advance toward the town, the Pentagon said. Following the pro-Syrian forces attack, the coalition called its Russian counterparts "to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing," according to the statement.

A few hours later, the Syrian SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters and, "in collective self-defense of coalition-partnered forces," was immediately shot down by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet, the Pentagon said.

"The coalition's mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria," the Pentagon said, using an abbreviation for the Islamic State group. "The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat. "

U.S. forces tangled earlier this month with Syria-allied aircraft in the region. On June 8, U.S. officials reported that a drone likely connected to Iranian-supported Hezbollah forces fired on U.S.-backed troops and was shot down by an American fighter jet. The incident took place in southern Syria near a base where the U.S.-led coalition was training Syrian rebels fighting the Islamic State group.

An Army spokesman at the Pentagon said at the time that the drone carried more weapons and was considered a direct threat, prompting the shootdown.

___

Associated Press writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.
The shooting of Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., by a man authorities identify as a left-wing activist has drawn attention to a darker side of progressive America, especially to those groups that directly or indirectly advocate violence against their opponents.

The emergence of violence-prone individuals, such as Scalises shooter, and extremist progressive groups broadens the nations conversation about political violence to include liberals as well as conservatives, many of whom are often labeled as fascists by mainstream media and progressive leaders.

Many Republican leaders and conservative experts said the violence allegedly committed by James T. Hodgkinson, a volunteer on the presidential campaign of Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders, was an outgrowth of hostility toward Trump and Republicans underscored by actions such as those of Kathy Griffin, Snoop Dogg, Madonna and the Public Theaters production of Julius Caesar, which portrayed Julius Caesar, who is assassinated in the play.

Many political experts note that those high-profile cases of promoting violence are just the tip of an iceberg that remains on the margins of public awareness.

Part of that iceberg emerged in Harrisburg, Pa., when a member of an alt-left group known as Antifa allegedly attacked a police horse in Harrisburg, Pa., with a pole that had nails protruding out of the end of it. Lisa Joy Simon was charged with aggravated assault to police, taunting police animals, resisting arrest and related offenses. The alt-left group was opposing a protest against Sharia law.

In April authorities in Portland, Ore., cancelled an annual parade because an alt-left group threatened to unleash 200 or more activists to attack the Republican Party's contingent.

Several groups across the country appear to promote violence against conservatives and the defense of liberal ideology  by any means necessary.

One group actually calls itself By Any Means Necessary, or BAMN.

Its founder, civil rights lawyer and BAMN leader Shanta Driver, told Mother Jones magazine, When we say by any means necessary, we mean everything from doing legal cases to organizing more militant actions. We are not people who believe, in situations where were under attack, that we should turn the other check.

Similar groups are Redneck Revolt and the Huey P. Newton Gun Club, which says among its mission is to educate black, brown, and poor white people to arms up or at least get familiar with weapons, according to founder Yafeuh Baloguns remarks to Mother Jones.

BAMN was part of a group that engaged in a counter-protest last year in Sacramento for a showdown against white nationalists. The counter-protesters attacked the nationalists with water bottles and wooden bats, according to published reports.

Larry Alex Taunton, a cultural commentator and a Fox News contributor, said he sees a potentially dangerous, slippery slope as various factors combine to create  even unwittingly  the impression that violence is a legitimate response when a political leader, party or action is disliked.

Taunton told Fox News that while people on both the left and right may be guilty of declining civility when debating politics, he is particularly alarmed by many liberals hostility toward Trump and what he depicts as the rage over his winning the election. Taunton has written about the so-called resistence movement, which conjures up a message of rejecting him as the elected president and creating an atmosphere that encourages a rising up.

Gone are the days when the losing party went quietly exited the stage and recognized their defeat, Taunton said, and made some semblance of cooperation with the president, whoever that was, and regrouped and tried to win the next election.

You [end up with] plays that celebrate the assassination of the president, or a comedienne making light of assassinating the president. The whole resistance movement is encouraging these kinds of attitudes that seem to imply violence toward the president and those who support his agenda.

Recent left-wing violence at Washington states Evergreen State College worries experts on political extremism.

"This is a dangerous game; people are going to die. No one's died yet, but it's just a matter of time," J.J. McNabb, of George Washington University, said, adding that Antifa shouldn't get a pass on their violence just because they oppose white supremacists.

"These guys [white supremicists] are odious, [but] attack them with words. Don't come in with sticks and nails in them," she said.

Alt-left groups also take aim at Democrats they feel are too elitist, or too loyal to the party establishment. They were vocal critics of Hillary Clinton during her presidential campaign, and often assailed President Barack Obama.

This year, they were linked to vandalism during Trumps inauguration ceremonies and vandalism at an otherwise peaceful protest against conservative writer Milo Yiannopouloss planned speech at University of California, Berkeley.

Last weeks attack on Republicans prompted many lawmakers to call for a timeout on incendiary rhetoric that could provoke the worst instincts in some.

Bill Mitchell, a pro-Trump radio host, tweeted: "The Left in this country is ushering in a new #CultureOfViolence where violent hate is the new normal. #DomesticTerrorists, he added in a follow-up tweet.
Ocala Fire Rescue confirms that one person is dead after being shot at the Ken's Winghouse of Ocala around 10 p.m. last night.

Two men reportedly got into an argument at the restaurant. Blows were exchanged and one man pulled a gun on the other. Numerous shots were fired into his chest and back.

A witness, 39-year-old Matthew Boyd, said he was with his 14-year-old daughter celebrating Father's Day dinner when the incident occurred. He said he saw a guy run in front of them, then heard " a popping noise." Boyd went on to say that his daughter saw a man hit another man at the restaurant.

MYRTLE BEACH SHOOTING CAPTURED ON FACEBOOK LIVE INJURES 6, SUSPECT NABBED

"[A] Gentleman was shooting at another guy. [The] Guy was done shooting and walked away. I followed after him and told him to get on the ground."

Boyd said he held the suspect down, without any weapons, until police got there.

The victim was transported to the hospital, but declared dead. The shooter is in custody.

READ MORE FROM FOX 35 ORLANDO.
A Colorado group is looking to curb the sales of cellphones to children under 13 years old and officials in the state have cleared the language for a proposed ballot measure.

Parents Against Underage Smartphones, the backers of the move, would now need about 300,000 voter signatures for the legislation to make the 2018 ballot.

The ban would require cellphone retailers to ask customers about the age of the primary user of a smartphone and submit monthly reports to the Colorado Department of Revenue on adhering to the requirement.

Retailers who sell a phone for use by a pre-teen would get a warning for the first offense, but may face fines from $500 to $20,000 for continued violations, according to KDVR-TV.

"Eventually kids are going to get phones and join the world, and I think we all know that, but little children, there's just no good that comes from that," Dr. Tim Farnum, who is leading the movement, told The Coloradoan on Saturday.

Farnum said he was inspired to make the push after watching his own kids struggle with the psychological effects of always having a device in hand.

"They would get the phone and lock themselves in their room and change who they were," he said.

Democratic state Sen. John Kefalas said he understands the reasoning behind the proposed law. But he told the newspaper that it would overstep the government's role.

"Frankly, I think it should remain a family matter," he said. "Ultimately, this comes down to parents ... making sure their kids are not putting themselves at risk."

Last fall, the American Academy of Pediatrics released new guidelines for children's media use, including smartphones.

The doctors recommended restricting screen time to no more than an hour a day of high-quality programming until age 6, after which parents should set consistent time limits and make sure electronic devices don't take time away from sleep or physical activity.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
 Flash

Green paradise Shennongjia's well-preserved natural beauty recently earned it the privilege of hosting the first China Cultural and Natural Heritage Day and a world natural heritage conference on June 10. [Photo by Yang Feiyue/China Daily]

It is practically a world surrounded by green. And it is cool during our visit in early June, with its green mountains and gurgling rivers covered by a mist.

Shennongjia, in the western part of Hubei province, in central China, has long been known for its pristine environment, diverse landscapes and wildlife. It not only has magnificent peaks that stand more than 3,000 meters above sea level, but also grand and quiet valleys.

Here, geologists have found strata from the past one billion years and call the region a museum, says Li Faping, a senior official in Shennongjia.

At the same time, waterfalls, rivers and lakes have given rise to an impressive cave system underground.

Its well-preserved natural beauty recently earned Shennongjia the privilege of hosting the first China Cultural and Natural Heritage Day and a world natural heritage conference on June 10.

The event was jointly hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Construction and the Hubei government.

Meanwhile, the State Council has penciled in every second Tuesday of June as heritage day from this year to raise public awareness about natural landscapes, history and culture protection.
The designer of the 9/11 Memorial in New York has been chosen to create a second memorial dedicated to the nine worshipers killed by a white supremacist in a South Carolina church.

The Emanuel AME church in Charleston announced on Saturday  the second anniversary of the massacre  that famed architect Michael Arad would design the memorial.

If we are able to shine a light on the beauty, resiliency, and love that was shown by members of this congregation and the community of Charleston, said the Rev. Eric Manning, the churchs current pastor, we will succeed in showing the best of humankind in the wake of the worst.

The shooter, Dylann Roof, was sentenced to death in January. A federal jury in Indiana found him guilty of hate crimes. Roof fired 77 bullets during the final prayer of a Wednesday night bible study on June 17, 2015.

The somber anniversary commemoration on Saturday in Charleston featured a Hate Wont Win Unity Walk and a crowd rendition of Amazing Grace.

THE LATEST: VIDEOS SHOW DYLANN ROOF, FAMILY IN JAIL VISITS

Last year, family and friends dedicated 15 trees on Emanuel AMEs front lawn  one for each of the dead, the five people inside the church who survived the slaughter, and one for the churchs congregation. This year, plaques were placed under each tree.

The church is still making changes and adjusting to life after the massacre. The weekly bible study was moved from the church fellowship hall where the shooting occurred to spare members from reliving the horror every week. The room still has unpatched bullet holes, according to the Post and Courier of Charleston.

Some members want to redesign the hall to remove any reminders of the massacre. Others, including the pastor, want it restored to look the same. No decision has been made yet.

Before the shooting occurred, Emanuel AME would welcome and individually recognize each visitor between hymns and the sermon. Since the shooting, there have been so many new visitors that recognizing each new member took up too much time and overshadowed the service, Manning said.

DLYANN ROOF PLEADS GUILTY TO MURDER IN CHARLESTON CHURCH MASSACRE

So now visitors are welcome as a group, with a brief word before the start of the service. Members greet the pastor in return with a short song: Emanuel, God is with us. Emanuel, in Him do we trust. We welcome you to this holy place. We welcome you to Emanuel.

I did not want worship service to continue to be a spectator sport, Manning told the newspaper. Some people may not agree with me, and I understand that. But my job is to protect worship.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
The U.S. shoots down a Syrian fighter jet for the first time. Syria attacks America's allies against Islamic State militants. Iran fires missiles into Syria. Russia threatens to target U.S. coalition planes.

As Syria's complex war ramps up, the Trump administration is scrambling to tamp down tensions and avoid open hostilities with the Russians.

This weekend's fast-paced developments bring new urgency to easing escalating strains between Washington and Moscow, who are both fighting in Syria but with opposing objectives. It's an effort made more complicated by the increasingly messy battlefield in the Arab country, which includes deepening Iranian involvement  its first missile foray into Syria occurred Sunday  and an ongoing probe in the United States into Russian meddling in the presidential election.

In the first high-level U.S. public comments about the situation, Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Monday the former Cold War foes are in delicate discussions to restore normalcy to communications and maintain focus on fighting IS instead of each other.

"The worst thing any of us could do right now is address this with hyperbole," Dunford said at the National Press Club.

Throughout Syria's six-and-a-half year civil war, the United States has supported rebels opposed to President Bashar Assad's government and extremist groups like IS, while Russia has backed Assad. And that disagreement has constrained American leaders, who've made clear that any U.S. military activity in Syria avoid provoking an open confrontation between the U.S. and Russia, the world's two greatest nuclear powers.

At the White House, spokesman Sean Spicer said: "It's important and crucial that we keep lines of communication open to deconflict potential issues." The U.S. and Russia use the term "deconfliction" for discussions to prevent mishaps between their planes flying in Syria's skies.

But in a warning that the U.S. would protect its partners, Spicer said: "The Syrian regime and others in the region need to understand that we will retain the right of self-defense of coalition forces aligned against ISIS."

Tensions rose Sunday as the U.S. shot down a Syrian Air Force SU-22 fighter that U.S. officials said had bombed American-backed Syrian fighters involved in an emerging battle to recapture the Islamic State's self-declared capital of Raqqa. The U.S.-led coalition said it acted in "collective self-defense" of partnered forces. Russia called it a "cynical" violation of the Arab country's sovereignty.

Russia said its warplanes were flying over Syria at the time of the shootdown and the U.S. failed to use the existing deconfliction channel between U.S. military officers at al-Udeid air base in Qatar and Russian officers at Hemeimeem air base.

"We view these actions by the U.S. military as a deliberate failure to heed its obligations," the Defense Ministry said, adding that it was immediately suspending cooperation under an October 2015 agreement to ensure safe air operations over Syria. It also issued what appeared a threat to target U.S. coalition aircraft flying west of the Euphrates River.

Dunford seemed unperturbed.

"I'm confident that we are still communicating," he said, adding: "I'm also confident that our forces have the capability to take care of themselves."

The immediate effect on the U.S.-led campaign against IS is unclear. Coalition aircraft will continue flying throughout Syria, although some assets will be repositioned, said Col. Ryan Dillon, a coalition spokesman.

"We are going to make sure that we have the right aircraft in the right places," he said, noting that some aircraft may have to avoid "high-threat" areas.

The U.S. and its coalition partners fly combat and support missions daily out of several bases in the Middle East, including in Qatar and Turkey. The flights support Syrian Arab and Kurdish fighters aligned against Islamic State militants. The U.S. also has about 1,000 troops on the ground in Syria advising local fighters.

Russia has fighter aircraft, air defense weapons and other military assets in Syria in support of President Bashar Assad's government. Moscow has said it entered the fight mainly to combat IS. "We'll see if that's true here in the coming hours," Dunford said.

Syria's latest developments add significance to talks set for Friday in St Petersburg between senior U.S. and Russian diplomats meant to focus on key differences in the relationship, such as Syria and Ukraine. Tom Shannon, the State Department No. 3, will meet Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister.

"The Russians clearly are doing a lot of sabre rattling right now, but the reality is that the United States has significantly superior air power in the region, and it would be extremely foolish for the Russians to pick a fight with the United States in Syria," said Nile Gardiner, an international affairs expert at the Heritage Foundation think tank. "The balance of power in Syria is shifting away from Moscow and you are having a more assertive U.S. presence in the region."

___

Associated Press writer Lolita C. Baldor in Washington and Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed to this report.
Authorities on Monday asked for information about four former Ohio residents who may have moved to Alaska as part of their investigation into the unsolved slayings of eight family members last year.

Investigators said they're seeking details on personal or business interactions and conversations that people may have had with the four, who once lived near the victims in southern Ohio.

"Specifically, information could include, but is not limited to, information regarding vehicles, firearms, and ammunition," Attorney General Mike DeWine and Pike County Sheriff Charles Reader said in a statement.

The four were named as George "Billy" Wagner III, Angela Wagner and their sons George Wagner IV and Edward "Jake" Wagner. None was named a suspect.

Jake Wagner was a long-time former boyfriend of Hanna Rhoden, one of the eight victims, and shared custody of their daughter at the time of the massacre.

Jake Wagner and Angela Wagner told the Cincinnati Enquirer this month they were not involved in the April 2016 killings.

"Please let's concentrate on finding the real monsters who did this," Jake Wagner said in a combined email from him and his mother, the newspaper reported June 8.

In May, investigators searched property in southern Ohio recently sold by the Wagners. The family, formerly of Peebles, is believed to be living in Alaska.

"What has happened to us in the last few weeks has been devastating and will follow us for the rest of our lives," Angela Wagner wrote in an email to the Enquirer. "Hanna was loved by all of us. She was like a daughter to me then and now."

Authorities suspect there were multiple attackers who were familiar with the victims' homes and the surrounding area. The motive behind the April 22, 2016, killings remains a mystery.

Besides Hanna Rhoden, those killed in the attack were her father, Christopher Rhoden Sr.; her mother, Dana Rhoden; her brothers Clarence "Frankie" Rhoden and Christopher Rhoden Jr.; Frankie Rhoden's fiancee, Hannah Gilley; a cousin, Gary Rhoden; and Kenneth Rhoden, Christopher Rhoden's brother. They ranged in age from 16 to 44.

DeWine's office has said Christopher Rhoden Sr. had "a large-scale marijuana growing operation," leading to speculation the killings were drug-related.

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Andrew Welsh-Huggins can be reached on Twitter at https://twitter.com/awhcolumbus. His work can be found at http://bigstory.ap.org/content/andrew-welsh-huggins

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This story has been corrected to show the father's name is George "Billy" Wagner III, not George "Billy" Wagner IV.
Fliers have been circulating around a community in upstate New York advertising a Ku Klux Klan rally under a seemingly new name.

The fliers, signed the Kool Kids Klub and packaged in small plastic bags with cat litter, were found on driveways in Northville and local police are asking for the publics help to determine where they came from.

STUDENT NEWSPAPER CONSIDERS NAME CHANGE AFTER KKK CONFUSION

The Fulton County Sheriffs Office posted an image of the bags on Facebook and asked if anyone has any information, to contact their office.

The informational pamphlets advertise a Klan Rally in Charlottesville, Va., in July. Stop the cultural genocide of white people, the flier said. The Kool Kids Klub wants you!

The Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan in Virginia requested a permit to rally July 8 in protest of the City Council's decision to remove a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a local park, according to The Daily Progress.

STUDENTS DISCIPLINED FOR WEARING KKK-LIKE GARB TO SCHOOL

The fliers were discovered in New York less than a month after KKK fliers were found in a Texas City neighborhood Memorial Day weekend. Those fliers, combined with pieces of candy, said Join the best or die like the rest.
The Latest on authorities seeking information about four people in relation to last year's massacre of a family of eight (all times local):

5:50 p.m.

Investigators are asking for information about four former Ohio residents as part of their investigation into the unsolved slaying of eight family members last year.

Authorities on Monday said they're seeking details on personal or business interactions and conversations with the four who once lived near the victims in southern Ohio.

Attorney General Mike DeWine and Pike County Sheriff Charles Reader said those interactions could involve vehicles, firearms and ammunition.

The four were named as George "Billy" Wagner III; Angela Wagner; and their sons George Wagner IV and Edward "Jake" Wagner.

None is identified as suspects. Jake Wagner once dated Hanna Rhoden, one of the eight victims.

Jake Wagner and Angela Wagner told the Cincinnati Enquirer earlier this month they were not involved in the April 2016 killings.

___

3:40 p.m.

Investigators are asking for information about four former Ohio residents as part of their investigation into the unsolved slaying of eight family members last year.

Authorities on Monday said they're seeking details on personal or business interactions and conversations with the four who once lived near the victims in southern Ohio.

Attorney General Mike DeWine and Pike County Sheriff Charles Reader said those interactions could involve vehicles, firearms and ammunition.

The four were named as George "Billy" Wagner III; Angela Wagner; and their sons George Wagner IV and Edward "Jake" Wagner.

None is identified as suspects. Jake Wagner once dated Hanna Rhoden, one of the eight victims.

Jake Wagner and Angela Wagner told the Cincinnati Enquirer earlier this month they were not involved in the April 2016 killings.

___

This story has been corrected to show the father's name is George "Billy" Wagner III, not George "Billy" Wagner IV.
A 16-year-old boy accused of breaking into a sporting goods store and swiping a gun at a mall outside Boston was in custody Monday after a search that stretched on for hours, police announced.

Officers had warned that an "armed and dangerous intruder" was inside the Dick's Sporting Goods at the Square One Mall in Saugus, about 10 miles northeast of Boston.

Saugus Police Chief Dominic DiMella said police saw the suspect with a "long gun," but the firearm has not been recovered yet, Fox 25 reported.

Shoppers were urged to "avoid the mall area at this time," the Saugus Police Department said in a statement.

PENNSYLVANIA BOY, 4, DIES AFTER SHOOTING SELF IN FACE

The mall will remain closed until further notice, Fox 25 Boston reported. Officials at the mall wrote on Twitter they would announce an opening time later.

Entrances and exits to the mall were blocked.

Click here for more from Fox 25.
A Massachusetts man accused of killing "Baby Doe," dumping her body into Boston Harbor, and sparking a month-long police investigation to identify her, said he would not testify in his trial Monday.

Michael P. McCarthy, 37, said to Suffolk Superior Court Judge Janet L. Sander that he would not take the stand in his own defense, according to the Boston Globe.

McCarthy was accused of killing 2-year-old Bella Bond in 2015, the daughter of his former girlfriend Rachelle Bond. The little girls remains were found washed ashore on Deer Island on June 25 of that year. Investigators called the toddler Baby Doe while they worked to identify her. A composite image of Bella was shared by millions of people on social media after her body was found.

Jonathan Shapiro, McCarthys defense attorney, told jurors that Bond killed the child. McCarthy has pleaded not guilty.

MASSACHUSETTS MALL INTRUDER CAUGHT AFTER SEARCH, POLICE SAY

However, Bond testified earlier this month against McCarthy, saying she saw him punch the little Bella in her abdomen repeatedly until she died. Bond said she made a mistake and did not call the police after her daughter died. Bond pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact for helping McCarthy dispose of Bellas body.

Prosecutors allege that Bella had been abused before she was killed, and McCarthy murdered her because he thought she was possessed by evil spirits, according to People.

She was a demon anyway, it was her time to die, McCarthy allegedly told Bond when her daughter was found dead.

TEXTING SUICIDE VERDICT: MICHELLE CARTER GUILTY OF INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER

Jurors will listen to a recorded interview from 2015 the suspect had with State Trooper Joel Balducci. Parts of the recording have been played for jurors already. In the recording, McCarthy denied injuring and killing Bella. He also said Bond blamed him to cover herself.

On Monday, the defense rested its case and, if convicted of first-degree murder, McCarthy could face life in prison without parole.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A 9-year-old boy shot in the head through a car window is alive but in critical condition in Jackson, Mississippi, local media report.

Kendrick Jackson, 26, and Lakia Bradley, 35, have been charged with aggravated assault in connection with the shooting that wounded Richard Kyles. Jackson reportedly is the ex-boyfriend of the boy's mother.

Deneka Frazier was driving home with four kids in the car when she noticed a car following her.

I got on McDowell Road on my way home and I seen that a car was following me, Frazier told Mississippi News Now. They commenced to run me down in my car, Frazier continued, Kendrick Jackson and Lakia Bradley, they knew my kids were in the car. They did not care. And they chased me down. I ducked off on a street. I guess the lights were out due to the storm. And thats when he shot into my car. And he hit my baby in the head.

14-YEAR-OLD TEXAS BOY SHOT TO DEATH BY TWIN AIMING FOR SNAKE

Frazier told the newspaper that Richard Kyles is my youngest, and hes the strongest. Because he has woke up. Hes asking for me, saying my name. God is Good.

Bradley drove the vehicle, a while Chevy Impala, investigators said. Jackson is the ex-boyfriend of Frazier and has allegedly been threatening her recently, according to MS News Now.

MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING 'BABY DOE' WON'T TESTIFY

Frazier said I dont understand what I did to neither one of them, but is certain it was supposed to be me. It was meant for me.

Kyles is in the hospital right now. The family is praying for strength and healing for their youngest, who they call Man-Man.
A hug for a house -- that's all one Excelsior Springs man wants in exchange for hand-built dollhouses.

"There ain't no amount of money in the world that can buy that," dollhouse builder Earl Hurshman explains.

Hurshman started creating doll houses inside his Excelsior Springs home after his wife passed away in 2011.

While visiting her grave, Hurshman suddenly knew what he wanted to do next.

"It hit me right then: build doll houses for needy children. I went straight from the cemetery to Hobby Lobby and bought my first kit."

Over the years, Hurshman has given over $50,000 worth of dollhouses to families. He uses almost all of his social security payments to pay for the dollhouse supplies.

Now he's also donating his personal belongings to help those in need.

Hurshman recently surprised an Army Veteran by giving her his old car.

"He's very, very special."

Read more from FOX 4 Kansas City.
 Flash

The number of people killed in the forest fires raging in central Portugal has risen to 62, with 54 others injured, State Secretary of Internal Affairs Ministry Jorge Gomes said Sunday.

Gomes told reporters that among the dead, two of them are victims of a road accident, while four of the injured are in serious condition.

The Portuguese government has declared the state of emergency in the fire area, and also a three-day national mourning from Sunday and Tuesday.

The fires broke out Saturday in Pedrogao Grande, some 150 km northeast of Lisbon, and quickly spread to the towns of Figueird dos Vinhos and Castanheira de Pera in the district of Leiria, where firefighters are still battling the fire.
POLICE TREATING LONDON VAN INCIDENT AS TERROR ATTACK

Authorities in London were treating an incident that left one person dead and 10 others injured outside a mosque Monday as a terror attack. Metropolitan police said a 48-year-old white male was arrested in the collision with pedestrians outside the Muslim Welfare House. The man was taken to a local hospital for a mental health evaluation. The incident occurred outside the mosque shortly after midnight after Ramadan prayers. Police said all of the injured were members of the Muslim community. Muslim leaders decried the collision as a hate crime and asked the public to stay calm. Police said eight of the injured were taken to three area hospitals and two suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

COPS: DRIVER OF VAN THAT HIT PEDESTRIANS IS 48-YEAR-OLD MAN

AUTHORITIES SEARCH FOR CLUES IN LONDON VAN ATTACK

AT LEAST ONE DEAD AFTER VAN STRIKES CROWD IN LONDON

WITNESSES DESCRIBE SCENE OF LONDON VAN ATTACK

Witnesses outside a London mosque, where a van mowed down worshippers killing one and injuring 10 others, described the scene to reporters early Monday. Mohammed Abdullah, a delivery driver, was on a bike about three cars behind the incident in Finsbury Park when he saw the white van make a sharp left turn. "I think he done it on purpose. I was on a ped. He was about three cars in front of me. He came in a bus lane and took a sharp left, Abdullah told Sky News. He went on top of the people. He actually ran them over. It was a white van.

WITNESS DESCRIBES DEADLY VEHICLE IN ATTACK

DR. JASSER ON TIMING OF COLLISION IN LONDON

US NAVY IDENTIFIES SAILORS PULLED FROM USS FIZGERALD

The U.S. Navy identified Sunday seven sailors who were lost aboard the USS Fitzgerald after a Japanese merchant vessel struck the warship miles off the Japanese coast. (CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NAMES)

MOTHER: SON TRIED TO SAVE NAVY SHIPMATES AFTER COLLISION

US NAVY SHOOTS DOWN SYRIAN WARPLANE

A U.S. Navy fighter jet shot down a Syrian government warplane after it attacked Washington-backed fighters near ISIS' de facto capital of Raqqa, the U.S.-led coalition said Sunday. In a statement, the coalition headquarters in Iraq said that a F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 that had dropped bombs near positions held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The statement said coalition aircraft had "conducted a show of force" to turn back an attack by Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad's forces on the SDF in the town of Ja'Din, south of Tabqah.

IRAN LAUNCHES STRIKES AGAINST ISIS IN SYRIA IN RESPONSE TO TEHRAN TERROR ATTACK

TRUMP LAWYER SEKULOW: PRESIDENT HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF BEING INVESTIGATED

Jay Sekulow, a member of President Trumps legal team, said Sunday he has no knowledge of the president being the target of a federal probe, following Trump's recent statement suggesting that he is being investigated. The president has not been notified by anyone that he is under investigation, Sekulow told Fox News Sunday, in a heated exchange with host Chris Wallace about whether Trump could be under investigation without knowing.

SEKULOW ON REPORTS TRUMP INVESTIGATION WIDENED

MEGYN KELLY FACES OFF WITH ALEX JONES

COMING UP ON FNC

11:30 a.m. ET: President Trump and the first lady welcome Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife to the White House. Watch on FoxNews.com.

11:30 a.m. ET: Gen. Joseph Dunford, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks at a National Press Club Luncheon. Watch on FoxNews.com.

FOX BUSINESS COVERAGE

Amazon, Apple CEOs among Trump's tech guests for White House meeting Monday (Click here for more)

Wall Street week ahead: Tech to see bump in growth weighting in Russell rejig (Click here for more)

COMING UP ON FBN

7:30 a.m. ET: Kellyanne Conway, adviser to the president, joins Mornings with Maria.
A gunman shot and wounded six people near the beach in Myrtle Beach, S.C., in a shooting captured live on Facebook, police said Monday.

WARNING: VIDEO IS GRAPHIC AND MAY CONTAIN PROFANITY

Myrtle Beach police Lt. Joey Crosby says the shooting was reported about 12:30 a.m. Sunday as a group of people were blocking traffic on Ocean Boulevard.

None of the injuries in the shooting are thought to be life-threatening, Crosby told FoxNews.com.

He said a security guard who saw the shooting shot and wounded the gunman. The security officer was grazed by a bullet but was treated at the scene, the lieutenant said.

Police say a fight started and someone pulled a gun and began firing.

WOMAN ABANDONED CHILD AT KENTUCKY HOTEL, POLICE SAY

The video shows a man in a white T-shirt aiming a gun at a large crowd of people who start to run. The video recorded about 16 shots.

Multiple people down, says the man narrating the video, shot from a balcony. Were at 4th Avenue North. Stay away.

The gunman carjacked a vehicle but was caught a short time later. Crosby says the man's name will be released when charges are filed against him.

CALIFORNIA MACHETE ATTACK: SUSPECT YELLED RACIAL SLURS, POLICE SAY

None of the injuries in the shooting was thought to be life-threatening.

Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes said shooting is damaging to the citys desired reputation as a family friendly destination, the Myrtle Beach Sun News reported.

Social media today puts this word out quickly, Rhodes said. It does not look good for the city of Myrtle Beach.

The paper reported the video has been seen more than 1 million times.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
An 11-year-old girl in New Jersey was electrocuted while swimming in a lagoon on Saturday, and police are investigating how it could have happened.

Two adults reportedly were watching Kayla Matos and her friends swimming and using an inflatable raft. Two of the girls touched the rail to a metal boat lift that sent an electric current through their equipment, which caused the fatal injury, WCBS reported.

NEW JERSEY STUDENT FOUND DEAD 7 DAYS AFTER ENTERING DORM

Toms River police and EMS arrived and continued CPR, used a defibrillator and rushed the girl to Community Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead, the Daily News reported.

Police said the other two girls were evaluated and not injured.

TODDLER ELECTROCUTED AT KANSAS CARNIVAL

Some neighbors arent surprised and are guessing what may have caused the incident. A lot of wires are hanging since (Superstorm) Sandy, Annemarie Brooksbank, a neighbor, said, and some people dont think about what they need to repair.

A GoFundMe page was created in Matos' honor and has raised over $3,000 of its $10,000 goal.

The incident is still under investigation by Toms River Police Department, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office, and the Ocean County Sheriffs Department.
The New Mexico State Police rescued 14 hostages, including a three year old, from a pistachio farm in southern New Mexico Sunday afternoon.

State Police identified the suspect as Caleb Scroggins, 21 from Alamogordo, NM.

Police said they were looking for Scroggins because he was a suspect in a shooting earlier in the day. During a search, police found Scroggins vehicle and a chase began. While traveling west, Scroggins failed to yield to northbound traffic on a highway and was t-boned. Scroggins got out of the car, exchanged fire with police, ran into McGinns Pistachio Farm store and took 14 hostages.

Law enforcement from multiple New Mexico agencies arrived. During negotiations, the State Police Tactical Response Team secured the perimeter. The tactical team rescued all the hostages and Scroggins surrendered peacefully shortly after.

Police believe Scroggins may have been armed when he took the hostages, but he was not armed when he surrendered.

The Sheriffs office worked very swiftly to talk the suspect out. He gave himself up. Didnt have a weapon on him at the time but were going to go through the scene and see whats in there, said New Mexico State Police Chief Pete Kassetas.

None of the hostages were injured, but they were evaluated at the hospital. Scroggins was treated for injuries from the car crash during the police chase.

Scroggins has a long criminal history. Past charges include battery of a household member, concealing identity, breaking and entering, possession of a controlled suspect and resisting, evading or obstructing an officer.

Charges against Scroggins for Sundays incidents are pending.
A large swath of the Northeast is bracing for damaging rains, wind gusts and hail Monday as a massive storm system is moving up the coast.

The National Weather Service as of Monday afternoon issued severe thunderstorm and flash flood watches and warnings for dozens of counties in 13 states: North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.

Hail the size of ping pong balls and wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour were possible in parts of Connecticut, New Jersey and New York, Fox 5 reported.

The watches and warnings run until 8 p.m. ET in most areas.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the country, the Southwest is getting ready to feel the wrath of a punishing heat wave includes a forecast of 120 degrees in Phoenix  a temperature not seen in the desert city in more than 20 years, The Associated Press reported.

The broiling temperatures will also be felt in Las Vegas and Southern California, creating a public health hazard. Rising temps are being closely watched by everyone from airline pilots and emergency room doctors to power grid managers and mountain cities unaccustomed to heat waves.

Even cities accustomed to dealing with 110-degree days are grappling with the new problems that arise from 120 degrees.

Wunderground Weather Historian Christopher C. Burt said Phoenix temperatures rose to 120 degrees and above only three times in recorded history  twice in 1990 and once in 1995.

Burt said the city has hit 118 degrees 11 times, most recently last summer.

It could be worse: Death Valley could see 124 degrees on Tuesday.

When the temperature soars, it's harder for airplanes to take off.

American Airlines pilot Shane Coffey said extreme heat creates changes in the air density that make it harder for airplanes to take off, meaning pilots have to use more thrust or impose weight restrictions such as flying with less cargo.

Air density on a 90-degree day in Denver at more than 5,000 feet elevation is similar to a 120-degree day in Phoenix at 1,100 feet above sea level, he said.

In 1990, amid a similar heat wave, flights were cancelled at the Phoenix airport because there was too much uncertainty about how the heat would affect aviation performance. Now, airlines have a better understanding, but the heat is still a concern  primarily for smaller, regional jets.

Airlines will be closely monitoring the heat this week and some flights could be affected.

American Airlines said Monday that it will allow Phoenix passengers flying during the peak heat Monday through Wednesday to change flights without a fee.

Dr. Moneesh Bhow, medical director for Banner University Medical Center Emergency department, said the body's internal cooling mechanisms are ineffective when temps reach above 110 degrees.

One of the ways the body cools itself is by radiating heat through the skin into the air, but that system reverses when external temperatures climb to 110 or higher.

"When that happens we have to rely on our second mechanism, which is sweating," Bhow said. Sweat makes your skin feel cooler and some heat is removed as it evaporates.

He noted staying hydrated is crucial to perspiring and staying cool.

The state Department of Health Services says nearly 2,000 people visit Arizona emergency rooms every year because of heat-related illnesses.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


A Vietnam veteran's young daughter is being hailed a hero for saving her dad from a house fire.

"He has no sense of smell and he doesn't hear [well] so if his daughter had not been in the house with him he probably would have perished," said neighbor Jean Ann Smith.

Gary Myers, 71, says he lived at the Irma Drive home along the Green and Uniontown border for nearly 31 years. Fox 8 spoke with him Saturday after he says he was discharged from a two-day hospital stay for smoke inhalation. His seven-year-old daughter Grace first alerted him of the smoke.

"She [Grace] said, 'Yea, it stinks bad in there,' so I go and check it out see what I can find and I saw a little smoke," said Myers. "I walked on back into the family room and opened the door there and there was a ball of flames."

Myers says the fast-moving fire killed several cats, destroyed his home, car and motorcycle beyond repair. A cause of the fire has not been determined.

"I'm alive, Grace is okay, and that makes all the difference in the world," said Myers. "We'll go on from here somehow we'll figure it out."

READ MORE FROM FOX 8 CLEVELAND.
A Georgia-based architect says the prominent architectural firm behind One World Trade Center ripped off a design he created as a graduate student in 1999.

Jeehoon Park sued architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in Manhattan federal court Wednesday for unspecified damages, saying the firm has unfairly taken credit for the lower Manhattan tower, the tallest in the Western Hemisphere, despite its striking similarity to a multi-sided glass structure he created while studying at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.

Park, who is now president at Qube Architecture LLC in Suwanee, Ga., said Skidmore, Owings & Merrill had access to his graduate thesis design through multiple channels, including his former graduate school adviser, who now works with SOM.

STUDENTS GET PROBATION FOR FALSE REPORT OF HATE CRIME

SOM did not immediately return a request for comment.

Click for more from The New York Post.
A 4-year-old boy whose mother is a Pennsylvania volunteer firefighter shot himself in the face and died, according to reports Monday.

Troopers in Monroe County haven't charged anyone in the death Sunday of Bentley Thomas Koch at a home in Chestnuthill Township.

His 21-year-old mother is a member of the Freemansburg Fire Company, Lehighvalleylive.com reported.

"I never thought I would see the day I would get the news my only son has passed away ... my poor baby," mom Lexie Antonini said on Facebook, according to the news website.

"I don't know how to feel, she said. I don't know what to do. I lost my everything. I want to thank everyone for being here at this time. ... Baby boy, this isn't goodbye. I will see you soon I promise."

MOM ABANDONED CHILD IN HOTEL CONFERENCE ROOM, POLICE SAY

The district attorney also is investigating.

"Today one of our firefighters lost a child, and all of us here are at a loss, the Freemansburg Fire Company said on Facebook. "Bentley was a light like no other around our station, always making people smile, he will forever be one of our 12 boys.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Police and animal welfare workers in New Hampshire say they've seized 84 neglected Great Danes, most of them from an eight-bedroom mansion that had floors covered with feces.

"There was just feces everywhere," Lindsay Hamrick, New Hampshire state director of The Humane Society of the United States, said Monday. "The dogs were sliding on it. We were sliding on it."

Hamrick's organization brought in two veterinarians to examine the dogs and puppies. She said many of the animals have eye problems, skin conditions and viral infections that are contagious to other dogs. An emergency shelter was set up. Hamrick said the dogs can't go to foster homes or be adopted during the criminal proceedings because they are considered evidence.

The homeowner, Christina Fay, was charged Friday with two counts of animal cruelty. Police say she ran a business from the home called De La Sang Monde Great Danes.

A message at the business phone number said the voice mailbox was full and an email came back as undeliverable. A Facebook message wasn't immediately returned. It wasn't immediately known if Fay, who is scheduled to appear in court Aug. 2, had a lawyer.

Police said the case isn't just about a few dogs being neglected but "about reckless conduct, abhorrent behavior toward animals over profit, and scofflaw attitude about business practices."

Wolfeboro, a town of about 6,300 residents in New Hampshire's scenic Lakes Region, has a number of summer vacation homes, including one belonging to former Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney. Assessment records show that Fay's house, built in 2004, is valued at $1.45 million.

Hamrick said she was struck by the juxtaposition of showing up at a mansion and finding such a mess. She said the smell of ammonia in the house was overpowering.

"You'd never know by looking at her website or the outside of the house," she said. "It was just heartbreaking."
 Flash

French President Emmanuel Macron's the Republic on the Move (LREM) party on Sunday won a huge majority in the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament in a second and final round of legislative competition.

French President Emmanuel Macron poses for photo with his supporters after he voted at the city hall in the second round of the parliamentary elections in Le Touquet, France on June 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Kristina Afanasyeva)

The election result cleared the way for the France's youngest top official to control the country's political power over the five-year term, partial exit poll showed.

"French voters have in their vast majority preferred hope to anger, optimism to pessimism, confidence to withdrawal," said Ediuard Philippe, Prime Minister.

"A year ago, no one would have imagined political renewal like this. We owe it to the drive of the president of the republic to give new life to democracy. We owe it, too, to the French people, who wanted to give the national representation a new face," he added.

Based on partial vote count made by Kantar Sofres-onepoint pollster, the LREM alone won 315 seats, more than 289 seats needed for a majority in the 577-member National Assembly.

With its allies from MoDem centrist party, it is represented by 360 lawmakers, sparing the need to rely on other movements to pass legislation on labor codes, cut public expenditure by billions of euros, raise taxes on consumption and wealthy pensioners and invest more in training and innovative sectors.

On the right, the conservatives won 133 seats, making it the biggest opposition party. However, the Republicans would not pose any threat to Macron's governance.

In a punishment vote due to poor achievements, the outgoing ruling the Socialist Party, lost its lead with only 32 seats.

"Tonight, the collapse of the Socialist Party is undeniable, the president of the Republic has all the powers," Jean-Christophe Cambadelis said after announcing he would step down as party chief.

Winning her first seat, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Front, made her entry for the first time to the National Assembly after gaining the race in Pas-de-Calais constituency.

Compared to 2012 election, the anti-immigration party improved its performance after snatching 6 seats compared to two currently, to represent "the only force of resistance to the dilution of France, its social model and identity," according to Le Pen.

Exit polls showed hard-left "France Unbowed" to secure 17 seats, paving the way for the party to form an "offensive" parliamentary group "that will call when the time comes, to a social resistance," his leader Jean-Luc Melenchon said.

With a huge majority for his one-year-old party, the 39-year-old president dealt a fresh blow to the traditional major parties, by redrawing the lower house of parliament with the help by unprecedented profiles of novice faces, half of them had never held an elected office.

However a projected historic low turnout likely to cloud Macron's triumph to have free hand to put on the ground his recipe for the eurozone second main powerhouse.

According to opinion polls, abstention which swung between 15 percent and 30 percent over the four past decades, would be over 50 percent on Sunday runoff, a further sign for Macron that his stay at the Elysee Palace won't be totally rosy.

To Christophe Castaner, the government spokesperson, the French disinterest "is as an additional responsibility and it will allow Emmanuel Macron, Edouard Philippe to never forget that deep down there is no victory tonight and the real victory will be in five years when things will really have changed."

"Voters ... did not want to give a blank check (to Macron camp)," he added.
Prosecutors and the defense have rested their cases in the murder trial of a man accused of killing a 2-year-old girl who became known as Baby Doe after her body washed up on a Boston Harbor beach.

Michael McCarthy didn't take the stand in his own defense Monday. Closing arguments are scheduled for Tuesday.

McCarthy is charged with killing Bella Bond. The girl's mother says McCarthy punched Bella in the abdomen repeatedly until she died in 2015.

McCarthy's lawyer says the mother killed the girl.

A composite image of Bella was shared by millions of people on social media after her body was found in June 2015 as authorities tried to ascertain her identity.

Jurors on Thursday heard McCarthy's recorded interview with police in which he denies killing Bella.
A Southern California teen raised about $15,000 to send an 89-year-old Holocaust survivor to Israel so the man can meet his last living relative and finally receive his bar mitzvah, according to a newspaper report Monday.

Drew Principe, 17, said he came up with the idea for a fundraiser after meeting Henry Oster during a school assembly in January.

Oster told students at Viewpoint High near Los Angeles about his experiences during World War II.

In 1941 he and his family were deported by Nazis from their home in Cologne, Germany, a few weeks before he was supposed to celebrate his bar mitzvah, a Jewish coming-of-age ceremony generally held at 13. They were taken to a ghetto in Poland before he was taken to the Auschwitz concentration camp. He was sent to a few different camps before being liberated at 17 and eventually moving to Los Angeles to become an optometrist.

Principe discovered that Oster had never been to Israel, so the teen decided on the spot to give the man a bracelet he had bought on a trip to the Holy Land a few years ago. The bracelet has the Shema, a Jewish prayer, inscribed on it.

"It really is a gesture that cannot be measured," Oster told the Ventura County Star about the gift . "I don't wear jewelry, but I have not taken this off except for the shower."

Principe and Oster began a "life-changing" friendship, the teen told the newspaper.

An online fundraiser took off and quickly raised close to $15,000.

Oster and his wife along with Principe and his family left on Monday for Israel, where Oster will meet his cousin and be formally recognized by the Israeli Holocaust memorial as a survivor.

He will also celebrate the bar mitzvah he never had.

Ultimately, Oster said, he decided to accept the offer and have the ceremony in memory of those who died and will never have the chance to experience the ceremony.

"I decided to honor my father and my parents and ... the desecrated Torah and all the victims who never had a chance," Oster said.

___

Information from: Ventura County Star, http://venturacountystar.com
Two deputies were shot at a county courthouse in Tennessee after an inmate grabbed a gun during a hearing Monday, officials said.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said on Twitter that two Coffee County deputies were injured in the shooting at the Coffee County Courthouse in Manchester and are undergoing medical treatment.

Lucky Knott, a spokesman for the Coffee County Sheriff's Office, told the Associated Press an inmate who was in the courthouse for a scheduled hearing grabbed a deputy's gun and fired. Knott said one deputy was shot in the stomach.

A second deputy was wounded in the hand, but it's not clear if he was shot or injured in a struggle with the inmate, according to Knott.

Knott said the inmate fled the courthouse, and then he suffered a gunshot wound. Knott told the AP the suspect may have shot himself. The TBI later said the suspect involved in the shooting has died.

Both deputies were airlifted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, according to FOX 17 Nashville. Officials did not release their exact condition.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said the deputies are with the Coffee County Sheriff's Office.

The county courthouse is located in Manchester, about 65 miles southeast of Nashville.

Read more from FOX 17 Nashville.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
East Texas cowboys are seen in a video roping a monster-size alligator threatening livestock.

Cattle rancher Hal Canover rounded up a group of friends when the 10-foot creature wandered onto his land in Hawkins last week, Fox 4 Dallas reports.

He was a dangerous one, Conover said. But he was leaving the place  dead or alive.

Canover and his buddies lassoed the beast and then waited for help.

Licensed alligator trappers showed up to haul it away.

MAN GETS $100M CHARGE ON WATER BILL

The alligator wasnt willing to go easy.

During the struggle to get the alligator into a trailer one of the trappers was bitten.

WALLENDA DAREDEVIL DANGLES OVER NIAGARA FALLS BY HER MOUTH

Conover said the mans injury was only a flesh wound.

The alligator was driven Gator Farms in Grand Saline, according to the station.
A Houston woman was arrested in the stabbing death of her young daughter after texting her boyfriend to say the girl was dead and in heaven, according to reports Monday.

Deputies say 4-year-old Fredricka Allen had been stabbed multiple times in the chest. She was found dead Sunday. Laquita Lewis, 34, appeared in court Monday on a capital murder charge in the girl's death. She is being held without bail.

It's a very horrific type scene, senior Harris County Deputy Sheriff Thomas Gilliland told Fox 26 Houston. Its a 4-year-old child. Anytime you have the murder of a child its very terrible.

After the stabbing Lewis bolted from the apartment and got into a crash on I-10, deputies said.

At the hospital she texted her boyfriend and an aunt.

Prosecutors said she told them she killed Fredricka, the Houston Chronicle reported.

DAD STOPS SHOOTER IN RESTAURANT DURING FATHER'S DAY DINNER

"The defendant told the father that their daughter was no longer alive and was in heaven," the paper quoted prosecutors as saying in court. "She told the father she stabbed the (victim) in the chest with a knife."

The boyfriend called 911. Deputies then went to the apartment.

FIGHT OVER DRINK ORDER TRIGGERED STABBING AT STARBUCKS, WITNESSES SAY

Gilliland told the paper it wasnt clear why Lewis would want to kill her daughter. He said she had gotten into a fight with the boyfriend earlier Sunday.

The Chronicle reported that Lewis had been accused of threatening to kill a man she divorced in 2012. She pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and was sentenced to probation which she was still serving.

Click to read more from Fox 26 Houston.
Police in Virginia charged a 22-year-old man with killing a teenage girl who was reported missing after she and her friends left a mosque early Sunday.

Fairfax County police charged Darwin Martinez Torres with murder after they found what they believe is the 17-year-old girl's body in a pond Sunday afternoon.

Police spokeswoman Tawny Wright said the girl had been walking with friends when she got into a dispute with a man in a car early Sunday. The man assaulted her and she became separated from her friends. The girl's name was not immediately released.

Police said they arrested Torres after a search.

The teenager had been participating in at a sleepover at a religious institution that authorities did not identify. But the All Dulles Area Muslim Society confirmed in a news release that the teens were affiliated with the mosque.

"We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event," the society said in the news release. "It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth." It said the society was enlisting licensed counselors to assist anyone in need.

Police said they looked into whether the murder was a hate crime but said they found no evidence it was.
President Donald Trump has yet to condemn an attack on Muslim worshippers in London, the latest instance in which he has appeared slower to speak out about violence when Muslims are the victims.

Unlike with other recent attacks targeting civilians, there were no early-morning tweets voicing sympathy for the victims or vowing a renewed fight against violent ideologies. The first White House voice to acknowledge the late Sunday attack was Trump's daughter, Ivanka, who tweeted that she was "sending love and prayers." She added: "We must stand united against hatred and extremism in all its ugly forms."

As president, Trump has taken steps to protect Muslims from violence, including cruise missile strikes against Syria's military after blaming it for a chemical attack that killed dozens of civilians.

Still, Muslim advocacy groups say they see a stark difference in the haste with which Trump responds when Muslims are the perpetrators of attacks, and not the targets. They see the discrepancy as part of a pattern, given Trump's harsh campaign rhetoric about Islam and attempts to temporarily ban immigrants from a handful of Muslim-majority countries.

"It's like pulling teeth to get President Trump to respond to terror attacks on Muslims," said Ibrahim Hooper of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "His silence or his delay really sends a negative message to the American Muslim community that their lives and their safety are not as important as the lives and safety of other citizens."

Scrutiny of Trump's responses comes amid growing concern about a rise in hate crimes against Muslims in countries that have experienced Islamist-linked attacks. In the latest incident, at least nine were injured in Britain late Sunday when a man plowed his vehicle into a crowd outside a mosque. Police there are treating it as a terror attack.

For the United Kingdom, it was only the most recent bout of violence, following three previous attacks in as many months. After two of those incidents  a March attack near Parliament and a June attack on London Bridge  Trump was quick to express solidarity and call for a strong response.

Both attacks were claimed by the Islamic State group, and Trump later drew dismay from British leaders when he repeatedly disparaged London Mayor Sadiq Khan, a Muslim, for his response to the attack.

Trump was visiting the West Bank in May at the time of another attack claimed by IS: a suicide bombing at a concert in Manchester. He quickly condemned the perpetrators as "evil losers" who had murdered "young, beautiful, innocent people, living and enjoying their lives."

Other U.S. officials and agencies have more consistently condemned violent attacks  regardless of the circumstances. On Monday, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said the U.S. "strongly condemns last night's attack that appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers in London," while White House press secretary Sean Spicer told reporters that Trump was being updated by his staff.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families, and we've made it very clear to our British allies that we stand ready to provide any support or assistance," Spicer said.

In the president's defense, Trump's supporters note that after Syrian leader Bashar Assad's forces were accused of using chemical weapons against Syrians, Trump intervened with unprecedented U.S. strikes to try to stop it from happening again. Under similar circumstance in 2013, President Barack Obama declined to take such a step to protect Muslim lives.

The White House didn't respond to requests for comment Monday. But Kellyanne Conway, a senior White House adviser, suggested earlier this year it might be a bandwidth issue, noting that Trump "doesn't tweet about everything."

"I know he's sympathetic to any loss of life. It's completely senseless, and it needs to stop, regardless of who is lodging the attack," Conway told CNN in February.

In some cases, Trump has voiced support for Muslim victims of attacks days later, or with unusual caveats.

When two men were killed last month in Portland, Oregon, defending two young women who appeared to be Muslim from an anti-Islam tirade, Trump waited three days before calling the attacks "unacceptable" and praising the men who stood up "to hate and intolerance." He also waited to express condolences to Canada after an attack on a Quebec City mosque.

And when an IS attack this month struck the capital of Iran, a Shiite Muslim country that Trump's administration sees as a top U.S. foe, the White House said the U.S. grieves for the victims "and for the Iranian people." But the two-sentence statement then assigned some of the blame to Iran, saying countries "that sponsor terrorism risk falling victim to the evil they promote."

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Reach Josh Lederman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joshledermanAP
The man suspected of mowing down a crowd exiting Ramadan prayers at a London mosque early Monday has been identified as 47-year-old Darren Osborne of Cardiff, Wales, sources told Sky News.

At least one person was killed and 10 others were injured in the assault, which authorities were treating as a terrorist attack.

Osborne, reportedly a father of four, was arrested on suspicion of terror offenses in the collision with pedestrians outside the Muslim Welfare House, Metropolitan Police said. People at the scene shouted at him: "Why did you do that? Why?"

"This man was not known to authorities in the space of extremism or far-right extremism," Ben Wallace, Britain's minister for security, told Sky News.

The incident occurred outside the Finsbury Park Mosque shortly after midnight after Ramadan prayers. Police said all of the injured were members of the Muslim community. Muslim leaders decried the collision as a hate crime and asked the public to stay calm.

Police said eight of the injured were taken to three hospitals and two suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Witnesses reported seeing at least one person receiving chest compressions. Police said that person was the lone death in the incident, but it was unclear if it was the van that caused the death.

Prime Minister Theresa May described the attack as a "sickening" attempt to destroy liberties that unite Britain, such as freedom of worship. She added that the man acted alone. May said earlier she would chair an emergency security Cabinet session later Monday and that her thoughts were with the injured, their loved ones and emergency officials who responded to the incident.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to the attack and said the Secretary of Homeland Security, John Francis Kelly, has been briefed.

DHS stands with our European allies in fighting back against all forms of terrorism, and we will continue to work together to keep our communities safe against violent extremists who target any of our people, a statement by the DHS said.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all affected by these violent and reprehensible attacks.

A leader of the Muslim Council of Britain called for extra security at mosques in light of the apparent attack. The group's general secretary, Harun Khan, described the incident as a hate crime against Muslims.

"During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship," he said. "It appears from eyewitness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, the first Muslim to serve in that position, said extra police would be deployed. He called the incident a "horrific terrorist attack."

Khan also called on Britain's government to supply more funding and resources to the city's police force.

"My message to the Government is - we need to get the right of level of funding for a capital city," Khan said in a news conference.

Video filmed in the immediate aftermath showed a Caucasian man being detained by police.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, who reportedly stopped the suspect from being harmed by a group of angry people, said he and others did their best to calm tensions.

"We extinguished flames of anger or mob rule that would have taken charge," Mahmoud said.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque said the van crash that hit worshippers was a "cowardly attack" and urged Muslims going to mosques to be vigilant.

Mohammed Kozbar said the Muslim community is "in shock." He complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

London police closed the area to normal traffic. A helicopter circled above the area as a large cordon was established to keep motorists and pedestrians away.

Witnesses told British media that the van seemed to have veered off the road and hit people intentionally. They also said two men jumped out of the van and fled the scene, but police said the suspect was only one man and the investigation is still ongoing.

Mohammed Shafiq of the Ramadhan Foundation, a Muslim organization, said that based on eyewitness reports, it seems to be a "deliberate attack against innocent Muslims."

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said in a tweet he was shocked by the incident.

Britain's terrorist alert has been set at "severe," meaning an attack is highly likely.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
EXCLUSIVE: Since 2003, more than 4,500 American military personnel have died fighting in Iraq. But in the war-embattled country itself, more than 180,000 civilians are documented to have died from Jan. 1, 2003, through 2016 as a direct result of the ongoing fighting.

According to a report to be released Tuesday by LiveStories and based on data gathered and distributed by Iraq Body Count (IBC), the most Iraqi deaths, on a monthly basis, occurred in March and April of 2003, the first two months of President George W. Bushs Operation Iraqi Freedom and the shock and awe campaign to dismantle the Saddam Hussein regime. During those two months there were an estimated 7,186 civilian deaths, or some 43 percent of all civilian deaths directly caused by the U.S. or its coalition partners.

However, the most lethal 12-month period for Iraqis was during calendar 2006, when some 30,000 civilians were killed. This deadliest year for civilians on record was caused not by a particular group or the U.S. military and its coalition partners but in Sunni vs. Shia clashes. Mosques were routinely bombed and executions became commonplace.

AL QAEDA IN AFGHANISTAN: HOW TERROR GROUP SURVIVES, THRIVES

This was the most surprising finding  the scale of sectarian violence between 2006 and 2007. Those were the deadliest for Iraqi civilians by far, Adnan Mahmud, founder of LiveStories, told Fox News. We knew it was bad, but it was shocking to see the numbers put into perspective.

The stunningly high number of deaths in 2006 was followed by a U.S.-led troop surge that resulted in relative calm over the ensuing years. By comparison, the years prior  2004 and 2005 saw 12,000 and 16,000 civilian deaths, respectively. In 2008 and 2009 civilian deaths numbered 10,500 and 5,000, respectively.

The legacy of violence from 2006-2007 continues to haunt Iraq today, the report states. The conflict between the Shiite-led Iraqi government and ISIS  a Sunni extremist group that has targeted Shiites for genocide  is in some ways a continuation of the sectarian violence of 2006 and 2007.

The report notes that of all the known actors operating in Iraq, ISIS has killed more civilians than any other labeled party  but the identities of most of the executioners are not known. It also asserts that June 2014  the month that ISIS suddenly swarmed in and overtook the countrys second-largest city of Mosul  marked the deadliest single month for Iraqi civilians, with over 4,000 civilians slaughtered.

ACCUSED TALIBAN AND ISIS FIGHTERS REVEAL INSIDE TACTICS, PERSONAL HISTORIES

The deadliest single months in the data were periods of rapid territorial takeover: the American-led coalitions shock and awe campaign in March/April 2003, which took control of the country, and ISIS' lightning advance through northern Iraq in the summer of 2014, Mahmud added.

The report is based on data from the IBC which has been tracking civilian deaths in the war-torn country since the U.S-led invasion in 2003. The IBC only uses documented deaths, rather than figures extrapolated from surveys or estimates.

However, as something of a silver lining amid all the bloodshed, Mahmud stressed that the current American and Iraqi strategy against ISIS appears to be working without directly causing civilian casualties on the same scale as the 2003 invasion.

ISIS is slowly but surely being defeated; it has lost control of every major Iraqi city except Mosul and its stronghold there shrinks more and more each month, he added. While many civilians have died, so far, the U.S and Iraqi governments have managed to avoid collateral damage on the same scale as the shock and awe campaign.
A rubber dinghy packed with refugees sank after it took on water off Libya -- and of the estimated 130 people on board, 126 died, the U.N. migration agency reported Monday.

The Sudanese and Nigerian survivors recounted how their 126 fellow migrants drowned. They said a few hours after the dinghy set off from Libyan shores Thursday night, the crew removed the engine and left in another vessel, leaving their boat to founder.

A passing Libyan fishing vessel rescued the four survivors and put them on another boat of smuggled migrants, which was later rescued and its passengers transferred to an Italian coast guard vessel.

The survivors were "very shocked, very confused," when Italian Coast Guard members spoke with them in Sicily, Flavio Di Giacomo of the International Organization for Migration said.

"Every so often it happens, survivors from one migrant boat are put onto another," Di Giacomo told the AP by phone. He said authorities didn't realize when the migrants were brought ashore that the four had been mixed in with the survivors from another boat.

U.N. APPROVES EUROPEAN UNION SHIPS TO SEIZE ILLEGAL ARMS OFF LIBYA

The coast guard ship brought a total of nearly 1,100 rescued migrants -- saved in various separate operations in the central Mediterranean in the past few days -- to Sicily, where they will have medical checks and be interviewed as part of the process to eventually seek asylum.

Over the past few years, hundreds of thousands of migrants, fleeing conflict, poverty or persecution, have been rescued at sea from unseaworthy smugglers' vessels that set off from Libya, and brought to Italian shores.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The latest developments relating to the Brexit negotiations kicking off in Brussels on Monday. All times local.

9.15 a.m.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said Monday he still thinks that the Brexit negotiations will yield "a happy resolution that can be done with profit and honor for both sides."

The negotiations kick off in Brussels on Monday with Britain under pressure for stalling the talks and entering the negotiations without a working parliamentary majority fully in place.

Still, Johnson called on people to look at the more distant future. At a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg he said: "The most important thing for us is to look to the horizon, raise our eyes to the horizon. In the long run, this will be good for the U.K. and good for the rest of Europe."

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8.45 a.m.

A senior German official is stressing that the EU doesn't want to punish Britain for leaving, but says its departure will not be good for the U.K. or the rest of the EU.

Germany's deputy foreign minister, Michael Roth, told RBB Inforadio that "we must of course protect our interests as the EU 27 but naturally we also don't want to punish Britain."

Roth said that "Brexit is a very, very difficult operation" and there's only a bit over a year to negotiate it. He added: "Brexit won't make anything better, but it will make a lot of things more difficult. And we want to try to solve the difficult things as well as possible."
Pakistani police say gunmen have ambushed a navy vehicle, killing two navy men and wounding three others in the southwestern coastal town of Jiwani.

Police official Abdul Hakim says the attackers opened fire on the vehicle late Monday before fleeing the scene.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif condemned the attack in Baluchistan province. The province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, is home to a low-level separatist insurgency and has also seen attacks by Islamic extremists.

No one immediately claimed Monday's attack.
UK and EU negotiators have begun historic talks on Britain leaving the bloc - with both sides seeking to strike a positive tone.

Speaking in Brussels, Brexit Minister David Davis said London wanted a "new, deep and special partnership" in the interest of Britons and all Europeans.

"There is more that unites us than divides us," he said, adding that Britain was looking for a "positive and constructive tone" in the talks.

"So while there will undoubtedly be challenging times ahead of us in the negotiations we will do all that we can to ensure we deliver a deal that works in the best interests of all of our citizens," he added.

The EU's chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, said he hoped they could agree a format and timetable on Monday.

The former French minister said his priority was to clear up the uncertainties that the Brexit vote had created.

Click for more from Sky News.
Iran said its ballistic missile strike targeting ISIS in Syria also served as a warning to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States, with a former Revolutionary Guard chief writing on Twitter that The bigger slap is yet to come.

The launch, which hit Syria's eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night, appeared to be Iran's first missile attack abroad in over 15 years and its first in the Syrian civil war, in which it has provided crucial support to embattled President Bashar Assad.

It comes amid the worsening of a long-running feud between Shiite powerhouse Iran and Saudi Arabia, which supports Syrian rebels and has led recent efforts to isolate the Gulf nation of Qatar.

Separately, Fox News has learned more about the Iranian missiles fired into eastern Syria yesterday.

U.S. RESPONDS TO RUSSIAN THREAT AFTER SHOOT-DOWN OF SYRIAN JET

Two U.S. officials said Iran fired six ballistic missiles during the attack  one Fatah-110 and five IRSS-1 Zulfiqar missiles.

The Iranian missiles hit near a pair of cities in eastern Syria where officials said top ISIS leadership and its bureaucracy have fled to since leaving the terror groups so-called capital of Raqqa months ago.

The Iranian missiles were launched from Kermanshah in western Iran near the border with Iraq. The missiles flew over Iraq before striking eastern Syria.

SAILORS PULLED FROM USS FITZGERALD ARE IDENTIFIED

Iraqi lawmaker Abdul-Bari Zebari said his country agreed to the missile overflight after coordination with Iran, Russia and Syria.

The Guard described the missile strike as revenge for attacks on Tehran earlier this month that killed at least 18 people and wounded more than 50, the first such ISIS assault in the country.

But the missiles sent a message to more than just the extremists in Iraq and Syria, Gen. Ramazan Sharif of the Guard told state television in a telephone interview.

The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message, he said. Obviously and clearly, some reactionary countries of the region, especially Saudi Arabia, had announced that they are trying to bring insecurity into Iran.

Fox News Lucas Tomlinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Israel's national electric company on Monday cut back its already limited electricity shipments to the Gaza Strip, a step that is expected to worsen the power crunch plaguing the Hamas-controlled seaside territory.

The company confirmed the Israeli government instructed it to reduce supply to Gaza at the request of the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' government in the West Bank.

Abbas recently told Israel he would cut payments for Gaza's electricity. Hamas seized Gaza from Abbas' forces a decade ago, and the internationally recognized Palestinian leader is trying to step up pressure on the Islamic militant group to cede power.

With Gaza's small power plant out of commission, and Israel providing a fraction of what the territory needs, residents have been scraping by with about four hours of electricity a day.

Mohammed Thabet of the Gaza electricity distribution company said Gaza's roughly 2 million residents could expect to receive even less power.

"There is nothing ... that we can do," he said.

Thabet said Gaza was receiving 112 megawatts of power a day, down from the previous level of 120 megawatts daily Gaza needs about 400 megawatts to meet its daily needs.

Israel and Hamas are bitter enemies that have fought three wars over the past decade.

But Israel has continued to provide limited power to Gaza, paid for by the Palestinians, to prevent a humanitarian crisis on its doorstep and out of concern that more instability could lead to renewed fighting. Last week, Hamas warned of renewed violence against Israel if power is cut.

Israel has described Gaza's power crisis as an internal Palestinian issue, saying it is merely a supplier.

In a statement, the electric company confirmed it had begun to reduce supplies on Monday and said shipments would be scaled back gradually, "so that the electricity supply will match the financial commitment."

"The internal deliveries of electricity to consumers inside the Gaza Strip is not the responsibility of the electric company and is done by internal Palestinian authorities in the Gaza Strip," it said. Israel accuses Hamas of diverting Gaza's limited electricity for military use and worsening the hardship on its people.

Israel and Egypt have maintained a blockade on Gaza since the Hamas takeover in June 2007, restricting the movement of people and goods in and out of the territory. Israel says the restrictions are needed to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons.

Abbas has grown increasingly frustrated with repeated failures in reconciliation talks with Hamas and the group's refusal to cede control of Gaza. In recent months, he has stepped up financial pressure on Hamas.

In April, he reinstated taxes on fuel bound for Gaza's only power plant, making Hamas unable to afford it. As a result, the small station has stopped working. Gaza now receives its only electricity from Israel, and a small quantity from Egypt.

Abbas has also cut the salaries of tens of thousands of former employees in Gaza, hurting the territory's already poor economy.

Gaza authorities have warned of impending health and environmental crisis because of the power shortages. Each day, 120,000 cubic meters (31 million gallons) of untreated sewage are discharged into the Mediterranean Sea.

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This story has been corrected to show the figures provided reflect megawatts of electricity, not kilowatts.
North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un is reportedly so terrified of being targeted for assassination that he travels incognito inside the Hermit Kingdom, and theres growing evidence his paranoia may be well-founded.

The 33-year-old, third-generation ruler is extremely nervous about a clandestine plot to take him out, according to a key South Korean lawmaker who spoke to The Korea Herald. Rep. Lee Cheol-woo, chairman of the South Korean parliament's intelligence committee, made the claim based on reports from South Korea's intelligence agency.

Kim is engrossed with collecting information about the decapitation operation through his intelligence agencies, Lee said following a briefing last week.

Kim is engrossed with collecting information about the decapitation operation through his intelligence agencies.  Lee Cheol-woo, South Korean lawmaker

The rumored decapitation plan to target Kim and key deputies in the event fighting broke out on the peninsula first surfaced in late 2015, when the U.S. and South Korea signed Operation Plan 5015, a joint strategy for possible war scenarios with North Korea. According to the Brookings Institute, the plan "envisions limited warfare with an emphasis on preemptive strikes on strategic targets in North Korea and decapitation raids to exterminate North Korean leaders."

Something about the term decapitation seems to have gotten the attention of the gout-addled, unpredictable and violent dictator. According to Lee, Kims is so frightened that he now disguises his movements, travels primarily at dawn and in the cars of his henchmen. Public appearances and jaunts in his prized Mercedes Benz 600 have been curtailed.

North Koreas United Nations representative referenced the beheading operation in a sternly worded, 2016 letter to the bodys Security Council, suggesting that the joint military operations regularly conducted by the U.S. and South Korea constitute a grave threat to [North Korea] as well as international peace and security.

By January of this year, there were reports that South Korea was speeding up the creation of a specialized unit designed for this mission, initially slated to be ready by 2019.

During this year's Foal Eagle and Key Resolve exercises with South Korea, one of the largest annual military exercises in the world, members of U.S. Navy SEAL teams reportedly participated in decapitation drills with our South Korean counterparts for the first time. Naval officials denied reports that members of SEAL Team 6, the group that took out Usama Bin Laden, took part.

Shortly after those war games, however, the USS Michigan, a submarine that is sometimes used to move U.S. Special Forces, took a position just off of North Koreas coast.

While there are concerns that taking out North Koreas leader might not be enough, a White House review revealed earlier this year that the U.S. strategy on North Korea does include the possibility of regime change.

Kim has become a major problem regionally and for the U.S. as well. Pyongyang has repeatedly tested missiles potentially capable of delivering nuclear warheads and Kims threats against South Korea, Japan and the U.S. have grown increasingly bellicose. Last week, North Korea returned American college student Otto Warmbier after holding him for 17 months on a dubious charge. Doctors say Warmbier underwent devastating brain injuries while in North Korean custody and is now in an unresponsive state. Three other U.S. citizens remain locked up in the reclusive nations infamous gulags.

But while taking out Kim may be a possibility, experts say it would be much more complicated that the 2011 raid in Pakistan in which CIA operatives and SEALs took out Bin Laden.

"A U.S. special operations strike against Kim Jong Un in todays conditions would make the bin Laden raid look easy," said Mark Sauter, a former U.S. Army and special forces officer who operated in the Korean de-militarized zone during the Cold War and now blogs about the decades-long effort to defend South Korea at www.dmzwar.com.

The daring, night-time raid on the Abbottabad compound went off nearly flawlessly. But U.S. forces would face much more deadly opposition in an assault on the North Korean capital.

"Pyongyang is surrounded by antiaircraft weapons, and while the corpulent Kim presents a large and sluggish target, hes kept on the move, always surrounded by fanatical guards and often near or in complex underground compounds," Sauter said.

Despite those potential challenges, Sauter suggests the North Korean leader "does need to worry about strikes by precision-guided missiles and bunker-buster bombs in the early stages of a preemptive allied attack, and if a conflict continues, everything from (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to special operators will be on his tracks."
The Latest on the attack by Islamic extremists on a resort outside Mali's capital, Bamako. (all times local):

7:15 p.m.

An al-Qaida-linked Islamic militant group has said it staged Sunday's attack on a resort area in Mali popular with foreigners, killing five people, including a Portuguese soldier who had been serving in the European Union mission to stabilize this West African country wracked by mounting extremism.

The recently formed Mali-based Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen extremist group claimed responsibility for the attack, according to SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors jihadi websites.

Ansar Dine, Al-Mourabitoun and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb declared in March that they had merged into Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen.

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3:30 p.m.

Authorities in Mali say the death toll has risen to five people following a terror attack on a luxury resort area popular with foreigners in Mali's capital.

Mali's security minister announced Monday that a Chinese national had died from injuries sustained in the Sunday afternoon attack.

Already authorities have said that a Portuguese soldier taking part in the European Union mission to stabilize Mali was killed. A Malian soldier and another Malian national who worked for the EU mission were also among the victims, along with a dual French-Gabonese citizen whose name has not been released.

Four jihadists stormed the Campement Kangaba resort area on the outskirts of the capital, opening fire on people who had come to spend the day by the swimming pools.

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1 p.m.

Mali special forces spokesman and commanding officer Modibo Naman Traore says at least four people have been killed in the attack by jihadis at Le Campement Kangaba on the outskirts of Bamako, Mali's capital.

He said the dead include the two civilians who were pronounced dead on Sunday, along with a Portuguese soldier from the EU mission and a Malian soldier who died Monday from their wounds.

12:20 p.m.

The Portuguese military says one of its soldiers on a European Union training mission in Mali has died in what it called a terrorist attack. The military said in a statement the attack occurred Sunday at the Le Campement Kangaba, in the outskirts of Bamako, the West African country's capital.

The statement Monday said the hotel was an approved rest and recreation location for soldiers on duty with the EU mission. Other foreign troops were at the hotel at the time. A Malian official said Monday that two died in the attack and the four assailants were killed.

12:00 p.m.

Security forces killed at least four jihadis after the extremists attacked a resort spot popular with foreigners on the outskirts of Mali's capital Sunday in which two people were killed, the country's security minister said Monday.

Mali's Security Minister Salif Traore told The Associated Press that all the attackers had been killed.

The jihadis on Sunday afternoon attacked Campement Kangaba, yelling "Allah Akbar" and took hostages. Authorities said more than 30 people managed to escape although at least two people were killed, including a dual French-Gabonese citizen.

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Baba Ahmed in Bamako, Mali. AP writer Barry Hatton in Lisbon, Portugal, also contributed.
The Latest on a van plowing into a crowd outside a London mosque (all times local):

8:30 p.m.

The United States says it "strongly condemns" an attack near a mosque in London and that the attack appears to have targeted Muslim worshippers.

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert says the U.S. stands with the U.K. and is ready to provide any help that British officials would find helpful. She's calling the incident a "terrorist attack."

A large white van driven by a man identified as 47-year-old Darren Osborne apparently swerved into a group of Muslims who were leaving evening prayers early Monday. At least nine people were injured.

Nauert says the U.S. is extending sympathy to the families and communities of the victims and hopes the wounded recover quickly.

She says the U.S. commends the first responders and the bystanders for their courage in apprehending the attacker until police arrived.

The State Department says the U.S. and the U.K. remain committed to fighting "the plague of terrorism."

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7:10 p.m.

The White House says President Donald Trump is receiving updates on the incident in north London in which a car plowed into a crowd of pedestrians near a mosque.

White House press secretary Sean Spicer says the administration's thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.

Spicer says the U.S. has "made it very clear to our British allies that we stand ready to provide any support or assistance they need."

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6:45 p.m.

British media have named the suspect in Monday's mosque attack as 47-year-old Darren Osborne, a father of four who was living in Cardiff, Wales.

British Security Minister Ben Wallace said authorities were aware of rising far-right activity but were not aware of the suspect prior to the attack near a north London mosque.

The large white van driven by Osborne apparently swerved into a group of Muslims who were leaving evening prayers. At least nine people were injured. Police are treating the incident as a terror attack.

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4:50 p.m.

London police say a 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder as well as attempted murder after a car plowed into a crowd of pedestrians near a north London mosque.

The man, who is in custody at a south London police station, was arrested earlier on suspicion of attempted murder.

The Metropolitan Police said in a statement that the man was detained by members of the public at the scene of the attack early Monday.

Authorities say a residential area in Cardiff, Wales, is also being searched.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu says: "This is being treated as a terrorist incident and is being investigated by the Counter Terrorism Command."

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4:10 p.m.

The World Jewish Congress is condemning the attack on a crowd outside a London mosque, saying all people must "stand together to defend the critical values of tolerance and freedom that make our society strong."

WJC President Ronald Lauder said in a statement Monday that the organization stands together with the people of London "in confronting another horrible act of terror."

He says "I condemn the abhorrent and vicious attack carried out against innocent people gathered to worship during the holy month of Ramadan."

___

3:40 p.m.

Community leaders are praising a local imam for restraining a mob that had surrounded the man accused of driving a van into a crowd of worshippers near Finsbury Park Mosque in London.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud told reporters Monday that he and "other brothers" were able to prevent onlookers from beating up the suspect and held him until police arrived. The 48-year-old suspect had been surrounded by an angry crowd that is believed to have pulled him from the van used in the attack.

Mahmoud says "By God's grace, we were able to protect him from harm."

The ambulance service says nine people injured in the attack were taken to local hospitals. One man died at the scene, but it was not immediately clear whether he was killed by the attacker's actions or some other cause.

___

2:15 p.m.

London's police commander says the van attack near Finsbury Park Mosque was clearly an attack on Muslims.

Commander Cressida Dick, speaking Monday in the London neighborhood of Finsbury Park, says people in Muslim communities will see more of their police protecting them in the coming days.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, meanwhile, paid tribute to the local community who apprehended the attacker near the mosque, especially the religious leader who kept him safe from mob violence.

Khan says all these incidents are attacks on the city's shared values. He vows "we will not allow these terrorists to succeed ... we will stay a strong city." Khan also declared that British officials have "zero tolerance" for hate crimes.

___

1:55 p.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May is visiting London's Finsbury Park Mosque, meeting with members of a community trying to come to terms with an attack in which a van barreled into a crowd of worshippers leaving Ramadan prayers.

May met with representatives from a variety of faiths only hours after the incident early Monday.

The visit has a political dimension. May has been widely criticized for her response to a massive fire in a high-rise apartment block last week that has killed at least 79 people.

May was accused of insensitivity and failing to exhibit leadership for a bungled response on the first day of the tower fire disaster. In particular, she visited the devastated fire site to meet with emergency responders but took days to meet with survivors, hundreds of which were made homeless by the blaze.

___

1:35 p.m.

The German government is offering its condolences over an attack on worshippers outside a London mosque, which it says appears to have been an act of "blind hatred."

Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman, Steffen Seibert, said Monday that the government's sympathy goes to the victims and their relatives, the London mosque community and "all our friends in London and Britain who are barely able to find peace at the moment."

Seibert calls the attack "an act of blind hatred  and that would give it a place in the terrorist acts of recent weeks and months."

Ten people were injured in the early Monday attack on worshippers coming out of the Finsbury Park Mosque in London.

___

12:55 p.m.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque and other faith leaders in London have held a moment of silence for victims of a driver who plowed into a crowd of worshippers leaving a Ramadan prayer service.

After the silence, Mohammed Kozbar read a brief statement declaring that an "an attack on one faith is an attack on all faiths."

Kozbar was surrounded by leaders of other faiths in the community and by Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, who is the local member of Parliament for the area.

A 48-year-old white man has been arrested and charged with attempted murder and police say they're investigating it as a terror attack. Ten people have been injured. A man who was being given first aid at the time died at the scene, but it's not clear if he died as a direct result of the attack.

___

12:45 p.m.

Prime Minister Theresa May has praised the bravery of members of the public who detained the driver of a van that plowed into a crowd of worshippers outside a London mosque.

Speaking outside her Downing Street office, a somber May says the driver of the van was a 48-year-old white man.

May says he was bravely detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police.

The chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House tells Sky News a local imam intervened to keep the van driver from being attacked by the crowd outside the Finsbury Park Mosque.

Eight people were in the hospital and two more were treated at the site of the incident. One person died at the scene but it's not clear if he died from the attack or something else.

___

12:30 p.m.

British security officials say hate crimes directed at Muslims have increased nearly five-fold in the wake of several attacks in Britain blamed on Islamic extremists.

An official said Monday that counterterrorism officials were closely monitoring terror activity linked to far-right groups but most of the recent attacks have been traced back to individuals rather than groups.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak about the ongoing investigation into an attack on worshippers outside a mosque in London. Ten people were injured when a 48-year-old white man plowed a van into a crowd of people leaving evening prayers. Police say they're treating it as a terrorist incident.

In the past three months, mosques across Britain have reported several attacks against worshippers and places of worship.

 By Paisley Dodds in London

___

12:05 p.m.

Prime Minister Theresa May has responded to complaints from some in the Muslim community that police failed to quickly respond to the attack on the north London mosque and declare it terrorism.

Speaking outside her Downing Street office Monday, May said officers responded to the attack in one minute and declared it a terror attack within eight minutes.

May says hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed and she says the government will "stop at nothing" to defeat extremism.

Ten people have been injured in the attack on Muslim worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque, with eight of them sent to hospitals. Police are investigating whether a man who died while being given first aid at the scene was killed by the attack or something else.

___

12 p.m.

UK Prime Minister Theresa May has described an attack on a north London mosque attack as a "sickening" attempt to destroy liberties that unite Britain, such as freedom of worship.

May says the man who plowed a van into a crowd of people leaving evening prayers acted alone and that people outside the mosque apprehended him.

Ten people were injured and police are investigating whether a man who died while being given first aid at the scene died from the attack or something else.

May praised the resolve of the people of London in responding to the incident and said extra police resources have already been deployed to assure the public in a time of tension.

___

11:40 a.m.

Muslim leaders in London are appealing for calm after a van was driven deliberately into a crowd of worshippers leaving evening prayers at a mosque. Ten people have been injured, with eight sent to hospitals. Police are investigating whether a man who died at the scene was killed by the attack or something else.

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, tells Sky News there is no "need to react with tension."

Kacimi says the attacker shouted at the crowd, but that the local imam intervened to save his life.

Kacimi says people grabbed the attacker outside the Finsbury Park Mosque and started hitting him. He says the imam "went there and saved him. He saved his life basically."

___

11:35 a.m.

London police say they're investigating whether the death of a man outside a London mosque was the direct result of a van plowing into a crowd of Muslim worshippers.

Ten people were injured in the attack, which police are treating as a terrorist incident. Eight have been hospitalized. A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police say in a statement that a worshipper was receiving first aid outside the mosque at the time of the attack. He died at the scene, but they say it's not clear if he died from the van attack or something else.

___

8:30 a.m.

London police say one suspect has been detained in an apparent early-morning attack on worshippers standing outside a mosque.

Police say incident has all the "hallmarks" of a terrorist" incident.

Police said a suspect was quickly and calmly turned over to the police, and that no one else was found in the van.

One man died at the scene and 10 people were injured.

___

7:50 a.m.

British Home Secretary Amber Rudd says police "immediately" treated a fatal incident outside a London mosque as a suspected terrorist attack.

One man outside the Finsbury Park mosque died at the scene, a van driver was arrested and eight people were taken to hospitals following the early morning incident.

Rudd, who is in charge for government law enforcement, said: "Londoners have been hit with a series of attacks and have been nothing short of heroic." she said Monday.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, has complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

___

7:20 a.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May says she will chair an emergency meeting Monday morning following a van crash in which a man died at the scene. Eight injured people were taken to hospitals, and a suspect was arrested.

May said: "All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene."

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque, Mohammed Kozbar, says the incident was a "cowardly attack" on worshippers. He complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

Police say no other suspects have been identified, but their investigation continues.

The force added: "Due to the nature of this incident extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan."

___

6:50 a.m.

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque says the van crash that hit worshippers was a "cowardly attack" and urged Muslims going to mosques to be vigilant.

Mohammed Kozbar said the attack early Monday morning was no different than the recent attacks on London Bridge and Manchester Arena and said the Muslim community is "in shock."

Kozbar complained that the "mainstream media" was unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

Police said the driver was arrested and the crash was being investigated as suspected terrorism. One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

___

6:30 a.m.

Video filmed in the immediate aftermath of a van striking worshippers near a London mosque showed a Caucasian man being detained by police.

Someone in the crowd yelled to others not to harm the man while he was taken into custody. The video of the crash early Monday morning was accessed by the AP. Police have said the driver was a 48-year-old man who was arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. They are investigating the crash as suspected terrorism.

Someone in the crowd is heard yelling, "No one touch him! No one! No one!"

The crash occurred near the Finsbury Park Mosque as worshippers were leaving after Ramadan prayers.

___

5:45 a.m.

British Prime Minister Theresa May says she will chair an emergency session of the security Cabinet later Monday after a van crash in London that is being investigating as possible terrorism.

A van struck several worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque early Monday morning after Ramadan prayers.

The driver was arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. May says police are treating the crash as a potential terrorist attack.

One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

___

5:30 a.m.

A leader of the Muslim Council of Britain has called for extra security at mosques after a van struck worshippers leaving prayers at the Finsbury Park mosque.

Police have said they are investigating the crash as suspected terrorism and have arrested the driver, a 48-year-old man who was taken to a hospital as a precaution. One person was killed and 10 were hurt.

The group's general secretary, Harun Khan, said that eyewitnesses saw the van driver hit a number of Muslims.

"During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship. It appears from eyewitness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia," he said.

___

5:15 a.m.

Police say the driver of a van that hit pedestrians on a London road is a 48-year-old man who has been arrested and taken to a hospital.

The van struck a crowd of worshippers leaving a mosque early Monday morning, killing one person and injuring several others. Eight of the injured were taken to hospitals and the rest were treated at the scene.

Several hundred worshippers would have been in the area at the time after attending prayers as part of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Police said the Counter Terrorism Command was investigating the crash. Britain's terrorist alert has been set at "severe" meaning an attack is highly likely.
Witnesses outside a London mosque, where a van mowed down worshippers killing one and injuring 10 others, described the scene to reporters early Monday.

Mohammed Abdullah, a delivery driver, was on a bike about three cars behind the incident in Finsbury Park when he saw the white van make a sharp left turn.

"I think he done it on purpose. I was on a ped. He was about three cars in front of me. He came in a bus lane and took a sharp left, Abdullah told Sky News. He went on top of the people. He actually ran them over. It was a white van.

Abdullah added that there were three people in the van and that two of them ran away. However, police have not confirmed that but one man, aged 48, was arrested after being held by pedestrians.

"I've seen about six or seven people on the floor. Most of them was male. It was exactly the same time as the prayers finished. As soon as it finished, this guy came. I think (the road he took) is a blocked road - It's not even a through road, he said.

Abdullah said the man who was in custody did not say anything.

"I saw 6 or 7 people on the floor" - Witness describes the moment a white van hit people leaving a mosque 'on purpose' in Finsbury Park pic.twitter.com/OhWvLctek2  Sky News (@SkyNews) June 19, 2017

"He had a tattoo on his back. He was not ill. He was not drunk. He got arrested by five or six police officers. They took him away. They never dropped him or nothing."

Finsbury Park resident Cynthia Vanzella said she saw police rendering aid to victims.

#FinsburyPark van incident: Footage shows the moment a man who was allegedly in the van being arrested pic.twitter.com/M8NZihu4Uo  Sky News (@SkyNews) June 19, 2017

"I heard a lot of shouting and panic. It was really ugly. I could see at least two people on the floor not moving and police officers trying to do cardiac massage on them, she told Sky News.

One man, only identified as Mohin, told the Press Association his cousin was caught up in the crash.

There were a lot of people in the street, crossing the street, going to mosque for prayers, for forgiveness, just to pray and go home and eat, he said. They are doing their usual daily routine - they did not expect a van coming out of nowhere hitting them.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Click for more from Sky News.
Authorities in London on Sunday released three photos from inside the charred apartment building, which show in close detail how the fire devastated the 24-story building that once housed 600 people.

One photo shows a burnt-out elevator on an undisclosed floor of the Grenfell Tower that was ravaged in Wednesdays inferno, while another shows an apartment reduced to rubble and white ash.

London fire officials confirmed Monday that 79 people are confirmed dead or presumed dead in the blaze and authorities fear the death toll will rise further.

Two British ministers said Sunday that the new exterior cladding used in a renovation on Grenfell Tower may have been banned under U.K. building regulations.

Trade Minister Greg Hands said the government is carrying out an "urgent inspection" of the roughly 2,500 similar tower blocks across Britain to assess their safety, while an opposition lawmaker urged the government to quickly secure documents in the Grenfell renovation for the criminal probe.

Hands and Treasury chief Philip Hammond said in separate TV appearances that the cladding used on Grenfell seems to be prohibited by British regulations. Hands cautioned that officials don't yet have exact details about the renovation that ended just last year.

"My understanding is that the cladding that was reported wasn't in accordance with U.K. building regulations," Hands told Sky News. "We need to find out precisely what cladding was used and how it was attached."

Experts believe the building's new exterior cladding, which contained insulation, helped spread the flames quickly up the outside of the public housing tower early Wednesday. Some said they had never seen a building fire advance so quickly.

Police Commander Stuart Cundy said police will seek criminal prosecutions if the evidence warrants. He has not provided details about the inquiry.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Sunday after attending a church service several blocks from the tower that the fatal blaze was entirely preventable.

He said displaced residents are "angry not simply at the poor response in the days afterwards from the council and the government, but the years of neglect from the council and successive governments."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In the dark, early hours of Monday morning, 47-year-old Darren Osborne of Cardiff allegedly drove a large cargo van into a crowd of Muslims leaving Ramadan prayers at a north London mosque. The attack left at least one person dead and 10 injured in an incident British authorities are treating as an act of terrorism.

The attack, which occurred in the Finsbury Park neighborhood, only a few days since an alleged neo-Nazi in the Swedish city of Malmo plowed into a demonstration of around 20 to 30 Iraqi refugees protesting the Nordic nations new asylum laws.

While terror attacks perpetrated by the Islamic State  or those who share the Sunni Muslim groups ideology  have received widespread coverage in the media and generated huge amounts of public outcry, the same cannot be said for the violence directed at Muslim communities around the world.

Yet across the U.S., hate crimes aimed at the Islamic community have spiked in the last few years - from a Muslim woman in Milwaukee being beaten for wearing a hijab to a Long Island woman's car being vandlaized with the words "Trump" and "Islam" etched onto the vehicle.

How we talk about Muslims and what we hear about Muslims is always about terrorism, Rabiah Ahmed, the director of media and public affairs at the Muslim Public Affairs Council, told Fox News. So there is no wonder that there is now a backlash against our community.

Over the last few years, anti-Muslim violence in the United States alone has risen to levels not seen since the days following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. A report by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) found that hate crime incidents directed at Muslims jumped 44 percent  from 180 to 260  between 2015 and 2016, and that number is expected to go higher this year.

Ive never seen anything like it, Ibrahim Hooper, a CAIR spokesman told Fox News. Even after 9/11 it wasnt this bad. Back then there was Islamophobia for sure, but it was on the fringe, but now its in the mainstream, its in the White House.

Hooper is one of many activists in the Islamic community who point to a connection between the escalation of attacks on Muslims and the upward political trajectory of Donald Trump.

Both on the campaign trail and now in the Oval Office, President Trumps rhetoric toward Muslims and combating terrorism  especially his controversial call to ban refugees and immigrants from six majority-Muslim countries from entering the U.S.  has both bolstered support among some of his supporters and worried many in the U.S. Islamic community.

The polarization of the political spectrum is creating a really dangerous situation, Ahmed said. A lot of people feel more emboldened by the type of rhetoric being espoused now.

Ahmed added: Its a very scary world we live in.

As last weeks incident in Malmo highlights, instances of anti-Muslim violence are not isolated to the U.S., but recently appear to be spreading in Europe.

The 2016 European Islamophobia Report, featuring the work of 31 scholars across the continent, found that much of the violence directed toward Muslims can be attributed to the arrival of thousands of refugees fleeing war-torn nations in the Middle East and North Africa.

In Germany, which took in more than 1 million asylum seekers in 2015 alone, there were 1,031 anti-Muslim attacks in 2015 and more than 3,500 last year.

The anti-Muslim trend is also being stoked by the rising tide of populist politicians across the continent, some of whom say the influx of Muslims threatens European economies and employment.

In Hungary, where unemployment is less than 5 percent, Prime Minister Viktor Orban has already completed one of Trumps campaign proposals in his own country by building a border fence to keep migrants out, and leaders from the far-right German political party Alternative for Germany have encouraged officers to use firearms if necessary to prevent migrants from illegally entering the country.

There appears to be a positive relationship between a nations economic well-being, or lack thereof, and the growth of populist right-wing political parties that scapegoat Muslims and immigrants for societys perceived ills, wrote Engy Abdelkader, a professor at Georgetown Universitys Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service. Ultimately, however, threats and acts of anti-Muslim violence in a number of European contexts increasingly demonstrate more than a simple sense of dissatisfaction with political, social, or economic challenges. Rather, they reveal a sense of increasing hatred toward Muslims as a people.

Of all Muslims, experts contend that women have it the worst when it comes to both violence and harassment. Whether it is the controversy surrounding the so-called burkini ban on French beaches in 2016 or the attack on the woman in Wisconsin, female Muslims appear to be easy targets for anti-Islam extremists.

Its a particularly scary time for Muslim women who wear traditional garb, Hooper said. There is a great deal of tension in the American Muslim community. These types of things seem to happen on a daily basis now. Its frightening.

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated that the killing of a 17-year-old girl in Virginia was being investigated as a possible hate crime. It has since been deemed a road rage incident.
Metropolitan Police arrested a man accused of driving into pedestrians as they exited Ramadan prayers at a London mosque.

The vehicle attack outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park left one person dead and eight others injured. Police said they are investigating it as a terror incident.

Leaders in the United Kingdom and around the world shared their reaction on social media.
Details emerged Monday on the seven U.S. Navy sailors found dead on the USS Fitzgerald after a merchant vessel struck the warship miles off the coast of Japan.

The U.S. Navys 7th Fleet identified the sailors killed after Saturday's crash as:

Gunners Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Va.

Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, Calif.

Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Conn.

Gunners Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas

Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, Calif.

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Md.

Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio

Huynhs sister told WVIT-TV that her brother had the brightest smile. Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy ordered flags be flown at half-staff in honor of Huynh.

Gary Rehm Jr., 37, was three months shy from retiring before the collision killed him, according to The Chronicle.

Gary was one of those guys that always had a smile on his face, Daniel Kahle, Navy veteran, told The Chronicle. (Gary was) such a great guy and (its) such a great loss. He needs to be remembered for the person we all knew him to be.

The bodies were found in previously flooded compartments, including sleeping quarters. Searchers gained access to these spaces that were damaged during the collision and brought the remains to Naval Hospital Yokosuka, the Navy said Saturday.

The Navy said that the collision occurred 56 nautical miles southwest of Yokosuka, home to the 7th Fleet.

The USS Fitzgerald was back at its home port in Yokosuka Naval Base south of Tokyo by sunset Saturday. The 29,060-ton Philippine-flagged container ship, ACX Crystal, was berthed at Tokyos Oi wharf, where officials were questioning crew members about the cause of the nighttime crash. The ACX Crystal's crew were all Filipinos.

After stabilizing the USS Fitzgerald, the destroyer USS Dewey had joined other American and Japanese vessels and aircraft in the search for the missing sailors.

The U.S. 7th Fleet said in a statement that the crash damaged two berthing spaces, a machinery room and the radio room. The majority of the nearly 300 sailors aboard would have been asleep in their berths at the time of the pre-dawn crash.

Japans coast guard was investigating why it took nearly an hour for the collision to be reported. A Japanese coast guard official said Monday that they are investigating what the crew of the ACX Crystal was doing before reporting the crash.

The coast guard initially said the collision occurred at 2:20 a.m. because the cargo ship had reported it at 2:25 a.m. and said it just happened. After interviewing Filipino crewmembers, the coast guard has changed the collision time to 1:30 a.m.

U.S. SHOOT-DOWN OF SYRIAN JET PROMPTS RUSSIAN THREAT

Japanese coast guard crews were planning to retrieve a device with communications records to examine further details of the crash, one official said. Japans Transport Safety Board also began an accident investigation Monday.

A U.S. Navy official said it is sticking with the 2:20 a.m. timing for the crash, the time reported by the Fitzgerald.

When asked about the earlier time cited by the coast guard, Navy spokesman Cmdr. Ron Flanders said, That is not our understanding. He said any differences would have to be clarified in the investigation.

MOTHER: SON TRIED TO SAVE NAVY SHIPMATES

Japanese coast guard officials are investigating the case as possible professional negligence, but no criminal charges have been pressed so far.

Nippon Yusen, the Japanese shipping company that operates the container ship, said in a statement that it is collaborating with the ship owner and fully cooperating with the investigation by the coast guard.

We are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our fellow shipmates, Sean Stackley, acting Navy secretary said. As details emerge, we can all be proud of the heroic effort by the crew to tend to the needs of those injured and save the ship from further damage while returning safely to port.

The USS Fitzgerald collision is the third mishap since late January involving Navy warships near Japan.

On Jan. 31, USS Antietam, a guided-missile cruiser, damaged its propellers and spilled hydraulic oil into the ocean after running aground off the coast of Japan. At the time, officials told Fox News the warship had dragged its anchor after 30 knot winds blew the ship from its anchorage onto shoal water grounding.

Last month, USS Lake Champlain, a guided-missile cruiser, hit a South Korean fishing boat, near the Korean peninsula but no injuries were reported.

Fox News Lucas Tomlinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A suspect who tried to attack security forces on the Champs-Elysees shopping district in Paris Monday afternoon -- when he rammed his car into a police van -- had a rifle and explosives in his vehicle, French investigators said.

The attacker died shortly after the incident, the French Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said. The attacker, a 31-year-old man from the Paris suburb of Argenteuil, was badly burned after his car exploded when he deliberately crashed it into a police van. The police van caught fire, but it was quickly contained, officials said. The bomb squad was called to the scene.

Authorities discovered a gas tank and an AK-47 rifle in the attacker's car, Fox News confirmed. The man had been flagged by investigators earlier for extremism, French police said.

The attacker was identified as Adam Dzaziri. Dzaziri, who had been raised in the Salafi Islamic ideology, didnt have a criminal record but he had been on Frances security watch list since 2015 due to ties to the radical Islamist movement, according to news.com.au.

France's anti-terrorism prosecutor has opened an investigation into the incident.

Eric Favereau, a journalist for Liberation newspaper who was driving a scooter behind the military officers, said he saw a car blocking the convoy's path, then an implosion in the vehicle. Favereau wrote that the officers smashed open the windows of the car while it was in flames and dragged out its occupant.

Other officers used fire extinguishers to put out the flames, Favereau said.

There were no other reported injuries.

Champs-Elysees is Paris' most popular avenue and one of the city's most famous tourist attractions. This was the second incident on the avenue this year. An attacker defending the Islamic State terror group shot and killed a police officer on the Champs-Elysees in April, days before a presidential election, prompting an extensive security operation. France is under a state of emergency after a string of deadly Islamic extremist attacks.

Collomb said said he will present a bill on Wednesday at a Cabinet meeting to extend the state of emergency from July 15, its current expiration date, until Nov. 1. He added that Monday's incident showed that a new security law "is needed" in France and the measure would "maintain a high security level" beyond the end of the state of emergency.

France has been under a state of emergency since the November 2015 attacks by Islamic extremists in Paris.

The incident also came after a van mowed down several people leaving a London mosque just after midnight on Monday. One person died and 10 people were injured in the assault.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Authorities in northeastern Nigeria say 12 people are dead after suicide bombing attacks not far from the city of Maiduguri.

Police spokesman Victor Isuku said Monday that the attacks were carried about by five female bombers in Kofa, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Maiduguri.

The first attack killed several people near a mosque, while five others were killed in a house.

Last late year Nigeria declared that the Boko Haram extremist group had been crushed but attacks continue, often with young women strapped with explosives to carry out suicide attacks.

Many of the young women are believed to be among those abducted by the jihadists, who have pledged their allegiance to the Islamic State.
The New York City attack is the latest in a series of recent terror strikes aimed at the West.

Here is a timeline of recent terror attacks in Europe and the United States:

Oct. 31, 2017: Truck rams into cyclists, pedestrians in New York City

Sayfullo Saipov, 29, from Uzbekistan, allegedly drove a rented truck into a crowd of pedestrians and cyclists on a bike path near the World Trade Center in Manhattan.

The attack killed 8 people and injured at least 12 others.

New York City officials later confirmed the attack was carried out in the name of ISIS.

Sept. 15, 2017: Terror on the tube

At least 22 people were injured when an apparent bucket bomb exploded on a London subway, causing mass panic and flash burns.

Aug. 17, 2017: Van ramming in Barcelona

A van attack killed 14 people in Barcelona, while another person was stabbed to death by the attacker as he fled. Another attack in nearby Cambrils a day later left one dead. The attacks were claimed by ISIS.

June 3, 2017: Van ramming and stabbing in London

Seven people were killed and dozens were injured by three assailants who plowed through pedestrians on the London Bridge and stabbed revelers in Borough Market.

May 22, 2017: Outside Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England

Twenty-two people were killed and dozens more injured by a suicide bomber with apparent connections to an organized terror network.

April 20, 2017: Champs Elysees attack in Paris

An attacker got out of a car and fired an automatic weapon at a parked police van, killing the officer inside, before shooting at others standing on the nearby sidewalk, injuring two before he was shot and killed by police.

The French president said the attack was terrorist in nature and promised utmost vigilance.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack.

April 7, 2017: Stockholm truck attack

Five people were killed when a truck driven by a man drove into a pedestrian shopping street and department store in Swedens capital city, wounding over a dozen others.

The 39-year-old man allegedly admitted to being a member of ISIS and told police that he had achieved what he set out to do.

April 3, 2017: Saint Petersburg bombing

A suicide bombing on the subway in Russias second largest city killed more than a dozen passengers and injured dozens more.

March 22, 2017: Westminster Bridge attack

Five people, including a London police officer who was stabbed and the perpetrator, were killed in a terror attack. More than 40 people were injured outside the Parliament building.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said the act was sick and depraved.

ISIS later claimed responsibility.

Feb. 3, 2017: Louvre knife attack

A machete-wielding man yelling Allahu Akbar attacked soldiers in a shopping mall near the Louvre in Paris. He was shot and wounded by soldiers.

Dec. 19, 2016: Germany Christmas market

A large truck plowed through a Christmas market in central Berlin, which killed 12 and injured 48 others.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack and said the attacker was a soldier of the Islamic State through Amaq news agency.

Nov. 28, 2016: Ohio State

Abdul Razak Ali Artan, an Ohio State University student, ran his car into a group of students and slashed people with a butcher knife.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack and called Artan a soldier.

Oct. 16, 2016: Hamburg, Germany

There was a lone wolf knife attack in Hamburg, Germany, which claimed the life of one teenager.

July 26, 2016: Normandy, France

Two men took five people hostage during a Mass at a church in Normandy and murdered an elderly priest by stabbing him in the chest and slitting his throat. The hostages were freed later, and the two men were arrested.

Then-President Francois Hollande said that the men carried out the attack in the name of ISIS.

July 14, 2016: Nice, France

Seventy-seven people were killed in Nice, France, when a truck drove through a crowd on Bastille Day.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack.

June 12, 2016: Orlando nightclub shooting

Omar Mateen attacked an Orlando gay nightclub, killing 50 people. Mateen pledged allegiance to ISIS on a 911 call, in one of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history, and the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil since 9/11.

ISIS later claimed responsibility for the attack

March 22, 2016: Belgium attack

There were two suicide bombings on March 22, 2016one at Brussels Airport and the other in the citys subway system. Combined, the attacks killed 32 people.

The ISIS cell that claimed responsibility for the Brussels attack was also linked to those involved in the Nov. 13, 2015 terror attacks in Paris.

Jan. 11, 2016: Marseille, France

A teenager attacked a Jewish teacher in Marseille with a machete. He told police that he carried out the attack in the name of ISIS.

Jan. 7, 2016: Philadelphia, Penn.

A man shot and wounded a Philadelphia police officer. The man claimed the attack was in the name of Islam and ISIS.

Dec. 2, 2015: San Bernardino shooting

A married couple shot and killed 14 people in San Bernardino, Calif. The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of terrorism inspired by ISIS.

Nov. 13, 2015: Paris attacks

A series of coordinated terrorist attacks in Paris killed 130 people and injured hundreds more. The attacks consisted of mass shootings and suicide bombings.

ISIS claimed responsibility.

Aug. 21, 2015: Paris

Three Americans were at the center of an attempted mass shooting. They helped to overpower a gunman who was armed with a Kalashnikov, and opened fire on a train from Amsterdam to Paris.

The gunman was on the radar of European counterterrorism agencies and appeared to be sympathetic to ISIS.

Feb. 15, 2015: Denmark

A Denmark national who was inspired by ISIS went on a rampage through the nations capital, killing two and wounding five police officers.

Jan. 7-9, 2015: Charlie Hebdo

There was an attack on the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, and four attacks around Paris followed, killing 17 people.

ISIS claimed responsibility.

May 24, 2014: Jewish Museum shooting

Four people were killed at the Jewish Museum in Brussels by an intruder with a Kalashnikov. The accused was a former French fighter linked to ISIS in Syria.

May 22, 2013: Lee Rigby attack

Two Al Qaeda-inspired extremists ran down British soldier Lee Rigby in a London street, then stabbed and hacked him to death.

March 2012: France gunman

A gunman claiming links to Al Qaeda killed three Jewish schoolchildren, a rabbi and three paratroopers in Toulouse, southern France.

July 22, 2011: Teenager massacre

Right-wing extremist Anders Behring Breivik planted a bomb in Oslo then launched a shooting massacre on a youth camp on Norways Utoya island, killing 77 people, many of them teenagers.

Nov. 2, 2011: Charlie Hebdo firebombing

The offices of Charlie Hebdo in Paris were firebombed after the satirical magazine ran a cover featuring a caricature of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. No one was injured.

March 2, 2011: Germany shooting

Islamic extremist Arid Uka shot dead two U.S. airmen and injured two others at Frankfurt airport after apparently being inspired by a fake internet video purporting to show American atrocities in Afghanistan.

July 7, 2005: London subway and bus bombings

Four Al Qaeda-inspired suicide bombers blew themselves up on three subway trains and a bus, killing 52 commuters.

March 11, 2004: Madrid train bombing

Bombs on four Madrid commuter trains in the morning rush hour killed 191 people.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
U.S. pilots operating over Syria won't hesitate to defend themselves from Russian threats, a Pentagon spokesperson said Monday in the latest escalation between the two superpowers since a U.S. jet shot down a Syrian aircraft on Sunday.

"We do not seek conflict with any party in Syria other than ISIS, but we will not hesitate to defend ourselves or our partners if threatened," Capt. Jeff Davis told Fox News.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joseph Dunford doubled down on that rhetoric during a Monday speech at the National Press Club.

"I'm confident that we are still communicating between our operations center and the Russia federation operations center -- and I'm also confident that our forces have the capability to take care of themselves," Dunford said.

Department of Defense spokesperson Maj. Adrian J.T. Rankine-Galloway said coalition aircraft would continue conducting "operations throughout Syria, targeting ISIS forces and providing air support for Coalition partner forces on the ground."

"As a result of recent encounters involving pro-Syrian Regime and Russian forces, we have taken prudent measures to re-position aircraft over Syria so as to continue targeting ISIS forces while ensuring the safety of our aircrew given known threats in the battlespace," Rankine-Galloway said in a statement.

Earlier Monday, Russian officials threatened to treat U.S.-led coalition planes flying in Syria, west of the Euphrates River, would be considered targets.

The news came one day after the first time in history a U.S. jet shot down a Syrian plane  and the first time in nearly 20 years the U.S. has shot down any warplane in air-to-air combat.

The last time a U.S. jet had shot down another countrys aircraft came over Kosovo in 1999 when a U.S. Air Force F-15 Eagle shot down a Serbian MiG-29.

On Sunday, it was a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet that shot down a Syrian SU-22 after that jet dropped bombs near U.S. partner forces taking on ISIS.

Russia's defense ministry also said Monday it was suspending coordination with the U.S. in Syria over so-called "de-confliction zones" after the downing of the Syrian jet.

NAVY SHOOTS DOWN SYRIAN WARPLANE

The United States and Russia, which has been providing air cover for Syria's President Bashar Assad since 2015 in his offensive against ISIS, have a standing agreement that should prevent in-the-air incidents involving U.S. and Russian jets engaged in operations over Syria.

The Russian defense ministry said it viewed the incident as Washington's deliberate failure to make good on its commitments under the de-confliction deal.'

IRAN STRIKES SYRIA OVER TEHRAN TERROR ATTACKS

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, in comments to Russian news agencies, compared the downing to helping the terrorists that the U.S. is fighting against.

What is this, if not an act of aggression, he asked.

Meanwhile, the U.S.-backed opposition fighters said Assad's forces have been attacking their positions in the northern province of Raqqa and warned that if such attacks continue, the fighters will take action.

"Would just tell you that we'll work diplomatically and militarily in the coming hours to establish deconfliction," Dunford said.

Fox News Lucas Tomlinson and Jennifer Griffin and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
UPDATE: (1:09 p.m.) The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch that is in effect until 8 p.m.

A cold front will move through the area this afternoon. Widespread showers and thunderstorms with scattered intense rainfall rates will continue to spread across the area.

Widespread rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are expected with localized amounts of 3 to 4 inches possible which could result in flash flooding.

Flash flooding of creeks, streams and roadways will be possible, especially in urban and poor drainage areas.

(12:54 p.m.) The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch that is in effect until 8 p.m. The main threat is isolated to scattered damaging wind gusts. Isolated tornadoes and locally large hail are also possible.

Strong to severe storms will herald a cold fronts approach this afternoon.

The hot and sticky conditions around Fredericksburg will clash with cooler dryer air behind a cold front that is now crossing West Virginia. The atmospheric conflict will result in chances for severe storms impacting the area beginning anytime after 3 pm this afternoon (Monday). As illustrated on the first graphic, the Storm Prediction Center has the Burg under an Enhanced Risk (level 3 of 5 on the severity scale) today which is very significant.

Although a tornado or two across northern Virginia is possible the main threats will be severe (>60 mph) straight-line winds and very heavy rains. The second graphic shows a weather measurement known as precipitable water. As shown for 6 pm this evening this value is forecast to be above 2.5 inches for Fredericksburg and vicinity. That is a very high number for this parameter and is a reflection of the high water content of the atmosphere which is adding to the general stickiness.

As a result, NWS Sterling has issued a Flash Flood Watch from 3:00 until 9:00 pm today for most of the DC metro area. At the moment, this watch only extends southward to Prince William County, but I wouldnt be surprised if later updates included parts of the immediate Fredericksburg area. Past experience would indicate that such high winds plus heavy rains could equal downed/uprooted trees later today which could block roads and take down power lines.

So to sum up: beginning anytime after 3 pm this afternoon will feature some wild and woolly weather with at least one and maybe a couple of rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms. In addition to always dangerous lightning these storms will bring very strong straight-line winds (and perhaps a tornado somewhere) along with very heavy rains. To put it bluntly the late day commute could be nightmarish with flooded or blocked roadways and power outages.

The silver lining to all this is that the weather on Tuesday and Wednesday looks to be much more pleasant than the recent sticky heat. Sunshine, lower humidity, and temperatures topping out in the mid-80s are all in the forecast for the next two days. But first cometh today's cold front.

Stay tuned to weather warning sources (local TV/radio, NOAA weather radio, smartphone apps, etc) and keep an eye to the sky this afternoon. Plan to take shelter if/when NWS Sterling issues weather warnings. It could be a rough way to start the work week.
Unpaid tabs are sending Arthur Leon Brewer back to jail, a place he has spent most of his adult life.

The 49-year-old convicted killer and drug dealer, who has been declared mentally handicapped, was ordered on Monday to serve one year and six months for not paying more than $3,000 in fines and costs owed as part of his nearly 30-year-old murder conviction in Fredericksburg. Failure to pay the costs and fines are a violation of Brewers parole, and could have led to a nine-year sentence for time suspended.

The fines and costs are tied to Brewers July 1989 murder conviction in the shooting death of a man in Bragg Hill that previous September, according to court records. Brewer, then 22, was ordered to serve 30 years for killing the 31-year-old man.

He didnt serve the entire sentence. Brewer got out early after being paroled in the summer of 2005.

In the winter of that year, Brewer was charged with selling more than 26 grams of crack cocaine to an undercover agent during a series of meetings, according to records from Brewers 2008 case in Fourth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. He was ordered to serve five years and eight months on that conviction. The appeals court later reduced his sentence by 10 months.

In Circuit Court Monday, Brewer told the judge he has lived in a halfway house and said he had nowhere to go when he gets out of jail. He is currently being held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Because the murder happened when Virginia still allowed parole, Brewer will be eligible for early release from his violation sentence.

Brewer pleaded guilty to the Sept. 27, 1988, killing of Carroll Merlin Mickelson. According to the appeals case, he shot the man believing the victim had harassed the child of one of Brewers friends.

Mickelson, a Minnesotan in the area working construction, was found with a bullet wound in his back, lying between townhouses in Bragg Hill, according to a Free LanceStar story at the time.

Detectives discovered that Mickelson had argued with a woman Brewer knew, according to the FLS report. Police said Mickelson was running when Brewer shot him.

In the 2008 appeal, arguing his sentence was too severe because of diminished mental capacity and amendments to mandatory minimum sentences for crack-related crimes, his attorneys noted Brewers low IQ scores on psychological exams.

Psychologists deemed Brewer an easy target for manipulation because he struggled to handle routine functions, which he performed better when told what to do. His attorneys argued to the court that their client was doing just that, following orders, when he sold the crack to the agent, claiming Brewer had been manipulated to sell the drugs by an old high school friend he trusted.
An unidentified man has gotten away with more than $52,000 from a check that a Stafford County company wrote to pay for equipment it had purchased, authorities say.

The Stafford Sheriffs Office is hoping that someone in the public can identify the man who somehow ended up with the money.

According to a news release, an electrical company in Stafford wrote a check on Feb. 6 for $52,242 to pay for equipment. The check was written to the Briggs and Stratton Corp., put into an envelope, properly addressed and put into the companys mailbox for pickup by a Postal Service carrier. It was to be delivered to an address in Chicago.

On Feb. 14, the release states, the man in the photographs opened an account at a Wells Fargo at the Columbia Mall in Columbia, Md., using a fictitious name and fraudulent identification. About a week later, Detective Christine Hammond said, the man withdrew the funds from that account.

Hammond said the local company contacted the Sheriffs Office in March after learning that Briggs and Stratton never received its money. Hammond said the Sheriffs Office contacted the bank a short time later, but didnt receive the photographs until recently.

Hammond said police are still waiting on other information that could be useful in the investigation.

Police said it is not clear where the check was stolen. Hammond said it could have happened anywhere from the mailbox in Stafford to the banks drop box in Chicago.

Anyone with information about the mans identity is asked to contact Detective Hammond at 540/658-4739.
RICHMONDIn 2015, a driver with severe vision problems hit and killed a bicyclist in Hanover County. The motorist was basically legally blind, recalled Del. Hyland Buddy Fowler, who represents the county in the Virginia House of Delegates.

Now the state is about to implement two new laws to help prevent such tragedies. One will require motorists to have a wider field of vision, and the other will encourage health care professionals to report motorists who have medical problems that may impair their driving.

Fowler sponsored both bills in the House, and Sen. Siobhan Dunnavant of Henrico County sponsored companion bills in the Senate. The bills were approved and the new laws will take effect July 1.

The folks at the Virginia Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons took a look at the vision requirements and came to me and said, You need to do better for the public safety issue, and wanted to know if Id carry a bill in the House, which I told them Id be glad to do, said Fowler, whose district includes parts of Hanover, Caroline and Spotsylvania counties.

House Bill 1504 sets new standards for obtaining and keeping a drivers license or learners permit. It will increase the minimum field of vision that a driver must have in Virginia from 100 degrees to 110 degrees. That means drivers must have a greater ability to see what is on the periphery as well as what is in front of them.

Being able to see properly and being able to scan the roads is a very important part of safe driving, said Brandy Brubaker, public relations and media liaison for the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

HB 1514, also carried by Fowler, gives doctors and other health care professionals civil immunity if they report patients who have vision or other medical problems that may impair their ability to drive safely.

The law will protect health care practitioners from legal action if they tell DMV that they believe someone has a disability or impairment and shouldnt be driving. For instance, the motorist could not sue the physician for violating practitionerpatient confidentiality.

With that act of good faith, if they report somebody to the DMV to be examined, and if they suspect that the person shouldnt be driving for legitimate health reasons, they will be protected from a legal situation, Fowler said. He believes the law will foster a greater reporting of folks that probably shouldnt be behind the wheel.

DMV officials said they already protect the identity of people who tell the agency that somebody may be an unsafe driver because of vision or health concerns.

We get these reports from law enforcement, family members, maybe even neighbors, and we are prohibited to release information on the source for those medical reports that we receive, Brubaker said.

When DMV receives such reports, she said, We review cases of drivers who may have health or medical conditions that would impair or hinder their safe driving.
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New Defra secretary Michael Gove has been accused of performing a U-turn over pledges that Brexit would present an opportunity to import cheaper food into the UK.

During the EU referendum campaign, Mr Gove promised British consumers they would benefit from cheaper food because of more imports from outside the EU.

In a previous interview with the Daily Mail, he suggested an independent Britain could choose to strike free-trade agreements with emerging economies and lower tariffs.

He [Mr Gove] told voters that after Brexit there would be honey for tea, but now reality is starting to bite, he is offering British consumers nothing but thin gruel.

Tim Farron

See also: What can farmers expect from Michael Gove?

This would extend new opportunities to developing nations, allowing prices in Britain to become cheaper.

U-turn

However, Mr Gove appeared to contradict this commitment during an interview with press at the Three Counties Show in Malvern, Worcestershire, on Friday (16 June), where he made his first public appearance as the new Defra secretary.

The former education secretary said he intended to protect British farmers from cheaper, lower-quality food imports.

He told reporters: I have absolutely no intention of allowing any of the protections that are currently in place  which ensure that the consumer has high-quality food and that farmers are encouraged to invest in maintaining the very highest standards  to slip. There is no way that is going to be undermined.

South Lakes MP and outgoing Lib Dem leader Tim Farron accused Mr Gove of telling yet another lie to go with the 350m/week he promised the NHS would receive after Brexit.

Mr Farron said: He [Mr Gove] told voters that after Brexit there would be honey for tea, but now reality is starting to bite, he is offering British consumers nothing but thin gruel.

Subsidies pledge

Meanwhile, farmers were still waiting to find out if the Conservatives will honour their commitment to provide at least the same level of support currently receive from EU after Brexit.

So far the Conservatives have only committed to continue current levels of agricultural support up to 2022.

Speaking at the Three Counties Show, Mr Gove said: As we leave the European Union, there is an opportunity for us to look at the way subsidy is allocated in order to see if we can make it more efficient and more effective.

The first thing we need to do is listen to those at the sharp end and learn from them how we can improve the current allocations and delivery of support.
Story Highlights Trust up since 2015 San Bernardino terrorist attack

Worries about being a victim, expectations of an attack down since 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Seventy percent of Americans have "a great deal" or "a fair amount" of confidence in the U.S. government to protect its citizens from future acts of terrorism. This reflects a recovery of confidence from the last time the question was asked, immediately after a terrorist shooting in San Bernardino, California, when 14 people were killed.

These data, from a June 7-11 poll, are Gallup's first measurement of Americans' trust in the federal government to protect citizens from terrorism since President Donald Trump took office. Leading up to this poll, two major terrorist attacks occurred in the United Kingdom in May and June.

Confidence in the U.S. government's ability to protect against terrorism was highest in Gallup's initial measurement, in September 2001, conducted shortly after the 9/11 attacks. As the public rallied around its leaders, 88% expressed confidence in the government to combat terrorism. Confidence in the government's protection under George W. Bush ranged from 73% to 82% in post-9/11 readings.

Americans' confidence in the government to protect citizens from terrorism held steady under President Barack Obama until 2015, when it dipped slightly to 67% in June before dropping further to 55% in December after the San Bernardino attack.

Forty-Two Percent Worry About Being a Victim of Terrorism

As Americans' confidence in the government to protect them has recovered since late 2015, their worries about falling victim to terrorism have also declined to more typical levels. Forty-two percent now say they are "very" or "somewhat worried" that they or a family member will be a victim, down from 51% after San Bernardino. An average of 41% of Americans have expressed this sentiment since Gallup first asked this question in 1995.

In only a few polls since 1995 have a majority of Americans worried about being a victim of terrorism. Those were the four surveys conducted within a month after 9/11, as well as the 2015 poll after the events in San Bernardino. U.S. adults were least worried in 2000, when 24% expressed concern. Since 9/11, the low point in worry has been 28% in 2004.

Six in 10 Believe a Terrorist Attack Is Coming in the Next Several Weeks

Though less than half of Americans worry they will be a victim of terrorism, six in 10 say it is "very" or "somewhat likely" that an act of terror will take place in the U.S. in the next several weeks. This is down from the post-San Bernardino poll, when two in three Americans (67%) believed an attack was coming. Since Gallup first asked this question in the days after 9/11, the average percentage expecting a terrorist attack in the near future has been 55%.

Expectations are usually greater in the wake of a recent terrorist attack and reduced when there has been no recent terror activity. Anticipation of an attack was greatest in the month after 9/11, at 83% and 85% in separate polls in October 2001. By June 2005, expectations of terrorism in the U.S. had waned to 35% -- the lowest in Gallup's trend. But by the following month, expectations spiked again after coordinated bombings by suicide attackers on London's subway system and a double-decker bus, leaving 52 victims dead and hundreds wounded. Expectations of another attack spiked again, rising to 62%, after Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.

Bottom Line

Majorities of Americans over the years have expressed confidence in their government to protect its citizens against terrorism. However, the level of trust has varied and remains lower than it was in the years immediately after 9/11. While confidence in the government to protect against terrorism was high after the 9/11 attacks, the 2015 attack in San Bernardino had the opposite effect -- confidence in federal protection declined to a record low.

Trump campaigned bluntly as a candidate who would protect Americans from terrorism as well as other threats against their safety, promising strict measures that would keep the country safe. The president receives his highest approval rating for his handling of terrorism. But Americans' fears have fluctuated in the post-9/11 world and are susceptible to flaring up yet again when events occur at home or abroad.

Historical data are available in Gallup Analytics.
A Pinch of Salt: The election is over, I think, so what now?
An unannounced VIP added some star power to Oregon State Universitys commencement ceremony on Saturday: Oprah Winfrey.

The actress, talk show host and billionaire media mogul watched the ceremony from a box in the loge level at Reser Stadium, posed for a picture with OSU mascot Benny Beaver and made a celebratory video with Letso Maepa, who graduated with honors and earned dual bachelors degrees in economics and sociology.

Maepa came to Oregon State in 2013 from the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls, a boarding school for disadvantaged young women near Johannesburg, South Africa. Winfrey founded the school after a meeting with South African President Nelson Mandela.

Oregon States graduation was one of nine commencement ceremonies around the United States that Winfrey attended this year for her daughter girls, as she calls the students at her leadership academy.

It was a wonderful overture on her part, said Steve Clark, vice president for marketing and university relations at OSU.

Winfreys party, which also included Wild author Cheryl Strayed, had lunch at Big River Restaurant in downtown Corvallis before leaving town, Clark said.

Even though Winfrey was the highest-profile guest to attend an OSU graduation ceremony since first lady Michelle Obama gave the commencement address in 2012, the celebritys presence was not announced during the event in keeping with her wish to maintain a low profile.

That changed quickly, however, when pictures taken on the Corvallis campus began popping up on Winfreys Instagram account.

A still photo of the superstar posing with Benny Beaver garnered more than 72,000 likes on the social media platform, while a short video clip that captured a cap-and-gowned Maepa showing off her twin sheepskins as she and Winfrey chant Double diploma! Double diploma! got more than half a million views.

Oprah came quietly  at least that was her intent  to celebrate a student who had been part of her academy, Clark said. (But) she certainly added a lot of national attention and local attention to commencement.
Disappointing turnout : Cologne peace march against Islamic terrorism

Demonstration gegen islamistischen Terrorismus: Knapp 3000 Menschen nahmen teil. Foto: Martin Wein

Cologne The message was not as strong as organisers had hoped, with only 3000 people taking part in the peace march against Islamic terrorism in Cologne on Saturday.

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It was a strong slogan: Not with us! However, its pulling power on Saturday afternoon in Cologne was modest. Organisers estimate around 3,000 people took part in a peaceful demonstration against Islamic terrorism, starting in Heumarkt and continuing through Cologne city centre. Love for all  hate for no one or Terrorism has no religion were written on placards. Many German non-Muslims also came to express their solidarity with these messages.

Whoever joins the terrorists loses his place in the Islamic community. We need to make clear to our young that such people will be denounced in the same way as Neo-Nazis! cried the Duisburg Islamic scholar Lamya Kaddor, who had called for the peace march after the terror attack in Manchester. The pressure to disassociate themselves from such acts needs to grow within the Islamic community. The dividing line is between all those who advocate an open and pluralistic society and all others, said Kaddor. Her co-organiser, the peace activist Tarek Mohammed, emphasised that no terrorist could hope for 72 virgins in paradise or even for Islamic prayers for the dead.

It was a message that apparently only a minority of Muslims in Germany wanted to commit to.

The Ditib (the Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs) last week withdrew its support for the peace march because it said it was unreasonable to hold a rally during Ramadan. With 900 mosques and 800,000 members, the majority of Muslims in Germany belong to the Ditib.

Meral Sahin fought back tears at the side of the stage. The Cologne businesswoman has been the leader of the Keuptstrae lobby group in Mulheim since 2013 and was honoured as an ambassador for democracy and tolerance. I was hoping for a much stronger signal. A big chance has been wasted, she said. Kaddor also made no secret of her disappointment. Of course I had expected more participants, she told the GA. We will have to think about what that means.

This coming weekend, Muslims want to again take up the slogan of the peace march in Berlin. Perhaps there, more participants will declare Not with us.
MADISON  The speculation began within minutes of when President Trump, speaking in Waukesha and alluding to negotiations with an unspecified company, told Gov. Scott Walker he might get a very happy surprise very soon.

That surprise may well be Foxconn, a Taiwanese giant that assembles Apples iPhones and other electronics. No one will say for sure, but The Associated Press reported Thursday it had off-the-record confirmation that Foxconn is talking with Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. never comments on pending or potential opportunities  which is appropriate given how fragile and competitive such talks can be  so the potential surprise is still tightly wrapped inside a box awaiting a party that may never come.

This much is known, however. Foxconn is best known as one of Apples iPhone and iPad manufacturing partners. The company is likely to build a plant in the United States that would be used to build displays for everything from Internet of Things products to Apple devices.

As DigiTimes reported earlier this year, Foxconn would use a U.S. facility to manufacture small to medium displays for IoT applications, including automotive, medical care and mobile terminal displays. It could also be used to develop new screens for existing Apple products and televisions.

Foxconn CEO and Chairman Terry Gou said in January the company was planning to invest $7 billion in a U.S. facility, and company executive visited the White House a month or so ago.

Why would a company so large that entire cities have sprung up around its global factories have an interest in the United States and Wisconsin?

For starters, building a huge screen plant in the United States would fit well with Trumps push to create more domestic jobs. Trump has criticized foreign and domestic companies alike for not creating or keeping American manufacturing jobs, and he has threatened to increase tariffs on imports from countries that dont take heed.

The interest goes beyond politics, however. Foxconn would like to secure a larger share of American markets, particularly for products such as Sharp, a recently acquired subsidiary. Localizing screen production could help the company save on transport costs. The resulting publicity could also help sell more high-end Sharp-branded sets in the United States, the worlds second-biggest television market.

Those factors apply anywhere in the United States where Foxconn chooses to build. So, why Wisconsin?

The state has a manufacturing tradition that extends to electronic devices, equipment and components. In fact, electrical machinery of all types accounted for 9.4 percent of Wisconsin exports in the most recent year  about $2 billion in total. Power electronics and controls has been a Wisconsin specialty for a century or more.

Wisconsin is a state plugged into the Internet of Things through major companies such as GE Healthcare, Johnson Controls, Rockwell Automation and more. The Internet of Things is a term that describes using the internet to connect computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data via WiFi, cellular connections or other networks. It includes anything from your Fitbit wristband to coffeemakers and garage openers you can control through a smartphone, to smart buildings, connected cars and much more. Wisconsin companies large and small have been increasingly good at figuring it out.

The state has the foundation to produce skilled workers through the Wisconsin Technical College System and the UW System. The Department of Computer Sciences at the UW-Madison is one of the leading academic departments in the country, usually ranking in the top 12. There are strong engineering colleges in Madison, Milwaukee, Menomonie and Platteville.

There are logical plant sites available and an infrastructure in place that would enable a company the size of Foxconn to deliver its products to market.

Other states are reportedly in the hunt, most notably Michigan, which has a similar footprint to Wisconsin. Some states may be able to dig deeper into their own pockets to provide cash incentives. That means the presidents surprise could fizzle like a candle on a birthday cake.

At the same time, there is reason to believe Wisconsin has what it takes to compete, if not for Foxconn the next major company.
Moto G4 Play starts getting Android 7.1.1 Nougat update News oi -Samden Sherpa Many Moto G4 Play owners have reported that they have successfully received the update on their smartphones.

If you own a Moto G4 Play then there is some good news today. While Lenovo-owned Motorola had announced earlier to release Android Nougat update for the Moto G4 Play in June, the company has finally started pushing out the update for the smartphone.

And as per the reports, we are hearing that the Android 7.1.1 Nougat update has been rolled out in Brazil. However, as it is with any update the company will be rolling it out region wise. Thus Moto G4 Play owners in other countries should be receiving Nougat in the coming days.

Looking at the changelog, the update weighs in at around 640MB and the build number has now been moved to NPI26.48-8. Furthermore, the update brings the latest June 2017 Security Patch, New System icons, Duo Video calling application and other Android 7.1.1 features.

The update also brings the usual bug fixes and improvements in the smartphone.

Meanwhile, Motorola has instructed users to keep the battery at least 50 percent charged before updating to the new software. The company has also mentioned that device should be connected to a Wi-Fi network or LTE as data charges may be incurred while using mobile data.

Moto G4 Play users, who haven't received the notification about the update then they can simply go to the phone's Settings - About Phone - Software updates, and the phone will automatically download the update. The update should take around 10-15 minutes to get fully installed on the device.

If you own a Moto G4 Play and have got the update, do share with us about the new features and how is it different from the old one.

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Nokia 9 4GB RAM variant cancelled, tips HMDs FCC request letter News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu HMD Global plans to cancel the Nokia 9 variant with 4GB RAM.

HMD Global has recently filed with FCC (Federal Communications Commission) to end the 4GB RAM variant of the Nokia 9.

Back in the last week, there reports that the upcoming flagship smartphone has received the FCC certification. Though the database did not divulge a lot of details regarding the smartphone, it did reveal the presence of a 5.3-inch display and support for dual SIM cards. The latest FCC filing made by HMD Global reveals that the company has requested for a change in the model number from TA-1004 to TA-1012.

The FCC request letter further mentions that there is no difference in the build of the device, the circuitry or design. It also claims that the test results of the original Nokia 9 are representative and applicable.

Notably, this request letter from HMD Global comes after the 6GB RAM variant of the alleged Nokia 9 was spotted on the Geekbench database a few days back. From the new listing, it is speculated that the Nokia 9 might arrive with 6GB or 8GB RAM options. The previous listing of this smartphone showed 4GB RAM only.

Though the request letter from the company to change the model number point out at the cancellation of one of the alleged Nokia 9 variants, this information should be considered as a dose of skepticism until the device is announced.

For now, we know that the Nokia 9 might be launched in the third quarter of this year with the powerful Snapdragon 835 SoC. There are claims that the device could be the first smartphone to feature the Nokia OZO 3D audio technology. The Nokia 9 speculated to boot on Android 7.1.1 Nougat out of the box. HMD has already confirmed that the Nokia Android smartphones will receive the Android O and Android P updates. Also, it is possible for us to see the Nokia 9 featuring a 13MP dual lens rear camera setup.

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OnePlus 5 registrations cross 500,000 ahead of its launch News oi -Abhinaya Prabhu OnePlus 5 registrations are creating a record.

OnePlus 5 launch is just a few hours from now. And, the device is hitting the headlines as fans await its launch crazily.

In the last week, we saw that the OnePlus 5 registrations on JD.com in China crossed 300,000 in 48 hours. Now, the Chinese retailer JD.com (Jingding.com) shows 549,059 registrations (at the time of writing this post). The pre-registrations for OnePlus 5 began on June 14 and the first flash sale will happen on June 22 in China via the site.

Notably, this data comes from a single website. If we combine the registrations from India and other countries, the number will definitely be higher.

OnePlus 5 will be launched in India on June 22 that is two days after its global announcement. The device will go on sale starting from the same day via Amazon. The company will host pop-up events for the OnePlus 5 in cities such as Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad in the coming days.

With three days left for the launch of the OnePlus 5 in India, the company seems to have chosen the right time to broadcast the first television commercials for the upcoming flagship smartphone.

The TVC was publicly broadcast during the ICC Champions Trophy finals between India and Pakistan. The commercial reveals a few details about the OnePlus including its looks. The video shows the device in its full glory shedding light on every design aspect such as dual lens rear camera, curved edges, full metal body, etc.

Apart from showcasing the design of the smartphone it also reveals some of the key specs of the OnePlus 5 those were hitting the rumor mills lately.

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Incumbent telcos demands higher call termination charges for Reliance Jio News oi -Priyanka Airtel also said that an investment of Rs 2 lakh crore would be needed by 2020 to achieve the goal of creating infrastructure for Digital India.

The battle between telecom players is not going to end soon as incumbent players have recently demanded higher call termination charges from new entrant Reliance Jio.

In a meeting with inter- ministerial group (IMG) incumbent (Bharti Airtel, Idea, Vodafone) said that the current interconnection usage charges (IUC) is below cost and this need to be corrected.

The telcos also said that Jio's free offers had impacted the sector adversely.

Meanwhile, India's largest telecom players Bharti Airtel accused the new entrant of engaging in predatory prices.

Airtel also said that an investment of Rs 2 lakh crore would be needed by 2020 to achieve the goal of creating infrastructure for Digital India.

To recall, Reliance Jio recently said that telecom operators are not investing in new technology and instead leveraging their balance sheet for financial woes in the industry.

The company also said that incumbent telecom players need to raise funds by selling the stake at inter-ministerial group( IMG) meeting.

"Operators (excluding Jio) need to invest Rs. 1,25,000 crores, pay back debt and they need to invest in technology, as growth is happening in data...they can do this by selling a stake," said a senior Jio official who did not want to be named.

Stating that the financial stress being faced by operators was "their own creation", the official said the only policy intervention required is in form of reduction in GST rates, license fee, and USO levies. Lowering of these levies can generate Rs. 20,000-25,000 crores additional EBITDA for the industry, the Jio official said after coming out from the 45-minute meeting with the IMG.

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USS Fitzgerald Returns to Yokosuka

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS170617-02

Release Date: 6/17/2017 8:37:00 AM

From U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

PHILIPPINE SEA (NNS) -- USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), aided by tug boats, returned to Yokosuka at 6:15 p.m. this evening.

Approximately 16 hours earlier, it was involved in a collision with the Philippine-flagged merchant vessel ACX Crystal while operating about 56 nautical miles southwest of Yokosuka, Japan. Seven of Fitzgerald's crew remain missing.

Vice Adm. Joseph P. Aucoin, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, along with many family members, were on the pier when the ship arrived.

"This has been a difficult day," Aucoin said. "I am humbled by the bravery and tenacity of the Fitzgerald crew. Now that the ship is in Yokosuka, I ask that you help the families by maintaining their privacy as we continue the search for our shipmates."

"I want to highlight the extraordinary courage of the Fitzgerald Sailors who contained the flooding, stabilized the ship and sailed her back to Yokosuka despite the exceptionally trying circumstances," said Rear Adm. Charles Williams, commander, Task Force 70.

Shortly after the collision the U.S. made a request for support from the Japan Coast Guard (JCG), which were the first on scene and continues to be lead for search and rescue efforts. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ships JS Ohnami, JS Hamagiri, and JS Enshu were sent to join the JCG ships Izanami and Kano. USS Dewey (DDG 105) served as an escort for Fitzgerald and has also returned to Yokosuka. A U.S. P-8 Poseidon aircraft is working in concert with two JMSDF Helicopters and a JMSDF P-3 Orion aircraft to search the area. Names of the missing Sailors are being withheld until the families have been notified.

The collision affected Fitzgerald's forward starboard side above and below the water line, causing significant damage and associated flooding to two berthing spaces, a machinery space and the radio room, which damage control teams quickly began dewatering. Though the ship is back in Yokosuka it remains uncertain as to how long it will take to gain access to the spaces in order to methodically continue the search for the missing.

Once the ship arrived in Yokosuka, divers began inspecting the damage and developing a plan for repairs and inspection of the spaces.

Three patients required medical evacuation from the ship. One was Cmdr. Bryce Benson, Fitzgerald's commanding officer, who was transferred to U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka by a JMSDF helicopter. All three Sailors are awake and will remain under observation at the hospital until further notice. Other injured are being assessed.

The USS Fitzgerald Emergency Family Assistance Center will remain open for chaplain and counselor care indefinitely, 24/7, on the Command Readiness Center's 4th floor (across from the commissary) - in the same classroom where the Area Orientation Brief (AOB) is hosted.

Interested family should call DSN at: 315-243-1728, 1729, 1730, 1731, 1732, 1733, 1734, 1735 or Commercial at: +81-46-816-1728, 1729, 1730, 1731, 1732, 1733, 1734, 1735.

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Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

SOUTHWEST ASIA, June 18, 2017  U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 25 strikes consisting of 46 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.

Officials reported details of yesterday's strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports.

Strikes in Syria

In Syria, coalition military forces conducted 15 strikes consisting of 18 engagements against ISIS targets:

-- Near Dayr Az Zawr, a strike destroyed an ISIS wellhead.

-- Near Palmyra, two strikes destroyed six oil tanks and two tanks.

-- Near Raqqa, 12 strikes engaged 11 ISIS tactical units and destroyed 12 fighting positions, two tunnels and a vehicle bomb.

Strikes in Iraq

In Iraq, coalition military forces conducted 10 strikes consisting of 28 engagements against ISIS targets:

-- Near Qaim, three strikes engaged an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed 18 ISIS storage tanks, two vehicles and a front-end loader.

-- Near Kisik, two strikes engaged an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed a vehicle and a tactical vehicle.

-- Near Mosul, three strikes engaged three ISIS tactical units and destroyed six fighting positions, a supply cache and an artillery system.

-- Near Rawah, two strikes destroyed an ISIS bridge and a vehicle bomb.

June 15-16 Strikes

Additionally, 11 strikes were conducted in Syria and Iraq on June 15-16 that closed within the last 24 hours:

-- Near Raqqa, Syria, a June 15 strike destroyed six fighting positions, five ISIS staging areas, two command-and-control nodes, an ISIS headquarters and a supply cache; damaged 10 fighting positions and two vehicle bomb-making facilities.

-- Near Raqqa, Syria, eight June 16 strikes engaged four ISIS tactical units; destroyed four fighting positions, two ISIS headquarters, two vehicle bomb-making facilities and two vehicle bombs; and suppressed a sniper team.

-- Near Mosul, Iraq, two June 16 strikes engaged two ISIS tactical units, destroyed a rocket-propelled grenade system and a medium machine gun; damaged two ISIS supply routes and a fighting position.

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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Admiral Praises USS Fitzgerald's Crew, Announces Investigations

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, June 18, 2017  The response of the crew of the severely damaged USS Fitzgerald "was swift and effective, and I want to point out -- as we stand by the ship -- how proud I am of them," Navy Vice Adm. Joseph P. Aucoin, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, said today at a press conference in front of the stricken ship that's now moored in Yokosuka, Japan.

The U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald collided with the Philippine-flagged merchant vessel ACX Crystal in the Philippine Sea at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time, June 17, while operating about 64 miles southwest of Yokosuka, Japan, according to U.S. 7th Fleet news releases.

The Fitzgerald was able to return to its home port at Yokosuka under its own power aided by tug boats about 16 hours after the collision, according to a release.

Extensive Damage, Flooding

The Fitzgerald experienced extensive damage and flooding after the collision, Aucoin said in a news release issued today. The damage, he added, included a significant impact under the ship's pilothouse on the starboard, or right, side and a large puncture below the ship's waterline, opening the hull to the sea.

The ship, he continued, experienced rapid flooding of three large compartments that included a machinery room and two berthing areas for the ship's 116-member crew.

Aucoin said the Fitzgerald's commanding officer's cabin was also directly hit, trapping Navy Cmdr. Bryce Benson, the commander, inside. Benson is one of three injured sailors who were transferred by helicopter to U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka for treatment after the collision.

All three patients are alert and under observation at the hospital, he said.

Thanks Japanese for Assistance

Shortly after the collision the U.S. made a request for support from the Japanese Coast Guard, which was the first on scene, according to a release.

Several U.S. Navy aircraft, as well as Japanese Coast Guard and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopters, ships and aircraft were deployed to render assistance to the Fitzgerald, a release said.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships JS Ohnami, JS Hamagiri and JS Enshu were sent to join the JCG ships Izanami and Kano, according to a release. The U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Dewey served as an escort for the Fitzgerald and has also returned to Yokosuka.

The admiral expressed his "most heartfelt appreciation to our Japanese allies for their swift support and assistance."

Praises Crew's 'Heroic Efforts'

At today's press conference in Yokosuka, Aucoin saluted the Fitzgerald crew's "heroic efforts" that prevented the flooding from spreading, which could have caused the ship to founder or sink.

The crew, he continued, navigated the Fitzgerald into one of the busiest ports in the world with a magnetic compass and backup navigation equipment. One of two of the ship's shafts became locked, he added.

"Because of the tireless damage control efforts of a resolute and courageous team, the ship was able to make its way back to port safely on its own power last evening," Aucoin said in the release.

"The Fitzgerald crew responded professionally as all sailors are expected to fight the damage sustained to their ship. They are known as the "Fighting Fitz," and the crew lived up to that name," the admiral added.

Navy Finds 'A Number' of Missing Fitzgerald Sailors

Seven Fitzgerald sailors were reported unaccounted for after the collision, and the Japanese Coast Guard launched a search effort, according a release.

After the Fitzgerald returned to its home port in Yokosuka, search-and-rescue crews gained access to the ship's spaces that were damaged during the collision, according to a release.

At the press conference, Aucoin said the Navy "has found the remains of a number of our missing shipmates."

He added, "Our deepest sympathies are with the families of these sailors. Out of concern for the families and the notification process, I will decline to state how many we have found at this time. We owe that to the families and friends of these shipmates and hope you can respect this process."

The sailors' remains were transferred to Naval Hospital Yokosuka, Aucoin said, noting the "families are being notified and will be provided the support they need at this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts are prayers."

He said the names of the deceased will be released pending notification of next of kin.

In a Twitter message issued yesterday, President Donald J. Trump said his "thoughts and prayers [are] with the sailors of the USS Fitzgerald and their families. Thank you to our Japanese allies for their assistance."

Investigations

Aucoin said he's initiating a Judge Advocate General Manual investigation into the collision, and that he'll appoint a flag officer to lead that investigation.

There will also be a safety investigation, he added.

"We owe it to our families and the Navy to understand what happened," Aucoin said.

The U.S. Coast Guard is slated to take the lead on the marine casualty investigation, he said.

More information on any further investigations will be forthcoming, the admiral said.

"I will not speculate on how long these investigations will last," Aucoin added.

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The search for a new county administrator in Chippewa County begins Tuesday.

Well, maybe. It depends on what County Board supervisors want.

Officially, the countys Executive Committee will discuss recruiting a new county administrator at its meeting at 4 p.m. Tuesday in Room 302 of the county courthouse, 711 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls.

Current administrator Frank Pascarella on June 9 told the board he will not be seeking a contract renewal beyond Dec. 31, 2017.

After spending over 35 years in municipal and county government positions, it is time for me to seek other opportunities. Those opportunities include addressing some personal, business and family interests, he wrote.

The county switched to an administrator system in 2007. Before then, much of the work was done by county department leaders, including longtime County Clerk Jerry Dachel and Auditor George McDowell.

McDowell died in 2010, just days before he was expected to be named interim county administrator while Bill Reynolds was thought to be called away for extended military leave.

Pascarella is the countys third administrator, following Reynolds and Steve Kubacki, and began in 2012.

Pascarellas contract was last renewed in June 2015 for two years on an 8-6 board vote (one supervisors post was vacant).

Five of the eight supervisors who voted for the extension have since left the board. Two of the six supervisors voting against the extension have also been replaced on the board.

The Herald reported at the time of the contract renewal that Pascarellas annual salary for 2015 was $121,145 and would be $123,871 in 2016 and $126,658 in 2017.

Some supervisors in 2015 questioned whether the county needed a county administrator system. Then-County Board Chairman Paul Michels asked Jon Hochkammer of the Wisconsin Counties Association, to brief the board on its options in May of that year.

He said counties could choose to have an administrative coordinator, a county administrator or a county executive.

As of 2015, according to the UW-Extension Local Government Center, 35 of Wisconsins 72 counties had a administrative coordinator, 26 had a county administrator and 11 had county executives.

As of 2015, four counties had their county board chairs also serve as administrative coordinator. Another 15 had county clerks also serve in that role.

Larger counties, including Dane County, typically have county executives. Under state law, they have four-year terms.

Hochkammer said counties with county executives usually have more office staff than county administrators. County executives are required in the county where they work.

Counties can switch to a county executive system with a majority vote of the board or by referendum.

Hochkammer said in 2015 that county administrators typically are paid more than county executives, with good administrators more than paying their way.

The county administrator is the chief administrative officer for the county, the countys website says. The county administrator is responsible for administering and coordinating the overall operations of all the non-elected departments of the county and for providing staff assistance to the county board of supervisors and its officers, under the guidance and supervision of the county board.
Half of Nigeria food never reached Boko Haram victims: Government

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 5:35PM

Nigeria says half of government food aid meant to reach the victims of a militancy northeast of the country has not reached its destination.

A spokesman for acting president Yemi Osinbajo said late on Saturday that half of the trucks carrying food aid for people driven from their homes by Boko Haram Takfiri group have been diverted away from their destination.

"Over 1,000 trucks of assorted grains are now on course, delivering the grains intact to beneficiaries since the commencement of the present program as against the reported diversion of over 50 trucks in every 100 trucks sent to the northeast," said Laolu Akande in an emailed statement.

Osinbajo, acting in lieu of President Muhammadu Buhari who is in Britain on medical leave, launched a program on June 8 to reach out to around 2.7 million people identified as IDPs, or internally displaced, as a result of more than eight years of insurgency by Boko Haram.

Akande said the new system for distribution of food would significantly prevent the diversion of the humanitarian aid.

"The issue of diversion of relief materials, including food and related matters, which has dogged food delivery to the IDPs would be significantly curbed under the new distribution matrix," said the official, elaborating that 1,376 military personnel and 656 armed police would be tasked with guarding the food from where it its loaded to the trucks to the three main location where displaced people live, namely Borno, Adamawa and Yobe.

More than 20,000 people have been killed since Boko Haram started its devastating campaign in northeast Nigeria in 2009. The violence has claimed many lives in neighboring countries of Chad, Niger and Cameron. A large-scale government offensive has pushed the militants from key areas they used to control, although sporadic attacks have continued over the past months.

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Bahrain orders Qatari troops to leave as Persian Gulf row escalates: Report

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 4:4PM

Bahrain has reportedly ordered Qatari troops serving with a coalition allegedly fighting with the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group to leave the Persian Gulf country soon, as Qatar accuses its neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia, of imposing a crippling "siege" on the emirate.

According to an informed source, speaking on condition of anonymity to AFP on Sunday, the troops, who are part of the United States Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), headquartered in Bahrain, were asked by Manama to leave their base.

"The Bahrainis told the US general in command of the base that Qatari soldiers must leave," said that source, adding, "They are still in the base but likely to leave within the next two days."

Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates severed ties with Qatar on June 5, officially accusing Doha of supporting terrorism and destabilizing the region. Qatar, for its part, has slammed the measures as unjustified, saying they are based on false claims and assumptions.

In their apparent bid to secure US support and that of Israel, Riyadh, Manama, Cairo and Abu Dhabi suspended all land, air and sea traffic with Qatar, expelled its diplomats and ordered Qatari citizens to leave their countries.

To further pressure Qatar, Saudi Arabia has totally closed its land border with its tiny neighbor, through which much of Qatar's food supply crossed. Iran and Turkey are now providing Qatar's required food supplies. The Persian Gulf Arab states further gave Qataris two weeks to leave their countries and ordered home their own citizens living in Qatar.

The punitive measures against Qatar have drawn condemnation from rights groups, including Amnesty International. On June 10 and 13, the UK-based prominent rights group slammed the Saudi measures against Qatar, saying the diplomatic dispute has been toying with thousands of lives.

The coordinated move against Qatar is spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, which often manages to have its vassal states fall into line. Saudi Arabia itself is known as the main sponsor of the violent Wahhabi terrorists it has accused Qatar of supporting. Some analysts believe the Saudi anger is rather because Qatar acts more independently of Riyadh, including its relations with Iran.

On Wednesday, Qatar's Ministry of Defense said the country had signed a $12-billion deal with the United States to buy F-15 fighter jets from Washington.

The Qatari and US naval forces have also concluded a three-day joint military exercise in the Persian Gulf in the wake of Doha's ongoing tensions with other Arab countries.

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Several killed, wounded in attack on police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 7:39AM

Taliban militants have staged a deadly two-phase attack on a police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan.

Najib Danish, a spokesman for the Afghan Interior Ministry, said on Sunday that the attack on the police headquarters in Gardez City, the capital of Paktia Province, had started at around 6:30 am local time (0200 GMT).

A Taliban militant detonated a explosives planted in a car at the gate of the police headquarters, he said, adding that, after the explosion, which killed the assailant himself, four more attackers stormed the headquarters.

Afghan special forces were deployed to help the police counter the attack, Danish said.

However, two police officers were killed and five others were wounded, according to the Afghan official.

Other reports said at least five Afghan police officers were killed and at least 30 people, including 20 civilians, were wounded in the attack.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesman, claimed the attack left more than 100 police killed and wounded.

Afghanistan is rife with violence, and attacks by Taliban militants, and more recently by Daesh terrorists, frequently occur in the country.

This is despite the presence of thousands of US-led forces, who have been in Afghanistan since an invasion in 2001. That invasion toppled a Taliban regime in the country.

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Taliban Storms Afghan Police Compound, Kill Five Officers

RFE/RL June 18, 2017

Taliban fighters stormed a police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan on June 18 after striking it with two suicide car bombs, killing at least five police officers, officials said.

Sardar Wali Tabasim, spokesman for the provincial police chief in Paktia Province, said another eight police officers were wounded in the attack. Tabasim said one of the attackers detonated his suicide vest inside the compound, while two others were shot dead by police, and one was still fighting.

A doctor at a nearby hospital said more than a dozen wounded civilians had been brought in for treatment. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief reporters.

Najib Danish, deputy spokesman for the Interior Ministry, confirmed the attack in Gardez, the provincial capital of Paktia Province.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement sent to media.

One of the explosions was so strong it shattered windows up to 2 kilometers from the attack site, said Abdullah Hsrat, spokesman for the provincial governor.

The city of Gardez was targeted in another Taliban attack in May, when militants stormed a bank branch, killing two policemen and leaving 31 people injured.

Insurgent groups like the Taliban and Islamic State have launched a series of attacks across Afghanistan in recent weeks.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a mosque in Kabul on June 15.

A massive truck bombing and later suicide attacks left hundreds dead and wounded at the end of last month and beginning of June, raising political tensions for the Afghan government, which is struggling to combat rising violence and corruption.

Thousands of international troops remain in the country to train and assist Afghan security forces as well as carry out counterterrorism missions.

American defense officials say in coming weeks they will decide whether to send between 3,000 to 5,000 more troops as requested by military commanders.

Based on reporting by AP, AFP, dpa, and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/taliban-afghanistan-storm- police-compound-police-killed/28561197.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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Bahrain Kicks Out Qatari Troops Partaking in Anti-Daesh Combat

Sputnik News

21:19 18.06.2017

The authorities of Bahrain have ordered that Qatari troops stationed in the nearby island nation exit the country within 48 hours. The Qatari troops were serving as part of the US-led coalition force against Daesh.

Qatar had first sent troops to serve under the US Navy Central Command (NAVCENT), which is headquartered in Bahrain, in 2014.

The exact number of Qatari military personnel stationed in Bahrain was not reported.

"Bahrain told the US commanding general that the Qatari military personnel must leave," a source told RIA Novosti.

He added that, "They [Qatari troops] are on the base right now, but are likely to leave within the next two days."

On June 5, a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, cut diplomatic ties with Qatar and embargoed all sea, air and land traffic to and from the country. They accused Doha of supporting terrorist groups, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, as well as interfering in other countries' domestic affairs.

Several other states in the region scaled back diplomatic relations with the country.

The Qatari Foreign Ministry rejected accusations of Doha's interference in other countries' domestic affairs and expressed regret over the decision of the Gulf States to cut off diplomatic ties with it.

 Sputnik

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Taliban Claims Responsibility for Attack on Police HQs in Afghanistan - Reports

Sputnik News

08:37 18.06.2017(updated 08:43 18.06.2017)

The Taliban terrorist group, banned in Russia, claimed responsibility for the suicide attack on the police headquarters in the Afghan eastern province of Paktia, local media reported Sunday.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The information was reported by Khaama news agency.

Earlier in the day, an improvised explosive device was detonated near the parking area of the police headquarters, which allowed a group of militants to launch the attack.

According to Interior Ministry Spokesman Najibullah Danish, the police clashed with the attackers, who tried to enter the compound, killing three of them. Danish added that two police officers were killed.

Earlier this month, the Taliban claimed responsibility for killing three US soldiers in eastern Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has long been facing instability due to continued fighting between the government forces and the Taliban radical movement, which seized vast territories in the Afghan rural areas. Besides, the instability in the country prompted the emergence of the local cells of other extremist organizations such as Daesh.

 Sputnik

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Colombia's FARC Armed Group Denies Involvement in Bogota Explosion

Sputnik News

07:38 18.06.2017

FARC have denied their involvement in the recent explosion at the Centro Andino shopping center in Bogota.

MEXICO CITY (Sputnik)  The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the largest armed group in the country, have denied their involvement in the recent explosion at the Centro Andino shopping center in Bogota.

Earlier in the day, a blast occurred in a toilet room on the second floor of the mall. Bogota Mayor Enrique Penalosa said three women were killed in the explosion, one of them was the French national, while nine people were injured. According to Penalosa, it was a terrorist attack.

"Solidarity with today's victims in Bogota. This act could have been done only by those who want to close the path of peace and reconciliation," FARC leader Rodrigo Londono Echeverri wrote on Twitter.

Earlier on Sunday, Colombia's second-largest guerrilla movement  National Liberation Army (ELN)  also denied its involvement in the explosion.

FARC was formed in 1964 as the military wing of Colombia's Communist Party. The half-century war between the FARC and the Colombian government claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. Attempts by Bogota to negotiate a peace deal successfully ended in 2016, when a peace treaty was signed in November and then approved by the Colombian parliament in December. The disarmament of the FARC began in February.

 Sputnik

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Colombia's ELN Armed Group Denies Involvement in Bogota Shopping Center Blast

Sputnik News

06:28 18.06.2017

Colombia's National Liberation Army has denied its involvement in the recent explosion at the Centro Andino shopping center.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Colombia's National Liberation Army (ELN), the country's second largest armed group, has denied its involvement in the recent explosion at the Centro Andino shopping center in Bogota.

Earlier in the day, a blast occurred in a toilet room on the second floor of the mall. According to Bogota Mayor Enrique Penalosa, three women were killed in the explosion, one of them was the French national. About 10 people were injured.

"The ELN never would have never carried out actions directed against the civilian population," the group wrote on Twitter.

The guerrilla movement condemned the attack and called on the government to conduct a thorough investigation to identify those responsible.

The ELN is the second largest armed group after the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), estimated to have between 1,500 and 3,000 fighters. The United States considers it a terrorist organization.

On February 8, the Colombian government and the ELN started peace talks, while the agreement to begin the dialogue was reached in mid-January.

In early April, Bogota and the ELN insurgents agreed to carry out humanitarian mine clearing operations following the first round of peace talks in Ecuador.

 Sputnik

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With Bodies Recovered, US Navy Calls Off Search for Missing Sailors Aboard USS Fitzgerald

By Ken Bredemeier June 18, 2017

The U.S. has called off its search for seven missing sailors after finding bodies in the sleeping compartments of the USS Fitzgerald, the Navy destroyer that collided with a massive merchant vessel off the coast of Japan early Saturday.

"The search and rescue is over," US 7th Fleet commander Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin told reporters Sunday. U.S. authorities tacitly acknowledged there were no survivors, although Aucoin declined to say how many bodies had been recovered until relatives of the dead sailors are notified.

Aucoin said that sea water gushed into sleeping compartments and that part of the ship's right side was caved in.

"The damage was significant. There was a big gash under the water," Aucoin said at the Yokosuka naval base, home of the U.S. 7th Fleet. He spoke with the docked Fitzgerald behind him, after tugboats towed it ashore in the hours after the collision 104 kilometers southwest of Yokosuka, in a busy shipping channel.

He said "a significant portion of the crew was sleeping" when the destroyer collided with a Philippine-flagged container ship, the ACX Crystal. Aucoin said the Fitzgerald is salvageable but that repairs will likely take months.

"Hopefully less than a year," Aucoin said. "You will see the USS Fitzgerald back."

There was no immediate explanation for the collision.

Aucoin said, "I'm not going to speculate on what happened.... Hopefully we'll get those answers, but I don't have them right now."

Injured sailors

Three other U.S. crew members were injured in the accident, including the vessel's commanding officer, Bryce Benson, with all of them undergoing treatment. Aucoin said, without elaborating, that Benson "is lucky to be alive."

Benson was in stable condition with a head injury. The two other sailors suffered cuts and bruises.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a sympathy message to U.S. President Donald Trump, saying, "We are struck by deep sorrow. I express my heartfelt solidarity to America at this difficult time."

On Saturday, Trump said in a Twitter message, "Thoughts and prayers with the sailors of USS Fitzgerald and their families. Thank you to our Japanese allies for their assistance."

The ACX Crystal sailed into Tokyo Saturday afternoon with minor damage to its bow. None of the 20-member crew on the Philippine-flagged container ship was reported injured.

Investigation

Aucoin said the Navy will launch an investigation into the collision because "we owe it to our families and the Navy to understand what happened."

"Unfortunately, we don't have the details regarding the conditions during the final moments, but hope that the investigation may shed some light on that matter," Aucoin said.

The Fitzgerald and the ACX Crystal  a ship nearly four times the size of the destroyer  collided early Saturday. The 29,000-ton Philippine ship is 222 meters long, while the 8,315-ton Navy destroyer is 154 meters long.

The U.S. Navy said the collision occurred about midship on the starboard side, damaging two sailor berthing stations, a machinery room and a radio room.

"This was a severe emergency, but the ship's crew was swift and responsive and I can't tell you how proud I am of the crew for what they did to save the ship," Aucoin said.

According to Jiji Press news agency, the ACX Crystal captain said his ship was "sailing in the same direction as the U.S. destroyer and then collided."

Such collisions between two ships are rare.

Yukata Saito of the Japanese coast guard said conditions were clear at the time of the collision.

"The volume of ships is heavy in this area and there have been accidents before," Saito told Japan's public broadcaster NHK.

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Taliban Militants Storm Afghan Police Post

By Ayaz Gul June 18, 2017

Taliban insurgents have stormed a provincial police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan, killing five people and wounding at least 20.

The raid early Sunday in Gardez, capital of Paktia province, began with a suicide car blast at the entrance to the heavily guarded facility. Video showed the massive explosion flattened several blocks of the facility

That allowed a group of heavily armed insurgents to force their way into the compound, said Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danish.

A Taliban spokesman claimed the attack "killed and wounded more than 100 security personnel."

US citizen kidnapped in Kabul

Meanwhile a Kabul police official, told VOA an African, from an unidentified country was kidnapped by gunmen early Sunday in Kabul. Earlier news reports said the kidnapped man was an American citizen.

Afghan television said the abducted man was working on a World Bank-related project for the Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, irrigation and livestock.

Government officials have not commented on the reports.

A Finish woman kidnapped last month and two university professors, an Australian and an American, taken way at gunpoint last August are still being held hostage. Both the kidnapping incidents occurred in the Afghan capital.

Dozens of Kabul businessmen also have complained about a rise in kidnapping for ransom incidents in during the past year.

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Judicial Watch Applauds U.S. Supreme Court Decision to Hear Case against Arbitrary Redistricting Methods Proposed for Wisconsin

Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5172

WASHINGTON, June 19, 2017 /Christian Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch today praised the decision by the United States Supreme Court to stay a lower court's ruling and to hear a case concerning gerrymandering in Wisconsin. Judicial Watch and the Allied Educational Foundation (AEF) filed an amici curiae brief in an effort to convince the high court to reject the arbitrary method of drawing Wisconsin's electoral districts adopted in Beverly R. Gill, et al. v. William Whitford, et al. (No. 16-1161). The lower court struck down Wisconsin's 2011 redistricting plan on the grounds that it was an unconstitutional gerrymander. Judicial Watch asked the Court to take up the case and overturn that ruling.

"Leftists want the courts to overturn district lines if not enough Democrats win," said Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton (photo). "We're happy that the Supreme Court will now have a chance to rule that Democrats -- or any political party -- will not have a constitutional right to win elections."

Judicial Watch and AEF argued in their joint brief against the ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, which relied in part on the use of a test for gerrymandering known as the "the efficiency gap," which focuses on a purely hypothetical estimate of what each party "should" win in a "fair" election.

Judicial Watch and AEF point out that the test amounts to court-ordered proportional representation and that this will not prevent gerrymandering:

[P]roportional representation has nothing to do with preventing gerrymandering. Deviations from proportional representation, however defined, may occur for any number of reasons other than gerrymandering, including the political views or missteps or personal qualities of the candidates of one of the parties. The absence of proportional representation does not uniquely identify gerrymanders. In any event, proportional representation is not required by the Constitution.

Judicial Watch plans to file another amicus curiae brief as the case moves forward in the Supreme Court.

The Allied Educational Foundation is a charitable and educational foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life through education. In furtherance of that goal, the Foundation has engaged in a number of projects, which include, but are not limited to, educational and health conferences domestically and abroad. AEF has partnered frequently with Judicial Watch to fight government and judicial corruption and to promote a return to ethics and morality in the nation's public life.

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US Fighter Jet Downs Syrian Warplane

By VOA News June 18, 2017

A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane Sunday after it reportedly bombed U.S.-backed fighters battling Islamic State.

The Pentagon said Sunday a Syrian SU-22 dropped bombs on coalition-partnered fighters near the town of Tabqah.

A U.S. Super Hornet immediately responded and shot down the Syrian plane. There is no word on the pilots fate or any other casualties.

Earlier, Syrian forces attacked coalition fighters in Ja'Din, wounding a number of fighters and driving them from the town. Coalition aircraft stopped the pro-regime forces from advancing on Ja'Din.

The coalition contacted Russian commanders to set up a "de-confliction line" to prevent the fighting from worsening.

The Pentagon says its actions Sunday were within the rules of engagement and collective self-defense of coalition forces.

The Pentagon says the coalition's mission in Syria and Iraq is to defeat Islamic State.

"The coalition does not seek to fight the Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat."

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Secretary General marks deployment of NATO battlegroups during visit to Latvia

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

19 Jun. 2017

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg paid tribute to Allied forces during a ceremony on Monday (19 June 2017) to mark the deployment of the NATO multinational battlegroup in Latvia. It is one of four now fully deployed to the eastern part of the Alliance in response to the changed security environment. Canada is leading the NATO battlegroup in Latvia, Germany and the United Kingdom are leading similar forces in Lithuania and Estonia, while the United States commands a NATO battlegroup in Poland.

Alongside Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis, Latvian Defence Minister Raimonds Bergmanis, and Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, Mr. Stoltenberg addressed the multinational force, which will serve alongside Latvian troops to defend the Alliance and deter aggression. The Canadian-led force based at Adazi military camp will include troops and equipment from Albania, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain. The Secretary General said the four battlegroups send a powerful message that NATO stands as one.

Mr. Stoltenberg stressed that the NATO battlegroups are also proof of the enduring strength of the transatlantic bond, with soldiers from North America and Europe serving together to keep the Alliance safe.

Mr Stoltenberg then held talks in Riga with Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis, Prime Minister Maris Kucinskis and the Speaker of the Parliament, Inara Murniece. The Secretary General will have discussions on Tuesday (20 June 2017) with senior government leaders in Lithuania. He will also visit the German led battlegroup there and watch it and other NATO forces take part in Exercise Iron Wolf.

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Suspected Boko Haram militants kill 16 people in northeast Nigeria

Iran Press TV

Mon Jun 19, 2017 1:47PM

At least 16 people have been killed when suspected members of the Takfiri Boko Haram terrorist group detonated their explosive vests near a camp of displaced people in the volatile northeastern state of Borno, the birthplace of the terror outfit.

Nigeria's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said in a statement that the bomb attacks occurred close to the Dalori camp at Kofa village, located nearly 10 kilometers southeast of the provincial capital Maiduguri, at about 08:45 p.m. local time (1945 GMT) on Sunday.

According to Abdulkadir Ibrahim, the spokesman of the NEMA, two female terrorists first attempted to enter the camp but were thwarted by security personnel of the camp.

However, "two other female bombers detonated their explosives at the adjoining Dalori Kofa village, where they killed 16 people," he added in the statement.

Borno state police spokesman Victor Isuku gave a more detailed account of the attacks in his initial report of the incident, saying the first assailant detonated her explosives "near a mosque", claiming the lives of seven people, and the second one blew herself up "in a house", killing six people. He added that at least 11 people also sustained injuries in the blasts and were taken to hospital.

However, Ibrahim updated Isuku's report, saying three of the wounded succumbed to their injuries later on. "The 16 does not include the bombers," he added.

Isuku revised the number of attackers up to five from four, and maintained that other three assailants, not directly involved in the blasts, were also killed.

No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attacks but they bear the hallmark of the Boko Haram Takfiri terrorist group, as it in the past employed radicalized females on multiple occasions to conduct bombing attacks against people or army troops.

Dalori is one of the largest camps allocated to internally displaced people (IDP) in the remote region and Boko Haram terrorists had previously tried to hit the camp. Back in January last year, Takfiri militants killed at least 85 people as they rampaged through the communities near Dalori. They burned down houses and killed people either by gunfire or by detonating explosives.

The Sunday attack is the deadliest one in Nigeria since June 8, when Boko Haram militants killed 14 people in yet another mixture of gunfire and blasts in the Jiddari Polo area of Maiduguri.

In recent months, army troops and civilian fighters in Nigeria have managed to foil many bomb attacks involving terrorists wearing explosive vests before the assailants were able to reach heavily-populated targets and detonate their bombs of their own accord.

Last December, however, two women, with the Boko Haram, killed 57 people and injured 177, including 120 children, after they detonated their explosive vests at a bustling market at Madagali, a town in the neighboring province of Adamawa.

On December 24, 2016, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, who came to power in 2015 with a pledge to eradicate Boko Haram, announced that the army had "crushed" the terror group a day earlier by retaking its last key bastion, deep inside the thick Sambisa Forest in Borno.

The group, however, has resorted to sporadic shooting and bombing attacks in the northeast of the African country, spreading panic among the local residents.

Boko Haram, whose name means "Western education is forbidden," has claimed responsibility for a number of deadly terror attacks in Nigeria since the beginning of their militancy in 2009, which has so far claimed the lives of at least 20,000 people and made more than 2.7 million displaced.

The United Nations has warned that areas affected by Boko Haram face a humanitarian crisis.

Back in February 2016, four nations of the Lake Chad Basin - Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Nigeria - launched a campaign, together with a contingent from Benin, to confront the threat from Boko Haram terrorists in the region.

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Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines launch joint operation against Daesh

Iran Press TV

Mon Jun 19, 2017 9:50AM

Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have launched a joint maritime operation against Daesh-linked militants holed up in a southern Philippine city.

An ongoing battle between the Daesh-linked Maute group and Philippines military in Marawi City in the Philippines has sparked concern in Malaysia and Indonesia that it might force the group members to flee the area and attempt to get into neighboring countries.

The Southeast Asian neighbors defense ministers and military chiefs agreed on Monday in the Indonesian city of Tarakan to intensify their efforts in the fight against the Daesh-linked Takfiri extremist militants by launching the "trilateral coordinated maritime patrol."

The meeting of the three neighbors followed up on an earlier agreement in May 2016 to conduct joint patrols and share intelligence, after a series of kidnaps of foreigners by the Abu Sayyaf Takfiri terrorists, who are based mainly on the southernmost Philippine islands and who beheaded several victims after ransoms were not paid.

The three countries agreed on Monday to set up coordinated maritime command centers in Tarakan for Indonesia, Tawau for Malaysia, and Bongao for the Philippines and collect information and arrange patrols from these locations.

They also agreed to establish designated sea lanes for boats and ships in the seas along the countries borders to prevent the Daesh-aligned militants in the southern Philippines from fleeing to neighboring countries.

The recent agreement came amid recent clashes in Marawi, which have raised fears that the mainly Middle East-based Daesh militant group is seeking to extend its reach into Southeast Asia.

"The militants might flee the Philippines and be forced to cross the border into Indonesia," Tarakan Air Force base chief Colonel Didik Krisyanto said on Sunday.

Fighting has been going on for weeks between Philippine government forces and gunmen flying the black flags of Daesh.

Meanwhile, in neighboring Indonesia, as well, Daesh has a confirmed presence and Indonesian officials say the group has created terror sleeper cells in the country.

Radical militants have launched several terrorist attacks in the country over the past years. The latest incident were two bombing attacks at a bus station in eastern Jakarta on May 24, which killed three police officers. The attacks were claimed by Daesh.

Daesh has been suffering increasing losses in Iraq and Syria, losing the territory it had occupied overrun in the two Arab countries.

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Hydropower A Hot Topic In Central Asia, And Not Just From The Usual Suspects

Bruce Pannier June 19, 2017

There has been a lot of talk about hydropower in Central Asia since the start of May, and not just from the usual quarters.

Perhaps it's just officials watching the melting snows of spring and envisioning lights coming on in homes and factories across their countries, but hydropower seems to be a hot topic lately.

Of course, it's always been a big issue in mountainous Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, where the immense potential of hydropower has barely been tapped and the great need of the two cash-strapped governments for additional energy makes hydropower especially attractive.

But the really big talk about hydropower in recent days is coming from (drum roll please) ... Uzbekistan.

That's right, the country that for years has continually raised objections -- and occasionally made some threats -- over the construction of large hydropower plants (HPP) in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan has announced it will spend some $4.3 billion on developing hydropower over roughly the next decade.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyaev announced at the start of May that Uzbekistan would place a new emphasis on developing renewable energy resources.

At the start of June, Mirziyaev put his signature on the program to develop hydropower energy in Uzbekistan.

The program aims at constructing 18 new HPPs and modernizing 14 existing HPPs by 2021 at a cost of some $2.65 billion.*

Reports in Uzbek media did not provide many details about the size of the HPPs (mini, small, medium, or large) or their location, though there was least one hint from a trip Mirziyaev made to the southern Syrdarya Province in May when he said a new 15 MW small HPP would be built there.

Reports on the long-term hydroenergy program also mentioned there were other hydropower projects to be realized by 2030 that would cost an additional $1.7 billion.

According to Uzbekistan's program, once all these hydropower projects are completed, hydropower will account for 15.8 percent of the country's energy balance. (It currently accounts for 12.7 percent.)

Before we move on, that's $2.65 billion and $1.7 billion, or $4.35 billion in total, for Uzbekistan's hydroenergy development program.

Remember that number: $4.35 billion. It will be important further down.

Tajikistan is speeding ahead with construction of the Roghun HPP, a massive structure that when finished will generate some 3,600 MW and should make the country not only totally energy independent but allow it to export electricity.

There is need for haste.

Former Uzbek President Islam Karimov, whose death was announced on September 2, was a fierce opponent of construction of the Roghun HPP and the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP in Kyrgyzstan.

Mirziyaev's government has not elucidated its policy toward these large HPPs and, in the absence of a clear Uzbek position on Roghun, Tajikistan moved ahead. Already on October 29, it had blocked part of the Vakhsh River so construction of the Roghun HPP could begin in earnest.

On May 25, Bahodur Akramzoda, deputy chairman of the Majlisi Namoyandagon's committee for economics and the budget, said it is possible that three of the planned six units of the Roghun project could be launched before the end of 2018.

The Italian company Salini Impregilo signed a deal with Tajikistan to finish the Roghun HPP in July 2016. (Construction was started in 1976 when Tajikistan was a Soviet republic but had progressed little by the time the U.S.S.R. disintegrated in 1991 when all work effectively stopped.)

Mirziyaev has not commented directly on Roghun, but as RFE/RL's Kazakh Service, known locally as Azattyq, noted in a recent report, then-Uzbek Prime Minister Mirziyaev responded back in July 2016 to a Tajik deal with Salini Impregilo by sending a note to the Tajiks expressing dissatisfaction with the plan and saying Tajikistan could solve its energy problems without the Roghun HPP.

On June 1, media outlets quoted Boriy Alihanov, the deputy speaker of Uzbekistan's Oliy Majlis, the lower house of parliament, as saying Uzbekistan was for rational and fair use of transborder water sources.

"This also concerns Roghun," Alihanov said, which really doesn't clarify Uzbekistan's position on the HPP.

And for the record, work has been under way for weeks on repairing and modernizing Tajikistan's Nurek HPP that currently provides some 70 percent of the country's electricity.

The World Bank provided a loan of $225.7 million for the project with other money coming from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and Eurasian Development Bank.

Kyrgyzstan seems to have given up on the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP for now. The HPP would provide an additional 1,900 MW of electricity but without any foreign investors at present, the estimated $3 billion cost is prohibitively high for Kyrgyzstan.

Instead, Kyrgyzstan is devoting its attention firstly to overhauling the Toktogul HPP, which provides about 40 percent of the country's electricity.

On May 13, Prime Minister Sooronbay Jeenbekov attended the launch of a project for the reconstruction and modernization of the Toktogul HPP. When completed, it will add 240 MW to the HPP's electricity output and will cost some $120 million.

The work at Toktogul is badly needed as three of the four turbines at the HPP went out of commission in December 2015, temporarily causing electricity shortages to parts of the country.

In mid-May, the government also announced a tender for construction of 14 small HPPs. The HPPs would have capacities of between 3 to 20 MW and would be located, mainly, in remote and mountainous areas of the country.

Duishenbek Zilaliev, the chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy, and Resource Management, pointed out in a recent interview that such HPPs are especially valuable to mountain communities that could find themselves temporarily cut off from the rest of Kyrgyzstan by avalanches and landslides.

There are doubts after the problems with the Kambar-Ata-1 HPP that Kyrgyzstan would be able to attract investors.

But the small HPPs are relatively inexpensive, and on June 15 at least one news source said there were already six companies interested in the projects, though only one was a foreign company.

Kazakhstan has not announced any plans for new HPPs recently, but Astana is hosting an event called EXPO-2017 that is focused on renewable, or green power sources, including hydropower.

Now back to the $4.35 billion Uzbekistan is spending on its hydroenergy program.

As mentioned, construction of Kambar-Ata-1 is estimated to cost some $3 billion and Roghun is estimated to cost some $3.9 billion.

The money Uzbekistan is spending on domestic HPPs is more than enough to build either Kambar-Ata- or Roghun, but Tashkent has not mentioned any plans to take part in the neighbors' HPPs, though both countries have invited Uzbekistan to do so several times.

* Financing of this $2.65 billion is interesting in that it reflects the current general interest in foreign/international investment in Central Asia. Uzbek financial institutions are responsible for coming up with most of the money, but $572.8 million will come as loans and credits from the China Eximbank, $181.1 million from the Islamic Development Bank, $77.3 million from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and $98.4 million from the Asian Development Bank.

The views expressed in this blog post do not necessarily reflect the views of RFE/RL.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/central-asia-hydropower -uzbekistan-roghun-nurek-/28564134.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 Wins Tender for Ka-52K Helicopter Supplies to Egypt

Sputnik News

13:59 19.06.2017(updated 16:19 19.06.2017)

Russia has won the tender for supplies of Ka-52K helicopters to Egypt for Mistral helicopter carriers, the head of Russia's Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation said Monday.

LE BOURGET (France), (Sputnik)  The Ka-52K is a naval modification of the Ka-52 Alligator reconnaissance and combat helicopter designed to destroy armored vehicles, perform fire support operations, and conduct patrol and escort missions.

Moscow and Cairo are also negotiating deliveries of Russian choppers intended for Egyptian Mistral-class helicopter carriers.

"Russia won that tender. It is important now to agree on the technical configuration," Director Dmitry Shugaev told reporters at the Paris Air Show.

On May 5, the CEO of the company Russian Helicopters, Andrey Boginsky, said Egypt would decide whether to buy Russia's shipborne Ka-52K Katran combat helicopters for Egypt's Mistral helicopter carriers by the end of May.

Egypt bought two French-made Mistral warships in 2016. Initially, France produced the helicopter carriers for Russia, however, Paris refused to deliver them to Russia in the light of the increased tensions over the Ukrainian crisis.

 Sputnik

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Cameroon Detains 30 of Its Soldiers Fighting Boko Haram

By Moki Edwin Kindzeka June 19, 2017

Cameroon has detained 30 of its soldiers fighting Boko Haram in the northern part of the country. The Defense Ministry says the soldiers abandoned their positions in a protest over pay and working conditions.

Military officials in Cameroon say the incident happened earlier this month. Several dozen Cameroonian soldiers erected barricades near the country's border with Nigeria and asked to be immediately replaced. The soldiers were part of the Multinational Joint Task Force fighting Boko Haram since 2015.

Colonel Didier Badjeck, spokesperson of Cameroon's military, said the protest was "unacceptable." He said so far 30 of the soldiers who took part have been arrested.

He said the minister of defense gave instructions that the protesters should be arrested so that this bad memory can be forgotten. He said he does not understand what went wrong in the minds of the soldiers to abandon the commitment and oath they took to defend the nation with honor and loyalty even to the ultimate sacrifice.

Badjeck says investigations are ongoing to fish out those who may have masterminded the unrest.

Military officers who did not join the protest tell VOA the soldiers were disgruntled that they are not receiving the same allowances as their peers serving in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Central African Republic, who they said get an additional bonus of $500 per month.

But Cameroon's government says soldiers fighting Boko Haram are not U.N. peacekeepers and are not entitled to the same allowances. The force fighting Boko Haram is a regional mission organized through the Lake Chad Basin Commission.

Colonel Akoutou Mvondo, Cameroon's director of military justice, says Cameroon has paid salaries and allowances to soldiers sent to the front in the north, but he declined to say how much.

He said the military hierarchy took time to explain to these soldiers that their allowances and bonuses were to be paid from contributions of member states and that while waiting for the contributions, each country would pay its soldiers taking part in the war, according to agreements made with its soldiers.

Mvondo said soldiers who took part in the protest may be charged with acts of revolt or rebellion under the military justice code, pending results of the investigation.

The 8,700-strong regional force fighting Boko Haram is led by Nigeria and includes troops from Cameroon, Niger, Chad and Benin.

Donors, including Nigeria and the European Union, have pledged at least $250 million to fight the insurgents but that remains well short of the force's original projected budget of $700 million.

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Uganda Hosting Donor Summit to Raise $8B for Refugees

By Halima Athumani June 19, 2017

This week, Uganda welcomes U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other high-level international guests and donors for the two day Refugee Solidarity Conference (Thursday 6/22 and Friday 6/23). The conference in Kampala hopes to raise $8 billion to support refugees in Uganda for the next four years.

At the border separating Uganda from South Sudan, exhausted women and children arrive daily, hungry and dehydrated. Aid workers give them fortified biscuits.

Uganda hosts 1.2 million refugees from at least five African countries. Nearly one million have fled the conflict in South Sudan, and most have arrived in the past year. The local food supply is stretched to the limit.

The U.N. World Food Program was forced to cut food rations to refugees last month, says WFP country representative El Khidir Daloum.

"Yes, we have been forced to reduce the distribution for the month of May by 50 percent, but that is mainly due to the physical availability of food and arrival of food in the country," he said.

Funding is also inadequate.

The United Nations and 57 other aid organizations working in northern Uganda, appealed for $1.4 billion to provide food and shelter this year, but only 18 percent of the funds has been received.

Amnesty International researchers visited the refugee settlements in Uganda and Deputy Regional Director Michelle Kagari says the refugees have already suffered greatly.

"There is one woman who has nine children, her and her children witness their father being killed, not to mention the trauma of fleeing the Equatoria's," she said. When they arrived in Uganda, because there is no capacity for them to get additional support, she is now supposed to build a shelter herself, find food for the children, deal with the trauma of the children."

Uganda is known for its progressive approach to refugees, there are no refugee camps, but settlements where refugees build round mud huts and get small plots of land to farm. They are also allowed to work in Uganda.

But the massive influx from South Sudan, as many as 2,000 people a day during the past year, is taking a toll on the host communities.

Uganda is hosting this week's Refugee Solidarity Summit in an urgent plea for help says Uganda State Minister for Refugees Musa Ecweru.

"A district that was supposed to host 300,000 people is now hosting 600 to 700,000 people. In that district, they are competing for trees that are used as fuel for energy," said Ecweru. "They are competing for drugs that are supposed to be used by the host communities in the health centers. ... So there are so many things that are under pressure, so we want the international community to support us and lift the pressure."

Food security is a particular concern given the hunger and famine in South Sudan and drought in East Africa.

At the Maaji refugee settlement 25-year-old Jennifer Fonne is eight months pregnant and struggling to have two meals a day.

"As you can see, children are crying here because of hunger, we are not getting anything to buy for our children food. As I have three children, but food is not enough for us. We are just eating green vegetables, but no proteins," she said.

Back at he border, the scene is the same. More families arrive, sweating in the scorching heat, carrying their belongings.

The government says Uganda will not shut its doors to people in need, but the country cannot bear this burden alone.

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Qatar Says Will Not Negotiate Until 'Blockade' Lifted

By VOA News June 19, 2017

Qatar says it will not negotiate with neighboring countries unless they cease their economic and travel "blockade" of the Gulf state.

The countries have accused Qatar of supporting terrorism, a charge that Doha strongly denies.

"We have to make it very clear for everyone, negotiations must be done in a civilized way and should have a solid basis and not under pressure or under blockade," Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulraham al-Thani told reporters in the capital city of Doha.

Surrounding countries Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates cut ties with Qatar two weeks ago, causing the worst Gulf Arab crisis in years with no clear end in sight.

"Until now we didn't see any progress about lifting the blockade, which is the precondition for anything to move forward," al-Thani said.

Saudi Arabia first took action on June 5, pulling its ambassador out of Qatar and forcing Qatari nationals to move back to their home country by June 19. Saudi Arabia also closed Qatar's only land border and banned its planes from using Saudi airspace.

Al-Thani claims that anything that relates to the affairs of the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council is subject to negotiation. The council is made up of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.

According to al-Thani, Qatar has not received any demands from the Gulf States or any other countries.

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Su-17 FITTER (SUKHOI)

The Su-17 Fitter with its variable sweep wings was developed from the fixed-wing Su-7B. The first public demonstration of it was made in 1969. It was in production for a long time (1970-1990) and many modifications were built. Some of the modifications were Su-17M, Su-17M2, Su-17M3, and the Su-17M4 (low-altitude subsonic bomber), Su-17UM (trainer). It was designed as a fighter-bomber, but it was used mostly as a bomber. The Su-17 remains an effective aircraft with capable avionics and impressive armament.

In 1960, the Su-7 fighter-bomber, which had very high characteristics for its time, was accepted into service with the Soviet army. However, the military did not like his landing speed, there were other comments on the design of the aircraft, its electronics and weapons.

In the mid-1960s, after the Su-7B was adopted, the designers were given a new task - to find ways to reduce the take-off and landing distances for this type of aircraft. Sukhoi tried to solve this problem with the help of starting accelerators and brake parachutes, but soon we came to the conclusion that a wing with variable geometry was necessary.

Seeking to improve low-speed and take-off/landing performance of the Su-7B fighter-bomber, in 1963 the Sukhoi OKB with input from TsAGI created a variable-sweep wing technology demonstrator. The TsAGI specialists, together with the designers of the Sukhoi Design Bureau, proposed an original wing design for the new aircraft: the angle was only changed by its cantilever part (about half the span). By turning only the outer section and thereby maintaining the minimum displacements of the centers of pressure and gravity as the geometry changed, the developers left the design of the Su-7B wing almost intact.

Thanks to this design, the fuselage of the original machine (Su-7) was practically not changed. The size of the center section was determined by the location of the main landing gear of the aircraft. In addition, this technical solution practically did not lead to a change in the centering of the machine when the wing was changed, the aircraft showed good stability at all angles of sweep over a wide range of speeds.

The Su-7IG (internal designation S-22I, NATO designation "Fitter-B"), converted from a production Su-7BM, had fixed inner portions of the wing with movable outer segments which could be swept to 28, 45, or 62. A fixed inner wing simplified construction, allowing the manufacturer to retain the Su-7 landing gear and avoiding the need for complex pivoting underwing hardpoints, and it minimized the shift in the center of pressure relative to the center of mass with change in wing sweep. The new wing also had extensive leading-edge slats and trailing-edge flaps. Su-7IG first flew on 2 August 1966 with V. S. Ilyushin at the controls, becoming the first Soviet variable geometry aircraft. Testing revealed that take-off and landing speeds had decreased by 5060 km/h (3137 mph) compared to the conventional Su-7.

The wings are mid- to low-mounted (wings are mounted below the center), variable, swept-back, and tapered with blunt tips. There are wide wing roots. There is one turbojet engine in the fuselage and a circular air intake in the nose. There is a large, single exhaust. The fuselage is long and tubular with a blunt nose and rear section. It has a large bubble canopy. There is a prominent dorsal spine on top of the body from the cockpit to the tail fin. The tail is swept-back and has a tapered fin with a square tip. The flats are mid- to low-mounted on the fuselage and swept-back and tapered.

At the end of 1965, the drawings of the fighter-bomber were transferred to production. August 2, 1966 a new aircraft took off. During the flight, the pilot shifted the wing several times. The successful course of testing allowed to show the new aircraft in the air parade in Tushino in July 1967. In November of the same year, the USSR Council of Ministers issued a decree on the start of mass production of the new machine in 1969. She received the name of the Su-17.

The Su-17 project as a whole was a simple and inexpensive technical solution, which significantly improved the flight characteristics of an existing vehicle. It also made it possible to easily, quickly and cheaply start mass production of a new aircraft at the plant, which previously produced the Su-7. Modernization expanded tactical capabilities of the aircraft, as well as increased the range of its use. However, the increase in the mass of the Su-17 almost negated all the improvements achieved on the experimental machines.

Serial production of the Su-17 (the aircraft received this designation) was adjusted only in 1969. Serial production of the Su-17 began at an aircraft factory in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, before that they produced the Su-7. The first subdivision into which the Su-17 began to enter was the 523rd Aviation Regiment of the Far Eastern Military District.

Su-17 showed the best flight performance compared with its prototype Su-7BM. The new fighter-bomber had a long range and its duration, despite the reduced volume of fuel tanks and an increase in vehicle mass, and its take-off and landing characteristics improved. Also, significant changes were made on-board electronic equipment of the aircraft. The most massive series went version of the Su-17M with the engine AD-21F-3. In 1975, the car was equipped with the latest weapons control equipment with a laser rangefinder and the KN-23 navigation system, which solved the problem of flight to the target and back automatically.

Airplanes of all modifications of the Su-17 were armed with two 30-mm guns NR-30, which were installed in the center section. There were also six pylons for the suspension of rocket-bomb armaments: two under the wings, and four under the fuselage. Modification of the Su-17M4 had ten pylons for the suspension of rockets and bombs. Her combat load was 4,250 kg. Modifications of the Su-17 and Su-17M had a PBC-2 bomb mount and a ASP-5ND-7 riflescope. A more modern ASP-17 rifle scope was mounted on the Su-17M2.

The last of the 'Fitter' series, the backbone of Russian ground attack squadrons since the 1960s, the 'Fitter-K' is designed to operate from forward airfields. Known as the Strizh (Marlet), it has a short range compared to most ground attack aircraft. It can carry four rocket pods - each 32x57 mm folding fin rockets - or four air-to-air missiles, or bombs. Or it may carry a wide range of guided weapons from the AS-7 'Kerry' command-guided missile to the AS-9 'Kyle' anti-radar missile. Due to problems in Afghanistan with shoulder fired heat-seeking missiles, the 'Fitter-Ks' have chaff and flare dispensers.

Production of the fighter-bomber continued until 1990. In total, more than 2,800 units of this combat vehicle were manufactured. The Su-17 is still in service with the air forces of Poland, Vietnam, Angola, Syria, Uzbekistan and Libya. Export versions of this aircraft are designated Su-20 and Su-22. The export versions can be distinguished by a deeper dorsal spine.





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In May, ISIS-affiliated militants took control of Marawi, a Muslim-majority city in the Philippines. Since that time, Muslim citizens of that city have been hiding Christians who are under threat of being exterminated by the militants bent on turning Marawi into a caliphate.

On Tuesday, June 13, 2017, three Christians who had been hiding in their Muslim employers basement since the militant invasion in May escaped to the Philippine-military-controlled area of the city. Speaking to the police and The New York Times, these three men told their story of hiding from the militants and just narrowly escaping death. One of the men, Nick Andilig, said the militants claimed to be ISIS out on mission to cleanse the city.

Ian Torres said while they were hiding with two other peoplea man and his pregnant wifethey could only hear what was going on outside. We heard them shouting Allahu akbar and asking neighbors about religion If they could not answer questions about Quran verses, gunfire immediately followed.

Torres and Andilig were part of a group of five workers from Iligan City, about 25 miles north of Marawi. The group was hired to do renovation work on a house owned by a prominent trader, who happened to be Muslim. Andilig called their employer a good Muslim and recounted how he saved their lives by hiding the five of them in his basement and then telling militants there were no Christians in his house. The employer escaped afterward, leaving food for the workers. After the food ran out and forays into the war-ravaged city were becoming more difficult, the five workers decided to attempt fleeing. However, the man and wife, who is seven-months-pregnant, decided to wait it out since running would likely prove too difficult.

Andilig said, Wetold ourselves that our fate was with the Lord.

This is not the only story of Muslims helping Christians in Marawi either. The New York Times article also tells the story of five Christian construction workers being hidden and protected by five Muslim police officers for almost three weeks. The officers had an opportunity to flee the city, which is being bombed as the Philippine military attempts to take it back, but decided to stay so they could protect the Christians in their care.

Officer Lidasan says the militants are not real Muslims because real Muslims will not hurt people unprovoked, regardless of religion.

After getting word that the army was going to bomb their hideout area, the officers and the Christians made their escape, just barely making it out of the fighting zone. A few of them were wounded, including Mr. Aleko, a Christian. Despite this, Aleko says I thank God for these officers and his chance at a second life.

Muslims and Christians living in harmony is not a rare thing in Marawi. In fact, religious harmony has become expected in several nations throughout southeast Asia. Andilig testified to this fact by saying, I have many friends who are Muslim It was never a problem in the past.

Judging by the statements made about good and real Muslims, its apparent that the militants are seen as anomalies to Islam. They do not practice their faith as others do in the region. Thats not to say there havent been any problems in the past, but this new breed of ISIS-inspired, violence-inducing Islam is concerning.
Macron's Party Heading for Absolute Majority in French Parliament

By VOA News June 18, 2017

Despite record low turnout, French President Emmanuel Macron's party won an absolute majority of seats in parliament Sunday, according to early polls.

France's new centrist president and his La Republique en Marche (Republic on the Move) party are seeing a resounding victory, winning somewhere between 355 and 425 of the 577 seats in the National Assembly, and enabling the president to push through his promised reforms of France's strict labor laws and its ailing social security system.

Macron's new centrist party easily beat the traditional left and right parties that have led the National Assembly for decades.

Far-right trailing badly

The far-right National Front party of Macron's rival in the elections, Marine Le Pen, has likely won fewer than 10 seats in parliament.

Macron, who has been in office a little more than a month, has made his mark on the international stage, playing President Donald Trump at his own handshake game and winning, criticizing Russia's Vladimir Putin while standing beside him, and jumping in with new proposals after the U.S. announced a U-turn on climate change.

That has had an effect at home. After five years of Socialist Party rule, in which former president Francois Hollande failed to meet his objectives of reducing unemployment and giving a boost to the flagging economy, the French were depressed and downbeat.

Seeing the new president widely acclaimed and admired on the international stage has made voters at home sit up and take note  and decide to give him a chance.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe has said Macron "has embodied trust, willingness and audacity."

Maria Gallivan contributed to this report from Paris.

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Germany Reveals When Its Jets Will Resume Flights Over Syria

Sputnik News

18:30 18.06.2017(updated 22:52 18.06.2017)

German Tornado fighter jets will resume their flights over Syria in October after the relocation of the Bundeswehr military detachment from Incirlik base in Turkey to Jordan, German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview with German newspaper BILD am SONNTAG.

According to the politician, the exact dates of the transfer have not yet been determined. However, the main goal is that "the transfer phase is as short as possible and that the safety of the troops is ensured," von der Leyen said.

On June 7, Berlin decided to withdraw its military from the Incirlik air base in Turkey after Ankara banned German lawmakers from entering the base. Turkey explained the move, citing Berlin's decision to give asylum to Turkish soldiers after last year's attempted coup.

"Until the end of June, we are included in the schedule of the anti-Daesh coalition. Then we move our tankers to Jordan as soon as possible. After a few days, they are back in action, I think in the second half of July. The transfer of the Tornado jets and of the complex aerial photo equipment is more complicated; it will take two months, from August to September. From October, the reconnaissance tornados should resume their flights, according to the plan," von der Leyen said.

Germany deployed its military in Turkey after the November 2015 terrorist attacks in Paris to participate in the anti-Daesh campaign led by the United States. Berlin's activities included reconnaissance missions and refueling for coalition aircraft.

 Sputnik

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Iranian, Chinese joint military exercises kick off in Persian Gulf

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Bandar Abbas, Hormuzgan Pro, June 18, IRNA -- Iranian and Chinese joint military maneuver commenced in the Persian Gulf waters on Sunday.

Iranian fleet has partaken in the exercise with a destroyer and a helicopter and the Chinese have brought two destroyers, one logistic ship, and one helicopter.

The Chinese navy entered Bandar Abbas on Thursday and was warmly welcomed by the Iranian navy officers and many Chinese people residing in Bandar Abbas.

Commander of the First Naval Base Rear Admiral Amir Hossein Azad in a joint press conference with commander of Chinese visiting' fleet-150' in Bandar Abbas on Thursday evening said that the maneuver will be held in the east of the Hormuz Strait and north of the Indian Ocean.

The commander added that in fighting against the ominous phenomenon of piracy, defending trade fleets, and carrying out relief and rescue operations, the two navies have collaboration and exchange useful information.

Rear Admiral Shen Hao, Commander of China Navy Task Force Group 150 said holding the maneuver had already been planned and the successful execution of the program will help develop more friendship, promote interaction and strengthen confidence between the two navies of Iran and China.

He called Iran and China two ancient and civilized countries of Asia with a long history of friendship, adding that by exchanging high ranking delegations in recent years, cooperation between the two navies have entered into a new phase.

The flotilla is the second Chinese warship group to dock in Bandar Abbas since September 2014.

9417**1771

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Number of Iranian fishing boats driven toward KSA unknown

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, June 18, IRNA -- An informed source said that the number of boats driven by sea waves toward Saudi Arabia is unknown, adding one or three boats could have entered Saudi waters.

He told IRNA on Sunday morning that, according to the Iranian police, at 5:30 am local time (01:00 GMT) on Saturday a boat sailed by a father and his son had gone to Bushehr coast waters for fishing, which was driven toward Saudi Arabia by sea waves.

The Saudi coastguard opened fire, and killed the father, but the son was able to escape to Iranian beach.

Bushehr Province authorities say that they are also following up another report saying that three boats were pushed toward Saudi Arabia, but nothing is still known about their fates.

He added the survived son says he knows nothing about the other boats but that unknown people had shot at them.

Any information gained will be announced in the following hours, said the official.

9417**1771

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Iranian fisherman killed by Saudi coastguards

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, June 18, IRNA -- An Iranian fisherman has been killed by Saudi Arabia coastguards, an official at the Interior Ministry announced.

Majid Aqa-Babaei, Interior Ministry's director general for border affairs, told IRNA on Saturday evening that the Saudi coastguards opened fire on the Iranian fishermen who had been pushed off by sea waves.

Two Iranian boats fishing in the Persian Gulf waters had been moved away due to the waves, Aqa-Babaei said, adding that the fate of the other boat is being followed up.

The Saudi coastguards did shoot the Iranian boats while whether the boats had entered the Saudi borders or not has not been confirmed yet, the official noted.

An Iranian fisherman was killed by the Saudi guards shooting, Aqa-Babaei said, adding that their action was against human principles.

The Saudi coastguards were not allowed to shoot, even if they supposed that the Iranian boats had entered the Saudi waters, the Interior Ministry official stressed.

Iran is following up the destiny of the other Iranian boat, said he, adding the following-up process would face problems as Iran does not have an embassy in Saudi Arabia.

1483**1771

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IRGC completely dismantles terrorist group in southeast Iran: Commander

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 5:51PM

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has managed to kill all members of a Takfiri terrorist outfit and completely dismantle it in a southeastern Iranian town, a senior IRGC commander says.

"A terrorist team, which we had engaged a few days ago in the town of Qasr-e Qand, was completely dismantled today after the killing of five more of its elements," Commander of IRGC's Ground Force Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour told Fars news agency on Sunday.

He added that two members of the terrorist group had been killed after the operation launched in Qasr-e Qand town in the province of Sistan-and-Baluchestan on Thursday.

The remaining members had fled to nearby mountains, but were killed during clashes with the intelligence teams of the Qods Headquarters of the IRGC ground forces, he noted.

The senior IRGC commander said the identity of the terrorists has not been determined yet, adding, "The terrorists were members of the [so-called] Ansar al-Furqan group and their identities are under investigation."

Pakpour emphasized that no IRGC member was killed or injured in the operations.

The IRGC said in a Thursday statement that its Qods Headquarters had dispatched its units to Qasr-e Qand after obtaining information about the presence of a Takfiri terrorist group in the area and engaged the group in mountainous areas.

"During the anti-terror operation, the IRGC's Qods Headquarters fighters destroyed a vehicle laden with 600 kilograms of explosives, and seized five bombs ready to be used in suicide attacks, 700 kilograms of explosives, tens of thousands of bullets and a number of weapons and ammunition," the statement read.

On Wednesday, Iranian security forces killed two terrorists and arrested five others in Chabahar, another city in Sistan-and-Baluchestan province, and arrested another terrorist group in the western province of Kordestan. According to informed sources, the terrorists belonged to the Ansar al-Furqan group.

This came in the wake of twin terrorist attacks in the Iranian capital Tehran, which killed 17 people and injured over 50 others.

On June 7, gunmen mounted almost simultaneous assaults on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of the late Founder of the Islamic Republic Imam Khomeini. The Daesh Takfiri terrorist group claimed responsibility for the assaults.

Iran has arrested dozens of terrorists since the Tehran attacks.

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Iran's Parliament to give apt response to US Senate sanctions bill: Shamkhani

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 1:0PM

A senior Iranian official has condemned the recent "illegal" measure by the US Senate to approve new sanctions against Iran, saying the Parliament of the Islamic Republic would take "necessary measures" in this regard.

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Shamkhani said on Sunday that such US measures were a "hostile and illegal" move against the Islamic Republic regardless of their legal relationship with the nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries.

He added that the Iranian committee tasked with monitoring the JCPOA implementation has closely examined the US Senate's bill and made necessary decisions to carry out reciprocal measures in response to it.

The Iranian security official emphasized that the continuation of an unconstructive approach by the US administrations toward Iran shows that the American leaders were "seeking pretexts to increase tensions and instability in the region regardless of established international norms."

The US Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly passed a bill imposing sanctions on Iran over its missile program among other things.

The legislation still must pass the Republican-led House of Representatives and be signed by President Donald Trump to become law.

Under the JCPOA signed between Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council - the United States, France, Britain, Russia and China - plus Germany, Iran undertook to put limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.

Washington has so far imposed two rounds of sanctions on Iran under the new US administration over the country's missile program.

'US state secretary's remarks modern barbarism'

Shamkhani further said that US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's recent "hostile" remarks against Iran were an example of modern barbarism.

"Unfortunately, some individuals and countries in the region and in the international scene, which currently speak about stability and security, are themselves the root and result of insecurity, acts of evil and escalation of terrorism," the SNSC secretary added.

He emphasized that Washington's extremist politicians and Daesh were two sides of the same coin, adding that they both had a common goal and sought to negatively affect Iran's domestic conditions through various means.

The US secretary of state told House Foreign Relations Committee on June 14 that the Iranian government "continues activities and interventions that destabilize the Middle East." He added that Washington's policy towards Iran was based on support of internal forces who could bring about peaceful change.

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Iran, China begin naval drill in Strait of Hormuz

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 10:7AM

The Iranian and Chinese Navies have launched a joint exercise in an area stretching from the strategic Strait of Hormuz to the Sea of Oman in the Persian Gulf.

The Chinese flotilla partaking in the drill, which began on Sunday, comprises two battle cruisers, a support vessel, and a helicopter.

It had berthed at the southern Iran port city of Bandar Abbas on Thursday after travelling there from the Pakistani port of Karachi, where it had docked on a training mission.

The Iranian Navy has assigned its Alborz destroyer, a helicopter, and 700 personnel members to the exercise.

China's Ambassador to Tehran Pang Sen accompanied his country's sailors as they met local officials.

Dozens of Iran-based Chinese national traveled to Bandar Abbas to welcome the servicemen, waving the national flags of the two countries.

The event will conclude later in the day, and the Chinese fleet will then head for the Omani capital of Muscat. Earlier, the Chinese personnel visited tourist spots across the Iranian port city.

Last time a Chinese Navy flotilla arrived in the southern Iranian coast was three years ago. A high-ranking naval delegation from China visited Iran for talks in October 2015.

Subsequently, Iran's Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari visited China's eastern port city of Qingdao with a high-ranking team and held talks with military officials.

The Iranian Navy dispatched a naval group to China back in 2012, setting a new precedence in the countries' bilateral naval cooperation.

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Irans missile capability protects its citizens: Zarif

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Mon / 19 June 2017 / 15:55

Tehran (ISNA)  Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who is in Mauritania, stressed on Monday that Irans missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense.

"Irans missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense and advances common global fight to eradicate ISIS and extremist terror," Zarif tweeted.

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced that it has conducted missile attack against Takfiri terrorists key sites in Syrias eastern region of Deir ez-Zor in retaliation for deadly terrorist attacks in Tehran.

During the operation, the medium-range ground-to-ground missiles were launched from Irans western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan.

The missile attack killed a large number of Takfiri terrorists and destroyed their facilities, systems and weapons.

End Item

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Missile attack on terrorists was coordinated with Syrian government: Iran

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Mon / 19 June 2017 / 13:05

Tehran (ISNA)  Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi stressed on Monday that Irans missile attack on terrorist sites in Syrias eastern region of Deir ez-Zor was coordinated with Syrian government and Damascus knew about it.

"In line with its fundamental, certain and immutable policy toward fighting against Takfiri terrorist groups, Islamic Republic of Iran informed Syrian government about its missile attack on terrorists in Deir ez-Zor and the attack had previously been coordinated with Damascus," Ghasemi said in an interview with ISNA.

"Iran as one of the victims of terrorism has repeatedly announced that will continue its fighting against terrorism based on its human, progressive and fundamental stances so the Islamic Republic of Iran condemns terrorism in any form, anywhere and under any pretext and title," he added.

"Iran will use its all capabilities in defense, military, intelligence and security fields to defend its sovereignty and the security of citizens," the spokesman continued.

"Iran would not tolerate the least destabilizing action endangering its national security, rather it will give them firm, duly and smart responses," Bahram Ghasemi emphasized.

According to the reports, the missile attack hit the targets with pinpoint accuracy and the headquarters, ammunition and logistic depots of the terrorists were among the targets in the operation.

The missile attacks were carried out in response to the recent Daesh-claimed terror attacks in Tehran.

End Item

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Iraqi forces progress in Daesh-held Mosul Old City: Cmdr.

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 3:13PM

A high-ranking Iraqi security commander says government forces have made territorial gains in the western part of Mosul as they battle to drive Daesh Takfiri militants out of their last bastion in the country's second largest city.

Commander of Federal Police Forces Lieutenant General Shaker Jawdat said on Sunday that security personnel had advanced 100 meters in the militant-held Old City of Mosul, only hours after they began their assault to retake the rest of Mosul, Arabic-language Mawazin news agency reported.

Jawdat added that soldiers from the Federal Police have also regained control over the civil defense buildings in the area, and are targeting Daesh defense lines with missiles.

Taking back the Old City of Mosul, a densely populated warren of narrow alleyways on the western side of Mosul, is crucial to recapturing the whole of the former Daesh stronghold in Iraq.

The United Nations says around 150,000 civilians are trapped in the neighborhood along with hundreds of Daesh militants.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said on June 16 that members of the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group are holding more than 100,000 Iraqi civilians as human shields in the Old City of western Mosul.

"More than 100,000 civilians may still be held in the Old City. We know that Daesh moved them with them as they left... locations where the fighting was going on. These civilians are basically held as human shields in the Old City," the presiding UNHCR representative in Iraq, Bruno Geddo, told reporters in the Swiss city of Geneva.

He added that there is virtually no food, water, electricity and fuel in the area, and civilians are "living in increasingly worsening situation of penury and panic because they are surrounded by fighting on every side."

Geddo further noted that Daesh snipers try to kill anyone trying to leave the militant-held Old City of Mosul, stressing that the small number of civilians who manage to escape are "deeply traumatized."

Daesh executes four civilians southwest of Kirkuk

Meanwhile, the Takfiri Daesh militant group has reportedly executed four civilians in Iraq's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk on charges of espionage and collaboration with security forces.

A local source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Daesh terrorists killed the victims in the village of Um al-Oyoun near Hawijah, located 45 kilometers west of Kirkuk, on Sunday.

Iraqi army soldiers and volunteer fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units, commonly known by their Arabic name, Hashd al-Sha'abi, have made sweeping gains against the Takfiri elements since launching the Mosul operation on October 17, 2016.

The Iraqi forces took control of eastern Mosul in January after 100 days of fighting, and launched the battle in the west on February 19.

An estimated 862,000 people have been displaced from Mosul ever since the battle to retake the city began nine months ago. A total of 195,000 civilians have also returned, mainly to the liberated areas of eastern Mosul.

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Iraqi forces storm Mosul's Old City in 'last chapter' operation

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 9:6AM

Iraqi forces have stormed the northern city of Mosul's Old City, the last bastion held by the Daesh terrorist group in the Arab country.

The assault was announced by the military on Sunday, a day after the country's battle to retake the city entered its ninth month.

Staff Lieutenant General Abdulamir Yarallah, who commands army operations in Nineveh Province, said Iraqi special forces, the regular army and Federal Police are taking part in the operation which began Sunday at dawn.

The Old City is home to the centuries-old al-Nuri Mosque, where Daesh leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi delivered a Friday sermon in 2014 as his group declared a caliphate in the areas it controlled in Syria and Iraq.

"This is the last chapter" in the Mosul offensive, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Asadi, the commander of the Counter Terrorism Service (CTS), which comprises crack forces.

Battle is especially hard in the district given its structure of intertwined narrow passageways, where some 100,000 civilians are trapped and being used by the terror outfit as human shields. The Iraqi forces, hence, are trying to liberate the district house by house.

The Takfiri terrorists, meanwhile, have been shooting down civilians trying to flee on foot or via the Tigris River, the United Nations has reported.

Daesh started its campaign of bloodshed and destruction against Iraq and Syria in 2014. The same year, it named Mosul and the northern Syrian city of Raqqah as its capitals.

Iraqi government forces regained eastern Mosul in January. A month later, they began the offensive on the western side.

Reports from the eastern side have depicted the situation as normal, with the civilians going about their daily business.

Also, Raqqah is currently being approached from various sides by Syrian troops and US-led militants in a final push to retake the city.

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Iraqi Troops Storm Mosul's Old City, Last IS Stronghold

RFE/RL June 18, 2017

Iraqi security forces have launched an operation to retake the last Islamic State (IS) militant group stronghold in Mosul, the country's second-largest city.

Brett McGurk, the U.S. envoy to the international coalition fighting IS militants, said on Twitter that Iraqi forces breached Mosul's Old City early June 18.

Lieutenant General Abdul-Amir Rasheed Yarallah, who commands army operations in Ninevah Governorate, said Iraqi special forces, the regular army, and federal police were taking part in the operation.

"The initial air strikes started at around midnight. The security forces started storming parts of the Old City at dawn," an officer with Nineveh operations command said.

"This is the final chapter" in the offensive to take Mosul, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, commander of the elite Counterterrorism Service (CTS) units spearheading the assault.

The IS group overran Mosul in 2014, declaring a self-styled "caliphate" over areas it ruled.

Mosul's Old City is a densely populated maze of narrow alleyways where fighting is often conducted house by house.

About 100,000 civilians remain trapped there in harrowing conditions, with little food, water, and medicine and limited access to hospitals, according to the United Nations.

"This will be a terrifying time for around 100,000 people still trapped in Mosul's Old City ... now at risk of getting caught up in the fierce street fighting to come," the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said in a statement.

Iraqi forces backed by the air strikes of the U.S.-led coalition have been pressing a months-long offensive to retake the Old City on the west side of the city from IS fighters.

Taking back the Old City is crucial to recapturing the whole of the former IS bastion.

Thousands of civilians are believed to be trapped in the Old City, where the militants are using them as human shields, UN humanitarian coordinator Lise Grande said June 16. She said conditions are "desperate," with little food and no clean water.

Iraqi forces launched the Mosul offensive in October, retaking the eastern part of the city in January and starting the operation for its western part the next month.

The move on Mosul's Old City comes just one day after the Iraqi military said its forces and Sunni tribal fighters had driven IS extremists out of the Al-Waleed border crossing near Syria, nearly three years to the day after the town fell to IS.

The military statement on June 17 said U.S. and Iraqi aircraft supported ground troops in the offensive on the western edge of Iraq.

Al-Waleed is across from the Syrian border town of Al-Tanf, site of a U.S. base used to aid forces fighting IS and the government and allies of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's six-year civil war.

IS took Al-Waleed on June 22, 2014, as its forces captured large chunks of territory from Syrian and Iraqi government forces, declaring capitals in the Syrian town of Raqqa and the Iraqi city of Mosul.

When Al-Waleed fell to IS, it gave the group control of the Iraq-Syria frontier. At the time, they vowed to eliminate the border and establish a "caliphate" over territory in the two Arab nations.

U.S.-backed fighters in both countries are now pressuring IS forces and are attempting to push their final fighters out of the two self-declared capitals.

Along with supporting Iraqi government forces, the United States backs Syrian and Kurdish rebels fighting Assad's government in Damascus. Russia and Iran have backed Assad.

The presence of the U.S. forces on the Syrian side near Al-Tanf has prevented Iran-backed Shi'ite forces supporting Assad's government from receiving supplies along the main Baghdad-Damascus highway. The capture of Al-Waleed is likely to aid the U.S. efforts there.

On June 6, the U.S.-led coalition said it had eliminated a unit of Iranian-backed forces fighting on behalf of Assad as it neared the Al-Tanaf base. Russia denounced that attack as an "act of aggression."

The Pentagon on June 14 announced the deployment of the truck-mounted High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) to the Al-Tanf base, also drawing protests from Russia.

Around Raqqa, U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have seized territory to the north, east, and west of the city as they prepare for the final assault on the IS stronghold.

With reporting by AP, Reuters, Kurdistan24, and TASS

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iraq-waleed-syria -border-mosul-raqqa-coalition-arab-kurdish- fighters/28561089.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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Kurdistan Wants Independence Vote to Be First Step in Talks With Iraq

Sputnik News

18:58 18.06.2017(updated 22:17 18.06.2017)

Iraqi Kurdistan expresses hope that the independence referendum, scheduled for late September, will mark the beginning of a comprehensive dialogue with Baghdad, head of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Foreign Relations Department, Minister Falah Mustafa Bakir told Sputnik Sunday.

CAIRO (Sputnik)  Kurdistan became an autonomous region in Iraq after former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein was overthrown and a new constitution was adopted in 2005. Since then, Kurdistan's authorities have repeatedly raised the issue of the region's independence and announced on June 7 that the referendum will be held on September 25. The decision was slammed by multiple Western states, including the United States, which regards the independence vote as a distraction from the war against the Daesh terror group.

"We want the referendum to become the first step to the launch of a serious and comprehensive dialogue aimed at the independence of Erbil from Baghdad," Mustafa said.

The minister noted that Kurdistan offered a referendum as an option of the peaceful solution to the internal problems of Iraq.

"This is why we want Baghdad to respect the will of the people of the region," Mustafa stressed.

The relations between Iraqi Kurdistan and shia government in Baghdad have worsened in the past years over multiple reasons, including views on local oil fields and the profits therefrom. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi, who came to power in 2014, took the path of normalizing relations with the autonomous region and admitted its right for self-determination.

 Sputnik

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Iraqi Forces Launch Final Assault on IS-Held Mosul Old City

By VOA News June 18, 2017

Iraqi forces launched a final assault on Mosul's Old city, the last stronghold of Islamic State in their self-declared "caliphate" in Iraq.

Following overnight airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition, Iraqi forces began the attack on the historic district of Iraq's second largest city at dawn, military commanders said.

According to VOA's Heather Murdock in Mosul, soldiers say they have broken through the first defense lines that surround the area, where as many as 150,000 civilians are believed to be trapped, starving and serving as human shields to IS.

Soldiers say these families are a key source of intelligence as military forces fight on foot, taking one house at a time.

"They help us a lot. When we go in they tell us which roads have IEDs or car bombs on them. It's difficult for us to enter new areas but families make it easier.," said 1st Lieutenant Walid El-Rakabi with Iraq's Special Forces.

The Old City of Mosul is the area of the city still under the control of Islamic State, who seized Mosul three years ago.

The Iraqi military offensive to retake Mosul from Islamic State was launched on October 17. The militants were ousted rather quickly from their stronghold in the east, but retaking the more densely-populated western part of the city, including the Old City, has taken longer than expected.

The International Rescue Committee called on Iraqi forces and the U.S.-led coalition to "do everything in their power to keep civilians safe during these final stages of the battle for Mosul."

"With its narrow and winding streets, Iraqi forces will be even more reliant on airstrikes despite the difficulty in identifying civilians sheltering in buildings and the increased risk of civilians being used as human shields by ISIS fighters," said Nora Love, the aid group's acting country director, using another acronym for IS.

The Old City is home to the centuries-old al-Nuri mosque, where IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi delivered a Friday sermon in 2014 as his group declared an Islamic caliphate in the areas it controlled in Syria and Iraq. The militants have lost much of that territory over the last three years, and Mosul is their last urban bastion in Iraq.

Some information from this report was provided by the Associated Press.

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Russia Building Prototype of New Generation 'Flying Radar'

Sputnik News

17:18 18.06.2017(updated 17:22 18.06.2017)

Russia's next generation early radar warning aircraft, the Beriyev A-100 Premier "flying radar," is in its final stages of development now. It is scheduled to begin testing before this year is out, Technodinamika Holding Company deputy head Igor Nasenkov, one of the parties engaged in the plane's development, told Sputnik.

"We have every reason to hope that we'll be able to test fly the plane before the end of this year," Nasenkov said, adding that talking about the A-100's mass production now would be premature.

Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said in May that testing of Russia's all-new AWACS plane could begin in July.

"This is a priority for our state armament program. I can tell you all that work is in progress and is strictly on schedule and we'll get down to state trial testing in July," Borisov said.

The Beriyev A-100, which is based on the Il-76MD-90A transport aircraft, was first tested in flight on a flying laboratory in April.

The A-100 Premier is a new generation of early radar warning and control aircraft designed to track aerial targets, including US F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters, and surface ships, as well as alert command centers about developments in the sky or at sea.

The A-100, already nicknamed "a flying mushroom" due to the distinctive rotating radar dome above the fuselage, is an upgrade of its A-50 predecessor that first flew in 1978 and entered service in 1984.

Its avionics and configuration are similar to the A-50's, but the A-100 is built around a new multilateration radar unit featuring a pair of phased-array antennas capable of detecting enemy fighter planes at a distance of up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) and surface ships up to 400 kilometers (250 miles) away.

Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that as part of the ongoing R&D process, Russia plans to build two A-100 Premier planes  a flying lab and a test aircraft.

 Sputnik

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Syrian, Iraqi army troops meet up at border for first time in years

Iran Press TV

Sun Jun 18, 2017 5:45PM

Syrian government soldiers, backed by volunteer fighters from popular defense groups, have linked up with Iraqi army troops for the first time in years after they took control of a vast territory in Syria's semi-arid southeastern region of al-Badiya.

Lebanon-based Arabic-language al-Manar television network reported on Sunday that the army units in cooperation with allies had managed to liberate 25,000 square kilometers (9,600 square miles) of land during a campaign in the border region in recent weeks.

"This is the sign of the cooperation between the brotherly Iraqi and Syrian military leadership to secure the shared borders," a Syrian army general, speaking on condition of anonymity, told privately-owned and pro-government al-Ikhbariya al-Soriyah television news network.

The general said the meeting point for Iraqi and Syrian forces is northeast of Tanf base, where the US military is training anti-government Takfiri militants.

The Syrian military official further noted that the new meeting point is only 20 kilometers (12 miles) from al-Mayadeen area, where Daesh terrorists have recently relocated much of their leadership to.

The development came only a day after Iraqi forces liberated al-Waleed border crossing point in the Ar-Rutba district of the western province of Anbar from Daesh extremists.

Meanwhile, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Iraqi forces had moved northeast of al-Waleed, meeting up with pro-government Syrian troops for the first time since 2015.

The head of the Britain-based monitoring group, Rami Abdurrahman, said the link between Iraqi and Syrian forces will allow Iraqi army soldiers and volunteer fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units, commonly known by their Arabic name, Hashd al-Sha'abi, to move inside Syria and help Syrian government's campaign against Daesh in the eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr.

Separately, the artillery units of the Syrian army have struck Daesh positions across Dayr al-Zawr, killing and wounding many of the extremist militants in Panorama area, Borouk Hill, al-Tharda and al-Hueiqa neighborhoods as well as Ayash village.

A correspondent for Syria's official news agency SANA reported that Syrian Air Forces jets have bombarded Daesh vehicles equipped with heavy machineguns in Hattla and the outskirts of Dayr al-Zawr Airport.

Scores of militants have been killed and injured during the airstrikes.

Syria has been fighting different foreign-sponsored militant and terrorist groups since March 2011. UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura estimated last August that more than 400,000 people had been killed in the crisis until then.

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Russia Issues Blunt Warning After Coalition Downs Syrian Jet

RFE/RL June 19, 2017

Russia has warned that it will consider U.S.-led coalition aircraft in Syria "aerial targets" after a U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian Air Force plane.

The threat from the Russian Defense Ministry, issued on June 19, stopped short of saying U.S. or other allied jets would be shot down but still represented a sharp increase in tensions.

The U.S.-led coalition said earlier that pro-government militiamen attacked units of U.S. partner forces known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). It said the Syrian aircraft had dropped bombs on SDF positions and was shot down near Tabqa in the afternoon of June 18 "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of coalition-partnered forces."

The coalition said it contacted Russian counterparts via a special telephone line "to deescalate the situation and stop the firing."

"The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat," the statement said.

The Pentagon said that the Syrian fighter bomber was engaged by a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet jet.

The Russian ministry, however, denied that the United States had used the channel before the Syrian Su-22 bomber was downed. It said it was also suspending interaction with the United States on preventing air incidents over Syria.

"Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as aerial targets by Russia's air defenses on and above ground," the Defense Ministry said in its statement.

Russia is a key ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

A Syrian Army statement said the "flagrant attack" was aimed at undermining "the efforts of the army as the only effective force capable with its allies...in fighting terrorism across its territory."

"This comes at a time when the Syrian Army and its allies were making clear advances in fighting the [IS] terrorist group," it said, adding that the pilot was missing.

Meanwhile, Russian news agencies quoted Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying on June 19 that the United States should respect Syria's territorial integrity and refrain from unilateral actions in this country.

"As for what is happening 'on the ground' in Syria, we proceed from the assumption that it is necessary to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity in Syria," Lavrov was quoted as saying. "Therefore, any actions 'on the ground,' and there are many participants there, including those who carry out military operations, should be coordinated with Damascus."

Lavrov's deputy, Sergei Ryabkov, described the U.S. strike as another step toward "dangerous escalation."

"We are warning Washington against using similar methods in the future," Ryabkov was quoted by Interfax news agency as saying.

He added that he will meet with U.S. Undersecretary of State Thomas Shannon on June 23 in St. Petersburg to discuss problems in bilateral ties, the news agency reported.

The U.S.-backed SDF fighters are in the process of encircling Raqqa, the Islamic State militant's final major stronghold in Syria.

The Syrian Army has also taken territory from retreating IS in the area as the multifaceted battle in Syria rages on after six years.

The United States and Turkey support differing rebel groups against IS and pro-government forces, while Russia and Iran back Assads government.

On June 19, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry said that the next round of Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, has been scheduled for July 4-5.

At the end of the previous round of talks in Astana last month, Russia, Turkey, and Iran signed a memorandum calling for the establishment of safe zones in Syria, but some Syrian opposition representatives walked out in protest.

The six-year Syrian conflict has left hundreds of thousands dead and driven more than 11 million people from their homes.

IS fighters are also under pressure in Iraq. On June 18, Iraqi security forces launched an operation to fully liberate Mosul, the country's second-largest city.

U.S. officials said coalition forces had breached the Old City, where the final IS extremists are clinging to their last positions, using more than 100,000 civilians as human shields.

With reporting by Interfax, Reuters, and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-syria-sdf-warplane- shootdown-assad-islamic-state/28561861.html

Copyright (c) 2017. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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US-Led Coalition Shoots Down Syrian Army Aircraft - Reports

Sputnik News

22:24 18.06.2017(updated 23:27 18.06.2017)

US-led anti-terrorist coalition has reportedly shot down a Syrian government forces' aircraft.

Syrian Arab Army announced that the US-led anti-terrorist coalition had brought down its aircraft in southern Raqqa countryside, Syrian media reported citing a statement by the Syrian Defence Ministry.

According to the report, the Syrian jet fighter was carrying out military tasks fighting Daesh terrorist organization.

"Our aircraft was downed at lunch time today near the [Syrian] city of Raqqa, when it was fulfilling its mission against the IS," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the US-led coalition was responsible for downing the aircraft.

The ministry noted that the coalition's "actions are aimed at halting the Syrian army and its allies in the fight against terrorism, whereas our army and allies make great progress."

According to the ministry, the pilot of the aircraft has not been found to date.

This is not the first time the US-led coalition's activities in Raqqa cause casualties. Syrian media reported earlier that at least 43 civilians were killed as a result of the US-led coalition airstrike in the region. The Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned the airstrikes and sent two letters the UN secretary general and the head of the UN Security Council, in which the coalition's actions were compared to Daesh crimes. Just a few days later, the Lebanese media reported that the coalition's airstrikes killed more than 30 civilians more near Raqqa.

Raqqa has been under the control of Daesh since 2013, and is the de-facto capital of the self-proclaimed Daesh caliphate. The operation to retake Raqqa, conducted by a coalition consisting of almost 70 countries, has been on-going since November 2016. The strikes in Syria are not authorized by the UN Security Council or the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

 Sputnik

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Syrian Militants Supported by Turkish Army Conduct Offensive in Aleppo Province

Sputnik News

12:29 18.06.2017(updated 16:10 18.06.2017)

A Kurdish source told Sputnik that Syrian militants conduct an offensive to the north of Afrin in the Aleppo province with the support of the Turkish army.

"I can say that the Turkish troops and militants they support have advanced for one kilometer toward Syrian territory in Afrin's north. The advance is supported by the Turkish army's artillery" the source told Sputnik on Saturday.

According to the source, the Turkish artillery has been shelling Kurdish settlements near Afrin for 6 days.

The Ahrar al-Sham radical Islamist group, according to the source, are using the situation by attempts to seize strategic heights near the settlements on the outskirts of Afrin.

The city of Afrin located in the north of the province of Aleppo, which is mostly inhabited by the Kurds, is located near the Syrian-Turkish border and 20 kilometers from the border town of Azaz, which is controlled by terrorists.

In March, Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) General command spokesperson told Sputnik that continuous shelling of villages in Syria's Afrin by the Turkish military resulted in ten civilian casualties.

Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry said one of the branches of the Russian reconciliation center will be established in Syria's Aleppo province in order to prevent violations of the cessation of hostilities in the region of contact between Kurdish militias and Turkey-supported rebel formations.

 Sputnik

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Taiwan criticizes China's behavior at labor meeting

ROC Central News Agency

2017/06/18 17:46:09

Taipei, June 18 (CNA) Taiwan has expressed regret over China's protest against Nicaragua for speaking out on Taiwan's behalf during the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva on June 14.

According to media reports, Nicaragua's representative called on the International Labour Organization (ILO) and its members at the conference to attach importance to the rights of Taiwan's workers.

In a subsequent speech, a Chinese representative lodged a protest against Nicaragua, saying that the country was in violation of the "one-China" principle, and it asked all member countries to "stop infringing on China's sovereignty."

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Sunday thanking the Nicaraguan representative for speaking out for the rights Taiwanese workers are entitled to in the international community.

It also expressed regret over China's ignorance of universal and fundamental human rights by citing the so-called "one-China" principle to suppress other countries' right to speak out for Taiwanese workers.

The ministry reiterated that the Republic of China (Taiwan) administration is the only government that represents the 23 million people of Taiwan, a fact that cannot be denied in the international community.

It called on the ILO and concerned organizations to face up to the Taiwan issue and accept Taiwan's participation in the ILO and the ILC (the annual meeting that sets the broad policies of the ILO) on the basis of equality and dignity.

The government's determination to protect labor rights is unchallengeable, and it is willing to cooperate with all ILO member countries to protect and safeguard the universal value of labor rights, the ministry added.

Beijing considers Taiwan to be part of its territory, even though the People's Republic of China has never had jurisdiction over Taiwan since it was founded in 1949.

It has consistently exerted pressure on international organizations and other countries to isolate Taiwan internationally, but that pressure has been ratcheted up since Tsai Ing-wen () of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) took power in May 2016.

The DPP administration has been less conciliatory to China than its predecessor and has not given in to Beijing's demand to recognize a basic formula for relations that says Taiwan and the PRC both belong to one China.

(By Ku Chuan and Evelyn Kao)

Enditem/ls

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Mr. Poroshenko Goes To Washington: What To Expect From The Ukrainian Leader's First Meeting With Trump

Christopher Miller June 19, 2017

KYIV -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko may have pulled off a small coup in winning an audience with U.S. President Donald Trump before Russian leader Vladimir Putin could.

Judging from the deafening silence coming from the White House, however, its a small coup that the U.S. administration doesnt seem interested in publicizing.

When Poroshenko meets Trump for the first time, scheduled for June 20, he could have some explaining to do, and even perhaps some groveling.

Members of Poroshenkos administration, including his ambassador to Washington and Ukrainian lawmakers, were openly critical of Trump and supportive of his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, during the 2016 election.

Many ended up deleting critical remarks about Trump they had published on their social-media accounts after his election victory.

The American president has shown a penchant for flattery, and according to Vladimir Fesenko, the well-connected director at Kyivs Penta Center for Political Studies, that isn't something lost on Poroshenko. The Ukrainian leader will present Trump with a belated birthday gift to kick off their meeting, Fesenko said, citing his own sources.

Poroshenkos communications team has described previous phone calls between the Ukrainian president and Trump as cordial and positive. Behind closed doors, however, some Ukrainian officials have told RFE/RL that the tone of those calls was serious, and one expressed "serious" concern about Trumps commitment to Ukraine.

"We have no idea if [Trump] will keep his promises, because he can often change his mind overnight," one Ukrainian official with knowledge of the phone calls said recently, speaking anonymously because he wasnt authorized to speak to the media. "Also, we know what he says about Putin. Its always, 'Blah, blah, blah, hes so great."

In fact, the Trump administration has said little about the meeting. Neither the White House nor the State Department had made statements about the upcoming meeting or had put it on their agendas by the time this story was published.

The Poroshenko trip is being described as a working visit by Ukrainian officials, not a full-blown state visit, which would involve great pageantry and symbolism. According to a Ukrainian administration official, meetings are also scheduled with Vice President Mike Pence, defense officials, military leaders, the secretaries of trade and energy, and heads of both chambers of Congress. That schedule has not been made public, either.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin, who met both Trump and Pence during a trip to Washington last month and on the same day as his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, will be by Poroshenkos side.

Poroshenkos press secretary, Svyatoslav Tsegolko, did not respond to requests for further details about the trip. On June 19, he confirmed in a post to Twitter that the president was en route to Washington on a "working visit."

The trip comes ahead of Trump's first scheduled meeting with Putin, at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany, on July 7-8. That meeting will be closely watched for clues about the White House's thinking about Russian ties.

The Poroshenko trip also follows reports that the conflict between Ukrainian armed forces and Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine has intensified yet again, despite the peace deal known as the Minsk accords.

At least 10,090 people, including 2,777 civilians, have been killed in the conflict since it began in April 2014, according to the United Nations.

Lethal Weapons

Poroshenko is expected to raise the question of greater American military support, specifically providing Ukraine's armed forces with lethal weapons.

Ukraine has repeatedly requested more advanced weaponry like Javelin antitank missiles to better defend itself against Russia-backed separatist forces. Defense officials have also complained about the poor quality of equipment previously provided: old Humvees that frequently break down, drones that are missing cameras or are easily jammed by Russian equipment.

Trumps predecessor, Barack Obama, refused to supply lethal weaponry, fearing that would escalate the war, instead limiting equipment to things like flak jackets, night-vision goggles, and radar systems to counter artillery.

But the refusal to send more advanced arms was criticized by many Ukrainian soldiers, who were pummeled by Russia-supplied heavy artillery at the peak of the conflict in summer 2014 and winter 2015. It was also criticized by many lawmakers and policymakers in Washington, Republicans and Democrats alike.

While there is bipartisan support in Congress for supplying new weaponry, Trump has not signaled whether he would consider doing so. Poroshenko may try to get a direct answer on that.

"Poroshenkos message will be that it is not possible to move on any political solutions [to end the conflict] if there is no security on the ground," said Olexiy Haran, a professor of comparative politics at the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and academic director of Democratic Initiatives Foundation, a think tank.

Even if Trump were to agree to support Ukraine with arms, the move would unlikely change anything on the battlefield, merely giving Poroshenko good publicity at home, Mark Galeotti, a senior researcher at the Institute of International Relations in Prague, told RFE/RL.

"American military assistance is symbolic but not likely to make a difference on the line of contact," he said, referring to the front line.

Russia Sanctions

Poroshenko will also be looking to get a firm commitment from Trump that he wont roll back the U.S. sanctions imposed on Russia over its annexation of Crimea and military support for separatists, Haran told RFE/RL.

Kyiv received a positive sign last week when the Senate overwhelmingly passed legislation prohibiting Trump from rolling back sanctions without Congresss approval. But some officials in Kyiv were concerned by Secretary of State Rex Tillersons comments to lawmakers, asking them not to restrict the White Houses ability to negotiate with Russia.

The Senate legislation must still be taken up by the House of Representatives, and the White House reportedly plans to push Republican members for a friendlier sanctions deal.

One of Ukraines great fears is that Trumps administration may cut a deal to end the conflict with Putin at Ukraines expense. Thats a fear fueled by Trumps repeated calls for a more conciliatory policy toward Moscow.

Poroshenko will use this opportunity to clearly explain to Trump the Ukrainian position on Crimea and eastern Ukraine, "so that he could use this information in subsequent negotiations with Putin," Fesenko said.

Financial Support And Business Deals

Washington is Kyivs biggest financial backer, providing around $4 billion in direct aid and loan guarantees since the conflict with Russia erupted in 2014 through 2016. If Poroshenko wants to keep it that way, he will have to prove to Trump that U.S. support for Ukraine is a worthy investment, Haran said.

"It is important for Trump to have visible results," Haran said.

For that, Poroshenko will be able to boast of the many reforms carried out that earned Ukrainians visa-free travel to most European Union countries.

Poroshenko, himself a businessman, will likely try to appeal to Trumps love for great business deals, Haran said.

"He can say that stability in Ukraine also benefits American companies doing business in Ukraine" or those that are considering doing business there, Haran said.

Answering The Big Question

But Poroshenko could do all of those things and still come up short if he cant do one very important thing, Galeotti said.

The Ukrainian president must provide Trump with an answer to a question posed recently by Tillerson to European diplomats in April: Why should U.S. taxpayers care about Ukraine?

"The most important thing Poroshenko can do is convince Trump that Ukraine matters," Galeotti said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-poroshenko -trump-meeting-russia-putin- sanctions-weapons/28564992.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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Nokia's "Healthier Together" VR spot immerses viewers in a real home environment, with a real family, enjoying the benefits of the new line up of Nokia digital health products

"Healthier Together" is an evolution of digital advertising allowing consumers to discover, interact with and make purchases within a VR experience with an industry first e-commerce component

19 June 2017

Espoo, Finland - Premiering at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Nokia Technologies unveiled "Healthier Together", a first-of-its-kind immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience for consumers to discover its new portfolio of digital health products. The VR campaign advances digital advertising, allowing consumers to not only discover Nokia's new digital health products and solutions, but to interact with them and, in a first for VR, make purchases directly through an immersive experience which highlights a family's journey to being healthier together.

Created in partnership with innovation marketing agency Brandwidth, the "Healthier Together" VR ad was created using Nokia's own award winning OZO+ camera and software which enable the high-quality content capture and seamless production of immersive VR experiences for advertising and marketing professionals. It features Mixed Reality pop-up views of the Nokia Health Mate app and descriptions of the products, in addition to a first-of-its-kind e-commerce integration in which viewers can click through the pop-ups to the Nokia Health site and purchase the products directly.

"Nokia is launching the broadest range of consumer digital health products on the market and we wanted to show how easy it is to live 'healthier together' with them. VR was the natural choice to immerse the viewer in a real environment with a real family and Brandwidth have been great partners in realizing that vision," said Rob Le Bras-Brown, CMO of Nokia Technologies. "I'm especially proud of this new campaign because it exemplifies the breadth of innovation at Nokia today - using award winning OZO VR technology to showcase our exciting new health products."

The VR ad experience kicks off the 'Healthier Together' marketing campaign that will support the launch of Nokia digital health products. The full portfolio will include Nokia branded smart watches, connected scales, blood pressure monitors and other consumer health devices that will be available in store and online in key markets worldwide.

"We are truly excited to be working with Nokia and the brilliant OZO+ VR camera and Creator software in producing this revolutionary new immersive advertising piece for the launch of the innovative Nokia health products," said Matt Littler, Brandwidth Head of Moving Image. "Our Nokia VR ad allows viewers to explore and reveal details of the products within the content and go on to purchase with built in e-commerce and payment functionality. This marks a shift in advertising; gone is the 'created' reality of standard media, and now we have a far deeper level of truth, that we invite you to see the products in real time, first hand!"

Attendees of the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity can demo "Healthier Together VR" firsthand and learn more about the campaign during the "Innovations in Media & Advertising Using VR" chat series featuring executives from both Nokia and Brandwidth.

About Nokia

We create the technology to connect the world. Powered by the research and innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we serve communications service providers, governments, large enterprises and consumers, with the industry's most complete, end-to-end portfolio of products, services and licensing.

From the enabling infrastructure for 5G and the Internet of Things, to emerging applications in virtual reality and digital health, we are shaping the future of technology to transform the human experience. www.nokia.com

About Brandwidth

Brandwidth is a creative marketing agency with in-house expertise in brand development, virtual reality and traditional filmmaking, research and analytics, experiential and digital production with offices located in the United Kingdom and United States. Brandwidth has championed innovation since their first VR project in 1999, through apps, connected cars and wearable technology.

Media Enquiries

Nokia

Communications

Phone: +358 10 448 4900

Email: press.services@nokia.com
Vancouver. British Columbia (FSCwire) - Kings Bay Gold Corporation (TSX.V: KBG), (FSE: KGB1), operating as Kings Bay, a mining exploration and development company based in Vancouver Canada, is pleased to announce that after an in depth analysis of Geotech Ltd.s VTEM geophysical survey, a high priority electromagnetic target has been located at Kings Bays 100% owned Lynx Lake Copper-Cobalt Project in southeastern Labrador.

After the data compilation and analysis of Geotech Ltd.s. helicopter-borne Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic System (VTEM), Kings Bays technical team has identified a shallow anomaly of high resistivity in what is known as the west pit which is directly adjacent to the Trans-Labrador Highway. The size of the anomaly is anticipated to be ranging in depth from 50-300 meters and estimated to be approximately 400 meters in diameter. The west pit has been historically sampled yielding assays of up to 1.03% Copper, 0.56% Cobalt, 0.23% Vanadium, 0.10% Nickel and 5.0g/t Silver.

Exploration Program

Kings Bay plans to assemble a technical field team immediately to investigate the VTEM anomaly. This summers program will be completed by executing a more local, higher resolution ground geophysical survey followed by potential stripping of overburden to the south of the pit so bedrock can be exposed. In addition to this, a reconnaissance team will begin to investigate the southeastern portion of the property to follow up on the anomalous historical soil samples. Detailed mapping and sampling in the two pits will aid in understanding of mineralization controls.

Kevin Bottomley states The positive identification of an anomaly in the west pit will allow Kings Bay to initiate a highly focused exploration program at Lynx Lake with a relatively low cost. This is exactly what we were hoping for when we initiated the VTEM program with Geotech.

About VTEM

The helicopter-borne Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic System (VTEM) has a penetration depth of over 800 m, with a low Base Frequency (30Hz) for penetration through conductive overburden cover, coupled with a 2-3 meters High Spatial Resolution. This system is advertised to be able to delineate potential drill hole targets from the airborne results. In addition, it also has excellent resistivity discrimination to enable the detection of weak anomalies.

Lynx Lake Project

The Lynx Lake Copper-Cobalt Property consists of 959 mineral claims encompassing a land area of approximately 240 square kilometers, located 100 kilometers southeast of Happy Valley Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador. Historic grab sampling on the property has returned samples assaying up to 1.39% Cu, 0.94% Co, 0.21% Ni and 6.5g/t Ag. Government regional low resolution residual magnetic surveys and preliminary handheld electromagnetic surveys done by local prospectors have shown strong conductors beneath the overburden, and provide incentive to explore the area further for additional subsurface mineralization. The Project is located directly adjacent to a 3 phase powerline and the Trans-Labrador Highway.

NI 43 101 Disclosure

Edward Lyons, P. Geo. supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release and is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43 101.

About Kings Bay

Kings Bay is focused on the exploration of cobalt and other high tech metals in North America. The Company believes in this emerging fast growth sector and will continue to seek out and evaluate properties that show promise for development. Kings Bay Gold Corp is operating as Kings Bay.

On Behalf of the Board

Kevin Bottomley CEO, President

For Investment Inquiries please contact:

Brad Hoeppner Director

O: 604 681 1568

E: Brad@kingsbayres.com

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. 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 may not raise sufficient funds to carry out our plans, changing costs for mining and processing; increased capital costs; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations based on current data that 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 that with further test work may not be comparable; 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 mine cannot be obtained. 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/kingsbay06192017.pdfSource: King's Bay Gold Corporation (TSX Venture:KBG)

To follow King's Bay Gold Corporation on your favorite social media platform or financial websites, please click on the icons below.

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Copyright  2017 Filing Services Canada Inc.
TORONTO, June 19, 2017 /CNW/ - Orefinders Resources Inc. ("Orefinders" or the "Company") (TSX.V: ORX) is pleased to announce the details of its Annual General Meeting ('AGM') to be held at 10:00am Eastern Time, July 13, 2017 at its offices at 2500  120 Adelaide Street West, in Toronto. Management encourages all shareholders to attend and hear a presentation on the Company's asset and plan going forward which will follow the AGM procedures.

As a part of the mailing sent to all shareholders with AGM details, management provided a Report to Shareholders which is reproduced below.

Orefinders 2017 Report to Shareholders

2016 was a milestone year for Orefinders. The company successfully exited the prolonged mining and metals industry downturn which significantly impacted the company's ability to move its flagship Mirado project forward. Now Orefinders is financially stable with a clear plan to move forward. The Orefinders team sees a bright future ahead for the Mirado and our shareholders. It is our pleasure to write this report and provide shareholders with our plan for the 2017 upcoming year.

Orefinders 12 Month Plan Going Forward

Publish PEA & Updated Resource Calculation on Mirado Open Pit High Grade Zone

In the coming months, Orefinders is working to complete the Mirado's updated resource calculation and Preliminary Economic Assessment ('PEA') to delineate the economics of restarting its open pit mine using a toll milling scenario. This new resource calculation and PEA report will incorporate only a small portion of the Mirado Project itself as it will evaluate solely the high-grade zones within the Open Pit that are close to surface and which we view as minable in the near term. Upon defining the economics of restarting the Mirado Open Pit, the company will move towards permitting and ultimately a production decision. Management would like to note that, while the updated resource calculation and corresponding PEA will apply to less than 5% of the Mirado land package, the Company sees tremendous potential to explore the remaining targets. However, we are operating in a high cost of capital environment and must allocate our capital accordingly. The Company's plan is to generate its own cash flow from the Open Pit so that it can finance further exploration while maintaining its current capital structure as much as possible.

Two Fully Permitted Drill Programs

The South Zone drill program is our priority. Its purpose will be to join Mirado's Open Pit (South Zone) and the MZ Zone (the Open Pit's western extension). The two zones are approximately 300 metres apart with identical geology and mineralization which we confirmed in our 2014 trenching results. The company believes these two zones can be connected via infill drilling that will expand minable ounces near surface. The North Zone VMS mineralization geology is distinct from the Open Pit/South Zone and is also unique to the Kirkland Lake camp. The North Zone was mined from underground in the 1940's and the Company sees the North Zone having similarities to the Laronde/Bousquet deposits in Val D'Or. With the South Zone's Open Pit being the priority, Orefinders drilled only a few drill holes in 2013's drill program which returned excellent results that warrant further drilling. The North Zone offers substantial exploration upside, see results from Orefinders 2013 North Zone Drill Program below, and as reported in our March 16, 2017 News Release.

HOLE INTERVAL GRADE FROM TO # (m) (g/t Au) (m) (m) MD13-08 17.5 2.41 73.9 91.4 incl. 3.1 6.68 79.3 82.4 MD13-10 3.7 6.68 12.5 16.2 MD13-10 5.5 4.05 114.8 120.3 MD13-10 19.5 3.65 265.2 284.7 incl. 4.5 6.5 265.2 269.7 and incl. 6 6.32 278.7 284.7 MD13-25 6 6.27 48 54 MD13-26 5.7 4.31 291.5 297.2

Creating investor awareness

Orefinders has been under the radar over the last two years as it righted its course from its 2015 share price low. Management believes that market awareness is one factor that may separate us from our peers with much larger market capitalizations. In early 2014 Orefinders was valued at $0.70 per share. Shortly thereafter the Company's value had a steady decline to a penny, and was then largely dismissed by the market. With the Company's balance sheet strengthened and a clear plan in place to advance a well-established asset in a world class district, we believe our message will resonate with investors.

Drill Bits

As a part of Orefinders' initiative to create investor awareness, as well as transparency for all shareholders and stakeholders, we have initiated a new program called Drill Bits. Drill Bits is a series of informational videos aimed at educating our shareholders about Orefinders' assets and day-to-day operations. Since launching Drill Bits we received tremendous feedback from shareholders who appreciate these videos along with encouragement to keep up the content, which we pledge to do. The videos are available at www.orefinders.ca/drill-bits and the Company sees these videos as a way to communicate directly with existing and prospective shareholders in a low cost and innovative manner.

Annual General Meeting

Our AGM will be held on July 13, 2017 at our offices at 2500  120 Adelaide Street West in Toronto. We encourage all shareholders to attend. Enclosed with this letter you will find the AGM materials and the Proxy form. We would appreciate your support at the meeting either in person or by proxy.

Contact Orefinders Management

We encourage shareholders to reach out directly to management and we make every attempt to respond to our shareholders promptly. Orefinders' CEO, Stephen Stewart, can be reached at 416-644-1567 or sstewart@orefinders.ca.

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. Certain information in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Orefinders' assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Orefinders. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in filings by Orefinders with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available under Orefinders' profile at www.sedar.com.

For information and updates on Orefinders, please visit: www.orefinders.ca

And please follow us on Twitter @OrefindersR

SOURCE Orefinders Resources Inc.
Exploration Underway At Lower 44

MIRAMICHI, NB, June 19, 2017 /CNW/ - SLAM Exploration Ltd. (TSXV: SXL) ("SLAM" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has mobilized an excavator to its Lower 44 property located in the Bathurst Mining Camp ("BMC") of New Brunswick, Canada. The location is 20 km west of the former producing Brunswick No. 12 mine owned by Glencore and 18 km south of the Caribou mine owned and operated by Trevali Mining Corp. The property is host to 4 volcanogenic massive sulphide ("VMS") occurrences including the former Wedge copper mine, the West Wedge zone, the Essex zone and the Tribag zone.

The excavator will dig for zinc-lead-silver mineralization in a series of trenches designed to test the strike extent of the West Wedge zone, the Essex zone and the Tribag zone. The trenching program is designed to expand upon positive drilling results by previous workers. The best drilling intercept to date is a 3.8 m core length grading 12.9% zinc, 5.35% lead, 0.78% copper, 70.6 g/tonne silver and 1.37 g/t gold reported from the West Wedge zone in 1983. The program will start from the known mineral occurrences and test for potential extensions indicated by soil geochemical anomalies and airborne geophysical conductors. These targets all occur within multiple fold repetitions of favourable strata that extend westward from the Wedge mine.

Joint Venture/Earn-In Opportunity: SLAM has a portfolio of zinc-lead-silver properties available for joint venture or earn-in agreements in the Bathurst Mining Camp of New Brunswick. These include Lower 44, Connector, Costigan and other properties with mineral potential demonstrated by previous drilling results as well as airborne and ground geophysical and geochemical surveys. For additional information, call Mike Taylor 506-623-8960.

About SLAM Exploration Ltd:

SLAM is a project generating Resource Company with a portfolio of gold, base metal and lithium projects in the mineral-rich Province of New Brunswick where SLAM's main focus is the wholly-owned Menneval gold project. SLAM holds an NSR royalty on the Superjack and Nash Creek zinc?lead?copper?silver deposits and owns a portfolio of base metal properties in the Bathurst Mining Camp ("BMC"). The Company intends to utilize its extensive BMC mineral database to explore and develop properties in this historic region of mineral potential. SLAM also owns the Cumberland lithium project in southeastern New Brunswick. Other gold projects include the Reserve Creek and Miminiska gold projects in Ontario. Additional information about SLAM and its projects is available at www.slamexploration.com or from SEDAR filings at www.sedar.com. Follow us on twitter @SLAMGold.

Qualifying Statements: Mike Taylor, P.Geo. President and CEO of SLAM Exploration Ltd., as the Qualified Person, approves the scientific and technical disclosure in the news release.

Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information, including statements that address the Private Placement, the closing of the Private Placement, future production, reserve potential, exploration and development activities and events or developments that the Company expects. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to the Company. There are a number of risk factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those described herein. Information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com. 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.

SOURCE SLAM Exploration Ltd.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Jun 19, 2017) - Riverside Resources Inc. ("Riverside" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE:RRI)(OTC PINK:RVSDF)(FRANKFURT:R99), has completed an initial nine-hole diamond core drilling program at the 4 km2 Pitaya Target within the 36 km Glor Gold Project (the "Project"), which is being explored with funding by partner, Centerra Gold Inc. ("Centerra"). The Project hosts five key target areas and is located approximately 8 km west of Alamos Gold's El Chanate Mine in Sonora, Mexico. The recently completed drill program focused on the Pitaya Target located in the north-eastern sector of the Project, which had been defined by partner-funded soil geochemistry and induced polarization geophysical surveys and then further investigated with mechanical trenching and chip-channel sampling (see Company press releases issued on February 15 and April 17, 2017).

Assay results have now been received for all nine drill-holes, which together total 1,942 metres in length. The longest hole was 285 metres. Drill-hole GL17-002D yielded the best intersection of gold mineralization of the campaign: 11.0 metres averaging 0.591 grams gold per tonne (g/t Au) starting at 122 metres down the inclined drill-hole. The highest gold value included in this assay interval is 1.415 g/t Au over 1.0 metre of core. The other eight drill-holes intersected sporadic thin zones of gold mineralization that generally graded less than 0.4 g/t Au across 1.0 metre, with the best of these intercepts being a 2.0 metre interval in GL17-004D that averaged 0.466 g/t Au.

Riverside's President and CEO, John-Mark Staude, stated: "Given the trench sampling intervals gave disseminated gold values in the range of 0.5-1 g/t Au at the Pitaya Target, we are surprised that this initial drill campaign didn't manage to replicate these results. We've been mapping and sampling the larger Glor tenement finding numerous areas with gold and remain positive on the Project's potential. So far we've developed five target areas and have only trenched and drilled one. The four additional target areas will be field sampled and worked on in the coming months to determine if another drill program will be pursued."

Figure 1 below displays the location of the Pitaya Target in relation to the other four target areas that remain undrilled at the Glor Project. Figure 2 is an enlargement of the Pitaya Target area showing the locations of drill-hole collars and surface traces with respect to the trenches that were excavated and sampled just prior to the commencement of drilling.

To view Figure 1: Map of the 5 Target Areas at the Glor Project, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097525_Figure1.pdf

Additional Drill Program Details:

The gold assay results for the 9-hole drilling campaign are in general weaker than the assay results that were obtained from the chip-channel samples collected from the trenches in the immediate area of the Pitaya drill-holes. A possible explanation for the discrepancy between the drilling and trench sampling results is that the extensive mineralization sampled on surface transect in trenches Tr-01 and Tr-02 occurs in a zone of altered andesite that is exposed along an easterly inclined dip-slope in the local topography. (Drill-hole G17-002D appears to have perpendicularly intersected the subsurface down-dip continuation of this zone of gold mineralization (see Figure 2) indicating a true thickness of approximately 11 meters.



To view Figure 2: Compilation map of the north-eastern sector of the Glor Project showing Au-in-soil anomaly, drill holes and trenches completed at the Pitaya Target, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1097525_Figure2.pdf

There is a spatial relationship between gold and arsenic (As) at the Pitaya Target, where core samples having gold concentrations greater than 0.3 g/t Au are seen to have As contents of 5,000 ppm and greater. The drill-hole sample containing 1.415 g/t Au showed an As content of >10,000 ppm As. This feature is similar to other orogenic gold systems in north-western, Sonora and indicates the district is the type of region that could be fertile for a new gold discovery.

Although the drilling of the Pitaya target area did not produce an economically significant discovery, much has been improved in the understanding of controls on gold mineralization, which are now being applied to the overall Glor Project. Project geologists are in the field investigating other geochemical survey anomalies on the Project with the objective of refining existing target areas and defining new high-potential drill targets. Particular attention will be given to the rock and soil geochemistry, structural geology, ground magnetic data and utilizing induced polarization as a tool to refine the targets. Fieldwork will continue to be funded by Centerra through the next quarter and, if sufficiently prospective gold targets are generated, a second round of drilling will possibly be completed before the end of the year.

Qualified Person and QA/QC:

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the Glor Project was reviewed and prepared under the supervision of Locke Goldsmith, P. Eng., P. Geo., a non-independent qualified person to Riverside Resources who is responsible for ensuring that the geologic information provided in this news release is accurate and acts as a "qualified person" under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

All drill cores were photographed, geologically logged and then sawed in half to provide samples for gold assaying and multi-element ICP mass spectrometry analysis, which was done by Bureau Veritas' laboratories in Hermosillo, Mexico and Vancouver, Canada, respectively. A total of 1,246 core samples were analysed, with individual samples having core lengths of 1.0 m or 3.0 m, depending on the presence or absence of visible hydrothermal alteration. For quality assurance and control purposes 48 non-mineralized 'blank' samples and 83 standard samples were included with the batches of core samples that were analysed.

About Riverside Resources Inc.:

Riverside is a well-funded prospect generator exploration company with over $5,000,000 in the bank and a tight share structure with fewer than 45M shares issued. Riverside leverages its 77,000 location Mexico mineral database, highly experienced and dedicated technical team and partnership network to acquire and develop high-potential projects. The Company increases the chances of discovery by advancing multiple assets simultaneously through partnerships, allowing Riverside to mitigate risk and conserve capital. Riverside has a diverse portfolio of gold, silver and copper properties throughout North America. Riverside has additional properties available for option with more information available on the Company's website at www.rivres.com.

ON BEHALF OF Riverside Resources Inc.

Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO

Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology (e.g., "expect"," estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "plans"). Such information involves known and unknown risks -- including the availability of funds, the results of financing and exploration activities, the interpretation of exploration results and other geological data, or unanticipated costs and expenses and other risks identified by Riverside in its public securities filings that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date 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.
Vancouver, BC (FSCwire) - Miranda Gold Corp. ("Miranda") (TSX-V: MAD) is pleased to announce it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Argelia Project from Bullet Holding Group (Bullet) for payments and retained interests.

Argelia represents Mirandas focus on adding to its portfolio, robust epithermal gold systems that display numerous subparallel veins, which commonly show high gold values from systematic channel sampling. Eighteen or more distinct veins are observed in surveyed historic workings on the project - with ten showing sample values of greater than 10 g Au/t up to 109 g Au/t from 0.5 meters to 4 meters sampled vein widths. The best sample returned 20.5 g Au/t over 4 meters in a historic crosscut. Approximately 100 meters vertically below this crosscut, there is another adit on the same vein showing one meter at 20 g Au/t, suggesting that a mineralized shoot may exist between the two levels. Public records report that a private British company mined on the project prior to 1950 in the area of the upper crosscut and lower adit.

The veins appear to be distributed sub-parallel across a regional-scale, 2-kilometer northeast-trending shear zone and exposures extend for 8 kilometers along strike. The veins strike at an oblique angle to the shear zone and may be emplaced in dilational structures, secondary to the main shear. Veins are only noted in workings, and it is likely that significantly more veins are unexposed across the shear zone. The style of mineralization and associated metals suggest that Argelia is an intermediate sulfidation (IS) epithermal system.

Argelia joins Mirandas Cerro Oro, Mallama, and San Lucas projects; all characterized by epithermal veins with significant vein density and extent, and common high grade channel samples. Since Colombia has recently permitted three underground mines for full production, Miranda feels it is prudent to hold robust underground targets as part of its portfolio. The selection of these particular projects follows several years of exploration and evaluation by Miranda.

Buritica analog vein systems are still the exploration holy grail in Colombia, as evidenced by the recent strategic investment totaling $134 million by Newmont Mining Corp. and Red Kite Mine Finance in Continental Gold Ltd. While with work to date, only San Lucas is clearly a Carbonate Base Metal (CBM) gold system similar to Buritica, all of Mirandas vein projects were screened for the potential to deliver future major company production profiles and resources. As Colombia appears to be quickly drawing interest from major mining companies, this character is important for Mirandas Prospect Generator-Joint Venture business model.

The Argelia Project totals 5,400 hectares in three exploration applications, and is 145km or about four-hours by road from Medellin, within the Antioquia Department. No indigenous lands impact the project. However, the project requires subtraction from the forestry reserve - as do all applications granted under the Second Law - and they then must be converted to title. This work will begin immediately.

The Argelia acquisition is a result of Mirandas sampling (including work by Bullet) and reconnaissance evaluations during the last resource market down-cycle. Miranda has maintained an active presence in Colombia, while waiting for quality projects to become available and for security risks in certain areas to become more manageable - as a result of the armistice that was signed between the Colombian government and opposition groups.

Agreement Details

The terms of this agreement require that Miranda make the following series of payments and a share issuance  all based on the occurrence of the following events:

Event Issuance of Mirada shares Payment amount US$ By June 22, 2017 - 100,000 As soon as practicable (following TSXV approval) the issuance of US$100,000 equivalent in Miranda common shares 1,624,270 shares at $0.08178 - Upon conversion of the applications to titles - 100,000 Upon receipt of approval for forestry subtraction  or  Miranda making drill applications for any of the titles - 100,000 Upon receipt of drill permits - 100,000 Upon announcement of an NI 43-101 resource of >500,000 oz/au total in all categories (M+I+I) - 250,000 One year from the announcement of an NI 43-101 resource of >500,000 oz/au - 250,000

A residual net profits interest (NPI) of 4% - or  a residual net smelter royalty (NSR) of 1.5% - whichever is greater - will be payable to the vendor, until US$6.0m has been paid - at which time an NSR of 1.5% will be payable for the life of the mine.

There are no minimum work commitments on Argelia, and there is no area of influence restrictions for Miranda any adjacent property.

About Miranda

Miranda is a gold Prospect Generator active in Alaska and Colombia, whose emphasis is on acquiring gold exploration projects with world-class discovery potential. Miranda performs its own grass roots exploration and then employs a joint venture business model on its projects to maximize our exposure to discovery and minimize exploration risk. Miranda has ongoing relationships with IAMGold Corp., Gold Torrent, Inc., and Montezuma Mines Inc.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joseph (Joe) Hebert, Chief Executive Officer

+1-775-340-0450

Email: joseph.hebert75@gmail.com

www.mirandagold.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 contains forward-looking statements that are based on the Company's current expectations and estimates. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results implied or expressed in such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others: the actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans to continue to be refined; possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates; accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing; and fluctuations in metal prices. There may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

Notice to US investors:

U.S. investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on our properties. We advise U.S. investors that the SEC's mining guidelines strictly prohibit information of this type in documents filed with the SEC.

This press release may use the terms measured resources, "indicated resources" and "inferred resources", which are estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Classification system. We advise investors that while those terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. In addition, "Inferred resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in certain exceptional cases. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally minable.

To view this press release as a PDF file, click onto the following link:public://news_release_pdf/Miranda06192017.pdfSource: Miranda Gold Corp. (TSX Venture:MAD)

To follow Miranda Gold Corp. on your favorite social media platform or financial websites, please click on the icons below.

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Copyright  2017 Filing Services Canada Inc.
Shortly after President Donald Trump's inauguration, the administration made waves by revoking President Barack Obama's guidance for transgender students.The Obama guidelines required schools to let transgender students use the bathrooms and locker rooms according to their stated gender identity, or provide them with private facilities.At the time, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos said that such students do receive civil rights protections, and that her office would be releasing an update on how they could be implemented.Those new guidelines were made public on Friday, and are dated June 6. The letter, written by acting assistant secretary for civil rights Candice Jackson, said officers should use court decisions and these guidelines in assessing gender discrimination, whether or not students identify as transgender. Advocates have major questions about what the guidelines mean in practice.The memo lists specific instances where officers could have specific jurisdiction, such as failure to use a student's preferred pronoun or a school or district's failure to fix an environment that is hostile toward transgender students. Investigations into transgender students being denied the right to use the bathrooms of their choice is not on that list _ and the memo states that based on jurisdiction, some complaints might go forward while others, involving bathrooms, might be dismissed.According to HuffPost, an employee familiar with the guidance interpreted it as a return to the policies of the Bush administration, which did not explicitly emphasize one set of concerns over another.In a statement, Jackson said some cases were left in limbo by the administration's revocation. "It was very important to the Secretary that our investigators not make the mistake of assuming that just because this particular guidance has been rescinded that all complaints by transgender students are going to be dismissed by OCR," she said. She added that investigators should "individually examine every complaint."The Obama guidance had been questioned in court, and a Texas judge blocked its implementation. In light of the Trump administration's revocation of the Obama guidelines, the U.S. Supreme Court in March vacated a case in which a transgender student in Virginia sought the right to use the boys' bathroom.Catherine Lhamon, who wrote Obama's transgender rules, says the new letter is "dangerous" for transgender students because it provides language for officers to dismiss cases before they even investigate them. "It says you have jurisdiction over sex discrimination and sex stereotyping, but here's how you could dismiss it," she said. "They can't have it both ways."She added that she has heard about bathroom-access cases that have been filed and closed without an investigation since the June letter was issued.Former OCR deputy assistant secretary Dianne Piche said the letter is confusing. "If the regional offices no longer need to check in with headquarters, and are given the OK to process cases as they see fit, we will easily end up with inconsistent outcomes among similar cases across the country," she said.Similarly, Eliza Byard, executive director of the LGBT group GLSEN, criticized the letter for lacking clarity. She called on OCR "to specify whether they will defend trans students' access to safe and appropriate school facilities  regardless of where the student lives or what local protections may or may not exist."
Citizens United

'Most money spent'

A fine line

For supporters of Democratic mayoral candidate Joel Ford -- or opponents of Mayor Jennifer Roberts -- the sales pitch was clear.Donate to a new "social welfare" organization called Queen City Leadership, the group said in an email solicitation, and you can make "unlimited" personal or corporate contributions. The "confidential" donations are reported only to the Internal Revenue Service and "not for public review."In a first for a Charlotte mayoral election, at least two independent, tax-exempt "social welfare" groups plan to influence the mayor's race -- while allowing donors to give as much as they want without the public knowing.It's another signal that after a year that put the city and Roberts in the national spotlight, this year's mayoral race could see record spending. She faces Ford, a state senator, and Mayor Pro Tem Vi Lyles in the Democratic primary.Queen City Leadership, which supports Ford, told prospective donors it plans to use TV, direct mail and digital advertising to tell voters "about the stark differences between the candidates for Mayor." The group plans to spend money early, "before the candidates can use their limited resources."Another group, Forward Charlotte, was created in late 2016 for "citizens who are committed to restoring our city's identity and crafting a vision for her promising future." It's led by a Republican strategist, Mark Knoop.On its website, the group does not mention Republican mayoral candidate Kenny Smith by name, but it has released a web video calling on voters to "elect new leaders." The video shows Roberts speaking to reporters while a narrator says politicians have played "cynical games in the halls of power."Supporters of the two organizations said the local business community wants a voice in the race, and is worried it won't be heard over national and state liberal groups like the Washington, D.C.-based Human Rights Campaign and Equality NC, two gay rights groups.The IRS has said the 501(c)(4)s are "social welfare organizations," which the federal government says is to "further the common good and general welfare of the people of the community."The groups can engage in political activities though that can't be their primary purpose.The tax-exempt 501(c)(4) groups are named for the federal tax code that sanctions them. They began proliferating nationwide after the U.S. Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United decision, which allowed unlimited spending by corporations and labor unions in elections.For donors, the benefit is that someone is not bound by N.C. fundraising limits, which are now $5,200 per person, per election. In addition, donations to the tax-exempt groups are private and are only disclosed to the Internal Revenue Service.In past elections, a developer with a project before the city would have a maximum political donation of $5,200 that would be public. With a social welfare organization, the same developer could donate $50,000 -- with no one knowing.Candidates are not supposed to coordinate with the organizations, but in theory a candidate could know informally who has donated to a group that supports them."The c(4)s are just mystery land for voters," said Bob Hall of Democracy North Carolina, which advocates for more transparency in elections and in state and local government. "They aren't supposed to coordinate with the candidate, but a candidate could be at their fundraiser. It's unbelievable."In the past, numerous political action committees called super PACs have been involved in local elections, and still are today. For instance, the N.C. Property Rights Fund has already sent mailers for Ford. Those organizations have no fundraising limits, but they have to disclose their donors.Political consultant Michael Halle, who worked on Democrat Anthony Foxx's 2011 mayoral reelection campaign, said he hasn't heard of social welfare groups working in Charlotte mayor races before.He said there is only one reason to have such an organization instead of a traditional political action committee -- anonymity."If someone wants to get around the funding cap you can easily get around the cap (with an independent political action committee)," he said. "The (social welfare organization) is to prevent donors from being disclosed."If you are worth $30 million and it's easy to stroke a $50,000 check, then it's much easier to write it than to try to get 10 friends together and to beg for their money. This gives you the opportunity to write that check."Knoop, who leads Forward Charlotte, wouldn't say how much his group hopes to raise. But he said if Roberts wins the primary, a general election between her and Smith would shatter records for raising money in a Charlotte mayor's race. In the 2009 election, Republican John Lassiter and Foxx raised more than $1 million combined."What's safe to say is that there will be more money spent than ever has been in a Charlotte mayoral race," he said.Roberts' opponents expect her to receive financial support from groups like the Washington D.C.-based Human Rights Campaign, which supported her opposition to HB2. But there are no 501(c)(4) groups currently aligned with Roberts' campaign.Roberts was in Dallas this week for the Charlotte Chamber's annual inter-city visit and couldn't be reached. Her campaign manager Sam Spencer said Roberts will have more donations from Charlotteans than any other candidate."Outside special interests with ties to the Republican leadership in Raleigh are trying to buy the mayor's office, taking it out of the hands of Charlotte voters," Spencer said. "Joel Ford has given Charlotte a clear choice between a candidate who sides with Republicans in Raleigh, and Jennifer Roberts, a mayor who fights for Charlotte by creating jobs, helping our youth, and fighting for our values."Ford said in an interview that he has had no contact with Queen City Leadership, the group supporting him."They make their own determination as to who they will support or who they won't support," he said.He said Roberts has significant support from outside Charlotte, pointing to groups like the Human Rights Campaign. He said "people are tired" of outside groups being involved in local politics.Queen City Leadership, however, asks that people send donations to a Raleigh address that's home to Kohn Associates, a PR and fundraising group, and the leader of the organization, Neil Kammerman, is a Raleigh-based political consultant.Ford said the issue of who had the first outside support is a "chicken or the egg" debate.Lyles has been endorsed by Democracy for America, a PAC founded by former Democratic National Committee chair Howard Dean. She said the group plans to help her reach voters."I am the person with the most experience at the local level in this race," she said. "The connection to people is what's going to make the difference."Smith said he's not affiliated with Forward Charlotte.When asked why groups like Forward Charlotte are now getting involved in the Charlotte election, Smith said he believed local business people are concerned that "the HRC and national interests are driving and pushing local legislation."The social welfare organizations must walk a fine line between advertising about general issues like crime or the economy versus throwing their specific support for a candidate.They can openly engage in political activities, but raising money for a candidate or running a commercial on their behalf must be their secondary mission, the IRS has said. That's been interpreted as being less than half of their expenditures.Joe Padilla of the Real Estate Building Industry Coalition in Charlotte was planning to host Queen City Leadership next week for a fundraiser.Padilla told the Observer the group is "not specifically supporting Joel Ford." He said "they are highlighting the need for pro-business leadership in the Mayor's office."But in an email to REBIC members, Padilla invited them "to hear from a team of campaign consultants working on an independent expenditure effort to engage in the 2017 Charlotte Mayoral election in support of Joel Ford."And Queen City Leadership itself says it's "supporting Joel Ford for Mayor."The REBIC fundraiser has been postponed.Kammerman, who leads Queen City Leadership, worked on Roberts' 2015 campaign, but has since broken ranks with her. He said Queen City Leadership was formed three months ago."Politics is not our primary activity," he said. "We are dedicated to making Charlotte a better place to live, work and raise a family."But the memo to donors only mentions a political focus. When asked by the Observer what the group has been doing that's not related to politics, Kammerman wouldn't say."I can't answer that now," he said. "I would like to talk about it more, and I will."Kammerman has also launched Citizens for a Better Charlotte, another PAC that's supporting Ford. Citizens for a Better Charlotte must disclose its donors."We are concerned about the direction Charlotte has taken in the past year and a half and how much bad press has been around the city," he said. "It's been a real embarrassment."In 2016, the Federal Elections Commission deadlocked in a 3-3 vote about investigating the social welfare group Carolina Rising, which spent nearly $5 million -- almost its entire budget -- on ads for Republican Thom Tillis in his 2014 Senate race.The N.C. Democratic Party said Carolina Rising blatantly and brazenly made politics its primary mission, even though the group was supposed to be a social welfare organization.Knoop's group, Forward Charlotte, recently released a web video titled, "Lights."It said the city's lights have begun to dim because of "politicians playing cynical games in the halls of power." As the narrator reads that line, video of Roberts appears. The ad also mentions that violent crime is increasing, and calls on voters to elect "new leaders" though it doesn't mention Smith by name or have his photo in the ad.Knoop said Forward Charlotte plans to remain active after the election.
If elected mayor of St. Paul, Tom Goldstein said he'll advocate for changes that could help prevent "injustice" like the "not guilty" verdict reached Friday in the trial of former St. Anthony Police Officer Jeronimo Yanez."With 'use of force' standards written the way that they are, this verdict was not unexpected," Goldstein wrote in his campaign blog. "Until those standards are changed, the message to the community will be that officers like Yanez can act with impunity when using deadly force on the job."He added later that more St. Paul police officers should reside in the city they serve. "Until they live here and they're part of our community, these things will not change," Goldstein told delegates to Saturday's St. Paul DFL convention at the Washington Technology Magnet School on Rice Street.Sombered by the jury decision in the Yanez trial and public reaction toward the shooting death of St. Paul Schools worker Philando Castile, St. Paul mayoral candidates and elected officials have weighed in on the verdict with varying intensity.Some have parsed their words carefully, urging street protesters to show restraint while expressing measured sympathy for their frustrations. Others have advocated openly for police reforms, and called the verdict an unacceptable miscarriage of justice."Philando Castile is dead and should not be," said gubernatorial candidate Erin Murphy, a DFL state representative from St. Paul, in a social media post calling for legal changes in police "use of force" laws. "Our society says that broken taillights and smoking marijuana can be crimes worthy of death if you're black."St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, another gubernatorial candidate, issued a statement Friday calling Castile "a son of St. Paul" and announcing three community conversations on race and police-community relations."Regardless of how you feel about the outcome, this is a difficult time in our community," Coleman said.Melvin Carter told delegates to the St. Paul DFL City convention on Saturday that he was the only mayoral candidate who had ever been pulled over for being black."This is a hard day for for me, and a heavy day for St. Paul," said Carter, who criticized the police tactics that resulted in heavy injury to Frank Baker in 2016, as well as the death of "Philando Castile, killed in his seat-belt with a 4-year-old girl in the back seat.""When our state Legislature is having more public hearings about stopping protests then stopping a shooting, no one is listening," he added.Carter advocated for greater diversity and accountability in the St. Paul Police Department. "It starts with a change in how we hire officers," Carter said. "You shouldn't have to find a fax machine or a stamp to offer feedback on an officer."Fellow mayoral candidate Dai Thao was introduced at the microphone by John Thompson, one of Castile's friends and co-workers.Thompson recounted how Thao, a city council member, argued to get St. Paul police officers removed from the Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission, among other reform efforts."Who did I see standing right next to me fighting? Dai Thao!" said Thompson, who is featured prominently on the candidate's latest campaign flier. "Let's put a leader in office."Thao, who has advocated for greater diversity in both police hiring and promotions, said he supported a new $18 million police training facility in St. Paul that will allow officers to practice split-second decision-making using virtual reality technology.Thao said that the best way to fight crime and improve relations is to ensure the African-American community has access to good jobs.Mayoral candidate Pat Harris, a former city council member, said he drove home Friday night through a city that felt "broken by distrust, confusion, and a feeling of being out of place."He said the mood at his home was emotional. "All six of us gathered and we hugged," Harris said. "We told our kids that we love them."Green Party mayoral candidate Elizabeth Dickinson said she was stunned by the outcome in the Yanez trial, which seemed headed toward a hung jury until the fifth day of deliberations."I share in the shock of the verdict," said Dickinson, by email, while acknowledging the case was vigorously prosecuted. "County Attorney John Choi showed personal courage by bypassing the grand jury system and personally prosecuting the case, opening up the system to the transparency and accountability the families deserve."She added later that police could benefit from more training on dealing with people with mental health issues, active listening and de-escalation, and young people would benefit from being invited to see how police are trained to challenge their own biases."More contact," she said, pointing to a police-youth improvisational comedy group that launched in Chicago.Tim Holden, who is running for mayor unaffiliated with a party, was not at the DFL convention but said by email that Yanez's use of force exceeded the level of threat, and the officer was "jumpy, overly nervous, with a rushed ... response."Added Holden: "Officer Yanez's response was excessive, unprofessional, guilty."Holden has advocated for weekly police-community meet-and-greets for all cops, mandatory de-escalation training and stepped up police mentoring of young people.Goldstein, who was eliminated from the DFL endorsement process after the second of multiple ballots, told the party convention the trial outcome was unacceptable. "Justice was clearly not served yesterday by the verdict in the Castile case," he said.
A group of Republican and Democratic governors are echoing President Donald Trump's criticism of a House GOP health care bill, saying it threatens coverage for the most vulnerable. Instead, they're asking Senate leaders to work together on an overhaul of Democrat Barack Obama's health care law.In a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, seven governors, including three moderate Republicans, argue that "true and lasting reforms are best approached by finding common ground in a bipartisan fashion." The governors implore the leaders to focus on stabilizing the individual insurance markets, give states flexibility and ensure affordable cover.The Associated Press obtained a copy of the letter Friday.The governors said they oppose the bill the House narrowly passed last month, citing its deep cuts to Medicaid, the federal-state health insurance program for low-income Americans.
In the sparsely populated state of Nevada, Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval and Democratic lawmakers have been striking one deal after another to address some of the most pressing problems with insurance marketplaces, immigrant health care and birth control. Meanwhile, the GOP Congress remains gridlocked in its negotiations to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA), President Obama's signature legislation.But the days of cross-party agreement on health care have reached a limit in Nevada.Earlier this month, the state's legislature passed a bill that would have made it the first in the nation to allow anyone -- regardless of their income -- to sign up on the marketplace for Medicaid, the government-run health program that's typically only offered to the poor and disabled. Sandoval, however, vetoed the Medicaid-for-all bill on Friday night, hours before the deadline.The governor's 11th-hour decision was partially a result of the national uncertainty surrounding health care. In his veto statement, he said the legislation "could introduce more uncertainty to an already fragile health-care market and ultimately affect patient health care." Sandoval also expressed concerns that the plan was being rushed "without factual foundation or adequate understanding of the possible consequences."The Medicaid-for-all concept is similar to the single-payer system of universal health care that liberals have pushed for years but have yet to see enacted anywhere in the country. California is the latest to grapple with whether and how to implement single-payer. Projections that it would cost California more than triple its annual budget and could trigger significant tax increases, however, may kill the attempt.Supporters of Medicaid-for-all, including the bill's sponsor, Assemblyman Mike Sprinkle, argued it would have cost less than single-payer. Sprinkle also told NPR it was a response to uncertainty in Washington.There is an absolute need for states to become more reliant on providing insurance options to its citizens," he said.If Congress replaces the ACA with the most recent version of the American Health Care Act, 24 million Americans would lose coverage within 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Health experts say the replacement plan also would have stunted Nevada's Medicaid-for-all plan."Its an innovative approach that might also be of interest to other states," says Jessica Schubel, senior policy analyst with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, "but it clearly rests on the base of a strong Medicaid program and robust marketplace subsidies -- both of which are in danger."The stability of the insurance marketplace, however, is one of several health-care issues in which Nevada has taken innovative steps to address in the past few months.Many major insurers have stopped offering plans in counties and states across the country, leaving thousands of people with few -- in some cases, zero -- options for health care. To incentivize insurers to stay in or join its marketplace, Nevada told insurers that their applications for Medicaid contracts would get preferential treatment if they also sold plans on the marketplace -- and it's already paying off.Nevada is the only state where Aetna is still going to offer coverage in 2018. This fall, Nevadans shopping on the exchanges will have five insurance options. In addition, premiums are expected to be lower than the national average.New York's governor, Democrat Andrew Cuomo, set a similar policy to Sandoval's earlier this month but with a much heavier hand. He took Sandoval's policy one step further and vowed to ban insurers from Medicaid if they don't offer plans on the exchange.On the issue of birth control, Sandoval recently signed a bill that will make it easier for women to get contraceptives. The new law requires insurers to offer a 12-month supply at one time, with no co-payment. Several other states -- including Maryland Oregon and Washington, D.C. -- have similar laws.Nevada has also made moves, along with 31 other states, to speed up the process for offering government-run health care to children of low-income immigrants, green card holders and refugees. On Thursday, Sandoval signed a bill that -- if approved by the Trump administration -- would end the five-year waiting period.Sandoval is known for beinga centrist, especially when it comes to health care. He was one of the first Republican governors to expand Medicaid under the ACA and has since lobbied Congress to keep that part of the ACA the way it is because its been beneficial to Nevada. Under the ACA, states that offer Medicaid to more people receive money from the federal government to help cover the extra costs. The AHCA, the Republican replacement bill, would phase out that money over several years.No matter where one stands on the issues, Nevadas bipartisanship on health care -- and its limits -- are noteworthy at a time when Washington is paralyzed.
has changed in Kentucky since 1893. There are the obvious advancements in technology and culture, of course. And then theres the states population centers, which have shifted and evolved as well. Once-prosperous coal towns have emptied out; former farmlands outside Lexington and Louisville have bloomed with exurban families. Overall, the state has added some 2.3 million residents over the past century, even as its rural counties collectively have lost more than a million people.One thing that hasnt changed much, though, is Kentuckys judicial district map. Aside from a few minor tweaks, it hasnt been revised statewide since the last time it was redrawn 124 years ago. Because the courts havent kept up with the demographic ebb and flow, judges workloads can vary widely. In some parts of the state, a single judge faces large, time-consuming caseloads appropriate for two or more jurists. Other jurisdictions have too many judges for a relatively small, uncomplicated caseload.There have been attempts to redraw the lines over the years, but the task has proven to be so politically difficult that most people have simply thrown up their hands and admitted defeat. One chief justice in the 1980s spent years on plans that ultimately went nowhere. Another refused to discuss the issue altogether, dismissing it as a political third rail.John Minton Jr., the current chief justice, is well acquainted with all of this history. So he was less than thrilled three years ago when the state legislature tasked him and the state Supreme Court with presenting a plan to rebalance judgeships across Kentucky. Such a redistricting would mean adding positions in some places, while eliminating judgeships in others. Taking an elected judgeship away from a community is a good way to make enemies, from residents to state lawmakers to the judges themselves. As an elected official himself, Minton knew a redistricting plan would probably draw political opposition in future bids to keep his own job. I went into this as a reluctant participant, Minton says. No community wants to be told its got to give up a judgeship. There are going to be some who gain and some who lose. And those who lose, they speak up.But Kentuckys court mismatch had become too big a problem to ignore. The Senate had ordered a third-party study of judges relative workloads across the state. It found that the problem wasnt just a geographic and demographic disconnect. The state had too many district and circuit court judges, but not enough judges in family courts, which had become overwhelmed by a surge in child abuse and neglect cases. The judicial map simply wasnt fair, and the studys results suggested that taxpayer dollars werent being spent as efficiently as they could be.So Minton and his colleagues spent more than two years developing a framework for redistributing the states judgeships. In an effort to sidestep regional politics, the plan they came up with was based on a field study that measured both the time and complexity of caseloads. The total number of judgeships wouldnt change, and the price tag (about $2 million) would be a quarter of the estimated cost to simply hire additional family court judges. No one would be kicked out of office in the middle of a term: The new system wouldnt go into place until 2022, the next time that every affected position is up for re-election. All it needed was a rubber stamp this spring from the legislature, which had ordered the redistricting proposal in the first place.It should have been simple. This year, for the first time in decades, Republicans controlled both chambers of the Kentucky Legislature. Party leadership in the Senate had already endorsed the redistricting proposal, naming it as one of its top priorities for the year, and passed a bill in March. But the momentum stopped there. The new Republican House majority, ignoring their peers in the Senate, let the bill die in committee. Minton and his allies havent given up on passing legislation next year. The bills sponsor, Sen. John Schickel, says there simply wasnt enough time this session to educate House members about the proposal. By next year, he says, hell have the votes to put the plan into effect. But its also possible that redistricting, which inherently leaves some stakeholders unhappy, still wont garner enough support from lawmakers whose districts are losing a judge.If Kentucky had passed a system-wide overhaul of its districts, it would have been a major departure from how most states address problems in judicial workload. States often tinker with the number of judges across a state, and sometimes they combine neighboring districts. But in terms of a large-scale remaking of the map, its simply not done, says William Raftery, an analyst with the National Center for State Courts. The much more common situation is to add a judge here, take a judge there.Of course, states routinely redraw the political map for state legislative seats and congressional races. Thats a thorny enough task. Judicial redistricting is even more difficult, because its not just population changes that must be accounted for. More important are the kinds of cases that courts handle and the average time it takes to reach a decision. For example, in Kentucky, Rafterys group found that a traffic charge takes, on average, less than three minutes to process in district court, whereas a juvenile case usually takes 48 minutes. Areas with an uptick in those time-consuming cases require more judges.Kentuckys experience illustrates a problem that many state legislatures have faced: Even when most lawmakers recognize a need to address a judicial workload imbalance, they may not be willing to fix it if it means the communities they represent would lose judges. At least three states have tried to tackle the issue in the past few years, and none has successfully implemented a plan yet. Its a very tough pitch, says Schickel. They never want to take away judges. But as a steward of the taxpayers money, that is just not acceptable., Montana set out to fix the same problem confronting Kentucky. The legislature appointed a commission to study judicial workload data and consider potential redistricting options. The results of the study were similar to those in Kentucky. The commission found that rural areas had lost population while the more urban areas had gained residents, leaving an imbalanced court system. And as in Kentucky, Montana courts were grappling with an increase in child abuse and neglect cases. (In both states, that increase was linked partly to the rise in opioid use in recent years.) The study concluded that Montana was short 21 judgeships.The question before the commission was straightforward: Should Montana redraw its judicial districts? But the group also had to contemplate the deeper implications of prioritizing the needs of urban counties over rural ones, and whether the costs to the rural areas were worth it. The ultimate answer was no, says former state Sen. Kristin Hansen, who served on the commission.Hansen and her colleagues considered six redistricting options and unanimously voted against five of them. The sixth plan, which had been put forth by Hansen, only got one yes vote, from Hansen herself. It was a decidedly modest proposal that would have shifted a single judgeship from a rural area to Yellowstone County, the states biggest population center. Even Hansen acknowledges that it would have provided only minor relief while adding a lot of commuting miles for the remaining rural judge. In terms of the upheaval that it would have caused, Hansen says, I wasnt 100 percent opposed to the commissions decision [to reject the plan] either.Lawmakers abandoned the notion of redistricting. But they still hadnt addressed the original problem of overworked judges. This year, Rep. Jeff Essmann proposed a partial fix by adding judgeships in a few targeted areas across the state. His bill presented fewer political costs -- no one would lose a judge -- but it meant an added expense of nearly $1.4 million per year at a time when state revenues had fallen $236 million below projected levels. Essmanns original legislation would have created five new judges, plus support staff, starting next January. Because of budget constraints, the proposal got pared down to two new judges in 2019, and a third starting in 2021. I consider myself lucky, he says. The money was just not going to be there for two years.Montanas approach -- scraping together funds for a couple new judgeships when the workload becomes unmanageable -- is typical of most states. But theres at least one other state thats considering the kind of large-scale remapping thats been debated in Kentucky: Missouri.State Sen. Bob Dixon became interested in judicial redistricting the way most lawmakers do. He kept hearing about overcrowded jails and case backlogs in his own district. Dixon represents an area that includes Springfield, the third-largest city in the state. Missouris judicial boundaries havent been overhauled since 1959, and just as in other states, the demographics and nature of cases have changed. A workload study found that the area around Springfield had the most severe shortage of judges in the state. Dixon began pushing for legislation to enact statewide redistricting.It took him nearly a decade to pass it. He faced staunch opposition from rural lawmakers who didnt want to see their judges go to another part of the state. So we had to come up with a creative solution to go around them, he says The solution was to create a process that mostly happens outside of the legislature. His bill, which passed in 2013, calls for an independent judicial conference to study and propose new boundaries every two decades, starting in 2020. The legislature still has the option to block the plan and pass its own realignment proposal. Dixon hopes the law will impose enough pressure on legislators to either accept an outside fix or finally negotiate a plan of their own.Missouris law is really just the first step toward an actual plan. For now, it essentially sidesteps all the controversial details that could ultimately torpedo a redistricting effort in the future. Theres no telling how lawmakers will react when they have a document in front of them outlining which districts would lose or gain judges.In Kentucky, meanwhile, the controversial details are already on the table. Sen. Robin Webb, who represents Boyd County in northeastern Kentucky, voted against the Senate legislation, which would have resulted in the loss of two judges in her county but the gain of a family court judge. Besides her parochial concerns, Webb contends that the state Supreme Courts decision-making process wasnt well documented and seemed arbitrary. Im not opposed to adjustments, she says, but I think they need to be rational. The independent workload study showed a reduced need for district and circuit court judges in Boyd County, but as a trial attorney herself, Webb doesnt put a lot of stock in the finding. Its hard to quantify the workload of a judge, she says. Its not an exact science.For his part, Chief Justice Minton is inviting constructive feedback about the plan that failed this year. If legislators have suggestions about a better way to draw these lines, he says, I would welcome that conversation.In the end, though, Minton may not need to tweak the plan. At most, 15 of the states 120 counties would lose judges under the bill, and even some senators who represent those areas have decided to lend their support. If you are about fiscal conservatism -- using tax dollars wisely -- you would be for this issue, says Senate President Robert Stivers, whose home county would lose a judge. Stivers says the legislature has got to reckon with recent demographic changes in the state, starting with the significant loss of jobs -- and residents -- in Eastern Kentucky. Theres been an outmigration for the past several years, so the caseload has dropped. Thats just the reality.To enact redistricting, proponents will need more people to adopt Stivers big-picture perspective. Minton likes to remind lawmakers that all of the states individual judicial districts make up one single court system. Im hoping that everyone will be able to step back, he says, and take a broader view.
Both sides encouraged

'Taking unfair advantage'

The U.S. Supreme Court said Monday that it will decide in its next term a case brought by Democratic voters in Wisconsin who argue that state Assembly districts are unconstitutionally gerrymandered to favor Republicans. The court in a separate order delayed the drawing of new state Assembly district boundaries.The action was announced in a list of orders that the court issued Monday. Arguments would likely be heard in the fall.The case was initially decided in November by a panel of two federal district court judges and a U.S. Court of Appeals judge, which said in a 2-1 decision that the 2011 Republican re-draw of state Assembly boundaries is an unconstitutional partisan gerrymander.The case is expected to have an impact nationally, deciding the standard by which courts can determine whether a redistricting plan is drawn unconstitutionally on the basis of the party affiliation of voters.The Supreme Court had discussed the case at its June 8 and June 15 conferences, according to the court's docket on the case.A separate order by the court Monday granted a motion by state Attorney General Brad Schimel to stay the lower court panel's order that new state Assembly district lines be drawn by November 2017, before the 2018 elections. The stay was opposed by Justices Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagen, the court's four liberal-leaning justices.But Paul Smith, lead attorney for the Democratic voters, said during a conference call with reporters Monday that even with the delay in creating new maps, it's possible that new maps would be in place before the 2018 fall elections. He said he expects that after briefs are filed in the case over the summer, oral arguments would be heard in November or December, followed by a ruling in spring 2018. He said that leaves plenty of time before a June filing deadline for state legislative races.Schimel had asked the Supreme Court to delay the drawing of new boundaries until after the court rules on the merits of the case, arguing that drawing new maps would be a waste of resources."The stay is particularly important because it preserves the Legislature's time, effort and resources while this case is pending," Schimel said in a statement Monday applauding the stay.UW-Madison political science professor Barry Burden said people shouldn't use the stay as an indication of where the court stands on the case overall. He added, though, that because of the time it will take for the Supreme Court to decide the case, "In 2018, we're very likely to be using the districts we have today," regardless of how the court rules. He said he doesn't believe the court will rule until possibly the middle of 2018.Rick Hasen, a University of California-Irving law professor who blogs about election law cases, wrote Sunday night that the court granting a stay would indicate a good possibility that the court is positioned to reverse the lower court panel's decision in the case."So this stay order raises a big question mark for those who think (the) court will use the case to rein in partisan gerrymandering," he added Monday.Other lawyers who represent Democrats in election cases chimed in on Twitter Monday some skepticism about success in the case."The vote on the stay should tamp down some of the excitement about this grant," wrote Ronald Klain, who worked in White House under Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton."Correct," responded Marc Elias, who was general counsel for Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign.In a statement issued later by the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, Elias, an NDRC adviser, called the case "the latest sign that the courts remain a strong check on extreme Republican gerrymandering." He said the Wisconsin case, along with others, "will halt these illegal maps, now and in the future."Wisconsin Democratic Party chairwoman Martha Laning said, however, that she is "confident that the 2011 legislative maps will be declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court as well and electoral fairness will be restored to Wisconsin."Twelve Republican-dominated states are supporting Wisconsin in its defense of the 2011 redistricting plan. In addition, Wisconsin GOP legislative leaders hired a pair of law firms to represent them before the Supreme Court."We've already had two federal courts declare the map unconstitutional in part or whole," said Sachin Chheda, director of the Fair Elections Project, which organized and launched the lawsuit on behalf of a group of Democratic voters in Wisconsin. "It's time for the Legislature to stop with the false talking points and focus on ensuring every Wisconsin citizen has their rights protected by drawing new maps now."Schimel said in a statement that he's "thrilled" the Supreme Court has taken the case."As I have said before, our redistricting process was entirely lawful and constitutional, and the district court should be reversed," Schimel said.Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said in a joint statement that they are "encouraged" by the Supreme Court's decision to take the case and the stay in the order to re-map Assembly districts."Wisconsin lawmakers have maintained that our state's redistricting process and legislative maps are legal and constitutional, and we look forward to the Court's final decision, which we are confident will affirm our position," Vos and Fitzgerald said.The U.S. Supreme Court has never struck down a state redistricting plan on the basis of a partisan gerrymander.In May, the court struck down two North Carolina congressional districts that it said were based too heavily on race, and that Republicans who controlled the state legislature and governor's office placed too many African-Americans in the two districts. That weakened African-American voting strength elsewhere in the state, the court said.In its decision on Wisconsin's case, the majority in the lower court panel decision wrote that the Assembly district map, which was drawn in the office of a Madison law firm that often represents Republican interests, "was intended to burden the representational rights of Democratic voters...by impeding their ability to translate their votes into legislative seats."U.S. Appeals Court Judge Kenneth Ripple, an appointee of President Ronald Reagan, wrote the decision, and was joined by U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, of Madison, a Jimmy Carter appointee. Dissenting was U.S. Chief Judge William Griesbach of Milwaukee.In a subsequent ruling, the lower court panel ordered that the Legislature must have a new redistricting plan in place by Nov. 1, 2017, for the 2018 general election.The team working on behalf of the Democratic voters contends that it has found a way to measure unconstitutional partisan gerrymanders designed to give a "large and durable" advantage in elections to one party -- a measure that the Supreme Court has said was lacking in previous cases contending a partisan gerrymander.The measure, called the efficiency gap, shows how cracking (breaking up blocs of Democratic voters) and packing (concentrating Democrats within certain districts) results in wasted votes -- excess votes for winners in safe districts and perpetually inadequate votes for the losers.The Democrats say that the 2011 plan was drawn specifically to disenfranchise Democratic voters. Their lawsuit states that in the first election after the 2011 redistricting, Republican candidates won 60 of the Assembly's 99 seats even though Democratic candidates won a majority of the statewide votes cast for Assembly.Trevor Potter, president of the Campaign Legal Center, who has worked on behalf of Republican candidates such as U.S. Sen. John McCain in the past, said partisan gerrymandering is practiced by both parties, thanks to computer software that makes selecting voters for district maps much easier than in the past."What we're seeing is where possible the party in power is taking unfair advantage of their official position to benefit their parties and ensure that the will of the voters is not carried out," Potter said. "The effect of this is a serious problem for our democracy."Burden said that if the Supreme Court overturns the lower court panel's decision, it could be a long time before another partisan gerrymandering case lands at its doorstep. But if it upholds the lower court, it will be a landmark decision."That's a message to other states that they also need to prevent partisanship from going too far," Burden said.
Milwaukee County Sheriff David A. Clarke Jr. has withdrawn his name for an assistant secretary position at the Department of Homeland Security  a job he said a month ago he had accepted.A DHS spokesman on Sunday confirmed that Clarke was no longer being considered for a position within the department, according to the Associated Press."We wish him well," the spokesman told the AP.Clarke formally withdrew from consideration of the job late Friday by notifying Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly, according to a statement from Craig Peterson, a close adviser to the sheriff."Sheriff Clarke is 100 percent committed to the success of President Trump and believes his skills could be better utilized to promote the presidents agenda in a more aggressive role," Peterson said in the statement.
Gov. Rick Scott signed into law Wednesday a bill pushed by two Southwest Florida lawmakers that cracks down on fentanyl abuse.The legislation, HB 477, sponsored by Rep. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Sen. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, establishes mandatory minimum sentences for possession of certain amounts of fentanyl -- a powerful synthetic opioid -- and its many derivatives.The legislation establishes mandatory minimum sentences of at least three years in jail for possession of between four and 14 grams of fentanyl or its derivatives, at least 15 years for possession of between 14 and 28 grams and at least 25 years for possession of more than 28 grams.The mandatory minimum sentences have been controversial, with the Senate originally voting to strip them from the bill. But they were added back in after lobbying from Attorney General Pam Bondi and others, and the bill narrowly cleared the Senate 20-18."The heroin and fentanyl epidemic is destroying lives and families," Boyd said. "I am grateful the governor signed this bill that sends notice to the dealers of this poison that when caught they will go to jail. We will not stop until we find and prosecute you to the fullest extent of this law."Criminal justice reform advocates say mandatory minimums do not offer judges enough flexibility and can result in overly harsh sentences. But supporters of the legislation argue they are needed because fentanyl is such a dangerous drug.Often mixed with heroin, fentanyl can be extremely deadly. Overdose deaths related to the drug have spiked in Florida in recent years, with Southwest Florida a particular hot spot.Manatee and Sarasota counties were the top two communities in the state for fentanyl-caused deaths per capita in 2015, according to the Florida Medical Examiners Commission. The drug killed 111 people that year in the medical examiner's district that includes Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties.Fentanyl caused 705 deaths across Florida in 2015 and was found in the system of another 206 overdose victims who died. The drug continues to present a major health crisis, with the number of deaths increasing in the first half of 2016.Scott noted that he signed an executive order last month declaring a public health emergency in the state, allowing Florida access to more than $27 million in federal funding from the Health and Human Services Opioid State Targeted Response Grant."I'm proud to sign this important piece of legislation today to help fight this national epidemic which has taken the lives of too many Floridians," Scott said, thanking Boyd, Steube and Bondi for their work on the bill. "This legislation provides tools for law enforcement and first responders to save lives."In a news release from Scott, Bondi called the legislation her top priority in this spring's legislative session "because it gives law enforcement and prosecutors the tools we need to combat the trafficking of fentanyl and save lives."Steube said, "For too many years, the opioid epidemic has devastated families across the state and this legislation is a major step in our battle against this deadly epidemic."
GIS - 19 June, 2017: Guaranteeing security and law and order to Mauritian citizens is one of Governments main priorities in the 2017-2018 budget. To this end a series of measures has been enumerated.

Law and Order

A sum of Rs 8.4 billion has been earmarked for the Mauritius Police Force for recruitment of 583 additional Police constables and procurement of equipment, namely acquisition of 18 Light Armoured Personnel Carriers, 12 for the Special Mobile Force and 6 for the Special Support Unit to reinforce capability in emergency and disaster situations; and technological support to combat crimes and juvenile delinquency.

Police Patrols will be reinforced all over Mauritius, especially in crime prone areas and the Community Policing programme will be consolidated and intensified. The Police Training Academy will be set up at Cote dOr City.

 Provision of Rs 2.9 billion for the Integrated Development Project of the National Coast Guard (NCG), the Trident project. It will comprise the construction of a modern headquarters at Fort William with repair facilities for NCG vessels and a slipway.  Scaling up the pilot Safe City project into a fully fledged project at the cost of Rs 440 million with the installation of Intelligence and Traffic Surveillance cameras in major public areas. Measures to reduce crime and violence

The objective of Government is to reduce crime and violence through education and prevention, and the adoption of new technologies. The following measures will be implemented:
Description

GIS - 19 June, 2017: The Republic of Mauritius is the top ranked country in the African region on the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) for 2017 and positions itself 6th globally. Mauritius scores particularly high in the legal and technical areas.

The GCI is a survey produced by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to measure the commitment of Member States to cybersecurity in order to raise awareness.

GCI 2017 highlights that the Computer Emergency Response Team of Mauritius (CERT-MU), through the Botnet Tracking and Detection project, is able to take proactive measures to curtail threats on different networks across the country. According to the report capacity building is another area where Mauritius does well. GCI 2017 recalls that the Government IT Security Unit has conducted 180 awareness sessions for some 2 000 civil servants in 32 government Ministries and Departments.

GCIs Top 10

The top 10 global rankings are: Singapore (0.925); USA (0.919); Malaysia (0.893); Oman (0.871); Estonia (0.846); Mauritius (0.830); Australia (0.824); Georgia (0.819) and France (0.819) (ex-aequo); Canada (0.818); and Russian Federation (0.788).

Three categories were used to classify Member States:

 Initiating stage for 96 countries which have started to make commitments in cybersecurity;  Maturing stage for 77 countries which have developed complex commitments, and engage in cybersecurity programmes and initiatives; and

Mauritius is categorised in the Leading Stage.

About the Index

The Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI), launched in 2014, aims at fostering a global culture of cybersecurity and its integration at the core of ICTs. The 2017 GCI, which is the second iteration, measures the commitment of ITU Member States towards cybersecurity in order to drive further efforts in the adoption and integration of cybersecurity on a global scale.

The GCI revolves around the ITU Global Cybersecurity Agenda and its five pillars (legal, technical, organisational, capacity building and cooperation). For each of these pillars, questions were developed to assess commitment. One-hundred and thirty-four Member States responded to the survey throughout 2016.
Cloud computing is projected to increase from $67B in 2015 to $162B in 2020 attaining a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19 percent.

Gartner predicts the worldwide public cloud services market will grow 18 percent in 2017 to $246.8B, up from $209.2B in 2016.

74 percent of tech Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) say cloud computing will have the most measurable impact on their business in 2017.

71 percent of respondents use hybrid cloud platforms, compared to just 58 percent last year. Hybrid platforms keep more recent data onsite, while moving older data to the public cloud. That's an ideal setup for companies that aren't ready to move all their data offsite. Public cloud leaders like AWS integrate with third-party private clouds to become hybrid platforms, while private cloud leaders like VMware also integrate with other public clouds.

The biggest challenge for the cloud market today is a lack of resources and expertise, according to RightScale. Thirty-two percent of respondents felt that their IT departments were poorly equipped to handle the growing workloads in the cloud, compared to 27 percent in 2015.

The average company uses about 1,427 cloud-based services, according to Skyhigh Networks. Facebook is the most popular cloud-based social media service in the workplace, Office 365 is the top collaboration platform and Dropbox is the top file-sharing service. Those figures explain why Facebook is expanding into enterprise networking with Workplace, and why Microsoft is challenging Slack on the collaboration front with Skype Teams.

Cloud computing, centralizing IT for massive economies of scale and agile provisioning, volatility and growth

The Internet of Things (IoT), where things are becoming connected and sending reams of data

Machine learning, taking all of that data and improving processing and predictions

Augmented and Mixed Reality (along with Virtual Reality), where people can interact with other people and things both in physical and virtual worlds

Digital Business and the Digital World, where connections between things and people are pushing us to more and more real-time interactions and decisions.

The public cloud IaaS market is $23 billion

12 percent of that IaaS market is Microsoft Azure, or $2.76 billion

44 percent of that is spent on nonproduction resources  about $1.21 billion

Nonproduction resources are only needed for an average of 24 percent of the workweek, which means up to $900 million of this spend is completely wasted.

A few years back, an unmistakable trend emerged that cloud computing was growing in both percentage of organizations adopting cloud solutions as well as the amount and type of data being placed in the cloud.Earlier this year, I highlighted research that made it clear that trust and risks are both growing in government clouds . Since that time, many readers have asked for more specific guidance about moving more data to the cloud in the public and private sectors. I was asked: What are the right cloud questions?Questions like: Where are we heading with our sensitive data? Will cloud computing continue to dominate the global landscape? These are key questions that surface on a regular basis.The forecast for the computer industry is mostly cloudy . Here are some of the recent numbers:Back at the end of last year,reported 10 Cloud Computing Stats That Will Blow You Away , and the last three listed are especially intriguing to me. Here they are:And while it is true that the Internet of Things (IoT) has taken over the mantle as the hottest trend in technology, the reality is that The Internet of Things and digital transformation have driven the adoption of cloud computing technology in business organizations, according to a U.S.-based cloud infrastructure firm Nutanix This article from CxO Today lays out the case that the cloud remains the most disruptive force in the tech world today. Why?While premise-based IT software and tools have their own advantages, the global trend is for cloud based applications since they offer more connectivity and functionalities than legacy systems. Moreover, enterprises are naturally gravitating towards it as the technology is reasonably reliable, affordable, and provides them access to other new and emergent technologies as well as high end skills. The cloud boom is also propelled by the fact that enterprises are trying to improve performance and productivity over the long term. Looking at the tremendous response for cloud services, several IT companies are designing applications meant solely for pure cloud play.Other experts say that several overlapping trends are colliding as  The edge is eating the cloud . These trends include:And yet, there are plenty of enterprises that continue to have significant concerns regarding cloud computing contracts. Kleiner Perkins Mary Meeker highlighted the fact that cloud buyers are kicking the tires of multiple vendors while becoming more concerned about vendor lock-in.Also, technology leaders often move to the cloud to save money, but CFOs are now telling IT shops to cut costs in the cloud  fearing that resources are being wasted . For example:Also, while overall trust in cloud infrastructure is higher, new concerns are rising about application security delivered through the cloud.So what can technology and security leaders do to protect their data that is moving to the cloud?Here are seven recommendations that can help you through the journey. Note that the first four items are largely best practices about your current data situation and options before your data moves.I mean, really know what is happening now  before you move the data. Think about the analogy of a doing a house cleaning and organizing what you own before putting things in storage to sell your house.If you dont want to catalog everything (which is a mistake), at least know where the most important data is. Who is doing what regarding the cloud already? What data is sensitive? This is your as is data inventory situation with known protections of current data. And dont forget shadow IT. There are plenty of vendor organizations that can help you through this process.You need to know what data is being collected by your business processes, where does it go, who is accountable (now) and what policies are in force.Ask: Is there appropriate training happening now? Is it working? What policies are in place to govern the movement of your data? For example, my good friend and Delaware CSO Elayne Starkey does a great job in this area of policies. You can visit this Web portal for examples: https://dti.delaware.gov/information/standards-policies.shtml : Private, public, hybrid or community cloud? This simple step often gets confusing, in my experience, because some staff mix these terms up with the public sector and private sector definitions  wrongly thinking that a private cloud means private-sector-owned cloud.Here are some basic cloud definitions to ponder with your architecture team:: The organization chooses to have its own cloud where the resource pooling is done by the organization itself (Single Organization cloud). May be or may not be on premises (in your own data centers.)Different tenants are doing the resource pooling among the same infrastructure. Pros: It can be easily consumable, and the consumer can provision the resource. Cons: Consumer will not get the same level of isolation as a Private cloud.Sharing the cloud with different organizations usually unified by the same community sharing underlined infrastructure (halfway between private and public) small organizations pooling resources among others. For example, some state and local government organizations share email hosting with other state and local governments in the U.S. only.Mixture of both private and public i.e., some organization might say we would like elasticity and cost effectiveness of public cloud and we want to put certain applications in private cloud.Who owns the data? Who are the custodians? Who has access? Who can add, delete or modify the data? Really (not just on paper)? How will this change with your cloud provider?Build a system administration list. Insist on rigorous compliance certifications appropriate IAM from the outset, ideally based on roles, especially for administration duties. When you move to the cloud, the customers, not the provider, are responsible for defining who can do what within their cloud environments. Your compliance requirements will likely dictate what your future architecture in the cloud will look like. Note that these staff may need background checks, a process to update lists (for new employees and staff that leave) and segregation of duties as defined by your auditors.We could do an entirely separate blog on this encryption topic, since a recent (and scary) report says there is no encryption on 82 percent of public cloud databases . Here are a few points to consider. Who controls and has access to the encryption keys ? What data is truly being encrypted and when? Only sensitive data? All data?Once you move the data, your cloud solution vulnerability testing should be rigorous and ongoing and include penetration testing . Ask: How do you truly know your data is safe? What tools do you have to see your data in the cloud environment? How transparent is this ongoing process?The cloud service provider should employ industry-leading vulnerability and incident response tools. For example, solutions from these incidence response tools enable fully automated security assessments that can test for system weaknesses and dramatically shorten the time between critical security audits from yearly or quarterly, to monthly, weekly, or even daily.You can decide how often a vulnerability assessment is required, varying from device to device and from network to network. Scans can be scheduled or performed on demand.To spread risk most effectively, back up all data in a fault domain distinct from where it resides in production. Some cloud providers offer backup capabilities as an extra cost option, but it isnt a substitute for proper backups. Customers, not cloud providers, are responsible for determining appropriate replication strategies, as well as maintaining backups.No doubt, managing your data in the cloud is a complex and ongoing challenge that includes many other pieces beyond these seven items. From contract provisions to measuring costs incurred for the services to overall administration functions, the essential data duties listed are generally not for technology professionals or contracts pros lacking real experience.Nevertheless, all organizations that move data into and out of cloud providers data centers are constantly going through this data analysis process. Just because you moved sensitive data in the cloud five years ago for one business area does not mean that new business areas can skip these steps.If you are in a large enterprise, you may want to consider adding a cloud computing project management office (PMO) to manage vendor engagement and ensure the implementation of best practices across all business areas.And dont just fall for the typical line: I know xyz company (Amazon or Microsoft or Google or fill-in-the-blank) is better at overall security than we are  so just stop asking questions. Yes  these companies are good at what they do, but there are always trade-offs.You must trust but verify your cloud service  because you own the data. Remember, you can outsource the function, but not the responsibility.
The High Point Public Library will be the host of a free health and wellness fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday June 20,in the librarys lobby and the Morgan Community Room.

Health professionals from various health services and organizations will provide screenings, and the final hour will feature demonstrations and discussions, including Zumba from noon to 12:15 p.m., a discussion on cancer prevention and awareness for both men and women from 12:20 to 12:45 p.m., and a demonstration of PiYo, a combination of Pilates and yoga, from 12:45 to 1 p.m.

No preregistration is required.

For information, call 336-883-3671.

***

A Healing Touch Clinic will be held Wednesday, June 21, at West Market United Methodist Church, 301 W. Market St. in Greensboro. Appointments are available at 5:30, 6:30 or 7:30 p.m.

Described as biofield therapy, it relieves pain, eases stress and assists in eliminating toxins. Love offerings are accepted.

To make an appointment, contact Lundee Amos at 336-706-1048 or email lundeeht@gmail.com.

***

The National African American 10 City National Breast Cancer Conference Tour will stop in Greensboro on Saturday, June 24.

Dr. Vinay K. Gudena will discuss metastatic versus recurrent breast cancer and registered nurse Catherine Sevier will focus on cancer clinical trials.

The session will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sheraton Convention Center, 3121 High Point Road in Greensboro.

To register, visit www.event brite.com and search for breast health. For information, call 336-272-0092.

***

Hospice of Randolph County will offer volunteer training from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 23, at 416 Vision Drive in Asheboro.

Lunch and materials will be provided for free.

Registration is required; call 336-672-9300 or email lisa.huffman@hospiceofrandolph.org.

***

The BelkGives on the Go Mobile Mammography Center, a 39-foot-long screening center on wheels, will stop at the Belk store at Friendly Center in Greensboro from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 24, to offer free mammogram screenings.

Women ages 40 and older with no breast concerns, who havent had a mammogram in the past 12 months and who have a primary care physician are eligible. Call 855-655-2662 to schedule an appointment.

In Winston-Salem, the mobile mammography center will be at Hanes Mall from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 22.

***

Cone Health will offer a free class titled Bariatrics: Surgical Options for Weight Loss from 5:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, at the Wesley Long Education Center, Classroom 1, in Greensboro.

The class will provide information about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery, the costs and a pathway to help guide patients through the process to make a lifestyle change.

To register, call 336-832-8000 or visit www.conehealth.com/classes.

Also, Cone Health will offer these free support groups:

Breast Cancer, 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

, June 20,

and June 27, Cone Health Cancer Center at Wesley Long Hospital, Classroom 2-022, 336-832-0688.

Power Over Parkinsons community group, 4-5 p.m. Tuesday

, June 20,

, Womens Hospital Education Center, Classrooms 1 and 2, 336-271-2054.

Living with Cancer, 4-5:30 p.m. June 27, Cone Health Cancer Center at Wesley Long Hospital, Classroom 2-022, 336-832-0950.

***

The Mental Health Association in Greensboro is offering a new peer-led support group for members of the LGBTQ community from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays in the MHAG classroom.

The group is co-facilitated by Rick Mozena and Ted Hunter.

Participation does not require an orientation. Drop-ins are welcome.

For information, call 336-373-1402.

***

Staff and students from High Point Universitys School of Health Sciences will be present on Saturdays to do free health screenings at High Point Farmers Market.

Market hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 26 in the parking lot of the High Point Public Library, 901 N. Main St. in High Point.

For information, call 336-689-4463.

The National Association of Health Underwriters 87th Annual Convention and Exhibition will be June 25-June 28 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld in Orlando, Fla.

The healthcare summit will focus on assisting health insurance professionals to better service their clients through the legislative and regulatory changes affecting the health insurance market. More than 500 health insurance professionals from across the country will gather to attend training for licensure renewal and get the latest legislative information.

For information, contact Kelly Loussedes at 202-595-3074 or kloussdes@nahu.org.
North Carolina Republicans appeared to fall just short in Tuesdays General Assembly elections of gaining large enough majorities to override Gov. Roy Coopers vetoes on their own. But their seat gains eroded further the Democrats ability to block bills on abortion and other highly contested legislation. The Senate GOP increased their seats to the number needed to have a veto-proof majority. But Speaker Tim Moore said that House Republicans were one seat shy of a similar threshold. Moore said Wednesday he's confident House Republicans can get help from Democrats in an override. But that could be more difficult on abortion restrictions, which Cooper and other Democrats campaigned against.
EDEN  A recent poll of the community by Rockingham County Schools found that 53 percent of those surveyed support closing one, two or three schools in the county while 47 percent believe the district should not implement any of the proposed scenarios.

These and other poll results were announced at the June 12 Rockingham County Board of Education meeting.

From April 25 to May 16, Rockingham County Schools administration toured the county hosting public meetings. At these meetings, administrators explained to the public that due to RCSs budget shortfall, the district is considering closing and repurposing Draper Elementary School in Eden, South End Elementary School in Reidsville and/or Dillard Elementary School in Madison.

Both online and at these meetings, RCS invited the public to respond using an anonymous feedback form; 389 people participated in the poll.

The poll results found that 29.3 percent of voters suggest closing one, two or three of the schools in the 2018-19 school year, 23.7 percent of voters suggest closing one, two or three of the schools over the course of three school years starting in 2018-19 and 47 percent of voters believe the district should not go with any of these options.

On June 5, RCS shared these results with the Parent Advisory Council, which in turn made suggestions as to what the district should do based on this data.

Draper Elementary School

Poll voters responded to two possible scenarios for the Eden area.

The first scenario would involve closing Draper and realigning attendance zones such that, some Leaksville-Spray Elementary students would go to Douglass, some Central Elementary students would go to Leaksville-Spray, and some Draper students would go to either Central, or Lincoln in Ruffin.

The poll found that 28 percent support this scenario, 46.5 disagreed and 24.2 did not have a preference. The remaining percentage did not understand the scenario.

Sonja Parks, assistant superintendent of operations and logistics, added the supporters and indifferent voters to 52.2 percent in her presentation to the board, which surpasses the percentage in disagreement.

The alternative scenario for Eden would be to close Draper and transfer those students to Lincoln.

The poll found that 24.2 percent supported this scenario, 49.4 percent disagreed and 24.7 percent had no preference.

The total of those who support this second Eden scenario and those with no preference adds up to 48.9 percent which is still less than those who disagree.

When looking at the Eden feedback from our (Parent Advisory Committee), they recommended that we absorb Draper into Lincoln but split the middle school/high school feeder, Parks said. Then they also mentioned that Lincoln could be a bit overcrowded and could some of Draper students go into Central? So that's something that in this planning stage we will need to look at as a team."

Dillard Elementary School

For western Rockingham County, the current proposal involves closing Dillard and dividing the schools student population between Stoneville and Huntsville Elementary schools.

The poll found that 36 percent supported this scenario, 28.8 percent disagreed and 33.4 percent had no preference.

The recommendation here from our (Parent Advisory Committee) was to move New Vision (Elementary School) to Dillard, repurpose the old New Vision, Parks said. They also recommended a tutoring center in the building, Dillard or New Vision, combine New Vision and Dillard and make it a year round, and another recommendation was a parent resource center in the repurposed building.

South End Elementary School

Finally, for the Reidsville area, the current proposal involves closing South End and dividing its population between Moss Street and Monroeton schools, as well as transferring some Monroeton students to Williamsburg Elementary.

The poll found that 32.9 percent support this scenario, 31.1 disagree and 32.9 have no preference.

The (Parent Advisory Committee is) recommending to repurpose South End in the 2018-19 school year, provide additional resources to Moss Street to create more diversity, Parks said. They talked about a pilot program that we've been working with at both Moss Street and Wentworth this year called Rockin' Classrooms of the Future. They also mentioned a magnet or IB program.

The school district has not yet made any final decisions on closing or repurposing schools.

The four proposals were designed to help address underutilization of schools while also taking into account transportation distances for students, respecting neighborhoods, efficient busing and the age and condition of schools.

According to Superintendent Rodney Shotwell, if any schools close, the teachers would follow the students to new schools, retaining their jobs but at a new location.

RCS faces financial hardship

Discussions around school closures sparked from a need for Rockingham County Schools to cut about $4.2 million.

The school system requested a $1 million increase in funding from the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners to help contribute to that, but the commissioners chose to give the school district the same amount in funding to capital outlay and operating budgets as last year.

The school system expects a decrease in state funding with the decrease in student population within RCS.

According to data from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, average daily membership in Rockingham County schools has gone down each year over the last several years.

The district also expects retirement and health rates to increase, putting further pressure on the school systems budget.

The school district has already cut $3,037,664 for the 2016-2017 school year including $382,560 by switching to a 168-day academic calendar, $455,000 by reducing office support staff positions and front office staff at all middle and high schools and more.

Based on the numbers presented at the May 16 meeting, closing Draper, Dillard and South End would save RCS about $1,305,909, accounting for cut positions at those schools and the added costs of relocation.

Those savings would equal about 31 percent of the proposed $4.2 million in cuts.

The district arrived at the options following the results of the Integrated Planning for School and Community Study conducted by the Operations Research and Education Laboratory at North Carolina State University.

The study found that across the school system, RCS has a capacity of 16,217 students, but only 12,353 are enrolled, meeting 76 percent of the districts capacity.

According to the study, a majority of schools in Rockingham County are underutilized with 17 of 23 schools, not counting Rockingham Early College High School, at 80 percent capacity or less.

The three elementary schools with lowest population-to-capacity percentages are Dillard at 44 percent, Draper at 45 percent and Lincoln at 59 percent.

To find more about the studies mentioned, redistricting options and maps, visit www.rock.k12.nc.us and click on RCS Pathway to Transparency.
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On Friday, Lan Huynh sent her big brother a message on Facebook, wishing him a happy birthday.

U.S. Navy sailor Ngoc T. Truong Huynh, a Connecticut resident who was stationed on a warship in Japanese waters, thanked her. But when he didnt respond to other birthday messages, his family started to worry.

On Saturday, his family received word that Huynh, 25, of Oakville, was among seven sailors missing after their ship, the destroyer USS Fitzgerald, had collided with a container ship. On Sunday, the Navy reported that all seven had died.

On Monday, Lan Huynh shared memories and thoughts with The News-Times via Facebook about her brother, a Navy sonar technician who went by the nickname Tan.

Those who never met him really missed out on a beautiful soul, Lan Huynh said. He gave and gave and never asked for anything back. He might have looked intimidating, but he was actually the total opposite. He was so shy and quiet around strangers, but when you got to know him, he was so loving and innocent.

Im told from multiple of his shipmates that he talked about his family all the time, his sister said. While he was proud of us, we were even prouder of him for taking the courageous step to serve. We never saw him more happy than when he was in the Navy.

Ngoc T. Truong Huynh was born on June 16, 1992, in Vietnam. Two years later, his family moved to the United States. The oldest of four children, he became an American citizen in 2009.

His sister said he enjoyed video games, hiking and spending time with his siblings.

Huynh attended several public schools, including those in Plainville and Watertown. He also studied at Naugatuck Valley Community College before enlisting in the Navy in 2014. His family moved to Oklahoma a short time later.

He was a quiet and respectful young man who did his school work, said Paul Jones, principal of Watertown High School. Were honored by his service and saddened by his loss.

In a statement, Plainville High School offered its condolences to Huynhs family, friends, crew members, and all those who knew him.

Tan is remembered by faculty and staff at Plainville High School as a kind-hearted, respectful, and polite young man, according to the statement.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy directed flags be lowered to half-staff in Huynhs honor on Sunday.

The members of the military and their families make so many sacrifices to serve our nation, and (Sunday) is a sad and tragic reminder of what these men and women risk in defense of our nation every day, said Malloy in a statement.

Flags will remain at half-staff until burial or memorial services are held, the statement said.

(Sundays) tragedy reminds us in the starkest terms what an enormous sacrifice our military men and women and their families make in service to our nation, said Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman in a statement. We are deeply grateful for their courage and commitment. Our hearts are with Ngoc Truong Huynhs family as they grieve, and the other families who lost loved ones.

Daisy Cocco De Filippis, president of Naugatuck, sent an email to the community colleges students and staff to tell them about Huynhs death.

NVCC offers its heartfelt condolences to his family and friends as they mourn the loss of this brave young man, she said. Sonar Technician Huynh made the ultimate sacrifice for his country and for that we will be forever grateful.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Dong Energy has joined forces with Grimsby Institute to offer new offshore wind turbine technician apprenticeships.

The new three-year apprenticeships will comprise of one year of classroom based learning at the Grimsby Institute followed by two years working on site with Dong Energy.

The students will be taught in a new virtual training centre opened by the Grimsby Institute this year.

A minimum of four apprenticeships will be available and the application process opens TODAY.

The new apprentices will start in September 2017. If they successfully complete the programme will become full-time employees at Dong Energy.

Duncan Clark, programme director for Hornsea Project One Offshore Wind Farm, said: "Dong Energy is committed to helping develop people with the right skills to deliver the UK's offshore wind ambitions and so we're delighted to be taking on apprentices in Grimsby.

"Our new operations hub being built in the Grimsby Royal Dock will help maintain our offshore wind projects in the North Sea, and we want local people with relevant skills to work out of the hub and benefit from a highly rewarding job in a fantastic industry.

"Apprenticeships are a great way to learn on the job and the Grimsby Institute is a state-of-the art facility. We believe this scheme will provide a very attractive opportunity to become a fully qualified wind turbine technician. These roles are exciting and varied  not every job can offer a breath-taking view of the UK coastline!"

The apprentices will study as maintenance & operations engineering technicians (MOETs) with an emphasis on turbine technology. They will undertake a BTEC Level Three in Engineering.

Gill Alton, chief executive of Grimsby Institute, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Dong Energy to deliver the training for their new maintenance & operations engineering technician apprenticeships. Grimsby is home to the wind energy industry and it's excellent news for the town that the Institute has been selected by Dong Energy to provide the skills, knowledge and key employability skills the apprentices will develop in their first year. We have invested significantly over the last few years in providing state-of-the-art education and training facilities which will enable the apprentices to learn in realistic working environments.

"I am looking forward to a long and successful partnership with Dong Energy which will provide outstanding opportunities for people from the area."

A wind turbine technician is part of a team responsible for ensuring an offshore wind farm continues to operate successfully for its lifetime, planned to be more than 20 years. The main function of the role is to carry out a variety of manual tasks and fault diagnostics to ensure the wind turbines are working reliably and at maximum efficiency. The work is carried out at sea fixing complex machinery and the turbines can be over 100 meters in height from sea level so the ability to work at height is essential.

Transport to the turbines is via sea vessel or helicopter so being comfortable with air and sea travel is also necessary.

Dong Energy is exploring the possibility of expanding its apprenticeship scheme further in the future, potentially into other regions where it operates including Liverpool and Barrow.

It is not a first for the area, with E.on having rolled out a scheme for Humber Gateway, but with Dong Energy the largest operator in Grimsby the potential is clear as it makes the town an east coast hub, with 6 billion of investment underlined.

It has already delivered Westermost Rough, with Race Bank under construction and Hornsea One also underway. At least two more phases of Hornsea, what will be the world's largest site, are anticipated.

Anyone interested in applying for an apprenticeship can find out more here: Dong Energy offshore wind apprenticeship .
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The Muslim community in Grimsby have said "action must now be taken" to tackle the "worrying growth in Islamophobia" after the terror attack near a north London mosque on Monday.

The Islamic Association of South Humberside/Grimsby (IASH) condemned the attack and said Muslims across the UK had endured many incidents of Islamophobia in recent weeks and months.

At about 12.20am on Monday, a van was driven into a group of people close to the Muslim Welfare House a few hundred metres away from the Finsbury Park mosque. One man has died and 10 others were injured.

A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Speaking in response to the attack, Ahmed Samy, trustee of the Islamic Association of South Humberside, said action must be taken to clamp down on the apparent rise in Islamophobia.

"Our prayers are with the victims and families who are innocent ordinary British citizens," he said.



"Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia, and this seems to be the most violent one to date."



He added: "Muslim communities have been calling for increased action to tackle the growth in hate crime for many years.

"Action must now be taken to tackle not only this incident but the hugely worrying growth in Islamophobia. Having said that, our local Muslim community, represented by IASH, has been privileged by working closely and co-operatively with an efficient and vigilant local police department.



"We call upon all the British people of different backgrounds, beliefs and ethnicities to renounce all sorts of violence and to remain strongly united."

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said the incident was "quite clearly an attack on Muslims".

Witnesses described hearing the suspected driver, who was detained by members of the public at the scene, shout: "I'm going to kill Muslims."

Ms Dick said: "This was quite clearly an attack on Muslims who looked like they were probably Muslims and they were coming from a prayer meeting. We treat this as a terrorist attack.

"Sadly we have suffered a number of attacks and very sad events over the last few weeks," she added.

She spoke as Security Minister Ben Wallace confirmed the man was not known to the security services.

The attacker, who is believed to have acted alone and was described as a large white man, struck as the area was busy with worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers at the mosque.

Prime Minister Theresa May condemned the incident as "every bit as sickening" as the recent atrocities in London and Manchester.
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Maureen Riley had butterflies in her stomach on the morning of June 11, 1987.

She had been looking forward to embracing her 13-year-old son, who was soon due home after a week-long school trip to Whitby and Scarborough.

He had recently celebrated his birthday.

Maureen had just finished a shift at Stones Brewery and was returning to the family home on Cooper Road when she saw a group of police officers standing in her doorway.

"I had just come around the corner and the police were coming towards us. They told me what had happened and I just went to pieces. It was terrible," she said.

"I had just been talking about Jonathan coming home. I had butterflies in my stomach all day because I had not seen him for quite a bit."

She added: "He had just come back from a trip to Scotland and I said he couldn't go on this trip (to Scarborough) but he kept saying he wanted to go.

"He had lost his papers that I had to sign to let him go but he got given some new ones. He very nearly didn't go in the end."

But Jonathan did go on the trip and at just after 4.10pm on June 11, he was swept into the sea after being struck by two large waves while dodging the sea on the slipway opposite the Oasis Cafe on Marine Drive in Scarborough.

Despite prolonged searches by lifeboat crews and helicopters, Jonathan's body was never found, only the anorak he had been wearing that day.

The incident came towards the end of a day during which Jonathan had been left unsupervised on a school trip for six-and-a-half hours.

As reported by the Grimsby Telegraph in November 1987, the bus load of pupils arrived at Scarborough's Waterworks complex at about 10am.

The pupils were given spending money. Some went into Waterworld and others were allowed to go off elsewhere, with the instruction to be back at the complex at 5pm that afternoon.

A small group, including Jonathan, caught a bus to the nearest amusement arcades. They spent the day playing the machines - some visited the castle and funfair - before they started to make their way back to the meeting place at 4pm.

As they walked back along Marine Drive, the footpath was sprayed with moisture from very strong seas.

At one stage, the children ran down some steps and up the other side during a lull in the waves.

They then came to the slipway opposite the Oasis Cafe, and Jonathan and Scott Barker, edged their way down, holding onto the rails.

Speaking to the Grimsby Telegraph after the accident, Scott said: "Jonno was in front of me and I was holding the rail with my face to the wall.

"Jonno shouted to me to hold on tight because a big wave was coming. The wave crashed over us and Jonno was dragged to the other side, away from the wall and railing.

"I slipped then on some seaweed and didn't see him, then I remember us all running down to try and grab him.

"Before I could do anything he was too far out. He was struggling trying to swim back and he was shouting, 'Help me, Scott!'"

Scott alerted a woman in the Oasis Cafe and a man threw a lifebelt to the boy but it plopped down at the bottom of the slipway. The police and rescue services were on the scene in minutes.

A huge search operation was launched, as special RAF helicopters, coastguards and police worked together in desperate efforts to find Jonathan, but to no avail.

Reflecting on the horror of that day, Jonathan's classmate Nicola Scrimshaw, who organised the reunion earlier this month, said: "I will never forget the terror we all felt - the sheer panic on the teacher's faces as we all sat on the bus outside a telephone box as they frantically made phone calls.

"We obviously couldn't sleep that night, so in the early hours the next morning we went for a long walk. It was silent. We just walked and cried.

"For as long as I live I will never forget the eerie silence of the journey home without him, leaving him behind, knowing his body hadn't even been found. It brings me to tears even now when I speak of it."

The then Humberside Education Authority set up its own investigation into the incident, with heartbroken parents Bob and Maureen Riley demanding disciplinary action against the teachers who left the pupils unsupervised.

Teachers Richard Mason, Kier Davie and Katrina Wright received written warnings. For Mr Mason, who was in charge of the party, it was described as a "final warning." The decision was made by Humberside's Director of Education, despite the fact a report by Humberside County Council into the drowning cleared the teachers of any blame.

Recording an open verdict, coroner Michael Oakley said his conclusion was such because he was unable to ascertain the cause of the boy's death and no body had ever been recovered.

Speaking three decades after he called on the government to hold a top-level independent inquiry into the tragedy after being dissatisfied with the results of the local investigation, 73-year-old Bob said his fight for justice had proven too much for him.

"It was like fighting against a brick wall. Nothing has ever got done," he said.

Bob, who has two other children with his wife Maureen - Michelle Cowell, 50, and 47-year-old Shane Riley, added: "To us, Jonathan was a loveable rogue. He had more friends than anyone else and there always used to be lots of girls after him.

"It gets easier over time in some ways but in other ways it doesn't."

In an appeal to parents, Bob said: "Before you let your children go on these trips make sure you find out everything you can, like where they are going, how many teachers there are going to be and all the important safety factors.

"I often think to myself 'what if'."
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A new programme has been launched that will see retired emergency service personnel recruited and trained to become community volunteers.

The Blue Lights Brigade Programme, has been set up by Voluntary Action North East Lincolnshire, after securing funding from the Big Lottery Fund, and is designed to train former emergency service workers to become community volunteers, providing them with skills training and opportunities to volunteer with an existing organisation, or develop a new position to match their skills.

Launched as part of National Volunteers Week at the North East Lincolnshire Volunteer Managers Network first Volunteering Fair held in the Floral Hall at Peoples Park on Friday June 2, from 10am the group showcased their exciting new proposals to create a Blue Lights Brigade across Humberside.

The programme will deliver a tailor-made volunteering skills development programme to equip the retired emergency service staff with specific volunteering skills and knowledge and recognise any previous experience by enabling the retired staff members who volunteer to achieve the volunteer card qualification and provide them with appropriate learner reference material and a resource pack.

Whilst completing the 6-module training programme each volunteer will identify either: an existing community safety related volunteering opportunity with a voluntary group or propose a new volunteering role that they can undertake of benefit to the voluntary group or local community in our identified target areas. The whole approach will be tailor-made to ensure it meets individual volunteer, voluntary groups' and wider community needs across our local area.

Simultaneously the initial voluntary groups where the volunteers will be volunteering will undertake the Supporting Volunteers Award to ensure both volunteers and groups have local quality assurance. The volunteering will relate to for example: neighbourhood watch (community problem solving); street angels (victim prevention); victim support (repeat victims of anti-social behaviour); young witness service (witness support); youth offending projects (crime diversion); YMCA (positive youth activities); Harbour Place day centre (supports homeless people to rebuild lives); neighbourhood groups (applying restorative practice approaches); celebrating interfaith and cultural diversity.

Each volunteer will start on a learning journey of volunteering development and complete a case study supported by an independent evaluator. The case studies will be used to inform the exploration as to whether setting up a Blue Lights Brigade group of retired emergency service officer volunteers would be viable, sustainable, of value to local communities and other voluntary groups.

Steven Lynn, VANEL Community Link Champion said:  What a great opportunity for retired police officers like me to invest time voluntarily back into communities they have served for years as police officers. We have so much to offer and it so often gets lost when we retire. This project provides lots of different ways to support local communities with the help they need.

Paula Grant, VANEL Chief Officer said: We are delighted to have secured Big Lottery Fund monies to invest in a professional development programme of direct benefit to voluntary groups and wider communities we support. This will give us an excellent opportunity to build even stronger working relationships with both volunteers and voluntary groups that we support across our area.

Voluntary Action North East Lincolnshire (VANEL) manages the North East Lincolnshire Volunteering Development Service, identifies volunteering opportunities for local people; trains and develops volunteers and voluntary groups; places people into volunteering options they can create themselves; helps people and groups find funding to support their work and much more.

For more information please call VANEL on 01472 231 123.
Alice Waters has been a champion of food causes for decades. Photo: Giuseppe Cacaceg/AFP/Getty Images

On Friday, Amazon announced that it would acquire Whole Foods for $13.7 billion. Some responded to the news by speculating about possible antitrust issues, with Representative Ro Khanna of California sharing a statement expressing concern about what this deal means for suppliers and neighborhood grocery stores. Food activist and Chez Panisse chef Alice Waters, who was awarded with National Humanities Medal by the Obama administration, shared her own statement, but her tone was different.

In an open letter to Jeff Bezos, Waters wrote to the Amazon founder and CEO, [Y]ou have an unprecedented opportunity to change our food system overnight. She went on to suggest that this acquisition was an opportunity to commit to promoting better farming places, including supporting farmers who shepherd their land, sustainable fisheries, and food producers who operate without federal subsidies.

Its not a surprising message from Waters, who pioneered seasonal cooking in modern America and was an early supporter of organic farming and actually caring about the provenance of ingredients. Amazon has a massive distribution network, and companies of its size obviously leave major footprints. (Its already reshaped, or rather taken over, much of retail.) Its worth pointing out, though, that Amazon has dealt with labor issues in the past, with American workers describing terrible conditions in letters to Gawker, and another writing a story for Mother Jones headlined I Was a Warehouse Wage Slave.



Waterss hopeful sentiment, nonetheless, struck a hopeful chord and became something of a small phenomenon over the weekend. It was retweeted 2,500 times, including by celebrities and prominent food figures. But today it was reported that Amazon, which has gone full throttle on automated warehouses and embraced drones, plans to reduce jobs at Whole Foods through, you guessed it, automation.




Haiti - Education : Presentation of certificates to 150 directors of fundamental schools in the Southeast





Sunday, at the Jacmel Convention Center in the presence of Pierre Josue Agenor Cadet, the Minister of National Education and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain, Manuel Lorenzo Garcia Ormaechea, was held the certificate ceremony for more than 150 directors of fundamental schools was held the certificate ceremony for more than 150 directors of public primary schools of the Southeast department, whose teachers were trained 3 years, as part of the Haitian-Spanish cooperation.



In his speech, Minister Cadet stressed the need to upgrade the profession of teacher and welcomed the efforts of all the partners who contributed to the success of these training sessions, thanking the Southeast Public University in Jacmel that rovided training and the Spanish Cooperation that financed all operations through the "Plan for Restructuring and Modernization of the Offer of Educational Services in the Southeast" (PREMOSE).



The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain reiterated his Government's support for the Haitian educational sector, stressing that the Spanish cooperation in Haiti, testify to the solidarity between the two peoples.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Security : Departure of the Guatemalan military contingent





As part of the withdrawal from Haiti of forces of the Minustah https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20653-haiti-flash-the-un-voted-final-departure-of-the-minustah-in-october.html , the Ambassador of Guatemala to the Dominican Republic and Haiti, Rudy Coxaj, in the presence of senior officials of the Haitian Government and of the United Nations Stabilization Mission of Haiti (MINUSTAH), participated in the Guatemalan contingent's departure ceremony (GUAMPCOY), composed of 51 military policemen, who are expected to leave Haiti by 23 June 2017.



The ceremony took place last week in Cap-Haitien in one of the Minustah camps and consisted, among other things, of handing over the flags of both the UN and Guatemala. In their speeches Sandra Honore and Ambassador Coxaj underlined the importance of the presence of the Guatemalan army in the fulfillment of the stabilization mandate aimed at strengthening the Haitian National Police and the creation of security conditions for Haitian citizens.





Let's recall that in this department, Minustah has financed 1,700 projects for an amount of US$48 million to help build a climate of peace and stabilization by supporting the Haitian government. These projects included institutional support, reform of the rule of law (reform of the police, justice and penitentiary system) and human rights, support for elections and the authorities regional and local.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20653-haiti-flash-the-un-voted-final-departure-of-the-minustah-in-october.html



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Economy : Great first for Sunrise Airways





The Haitian airline Sunrise Airways (IATA: S6, ICAO: KSZ) which recently unveiled the latest addition to its fleet : a new Airbus A320 https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-19865-icihaiti-sunrise-airways-commissioning-of-an-airbus-a320.html offers for the first time in the history of the company two classes of service, the 150-seat jet aircraft features 12 seats in first class and 138 in economy.



"The type of expansion we are pursuing throughout the Caribbean and into North and South America demands that we continually invest in modern jet aircraft offering the very best in comfort and reliability," declared Philippe Bayard, President of Sunrise Airways. "Our new A320, with seating in both first class and economy, continues our mission to elevate Caribbean aviation to new heights, while also paving the way for us to serve new and existing international markets at a high level."



Sunrise Airways newest Airbus A320 currently operates from the carriers hub in Port-au-Prince to three destinations in Cuba  Havana, Camaguey, and Santiago de Cuba  with additional expansion throughout the Caribbean, as well as North and South America, planned for 2017 pending government approval.



About Sunrise Airways :

Sunrise Airways (IATA: S6, ICAO: KSZ) is rising to meet the progressively expanding demand for safe, reliable, and affordable air travel throughout the Caribbean. From its hub in Port-au-Prince, Sunrise Airways operates daily scheduled passenger flights serving Santo Domingo, (SDQ and JBQ) and Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI); Havana (HAV), Camaguey (CMW) and Santiago de Cuba (SCU) in Cuba; and Cap Haitien (CAP). New flights to/from Orlando, FL (MCO); Kingston, Jamaica (KIN); Providenciales, Turks & Caicos (PLS); and Nassau, The Bahamas (NAS) are planned for 2017-2018, pending government approval. In line with the expansion of its route network, Sunrise Airways has initiated service aboard a 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft. Headquartered in Port-au-Prince, Sunrise Airways is a privately-owned corporation with registered offices in Haiti.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20202-haiti-economy-inaugural-flight-of-sunrise-airways-pap-havana.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-19865-icihaiti-sunrise-airways-commissioning-of-an-airbus-a320.html



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Arrest of a dangerous criminal

This weekend, Divisional Inspector Jean Marie Rochenel, spokesman for the National Police of Haiti (PNH) presented to the press Witzer Estimable aka "Lode" a dangerous criminal actively sought and arrested during a police operation in Bon Rest. "Lode" is accused among others of destruction of plantations, theft of harvests, threat and attempt of assassination, assassination and association of criminals...



Haiti one of the poorest and most vulnerable countries

According to data from the World Bank, "Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the world (GDP less than 350 euros / year / inhabitant), but also one of the most vulnerable to natural disasters, because of its geographical positioning, but also inadequate infrastructure and inadequate governance."



Mexico : Regularization process for Haitians*

In Tijuana and Mexicali, border towns with the United States, the delegation of the Haitian Embassy in Mexico sensitizes and directs Haitian compatriots in the process of regularizing their migratory status in Mexico in Tijuana in the Presidents' Hall of the Town Hall and to Mexicali at the city's central library.



The Minister of Tourism in New York

On Sunday in New York, as part of the 44th Annual Convention of the Association of Haitian Doctors Abroad (AMHE) to be held at the Royal Decameron, Emilie Jessy Menos, Minister of Tourism had a preparatory working meeting with the members and the AMHE Committee.



The DG of the PNH in Jamaica

Michel-Ange Gedeon, the Director General of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) participated in the "Multilateral Summit on Combating Crime Interconnected World" in Jamaica. During his 48-hour stay, he met with the Director of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for the region and his counterpart of the Jamaican Police with whom he addressed several issues of common interest.



Tourism : Did you know ?

Unit 2 of the Pine Forest has been classified as a Natural National Park since January 2014 for its rich biodiversity, its extraordinary natural habitats such as Pic La Selle, Casacade Pichon... Its conservation elements (unique landscapes, endemic and rare species of plants and birds), its fresh climate throughout the year, make it one of the most visited eco-tourist regions in Haiti. The park has a chalet of several standard rooms for visitors wishing to spend pleasant nights or stays + hikes at affordable prices.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















offee Club franchisee in Brisbane has been penalised more than $180,000 for requiring an employee to repay $18,000 of his wages by threatening to cancel his 457 skilled worker visa if he refused.The penalties have been imposed in the Federal Court Circuit against Saandeep Chokhani  who, with his wife, formerly owned and ran the Coffee Club franchise at the Nundah Village Shopping Centre.Chokhani has been penalised $30,000 and a company he and his wife are the directors of, Gaura Nitai Pty Ltd, has been penalised a further $150,900.The worker is an Indian national in his late 20s who was sponsored by Gaura Nitai to work as a cook at the Nundah Coffee Club outlet on a 457 visa.The workers contract stated he was to be paid an annual salary of $53,900 on a weekly basis - but he endured long periods without receiving any wages at all.After failing to pay the worker any wages for a four-month period from July to November 2014 and a one-month period in February-March 2015, Chokhani and Gaura Nitai paid the worker $19,334 by electronic transfer on 22 April 2015.Judge Michael Jarrett found that Chokhani then told the worker to withdraw $18,000 in cash and repay it to him or Chokhani would take steps to cancel his 457 visa.The worker withdrew $18,000 in cash the same day and repaid it to Chokhani.(The worker) was in a bind, Judge Jarrett said.He could not leave his employment because if he did so he would breach a condition of his visa and his ability to remain in Australia would be seriously compromised. He was effectively working for nothing.The worker lodged a request for assistance with the Fair Work Ombudsman only after his employment was terminated without notice in November 2015.When Fair Work inspectors investigated, they found that because of the unlawful cash-back payment, the worker had been underpaid his minimum hourly rates, casual loading, annual leave entitlements, overtime rates, payment in lieu of notice of termination and penalty rates for weekend and public holiday work.The unlawful cash-back payment and the underpayment of contractual entitlements led to the worker being short-changed a total of $23,546 between September, 2013 and November, 2015. The worker was back-paid in full earlier this year.The worker told the Court that the exploitation had led to him incurring credit card debt and needing to borrow money from family and friends.Judge Jarrett described the requirement placed on the worker to pay-back his wages as especially egregious, saying it was an inappropriate and grotesque exploitation of the power imbalance that existed between (Chokhani) and (the worker).The respondents conduct was deliberately exploitative of (the workers) position being, as he was, dependent upon (Gaura Nitais) ongoing sponsorship so as not to jeopardise his 457 visa, Judge Jarrett said.Moreover, Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James said the penalties imposed send a message about the seriousness of exploiting the vulnerability of visa holders.We will do everything within our power to pursue any employer who thinks they can exploit the power imbalance they have over migrant workers they employ, said James.Any unscrupulous employer tempted to engage in this sort of conduct should think again because there are serious consequences for this type of behaviour.At the time of the investigation, the Fair Work Ombudsman previously had a proactive compliance deed in place with the owners of the Coffee Club Franchise, Minor DKL Food Group (MDKL).James commended the companys cooperation through the course of the investigation and its approach to ensuring compliance in its network.Chokhani and Gaura Nitai ceased operating the Nundah Coffee Club outlet in May 2017.James said exploitation of workers with franchise chains continued to be a concern for the Fair Work Ombudsman and she welcomed the Governments proposed new laws relating to underpayments within franchise networks.In the 2015-16 financial year, 38 of the Fair Work Ombudsmans 50 litigations (76 per cent) involved a visa holder, and more than $3 million was recovered for all visa-holders.In April, James made a submission to a Senate Inquiry supporting the Fair Work Amendment (Protecting Vulnerable Workers) Bill 2017.James stated that the package of measures contained in the Bill will go some way to giving the Fair Work Ombudsman the tools to combat the most serious worker exploitation.
SWEEPING changes are being made at a secondary school in a bid to prevent it from closure.

Moira Green, who became headteacher at Chiltern Edge in Sonning Common last week, is planning to extend teaching hours and smarten up the uniform.

She has also cancelled a camping trip for year 7 pupils so staff could spend more time on site at the school while they work to improve standards.

The announcements were made to parents during a series of meetings last week and comes after the school was placed in special measures in April after an Ofsted inspection ruled that the Reades Lane school was inadequate.

Oxfordshire County Council, the education authority, is now consulting on possible closure while the regional schools commissioner is trying to find an academy sponsor for the school.

Miss Green, who started on Monday last week, wants the new uniform so it will make students look more business-like. This will include a blazer with shirt, tie and skirt or trousers.

There will also be rules on smart shoes and skirt length. Currently students wear polo shirts and sweatshirts.

Miss Green says the school day on Wednesdays, which currently finishes early at 2.10pm, will run until 3.10pm.

Both initiatives will begin in September when teachers will increase their teaching hours from 24 hours a week to 25.

Miss Green cancelled the year 7 camping trip, which was due to take place on Monday, and pupils will have a normal school day instead.

Later in the week they will complete the other planned activities, which include bell boating and visits to Dinton Pastures and Dorchester Abbey.

The pupils will camp for one night on the school field on Wednesday and on Friday, external groups, such as Amnesty International, will come into the school to speak about their work.

Parents will be partially refunded for the camp and the current year 7 pupils will instead go on a camp in June next year.

Campaigner Gemma Levy, who founded the Save Our Edge campaign, said that, on the whole, parents were pleased with the changes.

She said: Some people have said about more money being spent on uniform but we were told it could all be generic, meaning you can buy it from Asda or Tesco.

If you look at it in the long term, we were buying two or three blue polo shirts for the week, at about 10 each.

We were told she tested it and bought a whole uniform, including a shirt for every day, from Asda for 33. I dont think thats beyond anyone.

In terms of the camping trip people were disappointed but it was explained well enough. At the end of the day there wont be a school if she cant do what she needs to do. She said she was going to have to make some decisions which people are not going to like but that is what she is going to do and we have to support her.

The extra hour at school makes no difference to us. The kids are saying oh no but they are getting more of an education, which is what we want for our children.

Miss Green has confirmed to parents that the schools budget and in-year deficit, believed to be about 300,000, had been addressed and said it would have a balanced budget for the next school year.

A new behaviour policy is currently being drafted and, when it is implemented, she warned that there will be zero tolerance towards bad behaviour.

Miss Green has also announced her plan to implement a two-tier education standards system. This will see consultant teachers brought in to the school to raise standards and will be followed by hiring staff long term to continue the levels that have been set.

Meanwhile, campaigners are planning to meet with new Reading East MP Matt Rodda at the end of this week to discuss the school.

A group also plans to attend the county council cabinet meeting at County Hall, in Oxford, on July 18 when the decision on the schools future will be announced.
THE chairman of the Chiltern Centre for disabled children may have to brush up on his supermarket slogans after an embarrassing blunder at the charitys annual meeting.

Paul Barrett urged shoppers at the Henley branch of Waitrose to support the centre using the supermarkets community matters scheme, which sees customers put a green token in to one of three pots corresponding to a local charity or community group.

At the end of the month, the pot with the most tokens will see that charity receive a donation of up to 1,000 from the company.

While asking locals to support the Chiltern Centre pot, Mr Barrett said: Every little helps, before being reminded that this is the well-known slogan of supermarket rival Tesco.

On last check the Chiltern Centre pot seemed to have a healthy collection of tokens, so Mr Barrett may have gotten away with his slip of the tongue.
Patsy Hutch, brother of Gerry The Monk Hutch, is now considered the top Dublin-based target for the Kinahan cartel

Armed gardai have saved the life of top Kinahan cartel target Patsy Hutch by arresting two men and seizing a loaded gun in the area near his north inner city home.

The murder bid on the older brother of Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch was foiled when gardai arrested an associate of slain Regency gangster David Byrne and seized a "kill-kit" - including a loaded Glock handgun, a motorcycle helmet, gloves and a full can of petrol - deep in Hutch mob territory on Friday night.

Patsy (55) is considered the top Dublin-based target for the cartel, as The Monk is now based in Europe over fears for his life in the capital.

He has survived at least two hit attempts by the Kinahan cartel in the past 18 months and, as a result, his home is watched 24 hours a day by gardai.

Murder

His son, Gary Hutch (34), was shot dead by the Kinahans in southern Spain in September 2015, the first murder of the Hutch/Kinahan feud that has so far claimed 12 lives.

Another son, Derek 'Del Boy' Hutch (30), is serving a 10-year prison sentence for manslaughter, alongside a 16-year term for co-ordinating a robbery attempt.

On Friday night, armed gardai foiled the latest bid to take out Patsy when they arrested a 24-year-old Kinahan associate and a 26-year-old man.

Both are from Dublin's north inner city and were arrested after a moped was stopped by an Armed Support Unit checkpoint on the North Strand at 10pm on Friday.

The arrests were made after armed officers chased a vehicle that turned away from the checkpoint shortly after the moped was stopped.

The vehicle was apprehended by gardai in the vicinity of a second car, which officers suspect could have been used as a getaway car.

Sources say the moped was acting as a spotter for the hit .

"Patsy is a major target for the Kinahans, they see him as their number one Dublin-based target with Gerry out of the country," a source told the Herald last night.

"But anyone looking to take him out faces a difficult task as he is so closely monitored by gardai for his own safety."

Last July, Patsy Hutch survived an assassination bid after a lone gunman on a bicycle approached his house before failing to follow through with the attack.

The most recent feud victim was Michael Keogh, who was shot dead in his car on May 31.

On May 10, Hutch mob associate James 'Mago' Gately was lucky to survive a hit when he was shot five times, once in the neck.

The four other bullets hit his bullet-proof vest, which saved his life.
A drug addict who "tore a handbag" from a 78-year-old woman less than an hour after attempting another mugging has been sentenced to seven months in prison.

Damien Costello (37) was told by Judge Dermot Dempsey that he had committed "a cowardly and despicable act against the two women" and jail was the only appropriate place for him.

Costello, who has 19 previous convictions, approached the first woman (53) while she was on her way to work in Balbriggan, Co Dublin, just before dusk on a February evening last year, Swords District Court was told.

He grabbed her handbag but the strap broke and he got away with only that.

Around 40 minutes later, he approached the 78-year-old woman and ripped a handbag from her shoulder before running off with it.

The handbag contained a number of bank cards, a holy medal and identification along with money.

Costello was later found by gardai trying to use the woman's bank card at an ATM in Balbriggan.

Gda Nicholas Duane told the hearing that the handbag thefts happened when it was getting dark, and Costello appeared to be under the influence of drugs at the time he was arr- ested.

Overdose

Costello, of Kilbush Lane, Rush, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to the thefts of the handbags on Dublin Street, Balbriggan, on February 10 last year.

Two of his 19 previous convictions were for theft, the court heard.

David Costello, defending, said the defendant has a difficulty with drugs.

"He overdosed last September and was in a coma for a few weeks and his mother, who was a stabilising influence on him, died in 2015," he said.

"He doesn't exactly have great family support and he wasn't in the right state of mind on the day."

Mr Costello added that the defendant is on a dose of 70ml of methadone and has linked in with the Peter McVerry Trust, the charity set up to reduce homelessness and the harm caused by drug misuse and social disadvantage.

Lawyer Mr Costello added that the defendant is currently before a drugs court - problem-solving courts that take a public health approach to helping addicted offenders into long-term recovery - and asked Judge Dempsey to remand his client back there to continue the programme.

However, Judge Dempsey said it was a "cowardly and despicable act against the two women" and added that he was not prepared to send Costello back to the drugs court.

"A custodial sentence is appropriate. He robbed the two women late in the evening and community service is not appropriate either," said Judge Dempsey.

He sentenced Costello to seven months in prison.
A serial shoplifter who carried out 19 separate thefts from stores in Dublin has been jailed for six months.

Rebecca McEnroe (36) was sentenced after a court heard she stole nearly 8,000 of cosmetics and other goods during a thieving spree around the city over several months.

McEnroe had a drug addiction and had relapsed when she became depressed after the birth of a child. Dublin District Court heard she had been stealing to fund her addiction.

Jailing her, Judge Patricia McNamara refused to backdate the sentence to the start of a prison term McEnroe was already serving, saying there was a "multiplicity" of offences.

McEnroe, of Cathedral Walk in the south inner city, pleaded guilty to all charges.

The court heard the defendant was charged with 19 counts of theft, all involving shoplifting.

The total value of the goods stolen was 7,935 and the thefts were carried out in late 2016 and early this year.

Habit

The property was mostly cosmetics and was taken from pharmacies and supermarkets at several locations around the capital.

McEnroe was already serving a prison sentence for theft when she appeared in court, with a release date next month.

She had 59 previous convictions, most of which were for theft.

McEnroe had an addiction and was stealing to feed her habit, said her solicitor Richard Young.

She had since been attending a drugs counsellor on a regular basis.

She had worked in several jobs, including in a hotel and a cigarette factory.

After the birth of her oldest child, she suffered from depression which led to a relapse, said Mr Young.

A probation report on the accused stated that she was "engaging well" with addiction services.

Mr Young asked the judge to backdate the sentence to the date McEnroe went into custody in March.

The judge refused and set recognisances in the event of an appeal.
Despite only knowing a little about astronomy and constellations, 16-year-old Daniel Rose has made it his mission to improve everyones view of the night stars in Wise County, Virginia.

As an active Boy Scout, Rose is working to complete his Eagle Scout project. He wants to make the dark sky visible again in the region.

Rose is focusing his attention on Bark Camp Lake, an area he hopes will eventually become Virginias next dark-sky park after getting certified by the International Dark-Sky Association.

When I started researching my Eagle Scout project, I was asked if I would be interested in this project and I said yes, Rose said. I feel like everyone in the community should know about astronomy.

Dark-sky parks:  There are 49 dark-sky parks certified by the International Dark-Sky Park Association.  Most are in the U.S. and many are out west, particularly in Utah, Colorado and Texas.  There are also dark-sky communities, parks, reserves, sanctuaries and developments. The closest dark-sky parks to the Mountain Empire are:  Pickett CCC Memorial Park and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area in Jamestown, Tennessee  Staunton River State Park in Scottsburg, Virginia  Mayland Earth to Sky Park and Bark Dark Sky Observatory near Spruce Pine, North Carolina. To see the complete list, visit the website at: www.darksky.org/idsp/parks/ .

Hes making that happen by placing filters that will force light downward, instead of letting the light disperse. That alone will make constellations like the Milky Way more visible in Southwest Virginia.

We started out by replacing all the light fixtures at the lake, Rose said. We are now making sure that the lights are not interfering with the night sky because the sky needs to be as dark as possible.

Rose said there arent that many dark-sky parks on the East Coast and he hopes his project will put both Southwest Virginia and the state on the map and encourage people to take in the night sky.

The reason our community should be interested in this is because it will help improve tourism, Rose said. Plus, it will give everyone a good opportunity to view the stars and constellations in the night sky.

Having a dark-sky park is more than just star-gazing, according to Rose, who said the park is also a life-saving effort for nocturnal animals.

Some animals require a really dark sky like bats and other birds, Rose said. By having a dark-sky park in the area, it will give these animals a better outlook on life and also help them out as well.

Rose is in the middle of a lengthy application process with the International Dark Sky Association for the designation. According the IDA website, a dark sky park has a clear, starry sky view with a nocturnal environment that is protected for its scientific, natural, educational or public enjoyment.

We have most of the application filled out, Rose said. Were working on the last major details and the plan is to have the application complete and sent to the association within the next couple months.

Completion of the project and designation will be marked with a Dark Sky Festival at Bark Camp Lake this October, something that Rose said is he looking forward to the most.

It will be an event that is open to anyone who wants to come from the community, Rose said. There are a lot of star gazers in far Southwest Virginia and we hope that people will come out.

Daniels father, R.J. Rose, said he is proud of his son for taking a proactive step to improve the environment and give back to the community.

His strengths have always been in math and science, his father said. As a former Boy Scout myself, I hope that by having Daniel complete this project, it will give him more exposure to technology, science and engineering, especially as he begins to look at colleges and career possibilities later down the road.

Wise County Court Clerk and Dark Sky advocate, Jack Kennedy put Daniel in contact with Dr. Lucian Undreiu, a professor at the University of Virginias College at Wise, to help jump-start the project. Kennedy said he is proud of the efforts that Rose has shown so far and looks forward to seeing the end result.

Its so important for an Eagle Scout to be part of the community, Kennedy said. We are talking about future generations and anything we can do to inspire future generations, its important that we make that effort and give an educational opportunity like Daniel has with completing this project.

Kennedy said they expect to have an initial decision about the designation from the IDA later this summer. He added that the only negative feedback they have had is about a greater need for outreach and educational opportunities about dark-sky parks and their purpose.

This designation through Daniels project will give people a unique opportunity, Kennedy said. Many people have never seen the Milky Way or another type of galaxy. Dark-sky parks are in such limited areas and having a designated area would also be beneficial for Southwest Virginia, too.
UPDATED

BRISTOL, Va.  Three Bristol residents face felony drug charges after a federal search warrant was executed at a residence on Reedy Creek Road.

Elizabeth Pauline Eaton, 35, of Bristol, Virginia, was charged with possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, according to a news release from the Washington County Sheriffs Office. Bruce Douglas Ferguson Jr., 45, of Bristol, Virginia, and Sarah Helen Zint, 29, of Bristol, Tennessee, were each charged with possession of meth.

All three were transported to the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail in Abingdon. Eaton and Zint are being held without bail. Ferguson was released on a $1,500 secured bail.

Sheriff Fred Newman said a tip was received that meth was being manufactured at the residence, which led to the search warrant on Thursday.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, the Virginia State Police and the Russell County Sheriffs Office assisted.

BRISTOL, Va.  Three Bristol residents have been charged on three felony methamphetamine charges by the Washington County Virginia Sheriff's Office, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, the Virginia State Police and the Russell County Sheriff's Office.

On June 15, a federal search warrant was executed at a residence on Reedy Creek Road by members of the law enforcement agencies, according to a news release from the Washington County Sheriffs Office.

Elizabeth Pauline Eaton, 35, of Bristol, Virginia, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Bruce Douglas Ferguson, Jr., 45, of Bristol, Virginia, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine. Sarah Helen Zint, 29, of Bristol, Tennessee, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine.

All three were transported to the Abingdon Facility of the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail. Eaton and Zint are being held without bond. Ferguson was released on a $1,500 secured bond.

Washington County Sheriff Fred Newman said a tip was received that methamphetamine was being manufactured at the residence, which led authorities to obtain the search warrant.
The Senate is poised to vote on a healthcare bill written by 13 wealthy men. Their plan is to vote with no full Senate discussion, no outside expert input and no public input.

I called and emailed both Tennessee senators to ask if they would promise to vote no on any bill that doesnt cover pre-existing conditions for everyone and if they would promise to vote no on any bill that cuts Medicare.

Neither Sens. Bob Corker nor Lamar Alexander would say yes to either of those questions.

These men believe they can use sound bites to convince their constituents they are working for us. Neither of them will be personally affected by the bill they pass. We will. If you or anyone in your family is on regular medication or is on Medicare, Corker and Alexander are working against your best interests.

Rep. Phil Roe, R-Tenn., proved in his House vote on healthcare that hes not working for us. Now Corker and Alexander are about to follow suit.
Nearly 80 PA people have been charged for Jan. 6 riot. Three are dead.

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COLUMBUS  Columbus Hydraulics is poised for rapid growth and the local company is looking for people who can help it reach that goal.

The business was owned by the Cimpl family from 1969 to 2015, when it was bought by Minnesota-based acquisition holding company Arctic Capital. Before the sale, President and CEO Todd Duren said Columbus Hydraulics saw double-digit growth for years.

With the investment boost from Arctic Capital, the business is now expanding its market share and workforce.

Columbus Hydraulics currently has five to 10 job openings, according to Duren. "But we see with our very aggressive growth strategy probably adding 20 or more by the end of the year, he added.

That aggressive growth strategy includes expanding into more markets. Hydraulic cylinders can be found in equipment for agriculture, construction, turf care, emergency vehicles and almost anything that extends, contracts or bends.

The build demand is very, very good, said Manufacturing Vice President Bob Mills. It looks to be good for a very long time.

Mills joined the Columbus Hydraulics team two months ago. As someone with 20 years of manufacturing experience, Mills said he was looking for the right opportunity with the right company.

At my stage in my career I want to make sure I work for a place that has some meaning and is what I consider to be a great place to work, he said. Combining where the company had come from, from being very family-oriented and employee-focused, with that growth opportunity, that's what drew me.

Human resources representative and recruiter Jon Rauner was hired a year ago at a time when people were wondering how the acquisition would affect the company.

There were a lot of question marks initially when I heard about the company. But the reputation was that it was small, less than 200 people, so there was more of an environment for you to grow and make a difference, Rauner said. It worked out as a really good move for me.

Duren started 20 years ago as a sales engineer at Columbus Hydraulics before climbing to his current role of president and CEO. His story is an example of how, with a strong work ethic and interest in learning and growth, employees can advance in their careers.

We're big enough, I'd like to say, that you really can make a difference and grow in your career here in a lot of different aspects, he said.

Production manager Kevin Ainsworth said some people come in with specific skills, but there's an opportunity for anyone to learn if they have the right attitude and a strong interest.

We have entry-level positions where people start their career and decide which path they want to go, said Ainsworth. The career path is vast and broad with us.

Russ Beam joined the team as a manual welder in January and has since moved up to a welding lathe trainer.

I heard they were going somewhere and I thought, I want to get on that train, said Beam.

One of his trainees is his daughter, Angie, who he recommended to the company.

People told me they wanted another one just like me, Beam said. She learns the same way I do, same work ethic I do.

Angie said shes always had an interest in welding and took some classes in high school. After graduating she worked for about a year and a-half as a welder but was struggling to find a job until her father recommended Columbus Hydraulics.

Everyone is very welcoming, she said. If Ive got a question, everybody is very willing to help me.

One perk of the job shes excited about is the company has an in-house certified welding inspector. Once shes ready, she can take a welding test and become a certified welder.

Ainsworth said for the right employee there are opportunities to learn how to operate highly skilled, technical machines. And that can be a source of pride.

These people that run this equipment, these machines, they take ownership. They call it their machine because that's how they're empowered to feel, he said. Its their machine, its their product that they're putting out.

Empowerment is a big thing, he added.

One of those operators is Javier Caballero, whos been with the company 2 1/2 years. He operates a welding machine, something he enjoys more than manual labor.

Its a little more interesting because youre using your brain, he said.

With a wife and two children, Caballero also appreciates the companys flexibility.

Because so many employees are trained to wear multiple hats, if something comes up, theyre able to adapt, Rauner said.

We're a small enough company that we understand there's going to be things that come up in life, Rauner said. And we're small enough we're able to cross-train people around and help each other.

Caballero said he also appreciates the stability that helps him support his family. The company hasnt had a layoff in more than 50 years, according to Duren.

Its easy to go to sleep at night knowing youve got a job tomorrow and the next year and the year after, said Jim Sander, who has worked for Columbus Hydraulics since July 2004. Do your job, do it right, and they take care of you.

These are all components of a company culture that values and respects its employees. Rauner said that culture is evident from the top down.

A huge perk of coming here is that Todd (Duren) knows everybody's name. He's the president, he doesn't have to be out on the floor every day, but he knows everybody's name, he knows who we're hiring, said Rauner. You're a person. You're not a number, you're not a badge number, you're a person. And that's a huge perk of being part of this company.
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A few days ago when Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath took a vow to oust Bihars much-touted Grand Alliance by 2020, it became amply clear that the BJPs blueprint for the 2019 General Election was ready.

It will be a direct face-off between the two chief ministers  Nitish Kumar of Bihar and UPs Adityanath, instead of Nitish versus Narendra Modi, as projected in the previous two electoral battles in the state.

The new rising star of the party, Yogi is a polarizing figure, something that can easily cut through the caste equations of the Grand Alliance that had turned the tables on the BJP in the Bihar assembly polls held soon after the 2014 general election.

The saffron-robed Yogi still carries the aura of a Mahant, which blurs his Rajput caste and charms both the backwards and the forwards.

Political observer Prof Rajesh Singh says the BJP needed a fresh face to match the stature of Bihars two regional satraps  CM Nitish Kumar and RJD chief Lalu Prasad. Yogi fills that vacuum.

Despite the loss of face by Nitishs decision to stand by his scam-tainted partner Lalu Prasad, both remain undisputed leaders of their respective castes  Kurmi and Yadav.

Other observers point out that contrary to speculation about a re-alliance between the BJP and the JD(U), it is now clear that the saffron leadership is keen to decimate Nitish, who could become the rallying point for expanding the Grand Alliance from Bihar to Delhi.

Second, while Nitish has never fought an assembly election since 2004, Yogi has won elections every five years. This could generate moral pressure on the Bihar CM to face the electorate.

The BJP leadership has seemingly realised that only Hindutva could counter the social equations in caste-conscious Bihar where even Modis development model had failed to cut ice with the voters in 2015.

That leaves the BJP with the same formula that clicked in Uttar Pradesh  consolidate upper caste and other backward castes and scheduled castes. Political expert HV Shahi says Yogis deployment in Bihar will help in two ways. First,Yogi will have traction for the forward castes that somehow cannot relate to Sushil Modi. Second, Yogi will be able to reach out to the OBCs, break their hegemony that had hurt the BJPs prospects in the assembly elections.

However, more than the political planning it is the cultural and dialectical bonding of Gorakhpur with Bihar that will play out. Yogi who heads the Gorakhnath Peeth clicks in Bihar as he seen as one of their own, embedded in the same bati-chokha and sattu culture. Besides, the craze for home-grown leaders also gets stubbed by their very own Yogi leading the BJP campaign.

Lakhs of politically dominant Bhumihars, when facing the heat during Lalu Prasads first stint as chief minister had shifted their base to Gorakhpur. Many later moved out their businesses too.

Bihar leaders often campaign in UP and vice versa, so much so that film star Shatrughan Sinha had even addressed rallies in a mayoral election in Gorakhpur few years ago.

Political expert Abhay Kumar says, A polarising figure from western UP or even home minister Rajnath Singh would not have worked for the BJP as Mahant Yogi will.

That Yogi will lead a team of UP ministers, who will campaign for the 2019 elections, was spelt out by Sushil Modi himself when he had said, Yogi has been deputed to Bihar as part of the nationwide programme.

Yogi will soon visit almost every district in Bihar, before other parties hit the campaign trail by mid-2018. Already, his Hindu Yuva Vahini has spread its wings in Bihar.

Interestingly, Yogi is also targeting Nitishs strong constituency of women voters. While addressing a rally at Darbhanga recently, he said, My government has banned illegal slaughterhouses, launched anti-Romeo squads and started collecting opinion on triple talaq. Women feel safe in UP. Yogi was of course challenging Nitish to spell out his stand on the issue of triple talaq.

Clearly, from all indications, it is going to be Hindutva laced with development on Yogis platter for Bihar.
Bhojpuri actor and model Anjali Shrivastava was found dead at her Andheri west residence, police said here on Monday.

According to police, Anjalis family members from Allahabad had been trying to call her since Sunday night, but she did not respond on her mobile. Worried about her safety, the family contacted her landlord, who called the police and they entered her home on the fifth floor in Parimal Society on Juhu Road with a duplicate key on Monday afternoon. They found the 29-year-old actor hanging from the ceiling fan from a sari, presumably having committed suicide.

Mumbai: A 29-year-old actor Anjali Shrivastav allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself from a ceiling fan at her house in Andheri West  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Police searched her residence but did not find any suicide note or anything suspicious.

Her body has been sent for an autopsy to R. N. Cooper Hospital.

Anjali regularly updated her fan page on Facebook

Having worked in several Bhojpuri films, she acted last in the recent action-comedy film, Kehu Ta Dilme Ba.
Actor Raima Sen is on cloud nine as she has just moved into her new house  a sea - facing apartment in Juhu, Mumbai. More than buying the new pad, shes happy that she got to live her passion of being an interior designer with ideas from her sister and mother, actors Riya Sen and Moon Moon Sen, respectively. I always wanted to have my own house, where I would take care of the interiors entirely. A house turns into a home only when you have your family along with you. The home feels positive with much warmth and peace, says Raima, who has bought the flat in the same building where her mother lives  the person she is extremely close to.

Im very close to my mom and when I liked this [new] flat, I was so happy that I could stay closer to her while living in my own dream house. So you can say Ive now got two houses in the same building, laughs Raima.

Interestingly, Raima has looked after her new house from scratch and put much effort into making this her dream abode. Sharing her thoughts that went behind deciding the decor and colour of the house, Raima says, Ive kept it simple and elegant. Its all white. Its a sea-facing house with huge windows that make it appear more spacious. Also, the lighting for each room is different, which makes it look unique. The actor has picked up antique objects to adorn her house from cities such us Kolkata and Delhi. We pick up things like paintings, fans, sofa, whenever my parents or I travel, she adds.

The actor has also got herself a walk-in wardrobe, which she says was much needed, as she is a crazy shopaholic. Ask her about her favourite corner in the house, and prompt comes her reply, My sea-facing room. I love to sit and relax on my favourite arm chair and read. There is also another den, where I can spend time watching movies, back to back.

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Thirty-one student startup founders from six states are on a week-long visit to Silicon Valley to pitch, network and learn from the best at the tech Mecca under a flagship #StartInCollege programme instituted by the Startup Village Collective SV.CO in partnership with Facebook.

The students from various engineering colleges, who have built their startup products while enrolled in SV.COs digital learning program, are on a week-long visit to showcase their prototypes, learn product development and skills, and get exposure to the world class startup ecosystem in Silicon Valley, according to a release here.

SV.COs startup program for first-time founders is supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India,the U.S. Embassy in India and has multiple state partners giving support to their respective students.

Startup industry leaders Paytm and Freshworks are on board as partners providing scholarships and mentoring to students.

In the U.S., the team, the largest single Indian student startup delegation to visit the Silicon Valley, were welcomed by the City Council of Menlo Park and housed at Menlo College.

On Tuesday (June 20) the founders will visit the Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park where they will have a pitch session and get feedback from experts at the social media giant.

At Facebook, we believe the student community has a central role to play in helping build a world class startup ecosystem in India. We are pleased to support the Start-in-college program that cultivates a sense of purpose amongst students and enables them to build meaningful projects from their college campus, said Satyajeet Singh, Platform Partnerships, Facebook India.

During their week-long stay till June 24, the students will visit other valley landmarks,including offices of Google, Intel, Silicon Valley Bank, Freshworks, Zendesk and Bootup Ventures; and attend startup workshops at the North Eastern University and Google Launchpad.

Leading entrepreneur turned venture capitalist Rajeev Madhavan will share with the students his insights on building two multi-hundred million dollar technology startups.

Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) is sponsoring 19 of the students as part of its international programme for startups.

If we are to build a world-class startup ecosystem in India, as is our goal, our entrepreneurs need to get first-hand experience of global best practices.

KSUMs international programme is intended for promising young founders to have that experience and increase their level of confidence while in college itself so they get an early startup said Dr Saji Gopinath, CEO, KSUM.

The Startup Village Collective SV.CO, a first-of-its-kind digital platform with a mission is to build a world class learning platform for students to become startup professionals and explore their full potential in life.

The Silicon Valley visit is to give the students a world class global exposure very early in life so that they can be more confident, motivated and get the ability to dream bigger than ever before as they immerse in the startup culture in Silicon Valley said Sanjay Vijayakumar, Chairman, Startup Village Collective.
Bankers are meeting from Monday to finalise their next course of action on six of the 12 bad loan accounts after the Reserve Bank of India named the largest defaulters to face bankruptcy proceedings.

The first set of six troubled accounts are Bhushan Steel (Rs 44,478 crore), Essar Steel (Rs 37,284 crore), Bhusan Power and Steel (Rs 37,248 crore), Alok Industries (Rs 22,075 crore), Amtek Auto (Rs 14,074 crore) and Monnet Ispat (Rs 12,115 crore), a banker said.

According to RBI, these 12 accounts owe Rs 2.5 trillion to the system, which constitute around 25% of gross bad loans.

Beginning Monday, banks are meeting to discuss six of the 12 accounts named by the RBI before referring accounts to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) by the end of this month, a banker told PTI.

The other accounts named for bankruptcy action, according to bankers, include Lanco Infra (Rs 44,364.6 crore), Electrosteel Steels (Rs 10,273.6 crore), Era Infra (Rs 10,065.4 crore) Jypaee Infratech (Rs 9,635 crore) ABG Shipyard (Rs 6,953 crore) and Jyoti Structures with a defaulted loan of Rs 5,165 crore.

Last week, the RBIs internal advisory committee (IAC) had sent the list of 12 accounts to bankers for immediate reference under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). These 12 accounts are led by SBI (six of them), PNB, ICICI Bank, Union Bank, IDBI Bank and Corporation Bank, according to bankers.

Since these are large accounts and involve multiple banks, the lenders will try to take a common view on all administrative requirements before referring these accounts to the NCLT.

Another banker said they will also decide on appointment of insolvency professional (IP) who will later decide on the resolution plan and submit it to the lenders for their consideration.

While ABG Shipyard, Amtek Auto, Alok Industries, Bhushan Steel, Bhushan Power and Steel, Electrosteel Steels, Jaypee Infratech, Jyoti Structures and Monnet Ispat and Energy did not respond to e-mails sent to them, Era Infra and Lanco Infra could not be contacted.

Top 12 Loan Defaulters S.No. Company Defaulted Loan 1 Bhushan Steel Rs 44,478 cr 2 Essar Steel Rs 37,284 cr 3 Bhusan Power and Steel Rs 37,248 cr 4 Alok Industries Rs 22,075 cr 5 Amtek Auto Rs 14,074 cr 6 Monnet Ispat Rs 12,115 cr 7 Lanco Infra Rs 44,364.6 cr 8 Electrosteel Steels Rs 10,273.6 cr 9 Era Infra Rs 10,065.4 cr 10 Jypaee Infratech Rs 9,635 cr 11 ABG Shipyard Rs 6,953 cr 12 Jyoti Structures Rs 5,165 cr

When reached out for comment, Essar Steel spokesperson said, We are not aware of any such development.

These 12 accounts referred by the RBI have an exposure of more than Rs 5,000 crore each, with 60% or more classified as bad loans by banks as of March 2016.

Once a case is referred to the NCLT, there is a time line of 180 days to decide on a resolution plan. An additional 90 days can also be given. If a plan is not decided, then the company will go into liquidation.

Total NPAs of the banking system stand at over Rs 8 trillion of which Rs 6 trillion are with public sector banks. Last month, the government had cleared an ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act, giving the RBI more powers to direct banks to resolve bad loans.

Bankers, however, are worried about the haircut they may have to take if the accounts go into liquidation.

It needs to be seen that what kind of haircut we will have to take. In case of liquidation, there will be a large haircut we will have to suffer, said an executive director of a state-owned bank.

The internal advisory committee of the RBI had identified these 12 accounts after studying top 500 ones of the banking system.
Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with Indias Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

Indias air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

But Modis Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with US President Donald Trumps America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, a joint statement by the firms said.

Swedens Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June. 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the worlds largest defense contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the worlds most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter, the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.
The Income Tax Department has ordered coercive action against Cairn Energy Plc to recover Rs 10,247 crore of retrospective tax after the British oil firm lost a challenge to the move before an international arbitration panel.

The department ordered taking away $104 million dividend due to it from its remaining stake in the erstwhile subsidiary Cairn India (now called Vedanta Ltd) and another Rs 1,500 crore of tax refund due to it, a top source said.

This follows an international arbitration panel last week deciding not to entertain a plea by Cairn Energy seeking injunction against the coercive action to recover the tax.

The source said the tax department will now move to take over the 9.8% shareholding Cairn Energy had in Cairn India.

In an emailed statement, Cairn Energy confirmed the tax departments move.

On June 16, 2017 the Indian Income Tax Department (IITD) issued an order to Vedanta India Ltd (VIL) directing it to pay over any sums due to Cairn. Sums due to Cairn from VIL now total USD 104 million, including historical dividends of $ 53 million and a further dividend of $ 51 million after the merger of CIL and VIL, it said.

The company said however that it will continue with the international arbitration proceedings against the retrospective tax demand.

Cairn is seeking full restitution for (UK-India Bilateral Investment Treaty) Treaty breaches resulting from the expropriation of its investments in India in 2014, the attempts to enforce retrospective tax measures and the failure to treat the Company and its investments fairly and equitably, it said.

The company said it has a high level of confidence in its case under the Treaty and, in addition to resolution of the retrospective tax dispute, its claim seeks damages equal to the value of the Groups residual shareholding in Cairn India at the time it was attached (approximately $1 billion).
The Sensex recorded a significant recovery of 255 points to close at a new peak of 31,312 today and the Nifty reconquered the key 9,600, riding piggyback on GST headway and expectations of reforms by regulator Sebi.

There was more of buying as investors saw NPA resolution gaining traction after the Reserve Bank asked lenders to initiate bankruptcy proceedings against large defaulters.

Opening strong, the BSE 30-share index hit a high of 31,362.15, before closing at a new record high of 31,311.57, up 255.17 points, or 0.82 %, breaking its previous record closing of 31,309.49 on June 5.

The gauge had lost 99.51 points in the previous two sessions.

The 50-share Nifty scaled a high of 9,673.30 before ending up 69.50 points, or 0.72 %, at 9,657.55.

Risk-on improved after the GST Council on Sunday relaxed return filing rules for businesses for the first two months of the tax rollout even as it stuck to the July 1 launch date.

Driven by the seriousness shown by policymakers to resolve the bad loan problem, banking stocks led by SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank extended gains, rising by up to 1.94 %.

Market participants also seemed comforted by Sebis plans to relax its norms for direct registration of foreign investors and fast-track the listing process for companies, including startups, as part of efforts to make the Indian stock market more attractive for investments.

Global cues turned positive as Asian markets ruled firm following weekend record closing at the Wall Street and a commanding majority for President Emmanuel Macron in French parliamentary elections. Britain also started formal Brexit talks, which buoyed mood here.
Indian low-cost carrier SpiceJet has committed to buy the new 737 MAX 10 planes from Boeing Co, the companies said, becoming an inaugural customer for an aircraft designed to blunt strong sales of rival planemaker Airbus A321neo.

The agreement for 40 aircraft, valued at $4.7 billion at current list prices, includes an order for 20 new 737 MAX 10 planes and conversion of 20 of SpiceJets 737 MAX 8 aircraft from an existing order, the two companies said in a statement on Monday.

We are proud to be a part of the launch of the 737 MAX 10 and to be the first airline in India to order the newest version of the 737, which will enable us to maximize revenue on our dense routes while having a lower unit seat cost, SpiceJets chairman and managing director, Ajay Singh, said in the statement.

Indonesian budget carrier Lion Air and China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings could also be among the inaugural customers for Boeings new 737 MAX 10 planes, sources have told Reuters.

Asia, especially India, is a key market for planemakers, with analysts expecting Indian passenger numbers to more than triple over the next 20 years as millions more people become wealthy enough to fly for the first time.

piceJet, which was briefly forcSed to ground its fleet in late 2014 when it ran out of cash, is the fourth-largest Indian airline behind InterGlobe Aviations IndiGo, Jet Airways and state-run Air India.

SpiceJet, which operates a fleet of 35 Boeing 737s and 20 Bombardier Q400s, agreed in January to acquire 100 new MAX 737 aircraft as part of its expansion plans in the worlds fastest growing aviation market.

The budget carrier plans to grow its operational fleet to 200 airplanes by the end of the decade and expand regionally with the new 737 MAX family of airplanes. SpiceJet will take delivery of its first 737 MAX in 2018.
Students graduating from different colleges in Uttarakhand would be soon flinging up the pahari topis instead of the square black caps at the convocation ceremonies.

The square black caps, popularly known as convocation caps or graduation caps, alongwith the traditional gowns worn during the convocations are on their way out in Uttarakhand where chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has termed them relics of the colonial era.

States higher education minister Dhan Singh Rawat has all but finalised the black pahari topi and white muffler to be worn during convocations. All that remains to be finalized is the replacement for the gown.

On a trial basis, the pahari topi and white muffler were used for the first time during the convocation ceremony at Sri Dev Suman Uttarakhand University (SDSUU). Dhan Singh and Governor KK Paul, who were present at theceremony on Saturday, also donned the ethnic topi and muffler.

It was a trial. Efforts are on to select and create a proper dress code based on traditional Indian and Uttarakhandi ethnic attires for convocation ceremonies. We dont want to hang on to the decades-old British dress code for graduation ceremony. The CM also wants it to happen, said the minister, who is scouring ancient Hindu religious texts to find a replacement for the ceremonial robe.

According to sources in the higher education department, search is still on for proper replacement of the gowns. According to the sources, the government may also make pichora, a traditional ceremonial stole from Kumaon, a part of the convocation ensemble.

The hunt for new convocation attire began after chief minister refused to wear the traditional gown during the convocation ceremony of University of Petroleum and Energy Studies few days back and said that the country should take pride in its ancestors, its ancient wisdom and culture and should not give up its roots.

The CM had later taken to micro-blogging site Twitter suggesting that the traditional pichora, payjama-kurta, jacket and cap could be a substitute. He also sought suggestions from the public.

Dhan Singh has already said that his department is looking into the dresses that were sported in Takshila, one of the earliest known universities dating back to 1000 BCE. Takshila is situated in present-day Rawalpindi in Pakistan. The minister had also talked about the mention of an acharyakulam (school based on Vedic education) in Skanda Puran, one of the earliest Vedic religious texts. It would be interesting to know what ceremonial dresses were in fashion in those times, he had said.

The debate over the convocation robe started in 2010 when former environment minister Jairam Ramesh shrugged off the dress in a convocation ceremony of IIFM in Bhopal, terming it as a barbaric colonial practice.
DEHRADUN: Anup Khanduri, 42, sits in his wheelchair, sullen faced outside chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawats official residence in Cantonment area. I came here to attend the Janata Darbar held by the chief minister hoping that he will sanction my request for monetary help, says the paraplegic. But I am going back empty handed.

Unemployed and a father to a daughter, Khanduri arrived to attend the Janta Darbar on Monday morning. Accompanied by his wife, he reached the venue all the way from Srinagar by a taxi at the end of an arduous four-and-a-half hour journey. It cost me Rs 5,000, a hefty sum I cant afford to spend.

Officials, he said, cited a strange reason to turn down his request. I was told that my request for a monetary help cant be entertained as my application went missing. It went missing just half-an-hour after it was submitted to officials present during the janata darbar!

He was told that his request would be entertained provided he submitted all the medical bills of expenses he spent in his treatment. Officials were not ready to accept that I am a paraplegic despite the fact that I was physically present before them, Khanduri said.

The Srinagar local said he desperately needed a monetary help of Rs 2 lakh so that he could start a small business to look after his family.

Khanduri said the chief minister though appeared to be sympathetic towards him. He (Rawat) told me that he understood my condition, said the applicant. But before I could share with the chief minister my problem he left the venue announcing that he had to attend a programme at the Raj Bhavan.

Like Khanduri, there were a few people with special needs who returned disappointed. Thakur Singh, 34, a paraplegic who reached here all the way from Lansdowne, had a request to get himself reinstated in his job at the district sainik welfare office. I was abruptly removed from my job in 2015. I was not paid even my four-months salary, the wheel chair bound Singh saidHe said he was already having a tough time owing to his condition. On top of it, I am without a job and have a family to look after, Singh said, adding he request for a job to the chief minister but got no assurance.

A group of women activists had come from Garhwali Colony to demand that the CM ordered the closure of a recently opened liquor shop in their area. We wanted to take up the issue with the chief minister but he has already left, Sarita Bisht, one of the residents of Garhwali colony, said.

Mahendra Kaur Chanana, 60, a resident of Patel Nagar, said she complained to Rawat against some goons who had illegally occupied her 21 bigha land. I am disappointed that he gave us no assurance despite we showing him all land related papers.



Similarly, Meenakshi Chaudhary, 53, a resident of the citys Gurudwara road area, alleged officials had illegally occupied her ancestral home. She also failed to get an assurance from the chief minister

Vinod Sharma, secretary, Home, said on the spot decisions cant be taken on land related disputes. He added that the CM had already directed officials to resolve the various issues which paraplegics took up with him during the Janata Darbar.

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Uttarakhands ghost villages tell a story. The crumbling houses devoid of any human presence, the abandoned farms run over by overgrown bushes, the eerie silence broken by intermittent shrieks of monkeys or other wild animals, they all tell a story.

The story is of utter neglect that these villages faced over the years and under successive governments; of lack of opportunities; and of the forced migration of their residents from the hills to the plains in search of a better life.

Nothing much has changed in 18 years of the states creation despite several promises and schemes announced by the successive governments, including the current dispensation. To stem the exodus from the hills, chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat recently announced selfie from my village campaign urging people from Uttarakhand to visit their native village alongwith their children during the summer vacations and post photos on social media.

Now, creative artist and life skills educator Deepak Ramola along with a team of volunteers has taken up a project. They are painting life stories on the walls of abandoned houses at Tehri districts Saur village. The more than three-centuries old hamlet is on the verge of becoming yet another ghost village --- according to Census 2011, there are 1,048 ghost villages in the hill state --- with only 12 families still living there.

He is also documenting interviews of members of the 12 families. Deepak, who runs Project FUEL (Forward the Understanding of Every Life-lesson), claims that Saur would be first village to have painted life lessons on the walls of its houses.

Life lessons on walls of abandoned houses in Saur village. (HT Photo)

So, what are these life lessons?

They are the lessons are from day-to-day life or from the rituals and customs followed by the villagers. For example, we painted a wall depicting how villagers pray to Goddess Surkanda when rains are delayed. Then there are some regular scenes like men listening to radio, children playing or women busy with kids, Deepak told Hindustan Times.

He believes that the Wise Wall Project would help bring in tourists thereby helping the generate livelihood opportunities for the locals. The project launched on June 1, would conclude on June 30.

Similar efforts to generate tourism were undertaken in a village in Hungary. Residents of Bodvalenke village painted walls of their houses with interesting motifs and murals. The efforts paid off and Bodvalenke, now known as The Fresco Village, has become a major tourist attraction.

I have to live in such a way that someday a total stranger will stop me in the street, look me straight in the eye, and say without any affectation, Good job. Thats all, Deepak says about his project in an Instagram post

Earlier, the previous Congress government led by Harish Rawat tried introducing policies promoting agriculture, industries, and floriculture encouraging local entrepreneurs. He also facilitated adding airstrips at Gauchar, Chinyalisaud and Pithoragarh to generate local employment opportunities, but couldnt work on the issue comprehensively.

For the BJP-led present government, migration remains a big issue. The recent budget saw some promises -- from constructing residential schools and hostels in hills to providing employment to 13,200 youngsters, and developing Kaushal Vikas Kendra for skill development. The efficacy of these, however, could be only discussed during the term end.

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Tibetan Buddhist monks on Monday prayed to angry Snake God, who according to their belief lives close to water bodies, to rejuvenate iconic Naini Lake in Nainital district. The lake is witnessing gradual depletion of water for the past two years.

A large number of Tibetan refugees, who follow Buddhism, live in the district. The monks said they prayed to Snake God to forgive humans for bringing the lake to such a bad condition.

We are praying to Snake God to forgive all of us and bring the lake to its old glory. We have brought four monks who prayed near the lake side so the angry god forgives, Tenzing Longthong, a Tibetan, told HT.

The monks made the idol of Snake God from flour, milk, curd, clarified butter, sugar, jaggery and honey. The idol, after the prayers, was immersed in the lake.

On June 14, the community prayed atop hill peaks. They will hold next prayer on July 8 to for the long life of the lake.

The falling water-level of the lake has left locals baffled for the past last couple of months.

A barefoot walk by thousands of local residents was held on June 3 from Gandhi statue to Pant statue on the Mall Road to highlight the dying condition of the lake. Meetings at different levels are being carried out regarding the water level of the Naini Lake.

Concerned over depletion of Naini Lakes water-level, experts have asked the state government to declare Nainital as an eco-sensitive zone and bar any construction work near the water body.

The 4.7 square km freshwater lake has never been like this. The stretched mounds of debris and the smell of dead fish dont give a pleasant sight.

The erratic rainfall pattern coupled with the encroachment of natural recharge sources of the lake and growing demand of water are blamed for the present state of the lake.

A natural catchment of the lake called Sukhatal has been encroached upon over the last few years.

Nearly 15 million litres water lifted every day from the lake to fulfil the need of locals and tourists. Being a resort town, Nainital heavily depends on tourist influx.

If so much water is lifted and with less or no water to recharge the lake, we lose almost 3-4 centimetres of water level every day said environmentalist Ajay Rawat, who filed a litigation in the high court in 2015 demanding Sukhatal to be made encroachment free.

Shirish Kumar, secretary of Nainital Lake Development Authority responsible for keeping the tab on illegal construction, accepted that they were slow owing to administrative issues.

Besides Sukhatal, some 60-odd natural water sources recharge the lake round the year. And with growing constructions, no less than half of them have dried up, Rawat said.

Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government has transfered the maintenance of lake from the public works department to the irrigation department.

Chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat, during a visit to Nainital on June 9, granted 3 crore for conservation of the dying lake. (With inputs from Anupam Trivedi)
The day old prematurely born, who was declared dead by the hospital staff and handed over to his parents for burial, is fighting for life in Delhis Safdarjung Hospital even as the hospital is conducting an enquiry into the gross negligence.

The 24-week-old baby  a full term pregnancy gestation is 40 weeks  who weighed less than 460gm at birth is in the hospital nursery on oxygen support. The doctors treating the newborn at Safdarjung are not hopeful of him pulling through. Even though we are doing our best, he is not doing too well and chances of survival are quite slim, said Dr AK Rai, medical superintendent at the hospital.

Meanwhile, an inquiry into the lapse is on. The team is investigating to identify why was the child declared dead, Rai said. Kanti Devi, 28, gave birth to the infant on Sunday morning in the 24th week of pregnancy  a full term healthy pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. The baby weighed barely 460gm.

As the boy showed no signs of life, the staff declared him dead without making any attempts to resuscitate the newborn.

Experts say premature babies below 500gm normally do not survive in India, and even if they do, they develop several complications later on in life. A newborns healthy birthweight is more than 2.5kg.

It is an ethical issue because taking care of severely premature babies requires serious medical and financial support. If by chance a baby survives she would develop conditions such as cerebral palsy, and need constant care, said Dr Deepika Deka, professor at gynaecology department, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

The hospital does admit babies as premature as 26 weeks but in most cases parents are well informed about the dismal survival rate and complications later in life in case they survive.

We take consent of the parents before admitting severely premature babies after thoroughly Counselling them with the help of a neonatologist about the consequences. Keeping such babies involves a huge cost, she said.

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A team of Central Bureau of Investigation officials questioned Delhi health minister Satyendar Jains wife for six hours on Monday in connection with a money laundering case.

CBI spokesperson RK Gaur confirmed it and added that the examination of Jains wife was being done to seek clarifications in connection to a preliminary enquiry (PE).

The matter was referred to the CBI by income tax department under the new Benami Transactions Prohibitions Act, a law brought in to fight black money.

This came a few days after a CBI team had visited deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia at his house to record his statement in its preliminary enquiry into the Talk to AK programme.

It is alleged that Jain was involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore, when he was a public servant during 2015-16, through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, the CBI said.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), meanwhile, accused the central government of vendetta politics. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia alleged that the central agencies raiding AAPs offices is nothing but a ploy to divert attention from the Vyapam scam, Panama papers and alleged irregularities in the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA).

In June, the CBI had questioned Jain with regard to a preliminary enquiry (PE) into accusations of money laundering lodged against him in April. The enquiry was registered to look into allegations that the AAP leader, already battling accusations of nepotism, laundered over Rs 4 crore through a web of shell companies, officials in the Central Bureau of Investigation told HT.

A preliminary enquiry is done to ascertain if the accusations merit a probe.

There are three pending preliminary enquiries against the minister. One of the allegations against Jain pertain to the acquisition of agriculture land worth over Rs 27 crore in Delhi by private companies linked to him and misuse of his official position to influence regularisation of illegal colonies in the national capital, CBI officials had earlier said. IT documents suggested that Jain had  purchased more than 200 bigha land in north and northwest Delhi in close vicinity of unauthorised colonies in the name of companies controlled by him.

AAP blames BJP

The AAP said the central agency was acting at the behest of BJP and the case was fictitious. Party spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said, All characters and events depicted in the CBIs story are entirely fictitious. It claims that two persons -- Sanjay and Suresh -- have been working with Jain since 2010 and both used to send hawala money through Kolkata-based hawala racketeers. But we believe these persons do not exist.

This clearly establishes that the BJP is misusing the CBI and the I-T department to implicate Jain, Bhardwaj said.

The I-T department has said that four persons have given statements against the minister. However, the AAP claimed that their statements were recorded by pressuring them. When Jain told the I-T department he wanted to confront the four persons, it allowed him to talk to one Babloo. But he broke down and confessed within five minutes that Jain had nothing to do with this case, an AAP said in a statement.
Over a hundred people gathered at Jantar Mantar on Sunday, demanding a separate statehood of Gorkhaland and condemning the recent unrest in Darjeeling.

Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) has claimed that three of its supporters were killed and several persons injured when protestors had recently clashed with police in Darjeeling.

The GJM has been at the forefront of agitation for a separate state of Gorkhaland. The Darjeeling unrest intensified after police raided its premises on June 15.

Waving national flags and holding posters with slogans We want Gorkhaland written across them, protestors said that they were angry with the policies of the West Bengal government.

The recent decision of the Mamta Banerjee government to declare Bengali as a mandatory subject for all students till Class 10 in the state has fulled the unrest.

Bengali cannot be made mandatory in schools. This is unjust and unacceptable. We are against such decisions made by the West Bengal government. We have come here to condemn the recent open firing in Darjeeling where innocents were killed, said 40-year-old Sagan Moktan, one of the protestors.

Apart from locals, supporters and volunteers associated with different political groups and NGOs participated in the event, protestors claimed.

The protest began around 11am and went on till 4pm. Protestors said that a similar protest might be organised next week, if the West Bengal government does not take conclusive steps to stop the unrest unfolding in Darjeeling.
Situated in south Delhis Adhchini village, it is not listed in guidebooks. No large crowds gather in its courtyard, unlike, say, in the famous shrine of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.

And this is strange because Mai Sahiba is a memorial to Nizamuddins mother, Bibi Zulekha.

Mai Sahiba is also a special place because it is the only Sufi shrine in the capital, other than Bibi Fatima Sams dargah in Kaka Nagar, that is devoted to a woman. In addition, it is a rare Sufi shrine where women are allowed to enter and pray.

The dargahs sanctum sanctorum has silver-plated columns and pink curtains. Bibi Zulekhas grave is always covered with rose petals. Her parents belonged to Bukhara in Central Asia, from where they moved to the Indian subcontinent to escape the Mongol invasion. Following her husbands early death in Badayun, Bibi Zulekha moved to Delhi with her children Nizamuddin and Bibi Jannat  the daughter lies buried next to her.

The fact that this dargah is not so well-known works in its favour. The relative anonymity makes it a secluded space, soothing and solitary. To take a break and spend some time in its silent and carpeted courtyard refreshes the soul. Ideally, once inside the dargah, you ought to turn off your mobile phone, sit quietly and just be with yourself  one of the toughest things to do in these times.
When we think of Indian jails, what comes to mind is overcrowding, lack of proper sanitation and human rights violations. So, the move by the Uttar Pradesh government to set up gaushalas on jail premises comes as a bit of a surprise. Last year, Haryana announced that it would set up gaushalas in jails.

The rationale is that this will provide another form of productive activity for prisoners and will also utilise surplus land on jail premises. But this is clearly a case of misplaced priorities. The state governments which are planning to set up these facilities should first take a long hard look at the conditions in jails that need to be set right first. At the all India level, the occupancy rate at the beginning of last year was 114.4%. Two-thirds of all prisoners are undertrials, people not convicted of any crime and who are packed like sardines into small spaces. Of these, an average of four dies every day. Two-thirds of these deaths are deemed to be suicides and some are murders at the hands of other inmates. Seventy per cent of convicts are semi-literate or illiterate and the plight of women prisoners is particularly worrying. They are at risk of violence both from other inmates and prison guards. A major problem that most inmates face is lack of sleep thanks to overcrowding and excess heat or cold. These are some of the issues that should exercise state governments.

If there is surplus land, it could be gainfully used to set up literacy or computer centres with an aim to dispense rehabilitative justice as opposed to retributive justice. The idea should be to enable the prisoner to be gainfully employed once he has served his term and reintegrate into society. The setting up of gaushalas is part of a political agenda in most BJP-ruled states. But to use surplus land on jail grounds in no way helps the prisoners.

Dairy farming is certainly a skill but this would also suppose that the prisoner once freed would have access to livestock in order to earn an income. The government could think also of using the land to set up counselling centres for prisoners. In fact, surplus land can also be used to expand the prison facilities so that overcrowding can be lessened. The government cannot be totally focused on cow protection and promotion at the cost of other pressing issues.
Every now and then, one of Indias most prestigious engineering colleges cuts off power to its hostels for an hour in the evening.

The practice, at IIT Kharagpur, is not to save electricity or cut costs. It is instead part of efforts to get students to mingle  contact that officials hope will help cut stress after three of its students killed themselves between January and April this year.

IIT Kharagpur is part of the countrys marquee Indian Institutes of Technology colleges that lakhs vie for each year. Only a few thousands make it, entering a college of intense competition with some of the best minds to vie for top jobs at the end of their four-year course.

Students are meeting increasingly less. This naturally creates a lot of problems as they end up being alone. This small step will help them connect when they take a 10-minute coffee or tea break, said Manish Bhattacharya, dean of students affairs of IIT Kharagpur, while explaining another effort to draw students out by installing vending machines for free tea and coffee.

The machines, for which a Japanese company has been roped in, will be in place from the academic year beginning this summer.

The blackout hours are helping, students say. It was like an outreach programme where the administration wanted to speak to us tell us what had happened and how it was important to be connected with fellow students. Many came out of compulsion but realised that it helped. Students interacted with each other, even discussing the suicides that had been troubling for many of us, said Anisha Sharma, a student.

The latest suicide was on April 8, when a fourth-year student was found hanging in his hostel room.

Other efforts include a programme for parents with psychiatric professionals, courses on happiness mental well-being, and reaching out to alumni who faced depression during their college days.

Depression is seen as among the main reasons and students say the institute lacks adequate number of counsellors.

Mental health professionals on campus reported depression, adjustment disorders and, in some cases, personality disorders as among the cases they often come across.

The first thing that parents ask us when they come to drop their children to the institute is about placements and package. They need to stop this. It puts unnecessary pressure on the students. This is the reason we have decided to have an orientation programme with the parents too, said PP Chakrabarti, IIT Kharagpurs director.

Officials said they will also turn a microcredit elective on the science of happiness well-being into a 3-credit course for all students from the next academic year.

We are evolving more courses so students will be able to go for micro-specialisation in science and happiness. The subjects that they take up include depression, grief, so these projects that they take up to engineer happiness are meaningful, said Prof P Patnaik, IIT Kharagpur.

The courses are run by the institutes Rekhi Centre of Excellence for the Science of Happiness.

IIT Kharagpur has also decided to collaborate with an agency to identify the strength of students instead of their weaknesses, as is the case with current evaluation systems.

Officials are in touch with alumni for campaigns that will prod students to open up.

Some of the alumni have approached us and they will share their experiences by recording it and circulating it on the website and Facebook page of the institute. There is a stigma attached with depression and this will address that, the spokesperson said.

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Scientists have found that exposure to just 10 minutes of light at night suppresses biting and manipulates flight behaviour of malaria mosquitoes.

Critical behaviours exhibited by the species, such as feeding, egg-laying and flying, are time-of-day specific, including a greater propensity for night-time biting.

While insecticide-treated bed nets and walls have helped prevent bites and reduce malaria, mosquitoes are adapting to preventive conditions, leaving adults and children vulnerable in the early evening and early morning hours  when they are not under the nets or in the house.

We need to discover new methods to address mosquito control and prevention. The systems and tools we currently have, including global distribution and usage of insecticide-treated bed nets and spraying, are not enough, said Giles Duffield, associate professor at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, US.

The research team is testing the effectiveness of different wavelengths of light, such as red light, that would be less disturbing to adults and children while they sleep. (HT File Photo)

The findings, published in the journal Parasites and Vectors, suggest that light can be used to manipulate mosquitoes, thereby offering a potential novel solution to preventing bites and reducing malaria.

For the study, Duffield and his team tested the mosquitoes preference to bite during their active host-seeking period by separating them into multiple control and test batches.

Control mosquitoes were kept in the dark, while test batches were exposed to a pulse of white light for 10 minutes. Researchers then tested the propensity of the mosquitoes to bite immediately after the pulse and every two hours throughout the night, holding their arms to a mesh lining that allowed uninfected mosquitoes to feed while remaining contained.

Results indicated a significant suppression. In another experiment, mosquitoes were pulsed with light every two hours, and using this multiple pulse approach the team found that biting could be suppressed during a large portion of the 12-hour night.

Most remarkable is the prolonged effect a short light treatment has on their preference to bite, with suppression lasting as long as four hours after the pulse, Duffield said.

This may prove to be an effective tool that complements established control methods used to reduce disease transmission, Duffield added.

Pulses of light would probably be more effective than constant exposure, Duffield said, as the mosquitoes would be less likely to adapt to light presented in periodic doses.

The research team is testing the effectiveness of different wavelengths of light, such as red light, that would be less disturbing to adults and children while they sleep, with an aim towards developing field-applicable solutions.

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A virtual reality therapy that involves watching calming 3D videos can significantly reduce pain for hospitalised patients, according to a study. Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in the US examined 100 hospitalised patients who reported pain scores of greater than three on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale from zero to 10.

Fifty patients received virtual reality (VR) therapy consisting of wearing VR goggles to watch calming video content such as helicopter rides over scenic portions of Iceland, or imagery of swimming in the ocean with whales. Those patients reported a 24 per cent drop in pain scores after using the virtual reality goggles.

Another 50 patients viewed a standard, two-dimensional nature video, depicting relaxing scenes with a calming music audio track, on a close-proximity screen. Although those patients also experienced a reduction in pain, the decrease of 13.2 per cent was less dramatic.

Results indicate virtual reality may be an effective tool along with traditional pain management protocols, said Brennan Spiegel, director of Cedars-Sinais Health Service Research. This gives doctors and patients more options than medication alone, he said.

While it remains unknown exactly how VR works to reduce pain, Spiegel attributes the benefit to what he calls immersive distraction. When the mind is deeply engaged in an immersive experience, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to perceive other stimuli, including pain.

The study showed participants calming videos including helicopter rides over Iceland, or imagery of swimming in the ocean with whales. (REUTERS)

We believe virtual reality hijacks the senses, but in a good way, Spiegel said, adding, It creates an immersive distraction that stops the mind from processing pain, offering a drug-free supplement to traditional pain management, he said.

Since the VR intervention was only 15 minutes long and included only one visualisation, it is possible that pain could rebound after completion of the therapy session, Spiegel said adding that longer-term pain reduction might require sustained and repeated exposure to varied virtual reality content.

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After inauguration of the Basai railway over bridge (ROB) by CM Manohar Lal Khattar on Saturday, the homebuyers want completion of the northern peripheral road (NPR), better known as Dwarka Expressway, at the earliest. Until NPR is made operational, the purpose of Haryana government of developing 35 sectors (81-115) as future Gurgaon stands defeated.

Homebuyers met Nitin Gadkari, Union minister for road transport and highways and shipping last week seeking his intervention for early completion. The NPR has been taken over by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which comes under Gadkaris ministry.

The ministry has issued appropriate directions to NHAI in this regard. Hope it will become operational soon, said an official in Union urban developement ministry confirming the meeting with homebuyers.

The buyers, whose primary concern is the 18-km Gurgaon portion of the NPR, are hopeful of a positive response from the Union minister.

Our concern is the Gurgaon portion of the expressway. We hope the Centre and the state government would do the needful in making this portion operational at the earliest, said Gaurav Prakash, founder member of Dwarka Expressway Welfare Association.

The 18km-long NPR is considered big ticket project of the Haryana government. The Haryana urban development authority (Huda) had acquired lands along the proposed expressway to develop residential spaces spread across 35 sectors.

Soon after the project was launched in 2009-10, it got mired in litigations. This resulted from the alleged illegal sale of plots to holders of general and special power of attorneys by unauthorised property dealers. Over the last seven years, the Huda claims to have settled most of litigations, but couldnt prevent the project from missing several deadlines. The 1.4km stretch between Kherki Daula and New Palam Vihar is at the heart of the only ongoing legal dispute centering around the project, the Huda said. The next date of hearing has been set in July-end.

Read I Gurgaon: Homebuyers meet Huda administrator to expedite construction of Dwarka expressway

Our meeting with Gadkari was fruitful. We hope it will evoke the desired response. We want the court to deliver the final judgment at the earliest and not delay it anymore. The delay stretches to a decade and we have been bearing the burden of paying the rent for the plots we bought and the EMI on the loans we took, Prakhar Sahay, a homebuyer, said.

Yashpal Yadav, Huda administrator, said, Only 1.4km of the project remains unfinished and we have filed our reply to Punjab and Haryana high court. We hope the court will deliver a final verdict by July end.

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The city residents are unhappy over the potholed roads, which have only gone from bad to worse, in the light of the recent showers.

The internal roads in sectors 21, 22, Sushant Lok, South City and other areas are all riddled with potholes. The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has come under fire from residents over the poor state of roads.

Almost knee-deep potholes have appeared on internal roads in our sector. It is dangerous to drive. Two cars got stuck in the rain two or three days ago. We informed the MCG officials on the miserable condition of the roads. The officials visited the sector and assured that they will fix deep potholes. However, we are still waiting for action, Umed Singh, president, residents welfare association (RWA), Sector 21, said.

Roads in both sectors were to be repaired by the MCG in December, 2016. However, the repair work got delayed and now, with the monsoon drawing near, the residents are worried.

We doubt if the MCG will re-carpet our roads before the monsoon. We even doubt their intent towards that end. Though it carried out repairs on roads in other sectors, our sectors were left alone. We fail to understand why they ar indifferent to our plight. We fear the rains, this year, could wash away whatevers left of our roads, Bhim Singh, president, RWA, Sector 22-B, said.

Residents of localities such as Sushant Lok and South City are also crying foul over the poor state of internal roads.

AK Nagpal, president, RWA, Sushant Lok-1, said, The developer has stopped maintaining internal roads for the last three-four years. This locality is to be transferred to the MCG for proper maintenance and civic services. Over the last few years, weve been crying foul over the broken roads, but the developer, town planning department and the MCG have been unmoved. Now, the rains are only making things worse. Our roads are going from bad to worse and the authorities dont seem to care. We are likely to meet the MCG officials soon.

Read I Potholed roads prevent smooth ride in Gurgaon, MCG, Huda face ire of residents

The residents of South City 2 and Sohna Road have also appealed to the MCG on several occasions to repair roads.

Our internal roads are in pathetic state. We have lodged complaints with every competent forum in this regard. Every road is riddled with potholes and commuting on them is nothing short of dangerous during the rainy season, Neeraj Yadav, president, RWA, South City 2, said, adding that MCG will do the needful after the transfer of the colony.

Dharambir Malik, superintending engineer (SE), MCG said, We will fix potholes in a couple of days. We inspected these areas after receiving complaints from residents.

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In a daylight heist, four to five men in a car looted over Rs 20 lakh from a van in Daruhera on Monday.

The occupants of the van, which belongs to an online retailer, were on their way to Rewari to deposit the cash when they were waylaid by the assailants, who were in a Hyundai i20, near Omaxe mall in Daruhera around 11.30am.

Immediately after the incident, senior police officers reached the spot to investigate the matter.

The victims  the driver and guard of the van  told the police in their complaint that the accused overtook their van and blocked their way near Omaxe mall. They then approached the van and threw chilly powder in their eyes. The assailants then looted Rs 19.23 lakh from the van and also took away the double barrel gun of the security guard.

The police believe that the heist could be the handiwork of criminals from outside the district. Officers from Rewari police also scanned the CCTV footage from Kherki Daula toll plaza to identify the vehicle used by the accused.

Sources said the police also conducted searches in Delhi based on a vehicle registration number provided by eyewitnesses. It was later discovered that the robbers had used a fake number plate, police said.

Deputy superintendent of police Satpal said three to four police teams have been constituted to investigate the heist and nab the accused.

We are working on various clues. The CCTV footage from the area is being scanned and the culprits will be nabbed soon, said deputy superintendent of police, Rewari, Mohammed Jamal.

A week earlier, miscreants had looted around Rs 3 lakh from a trader in Rewari grain marker after throwing chilly powder in his eyes.

On May 26, two youth had snatched Rs 3.5 lakh from a passenger of an autorickshaw on circular road in Rewari at gunpoint. The accused had snatched the money near the Jain school and had escaped from the spot, police said. Rewari police later arrested two locals, including one Deepak alias Deepu, and recovered a motorcycle, a pistol, and live cartridges from his possession.

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Weeks after the gang-rape of a 19-year-old woman and the murder of her infant daughter in Manesar, the chiefs and panchayat members of five villages of Manesar met the Gurgaon police commissioner and demanded the transfer of the area station house officer (SHO).

They alleged that the behaviour of Narendra Yadav, the SHO of the newly opened IMT Manesar police station, towards the locals was ill-mannered and offensive.

The case of the gang-rape of the 19-year-old woman and the murder of the infant was filed at IMT Manesar police station. The police had arrested three accused in the case.

The chiefs of Dhana, Kasan, Bas Kusla and Bas Haria, the villages which fall under the new industrial IMT police station, as well as that of Alihar met police commissioner Sandeep Khirwar last week.

It has only been one and a half months since the new police opened in Sector 7, IMT Manesar. But, within a short span, most of inspectors and sub-inspectors have either been transferred or have requested transfers themselves. What does it say about the SHO? Parveen Dhankar, the chief of Dhana village, said.

Dhankar further alleged that the SHO was responsible for the initial flaw in the Manesar gang-rape investigation.

How can a woman sub-inspector refuse to register a complaint without the SHOs approval? he said, alleging that the SHO pinned the blame on the sub-inspector only to save himself.

The Gurgaon police had suspended sub-inspector Suman Sura for mishandling the Manesar case after an initial inquiry, headed by Manesar ACP Dharamvir Singh, found that she had refused to lodge an FIR.

The chief of Kasan village, Bahadur Singh, alleged that the SHO did not pay attention to the concerns of the villagers and locals, and sometimes interfered in local matters.

The Gurgaon police said it would look into the matter.

They discussed various issues with me and even vouched for the woman sub-inspector who was suspended. However, their support for the sub-inspector and issues against the SHO are based on their personal impressions, Khirwar said.

He added that their grievances would be duly considered.

Dhana village chief also alleged that the SHO had often abused the locals and factory workers.

The labourers who work at the Maruti factory sometimes go to the police station for cleaning the premises when station staff are on leave. The foreman of the factory, which falls in my village, came to me and said that the SHO abused him and his workers, Dhankar said.

SHO Yadav denied these allegations. I have never behaved badly with any worker. Why would a Maruti worker go to a sarpanch (village head)? he said.

Yadav said that was suspended only after an inquiry by a senior officer.

The police commissioner had called a meeting and told me about the matter. I have no ill-feelings towards any locals. The officers will conduct an inquiry into these allegations, Yadav said.
Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro invited his Silver Linings Playbook co-star Anupam Kher for lunch on Fathers Day at his house. Kher, 62, who is currently in New York for the premiere of his international movie The Big Sick, shared his picture with the Hollywood veteran on Twitter and thanked him for the sweet gesture.

When #GodOfActing #RobertDeNiro invites you for lunch on #FathersDay to his house, you cant eat, because your heart is in your mouth, Kher wrote alongside a picture in which he is sitting next to De Niro.

And when #GodOfActing #RobertDeNiro takes a pic where he is doing the same gesture that you are doing, it is time to faint. What an HONOUR. pic.twitter.com/GZzFbhQMUp  Anupam Kher (@AnupamPkher) June 19, 2017

In another post, Kher said, And when #GodOfActing #RobertDeNiro takes a pic where he is doing the same gesture that you are doing, it is time to faint. What an HONOUR.

Kher and De Niro also met last year during the Indian actors visit to the Big Apple.
Kashmir erupts in joy, read the lead story in the Kashmir Reader, in reference to the celebrations in the valley following Pakistans unprecedented ICC Champions Trophy triumph at The Oval on Sunday.

The Pakistan team handed arch-rivals India a 180-run drubbing in Sundays final to win the title for the first time in their history.

Celebrations ensued in the valley following the win, making front page headlines in most major dailies of the region.

Champions Trophy: Kashmir erupts in joy as Pakistan beat India, read one of the front page stories in Greater Kashmir, while Rising Kashmir too gave the story an opening page slot.

READ | Allah has answered our prayers: Pakistani fans jubilant after ICC Champions Trophy win, celebrations in Kashmir

Crackers go off as Pak pulls off stunning win over India, it read.

People took to the streets, hold nocturnal pro-freedom rallies to celebrate Pakistans spectacular performance against India, Kashmir Reader reported.

While Pakistan was still to crush the Indian team by 180 runs, mosques at many places hummed with pro-Pakistan and anti-India slogans. The Pakistan anthem was played at many places as well. In downtown Srinagar, youth fired crackers continuously. When Pakistan was close to defeating India, youth gathered at marketplaces across Kashmir blasting crackers one after the other, the report further stated.

Apart from downtown Srinagar, celebrations were also held at Safa Kadal, Darish Kadal, north and south Kashmir, Hajin and at the Kashmir University campus, the report added.
A group of US lawmakers has backed medical device makers by urging India to reconsider its decision to cap prices of heart stents, raising the issue ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the United States later this week.

In a letter sent to the Indian ambassador to Washington last month, and seen by Reuters, 18 members of Congress said they were troubled by the price cap, warning that it could deter firms from launching new medical products in India.

Modis government has in recent years capped prices of hundreds of life-saving drugs to make them more affordable. And in February, it imposed a 75% price cut for certain heart stents - wire mesh tubes used to treat blocked arteries.

The government justified its action by citing huge unethical markups. But global medical device makers have protested the new cap, with some saying it would force them to sell below cost.

The US lawmakers warned that people would be denied access to the latest medical advances if companies backed away from Indias $5 billion medical-technology market.

The sudden and unprecedented nature of the decision threatens citizens access to the newest and most innovative medical technologies and raises strong concerns about the business environment in India, they said in the May 22 letter, which has not previously been made public.

The Indian embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment.

The US Department of Commerce is likely to raise the issue with Modi during his visit on June 25-26, according to an industry source aware of the plans. Its one of the biggest pain points, the source said.

Be prepared to quit

An aide to Modi said companies were being asked to bring down prices of medical devices or be prepared to quit the country, and a bureaucrat who works closely with the prime ministers office said raising the matter to diplomatic levels would not influence Indias position.

U.S.-based companies such as Boston Scientific Corp and Abbott Laboratories sell heart stents in India, while Johnson & Johnson sells other devices.

Following the February decision, Abbott moved to withdraw one of its stents from India, but its plea was rejected by Modis government.

Boston Scientific - which also has a research base near New Delhi - sought a higher price for one of its stents but a government panel declined the request.

Such decisions, the group of US Congress members wrote, had forced companies to sell leading edge technology in India at a loss. Signatories to the letter included Indiana Republican Jackie Walorski, and Ron Kind, a Wisconsin Democrat. Both are members of the House Ways and Means Committee.

Before the pricing order, for example, Boston Scientific was selling its high-end Synergy stent for about $3,000 in India, well above its $750 cost, according to a company document seen by Reuters. The new cap reduces the price to $450, and the company says it would result in losses of at least $7 million this year.

Indian health activists have lauded the government decision to cap heart stent prices, saying it is in the public interest.

It was found that huge unethical mark-ups are charged at each stage in the supply chain of coronary stents resulting in irrational, restrictive and exorbitant prices in a failed market system, the Indian government said in February.

A month later, Indias federal drug pricing regulator privately asked the health ministry to add at least four more medical devices to a list of essential medicines, opening the way for them to be made subject to price controls.

In their letter, the US lawmakers echoed concerns raised by the medical device industry, saying Indias interventionist policy on pricing would hamper innovation and jeopardise investment.

We are especially worried that comments by government officials signal the intention to double down on this dangerous policy and expand price cuts to other medical devices, they wrote in their letter.
In the light of several gaffes made by its official Twitter handle, a red-faced All India Radio (AIR) has decided to train its staffers in the art of social media postings.

The AIRs handle, which has 1.65 million followers (including the Prime Ministers Office), was among those who trolled actor Priyanka Chopra on her choice of attire while meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin recently. Though officials dubbed it as an inadvertent mistake, the post was viewed as the public broadcasters disapproval of Chopras dress and posture.

More recently, AIRs handle made another blooper while reporting the court proceedings on liquor baron Vijay Mallyas deposition from London. #VijayMallay extradition: #India gets mocked in London court; its an epic failure for #CBI, it tweeted.

A screenshot of All India Radios tweet on Vijay Mallyas extradition case.

Taking note of such slip-ups, AIR has now decided to train its social media staffers, most of whom are contractual employees, in news coverage.

Being young people, these staffers have made some mistakes. They will now be trained in selection of news and framing of sentences, said an official, adding that the social media team has now been placed under the supervision of a senior functionary.

The official, however, refused to say whether any action has been taken against those responsible for the erroneous tweet.

The governments communication arm  the Press Bureau of Information  came under intense criticism in 2015 for posting a photograph that showed Modi observing the Chennai floods from a helicopter. The aerial view of the flooded city, as seen from the chopper window, was obviously photoshopped.

A senior PIB official said as the government was relying heavily on social media outreach, it was necessary to undertake periodic training of the staff for keeping them abreast with technology.

Workshops on photography and video-editing are also held, so that they can tweet with embedded videos and live-stream press conferences, he explained.
It may only be a matter of time before Tamil actor and superstar Rajinikanth joins politics.

After speaking to his fans and hinting about venturing into the political arena last month, the superstar is making the right noises, picking up issues of importance and meeting people from various sections of the society.

For sure Rajinikanth is coming into politics and he will be launching his own political party, Hindu Makkal Katchi president Arjun Sampath said on Monday after a 45-minute meeting with the superstar at his residence.

It is time Rajini sir came into politics and brought Tamil Nadu out of the current mess, the right-wing Hindu body leader said. We have also requested him to join politics, he said.

Sampath also rejected the contention that Rajinikanth had kept himself aloof from politics and never took up issues of public interest, citing the superstars earlier comments on politics and political parties.

Indications from the superstar also point to the fact that he is readying himself for a political role.

On Sunday, the 66-year-old received a delegation of farmers from Tamil Nadu led by its leader P Ayyakannu, the president of National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association. The Kochadaiiyaan star promised to take up their issues with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

When the farmers reminded him of his previous promise of Rs 1 crore for the river linking project, Rajinikanth offered the sum on the spot. They requested him to instead hand over the money to the Prime Minister and urged him to intervene on their behalf and help the farming community that is facing an acute existential crisis.

While the Dravidian parties have been lukewarm to the idea of Rajinikanths entry into politics, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is welcoming him wholeheartedly and is hopeful that the star with a huge fan following would join the party, helping it to make inroads in the state that has been dominated by the DMK and the AIADMK so far.

In fact, BJP leaders such as H Raja and Union minister of state Pon Radhakrishnan have invited him to join the saffron party.

For a party without a charismatic leader, Rajinikanth makes a lot of sense. But even with Rajinikanth, the going might be tough for the BJP in Tamil Nadu for an assortment of reasons, a political science professor at the Madras University said.

A film industry source said Rajinikanth appears to have made up his mind. In all probability, he will formally launch his party on his birthday on December 12.

The Kabali actor, who prefers to stay away from the spotlight, met his last month after a gap of 8 years and made his intention to join politics very clear. If god is willing, I will enter politics tomorrow. If I enter, I will be very truthful and will not entertain people who are in this to make money. I wont work with such people, he told them.

Currently shooting for Kaala, he is said to have advised his fans to exercise restraint as of now and he would act when the time is right.

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Two farmers allegedly committed suicide in separate incidents in Madhya Pradesh during the past 24 hours, official said on Monday, as the BJP government struggled to contain a growing farm crisis in one of Indias foodbowl states.

Officials said one 55-year-old farmer hanged himself in Sehore, the home district of chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while a 35-year-old farmer ended his life in Vidisha on Sunday night.

The latest incidents took the total number of agriculture-related suicides in the state to 15 since the June 6 farmers protests in Mandsaur, demanding loan waivers and better prices for their produce.

Family members said Bansi Lal Meena, who allegedly committed suicide on Monday, had taken loans from a bank and local money lenders. Sehore is barely 40 km from capital Bhopal.

Meenas son Manoj said his father was suffering from tension due to heavy loan burden.

AP Singh, Sehores additional superintendent of police, said they were trying to ascertain the reasons for the suicide.

It was the fifth suicide in the district in the last 12 days, sources said.

In Vidisha, farmer Jeevan Singh Meena committed suicide by hanging himself from a mango tree on Sunday.

According to family members, he was in depression due to financial problems.

Tehsildar Santosh Bitoliya, however, told local media it was not clear whether Meena committed suicide due to financial problems or a family dispute.

The administration is investigating the matter to know why he committed suicide, he said.

In Harda, a 25-year-old farmer identified only by first name Murlidhar attempted suicide by consuming insecticide. He was admitted to a local hospital. He was in an inebriated state when he took the insecticide, said sources.

Experts say the deaths are symptomatic of an agricultural crisis in several states where a crash in produce rates, rampant corruption and red-tape in procurement and aggressive money lenders have left farmers looking down the barrel.

In Madhya Pradesh, for example, a combination of a bountiful crop and a cash crunch post demonetisation left farmers with few options in a region that clocked a farmer suicide every five hours last year.

The death of five farmers in police firing in Mandsaur sparked a political slugfest in the BJP-ruled state with senior politicians such as Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visiting the spot.

Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who relies heavily on support from farmers to win him a fourth term in elections due next year, has promised a dialogue but not committed to a full farm loan waiver.

(With inputs from Ram Parashar from Harda)
American photographer Tanja Hollander travelled the world to meet and photograph all her 626 Facebook friends in their homes.

The 45-year-old wanted to find out whether she really knew all her Facebook friends. She was intrigued whether she had any real communication with the impressive number of people on her friends list.

Hollanders project Are you really my friend? was recently showcased in an exhibition at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art. The multifaceted interactive digital and analogue collection of images, video, sound and data explores what friendship means in the 21st century, which is dominated by virtual interaction on social media.

On New Years Eve of 2010, I found myself sitting at my kitchen table, simultaneously writing a letter in pencil to a friend deployed in Afghanistan and, on Facebook, instant messaging a friend working on a film in Jakarta. I woke up in 2011, thinking a lot about friendship and relationships, and how we communicate with one another, she wrote on her website.

On the one hand, the letter has a tangibility that makes it seem more genuine and real, while on the other hand social networks provide an immediate way to be part of peoples lives all over the world, she added.

Over the next couple of months, while she researched and analysed the internet and her use of Facebook, she made an interesting discovery which sparked the idea behind this project.

What I found were some people I hadnt met in real life; a few people I was not speaking to in real life; ex-lovers with new partners; ex-partners of friends; art dealers, curators and high school friends who I hadnt seen in over 20 years, she said.

This made her wonder whether she was really friends with all these people. The question led her on a journey across 12 countries, 43 states in the United State and more than 400 homes, teaching her valuable lessons along the way.

One of the photos from Hollanders project. (Are you really my friend?/Facebook page)

She travelled to Massachusetts to take this photo. (Are you really my friend?/Facebook page)

This photo was taken in Portland, Maine. (Are you really my friend?/Facebook page)

I have learned about human kindness and compassion. I continue to be surprised by the number of people, especially the real-life total strangers who have opened their homes to me  offering me a place to stay, sharing their lives, their stories, and their families while allowing me to document it all, she wrote.

Although her project celebrates real-life human interaction, she stressed the power of social media cannot be undermined, which she regularly relies on to promote her work.

Facebook isnt a substitute for real relationships, she told The Atlantic, but its a way to start connections.

In an interview with UpWorthy, the artist summed up her conclusion: One thing is for certain. There isnt a difference between online friendships and offline friendships. Its something that weaves in and out of everything we do, from work to friendship  everything, literally. There are some people that I see in person more often than friends that exist only online, but that doesnt mean Im closer to the people I see every day.

Social media is just a different way of communicating.

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The Bharatiya Janata Partys parliamentary board is meeting on Monday noon to take a call on its candidate for the July 17 presidential election.

The BJP has formed a three-member panel to discuss with the Opposition the possibility of a consensus candidate. The partys parliamentary board will take stock of the talks this committee had with opposition leaders.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley and M Venkaiah Naidu have held consultation with allies and the opposition camp. Naidu and Singh have already spoken to Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her residence.

BJP chief Amit Shah met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on Sunday, and Thackeray said his party will take a call only after the name of the candidate is decided.

The Opposition, too, wants the ruling side to propose a name before seeking a consensus on his or her name.

The panel of the Union ministers will brief the parliamentary board about the consultations, a BJP leader said. The parliamentary board can authorise the prime minister or the party president to take a call on the candidate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has, so far, not revealed to BJP leaders any name for the Presidents post.

Multiple sources have told HT that former diplomat Gopalkrishna Gandhi could be the potential opposition candidate, with Left parties pushing for Mahatma Gandhis grandson for the countrys highest post.

On the other hand, several BJP leaders have claimed that the partys choice for the post of the President will be a political person with strong BJP affiliation. This stand could spoil chances of the likes of MS Swaminathan, as suggested by the Shiv Sena, and Metro Man E Sreedharan.

Also a Brahmin-Dalit combination is being discussed for the post of the president and the vice-president. The vice-presidents post falls vacant in August.

Names of external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan and Uttar Pradesh governor Ram Naik are doing the rounds as possible candidate for the Presidents post.

Indias presidential election involves a complex voting pattern involving all parliamentarians and state legislators.

The NDA needs around 20,000 more votes to ensure victory of its candidate and the reach out to the opposition is seen as an exercise to test if there could be a consensus and ensure a greater margin of victory.

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The Modi government is not leaving anything to chance to ensure the success of the third International Yoga Day celebrations on June 21.

The Centre will send its entire council of ministers to various parts of the country to lead the yoga day celebrations. A schedule drawn up by the party also mandated the chief ministers of all NDA-ruled states to participate in yoga events held in their jurisdictions.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will show off his yoga skills with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow, home minister Rajnath Singh and road transport minister Nitin Gadkari will head the events at Himachals Sujanpur Tira and Maharashtras Nagpur respectively. Human resource development minister Prakash Javadekar will preside over the Manipur leg even as railway minister Suresh Prabhu takes the helm at Mumbai. The national capital, for its part, will witness the participation of Union urban development minister M Venkaiah Naidu and external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj at its yoga day event.

It has become a trend for ministers to fan out across the country on such missions ever since the NDA government came to power in 2014. Soon after the yoga day celebrations are done, the entire council of ministers will again tour various parts of the country to mark the 42nd anniversary of the Indira Gandhi-declared Emergency. They will hold public meetings to talk about the excesses indulged by the then Congress government during this period.

The council of ministers is mobilised not only during occasions like yoga day and rakhsha bandhan but also when major policy decisions are taken. For instance, when Modi decided to demonetise high-value currency notes last November, he asked all NDA MPs to fan out across their constituencies over the weekend and drum up public support for the intended crackdown on black money. Similarly, NDA ministers have been asked to spread across the country in the first week of July  soon after the Goods and Services Tax is rolled out  to meet stakeholders and clarify whatever misconceptions they may have.

Its a novel idea to reach out to the people during important festivals and occasions. By sending ministers to every nook and corner of the country to spread the governments message, the Prime Minister wants to change the notion that Delhi is Indias power centre, said a senior BJP leader.

While these events keep ministers on their toes, many privately complain of fatigue and files left pending on their desk. However, nobody goes on record with their woes.

The trend of sending elected representatives across the country began in 2015, when the government completed its first year in power and Modi wanted its achievements highlighted among the people. The occasion was celebrated as Vikas Parv in 2016, with each minister visiting six to seven places.

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In commemoration of the third International Day of Yoga, the UN headquarters in New York was lit up with the word Yoga on Monday. Renowned actor Anupam Kher switched on the illumination lights.

Yoga lights up @UN...Heres a sneak peek of the iconic UN Headquarters building being lit up like never before for International Day of Yoga, Indias Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin tweeted.

Kher also tweeted, Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga.

Indias permanent representative at the UN Syed Akbaruddin with Anupam Kher. (Photo tweeted by Syed Akbaruddin)

It is the second year in a row that the UN headquarters have been specially illuminated on the occasion of International Yoga Day.

Several events have been planned by Indias Permanent Mission to the UN as well as the Indian Consulate to mark the day. The Consulate will hold its flagship Yoga event Recharge at Battery Park in the city on Monday during which several Yoga sessions will be conducted by leading practitioners.

The Permanent Mission of India will organise a Yoga Session with Yoga Masters at the world bodys headquarters on June 20 that will be led by Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati of Parmarth Niketan Ashram, India and Swami Sivadasananda of Sivananda Yoga Retreat, Austria.

Photo of the UN headquarters tweeted by Syed Akbaruddin.

This year, the United Nations will also issue special stamps commemorating Yoga Day. The UN postal agency, UN Postal Administration (UNPA) will issue the new special event sheet to commemorate the day that has been marked annually since 2015. The special sheet consists of stamps with images of the sacred Indian sound Om and various yogic asanas.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi will lead a crowd of over 55,000 people, including students, teachers, yoga practitioners, officials, differently abled, policemen, politicians, ministers and other dignitaries, in Lucknow.

Across the world, several countries are gearing up to celebrate the day.

Indian Peacekeepers in Lebanon.

Egypt has several events lined up across the country, with celebrations expanding to Alexandria and Ismailia in addition to Cairo.

On Sunday, the largest ever yoga event in the Netherlands was held in Hague with the participation of nearly 1,000 people to mark International Day of Yoga.

Hundreds of people take part in a yoga session at the amphitheatre lawns at North Beach on June 18 in Durban, South Africa, ahead of the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2017. (AFP)

In China, scores of events have been lined up to organise the second biggest celebrations of the day in the world after India.

Yoga enthusiasts participate in an event to celebrate 3rd International Day of Yoga in Wenzhou, China on June 18, 2017. (PTI)

Yoga celebrations would be held across 12 cities in eastern China from June 17 to 25.

(With agency inputs)
Authorities have been overwhelmed with calls and messages from panic-stricken parents anxious about the well-being of their children studying in schools in violence-hit Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong in West Bengal after the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha called an indefinite shutdown in the hills over demands for a separate state.

Academics have been partially affected but there is no reason to worry about the safety of thousands of children who stay in hostels in the area, authorities of various schools in the area told the Hindustan Times.

I am getting more than 500 telephone calls every day from anxious parents. We have told them that there is nothing to panic so far. We have provisions for weeks and the students are fully secure, Chetan Tewari, the Kurseong coordinator for Association of Hill Listed ICSE Schools (AHLIS), told the Hindustan Times.

As many as 43 schools are members of AHLIS.

Tewari is also the principal of St Anthonys School that has 900 students of whom more than 350 stay in boarding facilities offered by the school.

The protests for a separate Gorkhaland state have pushed Darjeeling to the brink of collapse, with widespread violence erupting in the picturesque hill station for the first time in almost three decades.

The current agitation started off as protests against an alleged move by the Trinamool Congress government to impose Bengali in schools in the hills where most people speak Nepali. The GJM, which administers the semi-autonomous Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, revived the 110-year-old demand for a separate state after a police raid on the office of its chief Bimal Gurung.

At least three people have died and scores injured in Darjeeling over the past week, as thousands-strong mobs have clashed with police, torched vehicles and ransacked property.

We have at least two months supply. There is nothing to worry. We have some teachers who stay inside the campus. They are engaging the residential students with academics, Father Shajuman, the rector of St Josephs (North Point) School, said. The 129-year school has students from 15 states as well as neighbouring countries.

The schools will close for summer vacation in the last week of June, and for thousands of students leaving the hills for the plains in the midst of a shutdown may not be smooth. However, school authorities were hopeful of a peaceful evacuation.

There was a bandh in 2013 too, but both the agitators and the government helped us in evacuating the children. School buses and vehicles ferrying students were allowed unhindered and safe passage, said Bobby Chachan, director of Bethany School in Kurseong. He has more than 100 students living in the school hostel.

The school boarding is a completely safe place. We have adequate supplies too, said Chachan.

Despite the assurances from school authorities, tension is running high among parents. Need help friends! My relatives son is stranded in a Darjeeling school. The resources are fast diminishing. Can anyone please help to rescue him? a Kolkata resident posted on Facebook on Saturday.

Sanjoy Roy, the father of a Class 11 student in a reputed school in Darjeeling, told HT that authorities have started rationing food. My son was given a roti less at night. I have nothing to complain on that front. But I am worried about his safety. This is his first year in Darjeeling as a student, Roy said.

The hills of north Bengal have traditionally been known for good school education for well over a century. Children from almost every Indian state come to study in the schools in the area along with those from Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Thailand and even Hong Kong.

Some of the sought after schools in this region are St Pauls School (set up in 1864), St Josephs School (1888), Loreto Convent (1846), Goethals Memorial (1907), Mount Hermon (1895), Dr Grahams Homes (1900). Almost all schools have boarding facilities for students.

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The Delhi high court on Monday directed the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to place before the court the decision of its governing body and examination committee to do away with its re-evaluation policy.

A bench of justices Sanjeev Sachdeva and AK Chawla also asked the board to bring its marking schemes for the various class XII subjects.

The courts order came while hearing petitions by students, who recently gave class XII board exams from Delhi and one from Saudi Arabia, challenging the scrapping of the re-evaluation policy of CBSE.

During the hearing, the court referred to a news item claiming that CBSE made mistakes in the totalling of marks which was corrected after verification.

According to the news report, some students who had sought verification of their board exam marks saw a substantial increase of 35-45 marks in their scores.

When there are so many errors in totalling, then how many would there be in evaluation, the bench remarked as it listed all the pleas by the students for further hearing on June 21.

The students have also sought parity with 150 Odisha students whose answer sheets have been ordered by the Orissa high court to be re-evaluated.

However, CBSE told the Delhi high court that it is seeking review of the Orissa high court order and till now has not declared any re-evaluated results in that state.
Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is wanted in India on terror charges, is facing opposition from activists in Lebanon who have launched a campaign to ban his entry after a local cleric invited him to deliver a lecture.

Calling Naiks views extremist and inflammatory, the Lebanese activists say his presence is not conducive to the harmony of a multicultural country like Lebanon, according to The New Arab.

Zakir Naik is an extremist preacher known to spread hate speech that attacks non-Muslims and moderate Muslims alike, and he has been banned from entering many countries, Khaled Merheb, a lawyer and human rights activist, was quoted as saying by the news portal.

Sheikh Hassan Katerji, head of Lebanons little known Salafi group Islamic Federation Society, posted on Facebook from Saudi Arabia that Naiks visit would take place soon, once adequate preparations were made.

Good news! Praise be to Allah, the preacher Zakir Naik has agreed to come to Lebanon when I visited him this morning, he posted on his Facebook on June 11.

Tomorrow I will, God willing, begin contacts with the authorities to guarantee his safe entry and residence, Katerji later posted on Facebook.

A petition was launched soon thereafter via the Avaaz platform, appealing for people to support a ban on Naiks entry to the Mediterranean country. Activists behind the campaign are also threatening legal action.

Naiks visit is dangerous on many levels, said Merheb, the Lebanese lawyer. It encourages extremism, creates tension between different religious communities in Lebanon and may inspire jihadis. His views may be in violation of Lebanese laws regarding sectarian incitement, the lawyer added.

The controversial preacher is accused of spreading hatred by his provocative speeches, funding terrorists and laundering several crores of rupees over the years.

Naik had fled from India on July 1, 2016 after terrorists in neighbouring Bangladesh claimed that they were inspired by his speeches on waging jihad.

He is being probed in India for terror and money laundering charges. He had fled from India immediately after an investigation against him was initiated.

Naik denies all the charges. His present place of stay is unknown and it is believed that he has been shuttling between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, African and Southeast Asian countries.

India has already banned his NGO - Islamic Research Foundation - and taken his TV channel Peace TV off air.
Paraukhan, about 60 km from Kanpur burst into joy as soon as the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) announced on Monday that Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind would be its presidential candidate.

Overjoyed villagers lit the diyas (earthen lamps) with desi ghee and started singing bhajans and kirtans in the homes. They also distributed sweets among the people of the village and in the adjoining areas while BJP activists danced enthusiastically.

Born in Paraukhan, Kovind studied at the BNSD Inter College in Kanpur before graduating in law from the DAV College of Law and then shifted to New Delhi for legal practice.

Kovind who visited his parental house in the village last year after becoming the governor of Bihar declared it as Baratshala (Marriage hall) for the use of villagers who had no place to hold marriages of their daughters and they had to make temporary arrangements.

Read more: Nitish Kumars thumbs up to Kovinds nomination as presidential nominee

Anil Kumar, a nephew of Kovind said that the peoples joy knew no bounds and they were happy that their village would now be in the global map and would become the part of Indian History.

My uncle has a very amicable nature. He meets everyone and helps those who need it, he said.

Another villager, Kamlesh Kumar described Kovind as a very humble person. Though he was a very busy schedule as a responsible BJP leader, he met the villagers with all simplicity and listened to their grievances.

Even when he visited the village after becoming the Bihar Governor he did not miss any occasion to meet us and to ask about our difficulties, Kamlesh said.

Kovind Sahab would definitely set new precedents after getting elected to the coveted post and would prove to be the real Messiah of the weaker sections, he added.
Hafeez Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) said it will launch a campaign in solidarity with the people of Kashmir on July 8, the day when Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed last year.

The drive will continue till July 19 during which big gatherings, conferences and rallies will be held across (Pakistan), said JuD acting chief Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki.

Makki, a brother-in-law of Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been looking after the affairs of JuD in the absence of Saeed, under house arrest in Lahore since January 30 under Pakistans anti-terrorism law.

The JuD operates freely in Pakistan, disguising itself under different names after being banned or cracked upon. Its chief Saeed and his four aides have been detained on the orders of Pakistani government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and the countrys security.
The iconic Grosvenor House hotel in London will soon have a new owner.

Embattled media and real estate tycoon Subrata Roy told the Supreme Court on Monday he has sold off the hotel to pay off its dues to market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). He was present in the court.

Roy is out on bail after his arrest in March, 2014, for failing to comply with a court order to refund 24,000 crore to investors in outlawed bonds.

Sahara advocate Kapil Sibal told the court the hotel in central London was sold off to GH Equity Limited UK a few days ago.

While Sibal did not disclose the exact amount for which the hotel was sold, he said 75 million pounds (about Rs 615 crore) were being brought to India.

Read | SC grants Subrata Roy 10 more days to deposit Rs 709.82 crore in Sahara case

At least two UK-based business websites showed GH Equity Limited UK was incorporated on June 13.

Sahara bought the 494-room Grosvenor House in 2010 for 470 million pounds ($722 million), giving a toehold in global hospitality business to the company that has assets in a Formula One team to TV channels.

Last year, the Sahara group told the top court that it was close to sealing a deal on the hotel with Qatar.

The court extended till July 4 the time for Roy to deposit Rs 709.82 crore, out of Rs 1,500 crore which was to be paid by June 15, with a warning that failure to pay the

remainder may again land him in jail.

If the balance amount is not paid by that date, we will be compelled to send the contemnor (Roy) to the custody and we are sure he shall not give rise to such an occasion, a bench of justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi said while extending its interim order granting bail to Roy till July 5.

Sibal was seeking permission for inward remittance of the sale amount to the SEBI- Sahara account and an extension of time to deposit the money.

The bench, however, rejected Roys plea that he be allowed to sell land, measuring 87.03 acres, in certain villages of Haridwar in Uttarakhand, for Rs 109.75 crore as the

amount was 62 per cent of circle rate prevalent in the area.

The said amount is 62 per cent of the circle rate and, thereby, less than 38 per cent of the circle rate. Permission is sought to sell the property at that rate. As advised at

present, we are not inclined to grant the said permission, the bench said.

(With agency inputs)
Prime Narendra Modi is expected to participate in the third International Yoga Day in Lucknow on June 21 at the sprawling Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan.

A Full Dress Rehearsal seen early morning on June 19, 2017 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh with the 3rd International Yoga Day right around the corner. (Subhankar Chakraborty/HT PHOTO)

Modi will be flanked by governor Ram Naik and chief minister Yogi Adityanath. In attendance will be ministers from the Yogi government, 51,000 people, including students of several schools, paramilitary personnel, government officials and volunteers.

The 80 minute Yoga session is expected to begin at around 6:30am and end at 7:50am. But volunteers have to reach the venue by 4:30am.

Special yoga mats and the placement of water bottles has been planned keeping in mind the massive turnout expected on July 21, 2017. (Subhankar Chakraborty/HT PHOTO)

Through LED TVs installed all across the ground, there will be a live telecast of the yoga session.

Those who will not be able to make it to the Ramabai Ambedkar ground will have an opportunity to perform yoga at any of the 11 parks across the city, selected for the event, where the event will be telecast live through LED TVs.

On Monday, a full dress rehearsal was conducted at the venue with all 51,000 taking part. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath and governor Ram Naik were also present to personally review the rehearsal. The entire machinery of the state government was also present.

The CM issued necessary instructions to officials for the Yoga day event emphasizing on a water bottle to be placed next to every participant.

The event will see the presence of Prime Minister Modi, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Governor Ram Naik. (Subhankar Chakraborty/HT PHOTO)

Special yoga mats have been laid down at the venue which participants will be allowed to take along with them on June 21.

Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place for the event. Ten companies of central paramilitary forces, 25 companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary, two teams of the Anti-terrorist squad and hundreds of police personnel will be deployed in and around the venue to prevent any untoward incident. Till the PM remains at the venue, it will be a no-fly zone.

First observed in 2015, June 21 has been chosen as International Yoga day owing to it being the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. (Subhankar Chakraborty/HT PHOTO)

Modi, however, will arrive at Amausi airport, Lucknow, on June 20, at around 4:30pm. He will also inaugurate the new campus of APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University on June 20 and a new building of the CDRI on first day of his visit.

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RSS leader and patron of its Muslim wing, Indresh Kumar on Monday urged Muslim religious heads to issue fatwas (Islamic legal pronouncement) against those who raise the Pakistani flag on Indian soil.

Kumar, who is the patron of the Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM), an RSS affiliate, also called upon residents of Muslim localities that are dubbed as mini-Pakistan to protest against this categorisation.

Even after 70 years of Independence why are Muslim mohallas (areas) described as mini-Pakistan? If the places are mini-Pakistan then those staying there are Pakistani. Why are there no protests or complaints against this allegation? Why dont Muslim religious leaders issue fatwas against this allegation? he asked.

Speaking at an iftaar hosted by the MRM, which had political leaders, diplomats and religious heads in attendance, Kumar said there should be no place in India where the Pakistani flag is unfurled including in Kashmir.

If the Pakistani flag is unfurled even in Kashmir, should we not from political and religious platforms announce that it is un-Islamic? And those who do so are anti-Islam and enemies of the country, he said.

Read more: RSS-affiliate MRM to keep Pakistan out of its international iftar event on Monday

The MRM, which is leading the campaign against the practice of triple talaq and cow slaughter, has been persuading Muslims to lend support to the RSSs demand for the construction of a Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

It also wants Muslims to opt for a uniform civil code, instead of favouring the Sharia (Islamic Law).

I have asked many intellectual and religious heads why they want to follow the Sharia instead of what is written in the Quran, but no one has an answer. They acknowledge the opposition to triple talaq as interference with Sharia not Quran, Kumar said.

Sharing the stage with Kumar was Manipur governor Najma Heptullah and firebrand BJP MP Shakshi Maharaj who was booked for hurting religious sentiments after he blamed Muslims for the exponential population growth in India.

Asked why he was present at the iftaar, the BJP MP said the MRM is helping propagate message of brotherhood and it should not be seen as an attempt to please a vote bank.

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Jammu and Kashmir is likely to miss the Centres July 1 deadline for rolling out the Goods and Services Tax (GST) across the country.

A special session of the state assembly held on Saturday to discuss implementation of the new tax regime was adjourned indefinitely after the house descended into chaos.

Unlike other states, it would take a legislative amendment to adopt GST in Jammu and Kashmir. Taking this into consideration, speaker Kavinder Gupta concluded that the state would take a call on the matter only after an all-party committee comes up with a report on the tax regime.

While the government claims that the GST would integrate the economy of Jammu and Kashmir with that of mainstream India, significantly benefitting it in the process, Opposition parties and traders fear that its implementation will compromise the fiscal autonomy and special status of the state. Traders have threatened to embark on a massive agitation if the tax regime is forced on them, and the National Conference has advised the government to desist from implementing something that would have irreversible ramifications on the states fiscal autonomy.

The Mehbooba Mufti-led government, for its part, has assured that nobody would be disadvantaged under the new tax regime. We have made changes in federal relations with the government of India. While other states draw powers to tax from the Constitution of India, we get ours from our own Constitution. As those legislative powers have not been compromised, there is no question of compromising fiscal autonomy, finance minister Haseeb Drabu said at a meeting in Srinagar last week.

Drabu insisted that deferring GST implementation will hit trade. In the absence of GST, nobody will want to trade with us. And if they do trade, the consumer will be penalised through double taxation. Let me assure you that no one will be put at a disadvantage under the GST regime. In fact, Jammu and Kashmir will be the first state to carry out GST refund for shoppers on handicrafts, he was quoted as saying in the media.

The finance minister, however, said there were several operational issues and modalities  such as Internet connectivity  that have to be worked out.
The lover of the woman who allegedly chopped off genitals of a godman moved a habeas corpus petition in Kerala high court on Monday saying that she was under house arrest and forced to retract her statement.

The lover, Ayyappadas, said a conspiracy was on to implicate him in the case. He also alleged that many including a few Sangh Parivar outfits wanted to bail out the godamn Theerthapada alias Sreehari (godman) who is in judicial custody now.

He said the woman was lodged in a secret location and forced to retract her statement to save the accused. He claimed that a clear picture will emerge once she was set free.

The 23-year-old woman had initially told the police that she cut off genitals of 52-year-old Sreehari in self-defence when he made sexual advances towards her. She retracted her earlier statement, alleging that one of Sreeharis former aides was behind the attack and she was forced to implicate the godman in the case.
A Gaza Strip in the heart of Kasargod district?

Youngsters in a north Kerala municipality zone have been accused of swapping signboards to rename Thuruthi Street as Gaza Street after the contentious strip of land under Palestinian rule.

Intelligence agencies are not amused, despite claims that the stretch has been renamed in solidarity with those targeted by Israeli authorities. The reason? The street is located near Padanna village, which allegedly witnessed 22 youngsters trooping off to join the Islamic States militant army in recent times.

Municipal authorities said they havent been informed about the street being renamed, despite Kasargod district panchayat president AGC Basheers reported presence at the ceremony. Befathima Ibrahim, chairperson of the civic body, said she would look into the matter and rectify the problem at the earliest.

A Muslim League leader from the district claimed this was no serious matter. One neednt read too much into a prank committed by some youngsters of the area. Unlike Uttar Pradesh, we dont plan to change place names. One has to take it sportingly, he quipped, citing a beach named after Saddam Hussein in Kozhikode and another road bearing Libyan leader Muammar Gadaffis name in Malappuram to drive home his point.

BJP leaders, however, believe this development is part of a systematic plan to alter the character of the communally sensitive district. There is nothing new about this. There have been many other attempts of the kind in Kasargod, said K Sreekanth, the partys district president.

Kasargod has been under the radar of intelligence agencies ever since 22 youngsters disappeared from the area last year. Three of them have already been reported dead, while the rest are allegedly holding fort in Nangarhar province of Afghanistan.

We are keeping an eye on such activities. Of late, many houses in north Kerala have put up residential name plates in Arabic. Some have even been forced into doing this. Such activities will breed discord among various communities in the region, said a senior police officer hailing from the area.
PATNA Facing criticism for poor law and order situation in the state, especially after a girl was gangraped and thrown out of a moving train in Lakhisarai, last week, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar said here on Monday that a police Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been set up to probe the incident.

An SIT has been formed by the district police to probe the incident and one of the accused has been arrested, Kumar said on the sidelines of his Lok Samvad, a weekly programme in which he participates to get a feedback on governance related issues.

Terming the incident a heinous crime, the chief minister said strict instructions had been issued for taking action against the culprits. One person had been arrested and the police were trying to arrest another accused, he added.

However, citing the Lakhisarai incident as an aberration, Kumar gave a thumbs up to the states overall law and order situation. A perception being created by some people that things are not good in Bihar. But thats not the case, he said.

Bihar is placed at the 22nd position in the rate of crime as per National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data. Our performance on crime control and investigation of crime fronts is good, he said.

Kumar said crime took place everywhere but a different perception was created about Bihar. But the conviction rate is very high in the state, he said.

After the Lakhisarai incident, Union minister of state for rural development Ram Kripal Yadav had said that the situation in Bihar was deteriorating rapidly, with criminals moving around without any fear of the law-enforcing authorities.

Public order is nowhere to be found in the state. Criminals are no more afraid of the government or the police. Every other day, serious incidents are witnessed in the state and the culprits are fearless as if they know they will never get caught, Yadav told a news agency.

Expressing similar sentiments, former president of Delhi Mahila Congress and ex-chairperson of Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) Barkha Shukla Singh said that such incidents had turned very common in Bihar and the state government should pay attention to them.

As per the data available from January 2017 to April 2017 (four months), Bihar witnessed 368 cases of rape during the period against 1008 reported in 2016 and 1041 in 2015.

The state recorded 67,819 cases of cognizable crime in first four months of 2017 against 1,89,681 in 2016 and 1,95,397 in 2015. Again, 2,838 cases of kidnapping, including kidnapping for marriage, were reported from January to April 2017. The figure stood at 7,324 in 2016 and 7,127 in 2015.

In the first four months of this year, three incidents of bank dacoity were registered as against eight reported in 2016 and nine in 2015.

Kumar said that there was no let up on the issue of law and order. There is regular monitoring at the DGP level. We get reports every day. After prohibition, the crime rate has come down further, he claimed, adding, any laxity on the part of officials would not be taken lightly.

ACTION Terms the incident as a heinous crime, says SIT has been formed by the district police to probe the incident and one of the accused has been arrested

QUOTE

Bihar is placed at the 22nd position in the rate of crime as per National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data. Our performance on crime control and investigation of crime fronts is good.

 NITISH KUMAR, chief minister

BLURB

Kumar said crime took place everywhere but a different perception was created about Bihar. But the conviction rate very high in the state, he added.

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Farmers in Madhya Pradesh will do shavasana (a corpse pose) exactly when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leading the nation in International Yoga Day programme across the country on June 21.

The farmers under the banner of Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Sangh headed by Shivkumar Sharma Kakkaji will lodge their protest through practice of this yoga posture as their demands for loan waiver and better prices for the agriculture produce are yet to be met. They have also been demanding action against administrative and police officials responsible for the firing by police in Mandsaur on June 6 which left five farmers dead and several injured.

We will practise shavasana as we have been rendered as shava (corpse) by the Prime Minister Narendra Modis policies. Hence, we want to send out a message to him about our present status, said Shivkumar Sharma talking to the Hindustan Times.

Sharma who formed his organisation after he was expelled from RSS backed Bharatiya Kisan Sangh which he headed in Madhya Pradesh till a few years back said the farmers would gather at squares in cities and towns and would perform shavasana. We have no other posture than this to perform on Yoga day given our miserable conditions, said Sharma.

The farmers in the state staged a chakka jam for three hours on national highways on June 16. They have resolved to continue their agitation till their demands are met.

However, Madhya Pradesh Patidar Samaj which lost at least four of its members in the police firing and another member in police lathi charge dont seem to be much enthusiastic about the protest programme on June 21.

Talking to the Hindustan Times over phone MP Patidar Samaj president Mahendra Patidar said he didnt think farmers had time to take part in such a protest. The farmers are engaged with Kharif crop related agriculture activities these days and they are eagerly waiting for rains. Any protest programme on the organisation part will be decided only after the sowing for kharif crop is over.

Talking to the Hindustan Times state BJP spokesperson Rajneesh Agrawal said the farmers organisations must understand that the state government in general and chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in particular were sensitive to their needs as the government had taken a number of measures to make agriculture a profitable proposition.

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Sita Sahu will be Patnas first woman chief councillor, also referred to as mayor in common parlance.

Sahu, a councillor from ward number 58 of Patna City area, defeated Rajni Rai by three votes in a close contest in Patna here on Monday. She polled 38 votes in the 75-member Patna Municipal Corporation. Rai, who was elected from ward number 22C of Digha locality, secured 35 votes. Two votes were declared invalid.

The PMC elections were held on June 4 and the post of chief councillor this time was reserved for woman.

NDA-supported Vinay Kumar Pappu , councillor from ward number 28, was elected deputy mayor.

The chief councillors election was seen as a proxy match between the ruling Grand Alliance (GA) in Bihar and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), as the two alliances had pitched their support behind them. Municipal elections in Bihar are not held on party lines.

Rai, an activist of the JD(U), had the backing of GA. The NDA had supported Sahu, who was associated with the BJP for a long time.

The rivals had indulged in hectic lobbying and dinner diplomacy to win the support of the councillors.

If sources in the PMC were to be believed, Rai, to keep her flock together before the crucial poll, had sent her group of councillors to Kolkata. Sahu also arranged a junket visit to Deoghar and adjacent places for the councillors supporting her.

Elaborate security arrangements were made at the election venue and only the elected ward councillors were allowed inside to vote.

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A youth from Kerala who allegedly joined the Islamic State has been killed in Afghanistan, said a message received by an activist in Padanna in north Kerala on Monday. It was reportedly sent by another youth who was among 21 people who disappeared from the state in June 2016.

Ashfaq Majeed, one of those 21 people, sent a message on Telegram app to BC Rehman, an activist and author in Padanna in north Kerala on Monday informing him that Shajeer Mangalaserry (32) had been killed in an attack in Afghanistan. The message also carried the photo of the slain youth.

Shajeer has become shaheed and Allah knows the best, said the message in Malayalam. If the information is true, he is the fourth among that group of 21 people to be killed in Afghanistan. Earlier relatives received information in similar manner about the death of three others, Hafisudddn, Mursheed Muhamed and Bestin Vincent alias Yahya, all in 25-30 age group. The earlier messages were also sent by Ashfaq.

Earlier there were reports that Shajeer was killed when the United Sates dropped the Mother of all Bombs on April 13 in Afghanistan. It is not immediately known whether he succumbed to injuries received in the US bombing or was killed in a fresh offensive.

A product of the National Institute of Technology, Kozhikode he is suspected to have been drawn into jihadi politics when he was working in the UAE. The son of a driver of the state public transport department, Shajeer was a studious student during his school and college days.

Most of the relatives of the missing youth have disowned them for bringing disrepute to the state and the community. Initially some of them sent messages through Telegram asking them to come back but now they said they lost all hopes.

Ashfaq Majeed, one of the 21 people who went missing, sent a message on Telegram app to BC Rehman, an activist and author in Padanna in north Kerala on Monday informing him that Shajeer Mangalaserry (32) had been killed. Shajeer has become shaheed and Allah knows the best, said the message in Malayalam, along with what is said to be a picture of the youth.

The group of 21 people who simply dropped off the radar sent shockwaves across the country. Most of them were well educated and hailed from respectable upper middle class families. Among them two men and three women are converts. Intelligences agencies had later traced their location to Afghanistan.

Later Kerala police had arrested two persons from Mumbai - Arshid Qureshi and Rizwan Khan - who allegedly played a key role in recruiting them to the IS and later sending them abroad.

Qureshi, an associate of controversial preacher Zaka Naik, was held in connection with the disappearance of Merin alias Mariyam, a resident of Kochi. Merins brother had filed a police complaint saying Qureshi had tried to convert him also during a meeting in Mumbai last year.

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Hours after the BJP announced Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its Presidential candidate, Gopalkrishna Gandhi  seen as the Lefts choice for the top post seemed to take himself out of contention.

While the Opposition mounted an attack on the ruling BJP, accusing it of not consulting them before nominating Kovind, Gopalkrishna Gandhi thanked all those who wanted to see me contest the election and perchance to win it. Talking to Hindustan Times, he said that his supporters trust had been no less fulfilling than a realisation of their wish would have been.

The Opposition will meet on June 22, a day before Kovind files his nomination to the Lok Sabha secretary general, to decide the next course of action.

Congress does not want to comment on NDAs candidate. We want to take a unanimous decision with other opposition parties. The final call will be taken on June 22, leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, said.

Although the Opposition claimed that the BJP unilaterally took a call on Kovinds candidature, Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu maintained that the Bihar governor was nominated after keeping in mind the suggestions of some Opposition parties.

Naidu indicated that the BJP had opted for a person with a clean image, who belonged to a weaker section of the country.

Azad, however, said the atrocities on Dalits in Saharanpur and other areas are a clear example that minorities, backwards and Dalits were not priorities for the BJP.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee suggested that foreign minister Sushma Swaraj or BJP patriarch LK Advani could have been a better Presidential candidate. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJPs Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him, she said and added that in order to support someone, we must know the person.

However, there are signs that all the opposition parties might not share the same views when it comes to Kovinds nomination. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati said she cant take a negative stand on a dalit candidate. Our stand will be positive provided the opposition does not field any Dalit for the top post, she said.

The Left, which has been backing Gopalkrishna Gandhis candidature, was in no mood to quit without a fight. There will be a contest, Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury told Hindustan Times.

On his part, Gopalkrishna Gandhi said he hoped for the best thing to happen for India.

May the one chosen by destiny to occupy the onerous office this year bring to it something of Rajen babus sagacity, Dr Radhakrishnans wisdom and Zakir sahibs nobility, and a large measure of the alert independent-mindedness of President R Narayanan, he said.

When asked if he is opting out of the contest, Gandhi replied, I had never entered a contest as no name whether mine or anyone elses had been decided upon.

Former Lok Sabha speaker Meira Kumar is also seen as a possible Opposition Presidential candidate.

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PATNA: Police in Bihars Begusarai district on Monday moved the court for speedy trial against administrators of a private school, charged with sending home two minor girls semi-naked as their parents could not pay the uniform fee.

The police had on Friday arrested director Bhavna Devi and principal Mukesh Kumar of BR Education Academy, a middle school (till Class 8) at Sikraula village in Koriya panchayat of Begusarai, 124 kms east of state capital Patna.

Begusarai superintendent of police Ranjit Kumar Mishra said the accused had on Friday forced the girls to take off their uniform as they had not paid its requisite fee.

The school had some two months back distributed uniform among its students for which it had charged Rs 750. The girls had not paid the uniform fee, said Mishra.

On Friday, when father of one the victims came to pick up his daughter after the dispersal of school, the accused asked him to pay the uniform fee. He reportedly sought some time for paying the money, after which the accused forced the girls to strip and return home semi-naked.

The SP said while the residence of one of the girls was a kilometre away from school, the other resided some 3 kms away and had to walk the distance in semi-naked condition.

We arrested the accused within two hours of the complaint being lodged at the Mufassil police station. We are filing the chargesheet today (Monday) and will request the court for a speedy trial against the accused, Mishra added.

The school administration has denied the charge and said that it was a conspiracy to malign the institution.

Bihar education minister Ashok Choudhary, who ordered an inquiry into the incident, termed it as insensitive. He said stern action would be taken against the school and the culprits.

Meanwhile, woman activist Abha Singh said, the horrendous incident was a blot on Indias image.

I think this incident of stripping naked two girls and parading them in Begusarai is not only a blot on India, but it destroys the image of Indians across the world, especially when we are talking of initiatives like Beti Bacho, Beti Padhao, she told ANI in Mumbai.

Singh called on the state government to take stern action against the school administration and book them under Section 9 (u) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012.

Where would the girl have education if the father could not pay the fees? They could have called the father to school or there are so many welfare schemes. They could have written to the state government for some scholarship, rather than doing that the school authority stripped them, she said.

(With ANI inputs from Mumbai)
Prime Minister Narendra Modis nomination of Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as presidential candidate is almost akin to the UPAs choice of Pratibha Patil as the head of state in 2007 when it comes to springing, well, a surprise.

The situations were, of course, different and the UPAs trouble was convincing its partners, especially the Left about a consensus candidate before Congress President Sonia Gandhi announced Patils name on June 14, 2007. Patil was then the governor of Rajasthan.

Sonia Gandhis brief statement was read out in the presence of then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, DMK chief M Karunanidhi, Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar, Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad, and Left leaders Prakash Karat, Sitaram Yechury, A.B. Bardhan, D Raja and Abani Roy.

Unlike this time, the surprise announcement of Patil came after a slew of tense meetings where the Congress and its allies could not come up with a consensus candidate. On June 14, Karat, Bardhan and D Raja met Karunanidhi and said the Left parties were unwilling to accept the candidature of Shivraj Patil or Karan Singh.

These names came up after the Lefts choice Pranab Mukherjees name was turned down by the Congress on the account that he was indispensible in running the government and couldnt be spared for the post of President. Soon after this, Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh called the Left leaders for a meeting.

Read more: Who is Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modis surprise pick for the next president of India

At this meeting, the Left leaders again said what they conveyed to Karunanidhi and also suggested Congress should consider names of Arjun Singh and Motilal Vora. But both of them were ruled out by their party on the ground of ill-health. As the meeting progressed CPI D Raja suggested since they cannot agree on a mans name they should consider a womans name.

Sonia Gandhi heard this and asked me what I was saying. I said it would be ideal to come up with a woman candidate, recalls D Raja. Manmohan Singh too agreed with the idea and soon suggested Patils name.

But most leaders in the room did not connect with the name. It was the CPI general secretary A B Bardhan, who hails from Nagpur, who immediately said it was an apt choice.

Bardhan also spoke to Patil. Bardhan the proceeded to give a detailed presentation of Patils political career and also recalled her husband (Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat) had served as Mayor of Amravati, he said.

Patil was an MLA in Maharashtra Assembly between 1962 and 1985. She was also the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly between 1979 and 1980 before becoming a member of the Rajya Sabha in 1985. In 1991 she became a Lok Sabha member.

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Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi said her office has sought a CBI probe into the alleged large-scale corruption in the admission of students to postgraduate courses by private medical colleges in the Union Territory.

The CBI has been requested to investigate acts of omission and commission urgently and step in at the earlier to save evidence from being either diluted or destroyed. Some vital papers so far have already been forwarded to them. More will follow, Bedi said in a statement issued here late on Monday evening.

She said her office had formally responded to the queries and requested the CBI to immediately take up the whole case of alleged fraud, cheating and breach of trust and also possible large-scale corruption which may have happened in the admission of students to PG courses by private medical colleges in Puducherry and also in the conduct of the Centralised Admission Committee (CENTAC).

She said the Madras High Court in an interim order recently had already directed the private medical colleges to admit students in the seats belonging to government quota. The petition was filed by VBR Menon,a student.

But it appears they have already sold those seats away much before even the closure of counselling. Hence colleges are in serious contempt, alleged sources close to the governor.

Bedi, who assumed office in May last year, has been involved in tussles with the Congress government on a host of issues. She has been asserting that being the administrator of the UT, she has the powers over administrative matters.

Chief Minister V Narayanasamy had on June 16 in the Assembly taken strong exception to Bedi making field visits, calling meetings of officials at the Raj Nivas, holding meetings through video conferencing and sending communications through social media.

The Assembly had also passed a resolution seeking grant of full administrative powers to the elected government here after the CM led a frontal attack on Bedis style of functioning.

(With PTI inputs)

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The Prime Ministers surprise nominee for President, Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind, spent most of his political career away from the spotlight but shed his soft-spoken manners when he had to fight for the right of Dalits and weaker communities.

An advocate with a decade-and-half of experience in the high courts and the Supreme Court, Kovind first gained popularity in 1997 when he joined the movement of SC/ST employees against certain orders of the central government and got them annulled.

In his first public meeting after taking over as governor, Kovind exhorted the Dalits and weaker sections to understand the power of two important constitutional rights  right to education and right to vote  which could change their fortune. The constitution has given two rights. The Dalits suffer across the nation because they could not appreciate the importance of the two, he added.

When Kovind took over as the 36th governor of Bihar in 2015, he was seen as a BJP man whose appointment wasnt welcomed by the Nitish Kumar government that had just stormed to power. But over the two years, the 71-year-old has got along well with the chief minister despite being seen as a BJP man.

He used his own legal acumen while giving assent to the new prohibition law brought by the Nitish government despite opposition from within the BJP and some lawyers.

On the other hand, he firmly returned the lokayukta amendment bill to Bihar assembly for reconsideration. His plea was that there should be a definite time frame for the selection of lokayukta and its members should be completed. It was later complied with and Bihar now has a lokayukta.

Known for staying away from controversies but remaining firm on important issues, Kovind has been engaged in improving Bihars beleaguered higher education system by holding regular meetings with vice chancellors. Earlier, he also served as member of board of management of Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow. The vexed issue of appointment of VCs in Bihar  a dispute that even reached the SC in the past  also went off smoothly during his tenure.

Born on October 1, 1945 at Kanpur Dehat in Uttar Pradesh, he graduated from Kanpur University and also acquired his law degree from there. He held various important positions, such as central government advocate in the Delhi high court and standing counsel in the Supreme Court. He practiced in the SC and HC for 16 years. He also represented India at the United Nations and addressed the general assembly in October 2002.

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Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional president and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday.

His remarks came hours after the BJP Parliamentary Board declared Bihar Governor Kovind as the NDAs choice for President.

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised, the prime minister tweeted.

He said with an illustrious background in the legal arena, Kovinds knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.

Modi pointed out that Kovind, a farmers son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor & marginalised, he said in another tweet.

The 71-one-year-old Kovind is a Dalit leader from Kanpur. He was elected twice to the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh. Kovind has also practised as a Supreme Court lawyer.
The driver of a Sikkim-bound truck, was severely injured when suspected Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters set the vehicle on fire on NH 10 at Setijora, about 37 km from Kalimpong on Monday afternoon as the agitation for a separate state of Gorkhaland continued its freefall into violence.

Aniket Chhetri was taking bricks from Kalimpong to Sikkim. The vehicle was severely damaged and Chhetri sustained more than 70% burn injury, said Ajit Yadav, superintendent of police, Kalimpong.

Read more: Two Sikkim Trinamool Congress leaders resign in support of Gorkhaland

Chhetri was taken to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital in Siliguri. Some local people alleged that the attackers hurled petrol bombs at the truck. Four others, who were travelling in the truck, were also injured.

Another truck was set on fire at Kalijora, about 30 km from Siliguri. However, there was no report of any injuries to anyone. At Kalimpong, GJM supporters damaged a police vehicle during the day and an abandoned police outpost was set on fire around midnight on Sunday in the Goiribus area of the district.

GJM supporters staged rallies at Mirik, Kalimppong and Darjeeling and burnt effigies of Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee in Darjeeling and Mirik.

Internet services which went down on Saturday midnight continue to be on the blink.

Meanwhile, in a new political development, Harka Bahadur Chhetri, leader of the Jan Andolan Party (JAP) said he would attend the all-party meeting on the Gorkhaland issue on Tuesday. The JAP stayed away from a similar meeting held before the fresh agitations started.

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President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission Swami Atmasthanandaji Maharaj, under whose stewardship major relief operations were conducted in various parts of India, Nepal and Bangladesh during natural calamities, died at a city hospital on Sunday after a prolonged illness.

The 98-year-old monk, who had spent several years at Shyamla Tal in the Himalayas, had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments since February 2015.

A statement released by the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, said, Despite the best medical attention, his condition deteriorated over the last few days and he passed away around 5.30 pm today (Sunday) at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital.

The cremation will take place at Belur Math tomorrow at about 9.30 pm and the gates of Belur Math would remain open tonight and tomorrow till the last rites were completed, it stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had met the ailing Swami on April 17 last year, condoled the seers death, terming it as a personal loss.

As a young boy, Modi had visited the Belur Math to join the Order, but his request was turned down and he was told that his calling was elsewhere.

Later, he got spiritual guidance from Swami Atmasthananda in Rajkot, Gujarat and considered him as his guru.

West Bengal governor Keshari Nath Tripathi and chief minister Mamata Banerjee also condoled the demise of the monk.

Banerjee had paid a visit to the ailing monk earlier in the afternoon.

Atmasthanandaji, born in May 10, 1919, at Sabajpur, near Dhaka, now in Bangladesh, had received mantra diksha from Swami Vijnananandaji Maharaj (a monastic disciple of Ramakrishna) in 1938 and joined the Ramakrishna Order at Belur Math in January, 1941 at the age of 22.

In 1945, Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj, the sixth president of the Order, gave him brahmacharya vows, and in 1949, sanyasa vows and the name Swami Atmasthananda.

After serving the Order at Belur Math and the branches at Deoghar (Vidyapith) and Mayavati (Advaita Ashrama), Atmasthanandaji got the opportunity to serve Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj, the then president of the Order, for a long time.

He spent several years in the company of Virajanandaji Maharaj at the Shyamla Tal in the Himalayas. In 1952, he was posted to Ranchi TB Sanatorium branch as an assistant secretary.

In 1958, he was sent to Rangoon (Yangon) in Burma (now Myanmar) Sevashrama as its secretary.

When military rulers took over the Rangoon Sevashrama, he returned to India in 1965 and was posted at the Rajkot branch as its head in 1966.

He was elected a trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and member of the governing body of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1973.

In 1975, he was appointed an assistant general secretary of the twin organisations. Under his leadership as relief secretary, the math and mission conducted massive relief and rehabilitation operations in various parts of India, Nepal and Bangladesh during natural calamities.

He became the general secretary of the math and mission in 1992 and remained at that post for five years till 1997 when he became a vice-president of the Order.

He was elected president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission in December 2007.

Swami Atmasthanandaji had travelled extensively all over the country and abroad and visited several branches of the Order and some unaffiliated centres spreading the messages of Ramakrishna, Sarada Devi, Swami Vivekananda and Vedanta, besides giving mantra diksha to disciples.

He was one of the key persons to organise the Pallimangal (integrated rural development) activities in Kamarpukur and Jayrambati, a youth training centre at Saradapitha (Belur) and many other social service programmes.

Governor Tripathi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Atmasthanandajis numerous devotees whose loss cannot be compensated.

May his soul rest in peace in his heavenly abode, Tripathi said in a statement released by the Raj Bhawan tonight.

Banerjee described his passing away as an irreparable loss to the mankind.

Saddened that Rev. Swami Atmasthanandaji, President, Ramakrishna Math & Mission passed away today at Seva Pratishthan #Kolkata, she tweeted.

I paid my last visit to him this afternoon. A life of outstanding social & religious service. This is an irreparable loss to mankind, the chief minister said.
The Left parties on Monday said the opposition will put up its own candidate against the Bharatiya Janata Partys nominee Bihar governor and Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind, unimpressed by the ruling dispensations choice for Indias next president.

There will be a contest, Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury told the Hindustan Times after BJP president Amit Shah announced Kovind as the NDAs presidential candidate.

Yechury said the opposition parties will call a meeting on June 22, a day before Kovind is due to file his nomination papers, to decide their candidate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Congress president Sonia Gandhi and former PM Manmohan Singh and sought their support for Kovind. The Congress president told him she will talk to her party leaders before taking any decision.

Kovinds candidature is likely to help the BJP reach out to the Dalits, who make up more than 15% of Indias population and are electorally significant in many big states.

The Communist Party of India has also demanded that the opposition should put up a candidate against Kovind.

The opposition parties had formed a 10-member panel to shortlist its candidate for the presidential poll. The panel members waited till the government completed its talks with different parties before taking the final call.

They, however, have a near impossible task to win the contest as it is short of 1.5 lakh votes from the majority mark.

The decision comes amid protracted negotiations in the opposition camp to zero in on a consensus candidate  seen as an opportunity to rally parties for a grand anti-BJP coalition before the 2019 general elections.

The BJP is 100,000 votes short of a majority in the presidential electoral college, which means it will not only have to convince allies but also rope in fence-sitters such as the AIADMK of Tamil Nadu, Naveen Patnaiks Biju Janata Dal from Odisha and Telanganas ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi to put its nominee in the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

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A clutch of regional parties from southern India backed Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind for Indias next President on Monday as the Congress expressed its disappointment at not being consulted before the Dalit leaders name was finalised.

Minutes after the 71-year-old former Rajya Sabha MPs candidature was announced by BJP chief Amit Shah, the Telangana Rashtra Samiti supported Kovind. The party has 11 seats in the Lok Sabha, three in the Rajya Sabha and 63 in the state assembly.

Honble PM @narendramodi Ji has telephoned Honble CM KCR seeking support for Sri Ramnath Kovind Ji as President. CM has agreed to support, chief minister K Chandrasekhar Raos office tweeted.

The AIADMK (Amma) that is ruling Tamil Nadu was also likely to vote for Kovind, if presidential elections are held on July 17.

Even Amma would have supported the BJP and so will we, said Lok Sabha deputy speaker M Thambidurai, who is with chief minister Edapaddi Palaniswamis faction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the Tamil Nadu CM, who commands the support of 36 MPs in the Lok Sabha, 10 in the Rajya Sabha and 122 MLAs in the assembly. Another faction of the AIADMK  AIADMK (Puratchi Thalaivi Amma)  also indicated it will also back the BJPs choice.

The Telugu Desam Party of Andhra Pradesh  an ally of the NDA  also pledged its support for the Dalit leader. The party has 16 MPs in the Lok Sabha, six in the Rajya Sabha and 102 MLAs in the assembly.

But the principal opposition party, the Congress, appeared displeased with the governments announcement and said it would take a final decision at a scheduled meeting on June 22. The Congress has been trying to rally opposition parties for a consensus candidate.

We expected that to evolve consensus, the government will discuss a few candidatesthe government only informed us about the decision once it was madewe didnt expect this, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said. Congress wont comment on the merit or demerit of candidates.

The BJP is well placed to put its nominee in Rashtrapati Bhavan and is around 100,000 votes short of a majority in the electoral college, meaning it will not only have to retain the support of its allies but also rope in fence-sitters such as AIADMK, Biju Janata Dal and TRS.
Two top Trinamool Congress leaders of Sikkim quit the party on Monday to protest alleged police atrocities on protesters leading a statehood agitation in West Bengals hill districts, including the popular tourist destination of Darjeeling.

Trinamools Sikkim unit president PT Lucksom, also a former deputy chief minister, and state general secretary Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha sent their resignations to party Rajya Sabha MP Derek O Brien and Lok Sabha MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay, sources said.

Their resignation letters were sent via the instant messaging app WhatsApp.

Four protesters have been killed, three of them allegedly in police firing, since unrest begun on June 8 over an alleged attempt to impose Bengali in schools of the hills. Several security personnel have also been injured in clashes with protesters.

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), which rules the semi-autonomous Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, later revived the 110-year-old demand for a separate state.

Sikkim, a small state bordering Nepal and Bhutan, has a sizeable Nepali-speaking population ethnically related to Darjeelings majority community.

On June 17, three innocent persons were killed. Darjeeling is not a place where you can kill people. We fully support the demand for Gorkhaland, Lepcha said in his resignation letter.

The Sikkim unit of Trinamool Congress has been watching the situation in north Bengal hills since June 8. What the Bengal government has done there is unwarranted, he told HT.

The resignations could hurt Bengals Trinamool government which is battling to contain growing anger in the hills, where a shutdown completed five days on Monday.

On Sunday, one of its leaders in Darjeeling, Gaulan Lepcha, resigned from the party in support of a separate state. Lepcha is a three-time former MLA of Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF), which had spearheaded a violent statehood movement in the eighties.

NK Kumai, former chairman of the Kalimpong municipality, also resigned from the Trinamool during the weekend.

Trinamools Darjeeling president and state tourism minister Gautam Deb alleged that a number of their supporters were compelled to leave the hills and take refuge in Siliguri after GJM supporters threatened them.

On Monday, the hills were relatively calm with GJM supporters staging rallies at Mirik, Kalimppong and Darjeeling.

Effigies of chief minister Mamata Banerjee were burned in Darjeeling and Mirik.

In 1996, two CPM MPs had also resigned from the party, disillusioned with the party not supporting the Gorkhaland issue.

Dawa Lama and RB Rai had lured most of the CPM members out of the party to form the Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists (CPRM) in the hills.

CPRM representatives were present at an all-party meeting in Darjeeling on June 13 that adopted a resolution to fight for Gorkhaland.

Rai was the Lok Sabha MP from Darjeeling (1996-98). Lama was a member of Rajya Sabha.

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West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday appealed to people in the northern West Bengal hills to maintain peace instead of playing with fire amid the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM)-called indefinite shutdown.

I would like to appeal to everyone in the mountains to kindly maintain peace. Solution can be reached through meetings and dialogues only when peace is maintained, she said before leaving for the Netherlands.

I dont differentiate between the hill people and others. We all work everywhere in the state. Burning down things is not the right thing to do. Instead of playing with fire, peace should be safeguarded, Banerjee said.

Banerjee will address the Public Service Day of the UN on June 22 at The Hague in the Netherlands.
The NDAs presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind on Monday expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the July 17 election.

I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings, Kovind told the media on his arrival from Patna.

Asked whether Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar governor said the Janata Dal-United leader had made a courtesy call.

As I am the governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination.

Asked if the opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on an ordinary citizen.

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, JP Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination: It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty.

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had rich culture, rich traditions and lot of heritage.
More help poured in for the an orphan brother-sister duo in Kota who had found 96,500 in demonetised bank notes months after the deadline to exchange such notes was over.

Several social organizations together handed over a cheque of 61,000 to Suraj Banjara (17) and his sister Saloni (9) at a small function here on Saturday.

This comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a letter to the siblings releasing a financial assistance of Rs 50000. The PM also got the duo insured under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Beema Yojana (PMJJBY) and paid in advance the premium for the schemes for five years.

The social organizations, Bhamashah Mandi Grain Merchants Association, Hadauti Kota Stone Association and others, collected Rs 61,000 on an appeal made by Kota MP Om Birla.

Speaking on the occasion, the MP said funds for the education of the two children and wedding when they attain adulthood will be arranged through public contribution.

Suraj said that he was delighted to have got the money, which he will use for the good of his younger sister.

Chairman of the child welfare committee, Kota, Harish Gurubakshani, who had earlier helped the children write an open letter to the PM, was also present. Suraj and Saloni, now living at Madhu Smriti Sansthan shelter home, had written to the PM on March 24, after Reserve Bank of India expressed helplessness in exchanging such large number of demonetized notes171 notes in denomination of Rs 500 and Rs 1000.

The children had found the money, apparently set aside by their mother, during a search at their house in Sahrawada village in Kota. The house was locked after the siblings were brought to the childrens home four years ago when their mother was murdered. Their father had died earlier.
Villagers are thronging the Banganga river in Bharatpurs Bhusawar hoping to fish out silver coin dating back to the early 1990s.

The silver coins, with a photo of King George, were found near the banks of the river and they are believed to belong to the years between 1904 and 1919.

As news spread, villagers from Malaheda, Hingauta, Khanpur and Bachhren reached the river to collect coins. Nearly 50 coins were collected by the villagers who went to the river with digging instruments.

Bharatpur district collector Narendra Kumar Gupta said officials have been asked to enquire into the matter. Anything which is found underground is a government asset. Legal action will be taken against locals who took the coins from the river, he said.

A coin found by villagers in Bharatpur. (HT Photo)

Ashish Chaudhary of Malakheda village said soil traders were digging near the banks when they found the buried coins.

Dinesh Singh from Salempur Khurd said villagers had been collecting coins from the river for nearly 20 days. Generally, women go early in the morning in search of the coins.

Superintendent engineer of irrigation department Phool Singh Meena said that the Banganga flowed from Jaipur and merged with the Yamuna in Agra. The river depends on the monsoon for water and had started drying up from 1996 due to lack of rains.
Citing unwarranted competition and a high number of surprise inspections, owners of 21 ultrasound centre in Lucknow have submitted an application to the appellate district authority, seeking permission to surrender licence and shut operations.

The city has 440 ultrasound centres.

There has been a considerable rise in the number of centres that have come up over the past two years. This has given rise to unwarranted competition. The number of surprise inspections too has gone up, which is another issue for us, said an ultrasound centre owner, who sought permission to close down.

The centres also need to follow stringent rules.

On an average, over 8000 ultrasound tests are performed every day in the state capital. Half of these are for pregnant women. Rules demand that ultrasound centres properly fill up all details of pregnant women, which centre owners say takes a lot of time. The information also has to be shared with the office of the chief medical officer of Lucknow on a fixed day, every month. Failing to do this may invite action.

This year, a dozen centres in the state capital have been raided.

Another game-changer for centre owners is that ultrasound facility at government hospitals has been made free.Due to this, now, many patients prefer visiting government hospitals for the test.

Medicines are already being provided for free at government hospitals, and the registration charge is only 1. In contrast, at any private clinic, the consultancy fee alone is over 250.
Municipal commissioner Udairaj Singh has been summoned by the district consumer court for Lucknow Municipal Corporations failure to keep the city clean.

A resident of Metro City in Nishatganj, former scientist Anand Akhila has sued LMC for its failure to clean silt from nullahs, which has caused water-logging and presence of waste on streets.

He has accused the LMC of taking house tax and user charges but doing nothing for the residents in return. According to him, the lack of accountability for years has resulted in a mess all over the city.

The LMC should either stop charging us or start giving us tax rebate if it fails to discharge its duty to keep Lucknow clean. The city has seen spread of diseases like malaria, chikangunya, dengue, swine flu etc, said Akhila.

Why should the common man suffer despite paying to the corporation for sanitation and maintenance of drainage and sewer. The LMC has to file a reply on July 4, he added.

Additional municipal commissioner PK Srivastava said, Charging house tax doesnt mean that we can be sued under the consumer law. The lawyers of LMC will reply to the case.
With the Uttar Pradesh government contemplating recommendation of a CBI probe, an FIR will soon be lodged in connection with the irregularities in Rs 1,503-crore Gomti riverfront project.

A case will be registered on the basis of the recommendations of the four-member committee headed by state minister for urban development Suresh Khanna.

The Khanna panel was formed to recommend action against those who were indicted by a judicial committee for irregularities and over expenditure of Rs 241 crore.

The judicial committee had indicted former chief secretary Alok Ranjan, the then principal secretary (irrigation) Deepak Singhal and senior engineers associated with the project, for irregularities.

The Khanna committee submitted its 11-page report to chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday and recommended that the state government should lodge an FIR and gives its nod to a CBI probe into the project.

According to sources, the Khanna committee heard the officers indicted for irregularities and concluded that further probe was required to ensure action against the officials concerned.

Though the state government had the option of ordering a probe by the vigilance department, the Khanna committee suggested a CBI probe be ordered for impartial investigation.

Read more: UP government clears Rs 9.5 cr custom duty for Gomti riverfronts musical fountain

The panel has favoured completion of the project with minimum cost to make the riverfront useful for the public. A fresh estimate for minimum expenditure for the installation of STP and completion of the project will be worked out soon.

The CM had constituted a judicial committee to probe into the irregularities in the project when he found that only 60 per cent work had been carried out despite an expenditure of Rs 1,435 crore (95% of project cost).

The three-member committee, headed by retired high court judge AK Singh, submitted its report early in May this year. The members of the committee included IIM professor AK Garg and retired professor, BHU, UK Chaudhary.

In its 80-page inquiry report, the judicial committee had taken exception to the implementation of the project without appropriate environment clearance, over expenditure and poor monitoring.

The then executive engineer, superintending engineer, chief engineer, chairman of monitoring committee, and principal secretary (irrigation) appear to be responsible for gross negligence, the report observed.

The then chief secretary Alok Ranjan led the monitoring committee constituted to oversee the implementation of the project under the previous government.

The committee questioned Ranjans role as the chairman of the monitoring committee.

Keeping in view the size of the project, a high-level monitoring committee was constituted for the purpose (to check the delay) with the then chief secretary (Alok Ranjan) as chairman and comprising the then principal secretary, irrigation, (Deepak Singhal), chief engineer, head of irrigation department and other engineers as members, the judicial committee report said.

The monitoring committee held 23 meetings in two years. But for all these points mentioned in this report, the committees chairman and members are prima facie guilty, the report said.

The committee noted that only the then executive engineer got the sludge auctioned and deposited Rs 19 lakh. It also found irregularities to the tune of about Rs 1 crore in auctioning of sledge.

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Hindustan Times La Finesse fashion show witnessed the confluence of Indian ethnic and western wear.

The best of fashion under a roof presented a mix of sarees, lehangas and wedding gowns displayed by 32 ramp scorching models.

In all, over 150 apparels by four designers were displayed at the event organised to celebrate HT Citys eighth anniversary, at Lucknows Golden Blossoms resort on Saturday.

Designers Samant Chauhan, Richa Mishra, Sadan Pande and Pallavi Madeshia Yadav presented a bouquet of hi-fashion garments. The milky white ramp was decorated with green curtain and plants.

Rajneish Duggall walking the ramp for Sadan Pande (Dheeraj Dhawan/ HT Photo)

The event opened with Nusrat Fateh Alis song Woh Hata Rahi Hai Parda Sarka Ke Chupke chupke as the model entered the stage draped in ghoongat (veil). Samants heavily embroidered ethic garments comprised of lehangas and sarees. The beige colour cotton silk lehanga with detailed gold zari work left the onlookers in awe.

The beat changed to fusion music and as they switched to Indo-Western wears. Male models in sherwani teamed with skirts all in white tone. The female models, in centre parting hair, sported crop top with lehanga and the collar styling were noticeable. The designer used floral dresses on guys. He showcased asymmetrical cuts on royal top cut and capri-length pants for men. Towards the end came the pret line.

Next came, Fab Creation by designer Richa, a doctor by profession and entrepreneur running IIFT Next fashion institute. Her dresses had a striking play of colours. She presented Summer Collection while were in pastel mono tones and light embroidery work. Her dresses were high on flower decorative and were light wear  perfect for this weather. The designer herself was wearing floral print on white base.

Delhi-based-Lucknowite Sadans were more men dominating. He dresses how in single colour simple dresses could be made designer with cuts and stitching even without any embellishments. His men kurta with pleats and blazer with a zip impressed. There skirts, sarees and gowns were high on sheer and were shimmering with mild decoration. In line with the Illuminate theme, cuts of the dresses combined with golden work. The headgear of female models were noticeable.

In the grand finale, Pallavis 60-dress collection The Book Of Opulence drew inspiration from Greek goddess personify luxury, style and wealth. Her colourful flowing dresses which largely comprised of gowns where heavy on work. She created a radiant combination of the sensuously demure with dazzling silhouettes, cascading embroidery and a ravishment of frills and draping. Her dresses had hand crafted flowers, new leather textures, plumetis, sequins and beading.

The colour tone she used included cyan, lime green, honeysuckle, imperial purple, rosewood, old gold, iris and more. The choreography during the showcase was noticeable. The designer walked the ramp with her showstopper daughter Zuri.

Soon it was time for celebration and what better way to do it with opening the bottle of Champagne. Chief guest and social worker Mukesh Bahadur Singh did it with style making it a night to be remembered for long. Conceptualized by Talent Factory and managed by Aakshara Communication, the event was directed by Ketan Bhatia and Pranav Hamal.
The arguments on the quantum of sentence for six people convicted in the 1993 Mumbai blasts case will continue on Tuesday.

The lawyers for the CBI said they will argue for maximum punishment for all convicts.

Defence Advocate Abdul Wahab Khan had made an application and sought two weeks to prepare arguments on the quantum of sentence.

The TADA court rejected his plea and said the matter is urgent and cant be adjourned.

Six people, including Mustafa Dossa and gangster Abu Salem, were convicted on Friday of conspiring and carrying out a string of bomb blasts that ripped through the heart of Mumbai in 1993 and killed 257 people in what was Indias worst terrorist attack.

Along with Salem and Dossa, the court convicted Firoz Khan, Mohammed Tahir Merchant alias Tahir Taklya, Karimullah Shaikh and Riyaz Ahmed Siddique for the blasts on March 12, 1993. It acquitted Abdul Qayoom Ansari for lack of evidence.

The prosecution is likely to seek capital punishment for three men  Mustaffa Dossa, Firoz Khan, Tahir Merchant  held guilty of actively participating in the conspiracy for the 1993 serial blasts.

The prosecution may seek life for Salem, who was held guilty of supplying arms, ammunition and hand grenades, as the Portugal authorities had allowed his extradition only on condition that he will not be given capital punishment or be imprisoned for more than 25 years.

The court rejected the prosecutions prayer to convict the accused for waging a war against the country, but convicted the accused under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Terrorism and Disruptive Activities Act (TADA).

According to the provisions under which the convicts have been held guilty, the maximum punishment is death.
A 50-year-old music teacher, Rajudi Godambera, was recently arrested for allegedly molesting his 11-year-old student at Manpada in Dombivli near Mumbai.

According to the police, the incident took place at the childs home in Dombivli on June 8 when her parents had gone out.

Read more: Mumbai gynaecologist, 68, arrested for molesting 24-yr-old woman

Police said Godambera touched the girl inappropriately and also threatened her. The teacher left the home before her parents returned.

The girl told her parents about the incident. They approached the police on Sunday. The man was arrested and is now in police custody, said a police officer from Manpada police station.

Read more: Mumbai director tries to take off assistants clothes, says he loves her, will defame her if she resists

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The Shiv Sena taunted its ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying the party should focus on bringing stability to sensitive areas such as Kashmir and Darjeeling, rather than worrying about mid-term elections and completing a full five-year term in Maharashtra.

The taunt came a day after BJP president Amit Shah met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to discuss next months presidential polls. BJP sources said the two leaders agreed to put the recent bitterness behind them and work together.

Whatever has to happen with the mid-term election in Maharashtra will happen. According to Amit Shah, there will be a BJP government even after the election. A president of their choice will be elected. They will contest every election and win, but will we win the fight in Kashmir? Will the lives of soldiers be saved and will Kashmir remain on the Indian map without the sacrifice of soldiers? The country needs answers to these questions, read an editorial in the partys mouthpiece, Saamana.

Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, Shah recently said the BJP was ready for mid-term polls in Maharashtra.

Shah and his party are more worried about a mid-term election. We give them our best wishes. We are more worried about what will happen to Kashmir and Darjeeling, which is burning owing to violence, rather than a mid-term election, read the Shiv Senas editorial.

The party said the BJP should not try to take political advantage of the situation in Darjeeling owing to political differences with West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

The BJP and Shiv Senas relationship has been increasingly choppy of late. The Shiv Sena openly supported the recent farmers agitation in Maharashtra, taking to the streets to protest against the government and bitterly criticising the BJP. The party also made veiled threats about withdrawing from the government.

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If you get a call from a bank executive asking you for your credit or debit card details, dont answer. Cybercriminals collectively duped two men of Rs25,000 in separate incidents this month.

Andheri police said a fraudster posing as an executive from a private bank duped a man in his 20s of Rs9,600. The man received a call from the accused, who told him his debit card was nearing its expiry date. He asked the man for his card details, on the pretext of increasing its validity.

The man gave the fraudster his 16 digit card number, CVV number on the reverse side, and the one time password he received on his phone. He then got a text saying money had been debited from his account. Thats when he realised he had been duped and called a helpline, seeking to block his card, said police.

In the second incident, a Vakola resident reported his cash, two ATM cards and mobile phone missing two weeks ago. He told police that the thief withdrew Rs15,000 from his bank account.

In both cases, police registered an FIR under section 419 (impersonation) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code and section 66C of the Information Technology Act for identity theft.
The bitter mango peels that most of us discard can make jam and jelly less sweet, and therefore healthier than those available in stores. Thats what a team of researchers led by the Indian Institute of Technology  Bombay (IITB) found when they used a process to extract pectin a gel-forming substance used as a universal additive in jams, jellies, ice creams and cosmetics  from the peels of Indian and Australian mangoes. The study is a part of the ongoing research on fruit waste, based at IIT-Bs bio-refinery.

The research assumes significance as India produces 40% to 48% of the worlds mangoes.

Currently, pectin produced from citrus peels and apple pomace is imported for Rs700 to Rs900 a kg from Germany, Mexico and China, owing to a lack of manufacturing capacity in India.

Waste from fruits a global issue Globally, fruit processing industries contribute more than 0.5 billion tonnes of waste. There is no such data available for India. But, primary data on waste from mango processing factories in Maharashtra that was part of the study found that medium scale industries produce up to 50-100 tonnes of waste per day.

In contrast, the five-member team extracted pectin using lemon juice, which is a natural acidifying agent. Despite being such a vast country, India doesnt produce pectin, which is used in food, confectionery, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, professor Amit Arora, principal investigator, Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas, IIT-B.

India produces millions of tonnes of mangoes, but all we now do is compost the peels and generate biogas. We, thus looked at an alternative green approach, in which the mango pulp is extracted and the peels processed right next to the industry without any hazardous chemicals, he added.

Mango peels consist of approximately 20% to 40% of the total mango processing waste (by weight) generated in industries.

The team conducted experiments on Indian mangoes, which showed that the amount of pectin in mango peels varies from 20% to 30% of total peel weight, as compared to commercial sources of pectin from citrus peel (15% to 20%), apple pomace (10% to 15%), sunflower (15% to 25%) and sugar beet (10% to 20%). To make the process of extracting pectin eco-friendly, the IIT-B and Monash University-led team replaced hazardous mineral acids with lemon juice as the former generates effluents, which need to be treated before they are released into the environment.

Conventionally, industries use mineral acids nitric, sulphuric and hydrochloric to extract pectin that gels in presence of highly concentrated sugar.

We used lemon juice to ensure that when we use waste, such as mango peels, it shouldnt result in us producing even more waste, said Jhumur Banerjee, a doctoral student at IITB Monash Research Academy. The effluent from the current process is comparatively safer as there is no mineral acid waste as a by-product.

In addition to preventing acidic effluents, pectin, when extracted using lemon juice, was low on sugar in jams and jelly since it can gel in presence of calcium, which researchers said is a new concept in food additives for products such as low-calorie food and beverages.

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A group of ministers and committee members of farmers outfits from Maharashtra will meet today to decide the norms to waive loans for farmers.

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a complete farm loan waiver last Sunday, after farmers across the state went on an indefinite strike.

Conditions apply: What will make farmer ineligible for loans according to state If the loan has been taken after June 30, 2016 If the farmer has an alternative source of income If they own four-wheelers If they have relatives working for the government If they are taxpayers If they are or are related to those serving as legislators, former legislators, civic body and government employees

Farmers outfits are now against the governments plan of setting June 30, 2016 as the cut-off date for eligibility. Their argument: this would make those who took loans after the date ineligible for waiver.

The norms for the waiver will be decided by consensus between both the government and the farmers.

After announcing a waiver, the government also provided a quick loan of Rs10,000, so farmers could start sowing kharif crops.

The interim loan will be part of the loan waiver package and will be adjusted against the final waiver that is likely to be announced in the coming days.

Ajit Nawale, coordinator of the committee, slammed the government over the cut-off date and termed it injustice to farmers, who are in dire need of help, but will not be eligible, as they have taken loans after June 2016.

Imposing such harsh norms is unjust act. We want the cut-off date to be extended till March 31,  Nawale said.

The norms also exclude farmers who have an alternative source of income, who own four-wheelers from waiver.

Legislators, former legislators, civic body and government employees, employees in institutions affiliated to the government, taxpayers and teachers too are ineligible.

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Two people posing as clean-up marshals were arrested on Saturday, minutes after they allegedly robbed a man of Rs11,000 in Ghatkopar.

Hired by the BMC, clean-up marshals are authorised to fine citizens caught spiting, urinating and littering in public places.

Around 4.30pm on Saturday, Mohamed Shaikh, 22, an air-conditioner mechanic of a Thane-based firm, came to Ghatkopar (East) for work.

While walking near Hingwala market, he spit on a garbage pile. The two accused immediately stopped him, saying they are from the civic body, said a police officer from Pant Nagar police station.

Sidharth Pasi, 26, and Krishna Chauhan, 22, told Shaikh that he would have to pay Rs12,000 fine for spitting. Pasi grabbed his hand while Chauhan forcefully removed his wallet. They took away Rs11,000 from his waller and threatened to beat him if he raised an alarm, said the officer.

After taking the money, the two escaped. Shaikh saw two police constables on a motorcycle and narrated the incident. The policemen hailed an auto rickshaw and started looking for the accused with Shaikh, said the officer.

They found the two at Tilak Road in Ghatkopar. The police arrested them and recovered Rs11,000 from them.

During questioning, the two said that they had robbed a womans purse on March 16. A case has been lodged at Pant Nagar police station.

After the accused said they had robbed a woman, we checked the records and found that a case had been lodged, said the officer.

The accused are residents of Ramabai Nagar in Ghatkopar. The police are investigating if more people have been robbed by them. The accused have been booked under Indian Penal Code (IPC) section 392 (robbery) and 34 (common intention).

Read: More clean-up marshals to be deployed near Mumbai nullahs

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The Thane crime branch unit -1 arrested a man with fake currency notes of Rs10 lakh on Saturday.

The accused Dashrath Bholu,36, who lives in Mumbra, does odd jobs, said crime branch officials. The fake notes are in the denomination of Rs2,000 and look quite like the original notes, said the cops.

The crime branch unit-1 had received a tip off that a man with fake Rs2,000 notes will come to Kalwa in Thane on Saturday. The police laid a trap and arrested Bholu.

During interrogation, Bholu confessed that he got the fake currency notes from Uttar Pradesh (UP). He said he got the money out to hand it over to someone, who is yet to be identified. He was booked for counterfeiting of currency under the Indian Penal Code and a case was registered against him at Kalwa police station. We are also investigating to find if any other person is involved in this racket. Meanwhile, we will coordinate with UP police and might send a team there to investigate the matter, said a police officer from Kalwa police station.

Read more: Fake currency accused jailed for five years in Mumbai

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Unaided schools in Maharashtra will not get state government grant-in-aid until they conform to the reservation policy, the Bombay high court held.

The division bench of Justices Bhushan Gavai and Riyaz Chagla said the compliance of reservation policy is a condition for unaided schools to be entitled to get funds from the state. In November 2011, the state government decided to start providing grant-in-aid to permanent unaided primary and secondary schools across Maharashtra. The extension of the benefit of government aid was of course conditional and one of the conditions was that non-minority schools should have complied with the governments policy of reservation in employment of teachers and non-teaching staff members.

A bunch of schools had approached high court challenging the condition contending that it was arbitrary, irrational and illegal. Their counsel Suresh Pakale argued that if SC orders are to be followed, reservation policy cannot be imposed on unaided schools.

Pakale added that after right to education was brought in the Constitution it is mandatory for the state to reimburse unaided schools which are discharging the duties of the state as its agents to provide free and compulsory education to all. State cannot run away from its responsibility merely on the ground that the reservation policy is not complied with by the schools, Pakale said.

The HC, however, found no substance in the contentions and granted liberty to individual schools to approach concerned authorities with their plea for grant-in-aid after Pakale pointed out that many of the unaided schools have substantially complied with the reservation policy. The bench further directed the authorities to consider their applications if they find that the school has substantially complied with the policy.
The BEST Workers Union has threatened strike from Friday, to protest against salaries not being paid to workers.

The union, one of the largest of BEST workers, said they were upset with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) decision to disburse only 50% of the salary to its staff.

No BEST employee will report to work from June 22 midnight if the salaries are not paid by that day,said Shashank Rao, the union leader.

This could spell chaos on Mumbais roads, as thousands of commuters depend on the buses to get to work every day.

Going through its worst-ever financial crisis , BEST, which runs both the city bus service and distributes electricity, has been unable to pay salaries of employees on time for the past few months. This month too, their salary was delayed. An Industrial court had directed BEST to pay employees before June 20, 2017.

Rao said despite the courts directive, the BEST administration is paying only 50% of the salary. Our workers salary is already delayed and now, BEST is paying only half of it. How will we run our homes or pay school and college fees for our children?,asked Rao.

The undertaking has more than 40,000 employees, responsible for running 3,600 buses, besides supplying power to 10 lakh consumers.

The BEST administration, however, has not spoken about the issue. The newly appointed general manager is on a training tour to America since June 2. Anil Kokil, chairman of the BEST panel, called for a meeting with BMC commissioner Ajoy Mehta on Monday, but the outcome is not known yet.

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Almost a week after a teenager from Vikhroli, Ganesh Ingole, died after falling off a local train near Kalwa in Thane, the police found his body on Saturday.

According to police, Ganesh, 18, was trying to flick the cap of a worker working on the railway tracks between Thane and Kalwa. As he bend down, his crashed into the pole. His left shoulder got fractured, after which he lost his balance and fell into the creek.

Two of his friends, who were with Ganesh at the time of the incident, returned home. They did not tell their parents anything. A missing persons complaint was filed with the Parksite police station in Vikhroli on June 11.

 On questioning, one of the boys revealed what had happened. We launched a manhunt and alerted a police station in the vicinity. The body which was highly decomposed, said Sachin Patil, deputy commissioner of police, zone -7.

We will check with the CCTV footage of station and also we will talk to the railway workers who were working on the spot to check what exactly happened.

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A parent from South Mumbai has complained to the states school education department that her child failed in class 9 exam as an ICSE-affiliated school did not conduct internal assessments according to the boards rules.

The child, a student of a Peddar Road school, scored 40 % marks but failed in Economics and Hindi. The school authorities said they decided to detain her in class 9 as she had been performing poorly for the last five years.

Crying foul, the students parent said the school only held one written test when the board rules state that students should be marked based on assignments/project work, practical and course work. The parent said, My kid has undergone a lot of trauma and this has taken a toll on her confidence.

The complaint says this student and four others were detained in class 9 without being provided an opportunity to avail the provisions the education department provides viz. remedial classes, re-test, and internal assessment.

The school had made the parent sign an undertaking last year stating that the parent would admit the student in another school if the performance in exams is not up to the mark. The education officials said schools cannot take such undertakings.

The school said, We made a lot of efforts to improve the students performance, but we realised that she would not pass even with grace marks. She is not academically weak, but has behavioural issues. Taking all this into consideration, we decided to fail her.

The school principal said, The board doesnt say that a written exam is not part of internal assessments.We conducted other assessments but didnt include those marks in the final score.

EXPERTSPEAK

Internal assessments must include projects, assignments, assessment of speaking and listening skills. They cant only be in the form of a written exam, said Gerry Arathoon, chief of the Council of Indian School Certificate of Examination.

Schools fail students to fare better in boards

Educationists say many Mumbai schools fail Class 9 students to betters its Class 10 results.

They added that schools take this step without providing the students with any appropriate remedial help. Though the education department has noticed this trend, but it has failed to curb the practice.

One of the major reasons is lack of supervision. Even though the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, emphasises on schools identifying academically weak students and working towards improving their performance, in reality, few schools plan any substantial interventions for such students.

In most schools, remedial classes are just a free period in which students are asked to complete their homework. Schools are mistaking self-study or supervised study for remedial classes. There should be extra classes for weak students, said a teacher from a South Mumbai school.

A principal of a Mazgaon school said, Internal assessments, remedial classes should be conducted throughout the year. However, some schools said holding remedial classes is expensive. For remedial lessons, teachers expect to be paid separately for the extra-time they put in. Often parents dont co-operate and dont want to pay for it. How much can a school do in such a situation?, said Perin Bagli, principal, Activity High School, Peddar Road.

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While Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah had sought the partys consent after finalising Bihar governor Ramnath Kovind as its presidential candidate, the Sena has refrained from commenting on the issue so far.

Congratulations to Shri #RamnathKovind ji on being nominated as NDA Presidential candidate ! pic.twitter.com/xIWtWI4p9P  Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) June 19, 2017

Sources said that while the party is being cautious, chief Uddhav Thackeray is likely to clarify his stance when he addresses Shiv Sena workers on Monday evening  the partys 51st foundation day.

Amit Shah called the Shiv Sena chief after the BJP parliamentary board decided its presidential candidate. He explained the reason for his decision and asked for the Shiv Senas consent, said Raut.

Thackeray told Shah that the party will discuss the issue with its leaders and decide upon a course of action in a day or two, said Raut.

The Shiv Senas first preference for the National Democratic Alliances (NDAs) presidential candidate was Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat. After Bhagwat did not express interest in the post, it pitched agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan as an alternative.

On Sunday, Shah went to Thackerays Bandra home, seeking his support for the NDAs presidential candidate. However, he did not reveal the candidates he had in mind. Thackeray had said that while he wants to support the NDA candidate, the BJP needs to list potential candidates so he can comment.

For the past two presidential elections, the Shiv Sena has broken ranks with the NDA and backed Congress nominees Pranab Mukherjee and Pratibha Patil.

Voting for the presidential election is scheduled on July 17, while the counting will take place on July 20, four days before President Pranab Mukherjees term ends.

With 18 MPs and 63 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), the Shiv Sena has 25,893 votes for the election, as the electoral college for the presidential poll includes 708 points for every MP and 175 for every legislator in Maharashtra.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president Amit Shah addressed opinion makers and citizen groups in Mumbai on Sunday. His tone kept the partys target of shat pratishat BhaJaPa or 100% BJP in the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections intact.

Shah said his address intended to introduce BJP to the enlightened opinion makers. The former Gujarat home minister said that he had not come to make any political statements. India is the worlds largest democracy and it is very important to assess the character of the party that will lead the country. Only a party that thrives on internal democracy can uphold Indias democratic ethos, he said.

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, president of Maharashtras BJP unit Raosaheb Danve, railway minister Suresh Prabhu, and Union minister of state (independent) for power Piyush Goyal also attended the address. Shah also praised Fadnavis for transforming Mumbai with various infrastructure projects.

In his speech, Shah slammed Congress and said that the BJP believed in action, achieving targets and delivering on the development agenda.

Attacking the Congress and other political parties over dynasty politics, Shah said, You dont have to be born in a particular family or belong to a caste to become the national president of the BJP. If we want to save our democracy, we have to select the party that still has its internal democracy intact.

He reiterated that Congress party was devoid of principles and a special purpose vehicle to attain freedom. The Congress was not formed on principles; people from different ideologies came together to fight for freedom. [After independence] the Congress stayed in politics just for power, said Shah.

According to senior BJP functionaries, the meeting was organised to discuss three years of the Modi government and to highlight the achievements of the Centre and Maharashtra government. However, former central information commissioner and RTI activist Shailesh Gandhi said that the event was a rally and not a discussion between the party and opinion makers.

I left midway as it was clearly a BJP public meeting. There were party workers in the crowd. I expected a smaller meet with about 200 people and prominent citizen groups. It should have listened to citizens issues  what we think, what we want from the government. If I had to listen to Amit Shahs political speech, I could do it on YouTube anytime, he told HT.

The BJP, however, defended the event saying that it was an effort to put out the partys ideas and achievements. It was not a party function. We organised it for everyone. Mumbai has a huge population, so if we want to talk to with leaders, we cant call just 200 to 300 people. There were around 2,000 people and we sought suggestions from leaders. The response was good, said Madhav Bhandari, Maharashtra BJP spokesperson.

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While travelling by the Tejas Express is set to get safer, police found the body of a teenager from Vikhroli a week after he fell off a local train trying to flick the cap of a railway worker, proving that such stunts are unsafe.

Meanwhile, police sought actor Ajay Devgans help to make a video warning people of how cybercriminals operate. Another actor, Anjali Shrivastava, 29, was found hanging at her home in Juhu today.

1. Mumbai police takes Singhams help to protect you from credit or debit card frauds

The Mumbai police wants to do everything possible to protect you from cyberfraudsters. And this time, it has taken help from actor Ajay Devgan, also known for his reel portrayal of an honest police officer Bajirao Singham, to give awareness tips to citizens through a video.

2. 1993 Mumbai blasts case: Arguments on quantum of sentence for 6 convicts to continue on Tue

The arguments on the quantum of sentence for six people convicted in the 1993 Mumbai blasts case will continue on Tuesday.

3. Mumbai-Goa Tejas Express gets new diesel engine, becomes faster and safer

Flagged off four weeks ago, the first high-speed luxury premium train Tejas express will be run on a new powerful diesel engine from Monday.

4. Mumbai teen falls off train while trying to flick railway workers cap, body found a week later

Almost a week after a teenager from Vikhroli, Ganesh Ingole, died after falling off a local train near Kalwa in Thane, the police found his body on Saturday.

5. Bhojpuri actor found dead at Mumbai home

Bhojpuri actor Anjali Shrivastava, 29, was found hanging at her home in Juhu in Andheri West on Monday morning.
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray told Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah were caught in a deadlock on Sunday over the presidential poll .While the Sena chief said his party is willing to support the National Democratic Alliances (NDA) candidate, he would want to know the name before offering his support. Shah met Thackeray on the last day of his three-day visit to the city at the latters residence, Matoshree in Bandra (East).

The BJP president, however, did not reveal the name and simply sought the Senas support.

According to sources from the two parties, Shah requested Thackeray to have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modis choice. Thackeray, however, insisted on knowing the name.Besides Thackeray and Shah, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, BJP Maharashtra chief Raosaheb Danve and Yuva Sena chief Aaditya Thackeray also attended the meeting, which went on for an hour-and-a-half.

A senior Sena leader said, Our party chief said the Sena wants to support the NDA candidate. We have faith in the prime minister, but as an NDA constituent we have the right to know the potential candidates. Only then we can comment.

BJP sources, however, said the talks were very positive with the two parties agreeing to resolve all differences, and the Sena willing to support the NDA in the presidential election.

The Sena has agreed to support the NDA candidate. Shah told the Sena chief that we havent had our party meeting. We will finalise the candidate then. While finalising the candidate all NDA constituents will be taken into consideration. On that, Thackeray said we should decide our candidate and let the Sena know, only then will he extend support, a senior BJP leader said.

In Sundays meeting, Thackeray also reiterated the Senas preferences for the presidents post. The Sena has been pitching the name of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat for the post, saying a president can like him can guide India in the direction of a Hindu nation, help resolve the Ram Mandir issue in Ayodhya and enforce a uniform civic code. If the BJP has any opposition to nominating the head of its ideological outfit as president, the Sena wants it to consider 91-year-old agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, also known as the Indian father of the Green Revolution, saying he can help the government find solutions to the deep agrarian crises that has gripped several parts of the country. Bhagwat, meanwhile, has ruled himself out.

Earlier in a press conference in Mumbai on Saturday evening, Shah had said the BJP was unfairly getting flak over next months presidential polls even when the party is trying to build an all-party consensus by taking into account everyones suggestions rather than declaring a candidate right at the outset.

For the past two presidential elections, the Sena has broken away with the NDA and backed Congress nominees Pratibha Patil and Pranab Mukherjee.

Voting for the presidential election is scheduled on July 17, while the counting will take place on July 20, four days before Mukherjees term ends.

With 18 MPs and 63 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), the Sena has 25,893 votes with the party for the election, as the electoral college for the presidential election includes 708 points for every MP and 175 for every legislator from Maharashtra.

Relations between the BJP and the Sena have been increasingly choppy of late. Despite being part of the BJP-led Maharashtra government, the Sena supported the recent farmers stir against the state government, bitterly criticising the BJP, taking to the streets in protests, and even issuing veiled threats of withdrawing support to the government.

BJP sources said Shah and Thackeray also discussed issues causing the recent bitterness between the BJP and the Sena in within the Maharashtra government. Both leaders agreed that the parties will end their differences and work together within the government going forward, a senior BJP leader said.
The chairman of the Supreme Court-appointed Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority, Dr Bhure Lal, said on Monday that a sewage treatment plant (STP) will be set up at Kalyanpuri in Delhi by September 30 to tackle the pollution caused by the Shahdara drain.

He added that trees and shrubs should also be planed along the stretch of the drain falling in Noida simultaneously.

The Shahdara drain runs for seven kilometres through Noida before it empties into the Yamuna river near Kalindi Kunj in Delhi. The drain has been a contentious issue for sectors 14, 14A, 15 and 15A set up along its length as the residents have been suffering due to the gases being released from the drain. They say it has been affecting the groundwater and their health, electronic gadgets, utensils and bathroom fittings.

Lal directed a representative of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to ensure that the STP at Kalyanpuri is made functional by September. I will monitor it personally. If not done by September, we will have to take other measures to get it done, he said.

He was speaking at a conclave organised by the Sector 14 residents welfare association (RWA) on Monday on the environmental degradation caused by the drain.

He added that most STPs in the country run at only 50% of their installed capacity due to various reasons. Setting up an STP is not sufficient. The agencies involved must ensure removal of sludge, grit and debris in the drain for the plant to be effective, said Lal.

Besides this, he said, the horticulture department will plant trees and shrubs along the stretch of drain falling in Noida.

The Noida authoritys deputy chief executive officer (DCEO) Soumya Srivastava, who was present at the conclave, said IIT Roorke was commissioned last year to conduct a study to check the foul smell emanating from the drain. Based on their recommendation, we planted nearly 7,500 plants and 14,000 shrubs from Sector 14 to Kalndi Kunj along the drain last year, he said.

Read I Noida authority directs health department to clean drains by June 20

The drain originally came up as the Shahdara canal, which was built by Delhis irrigation and flood control department to prevent floods in the trans-Yamuna area in the aftermath of the 1961 floods that affected large parts of East Delhi.

Created in 1976, the same year as Noida, the canal was created to carry flood water away from the Yamuna bed in case of a natural disaster. But for the past four decades, the canal has been reduced to a drain that largely carries sewage from Delhi.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, who is a resident of Sector 14, said if the noxious gases from the drain can affect electronic gadgets so badly, one can imagine the state of health of the people who inhale the gases.

Sushil Kumar Agarwal, another Sector 14 resident, who had filed a PIL against the drain, said the residents have been fighting a legal battle with the DJB for the past 20 years. A year ago, an STP with a capacity of 9 million gallons per day was set up at the Chilla regulator. Every day, Delhi empties around 125-150 million gallons of sewage into the Shahdara drain. Is the STP facility adequate to treat the sewage going into the drain or is this entire mass of untreated sewage emptied into the Yamuna on a daily basis? he said.

Noida MLA Pankaj Singh, who was also present at the conclave, said he will take up the matter with the Delhi and UP governments and even the Union government if required. I am committed to find a solution to the problem, he said.

At the event, two organisations  Indian National Trust for Art, Culture and Heritage (Intach) and Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust  also gave presentations on their proposed solutions to clean the drain and rid it of the foul smell. While Intach suggested bio-remediation, the other suggested the use of enzymes.

The DCEO said that the Noida authority held a meeting with Intach two days ago and will invite Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust to give a presentation in a couple of days. He said that the they will choose either of the two technologies, depending on their efficacy.

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To check traffic violations, the traffic police has constituted a separate enforcement team that has been tasked to make rounds of the city throughout the day. This team will be dedicated to ensuring that no traffic violations take place in Noida.

The enforcement team comprises eight traffic personnel  six constables and two head constables. The team is also equipped with two cranes to tow haphazardly parked vehicles and impose fines on violators.

A senior officer said that a timing has been fixed for the enforcement team to conduct its operation. The personnel will be on duty from 9am to 7pm, apart from the other traffic police personnel who will continue to perform their routine duty.

On the basis of complaints, the team would carry out operations in areas on a daily basis. The process will be a continuous one as violations stop for some days and begin again. We have to be alert all the time, said Anil Kumar Jha, superintendent of police (traffic).

He said the move will ensure that personnel regulating vehicular movement will not have to bear the burden of curbing violations and penalising violators.

Earlier, a traffic policeman had to regulate the traffic as well as flag down violators and impose fine on them. This practice was time-consuming because of which traffic would go haywire. Now, they only have to ensure that people dont break the rules, Jha said.

The enforcement wing has been directed to remain alert to tackle all traffic-related problems and the number of personnel in the team would be increased by the end of the month.

We have identified 10 major intersections in the city and the enforcement team has to remain present every day at each of these junctions to ensure that the traffic is not affected, Jha said.

Sources said the traffic police in Noida is under immense pressure following three to four visits of VVIPs a day. The traffic police have a total strength of 162 personnel in the district.

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The district magistrate on Monday ordered a magisterial probe into the alleged laxity of doctors and police in a case of attempted rape of a two-year-old girl in Modi Nagar. The inquiry has been handed over to the subdivisional magistrate and a report has been sought within two days.

The alleged incident took place on June 15 and, according to police,the relative of a co-tenant allegedly attempted to rape the minor girl on finding her alone in the house.

The officials said the girls mother had approached doctors to get the girl examined, but the doctors allegedly turned her away.

On returning home, she told her husband about the incident after he returned from work. He called up the police and, yet again, the victim was taken to the community health centre (CHC) in Modi Nagar. There, too, the CHC staff denied her a medical examination citing non-availability of a woman doctor. The medical examination was finally done at 9am on June 17, said Atul Kumar, SDM, Modi Nagar.

The police too have been accused of registering a case under the lenient sections of molestation, instead of rape, the officials said.

The police, on the other hand, registered a case under sections of molestation and different provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. On June 17 at 9pm, they added sections of rape and also further provisions of the POCSO Act. The DM took a strong exception to the attitude of the community health centre staff and also the lenient sections under which the police had registered a case initially, Kumar said.

The SDMs inquiry will probe the alleged laxity of the medical staff and also the view taken by the police in a sensitive matter. The officials said vital evidence was lost as the girl was initially denied a medical examination.

Recently, the Uttar Pradesh director general of police had directed his department officials to empathize with rape victims and register FIRs without any delay.

On May 18, a 26-year-old man allegedly raped his landladys daughter, a minor, and fled the residence in a locality under Sahibabad police station of Ghaziabad. The incident came to light when the 10-year- old girl complained of abdominal pain to her widowed mother.
Ask any average Bengali and they will tell you that they are dead against Gorkhaland. Their primary objection to the creation of a separate state is essentially the possible loss of the hill resort of Darjeeling to the new entity.

This makes their visceral opposition also frivolous. When East Coast Railways was carved out of the behemoth South Eastern Railway as a separate zone in 2003, the Bengali bhadraloks were equally mortified. The Odiyas wanted it to redeem their regional pride that they suspected was being subsumed to the interests of neighbouring Bengalis. But just as they are ranged against Gorkhaland now, Bengal politicians including current chief minister Mamata Banerjee, were opposed to the move then.

The similarities do not end there. Just as we Bengalis are outraged at the very thought of losing Darjeeling, we were equally shocked at the prospect of not being able to visit our favourite holiday destination of Puri on Odishas coast.

A decade and a half later, our misgivings about Puri have proven to be misplaced. Tens of thousands of Bengalis still visit the seaside town round the year, riding trains run by the East Coast instead of Southern Railways.

Likewise, Darjeeling too will not lose any of its lustre if it is to become the seat of administration for a new state. Budget Bengali tourists in all probability will continue to make a beeline for it.

So it is about time Bengalis should set aside their emotional opposition and weigh the demand for separate Gorkhaland for whatever its worth. During its peak in the 1980s, the Gorkhaland agitation had cost 1,200 lives. The revival of the protests since the past week has already claimed several lives and is threatening to spiral further. All this and more make it imperative for Bengal and its leaders to have a rethink on the issue.

True, strong arguments can be made both for and against the creation of Gorkhaland. Gorkhas suffer from an identity crisis among a sea of Bengali-speaking population and a new state will address their alienation. Darjeeling is some 600km from Kolkata and there is no harm in bringing the state administration closer to the people of the hills. More importantly, the new state, including Darjeeling, will remain part of India. It is not that the hills, Darjeeling included, will fall into somebody elses lap.

The arguments against the new state can be equally compelling. Nepali-speaking Gorkhas are present in huge numbers but are not necessarily in majority in many of the areas that proponents of statehood want as their territory. Gorkhas are also not the only voice to reckon with the hills of north Bengal and the other communities such as the Lepchas and Tamangs may not be on board with the demand for Gorkhaland. Hiving off Gorkhaland known for its tea, timber and tourism will leave West Bengal financially poorer. Furthermore, creation of a new state may trigger more copy-cat demands elsewhere.

Whatever the pros and cons, redrawing state boundaries do not imperil Indias future, though it might serve a huge political setback for certain individuals in power in West Bengal. But political considerations of a few should not colour the collective view. The issue of Gorkhaland needs a practical solution grounded in reality, not an emotional response. Let the talks begin.

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The BJPs Ram Nath Kovind is all set to be the countrys first President born and brought up in Uttar Pradesh.

Till now the Rashtrapati Bhawans third occupant, Zakir Hussain, was the only one with direct association with the key state. But he wasnt born in UP. His family migrated to Farukkhabad from Hyderabad, his place of birth in whats now Telangana.

Of the thirteen prime ministers starting from Pandit Nehru, seven were from UP. It isnt surprising then that presidencies went to other provinces; the imperatives of representative democracy necessitating regional parity in selection of candidates for high constitutional offices.

From the BJPs standpoint, the elevation of Kovind -- born in 1945 in Derapur sub-division of what is now Kanpur Dehat -- will fetch it the credit for installing a Dalit as the countrys president. The only scheduled caste president before him was KR Narayanan, the thirteenth incumbent.

Kovind isnt as erudite as his predecessor who was a student of Harold Laski. It was the latters recommendation to Nehru that fetched him a job in the Indian Foreign Service.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, Kovinds election should be a foregone conclusion. He will bring to the high office his parliamentary experience as two-term member of the Rajya Sabha. He also practiced law for over 15 years in High Court and Supreme Court.

Be that as it may, a political consensus appears unlikely on Kovinds candidature. At the same time, it will be difficult for Opposition parties to reject upfront a Dalit for the presidency. The options available to them include fielding a tribal or another Dalit by showing their choice as more meritorious for the top job.

The BJPs selection announced by its president Amit Shah seems guided more by political expediency than suitability for the indirectly-filled constitutional office. On the face of it, Kovinds elevation is expected to repair and consolidate his partys social base. There are worries that tensions between scheduled castes and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths Rajput clansmen in UP could unravel the saffron parivars socio-electoral engineering.

As much integral to that social repair-cum-consolidation script is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Hes a backward who represents UP and not his home-base of Gujarat in the Lok Sabha. That makes it a one-plus-one equal to eleven deal for the populous state which is central to the BJPs game to win Delhi in 2019.
To say that the United States is still getting used to Donald Trump as president, six months into his inauguration, is at the very least, an understatement. It is against a backdrop of unpredictability unleashed by the presidents policy and turbulence, both domestically and globally, that Prime Minister Narendra Modis much-awaited meeting with Trump will take place in Washington on June 26.

Trumps challenges abound on his own turf  from the courts, from Congress, and media on everything from travel restrictions on people from six Muslim countries, to charges of rigging the elections by colluding with Russia, to his attacks on the free press. Since he took over, Trump hasnt indicated any sense of respect for, or desire to follow, traditional levers of diplomacy, leaving much to personal interactions with individual leaders.

If the leaks are any indication, Washingtons foreign policy establishment is frustrated. Key senior positions  including that of ambassador to India  are still empty, leaving the department of state and the department of defence largely rudderless. Campaign rhetoric on trade practices forgotten, Trump called Chinas Xi Jinping a great guy. China, Saudi Arabia, (where he visited and, again forgetting campaign rhetoric, reaffirmed Americas friendship and declared Qatar an enemy throwing West Asia into crisis; even Russia has understood this paradigm shift, and opened direct communication with Trump and his team of family insiders. A personal rapport is also what Delhis clunky foreign policy machinery hopes to achieve when the two leaders meet.

The Indian side is confronted with some key concerns that Modi could raise in Washington. Indian nationals living in the US have been at the receiving end of an all-consuming anti-immigration rhetoric. Srinivas Kuchibhotla became the first to be killed in a hate crime after the immigration bans were announced, in Kansas. (It took Trump six days to condemn the killing). Campaign promises of nationalist and protectionist policies have impacted the immigration of highly skilled workers to the US. The much-sought after H1-B visa is subject to much greater scrutiny. Several new initiatives aimed at reforming skilled immigrant hiring policies have been introduced in Congress, raising alarm among Indian IT companies.

Under Barack Obama, India-US ties saw significant expansion in defence, counter-terrorism and trade cooperation. Indian national security managers are keen on expanding this particularly in ways that strengthen and solidify US support in combating Pakistan-sponsored extremism against India. New Delhi hasnt forgotten that phone call between Trump and Nawaz Sharif  calling him a fantastic leader of a fantastic country, but is quick to replace that memory with the more recent snub to Sharif in Saudi Arabia a few weeks ago where Trump referred to India (and not to Pakistan) as a victim of radical terror. An agreement for the sale of non-weaponised drones by US companies to India has been on the table for at least two years. Could India use Trumps proclamations on the threat of Islamic extremism to secure the deal at the meeting?

For now, Washingtons South Asia policy seems restricted to Afghanistans security, critical for the region of course, but also the US. Indias challenge lies in bringing some of that attention to its own specific security concerns to the rest of the region, vis-a-vis Pakistan, and the all-weather China-Pakistan nexus.

Just how India will raise these concerns and what response it can expect, is unclear. Notions of shared democratic values are changing, and hard policy aside, the Trump era poses a major challenge for India-US ties.

Many compare Modi with Trump  for their populist politics and disregard of the media and civil society. But the comparison ends there. Modi, for all the criticism at home for a flagging economy, an agrarian crisis and silence as the number of incidents of communal violence rise, has consistently expressed the need to consolidate Indias role as a global player, with the US as lead partner.

However, given Trumps fickle politics, his lack of attention to the need for a balance of power in Asia, and US foreign policy that swings from autopilot in some areas to dramatic shifts in others, New Delhi must lower its expectations and accept the possibility that this visit could be more about the optics than any real outcomes. Perhaps the best India can hope for when the two leaders meet, is holding on to the status quo until there is some stability in Washington. In these times, even that is good. As the old saying goes: Dont make best the enemy of the good.

Bharath Gopalaswamy is director, South Asia Center, Atlantic Council, Washington DC, and Maya Mirchandani is senior fellow, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi

The views expressed are personal
Taking note of allegations of objectionable scenes in the recently released Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Super Singh, the Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) set up a four-member probe panel.

The panel watched the movie on Monday evening. Its coordinator Sukhdev Singh said that they would submit its report to the SGPC chief on Tuesday, who would take action accordingly.

SGPC president Kirpal Singh Badungar had said the panel will look into complaints against scenes such as one in which a missile heads towards the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of the Sikhs.

The film depicts imaginary scenes about the shrine and Akal Takht (the supreme temporal seat of the Sikhs), Badungar says. Followers have also raised objections about disrespect shown to the turban, he says.

The probe panel comprises SGPC member Ram Singh, Rajinder Singh Mehta, additional secretary Simarjit Singh and Sukhdev Singh.

If a filmmaker wants to make people aware about Sikhism, he should get the script cleared from the SGPC. The film should have been released only after that. Nobody will be allowed to play with Sikh sentiments for commercial interest, Badungar says.

He appealed to the film industry to show sensitivity while making movies on religious issues.

Mumbai-based director Anurag Singhs Super Singh, also starring Sonam Bajwa, was released on June 16. He is the director of the popular Jatt and Juliet series.
For Chandigarh residents, Europe has emerged to be among the most preferred overseas travel destination during summer vacation.

With a spike in demand, travel agents across the city have a variety of offers to Europe readily available. Most travel agents agree that there has been a 20% rise in tricity residents looking to travel to Europe and other international destinations such as Singapore and Dubai.

According to the travel agencies, 30% of Chandigarh residents travelling this summer have booked their tickets for Eastern Europe, followed by Singapore and Dubai. Direct international flights from Chandigarh are also flying full capacity.

Rajeev Kale, president and country head of leisure travel and MICE at Thomas Cook (India) Limited said that from an international perspective, the highest demand from family segment of the tricity this year has been for Europe and USA, followed by South Africa and Australia-New Zealand. Couples and millennials are preferring Bali, Singapore, Malaysia and Dubai, Kale said.

In the summers, domestic travel has grown by 30% while a growth of 20 % has been observed in the outbound space, said Karan Anand, head, relationships, Cox and Kings.

European destinations such as UK, France, Switzerland and Germany are in maximum demand. There is also a growth in demand for cruise holidays. Double digit growth has been seen in fly-cruise packages to Singapore and Mediterranean, Anand added.

Tailor-made travel packages and other offers of free nights, 5-10% discounts on international tours and cashback up to Rs 4,000 are also attracting the residents.

Singapore and Hong Kong are most preferred destinations for cruises, followed by Europe, Ezeego1 CEO and director Neelu Singh said. In the past two years, there has been a rise in the number of travellers ready to experiment with unexplored places. More than 40% of the travellers from the north are booking holidays to exotic places.

SOTCs Amod Thatte agrees. There has been a growing demand for international destinations like Europe and USA, and domestic destinations like Leh, Ladakh and Bhutan from the tricity, he said. Other popular destinations are Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, along with short-haul destinations like Mauritius, Dubai, Thailand, Singapore, Bali, Hong Kong, he added.

WHY EUROPE?

Cooler climes, single currency across multiple countries, relaxed border crossing are among the many reasons city residents are preferring Europe over run-on-the-mill destinations such as Thailand and Bali. Travel agents said tricity residents have started looking for niche destinations, which are more experimental and expensive as well. In domestic destinations, Nainital-Masoori-Corbett, Shimla-Manali, North Eastern destinations such as Gangtok-Pelling-Darjeeling and Ladakh are among best-sellers. Ranthambore and Bharatpur are popular among wildlife enthusiast, while Uttarakhand has emerged among the most-preferred adventure destinations.

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The Punjab government is planning to set up a regulatory body to monitor functioning of private hospitals in the state. Health and family welfare minister Brahm Mohindra made this disclosure while replying to a query during the Question Hour in the state assembly.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator from Maur, Jagdev Singh, had raised the issue of alleged fleecing of patients in private hospitals across the state.

Yes, we are receiving complaints (against private hospitals), said Mohindra. Patients are being fleeced in the name of exorbitant medicines and room rent. A monitoring body for private hospitals is on the cards.

The regulatory body will monitor the room rent and excessive medicines prescribed to the patients, he said. However, the minister did not mention any deadline for setting up the body.

Social pensions to be credited every 3 months

The Punjab government will be transferring social security pensions directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries collectively every three months.

There has been a backlog of many months in the distribution of pensions because of the mess created by the previous government, said social security minister Razia Sultana, responding to a query by Congress MLA Nathu Ram. But now our government has released 274 crore to clear the backlog. The pensioners in Amritsar, Jalandhar and Ludhiana districts will get the pensions for up to December 2016 while the remaining will get these till January 2017.

Meanwhile, on fellow Congress MLA Randeep Singh Nabhas question on fulfilling the pre-poll promise of domestic and commercial power at 5 per unit, power minister Rana Gurjit Singh evaded a reply.

Time cannot be specific, said Rana.
New Delhi: Questions on Goods and Services Tax (GST), benami transactions and schemes run by the Central government were asked in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) civil services preliminary examination held on Sunday.

The aspirants were also asked questions related to National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), Vidyanjali Yojana and Smart India Hackathon, all of which are the NDA governments initiatives.

Lakhs of aspirants appeared in the preliminary examination held across the country.

What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing Goods and Services Tax? reads a question.

The option for students to choose the correct answers included it will enormously increase the row and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future.

The second option was It will drastically reduce the Current Account Deficit (CAD) of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserve.

The third option given in the first paper of the test was It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India.

The civil services examination is conducted by the UPSC annually in three stages --preliminary, main and interview -- to select candidates for the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), among others.

The preliminary exam consisting of two papers (Paper I and Paper II) of two hours duration each was held without any reported incidents of protests, official sources said. The first paper began at 9.30 am and second one started at 2:30 pmM.

The candidates were also asked questions with reference to Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988.

With a view to providing effective regime to check the benami transactions, the 1988 Act was last year changed through the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amended Act, 2016. The amended law empowers the specified authorities to provisionally attach benami properties which can eventually be confiscated. It has penal provisions for the defaulters.

There were questions on the NSQF, a competency based framework that organises all qualifications according to a series of levels of knowledge, skills and aptitude to ultimately help an individual to get a job or start his own work, asked in the exam.

Paper I also had a question on the governments Smart India Hackathon, the worlds biggest ever open innovation model to find digital solutions to the problems of state and union territories.

Another question was on the Vidyanjali scheme, an initiative to enhance community and private sector involvement in government-run elementary schools across the country. Through this initiative, people from the Indian diaspora, retired teachers, former government officials and defence personnel, professionals and women who are home makers can volunteer at a school that requests for one.

There were questions on GST and benami and since I know about these initiatives, I hope to have answered them correctly, said Ashish, who took the test.

The UPSC did not make public the total number of candidates who applied for the test and those who actually sat for it. About 11.35 lakh candidates had applied for the last years prelims exam. Of these, 4,59,659 had appeared in the test held on August 7, 2016.

As many as 15,452 candidates qualified for appearance in the written examination held in December last year. Of them, 2,961 candidates qualified for the personality test or interview conducted in March-May, this year.

A total of 1,099 candidates (846 men and 253 women) qualified the exam, result of which was declared on May 31.
President Ashraf Ghani has inaugurated the first Afghanistan-India air corridor during a ceremony at the Kabul international airport  a direct route that bypasses Pakistan and is meant to improve commerce.

Ghani, who thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the air corridor, said the aim of the route is to create more opportunities and make Afghanistan an exporter country. India is a big market for Afghan goods, he said.

The presidents adviser, Sediqullah Mujadedi, said Afghan agricultural products will for the first time head to India on cargo planes. Mujadedi said the first India-bound flight on Monday included 60 tons of medicinal plants and a second flight will carry 40 tons of dry fruits from the southern Kandahar province.

Afghanistan is a mountainous landlocked country and all imports and exports depend on neighbouring countries. Even before relations between Kabul and Islamabad became strained over accusations of harbouring militants, Pakistan has stymied Afghanistans efforts to trade with India.

After Afghanistan and Pakistan signed a transit trade agreement in 2010, Islamabad allowed Afghan trucks to carry goods up to the Indian border but barred them from ferrying any Indian goods through Pakistani territory.

The Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) said the medicinal plants carried on the first flight were valued at $11 million. ACCI officials said the cost of transporting a kilogram of vegetables and fresh fruit from Kabul and Kandahar to Indian markets will be about 20 cents per kg, and the cost of a kilogram of goods from India to Afghanistan will be about 40 cents.

Air cargo will help us increase our exports. (On Monday), 60 tons of medicinal plants will leave for India and after this, five flights will go to India from Kabul and Kandahar per week, said Tawfiq Davari, ACCIs financial deputy head.

Afghan businessmen and traders welcomed the initiative and said the air corridor will increase trade volumes between Afghanistan and other countries. They also said India is a lucrative market for them, especially for fresh and dried fruits.

The cost of air transit to Delhi and Amritsar is cheap and goods can be transferred from these cities to countries around the world, traders were quoted as saying by Tolo News.

We have (made) the necessary preparations. We have built a cold room and a small packaging factory to pack the fruit properly. Also there are refrigerated vehicles, said Nejabat Haidari, head of Fresh Fruits Union.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan embassy in Kabul said in a statement on Monday that Pakistan too intends to open a transit route for Afghan exports.

A number of economic analysts said with the continued border closures between Pakistan and Afghanistan, traders cannot count on Pakistans move, Tolo News reported.
Islamic State fighters defended their remaining stronghold in the Old City of Mosul, moving stealthily along narrow back alleys and slipping from house to house through holes in walls as US-backed Iraqi forces slowly advanced.

The intensity of fighting was lower than on Sunday, when Iraqi forces announced the start of the assault on the Old City, a Reuters visuals team reported from near the frontlines.

The historic district, and a tiny area to its north, are the only parts of the city still under the militants control. Mosul used to be the Iraqi capital of the group, also known as Islamic State.

This is the final chapter of the offensive to take Mosul, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, senior commander in Mosul of Counter Terrorism Service.

The militants are moving house to house through holes knocked through inner walls, to avoid air surveillance, said Major-General Sami al-Arithi of the Counter Terrorism Service, the elite units spearheading the fighting north of the Old City.

Now the fighting is going on from house to house inside narrow alleys and this is not an easy task, he told state TV.

The Iraqi army estimates the number of Islamic State fighters at no more than 300, down from nearly 6,000 in the city when the battle of Mosul started on October 17.

Iraqi forces take a position on the roof of a building as they advance towards Mosul's Old City on June 18, 2017. (AFP Photo)

More than 100,000 civilians are trapped in the densely-populated maze of narrow alleyways making up the Old City, with little food, water or medical treatment.

An estimated 50,000 children are in grave danger as the fighting in Mosul enters what is likely to be its deadliest phase yet, Save the Children said Sunday night in a statement.

Caliphate nears end

The US-led international coalition is providing air and ground support to the campaign.

The fall of Mosul would, in effect, mark the end of the Iraqi half of the caliphate that Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared in a speech from a mosque in the Old City three years ago and which once covered swathes of Iraq and Syria.

Map of Mosul locating Iraqi army advances towards the Old City, the Islamic State group's last urban stronghold in the country. (AFP Photo)

The Iraqi government initially hoped to take Mosul by the end of 2016, but the campaign took longer as militants reinforced positions in civilian areas to fight back.

Islamic State is using suicide car and motorbike bombs, booby traps and sniper and mortar fire against the troops.

Hundreds of civilians fleeing the Old City have been killed in the past three weeks, as Iraqi forces could not fully secure exit corridors.

Islamic State snipers are shooting at families trying to flee on foot or by boat across the Tigris River, as part of a tactic to keep civilians as human shields, according to the United Nations.

The militants are also retreating in Syria, mainly in the face of a US-backed Kurdish-led coalition. Its capital there, Raqqa, is under siege.

Baghdadi has left the fighting in Mosul and Raqqa to field commanders, becoming effectively a fugitive in the border area between Iraq and Syria.

Iraqi forces hold a position inside a damaged building as troops advance towards Mosul's Old City. (AFP)

About 850,000 people, more than a third of the pre-war population of the northern Iraqi city, have fled, seeking refuge with friends and relatives or in camps, according to aid groups.

Iraqs Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi headed on Monday to Saudi Arabia, the first leg of a Middle East tour that will also include Iran and Kuwait, in a diplomatic effort to foster regional reconciliation and coordination against terrorism, his office said.

Abadis visit to Saudi Arabia aims to promote reconciliation between the Sunni Muslim kingdom and majority Shiite Iraq and to help heal deep and bitter divisions between Iraqs Shiites and its Sunni Muslim minority.
As Canada marks the 150th year of its confederation, an Indo-Canadian non-profit is seeking to brings its own touch to the national celebration by hosting the largest gathering of yoga enthusiasts at a single venue in North America.

The event, scheduled for June 24 at the International Center in Mississauga, a suburb of Toronto, is being organised by International Yoga Day Canada (IYDC) and will also segue into the third iteration of the International Day of Yoga-related activities across the world.

The organisers expect to attract nearly 10,000 participants to the meet, making it the largest congregation of yoga practitioners in North America, and possibly the biggest outside India.

As part of the effort, the IYDC event will feature two headliners - Baba Ramdev, founder of Patanjali Yogpeeth, and Sister Shivani of the Brahma Kumaris - to lead the two sessions that will comprise the schedule for the day.

Satish Thakkar, chair of IYDCs board of directors, said, The 2017 International Yoga Day celebrations are coinciding with Canadas 150th birthday. Through our program, we want to take the benefits of yoga to all Canadians to promote wellness and build a healthier and happier Canadian society.

This is unique since the topmost yoga institutions have decided to come together under one umbrella for this event, said Dinesh Bhatia, Indias consul general in Toronto.

Indias consul general in Toronto, Dinesh Bhatia, speaks at a function announcing the event related to the International Day of Yoga celebrations in Canada. (HT Photo)

Among these are Patanjali Yogpeeth, the Art of Living, BKS Iyengar Yoga, Isha Foundation, Brahma Kumaris, Sivananda Yoga and others. We wanted to create a platform where all institutions can participate together, Thakkar, who is president of the Toronto-based company Excelsior Financial Group, said.

Four cities in the Greater Toronto Area, Brampton, Markham, Milton and Richmond Hill, are partnering with IYDC.

Response to the planned programme has been heartening for the organisers since they had to close online registrations because the numbers were exceeding the capacity at the venue. The event will also be broadcast live on an Indo-Canadian channel and streamed online.

International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga, Bhatia said.

The quick uptake of the public invitation to participate in the event is no surprise since Canada is a country where its Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, is known for his striking yoga asanas while the countrys capital Ottawa is promoting Yoga on the Hill among the highlights of the summer of celebration as the 150th anniversary approaches on July 1.

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France voted a record number of women into parliament on Sunday, thanks largely to President Emmanuel Macrons decision to field a gender-balanced candidate list for his victorious Republic on the Move (LREM) party.

As of late Sunday evening there were 156 women lawmakers elected to Frances National Assembly, already more than ever before, and with 148 seats as yet undecided.

Catherine Barbaroux, LREMs acting president, hailed the increase of womens share of parliamentary seats.

For the first time under the Fifth Republic, the National Assembly will be deeply renewed - more diverse, younger, she said. But above all, allow me to rejoice, because this is a historic event for the representation of women in the National Assembly.

Female parliamentary representation has increased steadily in France in recent years, with the 2012 elections seeing a record 155 women26.9% percentvoted in, up from 18.5% in the 2007 elections and 12.3% in 2002.

Yet although France has a system in which funding for political parties is restricted if women do not make up at least 49% of its parliamentary candidates, most parties still put up more men for election.

Even where women are put up for election, they tend to be in constituencies where they are unlikely to win, keeping the numbers of women who make it to the Palais-Bourbon low.

En Marche...proactively decided to give winning seats to women, said 34-year-old Brune Poirson, who beat the FN to be elected to parliament in the Vaucluse district in southeastern France. This is a really bold move.

Normally political parties allocate women seats that are almost impossible to win, so they can say hey, we have as many female candidates as male, but at the end of the day they never end up winning, added Poirson, who has no prior parliamentary experience but has masters degrees in political science from both Harvard and the London School of Economics.

Poirson decided to become a candidate in January when Macron sent a video to party members urging more women to put themselves forward.

(Macron)... said: this is your responsibility as well - we need you. It was very powerful, and it really worked, she told Reuters.

LONG WAY TO GO

A macho culture in the upper echelons of power has characterised French politics in the past, but there have been signs in recent times that the veil is lifting on acts that would previously have gone unreported.

Last year Denis Baupin resigned as vice-president of the National Assembly after being accused of sexual harassment by fellow politicians. Shortly after that, the then finance minister Michel Sapin admitted to behaving inappropriately toward a female journalist.

33-year-old Laurianne Rossi, a former assistant to a Socialist senator who was elected to Hauts-de-Seine, on the Western outskirts of Paris, said even with the increase in female lawmakers, it would take time to make a real difference.

There is still a long way to go before we get real equality between women and men in France...(but) the arrival of so many more women at the National Assembly will really help, she said.

Frances Scott, founder of Britains 50:50 Parliament, a cross-party group campaigning for gender balance in parliament, said the number of women elected would spur parties in other countries to field more female candidates. Britain set its own record in elections on June 8, with 30% of parliamentary seats going to women.

It looks like France is leading the way in terms of this democratic imperative, said Scott. The evidence suggests that having more women in parliament leads to more informed and more responsive decision-making. It leads to a better parliament.
India on Monday urged members of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) grouping to condemn all forms of terror and not divide terrorists into good or bad ones.

They are terrorists, they are criminals and we need to have concerted actions both regionally and internationally to curb their activities, minister of state for external affairs VK Singh said.

Terrorism, he said, remains one of the most potent global menaces that threatens international peace and cannot be differentiated between good or bad.

Singh made the remarks while interacting with the media after the first stand-alone BRICS foreign ministers meet, being held in Beijing ahead of the 9th summit of the grouping in Xiamen city of Fujian province. He reiterated Indias call for expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations.

We have the support of all the BRICS countries (on this), Singh said, adding there is a strong consensus among BRICS nations that all forms of terrorism must be condemned.

China, the current chair of BRICS, was quick to join India in condemning terror.

China opposes terror in all forms. China is also victim of terror and China is taking part in global initiatives against terror. With colleagues today including Indian colleagues, China shares the same position, foreign minister Wang Yi said while responding to a question from Hindustan Times on terror and differences on the issue within the bloc.

Both countries, at least publicly, seemed to play down differences on what India calls cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.

Singhs comments came days after China said it was opposed to double standards in fighting terror ahead of the BRICS ministers meeting.

On counter-terrorism we have a clear cut position that terrorism is the common enemy of mankind. We oppose any double standard adopted by countries in counter-terrorism efforts, foreign ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said on Friday.

New Delhi was expected to flag the issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, and particularly the case of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar who has been accused of masterminding attacks in India, at the meet.

Beijing has repeatedly blocked New Delhis efforts to get the Jaish-e-Mohammed chief added to a UN list of proscribed terrorists, saying there isnt enough evidence against him.

Mondays meeting was chaired by foreign minister Wang. His counterparts from Russia (Sergey Lavrov), South Africa (Maite Nkoana-Mashabane) and Brazil (Aloysio Nunes) attended the meet.

After the meeting and the press interaction, all five ministers called on President Xi Jinping.

Earlier in the day, Singh said besides cooperating on financial issues, the BRICS agenda had witnessed steady expansion.

The BRICS joint working group on counter-terrorism concluded its meeting in May 2017. Our national security advisors are scheduled to meet next month. In the (New) Delhi meeting last year, they had reached significant understating to enhance cooperation in security and counter-terrorism matters, Singh said.

At a bilateral meeting Singh on Sunday, Wang said India and China are major countries with great influence and they should boost cooperation in BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to contribute to peace and stability in the region and the world.
Irans Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.

It was the first missile attack by Iran outside its own territory in 30 years, since the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-88, media in the Islamic republic reported.

It came hours after supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a statement on his website, vowed Iran would slap its enemies in honour of the victims families, including those killed in Syria and Iraq.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called terror bases.

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were in retaliation for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS.

Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed, the statement said.

It said the attack targeted a command base.... of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor, Syrias oil-rich eastern province.

Iranian television showed footage of the missiles being launched into the night sky.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, had also vowed to avenge the attacks.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was promoting terrorist groups in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of volunteer fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syrias conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
Irelands first Indian-origin Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on Monday met his UK counterpart Theresa May for bilateral talks during his first visit to 10 Downing Street amid political uncertainty in Britain.

The Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) said Ireland was not in favour of an economic border between the two countries following Brexit.

While there will be a political border between our two countries, there should not be an economic one and any border that does exist should be invisible, Varadkar, the first openly gay prime minister of Ireland, said following his talks with May.

He also offered condolences on behalf of the Irish people and the Irish government to all those affected by the recent tragedies in London.

Everyone in Ireland knows someone, a friend or a relative, who lives in London. When there is an attack on London, we in Ireland feel it is almost an attack on us as well, Varadkar said.

May also expressed the hope that Britains exit from the European Union (EU) would not impact relations with EU-member country Ireland.

No one wants to see trade between our two countries diminished. I remain committed to finding a practical solution to the land border in Northern Ireland after Brexit, she said.

In one of his first major bilateral visits, the Irish Taoiseach said he had also been very reassured about the Conservative partys proposed agreement with Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and its feared impact on the impartiality of the British and Irish governments in the region.

In a joint press conference at Downing Street, he said as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, the British and Irish governments should not be too close to unionism or nationalism.

The ruling Tories need the backing of the 10 DUP MPs to form its minority government following a hung Parliament verdict in the June 8 snap general election.

I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom, Varadkar said today prior to his first visit to Downing Street.

Among other things, we will discuss Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved government and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens on trade and the economy, said Varadkar, an Indian-origin doctor and the Dublin-born son of Mumbai-born Ashok Varadkar and Irish mother Miriam.

There has been political uncertainty in the UK as some media reports claimed that May has 10 days to save her job as some of her party lawmakers are secretly plotting her ouster.

After her flawed decision to call a snap general election saw the Conservatives lose their narrow majority earlier this month, May has now come under fire for her lacklustre response to the Grenfell Tower fire disaster.
British police said it was too early to say whether a death near a mosque in north London on Monday was due to an attack by a van driver who ploughed into worshippers.

The attack unfolded as a man was already receiving first aid at the scene, sadly that man has died, Neil Basu, senior national co-ordinator for counter-terrorism policing, said.

Any causative link between his death and the attack will form part of the investigation. It is too early to say if his death was as a result of this attack.

Basu also said it was too early to say what the motive of the attacker might have been was but that the incident had all the hallmarks of a terrorist attack and that all the victims were Muslim.

He said no other suspects had been identified and that the police had seen no evidence of an earlier reported knife attack at the scene.
A van ploughed into worshippers leaving a London mosque on Monday, killing at least one person and injuring 10 others in what witnesses said was a deliberate attack on Muslims.

The incident was being treated as a potential terrorist attack said Prime Minister Theresa May, which if confirmed would make it the fourth since March in Britain and the third to involve a vehicle deliberately driven at pedestrians.

Shortly after midnight, the hired vehicle swerved into a group of people leaving prayers at the Finsbury Park Mosque, one of the biggest in the country, witnesses said. The attack comes during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

This big van just came and went all over us, witness Abdulrahman Saleh Alamoudi told BuzzFeed News. He (the driver) was screaming... Im going to kill all Muslims.

Police said one man was pronounced dead at the scene and the van driver, aged 48, had been detained by members of the public before being arrested. The driver would undergo a mental health assessment, police said.

Eight people were taken to hospital and two were treated at the scene. Usain Ali, 28, who was near the mosque at the time, said he heard a bang and ran for his life.

When I looked back, I thought it was a car accident, but people were shouting, screaming and I realised this was a man choosing to terrorise people who are praying, he told Reuters. He chose exactly the time that people pray, and the mosque is too small and full, so some pray outside.

Attacks, political turmoil

The attack comes at a time of political turmoil in Britain, as Prime Minister May, weakened by the loss of her parliamentary majority in a June 8 election, plunges into divorce talks with the European Union.

She has faced heavy criticism for her response to a fire in a London tower block last Wednesday which killed at least 58 people, and for her record on security after a series of attacks blamed on Islamist militants in recent months.

All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene, May said, adding that she would chair an emergency response meeting later on Monday.

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said extra police had been deployed to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan, describing the attack as an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

Police officers man a cordon at Finsbury Park where a vehicle struck pedestrians in London on Monday. (AP)

The leader of the opposition Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, in whose constituency the attack took place, said he was totally shocked.

The incident comes just over two weeks after three Islamist militants drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and stabbed people at nearby restaurants and bars, killing eight. .

It also follows a suicide bombing at a pop concert in Manchester, northern England, in May which killed 22, while in March, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a policeman to death before being shot dead. His attack killed five people.

Police had said hate crimes had risen after the London Bridge attack and they had stepped up their visible presence at places of worship.

The Muslim Council of Britain said Mondays attack was the most violent manifestation of Islamophobia in Britain in recent months and called for extra security at places of worship.

It appears that a white man in a van intentionally ploughed into a group of worshippers who were already tending to someone who had been taken ill, the council said in a statement.

Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park neighbourhood of North London. (REUTERS)

He targeted Muslims

The incident occurred almost exactly a year since the murder of lawmaker Jo Cox who was shot dead by a man obsessed with Nazis and extreme right-wing ideology. There had been a number of events over the weekend to commemorate her life.

We must all continue to stand together, resolute, against all those who try to divide us and spread hate and fear, said British interior minister Amber Rudd.

Police said they were called just after 12:20 a.m. (2320 GMT Sunday) to reports of a collision on Seven Sisters Road, which runs through the Finsbury Park area of north London.

From the window, I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching, a lot of chaos outside ... Everybody was shouting: A vans hit people, a vans hit people, one woman who lives opposite the scene told the BBC.

One witness told CNN it was clear that the attacker at Finsbury Park had deliberately targeted Muslims.

He tried to kill a lot of people so obviously its a terrorist attack. He targeted Muslims this time, the witness, identified only as Rayan, said.

Other witnesses told Sky television that the van had hit at least 10 people. The Evening Standard newspaper said the van appeared to have been rented in Wales, although there was no immediate confirmation of this from the authorities.

Miqdaad Versi, assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said the van had deliberately swerved into a group of people who were helping a man who was ill and had fallen to the ground.

Basically, a van swerved into them deliberately, Versi told Reuters, citing a witness.

He said the driver had run out of the van but a group of people caught him and held him until police arrived.

The Finsbury Park Mosque gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was sentenced to life in a U.S. prison in January 2015 after being convicted of terrorism-related charges.

A new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Abu Hamza was arrested by British police, since when attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosques website.

Members of the congregation in the two mosques in the area are mainly from North and West Africa.

Series of attacks

Eight people were killed and 50 injured on June 3 when three Islamist militants drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and stabbed people at nearby restaurants and bars.

On March 22, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a policeman to death before being shot dead. His attack killed five people.

On May 22, a suicide bomber killed 22 people at a concert by American pop singer Ariana Grande in Manchester in northern England.

The attacks were a factor in campaigning ahead of the June 8 election, with May criticised for overseeing a drop of 20,000 in the number of police officers in England and Wales as interior minister from 2010 to 2016.
Scotland Yard on Monday confirmed at least 79 people perished in last weeks blaze in west London but said it may not be possible to identify all the dead due to the intensity of the fire in the wealthy Kensington and Chelsea borough.

The blaze not only raised a series of questions about levels of inequality in London and British society, but also singed politics after Prime Minister Theresa May was barracked for her allegedly cold response to the tragedy.

The number of the dead may change as investigations progress, police said.

Separate inquiries have been ordered by the police and government, as the media published images on Monday of the charred remains inside the 24-storey Grenfell Tower. Several people remained in hospitals.

Kensington and Chelsea ranks among the wealthiest boroughs in the UK, but also includes pockets that are among the most deprived, including the area around the tower.

Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has called for homes to be " requisitioned if necessary to house those left homeless by the disaster: It is hardly acceptable that in London you have luxury buildings and luxury flats kept empty, as land banks for the future, while the homeless and the poor look for somewhere to live.

Members of emergency services work inside the burnt out remains of the Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, London, on June 18, 2017. (Reuters)

Official data suggests the Kensington and Chelsea borough has more empty properties than any other borough in London, numbering nearly 1,400 properties classified as long-term vacant or empty for more than six months.

Gavin Barwell, former housing minister and now Mays chief of staff after losing the recent election, came under focus for alleged inaction on an inquiry report into a similar fire in London. Labour MP David Lammy alleged the incident amounted to corporate manslaughter.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince William visited the disaster site, which was compared to the visit of May, who confined herself to speaking to police and fire brigade officials and not the victims. May later met victims in Downing Street and announced a relief package.

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President Emmanuel Macrons year-old Republic on the Move party (LREM) won a huge parliamentary majority that boasts scores of lawmakers never before elected - unprecedented in France and central to his promise to clean up the countrys politics.

Opponents had urged voters not to allow so much power to be concentrated in the hands of one party and warned Macrons lawmakers would serve simply as an army of godillots, or yes men. Macron says they reflect French society.

Here are some of his candidates who are newcomers to national politics and won seats.

HERVE BERVILLE, ECONOMIST

Herve Berville, 27, is a Rwandan-born economist who survived the east African countrys 1994 genocide and was adopted by a French family in Brittany, western France.

Herve Berville (NYT)

The London School of Economics masters graduate with an easy smile will break the mould in a national assembly long dominated by white men. Berville won 64% of the vote, trouncing his conservative rival.

The challenges that await us are immense. Our country needs a clear majority so that the government can act, Berville appealed in one Facebook posting ahead of the second round.

MOUNIR MAHJOUBI, TECH ENTREPRENEUR

In his run for parliament, Mounir Mahjoubi, the 33-year-old son of Moroccan immigrants, saw off Socialist Party chief Jean-Christophe Cambadelis, who had held Paris working class 19 arrondissement seat for two decades.

Mounir Mahjoubi holds his ID at a polling station during the second round of the French parliamentary elections (elections legislatives in French) on June 18, 2017 in Paris. (AFP)

Weeks ago Mahjoubi was an unknown in France. Now he is the youngest member of Macrons government, the computer whizzkid who shaped Macrons digital campaign and helped counter a massive hacking attack days before the presidential election.

The tech entrepreneurs reward: the job of junior minister for digital affairs.

Were younger, were campaigning differently, we are what France looks like, Mahjoubi told Reuters as he canvassed support ahead of the June 11 first round.

CEDRIC VILLANI, MATHEMATICIAN

With his shoulder-length hair, colourful ascot ties and spider brooches, Cedric Villani, a prize-winning mathematician is among the most recognisable faces on the campaign trail.

In 2010 he won the maths equivalent to the Nobel prize, the Fields Medal, for what the award called proofs of nonlinear Landau damping and convergence to equilibrium of the Boltzmann equation.

Cedric Villani, French mathematician and "La Republique En Marche" party candidate for parliamentary elections (elections legislatives in French) posing during a photo session in Paris. (AFP File Photo)

His more digestible work Birth of a Theorem: a mathematical adventure, is a journey through his unproductive lulls and late-night breakthroughs on the path to discovery. He entitled an online lecture Why is maths so sexy.

Villani won 47.46% in the first round, falling just short of the threshold to win his constituency without a run-off. In the second round, he trounced his conservative opponent with nearly 70% of the vote.

BRUNE POIRSON, ACADEMIC HIGH-FLYER

Brune Poirson, 34, was elected in the Vaucluse county in southeastern France, beating the Front Nationals Herve de Lepinau by 421 votes in a stronghold for the far-right party. Marion Marechal-Le Pen, the niece of party leader Marine Le Pen and granddaughter of its founder, previously held the seat.

Brune Poirson attends a campaign meeting on June 14, 2017, in Carpentras, southern France. (AFP)

Poirson, who has a masters degrees in political science from both Harvard and the London School of Economics, and previously worked as an adviser on corporate social responsibility, said she decided to become a candidate for LREM after seeing a video Macron sent to party members in January urging more women to put themselves forward as candidates.

AURORE BERGE, LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIAL

Thirty-year old Aurore Berge switched from the conservative The Republicans party to Macrons LREM party earlier this year. She had been part of ex-prime minister Alain Juppes campaign team during his failed bid to become the conservative candidate for the presidential election.

Berge came under fire from past allies during the campaign for jumping ship.

But, in a sign of how much loyalties and labels are blurred in a fast-changing political landscape, Juppe backed her election bid, even though they are now in rival camps.

Berge, who has served as a local elected official in the same area west of Paris, was in the spotlight in May last year when she denounced sexist comments from fellow local councillors.
Malian security forces have killed five militants involved in an attack on a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates outside Malis capital Bamako, the security minister said on Monday.

Unidentified gunmen attacked the resort, Le Campement Kangaba on Sunday, killing two of the guests. Security forces have rescued 36 residents, including 13 French citizens.

This was without doubt a terrorist attack, Security Minister Salif Traore told Radio France International. The anti-terrorist forces arrived on the scene immediately afterwards. Five terrorists were killed ... The operations continued throughout the night.

Traore said the militants had some accomplices who had not been killed or detained. On Sunday night, authorities reported that two of the assailants had been killed.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

French troops and a 10,000-strong UN peacekeeping force have been battling to stabilise Mali, a former French colony, ever since France intervened in 2013 to push back jihadists and allied Tuareg rebels who had taken over the countrys desert north a year earlier.

Al Qaeda in the Islamic Magreb and other Islamist groups have claimed attacks on Western targets in Mali and the wider West Africa region in the past.

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after the attack and pledged Frances full support for the country, Macrons office said on Monday.

One of the resort guests killed by the gunmen was a French-Gabonese citizen, while the other has not yet been identified.
Frances far-right leader Marine Le Pen won a seat in parliament for the first time on Sunday, but it was a bittersweet victory that masked an electoral debacle for her National Front (FN) party.

The feisty 48-year-old, who lost by a 20-point margin to Emmanuel Macron in Mays presidential run-off, won handily in her northern fiefdom of Henin-Beaumont, a depressed former mining town, with 58% of the vote, she announced.

But her anti-EU, anti-immigration FN failed to capitalise on the populist wave that helped propel Donald Trump to the US presidency and spurred Britains vote to leave the European Union.

Le Pens party won 8 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, dashing her one-time hopes of emerging as the main opposition to Macrons centrist Republic on the Move (REM) party.

Le Pen said nevertheless that the FN, against a bloc that represents the interests of the oligarchy, are the only force of resistance.

REM and its centrist ally MoDem swept to a large majority with 351 seats.

Low turnout

Le Pen, like radical left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon, said record low turnout at around 44% cast doubt on REMs legitimacy.

In late April, after Le Pen qualified to face off with Macron, Bruno Jeanbart of the OpinionWay polling institute said the FN could hope to win between 20 and 50 seats.

But by falling short of 15 seats in the end, the FN will be too small to form a parliamentary group which would have given it a role in setting the parliamentary agenda as well as influential committee positions.

In the presidential election, Le Pen won more than 50% of votes in her head-to-head with Macron in 45 voting districts and drew a total of 10.7 million votes, a historic high for the far-right party.

The FN has two lawmakers in the outgoing parliament, one of whom will not return.

Le Pens 27-year-old niece Marion Marechal-Le Pen, a darling of the FN and the face of its traditional Catholic base, shocked grassroots supporters by announcing her decision not to seek re-election.

Marechal-Le Pen announced the decision just two days after her aunt lost to Macron.

The other incumbent, Gillard Collard, won by just 123 votes over a former bullfighter, Marie Sara, one of dozens of new MPs in the REM party with no prior political experience.

Senior FN figure Florian Philippot, the architect of the FNs policies to scrap the euro common currency, lost in the former industrial area of Moselle in eastern France.

Le Pen was seen as a shoo-in for the Henin-Beaumont seat after scoring 46% in the first round a week ago against 11 rivals, and she defeated a political novice from Macrons party, Anne Roquet.

Scandalous

Le Pen fought for the same seat in 2012, losing by 118 votes to the Socialist Philippe Kemel, who was eliminated this year in the first round of the parliamentary election last Sunday.

Le Pen complained last weekend that the record low first-round turnout raised questions over Frances two-round first-past-the-post system that favours larger parties.

On Sunday she said it was scandalous that the FN could not have a group in parliament.

In 1986, under a proportional representation system, the FN, then led by her father Jean-Marie Le Pen, won 35 seats.

The FN leader will now have to abandon her seat in the European Parliament, where her party is under several investigations in alleged funding scandals.

Le Pen and the FN were seen as likely to benefit this year from a confluence of factors including the 2015 migrant crisis and the string of jihadist attacks that have hit France.

The party has a particular populist appeal in Frances northern rustbelt, which is dotted with shutdown factories and mines.

Le Pen was roundly criticised for a poor performance in a brutal TV debate with Macron days before the presidential runoff that probably cost her votes.

Le Pen has spent the past six years since taking charge of the FN trying to expunge the xenophobic, anti-Semitic ethos engendered by her father, who co-founded the party in 1972.

Under Marine Le Pen, the FN has consistently improved its electoral scores, notching up records in past regional, European Parliament and presidential elections.
Bakhsheesh Elahi was waiting for the morning bus when a lone gunman on a motorcycle pulled up beside him and shot him dead. Rana Tanveer had just taken his family to safety after radical Islamists spray-painted death threats on his door, when a car smashed into his motorcycle and sped away.

Taha Siddiqui answered his phone to hear a menacing voice from a government agency telling him he needed to come in for questioning, without saying why.

The three men are journalists in Pakistan, considered one of the most dangerous places in the world for this profession. But even by Pakistans standards, things have gotten worse, according to journalists, Pakistani and international human rights activists, and advocacy groups.

In addition to attacks from militants or criminals, Pakistani journalists are also facing threats from government agencies or the military itself.

Journalists are not threatened from one side alone, they are threatened by drug mafia, they are threatened by political gangs. They are also threatened by religious extremists, said Asma Jehangir, a human rights lawyer and the director of Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. They are threatened by the military. They are also threatened by people who are deeply (involved) in corruption, but when it comes to the extremist elements, governments are very reluctant to move because they themselves are afraid of them.

Elahi, a determined investigative reporter in northwestern Pakistans Haripur, is just the latest example. The father of five, including a daughter born just 20 days earlier, was killed on June 11 while waiting for a bus a few hundred meters from his home.

Local journalists turned Elahis funeral into a protest, carrying his body through the streets and stopping traffic to demand that the killers be brought to justice, according to Zakir Hussain Tandi, president of the Haripur Press Club.

But impunity and a lack of prosecution has characterised many of the attacks on journalists in Pakistan. Elahi, who was bureau chief of an Urdu language newspaper and sister television station, was the fourth journalist killed in Haripur district in the last three years. All but one of the murders has gone unsolved.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) says 60 journalists and 10 media workers have been killed in Pakistan since 1992.

Elahis Facebook page featured his relentless reporting against political corruption. One of the countrys largest television news channels to feature one of his stories.

We think his death is probably related to journalism, said Tandi of the press club. Lots of people didnt like his investigations, the drug mafia, corrupt politicians, car thieves. He wrote about them all.

Pakistani journalists and social media activists have been detained, often by intelligence agencies, tortured according to some who were released, and threatened with blasphemy charges, which carry the death penalty and routinely incite mobs of radical extremists to violence.

Last week, a social media activist was sentenced to death for allegedly posting an item deemed insulting to Islam.

That sentence sends a threatening message to all ... causing fear and leading to self-censorship, Steven Butler, Asia director of the CPJ, said in an email. Its clear that authorities  including investigative authorities, prosecutors, and the military  are keeping a close eye on journalists and ready to act when red lines are crossed.

Last month, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan ordered a crackdown on those ridiculing the Pakistan Army on social media (to protect) the prestige, reputation and goodwill of the armed forces.

On May 18, Taha Siddiqui, Pakistans correspondent for France 24 TV, received a threatening call from someone claiming to represent the counter-terrorism wing of the Federal Investigation Agency , ordering him to come in for questioning. Siddiqui, who is also bureau chief of the World Is One News website, is an outspoken critic of Pakistans military and intelligence agencies.

My work is in the public domain, Siddiqui asked. What does counter-terrorism have to do with journalism, with free speech?

Siddiqui phoned colleagues for advice and stopped answering his door. He eventually spoke to Jehangir, the human rights lawyer, who advised him to file a petition demanding to know why he was being investigated. Siddiqui, who didnt go in for questioning, has already made at least one court appearance and was told by the FIA that he was being investigated because of his critical stories about the military.

On May 30, Rana Tanveer, a correspondent for the English-language daily newspaper, The Express Tribune, found death threats spray painted on his home in eastern Lahore saying he would die for writing stories about the plight of minorities in Pakistan  particularly Ahmedis, reviled by mainstream Muslims who label them as heretics because they believe in a messiah who arrived after the Prophet Muhammad.

Pakistan has officially declared them non-Muslims, making it a crime for Ahmedis to identify themselves as Muslims. Dozens are facing charges.

That was shocking for me, said Tanveer who went to the police, which didnt register a case but instead advised him against filing a formal complaint, saying it would enrage the radicals who had threatened him.

Tanveer has received several such threats over the years; even his landlord had been warned against renting to him because of his coverage of religious minorities

On June 9, Tanveer was riding his motorcycle after meeting a colleague from the Pakistan Union of Journalists to decide how to deal with the threats when a speeding car slammed into him and sent him crashing to the pavement. He suffered a fractured leg and believes it was no accident.

Today, he is in hiding with his family, unprotected by police and unsure when he can return to his job.

Jehangir said she believes the government crackdown is being done at least partially at the behest of Pakistans military.

They think that the image of Pakistan is being destroyed by the word getting out of here, she said. Now, if you stop picking up people, stop torturing people, the image will improve, but dont shoot the messenger.
A car burst into flames after it crashed into a police van on the Champs Elysees avenue in Paris on Monday, police and investigators said, adding that the driver was armed and it appeared to be a deliberate act.

Interior ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said police had pulled the driver out of the flaming vehicle and he was very likely dead.

Police had said earlier that the driver of the Renault Megane was seriously injured and on the ground... unconscious.

No police or bystanders were injured in the incident near the Grand Palais exhibition hall.

Apparently, its a deliberate act, a source close to the investigation said.

Incident unfolding at Champs Elysees in Paris, as heavily armed police arrest man. pic.twitter.com/3J1or8JsZW  Josh Caplan (@joshdcaplan) June 19, 2017

Anti-terrorism prosecutors have opened an investigation.

Police have closed two of the metro stations on the Champs-Elysees, a major tourist draw in the French capital.

The incident came just two months after a policeman was shot and killed on the world-renowned avenue, three days before the first round of Frances presidential election.

A note praising the Islamic State group was found next to the body of the gunman, Karim Cheurfi, in that incident.

Police later found other weapons in Cheurfis car including a shotgun and knives.

String of attacks

The incident on Monday was the latest in a string of attacks in London and Paris.

Two weeks ago jihadists used a van and knives to crush and kill eight people enjoying a night out in the British capital. Three of the victims were French.

Four days later, a hammer-wielding Algerian man was shot and wounded by police after he struck an officer on the head in front of Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.

In a video found at his home, he had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.

In London on Monday, a van ploughed into a crowd of Muslims near a London mosque early on Monday, leaving one person dead and injuring 10 others in the second terror attack this month in the British capital.

France is still under a state of emergency imposed after the November 2015 attacks in Paris, when Islamic State jihadists killed 130 people in a night of carnage at venues across the city.

Previous major attacks targeted the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine in January 2015 and in November that year, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked venues around Paris including the Bataclan concert hall, killing 130 people in all.
Russia said on Monday it would treat US-led coalition aircraft flying west of the river Euphrates in Syria as potential targets and track them with missile systems and military aircraft, but stopped short of saying it would shoot them down.

In a move that will fan tensions between Washington and Moscow, Russia made clear it was changing its military posture in response to the US downing of a Syrian military jet on Sunday, something Damascus said was the first such incident since the start of the countrys conflict in 2011.

The Russian defence ministry said it was also scrapping a Syrian air safety agreement with the US designed to avoid collisions and dangerous incidents with immediate effect. Moscow accused Washington of failing to honour the pact by not informing it of the decision to shoot down the Syrian plane despite Russian aircraft being airborne at the same time.

We view such actions by the US command as a deliberate flouting of its obligations, the defence ministry said in a statement. It said it expected the United States to now undertake an investigation into the shoot-down, to share the results, and to take corrective measures.

Russia is one of Syrian President Bashar al-Assads most stalwart allies and is supporting him militarily with air power, advisers and special forces as he tries to roll back Islamic State and other militant groups. Unlike the United States, it says its presence is sanctioned by the Syrian government.

Calling the shooting-down a cynical violation of Syrias sovereignty and a breach of international law, Russia said the US move amounted to military aggression against Syria and announced it was taking direct measures in response.

In areas where Russian aircraft are carrying out military tasks in the skies above Syria, any flying objects, including international coalition aircraft and drones found operating west of the river Euphrates, will be tracked by Russian land and air-based anti-aircraft ground systems as targets, the ministry statement said.

The US Central Command issued a statement saying the downed Syrian military jet had been dropping bombs near US-backed SDF forces, which are seeking to oust Islamic State from the city of Raqqa.

It said the shooting-down was collective self-defence and the coalition had contacted Russian counterparts by telephone via an established de-confliction line to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing.

Franz Klintsevich, a senior lawmaker on the upper house of parliaments defence and security committee, told RIA news agency that Russia would not automatically shoot down any object and that decisions would be taken on a case-by-case basis. He said aggressive acts by such objects would be dealt with severely, however.

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov was cited earlier on Monday by Russian news agencies as telling the US to respect Syrias territorial integrity and refrain from further unilateral action there.

Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov struck a tougher line than Lavrov, telling TASS the US action was an act of aggression in support of terrorists. Separately, Ryabkov told Interfax the shooting-down was a dangerous escalation and warned Washington not to use force against Syrian government troops.
The Saudi Navy has captured three members of Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from a boat seized last week as it approached the kingdoms offshore Marjan oilfield, the Saudi information ministry said on Monday.

Relations between the two countries are at their worst in years, with each accusing the other of subverting regional security and support opposite sides in conflicts in Syria, Yemen and Iraq.

This was one of three vessels which were intercepted by Saudi forces. It was captured with the three men on board, the other two escaped, a statement from the ministrys center for international communications said.

The three captured members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard are now being questioned by Saudi authorities, it said, citing a Saudi official.

The vessel, seized last Friday, was carrying explosives and intended to conduct a terrorist act in Saudi territorial waters, it said.

An earlier report from the Saudi Press Agency said the Saudi Navy had fired warning shots at the two boats that managed to escape.

Irans Tasnim news agency said on Saturday that Saudi border guards had opened fire on an Iranian fishing boat in the Gulf on Friday, killing a fisherman. It said the boat was one of two Iranian boats fishing in the Gulf that had been pushed off course by waves.

Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia have steadily deteriorated. On June 5, Riyadh and other Arab governments severed ties with Qatar, citing its support of Iran as a reason.

Days later, suicide bombings and shootings in Tehran killed at least 17 people. Shia Muslim Iran repeated accusations that Saudi Arabia funds Sunni Islamist militants, including Islamic State. Riyadh has denied involvement in the attacks.
A year after its historic vote, Britain on Monday finally opened negotiations with the other 27 European Union nations about leaving the bloc, with the final outcome, due in 2019, as globally important as it now seems unpredictable.

The two chief negotiators, Michel Barnier of the EU and David Davis from Britain, immediately set off to find common ground in their working relationship, an important touchstone to see how amicable the biggest political divorce in decades will become.

Our objective is clear. We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, centering on citizens living on each others territory, border arrangements between Ireland and the United Kingdom and the amount that Britain stands to pay to get out of its previous EU commitments, Barnier said.

Davis said he was looking for a positive and constructive tone to deal with the myriad issues dividing both sides.

While the EU negotiating team led by Barnier has been ready for months, British efforts on Brexit stalled even after it triggered the two-year process on March 29. An early election this month, in which British Prime Minister Theresa May lost her Conservative majority in parliament, only added to the problems.

Our big problem is that we have no picture, no idea at all, what the British want, said German Manfred Weber, the head of the EPP Christian Democrat group in the European Parliament. The other EU countries have a united position, but the British are in chaos, Weber added.

Mays government said it was confident it can achieve a bold and ambitious deal that will work in the interest of the whole UK

The EU said it was also looking for a good compromise. Austrian foreign minister Sebastian Kurz said: If we dont succeed, both sides will lose.

Davis and Barnier have one key issue over the first weeks of talks: building trust after months of haggling over leaks and figures over the final bill that Britain would have to pay for leaving.

Time is pressing. After Britains June 23, 2016 referendum to leave the bloc, the other 27 nations wanted to start the exit talks as soon as possible so they could work on their own futures, but Britain long seemed dazed by its own momentous move.

And even when May finally triggered the two-year unraveling process on March 29, she followed it up by calling an early election on June 8 that she hoped would strengthen her majority in parliament and thus her negotiating mandate with the EU. The move backfired, May lost her Conservative majority in the vote and has been fending off critics of her leadership ever since. The election left an image of a dysfunctional Britain coming up against a well-oiled EU negotiating machine.

Still, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson remained upbeat Monday and thinks that the Brexit negotiations will yield a happy resolution that can be done with profit and honor for both sides.

Johnson urged Europeans to look at the more distant future.

The most important thing for us is to look to the horizon, raise our eyes to the horizon. In the long run, this will be good for the UK and good for the rest of Europe, Johnson said at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
The agenda of the BRICS group of nations has expanded over the years to include counter-terrorism, and security officials from member countries reached a significant understanding on the issue last year, minister of state for external affairs VK Singh said on Monday.

In his opening statement ahead of the first BRICS foreign ministers meet, Singh said top security officials from all the member countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) were scheduled to meet in July to take forward the discussions held by the joint working group on counter-terrorism last month.

Besides cooperating on financial issues, the BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion. The BRICS joint working group on counter-terrorism concluded its meeting in May 2017. Our national security advisors are scheduled to meet next month. In the (New) Delhi meeting last year, they had reached a significant understanding on enhancing cooperation in security and counter-terrorism, Singh said.

Singh made these comments days after China said it was opposed to double standards in fighting terrorism ahead of the first BRICS foreign ministers meeting. On counter-terrorism, we have a clear-cut position that terrorism is the common enemy of humankind. We oppose any double standards adopted by countries in counter-terrorism efforts, Lu Kang, foreign ministry spokesperson, had stated on Friday.

Lu said five foreign ministers will conduct a candid exchange of views on terrorism. His previous comments and Singhs mention of counter-terrorism indicate that the issue will be in sharp focus during the meeting between the five foreign ministers.

New Delhi is expected to flag the issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan  particularly in the case of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar allegedly masterminding terror attacks in India  at the meeting. China has repeatedly blocked New Delhis efforts to get Jaish chief Masood Azhar added to a UN list of proscribed terrorists, stating that there isnt enough evidence against him.

Besides Singh, Mondays meeting  chaired by Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi  will also have his counterparts from Russia (Sergey Lavrov), South Africa (Maite Nkoana-Mashabane) and Brazil (Aloysio Nunes) in attendance.

India attaches great importance to BRICS, said Singh. We continue to work closely with all our partners in the spirit of mutual trust, respect and transparency to further enhance and strengthen our bonds.

The minister also spoke on Indias efforts to promote BRICS as a brand among member states. During our chairmanship in 2016, India tried to consolidate BRICS as a brand by involving our cities and masses in the BRICS process. We paid special attention to enhancing intra-BRICS collaboration and strengthening people-to-people exchanges. We are very happy to see that the process is being carried forward under Chinas able chairmanship, Singh said.

The foreign ministers meeting is being held in the run-up to the 9th BRICS summit, to be held in the Chinese city of Xiamen in September.
Senior White House adviser Jared Kushner is headed for Israel and Palestine later this week in the first major follow-up to President Donald Trumps recent trip to the region and to discuss priorities and next steps in the search for a peace formula that has eluded every recent US administration.

Kushner, embroiled in an escalating Russia controversy like his father-in-law, is expected to meet Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem and Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas, the White House told The Wall Street Journal, which first reported the story.

Kushner, who has been called Trumps secretary for everything because of the multiplicity of tasks and responsibilities heaped on him, has no expertise in the matter or contacts in the region - necessary qualifications for presidential emissaries before him - other than close personal ties to Netanyahu.

Skepticism remains about his ability to do much. The White House has sought to tamp down expectations about his upcoming visit.

Its important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time, and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr Kushner and Mr Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region, a White House official told the Journal, referencing Jason Greenblatt, Trumps top adviser on Israel and Palestine.

The visit will afford Kushner a chance to get away from the Russia controversy that has cast a shadow on the White House and on him personally, with reports suggesting special counsel Robert Mueller is looking into his business and financial dealings in connection with his contacts with Russians,

Trump, his father-in-law, has been under investigation for obstruction of justice  for allegedly trying to stop the FBI probe into his former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn  by his own admission, which a lawyer from his legal team has disputed in a string of TV interviews.
President Donald Trump will meet with the chief executives of technology companies including Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc on Monday as the White House looks to the private sector for help in cutting government waste and improving services.

White House officials said on a conference call on Friday that the administration believed there was an economic opportunity to save up to $1 trillion over 10 years by significantly cutting government information technology costs, reducing government costs through improved IT, leveraging government buying power and cutting fraud across government agencies.

The meeting with nearly 20 chief executives comes as the White House pushes to shrink government, cut federal employees and eliminate regulations. Many business executives are eager to work with the new administration as they face numerous regulatory and other policy issues.

In May, Trump created an American Technology Council, the latest in a series of efforts to modernise the US government. He signed a separate order in March to overhaul the federal government and tapped son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner to lead a White House Office of American Innovation to leverage business ideas and potentially privatise some government functions.

Others planning to attend include Alphabet Inc Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Chairman John Doerr and the chief executives of Microsoft Corp IBM Corp, Mastercard Inc, Intel Corp, Qualcomm Inc, Oracle Corp and Adobe Systems Inc, a White House official said on Sunday.

In May, Trump asked lawmakers to cut $3.6 trillion in government spending over the next decade, taking aim at healthcare and food assistance programs for the poor in a budget that also boosted spending on defense.

A 2016 US Government Accountability Office report estimated the US government spent more than $80 billion in IT annually, excluding classified operations. In 2015, there were at least 7,000 separate IT investments by the US government and some agencies were using systems that had components at least 50 years old.

Chris Liddell, a White House official who directs the American Technology Council and is a former Microsoft and General Motors Co chief financial officer, said on Friday the Trump administration aimed to improve government services to at least the level of the private sector.

VISA PROGRAM

The tech CEOs and White House also plan to discuss Trumps review announced in April of the US visa program for bringing high-skilled foreign workers into the country.

More than a dozen Trump administration officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Kushner and Liddell will hold group sessions with the chief executives before they jointly meet with Trump.

The council also seeks to boost the cyber security of US government IT systems and wants to learn from private-sector practices. In 2015, hackers exposed the personal information of 22 million people from US government databases.

In a document outlining the working-group sessions, the White House said the federal government should require making it easy for agencies to use the cloud.

The White House thinks it can take lessons from credit card companies in significantly reducing fraud. A 2016 government audit found that in Medicaid alone, there was $29 billion in fraud in a single year.

Following Trumps June 1 decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accords, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk and Walt Disney CEO Robert Iger stepped down from White House advisory panels. White House officials said the dispute had little impact and that they had to turn away tech leaders from Mondays event because of lack of space.
Turkish troops have arrived in Doha to take part in joint training exercises, Qatars defence ministry said on Monday, at a time of high tension in the Gulf.

The first joint drills took place on Sunday at Tariq bin Ziyad military camp in Doha, the ministry said in a statement carried by the official news agency.

The exercises aim to raise Qatari and Turkish fighting efficiency amid plans for joint operations to fight extremism and terrorism, as well as peacekeeping operations before and after military operations, said the statement in Arabic.

The drills had been planned for some time, the statement added.

They are taking place as a diplomatic crisis in the Gulf enters its third week.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and other countries have cut ties with Qatar over accusations the emirate supports extremism.

Doha denies the accusations and says measures imposed on Qatar by its Gulf neighbours amount to a blockade.

Turkey is one of Qatars strongest allies.

Earlier this month, Ankara fast-tracked a separate agreement to allow troops to be deployed at Turkeys military base in Qatar.

It has also increased food supplies to Qatar after the emirates land border was closed.

Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has been one of the figures trying to forge a diplomatic solution to the crisis. And Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed the economic and political isolation of Qatar as inhumane and un-Islamic.

Last year, Qatars Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani was the first foreign leader to phone Erdogan after a failed coup in Turkey.

Last week, Qatars navy carried out three days of joint training exercises with the US Navy.
At least two Pakistan Navy officers were killed and three others injured on Monday when unidentified motorcycle-borne militants opened fire on their vehicle in the restive southwestern Balochistan province.

The officers were carrying Iftar items from Jiwani town when their vehicle came under attack from four gunmen in the Gwadar district.

Four armed men on two motorcycles attacked the Naval vehicle and opened indiscriminate firing on it, a Baluchistan government official said.

He said six naval officers were in the vehicle when it was fired upon.

One of them died on the spot while five others were rushed to Karachi for treatment. One of them expired later on, he said.

A spokesman for Pakistan Navy said the three Naval personnel were injured in the attack.

Security was tightened after the incident and a search operation was launched in the area to apprehend those involved in the attack.

Baluchistan Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri condemned the incident and directed the police to submit a report about the terror incident.

We will not bow down before the terrorists, Zehri said in his statement.

No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack on the officers but Baloch nationalists and Islamist militants often target the security forces in the province.

The incident comes just few days after the ISIS claimed that it had killed two Chinese nationals, a man and woman, who had been kidnapped on May 24th from Jinnah town in Quetta.

Gwadar port and Baluchistan remain an integral part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and both countries have agreed to boost security for the people, including Chinese nationals, working on different projects under the USD 50 billion project.

Earlier in May, unidentified gunmen on motorcycles opened fire on labourers working on a road in Gwadars Pishgin area.
Qatars diplomatic isolation could last years, a United Arab Emirates minister said Monday, accusing the Gulf state of supporting jihadists.

We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate, state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists during a visit to Paris.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain broke off relations with Qatar two weeks ago and have closed land and sea borders and imposed severe restrictions on airspace.

The minister said Qatars rivals were betting on time, but said a solution could not be brokered until it abandoned its support for extremist Islamists.

They have built a sophisticated podium for jihadism and Islamic extremism, we have a golden opportunity to break this support, the minister said.

He called for countries like the United States, France, Germany and Britain to help monitor any agreement reached with Qatar to ensure they are not cooperating with jihadists. They have the diplomatic clout and technical know-how, the minister added.

The crisis has raised major concerns over instability in the region.
The US Navy confirmed on Monday that all seven missing sailors on the USS Fitzgerald were found dead in flooded berthing compartments after the destroyers collision with a container ship off Japan over the weekend.

The USS Fitzgerald and a Philippine-flagged container ship collided south of Tokyo Bay early on Saturday. The cause of the collision in clear weather is not known.

A significant portion of the crew was asleep when the collision occurred, tearing a gash under the warships waterline and flooding two berthing compartments, the radio room and the auxiliary machine room.

A large dent was clearly visible in its right mid-section as the destroyer limped back to Yokosuka naval base south of Tokyo, home of the Seventh fleet, on Saturday evening.

The US Navy on Monday identified the dead sailors as: Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia; Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California; Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut; Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas; Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California; Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland; and Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio.

Two of three injured crew members who were evacuated from the ship by helicopter, including the ships commanding officer, Commander Bryce Benson, were released from the US Naval Hospital in Yokosuka, the US Navys Seventh Fleet said on its Facebook page on Monday. The last sailor remained in hospital and no details were given about his condition.

Multiple US and Japanese investigations are under way on how a ship as large as the container could collide with the smaller warship in clear weather.

Shipping data in Thomson Reuters Eikon shows that the ACX Crystal, chartered by Japans Nippon Yusen KK, made a complete u-turn between 12:58 a.m. and 0246 a.m. local time on June 17. (15:58 GMT and 17:46 GMT on June 16).

Vice Adm. Joseph P Aucoin, the Seventh Fleet commander, was asked on Sunday if damage on the starboard side indicated the US ship could have been at fault, but he declined to speculate on the cause of the collision. Maritime rules suggest vessels are supposed to give way to ships on their starboard.

Japanese authorities were looking into the possibility of endangerment of traffic caused by professional negligence, Japanese media reported, but it was not clear whether that might apply to either or both of the vessels.

Japanese chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga said the Japanese government was investigating with the cooperation of the US side and every effort would be made to maintain regional deterrence in the face of North Korea, which has recently conducted a series of missile tests.

It is extremely important to maintain US deterrence in the light of an increasingly severe regional security situation, he told a news conference.

We will maintain close contact with international society, including the United States and South Korea, to maintain vigilance and protect the safety of our people.

The incident has sparked as many as three investigations by the US Navy and US Coastguard, and two by Japanese authorities.

Complicating the probes could be issues of which side has jurisdiction and access to data such as radar records that the United States could deem as classified.

Although the collision occurred in Japanese waters, under a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) that defines the scope of the US militarys authority in Japan, the US Navy could claim it has the authority to lead the investigations.

The ship is salvageable, Aucoin said, but repairs will likely take months. Hopefully less than a year. You will see the USS Fitzgerald back, Aucoin said.

This incident was the greatest loss of life on a US Navy vessel since the USS Cole was bombed in Yemens Aden harbour in 2000, when 17 sailors were killed and 39 injured.

Naval historians recall possibly the last time a warship was hit by a larger vessel in peacetime was in 1964 off the coast of Australias New South Wales. The HMAS Melbourne, an aircraft carrier, collided with the destroyer HMAS Voyager, shearing the much smaller vessel in half and killing 82 of the Voyagers crew.
Tensions are escalating in Syria after the American military shot down a Syrian combat jet for the first time and Russia announced, in retaliation, that it will treat all flying objects from the US-led coalition as targets in some parts of the strife-torn West Asian nation.

Moscow has said it is suspending a military hotline  called the deconfliction line  established with the US in 2015, weeks after Russia entered Syria in support of the government of Bashar al-Assad, its strongest ally in the region. The hotline was set up to avoid in-air collisions.

This is the second time Moscow suspended the hotline in recent months. The first was in March and it followed punitive missile strikes ordered by US President Donald Trump on a airbase used by the Syrian Air Force to carry out an alleged chemical attack on a rebel-held city.

Adding to the new escalation of hostilities in the region was a statement from Tehran that it had launched multiple missiles against Islamic State-held positions in eastern Syria in retaliation for the terrorist attacks carried out by the group on Irans parliament and a Shia shrine on June 7 in which 16 people were killed.

The Russian announcements came in response to the downing of the Syrian Air Force plane, which was the first time for the US after it began fighting the IS in Syria, leading a coalition of international forces, in 2014.

All flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, detected west of the Euphrates, will be followed by Russian air defence systems as targets, the Russian defence ministry said in a statement in Moscow.

It added: The US' repeated combat operations under the guise of combating terrorism' against the legitimate armed forces of a UN member-state are a flagrant violation of international law, in addition to being actual military aggression against the Syrian Arab Republic.

The US-led Operation Inherent Resolve, as it is called, said on Sunday that its aircraft first conducted a show of force in support of fighters of the rebel Syrian Democratic Force (SDF), which had come under attack from Syrian government forces earlier in the day in Ja'Din town, south of Tabqah.

Using the deconfliction line, the US asked Russia to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing.

Later on Sunday evening, a Syrian Air Force plane, a Russian-made Su-22, dropped bombs near SDF fighters in Tabqah and, the coalition said, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces, (the Syrian plane) was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet.
A US fighter jet shot down a Syrian regime plane on Sunday after it dropped bombs on American-backed forces fighting the Islamic State group in northern Syria, the US-led coalition said.

The incident came as a monitoring group reported the first ground fighting between Syrian regime troops and the US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters.

At 6:43 pm (1743 GMT), a Syrian regime SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) fighters south of Tabqah and, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of Coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a US F/A-18E Super Hornet, the Combined Joint Task Force said in a statement.

It said that two hours earlier, forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad attacked SDF fighters in the town of JaDin south of Tabqah, wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town.

Coalition aircraft then stopped the pro-regime forces initial advance with a show of force, the coalition added.

The Combined Joint Task Force stressed that the coalitions mission is to defeat IS.

The Coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend Coalition or partner forces from any threat, it said.

The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward Coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated.

Following the downing of the Syrian plane, clashes between regime troops and coalition-backed fighters broke out in two villages some 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of the city of Raqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.
The former President of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Marion Coy says that the political centre in Ireland must now examine how it presents itself in the current "politics of fear".

Ms Coy, the Chair of the political think tank Collins Institute, was speaking at their inaugural conference, entitled 'Populism: The Response from the Centre', which took place at Trinity College during the weekend.

The former third level chief of GMIT said: We have an Elvis Presley politics of now or never and increasingly we find ourselves confronted by people like May and Trump saying 'pick me- there is no alternative.'"

She added: "We dont subscribe to this politics of fear and this creation of a sense of ongoing crisis and we want to try and contest that here in Ireland and make sure that we consider alternatives.

The question for us in this country is are we too in a politics of fear, and we believe there is a need to have a look at how the centre presents itself in a world that is dominated by this philosophy.

Ms Coy continued: One of the characteristics of populism is this creation of a sense of urgency and crisis, so regardless of what country youre looking at- France, the UK, Hungary, Turkey, Greece and Ireland- there is a sense that time is speeding up and that the unexpected is always awaiting us.

In Ireland we tend to hear the same voices all the time, so for our conference this weekend we have set out to find alternative voices to emphasise the notion that there are a multiplicity of ways of looking at issues and ideas.

Speakers at the event included Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure & Reform, Paschal Donohoe and David Goodhart, commentator and author who predicted Brexit. He is the founder and former editor of Prospect Magazine and also the author of bestseller 'The Road to Somewhere' on populism.

The Institute, a political think tank, says the conference was an opportunity to consider some of the features of social, political, economic and cultural life that have given rise to our increasingly unpredictable political milieu.
James Lafayette was photographer to the Royals, and some of the figures here wouldve had their portraits taken here, National Wax Museum Plus owner Patrick Dunning explains to a crowd of nodding media types.

Hot Press biggest kids are in the writers room of the iconic Lafayette building that sits between DOlier Street and Westmoreland Street, where we have a view looking straight up OConnell Street thatll be even more iconic once the Luas works are finally complete.

Sharing the space are Brendan Behan, Patrick Kavanagh and Oscar Wilde - in waxwork form, having survived the move from the museums old premises on College Green. Mimosas in hand, we toast the brand-new gaff - an iconic, central spot for a museum full of icons central to Irish history.
The good news just keeps on flowing for Irish film and TV directors, with the word that Listowels Gerard Barrett has done a deal with FX and Fox for a new TV drama.

Irish film-making was again at the centre of a good news story today, when it was confirmed that Listowel-born writer and director Gerard Barrett has sold his hour-long drama Honey to FX and Fox.

The story, which is still in development, is set in the world of corporate espionage.

Barrett is one of the most exciting young talents in Irish cinema in years. At just 29 years of age, he already has a strong of achievements to his name. A graduate of Tralee IT, where he studied Film, TV and Media, he was a mere stripling of 25 when he won the coveted Rising Star Award at the 10th Irish Film & Television Awards, for his 2012 debut, Pilgrim Hill. The follow-up Glassland (2014) starred Jack Reynor and Toni Colette.

Speaking about the deal with FX and Fox, he said: "Im beyond excited and honoured to work with the most talented and ambitious people in television drama. Look at the shows FX have produced recently, Fargo, The Americans and Sons Of Anarchy to name but a few.

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"I cant wait to go on this journey with FX and bring Honey to life in a bold and ambitious manner with the collaboration of their incredible creative and productions teams."

Barretts other films include Brain on Fire (2015), which was shot in New York City and Canada. Based on the book of same name, it starred Chloe Grace Moretz and Charlize Theron.

He wrote a three-part television mini-series Smalltown which starred Pat Shortt and was broadcast by TV3, in September 2016.
Houston lawyers are filing suit against the federal government on behalf of three American girls whose father is about to be deported.

The lawsuit will challenge Juan Rodriguezs deportation on the grounds of religious freedom, with an argument that hasnt been attempted previously in the context of immigration, according to the lawyers, who are partners at Chamberlain Hrdlicka and supported by the Hispanic Bar Association.

The action will be announced at a press conference this morning.

Juan Vasquez, one of three lawyers who have voluntarily come to the familys aid, said the lawsuit will center on the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, passed by Congress in 1993. That act was upheld, and applied, by the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of Burwell vs. Hobby Lobby, where the chain successfully claimed that it could not be forced by the Affordable Care Act to provide birth control to its employees.

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The claim in the Rodriguez case will be that deporting Juan would violate the familys right to practice their religion.

The Rodriguezes are Adventist Christians, and their religion says, we have to stay together because we are a reflection of the holy family, and we have to look to each other to learn about God and to practice our religion as a family, according to David Calvillo, another lawyer representing the family.

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If Juan is deported, Calvillo said, the family would be forced to follow him, in line with their religion. It would be a religious, de facto deportation of U.S citizen children, he said.

The lawsuit also will claim that the family is being denied due process, as defined under the 5th Amendment of the Constitution.

Four American citizens, including Juans wife, Celia, should not be forced into a war zone by sending Juan to El Salvador through an arbitrary and capricious exercise of judgment at the federal level, Calvillo said.

Juan Rodriguez had been checking in with immigration officials for years and was allowed to stay in the country under prosecutorial discretion. But in February, he was informed that the rules had changed under new president Donald Trump and that he would be deported on June 29.

In a separate legal action, Juans attorney plans to file a petition on his behalf seeking asylum.

The family's struggle has been the focus of an ongoing series in the Chronicle.
ATLANTA - A harrowing dog attack aboard a Delta Air Lines jet in Atlanta has put a spotlight on the federal law requiring airlines to accommodate emotional support animals.

After traveler Marlin Jackson was mauled by a fellow passenger's lab mix during boarding of a June 3 Delta flight to San Diego, the U.S. Department of Transportation said it wants more information on the incident. The agency also said it is reviewing input from a committee that last year discussed changing rules for emotional support animals on planes.

Most concerns have involved suspicions that some travelers game the system, bringing regular pets aboard for free and saying they are emotional support animals.

"These days everybody's saying their dog is an emotional support dog. ... It's being very abused," said Alpharetta, Ga., dog trainer Susie Aga, who works with support dogs as well as regular pets. "It's really sad for people who really need emotional support dogs."

Ross Massey, an attorney for Jackson, said the Delta incident adds a serious safety concern to the debate.

"You have two completely legitimate public interests," said Massey, of Birmingham, Ala., firm Alexander Shunnarah & Associates.

There's "the public interest for people who need support animals to have the support animals. But the other 99 percent of paying customers on that plane have a legitimate public interest as well to know that if they are seated next to a large unrestrained animal, that they can at least feel safe that that animal is trained."

Jackson, of Daphne, Ala., was attacked as he took a window seat next to another traveler, identified in a police report as Ronald Kevin Mundy Jr. The report said Mundy was a military service member with the Marine Corps who "advised that the dog was issued to him for support."

According to Massey, Mundy was in the middle seat with the dog in his lap as Jackson edged past them to the window seat. After Jackson was seated the dog lunged twice at his face, inflicting deep bite wounds, the lawyer said.

Jackson was taken by ambulance to a hospital and needed 28 stitches, and the flight was delayed. The dog was allowed to take a later flight with Mundy - but in a kennel in the cargo hold.

Efforts to reach Mundy, who wasn't charged, have not been successful. Delta won't comment on what documentation Mundy presented.

But in some ways, airlines' hands are tied: The federal Air Carrier Access Act requires airlines to accommodate emotional support animals, which are lumped into the broader category of service animals.

Letter from a pro

Airlines are not allowed to require documentation showing a service or emotional support animal has been trained, according to the DOT. In the case of support animals, they are only allowed to require a letter from a licensed mental health professional asserting a need.

Websites like therapypet.org offer such a letter after a "chat" with one of their licensed therapists, with the pitch: "No More Unfair Airline Fees" and "Therapy Pet helps people get the proper documentation to make their pet an official Emotional Support Animal."

The website says ESAs can "Help in Many Ways: Feel Better, Sleep Better, Feel More Confident, Better Overall Well-being, Feel More Comfortable, Increased Self-Esteem."

Massey said he believes airlines should still be able to require proof of training or a temperament test because the law says airlines must accept animals except when "the animal would pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others."

Flying with a regular pet is typically expensive or difficult. Delta is among the airlines that charge $250 round trip for a pet to travel in the cabin, for example, and most carriers restrict the transport of pets as cargo.

Since 2003, the DOT's definition for service dogs covered by the Air Carrier Access Act has included both those with specific purposes such as helping a blind person and emotional support animals. According to the DOT, "an animal used for emotional support need not have specific training for that function but must be trained to behave appropriately in a public setting."

Comforting presence

While psychiatric service animals are trained for tasks like sensing when the owner will have an anxiety attack and taking action to lessen the effect, an emotional support animal can be a dog or cat whose mere presence is comforting.

Emotional support animals, however, are not recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which allows people to bring service dogs into public places like restaurants and stores.

Massey said there's still room for airline measures to assure safety. "There are a lot of ingredients you could put in place to prevent attacks," he said, including restricting where the dog and its owner sit or how big the animal is.

But according to the DOT, airlines are not allowed to require that emotional support animals be transported in a carrier "unless there is a safety-related reason to do so."

For a dog, it "can be very stressful to get on an airplane," said Aga, the dog trainer. "They're crammed in there and there's a person right next to them ... and then being defenseless being held in a lap."

"It's not an excuse but it's a little bit of an explanation," Aga said. To acclimate a dog to such conditions requires training, she said, "slowly inducing stressful situations, doing a systematic desensitization of being in close proximity."

Airlines also cannot require that emotional support or service animals wear a muzzle "unless the carrier determines one is necessary to prevent a direct threat to the health or safety of others," according to the DOT.

Brad Morris, of Psychiatric Service Dog Partners, a nonprofit that advocates for service dog users, sat on the DOT advisory committee last year. He said muzzles can be problematic because they "tend to stress animals" and dogs can get out of muzzles. "It gives this illusion of safety," he said.

'Appropriate definition'

The DOT formed the committee as part of a process to determine "the appropriate definition of a service animal" and to establish "safeguards to reduce the likelihood that passengers" can use the designation to bypass fees and restrictions for regular pets.

Airlines advocated to eliminate emotional support animals from the Air Carrier Access Act, in part because of the operational issues they create for flight crews and gate agents. Delta in its comments to the agency said: "Due to recent attempts by customers to bring animals onboard flights with suspect service potential, there is a need for clear guidance" from the DOT on these topics.

The issue splits disability advocates. Some question lumping emotional support animals with service animals. Others aim to protect the privacy and rights of disabled passengers to travel with emotional support animals.

"Where the struggle comes in is if you have one or two sensationalized reports, then is that enough for us to put what may be undue burdens in the face of people with disability who genuinely need accommodations?" Morris said.

A proposal from disability advocates on the DOT committee favored requiring that passengers with service animals answer questions and attest "that these statements are true and I am aware that I am committing fraud if I knowingly make false statements here in order to secure federally regulated disability accommodations."

Some advocates, including Morris, said emotional support animals should travel in carriers, effectively limiting them to smaller animals.

But the exercise yielded no consensus, and the advisory committee on accessibility declined to make a recommendation on the issue in its final report.
The oil glut confounded economists and analysts once again last week as the energy markets driving Houston's economy crashed into dangerous territory - almost exactly three years from the beginning of the epic bust that crippled the U.S. oil industry.

The buyers and sellers who sent oil prices tumbling below $45 a barrel shrugged off rosier expectations that demand soon would leapfrog production for the first time since 2014. New data, however, showed global stockpiles of oil grew in April while hard evidence of a projected supply shortfall of 500,000 barrels a day failed to materialize - again.

For traders, it meant there was still no end in sight for a world awash in oil. "The market isn't happy," said Neil Atkinson, head of the oil markets division at the International Energy Agency, a consultancy group in Paris.

With Tuesday marking the third anniversary of oil's recent peak -- $107.26 a barrel -- and the beginning of the worst oil bust in a generation, the gyrating oil prices of the last several weeks are the result of two main forces: an oil glut that has drained more slowly than expected and a huge flow of money in and out of global markets that has exaggerated price movements. Even though analysts believe oil supplies will decline and prices rise if OPEC keeps its promises to cut production, traders aren't ready to believe that, worrying about stubbornly high U.S. fuel stockpiles and a gusher of oil from West Texas.

That pessimism, in the face of a broad consensus that global supply will match demand by the end of this month, may be overdone, analysts said, underscoring how oil prices have become decoupled from the flow of crude and more closely tied to the whims of speculators who have poured billions of dollars into the market this year.

For oil executives and analysts trying to figure out where prices will go next, the distortion has created a complex puzzle in which supply and demand pieces no longer fit neatly together, making it all but impossible to determine where exactly the market - and the fortunes of Houston's oil companies and energy workers - are headed.

At the moment, investors see a grim future. Speculators who bet on an oil rally in record numbers earlier this year are still recovering from a massive sell-off that began in March when it didn't materialize. The rout spurred a surge of bets against crude that added more downward pressure on prices as U.S. drilling rigs returned to the oil patch and OPEC's production cuts in the first three months of 2017 disappointed traders.

"People lost money," said Ed Morse, global head of commodities research at Citigroup, over a plate of eggs and bacon in Houston last week. "That's the main reason the market remains skeptical. These investors would normally be trying to ride a market that's rebalancing the way this one is."

More Information June swoon NYMEX closing oil prices around June 20 2013: $95.40 2014: $107.26 2015: $59.61* 2016: $49.37 2017: $44.20* Source: Energy Dept., Nymex *June 19 See More Collapse

Should be $55

If oil traded on fundamental market changes alone, and investor sentiment had no effect on the price, crude would fetch$55 a barrel today, and it would climb toward $60 a barrel by the end of the year as OPEC's cuts kicked in, diminishing the oversupply of oil, Morse said. At those levels, oil companies would begin investing more money into major oil projects and speed up drilling in U.S. shale plays.

Global oil demand will reach 97.3 million barrels a day in the second quarter, 500,000 barrels a day higher than global production, according to the International Energy Agency. And analysts believe the oil demand will exceed production for several months. It would be a big change from mid-2015, when output outstripped demand by as much as 2 million barrels a day.

Yet oil prices oil prices were significantly higher then, averaging nearly $60 a barrel in June 2015. Oil settled in New York Monday at $44.20 a barrel, a seven month low.

"I've quit trying to beat my against the wall to find consistent factors that drive the price," said Kyle Cooper, an analyst at Houston consulting group IAF Advisors. "They simply don't exist."

The disconnect in recent trading perhaps began in September, when OPEC initially announced its plans to trim production and oil prices surged as record amounts of money poured into the market. But that rally may have been premature.

Refiners and other buyers of oil reacted to the news by snatching up as much cheap crude as they could while Russia and the Saudi-led OPEC pumped an additional 1.5 million barrels a day into the market to supply it - almost the same amount they promised to cut. That oil was shipped into the market in the first three months of the year, and so the cuts didn't have much effect on supply levels until April, undercutting investor confidence and leading them to pull out quickly at any hint that the glut be lingering, analysts said.

These developments turned investors' eyes toward inventories even as evidence showed OPEC was following through on its production cuts, helping to make the fluctuating stockpiles of U.S. crude the most important barometer for prices recently. Increases in U.S. petroleum inventories spurred recent sell-offs in commodity markets.

Still, the amount of crude stored in tanks across the nation has dropped around 5 percent to 511.5 million barrels since April, according to the Energy Department. That's well above the average of 337.4 million stored barrels from 2010 to 2014, but it's a steady decline, despite the past two weeks in which U.S. fuel stocks rose.

West Texas wild card

One reason oil and gasoline stocks haven't shrunk as quickly as investors hoped is sluggish U.S. demand. The Energy Department forecasts that gasoline consumption will come in roughly flat over the summer, typically when driving peaks for the vacation season. Motorists are expected to consume 9.7 million barrels a day, roughly the same the same as last year, before dropping to 8.7 million barrels in January 2018.

Globally, gasoline demand growth has slowed, too. In the second quarter, demand rose 1.4 percent over the same period last year, but it marked the slowest second quarter growth since 2014. In China, the world's second-largest oil user after the United States, oil demand rose just 2.9 percent in the second quarter, far below its 8.2 percent growth in the second quarter of 2015, the IEA said.

"China's energy demand was growing at 8 to 10 percent a year, but last year it grew 1 percent," said Mark Finley, an economist and general manager of global energy markets at BP in Washington D.C. "There's clearly structural change happening in China, with less energy-intensive economic activity."

But the shifting Chinese economy may not be the biggest mystery for oil markets. Instead, the greatest unknown may be the resurgent U.S. shale oil industry.

The number of rigs drilling wells across the country has doubled since last year, but projections of U.S. oil production growth this year vary widely, anywhere from 600,000 to 1.2 million barrels a day. Since oil companies have only been drilling into shale rock for about a decade, it's still unclear how quickly they can boost output - there's just a lack of observable data and science to back up any assertion.

And it may take longer than many expect. Even in the prolific Permian Basin, the center of the new shale boom, drillers have been slowed by the congestion of hundreds of trucks hauling sand to the oil patch for hydraulic fracturing and a lack of equipment to continually recycle the millions of gallons of water used to bring wells into production. That has left more than 2,000 wells dormant in the region.

But unless oil prices bounce back quickly, the oil industry's drilling recovery will slow, as will the jobs flowing back into the oil patch.

"With oil at $45, there will be very little movement in capital globally, and fewer projects will get sanctioned," said David Pursell, an analyst at the investment bank Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. in Houston. "Is there a chance oil goes to $40? Sure."
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Ella Russell's early taste testers were at the Eldorado Ballroom. Her church used to hold services in the historic Third Ward building, and Russell gave out free sweets she'd baked to the congregation.

That passion has since blossomed into a business. Now, Russell is keeping her Third Ward roots by selling cookies, brownies and "stuffedcups" - a cupcake with a cookie baked inside - at Crumbville, TX, on the corner of Elgin and Emancipation Avenue.

"Cupcakes and cookies, they'll sell anywhere," she said. "But I feel like in this area, there aren't enough businesses owned by people who look like me."

Russell said the area used to be filled with innovative black business owners. But many of those businesses closed. She'd like to see a resurgence of companies that can keep money in the community.

Economic development is a focus of local officials, too, with new street signs designating the area as an economic corridor. Officials gathered under these signs on Monday to celebrate changing the street's name to Emancipation Avenue. The street was previously named for Confederate officer Richard "Dick" Dowling. It runs by Emancipation Park, which just completed its $33.6 million makeover.

"I'm excited for what's happening in our city," Mayor Sylvester Turner said Monday. "This is the dawn of new days."

RELATED: Council changes Dowling Street to Emancipation Avenue

Spurring economic development is among Third Ward officials' focus moving forward. They want to create entrepreneurs and small-business owners from the community to ensure residents aren't displaced by gentrification.

"We don't want to just attract the creative class," said Minister Robert Muhammad, vice chairman of the board for Houston Southeast. "We want to create the creative class from within."

Houston Southeast, the management district for a region encompassing the Third Ward, the Museum District and the Texas Medical Center, is placing "economic corridor" on the street signs of areas where it wants to promote economic activity, said Hina Musa, executive director for Houston Southeast.

More details will be released July 14, but Musa said the region's corridors will be Emancipation, Almeda, Blodgett, Scott, Old Spanish Trail and Griggs.

Houston Southeast has been hosting workshops called Invest in My Own Community, or IMOC. Some assist novices in investing or developing, while masters workshops are available by invitation only to experienced people who will receive assistance with plotting out properties that are good for development and investment.

Musa said Houston Southeast is also trying to start a microloan or grant program to improve the facades of businesses.

Muhammad said the group also would like to train youth in trades such as plumbing, carpentry and landscaping. Further out, he envisions a "Silicon Bayou" that brings robotics, artificial intelligence, coding and other technology jobs to the area.

Similarly, the Emancipation Economic Development Council and Project Row Houses announced in January that they received $460,000 from the Kinder Foundation. The money was earmarked for seven projects, including a wealth-building symposium, affordable-housing initiatives and a neighborhood cleanup team ahead of Emancipation Park's grand reopening.

RELATED: Community celebrates $33.6M makeover of Houston's Emancipation Park

Project Row Houses is a community-based arts and culture nonprofit group. Its Artist Rounds program opens houses for artists to display their work, and a recent round included small business owners. Russell, with Crumbville, teamed up with artist Anthony Suber to create an art installation that was a bakery popup shop. It was open for four months.

That was the first time Russell's business had a physical location. After the event, Project Row Houses asked Russell to join its business incubation program. She opened Crumbville, selling her E-dub-a-licious Treats, on Oct. 8.

Monday was special for Russell, 43. Being born in Galveston on Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the 1865 announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas, she was pleased to have a business across from Emancipation Park and the newly minted Emancipation Avenue.

"It means that I'm free to be a business owner," Russell said. "I'm free to be whatever I want to be. And I'm being it."
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DEL RIO  The state of Texas wants to stick a seismometer on Terry Hill's ranch, right next to his deer blind.

Hill, a fourth generation Texan born and raised in this Rio Grande outpost, understands the significance. He receives a few thousand dollars in oil and gas royalties a year, yet the findings of the earthquake sensor could dramatically alter the industry that helps pay his bills.

"I don't know what this is, or what it's gonna do," said Hill, 66, "but I hope it will be helpful."

Hill is among the landowners allowing the state to piece together one of the largest networks of seismometers in the United States with the aim of settling a debate that has wide implications for the future of fossil fuels. The network, stretching from New Mexico to Louisiana and Oklahoma to the Gulf, will collect data that may determine whether modern oil and gas production is responsible for an exponential rise in the number earthquakes in Texas and other energy producing states.

Scientists say it's clear there's a connection: Oil and gas operations pump billions of barrels of water deep into the earth every year, pressuring faults underground.

Politicians, industry leaders and officials of the Texas Railroad Commission, which regulates the oil and gas industry, have steadfastly argued that there is little proof, if any, of such a connection.

Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton called suggestions that oil and gas operations cause earthquakes "a bunch of suppositions, barely even hypotheses."

"The scientist in me hesitates to make any statements that sound conclusive until we have more tests and results to back these up," said Sitton, a mechanical engineer who founded the Pasadena-based oil and gas consultancy Pinnacle Advanced Reliability Technologies.

But nearly everyone agrees that getting those results is critical. Texas airports, hospitals and highways weren't built to withstand earthquakes. And if scientists find that oil and gas operations are indeed causing them, regulators could be forced to curtail key activities in the industry. Companies would have to adapt, at a cost of untold millions of dollars, with repercussions echoing into oil fields nationwide.

The state Legislature has appropriated $4.5 million, with the oil and gas industry contributing another $1.2 million to support research seeking to answer why tremors, which shook the state barely once a year for more than a century, now arrive by the dozens. Over the past 18 months, the Bureau of Economic Geology at the University of Texas, which is leading the project, has purchased equipment, hired staff, gathered industry experts, and charted a course for 55 additional seismometers, triple the number installed in Texas.

"The oil and gas companies realize that they need to be part of this solution," said Ellen Rathje, a civil engineering professor at UT and a principal researcher on the project. "They need to understand it better. Because there's a connection."

Several hurdles remain for the seismometer network dubbed TexNet. The Legislature hasn't funded the program beyond this year. Scientists will need unparalleled cooperation from industry and regulators to understand the findings. And UT scientists still need permission from a few dozen Texas ranchers and landowners to put seismometers on their property.

Hill, who agreed in January to take the seismometer, is happy to have it. TexNet will install the device in March, the 26th installation, with 29 left to go.

"Nobody owns the land," said Hill, sitting at a Dairy Queen in Del Rio. "We're just taking care of it for God."

Just a coincidence?

Late on the evening of Oct. 30, 2008, the first of 10 earthquakes hit Irving, just south of the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. They were relatively small, registering magnitudes between 2.5 and 3.0 on the Richter Scale, and did little damage. But they shook the region for more than a day, startled locals - the quakes were the first felt in the area in modern times - and ignited a public debate in Texas.

Oil and gas operations were on the verge of a transformation then. Companies had discovered horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, which pumps water into wells under such pressure that the shale bedrock fractures, releasing microscopic beads of oil and gas. U.S. oil production, which had dropped by nearly half over the previous two decades to less than 5 million barrels a day, began to rise again.

The Barnett oil field, surrounding Dallas, was ground zero. By the end of 2008, companies had drilled and fracked thousands of horizontal wells there.

In the days following those first quakes, oil and gas outfits fervently denied that the tremors had anything to do with operations.

Horizontal drilling and fracking spread across the state and country, almost doubling U.S. oil production and turning the country into a key global producer.

Meanwhile, Texas, which used to get one or two noticeable quakes - 3.0 and above - each year, has averaged 12 since 2008. In 2015, 22 roiled the state.

Scientists noticed that oil and gas companies were dumping more and more waste water underground each year. And that rise tracked remarkably close to the increase in earthquakes.

TexNet has identified four Texas areas with such a rise in seismic activity they merit deeper study. And each of those areas - around Dallas, the Central Texas city of Snyder, the West Texas city of Pecos, and south of San Antonio, in the Eagle Ford field - are hotbeds of oil and gas drilling.

'We can't prove it'

Fracking, despite its controversial reputation, isn't the chief culprit for most scientists. Wastewater worries them the most.

Oil and gas drilling produces an enormous amount of salt water. That water, trapped underground after the ancient oceans receded millions of years ago, is released during fracking operations, leaving companies with about 4 billion barrels of wastewater a year, according to one estimate.

Some companies recycle the water, but that's expensive. Most in Texas inject it into disposal wells designated and permitted as permanent underground holding tanks.

As water is injected underground, pressure increases. With enough time and water disposal, that pressure can reach nearby faults, pushing them to failure.

None of that is new.

"There has been widespread recognition among seismologists since the 1960s that wastewater injection and other activities commonly associated with petroleum production can sometimes induce earthquakes," wrote Cliff Frohlich, a seismologist and University of Texas researcher, in a journal last year.

What's new is the volume of water pumped underground. As U.S. oil production nearly doubled between 2007 and 2015 to 9.5 million barrels a day, the amount of waste water injected into Texas disposal wells rose 50 percent to 12 million barrels a day, according to data collected by the Railroad Commission and compiled by the research firm IHS Markit.

Some reject any widespread connection: "You've heard a lot about what's happening in Irving and Dallas," said Sitton, the Railroad Commissioner. "I think the odds of those earthquakes being caused by disposal wells are exceptionally small."

Frohlich's response: "We can't prove it. But the evidence is pretty strong."

For oil companies, it's a bottom-line issue. Wastewater injection can cost as little as 25 cents a barrel, if they operate their own disposal wells, not including transportation costs. Paying to recycle water can cost as much as $8 a barrel.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2 into law on June 22, 2015, establishing TexNet and authorizing UT's Bureau of Economic Geology - the state's official geological survey - to build the network, maintain it and figure out under what circumstances, exactly, disposal wells might cause quakes.

The old network, just 18 seismometers, couldn't pinpoint earthquake epicenters with much accuracy and couldn't say how close one quake was to one well.

TexNet should be up and running by middle of this year, with 73 stations, making it one of the biggest and best financed seismic monitoring systems in the country, behind such states as earthquake-prone California, which has 1,000 stations, and Nevada, with 150.

UT has asked the Legislature for $3.4 million for the next two years to continue research, a sum not included in the Senate's budget. Even if funded, TexNet scientists will have to prove more than correlation between disposal wells and earthquakes.

"If you don't have the right kind of information available, we call that speculation," said Dana Jurick, a geophysicist at the Houston oil company ConocoPhillips and a TexNet board member. "Scientific research requires data."

Six months ago, UT put a seismometer on Lee Eustace's land in Alvarado, about 30 miles southeast of Fort Worth. It's three feet underground, attached to a solar panel for power. It doesn't bother the cows, said Eustace - certainly not as much as the first earthquake he felt.

"I thought something had exploded somewhere," said Eustace, 74.

'Don't bounce back'

Parker County Commissioner Larry Walden, 59, said people blamed the earthquakes for darn near everything when they hit his county, west of Fort Worth. Cracks in houses. Cracks in foundations. Difficulty sleeping.

"There was a lady who said her hens had actually quit laying eggs because of the earthquakes," Walden said.

Walden found a spot for a seismometer on an old county-owned farm. Now it's mostly used by the local 4H club.

Christopher Ritzi was happy to help UT find a spot for a sensor in Alpine, near West Texas's Big Bend National Park. Ritzi, a biologist at Sul Ross State University, worries about drilling and pipelines, both expanding ever closer to the little town, which in the 1990s was hit by some of the biggest earthquakes in the state.

"Desert landscapes don't bounce back very well," he said. "We're playing with systems we don't fully understand."
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Significant changes are afoot that will alter the food focus at one of Houston's most lauded restaurants.

Five-year-old Underbelly, a national culinary destination thanks to James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd, is changing its menu to reflect a greater emphasis on seafood and vegetable dishes. It's a direction of notable importance, given that Underbelly has been known for its whole-animal program where cows (and pigs, goats) were broken down in the restaurant's butcher shop and beef cuts were prominently featured on the menu.

But Shepherd has been busy over the past year refocusing the story he's telling about Houston food. Earlier this year, he launched the ambitious One Fifth restaurant in Montrose, which will change its concept five times over five years.

And now comes the new focus for his signature restaurant. Shepherd says the whole-animal approach limits diversity. Beef, for example, took up a lot of space on the menu - an imbalance, he calls it - because all parts of the animal had to be used.

So starting Tuesday, Underbelly no longer will buy whole steers and the menu will reflect a greater emphasis on seafood and vegetables. And seafood not just from the Gulf, as the restaurant has traditionally used; Shepherd is now looking beyond the local waters to seek out fish from other American coasts. The new menu offers dishes such as ceviches, crudos, seafood towers, Vietnamese- and Thai-flavored fish, seared tuna and red snapper, and grilled Gulf fish.

"No one wants a giant beef shank in the middle of a hot Houston summer," Shepherd said. "But in the past, we've had to serve it because we had an entire cow in the butcher shop cooler. Our cooks want more variety, and frankly, so do our guests."

Underbelly will continue to serve beef as needed and continue to butcher whole pigs, goats, chicken and fish. It also will continue its charcuterie program. And those Korean braised goat dumplings that have become an Underbelly signature? They're staying on the menu.

But fish and vegetables are now front and center: fish from purveyors in waters from the Gulf up through Virginia, and vegetables from local farmers.

Meanwhile, there's another major development coming for Underbelly and its sister bar/restaurant next door, the Hay Merchant: cocktails.

Previously wine and beer only establishments - Underbelly built a significant wine program under wine director Matthew Pridgen, while owner Kevin Floyd championed a highly curated craft beer list at the Hay Merchant - both will soon serve spirits.

The Hay Merchant will offer cocktails beginning June 27; Underbelly's cocktail menu debuts July 10.

The move to full bars at both spots is part of a natural evolution for both Shepherd and Floyd. Floyd has been immersed in spirits as he's been building the cocktail program at One Fifth. And for several years now, Shepherd has been indulging in a personal passion for bourbon.

The cocktail programs for each will be executed by newly appointed spirits director Westin Galleymore, who most recently tended bar at One Fifth and spent two years at Anvil Bar & Refuge.

The cocktails at the Hay Merchant are designed to be "playful, easy and approachable," according to a release, and most of them will be on tap along with the place's multitude of craft beer.

At Underbelly, the cocktail offerings will be deeper and more dynamic.

"People are excited to dine here because they know they'll try something new every time," Galleymore said. "That's the way I want the cocktail menu to be - clean, well-sourced and ever-evolving."

Growlers will no longer be sold at the Hay Merchant, due to its new type of liquor license. Similarly, Underbelly no longer will be able to sell wine to go, or allow customers to BYOB.

Shepherd said he welcomes all the changes because they continue to tell new stories about the way Houston eats (and drinks).

"I've always said that the only thing consistent about Underbelly is change," he said. "And this is just one more example of change."
Oprah Winfrey guides you into her office and, after a welcoming hug (Winfrey's a hugger, but you probably already knew that), she immediately anticipates where your eye is going to land first.

Over in the corner, overlooking her Oprah Winfrey Network studio lot, there's artist Whitfield Lovell's "Having," a charcoal-on-wood panel image of two African-American women that has three wood boxes of pennies placed in front of it.

"These women were early entrepreneurs," Winfrey says. "I looked at this every day from my desk in Chicago to remind me and inspire me that, yes, it can be done."

The spacious West Hollywood office contains scores of Emmys (not all of them), shelves and shelves of books, many dotted with framed photos of Winfrey with the likes of former President Barack Obama and Nelson Mandela. Everything here has a story, and Winfrey, a consummate teller of tales, her own and others', will happily share them with gusto.

"You see that photograph of me and Madiba over there?" Winfrey says, pointing to a picture of her and Mandela, telling of the time she went to South Africa to help AIDS-stricken children for a project called Christmas Kindness. Once there, Winfrey, her hair braided, waited with a town mayor for Mandela to arrive via helicopter.

"I am so excited," the mayor told her. "Nelson Mandela is coming and he's bringing Oprah Winfrey from America." Winfrey looked at him, confused. "I'm already here," she told him. "I'm Oprah."

The mayor looked at her. "You? You look like a girl from the village. Where is the Oprah we know?"

Winfrey laughs, but it's not enough to stir her beloved cocker spaniel, Sadie, sprawled out on the sofa next to her. It's a good story. And, of course, for Winfrey it's not just a story but a lesson because Winfrey finds lessons everywhere, and she absorbs them and then passes them on because she loves, to use a word she adores, "pontificating."

The town mayor's lesson: Rise for the moment. Give people the Oprah they know.

Over a long, discursive conversation, Winfrey, 63, did just that, touching on the movie she just made for HBO, "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks," in which she plays Deborah, the daughter of the title character, an African-American woman whose cancer cells became crucial to medical research. We also talked about her next movie, "A Wrinkle in Time," made with her friend, Ava DuVernay, who created the beautiful, character-driven drama "Queen Sugar" for OWN. And other movies, too, ones that Winfrey has made, might one day make, as well as films dear to heart.

Q: Deborah is searching for her identity through finding out about her mother. Did playing her make you think about your half sister, Patricia, and what it was like for her to find you and your mother after so many years?

A: You're the only person who's ever brought that up! But you are right. I thought of her a lot. There's a line where Deborah says, "The only thing I care about is my mother and my sister." I know that my sister has said those words.

Q: Her longing for family informed your work?

A: Definitely. That was part of my process. Because I don't have that longing. I'm the exact opposite. Like, probably when I was 20-something, I was told by a cousin that my father wasn't my father. And I said, "The only father I have is Vernon Winfrey, and he's in a barber shop in Nashville, Tenn." And if somebody who said they were my father came to my front door, it would not matter to me.

I don't have any of that longing to know. Partly because I just do have this deeper sense of belonging to something bigger than my parents. Because my parents were together only one time. So it wasn't like, "Oh, gee, we wanted this daughter." (Laughs)

I'm glad my father did lay claim to me when he didn't have to. And I'm glad my mother didn't abort me because it would have been easier to do as a poor colored woman with no education in Mississippi. So I'm grateful for that, but I don't feel this deep sense of belonging to them. I think I belong to something bigger. The coming of me has been in the making for a long time.

Q: You're talking generations.

A: I never read it thoroughly when it was done, but I just recently looked at Henry Louis Gates' book, "Finding Oprah's Roots." Looking at it, I am a descendant of not just slaves, but slaves who loved land, which I now have a thing about land. I like it better than shoes. I'd rather have a nice piece of land than a great pair of shoes!

The fact that my great-great-grandfather could come out of slavery and end up a land owner, my great-great-grandmother would come out of slavery and end up a teacher and built a little school on a property  and I had this yearning to build a school for girls. That's what I mean: It all comes from something bigger. Deeper.

Q: Going back to Deborah and the movie  if you made that connection with your half sister, why did you have so many reservations about taking the part?

A: I always have reservations about acting. I don't want to embarrass myself.

Q: But you've acted in movies directed by Steven Spielberg and Jonathan Demme and Ava DuVernay.

A: I started with Spielberg. So I started pretty high in the food chain.

Q: And you've said that you were terrified every day he was going to fire you on "The Color Purple."

A: I was terrified. There was another movie - was it "Mask"? - where somebody had recently been fired, and it had never occurred to me that you could be fired from a movie. But I did know that if there was anybody who could be fired, it would be me, because I didn't know what I was doing. Period.

My first day on set and I am in the first scene and I walk in and look directly into the camera and say my line. "Cut! Cut!" Steven asked, "Why are looking into the camera?" I had been on TV since I was 19 and that's what you do. You look at the camera. Anyway, I learned. But I've never stopped being intimidated.

Q: What about acting for Ava in "A Wrinkle in Time"?

A: Well, that was different. That was just a fun thing to do. I'm so proud of her. You know why? Because it mirrors my relationship with Maya Angelou. She used to tell me she was proud of me, but I couldn't hear it. I couldn't receive it. I didn't really know what that meant until my friendship with Ava. Every time she does something, I think, "Oh. This is what Maya felt about me. That's what it means when you feel enlarged by someone else's successes." Her growth makes me feel broader.

Q: Tell me about Mrs. Which, your character in "A Wrinkle in Time."

A: She's a cross between Glinda the Good Witch and Maya Angelou. (Laughs)

You know, it all started because I love New Zealand so much. So when Ava went there to scout and she's telling me about the ice caves and glaciers and mountains and turquoise lakes, I told her, "I am coming to visit." And she said, "If you're going to visit, why don't you work? Would you mind reading the script?"

So I did. And I believe I am Mrs. Which! You know, she's born of the stars and she's a wise woman coming from another cosmos. So, c'mon! And she loves pontificating.

Q: Next thing you're going to say is that she loves desserts and Toni Morrison.

A: She probably does! Anyway, it was done out of friendship in the beginning and turned into a great experience. I just saw it in its rough stages the other day, just a piece of it, and I started to cry. She's put her soul into it. And Disney has given her the luxury of time, which she has never had before. It's going to pay off in ways you can't imagine.

Q: What about this talk of you playing the Shirley MacLaine role in Lee Daniels' remake of "Terms of Endearment"? Is that going to happen?

A: It's just a rumor. I spoke to Lee, actually, this morning who told me that somebody is writing it. And I go, "Lee, you're not doing a thing until you have a script." And I don't think it should be called "Terms of Endearment," that's for sure, especially if you're doing a whole other script. It's about an African-American family and the girl gets AIDS from the husband. That's not "Terms of Endearment." It's something else.

Q: So you're not stepping into Shirley MacLaine's shoes?

A: What I am saying for sure is that I am not going to try to step into Shirley MacLaine's shoes. It's unnecessary to do that. She's already done it as well as it could be done for that role.

I just watched "Terms of Endearment" recently with my girls (students at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa). I sit down with them, telling them all the movies you need to know. (She pounds her hands) Movies you  need  to  know. "Terms" might be my favorite movie of all time other than  well, "(One Flew Over the) Cuckoo's Nest" is one of my favorites.

When I first opened my school, I made everyone watch "The Wizard of Oz," and they were like, "Mom O, why are we watching this white girl run up some yellow bricks?" That's when they were 12 or 13. Now they get it. Because I teach, "You've always had the power. You spend your whole life running around, looking for the perfect yellow brick road, and it's always right here." Now they're college graduates. We were just talking about this the other day. "Remember when you made us watch 'The Wizard of Oz?' " What was that all about?

Q: Same thing when I first showed "To Kill a Mockingbird" to my kids. "It's in black and white? Nooooo!"

A: What's your favorite line in that movie? Come on. Tell me!

Q: Uuummm.

A: "Stand up. Your father's passing." Still gets me every time!

I normally don't watch movies more than once. That one I probably saw three or four times as a little girl. Scout. Why didn't someone name me Scout? I just love the idea of being a Scout. You can never be mad at a Scout, you know.
When did the simple act of backyard barbecuing - the thing your dad and uncles practiced on innocent briskets and plump pork butts on weekends with a cooler of beer at their side - become such a scientifically onerous, methodological exercise?

The answer, quite simply, is it happened when barbecue got big. Extreme, even.

Today's most devoted amateur smoked-meat practitioners are no longer content to put out merely good platters of smoke-blackened meats. No, driven by the growing national obsession for Flintstones-size beef ribs, fat-jiggly brisket and fall-apart pulled pork, they are going to great lengths to improve their barbecue game. They want to be able to produce competition-quality 'cue like they see on television. Or reproduce the lines-around-the-block smoked meats they've witnessed at barbecue temples such as Killen's Barbecue in Pearland or Franklin Barbecue in Austin.

That desire for personal barbecue zenith is what brought 60 eager participants from across the country to the 2017 Barbecue Summer Camp held at Texas A&M University in College Station. The camp, now in its sixth year, is a joint project between the university's meat-science department and Foodways Texas, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Texas food culture.

The success of the first barbecue camp was so profound, it spawned a second camp devoted exclusively to brisket instruction.

These 60 barbecue enthusiasts are the lucky ones. They were chosen by lottery to attend the intense, hands-on, three-day immersion into all aspects of barbecue. For every happy camper tapped, there were dozens of disappointed hopefuls. The lottery sells out online in a matter of seconds.

The overwhelming response for a chance to get better at barbecue shows just how much interest in smoking meat has grown in the past decade. Barbecue nation, apparently, isn't just a hungry mass - it's a force that holds at least a burnt-end-size belief that they, too, can turn out award-winning brisket.

And why the heck not? After all, Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, arguably the world's smoked-meat mecca, started off as an amateur enthusiast with plenty of misfires in his quest to improve.

"Some of the things I was doing I found out were completely wrong," Ron Williams said on Day 2 of summer camp. "But I'm feeling real good about the take-home message."

The practicing chiropractor from Napa, Calif., said he came to the class because he eventually wants to start a part-time barbecue catering business. He doesn't need the money, he just likes to see people happy.

"I want to get it right," he said. "I want to polish my stone to be able to make the perfect brisket. Brisket makes people happy."

Covering all the bases

There's plenty of brisket to go around. One of the enticing things about barbecue camp is that participants get to eat all of the products they work on. That means dozens of racks of ribs, briskets, pork butts, whole smoked pigs, chickens and even turkeys.

"If only they all turned out like this," one student said, marveling at a slice of brisket during a dinner catered by Bryan Bracewell, owner and third-generation pitmaster at Southside Market in Elgin and Bastrop.

Bracewell, a Texas A&M grad, was on hand to show students how to get there. He and other distinguished pitmasters are among barbecue-camp "faculty," which in previous years has included Franklin, Wayne Mueller of Louie Mueller Barbecue, Tom Perini of Perini Ranch Steakhouse, Texas Monthly barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn and author Robb Walsh, who has written extensively on Texas barbecue. This summer's panelists included Bracewell, Russell Roegels of Roegels Barbecue in Houston, John Brotherton of Brotherton Barbecue in Pfugerville and Kerry Bexley, owner of Snow's Barbecue in Lexington, which only a week prior was named the best barbecue joint in the state by Texas Monthly.

The academic staff is formidable. Jeff Savell, Davey Griffin, Ray Riley and Leslie Frenzel all work in A&M's animal science division. From their posts at the Rosenthal Meat Science and Technology Center (where barbecue-camp classes are held), they pretty much wrote the book on the path from animal to three-meat plate.

There is a decidedly eggheady aspect to barbecue camp, where animal anatomy, grading and butchering are covered. So, too, is food safety, cooking science, thermometers, knives and tools.

And then the stuff that really gets barbecue juices flowing: pit design and maintenance, wood types, the science of fire, achieving good smoke, and how brines, marinades and rubs affect flavor. The rubs are of particular interest. For that lesson, students were split into teams to create their own rub blends for briskets, pork butts and ribs. Those meats were then smoked on site and consumed the following day. But first they were evaluated by the teaching staff.

"Group A, you have some splainin' to do," professor Griffin said when he called up a team that went heavy on the garlic powder for its brisket rub.

"That doesn't suck," Roegels said, praising the balanced seasoning of a pork butt cooked for 14 hours. Griffin was more diplomatic in his same reaction to the pork: "That's really good, guys."

There were smiles all around from the team members who concocted the rub. Their work - the proof is in the taste - was met with applause. It's moments like this that make the camp heart soar. And worth every penny of the $600 tuition (which does not include travel or accommodations).

Camps spreading

The instruction of barbecue is a fast-growing subsection of the overall barbecue juggernaut. There have never been more barbecue cookbooks on the market or barbecue programming on TV. Barbecue camp has never been more popular, Savell said.

"I have told people that what I think separates Texas barbecue from other foods is that people want to eat great barbecue, but they want to know how to cook it, too," he said. "I don't think this is the same for Tex-Mex, chicken-fried steak or any other regional or special cuisine."

And now camps are popping up to help educate a new generation of barbecue fanatics. North Carolina State University started its own camp this year. The North Carolina Barbecue Society also holds an annual BBQ Boot Camp that delves deep into preparing pork ribs, brisket and whole-hog barbecue.

In July, the Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio will hold its Grilling and BBQ Boot Camp, a two-day immersion into "the joys of America's favorite kind of backyard entertaining." Barbecue guru Steven Raichlen runs the annual Barbecue University at the five-star Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs, Colo.

In Houston, a company called BrisketU offers three-hour classes at area breweries. The classes, limited to 12 students per session, are taught by pitmasters who promise to help participants get better results.

And that's really what barbecue campers at Texas A&M say is the goal. They want to take out the guesswork, cut through the wives' tales and eliminate defeatist apprehensions that come with amateur smoking. And though some participants own restaurants or hope to one day open their own barbecue joint, the majority just want to be proud of their labors at a smoky pit when they serve family and friends.

Robert Slater, a "semi-retired" hotel executive from Oklahoma City, came to camp to learn the fundamentals, especially how to cook a great Central Texas-style brisket, from the masters.

He said he left camp with more information than he knows what to do with, "to the point of knowing enough to be dangerous."

And Slater is hoping to become even more dangerous still: His next goal is winning the lottery to Camp Brisket.
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The craft-beer boom thunders on, with neighborhoods big and small welcoming new breweries with open wallets. Dozens across the Houston area, from Galveston to Bryan-College Station, are drawing respectable crowds with regular taproom hours and a soul-stirring variety of beers.

But back in 1994, it was a lot harder to convince Houstonians to try something as exotic as an amber ale. The task fell largely to Saint Arnold Brewing Co. and its founder, Brock Wagner.

"He did all the hard work way, way back," says Ben Fullelove, whose Brash Brewing Co. is among the brash new breed of Houston beer makers. "Everyone who opens today has a much easier time and a market to pitch it to."

His point is clear. Wagner and his early team struggled to educate consumers about the different, more intense flavors craft beer had to offer. His Saturday brewery tours - with free samples and a signup sheet to get newsletters - became a model for others seeking to build awareness and brand loyalty in an era when American beer was almost completely defined by light American lagers served up by Bud, Coors and Miller.

For more than a decade, Saint Arnold was Houston's only production craft brewery, making far smaller batches than its mainstream competitors. Wagner enjoyed craft beer's first wave and endured the crippling bust that followed. During a time when Texas law still prohibited breweries from selling beer on site, Saint Arnold expanded beyond its industrial-park roots to convert a century-old warehouse with downtown views into a bona fide tourist attraction.

So as Saint Arnold recently celebrated its 23rd anniversary, Fullelove and four of his contemporaries paid homage to the "granddaddy" of Houston craft breweries with a series of "tribute" beers. Each took a known Saint Arnold beer and brewed it with their own twist. A weeklong rollout drew packed crowds at popular beer bars around town.

Brash, whose staff includes a former longtime Saint Arnold brewer, Vince Mandeville, put its take on Weedwacker using a new type of yeast and adding white wheat to the recipe. The result is Knutsens Farm.

B52 Brewing Co., a 3-year-old craft in Conroe, turned Saint Arnold's original Amber Ale on its head by using brettanomyces yeast for a tart, sour flavor and adding blackberries and raspberries. The result was Bishop's Gone Wild, a name play on Saint Arnold's Bishop's Barrel series.

Other tribute beers included Extravagant Yard Cutter, Southern Star Brewing's extra-hoppy take on Fancy Lawnmower; Brock The Night Away, an imperial black India Pale Ale inspired by Santo and produced by Magnolia's Lone Pint Brewery; and Chop Shop IPA from Eureka Heights Brew Co., the youngest of the bunch.

Eureka Heights brewmaster Casey Motes is another Saint Arnold alum (along with Mandeville and Southern Star founder Dave Fougeron). While employed there a few years ago, he developed the beer that became Saint Arnold Art Car IPA.

So Motes enthusiastically took on the task of making Chop Shop, channeling Art Car but with a different type of hops, citra, that is used in some other Eureka Heights beers. Like Art Car, whose cans are adorned with a drawing by local graffiti artist Gonzo247, the Chop Shop artwork is an interpretation by the muralist Ack!

Motes credits Saint Arnold for its ability to make "really good, really consistent" beers that fit well with Houston climate - and for "weathering the storm" during the 1990s.

"I don't think I've ever met a brewer who doesn't respect Saint Arnold and what they've done," he says.

For his part, Wagner seems most gratified by the community that has grown up around craft beer, as exemplified by the crowds who attended the recent round of tribute events. He feels good about his role in nurturing that.

"At the end of the day," he says, "it's about sharing beers with friends."
Dazzling parks seem to open every few weeks in Houston, including the redesigned Levy and Emancipation parks, but by one important measure the city is failing to meet a basic standard of park access for about half of population.

As Gail Delaughter reports for Houston Public Media and Brian Reynolds writes in the Chronicle, Houston ranks 81 out of 100 major U.S. cities in the latest ParkScore report released by the Trust for Public Land (TPL).

The ParkScore map for Houston shows parks and open spaces in dark green. Nearby areas within a 10-minute or half-mile walk are in light green. The orange and red spots are the park deserts  places where there is a density of people, especially children and low-income residents, but no park nearby.

"We based [our analysis] on actual walkability by working with park agencies to verify park access and calculate the 10-minute walk along streets," says TPL data cruncher Bob Heuer. "If there is a railroad or highway that impedes access, you can have property adjacent to a park appear red because you cannot actually get to the park."

Though this process of verification might seem obvious, so many interactive mapping tools do not take this step. "Most park-equity studies measure distance as the crow flies," notes Heuer.

Cite Magazine

Children across the bayou from Mason Park know the difference. Imagine the frustration of seeing that lush park barricaded by a set of railroad tracks, a four-lane thoroughfare with excessively spaced crosswalks or even the bridgeless bayou itself. These park-adjacent park deserts show up on the map as kissing green and red blobs.

With funding from the Houston Endowment, the TPL piloted a tool that identifies where new park acquisition would have the greatest impact. Many are in the Gulfton, Sharpstown and Alief neighborhoods where parks are limited and densities high. Public-private partnerships have vaulted Houston into the national spotlight by producing Discovery Green and Bayou Greenways, and remaking Buffalo Bayou Park, Hermann Park, Memorial Park, Levy Park and others. Can this model address our park deserts?

Cite Magazine

With $5 million in grants from the Houston Endowment and Kinder Foundation, plus $450,000 from the city, an expansion of the SPARK School Parks program attempts to do just that.

Founded in 1983 by Eleanor Tinsley, and led today by her daughter Kathleen Ownby, the SPARK program works with public schools to create publicly accessible parks. In exchange for financial investments to build on or upgrade their grounds, the schools agree to allow public access to the parks after hours and on weekends for neighborhood residents. SPARK has worked with over 200 schools in the Houston area. Today there are 150 active SPARK parks. The grants will fund 25 new SPARK parks and five "re-SPARKS" in designated park desert communities over the next three years.

The Powell Foundation has given an extra $500,000 towards this initiative. To date, 21 of the 25 new sites have been identified and schools are working on park designs. Three of the five re-SPARK projects have been identified and are in design. Clear Creek, Houston, Katy, Channelview, Alief, Fort Bend, Pasadena, and Aldine independent school districts, as well as several charter schools, are participating. In addition to the foundation support, funds are coming from individual schools, school districts, management districts, MUD districts, county commissioners, homeowner's associations, the private sector and City of Houston Community Development Block Grant funds.

In the past, the program has relied on the initiative and fundraising support of communities surrounding the schools, a method that works in well-off areas. For example, a lovely re-SPARK recently opened at Roberts Elementary near Rice University. The one at Travis Elementary in Woodland Heights features a dinosaur sculpture designed by Paul Kittelson.

But the Houston Endowment and Kinder grants refocus the SPARK program on the park deserts identified in the TPL map. Plus, the City of Houston's cash-starved Parks and Recreation Department pinned its 2015 master plan to the map. Cost-effective, bite-sized, and high-impact  the SPARK expansion is a smart idea that will produce quick results where it matters most.

Cite Magazine

Bush Elementary SPARK Park in Alief will be under construction this summer with a dedication planned for November 2017. Although the apartment complexes near the school are close to a massive detention basin and park along Brays Bayou, the Sam Houston Tollway blocks pedestrian access. The new SPARK at Bush Elementary will provide a walkable neighborhood park to everyone who lives nearby.

As the city puzzles through the broad directives of Plan Houston, perhaps the Planning, Parks and Public Works department heads can also look at those kissing blobs and dream up safe infrastructure that connects more kids to parks and schools. A footbridge or tunnel here, a mid-block crossing or High-intensity Activated crossWalK (HAWK) signal there, could go a long way.

The TPL map suggests even more. It is perhaps our best metric of walkability. Again, the process of verifying on-the-ground conditions sets it apart. Tools like Walk Score and Google's "Areas of Interest" are so focused on measurable densities of storefronts that they relegate much of Houston to the not-interesting dustbin. The TPL map steers clear of walkability-as-shopability. Park access is a more universalizable goal than trying to build four-story apartment blocks atop ground-floor retail all over the city.

Molly Glentzer

The love of parks seems to cross all political and demographic boundaries in Houston. For example, the continued support for a bridge across the bayou in Mason Park in the face of a $1.4 million cost overrun demonstrates the political will to better connections within the bayou park system. The successful bond measure in 2012 to provide public funds to the Bayou Greenways effort also shows this broad base of support for parks.

Can that love cross the boundaries of the park itself? Is it possible for park-love to seep into the redesign of adjacent streets? The implementation of the new Bike Plan, if pursued as part of a comprehensive strategy that improves conditions for those walking, riding transit and rolling in wheelchairs, could improve the ParkScore as well. Perhaps this map can turn Houston's attention, finally, to urban design.

Raj Mankad (@mankad) is editor of Cite, a publication of the Rice Design Alliance. This article originally appeared on OffCite, RDA's blog.





Bookmark Gray Matters. Cost-effective, bite-sized, and high-impact  it is a smart idea that will produce quick results where it matters most.
When Amazon announced that it is buying the Whole Foods chain for $13.7 billion, I was intrigued  and also concerned. The idea, apparently, is to make the grocery industry more efficient and to grow the burgeoning grocery-delivery business.

Efficiency is nothing new to grocery stores. For the last hundred years, it's driven changes to the industry. (Or "disruptions," as tech entrepreneurs say.) In general, the companies become ever larger, able to deliver food ever more cheaply.

Consider Houston's grocery history. During the first quarter of the 20th century, small mom-and-pop grocery stores ruled. In 1922, Houston had 775 grocery stores to serve a population of 138,276: That works out to one store per 178 residents.

A few were local and regional chain stores, but the majority were independently owned. Most offered a limited selection: flour, tea, coffee, sugar, and pickles sold in bulk, a few canned items, and maybe some produce or meat. Lack of good refrigeration limited your choices. Most residents lived within walking distance of a store, and many stores offered delivery.

By 1950, the age of the supermarket had dawned. Though Houston still had many independent grocers, national and local chains like Henke & Pillot and Weingarten had opened more and larger stores with a wider array of packaged products, as well produce and meat in refrigerated cases. In 1954, Houston's population had increased to 596,163 residents, but the number of grocery stores had only grown to 1,300: one store per every 459 residents.

Since then, stores have continued to grow fewer but larger, better stocked while also seeming more generic and soulless. In 2011, Houston had one grocery store for every 1,200 residents. Those stores tend to cluster in wealthier neighborhoods.

This is the retail grocery landscape that Amazon seeks to disrupt.



THE HOUSTON area's diversity may offer a unique set of challenges for Amazon: markets that Whole Foods isn't currently serving. Many Houstonians cook the cuisines of their homelands, shopping at stores like Fiesta, Ranch 99, Mecca Halal Meat and Supermarket, H-Mart, the stalls behind Canino's, Pyburns or Keemat.

And as the U.S. catches up to Houston's racial and ethnic mix, reaching these customers may be key to grocery success.

But even if we focus on the wealthier, whiter Houstonians who shop at Whole Foods and its upscale competitors (Central Market, HEB, and Kroger's tonier stores), you could argue that Amazon is late to the grocery game.

Amazon's major retail competitors  big-box stores such as Wal-Mart, Costco, and Target  long ago made major inroads into the business. They're able to provide consumers one-stop shopping, cheaper prices, and/or bulk packaging and purchasing.

Walmart, the number-one player in the U.S. grocery business, controls 14.5 percent of the market. Whole Foods only has a 1.2 percent share of the U.S. grocery business, and Amazon currently controls 0.2 percent. Combined, that's less than a tenth of Walmart's share alone.

But the industry is in flux. Recently, grocery-delivery services have been making a comeback.

Lately, every third person at HEB seems to be pushing two carts and sporting the green T-shirt of the $3.4 billion grocery delivery start-up Instacart, which was founded by former Amazon employee Apoovra Mehta. Instacart recently inked a five-year deal with Whole Foodsa partnership that is likely in jeopardy, since Amazon has been flirting with its own grocery delivery service.

Though the online grocery business currently accounts for about 7 percent of sales, it seems clear that Amazon sees grocery, even with its notoriously low margins, as an area of potential growth.

Amazon isn't alone: Even Google has ventured into the grocery-delivery business, and several pre-prepped meal delivery businesses, such as Blue Apron, are trying to grow their market share.

By purchasing a well-established brand with brick-and-mortar locations in high-end neighborhoods throughout the U.S., Canada, and Britain, Amazon is well placed to leverage its extensive warehouse and delivery system to dominate the high-end grocery market  both for delivery and for brick-and-mortar stores.

Amazon has been laying the groundwork for food delivery for several years, says Robyn Metcalfe. Metcalfe is the director of the nonprofit Food+City and a food researcher at The University of Texas at Austin. But Amazon still has a work to do, she wrote in an email:

It will need to build out its cold chain infrastructure. Wal-Mart, Aldi and others are working on the Last Mile delivery with ideas such as drive-through kiosks and chilled storage boxes located where consumers already are, such as parking lots near subways. Sensors and real-time tracking of temperatures inside packages will supercharge this new marriage.



WHAT IMPACT will Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods have on Houston? Based on Amazon's track record, it's a good bet that they'll make significant changes to the way that some Houstonians acquire food. But whether those changes are good or bad is another matter all together.

In the best case, Amazon's hyper-efficient warehouse and delivery infrastructure could bring lower prices. And that could do a lot to win back the customers Whole Foods has been losing.

I'm one of them. For produce, I shop at farmer's markets, supporting small local producers and tiny independent businesses directly. I used to turn to Whole Foods to fill in gaps  you can't buy paper towels or flour at a Houston farmer's market, and I appreciate Whole Foods' smaller stores, the quality of many of their products, the usually friendly staff, and the fact that I can stroll the aisles while drinking a beer. But that upscale experience isn't enough to overcome the prices: I can purchase what I need at HEB or Fiesta for nearly half the cost.

Will greater behind-the-scenes efficiencies be enough to make a difference to the prices consumers pay? This isn't the book business of the 1990s: Amazon is entering the grocery business after its competitors have already adopted many of the technological improvements in warehousing and delivery systems methods that Amazon itself pioneered. This time, what Amazon brings to the table (pun intended) appears to be not so much backstage innovation but market muscle and brand loyalty.

The most obvious sources of new efficiencies at Whole Foods could involve cutting jobs. Amazon has already experimented with a grocery concept called Amazon Go, which eliminated cashiers by using various technologies to charge you by tracking what you remove from the shelves.

And it's not just Whole Foods employees whose jobs may be in danger. Margins up and down the food supply chain are razor-thin, especially for the local farmers and small, local vendors that Whole Foods has at times supported. Amazon has used its market might to negotiate lower prices with major publishers and other vendors, which has left a bad taste in the mouth of authors, publishers, and bricks-and-mortar retailers. Will the company apply the same pressure to farmers and food vendors?

Will the local Houston products currently carried by Whole Foods still make sense for Amazon's highly automated warehouses? Will they develop a system that will make fresh produce available at reasonable prices to people of all demographics while ensuring farmers make a good living?

On Friday, California restaurateur and farm-to-table advocate Alice Waters encouraged Bezos to do just that:

You have an unprecedented opportunity to change our food system overnight: It is time to demand that produce comes from farmers who are taking care of the land [and] to require meat and seafood to come from operations that are not depleting natural resources.

That's an extraordinarily tall order, and it may be too much to hope for. But for now, as we wait to see how the deal plays out, we're free to hope.

David Leftwich is the executive editor of Sugar & Rice, a Gulf Coast food and culture publication based in Houston. He is also the author of the chapbook The City, which was published last year by Little Red Leaves Textile Series.

Bookmark Gray Matters. Lack of good refrigeration limits your choices.


Dr. Benjamin Chu is stepping down as president and CEO of the Memorial Hermann Health System, just one year after assuming the top job at Houston's biggest hospital network.

The resignation is effective immediately.

"After much discussion with the system board, I have made the difficult decision to leave the organization to pursue my passion in health and public policy," wrote Chu in an email to Memorial Hermann employees and physicians Monday morning. "As a physician and longtime public policy advocate, I look forward to continuing my mission to enhance access to high-quality care and improve the overall health of our population."

RELATED GALLERY: Houston Hospital Ratings

Neither Memorial Hermann nor Chu gave a specific job for which he is leaving. A system press release said he is leaving to "pursue his passion in health and public policy."

Memorial Hermann Health System Board Chair Deborah M. Cannon said in a statement that Chu plans to "continue his mission to enhance access to high-quality care and improve the overall health of our population." She added that "with the current state of the healthcare industry, I can think of no better time for a champion like Dr. Chu to help lead public policy efforts."

Charles Stokes, Memorial Hermann's chief operating officer, has been named interim president and CEO of Memorial Hermann, in addition to his current role.

READ ALSO: Memorial Herman lays off 112 employees, mostly managers

The hiring of Chu, No. 26 on Modern Healthcare's 50 Most Influential Physician Executives and Leaders, was considered a coup at the time. The successor to Dan Wolterman, who retired after 14 years on the job, Chu came from Kaiser Permanente, a California nonprofit insurance plan that manages the health of its patients with its own network of hospitals and clinics.

Chu is the third major leader to step down in the Texas Medical Center this year. Dr. Ron DePinho resigned MD Anderson Cancer Center's presidency under pressure in March and Dr. Robert Robbins in April left the Texas Medical Center top job to become president of the University of Arizona.
Liberty Radio Texas is among the newest members of the Dayton Chamber of Commerce. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Thursday, June 15, during the chamber's annual Taste of Dayton.

The web-only radio station, found at www.libertyradiotexas.com, was founded by Dayton resident Jeff Leblanc in October 2016. The programming director is Russell Payne.

"We offer a variety music station with rock and country mixed in with some political talk shows," Leblanc said. "The radio station is doing great. One of the advantages of an internet radio station is that we can track listenership. Our audience appears to be growing by about 25 percent each month."

The radio station's online format is especially appealing to a younger generation of listeners, Leblanc said.

"It's the trend of the modern generation. Plus if you want to start a new radio station these days you must buy one that is already established. You can't just go out and get a license from the FCC. They aren't issuing new radio station licenses these days," he said.

The line-up includes Liberty Line, hosted by Leblanc, Art Sisneros and Wesley Thomas, a show that is about local and state issues. Featured guests from the past are County Judge Jay Knight, County Attorney Matthew Poston and Sheriff Bobby Rader.

"On Wednesday evenings, we have Politics After Dark with Josh Delano, a former congressional staffer," Leblanc said. "That show is more about the DC political scene."

Proving that there is something for everyone, every Monday night at 8 p.m. is a showed called "A Walk Into the Unknown," hosted by Roger Johnson.

"It's about paranormal stuff - Bigfoot, Aliens and the supernatural -- and has a surprisingly large draw," said Leblanc.

If you miss a show or want to try out a sampling of what the station has to offer, podcasts are available on the website.

"If you listen for about 20 minutes, you will find something you like," Leblanc said.

The radio station is headquartered in Dayton off of FM 1409. Letters may be sent to P.O. Box 2684, Dayton, Texas, 77535.
Specialists who treat children with autism in Texas will soon be required to obtain licenses after Gov. Greg Abbott recently signed an amended version of Senate Bill 589 into law.

The bill, by Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr., D-Brownsville, will require licenses for applied behavior analysts, therapists most known for their treatment of autism. After easily passing in the Texas Senate on May 1, the bill also swiftly passed in the House on May 23 before heading to Abbott's desk.

"Because of the tireless work behind SB 589, our most vulnerable Texans who benefit from applied behavioral intervention - such as children with autism, along with those with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities, and with brain injuries - will now be protected by SB 589, which will reduce the probability and the possibility of them being harmed by unqualified practitioners," Lucio Jr. said in a statement.

The bill's supporters have said a law is needed to regulate the profession. Texas has now joined more than 25 other states requiring licenses for behavior analysts.

"We are so delighted and appreciative of the Legislature," said Dorothea Lerman, director of the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities at the University of Houston Clear Lake and president of the Texas Association for Behavior Analysis."(Legislators) understood the importance of this licensure law. I know they heard from a lot of families and professionals who were in support of having this protection for families with special needs."

There are 1,606 children with autism in the roughly 75,000-student Katy Independent School District. Many other children with autism are enrolled at various autism treatment facilities throughout Houston.

The bill's amendments made the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation in charge of overseeing the licenses after the original version listed the Texas Medical Board as the regulator, and some language and standards regarding the TDLR were also changed or added.

Other licensed professionals such as psychologists or those working in schools have raised concern regarding the scope of the bill, but that has mostly been quieted because the bill includes exemptions for practitioners who have their own licensure requirements. Some lawmakers have also voiced skepticism about having another medical profession regulated.

Applied behavior analysis is recognized by researchers and the autism community as a highly effective method of autism treatment. It breaks down weaknesses into small goals and rewards children for each goal completed. Treatment can require up to 40 hours per week of one-on-one time and can cost tens of thousands of dollars. About 40 behavior analysis facilities in Texas signed a petition in favor of the bill.

There are about 1,300 behavior analysts in Texas certified through the national Behavior Analysts Certification Board, which requires at least a master's degree from a credible behavior analysis program at a university, along with field work and other requirements. But people with little to no experience have legally been able to practice because licenses haven't been mandated.

Two years ago, a licensure bill passed the full House before stalling in the Senate. Stakeholders pushed the bill through the Senate first this go-around since it already had proven support in the House. Their bet worked.

"This bill will make sure behavior analysts meet the standards in Texas. We have had a very positive reaction from parents," said Kate Johnson-Patagoc, director of specialized services at the Texana Center, an autism treatment facility in Rosenberg and Sugar Land. "Many parents helped us with this bill. This will help raise the bar so that practitioners in Texas will meet high standards and have more positive outcomes for children and adults that benefit from behavior analysts."

The law goes into effect Sept. 1.
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - As American military officials complete plans that are likely to send several thousand additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan, a flurry of setbacks in the war have underscored both the imperative of action and the pitfalls of various approaches.

Further complicating the picture are questions about how to deal with neighboring Pakistan and balance separate fights against Afghan and foreign-based insurgents.

In the latest attack Sunday morning, Taliban fighters stormed a police base in southeastern Paktia province after detonating a suicide car bomb outside. At least five members of security forces and several civilians were killed, officials said. The attack came one day after an Afghan army commando shot and wounded seven U.S. troops inside an army base in northern Balkh province.

Almost every week seems to bring alarming and embarrassing developments that cast doubt on the ability of Afghan security forces to protect the public and make headway against the domestic Taliban insurgency and the more ruthless Islamic State.

From the powerful truck bomb that decimated a high-security district of Kabul on May 31, killing more than 150 people and sparking days of protests, to the Saturday shooting at the same base in Balkh where Taliban infiltrators killed more than 140 Afghan soldiers April 21, a spate of attacks from various sources is inflicting blow after blow on the nation's battered psyche.

The Saturday shooting was one of several recent insider attacks that are raising new concerns about poor vetting and conflicting loyalties, even among the elite Afghan special operations forces that the U.S. military sees as crucial to boosting the war effort. Experts said such attacks would be likely to increase if more U.S. troops arrive.

In eastern Nangahar province, where Afghan and U.S. special operations forces have been waging a joint campaign against Islamic State fighters, another Afghan army commando - reportedly a Taliban sympathizer or member - fatally shot three U.S. troops June 10.

U.S. military officials have claimed to be making steady progress in that fight. In April, the United States dropped its largest non-nuclear bomb on a complex of caves and tunnels used by Islamic State fighters, reportedly killing 92.

But last week, in an equally dramatic response, hundreds of Islamic State fighters captured Tora Bora, the underground labyrinth that was once the redoubt of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden. Underscoring the confused battlefield situation, it was the Taliban that Islamic State forces fought and drove out of the area.

U.S. military officials have expressed growing concern about the war and urged that several thousand more U.S. troops be sent to shore up Afghan forces. Fewer than half of the country's 407 districts are under full government control, and Taliban forces have come close to occupying several provincial capitals.

But no new U.S. policy or troop numbers have yet been announced, reportedly because of disagreements within the Trump administration. They include arguments over whether sending more troops would make a decisive difference, how much NATO allies should contribute and whether the United States should pressure Pakistan to rein in Taliban insurgents believed to be operating from safe havens there.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, who was recently given authority by President Donald Trump to set troop levels in the Afghan conflict, said last week that the United States is "not winning" in Afghanistan and that the Pentagon will present its strategy plan next month. "We will correct this as soon as possible," he told the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Both Afghan and American analysts, however, doubt that adding several thousand more troops to the 8,400 currently here will make much difference in a war that at one point involved 140,000 U.S. and NATO forces. They stress that U.S. policy also needs a strong political component to strengthen the government and push for reconciliation.

"It's clear that the U.S. cannot win this war militarily," said Michael Kugelman at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington. "The Taliban insurgency seems to strengthen by the day, the Islamic State remains resilient, public anger is building" and "Afghan troops are turning on their American trainers."

He said the new U.S. policy "can't come soon enough, but deploying a few thousand new troops will do little to shift the calculus on the ground."

Afghan analysts and officials argue that the top U.S. priority should be pressing Pakistan to cease harboring anti-Afghan militants. A spokesman for the defense ministry said Sunday that the U.S. government needs to put "real pressure on Pakistan to make it drop its support for terrorists."

Atiqullah Amarkhel, a retired Afghan army general, said that the government is facing an agile guerrilla enemy and that United States needs to focus on cutting its "lines of supply and support and training" in Pakistan. Sending more U.S. troops, he added, will "give more ammunition" for insurgents to attract recruits among young and jobless Afghans.

Mattis said the Pentagon plans to take a "regional approach" to the war and address "where this enemy is fighting from," which is "not just Afghanistan." Afghan officials have been more blunt, accusing Pakistan of harboring a violent Taliban branch called the Haqqani Network.

At a conference this month, President Ashraf Ghani charged that Pakistan is waging an "undeclared war of aggression" on Afghanistan. Pakistan's military commanders bristled at the "unwarranted accusations" and said Afghans should "look inward" to solve their insurgent problems.

Some members of Congress and U.S. think tanks have urged the Trump administration to crack down heavily on Pakistan, a former Cold War ally and a major recipient of U.S. aid. Clearly worried, Pakistani officials have denounced recent terrorist attacks in Afghanistan and have strongly denied backing the Haqqani Network.

But other voices have argued against putting excess pressure on Pakistan, saying it could risk political instability and religious unrest. Pakistan has suffered from years of militant attacks, most recently a spate of suicide bombings at Sufi shrines and other civilian targets in February.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson told a congressional hearing last week that the United States has "very complex relations" with Pakistan, but Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Calif., insisted that "if we don't succeed in Afghanistan," it is because of Pakistan's military-run intelligence service.

On the problem of insider attacks, Amarkhel said it is easy for anti-government sympathizers to "penetrate the ranks" of the security forces, because poor security and vetting make it difficult to assess recruits.

"It is hard to find the enemy within yourself," he said, adding that the Afghan military leadership is weak and politicized. "The recent insider attacks are not the first ones and will not be the last."

U.S. watchdog agencies have noted that corruption and nepotism within the Afghan military leadership have undermined the capacity of its forces, but changes in top officials appear to have made little difference. After the April 21 attack on the base in Balkh, Ghani dismissed both the defense and interior ministers.

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Salahuddin reported from Kabul, Afghanistan. Sharif Walid in Kabul, and Haq Nawaz Khan and Shaiq Hussain in Islmabad, contributed to this report.
BRIDGETON, Mo. - Dawn Chapman had listened with surprise and skepticism as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency vowed to clean up West Lake, the nuclear waste dump that has filled her days and nights with worry.

"The past administration honestly just didn't pay attention to [it]," Scott Pruitt stressed on a local radio show in April. "We're going to get things done at West Lake. The days of talking are over."

The next month, Pruitt took to television to say a plan for the site was coming "very soon" as part of his push to prioritize Superfund cleanups across the country. "It's not a matter of money," he said. "It's a matter of leadership and attitude and management."

On a blue-sky afternoon, Chapman sat in her small home in this leafy St. Louis suburb and mulled the latest set of promises from Washington - this time from a man known more for suing the EPA and rolling back environmental regulations than for cracking down on pollution.

"Why our site? Why now? Can he keep those promises?" the mother of three wondered. Her family lives only a couple of miles from West Lake, a contaminated landfill thatcontains thousands of tons of waste from the World War II-era Manhattan Project. "My biggest fear is he's just going to put a Band-Aid on it."

In Bridgeton and elsewhere, others are asking similar questions with various degrees of hope and hesitation. In his previous role as Oklahoma's attorney general, Pruitt had long-standing ties to oil and gas companies and a litigious history fighting the EPA. And although he has called the federal Superfund program "vital" and a "cornerstone" of the EPA's mission, the Trump administration has proposed slashing its funding by 30 percent.

With more than 1,300 Superfund sites nationwide - some of which have lingered for decades on the EPA's ever-growing "priorities list" - it's unclear how Pruitt will back up his professed commitment in an age of scorched-earth budgets. Critics worry that a single-minded focus on speeding up the process could lead to inadequate cleanups.

Pruitt has largely dismissed such issues. He argues that the program is beset more by bloated administrative costs and a shortage of initiative than by budget woes and notes that, at most sites, "private funding" is available from companies deemed responsible for cleanups.

"This agency has not responded to Superfund with the type of urgency and commitment that the people of this country deserve," Pruitt reiterated Wednesday - days before a contingent from Bridgeton would arrive in Washington, D.C., in hopes of meeting with him. He said he understands communities' distrust, not just about West Lake but many sites. "I'm very sensitive and sympathetic to what their concerns are," he said. "This agency has failed them. ... They have a right to be skeptical."

That they are. Residents in the shadow of Superfund sites remain wary of his pronouncements.

"Actions speak louder than words," said BrieAnn McCormick, whose neighborhood is closest to West Lake.

Families here have long lived with the reality of the site, which got its Superfund designation in 1990. The 200 acres include not just the radioactive waste that was illegally dumped in 1973, but also an adjacent landfill where decomposing trash as deep as 150 feet is smoldering in what scientists call a "subsurface burning event." The fire is now about 600 feet from that other waste.

West Lake has made Bridgeton the kind of place where some parents drive their children to playgrounds far from the landfill. Where some people keep homemade kits in their cars - face masks for days the stench hits, eyedrops for irritation, Tylenol for headaches. Where others trade stories of cancers, autoimmune diseases and miscarriages they're scared could be related to the Superfund site, although air, water and soil tests from the EPA and other government agencies have shown no link.

Activists fault the EPA for moving at a glacial pace. They accuse Republic Services, which took ownership of the landfill in 2008, of trying to avoid full-fledged cleanup.

Similar dynamics are playing out at many Superfund sites, where abandoned mines, contaminated rivers and manufacturing plants have left behind a daunting trail of lead, arsenic, mercury and other harmful substances. Some "mega sites" involve tracing hundreds of chemicals and scores of polluters.

Pruitt recently issued a directive saying that he plans to be more directly involved in decisions about Superfund cleanups, particularly ones in excess of $50 million. He established a Superfund task force, which is expected to report back this week on how to restructure the program in ways that favor "expeditious remediation," "reduce the burden" on firms responsible for cleanups and "encourage private investment" in the program.

"If this were some other world, it might be easy to believe they are trying to move things faster and in the right way," said Nancy Loeb, director of the Environmental Advocacy Center at Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law. "I don't want to say the Obama administration did a great job on Superfund; they didn't. ... But I fear [this administration] cutting its budget and giving access to the administrator for all big companies who want to come and talk is a death knell for meaningful cleanups."

---

When Congress established the Superfund program in 1980, lawmakers gave the EPA legal powers to force polluters to pay to fix the messes they had created. They also created a tax on the petroleum and chemical industries to offset expensive, complicated cleanups when a polluting company had gone bankrupt or could not be identified.

The tax generated billions of dollars for cleanups. But Congress allowed it to expire in 1995, and by 2003 the industry-funded trust fund was essentially broke. Lawmakers have chipped away at Superfund's budget since. The program gets about $1.1 billion a year, about half what it did in 1999.

As funding dwindled throughout the 2000s, the pace of cleanups also declined. Trump has proposed to slash $330 million more from the program annually.

"Either cut the budget or make things go better for Superfund. Pick one. You can't do both," said Peter deFur, who has consulted on Superfund sites for more than two decades.

He and other experts acknowledge the agency hasn't always moved quickly enough. But they are concerned Pruitt's focus on accelerating cleanups might lead to simplistic solutions that leave lingering environmental risks to nearby communities, which disproportionately are poor and minority.

"The cheapest and quickest option is not always the best," deFur said. "It's dangerous to not get it right the first time."

Mathy Stanislaus, who oversaw the program throughout the Obama administration, was troubled by the language Pruitt used in setting up the Superfund task force - a group led by a former Oklahoma banker whose resume includes no environmental experience.

"Nothing in his charge . . . talks about the public health dimension," Stanislaus said. "That, from my perspective, is revealing."

Pruitt insists that letting polluted sites "just languish" does nothing to protect public health.

"Listen, these [responsible companies] across the country are going to be held accountable," he said Wednesday. "They're going to get these areas cleaned up, or they are going to be sued by this agency."

Despite West Lake's complex challenges, the long-awaited cleanup could move forward relatively soon. For one, there are viable parties on the hook to pay the costs. (Republic Services is one of three "potentially responsible parties" that would shoulder the remediation.) And with the EPA's site investigation largely complete, officials already planned to make a final decision this year on how cleanup would proceed, according to former regional administrator Mark Hague.

"My goal was to get this decision done and done right with solid science and engineering behind it," Hague said. "This is not a place to take shortcuts. . . . At the end of the day, you've got to be able to tell people that what we've done will be protective of human health and the environment."

Although some nearby residents have pushed for a full removal of the radioactive material, a solution that could cost in excess of $400 million, Republic Services has maintained that "capping" the site with layers of rock, clay and soil would be sufficient and would avoid the risks associated with disturbing the nuclear waste. Its approach would cost closer to $50 million.

Company spokesman Russ Knocke said claims about health dangers are unfounded and unnecessarily divisive. "There's too much fearmongering. There's too much misinformation, and at some point science has to carry the day," he said. "The landfill is safe, it is in a managed state, and accusations of the contrary are simply false."

There is one thing the company and activists agree when it comes to a cleanup, however. "It's taken too long," Knocke said. "We certainly welcome the priority the new administrator is placing on the site."

Yet even with Pruitt's renewed "sense of urgency," tapping private dollars is not an option at some Superfund locations. At these "orphaned" sites, polluting companies long ago went bankrupt or ceased to be liable, and the cleanup responsibilities now fall mostly to the federal government. It's difficult to envision such places getting fixed without an adequate Superfund budget.

"If we feel like the numbers of the budget are not sufficient to address those, we'll be sure to let Congress know," Pruitt said.

Funding is what's needed in St. Louis, Michigan, a small town that was once a hub for DDT manufacturing. The site of the former Velsicol Chemical Corp. there remains among the most contaminated anywhere. Nearly 40 years after the plant's closure, robins still sometimes drop dead from the sky after having eaten tainted worms from the soil.

"We are just waiting for money from EPA," said Jane Keon, who helped found a local citizen's task force. The group saw an opportunity after Pruitt vowed to prioritize the Superfund program.

"We request that you consider funding our site as an excellent public relations example," it wrote him in a letter. "All we need now to get underway is several million dollars. ... If you can get those dollars to us, [remediation] work can begin at once, and you would have an example to point to."

---

In and around Bridgeton, the waiting also continues. People like Meagan Beckermann, pregnant with her third child, weigh whether to leave or stay.

"For us, it's constantly what if," she said.

On that sunny afternoon this month, Dawn Chapman stopped to visit Karen Nickel, who for years had no idea she was raising her four children down the road from a Superfund site.

The pair co-founded Just Moms, a group advocating to clean up West Lake or relocate families living close by. As they sat at Nickel's kitchen table, they fretted that Pruitt might indeed allow the radioactive waste to be capped in place rather than removed - a solution the EPA had proposed almost a decade ago before reconsidering.

"It's got to be done the right way," Chapman said, as Nickel nodded in agreement. "There's no Harry Potter wand here."

Not far away in Spanish Village, the small development closer to West Lake than any other, McCormick stood on her front porch, gazing out toward the playground her children never visit. The neighborhood seemed so normal, with its freshly mowed lawns and tidy sidewalks. Balloons fluttered from a nearby house, celebrating a new baby's arrival.

McCormick, a teacher, is tired of worrying about the nuclear waste just over the hill. She and her husband recently decided they no longer will depend on Pruitt or anyone else to finally act.

"I'm meeting with a Realtor this afternoon," she said. "It bothers me, the idea of selling this to someone else. But I just have to get my kids out of here."

A few days later, a sign showed up in her yard. An open house was held Sunday.
It's 6:30 p.m., and the line for beer at Eureka Heights Brewing Co. has grown so long that people are bringing growlers to be filled, so they won't have to return. Not exactly what you'd expect on a Wednesday.

To be fair, this isn't a typical Wednesday at the brewery. Eureka Heights is hosting a themed trivia night, centering around the must-see-TV juggernaut "Friends."

And oh, how the millennials have filed in to battle it out.

"Usually, if we get 100 people for trivia, we're absolutely stoked," brewery owner Casey Motes says. "Tonight, though, I think it's going to be about 500 people."

Trivia has become a regular thing for Eureka Heights on Wednesdays. Sometimes it's general knowledge; other times it's more specific. In the past, the brewery had success with a "Seinfeld" theme and another with questions about the actor Will Ferrell. But nothing like this.

"We've done trivia for three to four months now. Maybe not even that long," Motes says. "It's been slow to build, for sure, but this is absolutely crazy."

Crazy, sure. But Houston breweries are growing in popularity so rapidly that crazy is beginning to seem normal.

"I think about four to five years ago is when you started to see this trend of people really wanting to spend time at breweries," Motes says. "Before 2013, it was illegal to sell beer at a brewery. So that really changed things. You could have someone buy a tour and give away beer - and some breweries still do that. But that provides a really limited window."

When the rules changed, the number of breweries in Houston began to skyrocket. And so did the amount of time Houstonians spent at them. Rather than popping in for a one-hour tour, open tap rooms meant a new place to hang out. And breweries have quickly become millennial playgrounds - a place to spend a whole afternoon.

"I like that when you're at a brewery, it's relaxed," says Lexi Vitucci, as she waits in line for her turn to order a pint. "They're not trying to kick you out. You can hang out for a while, which is nice."

That's by design.

"We know what we are. We're not a $14-cocktail bar downtown," Motes says. "We wanted to have a place where our friends would want to come and hang out, and that's what we've become."

They're not the only ones.

"In the last year, breweries have really been embracing this model of running more like a bar," Motes says. "You run in, you buy one bottle or 10. It's a little different than the traditional Texas brewery tour, and that leads to people hanging out."

At 11 Below Brewing Co., you can kill an afternoon playing cornhole. At Spindle Tap, there's Jenga. At Under the Radar, you can sit beneath the shade of an umbrella and challenge your drinking partner to a Connect Four tournament. If you want to amp things up, you can join the bike team at Saint Arnold, tag into the running club at Karbach and meet the ladies of Yoga & Hops for a night of yoga at an ever-growing list of local breweries.

As the number of breweries has ballooned in recent years, there has been some skepticism about whether Houston can support them all. But the folks waiting in line at Eureka Heights have a glass-half-full mentality on that.

"People are saying there are too many breweries opening," Will Speer says as he waits for a glass of Eureka Heights' Saint Arnold tribute beer, Chop Shop. "It's not that there are too many breweries opening up. It's just that we were so far behind that now we're catching up."

After drinking the cheap stuff in college, Speer, 31, was introduced to craft beer by a friend in his early 20s and began trying local brews in Oregon and Colorado, waiting impatiently for Houston to have a beer explosion of its own.

"After college, it's an evolution of taste. The reason college beer is popular is affordability: You're looking for quantity, not quality," Speer says. "Getting older, I would try a new beer and be like, 'OK. There's a new flavor to that.' And it takes your palate a while to adjust to things like hops. It can be really overwhelming, so it's like, you start with a pale ale, which tip-toes you into it, and pretty soon, you're a hop head."

Once you find what you like, you can spend months in a scavenger hunt across the city's breweries trying to choose the pint you like best. And the best part, he says, is that with all the events and games going on at each place, you'll have fun doing it.
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Houston's public entities aren't the only movers and shakers in town. Private companies, ranging from retail chains to construction companies and beer distributors, are also pumping a significant amount of money into the local economy.

The 75 companies that participated in this year's Top Private Companies list generated nearly $50 billion in revenues and employed more than 50,000 people in the Houston area.

"That shows there is a significant amount of business activity that's occurring among privately owned companies," said Patrick Jankowski, senior vice president of research for the Greater Houston Partnership.

The list includes many familiar companies, names that Jankowski said literally built Houston, such as Tellepsen, Wortham Insurance & Risk Management and Stewart & Stevenson. But there are also some younger companies, relatively speaking, and he said these tend to be focused in areas such as retail, electricity, logistics and specialty chemicals.

"That's kind of the new way of making money in town," Jankowski said.

He added that logistics will become increasingly important as Houston continues to increase its exports.

Crane Worldwide Logistics, No. 23 on the list with $616 million in revenues last year, opened in 2008 to help companies transport cargo via land, seas and skies. President and CEO John Magee said the company found a niche in moving unique items requiring hands-on attention.

The company grew to $690 million in revenue within its first six years, but then the price of oil crashed. Crane lost $200 million in revenue from its top 20 energy clients. They simply weren't shipping the same amount of cargo.

So Crane expanded its work with life sciences, automotive, aerospace and government and defense contracts.

The energy sector now represents 23 percent of Crane's business, down from 57 percent in 2014.

"It definitely had an impact," he said. "We've done a good job offsetting the impact."

One life sciences company, for instance, has hired Crane to transport cardiovascular kits. If someone has a severe cardiac issue and the emergency room doesn't have the necessary tools, Crane is responsible for getting the cardiovascular kit on the very next flight departing Washington, D.C., for that city. It also coordinates a driver to pick up the kit from the airport and deliver it to the hospital.

Another life sciences company has hired Crane to quickly transport bovine tissues used for the research and development of human drugs. The tissues must be moved in a temperature-controlled environment.

To further diversify its offerings, Crane announced a merger with Davaco in March. Davaco is a program management company that specializes in restaurants, hospitality and retail. If a nationwide franchise decided to install new countertops at all of its restaurants, it might hire Davaco to manage that process.

Magee said the merger with Davaco will allow the combined company to "do things that not all of our competitors do."

Instead of hiring three companies - one to do a site survey, a second to deliver the cargo, and a third to install and test the products - his combined company could handle all of those tasks.

Benchmark, No. 24 on the Private Companies list with $602.6 million in revenue last year, is also boosting its bottom line with a merger. Benchmark Hospitality International merged with Gemstone Hotels & Resorts last year and rebranded the combined company as Benchmark.

"The industry has gone through quite a bit of consolidation over the last five years," CEO Alex Cabanas said.

Gemstone managed boutique hotels, while Benchmark Hospitality managed larger hotels and resorts often attached to conference centers. The combined hotel management company operates 70 properties with 58 commercial hotels and resorts, including Hotel Contessa on the San Antonio River Walk. Its revenues reflect the combined revenue of all the properties it manages.

Cabanas expects the combined company to increase its revenue 30 percent to 40 percent this year as it has a number of projects under construction or being renovated. It's also involved in new development.

It will manage a 250-room hotel and conference center that is being built across the street from Kyle Field at Texas A&M University. As an Aggie, Cabanas is excited to be part of the project.

"It's been a great opportunity for us," he said. "We've been working on it for a couple years."

Benchmark also will operate the Delta by Marriott Hotel and Watters Creek Convention Center being built in Allen, near Dallas. The full-service hotel and convention center is scheduled to open in late 2018.

Cabanas said the convention center will feature more open floor plans, natural lighting, outdoor space and living-room type seating.

"Our joke in the company is no one wants to meet in beige ballrooms anymore," he said.
BEIRUT - The United States is becoming more perilously drawn into Syria's fragmented war as it fights on increasingly congested battlefields surrounding Islamic State territory.

On Sunday, a U.S. fighter jet downed a Syrian warplane for the first time in the conflict. By Monday, a key ally of President Bashar Assad, Russia, had suspended a pact used to prevent crashes with the U.S.-led coalition in the skies over Syria and was threatening to target American jets.

Separately, Iran said that it had launched a barrage of missiles into Islamic State territory in eastern Syria. That assault marked Tehran's first official strike against the extremist group in Syria, and it signposted the reach of its military might against foes across the region.

The incident followed a series of U.S. airstrikes against Iran-backed forces advancing on partner forces in a strategically prized swath of land along the Iraqi border.

As the major powers on the opposite sides of Syria's war intensify operations against the Islamic State, the risks of an accidental conflagration appear to be growing by the day.

The United States intervened in Syria to roll back Islamic State forces from a self-declared caliphate that once stretched deep into Iraq. But the American role has unsettled Assad's allies, threatening confrontation with Russia and thrusting Iranian-backed militiamen in a race with a U.S.-favored rebel force to reach the Islamic State's eastern strongholds.

The U.S. military confirmed late Sunday night that a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter-bomber.

The confrontation took place near the one-time Islamic State stronghold of Tabqa, hours after Syrian government forces attacked U.S.-backed fighters, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF. It was the first time that the American military has shot down a Syrian warplane during the six-year conflict.

On Monday, Russia condemned that strike as a "flagrant violation of international law," and said its forces will treat U.S.-led coalition aircraft and drones as targets if they are operating in Syrian airspace west of the Euphrates River while Russian aviation is on combat missions.

Pavel Baev, who studies the Russian military at the Peace Research Institute Oslo, called the threat "mostly a bluff" but said that "calling it is risky because there are some nervous fingers on many buttons."

In a statement Monday, the SDF warned that it would retaliate in the face of further aggression from pro-Assad forces, raising the possibility that the United States could be forced to deviate further from its stated policy in Syria, which only involves targeting Islamic State militants.

The U.S.-backed military alliance is making its way through the outskirts of the Islamic State's one-time capital of Raqqa, backed by U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. The alliance is dominated by Kurdish forces but also includes Arab forces.

If it again comes under attack by pro-Assad forces, Washington may be forced to defend the coalition at the risk of sparking a tinderbox of tensions with Iranian and Syrian troops in the northern province.

"The only actions that we have taken against pro-regime forces in Syria - and there have been two specific incidents - have been in self-defense. And we've communicated that clearly," said Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

But Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry said it was suspending the communication channel through which such messages had been shared in order to minimize the risk of in-flight incidents between Russian and U.S.-led coalition aircraft operating over Syria.

Dunford said the two sides discussed the matter as recently as Monday morning but that further talks are required.

"We work very hard on deconfliction. We've spent the last eight months on deconfliction," Dunford told reporters at the National Press Club. "It's going to require some military and diplomatic efforts in the next hours to restore deconfliction."

Col. Ryan Dillon, a spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition, said that "appropriate platforms" had been dispatched to help ensure operations would continue against the Islamic State, an apparent reference to U.S. aircraft designed to intercept enemy jets.

"Engaging in a game of chicken is not what the military on both sides would enjoy, but they are just instruments of politics, which is not anywhere close to rational at this moment, neither in Moscow, nor in D.C.," Baev said.

In Moscow, officials said that Sunday's shoot-down was intended as a message aimed squarely at Russia.

Frants Klintsevich, deputy head of the defense and security committee of the Russian upper house of parliament, called the incident "an aggression and a provocation."

"It looks like Donald Trump's United States is a source of a brand-new danger both in the Middle East and the world at large," Klintsevich wrote on his Facebook page.

But some analysts said Sunday's strike was an indication of the growing willingness on the part of Assad's forces to confront the U.S.-led coalition as it jostles to push Islamic State militants out of eastern Syria.

That effort has been bolstered by the arrival of thousands of Shiite militiamen who had fought in a campaign across the border in Iraq to capture the city of Mosul from Islamic State militants.

"The wild card here is the logic of an Assad regime which has decided that it no longer wants to be constrained to a Western Syria-based statelet," said Nicholas Heras, a fellow at the Washington-based Center for a New American Security.

That shift has been driven by an assessment that the Trump administration could use the territory its forces capture as a bargaining chip with which to push Assad into a political transition or Syria into a decentralized political system, Heras added.

"This is now an existential issue for them," he said.
A drunk man barreled through the closed gates of a business and sparked a fire Sunday morning in north Houston, according to authorities.

Just before 5 a.m., firefighters flooded the scene where smoke and flames were pouring out of storage units in the 14000 block of Northwest Freeway.
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Election board investigates complaint Crittenden County Board of Elections has investigated a complaint filed this morning against a local candidate, but no infraction was found...

Mt. Zion Cemetery Road closing for repairs next week Crittenden County will have a daytime closing of Zion Cemetery Road in the western part of the county beginning Monday, Nov. 14 and lasting...
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Larry McCollum arrived at the Hutchins prison unit near Dallas to a grim greeting. "Welcome to hell," the guards told him.

A cab driver with the look and physique of Santa Claus, McCollum was to finish an 11-month stint there for cashing a hot check. Instead, after six sweltering days on the cell block, the 58-year-old died of heatstroke.

McCollum shared his experiences in a letter that he wrote before his death.

"I can't imagine what my dad was going through," said his daughter, Stephanie Kingrey. "How scared he probably was, not knowing what was going to happen."

McCollum is among 22 people who have died as a result of indoor weather conditions at 15 state prisons since 1998, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The majority of Texas prisons do not have air conditioning in living areas.

The lawyers handling McCollum's wrongful-death lawsuit against the TDCJ also are tackling the rights of current and future inmates in a separate lawsuit that will be heard in Houston this week.

The case centers on six inmates at the Wallace Pack Unit in Navasota, about 75 miles northwest of downtown Houston. The plaintiffs argue that the cooling mechanisms the prison provides - fans, showers and cool drinking water - won't protect inmates from the dangers of extreme heat. Being locked inside with humidity and temperatures topping 100 degrees, they argue, amounts to cruel and unusual punishment.

U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has granted class-action status to the case, and the lawyers this week are requesting immediate relief for all Wallace Pack inmates - healthy and sick, young and old.

State criminal justice officials argue it's too expensiveto provide air conditioning throughout housing units. They say the warden and top administrators understand the danger of rising indoor temperatures during heat waves and take steps to mitigate it.

"We are prepared to vigorously defend our position in court," said Jason Clark, a spokesman for TDCJ. "The well-being of staff and offenders is a top priority for the agency, and we remain committed to making sure that both are safe during the extreme heat."

Prison officials uniformly take a variety of precautions to help reduce heat-related illnesses, Clark said. Water and ice are provided to staff and inmates; activity is restricted during the hottest hours of the day; and staff is trained to identify symptoms of heat-related illnesses and refer people for treatment.

The inmates, represented by Austin-based Edwards Law, contend such efforts are inadequate. They note in court documents that TDCJ requires cool air and ventilation for its hog barns with mist-generators that automatically turn on when the temperature rises above 74 degrees. And yet, "TDCJ has no similar policies to protect humans."

More Information The following inmates are part of a lawsuit challenging the lack of cooling at a prison unit northwest of Houston: Keith Cole, 63, has diabetes and hypertension and takes medicine that inhibits his ability to regulate his body temperature. He had been treated for heat exhaustion and has spent time in the air-conditioned infirmary. Jackie Brannum, 63, has diabetes and hypertension and takes medication for depression, Schizoaffective disorder and back pain that effect his body's abilities to thermoregulate. He has been treated at the infirmary for dehydration, dizziness and extreme headaches brought on by the indoor heat. Richard King, 70, has diabetes, hypertension and obesity. He has lost his coordination and skipped meals due to the heat. His conditions impair his ability to thermoregulate. Fred Wallace, 74, has hypertension, obesity and depression. His medications for depression and hypertension inhibit his ability to thermoregulate. He had been to the infirmary for dizziness and dehydration from the heat. Marvin Yates, 72, is a cancer survivor who has hypertension, chronic obstructive plumonary disease, coronary artery disease, asthma, diabetes and arthritis. He takes beta blockers and has a stent in his heart. His disabilities and medicaitons impair his ability to thermoregulate. He has experienced dizziness, muscle cramps, fatigue, blurred vision and headaches due to heat. Michael Denton, 39, does not have disabilities or take medications. See More Collapse

The debate boils down to a civil rights matter, said Carter White, director of the civil rights clinic at the University of California Davis School of Law, who has experience with class-action suits involving inmates.

"When people get sentenced to time in prison, it's not a death sentence," White said. "They're supposed to be housed in humane conditions that don't cause these heat-related illnesses."

Cooling off

Only 28 of the state's 107 state prison facilities provide air conditioning in housing areas, according to TDCJ. Medical, psychiatric and geriatric facilities are air-conditioned in all areas.

Many state facilities were built before air conditioning, and most built afterward do not have it because of costs for construction, maintenance and utilities, said Clark, the TDCJ spokesman.

The Pack Unit, a minimum-security facility built in 1983, houses more than 500 inmates with medical needs.

In May, it was near capacity with 1,478 men. Half the prisoners have been over age 50, and 200 or so are over 65. About 200 inmates are young and healthy, shouldering the bulk of the labor, according to lawyers with Edwards Law.

Some portions of Pack have air conditioning - including solitary cells and the infirmary - but not the prisoner's dormitories. Officials have designated some indoor areas where inmates can go for respite, but inmates can't spend all their time in these areas.

During extreme heat, officials say, the prison restricts outdoor activity, provides water breaks for workers and offers cold showers and extra drinking water and ice when available. It provides blowers and fans and attempts to ventilate the units. Guards encourage inmates to wear shorts.

But every summer some Pack inmates require treatment for heat-related illnesses, documents indicate. The windows in the dorms are sealed shut, and inmates often sleep on the concrete floor because it is cooler than on their bunks.

Each of the Pack inmates in the lawsuit has suffered setbacks as a result of indoor heat - five have medical complications and take medications that put them at heightened risk for heat exposure; the sixth is healthy.

The inmates are asking the court to require an explicit heat wave policy at Pack Unit with remedies for inmates at different risk levels. They also want the judge to force the prison to lower the indoor temperatures during heat waves and mandate on-demand showers, portable coolers, open windows with bug screens and three-hour periods of respite in air-conditioned parts of the facility.

Among other details, they want the prison to monitor inmates' water consumption, provide wellness checks and announce the temperature hourly during heat waves.

Ellison's ruling could set a precedent that would enable inmates at other facilities to challenge policies and practices, said Jennifer E. Laurin, a professor of criminal and civil rights law at University of Texas.

"If the judge orders changes to the prison," she said, "prisoners at other facilities could seek the same reforms."

Short but deadly stint

McCollum, a grandfather who drove a Yellow cab, was living with his wife in Waco when he was arrested. Someone had approached him outside a bank and asked him to cash a check with proceeds from a stolen car, his daughter said. McCollum, who had previous convictions for DWI and theft, was sentenced to 11 months in prison

When it came time to transfer him from the county jail to Hutchins Unit to serve his sentence, McCollum was scared, his family said. He had heard terrible things about the place.

After McCollum died, his wife Sandra received a letter he had written the day he arrived at Hutchins. When the prisoners arrived at the facility, the letter says, the guards taunted him with the grim greeting.

McCollum, who was diabetic with arthritis and high blood pressure, was given a top bunk. Per prison system policy, he wasn't issued a water cup, forcing him to use his hands to scoop water when he was thirsty, his family claims in court filings. But he rarely did that, the family believes, because he had trouble getting down from his bunk.

On July 22, 2011, fellow inmates found him having convulsions on the top bunk. He was taken to Parkland Hospital in Dallas, where his body temperature was found to be over 109 degrees. His family kept vigil for six days before cutting off life support.

Ten inmates died from heat exposure over a three-week period that summer at prisons in Palestine, Rusk, Huntsville and Kenedy, according to TDCJ records.

Kingrey and her family were the first relatives of a heat-illness victim to bring suit against TDCJ. Her aim, she said, is "to prevent other families from going through the hell we're going through."

"It's not humane," Kingrey said. "It makes me sick to my stomach knowing that other men and women living in Texas and all the other southern states get so hot and they have no relief whatsoever."
Hundreds were delayed from voting and others were nearly turned away entirely during the presidential election because of confusion over current state voter ID laws, a new report from a voting rights advocacy group shows.

It's just one of numerous problems Texas voters - particularly minority groups - faced during the 2016 election cycle, according to a report by the Texas Civil Rights Project.

"Unfortunately, throughout the state, voters faced numerous obstacles that complicated the process," said Beth Stevens, voting rights director for the nonprofit that released the report Thursday. "Through our Election Protection Coalition, we heard directly from thousands of voters about the barriers they faced in our electoral system."

The first-of-its-kind, Texas-based report on voter issues was limited in scope to more than 4,000 incidents that were logged. Of the 3,100 callers who specified their race, 52 percent of cases came from Latino or Hispanic voters and 20 percent from black or African-American voters. But Stevens said it's safe to assume more Texans experienced similar obstacles but didn't know how to report them.

"Common sense says that there is a whole subset of voters that didn't know who to call and just walked away," she said.

Polling place problems

Of the 4,000 incidents that were tracked by a coalition of voting advocacy groups during the presidential election, most were issues related to polling place problems, voter registration status or voter ID requirements.

TCRP Communications Director Zenen Jaimes Perez said the organization has trained researchers who go through a process that includes checking data in verifying claims made by callers. This means any claim that does not add up during the verification process is nixed, so hundreds of reported cases throughout the state were left out, Perez said.

The report also showed the number of provisional ballots, which are given to voters when their registration information is in doubt to still record their candidate preferences, went up statewide. However, Bexar County still had the lowest number compared with the state's other large counties.

More highlights from across the state:

Hundreds of callers reported they were not on the voter rolls because of slight discrepancies in their names or addresses.

A total of 123 people during early voting and 186 on election day called to report confusion about voter identification requirements, often prompted by misleading information at polling locations or inaccurate information from poll workers.

About 57 percent of calls were related to polling location problems, most notably, polling sites being changed or eliminated. Most of the reports came from predominately black areas of Houston, the report showed.

Many voters reported wait times in excess of one hour, noting that few poll workers were there to process voters or that multiple machines were either inoperable or not being used. This includes Bexar, Brazoria and Dallas counties.

Voter discrimination

The report comes nearly a year after a federal appeals court first ruled the state's strict 2011 voter ID law discriminated against minorities and the poor. That law would have required all voters to present a government-issued ID. Before that law, voters needed only to bring a voter registration card.

Supporters of the tougher ID law, including Gov. Greg Abbott, have said they are needed to prevent voter fraud. But critics argued such requirements disenfranchise poor and minority voters, who face difficulties obtaining IDs. More than 600,000 Texas voters lack a suitable ID under the law.

Even though the court ordered voters who did not have one of the forms of ID must still be allowed to vote, many polling sites during early voting included signs that said voter ID was required with no reference to allowable exceptions. Several polling sites in counties such as Bexar and Dallas had instances where misleading signs were posted in the first few days of the early voting period, according to the report.

"The inaccurate signage and misinformation combined with apparent failures in poll worker training resulted in at least several cases where voters were almost wrongly turned away," the TCRP's report showed.

That coalition is led by the TCRP, the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, the Texas Organizing Project Education Fund and Texas Common Cause.
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Spokesperson Greg Slade told Fairfax Media that the bankruptcy wouldnt necessarily have prevented Bryant from joining the board but the deception put his credibility under question.

People have their ups and downs, but the fact he didn't make that declaration made his position untenable to lead the company, said Slade.

Now, the firm  which is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange  is facing criticism over its ineffective background checks.

"It doesn't reflect well on anyone. We feel misled and some shareholders are asking why we didn't do our due diligence, Slade told Fairfax. Well we did, but we didn't go back 12 years ago. We took it as read. It's not a good situation all round.
Further, Culbertson said one of the key traits of a future-proof profession is one that involves significant human-to-human interaction as well as decision making which cant rely solely on data  something most HR professionals practice on a regular basis.

A lot of the decision-making done by HR involves weighing circumstances as well as data which machines arent really able to handle at this point, said Culbertson.

The Texas-based business analyst also suggested that the potential impact of automation may have been somewhat exaggerated in recent years.

Automation isnt a new phenomenon in the labour market  its been occurring to different degrees in our labour market for centuries, Culbertson told HRD.

Some of the hysteria about robots taking over jobs, how people arent going to have anything to do, were going to need a universal basic income and theres going to be a freedom from work  I think some of that is a little bit of hysteria, he said.
This is one of those times when we wish stars weren't just like us.

Like so many parents, Beyonce Knowles  who reportedly gave birth to twins last week  is staying in the hospital several days postpartum due to health issues with the babies, reports TMZ.

A source told the site the babies were born last Monday, but a "minor issue" was noticed and doctors did not want to release them from the hospital yet.

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Beyonce had announced the pregnancy back in February, with a photoshoot that became instantly iconic.

We would like to share our love and happiness. We have been blessed two times over. We are incredibly grateful that our family will be growing by two, and we thank you for your well wishes. - The Carters A post shared by Beyonce (@beyonce) on Feb 1, 2017 at 10:39am PST

Her father, Matthew Knowles, was the first to publicly acknowledge the birth on Twitter, with a celebratory picture of balloons and a message from "Granddad."

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But with no official word from Beyonce or husband Jay-Z, there is still some doubt whether or not the twins have even been born.

Beyonce's mother, Tina Knowles, posted her own social media message from New York on Sunday night, writing in part, "God lets things happen in his time not ours! Dont try to rush him!"

In New York for my friends son's wedding ! God lets things happen in his time not ours! Dont try to rush him! A post shared by Tina Knowles (@mstinalawson) on Jun 17, 2017 at 9:35pm PDT

And considering the close relationship Beyonce has with her mother, that does kind of complicate things.

For his part, Jay-Z (or Shawn Carter), the babies' dad, celebrated Father's Day by bailing out fathers who "can't afford the due process our democracy promises" from jail, as he wrote in an essay for Time magazine.

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There are plenty of questions swirling around these two little babes, but if there's one thing we know, when their family decides to talk about them publicly, they'll do so in a completely fabulous way.
GALI TIBBON via Getty Images Canadian Governor General of Canada David Johnston adjusts his kippa on November 2, 2016 during a visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial museum in Jerusalem commemorating the six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II. AFP PHOTO/GALI TIBBON / AFP / GALI TIBBON (Photo credit should read GALI TIBBON/AFP/Getty Images)

Governor General David Johnston apologized Monday for a flippant comment he made likening indigenous peoples to immigrants, rather than descendants of the original inhabitants of Canada.

Hours before he appointed 29 people, including Gord Downie, to the Order of Canada and other honours for outstanding indigenous leadership, he tweeted an explanation, calling his choice of words a miscommunication.

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And I want to clarify a miscommunication. Our Indigenous peoples are not immigrants. They are the original peoples of this land.  David Johnston (@GGDavidJohnston) June 19, 2017

In an interview with The House on Thursday, host Chris Hall asked Johnston a question on theme with Canadas upcoming 150th birthday, What kind of country are we?

Johnston responded by calling Canada a smart and caring country.

He continued: Were a country based on immigration going right back to our quote indigenous people unquote, who were immigrants as well, 10, 12, 14,000 years ago.

Listen to Johnstons comments starting at the 1:32 mark:

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Johnston then referred to a quote he attributed to former President Barack Obama, who himself borrowed it from Martin Luther King Jr.

The arc of history inclines upward to justice, said the governor general. He continued by saying Canada needs to make diversity work to our advantage by continuing to be an inclusive country.

And recognizing the obligation that each of us as citizens, to see that as a responsibility, he said.

Johnstons quote indigenous people unquote phrasing raised eyebrows with some listeners.

The effing Governor General doesn't know the difference between IMMIGRATION and MIGRATION and denies Indigenous people are real. https://t.co/FuRqA0HgIp  Billy, Just Billy (@BillyArmagh) June 18, 2017

The Governor General of Canada just called Indigenous people immigrants. I'm kind of pissed off about this.  Alex Powell (@aa_powell) June 19, 2017

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Save your Crown/Settler myth for your late-night bedtime stories that allow your colonial mindset to rest at night, @GGDavidJohnston.  Ryan McMahon (@RMComedy) June 17, 2017

GGs Order of Canada ceremony apology

In a statement to HuffPost Canada on Monday, spokeswoman Melanie Primeau said there was no malicious intent with Johnstons choice of words.

The Governor General intended no disrespect during his interview on CBC The House when he referred to Indigenous peoples as immigrants who came to this land thousands of years ago, or by using quote/unquote in talking about Indigenous peoples, Primeau said in an email.

He has since apologized for not expressing himself correctly, recognizing that Indigenous Peoples are the original peoples of this land.

During Mondays Order of Canada ceremony, Johnston offered a correction to his tone-deaf phrasing.

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He made his comment before a room full of distinguished leaders shortlisted for their efforts in strengthening indigenous communities across the country.

And let me apologize for not expressing myself correctly on this matter recently: Indigenous peoples are the original peoples of this land, he said.
Yikes!

Joss Whedon is coming under fire on social media for a leaked Wonder Woman script he allegedly began writing in late 2005, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

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The script first appeared on Indieground Films in May and many believe it is genuine because of the Silver Pictures, watermark, 2006 date, and snappy dialogue that matches Whedons signature style, The Daily Dot reports. It had drawn vitriol at the time, which died down but resurged this week after a Twitter thread ripping into it went viral.

Raye Sashayed (@_sashayed) shared what she considered the worst parts of the script and summed up that it was "gut-deep bad, angry and depressing," especially in light of how well received Jenkinss "Wonder Woman" has been.

reading the wh*don wonder woman script was never any fun but after seeing/crying at actual WW it becomes a viscerally insulting experience  Rave Sashayed (@_sashayed) June 15, 2017

PHEW!!! i was super worried the queen of the amazons might just be regular middle aged and not in her prime at all pic.twitter.com/GdmOu4bFrt  Rave Sashayed (@_sashayed) June 15, 2017

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this script is so gut-deep bad, angry & depressing i feel like im picking on a scared nerd even tho whedon is a millionaire &i tweet in bed pic.twitter.com/56DzMAWvL4  Rave Sashayed (@_sashayed) June 16, 2017

Here it is, little girls! Your superhero movie. pic.twitter.com/2Jnk44q0mw  Rave Sashayed (@_sashayed) June 16, 2017

"To say she is beautiful is almost to miss the point. She is elemental, as natural and wild as the luminous flora surrounding. Her dark hair waterfalls to her shoulders in soft arcs and curls. Her body is curvaceous, but taut as a drawn bow. She wears burnished metal bracelets on both wrists, wide and intricately detailed. Her shift is of another era; we'd call it ancient Greek. She is barefoot," states the script's introduction to the character.

Whedon has admitted in the past he pictured Angelina Jolie while writing his version of "Wonder Woman."

The script also features an awfully racist and stereotypical portrayal of a "gangster"-type villain, has Diana sexy-dance to distract male villains and has multiple characters refer to Diana as a "bitch" and "whore."

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oh GOOD i was just WONDERING if we'd ever get some JAW-DROPPING RACIST CARICATURES in this script!!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/3ukVk8ZVqR  Rave Sashayed (@_sashayed) June 16, 2017

It also has Steve deliver this incredibly fun and empowering line, "Youre not a hero, Diana. Youre a fucking tourist." Whee!

For Whedon, a self-proclaimed champion of women in media, the negativity isn't new. He is a polarizing figure with as many critics as he has supporters.

An entire Tumblr blog, Joss Whedon Is Not A Feminist, serves to showcase what it considers examples of the the directors misogyny. Whedon has also been criticized for his depiction of Marvels Black Widow in "Avengers: Age of Ultron," where he seemingly equates being infertile with being a monster, and reduces what was a strong female character to the role of love interest for the Hulk. Others believe he fired actress Charisma Carpenter without warning from his show "Angel" because she dared to become pregnant.

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More generally, many of the criticisms levelled at Whedon simply point out that while "Buffy The Vampire Slayers" portrayal of women was groundbreaking in the 1990s, Whedons feminism is now out of date and one-note, often focusing on thin white women who are physically strong but emotionally weak.

"I wish he hadnt turned, in 20 years, from the man who wanted to see the blonde girl in the horror movie survive and thrive into the rich bastard who thought it was funny to call Natasha Romanoff a cunt on IMAX and who called her a monster for being the victim of medical abuse," one Tumblr post sums up.

Whedons feminism is now seen as out of date and one-note, often focusing on thin white women who are physically strong but emotionally weak.

Patty Jenkins 2017 film, meanwhile, isnt without its own criticisms. Several outlets have complained the film only serves to empower white women and lacks intersectionality. Others have criticized the fact that while it is directed by a woman, its written by men, and all of its producers are men except Deborah Snyder  wife of fellow producer Zack.

For Whedon's part, the writer-director has been very supportive of the final "Wonder Woman" film. The "Buffy" creator has described the film as a "goddamn delight" and hit back at critics of several women-only screenings.

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The re-emergence of Whedons script on the heels of Jenkinss "Wonder Woman" has served as a reminder of what the blockbuster could have looked like if Warner Brothers hadnt decided to take a chance on Jenkins.

Thanking the entire universe for not allowing the sexist & terrible Joss Whedon Wonder Woman to ever get made. pic.twitter.com/xZrBsjmVY4  libby  (@ladylibberty) June 15, 2017

Many fans have expressed concerns about Whedon, who is signed on to direct a "Batgirl" film for Warner Brothers, which many worry will have similar tones to the leaked script.

me reading joss whedon's original script for wonder woman and realising he's gonna direct batgirl pic.twitter.com/bfBaIVKwXZ  moony (@avxnger) June 16, 2017

Realizing that Whedon is in charge of Justice League and the Batgirl movie. pic.twitter.com/j6ch3PPmJ6  Fangirl Jeanne (@fangirlJeanne) June 16, 2017

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Hopefully Whedon finds a way to pull his feminism out of the 90s in time for his newest superhero ventures.
Montreal's renters are sharing information about how much they pay, and landlords are not happy.

A non-profit group has launched the site MyRent.quebec, where users can share and compare monthly rental rates and other details about their apartments such as utilities and whether pets are allowed.

The site shows an interactive map with hundreds of blue dots, which, when clicked, shows all the information a tenant has provided about where they live.

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MyRent.quebec's founders said they want to make the information easily and readily accessible.

Luis Nobre told CBC Montreal that having this kind of info will help tenants have a better idea if a landlord's rates are reasonable or out-of-line for the neighbourhood.

"Any common people like me would like to know what is the price, like when they travel around Montreal would like to know what is the average here for a 4 1/2 or a 5 1/2?"

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In Quebec, apartments are listed as 1 1/2, 2 1/2, 3 1/2, and so on, with the 1/2 representing a bathroom.

Landlord association says site is illegal

Denis Miron of Quebec's rental board told CTV Montreal even if a tenant finds out after signing a lease that their rent is too high, they can apply for a rent change.

"Even though he already signed his lease, he has 10 days to apply to the Regie [du logement] to fix maybe a new rent," he said.

Hans Brouillette of the landlords' association CORPIQ said collecting and sharing information about rental rates is against the law, even though apartment listings are publicly available.

"(The site) provides personal and confidential information about our leases, our rents, our incomes," Brouillette told CTV.

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But there one major problem with the website, its co-founders admit.

"Anybody can write anything on the website, but you have to give people faith and hope that most people are honest and do it for the right reasons."  Luis Nobre

Right now, users only need to enter a valid email address in order to add information, but Nobre and Fortier are hoping to add proof of address as a verification measure in the future.

"That's for sure that anybody can write anything on the website, but you have to give people faith and hope that most people are honest and do it for the right reasons," Nobre told CBC News.

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Council has voted. To the casual observer, it seems like Vision Vancouver has led the charge in finally liberating alcohol sales in Vancouver, something it has refused to support for many months. More careful review shows quite the opposite. In another sneaky Vision move, they have managed to appear to listen and take action, while actually doing the opposite. This is something of a pattern with Vision, so no one should be surprised.

You might think liquor can now be sold in supermarkets, but wait, the restrictions are so onerous that at present, there are only two supermarkets in Vancouver which would qualify to sell liquor in a store within a store model. Two. Great.

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Vision councillor Geoff Meggs, interviewed on CBC , said that he had to strike a balance between easier access and public health. He said that the health officer who spoke to city council said that liberalizing alcohol sales will lead to more death and alcohol abuse. To follow that logic through, I guess we could say that we should actually just ban alcohol altogether. I mean, if we are talking public safety as a priority.

Health officers have a duty to promote public safety, so of course they will say that they prefer less access to alcohol, but Councillor Meggs has ignored one very important view in this discussion. The view of the Vancouver public, who overwhelmingly prefer more convenient access to alcohol, like in the U.S., U.K., Europe and, well, most every western country.

Canada, with it's far more restricted alcohol access, has a higher rate of drunk driving deaths than the U.S. In fact, we have one of the worst drunk driving rates amongst wealthy countries. You would think that more restricted access would improve our standing, not make it one of the worst, so that seems to suggest that more restricted access does not equal better stats as regards alcohol abuse. Further, the death rate by alcohol in Canada is nearly double the U.K., where booze can be purchased almost anywhere. Every supermarket, gas station and corner store. So, again, if access to alcohol was the issue, wouldn't it be far higher in the U.K.?

This is truly a made up problem to support an anti-liberalization position.

Washington State had 168 alcohol-related driving deaths in 2014. In B.C., in 2013 it was 112 and it dropped to 54 in 2014. That was because of tougher rules and enforcement, not any limiting of access. Washington's population is about 40 per cent larger than B.C.'s, so we are not seeing significantly higher rates, despite the very easy access to alcohol in gas stations, Trader Joe's and everywhere in between. Further, the U.S. overall has a slightly lower rate of alcohol-related deaths than Canada. The public safety angle should be more about education and promotion of safe habits, because that is shown to make a difference -- not restricting access.

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Speaking of Trader Joe's, there is often the concern expressed that supermarkets are not able to properly regulate sales to avoid underage sales. This is more fear mongering without basis. Take Trader Joe's or Costco. They are diligent about training and making sure that alcohol is sold only to people old enough to purchase. Why? Because if they were to make a mistake, they could lose their liquor license and that would be very costly. In B.C., we allow private restaurants to serve alcohol to patrons. Imagine that: private restaurants rather than government-run restaurants. Why is that allowed if the concern is so great? Because it is monitored and regulated, and so would private liquor sale be, just as it is already in private liquor stores. This is truly a made up problem to support an anti-liberalization position.

Professor Tim Stockwell of the Centre for Addictions B.C. in Victoria, also interviewed on CBC radio, states unequivocally that these new laws are going to be dangerous for public safety in Vancouver, but as already noted, the stats do not bear this out in jurisdictions where laws are more liberal. He feels that these "liberalizations" are "the thin edge of a wedge." He says that there are more alcohol-related deaths in Canada than gun deaths. Nice job finding that stat in a country with very restrictive gun laws. You can twist stats and fear mongering to support your views. Vision Vancouver relies on the "expertise" of health officers who assert the same alarmist views. Or, more accurately, just one health officer who presented to city council.

The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health released a study comparing alcohol-related health issues, and Quebec ranked last. Quebec has the most liberal access to alcohol in the country and ranks right at the bottom in this study. Go figure.

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So despite this, Geoff Meggs and Vision feel that they need to protect us from ourselves. I hate to use the term "nanny state," but it's apt in this case. This is as good as Vision's mantra. "We know what is good for you" yet the facts do not support their views and the public is strongly in favour of wider access. It clearly doesn't matter to Vision what you and I would like, because they feel that they have an altruistic responsibility to protect us. They like to sell the idea that they have agreed to a compromise position and liberalized liquor access when, really, it's more spin.

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It's been years since the article was written, but it is still Google's number one hit for me when you search my name.

It pre-dated my card-carrying Conservative membership, but I had been assigned and written articles regarding sex when I was a freelance journalist nearly 10 years ago, trying to make ends meet and writing about everything from how to dye your poodle's hair to the second Intifada. Journalists learn variety throughout their careers. One of the first things I learned in journalism is that nothing under the sun is uninteresting to the journalist. You find a story in everyone, in everything.

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Let's count the ways writing sex columns could interfere with my work. Hmm, I count none.

I only have four children, with 36 months of pregnancy; how could I possibly atone for the rest of my feminine life with these handful of sex articles in ratio to the hundreds of others I wrote? Wait, could that possibly mean Conservatives actually thought about sex for pleasure? Was that a faux-pas in the handbook when I became a candidate? No, no it wasn't.

Let's disregard me being in North Korea, pregnant, and turning away a meal because it was dog soup with coarse hairs protruding out of the meat in the bowl.

Let's disregard years at National Defence, handling NATO files and arms proliferation. Arriving in Darfur during the genocide in 2004 and being turned away from where I was supposed to sleep because the NGO decided at the spur of the moment it was too dangerous to keep a journalist there -- but rather subject her to a night with militia known to rape and kill.

No, let's focus on the article where I talk about masturbation.

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Bombs going off in the Palestinian Territories and walking through them because I knew my terrorist interviewees were targets in the buildings I was in. Forget about it -- the elephant tattoo I got removed by laser and wrote about speaks volumes more about my character.

Director of Communications in three GoC departments and the Senate. But Google me, and I'm a sex columnist and it's an issue with PCO apparently -- said a journalist. Let's count the ways writing sex columns could interfere with my work. Hmm, I count none.

Maybe if I had been older, rounder, if I wore no makeup, or if I were a man, the fact that I wrote a handful of sex-advice columns wouldn't have been a story. But it was -- and written by a woman. Had I known I'd be so popular for these stories 10 years later, my, I could have exploited this! And, goodness, if I hadn't been knocked up so much I could have actually tried the experts' suggestions they provided for the articles -- but I had a big, beautiful pregnant belly that would have probably gotten in the way of many of the suggestions. If anyone thought they were my own creative musings I curtsy, but unfortunately I'm not that savvy.

I couldn't even fake being a Liberal like a bad fake orgasm.

Many comments from the public when this faux sex-pert became involved in politics even suggested I should be a Liberal.

Gasp! What an opportunity that could be for me right now. Too bad innately I am not. I couldn't even fake being a Liberal like a bad fake orgasm.

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Viper eyes. Transgender-looking. Sex columnist. You can decide to hate me, try to humiliate me, criticize me; that's OK, thanks for the humility you inspire... somehow despite the sex-talk tagged on to my name, I still have a job and get up and do another day in the NCR, entirely grateful that some people recognize the deliberate embarrassment that story was meant to provide not just to me but to our party.

Pfft, sex. Who needs it? Only all of humanity.

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Canadians who experience medical harm at the hands of the health-care system they pay for are often chagrined to learn that, if they pursue their legal remedies in court, they are also footing the bill to defend the very physicians they claim have harmed them. Now it seems that Canadian taxpayers have been victimized by this system, too.

In a landmark decision, a New Brunswick court found last June that the publicly subsidized Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) primarily exists to defend doctors against lawsuits and misconduct complaints. In other words, it does not provide malpractice insurance for doctors. As Madam Justice Tracey DeWare forcefully voiced: "Since its inception in 1901... at all times the CMPA has been an association of physicians, run by physicians, and for the benefit of physicians. At no time have the objectives or scope of the CMPA included any notion of protection of the public...."

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For decades, provincial governments have been funneling hundreds of millions of dollars into the CMPA under the guise that they were protecting Canadians by helping to pay for physicians' liability insurance. Since 1987, the bill paid by Ontario taxpayers to the CMPA has soared by 3,200 per cent. Not surprisingly, that fund now has a war chest of more than $3 billion. It is that kind of clout that allows the CMPA to pursue a "scorched earth" policy against victims of medical errors, where, according to some critics, it would prefer to spend five times the amount of a claim to defend a case rather than settle.

Over the years, patients and families from across Canada have written to me and shared their nightmares involving the CMPA. Many describe how they were scorched by this organization's policy.

But this is only one way in which Canadians who have been injured by avoidable medical errors are subjected to more harm when they pursue their remedies in court. In Canada, even on those rare occasions when a patient wins, she can lose. That's what happened to Allison Kooijman, whose horrific battle with cancer also saw her become a casualty of Canada's legal system.

Even on those rare occasions when a patient wins, she can lose.

Allison contacted me about her story through the free Outreach Clinic of The Center for Patient Protection, the patient and family advocacy I founded to help fight medical errors and heal the emotional harm they inflict.

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After a typically grueling and long legal process, she managed to establish to the satisfaction of a British Columbia court that some of the physicians involved in her diagnosis failed to meet the standard of care required of their profession. That's a huge obstacle and one which few patients are able to overcome, especially going up against the CMPA's 800-pound legal gorilla. But it was not enough.

The court ruled that Allison did not satisfy other legal requirements related to the harm set out in her claim and dismissed her case.

In a recent email interview, Allison (who has consented to the release of her story) described how the litigation process unleashed further waves of emotional harm which began with the initial medical disaster. "I felt like I was on a deserted island trying to navigate through it all," she told me. Feelings of abandonment and isolation are common with many patients and families who have sought legal redress, based on the experiences they have shared with me over the past several years.

After she learned of the heart-breaking results of her court case, Allison fell into a deep depression, leaving her in a troubling state of personal risk. "I was very suicidal and sought psychiatric help. I couldn't sleep. I couldn't do anything but ruminate on how wronged I felt," she recalled.

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Needless to say, the realization that she was not only paying for the health-care system that left her with life-altering injuries, but also contributing tax dollars to the defence of the doctors she claims harmed her, did not assist Allison's recovery. Like many patients who embark upon this perilous journey into Canada's medico-legal minefield, Allison admitted that she didn't even know what the CMPA was until after the trial.

Clearly, the legal system governing Canada's redress for medical blunders needs radical surgery. The first step is to end the pretense that the CMPA is an insurance liability scheme. As I have long been urging, governments need to stop shoveling millions of dollars every year into a fund that places ordinary taxpaying victims of the medical system at a disadvantage.

I have also argued that Canada needs to take the medical negligence victim out of the litigation process. Some Nordic countries, like Denmark, years ago moved away from the traditional adversarial approach to redressing medical harm by adopting a no-fault system that is less confrontational and quicker. Compensation awards are based on pain and injury -- not findings of negligence. Meeting the typically high barriers of Canada's current system are not required in order to establish a case for compensation. Awards tend to be smaller than in successful litigation (which for plaintiffs is rare in Canada), but they are much more widely disbursed.

I know only too well the staggering extent of that harm because I hear from these patients and families every day.

Just think of all the patients and families who could have been helped if even a fraction of the fortune that has been doled out to the CMPA by governments had gone instead into supporting those who have been harmed and need compensation to heal.

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Harm to patients in the Canadian hospital setting is no small matter. One major provider admits that every 17 minutes a patient dies from a preventable medical error while in hospital care. Another study claims that one in 18 patients has been harmed while in the hospital. How we deal with what I call a clear and present health-care crisis, and how fair and accessible our systems to address this harm are, is a measure of our compassion as a society, as well as common sense.

I know only too well the staggering extent of that harm because I hear from these patients and families every day. Often additional tragedies like marriage breakups, substance abuse, financial ruin and even threats of self-harm emerge to compound the damages in the aftermath of the adverse hospital experience.

Making organizations like the CMPA rich should not be the goal, or result, of provincial government policy. Protecting patients, and healing those physically and emotionally injured by the health-care system, like Allison and so many others, should be.

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OK, hear me out, please.

We all saw it happen. Fifty years' worth of abuse allegations against Bill Cosby began to surface in the year 2000. As the new millennium unfolded, 59 women came forward with stories that Cosby had either drugged them for the purpose of sex, touched them inappropriately or raped them. Cosby openly admitted to using qualudes on some of these women. When the trial started, this appeared to be an open and shut case, but as any woman who has been sexually abused will tell you, nothing is ever that simple.

The jury was gridlocked. Even Cosby's admittance was not enough for them to come to a concrete decision on his guilt, so a mistrial was declared. Not so surprisingly, there has been a public uproar over the judge's "verdict."

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In the middle of it, Camille Cosby, Bill's faithful wife since 1964, released a statement condemning the judge and DA while affirming her support for her husband (You can find the full statement here.) Again, there was an uproar.

Statement From Mrs. Camille Cosby pic.twitter.com/nfBF92BpN1  Bill Cosby (@BillCosby) June 17, 2017

Some on the Internet are calling Camille Cosby an "enabler" for throwing aside the rape allegations and standing with her husband. There are even people who are saying that Camille is justifying her husband's sick behaviour by continuing her support of him during his trial. There may be some truth to this. After all, what kind of person would continue to love a man who irreparably destroyed so many other women's lives?

As a woman who has been raped, I can tell you that it's not always that simple. And if you're out to attack Camille Cosby, you're in the wrong witch hunt.

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Let me first say that in no way am I insinuating that any of the women allegedly abused by Cosby deserve the treatment that they have had, nor do I have any reason to disbelieve them. In my mind, 59 women can't be wrong, but at the same time, I have (dare I say) some sympathy for Camille's position. Although she is a large part of the reason why men like Bill Cosby get away with sexual assault, the wife of an abuser will always find themselves in a complex and painful situation.

I think about it in terms of the Titanic. When the movie came out, people gave a lot of thought as to what it would be like being trapped on a sinking ship. Of course, we'd all like to say that we'd be heroes. We'd be the first person to help the frail old lady into one of the only remaining lifeboats, or that we'd volunteer to stay behind while we give up our seat to a child. The reality of the situation is this: when faced with a moment of complete panic and crisis, we might be one of the ones to push the other passengers overboard in order to save our own lives. Everyone's a hero in their own mind, right?

I'd like to think that I'd be one of the brave ones when the Titanic started to founder, but I very well could have been launched into a fight or flight mentality instead. (I don't know. I wasn't on the Titanic). It therefore becomes very easy for all of us to judge a person based on their decision to shove a child out of the way in order to get to the last lifeboat. But again, be realistic: you weren't there, so you can't say for sure that you wouldn't have done differently.

Crisis and love are two things that make human beings act like animals. A person faced with a traumatic situation may lash out like a starved tiger. A person in love may do something, anything, for the person they love most without thinking about the repercussions. The primal instinct of preservation is a very funny thing. Camille Cosby is dealing with a deadly double cocktail of love and trauma.

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Imagine for a moment what it would be like if someone told you that your husband, your son, your father, your brother, or your best friend of decades had sexually assaulted countless women. You would be in denial, right? I mean, you know that person so well, they've always been so wonderful, they have a big heart, they've always been there for you, they couldn't possibly... right? Take a moment and realize how difficult it would be for you to believe that someone you truly loved with your whole heart is guilty of rape?

I can imagine that Camille Cosby is still in shock. Barring that she had some involvement in any of these cases (and I pray that she does not), she is probably in a state of disbelief. To her, her husband has been her rock. More than likely, the only thing that she can do to save her from seeing the last 50 years of her life as a complete lie is to cast her blame on the judge, the District Attorney, and the women who accused her husband. And I feel for her.

As a victim, as a woman who was not believed, as someone who has had to live with the trauma of being abused for the better part of a decade, I really feel for Camille Cosby right now. What horror would she have to face in admitting that 59 women can't be wrong? Not only is she emotionally tied to Bill Cosby, but she's also tied to him financially. Breaking away from her husband would be a nightmare, in more ways than one. How do you even begin to deal with that?

Set your sights on the guy who drugged the victims, not the woman who is buried in denial.

There are limited lifeboats. The ship is going down and you don't have time to think or react. Camille Cosby is trying to save herself, and as much as we'd like to think that we'd be the selfless hero instead, who are we to say that we wouldn't shove our way to the last lifeboat with her?

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If you're going to launch a tirade against someone, launch it against who's really at fault here. Set your sights on the guy who drugged the victims, not the woman who is buried in denial. Although Camille Cosby isan enabler to some degree, but we don't know what's lurking behind the Cosby shadows. Unless she was present at the crimes, she is just another kind of victim, whether she knows it or not. Bill Cosby, in all his decimated glory, is the one who deserves to take the fall.

I imagine that Camille Cosby is going to have a lot more to deal with soon enough. Let's leave her to it. One day, she'll find out that whatever lies buried will be exhumed. And that is far worse than anything the public could spit out at her right now.

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About 15 years ago, it was widely publicized that men and women came from "different planets," and therefore did not speak the same language.

I not only disagree with this notion, I take offence to it.

While that book isn't filling everyone's bookshelves in 2017, there are still many people who conclude and advocate that men and women are completely different in the way they communicate. Hogwash, I say!

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In the same way that there are different versions of English (American, Canadian, British, Australian), there are different styles of communication and they are not exclusive to gender.

Some communicators are more direct than others. Some prefer to hint at what they want; some hope that others can read their mind. This has nothing to do with being male or female. Sex does not dictate communication style.

I was reading a communications book by a well-known writer who would disagree with me. She told a story about a man and a woman out for a Sunday drive. The woman in the story said to the man, "Would you like to stop for a coffee?" He said, "No." and continued to drive on. The woman in the story was very upset by his lack of consideration. Apparently, by not returning the question, he was being rude. The man in the story didn't see it that way at all. Therefore, the author concludes, men and women come from different planets and don't speak the same language.

I would never do what the woman in the story did (and clearly, I am female). If I wanted to stop for a coffee, I would say, "I would love a coffee. Let's stop at the next Tim Hortons we see." Before buying my coffee, I would ask the person I was with if he wanted one as well. My mind says that if I want something, I should be direct and ask for it. It also teaches me to be polite and ask the other person as well. My way of expressing my wishes allows my needs to be met (coffee) without issuing an order to the other person. If there was a reason why we could not stop for coffee, the driver had an opportunity to say so. I wasn't ordering him to stop, I was stating my needs, and he could choose to stop or not. There would be no misunderstandings in my statement.

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You are either a direct or an indirect communicator.

This has nothing to do with being female, and everything to do with being a direct communicator.

You are either a direct or an indirect communicator. If you make your point clearly without hinting or beating around the bush, you are likely a direct communicator. If you ask the other person an indirect question, or make an indirect statement, such as, "would you like to stop for a coffee?" when what you are really saying is, "I would like to stop for a coffee, would you like one too?" then you are an indirect communicator. You aren't from another planet, you are indirect.

I can choose to be indirect. I can say things like, "perhaps there is another way to view this situation" or I can be direct and say, "let's look at another point of view." I can hint that for Christmas I want diamond earrings, or I can find them in the catalogue and tape a picture of them to the refrigerator with the label "My Christmas List." It is my choice, and my communication is not dictated by an X or a Y chromosome.

In my opinion, allowing excuses such as "women communicate indirectly and men communicate directly," excuses the way women communicate. If women communicate indirectly, they are choosing to be misunderstood. Why would you ever knowingly choose that?

It is your choice. There are no excuses. Do you want to hint at what you want and need in this life and maybe get it, or do you want to increase the odds and be direct?

I know what works best for me. Let's stop for coffee and talk about it!
Homage is being paid to one of the greatest goddesses of the past, in the mountains of Central Italy.

The Cybil or Cybele was the Magna Mater, the Mother of the Gods in the far east and then later in the Mediterranean according to Herodotus. Herodotus describes the sacking of the Cybele temple at Sardis in 498 B.C., which was apparently a magnificent structure 'formed of blocks of white marble of an enormous size' (Herodotus, Everyman's Library 1910:435).

The historian Domenico Francesconi (1982) relates that the Romans brought a statue of the Cybele from Pergamon to Rome in 205 B.C. and this focused popular attention to the idea of the Cybele or Sibyl in the Monti Sibillini.

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In those times Cybeles were numerous. Varro, writing in the first century B.C., describes 10 Cybeles in various parts of the Mediterranean and further east.

The cave in the Sibillini Mountains where the Sibyl lived, was likely first used as a site for earth worshiping during the Bronze Age, according to hermit and historian, Padre Pietro, Lavini (1998).

Sibyls were famous for prophesying, yet these powerful women were also believed to be custodians of ancient traditions in their use of plants, knowledge of medicine, ancient customs and elucidating the mysteries of nature, as described by historian Erika Maderna (2012).

This month, Maria Sonia Baldoni, the main exponent of the Italian national programme, Case delle Erbe

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https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/../../tamara-griffiths/a-new-year-and-a-new-life_b_13995194.html

held a workshop entitled "Encountering the Sybil".

Her aim was to reconnect women to traditional knowledge that we are loosing, with a focus on female archetypes and uses of wild plants.

Participants ranged in age and nationality, including a woman from Quebec, and one from Romania, and Israel, as well as north and south Italy.

I asked Erica from Northern Italy why she choose to participate. I learned she is a forager and preparer of wild foods as a profession. She explained:

"I was attracted to foraging because I wanted to find an alternative way of living, outside of the patriarchy, outside of society. As I followed this route I learned a lot. Here in this training I've learned how working with plants connects the micro to the macro. I mean, we are studying the form of a petal, and then that connects to a conversation with a global perspective.'

Gabriela from Romania, said:

"I've learned how to identify plants and people - people's psychology. The families of plants are like groups of personality types. I feel more relaxed and more confident."

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Another participant, Lisa, who works as a counsellor in a large urban centre said:

"This training helped me to see the archetypes in nature, which is useful for my work. Maria Sonia has shown us how the sacred is part of daily gestures. This is an open type of spirituality that people from different religions can be part of. I often work with people who have suffered trauma from traditional religions, so this is interesting for me."

As well as learning traditional knowledge and earth honoring customs, Maria Sonia, who is a wild plant specialist, focused on practical knowledge regarding harvesting, drying and preparing wild plants for consumption. As she said to me: "This is information you don't find on the internet. It is knowledge you learn by doing."

As well as harvesting the right plants at the right time, they must be dried correctly, once dry one must know how many days before they can be used, and finally understand the proportions for mixing them for remedial impact.

Maria Sonia explained to the group:

"We are walking between two worlds now," she said. "On one hand there is the world of the pharmaceutical industry and on the other the world of ancient knowledge. We have to do our work to the highest standard to maintain credibility. We can't produce vast quantities like a pharmaceutical factory. But we can be organized and start co-operatives, and build a relationship of trust based on quality."

Serena from Quebec said:

"I know the plants in the Laurentians better than I do here, but I really like participating in this. We are finding solutions for human needs based on ancient traditions. I'm interested in the role of the Cybele as a healer and in female health practitioners. I studied anthropology and I'm very interested in traditional knowledge."

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(Participants spread ashes of wood that was burnt during the workshop, to heighten intuition. Replacing the ashes back in nature completes the cycle and the workshop.)

Interestingly, four of the eleven participants were studying or had studied anthropology.

"I would like to spend every day like this," Serena continues. "Being outdoors, the health, the solidarity, and learning, it's fantastic. When I see the richness of nature all around me, like it is here, I stop fearing scarcity. I feel balanced."

Looking at this group of animated, vibrantly healthy and beautiful faces, one senses that although this is but a single drop in an ocean, it's a drop making a ripple of growing circumference.

Over the year workshops are being arranged in all of the locations in Italy where Cybeles historically resided.

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For information and possibility of free translation French/ Italian, or English/ Italian for participants contact: fabriziacorradini@gmail.com
After thirty years of a political consensus which broadly accepted Thatcherism as the reality the first big sign of a change has come. We ran on the most left-wing platform that Labour has offered for thirty years and ran perhaps the best General Election campaign ran by Labour in the last 40+ years, the result has been the largest surge in Labour's share of the vote since Clement Attlee became Prime Minister. It feels as though the opening of Chris Mullin's novel A Very British Coup nearly became reality - though it is worth reiterating that we aren't there yet.

The result was sensational and it is worth pointing out that Labour's manifesto was most likely more popular than either Corbyn or the Labour Party itself. That is, a manifesto described as the most left-wing since the 1980s has proved to be wildly popular and has given the British left a new lease of life. Those in the Parliamentary Labour Party who decried Corbyn's programme back in 2015, and some far more recently, have effectively been proved wrong. Rent controls, mass building of social housing, public ownership of water and rail, taxing the wealthy and abolition of tuition fees have now been proved to be credible policy.

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To the surprise of most people, including to some extent myself, Corbynmania has caught on. In the past such large surges in Labour's support have taken years to erode and it's therefore fair to assume that unelectability has just become a thing of the past for Labour. Jeremy Corbyn's unlikely cheerleaders now include John McTernan, Polly Toynbee, Dan Hodges, Alistair Campbell, Chuka Umunna and Harriet Harman. Blairites, Brownites, Fabians and Milibandites are now flocking to the leadership and emerging as Born-Again Corbynistas. Neil Kinnock, who has probably been the most strident critic of Corbyn amongst the living former leaders of the party, has been oddly quiet since the result - though Corbyn has passed the criteria Kinnock recently set for the election to be a success ('Labour gains, Tory losses').

Corbyn now has a real mandate. Both to shift Labour toward a vision of a members-led party and to entrench the left's political vision. Labour's next manifesto is likely to look very similar to the 2017 offering. Reforming Labour's structures, with the aspiration of injecting more democracy into an overly bureaucratic party, can begin, but changing the party will be a big task. Nonetheless Corbyn now has near-unnassailable authority to change things in the party and opposition to the so-called McDonnell amendment will inevitably soften.

Exactly what Labour should do next is unclear. A future election within the next 12 months is likely, and Labour now has a very strong change of winning any such election. May has left herself without a majority, at the helm of the least stable Tory government since Heath was Prime Minister. At the time of writing Labour is on 45% and there is much to be optimistic about, though there is also room for improvement in order to ensure Labour remains on an upward trajectory. The issues with Labour's stances on defence and national security need to be ironed out, but Labour should not tack to the centre on those issues as Paul Mason recently implied in the Guardian. Instead Corbyn needs to rehearse Labour's defence strategies and pursue a line independent of the staunch centrism of New Labour.

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There were a few avoidable mistakes during the campaign, even besides defence, but this simply shows that the Labour left's potential is huge and that this election can be a springboard for a government predicated on radical reform of British politics and the UK economy.

There are still important questions to be asked. Firstly, how much was Labour's GE campaign a defensive campaign and could a future GE campaign targeting Tory held-marginals yield a Labour majority? Next, how much has Corbyn shifted the Overton Window, and can it be shifted more? Three years ago it would be unthinkable to think somebody like John McTernan was endorsing public ownership (in fact he was decrying it, and endorsing privatisation of healthcare). Now UK politics appears to be rapidly opening up to the ideas of the left, though there are areas where we still need to make progress.

In 1987 and in '92 Labour was pledging to abolish the 11+, yet no iteration of this made it into the manifesto, though I would presume Corbyn and Angela Rayner would like to see a country free from the archaic system of selective education. Likewise, we ought to look at the potential benefits and the viability of a written constitution, public control of banking, reform of media ownership and changes to Thatcher's trade union laws. Labour is on the verge of changing Britain and we now need constant debate on how much positive change can be enacted.
Division has been a defining feature of UK politics in the past few years: the fiercely fought and highly contentious EU referendum a year ago split the electorate almost exactly in half; the Scottish National Party renewed calls for an independence referendum scarcely two years since their unsuccessful campaign; and the Labour party has been plagued until recently by infighting between the leadership and the parliamentary party. Meanwhile, the UK faces the most significant negotiations in modern history, certainly in the past 40 years.

Instead of promoting unity, the government under Theresa May has taken a unilateral approach. Since May took over her party and the government last July, her leadership has been characterised by a bullish refusal to be transparent about her party's plans for Brexit. She was reluctant, for example, to release a white paper on her negotiating position, and in her Lancaster House speech took a strong stand against scrutiny, telling the public: "those who urge us to reveal more... will not be acting in the national interest." With negotiations starting imminently, the government seems intent on ploughing ahead with their previous plans without consulting the opposition on their decision to start negotiations before a deal with the DUP has been finalised, and before the House of Commons has even formally returned.

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This is part of an even broader trend towards decreasing government transparency, and a concentration of power in the hands of the executive. For example, the Institute for Government recently reported a marked trend under the Conservatives of an increase in the number of Freedom of Information responses being withheld. We live in an age where power in UK politics is overwhelmingly held by the executive, and a Prime Minister that refuses to be open to scrutiny threatens to undermine our democratic processes. Democracy is not only about casting a vote in an election; without a written constitution to clearly define the rights of the people and limitations on the powers of government, it is increasingly challenging to effectively hold the UK government to account.

In April, May went before the country and asked the electorate to endorse her Brexit approach. She criticised the dissent from the opposition parties claiming that "division in Westminster will risk our ability to make a success of Brexit". However, instead of the resounding approval of a landslide majority she was expecting to receive, the Conservatives lost seats which resulted in a hung Parliament. The public rejected the scrutiny shy, unilateral approach to Brexit negotiations.

An inclusive, consensus based approach is not just constitutionally and democratically, important but as the result of the election, it is now a practical necessity. The Conservatives will be reliant on the DUP to pass key legislation, forcing them to pay greater attention the unique needs of Northern Ireland. The 13 new Scottish Conservative MPs will also play an important role. Their leader Ruth Davidson recently called on Theresa May to "look again at their Brexit strategy". To what extent will the Scottish Conservatives act as a caucus with a different Brexit agenda to their English and Welsh colleagues?

Even with their 'confidence and supply' deal the government's working majority hangs on a knife edge, and May will no longer be able to make decisions without the support of her backbenchers. The party's electoral position is now far more precarious. Without serious efforts to understand the wishes of the electorate on the most significant constitutional change in modern times, it remains unclear whether the government could survive another election.

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Mirroring the country, Unlock Democracy members and supporters were divided on Brexit; some see it as a bright opportunity for national renewal, others fear it will mean the end of hard won rights and freedoms. We started our Democratic Brexit project immediately after the referendum to bring people from all sides of the debate to explore what taking back control of our democracy might look like, and how Brexit could lead to a different type of democracy.

Unlock Democracy's latest report, 'A Democratic Brexit: Avoiding Constitutional Crisis in Brexit Britain,' highlights the constitutional issues that have permitted such an executive dominated Brexit process so far. It also provides recommendations as to how a more inclusive and democratic Brexit could be achieved. It considers how Parliament, the devolved legislatures and the people could be involved throughout. Brexit could be a real chance to restore the health of our ailing democracy by undertaking a large scale deliberative and inclusive movement to collectively shape the future of our country. Alternatively, we could see the government undertake the largest power grab in modern times.
The United Nations Ocean Conference underlined the need for an integrated approach to the blue economy, one which supports jobs and livelihoods while conserving the environment. A new Blue Charter of principles for sustainable ocean development may be the answer, writes Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland

Ours is a blue planet. The ocean, which covers more than two thirds of the Earth's surface, is home to an incredible variety of species. It is a source of sustenance, prosperity and sheer wonder for humankind.

Almost half a century ago, on 24 December 1968 aboard Apollo 8, astronaut Bill Anders took a photograph of the Earth rising above the surface of the Moon. 'Earthrise' was the name given to this picture which captured the world's imagination.

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The photograph remains one of the most profound images ever created, offering us a reminder of the planet's fragile existence: a jewel among a galaxy of stars and the only place in the universe known to host life. But for a predominantly blue world, 'Earthrise' seems misnamed. I prefer to call it 'Oceanrise'.

For millennia the ocean has blessed humanity with bountiful resources. In many coastal communities, small-scale fishing still provides families with their main source of food and income, while millions more rely on sectors including offshore energy, coastal tourism and maritime transport.

However climate change, overexploitation, pollution and inequity in the sharing of marine resources mean there are real risks to the future of those who depend on the ocean. Global fish stocks are under severe pressure with up to 90 percent either fished to full capacity or depleted through overfishing, while renewable offshore energy resources as well as deep-sea minerals remain untapped.

At the same time, despite accounting for a substantial proportion of the ocean workforce, the contribution of groups such as women and young people is often ignored in commercial decisions and public policy-making. This has an impact on their financial independence, social status and livelihoods.

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All of these concerns underline why last week's United Nations Ocean Conference, the first of its kind, was so critically important. Co-chaired by the governments of Fiji and Sweden, the high-level summit at the UN General Assembly in New York was held to help countries chart a course to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 14 to "conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources".

The conference resulted in a call for action which aims to protect the oceans while also respecting the right of countries to sustainably develop their blue economy. At the conclusion, over 1300 voluntary commitments had been tabled, as governments and private and civil society partners outlined steps they are taking to make good on the vision of SDG 14.

It was especially encouraging to see the commitments lodged by Commonwealth member countries. The world is now on track to protect over 10 percent of marine areas by 2020. Countries are seeking to share innovative technologies, to give consumers greater choice in sourcing sustainable fish, to find a common approach to dealing with harmful subsidies, to eliminate harmful plastics and reduce sewage and pollution.

On behalf of the Commonwealth Secretariat, I was pleased to recommit our support to member countries especially vulnerable and small island developing states. I was also heartened to witness widespread support for our proposal to create a Blue Charter of principles for sustainable ocean development.

The Blue Charter will apply the values of the Commonwealth Charter - including democracy, good governance and the commitment to fairness and equity - to a regenerative model of sustainable development. It will marry the goal of unlocking economic value from the seas with the imperative of protecting the environment. It recognises that ocean wealth depends on ocean health.

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Described by one government as a potential 'game changer', this accord will help countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, Americas and the Pacific to develop an integrated approach to ocean governance. This means considering the needs of the smallest and most at risk nations and marginalised groups, including overlooked sectors such as artisanal fishing as well as women and young people.

The Blue Charter will complement the support already offered by the Commonwealth Secretariat to help countries manage their marine resources. For three decades, we have assisted more than 30 countries to claim their maritime territory under international law and to develop policy and legislative frameworks for the development of offshore renewables, petroleum and deep-sea mining, while ensuring the benefits of these industries are shared equitably.

Of all the inheritances we will pass on to future generations there is no greater asset than our ocean. Last week's Ocean Conference was about harnessing our shared determination and building successful partnerships in support of this lasting legacy. It is important to recognise however that we are only at the beginning of a journey which will require many hard choices ahead.

As Fiji's Prime Minister J.V. Bainimarama so ably expressed, "While Pacific nations rightly identify ourselves as stewards of the ocean in our own part of the world, we cannot save our waters on our own. And nor can the nations of the Caribbean or coastal nations of Africa. A collective global effort is required."
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As MPs return to business this week who among the new intake should we be watching out for? These are my top tips.

Bim Afolami, Hitchin and Harpenden, Con

Senior executive at HSBC and corporate lawyer Afolami is a former Treasurer of the Bow Group and was Vice President of the Oxford Union. Heavily involved in mentoring young people who are young entrepreneurs he voted Remain in the referendum and has described himself as a Cameron moderniser. Will be keen to get his teeth into the Conservative Party's economic policy having worked with ex-Chancellor George Osborne in the previous parliament.

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Alex Burghart, Brentwood and Ongar, Con

Burghart was previously adviser on social justice in the Prime Minister's Policy Unit and before that Director of Strategy for the Children's Commissioner. From 2012 to 2016 he was Director of Policy at the Centre for Social Justice, where he worked closely with Fiona Hill on modern slavery. Will be keen to ensure the new government develops a stronger focus on social reform and tackling the root causes of poverty - an area of policy that Theresa May has so far neglected.

Anneliese Dodds, Oxford East, Lab

Dodds is a former MEP for South East England and senior lecturer in Public Policy at Aston University having previously held research posts at the LSE. During her time as a member of the European Parliament she sat on the Committee for Economic and Monetary Affairs, using her position to campaign for better regulation of the financial markets and SMEs. Expect her to have a key role for Labour on the Brexit negotiations.

Gillian Keegan, Chichester, Con

Chichester's first female MP she sat on Chichester District Council where she was cabinet member for commercial services. Keegan left her local comprehensive aged 16 to begin an engineering apprenticeship before later going on to pursue a successful career in IT. She contested the constituency of St Helens South and Whiston in the 2015 General Election, and is a member of the Board of Governors for Western Sussex NHS Trust. Likely to develop a significant role supporting the Department for Education around Further Education issues and apprenticeships.

Rachel Maclean, Redditch, Con

Technology entrepreneur who has built two businesses Maclean stood as a candidate for Birmingham Northfield at the last General Election. She founded Skills and Ready, a business to support young people prepare for the world of work and has served 15 years as a Scout leader and a School governor. She was co-chair of Andy Street's successful West Midlands mayoral campaign and has helped develop the "Birmingham baccalaureate" aimed at enhancing employability in the region. Will be at the forefront of ongoing Conservative efforts to win over more of the West Midlands.

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Neil O'Brien, Harborough, Con

Former SpAd for both the Chancellor and the PM on the economy and digital strategy, he ran Policy Exchange and before that Open Europe. He was named in the Daily Telegraph as one of the "Top 100 Most Influential People on the Right" and in the Sunday Times as one of the "New Political Elite" and was awarded an OBE in David Cameron's resignation honours list. The intellectual force behind the Northern Powerhouse he is set to keep a low profile for now but will look to gain an influential hand on the Midlands Engine as this parliament progresses.

Ellie Reeves, Lewisham West and Penge, Lab

Wife of John Cryer, the MP and present Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party and sister of Rachel Reeves, has practiced as a barrister specialising in maternity rights at employment tribunals. She was a candidate on the Progress and Labour First list of NEC candidates last year, but was defeated when the Momentum candidates won through. Her position to the left of the party and her significant party connections means she's well placed for a Labour front bench position.

Bob Seely, Isle of Wight, Con

With the largest Conservative vote in the country, Seely has a colourful CV having worked as a foreign correspondent for The Times and Washington Post, plus service as a captain in the Territorial Army. He recently worked as an adviser at Conservative central Office, was presented with the military MBE earlier this year, and studied at Kings College London, preparing for a PhD on the subject of Russian non-conventional warfare. During his time on the Isle of Wight council he has campaigned strongly for a consultation on further devolution plans and against overdevelopment. Expect a junior ministerial post soon.

Dr Paul Williams, Stockton South, Lab
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We need to talk about the treatment of public service workers. This is a subject that was and continues to be at the forefront of Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour campaign and work. It's a subject which has been at the centre of tory cuts for over 7 years. I want to talk in particular about the fire service, the work they do and the to be frank, abysmal wage they receive in return for risking their lives day in day out to save and protect people in society.

We watched as a horrific fire engulfed the 27 floor tower block in West London yesterday in a way that no building should in 2017 in the richest borough in the United Kingdom, a country with some of the worlds stricted fire safety regulations. We heard unbelievable stories of rescue and survival, pictures of exhausted fire fighters who had worked through the night and scenes of hope and unity as the communities of London rallied around to ensure those who needed help got help and those who needed a listening ear had one.

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Over 250 fire fighters flooded to the tower, the first arriving 6 minutes after the first call. Dany Cotton, commissioner of the London Fire Brigade described the fire as the worst she's seen in her career of almost 30 years, she also described facing the decision of sending crews into the building to save those begging for help from the windows of the nightmare blaze. Fire fighters are in their nature, extremely modest and humble beings and that remains to show.

The starting salary for a trainee fire fighter is just 22,017 which is over 4,000 shy of the average wage in the UK, once training is complete it rises to 29,345 which is an improvement but still less than London Tube Drivers, Sandwich Shop Managers and Immigration Officers, for example. It simply does not commute that people who's job and passion is to save and protect their fellow humans against one of the most aggressive forces in daily life are paid so little.

Not only this Boris Johnson as Mayor of London in 2014 slashed London fire services by closing 10 fire stations across the capital and putting an end to 552 jobs when challenged he simply told Labour Assembly Leader Andrew Dismore to 'get stuffed'. Upon the closure of the stations, fire fighters wept in despair at the cuts being opposed on them making their jobs harder and it has recently been suggested that there has been a 15% increase in fire-related deaths as a result of cuts across the UK.

There have been so many government led attacks on funding and rights of police, health and fire services over the last 7 years. One nurse recently challenged the Theresa May over pay on a special edition of Question Time in the run up to the election and the Prime Minister simply waved her arms about and mumbled something about not having a magic money tree she can shake. According to reports Theresa May declared Austerity is over to her MP's in a recent meeting, that remains to be seen and I, like many will remain to be wary of such a declaration.

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I have now, after what feels like the longest three years of my life, finished University. Three years of tears, meltdowns, weight-gain and general life-expectancy-decreasing stress, and I am free as a bird. If you too have reached the end of your academic careers, I hope you are sleeping well knowing that Harvard referencing and 14-hour library stints are now over, forever.

If you're still in the midst of exam season, well, I'm sorry, but some of us have served our time and enjoying the new-found freedom from our BSc's.

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I'm not quite sure what I expected after submitting my final essay to Turnitin, perhaps an explosion of party poppers and Beyonce's 7/11 to start playing in the background. Unfortunately, this (shockingly) didn't happen, but I did experience a sense of calm, like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. It was a strange feeling, like spending 3 hours cooking a lasagne from scratch, and waiting for your boyfriend to come home to confirm whether the ratio of bechamel sauce to pasta is right, or whether it's time to order a Chinese. For a lot of people, University was an amazing experience, but if you've read my posts before you might be aware it's been an uphill struggle for me, so I'm quite relieved it's all over.

Anyway, in recent months I had noticed that everyone I know seems to be going on holiday. This is not an exaggeration, I am not being dramatic, there is no hyperbole. Every person on my Instagram feed appears to be traveling to Thailand for a month, off for two weeks in Marbella, or going to Australia for summer. Some of them have begun their travels, and some are still uploading #PreIbizaGym selfies.

Well then, I thought to myself, if everyone else is off then I don't want to be stuck here for Britain's 'summer'.

A few days after my final essay was due, I sat down at my computer and opened Expedia on the premise of booking a nice summer break. Nothing too fancy, just a long week in the sun with a hundred vodka lemon limes and a 34C beach to lay on. If you didn't already know, I work part-time in Sainsbury's, and compared to the average 21-year-old I think I am quite sensible with money, excluding the odd ASOS splurge. I have worked a fair number of hours this year and managed to save a little for a rainy day, or rainy 4 months. This is not meant to sound bragging, I'm just saying I try to be good so that in return good things happen to me, such as a 1st in my degree and a 100k p/a job to appear in my email inbox.

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However, after a few hours on TravelRepublic, Booking.com and TravelSupermarket, I realised I must have been a mass murderer in a past life. How are my fellow students booking city breaks to Venice and three-weeks in Dubai, when a weekend in Devon is the top end of my budget. If cheap holidays are out there, either I can't find them or they're all gone and Expedia are trying to rob me in broad daylight.

Hold on one moment, I thought to myself, how is everyone else affording these summer breaks, while I'm stuck in Birmingham working 6 shifts a week? I've done my time, I've written my essays and read my journal articles, why can't I have fun like everyone else?

However, despite my realisation that Morocco may need to be crossed off the list, this post is not just about the extortionate cost of holidays. They say the grass isn't always greener, and a few months ago I thought life would take off once my degree was over...this has not yet been the case. I may be finished studying, but I am still searching for that perfect graduate job and working near-full time at Sainsbury's and so are a lot of others.

I began to feel very disheartened at the thought of everyone else swanning off and having the time of their lives once University was finished, but in reality, most undergraduates I know are probably in the same situation. If you've already started your career then congratulations, and if you're living back at home with no clue what to do next, then don't worry.
Since the announcement of Brexit, there has been a considerable increase in reports of racism, hate crime and racist incidents across the UK. These types of incidents have largely been random and directed at anyone perceived to be "not British".

Perhaps most worrying though is that a lot of teachers have also reported seeing a rise in the number of children experiencing racist incidents in the classroom. Police figures show reports of hate crimes and incidents in schools rose by 89% in the middle of the Brexit campaign.

This has led to calls by many for more to be done, not only in terms of helping teachers know how to better cope and deal with these types of incidents, but also for children to have more of an education and understanding of racism along with Britain's multicultural heritage.

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A recent survey of teachers into the issue highlighted a "lack of confidence, training and support" in this area. Teachers questioned were in "overwhelming agreement" that anti-racist education should be integrated into the curriculum - with 90% of teachers strongly believing that this was the way forward.

I've been trying to do this for years - I think it is of the utmost importance. However, staff mostly avoid conversations about race and religion for fear of opening a can of worms.

A climate of racism

The Scottish government has been looking further into this issue. Researchers from the Moray House School of Education in Edinburgh recently provided evidence to the Scottish Parliament's Equalities and Human Rights Committee. And they called for "race" to be put "explicitly back on the agenda" in schools so that racist views could be challenged in the classroom.

They added that teachers were currently "reluctant and anxious" about addressing racism in the classroom, and called for updated advice to be provided. They also spoke of the need to have a better way of recording incidents of racist bullying and harassment in schools.

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In a separate submission to the committee, the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), a teaching union, said it was also concerned that inflammatory language used by politicians and the media may be fuelling racist bullying in schools.

The report said:

The current political discourse around immigration is creating a climate which will exacerbate bullying and harassment of refugee and asylum-seeking children, and children from visible [or] audible ethnic minorities, who are or are perceived to be refugees or migrants. We fear that current narratives about 'migrants' in the tabloid media put certain children at greater risk of bullying and harassment.

In response to this the EIS, produced three guides, for different age ranges, to help challenge misconceptions about immigration and asylum-seekers. These are being sent to all nurseries, schools, colleges and universities in Scotland.

Anti-racist curriculum

There have also been calls for more focus on these types of issues across the curriculum. The Association of Teachers and Lecturers recently carried out a survey on the topic. It showed that 84% of teachers questioned believe education about hate crime, hate speech and discrimination should form part of mandatory lessons on the subject.

In the same survey, 33% of the teachers questioned said they hadn't received any training on how to deal with hate crime or speech - but that they would like some.

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Off the back of this, the general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, Mary Bousted, said that:

The Government needs to produce updated guidance that includes discussion of hate crime and speech and encourages critical thinking.

Similarly, Tell MAMA - a national project which records and measures anti-Muslim incidents in the UK - believes that both Ofsted and the Department for Education should consider anti-Muslim bullying and hate in their evaluations of schools.

This would ensure that teaching staff are adequately trained to identify challenge, and combat bigotry towards Muslims in the classroom. And this is especially important considering that Tell MAMA's data suggested the largest proportion of incidents involved perpetrators aged between 13 and 18.

Talking about racism

By introducing these types of programmes into schools, children could learn about both the continuing and changing nature of racism in British society, which is discussed in detail in my new book.

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Programmes to tackle racism could encourage children to find out more about the historical multicultural nature of British society, dating back centuries, along with the influence and positive impact this has had on UK society.

Children could also look at the very crux of the issue to try and understand more about what racism actually is - discussing issues such as how racism isn't always based on skin colour, as well as how "race" is a social construct.

But ideas aside, ultimately given these new increased levels of racism are being experienced widely both on the streets and in classrooms, programmes are something that needs to be implemented sooner rather than later.

And as the gap in the opinion polls narrows and a Corbyn-led progressive government seems less remote, there are cautious grounds for optimism.

Mike Cole, Professor of Education, specialising in racism and politics, University of East London
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Any leader is defined by their capabilities and the context in which they act. Some excellent leaders can be derailed by an unfortunate change in circumstances. Equally, some poor leaders are able to fly under the radar through periods of relative stability. Until this week, Theresa May appeared to be the former; now it is almost certain that she is the latter - a limited leader whose personal foibles have been exposed by the collapse of political order.

It was not always so. In her first 10 months in power, May appeared to have united a deeply divided Conservative party and rallied the country around a vision of Brexit that was entirely her own. Some early election polling put her on more than 50% of the vote, unprecedented in modern British political history. How things have changed. Like the Great and Powerful Wizard of Oz, the artifice of May's supremacy has been pulled away, exposing a rather smaller figure behind the curtain. The real May, it seems, lacks the four key leadership qualities required to steer Britain through the minefield of Brexit.

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1. Complex problems need complex thinking

Brexit is an enormously complex problem, but May seemingly lacks the capacity to deal with complex problems of any scale. Now that she has lost her majority, the Prime Minister will have to balance a range of irreconcilable domestic interests and fashion a coherent British response to EU-led negotiations. Some of the British position can be decided in advance, but much of it will be ad hoc and dynamic, based on EU demands and concessions. Negotiations are rarely linear.

It is concerning, then, that May has a track record of thinking in a linear 'command and control' manner. At the Home Office, this seems to have worked well: she successfully pushed through the Investigatory Powers bill against broad opposition. But at Number 10, May's role has become ever more complex - managing the fortunes of the country, rather than specific policy areas. Her failure to adapt has cost her dearly. Her decision to call an election was, for example, privately criticised by Tory guru Lynton Crosby on the grounds that 'international politics were too unsettled, the risks were too great.' Crosby was right; May, on the other hand, felt that the course of the election could be controlled. Britain needs a leader able to recognise and adapt to the complexities thrown up by Brexit.

2. Stronger together

If Theresa May is to deliver Brexit, she will need to collaborate with the increasingly fractious Tory backbenchers, other parties in the House of Commons and the EU negotiators in Brussels. This flies in the face of May's strategy to date which has been to exclude all but her inner circle from decision making - a strategy which ultimately lost her the election. Her refusal to recognise Tory concerns about a deal with the DUP suggests that she has not learned to cooperate.

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Collaboration can be a powerful tool of government. In the period from 1945 to 1951, Clement Attlee's government created the welfare state, the NHS and a consensus on how to manage the economy that endured for some 30 years. All of this was achieved despite Attlee's lack of charisma. Instead, his approach to govern with his leadership team, rather than above them, running open and collaborative Cabinet meetings and delegating work to those most capable of managing it - the revered Aneurin Bevan, for example, was tasked with forcing through the creation of the NHS.

Attlee understood what May does not: leadership is earned, not gifted. May's conceit has been to believe herself untouchable - above her followers. This attitude will only make a successful Brexit harder to achieve.

3. Out of Touch

Puyi, the last Emperor of China was in fact four emperors. In the territory of Mongolia, Puyi was known as the Great Khan; in Tibet, he was consecrated as the Buddhist deity Mahakala; in mainland China, he was hailed as the 'Son of Heaven'; and to his Manchu kinsmen, he was clan leader. To each constituency he represented, the Chinese Emperor displayed a different face. In return, these diverse ethnic groups remained loyal.

This is a powerful lesson for political leadership today. In all countries, politicians must try to represent a broad church of people and when polities are particularly divided, leaders have a particular responsibility bring them together. Britain needs this style of leadership more than ever.

At first, Theresa May successfully positioned herself as a representative leader. Her barnstorming speech at the 2016 Tory party conference reclaimed the fabled 'centre ground' of British politics, appealing to Conservative and Labour voters, and delivering her an enormous lead over the Opposition in the polls.

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Since then, however, two-faced Theresa has become increasingly one-dimensional. She has alienated voters from the Celtic fringe by refusing to give them a role in Brexit negotiations. She has alienated Remain voters willing to accept the referendum result but unwilling to countenance hard Brexit. Finally, she has alienated broad swathes of the population whose primary concern is now the ailing system of public services - Grenfell Tower merely the latest in a long line of gaffes which began with the dementia tax in May.

All politicians speak the language of national unity, but only real leaders actively represent the country at large. Theresa May no longer does.

4. A Good Old-Fashioned Crisis

There is nothing like a good old-fashioned crisis to reveal the true character of a leader. In 1956, British and French troops were parachuted into Egypt to force the reopening of the Suez Canal, leading to a humiliating defeat for both countries. British Prime Minister Anthony Eden resigned within a year.

The Grenfell Tower fire may yet be Theresa May's Suez. Crises require leadership - in explaining the causes of the crisis and the appropriate responses, in defining the meaning of the crisis and learning the appropriate lessons from it. In all these respects, the Prime Minister has failed, symbolised by her refusal to meet with residents affected by the fire. Brexit will undoubtedly produce many more crises before it is complete, but May seems unlikely to navigate them successfully.
Hannah Mckay / Reuters

The Queen got it right - and Theresa May got it wrong. Everyone agrees that Britain's 91-year-old monarch, going to meet victims of the Grenfell Tower disaster, responded much better to the tragedy than Britain's Prime Minister did.

But trying to be fair to Mrs May - not an exercise I often undertake - the Royal Family, and particularly the Queen herself, have had the chance to learn from lessons past. Not only the lessons learnt after Diana's death (the twentieth anniversary of which we commemorate this summer), but one from much earlier in her reign. It's a case of 'third time lucky', basically.

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It was in the mid-1960s - the second decade of the Queen's reign, when the initial enthusiasm that had greeted her was beginning to die away. The monarchy could no longer rely on unquestioning support - and in the changing times, the Queen's own old-fashioned style of repression and restraint could look like coldness or weakness.

A case in point came in 1966, when an avalanche of mud and debris cascaded onto the Welsh mining village of Aberfan, engulfing its primary school, killing more than a hundred children and 28 adults. The Queen, urged to go immediately to Aberfan, refused.

She did so for the best of motives. The arrangements for her visit, the need to provide security, might distract from the rescue effort. What if she caused rescuers to miss 'some poor child that might have been found under the wreckage?', she asked. This was after all a woman who had grown up during the Second World War, whose parents visited bombed-out areas of London where - in an age before today's technology - ears strained to hear the faintest cry might be the only way to find survivors in the rubble.

When the Queen did visit Aberfan a week later, her emotion was palpable, sorry, as she told the villagers with tears in her eyes, 'I can give you nothing except sympathy'. Perhaps those tears are the real point - another way in which, even then, she was showing in better colours than Theresa May.

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But all the same, it seems appropriate that visiting the survivors of Grenfell Tower, the Queen was accompanied by Prince William. Not just himself a former Air Ambulance pilot, a member of the emergency services, but a son of Diana, Princess of Wales. And today, you might almost say that any public figure giving a caring response to a tragedy does so trailing the faint perfume of Diana's memory.

It's not just about Diana's own responsiveness, shaking hands with AIDS victims and hugging orphans. It's about the lessons learnt that summer of 1997, when (in the words of one tabloid headline) British people begged Britain's Queen to 'Show Us You Care'. We all know what followed - that the Royals finally left Balmoral and came to meet the crowds in London, that a flag flew half-mast over Buckingham Palace, and the Queen, having broadcast to the nation, spontaneously bowed her head as Diana's coffin passed by.

All those events and more will be rehashed this summer as the 31 August anniversary draws nigh. But perhaps the real thing to be noted about that summer is this - that the changes of practice into which the Royal Family were persuaded back then have never gone away.

It's notable how quickly, in the weeks after Diana's death, royal popularity was restored. By November, the nation could happily celebrate the Queen and Prince Philip's Golden Wedding Anniversary. The royal establishment had been jolted out of a decades-old complacency, their Queen's subjects had been given a catharsis. We had vented our dissatisfaction, they had taken it meekly. They promised to do better, effectively - and they have, This summer shows it clearly.

Diana's legacy - whether or not it's one she would have wanted - may be the modernised, the more visibly emotional, Royal Family that is breasting the 21st century.

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Callum Kendall, 26, of Boothferry Park Halt, west Hull, was discharged conditionally for two years, and must pay 520 compensation, for causing 1,800 of damage to a front window at Pave, and putting a person in fear of violence by using threatening words or behaviour.

Richard Hawman, 28, of HMP Hull, was jailed for 24 weeks for five breaches of a restraining order, by assaulting the victim, attending her home three times, and being in her company; causing 30 of damage to a window belonging to her; causing 400 of damage to a window belonging to her; causing 50 of damage to a door belonging to her; and assaulting her. He was made subject to a restraining order indefinitely.

Paris Hayes, 26, of Clovelly Avenue, west Hull, was discharged conditionally for three months, and must pay 200 compensation, for causing 200 of damage to a front bay window.

Ashley Read, 31, of New Bridge Road, east Hull, was discharged conditionally for 12 months for stealing eight cans of cider, worth 8, from Asda. He must pay 85 costs and a 20 surcharge.

Daniel Walmsley, 19, of Aswell Avenue, east Hull, was fined 20, must pay 250 compensation, and have up to 25 days rehabilitation, for damaging a kitchen hatch and a window at Dock House, assaulting a constable in the execution of his duty, and failing to surrender to custody.

Anthony West, 39, of Skidby Grove, north Hull, was fined 120, and must have six months of treatment for alcohol dependency, for putting a person in fear of violence by using threatening words or behaviour. He must pay 40 costs and an 85 surcharge.
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These pictures show the extent of the horrific injuries a west Hull man says were caused by a gang who set upon his family and "stomped" on his teenage girlfriend's head.

Kieran Bush, 22, says his father, Mark, was stabbed with a bottle while his girlfriend, Olivia Johnson, was punched and had her head jumped on by the men.

He claims he was also punched by the group in the riot, which happened outside their own home in Granville Street on Friday night.

He said a group of at least three men, believed to be Polish, randomly assaulted his family at about 11pm on June 18. He claims the group became aggressive towards the family after calling Olivia, 17, who is Polish, a prostitute who deserves death for seeing an English man.

Kieran said: I was upstairs in my bedroom and I heard a man calling out up to me, swearing in Polish. He was with a couple of other men, all looked in their 30s or 40s, there were three of them at first.

My dad went outside to see what was going on and speak to them, and ask them what they were doing outside his house and to ask them to move along.

But they were speaking Polish so my girlfriend then went out to speak to them too. They then proceeded to go mental at her, saying she is 'a Polish prostitute' for shagging an English man and she deserves death.

They were carrying bottles, I think Corona bottles, and I saw from the window one of them raise it, as though he was going to glass her. But I think he changed his mind, and punched her instead.

She just hit the deck. He then proceeded to jump, properly jump on my girlfriends head. She is 17. They stomped on her head.

(Image: Simon Renilson)

Kieran says he flew downstairs as he heard his father, 50, cry out for someone to call the police because theyve assaulted her.

I ran downstairs to go and help my dad, but he must have gone to help my girlfriend, because as I got downstairs and looked through the front door I saw a man break a bottle and stab it in my dads leg he said.

I saw him stab it and try to drag it down his leg. There was blood everywhere, all over the car and driveway.

Kieran said he went to help his father by trying to pull one of the men off him.

I went up behind one of them and started trying to drag him back, he said. Thats when he bit me on the forearm.

While that was happening the others started punching me. At this point I think there were definitely more than three of them. There was a big group of them, it must have been five or six, all punching me at the same time.

It was at that point I tried to get to my dad, who was still on the floor, and tried to get him away from them. They all just stayed in the street, trying to get at us again.

Thats when the police showed up, and arrested three of them.

(Image: Simon Renilson)

Kieran said it was part of an ongoing problem. He said: Weve seen them a few times, they glare at us as they walk past the house and been very passive aggressive.

To say Im angry weve been attacked in our own home doesnt cover it, just because my girlfriend isnt seeing a Polish man. When I think about what they did, it just makes so angry, and it scares me at the same time, they are neighbours. How often could this happen, is it going to happen again.

My dad is still in hospital, hes needed plastic surgery on his leg. It was frightening, seeing what they were doing to my girlfriend and my dad.

The Mail have contacted Humberside Police for more information.
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Love Island star Zara Holland is warning this years contestants not to have sex on TV.

The North Ferriby lass spent three weeks on the show last summer, where in explicit scenes she was snapped kissing scaffolder Alex Bowen in the villas hideaway. The pair later confessed to having sex.

Despite regretting the encounter, describing it as out of character, the steamy shenanigans led to Zara being stripped of her Miss Great Britain title.

And in an interview with The Sun the 21-year-old she has urged others to think before rolling in the hay on camera and consider how it could haunt you for the rest of your career.

She said: If I had my time on the show again I would definitely do things differently, I wouldnt have sex for a start.

Its so hypocritical that everyone around me was at it like rabbits but I was the one who lost everything. And I only had sex once, in a private room, under the covers. I regret it.

So my advice this to this years islanders is think before you do it. It could haunt you for the rest of your career. For the past year it keeps being brought up whatever I do.

Zara said she felt it was hypocritical she was the one who faced criticism for having sex on Love Island, and sleeping in the main bedroom was disgusting.

She said: The rest of what went on in that main bedroom was so much worse. Sleeping in that bedroom was disgusting, with them all going at it overnight.

Some of the girls were sleeping around with different boys. We had to share the same room. And they werent vilified. It was unfair.

Zara, who has just launched her Beach Angels range from Mimi Boutique, is also calling show bosses to ban sex in the villa.

She said: They shouldnt be allowed to do it.

Or a couple should have been coupled-up for at least two weeks before they are allowed to have sex and it should be in private.

Zara blames her struggle to find love on the show and her naivety for having sex. She said: I did feel I was very left out at that point. I didnt couple up with anyone that I really liked. Everybody else did and was happy.

I thought I would meet someone who liked me.

I was naive  I didnt know what to expect, even though I had watched it before. And I was Miss GB and I didnt even say a lot! But they made it sound like I did. Thats the power of good TV.

But Zara says she has now moved on  after meeting Elliott Love in Barbados  which they now call their own Love Island.

She said: I have met the love of my life.

We will get married and have lots of babies, he just needs to put a ring on it!
The Library Trustees were notified of the damage on Wednesday.

Thieves Tamper With North Adams Library Gutter System

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  After a structural inspection of the library, the city found that someone has attempted to steal the copper gutter system.

"Someone has been working on stealing our copper drainage over on the East Main Street side," Library Director Mindy Hackner said at Wednesday's trustee's meeting. "I noticed damage to the porch railing and it looks like someone has worked things loose but now the city knows about it."

Although no copper was actually stolen, rivets were missing and it appeared as though someone was preparing to tear away the drainage.

Acting Chairman Rich Remsberg asked if anything was being done to make sure no one comes to finish the job.

"Will there be an increased police presence? Will the rivets be replaced?" he said. "I'd hate to start losing copper."

Hackner said both the building inspector and the city are aware and she presumes the police will be notified.

The library isn't the first historic building to be eyed by copper thieves; last year, thieves ripped the drainage and pipes off Notre Dame Church. This lead to severe damage to the building's brick exterior.

Besides finding the copper, Hackner said Champlain Masonry assessed the inside and outside of the library and reaffirmed much of the structural damage the trustees thought existed.

"They are concerned about the same things that concern us but they also noted around the windows where the windows and the brick are pulling away from one another," Hackner said. "They pointed all of that out to the building inspector."

The city made a commitment to inspect the building and make repairs possibly through the help of a Massachusetts Historical Commission grant, however, Hackner said the city missed the deadline.

"They did not meet the deadline but they are getting everything in line for next year," she said.

In other business, the trustees discussed their strategic planning process and felt they could bring more people into the library if they extend their hours to accommodate more programming.

Hackner suggested extending evening hours, perhaps on Saturdays.

"One of the main complaints I hear from people in the community that work during the day is that they just can't get here in time so that may be good," Remsberg said.

Hackner noted that this would require more staffing.

She added that the fiscal 2018 budget looks solid and the library may actually meet the municipal minimum. This is the minimum the state says a community must spend on its library. For the past few years, the library has applied for a waiver.

"For the past few years, we have been creeping up and the requirement has been creeping down so I think we are in range," she said.
The Planning Board is considering changes to the town's standards for exterior lighting.

Williamstown Planning Board Looking at Lighting Regulations

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  The Planning Board is looking at whether to propose modifications to the towns standards for exterior lighting.

At the boards June 13 meeting, planner Chris Kapiloff told his colleagues that he and Ann McCallum hope to bring a recommendation back to the full panel as soon as September.

Kapiloff said the two-person working group has engaged Williams College and the Williamstown Fire District, which is responsible for street lighting in the community.

Kapiloff said the college already had a plan in motion to help create softer, less piercing lighting around the campus, which abuts various residential neighborhoods.

I was not surprised that this is something Williams has not only been thinking about but actively doing, Kapiloff said. Theyve changed lights all over campus. They directed Ann and I to places where there is literally one building where the lights have been changed next to one where they have not so we can see the difference between them.

Kapiloff, who at Tuesdays meeting was elected the boards chairman for 2017-18, said that any changes proposed to the towns code would have to balance the desire to lower light pollution with the need to maintain public safety.

It could probably be possible for our committee to go overboard with its recommendation, Kapiloff said. We have to keep the town safe, and lighting is a big part of that at night as well.

We have had some input. Weve printed hundreds of pages of reading material to see what other towns and cities throughout the country have done.

Chris Winters and Kapiloff both expressed an aspiration that the town could reduce its street lighting if the Fire District thinks such a move is possible.

Its striking flying over the countryside and noting just how many street lights are lighting up huge swaths of nothing for eight hours at night, wasting tons of energy, Winters said in a meeting telecast on the towns community access television station, WilliNet. They would seem to be relics of the past when there was, perhaps, need for light in those locations but not anymore.

It would be nice to try to rationalize the street lighting in Williamstown, but it will require, of course, coordination with the Fire District.

Kapiloff agreed and emphasized the need to generate a consensus before bylaw changes are proposed.

Were trying to rope in as big a group as we can, he said. I think its really important to take a reading of where the town is at the beginning of what we do so we dont reach for too much and end up not accomplishing anything.

Earlier this year, the Planning Board launched a community conversation to try to build consensus for changes to the housing bylaw that might allow more diversity of housing options in town.

On Tuesday, Town Planner Andrew Groff and Amy Jeschawitz related their experience sharing the initial results of the boards study at a conference hosted by the Massachusetts Housing Partnership.

The town is using an MHP grant to hire consultants to look at the bylaw and gather community input.

Where I see this going currently is Id like to take the results we got from that community outreach process, the information that was compiled by [consultant] Jen Goldson and work on really trying to pull apart the bylaw and try to figure out how we can apply those lessons, Groff said. So in the fall, wed be well positioned to have a proposal ready and have Jen come back and help us facilitate a community conversation around that proposal.

As weve seen before, were clearly going to get more community response when theres something concrete for people to toss back and forth.

Planner Susan Puddester volunteered to join Jeschawitz on a working group to develop ideas to bring to the full board for consideration.

As soon as its next meeting, the Planning Board may see the fruits of a District Local Technical Assistance grant it received to look at land-use regulations related to agriculture.

On Tuesday, Jeschawitz told her colleagues she and Groff had met with representatives of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission about a possible ag overlay district.

That doesnt mean thats what its going to be, Jeschawitz said. For lack of a better term, thats how we phrased it.

The intent is to help promote agriculture in the town, and the Planning Board and BRPC plan to engage the towns Agricultural Commission in the discussion, Jeschawitz said.

This is something weve talked about the last couple of years in fits and starts: how we can help the agricultural community business-wise, Jeschawitz said.
Lee Premium Outlets presented McKenna Mcllquham of Hinsdale, Mass., and Delanie Rybacki of Otis, Mass., with Simon Youth Foundation Scholarships for their hard work and determination in the classroom.

Biz Briefs: Two Local Students Granted Lee Outlets Scholarships

Good job: Lee Premium Outlets presented McKenna Mcllquham of Hinsdale, Mass., and Delanie Rybacki of Otis, Mass., with Simon Youth Foundation Scholarships for their hard work and determination in the classroom. Mcllquham attended Wahconah Regional High School, was awarded a $1,500 Community Scholarship and will attend University of Rhode Island in September. Rybacki attended Monument Mountain High School, was awarded a $500 Power of Orange Scholarship and will attend University of Wisconsin-Madison this fall.



Simon, a global leader in retail real estate ownership, is proud to support Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) in its efforts to increase educational opportunities for at-risk students through Simon Supports Education. The movement incorporates several activations designed to engage shoppers in SYF's mission. The Foundation operates 30 non-traditional high school academies across the country, housed primarily in Simon properties, and also provides a scholarship to one student in every community where there is a Simon property. Since its inception in 1998, Simon Youth Foundation has helped more than 14,000 at-risk students receive a high school diploma, and has awarded more than $16 million in scholarships.





To you, too: Greylock Federal Credit Union announced awards to local college-bound high school students who each received $500 from the credit union's "Community Enrichment" scholarship program. The scholarships were presented to community-minded senior class members from eight Berkshire County high schools.



This years recipients are Devon Atwell, Lee High School; Jessie Downer, Wahconah High School; Joseph Bouvier, Lenox High School; Nicholas Gray, Monument Mountain; Niku Darashi, Mt. Greylock; Hannah Dargie, Pittsfield High School; and Cody Latimer, Taconic High School. Applicants were judged on community involvement and an essay titled "What does community mean to me?" Scholarships were awarded to those who demonstrated an outstanding level of community and volunteer work. The scholarships are to be applied toward tuition at state-accredited or nationally-accredited two or four-year colleges or universities.







Doing good: The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America has awarded grants totaling $111,000 to 11 local nonprofit organizations in support of programs benefiting low-income and low-asset Berkshire County families and individuals.



Guardian grant recipients for 2017 include: Berkshire Children and Families  Bridge to Economic Self-Sufficiency Program; Berkshire Community Action Council, Community Action Rides Initiative; Berkshire County Regional Employment Board, Youth Works Summer Employment Program; Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity, Building for Tomorrow and Volunteers in Tax Assistance; Construct, Inc., Building Bridges to Self-Sufficiency; Elizabeth Freeman Center, Money School Program; Hillcrest Dental Care, Portable Dental Care Equipment; Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, Financial Programs in Pittsfield Schools; MCLA Foundation (Berkshire Compact), Career Fair for Eighth Graders; Miss Halls School, Money Matters Financial Literacy Workshop; and The Food Bank of Western Mass., Door-to-Door Delivery Program in Berkshire County.







Berkshire Bank employees paint picnic tables to get them ready for summer camp at the Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center's Girls Inc. camp in Pittsfield.

Xtraordinary: Berkshire Bank completed its Xtraordinary Day on Wednesday, June 7. This event was the second year that the company participated in community service events concurrently from 1 to 4 p.m. closing the entire financial institution including Firestone Financial, 44 Business Capital, Berkshire Insurance Group and RNL Associates as a united effort for community involvement.




iciHaiti - France : A Haitian suspended sentence for insulting the French flag





On the night of 24-25 March a Haitian (M.N. 46) went to the prefecture of Saint-Martin where he caused material damage before removing the French flag he threw in the trash and then replace it with the Haitian flag.



On Thursday, 15 June, he was convicted of a deliberate degradation of public property and insult to the French flag, and sentenced to one month's imprisonment with a suspended sentence, a citizenship course and 300 euros of fine for non respect of the French flag.



For his defense, the accused admitted that he was drunk that night, claiming that he was mad against the prefecture for his difficulties in obtaining a residence permit. It should be remembered that in 1995 M.N. had obtained a 10-year residence permit in Guadeloupe. 1 year before expiry, while in Saint-Martin, he was unable to renew his permit and was deported because he was unable to provide his Haitian passport because of the slowness of the administration in Haiti, back thereafter to Saint Martin under subsidiary protection, he complained since 2008 that he still does not have his residence permit, but only temporary receipts whereas the French administration, according to him, confirms that his file is complete...



IH/ iciHaiti


















Final land development plans for phases 3 and 4 of SummerBridge will head to the South Middleton Township planning commission Tuesday night, with a vote in front of township supervisors likely on July 13.

The total development plan called for 298 rental dwellings at the site located off Marsh Drive. So far, the developer has finished 96 dwellings in phase 1 and 64 dwellings in phase 2. Of those, only six units remain vacant, according to South Middleton Township Supervisor Tom Faley, who spoke to developer Brian McNew, owner of EarthNet Energy of Chambersburg.

Phase 3 calls for another 56 units, and phase 4 calls for 82 units, according to the plans.

While McNew seeks approval for the two phases, hell continue work on other parts of the solar energy development. Faley said McNew hopes to have the community center open by June 24, and a swimming pool is already constructed nearby.

Plans are in the works for a commercial district in that development, where McNew may be looking at medical-related businesses to fill those spots.

Work is also being finalized for the traffic street light at Marsh Drive and Holly Pike/Route 34.

Faley said final steps for the light involve Met-Ed hooking up electricity and a state-approved electrician approving the work.

The blinking yellow light will be online on Thursday, with the regular traffic light programmed to begin Tuesday, June 27.

The traffic light was supposed to have been completed in May, but paperwork and other approvals caused delays for more than a month.




Haiti - Environment : PANA validation workshop on Climate Change





Under the project "Strengthening Climate Change Resilience and Disaster Risk Reduction in Agriculture to Improve Food Security in Haiti after the Earthquake", funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF); The Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) inform that a validation workshop on the updated National Adaptation Action Plan ( PANA) on climate change, will be organized Tuesday, June 20, 2017, at the Hotel Montana, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.



This workshop, which will involve officials from both Ministries, technical partners and other relevant stakeholders, aims to:



Present the analysis of the implementation of the PANA, initially developed by the Haitian Government in 2006;



Finalize the PANA revision process launched in October 2016, based on a participatory approach involving all sectors, in particular in the agricultural, environmental and economic fields, according to the priorities defined in the national strategic documents and the international commitments made by Haiti.





Climate change is one of the major challenges for the socio-economic development of the country. For this reason, the Government of Haiti, with the technical assistance of FAO, found it necessary to revise the National Adaptation Plan of Action (PANA).



IH/ iciHaiti


















Kathleen Smith closed the door to her kindergarten classroom for the last time as classes ended in the Carlisle Area School District this year.

Born and raised in Carlisle, Smith began her teaching career in September 1979 as a kindergarten teacher at South Dickinson Elementary. In 36 years with the district, she taught at seven elementary schools, and spent one year teaching sixth grade early in her career.

For three years, she taught first grade in the same classroom where she attended first grade, and for one year she taught kindergarten in her childhood kindergarten classroom at Hamilton Elementary.

She has been a kindergarten teacher at Bellaire Elementary School for the past 20 years. Seven of those years were spent teaching two half-day programs and the past 13 years have been in full-day kindergarten.

Q. Do you have any special memories from your time in the classroom?

A. There are so many memories from my 36 years spent in the classroom. First of all would be the memories of the students and parents who I had the pleasure to work with during my teaching career. On several occasions, I had the opportunity to teach two generations of the same family, and in the past 20 years, I had the opportunity to serve as the kindergarten teacher of many Bellaire families. The relationships built through these interactions are memories I will have for a lifetime.

One special memory from the classroom would be the experiences and lessons I taught encouraging a love of nature in my students. One of those experiences I shared with my students during the first weeks of school was the amazing life cycle of the monarch butterfly. Not only a science lesson, the activity also motivated the apprehensive students to come to school each day to see what was happening with the caterpillars. Every August for the past 18 years, I would wander through fields of milkweed searching for monarch caterpillars to bring into the classroom. The students would watch with wonder as the caterpillars grew, formed their chrysalis, and then 10 days later, emerged as monarch butterflies. Then as we flew our painted monarchs and chanted, Monarch, monarch time to go. Time to go to Mexico, we would release the butterflies back into nature. This yearly activity always got my students excited about learning and coming to school.

Q. What has changed in the field of education?

A. As a kindergarten teacher, one of the biggest changes I have seen over the years is in the kindergarten program. When I began teaching kindergarten, students only attended school for half the day, and the emphasis was on socialization along with reading and math readiness skills. Now, students attend a full day kindergarten program where academics are in the forefront. Students now learn many skills I taught years ago in first grade. They become readers and writers in kindergarten, and in math, they learn not only number sense, but also how to add and subtract. The added time allows for students to learn and practice these skills in developmentally appropriate ways, which helps to build the foundation for their future learning. The extra time also provides more time to work on social skills and build relationships in the classroom. Moving from half-day kindergarten to full-day kindergarten was a blessing in my career and to the students who I have taught.

Also, when I started teaching, computers and technology were nonexistent in education. Today technology plays a vital role in students lives and in their education. When I began teaching technology included a 35 mm film projector and an overhead projector. I made copies using a mimeograph machine, which meant I usually went home covered in blue ink. Students rarely interacted with the technology, and parent communication was usually completed through a note or an occasional phone call. Today, students interact daily with technology. They use Smartboards, iPads and computers as part of their learning in the classroom. Teachers communicate with parents using their webpage and email. Information can quickly be accessed during lessons, where years ago it meant a trip to the library. Technology has definitely changed education since I began teaching.

Q. What are some key issues for education moving forward?

A. There are many state and national issues moving forward for public education, and they do bring great concern to me as an educator. Politics are now a major force behind our educational system and sometimes those making the policies are not actually working in our schools. At the national level, the push to take money away from public education to fund for-profit charter and private schools is of grave concern. The proposed budget cuts to education would have a devastating effect on some of our neediest students, who benefit from Title 1 programs and the breakfast and lunch program. At the state level, it continues to be the funding of public education, which in the recent past has led to what feels like a constant assault on the public school teacher. The effect of this is beginning to be seen, as fewer students are entering the field of education in college, which could lead to a teacher shortage in the near future. Along with funding, another issue for education is the use of test scores to measure teacher effectiveness and student achievement. This issue has led to some educators teaching to the test, along with hours of instructional time being used to prepare and take the tests. Students are more than just a number, and one test should not be the only measure of a students achievement.

Q. What is the best advice you could give a new teacher?

A. The advice I would give a new teacher is to develop a nurturing, but structured classroom climate where your students feel safe and secure. More important than the fancy lesson or game you will find on the internet are the relationships you build with your students and their parents. If parents feel informed and the students are excited about learning, the foundation of a successful school year is laid. I would also advise a new teacher to seek out support from other teachers in their school, and to listen and learn from their experience. There will be good days and bad days, and it is all right to make mistakes, but at the end of the day I would tell a new teacher to always remember why you chose the profession of teaching, to make a difference in the lives of children.

Q. What will you miss the most about the classroom?

A. I will miss meeting a new group of kindergarten friends in August and watching them learn and grow throughout the school year. I will miss building a relationship with them and their families. I will miss their excitement for learning, and the smile on their faces when they mastered a new skill or solved a problem independently. I will miss read aloud time when we enjoyed stories together. I will miss the wonder in their eyes as they made discoveries about the world around them. I will miss looking through the world through the eyes of 5- and 6-year-olds.
Upper Allen Township Police are investigating an incident in which a vehicle was stolen and crashed into a business early Saturday morning.

Police said they were dispatched at 1:50 a.m. Saturday to the 2100 block of Canterbury Drive for a report of a stolen vehicle. While en route to the call, police said they were notified that the vehicle had crashed.

The stolen vehicle struck a curb in the 400 block of Gettysburg Pike, went over the embankment and crashed into the business complex in the 2100 block of Fisher Road, according to police.

The driver fled the scene.

Police ask anyone with information to contact them at 717-238-9676 or text the anonymous line at 717-850-8273.
Bibi: I Bow My Head and Salute You

The Fellowship | June 19, 2017 Bibi: I Bow My Head and Salute You

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara paid a condolence call this evening on the family of the late Hadas Malka, who was murdered in a terrorist attack at Damascus Gate in Jerusalem this past Friday evening. Hadass parents told the Prime Minister and his wife about their daughters service and her determination to serve in the Border Police.

Prime Minister Netanyahu:

We saw just now a wonderful family, a very fine family with deep love for the land and the state. These things are so apparent when we see Hadass story and it is totally clear where she grew up and the values she brought with her from such a home. This is the child of us all and the hero for us all. If there is one thing that is etched in me, and  I am certain  also in my wife and in whoever was there, it is what Hadass father David said: You must understand that if we are not there then we have no capital. And I say: Without these young people, we have no country. I bow my head and salute you, Hadas, our hero.

Mrs Sara Netanyahu:

This girl was a leader, a beautiful girl; we see that she was someone special. All of us, I think every mother and father in the State of Israel and the State of Israel, we all embrace Hadass mother and father, and brothers and sisters. A truly wonderful family and every time it is sad again to discover our heroes and heroines, when it is always too late for me to sit and talk with them, but her presence in the room was so strong and so special. I told them that they were truly privileged to have such a child. I think that all of us in the country are privileged to have such a heroine and a child like Hadas Malka, and like Hadar Cohen, to whom Hadas wrote a chilling post over a year ago in which she saluted her. She did not know that hers would be a similar fate. It is simply heart-rending. I think that we all, without exception, embrace the Malka family, for our heroic daughter.
The Cumberland County Commissioners have fired off another salvo of information to the Pennsylvania attorney general in regard to alleged misuse of public resources by county Clerk of Courts Dennis Lebo.

The commissioners issued a release Monday stating that additional documentation had been acquired through an investigation by the countys solicitor, representing further flagrant misuse of taxpayer resources for political campaign purposes by Lebo.

But Lebo claims at least one of the documents included in the release had not come from his county computer, and was being included to pump up a thin case against him that he described as a witch hunt by County Commissioner Gary Eichelberger, a long-time opponent.

Hes reaching for anything to make me look as bad as he can, Lebo said. Theyre trying to overload the press with stuff to make it look like Im doing something terrible.

Eichelberger countered Monday afternoon that, regardless of his personal acrimony with Lebo, we now have a substantial amount of material to indicate [Lebo] is abusing his position.

The most recent round of controversy started in May, after it was revealed that Lebo had used the county email system to compose his application for the GOPs clerk of courts nomination. The correspondence also showed that Lebo had sent his application to his first deputy for review, again on the county server, prior to sending it to the countys Republican Committee.

Use of county resources for political purposes is forbidden by the countys IT policy. All row officers, such as Lebo, must agree to the policy in order to use the countys electronic resources, even though their offices are independently elected and partially funded by state dollars.

Lebos email records had been obtained by South Middleton Township Supervisor Bryan Gembusia, who had made similar accusations against Lebo and others during the 2015 primary season. This year, Gembusia backed Cathy Little, Lebos opponent for the GOP nomination. Little narrowly lost the May 15 primary to Lebo.

The emails released by the countys investigation on Monday, among other things, indicate that the letter of endorsement sent to media outlets before the primary, and ostensibly authored by Lebos employees, had been run through Lebo first.

An April 17 email from one of Lebos deputies to Lebo, sent using their county email addresses, contains the letter to the editor submission with please review in the subject line.

I wasnt the one that sent that, Lebo said Monday. [The employee] sent that out and she knew she made a mistake.

The county also revealed two documents that had been sent by Lebo from his county email to his personal account during the 2015 county election. Both documents are refutations of arguments being made by Eichelberger, intended to be used as political countermeasures by members of the local GOP committee opposed to Eichelbergers positions.

Lebo argued that the documents contained only facts and did not constitute political work being done on public resources.

The letter does not say who to vote for, Lebo said. Its all part of the record, correcting [Eichelbergers] record.

Lebos interpretation of the term political is further thrown into question by another of the released documents, an email chain between Lebo and other Republican officials, including Gembusia.

In the email, Lebo is asking for luncheon group dues. However, Gembusia is seen asking, in the email chain, if the arrangements should be made using the county server, to which Lebo replies yes, its fine. It is not a political thing.

The group is just a social thing, Lebo said on Monday.

However, Gembusia, reached on Monday, said that he had declined to join the lunch group because it appeared to be a political organization.

They say its social, but its all elected officials, Gembusia said. [Lebo] also has them send the money for the lunch fund to him at the county courthouse, which forces the county mail staff to handle it for a personal purpose.

Another email chain indicates that Lebo had been selling Hershey Park tickets to county employees, although Lebo said this was a block of discount tickets sold at cost, and not a campaign function.

Also included in the countys email release is a questionnaire from an organization called Cumberland ACTION, which Lebo appeared to have submitted in 2013, seeking the groups political support.

The county release contains no indication that Lebo composed or sent the response on his county email, although the county may have recovered it from elsewhere on Lebos computer other than his mail server. Lebo maintains that the questionnaire was acquired by other means, and is being included by the county in order to imply wrongdoing where none exists.

They have no indication its from my county computer, he said of the survey.

When asked if, and how, the commissioners had vetted the emails that were released to the public and press, Commissioner Vince DiFilippo said that the county solicitor is heading the investigation and referred questions to him.

County Solicitor Keith Brenneman was not at Mondays commissioners meeting and is unavailable this week, according to his office.

Lebo maintained that extraneous information was being thrown into the release to pad the case by Eichelberger, and that Eichelberger should not be involved with the countys issuance of such materials given his strong political stance against Lebo.

Eichelberger, according to county campaign records, is the chief contributor to a group called Republican Principles for Cumberland, having given $15,000 and another $2,000 loan to the political committee this year.

The committee paid out $5,000 to Universal Media, for what Lebo claimed were campaign ads against him, and another $2,717 for the printing of mailers supporting Little.

[Eichelberger] has spent almost $8,000 against me this election alone, and he doesnt like to lose. Thats where this is coming from, Lebo said.

I have the right to support whomever I choose, Eichelberger said. My support [of Little] is pegged exactly because of behavior Ive seen over the years from Mr. Lebo.

Regardless of whether Lebo used county resources to seek the endorsement of Cumberland ACTION, the questionnaire he returned to the group presents another issue as well.

Cumberland ACTION is a religious conservative organization. In the questionnaire, Lebo is asked do you support promoting Christian traditions at all levels of government, as well as are you pro-life and do you support, and will you promote, traditional marriage in your elected position?

Lebo answers YES to all of these questions, in capital letters.

While elected officials are entitled to their opinions, county policy explicitly prohibits the promotion of specific partisan or religious views through an official capacity. Lebos statement that he would promote religious conservative values in his governmental capacity is thus highly suspect, said the countys head administrator, Chief Clerk Larry Thomas.

[Lebo] has brought not only politics into the office, but also his religiosity, Thomas said. Hes certainly entitled to his personal views, but its there in all caps  quite literally  that he wants to merge his government role with his religious beliefs.
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Though Spider-Man: Homecoming may technically be some grand unifier between Marvel and Sony, it's still playing entirely by the former's rules.

Speaking at Sydney's Supanova Comic-Con via Skype, director Jon Watts appeared to confirm that there would be multiple post-credits scenes for the film, all of which would be "worth sticking around for", as reported by Twitter user Tyler James.

That's not exactly outside of tradition; though Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 may have pushed the medium a little with five post-credits scenes overall, MCU films do have a tendency to stick in two on average - one as a mid-credits sequence, and one right at the very end.

It's likely they'll function largely as Doctor Strange's post-credits scenes did: one looked forward to Thor: Ragnarok in a scene between Strange and Thor directed by Taika Waititi, the other set up a possible Doctor Strange sequel with Chiwetel Ejiofor's Baron Mordo as the villain.

That means we might get a preview of Black Panther, or more likely Avengers: Infinity War in which Tom Holland's Spider-Man is confirmed to appear, alongside something more specific to the Spidey universe.



Although, considering the apparent internal conflicts over what actually constitutes the Spidey universe, don't expect anything connected to the upcoming Venom film.

Spider-Man: Homecoming hits UK cinemas 5 July.
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There seems to be some confusion over at Marvel and Sony regarding the upcoming Spider-Man spin-off Venom.

While Marvel CEO Kevin Feige remains adamant Tom Hardys villain-led flick will remain unrelated to Spider-Man: Homecoming  the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) instalment  Sonys Amy Pascal has other ideas.

They will all take place in the world were now creating for Peter Parker, Pascal told German website Film Starts. Therell be adjuncts to it, there may be different locations, but they will all still be in the same world. And they will be connected to each other as well

Asked whether Tom Hollands Spider-Man could appear in the upcoming spin-offs, Pascal replied: Theres a chance.

Feige, who happened to be sitting next to Pascal during the interview, did not comment at the moment. However, in a separate interview, the Marvel mastermind said of Venom: "No plans to include him in the MCU right now, its Sony's project.

Continuing to talk about Venom meeting Spider-Man, Pascal said Sony are hoping to replicate Marvels winning formula.

She said: I think one of the things that Kevin has done with Marvel that was so brilliant is by bringing the fans along and making each movie seem like a chapter in a book, that you have to read that chapter in order to go forward.

"And I think the investment that the fans get to feel in being a part of a larger story and understanding what's happening, I think is something that I know Sony would want to emulate.

Films to get excited about in 2017 Show all 13 1 /13 Films to get excited about in 2017 Films to get excited about in 2017 Star Wars: The Last Jedi Director: Rian Johnson Rian Johnson Cast: Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, and Lupita Nyong'o Plot: No details yet, but it will continue directly on from Rey coming face-to-face with Luke at the end of The Force Awakens. Release Date: 15 December 2017 Films to get excited about in 2017 Thor: Ragnarok Director: Taika Waititi Taika Waititi Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Tessa Thompson, Jeff Goldblum, Karl Urban, and Mark Ruffalo Plot: Story details are minimal as of now, but Thor's third return to screen has already been teased to feature a loose adaptation of the famous 'Planet Hulk' storyline. Release Date: 27 October 2017 Films to get excited about in 2017 You Were Never Really Here Director: Lynne Ramsay Lynne Ramsay Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Alessandro Nivola Plot: A war veteran's attempt to save a young girl from a sex trafficking ring goes horribly wrong. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 Annihilation Director: Alex Garland Alex Garland Cast: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Tessa Thompson, and Oscar Isaac Plot: A biologist's husband disappears. She thus puts her name forward for an expedition into an environmental disaster zone, but does not quite find what she's expecting. The expedition team is made up of the biologist, an anthropologist, a psychologist, and a surveyor. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 Wonderstruck (image from Far From Heaven) Director: Todd Haynes Cast: Julianne Moore, Michelle Williams, and Amy Hargreaves Plot: The story of a young boy in the Midwest is told simultaneously with a tale about a young girl in New York from fifty years ago as they both seek the same mysterious connection. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 Mother (image of Darren Aronofsky) Director: Darren Aronofsky Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem, Michelle Pfeiffer, Domhnall Gleeson, and Ed Harris Plot: A couple's relationship is tested when uninvited guests arrive at their home, disrupting their tranquil existence. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 The Killing of a Sacred Deer (image from The Lobster) Director: Yorgos Lanthimos Cast: Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, and Alicia Silverstone Plot: A surgeon forms a familial bond with a sinister teenage boy, with disastrous results. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 Blade Runner 2049 Director: Denis Villeneuve Denis Villeneuve Cast: Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Robin Wright, and Jared Leto Plot: Thirty years after the events of the first film, a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K, unearths a long-buried secret that has the potential to plunge what's left of society into chaos. K's discovery leads him on a quest to find Rick Deckard, a former LAPD blade runner who has been missing for 30 years. Release Date: 6 October 2017 Films to get excited about in 2017 Lady Bird (image of director Greta Gerwig) Director: Greta Gerwig Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, and Lucas Hedges Plot: The adventures of a young woman living in Northern California for a year. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara (image of director Steven Spielberg and star Mark Rylance) Director: Steven Spielberg Cast: Mark Rylance, Oscar Isaac Plot: The Kidnapping Of Edgardo Mortara recounts the story of a young Jewish boy in Bologna, Italy in 1858 who, having been secretly baptized, is forcibly taken from his family to be raised as a Christian. His parents' struggle to free their son becomes part of a larger political battle that pits the Papacy against forces of democracy and Italian unification. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 How to Talk to Girls at Parties Director: John Cameron Mitchell John Cameron Mitchell Cast: Elle Fanning, Ruth Wilson, and Nicole Kidman Plot: An alien touring the galaxy breaks away from her group and meets two young inhabitants of the most dangerous place in the universe: the London suburb of Croydon. Release Date: Unknown Films to get excited about in 2017 The Dark Tower Director: Nikolaj Arcel Nikolaj Arcel Cast: Idris Elba, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Taylor Plot: Gunslinger Roland Deschain roams an Old West-like landscape in search of the dark tower, in the hopes that reaching it will preserve his dying world. Release Date: 28 July 2017 Films to get excited about in 2017 Suburbicon Director: George Clooney George Clooney Cast: Matt Damon, Julianne Moore, Josh Brolin, and Oscar Isaac Plot: A crime mystery set in the quiet family town of Suburbicon during the 1950s, where the best and worst of humanity is hilariously reflected through the deeds of seemingly ordinary people. When a home invasion turns deadly, a picture-perfect family turns to blackmail, revenge and betrayal. Release Date: 24 November

Whether Hollands hero will cross-over remains to be seen, but with Marvels creative control possibly under threat, chances are we wont be seeing a cross-over with Venom or Black & Silver  another Spider-Man related project  anytime soon.

Spider-Man: Homecoming reaches cinemas 5 July, with Venom coming 5 October, 2018.
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Simon Cowells Grenfell Tower charity single  raising money for affected by the tragic London fire  has reportedly been delayed after further artists promised to contribute.

Celine Dion and Robbie Williams are rumoured to be joining Carl Barat, Craig David, Emeli Sande, James Blunt and Rita Ora, all of whom were spotted heading to a Notting Hill studio over the weekend.

Other additional performers include Stormzy, Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones, and Louisa Johnson.

The X-Factor winner saying of the track: The amount of people that have actually agreed to it and gone out of their way to do it is incredible, especially how busy some of these people are.

The huge group, which was organised by Cowell, will cover the Simon and Garfunkel song Bridge Over Troubled Water.

In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Show all 51 1 /51 In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police have released images from inside the tower where at least 58 people have died Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by polices what appears to be a stationary bicycle sitting among the ashes In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by police shows the remnants of a burnt-out bathroom In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Picture showing the lifts on an unknown floor Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency crews outside the front entrance to the tower Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Fire crews inspecting flats in the burnt out tower London Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Grenfell Tower is seen in the distance PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A drone flies near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire 'Theresa May Stay Away' message written on the messages of support at Latymer Community Church for those affected by the fire Ray Tang/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire An aerial view of the area surrounding Grenfall tower Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Donated shoes sit in the Westway Sports Centre near to the site of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of support for those affected by the massive fire in Grenfell Tower are displayed on a well near the tower in London AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A local resident stands on her balcony by the gutted Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of condolence are left at a relief centre close to the scene of the fire that broke out at Grenfell Tower, EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A police officer stands by a security cordon outside Latimer Road station Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firemen examine the scorched facade of the Grenfell Tower in London on a huge ladder AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A search dog is led through the rubble of the Grenfell Tower in London as firefighting continue to damp-down the deadly fire AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn comforts a local resident (name not given) at St Clement's Church in west London where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hugs councillor Mushtaq Lasharie as he arrives at St Clement's Church in Latimer Road, where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn meeting staff and volunteers at St Clementis Church in Latimer Road David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firefighters with a dog walk around the base of the Grenfell Tower REUTERS/Peter Nicholls In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emotions run high as people attend a candle lit vigil outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Debris hangs from the blackened exterior of Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman speaks to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman holds a missing person posters near the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Sadiq Khan speaking with a resident James Gourley/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Ken Livingstone walks near the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is confronted by Kai Ramos, 7, near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to a woman outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers distribute aid near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People gather to observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People light candles as they observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man distributes food from the back of a van near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A firefighter is cheered near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A T-shirt with a written message from the London Fire Brigade hangs from a fence near The Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A young girl on her way to lay flowers near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire The remains of residential tower block Grenfell Tower are seen from Dixon House a nearby tower block Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers prepare supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block which was destroyed in a fire REUTERS/Neil Hall In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers move a car to make space for a lorry picking up supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People distribute boxes of food near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower bloc REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman touches a missing poster for 12-year-old Jessica Urbano on a tribute wall after laying flowers on the side of Latymer Community Church next to the fire-gutted Grenfell Tower AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man looks at messages written on a wall near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Candles and messages of condolence near where the fire broke out at Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry a stretcher towards Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency services at Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry out a body from Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Rick Findler/PA Wire

Directed by choirmaster Gareth Edmund Malone and featuring over 300 participants, including local residents, the single will be available to download from 8am on Wednesday.

[Simon Cowell] is from ITV, Im from the BBC, and it felt like a really nice message about working together, said Malone.

Singing absolutely cannot fix anything, a record cannot fix anything, but we might be able to raise some money, we might be able to touch a few hearts. To be frank I dont care what it sounds like, its just about doing something good.
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Klina Jordan has always hated politics. So even she's surprised that she dedicated the last two years of her life to electoral reform.

This is not something I ever thought I would do, she says. Politics is just two groups of blokes shouting at each other!

Jordan is visiting the peaceful Findhorn Foundation for the first Local Economic Forum, Scotland's answer to the world economic forum at Davos in Switzerland. Over three days, attendees from all over the world discussed how to make democracy work in uncertain times.

Jordan has spend two years as co-director and facilitator at Make Votes Matter, a non-profit venture that aims to change the voting system in the UK from first past the post to proportional representation by 2021.

Its a battle with renewed urgency since the recent election, when Theresa May had to eat her words about a coalition of chaos after she lost her majority and was forced to consider a coalition with Northern Irelands right wing DUP.

There are all sorts of myths about proportional representation. Coalition of chaos is the big one, Jordan says. Its just not true. Coalitions are the norm in developed democracies.

Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark and South Africa have all stopped using first past the post in favour of systems that allow the number of seats a party gets in parliament to be decided by the number of votes won, rather than who gets the majority in each constituency.

Proportional representation means that smaller parties, like the Greens or Ukip, are better represented, because votes count towards seats even when they do not end up electing a local MP. Jordan says it has also been proven to have a range of positive outcomes, including greater income equality, less corporate control, better long term planning and more environmentally-friendly policy.

Perhaps most surprisingly, first past the post is also the biggest predictor in whether a democracy will go to war. "By concentrating power between two parties that are only able to flip flop between each other, it's easy for lobbyists to target either side, Jordan explains. "If you have a spread of power across more power its less easy for them to do that."

The tipping point for Jordan - and the start of Make Votes Matter - came after the 2015 general election. Owen Winter, a Cornish teenager, started a petition calling for democratic reform. He wasnt yet old enough to vote, but he was already frustrated that the election results didnt reflect people's choices. Statistics since show as many as 74 per cent of votes were wasted in 2015.

At the time, the Electoral Reform Society called it the most disproportionate election in British history. Winters petition has since gathered almost 300,000 signatures and spawned a permanent pressure group in the form of Make Votes Matter, a non-profit company limited by guarantee.

Winter stepped back from Make Votes Matter to concentrate on finishing school and going to university. But the organisation continues to garner support as successive elections throw up undemocratic results. Early indicators show that during the 2017 election, as many as 68 per cent of votes were wasted.

"This is the third election in a row where first past the post has failed to do what it says on the tin  to deliver strong and stable single-party government, says Katie Ghose, chief executive of the Electoral Reform Society. "The question of reform becomes more urgent than ever.

Voting reform is just one item on the agenda of the Electoral Reform Society, which has existed for over 100 years and campaigns for many issues including lowering the voting age and for reform of the House of Lords. The Society supports a kind of proportional representation called single transferrable vote, which is already used in Scottish local elections and for most elections in Northern Ireland.

Ghose says it has been very positive to see Make Votes Matter come together in such a short period of time. Make Votes Matter have been great allies already in the push for proportional representation, she adds. Weve been pleased to work with them  whether its organising the largest ever petition for proportional representation in 2015, to finding out MPs views on fair votes, and bringing politicians and figures from all parties together for cross-party discussions on voting reform."

The lions share of funding for Make Votes Matter comes from personal donations, topped up by grants from the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust and the Network for Social Change. That pays for three members of staff to work part time in a live-in office with maps of voting boundaries tacked to the wall in Clifton Wood, Bristol.

They have already succeeded in getting all the opposition parties, apart from Labour, in their alliance. There were early signs that Labour would capitulate and put electoral reform on the agenda after Cat Smith, a Labour frontbencher, put her name to a Make Votes Matter report. They are coming on board and we are positive that we can continue that conversation, Jordan says.

Recommended Everything you need to know about the case for electoral reform

Now the election is over, Make Votes Matter is concentrating on getting the issue of electoral reform on politicians' agenda to be put forward for a vote in parliament. They face an uphill struggle since the two major parties in the UK are considered unlikely to vote for a system that makes them less powerful, but Jordan is hopeful. It is possible! Although it is very volatile at the moment. Fairness and freedom are core values of Conservatives. There are already Conservative action groups for reform. If we get enough Conservative voters as well as all the opposition parties, there may be a way to vote it through.

In the short-term, the group have planned a rally to demand proportional representation in Westminster on June 24 called #saveourdemocracy.

Jordan is playing the long game, motivated by a lifetime of activism that started when she was just seven, with a sponsored silence for Friends of the Earth. As a teenager she got involved with the road protests to stop the A30 being built in Devon. Later she worked for 2degrees, which helps companies make supply chains more sustainable, then Carbon Smart, which provides sustainability services to small businesses.

It became apparent to her that you cant effect change without changing the system. I had this rising feeling that eventually I would have to do something about politics, which I really didnt like the idea of, she smiles.

But proportional representation is the single most important thing to change now. It will allow us to make all the other changes, like votes for 16-year-olds, reform in the House of Lords, even climate change policy."
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Mark Zuckerberg has a lot on his plate.

The 33-year-old runs Facebook, the social media giant with a market cap of $433.25 billion.

It's not surprising that the tech CEO has quite a lot to do throughout the day.

That being said, Zuckerberg still makes the time to exercise, travel extensively, and spend time with his family.

He stays productive and balanced by eliminating non-essential choices from his life and setting ambitious goals for himself.

Here's a look at an average day for Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg:

After waking up at 8 a.m., the Facebook founder immediately checks Facebook, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp on his phone, he told Jerry Seinfeld in a Facebook Live Q&A.

Once he's gotten his morning updates, it's time to work out. Zuckerberg typically exercises about three times a week.

Sometimes he brings his dog Beast along. The tech CEO says running with his pet has the "added bonus of being hilarious" because it's "basically like seeing a mop run."

Beast is a Hungarian sheepdog with quite an impressive coat.

Once he's gotten his exercise in, Zuckerberg's not too picky about what he eats for breakfast. He'll usually just dig into whatever he's feeling that day. He doesn't like to waste time on small decisions.

That's also why he wears the same thing almost everyday. Zuckerberg's work uniform consists of jeans, sneakers, and a gray t-shirt. When asked about his wardrobe in 2014, he told the audience: "I really want to clear my life to make it so that I have to make as few decisions as possible about anything except how to best serve this community."

His Palo Alto home is tricked out with a "custom-made artificially intelligent assistant," according to CNBC.

Zuckerberg puts in 50 to 60 hours a week at Facebook, but he thinks about the social media platform constantly. "I spend most of my time thinking about how to connect the world and serve our community better, but a lot of that time isn't in our office or meeting with people or doing what you'd call real work," he told CNN.

Earlier this year, The Verge reported that Zuckerberg has some help managing his own social media channels. A squad of 12 employees helps him eliminate inappropriate comments and post updates on his Facebook page.

When he's not working, Zuckerberg spends some time expanding his mind. He's learning Mandarin Chinese. He also tries to tackle as many books as he can  in 2015, he challenged himself to read a new book every two weeks.

Zuckerberg's daily schedule tends to vary more on his frequent travels.

He's met all sort of big names, including world leaders like Pope Francis, US President Barack Obama, and celebrities like his personal friend Vin Diesel.

Recently, Zuckerberg embarked on several trips around the US, prompting some to speculate that he's interested in a future career in politics.

Whether he's traveling or working, Zuckerberg also spends time with his wife, Dr. Priscilla Chan, and his daughter, Max. He took a two-month parental leave from Facebook after she was born in December 2015. In March 2017, the couple announced that they are expecting another daughter.

Every night before going to bed, the Facebook CEO tucks Max in with a traditional Jewish prayer, the "Mi Shebeirach."

Read more:

 This chart is easy to interpret: It says we're screwed

 How Uber became the world's most valuable startup

 These 4 things could trigger the next crisis in Europe

Read the original article on Business Insider UK.  2016. Follow Business Insider UK on Twitter.
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Facebook has revealed it is sharing Instagram and WhatsApp users data.

The company has published a blog post detailing some of the ways in which it plans to keep content related to terrorism off the site.

However, one of the tactics is likely to prove highly controversial.

Facebook says one of its current focuses is cross-platform collaboration, where it also collects and analyses users data from Instagram and WhatsApp  two extremely popular services that are owned by Facebook.

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

Because we dont want terrorists to have a place anywhere in the family of Facebook apps, we have begun work on systems to enable us to take action against terrorist accounts across all our platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram, wrote Monika Bickert, Facebooks director of global policy management, and Brian Fishman, the sites counterterrorism policy manager.

Given the limited data some of our apps collect as part of their service, the ability to share data across the whole family is indispensable to our efforts to keep all our platforms safe.

The blog post doesn't specify which limited data is being shared and how it is being used, but it adds that Facebook is using artificial intelligence to understand language and recognise images.

We need more transparency about how Facebook plans to share data across its platforms," Jim Killock, the executive director of the Open Rights Group, told The Independent.

Given the previous controversy about data sharing between Facebook and WhatsApp, we hope the company is working with data protection authorities to ensure that this is limited to what is absolutely necessary.

Weve asked Facebook for more information, and will update this piece if the company responds.

WhatsApp conversations are protected by end-to-end encryption, which has come under heavy fire from the government, despite being crucial for protecting people and important systems from criminals.

We know that terrorists sometimes use encrypted messaging to communicate, the Facebook post continues.

Because of the way end-to-end encryption works, we cant read the contents of individual encrypted messages  but we do provide the information we can in response to valid law enforcement requests, consistent with applicable law and our policies.

Facebook bought WhatsApp in 2014 and, despite initially claiming it would keep user information for the two services separate, announced controversial data-sharing plans last year.

These were suspended in November, and the European Commission said Facebook intentionally or negligently submitted misleading information ahead of its WhatsApp takeover.

However, the company maintains it did nothing wrong.
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Theresa May has said the Finsbury Park mosque attack justifies her plan to impose a raft of regulations on the internet.

The Prime Minister was speaking outside 10 Downing Street after a white van ploughed into Muslim worshippers following prayers at the north London mosque, leaving one dead and 10 injured.

"This Government will act to stamp out extremist and hateful ideology, both across society and on the internet," she said.

It was the latest in a series of statements from Ms May that suggest she believes recent attacks have strengthened the case for her widely-criticised plans to regulate the online world.

Those plans include launching a massive crackdown on internet security so messages on apps such as WhatsApp can be accessed more easily by authorities, and censorship of what can be published online.

The PM also said she would ensure "that police and security services have the powers they need".

That is likely to include online measures  including forcing internet companies to make it easier for everyone to read private messages, and to remove extremist content or be hit with large fines.

As she entered Downing Street after the election, Ms May indicated she would look to implement those plans for internet regulation as soon as she could.

The Conservatives' hope for increased internet regulation was a central part of the party's election manifesto, and the party's leader has committed to pushing that through despite failing to win a majority.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

She also suggested the country had been too "tolerant" of extremism, and that she intended to launch plans to fight it.

Making clear that the government viewed the events in Finsbury Park as a terror attack, the PM said "terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms, and our determination to tackle them must be the same, whoever is responsible".

Ms May has made similar comments after each of the recent terror attacks, despite there being no clear proof that private communications or other technology was to blame.
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The first laboratory confirmed case of Zika in India was detected in a hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on 9 November 2016. A further two cases were subsequently confirmed  one in January 2017 and another in February. Yet none of these cases were reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO) until 15 May.

Why the government decided against publicly announcing these cases for nearly six months after first confirming them is unclear, but it reflects ongoing low levels of transparency in Indias public health system. Not surprisingly, India ranked second to last in a recent study of transparency in health systems across 32 countries.

The WHO strongly encourages governments to quickly report potential and actual public health threats so that the problem can be nipped in the bud. But, for various reasons, some countries fail to comply. Reasons for doing so include potentially negative impacts on business and tourism, loss of public confidence and negative impacts on the career prospects of politicians.

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In 2003, China withheld information about a major SARS outbreak, which put its own public and those of other countries under grave risk. Other countries might have fewer human, economic or infrastructure resources than China and so are unable to detect and report cases on time. Indias disease surveillance system is vast, but it is limited by a fragmented structure and lack of coordination.

Valid justification?

Indian officials justified not informing the WHO within 24 hours  a requirement under international health regulations  by citing the WHOs declassification of Zika as a public health emergency of international concern in November 2016. The director general of the Indian Council of Medical Research further clarified that the government chose to avoid creating panic.

But other facts emerged that raised suspicions. Authorities chose to withhold the information from even the local civic authorities who could have swiftly prepared local communities to undertake preventive measures. The authorities conducting Zika surveillance also misinformed some of the public that the tests were for malaria. The authorities also excluded Zika cases from the official infectious disease monitoring and reporting website even after news of the cases was released.

Unused resources

The Indian government developed a communication plan to tell the public about Zika before the first laboratory Zika case was identified last November. What is puzzling is why they chose not to put this plan into action and spread word about their control measures through the media  which, in India, is enormous and far-reaching. If they had, they might have reassured the public that everything was under control.

Prime Minister Modis digital India  switched on, but not communicating (Shutterstock)

Since assuming office in May 2014, Indias prime minister, Narendra Modi, has repeatedly spoken about his vision for a digital India. But the mobile apps, social media accounts and slick websites that the government created in order to increase transparency and communication with its citizens, were left untouched as the Zika cases emerged. Instead, the public learned about this important health threat from the WHO.

The importance of transparency

A lack of transparency on critical matters of public health can lead to a loss of trust in the government and suspicion among the public. For instance, media reports suggested that the government was silent about the Zika cases as it might have negatively affected business (an international business summit was held in Gujarat around the time the second case emerged).

Risk communication experts point to the importance of transparency  through clear, constant communications  in building public trust during a disease outbreak. A lack of trust makes it tougher for governments to manage future outbreaks efficiently.

With few Zika cases and a comprehensive surveillance system, India is fortunate to have avoided disaster  so far. But the threat of a larger outbreak in India, and in neighbouring countries, is still very real.

The Indian government may have failed in its duty to report a public health threat, but its not too late to learn from this experience. Doing so will offer them an opportunity to set an example to other low and middle-income countries, and strengthen its position as a responsible player in global health. Compromising on transparency, on the other hand, will imperil India and its neighbours, and may even have global ramifications.

Santosh Vijaykumar is the vice chancellors senior research fellow in digital health at Northumbria University, Newcastle. This article was originally published on The Conversation (www.theconversation.com)
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Julie Nashawaty was a couple of days away from a first date with a man who, according to their online dating profiles, she had a 92 per cent compatibility match with.

We instantly connected, texted incessantly, and became Snapchat friends, she said. We had plans for Monday and it couldnt come soon enough.

But just before they were due to meet in person, Nashawaty decided to give him a quick search online, as the majority of us do when it comes to online dating.

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And that was when she saw it: This uber cute guy I had a date with IN TWO DAYS had robbed a bank less than a year ago.

But shes not the only one whos had close shaves - a few months ago a friend was set to go out with a Tinder date when she googled him and found out hed nearly gone to prison for glassing someone in a club two years earlier.

It was experiences like this that made Nashawaty realise there was a market for professional background checks before meeting your online dates.

And the stats make for pretty convincing reading too:

10 per cent of sex offenders use online dating sites

Three per cent of online daters are psychopaths

51 per cent of online daters are already in a relationship (12 per cent are married)

10 per cent of members on free dating websites are scammers

81 per cent of people lie on their profile.

And that may not just be saying theyre six foot when theyre really five foot eleven.

Stories abound of people running into trouble on dates having not done their research - perhaps youve met up and found out your match wasnt who they said they were, perhaps youre feeling threatened or perhaps you just want to escape but arent sure how.

Last year, the UK's National Crime Agency revealed that crimes linked to online dating had increased by 450 per cent in five years. Similarly, last November the Metropolitan Police reported that they'd seen a 2000 per cent rise in the number of crimes involving Tinder and Grindr since 2012.

With the rise of online dating weve seen a necessary rise in ways that are meant to keep people safe.

Signs such as this are becoming more common in bars:

But if you can, obviously its better to find out the person has a criminal record or is potentially dangerous before you meet up, so you can save yourself from a frightening situation.

Of course, if you have enough time and stalking skills, you can find out a lot yourself.

But not all of us feel confident about being able to find all incriminating evidence. And when all you have is a first name, job title and perhaps university, if the person has a minimal social media presence they might be hard to find through a basic search engine.

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The majority of dating sites dont run background checks on their users, so this is where the professionals come in.

With her company, Aste, Nashawaty employs a team of private investigators who work to make online dating safer. You send in what limited information you have about your match, and within 24 hours, theyll send you a background check.

Were trained professionals with a proprietary method of doing research on a person, Nashawaty explains. That's also how we can do it so quickly.

Incredibly, 45 per cent of people theyve investigated were hiding something - nine per cent were married, nine per cent had arrest records, 11 per cent hde conflicting information and 16 per cent were catfishing (pretending to be someone theyre not).

On one memorable occasion, Nashawaty found one of the suspects had been arrested for dating women to molest their children.

We find out every place your partner is online, Nashawaty explains. We deliver social media profiles, sex offender status, major arrests, and then any other mention of your date online.

If that means they were in a small news story from 2002 about building a movie theatre in their parents home, you get that too.

The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Show all 10 1 /10 The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd The cartoons that perfectly sum up relationships Catana Chetwynd

Its comprehensive, but it may put you in a tricky position if you decide you do still want to date the person and thus already know everything about them.

Still, people like the reassurance of knowing theyre not meeting someone dangerous. And one customer even said she liked her match even more after the results of the background check (he was very philanthropic).

Business has been steadily increasing as more people find out that theres a people driven solution, Nashawaty told The Independent. People were stuck without any solution before us, so now that people know they have someone to turn to, they're really excited.

And often, people go to Aste when they already suspect something: Weve had a lot of feedback that their gut feeling matched up with the information we provided back to them, Nashawaty says.

There is another company doing the same thing, but they charge more and take longer. Aste charges 23.50 for a background check, so its a bit steep if youre planning on doing it before every date, but if you have an inkling and want peace of mind, its not outrageous.

At the moment, Aste takes on clients all across the globe, but only in English.

With new dating apps hitting the market every week, our appetite for swiping our way to love shows no sign of abating. And with that in mind, perhaps in a few years running background checks on your matches could be the norm.

Everyone deserves to have someone to turn to to help them in their quest for love, says Nashawaty.
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And so begins the most achingly stupid political project the UK has engaged in in living memory.

Youll be thinking at this point that Im talking about Brexit, and its true that it fits the bill.

But, in point of fact, Im actually talking about just part of it: the insistence that Britain must leave the worlds largest single market, made up of more than 500 million potential customers.

Looked at in those terms, you really would have to question the collective sanity of any country turning its back on such a thing but that, it seems, is what the British Government is preparing to do.

Already the threats of what might happen if Theresa May tries to move away from such a suicidal course of action in the interests of the countrys on going prosperity are being laid down.

They will be heard. They always are heard and they always have been heard.

The mob of anti-European ideologues that have held the Conservative Party in its thrall ever since John Major found that a majority of about 20 seats - a luxury considering where we are now - was all but impossible to operate is still pulling the same strings, still deploying the same tactics.

It is doing so because they have proved to be incredibly successful.

Just look at how quickly these people have been able to shift the debate, and how easily.

At the beginning of the year, the campaigning group Open Britain produced a video containing quotes by some of the most prominent Brexiteers, and they bear repeating.

Tory Dan Hannan: Absolutely nobody is talking about threatening our place in the single market.

Nigel Farage: Wouldnt it be terrible if we were like Norway and Switzerland? Really? FYI Norway and Switzerland are in the single market.

Tory Owen Paterson: Only a madman would actually leave the market.

UKIPs former sugar daddy Arron Banks (via Twitter): Increasingly the Norway option looks the best for the UK.

Hes wrong, by the way. But what it would be is the least worst option for the UKs economy and its businesses, and perhaps its international standing, because it would prove the country isnt solely dominated by mono-minded Euro-phobes, and is capable of working in partnership with the countries that together make up its biggest export market.

Except, that option appears to have been taken off the table. Whereas once we were told it would be crazy to give it up, its now being reported that the Brexiteers will hold Theresa Mays feet to the fire if she dares to listen to the majority opinion in the House of Commons, and in the country (not all of those who voted for Brexit voted for a hard Brexit).

In the minds of Brexiteers, what her Government should be doing is getting ready to crash out, regardless of the damage that will do to its economy, regardless of the harm that will do to business and jobs. No deal is better than a bad deal!

Even if no deal is the worst possible deal.

Crashing out, and the economic slump that will follow, will hurt everyone, most of all the poorest in society.

But chucking bricks at those that don't care a fig for them and want to see it happen, pointing to their folly, is too easy. After all, we know what they are about by now. They aren't going to change.

If the UK does crash out, if stupid wins the day, the responsibility will not solely be on them.

They have done what they have always done because they have been allowed to.

They have shifted the debate from being in or out of a political union to being out of everything, or else, because no one has really tried to stop it from happening.

Business leaders have finally, if belatedly, started to wake up to the threat facing them and have begun to speak a little more loudly. Some of them have even shaken their fists, if weakly.

As Brexit talks commence, UK firms want practical economic issues to be at the heart of the negotiations. Business wants an atmosphere of pragmatism, civility and mutual respect to characterise this complex process, said the British Chambers of Commerce. Quite right too.

Unfortunately for the BCC, remainers, and even soft Brexiteers in Parliament, havent yet found the courage to push strongly for that.

They have, instead, sleep walked as the Brexiteers have steered the country into a very, very dangerous place.

It is time for them to show some conviction, the same sort conviction, in fact, that the Brexiteers have shown.

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.

Lets not kid ourselves here, there is a reason they won. Their cause is a mad one, but they have fought for it with energy and passion.

To salvage something from the wreckage, so that the BCC and its fellow travellers get what they are calling for, and so the UK has an economy to speak of, their opponents need to take a sip from the same cup. The sensible wing of the Conservative Party needs to follow the advice of its Brexit supporting colleagues. It has to take back control.

If that doesn't happen, Britain could will fall off the precipice it is currently teetering on. They will pay the price for that. So will we all.
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Internet giants will face increased pressure to tackle online extremism as European leaders were expected to back a UK-led drive for tougher internet regulation.

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will lead calls to ensure there is no safe space for terrorists to plot attacks and share radical material online when he attends a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Monday.

In the wake of atrocities in London Bridge and Manchester, Prime Minister Theresa May has urged social media companies such as Google, Facebook and Twitter to take down terrorist content, agreeing measures with G7 leaders in April and a new plan with French President Emmanuel Macron last week.

Mr Johnson will also encourage the bloc's 28 foreign ministers to join forces to track foreign fighters returning from Iraq and Syria.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Mr Johnson said: We are pushing back Daesh militarily, but the threat we face is evolving rather than disappearing as they lose ground in Iraq and Syria.

The fight is moving from the battlefield to the internet.

There should be absolutely no safe space for terrorists plotting attacks, radicalising young people and encouraging others to carry out violence in the name of an obscene ideology.

We all want to protect our people so we must say together that enough is enough. Terrorism affects us all and we need a common approach to ensure the problem gets solved, and at a much faster pace than we are seeing right now."

Press Association
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David Lammy has warned a cover-up could plague the Grenfell Tower disaster and issued an impassioned plea for Theresa May to immediately seize all pertinent documents.

The Labour MP for Tottenham claimed contractors who dealt with the 24-storey west London building had erased details of their work on the now fire-ravaged tower from their websites.

Mr Lammy, whose dear friend Khadija Saye was killed in the fire last week, questioned what concrete actions the Metropolitan Police were taking to address the deadly blaze which is now thought to have claimed 79 lives. He called for urgent action to avoid potential plots to prevent the public discovering the truth about the harrowing catastrophe.

The politician, who was born in his constituency of Tottenham to Guyanese parents, said speaking to residents had made him aware fear of a cover-up is growing. He insisted it was imperative for Ms May and investigators to ensure all relevant documents are safeguarded.

He said: Within the community, trust in the authorities is falling through the floor and a suspicion of a cover-up is rising.

The Prime Minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law.

We need urgent action now to make sure that all records and documents relating to the refurbishment and management of Grenfell Tower are protected.

He argued that justice could only be achieved if all records  emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence with contractors, safety assessments, specifications and reports  are kept safe.

In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Show all 51 1 /51 In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police have released images from inside the tower where at least 58 people have died Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by polices what appears to be a stationary bicycle sitting among the ashes In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by police shows the remnants of a burnt-out bathroom In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Picture showing the lifts on an unknown floor Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency crews outside the front entrance to the tower Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Fire crews inspecting flats in the burnt out tower London Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Grenfell Tower is seen in the distance PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A drone flies near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire 'Theresa May Stay Away' message written on the messages of support at Latymer Community Church for those affected by the fire Ray Tang/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire An aerial view of the area surrounding Grenfall tower Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Donated shoes sit in the Westway Sports Centre near to the site of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of support for those affected by the massive fire in Grenfell Tower are displayed on a well near the tower in London AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A local resident stands on her balcony by the gutted Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of condolence are left at a relief centre close to the scene of the fire that broke out at Grenfell Tower, EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A police officer stands by a security cordon outside Latimer Road station Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firemen examine the scorched facade of the Grenfell Tower in London on a huge ladder AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A search dog is led through the rubble of the Grenfell Tower in London as firefighting continue to damp-down the deadly fire AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn comforts a local resident (name not given) at St Clement's Church in west London where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hugs councillor Mushtaq Lasharie as he arrives at St Clement's Church in Latimer Road, where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn meeting staff and volunteers at St Clementis Church in Latimer Road David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firefighters with a dog walk around the base of the Grenfell Tower REUTERS/Peter Nicholls In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emotions run high as people attend a candle lit vigil outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Debris hangs from the blackened exterior of Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman speaks to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman holds a missing person posters near the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Sadiq Khan speaking with a resident James Gourley/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Ken Livingstone walks near the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is confronted by Kai Ramos, 7, near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to a woman outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers distribute aid near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People gather to observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People light candles as they observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man distributes food from the back of a van near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A firefighter is cheered near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A T-shirt with a written message from the London Fire Brigade hangs from a fence near The Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A young girl on her way to lay flowers near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire The remains of residential tower block Grenfell Tower are seen from Dixon House a nearby tower block Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers prepare supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block which was destroyed in a fire REUTERS/Neil Hall In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers move a car to make space for a lorry picking up supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People distribute boxes of food near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower bloc REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman touches a missing poster for 12-year-old Jessica Urbano on a tribute wall after laying flowers on the side of Latymer Community Church next to the fire-gutted Grenfell Tower AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man looks at messages written on a wall near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Candles and messages of condolence near where the fire broke out at Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry a stretcher towards Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency services at Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry out a body from Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Rick Findler/PA Wire

When the truth comes out about this tragedy we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations, he added. At this stage, it is my grave concern that the families of Grenfell Tower will not get justice if documents are being quietly destroyed and shredded and emails are being deleted.

While police hold the power to seize all documents Section 35 of the Public Inquiry Act which turns the destruction of any documents into a criminal offence does not apply until a chairman is appointed and the terms of reference are established.

Mr Lammy, who has been one of the outspoken and damning politicians to address the event, said trust was low among local west London residents and anger was rising as increasing questions about the inferno remained unanswered.

Grief has quickly turned into rage as it became clear the fatalities had been radically understated and the catastrophe could have been prevented. Alarm bells have also been raised over the cladding used to cover the tower block, which was reportedly cheaper and more flammable than another option available to the supplier.

 David Lammy lambasts the treatment of Grenfell residents by local authority

Speaking to Sky News on Sunday, he said: There are contractors who dealt with the tower, that had the tower on the websites proudly saying that they had worked on the tower, and over the last 24 hours have taken off their website the fact that they worked on the fire.

The question that was being raised yesterday was what else have they got rid of. Have they deleted emails? Have they shredded documents?

He added: People are suspicious that when it involves the state, when it involves the local authority, when it involves a failed TMO, when it involves contractors, suddenly we all go quiet and we talk about it being a tragedy.

They want more than that actually, they want to know what really is going on and they expect to hear that from the Prime Minister and others  that is not me stirring the pot, that is me speaking for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

Recommended David Lammy condemns government failure to support Grenfell victims

Mr Lammy, who previously labelled the fire corporate manslaughter and called for arrests to be made over the disaster, was insistent the PM needed to take immediate action to ensure everyone culpable for the events at Grenfell Tower is held to account and subject to the full burden of the law.

Police announced they had opened a criminal investigation into the inferno a few days ago, with the probe resulting in the prosecution of anyone judged responsible for building or design failures that caused the blaze.

Ms May has ordered a public inquiry into the fire which wrecked the tower block in the early hours of last Wednesday morning but some have argued residents should instead demand an inquest into what happened.

Sophie Khan, a solicitor, warned that in an inquest the Government would lose control and a jury would have the power to deliver its conclusion even if it was uncomfortable to hear. She said an inquest would avoid a whitewash.

The London Fire Brigade has warned it could be years before it releases an investigation report into the incident.

Police have revealed 79 people are confirmed to be either dead or missing and presumed dead, and the number is expected to increase further. The Grenfell Tower blaze is by far the deadliest to shake the capital since World War II.
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The domestic cat has proved to be one of the most successful animals on the planet, managing to capitalise on its close relations with humans to colonise every continent except Antarctica.

Now scientists have discovered that many of todays Felis silvestris lybica are descended from cats who lived thousands of years ago in Ancient Egypt.

Using genetic analysis, the researchers established that cats were first domesticated in the Near East about 10,000 years ago, probably by farmers because of feline skills in dealing with mice and other rodents that raid grain stores. A complete cat skeleton dated to 7,500BC was found associated with a human burial site on the island of Cyprus.

However, it was not until several thousand years later that cats really began the journey that would take them to every corner of the globe.

In Ancient Egypt, cats and humans developed a remarkably close relationship as shown by numerous depictions in art from around 2,000BC.

And it appears something about these Egyptian cats made them particularly appealing and they started to spread into Europe.

The increasing popularity of cats among Mediterranean cultures and particularly their usefulness on ships infested with rodents and other pests presumably triggered their dispersal across the Mediterranean, the researchers wrote in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution.

Indeed, depictions of cats in domestic contexts, already frequent during the New Kingdom in Egypt around 1500BC, [such as] cat under the chair, are found on Greek artefacts from as early as the end of the 6th century BC.

The Egyptian cat must have been very popular, as [two different strains] represented more than half of the maternal lineages in Western Anatolia during the 1st millennium AD, and occurred twice as frequently as the local [strain].

This suggests that the Egyptian cat had properties that made it attractive to humans, presumably acquired during the tightening of the human-cat relationship that developed during the Middle and New Kingdoms [of Egypt] and became even stronger afterwards.

The researchers said the most pronounced genetic changes that distinguish wild from domestic cats were apparently linked to behaviour  something that anyone who has met a Scottish wildcat would readily confirm.

It is tempting to speculate that the success of the Egyptian cat is underlain by changes in its sociability and tameness, they wrote in the paper.

Domestic cats appeared north of the European Alps soon after the Roman conquest but are thought to have been absent from outside the Empire until it started to collapse.

Feline expansion then received another boost from sailors.

In medieval times it was compulsory for seafarers to have cats onboard their ships, leading to their dispersal across routes of trade and warfare, the researchers wrote.

Animals in decline Show all 8 1 /8 Animals in decline Animals in decline Harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) Where: Orkney Islands. What: Between 2001-2006, numbers in Orkney declined by 40 per cent. Why: epidemics of the phocine distemper virus are thought to have caused major declines, but the killing of seals in the Moray Firth to protect salmon farms may have an impact. Alamy Animals in decline African lion (Panthera leo) Where: Ghana. What: In Ghanas Mole National Park, lion numbers have declined by more than 90 per cent in 40 years. Why: local conflicts are thought to have contributed to the slaughter of lions and are a worrying example of the status of the animal in Western and Central Africa. Animals in decline Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) Where: Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Costa Rica. What: Numbers are down in both the Atlantic and Pacific. It declined by 95 per cent between 1989-2002 in Costa Rica. Why: mainly due to them being caught as bycatch, but theyve also been affected by local developments. Alamy Animals in decline Wandering albatross (Diomedea exulans) Where: South Atlantic. What: A rapid decline. One population, from Bird Island, South Georgia, declined by 50 per cent between 1972-2010, according to the British Antarctic Survey. Why: being caught in various commercial longline fisheries. Alamy Animals in decline Saiga Antelope (Saiga tatarica) Where: Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan. What: fall in populations has been dramatic. In the early 1990s numbers were over a million, but are now estimated to be around 50,000. Why: the break up of the former USSR led to uncontrolled hunting. Increased rural poverty means the species is hunted for its meat Animals in decline Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) Where: found worldwide in tropical, subtropical and temperate seas. Why: at risk from overfishing and as a target in recreational fishing. A significant number of swordfish are also caught by illegal driftnet fisheries in the Mediterranean Animals in decline Argali Sheep (Ovis mammon) Where: Central and Southern Asian mountains,usually at 3,000-5,000 metres altitude. Why: domesticated herds of sheep competing for grazing grounds. Over-hunting and poaching. Animals in decline Humphead Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus) Where: the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to South Africa and to the Tuamoto Islands (Polynesia), north to the Ryukyu Islands (south-west Japan), and south to New Caledonia. Why: Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing and trading of the species

This evidence explains, for example, the presence of [a cat with an Egyptian lineage] at the Viking port of Ralswiek, dated between the seventh and 11th century AD.

The same boats also spread black rats and house mice in significant numbers which probably also encouraged cat dispersal for the control of these new pests.

Summing up their findings, the international team of scientists, led by Belgian paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni, wrote that both the Near Eastern and Egyptian populations of Felis silvestris lybica contributed to the gene pool of the domestic cat at different historical times.

While the cats worldwide conquest began during the Neolithic period in the Near East, its dispersal gained momentum during the Classical period, when the Egyptian cat successfully spread throughout the Old World, they said.
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Nasa has announced the discovery of 219 new suspected planets outside our solar system.

The figure includes 10 that are rocky like Earth and which exist in their solar system's 'Goldilocks zone', neither too close to their star, and therefore too hot, nor too far away and too cold for liquid water to exist.

The presence of water is seen as a key factor for the existence of life.

 Nasa reveal plans to fly spacecraft straight into the sun

In a tweet, Nasa said: "Scientists using @NASAKepler have identified 219 potential new worlds!"

The discoveries bring the total number of suspected exoplanets  planets outside our solar system  found by the Kepler space telescope to more than 4,000.

"This carefully measured catalogue is the foundation for directly answering one of astronomys most compelling questions  how many planets like our Earth are in the galaxy? said Susan Thompson, a research scientist at the SETI Institute, which searches for signs of extra-terrestrial life.

And, in a statement, Nasa said: There are now 4,034 planet candidates identified by Kepler. Of which, 2,335 have been verified as exoplanets. Of roughly 50 near-Earth size habitable zone candidates detected by Kepler, more than 30 have been verified.

Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Show all 7 1 /7 Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures The MAVEN spacecraft orbiting Mars EPA Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures Nasa finds flowing water on Mars - in pictures

Additionally, results using Kepler data suggest two distinct size groupings of small planets. Both results have significant implications for the search for life.

Mario Perez, a Kepler programme scientist at Nasa, stressed the importance of the space telescope.

The Kepler data set is unique, as it is the only one containing a population of these near Earth-analogues  planets with roughly the same size and orbit as Earth, he said.

 Nasa unveils futuristic Mars rover concept vehicle

Understanding their frequency in the galaxy will help inform the design of future Nasa missions to directly image another Earth.
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The man suspected of carrying out the Finsbury Park mosque attack has been named locally as 47-year-old Darren Osborne.

The father-of-four from Cardiff was arrested for attempted murder at the scene and taken to a south London police station where he remains in custody.

A statement from the Metropolitan Police said he was subsequently arrested for a second time on suspicion of terrorism offences.

Mr Osborne is reported to have been living in Weston-super-Mare with his partner and children

The attacker, who is believed to have acted alone, struck as the area was busy with worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers in north London.

Nine people were taken to hospital, with one since discharged, while two others were treated at the scene after the attack early on Monday morning.

All of the casualties were Muslims.

Earlier, the Met said it was carrying out searches at a residential address in the Cardiff area.

Police are at a property in Pentwyn, where Mr Osborne is listed as living, in connection with the attack.

Residents said they were "shocked" after seeing photographs of their neighbour being arrested in London.

Saleem Naema, 50, and his young son said the man pictured was their neighbour.

"I can't believe it," Mr Naema, a taxi driver, said.

"I know him. I've lived here for five years, he was already living here when I moved in.

"If I ever needed anything he would come. I am a Muslim."

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Khadijeh Sherizi, who said she lives next door to Mr Osborne, said: "I saw him on the news and I thought 'oh my God' that is my neighbour.

"He has been so normal. He was in his kitchen yesterday afternoon singing with his kids.

"He was the dad of the family. He has kids. He lives next door. He seemed polite and pleasant to me."

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: "Our thoughts are with all those affected by the incident at Seven Sisters Road and their families, friends and communities.

"This is being treated as a terrorist incident and is being investigated by the Counter Terrorism Command. The investigation is ongoing and we are working fast to know the full details of how and why this took place.

"All the victims were from the Muslim community and we will be deploying extra police patrols to reassure the public, especially those observing Ramadan.

"We are working hard to protect all communities and the public will see additional officers patrolling across the city and at Muslim places of worship.

"This was an attack on London and all Londoners. We should all stand together against extremists whatever their cause."

Additional reporting PA
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A watch group for anti-Muslim incidents said it was expecting something to happen after one man has been killed and seven injured in an attack against Finsbury Park mosque.

Hours after a man drove a van into a crowd of Muslims exiting the North London mosque on Saturday night, Tell Mama UK told Radio 4 that anti-Muslim sentiment has been on the rise in recent weeks and the group anticipated an attack.

The injured have been taken to hospital and a 48-year-old suspect has been arrested.

Tell Mama founder Fiyaz Mughal said he had been at the mosque on Seven Sisters Road the previous evening, urging a group of around 50 local Muslims to report any anti-Muslim incidents.

The sad reality is that I was on this mosque on Friday myself explaining to 50 Muslims in that very area to say to the congregation, 'Please report anti-Muslim hatred'. Were not getting much stuff in, he said.

He said he was also concerned about the lack of security measures around the building, and that congregations leaving prayers were not advised the safe way to enter and exit the mosque.

Sadly we were expecting something to happen, said Mr Mughal.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

He continued: The way it works is pretty much there are very large spikes or spikes, we call them measurable spikes, after major terrorist incidences, so Islamist extremist incidences create the largest spikes we see.

We saw that very clearly after Manchester, a very high peak, we saw that clearly after London Bridge, we didn't see it after Westminster.

So the answer to that is yes, these peaks of anti-Muslim hate incidences reported in do go up in very high numbers after terrorist incidences."

 Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park Mosque in London

The attack comes shortly after three radical Islamic extremists ploughed a rental van into pedestrians near London Bridge before exiting the vehicle and randomly stabbing people in bars and restaurants. They killed eight people and injured 47.

In May, 22 people were killed in an explosion at an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena. The attack was carried out by extremist Salman Abedi, who killed himself when he detonated the bomb.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan denounced the mosque attack as an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

Theresa May confirmed the attack was being treated as a potential terror incident, and the remark was also confirmed by home secretary Amber Rudd.

The Metropolitan Police said the eight injured people were taken to three separate hospitals, and two people were treated at the scene just after midnight for minor injuries.
JNU        -:        ,  -    
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A 47-year-man has been arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences after allegedly ploughing a van into a group of worshippers leaving a mosque in Finsbury Park, North London.

The man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder at the scene following the attack just after midnight on Seven Sisters Road outside the Muslim Welfare House which killed one and injured nine.

Scotland Yard released a statement saying the man has now been additionally arrested on suspicion of offences of murder and the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu says: "This is being treated as a terrorist incident and is being investigated by the Counter Terrorism Command.

"All the victims were from the Muslim community and we will be deploying extra police patrols to reassure the public, especially those observing Ramadan.

"We are working hard to protect all communities and the public will see additional officers patrolling across the city and at Muslim places of worship. This was an attack on London and all Londoners. We should all stand together against extremists whatever their cause."

They also confirmed they were carrying out searches at a residential address in the Cardiff area in connection with the attack.

The alleged victims are believed to have been leaving the mosque after attending prayers and eating their evening iftar meal to break their fast for Ramadan.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

The man who died is believed to have collapsed and was being attended to by other worshippers when they were attacked.

He was pronounced dead at the scene at around 1am. Police say inquiries are continuing to establish whether his death was a direct result of the attack.

The attack happened just days after worshippers at the mosque where warned about the increased risk of hate crime against during their holy month.

Islamophobia charity Tell MAMA urged the mosque to remain vigilant during Ramadan as they were at increased risk of being targeted as they more likely to be wearing traditional dress which would identify them as Muslim.
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Jeremy Corbyn has joined community leaders at a Finsbury Park mosque to show his support after a man ploughed a van into Muslims leaving late night prayers, killing one person and injuring eight.

The Labour leader said he was shocked by this horrific and cruel attack in his own constituency which is being treated as a terrorist incident by the Metropolitan Police.

He spoke with emergency services in the early hours of Monday morning shortly after the attack, and returned to the scene later on Monday morning to speak with witnesses.

Recommended May heckled as she leaves Finsbury Park Mosque after van terror attack

An attack on a mosque, an attack on a synagogue, an attack on a church is actually an attack on all of us, he said from the scene.

We have to protect each others faith, each others way of life, and thats what makes us a strong society and community."

He said that he knew local Muslim leaders extremely well and that people were scared that another attack would take place.

At the scene of the incident, he stood beside community and religious leaders, including Mohammed Kozbar, chairman of Finsbury Park Mosque, in support of the Muslim community.

As he walked inside the mosque he was applauded by members of the public, while two men shouted: We love you, Corbyn and A man for the people, prompting cheers.

As the local MP, I have met with Muslim community leaders at the Muslim Welfare House alongside Islington Council Leader Richard Watts, the councils Chief Executive Lesley Seary and the Metropolitan Police," he said in a statement issued after the attack.

Richard and I will attend prayers at Finsbury Park mosque later today.

He also called on everyone to stand together against those who seek to divide us.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

Shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, whose north London constituency is close to the mosque, said the police must urgently review security for all mosques.

Home secretary Amber Rudd condemned the attack and said it was being investigated by Counter Terrorism Command.

Yesterday, like so many others around the country, I took part in the Great Get Together to celebrate the values of Jo Cox, she said, referring to the Yorkshire MP who was killed last June by an extremist.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

It was powerful and moving to see the community come together in a show of solidarity. We must all continue to stand together, resolute, against all those who try to divide us and spread hate and fear.

Prime Minister Theresa May said: Police have confirmed this is being treated as a potential terrorist attack.

I will chair an emergency meeting later this morning.

All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene.

Ms May also arrived at the scene on Monday and was heckled by members of the public.

An anti-Islamophobia group, Tell Mama UK, had spoken to local Muslims at the mosque the day before the attack, warning that there was a lack of security procedure and congregations had not been advised how to enter and exit the building safely.

Tell Mamas founder, Fiyaz Mughal, said the security concern was not isolated to this mosque and that many other places of worship around the city were unprotected.

The attack was also condemned by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

 Finsbury Park attack - what we know so far

This wanton and cruel act can produce no good and cannot be justified or excused, he said.

In exactly the same way as previous recent attacks it is a crime against God and against humanity.

Around midnight on Saturday evening, a white man, 48, drove a van into the Muslim congregation on Seven Sisters Road.

The suspect was held down on the ground by worshippers and local people as he allegedly shouted about killing Muslims.

The suspect has been taken to hospital, as a precaution, according to a police statement, and will undergo a mental health assessment.

The incident follows two recent attacks carried out by radical Islamic extremists in Manchester and London Bridge, killing 30 people.
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Home Secretary Amber Rudd has said police are treating the attack on a North London mosque as a "terrorist incident".

Her confirmation comes hours after a man ploughed a van into a Muslim congregation leaving late night prayers on Seven Sisters Road.

One person has died and eight people were injured and they were taken to three hospitals around the city.

"My thoughts are with all those affected by the appalling incident at Finsbury Park," said Ms Rudd.

"I am in contact with the Metropolitan Police who have confirmed it is being investigated by their Counter Terrorism Command.

"We must all continue to stand together, resolute, against all those who try to divide us and spread hate and fear."

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

London Mayor Sadiq Khan denounced the mosque attack as "an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect".

Labour's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott called for police to review security at mosques. Her constituency in north London is not far from Seven Sisters Road.

Her call for more security around mosques was echoed by Fiyaz Mughal, the founder of an anti-Muslim incident watchdog, and who had been at the mosque on Friday, advising leaders to tell their congregations on the safest way to enter and leave the building.

She tweeted: "Terror attack outside #FinsburyPark mosque. Police must urgently review security for all mosques #StandTogether."

Green Party co-leader Caroline Lucas said her thoughts were with the community and emergency services, adding: "We will not be divided."
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This year, the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr begins on the evening of Saturday 23 May.

The holiday marks the end of Ramadan, a month-long period of fasting and deep reflection.

Translated from Arabic as the feast of the breaking of the fast, Muslims observe the religious holiday by taking part in traditions such as holding prayer services and donating money to charity.

Heres everything you need to know about Eid al-Fitr:

What is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fir follows Ramadan, the Islamic holy month which sees Muslims fast during daylight hours.

Ramadan commemorates the Quran first being revealed to the Prophet Muhammad and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Show all 30 1 /30 Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Britain Muhammad, 4, and Sanaa, 6, (left) arrive for the Eid celebrations in Small Heath Park, Birmingham PA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Pakistan Muslims girls show their hands painted with henna to celebrate the Eid al-Fitr at a Mosque in Peshawar AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Libya Muslim worshippers gather to perform Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Martyrs Square of the capital Tripoli. Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Fitr marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Lebanon Palestinian girls ride on human-powered swings at an amusement park EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Syria Syrians shop in the Bazurieh market in Damascus' historic bazaar ahead of Eid al-Fitr AFP/Getty Images Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Lebanon Children wave their hands as they pass in a mini transport car inside Sabra and Shatila Refugee Camp during Eid al-Fitr in Beirut EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Pakistan Muslims greet each other after offering the Eid al-Fitr prayers at a Mosque in Peshawar AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Pakistan Muslims greet each other after a morning prayer session to celebrate Eid al-Fitr in Peshawar EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Turkey Muslim worshippers perform Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Suleymaniye mosque in Istanbul AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Romania Girls wait for the start of Eid al-Fitr prayers in Bucharest AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Afghanistan Muslims greet each other after a morning prayer session in Jalalabad EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Romania A boy attends Eid al-Fitr prayers in Bucharest AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Bangladesh People cram onto a train as they travel back home to meet their families ahead of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr, in Dhaka AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Kenya Muslim women take pictures with their mobile phone after attending Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Pumwani grounds in Nairobi AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Democratic Republic of the Congo Young Muslim worshippers are seen ahead of a mass prayer to celebrate Eid al-Fitr at the Stade des Martyrs, Kinshasa AFP/Getty Images Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Kosovo Young Muslim devotees perform Eid al-Fitr prayers at the grand mosque in Pristina AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Kenya A muslim girl decorated with Hina on her hands at the Pumwani grounds in Nairobi AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Afghanistan Children play during the first day of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr in Kabul Reuters Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Libya Men exchange Eid al-Fitr greetings at the port of Benghazi AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Saudi Arabia Two women embrace each other to as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr, after prayers in the courtyard of the mosque of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Britain Two young worshippers eat ice cream during Eid celebrations in Small Heath Park PA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Russia Muslims attend a morning prayer session to celebrate Eid al-Fitr on the street outside the Central Mosque in Moscow EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Saudi Arabia Men embrace each other to as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr, after prayers in the courtyard of the mosque of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Turkey Muslims offer prayers during the first day of Eid al-Fitr at the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Afghanistan Men greet each other after offering Eid al-Fitr prayer at the presidential palace in Kabul EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Saudi Arabia Adults take pictures of children in their new clothes after Eid al-Fitr prayers EPA Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Albania Muslims pray at Skenderbej square on the first day of the Muslim festival marking the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan in Tirana AFP/Getty Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Afghanistan Men hug each other after offering Eid al-Fitr prayers during the Eid al-Fitr at the presidential palace in Kabul AP Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Albania Muslims attend the morning prayers of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan in Skanderbeg square Tirana Reuters Eid 2019: Celebrations across the world Syria People shop in the old city of Damascus EPA

Eid al-Fitr marks an end to the solemn period of reassessment that is Ramadan.

When is the festival?

Ramadan lasts between 29 and 30 days, depending on when a new moon is sighted by local religious authorities.

The sighting of the new moon means that Eid al-Fitr can commence.

Recommended Thousands worship at Grand Mosque in Mecca for Ramadan

Precisely when followers choose to observe it varies because there is some discussion within the faith about whether the moon must be spotted with the naked eye and whether it needs to be seen in the country where the celebrations are happening.

The date of Eid al-Fitr depends on the lunar calendar, which is why it falls on a different date on the Gregorian calendar on an annual basis.

This year, Eid al-Fitr takes place from the evening of Saturday 23 May until the evening of Sunday 24 May.

The festival is a day when Muslims thank god, known as Allah in Arabic, for strength and blessings, hoping the commemoration of Ramadan has brought them closer to god.

It was first celebrated by Muhammad in 624CE following a victory in battle.

How is it celebrated?

Several traditions are observed on Eid al-Fitr, one of which involves the reciting of a certain set of prayers especially for the occasion called Salat al-Eid.

Muslims will generally gather at mosques or in open-air locations such as parks to recite the prayers on the first morning of the festival.

They will then sit down with their family and friends for breakfast, their first daylight meal following a month of fasting.

However, this year traditional celebration practises may have significantly adapted due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Traditionally, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated for three days and is a national holiday in Muslim countries.

In the UK, Muslims tend to celebrate the festival for a day and may take time off work or school for the occasion.

Another important tradition is Zakat al-Fitr  the act of giving charity to the poor at the end of Ramadan.

In 2016, it was estimated that British Muslims gave on average 371 each to charity during Ramadan.

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Whats the difference between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha takes place later on in the year, and is considered a holier observance than Eid al-Fitr.

It takes place on the 10th day of the final month of the Islamic calendar, and involves Muslims from around the world travelling the Mecca for pilgrimage.

This year, Eid al-Adha takes place from the evening of Thursday 30 July to Monday 3 August.

It is known as the sacrifice feast, and honours the prophet Ibrahims sacrifice of his son Ishmael, an act of submission under the order of Allah.

How to wish someone a happy Eid

The phrase commonly used by Muslims to wish someone a happy Eid is Eid Mubarak, which translates to Blessed Eid in Arabic.
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The number of suspected far-right extremists flagged to the Governments key anti-terror programme soared by 30 per cent in the past year, The Independent has learnt.

The dramatic rise can be revealed after Muslim worshippers were mowed down outside a north London mosque in the early hours of Monday morning by a man driving a van in what police described as a terrorist attack.

The suspect has been named as 47-year-old Darren Osborne, a father-of-four from Cardiff, who was arrested on suspicion of terror offences and attempted murder and remains in custody.

One man died at the scene and a further 11 were injured, but the attacker was not previously known to security services. Eyewitnesses claimed he shouted: "I'm going to kill all Muslims," before making "taunting" gestures and laughing.

Theresa May said the attack was every bit as sickening as the recent Islamist terror attacks on Manchester and London and promised to stamp out extremist ideologies of all kinds.

The Governments counter-terror Prevent scheme  championed by the Prime Minister during her time as Home Secretary  has been criticised amid claims it has focused disproportionately on Islamic terrorism.

(AFP/Getty)

But just under a third of all people being monitored under the Channel programme in 2016/17 part of the Prevent terror prevention scheme  believe in extreme right-wing ideologies and are vulnerable to radicalisation, according to unpublished Home Office figures. The figure rose from 25 per cent in 2015/16.

The spike in cases comes a year after MP Jo Cox was murdered by far-right terrorist Thomas Mair and follows a dramatic rise in the number of hate crimes reported against black and minority ethnic groups and religions.

Recommended What we can learn from the Finsbury Park Mosque attack

Tim Farron, leader of the Liberal Democrats, said a lack of government action to tackle the rise of the extreme far-right has produced a better climate for attacks to occur.

While all the rhetoric from the Conservative government has been about Islamic fundamentalism, it has largely ignored the rising threat from white extremists who are every bit as dangerous and depraved as any other terrorist, he said.

Sadly I am not convinced that Theresa May even knows where to start when it comes to bringing our divided communities together. Instead of being open, tolerant and united she is practising the politics of divide and rule. Clearly the responsibility for terrorist outrages lies with the terrorists. But that doesnt mean government cant produce a better climate.

Fiyaz Mughal, founder of Tell Mama, a group that aims to tackle anti-Muslim hatred, said there had been a systemic failure in identifying the threat posed by the far-right in the UK. It is high time judges, it is high time this Government, and it is high time the police start to really address this issue and accept it is not just free speech, he said.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

We knew this was coming, I could have told you two years ago that it was going to be a mosque and it was going to be Ramadan, we knew it and we have been lobbying and we have been pushing for this threat to be taken more seriously.

The jump in the number of far-right cases being dealt with by Prevent comes after a record number of white people were arrested last year on suspicion of terrorism.

Official statistics found 91 out of a total 260 people held on suspicion of terrorism offences were white  a rise of 20 from 2015 and the highest number since 2003.

White suspects made up 35 per cent  or one in three  of all terror related arrests in 2016, compared with 25 per cent in 2015. Home Office figures also showed 41 per cent of people who were stopped and searched under anti-terror legislation between 2009 and 2016 were white.

Ms May and Jeremy Corbyn visited the scene of Monday's attack on Seven Sisters Road to offer their solidarity to the local community, along with Home Secretary Amber Rudd and London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

Mr Khan said the attack, like those perpetrated in Manchester and London Bridge, appeared to be targeting a particular community and was "an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect".

 Sadiq Khan meets Jeremy Corbyn on scene of Finsbury Park attack

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott said the Prevent scheme must now undergo a "complete overhaul" to better encompass the diverse range of threats facing UK residents, including far-right extremism.

There is a widespread distrust because it is felt that it targets just one community, she said. Tragically, we see that there are multiple terrorist threats facing us, including the far right, al-Qaeda or Isis-inspired terrorists as well as others.

We know that a large proportion of referrals to Prevent involve far right or fascist terrorism, but it is far less clear whether this is reflected in the charging or conviction rates.

Recommended British pluralism and diversity must prevail after Finsbury Park

Terrorism affects us all. To be effective, counter-terrorism needs the support of us all. This means effective intelligence ... it also means uniting all communities against our common enemy, the terrorist perpetrators.

Dr Paul Jackson, a historian from University of Northampton and an expert on far-right terrorism, said far-right threats are often not recognised as terrorism as they do not always fit the stereotypical ideas of organised terror networks.

People have a certain image in their head about terrorism  with Islamist extremism they think of Isis, of it being directed by an overarching network, meanwhile the far-right doesn't have a single organisation that pushes people to commit these acts, he told The Independent.

He said many of the far-right groups such as the English Defence League or British National Party had produced splinter groups that hold more hardline extremist motivations. He believes even if there is not one single overarching ideology, lone far-right extremists can sometimes be really sophisticated and very engaged in violent political acts.
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Witnesses to the suspected Finsbury Park terrorist attack claim a man shouted I'm going to kill all Muslims after a van ploughed into people near the area's mosque.

At least one person was killed and another 10 injured when a van hit pedestrians following prayers at the Finsbury Park mosque in north London in the early hours of Monday morning.

A witness said he heard a man saying: 'I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims'.

Recommended May and Corbyn offer condolences after Finsbury Park attack

The man, who wanted to be identified as Abdulrahman, which is not his real name, said he and his friends had stopped to help an elderly man who was lying on the floor at around 12.20am on Monday.

"In seconds this terrible thing happened,"' he said.

"Literally within a minute, a van with speed turned to where we were and ran over the man who was laying on the floor and the people around him, around eight people or 10 people got injured, some of them seriously. Thank God I'm safe, but my friends got injured."

The van driver, described by witnesses as a large white man, was detained by members of the public after the attack in Seven Sisters Road.

Abdulrahman said: "I managed to get the driver of the van when he came out of his van.

"He wanted to run away and was saying, 'I want to kill Muslims'. So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, until the police arrived.

"People were very upset, people were shouting, people were saying, 'where's the police, where's the ambulance?' People were saying, 'keep him on the ground', people were asking questions, saying 'why did you do this?' People were laying down on the floor."

Abdulrahman claimed the driver said "kill me", as he was holding his head on the ground.

He added: "I said, 'tell me why did you try driving to kill innocent people?' When he went into the [police] van he made gestures, he was laughing.

"He deliberately did this. He caused this incident."

Abdulrahman said he believed the old man, who had been lying on the ground before the attack, had passed away, while some of his friends remain in hospital.

Prime Minister Theresa May said police were treating it as a potential terrorist attack.

London mayor Sadiq Khan said: While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

Another witness said: From the window, I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching, a lot of chaos outside. Everybody was shouting, 'A van's hit people, a van's hit people.'

There was this white van stopped outside Finsbury Park mosque that seemed to have hit people who were coming out after prayers had finished.

Another, who asked not to be named, said: He just came into all of us. There was a lot of people. We got told to move straight away.

I was shocked, shocked, shocked. There were bodies around me. Thank God I just moved to the side, I just jumped. Everyone is hurt. Everyone is actually hurt.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Andrew, a courier who did not wish to give his surname, said he saw three people on the floor, at least one of whom appeared to be in Muslim dress.

The 45-year-old, of St Albans, Hertfordshire, said he was driving back from a night shift when he saw the aftermath of the collision.

He said: When I drove past slowly I could count three people on the floor and police were performing CPR on one of them.

Additional reporting by Press Association
 Close Finsbury Park attack - what we know so far

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One person has died and eight people have been taken to hospital after being hit by a van in a "potential terror attack" near a north London mosque.

The van driver, described by eyewitnesses as a large white man, was detained by members of the public after the attack in Seven Sisters Road at 12.20am on Monday.

One witness described being surrounded by bodies in the wake of the attack outside the Muslim Welfare House, close to Finsbury Park mosque.

Eyewitnesses said the attacker shouted about killing Muslims as he was held by local people.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, said it was an attack on common values.

"Like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect," he said in a statement.

Prime Minister Theresa May said: "Police have confirmed this is being treated as a potential terrorist attack.

"I will chair an emergency meeting later this morning.

"All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene."

An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park in north London, where one person has been arrested after a vehicle struck pedestrians (PA Wire/PA Images) (PA)

The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: "One man was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Officers are in the process of informing next of kin. A post mortem examination will be scheduled due course.

"Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals; two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries."

Police man a cordon at the scene in the Finsbury Park area of north London (Tolga Akmen/AFP/Getty)

Commenting on reports that the van driver also produced a knife, the statement went on: "At this stage there are no reports of any persons having suffered any knife injuries.

"The driver of the van - a man aged 48 - was found detained by members of public at the scene and then arrested by police in connection with the incident.

"He has been taken to hospital as a precaution and will be taken into custody once discharged.

"He will also be subject of a mental health assessment in due course."

The force said the investigation of the incident is being carried out by the Counter Terrorism Command.
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Members of the Finsbury Park Muslim community have expressed fears of further attacks after a van was driven into worshippers leaving midnight Ramadan prayers.

The attack took place around 12.20am, with eyewitnesses reporting that the driver drove the white van towards one group of people and then swerved in order to hit another group on the other side of the road.

The timing of the attack left members of the mosque in no doubt that they were deliberately targeted or that the time had been chosen because the attacker knew there would be a large number of Muslims in the area.

One eyewitness, who gave his name as Abdul, told The Independent: "People gather on that part of the street during Ramadan to chat and socialise so it was premeditated. He knew what he was doing.

"He waited until people had come out then drove at the people on the right then swerved to hit people on the left.

A 47-year-old man, Darren Osborne, has been detained by police, who say they believe the suspect was acting alone.

As crowds gathered outside the mosque to pay their respects to those killed and injured in the attack, Aisha Amir stood next to the police cordon with her friend, Ijeoma Mbanye, holding signs that read United Against All Terror. She told The Independent that Muslim people in the area would be scared to leave their homes following the attack.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Every time they go out people are going to feel they arent safe, she said. People are going to be afraid to go out. Youre going about your own business and then all of a sudden youre attacked and youre on the floor. I am scared but I also think were all human and we should all love each other.

Eight-year-old Abdirahman Muhammed, who lives near the mosque, was speaking alongside his mother, Mona, having heard the attack take place. He said: Im really scared. They keep saying he did it deliberately. When I was sleeping I could hear it and I couldnt even sleep. I kept on opening my eyes and I was scared. I thought there was going to be a big lorry crashing into our house.

Amina Abdi, 50, who attends a mosque in nearby Hornsey, said she and her friends were shocked by the incident.

Its confused young men, Islamists, that cause people to do this. But yes, we have been victimised in the press too. It has been treated as if our religion is responsible, she said.

 Finsbury attack: Imam who protected van suspect and fought off crowd describes events

We always feel guilty when walking around, as if people suspect us to be terrorists. But really its young people, spending their days alone.

We expected some retaliation [for London terror attacks] but we didnt know what it would be.

Ive been in London for 30 years, and its a very safe city, so Im really saddened by these recent attacks.

Throughout the day political leaders arrived to give their support to the local community. Jeremy Corbyn, whose Islington North constituency the mosque is in, was first to arrive, followed by Sajid Javid, the Communities and Local Government Secretary.

In the afternoon, Theresa May held a meeting at the mosque with community representatives and other leaders including Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick and Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott while, at the same time, Jeremy Corbyn met with worshippers in a room upstairs.

Mr Corbyn, who as the local MP is well known to the community, received a rapturous round of applause after his speech. Ms May was also praised by some of those present at the meeting, although the Prime Minister was heckled by local residents as she left the building.
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Right-wing commentators have reacted angrily to suggestions they were complicit in the radicalisation of a man who attacked Muslims outside a mosque in north London.

One man was killed after the driver of a van, described as a large white man, targeted people near the Finsbury Park Mosque.

JK Rowling responded to the incident, which is being treated as terrorist attack, by tweeting a photo of Ukips Breaking Point poster alongside the words: Let's talk about how the #FinsburyPark terrorist was radicalised.

 Finsbury Park attack - how the UK reacted

She also included a tweet from the partys former leader, Nigel Farage, who said the awful attack early on Monday morning could only make this worse.

In his reply, Mr Farage accused the Harry Potter author of having ignorantly chosen not to listen to my repeated comments about not going to war with Islam.

Your prejudice is unhelpful, he added.

Ukips Breaking Point poster, showing a queue of refugees and migrants which was used during the EU referendum campaign, was reported to police last June over claims that it incited racial hatred.

It drew comparisons with Nazi propaganda footage showing migrants arriving in Europe.

Ms Rowling also criticised former reality TV contestant Katie Hopkins over comments she made in May, when she encouraged Western men to stand up. Rise up. Demand Action.

Again: let's talk about how the #FinsburyPark terrorist was radicalised, Ms Rowling said in a second tweet on Monday morning.

In her reply, Hopkins called the Scotland-based author christianophobic  a word not recognised by the Oxford English Dictionary  and threatened to report her to the police. She later clarified this was a joke.

Other right-wing commentators piled in to censure Ms Rowling.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Toby Young, an associate editor at the Spectator, accused her of exploiting terrorist incidents for political gain.

Former Sunday Express columnist Julia Hartley-Brewer tweeted: Yeah, I was waiting for this. Elected politicians calling for limits on immigration are now responsible for inciting terrorism, are they?

To which Ms Rowling responded: Yeah, I was waiting for this. We're fine with using pictures of Syrian refugees to whip up resentment about immigration, are we?

But those on Ms Rowlings side of the argument also offered their support, with Brendan Cox, the husband of murdered MP Jo Cox, tweeting: Pathetic to see far right now try & portray their incitement to violence as simple commentary. You hear same excuses from islamist apologists.

Speaking from Downing Street, Theresa May said the attack on Muslims was "every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life" as the recent string of terror attacks apparently motivated by Islamist extremism, adding: "We will stop at nothing to defeat it.

"Today we come together, as we have done before, to condemn this act and to state once again that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed."
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The widower of murdered MP Jo Cox has spoken out in the wake of the Finsbury Park attack and argued far-right extremists and Islamist extremists should be subject to the same treatment.

Brendan Cox argued such fanatical, immoderate individuals are guided by the same principles and united by their abhorrence for diversity and belief in supremacy.

Writing on Twitter just hours after the suspected terror attack, he said: Far right fascists and Islamist terrorists are driven by same hatred of difference, same ideology of supremacy and use same tactics. We'll defeat both.

When Islamist terrorists attack we rightly seek out hate preachers who spur them on. We must do the same to those who peddle Islamophobia.

Mr Cox, who has often called on Britain to unite against hatred in the wake of his wifes tragic death, added: Pathetic to see the far-right now try and portray their incitement to violence as simple commentary. You hear same excuses from Islamist apologists.

Appearing on Radio 4s Today programme, Mr Cox said while the public needed to know the full facts before they could judge what had happened, it was becoming clearer the attack was driven by an act of hatred not just of insanity.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

He argued that while the person who committed the act of violence needed to take full responsibility for his actions, Britain needed to get better at examining the context in which events such as these occur. He suggested people who hold extremist views were feeling increasingly emboldened to act on their beliefs in the current political climate, citing President Donald trumps comments about Muslims as an example of heightened xenophobia.

Weve spoken about and talked a lot about what we can do to crack down on those [Islamist extremist] hate preachers but there are also extremists who are using language about cleansing Britain of Islam who are talking about a final solution for Muslims.

He added: Youll see online and its very clear that there are a series of organisations who are actively inciting hatred, not against extremists, but against Muslims as a whole. I think those people are very well organised, theyre very well-funded and well-financed.

Mr Cox was insistent Britain needed to treat last nights events like we have discussed terrorist events which shook London and Manchester in recent weeks, saying: We have to treat this act of terrorism, if thats what it ends up being, in the same way, that we would treat any other act of terrorism.

 Finsbury Park attack - what we know so far

We all have to look at ourselves and actually more mainstream organisations and media organisations, who probably dont tip over into the active incitement of violence, but I do think sometimes blur the distinction and talk in a way where people think that Muslims as a whole are represented by people who commit the attacks in Manchester or London. They dont in the same way that this attack does not represent the vast majority of people.

His comments follow a weekend of celebrations to mark the anniversary of his wifes death and celebrate her life and enduring legacy. He organised the Great Get Together from 16-18 June, which saw thousands of gatherings such as street parties, picnics and coffee mornings take place across the country.

The Labour MP, who was a mother-of-two, was brutally shot and stabbed by a far-right extremist in Birstall, in her constituency of Batley and Spen in June last year.

One person has died and eight people have been taken to a hospital after a van ploughed into people near a north London mosque last night.

The van driver, described by witnesses as a large white man, was detained by members of the public after the attack at Finsbury Park.

One witness recalled being surrounded by bodies in the wake of the attack outside the Muslim Welfare House, which is on Seven Sisters Road, and a few hundred metres from Finsbury Park mosque. Another said the attacker shouted about killing Muslims as he attempted to flee the scene before being held by local residents.

The driver of the van - a man aged 48 - was found detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police in connection with the incident, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said.

He has been taken to hospital as a precaution and will be taken into custody once discharged.

"He will also be the subject of a mental health assessment in due course."

It was the third recent incident in the capital in which a vehicle has been used to kill, and Muslims who gathered in the area discussed worries of being targeted in hate attacks.
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Darren Osborne, the man suspected of deliberately driving a van into a crowd of worshippers outside a mosque in north London, injuring 11 people and possibly killing another man, was unknown to security services, according to the Government.

Police are treating the incident, which took place as worshippers were leaving the mosque in Finsbury Park just after midnight on Monday, as a terror attack  the third such atrocity to hit the capital in recent months, after vehicles were used to mow down pedestrians in Westminster and on London Bridge.

Security minister Ben Wallace said 47-year-old Osborne from Cardiff, was not known to the authorities in the space of extremism or far-right extremism. He is believed to have acted alone, but police said they are investigating all circumstances leading up to the attack. Searches are being carried out at a residential address in the Welsh capital.

Osborne was originally arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, but he is now also facing charges relating to the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism.

One man died at the scene, but police are investigating whether he died as a result of the attack or a separate health emergency, as he was already receiving first aid on the pavement outside the mosque at the time.

Theresa May said the Government will review security at mosques across Britain, vowing that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed. Outside Downing Street, the Prime Minister said the attack on Muslims near their place of worship was every bit as sickening as those which have come before.

Extra police resources have already been deployed to reassure communities, and the police will continue to assess the security needs of Mosques and provide any additional resources needed, especially during this final week before Eid Al-Fitr, a particularly important time for the whole Muslim community, she said.

There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years  and that means extremism of any kind, including Islamophobia. That is why this Government will act to stamp out extremist and hateful ideology  both across society and on the internet, so it is denied a safe space to grow.

 Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn have contrasting receptions at Finsbury Park mosque visits

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said: My thoughts are with all those affected by the appalling incident at Finsbury Park.

I am in contact with the Metropolitan Police who have confirmed it is being investigated by their Counter Terrorism Command.

We must all continue to stand together, resolute, against all those who try to divide us and spread hate and fear.

Labour's shadow home secretary Diane Abbott, whose Hackney North and Stoke Newington constituency lies close to the scene, called for police to review security at mosques.

She tweeted: Terror attack outside #FinsburyPark mosque. Police must urgently review security for all mosques #StandTogether.

Green Party co-leader Caroline Lucas said her thoughts were with the community and emergency services, adding: We will not be divided.

Ms May met faith leaders at Finsbury Park Mosque the afternoon after the attack, but faced heckles as she left the building. Crowds shouted Have you got a faster taxi today? and how can you be so quick today?, a criticism of her response to last weeks devastating fire at Grenfell Tower in west London, in which 79 people are presumed dead.

At around 12.20am, a speeding white van swerved into people gathered outside the Muslim Welfare House mosque on Seven Sisters Road. Nine people were taken to hospital and two were treated at the scene. All the victims were Muslim.

The Metropolitan Police said they "responded instantly"and armed officers were on the scene within ten minutes.

Abdul Rashid, 18, who witnessed the aftermath of the attack, described the driver as desensitised and said he wasn't distressed, not in the slightest. He told The Independent it appeared the suspect knew exactly what he was doing.

When people were holding him down he was saying 'you can kill me, I've done my job'. He was saying he had come here to kill Muslims, said Mr Rashid. He looked blank. You could tell he didn't care. It was 100 per cent deliberate.

Searches are being carried out at a residential address in Cardiff in connection with the mosque attack, according to the Metropolitan Police. Images of the van used in the attack showed it was rented from Pontyclun Van Hire, around 12 miles west of Cardiff.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the capital would stay strong in the difficult period and not allow these terrorists to succeed.

While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect, he said.

There has been a reported surge in hate crime against Muslims in Britain following the London attacks carried out by Islamist extremists and a suicide bombing at an Ariana Grande concert at Manchester Arena on May 22 that killed 22 people, almost half of whom were aged under 20.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

The week after the Manchester attack, which was claimed by Isis, verified reports of Islamophobic hate crimes increased more than fivefold, according to the organisation Tell Mama, which monitors anti-Muslim hatred in Britain.

In the seven days after the London Bridge attack on 3 June, there was a 240 per cent rise in reported hate crimes, said the charity. Figures from City Hall also show a sharp rise in anti-Muslim incidents after three attackers hit pedestrians on the bridge before launching a knife attack on people in bars and restaurants in nearby Borough Market.

An imam reportedly saved the van driver involved in the suspected Finsbury Park attack from being attacked by members of the public in the immediate aftermath of the crash. One witness said the furious crowd might have injured or killed Osborne were it not for the intervention of Mohammed Mahmoud.

An eyewitness who gave his name as Abdul told The Independent Osborne tried to run away but we brought him down. He would've died because so many people were punching him but the imam came out and said 'No more punching, let's keep him down until the police come'.

Community groups and charities have condemned the attack, warning against entering a cycle of tit-for-tat violence that is the goal of extremists. In a statement, the organisation Hope Not Hate said we must oppose far-right extremism with the same intensity that we oppose Islamist extremism - a plague on both their houses is our call, as we said back in 2013 after the murder of Lee Rigby.
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Police have confirmed all the victims of a suspected terror attack near a mosque in north London are Muslim.

One man has died and several more are injured after a van drove into a group of people in Finsbury Park shortly after midnight on Monday morning.

Counter terror police are investigating the incident, where eight people were taken to hospital and two more were treated at the scene.

:: Follow the latest updates in our live blog

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, senior national coordinator for counter terrorism, said: From 00:21hrs this morning police received a number calls to Seven Sisters Road following a van having collided with pedestrians.

Officers were in the immediate vicinity as the attack unfolded and responded instantly. Additional officers arrived within 10 minutes. One man was pronounced dead at the scene. Eight others are in hospital and two more were treated at the scene.

All the victims were from the Muslim community."

Mr Basu added that the man who died on the scene was already receiving first aid from members of the public and it is not yet known if his death was caused by the attack.

Eye witnesses said the attacker was heard saying: "I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims as he carried out the attack.

One eye witness, who did not want to give his real name, told reporters: "I managed to get the driver of the van when he came out of his van. He wanted to run away and was saying, 'I want to kill Muslims',"

"So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, until the police arrived."

Police praised members of the public for detaining the man suspected of being the driver of the van, who was arrested by police on suspicion of attempted murder.

I would like to praise police officers who immediately gave life saving treatment at the scene, but also members of the public who assisted before and after the incident," said Mr Basu.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

Also at the scene, detained by members of the public, was the man suspected of being the driver. He was arrested by police on suspicion of attempted murder.

I would like to thank those people who helped police in detaining the man and worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him into our custody."

No other suspects have been identified or reported, and there were no reports of any people having suffered any knife injuries, police said.
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Undocumented migrants and illegal subtenants who survived the Grenfell Tower blaze may be unaccounted for and are not seeking state support due to fears over their immigration and housing status, charities and legal experts have warned. Underreporting of illegal subtenants could also mean the death toll is higher than currently assumed, it is feared.

Volunteers and charities working for the support effort in the local community have come across a number of undocumented migrants or asylum seekers who have lost everything following the blaze, but are afraid to seek help from authorities for fears that they could be referred onto police or the Home Office.

Members of the community have also raised concerns that large swathes of foreign nationals who lived in the block and may have been undocumented have simply disappeared and are not on any missing lists, raising concerns that they have either fled the site or are among the dead but unaccounted for.

 Emotional tribute from firemen to Grenfell Tower victims

The Radical Housing Network, a London-wide organisation of which the Grenfell Action Group is a member, has called on authorities to rehouse all residents locally, regardless of their residential or immigration status, urging they must commit to rehousing all residents.

Amid the mounting concerns, a government source said the Met police had committed that if victims living in the UK illegally contact the hotline set up for victims, they will take no action. They did not mention whether Home Office officials would have any involvement.

One local volunteer, who didn't want to be named, said she had heard multiple reports that undocumented migrants living in the flats had deliberately disappeared following the blaze, including a large group of Filipinos.

 Grenfell fire death toll climbs to 79

There must have been a bunch of people in that building who probably escaped on the night and probably ran away from the situation. There has been speak from other residents of a whole load of Filipinos living in there that no one has seen since it happened, she said.

There will have been other people living in those flats it seems who will have been undocumented. Those people were never there in the first place as far as the social services are concerned. Because of the awful fire, their wont be any remains either, so there will be this swathe of people who sort of didnt exist.

The volunteer said she had come across a young woman who was an over-stayer in the UK and had been living with her boyfriend as a subtenant in his flat since February, and was very scared of approaching authorities. Her boyfriend has gone missing and is believed to have died in the blaze. She is very scared and doesn't want to deal with the police at all," said the volunteer.

She told me she acted dumb in front of police because she wasn't legal. She was frightened. These people worry that the council is in the firing line so if they speak out theyll hold off sorting out their paperwork. Of course theres going to be an underlining fear if youre not completely above board.

In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Show all 51 1 /51 In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police have released images from inside the tower where at least 58 people have died Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by polices what appears to be a stationary bicycle sitting among the ashes In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by police shows the remnants of a burnt-out bathroom In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Picture showing the lifts on an unknown floor Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency crews outside the front entrance to the tower Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Fire crews inspecting flats in the burnt out tower London Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Grenfell Tower is seen in the distance PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A drone flies near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire 'Theresa May Stay Away' message written on the messages of support at Latymer Community Church for those affected by the fire Ray Tang/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire An aerial view of the area surrounding Grenfall tower Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Donated shoes sit in the Westway Sports Centre near to the site of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of support for those affected by the massive fire in Grenfell Tower are displayed on a well near the tower in London AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A local resident stands on her balcony by the gutted Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of condolence are left at a relief centre close to the scene of the fire that broke out at Grenfell Tower, EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A police officer stands by a security cordon outside Latimer Road station Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firemen examine the scorched facade of the Grenfell Tower in London on a huge ladder AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A search dog is led through the rubble of the Grenfell Tower in London as firefighting continue to damp-down the deadly fire AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn comforts a local resident (name not given) at St Clement's Church in west London where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hugs councillor Mushtaq Lasharie as he arrives at St Clement's Church in Latimer Road, where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn meeting staff and volunteers at St Clementis Church in Latimer Road David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firefighters with a dog walk around the base of the Grenfell Tower REUTERS/Peter Nicholls In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emotions run high as people attend a candle lit vigil outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Debris hangs from the blackened exterior of Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman speaks to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman holds a missing person posters near the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Sadiq Khan speaking with a resident James Gourley/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Ken Livingstone walks near the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is confronted by Kai Ramos, 7, near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to a woman outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers distribute aid near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People gather to observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People light candles as they observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man distributes food from the back of a van near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A firefighter is cheered near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A T-shirt with a written message from the London Fire Brigade hangs from a fence near The Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A young girl on her way to lay flowers near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire The remains of residential tower block Grenfell Tower are seen from Dixon House a nearby tower block Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers prepare supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block which was destroyed in a fire REUTERS/Neil Hall In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers move a car to make space for a lorry picking up supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People distribute boxes of food near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower bloc REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman touches a missing poster for 12-year-old Jessica Urbano on a tribute wall after laying flowers on the side of Latymer Community Church next to the fire-gutted Grenfell Tower AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man looks at messages written on a wall near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Candles and messages of condolence near where the fire broke out at Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry a stretcher towards Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency services at Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry out a body from Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Rick Findler/PA Wire

Zrinka Bralo, chief executive of Migrants Organise, a support group working in the north Kensington area, said she had come across a male Somali asylum seeker who had lived in the building and was afraid to seek help, adding that there were also many foreign nationals who had not yet appeared on missing people lists. We helped a Somali man who had been waiting for an asylum decision, and obviously he lost all his papers in the fire. He was afraid to get help, but we encouraged him to go to the north Kensington law centre and he did, and is now getting legal support, Ms Bralo told The Independent.

We havent even established the number of victims yet and who they are. We know from our community contacts that Moroccans who were not on any of the lists, Sudanese, Eritrean and Ethiopian families who are not on any of the lists.

Community members are organising wakes and theyre trying to figure out where people are. My main message now is that people shouldnt be afraid. They should come to the law centre where they will be seen and helped.

Jolyon Maugham, barrister and director of the Good Law Project, said it is challenging for residents who don't have migrant status, are subletting apartments or are reliant on benefits, to trust the authorities that that are "suspicious and sometimes hostile" towards them. He along with campaigners is calling for an immigration status amnesty for anybody living at the tower block.

Mr Maugham told The Independent: There are concerns for Grenfell Tower residents without migrant status, and also concerns for those who were subletting apartments, and those receiving benefits and whether receiving money will affect your entitlement to benefits.

Its very easy for middle-class people to assume that these objections are all superficial, but the reality is people are very concerned, and I think that if you live in that world that you know how difficult it is to deal with suspicious and sometimes hostile authority.

The public inquiry into the Grenfell fire will explore the council's actions (AFP/Getty)

People may think Im not going to get any compensation Im just going to get deported. Public authorities must commit to rehousing all residents to ensure their future safety and security."

Grenfell was home to council tenants, private renters, homeowners, subtenants and people staying with family and friends. The council has a responsibility to all of these people. No one should be left in a worse situation by this tragedy.

A spokesperson from Radical Housing Network urged that public authorities ensure the future safety and security of all residents, saying: Were calling on the government in conjunction with Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBCK) to act on their commitment to house all Grenfell residents in the local area, in long-term accommodation which meets their needs.

Crucially, public authorities must commit to re-housing all residents to ensure their future safety and security  Grenfell was home to council tenants, private renters, homeowners, subtenants, and to many people from other countries including migrants and asylum seekers.

The council has a responsibility to all these people. No one should be left in a worse situation by this tragedy, and the Grenfell community must be allowed to heal together in the local area if they wish to.

A senior government source said: The Met have given an absolute commitment that, if anybody who may be living here illegally rings the special hotline set up for victims, they will take no action.

There will be no attempt to find them, and nothing will be done with the information beyond removing them from the list of potential fatalities.
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A Kensington councillor has warned of a "summer of unrest" after a fire swept through a residential tower block, killing at least 70 people and causing chaos for hundreds of families.

Conservative councillor Eve Allison spoke of the anger and grief in her borough following the Grenfell Tower disaster. While dozens of people await to be re-housed, many victims of the blaze remain unaccounted for.

"Out on the street the community would like to see heads on spikes," she said.

"Its not just Nick Paget-Brown [chief of council in Kensington and Chelsea], its other people that people are calling for, for heads to roll."

She said local people were protesting the salaries of top civil servants, pay packages which Ms Allison said were disconcerting and troubling.

"I think were going to have a summer of unrest, to be honest," she said.

Prime Minister Theresa May announced a 5 million emergency fund on Friday. Former residents will be given 500 in cash and paid a further 4,500 bank payment this week.

Despite warnings of survivors suffering from PTSD, many people have been re-housed in high-rise flats.

In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Show all 51 1 /51 In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police have released images from inside the tower where at least 58 people have died Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by polices what appears to be a stationary bicycle sitting among the ashes In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A still from a video shared by police shows the remnants of a burnt-out bathroom In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Picture showing the lifts on an unknown floor Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency crews outside the front entrance to the tower Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Fire crews inspecting flats in the burnt out tower London Metropolitan Police In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Grenfell Tower is seen in the distance PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A drone flies near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire 'Theresa May Stay Away' message written on the messages of support at Latymer Community Church for those affected by the fire Ray Tang/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire An aerial view of the area surrounding Grenfall tower Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Donated shoes sit in the Westway Sports Centre near to the site of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of support for those affected by the massive fire in Grenfell Tower are displayed on a well near the tower in London AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A local resident stands on her balcony by the gutted Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Messages of condolence are left at a relief centre close to the scene of the fire that broke out at Grenfell Tower, EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A police officer stands by a security cordon outside Latimer Road station Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firemen examine the scorched facade of the Grenfell Tower in London on a huge ladder AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A search dog is led through the rubble of the Grenfell Tower in London as firefighting continue to damp-down the deadly fire AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn comforts a local resident (name not given) at St Clement's Church in west London where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hugs councillor Mushtaq Lasharie as he arrives at St Clement's Church in Latimer Road, where volunteers have provided shelter and support for people affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn meeting staff and volunteers at St Clementis Church in Latimer Road David Mirzoeff/PA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Firefighters with a dog walk around the base of the Grenfell Tower REUTERS/Peter Nicholls In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emotions run high as people attend a candle lit vigil outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Debris hangs from the blackened exterior of Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman speaks to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman holds a missing person posters near the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Sadiq Khan speaking with a resident James Gourley/REX In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Ken Livingstone walks near the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is confronted by Kai Ramos, 7, near Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaks to a woman outside Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Yui Mok/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers distribute aid near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Family and friends of missing Jessica Urbano, 12, wearing photographs of Jessica pinned to their t-shirts gather near Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People gather to observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People light candles as they observe a vigil outside St Clement's Church following the blaze at Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People attend a vigil at Notting Hill Methodist Church near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man distributes food from the back of a van near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A firefighter is cheered near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A T-shirt with a written message from the London Fire Brigade hangs from a fence near The Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A young girl on her way to lay flowers near Grenfell Tower Getty Images In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire The remains of residential tower block Grenfell Tower are seen from Dixon House a nearby tower block Getty In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers prepare supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block which was destroyed in a fire REUTERS/Neil Hall In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Volunteers move a car to make space for a lorry picking up supplies for people affected by the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire People distribute boxes of food near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower bloc REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A woman touches a missing poster for 12-year-old Jessica Urbano on a tribute wall after laying flowers on the side of Latymer Community Church next to the fire-gutted Grenfell Tower AP In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire A man looks at messages written on a wall near the scene of the fire which destroyed the Grenfell Tower block REUTERS/Paul Hackett In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Candles and messages of condolence near where the fire broke out at Grenfell Tower EPA In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry a stretcher towards Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Emergency services at Grenfell Tower Rick Findler/PA Wire In Pictures: Grenfell Tower after the fire Police carry out a body from Grenfell Tower in west London after a fire engulfed the 24-storey building Rick Findler/PA Wire

Councillor Allison explained that refurbishments on the tower, which finished in June last year, cost 8.6 million out of a budget of 10 million, and from a larger pot of 57 million for refurbishment across the borough.

The council decided not to pay an extra 5,000 for fireproof cladding which might have stopped the fire from spreading so quickly, and the cheaper version of the material is banned in the US and Germany.

Nearby the blackened shell of Grenfell Tower are the council-owned buildings of Markland House, Frinstead House and Whitstable House, and Ms Allison said she had so many tips coming in that things there arent tip top either."

I think this is a wake-up call for us and we have to get our house in order," she added.

Council chief Paget-Brown insisted officials were on the ground very soon after the fire broke out and told Radio 4 that he felt terrible about the whole position we find ourselves in.

 Emotional tribute from firemen to Grenfell Tower victims

"All I'm keen to say is there is an effective, coordinated relief effort on the ground and I'm sorry if people haven't seen that," he said.

Ms Allison told Sky News, however, that the scene of the fire was "chaotic" with "no agency on the ground" at first, but she said she was "happy" that residents could now access a "one stop shop" to get help.

She said the disaster had mostly impacted people of colour and who were "classed as deprived".

"Its taken a dreadful inferno with almost 80 people cremated to death for someone like me and for the community to be seen and to be heard," said Ms Allison, who is black.

She added: When everything kicked off there wasnt any agency on the ground and it was quite chaotic and scary and that should not be happening in a first world country.

"Kensington and Chelsea is one of the richest boroughs in Western Europe and it beggars belief  thats what Ive been hearing as I go around  this should not be happening in a fist world country."

A minute's silence was held today for everyone affected by the blaze.

Officials said the death toll is likely to rise over the coming weeks and some people may never be identified due to the intensity of the flames.
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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has cancelled his planned appearance from the balcony of the Ecuadorian embassy in London on legal advice. Scores of Mr Assanges supporters and members of the media arrived at the building in Londons Kensington for the lunchtime speech, which would have marked his fifth year inside the embassy.

It emerged the planned announcement would not go ahead, however, following an agreement for an imminent meeting with British authorities.

A statement released on behalf of the WikiLeaks founder said his legal team remained optimistic for the outcome of the meeting.

Mr Assanges legal team remain optimistic that a satisfactory outcome can be found which respects the British legal process and restores Mr Assanges freedom and dignity, it said. Speaking to the Press Association, Melinda Taylor, a member of Mr Assanges legal team, said: We have been given confirmation that there will be a meeting with the British authorities.

We hope that will be soon. We dont want to prejudice that meeting because we need this impasse to be resolved... There is no legal reason to keep Julian here.

 Assange: A timeline of the investigation

Sweden dropped its seven-year sexual assault investigation into Mr Assange in May, after the countrys authorities declared they couldnt progress further with the case. Mr Assange was accused of raping one woman and molesting a second woman during a visit to Sweden in 2010, which he denies. In 2012 he claimed political asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy while on bail over fears the Swedish investigation would lead to his extradition to the US.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Mr Assange will still be arrested if he leaves the embassy despite the European arrest warrant for him being dropped, as he is still wanted under a separate warrant issued by Westminster Magistrates Court for skipping bail five years ago.
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Witnesses to the terror attack outside a mosque in Finsbury Park have spoken of their shock and fear after a van ploughed into pedestrians  but said they plan to return tonight for Ramadan prayers.

Counter terror police are investigating the incident in north London, in which one man has died and several were injured.

Bahga Al-Maleeh, 41, who has lived in Finsbury Park for three years, said the van struck pedestrians on the street just after midnight outside her home on Seven Sisters Road, where many people were gathered after evening prayers.

I had come back from the mosque and was eating at home. I heard screaming and shouts and went outside. I saw lots of people running and going inside, she told The Independent.

My neighbour was there, calling: Help, help, hes down there. A man was under the van  oh my God. People were screaming as they didnt know if there was another attacker.

Emergency services workers came and tried to pull the man out, said Ms Al-Maleeh. His leg was broken, his arm was broken, his head  he was bleeding from his ear.

There was a man vomiting, another man with a broken leg, someone behind the car, another one in front, around six or seven in total.

Two girls who had seen the van said the way it drove was deliberate. The community in this area are all coming from the mosque at that time, and he meant to get that group. Its so sad.

Police said the white 47-year-old man who was driving the van has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and taken to a hospital as a precaution.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Abdul Rashid, 18, who witnessed the aftermath of the attack, described the suspect as desensitised and said he wasnt distressed, not in the slightest. When people were holding him down he was saying you can kill me, Ive done my job.

He was saying he had come here to kill Muslims, he added. Everyone was shouting but he was completely desensitised. He looked blank. You could tell he didnt care. It was 100 per cent deliberate. He knew exactly what he was doing.

Another eyewitness who gave his name as Abdul told The Independent: People gather on that part of the street during Ramadan to chat and socialise so it was premeditated. He knew what he was doing.

He waited until people had come out then drove at the people on the right then swerved to hit people on the left. Someone was lying under his van shouting Help me.

He tried to run away but we brought him down. He wouldve died because so many people were punching him but the imam came out and said No more punching, lets keep him down until the police come.

As he was being arrested he was laughing and smiling and shouting things about Muslims. I dont want to say what but it was the sort of thing that made people want to punch him.

He described the attacker as a tattooed white man in his late 30s or early 40s.

The attack occurred outside Muslim Welfare House just after midnight on Monday morning (Graphic News)

Saide Ottman, 27, was leaving the mosque at the time of the attack. I heard people screaming and at first I thought it was an accident or a fight had broken out. Then I saw about 10 people holding a man back, he said.

People told me he had clapped after the attack and seemed proud of what hed done, and said yes, I did it.

This is racism. I havent ever experienced racism in London before, this is the first time. Im scared, were all scared, but Im going back to the mosque tonight.

Police officers stand on duty at a cordon near the scene in Finsbury Park (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

Theresa May has condemned the Finsbury Park terror attack as every bit as sickening as other recent terrorist outrages, vowing that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed.

The Metropolitan Police, already stretched by a series of recent tragedies including a high-rise fire in which 79 people are presumed dead and a terror attack near London Bridge that killed seven people, said they are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public. Muslim leaders called for calm.

Ebu Seyitoglu, 44, who lives in a block of flats off Biggerstaff Street, parallel to Seven Sisters Road, where there is a heavy police presence.

He and his neighbours have been told they can leave the building but cannot return inside for several hours if they do so as police investigate.

An imam reportedly saved the van driver involved in the incident from being attacked by members of the public in the immediate aftermath of the crash.

Ibn Omar, a worshipper at the mosque, told Sky News: Ive been coming to this mosque since I can remember. I came back and there was sheer pandemonium. Anarchy. People panicking and screaming.

Some people were injuring the man on the floor and the imam said no dont do that.

After that I went home and Ive been thinking theyve said its a major incident, from what Ive seen, first and foremost I was dazed and confused. I didnt know what was going on.

From what one of my companions have told me is that it was reported as a collision, so police didnt rush as maybe they would have as in a terror incident.

Unfortunately, as you can see in widespread media outlets and even with the police, the way in which they treat incidents which come from ethnic minority individuals in particular, straight away you see its either this can potentially be a terrorist attack or this is a terrorist attack.

But if its a far-right extremist then unfortunately its not treated the same way.

 Met Police: All victims of Finsbury Park Mosque attack are from the Muslim community

One witness who wanted to be identified as Abdulrahman, which is not his real name, said the attacker was pinned to the ground by onlookers after saying: I want to kill Muslims.

He wanted to run away and was saying, I want to kill Muslims. So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, he told Press Association.

People were very upset, people were shouting, people were saying, wheres the police, wheres the ambulance? People were saying, keep him on the ground. People were asking questions, saying why did you do this? People were laying down on the floor.

Abdulrahman claimed the driver said kill me, as he was holding his head on the ground.

He added: I said, tell me why did you try driving to kill innocent people? When he went into the [police] van he made gestures, he was laughing.

Recommended Jeremy Corbyn to attend prayers at Finsbury Park mosque

He deliberately did this. He caused this incident.

Amina Abdi, 50, who goes to a Hornsey mosque but knows lots of people who attend the Finsbury Park mosque, said she and her friends are all shocked by the incident.

Its confused young men, Islamists, that cause people to do this. But yes, we have been victimised in the press too. It has been treated as if our religion is responsible, she told The Independent.

We always feel guilty when walking around, as if people suspect us to be terrorists. But really its young people, spending their days alone.

We expected some retaliation [for London terror attacks] but we didnt know what it would be.

Ive been in London for 30 years, and its a very safe city, so Im really saddened by these recent attacks.
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The Government has been urged to focus its counter-terror Prevent programme on far-right extremism after a van ploughed into worshippers leaving evening prayers at a mosque in Finsbury Park.

One man was killed and eight people were taken to hospital after the suspected terror attack outside Muslim Welfare House shortly after 12:20am on Monday.

Ibn Omar, who has been attending the mosque since he was a child, said the Muslim community was constantly stereotyped and was angered that the crime wasnt being treated the same as the recent terror attacks in London Bridge and Manchester.

The police have got Prevent for Islamic extremism but for far-right extremism which is rapidly growing... if this was on the flip side, there would have been uproar, he told Sky News.

Fortunately the event wasn't right outside the mosque, its very sad the way the Government reports these crimes as the way the Government treats these crimes is different to Muslims that commit crimes or ethnic minorities.

What Im calling for and what I expect the general public to be calling for is justice, equality, fairness, as to how these crimes are treated - and the rise in Islamophobia and far-right extremism.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Prevent is one of the four elements that make up CONTEST, the Governments counter-terrorism strategy that aims to stop people becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism.

A report released in February found the threat from far-right terrorists was being neglected by European governments and law enforcement, and revealed one in three "lone actors" had been motivated by far-right ideologies.

Dr Chris Allen resigned from Prevent in 2014 over concerns how the programme was being run. He said he doesn't believe the Government has worked hard enough to tackle Islamophobia.

"Weve seen the far right in the UK become much more aggressive, much more confrontational, particularly focusing their aggression towards Muslim communities, targeting things like the building of new mosques," he told BBC World at One.

Recommended Everything we know so far about the Finsbury Park mosque attack

"Islamophobia is not the same as extremism. Islamophobia is more akin to racism or homophobia or disableism. And the other thing is Islamophobia is not only causal of extremism as well and from research we know that hate crime is largely perpetrated by ordinary people.

"The everyday experience of Islamophobia for Muslims is at street level, physical or verbal abuse or violence and actually that is perpetrated by ordinary people, not necessarily extremists."

The van driver, described by eyewitnesses as a large white man, was detained by members of the public after the mosques imam stepped in to urge angry members of the public to wait for the authorities.

Police said they had arrested a 48-year-old man in relation to the incident but did not release any further details.

Muslim Welfare Houses chief executive Toufik Kacimi said the incident should be treated as a hate crime.

We have a witness saying the driver of the van said: I did my bit, he said.

He hit almost a wall, at the end of the road, because it was a dead end road, so people grabbed him outside and started hitting him, but our imam outside went and saved him, he saved his life basically.
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Muslim leaders have spoken out against the media for fuelling Islamophobia, following a deadly attack on a north London mosque.

In the hours after a van was driven into worshippers as they finished late night prayers, local leaders and members of the Muslim community warned about rising anti-Muslim sentiment.

Hatred against Muslims is unacceptable as well, Miqdaad Versi, assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, told Sky News.

Recommended May says Finsbury Park mosque attack justifies her internet crackdown

We have national newspapers spreading hate and talking about how less Islam is the answer to terrorism that we face right now.

These people are spreading hate against Muslims and people might be responding to that hate, talking about less Islam, and [something like this attack] may be the result."

He added: We cannot have this happening. We have had a number of incidents against Muslim communities. Hate crime has gone up considerably according to the Metropolitan Police, according to the Mayor of London, according to many third party sources as well.

Mr Versi did not name any particular publications.

Social media users were quick to tweet examples of recent headlines in national newspapers that appeared to portray Muslims in a negative light.

Talking on the Daily Sunday Politics, Mr Versi praised the Government for taking the attack seriously.

I think that we have to recognise, however, that many Muslim communities have been talking about the rise in hate crimes against Muslims for many, many years, and have been worried about that, and unfortunately there has not been the action that weve expected.

He was joined in his calls by other Muslim leaders, including the chairman of the Finsbury Park mosque, Mohammed Kozbar.

An attack on one faith is an attack on all faiths and communities, he said, as he stood beside Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn.

He said that on the day of the attack local Muslims in Islington had been celebrating the legacy of Jo Cox, the Yorkshire MP who was murdered by an extremist last year, as part of national Great Get Together events.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

The Muslim leaders comments come as Prime Minister Theresa May condemned the attack on the mosque as evil and sickening. She also visited the scene to speak with emergency services.

There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years  and that means extremism of any kind, including Islamophobia, she said.

She vowed, once again, to stamp down on growing extremism online and said she would create a new Commission for Countering Terrorism.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

The attack was also condemned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Labour leader Corbyn, the Archbishop of Canterbury and mainstream figures such as Piers Morgan and J K Rowling.

Dr Chris Allen, a lecturer at the University of Birmingham and who quit the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Islamophobia in 2014, told Radio 4 that he quit due to the Government's constant focus on extremism.

Yes we do have to tackle extremism and radicalisation but we cant actually see that this is one and the same, he said.

We need to be talking about and tackling homophobia in the same way that weve tackled other forms of discriminatory phenomena in this country over the last 20, 30, 40 years.

The suspect in the latest attack was taken to hospital and will undergo a mental health assessment, according to police.

It follows three other terrorist attacks in Manchester, London Bridge and Westminster, carried out by radical Islamic extremists, which killed a total of 34 people and injuring more than 200 in the last three months.

Police arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder in the early hours of Monday morning.
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European officials are expecting little real progress in Brussels today as official Brexit negotiations kick off, The Independent understands.

Separate sources said talks were little more than a marker, with one describing todays meeting between Brexit Secretary David Davis and the EUs chief negotiator Michel Barnier as window dressing.

Even progress on establishing working groups to deal with specific issues, could be limited due to questions over the UKs position.

It comes as Theresa Mays cabinet is torn over how to approach negotiations with Chancellor Philip Hammond and others pushing for a softer approach, while Brexiteers threaten to resign if the Prime Minister abandons her tough stance.

At the end of the week, Ms May will speak to other leaders at European Council summit and while Brexit is not on the main agenda, some officials expect the Prime Minister to signal a more nuanced stance.

Mr Davis and Mr Barnier and their officials will have a working lunch and hold a press conference, where there are likely to be statements of agreement on broad principle, but officials suggested progress is stymied by the British Governments position and a lack of clarity over its intentions.

One source said: The day will be a lot of window dressing, hand shaking and spoken words  but its not the day for real progress.

How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Show all 8 1 /8 How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Weetabix Chief executive of Weetabix Giles Turrell has warned that the price of one of the nations favourite breakfast are likely to go up this year by low-single digits in percentage terms. Reuters How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Nescafe The cost of a 100g jar of Nescafe Original at Sainsburys has gone up 40p from 2.75 to 3.15  a 14 per cent risesince the Brexit vote. PA How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Freddo When contacted by The Independent this month, a Mondelez spokesperson declined to discuss specific brands but confirmed that there would be "selective" price increases across its range despite the American multi-national confectionery giant reporting profits of $548m (450m) in its last three-month financial period. Mondelez, which bought Cadbury in 2010, said rising commodity costs combined with the slump in the value of the pound had made its products more expensive to make. Cadbury How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Mr Kipling cakes Premier Foods, the maker of Mr Kipling and Bisto gravy, said that it was considering price rises on a case-by-case basis Reuters How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Walkers Crisps Walkers, owned by US giant PepsiCo, said "the weakened value of the pound" is affecting the import cost of some of its materials. A Walkers spokesman told the Press Association that a 32g standard bag was set to increase from 50p to 55p, and the larger grab bag from 75p to 80p. Getty How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Marmite Tesco removed Marmite and other Unilever household brand from its website last October, after the manufacturer tried to raise its prices by about 10 per cent owing to sterlings slump. Tesco and Unilever resolved their argument, but the price of Marmite has increased in UK supermarkets with the grocer reporting a 250g jar of Marmite will now cost Morrisons customers 2.64 - an increase of 12.5 per cent. Rex How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Toblerone Toblerone came under fire in November after it increased the space between the distinctive triangles of its bars. Mondelez International, the company which makes the product, said the change was made due to price rises in recent months. Pixabay How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Maltesers Maltesers, billed as the lighter way to enjoy chocolate, have also shrunk in size. Mars, which owns the brand, has reduced its pouch weight by 15 per cent. Mars said rising costs mean it had to make the unenviable decision between increasing its prices or reducing the weight of its Malteser packs. iStockphoto

One session will discuss the establishment of working groups to get stuck into how an agreement may be formed on key issues.

But another source suggested even this would be easier said than done.

On Sunday Mr Hammond dodged a question about Ms May's future, refusing to say how long he thinks she will remain in post following the botched election campaign and anger around her handling of the Grenfell fire.

In an interview, Mr Hammond made some signals towards a softer Brexit, hinting at a longer transition period to any new status after business groups demanded the UK stay in the customs union.

Moving away from Ms Mays no deal is better than a bad deal rhetoric, he said the failure of talks would be very, very bad for Britain.

Scottish Tory Leader Ruth Davidson has also called for a more economically minded Brexit deal in the wake of the election.

 Theresa May should admit result is a rejection of hard Brexit, says EU negotiator

But two Sunday newspapers in the UK reported pressure on Ms May to turn her administration around or face a leadership challenge, with Brexiteer cabinet ministers reportedly threatening to quit if she dares soften her Brexit stance.

Cabinet minister Michael Gove, who has recently returned to the Cabinet as Environment Secretary, told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that he is confident Ms May will be the Prime Minister to deliver Brexit and that it should remain the kind of Brexit she made part of her election campaign.

I think that there's support across the Conservative Party for Theresa, and also support for the position that she outlined before, during and after the election, he said.

Asked if he expects Ms May to stay in post, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson told the programme: My strong feeling is that the last thing the electorate wants is more elections or more political shenanigans of one kind or another.

There's a huge task to get on with with Brexit.
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Britain caved in to the EU on the opening day of the Brexit talks, when it agreed to settle its divorce before trying to negotiate a future trade deal.

In a major defeat, Brexit Secretary David Davis was forced to drop his central demand for the two strands of the negotiations to be staged in parallel, within hours of arriving in Brussels.

Last month, Mr Davis vowed to wage the row of the summer to secure immediate talks on a free trade agreement  predicting an early collapse if the EU refused to give way.

But both sides have now agreed to set up working groups on EU citizens rights, the size of Britains divorce bill and borders  but not, crucially, future trade.

At a press conference, Mr Davis was forced to concede that the talks would only move on to trade when the EU decided enough progress had been made on its three priorities. Asked if the weakness of your negotiating position had been exposed, Mr Davis put on a brave face, claiming: Its not when it starts but how it finishes that matters.

Ahead of the opening day, the UK had also promised to unveil a generous offer to end the row over the future rights of three million EU citizens in the UK and 1.2 million British ex-pats in the EU.

However, Mr Davis said the offer would not be published until next Monday, after Theresa May briefs EU leaders on her intentions at a summit at the end of this week. Further rows are expected over the cut-off date for granting rights and whether EU citizens can bring in relatives in perpetuity, including from third countries.

Significantly, Mr Davis said he would tell Labour and other parties about the Governments plans in advance  reflecting its weak position, with no Commons majority.

Speaking in Brussels, Michel Barnier, the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, made clear where the power lay in the talks when he said Britain had bowed to the EUs demands for two phases.

In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Show all 12 1 /12 In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier listens at the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty Images In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, delivers his speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg EPA In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt, President of the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcomming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Michel Barnier, European Chief Negotiator for Brexit reacts during a meeting at the European Parliament in Strasbourg EPA In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Member of the European Parliament and former leader of the anti-EU UK Independence Party (UKIP) Nigel Farage wears socks with Union Jack flag at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty Images In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Nigel Farage, United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) member and MEP, addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcoming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier gestures during speeches at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions The President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker (L) speaks with European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt, President of the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcomming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier delivers a speech during a plenary session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions The European Parliament in Strasbourg, eastern France Getty Images

We have to commit ourselves now mutually to guarantee rights to citizens on either side of the Channel so they can continue their lives as in the past, Mr Barnier said.

We have to clear the accounts and we have to honour our mutual financial commitments. We also have to find solutions to maintaining all the commitments of the Good Friday Agreement. It is by lifting uncertainties around these issues that we will lay the foundation and create the climate of trust which will enable us to build a new partnership.

Mr Barnier was asked if  given the political uncertainty at Westminster  he expected Mr Davis to remain in his post for the duration of the negotiations. I am working with the British Government and its official representative David Davis. Thats what I can say, from my part, he replied.

And, turning Ms Mays no deal is better than a bad deal threat against her, Mr Barnier added: A fair deal is possible and far better than no deal. That is what I said to David today.

Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat leader, claimed Mr Davis had been humiliated, saying: One day in, he has capitulated. The man is a joker. Despite the governments posturing, the EU was clear today it has not made a single concession to David Davis.

But the Brexit Secretary insisted there was much common ground and that the timetable for withdrawal was ambitious, but eminently achievable.
A small piece of Bonne Terres history is now on display at Heritage Hall after being hidden away in the Shepard House for many years.

Anyone who visits Heritage Hall right now can see a series of watercolor paintings adorning the walls along the staircase. Paul Williams said they brought the artwork from the Shepard House. They are the works of an artist who used to live and paint in Bonne Terre. Her name was Faith Bunch.

She was a renowned artist in this area and she did a whole bunch of things, said Williams. One of them was (this) set of original watercolors of a lot of the historic buildings in Bonne Terre.

Williams explained that when they restored the Shepard House back in the 1980s they went around asking folks for donations and antiques.

Mrs. Bunch donated a set of paintings and they have been sort of wasted over there because not many people see them, said Williams. So my wife, Lila, and I decided to move them over here so everyone can enjoy them.

Bunch died in 1999. Williams said she was a terrific artist and the first female mayor of Bonne Terre. She was an important part of the town and did a lot for the city back then, he added.

Her son, Bill Bunch, still lives here in town and he hasnt seen them yet, said Williams. When we held our chamber meeting recently a lot of the older people who came, who remembered Faith, were excited to see the paintings. There is a whole new generation of people who dont know who she is and we hope to renew her name with her artwork.

Williams said they bought some frames, carefully framed the works and securely attached them to the wall.

Bunch's son and Williams eventually looked at the paintings together and recalled the buildings. Some are no longer standing. They shared stories of a few places from their younger years.

I was happy to hear her artwork would be on display and was concerned at first about their safety, said Bill. I see they are secured quite well and they wont walk away. I really like how they are along the stairs. She went above and beyond for her family and was still able to find time to do things like this.

Bill recalled that while growing up his mom always had an easel or a drawing board set up, or they would go on-site to do pastel drawings.

Usually when she worked in the wild, like out at the lake or something, shed do pastels or charcoal drawings, said Bill. Watercolors and oil paints she would do at home from photographs or from her memory. One of the first things I can remember is a mural she painted on the wall above our fireplace. It was a matador and bull  I barely remember that, but I have seen pictures of it, too.

Bill said his mom was always painting something, whether it was a wall in the house or a piece of artwork.

I think she inherited this talent from my grandfather, Edward Zimmerman, who was probably one of the most noted Indian artifact collectors in this area, said Bill. He was also an artist. Ive got two of his paintings and he didnt do many paintings because he spent most of his time on other interests.

"He was a very good artist and did drawings of his arrowheads and he was very meticulous.

Bill said his mom went through a phase where she painted a bunch of watercolors, and then she did a bunch of ceramic bird houses and birds.

They are scattered to the wind. We have no idea where all these things are. She gave most of her works away, said Bill. When her health was starting to fail she started doing a lot of painting at the house. She decided to do a series of these paintings of the historic buildings in Bonne Terre and there are far more than what you see here.

Bill recalled one not on display at Heritage Hall as being the little "hose house" which has recently been a project of some local residents and fire department members.

I dont know what has happened to those, but there are others, too, said Bill. This is a good representation of her work. She also did portraits, and anybody who asked she would do a portrait for them. I have had people come up to me all the time and tell me they have one of my moms paintings.

Bill said ever so often one of his moms pieces of art will come back to him or his brother.

When they ask if I would like to have it, I always say 'yes' because when my mom passed away she had hardly anything left, said Bill. She had given all her works away.

In addition to being an artist, Faith worked all her adult life. She started working at the theater in Bonne Terre, then with the Red Cross during World War II, and then married Bills dad. After the war they came back to the area and settled down and raised three boys.

When I was about 6 years old she stopped being a stay-at-home mom and went to work at Phillips Grocery Store here in Bonne Terre, said Bill. Then later on she worked at the county collectors office and she ran for that office in, I believe, 1964 or 1966.

Bill said she went to work at the Division of Family Services shortly after, which at the time they called the welfare office, and she worked there for about four years. She then worked at Pepsi-Cola for 20-plus years when Pepsi had the plant in Flat River. She was the head secretary and retired from there.

Faith was the first female mayor in Bonne Terre, elected in 1972. She later sat on the city council, having served as mayor for six years. Bill said she was always involved in politics.

She designed the fountain in the square across from the post office and would always be willing to dedicate her time to artwork or any project anyone wanted to do, recalled her son.

Anyone interested in seeing Faith Bunchs artwork on display can visit Heritage Hall during normal business hours.
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Germany's Foreign Minister has signalled that the UK may be able to secure a soft Brexit that keeps the UK in the single market after it has officially left the European Union.

Sigmar Gabriel also indicated a deal could be done on the jurisdiction of the European Court, allowing Theresa May to fulfil her pledge to end its jurisdiction while also meeting the EUs needs.

The German Foreign Minister made the comments as withdrawal negotiations begin in Brussels between Brexit Secretary David Davis and the EUs chief negotiator Michel Barnier.

Recommended These signs from Europe can tell us if Brexit will crash the economy

Like French President Emmanuel Macron, Mr Gabriel said there is an open door to the British if they wish to change their mind about Brexit.

It comes as Ms Mays cabinet threatened to split over whether to adopt a softer jobs-first Brexit approach, or pursue the Prime Ministers tough immigration-centred strategy that failed to win the Conservatives a Commons majority.

Mr Gabriel told Sunday's Welt am Sonntag newspaper in Germany that maybe there is now a chance to achieve a so-called 'soft Brexit.'

But the social democrat politician said staying in the single market would require the UK to at least accept EU workers' freedom of movement.

He also raised the prospect of an agreement on the ECJs jurisdiction, which Ms May has pledged to end as part of the Brexit negotiations.

How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Show all 8 1 /8 How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Weetabix Chief executive of Weetabix Giles Turrell has warned that the price of one of the nations favourite breakfast are likely to go up this year by low-single digits in percentage terms. Reuters How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Nescafe The cost of a 100g jar of Nescafe Original at Sainsburys has gone up 40p from 2.75 to 3.15  a 14 per cent risesince the Brexit vote. PA How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Freddo When contacted by The Independent this month, a Mondelez spokesperson declined to discuss specific brands but confirmed that there would be "selective" price increases across its range despite the American multi-national confectionery giant reporting profits of $548m (450m) in its last three-month financial period. Mondelez, which bought Cadbury in 2010, said rising commodity costs combined with the slump in the value of the pound had made its products more expensive to make. Cadbury How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Mr Kipling cakes Premier Foods, the maker of Mr Kipling and Bisto gravy, said that it was considering price rises on a case-by-case basis Reuters How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Walkers Crisps Walkers, owned by US giant PepsiCo, said "the weakened value of the pound" is affecting the import cost of some of its materials. A Walkers spokesman told the Press Association that a 32g standard bag was set to increase from 50p to 55p, and the larger grab bag from 75p to 80p. Getty How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Marmite Tesco removed Marmite and other Unilever household brand from its website last October, after the manufacturer tried to raise its prices by about 10 per cent owing to sterlings slump. Tesco and Unilever resolved their argument, but the price of Marmite has increased in UK supermarkets with the grocer reporting a 250g jar of Marmite will now cost Morrisons customers 2.64 - an increase of 12.5 per cent. Rex How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Toblerone Toblerone came under fire in November after it increased the space between the distinctive triangles of its bars. Mondelez International, the company which makes the product, said the change was made due to price rises in recent months. Pixabay How Brexit affected Britain's favourite foods from Weetabix to Marmite Maltesers Maltesers, billed as the lighter way to enjoy chocolate, have also shrunk in size. Mars, which owns the brand, has reduced its pouch weight by 15 per cent. Mars said rising costs mean it had to make the unenviable decision between increasing its prices or reducing the weight of its Malteser packs. iStockphoto

The courts role has been viewed from Europe as one of the trickiest aspects of negotiations, with Brussels wanting it to remain post-Brexit with an oversight role of any agreement, as the guarantor of EU citizens rights and with a part to play in future trade dispute resolution.

Mr Gabriel suggested there could instead be a joint court that is staffed by Europeans and Britons which in principle follows the ECJ's rulings.

He went on to say it would be best if Britain did not leave the EU at all, and while he admitted it did not seem likely at the moment, he added: But we want to keep the door open for the British.

Mr Gabriel strongly criticized the UKs Conservatives, saying that they played with the emotions of citizens in Britain, told fake news about Europe and left people unclear about what consequences this would all have.

Referring to the difficult, even impossible situation created by the indecisive election, he added: Here, those who created such chaos would have long since gone.

He said: We will negotiate fairly, and fair means that we want to keep the British as close as possible to the EU  but never at the price that we divide the remaining 27 EU states.

It comes after Chancellor Philip Hammond made some signals towards a softer Brexit, hinting at a longer transition period to any new status after business groups demanded the UK stay in the customs union.

 Theresa May says Brexit timetable still on track

Moving away from Ms Mays no deal is better than a bad deal rhetoric, Mr Hammond said the failure of talks would be very, very bad for Britain.

Scottish Tory Leader Ruth Davidson has also called for a more economically minded Brexit deal in the wake of the election.

But two Sunday newspapers in the UK reported pressure on Ms May to turn her administration around or face a leadership challenge, with Brexiteer cabinet ministers reportedly threatening to quit if she dares soften her Brexit stance.
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Theresa Mays post-Brexit plan to slash immigration will have a devastating double whammy impact on the British economy, according to the most detailed study of EU nationals to date.

The new report seen by The Independent reveals how the Prime Ministers stubborn refusal to dump her tens of thousands cap on net migration would not only cut off a vital supply of labour, but deepen existing shortages in key sectors.

The impartial consultancy behind the study is urging the Government to base future immigration policy on economic need instead of an arbitrary numerical target like that maintained by Ms May.

It comes amid deep cabinet divisions over how to approach immigration during Brexit talks, with the Governments position still in question despite the start of negotiations on Monday.

 Theresa May says Brexit timetable still on track

Chancellor Philip Hammond is using his new clout to push the Prime Minister to adopt an economically minded jobs first approach, but Brexiteer ministers are demanding she maintain her tough stance on immigration.

The Independent launched its Drop the Target campaign with Open Britain, earlier this year in a bid to push the Government to dump the discredited tens of thousands cap.

But the research from independent consultancy RepGraph brings new urgency to the matter, with Brexit Secretary David Davis about to start negotiating on the issue with the European Union.

RepGraph concluded that a blanket approach to reducing migration focusing on low-skilled workers could have a doubly negative impact by both withdrawing a critical labour supply and compounding existing skills shortages.

Laying waste to arguments for a system that only allows highly qualified individuals in, the report instead underlines the desperate need the UK economy has for low-skilled employees.

Low-skilled migrants are filling gaps in the workforce where the need is greatest, the report concludes.

It sets out that industries employing the largest number and proportion of low-skilled EU workers are those already suffering the most acute labour shortages, while there are far fewer EU citizens taking high-skilled jobs in sectors that tend to have low labour shortages.

In particular, the study concluded that the Governments target to cut annual net migration to under 100,000 would disproportionately hit sectors with existing shortages  including accommodation and food, administration and support, wholesale, retail and vehicle repair, manufacturing and construction.

In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Show all 12 1 /12 In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier listens at the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty Images In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, delivers his speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg EPA In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt, President of the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcomming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Michel Barnier, European Chief Negotiator for Brexit reacts during a meeting at the European Parliament in Strasbourg EPA In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Member of the European Parliament and former leader of the anti-EU UK Independence Party (UKIP) Nigel Farage wears socks with Union Jack flag at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty Images In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Nigel Farage, United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP) member and MEP, addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcoming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier gestures during speeches at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions The President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker (L) speaks with European commission member in charge of Brexit negotiations with Britain, French Michel Barnier at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions European Union's chief Brexit negotiator Guy Verhofstadt, President of the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), addresses the European Parliament during a debate on Brexit priorities and the upcomming talks on the UK's withdrawal from the EU Reuters In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier delivers a speech during a plenary session at the European Parliament in Strasbourg Getty In pictures: European parliament Brexit discussions The European Parliament in Strasbourg, eastern France Getty Images

RepGraph, which analysed Office for National Statistics data, found that the 2.1 million EU citizens make up a small proportion of the UK workforce, some 7 per cent, but only a fifth are in highly skilled jobs  with most employed in London and the South-east, and fewest in the North-east and Wales.

Of the 10 sectors with the most acute shortages, seven have above average EU migrant employment  at around 16 per cent on average, compared with 7 per cent in the economy as a whole.

The report said: This demonstrates the range of skills EU nationals bring to the UK economy.

EU immigrants are most often employed in the lowest skills jobs, facing the greatest labour shortages.

EU workers are almost four times as likely to be found in a low-skilled job in industry with acute shortages than in a high-skilled post without such problems.

In wholesale, retail and vehicle repair, the proportion of EU workers in the lowest skilled posts is five times higher than in the high-skilled positions. In transport and storage, it is more than eight times higher and in manufacturing almost seven times greater.

Education, health and social work, science and communications have the most EU nationals employed at the highest skill levels.

The study concluded: Any decrease in EU immigrants is therefore more likely to affect the ability to employ people in jobs requiring the lowest level of skill and less likely to affect the jobs requiring the highest level of skill, and could exacerbate skills shortages where they are already most acutely felt.

Duel citizenship is an attractive prospect post Brexit (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The report, commissioned by the Business With Europe group, was seized on by the campaigning organisation Open Britain, which said it showed hitting the Governments arbitrary target would have a crippling impact on the economy.

Former shadow Business Secretary Chuka Umunna, a leading supporter of Open Britain, said: Its a depressing fact that this needs saying in 21st century Britain, but this report proves that EU nationals make an enormous contribution to our economy and our country.

EU workers are plugging vital gaps in the sectors of our economy that need them the most.

He added: Theresa Mays ill-advised recommitment to reducing net migration to the tens of thousands will exacerbate already existing skills shortages and British businesses and our whole economy will pay the price.

During the election, Ms May and her ministers have dodged media questions about their policy on EU migration after Brexit. While pledging to control immigration, they have promised a flexible approach after fierce lobbying by business leaders, who are deeply worried about skill shortages.

David Davis, the Brexit Secretary, is likely to have been given similar findings to the RepGraph study by his civil servants. He has signalled that immigration levels would rise from time to time depending on economic need.

Several cabinet ministers have acknowledged the vital role played by migrants in the areas for which they have responsibility, begging the question of how the tens of thousands target would be met. Latest figures show it was 248,000 in 2016, a drop of 84,000 on the previous year.

The Tory manifesto still stuck to the tens of thousands target promising to double to 2,000 a year, the levy on companies employing migrant workers, with the revenue spent on higher level skills training for UK workers.

But after Ms May failed to win a majority the dynamic of her Government has fundamentally changed  with her previous immigration-focussed approach to Brexit effectively rejected by voters.

As the price of his support for her premiership, it has been reported that Mr Hammond demanded she change tack and adopt an approach that puts preserving growth first. He is also supported by the newly empower Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson.

But the issue is set to be a Tory battleground, with reports that Brexit-backing ministers including International Trade Secretary Liam Fox will quit if Ms May shifts her approach.
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Downing Street has rejected Jeremy Corbyns call to seize private rental properties in order to give victims of the Grenfell fire a place to stay.

A spokeswoman indicated the Prime Minister is not considering Mr Corbyns plan, raised by the Labour leader as his response to the Grenfell tragedy was favourably compared with Theresa Mays.

The No 10 official said: Look, we dont support proposals to seize private property.

Our focus is on rehousing people as quickly as possible, in the borough and the neighbouring borough, and that still stands.

Pressed again she said: We do not support the proposals to seize private property.

The Labour leader made his call in the aftermath of last weeks devastating blaze, which has so far claimed the lives of 79 people.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr Corbyn said: The ward where this fire took place is, I think, the poorest ward in the whole country and properties must be found  requisitioned if necessary  to make sure those residents do get rehoused locally.

Grenfell tower fire Show all 42 1 /42 Grenfell tower fire Grenfell tower fire Local residents watch as Grenfell Tower is engulfed by fire Getty Images Grenfell tower fire London Fire Brigade said there has been a number of fatalities from the blaze Rex Features Grenfell tower fire The fire was first reported in the early hours of Wednesday and continued into the morning Rex Features Grenfell tower fire A local resident sees the fire over the rooftops @Ebajgora Grenfell tower fire A firefighter reacts at the scene of the blaze Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Residents watch as the blaze continues Getty Images Grenfell tower fire More than 200 firefighters have been fighting the blaze PA Grenfell tower fire London Mayor Sadiq Khan has declared the fire a major incident Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Police and fire services attempted to evacuate the concrete block of flats Getty Images Grenfell tower fire A woman runs to assist paramedics working at the fire at the Grenfell Tower Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Smoke rises from the building after a huge fire engulfed the 24 story Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road, West London in the early hours of Wednesday morning Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Fire fighters tackle the 24-storey building in West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Ambulances are stationed nearby Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Paramedics arrive with oxygen Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Emergency services believe it will take some time to establish the cause of the fire Grenfell tower fire Tens of people have been taken to five different hospitals across London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire A man comforts a boy after the tower block was severely damaged Reuters Grenfell tower fire Firefighters stand amid debris in a childrens playground nearby Reuters Grenfell tower fire Firefighters are stationed at the building Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Smoke engulfs Grenfell tower Rex Features Grenfell tower fire Lots of people donating water, food and clothing to St Clement's church for the residents of Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road Samuel Osborne Grenfell tower fire A man speaks to a fire fighter after a huge fire engulfed the 24 story Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire According to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), 40 fire engines and 200 firefighters are working to put out the blaze. Residents in the tower were evacuated and a number of people were treated for a range of injuries EPA Grenfell tower fire A resident of Grenfell Tower is trapped as smoke billows from the window after a fire engulfed the building Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Members of the emergency services work at the scene of a huge blaze which engulfed Grenfell Tower, a residential tower block in Latimer Road Getty Images Grenfell tower fire According to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), 40 fire engines and 200 firefighters are working to put out the blaze EPA Grenfell tower fire Fire fighters tackle the building after a huge fire engulfed the 24 story Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire The burnt facade of Grenfell Tower, the night after the fire in Latimer Road, West London REUTERS/Neil Hall Grenfell tower fire Local residents gather at a community centre near Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road REUTERS/Toby Melville Grenfell tower fire A resident in a nearby building watches smoke rise from Grenfell Tower in Latimer Road, West London AP Grenfell tower fire Police and rescue services operate near the fire at Grenfell Tower, a 24-storey apartment block in Latimer Road EPA Grenfell tower fire A man stands amid debris on the A40 after a serious fire in a tower block at Latimer Road in West London REUTERS/Toby Melville Grenfell tower fire A view of the empty A40 highway after it was closed in both directions, due to the proximity of the fire at Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road EPA Grenfell tower fire Smoke rises from the building after a huge fire engulfed the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Bodies are removed from the scene after a fire engulfed the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in west London Rick Findler/PA Wire Grenfell tower fire Bodies are removed from the scene after a fire engulfed the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in west London Rick Findler/PA Wire Grenfell tower fire Provisions on tables at the Westway Sports Centre close to the scene after a fire engulfed the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in west London Jack Hardy/PA Grenfell tower fire Beds are laid out in the Westway Sports Centre close to the scene after a fire engulfed the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in west London Jack Hardy/PA Wire Grenfell tower fire A pile of donated clothes, sleeping bags and water lie next to a police cordon near the burning the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Signs asking for donations are seen outside the Notting Hill methodist Chruch Getty Images Grenfell tower fire Smoke rises from the building after a huge fire engulfed the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty Images Grenfell tower fire A man is rescued by fire fighters after a huge fire engulfed the 24 storey residential Grenfell Tower block in Latimer Road, West London Getty

The Labour leader, whose poll ratings have soared since the election, said it was not acceptable that there are luxury flats left empty while homeless people look for somewhere to live.

It came after he was pictured embracing a woman who was searching for a missing girl in the wake of the fire. By contrast, Ms May was severely criticised for failing to meet affected residents on a trip to the site.

The Prime Minister has pledged to find homes for those affected by the tragedy within three weeks.

Downing Street also said on Monday that a judge would be appointed to lead the public inquiry into the tragedy very soon.

The Prime Minister is very aware that people want answers promptly and we want to get this going promptly, said the spokeswoman.
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Labour has taken a three-point lead over the Tories in a new poll conducted a week after the shock election result saw Theresa May's authority challenged.

Research by Survation for Good Morning Britain (GMB) gave Jeremy Corbyns party a three-point lead over the Conservatives, as 44 per cent of respondents backed Labour compared with 41 per cent for the Tories.

This is a dramatic turnout for the party after a similar Survation poll conducted over 5-6 May, which gave the Conservatives a 17 point lead over Labour.

According to the latest survey, some 45 per cent of people believe Ms May should resign as Prime Minister compared with 48 per cent who believe she should remain.

Ms May has had a disastrous week since the election ended in a hung parliament and tension over a proposed electoral pact with Northern Irelands DUP.

This was compounded by her inhumane response to a devastating fire at a tower block in west London were at least 58 people are presumed dead.

She was criticised for only speaking to the emergency services during her visit to the scene on Thursday morning while, by contrast, Mr Corbyn was seen talking to the victims and promising that the truth will come out.

Ms May was heavily criticised for her "cold and robotic" performance on the campaign trail during the election and appears to be floundering following the departure of her two close advisers, Nick Timothy and Fiona Hill.

The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address Show all 6 1 /6 The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address Brexit The big one. Theresa May has spoken publicly three times since declaring her intent to stand in the Tory Leadership race, and each time she has said, Brexit means Brexit. It sounds resolute, but it is helpful to her that Brexit is a made up word with no real meaning. She has said there will be no second referendum and no re-entry in to the EU via the back door. But she, like the Leave campaign of which she was not a member, has pointedly not said with any precision what she thinks Brexit means Reuters The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address General election This is very much one to keep off the to do list. She said last week there would be no general election at this time of great instability. But there have already been calls for one from opposition parties. The Fixed Term Parliaments Act of 2010 makes it far more difficult to call a snap general election, a difficulty she will be in no rush to overcome. In the event of a victory for Leadsom, who was not popular with her own parliamentary colleagues, an election might have been required, but May has the overwhelming backing of the parliamentary party Getty The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address HS2 Macbeth has been quoted far too much in recent weeks, but it will be up to May to decide whether, with regard to the new high speed train link between London, Birmingham, the East Midlands and the north, returning were as tedious as go oer. Billions have already been spent. But the 55bn it will cost, at a bare minimum, must now be considered against the grim reality of significantly diminished public finances in the short to medium term at least. It is not scheduled to be completed until 2033, by which point it is not completely unreasonable to imagine a massive, driverless car-led transport revolution having rendered it redundant EPA The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address Heathrow expansion Or indeed Gatwick expansion. Or Boris Island, though that option is seems as finished as the man himself. The decision on where to expand aviation capacity in the south east has been delayed to the point of becoming a national embarrassment. A final decision was due in autumn. Whatever is decided, there will be vast opprobrium PA The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address Trident renewal David Cameron indicated two days ago that there will be a Commons vote on renewing Britains nuclear deterrent on July 18th, by which point we now know, Ms May will be Prime Minister. The Labour Party is, to put it mildly, divided on the issue. This will be an early opportunity to maximise their embarrassment, and return to Tory business as usual EPA The 6 most important issues Theresa May needs to address Scottish Independence Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP are in no doubt that the Brexit vote provides the opportunity for a second independence referendum, in which they can emerge victorious. The Scottish Parliament at Holyrood has the authority to call a second referendum, but Ms May and the British Parliament are by no means automatically compelled to accept the result. She could argue it was settled in 2014 AFP/Getty

The pair have been blamed for the failure of the partys manifesto, which put off core voters with a pledged reforms meaning the elderly would be able to put off paying for their care until after their death  but crucially failed to place a cap on costs.

With Brexit negotiations due to begin today, the majority (52 per cent) believe Ms May is the party leader most trusted to negotiate the best deal compared with 39 per cent who back Mr Corbyn.

More than half of voters (51 per cent) said they would now vote to remain in the EU, while 49 per cent would vote to leave the bloc, the poll found.

Voters said they would prefer a "soft" Brexit (55 per cent) compared to a "hard" Brexit (35 per cent), and more than half (57 per cent) were opposed to a second referendum at the end of the negotiations.

The poll also found that 60 per cent would prefer a coalition to negotiate a Brexit deal, compared to 35 per cent who favoured the current Conservative-led government to lead talks.

Additional reporting by PA
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Theresa May has pledged that the details of any deal for the Democratic Unionist Party to prop her up in power will be made public, as talks go down to the wire.

No agreement has been finalised to guarantee the Conservatives a Commons majority  nine days after No 10 was forced, embarrassingly, to retract a claim that it had already been reached.

The continuing delay raises the prospect that the Queens Speech will go ahead on Wednesday without a deal with the DUP in place.

Recommended Gerry Adams tells Theresa May DUP deal breaks Good Friday agreement

It is believed to have been caused by the DUPs big financial demands, for both higher public spending in Northern Ireland and lucrative tax breaks.

At the weekend, John McDonnell, Labours shadow Chancellor, wrote to the Treasury over reports that the DUP is seeking an exemption from air passenger duty levied at airports in Northern Ireland.

If granted, that demand would cost at least 90m a year, Mr McDonnell said - enough to pay for 2,000 firefighters.

Now the Prime Minister has bowed to the pressure to be fully open about the agreement  while apparently conceding it may yet not happen.

Following talks in Downing Street with new Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, Ms May insisted any deal with the DUP would not be allowed to undermine the Good Friday Agreement.

And she said: We continue our discussions with the DUP. We are talking about a confidence and supply agreement with them.

On reaching such an agreement, we will make sure that the details of that are made public so that people can see exactly what that is based on.

Some Conservative MPs have questioned whether the deal is even necessary, given the DUPs determination that Jeremy Corbyn must be prevented from reaching No 10.

The Queens Speech would pass, albeit narrowly, even if the DUP merely abstained  rather than voted with the Tories  they argue.

The talks to achieve a confidence and supply arrangement with the right-wing Northern Ireland party have proved tortuous, despite Ms Mays hopes of a quick success.

It would mean the DUP backing the Government on its Budget and other key votes and  crucially  preventing it being brought down by motions of no confidence.

Nine days ago, Downing Street claimed an outline agreement had been reached, but was forced to backtrack after a DUP spokesman denied it.

Last week, Sinn Fein and the SDLP, as well as the cross-community Alliance Party, warned that a deal would undermine attempts to restore the power-sharing executive at Stormont.

Speaking alongside Ms May, Mr Varadkar said he was reassured by the Prime Minister's commitment to make public the terms of any agreement.

We spoke about the very important need for both governments to be impartial actors when it comes to Northern Ireland and that we are co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, he said.

On the danger of undermining that peace process, he added: I am very reassured by what the Prime Minister said to me today that that won't be the case.

A DUP source said the negotiations were ongoing and that the party was attempting to deliver a more compassionate style of government for the whole of the UK.
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Carrie Fisher had taken cocaine, heroin and ecstasy shortly before her death, according to an autopsy.

The results indicated that the 60-year-old actor had the three drugs in her system when she became ill on a flight last year. She had a heart attack as she flew from London to Los Angeles in December, and spent several days in intensive care until she died in hospital.

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Fisher was best known for her role playing Princess Leia Organa in the original Star Wars trilogy, and later films in the franchise.

The exact cause of her death was unable to be determined in the coroners report, which indicated that several factors may have been involved. In addition to the drug use, Fisher suffered from sleep apnea. It was not clear if the drugs had actually contributed to her heart attack and death, or if they were merely coincidental.

Fishers drug abuse was well known previously, and she frequently discussed the diseases that challenged her in her work.

Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Show all 9 1 /9 Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher American actor and singer Debbie Reynolds smiles and holds her infant daughter, Carrie Fisher Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher American actress Debbie Reynolds with her daughter Carrie Fisher Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Actress Debbie Reynolds, poses with her children Carrie Fisher and Todd Fisher Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher arrive at the premiere of 'Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith' Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Actress Carrie Fisher and her mother, actress Debbie Reynolds Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Actress Debbie Reynolds accepts the Life Achievement Award from her daughter, actress Carrie Fisher onstage at the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher Actresses Carrie Fisher, Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award recipient Debbie Reynolds, and Billie Lourd pose in the press room during the 21st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher A candle is seen on the star for Debbie Reynolds on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California Getty Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher A view of a temporary star made by fans in tribute to actress Carrie Fisher on Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California Getty

My mom battled drug addiction and mental illness her entire life, daughter Billie Lourd said in a statement provided to People magazine. She ultimately died of it. She was purposefully open in all of her work about the social stigmas surrounding these diseases.

She talked about the shame that torments people and their families confronted by these diseases. I know my Mom, shed want her death to encourage people to be open about their struggles. Seek help, fight for government funding for mental health programmes. Shame and those social stigmas are the enemies of progress to solutions and ultimately a cure. Love you Momby, she wrote.

Fisher died just one day before her mother, fellow actress Debbie Reynolds. In addition to drug abuse, she frequently discussed suffering from bipolar disorder. She had previously admitted to taking cocaine and LSD.

The only lesson for me, or anybody, is that you have to get help. Im not embarrassed, she told People in 2013 when discussing her inability to permanently quit doing drugs.

That willingness to discuss her struggles with drugs and mental health was cheered when she died this past winter. Fans and columnists wrote about her honesty, and encouraged more people to open up to that sort of conversation so that the stigma of the diseases could be lifted, allowing people who are suffering to seek out help and treatment.

That message is particularly important in the United States these days, where a heroin epidemic has exploded. Mortalities related to heroin, prescription pain killers, and other opioids have skyrocketed lately in a spike that has shadowed increases seen during the HIV and crack epidemic seen in the late 1990s.
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Dawn Chapman had listened with surprise and scepticism as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency vowed to clean up West Lake, the nuclear waste dump that has filled her days and nights with worry.

The past administration honestly just didnt pay attention to [it], Scott Pruitt stressed on a local radio show in April. Were going to get things done at West Lake. The days of talking are over.

The next month, Pruitt took to television to say a plan for the site was coming very soon as part of his push to prioritise Superfund cleanups across the country. Its not a matter of money, he said. Its a matter of leadership and attitude and management.

On a blue-sky afternoon, Chapman sat in her small home in this leafy St Louis suburb and mulled the latest set of promises from Washington  this time from a man known more for suing the EPA and rolling back environmental regulations than for cracking down on pollution.

Why our site? Why now? Can he keep those promises? the mother-of-three wondered. Her family lives only a couple of miles from West Lake, a contaminated landfill that contains thousands of tonnes of waste from the Second World War-era Manhattan Project. My biggest fear is hes just going to put a Band-Aid on it.

In Bridgeton and elsewhere, others are asking similar questions with various degrees of hope and hesitation. In his previous role as Oklahomas attorney general, Pruitt had long-standing ties to oil and gas companies and a litigious history fighting the EPA. And although he has called the federal Superfund programme vital and a cornerstone of the EPAs mission, the Trump administration has proposed slashing its funding by 30 per cent.

With more than 1,300 Superfund sites nationwide  some of which have lingered for decades on the EPAs ever-growing priorities list  its unclear how Pruitt will back up his professed commitment in an age of scorched-earth budgets. Critics worry that a single-minded focus on speeding up the process could lead to inadequate cleanups.

Pruitt has largely dismissed such issues. He argues that the programme is beset more by bloated administrative costs and a shortage of initiative than by budget woes and notes that, at most sites, private funding is available from companies deemed responsible for cleanups.

This agency has not responded to Superfund with the type of urgency and commitment that the people of this country deserve, Pruitt reiterated last week  days before a contingent from Bridgeton would arrive in Washington, DC, in the hope of meeting with him. He said he understands communities distrust, not just about West Lake but many sites. Im very sensitive and sympathetic to what their concerns are, he said. This agency has failed them ... They have a right to be sceptical.

That they are. Residents in the shadow of Superfund sites remain wary of his pronouncements.

Actions speak louder than words, said BrieAnn McCormick, whose neighbourhood is closest to West Lake.

Families here have long lived with the reality of the site, which got its Superfund designation in 1990. The 200 acres include not just the radioactive waste that was illegally dumped in 1973, but also an adjacent landfill where decomposing rubbish as deep as 150 feet is smouldering in what scientists call a subsurface burning event. The fire is now about 600 feet from that other waste.

West Lake has made Bridgeton the kind of place where some parents drive their children to playgrounds far from the landfill. Where some people keep homemade kits in their cars  face masks for days the stench hits, eyedrops for irritation, Tylenol for headaches. Where others trade stories of cancers, auto-immune diseases and miscarriages theyre scared could be related to the Superfund site, although air, water and soil tests from the EPA and other government agencies have shown no link.

Activists fault the EPA for moving at a glacial pace. They accuse Republic Services, which took ownership of the landfill in 2008, of trying to avoid full-fledged cleanup.

Similar dynamics are playing out at many Superfund sites, where abandoned mines, contaminated rivers and manufacturing plants have left behind a daunting trail of lead, arsenic, mercury and other harmful substances. Some megasites involve tracing hundreds of chemicals and scores of polluters.

Pruitt recently issued a directive saying that he plans to be more directly involved in decisions about Superfund cleanups, particularly ones in excess of $50m (39m). He established a Superfund task force, which is expected to report back this week on how to restructure the programme in ways that favour expeditious remediation, reduce the burden on firms responsible for cleanups and encourage private investment in the programme.

If this were some other world, it might be easy to believe they are trying to move things faster and in the right way, said Nancy Loeb, director of the Environmental Advocacy Centre at Northwestern Universitys Pritzker School of Law. I dont want to say the Obama administration did a great job on Superfund; they didnt ... But I fear [this administration] cutting its budget and giving access to the administrator for all big companies who want to come and talk is a death knell for meaningful cleanups.

When Congress established the Superfund programme in 1980, lawmakers gave the EPA legal powers to force polluters to pay to fix the messes they had created. They also created a tax on the petroleum and chemical industries to offset expensive, complicated cleanups when a polluting company had gone bankrupt or could not be identified.

The tax generated billions of dollars for cleanups. But Congress allowed it to expire in 1995, and by 2003 the industry-funded trust fund was essentially broke. Lawmakers have chipped away at Superfunds budget since. The programme gets about $1.1bn a year, about half what it did in 1999.

As funding dwindled throughout the Noughties, the pace of cleanups also declined. Trump has proposed to slash $330m more from the programme annually.

Either cut the budget or make things go better for Superfund. Pick one. You cant do both, said Peter deFur, who has consulted on Superfund sites for more than two decades.

He and other experts acknowledge the agency hasnt always moved quickly enough. But they are concerned Pruitts focus on accelerating cleanups might lead to simplistic solutions that leave lingering environmental risks to nearby communities, which disproportionately are poor and minority.

The cheapest and quickest option is not always the best, deFur said. Its dangerous to not get it right the first time.

Mathy Stanislaus, who oversaw the programme throughout the Obama administration, was troubled by the language Pruitt used in setting up the Superfund task force  a group led by a former Oklahoma banker whose resume includes no environmental experience.

Nothing in his charge ... talks about the public health dimension, Stanislaus said. That, from my perspective, is revealing.

Pruitt insists that letting polluted sites just languish does nothing to protect public health.

Listen, these [responsible companies] across the country are going to be held accountable, he said last week. Theyre going to get these areas cleaned up, or they are going to be sued by this agency.

Despite West Lakes complex challenges, the long-awaited cleanup could move forward relatively soon. For one, there are viable parties on the hook to pay the costs. (Republic Services is one of three potentially responsible parties that would shoulder the remediation.) And with the EPAs site investigation largely complete, officials already planned to make a final decision this year on how cleanup would proceed, according to former regional administrator Mark Hague.

My goal was to get this decision done and done right with solid science and engineering behind it, Hague said. This is not a place to take shortcuts ... At the end of the day, youve got to be able to tell people that what weve done will be protective of human health and the environment.

Although some nearby residents have pushed for a full removal of the radioactive material, a solution that could cost in excess of $400m, Republic Services has maintained that capping the site with layers of rock, clay and soil would be sufficient and would avoid the risks associated with disturbing the nuclear waste. Its approach would cost closer to $50m.

Company spokesman Russ Knocke said claims about health dangers are unfounded and unnecessarily divisive. Theres too much fearmongering. Theres too much misinformation, and at some point science has to carry the day, he said. The landfill is safe, it is in a managed state, and accusations of the contrary are simply false.

There is one thing the company and activists agree when it comes to a cleanup, however. Its taken too long, Knocke said. We certainly welcome the priority the new administrator is placing on the site.

Yet even with Pruitts renewed sense of urgency, tapping private dollars is not an option at some Superfund locations. At these orphaned sites, polluting companies long ago went bankrupt or ceased to be liable, and the cleanup responsibilities now fall mostly to the federal government. Its difficult to envision such places getting fixed without an adequate Superfund budget.

Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Show all 8 1 /8 Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP

If we feel like the numbers of the budget are not sufficient to address those, well be sure to let Congress know, Pruitt said.

Funding is whats needed in St Louis, Michigan, a small town that was once a hub for DDT manufacturing. The site of the former Velsicol Chemical Corp there remains among the most contaminated anywhere. Nearly 40 years after the plants closure, robins still sometimes drop dead from the sky after having eaten tainted worms from the soil.

We are just waiting for money from EPA, said Jane Keon, who helped found a local citizens task force. The group saw an opportunity after Pruitt vowed to prioritise the Superfund programme.

We request that you consider funding our site as an excellent public relations example, it wrote him in a letter. All we need now to get underway is several million dollars ... If you can get those dollars to us, [remediation] work can begin at once, and you would have an example to point to.

In and around Bridgeton, the waiting also continues. People like Meagan Beckermann, pregnant with her third child, weigh up whether to leave or stay.

For us, its constantly what if, she said.

On that sunny afternoon this month, Dawn Chapman stopped to visit Karen Nickel, who for years had no idea she was raising her four children down the road from a Superfund site.

The pair co-founded Just Moms, a group advocating to clean up West Lake or relocate families living close by. As they sat at Nickels kitchen table, they fretted that Pruitt might indeed allow the radioactive waste to be capped in place rather than removed  a solution the EPA had proposed almost a decade ago before reconsidering.

Its got to be done the right way, Chapman said, as Nickel nodded in agreement. Theres no Harry Potter wand here.

Not far away in Spanish Village, the small development closer to West Lake than any other, McCormick stood on her front porch, gazing out toward the playground her children never visit. The neighbourhood seemed so normal, with its freshly mowed lawns and tidy sidewalks. Balloons fluttered from a nearby house, celebrating a new babys arrival.

McCormick, a teacher, is tired of worrying about the nuclear waste just over the hill. She and her husband recently decided they no longer will depend on Pruitt or anyone else to finally act.

Im meeting with a realtor this afternoon, she said. It bothers me, the idea of selling this to someone else. But I just have to get my kids out of here.

A few days later, a sign showed up in her yard. An open house was held Sunday.

 Washington Post
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Nearly 19 children a day die from or are treated for a gunshot wound every day in the US, according to a new study.

A recent study concluded that nearly 1,300 children died as a result of a gun from 2012 to 2014 and nearly 6,000 were treated for gun-related injuries.

The study, published in the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, looked at data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Vital Statistics System and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System.

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The results concluded that of the injured children, an overwhelming 71 per cent were a result of assault. Approximately 21 per cent were unintentional, often children taking their parents' firearms without knowing the dangers of doing so.

Of the child deaths, over half were homicides and 38 per cent were a result of suicide.

The study also took a deeper look at gender and gun violence among those under 17 in the US.

Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Show all 12 1 /12 Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Protesters hold up signs and flags to show solidarity with House Democrats after they staged a sit in over gun-control laws on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on June 23. 2016. Andrew Caballero/AFP/Getty Images Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC A lone protester wears tape printed with the U.S. flag on her mouth while attending an open hearing of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence where intelligence chiefs, including Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, testified at the U.S. Capitol February 25, 2016 in Washington, DC. Clapper said that the group known as the Islamic State, or ISIS, has become a greater global threat than al-Qaida ever was. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) waves to supporters along with House Democrats after their sit-in over gun-control law on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Supporters of House Democrats taking part in a sit-in on the House Chamber shout encouragement from outside the U.S. Capitol on June 22, 2016 in Washington, DC. Led by civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) Democrats, have maintained control of the House chamber since this morning demanding a vote on gun control legislation. Pete Marovich/Getty Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Democrats walk out on the East Front on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., after their sit-in over gun-control law, June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC A poster for the gun-control law support is left on the ground on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) (R) applauds as Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) (L) waves to supporters along with House Democrats after their sit-in over gun-control law on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Supporters of House Democrats taking part in a sit-in on the House Chamber shout encouragement from outside the U.S. Capitol on June 22, 2016 in Washington, DC. Led by civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) Democrats have maintained control of the House chamber since this morning demanding a vote on gun control legislation. Pete Marovich/Getty Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) (R) and Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) (L) walk out with House Democrats on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., after their sit-in over gun-control law, June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Democrats walk out on the East Front on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., after their sit-in over gun-control law, June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC U.S. House Democrats walk out on the East Front on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., after their sit-in over gun-control law, June 23, 2016. Yuri Gripas/Reuters Protests call for stricter gun-control laws in Washington DC Protesters hold up signs and flags to show solidarity with House Democrats after they staged a sit in over gun-control laws on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on June 23. 2016. Andrew Caballero/AFP/Getty Images

Of the 1,300 children who died in the two year period, 82 per cent were boys. They comprised 84 per cent of the nearly 6,000 children injured due to a gun.

The most firearm deaths were in the African American community, while white and Native American children had the highest rates of firearm suicide.
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The father of the murdered Muslim teenager Nabra Hassanen has said he believes his daughter was "100%" killed because of her faith, despite police ruling that it was not a hate crime.

Mohmoud Hassanen was asked by The Guardian if his daughter was killed "because she was Muslim". I believe so, 100%," he replied. "In the McDonalds theres a lot of kids, a lot of people; why did he run behind this girl especially? For what?

When I go to court Im going to look him in the eye: why did you do this to my daughter? Then Im going to forgive him and leave him to Gods face. The lord is going to judge him. He took my daughters life.

The teenage girl was accosted by a passing motorist while leaving the International House of Pancakes early Sunday morning. The girl and her friends, who were dressed in traditional Muslim robes, had just finished their last meal of the day before their Ramadan fast.

Local police say the motorist got out of his car and began assaulting the teenager. Her friends ran for help at a local mosque, setting off an 11-hour police hunt for the missing girl.

While searching for Ms Hassanen, police officers saw Darwin Martinez Torres driving suspiciously and arrested him as a suspect, before charging him with murder.

The mosque, All Dulles Area Muslim Society (Adams), has called on law enforcement to determine the motive of the crime and prosecute to the full extent of the law.

We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event, it said in a statement.

In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Show all 6 1 /6 In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters In pictures: Van hits pedestrians near Finsbury Park mosques Reuters

Juvenile court officials, however, told The Independent that Martinez had not been charged with a hate crime. He appeared in court on Monday to face one count of second-degree murder.

The Fairfax County police also said they were not investigating the incident as a hate crime. Police department spokesperson Don Gotthardt told The Independent there was no indication that the crime was connected to Ms Hassanens religion, dress, or proximity to the mosque.

In a statement issued later that day, the police department attributed the incident to road rage.

This tragic case appears to be the result of a road rage incident involving the suspect, who was driving and who is now charged with murder, and a group of teenagers who was walking and riding bikes in and along a roadway, the department said.

The department that they would pursue any new information that indicated Hassanen had been targeted for her race or religion.

Martinez is currently being held without bail at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Centre. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for 19 July. It was not immediately clear whether he had entered a plea to the charges against him.

At a gathering with family and friends on Sunday night, the teenagers mother, Sawsan Gazzar, asked them to pray for me that I can handle this.

I lost my daughter, my first reason for happiness, she said.

I cant think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Fathers Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself, Loudoun County Sheriff Michael Chapman told reporters.

Adams Mosque said it plans to continue daily and nightly Ramadan prayers. The alleged attack occurred just six days before the end of the Islamic holy month.
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Otto Warmbier, the American student who had been detained in North Korea, has died his family has said.

Mr Warmbier was transferred back to the United States after over a year in North Korean captivity. He had been sentenced to 15 years hard labour after he was caught trying to take a propaganda banner from North Korea for someone back home in exchange for a used car and to impress a semi-secret society he wanted to join. He was transferred back to the US in a coma, but had showed signs of severe neurological decline.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20 p.m," the Warmbier family said in a statement.

"It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost  future time that wont be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person", they wrote.

Mr Warmbier's parents, Fred and Cindy, said in a statement after his release that they had been told their son had been in a coma since March 2016, and that they had only learned that he was in that state weeks ago.

Mr Warmbier has been described as a bright and promising young man with an intense curiosity about the world. He was 21 when he was taken prisoner by the North Koreans. He was a college student who, if he was not taken prisoner and life had gone to plan, would currently be in his first month as a new graduate of the University of Virginia.

North Korea Prison Camps Show all 7 1 /7 North Korea Prison Camps North Korea Prison Camps An overview of Camp 25 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps The administration area of Camp 15 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps A water treatment system in Camp 25 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps Crop fields and, inset, prisoners in Camp 25 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps The reported crematorium in Camp 25 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps A possible mine Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe North Korea Prison Camps A walled compound in Camp 15 Amnesty International/DigitalGlobe

The young man from outside of Cincinnati planned on studying abroad during his third year of college in China, which is how he ended up taking a trip to North Korea. While researching his studies in China, Mr Warmbier found out about Chinese companies that offer trips to North Korea. His parents were okay with his decision to go.

Mr Warmbier's trial was broadcast on international news channels. In the trail, Mr Warmbier pleaded with North Korean officials to have pity on him. At first he was calm, and then he choked up, fell to tears, and pleaded desperately for help.

"I've made the worst mistake of my life!" he said.

He was still sent to prison, on charges of "perpetrating a hostile act against" the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. It remains unclear if his admission of guilt was forced, and whether he actually tried to remove the propaganda banner during his trip.

The US government warns against travel to North Korea, but stops short of outright banning it. The country is clearly labelled as a dangerous place for Americans, even though almost every traveller to the country returns unscathed. The volatile nature of the country however, means that quite a few have been detained for shorter periods of time for seemingly small infractions.

There are three Americans who remain in North Korean custody.
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A former Obama administration official is challenging a chief architect of Donald Trumps health care bill for his House seat in 2018.

Andy Kim, the former Iraq director for Mr Obamas National Security Council, announced his run against Republican Representative Tom McArthur after receiving more than $50,000 in donations on a campaign crowd-funding site.

Thanks for amazing support! the 34-year-old DC resident tweeted. I'm inspired by your energy to flip NJ03 and Congress in 2018.

Mr Kim is hoping to flip New Jerseys third district, which went for Mr Trump by 51 per cent in November. Mr McArthur beat his Democratic challenger by more than 20 per cent in the same election.

Mr Kims campaign is getting a boost, however, by the incumbent's most recent piece of legislation: a key amendment to the American Health Care Act (AHCA). The so-called McArthur Amendment would allow states to roll back protections for those with pre-existing conditions, and potentially cease coverage for "essential health benefits" like maternity care and mental health services.

The health care bill as a whole would leave 23 million more Americans without health insurance, according to estimates by the Congressional Budget Office.

While the McArthur Amendment earned the AHCA the support it needed to pass the House, it also drew major outcry from voters around the country. The AHCA's passage caused the Cook Political Report to change their prediction for New Jersey's third district from "likely Republican" to "lean Republican" in 2018.

The backlash culminated in a heated town hall with New Jersey residents in May, when voters vented their concerns about pre-existing conditions and essential health benefits to Mr McArthur for almost five hours.

Mr Kim was in attendance, and took the opportunity to speak out against the representatives signature legislation.

This is out of touch with the district that I grew up in, its out of touch with the district that all of these people are involved in and live in, he told Blue Jersey. Honestly I think what you see today is the people fighting back; the people saying, Enough.

The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Show all 9 1 /9 The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the media White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer takes questions during the daily press briefing Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Union leaders applaud US President Donald Trump for signing an executive order withdrawing the US from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations during a meeting in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington DC. Mr Trump issued a presidential memorandum in January announcing that the US would withdraw from the trade deal Getty The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Mexico wall A US Border Patrol vehicle sits waiting for illegal immigrants at a fence opening near the US-Mexico border near McAllen, Texas. The number of incoming immigrants has surged ahead of the upcoming Presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, who has pledged to build a wall along the US-Mexico border. A signature campaign promise, Mr Trump outlined his intention to build a border wall on the US-Mexico border days after taking office Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and abortion US President Donald Trump signs an executive order as Chief of Staff Reince Priebus looks on in the Oval Office of the White House. Mr Trump reinstated a ban on American financial aide being granted to non-governmental organizations that provide abortion counseling, provide abortion referrals, or advocate for abortion access outside of the United States Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the Dakota Access pipeline Opponents of the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines hold a rally as they protest US President Donald Trump's executive orders advancing their construction, at Columbus Circle in New York. US President Donald Trump signed executive orders reviving the construction of two controversial oil pipelines, but said the projects would be subject to renegotiation Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and 'Obamacare' Nancy Pelosi who is the minority leader of the House of Representatives speaks beside House Democrats at an event to protect the Affordable Care Act in Los Angeles, California. US President Donald Trump's effort to make good on his campaign promise to repeal and replace the healthcare law failed when Republicans failed to get enough votes. Mr Trump has promised to revisit the matter Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Donald Trump and 'sanctuary cities' US President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January threatening to pull funding for so-called "sanctuary cities" if they do not comply with federal immigration law AP The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and the travel ban US President Donald Trump has attempted twice to restrict travel into the United States from several predominantly Muslim countries. The first attempt, in February, was met with swift opposition from protesters who flocked to airports around the country. That travel ban was later blocked by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The second ban was blocked by a federal judge a day before it was scheduled to be implemented in mid-March SANDY HUFFAKER/AFP/Getty Images The controversial orders Donald Trump has already issued Trump and climate change US President Donald Trump sought to dismantle several of his predecessor's actions on climate change in March. His order instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to reevaluate the Clean Power Plan, which would cap power plant emissions Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Mr Kim has also criticised his millionaire opponent for being out of touch with the struggles that Americans face to pay their bills and provide for their families.

But Mr McArthurs personal fortune could pose problems for Mr Kim in the future. The representative contributed $5 million to his own campaign in 2014  the most expensive open-seat Congressional race of the year. He raised $232,590 in the first quarter of 2017, and an additional $800,000 in a fundraiser hosted by Mr Trump.

Mr Kim, however, says he finds hope in recent elections  like the Georgia Sixth Congressional District special election  that show Democrats surging in traditionally red areas.

We want that same energy, Mr. Kim told The New York Times of the Georgia election. We want people around the country to focus in and say, This is an opportunity for us to push back and hold MacArthur accountable for his actions.

Mr MacArthur campaign spokesman Chris Russell defended the congressman's efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act and said he's determined to confront and solve serious problems.

Mr Russell told the Associated Press: As for Andy Kim running on the health care issue, if he is as much of an 'expert' on health care as he was when advising President Obama on Isis in Iraq, voters in Burlington and Ocean Counties would be wise to keep him on the JV Team.
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Donald Trump is taking the US back to the past with his decision to withdraw the country from the Paris Agreement on climate change and efforts to revitalise the coal industry, a senior Vatican official has said.

Bishop Marcelo Sanchez Sorondo, head of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, told Reuters that people should trust scientists to describe the world around them, comparing those who did not to flat-Earthers.

The Argentinian cleric suggested the quality of science teaching in the US was partly to blame for the refusal by many to accept established facts about climate change, saying the German public was more educated in sciences and believe in science.

The US President has claimed climate change is a hoax, appointed a string of deniers and sceptics to senior positions in his administration, and has started rolling back legislation designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the natural world. He also argued that the Paris Agreement would damage the American economy.

But Bishop Sanchez Sorondo said energy was increasingly being produced by renewable energy, rather than fossil fuels, so Mr Trumps decision to promote coal was a mistake.

This is to go back to the past and not to see the future, he said. The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement was a disaster for this country (the United States) and also for all the world.

He added that Pope Francis feared any harm to the environment would be like a harmful boomerang that will come back ... especially to poor people.

Clearly thinking of climatologists, Bishop Sanchez Sorondo said it was important people listened to experts.

The real situation of the Earth today, of the planet, is described by scientists, he said.

To illustrate that point, he said it was difficult to say the Earth is not round  as demonstrated by scientists, astronauts and explorers, among others  even though it seems flat when standing on the ground.
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As Jon Ossoff sprang into a campaign office on the eve of the most closely watched  and costliest  special election in history, there were few clues on the 30-year-old's face that he had been shaking hands and banging on doors all year.

His Republican opponent, Karen Handel, a former state official, has been trying to use the Democrats youth and lack of experience, against him. But Mr Ossoff, who once studied at the London School of Economics, hopes it will help him win a congressional contest that is being watched around the world. If he does emerge as the victor, it would be the first time a Democrat has won Georgia's 6th congressional district in four decades.

Thanks for being here today everyone. The work youre doing here today is the most important in the campaign, he told his supporters. Because, its all about turnout. Its going to come down to the wire.

He said many people were disenchanted with politics. There are the people in this room that can restore that faith  Lets get out the vote like never before, he said.

The polite and humble former documentary filmmaker has been careful throughout his campaign  situated in the green suburbs north of Atlanta  to avoid being overly critical of Donald Trump. In a race where the most recent polls have him and Ms Handel, 55, separated by just a couple of points, he does not want to do anything to deter any Republicans considering voting for him.

Yet, lots of his supporters are not so cautious. Many of those volunteering for his campaign  and planning to vote for him  said they were inspired to act after the presidential election victory of Mr Trump. For a number of those individuals, and for many across the entire nation, a victory for Mr Ossoff would count as a direct rejection of the New York tycoon and everything he stands for.

Indeed, it has been contributions from Democrats and others across America, that have helped raise more than $23m for Mr Ossoffs campaign. By the time all the spending on both sides is tallied, reports suggest the total will top an astonishing $50m, a record.

 Jon Ossoff: Georgia election will come down to turn out

I hope it sends a message at a national level. I woke up after the presidential election and found myself in a country I did not recognise, said Roma Rishi, 36, a volunteer for the campaign.

I did not realise there was still so much misogyny and racism in the country. I realised I could not simply be a voter. I had to do something.

Asked by The Independent what message his victory would send around the world, Mr Ossoff said it would show that voters here wanted someone who could break the political gridlock.

It would send a message that the people of Georgia want a fresh start, he said.

Mr Ossoffs task is not inconsiderable. The Republicans have held the district since 1979 and for many years it was the seat of Newt Gingrich, who went on to become Speaker of the House and has more recently emerged as a stalwart supporter of Mr Trump. In the 2012 presidential election, the district went to Mitt Romney by 23 points, but last year, Mr Trump only edged Hillary Clinton by 1.5 per cent.

Ms Handel is fighting to hold on to a seat Republicans have occupied since 1979 (AP)

The special election was declared after the incumbent congressman, Tom Price, was asked by Mr Trump to become his secretary of Health and Human Services. An open primary was held in April in which Mr Ossoff received 48.1 per cent of the vote, just short of the 50 per cent threshold needed to win outright and avoid the run-off with Mr Handel.

Democrats are throwing everything they can into the race. Special elections earlier this year in Kansas and Montana have already enthused the party's grass roots, and they believe a victory for Mr Ossoff could give them the momentum to flip 24 Republican seats in the 2018 midterms and take control of the House.

This congressional seat is 1/435th of one house of one of three branches of the federal government. It doesnt determine control of the House, either. And we know from past experience that even if the Democrats win it, its far too early for this one special election to predict the results of the 2018 midterm elections, said Larry Sabato, Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia,

So why is it important? The Democrats desperately need a victory. They control nothing at the federal level after losing an election they absolutely should have won. It shouldnt even have been close. So far Democrats have lost all the key special elections since Trump became president  though they have managed to increase their share of the vote just about everywhere."

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. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. 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He added: If Democrats cant switch this seat, which is in a highly educated area where Hillary Clinton nearly upset Trump, how are Democrats going to find the 24 seats they need to take control of the House?

Those on the ground, know things are likely to go down to the wire. With the exception of an Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll, which last week gave Mr Ossoff a seven-point lead, the RealClearPolitics site, which monitors national polls, suggests he has a lead of just or two points.

An insight into the way the vote has so evenly divided people came on a drive through a leafy road, Gramercy Circle, less than a mile from Mr Ossoffs morning appearance. It seemed that almost every house had a sign on the lawn for either Mr Ossoff or Ms Handel, and they seemed evenly distributed.

One resident who did not not have a sign was 43-year-old Jennifer Lathrop. She said she had not put one up because feelings are running pretty high and did not want to do anything to provoke a passer-by.

A music teacher who described herself as being fiscally conservative but more moderate on social issues, Ms Lathrop, who has two children, said she would be voting for Mr Ossoff as she believed he had the best qualities to help people in the district.

Yet she said few people she spoke to were seeing the race through a local prism. I think people believe its a referendum on the national situation, she said.

She certainly hoped a victory for Ms Ossoff would send a message that people  especially people in an strongly Republican area  did not approve of Mr Trump. She added: To me, he is a morally repugnant person.
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Donald Trump has attacked the "brutality of the North Korean regime" following the death of American student Otto Warmbier - who had been imprisoned in the country for 17 months.

The US President has offered the family of Mr Warmbier his respects after news broke that the young man had died after being transported back to the United States from North Korea.

Melania and I offer our deepest condolences to the family of Otto Warmbier on his untimely passing, Mr Trump said in a statement. There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ottos family and friends, and all who loved him.

Recommended Student detained by North Korea dies after being returned home in coma

The President proceeded to say that Mr Warmbiers untimely death recommitted his administration to make sure that another tragedy like the one that surrounded Mr Warmbier would not happen again.

The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim, he said.

Mr Warmbier was imprisoned in a North Korean jail last year, eventually sentenced to 15 years of hard labour for allegedly attempting to steal a North Korean propaganda banner. He was handed over to US officials and flown back to America last week having been in a coma shortly after his March 2016 jailing.

The 22-year-old has been described as a bright, enthusiastic, and adventurous young man. The University of Virginia student was planning on spending his third year of college in China, which is how he found out about the Chinese tour companies that bring Americans on trips to see North Korea. His parents had thought the idea was okay at the time.

North Korean officials have indicated that he went into the coma after getting botulism, and taking a sleeping pill. The family has indicated that they doubt the veracity of that claim. Doctors who examined Mr Warmbier after his release said there was no sign of botulism in his system.

Physicians said last Thursday that Mr Warmbier had shown no sign of understanding language or of awareness of his surroundings, and had made no purposeful movements or behaviors.

The circumstances of his detention in North Korea, and what medical treatment he received there, remained a mystery. But relatives have said his condition suggests he was physically abused by his captors.

Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today, the family said in a statement following Mr Warmbier's death.

The University of Virginia student's father, Fred Warmbier, said last week that his son had been brutalised and terrorised by the Pyongyang government

Mr Warmbier was freed after the US State Department's special envoy on North Korea, Joseph Yun, traveled to Pyongyang and demanded the student's release on humanitarian grounds, capping a flurry of secret diplomatic contacts, a U.S. official said last week.

Tensions between the United States and North Korea have been heightened by dozens of North Korean missile launches and two nuclear bomb tests since the beginning of last year. Pyongyang has also vowed to develop a nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile capable of hitting the US mainland.

Susan Thornton, the US acting assistant secretary of state for East Asia, said earlier on Monday that the United States was concerned for the welfare of the three other US citizens still held in North Korea - Korean-Americans Tony Kim, Kim Dong Chul and Kim Hak Song.

Responding to the death of Mr Warmbier, US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said: We hold North Korea accountable for Otto Warmbiers unjust imprisonment, and demand the release of three other Americans who have been illegally detained.

Agencies contributed to this report
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Scott Pruitt, the climate science-denying head of the US Environmental Protection Agency, met with a string of fossil fuel industry representatives during his first weeks in office  but no environmental groups  according to a copy of his diary obtained under Freedom of Information laws.

Mr Pruitt, a lawyer who sued the EPA numerous times while working as Oklahomas attorney general, infamously claimed carbon dioxide was not a primary cause of climate change, contrary to well-established science as the American Meteorological Society, among others, pointed out.

He is also a staunch supporter of Donald Trumps plans to reinvigorate the ailing US coal industry.

So it is perhaps unsurprising that fossil fuel industry representatives and other interested parties beat a path to his door, according to the diary, which covers late February and March and which was obtained by E&E News.

On March 16, Mr Pruitt was due to meet Congressman David McKinley, chair of the Congressional Coal Caucus, to discuss ways that both he and the Caucus can be helpful.

On March 20, John Minge, the president of BP America, was listed as arriving for a meet and greet and a day later John Watson, chief executive of another oil giant, Chevron, was due to discuss regulatory reform in our sector and share Chevrons perspective on global oil and gas developments.

The following day, Steve Pastor, president of petroleum operations at BHP Billiton, was expected for a meeting under the heading thank for leadership, focus on methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

Later that evening, the diary listed a dinner held by the American Petroleum Institute at the Trump International Hotel in Washington DC.

The topic of discussion was to be environment, regulations and energy policy as well as the [Trump] administrations plans on US oil and natural gas development. Two members of EPAs staff were listed as attending.

On March 28, the diary listed a meeting with AJ Ferate, of the Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association.

The entry says the topic of the meeting would be just a few words of appreciation for cancelling the Information Collection Request (ICR) on the oil & gas industry, and 2) to gather his thoughts on what he foresees occurring with the selection of the Region 6 EPA administrator.

A meeting with George Damiris, chief executive of HollyFrontier, a Dallas-based company that runs five oil refineries in Kansas, Oklahoma, Utah, Wyoming and New Mexico, was listed for two days after that.

Mr Damiris would like to discuss the renewable fuel standard and point of obligation issue, as well as the broader EPA policies that impact the company, the diary said.

HollyFrontier processes roughly 500,000 barrels of crude daily. They have a market cap of about $7 billion and employ roughly 5,000 people.

The diary listed no meetings with major environmental groups.

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

However Mr Pruitt did meet representatives of The Nature Conservancy and the Audubon Society in April, according to an EPA press release.

Liz Bowman, an EPA spokeswoman, told E&E News that agency officials continue to meet with a variety of stakeholders, including industry, bipartisan Members of Congress, Governors and environmental organisations.
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Donald Trump has failed to personally acknowledge the attack on members of a mosque in London, and the murder of a Muslim teenager in Virginia, prompting critics to attack his silence.

The White House has commented on the Finsbury Park attack, saying that they have reached out and offered to help in any way possible. But Mr Trump himself has not commented directly, instead taking to Twitter to attack Democrats and endorse Republican candidates.

The President's critics have argued that while he is often quick to condemn acts of terrorism carried out by Muslims, his reaction to terrorism committed by white people is anything but swift.

Nothing from Trump, the writer and activist Shaun King tweeted in response to Justin Trudeaus condolences to London. [He] tends to generally not mind when white men kill or maim people  particularly if they kill Muslims.

Fifteen hours after a man drove a van into a group of Muslims near a London mosque, killing at least one and injuring 10 others, there was still no note of condolences from the President, the Washington Post posted in an editorial analysing Mr Trumps response to terrorist attacks. He tweeted three and a half hours after the Paris attacks in November 2015, roughly 90 minutes after the San Bernardino, California attack, and fewer than 12 hours after an EgyptAir flight went missing in 2016, the editorial read. Mr Trump tweeted about the London bridge attack earlier this month before authorities had even identified the attack as terrorism.

Did anyone expect Trump to condemn the terrorist act in London? Amy Siskind, the president of the pro-women non-profit The New Agenda asked on Twitter.

Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Show all 8 1 /8 Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AFP/Getty Images Thousands march against Donald Trump in LGBT rights parade AP

Shortly after the Finsbury Park attack it was confirmed that the missing 17-year-old girl Nabra Hassanen had been found dead in a pond in Virginia. Likewise, critics questioned why Trump had failed to address the tragedy.

So far, Mr Trump is yet to address any of the incidents in a personal capacity.

The young girl in Virginia was killed by a 22-year-old Salvadoran national in what has been called a "road rage" incident by officials, though the investigation is ongoing. Her family insists that she was targeted because she was Muslim, since there they did not know the man who killed her before. Family and friends described her as as timid and conflict-averse. US immigration services have asked for a "detainer" be placed on her killer, meaning that deportation proceedings are being considered.
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A 17-year-old Muslim girl was assaulted, abducted and killed as she was travelling home in Virginia on Sunday, after attending her local mosque.

The girl, named locally as Nabra Hassanen of Reston, had been attending the All Dulles Area Muslim Society mosque in observance of the last 10 days of Ramadan when the attack happened in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Nabra was walking home from with several friends when they were confronted by a motorist. At one point the man got out of his car and assaulted the girl, according to police.

The teenagers scattered during the attack but were unable to find Nabra afterwards. She was reported missing to police, sparking an hours-long search by authorities in Fairfax and Loudon counties.

A body was found in a pond in the Sterling area at around 3pm. An autopsy is yet to be conducted by a medical examiner, but police believe the remains are of the missing teenager.

A 22-year-old man named Darwin Martinez Torres was stopped during the police search for driving suspiciously in the area and charged with murder, Fairfax County Police Department said.

Police have not ruled out hate as a motivation for the attack.

Detectives told Nabras mother that the teenager was struck with a metal bat, the Washington Post reported.

I cant think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Fathers Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself, Michael Chapman, Sheriff of Loudoun County said.

Darwin Martinez Torres has been charged with murder (Fairfax County Police Department)

Arsalan Iftikhar, a human rights lawyer, told the newspaper the attack had sent fear through the Muslim community in northern Virginia: People are petrified, especially people who have young Muslim daughters.

A crowd-funding campaign to support the family of Nabra has already raised more than $115,700 (90,300).

The number of anti-Muslim bias incidents in the United States jumped 57 per cent in 2016 to 2,213, up from 1,409 in 2015, the Council on American-Islamic Relations advocacy group said in a report last month.

While the group had been seeing a rise in anti-Muslim incidents prior to Donald Trump's stunning rise in last year's presidential primaries and November election victory, it said the acceleration in bias incidents was due in part to Mr Trump's focus on militant Islamist groups and anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Muslim worshippers were targeted in a suspected terror attack in London on Sunday night. One man was killed and eight others were injured when a van collided with pedestrians near a mosque in Finsbury Park, north London.

British counter terror police are investigating the incident.

Additional reporting by Reuters
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The final words of matador Ivan Fandino as he was rushed to hospital after being gored in the ring were reportedly: "Hurry up, I'm dying."

The 36-year-old veteran was impaled by a half-tonne bull after tripping on his cape during a corrida in south-west France on Saturday.

Juan del Alamo, the matador who later killed the bull, said: "I can't believe it. None of us understand how it could have happened; it was all so fast. The bull knocked him down with its hindquarters and he fell face down."

Mr Fandino, a matador for 12 years, was originally from the Basque country. He died after the bull's horn pierced a number of vital organs in his torso, including his lungs.

French media said he suffered a heart attack on the way to hospital.

He had been injured in the ring twice before, most recently in 2015 and is believed to be the first bullfighter to die in the ring in France since 1921, The Times reported.

It is thought around 1,000 bulls die every year in French fighting rings.

The Spanish royal family and prime minister, Mariano Rajoy, honoured Mr Fandino.

King Felipe, who not known as a supporter of the sport, tweeted his tribute to a "great bullfighter figure".

Although bullfighting is traditionally associated with areas of northern Spain such as the Basque country and Catalonia, it is also popular in the Basque speaking areas of south-west France.

Mr Fandino's death comes almost a year after the death of Spanish matador, Victor Barrio, who was gored on live television in Teruel, eastern Spain.

Many have condemned the sport for its cruelty and in 2010 the Catalan regional government in Barcelona voted for a ban in 2010.

The ban was struck down by the Spanish constitutional court last year as they said Catalonia had exceeded their authority in preceding over cultural heritage.
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Israel has allegedly provided Syrian rebels with substantial funding and aid in order to maintain a buffer zone in the Golan Heights border area between the country and its war-torn neighbour, it has emerged.

The Israeli authorities have provided significant amounts of cash, food, fuel and medical supplies to Sunni rebels fighting against Bashar al-Assads government, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing "half a dozen rebels and three people familiar with Israel's thinking."

Is is well known that Israel has provided medical help for Syrian civilians and fighters inside its own borders in the past. The authorities have retaliated to occasional stray rockets in the restive border region with reprisals, but it was previously thought that the Israeli authorities largely stay out of the complicated six-year-old conflict next door.

 Donald Trump says Iran has helped commit 'unspeakable crimes' in Syria

Most Israeli air strikes in Syrian territory in the last few years have aimed to prevent weapons smuggling to Iranian-allied Hezbollah, which fights alongside the Assad government.

Hezbollah, like Iran, is committed to the destruction of the Jewish state.

The supposed support for Sunni rebels is thought to have begun as early as 2013 under former Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon, with the goal of creating a buffer zone free of radical militants such as Isis and Iranian-allied forces along Israels border.

A special Israeli army unit was created to oversee the costly aid operation, the WSJ reported, which gives Fursan al-Joulan - Knights of the Golan - an estimated $5,000 (3,900) a month. The group of around 400 fighters receives no direct support from Western rebel backers, and is not affiliated with the Free Syrian Army, the official rebel umbrella organisation.

In pictures: US missile strike against Syria Show all 7 1 /7 In pictures: US missile strike against Syria In pictures: US missile strike against Syria The guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) launches a tomahawk land attack missile in the Mediterranean Sea AP In pictures: US missile strike against Syria The United States military launched at least 50 tomahawk cruise missiles at al-Shayrat military airfield near Homs, Syria, in response to the Syrian military's alleged use of chemical weapons in an airstrike in a rebel held area in Idlib province EPA In pictures: US missile strike against Syria Shayrat airfield in Syria Getty Images In pictures: US missile strike against Syria US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) fires a tomahawk land attack missile in Mediterranean Sea Reuters In pictures: US missile strike against Syria US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) fires a tomahawk land attack missile in Mediterranean Sea Reuters In pictures: US missile strike against Syria President Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., after the US fired a barrage of cruise missiles into Syria in retaliation for this week's gruesome chemical weapons attack against civilians AP In pictures: US missile strike against Syria Syria's President Bashar al-Assad Reuters

Israel may be funding up to four other rebel groups which have Western backing. The groups use the cash to pay fighters and buy ammunition.

The alliance reportedly began after wounded Fursan al-Joulan fighters made their way to the border and begged Israeli soldiers for medical assistance. Israel stood by our side in a heroic way, the group's spokesperson, Moatasem al-Golani, told the Journal. We wouldn't have survived without Israel's assistance.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office did not respond to requests for comment. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a statement that it is committed to securing the borders of Israel and preventing the establishment of terror cells and hostile forces... in addition to providing humanitarian aid to the Syrians living in the area.

Israel and Syria have technically been in a state of warfare for decades. Syria controls around one third of the Golan Heights border, and Israel occupies the rest.

While Assad has previously claimed the Jewish state supports rebel groups, which his government refers to as terrorists, elements of the opposition have accused Israel of helping to keep the regime in power.

The most dramatic military skirmishes between the Syrian government and Israel since the civil war broke out in 2011 occurred in March, when the Israeli military shot down one of several anti-aircraft Syrian rockets fired at its warplanes, and April, when IDF strikes hit a weapons depot near Damascus.

It is extremely rare for the Syrian authorities to retaliate to Israeli operations.
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US-backed Iraqi coalition forces are facing intense resistance from the last Isis fighters holed up in the city of Mosul. Up to 100,000 civilians remain trapped in the militant-held Old City. The new offensive from the west and south  after a prolonged fight on the northern front began on Sunday. It is the final push to remove Isis from the city.

This is the final chapter, said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, senior commander in Mosul of Counter Terrorism Service, on state television. But he added that house-to-house fighting on narrow streets was not an easy task.

 Isis shoots down Iraqi Army Helicopter above Mosul

The historic district of winding alleyways is the last pocket of Mosul under jihadist control  but the fight to free the city, once the jewel in the so-called caliphates crown, has been long and bloody.

The operation now is about street fighting. Air and artillery strikes will be limited because the area is heavily populated and the buildings fragile, Sabah al-Numan, spokesperson for the elite Counter Terrorism Service, told al-Hadath TV..

Initially both Iraqi and US forces were hopeful Operation Inherent Resolve, launched in October, would be completed by the end of the year. Fierce fighting from Isis  hundreds of whose soldiers killed themselves in suicide bombings or defended their positions to the death  has slowed the operation. In nine months of fighting a total of 850,000 people have fled their homes and thousands of civilians have been killed by US-led coalition bombing, as well as at the hands of Isis. The Iraqi government has refused to release soldier casualty figures for fear the high toll would damage troops morale.

In pictures: Mosul offensive Show all 40 1 /40 In pictures: Mosul offensive In pictures: Mosul offensive A doctor carries an Iraqi newborn baby at a hospital in Mosul, Iraq July 18, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi girls play at a yard of a school in Mosul, Iraq July 18, 2017alal Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A woman on crutches who is a relative of men accused of being Islamic State militants is seen at a camp in Bartella, east of Mosul, Iraq July 15, 2017. Picture taken July 15, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A displaced girl, who fled from home carries a doll at Hamam al-Alil camp south of Mosul, Iraq July 13, 2017. Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi federal police members and civilians celebrate in the Old City of Mosul on 9 July 2017 after the government's announcement of the "liberation" of the embattled city. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's office said he was in "liberated" Mosul to congratulate "the heroic fighters and the Iraqi people on the achievement of the major victory" AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A picture taken on 9 July 2017, shows a general view of the destruction in Mosul's Old City. Iraq will announce imminently a final victory in the nearly nine-month offensive to retake Mosul from jihadists, a US general said Saturday, as celebrations broke out among police forces in the city. AFP In pictures: Mosul offensive Members of the Iraqi federal police raise the victory gesture as they ride on a humvee while advancing through the Old City of Mosul on 28 June 2017, as the offensive continues to retake the last district held by Islamic State (IS) group fighters. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Smoke billows as Iraqi forces advance through the Old City of Mosul on 26 June 2017, during the ongoing offensive to retake the last district held by the Islamic State (IS) group. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi man wearing the green scarf of the Shi'ite faith kisses an Iraqi Army soldier on safely reaching the Iraqi forces position as Iraqi civilians flee the Old City of west Mosul where heavy fighting continues on 23 June 2017. Iraqi forces continue to encounter stiff resistance with improvised explosive devices, car bombs, heavy mortar fire and snipers hampering their advance. Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A picture taken from the inside of an Iraqi forces armoured vehicle shows residents walking through a damaged street as troops advance towards Mosul's Old City on 18 June 2017, during the ongoing offensive to retake the last district still held by the Islamic State (IS) group. Military commanders told AFP the assault had begun at dawn after overnight air strikes by the US-led coalition backing Iraqi forces. They said the jihadists were putting up fierce resistance. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi Army soldiers advance in a destroyed street after an Iraqi forces airstrike targeted an Islamic State sniper position 17 June 2017 in al-Shifa, the last district of west Mosul under Islamic State control. IS snipers, as well as car and suicide bomb attacks continue to hinder the Iraqi forces efforts to retake the final district. A series of airstrikes by Iraqi helicopter gunships attempted to hit multiple Islamic State sniper positions in al-Shifa. Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier frisks a displaced Iraqi man at a temporary camp in the compound of the closed Nineveh International Hotel in Mosul on 16 June 2017 which was recovered by Iraqi troops from Islamic State group fighters earlier in the year. A screening centre set up in the compound's fairgrounds sees a constant stream of Iraqis fleeing the battle for Mosul, awaiting their turn to be checked by the Iraqi forces who are searching for suspected Islamic State (IS) group members. The small fairground lies at the end of a pontoon bridge across the Tigris recently opened to civilians that is the only physical link between the two banks of the river. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqis staying at the al-Khazir camp swim in a river near the camp for internally displaced people, located between Arbil and Mosul on 11 June 2017. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi government forces drive on a road leading to Tal Afar on 9 June 2017, during ongoing battles to retake the city from Islamic State (IS) group fighters. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi policeman carries a poster bearing an image of Mosul's iconic leaning minaret, known as the "Hadba" (Hunchback), on 22 June 2017. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqis stand in line to receive food aid in western Mosul's Zanjili neighbourhood on 7 June 2017, during ongoing battles as Iraqi forces try to retake the city from Islamic State (IS) group fighters. Living conditions in Mosul have again deteriorated since the start of the Iraqi government's offensive on the city in October in which they retook a large part of the west of the city. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Displaced Iraqis carry lightbulbs and sacks as they evacuate from western Mosul's Zanjili neighbourhood as government forces advance in the area during their ongoing battle against Islamic State (IS) group fighters on 13 May 2017 AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) flashes the victory gesture as he patrols in western Mosul's al-Islah al-Zaraye neighbourhood on 13 May 2017 AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi army soldiers from the 9th armoured division on a truck flash the sign of victory as they drive back from Mosul to the town of Qaraqosh (also known as Hamdaniya) Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Members of Iraqi forces flash the sign of victory on their vehicle as they advance towards Hammam al-Alil area south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi security forces gestures in Hammam al-Alil, south of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi children, one flashing the sign of victory, greet Iraqi army's soldiers from the 9th armoured division in the area of Ali Rash, adjacent to the eastern Al-Intissar neighbourhood of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Peshmerga forces look at a tunnel used by Islamic State militants near the town of Bashiqa, east of Mosul, during an operation to attack Islamic State militants in Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier takes a photograph with his phone as his comrade stands next to a detained man, whom the Iraqi army soldiers accused of being an Islamic State fighter, who was fleeing with his family in the Intisar disrict of eastern Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Iranian Kurdish female members of the Freedom Party of Kurdistan (PAK) hold a position in an area near the town of Bashiqa, some 25 kilometres north east of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi families, who fled their homes in Hamam al-Alil, gather on the outskirts of their town Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Displaced people walk past a checkpoint near Qayara, south of Mosul, Iraq AP In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi families who were displaced by the ongoing operation by Iraqi forces against jihadists of the Islamic State group to retake the city of Mosul, are seen gathering in an area near Qayyarah In pictures: Mosul offensive A boy who just fled Abu Jarbuah village is seen with his family at a Kurdish Peshmerga position between two front lines near Bashiqa, east of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi child eats a pomegranate upon the arrival of Iraqi forces in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive People who just fled Abu Jarbuah village sit as they eat at a Kurdish Peshmerga position between two front lines near Bashiqa, east of Mosul, Iraq Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive A couple who just fled Abu Jarbuah village are escorted by Kurdish Peshmerga soldiers Reuters In pictures: Mosul offensive Women carry a boy over a wall as civilians flee their houses in the village of Tob Zawa, Iraq AP In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier and a civilian ride a motorbike as smoke rises behind them, on the road between Qayyarah and Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi forces, wearing a skull mask, waits at a checkpoint for people fleeing the main hub city of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive An Iraqi soldier sits at a checkpoint in an area near Qayyarah Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi men prepare food portions for Iraqi forces deployed in areas south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi forces celebrate upon the arrival of vehicles bringing food to them Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive Iraqi childen smoke cigarettes upon the arrival of Iraqi forces in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty In pictures: Mosul offensive A member of Iraqi forces distributes drinks to children in the village of Umm Mahahir, south of Mosul Getty

The coalition now believes there are fewer than 300 militants holed up in the historic Old City, but in their grasp are hundreds of thousands of civilians who are being used as human shields while water, food and medical supplies run dangerously low.

Civilians have been told to flee but Isis snipers, improvised explosive devices and airstrikes make the journey to safety too perilous for many. In the past three weeks casualties have intensified because Iraqi forces could not fully secure exit corridors. Isis snipers have killed around 230 people as they have tried to cross the Tigris River in small boats, according to the UN.

Those who have managed to get to liberated parts of the city or in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in the region have spoken of families barricaded into their homes and doors and windows welded shut to stop them fleeing.

An estimated 50,000 children are in grave danger as the fighting in Mosul enters what is likely to be its deadliest phase yet, Save the Children said in a statement on Sunday.

Isis swept across more than a third of Iraq from neighbouring Syria in a series of surprise attacks in the summer of 2014. Its position as a powerful player in the region was assured when its fighters stormed Mosul, Iraqs rich, cosmopolitan second city, before the occupation home to 1.5 million people.

The fall of Mosul is dovetailing with the operation to retake Isiss de facto capital of Raqqa in northern Syria. Faced with a fight to the death with no prospect of surrender, Isis is more likely than ever to use Raqqas 220,000 civilians as human shields.

Weve already seen in Mosul the coalition using very high concentrations of firepower on densely populated areas, Chris Woods of Air Wars, an organisation monitoring US-led strikes in Syria and Iraq, recently told The Independent. The concerns we have for Raqqa are even greater.
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Russia has said it will treat US warplanes operating in parts of Syria where its air forces are also present as targets amid a diplomatic row caused by the downing of a Syrian jet.

The countrys defence ministry said it would track US-led coalition aircraft with missile systems and military aircraft, but stopped short of saying it would shoot them down.

A hotline set up between Russia and the US to prevent mid-air collisions will also be suspended.

Recommended US shoots down Syrian government fighter jet

All kinds of airborne vehicles, including aircraft and UAVs of the international coalition detected to the west of the Euphrates River will be tracked by the Russian SAM systems as air targets, the Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement.

The warning comes after a US F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian army SU-22 jet on Sunday in the countryside southwest of Raqqa  the first such downing of a Syrian jet by the US since the start of the countrys civil war in 2011.

Washington said the jet had dropped bombs near US-backed forces but Damascus said the plane was downed while flying a mission against Isis militants.

Russias defence ministry said the suspension of its communication line with the Americans would begin immediately.

The US did not use its hotline with Russia ahead of the downing of the Syrian government warplane, said the ministry, which accused the US of a deliberate failure to make good on its commitments under the deconfliction deal.

In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Show all 30 1 /30 In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian family arrives at a checkpoint, manned by pro-government forces, at the al-Hawoz street roundabout, after leaving Aleppo's eastern neighbourhoods Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian woman, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, reacts as she stands with her children in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood, after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-regime fighters, gesture as they drive past resident fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood , after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-regime fighters, gesture as they drive past residents fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood, after regime troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian residents, fleeing violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood, arrive in Aleppo's Fardos neighbourhood Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian pro-regime fighter speaks with a child, as residents flee violence in the restive Bustan al-Qasr neighbourhood. Syrian rebels withdrew from six more neighbourhoods in their one-time bastion of east Aleppo in the face of advancing government troops AFP/Getty Images In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Smoke rises as seen from a governement-held area of Aleppo, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian soldiers targeting rebels-held areas in the eastern neighborhoods in Aleppo, Syria. According to media reports, the army is now holding on 99 percent of Aleppois eastern neighborhoods EPA In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian pro-government forces patrol Aleppo's eastern al-Salihin neighbourhood after troops retook the area from rebel fighters Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian soldiers rest following the battle at al-Sheik Saeed neighborhood in Aleppo, Syria EPA In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian pro-government fighter walking past closed shops in the Bab al-Nasr district of Aleppo's Old City. Once renowned for its bustling souks, grand citadel and historic gates, Aleppo's Old City has been rendered virtually unrecognisable by some of the worst violence of Syria's war Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria The crucial battle for Aleppo entered its 'final phase' after Syrian rebels retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances. The retreat leaves opposition fighters confined to just a handful of neighbourhoods in southeast Aleppo, the largest of them Sukkari and Mashhad Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian civilans arrive at a checkpoint, manned by pro-government forces, at the al-Hawoz street roundabout, after leaving Aleppo's eastern neighbourhoods. Syria's government has retaken at least 85 percent of east Aleppo, which fell to rebels in 2012, since beginning its operation Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian civilians flee the Sukkari neighbourhood towards safer rebel-held areas in southeastern Aleppo Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrians celebrate in the government-held Mogambo neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, after rebel fighters retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrians celebrate in the government-held Mogambo neighbourhood of the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, after rebel fighters retreated into a small pocket of their former bastion in the face of new army advances. The fall of Aleppo would be the worst rebel defeat since Syria's conflict began in 2011, and leave the government in control of the country's five major cities Getty In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian refugee Aliya inside the tent where she lives with her husband and ten children in a camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Syrian refugee women and children outside the entrance to their tents in the refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA Wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA Wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A Syrian refugee woman outside the entrance to the tent where her family live, in the refugee camp in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, close to the Syrian border PA wire In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria A vehicle drives past a mosque at night in Idlib, Syria. Picture taken with a long exposure Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Damaged buildings stand in the rebel-controlled town of Binnish in Idlib province, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria The night sky is seen through damaged windows in the rebel-controlled town of Binnish in Idlib province, Syria Reuters In Pictures: The crisis unfolding in Syria Damaged buildings stand in the rebel-controlled area of Maaret al-Numan in Idlib province, Syria Reuters

The shooting down of a Syrian Air Force jet in Syrias airspace is a cynical violation of Syrias sovereignty, the ministry said.

The US repeated combat operations under the guise of combating terrorism against the legitimate armed forces of a UN member-country are a flagrant violation of international law and an actual military aggression against the Syrian Arab Republic.

Theresa May appealed to Russia to continue the use of deconfliction measures over the skies of Syria to reduce the risk of misunderstandings in what is a crowded airspace.

Recommended Russia says it may have killed Isis leader in Raqqa air strike

Russia, which has been providing air cover for Syrias President, Bashar al-Assad, since 2015, has an agreement with the US aimed at preventing incidents involving either countrys warplanes engaged in operations in Syria.

Downing the jet was akin to helping the terrorists that the US is fighting against, Sergei Ryabkov, Russias deputy foreign minister, said.

A statement released by US Central Command on Sunday said the Syrian jet was immediately shot down... in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces.

The Coalitions mission is to defeat Isis in Iraq and Syria. The Coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend Coalition or partner forces from any threat, it added.

The Coalition presence in Syria addresses the imminent threat Isis in Syria poses globally. The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward Coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-Isis operations will not be tolerated.
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Bali is a popular destination for Western and Australian tourists. Attracting both budget backpackers and luxury honeymooners, its the most developed Indonesian island.

But according to a new report, visitors to the island are being duped and unknowingly eating dog meat that they think is chicken.

Animal protection organisation Animals Australia recently conducted an investigation into the matter, entitled Bali's hidden meat trade - and its disturbing connection to Australian tourism.

WARNING: Graphic images and video below

They found that every day, dogs - including pets - are being taken off the streets of Bali and killed, often brutally, to be sold as meat to tourists.

Dumped in bamboo crates or plastic rice sacks, terrified dogs await the nightly slaughter with legs tied and mouths taped shut, Animals Australia say.

They may languish like this for hours or days without food or water. One by one they will be brutally slaughtered in full view of their companions.

And business is booming. Year on year, seven times more dogs are slaughtered in Bali than in Chinas notorious Yulin Dog Eating Festival.

A Balinese dog meat seller (Animals Australia)

The full findings will be broadcast on the ABCs 7.30 program on Monday night.

Its reportedly street food vendors who are most likely to be selling dog meat as chicken, but about 70 restaurants in Bali have been found to sell dog meat too.

Often its sold with the word satay, and the sellers allow tourists to presume its chicken.

Bound dogs await slaughter (Animals Australia)

Tourists will walk down a street, they'll see a street store selling satay but what they are not realising is the letters RW on the store mean it is dog meat being served, Animals Australia campaign director Lyn White told the ABC.

Poisoned meat is entering the food chain.

The dog-meat trade breaches animal cruelty laws and food safety laws. That is a statement of fact, she said.

Dog meat sold tourists (Animals Australia)

Animals Australia used an undercover investigator to find out just how bad the dog trade in Bali was.

I began the investigation by pinpointing and getting to know the key players in Bali's completely unregulated dog-meat industry, the investigator said.

Eventually, they invited me to join them as their gangs stole, hunted, poisoned and killed dogs.

A dog screams whilst being captured (Animals Australia)

He spoke to a seller who admitted he was selling dog meat, but then proceeded to tell tourists it was chicken.

As an animal cruelty investigator, I have trained myself to cope with cruelty, but nothing prepared me for the brutal catching of dogs in the village, he said.

I focussed on my camera work but it was gut-wrenching to hear these dogs... screaming and wailing in terror and sorrow.

Not only are dogs being tortured for this trade, but those who eat the meat could also be at risk.

According to New South Wales Poisons Information Centre director Dr Andrew Dawson, the dog meat could be poisoned, which could lead to symptoms such as nausea, muscle aches, shortness of breath and may also cause organ and nerve damage.

If you are eating, for example, a curry and it was including bits of the animal stomach or the heart, then you would expect really high concentrations of cyanide... which could be fatal, Dr Dawson said.

A dog is beaten (Animals Australia)

Some people in Bali are fighting to end the trade though - the Balinese Animal Welfare Association, for example, works to protect the islands dogs.

Theyre currently looking after about 150 dogs, but its a long way off the estimated 70,000 that are slaughtered every year for the dog meat trade.
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British travellers hoping to combine the US and Cuba on the same trip face much tighter restrictions after Donald Trump announced he would reverse some measures introduced by Barack Obama.

In a speech in Miami, the President denounced what he called his predecessors terrible and misguided deal with the Castro regime.

Mr Obama had eased the economic embargo, which had been in force since the early 1960s, and encouraged people-to-people tourism to Cuba.

American citizens and foreign travellers on US territory could access dozens of new scheduled flights to the island.

Ordinary tourism was still not permitted. In practice, though, it was simple to comply with the rules by confirming the purpose was educational activities, including people-to-people exchanges open to everyone.

In the unlikely even that a traveller was challenged for proof, evidence of museum visits, a home stay in a casa particular or lessons in anything from Spanish to salsa was sufficient.

But Mr Trump said: It's hard to think of a policy that makes less sense than the prior administrations.

The previous administrations easing of restrictions on travel and trade does not help the Cuban people  they only enrich the Cuban regime. The profits from investment and tourism flow directly to the military.

He said he was cancelling the completely one-sided deal with Cuba.

The President has instructed the US Treasury to issue regulations to end individual people-to-people travel.

Only group trips will be permitted, and they must must maintain a full-time schedule of educational exchange activities that are intended to enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban peoples independence from Cuban authorities.

Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Show all 20 1 /20 Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A man rides his modified bicycle past a vintage American car in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A taxi sits parked by Ancon Beach waiting for returning bathers in Trinidad Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Afrocuban carnival group "Los componedores de batea" performing in the streets of La Habana Vieja Rex Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Pastel colours for an ice-cream place and a vintage American car in Cienfuegos after sunset Rex Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A man on the phone in a bookshop in Old Havana (Habana Vieja) selling books and displaying propaganda poster of the Cuban Revolution Rex Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Street Musicians in Santiago De Cuba Rex Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A man works to repair his classic American car after it broke down along the Prado, a wide avenue that runs from Parque Central to the Malecon seafront highway, in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Members of the 'Ladies in White,' a group founded by the partners and relatives of jailed dissidents that regularly protests against the Cuban government, demonstrate on the streets of Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Street vegetables vendor in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba The sun setting through the palm trees and creates long shadows on the pool deck at this resort in Cuba Varadero Rex Pictures of everyday life in Cuba General view of a street in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A girls plays on a street in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Girls walk past graffiti art along the Paseo de Marti, the wide boulevard that runs through the heart of the historic Old Havana neighborhood in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A woman smokes her Havana cigar Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba A man harvests tobacco leaves for drying at a tobacco drying house on a co-op plantation in Pinar del Rio Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Men play chess on a street in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Locals take part in a gay parade in Havana Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Scene of the Memories Paraiso Azul resort in Santa Maria Key Getty Images Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Beach on the Bay of Pigs, Zapata Peninsula Pictures of everyday life in Cuba Divers swimming above coral reef in Caribbean Sea Rex

The new sanctions stipulate: An employee, consultant or agent of the group must accompany each group to ensure that each traveller maintains a full-time schedule of educational exchange activities.

The rules apply to all persons subject to US jurisdiction, which includes foreign visitors planning to fly from America to Cuba.

British travellers hoping to use a flight across the Florida Strait will now need either to join an organised tour or provide evidence to support one of the other exemptions, such as charity work or journalism.

The move is likely to damage tourism to the US, by eliminating the option of two-centre trips combining Cuba with Florida,

UK visitors to Cuba have many alternative routes to the island, including non-stop Virgin Atlantic flights from Gatwick to Havana and Varadero, charter flights to a range of airports and connections via Paris or Madrid to the Cuban capital.

Mr Trump said the sanctions on travel to Cuba will remain in place until all political prisoners are freed, freedoms of assembly and expression are respected, all political parties are legalised, and free and internationally supervised elections are scheduled.

It is not clear if the President will apply the same sanctions to other countries with poor human-rights records.
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In the wake of two terror attacks, a devastating fire and political unrest in the last month alone, many may be wondering how safe it is to visit the UK capital right now.

Is London safe for tourists?

In 2017 there have been three major terrorism incidents in London, claiming 15 lives and injuring around 100 people.

On 22 March a terrorist incident took place in Westminster, when Khalid Masood drove a vehicle into several pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, before crashing into the Palace's perimeter fence. He then abandoned the vehicle and stabbed a police officer outside the Palace. About 40 people were injured and six were killed, including a police officer and the perpetrator.

Then on 3 June a van with three attackers inside was driven into pedestrians on London Bridge. The perpetrators left the vehicle and proceeded to stab people in pubs and restaurants around Borough Market before being shot dead by police. Eight people died and 48 people were injured during the attack.

And last night, on 18 June, a vehicle reportedly rammed into people walking out of a mosque in Finsbury Park, killing one and injuring 10.

 Finsbury Park attack - what we know so far

MI5 currently assesses the threat level of international terrorism in the UK as Severe. This is one below the highest threat level, and means an attack is highly likely. The only risk level higher is Critical  when an attack is expected imminently.

Although the recent attacks were devastating, statistically it is highly unlikely visitors will be killed in a terrorist incident. For comparison, around 1,800 people are killed in the UK each year from road traffic accidents, while the number of people killed in terror attacks in the UK totals 38 over the last 12 months.

Laura Citron, CEO at London & Partners, which runs VisitLondon.com, commented: Our thoughts and sympathies are with everyone whos been affected by recent events.

London is open to tourists from the UK and around the world. It remains a safe city to visit. There is an increased police and security presence around London and at the citys visitor attractions.

Londoners and visitors are resilient. While its impossible to predict the full impact on tourism we are confident that international visitors will stand by London. The latest data from Forward Keys, which is based on travel agent bookings, shows bookings for international arrivals this summer are up by 12 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Independent consumer travel expert Frank Brehany advises familiarising yourself with the city before you travel: "The 'new normal is that these horrific attacks have eaten their way into our daily lives and naturally cause us to think about how we travel or go to work. What is clear is that London, like other major cities has had to rethink how it protects the public going about their business and no doubt such protective measures will continue to develop.

Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack Show all 8 1 /8 Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack John Loughrey lays down flowers in Potters Fields Park, central London in honour of the London Bridge terror attack victims PA Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack People queue to lay flowers after a vigil for victims of Saturday's attack in London Bridge, at Potter's Field Park in London AP Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (centre) British Home Office Secretary, Amber Rudd (right) and British Shadow Labour Home Secretary (left) Diane Abbott arrive with flowers EPA Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack PA Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack Floral tributes left for victims of Saturdays London Bridge attack AP Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack People pay their respects, leaving floral tributes after a vigil for victims of Saturdays attack in London Bridge AP Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack People queue to honour those killed on Saturday. Police have arrested several people and are widening their investigation after the attack AP Crowds gather for vigil honouring victims of London Bridge attack Tributes lie outside City Hall in London EPA

"For those anxious about travelling to London on holiday, I would recommend the following: stay tuned to the news in the weeks before you intend to travel, so that you can become familiar with life and the issues of the capital (you can do this by tuning into London-based radio and TV stations); understand the nature of the areas you intend to visit (take yourself on a Google Maps walkabout, become familiar with the areas you will be staying in or where you intend to take in the sights); and check out information from the Metropolitan Police on safe travel and follow the guidance from the National Police Chiefs Council - Run, Hide, Tell."

Are there any 'no-go zones'?

Some have speculated that there are certain areas in London that should be avoided as they are too dangerous. This idea came to the fore in the wake of the London Bridge terror attack, when Trump supporter Zak Zales tweeted: In France and England there are neighbourhoods that are "no go zones". Even the police are scared to enter.

He was then roundly mocked on Twitter as people used an ironic BritishNoGoAreas hashtag to address this misconception.

There arent any official no-go zones in London and nowhere is off limits to visitors  although, just like in any other city, its worth being more careful if youre alone late at night and staying vigilant by being aware of whats going on around you.

Tips for staying safe

According to the Metropolitan Police: Crowded places, events, public transport, and iconic locations are some examples of locations that could be potential targets for terrorists. All of these are to be found in London.

This doesnt mean you should avoid all crowded places or tourist hotspots, but you should be aware of your surroundings. The Metropolitan Police advises: It is vital to remain vigilant, trust your instincts and report possible terrorist activity to the police.

Visit London gives the following advice: Make sure to report any unattended bags or belongings in public places.

The National Counter Terrorism Security Office advises what to do if you do see a suspicious item as a member of the public:

- Do not touch

- Try and identify an owner in the immediate area

- If you still think its suspicious, dont feel embarrassed or think anybody else will report it

- Report it to a member of staff, security, or if they are not available dial 999 (do not use your mobile phone in the immediate vicinity)

- Move away to a safe distance - even for a small item such as a briefcase move at least 100m away from the item starting from the centre and moving out

Visit London also gives the following advice to visitors to the capital: Watch the National Police Chiefs' Council's (NPCC) video with advice on what to do in the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack.

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Download the free CitizenAid app on Android or Apple, which gives advice on immediate actions in case of an incident.

The key message from all parties is to report anything that seems suspicious. MI5 issues the following advice: If you are aware of something suspicious, trust your instincts and report it to the police. What might seem insignificant on its own could actually provide a vital link in a wider investigation.

Tourists and residents alike should follow any instructions issued by local authorities and stay informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources.

What to do if you witness a terror attack

If you do ever witness an attack, police have issued advice about what to do.

First, run to safety if you can. Do not try to surrender or negotiate.

If escaping is not an option, try to hide. This is better than confrontation. Turn your phone to silent and make sure vibrate is also off. If at all possible, barricade yourself in.

When safe to do so, tell the police by calling 999 if in the UK, and if possible, warn others to stay away.

If you witness or have any information about suspicious behaviour, you can report it in confidence by calling the police on 0800 789 321 or completing an online form.

Police define suspect activity as anything that seems out of place, unusual or just doesnt seem to fit in with everyday life.
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A newborn baby has been awarded free flights for life after it was born prematurely mid-flight.

The baby boy was born yesterday on a Jet Airways flight travelling from Dammam in Saudi Arabia to Kochi. The flight was diverted to Mumbai after his mother went into premature labour. Thanks to the quick actions of cabin crew and a trained paramedic onboard, the baby was born healthy before the Boeing 737 landed.

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It marks the first mid-flight birth for the India-based airline, which responded by awarding the newborn a lifetime travel pass for free flights.

More than five infants were born on commercial flights in the last year, but they dont all come away with a golden ticket for free travel for the rest of their lives.

The last airline to award unconditional, complimentary flights for life to a baby born on their plane was AirAsia, when, in 2009, a passenger gave birth while on a two-hour flight from Penang to Kuching.

Most carriers are a little more stingy when it comes to air-born babies. Virgin Atlantic awarded a baby born onboard with free flights until the age of 21. Last year, a baby born on a Cebu Pacific Air flight from Dubai to Manila was given one million frequent flyer miles instead of an open grant of free flights.

Shona Owen, a baby born on a British Airways flight from Ghana to London in 1990, was given complimentary first class tickets with the airline for her 18th birthday. And, despite being named after the airline, Saw Jet star  a child born on a Jetstar Asia flight from Singapore to Rangoon in early 2016  was gifted only S$1,000 (565) worth of baby supplies by the airline.

Baby boogie: Mums attend special dance class with their little ones

Not all mid-flight births mean a pay day for the parents, however. In April, a mother went into labour while travelling with Turkish Airlines from Conakry, in Guinea, to Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso. The child, safely delivered onboard but premature at 28 weeks, received nothing more than a ride to the hospital, where both mother and child were declared healthy.
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Beyonce and Jay Z welcome twins was Mondays rare glimpse of good news, relayed in headlines around the world. The babies names and genders are still secret. We only know theyve been welcomed.

Modern celeb pregno-parlance requires all parents welcome babies, as if the newborns are arriving through Heathrow Terminal 1, greeted by banners hastily bought from Clintons Cards. We accepted without quibble the term flaunted a baby bump to mean left the house while knocked up but Im not sure about this baby-welcoming business, even if its Beyonce and Jay-Z. Welcome is a verb which evokes an idea of distance or reunification. This is quite the opposite of pregnancy, where a bundle of cells squat mercilessly in ones lower torso, with their head against your bladder, aggravating ones piles for nine long months.

However, if anyone is deserving of the flowery language of 21st-century fecundity it is Beyonce Knowles. The stars pregnancies take the form of a sort of global quasi-religious celebration of having a bun  or in this case two  in the oven.

Beyonce with child is, essentially, part Eighties Leigh Bowery performance art project, part-Star Trek Borg Queen regulating the transwarp hubs. When Beyonce is pregnant, we are all pregnant.

 Laverne Cox gives amazing description of meeting Beyonce

Giant pandas get up the duff more inconspicuously than Queen Bey. In your friendship group, Beyonce is that mate who wees on Clearblue One Step at midday and by quarter past one is tormenting Pizza Express servers with demands for pasteurised burrata, except instead of Pizza Express its the Grammy Awards and instead of burrata its a 24-strong dance troupe of diaphanous-frocked all-female worshippers beholding her tip-top fallopian tubes.

Of course, none of these sparingly humoured jokes about Beyonces womb will land smoothly with the Beyhive  the collective name for Beyonces internet fan base  because, well, nothing lands smoothly with the Beyhive.

Beyonce and the Pope have a self-perpetuated problem in common, in that they have swanned around publicly in swishy robes, insinuating they are in some sort of unique communion with God, the Spirit and Oneness for so long that now many addled sorts believe them. But while the Pope has the Pontifical Swiss Guard to protect him from detractors and overexcited admirers, Beyonce has a battalion of excitable teenagers on steaming smartphones, with names like Lemonade234. The Beyhive is willing to drag bitches to their death for insinuating Beyonce mimed at the Superbowl.

Over in the Beyhive, being dragged today, is poor Mathew Knowles, Beyonces 65-year-old father, who had the temerity to confirm late on Sunday that his daughters babies had been born. Theyre here! #beyonce #twins #jayz #happybirthday, he wrote on Twitter and Instagram.

But I dont understand? I hear some of you say. Isnt the sight of Beyonces dad being helpful, sweet and refreshingly non-starry about this life event a feelgood thing?

No, it is not, fools! Its quite the opposite. It is, according to the Beyhive, thoughtless and churlish and mean-spirited. It was not, it seems, his place to comment on his own daughter.

 Grammys 2017: Pregnant Beyonce delivers moving performance

I really hope you had Beyonces permission to announce this because otherwise you are so far out of line, one Instagram commenter wrote. Its Beyonces news and if she felt ready to announce the birth she would have done it by now.

The modern internet thrives with self-appointed moral arbiters het up on matters they know little about. Im as guilty of this as anyone else. Who is to say Beyonce didnt approve her fathers announcement? Or schedule it herself?

For what its worth, I loved that Mathew Knowles fired up a crappy Word Document template and typed Happy Birthday to the twins! Love, Granddad into the balloon-covered box. Its adorable. Nothing says proud, overexcited dad more than a slightly rubbish pre-made template littered in exclamation marks. And if Knowles was supposed to remain silent, then there is nothing more human than your family messing up.

However, Beyonce fans, like most ardent pop fans, are not much interested in plain old human reactions. They want fanfare and pomp and official photocalls from their pop hero. They want a surprise eight-part concept album dropped overnight on Tidal and a video montage with Beyonce dressed as St Francis of Assisi or perhaps Boudicca, newborn baby under each arm.

Personally, I care not how I heard of Beyonces twins; I just cant wait for Halloween as now Beyonces family has swollen there is even more scope for amazing costumes. Finding out what brilliant costume Beyonce and her children are forcing Jay-Z to wear every late October  Jean Michel Basquiat, Ken from Ken and Barbie  has become somewhat of a public holiday in my house.

The ironic thing about Beyonce and family is that they really dont take themselves that seriously. Its a shame that her fan base, especially at a happy time like this, cant relax a little too.
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What does terrorism look like? In this country we think perhaps first of bombs; of explosions that destroy buildings and lives, buses and tube carriages. We got used to bombs when the IRA was at its most active. After 7/7, we had to get to grips with the idea that explosives need not be planted, but could be detonated by a person willing to lose their own life in the act of taking others.

In the last year, we have seen cruder acts of terror too. Cars and vans, hired specifically to kill, have been used to devastating effect. Attackers have run amok with knives. In every case bodies have been strewn around; blood has spattered pavements; families and communities have been left grief-stricken.

But what does a terrorist look like? Thirty years ago we would probably have imagined a white Irishman, maybe with his face partially covered by a balaclava. Today, in the UK, our first thought on hearing about a terror attack might be to envisage a Muslim  of Asian heritage perhaps, a beard? Every age has its own bogeymen, each different but conforming in equal measure to a stereotype.

 Sadiq Khan meets Jeremy Corbyn on scene of Finsbury Park attack

What then to make of the latest attack to hit Britain this year? After Westminster, Manchester and Borough Market, Finsbury Park is the latest venue to play host to apparent terrorism. Once again, a vehicle has been weaponised, seemingly driven with intent into a crowd of innocent people. And yet the driver, now under arrest, is a white man; the victims of the latest tragedy had been attending prayers at a local mosque. Witnesses report that the man shouted I want to kill all Muslims.

As news of the horror broke, some reports raised the spectre of terror straight away; others were more cautious about the nature of what had happened. A few voices expressed suspicion  misplaced, it seems  that the media was deliberately avoiding the term because, while the scene might have resembled terrorism, the suspect didnt conform to our current vision of a terrorist.

In fact, with the police confirming that they are treating the incident as a terror attack, media reports quickly followed suit. Yet with a man in custody, there will be more challenges to come for journalists and commentators when legal proceedings seek to establish the facts of the case and the motivations of the driver.

After every act of terror we demand answers to the same old questions: what ideology drove the culprit; how was he (almost always he) radicalised; how could a person be so hate-filled that they would take innocent lives of people they knew nothing or little about? And for the most part we prefer simple solutions. The IRAs aims  and the context of its establishment  we could more or less understand; their methods were horrific but broadly conventional. Islamist extremists, motivated by a twisted vision of religion, seem also to have a shared conviction in an armed struggle  albeit one which is framed as a clash of civilisations. Their links, real or imagined, to Isis and other similar groups bolster the impression that they are part of something bigger than their own actions.

But when it comes to terror attacks that sit outside such established narratives we seem to struggle. Consider the murder last year of Jo Cox MP by Thomas Mair  a politically motivated act, influenced by an obsession with Nazism and distaste for multiculturalism. Or Anders Breivik, the mass killer who had a hatred of immigrants, especially Muslims, and of the social democracy which had permitted Norwegian society to become something he detested. Or Pavlo Lapshyn, convicted in 2013 following the murder of an elderly Muslim and the bombing of several mosques, was a white supremacist.

Finsbury Park attack Show all 14 1 /14 Finsbury Park attack Finsbury Park attack Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians in the Finsbury Park, killing one person and injuring eight Reuters Finsbury Park attack The incident is being treated as a potential terror attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder Reuters Finsbury Park attack Police cordon off a street in Finsbury Park AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack A man prays in the street after the attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack Men gather and pray together in the street in the aftermath of the attack AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Reuters Finsbury Park attack PA Finsbury Park attack Onlookers gather near a police cordon EPA Finsbury Park attack Forensic investigators arrive at the scene PA Finsbury Park attack A forensic tent stands next to a van PA Finsbury Park attack A police officer talks with residents AFP/Getty Images Finsbury Park attack Onlookers watch proceedings at the security cordon AFP/Getty Finsbury Park attack Local residents react at the scene AFP/Getty Images

Without obvious connections between these men, and with no overarching group to which they all pledged fealty, the crimes they commit tend to be presented as one-offs. The men are often loners; oddballs who had struggles with mental health or difficult family backgrounds.

Those descriptions may well be accurate of course; just as they might in relation to many of those who end up being labelled merely Islamists. After all, it is almost always a range of factors which lead a person to become a terrorist.

We should always be reluctant to reach simplistic conclusions about why someone becomes a violent extremist. But equally we must accept that there are dots to be joined between Mair, Breivik and Lapshyn  and perhaps the person who drove his van into a crowd of Muslims in Finsbury Park  just as there are between Islamists such as Salman Abedi, Khuram Butt and Michael Adebolajo. To confront ideologies of hate, we must first recognise them  whether they have developed from religious zeal or from nationalistic or racist creeds. And in the end we must dismantle them all.
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For years, Muslim communities and activists up and down the country have demanded that more be done to tackle Islamophobia, and for years our concerns were dismissed as nothing more than being overly sensitive to criticisms about their faith. Islamophobia was portrayed as a nonsense term: for some it was deemed logical and rational to fear Islam and Muslims, to portray Muslim communities as the other, the threat within. After last nights terrorist attack outside a Finsbury Park mosque in which Muslims leaving Ramadan prayers were mowed down by a van, we saw what can happen when Islamophobia is allowed to go unchecked.

This attack didn't occur in a vacuum. For years there has been a rise in anti-Islam sentiment. After the London Bridge attack, the London Mayors office released a statement that said there had been a 40 per cent increase in racist incidents compared with the same day last year, and a five-fold increase in the number of Islamophobic incidents. Similarly, Muslim leaders reported a worrying rise in Islamophobic incidents following the Manchester attack.

The question must be asked about the Finsbury Park incident, as it would be asked if the attack had been perpetrated by a Muslim: who radicalised this person? Was this person emboldened by an increasingly anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim agenda in the right-wing tabloid media? Did he feel his actions were justified because of the popularity of Donald Trump and Brexit? Ive already been told not to politicise this attack as if it werent inherently political.

Dont tell me today that Islamophobia doesnt exist, or that its been overplayed by Muslims playing the victim. If anything, Muslims are wary of reporting hate crimes against their communities, fearing that their concerns will not be taken seriously or that even if they are it will not result in a successful prosecution.

 Finsbury Park attack - how the UK reacted

Women like my own mother are anxious of going outside alone, with news regularly coming in of hijabs being pulled off and women being spat at. Today we saw people exercising the very British right of religious freedom came under attack.

Its about time the Government did more to tackle the dangers posed by those who whip up Islamophobic sentiment that lead to attacks like these. For too long we have allowed a double standard to occur in which this type of extremism is seen as the less dangerous counterpart to Islamic extremism, even though both are driven by the same motivations and desires, a worldview that hates diversity and believes in asserting its own supremacy.

Following Islamist terrorist attacks, hate preachers and their ideology are interrogated, and today it can be no different.

 Eyewitness to Finsbury Park attack describes fear and anger

From America to Britain, attacks against Muslims are on the rise and if we can work together across borders to tackle the rise of extremism, Id like to know why governments cant work across borders to tackle the terrorist threat posed by Islamophobic extremists. It is both dangerous and very real.

Today isnt just a day for bold statements: many Muslims wish to see bold action. Today is a day in which those who played a part in the rise of Islamophobia, who portrayed Muslims as the enemy within, should hold their heads in shame.
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Emergency services are on standby after the Government issued a level three amber heat alert as temperatures are set to increase.

Sunday saw a high of 32C, the hottest day of the year so far.

Temperatures are due to peak at 34C in certain parts of the UK - hotter than the Bahamas - before cooling down at least a few degrees by next weekend.

Public Health England issued the amber heat alert until Wednesday, one tier below level four, a national emergency and which would confirm the UK is in the midst of a heat wave.

As the ill, elderly and vulnerable are more at risk during very hot temperatures, NHS England advises people to check up on those who are less able to take care of themselves. The Met and the NHS also encourages people to stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, wear sun cream and always carry a bottle of water.

So-called "seasonal deaths" start to happen during temperatures above 25C, according to Public Heath England.

After a 10-day heatwave in 2003, there were around 2,000 heat-related deaths, and a further 680 fatalities during hot weather in 2006.

Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Show all 9 1 /9 Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms UK storms A lightning strike captured in Colne, Lancashire, looking towards Pendle Hill by Patrick Rimdzevicius as storms hit northern parts of England on 1 July Patrick Rimdzevicius Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms UK storms Lightning over the Angel of the North in a heavy storm as Britain has endured the hottest July day on record PA Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms UK storms A lightning storm hits Blyth on the Northumberland coast early on 2 July PA Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire People described the hail as the size of golf balls. Photo:Linda Scott Linda Scott Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire Gardens were turned completely white. Photo: Linda Scott Linda Scott Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire Hail punched through a plastic roof in the dining room of The Bolton Arms pub in Downholme. Stephen Ross Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire Hail punched through a plastic roof in the dining room of The Bolton Arms pub in Downholme. Stephen Ross Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire Linda Scott photographed mist rising from hail-covered fields in the Yorkshire Dales after the storm Linda Scott Hottest day of the year sparks extreme thunderstorms Hailstorm hits Yorkshire The storm as it passed over Swaledale. Photo: Linda Scott Linda Scott

The Met Office has pointed to a hot air mass moving from Spain and France to the UK for the rise in temperatures.

As the hot air hovers across the English Channel, the Met has predicted there is a 20 per cent chance it will travel to England.

If the heat wave hits the UKs shoreline, it is not predicted to last long and would likely be over within a day

The Met Office forecast for June to August said: "There is a clear shift towards warmer-than-average conditions for June-August.

"Sea surface temperatures close to the UK are above normal, increasing the chances of higher-than-average-temperatures through the period.

"There is a normal chance of drier-than-average conditions, with the chances of above and below-average rainfall fairly balanced."
Former Attorney General Maire Whelan after she was appointed as a Court of Appeal judge by President Michael D Higgins at Aras an Uachtarain in Dublin.

The Taoiseach has said he stands over the process used to appoint f ormer attorney general Maire Whelan as a Court of Appeal judge.

Hours after the appointment was confirmed by President Michael D Higgins, Leo Varadkar rejected any suggestion the controversy had made a general election more likely.

The furore has raised questions on the stability of the confidence and supply arrangement between Fianna Fail and Mr Varadkar's Fine Gael-led minority government.

Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein are among those that have questioned the way ministers filled the job, asking if appropriate procedures were followed and whether other high court judges were considered for the role.

Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin last week told the Dail the process "stinks".

The appointment was agreed by cabinet last Tuesday - a day before Mr Varadkar replaced Enda Kenny as taoiseach.

Asked about the issue after his meeting with UK Prime Minister Theresa May in London, Mr Varadkar said:

"I don't think we're on the brink of a general election. A call for a general election is not evident in Ireland for lots of different reasons."

He added: "I certainly would not have liked my first week in office to have been affected by controversy over a judicial appointment, I wanted the focus to be on the new cabinet, policy, the priority list I have for them, the important meetings I had with the leaders of the main parties in Northern Ireland yesterday and the important meeting I'm having today with the prime minister.

"It's not something I would like to have occurred in my first week in office as taoiseach, but equally it's not something I'm going to wash my hands of.

"I was at the cabinet table when that decision was made, and therefore I stand over it. And I have looked into it since then. What I can say is that Maire Whelan was appointed by the president today as a judge at the court of appeal. She's somebody who is uniquely qualified for the office which she has been appointed to. She's been attorney general for six years and is across so many different important legal questions.

"Having looked into it, I can say that what was done was lawful and according to the constitution and according to the law. It is precedented and there have been precedents of appointments similar to this in the past. Proper procedure was followed. The Ministry of Justice (then Francis Fitzgerald) made a recommendation to the cabinet. As is the normal process and procedure, one name was brought to the cabinet for approval. It's never the case that the cabinet discusses a shortlist or is informed of who may have applied for a position and didn't get it.

"This is a good appointment, it's appropriate and it's lawful."

Politicians are set to clash over the issue in the Dail on Tuesday.

Ms Whelan's appointment was one of three judicial roles confirmed by President Higgins on Monday.

Eileen Creedon and Charles Meenan were also appointed High Court judges at a ceremony at Aras an Uachtarain that was attended by Mr Varadkar and current attorney general Seamus Woulfe.
Novelist Sebastian Barry has won the prestigious Walter Scott literary prize for a second time.

The Irish author first won the 25,000 award in 2012 and has claimed it again this year with his novel Days Without End.

First awarded in 2010, the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction is named after the inventor of the historical fiction genre.

It is open to books published in the previous year in the UK, Ireland or the Commonwealth - and previous winners include Hilary Mantel, Andrea Levy and Robert Harris.

Reflecting the subtitle of Scott's famous work Waverley: Tis Sixty Years Since, the majority of the shortlisted books' storylines must have taken place at least 60 years ago.

Mr Barry said: " It's difficult to itemise my simple childish joy at receiving this prize; that the judges did all this work to make a 61-year-old man feel 12 again."

He added: "It seems to me that the prize itself has not only boosted and bolstered the historical novel, but also has begun to redefine it."

Days Without End tells the story of two young men during the founding of modern America in the mid-19th century.

It also won the Costa Book Prize this year, the second time Mr Barry has collected the award.

The Walter Scott judging panel said: " Our decision to award Sebastian Barry's Days Without End was one of the hardest the Walter Scott Prize has ever had to make.

"With all seven books on the shortlist having strong supporters on the judging panel who championed their cause in a protracted and passionate debate about the nature and purpose of historical fiction, the very books themselves seemed to fight tooth and nail for the accolade.

"Eventually, Days Without End took the lead, for the glorious and unusual story; the seamlessly interwoven period research; and above all for the unfaltering power and authenticity of the narrative voice, a voice no reader is likely to forget.

Video of the Day

"We commend all the authors of this year's shortlist for their wonderful and important books. What a hard choice it was. But we are delighted to declare Days Without End the winner of the eighth Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction - and Sebastian Barry the first writer to win the Prize twice."
Britain's Secretary of State for Brexit David Davis walks out of the Cabinet office, in Westminster, central London, Britain, June 9, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

Brexit Secretary David Davis starts negotiations in Brussels today that will set the terms on which Britain leaves the European Union and determine its relationship with the continent for generations to come.

What happens today?

Almost a year to the day since Britons shocked themselves and their neighbours by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main trading partner, and nearly three months since Prime Minister Theresa May locked them into a two-year countdown to Brexit in March 2019, almost nothing about the future is clear. Negotiators Davis and Barnier meet at 11 a.m (9am GMT) to set the terms of Brexit.

Davis, who unlike May has long campaigned to leave the EU, will meet chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, a former French minister, at the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters. They are due to give a joint news conference after talks among their teams lasting seven hours.

Will anything be decided today?

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

"Now, the hard work begins," Davis said, adding he wanted a deal that worked for both sides.

"These talks will be difficult at points, but we will be approaching them in a constructive way."

Barnier, a keen mountaineer, spent the weekend in his native Alps "to draw the strength and energy needed" ahead of Brexit talks.

What are the main concerns/priorities today?

With discontent in europhile Scotland and troubled Northern Ireland, which faces a new EU border across the divided island, Brexit poses new threats to the integrity of the United Kingdom.

It will test the ingenuity of thousands of public servants racing against the clock to untangle 44 years of EU membership before Britain is out, 649 days from now, on March 30, 2019. For the officials sitting down on Monday, at least on the EU side, a major worry is Britain crashing out into a limbo, with no deal.

For that reason, Brussels wants as a priority to guarantee rights for 3 million EU citizens in Britain and be paid tens of billions of euros it says London will owe on its departure.

With a further million British expatriates in the EU, May too wants a deal on citizens' rights, though the two sides are some way apart. Agreeing to pay a "Brexit bill" may be more inflammatory.

What are Brussels thinking right now?

Brussels is also resisting British demands for immediate talks on a future free trade arrangement. The EU insists that should wait until an outline agreement on divorce terms, ideally by the end of this year. In any case, EU officials say, London no longer seems sure of what trade arrangements it will ask for.

But Union leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to follow.

What is Britain's Foreign Minister thinking?

British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson said Brexit talks set to begin on Monday should aim to prepare the ground for a "deep and special partnership" that London wants with the European Union.

"The most important thing I think now is for us to look to the horizon ... think about the future, and think about the new partnership, the deep and special partnership that we want to build with our friends," Johnson told reporters ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.

Brexit Secretary David Davis starts negotiations in Brussels later on Monday that will set the terms on which Britain leaves the EU and determine its relationship with the continent for generations to come.

How are the markets?

Sterling held steady on Monday ahead of the start of Brexit negotiations, with investors also awaiting comments from a top Federal Reserve official to see whether the U.S. dollar's recent rise can be sustained.

The British pound was little changed at $1.2777. It hardly budged on news that a van ploughed into worshippers leaving a London mosque on Monday, killing at least one person and injuring several.

Sterling has been through a turbulent month, sinking to a near two-month low of $1.2636 on June 9 on the British election shock, but rallying last week as the Bank of England came close to hiking rates after a split vote in its monetary policy committee.

It is expected to remain vulnerable to bouts of volatility in coming months as negotiations proceed on Britain's divorce from European Union.

Investors are focusing on the UK government's stance in the talks, after the ruling Conservative party's setback in this month's election deepened uncertainty over both Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plans and her political future.

... and the latest from Ireland?

Up to 400m in State and EU supports will be needed annually to allow Irish businesses to mitigate the fallout from a hard Brexit, the country's biggest business body has argued.

Ibec said funds must be provided to support firms in sectors exposed to the UK to innovate, diversify into new markets, train staff and invest for a future with the United Kingdom outside of the European Union.

In a policy document published today to mark the first day of formal Brexit negotiations, the business group warned that a temporary form of EU State aid needs to be provided to support companies, while an EU fund designed to help people who have lost their jobs due to globalisation needs to be reformed to help businesses deal with the economic fallout from Brexit.

Ibec director general Danny McCoy said the closest possible relationship between the UK and EU is in everyone's interest.

"If the UK crashes out of Europe, Ireland will need all the policy levers available to respond. State aid will be needed to support companies through any period of adjustment, and tax and labour market policy will need to ensure Ireland remains internationally competitive," Mr McCoy said.

"A post-Brexit EU must take full advantage of Europe's collective strength and influence, but not limit the capacity of member states to respond quickly to external shocks."
Prime Minister Theresa May with new Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during a joint press conference following a meeting at 10 Downing Street, London Credit: Philip Toscano/PA Wire

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May said that she wanted the border between the United Kingdom and the European Union to be as seamless as possible after Brexit.

The border between Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, and the Republic of Ireland, an EU member, will become the only land border between the UK and the EU after Britain exits the bloc in March 2019.

Speaking at a joint news conference with May, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that the border should be "invisible".

May is currently seeking backing from the DUP, a Northern Irish party, for her minority Conservative government after she lost her parliamentary majority in a June 8 election.

Varadkar told the news conference that both the British and Irish governments needed to be impartial actors in relation to Northern Ireland's stalled power-sharing arrangements between parties that want the province to remain in the UK and parties that want it to become part of the Republic.

The chief Brexit negotiators of the European Union and Britain began talks on Monday morning by stressing the need to quickly tackle uncertainties in the process and underlining their constructive attitude to reach a deal that is good for all.

The European Union's Michel Barnier said he hoped the talks, starting almost a year to the day after a British referendum vote to leave the EU, would establish a timetable for the negotiations.

"We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit - first for citizens but also for the beneficiaries of the EU policies and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland," Barnier told reporters at the start of the talks.

Expand Expand Previous Next Close EU Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier, right, and British Secretary of State David Davis prepare to shake hands as they arrive at EU headquarters in Brussels on Monday, June 19, 2017 (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert) Flags are arranged at the EU headquarters as Britain and the EU launch Brexit talks in Brussels, June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir / Facebook

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"I hope that today we can identify priorities and a timetable that would allow me to report to the European Council later this week that we had a constructive opening of negotiations," he said.

Britain's Brexit minister David Davis said London wanted a deep and special relationship with the EU after the divorce and that he would conduct the talks in a constructive tone.

"Theres more that unites us than divides us, so while there will undoubtedly be challenging times ahead of us in the negotiations, we will do all that we can to ensure that we deliver a deal that works in the best interests of all citizens," Davis said.

"To that end we are starting this negotiation in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends for the future," he said.

Expand Expand Previous Next Close A man checks his phone outside the EU headquarters as Britain and the EU launch Brexit talks in Brussels, June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir Flags are arranged at the EU headquarters as Britain and the EU launch Brexit talks in Brussels, June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir / Facebook

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Whatsapp A man checks his phone outside the EU headquarters as Britain and the EU launch Brexit talks in Brussels, June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir

Almost a year to the day since Britons shocked themselves and their neighbours by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main trading partner, and nearly three months since Prime Minister Theresa May locked them into a two-year countdown to Brexit in March 2019, almost nothing about the future is clear.

Even May's own immediate political survival is in doubt, 10 days after she lost her majority in an election.

Davis, who unlike May has long campaigned to leave the EU, will meet chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, a former French minister, at the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters at 11 a.m. (0900 GMT). They are due to give a joint news conference after talks among their teams lasting seven hours.

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

"Now, the hard work begins," Davis said, adding he wanted a deal that worked for both sides.

"These talks will be difficult at points, but we will be approaching them in a constructive way."

Barnier, a keen mountaineer, spent the weekend in his native Alps "to draw the strength and energy needed" ahead of Brexit talks.

Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe that May's government may at last coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.

Sounding conciliatory, Britain's Boris Johnson said as he arrived at a meeting with fellow EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg that he looked forward to "a happy revolution" in relations that would be good for Britain and the rest of Europe.

"The most important thing I think now is for us to ... think about the new partnership, the deep and special partnership that we want to build with our friends," said Johnson, who campaigned in last year's referendum to leave the EU.

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May's election debacle has revived feuding over Europe among Conservatives that her predecessor David Cameron hoped to end by calling the referendum and leaves EU leaders unclear on her plan for a "global Britain" which most of them regard as pure folly.

While "Brexiteers" have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties.

With discontent in europhile Scotland and troubled Northern Ireland, which faces a new EU border across the divided island, Brexit poses new threats to the integrity of the United Kingdom.

It will test the ingenuity of thousands of public servants racing against the clock to untangle 44 years of EU membership before Britain is out, 649 days from now, on March 30, 2019. For the officials sitting down on Monday, at least on the EU side, a major worry is Britain crashing out into a limbo, with no deal.

For that reason, Brussels wants as a priority to guarantee rights for 3 million EU citizens in Britain and be paid tens of billions of euros it says London will owe on its departure.

With a further million British expatriates in the EU, May too wants a deal on citizens' rights, though the two sides are some way apart. Agreeing to pay a "Brexit bill" may be more inflammatory.

Brussels is also resisting British demands for immediate talks on a future free trade arrangement. The EU insists that should wait until an outline agreement on divorce terms, ideally by the end of this year. In any case, EU officials say, London no longer seems sure of what trade arrangements it will ask for.

But Union leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to follow.

When 52pc of British voters opted for Brexit, some feared for the survival of a Union battered by the euro crisis and divided in its response to chaotic immigration. The election of the fervently europhile Macron, and his party's sweep of the French parliament on Sunday, has revived optimism in Brussels.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she wanted a "good agreement" for both Britain and the European Union in the Brexit negotiations.

"For me, it is above all about the EU27 proceeding together and listening carefully to Britain's wishes and expectations," Merkel told a news conference after meeting Romanian President Klaus Iohannis.

"And it is also about representing our own interests and progressing towards a good agreement. But it is too early to speculate about the details. I want us to reach a good agreement and this should be in the interests of both sides," she added.
Brexit Secretary David Davis exchanging mountaineering gifts with European Commission's chief negotiator Michel Barnier at the commission's Berlaymont headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. Picture: PA Wire

Trade talks between the UK and European Union will not begin until October at the earliest as Brexit negotiations will follow the timetable set out by Brussels in a blow to David Davis.

The Brexit Secretary had wanted the talks to take place in parallel with negotiations on the divorce from Brussels but has now accepted the timetable set out by the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier.

Mr Davis said he was optimistic about the process and the British appeared upbeat about the prospects of trade talks beginning before the final details of divorce proceedings had been agreed.

Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to Polish counterpart Beata Szydlo about the negotiations, telling her she wanted a "deep and special partnership that supports a strong and prosperous EU" and stressing her commitment to a deal on the rights of EU citizens.

European Commission official Mr Barnier warned the UK faced "substantial" consequences as a result of Brexit but insisted it was "not about punishment" or revenge.

And in a reference to the Prime Minister's negotiating mantra, he said: "For both the European Union and the United Kingdom, a fair deal is possible and far better than no deal."

Expand Close EU Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier, right, and British Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis attend a media conference at EU headquarters in Brussels on Monday, June 19, 2017. Brexit negotiators discussed on Monday Britain's financial obligations to the European Union as the long, complicated and potentially perilous process of the U.K. leaving the bloc finally gets underway. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo) / Facebook

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Whatsapp EU Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier, right, and British Secretary of State for Exiting the EU David Davis attend a media conference at EU headquarters in Brussels on Monday, June 19, 2017. Brexit negotiators discussed on Monday Britain's financial obligations to the European Union as the long, complicated and potentially perilous process of the U.K. leaving the bloc finally gets underway. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)

After the first day of the crucial negotiations which have the potential to shape the UK's economic and political future for a generation, it was agreed that working groups of officials would aim to make progress on the issues of citizens' rights, the UK's financial settlement, the so-called divorce bill, and other issues to do with separation.

The most senior officials on either side will lead work on efforts to resolve the problem of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, a situation Mr Barnier acknowledged was "politically sensitive" at a time when the Tory government was seeking the support of the Democratic Unionist Party to prop up Mrs May's minority government.

Only when "sufficient, concrete progress" on the first phase has been made will Mr Barnier recommend to the European Council that the negotiations can enter the next stage, taking in the future trading relationship, with that recommendation possibly coming at October's summit of EU leaders.

After seven hours of talks in Brussels, Mr Davis, who had previously promised the "row of the summer" over the timetable for the negotiations, remained upbeat.

Both sides acknowledged the clock was ticking, with the date for the UK's departure from the EU fixed for March 2019.

Mr Davis denied suggestions the agreed timetable showed Britain's "weakness" and insisted it is "completely consistent" with the Government's aim of parallel trade and exit talks.

"It's not when it starts it's how it finishes that matters," he said.

"The UK has been crystal clear in our approach to the negotiations, the withdrawal process cannot be concluded without the future relationship also being taken into account.

"They should be agreed alongside each other, this is completely consistent with the Council's guidelines which state nothing is agreed until everything is agreed."

Mr Davis also brushed off the idea Britain's negotiating stance could change given political instability in the UK.

The Brexit Secretary said: "The position hasn't changed."

Asked if he had given any ground to Britain, Mr Barnier said: "I am not in a frame of mind to make concessions, or ask for concessions.

"It's not about punishment, it is not about revenge.

"Basically, we are implementing the decision taken by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, and unravel 43 years of patiently-built relations."

He added: "The United Kingdom has decided to leave the European Union, it is not the other way around.

"The United Kingdom is going to leave the European Union, single market and the customs union, not the other way around.

"So, we each have to assume our responsibility and the consequences of our decisions.

"And the consequences are substantial."

In a sign of the progress that has been made, Mr Davis said the Prime Minister would brief fellow EU leaders at a summit on Thursday on the UK's approach to the rights of expatriate citizens, which will be set out in detail in a paper on Monday.

In a sign of his approach, Mr Davis quoted Sir Winston Churchill's dictum that "the pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty".

He added: "Today marks the start of a journey, for the United Kingdom and for the European Union.

"There is a long way to go, but we are off to a promising start. We have taken the first, critical steps together.

"Now, we have a shared responsibility to deliver quick and substantive progress."

Mr Barnier and Mr Davis will meet every four weeks over the coming months, bringing their teams together for a matter of days each time.

Different working groups will negotiate on the issues of expat rights, the financial settlement and other separation issues, while the Irish border will be the subject of a "dialogue" between the senior civil servant at the Department for Exiting the European Union, Olly Robbins, and Mr Barnier's deputy Sabine Weyand.

Terms of reference agreed by both sides envisage four rounds of talks on the first phase of discussions, in the weeks starting July 17, August 28, September 18 and October 9, implying trade talks are unlikely to open until after the European Council summit of October 18/19.

Both English and French will be used as working languages in negotiations and working documents, and the two sides have agreed a set of principles on the openness of their talks.

The terms of reference state "for both parties the default is transparency" and that it is for the side providing any information to state whether it should remain secret.

"Where possible, both parties will seek to agree public statements relating to negotiating rounds," the document stated.

The Brexit negotiations started as International Trade Secretary Liam Fox met the US trade representative Robert Lighthizer In Washington DC.

The two men discussed the possibility of laying the groundwork for a new potential trade agreement between the UK and US after Brexit.

Dr Fox said: "Our valuable talks underlined the shared interest in forging a closer trade and economic relationship including making progress on policy coordination, regulatory issues and expanding trade and investment between our economies.

"As our largest single trading partner, we have a strong foundation to build on as we start preparation on joint work to explore a future ambitious trade agreement once the UK has left the EU."

Mr Lighthizer said: "As the United States' fifth largest export market, the United Kingdom is an invaluable trading partner.

"As UK negotiations with the European Union begin, I look forward to working with Dr Fox and the United States Congress to lay the groundwork for our future trade relationship, including exploring the possibility of a new US-UK trade agreement.

"In the meantime, the United States is committed to continuing discussions for improving trade and investment and coordinating on addressing global excess capacity issues."
The rush for Irish citizenship and passports in the UK reached a record high on the day British Prime Minister Theresa May signed the document paving the way for Britain's exit from the European Union.

Formal Brexit talks between the UK and the EU are due to commence today.

Figures from the Department of Foreign Affairs show that on March 28, the day Mrs May signed the document triggering Article 50, the Irish Embassy in London was snowed under with Irish passport applications from those living in the UK with Irish heritage.

In figures released in response to a Freedom of Information request, the embassy received a record total for the year at 770 as staff struggled to cope with demand.

Backlog

Days before, on March 21, a senior embassy official, Donal O'Connell, stated in an email that 'urgent sanction' was required from HQ for paid overtime to deal with the backlog, pointing out the embassy had "over 1,700 unopened emails requiring attention".

However, in the days that followed, Brexit dominated public life in the UK as anticipation built towards the triggering of Article 50 and the final week of March contained the three busiest days in recent times at the passport office at the Irish embassy.

On March 28, 722 passport applications were received by the embassy and a further 578 applications were received on March 30 - the day after Mrs May declared to parliament that there "can be no turning back" from the formal move of Britain's divorce from the UK.

Other milestones towards Brexit also coincided with daily spikes in applications for Irish passports in the first quarter.

Demand for Irish passports from people with Irish heritage in the UK soared by 94pc in March compared to the same month last year.

The surge in Irish passports from those living here has prompted the Irish Government to look to hire consultants to forecast the likely demand as the country's exit from the EU nears.

However, the 8,297 passports sought during the month of March may represent only a trickle compared to when Brexit comes into force.

It has been estimated that there are 6.7 million people in the UK who are eligible to apply for an Irish passport.

Highlighting the impact Mrs May's pronouncements had on demand for Irish passports, January 16 was also the fifth busiest day for passport applications with 547 applications, as news leaked of Mrs May's hard Brexit in a landmark speech on January 17.

The demand for Irish passports in Northern Ireland in the first quarter has followed a similar pattern.

As speculation mounted about the triggering of Article 50 on March 23, 833 applications were received - the highest daily total in the first three months.

This was followed by 796 applications on January 16 and 725 on March 28.
EU Chief Brexit Negotiator Michel Barnier, right, and British Secretary of State David Davis prepare to shake hands as they arrive at EU headquarters in Brussels on Monday, June 19, 2017 (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

Negotiations on the terms of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union are finally getting under way.

* Who's there?

Lead negotiators, David Davis and Michel Barnier, posed for the cameras on Monday morning (June 19 as planned) before several hours of initial discussions.

David Davis

The UK side is led by Brexit Secretary David Davis, the self-described "charming bastard" and committed Leaver who is spearheading the British negotiating effort.

Davis was appointed Secretary of State for exiting the EU on July 13, 2016, shortly after the shock result of the Brexit referendum.

From an undergrad of molecular science and computing, Davis then achieved a masters in business (London Business School) and later took the advanced business programme at Harvard.

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Before becoming an MP, Davis worked at Tate & Lyle, rising to become a senior executive in his 15 years with the firm.

On the opposite side is Michel Barnier, the French former foreign minister who is the European Commission's chief negotiator. They will each be accompanied by a team of senior officials.

Married with three children, Davis likes to write in his limited spare time - and enjoys walking in the countryside and mountaineering.

Michel Barnier

Sitting opposite Davis is the man who the Telegraph described in 2010 as the most dangerous man in Europe .

Michel Barnier, was appointed Chief Negotiator over the Task Force for the Preparation and Conduct of the Negotiations with the UK since October 1, 2016.

Barnier first got involved in politics aged 15 as a young Gaullist but came to national prominence in 1986 when he won Albertville's bid to host the 1992 Winter Olympics in Savoy.

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Diplomats have said he is "far from a soul mate for Britain" and is hostile to the Anglo-Saxon free market model of capitalism.

There have been suggestions that the arch-federalist still resents Britain after losing his job after the French government lost a referendum on the European Constitution. He served as France's foreign minister for just a year between 2004 and 2005.

When he held the role of EU commissioner for internal services between 2010 and 2014, he caused tensions with British ministers with calls for more financial regulation.

Speaking after the referendum vote, Mr Barnier said that shouldn't be "prisoner to the British question" during Brexit negotiations.

He has insisted that Britain will have to accept freedom of movement - "without exception or nuance" if it wants to retain access to the single market.

Married with three children, keen mountaineer Barnier spent the weekend in his native Alps "to draw the strength and energy needed" ahead of Brexit talks.

Other officials

The Brexit Secretary was flanked at the negotiating table by Olly Robbins, the senior civil servant at the Department for Exiting the European Union, and Sir Tim Barrow, the UK's ambassador to the EU.

Other officials at the table included:

* Glynn Williams: director general at the Home Office

* Mark Bowman: director general, international finance at HM Treasury

* Simon Case: director general, UK-EU partnership team

* Alex Ellis - director general at the Department for Exiting the European Unio

* Jane Walker - aide to David Davis

* Christian Jones - press secretary to David Davis

* What are they discussing?

Both sides agree a top priority is sorting out the rights of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK and the 1.2 million British expats in the EU.

Furthermore, they want a reciprocal agreement although the Europeans say the British side does not appear to appreciate just what that involves.

Other issues that have to be sorted include the status of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Not least, there is the "divorce bill". The EU side has been suggesting it will be looking for a settlement of around 50 billion in respect of the UK's outstanding liabilities. British ministers insist the final sum will not be anything like that. Expect plenty of wrangling to come.

Michel Barnier

We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit: first for citizens but also for beneficiaries of EU policies and the impact on borders  in particular Ireland, said Barnier.

I hope today we can identify priorities and the timetable that would allow me to report to the European council later this week that we had a constructive start.

David Davis

It is at testing times like these that we are reminded of the values and resolve that we share with our closest allies in Europe, said Davis. There is more that unites us than divides us.

We are starting with a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special relationship, he added.
Fianna Fails Agriculture Spokesperson Charlie McConalogue has said his partys proposal to cap farm payments at 60,000 does not discriminate against progressive farmers.

Speaking on RTEs Countrywide programme he said one of the key aims of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is that there is a fair standard of living for those in rural communities.

McConalogue stressed that given the pressures on the overall CAP budget it important that it is seen to be fair and that it does support farmers.

Not in the way that we see in the most recent allocation with beef processors that are getting hundreds of thousands and large stud farms which are getting hundreds and hundreds of thousands, he said.

In his view and in Fianna Fails view it is important that that is done fairly and said lowering the cap on payments to 60,000 would increase the overall legitimacy of CAP budget.

According to McConalogue, 99pc of farmers are currently under the threshold and the move would only affect 1pc of farmers.

He also claimed that the saving would be 80m per year and said it should be spent on measures to encourage younger people to take up farming.

Farmers depend on cheques from Brussels to make up three-quarters of income.

The average direct payment per farm was nearly 18,000 last year - which was 75pc of farm income on average and almost 100pc of the income on cattle and sheep farms.

EU farm payments: The biggest earners revealed

Larry Goodman and his family, who through two farms - Branganstown and Glydee - received 217,153 and 214,275 in EU payments in 2016 - giving them a combined income of 430,000 in EU farm subsidies.

Mr Goodman has the largest EU farm payment by far of any individual in Ireland.

His home farm at Castlebellingham, Co Louth, is the 850-acre Branganstown enterprise. However, he also owns in excess of 1,100 acres in his Glydee farm at Kilsaren.

Mr Goodman is believed to own a further 350 acres as well as the privately owned ABP meat processing group.

Other Irish farmers who receive significant money in EU payments included Walter Furlong of Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, at 429,824. Mr Furlong has built up a large grain production outfit with his business partner Kevin Cooney. Between them they own the Cooney & Furlong Grain Company.

O'Shea farms, owned by Richard, Thomas, Joseph and Seamus O'Shea in Co Kilkenny, received 244,693.61.

Terence Coughlan, a tillage farmer outside Fermoy, tops the list of recipients in Co Cork. It is understood that he farms in the region of 2,000 acres and he received 227,469.

However, the individuals' EU payments are surpassed by the 6m Teagasc receives and the 3.9m Commercial Mushroom PRS Co-op receives. Bord Bia received 2.28m last year, while Ornua received 1.6m.

In a recent FarmIreland survey, 75pc of farmers said they are unhappy with the current farm payment system and that payments are unfairly distributed, with many saying that they would prefer a fair price for their produce instead of subsidies.
Northern Irish beef is gaining in competitiveness as the euro continues to trade strongly against sterling during 2017 to date and following the UK General Election.

The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) in Northern Ireland has noted that one such advantage is that a weaker sterling makes Northern Irish, and UK, beef more competitive on key EU markets while it also increases the cost of imports from other Eurozone countries, in particular beef from the Republic of Ireland.

It says during 2016 92pc of all UK beef and veal imports originated in the EU and with the euro currently trading strongly against sterling it reduces the cost competitiveness of imported beef.

A weaker sterling also provides benefits for Northern sheep producers.

Exports of sheepmeat to the EU accounted for 96pc of all UK sheepmeat exports during 2016 with France and Germany being the two largest market outlets.

A weaker sterling makes UK lamb more cost competitive against other Eurozone product and this makes it easier for local processors to secure market outlets, the LMC says.

It also highlights that a weaker sterling also makes Northern Irish lambs more attractive to processors in the Republic and this increases competition for lambs with the local processors.

This has had a positive impact on the live trade in marts in Northern Ireland and also has helped boost deadweight quotes early this week to 480-490p/kg up to 21kg in local plants.

In Britain, the trade remains positive this week, according to Bord Bia on the back of steady demand and decreased supply.

The AHDB report that GB R4L grade steers are averaging at 369.9 pence/kg dw which is the equivalent to 422.44 cent/kg for last week.

Looking at heifer prices, in Northern Ireland the R3 grade price equates to 4.20/kg (excl VAT) while the equivalent price in Britain was making 4.25/kg. Looking at exchange rates the Euro is currently making around 88p Sterling.

In France, Bord Bia says the market was reported as steady this week with demand being helped by recent good weather.

This has led to a lot more promotional activity at retail level with most promotions seen on domestically produced items such as steaks, mince, paves, rump and chuck. Looking at prices, French R3 young bulls were steady at 3.72/kg while the O3 cow price decreased 2c and averaged at 3.27/kg.

Meanwhile in Italy, Bord Bia says little change has been reported with the market reported as relatively stable this week. Italian R3 young bulls were back 2c at 3.97/kg while O3 cows in Italy were down 1c making around 2.81/kg.
A herd of cows from the UK East Midlands will be mooing a sigh of relief thanks the kindness of their owner, vegetarian farmer Jay Wilde who has sent them to live out their days in an animal sanctuary.

Leaving their old cattle sheds at Bradley Nook Farm in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, the 59 cows were rehomed in Norfolk at the Hillside Animal Sanctuary on Monday.

A vegetarian for a total of 25 years, Mr Wilde told The Times that he found it very difficult to do your best to look after them and then send them to the slaughterhouse for what must be a terrifying death.

After growing up on the farm, the 59-year-old took over the business in 2011 when his father died. Mr Wilde also made the change from producing dairy goods to organic beef.

But he decided that he wanted to clear his conscience and profit no more from sending his cows to the slaughter house.

Im relieved to have made the decision to no longer farm animals, something which I always found quite upsetting, Mr Wilde said.

Cows have good memories and a range of emotions. They form relationships. Ive even seen them cry.

The herd, worth 40,000 at market, will avoid the abattoir to join the sanctuarys 300 cattle and 2,000 horses, donkeys and ponies. Mr Wilde has kept ten as pets.

Mr Wilde was told by his brother-in-law that he was absolutely insane to donate the herd, 30 of which are pregnant.

The founder of the sanctuary, Wendy Valentine, said Mr Wildes cattle could now enjoy their full 25-year lifespans rather than reaching the slaughter age of two to three years.

The sanctuary was started in 1995 to draw attention to the effects of factory farming and needs to raise a minimum of 5m per year to continue to care for the animals.

The donation was organised by the Vegan Society and Mr Wilde now plans to farm organic vegetables free of animal products and fertilisers to sell in the flourishing vegan market.

Tom Kuehnel, the Vegan Society's campaign officer, told The Independent: "Jay is a real pioneer, which we hope will inspire other farmers to move towards more compassionate and sustainable farming methods that don't involve animals."
Q: I am a senior manager in a telecommunications business and have decided to take the plunge and move careers. I am excited but a bit nervous. My last interview was 20 years ago, as I was headhunted for my current position. I am concerned that - as a person in my late 40s - I am going to stand out among the younger candidates for the role. Do you have any advice on how I should prepare?

A: I agree that you could stand out at interviews, as employers might consider you too experienced or expensive - even a little out of touch. However, don't lose sight of the things you do have that others might not - including excellent work experience, a valuable skill set, a strong network of contacts and a solid track record. The secret is to be prepared for all those issues that might be considered weaknesses and could be brought up during the interview process.

You are experienced enough to know how to create a good business case for yourself and highlight how you can move your skill set. Demonstrate your willingness to learn, to keep growing and take risks. Many candidates I meet have the same fear about their age - but I always say age should never be a factor. Focus on your strengths around your work experience and qualifications. Ask yourself truthfully 'What value can I bring to this new role' and 'Can I sell myself as an expert'?

Will they think I have less energy? We all slow down as we age. However, in the workplace, sometimes the less-experienced person can waste energy on finding a solution when a more seasoned performer may be able to offer solutions immediately. Efficiency is key, so you need to give examples of where you were able to sustain your energy levels for major projects and deliver the results.

Am I less productive? Advancing years does not mean declining work productivity. Clearly you need to demonstrate that you are innovative, you are driven and have led projects to enhance productivity. Give examples of where you have brought improvements or suggested changes to the table that had a positive impact.

Am I overqualified? If you feel they may question that fact that you are overqualified and may be using this as a stop-gap, then you may consider offering to take the role on a contract basis to bring your expertise and see how that contract works out before a permanent role is offered.

Will I work with a younger team? This is a question that you will have to feel comfortable with. Along with the idea of you reporting into someone younger, they also have to get their heads around having someone nearly as old as their parents reporting to them. The important thing to remember is that success will come from your experience and technical skills rather than the age demographic of the team.

Is my salary too high? I would not apologise for the fact that your salary now reflects the experience you have and the market demand for your particular skills. I have experienced employers asking candidates to justify the increased spend when it comes to remuneration. Ensure you can show the benefit you can bring by taking on additional responsibility, increase productivity, increase sales and drive improved results.

Will I deal with change? Some employers may think you could resist change. But you can put the case that as a more mature employee you have already adapted to many change situations successfully, eg coping through previous downturns, implementing major system changes, making a complete career transition, etc.

How will I dress? Your professional appearance is so important and you should not be trying to look half your age, as that could go against you. Look smart in up-to-date office attire.

Am I out of touch? You need to ensure that you are on top of new technology. Be active on social media and build your brand on LinkedIn, use webinars in your field of expertise and be ready to discuss new trends and tech in the market, using current vocabulary in your industry. If the interviewer is younger, try not to sound condescending when referring to your experience.

Be positive about your age and experience. Use it to your advantage, but be mindful how you approach the questions. Be sure to use contacts to open doors, give advice for your career move, or bounce ideas around for interview preparation.

Michelle Murphy is director of Collins McNicholas, Recruitment & HR Services Group, which has offices in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Sligo, Athlone and Limerick
In this age of instant online banking, few of us give a thought to getting the best deal on our holiday money.

Gone are the days when you queued with travellers' cheques outside a foreign bank or schlepped around Benidorm looking for the best rate. The euro and internet have put paid to that.

However, some things don't change. When it comes to bank charges and transferring money abroad, the fees can still rack up, making your holiday more expensive than you'd planned.

This week I'm looking at foreign exchange rates, be they for holidays, study trips or gap years.

Whether you're paying with plastic or cash, it's worth remembering that not all currency is the same. The last thing you want when you return home is a big bill from your bank.

Holiday Europe

*If you're in the Eurozone, things are fairly straightforward, but you can get caught out with unnecessary charges.

Using your debit card is the easiest way to avoid them, but beware of local banks that may charge a cash withdrawal fee.

*Never use your credit card to withdraw cash abroad - even euro - because you will be charged a hefty cash-advance fee for the privilege (see table).

In addition, you'll be charged interest from the moment of withdrawal and your purchases won't be covered by the card's insurance. Better to use it directly to buy goods or not at all.

*If you're intent on using your credit card, load it up with cash before you go. Some banks, such as PTSB, won't charge if you're in credit, but many others will.

The fee is about 1.5pc of the cash amount, but there are pesky minimum charges that apply, so if you absolutely have to use it, don't do it in dribs and drabs as you'll be charged each time.

The cash advance fee can even apply when you're transferring money from one account to another.

UK and Outside Eurozone

*The first rule is to ignore all those signs on currency kiosks that announce "No Commission" or "No Fees" because their fee is built into usually extortionate exchange rates.

The current rate for sterling, for instance, is about 1.15, while a kiosk can charge 1.35 or more.

* Download XE.com for real-time currency rates. Of course, you can expect to pay something extra for the bank's trouble, but any more than a few cent and you're being done.

* Banks charge more outside the Eurozone. You'll pay the foreign exchange fee, which is about 2.25pc, in addition to any cash advance fee for withdrawals and whatever exchange rate the bank chooses.

* Debit cards are not immune. Banks charge for all purchases in non-euro denominations. The Bank of Ireland, for example, charges 2pc (maximum 11.43) on purchases.

* Charges apply online too, so availing of cheap sterling on UK sites may still incur a card charge.

Sending Money Abroad

The most common ways of sending cash are by Western Union (run by An Post) or directly by your bank.

Neither is cheap, but Western Union has the advantage of being instant, so the recipient can collect the cash. However, the charge is eye-watering: 7.50 to send up to 35 and 53 to send up to 1,270.

Others worth exploring include CurrencyFair.com and Transferwise.com, while Ulster Bank has an emergency cash allowance up to 300, even for customers who lose their card.

If there's a chance that you'll want to send money to your son or daughter, set them up as a payee on your account before they leave.

This can take up to a week to arrange, but it means you can effortlessly (maybe too effortlessly) transfer cash to them.

Plynk

This new Irish start-up is proving very popular with young people. It's essentially a messaging app that moves money between people.

It's handy for holidays or nights out when you want to share the cost of a taxi or a meal but don't have the cash.

An account is set up (in association with MasterCard) on the app and you can pay, say, Mary 10 and John 5.70 as your share of a bill. They can either transfer the money into their own account or use it to pay forward from their own Plynk account.

More than 6,000 people have signed up and the founder, Charles Dowd, says Plynk is expanding into Spain and Portugal.

It's not a retail bank in the normal sense, but it's fully regulated.
Facebook is facing growing pressure to identify and prevent the spread of content from terrorist groups (AP)

Facebook has revealed it is sharing Instagram and WhatsApp users data.

The company has published a blog post detailing some of the ways in which it plans to keep content related to terrorism off the site.

However, one of the tactics is likely to prove highly controversial.

Facebook says one of its current focuses is "cross-platform collaboration", where it also collects and analyses users data from Instagram and WhatsApp  two extremely popular services that are owned by Facebook.

"Because we dont want terrorists to have a place anywhere in the family of Facebook apps, we have begun work on systems to enable us to take action against terrorist accounts across all our platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram," wrote Monika Bickert, Facebooks director of global policy management, and Brian Fishman, the sites counterterrorism policy manager.

"Given the limited data some of our apps collect as part of their service, the ability to share data across the whole family is indispensable to our efforts to keep all our platforms safe."

The blog post doesn't specify which "limited data" is being shared and how it is being used, but it adds that Facebook is using artificial intelligence to understand language and recognise images.

Weve asked Facebook for more information, and will update this piece if the company responds.

WhatsApp conversations are protected by end-to-end encryption, which has come under heavy fire from the government, despite being crucial for protecting people and important systems from criminals.

"We know that terrorists sometimes use encrypted messaging to communicate," the Facebook post continues.

"Because of the way end-to-end encryption works, we cant read the contents of individual encrypted messages  but we do provide the information we can in response to valid law enforcement requests, consistent with applicable law and our policies."

Facebook bought WhatsApp in 2014 and, despite initially claiming it would keep user information for the two services separate, announced controversial data-sharing plans last year.

These were suspended in November, and the European Commission said Facebook "intentionally or negligently" submitted "misleading information" ahead of its WhatsApp takeover.

However, the company maintains it did nothing wrong.
Michael Hayes on Too Old for the Road

The plight of elderly Irish people who are facing the prospect of losing their driving licences is explored in a new one-off RTE documentary tonight.

Too Old for the Road focuses on the importance of being able to drive for elderly people's independence and for their ability to stay connected with friends, family and society.

Michael Hayes (84) from Kilkenny is just one of the people featured in the doc. He is suffering from age-related macular degeneration, an eye condition for which there is no cure.

Despite needing a magnifying glass to read, Michael still drives 30 minutes to a nursing home to visit his wife of 55 years, Margaret.

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People over 70 in Ireland must submit a medical report from a doctor when renewing their licence. The doctor can recommend it be valid for one year or three.

However, drivers must tell the licensing authority about any injury or illness which may affect their safe driving ability.

Michael's driving licence expires in a few months and with a renewal unlikely he does not know how he will be able to see her.

"I don't know what I'm going to do when I can't visit my wife," he says, "It's not a nice thing to think about. I'm not looking forward to it."

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There is no public transport between his home and the nursing home and although Michael's son drives him "when he's not working himself" his son is leaving for Thailand shortly.

Speaking about Margaret and why she lives in a nursing home, Michael, who now lives alone, becomes very emotional.

Video of the Day

"I wasn't able to look after her, you see, when I had the operation," he explains. "I was months in hospital and she had a couple of strokes and then she had to go into hospital.

"They wouldn't let her out of the hospital. They wouldn't let her back here. They said it wasn't safe for her. So they got her into Thomastown.

"We'll be married 55 years in September. That's a long time. It's terrible to be getting old. Nobody wants you. Hospitals don't want you. Nursing homes... well."

Michael's story is just one of several stories, both moving and uplifting, featured in Too Old for the Road, which airs on RTE One tonight (Monday) at 9.35pm.
Anne Moore. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Anne Moore. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Anne Moore. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Anne Moore. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Joan O'Rourke. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John O'Rourke. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Joan O'Rourke. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Taylor. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Taylor. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Taylor. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Walsh. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Walsh. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

John Walsh. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Michael Hayes. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Michael Hayes. Too Old for the Road, RTE One, Monday June 19, 9.35pm

Several Irish documentaries from the wonderful 'His & Hers' and 'Mom and Me' from director Ken Wardrop to Alex Fegan's 'Older than Ireland' have shone a light on the lives of elderly people in Ireland in recent years.

RTE's latest offering, Too Old For The Road, which aired on RTE One tonight was in a similar vein, this time focusing on the importance of being able to drive for elderly Irish people's independence and ability to stay connected with friends and family and society.

It was enlightening, often funny and, at times, hugely moving as issues ranging from failing eyesight to rural isolation impacted on their lives.

Here are 10 of the most magical and moving moments:

1. Michael (84) getting emotional about being separated from his beloved wife Margaret

One of the most heartbreaking stories came from Michael from Kilkenny who is suffering from age-related macular degeneration, an eye condition for which there is no cure.

Despite needing a magnifying glass to read, Michael still drives 30 minutes to a nursing home to visit his wife of 55 years, Margaret. However, his driving license expires in a few months and with a renewal unlikely he does not know how he will be able to visit her as there is no public transport.

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Michael, who lives alone, revealed he's a "stew man", cooking himself a big pot every week and eating it for five or six days. He has a son who occasionally drives him around when he can, but his son is leaving for Thailand soon.

Speaking about Margaret and why she lives in a nursing home, Michael became very emotional.

"I wasn't able to look after her, you see, when I had the operation," he explained. "I was months in hospital and she had a couple of strokes and then she had to go into hospital.

"They wouldn't let her out of the hospital. They wouldn't let her back here. They said it wasn't safe for her. So they got her into Thomastown.

Video of the Day

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"We'll be married 55 years in September. That's a long time. It's terrible to be getting old. Nobody wants you. Hospitals don't want you. Nursing homes... well."

Margaret suffers from dementia, but loves to go out so John takes her out for lunch every Sunday.

"I don't know what the future holds," he said. "But that's life, you take it as it comes. But it throws all kinds of things at you."

2. Joan's raspy giggle

Joan O'Rurke (86) lives in rural Co. Galway and she was summonsed to appear in court having ignored a fixed charge penalty notice for speeding.

"For the life of me I can't see myself speeding down the road at 86 years of age!" she exclaimed before adding, "I'll be on camera anyway so it must be true."

Joan's daughter Bereneice took her to Galway Circuit Court to face the judge and on the way she joked, "We'll go somewhere nice for lunch - Limerick jail!"

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Joan was what you would call a character, revealing her top tip for hiding scratches on her car...

"It's a great car, brand new," she said. "I do painting. If I scratch that car I go out and I get my paintbrush out there and I cover it up. Sure look, do you know the difference?"

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She also revealed that she told her driving instructor that she had to do her shopping so he brought her in to Dunnes and did it with her.

3. Anne going to the ball - heart condition or no heart condition.

Anne (88) has atrial fibrillation, but that doesn't stop her living life to the full.

"One of the last times it happened was at The Savoy Cinema," she said. "The place was swarming with guards because there were all sorts of VIP people at the film. They got an ambulance and they said they were taking me to hospital. I said, 'Not at all! I'm going to a ball in the Burlington tonight. I'm not going to no hospital!" So I wouldn't go and I went to the ball in the Burlington and I'd a great time!"

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Anne then revealed her heart had actually stopped for two minutes.

4. John (101) grassing on his mates.

"I'm a bit surprised to be driving at the moment but I don't seem to be making mistakes," said the Tipperary man, who drives an electric car to help preserve the environment. "I am very determined that if I feel I'm dangerous I'll stop. I had two friends here, both of whom... I think they were really driving by feel."

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5. John (75) and his old school ice-cream van.

Dubliner John's been driving the same ice-cream van in the city for 50 years, doing the same route every day. He's self employed and not entitled to the State pension so he still relies on his job for an income.

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6. Joan speaking about her son who had passed away.

Speaking about her family, Joan revealed her husband had died of cancer and her son Ciaran had also passed away.

"I don't show my feelings much at all. I might be smiling or acting the fool or something like that," she said. "I thought if Ciaran was here now [when she received the summons], he was full of the divil. From laughing thinking of him it went the other way... if only he was here. Stupid way to think. He can't be here."

Ciaran drowned in New Zealand. Joan revealed what she was thinking the night she found out he had died; "Why didn't he listen? Why didn't he this...? But he was a bit like his mother. His mother don't listen either!"

Too Old for the Road is available on RTE iPlayer.
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin with parishioners from North Wall, which has suffered in the gang feud, celebrating the feast of Corpus Christi. Photo: John McElroy

Archbishop Diarmuid Martin took to the streets of north inner city Dublin yesterday in a gesture of solidarity with a community that "suffers much" from gangland violence, poverty, unemployment and addiction.

Speaking in St Laurence O'Toole Church in North Wall, the senior churchman said the Corpus Christi procession through neighbouring streets was "in support of great families who work tirelessly and with courage every day in building community in Dublin's north inner city".

Walking the streets accompanied by a large crowd of local parishioners, he blessed the "places where violence has brought death and tragedy".

He also prayed for the locality's young people as he passed schools and remembered the older generation "that they will never feel lonely, frightened, or abandoned".

Dr Martin prayed for consolation for those left grieving and mourning.

At the beginning of the year, Dr Martin called for an end to gangland violence and accused drug barons engaged in murderous feuds of being "totally blinded by their own selfish interest in the drug trade".

Since the eruption of the Kinahan-Hutch feud at the Regency Hotel, there has been an increased armed Garda presence in the north inner city. Gardai say they have foiled as many as 20 intended hits, but 12 people have still been killed.
LEO Varadkar could not contain his enthusiasm for his first overseas trip as Taoiseach and spoke of his "thrill" at being in 10 Downing Street, the location for Christmas-movie staple Love Actually.

However, despite opening his remarks after his first meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May with the bizarre reference to the Hugh Grant rom-com, he soon had to address more serious matters - the various tragedies to have struck Britain in recent weeks.

Mr Varadkar is in London today for talks on Brexit and Northern Ireland, but he began his remarks with the movie reference.

He said to Mrs May: "Prime Minister. Thank you very much for hosting us today here in 10 Downing Street. It's my first time in this building so there's a little thrill in it as well.

He added that on the way he he was "reminded of that famous scene in Love Actually where Hugh Grant was dancing down the stairs".

"But apparently it wasn't actually filmed here," he added.

Mr Varadkar then referenced the fact it was his first visit overseas as Taoiseach and thanked the Prime Minister for arranging to meet at such short notice.

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"It does I think underline and emphasis the strength and the closeness of the relationship that exists between our two countries."

Then Mr Varadkar spoke of the tragedies that have befallen Britain in recent weeks - the London Bridge terror attack, the Grenfell Tower fire and last night's horror outside Finsbury Park Mosque.

"At the meeting I spoke again and offer the condolences on behalf of the Irish people and the Irish government to the British people and the British government on the enormous tragedies that this country and this city has faced...

"We passed the Grenfell Tower on the way today and saw the destruction that occurred there and even this morning as you know there's been another atrocity up in Finsbury Park on top of what's happened at London Bridge.

"London is a very important city for Irish people. I think pretty much everybody in Ireland has somebody who lives here, a relative of theirs or and when there is an attack on London we feel in Ireland that it's almost an attack on us as well.

"I just want you to know that you have our support and our solidarity and if there's anything that we can do to assist we're ready and willing to do so," Mr Varadkar said.
AN Algerian man recently arrested on suspicion of involvement in terrorism is set to be deported on Tuesday morning after the High Court dismissed proceedings aimed at preventing deportation.

The man who has been living in Ireland since 2012, and cannot be named for legal reasons, had brought legal challenges against a removal order issued by the Minister for Justice in April.

He claimed he would be tortured and subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment if returned to Algeria due to his "imputed political opinion."

On Monday, Ms Justice Miriam O'Regan dismissed the man's claims and cleared the way for the authorities to deport him.

The man had sought permission to challenge the Minister's refusal to allow remain in Ireland until his application to re-enter the asylum process had been determined.

He also applied for an injunction preventing his removal until that application had been determined.

In her ruling, the judge said she was quite satisfied to dismiss the action after hearing evidence from a detective garda with the Garda Bureau of National Immigration that the man has travelled over and back to Algeria since arriving in Ireland.

Det Gda David Kennedy told the court that the man admitted in an interview he spent the entire of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in 2016 in Algeria.

The man went to Algeria via Barcelona before returning to Ireland through Paris. The court was also presented with the man's passport.

The judge said the man's application was "entirely abusive" and she was quite satisfied the man had "no fear whatsoever of being returned to Algeria."

Not only was the man's application an abuse of the system but was also damaging and unfair to "genuine asylum seekers", she said.

The judge was told the man was scheduled to be put on a flight due to leave Dublin at 7am on Tuesday morning.

In separate proceedings brought almost two weeks ago, the High Court refused to grant him permission to challenge the Minister's refusal to revoke the deportation order.

The man secured a temporary injunction preventing his deportation until the matter came before the Court of Appeal.

However he did not progress his appeal and instead opted to bring new proceedings aimed at preventing his deportation.

The State opposed the action before Ms Justice O'Regan, claiming it an abuse of process that should be dismissed.

The High Court had previously heard the man, who was tried and acquitted of a terrorist offence in Algeria in 2009 was arrested and detained by the gardai in Dublin some weeks ago before being released.

The man denies having any "connection or interest in terrorist activities" and says he is a "peace loving person."

In a sworn statement, he said because he was tried for terrorism offences in Algeria, coupled with the fact he was arrested in Ireland, would draw the Algerian authorities attention to him

He claimed he would be "in grave danger" if returned to Algeria.

If deported he claimed he would most likely on arrival "be taken into custody and mistreated" in one of "the notorious places of detention".

He applied for asylum shortly after his arrival in Ireland.

His application was based on his claim that he had worked for an Algerian charity, whose head supported Al Qaeda in Algeria.

Arising out of the his former boss's activities the man says he was arrested, detained and tortured by the Algerian authorities.

His application for asylum was refused in 2013 He then made an application for subsidiary protection, which was deemed withdrawn after he failed to attend an interview with the authorities.

The man underwent a marriage to an EU citizen which was found to be a sham. The State then revoked residency rights he acquired as a result of the marriage.
A teenager accused of posting a grossly offensive message about the Manchester bombing on social media is to confirm next month if he will contest the charge.

Kevin O'Neill appeared before Belfast Magistrates' Court today over comments he allegedly made online in the wake of the atrocity.

The 19-year-old, from Cliftonville Road in the city, faces a charge of improper use of a public electronic communications network.

He was arrested last month under the Malicious Communications Act.

Twenty-two people were killed and scores more injured when a suicide bomber attacked fans leaving an Ariana Grande pop concert at the Manchester Arena on May 22.

O'Neill spoke only to confirm he understood the charge against him.

Defence solicitor Sarah McKeown requested a two-week adjournment to consider all the papers received in the case.

She is expected to confirm her client's attitude to the charge on his next appearance.

O'Neill was released on continuing bail to return to court on July 3.
A woman who was violently raped by a man in a Dublin hotel during a gaming convention wept and said "nothing in my life is the same anymore" as her rapist was jailed for 12 years.

Keith Hearne (28) brought a rape kit with a prop knife, handcuffs, mask and condoms and told the terrified victim: I could break your neck here and now.

Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy handed down the sentence at the Central Criminal Court today, saying the ordeal had been "devastating for the victim.

Hearne stood with his arms by his side and stared at the judge as sentence was passed. The victim, Dominique Meehan (24) cried and hugged supporters, some of whom burst into applause as Hearne was led away.

Judge McCarthy backdated the prison sentence to April 2017 and ordered that Hearne is put under post-release probation supervision for five years.

Hearne, from Tallaght, pleaded guilty to two counts of rape, one count of oral rape and one count of falsely imprisoning the woman at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Blanchardstown on July 4, 2015.

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Ms Meehan (24) has waived her right to anonymity.

Evidence was heard previously and the case was back before the court for sentencing today.

Defence barrister Michael Bowman said the accused would continue to have the love and affection of his family unit on release.

He asked that the address of the family home not be reported again in the press as the house had been targeted by persons who were displeased by his offending behaviour.

Judge McCarthy said it was a case where it was frankly difficult to express the horror of the offence.

Suffice it to say this is an offence of the utmost seriousness, he said.

The judge said the accused perpetrated an extremely violent series of sexual offences on the victim, extending to her false imprisonment over a period of time.

He noted that when she screamed, Hearne had said: I have a knife in my bag, if you dont shut up, Ill use it.

The victim had used the words incredible pain to describe what she suffered and the judge said at one stage during the attack, the accused had pulled her legs over her head.

A third party heard what was going on and fortunately intervened, the judge said.

Having read the victim impact statement, Judge McCarthy said Ms Meehan was a very impressive person and these events have been devastating for her.

Reading psychiatric reports, the judge said Hearne had schizoaffective disorder and autism spectrum disorder and would require continued psychiatric treatment while in custody.

The psychiatric report found Hearne was of sound mind at the time of the offence, so his culpability was not diminished in any way notwithstanding his mental health issues, Judge McCarthy said.

If released into the community, Hearne would fall into the moderate to high risk group for sexual re-offending, the report concluded.

A probation report put it more starkly and stated the accused was at high risk of re-offending.

The judge noted that as a person with psychiatric difficulties, Hearne had failed to submit properly to treatment.

He said the appropriate starting point for sentencing was 15 years and the only mitigating factor he found was the accuseds guilty plea.

Judge McCarthy reduced the sentence to 12 years for rape and gave him concurrent 12 and six year sentences for the other charges.

Conditions of his post-release supervision are that abides by all terms set down by the Probation Service, resides at an approved address and submits to any approved medical treatment.

At an earlier hearing, Garda Lisa Lawler told prosecuting counsel Shane Costelloe that Ms Meehan was volunteering at the ArcadeCon gaming convention in the hotel on the day in question.

She was preparing a presentation in a meeting room when Hearne entered the room and sat at the back. She became uneasy and moved to leave, but Hearne locked the door and threw her to the ground.

The attack stopped only when another conference worker entered the room using a hotel key card. Gardai were called and Hearne was arrested at the scene. He told gardai he had gone to the convention in the hopes of getting with another woman.

When that woman rejected him he said he had "anger flowing through him" and he then entered the meeting room and attacked his victim.

Ms Meehan described in evidence how she woke up every night crying for months after the attack, "thinking he had come back to finish the job".

"Before this, I wouldn't call myself an angry person, but now I punch walls, scream and walk out on conversations. I don't know what to do with this anger," she said.

The victim described how she has struggled with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-harming and suicidal thoughts since she was raped.

"People see me smiling and laughing. They don't see me curled up under a blanket on my sofa," she said.

"He may go to prison, but I'm already there because of what he did."

Mr Bowman said his client engaged in "absolute opportunism and exploitation" of his victim and there was "no excuse" for what he did.

It was an "unspeakable intrusion and violation of her person", he added.

Outside the court Dominique said it was important that victims of rape come forward and report their attackers.

This is what I wanted, this is what the (gaming) convention community needed, to prove that this man was as evil as he is.

The reason Im waving my anonymity isn't for popularity, it's for people to know that coming forward to say you were raped is a good thing and you can do it. There is no doubt its tough but the more people who do report their rapes the more people will be able to see you can't rape, it doesn't work, she said.

While 12 years is a bit of a light sentence in my opinion he has got a sentence, and I can show people he got what he deserves and what I deserve, Dominique added.

She also said it was important to identify Hearne because she felt if she hadn't then he could have been free to go back to any convention as if he'd been on holiday.

He could attack someone else, and like the judge said, he is a high risk, she said.

My whole life has been impacted. There is no ifs, buts and ands about it, nothing in my life is the same anymore. I have to treat every day like someone is going to rape me. I am constantly on alert, I can't help but be, she said after careful thought.

Even though today I knew he was in custody I had to keep an eye out for him. Logically, he couldn't get to me but that's how I have to treat every day now, said Dominique.

She said she hoped the 12 year sentence given to Hearne would help her own recovery, but that in the end she was still raped, and still has to deal with it.

The fact that he's gone makes me feel very safe , said Dominique.

She said that she felt everything that the justice system could do for her was done.

I can't say enough about the Gardai, they did so much for me, especially my garda liaison and the investigating garda in Blanchardstown, they were amazing.

Dominique said it could be a long time before she goes to another gaming convention, and that at the moment it's not feasible.

She said that while 12 years does not feel like a light enough sentence, it is long enough for her to feel safe.
The owner of a Chinese takeaway hit a robber over the head with a wok, and detained him until gardai arrived.

Michael Cassidy (22), of Mountain View, Point Road, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at Lin's Takeaway, in the town, on October 2, 2016, Dundalk Circuit Court heard.

Judge Petria McDonnell was told that before 7pm, Cassidy went into the takeaway armed with a tyre iron.

As he walked in, he pulled a balaclava down over his face and banged the weapon on the counter, shouting at a female staff member to open the till and hand over money.

Armed

Simon Lin, owner of the restaurant, who was cooking in the kitchen, heard the commotion, ran out and saw a masked man armed with something.

He later told gardai he feared for his safety and that of his workers.

Mr Lin lifted a nearby wok and hit Cassidy on the head and the defendant began to run away. Mr Lin came out from behind the counter and chased him, catching up with Cassidy a short distance away and held him while a passer-by contacted gardai.

The judge imposed a two-and-a-half-year sentence, backdated to November 1 and suspended the last 18 months for two years on condition Cassidy follows the directions of the Probation Service on his release.
A Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) investigation into the suspected laundering of cash netted from drugs importation and distribution has been extended outside Ireland.

The CAB probe is focusing on the activities of an organised crime gang based in west Dublin as part of a wider crackdown on gangs looking to become major players in gangland circles.

The CAB was called in to examine its assets after the gang had been targeted by the Garda Special Crime Task Force, which was set up a year ago to support the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau to pinpoint key figures in gangland. Cash, vehicles and high-end jewellery, with a total value in excess of 110,000, have already been seized.

Inquiries are being made in Switzerland and Northern Ireland to find the background of some of the jewellery recovered in searches in west Dublin.

One item, a gent's Rolex watch worth almost 30,000, was reported stolen from a store outside Belfast six years ago. Three other watches, with a combined value of 43,000, were also confiscated along with Louis Vuitton and Chanel handbags and two cars - a BMW 5-series and a Citroen - worth up to 35,000. A further 20,000 in cash of various currencies was also seized.

The investigation is one of 62 cases initiated since the Special Crime Task Force started operations targeted at members of gangs categorised by gardai as second and third-tier criminals.

The move was one of a series of initiatives announced by the Garda authorities in the wake of the Kinahan-Hutch feud.
A man has been arrested after several people were assaulted during an unprovoked attack outside a West Dublin flat complex this morning.

The incident was caught on camera and footage shows the topless male approaching another man at Waterville Terrace in Blanchardstown and punching him.

The victim, who is carrying what appears to be a vacuum cleaner, falls against a car. He gets up and is seen coming face to face with the assailant before a group of people try to intervene.

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However, the attacker then turns his attention to the four people and hits one man before chasing them through a car park.

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A further violent tussle then takes place with three men attempting to control the assailant.

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Eventually the group flee leaving the man alone in the car park where he puts his hands on his knees and appears to be gasping for breath.

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Gardai say they were called to a public order incident at the Waterville apartments in Blanchardstown at 11.30am.

A spokesman said: "A man, aged in his 20s, was arrested and detained at Blanchardstown garda station under section four of the criminal justice act."

Independent.ie understands that the suspect is of Eastern European descent.
All skin is different so it is important to choose your sunscreen SPF according to your own tendency to burn.

Three children were brought to hospital in the capital over the weekend as Ireland enjoyed its hottest days of the year so far.

The mercury hit 27 degrees in part of the country and in Dublin three children had to be brought to hospital.

One child under the age of five was brought to the Emergency Department in Temple Street with sunburn.

In previous years more children may have been expected to present and one source said it appeared parents were getting more sun smart.

Meanwhile, two children were brought to Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin with an illness related to the prolonged sunshine.

The HSE has advice for people to ensure that children and babies, who have much more sensitive skin, are kept safe in the sun.

The advice is as follows:
The EU Commission has conceded it cannot say how much multi-national tax revenue Ireland would lose under a proposal to give Brussels more control over big company taxes.

After a series of tax avoidance scandals associated with the multinationals, which has heaped pressure for change on Ireland, the policy-guiding commission has redoubled efforts to get approval for a so-called common consolidated corporate tax base (CCCTB).

This is a single set of EU-wide rules to calculate companies' taxable profits. But confusion has persisted about the actual impact of this scheme, which the commission argues would diminish the multinationals' power to play one tax jurisdiction off against another.

EU Tax Commissioner Pierre Moscovici has now told Dublin Fine Gael MEP Brian Hayes that he cannot give a full country-by-country breakdown of revenue losses arising from the single set of company tax rules.

Commissioner Moscovici had previously said the Irish Government stood to lose just 0.2pc of tax revenue - but the Irish business lobby group Ibec is predicting a 7.7pc loss, which would leave a sizable hole in State coffers. Now, in a letter to Mr Hayes, the commissioner said it is not possible for Brussels to gauge detailed potential losses at this point.

Mr Hayes has said the problem points up the urgent need for a public study on the full impact of CCCTB. "It is extremely confusing for Irish people to get two drastically different estimates about the impact of this major proposal on our tax revenues. While the commission is of course on a charm offensive to sell CCCTB, we have to ensure that there is no misleading data," Mr Hayes told the Irish Independent.

Commissioner Moscovici has defended his stance on the issue, pointing out that his team has published the outcome of all studies it had undertaken.

He said it did not have all the details required to do a detailed projection of the impact on individual member states and argued that this was a job for national governments.

"Despite our repeated calls for all the member states to undertake national impact assessments in order to allow an informed discussion of the possible similarities and dissimilarities, no member state has so far been able or willing to carry out such impact assessment," Mr Moscovici told Mr Hayes.

The commissioner said he had not received full details of the Ibec study and was reliant only on press reports about it.

He said he had been told that the Ibec details were confidential.

The EU Commission relaunched its CCCTB proposal in 2016 but it goes back to 2001 and requires unanimous approval of all member states. There are fears the departure of Britain from the EU will dilute opposition, with Ireland now reliant on five other much smaller member states for support in opposing it. The Irish Government fears that it will lose multinational tax revenue, which would be more widely spread among other member states. It would not, at this stage, impact on the 12.5pc tax rate which has caused widespread resentment in the bigger EU countries.

The Irish Government has steadfastly rejected the principle that the EU can have a say in individual member states' taxation decisions. It insists this is for national governments.
Leo Varadkar will reward some long-time rebels who backed his leadership campaign when he announces his junior ministerial team tomorrow.

But an abundance of promotion candidates and a shortage of available jobs means that the new Taoiseach risks causing far more dissent and division in the party ranks with these appointments than with the senior team announced last week. Overall, Mr Varadkar may only have space to appoint four or five newcomers to the ranks.

Hotly tipped for promotion are John Paul Phelan of Carlow-Kilkenny; Jim Daly of Cork South-West; and Michael D'Arcy of Wexford. All of them played a big role in Mr Varadkar's election campaign and in keeping up pressure on the outgoing leader, Enda Kenny, to declare his exit plans.

Mr Varadkar has also come under pressure to maintain the four junior ministers who backed his rival Simon Coveney. But at least two of these - David Stanton of Cork East, and Dara Murphy of Cork North-Central - appear vulnerable to demotion.

Mr Stanton's job as Junior Justice Minister was last week offered to, but spurned by, demoted senior minister Mary Mitchell O'Connor, before she accepted the job of Junior Education Minister.

Mr Murphy is cited as likely to make space for Jim Daly, who comes from a neighbouring constituency.

Fine Gael party sources have indicated that the criterion of "geography, gender, talent and loyalty" will apply to the choice of junior ministers as much as to senior ministers. But loyalty will loom much larger this time as many of the Varadkar backers feel their more realistic preferment hope centred on a junior post.

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Most of the Varadkar backers in the outgoing junior ranks will fancy their chances of keeping their positions. These are Catherine Byrne (Dublin South-Central), Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick), Sean Kyne (Galway West), Pat Breen (Clare), Helen McEntee (Meath East), and Andrew Doyle (Wicklow).

Two of those who backed Mr Coveney - Damien English and Marcella Corcoran Kennedy - are thought likely to also hang on also for reasons of party popularity and gender respectively.

Those looking for meaningful posts with real powers include John Paul Phelan, who was very disappointed not to make the senior ranks.

Mr Kyne was annoyed at the manner in which he learned of the loss of responsibility for Gaeltacht affairs which is central to his own Galway West heartland. Mr D'Arcy is engaged in intense competition with his Wexford colleague Paul Kehoe, who got a super-junior post last week.

Others in the mix for promotion are Kerry TD Brendan Griffin, and party chairman Martin Heydon of Kildare South, who impressed as 'referee' in the leadership contest and already has been working on planning for the next election.

Fergus O'Dowd of Louth, dropped by Mr Kenny in July 2014, is also being cited for a possible comeback.

The Taoiseach also faces difficulty in getting through legislation to increase the pay of demoted minister Mary Mitchell O'Connor. As a super-junior minister she would get a top-up of 16,200 a year on her junior ministerial salary of 124,000.

But under current law there is only scope for two super-juniors attending Cabinet without voting rights. Two of three named last week, Independent Finian McGrath and Fine Gael's Paul Kehoe, were previously appointed to that position.

Party sources yesterday said the Taoiseach was most unlikely to prioritise such legislation ahead of more pressing matters in the law-making queue. Fianna Fail has pledged to block the extra appointment, saying it is only designed to resolve Fine Gael's internal problems and that current numbers are sufficient for the workload.
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Today, just five days after his election as Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar travels to London to meet British Prime Minister Theresa May.

The meeting takes place as formal EU-UK Brexit talks finally open in Brussels and fresh efforts begin in Belfast to restore the power-sharing government.

Mrs May is also in the process of trying to complete a support deal with the Democratic Unionist Party to return her embattled Conservative government to power.

This afternoon's talks will be dominated by the interlinked issues of Brexit and Northern Ireland.

Mr Varadkar spoke by phone to Mrs May on Thursday. During this call, he extended the Government's sympathies on the tower block fire in London.

Officials said that both leaders reiterated the shared objectives of avoiding a hard Border, maintaining the common travel area, and supporting the Good Friday Agreement. They also talked about the political discussions in London and Belfast, agreeing on the need to have the Northern Ireland Executive up and running as quickly as possible, and they discussed Brexit.

Since then, both leaders have met with the Northern Ireland parties to discuss the ongoing talks.

Speaking in advance of his visit to London today, Taoiseach Varadkar said he was looking forward to the meeting in Downing Street at 2pm.

"I want to renew the close bond and strong relations that exist between Ireland and the United Kingdom.

"Among other things, we will discuss is Northern Ireland and the need to re-establish devolved Government, and Brexit, focusing on how we can avoid any adverse impact on the rights and freedoms of our citizens, on trade and the economy," he said.
With Ireland set to be hotter than Morocco this week the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has issued a warning to pet-owners.

Temperatures of 27 degrees are expected for the first half of the week and Gillian Bird of the DSPCA told Independent.ie people must be vigilant to protect their pets.

"It is very, very hot so obviously dogs in cars is a no, even putting your dog in the car to go to the park is not OK," she said.

"There is an easy way for people to decide if it is too warm to bring your dog in a car. Think about what would happen to a bar of chocolate if you were to put it in the same place. Will it melt? If answer is yes too hot for the dog," she added.

There are a number of ways to ensure your dog stays safe and cool during the hot weather Ms Bird said. These include:

Ensure dogs have plenty of water

Feed them only early in the morning and later in the evening when it gets cooler

Do not bring them out during the heat of the day for a walk

"It's not just the heat that is a problem but the ground gets very hot and they can get quite bad burns on the pads of the feet," Mr Bird said.

"Also if your cat or dog has a white nose or ears put sun-cream on as they can get burned through white fur which can lead to skin-cancer," she added.

A vet can advise you on the best type of sun-cream to use on your pet.

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For cat-lovers it is important to "make sure they have the option of getting out of the sun".

Anyone with birds is also advised to move their cages out of direct sunlight and apartment dwellers are urged to take care when opening windows to avoid their pets falling out.

Meanwhile Dublin Fire brigade has also urged people to take care when out and about enjoying the sunshine to avoid causing fires in areas where the ground is extremely dry after the weekend.
Above is Irishman Ibrahim Halawa, who has been in an Egyptian jail for four years without trial

Jailed Irishman Ibrahim Halawa has written a heartfelt letter to Leo Varadkar, expressing how his appointment as Taoiseach has given him a new-found hope of returning to Ireland.

The 21-year-old has been detained in Cairo, Egypt, without trial for almost four years.

Last month his trial was adjourned for the 24th time, this time until July 4.

Recently, the Government said it had stepped up its diplomatic efforts to secure the 21-year-old's release, with Mr Varadkar saying he is willing to consider a "different approach".

Mr Halawa has now written a letter to Mr Varadkar from his Egyptian jail cell, revealing that he has put his hunger strike "on hold".

In the letter, which was released by his sister Somaia, Mr Halawa says that for the past four years he has been "wrestling with hope against fate".

"Sometimes I was disappointed and sometimes I was optimistic.

"As time is my worst enemy in prison I have entered a dark tunnel, but hope tends to plant a light pole every now and then.

"Four years of torture, suffering and pain is all I have seen at a very young age."

Last month then-Taoiseach Enda Kenny said he had spoken twice to the Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and wrote him a "very strong letter" pressuring Mr Halawa's release.

However, Mr Halawa says the lack of headway Mr Kenny made left him feeling extremely frustrated.

"I have gotten so frustrated complaining about the former Taoiseach needing to do more, until I lost hope," Mr Halawa wrote in his letter.

Mr Halawa has gone on hunger strike three times since his imprisonment.

In his letter he discusses the negative impact the hunger strikes have had on his health. He says these strikes have done little to improve the conditions in which he lives or speed up proceedings.

Despite the conditions he has endured, Mr Halawa says he now sees a flicker of hope.

"In my dark tunnel I have finally seen the light at the end; it is you, An Taoiseach, waiting on the other side of the tunnel.

"You have not only given me hope to be released soon, but you have given me hope as I know you would understand how much I love my home despite being from a foreign background."

Mr Halawa added that he has now decided to put his hunger strike on hold.

"You have given me hope that maybe one day I can lead my country and become Taoiseach to repay all my people for standing by me at this hard time.

"Therefore I decided to hold my hunger strike as you have not only revived hope for me but also the feeling of safety," he continued.

"A feeling that needed to be restored to every Irish citizen."

Mr Halawa says that his extended family feel equally hopeful about the future since Mr Varadkar won the Fine Gael leadership battle.

"It is not only me who has hope in you, but also my family, the Irish people my friends.

"As one quoted in a letter to me: 'Hopefully Leo's heart bleeds for you more than Enda's did, and that will be his fuel to get you home'.

"I hope to see you soon. Irish Citizen, Ibrahim Halawa."

Mr Halawa was just 17 when he was first arrested in August 2013 while taking sanctuary in the Al Fath mosque in Cairo.

Mr Halawa's sisters were released on bail and are safe in Ireland.

Speaking last night, Somaia said while it was difficult to remain optimistic, she believed "everything my brother is saying in his letter".

"I think the new Taoiseach is a lot more committed to securing Ibrahim release than the former Taoiseach," she said.
A newborn baby has been awarded free flights for life after it was born prematurely mid-flight.

The baby boy was born on Sunday on a Jet Airways flight travelling from Dammam in Saudi Arabia to Kochi. The flight was diverted to Mumbai after his mother went into premature labour. Thanks to the quick actions of cabin crew and a trained paramedic onboard, the baby was born healthy before the Boeing 737 landed.

It marks the first mid-flight birth for the India-based airline, which responded by awarding the newborn a lifetime travel pass for free flights.

More than five infants were born on commercial flights in the last year, but they dont all come away with a golden ticket for free travel for the rest of their lives.

The last airline to award unconditional, complimentary flights for life to a baby born on their plane was AirAsia, when, in 2009, a passenger gave birth while on a two-hour flight from Penang to Kuching.

Most carriers are a little more stingy when it comes to air-born babies. Virgin Atlantic awarded a baby born onboard with free flights until the age of 21. Last year, a baby born on a Cebu Pacific Air flight from Dubai to Manila was given one million frequent flyer miles instead of an open grant of free flights.

Shona Owen, a baby born on a British Airways flight from Ghana to London in 1990, was given complimentary first class tickets with the airline for her 18th birthday. And, despite being named after the airline, Saw Jet star  a child born on a Jetstar Asia flight from Singapore to Rangoon in early 2016  was gifted only S$1,000 (645) worth of baby supplies by the airline.

Not all mid-flight births mean a pay day for the parents, however. In April, a mother went into labour while travelling with Turkish Airlines from Conakry, in Guinea, to Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso. The child, safely delivered onboard but premature at 28 weeks, received nothing more than a ride to the hospital, where both mother and child were declared healthy.
Some of the cast from Angela's Ashes, including Joe Breen as young Frank, Emily Watson as Angela and Robert Carlyle as Dad

In a sense, Frank McCourt disproved F Scott Fitzgerald's famous theory that there were no second acts in American lives. In 1997, Frank's memoir Angela's Ashes won him the Pulitzer Prize for biography. Up to that point, the 60-something had been a schoolteacher in New York for more than 30 years. The book's 426 pages changed everything.

"I wasn't prepared for it," he said in 2005 - but no doubt nothing would have prepared him for the all-dancing, all-singing musical adaptation of his infamous novel, which starts at the Bord Gais Theatre next month.

"After teaching, I was getting all this attention. People I had known for years, they looked at me in a different way. I was thinking, 'All those years I was a teacher, why didn't you look at me like that then?'"

The answer was perhaps that they were unaware of the full extent of the grim Dickensian tale that had been hiding restlessly in his subconscious. The tale that began: "When I look back on my childhood, I wonder how I survived at all." Lines like this led The Guardian to dub him "the father of the misery memoir".

Some alleged that Frank's tale-of-woe and the near-Biblical suffering of starving slum children in 1930s Limerick was pure fiction. Limerick broadcaster Gerry Hannan said: "As far as I'm concerned, he's a conman, a hoaxer."

The book, which became a global best-seller, also inspired parodies (Kevin Myers's Cyril's Cinders) and endless denouncements (among them, Richard Harris banging off self-serving letters to The Times).

There was even an apocryphal story that Angela McCourt - the Angela of the title - disputed her son's memories of his childhood, turning up at Frank and brother Malachy's stand-up show A Couple of Blackguards at a downtown theatre and shouting up at them: "It didn't happen that way. It's all a pack of lies."

After the publication of Angela's Ashes in 1996, the Limerick Leader published pictures of Frank, looking far from a barefoot starving slum-child in rags - smartly turned out in a scout uniform.

"I told my own story. I wrote about my situation, my family, my parents, that's what I experienced," Frank rallied.

"When the book was published in Ireland, I was denounced from hill, pulpit and barstool," Frank told Slate in 2007. "Certain citizens claimed I had disgraced the fair name of the city of Limerick, that I had attacked the church, that I had despoiled my mother's name and that if I returned to Limerick, I would surely be found hanging from a lamppost."

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Far from being hanged from a lamppost, in 1997 Limerick University conferred on Frank an honorary doctorate of letters. In terms of his own education, of which he had very little, Frank used the GI bill (where the US paid college fees for ex-veterans) to enrol at New York University after he came out of the US army. When he graduated, he began teaching in 1958 at a vocational high school in Staten Island.

Born on August 19, 1930, in Brooklyn, Francis McCourt was the eldest son of Irish immigrants, Angela and Malachy. When Frank was four years of age the McCourt family returned to Ireland for a life of particular grimness.

So grim in fact that young Frank - who, when his family didn't receive charity vouchers for food, on occasion stole to feed them - would later say that he dreamed of being sent to jail so that he would be sure of getting three meals a day and a bed.

His brother Eugene died of pneumonia, "cold in the bed beside us". When another brother, Alphonsus Joseph, was born, his alcoholic father spent the baby's christening money on drink. Malachy also did a runner on his wife and children when Frank was 11.

The teachers in school offered no sympathy, he remembered. "They hit you if you can't say your name in Irish, if you can't say the Hail Mary in Irish. If you don't cry the masters hate you because you've made them look weak before the class and they promise themselves the next time they have you up they'll draw tears or blood or both..."

Frank's memories of the priests of his childhood haunted him into his adult life. In the summer of 2002 when Frank invited me to spend three days with him in Rome it had not escaped him, nor should it have, that the beatings he experienced were done on the say-so of the Pope. (He was in the Eternal City to work on a third memoir, Teacher Man, while on a Residency at Rome's American Academy).

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The mental scars went far deeper than lumps left by wallops on the skull with sticks. The bruises all had Holy Rome's stamp on them. It was more than a little ironic, Frank laughed, that 60 years later he was now living in the seat of Catholicism.

Or, as Frank put it himself, he was "bringing back the baggage to Rome that they sent me as a child".

One evening as Frank and I walked along the Tiber into a bar in Piazza Navona, he claimed that being Catholic was like being in the Mafia.

"Once you're in, you're in forever. It is the most ingenious organisation ever created. It sets you up and it strikes you down," he said. "The priests, the cardinals, the bishops are all a bunch of f***king gangsters because they have as good a deal as the Mafioso do, and they have as much control." The priests lacked compassion. "They never came into the slums. Only for the last rites, or, once a year, to take up a collection. And they preached poverty, but they never embraced it."

Frank McCourt was to embrace if not embody the Irish American dream. Although, he did it slightly arse-ways. After 15 years of struggle in Ireland he returned to the States on a boat in 1949, when he was 19, before making his fortune 47 hard years later. He had survived terrible poverty and suffering to become rich and famous. A big shot.

A slumdog millionaire, as it were.

An expensive bottle of wine loosened his already famously indiscreet tongue a little that night in Rome. Frank talked about being drafted into the American army after he arrived to New York and ending up in Europe.

"I was like a beast as far as sex was concerned. I'd jump on anything that moved. I didn't know how to talk to women. It was an all-boys school in Limerick and we knew nothing about girls..."

The working girls of post-war Germany soon educated him. Frank mentioned Janet, a Nordic girl about the same age as him (20), and a German girl, Madeline, "not very attractive but I didn't care. No foreplay or after-play or talk on the pillow...

"Germany was in bad shape. It was all women looking for money. It was a sin and I said 'some day I will confess it, some day, but in the meantime I will have a good time'. I expected that if I died I would catch the fires of hell."

Instead the future Pulitzer Prize winner caught venereal disease. He went to a local German doctor, Doc Block, for the cure. "Doc Block will fix your cock," Frank's salty rhyme explained it all. Frank added that he took Dr Block a pound of coffee or a carton of cigarettes, "which were very scarce in those days".

Frank's experiences in post-war Europe did not just educate him sexually but they also educated him about religions other than the one that was beaten into him by the Catholic Church in Ireland.

"I met southern Baptists, Jews, atheists, agnostics. And they looked pretty normal, as if they were enjoying life."

In August 1961 he married his first wife, Alberta Small, a blue-eyed blonde from Rhode Island. A non-denominational with no religion herself, he laughed. "My mother used to warn all of us: 'Marry your own'. Everybody used to say it: stick with your own kind." Frank told his mother (who died in 1981) that he wasn't in New York to stick with his own kind. He and Alberta were incompatible in every way "socially, psychologically, and emotionally".

Still, the marriage lasted 18 years (and produced a daughter, Maggie). "And that is an awful lot of time for the two of us living in misery," he remembered in a bar in Trastevere.

In August 1984, Frank married his second wife, Cheryl Floyd, a long-legged redhead from North Carolina. "It lasted two minutes. I was going through one of my crazy periods." It was finished by 1985. "I don't blame my ex-wives," he said. "We weren't trained or taught or encouraged to think for ourselves, growing up in Limerick.

"The dogma coming out of the church and the other dogma about Ireland and her suffering, you wouldn't dare open your mouth. We knew nothing about women. As far as the priests were concerned, a woman was an occasion of sin. You just look at one, you start getting ideas."

"Limerick had a different form of Catholicism," he added. "Limerick had sins never heard of in Rome. And in Limerick all of the sins were taught to us in school and we learned we would go to hell or purgatory if we committed them. Then there was another strange place called limbo. This was for little babies who died and hadn't been baptised."

I asked him about his ex wives. A rare species of raconteur/philosopher, Frank McCourt tries to put it all into some kind of perspective.

"The first wife I married in August 1961, the second wife I married in August 1984, the third wife," he smiled with the moon high over Rome, referring, happily, to Ellen Frey, "I married in August 1994. I have to be wary when August comes!" he chortled.

There was a picture of his beautiful Californian wife by the telephone of his apartment in the American Academy on the Janiculum when I arrived to pick him up earlier that evening for dinner.

"Ellen and I have a hot thing going," he practically gushed. The object of his devotion was in Florence but was due back the following night. (On that night, we went to a Ray Charles concert in the Colosseum together.)

Frank added that they had an apartment in New York's Upper West Side ("where I like to be") and a converted 18th-century farmhouse in Connecticut ("Ellen would move out there in a minute"), with wild geese, and Arthur Miller as their next-door neighbour.

"Ellen and I met in 1989," Frank reminisced. "I think I moved in with her in 1991 and we got married in 1994. She was very slow in marrying me because she knew what baggage I had. She took her time. I asked her to marry me in 1990. I expected her to just leap at the opportunity."

But leap she did not. "I was an attractive proposition. I thought I was the charming Irishman. I still acted like the husband from marriage one and marriage two."

Frank laughed that his beloved wife stops him - the millionaire internationally acclaimed author -from getting too much of a big head.

"She pricks my balloon," he laughed, "or balloons my prick."

I asked him about his father. Frank said he still couldn't understand how his father (who died in 1986 in Belfast) could walk away from his children, and leave them to starve. He said he never forgave his father for that.

When I pointed out that his brother Malachy talked about alcoholism as a disease, Frank replied: "You can't walk away from cancer, but you can walk away from a bottle. So I don't absolve my father completely of his responsibility for what he did to us."

The cheeky waif who used to wear rags for nappies and beg a pig's head for Christmas dinner is sipping fine vino in a very expensive restaurant in Rome. "I am a big shot now," he laughed, "I'm a millionaire." He talked about the absurdity of poverty, the humiliating ridiculousness of having nothing. To be poor, he said, deprives you of self-esteem.

As for the book that made him a slumdog millionaire, he started writing only after he retired as a teacher in 1987. "It took me two years and all my life to write it," he told Newsweek. When mature student Frank was studying at NYU in the late 1950s to become a teacher, he wrote an essay about the bed he shared as a child with his three brothers and innumerable fleas. It was said that when Frank received an A-plus for his essay, he began to think of being a writer. It was also said that when Frank began to write Angela's Ashes, he battled with certain aspects of its literary style (a novel became a memoir) and that it was only after watching his young granddaughter, Chiara, and noticing the way she talked, that Frank decided to tell the story through a child's eyes.

But back to Rome. The following evening, outside the Colosseum, a young woman approached Frank to congratulate him on Angela's Ashes: its status as holy writ from the Antichrist of Limerick is confirmed by five million sales and fans all over the world.

"I lived with anonymity all my life," Frank laughed, "so I don't mind a bit of attention now."

Later that night he would remark that "it's a good thing fame came late in life. If it had come 25 years ago, I'd probably be dead by now of whiskey and fornication.

"The light is in the clearing," Frank joked about his death one day.

"As long as I don't get some wretched dragged-out illness. I hear all the time 'so-and-so is gone.' Every month there is a new obituary. I don't feel close to any end at all."

Frank McCourt died on July 19, 2009, of cancer.

Angela's Ashes: The Musical will play Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Dublin, from July 18-30.
Some of Irish history's most famous and infamous figures are buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.

Michael Collins' grave is probably the most visited in Ireland, while Daniel O'Connell's last resting pace is visible to many residents in the Dublin neighbourhood.

Last year, 1916 heroes graves were decorated and visited by thousands across the world to mark the centenary, but this year, one of Ireland's biggest tourist attractions has decided to devote a new tour to those who may not be household names.

The 'Dead Interesting' tour (see video above), which takes place in Glasnevin Cemetery at 1pm every day, shows the graves of fascinating figures such as the only woman to have two funerals at the site.

We took a tour with Chief Tour Guide Paddy Gleeson to see what other curiosities are hidden in the 124 acre site.

For more information, visit the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum website here.
There is a strong case to be made for special funding from Brussels. Photo: Reuters

Today, 362 days after British voters opted to quit the European Union, those EU-UK divorce talks finally get under way. These negotiations are starting before the UK officially forms its new government or lays out its policy programme.

There are also questions about what sort of mandate Prime Minister Theresa May has to pursue Brexit after her general election reverse. In contrast, the EU enters the talks with a certain confidence and a "mandated and accountable negotiator". That negotiator, Michel Barnier, has shown a sincere good intent in relation to Ireland's case.

But with deep disarray in London, Mr Barnier's goodwill may avail us of little in practice. Ireland, North and south, risks becoming the meat in the sandwich.

Today, in our ongoing focus on Brexit, this newspaper examines transport challenges which face the island of Ireland. After an aggressive - if incomplete - road-building programme during the boom years, the Republic's roads are much better than the North's.

A huge upgrade of the roads system within the North is needed to ensure that Donegal and the greater north-west are not marooned by Brexit. Realistically, this must be actively pushed by the Dublin Government. But there is also a strong case to be made for special funding from Brussels.

This brings us neatly to the burning question of a 'Brexit fund' to help offset the deleterious effects on citizens in many countries of the departure of the second biggest economy in the EU. A good chunk of such a fund must go to improving transport links and our report today shows that a 1.7bn investment plan is needed to improve north-south links on this island.

This must become a major part of Ireland's focus.

A simple solution to a very damaging dispute

That unseemly row over the Court of Appeal appointment will do more harm than just taking the gloss off the new Taoiseach. More importantly, it is a huge distraction from urgent Government business.

But there is a simple and quick solution available here: Maire Whelan must withdraw her name from the appointments process. Ms Whelan, an eminent lawyer who served as attorney general for more than six years, could then decide whether she wanted her name considered by the usual appointment route involving the Judicial Appointments Advisory Board.

The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, could concede an error of judgment and get back to the business of Government, which had been stalled for a full calendar month by the Fine Gael leadership election.

There is the opening of the Brexit talks, the ongoing housing crisis, and the intractable problems dogging our health services to deal with. A Budget must be prepared for this October with available funds tightening by the day.

But there were no signs that this sensible course of action was likely to be followed. Over the entire weekend, Mr Varadkar insisted that the appointment of Ms Whelan to the Court of Appeal stands and will go through.

The Government has continued to fall back on the correct assertion that the appointment of Ms Whelan is "lawful". This is true - but it is also opportunistic and politically unacceptable behaviour.
Pippa O'Connor, pictured with husband Brian Ormond and sons Louis and Ollie, in Dubai at Christmas

Celebrity couple Pippa O'Connor and Brian Ormond celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary with sweet tributes to each other.

Social media star Pippa (33) and her business manager husband (37), who have sons Louis (14 months) and Ollie (4), married in 2011 in Co Wicklow and had a big celebrity bash in the Powerscourt Hotel.

They both posted throwback pictures of their wedding over the weekend, with Brian calling Pippa "the most amazing wife".

"You to me are everything," he wrote.

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Blogger Pippa, who hit the town to celebrate on Saturday night, told the Diary that their time as a married couple has "flown by".

"We've packed a lot in between having the boys, starting a business. It's been a busy six years," she said.

The couple met through a mutual friend in Dublin's Krystle nightclub in 2008 and have become one of Ireland's best-known celebrity couples.

But Pippa admits that, like any other busy working mum, she needs time away from her family too sometimes.

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Last week saw her flying to Ibiza for a few fun-filled days on the party island, but this time around with a different Brian.

She was joined by her best pal Brian Dowling and three other buddies as they hit some of the island's hottest spots.

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However, Pippa revealed that there definitely wasn't any clubbing involved, as TV presenter Brian reckons they're too long in the tooth.

"It was so fun. It looked like we were absolutely mad, but we weren't doing the typical Ibiza thing, going to nightclubs," she said.

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"Brian was like, 'Darling, we're too old for nightclubs!' So we were in amazing restaurants and nice bars and that was it.

"There were five of us, but it was the best fun. I feel like I need to go on a retreat afterwards."

Pippa also said she doesn't buy into any notion of "mummy guilt" about leaving her two boys, as it's good for her to have some quality time away from the house as well.

"I've never done more than three nights away from them in a row, but I think whether you get to go away on a break or go out to an event for the day with a friend, I think it's so important for everyone to take time out," she said.

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"That's whether you're a working mum or a stay-at-home mum. I don't feel guilty because it's good for them and I think it's good for me.

"I know they're at home with their dad and they're being looked after.

"I think it stands to you when you're a mum to remember that you're not just a mum and you can go and do different things."
Brexit negotiations have finally begun, with Brexit Secretary David Davis acknowledging there would be would be challenging times ahead as he met the European Commissions chief negotiator Michel Barnier for the formal start of the talks.

Heres what we learned on day one.

1. Theyre doing things literally

Both Davis and Barnier appeared to acknowledge they have a mountain to climb in the talks  by giving each other hiking-related gifts.

Davis gave Brussels chief negotiator a book on mountaineering  an account of a French expedition to the Himalayas  while Barnier presented Davis with a traditional carved wood hiking stick from his home region of Savoie.

A UK source said: Both gifts reflected their shared love of climbing and mountaineering.

With both men seemingly on the same wavelength, it could be a good sign for negotiations.

2. They had a very European lunch

Davis and Bernier will be meeting monthly from now on, so its only right the two men get to know each other properly. A working lunch probably helped that.

They were joined by senior aides as they tucked into Belgian asparagus with Vinaigrette, red mullet with vegetables and fondant potatoes, vacherin (meringue cake) with wild strawberries, mocha coffee and cakes.

No steak and kidney pie? Davis appears to have lost the first battle.

3. The lack of diversity in the UKs negotiation team has been criticised

Davis was flanked at the negotiating table by Olly Robbins, the senior civil servant at the Department for Exiting the European Union, and Sir Tim Barrow, the UKs ambassador to the EU.

Other official at the table included Glynn Williams  director general at the Home Office, Mark Bowman  director general, international finance at HM Treasury, Simon Case  director general, UK-EU partnership team, Alex Ellis  director general at the Department for Exiting the European Union, Jane Walker  aide to David Davis and Christian Jones  press secretary to David Davis.

Its been pointed out that the team appears to be all white, and features just one woman.

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4. The priorities are EU citizens, expats and Ireland

The Brexit secretary said he vowed to seek a deal that works in the best interests of all citizens, with both sides agreeing they want to sort out the rights of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK and the 1.2 million British expats in the EU.

Former French foreign minister Barnier said: We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, first for citizens but also for the beneficiaries of EU policies and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland.

Talks are expected to stretch around 16-18 months, with Barnier insisting on sticking to the EUs priorities and negotiating the divorce bill before opening up talks on future trading.

Officials have made clear that the Government still wants to negotiate its future trade relationship with the EU alongside talks on the terms for Brexit.

5. Davis really seems to believe in these talks

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Davis said: While there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear  a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history.

It sounds like hes in for a busy year-and-a-half.
A man has been charged with the murder of a Muslim teenager who was assaulted and killed after leaving a Virginia mosque with friends.

The 17-year-old disappeared overnight and was reported missing in the early hours of Sunday, prompting authorities to launch an extensive search for the teen, Fairfax County Police Department reports.

Police determined the young woman had been walking in the Sterling area with a group of friends when they got into a dispute with a man in a car. The suspect then got out of his car and assaulted the victim, after which her friends could not find her and called authorities.

Detectives search for missing teenager in Dranesville Rd/Woodson Rd, Herndon area; remains of a female later found nearby, medical examiner will confirm identity

The remains of a female were found the following afternoon in a nearby pond by the search and rescue team  which included helicopters and police dogs  although the cause of death has not yet been determined. While the body has not been formally identified, authorities believe it is that of the teen victim.

While on the search, police spotted a car driving suspiciously in the area and pulled it over. The driver  a 22-year-old man, Darwin Martinez Torres  was taken into custody and subsequently charged for the murder of the young woman.

The All Dulles Area Muslim Society confirmed the teen was affiliated with the centre, and said in a statement: We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event. It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth.
People around the country fell silent at 11am to remember those affected by the devastating fire which engulfed Grenfell Tower last Wednesday.

Shortly before the minutes silence, police announced that the death toll from the north Kensington disaster had risen to 79 victims.

Outpourings of emotion were captured by photographers as people observed the remembrance, including firefighters who shed tears and hugged their colleagues and members of the public in support.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn tweeted of the resolve to ensure the fire is the last tragedy of its kind in Britain:

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The Queen, who visited those affected by the blaze last week with the Duke of Cambridge, stood silent alongside her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, who has scaled back his public engagements ahead of his retirement later this year.

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Scotlands First Minister Nicola Sturgeon observed the silence during a visit to the University of Strathclyde.

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Fire crews around the country paid their respects, including in the North East and in Yorkshire.

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Cricketers at Old Trafford stood silent.

The Lord Mayor of Nottingham thanked the fire services and paid tribute to those affected, saying: For all those killed, we express our sorrow.

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Out of 79 victims, five have been formally identified. The rest are missing and presumed dead, police said.
The talks on the terms of Britains withdrawal from the European Union are finally getting under way in Brussels.

Here are the key questions surrounding the Brexit negotiations.

Who is sitting round the table?

The UK side is led by Brexit Secretary David Davis, the self-described charming bastard and committed Leaver who is spearheading the British negotiating effort. On the opposite side is Michel Barnier, the French former foreign minister who is the European Commissions chief negotiator. They will each be accompanied by a team of senior officials.

What will they be discussing?

Both sides agree a top priority is sorting out the rights of the 3.2 million EU nationals living in the UK and the 1.2 million British expats in the EU. Both say they want a reciprocal agreement although the Europeans say the British side does not appear to appreciate just what that involves.

What else?

Other issues that have to be sorted include the status of the border between Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.

And then there is the divorce bill. The EU side has been suggesting it will be looking for a settlement of around 50 billion in respect of the UKs outstanding liabilities. British ministers insist the final sum will not be anything like that. Expect plenty of wrangling to come.

Is Britain also looking for a free trade deal?

It certainly is. Davis has said that while the UK is pulling out of the single market and the customs union and ending the free movement of labour, he wants an agreement that replicates as far as possible Britains existing trade arrangements with the EU.

Will he get it?

Europes key powerbrokers like Germanys Angela Merkel and Frances Emmanuel Macron are adamant Britain cannot expect to enjoy all the benefits of EU membership from outside the bloc. Barnier has said talks on a trade deal cannot even start until sufficient progress has been made on the other issues. It could be a bumpy ride ahead.

How often will the two sides be meeting?

It is expected talks will take place once a month in Brussels as they work through the issues to be resolved.

How long have they got to sort this out?

Britain is due to leave the EU at midnight Brussels time (11pm in the UK) on March 29 2019  unless an extension is agreed by all 27 remaining member states  with or without an agreement. In practice that is likely to mean the negotiations will need to be wrapped up by the autumn of 2018 in order to allow time for the deal to be ratified.

What will ratification involve?

The European Court of Justice is expected to rule on whether a deal must be approved by the parliaments of the individual member states, Theresa May has promised MPs at Westminster a vote, and finally there will be a vote of the European Parliament. It could be quite a tall order.
The Muslim Council of Britain has called for extra security around mosques after a white man drove a van into worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers in Finsbury Park.

The councils secretary general Harun Khan issued a statement following the incident outside the Muslim Welfare House on Seven Sisters Road. It is being treated by police as an act of terrorism.

Mr Khan said: According to eyewitness accounts and videos taken after the incident, it appears that a white man in a van intentionally ploughed into a group of worshippers who were already tending to someone who had been taken ill.

We do not know how many were injured or killed, but our prayers are with the victims and families.

During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship. It appears from eyewitness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia.

Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia and this is the most violent manifestation to date.

Given we are approaching the end of the month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid with many Muslims going to local mosques, we expect the authorities to increase security outside mosques as a matter of urgency.

Muslim communities have been calling for increased action to tackle the growth in hate crime for many years and transformative action must now be taken to tackle not only this incident but the hugely worrying growth in Islamophobia.

Many will feel terrorised, no doubt be angry and saddened by what has taken place tonight.

We urge calm as the investigation establishes the full facts, and in these last days of Ramadan, pray for those affected and for justice.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said that eight people are in hospital and two others were treated at the scene.

One man, who was receiving first aid from the public at the scene, died after the driver struck, but Basu said it was too early to state if his death was as a result of the attack.
A man prays after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

A man prays after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

Men pray after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

Men pray after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

A man arrested over the Finsbury Park attack has been further arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism including murder and attempted murder, Scotland Yard said.

The attacker has been named locally as father-of-four Darren Osborne, from Weston-Super-Mare in Somerset, according to The Telegraph.

Friends said Osborne had grown up in North Somerset but currently lived in Cardiff with his partner and children.

One man died after pedestrians were targeted by a man driving a van near Finsbury Park Mosque in north London early on Monday.

Witnesses described hearing the man, who was detained by members of the public at the scene, shout: "I'm going to kill Muslims."

Police confirmed searches are being carried out at a residential address in the Cardiff area in connection with the attack.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: "Our thoughts are with all those affected by the incident at Seven Sisters Road and their families, friends and communities.

"This is being treated as a terrorist incident and is being investigated by the counter terrorism command.

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"The investigation is ongoing and we are working fast to know the full details of how and why this took place.

"All the victims were from the Muslim community and we will be deploying extra police patrols to reassure the public, especially those observing Ramadan."

The 47-year-old suspect was arrested for attempted murder at the scene and taken to a south London police station where he remains in custody.

The attacker, who is believed to have acted alone, struck as the area was busy with worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers at the mosque.

Eight people were taken to hospital, with one since discharged, while two others were treated at the scene.

All of the casualties were Muslims.

Police said it was too early to say if the man who died did so directly because of the attack, as he was already receiving first aid from the public at the scene when it happened.

Earlier, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said the incident was "quite clearly an attack on Muslims".

"We treat this as a terrorist attack," she said.

"Sadly we have suffered a number of attacks and very sad events over the last few weeks," she added.

Security Minister Ben Wallace confirmed the man was not known to the security services.

He told BBC Radio 4's World At One: "What I can say on this case is this individual, so far as we know at the moment, was not known to us, but we are aware of a rise in the far right."

Prime Minister Theresa May condemned the incident as "every bit as sickening" as the recent atrocities in London and Manchester.

Witnesses said the suspect was smiling and waving as he brought carnage to Seven Sisters Road, with video posted online showing him give a nonchalant wave as police put him in the back of their vehicle.

Imam Mohammed Mahmoud was hailed for his efforts to calm the chaotic situation before police arrived and was said to have used his body to shield the suspected terrorist from the fury of onlookers.

Mr Basu also thanked members of the public who detained the suspect, saying ''their restraint in the circumstances was commendable''.

He added: ''Given the methodology and given what was occurring, what's happened, the tragic incidents across the country, this had all the hallmarks of a terrorist incident.

''That is why the counter-terrorism command were called out to investigate.''

Officers were in the immediate vicinity as the attack unfolded and responded within one minute.

Police declared it a terrorist incident within eight minutes.

After chairing a meeting of the Government's Cobra emergencies committee earlier, Mrs May said the attack was ''every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life'' as the recent string of terror attacks apparently motivated by Islamist extremism.

''We will stop at nothing to defeat it,'' she added.

Images of the van showed it was rented from Pontyclun Van Hire in Pontyclun, near Cardiff.

Flowers have been laid near the scene, with one card reading: ''This is an attack on all Londoners - and on my community.''

Another read: ''I was so sorry to hear the news this morning. #NotInMyName''.
A man prays after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Police officers attend to the scene after a vehicle collided with pedestrians near a mosque in the Finsbury Park neighborhood of North London, Britain June 19, 2017. REUTERS/Neil Hall

The van attack near Finsbury Park Mosque follows warnings of an unprecedented anti-Muslim backlash after recent terrorist atrocities.

Police in London recorded a spike in the number of Islamophobic incidents in the wake of the London Bridge outrage earlier this month, with 20 recorded on June 6 - compared with a daily average of 3.5.

It was the highest daily tally for 2017, and also higher than the numbers registered after the Paris attacks in November 2015, and the murder of Lee Rigby in May 2013.

In a speech last week, a former police chief warned that anti-Muslim sentiment online has been "relentless" following the London Bridge attack on June 3.

Mak Chishty, an ex-Metropolitan Police commander who had been the country's most senior Muslim officer before his retirement, said: "The backlash has been something of a different scale."

While the circumstances and suspected motivations behind the Finsbury Park incident are yet to be made clear, it comes amid mounting concern over far-right extremism in the UK.

Warnings that the threat could be growing were raised after the conviction of Thomas Mair for the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox last year.

The Government's Prevent and Channel programmes, which work to intervene before individuals are drawn into violent extremism, have seen a rise in the number of referrals linked to far-right ideology.

Counter-terrorism police have said that, while the threat is not of the same gravity as that posed by Islamic State or al Qaida, there are extreme right-wing groups attempting to provoke violence and sow discord.

Figures on terror-related arrests have shown an increasing number of white suspects are being held.

In the year to the end of March, there were 113 arrests of white people, compared with 68 in the year before - an increase of 66%.

The white ethnic group accounted for 37% of all terrorism-related arrests in the 12 months, compared with 26% in the previous year.

Statistics on individuals' ethnicity are not broken down by type of suspected extremism.

Dr Alan Mendoza, executive director of the Henry Jackson Society think tank, said: "Coming a year after the murder of Jo Cox, we have witnessed what appears to be another hateful act in the community.

"It is looking increasingly likely that this is the latest example of a growing threat of far-right extremism in the UK.

"The Government must ensure urgently the security services have all the resources they need to investigate and prevent extremism-inspired attacks of whatever origin."
Police have launched a murder investigation after a teenager was found dead in Orrell Water Park in Wigan following a "brutal attack".

The 18-year-old woman was reported missing by her family at 7.20pm on Friday, when she failed to return from college.

Her friends said she had last been near the reservoirs.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) searched the area and at around 2.30am on Saturday discovered a body.

Detective Superintendent Howard Millington, form GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "First of all my thoughts are with the woman's family at this devastating time.

"This was a brutal attack on a young woman [of a] type rarely seen in Greater Manchester.

"We have a full investigation team working on finding out what exactly happened to her and to try and find the person who did this."

The student, who had sustained head injuries, is yet to be formally identified.

Mr Millington added: "I understand that there will be many people in the community extremely worried, things like this dont happen in Orrell, but I would like to reassure them that we are working as hard as we possibly can to get the answers to all of the questions.

"There will be a large police presence in the area for some time as we investigate and also on the streets surrounding the area as a precaution. If you have any concerns, please speak to our officers.

"This is very much an ongoing investigation, we will leave no stone unturned and myself and my team will not stop until we have found out exactly what happened and have brought whoever did this to justice."
Ivan Fandino performs a pass with a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

Spanish matador Ivan Fandino holds the ear of a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at Aire sur Adour arena southwestern France, on June 17, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

Spanish matador Ivan Fandino (C) is assisted after being impaled by a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

Spanish matador Ivan Fandino is impaled by a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

The bullfighter Ivan Fandino has died after being gored in a ring in France, becoming the second Spanish matador to be killed in less than 12 months after the death of Victor Barrio last July.

Entertaining a crowd Aire-sur-lAdour, southwestern France, on Saturday, Fandino tripped on his cape and fell to the floor, allowing the bull he was fighting to gore him savagely in his right flank.

The Basque bullfighter from Orduna near Bilbao was rushed out of the arena by his fellow bullfighters and underwent an emergency procedure in the bullrings surgery before being put in ambulance bound for a nearby hospital.

But he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Expand Close Spanish matador Ivan Fandino holds the ear of a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at Aire sur Adour arena southwestern France, on June 17, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Spanish matador Ivan Fandino holds the ear of a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at Aire sur Adour arena southwestern France, on June 17, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

The fatal goring of Victor Barrio last July in Teruel, Spain, led to controversy as some animal rights supporters expressed their joy at his death on social networks.

Barrio was the first Spanish bullfighter to have been killed in action since 1985.

Expand Close Ivan Fandino performs a pass with a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Ivan Fandino performs a pass with a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

According to Spanish newspaper El Mundo, Fandino had to be reanimated after suffering a heart attack while in the bullrings surgery. A second heart attack reportedly ended his life in the ambulance.

Expand Close Spanish matador Ivan Fandino (C) is assisted after being impaled by a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Spanish matador Ivan Fandino (C) is assisted after being impaled by a Baltasar Iban bull during a bullfight at the Corrida des Fetes on June 17, 2017 in Aire sur Adour, southwestern France. / AFP PHOTO / IROZ GAIZKAIROZ GAIZKA/AFP/Getty Images

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French President Emmanuel Macron in an Airbus A400M turboprop transport plane while flying to Le Bourget airport, north of Paris (Michel Euler/AP)

The French president has descended from the skies in a European military plane and Airbus and Boeing raced to impress with big plane orders as the Paris Air Show got under way.

Emmanuel Macron landed at the Bourget airfield in an Airbus A400M military transport plane to launch the aviation showcase, where the latest passenger jets will vie for attention with an F-35 warplane, drones and other high-tech hardware.

Mr Macron, trying to raise his international profile, appears to have chosen the A400M to give a boost of confidence to the long-troubled European military transporter project.

French fighter jets swooped overhead as the biennial aviation and defence industry event kicked off.

The industry is eager to show off its wares at the Paris show after a string of public relations embarrassments recently, from the United Airlines passenger getting dragged off a flight to British Airways' massive outage.

Airbus announced the first big deal of the week: a firm order for 100 single-aisle A320neo planes by General Electric's aircraft leasing arm, GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS).

The A320neo range of jets, designed to use less fuel than the original and widely used A320s, have proven popular and are competing with Boeing's 737 Max series in the short to mid-range market.

Boeing announced plans on Monday for a new, longer version of its 737 Max, the Max-10, with more flexibility and seating space.

Meanwhile, the world's two leading aircraft makers are facing growing competition from China.

Its first large passenger jet, the C919, took its maiden flight last month, and is competing for market share with the A320 and 737 ranges.

Airbus also announced that it is studying a more fuel-efficient version of the superjumbo A380, which has struggled to win a big customer base.

The A380plus could carry 80 more passengers and fly slightly further.

Airbus and Boeing are expected to bring in about 200 new orders each at this week's show at Le Bourget, down from past years when Asian and Middle East carriers were growing fast.

Mr Macron, who wants France to become more tech-savvy and comes off a big electoral win, tried on a virtual reality headset and checked out Airbus satellites, a drone designed to inspect planes and a turbo-generator for hybrid-energy jets.

French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, who recently returned from six months on the International Space Station, gave Mr Macron a photo of Earth he took from space and chatted about going to Mars as they looked at a model of Europe's Mars Rover 2020.

AP
Fighters from the SDF looking towards the northern town of Tabqa (Syrian Democratic Forces/AP)

Syrian Democratic Forces fighters look towards the northern town of Tabqa (Syrian Democratic Forces via AP)

Warplanes from the US-led coalition operating over Syrian government-controlled areas west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as potential targets, Russia's defence ministry said, a day after the US military shot down a Syrian air force jet.

Moscow condemned the downing of the Syrian jet after it dropped bombs near the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces that are fighting Islamic State in Syria's increasingly complicated civil war.

The downing of the warplane - the first time in the conflict that the US has shot down a Syrian jet - came as Iran fired several ballistic missiles at IS positions in eastern Syria in retaliation for two attacks by the extremists in Tehran earlier this month that killed 17 people.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by IS before Syrian government forces captured most of them in recent months.

The Russians appear to want to avoid further US targeting of Syrian warplanes or ground troops that have come under US attack in eastern Syria recently.

Moscow also called on the US military to provide a full account of why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian president Bashar Assad, has been providing air cover to the government's offensive since 2015.

But in April, Russia briefly suspended a hotline intended to prevent mid-air incidents with the US over Syria after the American military fired 59 missiles at a Syrian air base following a chemical weapons attack that Washington blamed on the Assad government.

The US military confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets shot down a Syrian Su-22 that had dropped bombs near the SDF.

Those forces, which are aligned with the US in the campaign against IS, warned Syrian government troops to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

In comments to Russian news agencies, Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov compared the downing to "helping the terrorists that the US is fighting against".

"What is this, if not an act of aggression?" he asked.

Viktor Ozerov, chairman of the defence and security committee at the upper chamber of the Russian parliament, described the defence ministry's statement as a warning.

"I'm sure that because of this, neither the US nor anyone else will take any actions to threaten our aircraft," he told the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency.

"That's why there's no threat of direct confrontation between Russia and American aircraft."

Mr Ozerov insisted that Russia will be tracking the coalition's jets, not shooting them down, but he added that "a threat for those jets may appear only if they take action that pose a threat to Russian aircraft".

Meanwhile, the US-backed opposition fighters said Assad's forces have been attacking them in the northern province of Raqqa and warned that if such attacks continue, the fighters will take action.

Clashes between Syrian troops and the SDF would escalate tensions and open a new front line in the many complex battlefields of the civil war, now in its seventh year.

Clashes between the Kurdish-led SDF and Syrian forces have been rare and some rebel groups have even accused them of co-ordinating on the battlefield.

The clashes come as both sides are battling IS, with SDF fighters now focusing on their march into the northern city of Raqqa, which the extremist group has declared to be its capital.

Government forces have also been attacking IS in northern, central and southern Syria, seizing 25,000 square kilometres (9,600 square miles) and reaching the Iraqi border for the first time in years.

SDF spokesman Talal Sillo said the government wants to thwart the SDF offensive to capture Raqqa.

He said government forces began attacking SDF on Saturday, using warplanes, artillery and tanks in areas that SDF had liberated from IS.

Mr Sillo also warned that if "the regime continues in its offensive against our positions in Raqqa province, this will force us to retaliate with force".

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks Syria's war, said government forces expanded their presence in Raqqa province by capturing from IS the town of Rasafa.

Iran's launch of its ballistic missiles against IS hit Syria's eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night and was its first such strike in the conflict.

Previously, it has been providing crucial support to Assad's forces.

Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard said it launched six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan.

Video on Iranian state TV showed the weapons on truck missile launchers in the daylight before the night-time volley.

The missiles flew over Iraq before striking what the Guard called an IS command centre and suicide car bomb operation in Deir el-Zour, more than 600 kilometres (370 miles) away.

The extremists have been trying to fortify their positions in the Syrian city in the face of a coalition onslaught on Raqqa.

Syrian opposition activist Omar Abu Laila said two Iranian missiles fell in and near the eastern town of Mayadeen, an IS stronghold.

There were casualties, said Abu Laila, who is originally from Deir el-Zour and currently lives in Germany, where he runs a website about the province.

IS did not immediately acknowledge the attack.

Iraqi politician Abdul-Bari Zebari said his country agreed to the missile overflight after co-ordination with Iran, Russia and Syria.

AP
A team of medical researchers from the University of Aberdeen have said that so-called broken heart syndrome can leave physical scars that never disappear. Stock Image

Songwriters, poets and novelists have long mused over whether time truly heals everything.

Charles Dickens toyed over whether the bitter Miss Havisham would ever recover from being jilted at the altar, and for many historians, Queen Victoria's black dress came to symbolise her irreparable suffering over Prince Albert's death.

But a new study has apparently put their agonising to bed and concluded that not even the clock can always mend a broken heart.

A team of medical researchers from the University of Aberdeen have said that so-called "broken heart syndrome" can leave physical scars that never disappear.

Until now, it was thought the heart fully recovered from the syndrome, but new research suggests the muscle actually suffers long-term damage.

This could explain why people with the syndrome tend to have the same life expectancy as those people who suffer a heart attack.

The British Heart Foundation-funded study followed 52 patients, aged between 28 and 87, over four months, who suffered with what is officially known as takotsubo syndrome.

It is provoked - mostly in women - when the heart muscle is suddenly "stunned", causing the left ventricle to change shape, and is typically prompted by "intense emotional or physical stress".

It affects the heart's ability to pump blood and, according to the BHF, there remains no known medical cure.

The study is published in the 'Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography'.
Fire seen by the swimming pool of the Campement Kangaba tourist resort near Bamako (AP)

Islamic extremists who stormed a resort area in Mali popular with foreigners killed five people, including a Portuguese soldier who had been serving in the EU mission to stabilise the West African country beset by mounting extremism.

The death toll rose after a Malian soldier who was wounded in the Sunday afternoon attack died of his injuries.

Three civilians - a Chinese citizen, a Malian and a French-Gabonese dual national - were also killed in the worst terror attack to strike Bamako since late 2015.

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the Malian victim worked for the European delegation in Bamako.

The attack struck a resort area that was considered safe enough that it was an approved rest and recreation location for soldiers with the EU mission.

It was not immediately clear how the attackers managed to overpower the security staff and shoot at guests.

Mali's special forces arrived on the scene not long after the reports of gunfire erupting from Campement Kangaba, known for its three swimming pools and serene surroundings as an escape from the bustling capital's heat and traffic.

Initially the country's security minister said one of the wounded attackers had managed to escape but on Monday officials said they had accounted for all the jihadists.

"At this hour, all of the terrorists have been killed. The situation is under control," Mali's security minister Salif Traore said.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene on Sunday afternoon, with one man saying the first jihadist on the scene arrived by motorcycle, shouting "Allah Akbar."

Three others subsequently arrived in a vehicle and began firing their weapons.

One of the attackers was subdued by a French soldier who happened to be at Campement Kangaba on the weekend.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, which took place amid the final week of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

However, the attack resembled a number of others carried out by the local affiliate of al Qaida in West Africa over the past two years.

It was not immediately known how the attackers managed to breach security at Campement Kangaba, where officials from the EU and UN missions as well as members of the French military were spending time.

Sunday's violence also came about a week after the US state department warned of possible attacks on Western diplomatic missions and other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent.

Religious extremism in Mali was once limited to northern areas, prompting the French military in 2013 to lead a military operation to oust jihadis from power in the major towns in the north.

But the militants have continued targeting Malian forces and peacekeepers, making it the deadliest UN mission in the world.

There are no French troops based in Bamako, but about 2,000 French troops are based in northern Mali fighting Islamic extremists.

French President Emmanuel Macron was informed about the attack and was following the events carefully, according to an official in his office.

In recent years, the extremists have become more brazen, attacking sites frequented by Westerners in the capital of Bamako.

In March 2015, five people died when militants hit a popular restaurant in the capital.

A devastating attack on the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako later that year left 20 dead - six Malians and 14 foreigners.

That attack was jointly claimed by both the regional al Qaida affiliate and a group known as Al Mourabitoun, which was founded by extremist Moktar Belmoktar after he fell out with al Qaida leaders.

In a video released in March, jihadis said those two were joining together along with two Mali-based terror groups.

AP
The damaged USS Fitzgerald is towed into port at the US naval base in Yokosuka (US Navy/AP)

The US Navy has promised a full investigation into a collision between a destroyer and a container ship off Japan that killed seven sailors.

The navy's acting secretary Sean Stackley said "we are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our fellow shipmates".

He also praised their colleagues for saving the USS Fitzgerald from further damage and bringing it back to port.

Mr Stackley promised to "fully investigate" the cause of the collision at about 2.20am on Saturday between the Fitzgerald and a Philippine-flagged container ship four times its size, as many of the crew slept.

Navy divers recovered the bodies after the severely-damaged Fitzgerald returned to the The 7th Fleet's home in Yokosuka, Japan, with assistance from tug boats.

The dead sailors were aged between 19 and 37.

C ommander of the 7th Fleet Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin described a harrowing scene as sailors fought to keep the ship from sinking.

Most of the damage was below the waterline, including a large gash near the keel, he said.

"The water flow was tremendous, and so there wasn't a lot of time in those spaces that were open to the sea. And as you can see now, the ship is still listing, so they had to fight the ship to keep it above the surface. It was traumatic," he said.

Vice Admiral Aucoin said one machinery room and two berthing areas for 116 crew members were severely damaged from the impact to the ship's side.

Navy spokesman Lieutenant Paul Newell said the victims may have been killed by the impact of the collision or drowned in the flooding.

The Fitzgerald's captain, Commander Bryce Benson, suffered a head injury in the collision and was airlifted to the US Naval Hospital in Yokosuka. Two other crew members suffered cuts and bruises and were also flown out by helicopter.

Conditions were clear at the time of the collision, though the area is particularly busy with sea traffic.

The damage to the destroyer suggests that the container ship, the ACX Crystal, might have slammed into it at a high speed, raising questions about communication between the two vessels in an area where as many as 400 ships pass through every day, according to Japan's coastguard.

Most congestion occurs in the early hours of the day, and fast currents make it a tricky area that requires experience and skill to navigate.

The ACX Crystal weighs 29,060 tons and 730 feet, much larger than the 8,315-ton destroyer.

The container ship's left bow was dented and scraped, and accident investigators from the Japanese transport ministry found further damage below its waterline.

Footage from Japanese broadcaster NHK showed a sharp horizontal cut across the bow area, which looked like a shark's mouth. Many scratches were also seen in the frontal area.

Some ship trackers showed the container ship making a U-turn before the collision, a move that has raised questions about what happened.

The coastguard questioned crew members of the ACX Crystal and is treating the collision as a case of possible professional negligence, said Masayuki Obara, a regional official.

All of the ACX Crystal's 20-member Filipino crew were safe, according to Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen, which operates the ship.

Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe sent a sympathy message to US president Donald Trump, saying: "We are struck by deep sorrow.

"I express my heartfelt solidarity to America at this difficult time."

Jennifer Adkison of Granbury, Texas, whose 20-year-old son, Bruce, a fifth-generation sailor, survived the collision, said in a Facebook message that families were grieving for those who died and trying to get clothing and other items to survivors who lost all their possessions.

"The only other day I have been so overwhelmed with joy to hear my son's voice was the day he was born," Ms Adkison said.

Mia Sykes of Raleigh, North Carolina, said her 19-year-old son, sailor Brayden Harden, from Herrin, Illinois, kept diving to try to save his shipmates until their flooded sleeping berth began running out of air pockets, while other survivors - believing their ship was under attack - hurried to man the guns.

Ms Sykes said her son told her that four men in his berth, including those sleeping on bunks above and below him died, while three died in the berth above his.

"They did what they were trained to do," she said.

"You have to realise most of them are 18, 19 and 20-year-olds living with guilt. But I told him, 'There's a reason you're still here, and make that count'."

AP
CONCORD- The state will not seek the death penalty in the murder case involving a former Concord High School star athlete.

Jacquise Candrell Moore, 25, was charged with the murder of Cynthia Marie Boza, 45, in January 2016.

According to court documents, signed by Chief Assistant District Attorney Ashlie Shanley earlier this month, the state of North Carolina has given notice that it does not intend to seek the death penalty in Moores case.

The background

Boza, 45, was reported missing by her family on Dec. 6 2015 to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. She was last seen on Dec. 3, 2015 driving away from her home in the 400 block of Jones Street in Charlotte in a gold 2003 Ford Taurus.

Court documents say her family became suspicious when she had missed important dates, including one family members birthday.

Her body was found in the woods near 1101 Poole Place, off Central Drive in Concord, on Jan. 14 and the Medical Examiners office identified the body and confirmed her death was a homicide. They have not released the cause of death or how long she had been dead.

Moore was arrested by the Forsyth Sheriffs Department on Forum Parkway in Rural Hall. According to new court documents, he was arrested on an outstanding warrant for felony assault by strangulation which was taken out on him by his childs mother in Alabama.

Officers said Moore was driving a gold Ford Taurus at the time of his arrest.

Court documents say that Moore knew Boza but he told officers he had not seen her since late November when she was supposed to come and meet him in Winston-Salem. He told officers she never arrived and he hadnt heard from her since then.

Detectives applied BlueStar Forensic, a reagent used to reveal blood stains that have been washed out, to Bozas vehicle to search for blood and it reacted to areas on the passenger door, passenger floor board and trunk, the documents said.

Detectives also received information from AT&T Wireless for Bozas phone number and plotted the phone in the area of her address on Dec. 3 and then at the Poole Place address later that day.

It has been confirmed that Moore stayed at 1101 Poole Place with his cousin on and off for six months.

He is still in the Cabarrus County Jail awaiting trial under no bond.
Relaxation in filing GST returns till September 2017

The GST Council meeting on June 18, 2017 delivered key resolutions ahead of the GST launch at midnight of June 30. The Council opted for a relaxation in return filing until September, meaning no late fees or penalties will be levied in the interim period.

RELATED: Tax Compliance Advisory

GSTR-1 with invoice level details for the month of July have to be filed by September 5, and for the month of August by September 20. Correspondingly, the GSTR-2 and GSTR-3 forms for these two months must be filed thereafter. The summary return form in GSTR-3B must be filed on a self-declaration basis for the first two months  July and August  by the 20th day of the following month, after paying taxes.

Resolution on the e-way bill system (electronic way bill for movement of goods) could not be reached and has been deferred to the GST Council meeting on June 30.

GST Council amends rates, approves anti-profiteering rules

The GST Council released amended rates of taxation for the hospitality sector on June 18. Hotels charging between US$39 and US$116 (Rs 2,500 to Rs 7,500) will be subject to 18 percent GST, while hotels charging upwards of US$116 (Rs 7,500) will attract 28 percent GST. Restaurants in these hotels will be subject to 18 percent GST, at par with air-conditioned establishments.

Integrated GST on shipping vessels will now attract a 5 percent tax. Also, input credit will not be available on ice cream, pan masala, and tobacco.

Further, the Council cleared anti-profiteering rules that will compel firms to reduce the prices of goods benefitting from lower taxation rates under GST. An anti-profiteering regulatory body will be setup for two years.

Previously, the GST Council widened the scope of a concessional tax payment scheme for small businesses and restaurants on June 11. This was in addition to revised GST rates for 66 items, including kitchen goods and movie tickets, the complete list of which is available on the website of the Central Board of Excise and Customs.

RELATED: Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India: Key Terms and Concepts

Aadhaar details mandatory for bank accounts, financial transactions

The federal government has now made Aadhaar (biometric identification number) mandatory for opening a new bank account.

The same is compulsory when conducting any financial transaction worth US$776.19 (Rs 50,000) and above. This amends the Prevention of Money Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules, 2005, and mandates the quoting of the Aadhaar number along with the permanent account number (PAN) or Form 60 by individuals, companies, and partnership firms.

Meanwhile, according to a notice released by the Department of Revenue, existing bank accounts will need to be linked with the Aadhaar system by December 31, 2017, failing which the accounts will cease to be operational.

After June 1, a person opening a bank account in India will need to compulsorily furnish proof of application for enrolment in Aadhaar, and submit the Aadhaar number to the bank within six months of opening the account.

RELATED: The Aadhaar Card: Now a Mandatory Proof of Identification

Petrol, diesel price to change daily in India

From June 16, Indias fuel sector moved to a system of daily price change for petrol and diesel. This means that petrol and diesel will be sold in sync with international rates (price of crude oil), a system currently followed by the U.S. and Australia.

The state-run oil companies Indian Oil Corp. Ltd (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd (HPCL) hold 90 percent of the countrys fuel market share, and previously tried the new dynamic pricing model in Udaipur, Jamshedpur, Puducherry, Chandigarh and Visakhapatnam since May 1.

The new pricing policy will hopefully reduce volatility in the fuel market, and ensure no drastic change in the domestic selling prices. Further, the benefits or costs of any change in the international oil prices can be carried unto the dealers and end-users. This also creates transparency in the sector.

Related Reading:

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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.

In this issue of India Briefing Magazine, we discuss payroll processing and reporting in India, and the various regulations and tax norms that impact salary and wage computation. Further, we explain Indias complex social security system and gratuity law, and how it applies to companies. Finally, we describe the importance of IT infrastructure, compliance, and confidentiality when processing payroll in India.
Bamako, Mali, Jun 19 (IBNS); At least two people were killed by terrorists after they stormed a luxury resort in Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa.

Malian security minister Salif Traore told AFP news agency that it was a jihadist attack, while conforming the casualties.

"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened and hostages have been released," the minister said, while adding, "Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese."

However, the minister added that Malian security forces have gunned down all four terrorists involved in the attack.

"We have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed," he said while adding that the search for the other two bodies are presently on.

Meanwhile, Reuters news agency quoted a ministry spokesperson as saying that at least 32 visitors have been rescued from the resort after the Malian forces, backed by UN security forces intervened and took control of the situation.

The attack comes after the US embassy's warning, who predicted attacks on westerners in Mali.

The US embassy in Bamako had said that there is a chance of "possible future attacks on Western diplomatic missions, other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent".

A similar siege in 2015 in Bamako's Radisson Blu hotel had accounted for 20 lives.

Later, the AQIM, the Al-Qaeda's north African arm said it was behind the attack.

Mali has been witnessing Islamist insurgency for a decade now.
Kabul, June 19 (IBNS): The Afghanistan-India Air Corridor was inaugurated in Kabul by country's President Ashraf Ghani on Monday.

The first Delhi-bound cargo plane with 60 tonnes of medicinal plants left Afghanistan capital Kabul, to mark a new beginning in the diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The President said the corridor aimed to create more oppurtunities.

The temporary solution couldnt meet fundamental issues of the country in this regard; therefore, steps were taken to implement the Afghan-Indian Air Corridor scheme," the President was quoted as saying by Pajhwok Afghan News.

Afghan Embassy India tweeted: "Operationalization of AFG-India Air C is a significant step towards reaching th target of $1 B trade/yr b/w th 2 countries n th next 3 yrs."

The flight has arrived in India.

Announcing the matter, Indian ambassador in Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra tweeted: "The first flight from Kabul of the new India-Afghanistan Air Cargo Corridor lands in Delhi."

Image 1: Afghan Embassy India Twitter page

Image 2: Manpreet Vohra Twitter page
Bamako, Mali, June 19 (IBNS) Suspected jihadists on Sunday attacked a luxury resort in Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa.

According to an UN mission official, the terror attack is underway at the resort area in Mali's capital while the government in Mali said an operation is underway.

According to reports several gunmen have attacked the resort Le Campement, outside capital Bamako. The country has been combating an Islamist insurgency for several years.

Security forces are in place. Campement Kangaba is blocked off and an operation is under way, said Malian security ministry spokesman Baba Cisse, according to The Independent.

According to BBC, residents near the resort heard shots being fired at Le Campement resort in Dougourakoro, which is to the east of Bamako.

Reports said the Malian troops and soldiers from France's Bakhane counter-terrorist force are at the site with no figure of casualty yet known.

Despite progress towards peace in Mali, terrorist attacks remain a major obstacle, the head of the United Nations peacekeeping operation there told the Security Council only this Friday.

Mahamat Saleh Annadif, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission, known by its French acronym, MINUSMA, reported significant progress on implementing the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation over the past months, but agreed that terrorists and extremists were gaining ground as existing tensions threatened to derail achievements.

Mali's central region is a continuing source of concern, said Annadif as he encouraged the Council to focus on the pressing security challenges and to send a strong message that civilian killings must end while considering the renewal of MINUSMA's mandate.

Image: Of the resort from their official website / A UN peacekeeping force image
Bangkok, June 19 (IBNS): The United Nations has urged Thailand on Monday to amend its harsh punishments offered to people for insulting monarch (lese majeste).

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said it was troubled by the higher rate of prosecution and disparity in sentences for the offence.

The UN said that around 24% of people who were charged, walked free between 2011-2013, according to statistics provided by Thailand. But the percentage has dropped sharply to only 4% in the last year. The UN said that people are getting lesser scope to defend themselves against the charges.

The urge from the UN came after a man was awarded a 35 years imprisonment for writing posts on Facebook against the monarch, earlier this month.

Another similar punishment was awarded to a 48 years old tour guide, Pongsak Sriboonsang.

He was imprisoned for 60 years for writing Facebook posts which criticised the monarch. Later, for pleading guilty, the sentence was halved.

The punishment was pronounced by a Bangkok court.

Image: Creative Commons/Wikipedia.
Dhaka, June 18 (IBNS): Landslides hit Khagrachhari and Moulvibazar districts of Bangladesh on Sunday and left at least four people killed, media reports said.

According to local media reports, in Khagrachhari, two siblings were killed.

In Moulvibazar, landslides claimed the lives of a woman and her daughter.

In Khagrachhari, two brothers -- Nur Nabi, 13, and Hossain, 7, of Patachhara union were asleep when a huge chunk of mud collapsed on their house at Gudamchhara village around 6:00am, The Daily Star reported quoting police.

The bodies of the two siblings were later recovered.

The other members of the family were safe, a police official was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.

Landslide in Maulvibazar claimed the lives of Achhia Begum, 35, wife of Abdus Sattar of Dimai village, and her daughter Fahmida Begum, 13, reports said.

More than 150 people were killed in Bangladesh last week when landslides hit hilly districts of Rangamati, Chittagong, Bandarban and Coxs Bazar.

Image: Internet Grab
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1. Anupam Kher Feels Extremely Honoured To Illuminate The United Nations Heaquarters In New York

Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir.@UN  A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher) on Jun 18, 2017 at 8:07pm PDT

Sharing the 23-second long video of the ceremony, Kher wrote, "Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir. @UN."

2. A Bollywood Ready Suhana Khan Manages To Steal Daddy SRK's Thunder Like A Pro!

Viral Bhayani

Gauri recently designed a contemporary Indian restaurant in Mumbai and a fleet of Bollywood stars made their way for the inauguration. From Anil Kapoor looking dapper in all blue formals to besties Jacqueline and Sonam Kapoor nailing their fashion, A-listers walked in like it was a red carpet event. And in the midst of all this, we saw Gauri's family walking in. While SRK looked casual, his daughter Suhana took us all by surprise.

3. This Video Of Priyanka Chopra Will Inspire You To Pave Your Own Path And Create A Legacy

What is the choice  that you walk a path like everyone else, dressed in suits, go to work, and come back, and never have a legacy, OR instead swim upstream like a trout against norm and then whatever little you achieve is only yours. Its not like everyone else," she says.

4. Kriti Sanon Has An Important Message For All The Trolls, Slams Them For Moral Policing Women!

Kriti said, Priyanka is someone who represents India in so many ways and has made us proud in the entire world. Shes not someone who will do anything that harms Indias pride."

5. Pahlaj Nihalani Shows Double Standards Again, Doesnt Want NOC From Gandhi Family For Indu Sarkar

Indu Sarkar does not name anyone. There is no mention of Mrs Indira Gandhi or Sanjay Gandhi or anyone else in the trailer. You are only presuming the film is about the people you mention because of the physical resemblance," he said.
One of the best films of 2015, Badlapur, the bloody revenge thriller that saw Varun Dhawan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui giving out one of their best performances, was gut-wrenching and carved a place in memories. The film brought filmmaker Sriram Raghavan to the limelight. He was appreciated by critics as well as audiences so much so that he became one of the most sought after directors.

quora

And now the wait is over! Once again collaborating with Radhika Apte, who played a small role in Badlapur, the director is all set for his next titled Shoot The Piano Player. Interestingly, the movie also stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Tabu in prominent roles, and the shooting for the film has already begun. Furthermore, Vinay Pathak and Ashwini Kalsekar are also touted to be a part of the project.

What roles are these actors playing?

Radhika was signed recently but had been prepping for the part for a while. Ayushmann, who plays a musician in the film, started attending workshops two months ago, while Tabu kicked off prep last month. Radhika and Tabu will join Ayushmann in Pune for the first schedule this week, a source told the daily.

I missed the match. But started something really exciting. Great day at office on day 1 in Pune. Sriram Raghavan's Shoot The Piano Player. #ShootBegins A post shared by Ayushmann Khurrana (@ayushmannk) on Jun 18, 2017 at 9:38am PDT

With Amit Trivedi on board as the music composer and a talented cast, Sriram Raghavans Shoot The Piano Player is much-anticipated!
Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan is a global phenomena as far as his acting prowess is concerned, and right behind him is his wifey Gauri Khan, who has also earned a huge name for herself in interior designing.

Virak Bhayani

Gauri recently designed a contemporary Indian restaurant in Mumbai and a fleet of Bollywood stars made their way for the inauguration.



From Anil Kapoor looking dapper in all blue formals to besties Jacqueline and Sonam Kapoor nailing their fashion, A-listers walked in like it was a red carpet event.

Viral Bhayani

And in the midst of all this, we saw Gauri's family walking in. While SRK looked casual, his daughter Suhana took us all by surprise.

Viral Bhayani

Wearing a gorgeous orange bandage dress, Suhana looked petite, graceful and Bollywood ready. Posing with her father for the shutterbugs, she looked confident like never before.

Viral Bhayani

Director Farah Khan was also present for the bash and looking at their conversations, we are wondering if she is considering Suhana for her next film. We have to admit, Suhana has undergone a major transformation.

Viral Bhayani

Suhana was the star of the evening and we can't wait for her make that true on-screen as well.
Veteran actor Anupam Kher is proud and extremely honoured because he was chosen for illuminating the United Nations headquarters, ahead of International Day of Yoga in New York.

Kher took to Twitter to share the big news. Apart from sharing the news, he also expressed his gratitude to India's ambassador to US, Syed Akbaruddin and thanked him for giving him the privilege.

Instagram

Sharing the 23-second long video of the ceremony, Kher wrote, "Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir. @UN."

Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir.@UN  A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher) on Jun 18, 2017 at 8:07pm PDT

For the uninitiated, Anupam Kher is in the US currently for the premiere of his film The Big Sick and also shared a series of pictures from the event.

He will also be seen in Toilet: Ek Prem Katha and the biopic on former Indian PM Dr Manmohan Singh in the film The Accidental Prime Minister based on the 2014 book penned by Sanjaya Baru.
On International women's day this year, Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon has given the world an important message. In the video, Kriti had shared, We will hear a lot of words today: Girl Power, womens rights, gender equality, blah blah blah. Meanwhile, our streets are still unsafe and others still decide what we should wear. All we do is talk."

Here we go again..! #HappyWhatever @ms.takenfashion A post shared by Kriti (@kritisanon) on Mar 7, 2017 at 10:43pm PST

While the internet was full of meaningful and pretentious messages on gender equality and why women rights are important, Kriti's post gave us a reality check which was too right to be ignored.

And now, in a recent interview with HT, Kriti commented on the whole moral policing on social media and the trolling that followed PC's picture with PM Modi. Kriti said,

BCCL

Priyanka is someone who represents India in so many ways and has made us proud in the entire world. Shes not someone who will do anything that harms Indias pride."

And then she made a point that we all collectively as a society have forgotten. She said,

Its high time that people stopped commenting on what women wear. Its our choice. Even Modi sir was not wearing a kurta pyjama; he was wearing a suit, which is Western. And Priyanka was wearing something very decent. It wasnt vulgar attire. People need to stop telling women what to wear, or else it should be mentioned that if youre meeting so and so, please wear a burkha.

A point well made, Kriti.
In another gruesome crime against women in Bihar, a minor was allegedly gang-raped, and her private parts were mutilated before she was thrown out of the moving train in Bihar.

The matter came to light when the victim and the survivor was brought to Patna for treatment where the class 10th student told her ordeal. The survivor told that on Friday in early morning hours, she had gone to answer natures call in the fields of Lakhisarai district, where two men, Santosh Yadav and Mrityiunjay Yadav raped her.

AFP

Later six other men joined them and they also raped her. After raping her, they took her on-board a train where they raped her again and wounded her private parts before she was thrown out of the moving train.

"I could hear them speaking that they should kill me and they threw me out of the train. When I gained consciousness, I was in a hospital," she said. She was found unconscious near Kiul junction and passerby informed the police who took her to hospital. But district hospital didnt have enough facilities to treat her, therefore she was referred to Patna.

But there too, her she faced problems as she had to lie on the floor for hours before she received medical attention. "She has received at least two dozen stitches in her private parts, both her feet are irrevocably damaged, her thigh bone is fractured and she has serious injuries on her waist. Her condition is very critical," a PMCH doctor told DNA on condition of anonymity.

Source told that CM Nitish has taken note of the incident and has instructed police to conduct raids to arrest to accused as soon as possible.

Reuters

The local police, however, initially tried to cover up the case by telling that it was a love affair. But her injuries and media outcry forces police to register case in the matter. One accused, a juvenile, has been arrested by the police.
Crime against women seems to have reduced in the capital this year. According to figures released by Delhi Police, 836 cases of rape have been reported till May 31 compared with 924 in the same period last year. Molestation cases have gone down from 1,841 to 1,412.

The trend is attributed to a slew of measures taken by police commissioner Amulya Patnaik. These include deploying women patrol teams in markets, placing women officers in key posts and holding self-defence classes.

Representational Image

Heinous crimes such as murder and robberies have also declined: 1,293 robberies have been registered till May 31 compared with 2,374 in the first five months of 2016. The corresponding figures in case of murders are 205 and 206.

Street crimes, such as snatching, have reduced as well. A total of 3,717 cases have been registered in the first 150 days of 2017 compared with 4,255 last year. This means one case an hour is being reported on an average. The number of fatalities due to road accidents has gone down, too: 545 people have been killed till May compared with 642 in fatal mishaps in 2016.
Post the abduction and killing of two Chinese citizens in Balochistan, the Chinese social media users have now demanded their government to take action and send troops to Pakistan to hunt down the abductors, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on Sunday, even while Beijing has told State media outlets to play down the incident.

Reuters

The abduction took place on June 8, when the two were kidnapped in Balochistan near its capital Quetta. Later the ISIS claimed that both Li Zingyang (24) and Meng Lisi (26) had been killed. The Chinese authorities, however, said it is still verifying the information with the Pakistani authorities even 10 days later.

Though initially it was said that they were language teachers, but in order to douse the anger, both the Chinese state media and Pakistani officials have changed the narrative of them being the preachers and missionaries who were going door to door.

This attempt to shift the narrative has stirred fresh anger, the SCMP reported. "One user responded with dark humour: 'The Pakistani government said they were told that the two Chinese were missionaries. I was just wondering, who told them?'"

"How much blood do we still have to spill until the government is willing to take action?" wrote Deng Dabao.
A father-in-law from Ahmedabad is doing everything in his power to receive a no-objection certificate from a Rajasthan hospital so that he can donate his kidney to his daughter-in-law, Bedamidevi Vaishnav.

For Hemdas Vaishnav, Nedamidevi is his daughter. A farmer in Jaisalmer, Hemdas said, "She is the wife of my son and the mother of my grandchildren. By saving her life, I am saving my family's life."

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While for fathers it's easier to donate a kidney to their children, for fathers-in-law, it's no less than a Herculean task. It's only when Hemdas receives a no-objection certificate will he be able to donate a kidney to his 'bahu' at the Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Hospital (IKDRC), Ahmedabad.

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Bedamidevi, who was diagnosed with kidney failure last year, said: "I would never have expected my father-in-law to donate his kidney to me especially when my family, including my father, had refused to do so."

Over 8,000 kidney transplants have taken place in Gujarat in past years but experts have exclaimed that a father-in-law donating a kidney to his daughter-in-law is a rare occurrence.
In another gruesome crime against women, a college girl in Bihar's Khagaria district was allegedly raped and set ablaze by her boyfriend at her own house.

The boy entered the house of the girl and raped her before pouring kerosene oil on her and the set her ablaze in Temtha Karari village, Superintendent of Police Minu Kumari told PTI. After committing the crime, he left the girl's room by locking the door from outside.

Representational Image/PTI

Neighbours and relatives rushed to save her after hearing her cries. They broke the door and took her to the hospital where she died.

But before dying she gave her statement and blamed her lover for this heinous crime, the SP said.

The accused and his relatives were absconding. Both the victim as well as the accused belong to the same village and were studying in the same college.
Most of us dont know much about Ran Nath Kovind whos BJPs presidential candidate for presidential election. But the Modi-Shah duo has a knack for throwing surprises and this time too, they caught pundits speculating any of the big names like LK Adavni, Sushma Swaraj and others to be BJPs candidate, off guard.

PTI

But whos Ram Nath Kovind? Any clues? Yes, hes served Bihar as governor, but apart from a few things that he was born in Kanpur and was a lawyer by profession, not many things are there in open about Indias potential president whose election is scheduled to take place on July 20th. Read more

1. Bihar Minor Gangraped, Private Parts Mutilated, And Then Thrown Out From A Moving Train

In another gruesome crime against women in Bihar, a minor was allegedly gang-raped, and her private parts were mutilated before she was thrown out of the moving train in Bihar.

24 coaches

The matter came to light when the victim and the survivor was brought to Patna for treatment where the class 10th student told her ordeal. The survivor told that on Friday in early morning hours, she had gone to answer natures call in the fields of Lakhisarai district, where two men, Santosh Yadav and Mrityiunjay Yadav raped her. Read more

2. After ISIS Killed Two Of Their Citizens In Pak, Chinese Demand Govt To Send Troops For Revenge

Post the abduction and killing of two Chinese citizens in Balochistan, the Chinese social media users have now demanded their government to take action and send troops to Pakistan to hunt down the abductors, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on Sunday, even while Beijing has told State media outlets to play down the incident.

reuters

The abduction took place on June 8, when the two were kidnapped in Balochistan near its capital Quetta. Later the ISIS claimed that both Li Zingyang (24) and Meng Lisi (26) had been killed. The Chinese authorities, however, said it is still verifying the information with the Pakistani authorities even 10 days later. Read more

3. Mumbai's Taj Mahal Palace Is Officially The First Building In India To Get Trademarked

Mumbai's famous Taj Mahal Palace, a treasure-trove of invaluable evocation, has been serving as a testament to its regal legacy and innumerable anecdotes.

taj hotels

Everyone who's ever visited this dreamer's land has never come back without their personal account of gazing the majestic building, that often looks ethereal. Read more

4. Bihar Girl Raped And Set Ablaze By Lover Inside Her Own House

In another gruesome crime against women, a college girl in Bihar's Khagaria district was allegedly raped and set ablaze by her boyfriend at her own house.

pti

The boy entered the house of the girl and raped her before pouring kerosene oil on her and the set her ablaze in Temtha Karari village, Superintendent of Police Minu Kumari told PTI. After committing the crime, he left the girl's room by locking the door from outside. Read more

5. ISRO's Mangalyaan Completes 1000 Earth Days, Much More Than The Planned Six Month Lifespan

The Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) maiden interplanetary mission, Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), completed 1000 earth days in its orbit on Monday, well beyond its designed mission life of six months.

isro

The mission of ISRO, which was launched on November 5, 2013 by PSLV-C25, an expandable launch system, entered the Martian orbit on September 24, 2014 in its first attempt. Read more
After doctors at the Safdarjung Hospital declared a five-month-old fetus dead, they handed the aborted baby over to its family in a polythene bag.

On Sunday morning, a 28-year-old woman underwent an emergency operation at the hospital after she started bleeding heavily. She was in her fifth month of pregnancy.

india today

The surgery was performed at 5:45 AM and within half an hour, the doctors told the family that the baby was born dead. At 6:15 AM, the doctors wrapped the fetus in cloth and polythene and gave it to the family.

It was when the family was taking the baby to the cremation ground did they detect movement in the bag. Upon unwrapping the bag, they discovered that the baby was alive. The family rushed back to the hospital and told the doctors. The baby was admitted and is currently being treated at the hospital.

whattoexpect

The family has blamed the medical staff for negligence. The authorities are investigating the case.

"I will call it a second trimester abortion as the woman was already five months pregnant and there is international rule stating that there should be no attempt to revive a premature baby found dead and having a weight below 500 gms. The doctors followed the norm and did not attempt to revive it," said Pratima Mittal, head of the hospital's Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department, reports IANS.
Fighter aircraft maker Lockheed Martin has signed an agreement with Indias Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter jets in India. The company now eyes orders worth billions of dollars from the Indian Air Force and its pressing ahead to shift its Texas plant to India.

But Modi government had made it mandatory for the foreign suppliers to make planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base which would help in cutting imports.

AP

Though PM Modis make in India drive clashes with US President Donald Trumps America first campaign under which he has been asking companies to invest in the USA and create jobs.

But Lockheed Martin seems to have taken care of that as while announcing the agreement at Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, a joint statement by the firms said.

Sweden jet maker Saab has also offered to make its Gripen fighter in India. Though its yet to announce a local partner for the plane which often seen as the modern alternative of f-16.

Sweden's Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

AFP

The announcement came days before PM Modi is scheduled to travel To the US to meet Donald Trump on June 26.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Nearly 3200 F-16 are flown by 26 air forces across the world including Pakistan. India has been offered the Block 70 model of F-16 which is most modern of all F-16s.

This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India with the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter, the statement said.
The wreckage of Indian Ar Force's (IAF) Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft has been spotted after four days of widespread search operation.

inkhabar

"Wreckage found. Close to the last known position of aircraft. As of now weather is bad and the place has dense foliage. Further update follows," said the IAF in an official statement.

ap

Two pilots were on board the aircraft and their location is yet to be ascertained. However, it is being presumed that they did not survive the crash.

The jet lost contact on May 23 following which massive search operations were launched to track the jet. However, bad weather did serve as an impediment in the rescue mission.

ani

Four ground teams of IAF personnel, nine of the Indian Army and two of state administration, were deployed on a different axis to scour the area.

The aircraft airborne from Tezpur Air Base lost radar and radio contact approximately 60 km North of Tezpur.
At one of the most treacherous and least restored stretches of China's Great Wall, a line of mules halted upon emerging from the gloom of a dense forest draped in mist and dew. Laden with 150 kg (330 pounds) of bricks each, the seven animals finally got moving in response to the coaxing and swearing of their masters, eager to gain altitude before the sun climbed high in the sky.

A wild and remote section of the Great wall is being fixed up using only mules for muscle, as no heavy machinery can be set up the steep slopes. Reuters' Damir Sagolj went to the remote stretch to meet the four-legged construction workers.

1. Vegetation grows over parts of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall, located in Huairou District, north of Beijing, China.

Reuters

Reuters

3. Cheng Yongmao, the engineer in charge of the reconstruction project on the Jiankou section of the Great Wall, looks as the sun rises over the wall.

Reuters

4. A cameraman documenting the reconstruction project of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall, films as the sun rises over the wall.

Reuters

5. A man walks behind a mule carrying bricks up the steep path towards the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

"The path is too steep and the mountains are too high, so bricks can only be transported by mules," said local mule owner Cao Xinhua.

6. Mules carry bricks and other construction material up the steep path towards the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

7. A mule decorated with red tassels carries bricks and other construction materials up the steep path towards the Jiankou section.

Reuters

8. A worker unloads bricks from mules at the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

9. People work on the reconstruction of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

10. The Jiankou section of the Great Wall is located in Huairou District, north of Beijing, China.

Reuters

11.



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12.



Reuters

13. A worker waits for bricks and other construction materials to be delivered on the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

14. People wait for bricks and other equipment to be delivered as they work on the reconstruction of Great Wall.

Reuters

15. A man rests while working on the reconstruction of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

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16. A man takes a break from work on the reconstruction of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

17. People rest after working on the reconstruction of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

18. An engineer points to the line between old (L) and newly built parts of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

19. People rest after working on the reconstruction of the of the Great Wall.

Reuters

20. For more than a decade, mules have been crucial in the effort to restore Jiankou, a serpentine section of the Great Wall of China that is notorious for its ridges and perilous slopes.





Reuters

21. A man smokes a cigarette whilst working on the reconstruction of the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

Reuters

22. Early morning fog covers the Jiankou section of the Great Wall.

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23.



Reuters

24. A bird flies over the Jiankou section

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Ever wondered how much money CEOs of technology companies make? Well, if you want to feel sad about just how underpaid you are, read along...

Based on the Bloomberg Pay Index, the publication recently released a list of the highest paid executives in the world for 2016, taking into account things like salaries, bonuses, perks, stock options and pension values. Amazingly, 5 of the top six spots on the list belong to CEOs of companies in the technology sector. So here are the five highest-paid tech CEOs in the world for 2016.

Marc Lore - Walmart eCommerce

Though Walmart may have started out as a retail outlet chain, its since diversified into online ventures as well. CEO Marc Lore was appointed in September 2016 when Walmart acquired his startup Jet.com. Lore also oversees @WalmartLabs, the companys technology arm for e-commerce.

Salary: $346,154

Bonus: $1,055,136

Total compensation: $236,896,191 (Rs 1526.02 crore)

Tim Cook - Apple

Cook joined Apple as senior vice president of worldwide operations in March 1998, later also serving as Executive VP, before being appointed CEO in August 2011, following Steve Jobs resignation. During his tenure, he advocated reforms to government policy in surveillance, cybersecurity, as well as environmental preservation. In 2014, Cook also became the first CEO of a Fortune 500 company to publicly come out as gay.

Salary: $3,000,000

Bonus: $5,370,000

Total compensation: $150,036,907 (Rs 966.50 crore)

Sundar Pichai - Google

Formerly Googles Product Chief, Indian-American Sundar Pichai stepped into his role as CEO in October 2015, when the corporation restructured to form Googles parent company Alphabet Inc. In his time as Product Chief, Pichai has led the development of software like Google Chrome, Chrome OS, Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Maps.

Salary: $650,000

Total compensation: $106,502,419 (Rs 686.06 cr)

Elon Musk - Tesla

A South African-born Canadian-American entrepreneur, investor, and engineer, Elon Musk holds executive positions in multiple organisations. Not only is he the founder, Series A investor, CEO, and product architect of electric car manufacturer Tesla, hes also the CEO and CTO of space travel company SpaceX, aside from positions at the helm of OpenAI, NeuraLink, and Solar City. Musk was ranked 21st on the Forbes list of The World's Most Powerful People in 2016, and is well known for pouring money into many initiatives other would deem risky and even ridiculously outlandish.

Salary: $45,936

Total compensation: $99,744,920 (Rs 642.53 crore)

Virginia M Rometty - IBM

Virginia is the current chairman, president and CEO of IBM, a post she took up in January 2012, as well as being the first woman to ever lead the company. Shes been named as one of the 50 most powerful people in the world by both Bloomberg and Fortune. However, Rometty has faced criticism over the years regarding excessive compensation for IBM executives, as well as the company facing 20 successive quarters of financial decline under her regime.

Salary: $1,600,000

Bonus: $4,950,000

Total compensation: $96,764,750 (approx Rs 623.33 crore)
In 1991, households around the world were still embracing computers as a normal home appliance. No one in the world had even heard of the Internet yet, much less connected to it. Yet somehow, the French were already online chatting and buying goods digitally. All thanks to the Minitel.

Images courtesy - believekevin/Flickr

Whats Minitel?

Minitel was a sort of computer back in the day in the most barebones form. It had a screen, keyboard that folded out from the little box-like body, and even housed a modem, but not a processor. Instead, Minitel connected to remote services through its text-only interface, that did all computing for it, similar to what youd see in a modern day Chromebook. At the time, the state-run French telecom operator gave away the hardware for free, instead charging users for each call made  the Minitel version of visiting a website.

Was there even a point to it?

Not to be underestimated, back in 1982 when it started, Minitel gave the French people access to more than 25,000 online services, long before the world wide web as we know today was even invented, let alone commercially available. In fact, many web services that later flourished on the Internet had their start on Minitels network. It allowed users to catch up on the latest news, play multiplayer games, shop for groceries, manage their bank accounts, and book event tickets online using a credit card. It even allowed people to perform tasks we associate solely with the Internet of Things today, including remotely control home appliances. During the peak of its popularity in the 1990s, Minitel had over 25 million users.

Why havent I heard of it?

Unfortunately, the Minitel was laid to rest in 2012, 30 years after it opened up a whole new world of possibilities to the French. While the terminals in peoples homes obviously still functioned, it just didnt make sense to keep the system running anymore. The ancient devices couldnt handle modern graphics, their modems were seriously outdated, and the French people had already begun moving towards the Internet and smartphones as a more convenient way to get online. As it began bleeding users, France Telecom repeatedly planned to decommission Minitel, only to push back the end date multiple times. Eventually, in 2011, it decided that the number of remaining users was not enough to justify the maintenance costs with keeping the system alive.

What's the big deal about a defunct old box?

The Minitel was innovative and popular when it launched because of the new realm of possibilities it opened up. However, it had one big flaw thats relevant even in todays Internet world  it was under the control of one single power. Net Neutrality is a major point of contention in countries around the world, including India. Regulations to protect net neutrality were coded into US law by the Federal Communications Commission in 2015, something the FCC is now looking to roll back under its new leadership.

Minitel may have been limited by a text-only interface and other factors, but it died because France Telecom ran the show single-handedly, in a way that let it maximise profits. Thats why Internet freedom advocates today are continuously pushing to keep the architecture of the Internet decentralised. The minute you put control of what people can and cant access into government or private hands, you destroy the spirit of what the Internet really is. And thats the lesson that we need to take away from the little box that opened up a whole new world.
NASA researchers and scientists from a few other US universities have devised plans to explore two of the most remote planets in our solar system; Uranus and Neptune. Theyve rarely been studied, compared to other planets, and the team plans to change that within the next few decades.

Post encounter view of Neptune from the Voyager 2 - NASA

The team has released a report outlining four different types of missions that could be sent to Uranus and Neptune in the future, including spacecraft that could orbit the two planets for 10 to 15 years and even carry probes into their atmospheres.

The main focus of each of these missions is to determine what the planets are made of and how they came to be that way. The curious thing about Uranus and Neptune is that, although they look very similar, something about their interiors is actually quite a bit different, UC Santa Cruz professor Jonathan Fortney, one of the reports authors, told The Verge. And we dont really know why that is.

So far, only NASAs Voyager 2 has visited Uranus and Neptune. Launched in 1977, the spacecraft carried out flybys of the two planets, as well as Jupiter and Saturn, before heading out into deep space. It was thanks to the Voyager 2 that we discovered new rings and moons around Uranus and Neptune, as well as the fact that the former may have an ocean of water beneath its surface.

Voyager 2 - NASA

During the mission, the Voyager 2 came within 80,000 km of Uranus and 5,000 km of Neptune, the closest weve ever been. However, that pass raised more questions than it answered, and NASA tends to tackle them sometime in the 2040s.

In 2015, NASA gathered scientists, including Fortney, to devise mission concepts for the two planets, which the team finally settled on; three missions to Uranus and one to Neptune. Uranus has more missions primarily because itll be easier to reach than the latter. Each of the four missions is expected to cost approximately $2 billion, more than half the cost Cassini mission that sent the orbiter to Saturn. The three missions to Uranus would include a flyby and two orbiters, while the Neptune mission would also deploy an orbiter. Optionally, these planned vehicles will also be able to carry a probe that could be deployed into the atmospheres of the planets.

However, though the four missions have been proposed to NASA, only one is likely to be carried out. Theres no way thered be money for more than one, Fortney says. On top of that, the missions will take a long time to complete. The earliest possible launch window could be sometime between 2029 and 2023, after which it would take another 10 to 13 years before the spacecraft even reaches its destination. That means the earliest we can expect to see any data from a mission to Uranus or Neptune would be in the mid 2040s

However, spacecraft development takes a long time, so if NASA decides to actually progress with one of these missions it needs to begin planning right away. The scientific community is expected to meet again soon to discuss space mission priorities for the years ahead, a discussion which will probably play a part in NASAs own decision.
How Hillary Clinton May Find Her Way to Jail

By Ekaterina Blinova

June 16, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - Hillary Clinton may find herself behind bars sooner than anyone expects; however, it's not her private email server or much discussed "pay-to-play" scheme that is her main Achilles heel.

While it seems nerdy and not as sexy as the much-discussed Clinton "death list," the seemingly trivial discrepancies in the financial and founding documents of the Clinton Foundation are most damning.

"Let's start from the very beginning," Charles Ortel, a Wall Street analyst who has been investigating the alleged charity fraud for about two years and publishes his findings on his website, says.

How It All Began

"The United States has precise rules governing how 'charities' spring into life legally and then operate. Most charities are organized in a given US state (or Washington, D.C.) as nonprofit corporations. After completing this step, they frequently apply for federal tax exemption  here, they must complete a detailed application truthfully that explains, among other things, the specific purposes they intend to carry out," Ortel explained in an interview with Sputnik.

"These 'purposes' must, in fact, be tax-exempt in line with statutory provisions that define which purposes serve the public, and which may not," he stressed.

"The William J. Clinton Presidential Foundation, Inc. is somewhat different in that it was organized to comply with the Presidential Libraries Act of 1955, as later amended, to house 'Presidential Records' (this is a statutorily defined term that means items created or received during Bill Clinton's presidential terms that ran from January 20, 1993, through January 20, 2001), to operate a research facility for those who wish to study these records, and to raise a capital endowment," Ortel clarified.

In addition, to operate a charity lawfully across the US or the whole world, one must comply with solicitation requirements in each of our 50 states and in certain other jurisdictions, which require charities to register and report before raising funds.

The analyst underscored that many states and places levy taxes on charities and their potential donors, who are not exempt unless state and local registrations are completed truthfully.

U.S. President Bill Clinton (L) twirls First Lady Hillary Clinton during an onstage dance 20 January 1993 as they stopped by the Arkansas inaugural ball in Washington,D.C.

"Long before 2002, when Bill Clinton, Ira Magaziner and others illegally began soliciting funds, allegedly to 'fight HIV/AIDS internationally,' the original Clinton Foundation failed to register truthfully in numerous states and localities. In addition, the Clinton Foundation filed raise and materially misleading federal tax forms concerning the status of their state and local filings, and other matters," the analyst highlighted.

He emphasized that under applicable rules a "charity" must be organized lawfully and then operated lawfully at all times thereafter.

"So, material defects in public filings for the Clinton Foundation  which was founded on October 23, 1997, in Arkansas  began long before 2002, and have escalated right to the present," Ortel told Sputnik.

Audit Problems

Yet another problem brought to light by the analyst is that the Clintons' charity has never been audited in full compliance with the law.

Thus, from December 31, 1997, through December 31, 2009, the Clinton Foundation attempted to pass off accounting work performed by a firm called "BKD, LLP" as "audits," Ortel recalled, stressing that BKD couldn't be considered "independent" since it had certain ties to the charity.

"Afterwards, from December 31, 2009, forward, no purported 'audit' prepared by any accounting firm for any part of the Clinton Foundation opens with a formal 'audit' of the starting position on December 31, 2009. This may be because no part of the Clinton Foundation was lawfully organized by December 2009," Ortel pointed out and added that, in his opinion, "the financial statements put into the public domain by Clinton Foundation trustees define reckless misconduct and seem actionable to me, on many levels."

Indeed, the charity's financial documents contain suspicious gaps and omissions .

Commenting on the foundation's international activities, Ortel noted that what is missing is "granular information required on the local currency results of the Clinton Foundation and currency translation rates into US dollars for each of these foreign operations."

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"Also missing is proof that each of these foreign operations was registered lawfully in any foreign nation where the Clinton Foundation operated or solicited donations," he highlighted.

What Lies at the Root of the Gaps and Omissions in the Documents

The question then arises what lay behind these obvious discrepancies and negligence.

Is it ignorance of the law on the part of the Clintons? Unlikely.

According to the analyst, one could not exclude that these discrepancies point to potential fraud and mismanagement of funds.

For example, back in 2015, Charles Ortel exposed the scheme, which was potentially used by the Clinton Foundation to defraud air travelers within the framework of the charity's HIV/AIDS initiative. According to the analyst, the Clintons could have defrauded an unsuspecting international public of hundreds of millions of dollars for personal gain.

This is big, the analyst notes, calling attention to the fact that "the penalties under the US state and federal law for charity fraud, particularly involving disaster relief, are incredibly stiff."

One of the shining examples is Rep. Corrine Brown's case: the 69-year-old Democrat has been recently indicted for a $800,000 charity fraud including mail and wire fraud, conspiracy, obstruction and filing of false tax returns. She is facing decades in jail.

"Normally, the IRS and Department of Justice look at the public filings to determine how much 'private benefit' may have been generated through the operation of a supposed 'charity'  this test is performed on a 'collective' basis. In other cases, a collective private benefit of $1,000 or more has been held to be disqualifying," the analyst explained.

What Prevents IRS, FBI From Catching the Clintons Red-Handed

So, what prevented the IRS and FBI from catching the Clintons given their suspicious charity record?

"Normally, the IRS holds enormous power when it chooses to investigate a charity whose public filings seem suspect," Ortel noted, adding that, similarly, the FBI has enough sophisticated resources to "scan" a charity.

There were reports that the Clinton Foundation had been investigated by the IRS and FBI but, surprisingly, these inquiries have not borne any fruit.

"The first investigation of the Clinton Foundation that I find mentioned in the public domain was conducted by the FBI from 2001 through 2005.  During this time, two gentlemen now in the news were involved: James Comey was US attorney and then deputy attorney general of the Justice Department, while Bob Mueller was head of the FBI," Ortel said.

Maybe here is the answer to the question.

"The Clintons have had decades to insert their allies into the IRS, the FBI and Justice, as well as into key state government positions," the analyst noted, "So, until now, the Clintons, the Obamas and others have been able to blunt comprehensive inquiries that likely will expose bipartisan wrongdoing."

In this light, Donald Trump's words that former FBI Director Comey was "the best thing that ever happened to Hillary Clinton" acquires a new meaning.

That also means that the Clintons charity case could become especially explosive given the fact that so many operatives, trustees, donors, companies and even foreign government officials could have been involved in the suspected fraud.

How the International Community May Contribute to the Charity Probe

To tackle the issue and conclude an investigation into the Clintons' alleged charity fraud one needs to "clean the house" first, the analyst stressed. According to Ortel, Attorney General Jeff Sessions is the best-qualified official to carry out this work.

Furthermore, the international community can also join the effort and contribute to the investigation.

"I am already in contact with certain governments concerning the apparent legal status of the Clinton Foundation and the nature/amount of sums solicited and received by Clinton interests, supposedly for charitable pursuits," the analyst said.

"Around the world, the Clintons claim to have operated their charities towards noble-sounding aims. I would be most grateful to receive any information concerning potential infractions," Ortel stressed.
US Shoots Down Syrian Government Aircraft

By Peter Symonds

June 19, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - In a marked escalation of the war in Syria, a US F-18 fighter jet yesterday shot down a Syrian government fighter bomber for the first time, claiming that it had been attacking pro-US rebel forces on the ground near Raqqa. While nominally fighting Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) forces, the US shoot-down makes clear that the real target of American-led operations is the ousting of the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad.

The US military justified the provocative act by claiming that the Syrian SU-22 had been bombing near so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) troops. It cited fighting that had taken place hours earlier between the Syrian military and SDF forces holding the town of JaDin as showing hostile intent and declared that attacks on legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated. The statement absurdly declared that it was not seeking to fight Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces partnered with them.

There is nothing legitimate about the military activities of the US and its allies inside Syria, which, under the guise of the war on terror, are seeking to carve out areas that can be used to mount operations against the Assad regime and its Russian and Iranian backers. As ISIS militias in both Syria and Iraq are in retreat, the US preparations to move against Assad are coming increasingly into the open.

The Syrian army issued a statement saying that its aircraft had been on a mission against ISIS when it came under fire, accused the US of coordinating with ISIS and warned that the incident would have dangerous repercussions. The pilot has not been found and is presumed dead.

The US attack follows its shooting down of an unmanned pro-Syrian government drone earlier in June after it allegedly fired on US-backed troops in southern Syria near the border with Iraq. The US military has unilaterally declared a deconfliction zone with a radius of 55 kilometres around a training base at al-Tanfa key border crossing between the two countries.

In effect, Washington has carved out an area of Syria where US and British special forces train so-called rebelssupposedly to fight ISIS, but in reality for its proxy war against the Assad regime. The US has already conducted air strikes against pro-Syrian government forces that have sought to regain control of the vital border area.

Last week Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov phoned US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and demanded that the US stop attacking Syrian government forces as they seek to drive ISIS militias out of the border areas. Lavrov expressed his categorical disagreement with the US strikes on pro-government forces and called on him to take concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, the Russian foreign ministry reported.

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The situation throughout Syria remains extremely fraught with the Assad regime accusing the US-led forces besieging Raqqa of allowing ISIS fighters to escape to the south where government troops are battling ISIS for control of the city of Deir es-Zor.

Over the weekend, Irans military fired ground-to-ground missiles for the first time from Iranian territory against ISIS positions inside Syria. While claiming that they were in retaliation for the June 7 ISIS attacks in Tehran, the missile attacks into the Deir es-Zor area were clearly aimed at bolstering the Syrian government forces.

The US proxy war in Syria is part of a broader confrontation which is not just aimed at the Assad regime but more broadly against its backersIran and Russia. Trumps trip to the Middle East last month was above all aimed at forging an alliance with Saudi Arabia and its allies in the Gulf States against Iran and its allies in the region.

The immediate outcome was the imposition of an all-out, Saudi-led economic blockade against Qataritself an act of war. Riyadh accused Qatar of sponsoring terrorism, but the real reason lies in Qatars relations with Iran and its reluctance to join Saudi Arabia in its anti-Iranian war drive.

The Saudi monarchy, which has long regarded Iran as its chief regional rival, is deeply hostile to the Assad regime in Damascus, which it regards as part of a Shiite crescent that includes Shiite parties and militias in Iraq and Lebanon. Backed to the hilt by the US, Saudi Arabia is waging its own war in Yemen against Houthi rebels, who, it claims, are being supported by Iran and who ousted the US-Saudi puppet government in 2014.

The Trump regime signalled its determination to ramp up the war in Syria in April when it launched a barrage of cruise missile strikes against a Syrian government air base on the pretext of unsubstantiated claims the regime had carried out a gas attack. The US military is determined to rebuild anti-Assad forces after the devastating blow suffered by these pro-US militias in being driven out of Aleppo.

The shooting down of the Syrian SU-22 is another demonstration that the US is prepared to resort to the most reckless means to defend its footholds in Syria and lay the basis for the broader war that is being prepared.

While proclaiming its own deconfliction zones or no-go areas, the US military reiterated last month that it will operate at will throughout Syria. We dont recognise any specific zone in itself that we preclude ourselves from operating in, Lieutenant General Jeffrey Harrigan, commander of the US air forces in the region, declared.

As a result the stage is set for a dramatic escalation of the Middle East conflict where a relatively minor incident or clash involving US forces and their Syrian, Iranian or Russian counterparts could erupt into a war that draws in major regional and world powers.
Qatar, The Mouse That Roared

By Eric Margolis

June 19, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - Tiny Qatar, the mouse that roared, has now managed to enrage the larger part of the Arab world and defy the newly-minted Mideast expert, Donald Trump.

This month, an angry alliance of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, with some background support from the puppet regimes of war-torn Libya and Yemen, declared an embargo of Qatar for supporting terrorism. They immediately cut off food and goods deliveries to the sandy peninsula on which Qatar sits, boycotted its oil and gas exports, and denied their airspace to Qatars airline. There is talk of a US and Arab coup aimed at regime change in Qatar.

Veteran Mideast-watchers are used to endless spats between the regions Arab rulers, but this one was a big deal. It seems that Trump, who recently visited Saudi Arabia, had orchestrated the boycott and isolation of Qatar to show its upstart rulers who was boss. Moreover, his pro-Israeli advisors devised the plan and Trump backed it publicly.

Here was another example of a US leader, with only comic book knowledge of the region, mucking things up royally. The terrorists Qatar is accused of supporting were the Muslim Brotherhood, a venerable, moderate movement dedicated to welfare and education. After the Muslim Brotherhood won a democratic election in Egypt, the Saudis and Israel colluded to overthrow it. The result was the US-backed ruthless military dictatorship of Field Marshall al-Sisi, which has killed, jailed, and tortured thousands of opponents.

Trump apparently green-lighted the siege of Qatar because it owns the outspoken al-Jazeera TV network, the only really outspoken media group outside of Israel, which the prickly Egyptians and Saudis hate with a burning passion. Qatars ruler, Sheik Hamid al-Thani, has been the principal supporter of the besieged Palestinians in Gaza and their political arm, Hamas, which is branded terrorists by the US and Israel.

Qatar has long been friendly with the Afghan resistance movement Taliban, which is also branded terrorists by its foes. By contrast, Qatar has been an important backer of Syrias anti-Assad rebels  who are also supported by the US, Britain, France and Turkey.

While Trump of Arabia was blasting the Qataris as terrorists, a word of no meaning whatsoever but beloved of propagandists, the Pentagons top brass were tearing their hair out. Qatar just put in a $12 billion order for US F-15 jets, keeping its production lines, that were slated to be scrapped, open and running, creating 60,000 American jobs.

Qatar is home to one of the largest and most important US military bases in the Mideast, al-Udaid, where 10,000 US servicemen are stationed. US warplanes from Udaid fly missions against ISIS insurgents, into Afghanistan, and to Libya. Only the US base at Incerlik, Turkey, rivals al-Udaid. Udaid played a key role in the US invasion of Iraq in 2003. France also runs air operations out of al-Udaid and a base in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar has only 313,000 native-born citizens. Expats comprise 2.3 million. Residents of Qatar joke that its the best-run Indian city in Asia.

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Indeed, Indians keep the city operating and provide much of its technical cadres. As in all the Gulf States, known to their former British rulers as Trucial States, armies of pitifully-paid coolies from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh do the grunt work and are treated as virtual slaves.

Still, Qatar enjoys the worlds highest per capita income. Its a worthy example of how to put oil money to work properly. When I was a columnist for its leading newspaper, I always marveled at the order and discipline of the kingdom as compared to its neighbors.

Here in a nutshell is whats happening. Qatar has been the most progressive, modern-thinking Gulf state. Its rulers, the al-Thani family, have tried to support moderate, progressive movements in the Arab world and Afghanistan with money and media support.

Qatars efforts at modernizing are being met with furious opposition by the leaders of Mideast reaction  feudal kingdom Saudi Arabia, military dictatorship Egypt and their feudal satraps in the UAE and Bahrain. Trumps green-lighting this foolish venture shows how poorly informed and dunderheaded he is. The other Gulf States should grow up and stop acting like feuding Bedouins.

Interestingly, Turkey, an old friend of Qatar, just announced more of its troops will go to the sheikdom, where Ankara has a small base. The other war-like actors in this tempest in a teapot will think twice before defying the Turks who have NATOs second biggest army.

Eric S. Margolis is an award-winning, internationally syndicated columnist. His articles have appeared in the New York Times, the International Herald Tribune the Los Angeles Times, Times of London, the Gulf Times, the Khaleej Times, Nation  Pakistan, Hurriyet,  Turkey, Sun Times Malaysia and other news sites in Asia. https://ericmargolis.com
Israel Giving Secret Aid To Syrian "Rebels"





Sources tell Wall Street Journal Israel has been supplying Syrian rebels with cash, food, fuel and medical supplies.



By Elad Benari

June 19, 2017 " Information Clearing House " - Israel has been regularly supplying Syrian rebels near its border with cash as well as food, fuel and medical supplies, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday.

According to the report, the IDF is in regular communication with rebel groups and its assistance includes undisclosed payments to commanders that help pay salaries of fighters and buy ammunition and weapons, according to interviews with about half a dozen Syrian fighters.

An unnamed source told the newspaper that Israel has established a military unit that oversees the support in Syria, and set aside a specific budget for the aid.

Israel has not confirmed the report.

Israel has in the past treated some 3,000 wounded Syrians , many of them fighters, in its hospitals and has provided humanitarian aid such as food and clothing to civilians near the border during winter. But half a dozen rebels and three people familiar with Israels thinking who spoke to the Wall Street Journal claimed that the countrys involvement is much deeper and more coordinated than previously known and entails direct funding of opposition fighters near its border for years.

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Israel stood by our side in a heroic way, said Moatasem al-Golani, spokesman for the rebel group Fursan al-Joulan, or Knights of the Golan. We wouldnt have survived without Israels assistance.

Israels aim is to keep Iran-backed fighters allied to the Syrian regime, such as Hezbollah, away from the 45-mile stretch of border on the Golan Heights, the three people said.

Fursan al-Joulans commander, who goes by the nickname Abu Suhayb, told The Wall Street Journal that his group gets roughly $5,000 a month from Israel. It is not linked to the Western-backed Free Syrian Army and doesnt receive Western funding or arms.

The office of Prime Minister referred questions on the issue to the IDF, which didnt respond to requests for comment on whether it was sending cash to or dealing directly with rebel commanders in the Golan region.

The IDF only told the newspaper that it was committed to securing the borders of Israel and preventing the establishment of terror cells and hostile forces  in addition to providing humanitarian aid to the Syrians living in the area.

Israel has never taken a side in the Syrian civil war, but the regime of Bashar Al-Assad regularly accuses Israel of supporting rebel groups, to which the Syrian regime refers as terrorists.

The Syrian opposition in the past has claimed the exact opposite, that Israel was collaborating with Iran and Hezbollah to keep Assad in power.

This article was first published by

Israel National News

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Home John Pilger; The Age of Media Mass Deception Watch



He has been defying the Establishment gatekeepers and telling us the truth about whats really going on in the world for over 50 years. He has covered wars around the world from Vietnam to Iraq, and is also an award-winning documentary filmmaker. For many, John Pilger is the journalists journalist, and he came into the Sputnik studio to give us his thoughts on the state of the press today.



Vanessa Beeley has reported from Syria during the current conflict many times, so we invited her into the studio to discuss these glaring double standards in the media. Posted June 19, 2017 No Advertising - No Government Grants - This Is Independent Media Get Our Free Daily Newsletter The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. What's your response? - Scroll down to add / read comments Please read our Comment Policy before posting - It is unacceptable to slander, smear or engage in personal attacks on authors of articles posted on ICH. Those engaging in that behavior will be banned from the comment section. Click here to comment on our Facebook page
First Lady of Nigeria, Mrs Aisha Buhari, has expressed commitment to the service of humanity, this was made in a statement by her Director, Information, Suleiman Haruna, in Abuja on Sunday, said Buhari made the commitment after she was presented with Woman of the Year award by Tell magazine in Lagos.

The programme was organised by Tell Communications Limited, Publishers of Tell Magazine.

The wife of the President, who was represented at the event by the Senior Special to the President Dr Hajo Sani, said came as recognition for the humanitarian activities of her NGO Future Assured programme.

Buhari also expressed appreciation for the award.

She said the award signified the recognition of the activities of `Future Assured and a push for her to do more.

I am convinced that this award will go along way by encouraging me to do more for the less privileged people in the society.

As well as spreading the milk of human kindness, especially to those that are less privileged in the IDPs Camps across Nigeria, she said.

The President, Tell Communications Limited, Mr. Nosa Igiebor, said the Tell family decided to recognise Buhari for her efforts in touching the lives of women and the girl-child through her NGO, Future Assured Initiative.

Igiebor said Buharis NGO played a vital role in total amelioration of the plight of the less privileged, especially in Northeast Nigeria.

He, however, said the purpose of the award was to inspire other Nigerians and inform them that the situation was not as hopeless as it might seem, as there could always be some silver-lining at the end of the dark corner.

Other awardees at the event included the Oni of Ife, who bagged the Man of the Year award, Bola Tinubu (National Icon of Democracy award) and Gov. Kashim Shettima of Borno and Prof. Ben Ayade of Cross River, (both recipients of Governor of the Year award).

Posthumous awards were also presented to Gani Fawehinmi as All-time National Hero of Rule of Law and Human Rights Advocacy, and Dele Giwa as All-time National Icon of Freedom of Speech.

Their awards were received by their families.

Speakers at the event harped on the need for national unity and called on Nigerians with separatist tendencies to abandon such tendencies and embrace peace.

Source: ( PM News )
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State, Mr. Olamide Odimayo has reportedly died in the den of his abductors.

The deceased was allegedly kidnapped last Thursday by some unknown gunmen at his home in Igbotu town in Ese Odo Local Government Area of the state.

According to a source, Odimayos lifeless body was found in Ogolo River between Sabomi and Igbotu towns in the local government.

Another source said the late APC chieftain was killed by the abductors to avenge the killing of one of them (abductors) by the youths of the town after the abduction.

The source said, Immediately after Olamide was kidnapped in Igbotu, the youths of the town chased them and caught one of them, so the person caught was beaten to death by the youths.

Few days after the incident, the victim was found dead in a river, he must have been killed by the kidnappers because one of them was caught and killed. 

Confirming the incident, to our correspondent on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Mr. Femi Joseph, said eight persons had been arrested by the Police in connection with the incident.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
Domestic violence has been on the rise in recent times and as a result, many have taken to social media to try and create awareness that domestic violence in any form is wrong whether its against a man or a woman.

Several celebrities have also lent their voice to this cause including most recently John Okafor aka Mr Ibu.

Taking to his Instagram page, he said those who beat women are going to hell.

It is an offence to beat a woman do not beat ur wife if u do just prepare to go to hell, he wrote. A small scale study conducted in Oyo and Lagos states indicated that 65% of educated women are abused and 56% blue collar or market women experience similar attacks.
There was panic in Uloano Ndugba community in Isu Local Government Area of Imo State following the tragic assassination of their President General.

The tragic assassination of the President General Uloano Ndugba community in Isu Local Government Area of Imo State, Bede Okeh by unknown gunmen, reportedly caused panic on Saturday in the area.

It was gathered from online sources that the President General was allegedly gunned down by assassins as he was preparing for Sundays fathers day celebration.

The community were said to have been thrown into mourning, heartbroken, confused and totally in grieve over the ugly development.

The community youths and women of Isu LGA called on the Imo State Police commissioner and government to quickly unravel the circumstances and those behind the gruesome murder of Chief Okeh.

Meanwhile, the corpse of chief Bede has been evacuated by the Isu LGA Police Division and deposited in the morgue.
The 4 Army Brigade Headquarters in Edo state will collaborate will be relocated to its barracks at Ikpoba Hill to a more conducive place. This was disclosed by Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo after inspecting the 4 Brigade Ikpoba Hill Barrack in Benin on Sunday.

The governor, accompanied by the Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Garba expressed displeasure with the dilapidated facilities at the barracks.

Obaseki said that it was imperative that officers and men of the Army live in an ideal and conducive environment.

He said that the Army needed better facilities for it to be able to strategize with other security agencies to tackle the insecurity challenges in the country.

As you can see this is not an ideal place for military men to live.

We are going to work with the Brigade to look at other property and other barracks to see how we can get land to relocate most of these facilities including the schools and health facility.

I dont think it is in the interest of the nation that our Army officers and men live under this condition, he said.

Obaseki said his administration was currently partnering with some institutions on provision of social housing scheme that would allow Army officers and men live in decent accommodation.

The governor later proceeded to the Ekewuan barracks of the 4 Brigade where he also inspected facilities and noted that some facilities at Ikpoba barrack would be relocated there.

Among facilities inspected were the Army Day primary and secondary schools, the Medical Centre, residential quarters and water facilities.

Obaseki expressed concern over the vandalism of school facilities in the barracks, saying that he would call back the contractors handling rehabilitation in the school as the Brigade Commander had promised to reinforce security.

The governor condemned the encroachment by neighbouring communities into the barracks land, saying that the ministry of Lands, Urban and Regional Planning would be mandated to recover the land for the Army.

He ordered that structures built around a moat in Orovie community close to the Army barrack be demolished because it was against an existing law.

Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Garba expressed appreciation and promised to collaborate with the government to achieve the desired goals.

Source: ( PM News )
Seventeen persons were killed in multiple suicide attacks in a Maiduguri suburb, the police confirmed on Monday, this was disclosed by the spokesman of the Nigeria Police in Borno State, Victor Isuku, disclosed in a statement that five female suicide bombers besieged a settlement, Kofa in Konduga local government area of the troubled state, wreaking havoc.

He said the suicide bombers were all killed with twelve other persons in the explosions that also got eleven others injured, at the settlement about eight kilometres from Maiduguri.

The statement read: Multiple suicide bomb attacks happened yesterday Sunday 18/6/2017, at about 2030hrs, five female suicide bombers detonated IED strapped to their bodies in Kofa community, which is about 8km from Maiduguri town and situated along Maiduguri- Konduga road.

The first suicide bomber, detonated near a mosque, killing seven persons. The second detonated in a house killing five persons.

While two other suicide bombers detonated within the same vicinity, killing themselves only.

A total of seventeen persons including the five suicide bombers died, while eleven persons sustained injuries and were rushed to University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

EOD team were mobilised to the scene and normalcy has since been restored.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2 comprising of Lagos and Ogun States Police Commands, Mr. Adamu Ibrahim, on Monday assured the public especially parents of the kidnapped students of Lagos State Model College, Igbonla-Epe, that all hands are on the deck to ensure the safe return of their wards.

Speaking to Government House correspondents after a meeting with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at Lagos House in Ikeja, Ibrahim said security agencies were working tirelessly to ensure the return of the students and reunite them with their families.

He said: In fact very soon, you will hear good news on the issue. We are working seriously on it. At this stage, I will not want to disclose too much because these are security issues but all I want to say is that people should give us a chance and very soon, they will hear good news.

He vowed that the police in Lagos and Ogun Commands were battle ready and have been alerted to make the zone too hot for criminal elements to carry out their nefarious activities, adding that the police would build on the success of the arrest of the notorious kidnap kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike otherwise known as Evans, and hunt down other criminal elements.

According to him, Security measures are not discussed publicly but what I will tell you is that we are taking all necessary measures to ensure that Lagos is free of crime and criminals. We will rid all these criminals out of this zone.

So, I will like to send a word to criminals to leave Zone 2 otherwise we will not relent until the zone is completely rid of all these criminals.

You are aware Evans has already been arrested and he is the most wanted criminal who is into kidnapping. Others too, if they dont leave this Zone, they will also be arrested, Ibrahim vowed.

The police boss also commended Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode for efforts at improving the security architecture in the State.

He said: People are in fact aware of what the Lagos State Government is doing on security and no other State is doing it. So, all efforts are on to ensure that there is total peace in the State. Lagos is doing perfectly well in assisting security agencies to do their work in the State and we must commend their efforts.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
Mercy Aigbes husband, Mr. Lanre Gentry, has queried the sense behind his wifes ambassadorial role for widows when he was still very much alive.

Mr. Gentry, who apparently was missing his son, who is in his run away wifes custody, bared his troubled mind on the gram today, while blaming the apparatus of government for having a hand in destroying his relationship with his wife.

He wrote, Happy Fathers day to all the dads out there!!! May we be known always as the hero in our kids lives.

And to government who indirectly and directly separates homes; shows what a good government we have. Makes me wonder why someone will take up being a widow ambassador when her husband isnt dead.

It will be recalled that shortly after the messy separation from her husband, Mercy Aigbe, was appointed as an ambassador for widows by an organisation working to stop the maltreatment of widows in Nigeria.

Lanre Gentry has now vented his disapproval of his wife representing widows while he (her husband) was alive and well.
Again, it seems controversial journalist, Kemi Olunloyo has turned a new leaf, after she had her fair share of the prison experience.

She previously thanked blogger, Linda Ikeji for donating N100,000 to her, for her legal expenses. Now, shes making peace with those she previously had feud with.. One of which is actress, Georgina Onuoha.

Recall they both had a brutal war on Social Media.. You can check the details Here, here, here and here

She shared a screenshot of a chat in which she apologized to Georgina Onuoha and also had the below to say on Instagram.
Operatives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris Intelligence Response Team (IRT) at the weekend, has arrested Eight notorious kidnappers terrorizing Abuja-Kaduna expressway.

Those arrested include the gang leader, Adamu Mamman aka Master, who hails from Amana village in Kaduna State, his second in command, Ali Rabo aka Blacky from Liman Ibada village, Kaduna State, Umar Antijo, from Rijana village, Shehu Idris Shagari, Awwalu Ahmadu aka Mota, who is a receiver of stolen goods.

A police source said that Shehu is the third in command and the gangs armorer while Babangida Abdullahi , Usman Abdulmumin and Ahmad Abdullahi were described as the gangs foot soldiers.

Aside being the gangs leader, Ali is said to be the main informant of the gang, as he provides the gang with most of the informations on the attack and kidnapping of victims including a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

The gang leader, his 2nd in command, and the third in command along with the five other gang members were arrested between 15 and 16 of June, 2017.

Recovered from the suspects are various automatic assault rifles, magazines, cutlasses and charms.

Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Moshood Jimoh, said that the arrest of the eight suspects is sequel to series of complaints to the IGP on the notorious activities of the gang along the Abuja-Kaduna highway.

He said that sequel to the complaints, directed Abba Kyari, an Assistant Commissioner of Police to deployed his men along with those from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) to the area.

He said that after weeks of investigation on the intelligence report recovered, the team arrested the eight suspects from their hideouts.

He said:

The suspects admitted that they actually kidnapped some people on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway. They said that that they decided to go to see their respective families in their villages after releasing their victims before they were arrested.

Some of them were arrested at Maraban Jos, Anguwa Pama, Sabon Gayan and Rijana village all in Kaduna State. All the suspects arrested have confessed to several kidnapping of motorist along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.

They admitted kidnapping DSP Munir attached to Airwing Force Headquarters Abuja, a retired Police Sergeant, a driver to the Chairman Senate Committee on Police Affairs, as well as five students of the Amadu Bello University (ABU) and Nuhu Bamalli University.

The kidnapped students were identified as Idris Goga, Simon Terna, Kazzah Bulus, Ibrahim Kalin, and Augustine Climax. Augustine was was later killed by the gang and his corpse dumped in a river by the kidnappers.

Many of their victims including the Police DSP have Positively identified the gang leader his, 2ic, 3ic and informant among others as the ones responsible for their abduction. Suspects further confessed thats hey decided to go to their respective villages because of the massive deployment of security forces to their area of Operations by the IGP.

They said that most of their gang members are relocating from Rijana village to their respective home towns. They further confessed that there are two major groups of Kidnappers Operating within Rijana Axis of the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. Suspects are assisting IRT operatives in tracing the Second Group. Victim Phones, N 17,000 made up of N500 fresh mints belonging to victims, SIM Cards, Charms, Cutlasses and two pairs of Army Uniforms were recovered from the Kidnappers.

See more photos:

Source: Yabaleftonline
A man who could not take no from a woman after he professed love to her has assaulted her in Lagos state.

Kingsley Richard Ereremena, 28 has been arrested and charged before Isolo Magistrates court for allegedly biting and attempting to strangle a woman, Destiny Dominic who rejected his love passes on her.

PM Express reported that the incident happened at 19 Isolo Way, Ajao Estate where the defendant went to meet the complainant to woo her. The victim who deals on second-hand clothes had rejected love advances on different occasions before this incident happened.

Our correspondent gathered that on the day the incident happened, Ereremena went to the victim as before to woo her and she still rejected him and he became angry. In anger, Ereremena reportedly grabbed and held her tightly and bit her on her fore head. The victim bled profusely and was taken to a hospital for treatment.

The matter was reported to the Police at Ajao division and Ereremena was arrested and taken to court. He was charged with conduct likely to cause breach of public peace and attempted to strangle the victim. He pleaded not guilty. The presiding Magistrate, Mr A.O. Ogbe granted him bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum.

The matter was adjourned till 27 July 2017. The defendant was remanded in prison custody pending when he will perfect his bail condition.
A man nearly killed his girlfriend after he brutally attacked and stabbed her on the neck for allegedly cheating on him.

A 42-year-old wood carver has been arrested for allegedly stabbing a 24-year-old diploma student of the University of Ghana, Legon in the neck.

The suspect, identified as Ibrahim Musah, allegedly committed the act after suspecting the victim, supposed to be his girlfriend, of cheating on him, Ghana Web reported.

He is said to have spotted another man coming from the room of the girl on campus when he visited her last Friday night, and this resulted in a misunderstanding among the three of them.

Musah, who was said to be boiling with rage, allegedly left the scene but returned a few minutes later with a piece of broken ceramic receptacle and stabbed Zara Hussein in the neck.

The victim fell unconscious and was rushed to the Legon Hospital where she is still on admission receiving treatment. An eyewitness account indicated that the incident occurred at about 9pm. The victim is a Diploma 2 Adult Education student and a resident of Akuafo Hall.

Around 9pm we heard the victim and the suspect in the company of another man arguing outside and when we came out, we realised that Musah had slapped the other man, not known on campus, according to the source.

The source said some of the students around immediately apprehended Musah when the student fell unconscious, and handed him over to the universitys security personnel, who in turn handed him over to the Legon Police.

ASP Efia Tenge, the Accra Regional Public Relations Officer, told this paper that the Legon security patrol handed over Ibrahim Musah to the Legon police for investigation and subsequent prosecution.

She confirmed that the suspect was accused of stabbing his girlfriend after meeting another man in her room when he visited her on campus at Akuafo Hall.

She said the victim was in critical condition receiving treatment at the Legon Hospital.

Meanwhile, in suspect Musahs caution statement, he confessed committing the crime but added that the victim is his fiance whom he had been dating for the past two years.

ASP Tenge said the suspect claimed that he and the lady had planned to get married after the Ramadan fast.

Musa, who was in tears, said Zara had for some months now not shown interest in him, despite their planned marriage, thus making him suspect that she might be flirting with another man.
A worker at Green World, a drug producing firm on the estate, allegedly killed his Chinese boss, Alice Xu at Tayo Laose Close, Akinola Cole Estate, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos State.

According to reports, it was learnt that the incident happened around 8pm on Friday at the firm, which the 26-year-old Chinese woman also used as a residence.

It was said that the suspect, 28-year-old Okechukwu Amos, a casual worker, sneaked into Xus apartment while she was asleep and covered her nose with a cloth until she suffocated.

Our correspondent gathered that the suspect had complained that the boss usually harassed him, and decided to deal with her that day.

Not done, Amos reportedly ransacked the apartment and allegedly stole about N800,000 and $2,000, which belonged to the deceased.

To evade arrest at the estate gate, which is manned by private guards and two policemen, our correspondent gathered that Amos disguised as a mentally-derailed person.

Luck, however, ran out on him.

A security guard, who spoke to PUNCH Metro on condition of anonymity, said the suspect almost escaped from the gate, but he unearthed his identity and alerted one of the policemen.

He said, I was at the security post around 9pm that day when I saw a man half-naked. He walked towards the gate bare-footed. He was holding a pair of slippers and carrying a load wrapped with a shirt on his head.

I initially took the man for a mad person, but after a closer look, I discovered that he is Ikechukwu (Amos). I asked him what was wrong and why he was dressed like that. He said he was angry and that he was quitting his job at the the company. I asked if the person that brought him to the company was aware, he said no.

I volunteered to call the person, but he refused. I requested to know the content of the bag with him, he was reluctant.

That was when I became suspicious and called a policeman, who was at the gate with me. He interrogated him and forced him to open the bag. The bag contained a lot of cash. He led the policeman to the company, where we found the woman dead.

The guard said Amos was handed over to the police at the MAN Centre division.

When our correspondent visited the scene of the incident around 1pm on Sunday, the firm was under lock and key.

A worker at a nearby a neighbouring company, who gave his name simply as Abubakar, said the premises had been shut since Friday.

It was when I came to work on Saturday that I learnt about the incident. I was shocked. The woman was young and usually jogged around the estate. I think it was greed that made Amos to kill the woman, he added.

A police source said the suspect in his statement stated that he had endured frequent harassment by the woman and decided to punish her.

The source said, He was employed recently by the woman through somebody and he worked at the supply department. He alleged that the woman had been very insulting and disrespecting to him over a period of time.

He gained access into her apartment when she had slept and tied her up. He covered her mouth and nose and the woman died because she could not breathe properly. He said he only wanted to punish her and didnt mean to kill her. Sums of N800,000 and $2,000 belonging to the woman were recovered from him.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Olarinde Famous-Cole, confirmed the incident, adding that the suspect had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Yaba.

He said, We have the suspect in our custody and he has made confessional statement. He has been transferred to the SCIID for further investigation.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
A new law in Sokoto state will mandate potential suitors to add insecticide-treated mosquito nets to the brideprice they pay before getting married.

The couple will also have to undergo testing for sickle cell gene and enrol for a state community contributory health scheme to reduce the cost of medical treatment, according to the law.

Sokoto health commissioner Balarabe Kakale said the law makes it compulsory for couples to undergo testing for HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B.

The state health ministry is to sponsor a private bill before Sokoto legislature.

But that will not come until a seminar agrees on the position of the law, Islam, and culture on premarital testing.

Kakale said the measures were meant to reduce the menace of the diseases in Sokoto

Source: Yabaleftonline
OAP Freeze took to his Instagram page to reveal that his kids attend the same school as Kidnapper Evans kids.

In an Instagram post he wrote;

Just found out today, from a friend of mine who lives 2 houses away from Evans, that Evans kids allegedly go to the same school as my kids? Can you imagine?? According to my friend, the latest 2016/2017 Lexus, like the one pictured above, is what he had allegedly seen the wife drive several times. He said that his own wife used to wonder how a woman who couldnt speak english could drive such an expensive car. He assumed that he was a successful igbo trader.

Also, in an Instagram live chat with his friend who lives two houses away from Evans, It was revealed that Evans pays cash for his properties and wanted to redesign his house when he bought it. He also revealed that him and his wife dont attend estate meetings and that he his very softspoken.

Speaking of his personality, Freezes friend said he is very smart, soft spoken but a monster who hardly speaks to anyone in the estate. He also revealed that his wife doesnt speak good english and Mr Evans also cant write.

His wife and kids have allegedly moved to South Africa.

Heres the photo of the car Evans wife allegedly drove:
It was the end of the road for a 300-Level student of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, identified as Fatile Emmanuel, drowned when he went to swim at a hotel outside the university campus.

According to reports, the deceased, who was studying in the Faculty of Pharmacy, died at OAU Teaching Hospital on Sunday at a swimming pool with two of his colleagues when the incident happened.

The president of Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students, OAU branch, AdeyemI Yusuf, lamented the death of his colleague, saying that it was a painful loss to the association and Faculty.

He explained that Fatile died after returning to the pool alone without a life jacket.

He said, We learnt that three of our students that were friends went to a hotel to swim. They were done already, but the deceased entered again to swim alone and drowned.

The other students called for help, but the people around could not also swim. When the lifeguard came, he tried to rescue him, but it was late already.

The doctor said he was brought to the hospital exactly 05.10pm as a lifeless body. After leaving the hospital, we went to the mortuary to confirm that he is dead.

He noted that the parents of the deceased have been notified, adding that three people were currently detained for interrogation.

He said, The police are aware already. The parents are also around from Akure to identify his body. Police have arrested two of our students and the lifeguard for interrogation. 

We are in touch with police to ensure that our students are not wrongly accused or maltreated. The police want the doctor to do postmortem, after which the students will be released.

When contacted on the telephone, the Public Relations Officer of Osun State Police Command, DSP Folashade Odoro, said, The matter is under investigation.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
Yesterday, more facts emerged, about the circumstances that led to the location of the residence of the kidnap kingpin leading to his arrest, last Saturday.

Sources attributed it to an informant residing in Magodo and intelligence reports that revealed identities of his three girlfriends. It was gathered that after the Inspector-General of police deployed his Intelligence Response Team to track the notorious kingpin, they made huge progress from the documents recovered from his hideout in Igando, Lagos after the miraculous disappearance of his last victim.

The documents reportedly aided them in identifying occupants of that apartment and opened an avalanche of information leading to Evans movement. That was how they discovered that he lives at Magodo area of Lagos State, while other members were also residing in Lagos, Rivers, Abuja, Edo and Anambara States.

A source who spoke with Vanguard disclosed that the leader of IGPs team, Abba Kyari, who was tracking their locations had planned to round-up all the suspects, in one swoop, but his plans failed as Evans was always changing locations, making it difficult to get his exact location. The source who spoke with Vanguard on the condition of anonymity disclosed that, while Kyari was searching for Evans, and has also mobilized some residents of Magodo Estate, giving them clear descriptions of Evans, his vehicles and the name of his security man, IGP, Ibrahim Idris, also announced a bounty of N30million on information that could lead to the arrest of Evans.

This led to the rounding up of three women believed to be Evans girlfriends, and they were identified as Amaka, Ijeoma and Ngozi. The operatives were said to have discovered that Evans was very close to Amaka and he rented an apartment for her in Okota area of Lagos State. Sources explained that Evans was fond of sleeping in Amakas house on a regular basis and they decided to use Amaka to lure him.

It was further gathered that fearing that Amaka may have been picked by the police, he avoided her as much as he could. However, one of the police informants in Magodo made a breakthrough as the IRT were banking on Amaka, and he called and informed the police that he has located Evans apartment. He also disclosed that Evans has not been seen around his house for a long time and he was believed to have moved out of his house.

Source revealed that, Evans was highly elusive at this time and he was quite aware that the police were closing in on him and he moved away from his home and relocated to a hotel in Agidigingbi area of Ikeja adding that he also moved his wife and children to Ghana and was trying to dispose some of his properties at the time he was arrested.

On the day he was arrested, according to sources, he was said to be unaware that operatives had located his apartment in Magodo, when he contacted Ama ka on Saturday morning. He was said to have called her on the phone around 4:15am, without knowing that some policemen were with her and asked her to wait outside her compound to meet him. She reportedly joined him later at the spot and as soon as she got into the car, he attacked her, threatening to kill her for not informing him about the police presence in her house.

Evans was said to have gotten angry and drove away with her in his Grand Cherokee SUV and they had an accident at Iyana-Ipaja area where he abandoned the vehicle, seized Amakas phone and asked her to go home. It was from there that he picked a cab to his residence at Magodo to pick some few things towards travelling out of the country. After then, we swooped on him and arrested him inside his bedroom.

Source: Naijaloaded
Five militants have been killed by the Malian security forces in an attack at the weekend on a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates outside Malis capital Bamako.

This was without doubt a terrorist attack, Security Minister Salif Traore told Radio France International.

The anti-terrorist forces arrived on the scene immediately afterwards. Five terrorists were killed  The operations continued throughout the night.

Traore added that the militants had some accomplices who had not been killed or detained. On Sunday night, authorities reported that two of the assailants had been killed.

Authorities said that gunmen on Sunday attacked a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates just outside Malis capital, Bamako, killing two people.

Traore who called the attack a terrorist act, said that 36 guests were rescued.

Four gunmen arriving on motorbikes and a car stormed Le Campement Kangaba, near Dougourakoro, to the east of the capital Bamako, a resort that foreign residents visit for weekend breaks.

Malian security forces backed by French troops deployed to push them out.

Traore said: At first we thought they were armed bandits but we know how armed bandits operate, they dont hold territory, so now we think it is a terrorist attack.

According to a Reuters witness, Malian security forces, UN peacekeeping mission vehicles and French military armored vehicles surrounded the resort.

A helicopter circled overhead.

In a later news conference, Traore said Malian forces fatally shot two of the attackers but the other two escaped and were being pursued.

The minister said an attacker had been wounded and fled, leaving a submachine gun and six bottles of explosives behind.

Were now in the process of combing the area to verify no one is hiding anywhere, Traore said.

One of victims killed in the attack was a French-Gabonese citizen, while the other has not yet been identified, Traore said.

He said that both were killed by gunfire.

The minister said two hotel staff workers and two guests were also wounded by bullet.

Traore said eight policemen were wounded in the shootout with the attackers.

Security has gradually worsened across Mali since French forces pushed back Islamist and Tuareg rebel fighters in 2013 from swathes of the north they had occupied the previous year.

Initially concentrated in the desert north, attacks have increasingly struck the center and south, around Bamako.

Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and another militant group claimed responsibility for an attack on a Bamako hotel in 2015 in which 20 people were killed.

Traore said of the 36 people who escaped unharmed, there were 13 French citizens, 14 Malians, and also Spanish, Dutch, Egyptian and Kenyan nationals.

Daniel Okwogo, a Kenyan guest who witnessed the attack, said that about 30 minutes after his arrival he heard the gunshots.

So  we took a cover, slipped under the bed and then the security team came and evacuated us, Okwogo said.

Witness Boubacar Sangare was just outside the compound during the attack. Westerners were fleeing the encampment while two plainclothes police exchanged fire with the assailants, he said.

French troops and a 10,000-strong UN peacekeeping force have battled to stabilise Mali, a former French colony riven by ethnic conflict and plagued by dozens of armed groups.

A spokesman for French forces in Mali declined to comment.

Source: ( PM News )
This morning, the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) dismissed the charges of false asset declaration against Senate President, Bukola Saraki. Chairman of the tribunal, Danladi Umar, in his ruling said the prosecution team had failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove that Saraki was indeed guilty of false asset declaration.

With this, Nigerians took to social media to share their views on the ruling. As expected many believe the fight against corruption is a futile effort. See their comments below.
A Kenyan policeman has found himself in serious trouble after he allegedly battered his girlfriend and posted her n*des on Facebook.

An administrative Police officer who reportedly broke up with his girlfriend has allegedly physically assaulted the lady, leaving her with a disfigured face, Punch reported.

The report further stated that the policeman identified as Nur Nucho also hacked into her social media account where he posted her n*de photos, perhaps taken when the going was good between them.

Nucho, who was stationed at Korogocho area of Kenya, posted the photos of his ex-girlfriend, Carol on Facebook and WhatsApp pages.

The incident was first revealed by a Facebook user who goes by the name Lloyd Selemani.

In a post shared on a Facebook womens group, Kilimani Mums, Lloyd had shared the photos.

Lloyds post states, This is Nur Nucho, a Police officer from Korogocho who has fallen out with his girlfriend Carol beaten her up and disfigured her face then logged into her FB page and uploaded inappropriate photos. Same applies to her WhatsApp.
Leaders of the South-West, South-East and South-South met in Lagos on Sunday over the ultimatum issued by a coalition of northern youth groups to the Igbo to vacate the 19 northern states on or before October 1, 2017.

The southern leaders demanded the immediate withdrawal of the ultimatum just as they berated the Federal Government for not employing the countrys constitution in addressing the inciting position of the northern groups.

The southern leaders said the failure of the Federal Government to move against the Arewa groups suggested that the youths were not acting alone but had the backing of the northern leadership.

The meeting held behind closed door at the Lekki home of the Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

The communique issued at the end of the meeting, which was endorsed by Adebanjo (South-West), retired Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (South-East) and Chief Albert Horsfall (South-South), was later read to newsmen by the spokesperson for the Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin.

The southern leaders said they viewed the ultimatum as a product of the countrys unresolved nationality problem and expressed displeasure at what they described as the attempt by the Federal Government to narrow the issue down to a problem between the North and the South with the acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, holding meetings with the leaders from the two regions.

They argued that unless the problem of the countrys federalism was addressed, there were bound to be increased sectional agitations.

The southern leaders said, We reject the attempt to reduce the current crisis in Nigeria flowing from the unresolved nationality question to an Igbo and North affair with the patterns of the meetings being held by the acting President to resolve the matter. Any further discussions on this crisis should be between the entire South and the North of Nigeria and the South-East is advised not to consider any further meeting where the South-South and the South-West are not involved because the issues involved affect all of us.

We also demand that the Arewa youths and their sponsors must withdraw the quit notice given to the people of South-East as failure to do so will be taken as an ultimatum to the entire South to quit their region and any attack on any section of the South will be considered as an attack against the entire southern Nigeria.

We, therefore, advise the Federal Government to take it seriously and live up to the primary responsibility of any government which is to protect the live and property of every citizen of Nigeria wherever he or she may reside.

The southern leaders also gave the Federal Government the ultimatum to revisit the report of the 2014 National Conference before October 1, 2017.

We reaffirm our resolve in the implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference aimed at a complete transformation and restructuring of our country and to build and consolidate Nigerias unity through national solidarity, peaceful and harmonious coexistence, progress and genuine developments.

We, the people of southern Nigeria, will want to see concrete steps taken on the implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference before the 1st of October, 2017.

We note that the cry for self-determination will continue unabated and much more strident unless the Federal Government sincerely addresses the issue of restructuring of Nigeria.

Source: ( Punch Newspaper )
An alleged robbery suspect,identified as , Nurudeen Kazeem, who was last week arrested by the operatives of Rapid Response Squad, RRS, of the Lagos State Police Command over the shooting of RRS police officer in LASU-Igando area, has confessed that he honed his shooting skills as a cultist.

Nurudeen, popularly known as Onyabo, 27, a trained tailor turned okada rider, was arrested last week by the RRS Decoy Team in connection with the shooting of an RRS officer investigating chains of robbery cases in LASU-Iba/Igando area.

Nurudeen had shot the officer in the leg while trying to dispossess a delivery man of some expensive phones one of the gang members had ordered online for delivery at a specific address around LASU-Iba Road.

Onyabo, while confessing to the police stated that he shot the officer twice in the leg to avoid arrest.

He added that he was trained to kill by cult members after his initiation into Eiye Confraternity.

I have killed two people in the past. One was to complement my initiation into Eiye Confraternity. I was led to a beer parlour in LASU-Iyana Iba axis, where I was showed a man to kill. I shot the guy there and I escaped.

I killed another guy after shooting at him, I also macheted the victim who was a member of an Eiye confraternity in LASU/Iyana Iba area. I and a friend of mine were forcefully initiated into Eiye Confraternity. We were asked by some guys to use our okada to take them to a naming ceremony.

Those guys changed the route after bringing out guns to scare us and led us into a bush where other innocent guys were to be initiated into the confraternity. In the bush, they beat us mercilessly. That was how we were initiated. Since then, they armed me with gun and cartridges to kill people, particularly, rival cult members. It was while doing this that I was invited into robbery by Cali (Wilfred Ehis), he disclosed.

He added: he invited me to assist him in collecting phones from delivery men. He ordered the phons online, give them the delivery address and we ambush the delivery men and collect the phones at gun point.

Wilfred Ehis, 30, was re-arrested by the operatives after the arrest of Nurudeen.

According to investigations, he had been the brain behind several robberies in LASU-Iyana-Iba and Igando.

Sources revealed that Ehis and his gang members lodged in different hotels around the area.

Ehis, from whom a short gun was also recovered sometimes in April, 2017 in company of three other accomplices had confessed to the police that he hired Nurudeen Kazeem to help him rob delivery men of online shopped phones.

According to Nurudeen, I have done this three times for Cali. I took the phones to him in his hotels, where he stayed. The first operation, he gave me N60,000. The second, he gave me N50,000 and the third, N45,000. The fourth one was the one I shot the police officer. I never knew he was a police officer.

Arrested along with Kazeem were: Yusuph Bello, 33, the gangs armourer from whom two guns and machetes were recovered, and Sunday Hassan, 26, the gangs bike rider.

All the suspects have been transferred to the State Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS office in Ikeja for further investigation.

Source: ( PM News )
A 16-year-old girl was gang-raped by six men and apparently thrown out of a moving train, according to reports from the Police on Monday.

The incident happened in the eastern state of Bihar in India.

Regional police chief Ashok Kumar said that the teenager was abducted near her home in Lakhisarai district by a group of six youths on Friday.

Kumar said she was sexually assaulted at an isolated spot before she was forced into a train at a local station and found hours later on the tracks, injured and unconscious.

The girls family said she had been thrown off the train, a claim that police said it was investigating.

The girl is being treated for serious injuries. We have arrested one of the suspects, a boy, in the case. Results of medial tests to confirm sexual assault are being awaited, Kumar said.

Local media reports said the teen was in a critical condition and fighting for her life at a government hospital where she was being treated.

Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, promised strong action against the accused.

Sexual violence has been a focus of public attention in India since the fatal gang rape of a student on a bus in New Delhi in December 2012.

Activists say little has changed in attitude towards sexual assault, and attacks on women continue unabated.

Source: (dpa/NAN)
The marital crisis drama between Tonto Dikeh and her husband Olakunle Churchill, is about to be escalated, as OAP Lara Olubo took to Instagram to share text messages Tonto Dikeh sent Churchills mum, after she begged her to grant her son access to her grandson Andre.

Heres what Lara wrote as she shared screenshots of the text messages.

Dear Mama/Papa king! Im taking dis up publicly for pple 2know dat as a family we hv tried 2settle dis rift btwn u both!

I wish nd pray someday soon all dis ld stop nd u both can come togeda as one 2raise OUR KING!

Anike, I know wt d help of no one u wl raise King 2d best of ur ability, d Zenith bank acct ur ola opened 4ur son is accessible 2u, he cant lack anything.

But i need u 2know u hv a SON darling! The bond btwn a father nd a SON is always very thick! Wt all what is goin on right now, even if we all forget about it, internet wld remind ur Son, pple wld bring all dis out sooner or later!

Deep down inside ur heart u know ur hubby never raised his hands on u, u know how much u hv blocked all access 2reach u nd we are still trying to! Deep down inside ur heart u know dis Issue started wt u nd my Aunt bcos ur hubby bought a house for his mom!

All the fabrications going round has been crafted to tarnish his image. Both of you never had any prior problems about infidelity and Domestic Violence like you mentioned during your interview.. The chronicles of all the problems started

when u caused a scene for 2 hours straight breaking down all the electrical appliances and interiors in the newly finished house he acquired for his mom last December in the process of doing all dis, u attacked ur mom inaw physically which is a Taboo in YorubaLand; The house warming was fixed 4d next day and u ruined it 4my aunt who had flown all d way from UK to enjoy the comfort of her new house.

The injuries u sustained while breaking appliances is d injury on ur leg. Ola left for Ghana to cool off with Dunlop slippers after u had destroyed all his personal effects. We all his family members saw dis nd blamed him that he had covered up too much bcos of ur image! Dont forget he has family and it is time that we come out and say something.

Mom King, I wish u can allow us as a family to settle dis amicably, u know how many family meetings weve called nd u never showed up!

I just wish nd pray u both can be one again, i wish u can gv us d audience to settle dis! I know u both are adult thou nd old enough to take decisions about ur lives!

She continued;

Hmmmmm! Anike!

Wt all u hv done nd said to my Aunt we still forgave u bcos no one is perfect! When i saw dis msg u sent to heri was in shock nd all shaken up.

We still feels we can settle dis Anike bcos of KING, but u refused to pick anyones call nor make urself available to settle dis. Please my dear, since u made up ur mind dat u are not coming back, then let all dis be! Let it go!

Move on wt ur life dear, u guys dont need to abuse nor say nasty things to one another no more! U guys dont need to try nd destroy one anothers career no more!

All I truly want to do is to appeal to u Anike to let him have full access to his son and make him available to him regardless of ur differences..I do not want dis boy to grow up and have sad moments when his peers would taunt him with negative stories about his parents from years ago; hes a major priority to him and Hell do anything to protect his son and family from bad vibes..Internet never forgets oo.

He has tried all things humanly possible to get through to u and his son; Searching 4u both for d past weeks, Hes bnRoaming Abuja to find u guys just to see his son.

Kai! And u both are so good togeda o nd we know u both compliment one another! Esu ma labara oooo sugbon ko ni igbala!

Im not saying m

y brother is right nor wrong, neither saying u are right nor wrong! Whatever that is hidden is open in Gods presences!

My mothers saying love keeps account of no wrong im begging both of u for the sake of the love u both hv for ur son! Please, let dis go! if u do not want us to be one family no more! Just let it go nd move on then!

If u both cant get over each other, then lets settle dis. marriage is not by force. Neither is Marriage for everyonetheirs no need goin to the extreme acting on the threat u made claiming u gave him fame and ull take it back!

A make up artist that could skillfully make u look like a man; Can as well do a make up to convincingly present Pictures of Domestic Violence. We all know how these things work in the movie industry.

Kai! I know Nigerians would tongue lash me for this, Aburo mi ni Kunle oo, Eje mi ni ooo but its okay! But i beg u all bloggers, after dis, let them be!

Here are the text messages;
The Imo State Police Command have arrested a five-woman gang who specializes in child trafficking, for stealing a three year-old boy in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects have since been identified as Chinonye Okere, Joy Ama, Eucheria Amadi, Pauline Uzoamaka and Nnenne Okere.

Parading them before newsmen in Owerri, the state capital, the Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, commended the Surveillance Unit of the command, led by Bassy Asamba, a Superintendent of Police, for doing a good job and for going the extra mile to Lagos to rescue the child. Punch reports.

Ezike described the suspects as a chain, whose act could best be described as shameful.

In the 21st Century when people are engaging in productive activities, like going to the moon, these ones are shamelessly engaging in buying and selling of Gods beautiful creation. To learn that they sold this handsome child for a pittance of N600,000 is most annoying and shameful. We will not spare them. We will arraign them in court on Monday (today) for them to answer their charges. The gang is a criminal chain and we will ensure that the law takes its full cost, he said.

Responding to a question, Ezike said the police officer identified as Felix, whom the suspects accused of being part of the gang, was facing an orderly room trial and would be dismissed and charged to the court if found guilty of being part of the child-trafficking syndicate.

When interviewed, the prime suspect, Okere, who allegedly stole the child at a funeral ceremony confessed to the crime, but stated that one police man, Felix, planned and executed the criminal act with her.

She said that her husband and one other person she named as being part of the crime, Rose, were on the run.

The alleged buyer, 55-year-old Uzoamaka, who told newsmen that she lived in Lagos, said she bought the child for N600,000 from 54 year-old Mrs. Amadi in Nnewi, Anambra State in April.

Source: Yabaleftonline
Systematic strategies saw 29 percent of hedge fund industry inflows over the last seven years, according to a Barclays report.

Hedge funds with quantitative strategies are pulling in more than their weight.

Systematic strategies have taken almost twice their fair share of hedge fund allocations since 2010, according to a Barclays prime services report this month. Quant funds attracted $114 billion, or 29 percent of total inflows over the last seven years, despite accounting for only 17 percent of hedge fund assets under management.

Thats the largest slice of the industry such funds have represented in the past decade, with about $500 billion of assets last year. Quant managers will probably continue to benefit from a decline in algo aversion as investors increasingly accept systematic strategies, according to the report.

Investors are overwhelmingly in favor of growing their systematic allocations in the short term, Barclays said in the report. Recent inflows have tended to favor systematic managers  particularly equity quant.

The firm expects that 54 percent of investors to embrace equity quant strategies this year, up from 48 percent last year. Thirty-six percent of investors had algorithm-free portfolios in 2016, the firm said, estimating the proportion without allocations to systematic strategies would decline to 30 percent this year.

While quant funds are becoming more popular, Barclays said their performance has not been much better than the whole hedge fund industry. The firm found very little to differentiate equity quant funds that are market neutral from discretionary hedge funds, though systematic funds tended to outperform their discretionary peers during equity market corrections. They also offer lower correlation to other equity and hedge fund strategies.

Barclays said that more than half of the systematic managers it studied were investing in new tools like big data and machine learning in an effort to improve their investment processes. Although these techniques come with their own challenges  including the cost of acquiring data and assessing which data sets are actually useful  the meaningful level of capital that managers are starting to deploy toward such initiatives ... offers a clear indication of the importance that managers are attributing to new data sources and the pivotal role they will play in the future.

Even more traditional hedge fund managers are increasingly adopting quantitative techniques, Barclays added, resulting in a surge in what they termed quantamental managers.

While systematic hedge fund strategies continue to remain a minority of the overall hedge fund industry assets under management, there are numerous signs to indicate that they may be in for sustained growth in the short and long term, Barclays said in the report.
The partnership will see Hello Claims implement its smart assessing and digital management platform to manage and repair taxis and speed up the claims cycle for ATL taxi policyholders. The firm will complete assessments within 48 hours with repairs completed in an average of five days.



Search and compare insurance product listings for Taxis from specialty market providers here

The partnership came together after a three month proof of concept trial but ATL embarked on an exclusive agreement with Hello Claims after two months of that trial.

Steve Nichols, CEO of ATL, said that the partnership is a positive step forward for the business.

The data from the digital platform also enables us to see and manage risks as they occur across the supply chain, helping us to make more informed business decisions, Nichols said.

Nick Herford, founder and CEO of Hello Claims, said that the deal will provide efficiency for policyholders while reducing operational costs and the lifecycle of claims for ATL.

As a disruptor to the motor insurance industry, we are dedicated to continual improvement of our technology, that will provide our clients with a strong competitive edge, now and well into the future, Herford said.





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ARAG Services Corporation, ARAG Groups operations in Canada, has appointed Scott Williams as chief financial officer and Graham Martin as assistant vice president in charge of underwriting operations.



Williams, who will also act as principal broker, is a CPA with over 25 years experience in the Canadian insurance industry with a focus on financial and operations management. Meanwhile, Martin has almost two decades of legal expenses insurance experience in the UK and in Canada.



Im really pleased to bring such talented people aboard to help develop the ARAG story in Canada, said ARAG Services Corporation CEO, Peter Talacek. This is an important time for the company and sustaining our initial growth depends on having the right people in the organisation. The subsidiary was launched in 2016.



Search and compare insurance products for D&O Liability from specialty market providers here



ARAG Services Corporation develops legal insurance products and manages underwriting, sales, and marketing activities in the Canadian market while Brit Syndicate at Lloyds is the assigned risk carrier. The Toronto-based subsidiary is an authorised coverholder of Lloyds.



Talacek cited Williams wealth of experience working with managing general agents (MGAs) and described it as highly beneficial since they are doing more and more business with MGAs.



As for Martin, Talacek said, To find a candidate with a legal protection background was a distinct bonus, but that he has worked both in the UK market and here (Canada), almost since the concept of legal expenses insurance was introduced in Canada, makes Graham almost uniquely qualified and a great asset to the team.



Paul-Otto Fabender, chairman, CEO, and majority shareholder of the ARAG Group, last year said that Canada offers extraordinarily interesting growth prospects as legal insurance is largely unknown there.





Related stories:

Risk management firm launches legal expense insurance product

Legal insurer ARAG moves into Canada with Toronto HQ


It looks like the fastest way to insurers hearts could be though the stomach  if Brussels was serious about luring relocating firms with waffles and, well, high-quality beer.At a breakfast briefing for insurance firms, Belgiums deputy director of economic and financial policy reportedly told insurers not only about the countrys strong regulatory regime but also about beer and the famous Belgian waffles.Sure, it was a joke by Tom Franck but it just might work, as he revealed to The Mail that there could be more good news following moves by Lloyds of London and Australian insurer QBE Sharing that talks are ongoing with a few companies, Franck is hopeful that in the long run moves to Belgium would lead to big operations. Headquarters have trickle-on effects down the road. You move some activities, and see if it works or not, he was quoted as saying.Meanwhile, QBE already has at least 70 employees in Brussels and the chief executive of its operation in Europe has said that the Belgian city represents the biggest existing European presence for the business.Announcing the Brussels pick earlier this month, Richard Pryce was quoted by the Financial Times as saying, We have an operation that is scalable and we know the regulator. In the end it wasnt a particularly difficult decision.As for Lloyds of London, CEO Inga Beale has told Bloomberg that Brussels will always allow them to operate with the changes that Brexit will bring. We can secure continuous investment from our European partners, seamlessly, she said.Beale cited Brussels robust reputation for regulation and multilingual talent. Lloyds intends to move about 100 jobs to the Belgium hub.
The following opinion article is written by Vic Lance, the founder and president of Lance Surety Bond Associates For many professionals, working from the comfort of home is an unattainable dream. However, if you want to work as an insurance broker, you can certainly realize it without making a sacrifice with your professional development.Working from home is definitely possible because the type of activities you need to undertake often involve phone calls and online arrangements. You also have to meet with business partners and customers, but you dont necessarily need a whole office for that.To get started, you need to fulfill your states requirements for licensing, set up your home office, and start working on your business network. Lets look at the basic steps you need to go through to start working from home as an insurance broker.

Get licensed in your state

Your first step towards starting your work from home insurance brokerage is to get acquainted with the licensing requirements set by your state authorities. In most places in the US, insurance brokers have to get a license, so that they are allowed to operate legally.The licensing process typically entails completing a detailed application form in which you include personal and business information. You need to provide the documents for your business entity registration, as well as your business location, which will be your home address. You may also need to undergo a criminal background check and fingerprinting. Insurance policies may also be required to protect your business. In the majority of cases, you will have to undergo special training courses and show proof of your professional experience.One of the most important licensing requirements in most states is posting an insurance broker bond. Together with the rest of the criteria for licensing, it is an extra layer of safety for your customers. The surety bond guarantees you will follow applicable state laws in all your operations. If you fail to do so, harmed parties can claim compensation via a bond claim.

Set up your home office
by Timothy MontalesLucky Lure Tackles weekly Tuesday night jackpot bass tournaments in Lake Hefner have been cancelled; while David Hughes, owner of the Oklahoma City tackle store, was informed he must buy an insurance policy to cover the city from liabilities should the tournaments push forward. The weekly jackpot tournaments were held for seven years on the lake.I think it is a little bit senseless because they got all kinds of other events that nobody is buying a permit for much less buying an insurance policy for. It is pretty aggravating to me, Hughes said in a NewsOK article.Jennifer McClintock, public information officer, Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust, stated that requiring an insurance policy for activities on the citys public lakes and properties is fundamental.In an email sent to The Oklahoman, McClintock said that: Any business that wishes to offer an event to the public and charge a fee for said event (including parks and lakes) is required to have a city permit and event insurance. This protects the city and the taxpayers from liability should an accident occur during the event. This is true for sporting events (5Ks, ball games, etc.), as well as concerts, exercise programs (i.e. cross fit and boot camps) and other events.McClintock also said that city officials were unaware of the bass tournaments amid its seven year run until recently, while Lisa Hubbell, trust specialist, Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust, believed that it would be a different story if it was only a social gathering and not a tournament where money was involved.If they were just fishing as part of their fishing permit, we wouldnt care. But as soon as you pull it into an actual tournament, its an organized event. From the citys standpoint, we dont want to be exposed to liability, Hubbell stated.McClintock mentioned that private groups hosting events like a birthday party or a reunion who are not charging an admission can rent facilities without buying insurance, but a special event permit and insurance will be required if the event is hosting 75 people.The city processes hundreds of event and permitting requests annually on multiple properties, so this is part of our standard operating procedure, she added.
by Timothy MontalesA $94 million online health insurance system has some Illinois state employees and agencies confused and the Rauner administration rushing to eliminate the systems bugs.A ruined system that has refused coverage without notice and halted payroll deductions has been the subject of complaints from state workers, while the head of the Teachers Retirement System, which has 106,000 retirees who rely on the coverage, has highlighted that neither the specifications nor the system account for Medicare coverage, according to the Associated Press.Morneau Shepell was the only company to respond to the Department of Central Management Services November 2015 request, which was posted for just 26 days, to create a web-based portal to manage health insurance options. Documents report that CMS staff members were informed to proceed without following rules for ensuring minority-owned business participation, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times website.The state has paid the company $375,000 but owes $9.4 million for more than a years work. CMS has yet to submit a voucher for the entire fiscal year that ends June 30, while officials say that a two-year stalemate over a state budget has yielded too little money to cover state bills. However, from four accounts assigned to cover Morneau Shepell costs, CMS has paid more than $29 million for other bills in the 2017 fiscal year.The program replaced a paper-driven system which was administered by dozens of CMS and state government employees, with no workers laid off. The online framework permits them to perform higher-level healthcare tasks for which there was previously little time, said Teresa Flesch, benefits director, CMS, and she added that the state will save $500 million every year as the website becomes fully functional as a marketplace that allows employees and retirees to customize benefits to bring healthcare costs to a reasonable level.Richard Ingram, executive director, Teachers Retirement System, forecasted that it could be a while, and added that the program was not adequately tested before it went online.It was poorly scoped out in terms of what was required to do the work, particularly for the retirement systems. Its been one pain after another trying to implement the plan, he mentioned.Tim Blair, director, State Employees Retirement System, stated that few would question the need to forego a paper process, yet the problems indicate a rush. It just seems like it was done quickly, he said.Due to years of underfunding of the group health insurance program, there was an urgency to achieve cost savings so we could pay our bills more timely, and there was significant cost-savings associated with the plan design, Flesch said.
Caps on how much money patients injured by a doctors mistakes can receive were declared unconstitutional by the Florida Supreme Court June 8, a decision that strikes down one of former Gov. Jeb Bushs major policy victories.

The court ruled that the caps placed into law in 2003 were arbitrary and theres no proof that they reduced malpractice insurance rates that lawmakers were attempting to contain. Even if they have, theres no present crisis to justify the caps. In a 4-3 decision, justices also said the caps unfairly hurt those most severely injured by doctors mistakes.

The caps on noneconomic damagesarbitrarily reduce damage awards for plaintiffs who suffer the most drastic injuries, the court said.

The law limited non-economic damages, which includes pain and suffering, against doctors in malpractice cases to $500,000, or $1 million if the injuries were catastrophic. The issue was so important to Bush that he called lawmakers back to the Capitol for three special legislative sessions to get a bill passed.

The case the court ruled on involves a woman who was severely injured while doctors performed wrist surgery to alieve her carpal tunnel syndrome at a Broward County hospital. An anesthesia tube punctured Susan Kalitans esophagus during the surgery. She awoke and complained of severe back and chest pain. Doctors were unaware of the injury and gave her pain medication and sent her home, according to court documents.

A neighbor checking on Kalitan the next day found her unconscious. She was rushed to the hospital where doctors performed life-saving surgery. She remained in a drug-induced coma for several weeks and later had additional surgeries and intensive therapy to be able to eat again, according to court documents. She continues to endure pain and mental trauma.

A jury awarded her $2 million for past pain and suffering and $2 million for future pain and suffering. A lower court judge determined that Kalitans injuries were catastrophic, but the non-economic award was reduced by about $3.3 million because of the medical malpractice caps and separate law that limited the government-run hospitals liability to $100,000.

She suffered mentally and will for the rest of her life, said Nichole Segal, a lawyer representing Kalitan. She has issues raising her arms and going through the motions of daily life.

Segal said the ruling not only helps a deserving client, but will change future malpractice cases from the moment theyre filed. She said many plaintiffs were settling for less than they deserved because of the caps and some law firms werent taking up cases because they can be very expensive to litigate and the limits made them less profitable.

This will affect every single person who brings a medical negligence case, she said.

The Florida Medical Association, which supports caps, didnt immediately comment on the ruling.

The ruling is North Broward Hospital District v. Susan Kalitan.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Florida Legislation Medical Professional Liability
Two Connecticut men have been convicted of staging car crashes to defraud insurance companies.

Federal prosecutors say 32-year-old Mackenzy Noze, and 33-year-old Jonas Joseph, both of Norwich, Conn., were convicted by a jury Thursday of multiple fraud and conspiracy offenses.

Authorities say between April 2011 and February 2014, the two men and others staged about 50 crashes. Many were single-vehicle accidents on remote roads where there were no witnesses other than the occupants of the vehicle.

After each accident, the defendants filed fraudulent property damage and bodily injury claims with various automobile insurance companies, collecting anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 each time.

They both face up to 20 years in prison at sentencing in September.

Five other people charged in the investigation have already pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Auto Numbers Connecticut
Eighteen people were injured after a high-speed ferry struck a jetty in Hyannisport, Mass., and began taking on water, authorities said.

The U.S. Coast Guard and steamship authority said the ferry, Iyanough, hit the jetty and grounded on the rocks at the Hyannis Harbor entrance around 10 p.m. Friday. It serves a 26-mile (42-kilometer) route between Nantucket and Hyannis.

The ferry is operated by the Woods Hole, Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority, connecting the Massachusetts islands with the mainland. It can hold up to 400 people.

Steamship Authority general manager Wayne Lamson said Saturday its still not clear what led to the crash and an investigation is underway. He said the seas were about 4 feet (1.2 meters), and the captain and the pilot may have had difficulty with the entrance to Hyannis in the harbor channel.

The trip had been the last one of the night, Lamson said.

The authority had said in a statement that bad weather, strong winds and choppy seas are believed to have contributed to the grounding of the vessel.

There were 48 passengers, six crew members and three food service workers on board, according to the authority. Hyannis acting Fire Chief Dean Melanson said that a total of 18 people were injured. And of those, 15 people  13 passengers, one crew member and one food service worker  were taken to the hospital. The other three underwent evaluations that did not require them to be hospitalized.

Melanson said the injuries included bumps and bruises, and one person had an asthma attack. But none of the injuries are considered life-threatening.

A Cape Cod Hospital spokeswoman said the injured had been treated and released by noon Saturday.

Lamson said the ferry was removed early Saturday morning and is currently at the authoritys dock in Hyannis. Temporary repairs are being made to the vessel.

The steamship authority has charted a vessel to fill in for the weekend and a different one for next week, Lamson said.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Massachusetts
Lawyers who represent injured workers in South Dakota are preparing for a proposal from the insurance industry that would limit their ability to pursue legal claims against insurance companies that are intentionally dishonest.

Insurance industry representatives were scheduled to present the proposal to the state Workers Compensation Advisory Council later this month, a step that could lead to legislation limiting injured workers from pursuing bad faith claims against insurance companies. But lawyer Mike McKnight, who represents insurance companies, said the proposal is delayed until August.

Were going to have some further discussions  both sides, the other claimant lawyers, trial lawyers, etc.  and see if we can come to some resolution of it, McKnight said.

Lawyers representing workers expect the proposal to include caps on damages awarded in bad faith cases or even barring those claims from being filed at all, the Argus Leader reported.

Theres been a concern raised in the past that worker compensation insurance companies are unduly susceptible to liability for bad faith, said James Marsh, who oversees the state Division of Labor and Management and workers compensation system.

Bad faith claims usually accuse insurance companies of intentionally hiding information from those insured. Should a jury find that a company acted in bad faith, it can levy punitive damages to punish the bad behavior and hopefully deter future similar behavior.

Mike Abourezk is a Rapid City attorney who won a $4 million verdict last year after finding that an insurance company hid the details of a $1 million insurance policy after a woman suffered catastrophic injuries in a car accident. Abourezk said insurance companies are willing to gamble that they wont get caught, especially with workers comp claims where the amount is usually only a few thousand dollars.

He said that by denying legitimate claims, those companies are going to make more money than they lose even if they get caught now and again.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Carriers Claims Workers' Compensation
City Colleges of Chicago will pay $60,000 to settle a federal discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEOC), the federal agency announced.

In its lawsuit, the EEOC charged that Harold Washington College, part of the City Colleges of Chicago system, of refusing to hire Nancy Sullivan, an adjunct professor, for a full-time faculty position because of her age (66).

Sullivan had worked as an adjunct professor in the English department for five years before applying for the full-time faculty position. Despite her stellar record as an adjunct and excellent recommendations from several full-time faculty members, Sullivan was passed over in favor of two substantially younger and less experienced candidates, the EEOC said.

Failing to hire a candidate based on age violates the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). The EEOC filed suit against City Colleges on July 31, 2014, after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process. EEOC v. City Colleges of Chicago d/b/a Harold Washington College, Civil Action No. 14-cv-05864, was filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, and Judge Ellis entered the consent decree resolving the litigation.

This is not the first time the EEOC has sued City Colleges for age discrimination. In 2006, the EEOC sued City Colleges challenging an employment decision strikingly similar to the employment decision in the present case. In that case  EEOC v. City Colleges of Chicago, Civil Action No. 06-cv-4346, the EEOC charged that City Colleges violated the ADEA by refusing to hire another one of its adjunct instructors in its English department for a full-time faculty position. The earlier case was also settled by consent decree.

In addition to providing for the $60,000 in monetary relief, the consent decree settling the suit mandates that City Colleges train its employees on age discrimination and report to EEOC any complaints of age discrimination it receives.

Source: EEOC

Topics Lawsuits Education Universities
Farmington Hills, Mich.-based Amerisure Insurance has promoted Chris Spaude to vice president of finance. In this position, Spaude directly reports to Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Matt Simon.

Spaude will be responsible for, and collaborate with, Amerisures strategic and operational leadership teams and field leadership in identifying and implementing business strategies, executable initiatives and plans, enabling the achievement of corporate strategic and operational targets.

He will also lead the companys efforts in industry forecasting and external benchmarking, as well as continue to be responsible for the financial planning, analysis and treasury functions.

He has been with Amerisure for 14 years; he joined the company in 2003 as a budget analyst.

Source: Amerisure

Topics Michigan
A catastrophic blaze at a London apartment tower has brought new scrutiny to a long-accepted, counterintuitive rule for people in tall buildings: If the blaze breaks out elsewhere in the structure, dont automatically run for the stairs. Stay put and wait for instructions.

Thats what residents of Londons 24-story Grenfell Tower had been told to do, but the strategy failed early last Wednesday when flames that began on a lower floor spread shockingly fast and quickly engulfed the entire building.

Many residents were trapped, forcing some on higher floors to jump to their deaths rather than face the flames or throw their children to bystanders below. By Saturday, officials counted 58 people missing and presumed dead, including 30 deaths previously confirmed.

Despite that outcome, fire experts say stay put is still the best advice as long as the building has proper fire-suppression protections, such as multiple stairwells, sprinkler systems, fireproof doors and flame-resistant construction materials, some of which were lacking in the London blaze.

It is human nature for most of us  if we know theres a fire, start moving and get out, said Robert Solomon of the National Fire Protection Association, a U.S.-based organization that studies fire safety globally. But we try to make sure people know there are features and redundancies in buildings that you can count on, and you can stay put.

Several Layers of Protection

Most major cities with many high-rise buildings have detailed building codes and fire safety rules requiring several layers of protections in tall buildings. The rules vary from place to place, as does advice about when to evacuate, but fire experts say the shelter-in-place directive is usually applied to buildings of 15 stories or more.

Floors directly above and below the reported fire are usually evacuated, but others are to stay and use damp towels to block cracks beneath the door unless told otherwise, and call 911 if they have questions.

Thats partly to avoid repeated, unnecessary evacuations that cause people eventually to ignore such orders when they really matter. And it also avoids panicked and unsafe evacuations down a long stairwell choked with smoke, which can be just as deadly as the licking flames.

Several such high-rise evacuations over the years have resulted in needless deaths. In 2014, a man who fled his apartment on the 38th floor of a New York City apartment building died when he encountered a plume of suffocating smoke in a stairwell as he tried to descend to the street. His apartment remained entirely untouched by the flames.

What makes the London fire maddening for fire experts who believe in the `stay put rule is that the Grenfell may have lacked many of the safety redundancies necessary to make it work.

For example, the Grenfell building had only one stairwell. A lawmaker says it didnt have working sprinklers. And Britains Guardian newspaper reported that cladding used on the high-rise structure was made of the cheaper, more flammable material of two types offered by the manufacturer.

The bottom line: Sprinklers, fire doors and multiple stairwells work, said Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Conroy. It becomes difficult to shelter-in-place when you have no engineered fire protection systems within a building.

New York City Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro, whose department is among the most practiced in the world at fighting fires in tall buildings, says he believes in the stay-put policy but what happened in London, in which a fire went from the fourth floor to the 21st floor in what we understand was in 17 minutes, is unprecedented.

The sister of a man still missing in the London blaze told reporters that when she phoned him on the 21st floor as the fire spread, he said he hadnt evacuated with his wife and three children because fire officials told him to stay inside, stay in one room together and put towels under the door. Hana Wahabi said she begged her brother, Abdulaziz Wahabi, to leave but he told her there was too much smoke.

Future Guidance

One question now is whether people will heed that guidance with the Grenfell disaster fresh in their minds.

There is no way I am waiting to die in a building. I am getting out to safety, said Jennifer Lopez, who works in a high-rise building a short walk from the World Trade Center in New York City.

Any move away from the shelter in place tactic would put lives at risk, said Simon Lay, a fire safety expert and fellow at the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.

Statistics tell us that defend in place remains the best policy and is based on sound principles as it enables firefighters to work unhindered and protects against the apathy that can develop from exposure to false alarms, he said.

Jonathan Lum, an advertising executive who lives on the 57th floor of a glittering Manhattan tower designed by Frank Gehry, said if a fire breaks out there, he will heed the wisdom of the fire department and stay in his apartment, but partly because he lives in a building constructed in the past decade.

If I were in a different, less modern building with less obvious fire safety, Im not sure how I would feel, honestly, he said.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics New York London
Insurers with the strongest new business yield rates also have strong combined ratios in personal auto in the J.D. Power 2017 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study.

We define new business yield rates as the proportion of prospective customers who purchase with the insurer after shopping.

Three companies emerge as leaders in profitability and new business yield in personal auto insurance. GEICO, Progressive, and Automobile Club of Southern California, a AAA insurer, all maintain a combined ratio less than 100 (in 2015) while acquiring new business more successfully than the other insurers included in the study. Their yield rates are 7.6 percent (GEICO), 4.3 percent (Progressive) and 4.1 percent (ACSC), respectivelywell above the industry average of 2.4 percent (Figure 1).

It is not necessarily the amount of money spent on advertising that influences the new business yield rate, but other factors such as advertisement content, advertisement demographics targeted, word of mouth, and brand reputation.

Looking at the direct premium written (DPW) growth of insurers included in the 2017 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study, GEICO has the highest three-year (2013-2015) DPW compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for private passenger auto, of any brand profiled in the study, at 7.0 percent for private passenger auto. The average CAGR for brands included in the study is 2.5 percent. (Source: J.D. Power Insurance Performance Portal)

Not surprisingly, the three brands (GEICO, Progressive, and ACSC) with the strongest yield rates in the study have above average direct premium growth rates for private passenger auto.

Advertising Spend Impact on New Business Yield Rates

Advertising is a critical component to any business and industry, especially so for a service based industry like insurance. Businesses spend billions of dollars on advertising in the United States every year. According to IHS Global Insight Inc.s report (IHS Economics and Country Risk, Economic Impact of Advertising in the United States, March 2015. ihs.com), total U.S. advertising expenditures in 2015 reached $311.6 billion and were expected to increase to $332.9 billion by 2017.

The property/casualty insurance industry alone spent $6.5 billion on advertising in 2015, with GEICO the only brand to surpass the $1 billion mark, spending $1.3 billion. (Source: J.D. Power calculations based on S&P Global Market Intelligence Platform) See Figure 2 for advertising spend by brands included in the 2017 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study. New business yield rates for personal auto vary widely across insurers, as does advertising spend compared to total direct premium written (all lines) in 2015.

As previously mentioned, GEICO, Progressive, and ACSC (AAA) are the only three insurers in the study to achieve an auto new business yield rate of more than 4 percent and a 2015 combined ratio of less than 100. GEICO and Progressive both target all regions of the United States and have well-known advertising campaigns using such characters as Progressives Flo and the GEICO Gecko. ACSC (AAA) is a regional insurer, but is part of the AAA brand, which utilizes products such as roadside assistance and the AAA brand discounts in its advertising. In recent years, ACSC (AAA) has begun to focus more on services like planning trips, discounts on clothes, restaurants, event tickets, and hotel rooms in its advertisementsmuch more than just roadside assistance.

The analysis in Figure 2 demonstrates that it is not necessarily the amount of money spent on advertising that influences the new business yield rate, but other factors such as advertisement content, advertisement demographics targeted, word of mouth, brand reputation and other items. Insurers spending large amounts of money on advertising should examine factors influencing below-industry average new business yield rates and potentially realign spending.

Ad Spend, Customer Satisfaction Not Driving Higher New Customer Rates

A strong combined ratio and a higher new customer yield rate appear to be related for private passenger auto insurance. Brands with the strongest combined ratios also have the highest new customer yield rates; however, dollar amount spent on advertising and overall purchase experience satisfaction dont necessarily align. Insurers with the strongest yield rates have near-industry average Purchase Experience Satisfaction scores, yet they are still gaining the most new customers. Is it that these brands are most effective in their advertising and pricing, allowing customers to overlook an average purchase experience?

Brands that spend the most on advertising per direct premium written (DPW) are not necessarily seeing a payoff in new customer acquisition, as shown in Figure 2. Brands need to consider advertising content, channel method, and effectiveness rather than just quantity and spend.

Brands should also take a hard look at costs spent on customer acquisition and balance the costs of customer satisfaction initiatives, advertising, and operational/staffing areas and understand how moving the lever on one will impact all. What are the appropriate levels of investment for each of these items which will lead to the company achieving maximum profitability and new customer yields?

Customer satisfaction is still crucial, especially in retaining the hard-fought-for new customers as insurers seek to avoid future churn.

This article originally appeared on CarrierManagement.com.

Topics Carriers USA Auto Underwriting
Gerard Jerry Butler has been appointed senior vice president, Chubb Group, division president, North America Insurance. In his new role, he will have responsibility for the field organization in North America, which includes 48 offices in the United States and Canada. He also will be responsible for executing Chubbs North American business strategies locally by delivering services to the companys agents and brokers and managing these relationships.

Butler, with more than 34 years of experience, including 26 years at Chubb, most recently served as chief operating officer, North America field operations. Prior to the ACE acquisition of Chubb in January 2016, he served as executive vice president and U.S. field territory operations manager for Chubb.

Butler will report to John Lupica, vice chairman, Chubb Group, president, North America major accounts and specialty insurance.

Butler succeeds Harold Morrison who will retire at the end of the year after a 33-year career in the insurance industry. Morrison joined The Chubb Corp. in 1984 and during the course of his career has held a number of managerial and leadership positions for the company. Prior to the acquisition, Morrison was executive vice president of The Chubb Corp. and served as chief global field officer and chief administrative officer, responsible for the companys global field organization, worldwide human resources and the companys administrative areas.

Through the remainder of the year, Morrison will work with Chubbs overseas general insurance division on the development of underwriting and distribution for expansion into the commercial middle market segment in Asia, Latin America and Europe.

Harolds commitment and contributions to Chubb during his tenure have been outstanding. He has been a thoughtful and collaborative partner to me and our broader team since the merger and I look forward to working with him and Jerry on a smooth transition in addition to his continued endeavors for the company, said Lupica.

Succeeding Butler is Jeffrey Updyke, chief operating officer, North American field operations. Reporting to Butler, Updyke will assist in the day-to-day management of the North American field operations, with specific focus on distribution management, data analytics and sales. In addition, he will oversee Chubb Insurance Solutions Agency.

Updyke is a 26-year insurance professional, most recently serving as executive vice president, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regional manager for Chubbs Commercial Insurance unit. Prior to the acquisition, he was the Northeast region chief operating officer.

Topics Chubb
Cunningham Lindsey, a global loss adjusting and risk management services company, has appointed Larry Dan Daniel as chief operating officer (COO) of its U.S. loss adjusting business. He is based in Dallas.

Daniel will provide strategic direction for U.S. operations to enhance service delivery and continual growth with a focus on the personal, commercial and high net worth personal lines. He will also provide operational leadership to additional business units including Vale Training and inTrust TPA services.

Prior to rejoining Cunningham Lindsey recently as senior vice president, Daniel served in numerous executive leadership and client-facing roles during his 20 years in the insurance claims industry.

He works closely with the Americas leadership team including Jim Buckley, president of Cunningham Lindsey U.S., and David Repinski, chief executive officer of Cunningham Lindsey, Americas.

Source: Cunningham Lindsey

Topics USA
Orchid Underwriters Agency, LLC, a specialty underwriter of catastrophic coastal insurance, announced that it expanded its Commercial Lines business to two new states, Alabama and Mississippi.

The two new states join New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Louisiana and Texas as states where the Orchid products are offered. Orchids Commercial Lines division specializes in business owner policies (BOP), monoline property policies and commercial package policies (CPP) with coastal exposure, including a variety of coverage options serving small and medium sized commercial businesses, including habitational risks.

Orchids Vice President of Commercial Lines, Bryan Schofield, said, the new states will leverage the technology from its online quoting platform, Orchid Connect.

Through the combination of product and technology, we now provide wind capacity to the entire Gulf Coast region and plan to expand into eight additional states up the East coast by the end of the year, Schofield added.

Founded in 1998 and based in Vero Beach, Fla., Orchid specializes in providing specialty insurance products for homeowners and small businesses throughout the United States and the Caribbean. The companys product offering includes homeowners and condominium property insurance, including wind and wind only, general and excess flood, earthquake, builders risk and others.

Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance Underwriting Mississippi Alabama
North Carolinas insurance regulator says hes reached a deal with auto insurers for a premium increase of just over 2 percent instead of the nearly 14 percent average increase companies sought in February.

The state Insurance Department said Thursday the new rates will become effective with policies signed after October 1 and will stay in effect for two years.

Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey says the agreed average increase of 2.2 percent meant North Carolina consumers would spend more than $1 billion less over two years than the auto insurance companies initially wanted.

Causey said in March the proposed auto insurance rate increase requested by a group representing the industry was not justified. That set up an administrative hearing planned for September, when a hearing officer could listen to both sides.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Carriers Auto Pricing Trends North Carolina
A Florida city says a former employee stole money to get a butt lift.

A Gainesville city report released Wednesday said Natwaina Clark stole $93,000 from the city, using $8,500 on the cosmetic surgery. The Gainesville Sun said the report shows the 33-year-old Clark also used city money for her cable television bill, food, highway tolls, a television and other expenses.

Clark was fired shortly before she was arrested last March 28 and charged with larceny and scheme to defraud. She has pleaded not guilty.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Florida
A new lawsuit invokes the plight of a baby born dependent on opioid drugs, as three Tennessee prosecutors and the babys guardian accuse several drug manufacturers of unleashing an epidemic through deceptive marketing about the risks of addiction to painkillers.

Baby Doe spent his first days in the neonatal intensive care unit writhing in agony as he went through detoxification, according to the suit filed Tuesday in the Sullivan County Circuit Court in Kingsport, Tennessee. The infant boy, who is not identified, was born in March of 2015.

The baby born to an addicted mother survived after spending 14 days in a neonatal intensive care unit, often crying uncontrollably and was given morphine to wean him from his dependency, the suit says. The child, the documents say, continues to suffer from numerous health and learning disabilities.

The lawsuit was filed by three district attorneys who represent parts of the east Tennessee mountains in Appalachia, which has been the epicenter of the prescription drug epidemic that has ravaged the country. Its among a growing number of lawsuits filed recently around the country against opioid drugmakers.

The lawsuit was announced at Niswonger Childrens Hospital in Johnston City, Tennessee, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of the Virginia state line. The hospital recently added a new neonatal intensive care unit to treat babies with neonatal abstinence syndrome because it has been inundated with infants born dependent on opioids.

Standard treatment for babies born dependent on opioids is giving them small doses of morphine or methadone to help them cope with their withdrawal symptoms before weaning them from the drug.

Tennessee has the second highest statewide opioid prescription rate in the country outside West Virginia, said Barry Staubus, a district attorney who represents Sullivan County. Tony Clark and Dan Armstrong are the other prosecutors who joined in the suit against three drug companies and their subsidiaries.

The lawsuit targets Purdue Pharma, maker of OxyContin; Mallinckrodt PLC, which manufactures and sells multiple painkillers; and Endo Health Solutions, which develops and sells several painkillers, including Opana. The federal Food and Drug Administration recently called for Endo Health Solutions to remove Opana from the market, saying the risks of abuse outweigh the painkillers benefits. The suit also names two convicted drug dealers and an alleged pill mill.

The lawsuit seeks to stop the flood of opioids in Tennessee and to recover an unspecified amount of money for the costs of combatting the epidemic, including medical expenses, drug treatment, and pain and suffering. The suit also seeks to invalidate a Tennessee law limiting the amount of punitive and non-economic damages that people can win in a lawsuit, saying the statute is unconstitutional.

Staubus said he, Clark and Armstrong plan to join with other prosecutors to pressure Tennessee lawmakers to control the explosion of pain clinics and overprescribing of opioids.

Tennessee House Speaker Beth Harwell, a Nashville Republican, asked the states attorney general to consider suing painkiller manufacturers on behalf of the entire state after Ohio filed a lawsuit against five drug companies last month.

A spokesman for Endo Health Solutions did not immediately respond to a phone message seeking comment.

We have broadly supported efforts to combat the opioid abuse health care crisis through a range of advocacy initiatives, direct lobbying campaigns, and charitable activities, a statement from Mallinckrodt said. We take our responsibility as an opioid manufacturer very seriously. The statement said the company only makes generic drugs and does not promote them.

While we vigorously deny the allegations in the complaint, we share public officials concerns about the opioid crisis and we are committed to working collaboratively to find solutions, a statement from Purdue Pharma said. The statement said Purdue works with policymakers, public health officials and law enforcement to address this public health crisis to develop abuse-deterrent technology, advocate for prescription drug monitoring programs and support access to Naloxone.

Plaintiffs attorney Gerard Stranch, managing partner in the Nashville firm Branstetter, Stranch and Jennings, said, We expect this to be a long drawn out battle and were ready.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Tennessee Manufacturing Drugs
An Orange County, Calif. judge says Trinity Broadcasting Network is responsible for the entire $2 million a jury awarded in an alleged sex abuse cover-up.

The judge ruled that TBN is on the hook for the full amount jurors awarded last week to the granddaughter of TBN co-founder Jan Crouch.

Jurors had said TBN was only liable for $900,000.

TBNs lawyer had said that judgment will be appealed.

The granddaughter, Carra Crouch, said she was sexually assaulted by a TBN employee in an Atlanta hotel room when she was 13.

Carra Crouch says that when she told her grandmother, Jan Crouch berated her and never reported the assault to authorities as required by law because she was an ordained minister.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits California Legislation
Banking is at the base of our financial system. Financial meltdowns, like the Crash of 1929 and the 2008 subprime mortgage and credit crisis, make this abundantly clear. When banks fail to function properly, the economy follows, and like many elements of finance, banking has evolved over the centuries.

Mayer and Nathan Rothschild

Mayer Amschel Rothschild grew up in a Jewish ghetto in Germany. In the 1700s, Christian usury laws prevented many people from lending for a profit, leaving merchant banking as one of the few trades a Jewish individual could easily take up. Mayer did so, building a network by lending at low rates to politically important lords and princes. He used his connections to create a family fortune, training his sons in the practice of banking before sending them abroad.

With Mayer Rothschild's children spread across Europe, the Rothschild's bank became the first bank to transcend borders. His son Nathan took over the lead role in pioneering international finance. Using pigeons to communicate with his siblings, Nathan acted as a central bank for Europe  brokering purchases for kings, rescuing national banks and funding infrastructure, like railroads, that would help start the industrial revolution.

Junius and J.P. Morgan

This father and son duo brought true finance to America. Junius Morgan helped George Peabody solidify America's ties with the capital markets in England. The English were the primary buyers of the state bonds being used to build up America. His son, J.P. Morgan, took over the business as the credit his father secured sent the nation into breakneck industrialization. J.P. oversaw the financial reorganization of industries from many competing interests to one or two large trusts with immense power and capital.

This consolidation of power allowed America to burst ahead in production in the 20th century and propelled J.P. to the head of Wall Street. Until the creation of the Federal Reserve Bank, Morgan and his syndicates were America's central banking system.

Paul Warburg

J.P. Morgan's intervention in the Bank Panic of 1907 highlighted the need for a stronger banking system in America. Paul Warburg, a banker with Kuhn, Loeb & Co., helped bring a modern central banking system to America.

Warburg came to America from Germany, a nation long used to the concept of central banking. His writings and involvement in committees heavily influenced and encouraged the design of the Federal Reserve. Unfortunately, one of his more important points, the political neutrality of the Fed, was compromised when the president was given the exclusive power of picking the Fed's leaders. Warburg continued to support and work for the Fed until his death, but he refused to accept any position higher than vice-chair.

Amadeo P. Giannini

Before Amadeo Giannini, Wall Street banks were the picture of elitism. A regular person couldn't walk into the House of Morgan and open a bank account, any more than they could enter Buckingham palace and use the bedrooms. Giannini changed all this by making it his life's purpose to fight for the little guy. Giannini built his bank by soliciting depositors with advertisements and making all sizes of loans in his home state of California.

What would one day become the Bank of America was nearly derailed by Wall Street when Giannini retired. The board brought in a Wall Streeter to replace Giannini and the man turned raider, dismantling the banking network and selling it to friends back on Wall Street. Giannini came out of retirement and won a proxy battle to once again take over his bank.

Once bitten, twice shy, Giannini never truly retired until his death in 1949. He will be remembered not only as one of the few non-Wall Streeters who took on the Street and won, but also as the man who began the democratization of banking. Perhaps the most lasting monument to his life's work is California's status as one of the world's largest economies  due in large part to financing and credit provided by Amadeo Giannini.

Charles Merrill

Heir to the work that Giannini started, Charles E. Merrill had already built a successful investment banking business from scratch and was in semi-retirement when E.A. Pierce and Co. asked him to run their firm. Merrill agreed, provided that his name was added to the company's and that he be given firm control over the company's direction. He took the new opportunity to try out his ideas of "people's capitalism," a concept that he had spent his life building.

Merrill's original firm had been heavily involved in financing chain stores like Safeway, and Merrill wanted to take the lessons of chain stores (i.e., smaller margins but larger sales) to create a retail banking industry. Merrill saw two obstacles to his vision: lack of education and mistrust following the abuses leading to the 1929 Crash.

Merrill attacked these problems head-on. He and his employees wrote hundred of pamphlets about investing and held seminars for everyday people. Merrill even set up free childcare at these seminars so both spouses could attend. His education drive was aimed at demystifying investing and the market for the general public.

Merrill also demystified the workings of his firm, publishing the "Ten Commandments" in a 1949 annual report. It was a public guarantee that the firm would conduct itself in a way that met the demands and dispelled the fears of its clients. The first commandment was that the interests of the customer always come first.

The commandments seem obvious now  seven and eight have to do with disclosure of interest in offerings and advanced warning of the firm's selling of securities  but they were a revolution in how firms approached small client accounts in those days. Merrill died before he saw the resurgence of the individual investor and the benefits his policies had on the firm, but he is credited with both realizing and coining the phrase "bringing Wall Street to Main Street."

A Work In Progress

The evolution of banking is far from over. Our journey started with the mechanics of banking and ended with the democratization of finance for everyone. It's an odd thought that 70 years ago, most banks would simply refuse to do business with the small guy. Even in the past 100 years, there have been dramatic shifts from conservative values to speculation to heavy regulation and on and on like the pendulum of a clock.

The best we can hope for is that more individuals like Merrill and Giannini continue to challenge and improve the system that we depend on so much.
Of all the taxes that come out of your paycheck, none may be as inescapable as those that go to Social Security. Whether you're salaried or self-employed, you must generally contribute throughout your entire working life. There are, however, a few exceptions, which we'll cover here.

Key Takeaways Most American workers have to pay Social Security taxes for as long as they're working.

Social Security taxes are collected as part of FICA, which also includes Medicare taxes.

The income threshold for Social Security and Medicare taxes is adjusted annually for inflation.



There are a few exceptions, including members of certain religious groups and some types of nonresident aliens.

Federal employees hired before 1984 may also be exempt because they pay into a separate retirement system.

Basics of Social Security Withholding

If you work for an employer, your paycheck will likely show an amount withheld for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). FICA includes both Social Security and Medicare, the federal health insurance program for Americans 65 and over.

As of 2022, your wages up to $147,000 ($160,200 for 2023) are taxed at 6.2% for Social Security, and your wages with no limit are taxed at 1.45% for Medicare. Your employer matches those amounts and sends the total to the government.

If you work for yourself, you have to pay both halves because you are, in effect, both the employee and the employer. This is known as the Self-Employed Contributions Act (SECA) tax.

Who Doesn't Have to Pay Social Security?

High Earners

As mentioned above, workers making the big bucks pay for only a portion of their income. After their income hits a certain level, their Social Security withholding stops for the year. Officially known as the wage base limit, the threshold changes every year.

The 2022 wage limit for paying FICA taxes is $147,000, versus the $160,200 limit in 2023. This limit is adjusted annually for inflation.

Members of Some Religious Groups

Some workers are exempt from paying Social Security taxes if they, their employer, and the sect, order, or organization they belong to officially decline to accept Social Security benefits for retirement, disability, death, or medical care. To receive the exemption, members of such groups must apply using IRS Form 4029. A number of restrictions apply, including:

The group must have been in existence since 1950.

The group must have provided its members with a realistic standard of living since that time.

Certain Foreign Visitors

Although nonresident aliens employed in the U.S. normally pay Social Security tax on any income they earn here, there are some exceptions. Mostly, these apply to foreign government employees, students, and educators living and working in the country on a temporary basis and possessing the correct type of visa. In some cases, their families and domestic workers can also be exempt.

Some American College Students

American college and university students who work part-time at their schools may also qualify for an exemption from Social Security tax. The job must be contingent on the students full-time enrollment at the college or university or half-time status if in the last semester or trimester.

"Students who are employed by a school, college, or university where the student is pursuing a course of study are exempt from paying FICA taxes as long as their relationship with the school, college, or university is student, meaning education is predominantly the relationship, not employment," says Alina Parizianu, CFP, MBA, who is a financial planning specialist for MMBPB Financial Services in New York.

Income beyond a certain level ($147,000 in 2022 and $160,200 in 2023) isn't subject to Social Security tax, but Medicare tax applies to all income.

Pre-1984 Federal Employees

Civilian employees of the federal government who started their jobs prior to 1984 are covered under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), while those who were hired in 1984 or later are part of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Workers covered by the CSRS are not required to pay Social Security taxes, nor will they receive Social Security benefits. However, those covered by the FERS are part of the Social Security system and contribute to it at the current tax rate.

Certain State and Local Government Workers

State or local government employees, including those working for a public school system, college, or university, may or may not pay Social Security taxes. If they're covered by both a pension plan and Social Security, then they must make Social Security contributions. But if they're covered solely by a pension plan, then they dont have to contribute to the Social Security system.

The Bottom Line

So, when do you stop paying Social Security tax? As long as you're employed, the answer is almost always "never." But there are exceptions to every rule, and if one of those discussed above seems to apply to you, be sure to check it out.
Title and code Available versions Daily Journal 14 October 2017 [English] [French] 15 October 2017 [English] [French] 16 October 2017 [English] [French] 17 October 2017 [English] [French] 18 October 2017 [English] [French] Assembly Summary records of the proceedings of the 134th IPU Assembly [English] [French] Complete electronic version of the brochure "Results of the 137th IPU Assembly and related meetings" [English] [French] List of speakers in the general debate (no.4) [Bilingual] Texts of speeches delivered in the General Debate [Bilingual] Complete text of the Convocation of the 137th IPU Assembly, together with its annexes

A/137/C.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Concept note for the General Debate on "Promoting cultural pluralism and peace through inter-faith and inter-ethnic Dialogue"

A/137/3-Inf.1 (30 June 2017) [English] [French] Inaugural speech by H.E. Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation [English] Inaugural speech by Ms. Valentina Matvienko, Chairperson of the Council of the Federation, Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation [English] [French] Inaugural speech by Mr. Saber Chowdhury, President of the IPU [English] [French] Resolution on Sharing our diversity: The 20th anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Democracy [English] [French] Emergency item on Ending the grave human crisis, persecution and violent attacks on the Rohingya as a threat to international peace and security and ensuring their unconditional and safe return to their homeland in Myanmar (St. Petersburg 17 October 2017) [English] [French] St. Petersburg Declaration on Promoting cultural pluralism and peace through interfaith and inter-ethnic dialogue [English] [French] Final list of participants [Bilingual] Governing Council Presidential statement on the state of democracy in the world today [English] [French] Council decisions on human rights cases [English] [French] Convocation of the 201th Session of the Governing Council

CL/201/C.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Election of the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union [English] [French] Election of the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union : Candidature of Ms. Gabriela Cuevas Barron (Mexico) [English] [French] Election of the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union : Candidature of Ms. Ivonne Passada (Uruguay) [English] [French] Reporting exercise 2017 [English] [French]

[English] [French] Interim Report by the Secretary General on the activities of the IPU since the 200th session of the Governing Council - Annual reporting exercise by Members

CL/201/5(b)-R.1 (10 September 2017) [English] [French] 2018 consolidated budget [English] [French] Report of the President of the IPU on his activities since the 200th session of the Governing Council

CL/201/4(a)-R.1-rev (11 October 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Regional meeting of Young Parliamentarians of the Asia-Pacific on the role of young parliamentarians in advancing inclusive and peaceful societies and preventing violent extremism - Colombo (Sri Lanka), 25  26 April 2017

CL/201/10(a)-R.1 (27 July 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Regional Seminar on Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals for the Parliaments in the Asia-Pacific Region on Responding to climate change: Actions of legislators to achieve the SDGs - Ho Chi Minh City (Viet Nam), 11 - 13 May 2017

CL/201/10(b)-R.1 (12 July 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Parliamentary meeting at the 70th World Health Assembly - Geneva (Switzerland), 29 May 2017

CL/201/10(c)-R.1 (19 July 2017) [English] [French] Regional Conference on violence against women and girls for Central and Eastern Europe on Making laws work to end violence against women and girls- Bucharest (Romania), 12-14 June 2017

CL/201/10(d)-R.1 (10 August 2017) [English] [French] Regional seminar on Promoting child nutrition in Western and Central Africa- Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), 27-29 June 2017

CL/201/10(e)-R.1 (11 August 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Second Roundtable on Water: From words to actions - IPU Headquarters (Geneva), 6  7 July 2017

CL/201/10(f)-R.1 (13 September 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Parliamentary meeting at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development - New York, 17 July 2017

CL/201/10(g)-R.1 (27 July 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Second Interregional seminar on parliamentary capacity-building and the further implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals - Beijing, 5  7 September 2017

CL/201/10(h)-R.1 (21 September 2017) [English] [French] Reports on recent IPU specialized meetings: Regional Conference of Young Parliamentarians of Africa on Empowering youth: Enhancing political participation for more inclusive and peaceful societies - Abuja (Nigeria), 2728 September 2017

CL/201/10(i)-R.1 (12 October 2017) [English] [French] Standing Committee on Peace and International Security Revised draft agenda

C-I/137/A.1.rev (19 September 2017) [English] [French] Concept note : Interactive session on The UN process for the prohibition of nuclear weapons: What hope for nuclear disarmament? [English] [French] Concept note : Panel discussion on The implementation of a previous resolution on cyber warfare (Hanoi, 2015) [English] [French] Concept note : Panel discussion on The role of parliament in monitoring the action of national armed forces participating in UN peacekeeping operations [English] [French] Concept note : Hearing: Sustaining peace as a vehicle for achieving sustainable development [English] [French] Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, Finance and Trade Draft agenda

C-II/137/A.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Debate on Engaging the private sector in implementing the SDGs, especially on renewable energy [English] [French] Panel discussion : Using science and research to achieve the highest health standards [English] [French] Preliminary draft outcome document of the Parliamentary Meeting at COP 23 in Bonn [English] [French] Briefing on The Parliamentary contribution to the 2017 UN Climate Change Conference [English] [French] Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights Draft agenda

C-III/137/A.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Explanatory memorandum prepared by the co-Rapporteurs [English] [French] Draft resolution prepared by the co-Rapporteurs [English] [French]

[English] [French] Amendments to the draft resolution

C-III/137/DR-am (6 October 2017) [English] [French] Draft resolution submitted by the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human rights

(C-III/137/DR-cr  16 October 2017) [English] [French] Addendum to the resolution prepared by the Advisory Group on HIV/AIDS and Maternal, Newborn and Child Health [English] [French] Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs Draft agenda

C-IV/137/A.1.rev (13 September 2017) [English] [French] Concept note : Interactive session on The UN process for the prohibition of nuclear weapons: What hope for nuclear disarmament? [English] [French] Forum of Women Parliamentarians Convocation of the 26th Forum of Women Parliamentarians

FEM/26/C.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Documents of the 26th Meeting of Women Parliamentarians [English] [French] Draft Agenda of the 26th session of the Forum of Women Parliamentarians

FEM/26/A.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Forum of Young Parliamentarians of the IPU Agenda

FYP/137/A.1 (14 June 2017) [English] [French] Other events Open Session of the Committee to Promote Respect for International Humanitarian Law on Forty years since the adoption of the Additional Protocol to the Geneva Conventions: How does the law still protect in contemporary war? [English] [French] Parity debate: Holding the purse strings: Exercising oversight for the common good [English] [French] Ending AIDS through improving sexual and reproductive health: the need for urgent parliamentary action [English] [French] e-Parliament interactive session on The digital tools that parliamentarians use to do their work [English] [French] Interactive session - Key findings from the 2017 Global Parliamentary Report on oversight [English] [French] Miscellaneous documents Assembly App User manual [English] [French] Assembly Guidebook [English] [French] Final list of participants [English/French] Vacancies to be filled during the 137th Assembly

A/137/Inf.1.rev.1 (4 October 2017) [English] [French]
The body of a man has been recovered from the sea in Co Clare this afternoon while a report of a second body in the water proved to be a false alarm.

The first alarm was raised at around 2pm following reports that a person had fallen from the Cliffs of Moher. Gardai and the Irish Coast Guard responded to the scene as part of the search and rescue operation.
An Algerian man who was recently arrested by Gardai on suspicion of being involved in terrorism is set to be deported after a he lost a case aimed at preventing his removal from the State, writes Ann O'Loughlin.

The man who has been living in Ireland since 2012, and cannot be named for legal reasons, had in the High Court brought a legal challenge to a deportation order issued by the Minister for Justice in April.

He claimed he would be tortured and subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment if returned to Algeria due to his "imputed political opinion."

This evening Ms Justice Miriam O'Regan dismissed the man's claims and cleared the way for the authorities to deport him.

The man had sought permission to challenge the refusal by the Minister for Justice to allow him remain in Ireland until his application to re-enter the asylum process had been determined.

He also applied for an injunction preventing his removal until that application had been determined.

In her ruling Ms Justice O'Regan said she was quite satisfied to dismiss the action after hearing evidence from a Detective Garda with the Garda Bureau of National Immigration the man has travelled over and back to Algeria since arriving in Ireland.

Detective Garda David Kennedy told the court the man admitted in an interview with Gardai he spent the entire of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in 2016 in Algeria.

The man went to Algeria via Barcelona before returning to Ireland through Paris. The court was also presented with the man's passport.

The Judge said the man's application was "entirely abusive" and she was quite satisfied the man had "no fear whatsoever of being returned to Algeria."

The Judge said that not only was the man's application an abuse of the system but was also damaging and unfair to "genuine asylum seekers".

The Judge was told the man was scheduled to be put on a flight due to leave Dublin at 7am on Tuesday morning.

In separate proceedings brought almost two weeks ago, the High Court refused to grant him permission to challenge the Minister's refusal to revoke the deportation order.

The man secured a temporary injunction preventing his deportation until the matter came before the Court of Appeal.

However he did not progress his appeal and instead opted to bring new proceedings aimed at preventing his deportation.

The High Court had previously heard the man, who was tried and acquitted of a terrorist offence in Algeria in 2009 was arrested and detained by the Gardai in Dublin some weeks ago before being released.

The man denies having any "connection or interest in terrorist activities" and says he is a "peace loving person."

In a sworn statement the man said because he was tried for terrorism offences in Algeria coupled with the fact he was arrested in Ireland would draw him to the attention of the Algerian authorities.

He claimed he would be "in grave danger" if returned to Algeria.

If deported he claimed he would most likely on arrival "be taken into custody and mistreated" in one of "the notorious places of detention".

He applied for asylum shortly after his arrival in Ireland. His application was based on his claim that he had worked for an Algerian charity, whose head supported al-Qaeda in Algeria.

Arising out of his former employer's activities the man says he was arrested, detained and tortured by the Algerian authorities.

His application for asylum was refused in 2013. He then made an application for subsidiary protection, which was deemed withdrawn after he failed to attend an interview with the authorities.

The man was married to an EU citizen which was found to be a sham. The State then revoked residency rights he acquired as a result of the marriage.
A man who falsely imprisoned, tied up and raped a woman in a hotel meeting room during a Dublin gaming convention has been jailed for 12 years.

Keith Hearne (aged 28) rugby tackled Dominique Meehan to the ground after cornering her in a meeting room at the ArcadeCon convention before telling her: I could break your neck here and now, would you prefer that?

He then bound her hands behind her back with his tie, stripped her and raped her. When she screamed he told her he had a knife in his bag and would use it if she wasn't quiet.

Handing down the 12-year sentence today at the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said it was difficult to express the horror and seriousness of the offence.

He said Hearne carried out a series of extremely violent sexual offences in circumstances which consisted of her false imprisonment over a period of time.

This is an offence of the utmost seriousness for this class of offence, he said. The judge said Hearne's only mitigating factor was his plea of guilty. And he noted that Hearne was caught during the act, which he said further reduced the mitigating factor.

Applause rang out in court after the sentence was handed down. Hearne gave no reaction to the sentence.

Hearne of Allenton Drive, Tallaght, Dublin pleaded guilty to two counts of rape, one count of oral rape and one count of falsely imprisoning Ms Meehan at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Blanchardstown on July 4, 2015. He was taken into custody last April ahead of sentencing.

His bag containing a prop knife, handcuffs, condoms, a mask and sadomasochistic items was later found at the scene.

Ms Meehan (aged 25) said she wished to waive her right to anonymity in order to help more people come forward about sexual abuse.

Speaking outside court she said she was ecstatic at the sentence, even though she felt it was too light. This is what the gaming community needed to prove that this man was as evil as he is, she said, adding she would not be able to attend a gaming conference for a very long time.

People still aren't taking it seriously. They're still allowing their staff to go on their own, and while it wasn't ArcadeCon's fault that I was on my own, we have to learn from this. If conventions don't learn from this then it's going to happen again.

Nothing in her life was the same since she was raped, she added. I have to treat every day like someone is going to rape me. I am constantly on alert.

Defence barrister Michael Bowman SC previously told the court that Hearne had mental health issues and suffered from a bipolar disorder. He had not taken his medication for some time around the time of the attack.

But Mr Justice McCarthy found he was of sound mind when he carried out the offence. He said his culpability was not diminished in any way, notwithstanding his mental health difficulties.

The judge also noted that since the attack Hearne had failed to take his medication for periods of time. He ordered that Hearne remain under post-release supervision for five years.

Garda Lisa Lawler previously told prosecuting counsel, Shane Costelloe SC, that Ms Meehan was volunteering at the gaming convention in the hotel on the day in question.

She was preparing a presentation in a meeting room when Hearne entered the room and sat at the back. Ms Meehan became uneasy and moved to leave the room but Hearne locked the door and rugby tackled her to the ground, the court heard.

He then raped and sexually assaulted her viciously, causing her intense pain the court heard. During the attack, he struck her and grabbed her by the back of the head. She also suffered injuries from the initial fall.

The attack came to an end when another conference worker heard her screams and entered the room. Gardai were called and Hearne was arrested at the scene.

He told gardai he had gone to the convention in the hopes of getting with another woman. When that woman rejected him he said he had anger flowing through him and he then entered the meeting room and attacked Ms Meehan.

In her victim impact statement, Ms Meehan described how she woke up every night crying for months after the attack, thinking he had come back to finish the job.

Before this, I wouldn't call myself an angry person, she said. But now I punch walls, scream and walk out on conversations. I don't know what to do with this anger.

She described how she has struggled with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder since she was raped. People see me smiling and laughing. They don't see me curled up under a blanket on my sofa, she said.

Ms Meehan described how she has had numerous piercings and tattoos since the attack just so I can feel like my body is my own and not something he touched.

He may go to prison, but I'm already there because of what he did, she said.

Mr Bowman said his client engaged in absolute opportunism and exploitation of his victim and that there was no excuse for what he did. It was an unspeakable intrusion and violation of her person, he added.

However, he submitted Hearne has no previous convictions and suffers from a range of conditions, including Aspergers Syndrome, ADHD, dyslexia and bi-polar disorder.

He is now back on his medication and is remorseful in the extreme, Mr Bowman said.
Suspected jihadists in Mali's capital have attacked a resort that is popular with foreigners on the weekends, a security official says.

The official with the UN mission known as MINUSMA, said people had been killed and wounded but gave no immediate toll.

There also were believed to be hostages in the luxury Campement de Kangaba resort area.

Officials from the French military mission in Mali, the European Union and the UN also were there this weekend, he added.

Sunday's violence came about a week after the US State Department warned of "possible future attacks on Western diplomatic missions, other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent".

"I heard gunfire coming from the camp and I saw people running out of the tourist site," said Modibo Diarra, who lives nearby.

"I learned that it was a terrorist attack."

Malian soldiers succeeded in entering the site, according to Commandant Modibo Traore, a spokesman for the Malian special forces in the former French colony.

"The operation is ongoing and we estimate that there are between three and four assailants," he said.

The French president's office, the defence minister's office and the French military would not comment immediately on the attack or on media reports saying that French forces are intervening.

The French Foreign Ministry would not say whether any French citizens were hurt or otherwise involved in the attack in the West African country.

French military spokesman Col Patrik Steiger said he had "strictly no information" about French military involvement in the incident in Bamako.

He said there are no French troops based in Bamako, but about 2,000 French troops based in northern Mali fighting Islamic extremists.

France intervened in Mali in 2013 to oust Islamic extremists who had seized control of the major northern towns the year before.

While the militants were officially ousted, they have continued to launch regular attacks on UN peacekeeping and Malian military sites.

Religious extremism in Mali once was limited to northern areas, although in recent years the jihadists have spread violence farther south, including a devastating attack on the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in November 2015.

That attack left 20 dead - six Malians and 14 foreigners.

AP
Built around high-tech facilities and consigning the outdated 9 to 5 mentality to history, these new work places springing up in urban centres promote themselves as collegial spaces letting users work how they want and when they want.

Flexible places, operating alternatively as offices and social spaces, they cater for anything from a simple half days use of a desk complete with laptop and wifi, to a meeting room and social scene populated by everyone from tech entrepreneurs and fashion designers to the local journalist in search of a more creative environment without restrictive closing times.

An evolution of the coffee shop culture of the 1990s, where freelancers congregated to work and commune with like-minded souls, co-working provides a more efficient environment, complete with reliable wi-fi and multiple networking possibilities. Like the advent of software-as-a-service before it, the office-as-a-service movement has become a significant aspect of the modern commercial property market, especially in dense urban locations where higher costs are driving a more efficient approach to real estate assets.

The Dublin Business Innovation Centre recently opened Space@DublinBIC, offering dedicated desks for 375 a month, a hot desk for 200 a month or a five-day pass for 59. Amongst its facilities are 1Gb wi-fi, an on-site cafe, storage facilities and meeting rooms.

By choosing to locate in Space, start-ups will not only benefit from being immersed in a hub of entrepreneurship, but they will also be surrounded by the supports they need to ensure their company is a success, said Michael Culligan, chief executive of Dublin BIC. Reflecting the demand for office space in Dublin city centre, 20 private offices have already been pre-sold to companies. In a city in which only 3% of office space is vacant and prices reaching record highs again, entrepreneurs and freelancers are finding themselves unable to access office space from which they can hire talent, scale and access customers easily. With the city centre being increasingly dominated by bigger corporates, it is important that we work hard to ensure there is a healthy ecosystem of business  large and small, established and early-stage, Mr Culligan said.

London headquartered Huckletree is another growing co-working enterprise which has also just opened a shared space in the capital. Co-founded by Dubliner Andrew Lynch, the companys hub on Pearse Street will accommodate up to 400 workers in a 30,000sq ft space offering dedicated and shared desks, fast wi-fi and meeting facilities.

Our goal is to create an epicentre for entrepreneurial talent in the heart of Dublin, said Mr Lynch. We see it as an under-served city for co-working. Many of these spaces, having built up a strong community of like-minded co-workers, are in need of greater capacity to meet demand. These spaces are growing because they have earned a reputation as a community that people want to be a part of. It puts you side-by-side with inspirational co-workers and aligns you with partners to grow your business. We spend so much of our time at work, and now were realising that we actually get to choose who we spend that time with, and where.

Following the turbulence of the global marketplace over the past decade, the growth of co-working spaces reflects, in part, the migration away from traditional corporate cultures toward more agile and independent careers in entrepreneurship and remote working. After the fallout from the global financial meltdown begun in 2007 many workers made suddenly unemployed found themselves banding together in early versions of these spaces, driven by the essentials of good coffee and high-speed wi-fi. Today, these contingent workers account for a steadily growing sector of the workforce.
Mere days in office, Leo Vardakar is already engaged in fire fighting. He may, this weekend, be reflecting ruefully on his governments handling of the judicial appointment of long-serving Attorney General Maire Whelan.

But he needs, above all, to keep an eye on the bigger prize, for he has been elected to preside over a fundamental overhaul of governance and not to run around flapping frantically, like a walker who has just disturbed a nest of wasps.

What, then, is the biggest priority in economic management terms facing this new administration?

The answer to this question can be found on the traffic-clogged M-50 and in a field just offloaded by RTE at a figure close to one half greater than the guide price.

The root cause of our current traffic congestion and surging housing costs is in our recent history of spectacular public capital under-investment.

According to employer group Ibec, we have, in effect, been eating into our capital stock in recent years.

In London, last week, the tragic effects of neglect and short-term thinking, when it comes to the maintenance of housing stock, have been there for all to witness.

We cant be sure that we will not be visited by a similar event. So, why have we  as a society  stood by as investment has been put off? The reasons for this are clear.

We have just gone through a long fiscal emergency, during which the emphasis was on the short-term, on simple survival. This goal has been achieved in large part. Our national debt is approaching world norms and all going to plan, the country will run a primary budget surplus of more than 12.5bn between now and 2021.

We may be back in the money, to a degree, but our ability to achieve our potential as a nation could be stymied without the necessary infrastructure to underpin recovery. Already, growth in the capital city is being held back by infrastructural deficits.

As ever, the politicians have given priority to current spending. Various insistent groups must be bought off. Many households are still struggling. The voters prioritise tax cuts and greater social transfers, not to mention spending on education and health, over projects that could take decades to yield a return.

Rigid European rules have not helped in this regard. In a recent submission to the mid-term review of the Government capital plan, Ibec has argued with force that the country must spend on public projects an additional 5bn a year over that already planned so as to reach an internationally acceptable level of 4% of GNP.

Remember that the Government, itself has, since completion of the 2015 capital plan, raised the planned spend from 1.6% to 2.5% of GNP.

Questions do have to be asked whether our construction sector is equipped to handle such a big increase in activity.

Already, we are experiencing shortages in skilled tradespeople while the sector has been left with a shortage of machinery following a huge firesale of equipment during the crash.

We need to train up people, encourage returned migration and attract people from overseas, some on short-term contracts. The concern is that such an upsurge in public investment activity could raise costs and displace badly-needed activity across the rest of the building trade.

Presiding over a successful ramping up in investment in physical infrastructure, following a long fallow period, is no easy matter.

Many of the managers active during previous phases of high activity will have retired or departed otherwise from the scene.

There will have occurred considerable loss of corporate memory and project management expertise. The concern is that we may be doomed to repeat some of the mistakes of the Celtic Tiger period, with damaging cost overruns and poor completion outcomes a real possibility.

Consideration has to be given to the financing of such activity. Historically low interest rates have shifted the calculus in the direction of investment.

As Ibec has pointed out, Brussels must be persuaded of the need to adopt a much more flexible approach to growth-promoting expenditure.

Mechanisms such as public-private finance and bond issues should be availed of, but only after careful consideration.

The involvement of overseas management expertise, financial and operational, in the capital expenditure ramping up may not simply be desirable, but also necessary.

The Government must not simply think in terms of bridges, roads, schools, hospitals and homes.

Last month, the ESRI published an interesting paper on the impact of investment in knowledge-based capital on productivity growth  produced by three academics, including Martina Lawless.

This form of investment is viewed as increasingly critical to the success of a modern economy and is on the rise. According to the authors, a 10% rise in investment in knowledge capital is associated with a 2% rise in productivity.

The effect on Irish firms is viewed as being higher still  with a boost of over 3.5% in prospect.

Gains in areas such as research and the development of intangible assets such as company brands are promised.

To secure this, the right human talent must be in place and its availability, in turn, depends on the availability of affordable accommodation and childcare, all of which requires the sort of investment already mentioned.

Leo Vardadkars statement on the day of his appointment had a practical ring about it, with echoes of his lauded predecessor Sean Lemass.

Fifty years on from that era, we could certainly do with a similar sort of sleeves rolled-up approach at the heart of Government.
Midleton-based Independent, Cllr Noel Collins, says he wrote to the minister on foot of appeals from very many businesses still struggling financially with the fall-out from the storms and floods that devastated east Cork in recent times.

Cllr Collins says the rates system remains undemocratic, outdated, and possibly unconstitutional. He wants the proposed legislation introduced sooner rather than later, with ratings on business properties revised and a waiver system included.
On her Facebook page, First Deputy Chairwoman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Iryna Herashchenko strictly criticized the position of European countries who had expressed their concerns about new anti-Russian sanctions that the US Senate voted in favor of on June 14.http://i.imgur.com/5PPBuUW.jpg[/IMG[I]Translation.The vast majority of the US Senators (97 out of 100) have proved to be true friends, and I dare say, protectors of Ukraine. They have made a momentous decision to impose sanctions on Russian banks, oil and gas sector, and most importantly on specific individuals who push forward plans to construct pipelines bypassing Ukraine! Certainly, it is a great day for all of us. But unfortunately, it couldn't have gone without one bad apple spoiling the whole barrel...The reaction of foreign ministers of Germany and Austria can only be described as disgraceful. Their joint statement runs counter to all principles of European solidarity. They named the US actions as a threat to European companies that 'impacts European-American relations in a new and very negative way'. Though the statement by these ministers could possibly be taken as their individual opinion, the French Foreign Ministry's position looks like an insult to Euro-Atlantic ideals and principles of mutual cooperation between civilized countries. Over the past few years Ukraine has been in direct confrontation with Russia, and that has enabled the country to evolve into the main defender of common European values which, according to Germany, Austria and France, are less important for them than their own economic interests.It is also outrageous that the EU requires Ukraine to implement the Minsk agreements, as well as, to carry out painful reforms. But at the same time, leading European countries show the white feather, resisting the US attempt to strike another blow to Mordor's (Russia's) ego.Ukraine, however, continues to hope that it will succeed in convincing Europe not to harm initiatives of its democratic partners and to get over and done with imaginary fears of extending anti-Russian sanctions.[/I]This member of the Ukrainian parliament believes that the reaction of foreign ministers of Germany, Austria and France to it is a disgrace for them. She also accused them of cowardice, greed and neglect of Euro-Atlantic values. On the contrary, Mrs. Herashchenko named Ukraine 'the main defender of European values'. She also expressed hope that Kiev could convince Europe to sacrifice its economic interests and support the sanctions on Russian banks, oil and gas sector as well.[/QUOTE]I still firmly believe that Ukraine owns Crimea lock, stock and barrel.
Some might say it was Love, Actually.

He was finally behind that famous black door where Michael Collins signed the Anglo-Irish Treaty; where key decisions were made about the ending of an empire, and from where the British government directed two world wars.
Danny OKeeffe, conservation ranger with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, said the operation was still at phase one  mapping the extent of the area where the animals live.

Based on reported sightings, weve worked out what we believe is the range of the animal but theres a lot of surveillance work to be carried out to identify where theyre most likely to be, he said. Theres cameras to be set up and then theres baiting and trapping.
Foxes are a direct threat to lambs, according to the council motion, and their numbers are best controlled at night.

The council will have to vigorously oppose any ban on night-time shooting. The fox population will increase dramatically, to the detriment of sheep farmers, who have enormous difficulty protecting young and new-born lambs, said Fianna Fail councillor Michael Cahill.

If this proposal is implemented it will also have huge repercussions for those involved in poultry  chickens, ducks, turkeys, and other fowl  as up to 90% of foxes are killed at night.

The Department of Justice has said that following concerns in what is a complex area, guidelines produced before a firearms committee in April are to be amended and the matter is now in the hands of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Safety and security concerns were raised in Kerry earlier this year amid reports that individuals arriving in farm yards on winter nights were not in fact looking for rabbits or foxes, but casing rural houses and using the time-honoured rural activity as an excuse.

Gardai in Listowel and Tralee warned they want to clamp down on lamping rabbits and issued an appeal to the public, particularly elderly people in rural areas, to report incidents.

A meeting took place in Tralee between senior gardai, farmers concerned at interference with fencing and livestock, and hare coursing representatives.

Proposals drawn up by a working group set up by the Department of Justice and Equality Firearms Consultative Panel included not shooting between 12am and 6am from September to the end of March, but farmers groups and shooting organisations opposed the idea.
Ted ODonoghue, aged 72, of Killmoreen, Kildimo, Co Limerick, appeared before a special sitting of Limerick District Court charged with assault causing harm to John Hayes, 65, at farmlands at Ballycasey, Kildimo, on Friday.

Despite strenuous Garda objections to bail, Judge Marie Keane remanded Mr ODonoghue in custody with consent to bail on a number of very strict conditions.

During the bail hearing, Garda Jason Mitchell of Newcastle West Garda Station said the accused allegedly fired a shot from a single-barrel shotgun at Mr Hayes, wounding him in the right shoulder.

He told Judge Keane the serious incident was linked to a dispute over a right-of-way.

Garda Mitchell alleged gardai had been called to lands at Ballycasey on five occasions since June 2014, and that the shooting last Friday, was the latest in an ongoing long-running feud over a right of way.

Further more serious charges are anticipated, Garda Mitchell added.

The court heard the right of way is on Mr ODonoghues land, but three other landowners, including the injured party, have to access it to get to their lands.

There is no other access, Garda Mitchell said.

Objecting to bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, and under OCallaghan Rules, gardai said they feared Mr ODonoghue would interfere with witnesses.

Garda Mitchell said he arrested Mr ODonoghue at 1.10pm last Friday at Barnakyle, Patrickswell.

He said the accused made no reply when charged at 10.15pm on Friday.

Remanding Mr ODonoghue on bail, Judge Keane ordered that 3,000 of an independent cash surety of 5,000 be lodged.

The accused agreed to strict bail conditions, including that he stay away from his farmland at Ballycasey.

He also agreed to hand over the management of the farm to his brother William; to sign on daily at Newcastle West Garda Station; obey a 10p to 8am curfew; and be available to gardai at all times.

He also agreed not to contact Mr Hayes nor any other witnesses nor adjoining landowners at Ballycasey.

If you see your neighbours, you blank them; you dont even look at them, the judge told the accused.
Figures provided by the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) show 4,425 people, including 708 families, were living in the States 33 direct provision centres around the country at the end of 2016  271 fewer than in 2015.

However, the cost of accommodating asylum seekers last year still rose by 12.4% to almost 64.2m.

According to the RIA the number of new asylum seekers accommodated in direct provision centres dropped significantly, down from 2,828 in 2015 to 1,748 last year  a decrease of 38%.

Around 500 refugees who arrived in Ireland in 2016 did not apply for accommodation, while approximately 1,700 moved out of the centres. More than 57,480 have now been housed in direct provision centres since the system was established in 1999.

Eugene Banks, a RIA spokesperson, said the commencement last December of the International Protection Act, which allows for a single application procedure, would significantly speed up decisions on asylum and by extension reduce the length of time spent in direct provision accommodation.

Mr Banks said the RIA had also begun implementing a key recommendation of the McMahon Report, which reviewed the operation of direct provision centres by providing arrangements for home cooking for families.

He said work had also started on structural changes and improvements to centres with regard to fire safety, building regulation, and planning issues.

Pakistan remained the country of origin for the biggest number of new asylum seekers in Ireland last year, followed by Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Albania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The oldest operational lighthouse in the world had its busiest year yet in 2016, with year-on-year growth of 10% and more than 250,000 visitors. August alone accounted for 38,617 of those.

Now, management of the Co Wexford facility aim to alleviate queues with advance booking of guided tours via hookheritage.ie.
Ibec, which made the call, suggested the funding should come from the EU and the Government.

It said the resources required will be in the region of 5% of the value of current indigenous annual export sales to the UK and that up to 400m may be needed annually in a worst-case scenario.

The employers body says the money would be to help firms innovate, diversify into new markets, train staff, and invest for the future.

It recognises that, given the size of our export/import relationship with Britain, under its proposal the supports Ireland would get from the EU would be greater than other states.

However, Fergal OBrien, Ibecs director of policy, said: The situation is not of our making and we should not be economically challenged as a result of it.

Ibec will today launch what it describes as a comprehensive set of proposals to progress EU-UK negotiations and limit the negative impact of Brexit.

It says the approach to the negotiations should, amongst other things, target a smooth exit, comprehensive transitional arrangements, the closest possible future relationship, and the unique Irish challenges.

It believes the recent election in Britain has opened up possibilities, not least a greater chance that it will remain in the customs union.

An early focus on avoiding a hard border with Northern Ireland is vital, but the Irish approach must also be informed by the greater economic importance of the east-west Irish-British trading relationship, said Ibec.

Across both trade and investments, the outcome of negotiations must not disadvantage Ireland.

As well as the state aid measures, Ibec makes recommendations around trade; customs; the single market and regulation; and the common travel area and the all-island economy.

An agreement on trade and customs on the island of Ireland should be framed in the first phase of talks. The UK and EU should also agree a common transit system early in the negotiations.

Ibec pointed out that there are certain sectors of the economy here which are particularly exposed by Brexit. While roughly 14% of goods and 20% of services exports go to the UK, that proportion is much higher for specific sectors of the economy.

It pointed out that, in the agri-food sector, over 4.3bn annually is spent on purchases from primary producers. A further 2.1bn is spent on compensation of employees in the sector who primarily live in rural areas.

READ MORE: Ibec warns of cliff-edge scenario for Ireland
Chief Gary Batton told of the similarities between the two people as a special feather sculpture was unveiled in Bailick Park, Midleton, Co Cork. The Kindred Spirits sculpture commemorates a donation made by the Choctaw people to Ireland during the great famine.

Chief Gary Batton said he became emotional when he saw the sculpture.

The people in Ireland know how to get a gathering together. It is hard for me to express what a great honour this is this tribute to our Choctaw ancestors. I cant tell you the feelings it gives to me to see it in person.

We know the story of the tragedy of all our people that we endured and over came. But we knew once we heard of the story of hardship of the Irish people we knew it was our time to step up and help out. We have endured  the Choctaw people and the people of Ireland.

Callie Armstrong, Lillie Roberts and Mandy Lawson, Choctaw Nation, Oklahoma, at the dedication of the Kindred Spirits monument to the Choctaw Nation, at Bailick Park, Midleton, Co Cork. Picture: Jim Coughlan

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Co Cork, Cllr Seamus McGrath said the Irish people were very grateful for the kindness of strangers during the great famine.

To think they heard about the hardship that the Irish people were enduring during the great famine and they made whatever effort they could to help out. It is an extraordinary story. It is only right that we in Cork would mark that and that there would be a tribute to that act of generosity.

Close to 20 representatives from the Choctaw Nation from Oklahoma attended the public ceremony. It included traditional Choctaw and Irish music and dancing, as well as activities around the sculpture and the story.

Kindred Spirits, by Cork based sculptor Alex Pentek, was commissioned in 2013 by the former Midleton Town Council to commemorate the time in 1847, when the kind people of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma heard of the suffering of the starving Irish. They responded, with greatness of spirit and generosity, by contributing a sum of $170 dollars (about $4,400 today), to send food aid to Ireland. This show of solidarity came despite the great hardships being faced by the Choctaw people themselves who were also living in conditions of starvation and poverty, and who had just a few years previous endured the Trail of Tears.

Cllr Seamus McGrath, Mayor of County Cork, and Gary Batton, Chief, Choctaw Nation. Picture: Jim Coughlan

The sculpture comprising of nine, majestic 20 foot eagle feathers reaching towards the sky in the East Cork town, arranged in a circular shape, represents a bowl filled with food, presented to those suffering hunger, metaphorically speaking.

This is not the first time the Choctaw Nation has been honoured in Ireland. In 1990, Choctaw leaders travelled to Mayo to take part in a re-enactment of an 1848 protest. The gesture was returned in 1992, when Irish leaders took part in a trek. Former President Mary Robinson also has been named an honorary Choctaw chief.
The department is determined that two or more institutes of technology (IoTs) must merge in order for technological university (TU) status, despite a stipulation in last years Programme for Government that an exception might be made to that requirement.

The delayed bill to underpin the creation of a TU sector should get back on track shortly after IoT lecturers last week backed an deal addressing their concerns.

One of the main problems had been Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) opposition to what it said would be the forcing of mergers when there is no guarantee that two or more IoTs which merged would actually be designated a TU.

Such a merger will only now happen on the same date as a TU comes into existence after an application is assessed and approved.

It will mean a change to the chronology of steps to TU status which were first set out by the Higher Education Authority in 2012, in response to the 2011 Hunt Report on the sector that introduced the plan to establish a TU sector.

This change to the merger requirement will now be incorporated into amendments to the proposed law, along with other aspects of the agreement between TUI, the department and the Technological Higher Education Association (THEA) which represents management of IoTs.

The Technological Universities Bill was published by the previous education minister Jan OSullivan in December 2015 but has not been progressed since Richard Bruton became education minister just over a year ago.

However, a clause in the May 2016 Programme for Government states: The requirement of a mandatory merger of existing institutions can be reviewed, if a case can be proven, that for geographical reasons, a merger isnt feasible.

It is understood to have been a concession to independent TD for Waterford John Halligan, a minister of state at the Department of Education for the past year, to ensure no hindrance to the ambitions of Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) to achieve TU status.

WIT withdrew from merger talks with Institute of Technology Carlow in October 2014 and, even after a number of interventions brought the sides back to the table, they are a long way from a final application.

The Irish Examiner asked the Department of Education how it intends to incorporate the Programme for Government stipulation into the legislation.

A spokesperson said the bill provides that applications for TU designation can only be made by merged IoTs.

The department is committed to the policy that the establishment of a technological university is only possible via an application by a consortium consisting of two or more institutes, she said.

This would appear to minimise the possibility of Mr Bruton reflecting the Programme for Government clause, allowing exemption from the merger requirement, in any amendments to the bill.

Mr Halligans position at the Department of Education is uncertain after last weeks Cabinet reshuffle, in which Taoiseach Leo Varadkars and Mr Brutons Fine Gael colleague Mary Mitchell OConnor was moved there as a minister of state.
IT COMES as no surprise that Diane Keaton credits strong, savvy women with helping make her who she is.

As one of the most iconic screen actresses of her generation, Keaton was encouraged by trailblazers like Katherine Hepburn before her  but there were great females to look up to at home, too.

Dianes real surname is Hall and her pet name is Annie  hence the title of her most-loved Woody Allen film. And she credits the Irish grandmother who she affectionately calls Grammie Hall with being a significant influence.

My name is Diane Hall and what happened was I had to change my name when I joined Actors Equity, which is our union, because there was a Diane Hall. So I picked my mothers maiden name, which was Keaton.

My dads mother, Mary Hall, her parents came from Ireland, she tells me. She was raised in Nebraska on a farm, they were Catholic, there were like 12 kids. Very Irish, and boy, was she a powerhouse. She was some woman. I was terrified of her when I was a kid! But when I got older I loved her sense of humour.

She was the kind of Catholic that I didnt understand. She never believed in heaven or hell, but she was a Catholic. I would say: Why? and she would say: Well, what else am I gonna be? Thats what I grew up with. I guess it was her social outlet, the Church.

Grammie Hall had just one son, Dianes father Jack, and while she endeavoured to find out more information about her grandfather, some mystery still remains.

She lived to be 94, Grammie Hall. As time went on, I grew to love her more and more, because she was one hell of a character. Unbelievable! Irish! There you go. And Ive never been, isnt that ridiculous?

A self-confessed fearful flyer, who travels when she needs to for work, Keaton has a stronger desire to visit this part of the world after spending time with our own Brendan Gleeson, her co-star in the forthcoming Hampstead.

The endearing romantic drama  based loosely on the real story of a man who lived in a shack in Londons Hampstead Heath and faced efforts to have him evicted  sees these two very different people form a friendship with the potential to become something more.

She was beguiled by the Dublin actor. First of all hes the kindest guy in the world. Second of all, hes got that booming voice  I mean, where did that come from? Ill never understand, says Keaton, with the sort of quirky candour that is reminiscent of her best-known characters.

Hes always engaged, hes always really present in the moment. He doesnt drift off. Hes got a big heart. Its just very unusual, a big heart with a big guy.

If youre having a problem day, hes there to empathise with the misery. I cant tell you man, I wish I could work with him all the time. I wish that was my good fortune.

The films director, Joel Hopkins, has credited his two leads very different styles with helping create their wonderful onscreen chemistry, and Keaton concurs.

When I look at Brendan I think: Thats an actor. When I look at me I think: Theres a personality-driven person, she observes. He is really an actor. Think of him in In Bruges, which is one of my favourite movies.

I started out early, and I did go to acting school, but really, what I learned in acting school was just to mainly be in the moment, and to take your behaviour off what youre getting from the other actor and be spontaneous.

That spontaneity has served her well and made Keaton (71) one of the most-loved stars of her generation. Her natural beauty, novel sense of style, ability to elicit empathy and perfect comic timing made hers a special partnership with Woody Allen, with whom she was very much in love (they remain close friends to this day).

It should be regarded as no coincidence that Keaton contributed to some of Allens very best films  the wacky Love and Death, Play It Again Sam and Sleeper, and of course the greatly loved Annie Hall (which won her an Oscar), and Manhattan.

Why does she think their collaboration was so successful? I have no idea. Id just auditioned for this play that he had written called Play it Again Sam, and I got an audition. Thats where I met him, she recalls. They brought him out because I think they were concerned that I might be a little too tall.

They cast me, and when I was in that play I really got to know him. When youre in a play, for eight or nine months, you get to know the people youre with. And of course I had a crush on him. I was just crazy about him.

Yet her career endured beyond her work with Allen. She shone as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather trilogy, excelled opposite Warren Beatty in the Oscar-winning Reds and went on to enjoy a successful career in thoughtful comedy dramas including Father of the Bride, The First Wives Club and Somethings Gotta Give.

You get the sense that she loves her work as much now as in the early days, and she is enthusiastic about bringing an older character to life in Hampstead.

For me the most wonderful part of this movie is that theyre these two people of a certain age. Then because of this big barrel of a man, her whole life opens up. And the same is true of him. Change is possible and we can all grow, no matter how old we are. I really liked that part of the movie. I really liked what its about.

She credits her late mother, Dorothy, with helping her believe such a career was possible. My mother, even though she never talked about it, I think she secretly wanted more than anything to be in the performing world. She could play the piano, and I believe that she encouraged me without saying anything. From early on I just wanted to be in front of people.

She never said anything, and she had four kids, but she was amazing. She wrote. I have eighty of her journals. She sang in a group. I think it was in her. She really did want that.

She didnt have the opportunities, but I did. I was the first born, I wanted to be in front of people, I wanted to express myself. And she was nothing but encouraging. She was my first assistant.
The Italian-based international defense company Leonardo is introducing a new, Fighter Attack (FA) variant of their M-346 trainer, dedicated to combat missions. The new variant will be shown this week at the Paris Air Show at Le Bourget. According to the manufacturer, the new fighter-attack version is an evolution of a family concept of the M-346 Master, designed to create a common baseline, able to adapt and meet different requirements of air forces. Several air forces have already expressed their interest in the new variant, Leonardo said.

The new M-346FA version comes in addition to the Advanced Jet Trainer, already operational with several air forces, and the multi-role M-346FT that can assume advanced training role with operational training units (OTU).

The M-346 Fighter Attack differs from the baseline M-346 in its avionic configuration. The aircraft will retain all seven pylons for external loads, which will include a wider ordnance and pod capabilities including air-to-surface, air-to-air and tactical reconnaissance systems. The aircraft will be equipped with a dedicated variant of the Grifo-346 multi-mode fire control radar, designed and manufactured by Leonardo. The Grifo is a mechanical scan, multi-mode radar that supports multiple operating modes for air-to-air and air-to-surface.

The antenna will be optimized for the aircraft and incorporate the radar emitters and IFF dipoles. The Grifo-346 will be able to track up to 10 targets simultaneously in Track-While-Scan (TWS) mode, will have a maximum range beyond 50 NM (92 km) in the Look-Up mode and a sub-metric resolution in the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) mode. The radar will feature seven Air-to-Air modes, six Air Combat modes, thirteen Air-to-Ground modes (including, for example, SAR, Inverse SAR, Ground Moving Target Indicator on SAR, Sea Moving Target Track) and three Navigation modes.

The company has already carried out the studies on the FAs radar installation and its mechanical integration with the aircraft. The Rafael RecceLite reconnaissance pod is already integrated on the M-346.

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A new report from Android Police suggests that Samsung may launch the Galaxy Note 8 smartphone at an event in New York during the third week of August.

Referring to a leak of an alleged screen protector of the device and recent rumours from South Korean news outlets, the report notes how Samsung is likely eager to launch the Galaxy Note 8 before Apple releases the latest iPhone as both devices may end up being very similar visually.
In the introduction to his organisations Brexit: challenges with solutions document, Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy opens with the comment: The departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union presents an unprecedented and profoundly unwelcome challenge to the Europe we know.

His organisation is genuinely fearful as to how so many of its member companies could suffer  and potentially perish  if the talks between British and EU officials which begin in Brussels this morning yield the wrong outcome for Ireland.

He concedes that a significant gap exists between Britains objectives and what is realistically possible within the parameters of the current EU negotiating guidelines.

The pitfalls of what could go wrong for Ireland, as Britains closest neighbour, as a result of Brexit have been well versed. Ibec does go into detail as to the impact on export and imports in particular.

However, its document also points to ways of addressing the headline issues.

The Ibec report aims to help shift the debate from political posturing to pragmatic solutions, but the way forward remains unclear, said Mr McCoy.

If the UK crashes out of Europe, Ireland will need all the policy levers available to respond. State aid will be needed to support companies through any period of adjustment, and tax and labour market policy will need to ensure Ireland remains internationally competitive. A post-Brexit EU must take full advantage of Europes collective strength and influence, but not limit the capacity of member states to respond quickly to external shocks.

A Brexit day trade cliff edge

Ibec believes that if the UK exits the customs union, a customs agreement between the EU and the UK must be in place on the day of exit.

If there is no agreement in place there will be no agreed procedure to land goods entering the EU from the UK or goods exported from the EU to the UK leading to major disruption and legal uncertainty at entry and exit ports, airports and along the land border.

The employers body says the UK should remain in the customs union to enable tariff-free trade to continue, but if it exits, business and governments should be given time to prepare.

It says customs requirements, etc, should be dealt with early in the Article 50 negotiations and it also says the UK should remain part of the European common transit system to ensure smooth transit of goods to, from and through the UK from the first day that the UK is no longer a member of the EU.

It also warns a cliff edge scenario in the absence of an EU-UK deal, whereby WTO tariffs would apply to EU-UK trade on the day that the UK exits, must be avoided.

Costly, disruptive EU-UK tariff barriers

A poor post-Brexit EU-UK trade deal could result in crippling tariff barriers on certain products and key, job intensive sectors of the economy could be particularly vulnerable if they are reliant on the market in Britain as an export destination and on the north as a source of raw material and processing location. Ibec wants a broad and comprehensive EU-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) involving minimal tariff and non-tariff barriers to goods being processed and goods going to market. It should also cover services.

If tariffs and tariff rate quotas are a feature in a new agreement, the tariff rate quota(s) volume, structure and definition must take into account existing trade flows and market requirements. Burdensome, costly customs procedures for companies.

Ibec says the movement of goods must not be unduly hampered by customs procedures. Simplified procedures must be sought within the bounds of the Union Customs Code to ensure the smooth flow of goods. Local clearance or pre-clearance procedures should be granted to sensitive sectors to facilitate management of their new customs obligations onsite, it said.

The EU and the UK must agree to recognise each others Trusted Trader status (or Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status in the EU framework) under exit and transitional arrangements to facilitate continuation of business operations.

It also says the imposition of import Vat on trade with Britain and Northern Ireland will impose very significant cash-flow costs on business in the Republic. To alleviate this, a mechanism should be made available to all Vat registered companies in Ireland, whereby import Vat from a third country (the UK) is paid and accounted for in a simultaneous transaction.

Lack of business expertise to manage new customs rules

According to Ibec, EU-backed training, logistical and financial supports will be needed for businesses to upskill and adjust their practices in light of the new EU-UK trading relationship.

Divergent food and agricultural standards

The EU has strict sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards and is a sealed zone for the production, sale and consumption of food and agricultural products, including plants, animal products and cereals Ibec said current SPS standards must be recognised and maintained by both parties on exit day and during the transition to an FTA.

Any new FTA must involve maximum collaboration on SPS standards and minimal divergence in the application of such standards into the future to ensure minimal disruption to trade and production, it said.

Negative impact on trade transit and facilitation Ibec warns that the smooth movement of goods may be impeded post-Brexit due to changes in transport and transit procedures and it says this will impact business directly and do harm to firms in Ireland, through the costs associated with transport, and indirectly through the potential time lost at borders.

Therefore it says the UK should remain a member of the European transit system and the associated guarantee waiver scheme should be extended as widely as possible to traders in Ireland.

Given the volume of trucks carrying goods by sea in and out of Ireland and the existing infrastructure challenge at Irish ports, every effort must be made to avoid unnecessary delays and stopping of vehicles. Customs procedures at ports in Britain, Northern Ireland, the Republic and on the Continent should be aligned to operate on a seamless basis to ensure the overall integrity of the system.

Capacity pressure on customs authorities

Britains departure from the EU customs union and becoming a third country will dramatically increase the workload on customs authorities raising significant issues around the capacity of customs officials in Ireland and the UK to manage the new relationship.

Ibec says that, to support inter-agency cooperation, a legal framework for future close customs collaboration between EU and UK authorities must be agreed early in negotiations.

The duplication of any customs procedures on both the EU and UK side must be avoided, it says.

The principles that have underpinned the simplification of customs procedures to facilitate trade and business should continue to be applied.
Its Refugee Week. This is the week when non-refugees are supposed to think about refugees, for whom every week  every waking hour  is refugee week.

Its not like they can just go home, because home is no longer home. We all know theres no place like home  but what if there is no place to call home anymore?

When I was a young boy, I had my own dreams, says one contributor to an extraordinary new book, Voices From The Jungle. It was never my plan or my dream to come to Europe. I came here by force. Another contributor, still in his teens, says how he longed to live with my mum forever.

All the voices in the book talk lovingly about their homes, their families and communities, the people and places they left behind. Their homesickness seeps into the page. Their powerlessness in the face of war, genocide, ISIS. Their loss.

The stories recounted in Voices From The Jungle, published by Pluto Press, are told by those who spent time in the notorious Calais refugee camp. Even reading the stories is hard  its difficult to imagine what it must be like to have actually lived through them. I dont have words to explain it, says one youngster of his journey to Europe.

It was a kind of hell. Says another, It was terrifying.

And when they reach their place of refuge  safe, wealthy, democratic Europe  they are frequently tear-gassed, herded at gun point, refused safe passage, dismissed as liars, opportunists, even terrorists. This idea is spread by our media, our governments, ourselves  we do not want needy foreigners using up our resources. We dont want to share, or to think longer term.

We dont want to open our doors to those who desperately need refuge  or if we do, we make it as unpleasant as possible for them, so that the message will trickle back that Europe is not all its cracked up to be (with perhaps the honourable exception of Chancellor Merkels Germany). Dont come here, we want refugees to tell others still on their way. They dont want us.

Living in the eternal present might sound like a Buddhist dream, unless you are a refugee. For people forced to leave their homes without a forwarding address, without knowing the whereabouts or safety of their family members, of never knowing when, where  or if  they are next going to eat or sleep, it is a waking nightmare.

And even if all the hurdles are overcome  you reach a safe place, you apply for asylum, you receive it when you show your torture scars, you work like a dog to learn better English/German/French, to become more employable, you find a tiny bedsit and learn to live on tuppence hapenny a week even though at home you were an engineer/ a teacher/ a business owner  then what?

I wish with all my heart I was at home, says one refugee. I miss my home so much.
Permit me to introduce you to a new class of people. This new cohort could be called the Slash Folk. Or perhaps the Dash People. Relatively new to our world, they are, but not what you would call aliens. One example? Stylist/blogger/writer. Another? Personal Trainer/Mentor/Writer. A third? Make-up Artist/Personal Dresser/Concierge.

Anyone whose business card features a rake of slashes or dashes needs to think again, because it signals the desperation of people caught in the gig economy who are grabbing any bit of money thats going and who arent making enough of it in any one of the roles they claim. Its a deadly giveaway, and the sad part is that most of the Slash Folk and Dash People are women. Ive seen only one recent example of a Dash Man. His business card read Consultant/Disrupter/Digital Marketing. Disrupter is a relatively recent cliche meaning someone who overturns a business model. Now, if this man were a real disrupter, hed be making enough money not to have such a frantic introductory card.

All of these unfortunates would be better advised to pick one and concentrate on it. The point is that its perfectly OK to be a Renaissance man or woman. Its perfectly OK to do one main thing and engage in nixers on the side. One political PR man I knew got well paid to do the day job, but got his kicks and a few extra bob playing in a jazz band at weekends. He did not, however, hand around cards reading Ministerial Advisor/Trombonist.

The Slash/Dash thing has invaded government departments, and I hope the new Taoiseach does something about it. Once upon a time, we had a Department of the Environment, and the citizens knew that it dealt with housing and every other aspect of the built environment. It also dealt with local government, roads, bridges and pipes bringing water to homes and businesses. Now, every government department is broken up into a myriad of responsibilities and nobody can remember the central function of any of them. Media long ago gave up on the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (if thats what its called) and simply call it Deeper, which is confusing, especially now that Paschal is in charge of it and almost everything else.

Its all about mission creep, and mission creep is a bad thing. Witness what happened to the Green Party in recent years. They started out as the parliamentary wing of Greenpeace and other environmental activists and ended up as nothing in particular. A tiny party in Government, they had the double-edged sword, in Eamon Ryan, of a nerdy enthusiastic spokesperson who could pitch up and talk about just about everything, while in the process reducing public identification of him and his party with the one specific draw of the Green environment. Although the odd candidate who is known and loved, locally, has squeaked into the Dail, the Greens have been in decline, partly because of association with a Government on whose watch the recession blew us all up, but partly, too, because they didnt keep the protection of the natural environment as their unique selling proposition.

Protecting the natural environment comes way down the agenda of most mainstream political parties, despite being central to present and future life on the planet. It is, however, the rock on which the Green church was built. Their launch, on Saturday, of the Waste Reduction Bill 2017, is congruent with that. The bill takes what Noel Dempsey did for plastic bags. Dempsey changed the landscape by cutting through good intentions and whacking us all with a charge every time we needed a plastic bag at the cash register of our local supermarket. The public started to save their grocery bags and invest in long-term green versions and curse themselves (and Noel Dempsey) every time they forgot their bags and found themselves having to pay for plastic. Instead of plastic bags lurking everywhere, just waiting to tie themselves to the high branches of trees or on a high wind day wrap themselves around your legs or face, they became, literally, thin on the ground.

The Greens are more soft-hearted than Dempsey, and so what theyre proposing is a deposit refund scheme on glass, plastic bottles, and cans. That would mean the consumer not only doesnt have to pay a levy up front, as is the case with buying plastic bags, but would get a refund if they brought these items back. They are proposing getting tough on single-use, non-recyclable plastics such as coffee cups and plastic cutlery. Its arguable that twinning these two may lead to the defeat of the bill, whereas the first, on its own, might have a better chance of passing. The level of lobbying by the fast food industry around the plastic coated cups and cutlery is likely to be high.

Discarded plastics are choking the seas, destroying coastlines, and stuffing landfills. Waste, in general, has grown exponentially since, in 1960, Vance Packards The Waste Makers generated a transient concern about what he dubbed planned obsolescence. Every generation since then, right across the developed world, has needed bigger bins to cope with the waste they generate. Despite all the green bin and recycling efforts, waste generation fell by only 8% between 2003 and 2013 in Europe.

It has been suggested that the recession may have had a brief beneficial effect on waste generation, but the reality is that, in 2013, the average European generated 481kg of waste. Never in the history of humankind has prosperity and waste danced together in such lockstep. Never in the history of humankind has plastic pollution been such a challenge.

Every year, over 110m tonnes of plastic is produced, Mr Ryan maintains. Of this, up to 43% ends up in landfill. According to the UN, 8m tonnes of plastic leak into oceans each year. Its now predicted that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish and that 99% of seabirds will have ingested plastic.

Surveys suggest that almost nine out of 10 people in Ireland like the sound of a deposit refund scheme. Just how enthusiastic local authorities would be about it is unclear, and logically, they would be the ones to operate it. Denis Naughton is quoted by the Greens as being in favour. The question is this: Will the Slash Folk support it? Theyre the ones who buy almost all of their meals in cardboard containers with plastic cutlery supplied. Theyre the ones who consume most of the coffee sold in once-off beakers. Theyre the ones buying water in plastic bottles. You dont see many of them arriving in Costa Coffee with their own re-usable cup, or re-filling their water bottle from the tap. Theyre too busy/broke/disrupted to think much about the future of the planet unless the Greens manage to reach out and convert them as earlier environmentalists did for earlier generations, at least for a time.
When Lenora Roberts started her teaching career, overhead projectors were the new "in" thing for classroom technology.

Jon Jensen can relate. He started his school district career in what was then known as the print shop. In the days before desktop printers, schools needing programs, handouts or newsletters knew he was the guy to see.

The two school district employees are retiring this year, Roberts as a teacher from Greater Albany Public Schools and Jensen from the list of classified employees at Lebanon Community School District.

Both have 37 years invested in their districts but say it's time for a new challenge.

Roberts, 67, actually has 45 years of teaching experience, which she wrapped up Friday in her first-grade classroom at Fir Grove School.

Even after more than four decades, however, she was tempted not to call it a day.

Roberts team-taught with first-grade teacher Molly Palmer, and said she still catches herself thinking about all the fun things they could do next year if she were to stay.

"But another part of me is ready," she said with a sigh. "We have grandchildren now, so I want to spend a little time and enjoy them."

Roberts said she always knew she wanted to be a teacher. As a fourth-grader growing up the west section of Los Angeles, she had a teacher who was so popular kids cheerfully volunteered to stay after school to help in her classroom.

"She always made you feel just  loved," Roberts said. "I always knew that's what I wanted to be."

Roberts started student teaching in the fall of 1971 and took on her first classroom the following January in Boise, Idaho.

She joined the Albany district in 1980 and has spent time at Periwinkle, Waverly and half a semester at Tangent elementary schools. The past 23 years were all at either Fir Grove or Oak Grove, either at first grade or in a first-second blend.

She particularly loves watching first-graders as they move closer to the end of the year. In her own room, shy students practically leap at the chance to share a skill. Students who had trouble forming letters now write full-fledged reports.

"This is when all of their skills have blossomed," she said. "This is what you've waited for all year."

Roberts won't miss everything about teaching. For instance, she said, she's really anticipating the ability to do just one thing at a time.

"I'm looking forward to, at night, sometimes enjoying a book or watching a program and being able to enjoy that, rather than having all my work spread around me on the couch," she said. "And not have to consider what I'm doing, and do I have enough time to do that and still prep for tomorrow."

As much as she's done in recent years, however, she said there used to be even more to do. Gone are the days when she'd cut out letters by hand to decorate a bulletin board, coax the end of a reel-to-reel tape through a projector or spend hours researching a particular classroom unit. These days, she revels in the ability to search the internet for clip art, YouTube videos or pre-vetted class projects.

New avenues means new responsibilities, however, she said. "Do we work less because there's new technology? No. We work more."

On the other hand, she added, teachers also have more in-house support than she remembers from the early days. Colleges offer plenty of in-classroom experiences before new teachers are handed the reins. Districts have mentor teachers on hand to help out.

"Teachers are coming in so qualified today," she said. "We didn't have as many opportunities and experiences when I went."

Although most of his working years have been in various classified departments, Jon Jensen had a hand in teaching, too. In addition to 37 years with the Lebanon Community School District, he taught photography for 20 years at Linn-Benton Community College.

He also taught Lebanon High students who would come to the district's print shop for career education, showing them how to do layouts and print themselves small note pads.

Photography was what drew Jensen to school in the first place. The Tillamook native, now 59, followed a brother to LBCC in 1978. His work-study job was a lab assistant for the photo department, and in 1984 he took over as instructor.

Graphic design intrigued Jensen, who learned to do layouts using Pagemaker on an Apple MacIntosh computer.

When Lebanon was looking for a print shop employee in 1980, Jensen answered. He joined a graphic artist, an assistant and a director, but by the time the district cut the program 25 years later, "it was just me."

Jensen outlasted the college photography class, too, staying until 2004, when digital photography took over and the photo lab closed.

By the time both jobs folded, Jensen was married and was caring for a son who had suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car crash in 1999. Pulling up stakes wasn't really an option, so he looked for new work within the Lebanon district and found it in a part-time custodial position.

He backfilled the lost hours by subbing in the kitchens, then was asked back as a full-time custodian in 2006 at Lebanon High School. He stayed six years, then spent four more at Lacomb School, then spent this year splitting his time between Pioneer and Riverview schools.

Jensen said he thought about retiring last year but decided to hang on a little longer  his wife, Joneda, is retiring from her 19-year Lebanon teaching job this year, too.

He plans next to turn his attention back to the arts. He hasn't ruled out a return to photography, but in the meantime he's revisiting his passion for woodworking, which he first discovered in middle school.

Lebanon residents may recognize his benches, one of which resides in the meeting room at Big Town Hero sandwich shop and another that used to seat visitors to Lacomb. He loves making furniture, but said he's also looking forward to doing more bowls, toys and other smaller items.

It's been a good run with the Lebanon district, Jensen said  he'll miss his colleagues  but there are days he could do without another trash can or sticky floor.

He'll never forget a particular LHS student who took a pen's worth of ink and splattered it all over one of the bathroom stalls. It was an extra three hours of work Jensen hadn't planned on doing. "It looked like a tornado hit it," he said, sighing.

The high school caught the culprit, however, and sentenced him to a summer's worth of hard labor  with Jensen's department.

"He did regret doing it, but he actually enjoyed working with us," Jensen recalled, laughing. "I told him, you can volunteer anytime."
Smart cities are the ultimate emerging platform in ways both good and bad. Positives include healthier and happier citizens, more efficient and environmentally responsible communities, and better services to attract and support businesses.

On the flip side, however, smart cities are poorly defined and based on complex technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), that are just emerging. They demand significant investment and, if projects fail, the host community can be worse off than if the project had not been undertaken in the first place.

Prognostications about the potential of smart cities were released by Cisco. The vendors Digital Cities: Building the New Public Infrastructure extrapolates a study of Houston, Stockholm, Barcelona and Oslo to predict how much money can be generated by 2024 by the additional services and greater efficiencies engendered by smart cities.

The answer is plenty. More specifically, the vendor found that such cities have the potential to generate $2.3 trillion in that time frame. The breakdown: $1.1 trillion in enhanced worker productivity; $401 billion in city utilities and smart meters; $240 billion in safety and security; $188 billion in transportation and urban mobility; $147 billion in improving the citizen experience, $66 billion in city infrastructure management, $59 billion in public Wi-Fi and broadband; $51 billion in open data and $29 billion in cyber security.

That, clearly, is a bit of a best case scenario. Hatem Zeine, founder and CTO of Ossia, a wireless firm, agreed that the potential of smart cities is great. However, he pointed to two significant smart city challenges; one is rooted deeply in the physical world and the other is a bit more esoteric. The former is that a smart city will require millions of sensors. How, he asks, will they all be powered? It is important to note that his company is working on a solution to this challenge, so he has a significant investment in there being a problem to be solved. That said, driving the almost unimaginable number of sensors necessary is a very big task for which success is by no means guaranteed.

The second issue: Incredible amounts of data will be collected by those sensors (assuming the power issue is met). What, precisely, will be done with it? Do the tools exist to get the results that Cisco and others promise? It is a vital question. We could create a dystopia just as easily as we could create a utopia, writes Zeine. The dividing line is deceivingly thin.

There have been incredible changes in technology during the past decade. Whether the advances, collectively, are destined to be an overall success or failure will be determined by the fate of smart cities. The reason is simple: Smart cities are the umbrella platforms upon which virtually all of these technologies must prove themselves. The promise is great and the signs are good. But the jury is still out.

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.
Its been a while since Ive talked about the security risks to the critical infrastructure that keeps our country (and the world) operating. However, a recently discovered malware threat could crash that infrastructure, and it is believed this malware is what took down Ukraines power grid late last year. As The Hill reported:

Security firms ESET and Dragos revealed the malware, dubbed Crash Override or Industroyer, this week. According to the researchers, the malware is only the second to be tailored to industrial control systems and developed and deployed to be disruptive  the first was the Stuxnet virus that ravaged Irans nuclear program years ago.

What makes this malware so dangerous, ESET senior malware researcher Anton Cherepanov was quoted saying in eSecurity Planet, is its ability to control substations on the electrical grid. And the protocols used for that infrastructure carry over to other vital utilities.

Part of the problem is that security was never baked into the networks that run the power grid and other utilities, and many of those industrial systems are also outdated, adding another layer of risk, as CNET reported:

The issue with the computers running our critical infrastructure is that theyre easy to hijack if you can break into the network theyre on, experts said. With a lifespan of 25 to 35 years, theyre not updated often and dont get replaced for decades, said Galina Antova, co-founder of industrial security company Claroty.

We know that cybercriminals are targeting old, outdated systems and software. We know that they have the ability to take down chunks of the internet with DDoS and malware attacks. Hacks into the election system show that cybercrime isnt all about financial gain, but about gaining control and manipulation. Its about power, and I dont mean the utility kind.

I agree with what Michael Shalyt, CEO with industrial cybersecurity startup APERIO Systems, said in an email comment:

Make no mistake. Attacks on the digital systems that control physical critical infrastructure systems are dangerous. But existing failsafe mechanisms can mitigate damage from these hacks. What worries me is what happens when hackers directly attack physical systems themselves? What happens when attackers figure out that manipulating data crucial to decision-making can result in catastrophic damage  not just turning off the lights for a few hours? The seeds of the threat are sown and the price of failure is clear. The question is: What will we see first, a massive outage that endangers millions, or a massive effort by government and industry to counter these threats?

Sue Marquette Poremba has been writing about network security since 2008. In addition to her coverage of security issues for IT Business Edge, her security articles have been published at various sites such as Forbes, Midsize Insider and Toms Guide. You can reach Sue via Twitter: @sueporemba
The Nokia 9 is likely to be unveiled this coming July, or August. Its exact release date is not known yet however its launch is imminent as per a recent report, it has been spotted on Geekbench benchmarking site for the second time.

According to the reports, FCC documents unveil that the Nokia 9, which is already certified by the regulatory agency with the model number of TA-1004, will be known now as the TA-1012. Reported by a source, HMD requested the change noting that the previous FCC results for the TA-1004 are representative of the TA-1012.

Geekbench benchmark tests for the Nokia 9 have unveiled versions of the smartphone with both 6GB and 8GB of RAM. Both of these tested variants were powered by the high-end Snapdragon 835 chipset. Another Geekbench test of the now canceled TA-1004 revealed a phone carrying 4GB of RAM. This would seem to claim that HMD has killed off a version of the Nokia 9 with 4GB of the short term memory used to assist with multitasking.

Nokia 9: Specifications

Nokia 9 will feature a 5.5-inch QHD OLED screen and will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 835 processor with massive of 6GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. Nokia 9 is set to sport a 22-megapixel primary camera on the rear and a 12-megapixel for the front. Keeping the power on is a 3800mAh battery. The upcoming Nokia 9device is reported to come with an IP68 rating, an iris scanner, a Quick Charge 4 support, Zeiss optics and a fingerprint scanner.

Furthermore, the Nokia 9 will hit the market soon with impressive and powerful specifications and is said to beat the already released Samsung Galaxy S8 and the upcoming major flagships of this year like OnePlus 5, Google Pixel 2 and Apple iPhone 8. The device is more likely to come with a price of $700.
The 2017 Honda Civic Type R is one of the most extensive new release cars of this year. This generation of Honda Civic also signs the first time that any product from the automaker will be sold in the United States with the fabled Type-R brand. The auction for the first-ever production of the 2017 Civic Type-R was wrapped up selling for a majestic $200,000 worth.

2017 Honda Civic Type R is really worth the wait since it really stands out compared to other flagship vehicles. According to The Drive, the car has a 2.0-liter turbo cylinder engine, which makes 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Through its front wheels, the Honda Civic Type R was able to lay down a 7:43.8 of Nurburgring lap time.

Some may wonder if Honda Civic Type R is worth the price and if $200,000 is deserving for a supercar like this. That is exactly what Honda want to emphasize with regards to the car's value. The newest Civic model was sold for the price of $200,000 because it was for a charity auction.

As reported by CNET, the charity auction of this first ever unit of the Honda Civic Type R has been organized between the automaker itself, Bring A Trailer and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. For the sake of helping the needy. Bring A Trailer even comes before their usual five percent cut-off on the auction's winning bid in order to donate the money. The winner of the auction will have the car shipped to the nearest Honda dealer and this is courtesy of Honda themselves.

This newest Honda car is destined to become a pedestal queen, as many high-dollar vehicles often do. And those people who are unable to afford the $200,000 price tag for a specific car type just like the Honda Civic Type R, do not worry, we can still stare at the car's unit while it is being displayed, as well as its Nurburgring lap.
In a recent report, France's state-run railway operator SNCF is working closely to a driverless high-speed train for its national rail system, called "drone trains" on the tracks. The company is planning to test "drone trains" next year, with hopes that the TGV trains will start running four years after that. SNCF President Guillaume Pepy noted that they will be the world's first operator to run a high-speed autonomous train if this project will become successful.

According to a source, the train operator SNCF believes that it can run 25 percent more trains between Paris and Lyon using this technology, and cut the time between trains from 180 seconds to 108 seconds. The driverless train would be packed with external sensors that would enable it to detect obstacles on the tracks and automatically brake if necessary. Considering the "open environment" of this kind of operations, conductors would continue to ride along for a while after the system is initiated, if an instance, emergencies or unexpected events. Reports claim that this is an apparent difference from Paris' automated subways, which does not require such security measures.

The SNCF anticipates the service to start in six years, and initial trials of the so-called "drone trains" should begin next year. NCF adjoint director Matthieu Chabanel will be on par with the drone trains to autopilot systems aboard an airplane. Through the drone trains, SNCF expects to ramp up the frequency and speed of TGV trips, especially around Paris.

A team of ten people is devoted to the project, and they are teaming up with research institutions and other rail companies like Alstom. On the other note, Elon Musk launched his tunnel boring company this 2017. Tesla CEO plans to build a huge underground network of tunnels in California including 30 levels of tunnels for cars and high-speed trains.
In a recent news, drones have been used for the illegal transportation of contraband such as phones, drugs, and porn into numerous federal prisons all over the US for the past 5 years. An information was recovered through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) that the dandy little UAVs were also said used for similar purposes at state holding facilities.

At a high-security federal prison in Victorville, California, an inmate got a friend to deliver two cell smartphones to the facility via drone in March 2015, according to FOIA files. It went easily at least for the smuggler and inmate with the incident only coming to light months after. However, this isn't just a one-off act of illegal smuggling with the help of a hobby drone. This has happened also in numerous cities all over America such as Oakdale, Louisiana, Seagoville, Texas, Atwater, California, and Cumberland, Maryland. And though mobile phones could be somewhat harmless, drones are also being used to deliver drugs in and out of prison.

More so, criminals are capitalizing on drones' potential while entrepreneurial companies which include Amazon are using them to announce services like Amazon Prime Air, which delivers packages weighing up to five pounds in a span of 30 minutes or less. The documents also detail multiple attempts by inmates to smuggle illicit property into some guarded facilities.

In 2016, a recently released inmate and two accomplices were condemned of smuggling drugs and porn into Maryland's Western Correctional Institution with the aid of a drone. Police said several nighttime missions appointed the three perpetrators about $6,000 per drop. The Federal Aviation Administration does not yet enforce laws that obstruct drones from flying across sensitive sites. Furthermore, a pending Senate Bill, the Drone Federalism Act, will "affirm state regulatory authority regarding the operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), or drones."
In the future, people will be traveling by flying taxis. At least that's how Airbus imagines the future of public transportation.

According to The Verge, Airbus is working on an on-demand aviation project hailed as Vahana. The Vahana is just one of three stages of the A initiative which is mainly involved in the development of vertical take-off and landing or VTOL aircraft.

Airbus has been developing the technology for more than a year now. It plans on releasing a fleet of the VTOL aircrafts that will take off and land on rooftops to avoid any kind of traffic issues. The flying taxis will be self-driving or self-piloting electric vehicles with a number of rotors.

Mashable pointed out that that the process of getting a flying taxi will be as easy as pressing a button on one's smartphone. As mentioned, the VTOL project will likely employ an on-demand deployment method similar to how Uber functions. In the video, a computer generated person named Deborah punches in the details on her smartphone through an app that allows her to request for a ride. The details include boarding time, departure and arrival helipads, estimated flight time, and the fare. Vahana then lands on the nearest vertiport and then coordinates with air traffic control to determine a deconflicted flight path.

Once the passenger is on board the flying taxi, the VTOL aircraft will perform flight safety checks before it asks the passenger to initiate takeoff. It takes off vertically before proceeding with its predetermined flight path. While in the air, the flying taxi can detect any possible obstructions such as birds.

Airbus is not the only major company or country dreaming of taking to the skies. Uber for one is set on releasing its fleet of flying taxis in Dubai by 2020. Singapore also has expressed its plans to have flying taxis in its skies in the next thirteen years. As for Airbus, it will unveil its vision next week at the Paris Air Show.
Friends and family of Rialee Roth, an 8-year-old Lebanon girl fighting Hodgkins lymphoma, invite the public to a fundraiser dinner and auction from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 24.

The event will be held at the Boys & Girls Club of the Greater Santiam in Lebanon, 305 Fifth St. Participants are asked to wear the color violet in support of Rialees battle.

Dinner is a taco bar available for $10 per person or $20 per family. Kona shave ice will be available for purchase.

Tickets will be available at the event to purchase for a variety of activities, including karaoke, a cake walk, face painting and a photo booth. A silent auction will have items up for bid.

Rialee was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, a cancer of the blood, in March and started chemotherapy on May 27. She will complete five cycles, each 21 days long.

A week after her first cycle, her white blood count dropped dangerously low and she became neutropenic, said her mother, Rhianna Roth. She was admitted to Doernbecher Children's Hospital in Portland and stayed for six days, until her numbers were high enough to be released.

"Other than that, she is tolerating the chemo like a rock star," her mother said, adding that a port placement was scheduled for June 16. "If all goes well and she can keep her numbers up, she should be completed by the middle of September! Treatment is short, but intense for Hodgkin's."

People who would like to help the Roth family defray the costs of treatment but who are unable to make the fundraiser can contribute to an online GoFundMe site or purchase Rally for Rialee bracelets by contacting Kristin Giddings at 541-401-4103.

"And most important, all well wishes, prayers and happy thoughts are always appreciated," Rhianna said.
Ten years ago: Pupils from Shalfleet Primary School joined Jamie Oliver, Delia Smith, and Rick Stein by producing a healthy cookbook. Eat Cool with Shalfleet School was the result of months of work by Year 4 pupils who produced the cookbook with little adult help.

Some of the pupils are pictured having a healthy lunch at the Countryman pub with trainee chef and former pupil Jenny Hayles and head chef Shaun Galvin.



100 Years Ago

June 16, 1917

THE appearance of disease in the potato crop was recorded in several counties from as far apart as Dorset and Yorkshire, sparking fears the Island could also fall prey.

The Island Council, at the behest of the Board of Agriculture, was to begin preventative spraying immediately.

By the end of the week, 7,000 knapsack spraying appliances were distributed in high-risk areas across the country.





75 Years Ago

June 20, 1942

COWES milk retailers met at Northwood House to discuss the rationalisation of milk distribution.

The Ministry of Food policy stated any urban district with a population of more than 10,000 must give consideration to rationalising the retail distribution of milk so that manpower may be conserved and economy effected in transport.

It was agreed waste was to be minimised and efficiency savings were to be made.





50 Years Ago

June 17, 1967

DESPITE the new found popularity of hovercraft, Cowes residents were quick to level complaints at the noise.

It was worried if the noise continued, hundreds of yachtsmen living on craft in the harbour would find it intolerable.

This would seriously affect Cowes as a port and it was hoped the authority would keep this matter at the forefront.





25 Years Ago

June 19, 1992

WELL-WISHERS rallied round to help raise funds to pay for a three-day visit by a group of 50 Russian orphans.

Only the week before, part-time teacher Mark Coote was planning on selling his personal belongings to help fund the trip.

However, following an appeal in the County Press, Mr Coote received more than 3,000 in donations in less than a week.





10 Years Ago

June 15, 2007

AN IW Festival reveller, who attempted to cross one of the worlds busiest shipping lanes in a dinghy, was rescued by Cowes Inshore Lifeboat after losing both of his oars.

The unnamed man in his 20s was trying to cross from Cowes to Portsmouth and made a panic call to HM Coastguards by mobile phone just after 3am.

A lifeboat spokesperson said: Although the man could not accurately tell the coastguards his position, we found him at The Shrape off East Cowes,

He was more than a little surprised when we pointed out the boat was in no more than 18ins of water and he could have waded ashore.


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Editors note: This story originally ran in the Winston-Salem Journal on March 21, 1999

Its not hard to imagine how an area near an east bend in the Yadkin River came to be named East Bend.

Just as descriptive but more imaginative is the name of the Avery County town of Pineola, named for the prevalence of pines and a young woman who lived there named Ola.

Most of the names of cities and towns in Northwest North Carolina are descriptive or historical, based on some geographical feature or a tribute of sorts to the name of a prominent person. But a few are downright serendipitous.

When a group in Iredell County established a town in 1789, the year North Carolina was granted statehood, it made a nod to this bit of history by naming its town Statesville.

Wilkesboro took its name from the county, which is named for John Wilkes, an English politician who championed American rights during the Revolution.

Some names are not so straightforward, such as the ones that describe the hopes or beliefs its citizens held for their town.

When the town of Shady Grove in eastern Davie County got a post office in 1877, its name had to be changed because there already was a Shady Grove post office in the state.

The local citizens expected the addition of a post office would lead to progress in their community, so they named it Advance.

A few names are a direct result of the difficulty that townsfolk had in agreeing on a name.

Take the group of men who couldnt agree on what to name their community near the headwaters of Stony Branch, Moore Branch and Buffalo Creek in Watauga County.

They decided that the next word uttered by any one of them would be accepted by all of them.

After a lengthy period of silence, B.B. Dougherty stood up, stretched and said Aho! which is how the community of Aho got its name.

In the early 1900s in northern Davidson County, a meeting was called in the hamlet of Hinkle to decide upon a name for a depot to be built on the new Winston-Salem Southbound Railway, which ran through Hinkle.

Records of the meeting say that disagreement came quickly. After several suggestions and no agreement, a man told the group that the name was not as important as the fact that everyone was welcome to come to the village.

Another man immediately suggested that the name be Welcome and all agreed.

It eventually became the towns name.
Updated at 2:24 p.m.

BEIRUT  Russia has threatened aircraft from the U.S.-led coalition in Syrian-controlled airspace and suspended a hotline intended to avoid collisions in retaliation for the U.S. military shooting down a Syrian warplane.

The U.S. said it had downed the Syrian jet on Monday after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces conducting operations against the Islamic State group, saying that was something it would not tolerate.

The downing of the warplane  the first time in the six-year conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet  came amid another first: Iran fired several ballistic missiles Sunday night at IS positions in eastern Syria in what it said was a message to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The developments added to already-soaring regional tensions and reflect the intensifying rivalry among the major players in Syria's civil war that could spiral out of control just as the fight against the Islamic State group in its stronghold of Raqqa is gaining ground.

Updated at 8:51 a.m.

BEIRUT  Russia's defense ministry says it will treat U.S.-led coalition planes in Syria, west of the Euphrates River, as targets after the U.S. military shot down a Syrian Air Force jet on Sunday.

Moscow has condemned the U.S. downing of the Syrian government fighter jet after it dropped bombs nears U.S. partner forces.

The Russian defense ministry says in a statement that, starting Monday, it will track all jets and drones of the U.S.-led coalition west of the Euphrates and treat them as targets.

The ministry also called on the U.S. military to provide a full account of why it decided to shoot down the Syrian SU-22.

Russia, a key backer of Syrian President Bashar Assad, has been providing an air cover to the government's offensive on the Islamic State group since 2015.

WASHINGTON  The U.S. military on Sunday shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants, an action that appeared to mark a new escalation of the conflict.

The U.S. had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation, said Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman. While the U.S. has said since it began recruiting, training and advising what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces to fight IS that it would protect them from potential Syrian government retribution, this was the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.

The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq said in a written statement that a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces.

The shootdown was near Tabqa, a Syrian town in an area that has been a weekslong focus of fighting against IS militants by the SDF as they surround the city of Raqqa and attempt to retake it from IS.

The U.S. military statement said it acted in "collective self defense" of its partner forces and that the U.S. did not seek a fight with the Syrian government or its Russian supporters.

According to a statement from the Pentagon, pro-Syrian regime forces attacked the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces-held town of Ja'Din, south of Tabqah in northern Syria, wounding a number of SDF fighters and driving the SDF from the town.

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force and stopped the initial pro-regime advance toward the town, the Pentagon said. Following the pro-Syrian forces attack, the coalition called its Russian counterparts "to de-escalate the situation and stop the firing," according to the statement.

A few hours later, the Syrian SU-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters and, "in collective self-defense of coalition-partnered forces," was immediately shot down by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet, the Pentagon said.

"The coalition's mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria," the Pentagon said, using an abbreviation for the Islamic State group. "The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat. "

U.S. forces tangled earlier this month with Syria-allied aircraft in the region. On June 8, U.S. officials reported that a drone likely connected to Iranian-supported Hezbollah forces fired on U.S.-backed troops and was shot down by an American fighter jet. The incident took place in southern Syria near a base where the U.S.-led coalition was training Syrian rebels fighting the Islamic State group.

An Army spokesman at the Pentagon said at the time that the drone carried more weapons and was considered a direct threat, prompting the shootdown.

___

Associated Press writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.
The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk, Virginia, reports two eastern North Carolina prosecutors recently decided independently to pursue murder cases after three people died of opioid overdoses. Three people have been charged in the two cases in Hyde and Dare counties.
SAN DIEGO -- There are some basic truths that hold even during the Trump-inspired meltdown of the modern media.

In one of the latest examples of our information crisis, CNN took a story last week about how a friend of Donald Trump said after a meeting at the White House that he thought the president was considering firing Robert Mueller. Then the network sloppily repackaged the story so it could report that Trump was, in fact, thinking about terminating the special counsel. Then CNN got a whole bunch of people to comment -- from pundits and reporters to elected officials -- and used those quotes to serve as the new jumping off point for a day's worth of stories.

And when House Speaker Paul Ryan objected and pointed out the whole story was manufactured by the media, CNN anchors tried to justify their boo-boo by saying that some conservative pundits like Ann Coulter have called for Mueller's removal and insisting that the White House had yet to deny the story.

You know liberals are busted when they're desperate enough to seek cover behind a rhetorical arsonist like Ann Coulter.

What in the world has happened to my profession? It seems that many journalists -- especially those in the New York-Washington echo chamber -- are so personally offended by the idea of Trump being president, and so embarrassed that they missed the big story of how someone like Trump could get elected, that they've thrown out the rule book and forgotten everything we were ever taught by crusty old editors about double-sourcing and triple-checking.

Yet, certain truths still apply:

-- The best-written columns, and the most credible newscasts, are the ones we most agree with.

-- The best constructed and most persuasive arguments are the ones that share our position.

And finally -- thanks to the opinion storm following James Comey's testimony -- we can add to the list:

-- In any "he said, he said" situation, the more believable person is the one we support.

-- And while it's up to the criminal justice system to make the punishment fit the crime, you will find lawyers who -- guided by partisanship -- can find a crime to fit a president.

If you like Trump, you thought Comey lied from start to finish. If you dislike Trump, you believed the former FBI director told the truth from beginning to end.

One exception to that rule -- and a refreshing one at that -- is retired Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz, who didn't let his opposition to Trump (he claims to have voted for Hillary Clinton) stop him from offering straight legal analysis.

On CNN, Dershowitz argued that Comey's testimony revealed no evidence of a crime. The president has the legal authority to stop an FBI investigation, and thus there can be no obstruction of justice. The fact that there have been so many other lawyer-pundits trying to argue otherwise -- while standing on shaky constitutional ground -- shows just how far we've drifted off course.

Exhibit A: CNN senior legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin, a Harvard Law graduate himself who has insisted all along -- before much of the facts are in -- that this is a clear-cut case of obstruction of justice that may ultimately lead to impeachment.

This is where Trump's critics go astray. They mix together -- in one pot -- the legal term "obstruction of justice" and the political concept of "impeachment." The former has a much higher standard, and operates within much narrower parameters, than the latter. All you need for impeachment is 218 votes in the House of Representatives. Proving obstruction of justice, or even charging someone with that crime, is much more difficult.

So says Elizabeth Foley, a sharp-as-nails lawyer and law professor at Florida International University. During an appearance on CNN's "Fareed Zakaria GPS," Foley did to the host, and Harvard Law professor Lawrence Tribe -- a vocal supporter of Hillary Clinton, and early Trump critic -- what a sushi chef does to raw fish. Foley's main point was that, under existing federal code, it is not clear that an FBI investigation is one of the procedures that an individual can be charged with obstructing.

Zakaria's response was to meekly plead with Foley not to get "too technical."

Not to get too technical, but the evidence shows that Trump's persecutors -- in the media, Congress and the nation's law schools -- have gone off the rails. They're not thinking clearly. In some cases, they're not thinking at all.

The Washington Post
The US Supreme Court [official website] ruled [opinion, PDF] 4-2 Monday in Ziglar v. Abbasi [SCOTUSblog materials] that Muslim men detained in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks cannot sue top US officials. The three consolidated cases center on the arrest and detention of Middle Eastern men illegally present in the US when they were arrested for immigration violations. The men claimed that former US attorney general John Ashcroft, former FBI director Robert Mueller and a former Immigration and Naturalization Services commissioner confined them despite allegedly knowing they had no ties to terrorism. In an opinion by Justice Anthony Kennedy, the court noted that the men were mistreated:

If the facts alleged in the complaint are true, then what happened to respondents in the days following September 11 was tragic. Nothing in this opinion should be read to condone the treatment to which they contend they were subjected. The question before the Court, however, is not whether petitioners alleged conduct was proper, nor whether it gave decent respect to respondents dignity and well-being, nor whether it was in keeping with the idea of the rule of law that must inspire us even in times of crisis.

However, the court found that plaintiffs could not bring a Bivens [opinion] claim challenging the detention policy. The court remanded the claim against a jailer regarding detainee treatment to the lower court. The court also found that the officials were entitled to qualified immunity against claims under 42 USC  1985(3) [text].

Justice Stephen Breyer filed a dissenting opinion, in which Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg joined. Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Elega Kagan and Neil Gorsuch took no part in the case. This is the third case where the court has ruled for Ashcroft [JURIST news archive] in suits against him and other top officials for conduct following the 9/11 attacks.
The US Supreme Court [official website] held [opinion, PDF] on Monday that California courts lack specific jurisdiction to hear the claims brought against Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMS) [corporate website]. BMS manufactures and sells Plavix, a prescription drug that prevents blood clots by thinning the blood. Nearly 700 plaintiffs, only 86 of whom are California residents, filed eight separate complaints in California Superior Court [official website] asserting that the drug had damaged their health. The court looked to settled principles to reach its decision, stating, In order for a court to exercise specific jurisdiction over a claim, there must be an affiliation between the forum and the underlying controversy, principally, an activity or an occurrence that takes place in the forum State. BMS is incorporated in Delaware and headquartered in New York and maintains large operations in New York and New Jersey. While BMS does engage in business activities in other jurisdictions, including California, BMS did not develop Plavix in California, did not create a marketing strategy for Plavix in California, and did not manufacture, label, package, or work on the regulatory approval of the product in California. The amount of the drug sold in California amounts to a little over one percent of the companys total national sales. The plaintiffs contended that because BMS contracted with a California advertising company provides a basis for specific jurisdiction but the court stated that the fact that BMS contracted with a California distributor is not enough to establish personal jurisdiction in the State. Justice Sonia Sotomayor filed a dissenting opinion:

I fear the consequences of the Courts decision today will be substantial. The majoritys rule will make it difficult to aggregate the claims of plaintiffs across the country whose claims may be worth little alone. It will make it impossible to bring a nationwide mass action in state court against defendants who are at home in different States. And it will result in piecemeal litigation and the bifurcation of claims. None of this is necessary. A core concern in this Courts personal jurisdiction cases is fairness. And there is nothing unfair about subjecting a massive corporation to suit in a State for a nationwide course of conduct that injures both forum residents and nonresidents alike.

The Supreme Court granted certiorari in Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. v. Superior Court of California, San Francisco County [SCOTUSBlog materials] in January and heard arguments [JURIST reports] in April.
The US Supreme Court [official website] held [opinion, PDF] on Monday in Packingham v. North Carolina [SCOTUSBlog materials] that North Carolinas statute  14-202.5 [text], which banned sex offenders from using commercial websites accessed by minors, violates the First Amendment [text]. The statute was implemented to protect young adults from predatory practices often employed by sex offenders who target minors. The court found that the statute was too broad for the purpose of preventing recidivism and that barring the usage of several websites was too prohibitive and compromised freedom of speech. Justice Anthony Kennedy stated:

By prohibiting sex offenders from using those websites, North Carolina with one broad stroke bars access to what for many are the principal sources for knowing current events, checking ads for employment, speaking and listening in the modern public square, and otherwise exploring the vast realms of human thought and knowledge. These websites can provide perhaps the most powerful mechanisms available to a private citizen to make his or her voice heard. They allow a person with an Internet connection to become a town crier with a voice that resonates farther than it could from any soapbox.

Kennedy also pointed out that the Supreme Court has often sought to protect the right to speak in physically spatial contexts, such as parks and street corners and that While in the past there may have been difficulty in identifying the most important places (in a spatial sense) for the exchange of views, today the answer is clear. It is cyberspace  the vast democratic forums of the Internet. As one of the first cases to address the relationship between the Internet and the First Amendment, the court wanted to exercise extreme caution before suggesting that the First Amendment provides scant protection for access to vast networks in that medium.

The Supreme Court granted certiorari in Packingham in October and heard arguments [JURIST reports] in February. Lester Packingham had been a registered sex offender since 2002 when an officer doing routine searches on social media websites found a Facebook [official website] profile he confirmed belonged to Packingham. Packingham had made a post thanking God for good fortune concerning a traffic violation, an act which was prohibited by North Carolinas statute. A jury convicted him of accessing a commercial social networking site. He appealed to the North Carolina Court of Appeals, which vacated Packinghams conviction on the grounds that 14-202.5 banned the freedom of speech and association via social media. The State of North Carolina then appealed to the Supreme Court of North Carolina, where Packinghams acquittal was subsequently reversed.
Forget glossy brochures and the pantomime of buying a new car. Game software and wearable technology is changing the way we shop. Consumers in shopping centres or sitting at home can now visualise their next yet-to-be-launched car in any configuration using a Virtual Reality (VR) headset. Continuing just-auto/QUBE's series of research snapshots, this one takes a look at how, from engineering and styling to marketing and retail, VR continues to surprise and delight.

Virtual Reality is the name of the game

Behind every compelling video game is a software engine on which images are created in real-time and stored for later use. One of the frontrunners in developing VR platforms for gaming, and now for automotive applications, is Unreal Engine Enterprise (a division of Epic Games).

"Applications range from experiential sales and marketing applications aimed at the consumer, to tools with accelerate design and engineering processes that address a broad range of issues."

"Virtual Reality defines a system that allows a user to feel and operate in a digital world, as they might in the real world," Simon Jones, director of Unreal Engine Enterprise, told just-auto. "Done well, VR is immersive, putting the viewer directly into a scene. At its heart is a real-time 'engine' that allows developers to create virtual worlds, with users immersed in these worlds using a headset that tracks their movement in real and digital space and ensures the experience is as real as possible. Applications range from experiential sales and marketing applications aimed at the consumer, to tools with accelerate design and engineering processes that address a broad range of issues such as model proliferation, integration of radical new technologies and the challenges presented by global markets."

New generation of car configurators

Using VR headsets, car designers are also able to show top management completed prototype vehicles and interiors. BMW recently revealed how VR is being used in the design process. Jones sees this as one of the major application areas, adding that the automaker's system is built using the Unreal Engine technology platform. A number of others are taking a similar course. Jones added: "BMW can simulate drives through a city while testing the all-round view of the surroundings or whether a display is poorly legible or awkward to reach depending on the viewing angle or Seat position. They have acknowledged that this technology 'makes it possible to save a great deal of time and effort, especially during the early stages of development.'"

The physical and virtual are indeed coming together, says BMW's Peter Schwarzenbauer, member of the board of management of BMW AG Mini, Rolls-Royce, BMW Motorrad, customer engagement and digital business innovation, BMW group. BMW is "merging quite a bit," he told just-auto to the point many customers can configure a car online and show up at the dealership, a salesman can call up the configuration, the customer does not "have to explain it all again".

A game changer for Audi

"There are lots of benefits for the car manufacturer and customer, but fundamentally it means a richer, more interactive and engaging experience."

Last year, Audi was the first automaker to introduce a VR system into the car showroom, supported by its visualisation partner, ZeroLight. "We've brought a new way to think about car configurators and customer experiences with virtual cars," marketing director, Jason Collins, told just-auto. "That fundamental difference is that ZeroLight is a software-led solution rather than an asset-led solution. Whereas last-generation car configurators used a large quantity of individual pictures of cars composited together with rudimentary software, ZeroLight uses very advanced software and few individual assets. Fundamentally it's the difference between looking at photos and you holding the camera. There are lots of benefits to this for the car manufacturer and the customer, but fundamentally it means a richer, more interactive and more engaging experience."

Try before you buy, offers Ford

Ford foresees that we could one day try any car, anywhere, and for as long as we want, thanks to VR. The carmaker says it is integrating VR into the way it designs its vehicles. Ford is exploring how the technology could change the retail experience. "It really is a blank canvas. It is easy to imagine that someone who wants to buy an SUV could experience taking that car for a test drive over desert dunes without leaving the comfort of their home," said Jeffrey Nowak, global digital experience chief, Ford Motor Company. "Likewise, if you're in the market for a city car you could be at home, relaxing in your PJs and fit in trying out the peak-time school run after you've put the kids to bed." Quite.

VR is the Next Big Thing

Jaguar Land Rover is also using virtual reality in its dealerships. Retailers are able to connect customers to a virtual tour where they can see and interact with a life-size model through a VR headset. Using the latest digital technology, the headset will use animations to illustrate the technical details.

Other luxury automakers are on the case, using VR in different ways. Lexus has developed a Lexus RC F virtual reality driving experience allowing users to feel the thrill of a high-speed race track in Marbella, southern Spain. The result is as close as you can get to experience the speed handling and sound of a 475hp RC F without actually sitting in the cockpit.

As a novel variation on a theme, VW's SEAT brand recently conducted a 'virtual handover' of over 100 new Leons to a large corporate customer. The carmaker said the operation gives a strong indication of how technology could be used to enhance the delivery experience of cars to the next generation of connected drivers. SEAT also noted the innovation substantially reduced vehicle delivery time.

Visitors to Hyundai's stand at the Seoul motor show last March were treated to a driverless journey via immersive VR simulators. A virtual trip in an autonomous Ioniq aimed to demonstrate the advanced piloting capabilities of the carmaker's latest technology, enabling the car to navigate without driver input. Meanwhile, KIA's showcase included a VR theatre demonstrating its so-called Drive Wise driver assistance systems. Drive Wise embodies Kia's philosophy to realise intelligently safe vehicles and improve safety for all road users.

While VR has obvious benefits for dealerships, it is also used further upstream. Volkswagen is using VR technologies to provide assembly training for employees. Initially, workers can practise an assembly sequence in the virtual world with tutorials and videos on a smartphone, giving them the optimum preparation for practical assembly work.

Although VR brings a number of opportunities, do the applications need costly hardware to run? "That's another area where the technology is advancing quickly," said Jones. "A year ago the answer would have been yes, but now you can run a professional VR application on a powerful laptop computer. Unreal Engine is designed to be extremely efficient, which means it reduces the demands on hardware. The high-end graphics cards needed are still relatively expensive in desktop terms, so being able to use one, rather than two or three, also makes a huge difference."

VR is not a gimmick but set to play a key role in the automotive industry.

Visualising our next car through a sci-fi headset is not a gimmick but looks set to play a significant role in automotive retail. Last week, we learned from market psychologists, Concept M, how they too are exploring the use of VR in automotive research settings. We also recently learned that more disruption to the online car retail sector could be on the horizon with the arrival to the market of online retailer Amazon. Serving the used car market, Vroom is an online direct car retailer. The start-up is reported to be planning to open VR showrooms at its offices and pop-up shopping centre stores in Texas, US.

Virtual autonomous driving is already possible using VR, complete with a realistic crash if you get it wrong. Going a step further, meet Synthia. It may look like just another computer game but is designed to teach autonomous cars to be better drivers.

Is this the future?

There are some who believe that the advent of VR technology will fundamentally change the way we live over the coming decades. Cinemas will immerse audiences in VR movies, patients will undergo VR treatment and customers will enter the world of the products or services they are interested in, enabling a whole new dimension to the idea of sampling, or trying out new things. Cars are no different.

See also 2017 Automotive Megatrends and Markets Report
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Recently, some safety and tech experts have argued that Apple has bowed to mounting pressure to make its smartphones safer behind the wheel. The technology giant was named in a class action lawsuit in early 2017, in which plaintiffs claimed Apple patented the technology necessary to disable its iPhones yet deliberately chose not to install a disabling feature on its devices. In a separate case, plaintiffs filed suit against the company for failing to warn motorists not to use its FaceTime app while driving.

Recently, Apple announced that new versions of its operating system will feature a disabling app that turns phones off when a user is driving.

What Is the Do Not Disturb While Driving Mode?

The appropriately named Do Not Disturb While Driving Mode is exactly what it sounds like. When an iPhone user gets behind the wheel, the phone will have the ability to sense when the vehicle is in motion and disable notifications. The feature can also be set to act like a gatekeeper by permitting only specific callers to come through while a user is behind the wheel.

According to an NPR report, eight people are killed each day in distracted driving accidents. Over 1,000 people are injured in distracted driving crashes. And at any given time on U.S. roads, about 660,000 people are using a phone while they drive.

Currently, the majority of states prohibit the youngest drivers from using mobile phones, but just 14 states have laws on the books that ban all drivers regardless of age from using handheld devices behind the wheel. Pennsylvania law prohibits drivers from sending or reading texts, emails, or messages. However, the law does not ban motorists from using a cell phone to talk.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Discusses Distracted Driving

Philadelphia car accident lawyer Rand Spear explains, Apples new feature is promising, but it isnt foolproof. News reports state that the Do Not Disturb While Driving setting can be disabled by passengers. Critics point out that the phone has no way of knowing if someone in the vehicle is a driver or a passenger. The setting is a positive step in the right direction, but the best way to avoid a distracting driving accident is to turn your phone off any time you get behind the wheel.

Contact a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Today

Have you been injured by a distracted driver? These types of accidents have increased significantly in recent years. Dont let someone elses carelessness stop you from enjoying life to its full potential. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Discuss your options and the next steps in your case with Philadelphia and New Jersey car accident lawyer Rand Spear today at 1-877-GET-RAND.

source: http://randspear.com/2017/06/15/philadelphia-car-accident-lawyer-discusses-apple-putting-brakes-distracted-driving/

Social Media Tags:Philadelphia Car Accident, Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer, Distracted Driving, Apple Smartphone, Do Not Disturb While Driving Mode

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Dallas, 06/19/2017 /SubmitPressRelease123/

Double jeopardy is a subject most people have heard of but dont always fully understand. According to news reports, the Supreme Court of the United States may be set to hear a double jeopardy case that originated in Texas.

The case involves a former contract electrician for a Texas school district who was accused of fraud and money laundering in federal court in 2011. After a mistrial, he pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of failing to pay his taxes on time.

After the mistrial at the federal level, the state leveled charges against him  again for fraud and money laundering. Now, he is asking the Supreme Court to revise an exception to the double jeopardy rule that allows states to prosecute individuals for similar federal offenses, even after they have been prosecuted at the federal level.

What Is Double Jeopardy?

The Fifth Amendment provides that a person cant be prosecuted twice for the same crime. This means that an individual cant be prosecuted more than once after a conviction or acquittal. The Double Jeopardy Clause also protects against a person being punished twice for the same crime.

The Double Jeopardy Clause only applies to criminal cases, which means a person can be prosecuted for a crime, such as a murder, and still face civil penalties in civil court for causing damaged arising out of the same incident. In the case of a murder, for example, the person could still be sued in the civil system for wrongful death.

What Is the Dual Sovereignty Doctrine?

The Texas case turns on what is known as the dual sovereignty doctrine, which holds that the federal government and the individual states are each sovereign over their own territories. Under this exception to the Double Jeopardy Clause in the Constitution, an individual can be prosecuted at the federal level, then again at the state level, even for the same criminal acts.

If dual sovereignty applies to a case, a person can even be punished twice  once by the federal government and once by the state  for the same offense.

The State of Texas has argued that it should be allowed to proceed with its prosecution because the federal case ended in a mistrial. The state also argues that the one count the former electrician pleaded guilty to  failure to pay his taxes in a timely manner  is a separate and unrelated offense from the fraud and money laundering charges.

The defendant has argued that, in his case, the state and the federal government are not truly separate entities because they cooperated in the prosecutions.

The Supreme Court has not yet determined if it will hear the case. If it does, the Courts decision is likely to have a significant impact on the dual sovereignty exception to the Double Jeopardy Clause.

Sources:

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers of Broden & Mickelsen

source: http://www.brodenmickelsen.com/blog/scotus-might-hear-double-jeopardy-case/

Social Media Tags:Double Jeopardy Case, Dual Sovereignty Doctrine, SCOTUS Double Jeopardy Case, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers of Broden & Mickelsen

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Muai , HI, US, 06/19/2017 /SubmitPressRelease123/



Dispute Resolution Collaborative, LLC Launches Mediation and Arbitration Office in Maui in collaboration with David R. Johanson of Hawkins Parnell Thackston & Young LLP (Hawkins Parnell).



Dr. Saul Larner has been long known for his coined and accurate term, Settlement is an Art.



This premier dispute resolution firm offers professional mediation and arbitration solutions for marital dissolutions and business, real estate, agriculture, and commercial conflicts. The goal is to help families, businesses, and others overcome their conflicts in future years.



Furthermore, Dispute Resolution Collaborative, LLC structures Hawaiian Asset Protection Trusts with its set of ideas which serve as effective mediation strategies in dividing assets as well.



FOR EVEN GREATER FINANCIAL CONTROL, CONSULT WITH DISPUTE RESOLUTION COLLABORATIVE, LLC REGARDING BOTH PRE-NUPTIAL AND POST-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS, WHICH WILL HELP TO AVOID DISPUTES.



SP Larner Global Dispute Resolution, Mr. Johanson of Hawkins Parnell, and Dispute Resolution Collaborative, LLC strive to resolve conflicts and bring disputed matters to an early conclusion. As highly-skilled mediators and arbitrators, they prepare and communicate effectively with all parties. They also are experienced in asking the appropriate questions to effect the most logical and usually highly creative solutions necessary to enable everyone to leave the mediation with greater than anticipated results.



Importantly, one of the goals is for both parties to move forward amicably and to continue their relationships in the future. In the case of marital dissolution, the main focus is to create a harmonious parenting plan, negotiate a financial settlement agreement that is fair, and provide solutions that are effective. Often, mediation even sometimes results in the couple deciding to continue to stay married.



Mediation is a vital tool in settling most disputes. The key to a successful settlement is the preparation and complete understanding of the proposed resolution by all parties. This includes, without limitation, analyzing the assets and properties in question and having a clear and realistic understanding of ones financial picture before the first mediation session begins. Negotiations can only be effective if they are conducted with the confidence of all parties in that the neutral mediator is totally impartial and respects the confidentiality of all parties.



SP Larner, Mr. Johanson of Hawkins Parnell, and Dispute Resolution Collaborative, LLC also work with foreign national individuals and global firms. They address settlement issues, including currency fluctuations, provide strategies to legally transfer funds into the U.S., and utilize innovative capital and defective grantor trust structures to provide asset protection.



When contemplating a marital dissolution, reality must set in. This includes how property and other assets will be divided as well as the need for a harmonious parenting plan. Here, specialized mediation skills are required to make the transition as smooth as possible.



SP Larner Global Dispute Resolution specializes in high-profile transactions, such as the $50 million Robert Taylor Ranch. Recently, SP Larner mediated a complex patent infringement case for a Chinese manufacturer. The firm mediates difficult cases for high-profile and global individuals and companies.



Please contact Saul Larner of SP Larner Global Dispute Resolution Collaborative. He will cheerfully show you his portfolio of testimonials and credentials. He holds a Ph.D. with specialties in International Economics and Human Resources, an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in International Taxation and a Masters Degree specializing in Real Estate Finance. He frequently receives referrals of clients from law and accounting firms who have found that client issues can only be positively resolved through the mediation process.



SP Larner is a member of various professional organizations including the National Association of Certified Mediators, the Academy of Professional Family Mediators and the Institute of Divorce Financial Analysts. He has written several books and articles and has held classes regarding how to positively resolve conflicts that have been approved by various state bar associations for continuing legal education credits.



Dispute Resolution Collaborative LLC proudly announces their new panel member, David R. Johanson of Hawkins Parnell. He serves as a panel chair arbitrator in complex attorneys fees disputes for the Beverly Hills and Santa Monica Bar Associations. He also has lectured for the University of Southern California Mediation Clinic and serves on a pro bono basis approximately 40-50 times each year as a Temporary Judge for the California Superior Court in Los Angeles County. Mr. Johanson has developed a focus there in handling civil harassment and domestic violence temporary restraining order cases.



With more than 30 years of experience, Mr. Johanson frequently appears on behalf of clients in business and employment-oriented defense litigation before federal and state courts throughout the Mainland and regulatory agencies of all kinds, and has handled tax petitions before the U.S. Tax Court and in dispute resolutions of various kinds. He is the partner-in-charge of the Napa, California office of Hawkins Parnell, and also has offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York City. Mr. Johanson is an effective arbitrator if the parties choose not to mediate their disputes and to have it resolved in a more informal and cost effective manner outside of the court system.



If you are ready to negotiate your financial future, please call (808) 649-8318 in Maui or (310) 867-4840 in Los Angeles, or contact SP Larner via www.SettlementIsAnArt.com or [email protected] for a free one-hour consultation. During this time, you will learn how the mediation process can be most effective as the ideal, logical alternative. You will receive a mediation workbook, and Dr. Larner will address any questions or concerns.





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I may look like I'm posing, but I'm really trying to get into the fetal position and not faint. It was only our second day in Israel. We had such big plans, so much food to eat, so many pictures to take, so much ground to cover. But then it was all thrown off when I got really sick, fainted, and spent part of the night in the emergency room.







The day started simply enough with a drive from Tel Aviv to Kibbutz Maagan Michael. This was the start of Abraham Tours Caesarea, Kibbutz, and Arab Village 2-Day Tour . We spent the morning touring the kibbutz and had lunch in the communal dining room. Afterward, we drove to Jisr az-Zarqa, an Arab fishing village.







I was so excited to explore Israels only Arab village on the water. Despite its location, Jisr az-Zarqa is no resort town. You wouldnt be alone if your first impression of the town made you think it was poor, a bit run down, and maybe even not safe. Jisr az-Zarqa has a lot going against it. The highway that passes by doesnt even have an exit for the town, so if you want to visit, you have to go quite a bit out of the way.







We came to this village because Abraham Tours, along with Juhas Guesthouse , is trying to make Jisr az-Zarqa a tourist attraction and bring it out of poverty and into popularity, similar to what has been done for Nazareth. Progress has already been made. For instance, the people of the town used to burn their trash in the middle of the streets, causing black acrid smoke and the inability to travel through. Now they burn the trash outside of town. Also, when outsiders came to visit, the children used to run away, not being used to seeing strangers in their town. Now the children greet visitors in the street and smile. Dont be surprised if they yell towards you, Jews! Because this is an Arab town a bit off the beaten track, the only other people they know of are Jews, so they think all visitors are Jews.







As we walked along the streets of Jisr az-Zarqa learning more about the town and people, we stopped at a small store for some snacks and drinks. I was starting to feel tired and assumed it was jet lag kicking in. I decided to get a Coke for some sugar and caffeine. I took a few big gulps, but started to feel even funnier.







We continued wandering through the town, leaving the busy main thoroughfare to the quieter neighborhood streets where kids ran around and played ball, where we got inquisitive glances which turned into smiles when we smiled and said hello. We saw new construction amongst the already established homes with laundry hanging to dry. Some little girls who yelled Jews! at us were excited to be part of a selfie with one of our fellow travelers, Jenn.







We took a turn and started heading along a sandy trail towards the water. The trail was leading us to the fishing part of Jisr az-Zarqa. I started to feel hot even though it was cold outside, I was breaking out into a sweat, and I felt slightly dizzy and nauseated.







We were surprised to learn that there are remainders from Roman times here. A significant portion of a Roman aqueduct runs across the shoreline towards the water.



Another Roman remnant is a small piece of a mosaic floor peeking out from the sand. I knelt down, partially to examine the mosaic more closely, but mostly because crouching helped relieve the dizziness and nausea, if just for a moment.





By the time we got to the rocky cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the fishing boats of Jisr az-Zarqa, I knew it was no longer a matter of if I was going to throw up, but of when. I just hoped it would wait until we got back to the guesthouse.







As we started walking down the hill towards the fishing boats and fishermen, I realized I wasnt going to make it. Did I mention we were traveling with a group of nine other people, all of whom we had just met that morning, many of whom would be with us through much of our journey through Israel? They had barely met me. I really wasnt ready to puke in front of them all. And I didnt want to be the cause of their day ending early or messing up anything that was planned.



I finally lost the good fight and had to duck behind a rock mass to relieve my stomach of some of its contents. Or actually, a lot of its contents. Thankfully this was done without our travel mates having to see. Rome came to check on me in the midst of my bout of sickness and I quickly reminded him that beets were part of my lunch before he worried that things were worse than they actually were.







Hoping that would be it, we caught up with the others. Rome explained to our tour guide Genevieve what was going on. She started to provide Rome with walking directions back to Juha's Guesthouse. I tried to assure her I would be okay with a weak smile on my face, when a wave of sickness hit me again. I desperately tried to find a place that would shield me from view, but there was nothing and I found myself doubled over, puking into the sand in front of the others as well as the fishermen sitting along the beach who, just a few seconds earlier, had been enjoying the calming view of the sea.







Genevieve, extremely anxious, offered to call someone from the town to pick us up and drive us back to the guesthouse immediately. We accepted. Not to get too graphic, but I then realized it was imperative I reach a restroom ASAP. There was one in a building on the beach. A concerned Genevieve warned me that it would not have the amenities I was used to, but I didnt care. I was greeted by a small bathroom which became enveloped in complete darkness when I closed the door, equipped with a toilet and a sink, and a spray nozzle in place of toilet paper.







When I emerged, a gentleman had arrived in his car, completely unknown to us, ready to drive us back to the guesthouse. Rome and I got in and I prayed I wouldnt have another incident during the drive. When we pulled up to the guesthouse, thankfully incident free, I pulled out some money and offered it to the gentleman whose name we hadnt even learned. He looked at it, then up at me, shook his head, and said no, he wouldnt take it, he hoped I felt better, and welcome to Jisr az-Zarqa.







The plan for the evening was to be guests of the guesthouse owners for dinner in their home. They would be preparing a traditional Arab dinner for us. There was no way I was going to make it, but I figured with some rest Id be fine, and I wanted to at least see pictures and hear descriptions of the food, so I sent Rome off with the others. I stayed behind and slept, drank a little water, and tried to feel better.





When the group came back from dinner, Rome asked me if I wanted to come out and say goodbye to Genevieve as we would have a different guide in the morning. I pulled on my boots and slowly walked outside. As I was waiting to talk to Genevieve, I started to feel a little woozy and sat down on a rock wall. It just got worse, so I stood up to go back into the guesthouse. I recall stumbling along the porch, weaving back and forth and grabbing at the wall and bamboo shade, and attempting to punch in the code to open the door.





I woke up to my feet being propped up on a chair, and I wondered why people were trying to awake me from my wonderfully deep sleep. As I became more aware, I realized that I was laying on the ground, my head and shoulders on the floor of the guesthouse room, my legs out on the porch resting on the aforementioned chair. Later Rome would tell me that when he ran up, I was frozen on the ground, eyes open, hands and arms clenched.







Genevieve called for an ambulance. While we waited, she made sure Rome gathered our passports and printout of our travel insurance. When the ambulance came, the EMTs took my vitals and started asking questions. They gave me the option of whether or not to go to the hospital, but I said that if they suggested it, I wanted to go. Rome got in the ambulance with me, and Ahmed, the owner of Juhas Guesthouse, followed behind in his car.





This was my first ever ride in an ambulance. The EMT that rode in the back with me struck up a conversation. I learned from him that the Jisr az-Zarqa beach has great tide pools and otters can frequently be spotted in the water.





When we arrived at the emergency room, the EMTs waited with us, as well as Ahmed, until I was finally put into an ER bed. I also had to pay the ambulance bill, which was 485 shekels, or $131.





Caught in the act of taking photos by the ER doctor. The ER doctor came to see me and ordered some blood tests and an IV. Yet another first for me, one I had really hoped to avoid. Ahmed waited a couple hours, but when the doctor told him it might still be a few more hours, he asked us if we were okay with him leaving, and he gave us his phone number so he could come pick us up when I was released.





The doctor determined that I had acquired some sort of stomach bug and that being sick had caused me to become severely dehydrated. Once I felt a little stronger and was able to walk on my own two feet, I was released from the hospital, a little after midnight. We called Ahmed who said he would pick us up in 15 minutes and we paid the hospital bill, which was 1,283 shekels, or $346.





As Ahmed drove us back, we thanked him for everything and told him that all things considered, the hospital experience had been good. He shared with us that it was one of the worst hospitals in Israel, which surprised us. It felt similar to the hospital near our house, where Rome had spent almost a week after his appendectomy





The humble Juha's Guesthouse. The next morning, I joined the others for breakfast and everyone was happy to learn I had returned from the hospital. Ahmed came to check on us, and he had also let Abraham Tours know what had happened, as they called us via his phone to check on me and to offer to take us back to Tel Aviv if we wished. While I was still feeling pretty weak, I really didnt want to miss what was planned for the rest of our time in Israel. So continue on we did and had an amazing trip, though you wont be reading any food posts because I just wasnt able to enjoy food for much of the trip.





When we got home from Israel, it was time to work on getting reimbursed from our World Nomads travel insurance for the medical costs. World Nomads doesnt require that a claim be submitted immediately thankfully, so we were able to wait until we returned home. Once I submitted the claim, I received a request for copies of our round trip itinerary, itemized bill, medical report, and payment documentation. The request that surprised me was that for proof of submitting the medical expenses to my primary medical insurance and their Explanation of Benefits.







I assumed my health insurance wouldnt cover an international medical expense. After all, isnt that what travel insurance is for? Truth be told, it kind of irritated me, but I submitted the expenses to my health insurance company, Universal HealthCare. Imagine my surprise when after a couple weeks I received a response that $429 of the $477 claim would be covered! I submitted the information to World Nomads and in about a week I received a check for the remaining $48.




ELM CREEK  Theres a curious old glass structure right off of Interstate 80 near Elm Creek filled with antique cars.

Catch it at the right time of day, and the central Nebraska sun makes the old building beam at passers-by like a nostalgic road sign. Chevyland USA, a classic car museum, is full of auto history, each steel relic telling its own story.

Look closely and youll find treasures, such as the green 1965 Chevy Duane Earl Pope used as a getaway car during the Big Springs Massacre, one of the deadliest bank robberies in Nebraska history.

Back in the 60s or 70s, somewhere in there, there was a guy who wrote a book on the 60 years of Chevy, Monte Hollertz, owner of Chevyland, said. One night I was not sleepin, and I thought, Well, if hes going to write the book, Im going to start collecting.

It can be hard to pinpoint the Pope getaway car among its car brethren  the relic is tucked away safely among a row of Impalas. Monte, whos been collecting the classic rides since 1976, gives each auto its own dedicated space, telling the story of each old car in an equally unassuming fashion.

I was farming south of Holdrege, and I started collecting and picking all the sport models. No two-doors or sedans in the bunch, Monte said.

Over the years, he has traveled well outside of Nebraska on his journey for Chevys, venturing to Oregon and Kansas where he dug up quite a few of his prized possessions. Monte worked with his sons to restore the old beauties, and even found an old skating rink in Minden to house them.

That original version of Chevyland was in Minden for three or four years, Monte said, before he decided the traffic wasnt what he expected.

Monte did what any industrious farmer would do: He found another piece of land to grow on.

I thought Id come up here on the interstate and let it advertise itself, Monte said. I started looking and found this place. I drove a 55 Chevy and parked it in this driveway and kept track of the people who looked at the car that went by on the interstate.

Satisfied by the number of curious onlookers, Monte headed over to the owners house and asked him to sell it, no questions asked.

The new property, right off of I-80 at Elm Creek at 7245 Buffalo Creek Road, wasnt for sale when Monte found it, but the farmer-turned-car-curator has had to be a salesman to get his hands on some of the more rare automobiles, and quickly convinced the owner to sell him the prime locale.

I think I paid $30,000 for six acres here, Monte said.

Finding the new property was the easy part, though, according to Monte and his wife, Jo.

I didnt know anything of what I had to do, Monte said.

The rules and regulations, Jo said, laughing.

Monte opted to wing it, purchasing a prefabbed building from Oxford, which he placed on the property with windows facing the interstate. One misplaced sand water pump later, and Chevyland USA was officially in business, this time in Elm Creek. Monte kept up with the farm on a full-time basis, and also worked nonstop to get Chevyland USA to start up.

He didnt take over as the head curator of Chevyland USA full time until 1980, when he married Jo.

Monte and I didnt get married until 1980, Jo said. He was still living down on the farm. When we got married, we moved up here and the oldest boy took over the farm.

I always liked cars, Jo said. I learned to like them more after I got here.

The building had only a small kitchen and bedroom for the nights when Monte would rather crash among his cars than drive back to Holdrege when the couple moved in, but with nine kids total, the couple needed more room to spread their wings. They built a cozy little home onto the museum, and have spent the years welcoming the curious.

This has been our home for 37 years, Jo said.

Jos always been a good sport about Montes penchant for collecting, although Monte, now 84, says he has run out of gas when it comes to digging up cars.

I always told him other guys took their wives up and down Main Street, Jo said. Mine took me up and down the back alleys to look for cars.

Finding relics takes a lot of research and a lot of investigating, and its just not something hes up to. Hed rather spend his time watching Fox News or Animal Planet.

Monte isnt sure the exact number of cars in the collection these days  probably 80-something  but the collection has long surpassed being Chevy-exclusive. There are a number of Fords, Audis and Mercedes lined up against their Chevy counterparts, and one may even spot the odd Oldsmobile or Cadillac in the bunch, too.

Out of the 60 years of Chevy, at one time I had 55 of them, Monte said. Now I got probably 10 or 15 different brands of cars in there.

Hes not sure how many Chevys are left back in that collection these days  hes traded some off for other cars that interested him

Thats (number of Chevys) not up here now, Monte said, pointing to his head.

Still, its apparent that whatever the number, its a lot.

Among the collection at Chevyland are several rare cars  including that getaway car, which Pope rented in Salina, Kan., in June 1965. He drove it to the Farmers State Bank in Big Springs where he shot the bank employees during a robbery. Monte displays the rental agreement and news stories about the crime on the dashboard of the old Chevy.

Most of the cars in Montes collection have slightly less morbid histories, though  theyre just cool cars to own, a blast from the auto past.

The Whippet is a very rare one, Jo said. Theres a 32 Chevy Roadster thrown in the collection too, a very rare and very expensive vehicle.

I like the 60s, Jo said. The bigger the body, the better.

At the height of Chevylands popularity, the couple clocked about 100 visitors a day to the museum. They installed a notification system in their home to alert them when curious onlookers drove onto the property, but its been out of order for a few years. Not that it matters much now  its slowed down a lot, his wife said.

The older people who were most interested in the museum really arent around anymore, Monte said, and the younger generation dont get wrapped up about old cars as much.

Now Im 84 years old and I cant do things like I used to, Monte said. His hands and his brain wont cooperate most days, he said, which makes tinkering with his toys a lot more difficult.

The couple also has a lot bigger of a priority  19 great-grandchildren to spoil  so the slower life of the museum hasnt been too hard to get used to. They still welcome visitors to the museum, and Monte still happily conducts the tours, telling visitors about the history of that Chevy getaway car and his other treasures when the odd onlooker stops by.

Weve got it made now because its kind of peaceful, Monte said.
ASHTON  A converted convent in Sherman County is drawing visitors from across the state as part of the 2017 Nebraska Passport Program.

The convent, once home to seven nuns, is now home to the Polish Heritage Center in Ashton, which is one of 80 stops on the passport tour.

The Polish Heritage Center has been taking donations from people across the United Sates since the center officially opened in 2000, museum Manager Phyllis Piechota said. Those donated items stuff the six small main level rooms and three basement level rooms of the center.

Musical instruments line the floor of what was once a bedroom, trinkets fill the front gift shop and polka music hums in the back library where a large banner adorned with a picture of Pope Paul shares the walls with old family portraits of the Beskis, Pawloskis and Baduras, to name a few.

Visitors may also rifle through the many genealogy books and old newspapers stored in the library. In the main display room, tourists are taken back in time with art and hand-beaded costumes from the homeland, and old kitchen utensils and dining ware donated by Polish families.

Piechota especially treasures the art pieces, particularly the mosaics made of amber grain, straw carved pictures and hand-painted eggs, also known as pisanki.

You know, I come here so often and theres always something that I dont remember seeing because theres just so many different things, she added.

Another art piece, carved figures dining during the wigilia, is a representation of Piechotas favorite family memories. The wigilia is a 12-course meatless dinner that Ashton community members have every other year on the first Sunday in December. A narrator takes diners through the significance of each course, Piechota said, which includes fish prepared in different ways, vegetables, elaborate desserts and a beet soup, known as borscht.

Because the Polish Heritage Center is overflowing with artifacts and family memorabilia, the centers board members have built a 100-foot by 60-foot building near the current heritage center to house the items.

We just didnt have enough room, Piechota said. You know, things are situated in places where you cant get around easy enough to really enjoy it.

Half the cost of the new $257,000 building is paid, board treasurer Judene Jakubowski said, but that figure doesnt include the $7,000 for landscaping and plumbing and the additional expense for carpeting and floor tiles. She said the board is installing the flooring. Piechota said when the artifacts are moved to the new building by next spring, the board hopes to sell the current building.

Jakubowski said the remaining cost of the new building was paid with a loan, and the board is continually fundraising to defray that cost. One of their largest fundraisers is the Polish Fest every September. She said the board also received generous donations and memorial funds.

Piechota said its important to keep the Polish heritage of Ashton and its surrounding communities alive.

I think thats one of the ways we can keep the customs and traditions of the Polish people relevant because this whole area of central Nebraska was settled by the Polish and the Germans, she said. And so I think its just important for our children to remember how this got settled and why we are here.

According to the 2000 census, Sherman County was home to the most Polish descendants per capita, Polish Heritage Center board member Larry Molczyk said.

Molczyk also believes knowing ones heritage is important.

I think you have to understand where you came from to know where youre going, he said. If one has a sense of where they came from, its a root, its part of their rootedness, which positively or negatively identify themselves and move forward.

That history is on display for all to enjoy in Ashton, and the Nebraska Passport Tour is helping to bring it center stage. Piechota said about 150 people had their passports stamped at the center in May. The number of visitors nearly equals Ashtons population of 189.

The wonderful thing about the passport, I think, is the fact that people find out theres so many areas they ordinarily wouldnt visit because theres really not a lot to offer, she said. And so with this wed never have so many people without it.
Bernie Sanders was speaking recently to a gathering of like-minded liberals in Chicago. I am often asked by the media and others, How did it come about that Donald Trump, the most unpopular presidential candidate in the modern history of our country, won the election? he said. My answer is that Trump didnt win the election  the Democratic Party lost the election.

True enough. But heres what Sanders and his supporters refuse to admit: Bernie himself was a major reason why the Democrats and Hillary Clinton failed.

Of course Clinton was a poor candidate, with visible scars and an invisible message, who made many unforced errors. It was crazy for a woman who intended to run for president as a defender of middle-class families to take gobs of money from Wall Street.

But Sanders was an irresponsible candidate who advanced an impossible set of proposals that bore little relation to reality. Its both careless and cynical to yell free at every opportunity with absolutely no notion of how to pay for all those goodies. (The Wall Street Journal estimated Sanders proposals would cost $18 trillion.)

The result was to excite Sanders base, especially young and inexperienced voters, and deepen their disillusionment with Clinton, who was burdened with a sense of practicality and responsibility. Sanders aggravated their disdain by indulging his ego, staying in the race long after the outcome was clear and implying that a rigged system designed by establishment mandarins had cheated him out of the nomination. No wonder so many Berniecrats voted for third-party candidates or simply stayed home.

This would all be ancient history, except that Sanders is still singing the same old song. As he said in Chicago, The current model and the current strategy of the Democratic Party is an absolute failure.

But why should Democrats listen to him? After all, he is not a Democrat. Hes a self-proclaimed socialist who ran for the Senate as an independent and still identifies himself that way.

Moreover, while the system is far more polarized than in the past, the rules of arithmetic have not been repealed. The Berniecrat Creed  that the Democrats must shift sharply to the left in order to succeed  is a recipe for disaster.

In the last election, only 26 percent of voters identified as liberals, while 35 percent called themselves conservative and 39 percent moderates. This is not a leftist country, and every time the Democrats have followed that fantasy, they have been crushed.

There are important lessons going forward here for the Democratic Party. As The New York Times reports, the party is facing a widening breach as it prepares for next years elections, a growing tension between the partys ascendant militant wing and Democrats competing in conservative-leaning territory.

A strategy that focuses on energizing the Democratic faithful on the west sides of Los Angeles and Manhattan is not going to retake the Congress in 2018 or challenge Trumps re-election in 2020.

This is all playing out in suburban Atlanta, where Democrats think they have a real chance to capture a House seat vacated by former Rep. Tom Price when he joined Trumps cabinet. The Democratic candidate in the Wednesday contest, Jon Ossoff, is reflecting the district and running as a card-carrying moderate, far from the Sanders mold.

His message to Washington, he said, is about decency and respect and unity, rather than division.
Copies of the Postmedia-owned newspaper National Post are displayed at a hotel in Burnaby, B.C., on Tuesday, January 19, 2016. The National Post newspaper is eliminating its Monday print edition as of July.The newspaper hasn't published on Mondays during the summer months for eight years. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
Miss Kenosha earns Peoples Choice award

Miss Kenosha Kaitlyn Marie Rhey won the Peoples Choice award at Saturdays Miss Wisconsin Scholarship Pageant.

The honor was announced after the pageant at the Miss Wisconsin Coronation Ball.

For over a week prior to the state pageant, the public voted online for a contestant to win the Peoples Choice honor. In winning the award, Rhey, 23, of Kenosha, earned a $600 scholarship.

During a preliminary show Thursday, Rhey won a $500 prize for capturing the John Schultz Memorial Photogenic Award.

Police seek man in carjacking

A woman was reportedly carjacked at gunpoint early Friday morning.

According to Kenosha Police, the woman was in her car in the 3400 block of 52nd Street around 9 a.m. when a man opened the car door and stuck a gun into her midsection, demanding he give her everything.

When she told him she didnt have anything, he reportedly pulled her out of the car and drove off.

Earlier that same morning, OKeefe Automotive, 3314 52nd St., reported an attempted robbery. The description of that suspect matched the one from the woman.

According to the report, the man tried to push his way into the store and a female employee pushed back. The man left.

Teen shot in leg by errant bullet

A 17-year-old boy was shot in the leg around 5 p.m. Friday in the 5000 block of 22nd Avenue.

According to Kenosha Police report, the teen was in the backyard of a friends house when he heard a pop and felt pain in his leg and fell to the ground.

A friend drove him to Kenosha Medical Center, where a bullet entrance and exit wound were found about 3 inches above his ankle.

It was unclear who fired the shot or from where it came.

Fisherman reports gun threat on boat

A man and his 15-year-old-son reported they were threatened by a man with a gun on a nearby boat Friday.

The man and his son were bowfishing from a boat in Southport Marina around 10 p.m. when a nearby boater came out of his docked boat and pointed what looked like handgun at the family, according to the police report.

He told them to lower their weapon, referring to the bow and arrow they were using to fish.

The man, his son and an unidentified woman exited their boat and called the police.

When police confronted the perpetrator, he said it wasnt a gun but a small 3-inch silver flashlight.

The man who was bowfishing did not want to file a formal complaint.

Both parties were warned for their actions  the one man for bowfishing near docked boats and the other man for displaying a handgun.
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President Trump campaigned on repealing and replacing Obamacare. Congress, when campaigning for reelection every two years, promised the same. Yet Congress cant seem to get the job done. First, they needed the House, then the Senate, finally the White House. All delivered to GOP control by the voters. With the reasonable expectation of repeal and replace.

Yet nothing from Congress but a dial tone. The House passed an Obamacare-lite bill, tweaking some of the more onerous parts, but certainly not a repeal. Now repeal and replace wallows in the greatest deliberative body in the world, the U.S. Senate. One Republican Senator, Richard Burr, told the Wall Street Journal, Its unlikely that we will get a health care deal this year. Deliberation but no action.

Just great. The party of stupid is living up to its name. My first response is to ask, Why vote Republican? My second thought is to suggest a new tactic. Why not make the progressive argument for repealing Obamacare? And no I dont mean replacing it with Bernie Sanders Medicare for all.

Using the language of the left, Obamacare is a travesty, worse than Donald Trump, Steve Bannon or Ted Nugent. This language consists of four keywords in the progressive lexicon. Tolerance, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.

American universities have entire offices and departments devoted to these important concepts. For example, my alma mater Cornell has an Office of Diversity and Inclusion. As well as a Department of Sustainability. How does this apply to Obamacare?

Obamacare is intolerant of those who, often by individual choice and effort, are healthy. And choose to spend their money, not on insurance they dont want or need, but instead on goods and service they desire. Call them pro-choice, to borrow another favorite term of the left. Obamacare takes away an individuals right to choose. Unacceptable in the progressive world.

Obamacare limits diversity. Something called the ten essential benefits, coverage that all insurance plans must provide. All plans are the same, monolithic. Much like the all male or all white corporate board rooms that liberals complain about. Why not diversity in insurance? The young newly married couple may want maternity coverage in their plan while the single 55-year-old guy does not? The hypertensive diabetic may want his myriad medications covered while the healthy 25-year-old snowboarder wants only catastrophic coverage in case she crashes into a tree. How about a rallying cry of all insurance plans matter?

Inclusion means no one left out. Obamacare creates narrow networks of physicians and hospitals, leaving many off the insurance plan panels. Many of the best hospitals are out-of-network for Obamacare plans, as are many top physicians. As a result, patients suffer. If they like their doctor, they can not necessarily keep their doctor, despite promises to the contrary. Again, the pro-choice argument but more importantly the personal and professional stigma for healthcare providers being excluded, told to sit in the back of the Obamacare bus. Non-inclusive. Unacceptable.

Lastly the problem of sustainability. Not of Antarctic ice, but of the entire healthcare system. Obamacare is in a death spiral according to many, including Aetnas CEO. Ever increasing premiums and deductibles making insurance unaffordable. Leaving fewer paying into insurance pools, with only the sicker and more expensive patients sharing in a dwindling pot of insurance premiums. Unsustainable for the many insurance companies pulling out of Obamacare. If its unsustainable, what are we leaving to our children and grandchildren?

Common sense, already in short supply in Washington, DC, is unfortunately not part of the repeal and replace discussion. Therefore, why not use the language of the left?

Brian C. Joondeph is an ophthalmologist and can be reached on Twitter @retinaldoctor. This article originally appeared in the Daily Caller.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
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High-stakes standardized testing is an enduring facet of medical education, and the standardized test that is on every medical students mind is the USMLE Step 1. The paramount importance of this test for getting into residency creates a demand for high-quality test preparation materials. Established test prep names like Pathoma, Sketchy Medical, First Aid and UWorld fill that demand in a market consisting of more than 40,000 test takers worldwide each year. The ubiquity of these products among medical students is an indication of their utility in preparing for Step 1. The early adopters of new test prep resources can pull away from the pack in test performance. Subsequent years, however, lead to an ever-increasing saturation of these products among the general medical school population as word of their effectiveness spreads. Over the course of a few years, a high-yield resource can change from something that gives a few students an edge to a resource that is essentially required reading for students looking to keep up.

This test prep arms race is one possible factor in the rising national average test scores each year. The average test score for the first time U.S. and Canadian test takers increased from 221 in 2009 to 228 in 2015. The average Step 1 score of those who matched into plastic surgery, one of the most competitive specialties, reached 250 in 2016. The proliferation of high-quality preparation materials fuels the increases in step scores as students compete for desired specialties and residency positions. It is hard to blame students for looking for any way to gain an edge on the competition: failure to match into a chosen field has career-changing and life-altering consequences.

Increasing Step 1 scores are only one potential side effect of the test prep arms race. The high-yield nature of test prep resources, combined with the outsized importance of the Step 1 exam, lead some students to rely largely or solely on these resources at the expense of their medical schools curriculum in an attempt to perform better on Step 1. Reasoning that the main purpose of the pre-clinical years of medical school is to prepare for Step 1, these students forego the lectures and material they pay tens of thousands of dollars in tuition for and instead rely on self-study through the medical curriculum found in Step 1 test preparation materials. The transition to Pass/Fail grading and optional lecture attendance at some medical schools further facilitates this movement away from traditional medical school learning to the new-age method of reliance on outside resources.

Does it matter that these students are being educated, not by a nationally accredited medical school, but instead by unaccredited, for-profit test prep companies? The point that everything in medicine begins to matter is the point at which patient care is affected. Is there a significant difference in the clinical acumen of traditionally educated students and those who have adopted this new-age form of medical education? This is a difficult question to answer, mostly because a good way to test for clinical ability remains to be found. On its face, however, it seems like the answer should be that it does matter who is educating medical students, or else why would anyone bother accrediting medical schools in the first place?

If reliance on test prep materials is found to be a problem, then perhaps a change needs to be made to the structure of the Step 1 exam. Modifying the content of the exam might be enough to eliminate the need for test prep materials altogether. Students could focus on what their professors are trying to teach them rather than on what is considered high-yield for exam purposes but low-yield for practicing medicine. However, if current trends continue, Step 1 scores will continue to rise, test prep materials will continue to proliferate, and future physicians will continue to receive their education from unaccredited sources.

Christopher Warne is a medical student.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
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A raider jailed for robbing a post office in Leighlinbridge has had his prison sentence increased following an appeal by prosecutors.

Keith Chrystal (28), with an address on Neilstown Drive, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, had pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to robbery, assault causing harm, possession of an imitation firearm, unlawful use of a vehicle and criminal damage arising out of an incident at Leighlinbridge Post Office on March 3, 2016.

He was given an effective two-and-a-half year jail term by Judge Carmel Doyle on July 20, 2016.

The Director of Public Prosecutions successfully sought a review of Chrystal's sentence today (Monday) on grounds that it was unduly lenient. He was accordingly resentenced to an effective term of four years imprisonment with the final six months suspended.

Giving judgment in the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice John Edwards, said Postmaster Art O'Connor was working in his post office premises as normal on the date in question.

He went into a back room momentarily and on his return to the shop floor he observed two raiders wearing balaclavas. One was carrying what appeared to be a firearm and the other a hammer.

Both raiders issued threats to Mr O'Connor, broke up the cash register and smashed CCTV equipment.

A sum of 6,856 was stolen. At one stage Mr O'Connor tried to resist which resulted in him receiving a blow to the head with either the imitation firearm or the hammer.

Chrystal was subsequently located hiding in a ditch along a river bank where he was arrested and a realistic imitation firearm was later recovered nearby. A car stolen days earlier had been used in the raid, the judge said.

He made admissions and identified himself as the person who had the imitation firearm.

He was 27 at the time of the offence, was married with two children and had 50 previous convictions including three convictions for burglary, four for theft and one for attempted robbery among others, the judge said.

He had been addicted to heroin and alcohol at the time of the offence but was now clean and was getting on well in prison.

Mr Justice Edwards said the Court of Appeal agreed with Conor O'Doherty BL, for the DPP, that the sentencing judge afforded too much discount overall for the plea of guilty and mitigating circumstances.

He said the discounts for each count were excessive overall and represented a substantial departure from the norm.

Mr Justice Edwards, who sat with Mr Justice George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Edwards, imposed an effective jail term of three-and-a-half years.
If youre retiring before age 65, youll want to take a second look before turning on any sources of taxable income, including pensions or IRA withdrawals. Thats because you might jeopardize your ability to qualify for incredibly cheap health insurance, as well as generous out-of-pocket cost subsidies.

I have seen early retirees squander untold sums by not knowing about this, money that could have been used to support their retirement.

Although there is political uncertainty surrounding health insurance  including a legal challenge on cost-sharing reductions by the House of Representatives (opens in new tab) thats still up in the air  the subsidies are slated to survive for at least a few more years under the House plan, as I will explain below. In addition, with health care reform stalling out, the likelihood is growing that the status quo will largely prevail.

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The Basics

Under current law, when you sign up for health insurance on the exchanges (assuming you make too much to be on Medicaid), you may qualify for two forms of subsidies:

A tax credit on your health insurance premiums if your household income is under 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) if your household income is under 250% of the FPL, and you sign up for a Silver plan.

According to 2017 HHS guidelines (opens in new tab), 400% of the FPL is $64,960 for a married couple and $48,240 for singles, however the figures are a little higher for residents of Alaska and Hawaii. Even if you have a high level of assets, youll most likely have enough levers at your disposal to keep your income under the limit. After all, you can choose when to commence pension and Social Security benefits, when to trigger capital gains, whether to take IRA withdrawals, etc. The more youve saved outside of tax-deferred accounts, the easier this will be.

The Premium Tax Credit

The premium tax credit applies to those whose incomes are between 100% and 400% of the FPL, which would be from $12,060 to $48,240 for singles and $16,240 to $64,960 for married couples. (Note: The lower boundary is 138% if you live in a state that expanded Medicaid, because essentially youd qualify for Medicaid below that and therefore would not be eligible for subsidies.) This credit can be applied against your premiums, reducing your monthly health insurance bill.

The credits are targeted to keep your premiums below a certain percentage of your income. For a couple at 150% of the FPL (which would be $24,360), for example, a basic Silver plan would cost roughly 4% of their income. In dollar terms, this works out to combined premiums of about $82 per month.

There are a number of free online tools to help estimate your credits, including the Kaiser Family Foundation calculator (available at http://www.kff.org/interactive/subsidy-calculator/ (opens in new tab)).

Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)

If you can keep your income to between 100% and 250% of the FPL  which would be from $12,060 to $30,015 for singles and from $16,240 to $40,600 for couples  you can also qualify for reductions in your deductible, coinsurance and out-of-pocket maximum, known as Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs). Again, just like with premium tax credits, the lower boundary is 138% in states that expanded Medicaid. But unlike the premium credits, which apply to all plans, the CSRs apply only to Silver plans.

These CSRs can amount to substantial savings annually. For example, a couple at 150% of the FPL (or $24,360) could see their out-of-pocket maximum drop from $14,300 to $4,700. The reductions in deductibles and coinsurance vary by plan.

How to Make It Work

To maximize your subsidies, if you are retiring before age 65, when Medicare kicks in, evaluate whether you can defer any sources of income. In the meantime, youll need to tap other assets, such as Roth IRAs or non-retirement accounts.

By way of example, consider a 62-year-old couple with $35,000 of household income (216% of the FPL). The husband just retired and can begin receiving a $30,000 pension. If he defers the pension to age 65, the benefit increases to $35,000 per year.

In this case, he would be better off deferring the pension, since their current income level allows them to qualify for the following subsidies (assuming they live in an average cost area):

A credit of $16,982 toward their health insurance premiums each year until Medicare begins at age 65.

Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs), if they choose a Silver plan, which could reduce their out-of-pocket costs by thousands of dollars.

Had the husband commenced his pension at age 62, he would have lost roughly $17,000 in premium credits, plus the CSRs. Including the taxes on the pension benefits, turning on the pension at 62 would have cost them nearly as much as the pension was worth!

From age 62 to 65, the couple would need to tap non-taxable assets to cover their living expenses. Upon reaching age 65, their coverage would switch to Medicare, at which point they could safely turn on his (now increased) pension benefits.

Important Details

Household income is defined as your Adjusted Gross Income plus municipal bond income, untaxed Social Security benefits and foreign income. This means you wont be able to reduce includable income simply by moving your portfolio into tax-free municipal bonds.

A few other important points:

The premium tax credit is a rare example of a cliff benefit, where exceeding the limit by $1 would cost you the entire credit. If your income is close to the 400% cutoff, be sure to plan very carefully in order to avoid losing thousands of dollars in subsidies. If your income is below 100% of the FPL (138% in certain states), you will go on Medicaid, which for many is not a desirable outcome because of potentially longer wait times for patients and fewer participating doctors from which to choose. If you retire and have COBRA or a retiree health plan available to you, you can still qualify for the subsidies if you decline the coverage and buy your own instead (see the IRS website for details (opens in new tab) ).

What About Health Care Reform?

Finally, how will the American Health Care Act (H.R. 1628) affect all of this (opens in new tab)? First of all, its unknown how the Senates version of the bill will look, but it appears they are treading more cautiously than the House when it comes to rolling back benefits.

Even if the House bill passes in its current form, the tax credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions are available until 2020, although the tax credit in 2019 will be slightly reduced for some people by up to 2% of their MAGI (see sections 131 and 202 of the Act (opens in new tab)).

Youll want to keep an eye on political developments, but for now it appears the subsidies will exist for at least a few more years, and potentially longer. You would be wise to plan accordingly.

Yoder Wealth Management does not provide tax advice, and cannot vouch for or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sites such as those linked in this article.
By Alastair Macdonald | BRUSSELS

Brexit Secretary David Davis starts negotiations in Brussels on Monday that will set the terms on which Britain leaves the European Union and determine its relationship with the continent for generations to come.

Almost a year to the day since Britons shocked themselves and their neighbors by voting on June 23 to cut loose from their main trading partner, and nearly three months since Prime Minister Theresa May locked them into a two-year countdown to Brexit in March 2019, almost nothing about the future is clear.

Even May's own immediate political survival is in doubt, 10 days after she lost her majority in an election.

Davis, who unlike May has long campaigned to leave the EU, will meet chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, a former French minister, at the European Commission's Berlaymont headquarters at 11 a.m. (5 a.m. ET). They are due to give a joint news conference after talks among their teams lasting seven hours.

Officials on both sides play down expectations for what can be achieved in one day. EU diplomats hope this first meeting, and a Brussels summit on Thursday and Friday where May will encounter - but not negotiate with - fellow EU leaders, can improve the atmosphere after some spiky exchanges.

"Now, the hard work begins," Davis said, adding he wanted a deal that worked for both sides.

"These talks will be difficult at points, but we will be approaching them in a constructive way."

Barnier, a keen mountaineer, spent the weekend in his native Alps "to draw the strength and energy needed for long walks".

Davis's agreement to Monday's agenda led some EU officials to believe that May's government may at last coming around to Brussels' view of how negotiations should be run.

WHICH BREXIT?

May's election debacle has revived feuding over Europe among Conservatives that her predecessor David Cameron hoped to end by calling the referendum and leaves EU leaders unclear on her plan for a "global Britain" which most of them regard as pure folly.

While "Brexiteers" have strongly backed May's proposed clean break with the single market and customs union, finance minister Philip Hammond and others have this month echoed calls by businesses for less of a "hard Brexit" and retaining closer customs ties.

With discontent in europhile Scotland and troubled Northern Ireland, which faces a new EU border across the divided island, Brexit poses new threats to the integrity of the United Kingdom.

It will test the ingenuity of thousands of public servants racing against the clock to untangle 44 years of EU membership before Britain is out, 649 days from now, on March 30, 2019. For the officials sitting down on Monday, at least on the EU side, a major worry is Britain crashing out into a limbo, with no deal.

For that reason, Brussels wants as a priority to guarantee rights for 3 million EU citizens in Britain and be paid tens of billions of euros it says London will owe on its departure.

With a further million British expatriates in the EU, May too wants a deal on citizens' rights, though the two sides are some way apart. Agreeing to pay a "Brexit bill" may be more inflammatory.

Brussels is also resisting British demands for immediate talks on a future free trade arrangement. The EU insists that should wait until an outline agreement on divorce terms, ideally by the end of this year. In any case, EU officials say, London no longer seems sure of what trade arrangements it will ask for.

But Union leaders, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, are also determined not to make concessions to Britain that might encourage others to follow.

When 52 percent of British voters opted for Brexit, some feared for the survival of a Union battered by the euro crisis and divided in its response to chaotic immigration. The election of the fervently europhile Macron, and his party's sweep of the French parliament on Sunday, has revived optimism in Brussels.

(Editing by Andrew Roche)
By Babak Dehghanpisheh | BEIRUT

Iran fired missiles on Sunday into eastern Syria, aiming at the bases of militant groups it holds responsible for attacks in Tehran which left 18 dead last week, Iran's Tasnim news agency reported.

Iranian Revolutionary Guards launched the mid-range ground-to-ground missiles from western Iran into the Deir al Zour region of eastern Syria, killing a "large number" of terrorists and destroying their equipment and weapons, it said.

The missiles targeted the "headquarters and gathering centers of Takfiri terrorists supporting and building car bombs", it said.

Reuters could not independently verify the report.

Military leaders and officials in Iran, a predominantly Shi'ite country, often refer to Sunni Muslim radicals as Takfiris.

The Revolutionary Guards are fighting in Syria against militant groups who oppose President Bashar al-Assad.

The attack last week, which included shootings and at least one suicide bombing, was on Iran's parliament and the shrine of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic.

"The spilling of any pure blood will not go unanswered," the Revolutionary Guards said in the statement quoted by Tasnim.

Islamic State issued a statement claiming responsibility for the Tehran attack.

Senior Iranian officials, however, have pointed a finger at Saudi Arabia, Iran's Sunni regional rival.

(Editing by Andrew Roche)
BUENOS AIRES, June 19 (Reuters) - Argentina has another $2.6 billion in foreign currency-denominated debt to be issued before the end of the year, Finance Minister Luis Caputo told reporters on Monday after the government sold its first-ever 100-year bond. The government is now planning on issuing a total of $12.65 billion in foreign currency bonds this year, up from a previously planned $10 billion, Caputo said. (Reporting by Luc Cohen; Editing by Jonathan Oatis)

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.
By Alexandria Sage

SAN FRANCISCO, June 19 (Reuters) - Canadian auto supplier Magna International Inc will produce BMW's new 5-series plug-in hybrid at its Austrian factory, the company said on Monday, part of a strategy to produce electric cars on a contract basis for global automakers.

The BMW 530 plug-in hybrid will be manufactured beginning this summer at Magna's plant in Graz, Austria, where it already plans to produce Jaguar's I-PACE SUV beginning in early 2018. Global automakers and their suppliers are investing heavily in fully-electric and gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles. Consumer demand is still low versus that for gasoline engine vehicles, but companies are beginning to offer more choices to respond to government mandates for greater sales of vehicles that emit little or no carbon dioxide, and prepare for a future experts believe will be dominated by electric vehicles.

Rival tier-one auto supplier Continental AG , for example, said in April it was increasing spending by 300 million euros ($334.68 million) on new products such as charging systems and battery management components related to electric vehicles. Magna, North America's largest automotive supplier and the third globally, is alone among the top auto suppliers to perform contract manufacturing for carmakers. Its Austrian plant can produce about 200,000 cars per year. Magna is currently building a new paint shop in Slovenia due to increased demand.

A Magna spokeswoman would not comment on a statement by the Slovenian government in March that the auto supplier would potentially invest up to 1.24 billion euros in the country, including a car plant with capacity of 100,000 to 200,000 vehicles per year. Having contract manufacturing in its portfolio creates a niche for the company as automakers slowly bring more electrified vehicles to market over the next decade. For automakers, outsourcing the assembly can be an advantage on low-volume models to minimize capital expenditures and avoid tying up their own production lines.

Swamy Kotagiri, Magna's chief technology officer, said he sees contract manufacturing of electric vehicles as a "near-term opportunity" for the company, given that by 2025, 40 to 50 percent of all vehicles produced will include some electrification elements.

"We are setting up knowing the penetration will be higher."

Magna has also produced non-electric cars at its Austrian facility, including BMW's Mini Countryman and Mercedes-Benz' luxury G-Wagen SUV.

Last month, Magna raised its full-year sales forecast on higher demand. ($1 = 0.8964 euros)

(Reporting By Alexandria Sage; Editing by Andrew Hay)
BRASILIA, June 19 (Reuters) - Brazil's Gol Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA , the country's largest domestic airline, said on Monday it expects its 2017 EBITDA margins to increase to between 12 and 14 percent from 11 to 13 percent. The airline said in a filing that the upward revision is due to a smaller than expected increase in gasoline costs given a smaller increase in projected oil prices.

(Reporting by Sao Paulo newsroom; Editing by Sandra Maler)

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, June 19 (Reuters) - Britain's Co-operative Bank said it is in advanced talks with existing investors over a rescue plan as the struggling lender seeks a solution that would ward off the need for state intervention.

The bank said on Monday that it also continues to pursue a sale process and is in talks with the Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority after struggling to meet its regulatory capital requirements.

The lender said in a statement it "is in advanced discussions with a group of existing investors with a view to a prospective equity capital raise and liability management exercise."

Co-operative Bank, which put itself up for sale in February, nearly collapsed in 2013 after losses from problem real estate loans and has been struggling to rebuild its financial health.

(Reporting By Andrew MacAskill; Editing by Rachel Armstrong)
By Krisztina Than

BUDAPEST, June 19 (Reuters) - Central European stock markets rose on Monday following a convincing parliamentary majority for President Emmanuel Macron in France which helped boost investor sentiment across Europe.

Czech stocks gained around 1 percent putting the PX index just above the psychological level of 1,000 points.

Komercni Banka shares led the rise, gaining 1.9 percent, and rebounding after hitting their lowest since February last week after the central bank put higher capital requirements on banks. Hungarian stocks also jumped 1 percent, with OTP shares gaining 1.3 percent by 0838 GMT and oil and gas group MOL shares also rising as much as 1.6 percent.

"These gains in stocks are partly due to Macron's win ...sentiment is positive as Asian stock markets also look good," Zoltan Varga, an analyst at brokerage Equilor said.

He said shares of drug firm Richter also had room to rise further towards 7,600 forints per share from 7,241 forints on Monday, after it rose to historic highs last week.

Central European bourses have soared to new highs this year helped by a strong performance of the region's economies, and good prospects for this year and next.

Riding the positive sentiment, Hungarian road transport firm Waberer's International launched an initial public offering (IPO) in Budapest on Monday, in which it plans to raise about 45 million euros in capital to help finance its purchase of Polish peer Link. Polish stocks also gained 1.1 percent in early trade.

Meanwhile, currencies across the region were little changed.

The Serbian dinar, which hit 17-month highs against the euro last week, gained a further 0.15 percent on Monday.

The dinar is mainly helped by fiscal reforms and to some extent also the nomination of a new prime minister Ana Brnabic, who is seen as business-friendly. A dealer with a Belgrade-based bank said the dinar "was bolstered by seasonal demand, lending in dinars, more euros from Serbs working abroad and because overall good state fiscal performance."

The fundamental support to the dinar is the fiscal reforms which secured a budget surplus worth 1.2 percent of GDP in the first quarter of 2017 instead of a deficit agreed with the International Monetary Fund. CEE MARKETS SNAPSH AT 1019 CET

OT

CURRENCIES

Latest Previo Daily Change

us

bid close change in

2017 Czech crown 26.225 26.192 -0.12% 2.98%

0 5 Hungary 307.80 307.77 -0.01% 0.33% forint 00 50 Polish zloty 4.2145 4.2092 -0.13% 4.49% Romanian leu 4.5825 4.5836 +0.02 -1.04%

% Croatian 7.3970 7.3977 +0.01 2.14% kuna % Serbian 121.82 122.00 +0.15 1.26% dinar 00 00 % Note: daily calculated previo close 1800 change from us at CET

STOCKS

Latest Previo Daily Change

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close change in

2017 Prague 1000.2 990.77 +0.95 +8.53

2 % % Budapest 35870. 35512. +1.01 +12.0

68 47 % 9% Warsaw 2327.1 2304.5 +0.98 +19.4

1 0 % 7% Bucharest 8469.6 8467.6 +0.02 +19.5

3 7 % 4% Ljubljana 782.74 784.23 -0.19% +9.08

% Zagreb 1855.9 1857.8 -0.11% -6.96%

1 7 Belgrade 707.18 710.41 -0.45% -1.42% Sofia 685.68 685.12 +0.08 +16.9

% 2%

BONDS

Yield Yield Spread Daily

(bid) change vs change

Bund in Czech spread Republic 2-year 0.024 0.063 +068b +4bps

ps 5-year -0.02 0.018 +038b +1bps

ps 10-year 0.946 0.051 +066b +5bps

ps Poland 2-year 1.934 -0.007 +259b -3bps

ps 5-year 2.573 -0.045 +297b -5bps

ps 10-year 3.157 -0.013 +287b -2bps

ps

FORWARD RATE AGREEMENT

3x6 6x9 9x12 3M

interb

ank Czech Rep <PR 0.34 0.42 0.51 0

IBOR=> Hungary <BU 0.19 0.22 0.28 0.15

BOR=> Poland <WI 1.75 1.765 1.792 1.73

BOR=> Note: FRA are for ask quotes prices ********************************************************* *****

(Additional reporting by Jason Hovet in Prague and Aleksandar Vasovic in Belgrade; Editing by)
Tahoe Resources Inc. (TSX: THO, NYSE: TAHO) says that a road blockage by protestors near its Escobal silver mine in Guatemala has not affected output guidance for the year. The company reports that a group of protestors near Casillas has been blocking the primary road that connects Guatemala City to Escobal. Protests appear to be related to a variety of issues, including what the company says are unfounded claims that mining at Escobal is causing seismic activity more than 20 kilometers away. Tahoe says shipments and supplies have been delayed, but financial performance should be unaffected. "I want to assure shareholders that the roadblock has not affected our guidance for the year, says Ron Clayton, president and chief executive officer of Tahoe Resources. Our operations are performing well and we anticipate that our performance at mid-year will be well within expectations relative to our guidance. However, the delay affects our partner communities and former land owners as well as our employees and suppliers since royalties, wages and fees may be delayed as a result. We are working diligently to engage government and community leaders to resolve the situation." Tahoes website describes Escobal as one of the largest silver mines in the world, with 2016 output of 21.2 million ounces of concentrate.

By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com

Kirkland Lake Gold Announces Management Appointments

Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd. (TSX: KL) announces several appointments on its management team. Pierre Rocque has been named vice president of Canadian operations, while Ian Holland becomes vice president of Australian operations. Mark Utting has been appointed vice president for investor relations, and Brian Hagan has been named vice president for health, safety and the environment. Both Pierre and Ian are bringing extensive experience and expertise to their new roles and are integrally familiar with our Canadian and Australian operations, respectively, says Tony Makuch, president and chief executive officer. Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd. is a mid-tier gold producer targeting 530,000 to 570,000 ounces in Canada and Australia.
ABU DHABI/HAMBURG, June 19 (Reuters) - Iran exported a 35,000 tonne cargo of wheat to Oman last week, traders said on Monday.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani had said in September that the country was aiming to start exporting wheat soon after a good 2016 crop.

However, traders did not expect significant volumes to flow from the country.

"For the time being only one cargo of milling wheat has been traded to Oman," a European trader said.

"But because Iranian wheat is not graded, and with the current low prices of wheat from other more attractive origins, it is very unlikely that Iran will be able to sell more significant volumes."

Iran has been a major wheat importer in recent years as the country aimed to guarantee local food supplies, although its needs have varied due to erratic domestic production.

But Iran's Agriculture Ministry said last year that 4.2 million tonnes of wheat had been bought from domestic farmers in state-sponsored purchases, a 20 percent increase from the same period in the previous year.

(Reporting by Maha El Dahan and Michael Hogan, editing by Louise Heavens)
OSLO, June 19 (Reuters) - A Norwegian government-appointed commission will present its long awaited proposals for central bank reform on June 23, the Finance Ministry said on Monday. The group is also expected to present proposals on the management of Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest with assets of $960 billion.

(Reporting by Terje Solsvik, editing by Gwladys Fouche)

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.
BUCHAREST, June 19 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Romanian financial markets on Monday.

DEBT TENDER

Romanian debt managers aim to sell 500 million lei ($122.20 million) worth of April 2024 treasury bonds.

RULING SOCIAL DEMOCRATS

Romania's ruling leftists filed a no-confidence motion in parliament on Sunday against their prime minister, Sorin Grindeanu, escalating a conflict which government critics say reflects internal rifts over anti-corruption policy. NATO

The United States is concerned about possible Russian incursions along NATO's Baltic borders during large Russian military exercises in September and will send more troops to the area, the commander of U.S. troops in Europe said on Friday. CEE MARKETS

The dinar hit 17-month highs against the euro, helped by Serbia's reforms to improve revenue collection, which may yield a credit rating upgrade from Standard & Poor's on Friday, while other Central European currencies also firmed. LABOUR COSTS

Hourly labour costs in Romania rose by 17.2 percent on the year in the first quarter, the biggest rise in the European Union, Eurostat data showed. Ziarul Financiar

NON-PERFORMING LOANS

Romania's tax authority ANAF ran an inspection of banks and found they had sold non-performing loans for very small amounts, deciding not to accept tax exemptions in some cases. Ziarul Financiar

For the long-term Romanian diary, click on For emerging markets economic events, click on For an index of all diaries, click on For other related news, double click on: --------------------------------------------------------------- Romanian equities RO-E E.Europe equities .CEE Romanian money RO-M Romanian debt RO-D Eastern Europe EEU All emerging markets EMRG Hot stocks HOT Stock markets STX Market debt news DBT Forex news FRX For real-time index quotes, double click on: Bucharest BETI Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX ----------------------------------------------------------------
MOSCOW, June 19 (Reuters) - Russia is issuing two tranches of U.S. dollar-denominated Eurobonds, two sources familiar with the transaction told Reuters on Monday, adding that the order book would be closed on Tuesday. The yield guidance for a 10-year Eurobond is 4.0-4.5 percent and for a 30-year paper is at 5.0-5.5 percent, the sources said.

(Reporting by Kira Zavyalova; Writing by Dmitry Solovyov; editing by Maria Kiselyova)

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.
HANOI, June 19 (Reuters) - Following is a snapshot of Vietnamese dong exchange rates in the official and unofficial markets, indicative SJC gold prices in Hanoi and interbank offered rates at 0440 GMT.

June 19 USD/VND mid-point 22,417 USD/VND interbank 22,689/22,752 USD/VND unofficial 22,700/22,730 SJC gold (mln dong/tael) 36.17/36.39

Interbank offered rates Overnight 2.0-2.5

1 week 2.4-2.7

1 month 3.3-3.7

3 months 4.1-4.5

NOTES: As of Jan. 4, 2016 the State Bank of Vietnam has begun setting the mid-point rate on a daily basis, allowing dollar/dong transactions to move in a band of +/- 3 percent around the mid point. The dong's exchange rate against other currencies is not restricted by a band. Interbank offered rates are the latest indicative bid/ask prices, quoted from market sources.

One tael is equivalent to 37.5 grams or 1.21 troy ounces. SJC gold prices are quoted by state-owned Saigon Jewelry Co.

For more interbank rate fixings released at 0400 GMT, click on .

For Vietnam market overview click on: Vietnam's bonds market auctions: Bonds auction results: (Compiled by Hanoi Newsroom; Editing by Biju Dwarakanath)
By Steve Gorman

U.S. student Otto Warmbier, who was imprisoned in North Korea for 17 months before being returned home in a coma less than a week ago, has died in a Cincinnati hospital, his family said in a statement on Monday.

"Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," the family said in a statement following Warmbier's death at 2:20 p.m. EDT (1820 GMT) at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

His family has said that Warmbier, 22, had lapsed into a coma in March 2016, shortly after he was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in North Korea.

He was arrested, according to North Korean media, for trying to steal an item bearing a propaganda slogan.

North Korea released Warmbier last week, saying he was being freed "on humanitarian grounds."

The University of Virginia student's father, Fred Warmbier, said last week that his son had been "brutalized and terrorized by the Pyongyang government and that the family disbelieved North Korea's story that his son had fallen into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill.

Doctors who examined Otto Warmbier after his release said there was no sign of botulism in his system.

Warmbier was freed after the U.S. State Department's special envoy on North Korea, Joseph Yun, traveled to Pyongyang and demanded the student's release on humanitarian grounds, capping a flurry of secret diplomatic contacts, a U.S. official said last week.

Tensions between the United States and North Korea have been heightened by dozens of North Korean missile launches and two nuclear bomb tests since the beginning of last year. Pyongyang has also vowed to develop a nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile capable of hitting the U.S. mainland.

Susan Thornton, the U.S. acting assistant secretary of state for East Asia, said earlier on Monday that the United States was concerned for the welfare of the three other U.S. citizens still held in North Korea - Korean-Americans Tony Kim, Kim Dong Chul and Kim Hak Song.

(Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by David Alexander in Washington; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
LONDON, June 19 (Reuters) - Financial firms in Britain must submit applications by July 3 for licences for sweeping new European Union securities rules that will come into effect from 2018, the Financial Conduct Authority said on Monday.

Although Britain is due to leave the EU in 2019, British regulators have said that firms must still implement the new rules, known as MiFID II, on time.

Without full compliance, it would be much harder for Britain to obtain a trading deal with Brussels on continued access to EU financial markets after Brexit.

The new rules aim to increase transparency requirements in stock, bond and commodities markets, applying lessons from the 2008 financial crisis

"Firms who need to change their regulatory permissions as a result of MiFID II should submit a complete application for authorisation or a variation of permission now, to ensure that we can we determine it before MiFID II takes effect," the FCA said in a statement.

"To be sure that we can determine an application in time for 3 January 2018, it needs to be complete by 3 July 2017."

There is no guarantee that late applications will be processed in time, the FCA said.

The MiFID rule allow financial firms such as banks and trading companies to serve customers across the EU from a base in Britain.

The FCA said that firms operating without MiFID II licences by January next year would face sanctions.

(Reporting by Huw Jones. Editing by Jane Merriman)
* May new home prices +0.7 pct m/m vs +0.7 pct in April

* Yearly growth in May +10.4 pct, while April was +10.7 pct

* Hottest property markets "basically stable" in May - NBS

* Unrestricted smaller markets help fuel price growth - Analysts

(Adds detail, quotes, context)

By Yawen Chen and Ryan Woo

BEIJING, June 19 (Reuters) - Home prices levelled off in China's biggest cities in May but continued to climb nationwide, indicating demand remains resilient despite a series of government measures to keep the market from overheating.

Firm price gains highlight the challenge Chinese authorities face in calming a frothy market without disrupting the economy, in which real estate is a major driver of growth.

Economists say the pace of price growth across different market tiers clearly shows a passing of the baton from the centre to the regions. They also fret over still-rising prices against an already high base, saying upward price pressure remains.

"While a moderation in price growth in first- and second-tier cities shows the curbs had some effects, we must note that prices are still rising with new unit prices at record high levels," said Sam Xie, head of research at property services provider CBRE China.

"We expect more cities to impose curbs in the future."

Average new home prices in China's 70 major cities rose 0.7 percent in May from the previous month, in line with April and remaining the quickest gain since October, Reuters calculated from an official survey out on Monday.

Compared with a year ago, new home prices rose 10.4 percent in May, easing from a 10.7 percent gain in April, Reuters calculated from National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data.

Policymakers have prioritised stabilising an overheated market ahead of a Communist Party reshuffle later this year, reiterating the need to avoid dramatic price volatility that could threaten the financial system and harm social stability.

The housing bureau in Guangdong province's Qingyuan city said last week prices for pre-sold new units must be sold at no more than 5 percent higher or no more than 15 percent lower than in similar projects in the area in the past month, effectively setting a price cap and floor to stabilise the market.

The NBS said price growth for new homes in China's 15 most overheated cities - mainly provincial capitals with the most stringent curbs - has remained "basically stable" from the previous month as city-based control measures continued to take effect.

Prices for new homes in China's biggest cities such as Beijing and Shanghai stopped climbing in May on a monthly basis, while prices fell 0.6 percent in Shenzhen, the fastest seen in three months.

Compared to a year ago, Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen prices still grew 13.5 percent, 11 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively.

The actions of authorities, who also stressed the need to actively push for inventory destocking in smaller cities experiencing a housing glut, have spread investor activity more broadly rather than halting it outright.

Investors, banned from the hottest markets, are increasingly looking inland, driving up prices in more remote, smaller cities with fewer buying restrictions, leading to a surprise pick-up in May sales. For example, Bengbu, a mid-sized city in central China's Anhui province, topped the list in May, with prices of new units rising 3.4 percent on-month, compared to a 2.2 percent gain in April.

Price growth in smaller third-tier cities rose to 0.9 percent in May from April's 0.8 percent, CBRE's Xie said. The Statistics Bureau does not release price index data by market tiers.

Central bank data published last Wednesday showed Chinese banks extended more credit than expected in May, with home loans expanding even as policymakers struggled to rein in riskier borrowing without impeding economic growth. Household loans, mostly mortgages, rose to 610.6 billion yuan in May from 571 billion yuan in April, accounting for 55 percent of total new loans last month, up from 52 percent in April, the data showed.

But analysts say new tightening measures introduced since mid-March have started taking some heat out of the market, and property investment is likely to have peaked following a sharp drop in sales because of such curbs.

Indeed, annual growth in China's real estate investment slowed in May, the first fall-off in three months, taking a toll on new developments. New construction starts almost halved from the previous month, official data showed last Wednesday.

(Reporting by Yawen Chen and Ryan Woo; Editing by Eric Meijer)
(Adds finance minister comments, new 2017 foreign currency debt target, paragraphs 3-4)

By Luc Cohen and Dion Rabouin

BUENOS AIRES/NEW YORK, June 19 (Reuters) - Argentina sold $2.75 billion of a hotly demanded 100-year bond in U.S. dollars on Monday, just over a year after emerging from its latest default, according to the government.

The South American country received $9.75 billion in orders for the bond, as investors eyed a yield of 7.9 percent in an otherwise low yielding fixed income market where pension funds need to lock in long-term returns.

Thanks to a stronger-than-expected peso currency, the government has increased its overall 2017 foreign currency bond issuance target to $12.75 billion from its previous plan of issuing $10 billion in international bonds, Finance Minister Luis Caputo told reporters in Buenos Aires.

Argentina is going to the international capital markets to help finance a fiscal deficit of 4.2 percent of gross domestic product this year. Caputo said Argentina has $2.6 billion in bonds left to be issued this year. The new paper could be denominated in euros, yen or Swiss francs. The new bond had a coupon of 7.125 percent, the finance ministry said in a statement that hailed success of the sale as evidence that Argentina had regained "credibility and confidence."

Still, the move came as a surprise given Argentina only last year ended a decade-long dispute with creditors over its 2002 default and residents tend to frown upon accumulating debt in dollars.

"Implicitly, this shows market confidence that the government will be able to change the idiosyncrasy of the country and will end the borrow and default cycles. Will it?" said Edgardo Sternberg, Emerging Market debt portfolio manager at Loomis Sayles.

BOND PRICES FALL

Argentine sovereign bond yield spreads over U.S. Treasuries widened six basis points, the widest in a month at 412 basis points. Argentina's 2038 dollar bond fell 1.5 cents while the 2046 bond issue fell 2.6 cents.

The 2032 par bond was down by 1.5 percent.

Though the bond appeared to be well oversubscribed, some investors questioned the wisdom of investing for a such a long term in a country as volatile as Argentina.

"It's awfully premature for Argentina to issue 100-year bonds," said Jorge Piedrahita, chief executive officer of Puma Investments. "When you look back in history, I'm not sure we can find a 20-year period where Argentina has not defaulted."

Citigroup Inc and HSBC acted as lead book runners on the deal, while Nomura Securities and Banco Santander were co-managers. Such long-term bonds are unusual, particularly in emerging markets. Mexico issued a 100-year bond in 2010.

Since taking office in late 2015, President Mauricio Macri has implemented several market-friendly reforms to deliver on his promise of normalizing Argentina's economy after years of heavy state intervention and non-payment of international debt obligations under the previous government.

He ended a decade-long dispute with creditors that allowed it to re-enter global credit markets, but Argentina lacks an investment grade rating. S&P and Fitch rate the sovereign a B with a stable outlook, while Moody's has the debt at B3.

The country sold 400 million Swiss francs ($410.64 million)in debt in March, and Caputo said on June 7 that Argentina would issue peso and euro bonds later this month. Many Argentines, with memories of the severe economic crisis following a 2002 default, took to social media to express their surprise, some with a touch of humor. One asked if Argentina would exist in 100 years, and another said at least cockroaches would pay off the debt.

Axel Kicillof, former finance minister who led negotiations with holdouts under populist ex-President Cristina Fernandez, accused Macri of saddling 10 generations of Argentines with debt. [ ]

"They say nothing bad can last for 100 years. The legacy of Macrismo shows it can," he wrote on Twitter. ($1 = 0.9741 Swiss francs)

<^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ BREAKINGVIEWS-Century-bond hope defeats Argentine experience ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Reporting by Luc Cohen in Buenos Aires, Dion Rabouin New York and Sujata Rao and Claire Milhench in London; Writing by Caroline Stauffer and Hugh Bronstein; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Grant McCool)
Sales of apartments under construction will be restricted



By Yoon Ja-young



The government said Monday it will toughen mortgage regulations and restrict transactions of apartments under construction as part of steps to cool the overheating real estate market.



The land and finance ministries and the financial regulator jointly announced measures to stabilize the housing market  the first real estate market policy announced by the Moon Jae-in government.



Unlike the two previous administrations that used the market as a means to boost the economy, Moon and his ministers have vowed to stabilize housing prices for the livelihood of the working class.



"The unstable real estate market under sway of speculators has made it difficult for those who really need a home to get one, weighing down on households as well as the economy," Vice Finance Minister Ko Hyoung-kwon said.



The measure comes amid soaring apartment prices in Seoul. During the four years under the former President Park Geun-hye administration, apartment prices rose 22 percent while the price of jeonse, Korea's unique home rental system, soared 52 percent. Average apartment prices stood at 318 million won ($180,844) in Seoul last year, which is equal to 11.6 years of an average worker's salary.



Most notable is the toughened restrictions on mortgages, which will go into effect July 3. The government has lowered the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and debt-to-income ratio (DTI) by 10 percentage points in areas preferred by real estate speculators, including Seoul, Gyeonggi Province, Sejong and parts of Busan.



The LTV, which restricts the mortgage a person can get depending on the value of the property, will be marked down to 60 percent from 70 percent. The DTI, which is linked to a person's income, will be slashed to 50 percent from 60 percent. This means those who seek mortgages won't get to borrow as much as before. The DTI will be applied to some collective loans for those who buy new apartments as well.



The government will also restrict transactions of the right to buy apartments under construction.



In Korea, developers get applications from potential home buyers for new apartments even before construction starts. Buyers are also allowed to sell their apartment-purchasing rights to others, often at higher prices, which made these rights a popular investment tool.



The government, however, decided not to allow such transactions in apartments built in Seoul.



It also strengthened regulations on old apartments subject to reconstruction. Old and small apartments in southern Seoul districts have been popular among investors as their value soars when they are rebuilt into new and spacious units.



The government limited the number of new apartments each investor can buy, which will effectively curb demand by speculators.



"The measures announced this time aim at suppressing speculation while protecting those who really need homes," said Park Seon-ho, head of the home and land division at the land ministry.



The toughened DTI and LTV, for instance, don't apply to households who have less than 60 million won annual income, purchasing a home costing less than 500 million won and currently without a home.



"If the overheating continues, we will consider stricter measures, following a regular analysis of housing market conditions and indices," he said.



The restriction, however, is weaker than the market had expected, according to analysts.



"The government doesn't want sudden contraction of the real estate market," said Kim Eun-jin, chief of the research team at Real Estate 114.



"The restriction focuses on the purchasing rights of new apartments to be built. However, the strengthened loan regulation is likely to curb prices that have been rising steeply recently."




Third and fourth generation restaurateurs of Shin Sikdang, Lee Hwa-ja, right, and Han Mi-hee, left, hold up photos of their look-alike first and second generation owners. / Korea Times photo by Yun Suh-young





Shin Sikdang's tteokgalbi formula is a result of generational dedication

This is the second in a series of interviews with third-generation restaurateurs in Korea. _ ED.

By Yun Suh-young

Hands of third and fourth generation restaurateurs Lee Hwa-ja, right, and Han Mi-hee, left, of Shin Sikdang. / Korea Times photo by Yun Suh-young

DAMYANG, South Jeolla Province _ "Yi son-eul boso," said Lee Hwa-ja, a third-generation restaurateur of Shin Sikdang in Damyang, South Jeolla Province. She spread out her hands telling the reporter to look at them.

It was towards the end of the interview that she suddenly blurted those four words ("look at these hands") while explaining how arduous the work was at the restaurant.

"These hands are like a toad. They've become super (geopnagae) coarse." Geopnagae is an expression used to exaggeratingly emphasize a situation _ a word used widely throughout the Jeolla region.

Lee's daughter-in-law Han Mi-hee chimed in, spreading out her hands as well.

"I didn't used to have such thick knuckles. I had heard my hands were pretty although they were long. Now I have thick tendons as well. It's because we use our hands a lot," said Han.

On the surface it sounded like they were complaining, but beneath it the reporter could feel their affection and pride toward their work despite the loss of apparent beauty.

Shin Sikdang is a restaurant famously known for its tteokgalbi, or grilled short rib patties. The restaurant is said to be the origin of the nation-wide dish which has been copied and sold in other restaurants. The restaurant has been handed down four generations, inherited by daughter-in-laws of the first son of the family. Now it is jointly run by third and fourth generations, Lee and Han.

"The history of our tteokgalbi dates back to the early 1900s. It was our founder, Grandma Nam Gwang-ju, who started cooking galbi this way. We have retained the tradition for over a century throughout four generations," said Lee, the third-generation inheritor.





Shin Sikdang's ddeokgalbi

/ Korea Times photo by Yun Suh-young

The restaurant sticks to the founder's recipe which is as follows: 1) detach the meat from the bones and the fat from the meat; 2) add cuts in the meat to make it easy to eat; 3) pat the meat with a mallet and wrap it around the bone; 4) season it right before serving to prevent loss of meat juice; and 5) grill it on the spot.

The name tteokgalbi was given to the dish when Lee was running the restaurant. Initially it was called charcoal-grilled galbi, but customers said it looked like tteok (rice cake) and the name evolved into tteokgalbi.

"Grandma Nam wasn't a chef. She was a housewife. But I guess she was well-known for her knack for cooking. She was recruited to cook for the county's governor and magistrate when they would visit Damyang. At the time, when high officials visited town, people prepared a feast. Our founder, Grandma Nam, was in charge of the food at that feast," Lee said.

"She created this because the galbi had to be visually appealing when served to the governor. They couldn't rip off galbi with their hands like the peasants. So to help them eat more gracefully, she invented this shape."

After Grandma Nam's husband died when she was 37 years old, she opened the restaurant to earn a living to take care of her six children. Farming, which her husband had done, wouldn't suffice to feed the children.

"She didn't want to fall behind other people. She was fierce. I think she was like that because she didn't want to be looked down upon as a woman," Lee said.

"She was a scary woman. Whenever she ordered her staff to do something, she would lift up her skirt like this. She always had a cane in her hand and would smack people if they weren't doing things properly."

The second-generation owner, Grandma Shin Geum-rye, whom the restaurant is named after, was pretty much a similar character, Lee said.

"Oh, she had the same character as well. She didn't carry a rod but she was a perfectionist. If things weren't in place as they should be, she would rage," Lee said.

"But so is my mother-in-law," Han said, referring to Lee sitting next to her.

"Living under those two, you become like them," Lee remarked, defending herself.

"I joined this family at age 23 and now I'm 74. I've been with this family for 50 years now. How can I change?"

There is little information about her predecessors, Lee says, because they weren't the type who would speak about themselves. But neither is Lee, according to Han.

"It's mainly because we're so busy. I don't even have time to talk to my daughter-in-law. We're exhausted when the day is over," Lee said.

The two are early birds and work long hours. Han opens the restaurant at 6 a.m. and Lee joins in at 6:30 a.m. Lee then begins boiling the rib bones to make galbitang (short rib soup) which is offered for lunch. Dinner service is over at 8:30 p.m. They go to bed at 11 p.m. to wake up at 5 a.m.

"Who among the young people these days would live like that?" retorted Lee, who says she hopes her grandson doesn't inherit the business.

"As a grandmother, I don't want to hand over something as difficult as this to my grandson."

But Han said otherwise.

"If my son is willing to do it, I would like him to inherit it, but it's not easy work. Would young people be willing to do such difficult work?"

Han married her husband, who is the first among four sons of Lee, at age 30. She has since been involved in the restaurant business for 16 years.

"I didn't know it was a famous restaurant when I got married. I thought I would help my mother-in-law out but I realized it wasn't easy. It took me one year to master cooking tteokgalbi. It's difficult but I quite enjoy it. I feel pride when customers say it's delicious and come back. We're meticulous about ingredients and our customers," Han said.

Interestingly, the restaurant has been handed down over the generations to daughters-in-law.

"It's because everyone leaves. The daughters leave town. Naturally we end up working with daughters-in-law. But it is a coincidence that the daughters-in-law of the first sons inherited the business. It is not family tradition," Lee said.

The tradition they do have, however, is integrity. They put immense care in choosing fresh local ingredients and create almost everything from scratch. The beef bones are boiled for six hours every day to cook galbitang, the beef used for the galbi is from top-grade cows in the province, and Lee personally makes the soy sauce, soybean paste, red pepper paste and kimchi.

"We manually create everything," said Lee. "I guess that's what differentiates the taste. When others cook with salt, we cook with homemade sauce."

"It's hard to find Korean restaurants these days that cook with their own sauce and kimchi. They mostly purchase them elsewhere. Meat restaurants also tend to mix Korean beef with other types such as imported ones, but ours is purely top-grade Korean beef," Han said.

When asked why Lee boiled the stock every day (even during the weekdays when there are only 30 percent of the weekend numbers), while other restaurants tend to use stock for several days, she said, "It's respect to the customer."

"They're customers too. Everything has to be made that day and consumed that day. We can't use anything that hasn't been made that day. We don't want to be overly ambitious so we only sell what we have for that day. That's a philosophy that is handed down from the first-generation founder."

At the end of the interview, Lee led the reporter to her yard where she had dozens of crocks filled with various sauces. "Taste this," she said showing one of each fermented sauce, which are as fresh as three years old to as aged as 10 years old. Then she started filling two plastic containers each with red pepper paste and soybean paste. "Take them home," she said with a motherly smile. And as if that wasn't enough, she added in a rush, "Come back tomorrow and I'll make you fresh kimchi."
By Choi Ha-young



About half of South Koreans are in favor of reopening the Gaeseong Industrial Complex (GIC), a symbol of inter-Korean cooperation, according to a survey released Monday.



The Realmeter poll showed 49.4 percent of respondents were in support of the resumption of the inter-Korean industrial zone in the North Korean city, while 39.9 percent opposed it. Of the opponents, 16.8 percent answered they are "very opposed" to the resumption of operations.



The respondents were divided by ideological stances  73.1 percent of liberal respondents were positive about the resumption, while only 30.1 percent of conservatives supported it.



The industrial complex, a fruit of an inter-Korean summit in 2000, was suspended in February last year by former President Park Geun-hye following a nuclear test by the North.



At that time, the conservative president claimed the money paid to North Korean workers  through the totalitarian regime  was being used for its missile and nuclear programs. Liberal experts and businessmen argued it functioned as a "buffer zone" and provided a chance for North Koreans to learn about capitalism. South Korean small- and medium-sized enterprises could make a breakthrough there, they said.



On June 13, President Moon Jae-in's pick for the unification minister, Cho Myoung-gyon called public attention to resuming operations at the GIC, saying ,"The industrial complex should be re-opened. In that sense, it would be better to closely review the details," right after his nomination. Cho's remarks were in line with Moon's election pledge.



The poll also showed that South Koreans prefer "dialogue and exchange" to "sanctions and pressure." The former achieved support of 62.5 percent compared to the latter's 22.5 percent. Support for "dialogue and exchange" was consistently high across ideological stances, and generational and regional backgrounds.



On the 17th anniversary of the June 15th South-North Joint Declaration, President Moon revealed his determination to start dialogue with the North on the condition it suspended its military provocations.



"We, business owners, hope public opinion will push the administration to reopen the industrial complex, through talks with North Korea and the United States," Chung Ki-seop, a joint chief of an emergency committee of South Korean firms that operated there, told The Korea Times.



Because of the unexpected shutdown, nearly half of the 124 firms left more than 80 percent of their facilities in Gaeseong. "The new government's move to provide us with full compensation has not been palpable so far, because the past of minister in charge of decision-making remains vacant," Chung said.




Battleships from the Incheon Naval Sector Defense Command take part in a drill near Incheon and Ijak Island on June 14 and 15 to mark the month of national defense and veterans' welfare. / Yonhap



South Korea said Monday it will hold a combined live-fire naval exercise with the United States and Canada this week in its southern waters.

Hosted by South Korea's Maritime Task Flotilla Seven (MTF7), the three-day training exercise will be staged in waters near Jeju Island from Friday, according to the Navy.

It will involve five South Korean warships, including the Aegis cruiser DDG-992 Yulgok Yii, P-3C Orion maritime surveillance aircraft and Lynx multi-role planes as well as the USS Dewey (DDG-105), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer from the U.S. Navy, and MH-60R helicopters.

Two major Canadian frigates -- Winnipeg and Ottawa -- and SH-3 choppers will also take part in the practice.

The three sides plan to hold various drills on interdiction, air defense, anti-submarine operations and ballistic missile detection, along with live-fire training, said the Navy.

Even through Canada participated in the 1950-53 Korean War to help the South fight against the invading North, it's unusual for Canadian warships to join South Korea-U.S. naval drills here.

"The joint exercise is expected to serve as an opportunity to improve our navy's combined operational capability and promote friendly relations with the U.S. and Canada," said Rear Adm. Kim Jeong-su, the commander of the MTF 7.

The Canadian naval ships are in Asia on the occasion of the nation's 150th anniversary of the Confederation for numerous opportunities to exercise with regional partner navies at sea and make port calls. (Yonhap)
President Moon Jae-in offers to resume dialogue with North Korea in exchange for its suspension of its nuclear program, during a ceremony in Seoul on June 15 to mark the 17th anniversary of the first inter-Korean summit. / Yonhap



Two allies urged to narrow difference son inter-Korean dialogue



By Yi Whan-woo

South Korea faces a string of tricky issues regarding security on the Korean Peninsula in next week's summit between President Mon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump.

The allies need to sort out possible diplomatic friction over deployment of a U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery.

Since last week, diplomatic concerns have grown further over Moon's offer of "unconditional" dialogue with North Korea in exchange for Pyongyang suspending its nuclear program.

The proposal came amid U.S. pessimism over any engagement with North Korea after Otto Warmbier, an American college student, returned home in a coma after being convicted of "hostile acts" and imprisoned for 17 months.

Moon's security adviser Moon Chung-in on Saturday apparently added fuel to concerns of a rift between Seoul and Washington when he offered to scale down their joint military exercises and U.S. strategic assets deployed here if North Korea halted its nuclear and ballistic missile activities.

Such a stance is different from that which the U.S. has taken so far. Moreover, the two allies have not talked about such issues yet.



THAAD

On June 2, National Security Office chief Chung Eui-yong hinted at a "full-scale assessment" of the environmental impact of a THAAD battery.

He said that should a thorough study be conducted, it would take longer than expected to complete installing the anti-missile shield.

The remark added to a dispute over transparency about the decisions involved in the THAAD deployment. The U.S. denies there has been a lack of transparency.

The remark was in line with President Moon's order in May to conduct a full-scale environmental assessment of the battery system, citing procedural flaws in deploying it during the former Park Geun-hye administration.

The order consequently delayed full deployment of an additional four THAAD launchers.

But Seoul said the assessment did not mean a reversal of the deployment itself, although the entire survey would take about a year.

Moon Chung-in also dismissed concerns that the THAAD-related dispute may affect the Seoul-Washington alliance, saying, "It's hard to accept that THAAD is everything about the alliance.

Despite this, the statement added to the dispute over transparency in decision-making involving the THAAD deployment.

Diplomatic sources speculate that this could lead to a row between the governments of President Moon and the unpredictable Trump.

Trump has repeatedly complained of South Korea's "free ride" on defense at the expense of the U.S.

In April he suggested South Korea should be charged with the cost of deploying the THAAD system.

He said "it would be appropriate" if South Korea paid $1 billion for it.

Some analysts speculated that Trump may want something else and may be intimidating South Korea over the cost of THAAD battery to reach his ultimate goal.

They said the Moon administration faced a tricky job to resolve Trump's complaints about Seoul.

Fred Warmbier, the father of Otto Warmbier, 22, who was detained in North Korea, criticizes Pyongyang during a news conference at Wyoming High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, on June 15 after his son was returned in a coma. / AP-Yonhap





'Warmbier shock'



Marking the 17th anniversary of the first inter-Korean summit, President Moon said on June 15 that he was open to dialogue with North Korea if the Kim Jong-un regime suspended its nuclear and ballistic missile provocations.

He also said the inter-Korean agreements aimed at reconciliation and unification were precious assets that must be respected regardless of the change in governments.

Later the same day in the U.S., Warmbier's father Fred Warmbier criticized North Korea as a "pariah" regime that "brutalized and terrorized" his son.

During a press conference at Warmbier's hometown in Cincinnati, the father dismissed North Korea's explanation that his son, 22, collapsed from a combination of botulism and sleeping pills while imprisoned in the repressive state.

Trump said what happened to Warmbier was a "truly terrible thing," although he praised his return.

The U.S. is leaning toward imposing sanctions on countries that do business with North Korea, according to U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

"We are in a stage where we are moving into this next effort of, Are we going to have to, in effect, start taking secondary sanctions because countries we have provided information to have not, or are unwilling, or don't have the ability to do that?'" Tillerson told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Fox News and other U.S. media outlets reported that the case of Warmbier is renewing the focus on the horrors that prisoners face in North Korea's gulags.

Under such circumstance, Moon Chung-in said on June 17 that South Korea and the U.S. might consider scaling down U.S strategic assets on the peninsula if North Korea halted its nuclear provocations.

Speaking in Washington D.C., he also said the annual military exercises between South Korea and the U.S., such as Key Resolve and Foal Eagle, could be downsized under the same conditions.

He is in the U.S. until June 21 to discuss Seoul's foreign and inter-Korean policies with American opinion leaders, ahead of the summit.

Moon Chung-in said his remarks were his personal idea as a scholar.

But he has been under growing criticism for acting inappropriately as a presidential adviser in talking about such sensitive issues before the South Korea and the U.S. governments discussed the matter and agreed on an official stance.

A Cheong Wa Dae official said many parts of the comments were Moon Chung-in's personal opinion as a scholar and were not Cheong Wa Dae's official stance.
By Kim Bo-eun



The Moon Jae-in administration's controversial plan to abolish foreign language, international and autonomous high schools faces a tough road ahead, with fierce opposition from the schools, parents and students.



The plan to turn these so-called "elite schools" into regular high schools is meant to reduce reliance on private education and to promote equality.



Because entering these elite schools is considered the route to admission into top universities, parents invest in private lessons so their children can be accepted into them.



Liberal educators and parents with children in public schools believe the elite institutions, which the best students attend, are depleting the pool of high achieving students at regular schools, bringing down the quality of education there.



Five autonomous high schools _ Gwangyang Jecheol High School, Korean Minjok Leadership Academy, Sangsan High School, Pohangjecheol High School and Hyundai Chungun High School _ released a statement, Sunday, protesting the plan to abolish them.



Autonomous schools, which are private schools that run their own curriculum, have become synonymous with elite education.



"Taking issue with elite education, by asserting educational equality, is prejudice coming from viewing education in a political frame," the statement said.



"Maintaining the status-quo of the high school equalization policy, we can only cultivate various outstanding students for the future by elite education which complements the shortcomings of mass education."



The statement said abolishing autonomous schools will result in the outflow of foreign currency due to an increased pursuit of an overseas education, as well as bringing down the quality of education in provincial areas.



One of the aims of the autonomous high school system was to set up prestigious schools in provincial areas, which lacked such institutions in comparison to Seoul, where most elite schools were concentrated.



Nationwide, there are 46 autonomous, 31 foreign language and seven international high schools, and four international middle schools whose status is set to be abolished.



A group of autonomous high school principals is set to release a statement this week, and an association of parents with children in such schools is planning a rally to voice their opposition to the plan.




By Jun Ji-hye

Cheong Wa Dae cautioned President Moon Jae-in's security adviser Monday to refrain from making controversial remarks that could damage relations between South Korea and the United States.





Moon Chung-in

Moon Chung-in, the special presidential adviser for unification, security and foreign affairs, recently triggered a stir after suggesting a willingness to reduce the scale of the allies' joint military exercises and the frequency of the dispatch of strategic U.S. assets to the Korean Peninsula if North Korea stops its nuclear and missile programs.

He made the suggestion during a Wilson Center seminar in Washington, Friday, adding that President Moon had proposed the idea as part of a solution to the nuclear standoff.

With his remarks seen as undermining the allies' joint efforts to curb the North's threats, the presidential office said the adviser's statements were his personal opinion and were not cleared through prior consultation with the President.

"We talked to the special adviser who is currently visiting the United States, today" said a ranking official on condition of anonymity. "We told him that his remarks will do little to contribute to Seoul-Washington relations in the future."

The official noted that the adviser's opinion was just one of a variety of options being developed here to resolve the nuclear and missile threats from the North.

"Any decision needs to be made through close consultation between Seoul and Washington. It cannot be said a certain option is feasible simply because one person suggested it," the official said. He added that President Moon had made no response to the adviser's controversial comments.

U.S. State Department spokeswoman Alicia Edwards also said Saturday that Washington viewed the adviser's proposal as a personal opinion, not the official stance of the South Korean government, according to Voice of America.

Despite Cheong Wa Dae's efforts to remove controversy, the opposition parties went all out to criticize the adviser, with the conservative opposition Liberty Korea Party (LKP) even calling for him to step down from his position.

Rep. Lee Hyun-jae, the LKP's policy chief, pointed out that Moon Chung-in has been a mentor to President Moon on security and foreign affairs.

"If the special adviser's opinion was different from President Moon's official stance, the President should receive the adviser's resignation," Lee said.

Rep. Kim Dong-cheol, floor leader of the center-left opposition People's Party, said, "The U.S. is seriously concerned about the presidential adviser's unexpected remarks as well as the Moon Jae-in government's order to inspect a decision-making process involving the deployment of a U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system here."

Ruling Democratic Party of Korea Chairwoman Rep. Choo Mi-ae said the opposition parties were overacting to his "brave" remarks.
By Jun Ji-hye

JoongAng Media Network's former chairman Hong Seok-hyun has refused to work as a special adviser to President Moon Jae-in, according to Cheong Wa Dae, Monday.





Hong Seok-hyun

"We are taking the relevant steps to withdraw the appointment," a Cheong Wa Dae official told reporters, asking not to be named.

President Moon named Hong to be one of the special presidential advisers for unification, foreign affairs and national security on May 21. But Hong immediately rejected the offer, according to the official.

When asked about the reasons for his rejection, the official said, "There is nothing I can say as it was his personal choice."

Hong visited the United States, May 17, as Moon's special envoy, during which time he met with U.S. President Donald Trump and other officials. On the day of the appointment, he returned home and told reporters he learned about his appointment only after his arrival.

"I heard about the appointment just now," he told reporters at the airport. "I need to think about it more. I am a bit embarrassed as the announcement was made without prior consultation with me."

The official said he did not know much about it as Moon's chief of staff was mainly working on it, but it was believed the presidential office failed to contact Hong in advance as he was on the flight.

On a follow-up appointment, the official said nothing has been decided.

Hong served as Korean ambassador to the United States in 2005 under the Roh Moo-hyun administration for which Moon served as chief of staff.

Hong was once mentioned as a potential candidate for the U.N. secretary-general, along with Ban Ki-moon, the position the latter assumed in 2007.

He quit JoongAng Media Network in March and sought to run in the May 9 presidential election, but later decided not to run.
A wood pellet heater / Wikimedia Commons



By Ko Dong-hwan

A bioreactor plan in Gunsan that would use wood pellets has met with a backlash from protesters worried about environmental hazards.

The protest targeted Korea Midland Power's plan to build the 200 megawatt reactor over 66,000 square meters inside Gunsan National Industrial Complex No.2 in North Jeolla Province.

Construction of the building is scheduled to begin in September, and will cost 580 billion won ($513 million).

Concerned people from government, related industries, educational institutes and the public said at a forum that the bioreactor would be similar to any other reactor harmful to environment.

"Although the reactor burns wood pellets, which is sustainable energy, it will still contribute to the rampant fine dust pollution," an official from an ecological environment civic group said at the forum on June 16.

The protesters also said the reactor would put the city on par with the nation's biggest power plant zones, like Korea Western Power's complex and Hanwha Energy's combined heat and power plant.

The protesters, upset over conventional reactors burning tires and plastics, were unconvinced that the bioreactor would be environmentally safe and vowed to stop it being built.
By Dr. Jeffrey I. Kim





Last week I attended the 2017 Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) Best Practice Roundtable. The Roundtable was held in Washington, D.C., and was organized by SelectUSA. The participants shared their knowledge or experiences of FDI attraction and retention. At this meeting I explained the role of Korea's foreign investment ombudsman trying to retain foreign-invested companies by providing various after-care services.

SelectUSA helps companies of all sizes to find the necessary information and assists U.S. economic development organizations to compete globally for investments.

The striking lesson I have learned during the Roundtable was that not only the developing countries but also advanced countries desperately try to attract foreign business investment, including the U.S. But their strategy is a lot different than that of developing countries. Advanced countries try to emphasize the availability of factors conducive to investment regardless of whether they are local or foreign investors. By contrast, developing countries tend to provide discriminatory benefits or incentives for foreign companies.

Foreign business investors enter into a host country in various entities. For example, they come either as a multinational enterprise or a single-national company. From their standpoint, foreign business investors try to put their money in the most profitable place regardless of whether it is a developed or developing country.

Foreign companies choose a host country for various reasons. They want to make the most use of the favorable factors the host country has available. They include a huge consumer market, lower-cost production, access to abundant natural resources, profitable technology transfer, etc.

In general the regulatory environment in the advanced countries is conducive to starting and operating a business. More importantly their business culture encourages free enterprise and competition. More specific advantages that developed countries may have available are: a business-friendly climate, abundant natural resources, an expansive infrastructure network and efficient financial markets.

By contrast, developing countries tend to provide discriminatory incentives for foreign investors. They provide a variety of FDI incentives: (1) reduction or exemption of the local government's acquisition and property tax and of the central government's corporate tax; (2) cash grants provided to foreign businesses accompanying advanced technology; and (3) foreign investment zones designated to provide industrial site support. In spite of these incentives, however, their FDI policy is not always successful.

As part of the efforts to promote foreign investment from developed countries to developing countries and vice versa, the World Bank started publishing "Doing Business" annually 14 years ago. It ranks the ease of doing business for 190 countries. In "Doing Business 2017," New Zealand, Singapore, Denmark, Hong Kong, South Korea, Norway, the U.K., the U.S., Sweden and Macedonia are the top 10 countries. New Zealand ranks first and Macedonia 10th.

"Doing Business" measures aspects of regulations that enable or prevent private sector businesses from starting, operating and expanding. These regulations are measured using 11 indicator sets. They are: starting a business, dealing with construction permits, getting electricity, registering property, getting credit, protecting minority investors, paying taxes, trading across borders, enforcing contract, resolving insolvency and labor market regulations.

The 11 sets of "Doing Business" were determined by one of the World Bank's research teams. They used firm-level data gathered through extensive surveys. These surveys provided data regarding obstacles to business activities as reported by more than 130,000 firms in 139 economies.

While developed countries try to attract FDI by publicizing the various factors they can proudly present such as transparent and predictable legal standards, advanced technology and a pro-business environment, developing countries try to attract FDI by providing such incentives as tax support, cash grants and industrial site support.

In spite of all these incentives, however, foreign companies encounter numerous problems. These problems occur due to misunderstandings of the existing laws or misapplication of tax laws and environmental rules regardless of whether the host countries are advanced or developing. Foreign companies need after-care services so an ombudsman's service is needed in any country receiving FDI.

Nevertheless, every host government should bear in mind that pure business risks and market uncertainties always exist. It would be fair and just for investors to take on such risks and market uncertainties. So the host countries should not waste their resources by granting excessive benefits or incentives for foreign investment.





Dr. Jeffrey I. Kim is a foreign investment ombudsman, a state-appointed troubleshooter for investors and entrepreneurs from overseas. He earned a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago and taught at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and at Sungkyunkwan University.
By Andrew Salmon





It has been painted as the first misstep by newly minted President Moon Jae-in. On Memorial Day, he praised Korean Vietnam War veterans for their service, noting that their sacrifices had earned generous payments from ally the United States. Those U.S. dollars granted Korea much of the seed capital required for its "economic miracle."





owever, Koreans were not the only people monitoring Moon. The Vietnamese government took exception to his comments, which did not mention the sufferings of the Vietnamese people. A portion of those sufferings were brutalities inflicted on them by Korean troops  including massacres of civilians.





Was Moon right to thank the veterans? Yes. Should he also apologize to Vietnam? Yes. Would the two statements be contradictory? Not necessarily.





The Korean troops deployed to Vietnam between 1965-1973 were considered highly effective by their U.S. allies; a British observer admiringly dubbed them "The Prussians of Asia." But much of the Vietnam fighting was against insurgents  and counterinsurgency is a damnable business.





When the line between civilian and combatant is blurred, as it commonly is during guerilla conflicts, the risks of civilians becoming victims  of "collateral damage" during engagements when insurgents, attired as civilians, are fighting among civilians, or of full-on massacres at the hands of enraged troops  soar.





It is not widely known that counterinsurgent measures initiated the cruelest slaughter in modern history, the Holocaust. As German forces advanced into the USSR after June 1941, SS "Einstatzgruppen" (Task Forces) deployed behind the front-line units, murdering Soviet Jews in the hundreds of thousands. The ostensible reason for these killings was a fear that Jews (regardless of the fact that many of them were women and children) would become a fifth column in the German rear. Einsatzgruppen pioneered a new tool of mass murder, gas, which was subsequently perfected in the death camps.





Nor is it coincidental that the most notorious combat unit of World War II was tasked with counterinsurgency: The SS anti-partisan brigade led by convicted pedophile Oskar Dirlewanger, who recruited poachers, military criminals and eventually the criminally insane to man his ranks. The Dirlewanger Brigade's revolting conduct in the USSR, and during the Warsaw uprising of 1944, is barely printable even today.





Yet while Germany prosecuted war criminals and compensated Holocaust survivors, it also maintained veterans' cemeteries and paid pensions to veterans, including SS men. Just as most German troops in World War II never murdered a civilian, nor did most Korean troops in Vietnam.





So, it is perfectly appropriate for their president to commend them for their service. What Moon said was accurate and appropriate, given the setting and the audience.





Then, should Moon apologize to Vietnam for Korean atrocities? Perhaps  but he should do so in an appropriate forum, such as a state visit. And an apology does not invalidate his comments thanking Korean troops. There is no disingenuity in this: Different messages apply to different audiences.



Moon, I suspect, gets this. His PR people have trumpeted his service in the airborne "black berets." That elite unit is noted for its toughness  but it also perpetrated the Gwangju massacre.



If Moon's government does recognize this principle, it should refrain from criticizing Japanese politicians who visit Yasukuni. While the souls of a handful of war criminals are, indeed, enshrined there, the vast majority are war dead, not war criminals. Likewise, the fact that Japanese politicians apologize to Korea for colonial-era misdeeds, but also visit Yasukuni and pray for their war dead, is not necessarily contradictory.



War is terrible, but it has rules. When those rules are broken, even more terrible things happen. Should civilized societies investigate and prosecute war criminals within their own soldiery? Absolutely. Should they also honor the soldiers they deploy into the fire? Definitely.





Andrew Salmon is a Seoul-based reporter and author. Reach him at andrewcsalmon@yahoo.co.uk.




Status quo can no longer accommodate 2 allies' differing needs



Top presidential aide Moon Chung-in's jarring remarks about the ROK-U.S. alliance should be taken in the context of the new Seoul government's national security objectives _ finding its own breathing space from its superpower ally, the United States.



For any doubters about what President Moon Jae-in wants, it is worth remembering how he stopped the deployment of a U.S. missile interceptor, the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, calling for an environmental reassessment.



Then, President Moon also insisted on, albeit with caveats, dialogue with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, saying the solution to the inter-Korean standoff resides in the June 15, 2000, South-North agreement made after the first inter-Korean summit. The agreement hits a strong nationalistic tone for reconciliation.



All these events speak to Korea's dissatisfaction with the current stalemate caused by big power politics and illustrate Moon's intention to break from the current modus operandi of following the U.S.'s lead and try his hand independently.



This independent streak is the heritage from the late President Roh Moo-hyun under whom Moon served as chief of staff. Roh rose unexpectedly to power thanks to the outpouring of support by young, independent-minded voters, but tried unsuccessfully to gain Korea a mediating role among its big power neighbors. Moon, a presidential adviser who touched off a commotion in Washington, was the architect of Roh's ill-fated pursuit of the role of regional balancer.



Now, there is little doubt that Moon is picking up where Roh left off to give it an even harder push and he has already taken into account the risk of reshaping the current alliance significantly.



Moon's position is clashing with the United States. The quixotic U.S. President Donald Trump is an aggravating factor but this can't explain what has gone wrong.



Moon looks almost fatalistic about inter-Korean reconciliation, striking a contrast to his mentor Roh, who complied with U.S. demands to send troops to Iraq and cleared the way for a bilateral trade agreement, although he was abandoned by his supporters for what they saw as an act of betrayal.



Now, the ball is in the U.S.'s court.



Can Washington relent from its global strategy _ allowing Seoul to get closer to Beijing, its competitor? This would set back Washington's plan to use Japan and Korea to encircle China and risk being seen as being weak, something that the U.S. can't afford, especially when Trump has already damaged the global U.S. leadership.



Then again, facing the North's growing missile and nuclear threats, the U.S. has its hands tied with few viable options. That may lead Washington to hand over the reins of a comprehensive Pyongyang policy to Seoul. This reset may be the solution to prevent the demise of the ROK-U.S. alliance as we know it, and find a new non-military way of dealing with a North Korea that is about to aim long-range nuclear missiles at the U.S.




By Lee Byung-gwon





Lee Byung-gwon, president at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology

Several years ago, a YouTube video of a shrimp running on a treadmill sparked a huge controversy when it was known that this was part of a research experiment funded by half a million dollars in taxpayer money.

This experiment had a clear scientific purpose: To enhance our understanding of how marine environments impact the immune systems of aquatic life forms. But since this purpose was not adequately explained to the general public, a widespread social backlash was fomented by those who regarded it as an example of wasteful federal research spending. This backlash finally died down once researchers working on the project fully explained the rationale behind their experiment. The situation clearly illustrates how poor communication between scientists and the general public can result in misunderstandings and other negative consequences.

Over the past couple of decades in Korea, scientists and engineers have made great efforts to publicly explain the relevance and importance of their research and development projects. However, it seems that further efforts are needed. People still generally regard scientific research-related issues as being beyond their grasp, and most scientific news articles and press releases contain specialized terminology that many people find difficult to understand. In a survey from 2015, 98 percent of respondents agreed that the science and technology community had a responsibility to explain its research to the public, while 95 percent also said this is currently not being done effectively.

Albert Einstein once said "If you can't explain it to a six-year-old, you don't understand it yourself." With this in mind, it is imperative that scientists learn to publically explain their research findings in a manner that can be easily understood, since it is public tax money that makes their research possible. In addition, scientific and technical concepts expressed in simple, concise language can be more easily applied to a myriad of academic fields, such as the social sciences, humanities, cultural studies and the arts. Furthermore, by keeping the general public updated on the latest scientific advances, we enable them to make informed decisions throughout their everyday lives.

For this reason, scientific writing skills have long been taught to university-level science and engineering students in many developed countries. In recent years, this trend evolved into the modern field of "science communication," which refers to methods of effectively presenting scientific information to non-experts, both verbally and in writing. For example, MIT's Writing & Communication Center famously offers programs on how to more easily communicate scientific concepts to the general public.

However, in Korea, only a few university-level science curricula provide coursework-based opportunities for students to learn these skills. Therefore, to enrich the discourse between scientists and the general public, Korean universities need to consider integrating such opportunities into their science classes.

Fortunately, opportunities are increasing for the general public to educate themselves about scientific breakthroughs made possible by their tax money. In the United States and other developed countries, citizens are not simply witnesses to innovation; they play an active role in determining the direction of future discoveries. Meanwhile in Korea, there remains a shortage of science and technical infrastructure and programs easily accessible to people from all walks of life. That is why the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), the organization for which I work, recently launched a new "science museum" within a section of Seoul's underground metro near the KIST campus. Our goal was to take a highly visible public area and utilize it for helping people become more actively engaged in common scientific issues.

Up until now, Korea's science and technology community has received enormous support from both the national government and the general public. However, there is the strong possibility that the growth rate of Korea's research and development budget will decline sometime in the near future. Scientists must learn to effectively promote science and technology not only to the government, but to the general community as well. Through enhanced social acceptance and the understanding of public spending on science and technology, we can finally begin unlocking its limitless potential.

The writer is the president at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology.
By Lee Hyo-sik



Kumho Industrial, which owns the Kumho trademark, has refused to accept a demand from the Korea Development Bank (KDB), saying it wants to receive 0.5 percent of Kumho Tire's revenue as brand royalties from Double Star Tires.



After holding a board of directors' meeting Monday, the company said it decided to stick to its initial terms to protect the value of the Kumho brand, drawing protest from KDB.



When signing a sales agreement with Double Star for a 42.01 percent stake in Kumho Tire for 955 billion won ($840 million), KDB promised the Chinese mid-tier tiremaker it could use the Kumho brand by paying 0.2 percent of company revenue as royalty for 20 years. The Chinese company was also given the right to cancel the trademark use by giving three months' notice to Kumho Industrial.



But early this month, Kumho Industrial, which is controlled by Kumho Asiana Group Chairman Park Sam-koo, informed the KDB it cannot allow Double Star to use the brand under such conditions.



Park wants to see the sales deal between KDB and Double Star fall apart so he can get a second chance to take back control of the group's tire unit, observers pointed out.



The company said the Chinese firm should pay 0.5 percent in brand royalties for 20 years and cannot unilaterally cancel use of the trademark during that time.



But Double Star immediately refused the proposal, claiming creditors should decide on the trademark issue.



KDB then asked Kumho Industrial to allow Double Star to use the brand by paying 0.2 percent of the revenue.



"We cannot change the terms concerning Double Star's use of the Kumho brand to preserve the value of the brand," a Kumho Industrial official said. "The board of directors decided to uphold our proposal because doing so is in the company's best interest. We don't think our demand is excessive."



In response, KDB said it will call for a gathering of Kumho Tire creditors to discuss the matter Tuesday.



"Representatives of Kumho Tire creditors will meet to deal with the matter, Tuesday," a KDB official said.






Retail giant stuck in saturated Korean market





Chung Yong-jin,

Shinsegae vice chairman

By Park Jae-hyuk

Shinsegae Group is a retail giant in Korea. As far as overseas business is concerned, however, it lags far behind its rivals, a consultancy said Monday.

According to CEO Score, Shinsegae posted 31.5 billion won ($27 million) in overseas sales last year, which was only 0.1 percent of the group's total. Among its 34 subsidiaries, only four chalked up sales in offshore markets.

The proportion seems to be too small for one of Korea's top 10 conglomerates. Worse, the figure might go down even more as Vice Chairman Chung Yong-jin officially stated recently that its E-mart discount chain will exit the Chinese market.

This compares to its cross-city rival Lotte Group, which racked up 9.27 trillion won in overseas sales. Lotte earned 12.5 percent of its total sales revenue from outside of Korea.

CJ Group and Hyundai Department Store Group earned 738.4 billion won and 264.7 billion won in their overseas sales, respectively. The figures amounted to 3.4 percent and 3.7 percent of each group's total sales revenues, respectively.

CJ and Hyundai Department Store ranked below Shinsegae in the conglomerate ranking. The two ranked 14th and 21st, respectively, in terms of assets.

CEO Score chief Park Ju-gun said that Shinsegae runs the risk of becoming a big fish in a small pond.

"The country's retail business showed clear signs of hitting the saturation mark over the past few years. In response, domestic players including Shinsegae tried to tap into global markets," Park said. "But its repeated failures seem to prompt Shinsegae to drop overseas ventures. Instead, it sticks to different strategies in the domestic market."

Different approaches

The overseas sales of Shinsegae I&C, Shinsegae E&C and Shinsegae Food were 100 percent intra-group transactions. Each of them posted 310 million won, 80 million won and 50 million won in overseas sales, respectively.

E-mart alone did not depend on internal transactions. Korea's top discount chain's turnover amounted to 31.1 billion won outside of the country. And E-mart decided to leave the world's most populous country.

Considering E-mart made most of its sales in China, however, Shinsegae's international sales would further decrease.

Unlike Shinsegae, Lotte still maintains a strong attachment to China despite great challenges. Most of its Lotte Mart outlets were forced to close this year due to the group providing land for the deployment of a U.S. anti-missile system here.

Moreover, Lotte announced the opening of its subsidiary in Vietnam and the opening of a 200,000-square-meter shopping mall in Hanoi in 2020.

CJ also showcased its grand vision of becoming an international company, right after the recent return of Chairman Lee Jay-hyun. The group aims to expand the portion of its overseas sales to 70 percent of its total by 2020.

Shinsegae said that E-mart would expand exports although experts question whether such tactics would make a dent in its business.

"E-mart became the first retail company which was designated as a specialized trading company by the government last year," a Shinsegae official said. "E-mart will expand its exports to 100 billion won by 2018."

The discount chain is exporting Korean products to Vietnam, Mongolia, the United States and New Zealand. It is also partners with major shopping platforms in other countries, such as Chinese firms Alibaba Group and NetEase.

Shinsegae Department Store opened its online outlet in Alibaba's Tmall last weekend as well to improve its brand awareness.
PRESS RELEASE

Senate Anti-Russia Sanctions Bill: Putin Unconcerned, Merkel Furious

June 17, 2017 (EIRNS)Russian President Vladimir Putin, in the wake of the U.S. Senate vote the other day on sanctions against Russia, vowed, during a TV interview today, that Russia will not be pushed into a deadlock in its relations with Washington.

"It is important to note that no matter what is going oncertainly, probably, lets look what will be the result in the final end. But no matter what and which decisions are taken overseas, this wont push us into deadlock,"

Putin stressed.

"We will probably have to correct something, and take additional measures, pay extra attention to something, but this [toughening of sanctions] wont lead to a deadlock or any collapse,"

he said. "But this will certainly complicate Russian-U.S. relations," he warned. "I believe this is harmful," Putin said. "But it is early now to speak about any retaliatory steps [toward strengthening of sanctions] but lets look at the outcome."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, on the other hand, is furious about the bill. Merkels spokesman, Steffen Seibert, said it is "peculiar" that sanctions aimed at punishing Russia could also lead to penalties against European companies. "This must not happen," he said. "We generally reject sanctions with extraterritorial effects, meaning an impact on third countries." German Economy Minister Brigitte Zypries told Reuters that Berlin would have to think about counter-measures if the bill becomes law: "Well have to consider what we are going to do against it."

Section 257 of the bill, which is on U.S. policy on Ukrainian energy security, targets, among other things, the supply of Russian gas to Europe, including the proposed Nordstream 2 pipeline, which is planned to run the length of the Baltic Sea, from St. Petersburg, Russia to Greifswald, Germany, mostly along the same route as the currently existing Nordsteam pipeline. The bill makes opposition to Nordstream 2 U.S. policy because of its alleged

"detrimental impacts on the European Unions energy security, gas market development in Central and Eastern Europe, and energy reforms in Ukraine."

What European critics of the bill are really jumping on, however, is the following clause:
PRESS RELEASE

FBI Begs Judge Not to Release its 60-Page 9/11 Slide Show

June 17, 2017 (EIRNS)The FBI filed a motion in Federal Court on June 14 asking Miami U.S. District Court Judge Cecelia Altonaga to reconsider her May 15 ruling that would make public large portions of a 60-page FBI slide show titled "Overview of the 9/11 Investigation," investigative reporter Dan Christensen reported in the June 15 Florida Bulldog.

The FBI has opposed making the slide show public, on the grounds that that it would disclose large portions of an overview it showed to the 9/11 Review Commission in secret on April 25, 2014. The FBI claims that this information would show how much money was being moved around; how it was being moved around; the mode of transfer, and the locations where the FBI detected movement of money.

It would also show, the FBI says, the kinds of weapons and identification the conspirators carried; information about the arrival of the intended pilots and other conspirators in the United States, and a timeline of phone calls between conspirators. This, says the FBI, would provide a "playbook" to future subjects on how much money can be moved around.

Responding to the FBI motion June 12, attorneys for the Florida Bulldog said:

"The referenced techniques apparently are those techniques that the 9/11 hijackers evaded on Sept. 11, 2001.... If anything, the Power Point slides might reveal outdated, failed law enforcement acts or omissions. The 9/11 attacks on the United States are a consequence, at least in part, of the failure of the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to detect and halt them."

Obviously, it could also give banking and law enforcement beyond the FBI a key tool for preventing funding of terrorism in the future.

Judge Altonagas May order granted in part an FBI motion for summary judgment, on lawfulness of FBI redactions. But the FBI has not restored any redactions yet. The FBI wants to keep hidden a page containing "specific factors deemed pertinent to the analysis of the financial transactions of hijackers before 9/11;" and the coordination of safehousing the hijackers in the United States. There is a possibility that a FOIA trial will be ordered.

Although the classified "28 pages" of the 9/11 report were released after a 15-year political battle on July 15, 2016, these did not include information on the "Sarasota cell" of the hijackers. This investigation has been carried on by Florida Bulldog investigative reporter Dan Christensen, with the support of former U.S. Senator Bob Graham.
PRESS RELEASE

U.S. Bank Loan Writeoffs Starting To Hit Danger Zone

June 17, 2017 (EIRNS)A posting on theindependent.org today by Alvaro Vargas Llosa of the Center for Global Prosperity, is titled "Another Financial Bubble Crash Ahead?" It notes a fact previously only covered through rose-colored glasses in American Banker.

"Capital One, a big lender to subprime borrowers (particularly through credit cards and auto loans), has had to write off a lot of debt latelyfor a total of more than 5 percent of its outstanding loans, the level usually considered the threshold of very dangerous territory."

Capital One has $237 billion in deposits and $357 billion in assets. Vargas Llosa suggests it is not the only one.

"These symptoms point to risks not dissimilar in nature to what was happening before the housing-related financial meltdown. Banks are beginning to reduce outstanding corporate lending for the first time since that crisistotal loans at the 15 largest U.S. regional banks in the first quarter of 2017 were $10 billion below the previous quarter, a very significant reversing of the trend. Standard and Poors downgraded 1,088 companies in the United States last year, and analysts are predicting a wave of junk-debt defaults, perhaps encompassing one in every four high-yield debt issuing companies."

That could be one-fourth of $1.6 trillion in high-yield debt defaulting. High-yield is part of the $14 trillion U.S. corporate debt bubble which has ballooned by $7 trillion, or doubled, just since 2010. Besides this Vargas Llosa ticks off credit card debt, over $1 trillion and with even greater signs of distress now; auto loans at an unprecedented $1.2 trillion [with another $350 billion in securities based on them]; and student debt at $1.4 trillion.
J.K. Rowlings website Pottermore is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the first Harry Potter volume with a new online book club.

The Wizarding World Book Club launched on Monday with the goal of uniting fans of the British boy wizard from across the globe. The clubs first reading assignment is, fittingly, Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, originally published in the U.K. in June 1997. The book is published in the U.S. under the title Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone.

Discussion of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone will last for five weeks on the Pottermore website and on Fridays on Twitter.

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In a news release, Pottermores global digital director, Henriette Stuart-Reckling, said the book club was started in response to a strong demand from Harry Potter fans.

The Wizarding World Book Club provides an exciting opportunity for Harry Potter fans to share their thoughts about key scenes, plot points, motivations and characters from the series with a vast global community, she said.

The weekly discussions will have different themes, with the first week serving as an introduction of sorts, with readers sharing their stories of how they first discovered the Harry Potter books.

The themes for the following weeks include Magic and the Muggle World (Is the wizarding world as well-hidden as it likes to believe?) and Friendship (Do you agree with Hermiones belief that friendship and bravery are more important than books and cleverness?).

Members of the book club, which is free to join, will get first access to curated articles, video and other content on the Pottermore site, according to the news release.

On Twitter, the reaction to the club from Harry Potter fans has been ecstatic, with some readers barely able to contain their excitement:

i'm so ready, it feels like i'm going home  pic.twitter.com/LEQHhyBFLX  madds (@maddielythgoe_) June 19, 2017

I may be pushing 50 but age doesn't matter, HP is timeless! Couldn't decide on my fav so had to get all four! @jk_rowling @wwbookclub pic.twitter.com/WefqhIHfKL  Rob (@GhostlyRob) June 19, 2017

@wwbookclub @pottermore These are my Braille copies of the Harry Potter books. Four of these volumes make up the Sorcerer's Stone. pic.twitter.com/WgxEPmaYwS  Brooke Cottrell (@BrookeCottrell_) June 19, 2017

The book club will next read the other volumes of Rowlings seven-book series in the months following the discussion of Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone.

For fans hoping that J.K. Rowling herself will participate, there is no official word that she will. But as the writer has an active presence on Twitter, where she regularly tweets about writing, books, politics and her childrens charity to her 10 million followers, those Friday book club discussions would be a good place to look for her.
Matt Cherniss is departing his post as president of WGN America, the Tribune Media-owned cable network that has made a push into original programming in recent years.

Tribune announced Monday that Cherniss, who also ran the channels production entity Tribune Studios, will step down at the end of the month. Gavin Harvey, a veteran cable executive involved in such networks as E!, FX and Fuse has been tapped to replace Cherniss.

Cherniss took over WGN America in March 2013 and led an effort to transform the channel from a repository of broadcast network repeats to a destination for original series. But WGN Americas strategy is likely to change once Sinclair Broadcast Group completes its acquisition of the cable networks parent company Tribune Media.

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The original programming push began with supernatural series Salem, launched in 2014, and Manhattan, a period drama about nuclear scientists in Los Alamos, N.M., which won critical kudos. In 2016, the network launched the slavery drama Underground and Outsiders, an adventure series set in Appalachia. All four series have been canceled.

Any makeover of a cable channel that involves original series can take years  and a heavy financial investment  to fully execute. When Sinclair announced that it was acquiring Tribune for $3.9 billion, company executives indicated that they planned to pursue a more cost-efficient way to program WGN America.

There has been chatter in the TV industry that Sinclair has designs to convert WGN America into a politically right-wing news service that would compete with Fox News Channel. But cable and satellite carriage agreements for cable channels are highly restrictive when it comes to format changes.

Cherniss joined WGN America after a stint at FX, where he oversaw the development of original programming.

Tribune Media, based in Chicago, is the former parent company of the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune. The two newspapers, along with Tribunes other publishing properties, were spun off into a new company  now named Tronc Inc.  in 2014.

stephen.battaglio@latimes.com

Twitter: @SteveBattaglio
Months after some advertisers fled Google over concerns about ads appearing alongside YouTube videos that promote hate and extremism, the Internet giant has announced new steps aimed at tackling such content.

There should be no place for terrorist content on our services, Google said in a Sunday blog post outlining ways it will identify problematic videos and remove them from YouTube  or at least stop them from being monetized and make them harder to find.

In March, after a report by Britains The Times showed examples of ads appearing next to videos by homophobic British preacher Steven Anderson and American white supremacist David Duke, brands including AT&T, Verizon and Enterprise Rent-A-Car said they would halt or reduce deals to advertise with Google.

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The uproar centered on ads placed on YouTube as well as websites and apps that use Googles ad technology. It was a real concern for Googles parent company, Alphabet Inc., which has struggled to generate significant profits outside of advertising.

In its Sunday blog post, Google said one way it will fight extremist-related content is by devoting more resources to apply advanced machine-learning research. More than half of the terrorism-related content Google has removed in the last six months was found and assessed by video analysis models, it said; this step will build on that.

Google also said it plans to increase the number of independent experts in YouTubes Trusted Flagger program, in which a tier of trusted people alert the company to problematic videos. It will add 50 expert nongovernmental organizations to the 63 that are already part of the program.

When it comes to videos that are troublesome but do not clearly violate the companys policies, such as those that contain inflammatory supremacist content, Google said it will take a tougher stance. It said those videos will be preceded by a warning and will not have advertisements, will not be recommended and will not be eligible for comments.

We think this strikes the right balance between free expression and access to information without promoting extremely offensive viewpoints, the company said in the blog post, written by Google general counsel Kent Walker.

Finally, Google announced the expansion of two programs that try to directly sway peoples opinions: Creators for Change, which promotes YouTube videos that are against hate and radicalization, and Redirect Method, which uses targeted online advertising to reach potential Islamic State recruits and redirect them to anti-terrorism videos.

Seamus Hughes, deputy director of the Program on Extremism at George Washington University, said Googles announcement is a positive step and signifies that they are looking at this with fresh eyes.

And since Google is such a large company, he said, it will lead other companies that host user-generated material to make further changes in fighting terrorism-related content.

AT&T was not moved by Googles announcement.

We are deeply concerned that our ads may have appeared alongside YouTube content promoting terrorism and hate, it said, reiterating a statement it made in March. Until Google can ensure this wont happen again, we are removing our ads from Googles non-search platforms.

rachel.spacek@latimes.com

@rachelspacek
The federal governments consumer financial watchdog is defending his handling of the Wells Fargo & Co. unauthorized accounts scandal in the face of Republican charges that the agency failed to catch the problem and has stymied a congressional investigation into how it handled the case.

Richard Cordray, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, said he is quite proud of the team that looked into Wells Fargos sales abuses.

Clearly our team, along with our partners, has performed a tremendous public service here, Cordray wrote last week to Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas), chairman of the House Financial Services Committee.

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The letter is the latest salvo in an acrimonious battle between Cordray, a Democrat who heads the powerful agency created in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, and Hensarling, who has called for President Trump to fire Cordray and is pushing legislation gutting the bureaus power.

Hensarlings bill, which passed the Republican-controlled House on a party-line vote this month, would strip the bureau of its ability to closely monitor financial firms for compliance with consumer protection laws and eliminate public access to the bureaus database of consumer complaints, among other changes.

The letter was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

In September, Wells Fargo agreed to pay $185 million to settle investigations into its sales practices by the bureau, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and Los Angeles City Atty. Mike Feuer. The bank did not admit any wrongdoing but said its employees had opened millions of checking, savings and credit card accounts that customers never authorized.

The scandal was made public by the Los Angeles Times in December 2013.

Congressional Republicans have charged that the consumer bureau failed to catch Wells Fargos problems until The Times brought it to light and Feuer began an investigation that culminated in a 2015 civil lawsuit.

The only conclusion there is to draw regarding the Wells Fargo scandal is the CFPB was asleep at the wheel, Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.) told Cordray during a contentious April hearing. The L.A. Times, the [comptrollers office] and the L.A. city attorney all got there before you did, Mr. Cordray.

Cordray has testified that the bureau began looking into Wells Fargos practices after receiving whistle-blower tips in mid-2013.

The House Financial Services Committee has been investigating Wells Fargos practices and the performance of regulators in the matter. On June 6, the committee staff issued a report saying the bureau has produced no records indicating it began investigating the matter before Feuer filed his suit.

The report threatened Cordray with contempt of Congress for not providing documents related to the bureaus Wells Fargo investigation that the committee had subpoenaed.

The report said the bureau had turned over just 1,010 pages of records that duplicated those produced by the OCC and Wells Fargo. And the report said it has received no documents corroborating Cordrays statements that the bureau had engaged in supervisory activity regarding Wells Fargos sales practices before Feuer filed suit against the bank in May 2015.

In his letter to Hensarling on Wednesday, Cordray said the bureau had provided the committee with more than 57,000 pages of documents in an effort to comply with the committees broadly worded requests.

Cordray said the bureaus supervision of Wells Fargos practices began before it formally contacted the bank about the problems. Cordray said that he and the committee staff seem to have differing interpretations of what is meant by the phrase supervisory activity. 

We did not contact Wells Fargo directly regarding these practices until the spring of 2015, Cordray wrote. But the bureau began internal work on the matter in 2014 and its regional supervisory staff made the decision to schedule an examination of Wells Fargos practices in 2015.

Jeff Emerson, a spokesman for Hensarling, said Monday that the explanation fell short and calls into question whether Director Cordray misled Congress.

The committee cannot complete its Wells Fargo investigation until Director Cordray produces all agency records subpoenaed by the committee, Emerson said. If Director Cordray truly wishes to correct the record, he should stop ignoring his legal obligations. What is he trying to hide?

In the letter, Cordray more broadly defended his agency, noting that it only began operation in July 2011 and its staffing was not up to full speed until 2014. Wells Fargo has said the problem of unauthorized accounts began in 2002.

Twitter: @JimPuzzanghera

jim.puzzanghera@latimes.com
Sen. Elizabeth Warren is calling on the Federal Reserve to remove Wells Fargo & Co. board members who presided over the bank when it opened millions of consumer accounts without customers authorization.

The scandal revealed severe problems with the banks risk management practices  problems that justify the Federal Reserves removal of all responsible board members, the Massachusetts Democrat wrote in a Monday letter to Federal Reserve Chair Janet L. Yellen.

The letter primarily cites a report by New York law firm Sherman & Sterling, which was hired by the board to conduct an independent investigation into the scandal, which erupted last year.

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The report, released in April, found that the board did not take an active enough role in monitoring the banks practices, which in turn allowed problems to persist for years. Some critics said the report did not hold the board accountable enough, painting board members as out of the loop rather than negligent.

In her letter, Warren said the boards lack of oversight caused the company to suffer financial and reputational harm and that the lack of effective risk management amounted to an unsafe and unsound practice that put the bank at risk.

Federal banking regulators have the authority to remove bank directors, although its something of a last resort.

Warrens letter requests the removal of 12 current board members who served between May 2011 and July 2015  the period during which the bank admitted opening as many as 2.1 million sham accounts in a $185-million settlement with regulators and the Los Angeles city attorneys office.

Excluded from the call for removal are Chief Executive Timothy Sloan and directors Karen Peetz and Ronald Sargent, all of whom joined the board later.

Wells Fargo said Monday morning that it had not yet received a copy of Warrens letter, but defended the boards response to the scandal.

Wells Fargos board and management team have taken many actions in response to its retail sales practices issues, including changes in senior leadership, executive accountability actions and numerous steps to ensure we make things right with any customer affected by unacceptable sales practices, the statement said.

In April, the companys shareholders re-elected all the banks board members, but with markedly less support than theyve been accustomed to in previous years.

While the banks three newest directors each received at least 99% support from shareholders, none of the other 12 directors received more than 80% of shareholder support.

At last years meeting, every board member won the support of at least 94% of voting shareholders.

The letter by Warren is just the latest fallout from the scandal, which the bank has sought to put behind it.

Last week, the bank, seeking to settle related class-action lawsuits, made an open-ended commitment to fully compensate customers who paid fees or suffered damage to their credit due to any unauthorized account.

The bank had previously agreed to pay $110 million to settle the cases, and later upped the amount to $142 million as estimates of the number of unauthorized accounts rose to as many as 3.5 million.

The fake accounts scandal cost Wells Fargo customers millions of dollars in unauthorized fees and damaged many of their credit scores, Warren wrote in the letter.

At a congressional hearing in September, Fed Chief Yellen was pressed on regulatory action against Wells Fargo and said, I think it is very important that senior management be held accountable.

Since then, however, Wells Fargo Chief Executive John Stumpf resigned, and the bank has clawed back tens of millions of dollars worth of compensation from Stumpf and former community banking executive Carrie Tolstedt.

The bank, which had earlier fired some 5,300 employees, also revised its incentive system to reward employees for new accounts that are actually used instead of just opened.

The banks practices  which stemmed from employees trying to meet onerous sales quotas set by managers and executives  were first uncovered by a 2013 Los Angeles Times investigation.

Jaret Seiberg, an analyst for Cowen Washington Research Group, wrote in a note he doesnt expect action from the Fed.

We find it as unlikely that the Federal Reserve would remove the existing directors, Seiberg wrote. The CEO already has left and the board has conducted its own investigation.

Shares of Wells Fargo closed up 35 cents to $54.24.

Times staff writer Jim Puzzanghera contributed to this report.

jack.flemming@latimes.com

@jflem94

UPDATES:

1:55 p.m.: This story was updated with Wells Fargos stock price, more details from Elizabeth Warrens letter and a comment from analyst Jaret Seiberg.

This story was originally published at 9:45 a.m.
Amazon.coms plan to buy Whole Foods Market Inc. sparked an avalanche of discussion about how the online retail giant could transform the U.S. grocery industry in the years ahead.

But Amazons $13.7-billion deal might not be the last word on the merger itself.

Wall Street signaled Monday that it expects a rival offer for Whole Foods to surface, and many industry and merger experts agreed.

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Highly likely, said Lloyd Greif, whose investment firm Greif & Co. specializes in mergers and acquisitions but isnt involved with Whole Foods. Amazon didnt put this out of reach for everybody else in terms of price, he said.

Amazon agreed to pay $42 for each Whole Foods share under their agreement announced Friday. But in trading Monday, Whole Foods closed at $43.22 a share, up 54 cents on the day, indicating that investors expect a higher offer to arrive.

We would not be surprised if there is a bidding war for Whole Foods, the 465-store chain that focuses on natural and organic groceries, analyst Karen Short of Barclays Capital Inc. said in a note to clients Friday.

But Short and others noted that even if Whole Foods gets an alternative offer, the other suitor will be hard-pressed to win a bidding war against Amazon, whose deep pockets include having a total stock-market value of $475 billion. Amazons stock closed Monday at $995.17 a share, up $7.46.

Very few entities could outbid Amazon, Short said.

Nonetheless, she said many will do anything to either make this acquisition more costly for Amazon or to prevent the asset from landing in [Amazons] lap. Thats because Amazon poses such a competitive threat, especially when it comes to putting downward pressure on prices and profit margins.

Short and others suggested other potential bidders include Kroger Co., the parent of the Ralphs and Food4Less supermarket chains; Albertsons, which also owns Vons and Pavilions; and retail giant Wal-Mart Stores Inc., among others.

Whole Foods, Kroger, Albertsons and Wal-Mart all declined to comment. Amazon did not respond to a request for comment.

Whole Foods also might draw a rival offer from one or more large private-equity firms because theres a tidal wave of money thats sloshing around in that industry, said Eric Schiffer, chief executive of the Patriarch Organization, a private-equity firm that isnt involved with Whole Foods.

Amazons $42-a-share offer amounted to a 27% premium above where Whole Foods stock had closed the prior day, at $33.06.

But Whole Foods has struggled in recent years, and the $33.06 price was about half where Whole Foods stock was trading at its peak in October 2013. One problem facing the chain: Conventional supermarkets are stocking more natural and organic products at lower prices than Whole Foods, draining away some of its customers.

Regardless, given the track record of how Amazon and its chief executive, Jeff Bezos, have transformed other retail industries, theres likely concern among grocery executives about Amazons entry into the market. That might result in a rival offer for Whole Foods, analysts said.

Any smart board recognizes its probably smarter to try to pay more for Whole Foods to keep Bezos out of this game, Schiffer said. He could make some shocking changes that could be deadly to some of these [existing] brands.

Rival supermarket chains also would see Whole Foods as a strategic play where they can expand their customer base while trimming duplicate distribution, purchasing and overhead costs, Short said, adding that the savings could total up to $600 million a year.

The Amazon deal was struck after the companies agreed that John Mackey would remain Whole Foods chief executive. That might not be the case if Whole Foods was bought by another grocery chain.

Whole Foods board, of course, has a fiduciary duty to its stockholders to consider any viable takeover offer.

As for Amazons current offer, give Jeff [Bezos] credit, hes getting a great deal here, Greif said.

Whole Foods is part of the creme de la creme of the supermarket industry and is a hand-in-glove fit with the educated, relatively affluent demographic of Amazon customers who pay $99 a year for the sites Prime membership that includes free shipping, video streaming and other services, Greif said.

Ultimately theres nobody who can take it away if [Bezos] really wants it, Greif said, and I think he really wants it.

james.peltz@latimes.com

Twitter: @PeltzLATimes

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Celebrating #HarryPotter20: How Harry Potter and his blockbuster films came of age on screen

The Boy Who Lived has cast his spell on the box office since Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone, the first film in Warner Bros. blockbuster franchise, hit theaters in 2001.

The bestselling, seven-book series was adapted into eight record-breaking films -- and a two-part play -- as the boy wizard ventured through Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the wizarding world with his pals Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, taking on the enigmatic Lord Voldemort and his magical henchmen each school year.

As J.K. Rowlings debut novel Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone -- the first of the books from which the decade-spanning films were adapted -- marks its 20th anniversary, heres a reminder of how Los Angeles Times film critic Kenneth Turan reviewed the Harry Potter films. (Spoiler alert: He didnt always like them.)

1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone film is imaginative and faithful but shuns any risk-taking (2001)

As his 11th birthday approaches, orphan Harry Potter learns that hes a wizard and enrolls at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where his reputation as the Boy Who Lived precedes him during his magical training.

The result is a remarkably faithful copy of the book that treats the text like holy writ (hence its 2-hour-and-33-minute length), wrote The Times film critic Kenneth Turan. From the gold in Gringotts, the safe-as-houses goblin-run bank, to the centaur lurking in the forbidden forest that adjoins Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, so much is presented just as written that Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone starts to resemble one of those fiendishly exact replicas of great works of art that Sunday painters can be seen working on in galleries of museums.

2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets doesnt capture the well-balanced tone of the book (2002)

In their second year at Hogwarts, Harry and his pals Ron and Hermione contend with a celebrity author professor and a well-meaning house elf named Dobby who thwart the trio in unexpected ways.

The darkness that invades Chamber of Secrets underlines how well the books managed to exactly balance good and evil, dark and light, so that within their pages you seemed to be experiencing both at the same time. Not so here, Turan wrote. Because Chamber of Secrets cant seem to get the balance right, it ends up broadly overdoing things on both ends of the spectrum. The films scary moments are too monstrous and its happy times have too much idiotic beaming, making the film feel like the illegitimate offspring of Alien and The Absent-Minded Professor.

3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban film comes close to capturing the essence of the books (2004)

The wizarding world gets markedly darker as convicted murderer Sirius Black (Gary Oldman), who is believed to have killed Harrys parents, escapes from the Azkaban prison and the soul-sucking Dementors are loosed to chase him down. Director Alfonso Cuaron takes the helm from Chris Columbus, who directed the two previous films.

"[T]he final hour of the two-hour-and-21-minute Azkaban is the closest any of the films has gotten to capturing the enormously pleasing essence of the Potter books, wrote Turan, adding, Those three leads (Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, Emma Watson as Hermione, Rupert Grint as Ron) play characters who are now 13, an age when anger and frustration are more publicly expressed. One of the benefits of Cuarons direction, his expertise with younger actors, means that the constant determination and occasional fury exhibited by the characters, especially Harry and Hermione, are completely convincing.

4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire finally gets Harry Potter right (2005)

Harrys surprising inclusion in the prestigious Triwizard Tournament, as a fourth-year student, raises concerns and brings danger to the Hogwarts castle.

Its taken them long enough, but the movies have finally gotten Harry Potter right, wrote Turan. It has fallen to the veteran [director] Mike Newell, eager, in his own words, to break out of this goody-two-shoes feel, to make the first Harry Potter film to be wire-to-wire satisfying.

Though memorable acting is neither called for nor delivered on the part of Goblets collection of juveniles, Radcliffes Harry does get one thing exactly right. Watching him face myriad challenges, were convinced that Harrys heart will lead him to do the right thing. He does good in the most natural way and, like so much of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, thats just how it should be.

5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix cant shake an episodic feeling (2007)

With the Ministry of Magic refusing to acknowledge Lord Voldemorts (Ralph Fiennes) return, fifth-year Harry is brooding at school as he contends with spooky visions and Ministry transplant Dolores Umbridge (Imelda Staunton). His knowledge of the dark magic-fighting organization, the Order of the Phoenix, and a prophecy further complicate matters.

"[Director David] Yates and his team handle the films visuals well, including the impressive sets for the atrium of the Ministry of Magic and its Hall of Prophecy, as well as fine flying sequences involving either broomsticks or equine creatures called Thestrals, Turan wrote. The director also works well with the films juvenile leads, which is important, because these are the raging hormone years at Hogwarts School, and that is especially true where Harry is concerned. Looking so disgruntled in his gray hoodie that you fear he might start rapping, Harry comes off as more Grumpy Potter than the bright light of the wizarding world.

6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is well-crafted but sometimes hard to endure (2009)

As dark magic spills into the Muggle world, Harrys mentor, Professor Dumbledore (Michael Gambon), tasks him with bringing down Lord Voldemort. But Harrys discovery of an old textbook teaches him more than he expected about his past.

Now in its sixth episode shot over an eight-year span, with two more features still to come, this one-of-a-kind film cycle has become as comfortable and reliable as an old shoe, providing a degree of dependability thats becoming increasingly rare, Turan wrote. As directed by David Yates, who did the previous film and is on tap for the final two, Half-Blood Prince demonstrates the ways that the Potter pictures have become the modern exemplars of establishment moviemaking. We dont turn to these films for thrilling or original cinema, we look for a level of craft, consistency and, most of all, fidelity to the originals -- all of which we get.

7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows -- Part 1" (2010)

The penultimate film sees Harry, Hermione and Ron venturing out into the real world to locate and destroy Lord Voldemorts soul-encapsulating Horcruxes as Hogwarts and the wizarding world fall to He Who Must Not Be Named.

Much of the plot of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows involves the attempt to find and destroy a series of Horcruxes, and if you havent a clue about what they are or why theyre important, you might as well stay home, Turan wrote. There is something different, however, about this Potter movie, and that is the words Part 1' that end the title. Understandably distraught about Hallows being the last of the phenomenally popular J.K. Rowling novels, Warner Bros. has split the final effort into two films and is likely kicking itself for not having thought of that with the earlier books.

(It should be noted that the studio reboots the wizarding world with the forthcoming Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them series. The first film hit theaters in 2016.)

8. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows -- Part 2" (2011)

Harry goes wand-to-wand with Lord Voldemort, concluding Harrys final year at the wizarding school with the epic Battle of Hogwarts.

In a classic storybook finish, however, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows -- Part 2' turns out to be more than the last of its kind. Almost magically, it ends up being one of the best of the series as well, Turan wrote. The Harry Potter films, like the boy wizard himself, have had their creative ups and downs, so its especially satisfying that this final film, ungainly title and all, has been worth the wait. Though no expense has been spared in its production, it succeeds because it brings us back to the combination of magic, adventure and emotion that created the books popularity in the first place.

For more of The Times Harry Potter anniversary coverage, go here.
In singing about the Kern River, Merle Haggard put it best: Its a mean piece of water, my friend.

As a heat wave tightens its grip on California, the water in the massive Sierra Nevada snowpack is being squeezed into the states rivers and reservoirs, creating dangerous conditions downstream.

On Monday, the Bakersfield Fire Department urged Kern River visitors  especially those from out of town and unfamiliar with the conditions  to keep out.

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The Kern River is hazardous for those not properly trained in special water navigation techniques or not accompanied by trained river guides, the department said in its precautionary alert. The sections of the Kern River flowing through metro Bakersfield may look calm and inviting, but the force is shocking, unexpectedly powerful and can overcome the strongest swimmers.

Six people have drowned in the river so far this year, the agency said. Since 1968, 280 people have drowned in the river, the Bakersfield Fire Department said. Bakersfield first responders have performed 17 swift water rescues in the last month.

There have also been drownings this year in the Tule, San Joaquin, Sacramento and Kings rivers as the snow has continued to melt, authorities said.

Californias snowpack is past its peak melting period and has begun to slow but the danger remains, said David Rizzardo, a water supply forecaster with the state Department of Water Resources. The water flow down the Kings River in particular is the highest its been since March, he said.

joseph.serna@latimes.com

For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.
A Los Angeles County coroners report released on Monday revealed a mixture of drugs that were in actress Carrie Fishers system when she went into cardiac arrest on an L.A.-bound flight and later died.

Fishers toxicology review found evidence of cocaine, methadone, MDMA (better known as ecstasy), alcohol and opiates when she was rushed to Ronald Reagan UCLA Hospital on Dec. 23, a toxicology report showed.

The test results suggests there was an exposure to heroin, but that the dose and time of exposure cannot be pinpointed. Therefore we cannot establish the significance of heroin regarding the cause of death in this case.

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The tests revealed that the cocaine would have been consumed within the previous 72 hours, according to the autopsy.

Four days later on Dec. 27, Fisher went into cardiac arrest. After 90 minutes of attempting to revive her, officials declared the Star Wars actress dead just before 9 a.m.

Her cause of death was listed as sleep apnea with other factors.

In addition to the listed cause of death, the coroners statement cited other conditions: atherosclerotic heart disease, drug use.

It also said: How Injury Occurred: Multiple drug intake, significance not ascertained.

Carrie Fisher opened up about her demons  and knew she wouldnt have a Hollywood ending

At familys request, medical examiners did not dissect the corpse. Instead, they conducted CT scans of the body.

In this case the family requested no autopsy, said Brian Elias, chief of investigations. We try to honor the familys wishes when possible.

Among other observations, examiners noted a tattoo of a moon and stars on the bodys right ankle, and extensive metallic dental restoration.

Fishers daughter, Billie Lourd, issued a statement to People magazine Friday night linking her mothers death to drug use.

My mom battled drug addiction and mental illness her entire life. She ultimately died of it. She was purposefully open in all of her work about the social stigmas surrounding these diseases, Lourd told People.

Fishers brother, Todd Fisher, responded to the official cause of death on Friday.

His sisters battle with drugs and bipolar disorder slowly but surely put her health in jeopardy over many, many years, he said. I honestly hoped we would grow old together, but after her death, nobody was shocked.

Drug use can exacerbate sleep apnea with potentially fatal results, but the report does not make clear whether Fisher took any drugs on the day in December when she suffered a cardiac incident on the international flight.

1 / 9 The Gay Mens Chorus of Los Angeles sings during the memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher near their grave at Forest Lawn Memorial Park-Hollywood Hills. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 9 R2-D2 says goodbye under a giant photograph of Carrie Fisher during the memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher at the Forest Lawn Memorial-Park in the Hollywood Hills. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 9 Actress Ruta Lee speaks during memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 9 Students from the Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio perform during the memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 9 The Gay Mens Chorus Los Angeles sings during the memorial Under one of the many images that was flashed on a screen in the background. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 9 Dan Aykroyd speaks during the memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 9 Todd Fisher hugs R2D2 at a memorial for Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds at Forest Lawn Memorial Park-Hollywood Hills. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 9 After the memorial, friend Shari Wilson of Los Angeles touches the Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher grave site at Forest Lawn Memorial Park-Hollywood. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 9 Katie Walker, 35, Of Joshua Tree, has a Princess Leia tattoo on her shoulder. After a memorial for Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher, fans visited the grave site at Forest Lawn Memorial Park-Hollywood Hills. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Her assistant told authorities that Fisher slept most of the flight and had a few apneic episodes during the journey, which was usual, the coroners report said. Toward the end of the flight, Fisher could not be stirred awake, the report states. A few minutes later, she began vomiting profusely and slumped over, the report stated.

Before arrival, a pilot told the control tower that nurses onboard were attending to an unresponsive passenger.

Theyre working on her right now, the pilot said in a public recording of the conversation on liveatc.net.

The daughter of Hollywood couple Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher, Carrie Fisher was essentially born into show business.

She made her film debut in 1975, starring in the comedy Shampoo with Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn. But she etched herself permanently into the consciousness of the movie-going public as Princess Leia in the 1977 sci-fi classic Star Wars.

While she never quite escaped that role, which made her a sex symbol to a generation of geeky adolescents, she gained a degree of literary respect a decade later with the publication of Postcards From the Edge, a novel about an actress battling drug addiction.

A series of nonfiction books, including Wishful Drinking and The Princess Diarist, cemented her reputation as a serious author.

In her books and at public speaking events, Fisher was open about her struggles in the movie business and her prickly relationship with her mother. She was also outspoken about her mental health issues and the drastic solution she found: electric shock therapy.

Reynolds had a stroke after her daughters death and died Dec. 28.

joseph.serna@latimes.com

For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.

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UPDATES:

2:40 p.m.: This article was updated with comments from Elias.

This article was originally posted at 9 a.m.
An immigrant rights activist who has said she was detained by Border Patrol agents in retaliation for protesting the arrest of her mother spoke out publicly for the first time Monday, announcing she will apply for protections as a Dreamer in the hopes of avoiding deportation.

Claudia Rueda, 22, grew emotional as she stood in front of a detention center in downtown Los Angeles, describing her time in federal custody as a nightmare.

In there, it was always orders and orders. It was very dehumanizing, she said.

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Rueda was released from custody on June 9. She was arrested in front of her aunts Boyle Heights home on May 18 when agents with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection descended on the area. The Border Patrol has said the agents were carrying out a drug investigation when they snatched up Rueda and six others; none of the people arrested that day were charged with drug offenses.

Ruedas mother, 54-year-old Teresa Vidal-Jaime, had been arrested during a joint operation by the Border Patrol and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department in April. A drug raid by both agencies led to the seizure of more than 30 pounds of cocaine and $600,000 in cash, authorities said.

Vidal-Jaimes husband, Hugo Rueda, and three other men were arrested on suspicion of drug possession. The Sheriffs Department has said Vidal-Jaime was not part of the alleged drug operation, but she was held in federal custody for several weeks on suspicion of violating immigration law.

Rueda led protests objecting to her mothers detention. Vidal-Jaime was released from federal custody on May 12 over the objections of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials. Rueda was arrested six days later in a move her attorney Monika Langarica and other local activists have decried as retaliatory.

Langarica and others have said that Rueda has no ties to the alleged drug organization.

Asked why agents carrying out a drug investigation only managed to make immigration-related arrests, Mark Endicott, a supervisory agent with the Border Patrol in San Diego, had said previously that the intent of the enforcement effort was to disrupt the entire organization.

Endicott said Rueda had been identified as part of a support network for the drug organization. He declined to elaborate.

Rueda, who has been in the U.S. since she was 6, will now apply for protection under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, according to Langarica. The initiative, started by President Obama in 2012, protects immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children from deportation.

Rueda has no legal standing to be in the U.S., according to a statement issued by ICE last month. She has been arrested two other times during protests in recent years, according to police records and Times archives.

Langarica made a formal request asking immigration authorities to drop proceedings against her client.

In a statement, an ICE spokeswoman said the agency will review any requests submitted by Ms. Ruedas legal representatives.

The fate of the DACA program remains uncertain. A memo issued last week by Homeland Security Secretary John F. Kelly seemed to indicate the program would continue, but President Trump repeatedly vowed to end the program while on the campaign trail.

Rueda is a student at Cal State L.A. and was joined by several of her professors on Monday morning. Alejandra Marchevsky, who said Rueda was studying the effects of deportation on immigrant communities in class just a day before her arrest, criticized the tactics of customs officials as an attempt to quash political activism.

Were seeing this really as a strategy to silence young people who oppose this immigration policy, Marchevsky said.

With tears in her eyes, Rueda said she hoped an immigration judge would not force her to leave the only country shes ever called home.

This is all that I know. I dont know anything else, Rueda said. Los Angeles is family.

james.queally@latimes.com

Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for crime and police news in California.
In a widening investigation of the Los Angeles Police Departments cadet program, Chief Charlie Beck on Sunday announced he has suspended training for cadets at the 77th Street Division and Pacific Division, where three cadets arrested on suspicion of stealing police cruisers were based.

The move is part of a top-to-bottom review of the citywide cadet program following revelations that besides the theft of three cruisers, the cadets may have also stolen other police equipment and posed as sworn officers. The suspensions are in effect pending the outcome of the investigation, officials said.

Two of the accused cadets were assigned to the 77th Street Division and the third to the Pacific Division, said Josh Rubenstein, LAPD public information director.

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The teens, ages 15, 16 and 17, were not identified because they are minors. They were booked in connection with the theft of the cruisers and other LAPD property, Beck said. He added that all three were involved in the vehicle thefts but that it was not immediately clear which of them may have been involved in taking the other equipment.

Department officials said the three cadets led officers on car chases through the streets of South L.A. on Wednesday in a pair of stolen police cruisers. The car chases ended in separate crashes.

The thefts and chases sparked an investigation that revealed some of the cadets may have also stolen a bulletproof vest, two stun guns and two police radios, Beck told reporters last week.

Since the arrests, the cadet program has come under intense scrutiny. The captains in both divisions will now meet one on one with every cadet regarding the severity and seriousness of the recent incidents along with the need to maintain ethics, the LAPD said in a statement last week. Police officials will also meet with the parents of cadets in those divisions.

Investigators are trying to determine if other cadets were directly involved in the unauthorized use of LAPD patrol cars or knew of the thefts of the vehicles and other equipment.

Currently, about 2,300 teens ages 13 to 20 are enrolled in cadet programs. The programs operate at each of the LAPDs 21 geographic stations. Only programs at the 77th Street Division and Pacific Division are suspended, officials said.

According to police sources, the cadets involved in the vehicle thefts made themselves unauthorized police uniforms and had driven at least one of the stolen patrol cars more than 1,000 miles.

Investigators are trying to determine what the teens were doing with the vehicles as well as where they went. Police said one of the cars went missing in late May. Detectives want to figure out whether the vehicle was stolen once or repeatedly taken and returned without detection, which would raise even greater concerns about how the LAPD tracks its cars.

Detectives are checking various cameras that read license plates around the Los Angeles area to see if the cruisers might have been logged and want to know when and where the cars were gassed up, according to multiple police sources who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details about the ongoing investigation.

Sources said police had checked the odometers of the cars and discovered that at least one had been driven a significant distance since it was last used for official business.

Beck said the cadets may have been impersonating officers while driving the stolen cruisers, and he asked anyone living in Central and South Los Angeles or Inglewood who might have information to contact police.

The cadets were able to steal the cruisers in part because one of them used a sergeants identity to check out vehicles using a computer, the chief said.

In a statement Sunday, the department said it will inspect all cadet work areas for sensitive materials and unauthorized computer access. The LAPD has already begun a physical inventory of vehicles and equipment after the episode revealed lax oversight at the stations.

Sources told The Times that investigators also plan to examine the recovered stun guns. Data can be downloaded from the Tasers to show whether the devices were fired and if so, for how long. LAPD officials often look at such data when evaluating whether officers were justified in using force against someone.

Police, the sources said, already know the teens made several stops for gas, including at least one visit to a city-owned pump at City Hall East.

The department became aware that two LAPD cruisers had gone missing around 5 p.m. Wednesday, resulting in an investigation that Beck said almost immediately focused on a 16-year-old female cadet assigned to the 77th Street Division after officials found video of the teen fueling the car at a city gas pump. About 9:30 p.m., two stolen cruisers were spotted near the 77th Street station.

A chase began after the drivers ignored officers commands to pull over, Beck said. The stolen cars separated at some point, resulting in two chases that both ended in wrecks.

One cadet taken into custody was wearing a spare bulletproof vest used for training purposes, the chief said. A third car had also been taken by the cadets, but it was quickly located near the 77th Street station, Beck said.

The department said Beck plans to address all cadets during a formal inspection in coming days.

richard.winton@latimes.com

Twitter: @lacrimes

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A Northern California mother who claimed she was trying to exorcise demons from her daughter has been booked on suspicion of biting, choking and shoving handfuls of sand into the girls mouth and eyes on a crowded beach, authorities said.

Kimberly Felder, a 45-year-old Ferndale resident, was arrested Friday morning on suspicion of attempted homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, felony child abuse and aggravated mayhem, Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal said in a statement.

The ordeal unfolded about 9 a.m. when authorities received a report of a mother attacking a small girl at Centerville Beach County Park near Ferndale, a small city with Victorian-era homes about 20 miles south of Eureka, Calif.

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The witness told authorities the mother was trying to perform an exorcism. She had stripped the 11-year-old girl naked and attacked her with sand, Honsal said.

The mother stated she was trying to remove the demons from the child, the sheriff said.

The mother stated she was trying to remove the demons from the child.  Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal

As Felder viciously hit, bit and choked the girl, Honsal said, a crowd of 10 to 12 people arrived and saw the incident. During the attack, Felder severely bit her daughters right ear, authorities said.

Resident John Marciel couldnt stand by and watch the beating, so he stepped in and restrained Felder, Lt. Ken Swithenbank said.

As Marciel fought with Felder on the ground, she struck her daughter on the head with a piece of driftwood, authorities said.

A sheriffs deputy later arrived and arrested Felder.

As deputies took Felder into custody, Marciel tended to the girl, Swithenbank said.

The girl was hospitalized for multiple injuries. She will probably require reconstructive surgery to her ear, he said.

It is unclear what led the mother to believe her daughter was possessed and needed an exorcism, Swithenbank said.

The incident, he said, was strange  and very disturbing for deputies.

Authorities said if it were not for Marciels heroism and swift actions, the girl would have been killed.

He was shook up pretty good, Swithenbank said. Its very heroic what he did.

For his heroism, the lieutenant said, sheriffs officials have requested that Marciel be recognized with the Red Cross Lifesaver Award.

veronica.rocha@latimes.com

Twitter: VeronicaRochaLA

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Record-breaking temperatures that stoked a wildfire near Castaic Lake and other Southern California locations continued to rise Monday and will peak Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

In Lancaster, a 56-year-old record was broken Monday when temperatures climbed to 110 degrees.

The heat is expected to climb even higher on Tuesday, reaching up to 110 degrees, according to meteorologist Tom Fisher. Inland areas from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo counties were expected to see temperatures between 100 and 110 degrees, weather officials said.

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To help residents cope with the hot spell, Mayor Eric Garcetti announced that more than a dozen cooling centers will be open until 10 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday.

LOS ANGELES, CA. -- Friday, June 16, 2017: Luigi, a Pitbull cools down at Genesee Avenue Park in Los Angeles, CA on Friday, June 16, 2017. (Christian K. Lee/ Los Angeles Times) (Christian K. Lee / Los Angeles Times)

Everyone in Los Angeles should have a place to go for relief from these scorching temperatures  and that can be especially critical for the youngest among us and older Angelenos without air-conditioning, he said.

The scorching weather is part of a system commonly referred to as the Four Corners High, a high-pressure system that settles over the desert Southwest near the Four Corners and spreads smothering heat from Northern California to Nevada and as far east as central Texas, Fisher said. The Four Corners is the area where Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado meet.

Fortunately for some, an onshore breeze is keeping temperatures relatively cooler along the California coast. Temperatures will hover in the 80s downtown and will be even cooler the closer you are to the beach, Fisher said. Temperatures in the high desert are about 15 degrees above average, he said, with the heat wave expected to cool a few degrees each day starting Wednesday.

Thats not the case in Sacramento Valley. The Weather Service estimates that triple digits there could last for a nine-day stretch, ending Saturday. The record for consecutive days of triple-digit heat there is 11, set in 2006, the weather service said.

In the meantime, the heat is drying out grass and brush that sprouted up and grew amid the wettest winter in years in California.

Near Big Bear, firefighters battled an 850-acre wildfire that erupted Monday afternoon and swiftly burned through grass and chaparral. As of Monday night, no evacuations were ordered, but campgrounds in the area were closed.

Over the weekend, Los Angeles County firefighters battled a fast-growing brush fire near Castaic Lake.

Two small structures were destroyed and about 800 acres have burned, authorities said. The so-called Lake Fire was 78% contained Monday night. Crews spent the day mopping up hot spots and building containment lines to keep the fire from spreading, and the fire is not expected to grow further.

In Riverside County over the weekend, firefighters tackled a 10-acre brush fire near Beaumont, a 40-acre fire near Moreno Valley and a 20-acre blaze just north of Lake Elsinore.

In San Bernardino County, crews reported 70% containment on the Zermatt fire near Wrightwood, which consumed 11 acres.

Times staff writer Matt Hamilton contributed to this report.

joseph.serna@latimes.com

For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter.

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UPDATES:

9:45 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details on the weather forecast.

5:00 p.m.: This article was updated with details on L.A. expanding the hours for cooling centers.

This article was originally published at 8:50 a.m.
Maria Blanco did a double take when the Google alert popped up in her inbox late last week: President Trump had reversed his campaign pledge and decided to continue a federal program temporarily suspending deportations of young people who are in the country illegally.

The news thrilled Blanco, an attorney who heads the University of California Immigrant Legal Services Center  the nations first and only university system to provide free legal aid to students without legal status and their families.

But her excitement was quashed within hours, when administration officials clarified that they still had made no final determination on the program  called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA  leaving in question the fate of 750,000 young immigrants under its protection. An estimated 3,700 students without legal status attend UC campuses.

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Its such a roller-coaster ride, Blanco said Saturday. Were back to where we were, which is not knowing really what the fate of this program is. Everybodys still in limbo.

As uncertainty over Trumps immigration policies persists, Blanco and other attorneys at the UC Immigrant Legal Services Center have become academias go-to experts. Should students apply for DACA and give their personal information to the Trump administration? Should they travel abroad and risk being denied reentry?

Can students rest easy with the recent news that U.S. immigration officials actually approved more DACA applications in the first three months of this year than in the same period last year?

The centers attorneys wrestle with such questions daily  along with a soaring workload. Blanco estimates that cases totaled more than 800 for the 2016-17 academic year, compared with 362 last year. Most of them involve DACA applications, travel permissions, help for students families and general consultations.

Other universities across the nation have flooded the center with requests for information on how to set up similar programs. The centers attorneys have held know your rights campus workshops and briefed UC administrators on immigration issues.

Since the election, its been nonstop, Blanco said.

Attorney Amy Frances Barnett, left, advises a UC Davis student at the UC Immigrant Legal Services Center at UC Davis. The student arrived in the United States unlawfully as an infant. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Students say the center, housed at UC Davis, has been their lifeline. One young man, who asked for anonymity to protect himself, said he sobbed for hours after Trump was elected, wondering if he would be kicked out of the only country he has called home since he arrived unlawfully as an infant.

He researched countries that might accept Mexicans like himself and hatched fallback plans to immigrate to another country. He wondered if he should risk reapplying for a federal work permit under the DACA program.

One country wants nothing to do with you; the other country you dont even remember, he said during a recent interview. You feel you dont deserve to belong anywhere.

But he said Amy Frances Barnett, a center attorney, has calmed his anxieties with her reassuring manner and legal aid. During a recent meeting, she updated him on his application for a work permit and gave him a pocket-sized handout developed by UC on what to do if approached by immigration officers. It advised of the right to remain silent but said to be polite and truthful.

Keep it in your wallet in case you come into contact with police, Barnett told him.

OK, sweet, he said.

He is working toward degrees in psychology and neurobiology/physiology, aiming to become a neurosurgeon and prove his worth to Americans. If I work hard enough, maybe theyll want me, he said.

Another student said Rachel Ray, a managing attorney at the center, helped him renew his DACA permit and prepared him for questioning last year by U.S. border officials when he returned to California from a study abroad trip to Mexico. He practiced his answers in front of the mirror, terrified he might be turned back at the border. But he got through easily, said the student, who hopes to attend law school after graduating this year with degrees in political science and psychology.

I dont know what I would have done without them, he said. They are an essential resource for the community.

The center was launched in January 2015 by UC President Janet Napolitano, who helped create the DACA program as U.S. Homeland Security secretary in the Obama administration. She said the idea for the center stemmed from conversations with immigrant students after she joined UC in 2013 and was consistent with the states generous policies toward those without legal status. Nearly one-third of DACA recipients live in California.

Our undocumented students are part of our university community, and they have unique legal needs, Napolitano said. They are under a lot of stress right now.

The UC Davis law school was chosen to house the center because of deep expertise  it created the nations first immigration law clinic in 1980 and has the largest immigration law faculty in the nation. Another asset: law school Dean Kevin Johnson eagerly welcomed the project with space and resources.

The center initially provided legal services to the six UC campuses without law schools. Napolitano last year increased funding to $2.5 million over three years, allowing the center to extend services systemwide except for UC Berkeley, which assists students through a partnership with a community legal services center. Today, the center employs nine attorneys who speak English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Japanese, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Gujarati.

Critics include Stephen Frank, a senior contributing editor of the California Political Review, who lambasted the center as a sleazy, corrupt operation providing law violators assistance so they can continue to violate our laws.

Blanco responds that the legal services reflect the universitys commitment to help students in need, whether immigrants, veterans, the disabled or sexual abuse victims.

She is trying to raise money to sustain the center beyond Napolitanos three-year commitment. UCLA supports one of the full-time attorneys with its own funds.

Blanco also shares the centers work with campuses across the nation, including the Ivy League schools, the University of Notre Dame, the University of Oregon, Pomona College, the California State University system and California Community Colleges. The UC Berkeley alumna, who has more than two decades of experience in civil rights legal work for such nonprofits as the California Community Foundation and Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, recently spoke to college administrators at a symposium at Occidental College.

She urged them not to be intimidated by threats of losing federal funding or their tax-exempt status if they help students who are in the country illegally.

Institutions need to have the backbone to do this, she told them. It will be a fight. I really encourage institutions to not be scared immediately by these threats.

But the toughest issue, she said, is the uncertainty over Trumps intentions.

How ominous was a tweet from U.S. immigration officials this year saying deferred action on deportations is discretionary? How hopeful are new data showing that approvals of DACA applications more than tripled to 125,000 between January and March of this year over the same period last year?

Blanco simply doesnt know. At the moment, she and her team have altered their earlier advice against new applications for DACA and are now willing to consider filing them for students with squeaky clean records.

But that may change  again and again.

Youre constantly trying to read between the lines, and the lines keep changing, she said.

To read the article in spanish, click here

Times staff writer Rosanna Xia contributed to this story.

teresa.watanabe@latimes.com

Twitter: @teresawatanabe

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Young American women are poorer than their mothers and grandmothers were when they were young, more likely to commit suicide and be shut out of high-paying tech jobs  an overall demise in well-being since the baby boom generation.

Those are the findings in a new report by the Population Reference Bureau, a nonprofit that looks at population and other development issues. It found that social and structural barriers continue to obstruct the advancement of female members of Generation X and millennials.

For experts working on womens issues, the reports conclusions came as no surprise.

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We have been pushed back, theres no question, said Terry ONeill, president of the National Organization for Women. Younger women are really feeling the effects of ... a 30-year march to dismantle government agencies, to dismantle government protections, all in the name of free markets.

We have been pushed back, theres no question.  Terry ONeill, president, National Organization for Women

The report used 14 measures to assess well-being  such as earning capacity, education and health  to calculate the magnitude of the change between the status of young women today relative to women in their mothers and grandmothers generations when they were the same age.

We expected to see that there would be certain subgroups of women that would be doing much worse than others, but we were surprised to find that women overall were doing worse than the previous generation, said Mark Mather, associate vice president of U.S. programs at Population Reference Bureau and co-author of the report.

Members of the Baby Boom generation, who were born between 1946 and 1964, saw their well-being increase by 66% over their World War II counterparts, but the improvements did not continue for Generation X women, born between 1965 and 1981. They experienced a 2% gain in well-being relative to the Baby Boomers, while millennial women, born between 1982 and 2002, experienced a 1% decline in well-being, according to the report.

Improvements in young womens economic security began to stagnate during the mid-1990s, and their struggles have continued into the millennial generation, particularly among women without college degrees, the report said.

In addition to health, education and earning capacity, the Population Reference Bureau considered other measures of well-being, including teen birth and maternal mortality rates, the prevalence of cigarette smoking and incarceration rate.

The eroding social safety net, violence against women, unequal pay  the Bureau of Labor Statistics put the median weekly earnings of full-time working men at $895 in 2015 compared to $726 for womenwere other factors hindering the overall well-being of young women, according to the report.

African American women, Latinas, American Indian and Alaska native women were most susceptible to bad outcomes, compared to their white and Asian American counterparts, Mather said.

The report found that the proportion of women aged 30 to 34 years old living in poverty had increased to around 17% for the millennial generation, up from 12% for Generation X females. While Generation X women comprised 1 in 4 workers in high-paying STEM occupations, the statistic dropped to 1 in 5 for millennial females, according to the report.

Such trends are being targeted by the White House, which hosted a womens empowerment panel in March. In February, President Trump signed a pair of bills into law aimed at recruiting more women for the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. But such efforts take time to take root.

If you dont have a college degree today it is very difficult to make enough to support yourself and your family, said Mather. And for people in low-wage jobs its not just that they dont have enough earnings, they often dont have very good benefits.

If they have young children its often hard for them to find affordable childcare, and transportation costs are high, Mather said.

An analysis by the Center for American Progress, a Washington-based independent nonpartisan policy institute, found that the average annual cost of childcare for an infant younger than 12 months old is $18,000 a year for a 45-hour work week. Thats more than the entire annual income of a parent who is earning the federal minimum wage for those hours, said Sunny Frothingham, the organizations senior researcher for womens economic policy. And the majority of minimum wage earners are in that 16- to 34-year-old age range.

Shilpa Phadke, the institutes senior director of Womens Initiative, noted, If we look at this particular generation of millennials, they came of age during the recession, they had to search for jobs in a really tough labor market, and were looking to higher education as student debt was skyrocketing.

The Population Reference Bureau report also found that millennial women faced higher rates of maternal mortality than their mothers and grandmothers and were also more likely to commit suicide. In addition, the proportion of women imprisoned had increased 10-fold between the World War II generation and the millennial generation.

The report also identified several positive trends for young women, including a decline in the high school dropout rate, and an increase in the number of women with at least a bachelors degree. Disparity in earnings and business ownership has also diminished for women since World War II, and teen births are at historic lows. Successive generations have seen more women elected to Congress and state legislatures.

But the positive trends failed to outweigh the negative, Mather said.

Today were just seeing much less progress across the board, and as a result it didnt take a whole lot to drag down the overall index of well-being so that we saw this negative result for millennial women, he said.

ann.simmons@latimes.com

For more on global development news, see our Global Development Watch page, and follow me @AMSimmons1 on Twitter

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Since Donald Trump became president, commentary about his public statements, tweeting habits, predilections and even his personality have become something of a national pastime.

Some in the professional psychiatric community have been moved to join in, offering their own expert analysis on why the president says what he says and does what he does.

But should they? Not according to the American Psychiatric Assn., which years ago adopted a rule for its 37,000 licensed members against offering a public opinion about the mental health or general psychological makeup of a public figure.

Its known as the Goldwater Rule, and in the era of President Trump, its suddenly the subject of vigorous discussion  most recently at a meeting of the American Psychiatric Assn. last month in San Diego.

So what exactly is the Goldwater Rule?

Here are some details:

What is the Goldwater Rule?

Its officially known as Section 7.3 of the American Psychiatric Assn.s code of ethics.

This is how the organizations ethics committee defines it: On occasion psychiatrists are asked for an opinion about an individual who is in the light of public attention or who has disclosed information about himself/herself through public media. In such circumstances, a psychiatrist may share with the public his or her expertise about psychiatric issues in general. However, it is unethical for a psychiatrist to offer a professional opinion unless he or she has conducted an examination and has been granted proper authorization for such a statement.

So why is it called the Goldwater Rule?

The rule dates back to an incident during the 1964 election between Democratic President Lyndon B. Johnson and his Republican challenger, Sen. Barry Goldwater of Arizona. Throughout the campaign Democrats and even some Republicans relentlessly assailed Goldwater as a demagogue and a leader of right-wing extremism.

In September 1964, Fact Magazine, which is now defunct, published The Unconscious of a Conservative: A Special Issue on the Mind of Barry Goldwater. The magazine queried about 12,300 psychiatrists on whether Goldwater was psychologically fit to be president. Only about 2,400 psychiatrists responded to the magazines request, and of those about 1,200 said Goldwater was unfit for the job.

In 1966, two years after being trounced in the election, the Arizona senator sued the magazine for libel, and a federal jury awarded him $75,000 in punitive damages. Four years later, the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal of the case.

Although the American Psychiatric Assn. had no direct involvement in the case, some viewed it as a blemish on psychiatry. So in 1973, the new rule was adopted by the groups ethics board. Members who break it could be kicked out of the organization but do not lose their medical licenses.

So theres been talk about reevaluating the rule?

Indeed.

In the decades after the rule went into effect, little debate took place over its merits. Then came the 2016 presidential election .

As Trump and his Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, battled in a vitriolic campaign, some members of the American Psychiatric Assn. broke the rule and voiced concerns about what they described as Trumps erratic and impulsive behavior. They said it would be a disservice to the public to not speak out.

Maria A. Oquendo, then-president of the association, responded with an open letter to members in August.

We live in an age where information on a given individual is easier to access and more abundant than ever before, particularly if that person happens to be a public figure, she wrote. With that in mind, I can understand the desire to get inside the mind of a presidential candidate.

But she argued that if psychiatrists are allowed to make diagnoses without seeing a patient, the public could lose confidence in the field and mental health patients could feel stigmatized by their own diagnoses and less inclined to seek help.

Simply put, breaking the Goldwater Rule is irresponsible, potentially stigmatizing, and definitely unethical, she wrote.

Did Trumps victory elevate discourse on the issue?

Yes. Shortly after Trump entered the White House more than two dozen prominent psychiatrists wrote a letter to the editor of the New York Times expressing discontent with the Goldwater Rule.

Silence from the countrys mental health organizations has been due to a self-imposed dictum about evaluating public figures (the American Psychiatric Associations 1973 Goldwater Rule), they wrote. But this silence has resulted in a failure to lend our expertise to worried journalists and members of Congress at this critical time. We fear that too much is at stake to be silent any longer.

A billboard during the 1964 presidential campaign. (Duane Howell / Denver Post) (Duane Howell / Denver Post)

How did the American Psychiatric Assn. react to the letter?

It strongly pushed back.

In a March statement, the organization reaffirmed its support for the Goldwater Rule.

It was unethical and irresponsible back in 1964 to offer professional opinions on people who were not properly evaluated and it is unethical and irresponsible today, Oquendo said in March. In the past year, we have received numerous inquiries from member psychiatrists, the press and the public about the Goldwater Rule. We decided to clarify the ethical underpinnings of the principle and answer some of the common questions raised by our members. APA continues to support these ethical principles.

During a recent interview, Dr. Rebecca Weintraub Brendel, a consultant to the associations ethics committee, said a physician cant arrive at a diagnosis without an examination that considers underlying causes of an individuals behavior, including medical conditions.

For example, someone with diabetes could act erratically or confused because their blood sugar levels need to be adjusted, Brendel said. Also, publicly discussing someones mental state without an examination is potentially stigmatizing for those with mental illness and could lead them to avoid treatment for fear of having their condition publicly discussed or out of concern about the methods of diagnosis.

What about the dissenters?

Its a silly rule, said Lance Dodes, a Los Angeles-based psychiatrist and retired clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, who was among those to sign the letter. The APA is not protecting Donald Trump; theyre protecting themselves.

Dodes, a former member of the association, believes Trumps presidency could hurt national security.

He has an antisocial personality disorder, Dodes said. This is not difficult to diagnose. Its clear to see.

John Zinner, a clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at George Washington University, says many Americans are scared and concerned about Trumps behavior and that his field has a responsibility to speak out.

People are afraid he could create havoc due to his impulsiveness, Zinner said.

So where do things stand now?

The rule remains in place.

In May, at its annual meeting in San Diego, the association held a panel discussion weighing the pros and cons of the rule.

Ultimately it was an effort to create a public discourse around the issue.

Ellen Covey, a professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington, says it is appropriate for mental health professionals to condemn specific patterns of behavior such as habitual lying, blatant disrespect for others, self-contradiction and erratic behavior as inappropriate for a person holding a public office.

But thats different than making a diagnosis, she said.

Such behavior patterns can be pointed out without the need to label them as a specific psychopathology, she said. The behavior speaks for itself.

kurtis.lee@latimes.com

Twitter: @kurtisalee

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When it comes to picking colleges, Americans are terrible consumers. Students hear rumors from friends about which of the nations 4,000-plus colleges and universities are the best. Worse, they depend on U.S. News and World Report-type rankings that universities can manipulate without improving the quality of the education provided. The average American has better access to information about $60 coffeemakers than $60,000 a year universities.

A new Gallup poll, though it doesnt specifically address college choice, highlights that students applying to college dont seem to know what kind of higher education will bring them the most satisfaction. They pay for their ignorance not only in debt, but in longstanding regrets.

The poll, unveiled earlier in June, asked 95,000 randomly selected people with various levels of education  from college dropouts to PhDs  to reflect on their college experience, including whether they wished theyd attended a different institution.

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Ranking systems tend to value prestige even though the Gallup poll indicates that might not bring students satisfaction down the road.

The results were sometimes surprising. Twenty-three percent of people who make $250,000 or more said they would choose a different college if they had it to do all over again. That was less than the 31% at the extreme edge of poverty  but not all that much less.

People who had attended pricey private colleges were barely more satisfied with their choices than those at public schools, even though public universities generally have bigger class sizes and fewer amenities. And those who attended selective colleges were only somewhat less likely to have regrets than those who went to schools where the bar for entry is far lower. Large amounts of student debt, predictably, made people much less satisfied with their choice of a college.

Perhaps outcomes are so bad because college rating systems, which have proliferated in recent years, never address this most basic of consumer questions: Are the buyers  the students  happy with their choices down the line?

Ranking systems tend to value prestige even though the Gallup poll indicates that might not bring students satisfaction down the road. The formula used by U.S. News, for example, depends heavily on surveys of academics; in other words, professors and administrators rating each others colleges, a fairly meaningless popularity contest among a rarefied group who might have very different priorities than students.

Professors salaries are used as a proxy for instructional excellence. And U.S. News and other rankings continue to rely too much on selectivity as a measure of excellence: student SAT scores, acceptance rates and the like.

Forbes, which prides itself on measuring outcomes, uses salaries after graduation as the biggest indicator of quality. But as the Gallup poll shows, a hefty portion of even the highest-paid Americans express dissatisfaction with their college experiences. And what about the people who enter social work, teaching, advocacy, nonprofit work, the arts  careers that dont pay notably well? Their paychecks dont make them any less successful.

Bashing college-rankings systems has long been popular  and justified  because they tend to tell you more about what sorts of high school students gain admission and how much money the institution has in the bank than whether students have a worthwhile experience. In the rankings defense, though, information about the most meaningful factor  student satisfaction over the long haul, as measured by randomized polling  isnt available.

It should be. Colleges should poll their own students and alumni about their educational experiences on a regular basis. And so that the results can be compared from one school to another, the questions and methodologies should be standardized across schools. Fewer cash-strapped students would attend private schools if they knew they were about as likely to be satisfied with a public university at less than half the price.

Brandon Busteed at Gallup suggested that the nations accrediting agencies could require such polling each time that re-accreditation time rolls around, every several years. Thats enough; despite what U.S. News would have you believe, colleges dont change much from one year to the next.

Of course, it takes more than just a consumer poll to create a useful ranking; otherwise every student who wanted to whine about a bad grade could hold colleges hostage. But instead of using proxies for students educational experience  professors salaries, class sizes and the like  colleges should go straight to the source.

Karin Klein writes about education for The Times editorial board.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook

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Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke plans to advise President Trump to shrink Utahs Bears Ears National Monument to a scatter of isolated sites. The secretarys recommendation, announced last week, is one more act of disrespect and arrogance in a story that began in 1492.

In December, President Obama proclaimed the Bears Ears monument, adding new protections for cultural resources on 1.35 million acres of public land in San Juan County, Utah, while preserving traditional uses for both Indians and ranchers. Native nations  especially the Hopi, Navajo, Zuni and two Ute tribes that make up the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition  led the campaign for the creation of the monument on what for them is ancestral, sacred land.

The Bears Ears proclamation was historic, creating an innovative tribal commission to help manage the monument. The new preserve grants traditional ecological knowledge amassed by the Native Americans the status of a resource to be protected and used in understanding and managing this landscape sustainably for generations to come.

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At the core of that understanding of the land is a sense of wholeness, of interconnection. As the Inter-Tribal Coalition said in response to Zinkes announcement, The Bears Ears region is not a series of isolated objects, but the object itself, a connected, living landscape, where the place, not a collection of items, must be protected.

When Zinke came to Utah in May on a listening tour, he spent just one hour with the leaders of the Inter-Tribal Coalition.

When Zinke came to Utah in May on a listening tour, he spent just one hour with the leaders of the Inter-Tribal Coalition and several days with politicians ferociously intent on undoing Obamas legacy. One of them, Utah Sen. Orrin Hatch, dismissed seven years of grass-roots work by Indian people, in Indian country, who gathered the data necessary to propose significant protection for Bears Ears.

The tribes, the GOP senator said, were manipulated by the far left. The Indians, he said, they dont fully understand that a lot of the things that they currently take for granted on those lands, they wont be able to do. Just take my word for it.

Indian people have good reason not to take Hatch  or any white person  at his word. Like every Native Nation, the tribes of the Bears Ears coalition have endured centuries of white people trampling on promises.

In 1864, the U.S. Army burned Navajo homes, fields and orchards, forcing families off their land. A few Navajo escaped this Long Walk, retreating to the fringes of Navajo Country around Navajo Mountain and the Bears Ears Buttes in southern Utah. Thats one reason they hold the area in such regard.

The Ute people ranged throughout the Rocky Mountains, from present-day Denver to Salt Lake City and south to the Bears Ears. Theyve lost all but the driest corners of this homeland.

In 1868, the U.S. government granted Colorado Utes the western third of that state. Then gold was discovered in the San Juan Mountains. By 1882, northern Ute bands were forced to move to the Utah desert. Congress promised the southern Utes 3 million acres in Utahs San Juan County and, again, never delivered.

As scholar Floyd ONeill says of the 20th century Utes, The Indians continued to be the dispossessed in all areas of life: property, education, and employment.

The Pueblo members of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, the Hopi and the Zuni, have been fighting for land around their villages since the Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1540.

Utah officials who oppose Bears Ears conveniently ignore the fact that these Native nations survive. When county commissioners speak against the monument and for the people of San Juan County, they mean white people. When they rail against large out-of-state groups and Washington  bureaucrats, they fail to acknowledge that the Bears Ears proposal came from the tribes.

And when County Commissioner Bruce Adams calls his Mormon ancestors the first settlers in the southern Utah wilderness, he neglects the Native people who have lived in these canyons for more than 12,000 years. Indeed, San Juan County was more densely populated in Ancestral Puebloan times than it is today, when half its residents are still Navajo or Ute Mountain Ute.

Many reasons exist to cherish and sustain Bears Ears National Monument. Until the monument designation, this was the most important unprotected archaeological district in North America. Its an untapped treasure of recreational, paleontological and ecologic resources, and conservation biologists have clearly established the importance of preserving it as a large landscape rather than isolated parcels.

But the most important reason to decry Zinkes shortsighted capitulation to Utahs anti-public-lands politicians is that diminishing the monument would break yet another government commitment to the Native nations.

The American people, Congress and the president should insist that Bears Ears remains the monument envisioned by Navajo leader Willie Grayeyes, a place for Native people to be respected, to be heard and to be understood.

Stephen Trimble is the editor of Red Rock Stories: Three Generations of Writers Speak on Behalf of Utahs Public Lands and author of The People: Indians of the American Southwest.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook

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The only thing planet Earth hates more than CO2 is the CO2 that comes from hot puffs of hypocrisy. And in the weeks since President Trump announced he is withdrawing the United States from the Paris climate agreement, temperatures have been rising.

I know were angry about the direction our country is heading. To many of us, President Trumps decision to withdraw from the accord is a crime against humanity and an unfathomable act of arrogance. But here is another bit of unsavory news for the people crying about climate change but still driving to In-N-Out: You are a part of the problem just as much as Donald Trump. If you want government to regulate business, but choose to ignore that, without our purchases, there would be no business, you are just as culpable as the CEO of Exxon Mobil who only sells a product that we demand.

But fear not  there is something we can still do. If Gov. Jerry Brown can sign a climate pact with Beijing, we can sign one with ourselves too.

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Im calling it the Paris workout plan. Get your footprint right for the summer.

1. Repeat after me: Beef is bad

I admit it  the first time I came to L.A. I immediately demanded to go to In-N-Out. After all, if you dont gram a pic of yourself with your Animal-style burger, did you even come to L.A. at all? The problem with this is that beef production uses 28 times the amount of land that pork or chicken does, and emits five times the CO2 thanks to cows smelly methane farts and the fertilizer it takes to grow their food. As tasty as beef is, eating it while we are on the crest of an environmental crisis is no longer cool. Next time someone orders hanger steak, look at them like they just ordered kitten.

Luckily, these days, there are so many more delicious options besides kitten. You dont even have to cut meat out altogether. If you do go veg though, youll be reducing your carbon footprint from food by more than two-thirds. As we acquire 3 billion new mouths to feed over the next 30 years, reducing this particular source of carbon is one of the most important things you can do.

2. Quit glorifying consumer culture

We glorify consumer culture when we buy things we dont need and fawn over people with studio-sized closets. Consumerism is a tough habit to kick because society equates status with how much stuff we own, and love with how much stuff were given. Celebrities reinforce this norm by modeling lavish lifestyles on Instagram, where we endorse them with likes by the millions. But what exactly are we promoting? That pic of Kims PJ is super sexyuntil you realize it has the carbon footprint of a large, soot-breathing dragon.

Instead of trying to imitate the rich and famous, why not do a capsule closet? Invest in a few high-quality pieces and wear them for the rest of your life. Or pop some tags in your local thrift store. When you do shop for new items, train yourself to think about how they were made and where they come from. In the abstract magic of the marketplace, where oil masquerades as plastic and China seems close by, it is easy to forget that everything we consume costs energy. Yet this is the very fact you must remember.

3. Reconsider your flying/driving habit

As it turns out, it takes a lot of energy to blast hundreds people into the sky and keep them from falling down. A round-trip flight from New York to L.A. produces over two tons of carbon. To put that in perspective, the average American produces about 19 carbon tons over the course of the year, while a European produces 10. The global average is four. While cars still have a far larger cumulative footprint than planes, that is because more people drive every day than fly.

So what am I supposed to do? I hear many of you thinking. All my loved ones live on the East Coast, while I am in California. Its not my fault I was born in the United States and not Liechtenstein.

When you hit a wall like this in your in your Paris workout plan, take a deep breath and control what you can. I cant stop flying today either, but I did sell my car. I take the bus to work now, which reduces my commuting footprint by about two-thirds.

As for the harder things, like flying, its time to start having regular and urgent conversations about what a more locally based society would look like. What if we stayed in the places where we were born? What if we only produced foods that grow naturally where we live? Its a world with less choice, but its also still Earth. The reality of climate change means that we can either elect to live more locally and with less, or perhaps not at all.

The most important part of the Paris workout plan is to focus on what you came here for. No one ever said getting the results you want for the planet would be easy. Just that theyd be worth it.

Cassady Rosenblum is an intern in The Times Opinion section.

cassady.rosenblum@latimes.com

@cassadyariel
We may not know exactly why or how University of Virginia student Otto Warmbier fell into a coma while imprisoned in North Korea. But everything else that happened to Warmbier we know was outrageous and horrific: arrested on a group tour for, supposedly, taking a propaganda poster off a hotel wall; paraded through a farce of a trial where he sobbed for forgiveness and mercy; sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. Then, according to the North Koreans, he fell into a coma and was kept imprisoned in that state for more than a year before they finally released him  no doubt because they didnt want him to die on their watch or because a dead American is suddenly no longer a valuable pawn in their twisted game of global diplomacy. He died six days after the North Koreans shipped his nearly lifeless body home.

Of course, we already knew that Kim Jong Un, North Koreas depraved leader, starves his own people, tortures them when they misbehave and is desperately pursuing nuclear capability. He is even believed to have had his own uncle killed. In a 2014 report, the United Nations Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights in North Korea documented state-ordered murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment, and rape and concluded that the magnitude of this brutality made it a state that does not have any parallel in the contemporary world. Human Rights Watch says people accused of serious political offenses are usually sent to prison camps where they get little food and almost no medical care and lack proper housing and clothing. U.S. and South Korean officials estimate that 80,000 to 120,000 prisoners are being held in these camps. The North Korean government says they dont exist.

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So although Warmbiers fate is tragic, it is not unusual  for North Koreans. But its a reminder that North Koreas leaders have placed their country not just in an economic and geographic isolation but in a kind of isolation from global humanity. Three Americans remain imprisoned in North Korea. If Kim wants any connection to the rest of the world  beyond China  he should strongly consider releasing them immediately. But, even then, tens of thousands will remain in captivity.

carla.hall@latimes.com

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
To the editor: I agree that predatory litigation has been inflicted on businesses nationwide over the Americans With Disabilities Act. While Californias share of the ADA lawsuits across the U.S. has dropped to about 36%, it is still significant because we only have 12% of the population. Still, Californias share dropped only because filings in several other states have increased. (Is your companys website accessible to the disabled? Youd better hope so, Opinion, June 11)

There were two reforms in 2016 that some thought would help improve the problem of ADA access lawsuits, but federal courts in California (where state law reforms have insignificant effect) saw a 45% increase in ADA lawsuits filed in 2016 compared to 2015.

A common-sense fix would be HR 620, sponsored by Rep. Ted Poe (R-Texas), which would reduce the number of drive-by lawsuits because plaintiffs would be required to give business owners a written notice of the violation. After that, the owners would have 120 days to fix the problem.

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The bill has broad bipartisan support, including backing by Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Vista) and Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Hillsborough), and it is endorsed by California Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse.

Robert Donin, Los Angeles

The writer is a former board member of California Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
To the editor: If ever there was a matter of public policy that cries out for nonpartisan expertise, it is the design of a healthcare system. In respect to complexity, resource demands and susceptibility to the undue influence of special interests, our healthcare system surpasses all other American institutions  and we all depend on it. (The Senate is about to ram through Trumpcare. This is not a drill; its an emergency, Opinion, June 13)

The process underway in the Senate to redesign our healthcare system is unencumbered by facts and dominated by sterile ideology. The sick will suffer when the system fails, as it surely will if the current process continues.

Responsible members of Congress still have it within their power to speak up and redirect this shameful exercise. We can only hope that a loud and clear message from an aroused American public will make this happen.

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Richard Ugoretz, MD, San Diego

..

To the editor: Scott Lemieux is right to condemn Senate Republicans for writing their version of the American Health Care Act in secret, without any input either from Democrats or affected individuals or businesses. But hes wrong when he writes, There is no recent precedent for anything like this closed process for such a major bill.

This is how Republicans have been operating for years in states like Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and Kansas, where they have control of the governorship and legislature. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is merely bringing those tactics to Washington so he can push through unpopular measures before anyone has a chance to organize against them.

Mark Gabrish Conlan, San Diego

..

To the editor: The leftist idea that Republicans want to gut healthcare for the poor so they can lower taxes for their rich masters is getting stale. What Republicans should be doing is reducing their healthcares scope to make it more affordable.

As economist Thomas Sowell observed, Insurance covering everything from baldness treatments to sex-change operations is more expensive than insurance covering only major illnesses that can drain your life savings.

As for reducing tax rates for the rich, thats how you make the rich possibly pay more in taxes. Federal revenue will increase if wealthy investors can make more money investing in the economy instead of keeping cash in tax shelters.

Patrick M. Dempsey, Granada Hills

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
June 19, 2017, 12:23 p.m. California bill aims to revive broadband privacy rules that were killed by Trump and Congress

A woman works on her laptop in the Rose Main Reading Room of the New York Public Library. (Mark Lennihan / Associated Press)

Several months ago, President Trump signed into law a repeal of sweeping privacy regulations limiting what broadband providers can do with customer data. Now, an Assembly Democrat is trying to resuscitate those rules for Californians.

Assemblyman Ed Chau (D-Monterey Park) unveiled a measure on Monday that would largely enshrine the sputtered federal regulations into California state law. The bill would require Internet service providers, such as Verizon, Comcast and AT&T, to get permission from customers before using, selling or permitting access to data about their browsing history.

Such restrictions were crafted by the Federal Communications Commission under the Obama administration. But the FCC under Trump sought to roll back those rules before they went into effect. Congress approved the repeal in March, and the president signed it.

Congress and the administration went against the will of the vast majority of Americans when they revoked the FCC rules, Chau said at a news conference, adding that with his measure, AB 375, California is going to restore what Washington stripped away.

California is the 20th state to introduce a bill to restore privacy rules in the wake of the action in Washington. Supporters of the bill acknowledged that theyll face stiff opposition from Internet service providers and a possible challenge over whether these state-level regulations conflict with federal law.

Ernesto Falcon, legislative counsel for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said he was confident the proposed bill would not be preempted by federal law, because communications law has traditionally allowed a division of responsibilities between the state and federal government.

Joining Chau at a Capitol news conference was an array of privacy advocates and consumer groups boosting the bill.

AB 375 means that no Californian will be forced to pay for access to the Internet with their money and their privacy rights, said Becca Cramer, legislative coordinator for the American Civil Liberties Union of California.
The Supreme Court agreed Monday to decide whether partisan gerrymandering  in which voting districts are drawn to favor one party  is a time-honored American political tradition or has evolved into an unconstitutional rigging of elections.

The Wisconsin case of Gill vs. Whitford, to be heard in the fall, could yield one of the most important rulings on political power in decades.

Gerrymandering has been derided for generations, often mocked in cartoons depicting bizarre-shaped districts that look like salamanders or spiders.

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But in recent decades, because of software programs, gerrymandered maps look less obvious and are more effective in giving one party an insurmountable advantage. The maps can all but ensure that the party in power at the beginning of a decade  when districts are drawn  will keep control of a state legislature and win most of a states seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Democrats maintain that the Republican Party has used its control of electoral maps after the 2010 census to give Republicans an unfair grip on power in Congress.

For example, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan are closely divided states in terms of party affiliation and all voted for former President Obama. Yet 34 of their 48 House representatives are Republican largely because of gerrymandering.

North Carolinas electoral map was rejected by the Supreme Court recently for illegally using race in an effort to create more GOP-leaning districts. It sends 10 Republicans and three Democrats to the House, even though statewide races often reflect a population that is narrowly divided.

Democrats have played the same game, although they now control far fewer states. In Maryland, Democrats drew a map that allowed their party to control seven of the eight seats in the House.

What is unclear is whether the justices see this as politics as usual. The Supreme Court has viewed political gerrymandering as distasteful but not illegal. The justices have never struck down a states electoral map because it was unfairly partisan, though they have outlawed gerrymandering along racial lines.

Voting rights advocates are hopeful that it will be different this time. They say party leaders have gone too far in rigging the system in their favor.

Paul Smith, a lawyer for the Campaign Legal Center, said gerrymandering is worse now than any time in recent memory. He represents a dozen Democratic voters from Wisconsin who sued the state over its electoral map for the state Assembly.

The map makes it likely the GOP will win a supermajority of seats in the Assembly even when more votes are cast statewide for Democrats than for Republicans.

In 2012, 51% of Wisconsin voters cast ballots for Democrats in the state legislative races, compared with 48.6% for Republicans. But Republicans still won 60 of the 99 seats in the Assembly.

Last year, a three-judge federal panel agreed with the challengers and ruled 2 to 1 that the Wisconsin map was unconstitutional. The maps motivating factor was an intent to entrench a political party in power, said Judge Kenneth Ripple, a Reagan appointee to the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago. The judges cited the work of University of Chicago law professor Nicholas Stephanopoulos, who devised a mathematical formula that showed the Wisconsin plan was an extreme gerrymander.

Trevor Potter, president of the Campaign Legal Center and former Republican chairman of the Federal Election Commission, urged the high court to affirm that decision. The threat of partisan gerrymandering isnt a Democratic or Republican issue. Its an issue for all American voters, he said. Were confident that when the justices see how pervasive and damaging this practice has become, the Supreme Court will adopt a clear legal standard that will ensure our democracy functions as it should.

The Republican National Committee does not share his assessment of the problem or the solution. Its lawyers urged the Supreme Court to take up the Wisconsin case and uphold the states map. They argued that their partys advantage reflects the reality of political geography. They say Democratic voters are concentrated in the cities, giving the GOP a big edge elsewhere. The Constitution contains no right to proportional representation in legislative bodies based on statewide totals, they argued.

Wisconsins attorney general directly appealed to the Supreme Court. The states lawyers said the districts were compact and neatly drawn. They said the Democrats are at a disadvantage because their voters are concentrated in Milwaukee and Madison.

They urged the court to overturn the lower-court ruling and throw out the claim on the grounds that redistricting is a political process, not a legal one. They also won a procedural ruling on Monday that could be a good omen for the Republicans.

Shortly after announcing the court would hear the case, the justices issued an order that put on hold the lower courts decision that required Wisconsin lawmakers immediately redraw the map for its legislative districts. The order came on a 5-4 vote. The four Democratic appointees  Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen G. Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan  dissented.

That means the courts five Republican appointees voted with Wisconsins Republican leaders. The five justices apparently agreed with the states argument that it should not be forced to redraw the map until the high court finally rules on its constitutionality. But the order also suggests they are skeptical of the lower courts ruling.

david.savage@latimes.com

Twitter: DavidGSavage

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UPDATES:

1:30 p.m.: This article was updated throughout with more background and analysis.

8 a.m.: This article was updated with the high courts order putting a hold on a lower-court order requiring Wisconsin to redraw the map for its legislative districts.

This article was originally published at 6:45 a.m.
Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck for the first time offered his full support for a bill that would prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies from carrying out immigration laws, calling it an important proposal that protects the trust between his department and the neighborhoods it polices.

This is not a soft-on-crime bill, Beck said Monday at a Los Angeles news conference, with former U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric Holder and Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon. This is not an anti-law enforcement bill. This is a bill that displays courage. The courage of Californians, the courage of Angelenos to understand that when we stand together we are much more effective than when we stand apart.

The endorsement is a boon for De Leon (D-Los Angeles), who authored Senate Bill 54 and has grappled with opposition from law enforcement groups over claims that it could weaken their ability to detain dangerous or repeat criminals. It came as Holder unveiled a letter to U.S. Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions arguing that the legislation is constitutional and not preempted by federal law.

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Holder was temporarily hired by the Senate and Assembly to serve as outside counsel to offer advice on the states legal strategy against the incoming administration. He and his firm, Covington & Burling, analyzed the legislation as part of that contract and concluded states have the power over the health and safety of their residents and allocation of state resources.

California is doing the right thing, Holder said of moving the bill through the Legislature. This is something that needs to be done nationwide.

Senate Bill 54, the so-called sanctuary state bill, was sparked by the Trump administrations broadened deportation orders. It would prohibit state and local law enforcement agencies, including school police and security, from using resources to investigate, detain, report or arrest people for immigration enforcement.

To address some concerns from police chiefs and sheriffs, De Leon amended the legislation to allow local and state officers to participate in task forces  and work alongside federal immigration officers  as long as their main purpose is not immigration enforcement. Other changes have loosened communication restrictions between local law enforcement agencies and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials concerning violent felons.

The latest provisions also allow law enforcement officers to contact and transfer people to ICE, with a judicial warrant, if they encounter someone who was previously deported for a violent felony. And they permit law enforcement to transfer or detain a person at the request of ICE if a judge finds there is probable cause to do so.

The latter amendment drew Becks approval. In the past, he has gone only so far as to say he agreed with the bills underlying tenets, but that he wanted to ensure police could still go after dangerous criminals.

On Monday, the police chief said he worked closely with De Leons office to ensure it addressed all law enforcement concerns, and that it struck a balance between public safety and preserving community trust. The legislation will allow officers to concentrate on violent criminals who are not in the country legally, he said, and if necessary, to use their illegal status to detain them.

He described the bill as a reflection of Californias values, his own and those of the Los Angeles Police Department, which he said had honored the Special Order 40. The 1979 mandate prevents officers from approaching people solely to inquire about immigration status.

We depend on our communities, particularly the immigrant communities, not only to keep them safe but to keep all of you safe, Beck said. Without that cooperation we all suffer.

But as President Trump and Sessions have threatened to slash federal funding from so-called sanctuary cities, the state legislation has continued to stir Republican lawmakers and sheriffs. They argue its provisions could strain the states finances and shield dangerous criminals.

The bill cleared its first hearing last week in the state Assembly, where Cory Salzillo, legislative director for the California State Sheriffs Assn., argued the legislation still lacked clarity on task forces, and would prevent vital collaboration among sheriffs and ICE officials. By prohibiting federal immigration officers from interrogating immigrants in jails, he said, it would force them to go into communities, potentially leading to the detention of more people.

ICE is going to do what ICE is going to do, and there will be collateral impact when ICE does that, Salzillo said.

De Leon countered that sheriffs were elected officials who operated in a different culture, but he pledged to continue working with them.

In Los Angeles on Monday, he pointed to an order from a federal judge blocking the presidents order to strip funds from municipal governments that refuse to cooperate fully with immigration agents.

Still, our local law enforcement officers are under threat of being commandeered into the presidents deportation forces, De Leon said. Senate Bill 54 will protect local police against a federal overreach that will have forced them to enforce immigration laws instead of carrying out the everyday duties that keep our communities safe.

California lawmakers attempt to increase oversight and restrictions on the detention of immigrants 

jazmine.ulloa@latimes.com

@jazmineulloa

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5:05 p.m.: This article was updated to include an additional amendment to the bill.

This article was originally published at 3:30 p.m.
Tom Steyer has some big decisions to make, and judging from his moves over the last few months, hes keeping his options open.

In California, the billionaire Democratic donor became known for fighting climate change and tapping his bank account to attack politicians who denied it.

More recently, he helped fund a successful state ballot measure to raise cigarette taxes, warned at the California Democratic Party convention of the corrupting influence of corporate America, and released a policy paper on the states growing income inequality.

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Now the former hedge fund manager who has spent tens of millions funding Democratic candidates and liberal causes across the country is mounting a challenge to President Trump on his own, going so far as to call for impeachment and use his nonprofit, NextGen Climate, to encourage citizens to lobby their congressional representatives for it.

As the 2018 race for governor heats up, Steyer must consider whether his time and money would be better spent fighting Trump and the Republican-led Congress, or bloodying fellow Democrats over the next year.

Steyer toyed with running for office when Californias former U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer announced her retirement in 2015, but he decided he could do more as a private citizen to promote justice in education, the economy and the environment. He said it was a hard decision.

Two years later, Steyer finds himself at a similar crossroads.

Weeks after Trump, a Republican, won the White House, a despondent Steyer, who had been pondering a run for governor, said he might forgo a run for office to focus on combating the threats posed by the Trump administration and Republican-led Congress, especially their attempts to dismantle environmental protections and deport millions of immigrants.

I think the threat to democracy that were seeing coming out of Washington, D.C., is as profound that Ive seen in my lifetime, the 59-year-old San Francisco resident said at a Public Policy Institute of California event in Sacramento in May.

But later the same month at the Democratic convention, he told reporters, We are considering our options.

Hes a bit different cat than your typical conventional politician, said Chris Lehane, a former Steyer political advisor who now serves as head of global policy for Airbnb. He asks, Where do I get the biggest leverage? In economics and finance, leverage is how you get the biggest return  He has transferred that same mode of thought [to] where he could have the biggest impact.

To that end, Steyer has used tens of millions of his fortune to back Democratic candidates and elevate climate change issues, and has also poured millions into a series of recent California ballot measures, a proven way for candidates to increase their statewide political profile.

Steyer spent more than $11 million on the successful effort in November to raise tobacco taxes to help fund healthcare and starred in the campaigns TV ads, saying the issue was personal for him because his mother was a three-pack-a-day smoker and died of lung cancer.

A governors race poll released in March by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies put Steyers support in the single digits. The institutes most recent poll, which didnt include Steyer or other undeclared candidates, showed 22% of likely California voters favored Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, also a Democrat, was a close second with 17%, followed by Republican John Cox at 9%, former GOP Assemblyman David Hadley at 7% and Democratic state Treasurer John Chiang at 5%.

That isnt too much of a concern for Democratic consultant Rose Kapolczynski, who has worked for Steyer and his various political endeavors over the last two years.

Everywhere we go, people urge him to run for office, said Kapolczynski, who wouldnt discuss whether Steyer has conducted his own polling. Those suggestions happen in every part of the state and at every kind of event.

Steyer declined a request for an interview, but Kapolczynski said he will decide on whether to run for office this year. The gubernatorial primary election is less than a year away.

Jumping into the governors race late could make the path to victory that much more difficult, because other candidates are already busy campaigning up and down the state, raising money and trying to lock up endorsements. Steyer may have a little leeway if he funds his own campaign, but that could open him up to attacks from opponents who may try to paint him as out of touch with real Californians.

phil.willon@latimes.com

Twitter: @philwillon

Updates on California politics

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You probably thought a state budget divvied up all the Sacramento tax money and parceled it to a zillion programs. It does. But these days it also can do things that past legislators never dreamed possible.

For example, a budget can  and did last week  change recall election rules to protect one of the Democrats own and dismantle a constitutionally ensconced, scandal-plagued tax board.

Neither of these moves  and others  had anything to do with budgeting. They had to do with making major policy changes under the guise of budgeting without giving the public much time to think about it.

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Credit  or blame  the unintended consequences of reform. Democrats cheer them. Republicans usually curse.

Lets back up. The Legislature used to embarrass itself nearly every summer by fuming and fussing over a budget, dawdling far into the new fiscal year without a spending plan. It stiffed local governments and private vendors. Seven years ago it stumbled all the way into the fall before finally passing a budget on Oct. 8.

That was enough. Voters got smart. That November, they approved a Democratic-backed ballot initiative to reduce the legislative vote requirement for passing a budget from a gridlocking two-thirds to a simple majority. And they decreed that if it wasnt passed by June 15, lawmakers be smacked with a harsh penalty: Theyd lose their pay.

Heres how $183 billion in taxpayer dollars will be spent in Californias new budget 

Legislators have met the deadline ever since. Budgets have been enacted before the new fiscal year begins on July 1.

The dynamics of budgeting have changed dramatically. Not only is it much easier to pass a budget  Democrats can do it alone without buying off Republicans  but a handy side-tool has been refined: the trailer bill.

Those are separate bills that trail the budget, ostensibly to implement it. Like the budget bill, they take effect immediately. But unlike the budget, they often are created in the dark without much legislative or public scrutiny.

Trailer bills have been around for many years. But they previously were tools mainly for paying pork to holdouts  usually Republicans  who finally agreed to support the budget. Those purchased votes no longer are needed. But trailer bills still live.

Theyre mostly used now by Democrats for slipping through touchy new policy. Stick a few token bucks in a bill and it becomes part of the budget. It sails through the Legislature on a partisan vote.

These bills are clever, theyre Machiavellian and too cute by half, Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa) complained during the Senate budget debate.

The trailer bill that really angered and surprised Republicans was one designed to protect freshman Democratic Sen. Josh Newman of Fullerton from a recall attempt.

The bill, supported by Gov. Jerry Brown, stretches out the recall process and practically ensures that voters wont be allowed to cast ballots until the June 2018 primary election. That will guarantee a much bigger voter turnout than what thered be at a lightly attended special recall election later this year. Democrats historically do better with larger turnouts.

The sneaky bill stinks. But so does the attempted recall. Ostensibly its to oust Newman for voting to raise gas taxes and car registration fees to finally fund repair of crumbling highways. Sorry, but making one tough vote is not a valid reason for recalling a lawmaker. Anyway, the real Republican goal is to eliminate the Democrats Senate supermajority.

Signature collectors are falsely telling people they can sign a recall petition and stop the car tax. Baloney. That would require a separate repeal initiative.

But Democrats sullied themselves by tucking their recall-protector into a broad-sweeping state administration bill and barely mentioning its true purpose during the Assembly debate. Whats more, another part of the measure could lead to development of a new veterans cemetery in Southern California, making a no vote potentially toxic politically. Republicans found that in particular poor taste.

It broke my heart to see this bald-faced political move, said Assemblyman Dante Acosta (R-Santa Clarita), whose military son was killed in Afghanistan. If you want to get my ire up, youll do this kind of thing.

In the other house, Senate leader Kevin De Leon (D-Los Angeles) asserted that Newman is being threatened by one of the most cynical, shameless and fraudulent abuses of California election law.

Democrats are afraid that if the GOP pulls this off, the party will keep using the strategy to whittle away at the Democratic majority in more low-turnout recalls. So theyre misusing the budget to outflank the right.

Republicans cant expect good government tactics when theyre engaged in cynical opportunism.

Good government, however, is justification for eviscerating the obscure state Board of Equalization. Its demise is long past due and has been discussed for decades. The Legislature finally acted after a highly critical state audit reported the misuse of money and staff, and political shenanigans.

Completely abolishing the five-member elected board would require voter approval of a constitutional amendment. So the simple trailer bill  stripping out 90% of the boards duties and giving them to a new state tax department  is the next best thing. And Brown will sign it.

This is 90 years too late, Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) asserted during the debate, citing a history of scandal.

Whistle blower after whistle blower has called, said Assembly Budget Committee Chairman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco).

For the record, the state budget will total $183 billion.

And it has morphed into a Magic Marker for rewriting all manner of public policy, a legislative game change.

george.skelton@latimes.com

Follow @LATimesSkelton on Twitter

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Trump promotes sons Justice with Judge Jeanine interview President Trump promoted via Twitter an interview with his son Eric Trump just before it aired Saturday night on Fox News Justice with Judge Jeanine. Eric Trump on @JudgeJeanine on @FoxNews now!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 Eric Trump called into the show to defend his father from criticism prompted by the first government shutdown in more than four years, as well as a series of Womens March events that saw protesters in dozens of cities take to the streets to oppose the presidents policies. .@EricTrump joined me over the phone from Mar-a-Lago ! pic.twitter.com/Hro3TzUW52  Jeanine Pirro (@JudgeJeanine) January 21, 2018 Speaking to host Jeannine Piro  who is reportedly an old friend of the presidents  Eric Trump offered effusive praise for his father, ticking off glowing statistics to illustrate the strength of the U.S. economy and gains against Islamic State fighters overseas. My fathers working like no ones ever worked before to bring back this country and to fulfill his promise to make America great again, said the executive vice president of the Trump Organization. He also repeated a sentiment recently expressed on Twitter by his father: That Democratic lawmakers forced a government shutdown on the anniversary of the presidents inauguration in a bid to distract from his achievements. You look at this whole government shutdown, and the only reason they want to shut down government is to distract and to stop his momentum, Eric Trump said. I mean, my father has had incredible momentum. Hes gotten more done in one year than arguably any president in history. Facebook

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Trump tweets: a perfect day for all Women to March President Trump hailed the nationwide Womens March gatherings Saturday. On Twitter, the president called it a perfect day for all Women to March, seeming to imply that those taking part were celebrating his administrations accomplishments: Beautiful weather all over our great country, a perfect day for all Women to March. Get out there now to celebrate the historic milestones and unprecedented economic success and wealth creation that has taken place over the last 12 months. Lowest female unemployment in 18 years!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Participants in the marches across the United States were actually seeking to deliver a powerful rebuke to Trumps policies and mount a crucial mobilization for this years midterm elections. But Trump continued to tout his administrations unprecedented success in tweets sent later in the day: Unprecedented success for our Country, in so many ways, since the Election. Record Stock Market, Strong on Military, Crime, Borders, & ISIS, Judicial Strength & Numbers, Lowest Unemployment for Women & ALL, Massive Tax Cuts, end of Individual Mandate - and so much more. Big 2018!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The Trump Administration has terminated more UNNECESSARY Regulation, in just twelve months, than any other Administration has terminated during their full term in office, no matter what the length. The good news is, THERE IS MUCH MORE TO COME!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 21, 2018 In addition to the roll call of major American cities where womens marches took place  including New York, Washington, Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta  protesters also raised their voices in suburbs and small towns, reflecting the aim of coalescing a broad-based movement on the anniversary of Trumps inauguration to oppose the presidents stance on immigration, healthcare, racial divides and an array of other issues. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

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Trump calls shutdown a present from Democrats By Associated Press President Trump is blaming Democrats for the government shutdown  tweeting that they wanted to give him a nice present to mark the one-year anniversary of his inauguration: This is the One Year Anniversary of my Presidency and the Democrats wanted to give me a nice present. #DemocratShutdown  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 That comes after Senate Democrats late Friday killed a GOP-written House-passed measure that would have kept agencies functioning for four weeks. Democrats were seeking a stopgap bill of just a few days in hopes that would build pressure on Republicans, and they were opposing a three-week alternative offered by GOP leaders. Democrats have insisted they would back legislation reopening the government once theres a bipartisan agreement to preserve protections against deporting about 700,000 immigrants  known as Dreamers  who arrived in the United States illegally as children. Trump on Saturday accused Democrats of holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration: Democrats are holding our Military hostage over their desire to have unchecked illegal immigration. Cant let that happen!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Democrats are laying fault for the shutdown on Republicans, who control both chambers of Congress and the White House and have struggled with building internal consensus. In a series of tweets hours after the shutdown began, the president tried to make the case for Americans to elect more Republicans to Congress in November in order to power through this mess: Democrats are far more concerned with Illegal Immigrants than they are with our great Military or Safety at our dangerous Southern Border. They could have easily made a deal but decided to play Shutdown politics instead. #WeNeedMoreRepublicansIn18 in order to power through mess!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 He noted that there are 51 Republicans in the 100-member Senate, and it often takes 60 votes to advance legislation: For those asking, the Republicans only have 51 votes in the Senate, and they need 60. That is why we need to win more Republicans in 2018 Election! We can then be even tougher on Crime (and Border), and even better to our Military & Veterans!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 #AMERICA FIRST!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 The stopgap spending measure won 50 votes in the Senate, including five from Democrats. Although the House and Senate were in session Saturday, it was unclear whether lawmakers would take any votes of consequence. Trump had been set to leave Friday afternoon for a fundraiser at his estate in Palm Beach, Fla., where he intended to mark the inauguration anniversary. But he remained in Washington and ended up scrapping his plans to attend the Saturday fundraiser. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweet casts doubt on likelihood of averting shutdown President Trump appeared to cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching a deal to avert a government shutdown Friday night in a tweet. Trump also sought to blame Democrats for what would be the first shutdown since 2013. His message came just hours before the midnight deadline by which lawmakers must pass a measure to fund government agencies, or some operations will cease. Not looking good for our great Military or Safety & Security on the very dangerous Southern Border. Dems want a Shutdown in order to help diminish the great success of the Tax Cuts, and what they are doing for our booming economy.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 20, 2018 Despite last-minute negotiations Friday between Trump and Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, Congress remained deadlocked over a spending bill and the federal government was headed toward a shutdown at midnight. Senate Democrats  joined by some GOP deficit hawks and immigration allies  were set to filibuster a stopgap funding bill approved by the House on Thursday. A Senate vote was planned for 10 p.m. Eastern, and even White House officials predicted it would fail. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Lisa Mascaro. Facebook

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Trump signs surveillance law after confusing tweets By Associated Press President Trump on Friday signed a bill into law to renew a foreign intelligence surveillance program, announcing his action in the latest in a series of confusing tweets about the spy program: Just signed 702 Bill to reauthorize foreign intelligence collection. This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 19, 2018 Trumps tweet on Jan. 11 created chaos in the House just before it voted to reauthorize what is known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He linked the intelligence program to a dossier that alleges his presidential campaign had ties to Russia. That caused people to wonder if he didnt support the program that allows U.S. spy agencies to collect intelligence on foreign targets abroad. Trump and other Republicans have alleged that Obama administration officials improperly shared the identities of Trump presidential transition team members mentioned in intelligence reports. Democrats say there is no evidence that happened. Shortly before the House vote, and after conferring with House Speaker Paul Ryan, Trump did an apparent about-face. This vote is about foreign surveillance of foreign bad guys on foreign land, he tweeted. We need it! Get smart! In his tweet announcing that he had just signed the bill, Trump wrote: This is NOT the same FISA law that was so wrongly abused during the election. I will always do the right thing for our country and put the safety of the American people first! There are no obvious links between the dossier Trump spoke of, which includes salacious but unsubstantiated allegations against him, and the reauthorization of the spying program, or between the program and Trumps oft-repeated claims that the Obama administration conducted surveillance on Trump Tower during the presidential campaign. Facebook

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In tweet, Trump suggests that Pennsylvania trip is a political one The White House press office was once again forced to walk back a tweet from President Trump on Thursday morning after he described a trip to Pennsylvania later in the day as a political one  a statement that would force the Republican Party, not taxpayers, to pay for the journey. The White House had said Trump was going to an industrial equipment company outside of Pittsburgh to highlight the good economy and new tax cuts, making it an official, policy-oriented event. It was widely assumed that the trip had a political cast  the area is holding a special election to fill a congressional seat vacated by a Republican who resigned. Trump, by his tweet, seemed to confirm that politics was the whole purpose: Will be going to Pennsylvania today in order to give my total support to RICK SACCONE, running for Congress in a Special Election (March 13). Rick is a great guy. We need more Republicans to continue our already successful agenda!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 Trump later shared via Twitter a pair of video clips of his speech at H&K Equipment, in which he touted the tax cuts he signed into law just before Christmas and tried to turn the conversation back to his accomplishments after weeks dominated by distractions, including questions about his mental health and comments about immigration that some considered racist: Departing Pittsburgh now, where it was my great honor to stand with our incredible workers, and to show the world that AMERICA is back - and we are coming back bigger and better and stronger than ever before! pic.twitter.com/kWPgylqFzj  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 AMERICA will once again be a NATION that thinks big, dreams bigger, and always reaches for the stars. YOU are the ones who will shape Americas destiny. YOU are the ones who will restore our prosperity. And YOU are the ones who are MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! #MAGA pic.twitter.com/f2abNK47II  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 18, 2018 The Republican National Committee, rather than the White House, is supposed to pay for political travel so that taxpayers are not financing party activities; for trips that combine policy and politics, parties have split the cost under past presidents. Neither the RNC nor the White House responded to emails sent Thursday asking who would pay. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement later Thursday suggesting that taxpayers would foot the bill. She insisted that Trump would be conducting government business while in Pennsylvania. Read More This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump tweets praise of Bob Dole after awarding him Congressional Gold Medal By Associated Press Former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole knew the art of the deal before President Trump published the 1987 book of the same name. The two shared a stage under the Capitol dome Wednesday as Dole, 94, accepted Congress highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal, for his World War II service and decades of work in the House and Senate. Trump later praised Dole in a tweet, attaching to his message a video composed of clips from the ceremony: Today, we witnessed an incredible moment in history  the presentation of Congress highest civilian honor to our friend, and true AMERICAN HERO, Bob Dole. #CongressionalGoldMedal pic.twitter.com/qNQqDLRmCk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 17, 2018 At the ceremony, the president saluted Dole as a patriot and gave tribute to Doles struggle as a veteran who worked his way back from a grievous shoulder wound he suffered in Italy. He knows about grit, said Trump. But it was Doles penchant for working across the aisle that earned him his latest award, according to the legislation. Bob Dole was known for his ability to work across the aisle and embrace practical bipartisanship, reads the legislation Trump signed in September. Some of the awards 300 recipients include George Washington and Mother Teresa, according to the Congressional Research Service. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts report that seeks to link terrorism cases with immigration By Joseph Tanfani The Trump administration on Tuesday released a report attempting to link terrorism with migration, arguing that it was evidence of the need to dramatically reshape the nations immigration system. New report from DOJ & DHS shows that nearly 3 in 4 individuals convicted of terrorism-related charges are foreign-born. We have submitted to Congress a list of resources and reforms....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 ....we need to keep America safe, including moving away from a random chain migration and lottery system, to one that is merit-based. https://t.co/7PtoSFK1n2  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The report, ordered by President Trump in an executive order last year, said that 75% of the 549 people convicted of terrorism charges since 9/11 were born outside the U.S. Administration officials called that a sign that the U.S. needs to scrap its policy of family preferences for visas, which they call chain migration, and a diversity visa lottery program. But the report did not specify how many  if any  of the convicted terrorists entered the country through those means. It also did not detail how many of the convictions were related to attacks or plans in the U.S. versus overseas and how many involved people who went to fight overseas for the Islamic State or another terrorist group. Those details were not available, officials said. The report, due last year, is being released in a highly charged moment in the immigration debate, as Trump and some Republicans in Congress seek tough new border and immigration measures in return for a deal protecting the 690,000 people in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. Trump also fired off a pair of tweets on the topic earlier Tuesday: We must have Security at our VERY DANGEROUS SOUTHERN BORDER, and we must have a great WALL to help protect us, and to help stop the massive inflow of drugs pouring into our country!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The Democrats want to shut down the Government over Amnesty for all and Border Security. The biggest loser will be our rapidly rebuilding Military, at a time we need it more than ever. We need a merit based system of immigration, and we need it now! No more dangerous Lottery.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The focus of our immigration system should be assimilation, a senior administration official said on Tuesday, speaking on condition that his name not be used. He said the nation should give priority to potential immigrants who speak English, who have an education and those who are committed to supporting our values  not family members of people already here. The official said the timing of the report was coincidental. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets welcome to president of Kazakhstan By Associated Press President Trump said Tuesday that he and the president of Kazakhstan are united in a shared determination to prevent North Korea from threatening the world with nuclear devastation. Trump and President Nursultan Nazarbayev discussed North Korea along with other issues during meetings at the White House. Today, it was my honor to welcome President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to the @WhiteHouse! pic.twitter.com/TerYFZViax  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 Trump said Kazakhstan, once part of the Soviet Union, is a valued partner in our efforts to rid the Korean peninsula of nuclear weapons. Together we are determined to prevent the North Korean regime from threatening the world with nuclear devastation, he said, as both presidents addressed journalists between meetings. Nazarbayev noted that his country once had one of the worlds largest nuclear arsenals but voluntarily gave it up after the Soviet Union collapsed. He said his country is in talks with Iran, which was the focus of a global deal that lifted some economic sanctions in exchange for Irans curbing its nuclear program. Trump has sharply criticized the Iran nuclear deal and threatened last week to pull out soon unless other countries fix what he says are terrible flaws. Read More Facebook

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Trump falsely claims his approval rating among black Americans has doubled By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump lashed out at the news media Tuesday morning in a tweet denouncing the special counsel investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and possible collusion among members of his campaign team. Do you notice the Fake News Mainstream Media never likes covering the great and record setting economic news, but rather talks about anything negative or that can be turned into the negative. The Russian Collusion Hoax is dead, except as it pertains to the Dems. Public gets it!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the presidents tweet, but it appeared as though he was watching Fox & Friends. A short time later, Trump tweeted a headline from a report that aired during that mornings episode: 90% of Trump 2017 news coverage was negative -and much of it contrived!@foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 The segment focused on the latest survey results from conservative watchdog Media Research Center, which purportedly analyzed the evening news broadcasts on ABC, CBS and NBC from Jan. 20 to Dec. 31 and found that 90% of the statements made about Trump were negative. Study: 90% of Trump media coverage in 2017 was negative pic.twitter.com/vbrwup4Drg  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 16, 2018 But believe it or not, through all this negative coverage, they did a survey of 600,000 people about how black America views this president, co-host Brian Kilmeade said. His numbers have actually doubled in approval. Trump highlighted the statement in another tweet: Unemployment for Black Americans is the lowest ever recorded. Trump approval ratings with Black Americans has doubled. Thank you, and it will get even (much) better! @FoxNews  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 16, 2018 But its not true. The claim appears to have originated from a misreading of data from the online polling firm SurveyMonkey, according to factcheck.org. The firm polled 600,000 Americans in 2017 and found that Trumps approval rating among blacks actually dropped from 23% early in his presidency to about 17%, as of the week ending Jan. 3. Some conservative outlets, including Breitbart, produced an average from those and other SurveyMonkey figures and compared them to the scores Trump received from black voters in the 2016 exit polls. That methodology is not sound. And since the statistics measure different things, the comparison is misleading. Facebook

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Trump goes after senator who surfaced his immigration remark By Associated Press President Trump turned his Twitter torment Monday on the Democrat in the room where immigration talks with lawmakers took a famously coarse turn, saying Sen. Richard J. Durbin misrepresented what he had said about African nations and Haiti and, in the process, undermined the trust needed to make a deal. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting, Trump tweeted, using a nickname to needle the Illinois senator. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military. Senator Dicky Durbin totally misrepresented what was said at the DACA meeting. Deals cant get made when there is no trust! Durbin blew DACA and is hurting our Military.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 Trump was referring to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which protects young people who came to the United States illegally as children. Members of Congress from both parties are trying to strike a deal that Trump would support to extend that protection. Trump also cast doubt on the likelihood of reaching an agreement in tweets sent earlier Monday: Statement by me last night in Florida: Honestly, I dont think the Democrats want to make a deal. They talk about DACA, but they dont want to help..We are ready, willing and able to make a deal but they dont want to. They dont want security at the border, they dont want.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 ...to stop drugs, they want to take money away from our military which we cannot do. My standard is very simple, AMERICA FIRST & MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 15, 2018 On a day of remembrance for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Trump spent time at his golf course with no public events, bypassing the acts of service that his predecessors staged in honor of the civil rights leader. Instead, Trump dedicated his weekly address to Kings memory, saying Kings dream and Americas are the same: A world where people are judged by who they are, not how they look or where they come from. That message was a distinct counterpoint to words attributed to Trump by Durbin and others at a meeting last week, when the question of where immigrants come from seemed at the forefront of Trumps concerns. Some participants and others familiar with the conversation said Trump challenged immigration from shithole countries of Africa and disparaged Haiti as well. Without explicitly denying using that word, Trump lashed out at the Democratic senator, who said Trump uttered it on several occasions. Read More Facebook

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Trump thanks pundit for laudatory Fox & Friends spot By Alex Wigglesworth President Trump thanked Fox News personality Stuart Varney after Varney praised Trump during an appearance on Fox & Friends. In a pair of tweets early Sunday, Trump quoted from Varneys commentary, in which he argued that Trump deserves more credit for the booming economy. The pundit, who also hosts a show on Fox Business Network, cited moves by some corporations to raise workers minimum wage or pay out one-time bonuses in response to the GOP tax cuts. President Trump is not getting the credit he deserves for the economy. Tax Cut bonuses to more than 2,000,000 workers. Most explosive Stock Market rally that weve seen in modern times. 18,000 to 26,000 from Election, and grounded in profitability and growth. All Trump, not 0...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 ...big unnecessary regulation cuts made it all possible (among many other things). President Trump reversed the policies of President Obama, and reversed our economic decline. Thank you Stuart Varney. @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 14, 2018 Varney was reacting to a quote from House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), who on Thursday called the bonuses handed down to workers pathetic in comparison to the gains corporations are expected to see from the tax cuts. In terms of the bonus that corporate America received versus the crumbs that they are giving to workers to kind of put the schmooze on is so pathetic, Pelosi told reporters. Its pathetic. Varney shot back Sunday that the bonuses, along with explosive stock market growth, are enriching all Americans. This is a huge shot in the arm, its the result of this tax cut deal and I think President Trump should get the credit for it, he said. .@Varneyco Sets the economic record straight after Nancy Pelosi calls U.S. mass bonuses crumbs pic.twitter.com/BvjIHGm3HE  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 14, 2018 The sweeping tax plan passed last month lowers the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and cuts personal income taxes. Analysts say the benefits will largely flow to corporations and the wealthy, as theyre more likely to be in positions to share in corporate profits. For instance, Wells Fargo & Co., which responded to news of the tax overhaul by announcing it will raise workers pay to at least $15 an hour, also reported that it expects to pay an effective tax rate of 19% this year, down from about 31% in previous years. That should amount to tax savings of more than $3 billion annually. On average, middle-class Americans are expected to see a very small tax cut in the near term and a tax increase after 2025, when all of the tax cuts for individuals expire. The tax cuts for corporations, however, are permanent.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer James Rufus Koren. Facebook

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Trump touts MLK proclamation in tweet, but ceremony is overshadowed by reports of racist remarks By Associated Press President Trump signed a proclamation Friday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, noting the contributions of a great American hero. Today, it was my great honor to proclaim January 15, 2018, as Martin Luther King Jr., Federal Holiday. I encourage all Americans to observe this day with appropriate civic, community, and service activities in honor of Dr. King's life and legacy. pic.twitter.com/samlJsz1Nt  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 Overshadowing the event was mounting backlash from Trumps comments during a private meeting with lawmakers the day before. A short time after the meeting, which was called to discuss a possible immigration deal, reports emerged that Trump had asked participants why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Illinois Sen. Richard Durbin, the Senates second-ranking Democrat, appeared to confirm those reports on Friday. Trump did not respond Friday to several questions about the incident, including whether he actually used vulgar language to describe African nations, or if he is racist. The president said at the White House that love was central to the slain civil rights leader. Trump said the nation celebrates King for standing up for the self-evident truth Americans hold so dear, that no matter what the color of our skin or place of our birth, we are all created equal by God.  This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump criticizes Democrats in tweet calling for stricter immigration rules President Trump hit out at Democrats on Thursday night in a tweet calling for stricter immigration rules. Trump wrote that members of the party seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the border with Mexico: The Democrats seem intent on having people and drugs pour into our country from the Southern Border, risking thousands of lives in the process. It is my duty to protect the lives and safety of all Americans. We must build a Great Wall, think Merit and end Lottery & Chain. USA!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018 It wasnt immediately clear exactly what prompted the tweet. Earlier Thursday, Trump rejected a bipartisan compromise to resolve the standoff over so-called Dreamers, young immigrants who were brought to the United States illegally as children but have temporary permits to work, attend school or serve in the military. The president drew widespread condemnation after reports emerged that he had asked participants in an Oval Office meeting about the proposal why the United States should accept immigrants from shithole countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts bill aimed at improving border screening for fentanyl By Associated Press President Trump signed legislation Wednesday aimed at giving Customs and Border Protection agents additional screening devices and other tools to stop the flow of illicit drugs. Speaking at a surprise bill-signing ceremony while flanked by members of Congress from both parties in the Oval Office, Trump described the bill as a significant step forward in the fight against powerful opioids such as fentanyl, which he called our new big scourge. He echoed that language Thursday in a tweet: Yesterday, I signed the #INTERDICTAct (H.R. 2142) with bipartisan members of Congress to help end the flow of drugs into our country. Together, we are committed to doing everything we can to combat the deadly scourge of drug addiction and overdose in the United States! pic.twitter.com/ELZvFol5Lo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 The legislation will pay for new portable and fixed chemical screening devices to detect and intercept fentanyl at ports of entry and in the mail, along with other laboratory equipment and personnel, including scientists. Trump has made fighting the opioid epidemic a centerpiece of his administration, though critics say he hasnt dedicated nearly enough money or resources to make a difference. Trump suggested during his remarks on Wednesday that hed like to take a more aggressive approach to the drug crisis  but the countrys not ready for what he has in mind. So were going to sign this. And its a step. And it feels like a very giant step, but unfortunately, its not going to be a giant step, because no matter what you do, this is something that keeps pouring in, he said. And were going to find the answer. There is an answer. I think I actually know the answer, but Im not sure the countrys ready for it yet, he added. Does anybody know what I mean? I think so. Facebook

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Trump applauds news that Toyota-Mazda plant is slated for Alabama By Associated Press Japanese automakers Toyota and Mazda on Wednesday announced plans to build a mammoth, $1.6-billion joint-venture plant in Alabama that will eventually employ about 4,000 people. President Trump lauded the news in a tweet: Cutting taxes and simplifying regulations makes America the place to invest! Great news as Toyota and Mazda announce they are bringing 4,000 JOBS and investing $1.6 BILLION in Alabama, helping to further grow our economy! pic.twitter.com/Kcg8IVH6iA  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Good news: Toyota and Mazda announce giant new Huntsville, Alabama, plant which will produce over 300,000 cars and SUVs a year and employ 4000 people. Companies are coming back to the U.S. in a very big way. Congratulations Alabama!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 11, 2018 Several states had competed for the project, which will be able to turn out 300,000 vehicles per year and produce the Toyota Corolla compact car for North America and a new small SUV from Mazda. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and company executives held a news conference to announce that the facility is coming to the Huntsville area not far from the Tennessee line. Production is expected to begin by 2021. The decision to pick Alabama is another example of foreign-based automakers building U.S. factories in the South. To entice manufacturers, Southern states have used a combination of lucrative incentive packages, low-cost labor and a pro-business labor environment, because the United Auto Workers union is stronger in Northern states. Read More Facebook

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Trump highlights call for border wall in tweets on visit with Norways prime minister By Associated Press President Trump praised Norways prime minister in a tweet on Wednesday after Erna Solberg became the first foreign leader to visit with the president in 2018. Today, it was my great honor to welcome Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway to the @WhiteHouse - a great friend and ally of the United States! Joint press conference: https://t.co/qWR1BhfQZI pic.twitter.com/PJvwznjRCO  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Trump also shared via Twitter a video clip of a joint news conference he held with Solberg on Wednesday afternoon. In the clip, Trump responds to a question from a reporter by saying there can be no bipartisan immigration deal absent funding for his long-promised wall along the U.S. border with Mexico. Republican and Democratic lawmakers have been seeking a solution for hundreds of thousands of so-called Dreamers, young people who were brought to the United States as children and are living here illegally. The United States needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval. The safety and security of our country is #1! pic.twitter.com/4CFzQXb5aS  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 We need the wall for security, we need the wall for safety, we need the wall for stopping the drugs from pouring in, Trump said Wednesday.  Any solution has to include the wall because without the wall, it all doesnt work. On Tuesday, Trump drew widespread attention when he said during a meeting with a bipartisan group of lawmakers that he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. That contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill in subsequent tweets and public comments. Read More This post contains reporting from Los Angeles Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump praises Cabinet in tweet touting meeting By Associated Press President Trump promoted a meeting of his Cabinet on Wednesday, sharing via Twitter a link to a video of the session posted on the White House YouTube account. In his tweet, Trump thanked his Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country and wrote that the last year has been one of monumental achievement. I want to thank my @Cabinet for working tirelessly on behalf of our country. 2017 was a year of monumental achievement and we look forward to the year ahead. Together, we are delivering results and MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! https://t.co/ptXa1hAPwW pic.twitter.com/yv6RALkQf3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The former reality television star continued to dispense accolades at the meeting Wednesday, greeting reporters in the Cabinet Room by saying: Welcome back to the studio. Then he proceeded to relive a Cabinet Room session from the prior day, when he had allowed reporters and TV cameras to stick around for much of his meeting with a bipartisan group of legislators on the thorny issue of immigration. It was a tremendous meeting. Actually, it was reported as incredibly good. And my performance  you know, some of them called it a performance  I consider it work, Trump said. Trump went on to say he had received letters from news anchors calling it one of the greatest meetings theyve ever witnessed. He added that the media will ultimately support Trump in the end, because theyre going to say, if Trump doesnt win in three years, theyre all out of business. Asked for examples of letters received from news anchors, the White House said it had received private communications. It also offered a series of positive on-air comments and tweets from journalists about the unusual access to the meeting. During his remarks, Trump swung from praising his own meeting coverage to telling journalists that they were dependent on his presidency for ratings to threatening a strong look at libel laws. Still, Trump thanked the journalists in front of him, joking: Youve gotten very familiar with this room. I appreciate your nice comments yesterday. Facebook

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Trump blasts DACA ruling in tweet calling courts broken and unfair By Lisa Mascaro President Trump denounced the federal courts Wednesday as broken and unfair after a district judge in San Francisco issued a nationwide injunction keeping protections in place for so-called Dreamers. Trump tweeted: It just shows everyone how broken and unfair our Court System is when the opposing side in a case (such as DACA) always runs to the 9th Circuit and almost always wins before being reversed by higher courts.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 On Tuesday night, U.S. District Judge William Alsup in San Francisco temporarily blocked the Trump administrations decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, known as DACA, which has protected from deportation some 700,000 people who came to the country illegally as children. Alsup granted a request by the state of California, the University of California and other plaintiffs to stop Trump from ending DACA on March 5. The administrations decision to end DACA, which was announced in September, was based on a flawed legal analysis, Alsup wrote in his decision. Dreamers would be irreparably harmed if their DACA protections, which allow them to live and work legally in the U.S., were stripped away before the courts had a chance to fully consider their claims, he ruled. The action is the mirror image of a ruling in 2015 by a federal judge in Texas who ruled in favor of that state when it sought to block President Obama from expanding DACA to include the parents of Dreamers. Trump administration officials praised that judicial ruling. By contrast, they sharply criticized Alsups decision. Read More Facebook

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Trump thanks lawmakers for productive immigration meeting, says deal must include border wall President Trump thanked a bipartisan group of lawmakers for participating in a meeting on immigration legislation on Tuesday. Much of the discussion involved so-called Dreamers, an estimated 700,000 young people who were brought to the country illegally as children and are now facing deportation. In a tweet, Trump wrote that there was strong agreement to negotiate a bill to protect Dreamers, as well as put into place some of the reforms favored by Republicans. Thanks to all of the Republican and Democratic lawmakers for todays very productive meeting on immigration reform. There was strong agreement to negotiate a bill that deals with border security, chain migration, lottery and DACA. https://t.co/SdqAQ3aL3z pic.twitter.com/8DYHZHspAy  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 The most notable exchange of the meeting came when Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the San Francisco Democrat, asked Trump whether he would be agreeable to signing a stand-alone bill to protect the Dreamers, before moving on to a more comprehensive immigration bill. Yeah, I would like to do it, Trump responded. The statement drew widespread attention because it contradicted the Republican consensus that Dreamers fate needed to be part of a broader immigration bill that would include some version of Trumps promised border wall and other immigration reforms. Trump later backed away from a stand-alone Dreamer bill, tweeting that a wall along the U.S. border with Mexico must be part of any deal: As I made very clear today, our country needs the security of the Wall on the Southern Border, which must be part of any DACA approval.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 Pressure has been mounting for Congress to broker an immigration deal by Jan. 19 as part of a must-pass budget package to fund the government. This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Noah Bierman. Facebook

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Trump thanks officers and veterans in tweets President Trump doled out a slew of accolades Tuesday via Twitter. He thanked the nations law enforcement officers, including in his message a hashtag denoting a day of appreciation organized by a national support group for law enforcement families. On behalf of the American people, THANK YOU to our incredible law enforcement officers. As President of the United States - I will fight for you, and I will never, ever let you down. Now, more than ever, we must support the men and women in blue! #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay pic.twitter.com/Qb4uxB4JRm  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trump later expressed gratitude for federal immigration agents, in particular: .@ICEgov HSI agents and ERO officers, on behalf of an entire Nation, THANK YOU for what you are doing 24/7/365 to keep fellow Americans SAFE. Everyone is so grateful!#LawEnforcementAppreciationDay

President @realDonaldTrump https://t.co/HXCpTlruVo  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018 The president thanked veterans as he cited his administrations efforts to curb the number of veteran suicides by improving mental health treatment for the high-risk group: Today, it was my great honor to sign a new Executive Order to ensure Veterans have the resources they need as they transition back to civilian life. We must ensure that our HEROES are given the care and support they so richly deserve! https://t.co/0MdP9DDIAS pic.twitter.com/LP2a8KCBAp  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 Trumps tweet included photos of the president signing an executive order Tuesday directing the secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs to develop a plan to provide seamless access to mental health and suicide prevention resources for 12 months for members leaving the armed forces. Also on Tuesday, Trump touted a law he signed the day before designating the birthplace of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. a national historic park: It was my great honor to sign H.R. 267, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Act, which redesignates the Martin Luther King, Junior, National Historic Site in the State of Georgia as the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. https://t.co/Qe0b6HBFTY pic.twitter.com/QTgaqTawPT  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 9, 2018 And he thanked House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) for sharing a video compilation comprised of clips of politicians and commentators praising the GOPs tax cut bill: Thank you @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy! Couldnt agree w/you more. TOGETHER, we are #MAGA https://t.co/QaxtqpyXTR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2018  This post contains reporting from the Associated Press and Times staff writer Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump hails tax bill in tweets recapping speech to farmers By Associated Press Connecting with rural Americans, President Trump on Monday hailed his tax overhaul as a victory for family farmers. Farm country is Gods country, Trump told the annual convention of the American Farm Bureau Federation. Trump became the first president in a quarter-century to address the federations convention. His Southern swing also included a stop in Atlanta for the national college football championship game. Cant wait to be back in the amazing state of Tennessee to address the 99th American @FarmBureau Federations Annual Convention in Nashville! #AFBF18



On my way now - join me LIVE at 4:00pmE: https://t.co/QaljAqekdD. pic.twitter.com/Wm7Io0hYT8  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Joined by Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) and a group of Tennessee lawmakers, Trump said most of the benefits of the tax legislation are going to working families, small businesses, and who  the family farmer. The package Trump signed into law last month provides generous tax cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans, and more modest reductions for middle- and low-income individuals and families. In every decision we make, we are honoring Americas PROUD FARMING LEGACY. Years of crushing taxes, crippling regs, & corrupt politics left our communities hurting, our economy stagnant, & millions of hardworking Americans COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN. But they are not forgotten ANYMORE! pic.twitter.com/MdYS7xnukQ  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The president vastly inflated the value of the package in his speech, citing a total of $5.5 trillion in tax cuts, with most of those benefits going to working families, small businesses and who? The family farmer. The estimated value of the tax cuts is actually $1.5 trillion for families and businesses because of cuts in deductions and the use of other steps to generate offsetting tax revenue. We have been working every day to DELIVER for Americas Farmers just as they work every day to deliver FOR US. #AFBF18 pic.twitter.com/QDH7fvFkZ7  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 From Nashville, Trump traveled to Atlanta to watch Alabamas Crimson Tide and Georgias Bulldogs face off Monday night in the College Football Playoff National Championship. We are fighting for our farmers, for our country, and for our GREAT AMERICAN FLAG. We want our flag respected - and we want our NATIONAL ANTHEM respected also! pic.twitter.com/16eOLXg6Fi  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Before departing for the game, Trump referenced his ongoing defense of the American flag and the national anthem, saying there was enough space for people to express their views. We love our flag and we love our anthem, and we want to keep it that way, he said. Facebook

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Trump tweet hails drop in unemployment rate for African Americans By Associated Press President Trump touted a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans on Monday in a tweet. African American unemployment is the lowest ever recorded in our country. The Hispanic unemployment rate dropped a full point in the last year and is close to the lowest in recorded history. Dems did nothing for you but get your vote! #NeverForget @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 The rate fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Trump also hailed the development via Twitter on Saturday. His latest tweet on the topic came about an hour after it was discussed during an episode of Fox & Friends, according to Mediaite. Facebook

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Trump talks up the economy and dresses down the media in Sunday tweets With President Trump cheering from the sidelines, the White House on Sunday pressed its defense of the presidents fitness to govern, as fired former aide Stephen K. Bannon reversed course and apologized for his role in a new books explosive portrait of Trump. The presidents critics, meanwhile, said Trumps stream of taunts and insults in response to the book  Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, released last week  served only to underscore the authors unsettling portrayal of Trumps year-old presidency, depicting a leader whose own aides consider him childish, ignorant and dangerously erratic. Trump provided more ammunition Sunday morning, as he continued to attack the book via Twitter while preparing to depart Camp David for the White House: Leaving Camp David for the White House. Great meetings with the Cabinet and Military on many very important subjects including Border Security & the desperately needed Wall, the ever increasing Drug and Opioid Problem, Infrastructure, Military, Budget, Trade and DACA.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Ive had to put up with the Fake News from the first day I announced that I would be running for President. Now I have to put up with a Fake Book, written by a totally discredited author. Ronald Reagan had the same problem and handled it well. So will I!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 The most vehement defense of Trump on Sunday came from senior advisor Stephen Miller, a onetime Bannon acolyte who distanced himself from his former mentor. In a combative appearance Sunday on CNNs State of the Union, Miller called the book grotesque and writer Michael Wolff the garbage author of a garbage book. Trump is known to closely monitor aides televised performances in putting forth his case, and he gleefully weighed in within moments of Millers televised clash with host Jake Tapper. CNN has long been a particular target of Trumps ire. Jake Tapper of Fake News CNN just got destroyed in his interview with Stephen Miller of the Trump Administration. Watch the hatred and unfairness of this CNN flunky!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trumps reaction, however, seemed to bolster Tappers on-air depiction of Miller as using his appearance on the show to play to the president rather than addressing questions put to him. I get it  theres one viewer that you care about, the host said exasperatedly after Miller turned the discussion repeatedly to negative news coverage of the president while deflecting specific queries. Later on Twitter, Trump took up two themes that have been prevalent on his social media feeds recently. The president again went after the news media, tweeting that the recipients of his self-proclaimed most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year, which he promised earlier in the week to announce on Monday, would actually be revealed the following Wednesday: The Fake News Awards, those going to the most corrupt & biased of the Mainstream Media, will be presented to the losers on Wednesday, January 17th, rather than this coming Monday. The interest in, and importance of, these awards is far greater than anyone could have anticipated!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 Trump later lauded a New York Post opinion piece that compared him favorably with his predecessor, President Obama, as well as Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. In quoting the op-ed, Trump initally misspelled consequential as consensual, but he deleted those tweets and re-sent the messages. His is turning out to be an enormously consequential presidency. So much so that, despite my own frustration over his missteps, there has never been a day when I wished Hillary Clinton were president. Not one. Indeed, as Trumps accomplishments accumulate, the mere thought of...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 ...Clinton in the WH, doubling down on Barack Obamas failed policies, washes away any doubts that America made the right choice. This was truly a change election  and the changes Trump is bringing are far-reaching & necessary. Thank you Michael Goodwin! https://t.co/4fHNcx2Ydg  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2018 Trump also continued talking up the economy, which has been enjoying a period of strong gains. The Stock Market has been creating tremendous benefits for our country in the form of not only Record Setting Stock Prices, but present and future Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Seven TRILLION dollars of value created since our big election win!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 7, 2018 In addition to Miller, other senior administration officials made the rounds of Sunday news talk shows to decry the claims made in Wolffs book. CIA Director Mike Pompeo said Wolffs characterization of Trump as averse to digesting classified briefing material was ludicrous, and the ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, insisted that that those around Trump love their country and respect their president. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Laura King. Facebook

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Responding to book that mocks his intelligence, Trump tweets hes like, really smart By Tracy Wilkinson President Trump declared himself a very stable genius on Twitter on Saturday and later in a televised news conference called the author of a book that questioned his mental fitness a fraud. His comments came on a bone-cold day at Camp David during a weekend retreat with top administration officials and Republican congressional leaders strategizing on the years legislative agenda, including matters such as infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and national security. Now that Russian collusion, after one year of intense study, has proven to be a total hoax on the American public, the Democrats and their lapdogs, the Fake News Mainstream Media, are taking out the old Ronald Reagan playbook and screaming mental stability and intelligence.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....Actually, throughout my life, my two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart. Crooked Hillary Clinton also played these cards very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 ....to President of the United States (on my first try). I think that would qualify as not smart, but genius....and a very stable genius at that!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Still, Trumps explosive rebuttal to author Michael Wolffs claims not only opened the day, but it also ensured the presidents capability to fill the highest office in the land was a topic that would not go away. In his early-morning tweets, Trump said two of his greatest assets have been mental stability, and being, like, really smart. He noted that his former Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, played these cards [about competence] very hard and, as everyone knows, went down in flames. I went from VERY successful businessman, to top T.V. Star to President of the United States (on my first try). Read More Facebook

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In morning tweets, Trump touts job numbers and takes digs at news media By Associated Press President Trump used Twitter on Saturday morning to tout a drop in the unemployment rate for African Americans. He also used the tweets as an opportunity to take digs at media outlets whose past coverage he has found to be critical. The African American unemployment rate fell to 6.8%, the lowest rate in 45 years. I am so happy about this News! And, in the Washington Post (of all places), headline states, Trumps first year jobs numbers were very, very good.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The unemployment rate for African Americans fell to 6.8% in December, the lowest level since the government began tracking such data in 1972. The reasons range from a greater number of black Americans with college degrees to a growing need for employers in a tight job market to widen the pool of people they hire from. Still, the rate for black workers remains well above those for whites and some other groups, something experts attribute in large part to decades of discrimination and disadvantages. Robust job creation has lowered unemployment for all Americans. U.S. employers added nearly 2.1 million jobs in 2017  the seventh straight year that hiring has topped 2 million. In his tweet, Trump praised a report that noted the numbers, touting the fact that it appeared in the Washington Post (of all places). Minutes later, Trump renewed his attack on an ABC News reporter who was suspended last month after filing an erroneous report on Michael Flynn, Trumps former national security advisor. Brian Ross, the reporter who made a fraudulent live newscast about me that drove the Stock Market down 350 points (billions of dollars), was suspended for a month but is now back at ABC NEWS in a lower capacity. He is no longer allowed to report on Trump. Should have been fired!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 The reporter, Brian Ross, was reportedly reassigned within ABC News upon returning from his unpaid suspension. But on Saturday, Trump wrote that he should have been fired. Trumps tweets came hours before he was set to host congressional Republicans and administration officials at Camp David. The meeting scheduled to begin at midmorning Saturday was expected to touch on the budget, infrastructure, immigration, welfare reform and the shape of the midterm election this fall. Facebook

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Trump commends Sen. Rand Paul after he proposes eliminating all U.S. aid to Pakistan President Trump commended Sen. Rand Paul after the Kentucky Republican announced plans to introduce legislation that would eliminate all U.S. aid to Pakistan. Trump tweeted Friday night: Good idea Rand! https://t.co/55sqUDiC0s  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 On Thursday, the Trump administration announced it was suspending security assistance to Islamabad until the country moves aggressively against local militants who have attacked U.S. troops in neighboring Afghanistan. Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration at the apparent inability of Pakistani authorities to rein in militants who cross out of the countrys rugged tribal areas to attack U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Tracy Wilkinson. Facebook

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Trump continues to lash out at Sloppy Steve Bannon in tweets on tell-all book By Associated Press President Trump is praising a major Republican donor family for distancing themselves from his former advisor Steve Bannon. Trump tweeted Friday: The Mercer Family recently dumped the leaker known as Sloppy Steve Bannon. Smart!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trump has continued to lash out at Bannon over an explosive new book that quoted his former aide as questioning Trumps competence and describing a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower among Donald Trump Jr., Trump campaign aides and a Russian lawyer as treasonous and unpatriotic. On Thursday, billionaire GOP donor Rebekah Mercer issued a statement distancing her family from Bannon. Mercer is a co-owner of Breitbart, the populist website Bannon helps run. I support President Trump and the platform upon which he was elected, Mercer said. My family and I have not communicated with Steve Bannon in many months and have provided no financial support to his political agenda, nor do we support his recent actions and statements. The book, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, quickly shot atop Amazons best-seller list, and the publisher moved up its release date by four days, to Friday. Trump took up the topic again on Twitter on Friday night, denouncing both Bannon and the books author, Michael Wolff, in starkly personal terms: Michael Wolff is a total loser who made up stories in order to sell this really boring and untruthful book. He used Sloppy Steve Bannon, who cried when he got fired and begged for his job. Now Sloppy Steve has been dumped like a dog by almost everyone. Too bad! https://t.co/mEeUhk5ZV9  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2018 Trumps message linked to a meme depicting a parody book cover titled, Liar and Phony, that featured a photo of Wolff and disparaging quotes about the author. In a tweet sent earlier Friday morning, Trump suggested the book was intended to serve as a distraction from the FBIs investigation into possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia, which Trump wrote is proving to be a total hoax. Well, now that collusion with Russia is proving to be a total hoax and the only collusion is with Hillary Clinton and the FBI/Russia, the Fake News Media (Mainstream) and this phony new book are hitting out at every new front imaginable. They should try winning an election. Sad!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 That came amid reports that Trump directed his White House counsel to tell Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions to not recuse himself from the Justice Departments Russia investigation. Trumps effort to keep Sessions, a vocal and loyal supporter of his election bid, in charge of an investigation into his campaign offers special counsel Robert Mueller yet another avenue to explore as his prosecutors work to untangle potential evidence of obstruction. Read More Facebook

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Trump praises the economy ahead of meetings at Camp David By Associated Press President Trump is praising the strength of the U.S. economy ahead of meetings at Camp David with congressional Republicans. Trump tweeted early Friday: Dow goes from 18,589 on November 9, 2016, to 25,075 today, for a new all-time Record. Jumped 1000 points in last 5 weeks, Record fastest 1000 point move in history. This is all about the Make America Great Again agenda! Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Six trillion dollars in value created!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The president also told reporters on the South Lawn that the tax cuts are really kicking in after Congress passed a package of tax cuts at the end of 2017. And the president praised the December jobs report, which found U.S. employers added 148,000 jobs in December and the unemployment rate stayed at 4.1%, the lowest level since 2000. The modest but steady pace of hiring is a reassuring sign for investors who have been buoyed by the just-passed Republican tax plan and have been sending stock market indexes roaring to uncharted heights. The president is meeting with Republican congressional leaders and members of his Cabinet on Friday and Saturday to discuss the 2018 agenda. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets as Dow crashes through 25,000 By Associated Press President Trump dispatched a congratulatory tweet as the Dow Jones industrial average rose above the 25,000-point mark Thursday, just five weeks after its first close above 24,000. Dow just crashes through 25,000. Congrats! Big cuts in unnecessary regulations continuing.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 After the Dow closed above 25,000, Trump shared a graphic depicting the stock indexs record-setting rise. MAKING AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/iONbr1DkVk  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Later in the day, the president was back on Twitter, complaining that news outlets had barely covered the stock market milestone. He suggested that the strength of the economy would be the biggest story on earth, had it unfolded during the presidency of his predecessor. The Fake News Media barely mentions the fact that the Stock Market just hit another New Record and that business in the U.S. is booming...but the people know! Can you imagine if O was president and had these numbers - would be biggest story on earth! Dow now over 25,000.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 The Dow broke past 1,000-point barriers in 2017 on its way to a 25% gain for the year, as an eight-year rally since the Great Recession continued to confound skeptics. Strong global economic growth and good prospects for higher company earnings have analysts predicting more gains, although the market may not stay as calm as it has been recently. The Dow has made a rapid trip since it reached 24,000 points Nov. 30, partly on enthusiasm over passage of the Republican-backed tax package, which could boost company profits this year with across-the-board cuts to corporate taxes. Read More Facebook

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Trump reacts to Fire and Fury book in tweet lashing out at author and Sloppy Steve President Trump lashed out at the author of a soon-to-be-released book about the chaotic first year of his presidency Thursday night. In a tweet, Trump called Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, a phony book and claimed that hed never spoken to its author, Michael Wolff. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve! Trump wrote. He appeared to be referring to former White House chief strategist Stephen K. Bannon, whose stunning criticisms of Trump and his circle figure prominently in the title. I authorized Zero access to White House (actually turned him down many times) for author of phony book! I never spoke to him for book. Full of lies, misrepresentations and sources that dont exist. Look at this guys past and watch what happens to him and Sloppy Steve!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 5, 2018 Trumps tweet came hours after he had his lawyer demand that Henry Holt & Co. and Wolff stop publication the book. Instead, the publisher expedited the books release to Friday, four days before it was slated to hit bookstore shelves, in response to unprecedented demand. Published excerpts on Wednesday and Thursday whetted that appetite and roiled Washington. Bannons comments, including that it was treasonous and unpatriotic for Trumps son Donald Trump Jr., son-in-law Jared Kushner and campaign manager Paul Manafort to have met in 2016 with Russians said to have dirt on Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, prompted Trump on Wednesday to rebuke his former advisor, saying Bannon had lost his mind. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Brian Bennett and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump thanks senators who attended meeting on immigration President Trump tweeted thanks to Republican senators who attended a meeting about possible immigration legislation on Thursday. In his message, Trump also listed his top priorities when it comes to any type of overhaul of the nations immigration system. Thank you to the great Republican Senators who showed up to our mtg on immigration reform. We must BUILD THE WALL, stop illegal immigration, end chain migration & cancel the visa lottery. The current system is unsafe & unfair to the great people of our country - time for change!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Trumps tweet echoed his remarks at the beginning of Thursdays meeting, when he insisted again that constructing a border wall and overhauling two legal immigration programs must be part of any deal with Democrats to protect the so-called Dreamers from deportation. Two-year deportation protections and work permits given under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program begin to expire March 6 under an executive order. Trump announced in September that he was ending the Obama-era program, but told Congress to draft a law to continue protections for people brought to the country illegally as children  a group that has widespread public support. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writer Brian Bennett. Facebook

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Trump resumes Twitter war against kneeling NFL players President Trump has resumed his Twitter war against NFL players who kneel during the national anthem to protest social injustice and racial inequality. In a tweet early Thursday, Trump replied to a supporter who shared a meme that appears to depict family members lying on the grave of a fallen soldier with the caption: This is why we stand. Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! Trump wrote. So beautiful....Show this picture to the NFL players who still kneel! https://t.co/tJLM1tvbvb  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The president has denounced players who kneel during the anthem in previous tweets. Hes also called for the firing of players who do so. His latest message came amid news that the NFL finished the regular season with TV ratings that fell nearly 10% below the previous season. Analysts attribute the drop to controversies facing the league, as well as changing viewing habits and a possible saturation point in the number of games available. Read More This post contains reporting from Times staff writers Stephen Battaglio and Alex Wigglesworth. Facebook

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Trump credits himself with facilitating talks between North and South Korea By Associated Press President Trump says his tough stance on nuclear weapons on the Korean peninsula is helping push North Korea and South Korea to talk. Trump tweeted early Thursday: With all of the failed experts weighing in, does anybody really believe that talks and dialogue would be going on between North and South Korea right now if I wasnt firm, strong and willing to commit our total might against the North. Fools, but talks are a good thing!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 That assertion is in conflict with some of the presidents own statements. Last year, he ridiculed Secretary of State Rex Tillerson for talking about negotiations with the North. This week, Trump seemed open to the possibility of an inter-Korean dialogue after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a rare overture toward South Korea in a New Years Day address. But Trumps ambassador to the United Nations insisted that talks wont be meaningful unless the North is getting rid of its nuclear weapons. The overture about talks came after Trump and Kim traded more bellicose claims about their nuclear weapons. In his New Years Day address, Kim repeated fiery nuclear threats against the United States. Kim said he has a nuclear button on his office desk and warned that the whole territory of the U.S. is within the range of our nuclear strike. Trump mocked that assertion Tuesday evening in a tweet. Facebook

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After disbanding his vote fraud panel, Trump still says voting system is rigged By Brian Bennett One day after disbanding his troubled voter fraud commission without any findings of fraud, President Trump continued to call the U.S. voting system rigged and said states should require that Americans have voter-identification cards. In two tweets on Thursday morning, Trump blamed the commissions failure on the lack of cooperation from mostly Democrat States that refused to hand over voter rolls because they know that many people are voting illegally. However, voting supervisors in Republican-led states refused as well, objecting on privacy and other grounds. Many mostly Democrat States refused to hand over data from the 2016 Election to the Commission On Voter Fraud. They fought hard that the Commission not see their records or methods because they know that many people are voting illegally. System is rigged, must go to Voter I.D.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 As Americans, you need identification, sometimes in a very strong and accurate form, for almost everything you do.....except when it comes to the most important thing, VOTING for the people that run your country. Push hard for Voter Identification!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Despite Trumps assertions, analysts have not found evidence of widespread voter fraud. Trump created the Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity in May after alleging, without proof, that millions of illegal votes were cast for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. Trump was elected after winning a majority in the electoral college, but the nationwide count showed Clinton received nearly 3 million more votes. The commission sought personal data on voters across the country and faced mounting lawsuits in recent months over privacy concerns. Read More Facebook

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Trump touts another good day for stocks, credits tax cut By Associated Press President Trump touted another good day for the stock market Wednesday in a tweet. Stock Market had another good day but, now that the Tax Cut Bill has passed, we have tremendous upward potential. Dow just short of 25,000, a number that few thought would be possible this soon into my administration. Also, unemployment went down to 4.1%. Only getting better!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Big gains for technology and healthcare stocks helped U.S. indexes set records again Wednesday. Some analysts attributed the surge to investor enthusiasm for Trumps $1.5-trillion tax cut. All told, Wall Street analysts estimate the tax package should boost earnings for companies in the Standard & Poors 500 index by roughly 8% this year. Thats much more generous than the average tax cut of 1.6% that middle-class families will receive, according to the Tax Policy Center. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 The public has been less enthusiastic about the tax law. A Monmouth University poll last month found that nearly half of Americans disapproved of it, with only 26% in support. Still, as Trump also noted on Twitter, some workers have seen a benefit: So far, dozens of companies have announced bonuses and higher minimum wages as a result of the tax cut. AT&T, Comcast, Bank of America, and American Airlines have all pledged to pay $1,000 bonuses to their employees. Some 40 U.S. companies have responded to President Trumps tax cut and reform victory in Congress last year by handing out bonuses up to $2,000, increases in 401k matches and spending on charity, a much higher number than previously known. https://t.co/bmWrwWzxMR  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 Investors also appear less concerned than many politicians about how the additional profits will be used. The Trump administration says it expects companies will plow much of the extra profit back into their businesses, purchasing more software, machinery, and other equipment. Those investments will make workers more productive and provide a key boost to the economys long-run growth. They should also boost wages and salaries for employees. Opponents of the tax law respond that companies are more likely to pass the windfall on to shareholders in the form of higher dividend payments and share buybacks, which raise the price of those shares still in investors hands. Previous cuts in corporate tax rates, in the United States and overseas, havent always led to higher wages. For Wall Street, its all good, at least in the short run. Most analysts take the view that either way, companies and the economy will benefit. Facebook

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Trump reacts to death of Mormon Church president By Associated Press President Trump mourned the death of Mormon Church leader Thomas S. Monson on Wednesday evening. Trump tweeted a link to a statement in which he said that Monson demonstrated wisdom, inspired leadership, and great compassion and delivered a message of optimism, forgiveness, and faith. Melania and I are deeply saddened by the death of Thomas S. Monson, a beloved President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints...https://t.co/ETD3fWtfU3  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2018 A church bishop at the age of 22, Monson became the youngest church apostle ever in 1963 at the age of 36. He served as a counselor for three church presidents before assuming the role of the top leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in February 2008. After a life of church service, Monson died Tuesday at his home in Salt Lake City, according to church spokesman Eric Hawkins. He was 90. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets that Iranian protesters will see great U.S. support at the appropriate time By Associated Press President Trump continued to express support for Irans anti-government protesters on Wednesday. In a tweet, Trump commended the protesters and pledged that the United States will support them at the appropriate time. Such respect for the people of Iran as they try to take back their corrupt government. You will see great support from the United States at the appropriate time!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Trumps tweet Wednesday morning came as Iranian Ambassador Gholamali Khoshroo sent a letter to United Nations officials complaining that Washington was intervening in a grotesque way in Irans internal affairs. The President and Vice-President of the United States, in their numerous absurd tweets, incited Iranians to engage in disruptive acts, the ambassador wrote to the U.N. Security Council president and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The U.S. didnt immediately respond to the letter, which maintains that Washington has crossed every limit in flouting rules and principles of international law governing the civilized conduct of international relations. At least 21 people have been killed and hundreds arrested in Iran during a week of anti-government protests and unrest over economic woes and official corruption. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people took part in counter-demonstrations Wednesday backing the clerically overseen government, which has said enemies of Iran are fomenting the protests. Trump has unleashed a series of tweets in recent days backing the protesters, saying Iran is failing at every level and declaring that it is time for change in the Islamic Republic. Facebook

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Trump congratulates Sen. Orrin Hatch upon news of his retirement By Associated Press President Trump congratulated Sen. Orrin Hatch for an absolutely incredible career upon news of Hatchs impending retirement. In a tweet Tuesday afternoon, Trump called Hatch a tremendous supporter and wrote that he will be greatly missed in the Senate. Congratulations to Senator Orrin Hatch on an absolutely incredible career. He has been a tremendous supporter, and I will never forget the (beyond kind) statements he has made about me as President. He is my friend and he will be greatly missed in the U.S. Senate! pic.twitter.com/0VjzLEeHTl  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Hatchs decision to retire from the Senate after four decades lets the Utah Republican walk away at the height of his power after helping to push through an overhaul of the tax code and persuading Trump to downsize two national monuments. Retirement also preserves the 83-year-olds legacy by allowing him to avoid a bruising reelection battle that would have broken his promise not to seek an eighth term. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweet exaggerates progress in improving veterans care By Associated Press President Trump played up tremendous progress in improving care for veterans in his first year on Tuesday in a tweet. His message linked to an Instagram video describing eight accomplishments that show Trump is fighting for our veterans. But it overstates the impact of these steps. We will not rest until all of Americas GREAT VETERANS can receive the care they so richly deserve. Tremendous progress has been made in a short period of time. Keep up the great work @SecShulkin @DeptVetAffairs! https://t.co/ir25vW15hx pic.twitter.com/OtuzIgxMn6  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Of the eight achievements cited, two are ceremonial proclamations recognizing National Veterans and Military Families Month and National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Two are pieces of legislation that extended the troubled Veterans Choice program on a temporary basis. This became necessary because the Trump administration repeatedly miscalculated the amount of taxpayer dollars available to pay for care from private doctors outside the Veterans Affairs system when veterans had to endure long waits for treatment at VA medical centers. The departments poor budget planning caught lawmakers off guard. A fifth claim involves telehealth, a step letting doctors practice medicine across state lines using digital technology. Announced in August, it has yet to take full effect because a proposed VA regulation hasnt been completed. The VA wants authority to practice across state lines to come from legislation, not a regulation. On Wednesday, the Senate approved a telehealth measure that now goes to the House. A sixth claim refers to legislation that streamlines the appeals process for disability compensation claims within the VA. This step has had limited effect so far because it applies to new disability claims, not the 470,000 pending claims. The last two initiatives make it easier for the VA to discipline employees. The department has pointed to more than 1,300 employees who have been fired under Trumps watch. Because their infractions are not detailed in public documents, the effect on veterans care is not fully known. Facebook

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Trump unleashes his first tweetstorm of 2018 By Noah Bierman President Trump clearly didnt resolve to change his Twitter habits this year. With nine disparate tweets over three hours on Tuesday morning, the first working day of 2018, Trump continued to exploit social media to be the most aggressive commentator in chief in American history. For any other president, his posts would have made for a monumental day of (mis-)statements. Yet for Trump, the series  attacks on political foes and media, provocations of foreign leaders and self-praise for events he had nothing to do with  was all but unremarkable. His Twitter barrage  sent between 7:09 a.m. and 10:16 a.m.  reflected a familiar gamut after nearly a year in office: Attacks on political foes: Nearly 14 months after his election, Trump called for the jailing of Huma Abedin, Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid (his misspelling, another occasional feature of Trump tweets). Crooked Hillary Clintons top aid, Huma Abedin, has been accused of disregarding basic security protocols. She put Classified Passwords into the hands of foreign agents. Remember sailors pictures on submarine? Jail! Deep State Justice Dept must finally act? Also on Comey & others  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 In the same tweet, he disparaged the Deep State Justice Dept, headed of course by his appointees, calling on it to act against James B. Comey, the FBI director he fired for investigating the Russia thing. Diplomatic provocations: Trump again called North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Rocket man, ridiculed the volatile nuclear-armed foe for recent military defections and openly speculated about potential talks between North and South Korea. Sanctions and other pressures are beginning to have a big impact on North Korea. Soldiers are dangerously fleeing to South Korea. Rocket man now wants to talk to South Korea for first time. Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not - we will see!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Perhaps that is good news, perhaps not  we will see! Trump wrote. Later Tuesday, Trump tweeted: North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un just stated that the Nuclear Button is on his desk at all times. Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Also later Tuesday, Trump tweeted an attack on Pakistan, his second in as many days, and added a new one against Palestinians: It's not only Pakistan that we pay billions of dollars to for nothing, but also many other countries, and others. As an example, we pay the Palestinians HUNDRED OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS a year and get no appreciation or respect. They dont even want to negotiate a long overdue...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ...peace treaty with Israel. We have taken Jerusalem, the toughest part of the negotiation, off the table, but Israel, for that, would have had to pay more. But with the Palestinians no longer willing to talk peace, why should we make any of these massive future payments to them?  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Undermining media: Trump offered Congratulations! to A.G. Sulzberger, who took over as publisher of the New York Times this week. The Failing New York Times has a new publisher, A.G. Sulzberger. Congratulations! Here is a last chance for the Times to fulfill the vision of its Founder, Adolph Ochs, to give the news impartially, without fear or FAVOR, regardless of party, sect, or interests involved. Get...  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 ....impartial journalists of a much higher standard, lose all of your phony and non-existent sources, and treat the President of the United States FAIRLY, so that the next time I (and the people) win, you wont have to write an apology to your readers for a job poorly done! GL  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the two-part post was really yet another slam against a perceived media foe: Trump said the paper had a last chance to fulfill its journalistic mission, and accused it of relying on phony sources and substandard reporters  just days after he granted another exclusive interview to the paper. As a bonus, the tweet contained a recycled falsehood, that the paper apologized after the election for reporting on him unfairly. It didnt. Trump later said on Twitter that he would soon announce the most dishonest & corrupt media awards of the year. Stay tuned! I will be announcing THE MOST DISHONEST & CORRUPT MEDIA AWARDS OF THE YEAR on Monday at 5:00 oclock. Subjects will cover Dishonesty & Bad Reporting in various categories from the Fake News Media. Stay tuned!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 The president also tweeted a quote from Fox Business Networks Lou Dobbs Tonight, which aired a segment praising Trumps first-year accomplishments. Dobbs reportedly joined Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday for a gala to celebrate New Years Eve. President Trump has something now he didnt have a year ago, that is a set of accomplishments that nobody can deny. The accomplishments are there, look at his record, he has had a very significant first year. @LouDobbs Show,David Asman & Ed Rollins  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 3, 2018 Taking credit: Trump congratulated himself for policing the border with Mexico, an area where his policies and anti-immigration rhetoric are believed to have had some effect on reducing illegal crossings. Thank you to Brandon Judd of the National Border Patrol Council for your kind words on how well we are doing at the Border. We will be bringing in more & more of your great folks and will build the desperately needed WALL! @foxandfriends  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 He took credit for employee bonuses by companies after he signed Republican tax cuts into law last month. Companies are giving big bonuses to their workers because of the Tax Cut Bill. Really great!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 But the jaw-dropper was Trump congratulating himself for planes not crashing. Since taking office I have been very strict on Commercial Aviation. Good news - it was just reported that there were Zero deaths in 2017, the best and safest year on record!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 It was the safest year on record worldwide, but the American streak without commercial jet passenger deaths goes back to 2009. Trump, who has promoted deregulation as one of his top accomplishments, has not signed off on any new airline safety regulations. The White House pointed to new security screening of passengers, to electronic devices to prevent terrorist attacks and to Trumps support for privatizing air traffic control  a proposal that has gotten nowhere in Congress. Falsehoods: Trump said President Obama, in brokering the 2015 nuclear arms limitation deal with Iran, foolishly gave money to the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. He didnt. The people of Iran are finally acting against the brutal and corrupt Iranian regime. All of the money that President Obama so foolishly gave them went into terrorism and into their pockets. The people have little food, big inflation and no human rights. The U.S. is watching!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 The nuclear deal, which included major U.S. allies as signators, released Irans own funds that had long been frozen. Trumps art of the deal: When Trump sees a big deal looming, he often blasts the other side  to gain leverage, as hes written. This week he resumes a showdown with Democratic lawmakers over funding the government and immigration protections for so-called Dreamers, who were brought to the country illegally as children. Democrats are doing nothing for DACA - just interested in politics. DACA activists and Hispanics will go hard against Dems, will start falling in love with Republicans and their President! We are about RESULTS.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 2, 2018 Trump, who in September ordered a gradual end of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, sought to shift blame for the resulting controversy, saying Democrats are doing nothing for DACA and are just interested in politics. Trump has insisted that any help for Dreamers be paired with funding for a border wall and a crackdown on legal immigration. Democrats, and some Republicans, are opposed. Read More Facebook

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In tweet, Trump suggests U.S. will withdraw financial assistance to Pakistan By Shashank Bengali Pakistan lashed out Monday after President Trump accused its leaders of lies & deceit and suggested the United States would withdraw financial assistance to the nuclear-armed nation it once saw as a key ally against terrorism. It was the presidents latest broadside against Pakistan after a speech in August in which he demanded its leaders crack down on the safe havens enjoyed by Taliban militants fighting U.S.-backed forces in neighboring Afghanistan. The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 1, 2018 U.S. Ambassador David Hale was summoned to the Foreign Ministry to discuss the presidents statement, U.S. Embassy spokesman Richard Snelsire said. Pakistan lodged a strongly worded protest and asked for clarification about Trumps comments, according to two foreign office officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Pakistans prime minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, called a Cabinet meeting for Tuesday and a meeting of the National Security Committee on Wednesday to discuss Trumps New Years Day tweet. Read More Facebook

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Trump continues to tweet in support of Iranian protesters By Laura King President Trump expressed renewed support Sunday for protesters in Iran, declaring that people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. In a tweet from his Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, the president said the nationwide economic protests that began on Thursday  and have taken on wider political overtones as they have grown in size  were a signal that Iranians will not take it any longer. Big protests in Iran. The people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. Looks like they will not take it any longer. The USA is watching very closely for human rights violations!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Trump has tweeted about the protests for three days straight as Iranians took to the streets despite a heavy police presence, tear gas and scores of arrests. The defiance gained urgency after two people were reported shot to death in the city of Dorud, about 200 miles southwest of Tehran. As the conflict escalated, Iranian authorities on Sunday slapped a temporary ban on Instagram and the messaging app Telegram, which were widely used to fan protest fervor. Iran, the Number One State of Sponsored Terror with numerous violations of Human Rights occurring on an hourly basis, has now closed down the Internet so that peaceful demonstrators cannot communicate. Not good!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Irans leaders already are casting Trumps increasingly effusive expressions of support for the demonstrators as opportunistic meddling and are painting the demonstrators as foreign pawns, adopting a strategy that some analysts say could jeopardize the legitimacy of the nascent antigovernment protests. Read More Facebook

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Trump tweets condolences after Colorado deputies are shot in ambush, one fatally By Associated Press A man fired more than 100 rounds at sheriffs deputies in Colorado early Sunday, killing one and injuring four others, before being fatally shot himself in what authorities called an ambush. Two civilians were also injured. President Trump expressed sorrow, writing on Twitter: My deepest condolences to the victims of the terrible shooting in Douglas County @DCSheriff, and their families. We love our police and law enforcement - God Bless them all! #LESM  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 31, 2017 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said deputies came under fire almost
Trumps latest tweet in media war is a literal show of mock pugilism By Laura King President Trump on Sunday circulated a doctored video clip on Twitter that showed him physically attacking a crudely rendered stand-in for CNN, a post that drew rebukes from critics as an incitement to violence, but prompted renewed expressions of support from backers. In doing so, Trump also ignored pleas to stop tweeting or at least take a more presidential tone -- from lawmakers in his own party -- after he took his war against news media to new heights last week with a coarse post on the appearance and intellect of cable television host Mika Brzezinski. On Saturday he also posted several anti-media messages as Americans began their Fourth of July celebration. Sundays tweet, which used an edited version of a years-old promotional video for professional wrestling, showed Trump, clad in a business suit and tie, administering a choreographed beat-down to a figure whose face was obscured by CNNs logo. #FraudNewsCNN #FNN pic.twitter.com/WYUnHjjUjg  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 2, 2017 CNN, which has been a particular target of the president since the network was forced to retract a story relating to an element of the sprawling investigation into possible collusion with Russia by the Trump campaign, quickly condemned the tweet. It is a sad day when the President of the United States encourages violence against reporters, the network said in statement. It also tweeted a recent assertion by White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders that Trump had never engaged in such incitement. "The President in no way form or fashion has ever promoted or encouraged violence. If anything, quite the contrary." - @SHSanders45 6/29/17  CNN Communications (@CNNPR) July 2, 2017 As is often the case, the presidents surrogates were left scrambling to explain or justify an inflammatory Twitter outburst. Homeland security advisor Thomas Bossert, who was shown the clip while appearing on ABCs This Week, watched it stone-faced and then declared: No one would perceive that as a threat. I hope they dont. The night before, Trump had used a celebration of veterans at Washingtons Kennedy Center to again denounce the news media. The president, who had briefly broken a weekend golf getaway to appear at the rally, pounded away at the theme that he is being treated unfairly. The fake media tried to stop us from going to the White House, he told the raucous crowd. But Im president, and theyre not. Facebook

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Increasing number of states reject request for personal information on voters from Trump commission By Colleen Shalby (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press) A growing number of states have rejected a request for personal information about voters from a presidential commission on vote fraud led by Kansas controversial Secretary of State Kris Kobach. Kobach, the vice chairman of the commission, sent letters to each state and Washington, D.C., asking for voters personal information. The request asked for names, addresses, voting history and the last four digits of voters Social Security numbers. The commission was set up to look into voter fraud after President Trump alleged that he lost the popular vote in 2016 only because millions of people voted illegally -- a claim that numerous states election officials from both parties and outside experts have dismissed as groundless. As of Friday afternoon, at least 13 states had outright rejected the request from the Presidential Advisory Committee on Election Integrity. Officials in several other states either said they would not supply all the information or needed more information before making a decision. Some officials did not mince words in their nos. They can go jump in the Gulf of Mexico, and Mississippi is a great State to launch from, Mississippi Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann wrote in a statement. California Secretary of State Alex Padilla said in a statement that strongly criticized Kobach that he would continue to defend the rights of all eligible voters to cast their ballots free from discrimination, intimidation or unnecessary roadblocks. Secretary Padilla's response to the Election Commission's request for personal data of CA voters: pic.twitter.com/UdUt55HSim  CA SOS Vote (@CASOSvote) June 29, 2017 As a Kansas official, Kobach has been a leading backer of immigration restrictions and of measures to put new requirements on who is allowed to vote. His opponents note that he was fined last week for misleading a federal court in a voting rights case. Democratic elected officials in several states criticized the commission, itself, not just the information request. The president created his election commission based on the false notion that voter fraud is a widespread issue  it is not, Kentucky Secretary of State Allison Grimes wrote. "I do not intend to release Kentuckians' sensitive personal data to the fed. gov't."  Sec. Grimes



Statement on Pres. Commission request: pic.twitter.com/9Js05x99eF  Alison L. Grimes (@KySecofState) June 30, 2017 In an odd contradiction, Kobach said that Kansas, like some other states, will partially reject at least one aspect of the request. In Kansas, the Social Security number is not publicly available.  Every state receives the same letter, but were not asking for it if its not publicly available, he told the Kansas City Star. The states that have fully rejected the request include California, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, North Dakota, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, Mississippi and Minnesota. Others, including Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Connecticut, Missouri, Kansas, Utah and Texas will turn over some of the requested information. Vermont has requested an affidavit from the commission. And Wisconsin has suggested that the commission could purchase the publicly available information, just as political campaigns do. Officials in Washington state said they were reviewing the request. Facebook

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Look at possible conflicts of interest in Trump teams OneWest Bank probes, 2 Democrats urge By Jim Puzzanghera Protesters gather outside a OneWest Bank in Pasadena in 2014. (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times) Two House Democrats want Congress to look into possible conflicts of interest in the Trump administrations handling of investigations into Pasadenas OneWest Bank  a bank formerly headed by now-Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. Reps. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) and Al Green (D-Texas) said Friday that there was room for considerable doubt as to the impartiality and the adequacy of this administrations investigations into OneWest and a subsidiary, Financial Freedom. Mnuchin was the banks chairman from 2009 to 2015. President Trump has nominated Joseph Otting, the former chief executive of OneWest, to be comptroller of the currency, a key bank regulator who is part of the Treasury Department. And Brian Brooks, who was OneWests vice chairman, reportedly will be tapped to be deputy Treasury secretary. Read More Facebook

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Healthcare issue delivers nothing but pain for Nevadas embattled Sen. Dean Heller By David Montero Dean Heller is Stephanie Diaz-Gonzalezs problem now. Shes never met Nevadas Republican senator and hadnt had much time to familiarize herself. How could she? The 25-year-old is holding down a full-time job and ra+ising a 7-year-old son, who keeps her busy with soccer games, math homework and those too-often terrifying moments when he cant breathe. When President Trump was elected and congressional Republicans moved on their top priority to dismantle Obamacare, Diaz-Gonzalez got to know Heller a whole lot better. Given his back-and-forth on the issue, she came to distrust him. I dont know if I could vote for him or support him, the Democrat said. He seems very contradictory. Which is why Heller is also Karen Steelmons problem. Steelmon, a 48-year-old Republican who grew up in northern Nevada, isnt happy with the lawmaker, who is considered the most vulnerable GOP senator in the country when he comes up for reelection next year. Obamacare has always been an abomination to Steelmon, an ardent supporter of repeal. To her, deeply held principles are at stake. Heller has never acted in favor of what I would consider conservative, constitutional principles as a general rule, said Steelmon, who would like to see the incumbent taken out in a GOP primary. And on the very few times he has, its always come as a surprise. This is Hellers dilemma. Read More Facebook

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Trump will meet face-to-face with Putin in Germany next week By Brian Bennett (Alexei Nikolsky / Associated Press) President Trump has governed five months under a cloud of questions about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, yet the two men will meet next week for the first time, on the sidelines of the G20 summit of world leaders in Hamburg, Germany. White House officials on Thursday confirmed plans for the private meeting but said no decisions had been made about the topics Trump will raise. So its unclear whether the men will discuss Russias election-year cyberattacks that are the focus of criminal and congressional investigations. Our relationship with Russia is not different from any other country in terms of us communicating with them, really, what our concerns are, where we see problems in the relationship but also opportunities, said Trumps national security advisor, H.R. McMaster. McMaster said he expected the two men to have a broad, wide-ranging discussion about problems in the relationship but also about where the U.S. and Russia have common interests. Theres no specific agenda, McMaster said. Its really going to be whatever the president wants to talk about, he added. The White House has refused to say whether Trump would sign legislation with new sanctions on Russia for meddling in the elections by hacking, including into some states voting systems, and by spreading false news stories. But Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin indicated the existing restrictions against Russia were sufficient. Weve got plenty of those as well, Mnuchin said. Trump will also meet with the leaders of China, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Indonesia, Singapore and other countries during the summit of 20 major world economies. Trumps director of the White House National Economic Council, Gary Cohn, said the meeting would fall short of a typical bilateral discussion between the American president and the head of another country, but would be more than whats known in diplomacy-speak as a pull aside  a quick, informal get-together on the edge of a conference. Trumps scheduled meeting with Putin in Hamburg places added significance on his stop in Poland next Wednesday. In Warsaw, McMaster said, Trump intends to bolster U.S. relationships with Poland and other central European and Baltic states that were once in Moscows orbit under the Soviet Union, but now rely on the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the U.S. to counter pressure from Russia. Trumps meetings there seem designed to strengthen his hand with Putin. McMaster called Poland a front-line NATO nation with regards to the eastern flank, noting that it sent troops to fight alongside the U.S. in Afghanistan and Iraq and has exceeded its pledge on NATO defense spending. As a candidate and president, Trump has criticized other NATO countries that have not yet met those pledges for military spending equal to at least 2% of the size of their respective economies. Facebook

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Travel ban seen a win by at least one conservative; Breitbart focuses on upcoming votes in Congress By Kurtis Lee After it stalled for several months in federal courts, a portion of President Trumps travel ban is set to take effect Thursday evening and will bar individuals from six majority-Muslim countries. Some in conservative media are viewing it as a much-needed political victory for Trump. Here are some of Thursdays headlines: Two wins for Trump (Washington Times) Trump has seen setbacks in his fledgling administration  probes into possible collusion with Russia, infighting among his party over a healthcare overhaul, federal courts halting his travel ban. But now, the president gets a W. The Supreme Courts decision to allow portions of President Trumps travel ban to proceed is a much-needed victory for the administration, Cal Thompson writes. In doing so the unanimous court affirmed  at least temporarily, pending a full hearing on the case in the fall  a presidents constitutional authority to determine whether people seeking admittance to the U.S. pose a threat to our safety and security. Thompson also highlights the Supreme Court decision this week that churches have the same right as other charitable groups to seek state money for new playground surfaces and other non-religious needs. Thompson called the ruling in the case, Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia Inc. v. Comer, a victory for religious institutions and Trump, who at times has touched on the issue of religious freedom. Breitbart prods GOP leaders to pass pro-American immigration reforms (Breitbart) For Trump, Breitbart hasnt always delivered the most approving headlines for his administration  particularly on immigration. Some right-wing bloggers and pundits dont think Trump has done enough on immigration, a key pillar of his campaign platform. This piece turns the attention to members of Congress, where two bills  focused primarily on detaining people in the country illegally  could come up for a vote . The GOP-run House is expected to vote for two modest immigration-reform bills as soon as this week, but pro-American reformers are using the two votes to build loud and energetic public pressure for major reform legislation, notes the right-wing website. Trump attacks Psycho Joe Scarborough, Crazy Mika Brzezinski in Twitter tear (Fox News) At first, they were friends; now, perhaps, enemies?

Trump used Twitter early Thursday to jab Morning Joe hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, who the president in past has said he admires. The tweets have drawn the ire of Republicans. Heres what the president wrote: I heard poorly rated @Morning_Joe speaks badly of me (don't watch anymore). Then how come low I.Q. Crazy Mika, along with Psycho Joe, came..  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 29, 2017 ...to Mar-a-Lago 3 nights in a row around New Year's Eve, and insisted on joining me. She was bleeding badly from a face-lift. I said no!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 29, 2017 And the response? pic.twitter.com/8YhzcCUwM1  Mika Brzezinski (@morningmika) June 29, 2017 Facebook

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Trump plans to nominate Brendan Carr to fill final FCC seat and provide crucial vote on net neutrality rules By Jim Puzzanghera President Trump intends to nominate Brendan Carr, a former aide to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, to fill the final open seat at the agency and provide a crucial vote on the future of tough net neutrality rules. Carr, the FCCs general counsel, would fill a Republican slot on the commission and would be expected to support Pais push to roll back the regulations for online traffic. Carrs intended nomination was announced by the White House on Wednesday night. It comes after Trump nominated Jessica Rosenworcel, a former FCC commissioner, on June 14 to fill a Democratic seat. If the Senate confirms both nominees, as expected, the FCC would have its full complement of five commissioners and a 3-2 Republican majority. Read More Facebook

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Gorsuch is already pushing Supreme Court to the right on religion, guns and gays By David Savage Supreme Court Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) When Judge Neil M. Gorsuch went before the Senate in March as President Trumps first nominee to the Supreme Court, he sought to assure senators he would be independent and above the political fray. There is no such thing as a Republican judge or Democratic judge, he said more than once. We just have judges. But in just his first few weeks on the high court, Justice Gorsuch has shown himself to be a confident conservative activist, urging his colleagues to move the law to the right on religion, gun rights, gay rights and campaign funding. He dissented along with Justice Clarence Thomas when the court rejected a gun-rights challenge to Californias law that strictly regulates who may carry a concealed weapon. The 2nd Amendments core purpose, they said, shows the right to bear arms extends to public carry. He wrote a dissent, joined by Thomas and Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr., when the court struck down part of an Arkansas law that gave opposite sex-couples, but not same-sex couples, the right to have both spouses listed on a childs birth certificate. The court said it had already decided that same-sex couples deserve fully equal rights under state law. And when Trumps travel ban came before the court this week, Gorsuch dissented from the majoritys middle-ground approach, which allowed the ban to take effect except for foreign travelers who had a relationship with this country, such as a close relative or a student enrolled in a university. Read More Facebook

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When he meets South Koreas president, Trump will be asking for trade concessions and help confronting North Korea By Brian Bennett (Nicholas Kamm / AFP Photo) President Trump plans to pressure South Korean President Moon Jae-in to make trade concessions when they meet Friday, while at the same time seeking closer cooperation against North Koreas accelerating nuclear program. Both aims, outlined Wednesday by a senior administration official, could make for some difficult discussions, especially since the newly elected Moon campaigned for a softer approach to the government in Pyongyang. Moon, who arrived Wednesday in Washington, began his four-day visit by laying a wreath at a memorial at Marine Corps Base Quantico in northern Virginia to the U.S. Marines who died during the Korean War in the battle at Chosin Reservoir. Trump will host Moon and his wife, Kim Joon-suk, for dinner at the White House on Thursday before the two leaders meet one-on-one in the Oval Office on Friday morning. Having criticized the two countries trade agreement when he was running for president, Trump will argue for a more balanced trade relationship, the administration official said in a background briefing. In particular, Trump will cite the large amount of Chinese steel that is sometimes processed in South Korea before being sold cheaply in the U.S. market. The two leaders will have a friendly, frank discussion about the trade imbalance between South Korea and the United States, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Seouls trade surplus is shrinking, the official added, but there is still a large gap. The visit will mark the first time the two leaders have met since the liberal Moon took office last month after the ouster of President Park Geun-hye, a scandal-tarred conservative who had taken a hard line against North Korea. Trump and Moon share precisely the same goal, the Trump aide said -- the complete dismantlement of North Koreas nuclear program. But the approach of the two leaders is starkly different. Trump has called for maximum pressure against North Korea, seeking additional economic sanctions and demanding that China, North Koreas main ally and patron, do more to shut off assistance to Pyongyang. Moon has risen through the ranks of his countrys politics advocating for closer ties between the Koreas, which technically are still at war. Already he has taken steps to delay the deployment of the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, known as THAAD, an anti-missile system intended to counter any North Korean strikes. The anti-missile system is a divisive issue in South Korea; it prompted protests last weekend at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul. China has objected to installation of the powerful radar defense as well, but the White House believes the U.S. system will ultimately be fully operative. The delay should not be equated as a reversal of the decision to deploy THAAD, the official said, and suggested that the topic would not be central to the two presidents discussions. As important as anything [will be] building a rapport and getting to know each other, the official said. Facebook

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Senate Republicans aim for new healthcare bill by Friday, but skeptics remain By Lisa Mascaro (Alex Brandon / Associated Press) Senate Republicans reconvened behind closed doors Wednesday trying to break the impasse on their healthcare overhaul but emerged with no apparent strategy for resolving differences by an end-of-week deadline. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky vowed to try again for a vote after the Fourth of July recess, despite having abruptly delayed action this week. Senators were aiming for a revised bill by Friday, the Republican whip, Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, told reporters, so it could be assessed by the Congressional Budget Office during the break. But senators remained skeptical after the lengthy lunchtime huddle that appeared to run long on ideas but short on consensus. I think its going to be very difficult, said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine). McConnell surprised senators by delaying this weeks expected votes once it became clear he did not have a majority for passage  or possibly to even open the debate. As many as 10 Republican senators now publicly oppose the bill, the Better Care Reconciliation Act, and leaders are scrambling to win them over with an estimated $200 billion in savings from the bill that can be applied to their particular states needs. But even with that fund of resources, it is not clear McConnell will be able to satisfactorily improve the legislation, which now threatens to cut 22 million Americans off health insurance. He can only afford to lose two Republican votes in the face of Democratic opposition. Its going to be very difficult to get me to a yes... have to make us an offer we cant refuse, Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nev.) said on a telephone town hall late Tuesday, according to journalist Jon Ralston, who monitored the call. Fresh polling Wednesday showed paltry support for the Republican approach to overhauling the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, which has enjoyed a surge in popularity now that Republicans are closer than ever to repealing it. A USA Today poll put approval of the Senate GOP bill at 12%. Republicans, though, are under enormous pressure from their most conservative supporters  and big dollar donors, including the powerful Koch network  to deliver on their promised to end Obamacare. Senate Democrats, meanwhile, suggested that President Trump convene all 100 senators  much the way then-President Obama did during his first days in office for a session at Blair House  to see how they might be able to work together to improve, rather than repeal, the Affordable Care Act. Id make my friends on the Republican side and President Trump an offer: Lets turn over a new leaf. Lets start over, said Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.). President Trump, I challenge you to invite us  all 100 of us, Republican and Democrat  to Blair House to discuss a new bipartisan way forward on healthcare in front of all the American people. No such invitation, however, seemed forthcoming. Trump dismissed Schumers proposal  he just doesnt seem like a serious person, the president said  and instead promised his own big surprise on healthcare. Healthcare is working along very well, Trump told reporters at the White House. We could have a big surprise, with a great healthcare package. Asked what he meant by a big surprise, Trump simply repeated: A great, great surprise. The Republican bill, like its counterpart passed by House Republicans, does not fully gut Obamacare, but rescinds the new taxes imposed on high-income individuals and healthcare companies to pay for expanding coverage through Medicaid and subsidies for private insurance on the ACA marketplace. Senators said the private talks Wednesday focused mainly on changes to the Obamacare marketplace that could bring down the cost of insurance premiums. One idea from Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) to allow insurers to offer policies that do not meet the Obamacare benchmarks for what insurance needs to cover met with mixed reaction, senators said. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), a physician, warned that such changes would alter the risk pool, keeping insurance costs high. You end up with policies that, for example, dont cover maternity, Cassidy said. Do you want a policy that doesnt have maternity, which would be principally appealing to young men, when obviously typically men have had a role in that pregnancy? Other senators were floating new ideas, but McConnell gave no indication whether those proposals would be included in the final revised product. Michael A. Memoli contributed to this report. Facebook

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No new laptop bans, but air travelers to the U.S. will face tighter screening all over the globe By Joseph Tanfani Homeland Security officials said Wednesday they will order stricter passenger screening and other new security measures for all flights entering the United States but will not bar laptop computers in carry-on luggage as airlines and passenger groups had feared. The new order will cover about 2,000 flights a day from 280 airports in 105 countries, a move that could make international flying even more onerous just as the busy summer travel season starts. Security officials would not detail the new measures but said passengers headed to the United States will face more intensive screening at airports, and probably more security dogs. They gave no date for when the new procedures will start. If carriers dont implement the measures effectively, Homeland Security still may ban laptops, e-readers and other electronic devices larger than cell phones from cargo holds as well as passenger cabins. The decision follows intelligence, reportedly gathered from Islamic State in Syria by Israeli spy services, suggesting a lethal new threat from bombs that could be concealed in digital devices and that could evade detection by airport screening devices. In March, U.S. and British authorities banned laptops in cabins on flights from eight Muslim-majority countries in North Africa and the Middle East, saying terrorists were seeking innovative methods to bring down commercial jetliners. Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly told a security conference in Washington on Wednesday that the new security measures will be both seen and unseen and will be phased in over time. He said they will include tougher screening, particularly of electronic devices, plus new technology and procedures to protect planes from so--called insider attacks by airline employees. It is time that we raise the global baseline of aviation security, Kelly said. We cannot play international whack-a-mole with every new threat. He said terrorists still see commercial aircraft as the crown jewel target for attacks, and that intelligence has shown renewed interest by terrorists to attack airlines. Kelly told a House committee several weeks ago that the department was considering extending the laptop ban to 71 more airports overseas. But Kelly ultimately decided to tighten screening across the board, instead of focusing on laptops or chasing after each item that might be used to bring down a jetliner, senior Homeland Security officials said Wednesday in a conference call with reporters. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to brief reporters, said Kelly worked with airlines to find ways to improve screening without unduly inconveniencing passengers. Intensive doesnt always mean slower, said one official. In some cases, airlines have been doing these things at international airports for some time. The officials said more security dogs, which sniff for explosives, may be used. And they said airlines and airports may institute pre-check programs like those approved by the Transportation Security Administration for use in U.S. airports. The officials said restrictions on the first 10 airports will be lifted once airlines in those countries satisfy the new security protocols, officials said. Airport authorities in the eight countries affected by that ban  Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Morocco and the United Arab Emirates  have been told about the new security measures and will put them in place so the ban is lifted, the officials said. In recent weeks, Kelly and his aides have huddled with their counterparts overseas, as well as with representatives of major airlines, to discuss whether to expand the ban around the globe. Airlines protested that a laptop ban would inconvenience passengers and not remove the threat. Aviation experts and European security officials warned that putting laptops in cargo holds would pose other dangers because the lithium batteries could start fires. In 1988, a bomb hidden in a radio cassette player exploded aboard a Pan Am jet flying over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing all 259 passengers and crew. The plot was blamed on then-Libyan strongman Moammar Kadafi. In 2010, powerful bombs hidden in printer ink cartridges were found aboard two cargo jets headed from Yemen to Chicago. Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula later claimed responsibility for the plot. Facebook

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Its crunch time for McConnell after Senate GOP is forced to delay vote on healthcare bill By Lisa Mascaro ( (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)) The abrupt decision Tuesday by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to temporarily shelve a vote on the Republican Obamacare overhaul gives him a few extra weeks to build support for a revised bill before it risks becoming hopelessly stalled by the opposition. The seasoned GOP leader will be aided by what amounts to a $200-billion piggy bank to push Republican holdouts into line. Thats the bills extra cost savings, compared with the House version, that McConnell can tap to provide perks to individual senators, from more opioid assistance to expanded tax-free health savings accounts. A similar strategy  delay and enticements  worked well in the House, where Republicans last month passed their healthcare bill on the third try. But prolonging the debate also gives Democrats and other critics time to mobilize, and ensures that senators will be exposed to an onslaught of opposition as they head home for the weeklong holiday break to defend a bill that has estimated would leave tens of millions of Americans without insurance. After the delay was announced, President Trump hosted a White House gathering of all GOP senators. But rather than rally them around the bill with the power of the presidential bully pulpit, he struck a surprisingly detached tone. This will be great if we get it done, Trump told senators in the East Room. And if we dont get it done, its just going to be something that were not going to like. And thats OK. Read More Facebook

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As vote looms, concerns over Medicaid cuts rise from some in conservative media By Kurtis Lee Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press ) The vote  for now  is delayed. As President Trump has urged Senate Republicans to pass a bill that would overhaul the Affordable Care Act, some, including Sens. Dean Heller of Nevada and Rob Portman of Ohio, have expressed concerns over cuts to Medicaid. Both represent states that, under Obamacare, expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income adults. The current Senate healthcare bill would deliver deep cuts to Medicaid, leaving millions uninsured. While Trump awaits a vote in the coming weeks  originally scheduled for this week, but pushed back until after the July 4 recess  its on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to gather enough support from within his GOP caucus to secure the bills passage. Some in the conservative media are questioning the current bill. Here is an overview of todays headlines on this and other issues: Republicans have a Medicaid problem (Weekly Standard) The Republican healthcare bill would cut Medicaid spending by $772 billion over the next decade. Chris Deaton writes that Republicans aim to offset the consequences of these Medicaid changes by offering tax credits for private insurance to people under the poverty line. In this piece, Deaton raises the question of whether low-income earners would be better off with Medicaid coverage or obtaining insurance through a GOP tax credit? He answers by noting, Its long been a contention of conservative thinkers that healthcare outcomes improve with private insurance rather than Medicaid. Paul Manafort, former Trump campaign chairman, registers as foreign agent (Associated Press) Hes among those facing scrutiny in an FBI investigation into Russian meddling in last years election. Now, Paul Manafort, who at one time served as Trumps campaign chairman, has registered with the Department of Justice as a foreign agent. In a filing with the department, Manafort notes that his consulting firm received nearly $17 million between 2012 and 2014 from a Ukrainian political party with links to Russia, according to the Associated Press. Last spring, former national security advisor Michael T. Flynn, who resigned from his position in February after misleading administration officials about contacts with Russians, also registered as a foreign agent, for consulting work he did for a Turkish businessman. A Democratic road to recovery (American Spectator) The party is attempting a reboot. After Hillary Clintons 2016 loss and defeats in several special elections this year, Democrats are in search of a new face for the party. Even so, liberals are in lock-step in their opposition to Trump. This piece offers Democrats some advice  from the right  on how to recover. Leftists: You have been lied to and taken advantage of. When you eventually come out of this haze you are in, you will realize that it was done not by the president, but by the snake oil salesmen and charlatans, who took advantage of your sickness and weakness, simply for money and power, writes Judah Friedman. Ask yourselves this: What is the Democratic Party, right now, without this rage, and hate, with which it is fueling your addictions? The answer is nothing. Facebook

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Sarah Palin sues the New York Times for tying her PAC ad to mass shooting By Associated Press Former vice presidential nominee and Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin is accusing the New York Times of defamation over an editorial that linked one of her political action committee ads to the mass shooting that severely wounded then-Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. In the lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court Tuesday, Palins lawyers say the Times violated the law and its own policies when it accused her of inciting the 2011 attack that killed six people. The lawsuit refers to a June editorial in the Times on the recent shooting of Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise. The editorial later was corrected. Palin is seeking damages to be determined by a jury. A spokeswoman for the Times, Danielle Rhoades Ha, says the company hasnt seen the lawsuit but will defend against any claim vigorously. Facebook

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Trump succeeds where Obama failed  spawning a new wave of liberal activism By Mark Z. Barabak Amanda Litman and Ross Morales Rocketto launched the Democratic activist group Run For Something, which encourages people under 35 to seek elected office. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) The night Hillary Clinton lost the White House, Amanda Litman cried so hard she threw up. In Atlanta, as the returns rolled in, Traci Feit Love faced a question from her anguished 8-year-old daughter: Now what do we do? Across the country, in the heart of Silicon Valley, Rita Bosworth wondered the same thing. The three never met, never spoke, never communicated in any fashion. But in the days and weeks that followed, they became common threads in a sprawling patchwork: the angry and politically aggrieved who  with no help from politicians, political parties or any formal campaign structure  have joined to fight President Trump and his policies. Read More Facebook

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Trump on healthcare bill: If we dont get it done ... thats OK By Associated Press (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) President Trump said that if the healthcare bill fails to pass in the Senate, he wont like it  but thats OK. Trump spoke Tuesday at a gathering of Senate Republicans after their leaders delayed a vote on their healthcare bill until at least next month. Trump said, This will be great if we get it done and if we dont get it done its going to be something that were not going to like and thats OK and I can understand that. He added, I think we have a chance to do something very, very important for the public, very, very important for the people of our country. Facebook

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Watch live: Press briefing with Deputy Press Secretary Sarah Sanders and Energy Secretary Rick Perry Facebook

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Senate GOP leaders abruptly delay vote on healthcare bill until after July 4th recess By Lisa Mascaro Facing resistance from their own party, Senate Republican leaders said Tuesday they would postpone a vote on their healthcare bill until after the July 4th recess. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell wants to provide more time to make changes to the bill to try to convince reluctant GOP senators to vote for the measure. Were going to press on,' McConnell said, adding he remains optimistic. Were continuing to talk. Since the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the bill would leave 22 million more Americans without insurance after 10 years, several Republicans senators had said they would not even support allowing the bill to be brought to the Senate floor for a vote. Meanwhile, President Trump invited all GOP senators to the White House for a meeting Tuesday afternoon. But Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), a moderate who has expressed serious doubts about the bill, questioned whether revisions would make a difference. I have so many fundamental problems with the bill, that have been confirmed by the CBO report, that its difficult to see how any tinkering is going to satisfy my fundamental and deep concerns about the bill,' Collins said on CNN. McConnell is struggling to appease two factions in his party. Centrists like Collins want to lessen the impact of proposed cuts to Medicaid, while conservatives want to go further in repealing benefits provided under Obamacare. Senate leaders hope to continue talks this week, with an eye toward moving quickly when Congress returns after the holiday. McConnell plans to wait for the CBO to review any changes and reissue a score. He can only afford to lose two Republicans given the partys 52-seat majority in the Senate. Theres more work that needs to be done, its pretty obvious, said Republican Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho as he was leaving a Senate lunch with Vice President Mike Pence. Pence ignored reporters questions about the decision. If more work needs to be done, you shouldnt try to light the fire. But the delay in a vote will give Democrats and other opponents of the repeal bill more time to mobilize, particularly as Republicans return to their home districts during the holiday. We know the fight is not over,' said Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer of New York. Facebook

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Trump administration warns of Syrian chemical attack, but with damaged credibility By Noah Bierman The Trump administration Monday night sent the kind of dire warning -- of the Syrian regimes apparent preparation for another chemical weapons attack, and a threat of U.S. retaliation -- that requires credibility to have a receptive national and foreign audience. Yet the initial bafflement about the warning among U.S. defense officials, and the simultaneous distraction of President Trumps unrelated tweets, seemed to undercut the seriousness of the moment. More broadly, the episode is testing the damage Trump has done to his and his administrations trustworthiness by his assaults on the intelligence community as well as other perceived enemies. Trump has spent months attacking the credibility of the intelligence community, at one point comparing their tactics to Nazis and repeatedly calling its findings of Russian meddling in the election a hoax and witch hunt, even as foreign policy experts cautioned that he was diminishing the reputation of a community he would need in times of crisis to rally public support. At a moment of crisis when U.S. decisions and actions rest upon information coming from the intelligence community, [Trump] may have diminished the credibility of that information in the eyes of the public and the eyes of the international community, said Daryl G. Kimball, the executive director of the Arms Control Assn. Kimball called the White House statement unusual and said such messages would normally be sent through private diplomatic channels. He added that the public allegation should be followed by a formal presentation of the evidence to the United Nations Security Council, to build international support against suspected Syrian violations of the chemical weapons ban. The four-line statement on Syria from the White House Press Secretary came just after 9:44 p.m. EDT Monday. The United States has identified potential preparations for another chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime that would likely result in the mass murder of civilians, including innocent children, the statement read. The activities are similar to preparations the regime made before its April 4, 2017 chemical weapons attack. If Syrian President Bashar Assad conducts another mass murder attack using chemical weapons, he and his military will pay a heavy price, it concluded, citing a U.S. missile strike after the previous chemical attack to reinforce the new threat. A Pentagon spokesman confirmed Tuesday that preparations for a chemical attack were observed at the same base in Syria from which its military launched a sarin nerve gas attack that killed 86 people, including children, in April. We have observed activities at Shayrat Air Base that suggest possible intent by the Syrian regime to use chemical weapons again, Pentagon spokesman Maj. Adrian J.T. Rankine-Galloway said in a statement. These activities are similar to what we observed prior to the regime chemical weapons attack against Khan Sheikhoun in April. But some senior U.S. defense and intelligence officials reached late Monday and early Tuesday were caught off guard by the White House statement. Some knew, some didnt, said a U.S. official who sought anonymity to discuss the intelligence matter. The official described the release of the nighttime statement as ungraceful, but said the assessment that Syria was preparing for an attack is sound. Such official statements are typically distributed widely across an administration for internal vetting before theyre publicly released. The White House said the relevant agencies were informed before the statement was published. Yet Trump lent further confusion about the urgency of the matter and his own level of concern by sending out a tweet about domestic politics only minutes later. He cited a Fox news report about the FBIs Russia investigation, writing as he often does about the probe, Witch Hunt! From @FoxNews "Bombshell: In 2016, Obama dismissed idea that anyone could rig an American election." Check out his statement - Witch Hunt!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 27, 2017 Indeed, Trump continued through the next morning to demonstrate his frustration with the Russia investigation and what he calls the American medias fake news with posts on his Twitter feed. Many tweets quoted supportive conservative commentators and Fox News reports. Trump was eager to go after CNN, one of his top media targets, after it retracted a Russia-related story and three journalists involved resigned. So they caught Fake News CNN cold, but what about NBC, CBS & ABC? What about the failing @nytimes & @washingtonpost? They are all Fake News!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 27, 2017 Trumps willingness to mix politics and his administrations ominous red line to Syria opened him up to criticism that he was trying to divert attention from other unfavorable news Monday. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office had found that the Republican plan to replace Obamacare would strip 22 million people of health insurance coverage over the next decade. The Syria statement also prompted a sharp backlash from the Kremlin, which is Assads military ally in his nations civil war. Russian officials denied there is evidence of an imminent chemical attack and called the White House threat unacceptable. The tensions have heightened as Trump is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin next week at the G20 Summit of industrialized nations in Germany. Mondays statement may be seen as a warning not just to Syria but to Russia, which is widely seen as enabling Assads harsh tactics by bolstering his military as he has tried to retain power. Facebook

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Kremlin calls White House warning to Syria unacceptable, denies any Assad chemical attack in the works By Sabra Ayres The Kremlin is calling unacceptable a White House warning to Syrias government that it would pay a heavy price if it carries out another poison gas attack against its own people. Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin, also declared Tuesday that there is no indication that a chemical weapons strike is in the works. The White House said late Monday night that activity had been detected similar to that preceding a nerve gas attack on April 4 that killed dozens of civilians, including children, in rebel-held Idlib province. President Trump responded by launching nearly 60 Tomahawk cruise missiles at a Syrian military airfield that U.S. officials said was used for the chemical attack. It was the first U.S. attack on Syrian forces in the six-year civil war. Russia continues to deny that Assads forces carried out the April 4 gas attack and Peskov criticized the White House for saying there were signs of preparation for another such strike. Peskov said the Kremlin does not think it is possible to lay the blame on the Syrian armed forces for the April strike on the village of Khan Sheikhoun, which the U.S. and its allies said involved sarin, a banned nerve agent. Despite all the demands from the Russian side, an impartial international inquiry into a previous tragedy using chemical agents has not been carried out, the spokesman told Russian news agencies. Peskov criticized the White House warning to Assad, saying such threats to Syrias legitimate leaders are unacceptable. Read More Facebook

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Senate healthcare overhaul hits trouble as Republicans hesitant to proceed to vote By Lisa Mascaro The Senate Republican healthcare bill ran into serious trouble late Monday when key GOP senators indicated they may block the Obamacare overhaul from proceeding to a vote this week. Political turmoil has been building over the bill for days. But GOP tension burst open after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office reported that 22 million more Americans would lose insurance coverage under the plan and that out-of-pocket costs for many of those buying policies on the Affordable Care Act marketplace would rise. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hoped to start procedural votes by Wednesday, and President Trump called key senators over the weekend as support splintered. Its the same political dynamic that stalled the House Republican bill last month, as conservative and centrist factions wrestle for dominance. Conservatives want a more complete repeal of the Affordable Care Act, which they hope will lower premium costs, while centrists are trying to avoid leaving millions of Americans without health coverage. Senate bill doesnt fix ACA problems for rural Maine, tweeted Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine). I will vote no on mtp, she said, referring to the motion to proceed to the bill. Conservative Sen. Mike Lee of Utah is also working to change the bill so that he can vote yes on the procedural motion. We are not there yet, Lees spokesman said. Senators have bristled at what they viewed as McConnells secretive and rushed process, and several other senators said they wanted more time before voting. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas was among those Republicans who shared concerns in weekend calls with Trump. We continue to make progress, Cruz told reporters Monday, as Democrats, who oppose the bill, planned an almost-all-night protest session. Cruz is part of the gang of four conservatives -- including Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky -- who have said they cannot vote for the bill as is. Among the changes being pursued is one provision that would allow insurers to offer cheaper policies that do not meet ACAs requirements and another to let consumers sock more money into health savings accounts We can get there and Im hopeful we will get there, Cruz said. However, he declined to say whether he would agree to Wednesdays procedural vote. Also hesitant to proceed was Nevada Sen. Dean Heller, who has strongly criticized undoing Obamacares Medicaid expansion that has enabled about 200,000 people to gain coverage in his state. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, for example, wanted changes to help residents in her geographically far-flung state where healthcare costs are particularly high. Some senators, though, dismissed the budget analysis and said keeping the ACA would be worse. Its clear the CBO cannot predict the purchasing patterns for millions of Americans, said Georgia Sen. David Perdue, a Trump ally, in a statement. This bureaucratic analysis will do nothing to prevent Obamacare from failing. Others are weighing their votes. Republican Sen. Bob Corker, whose office is receiving thousands of daily calls, spent part of Monday on the phone with health officials in Tennessee as he assesses the fallout in his state of 22 million more people in the country without healthcare. I kind of figured it was going to be a pretty big number, said Corker, who remains undecided. Theres a lot of incoming. CBO says 22 million people lose insurance; Medicaid cuts hurt most vulnerable Americans; access to healthcare in rural areas threatened. 2/3  Sen. Susan Collins (@SenatorCollins) June 26, 2017 Facebook

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Supreme Court puts off decision in three pending cases about borders and immigration By David Savage ((Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Amid its flurry of decisions Monday about Trumps travel ban and cases involving religious liberties and guns, the Supreme Court put off final rulings on three pending cases involving immigration and the U.S. border. In Hernandez vs. Mesa, the court in an unsigned opinion told the U.S. appeals court in New Orleans to take a second look at a border shooting case. The parents of a 15-year-old Mexican boy sued a U.S. border patrol agent who shot and killed the teenager when he was standing a few feet from the border on the Mexican side. The 5th Circuit had thrown out the parents suit. The facts alleged in the complaint depict a disturbing incident resulting in a heartbreaking loss of life, the court said in sending the case back for a further hearing. The court said it would rehear in the fall a Los Angeles case involving whether immigrants awaiting deportation can be jailed indefinitely, or instead have a right to a bond hearing after six months. The courts action suggests the eight justices were evenly split in Jennings vs. Rodriguez. The court also said it will rehear the case of Sessions vs. Dimaya to decide whether non-citizens can be deported for an offense like breaking into an empty home because it may be deemed a crime of violence. Facebook

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Refugee advocates says even partial reinstatement of travel ban will cause hardship By Laura King Immigration and refugee advocates expressed disappointment Monday with the Supreme Courts partial reinstatement of President Trumps travel ban, saying even limited implementation could cause hardship to refugees and others seeking to travel to the United States from six affected Muslim-majority countries. However, organizations taking part in the months-long legal fight against the revised travel ban expressed hopes that the high court ultimately will reject the restrictions after arguments are heard in October. And they welcomed what they described as an implicit rebuke of the White Houses assertion that Trump has unfettered powers to exclude arrivals based on purported national security concerns. The initial rollout of the ban, days after Trump took office in January, caused pandemonium at airports across the United States and overseas as tens of thousands of visa-holders arriving from seven affected countries were turned away without warning or detained. After courts blocked that order, Trump issued a revised travel ban that took Iraq off the list. A replay of Januarys travel chaos was unlikely Monday because the courts action will allow visa-holders with bona fide ties to people or entities in the U.S. to enter, meaning students, employees and family members can still get in. But refugee advocates said the courts limited ruling, which the administration can move to implement on Thursday, could leave many would-be arrivals in limbo pending the finalizing of new vetting procedures. The administration had originally said a three-month travel ban was needed in part to review the checks to which would-be entrants are subjected. David Miliband, president of the International Rescue Committee, said the partial reinstatement of the ban particularly threatens vulnerable people waiting to come to the U.S., including those with urgent medical conditions. We urge the administration to begin its long-delayed review of the vetting process and restart a program which changes lives for the better, said Miliband. The National Immigration Law Center, one of the groups that challenged the ban, said that as of this week, approximately 50,500 refugees from the six affected countries had been approved for travel and resettlement in the United States  all having already undergone intensive checks. The Middle East Studies Assn., one the groups contesting the ban in the lower courts, said many students and academics were ensnared by the original order. Even though Mondays court move should allow entry to those studying or working at American academic institutions, many from the affected countries remained wary of leaving and then attempting to re-enter the United States, the group said. Iran  along with Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Syria and Libya  is one of the affected countries, and Southern California is home to a large Iranian American community that was hit hard by the original ban. Some advocates said even with Mondays limited action, there has already been a chilling effect on movement. Todays Supreme Court decision immediately places the status of many Americans families into question again, said Shayan Modarres, legal counsel for the National Iranian American Council. The group said that visas issued to Iranian passport-holders had fallen by nearly half since the legal battle over the ban began, and that obtaining a U.S. visa was becoming so onerous that many would not even try to get one. The Trump administrations new idea is to make it so hard on Iranians and Muslims to get a visa that visa officers will have the unrestricted discretion to reject visa applications, Modarres said. He added that grounds for rejection could be social media postings critical of Trump or not being able to produce airline boarding passes that could have been issued and used more than a decade ago. Advocacy groups reiterated their position  which was argued in a number of the lower court cases that propelled the issue to the high court  that the travel restrictions run counter to core American traditions and values. Mark Hetfield, president of the refugee resettlement agency HIAS, said the group considered the courts move an affirmation that the president does not have unfettered, unchecked authority to bar refugees from the U.S. without evidence to justify such action. But he added that the executive orders partial resurrection would once again cause irreparable damage to refugees, immigrants, and Americas reputation as a welcoming country. The initial ban prompted large nationwide protests, and advocates suggested they would again seek to marshal popular opposition to the restrictions. When the first order went into effect, tens of thousands of Americans showed the world that this is not who we are and not what we want, said Becca Heller, director of the International Refugee Assistance Project, another of the groups involved in the legal challenge. We will never give up defending the rights of those who are affected by this discriminatory executive order. Facebook

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Trump says Supreme Court action on travel ban gives him important tool By Michael A. Memoli .@POTUS statement says SCOTUS action allows him to "use an important tool for protecting our Nation's homeland." Will admin press further? pic.twitter.com/gxBJO5aYYZ  Mike Memoli (@mikememoli) June 26, 2017 President Trump celebrated the Supreme Courts decision Monday to allow a curtailed version of his travel ban to take effect, calling it a clear victory for our national security. In an official White House statement, the president said he was particularly gratified that at least part of the ruling was 9-0; three conservative justices said they would have let the presidents revised executive order take effect completely. My number one responsibility as Commander in Chief is to keep the American people safe. Todays ruling allows me to use an important tool for protecting our Nations homeland, he said. The White House has long maintained that the president was acting within his authority in seeking to temporarily restrict travel to the United States. They most often point to a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act that states a president can suspend or limit entry of individuals whenever the president finds that the entry ... would be detrimental to the interests of the United States. Facebook

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Rival Senate factions push competing agendas as healthcare bill hangs in balance By Laura King Heading into a week of intense jockeying and arm-twisting over the Senates polarizing healthcare plan, the rift appeared to widen Sunday between moderates who consider the measure too punitive and conservatives who want to see the sweeping bill toughened up before agreeing to back it. President Trump, who made the repeal of his predecessors signature Affordable Care Act a campaign centerpiece, expressed optimism about chances for Senate passage, but declared again that he wanted to see a plan with heart  suggesting he might undercut Republican efforts to bring recalcitrant conservatives on board. With Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) seeking to push ahead with a vote this week, the bills prospects hung in the balance. Five GOP senators have said publicly they oppose the measure as written; the defection of only three Republicans would be enough to sink it. Read More Facebook

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Analysis: Atop 2017 losses, a sobering challenge for Democrats aiming at Trump next year By Cathleen Decker Republican Karen Handel, winner of last weeks special House election in Georgia. ( (Bob Andres / Atlanta Journal-Constitution)) Democrats have hoped that President Trumps deep unpopularity would propel them to gains in next years midterm election as they fight to take control of the House and improve their position in the Senate. But last years contests and this years special elections suggest a complication: Trump is so distinctive a politician that its hard to persuade voters that other Republican candidates are carbon copies of the president. Trumps outsized persona makes even those Republicans who share his views seem more moderate, an important attribute to swing voters. That presents a problem for the party out of power. Midterm elections traditionally serve as referendums on the president, but voters complicated views of Trump may give Republicans more running room than his popularity figures suggest. The votes cast by individual Republican incumbents may be more important to their survival than any linkage with the president. Read More Facebook

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Conservatives at Koch summit outline changes to Senate healthcare bill to win their support By Lisa Mascaro Tim Phillips, who heads Americans for Prosperity, the largest of the Koch networks advocacy groups, speaks to the media at the White House in Washington on March 8. (Andrew Harnik / Associated Press) Conservatives floated two amendments for toughening up the Senates Obamacare overhaul this weekend at the influential Koch networks confab of wealthy donors, as Republicans seek ways to win over detractors and tip enough GOP votes for passage. That the Koch network quickly panned the Senate bill is no surprise. The organization of deep-pocketed conservative advocacy groups similarly rejected the House GOP bill this spring until party leaders tacked on tough amendments to appease right-leaning Republicans. Weve been disappointed that movements not been more dramatic toward a full repeal or a broader rollback of this onerous law Obamacare, said Tim Phillips, who heads Americans for Prosperity, the largest of the Koch networks advocacy groups. But we are not walking away, he said. We worked to make the House bill better and it did get better. Were doing the same thing on the Senate front. One key lawmaker attending the weekend summit at the luxurious Broadmoor Hotel, Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.), the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus and a chief negotiator on the House bill, outlined two key changes to the bill that he said could likely win enough conservative support for passage. One amendment from Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) would allow companies that offer insurance policies on the Obamacare marketplace to also offer plans that do not meet the ACAs strict requirements. Such a change would in essence allow insurers to offer cheaper, though skimpier, policies that may help achieve the GOPs goal of lowering premiums for consumers. Another amendment would broaden the ability of those who buy insurance on the marketplace to sock away more money in tax-free Health Savings Accounts to help them pay for their premiums. Cruz is one of four Senate conservatives who have said they would not support the bill unless changes are made, positioning them for negotiations in the days ahead. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) needs to win back some of their votes to pass the bill with his slim 52-seat Republican majority. One of the conservatives, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), was among those feted Saturday night at a reception with Charles Koch, the billionaire industrialist who funds the conservative network. Koch told those gathered for an outdoor cocktail reception on a breezy Colorado Springs evening about how far his team has come over the years at promoting what is a libertarian-leaning conservative agenda. Now when I look at where we are, at the size and effectiveness of this network, Im blown away, he told donors. Koch met Friday with Vice President Mike Pence. But the politics in the Senate remain difficult as McConnell continues to negotiate behind closed doors and rushes the bill to a vote expected this week. On Sunday, one key centrist, Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, doubted a swift resolution. Its hard for me to see the bill passing this week, she said on ABCs This Week. Another crucial vote, Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a physician who had offered his own proposal, also criticized the rush. I frankly would like a few more days to consider this, Cassidy said on CBSs Face the Nation. But Republicans are anxious to resolve the healthcare debate, which has created a logjam in their legislative agenda. Meadows also told reporters if the Senate passes the bill this week, the House could quickly follow with a weekend session -- ahead of a Fourth of July bill signing by the president. Facebook

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Schiff: Obama should have acted on Russian interference, but Trump shouldnt complain By Laura King A top House Democrat says President Obama should have reacted more forcefully upon learning of Russian election-meddling, but also asserted that it was illogical for President Trump to levy such criticism against his predecessor. I think the [Obama] administration needed to call out Russia earlier, needed to act to deter and punish Russia earlier, Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), said in an interview aired Sunday on CNNs State of the Union. Failure to do so, he said, had been a very serious mistake. But Schiff, the ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said Trumps criticism of Obama made little sense in light of the current presidents own inaction in the face of decisive U.S. intelligence conclusions about Kremlin efforts to tip the 2016 race to Trump. Trump, Schiff said, is in no position to complain here in light of the fact that as a candidate, he openly urged the Russians to hack Clintons emails. To criticize Obama is now a bit like someone knowingly receiving stolen property blaming the police for not stopping the theft, said Schiff, a former prosecutor. On Saturday, Trump issued a statement on Twitter referencing a Washington Post report a day earlier detailing the previous administrations wrestling with how, when and whether to make public the degree of Russian interference. Since the Obama Administration was told way before the 2016 Election that the Russians were meddling, why no action? Focus on them, not T! the president tweeted. The Post report said Obama was worried about the appearance of improperly using mounting intelligence reports about Russian activities to aid Clintons candidacy. The subject was particularly inflammatory because at that point in the race, Trump had complained repeatedly about the rigged political process and even suggested he might not respect the election outcome. Facebook

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Trump says hes optimistic about Senate approval of GOP healthcare measure By Laura King President Trump says he believes that backers of a sweeping GOP healthcare measure are going to get there and pass the measure despite the refusal of five Republican senators to endorse the bill as written. Healthcare is a very, very tough thing to get, but I think were going to get it, Trump said on Fox and Friends in an interview aired Sunday that he had touted beforehand on Twitter. We dont have too much of a choice because the alternative is the dead carcass of Obamacare, the president said, referring to the Affordable Care Act, his predecessors signature piece of legislation. Opinion polls have indicated low public support for the version of the healthcare bill passed earlier by the House of Representatives. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), wants to bring the Senate version, unveiled days ago, to a vote this week. In addition to the five Republican senators who have publicly aired their opposition, several others have declined to explicitly endorse the bill, which would overhaul the U.S. healthcare system and set the stage for massive tax breaks that would primarily benefit the wealthiest Americans. With a 52-seat Republican advantage in the 100-member chamber, only three GOP defections would be sufficient to derail the measure, since Vice President Mike Pence could cast a tie-breaking vote. Facebook

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Pro-Trump group launches new attack ad against special counsel Robert Mueller By Lisa Mascaro A Southern California group backing President Trump is out with a new ad attacking special counsel Robert S. Mueller III, criticizing the investigation into the Trump campaigns possible cooperation with Russian interference in the 2016 election. The ad, called Witch Hunt, features conservative favorite Tomi Lahren reflecting Trumps own language to complain about the probe. The more than $400,000 ad buy is expected to start running Sunday. Only in Washington could a rigged game like this be called independent, Lahren says, using air quotes in the ad to emphasize her point. She is now a senior advisor to Great America Alliance, which backs Trump. The ads chief complaint echoes Trumps criticism that Muellers team has ties to Democrats, because some of the lawyers have given campaign contributions to the party. Trump has also complained of the relationship between fired FBI Director James B. Comey and Mueller, who was once his boss. Mueller is a registered Republican. Among the members of the legal team he is assembling for the Russia probe -- which is also looking into whether the president obstructed the federal investigation by firing Comey -- four have donated to Democrats. One who gave the maximum donation to Trump rival Hillary Clinton also donated to Republicans. Both Republicans and Democrats have praised Muellers credentials and ability to handle the Russia probe as an independent investigation. The group, which ran a similar attack against Comey ahead of his testimony earlier this month on Capitol Hill, has emerged as a key pro-Trump organization. Facebook

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Koch brothers political network says Senate GOP healthcare bill is insufficiently conservative By Associated Press ( (Andrew Harnik / Associated Press)) Chief lieutenants in the Koch brothers political network lashed out at the Senate Republican healthcare bill on Saturday, becoming a powerful outside critic as GOP leaders try to rally support for their plan among rank-and-file Republicans. This Senate bill needs to get better, said Tim Phillips, who leads Americans For Prosperity, the Koch networks political arm. It has to get better. Phillips called the Senates plans for Medicaid a slight nip and tuck over President Obamas healthcare law, a modest change he described as immoral. The comments came on the first day of a three-day private donor retreat at a luxury resort in the Rocky Mountains. Invitations were extended only to donors who promise to give at least $100,000 each year to the various groups backed by the Koch brothers Freedom Partners  a network of education, policy and political entities that aim to promote small government. No outside group has been move aggressive over the years-long push to repeal Obamas healthcare law than the Kochs, which vowed on Saturday to spend another 10 years fighting to change the healthcare system if necessary. The Koch network has often displayed a willingness to take on Republicans  including President Trump  when their policies arent deemed conservative enough. Read More Facebook

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Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions wants to get tough on crime. These people think hes got it all wrong By Jaweed Kaleem Atty. Gen. Jeff Sessions has vowed to crack down on crime by sending more criminals to prison for longer periods of time. Every one of our citizens, no matter who they are or where they live, has the right to be safe in their homes and communities from the scourge of criminal gangs, rapists, carjackers and drug dealers, Sessions said in an address to law enforcement officials in Memphis, Tenn., last month. In his view, imprisoning more criminals would make families safer, and fewer people would break the law if there were more severe punishments for crimes such as drug offenses. In a recent memo to federal prosecutors, Sessions instructed them to pursue the harshest punishments legally allowed, a reversal of an Obama-era move giving federal lawyers more leeway to reserve such prosecutions for repeat offenders and people who had committed the worst of crimes. Department of Justice officials hope the changes at the federal level  where a sliver of crimes across the country is prosecuted  will trickle down to a similar approach to crime in states. Read More Facebook

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Vice President Mike Pence stops in for an unscheduled chat with billionaire Charles Koch By Lisa Mascaro Vice President Mike Pence popped in for a visit this weekend with Charles Koch, the billionaire GOP donor hosting his semi-annual confab of like-minded business leaders assessing their priorities for the White House and Congress. The meeting was not listed on Pences official schedule for the day. President Trump never much enjoyed backing from Koch s sprawling, secretive, political enterprise, which has emerged as a libertarian-leaning power center, sometimes overshadowing the traditional Republican Party apparatus with its high-dollar donors and vast operations. Kochs group did not endorse the GOP presidential nominee. But the network has always had close ties with Pence. The vice president had previously attended the exclusive gathering of donors, held this weekend at the luxurious Broadmoor hotel. And his top staff was plucked from a key Koch organization, Freedom Partners. Pence and Koch and their top aides spoke for nearly an hour late Friday, according to a Koch spokesman. They discussed tax reform, the GOPs healthcare overhaul and other heavy legislative lifts that have run into resistance in the Republican-controlled Congress. The aide described the talks as casual. Pence was in the area making other stops, including at the Air Force Academy and an evening fundraiser for GOP Sen. Cory Gardner. Even without investing in Trump, the Koch network has made impressive strides in advancing its agenda this year. Congress swiftly rolled back more than a dozen regulations, including some intended to protect the environment, that Koch-backed groups complained were too rigorous and invasive in industry operations. The Koch network groups, including Freedom Partners, a free market-oriented, chamber of commerce-type organization, is pushing the Trump administration and Congress to pass tax reform and overhaul healthcare. Both those efforts have stalled in Congress amid Republican infighting, but the Koch groups is able to put their army of resources  money, staff and volunteers in the states  to pressure lawmakers to act. Facebook

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Kris Kobach fined for misleading court and refusing to produce previously exposed Trump memo By Colleen Shalby (Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press) Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach has been fined $1,000 for misleading a federal court in an effort to keep two documents private. The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit last year against Kobach arguing that his states proof of citizenship law violates the National Voter Registration Act. ACLU lawyers asked Kobach to produce two documents they said pertained to the case. One of those documents was a draft of a proposed amendment to the National Voter Registration Act. The second was a document that had been photographed and widely shared in late November after Kobach met with then-President-elect Donald Trump. The power of a zoom lens exposed certain details of his proposal to Trump to deport potential terrorists. In a 24-page ruling made public Friday, U.S. Magistrate Judge James OHara wrote that Kobach did not accurately represent the contents of the documents when he argued against producing them. Defendant refused to produce these documents, asserting that they are beyond the scope of reopened discovery, do not seek relevant information, and are protected by the attorney-client, deliberative-process, and executive privileges, the judge wrote. The court took Kobach at his word, OHara wrote, but upon review of the documents  produced under a court order  found that they did relate to the voting rights case. The judge wrote that while the court could not say that Kobach flat-out lied, the defendants statements can be construed as wordplay meant to present a materially inaccurate picture of the documents. For now, the documents will remain classified, as Kobach designated them. But, OHara wrote, that status could change. Trump tapped Kobach last month to serve as vice chairman of a presidential commission that would oversee a voter fraud investigation. Facebook

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Number of refugees admitted to U.S. drops by almost half By Tracy Wilkinson (Patrick T. Fallon / For the Los Angeles Times) The number of refugees admitted to the United States was cut by nearly half in the first three months of the Trump administration compared with the final three months of the Obama presidency, reflecting the new presidents skepticism toward immigration. Government statistics released Friday showed that more than 25,000 refugees were permitted to enter and reside in the United States at the end of the Obama administration. In the initial months under President Trump, the number fell to 13,000. The statistics were released by the Department of Homeland Security, based on information supplied by the State Department. Countries of origin were largely unchanged. In both periods, two-thirds of the arrivals came from five countries: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Iraq, Somalia and Myanmar. Refugees from two of those countries  Syria and Somalia  would have been banned under Trumps executive order against entries from certain Muslim-majority nations, but federal courts have blocked the order. Trumps original order covered Iraqis as well, but he omitted Iraq from his revised order. The data suggest that the Obama administration, as it was about to turn over power to Trump, significantly stepped up the number of refugees admitted. Arrivals in its final three months reflected an 86% year-over-year increase compared to the same period the previous year. In Trumps first three months, arrivals were 12% lower than for the same period in the previous year. Trump has sought to limit the number of refugees to 50,000 this year. But adverse rulings in the courts could work against him. The United States already has one of the lowest quotas of refugee admissions among major receiving countries. Nations closer to conflict zones such as Syria have taken in millions of refugees. More people have been displaced from their home nations, because of violence and poverty, than at any time since World War II. Facebook

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Trump nominates former Dodgers co-owner Jamie McCourt as ambassador to Belgium By Lauren Rosenblatt Trump nominated Jamie McCourt, former co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, as ambassador to Belgium. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) President Trump nominated Jamie McCourt, former co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, to be the ambassador to Belgium on Thursday night. McCourt, who co-owned the Dodgers with her husband, Frank, until their messy 2011 divorce, has donated money to several Republican organizations, including funds for Trumps campaign and his transition to the White House. McCourt was among many business leaders who signed their support for Trump early on in his campaign, praising his plan for economic development and growth. In the months leading up to Trumps victory, McCourt gave more than $400,000 to the Trump victory fund, according to data from the Federal Election Commission. She signed a letter in October 2016 with 100 other business executives and CEOs championing Trumps plan and criticizing opponent Hillary Clinton for having thrown in the towel on strong economic growth. McCourt was listed as a 2016 State Victory Finance Chair for Trumps campaign in July, according to a report from the GOP. Robert Wood Johnson, chairman and CEO of the New York Jets and Trumps nominee for ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, was also on the list as Trump Victory vice chair. After Trump won the election, McCourt continued to financially support his transition to office. In December, she helped host a fundraiser breakfast for the incoming president where tickets sold for $5,000 a piece. Prior to her support for Trump, McCourt also donated to the campaigns of several other Republican presidential candidates, including John Kasich, Marco Rubio and Carly Fiorina, although in much smaller amounts. In the past, she has also supported former President Obama, contributing to his campaign and victory funds in 2011 and donating $50,000 to the inauguration in 2009. She donated about $2,000 to Hillary Clinton for her presidential campaign in 2007, according to the FEC. McCourts ex-husband said his former wife had political aspirations of her own, with an end goal of ending up in the White House, according to a March 2010 Los Angeles Times article. Her high-profile divorce gathered a lot of public attention and ended in dispute over finances and assets. McCourt has founded and directed entrepreneurial enterprises in Los Angeles and Boston throughout her career as a entrepreneur and attorney. Her investment firm, Jamie Enterprises, invests in real estate and technology start-ups. She has degrees from Georgetown University, the University of Maryland School of Law and from MIT/ Sloan School of Management. The Senate must confirm McCourts nomination for ambassador. Facebook

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Nevada Sen. Heller -- a key swing vote -- says he opposes Senate healthcare bill By David Lauter (Andrew Harnik / AP) Nevada Sen. Dean Heller said Friday that he planned to vote against the Republican healthcare bill, a potentially key defection. Although the White House and Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky have said they plan further negotiations over the bill, its going to be very difficult to get me to a yes, Heller said at a news conference in Nevada with Gov. Brian Sandoval (R). The bill unveiled Thursday by McConnell is simply not the answer, he said. In this form, I will not support it. Given the unified Democratic opposition to the bill, McConnell can afford to lose only two Senate Republicans, so Hellers announcement is significant. A no vote by Heller would not seal the fate of the bill, however. Heller is widely viewed as the most vulnerable Republican senator up for reelection in 2018 -- the only one running in a state that Hillary Clinton carried last year -- and Republican leaders have been hoping to avoid having to count on his vote. Heller cited several reasons for opposing the bill, but the chief one was its deep reductions in federal support for Medicaid. This bill will mean a loss of coverage for millions of Americans and many Nevadans, he said. Nevada, under Sandoval, has used its authority under the Affordable Care Act to expand Medicaid, which has given health coverage to more than 210,000 additional state residents, Sandoval said. These are folks who are worth fighting for, he added. The cutbacks the Senate bill, which would end Medicaid expansion, would cost the state $120 million a year by 2022, with the cost rising sharply after that the governor said. Thats a cost that the state cannot sustain. Heller also cited the bills impact on treatment for opioid addiction and the likelihood that the plan would fail to reduce premiums. There isnt anything in this piece of legislation that will lower your premiums, he said, contradicting one of the main arguments that supporters of the bill have made. Hellers announcement increases the pressure on McConnell to find ways of persuading several other reluctant senators to support the bill. Four conservatives, Sens. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Mike Lee of Utah, Ted Cruz of Texas and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, said Thursday they were opposed to the bill in its current form because it does not go far enough to roll back the Affordable Care Act. Several more centrist senators, including Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Rob Portman of Ohio and Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia, have voiced concerns similar to Hellers about the depth of the bills Medicaid cutbacks and its impact on opioid treatment. Collins and Portman have both said they want to review the analysis of the bill from the Congressional Budget Office before making up their minds. The budget office has said it will release that assessment early next week. Facebook

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Trump signs VA reform bill to make it easier to discipline and fire employees By Lauren Rosenblatt President Trump signed into law Friday a bill that will ease restrictions on the discipline and termination of employees from the troubled veterans affairs department. The Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 is designed to speed up the process to discipline an employee for misconduct and put more decision-making power in the hands of Secretary of Veterans Affairs David Shulkin. The act is in response to the 2014 VA scandals involving long wait times for medical care and attempts by VA employees to cover up the delays. Trump, who promised to improve healthcare for veterans during his campaign, said the bill was one of the largest reforms to the VA in its history and is essential to making sure our veterans are treated with respect. The bill passed the House with bipartisan support June 13 and the Senate on June 6. Although the bill is widely supported by veterans advocacy groups, civil servant unions condemn the legislation as a way to get around long-standing protections for government employees and whistle-blowers. The reform, Shulkin said, will not be used as a tool for mass firings, but rather a way to raise morale throughout the department and attract new employees. Slow, steady, incremental change isnt what this organization needs, Shulkin said. Right now, I believe this is progress. Facebook

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Mexico pushes back against Trumps tweet calling it the second deadliest country in the world By Kate Linthicum Mexicos Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray speaks during a news conference in Cancun, Mexico, on June 19. (PEDRO PARDO/AFP/Getty Images) After President Trump incorrectly tweeted that Mexico is the second deadliest country in the world after Syria, the Mexican government responded quickly. No, Mexico isnt the second deadliest place on the globe, said a tersely worded statement issued by Mexicos secretary of foreign relations, pointing to a host of other Latin American countries that have higher per capita murder rates. And while homicides have been rising in Mexico in recent years, rising violence in Mexico is inextricably linked to demand for drugs in the United States, the statement said. Illicit drug trade is indeed the most important cause of violence in Mexico and drug trafficking is costing thousands of lives both in Mexico and the U.S., the foreign ministry said Thursday. However, as has been repeatedly stated by the U.S. government itself, drug trafficking is a shared problem that will end only by addressing its root causes: high demand for drugs in the U.S. and supply from Mexico and other countries. In order to be effective, we must be able to move beyond finger-pointing, the statement said. The Mexican government issued the response after Trump tweeted a reference to a controversial recent study that ranked Mexico as the worlds second most-dangerous conflict zone after Syria. Trump misrepresented the study in his tweet, saying Mexico was just ranked the second deadliest country in the world. He also neglected the considerable debate about the studys accuracy. The annual Armed Conflict Survey, released this year by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, has been called into question by the Mexican government and others who say it wrongly points to the existence of an armed conflict in Mexico. The existence of criminal groups is not sufficient criteria to speak of a non-international armed conflict, said a joint statement issued by Mexicos secretaries of governance and foreign relations in May, adding that drug-war violence is part of a bigger regional problem. Although Mexicos homicide rate has soared  the first two months of 2017 were the most violent since the government started releasing such statistics in 1997  other countries are experiencing higher homicide rates. In January, Mexico had a homicide rate of 20 deaths per 100,000 people, according to a Times analysis of Mexican crime statistics. By comparison, El Salvadors homicide rate was 81 deaths per 100,000 people in 2016, according to InSight Crime, a think tank that studies organized crime in Latin America. Venezuela had a homicide rate of 59 deaths per 100,000 people. Trump ended his tweet with a frequent campaign mantra: We will BUILD THE WALL! Mexico was just ranked the second deadliest country in the world, after only Syria. Drug trade is largely the cause. We will BUILD THE WALL!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2017 Facebook

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Supreme Court says final decisions of term will come on Monday By David Savage The Supreme Court is shown at sunset on Feb. 13, 2016. (Jon Elswick / Associated Press) (Jon Elswick / Associated Press) The Supreme Court announced it will hand down its final rulings for this term on Monday. But that does not mean the justices will actually decide the six cases that remain, which include three significant disputes involving immigration and the U.S. borders. Heres a look at the notable decisions so far. On Nov. 30, with one seat on the court still vacant, the eight justices heard arguments in a Los Angeles case on whether noncitizens who face possible deportation can be held in jail indefinitely or instead have a right to a bond hearing after six months. The case, Jennings vs. Rodriguez, has taken on added importance in the Trump era, but the long delay may signal that the justices are split 4-4. If so, the court may announce Monday that the case will be reheard in the fall, leaving it to new Justice Neil M. Gorsuch to cast the tie-breaking vote. Also still pending, since January, is a California case that will decide whether a crime such as breaking into an empty home qualifies as a crime of violence, triggering automatic deportation, even for an immigrant who is a longtime legal resident. A ruling in Sessions vs. Dimaya could affect thousands of deportations The third case, pending since February, is a closely watched border shooting. At issue in Hernandez vs. Mesa is whether a U.S. agent can be sued for fatally shooting a 15-year-old who was standing on the Mexican side of the border. On Friday, the justices gave a second chance to a Korean restaurant owner from Memphis who faces deportation for selling Ecstasy pills. Based on his lawyers advice, he pleaded guilty to the drug charge, having been assured it would not trigger his deportation. The lawyer was wrong. By a 6-2 vote in Lee vs. United States, the court said the Korean man may withdraw his guilty plea and go to trial. But for his attorneys incompetence, he would not have accepted a plea, said Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.. Dissenting were Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr.. The justices, including Gorsuch, are likely to rule in a significant case on religion and funding for church schools. In Trinity Lutheran vs.Comer, the justices will decide whether states may exclude church schools from receiving public funds. Also still pending, but on a different track, is the Trump administrations appeal over his blocked foreign travel ban. The court may act on that appeal at any time. Facebook

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Trump backs L.A. Olympic bid in meeting with IOC officials By Michael A. Memoli The opening ceremonies of the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. (Ken Hively / Los Angeles Times) President Trump pledged his full support for the Los Angeles bid to host a future Summer Olympics, the White House said Friday after an Oval Office meeting with the head of the International Olympic Committee. Trump met Thursday with IOC President Thomas Bach and three U.S. members of the IOC -- Larry Probst, Anita DeFrantz and Angela Ruggiero. A White House official called it a very constructive conversation in which Trump backed a potential third Summer Games in Los Angeles. With only L.A. and Paris bidding to host the 2024 games, the IOC is moving to reward both cities, giving one hosting duties in 2024 and the other in 2028. The United States hasnt hosted a Summer Olympics since the Centennial games in Atlanta in 1996. Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said he discussed the citys Olympic bid during a post-election conversation with Trump last November and that the then-president elect pledged his backing. Facebook

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Trump says he tweeted about tapes to influence Comeys account of their private conversations By Michael A. Memoli .@POTUS on why he wanted former FBI Dir. James Comey to believe there were tapes of their conversations pic.twitter.com/pCuibM5Z6k  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) June 23, 2017 President Trump called it bothersome that the special counsel now overseeing the Russia probe was good friends with fired FBI Director James B. Comey, and said he hinted at having tapes of his private conversations  apparently falsely  to try to influence Comeys eventual testimony. The president made his remarks during an interview that aired Friday morning on Fox & Friends, but was recorded on Thursday just hours after he tweeted that he did not, in fact, have tapes. Trump said that floating the possibility they did exist might have forced Comey to tell what actually took place at the events. When he found out that, I, you know, that there may be tapes out there, whether its governmental tapes or anything else, and who knows, I think his story may have changed, Trump said. My story didnt change. My story was always a straight story. Foxs Ainsley Earhardt followed up: So it was a smart way to make sure he stayed honest in those hearings? It wasnt very stupid, I can tell you that, Trump answered. Many disagree, including Republicans. Comey testified that Trumps tweet is what prompted him to as
A former 7-Eleven manager was sentenced Wednesday to 180 days in jail and three years probation for a plot to steal $32,000 from the Costa Mesa store where she worked and then report a carjacking in an attempt to cover it up, according to court records.

An Orange County Superior Court judge handed down the sentence immediately after Nora Cortez Mercado, 38, pleaded guilty to two felony counts of conspiracy to commit a crime.

In August 2014, Mercado, a Santa Ana resident, called the Costa Mesa Police Department to report that she was robbed while on her way to make a bank deposit with $32,000 in cash from the convenience store, police said.

Authorities said she told investigators that a masked man with a handgun approached her in an alley behind the store at Orange Avenue and East 17th Street. Mercado claimed the robber took the cash and her 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, according to authorities.

Investigators said they discovered discrepancies in her story during a follow-up interview and arrested her.

Originally, authorities believed that a Santa Ana man, Jose Zarate Alvarez, helped Mercado in the plot, but charges against him were dropped about two months later.

Alvarezs lawyer argued that Mercado implicated Alvarez in an attempt to deflect blame.
Solo cruisers, who are usually charged for two people even though theyre traveling alone, can catch a break with some companies that are waiving the additional charge this year and next.

European Waterways, which runs hotel-style barges on Europes rivers, announced last week that it is eliminating the double occupancy requirement in a nod to the growing popularity of traveling solo.

Among the destinations served by the line are Frances Burgundy region, Scotlands Caledonian Canal and Italys Po Valley and Venice.

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Uniworld River Cruises and Ponant cruise company, a French line that offers big-ship cruising, also waive the single supplement charge.

Tauck plans to waive the single supplement charge on its European river trips in 2018, offering savings of up to 50% for solo travelers.

The solo travel market is booming, and many large cruise lines are trying new ways to target the market by adding special cabins for one, offering to match roommates and staging events that make mixing and mingling easier. Norwegian Cruise Line led the way in 2010, introducing studio rooms with full-size beds for singles.

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As my older daughter prepared last summer to take off for college, there was just one thing left to do: Kidnap her and take her someplace where there is little Wi-Fi, no boyfriend and no threat of exams. It had to be lovely, exciting and adventurous, somewhere we could forge memories she would have forever.

That place was Namibia.

Namibia isnt Africas rock star. Although it has animals, they are scattered over a wide area, so people visit here once theyve had enough of traditional driving safaris.

The country, with 2.3 million people living on land twice the size of California, is graced with enormous natural beauty  a rugged Atlantic coast, desert, bluffs, wide river systems and the worlds largest sand dunes.

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It also has desert-adapted lions and desert elephants, oryx, ostrich and cheetah, but most people come to Namibia because its safe, friendly and among the most untouched countries on Earth.

MORE AFRICA: Tanzanias Tinga Tinga style 

I called Leora Rothschild at Rothschild Safaris and told her my plan. Rothschild, a South African with a U.S.-based company, knows Africa well and is my go-to planner. We devised a Namibia itinerary that would take us to four locations over two weeks.

Naankuse sanctuary

After a lengthy flight from London, we spent the first night at Naankuse Lodge and Wildlife Sanctuary, a 30-minute drive from the international airport outside Windhoek, the capital. The private sanctuary, on 3,460 acres, has an elegant lodge, six individual chalets, a pool and a restaurant.

The sanctuary, a passion project of conservationists Marlice and Rudie van Vuuren, never turns away an animal. Most are injured or orphaned. If they are cubs, as in the case of cheetahs Kiki, Aiko and Aisha, Marlice raises them by hand, often in her home.

Cheetahs and cattle farmers are often at war in Namibia because the cats prey on the cows. Farmers often shoot them on sight, but the Van Vuurens team will fly in, dart the cheetah and relocate it to Naankuse.

Cubs and other large cats, once raised by humans, cannot be released back into the wild, so they stay at Naankuse. The cost to feed them became so burdensome that the Van Vuurens decided to open an upscale lodge and an education center to help offset the cost.

MORE AFRICA: In Zambia, a safari means going with the flow 

Nankuuse is a breathtaking opportunity to get up close and interact with animals you would otherwise see in documentaries or from a vehicle.

You can choose a different activity each day, which typically costs $25 to $40 per person. You can take a walk with Kiki, the cheetah, or the hand-reared caracal; wander the veldt with bushmen and learn about their world; or take a horseback ride around the property.

Besides walking with the beautifully natured, 10-year-old Kiki, our favorite activity was the behind-the-scenes tour with Marlice, where we met animals housed at the feeding center and played with baby baboons, which laugh just like humans when tickled.

Info: Naankuse Lodge

Sossusvlei and Namib-Naukluft National Park

An oryx walks in the early morning past Dune 45 in the Namib desert at Sossusvlei. (Hannes Steyn / Getty Images)

We left Naankuse and flew west on an 18-seater toward the Namib Desert. The vast unmarked sand dunes we skimmed over looked like a pale, turbulent ocean.

Some people find this scenery lacking in life. I find it incredibly beautiful and am astonished when I see creatures that survive here. Zebras, aardvarks, ostriches, oryxes, snakes and beetles battle it out with the unforgiving sun and rely on a water supply that comes mainly from fog.

If youve seen photos of dead trees standing on a flat plain surrounded by brilliant orange dunes, thats Deadvlei. The dunes, some of the largest in the world, are part of Sossusvlei and are within Namib-Naukluft National Park.

Deadvlei could well be part of a burned-out planet turned tourist destination. Skeletal trees still stand 500 years after their water system was cut off, scorched by the sun and with too little water to decompose.

Behind Deadvlei is Big Daddy, the second-largest sand dune in the park, at 1,066 feet, and the one tourists climb and jump down daily.

We stayed at &Beyonds luxurious Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, on private land outside the park but with access to its dunes and other activities.

Our favorite was quad biking. Just before sunset, our guide took us through the dunes to a point where we could look down on a vast expanse dotted with Namibias mysterious fairy circles.

These circles, seen all over the country, are round shapes in which nothing grows. Many theories exist, ranging from alien life to radioactivity in the rock below, but none has withstood scientific testing. The circles remain a mystery and are part of the eerie thrall of Namibia.

At night wed climb into the lodges observatory with the visiting astronomer and gaze through the telescope at the unadulterated night sky, then head back to our suite, built of rock to mimic the landscape.

Info: Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Hoanib, Kaokoland

Visitors and guide sit around fire in folding camp chairs at sunset at Hoanib Camp in Kaokoland, Namibia. (Robert J. Ross / Getty Images)

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, in Kaokoveld in remote northwestern Namibia, sits close to the Skeleton Coast, so named because the shoreline is littered with shipwrecks.

Flat plains scattered with rocks give way to the occasional rocky mound, and trees stand expectantly beside dry river beds. Other than at the seven-tent camp, human life here can be counted in the dozens for hundreds of miles.

If you are lucky you will see desert-adapted elephants and lions. Desert lions can travel for hundreds of miles and are stronger, leaner and more able to cope with harsh surroundings than plains lions.

On a drive to the coast, we followed lion tracks for miles and were rewarded with a female atop a rock, regally overlooking the emptiness.

The luxury at this camp, as far-flung as it is, is staggering. The tents are huge and decorated like glamorous suites at a groovy New York hotel. There is no privation here, and one wonders what it takes to get fresh lettuce this far.

Info: Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp

Hartmanns Valley

The magical Serra Cafema Camp sits on the banks of the Kunene River in Hartmanns Valley, facing an uninhabited part of Angola and the continuation of the Namib Desert.

Remote, yes, but there is much to do at this camp. The Himba, Angolas magnificent ocher-covered nomadic tribe, live in this area. If you go soon you may see the last of the traditionally dressed women, topless and in goatskin aprons with ochre-and-fat-covered dreadlocks.

You can boat and fish on the river, and if you go at sunset you can disembark on the other side and say you have had cocktails in Angola.

The quad biking in this area is spectacular. If you have an adventurous guide, you can rocket up and down the sand dunes.

You also can spot hardy wildlife, such as the incredible Namaqua chameleon, on a morning walk in the Marienfluss Mountains, or go before sunset and have sundowner cocktails on the shimmering red dunes.

The tents at Serra Cafema are a testament to rustic luxury. Take Swiss Family Robinsons treehouse, put it on the ground, add a bit of velvet, a bathtub and some Himba-inspired designer cushions, and you have a place you wont want to leave.

Indeed, Namibia is a place you wont want to leave at all. We returned home with memories and more implanted in my daughters mind. I predict a life of adventure travel for her.

Info: Serra Cafema Camp

If you go

THE BEST WAY TO WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA

From LAX, Qatar, KLM, Lufthansa, Delta, South African, Air Berlin, British, Turkish, Emirates and American offer connecting service (change of planes) to Windhoek. Restricted round-trip fares from $1,649, including taxes and fees.

Rothschild Safaris; (800) 405-4243. Ourtrip cost $9,500 a person, excluding airfare. Rothschild has Namibia safaris from $4,800 per person.

TO LEARN MORE

Namibia Tourism Board

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It was time to paint the second giraffe.

What color do you want him? Mwatatu Swathe, our tour guide for the day, asked. Blue? Green? Its Tinga Tinga. It can be anything.

But Thomas Bosco, my art instructor, had other ideas. He squirted red, orange, brown and yellow paint from used water bottles onto the splattered table and ran a brush through all of them, swirling up cordovan.

This  the color of the penny loafers I wore in junior high school  would be the coat of my second giraffe. The dots remained black because some things must be recognizable even in the whimsical Tinga Tinga universe.

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Boscos atelier was a thatched shed at the Ujamaa artists cooperative in the bustling town of Mto wa Mbu  also known as Mosquito River  just outside Tanzanias famous Ngorongoro crater.

MORE AFRICA: In Zambia, a safari means going with the flow 

My husband, John Muncie, and I were here to paint Tinga Tingas, the Tanzanian outsider art we saw at roadside shops lining the routes to the countrys national parks.

It is the African version of velvet Elvises and big-eyed waifs.

Tinga Tinga art is a child of the 60s, when Edward Saidi Tingatinga, an unemployed construction worker in Dar es Salaam, the largest city, turned old Masonite ceiling tiles, used paintbrushes and the colorful dregs in discarded bicycle paint cans into a new style of folk art. (His name is one word; the style is usually spelled as two.)

Depending on which version of Tinga Tinga history you believe, Edward Tingatinga was inspired by Congolese or Mozambican art, the mural paintings of the Ndonde people or the sayings and legends of the Makua tribal culture.

What is certain is that people responded when Tingatinga started painting colorful, whimsical, semi-cartoon animals with lots of dots.

Fifty years later, the eponymous Tinga Tinga style can be found in art galleries and street corners all over Tanzania and painted on stretched canvases, keychains, purses, salad servers and more.

Our first contact with Tinga Tinga art occurred in late February soon after we landed in Arusha, the main city near the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Tanzanias safari central. Our hotel gift shop had an assortment of dotted, whimsical Tinga Tinga animals.

From there  guided by Infinite Safari Adventures, a Los Angeles-based African tour company  we made the classic trek to Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.

Tinga Tinga accompanied us the whole way. The closer to a game park, the more dense the shops. We stopped counting at Mto wa Mbu after passing more than 20.

At the entrance to Serengeti National Park you could buy a pack of Tinga Tinga postcards or a Tinga Tinga-decorated headband.

The roadside Tinga Tinga paintings I saw sold for $35 to hundreds of dollars, depending on the size of the canvas and the complexity of subject.

But price and provenance are tricky things in the Tinga Tinga world.

MORE AFRICA: Its Namibias purity that compel people to visit 

Every roadside painting is subject to bargaining, and the expensive Edward Tingatinga-signed paintings we admired in Arushas Cultural Heritage Centre (priced at $2,800 each) and in galleries in Zanzibars Stone Town ($500 for two, if you bargain) may not be as original as advertised. Ask for a certificate of provenance if you want to make sure.

The hunt for original Tinga Tingas (by Edward) has become fierce with the styles growing popularity.

Collectors go house to house in Dar es Salaam looking for originals, a Stone Town dealer told us.

But authenticity seems beside the point. Tinga Tingas are like roadside flowers: vibrant and fun (think Pogo-meets-National Geographic-meets Kandinsky) and as colorful as the clothes of Tanzanian women.

Mr. Macho, a Tinga Tinga artist and owner of the Secret Shop in Mto wa Mbu, summed up the modern attitude toward Edward Tingatinga. Im much better, Macho said with a wide smile. Hes past, Im here.

Macho (whose real name is Kisuph Macho Banda) is from Dar es Salaam, where he learned the Tinga Tinga style at the Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society.

Hasin White, a Tinga Tinga artist in a roadside shop outside Tarangire National Park, had a similar story.

I learned in Dar from people from the Tinga Tinga studio, he said.

As I looked over his shoulder at a painting in progress of a Noahs ark of Tinga Tinga animals, I asked him what was key to the Tinga Tinga style.

You present the animals like a cartoon, he said. But he explained that his half-finished work wasnt a real Tinga Tinga.

He pointed to a vibrantly green painting of a mama hyena and her cub and said, That one is real Tinga Tinga. Mr. Tingatinga only painted one animal and maybe a cub.

The Tinga Tinga I learned to paint has two adult giraffes. Edward Tingatinga might not approve, but its hanging in my bedroom gallery nevertheless.

travel@latimes.com

travel@latimes.com

@latimestravel
In early 2014, Yakinge Kolomi faced a nightmarish dilemma.

Boko Haram extremists had recently rampaged through areas close to her village in northeastern Nigeria, massacring men who refused to join them and abducting young women  then forcing them into marriage. Kolomi knew that her 12-year-old daughter, Hafsa, would make an easy target.

She listened to friends who urged her to find Hafsa a husband who could potentially protect her and weighed their advice against her desire to save her daughters childhood and keep her in school. After much deliberation, she reluctantly married her off to a middle-age neighbor in hopes it would save the girls life.

Weeks later, Boko Haram attacked their village. The Islamist militant group killed Kolomis husband, burned down nearby homes and kidnapped groups of children in the chaos. Despite her mothers wish to keep her safe, Hafsa was among the many who disappeared  as did her husband, who was never heard from again.

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The military said that Boko Haram took many children, but they dont know where they are, Kolomi said in an informal settlement for displaced people in the Nigerian town of Jakana. They say some died, but I dont think my daughter did. I think shes alive.

In early May, the world joined Nigeria in celebrating the release of 82 girls Boko Haram kidnapped from their boarding school in the northern town of Chibok in 2014. The Chibok girls, as they came to be known, were a group of 276 students whose plight captured international attention. They were memorialized in the viral Bring Back Our Girls campaign and earned attention from celebrities including then-First Lady Michelle Obama.

A photo released on May 30, 2017, by PGDBA & HND Mass Communication shows newly rescued Chibok schoolgirls waiting on their arrival for rehabilitation at the Women Development Center in Abuja, Nigeria. (Sunday Aghaeze / AFP/Getty Images)

Since the government began negotiating with Boko Haram, 103 of them have been released  21 in October, and the others last month. More than 100 remain in captivity, and some are believed to have died.

But the Chibok girls are only a tiny fraction of the thousands of people  including girls like Hafsa as well as boys  who have been kidnapped by Boko Haram, which is intent on ruling northern Nigeria as a caliphate under an extreme interpretation of sharia, or Islamic law.

Like the Chibok girls, these other children have suffered at the hands of the violent militants. Unlike with the Chibok girls, hardly anyone seems to care. And for the families of missing children, the wounds of their disappearances only deepen with time.

Hafsas mother and six siblings are still without news of the girl, who was kidnapped around the time the militants raided the Chibok boarding school dormitory. They do not even have photos to share with anyone who might be aware of her fate.

People are narrowing it down and saying that the problem is getting better and the Chibok girls are being recovered, so everything will be OK, said Isa Sanusi, media manager for Amnesty International in Nigeria. Nothing is OK. So many other girls were abducted, but no one is even talking about them.

Even those who manage to escape the extremists are often unable to reintegrate back into the society from which they were taken. Many in northern Nigeria, scarred from the violence of recent years, fear the extremists radicalized the former Boko Haram captives, and see them more as willful collaborators than as victims of war crimes.

No women were happy to stay there. If you sat down and started chatting with each other, everyone would be saying I want to go back home.  Amina, a former Boko Haram captive

Men and boys freed from captivity are regularly accused of joining the group willingly and are then held in prison-like conditions. And a wave of female teenage suicide bombers has prompted authorities to treat many young women  the same age as the Chibok girls  as dangerous suspects, not victims in need of psychosocial support. Even the girls families and neighbors are often wary of their returns.

Amina is a case in point.

Aminas last name is being withheld because of her age and the nature of the crimes against her. She was 13 in 2013, when her mother took her out of school to marry an older man named Ali. A clothes vendor, Ali spent time with Boko Haram sympathizers in their hometown of Damaturu.

Fearing the government would soon raid the village and label him a militant, he moved hours away with Amina and his 10-year-old sister to try to start over. But his old friends tracked him down and killed him as punishment for leaving, then abducted Amina and her young sister-in-law. For four months, they held the two girls inside a small house, allowing them to leave only to attend Islamic school or use the bathroom with male supervision.

When the militants guarding the house married Amina off, she spent three weeks avoiding having sex with her new husband. He reported her to the other militants, who then punished her with a public beating in front of every woman in their captivity. She said her beating was used as a warning of what would happen to anyone else who tried to resist.

They beat the hell out of me, she said in a conversation at a UNICEF-supported transit center in Maiduguri.

No one doubts the ruthlessness of Boko Haram. The group has killed more than 20,000 people in northern Nigeria since 2009, and displaced an additional 2 million across the region. At one point, Boko Haram controlled an area the size of Belgium, but an intensified military campaign under President Muhammadu Buhari, who promised in his 2015 election campaign to put an end to the insurgency and secure the release of the missing Chibok girls, has returned much of the northeast to relative government control. Human rights organizations have also accused the military of carrying out abuses against the civilians they are supposed to protect.

Still, conditions remain dire. Humanitarians are now warning that much of the affected area is on the brink of famine, with close to 5 million in urgent need of food.

Amina recovered and soon became pregnant, and delivered a baby in the forest without any medical support. Her husband then married another girl  a 12-year-old who had already married two other fighters before him. Amina said it was common for militants to remarry young girls whose husbands died in battle or moved to new locations. Her 10-year-old sister-in-law was soon married off as well.

When Amina realized she was pregnant again, she and a young friend married to another fighter began to discuss the possibility of escape. No women were happy to stay there, she said. If you sat down and started chatting with each other, everyone would be saying I want to go back home.

What they didnt realize was that home wouldnt necessarily want them back.

When the Chibok girls (by then, young women in many cases) were released, Buhari personally welcomed them back and promised them that the federal government would work to help all other Nigerians who have been abducted safely regain their freedom. For the most part, that hasnt happened.

Aminas first son got sick around the same time she delivered her newborn. With her husband away fighting, she buried her 1-year-old in the forest, waited to heal from her second delivery, and then fled with her friend  the two of them carrying their babies on their backs.

I always intended to run. When the baby died it was almost a relief, she recalled. We decided that we couldnt stay. We didnt care whether we got caught or were killed. We were not afraid of anything.

After three days on foot, they reached the first government-controlled village. Soldiers, suspecting they were suicide bombers, made them stand back and present their babies from afar to prove they werent bombs. Then they held them in a transfer center for three days and dropped them off at a camp for the displaced in the regional capital, Maiduguri.

When Amina finally reconnected with her family members, they said they couldnt wait to see her. But when she returned home, everyone kept their distance, and her stepfather, a police officer, moved out over fears she would kill him on behalf of Boko Haram. After a few months of trying to reintegrate at home, she gave up and moved back to the camp to stay with an acquaintance.

For Amina, its hard to imagine what will come next. At 17, she has already been forced into marriage twice, given birth to two sons, buried one, and faced rejection by the family she dreamed of reuniting with while she was held captive.

I dont want to stay in the camp, but I have no choice, she said. But any troubles I might go through now are not equivalent to what I already went through with Boko Haram.

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Special correspondent OGrady, also reported from Maiduguri. Reporting for this article was supported by the International Reporting Project.

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In an attack that British Muslims say was aimed directly at them, a man plowed a van into a crowd of Muslim worshipers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring 10 people. London police are investigating it as a terrorist incident.

Police said another man died at the scene, although he was receiving first aid at the time and it wasnt clear if he died as a result of the attack or something else.

British Prime Minister Theresa May condemned the attack on innocent people and declared that Britain would stop at nothing to defeat extremism.

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Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed, she said in a televised statement.

Police said the 48-year-old white man who was driving the van that hit those leaving evening prayers at the Finsbury Park Mosque has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Police have not released his identity. He has been taken to a hospital as a precaution.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said police are investigating whether the death of the man getting first aid was a direct result of the attack, but it was too early to say for sure.

The crash occurred at a time when the multiethnic neighborhood was crowded with Muslims leaving the mosque after Ramadan prayers. Muslim leaders called it a hate crime and asked the public to stay calm.

Police said the driver was detained by the crowd until police arrived.

The crash occurred shortly after midnight, when police received reports of a collision between a van and pedestrians. Police said eight of the injured were hospitalized; the other two had minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing police give emergency heart massage to at least one of the injured.

A leader of the Muslim Council of Britain called for extra security at mosques in light of the apparent attack. The groups general secretary, Harun Khan, described the incident as a hate crime against Muslims.

During the night, ordinary British citizens were set upon while they were going about their lives, completing their night worship, he said. It appears from eyewitness accounts that the perpetrator was motivated by Islamophobia.

London police  already stretched by a series of tragedies including a June 14 high-rise apartment fire in which 79 people are presumed dead and a June 3 terror attack near London Bridge that killed seven people  said they are putting more officers on the street to reassure the public. Muslim leaders called for calm.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, the first Muslim to serve in that position, said extra police would be deployed. He called the incident a horrific terrorist attack.

Video filmed in the immediate aftermath showed a Caucasian man being detained by police.

Someone in the crowd yelled to others not to harm the man while he was taken into custody. The video of the crash early Monday morning was accessed by the AP.

Someone in the crowd is heard shouting, No one touch him! No one! No one!

The chairman of the Finsbury Park Mosque said the van crash that hit worshipers was a cowardly attack and urged Muslims going to mosques to be vigilant.

Mohammed Kozbar said the Muslim community is in shock. He complained that the mainstream media were unwilling to call the attack a terrorist incident for many hours.

The attack on Monday hits a community already feeling targeted in the fallout from the London Bridge killings and other attacks blamed on Islamic extremists. It also came as Muslims are taking part in the holy month of Ramadan.

While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect, Khan said. The situation is still unfolding and I urge all Londoners to remain calm and vigilant.

British security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with official policy, said hate crimes directed at Muslims have increased nearly five-fold in the wake of several attacks in Britain.

Counter-terror officials said they were closely monitoring terror activity linked to far-right groups but most of the recent attacks have been traced to individuals rather than groups.

Sky News reported that the mosques imam prevented the crowd from beating the attacker until police arrived.

Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House, speaking to Sky News, said the attack clearly targeted Muslims leaving evening prayers during Ramadan.

We have a witness saying that the guy who did what he did, the driver of the van, said I did my bit, which means hes not mentally ill, Kacimi said. This person was conscious. He did what he did deliberately to hit and kill as many Muslims as possible, so he is a terrorist.

But the attack also laid bare the frustrations of a community who believe theyve been unfairly equated with extremists who have carried out atrocities in the name of Islam. Early police caution about declaring the incident to be terrorist-related was interpreted by the community as discriminatory.

May attempted to counter that feeling in her speech, declaring that police arrived at the scene within one minute, and that a terror attack was declared in eight minutes.

Ali Habib, a 23-year-old student, said residents are angry that the mosque attack hasnt been portrayed in the same light as the other attacks across the country.

There has been an outpouring of sympathy for all for the recent terror attacks but hardly a whisper on this attack, he said. People are both scared and angry. Parents are scared to send their children to evening prayers. I dont think people understand how much these attacks affect all of us.

Finsbury Park Mosque was associated with extremist ideology for several years after the 9/11 attacks in the United States, but it was shut down and reorganized. It has not been associated with radical views for more than a decade.

It is located a short walk away from Emirates Stadium, home of the Arsenal football club in north London.

May said she would chair an emergency security Cabinet session Monday. She said her thoughts were with the injured, their loved ones and emergency officials who responded to the incident.

Britains terrorist alert has been set at severe, meaning an attack is highly likely.

Earlier this month on London Bridge, Islamic extremists used a vehicle and then knives to kill eight people and wound many others on the bridge and in the popular nearby Borough Market area. The three Islamic extremists who carried out the attack were killed by police.

In March, a man plowed a rented SUV into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing four people before stabbing a police officer outside Parliament.

Manchester was also hit on May 22 when a suicide bomber killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert.

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UPDATES:

6/19, 6:07 a.m.: This article was updated throughout with additional reaction from British officials and Muslim leaders.

9:45 p.m.: This article was updated with more details and quotes from the scene.

9:10 p.m.: This article was updated with details of the casualties, the Counter Terrorism Command investigating.

7:10 p.m.: This article was updated with a comment from the Muslim Council, more background on the mosque and information about an attack at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

6:25 p.m.: This article was updated with a report that the incident happened near a mosque and other details.

This article was originally published at 5:30 p.m.
Otto Warmbier, the American student imprisoned by North Korea for 17 months and freed last week in a coma, died on Monday afternoon, according to a statement by his family.

The 22-year-old University of Virginia student died at 2:20 p.m. on Monday surrounded by his loving family, said the statement, which was signed by Warmbiers parents, Fred and Cindy Warmbier, and released by the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where Warmbier was receiving treatment.



For the record: A previous version of this article said there were two Americans still being held in North Korea. There are three.

North Korean authorities detained Warmbier in March 2016 as he visited the isolated, authoritarian state as a tourist. Soon afterward, the countrys high court accused him of attempting to steal a propaganda poster from his Pyongyang hotel, and sentenced him to 15 years of hard labor for crimes against the state.

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Fred and Cindy Warmbier received no information about their sons condition while he was in detention. Last Wednesday, he was medically evacuated to the U.S.; on Thursday, North Korea said that it released him on humanitarian grounds. Doctors in Cincinnati declared that he had extensive loss of brain tissue, and was in a state of unresponsive wakefulness.

Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace.  Warmbier family statement

Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today, said the Warmbiers statement.

Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace, it continued. He was home and we believe he could sense that.

Pyongyang said Warmbier fell into a coma after he contracted botulism and took a sleeping pill soon after his sentencing. Yet U.S. doctors have cast doubt on the explanation, and Warmbiers parents lashed out at the isolated state.

Theres no meaning here, Fred Warmbier told Fox News last week. This is a rogue, pariah regime. Theyre terrorists. Theyre brutal. Theres no sense to anything here.

American student Otto Warmbier is escorted by guards into the Supreme Court in Pyongyang, North Korea, on March 16, 2016. (Jon Chol Jin / Associated Press)

The reasons for Warmbiers detention, the cause of his coma, and the circumstances of his release remain unclear.

It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost  future time that wont be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds, the Warmbier family said in the Monday statement. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person. You can tell from the outpouring of emotion from the communities that he touched  Wyoming, Ohio, and the University of Virginia to name just two  that the love for Otto went well beyond his immediate family.

Warmbier was the 2013 salutatorian at Wyoming High School in his hometown of Wyoming, Ohio.

Analysts say North Korea often attempts to use foreign detainees to wrest outside concessions. Yet Warmbiers treatment has only deepened animosity between Pyongyang and Washington, which spiked in recent months amid a game of brinkmanship between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and President Trump.

Warmbiers death could chill efforts to restart a dialogue with North Korea. An academic who serves as an adviser to South Koreas newly elected president, Moon Jae-in, cited the Warmbier case as one reason that Moon was moving cautiously with Pyongyang.

Otto Warmbier had this tragic return. Therefore the atmosphere in Washington is extremely hostile against North Korea, said the professor, Moon Chung-in, who was speaking at New Yorks Asia Society on Monday morning before Warmbiers death was announced. With this kind of behavior, it would be extremely difficult for President Moon to consider going to Pyongyang or have any meaningful interaction with North Korea.

Trump offered condolences to the Warmbier family in a statement on Monday. There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life, he said. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ottos family and friends, and all who loved him.

Ottos fate deepens my Administrations determination to prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency, he continued. The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim.

Three American citizens remain in detention in North Korea: Kim Sang Dok, an accounting instructor at a university in Pyongyang, who was detained in April for unknown reasons; Kim Hak-song, another worker at the university; and Kim Dong Chul, 62, who is serving a 10-year term for alleged espionage.

Politicians on both sides of the aisle decried North Koreas treatment of Warmbier. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) condemned the countrys despicable actions in detaining and holding Otto.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-Fullerton) called for a travel ban to the country. This is a regime that regularly kidnaps foreign citizens and keeps 120,000 North Koreans in barbaric gulags, he said, referring to North Koreas network of political prison camps.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said: We hold North Korea accountable for Otto Warmbiers unjust imprisonment, and demand the release of three other Americans who have been illegally detained.

Times staff writer Barbara Demick in New York contributed to this report.

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UPDATES:

4:30 p.m.: This article has been updated with additional U.S. reaction, corrects number of Americans held.

3:05 p.m.: This article has been updated throughout with staff reporting, Trump statement.

This article was originally posted at 1:45 p.m.
Five years ago, Gazas streets were decked out with maroon-and-white flags to welcome the emir of Qatar, Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani.

Celebratory songs played on the radio as Hamad made the first visit by a foreign head of state to the Hamas-run enclave and pledged $400 million for building projects  a diplomatic coup for the Palestinian militant group.

But in recent weeks, Qatari support has wavered as the tiny Persian Gulf emirate came under political and economic pressure from Arab neighbors to distance itself from Islamist groups in the region. Hamas leaders have been leaving their headquarters in Doha, Qatars capital, and continued support for Qatari construction in the Gaza Strip looks uncertain.

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Qatars precarious situation has prompted Hamas  which is grappling with a power shortage in Gaza that deepened Monday  to seek to repair ties with Egypt. In recent talks in Cairo, Hamas and Egyptian officials have discussed cooperating to shut down the flow of arms and militants to armed groups in the Sinai Peninsula loyal to the militant group Islamic State.

Regional circumstances have changed, Hamas is politically isolated more than ever, said Mkhaimar Abusada, a political science professor at Gazas Al Azhar University. There might be a window of opportunity to recommit with the Egyptians. That might give Hamas a chance to at least avoid further political isolation.

Closer ties with Egypt and an easing of Cairos blockade might help restrain Hamas hawkish military wing from escalating hostilities with Israel. Khalil Haya, the deputy Hamas chief, said Sunday that the group doesnt plan to embark on a new round of fighting with Israel  contradicting remarks from Hamas officials a week earlier.

Qatar became Hamas most important patron following the turmoil of the Arab Spring uprisings that began in 2011. After Syria became engulfed in a civil war, Khaled Meshaal, Hamas former political leader, decamped from Damascus and relocated to Doha. Qatar financed roads, hospitals and salaries in Gaza, as well as electricity purchases from Israel. Its Al Jazeera news channel provided sympathetic news coverage. Qatars support for the 2 million Palestinians in the blockaded territory gave it added prestige within the Middle East.

But now, Qatar finds itself under siege. Many of its Arab neighbors have cut diplomatic ties, and Saudi Arabia has shut air, sea and land borders with Doha. And the pressure on Qatar is reverberating in Gaza.

Relations with Egypt are going well and have improved. There is an Egyptian understanding of the crisis in Gaza.  Khalil Haya, the deputy Hamas chief

After top Hamas officials left Doha, Haya said on Sunday that the groups newly elected political chief, Ismail Haniyeh, has abandoned plans to relocate from Gaza to Qatar. The diplomatic breach is also playing out in a half-finished new residential project in the southern Gaza Strip that is being financed by Qatar and is called Hamad city for the former Qatari leader. The fate of about 1,000 unbuilt homes is now uncertain.

Observers see Qatar and Hamas current crises as stemming in part from the moves of the new U.S. administration in the region, as President Trump lumped Hamas together with Islamic State and other militant Islamist movements.

Hamas has also been under pressure from Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who cut funding for fuel payments for Gazas sole power station as well as payments to Israel for Gazas electricity bill.

On Monday, Mohammed Thabet, the spokesman of the Gaza Electricity Distribution Co., said that Israel had reduced the power it supplies to the enclave by about 7%. The power cut is expected to limit daily power supplies to residences to just three hours from the current allowance of five hours. Hamas officials warned last week that the electricity curtailment could lead to an explosion of violence.

Activists release paper lanterns in solidarity with Palestinians from Gaza, at the Ashkelon beach, Israel, on Monday. (Ariel Schalit / Associated Press)

Hamas is grappling with an external crisis in the region and an internal crisis with the electricity, said Bjorn Brenner, a researcher at the Swedish Defense University and the author of a book on Hamas. Hamas is super worried they will be completely kicked out of Qatar. If this happens they have to have a Plan B, and we dont know exactly what this involves.

Relations between Egypt and Hamas have historically been strained because of the Palestinian groups ties to the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt. Following Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Sisis ouster of the Muslim Brotherhood in 2013, relations between Cairo and Hamas  an offshoot of the Brotherhood  suffered.

Along with Israel, Egypt has enforced a blockade on Gaza by severely restricting Palestinians from crossing into Egypt. At the same time, Egyptian forces have been involved in a crackdown along the Gaza-Egypt border to block smuggling routes that aid militants in the Sinai Peninsula who are loyal to Islamic State.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday after a round of talks with Egypt, Haya sounded conciliatory toward Egypt and said that Cairo might step in to help alleviate the electricity crisis in Gaza.

Relations with Egypt are going well and have improved, he said. There is an Egyptian understanding of the crisis in Gaza and there was a readiness by Egypt to play an important role in solving the crisis.

Haya said that Hamas is determined to block militant groups in Sinai that challenge Egyptian rule and that securing the borders is a joint interest with Cairo.

A rapprochement with Cairo is likely to be viewed with suspicion among some of Hamas sympathizers in the Palestinian territories.

The main objective of Saudi Arabia and Egypt is to pressure Hamas, since Qatar is the only country helping Hamas. They are trying to pressure Hamas to move toward a peace process with Israel, said Nashat Aqtash, a communications professor at Birzeit University in the West Bank who has worked as a consultant to Islamist candidates. The Egyptian government is a servant of the Israelis, the U.S. and the Saudis.

A detente with Cairo would also limit the possibility that Hamas might seek to enhance its ties with Iran, a rival of Saudi Arabia and Egypt. A rekindling of Hamas alliance with Iran  an option that has been pushed by the organizations military wing  would raise the risk of a new conflict with Israel.

The situation contains the risk that Hamas, feeling pinched and squeezed, and perhaps pushed into Irans arms, might become more militant, said Daniel Shapiro, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, in a conference call with reporters. There are lots of pressures and vectors on Hamas, some pushing them toward conflict, others that could prevent it.

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Special correspondent Mitnick reported from Tel Aviv and Abualouf from Gaza City.

@joshmitnick
Over the next two weeks, the Spanish capital faces one of its biggest security challenges in recent years. Between June 23 and July 2, Madrid will host World Pride, the planets biggest LGBTQ event of the year, which is expected to attract up to two million people . In response, police and emergency services will be boosted, with more than 1,000 officers drafted in for the July 1 parade through the center of the city.

Last year's Madrid pride event. jaime villanueva

Spain is currently on a high-risk, level-four security alert. The highest level, five, would only be activated in the event of a terrorist attack. There will be a heavy police presence on the streets of the capital over the coming days, with armed officers stationed at railway and bus stations, along with the airport. Heavy vehicles will be prevented from circulating in the center of the city at certain times.

Counter-terrorist sources say that this is a critical moment for the Spanish capital

The regional and central government have held regular meetings over recent months with emergency services to discuss strategies to protect the public during World Pride. Security will be tight at Madrids Barajas airport.

This is a critical moment, say counter-terrorist sources. Security services are also checking the movements of people who have been identified as having links to jihadist groups, and will be on the lookout for travelers identified as a possible threat by US and EU police.

One measure that is being considered is having police accompany the floats taking part in the parade on July 1. The 600 officers who form Madrids UIP riot police will be supported by units from other parts of Spain. Mounted police and officers with dogs will also be patrolling the capital during World Pride. The GEO special operations unit will also be monitoring security from the air using helicopters.

Heavy vehicles will be prevented from circulating in the center of the city at certain times

This week will see the final security details agreed, with officers assigned to the highest-risk events, such as the July 1 parade, which will run from the citys central Atocha railway station to Colon Square, and which is expected to attract more than a million people.

All leave has been suspended for Madrids municipal police during the week of World Pride, with officers expected to have to work double shifts of up to 16 hours.

English version by Nick Lyne.
The U.S. militarys role in Syria has steadily escalated since President Trump took office, but even as fighting intensifies, the administration has said little to the public about its goals, nor has it released a long-stalled update on its strategy for the war-torn country.

The latest escalation came over the weekend as U.S. forces shot down a Syrian attack plane near Islamic States self-declared capital of Raqqah, where multiple warring groups have been engaged in increasingly intense fighting.

The Pentagon has now twice deliberately targeted Syrian President Bashar Assads military and launched three other airstrikes against what it calls pro-regime forces -- a sharp reversal of the hands-off stance toward Assad that the U.S. took during the opening weeks of Trumps presidency.

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Despite that shift, however, administration officials have not made clear the full objectives of U.S. policy or its limits.

Right now what we have is a policy of ambiguity, said Ilan Goldenberg, director of the Middle East security program at the Center for a New American Security. And what do adversaries do when theres ambiguity? They test.

Syria and its allies will continue to grab territory until they are told there are consequences, he said.

Administration statements since the downing of the Syrian jet have done little to clarify the policy.

The escalation of hostility among all the factions that are operating there doesnt help anybody, White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Monday. The Syrian regime and others need to understand that we will retain the right to self-defense for coalition forces aligned against ISIS, he added, using the administrations preferred acronym for the Islamic State militants who still control a large swath of territory in eastern Syria.

The mounting violence around Raqqah and Syrias eastern border region illustrates the difficulty facing the administration as it seeks to simultaneously accomplish several sometimes conflicting tasks: fight Islamic State, coordinate and defend Syrian rebel groups that are trying to overthrow the government, and counter the influence of Iran, which, along with Russia, has backed the Assad government.

The problem is not unique  the Obama administration was widely criticized for lacking a coherent Syria strategy  but Trumps difficulty in developing one comes as the U.S. military presence in the country has steadily escalated.

The Pentagon has deployed hundreds of U.S. special operations forces to work alongside Syrian rebels fighting Islamic State. Elsewhere in the country, U.S. warplanes and a Marine Corps artillery unit provide firepower on a daily basis for the advancing forces.

The risk of further escalation is steadily mounting. Armed forces belonging to the U.S., Russia, Syria and Iran are operating in an increasingly compressed environment as they converge on Syrian cities now controlled by a common enemy: Islamic State.

Once that territory is retaken -- and Islamic State militants are gone -- the White House will have to decide whether it will continue to deepen its involvement and protect its partners against Assads forces and their backers.

The U.S. has been on a potential collision course with the Syrian government at least since President Obama authorized air strikes in 2014 and introduced special operations forces a year later.

Until recently, however, Syrian forces and the U.S. and the rebel groups it backs had largely focused on different parts of the country. That changed when two different groups of U.S.-supported rebels launched separate campaigns for control of Raqqah and Dair Alzour, provinces of eastern Syria in which Islamic State holds significant territory.

Their advance prompted Damascus and its allies to step up their own operations in the two provinces.

Those moves have led to clashes between armed groups backed by the U.S. and those backed by the Syrian government.

On Sunday, Assads forces attacked a U.S.-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab militia fighters known as the Syrian Democratic Forces in the town of Jadin, south of Raqqah, Islamic States self-declared capital. The Syrian Democratic Forces have been part of a large-scale offensive aimed at capturing Raqqah.

The attack drove the militia fighters from the town, so the U.S. scrambled an aircraft to roar over the battlefield in a show of force that halted the pro-government forces advance.

In the air, however, a Syrian Su-22 attack aircraft bombed the American allies. That prompted a U.S. F/A-18 fighter jet to shoot it down  the first air-to-air kill by U.S. forces in two decades.

After the shoot-down, the Pentagon issued a statement stressing that it took a defensive action and did not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them.

That was the same reason given for launching three airstrikes against forces loyal to Assad in the town of Tanf, farther south along the Iraqi-Syrian border, where U.S. forces train Syrian rebels at a small military base. Earlier this month, a U.S. fighter jet shot down an Iranian-made drone that dropped a bomb near forces patrolling the base.

U.S. officials have been stressing they have no plans to escalate fighting against Assad.

Meantime, Assads forces have repeatedly tested the U.S. to see how much they can get away with. Their goal appears to be to prompt the U.S. to state on record that it has no business inside Syria after Islamic State militants are defeated, said Jennifer Cafarella, a Syria analyst at the nonpartisan Institute for the Study of War in Washington.

The goal is to get the U.S. to repeatedly confirm that it has no military intentions inside Syria, aside from eliminating the Islamic State, she said. That cedes the rest of Syria to the regime and its partners to do what they want.

Unlike the Obama administration, Trump has not called for Assad to leave power to a transition government. Nor has the new administration made a major diplomatic effort to persuade the warring factions into a cease-fire and peace negotiations.

Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was repeatedly asked during an appearance Monday at the National Press Club in Washington what the administrations strategic policies were inside several countries in the Middle East and Africa where the U.S. military is active.

Were trying to support our partners on the ground in driving the level of violence down to where local security forces can actually deal with security challenges with a minimum amount of international support, he said. And were trying to do that from West Africa to Southeast Asia because what were dealing with is a transregional threat.

william.hennigan@latimes.com

Twitter: @wjhenn

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A U.S. warplane shot down a Syrian jet on Sunday near the Islamic State-held city of Raqqah, officials said, marking the latest escalation between the U.S. and Syria since the blood-soaked civil war began six years ago.

The Pentagon said the U.S.-led coalition took the unprecedented move after a Syrian Su-22 attack aircraft bombed its allies who were fighting Islamic State militants south of the city of Tabqah, roughly 25 miles west of Raqqah.

A U.S.-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab militia fighters known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, is involved in a large-scale offensive on Raqqah, Islamic States self-declared capital in Syria. Last month, the militia fighters clawed back Tabqah from Islamic State, but the Islamic State still holds sway in large swaths of the desert areas to the south.

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About 4:30 p.m., Syrian forces loyal to President Bashar Assad attacked U.S. ground partners in the recently recaptured town of Jadin, south of Tabqah, according to a U.S. military timeline. The assault drove the militia fighters from the town. But the U.S. scrambled aircraft to roar over the battlefield in a show of force that halted the pro-government forces advance.

Because the United States does not communicate with the Syrian military, U.S. commanders called their Russian counterparts on a special hotline set up to ensure that their pilots do not mistakenly run into  or fire upon  each other as they conduct daily bombing runs over Syria.

At 6:43 p.m., the Syrian plane dropped bombs near U.S.-allied fighters south of Tabqah, the U.S. military said.

A U.S. fighter pilot, who launched from an aircraft carrier stationed in the Mediterranean Sea, identified the Syrian aircraft and shot it down.

The coalitions mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria, the U.S. military statement said, using a common acronym for Islamic State. The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat.

A Syrian military statement said its plane had been conducting a combat mission against Islamic State over the village of Resafa, which lies more than five miles southeast of Jadin, and said the U.S. attack resulted in the loss of the pilot.

This blatant attack confirms the coordination between the United States and Daesh, the Syrian statement said, employing the Arabic acronym for Islamic State. Such aggressions will not bend the Syrian army from its determination to continue the war against Daesh  and restore security and stability.

The shoot down is part of a steady escalation of the U.S. militarys role in Syria. Hundreds of U.S. special operations forces are working alongside Syrian rebels fighting the Islamic State, while U.S. warplanes and a Marine Corps artillery unit provide firepower for the advancing forces on a daily basis.

Farther south, near a small military base in the southern Syrian town of Tanf, the U.S. military has conducted three airstrikes in less than a month against what it says are forces directed by the Iranian government and loyal to Assad.

The forces, armed with tanks and small arms, have amassed a few dozen miles outside the base that U.S., British and Norwegian special operations forces use as a staging ground to train, equip and fight alongside their rebel partners.

On June 8, a U.S. F-15 fighter jet shot down an Iranian-made drone after it fired on partnered ground forces in southern Syria. But Sunday was the first time an American jet destroyed an enemy aircraft in air-to-air combat since February 2009.

Also Sunday, Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired missiles at Islamic State targets in Syria in retaliation for attacks on the countrys parliament and the tomb of its revolutionary founder that killed 17 people on June 7.

Iran has been providing support to Assad against anti-government rebel groups and Islamic State. But this was the first reported ground-to-ground strike from Iran into Syria since the conflict began in 2011.

In this operation, several ground-to-ground mid-range missiles were fired from IRGC bases in Kermanshah province and targeted takfiri forces in the Dair Alzour region in eastern Syria, the IRGC said in a statement posted on its news website. (The corps uses the term takfiri, or apostate, to describe Islamic State militants as well as a number of other Sunni Muslim extremist groups).

The message is clear, the statement said, warning that if the militants attack again, the fire of revenge of the IRGC will send the culprits to hell.

william.hennigan@latimes.com

Special correspondent Bulos reported from Irbil and Times staff writer Hennigan from Washington. Special correspondent Ramin Mostaghim in Tehran and staff writer Molly Hennessy-Fiske in Doha, Qatar, contributed to this report.

Twitter: @nabihbulos

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The acquittal of the Minnesota police officer who shot and killed Philando Castile in a July 2016 traffic stop outside of St. Paul provoked anger and frustration throughout the country.

From St. Paul to Chicago, activists had taken to the streets to express outrage over the jury's decision to vindicate Officer Jeronimo Yanez. St. Paul police reported last Friday that an estimated 1,500 marchers disrupted traffic during a gathering outside the Minnesota State Capitol building.

Facing a ten-year prison term, Officer Yanez was found not guilty of all charges, including second-degree manslaughter and two counts of improper discharge of a weapon.

His defense team built a case around the notion that Officer Yanez was afraid Mr. Castile, a licensed gun-owner, was grabbing for his firearm, which the information of its presence, the prosecution argued, had been previously conveyed to the officer.

Testifying that Mr. Castile disregarded his order to not pull the gun out, Officer Yanez fired seven shots into the vehicle, five of which hit Castile. The shooting prompted Mr. Castile to murmur, "I wasn't reaching for it," and expire shortly after.

The jury's not-guilty verdict spawned strong reactions from Castile's mother, Valerie Castile, and girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, who was present with their young daughter at the time of the shooting.

NEW: Philando Castile's mother reacts to not guilty verdict against police officer in the death of her son: "I'm mad as hell right now." pic.twitter.com/rWsq3XnhHt  ABC News (@ABC) June 16, 2017

Live-streaming the incident seconds after Castile was shot, Ms. Reynolds' video spawned serious debates over excessive tactics inherent in police culture and the presumptions of guilt society attaches to young men of color. Although the verdict was welcomed by supporters of the Blue Lives Matter movement, city officials from St. Anthony, where Officer Yanez was employed as a policeman, offered Yanez a "voluntary separation agreement."

Officer Yanez: The shooting was ruled justified, when do I come back to work? City: Get lost. #PhilandoCastile https://t.co/NUqGo1pJZS  Blue Lives Matter (@bluelivesmtr) June 16, 2017
The Mexican government has been accused of abusing telecommunications software by spying on human rights and anti-corruption activists within its borders.

According to the New York Times, numerous federal agencies in Mexico have purchased Israeli-made phone spying technology on the condition that it be used to track violent non-state actors like terrorists or drug cartels. Instead, the Mexican government used the software to spy on its critics and journalists attempting to uncover corruption plaguing every level of their society.

The Israeli software, known as Pegasus, breaks into smartphones to monitor every detail of a persons digital happenings: calls, texts, photos, emails, contacts and calendars. It can even use the microphone and camera on the phones for surveillance, turning anyone's smartphone into a personal GPS-mounted listening device.

Investigations by private forensic specialists and the Times concurred that these individuals had their devices hacked by outside influences. There is no definitive proof connecting the Mexican government to the Pegasus program, and it is to be expected that they will categorically deny these allegations, but Pegasus is only sold to govermental intelligence agencies around the world by Israel cyberarms firm NSO Group.

Messages sent to journalists and human rights lawyers meant to gain access to phones were misleading and personal. One targeted Carmen Aristegui, one of Mexico's most notable journalists, and her teenage son posing as a member of the United States Embassy in Mexico. Another victim was the wife of anti-corruption activist who was lead to believe her husband was unfaithful and the hidden Pegasus link contained the proof.

Journalists and other agents working for accountability in the extremely complicated nest of interests in the Mexican Drug War are frequent targets for extortion, kidnapping, and murder. More journalists were killed in Mexico last year than any other year this century and the intimidation does not appear to be slowing down at all.

This is an unprecedented governmental breach of civil rights in Mexico. Normally, as in most functioning democracies, a sitting judge must approve the warrant for any kind of wire-tapping or surveillance on someone suspected of aiding or committing a crime. It appears those constraints are being bypassed. What happens when those attempting to unveil the crimes and corruption are targeted?
A Spanish bullfighter named Ivan Fandino died this weekend after being gored by a bull in southwestern France. The Basque-born torero slipped and fell to the ground during a bullfight held on Saturday in Aire-Sur-LAdour, around 150 kilometers northeast of Bayonne. He was attacked by the animal, sustaining critical internal injuries that doctors described as irreversible.

A spokesman for Layne hospital in Mont-de-Marsan, to where Fandino, 36, was rushed in an ambulance, said it was impossible to save his life due to the injuries to his liver, kidneys and lungs.

The poster advertising the corrida in which Fandino died.

Hurry up and get me to the hospital, Im dying, the bullfighter reportedly said inside the ambulance shortly before passing away, according to the local daily Sud-Ouest.

While no official medical report has yet been released, Dr Poirier, a physician, who assisted Fandino and traveled with him inside the ambulance, said that there was nothing that could have been done to save his life.

In statements to Sud-Ouest, he said that the torero was pronounced dead after he went into cardiac arrest a second time and medical staff were unable to resuscitate him.

The doctor said that Fandino had three-and-a-half liters of black blood inside his abdominal cavity, a sign that his liver had burst. The bulls horn had also sliced through a vena cava, a large vein that takes blood to the heart.

The injured bullfighter is taken by colleagues into the infirmary. I. GAIZKA (AFP)

By the time he was inside the infirmary he practically had no pulse. It was impossible to get a blood-pressure reading. Death was instantaneous. It was impossible to do anything for him, stated Poirier.

Almost exactly a year ago, another Spanish bullfighter, Victor Barrio, died inside the bullring in the city of Teruel. His death triggered a cascade of hate messages on social media, and a bullfighting association announced legal action against the individuals who mocked Barrios death.

Bullfighting in France Ruben Amon Bullfighting has a long tradition in southern France, where there are currently 49 breeding estates, 51 rings, seven major bullfighting festivals and 10 full-fledged toreros who share top billing with colleagues from other parts of the world. In 2011, France became the first country to declare bullfighting an Intangible Cultural Heritage, consolidating the protection of a practice that has been kept up throughout the years. In 1951, a law was passed banning animal abuse  including cockfights and bullfights  except in places where there was a continued tradition of it. Such is the case for the southern cities of Arles, Nimes, Bayonne and Beziers, for instance.

English version by Susana Urra.
In this years biopic of Stefan Zweig  the Austrian writer who found refuge in the United States  the author spends a lot of time anguishing about the fate of Jewish friends and colleagues trying to flee Nazi-controlled Europe . There are no visas for the Jews anymore, says Zweig at one point.

The St. Louis, with more than 700 Jews aboard, was denied entry in US and returned to Europe in 1939. KEYSTONE (GETTY)

The Allies decision to close their borders to Jews during World War II is still a sensitive subject, and new files held by the United Nations that have just been released by the London-based Wiener Library for the Study of the Holocaust and Genocide show that the United States, Russia, and Great Britain knew as early as December 1942 about Germanys operations to liquidate European Jewry in the wake of the invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941.

Arguments ISIS activists could infiltrate refugees fleeing war in Syria have been heard in recent years

Historian Paul R. Bartrop, director of the Center for Judaic, Holocaust and Genocide Studies at the University of Florida Gulf Coast, is working on a major study of the Allies response to the Final Solution, as the Nazi plan to murder all Jewish people is known. The project focuses on the Evian Conference in 1938, where delegates from 32 countries discussed the Jewish refugee problem and the plight of the increasing numbers of Jewish refugees fleeing persecution by Nazi Germany  a situation that has many parallels to the response to the war in Syria.

Governments around the world faced a very similar crisis to the one that we are living through today, says Bartrop, going on to cite questions posed at the time: Should [those governments] open their doors to anybody with refugee status? Should they impose quotas, and if so, how to decide on how many to let in? Should refugees be let in regardless of the economic situation of the countries receiving them? Should they accept refugees with ethnic backgrounds and religions different from the majority of people in the country of destination? Then, as now, these were the questions being asked, and an urgent reply was required.

Bartrops will be the first major study of the Evian Conference, which was called at the behest of the United States in the French spa town in July 1938. The Axis nations of Germany, Italy and Japan refused to attend, as did the Soviet Union. Even Poland and Romania only sent observers. Germanys race laws were already prompting large numbers of Germanys 600,000-strong Jewish community to leave.

The Evian Conference failed to address the growing refugee problem in 1938. HEINRICH HOFFMANN (GETTY)

The conference was a failure. Chaim Weizmann, who would become the first president of Israel, summed up the conference: The world seems to be divided into two parts  those places where the Jews cannot live and those where they cannot enter.

The St. Louis, a ship that left Hamburg for Cuba in May 1938 with 937 people aboard, most of them Jews, became a powerful symbol: it was refused permission to dock in Cuba, the United States and Canada and eventually returned to Europe. Most aboard went to countries later invaded by Germany, and some 278 were sent to death camps.

When war broke out in September 1939, it became even harder for refugees to find a haven. With Europe at war, many countries felt they should close their borders to prevent fifth columnists infiltrating refugee groups, says Bartop. Arguments that ISIS activists could infiltrate groups of refugees fleeing war in Syria have been heard in recent years.

The Allies efforts were focused on defeating the enemy, there was no room for anything else

Dan Plesch, director of the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy at the University of London

The UNs War Crimes Commission also shows that even when the Allies knew about the scale at which Jews were being killed by Germany in Eastern Europe, no help was forthcoming. These documents show for the first time that all the resistance movements in occupied Europe knew what was happening, when the Nazis were still running the extermination camps, says historian Dan Plesch, director of the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy at the University of London, and who has studied recently released documents and that he has written about in Human Rights After Hitler: The Lost History of Prosecuting Axis War Crimes.

French says that by 1942, following the Wansee Conference in January of that year in Berlin at which senior German officials outlined the practical details of the Final Solution, the Allies, who now included the Soviet Union, knew about the killing. At the latest, the fate of the Jews was known by the entire world by December 17, 1942, when the Allies made a joint statement, says Ben Barkow, director of the Wiener Library. That statement reaffirmed a resolution to guarantee that those responsible for those crimes would be judged and that is why the UNs War Crimes Commission was set up.

These documents show for the first time that resistance movements in occupied Europe knew what was happening

Plesch says that part of the reason the Allies did nothing to help the millions of Jews facing extermination in Europe was antisemitism, and that the media tended to play down atrocity stories emerging from occupied Europe because they had been heard during World War I. At the same time, the Allies efforts were focused on defeating the enemy, he says. There was no room for anything else.

English version by Nick Lyne.
Jun 19, 2017, 8:45am ET

Musk talks tunnels with LA mayor; 'permits harder than tech'

The executive suggests the \'promising\' talks involved a tunnel network that could benefit bikes, cars and pedestrians.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's Boring Company tunneling startup appears to have caught the attention of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

A Santa Monica city manager earlier this month dismissed Musk's subterranean ambition as a "completely absurd pipe dream" that would be laughed out of the permitting office.

A vocal critic of California's notorious red tape, Musk apparently launched a lobbying campaign to support his idea that tunnels could help mitigate "soul-destroying" traffic.

"Promising conversations with @MayorOfLA regarding tunnel network that would carry cars, bikes and pedestrians," Musk wrote on Twitter, noting that permits are going to be "harder" than the technology.

The reference to bikes and pedestrians meshes with Boring Co's vision for small diameter tunnels paired with autonomous electric skates. The platforms can be used to ferry cars or enclosed passenger pods at 125 mph. Such an infrastructure system is promoted as a stone's throw from a Hyperloop, launching passengers through tunnels at more than 600 mph in a vacuum.

The startup has already started digging in Los Angeles County, however the prospective tunnel network has not yet breached the perimeter of SpaceX's parking lot.
A 44-year-old man is accused of raping a 13-year-old boy in Allentown.

Allentown police said they were called Saturday night at a home on Green Street in the city.

The accuser reported Wayne Holmes raped him, and that he told Holmes to stop but he didn't, according to police.

On Saturday, Holmes called the Allentown Communications Center because he learned police were looking for him and he was in the 100 block of North Sixth Street, police said.

In an interview with investigators, Holmes admitted raping the boy and forcing the boy to perform a sex act, police said.

Holmes, of Patterson, New Jersey, is charged with rape, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault, sexual assault and indecent assault.

He was sent to Lehigh County Jail in lieu of $150,000 bail.

CORRECTION: Holmes told police he was in the 100 block of North Sixth Street, not at a home on the block.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
A Bethlehem pair are jailed after police raided their car and city apartment, allegedly seizing drugs with a street value exceeding $8,500.

Collin Patrick Freitas and Maria Lisa Regini

Charged are Collin Patrick Freitas, 50, and Maria Lisa Regini, 49, both of the 600 block of Ridge Street.

Bethlehem Police Department's Special Operation/Vice Unit at 2:30 p.m. Friday conducted surveillance of a gold Honda Accord headed east on West North Street from Guetter Street. A check revealed the Honda was stolen, police said.

Freitas, the driver, parked the Honda in the 500 block of North New Street and police arrested him and his passenger, Regini.

Officers searched Freitas, seizing fentanyl and cash, police said. Also recovered was methamphetamine and marijuana from inside the Honda, as well as a notebook computer reported stolen from the trunk, according to police.

Court records indicate the computer, valued at $400, was reported stolen in a May 13 burglary in Bethlehem.

Investigators obtained a search warrant of the pair's apartment and seized $1,119; 32.2 grams of fentanyl, 6.9 grams of methamphetamine, 1.8 grams of cocaine, 9 methadone pills, 11.9 grams of marijuana, three packets containing fentanyl, 1,000 unused glassine packets, a digital scale and related paraphernalia, according to police.

Police said the approximate street value of the drugs was more than $8,500. If packaged as an individual dose, the fentanyl alone would yield about 1,500 packets, court records indicate.

During her arrest, Regini allegedly gave police a bogus last name.

Freitas and Regini are charged each with possession with intent to deliver drugs (four counts), possession of a controlled substance (four counts) and receiving stolen property.

Freitas also is charged with driving with a suspended license and Regini also is charged with providing false identification to law enforcement.

More charges are pending as police continue an investigation into the stolen Honda and other drug-related violations, authorities said.

Both were arraigned before District Judge Douglas Schlegel, who set bail at 10 percent of $20,000 each. In lieu of bail, both Freitas and Regini were taken to Northampton County Prison.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Before he was arraigned June 6 on drug charges, Muhammad Al-Shabazz had a request for Easton police detectives, court papers say.

In case he ended up in Northampton County Prison -- which he eventually did, in lieu of $100,000 bail -- Al-Shabazz asked if they could get him some numbers from his black iPhone which they took in that morning's drug raid, police said.

He gave the detectives the pass code so they could retrieve the digits, police said.

On June 14, a search warrant was obtained for the phone and police found a photo sent to his girlfriend of Al-Shabazz holding an Intratec Tec 9 firearm, with the caption reading, "Playing with my new toy," police said.

Al-Shabazz, 26, of the 1400 block of Elm Street in the city, was identified in the May 29 photo by "distinct" tattoos on his hands and fingers, police said.

A detective could read the serial number on the gun and after a search, they learned the weapon was stolen in 1996 with other guns from the El Centro Police Department in California, police said. That department confirmed the theft, police said.

Since he's previously pleaded guilty to a felony charge, he can't possess a firearm, police said.

So on Thursday police added to his possession with intent to deliver marijuana, tampering with evidence and possession of drug paraphernalia counts with charges of receiving stolen property and possession of a firearm by a person prohibited from doing so, police said.

Al-Shabazz was arraigned before District Judge Antonia Grifo and returned to prison in lieu of an addition $100,000 bail, records show. His preliminary hearing on the latest charges is tentatively scheduled 9 a.m. July 5 in District Judge Richard Yetter's court in Wilson Borough.

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Twenty-four years later, Stephen Ellis still vividly remembers the struggles of alcoholism. He remembers the way it sucked him in and served as his escape. And he remembers the way it turned on him. At his lowest point, he was 260 pounds and unrecognizable. His addiction was ripping his family apart.

Now, over 20 years later, he sees citizens of Phillipsburg - the town he has lived in all his life and now serves as mayor of - battling the same demons. The proof is in the seven deaths caused by opioids since January 1.

In sharing his story and allowing people to see the drastic turn that his life has taken, he hopes to be part of the solution.

"What was once something I was scared to talk about is now a strength (of mine) as mayor of a town facing the same battle," Ellis said. "We cannot arrest our way out of this problem."

Instead, support must be offered. This message echoed throughout the ribbon cutting ceremony of Freedom House Monday afternoon at 427-429 S. Main St. in Phillipsburg.

The new drug abuse and mental health outpatient facility, which received funding from Warren County, will offer intensive and standard outpatient services.

Although it specializes in substance abuse, it is expanding to provide mental health services, education services for the community and vocational rehabilitation services.

This is the second outpatient facility that Freedom House has opened in New Jersey. The first, located in Clinton, opened in October 2014.

"I struggle to find words to thank Freedom House for coming to Phillipsburg," Ellis said, emphasizing the tremendous need in the area and pointing out that there are no other facilities in the town that provide these services.

"Freedom House gives us hope that addicts will recover, reunite with families and build and maintain strong communities," he said.

The community also plays a large role in combatting this epidemic. Executive Director Glenn King spoke of the stigma attached to addiction and the ways in which it halts progress. If people are afraid to come forward and get help, the issue will never be solved, he said.

King, who is also a recovering addict and graduate of the Freedom House program, emphasized that addiction has many faces. No one is immune to its relentless grip or the suffering and turmoil it causes. But no one should have to go through it alone.

"We need to look at addiction as a disease," King said, noting that the American Medical Association recognizes it as such. "The label we put on a person ... is how we treat them."

To eliminate the stigma is to eliminate the fear that people have to seek help, and more progress can be made, he said.

The facility is working to diversify its funding, explained Compliance Coordinator Kristina Raymond, in hopes no one is turned away. Medicaid and private insurances will be accepted. Although officially serving Warren County, Freedom House anticipates and is receptive to aiding addicts from other areas of both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Freedom House is one of many facilities opening across New Jersey as part of Gov. Chris Christie's vow to combat addiction in his last year in office.

As part of this initiative, Christie announced in February the addition of 900 treatment beds for people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol and suffer from mental illnesses. This was a move to expand inpatient services across the state.

Christie planned on attending Monday's ceremony, but did not make it. His office could not be immediately reached for comment.

"We anticipated the enormous impact opioid addiction would have," said Freedom House Board Member Brian Regan. "Everyone is touched by addiction ... it's not hidden in corners or closets anymore."

Alyssa Mursch may be reached at amursch@lehighvalleylive.com. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
The Kensington disaster, along with the referendum that voted for Brexit, demonstrates the pressing need to tackle inequality. Corbyns success was due to him offering hope.

It is time for Lib Dems to step up and offer radical solutions, as we have seen in France. Every candidate for the leadership must be asked what he or she will do to tackle this issue. Here are some ideas, though not exhaustive.

Government priorities

With a lame duck PM and a government in chaos we cannot expect to see too many balls in the air. We are not in a fit condition to manage Brexit, but we could get a consensus to tackle inequality.

We should apply to the EU to put Brexit on hold, if that means a withdrawal of article 50 so be it. We are not ignoring the referendum result; we are putting it on hold until we are in a fit state to deal with it.

We can then tackle the causes of inequality.

Universal provision of high-quality childcare, affordable for all

We need to publicly fund childcare to ensure it does not cost more than 10% to 15% of wages. We also need better training and working conditions for childcare workers.

Reduce the gap between top-to-bottom earnings and ensure there is a link between economic prosperity and wages

We need to ensure that workers have a voice in workplace decisions including a seat on the board. Organisations must publish their pay ratios, zero hours workers must have full employment rights, and zero hour working should not be used to replace full time working. Minimum wage should apply to all workers.

Recent decreases in Corporation Tax should be reversed, but companies who reinvest more than X% (to be agreed) of profit into the business should receive tax relief

A fairer and more progressive tax system

We need to strengthen the resources to prevent tax evasion and avoidance, ensure that profit made in the UK is taxed in the UK and not shipped abroad, introduce progressive taxation that balances tax on income and wealth, and introduce Land Value Taxation.

Recent changes in benefits to be reviewed, particularly in the treatment of disabled, and the Bedroom Tax should only be applied after an offer of alternative accommodation

Housing

There is an urgent need to provide more, and safe, social housing.

Properties left vacant, should be subject to additional taxation.

Creation of good jobs to benefit all

We need a national economic strategy, a national investment bank with regional targets, ensure the Green Investment Bank is under state control and invest in green technology.

Opportunities for youth

Every young person should have access to appropriate high quality training and education. Funding of universities to be reviewed as the student loans are becoming unfair and unsustainable. We must ensure that universities are providing value for money. Housing Benefit for under 25s to be restored.

The Cost

Changes to the taxation system should produce some of the income. Increasing the value of work will increase the income tax revenue. Any investment that will bring financial returns can be funded from borrowing. If any further increases are required we need to look at wealth tax.

* David Becket is a former Lib Dem County Councillor, Unitary Councillor and District Councillor; he has held positions of responsibility at all levels.
Nationally it might be argued that the General Election was a moderate success for the Liberal Democrats and, maybe, even baby steps towards a revival. A net increase of 4 seats on 2015 with a marginal decrease in the national share, which could arguably be put down to significant tactical voting, could provide some evidence of this. However I would argue this masks disastrous performances regionally which should be of massive concern to the national party going forward.

Id like to focus on my own region, Yorkshire. Yorkshire contains 51 seats. Going into the 2017 election you would have thought that the Lib Dems couldnt do worse than their performance in 2015 where we had been reduced to just 2 Yorkshire MPs (Nick Clegg in Sheffield Hallam and Greg Mulholland in Leeds North West) and a massively reduced share of the regional vote. In 2010, the Lib Dems won 3 seats in Yorkshire with near misses in Sheffield Central (less than 200 votes away) and Hull North (less than 650 votes away). They polled 23% of the vote in Yorkshire and retained every deposit easily.

Fast forward to what many consider the nadir of Liberal Democratic performance in 2015. It still resulted in 2 MPs and saved deposits in almost half of the seats in Yorkshire and a 7.3% share of the vote. Surely this was as bad as it could get for the Liberal Democrats in Yorkshire? Unfortunately not. On 8th June the Lib Dems lost both seats they held as well as 41 of their 51 deposits. They polled in excess of 10% of the vote in only 4 of the 51 seats in Yorkshire.

In Sheffield Central, a seat Paul Scriven came within a hairs breadth of winning in 2010, the Lib Dems only just retained their deposit, polling slightly more than 5%. In Bradford East, a seat the Lib Dems won in 2010, they lost their deposit with 2% of the vote (admittedly the ex-Lib Dem MP stood as an independent  and beat the Lib Dem candidate). In my own constituency of Penistone and Stocksbridge they dropped from 21% in 2010 to 4% in 2017.

In Yorkshire, Liberal Democrats could well be bracketed with the Monster Raving Loony party in the others category of electoral statistics, so far have we plummeted. 81 out of every 100 people who voted Lib Dem in 2010 deserted the party in 2017 and weve lost two amazing MPs. There will be many and varied reasons for this but personally, the image of the Liberal Democrats as a single issue party  the party of Remain in a mainly Leave part of the country  explains much of the decline. The Lib Dems had a great manifesto but hardly anyone knew about our policies apart from the Liberal Democrats being the Remoaners party.

We have the most polarised political spectrum Ive experienced in my lifetime with a gaping centre ground going begging and until the Liberal Democrats change the record they wont gain any traction outside the leafier suburbs of our metropolises. The leadership election should be about how the Liberal Democrats can appeal again to the people of Penistone, Stocksbridge, Sheffield Central, Hull North and Bradford East. I certainly will vote for the candidate who can offer a direction that can win seats in Yorkshire again.

* Wayne Chadburn is a member of the Liberal Demcorats in Penistone
UP to seven large-scale, community-based projects in West Limerick could miss out because of red tape and an inflexible deadline, local councillors have warned.

And attempts to extend the deadline to give them a chance have failed.

The projects involved are all seeking funding under the LEADER programme and the deadline for expressions of interest was originally fixed at July 31.

But Cllrs Eddie Ryan FF and John Sheahan FG say that many groups could now miss that deadline as they struggle with planning permission, with procurement procedures and with charitable status.

An attempt, led by Cllr Ryan, to have the July deadline extended failed at a meeting of the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), with only two votes in favour, seven against and two abstentions.

We are dealing with seven projects in West Limerick that needed more time and I personally know of at least three in East Limerick, said Cllr Ryan, who is chairman of the LCDC which set the original deadline and who lobbied to have it extended.

Extending the deadline by six weeks was reasonable, Cllr Ryan said this week, particularly in light of the fact that the whole programme was running behind by over two years. Getting expressions of interest ready, he added, was very, very difficult and complex.

Procurement, i.e. getting three quotes in on time, is particularly difficult where projects are still waiting for planning permission. And this new tranche of LEADER funding, according to those in the know, comes with a host of new and bureacratic regulations.

Now, both Cllr Sheahan and Cllrs Ryan are concerned that without the chance of LEADER funding, the much-needed projects will fall by the wayside entirely.

As things stand, the expressions of interest deadline is only the first hurdle projects have to overcome. Each project must be evaluated separately by an independent committee and only those that receive an overall rating of 65% plus go forward for a funding decision.

We should be prioritising on a projects importance to the community rather than making deadlines, Cllr Sheahan said.

And he was concerned that red tape was jeopardising the ability of LEADER companies such as West Limerick Resources and Ballyhoura to be act as development companies.

He intends to raise the matter of the deadline at the next meeting of Limerick City and County Council.

A spokesman for the council said the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)  is playing a key role in the development of a six-year Local Economic and Community Plan for the city and county.

Calls for funding were made in January with a deadline of July.

In order for Limerick to secure the maximum funding of programmes possible, outline plans must be submitted by this date, he added.
Expert: It is wrong to call Azerbaijanis sheep (video)

Azerbaijan escalates the situation along the border with Artsakh every time it needs to divert public attention from something. The country [Azerbaijan] has serious economic problems: oil prices have gone down, one of the largest banks has gone bankrupt, therefore they are escalating the situation, says Taron Hovhannisyan, an expert on Azerbaijani studies and expert for razm.info website. He says tensions are always expected, and Armenia should always be ready for resumption of hostilities. The expert says it is wrong that people in Armenia call Azerbaijanis sheep and announce that they can reach Baku at any moment. Likewise, Azerbaijanis believe that they can win the war. The situation on the border with Azerbaijan is controlled by Armenia, and the equilibrium is maintained, the expert said. Garik Harutyunyan says the Armenian side always responds to Azerbaijans military operations. The experts have observed a tendency to underestimate and overestimate Azerbaijan. They are not sheep, they are arming themselves with knowledge and weapons. We need to do the same. This is the only way, Mr Hovhannisyan said. Military actions always start suddenly and it is difficult to predict whether escalations will grow into full-scale war or not.
A section of the Ballysimon Road which had been closed to traffic following a road collision on the outskirts of the city this Monday morning has re-opened.

The accident involving two cars happened at around 6.15am near Mount St Lawrence Cemetery.

LIMERICK: The Ballysimon Rd has reopened at Mount St Lawrence Cemetery following collision https://t.co/0bSXZ1R48T  AA Roadwatch (@aaroadwatch) June 19, 2017

Three units of Limerick Fire and Rescue are attended the scene along with gardai from Roxboro Road and HSE paramedics.

While a number of people sustained injuries, nobody was seriously injured.

The road was closed for over an an hour-and-a-half reopened shortly before 8am.

Separately, gardai are currently dealing with a minor two vehicle collision on the Dock Road at Greenpark Roundabout.

According to gardai the road remains open but there are delays in the area.

Meanwhile, the road has reopened between Ballylanders and Knocklong following an early morning two-vehicle collision.

According to gardai a car and a van were involved in the crash but there were no injuries reported.

"There were delays in the area but the road has since re-opened," said a garda spokesperson.
MINISTER for Justice and Equality Charlie Flanagan has said an internal investigation is ongoing in relation to allegations of misconduct at Limerick Prison, following a whistleblower's claims of fraud, theft and tax evasion, details of which have been sent to his department.

Speaking at the University of Limerick, Minister Flanagan said he understands that there has been an internal investigation into this matter, but he hasn't had the opportunity to review the file in its entirety, following his appointment to the role last week under Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.

I'm anxious to ensure there will be due process if allegations have been made, and I trust that they will be dealt with under normal due process, he said.

Fine Gael Senator Kieran O'Donnell said the allegations are a source of concern, and urged that in relation to a 10,000 bail bond which went missing from the safe in Limerick Prison every avenue has to be explored to locate where the money went.

I would welcome the fact that this has gone before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), being a former member. It's a matter that has to be taken very seriously, said Senator O'Donnell.

Fianna Fail deputy Willie O'Dea said allegations are very, very serious indeed.

The Department of Justice will have to get to the bottom of this, because the last thing we want is to have the prison service undermined, which would be devastating, particularly in the context of inquiry into the gardai, and now the appointment of a judge, the prison service is the last straw, deputy O'Dea told the Limerick Leader.

This strikes right at the heart of the system, and there has to be an all-systems go inquiry, he added.

Chairman of the PAC, Fianna Fail deputy Sean Fleming said he is very concerned by the variety of allegations outlined in a five-page report, which was printed on Irish Prison Service paper.

A whistleblowers dossier containing allegations of theft, fraud and tax evasion at Limerick Prison was sent to the now former Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald, the Public Accounts Committee and others to highlight certain employees alleged to have defrauded the State.

A number of individuals amongst the prisons staff of 194 employees are also named in the document.

The Prison Service confirmed it has received allegations of improper conduct at Limerick Prison, which are under investigation.

Examples of alleged tax evasion and employees drinking in a public house during work hours have also been highlighted by an unnamed whistleblower.

The whistleblower alleges that some staff within Limerick Prison are committing theft, fraud and tax evasion on a daily basis, yet nothing is done to them.

Among the other allegations concern employees  described as untouchables within the system - who use prison vans for their own personal use outside of work hours, while using the prison fuel card.

The whistleblower claimed that some staff come and go as they please to matches in Thomond Park, or the Gaelic Grounds while they are still getting paid to be in work and nothing is being said to them.

We are sick and tired of what is happening in Limerick Prison and we beg you for help, he wrote.

Chairman of the PAC, Fianna Fail deputy Sean Fleming said they have received correspondence on the case, which they forwarded to the Prison Service.

Deputy Fleming said they are awaiting a response from the Prison Service and will determine their position then.

He said they are very concerned by the variety of allegations outlined in a five-page report, which was printed on Irish Prison Service paper.

Separately, a spokesperson for the Irish Prison Service said that an independent forensic review into the disappearance of a 10,000 bail bond from Limerick Prison in 2015 concluded that it was not possible to explain with certainty how the money was lost or misappropriated.
SHORTLY after the break of dawn on Friday morning, the first hymns of the annual Solemn Novena celebrations could be heard, echoing from the Redemptorist Church in the city.

The first round of prayer sessions started at 7am at Mount St Alphonsus, which garnered a packed house according to organisers.

And until June 24, it is expected that up to 100,000 people from across the Mid-West will travel to the South Circular Road church to pray to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

In 1977, the Limerick Leader described the celebration as one the largest religious events in Western Europe. And, according to Redemptorist rector Fr Seamus Enright, that billing remains  describing it as the Munster final of religion.

This years festivities covers a number of firsts, including their a multimedia marketing campaign; the extension of novena prayers to the 250 inmates of Limerick Prison; and themed focus on modern family life.

Fr Enright said that the emphasis on family will act as preparation for the triennial World Meeting of Families event in Dublin in 2018, which it is hoped Pope Francis will attend.

The definition of family isnt as simple as it was in the past. As well as married couples, there are couples who are living together, lone parents, couples who are divorced and remarried, same sex couples, single people living on their own, and so on. And this variety of family combinations brings a lot of challenges, Fr Enright said.

We met a number of loyal novena followers, who considered this years celebration a special one because of the theme Home is You and Me.

Gary and Teresa Lawlor, Rosbrien, said that they used to bring their children to the annual event every year. When asked what family meant to them, Mr Lawlor replied, with a smile: Family means everything to me. If you havent family, you have nothing.

Kathleen Barrett, of Janesboro, is a stalwart of the annual festivities, attending for more than 50 years. Though she said that she could not explain the allure of the novena, she that there is a nice feeling being here.

And asked what she was praying for this year, she said: I just pray that my family will be happy, and that we will be all well-cared for.

A number of highlights of the week have included the blessing of babies and children last Sunday afternoon, a celebration for First Communion classes this Monday morning and the coming special session for the sick and elderly on Saturday.

The 10.30pm session each evening will have a more reflective atmosphere through the use of Taize music and candlelight, and is especially popular with younger people.

According to Fr Enright, a key ingredient of the Novena is the opportunity to write out prayers of petition and of thanksgiving.

A Novena session is never just a collection of individuals at prayer, he says. It is a community at prayer, the church in prayer. In a real sense, it is we the people. Everyone is welcome and everyone is included.

The Novena will be live streamed on www.novena.ie. See also Facebook @Redemptoristslimerick or Twitter @RedsLimk.
THEY have played in some of the worlds biggest capitals in London and New York. They have brought their music to Canada, to France, to Scotland, to Saudi Arabia and to Australia.

Now, one of Limericks finest musical exports, Hermitage Green, have confirmed a live gig in Broadford on Friday, July 21.

It is a first for the West Limerick community, one of the organisers, Karen Sykes admitted when tickets went on sale at just 25.

It is all happening in a huge marquee, she added.

Organisers are hoping for a capacity audience of about 800 and a bar licence has been organised. The warm-up act on the night will be The Shambolics.

The Broadford gig is one of a list of gigs that Hermitage Green will play this summer, one which kicked off with a huge gig at King Johns Castle during RiverFest and will end in the Olympia Theatre in September.

The five-man band from Limerick play a very unique blend of acoustic folk-rock and came together as a band in 2010 as a result of a spontaneous jam session among friends. They quickly built up a large following through social media and a busy round of gigs and debut EP 'The Gathering' reached number 1 in the Irish iTunes charts in September 2012.

A world tour followed and in 2013, the band self-released a Live at Whelans album. In 2015, they signed to Sony Music Ireland and released two singles Jenny and Quicksand which were hugely successful. Their first studio album Save Your Soul was released last year.

Their instruments include the bodhran, djembe, rhythm guitar and banjo and their sets feature a blend of bluegrass and trad, with fast-paced African percussion and four-part vocal harmony.

The Hermitage Green gig is being organised as part of a weekend of events to raise money for the ongoing running of the Broadford Community Creche.

The creche, which employs up to 20 people on a full or part-time basis, caters for over 120 children in different programmes.

A monster soap box derby will take place the day after the gig on Saturday, July 22 and will also include a Family Fun Day.

The annual Broadford Horse and Pony Races will take place on Sunday, July 23, with the first race starting at 1.30pm.
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The Government has issued a health warning as the United Kingdom looks set to be hit by a killer heatwave.

An amber level three alert  just one level below a national emergency - was triggered at the weekend as Lincolnshire and the rest of the country continues to sizzle in the summer sunshine.

The warning will be in place until the middle of the week.

Hot air arriving from the north of France and Spain means temperatures are expected to eclipse 30C and there are genuine fears people could die as a result of the sweltering heat.

The alert has been put in place to at least Wednesday (June 21), warning community groups to "activate community emergency plans", and encourages hospitals to be on guard for a rise in admissions.

Health staff are also compelled to make daily contact with the ill, vulnerable and elderly.

Public Health Englands Heatwave Plan for England said: "Excessive exposure to high temperatures can kill. Excess seasonal deaths start to occur at 25C."

(Image: Getty)

A scorching weekend saw temperatures rise 29C across the county and the Met Office are predicting the warm weather will continue throughout the week.

Emergency services were called to rescue a toddler who was left in a vehicle in a supermarket car park in the glaring heat.

Dr Thomas Waite from Public Health England has produced a guide to how people can best protect themselves from dangerous ultra-violet rays.

Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for most people theres nothing to really worry about, he said.

But before the hot weather arrives, it is a really good time to think about what you can do to protect you and your family and friends.

For some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and those with young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks. Thats why were urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer. If youre able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.

The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives are to:

look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions

close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors

drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated

never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm

take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down

walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat

avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day

wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes

make sure you take water with you if you are travelling

Lincolnshire County Council is also offering some words of advice for people going out in the summer sun.

Chris Weston, consultant in public health at the county council, said: Most of us will enjoy the sunshine and warm weather, but high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable people such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.

Enjoy the sun safely by keeping out of the heat at the hottest time of the day, avoiding sunburn and drinking plenty of cool drinks. Look out for older people or those with long-term illnesses and keep indoor areas as cool as possible.
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Thieves have raided a house in Lincolnshire after smashing a patio door and stealing money and jewellery.

The burglary took place at a property in Kenzie Drive in Sutton Bridge between 11.30am and 3.30pm on Thursday, June 15.

DC Nottidge of Spalding CID would like to hear from you if you have any information that could assist the enquiry.

There are a number of ways you can report:

Via our non-emergency number 101, quoting incident number 288 of June 15.

Through the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

In an emergency always call 999

This comes after police issued a warning about burglars breaking into homes after sticking a pole through the letterbox to grab house and car keys.

Crooks use a telescopic rod with a hook to reach and grab the keys.

The warning was posted on Twitter warning home owners to be careful and think twice about where they leave their keys.

Burglars are also known to be active during warm weather when people try to cool down homes by opening windows or leaving them unlocked.
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A woman faces jail after she admitted smuggling over 40 grams of the street drug Spice into Lincoln prison.

Nicola Dowell, 41, also pleaded guilty to a charge of assault after she became angry while being searched at the Greetwell Road jail.

Lincoln Crown Court heard Dowell admitted a charge of conveying 43.74 grams of synthetic cannabis - the technical name for Spice - in to the prison on January 10 this year.

Dowell, of Castlegate, Grantham, also pleaded guilty to a charge of assault by beating on the same date.

Spice has become popular with drug users across Britain in recent months, with some users seen standing or slouching motionless and zombie-like on busy streets.

Channel 4 reported in April that the hallucinogenic and highly addictive drug is causing chaos in Britains prisons and turning its users into a zombie-like state in city centres around the country.

Mark Watson, defending in this case, asked for sentence to be adjourned so the circumstances of why Dowell was taking the drugs in for her partner could be investigated.

Mr Watson told the court: "There is a background to this - it is not a case of her making money from it.

"She has her own vulnerabilities, as does the man she was taking this in for, her partner.

"He was being subjected to various beatings at the time she was trying to take items in.

"She had also had communications, she does not know who from.

"There had been pressure on her from the outside, and pressure on him inside."

Mr Watson also asked for medical evidence to be prepared on Dowell.

He added: "Not long ago she was hospitalised due to pneumonia and clearly she has health difficulties.

"Her father has terminal cancer also."

Judge John Pini QC granted Dowell bail until she is sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court on 10 July.

But the judge warned Dowell to be under no illusions that she faced prison.

Judge Pini told her: "On any view you were taking over 40 grams of cannabis in to prison.

"It causes chaos for prison staff."
Jun 19, 2017, 5 AM

The United Nations issued 20,000 of these small souvenirs in cooperation with the United States Postal Service, using a Paul Calle stamp design created for the International Year of the Child stamp issued in 1979.

U.S. Stamp Notes  By John M. Hotchner

The 1979 15 International Year of the Child stamp (Scott 1772) was issued before U.S. stamp designs were routinely copyrighted, but the souvenir card shown with this column came with a printed note that reads, This sheetlet is under the Special Authority of the United Nations Secretariat, and the United States Postal Service. A portion of the revenues accrued from sales will go to UNICEF  The International Year of the Child Trust Fund, as a charitable donation. A limited edition of 20,000 sheetlets are being distributed internationally.

The United Nations apparently asked the U.S. Postal Service to use the design on these cards as a means of fund-raising for UNICEF.

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Paul Calle, the designer of the stamp, didnt receive any credit on the card. I wonder if either Calle or the USPS were paid a fee, and whether the USPS promoted the product in any way?

The cards were printed with International Year of the Child in five languages around the outside margin. A note on the back reads, Non-exclusive Licensee of the United States Postal Service. Stamp Design 1979 U.S. Postal Service.

I have three examples, the highest number being 9321. One of the three has no number. So I wonder if all 20,000 announced were numbered, if the unnumbered card is an error, or if an overrun also was released?

In any case, this striking design makes a nice addition to a collection, and if 20,000 were indeed sold, they should be around in dealer stocks.
May 2, 2021, 9 PM

A pane of stamps from St. Vincent celebrates the 100th birth anniversary of President John J. Kennedy and honors his 1961 commitment to have an American land on the moon.

A stamp from Guernsey commemorates the exportation of its knitted shirts to the United States. The stamp shows a shirt, which is called a guernsey, along with the American flag.

A 1.30 stamp in Frances World War I series marks the 100th anniversary of the United States entering the war April 6, 1917.

New Stamps of the World  By Denise McCarty

The American flag is not only a popular subject on United States stamps; it appears on numerous new issues from around the world as well.

For example, Guernsey Post selected the U.S. flag to appear on one of four stamps featuring the knitted shirt named after the island.

In this case, the flag represents one of the many countries that import guernseys.

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This 73-penny stamp features a red guernsey with a miniature flag flying from a knitting needle, which is stuck into a ball of red yarn. Inscribed next to the flag is The humble Guernsey. Living in America.

The bailiwicks name and a silhouette of the queen appear in white on the top of the shirt, and one sleeve bears the emblem of Sepac, the Small European Postal Administration Cooperations.

Sepac selects an annual theme for a multination series of stamps, and this years theme is local crafts.

The tourism website provides a brief history of the guernsey: Traditional Guernsey jumpers [sweaters] were originally knitted for local fishermen to protect them from the elements, knitted with close stitches from tightly twisted wool to withstand sea spray and rain.

Knitted by the fishermens wives, the pattern was passed down from mother to daughter through the generations and, while the jumpers are now machine-knitted, the final stitching together is still completed by hand today.

The navy sweater dates back to the 16th century. Trade links established in the 17th century saw the Guernsey being adopted by coastal communities around the British Isles  as well as in the military.

They were first widely used in the rating uniform of the 19th Century British Royal Navy and it is said that they were worn at the Battle of Trafalgar.

The other stamps in the set feature similar designs, but do not include the Sepac emblem.

The 44p denomination pictures a black guernsey with the flag of Guernsey; the 59p stamp shows a green guernsey and Australias flag; and a light tan guernsey and the Japanese flag are depicted on the 80p stamp.

Joseph Smith designed the stamps. Joh. Enschede of the Netherlands printed them by offset in sheets of 10.

Each stamp includes a second set of interior perforations surrounding the guernsey, so that it can be separated into a shirt-shaped stamp.

According to an inscription in the selvage of the pane, Guernsey Woolens supplied the images of the guernseys shown on the stamp. The pattern used for each sweater and where the pattern originated also are provided.

France

The U.S. flag is shown prominently on a French stamp commemorating the 100th anniversary of the United States entering World War I.

The United States severed diplomatic relations with Germany Feb. 3, 1917, and officially declared war April 6. On June 25, the first American troops arrived in France.

United States soldiers marching with the flag are pictured in the center of the new stamp. Gen. John J. Pershing, commander of the American Expeditionary Forces, is shown in the upper right, and a U.S. ship flying the flag is in the lower right. An airplane is depicted in the upper left.

La Poste issued this I.30 stamp June 23, part of a WWI centennial series that began in 2014.

Andre Lavergne designed and engraved the new stamp. Philaposte printed it by intaglio in sheets of 48.

Presidents

Several recent stamps honoring or portraying U.S. presidents also depict the U.S. flag.

On May 5, St. Vincent issued 10 stamps (a pane of six and a pane of four) to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of President John F. Kennedy. The issue has a secondary theme: Kennedys 1960s space program, with the goal of landing an American on the moon by the end of that decade.

One of the stamps shows Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin saluting the flag on the moon. Neil Armstrong, the commander of Apollo 11, took the photograph. The same photograph is shown in the selvage of the pane of six. In addition, the flag is pictured on the left side of both panes.

A stamp marking the 100th anniversary of the Espionage Act, passed June 15, 1917, shows President Woodrow Wilson and the flag. This 40,000-leone stamp from Sierra Leone was issued in a souvenir sheet of one. The flag also is shown in the designs of three of the four 6,600-leone stamps issued in a pane.

Liberia issued a $45 stamp April 28 showing President Donald J. Trump, the 45th president, in the foreground and the flag in the background. A pane of 15 issued Feb. 28 shows all presidents from Herbert Hoover to Trump.

Photographs of Trumps inaugural parade and ball are reproduced on a pane of three stamps issued April 17 by Tanzania. The stamp designs show the flag and members of both the presidents family and the family of Vice President Mike Pence.
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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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There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur

EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

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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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Giya Kancheli: Sergey Smbatyan reminded me of Edvard Mirzoyan (video)

A wonderful orchestra comprised of gifted young musicians Sergey Smbatyan reminded me of Edvard Mirzoyan, says composer Giya Kancheli. Yerevan is hosting these days living legend Giya Kancheli, one of the greatest figures in the music world. A festival dedicated to the famous Georgian composer, teacher, Peoples Artist of the USSR, will be held in Armenia on June 18-20. I learnt about the festival from clarinettist Julian Milkis a year ago. I last visited Armenia seven years ago. I am happy to visit your country again. I composed six of my seven symphonies in Dilijan. My first critics were Arno Babajanyan, Edward Mirzoyan, Alexander Harutyunyan and Avet Terteryan, says Giya Kancheli, who has written music for 70 films and 40 performances. The author is happy to have had the opportunity to work with Sergey Danelia, Robert Sturua, Georgy Tovstonogov and many others. Giya Kanchelis music is performed by the best orchestras in the world. The composer says music cannot be understood; it can be felt and perceived. I always compose what I want and feel. This is hard work. But the audience should not feel this torment, people should enjoy the result." On June 19, the Komitas Chamber Music House will host an evening of chamber music. The solo concert will feature accordionist Alexander Sevastian and clarinetist Julian Milkis. The program includes Kanchelis works written for the theater and cinema. The festival will end on June 20 with the concert at the Aram Khachaturian concert hall. The State Youth Orchestra of Armenia, soloist Alexander Sevastian and the Brass Quintet of the orchestra will present the works by Giya Kancheli, which will be performed in Armenia for the first time.
Foreign Minister of Armenia to participate in the Fifth Paris Peace Forum

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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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UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS

There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur

EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol  Armenia and Azerbaijan  to do so without delay

An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan".

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The statement of the meeting between Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Aliyev, President Macron and President Michel of October 6, 2022

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The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces

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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN

This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan

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OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs call upon parties to re-engage in negotiations

The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June. The main purpose of the Co-Chairs visit was to discuss the position of the Sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (28 April) as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone. The Co-Chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan (10 June) and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku (19 June). In both capitals, they also held consultations with the Foreign and Defence Ministers. The Co-Chairs traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh (12 June) to meet with the de-facto authorities, and visited a number of territories around Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Zangelan, Kubatly, Lachin, and Kelbajar districts. In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh. In their talks in Baku, the Co-Chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the Line of Contact, on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan. They appealed to the leadership of Azerbaijan to avoid further escalation. The Co-Chairs are sending the same message to the leadership of Armenia and de facto authorities of Nagorno-Karabakh. They encouraged the Sides to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the Line of Contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In both capitals, the Co-Chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The Presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement. The Co-Chairs will travel to Vienna to brief the members of the Minsk Group on 3 July. They also plan to meet again soon with the Azerbaijani and Armenian Foreign Ministers to discuss modalities of the forthcoming work.
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The thermometer inched above 100 at the Dairy Queen in Antioch on Sunday, which you would think would be a good thing if you happen to be in the business of selling New York Cheesecake Blizzards in Antioch.

But even in the ice cream racket, it turns out that there is such thing as too much hot air, according to Dennis Kim, who manages the DQ on East 18th Street.

Its not too busy, Kim said at about 4 p.m. I like the temperature between 85 and 95. When it is over 100, people stay home.

All over the Bay Area Sunday, folks were adjusting to unusually hot weather, which ranged from the 100s inland to the low 70s along the San Francisco coast. In San Francisco, that meant leaving the sweater at home. In Oakland, that meant an emergency trip to the hardware store.

How many fans walked out the door today? Id say at least 20, said Mario Chavez, a salesman at Markus Supply Ace Hardware, at 625 Third St. in Oakland. I got a few left, not many, but more coming tomorrow. The heat is just starting. Its going to be hot for a while, boss.

By 10 a.m. Sunday, the temperatures hovered around 80 degrees in San Francisco  about 20 degrees above average for a morning in June. Temperatures kept rising in the Bay Area throughout the day. Record highs of 97 were recorded at airports in both San Francisco and Oakland, while Livermore and San Jose also smashed previous milestones. San Jose hit 103 and Livermore 106.

This whole heat event will be the most substantial heat wave weve had this season, said Charles Bell, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Monterey.

San Francisco hit 88 degrees Sunday, beating the record set in 1993 for June 18, but Bell said the existing record for the day is not really that high. Saturdays historic high is 95, while Mondays is 92.

Breaking any records Monday is very unlikely, Bell said. Sundays heat is probably the peak for the entire event, although the heat wave is expected to last well into the week. By Friday, Bell said the high pressure system lingering overhead will move toward the east, allowing cooler weather to work its way back in.

Its not an unprecedented heat wave, Bell said. We typically will have several periods every year where well get very warm to hot weather. ... Usually well get this two to three times a year.

But just because its happened before doesnt mean the weather-weary Bay Area residents are prepared.

Be careful about leaving children and pets in cars, and please be aware that the vehicle will heat up to a dangerous level very fast, he said. Take plenty of breaks, and drink water.

There were cases and cases of cold water Sunday afternoon at the Gene Friend Rec Center in San Franciscos South of Market neighborhood, where about 100 congregants from the City Life Church on Sixth Street gathered to eat chicken and ribs after the 11:30 service.

Just kicking it with the family on Fathers Day, said the Rev. Marquez Gray. We brought in extra tents because of the heat  most people are sitting in the shade. But its not bad  San Francisco has a nice cool breeze, unlike the East Bay.

Around the corner on Sixth Street, where there are a lot more places to buy cold beer than ice cream, double-scoop bowls of Mitchells Grasshopper Pie were in high demand at Icu Market Deli. We are the only place on Sixth Street with Mitchells ice cream, said manager Willie Jay. There are places in the mall with ice cream, but they dont got Mitchells. Weve been getting groups coming in all day  a lot of couples.

A Spare the Air alert was in effect for the Bay Area on Sunday as the combination of high temperatures and traffic exhaust threatened to create unhealthy air quality. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection also issued a red flag warning for the Central Sacramento Valley, which means the areas hot and dry conditions made it vulnerable to wildfires.

The heat, and the increased reliance on air conditioning that came with it, also taxed the Bay Areas power grid. As of 8:30 p.m., more than 43,000 PG&E customers were without power, including 18,131 in the East Bay and 13,551 in the South Bay.

Trisha Thadani and J.K. Dineen are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com, jkdineen@sfchroncile.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani, @sfjkdineen
Texas industry leaders, scientists and regulators must identify and understand the environmental and social risk of shale oil and gas drilling before air pollution, water contamination or other effects lead to tighter restrictions that could derail the rebounding industry, the leader of a new study said on Monday.

We really do thrive on the availability of energy in the United States, said the University of Houstons Christine Ehlig-Economides, chairman of a shale task force convened by The Academy of Medicine, Engineering and Science of Texas. If we find that there are barriers, significant barriers that should put a stop to this kind of development, then the impacts are huge.
No Wall Too High: One Man's Daring Escape From Mao's Darkest Prison

By Xu Hongci. Translated by Erling Hoh

Sarah Crichton/Farrar Straus Giroux. 314 pp. $27

---

In April of last year, to mark National Security Education Day, a series of posters went up in an alleyway near my home in Beijing. The 16 panels, tantalizingly titled "Dangerous Love," told the story of a comely Chinese civil servant, Little Li, who meets a Western man at a dinner party. The man, David, claims to be a visiting scholar but is actually a foreign spy. He cozies up to Little Li and purloins Chinese state secrets. In one of the final panels, we see Little Li sitting handcuffed before two police officers. The moral: There are spies everywhere, beware!

This year, the competition to root out foreign spooks and their Chinese co-conspirators has spread nationwide. Educators in Jiangsu province rolled out a set of elementary school textbooks featuring games such as "find the spy." Authorities in Beijing offered cash rewards to citizens who reported foreign intelligence operatives and their Chinese lackeys. State media across China warned of an increasingly "severe" national security situation.

It's unclear whether these campaigns will actually dig up any moles. Nonetheless, these now-yearly endeavors underscore what remains a vital goal of China's government: to shore up the snitch society that has kept the Communist Party in power since its early days. From the founding of the People's Republic of China, people have been expected to report on their friends, relatives, teachers, classmates and co-workers, because it is they who know the most private thoughts of their loved ones. In China, the stool pigeon is the true hero of the revolution.

The results of these campaigns are well-known. In the early 1950s, the Communists dispatched millions to labor camps and executed millions more on the basis of evidence culled from those near and dear to them. During the Anti-Rightist Campaign, which started in 1957, 600,000 people were sent to jail, many because they had been denounced by those around them. Another low point was the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, when the lives of millions more were ruined by snitches who outed friends, relatives and neighbors for reading Western books, praising Western countries or, heaven forbid, watching an old Western movie.

One of the best ways to gain an understanding of the type of society the Communists created in China - and its legacy today - is through the memoirs of people who survived these campaigns. Jung Chang's "Wild Swans" remains a classic. But there are other equally moving books, such as "Prisoner of Mao" by Bao Ruowang, "A Single Tear" by Wu Ningkun and Li Yikai, and "Life and Death in Shanghai" by Nien Cheng, who immigrated to Washington after she was released from the Chinese gulag and lived there until she died in 2009.

Now we can add another masterpiece to this list: "No Wall Too High: One Man's Daring Escape From Mao's Darkest Prison," by Xu Hongci. Xu's memoir, which was translated and edited from Chinese by the writer Erling Hoh, tells the story of an idealistic Communist Party member who falls afoul of the revolution when his expectations for a democratic China run headlong into Mao's totalitarian regime. In 1957, Xu was sentenced to China's gulag after he and a few classmates publicly criticized the Communist Party for its (at the time) slavish devotion to the Soviet Union, for holding "fake elections" with only one party-approved candidate, and for its harsh persecution of those who had hoped that Mao's revolution meant freedom, not repression. Xu was denounced by his girlfriend and his schoolmates.

Thus begins the story of Xu's 16-year life in the gulag. Throughout his odyssey, Xu suffered at the hands of his fellow inmates, who received extra food or a lighter workload in exchange for speaking ill of him. He was slapped into solitary confinement, beaten, made the subject of mass "struggle sessions" and threatened with execution. Xu's journey in Mao's gulag finally ended in 1973, when he achieved the impossible: He escaped from prison and from China, fleeing to the relative freedom of the then-People's Republic of Mongolia. Xu's translator, Hoh, is not wrong to claim that Xu is the only known escapee from Mao's prisons.

What distinguishes Xu from many other Chinese memoirists is that while many of them were bystanders caught up in the events, Xu was a true believer who passionately wanted to make a contribution to his country. He joined the underground Communist Party before the 1949 revolution at the age of 15. And in the first years following Mao's victory he participated in the often-bloody land reform movement and supported the party's goals.

But, like many well-meaning acolytes of the regime, Xu became the prey of the Communist Party, which turned on its young. To crush Xu, the party relied on those around him - first his friends and girlfriend and later his fellow inmates - to report on his inner thoughts and to implicate him in an endless series of "thought crimes," which essentially revolved around his undying desire to be free.

What's amazing is that throughout his 16 years in jail, Xu remained unbowed and convinced of the righteousness of his cause. He tried to escape four times, and he details each attempt and all the other dramatic events of his imprisonment with a painstaking sense of historical responsibility. Despite the constant surveillance and ratting, Xu held few grudges among the wardens and prisoners who persecuted him so; he knew who was to blame. "People become evil at the enticement of others," he observed. "If there's hadn't been a Mao Zedong, I'm sure there wouldn't be lackeys."

After China's opening to the West, Xu was allowed to return to China from Mongolia. With his Mongolian wife, he settled back in his home town, Shanghai. In 2008, a version of Xu's memoir was first published in Chinese in Hong Kong. That year, Xu died.

In 2012, the writer Erling Hoh found the memoir in a library in Hong Kong. Hoh contacted Xu's family and obtained Xu's unedited manuscript. He discovered that the Chinese version had been censored by a Chinese journalist and party member who had toned down Xu's acerbic criticism of the state. Hoh then re-translated the entire 600 pages of the original manuscript, whittling it down to a compelling read.

China's latest binge of vigilance against spies and other enemies is a reminder that those who seek to empower the snitch society remain active. To be sure, China has progressed since the dark days of the 1950s and '60s when its labor camps were stuffed full of "class enemies." Still, if you have any doubts about the tenacity of the hold that China's repressive system exerts on its people, ponder for a bit the fate of Lee Bo, the Hong Kong bookseller who published the Chinese edition of Xu's book. In the spring of 2016, just as China was ramping up its National Security Day campaign, Chinese agents kidnapped Lee from Hong Kong and smuggled him over the border into China. There, Lee was held for several weeks incommunicado and ordered to stop publishing books that exposed the troubled history of the Chinese Communist Party.

---

Pomfret is an editor at large at SupChina and the author of "The Beautiful Country and the Middle Kingdom: America and China, From 1776 to the Present."
Significant changes are afoot that will alter the food focus at one of Houston's most lauded restaurants.

The five-year-old Underbelly, the restaurant that James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd made a national culinary destination, is changing its menu to reflect a greater emphasis on seafood and vegetable dishes. It's a direction of notable importance given that Underbelly has been known for its whole animal program where cows were broken down in the restaurant's butcher shop and beef cuts were prominently featured on the menu.

But Shepherd has been busy over the past year refocusing the story he's telling about Houston food  a message so well received that he's among the local chefs that helped make the city a culinary hot spot. Earlier this year Shepherd launched the ambitious One Fifth restaurant (in the former Mark's American Cuisine spot) that will change its menu five times over five years.

And now comes a completely new focus for his signature restaurant that was built on whole animal (pigs and goats, too) cooking. Shepherd now sees the whole animal program as limiting menu diversity. Beef, for example, took up a lot of space on the menu  an imbalance, he now calls it -- because all parts of the animal had to be used.

So starting June 20, Underbelly no longer will buy whole steers. The menu will immediately shift to a greater emphasis on seafood and vegetables. And seafood not just from the Gulf (Underbelly has traditionally used Gulf fish, and was one of the early champions of bycatch fish); Shepherd is now looking beyond the local waters to seek out fish from other American coasts. The new menu offers dishes such as ceviches, crudos, seafood towers, Vietnamese- and Thai-flavored fish, seared tuna and red snapper, and grilled Gulf fish.

"No one wants a giant beef shank in the middle of a hot Houston summer," Shepherd said. "But in the past, we've had to serve it, because we had an entire cow in the butcher shop cooler. Our cooks want more variety, and frankly, so do our guests."

Underbelly will continue to serve meat (from 44 Farms as needed) and continue to butcher whole pigs, goat, chicken and fish. It also will continue its charcuterie program. And those Korean braised goat dumplings that have become an Underbelly signature? No need for panic: they're staying on the menu.

But fish and vegetables are now front and center. Fish coming from purveyors securing the best catch in waters from the Gulf up through Virginia. And vegetables from local farmers  which Underbelly has done since Day 1 but now with a more intense emphasis.

There's another major development coming for Underbelly and its sister restaurant next door, the Hay Merchant: cocktails.

Previously wine and beer only establishments  Underbelly built a significant wine program under wine director Matthew Pridgen, while owner Kevin Floyd championed a highly curated craft beer experience at the Hay Merchant  both will now serve spirits for the first time.

The Hay Merchant is planning to serve cocktails beginning June 27 followed by Underbelly's new cocktail menu on July 10.

The move to full bars at both restaurants is part of a natural evolution for both Shepherd and Floyd. Floyd has been immersed in spirits as he's been building the cocktail program at One Fifth. And for several years now Shepherd has been indulging in a personal passion for bourbon.

The cocktail programs for each will be executed by newly appointed spirits director Westin Galleymore, who most recently bartended at One Fifth and spent two years at Anvil Bar & Refuge.

The cocktails at the Hay Merchant are designed to be "playful, easy, and approachable," according to a press release. The spirits program will be smaller at the Hay Merchant than at Underbelly, preserving the focus on beer. And most of the Hay Merchant cocktails will be on tap just like the draft beers.

At Underbelly, meanwhile, the cocktail program will be deeper and more dynamic.

"People are excited to dine here because they know they'll try something new every time," Galleymore said. "That's the way I want the cocktail menu to be  clean, well-sourced and ever evolving."

Growlers will no longer be sold at the Hay Merchant due to the new type of liquor license. Similarly, Underbelly no longer will be able to sell wine to go, or allow customers to BYOB.

Shepherd said he welcomes all the changes because they continue to tell new stories about the way Houston eats (and drinks).

"I've always said that the only thing consistent about Underbelly is change," he said. "And this is just one more example of change."

Underbelly, 1100 Westheimer, 713-528-9800, underbellyhouston.com; The Hay Merchant, 1100 Westheimer, 713-528-9805, haymerchant.com
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A Laredoan is taking a local product to national TV soon.

On June 27, Aryana Valdez will represent the family brand AvoProducts on QVC. Valdez is scheduled to appear on The Find, which showcases beauty lines between 9 p.m. and midnight. She will present Avore avocado oil moisturizing pads.

To get asked back we need to sell out in six to eight minutes or at least do very, very well, Valdez said.

Before branching into cosmetics, Avore products initially began as extra virgin avocado oil.

The way we came about it is my husband, my father-in-law and my brother-in-law they sell 100 percent avocado oil, Valdez said.

READ MORE: Winners crowned at this year's Miss Laredo beauty pageant

Ruben Valdez, founder of AvoProducts, came to Texas in 1968 and would eventually open a restaurant. His oldest son, Ruben, discovered the demand for avocado oil and partnered with a producer in Mexico to export top quality avocado oil to France.

By 2014, Avocare extra virgin avocado oil was being distributed.

Don Ruben avocado cooking oil can be found at speciality meat markets and Avocare brand can be found on the shelves at H-E-B. The avocado oils are also for sale at various farmers markets in Texas. Frequent customers praised the benefits avocado oil had both in and outside the kitchen, as they applied it to their hair and skin.

Marcelo Valdez, the youngest son, saw an opportunity to expand the use of avocado oil and further their product base.

RELATED: Kyle Bass' 2,400 acre Texas ranch listed at $59.5 million

After researching the benefits of using avocado oil for more than cooking, the family contacted a cosmetic lab in Dallas that helped create the Avore cosmetic line. The family has since introduced avocado-related products ranging from body lotion and eye creams to exfoliants.

Its been a really amazing journey, Valdez said. Seeing my family work on this, it feels surreal. Its a long process but a very rewarding one.
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U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded almost 70 migrant deaths in the Laredo Sector in 2016, according to a recently released CBP report.

Border Patrols Search, Trauma and Rescue Unit, known as BORSTAR, also recorded 1,018 rescues in the Laredo Sector.

Crossing our southwestern border is an illegal and dangerous undertaking, said U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar. We know hundreds of lives are lost each year as people attempt this risky journey. However, we need more information to address this problem.

Click through the gallery above to see where Laredo Sector ranks among the deadliest border crossings in Texas and America.

Cuellar directed the Department of Homeland Security to report on its search and rescue efforts each year, including the causes of death of migrants attempting to cross the southwest border.

READ MORE: Winners crowned at this year's Miss Laredo beauty pageant

Last month, the House of Representatives passed the fiscal year 2017 Omnibus Appropriations Act, including requirements from Cuellar that DHS prepare the report.

In the Laredo Sector, the 68 recorded migrant deaths were attributed to:

Heat exposure: 17

Water-related: 15

Undetermined: 24

Other: 2

Motor vehicle-related: 8

Cold exposure: 2

The U.S. Border Patrol, while securing our homeland, also saves many of these migrants lives, especially the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue Unit, a news release from Cuellars office states. This report allows us to both acknowledge their current heroic efforts, and begin to identify where and how they can improve.

Border Patrol has more than 246 trained and certified BORSTAR Unit agents, and 1,200 certified emergency medical technicians. For fiscal year 2016, Border Patrol budgeted and spent almost $1.6 million in support of search and rescue operations.

When a migrant dies, Border Patrol notifies law enforcement and the coroners office within the jurisdiction of the located deceased individual.

RELATED: Suspected gang member charged in Laredo auto-theft ring case

Law enforcement conducts a death-related investigation and the coroner takes custody of the body to determine the cause and manner of death. Border Patrol contacts the consulate office of the deceased individuals native country for notification.

The Laredo Sector has established a full-time Missing Migrant Initiative, dedicating Border Patrol personnel and resources to the identification and return/transfer of the deceased.

The initiative works with foreign consulates and other agencies to locate and identify missing and suspected deceased undocumented immigrants and to offer their families the opportunity to claim their remains.

The initiative grew out of the Border Safety Initiative, which seeks to save the lives of migrants when they find themselves in peril.
Laredo police are asking the community to assist them in identifying people of interest in connection with a theft case.

Officers responded to the theft report May 29 in the 4800 block of San Dario Avenue. Officers learned that a person dropped his wallet by the main entrance.
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Border Patrol agents assigned to the Freer Border Patrol Checkpoint on Highway 59 rescued three Mexican nationals hidden inside a van Thursday.

The agents encountered an express van at the primary lane of the checkpoint. The driver was questioned regarding his immigration status and was referred for further inspection after a Border Patrol canine alerted agents of the presence of concealed humans and/or narcotics.

A further search of the vehicle resulted in the rescue of three illegal aliens concealed in an aftermarket wooden cabinet that was inside the van. The three illegal aliens were Mexican nationals. The driver, a citizen of the United States, was arrested.

READ MORE: Suspected gang member charged in Laredo auto-theft ring case

The disregard for human life in which these persons were subjected to and the inhumane conditions that they were placed in demonstrates how callous and heartless these smugglers can be, said Laredo Sector Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Gabriel Acosta.

To report suspicious activity, call 1-800-343-1994.
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Heart patients from around the nation who say the anticlotting drug Plavix has caused sometimes-fatal internal bleeding cannot sue the manufacturer in San Francisco, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Monday in the latest of a series of decisions to restrict litigation against multistate companies.

The 8-1 ruling reversed a decision last year by the California Supreme Court, which would have allowed a nationwide suit against manufacturer Bristol-Myers Squibb by 86 Californians and 592 residents of other states to proceed in a state court in San Francisco. Although the company is based in New York, it has five offices in California, had Plavix sales of more than $900 million over a six-year period, and conducted nationwide advertising that could be judged in a single court, the state justices said.

Thats not enough to allow a California court to decide non-Californians claims of harm by a non-California company, said the nations high court.

Bristol-Myers did not develop Plavix in California, did not create a marketing strategy for Plavix in California, and did not manufacture, label, package or work on the regulatory approval of the product in California, Justice Samuel Alito wrote in the majority opinion.

The California plaintiffs can sue the company here, but the nonresidents claims involve no harm in California and no harm to California residents and cannot be heard in a California court, Alito said.

In dissent, Justice Sonia Sotomayor said the ruling hands one more tool to corporate defendants determined to prevent the aggregation of individual claims into a single suit. Bristol-Myers is being sued for its nationwide conduct, she said, and some aggrieved customers might not be able to afford separate lawsuits in their own states.

Mondays ruling is the latest to back companies facing wide-ranging lawsuits. The Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that Argentines who accused Mercedes-Benz of colluding with Argentinas government to brutally repress their relatives in the late 1970s and early 1980s could not sue the German auto company in California, where it had substantial sales but was not headquartered.

Last month, the court barred a Montana lawsuit against a railway company by former employees who lived and were injured in other states, and, in another case, restricted the courts in which patent-holders could file suits for violations of their rights.

In Mondays ruling, the court continued its push-back against forum-shopping, said Rusty Perdew, a Chicago business lawyer not involved in the case. The decision brings predictability to companies that operate nationwide by limiting the states in which they can be sued.

But Robert Peck, an attorney who filed arguments on behalf of a plaintiffs lawyers organization called the American Association for Justice, said the ruling will make it more difficult to hold corporations accountable for harming large numbers of people.

Plavix thins the blood to avoid clotting and is prescribed for patients who have suffered heart attacks or strokes. Potential side effects include bleeding and bruising, but U.S. health agencies consider the drug safe if properly taken and monitored.

However, the lawsuit claims that Plavix increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes and that Bristol-Myers has failed to disclose those dangers while falsely promoting the drugs safety. Eighteen of the claims were brought by relatives of patients who have died.

The case has been on hold while the opposing sides argue over whether it could be heard by a single court in California or by courts elsewhere.

Although courts would apply the same set of laws to each plaintiffs claim  most likely, the laws of the state where the drug was purchased  plaintiffs prefer a joint action in a state such as California with lawyers well versed in product liability and willing to take on a case with a potentially large payout.

The case is Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. vs. Superior Court of California, San Francisco County, 16-466.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko

Read the ruling

The ruling can be viewed at http://bit.ly/2rJbs9U.
Statistics presented to Montgomery County commissioners show that deputies with the Precinct 5 Constable's Office are slated to not only surpass the number of annual arrests in 2017 - they are poised to more than double.

In total, 66 adults were arrested in 2015 while 152 were arrested in 2016. But already in 2017, 180 adults have been arrested through May. Precinct 5 Constable's Office Chief Deputy Chris Jones, who presented the numbers to commissioners June 13, credits the office's recent restructuring as the reason for more arrests.

While the constable's office is tasked with serving civil papers to residents in Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, the office also performs routine patrols throughout its 220-square-foot precinct in Southwest Montgomery County. The office's old structure leaned heavily on serving civil papers.

But now, the office has two distinct divisions for civil service and patrol, which helped give deputies in each division focus in their specific jobs.

"With our new patrol division, we wanted to focus on traffic, the safety and security of our residents and those who pass through our precinct," Jones said. "We wanted to up our patrols and up our traffic stops to slow down some of these people on our roadways. Having our patrol division allows us to do that."

The Office is also gearing up for the explosion with growth in that area, which includes a projected 9,600-home increase to the area's neighborhoods. Jones said Precinct 5 Constable David Hill spoke with constituents during his most recent campaign for re-election, most of whom "expected more" of the Constable's Office.

"With the leadership of Constable Rowdy Hayden and Constable Ryan Gable, they've seen more going on that the constables have been doing," Jones said. "I think it's time for us to get involved."

Not only is the population growing  the Constable's Office is also prepping for some major roadway expansions as well on FM 1774 and FM 1488.

"We've got of growth," Jones said, also mentioning the upcoming Texas 249 expansion. "We also have other road projects that are bringing in a lot of people and a lot of traffic in our area."

The number of traffic stops is also set to more than double, Jones said.

Deputies performed 942 traffic stops in 2015 and 1,704 traffic stops in 2016, Jones said. Already in 2017, deputies have performed 1,772 traffic stops through the end of May.

Those traffic stops and other policing activities by deputies led to nearly six pounds of drugs being taken off the streets. Deputies, alongside the Drug Enforcement Agency and DPS, also helped dismantle two drug rings.

"I'm really proud of my guys," Jones said. "Working with the guys at DPS and DEA, we've stepped up and really taken on a lot of responsibility."
Spring Branch Independent School District approved a district-wide pay increase for the 2017-18 school year at a May 30 school board meeting, which means the district will have to reach into its own budget to fund the $9 million it will take to cover the raises as the recently wrapped 85th session of the Texas Legislature did not set aside any new money for school districts.

In fact, the district will receive $400 less per student next year in state funding after recapture payments are accounted for. Recapture is the so-called "Robin Hood" plan that takes money from property-rich school districts and diverts it to lower-income districts.

"Our board has made taking care of our employees their number one priority," said Linda H. Buchman, community relations officer for Spring Branch Independent School District. "Our board was very concerned we could not approve an increase last year. That's very troubling to all of us in the leadership team and our board."

The $9 million will be shifted from other areas of the budget to pay for the $1,950 per teacher, per year increase and a 1 or 3 percent increase of midpoint salaries for all other positions. A fund that gave employees a 2 percent supplemental income will be converted to salaries, $2.5 million will be redirected from a reserve fund for the increase and the district will decrease its medical contribution by $2.5 million.

Karen Wilson, associate superintendent for finance with Spring Branch ISD said that individual contributions to Teachers Retirement Services Active Care Medical Plan will necessarily be increased due to the district's move to shift its contribution dollars to salaries.

In district documents that outline the new compensation plan, it reflects that an employee under the Active Care 2 plan (the plan with the most enrolled employees compared to the 1 HD and the Select Plan) a single individual who contributed $181 per period in the 2016-17 school year will contribute $281 per period starting in the 2017-18 year, under the presumption that TRS doesn't change these plan costs.

District contributions under the same plan in the example would decrease by $100.

District officials feel they are still maintaining a competitive benefits package even in light of an increase in employee responsibility. Where they felt they were not as competitive was in salaries.

"In order to stay competitive, the board initiated a study last year to compare SBISD to neighboring districts to see how they stacked up," said Buchman.

They found that one of the areas was teacher salaries. For example, a first-year teacher will now start out at $52,000 per year in the 2017-18 school year as opposed to $50,000 last year.

"We've been exceedingly impacted by recapture and there was a significant increase (in recapture payments), and our teachers are the backbone of the school district," she said. "Our employees are critical. You can only ask your employees to bear the burden and weight of the state funding model for so long."

The state funding model is something Spring Branch ISD has been outspoken critics of at the capital over this legislative session.

"Public school districts and SBISD received no financial relief from the Texas Legislature, which passed a state budget that relies on some $1.8 billion in local property taxes to fund public education, including $77 million in recapture from SBISD next year alone," said Dr. Scott Muri, Spring Branch ISD superintendent of schools.

"Still, we look forward to the special session in July and are hopeful that the Legislature will make investing in the education of our children its top priority. If the state of Texas paid its fair share and relied less on locally generated revenue to finance schools, SBISD could continue to provide competitive pay packages to our employees while lowering the tax burden on our community."
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For four years Staff Sgt. Phillip Blackmon pressed his head against a window looking for bombs to diffuse, while the U.S. Army tank he sat in moved 5 miles an hour through Iraqi dirt.

He can't count the number of bombs that went off within arms' reach, or the number of injuries they caused.

After disarming more than 150,000 tons of bombs, the 38-year-old now walks with a cane. Some of his injuries have affected his vision and required speech therapy.

He might have been injured many times while attempting to defuse bombs, but "there was never a boring day at work," the veteran said.

"I liked the idea of running towards something when everyone else ran away from it. I specifically joined the Army to save lives."

The risk was not without reward, as the Purple Heart recipient will soon receive a new home in Beaumont.

The Texas Sentinels, a foundation established to repay military veterans for their service, notified Blackmon and his family in April that they will receive a home in Beaumont.

This Saturday, a clay shoot in Lumberton will start a series of fundraising events hosted by the Texas Sentinels and Re/Max One.

Real estate agent Lori Goats said her team plans to close on the lot this week, and construction will start immediately

after. To date, brick, roofing, pest control and contracting companies have volunteered their time to help the Blackmons move from their Garland residence to their new home by Christmas.

"I'm tickled to death that they offered me the opportunity. I'm looking forward to helping a veteran, having been one myself," said Robert Glassey, of Armour General Contractors, a U.S. Air Force veteran who will be the contractor on the project.

"They asked us how we felt about a house in Beaumont, and we went for it," said Blackmon's wife, Tammy Blackmon.

Phillip is happy to settle down in an area similar to his hometown of Mount Pleasant.

"It's so emotionally overwhelming for people to do things like this for people they don't even know," he said.

Read more in today's print edition of The Enterprise.

Click here to have the daily eEdition delivered straight to your inbox.
Montgomery County, Maryland, spent at least $10 million on attorneys, expert witnesses and consultants to pursue the lawsuit it opted to settle for $25 million last month against the designer and builders of the Silver Spring Transit Center.

The tab is expected to grow as additional invoices are tallied, County Attorney Marc Hansen said.

The county agreed to settle during the trial, almost two years after it filed suit seeking $67 million in damages from designer Parsons Brinckerhoff, general contractor Foulger-Pratt and construction inspection firm Robert B. Balter.

County Executive Isiah Leggett, D, had pledged on several occasions to hold contractors accountable for all repair costs. But when pretrial rulings by Circuit Court Judge Michael Mason threw out the county's allegations of fraud and its demand for punitive damages and court costs, settlement became a more attractive option. Negotiations between attorneys for the county and contractors went on behind the scenes for most of the three-week trial.

"Despite what I said earlier, I thought this was the most reasonable avenue," Leggett said shortly after the settlement was announced. As part of the agreements, neither the county nor the contractors acknowledged any negligence or wrongdoing.

The three-story concrete transit hub on Colesville Road opened five years late and $50 million over budget in August 2015, because of what officials alleged were design and construction flaws.

According to records provided by the county to The Washington Post, the single biggest lawsuit expense was $6.5 million for outside legal counsel. The county retained Saul Ewing, a firm with experience in complex litigation arising from troubled public-works projects. Its attorneys billed on a sliding scale of hourly rates - discounted for public-sector clients, Hansen said - that ranged from $525 for partners to $200 for paralegals.

"We knew it was going to be very expensive," said Leggett, who praised the county legal team but defended the outside help. "If we need special expertise, then I think we need to lawyer up to protect the county's interests."

Some of Leggett's longtime critics called the litigation costs a sorry coda to the biggest public-works fiasco in county history.

"Here the pigeons are coming home to roost," said Robin Ficker, a Republican who lost to Leggett in 2006 and will run for county executive again next year, when Leggett is retiring.

He speculated that the legal costs may have motivated Leggett to propose an 8.6 percent property tax increase last year. Leggett, who later reduced the proposal by half, wanted the additional revenue for schools. He called Ficker's assertion "absurd."

Former county executive Doug Duncan, D, who lost a comeback bid to Leggett in 2014, said "taxpayers got hosed" on the $25 million settlement after originally seeking $47 million for cost overruns and $20 million in damages.

"It all comes down to Ike Leggett saying the county is not going to pay a cent extra for this, knowing that wasn't true," Duncan said. "This whole thing was handled horribly from the beginning."

Leggett scoffed at Duncan's remarks. "I said I was going to try to get every penny back. What county executive wouldn't say that?" he asked.

Given what was left of the county's claim after Mason's ruling, Leggett said, the most to be gained by staying in a trial was an additional $7 million to $8 million. There were also ongoing legal costs, and the chance that the county could win but be reversed on appeal, leaving taxpayers with nothing.

In a separate settlement, the county agreed to pay Foulger-Pratt $3 million for compensation the county withheld during the dispute over how to repair the building.

The three Democratic county lawmakers running for executive next year - Roger Berliner, Potomac-Bethesda, George Leventhal, At Large, and Marc Elrich, At Large, declined to question Leggett's decision.

"No one on the County Council is in a position to second-guess either how much was spent or the settlement itself," Berliner said. "It was a settlement [Leggett and the lawyers] recommended, and I have nothing else to go on."

In addition to attorneys' fees, the county spent at least $3.3 million on consultants and expert witnesses who were hired to persuade the jury - over strenuous opposition from defense attorneys - that substandard design, construction and inspection produced cracks and weaknesses in concrete and a lack of supporting steel.

County officials said the witnesses spent hundreds of hours reviewing the records generated by the project, which dates back to 2006. There were non-testifying consultants who helped attorneys sort through sometimes highly technical material. The fees include:

--$1.6 million to Grayhawk, a New Jersey-based construction management firm that analyzed scheduling delays and allocated damages among the contractors.

--$450,000 to John Fraczek, senior principal for Wiss Janney Elstner Associates, a Northbrook, Ill. engineering company. He testified that excessive cracking in concrete was because of a faulty design by Parsons Brinckerhoff.

--$239,000 to KCE Structural Engineers, the firm the county hired in 2012 to investigate problems with the Transit Center.

KCE also was paid $8.5 million for its initial report on those problems, which the county attorney said was considered a "pre-litigation expense," not a legal cost.
TOKYO - A U.S. Coast Guard investigation team arrived in Japan Monday to start piecing together the sequence of events that led to the weekend collision between a Navy destroyer and a fully loaded container ship four times its size.

There are now multiple investigations into the accident, from both the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard as well as the Japan's Coast Guard and its Transport Safety Board.

"The Coast Guard will be taking the lead in the marine casualty investigation," said Lt. Scott Carr, spokesman for the American investigation team.

The investigators will be questioning the crew of the USS Fitzgerald, the Aegis guided missile destroyer that collided with the ACX Crystal, a Philippine-flagged container ship, just off the Izu peninsula. The crash site was south of the Fitzgerald's home port, the Seventh Fleet base at Yokosuka, and south of Tokyo, where the Crystal was headed.

Seven sailors died as a result to the collision, which severely damaged the berthing compartments where they were sleeping, resulting in flooding. The ship's captain was also injured and evacuated by hospital to the naval base hospital at Yokosuka.

The 20 crew members on the container ship, chartered by the Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen, were reported unharmed.

"We are working to gain access to the crew of the Philippine-flagged vessel but it's taking a little bit of time to make that happen," Carr said.

The collision appears to have happened at about 1:30 a.m. Saturday morning, not 2:30 a.m. as the Seventh Fleet reported. That was the time that the Fitzgerald alerted the Seventh Fleet of the collision, a spokesman said.

Marine tracking data showed the Crystal proceeding on a westward course toward Tokyo, but shortly after 1:30 a.m. it performed a sudden U-turn and returned back to where it had been at 1:30.

"We are fully cooperating with the investigation," said Manami Meguro, a spokeswoman for Nippon Yusen.

The ship unloaded some of its cargo at Tokyo then continued to Yokohama, where it offloaded the rest of the containers. After that, it will likely be taken out of service while the investigation takes place, the Asahi Shimbun reported.

Both Nippon Yusen and the ship's owner, Kobe-based Dainichi-Invest Corp., declined to confirm the report.

Japanese investigators boarded the container ship over the weekend and interviewed the captain and crew, according to other local news reports.

"In general, when two vessels collide, then both would be subject to investigation and suspicions of endangering marine traffic through professional negligence could apply to both vessels," said Yoshihito Nakamura, a spokesman for the Japanese Coast Guard.

Three investigators for Japan's Transport Safety Board had inspected the container ship inside and out, said spokeswoman Yuko Watanabe. It was not clear when or if Japanese investigators would be able to check the Fitzgerald or talk to its crew, she said.

The path of the Fitzgerald before the collision is not clear because military ships do not transmit location data like commercial vessels.

The Fitzgerald is part of the same fleet as the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, also based at Yokosuka. The Reagan carrier group, as well as other groups, have been particularly active in the area around the Korean Peninsula in recent months because of heightened tensions with North Korea. However, the Fitzgerald was operating independently of the Reagan at the time of the collision.

---

Yuki Oda contributed reporting.
Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law and a senior White House adviser, is traveling to the Middle East this week in pursuit of a peace deal between the Israelis and the Palestinians, a White House official confirmed Sunday night.

Kushner will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netayahu in Jerusalem and with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah as a Trump envoy, along with Jason Greenblatt, an assistant to Trump and special representative for international negotiations.

The visit comes one month after Trump's maiden trip to the region, during which he met with Israeli and Palestinian officials and committed to working to bring both sides together in a lasting peace agreement. The Wall Street Journal first reported news of Kushner and Greenblatt's trip.

Greenblatt was scheduled to arrive in the Middle East on Monday, with Kushner arriving Wednesday for the conversations with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, according to the White House official, who detailed the trip on the condition of anonymity.

The official sought to temper expectations, saying that Kushner and Greenblatt are hoping to "continue conversations" with both sides but noting that an accord almost certainly would require ongoing discussions.

"It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr. Kushner and Mr. Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington, D.C., or other locations as they pursue substantive talks," the White House official said.

Kushner's trip to the Middle East is perhaps the clearest sign yet that the expanding Russia investigation led by special counsel Robert Mueller has not resulted in a downsizing of his far-reaching policy portfolio, nor has it given Trump pause about deploying him as his representative overseas.

The Washington Post reported last week that Mueller is investigating Kushner's business dealings as part of his investigation of Russia's interference in the 2016 presidential election. Kushner has said through his private attorney that he will cooperate with all inquiries, including the Mueller probe and a pair of congressional committee investigations.

Kushner and Greenblatt helped orchestrate Trump's May 22-23 visit to Jerusalem, where he met with Netayahu, and to Bethlehem in the West Bank, where he met with Abbas. Kushner also played a leading role in planning Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, where he addressed a rare summit of the leaders of about 50 Muslim nations, and called for a united front against terrorism and extremism.

Trump has deputized Kushner and Greenblatt with leading the U.S. efforts at Middle East peace. The White House official stressed that both presidential advisers are respectful of the interagency process and working with the State Department, led by Secretary Rex Tillerson, and the National Security Council, led by national security adviser H.R. McMaster.

"President Trump has made it clear that working toward achieving a lasting peace agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians is a top priority for him," the White House official said. "He strongly believes that peace is possible."
Submitted

The third teen accused in the brutal attack of an off-duty Montgomery County deputy in December was indicted Thursday.

Jujuan Burks Jr., 16, as well as Israel Treqkwaun Hunter, 20, and Michael Gene Jones, 17, are accused of attacking the deputy as he packed ice into his truck at the Summer Hills Food Mart in the 24200 block of Sorters Road near Porter in East Montgomery County Dec. 10. A judge decided Burks, who is a juvenile, could stand trial as an adult in April.
A man accused of stealing more than $200,000 from Southeast Texans in a high-profile investment that never materialized is expected to face a Jefferson County judge for trial this summer on three felony charges.

William Curtis Jones appeared in court Friday morning for a pre-trial hearing, though his defense attorney said a scheduled June 26 trial will likely be postponed.

Jones was the Chief Operating Officer of Management Resources Group Inc., which in 2010 promised investors a commercial electric power generation plant and millions of dollars for improvements to downtown Port Arthur.

Jones and real estate investor Chester "Eddie" Stockton, who was the company's chief executive officer and president before he died in 2011, pitched a "green energy" vision, including a natural gas-fueled power plant and the renovation of the city's downtown in the model of New Orleans' French Quarter.

The plan was bolstered by an "alliance" with Lamar University, and by high-profile involvement, including former congressman Nick Lampson.

Lampson said Friday that while he had no money invested in the company, as an adviser, the company "got me in front of a TV camera to say things I sort of wish I hadn't said, about jobs and investment that never came to fruition.

Developer Jeff Hayes was the chairman of the board, and Stockton was well-known in local real estate, giving investors confidence to contribute up to $350,000 to the venture, Hayes told the Enterprise in 2012.

But after Stockton's death, plans never materialized, and Jones, who had a previous conviction for felony theft, was indicted by a Jefferson County grand jury in November 2015 on three first-degree felony counts.

He is charged with theft of more than $200,000, misapplication of fiduciary duty, and money laundering for a "scheme or continuing course of conduct" between June 5, 2010, and Dec. 28, 2010, according to court documents.

The case, which was scheduled to go to trial later this month, is "a paper

case," Jones' attorney, Thomas Burbank, said Friday, meaning it relies largely on documents which continue to be uncovered.

"I was told this morning there are new documents that have come to light," he said. "It may be put on hold until we have ample time to see what was new," he said. "There's an enormous amount of paper," he said.

Lampson, who said he was not aware that Jones had been charged with the three felonies, said questions began to be raised after Stockton's death.

"There was a contract that seemed to have been copied," he said, "and maybe what he was putting together was not making as much sense."

"I don't know if it was a scam, it may have been pure disorganization and lack of knowledge," he said.

Each felony charge carries a possible sentence of anywhere from 5 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

LTeitz@BeaumontEnterprise.comTwitter.com/LizTeitz
LONDON - In a city on edge over a series of Islamist-inspired attacks, where police keep extensive watchlists and monitor potential militants, terror took a new turn when a van plowed into a group of Muslim worshippers here Monday.

A man identified as Darren Osborne, a 47-year-old Welshman from Cardiff, was allegedly behind the wheel. He was not an any security watchlists. But if he took the authorities by surprise, the act capped a growing dread in London's Muslim community.

Witnesses said the driver was heard shouting after he was wrestled to the ground that he wanted to kill Muslims. It was chilling but not, in the Finsbury Park neighborhood, entirely unexpected. Fears have been growing among Muslims here that they could be singled out by extremists in tit-for-tat attacks because of other attacks carried out in the name of Islam, even though they are widely denounced by the mainstream Muslim community.

Monday's early morning attack was confounding in another way, too. Using vans, trucks or cars as weapons poses huge challenges to public safety. Hours after the London attack, a man in Paris drove his car into a police car; only the attacker died, but it underscored the difficulty of defending against violence by vehicle.

The Paris assailant has not been publicly identified but was known to French authorities, the Associated Press reported, and was listed in a dossier of people suspected of posing a threat to national security.

In England, an attack by a man who was on no one's radar has deepened the anxiety, especially as he appears to have deliberately targeted Muslims. (Scotland Yard has not confirmed that the suspect, who was arrested, is Osborne; he was identified by several British media outfits.)

"We don't feel safe anywhere," said a young man who gave his name as Adil Rana. "We don't feel safe walking the streets or going to the mosque."

The incident occurred in Finsbury Park, for years considered to be a hotbed of Islamist extremism. A relatively deprived immigrant neighborhood in north London, it is the home of the Finsbury Park Mosque - once notorious for housing the radical Egyptian cleric known as Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was later extradited to the United States and found guilty of terrorism charges.

But like many of its surrounding neighborhoods, the area has rapidly gentrified in recent years, arguably becoming both more diverse and tolerant at the same time. Kebab shops sit comfortably next to cafes serving flat white espressos. Finsbury Park Mosque has undergone its own dramatic reforms over the previous decade, too, with its extremist edges stripped away.

For the past decade, the mosque has sought to emphasize, according to its website, the "true teachings of Islam as a religion of tolerance, cooperation and peaceful harmony amongst all people who lead a life of balance, justice and mutual respect."

In 2014 it won a prestigious award for its services to the community. But its past links to extremism have made it - and its neighborhood - a target for criticism from Britain's far right.

Even before this attack, Muslims said they have seen a sharp rise in hate crimes, here and elsewhere in Britain.

"Over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia, and this is the most violent manifestation to date," said Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, in a statement.

At least 10 people were injured when the van hit the crowd of worshippers who had just left a Ramadan prayer service at the Muslim Welfare House, in Finsbury Park. One man died at the scene, but police said that he was receiving first aid before the van struck, and it was unclear whether he died as a result of the attack.

Abdulrahman Aidroos said he and his friends were attending to the man who had collapsed when suddenly he saw a van driving "straight into us."

The driver of the van jumped out and tried to run, Aidroos said.

"I tackled him on the floor until the police came," he told the BBC. "When he was running, he said, 'I want to kill more people. I want to kill more Muslims.' "

The driver was subdued by the outraged group, but one of the mosque imams appealed for calm, possibly sparing him serious harm.

"We found a group of people quickly started to collect around him, around the assailant. And some tried to hit him, either kicks or punches," Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, of the Muslim Welfare House, told reporters. "By God's grace we managed to surround him and to protect him from any harm. We stopped all forms of attack and abuse toward him that were coming from every angle."

He said he then flagged down a passing police car and told the officers: "There's a mob attempting to hurt him. If you don't take him, God forbid he might be seriously hurt."

Rana, who witnessed the incident, said the attacker tried to taunt onlookers as he was arrested.

"He said, 'I'd do it again,' " Rana said. "It was a premeditated attack. He picked this area well, and he knows Finsbury Park is predominantly a Muslim area."

Many Muslims feared possible copycat attaks, urging extra security for mosques and other sites. East London Mosque, one of the city's largest, said it was evacuated on Monday after receiving a fake bomb threat.

Neil Basu, a London police official, told reporters the case was being treated as a terrorist attack. The suspect was arrested on terrorism charges as well as attempted murder.

British Prime Minister Theresa May met with members of the Muslim community even as they denounced a rising climate of anti-Islamic sentiment. Her response contrasted with her handling of a deadly fire in London last week, when she was widely criticized for not meeting survivors on the first day of the disaster.

This was the third attack in London this year involving vehicles, and it came a month after a suicide bombing in Manchester killed 23 people and injured more than 100.

May described Monday's attack as "every bit as sickening" as those that have come before. She also hailed the "bravery" of those who detained the driver at the scene.

"Hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed," she said.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan, the city's first Muslim mayor, called the incident a "horrific terrorist attack," which was "clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

"While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect," he said in a statement.

Saadiq Mizou, a 35-year-old chef originally from Belgium, said the attack had made him reconsider whether he could go to the mosques in Finsbury Park again.

"Twenty days in a row I've been here," he said. "Nothing happened. It's all going good. People are eating, doing charity, doing things like helping people, praying and then going home. That's it. And now that's happening? We're not safe. If I stay here, people could come and attack me with a car.

"It's better to be safe and stay at home," Mizou said. "Simple."

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The Washington Post's Adam Taylor in London and Brian Murphy in Washington contributed to this report.

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Video: One person has been arrested after a van struck pedestrians outside of Finsbury Park Mosque in London in the early hours of Monday, June 19, leaving several casualties. (Amber Ferguson/The Washington Post)

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WASHINGTON - Top executives from Apple, Amazon.com, Microsoft, Google and other Silicon Valley titans met with President Donald Trump on Monday as the White House kicked off an effort to improve the federal government's digital services for everyday Americans.

From upgrading slow, outdated websites to streamlining how veterans receive their health benefits, the administration said it wanted to hear ideas from leaders including Apple chief executive Tim Cook, Amazon chief executive Jeffrey P. Bezos (who also owns The Washington Post), Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella and Eric Schmidt, the executive chairman of Google's parent, Alphabet. One notable absence was that of Facebook, which did not participate reportedly because of scheduling conflicts.

Monday's gathering was the most closely watched assemblage of tech luminaries since Trump met with industry chief executives at Trump Tower in New York in December. Like the Obama administration, Trump's White House has been looking for ways to use technology to streamline government and supercharge its features for citizens. With many of the companies in the room having pioneered data-driven business practices, the White House is hoping some of that expertise will rub off.

Trump met with execs at 5 p.m. after several hours of workshops on cybersecurity, cloud computing and the recruitment of talent from the private sector, according to the day's prepared agenda. High-skilled immigration, a longtime priority for the industry, received special attention, as did drones, robots and the growing connectivity of everyday devices such as thermostats.

"Our goal is to lead a sweeping transformation of the federal government's technology that will deliver dramatically better services for citizens," Trump said as he opened the meeting. "We're embracing big change, bold thinking, and outsider perspectives."

The government could save as much as $1 trillion over 10 years by upgrading the government's technology, according to senior administration officials. As part of that push, more than 6,000 federal data centers could be consolidated, Jared Kushner, Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law, said in remarks Monday afternoon ahead of the meeting. Some of the government's oldest technology systems, Kushner added, are 39 to 56 years old. The Pentagon has continued to use floppy disks - years after many consumers stopped - to manage its nuclear arsenal.

The tech execs touched on familiar themes during the public portion of the meeting, with Cook calling for making coding a mandatory part of the U.S. education system and Nadella focusing on the value of immigration. Others, including Oracle chief executive Safra Catz and Palantir co-founder Peter Thiel, praised Trump effusively. Bezos said it was "impossible to overstate" artificial intelligence and its future importance.

But while the substance of the day's agenda may have been focused on wonky policy issues, some in the tech industry went into the meeting acutely aware of a tension that has become more pronounced since that early winter meeting. For months, Trump has been making decisions that cut against Silicon Valley's business interests and challenge its largely progressive slant on social issues. His travel ban in late January affecting several Muslim-majority countries wound up preventing tech workers from entering the United States, while his decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement deeply wounded tech leaders who view climate change as a major priority. Tesla chief executive Elon Musk decided to stop advising Trump over the issue.

According to the administration, Trump's call on the Paris agreement hasn't dampened the White House's relationship with Silicon Valley, senior officials said Friday, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss Monday's closed-door session. But many in the tech industry appear to disagree, particularly rank-and-file employees who have called for strong public denunciations of the administration's climate-change stance.

"I think a lot of people are discouraged, to say the least, by what we've seen," said Julie Samuels, the executive director of Tech: NYC, a group that represents New York-based tech firms. "In this political climate, the best hope for getting things done are the things that don't make a lot of headlines."

That may include some of the issues on Monday's agenda, such as streamlining federal procurement policy and raising the profile of public-private partnerships. The White House also asked companies whether they would support more leaves of absence for engineers and other employees so they can join the government for temporary tours of duty there, much in the way Barack Obama brought in experts from Google to help fix HealthCare.gov.

Still, Silicon Valley's wariness of the Trump administration prompted some in the industry to say that the day-long series of flashy CEO workshops was mostly for show - and no substitute for simply doing the work.

"The whole belief that you're going to bring these high-level thinkers to a table for an hour or two and have them solve all these things is at the heart of what this administration's problems are," said one tech industry official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the topic more freely. "As Trump has said, 'Who knew health care could be so difficult?' Well, who knew that cloud infrastructure could be so difficult? Who knew that Big Data could be so difficult? They're all about the scalps in the room."
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A Fort Worth man is in jail after being arrested in an undercover prostitution sting in Waco for the second time.

Robert Justin Cousin Jr., 29, and Atitana Charlaine Hardin, 23, were arrested Thursday on charges of engaging in organized crime after they contacted an undercover McLennan County Sheriff's Office detective to set up a prostitution deal with a woman, according to an affidavit acquired by the Waco Tribune-Herald.

MASSAGE PARLOR: Woman at north Harris County massage parlor arrested, charged with prostitution

In the police document, Detective Joseph Scaramucci states that Cousin and Hardin were "doing the communicating and negotiation for the victim in this case, as well as providing security through screening for law enforcement."

The undercover detective made contact with Cousin and Hardin's prostitution victim at a Knights Inn hotel. As Scaramucci spoke to the woman, Cousin and Hardin were arrested in the parking lot outside, according to the affidavit.

Police chose not to identify the woman being prostituted to the public, as she was not arrested and is now being aided by an organization that helps victims of human trafficking, according to the Waco-Tribune-Herald.

PROSTITUTION STING: 11 arrested in North Texas human trafficking

Scaramucci's affidavit also said "that during a prior sting operation, I made contact with both Cousin and Hardin. During that interaction, Hardin was being pimped by Cousin and during subsequent search warrants I observed him to be recruiting women for prostitution."

In the incident described by the undercover detective that occurred last year, Cousin was arrested and charged with promotion of prostitution.

Cousin and Hardin are currently housed inside the McLennan County Jail with a bound amount of $30,000 and $10,000 respectively.

Click through above to see a by the numbers look at human trafficking in Texas.
As the South Texas sun glared down Saturday, Nicole and Lucky seemed to enjoy splashing and spraying water over themselves from the fresh water pool in their newly enlarged elephant habitat at the San Antonio Zoo.

They meandered through the area, walking over a softer layer of sand and soil, sometimes standing in the shade created by overhanging foliage, joined by Karen, the third elephant at the zoo.

Its a more pleasant space for the three Asian elephants, something the Animal League Defense Fund and other elephant advocates have long sought. The organization acknowledges that the zoo has made favorable changes, but they say its not enough to stop their two-year-old lawsuit against the zoo, which recently received a boost when a federal judge ruled a trial set for October will go on.

In early June, U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez agreed with the zoo on several of the lawsuits claims and dismissed them. But he disagreed on others, ruling that the defense fund had produced enough evidence to call for a trial on its claims that the zoo is harming Lucky because shelter from the sun is inadequate in the elephants enclosure and the substrate in inappropriate for elephants, contributing to an abnormal gait and possible arthritis.

We are pleased that the court agreed that there are no issues of material fact that would support two of the plaintiffs' four claims, said zoo spokesman Chuck Cureau. While we are disappointed that the court did not grant summary judgment on all claims, we look forward to proving that the plaintiffs' remaining claims are without merit at trial.

The San Antonio Zoo remains firm in our commitment to these majestic animals as the case continues. ALDFs statement that their meritless and expensive litigation has somehow helped or pushed San Antonio Zoo into making changes is untrue.

Trial is set for Oct. 2.

The original lawsuit, filed in December 2015, alleged the zoo was harming Lucky by keeping her alone because elephants are social animals and need companionship, among the other claims. She had been the zoos sole pachyderm since 2013, when her longtime companion, Boo, died.

Rodriguez ruled that point is moot, since the zoo has brought in two new companions for Lucky. Last June, 40-year-old Nicole, a former performing elephant with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey circus, joined Lucky. Two months later, the zoo added Karen, a 47-year-old Asian elephant that had been with Nicole at the circus.

Cureau said bringing in the elephants to accompany Lucky, who has spent most of her 57 years at the San Antonio Zoo, wasnt prompted by the suit. He noted that, since 2014, under the leadership of CEO Tim Morrow, the zoo has invested more than $5 million in animal habitat upgrades across the entire property.

Our elephant habitat exceeds standards set by our accrediting institutions, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Zoological Association of America, Cureau said. San Antonio Zoo's animal care programs also are recognized as Humane Certified by American Humane, the first national humane organization in America and the worlds largest certifier of the welfare and humane treatment of animals in working and other environments.

The ALDF filed the lawsuit in 2015 on behalf of three San Antonians who alleged that the Asian elephant had endured physical and psychological damage in a habitat not suited for her well-being.

The international law firm Dentons LLP and Melissa Lesniak, a San Antonio-based animal welfare and criminal attorney, are providing pro bono legal assistance.

Since the lawsuit was filed, the zoo has added more trees for shade and built a walk-in entryway to the pool, which is now large enough for Lucky to completely submerge herself, if she so chooses.

Over the years, animal rights activists have sponsored petitions and held protests for Lucky to be moved to a sanctuary. Zoo officials have said they were concerned that in an unfamiliar environment, the older Asian elephant could be bullied. They also were concerned that the trip, which would involve hefting Lucky up and into a crate, could cause serious injury or even kill her.

vtdavis@express-news.net
1 Afghanistan attack: The Taliban stormed a police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan on Sunday after striking it with two suicide car bombs, killing at least five officers, authorities said. Another nine police officers and nine civilians were wounded in the attack in the town of Gardez, said a spokesman for the police chief of Paktia province. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement. Sundays attack came a day after an Afghan commando fired on U.S. troops, wounding seven American soldiers. A week earlier, a Taliban infiltrator killed three U.S. troops in eastern Afghanistan.

2 Greenland tsunami: Four people were reported missing Sunday in Greenland after an earthquake off the Arctic islands west coast triggered a tsunami that flooded a village. The Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland said the magnitude-4.0 quake late Saturday struck northwestern Greenland near the village of Nuugaatsiaq. Surging water was reported to have destroyed 11 buildings there. Greenland public broadcaster KNR said police evacuated 40 people from Nuugaatsiaq. In addition to those missing, it said nine people were injured, two seriously. Experts said the quake likely triggered a landslide into the sea, resulting in the tsunami and flooding.
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In just under three weeks time well-known principal of Gaelscoil Longfoirt Yvonne Ni Mhurchu will resign from her position so that she can take up a new role within the Department of Education and Skills.

The Newtownforbes native has been at the heart of Irish language education in this county since the inception of Gaelscoil Longfoirt back in 1998.

She has been there since the very beginning and it is a place that will always remain very dear to her heart, as she says herself.

Married to Michael, the couple have one daughter Doireann who is also a pupil of Gaelscoil Longfoirt.

When Ms Ni Mhurchu was appointed principal of the school 20 years ago her appointment was made on a Tuesday and she and her husband Michael were married the following Thursday - just two days later.

She was also at the helm of the school when she and Micheal successfully adopted their adored daughter and again when her beloved father Peter died nearly six years ago.

No matter what was happening in Ms Ni Mhurchus life, Gaelscoil Longfoirt was there keeping her grounded.

The decision to leave and start something new was not an easy one to make, but the Longford woman is now looking forward to the new challenges that lie ahead in her new role as Primary District Inspector which will start on September 1 next.

Gaelscoil Longfoirt started out with 20 students at Harbour Row in Longford town and as the numbers expanded - and its no exaggeration to say that Gaelscoil Longfoirt went from strength to strength with each passing year - a purpose built prefabricated building was developed at Slashers Complex on the outskirts of Longford town.

Now there is almost 200 students at the Gaelscoil, from all backgrounds and religions, making it one of the most inclusive Irish language primary schools in the country.

There are also 12 teachers with the possibility of more come September.

None of this, says Ms Ni Mhurchu would have happened were it not for the hard work and dedication of so many people.

The position of Primary District Inspector within the Department of Education came up nationally and the local and very well known principal decided to throw her hat into the ring.

Why not? She thought, if I dont do this now, I might never get the opportunity again!

However, deep down she didnt believe she would get the job, and, so when the letter of congratulations came in the post, the Newtownforbes native and mother of one found herself having to make some serious decisions.

It took me about three months to reflect, think about it and weigh up the pros and cons, she smiled as she recalled those weeks in the aftermath of the job offer.

When I decided to take the position I was notified that it would commence on September 1.

I announced it then to the school community - board of management, staff, parents and students just after Easter.

She says that by doing that when she did, she afforded everyone the opportunity to get used to the idea that she was leaving, while at the same time ensuring that she wasnt going to disappear off the face of the earth and would continue to work through the whole process with them.

I will be handing over to a new principal when the holidays begin in about three weeks time and I believe it will be a smooth transition, she continued before adding that her new job would include the inspectorate of all primary schools in Ireland, not just Gaelscoileanna.

This includes all boys schools, Educate Together schools; junior schools, senior schools, all girls schools, gaelscoil, Church of Ireland schools; special schools, etc and this will take me into a whole new realm and a whole new experience.

This, adds Ms Ni Mhurchu is something that she is looking forward to, despite what she will be leaving behind.

I am really looking forward to learning more about special education as well as other models of education; for me this is a learning curve as well and I am also looking forward to seeing good practice and how things are done in other schools, she added.

Its exciting really.

Meanwhile, it has been an incredible journey for Gaelscoil Longfoirt and for Yvonne Ni Mhurchu whose daughter Doireann is a 2nd class pupil at the school.

We have always celebrated the successes of the school along the way, but there has been some very bumpy parts along that road, she explained, before pointing out that from little acorns mighty oaks do grow.

We started out with 20 students - that was the magic number needed back in 1998 to open a Gaelscoil.

We got fabulous support from parents for Gaelscoil Longfoirt from day one and it would not be the success it is today without that support.

The door has always been open between myself and the parents and I hope going forward that same ethos will reign.

Ms Ni Mhurchu adds that research has already proven that when parents are involved in the education of their children, there are better outcomes for those children. I have seen that first hand at Gaelscoil Longfoirt, she smiled, and one thing she is very proud of is the inclusive nature that has become Gaelscoil Longfoirt.

This she says is unique to Gaelscoils in general and means Longfords school bucks the national trend.

Many feel there is an elitist element to Gaelscoileanna and Ms Ni Mhurchu is quick to point out that while, yes, this is the case in many parts of the country, it is not the trend in Longford.

In Gaelscoil Longfoirt we are inclusive, as are all gaelscoileanna, but Gaelscoil Longfoirt is representative of our community here in Longford town and county, she continued.

Because Gaelscoil Longfoirt is the only one of its kind in Longford it draws children from all over the county and not just from Longford town.

We have members of the travelling community, members of the international communities, Longford town born and bred; we have people that have moved to the area from other parts of the country and indeed the world, so our school is a very, very inclusive school.

It is not at all elitist and everyone is treated the same.

She says that the purpose of gaelsoilenna is to ensure that children become bilingual and with bilingualism there are many, many advantages, she adds.

I am very happy now that I will be a mammy and a parent at Gaelscoil Longfoirt after this and I will be able to help out like the other parents and mammies.

Gaelscoil Longfoirt will always be very dear to my heart. This year Gaelscoil Longfoirt was awarded DEIS status and this means that new opportunities and further inclusion will happen as a direct result of the new status.

There will also be an increase in staff numbers, smaller class sizes, larger budgets for numeracy and literacy projects and a strengthening of further links between the home school liaison officer and the students homes.

All of this will hugely benefit us at the Gaelscoil and we are all looking forward to implementing that, Ms Ni Mhurchuconcluded.
The death occurred on May 7, 2017 of Mary Farrell, who for over forty years made a profound impact on education and latterly the development of education in Co Longford.

Mary Farrell grew up in Esker, Killoe and was one of James and Mary Brady's three daughters. From an early age, her desire to pursue a career was obvious and she was in the vanguard of new and empowered Irish women, who were determined to attain a University Degree and subsequently leave an indelible stamp on their communities.

For Mary that journey took her to University College Galway and with her studies completed, she returned to take up a teaching post with Longford VEC at the Vocational school in Ballymahon.

Throughout her career she taught mainly mathematics and science and was remembered as a kind and conscientious teacher, who went out of her way to peel back the oft times mystique and challenge of those particular subjects for so many students, who might otherwise have floundered.

Her approach to teaching was simple, she wanted her students to learn and she left no stone unturned in her efforts to ensure that each student reached their potential.

She knew well the challenges facing some students were not always academic and often times a challenging home environment was impeding a student's development. On many occasions, Mary Farrell was a helping ear and an invaluable mentor and confidante to students who might otherwise have easily slipped through the proverbial cracks in the system.

Her return to Co Longford would also coincide with her marriage to Pat Farrell and the couple made their home together on the family farm at Carnan, Ardagh.

After a short while in Ballymahon, Mary transferred to Longford town via Granard VS, teaching first at the old Vocational School on the Battery Road and then what we now know as Templemichael Community College and was subsequently appointed to the role of Assistant Principal. She was a highly respected member of the teaching staff and the esteem in which her peers held her was reflected in the large numbers from the profession who journeyed from all over the country to pay their final respects.

She was a person to whom colleagues could turn to for counsel and objective insight. She had a great grasp of the education system and the often overpowering political complexities that went with it and there was nobody better placed to cut to the chase and make the abstract seem perfectly normal than the late Mary Farrell.

With a stellar teaching career behind her Mary Farrell was appointed to the role of Adult Education Officer (AEO) in 2003 and remained in the role up until her retirement in November 2014.

She was the perfect candidate for the role and during her time in the office emphasised the need to make education and training opportunities accessible and available for all. She threw herself into the role and clearly revelled in it as second chance education became readily and easily available across the county.

She played a key role in the early development and implementation of the Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) training programme locally. The benefits of that involvement are clear to be seen today with a network of course opportunities in place across the county. For many these courses are the stepping-stone into skilled employment whilst others have used it as the platform to go onto further education. Together with the then CEO of Longford VEC, Josephine O'Donnell, she was also instrumental in securing a large tract of the Connolly Barracks site from the Department and this now forms the basis of the county's impressive adult and further training campus.

She believed passionately in the need to ensure equality of opportunity for all but especially women and she threw herself into the development of Longford Women's Link. She was an enthusiastic board member from the outset and her fingerprints are very evident on an organisation that today strives to ensure equality of opportunity for women in Co Longford.

She fervently believed in the maxim that knowledge was power and was also member of the start-up board for Longford Citizens Information Service (CIS) and her early direction, experience and insight helped establish it as one of the benchmark centres for the CIS movement in Ireland.

She served on the old VEC committee as the staff representative in Co Longford for a number of years and was never afraid to articulate her views and take issue with the establishment.

Even after her retirement in November 2014, Mary continued to sit on the board of management at Ballymahon Vocational School and would have continued to attend meetings up until Christmas. She was fiercely proud of the school's progress and excited for the future.

Over the years the Farrell family have been very deeply involved in the local community and particularly with St Patrick's GFC. Notwithstanding the ties with the Ardagh club, she retained a deep and strongly held passion and love for her native Killoe.

She was a loyal and steadfast neighbour and having spent a lifetime in education her advice was regularly sought out by parents and teenagers as they grappled with deciding which course and career path to choose.

There were two aspects to Mary Farrell's life. One was very public and wrapped up in the county's education system. However, perhaps the most fulfilling second aspect to this very full life was back at home in Carnan, as wife to Pat and mother to Rory, Emer, Orla, Enda and Kevin. More recent years heralded the arrival of her grandchildren and there is no doubt that Mary was happiest when Alice, Oliver, Charlie and Louis were in close proximity. Through a very difficult illness nothing gave her greater pleasure than the sound of little voices and laughter in the Carnan household.

Sadly, Mary's long battle with illness came to a head in early May and she passed away peacefully at the Mater Private Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Her passing is mourned by her husband, Pat; children, Rory, Emer (Hyland), Orla (Fallon), Enda and Kevin; grandchildren, Alice, Oliver, Charlie and Louis; her sisters Eileen (McManus) and Catherine (Brady), sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, her extended family and many dear friends and teaching colleagues. Her remains reposed at the family home and were brought to St Brigid's Church, Ardagh for Funeral Mass with interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Local News, Community, Charity & Cause

By Chris Boyle Published: June 19 2017

Syosset resident receives prestigious FAA Award.

Sayville, NY - June 15, 2017 - Civil Air Patrol 1st Lt. Albert Al C. Cerullo Jr., of Syosset, has been awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for his 50 year record of safe flying with no aviation mishaps by the Federal Aviation Administration. According to the FAA, The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award is the most prestigious award the FAA issues to pilots certified under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61. This award is named after the Wright Brothers, the first US pilots, to recognize individuals who have exhibited professionalism, skill, and aviation expertise for at least 50 years while piloting aircraft as Master Pilots.

Complementing his love of flying, Al has been a member of the Civil Air Patrol since 2009 and currently serves as the aerospace education officer at Civil Air Patrols Bethpage-based Lt. Quentin Roosevelt Cadet Squadron - its commander, C.A.P. 1st Lt. Mark Del Orfano is pictured at right with Al. At different times, Al served as testing officer, cadet activities officer and deputy squadron commander.

While serving as a helicopter pilot with U.S. Armys 176th Assault Helicopter Company during the Vietnam War, Al flew 1,605 combat hours in 241 flying days from 1967 to 1968. During that year of combat flying as a disciplined 23-year-old Chief Warrant Officer Two, Al had earned many decorations and recognitions, including the Distinguish Flying Cross, the Air Medal with multiple citations, and the Purple Heart. After returning from overseas, he was able to achieve his instrument instructor rating and accumulated over 35 years of flight experience with over 25,000 hours.

As of late, Al currently runs Hover-Views Unlimited, an aerial cinematography service, catering mainly to the New York metropolitan area. According to HoverViews.com, the company website, his numerous credits include breathtaking cinematography in film, television and commercials. Additionally, Al is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, a founding member of the Motion Picture Pilots Association and is a recipient of the 2009 Society of Camera Operators Lifetime Achievement Award.

Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Forces Total Force, which consists of regular Air Force, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, along with Air Force retired military and civilian employees.

C.A.P., in its Total Force role, operates a fleet of 550 aircraft and performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 78 lives annually. C.A.P.s 56,000 members nationwide also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. Its members additionally play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to more than 24,000 young people currently participating in the C.A.P. cadet program.

Performing missions for America for the past 75 years, C.A.P. received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014 in honor of the heroic efforts of its World War II veterans. C.A.P. also participates in Wreaths Across America, an initiative to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans. Visit www.capvolunteernow.com for more information.

Long Island Group Civil Air Patrol is headquartered on the grounds of Long Island MacArthur Airport. For more information, please visit the Groups website at http://lig.nywg.cap.gov.
Two Men Arrested in Connection with Multiple Burglaries in Nassau County, Cops Say

Local News, Crime

By Long Island News & PR Published: June 19 2017

Jordan Jackson of Uniondale, 20, and Tayawon Anderson of Hempstead, 19, charged with Burglary, Grand Larceny, and Possession of Stolen Property.

NCPD reports the arrests of (left) Jordan Jackson of Uniondale, 20, and (right) Tayawon Anderson of Hempstead, 19, for Burglaries which occurred in Nassau County.

Nassau County, NY - June 19, 2017 - The Major Case Bureau reports the arrest of a The Major Case Bureau reports the arrest of a Uniondale man for Burglaries which occurred in June 2017 in Nassau County

According to detectives, the Burglary Pattern Team along with the First Squad arrested Jordan Jackson, 20, in connection with the following burglaries:

On Thursday, June 8, at 04:00 am he entered a residence at Richmond Road, East Meadow and took Audi A4 car keys. The defendant then stole the victims 2006 Audi A4.

On Sunday, June 11, at 03:00 am he entered a residence at Fenimore Place, Baldwin and took Honda Pilot car keys. The defendant then stole the victims 2004 Honda Pilot.

On Friday, June 16, at 02:26 am he entered a residence at Clinton Avenue, Uniondale and took Nissan Versa car keys. The defendant then stole the victims 2008 Nissan Versa.

After an extensive investigation, Jackson and Tayawon Anderson, 19, of Hempstead , were located on W. Roosevelt Avenue, Uniondale inside of a stolen 2008 Nissan Versa. Both men were arrested.

Defendant Jackson is charged with three (3) counts of Burglary 2nd degree, Grand Larceny 3rd degree and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 3rd degree.

Defendant Anderson is charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 3rd degree and Petit Larceny for an unrelated open warrant. They were arraigned on Sunday, June 18, 2017 at First District Court in Hempstead.
On Sunday, Iranian outlets reported that their countrys Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Aerospace Force (IRGC-AF) fired several missiles against Takfiri terrorists in the Syrian governorate of Deir ez-Zor. The strikes were reportedly retaliatory in nature, in response to the Islamic States twin terrorist attacks in Tehran earlier in June [see Long War Journal report]. According to a press release by the public relations arm of the IRGC, the Guard Corps vowed to never leave unanswered the spilling of the blood of the pure.

That same press release specified that Iran fired several mid-range surface-to-surface missiles from IRGC-AF bases in Kordestan and Kermanshah provinces, both of which are located in the western portion of Iran and are close to the Iraqi border. To reach Deir el-Zor in eastern Syria, the missiles flight-path would have had to include Iraq. It is an estimated 650 kilometers from Kermanshah, Iran, to Deir ez-Zor, Syria.

The Islamic Republics semi-official Fars News Agency carried video of the purported missile launches.

Fars News Agency also ran a headline confirming the type of missile Iran fired: the Zulfiqar. The Zulfiqar is a single-stage solid-fueled short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) that supposedly upgrades the range and accuracy of the Fateh-110 family of SRBMs. In 2012, CNN reported that the Assad regime had used the Iranian-made Fateh-110 in Syria. Unveiled at a military parade in September 2016, the Zulfiqar was first tested in the fall of 2016 [see FDDs analysis of the first Zulfiqar missile test].

Similarly, Irans Tasnim News Agency, a semi-official outlet believed to be close to the IRGC, produced an infographic alleging six Zulfiqar class missiles were fired at Deir ez-Zor, which they called, One of the main command-centers of the terrorists in eastern Syria.

But not all outlets have reported this claim. The Times of Israel reported an assertion made by a Channel 10 news broadcast which cited an Israeli intelligence source that believed Iran fired a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) called the Shahab-3. The Shahab-3 is a nuclear-capable liquid-fueled MRBM that is based on the North Korean Nodong-A.

Both the Shahab-3 and the Zulfiqar are ballistic missiles and belong to the IRGC-AF. The IRGC-AF is the military branch that oversees the entirety of Tehrans ballistic missile arsenal. According to the former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, the Islamic Republics ballistic missile arsenal was assessed to be the largest in the region. Since inking the 2015 nuclear deal, Iran has launched up to 14 ballistic missiles [see FDDs analysis here], and in March Iran test-fired two anti-ship ballistic missiles. It has not fired any surface-to-surface ballistic missiles since being put on-notice by The White House in February 2017 until now.

While several English-language outlets have re-reported the event, Iranian press reporting remains the main source providing credence to the IRGCs claims. The IRGC press release touted that A large number of the terrorists perished and their equipment and arms were destroyed. Absent on-the-ground reporting from Syria, this assessment will remain difficult to verify.

Lastly, it is worth noting that Iran has incentives to overstate its military capabilities and the battlefield effectiveness of its growing conventional missile force. However, if the missile launches were genuinely successful, this overt show of force will serve to significantly bolster the regimes deterrence. Given the timing of the move, the launch could also have been part of a larger strategy to signal resolve to both Irans regional and global adversaries.

Update: The location of the IRGC bases in Iran were updated to reflect their correct cardinal direction. The previous direction was due to a typographical error.

Behnam Ben Taleblu is a senior Iran analyst at Foundation for Defense of Democracies

Behnam Ben Taleblu is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

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The US military shot down a Syrian fighter bomber yesterday after it attacked Syrian Democratic Forces in a town recently liberated from the Islamic State. The incident is part of the growing US escalation and involvement in Syrias civil war as the Islamic States territory in Syria is shrinking and US allies are coming into contact with Syrian forces and its allies, including Russia, Iran, and a host of Shiite militias that are hostile to the US.

US Central Command, or CENTCOM, documented the engagement in a press release. According to CENTCOM, A US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian SU-22 fighter-bomber after it attacked Syrian Democratic Forces south of the town of Tabqa. The US military downed the Syrian warplane in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of Coalition partnered forces.

Prior to the engagement, the US attempted to warn the Syrian military using an established deconfliction line' with Russia. Pro-Syrian government forces were fighting the SDF in JaDin, which is two kilometers north of an established East-West SDF-Syrian Regime de-confliction area.

Russias Ministry of Defense responded by shutting down the deconfliction hotline and warning that all US aircraft may now be considered hostile targets.

In the areas of combat missions of Russian air fleet in Syrian skies, any airborne objects, including aircraft and unmanned vehicles of the international coalition, located to the west of the Euphrates River, will be tracked by Russian ground and air defense forces as air targets, a statement released by the Russian Ministry of Defense declared.

US coming into direct confrontation with Syria and its allies

Over the past several months, the US military has come in closer contact with the Syrian regime and its allies as all sides seek to capitalize on the the Islamic States shrinking control of territory. This has put the US military, which is backing anti-government forces, in direct conflict with Syria and its allies.

The US military has attacked pro-Syrian regime militias, including some Shiite military from Iraq, in the At Tanf area near the Jordanian border, three times since mid-May. The US is training militias to battle the Islamic State at a base in At Tanf, while the militias seek to control the border crossing and lines of communication to Deir al Zour in order to regain control of the Euphrates River Valley from the Islamic State.

While the US military has insisted its mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria and does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, it reiterated that it will not hesitate to defend Coalition or partner forces from any threat.

This stance indicates that the US mission in Syria is dangerously morphing from a counterterrorism action against the Islamic State into a party to Syrias civil war.

Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal.

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SPRINGFIELD -- Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company has put Tower Square, including the adjacent Marriott hotel, up for sale after having developed the property and owned it for more than 45 years.

James Lacey, vice president of media relations at the Springfield-based insurance giant, said the decision was reached Monday.

He said this is not a lessening of MassMutual's commitment to the city, but instead an investment decision and a recognition that the property has gained value as Springfield has developed and is developing.

The city of Springfield has the whole complex assessed at $34.2 million.

"The contract to manage the Springfield Marriott is reaching its end and downtown Springfield is experiencing an increase in economic development," Lacey said. "These factors provided us with an opportunity to review the properties and lead to our decision to market Tower Square and the Springfield Marriott for sale."

The Marriott contract with MassMutual ends in December.

Lacey said no decision has been made on either a broker for the property or on an asking price. He said the price will be negotiated with a buyer or buyers who may have interest in one or both of the properties -- meaning Tower Square and the hotel.

As part of the transition, the Marriott will get a new name in July: The Tower Square Hotel Springfield.

All the complex's other leases and contracts will remain in place, Lacey said, and Tower Square will continue to be managed by CBRE New England.

The planned sale is the latest sign the real estate market in Springfield may be heating up, with MGM Resorts International planning to open its $950 million MGM Springfield resort casino in September 2018.

For example, Balise Motor Sales has purchased $3.1 million in real estate in the South End since April 2016.

MassMutual sold its conference center in Chicopee last month after being approached by a potential buyer.

Tower Square was completed in 1971 on a 4-acre block at the intersection of Bridge and Main streets in downtown Springfield. MassMutual built Tower Square in cooperation with civic and business leaders interested in sparking a downtown resurgence.

Tower Square has 1.6 million square feet of space -- about the same size as Holyoke Mall at Ingleside. At Tower Square, 370,000 square feet of space is in the 28-floor office tower. The "mall" portion of Tower Square totals 180,000 square feet. Tower Square also contains a parking garage and the 265-room Marriott Hotel.

The complex was known as Baystate West until 1996 and is connected by pedestrian bridges to Monarch Place, City Stage and the former federal building at 1550 Main St.

At one time, the Tower Square Mall was home to stores like A.O. White and U.S. Factory Outlet store and was connected by pedestrian bridges to Springfield's stalwart department stores, Forbes & Wallace and Steiger's.

Today, the complex is mostly home to office space, with only a few retailers including a CVS drugstore, Lorilil Jewelers, a newsstand, Dunkin' Donuts, Hot Table restaurant and branch offices of both Westfield Bank and Syracuse-based Community Bank, the Colony Club and a Food Court.

Educational institutions are now major tenants. Cambridge College opened in 2013 where a factory outlet once was. The University of Massachusetts opened its 27,321 square-foot satellite office on the mall's second floor for the 2014-15 academic year.

The office tower is still heavily occupied, with more than 1,100 workers on site each day.

Office tenants include MassMutual itself, which occupies all or parts of 10 office floors occupied with subsidiary Barings Capital. MassMutual moved some operations downtown from its headquarters on State Street in 2001.

Those operations, according to Lacey, will remain downtown.

Other tenants include law firms and financial services providers.

Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said he's discussed the impending sale with MassMutual and has been assured the move does not mean a decline in the company's commitment to Springfield, in terms of business or philanthropy.

"Massmutual, as they have been for 166 years, is very bullish on Springfield," he said. "They feel the market is very strong."

"This opens up other possibilities," he added.

He remembers Tower Square, then Baystate West, as a retail destination and says a pendulum may be swinging. Suburban malls hurt downtown shopping. Now the suburban malls are suffering and, possibly, people are looking to live, work and spend money in cities once again.
BOSTON - Boston police investigators are trying to figure out who shot two women as they sat in a car on Arcadia Street in the Dorchester section of the city Sunday morning.

WHDH-TV reported that police arrived at the scene at about 3 a.m. Sunday morning to find two women suffering gunshot wounds.

The woman were transported to the Boston Medical Center, where their conditions are unknown.

Police collected evidence at the scene, where several bullet holes could be seen in the windshield of the car the woman had occupied.

Police so far have no motive for the shooting.

Just four hours earlier, and 30 miles away, two women were shot as they attended a party on Copeland Street in Brockton.

Both of the teenage women were hit in the legs, a 19-year-old woman twice. her 18-year-old friend was hit once in the thigh in the 11 p.m. shooting.

Both women were transported to the Boston Medical Center. Their conditions are unknown.
The rifles for purchase at Dick's Sporting Goods - and many other stores selling guns - are not easy to access. There is an intricate process that goes into storing, locking and recording the number of guns in a given store.

That understanding, combined with the general danger a firearm can present, caused a massive stir in Saugus Monday morning, when a slew of state and local authorities responded to report of a gun theft at the Square One Mall.

Saugus Police ended a large-scale search when officers arrested a 16-year-old male in his Everett home Monday afternoon, after authorities spent more than seven hours searching the mall. The teen was charged with breaking and entering during the nighttime to commit a felony, malicious destruction of property over $250 for the store window he smashed, and larceny of a firearm. Officers matched the teen suspect with the person they briefly encountered at Dick's earlier in the morning, as well as mall surveillance video.

Police are still searching for the stolen weapon, which they believe was taken from the inventory of the store, according to a statement released late Monday afternoon by Saugus Police Chief Domenic J. DiMella.

The Square One Mall in Saugus was placed on lockdown as a SWAT team and K9 units swept through the complex searching for the suspect. Mall employees spent much of their mornings waiting outside in the heat to see if they would have to go back to work.

One of the employees watching police from a mall parking lot was a worker at Dick's Sporting Goods. The employee, who wished to remain anonymous, worked as an associate in the store's second-floor gun department known as "the lodge" for eight years. The worker had an 8 a.m. shift Monday morning and said Dick's Sporting Goods did not notify him of the lockdown.

"If there's a gun missing, that blows my mind," the worker said. According to the employee, there is a nightly process for securing and counting the number of rifles in the store.

"At night, all guns are counted, recorded in a computer system, and counted again the morning," the employee said. "We are very careful about how we lock them ... I wouldn't want to be that employee who forgot to lock that rack."

The nearly 100 guns on display are separated by multiple security "burglar bars," which guard sections of about six guns at a time, according to the veteran Dick's employee. The worker said that the only way a person could get to the gun was by having a key or breaking a lock.

Dick's Sporting Goods did not immediately return a call for comment.

Saugus Police Chief Domenic J. DiMella initially told reporters on Monday that the teen suspect was able to bend a security bar that guarded the guns. A statement released Monday afternoon only said that the gun was likely taken from the store's inventory. It is unclear if the stolen gun was guarded in the same fashion as guns on display inside the store.

Saugus Police say they will continue their investigation and search for the missing weapon.
Saugus Police have arrested a 16-year-old male suspect at his home in Everett, bringing an end to a police search Monday morning that shut down the Square One Mall in Saugus.

In a press conference, Saugus Police Chief Domenic J. DiMella said the teen was seen holding a weapon at Dick's Sporting Goods early Monday morning and it was unclear if he had dropped it while escaping the building. Police said they are still looking for the gun that was stolen.

Surveillance video inside the mall helped police identify the teen suspect who was arrested later Monday morning in Everett.

The arrest followed a chaotic morning at the Square One Mall. Authorities spent more than six hours sweeping through and searching the entire complex for the suspect and evidence. Police from Saugus, Melrose and Wakefield were joined by state police and a regional SWAT team to search the facility for the person who managed to steal a rifle and ammunition from a typically secured sporting store.

Mall employees waiting around parking lots in the muggy heat were sent home by their employers around noontime. Shortly before 1:30 p.m., Area Mall Manager Mike Connell announced that the mall had re-opened, though specific retailers may open at different times. Dick's Sporting Goods remained closed for the day.

The teen suspect reportedly smashed a window and stole one of the store's long guns and some ammunition. The intrusion happened sometime before 4:15 a.m., when Saugus Police were first called to the scene.

Early reports said the suspect was believed to be inside the Dick's Sporting Goods store, but police later said it is unclear where the suspect was. Authorities swept through the entire mall twice, and K9 units searched around the perimeter. A police dog spent a lot of time near an outdoor trash container that is located next to one of several exits to Dick's Sporting Goods.

"If there's a gun missing, that blows my mind," said a Dick's employee who wished to remain anonymous. The employee said they worked in the store's gun department on the second floor, known as "the lodge," for eight years. The worker received no direct notice from Dick's about the break-in, but decided to come inspect the scene after hearing what had happened on television news.

"We are very careful about how we lock them. I wouldn't want to be that employee who forgot to lock that rack," the employee said.

Police said the teen suspect was able to bend a burglar bar that guarded the guns.

Every entrance to the Square One Mall was blocked off by police cars Monday as authorities searched the area. A heavy police presence was still active around noontime.

Nearby Saugus middle and high schools responded with "stay in place" orders, reportedly prompting some parents to come pick up their children. Belmonte Middle School released children early in the day, after cancelling a Moving On ceremony.
AGAWAM -- The Agawam City Council is scheduled to hold a public hearing at 7 this evening at the Roberta G. Doering School, 68 Main St., on a resolution to adopt a Housing Production Plan.

The resolution is sponsored by City Council President James P. Cichetti and Councilor Christopher C. Johnson. The former is a candidate for mayor, while the latter is a former mayor. Cichetti is also chairman of the Agawam Housing Committee.

"This plan is the first step for the town to gain more control over housing development in our community," said Corrine Wingard, coordinator of the Housing Committee. "There is a severe housing shortage in our state, region, and right here in our own town."

Wingard said consultant Jennifer M. Goldson, founder of JM Goldson Community Preservation and Planning in Boston, will summarize the city's Housing Production Plan at the hearing.

The housing plan is a proactive way to "control our own housing destiny," said Wingard, formerly vice chairwoman of the Agawam Housing Committee and a past chairwoman of the Agawam Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.

Because only around 4 percent of Agawam's housing stock is considered affordable, the city is particularly susceptible to affordable or low-income housing projects aimed at boosting Agawam's affordable housing rate to 10 percent, a statewide goal for all cities and towns.

As a result, Way Finders, a Springfield-based nonprofit affordable homebuilding company, is using Chapter 40B, the state's affordable housing law, to build a low-income rental complex at 586 Mill St. Many Agawam residents are opposed to the proposed location for the project.

Chapter 40B allows local zoning boards to circumvent stricter regulations to permit higher-density projects if at least 20-25 percent of the proposed units include long-term affordability restrictions.
The state Civil Service Commission has rejected a petition from the attorney of a Springfield police officer to investigate the legality of the city's civilian police review board.

Attorney Stephen Phillips, whose client Daniel Billingsley is one of the off-duty officers facing disciplinary hearings for his alleged role in a 2015 fight that left a Springfield man concussed with a broken leg and loosened teeth, is arguing that the city's Community Police Hearing Board was wrongfully established by executive order and cannot legally participate in the disciplinary process.

He has launched a multi-front campaign against the board, filing complaints with the Attorney General's Office and the Civil Service Commission and airing his criticisms to the media.

But the Civil Service Commission, which has the authority to overturn firings and discipline if they are found to violate state civil service, law, did not bite on his request to investigate the legality of the CPHB.

"After careful review and consideration, the Commission has concluded that your request, based on the limited information provided, does not warrant the initiation of an investigation as it relates to the civil service law," Civil Service Commission Chairman Christopher Bowman wrote in a May 30 email. "Further, the Commission does not read the civil service law in a way that would prohibit an appointing authority from appointing members of a Civilian Police Review Board to serve as a hearing officer under [civil service law.]"

Phillips is not giving up. On June 14, he sent another letter asking the Civil Service Commission to reconsider its decision, citing a 2008 opinion from then-Hampden District Attorney William Bennett which found that the review board was not a "governmental body" subject to the open meeting law.

"It is our opinion this politically created Advisory Board has violated the rights of dozens of Springfield Police Officers since 2008," Phillips wrote. "Further, we believe the Massachusetts Civil Service statute, whose fundamental purpose is to guard against political considerations, favoritism, and bias in governmental decision-making has been severely compromised. Given the Finding of the District Attorney, we request the Commission revisit our previously outlined concerns in our May 20, 2017 correspondence."

He is also considering filing a complaint in Hampden County Superior Court, he said in an email. His complaint to the Attorney General's Office is still pending.

In his original complaint to the AG, Phillips wrote that the CPHB was illegitimate because it unlawfully gave disciplinary powers to a board appointed by Mayor Domenic Sarno, and that Sarno had no legal authority to issue the executive order that created the board.

He also cited a memo written by City Solicitor Ed Pikula that outlined ways the City Council could take action to "codify and legitimize" the board, arguing that the existence of the memo was evidence the current board was not legitimate.

It is a line of argument that would invalidate a decade of proceedings for complaints against Springfield officers. Former Mayor Charles Ryan established the Community Complaint Review Board by executive order in 2007, and Mayor Domenic Sarno replaced it with his own Community Police Hearing Board in 2010 -- both of which, Phillips said in an interview, violated state civil service law.

"It is our opinion the CPRB lacks jurisdiction to address complaints against Police Officers and is inconsistent with Civil Service law," Phillips wrote in the letter to Attorney General Maura Healey. "Further, it is our view the rights of dozens of Police Officers have been violated."

In April, City Solicitor Ed Pikula defended the legitimacy of the board in an email to MassLive, arguing that the police commissioner has the legal right to appoint disciplinary hearing officers as he sees fit.

"It should be noted that in all matters involving employees of the Springfield Police Department, the Commissioner retains all jurisdiction as the appointing authority for the police department under civil service law and a collective bargaining agreement covers additional terms and conditions of employment," Pikula wrote. "As such, the Police Commissioner is solely responsible for hiring, firing, and discipline. [Massachusetts Civil Service law] provides that the Police Commissioner can appoint a hearing officer to assist him. As such, the Commissioner can appoint whoever he wants to sit as a hearing officer."

Billingsley and several other off-duty officers stand accused of attacking a group of Springfield men following an argument at Nathan Bill's Bar and Restaurant on April 8, 2015. Uniformed officers who were called to the scene also received disciplinary charges over their responses to the incident.

One of the alleged victims filed a civilian complaint in May of 2015, sparking what has become a two-year disciplinary and investigative process.

The police department launched criminal and administrative probes into the incident. The Hampden District Attorney's Office conducted a criminal review, and concluded that the men were victims of a crime but no charges could be brought due to weak identifications. And the FBI has launched an investigation, according to two of the victims who told MassLive they were interviewed by federal agents in March.

Disciplinary hearings are still pending for the officers before the Community Police Hearing Board, the seven-member, volunteer body created by Sarno's executive order following the beating of motorist Melvin Jones III by former officer Jeffrey Asher in 2009.
Now theres a way to eat tacos while giving back to your community.

One of downtown Missoulas newest restaurant and bar has a unique business model.

Locals Only https://www.facebook.com/localsonlymissoula/ donates 25 cents of each donation to a local non-profit.

Ariana Lake takes us to the new spot in the Bandlander Complex to hear from the Manager Kailee Bruskotter about what makes this place so cool.

Check out the video below to learn more in this digital exclusive story.

Mobile users click here to view the video http://www.kpax.com/clip/13419149/new-missoula-restaurant-and-bar-offers-unique-business-model

By Ariana Lake

Full Story: http://www.kpax.com/story/35683826/new-missoula-restaurant-and-bar-offers-unique-business-model
If youre a Montanan bound for college and short on money, you might be better off applying to the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill than a flagship at home.

Or even a small private school in Kentucky, Berea College.

Youll have a fraction of the loans once you graduate, and youre a lot more likely to graduate within six years.

KEILA SZPALLER [email protected]

Full Story: http://missoulian.com/news/local/other-states-schools-have-different-models-to-help-students-get/article_3ed6e6c3-40f6-59fd-9a81-a7e07b9f9ea3.html

Editors note

This month, the Missoulian has examined college affordability in Montana. This series shows how the state distributes financial aid; how the conversation around assistance may mean a higher focus on need-based aid in the future; the expenses that drive costs on campuses; the reality of "free" tuition; and the barriers that are not financial but have just as much impact on a students ability to go to college. This series also shares the stories of four Missoula students who talk about how they pay for school.
Last month, the Montana Board of Regents voted to raise tuition for most universities and colleges in the state. The increases, while modest, still mean that a larger number of prospective students, both resident and non-resident, will not be able to afford higher education in Montana.

Its as good a time as any for Montana to re-evaluate the way it supports college and university students in need. With the costs of education on the rise, and enrollment at the University of Montana and other campuses on the decline, revamping financial incentives for students could go a long way toward attracting and retaining the next generation of Montanans.

Full Editorial: http://missoulian.com/opinion/editorial/montana-should-focus-on-expanding-financial-aid-for-college-students/article_759f3294-dfcd-5614-bc1b-1718ce6796db.html
Bracha Tenenbaum traded in the grind of New York City for the quality of life in Missoula and said she hasnt looked back since.

The 27-year-old is a product manager at Missoula tech startup Submittable http://www.submittable.com , working with the designers and software engineers on the development of the companys online submission services.

After growing up in Brooklyn and graduating from Columbia University, Tenenbaum said she and her husband Danny decided that once he graduated from New York Universitys law school that they wanted to move out West.

"We were done with New York, done with that race race," she said.

From the Missoulas 20 Under 40 series http://missoulian.com/business/missoula-s-under/collection_13009463-e281-5529-9dd6-178175627386.html

DILLON KATO [email protected]

Full Story: http://missoulian.com/business/under-tenenbaum-traded-brooklyn-for-montana/article_473f4d93-d504-5343-85a7-1c9506771c0a.html

***

Montana Career Opportunities  Inside Sales Professional, UX/UI Designer, Senior Front-End Developer and more  Submittable http://www.matr.net/article-77578.html
Lack of physical activity is a risk factor for many serious conditions. The fact that neither adults nor teenagers get as much exercise as they should is, perhaps, not very surprising. But new research shows that the situation might be a lot more worrying than previously believed. Share on Pinterest Teenagers get as much physical exercise as seniors, according to a new study. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults engage in at least 2.5 hours of physical activity per week. The CDC also report that only 1 in 5 adults gets this much physical activity. People who do not get the exercise they need are more likely to die prematurely or develop a range of serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some forms of cancer. Not only do adults not get enough exercise, but teenagers fare even worse. Fewer than 3 in 10 high school students get a minimum of 60 minutes of daily physical activity, which is the level of exercise recommended by both the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO). New research, published in the journal Preventive Medicine, suggests that the situation might be even more grim than previously thought; levels of physical activity among teenagers are surprisingly low, the study finds.

Studying physical activity across several age groups The team of researchers from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, MD, set out to examine levels of physical activity across several age groups. Additionally, the research looked at different times of the day and their corresponding levels of activity, as well as differences in exercise patterns according to gender. The studys senior author was Vadim Zipunnikov, an assistant professor in the Bloomberg Schools Department of Biostatistics. Prof. Zipunnikov and colleagues examined a total of 12,529 participants, accessing the data available from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys carried out in 2003-2004 and 2005-2006. The participants continuously wore tracking devices for 7 consecutive days, taking them off only when they went to bed or had a shower. These devices tracked how long the participants were sedentary for, and for how long they engaged in light or moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. The scientists divided the participants into five groups according to age: children (aged between 6 and 11), adolescents (12 to 19 years old), young adults (aged between 20 and 29), midlife adults (31 to 59 years old), and older adults (aged between 60 and 84). In terms of gender, 49 percent of the participants were male, and 51 percent were female.
New research finds that two chemical compounds commonly found in household cleaning and personal hygiene products cause birth defects in rodents. Share on Pinterest Two chemicals found in household cleaning products led to neural tube defects in mice and rats. Researchers from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) and the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech  both in Blacksburg, VA  set out to examine the effect of a common type of chemicals in mice and rats. The first author of the study  published in the journal Birth Defects Research  is Terry Hrubec, associate professor of anatomy at VCOM and research assistant professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Hrubec and colleagues investigated the effect of a large class of common household chemicals called quaternary ammonium compounds, or quats. Due to their antimicrobial and antistatic properties, these products are routinely used as disinfectants in the form of household cleaning products, laundry detergent, and fabric softener. They are also used as preservatives in personal hygiene products, such as shampoo, conditioner, and eye drops.

The effects of disinfectants in rodents Hrubec and team specifically looked at two quats: alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride (ADBAC) and didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC). These two quats are used in combination in common cleaning products. For the experiment, the researchers introduced the substances in the vivarium of both mice and rats. Male and female mice received ADBAC plus DDAC combined, in the form of a commercial disinfectant. They received the substance in their food, as well as being exposed to it in the atmosphere. The rodents were administered 60 or 120 milligrams of the substance per kilogram of body weight (mg/kg), daily, in their food, or 7.5, 15, or 30 mg/kg of body weight, administered by oral gavage  a precise method of oral dosing commonly used in rodent studies. Finally, the rodents were also exposed to the quats ambiently, as the disinfectant was used in their room. Hrubec and colleagues assessed the embryos on the 10th day of pregnancy, as well as on the 18th day when they looked for gross and skeletal malformations.
Study finds seamstresses possess stereoscopic superpowers.

Haute couture can be credited for enhancing more than catwalks and red carpets. New research from the University of California, Berkeley suggests that the 3D or "stereoscopic" vision of dressmakers is as sharp as their needles.

Stereoscopic vision is the brain's ability to decode the flat 2D optical information received by both eyes to give us the depth of perception needed to thread a needle, catch a ball, park a car and generally navigate a 3D world.

Using computerized perceptual tasks, researchers from UC Berkeley and the University of Geneva, Switzerland, tested the stereoscopic vision of dressmakers and other professionals, and found dressmakers to be the most eagle-eyed.

The results, published in the journal Scientific Reports, show dressmakers to be 80 percent more accurate than non-dressmakers at calculating the distance between themselves and the objects they were looking at, and 43 percent better at estimating the distance between objects.

"We found dressmakers have superior stereovision, perhaps because of the direct feedback involved with fine needlework," said study lead author Adrien Chopin, a postdoctoral researcher in visual neuroscience at UC Berkeley.

What researchers are still determining is whether dressmaking sharpens stereoscopic vision, or whether dressmakers are drawn to the trade because of their visual stereo-acuity, Chopin said.

To experience what it means to have stereoscopic vision, focus on a visual target. Now blink one eye while still staring at your target. Then blink the other eye. The background should appear to shift position. With stereoscopic vision, the brain's visual cortex merges the 2D viewpoints of each eye into one 3D image.

It has generally been assumed that surgeons, dentists and other medical professionals who perform precise manual procedures would have superior stereovision. But previous studies have shown this not to be the case.

That spurred Chopin to investigate which professions would produce or attract people with superior stereovision, and led him to dressmakers.

A better understanding of dressmakers' stereoscopic superpowers will inform ongoing efforts to train people with visual impairments such as amblyopia or "lazy eye" to strengthen their stereoscopic vision, Chopin said.

In addition to helping people with sight disorders, improved stereoscopic vision may be key to the success of military fighters, athletes and other occupations that require keen hand-eye coordination. An estimated 10 percent of people suffer from some form of stereoscopic impairment, and 5 percent suffer from full stereo blindness, Chopin said.

For example, the 17th-century Dutch painter Rembrandt, whose self-portraits occasionally showed him with one lazy eye, is thought to have suffered from stereo blindness, rendering him with flat vision. Some vision scientists have posited that painters tend to have poorer stereovision, which gives them an advantage working in 2D.

For the study, participants viewed objects on a computer screen through a stereoscope and judged the distances between objects, and between themselves and the objects. Researchers recorded their visual precision and found that, overall, dressmakers performed markedly better than their non-dressmaker counterparts in visual acuity.
Scientists have developed a new technique for investigating the effects of gene deletion at later stages in the life cycle of a parasite that causes malaria in rodents, according to a new study in PLOS Pathogens. The novel approach, developed by Upeksha Rathnapala and colleagues at the University of Melbourne, Australia, could enhance research into potential drug targets for malaria treatment.

New treatments are needed for malaria because of increasing drug resistance in the single-celled Plasmodium parasites that cause it. Metabolic processes in Plasmodium that are essential for its development could serve as potential new drug targets. However, the Plasmodium life cycle, which occurs in both mosquitos and host animals, makes it difficult to identify and study such processes.

In the new study, the researchers demonstrate their novel technique by focusing on an important metabolic process in Plasmodium berghei, which causes malaria in rodents and is commonly used in mouse studies of malaria. This metabolic process requires a gene known as the ferrochelatase (FC) gene, and it allows P. berghei to produce a chemical compound known as heme.

Heme synthesis is known to be essential for P. berghei development in mosquitos that transmit the parasite between rodent hosts, but it is not essential during a later stage in the host bloodstream. However, between these two stages, P. berghei undergoes a developmental phase in the host liver, and it has been unclear whether heme synthesis is essential at this stage.

Rathnapala and colleagues produced P. berghei parasites that are capable of expressing the FC gene and developing properly in mosquitos, but produce a mix of FC-expressing and FC-deficient parasites once they infect mouse liver cells. The scientists genetically engineered the parasites so that FC-deficient individuals would express fluorescent markers, allowing for easy identification.

The researchers found that FC-deficient parasites were unable to complete their liver development phase. This suggests that disrupting the heme synthesis pathway could be an effective way to target Plasmodium parasites in the liver. Such an approach would be prophylactic, since symptoms aren't apparent until the parasite leaves the liver and begins its bloodstream phase.

This same novel approach involving fluorescent markers could be adapted for other genes, allowing scientists to identify additional metabolic processes that are essential for Plasmodium development in host animals.

"The idea of tagging mutant genes with fluorescent proteins is a simple one but it allowed us to follow mutant parasites throughout the malaria life cycle and dissect their phenotypes in the liver stage, something that hasn't been easy to do for mutations that block mosquito development," the author explain. "Our analysis of heme biosynthesis shows the power of this simple method but It's a technique that can be easily applied to other genes and other malaria parasite species, greatly expanding the scope for investigating this immunologically important stage in the malaria parasite's life cycle."

Article: A novel genetic technique in Plasmodium berghei allows liver stage analysis of genes required for mosquito stage development and demonstrates that de novo heme synthesis is essential for liver stage development in the malaria parasite, Rathnapala UL, Goodman CD, McFadden GI, PLOS Pathogens, doi: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006396, published 15 June 2017.
Horseback riding and rhythm-and-music therapies may improve stroke survivors' perception of recovery, gait, balance, grip strength and cognition years after their stroke, according to new research in the American Heart Association's journal Stroke .

A variety of interventions that engage patients in physical, sensory, cognitive and social activities simultaneously target a range of functions. Researchers said this combination of different activities and stimuli, rather than the individual components, appear to produce additional beneficial effects for stroke recovery.

"Significant improvements are still possible, even years after a stroke, using motivating, comprehensive therapies provided in stimulating physical and social surroundings to increase brain activity and recovery," said Michael Nilsson, M.D., Ph.D. senior author and Director of the Hunter Medical Research Institute and Professor at the University of Newcastle in Australia and University of Gothenburg, Sweden.

Researchers studied 123 Swedish men and women (age 50-75) who had suffered strokes between 10 months and 5 years earlier. Survivors were randomly assigned to rhythm-and-music therapy, horse-riding therapy or ordinary care (the control group). The therapies were given twice a week for 12 weeks.

Researchers found that among the survivors who felt they experienced an increased perception of recovery:

56 percent were in the horse-riding group;

38 percent in the rhythm and music group; and

17 percent in the "control or usual care" group.

The perception of recovery was sustained at three-month and six-month follow-ups.

Horse-riding therapy produces a multisensory environment and the three-dimensional movements of the horse's back create a sensory experience that closely resembles normal human gait and is beneficial for stroke survivors.

In rhythm-and-music therapy patients listen to music while performing rhythmic and cognitively demanding hand and feet movements to visual and audio cues. Researchers found that the rhythm-and-music activity helped survivors with balance, grip-strength and working memory.

Limitations of the study include the relatively small number of participants and survivors with severe disabilities could not be considered for the therapy. In addition, researchers doubt these therapies would be cost-effective if patients with mild deficiencies had been included.

Further analyses of the study results and follow-up studies involving more participants are planned to help determine efficiency, timing and costs.

Co-authors are Lina Bunketorp-Kall, Ph.D.; Asa Lundgren-Nilsson, Ph.D.; Hans Samuelsson, Ph.D.; Tulen Pekny, M.D.; Karin Blomve, M.D.; Marcela Pekna, M.D., Ph.D.; Milos Pekny, M.D., Ph.D.; and Christian Blomstrand, M.D., Ph.D. Author disclosures and funding are on the manuscript.
New study data from the Chinese community in Chicago is shedding light on the impact of elder abuse in America.

The discoveries are reported in five articles appearing in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences. Rush University Medical Center Medical Center Professor XinQi Dong, MD, MPH, led the team that conducted the research.

"What we're finding is that elder abuse is an extremely complex problem, with severe consequences regarding psychological well-being," Dong said. "Patterns of victimization may be influenced by the older adults' health, intergenerational relationships, and other social determinants like culture.

This is the first time that scholars have examined elder abuse - including psychological, physical, sexual, financial exploitation, caregiver neglect - and self-neglect in relationship to a number of factors, such as two-year incidence, adult children perpetrators and previous child abuse, levels of physical function, and thoughts of suicide.

The researchers utilized the PINE and PIETY studies, two population-based longitudinal studies surveying more than 3,000 Chinese older adults and their adult children in the Chicago area, to investigate elder abuse among the U.S. Chinese population. They found:

Nearly 1 in 10 Chinese older adults become new victims of elder abuse every two years.

Risk factors for elder abuse vary depending on the type of abuse.

Adult children who were abused as minors are nearly twice as likely to abuse their older parents compared to those who were not abused.

Victims of elder abuse and self-neglect are 2 to 3 times more likely to have suicidal ideation than non-victims. Lower levels of physical function may be a protective factor against victimization.

"Examining elder abuse in the U.S. Chinese community sheds light on the potential cultural nuances of elder abuse," Dong added. "Perpetrators of elder abuse tend to be family members, but adherence to collectivism or familism and lack of institutional support may deter Chinese Americans from asking for help."

Elder abuse or mistreatment is a serious public health issue impacting at least 1 in 10 older adults in the U.S. each year, leading to declines in the health and well-being on individual and family levels.

"While we want prevention and intervention efforts to be implemented as soon as possible," Dong said, "researchers need to make sure they have enough information to create effective, culturally-appropriate programs to truly improve the lives of older adults."
The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2017

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1 in 20 older adults report some form of perceived financial exploitation in the recent past

About one in 44 cases of financial abuse is reported

Death rate in exploited seniors is three times more than that found among un-abused seniors. Elder abuse victims are four times more likely to end up in a nursing home

Family members or trusted others constitute 90% abusers

Elder abuse: The Indian Scene

Parents and Senior Citizens Act

The WEAAD seeks to promote recognition, and a better understanding of elder abuse and neglect. The aim is to provide targeted information, initiate and encourage interventional strategies, and raise awareness on the interplay of various socio-cultural, economic and demographic processes in every society, that has consequences on senior citizens. Caregivers and healthcare professionals, social service sectors and of course, families, have to be encouraged to recognize the fundamental right of every citizen, senior or otherwise, to live an abuse-free, healthy and happy life.The 2017 theme for the WEAAD is. Financial deprivation and exploitation happens to be one of the foremost forms of abuse against the aged. Globally, about 5-10% older adults are reported to fall prey to material exploitation. Yet, financial abuse, like all other forms of elder abuse, is widely unreported, and hence the official statistics available could very well just be the tip of the iceberg.The 2017 WEAAD aims to focus particularly on the financial hardships that an older adult can be made to go through.Financial exploitation is defined as, "the illegal or improper use, control over, or withholding of the property, income, resources, or trust funds of the elderly person or the vulnerable adult by any person or entity for any person's or entity's profit or advantage other than for the elder person or the vulnerable adult's profit or advantage."Other forms of elder abuse and neglect include:This includes the non-accidental use of physical force, resulting in bodily harm, physical pain or injury, chronic or acute illness, functional impairment or death. Violent acts with or without the use of a weapon would include beating, hitting, biting, choking, suffocation, shoving, pushing, shaking, pinching, slapping, kicking, stomping, burning. Not only physical assault but the inappropriate use of drugs, restraints, and confinement would also fall under this category.This refers to verbal and non-verbal behaviour causing mental and emotional distress. It includes regular ridicule and humiliation, intimidation through the use of threats, isolation, control of the activities of the elderly, and consistent blaming and scapegoating.Often associated with younger people, sexual abuse of the elderly is actually more frequent than one likes to imagine. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual contact with the elderly without his or her consent. Such contact could involve forced physical sex acts, unwanted touching or penetration, and other activities such as showing the person pornographic material, and forcing him or her to undress, and perform, or watch, sexual acts.This happens when the health and safety of the aged person is compromised, due to negligence, or ignorance, on the part of the caregiver in providing adequate nutrition, essential medical care, shelter, clothing, hygiene. More than half of the elderly abuse the world over falls under negligence, intentional or unintentional.According to a 2014 HelpAge India survey, about 50% elders in the country underwent abuse - Bangalore topped the list among metropolis cities with 75% senior abuse, and New Delhi brought up the rear with 22% abuse. Unfortunately, elderly people often tend to safeguard their harassers. This is because, as mentioned before, the perpetrators are in most cases, children and family members of the victim. While sons, along with daughters-in-law are often the main perpetrators, study reveals an emerging trend of daughters turning increasingly abusive. Elder women seniors report an abuse rate of about 53% compared to 48% in elder men.Most Indian cities have police-run old-age helplines for the welfare of the elderly. In 2007, the Indian Parliament passed theto ensure the continued maintenance of the elderly by their children and caregivers. However, very few citizens, senior or otherwise, are actually aware of the existence of the Act, or the helplines.As life span increases with rapid leaps of technology, every country in the world will have a higher senior population. Yet, society tends to undervalue the elderly, assuming them to be frail, senile and unproductive. We must, however, remember, that even as we stereotype our parents and grandparents, it is to them that we owe our existence in the first place.It is our duty to give the elders in our families, as well as society in general, a healthy, peaceful life.Source: Medindia
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President Tran Dai Quang receives outgoing Israeli Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar on June 19th (Photo: VNA)



The State leader said the development of the two countries relations can be seen through a recent State visit to Vietnam by Israeli President Reuven Ruvi Rivlin. Israel also recognised the full market economy of Vietnam, received more agricultural apprentices and increased scholarships for Vietnamese students.

The two sides negotiated a free trade agreement, signed a memorandum of understanding on setting up a joint research fund, and enhanced cooperation in hi-tech agriculture and security-defence industry.

Those outcomes have turned Israel into one of the leading partners of Vietnam in the Middle East, President Quang noted.

He appreciated the Ambassadors efforts and contributions to the reinforcement of bilateral multi-faceted ties, asking her to continue to help boost Vietnam-Israel relations in her new posts.

The two countries cooperation potential remains huge, especially in science-technology, security-defence, agriculture, training and trade, the President said, voicing his hope for the continued effective implementation of the commitments made by their senior leaders during President Rivlins visit, thereby bolstering bilateral cooperation in a substantive manner.

Vietnam attaches importance to the promotion of the friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with Israel, the President added.

For her part, Ambassador Meirav Eilon Shahar said during the five years working in Vietnam, she exerted efforts to contribute to bilateral partnership in economy, trade, culture, science-technology, education, and security-defence.

She affirmed that after returning to her homeland, she will continue to help foster the two countries relations.

On this occasion, she conveyed President Rivlins invitation to pay an official visit to Israel to President Quang, who thanked and accepted the invitation with pleasure./.
Minister of National Defence of Vietnam Gen. Ngo Xuan Lich (L) and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China

Sen. Lieut. Gen. Fan Chang Long review the honour guard (Photo: VNA)



These formed part of the talks in Hanoi on June 18th between Gen. Ngo Xuan Lich, Politburo member, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Minister of National Defence of Vietnam and Sen. Lieut. Gen. Fan Chang Long, Politburo member and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China, who is on a friendship official visit to Vietnam from June 18th-19th.

Gen. Lich stressed that along with recent friendship visits by leaders of the two Parties, States and armies, the Chinese officers ongoing visit is vivid evidence of close relations between the two Parties, States and armies.

He affirmed that the Central Military Commission and the Defence Ministry of Vietnam attach great importance to the visit of Sen. Lieut. Gen. Fan and his entourage, considering it as an important political event and a new development step in cooperative relations between the people and armies of the two nations.

During the talks, the two sides also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Following the talks, Lich and Fan signed a cooperation agreement on personnel training between the Defence Ministries of Vietnam and China.

Gen. Lich and Sen. Lieut. Gen. Fan will co-chair activities within the fourth Vietnam-China border defence friendship exchange program that will be held in Vietnams northern border province of Lai Chau and Yunnan province of China from June 20th-22nd./.
Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong receives Chinese Politburo member, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission Fan Changlong (Photo: VNA).



The statement was made by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at his reception in Hanoi on June 18th for Chinese Politburo member and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission Fan Changlong.

The Party Secretary welcomed Fan and the Chinese high-ranking military delegation to Vietnam to attend the fourth Vietnam-China border defence friendship exchange program scheduled to take place in both Vietnam and China from June 20th-22nd.

Stressing the importance of cooperation and exchange programs between the two countries' armies, Trong said Vietnam and China should actively implement signed agreements and make full use of cooperative mechanisms like high-level meetings and friendship exchanges between land and marine border forces and dialogues on defence policy.

Vietnam always values the long-time neighborly friendship and the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China, he affirmed.

Fan, for his part, said China highly values the relationship with Vietnam, adding that the Chinese army, together with the Vietnamese army, is determined to carry out agreements between the two countries, contributing to the development of bilateral ties.

He said China hopes to increase high-level talks, strategic discussions and defence cooperation with Vietnam./.
Delegates at the congress (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to India, concurrently Nepal and Bhutan Ton Sinh Thanh said that this was an important event and a new development step in activities of the Vietnamese community in India and Nepal, because it was the first meeting which was attended by most representatives of groups, all classes of the Vietnamese community there.

He said that in recent years, the Vietnamese community in India and Nepal has been growing, and is starting to have common activities and increasing solidarity.

At the congress, the delegates focused on discussing specific measures so that the Vietnamese community in India and Nepal are more united and organized, with more useful common activities, supporting each other and towards the homeland.

The Ambassador said that the State, Government and Embassy of Vietnam have always considered the Vietnamese community, regardless of their composition, to be an inseparable part of the Vietnamese people and would protect the legal and legitimate interests of all Vietnamese people working, living and studying in India and Nepal.

In addition, he also wanted the Vietnamese community to respect the local law, contributing to the development of the traditional friendship between Vietnam and India and Nepal, contributing to the development of the country, and upholding the beautiful image of the Vietnamese people.

The Ambassador also informed those attending about the development of the country after more than 30 years of innovation and the Vietnam-India relations.

At the congress, the delegates representing Buddhist monks, overseas Vietnamese, students in India and Nepal had speeches and expressed their wishes that the General Association could bring into full play specific features of each community, and implement a Vietnamese teaching program for children of overseas Vietnamese people.

The delegates agreed to establish the General Association of Overseas Vietnamese in India and Nepal with the seven-member Executive Board and the three-member Advisory Board, including Ambassador Ton Sinh Thanh, Venerable Thich Huyen Dieu, and Superior Thich Hanh Chanh.

In the coming time, the General Association will uphold its role to unify the overseas Vietnamese community in India and Nepal, support, link and exchange to help each other, as well as organize common activities towards the homeland and teach Vietnamese to overseas Vietnamese children.

Also at the congress, the Vietnamese Embassy praised the delegates, who have made active contributions and launched the campaign "Towards the sea and islands of the homeland" with the implementation time to early September./.
LINCOLN TOWNSHIP  An official with the Michigan Township Association has confirmed the legality of the appointment of an out-of-township resident on Lincoln Townships newly-formed planning commission.

Mike Selden, director of member information services for the Michigan Township Association, said Robert McLean of Paris Township would be considered a full-fledged voting member of the Lincoln Township Planning Commission under Michigan law.
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 are five news stories and events to start your week:

1. F/A-18E Shoots Down Syrian Su-22 in Air-to-Air Kill

Via Oriana Pawlyk at Military.com: "A U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 on Sunday after the Soviet-era fighter-bomber dropped munitions near U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighters, U.S. Central Command officials confirmed. The strike was believed to be the U.S. military's first air-to-air kill involving manned aircraft in years. The last known such instance was when a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon shot down a Serbian MiG-29 in 1999 during the Kosovo campaign ... The attack comes after pro-Syrian forces attacked SDF fighters in Ja'Din, wounding a number of SDF fighters, officials said."

2. Navy Identifies Sailors Who Died in Ship Collision

The U.S. Navy identified the seven sailors who died when the destroyer they were in collided with a container ship near Japan. The sailors, whose ages ranged from 19 to 37 years old, were discovered in flooded berthing compartments on the USS Fitzgerald hours after the destroyer collided with the container ship Philippine ACX Crystal from the Philippines around 2:30 a.m. local time Saturday. Three other sailors -- including the commanding officer, Cmdr. Bryce Benson -- were medically evacuated from the scene and a massive search was conducted involving U.S. and Japanese ships and aircraft to locate those who remained unaccounted for.

3. Seven US Troops Wounded in Afghanistan Insider Attack

Seven U.S. troops were shot and wounded in an insider attack Saturday at a base in northern Afghanistan, officials said. The service members, who weren't immediately identified, were medically evacuated from Camp Shaheen in Mazar-i-Sharif in Balkh Province, according to an updated statement from the press office of Operation Resolute Support, the U.S. and NATO mission to train and advise Afghan forces. One Afghan soldier was killed and another was hurt in the attack that occurred around 2 p.m. local time on June 17.

4. Hard-Hit Marine Class from Vietnam War Celebrates 50th Reunion

Via Richard Sisk at Military.com: "In the fall of 1967, The Basic School in Quantico, Virginia, finished training 498 twenty-something Marine second lieutenants. By the end of the year, nearly all were in Vietnam. Before Christmas, the first of them was killed in action: 2nd Lt. Michael Ruane, of Mike Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, on Dec. 18, 1967. The TBS class that began in June 1967 (TBS 6/67) would have a casualty rate of more than 50 percent -- the highest of any Marine officer class during the Vietnam War. For those second lieutenants and their platoons, the pace was unrelenting."

5. If It Flies or Hovers, It Will Be at the Paris Air Show

Via John Leicester of The Associated Press: "LE BOURGET, France -- While Airbus and Boeing will again hog the spotlight at the Paris Air Show with their battle for ever-larger slices of the lucrative pie in the sky, a lot of the really interesting stuff will be going on elsewhere at the upcoming biennial aviation and defense industry gathering. Lockheed Martin's F-35 Lightning II jet fighter will crane necks with high-speed aerial displays, drones will again be a hot topic, and a would-be flying car will aim to show that it is closer to getting off the ground as a consumer ride." Military.com will also have a team on the ground to provide original reporting.

-- Brendan McGarry can be reached at brendan.mcgarry@military.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Brendan_McGarry.
North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un is reportedly so terrified of being targeted for assassination that he travels incognito inside the Hermit Kingdom, and there's growing evidence his paranoia may be well-founded.

The 33-year-old, third-generation ruler is "extremely nervous" about a clandestine plot to take him out, according to a key South Korean lawmaker who spoke to The Korea Herald. Rep. Lee Cheol-woo, chairman of the South Korean parliament's intelligence committee, made the claim based on reports from South Korea's intelligence agency.

"Kim is engrossed with collecting information about the 'decapitation operation' through his intelligence agencies," Lee said following a briefing last week.

The rumored "decapitation plan" to target Kim and key deputies in the event fighting broke out on the peninsula first surfaced in late 2015, when the U.S. and South Korea signed "Operation Plan 5015," a joint strategy for possible war scenarios with North Korea. According to the Brookings Institute, the plan "envisions limited warfare with an emphasis on preemptive strikes on strategic targets in North Korea and "decapitation raids" to exterminate North Korean leaders."

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Something about the term "decapitation" seems to have gotten the attention of the gout-addled, unpredictable and violent dictator. According to Lee, Kim's is so frightened that he now disguises his movements, travels primarily at dawn and in the cars of his henchmen. Public appearances and jaunts in his prized Mercedes Benz 600 have been curtailed.

North Korea's United Nations representative referenced the "beheading operation" in a sternly worded, 2016 letter to the body's Security Council, suggesting that the joint military operations regularly conducted by the U.S. and South Korea "constitute a grave threat to [North Korea] as well as international peace and security."

By January of this year, there were reports that South Korea was speeding up the creation of a specialized unit designed for this mission, initially slated to be ready by 2019.

During this year's Foal Eagle and Key Resolve exercises with South Korea, one of the largest annual military exercises in the world, members of U.S. Navy SEAL teams reportedly participated in decapitation drills with our South Korean counterparts for the first time. Naval officials denied reports that members of SEAL Team 6, the group that took out Usama Bin Laden, took part.

Shortly after those war games, however, the USS Michigan, a submarine that is sometimes used to move U.S. Special Forces, took a position just off of North Korea's coast.

While there are concerns that taking out North Korea's leader might not be enough, a White House review revealed earlier this year that the U.S. strategy on North Korea does include the possibility of regime change.

Kim has become a major problem regionally and for the U.S. as well. Pyongyang has repeatedly tested missiles potentially capable of delivering nuclear warheads and Kim's threats against South Korea, Japan and the U.S. have grown increasingly bellicose. Last week, North Korea returned American college student Otto Warmbier after holding him for 17 months on a dubious charge. Doctors say Warmbier underwent devastating brain injuries while in North Korean custody and is now in an unresponsive state. Three other U.S. citizens remain locked up in the reclusive nation's infamous gulags.

But while taking out Kim may be a possibility, experts say it would be much more complicated that the 2011 raid in Pakistan in which CIA operatives and SEALs took out Bin Laden.

"A U.S. special operations strike against Kim Jong Un in today's conditions would make the bin Laden raid look easy," said Mark Sauter, a former U.S. Army and special forces officer who operated in the Korean de-militarized zone during the Cold War and now blogs about the decades-long effort to defend South Korea at www.dmzwar.com.

The daring, night-time raid on the Abbottabad compound went off nearly flawlessly. But U.S. forces would face much more deadly opposition in an assault on the North Korean capital.

"Pyongyang is surrounded by antiaircraft weapons, and while the corpulent Kim presents a large and sluggish target, he's kept on the move, always surrounded by fanatical guards and often near or in complex underground compounds," Sauter said.

Despite those potential challenges, Sauter suggests the North Korean leader "does need to worry about strikes by precision-guided missiles and bunker-buster bombs in the early stages of a preemptive allied attack, and if a conflict continues, everything from (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to special operators will be on his tracks."
Russia condemned the U.S. shootdown of a Syrian Su-22 fighter bomber over Syria on Sunday, saying it will now track aircraft of any kind near its airspace in Syria with surface-to-air missiles.

The Russian Ministry of Defense said it will begin tracking joint coalition aircraft west of the Euphrates River and treat them as targets, officials said in a statement Monday.

The ministry also said it has suspended cooperation with the U.S. on deconfliction zones as it believes U.S. Central Command, the combatant command overseeing the Middle East, violated the memorandum of understanding the U.S. set up with Russia in 2015.

The memorandum established a phone "hotline" the militaries use to alert one another of actions they're taking in Syria.

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Until a thorough account of the attack from the U.S. Navy pilot who shot down the Su-22 is provided by CentCom, Russia will cease to work with the U.S. on deconflicting operations, the statement said.

The Russian Embassy in the U.S. said on Twitter the Syrian pilot ejected over Islamic State territory during the dogfight with the F/A-18E Super Hornet, and his status is unknown.

The escalation between the two aircraft occurred Sunday after the Soviet-era fighter-bomber dropped munitions near U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighters, CentCom officials said.

The strike was believed to be the U.S. military's first air-to-air kill involving manned aircraft in nearly two decades. The last known such instance was when a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon shot down a Serbian MiG-29 in 1999 during the Kosovo campaign.

"A Syrian regime Su-22 dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of Tabqah and, in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of coalition partnered forces, was immediately shot down by a U.S. F/A-18E Super Hornet," the command said in a release.

The attack comes after pro-Syrian forces attacked SDF fighters in Ja'Din, wounding a number of SDF fighters, officials said. The town is south of Tabqah and a known area where the U.S. works with Russia to deconflict the airspace.

"We made every effort to warn those individuals not to come any closer and then the commander made a judgment that there was a threat to forces that we were supporting and took action," Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Joseph Dunford told reporters Monday at the National Press Club.

Russia also disputed reports that CentCom officials attempted to alert their Russian counterparts to de-escalate the attacks on the SDF. The ministry said the U.S. failed to use the established communication line between the militaries, the statement said.

The air-to-air kill marks the second between two major countries pursuing their own agendas in Syria while battling Islamic State forces.

In 2015, a Turkish F-16 fighter jet shot down a Russian Sukhoi Su-24M attack aircraft near Turkey's border with Syria.

Turkey, also involved in operations with the U.S. in anti-ISIS operations, claimed the jet was in violation of its airspace. The pilot was believed to be killed by Syrian rebels on the ground after he parachuted out of the aircraft.

Last summer, Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan apologized to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the event. Putin responded to the apology by ordering his government to start rebuilding ties with Turkey and, when Erdogan faced a botched coup attempt July 15, the Russian leader quickly offered his support.

While the U.S. maintains its mission is to defeat ISIS, the strike marks the fourth against pro-Syrian regime forces by the coalition in recent weeks.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Oriana0214.
SCIO TOWNSHIP, MI - German chemical company Wacker is looking to create patents and develop new silicone products with its newly-opened $1 million research and development facility in Washtenaw County's Scio Township.

David Wilhoit, president and CEO of Wacker Chemical Corp., said the Scio Township lab will serve as a location focused on R&D for silicone and polymer products in health and medical care, paints and coatings, electronics and personal care.

"Silicones is the division this site is devoted to focus on," Wilhoit told a group of media representatives during a tour of the facility Tuesday, June 13.

He described Wacker as a "research intensive company," especially considering the recent addition of 10,000 square feet of lab space located inside the Michigan Innovation Headquarters, 600 S. Wagner, about a mile outside of Ann Arbor.

It is part of a 90,000-square-foot incubator space that houses technology start-ups and was chosen because of its proximity to Wacker's Adrian manufacturing plant, Wilhoit said, which offers training and product creation opportunities.

The two locations are about 36 miles apart. The manufacturing plant employs about 600 people.

Wacker was founded in 1914 and has its global headquarters in Munich. It specializes in silicone manufacturing, with more than 3,000 products that cover applications like automotive engineering, construction, cosmetics, medical technology and electronics.

The chemical company posted sales of $5.14 billion in 2016, with almost 18 percent of that figure attributed to North and South America.

Wacker employs 13,000 people worldwide, including 1,600 people in the United States across locations in California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia.

Scientists at the Ann Arbor location will collaborate on an international scale with R&D centers in Seoul, South Korea; Mexico City; Shanghai, China; and its corporate R&D center in Munich.

"Opening this center is a key milestone for us," said Axel Schmidt, vice president of silicones division at Wacker.

Schmidt sees "really good growth perspectives" coming from silicones in global trends. The newest R&D center will help Wacker work long-term on key products, he said.

When asked about the decision to lease room from an incubator organization, Schmidt said there are "always pluses and minuses" between renting and building a facility.

Wacker currently is constructing a pyrogenic silica plant in Charleston, Tenn.

Christoph Briehn is the director of the Ann Arbor R&D center and said the lab needs two more scientists along with employees in areas like biology and marketing. He led a tour through the lab area, pointing out open office spaces and spotlights that let natural sunlight pour into the facility.

Ann Arbor is unique in being the first Wacker facility with an open concept for office space, something the scientists working there appreciate, said Dr. Hagit Levin. After the tour, she talked about starting an experiment and being able to converse easily with others throughout the process.

Wacker posters hang on the wall, along with safety information, and photos of the scientists who work in the facility. Some of the building materials used to outfit the space used Wacker products, like a hybrid glue polymer used on the floor tiles.

Bright blue cabinets hold up black countertops and new equipment from scales to ovens in each of Wacker's new lab spaces.

"Everything here is brand new," Briehn said.

Additional areas provide room for storage and machinery, along with shipping and receiving products.

Briehn said he was surprised at how much overlap there was between the variety of companies inside the incubator space.

The Wacker team is already working on projects like wood coatings and anti-foam technology, Briehn said.

John Young was working for a chemical company in New Jersey before heading to Ann Arbor to join the Wacker team. It isn't too often scientists are able to work in a new lab facility, he said.

"I didn't know anything about Michigan except for the snow and cold," Young said.

Sarah Burke didn't have to travel far to start her new job; the Eastern Michigan University graduate said she was excited to start working at Wacker after growing up just down the street from the facility.

"It's a great learning opportunity to learn horizontally across all divisions," Burke said.

Her training started at Wacker's facility in Adrian, and eventually the Ann Arbor team moved to the new facility in April. The scientists come from a variety of backgrounds, specialties and universities like Harvard, Michigan State University and the University of Michigan.

"We're hoping for patents," Burke said when asked about professional milestones she would like to achieve with her new colleagues. "That would be one of the best things, to bring a product to market."
LANSING, MI -- You could be sitting on $100,000 winning lottery ticket and not even know it. And today is the last chance you can claim that ticket.

A winning Powerball ticket from the drawing held of June 18, 2016 will expire today at 4:45 p.m. if no one claims the prize. The ticket is worth $100,000.

The ticket was purchased at the BP gas station, located at 15500 Michigan Avenue in Dearborn. Winners have one year from the drawing date to claim their prize. Since the one-year anniversary of the drawing was on a Sunday this year, the winner has an extra day to claim the ticket.

If no one comes forward to claim the ticket, the money will go to the state School Aid Fund. It would mark the second time this year a winning ticket worth a significant amount of money went unclaimed.

In May, a Fantasy 5 ticket worth $105,000 went unclaimed.

If you have the winning ticket, you're encouraged to call the Michigan State Lottery at (517) 373-1237. Winners must claim their prize at lottery headquarters in Lansing.
ANN ARBOR, MI - Megan Fenech will take on a new role within Ann Arbor Public Schools, leaving her current position as principal of Ann Arbor Open to lead A2 STEAM at Northside.

Fenech will take the place of Joan Fitzgibbon, who retired in March after spending 24 of her 29 years as an educator with AAPS. Fitzgibbon led A2 STEAM through its transition from Northside Elementary School to a K-8 school that emphasizes science, technology, engineering, art and math.

"Today is an exciting day as we welcome a new principal to the A2 STEAM @ Northside family," said Superintendent Jeanice Swift, in a press release issued Friday, June 16. "Ms. Megan Fenech is an experienced, committed and caring professional educator with a proven record of achieving academic excellence. We are delighted that she is bringing her expertise to this leadership position."

AAPS will now go through the process of hiring a new principal for Ann Arbor Open School.

Fenech has been principal of Ann Arbor Open, a K-8 magnet school, since July 2015. She previously worked at Plymouth-Canton Community Schools as a science teacher, the district's curriculum coordinator, an assistant high school principal and an elementary principal.

"Having experience at both the elementary and secondary levels, in central administration as well as with alternative programs, gives Ms. Fenech a depth and breadth of experience and knowledge that will serve the A2 STEAM @ Northside community well," the school district's press release states.

Fenech holds a bachelor's degree in environmental studies and a master's degree in teaching from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, in addition to a Education Specialist Degree in educational leadership from Oakland University.
Ukraine International Airlines (UIA, Kyiv), the largest airline in the country, on June 15 started servicing direct regular flight between Kyiv and Budapest (Hungary), the airline has said in a press release.

According to the press release, the new flights are serviced every day using Boeing 737-800 planes with economic and business class seats. From Kyiv the plane departs at 13:35 and arrives to Budapest at 14:30. The plane departs from Budapest at 15:20 and arrives to Kyiv at 18:00 (local time).

The cost of a one-way economy class ticket with all taxes and duties is offered from $55 (from Kyiv).

"With early booking, in 10 or six months in advance, the low cost price would be $21-50 for the one-way ticket," UIA said.

UIA is the largest Ukrainian airline. Its base airport is Boryspil (Kyiv).

Now there are 42 aircraft in the UIA fleet. The average operation life of the aircraft is 12 years.

One of the ultimate beneficiaries of the company is businessman Ihor Kolomoisky.
Bundt cake made by Five Star

Simmons at work in the kitchen

Bonnie Blackledge displays product from B & B Famrs

Cold pressed canola oil from B & B Farms

Harvesting canola at B & B Farms

This article is one of a series of stories about Michigan's agricultural economy. It is made possible with funding from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Starlett Simmons loved baking since childhood and was known for baking cakes and pastries from scratch for family, friends, and coworkers.The owner of Roseville-based Five Star Cake Co. Dessert Boutique & Bakery initially turned her passion into a money-making venture by baking cakes at home under Michigan's Cottage Food Law. The law allows small businesses to make non-potentially hazardous foods for direct sale to customers without licensing and inspection, an exemption that allows them to get started in the food business without costly overhead. Simmons was ready to expand beyond her home kitchen, but not ready for her own facility.Food startups like Simmons' can run into a common roadblock: the cost of a commercial kitchen. A small commercial kitchen equipped with the basics such as an oven, mixer, smallwares, hood and fire suppression, refrigerator, tables, and utensils could cost $50,000. And that assumes a building is already available, says David Schroeder, Executive Learning and Conference Center general manager at the University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross School of Business.Not one to be deterred, Simmons turned to an incubator kitchen, a shared commercial kitchen space that allows an early-stage business to gain footing before investing in its own facilities. "I used Detroit Kitchen Connect and was one of the inaugural businesses into the program," Simmons says. "Using an incubator kitchen cuts the overhead of having a building tremendously." Detroit Kitchen Connect is a program of Eastern Market Corporation . It helps entrepreneurs like Simmons find licensed commercial kitchens where they can safely and legally produce their food products by reserving time slots at a local kitchen. Some of the kitchens are unused much of the week. Opening them up to entrepreneurs makes use of the otherwise underutilized space.Simmons began baking in the very small church basement kitchen of Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Christian Cathedral. "Even with something that small and very simple that we were able to get Starlett access to, it opens up so much," says Aaron Egan, head chef at Eastern Market and kitchen manager for Detroit Kitchen Connect.Where fulfilling a large cookie order for the Detroit Lions may have taken her all day in her home kitchen, she was able to crank it out in short order in the new space.Simmons was also able to test whether a larger-scale business was right for her. It was. "She was one of the first to move over to the main Eastern Market kitchen, which is a little more equipped because it was purpose-built," says Egan.The Detroit Kitchen Connect network of incubator kitchens was piloted by Eastern Market and FoodLab Detroit."It really was born out of this need to be a clearinghouse and have a good list of incubator kitchens available in the Detroit area," Egan says. "It's very difficult for someone to start with something small in today's global marketplace. The incubator projects allow people space to grow."Simmons is proud to proclaim Five Star Cake Co. Dessert Boutique & Bakery as the home of the best carrot cake in Detroit. "My concept of a dessert boutique is to offer nostalgic desserts that you can't find anywhere else or every day. I want to provide an atmosphere like grandma's kitchen," she says.While Simmons first created the taste of grandma's kitchen out of her own home, then out of Detroit Kitchen Connect incubator kitchens, she eventually outgrew both. "I have always known that I wouldn't be in an incubator kitchen long-term," she says. "It's not set up for that purpose."After working out of shared kitchens for four years, Simmons was finally ready to for the grand opening of her own dessert boutique location in Roseville this February. Customers purchase Five Star cakes from her Roseville shop, or in June at Eastern Market and Northwest Detroit Farmers' Market."My business has absolutely changed my life and career path," says Simmons, who left the corporate world to bake. "Children grow so fast and when I worked for someone else I was missing very important milestones. I now get to mentor my daughter, who is an aspiring pastry chef and also works at my bakery. I've always wanted to feel as though I was contributing to the world."While one may not notice what a startup Detroit-area baker and a pair of third-generation rural Michigan farmers have in common, both are small business owners who relied on food incubator kitchens to launch their dreams.Bonnie and Dan Blackledge are crop farmers in Marion, located between Cadillac and Clare. They began growing canola in 2007 and marketed their 100-acre canola crop the traditional wayhaving it trucked to Canada. The Blackledges wondered about adding value to their own canola by processing it themselves. But canola oil for cooking wasn't on their minds at first.They began to work on a project making biodiesel from the seeds. That's when they took a sharp turn down their entrepreneurial path. "We found that the best use for the seed, and the best profit, was in selling the seed as a food product," Bonnie Blackledge explains. It turned out cold-pressed canola oil was the answer they were seeking. That's when B & B Farms Canola Oil was born.The Blackledges needed a space to cold press and bottle the canola oil, so they turned to Starting Block, an incubator kitchen in Hart, near the state's Lake Michigan coast."We definitely believe it helped with our success," Blackledge says. "The staff at the kitchen walked us through the process to get licensed by MDARD (Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development) and helped us get what we needed to pass inspection. They put us in contact with a company that sold bottles, another that printed labels, and connected us with another client who made a bread-dipping spice for oil that we used in demos. ... I'm not sure what we would have done if no incubator kitchen would have been available."The Blackledge's used the Starting Block kitchen fir two years before going on their own. After graduating out of the incubator in 2013, B & B Farms Canola Oil was made in a small, on-farm, licensed kitchen attached to the Blackledge home. Recently, they were able to quadruple the size of the facility by renovating an old dairy barn and turning the clean and safe former milking parlor into their cold-pressing site. Most bottles of the culinary favorite are sold at groceries and specialty stores throughout Michigan, and feature the Pure Michigan logo.The food incubator staff at Starting Block also helped the Blackledges make business connections. "They fostered our relationship with the MSU Product Center, which has helped us in many ways," Blackledge says.Both Simmons and Blackledge sought help from the Michigan State University Product Center , which helps budding or established businesses in food, agriculture, or natural resources to develop and commercialize products and services.Entrepreneurs seek help from the organization at various stages. A startup might consider whether an idea is worthy or get assistance with a business plan, while an existing business might seek help with navigating regulations, food safety, or strategic planning."We work with businesses at all levels," says Brenda Reau, senior associate director of the MSU Product Center. "Folks that are starting at their kitchen table all the way up to larger businesses, some very large."When businesses are new, Reau suggests they seek MSU Product Center advice early in the process. "We like to work with people who are in what we call the 'concept development stage' because many times people have an idea, but they're not sure is it something they can turn into a viable business or not. There's a process we put them through that helps them see, is this going to be a viable business? Is this a marketable concept? Is the market already saturated?"Reau suggests entrepreneurs visit the MSU Product Center web page and click on request for counseling . From there, information is reviewed and a business is matched with an innovation counselor.Michigan State University Extension educator Jerry Lindquist was one professional who worked with Bonnie and Dan Blackledge. "They explored and strategized methods to add value to their products by bottling cooking canola oil to offset the high shipping cost of transporting seed to Windsor, Ontario," he says. "And they survived the run-up in corn and soybean prices by continuing to grow canola while others chased those higher-priced grains. They are one of the few growers left in the state of Michigan successfully raising canola today."While Starlett Simmons sought to make Five Star Cake Co. Dessert Boutique & Bakery her full-time career, Bonnie and Dan Blackledge set out to supplement their existing farm income with B & B Farms Canola Oil. Both found help at Michigan food incubator kitchens."We've seen a real foray into this area with the economic climate in Michigan," Reau says. "Certainly the economic climate over the last six to eight years in Michigan has propelled innovation on the part of people.""Our canola oil business is something that Dan and I have been able to do together, and we have involved our family members along the way," Blackledge says. "We're not going to get rich quick, but our motivation for doing this was mostly to add value to a farm product and enjoy the satisfaction of sharing our product with our customers."
Sack race at Matrix Head Start

Matt Gillard, president and CEO of Michigan's Children

Childcare provider Laneshia Talley with kids at Matrix Head Start

Wendy Lewis Jackson, managing director for the Detroit program at The Kresge Foundation

Across Michigan, experts say quality options for early childhood education are sparse. In Detroit, 28,000 children who need early childhood care go without because of lack of available facilities, according to research by IFF Where facilities do exist, the quality of programming can vary greatly. Of the 8,417 providers statewide, fewer than 2 percent have earned the state's top quality rating of five stars.The numbers seem bleak, but early childhood education is poised for a turnaround. Efforts are underway from child development experts, policy advocates, philanthropists, and community organizations to boost quality and access to early childhood education.An important step in that turnaround may be the unprecedented commitment and partnership from two of major foundations.Through a five year, $20 million commitment to establish a comprehensive early learning strategy in Detroit, The Kresge Foundation and W. K. Kellogg Foundation created Hope Starts Here , which will work to bind health, human services, and early education for children from birth to age eight.With the help of hundreds of Detroit stakeholders, Hope Starts Here is crafting a strategic action plan based on recommendations from a variety of sectors that will be unveiled this summer, according to Khalilah Burt Gaston, program officer at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation."We know we need to increase access, create more centers and more seats, and develop highly-skilled teachers, which is also the case nationally," Gaston says. "There will be recommendations around facilities. How do we leverage resources for centers to be equipped to help welcome children into their spaces? How do we co-locate more family services in schools so they become more like community hubs? How do we identify more spaces and places for children to be welcome in the city?"Lessons learned through a 2006 Grand Rapids initiative can be applied to boost early education in Detroit, in Flint, and in other Michigan cities."In Grand Rapids, there were a lot of similarities to what Detroit is trying to address now," says Wendy Jackson, managing director for the Detroit Program at The Kresge Foundation. "Like how to get fundamental things in place, how to make sure we have the right data systems, how to fund a comprehensive approach.  It's interesting to see, across the state, an increasing emphasis in investing early and investing now."This will be crucial to counteract neglect at the state level for early education."Michigan, at least over the last decade has disinvested in the childcare system," says Matt Gillard, president and CEO of Michigan's Children . Subsidy, reimbursement, and eligibility rates are among the lowest in the country.Stakeholders pushing for increased childcare subsidy investment are hopeful, but acknowledge the long road ahead. "Rate increases are being proposed, and we are hopeful in the final budget passed by legislature is a step in the right direction," says Gillard. "But we have not addressed eligibility in any meaningful way."Michigan's initial income eligibility limit for childcare subsidy support is the "lowest in the nation in dollar terms," according to a 2016 report prepared for the Michigan Department of Education's Office of Great Start. The document recommends that Michigan should set eligibility based on annually-adjusted poverty level or state median income figures.Providers are beginning to benefit from increased access to grants and loans to improve programming and facility quality, with organizations such as First Children's Finance and IFF helping providers invest in their businesses."Discussions are happening now about how do you buy down the interest on the loan so it's accessible to more providers, including home-based programs," says Denise Smith, vice president for early learning, Excellent Schools Detroit . "This is promising."Creative efforts are also underway to improve status and pay for childcare workers, historically among the lowest-paid workers in Michigan's economy. Scholarships, available through T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood , of the Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children, boost the number of highly qualified educators.According to director Kelsey Laird, T.E.A.C.H. has supported 7,951 early childhood educators pursuing a Child Development Associate credential (CDA), associate, or bachelor's degree in early childhood education since the program's inception in 2001. Over 1,200 of those scholarship recipients were awarded in fiscal year 2016 alone.Innovative programs would allow students who want to pursue a career in early childhood education to enroll in community college while still in high school. "This could allow a student to earn CDA by the time they graduate from high school," says Smith.As a member of the Hope Starts Here stewardship board, Smith has recommended blending available state and federal dollars to equalize pay for early childhood teachers.In line with improved Head Start performance standards, a recent $1.5 million Head Start Innovation Fund grant was awarded to nine Detroit-area Head Start grantees specifically to support teacher recruitment, retention, and parent engagement. The first comprehensive revision since the federal program began in 1975 focuses on data-driven performance, and could potentially boost quality across the childcare spectrum."The Head Start performance standards are more stringent, focusing on the best quality and the highest standards," says Matrix Human Services Early Head Start/CCP director Kathleen Coakley. "What's really nice is that it's a good way to model your whole childcare center. We will start seeing some spillover to the rest in how they are operating."But no matter how good an early childhood center is, quality learning also needs to take place in the home.To support the idea of the parent as a child's first teacher, county-based Great Start Collaboratives builds clear, simple systems to direct parents to existing programs. Great Start Collaborative-Wayne supports county libraries in offering vetted, consistent resources, some in multiple languages, to help parents recognize what children need during their first year."Literacy with young children is not rocket science, it is simple science," says Kathleen Alessandro, executive director for Everybody Ready, the administrative and fiscal infrastructure for Great Start Collaborative-Wayne. She is referring to the 30 million word gap in disadvantaged toddlers, a disparity that can be overcome, according to research."[Children] don't need Baby Einstein or digital platforms," says Alessandro. "They need adults to look into their eyes to talk and sing and read, and do them no harm."Great Start Wayne tells parents about the Great Start to Quality system, and provides sharable content to faith leaders, media, police, and everyone outside the early childhood education community so people will understand the value of nurturing the growing child, and share what they've learned during everyday interactions."We have a calendar of everything you can do with a child in Wayne County for little or no cost," Alessandro says. "We level the field and democratize the information."As efforts mount and optimism grows, advocates share best-case scenarios."I put it this way: what is our country's next moonshot? How will we be bold and audacious as a nation when it comes to families with young children?" says Jackson.Early investment is critical to keep Detroit moving forward, agrees Gaston."Research shows 95 percent of brain development takes place by five years old," she says. "Invest heavily in children when their brains are developing at the highest rate so we have talent now and in the future."All photos, except of Matt Gillard and Wendy Jackson, by Sean Work
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Pursuant to Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, please find enclosed herewith Notice of 44th Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Company scheduled to be held on Wednesday, the 2nd August, 2017 at 12:30 p.m. at 'Sanskruti', Alembic Corporate Conference Center, Opp. Pragati Sahakari Bank Limited, Alembic Colony, Vadodara - 390 003.We request you to kindly take the same on recordSource : BSE
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Inform you under SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015 that a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Company was held on Monday, 19th June, 2017 and the said meeting commenced at 5.00 p.m. and concluded at 5.45 p.m. In that meeting the Board has decided the following matters:1.Re-appointed Mr. Rupesh Jain (DIN: 06836912), as a Managing Director of the Company for a period of three(3) years w.e.f. 19th June,20172.Considered and approved the notice of 35th Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Company to be held on Tuesday 8th August,2017 at 11.30 A.M. at Registered Office of the Company.3.Considered and approved notice of the 35th AGM and the Board of Directors Report for the year ended on 31st March,2017.4.Approved the dates for Closure of Register of Members & Share Transfer Books (Book Closure) of the Company for the purpose of the Annual General Meeting from 01st August,2017 to 08th August,2017(Both days inclusive).Source : BSE
The under-prepared banks, especially in the public sector, will get additional time as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has granted a two-month breather to companies for filing tax returns.

So, while the GST will be implemented from July 1, the government has relaxed timetable and exempted companies from penalties and late fees for filing returns till September.

GST is the biggest indirect tax reform which aims to remove tax barriers between states and create a uniform market.

Most banks were struggling to get the infrastructure in place for the full-fledged roll-out from July 1.

"This (extension) will certainly help those banks that have started preparations recently and will give them added time to prepare," MS Mani, Senior Director, Deloitte.

Without revealing much, a senior banker said this was definitely a much required breather for banks to keep the process ready till the filing of returns.

According to Mani, while foreign banks and large private banks started their preparations about 5-6 months ago, many nationalised banks have floated their RFPs (request for proposals) in the past couple of months and would have started their preparations thereafter.

"Since the deadline for GST is pretty close, many banks may be looking at short term solutions for now and could take up other changes during July so that they are ready at least by the return filing timelines in August, September," he said.

All banks have multiple IT systems for specific operations such as forex, treasury, broking and other products and backend systems to take care of accounting and tax. These need to be moved to GST compliant systems.

Banks will also be required to provide state-wise data and compute state-wise tax payments, which they didnt have to do previously due to the centralised system.

Experts said that in the absence of GST-compatible frontend IT systems, banks wont be able to raise invoices and customers may not get input credits.

"Since the GST will be operational from July 1, 2017, banks have to make lot of changes in their systems and other procedures. The preparedness of all banks for implementation of GST on July 1, 2017, is a question mark," the Indian Banks' Association had told the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance earlier this month.

It had added that several services by banks to customers were centralised, while others were localised. The banking system is central to any financial transactions, and hence their IT, accounting and compliance standards need to undergo change.

Industry had also raised concerns over filing of returns under GST due to the lack of readiness of the IT infrastructure  the GST Network.

While some of the bigger private and foreign banks had started modifying their frontend IT systems in 2016 itself, many public sector banks and smaller private banks started reconfiguring their systems only about two months back.

Government-owned banks including Bank of Baroda, Union Bank, Allahabad Bank, Indian Overseas Bank and Indian Bank called for proposals from IT companies in April and would have started work only recently.

Government banks control about 80 percent of the banking transactions. Large banks have peak transactions close to 10 million a day.

"All major banks are working 24 by 7, even on Saturdays and Sundays to get their systems ready...So even if the systems may not be ready, banks are trying to get the data or invoices ready by July 1 and they can streamline the process by the filing time," said Siva Subramaniam GV, Vice President and head of product management at SunTec Business Solutions, which is helping in providing GST solutions to banks and financial services.
Ukraine's Finance Ministry has proposed to replace profit tax in Ukraine with tax on moved capital, the ministry has reported on its website.

The bill was drawn up by the ministry jointly with business, experts and lawmakers.

According to the presentation posted on the website, the bill determines the procedure for taxation of distributed dividends and payments equaled to them. It implies the annulment of the tax on repatriation of dividends.

Tax on moved capital at the rate of 15% will be imposed on dividends paid to nonresident legal entities, to legal entities that pay tax on moved capital at the rate of 0% and to resident individuals - at the rate of 15% and individual income tax at 0%.

Payments equaled to dividends will be taxed at the rate of 20% (tax on moved capital).

These are the following payments: free provision of property to a non-payer of the tax on moved capital; additional charge for transfer pricing; acquisition of goods and services from related persons applying a simplified taxation system; payment of financial assistance to the non-payer of the tax on moved capital; and investment unreturned within 12 months to the statutory fund of non-payers of the tax on moved capital. In some cases, such payments are equivalent to the payment of royalties over the limit; interest paid to related non-residents; and payments under insurance or reinsurance contracts in favor of non-resident insurers.

The presentation also says that the banking sector will be able to remain a payer of profit tax until 2020 inclusive. The amount of dividends paid for 2013-2017, will not be taxed with the tax on moved capital within the scope of taxable profits, on which the profit tax was previously paid.

According the presentation, the bill will take into account the submission of aggregated information on banking transactions between payers and non-payers of the tax on moved capital to the supervisory authorities.

The final meeting of the working group on the bill was held on June 14, 2017. At present, the impact of the bill on revenues to the national budget is being assessed, after which the document is to be approved by authorities, and public discussion is to be held.

Upon completion of this process, the bill will be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers for consideration.
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The Union Cabinet is likely to clear stake sale in Air India this week after deciding between a complete and partial divestment of state-owned airline. Despite being granted a nine-year bailout package a few years ago, national carrier Air India has amassed debt of around Rs 45,000 crore.

The officials devised a Cabinet note containing NITI Aayog's proposal of a complete selloff and the Civil Aviation's bid in a partial sale of the airline's assets to reduce its debts.

Government think-tank NITI Aayog has suggested for a complete privatisation of the airline. Their bid is supported by presenting comebacks of earlier state-owned airlines  British Airways, Japan Airlines and Austrian Airlines  which became successful after privatisation.

The Civil Aviation Ministry's proposal of a partial selloff is chalked out on the basis of compensating for the Rs 33,000 crore debt owed on working capital loans. The airline will put up Rs 30,000 crore worth of assets up for sale.
Bakery products are offered at a supermarket of Swiss retail group Coop in Zumikon, Switzerland. (Image: Reuters)

India may soon witness entry of more than 50 mid-level global retailers into its retail market. The retailers have tied up with Franchise India, a retail solutions provider, and will mostly be eyeing the smaller, untapped markets within the country, reports Economic Times.

Among others, brands such as Korres, Migato, Evisu, Wallstreet English, Pasta Mania, Lush Addiction, Melting Pot, Yogurt Lab and Monnalisa, some from US, Singapore are planning to invest around USD 300-500 million and will open about 3,000 stores.

The brands are looking to tap into the countrys expanding economy and booming consumption which are backed by a growing urban population and a middle class with rising standard of living.

According to a report published by AT Kearney earlier in the month, India has replaced China as the most promising retail market in the world.

Apart from a growing economy, these retailers find reforms such as permitting 100 percent ownership in business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce businesses, and Goods and Services Tax (GST) which will bring uniform tax system across the nation, as a big boost to invest in India.

The inability to find further growth in their home market is also one reason which drove these retailers to look offshore in booming countries like India.

In 2016, the Indian retail market stood at a whopping USD 641 billion. With a compounded annual growth rate of 10 percent, an India Business of Fashion 2017 report estimate that by 2026 the retail market in India will be worth USD 1.6 trillion.
The government will soon take a call on whether India should regulate virtual currencies such as bitcoinsa cryptocurrency used as a digital mode of payment.

A committee comprising officials from finance ministry, NITI Aayog, ministry of information technology, State Bank of India and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is giving final touches to a report on the way forward for virtual currencies in India and whether or not to legalise or regulate them.

The panel is also examining the existing international framework on virtual currencies and will suggest measures on consumer protection and prevent money laundering.

"We have had five meetings and have consulted all ministries, public, stakeholders (exchanges such as Zebpay and Unocoin). We will submit the report by July-end," a senior government official told Moneycontrol.

The crucial task for the committee is to fix the accountability for the transactions carried out through virtual currencies and a body needs to regulate them, the official explained.

SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) can be asked to regulate virtual currencies as transactions are currently done through unregulated exchanges. RBI may step in if the government plans to regulate them or accept them as currency, the official said.

Currently, India does not have any monitoring mechanism for virtual currencies. Most countries are yet to determine the legality of bitcoin--the most commonly used virtual currency.

Countries like the US, European Union, Australia have indirectly given nod to the legal usage of bitcoins by introducing regulatory mechanism, while Russia and Iceland have banned them.

The government panel is said to be exploring the possibility of various options. One of them being hiring an agency that would monitor the trading guidelines and finalise the laws governing virtual currencies.

"We may monitor these currencies for some time and then see how it progresses. It can then be concluded if at all there is a need for a regulator, the official said.

However, chances of legalising currencies like bitcoins are very bleak, the official said. On the other hand, banning bitcoins is not easy. Simply because one doesn't know who is trading or operating it, he explained.

A comprehensive framework for regulating such currency transactions is likely to take long time as the legal structure doesn't exist to deal with them.

Time and again, the RBI has warned traders of the perils of using virtual currencies. In 2013, the apex bank had cautioned the users, holders and traders of virtual currencies, including bitcoins, about the potential financial, operational, legal, customer protection and security related risks that they are exposing themselves to.

Such currencies are stored in electronic wallets and are prone to losses arising out of hacking, loss of password, compromise of access credentials, and malware attack, RBI had said.

...VCs, including Bitcoins, are being used for illicit and illegal activities in several jurisdictions. The absence of information of counterparties in such peer-to-peer anonymous/ pseudonymous systems could subject the users to unintentional breaches of anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) laws, it had then warned.

The government also echoed similar views recently.

RBI has cautioned the users, holders and traders of Virtual Currencies(VCs), including Bitcoins about the potential financial, operational, legal customer protection and security related risks that they are exposing themselves to. The creation, trading or usage of VCs including Bitcoins, as a medium for payment have not been authorised by the RBI, Arjun Ram Meghwal, minister of state for finance, had told Lok Sabha in a written reply in February this year.
India will turn into one market at the stroke of mid-night between June 30 and July 1, with the rollout of the unified GST along with liberal tax filings rules for first two months to tide over any teething issues.

Rejecting demands for deferment of the biggest tax reform since Independence, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley assured the nation that the IT network backbone has been adequately tested and systems are in place for implementation of the goods and services tax.

Jaitley said: "We don't have the luxury of time to defer GST implementation... The official launch of the GST will take place on the midnight of June 30 and July 1." The GST Council, which met here for the 17th time today, also decided to fix the tax rate for AC hotels at 18 per cent where the billed amount is up to Rs 7,500.

Earlier, it had proposed to levy 28 per cent on hotel bills exceeding Rs 5,000. Giving details, Jaitley said this would mean that now 18 per cent GST will be levied on bills of Rs 2,500-7,500. The Council also decided to tax lotteries in two segments -- with state-run ones attracting 12 per cent GST and the state-authorised but run by private entities at 28 per cent.

As per the revised return filing timeline decided by the Council, for July, the sale returns will have to be filed by September 5 instead of August 10. Companies will have to file sale invoice for August with the GST Network by September 20 instead of September 10 earlier.

"To obviate any grievance or any lack or preparedness, a slight relaxation of time for the first two months that is return in the month of July and August was discussed and from September, strict adherence to the time will go on," Jaitley made it clear. "That means after relaxation those who are not ready will get two and a half months to get ready. If somebody still says he is not ready, it would be to his own detriment."

No late fees and penalty will be levied for the interim period and the returns will have to filed by businesses with self-declaration, stating the input credit claimed and the tax liability pursuant to that. Briefing reporters about the meeting, Jaitley said six sets of rules were approved relating to advance ruling, appeal and revision, assessment, anti-profiteering and funds settlement.

As per the anti-profiteering rules, a standing committee will refer the complaints to Directorate of Safeguards (DGS) for further investigation. A five-member anti-profiteering authority, sources said, will be set up in about three months, which will finally decide on the penalty. The authority is likely to have a sunset date of two years.

As for the e-way bill, the GST Council was divided on the issue and decided to allow states to continue with their existing system. "There were two opinions in the Council. There will be further deliberation... Till then, an alternative rule will operate... which will authorise the existing system of the states to continue," Jaitley said.

A decision on e-way bill rules will be taken by the Council at its next meeting on June 30 or thereafter. As per the draft e-way bill rules, any good costing Rs 50,000 will have to be registered with GST Network for inter- and intra-state movement to plug tax evasion.

It will take at least two months to put in place infrastructure for e-way, sources said. On the registration of businesses, Jaitley said that 65.6 lakh or 81.1 per cent existing excise, service tax and VAT assessees out of 80.91 lakh total taxpayers at present have migrated to the GST Network portal. The registration, which closed on June 15, will reopen on June 25 and process has been going on "satisfactorily".

A total of 81 per cent businesses have registered without any glitch, Jaitley said, adding that "when thousands and lakhs register, they don't make a complaint. When five people register, they go through the twitter". "Businesses should not rush for migration. The provisional ID number will be the same for GSTIN (GST identification number). New businesses too need not rush.

They will have 30 days for GSTIN," Jaitley added. The Council also decided on the Rs 50 lakh threshold for availing composition scheme by businesses in special category states. However, Uttarakhand will have it at Rs 75 lakh.

"Barring Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, it was decided to make the composition limit at Rs 50 lakh for the other north-eastern states and hill state of Himachal Pradesh," Jaitley said. The Council also decided that Integrated GST (IGST) on shipping vessels will be 5 per cent with input credit.

With regard to states that have not yet passed the SGST Bills, Jaitley said: "Now, there are only 3 states left. Tamil Nadu has their meeting tomorrow. West Bengal has already passed an ordinance, Punjab I hope will pass it. Kerala also. That only leaves Jammu and Kashmir. All states will be through by the end of the coming week.
The Life Insurance Council, which is the umbrella body for the life insurance companies in India, is planning to meet the GST Council with respect to the rates for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on Friday. They will also be meeting local tax representatives in Mumbai today.

The industry had sought a zero rate for insurance or atleast a rate which was among the lowest in the tax bracket. As against the expectation of a 5 percent tax rate under GST for insurance, an 18 percent rate was imposed which will directly impact the premiums being paid by the end consumer.

While several representations were sent to the GST Council and the ministry to reconsider the tax rates, the 18 percent tax has been retained for insurance.

Though several sectors have seen a downward revision of rates after representations being sent by industry bodies, insurers demands have not yet been considered. Hence, we are approaching the authorities again, said a senior life insurance executive.

The insurance regulator met with the insurance company chief executives on June 16 which was an annual review meeting of the industry. GST was not part of the agenda in the meeting and the discussions were primarily around the industry performance.

Insurers not only want a lower rate of tax, they have also sought an extended deadline for implementation of GST. However, they are unlikely to be granted a relief in this case.

V Manickam, Secretary General of Life Insurance Council, had earlier told Moneycontrol that while they had even earlier suggested a centralised Goods and Services Tax (GST) for insurance, the GST Council did not pay heed to their demands.

According to Manickam, with the GST structure, an insurance company will have to fill 1800 forms under the new regime which would cut down a lot of productive time. Also, he added that large companies will have a tough time registering in each state.

Currently, a rate of 15 percent is applicable to insurance which includes service tax and a few other cess. A direct increase of 3 percent will be made in the insurance premiums from July 1 since most insurers have decided to pass it on to the policyholders. It is anticipated that large insurers like Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) will see the maximum impact which has more than 20 million policyholders.
BJP leader Subramanian Swamy called for a cess to be imposed for funding gaushalas across the country at a national conference for cow protection on Sunday.

The conference was organised by the Virat Hindustan Sangam at the BSE on Dalal Street. Swamy is founder of VHS.

According to report in The Indian Express, Swami said, In 1962 when China attacked India, an appeal was made to contribute to the defence fund. That is the mood of the country now. If we ask to pay Re 1 on petrol for gaushalas, the country will be flooded with money.

He added that the cow protection cess should be applied to people of all religions -- "Hindus and Muslims, since we tax everybody equally.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad international general secretary Surendra Jain alleged that 'gau-rakshaks' who should be felicitated for trying to stop cow slaughter are being implicated in false cases by police.

Gaurakshaks are performing a great service. We must give them a certification. A national cadre called Gaurakshaks of Hindustan must be made, Jain said.

At the conference, Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Ahir asked the government to create a cow sanctuary.

I proposed to use 7 crore hectare of forest land for cow sanctuary. If we want to protect cows, a demand should be made to the government. People should ask the government to create a cow sanctuary just like a tiger sanctuary, Ahir said.

A range of topics relating to cow such as its protection, the export market for milk, various medicinal claims and idea of making it the national animal were discussed at the conference.

The IE report said that Swami Arihant, founder of Urjaa World Foundation, proposed that compulsory chapters be introduced in school curricula on cow protection.

We dont need andolans, we need education. Our children have started going to convent schools and western culture is prevailing. We need to introduce chapters on cow and its protection, he said.

Swamy also commented on the government's recent law banning sale of cows for purposes of slaughter and said that the law did not infringe upon people's right to eat what they want.

There is no such thing as absolute fundamental right. The right to eat beef is subject to reasonable restrictions in the Constitution. Soon, a national ban will be announced on cow slaughter and consumption.

The government is planning to make an e-commerce portal for cow farmers where farmers can sell their cow products directly online, and offer health services using cow urine, cow dung and cow ghee.

We plan to make this an e-commerce portal eventually. Farmers can upload their products and they do not need to worry about sale and constant income, said Govind Das, attached with Virat Hindustan Sangam.

Similar facility will be available in a mobile app called Cow Connect, which will display the nearest gaushala.

The app has several categories  Go Krishi, Go Vigyan Anusandhan, Go Shala, Go Rakshak.
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The Indian information technology services industry has for long been talking about delinking revenue growth from a proportionate rise in hiring, but as automation increases and new technologies mature, the industry will have to look at newer ways to measure productivity, say experts.

While the numbers show a near-consistent decrease in the number of people hired for every billion dollar added in revenue by the Indian IT outsourcing industry, they do not show a sharp or drastic change.

According to industry body National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) data, last year the industry hired 17,143 engineers for every dollar billion it earned in export revenue, an increase from the previous years hiring of 16,199. This number was 16,868 in fiscal year 2015, and 17,496 in fiscal 2014.

Ideally, the number of people hired per dollar added in IT export revenue should go down each year, if companies are to improve their productivity and have a non-linear growth.

This move towards non-linearity, or decoupling revenue growth from a proportionate headcount growth has been talked about for almost a decade now.

Non-linear growth is already a fact for the industry. No more do companies measure how many people you need to deliver a particular project, said Sangeeta Gupta, executive vice president at Nasscom.

The top four Indian IT services companies have also, at different times, spoken about how they are achieving greater productivity through fewer people, and aim for higher profit margins by achieving non-linear growth.

If you look at the incremental revenue generated in the last five years on a constant currency basis, you will see that it took far fewer additional people compared to the prior five-year period. I think this trend will continue into the future, notes Ajoy Mukherjee, EVP, Human Resources of Tata Consultancy Services, in the companys annual report.

Infosys said that last year revenue per full time employee increased by 1.2 percent as a result of automation, utilisation and productivity improvements.

Wipro said it aims to drive non-linearity through investments in intellectual property via acquisitions, organically developed platforms and increasing patent filings. We have a dedicated unit to drive non-linear revenue growth by leveraging IP-based products, platforms and solutions as well as through automation and innovative commercial constructs and delivery models, it said.

Though decoupling is not fully in effect, it has started, and as automation and cognitive platforms gain more maturity, the metric of revenue per employee is going to be completely decoupled from the (revenue) projections, said Rajesh Gupta, Partner, India Operations at Information Services Group (ISG).

However, companies have set some goals to improve revenue-per-employee efficiency that seem difficult to achieve in the near-term.

Infosys, for example, is now looking to revise its goal of reaching revenues of USD 20 billion with a 30 percent margin and the revenue per employee at USD 80,000 by 2020.

While revenue per employee would continue to be a meaningful metric for traditional IT outsourcers for some more time, there could be newer parameters that companies might have to factor in.

These metrics or these numbers will change based on how many people they have reskilled, how much they have transformed, some of the different types of people they are hiring- data scientists, more intelligent automation, plus a smaller number of highly skilled people, who will be brought in, added ISGs Gupta.
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Eris Lifesciences Ltd (ELL) is a developer cum manufacturer of branded pharmaceutical products in select therapeutic areas of cardiovascular, anti-diabetics, vitamins, gastroenterology and anti-infectives. Company's product portfolio comprises of 80 mother brand groups with the top 10 brands contributing as much as 75% of their total revenues. ELL is primarily focusing on lifestyle diseases encompassing both the chronic (65%) and acute segments(35%). They are currently the fastest growing company among the top 25 players in the chronic segment. It ranks first in terms of revenue growth in the chronic category during FY13-17(CAGR of 28.9%) and third in both cardiovascular and anti-Diabetics therapeutics. Doctor prescription statistics(Rx) shows that ELL is one of the favourite choices of practitioners and is among top five companies in India by prescription share. The Company is consistently showing improved top and bottom lines with revenue and EBITDA growing at a CAGR of 16.5% and 32% respectively during FY13-17. Over the same period PAT grew at a CAGR of 41.7%. We believe that ELLs healthy revenue growth, high EBITDA margins and low debt bodes well for the company to accelerate growth in the coming years. At the upper price band of Rs603, ELL is available at a P/E of 34x on FY17 EPS which is reasonable given its unique business model and strong focus in Tier 1 cities and Metros. Hence, we recommend SUBSCRIBE to the issue, with a medium-to-long term perspective.

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IPO

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Ahmedabad based Eris Lifesciences (Eris) is a domestic brandedformulations focused pharmaceutical company with emphasis on lifestylerelated specialised therapeutic areas. The company was promoted by firstgeneration entrepreneur Amit Bakshi in 2007. As on FY17, its productportfolio comprised 80 mother brand groups and is primarily focused ontherapies that require the intervention of specialists and super specialists.The acute: chronic ratio was at 34:66 pertaining to FY17 revenues. Thecompany derived ~77% of revenues from metro cities and class-1 towns.It is ranked 20th out of 377 companies present in the chronic category ofthe IPM (IMS MAT March 2017). It owns a manufacturing facility inGuwahati, Assam, which is currently operating at ~30% capacityutilisation. The company reported a revenue CAGR of 17% in FY13-17 to

| 725 crore and PAT CAGR of 43% to | 242 crore during the same period.

At the upper band of | 603, the stock is available at 34.3x FY17 EPS of| 17.6. We has assigned SUBSCRIBE recommendation to the issue basedon the management dynamism, robust financial performance, healthyreturn ratios, leverage free balance sheet and strong free cash flows.

Superior business and financial matrix justify premium valuation.

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Equity benchmarks gained momentum and recouped previous week's losses on Monday, with the Sensex rising more than 300 points intraday despite negative market breadth.

Relaxation in tax return filing time after GST implementation that is expected from July 1 and further progress in NPA resolution led the market higher. Positive global cues - especially political developments in Europe - also helped the market move towards record closing high.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was up 255.17 points at 31,311.57 and the 50-share NSE Nifty rose 69.50 points to 9,657.55, aided by banking & financials, metals, FMCG stocks and Reliance Industries.

The broader markets underperformed benchmarks, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices closing flat. About 1,505 shares declined against 1,200 advancing shares on the BSE.

Globally, all eyes are on political events in Europe as negotiations by UK Brexit Secretary David Davis with European Union began, and French President Emmanuel Macron secured a majority in the parliamentary election over the weekend.

European bourses were higher, with the France's CAC, Germany's DAX and Britain's FTSE up 0.5-0.9 percent at the time of writing this article. Asian markets also closed higher, with the Hong Kong's Hang Seng up 1 percent.

Back home, Nifty Bank (up 1 percent) and Metal indices (up 1.75 percent) outperformed other sectoral indices while Pharma and Realty indices closed marginally lower.

HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI and Axis Bank gained 1 percent each while IDBI Bank was down 3 percent as the Reserve Bank of India directed the bank to initiate Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) for Lanco Infratech under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

Lanco, amongst 12 NPA accounts to resolve on priority basis, is the first one to publicly announce that the NPA resolution process started at its end. Lanco Infratech and Amtek Auto were down 20 percent each. Bhushan Steel, Alok Industries, Electrosteel Steels, Jaypee Infra and Monnet Ispat fell 5-16 percent while Jyoti Structures (up 20 percent) and ABG Shipyard (up 4 percent) were gainers.

Tata Steel was the biggest gainer among Sensex stocks, up 3.4 percent as JP Morgan has maintained its overweight rating on the stock after the company announced monetisation of stake in Tata Motors. The Tata Group firm, on June 17, said it had proposed to sell 8,36,37,697 equity shares of face value of Rs 2 each of Tata Motors to Tata Sons.

Reliance Industries was the second leading contributor to Sensex' gains, up 1.5 percent after its subsidiary Jio added 11.2 crore subscribers in May, which was far higher than its peers.

Disclosure: Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.

Larsen and Toubro was up 1.6 percent on winning orders worth Rs 2,231 crore. Adani Ports jumped 3 percent after Moody's Investors Service revised to stable from negative the outlook on company's Baa3 issuer and senior unsecured rating.

Kotak Mahindra Bank and Tata Motors (DVR) closed marginally higher after addition in BSE Sensex index.

Dr Reddy's Labs shares were down 0.8 percent after the US Food and Drug Administration issued Form 483 issued with one observation to Srikakulam plant (SEZ) unit I.

Among others, ITC, TCS, Asian Paints, SBI and Hero Motocorp were up 1-1.5 percent while Infosys, Tata Motors, Sun Pharma and ONGC fell 0.5-1 percent.
The debt of Ukrainian households for heating services as of June 1, 2017 totaled UAH 3.8 billion, and 25% of which were formed consumers of public joint-stock company Kyivenergo, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Regional Development, Construction, Housing and Utilities Services Hennadiy Zubko has said.

"If we take debts of households, I am concerned about Kyiv city. 25% of all debts in the amount of UAH 3.8 billion as of June 1, was formed by Kyivenergo If we take income of Kyiv residents [UAH 8,751 as of early heating season], I worry about the state of payments. For example, in Rivne the [average] salary is UAH 4,500, and the level of payments is 112%," Zubko said at a phone meeting with participation of the Ukrainian prime minister in Kyiv on Monday.

He said that the issue of the debt of Kyiv residents should be worked out by managers of Kyivenergo.

"I think that this is the question not to Kyiv residents, but to Kyivenergo: how it works with the subscribers' departments, how it accrues and collects the money The price of gas is equal for all heating companies around the country. I would like to ask to work out the issue at the level of [Kyivenergo's] managers," he said.
A broker looks at a terminal while trading at a stock brokerage firm in Mumbai November 6, 2008. Indian shares fell 3.8 percent on Thursday to their lowest close in a week, caught in a broad global sell-off on fears of a deep U.S. recession, while higher-than-expected inflation data added to the pain late on. REUTERS/Arko Datta (INDIA) - RTXABJW

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) last week sent bankers the list of 12 stressed accounts that they must resolve through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), sources privy to the developments told CNBC-TV18.

The 12 accounts are Essar Steel, Bhushan Steel, Bhushan Power, Alok Industries, Electrosteel Steels, Jaypee Infratech, Lanco Infratech, Monnet Ispat, Jyoti Structures, ABG Shipyard, Amtek Auto and Era Infra, they said.

The share price of companies which are listed plunged on Friday soon after the news came on top business news channels. Some companies are not listed on exchanges which include names like Essar Steel and Bhushan Power.

Lenders have an exposure of more than Rs 5,000 crore to these accounts and more than 60 percent of which have been identified as non-performing assets. The RBI on Tuesday had said it had identified 12 stressed accounts that would need to be resolved via the IBC.

The total exposure to the companies stands at about Rs 2 lakh crore, in comparison with the gross NPA tally of Rs 7 lakh crore in the banking sector. Bhushan Steel with a gross debt of over Rs 44,000 crore is most likely the single largest exposure that lenders have on their books, Moneycontrol reported.

Referring these 12 accounts to NCLT for adjudicating insolvency and bankruptcy procedure will help banks to resolve bad asset issues. Many assets will be up for sale at a discounted price as bankruptcy code is aimed to resolve the bad assets problem and revive the company in a timely manner, Abnish Kumar Sudhanshu, Director & Research Head, Amrapali Aadya Trading & Investments told Moneycontrol.

On the technical front most of these stocks are trading at their lifetime lows and lacking investor interest. They will retaliate on significant development if any new investor comes in, he said.

The quoted prices for most of these companies reflect the heavily indebted nature of these enterprises, as well as the very risky nature of the investment. Leverage is a four-letter word when it comes to markets, and it works great on the upside but can kill a business on the downside, say, experts.

We would classify these stocks as speculations rather than investments, given the high degree of risk of going into insolvency and liquidation. Any investor holding positions in these companies is likely sitting on substantial losses, Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management told Moneycontrol.

The question that needs to be answered is whether the negotiation will lead to a restructuring of debt and a haircut to allow these entities to sustain as ongoing operating entities or if negotiations will lead to liquidation, he said.

In the case of liquidation, there will be a complete loss for equity holders. Sharma further added that being risk-averse investment advisors, we never recommend investments that carry the risk of complete loss of capital.

If negotiations lead to a haircut, and a sustainable operating business model, then some of these opportunities will be attractive investments, he said.

What should investors do?

All the stocks from the list are significantly beaten down counters. Some of them have not been traded on the exchanges for a while now.

In terms of trend, these stocks are in bearish trend on various time frames. The definition of Technical Analysis suggests riding on the trend till weight of evidence proves that trend has been reversed, Gaurav Ratnaparkhi, Senior Technical Analyst, Sharekhan told Moneycontrol.

The majority of these counters were out of favour for quite a long time and few were delisted or suspended from trading. There shouldnt be any further panic or pain for investors at this juncture as prices appeared to have already factored in this kind of event much earlier.

Bankers have been given 15 days to take legal recourse on the six stressed accounts to be admitted under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).

The 6 of the 12 companies, with a combined debt of about Rs 1.9 lakh crore, include Essar Steel, Bhushan Steel, Bhushan Power & Steel, Monnet Ispat, Alok Industries and Electrosteel Steels.

Stock like Bhushan Steel which doubled from panic bottom of Rs.32 registered in March 2016 are technical can be classified as somewhat stronger and hence investors can hold with a stop below 200-Day Moving Average whereas relatively new investors in these counters should immediately exit, Mazhar Mohammad, Chief Strategist  Technical Research & Trading Advisory, Chartviewindia.in told Moneycontrol.

As the entire metal sector is looking somewhat promising and suggesting more upsides individual scrips like Electro Steel Casting, Monet Ispat can also be held till 200-day moving averages are breached on a closing basis, he said.

Whereas counters like Jyoti Structures and ABG Shipyard which has surprisingly shown positive tick despite this kind of news should be exited on rallies, suggests Mohammad. In the case of Jyoti Structure investors should try to exit around 12.50 levels, he said.
An insurance policy is bought to secure the future, but what if the claim is rejected by the insurer?

Here are the steps to follow if the claim is rejected:

Approach the insurance company

-Reach out to the Grievance Redressal Officer (GRO) of the insurance company.

-Provide the complaint in writing along with the necessary support documents

-Always take a written acknowledgement of the complaint with the date.

The insurance company should resolve the grievances within 15 days.

However, if the insurer fails to resolve the grievance within the stipulated time, a policyholder can approach the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) within a year.

Approaching the IRDA

The complaint can be forwarded by email to complaints@irda.gov.in

Or, complaints can be mailed to the IRDAI head office situated in Hyderabad.

According to IRDA, a complaint should state clearly the name and address of the complainant, the name of the branch or office of the insurer against whom the complaint is made, the facts giving rise to the complaint, supported documents if any, the nature and extent of the loss caused to the complainant and the relief sought from the Insurance Ombudsman.

The Ombudsman gives his recommendation within one month if parties agree to a mediation; otherwise, an award is passed within three months from the date of receipt of all requirements from a complainant.

An insurance company has 30 days to comply with the award. However, if the complainant is unhappy with the award he or she can approach the consumer forum. The award is binding on insurance companies, though.

Integrated Grievance Management System (IGMS)

Besides these, IRDA has come up with an Integrated Grievance Management System. Policyholders can use this system to register and track their complaint, both with the insurer and the IRDA.

-Log in to igms.irda.gov.in and create a profile for registering a complaint.

-Fill in all the necessary details related to the grievance.

A complaint registered through IGMS flows to the insurers system as well as the IRDA repository.

The complainant would receive a confirmation email after registering the complaint along with IRDA token number which will be used by IRDA and Insurance Company for tracking of the complaint through IGMS.

Once a complaint is registered to the IGMS, the details of the complaint are passed on to respective insurance companies.

If the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution provided by Insurer, the complaint can be escalated for a review by IRDA for a potential violation of Regulations through IGMS.
President Pranab Mukherjee lamented the lack of healthcare infrastructure and staff in the country, particularly in the rural area, and expressed hope more investments would help bridge the gap.

After laying the foundation stone for a super speciality hospital here, he said creating better health infrastructure through investments has helped cure several diseases but "there remains a huge gap yet".

The president said, the country requires not only accessible but affordable medical facilities.

"Against the international norm of a doctor per thousand population, we have one doctor for 1,700 people in our country," he rued.

"No civilised society can tolerate this," he said.

The situation is more alarming in the rural India where the shortage of surgeons is estimated to the tune of 83 per cent. The overall shortage translates to 81.2 per cent as on 2015.

The president offered solutions to help overcome some of the challenges. He suggested the situation requires increasing the number of medical colleges and engagement of corporate sector, especially in the rural area.

He asked people to think about the kind of healthcare system they want - a commercial, profit-driven one or a system compatible with the socio-economic conditions of the society.

The president also condemned attacks on doctors, medical staff and vandalism of health institutions. "This is no way... If you can't trust doctors whom can you trust."

The region has witnessed protests by medical professionals over the issue in the recent past.

Mukherjee also visited 800-year-old Sri Krishna Temple in the Udupi.

The temple was renovated with wooden craft a month ahead of the presidential visit, said KR Shashank Bhatt, a disciple of the 88-year-old head priest at the temple.

Later, he also prayed at the Mookambika temple in Kollur, a liitle over 70 kilometres from here. The distance was covered by road.

Mookambika temple is the only temple dedicated to goddess Parvati. Goddess Mookambika is in the form of Jyotir-Linga which combines both Shakti and Shiva. Kollur is a small village of about 6 sq. kms in area at the foot of Western Ghats.

Udupi is considered a fertile ground for the banking sector and the birthplace of the Syndicate Bank and the Corporation Bank. Karnataka's coastal city is also known for its cuisines and temples.
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Global Human Capital Management (HCM) and payroll software provider Ramco Systems has bagged the "Highly Recommended Payroll Software Supplier of the Year 2017 Award".

Ramco Systems was awarded for providing innovative, fully integrated payroll solutions to the clients during the Global Payroll Association's Awards held in Amsterdam recently, the city headquartered company said in a statement.

"We are thrilled to receive the recognition from Global Payroll Asociation. Our ability to offer an integrated suite which brings Core HR, Time and Attendance, Talent Management, recruitment and analytics along with GlobalPayroll ona unified platform places us at a unique edge" Ramco Systems, CEO, Virender Aggarwal said.

The Global Payroll Association's second annual awards ceremony brings new and seasoned practioners who work in the global or domestic payroll industry. "The payroll awards are an important annual event to recognise the outstanding work of the global payroll community", Global Payroll Association, CEO, Melanie Pizzey said. Ramco received the "Highly Recommended accolade as HR and Payroll Software Supplier of the Year 2017" is testatement to the company's great work in providing customers with enabling technology, she added.

An international panel of judges selected winners across 17 categories related to global payroll and consulting, it said.
(Image: Shutterstock)

The government on Monday claimed that it has provided Rs 960 crore in fund commitment through its Startup India fund and close to 3,385 startups have benefited from the same.

The government released this data on the launch of the Startup India Hub, a centralised portal which will provide access to investors, mentors, founders and government authorities on a single platform.

According to the data, 1,333 startups have been recognized and about 39 have been given tax exemptions since January 2106 under the Start Up India initiative.

Out of the Rs 960 crore funding corpus, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) committed Rs 623.5 crores to 65 startups through funds of funds while 350 startups have benefited from Rs 154 crores committed by DBT India, the government said.

"We have seen that the number of applications saw a 3x jump ever since the definition of a startup was simplified last month," said Rajiv Aggarwal, Joint Secretary in the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP).

The government has revamped the definition of a startup and has now included companies which were incorporated seven years ago from five years ago, in earlier definition.

Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion's request for a credit guarantee investment scheme has also been approved by the Finance Ministry.

DIPP has asked for Rs 2000 crores for three years, for collateral-free loans for up to Rs 5 crores, Ramesh Abhishek, Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion.

Itll get cabinet approval by July end, Abhishek added.

The government is also planning a SAARC level startup meet in South Asia this year, Nirmala Sitharaman , Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Commerce & Industry said on the launch.
Bakery products are offered at a supermarket of Swiss retail group Coop in Zumikon, Switzerland. (Image: Reuters)

E-commerce and cloud computing giant Amazon will be shelling out USD 13.7 billion to buy American supermarket chain Whole Foods Markets making it its largest ever acquisition, the company announced last week.

This deal far surpasses Amazon's previous and largest acquisition - the takeover of e-commerce company Zappos for USD 1.2 billion in 2009. This Amazon's second big buyout this year. In March, this year Amazon acquired Dubai-based Souq, the largest e-commerce site in the Arab world for about USD 425 million.

The Whole Foods acquisition signifies Amazon's intent to disrupt the America grocery business. The company has already disrupted offline retail in various categories.

Amazon started its experiment with brick and mortar stores when it opened a store in Seattle called Amazon Books in November 2015.

A year and a month later, Amazon introduced its version of a friction-less physical shopping experience called Amazon Go which leveraged technology and AI to make waiting in queues redundant.

Grocery - A huge market waiting to be disrupted: Grocery is a huge market in the US. Sales worth USD 600 billion were recorded in 2015. According to World Economic Forum, Americans spend 6.4 percent of their household income on food.

With an online linkage, Amazon could easily disrupt the market as well as strengthen it category base. It is also expected that Amazon could shave off a few margins from the Whole Foods business to offer cheaper groceries and disrupt the market.

Revenue gain for Amazon, more consumer base: For a company worth USD 13.7 billion, Whole Foods' revenue in its last fiscal year ending Q3 '16 was USD 15.7 billion. On the other hand, Amazon raked in USD 136 billion in revenue in 2016. By buying Whole Foods, Amazon's revenue will get a bump up.

Although grocery industry is a USD 600 billion industry, only 2 percent of the annual sales are estimated to be made online. However, more and more consumers are becoming less vary of buying fresh food online, with millennials leading the change.

Sudden gain of brick mortar presence across the US: With the acquisition of Whole Foods Market, Amazon can bypass the tough grind of searching for suitable locations for its brick and mortar project.

The upmarket supermarket chain has about 460 stores in plummy urban locations across 43 states in the U.S.

All it now needs to do is overhaul these stores with the Amazon Go technology it has been testing for months and improve upon Whole Foods business model.

Deal could benefit Amazon's own logistics: Whole Foods Market warehouses could also double up as fulfillment centres for Amazon. The Whole Foods can make Amazon run its grocery delivery service, Amazon Fresh, more seamlessly.

Groceries would also bring a stickiness to the Amazon brand and the customer is likely to shop more stuff from the retailer. WholeFoods stores could also serve as pickup points for easier transportation of Amazon deliveries in neighborhoods.

Brick and Mortar grocery stores are here to stay: When it comes to products like fruits and vegetables, most consumers across the world still like to touch and feel the product they are purchasing, as its directly for consumption.

Delivery models, inventory-based, as well as hyperlocal, are more of a dud than a scud in this category in the US at least. Globally many companies have struggled in the online grocery category, as it involves faster delivery and lesser shelf life.

Tapping such brick and mortar stores is the only logical step if Amazon wants to become a retail giant.

After US, Amazon is apparently looking forward to disrupt the Indian grocery industry too. It is in talks to buy Indian online grocery company Big Basket and reportedly planning launch of an offline store.

The acquisition will help Amazon make a template for offline-online synergy which it could replicate in its key markets.

joseph.sebastian@nw18.com
Commodities LIVE: Rupee at 7-week high vs. USD, where is it headed?
Mayuresh Joshi of Angel Broking told CNBC-TV18, "A lot of positives have got played out and with the kind of numbers that Tata Steel had produced both in terms of an EBITDA per ton on the Indian operations as well as the European operations itself, very encouraging set of numbers. What happens in terms of resolution for its business sale in the UK is going to be a huge amount of relief in terms of how the money starts flowing in. However, in terms of their core performance, the performance has been exemplary."

"Again on the domestic front, as the Kalinganagar operations achieve full optimisation in terms of utilisation levels being reached in the next few quarters, Tata Steel probably is in a much advantageous position at this point of time. So, again I think steel realisations because of government intervention on the domestic front, did help a lot of steel companies including Tata Steel. However, as demand gradually starts coming back, Tata Steel is something that I would advise investors to hold on."

"My own sense is that within the metal space Hindalco is something that I will continue to prefer on declines. Novelis has been performing exceptionally well and that performance can very well continue with the auto component shipments expected to reach 25 percent in the next few quarters. They are deleveraging their balance sheet, interest payments are going down, the capex is quite manageable at USD 250 million odd over the next two years and the cash flows at USD 350-360 million will ensure that the Indian operations which are running at optimum capacity are duliated by Novelis. So, the sum of parts on a consolidated basis should improve as well. So from a bottom up approach any decline on Hindalco in my opinion becomes a very good buying opportunity," he said.
It seems that nationwide lockdown has not much impacted the fertilizer sector. In May 2020, the Indian Fertiliser industry has witness sales growth of 25% to 5 million tonnes as compared to 4 million tonnes in the same month last year. Coromandel International and Chambal Fertilisers have seen major sales growth in the sector. The research firm Prabhudas Lilladher is bullish on 5 stocks in the sector and among that they expect stock Insecticides India may see the upside of 82 percent, report dated June 09, 2020.

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Sudarshan Sukhani of s2analytics.com told CNBC-TV18, "Most good quality largecaps are buying opportunities. That is the reason why we are upbeat on the Nifty or you could look at it the other way round. However, among the midcaps also, there are a lot of stocks that are now coming out of that mild 5-10 day correction that we saw. So the first of the buying idea is Adani Ports which is already willing to go higher. It was in a trading range as the Nifty was and now appears to have broken out of that range."

"Second is HDFC Bank. It was in a narrow range for two to three days and probably is looking at higher levels. A short sell is Oil India. This market is clearly not available for short selling but if you do want to, here is a stock that is not doing anything. So, mainly focus on the buying and stay with the strong stocks."

"Reliance Industries is a buy for everyone who does not have this stock in their portfolio. We are looking at much higher and much more ambitious levels. I cant comment on a day trade today but it could simply stall. However, for anyone it is a buy," he added.

: Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.
Ashwani Gujral of ashwanigujral.com told CNBC-TV18, "One particular stock that comes to mind and that has broken down last 10-15 days is Coffee Day Enterprises . That has been declining for a while and today, has had a 6-7 percent move. Chances are, that has bottomed out. So we could see Rs 340-350 on Coffee Day, so that is probably a bit of a medium-term idea."He further added, " Vedanta , for the moment is a buy with a stoploss of Rs 236, target of Rs 252. Brigade Enterprises is a buy with a stoploss of Rs 290, target of Rs 306. HSIL is a buy with a stoploss of Rs 387, target of Rs 410.""A lot of erstwhile outperforming financials are doing poorly which include Indiabulls Housing Finance LIC Housing Finance . So that way, it is a churn. Maybe Muthoot Finance needs to fall to about Rs 430-435 which is its 20-day moving average before it finds support. So the leadership is extremely poor other than Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Reliance , etc. I do not think the market has much to move on in terms of broader market participation. So it remains a sideways move where once shorts get covered, there is where it will follow through.": Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd." Jindal Steel & Power is a stock which generally tends to have lots of long and short positions and whenever metals tends to pick up, this one tends to rise. But, overall it has had multiple bottoms around Rs 115. I think next target here could be Rs 135. Once we get out of Rs 135 then we start a move towards Rs 165-170. But Rs 135 seems to be a tough area to cross," he added.
Ukraine has increased gas inventories in underground storage 34% since the end of the heating season, according to operational data from Ukrtransgaz.

The inventories amounted to 10.851 billion cubic meters (bcm) on June 17, up from 8.1 bcm on March 22.

The current inventories are 14.9% more than on June 17, 2016 (9.443 bcm), 3.5% less than on June 17, 2015 (11.246 bcm) and 22.8% less than on June 17, 2014 (14.052 bcm), according to Interfax-Ukraine calculations.

Ukraine injected 807.71 mcm of gas into underground storage in the first 17 days of June (47.51 mcm a day on average), compared with 51.86 mcm a day on average in May.

If Ukraine injects about 50 mcm a day into underground storage in July-September 2017, it would enter the 2017/2018 heating season with about 16 bcm in storage. It had 14.7 bcm in storage when the 2016/2017 heating season began in mid-October 2016.

At the end of February 2017, Yuriy Vitrenko, the director for business development of Naftogaz Ukrainy, forecasted that as far as gas storage is concerned, the company would pursue the same conservative plans for the upcoming heating season as it did for the 2016/2017 heating season.

Ukraine imported 35.078 mcm of gas on June 17, 2017, of which 24.062 mcm from Slovakia, 7.554 mcm from Hungary and 3.462 mcm from Poland. In general, Ukraine imported 500.6 mcm of gas from Europe in the first 17 days of June.

Gas production in Ukraine on June 17 was 57.008 mcm, of which Ukrgazvydobuvannia produced 41.831 mcm, Ukrnafta - 3.255 mcm and other companies - 12.002 mcm. Overall production in the first 17 days of June was 966 bcm.

Transit via Ukraine's gas transport system was 4.319 bcm in the period June 1-17 or 254 mcm a day on average.
business Hold Tata Steel, buy Indiabulls Real Estate: Ashwani Gujral Ashwani Gujral of ashwanigujral.com is of the view that one may hold Tata Steel.
mployees walk along a corridor in the Infosys campus in Bangalore (Image: Reuters)

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Infosys was under selling pressure on Monday after a leading brokerage highlighted the leadership issues at the company and the over-centralisation with its top management.

JPMorgan, in a note to clients, highlighted that Infosys had announced that its President Sandeep Dadlani had stepped down from the company. He was the head, retail, CPG and logistics, manufacturing, US and chairman  EdgeVerve.

Our conversations and channel checks both within Infosys and outside indicate that he is well regarded and his contributions seen as significant to Infosys over the years. That a well-paid executive with such a high profile has called time on his career in Infosys is both surprising and worrying to us, the research firm wrote in its note.

Further, it added that it had assumed stability at the firm given that Vishal Sikka was at the helm for nearly three years now. Senior management exits after a CEO has taken over may not be unusual, it said, adding that to see valued executives leave three years into a CEOs tenure appear worrying unless the departing executives get a worthwhile career boost such as a CEO responsibility.

The potential risk, JPMorgan said, was due to over-centralization of responsibility at the top.

In large firms, vesting P&L responsibility of multiple units in the hands of a few senior executives or them handling heterogeneous KRAs can lead to sub-optimal performance of some units besides elevating the key man risk, the report added. The departure of a key executive requires refilling at multiple levels or roles, it added. We would suggest Infosys has to get more de-centralized, the report added.

At 15:28 hrs Infosys was quoting at Rs 929.90, down Rs 10.60, or 1.13 percent on the BSE. It touched an intraday high of Rs 940.45 and an intraday low of Rs 928.00.
Tata Steel

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Tata Steel shares rallied 3 percent intraday Monday as JP Morgan has maintained its overweight rating on the stock after the company announced monetisation of stake in Tata Motors.

The Tata Group firm, on June 17, said it has proposed to sell 8,36,37,697 equity shares of face value of Rs 2 each of Tata Motors to Tata Sons Limited.

The transaction is expected to be executed on or after June 23, 2017 at or around the prevailing price on the date of proposed sale, subject to no material market movements in price since the date of this disclosure, it added.

At Friday's market close, the Tata Motors' stake would be worth Rs 3,800 crore or 7.7 percent of Tata Steel's market capitalisation.

According to the research house, this is another positive as the monetisation of the stake provides Tata Steel with additional balance sheet flexibility.

"While the company has over the past few years consistently monetised group stakes, in our view the timing for the current one is interesting and in our view likely signals progress on the UK pension issue for which a payout is required (550 million pound) and also potentially progress on the KPO Phase 2 expansion plan," JPMorgan said.

Tata Steel reduced its debt materially in Q4FY17. It has achieved closure of the defined benefit pension scheme at Tata Steel UK. This has resulted in a non-cash charge of Rs 3,600 crore. The key commercial terms with the pension trustees have been agreed in principle and include a one-time payment of 550 million pound and the provision of a 33 percent equity stake in Tata Stel UK.

Post this, Tata Steel UK would sponsor a new scheme which would likely start with a surplus. All this would take time given the detailed documentation and approvals. Once these are in place, Tata Steel would likely start the process of due diligence on the potential JV of its European business with TKA. On Phase 2 KPO expansion (3/5MT), Tata Steel had highlighted that it has not yet taken a decision, the brokerage house said.

While retaining overweight rating on the stock with a target price of Rs 690, it considered Tata Steel to be ideally positioned as a stock given the confluence of global industry tailwinds (lower Chinese steel exports), domestic tailwinds (policy support with multi-year steel price protection, improving demand outlook) and company restructuring (likely JV for the European steel business).

At 14:48 hours IST, the stock price was quoting at Rs 516.85, up Rs 14.75, or 2.94 percent on the BSE.

Posted by Sunil Shankar Matkar
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Moneycontrol Research

Swelect Energy Systems wears its smallcap credentials lightly. Yet, the Chennai-based company has been one of the early birds to cash in on the boom in the renewables energy space. In 2011, it forayed into the alternative energy space, building on its 20-year experience in the power business.

The following year, the company sold its inverter or UPS business to France-based Legrand group for Rs 829 crore. Even after paying Rs 135 crore as tax and another Rs 150 crore by way of dividend, Swelect is still sitting on a cash and cash equivalent of over Rs 400 crore on an equity of Rs 700 crore.

Huge Cash but Cautious Deployment

Thankfully, the company is in no hurry to use up its cash. With every intention of deploying the cash judiciously, the company, in 2013, made a small acquisition of Rs 22 crore (49 percent stake with management control) in HHV Solar Technologies, which is a solar module manufacturer based out of Bangalore. Swelect, which was until then present in EPC (or engineering, procurement and construction) business, expanded its offerings to include solar panels. Over the years HHV has reaffirmed its faith in the bet. HHV had an annual installed capacity of 40 MW, which after commissioning the third line of production in Q3FY16, has been expanded to 100 MW.

Foundry Losses on Wane, Solar the Bright Spot

While solar energy systems and services (EPC) account (FY17 revenue Rs 282 crore) for close to 80 percent of the revenue, it is also present in the foundry (iron casting, machines, alloy casting) business. However, the latter is making losses.

While this may be a drag on the business, as an investor, the comfort comes from the fact that this business employs only 10 percent of the total capital employed in the overall business. Moreover, this business is now being restructured and the losses of this business are falling.

In recent times, the company has amalgamated the two different units of the foundry business to leverage business synergies and bring down the overall costs. In the foundry business, as against an EBIT loss of Rs 2.72 crore in FY16, the loss was down to Rs 1.81 crore in FY17.

Moreover, barring foundry business, the solar business is starting to show good results. In Q4FY17, the company reported standalone (87 percent of business) sales of Rs 79 crore, which was up by 95 percent on a year-on-year basis and 180 percent increase compared to its December 2016 quarter. Since the business enjoys huge operating leverage, its profits jumped to Rs 13 crore.

Valuations

On a conservative basis, even if 80 percent of Q4FY17 profitability of Rs 13 crore is achieved for the next four quarters, the company should be reporting a profit of close to Rs 40 crore in the next fiscal year.

One useful valuation matrix is enterprise value to operating profit or EBITDA. With cash of close to Rs 327 crore (taking conservatively 80 percent of the mutual fund investments of Rs 251 and cash and bank balance of Rs 158 crore reported in FY17) and market capitalisation of Rs 483 crore, the enterprise value works out to Rs 156 crore which is about 5 times its FY17 core operating profit. On a consolidated FY17 sales of Rs 247 crore and net profit of Rs 21.63 crore, this looks like an extremely reasonable valuation for a company that is debt free and operates in a growth industry.

All eyes are now on how the company plans to use its cash. Today, the market is not ascribing any huge value to its core business (trading close to its cash in the books). If the company fails to deploy this cash well, it could turn out to be a huge value trap.

However, it is a relief that its books are audited by one of the large audit firms SR Batliboi. We also take note of the fact that promoters own over 64 percent of the company. Hence, rational use of capital will also be in the interests of the promoter. Amongst the well-known investors who have reposed faith in the company are the likes of Anil Kumar Goel and HDFC Mutual Fund.
Infosys

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Moneycontrol Research

There seems to be no end to the troubles in Infosys. As though the tough external environment was not enough the companys management under Vishal Sikka has to fight battles at various fronts.

Old promoters of the company are at loggerheads with the management on the issue of compensation, among other things. Though the attrition in the lower and middle level software engineers has, to a large extent, been managed, senior management continues to leave the company.

The latest big name to leave the company is Americas Head and Global Head of Manufacturing and Retail unit, Sandeep Dadlani. This exit is seen as impacting the companys performance as Dadlani was one of the four presidents and was responsible for 34 percent of Infosys revenue.

According to a report, out of the 12 executive Vice Presidents who were elevated to the post when Sikka took over, nine have left the company.

Sikkas management skills are being questioned in some circles. However, these exits also signal the change taking place in the company where the old guards are not in synch with Sikkas management style.

Though there has been a high number of exits at the senior level, Infosys seems to have managed to hold on to the clients. Credit for which has to be given to Infosys image in the market and Sikka and the senior teams ability to retain the clients.

Sikka has worked towards changing the focus of the company. By monitoring just one matrix of revenue per employee, the focus of the company is being shifted from one doing generic body-shopping work to higher end stuff.

In an interview Co-chairman Ravi Venkatesan pointed out that now 35 percent of the employees are working on services that contribute 45 percent of revenue and these service offerings are growing at high double-digit growth rate with a very high margin.

Revenue per employee in some of these services is USD 70,000 as compared to an average of USD 51,363 for the company. Sikka has set himself a target of USD 80,000 for revenue per employee. Incidentally, Infosys presently has the highest revenue per employee when compared to TCS and Wipro but is nearly 10 percent lower than Cognizant which focuses more on consulting and technology business.

This shift in the quality of work is perhaps the root cause of the problem. Promoters of the company and old guards have been used to the traditional work culture and compensation.

Prabal Basu Roy, Fund Manager and a Sloan Fellow from London Business School in an article points out that apart from Sikka the entire leadership of all the top Indian IT services companies is devoid of necessary skill-sets needed to meet the difficult challenges facing the industry. Erstwhile chief financial officers, accountants and operational managers cannot be expected to have the combination of core technological perspective and strategic capabilities necessary to face the current onslaught he writes.

The friction caused by hiring new highly paid employees to meet the current challenge with the older lot who are doing traditional work is what is causing the smoke screen to grow bigger, both for the senior employees and the promoters.

Infosys has to hire employees for new technologies from niche companies or from companies that are bigger than it. Such employees naturally come at a higher cost causing not only wage disparity related friction. Ventakesan in the interview said that the management underestimated the cultural challenges of transforming itself.

What seems to hurt the management more is questions are being raised on every major decision of theirs by the founders. Interference by the activist shareholders (read promoters) has led to Infosys management highlighting it as a risk factor for their management.

Senior employees quitting a big organisation like Infosys with 200,000 employee has a momentary impact, but taking the freedom away from the management and questioning their every decision can have a far-reaching impact. At a time when the management needs the support of its employees and founders, Sikka and his team are wasting their time to calm down bruised egos.

Infosys was always looked up by the IT sector as a role model. Roy correctly points out in the article that failure of Infosys will not portend well for the Indian IT industry in general as there will be no model to copy if Infosys does not succeed.
A man works at the site of the Thilawa Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project at Thilawa May 8, 2015. REUTERS/Soe Zeya Tun/File Photo

The government will likely award cheaper housing loans and reduced registration fee to energy-efficient green houses in a bid to take forward its climate change goals.

The proposal to incentivise energy-efficient or green buildings emerged from the discussions going on to create the Energy Conservation Building Code for Residential Sector (ECBC-R), government officials told The Times of India.

The ECBC-R 2017 is scheduled for release on Monday by Piyush Goyal, Minister for power, coal and renewable energy. It will follow the basic structure of the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) 2007 which was meant for commercial buildings only, TOI reported.

Provision to cover existing houses which are ready to adopt an energy-efficient system is also a possibility.

Green building of houses would mean lesser carbon foot print emerging from resources like land, water, energy, and waste. It would be in tandem with the National Mission on Sustainable Habitat launched under the governments National Action Plan on Climate Change. A study report of the mission states its primary focus to be on energy efficiency, water supply, and municipal solid waste management, etc. in terms of urban planning. It also prescribes upgrading existing framework such as ECBC to re-align urban housing to regulations.

The proposal, which is part of an ongoing government discussion, will be at per with the governments larger plan to cut down on carbon emission. Ahead of the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015, India had declared its plan to reduce carbon emission intensity by 33-35% from 2005 levels within 15 years along with a shift to non-fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. Currently, the country contributes 6 percent of total global CO2 (Greenhouse Gas) emission.

Meanwhile, the government has launched schemes like Ujala to replace old filament and CFL bulbs with energy-saving LED lights. It is trying to promote solar water heating. There is already a capital subsidy given to residential units using solar panels on rooftop for main power source, among other things.

Earlier in May, the government also funded Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology for a three-year project on training people involved in urban development. The training project covering states of Mahrashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, is aimed at promoting sustainable habitat development.
WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR

NDA has declared Ram Nath Kovind as its Presidential candidateKovind is Bihar's Governor, a Dalit leader and an experienced parliamentarianNDA ally Shiv Sena is undecided on backing KovindWest Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee will not support the NDA's candidate

Congress-led UPA will put up its own candidate later this week

18:00 An electoral college will vote for the President. Here's the current position, with NDA just

short of the halfway mark:

5:35 pm Kovind is reportedly on his way to Delhi now to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

5:15 pm Wondering what the political reaction to the NDA's pick has been? Here's a round-up.

4:54 pm By mentioning ideology, Mayawati was possibly taking a dig at Kovind's RSS background.

4:50 pm Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati is speaking now. She says she is not satisfied with Ram Nath Kovind's political ideology, but cannot reject his Dalit background. She says she will wait and watch if UPA announces a Dalit candidate as well.

4:40 pm CPM leader Sitaram Yechury says only once in the history of Independent India has the President of India been elected uncontested. Is that a hint that there will definitely be an Opposition candidate?

4:25 pm Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is believed to have congratulated his state's Governor Ram Nath Kovind on being chosen as the NDA's candidate. However, it is unclear whether the Janata Dal (United) leader will lend his support to Kovind.

4:15 pm CNN-News18, quoting sources, says the UPA will put up its own candidate after meeting Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee on Thursday.

4:05 pm Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath appeals to all parties to support "son of UP" Kovind.

4:01 pm CPM leader Sitaram Yechury says his party will take a call after a meeting of Opposition parties on Thursday.

3:58 pm Biju Janata Dal MP Jay Panda says he served alongside Ram Nath Kovind in the Rajya Sabha and he came across as "calm, focussed & thorough".

Support from the BJD is crucial for Nath's prospects in the election.

3:49 pm Here's more on what Mamata Banerjee had to say: "In order to support someone, we must know the person. Who is this candidate?"

3:47 pm Azad says UPA will hold a meeting on Thursday to take a final decision on its presidential candidate.

3:46 pm Congress says it has 'nothing to say' but Azad says the UPA expected that the NDA would speak to them before announcing its candidate.

3:45 pm Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee says she opposes Ram Nath Kovind's candidature.

3:43 pm Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad is now addressing a press conference. He says the party won't comment on the NDA's presidential candidate.

3:40 pm Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Aggarwal says his party is still undecided and will consult the UPA.

3:35 pm Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu says his Telegu Desam Party will put its weight behind Kovind. As does food minister and Lok Janshakti Party leader Ram Vilas Paswan

Both the TDP and the LJP are NDA allies.

3:30 pm BJP President Amit Shah tweets that he believes that all political parties will come forward and support the NDA's candidate for the President's office.

3:20pm NCP leader Majeed Memon says the party will evaluate whether Kovind fits the profile of someone with "constitutional and secular values".

3:17 pm CPI leader D Raja says the opposition parties will now sit down and decide their next step.

3:14 pm Prime Minister Narendra Modi has tweeted about Kovind's candidature. Here's what he has to say:

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmer's son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor & marginalised.

With his illustrious background in the legal arena, Shri Kovind's knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised.

3:07 pm Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut says the party has yet to decide on supporting Ram Nath Kovind for President. The NDA ally says it wanted either RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat or agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan to be nominated for the post.

3:03 pm CNN-News18 reporting that Kovind is now on a flight to Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

2:54 pm With the TRS saying it will support Kovind, it should be smooth sailing for him in the Presidential election as the NDA only needs the support of a neutral party like the TRS to ensure it crosses the halfway mark in the Electoral College.

That said, it is still unclear whether all the NDA allies are on board.

2:50 pm Congress leader Pramod Tiwari says the party will now sit down and discuss whether it will support Kovind or name its own candidate.

2:44 pm: Want to know more about the reclusive BJP leader who could be the next President of India? Head here.

2:41 pm: Here's how the President is chosen:

On July 24, Pranab Mukherjees term as the President of India will come to an end. The Election Commission of India has already started the process for filling nominations.

The last date for filing of nominations is June 28 followed by scrutiny on June 29, and the last date for withdrawal is July 1.

The election will take place on July 17 and counting of votes will be on July 20.

The ruling BJP-led NDA government at the Centre is well placed in these polls and is the single-largest party in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

Names of politicians such as Sushma Swaraj, Draupadi Murmu, LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Gopalkrishna Gandhi were doing the rounds for the presidential race.

2.36 pm: Our main report on this development is up. Check it out.

2.34 pm: More reactions coming in: TRS says it would back Kovind. It says one of the reasons they are willing to support him is because he is a Dalit.

2.30 pm: The report says that Ram Nath Kovind shies away from the spotlight and actively avoids controversy. He was hardly ever seen on TV even as he was the BJP's national spokesperson at one point.

He is said to have lived a spartan life before he became MP. He is also considered close to Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

2.26 pm: This is not the first time the BJP has sprung a surprise with Kovind's name. In August 2015, after Nitish Kumar came back to power in the state, the central government appointed him as Bihar governor without consulting the state government.

As this Telegraph report says, the first reaction in Bihar was: "Kovind who?"

2.21 pm: "Yesterday, Amit Shah met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to seek support for the Presidential candidate. We asked for a name but he did not have one," says Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut.

"We will discuss the candidature internally. Thackeray will announce his decision today in the evening."

2.17 pm: Shah says that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and conveyed to them the NDA's choice.

2.14 pm: Interestingly, Amit Shah did not say whether the candidate is a consensus candidate. He says NDA allies were 'informed' of the decision. Could this mean that some allies -- especially those who tend to bicker, like the Shiv Sena -- are on-board with the decision?

2.10 pm: Here's a brief profile on Kovind.

- A Dalit leader, he was the former chief of the BJP Dalit Morcha.

- He is a former Supreme Court lawyer.

- He has been a former member of Parliament from UP.

The NDA has decided on Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate, BJP chief Amit Shah today said at a press conference.
New Delhi: File photo of Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind who was announced as NDA's candidate for the Presidential poll on Monday. PTI Photo (PTI6_19_2017_000040B)

A crusader for the rights of the weaker sections of the society, 71-year-old Ram Nath Kovind is a lawyer-turned-politician, whose choice as the BJP-led NDA's presidential candidate is being seen as a political masterstroke.

The reason - many parties would not like to oppose a Dalit being elected to the country's highest office.

A champion of the scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, OBC, minority and women's rights from his student days, Kovind is the present Governor of Bihar.

A former president of the BJP Dalit Morcha (1998-2002), Kovind has also served as a national spokesperson of the party. He was also the president of the All-India Koli Samaj.

On August 8, 2015, he was appointed as the Governor of Bihar.

A commerce graduate and LLB from the Kanpur University in Uttar Pradesh, Kovind has been a successful lawyer.

He practised in the Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and was the central government's standing counsel in the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993.

Kovind became an Advocate-on-Record of the Supreme Court of India in 1978.

He practised in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court for about 16 years until 1993.

He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh and served two consecutive terms till March, 2006.

In Parliament, Kovind was a member of many important committees, especially the parliamentary committee on the welfare of scheduled castes/tribes, the parliamentary panel on social justice and empowerment and the committee on law and justice.

Kovind joined a stir by SC/ST employees when in 1997 certain orders were issued by the Centre which adversely affected their interests.

These orders were later declared null and void after the passage of three amendments in the Constitution during the rule of the first NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

As an advocate, Kovind took the lead in providing free legal aid to weaker sections, especially the SC/ST women, and poor and needy girls under the aegis of the Free Legal Aid Society in Delhi.

Kovind is also known for his work in the field of education. He has served as member on the board of management of the Dr BR Ambedkar University, Lucknow.

He was also a member of the board of governors of the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata.

He has also represented India in the United Nations and addressed the UN General Assembly in October, 2002.

As a member of Parliament, Kovind visited Thailand, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Germany, Switzerland, France, United Kingdom and the USA.

As an MP, Kovind emphasised on the development of basic infrastructure for education in rural areas and helped in construction of school buildings under the MPLAD scheme.

Kovind was born on October 1, 1945 at Kanpur (rural) in Uttar Pradesh. He was married to Savita in 1974 and the couple have a son and a daughter.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman has said Ukraine has lost 1% of GDP from the unauthorized blockade of uncontrolled territories in Donetsk and Luhansk region, and said it is important not to allow repetition of such attempts, including blockade of rail transportation from Russia.

"As a result of the blockade Ukraine lost 1% of its GDP. It is hundreds of millions of hryvnias, billions of hryvnias that could be paid as wages, could further strengthen the national currency..." the prime minister said at a conference call on the preparations for the winter in Kyiv on Monday.

He stressed that the blockade resulted in the loss of control over all the assets in the territories beyond government control. And now the money previously used to pay taxes to Ukraine's budget, will be used to support the illegal armed groups activities, the premier added.
BJP president Amit Shah held a close-door meeting with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as part of the ruling party's efforts to ensure support of allies in the presidential election.

According to a source in the Shiv Sena, Shah told Thackeray that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide the NDA's candidate for the highest constitutional post.

To this, the Sena chief said they would take a call on support after the BJP reveals its choice for president, the source said.

Shah, along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, visited Thackeray's residence 'Matoshree' and held a close-door meeting, which started around 10 am and lasted nearly 75 minutes.

BJP state unit chief Raosaheb Danve, who had gone to Thackeray's residence, and senior Sena MP Sanjay Raut, a close aide of the party president, were not part of the meeting.

According to the source, during the meeting Shah appealed to the Sena to support the BJP's nominee for the president's post.

However, Thackeray said he would like to know the name of the ruling party's candidate before deciding on its support in the July 17 presidential election.

The source said, "Shah said the name of the candidate would be announced by Narendra Modi. We are hopeful of receiving Shiv Sena's support.

"Thackeray told Shah that his party should declare the name then only the Shiv Sena can decide whether to extend the support."

The meeting comes a day after the BJP chief, who is here on a three-day visit to strengthen the party organisation in the state, said his party would consult its allies before finalising the NDA's presidential candidate.

The Shiv Sena, the BJP's oldest ally, had earlier said it may choose an "independent" path in the election to the highest constitutional office.

It had backed Congress nominees -- Pratibha Patil and Pranab Mukherjee -- in the last two presidential elections.

The Sena, which has often been critical of the BJP and the Modi government, recently suggested the name of M S Swaminathan, the father of India's Green Revolution, for President.

Asked about Fadnavis' remark that the BJP was prepared for snap Assembly elections, in an apparent reference to the continued strain in ties with the Shiv Sena, Shah yesterday said, "What he meant was that if mid-term polls are forced on us, we are ready to fight."

On the recent farm loan waiver announced by the Maharashtra government, Shah had said through it the state was offering relief to farmers.

"The burden of loan waiver will be on the government and not banks," he had said.
Kovind_Ram

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of party leaders to decide on supporting the NDA's choice for President, party MP Sanjay Raut said today.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhavji after the NDA's presidential candidate was decided in the BJP's Parliamentary Board meeting. Shah sought the Sena's support for Ram Nath Kovind," Raut told reporters here.

"Uddhavji told him that he will convene a meeting of the party leaders to arrive on a decision and convey our answer to him in one-two days," he said

The Sena MP said Thackeray may "answer many questions later this evening" when he will address the party workers on the Shiv Sena's 51st foundation day.

"We had suggested two names for the post. One was of (RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat. If they had a problem with that, we wanted (eminent agriculturist) M S Swaminathan. But since they have chosen some other name, the party will convey to the BJP our decision soon," Raut said.

The BJP today named Dalit leader and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's candidate for the post of president.

Kovind is likely to file his papers on June 23, Shah said in Delhi after a nearly two-hour meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Board.
BJP President Amit Shah on Monday announced that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind will be National Democratic Alliances presidential candidate for the upcoming presidential election.

Here is how parties and leaders from across the board have reacted to the announcement:

Congress: UPA will hold a meeting on Thursday to take a final decision on its presidential candidate. Will field its own nominee.

TRS: Telangana Chief Minister and TRS chief KC Rao has extended support to NDAs presidential candidate after speaking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

TMC: Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee says she opposes Ram Nath Kovind's candidature.

SP: Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Aggarwal says his party is still undecided and will consult the UPA.

TDP: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu says his Telegu Desam Party will put its weight behind Kovind.

LJP: Lok Janshakti Party leader Ram Vilas Paswan says that it will support the NDA nominee.

NCP: Nationalist Congress Party leader Majeed Memon says the party will evaluate whether Kovind fits the profile of someone with "constitutional and secular values".

CPI: CPI leader D Raja says the opposition parties will now sit down and decide their next step.

JDU: JDU leader Sharad Yadav has said that the Oppositions Presidential nominee will be decided in the Opposition meet on June 22. He also said that the name of NDA nominee Ram Nath Kovind will also be discussed.

NDA ally and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut says the party has yet to decide on supporting Ram Nath Kovind for President. The NDA ally says it wanted either RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat or agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan to be nominated for the post.
New Delhi: File photo of Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind who was announced as NDA's candidate for the Presidential poll on Monday. PTI Photo (PTI6_19_2017_000040B)

The Telugu Desam Party, an ally of the NDA, today welcomed the BJP's decision to put up Bihar Governor and Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind as the alliance's candidate for the presidential election.

TDP president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu hailed Kovind's candidature as "the right choice" for the highest constitutional post and pledged his party's full support to him.

"You have chosen a right candidate for the top post. An intellectual with high values belonging to the Dalit community is very apt in all respects for the president's post," Naidu told Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called him this afternoon to inform him about Kovind's choice.

A communication from the chief minister's office said Naidu announced that the TDP would extend complete support for Kovind's candidature.

The communication also said that the prime minister requested Naidu to garner Trinamool Congress' support for the NDA candidate.

Naidu assured the prime minister that he would contact TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee upon her return from her foreign visit, the communication said.
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nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Not many instruments dominated and divided opinions from central banks and financial institutions alike as bitcoin and blockchain did over the past year. While the bitcoin price-levels have hit record highs, blockchain isn't far behind  so much that it threatens to disrupt cross-border payments ecosystem which is dominated by the likes of Western Union and MoneyGram.

Bitcoin is the world's first cryptocurrency and blockchain the underlying software that empowers it. While bitcoin  a revolutionary idea  is still a topic of harsh criticism, people consider blockchain to be a more intriguing phenomenon, capable of reshaping banking and finance.

From 2007 to 2016 global remittances to developing countries increased by 51 percent, as per a recently released UN report. "By reducing average costs to below 3 percent globally, remittance families would save an additional USD 20 billion annually," the report says.

The average cost of sending remittances now stands, a decrease from 9.8 percent since 2008. However, transaction costs have remained essentially flat over the past few years and are unacceptably high in many low-volume corridors, according to the report.

India was the top remittance receiver in 2016, where Indians working abroad sent home USD 62.7 billion.

Going by the average of 7.45 percent for sending money home, around USD 4.6 billion was spent as costs by Indians in 2016.

"The basic elements of the current value transfer process have been in place for over 150 years," a World Economic Forum report said in 2015.

Given the present cumbersome money transfer model, the cost incurred is huge and this is where the blockchain comes as it can exponentially reduce this cost.

What is blockchain?

Blockchain technology, also known as a distributed ledger, is a software which enables data sharing across a network of computers. Being distributed in nature, each user shares the same 'ledger' which keeps the record of transactions happening over it. This brings more transparency and reduces the need for many middle men to process a transaction.

Conducting international money transfers through distributed ledger technology could provide real time settlement at negligible costs.

By removing intermediaries, lengthy documentation, and the need for verifications at various steps, the average time to complete a cross-border transaction can come down to a few seconds from current three to five business days.

The infographic below explains best how much cost one can save while sending USD 500 from the US to India.

Earlier this year the Reserve Bank of Indias research arm, IDRBT released a report which said that the time is ripe for blockchain technology adoption in India and it has tested the technology for core banking processes in the country.

Indian private banks like Yes Bank, Axis Bank and ICICI Bank have already implemented blockchain technology into their processes to test overseas transaction settlements.
RN Bhaskar

Hopefully, the assurances on the cattle slaughter ban by the government before the Supreme Court of India on June 15 will help it to focus more on economic development than on cattle related issues (Why the cattle slaughter ban is a bad idea & mirrors another fundamentalist streak).

Hopefully, it will finally allow the milk, meat and leather sectors to remain vibrant industries in the rural economy sector. Collectively, they generate wealth, rural employment and foreign exchange as well. And all of them are interlinked, which somehow, short-sighted policymakers often forget.

But before we move to that part, it is good to take into account two factors.

First, India has the largest cattle population in the world. This includes both cows and buffaloes. Second, the milk industry in India is gradually being dominated by buffaloes, and not by cows. True, buffaloes currently account for just 33 percent of cattle (though its share in cattle population has been growing rapidly). But when it comes to production of milk, they account for 55 percent of the total milk production in the country.

Things could have panned out differently. But over the years, squeamishness over cow slaughter has reduced the resale price that a non-lactating cow could fetch. Add to this the higher price commanded by buffaloes milk (on account of its higher fat content), and the higher resale value of buffaloes (because till recently there was no law that prevented sale and slaughter of buffaloes). Farmers increasingly opted for buffaloes instead of cows. Not surprisingly, the ratio of cows to buffaloes has been under threat.

Thus, when the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified new rules under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act there was a howl of fury. These laws affected buffaloes as well. It was to challenge this and other laws that various parties filed appeals before various courts. That led to the government clarification before the Supreme Court on June 15, 2017.

The howl of fury had three reasons.

First, it affected some very large business interests  especially of people who belonged to the slaughter and leather industries.

Second, it threatened to render countless millions of people unemployed because both industries  slaughter and leather -- are large and labour- intensive. This time, the protests of the rich had the backing of a large mass of people whose jobs could have been at stake.

Third, it affected the eating lifestyles of people in states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, West Bengal and other states in the North East. And since backward communities were also involved  both as labour and as consumers -- there was a real danger of this protest turning into a political backlash. That fear, and the court hearings, finally compelled the government to offer an olive branch.

One oft-heard justification of the government was that the new rules were meant to curb smuggling of cattle across Indias borders. Really? If cattle is being smuggled out of India, so what? It should be smuggling into India that should be a problem. That is when a country loses foreign exchange. It also runs the risk of genetic pollution and contamination. If other countries want our animals, India should be exporting them and earning money and creating jobs. Moreover, buffaloes did not involve religious sentiments either. Somewhere, somehow, economics appears to have run astray.

The fact is that meat is not only meant for domestic consumption but is also a major export industry (see table 1). And much of the meat comes from buffaloes. That explains the absence of any howl of protest when transport and slaughter of cows were banned. But now they would affect buffaloes, hence jobs and money. The resultant fury was enormous.

After all, the manner in which India has managed to create a market for buffalo meat exports is truly amazing. Conventionally, the market for beef was restricted to cows meat (See table 2). It was the native genius and dexterity of the Indian entrepreneur that could carve out a share of this global market for buffalo meat. It is one of the top five exporters in the world.

As the 2016 GAIN report of the USDA Agricultural Service (https://gain.fas.usda.gov/Recent%20GAIN%20Publications/Livestock%20and%20Products%20Annual_New%20Delhi_India_8-31-2016.pdf) puts it,  Indias 2017 water buffalo meat (carabeef) and beef production is projected to increase marginally by two percent to 4.4 million tonnes carcass weight equivalent (CWE) due to population growth and moderate export demand. But this can happen only if the government does not thwart such efforts.

The worst casualty was expected to be Uttar Pradesh (UP), because much of the meat comes from this state. While some of it is exported, the rest is used for domestic consumption. Hence, the industry plays a vital role in providing food for the domestic market as well. So, when the new notification came, it was not surprising that big businesses would go knocking at the doors of the apex court.

The industry had suffered enough. It was racked by the developments on the cattle front during the past couple of years. Meat exports were hit. According to APEDA statistics, buffalo meat registered a decline of 6 percent over the past year, with the value of exports sliding from USD 3.74 billion to USD 3.52 billion (http://gulfnews.com/culture/people/india-s-beef-exports-hit-by-cow-vigilantism-1.2028673).

The total value of other types of meat is not known, but as can be seen from the table, buffalo meat is the largest contributor to the meat basket of India.

Add to this another major loss for the country. It will see its leather (and bone) industry getting hurt irreparably (see table 5). And, like beef exports, once customers find a source-country unreliable, winning back customers overseas can be a Herculean task. And this does not include a domestic market for leather goods, which is reckoned to be several-fold bigger.

But the biggest casualty could be labour. Exact numbers of people affected are not available, because much of the labour force is unorganised in these sectors. However, at a time when India has not been able to create employment in the numbers that it requires, it is stupidity to extinguish even those jobs that exist. Demonetisation had already hurt unorganised labour savagely.

Yet another nightmarish consequence of all these laws taken together is that it will harm Operation Flood that Verghese Kurien so carefully crafted with support from successive governments. It was this strategy that has make India the largest milk producer in the world, and Amul the largest agricultural brand in the country (http://www.asiaconverge.com/2015/12/five-things-that-sets-amul-apart-from-others/). If you reduce the profitability of cows and buffaloes, the industry loses its appeal.

It is good to learn that the government is now re-thinking its earlier moves on this front. The sad part is that a few policy makers  and this includes both legislators and bureaucrats  bothered to factor in the consequences of such recklessness.

(This is the second and concluding part of a series on the economics of the cattle slaughter ban. The writer is a senior journalist).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are "deal-makers" who are willing to break with past practice to accomplish things, a renowned expert on India and Asia has said.

"The Trump administration wants export markets and India wants investments. Somewhere in there, there is a deal. These two leaders are deal-makers and they are both willing to break with past practice and past policy to accomplish things," Senior Fellow for India with the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) Marshall Bouton told PTI in an interview.

He also suggested the two leaders during their first meeting next week should focus on transforming bilateral economic relations.

Bouton, who is President Emeritus of The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, described economic relations between the two nations as the "weakest" as compared to the political and security pillars of bilateral cooperation.

Bouton had last month authored a comprehensive ASPI paper 'The Trump Administration's India Opportunity', in which he called for the US administration to move decisively and engage Modi's government to deepen cooperation and manage potential disputes.

Bouton said if Modi and Trump want to think big about US-India relations, they should think about transforming economic ties in the manner that strategic ties strengthened under the George Bush administration with the civil nuclear deal and through the climate agreement under Barack Obama.

In his paper, Bouton, a nationally known expert on India and Asia, had noted that total US trade with India now exceeds 100 billion dollars. Although Indian exports increased rapidly over the last 15 years, Indian goods exports to the United States accounted for only 2.1 per cent of total US goods imports in 2016.

The total US goods trade deficit with India (USD 24 billion) in 2016 accounted for less than 5 per cent of the total US trade deficit.

"I am sure there will be some articulation on the Indian side of concern about protectionism on the part of the US and pressure on India to reduce its trade surplus with the US. From the US side, (focus could be) on how to make the trade relationship more balanced," he said.

Modis visit to the US also comes against the backdrop of concerns among Indian IT professionals and outsourcing firms over the H1-B visa regime amid the Trump administrations focus to undertake immigration reform. Bouton however suggested that the H1 B visa issue may not rank high among the priority areas for the Modi-Trump meeting.

"H1-B is a very important issue. However, frankly in the big scheme of things that should be the focus of this meeting, it does not rank so highly. The best we can hope for is that the administration decides what stance it really will finally take on H1-B. It should proceed cautiously and do so in consultation with its key partners, most especially India, on the H1B issue," he said.

He added that while the H1-B issue will come up in the bilateral talks between the leaders, "I dont think it is going to be a major issue. No one should expect a major move out of this meeting on the H1-B question, said Bouton, who has previously served as Director for Policy Analysis for Near East, Africa and South Asia in the US Department of Defense and as Special Assistant to the US Ambassador to India. PTI YAS .
Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed and his four aides will have to celebrate Eid in custody as Pakistan's Lahore High Court today deferred its verdict till July 3 in their detention case.

"As a division bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan today held the court to announce the verdict a government law officer requested it (bench) to defer it as the deputy attorney general was not present in the court," a court official told reporters outside the courtroom.

Accepting the governments request, the bench deferred the announcement of its verdict in Saeeds house arrest case till July 3, the official said.

The court official gave no further reason for deferring the announcement. "The bench will again sit on July 3 and announce the verdict in Saeeds case," he added.

The court had reserved the decision on June 7 after the Punjab government law officer submitted a reply and Saeed's counsel advocate A K Dogar completed his arguments.

The court had declared that it would announce the verdict in Saeeds detention case on June 19.

Saeed and his four close aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been detained on the instruction of the federal government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and security of the country, says the Punjab government.

The government had also submitted the report of the judicial review board on the detention of Saeed and his aides.

In his arguments, Dogar said the government did not produce the petitioners before the judicial review board prior to expiry of their detention period (April 30) and extended their detention on its own.

He said extending detention period without the mandatory approval of the review board is "illegal".

Dogar said the government detained the petitioners to "please India and America only".

He said the courts of the country in past had declared detention of the JuD chief illegal as government failed to prove its charges against him. He prayed to the court to set aside the detention of the petitioners for being unconstitutional.

Earlier, the three-member review board headed by Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan of the Supreme Court had reserved its verdict on the detention of Saeed.

Saeed last month had appeared before the review board and told it that he had been detained by the Pakistani government in order to "stop him for raising voice for Kashmiris".

The federal interior ministry rejected his arguments and told the board that "Saeed and his four aides have been detained for spreading terrorism in the name of Jihad".

On April 30, detention of Saeed and his four aides was extended by the Punjab government for another 90 days under preventative detention under 11 EEE (I) and 11D of Anti- Terrorism Act 1997.

The Punjab government on January 30 had put these five under house arrest in Lahore under the Second Schedule of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.
The passing of every year brings some new perspectives, and insights. However, in the age of information overload, it becomes difficult to keep track of what is important. As the year comes to close, here are the business books that encapsulate the best learnings for 2019. (Image: Reuters)

Microsoft founder Bill Gates has released the list of his 5 best summer reads. With the monsoons setting in this part of the world, Gates recommendations are a perfect accompaniment to your cup of tea on a rainy day.

The books are mainly a collection of memoirs which follow the lives of a child of mixed race in apartheid South Africa, a young man trying to escape his impoverished life in rural Appalachia, and the son of a peanut farmer in Plains, Georgia. The selection draws on stories that throw its readers in lives that have been lived on the fringes of the mainstream.

The books will make the reader think about how our experiences shape us and where humanity might be headed.

The Heart, by Maylis de Kerangal:

The only fiction title in Gates' list, the author tells the story of a heart transplant that follows after the death of a young man in an accident. The plot melts away as de Kerangal encourages deep human connections with her characters through her language, reminding the reader that everyone else has lives as full ones self.

For example, de Kerangal goes on for pages about the girlfriend of the surgeon who does the transplant even though the reader never meets that character. The book deals with grief and how it feels to have to change your life suddenly because somebody who was in it isnt in it anymore. It forces the reader to feel the depth of that grief, which is the root of empathy.

Born a Crime, by Trevor Noah:

The book is a memoir about how the host of the Daily Show used his outsider status to gain his acceptance with the rest of the world.

Born to a black South African mother and a white Swiss father in apartheid South Africa, he entered the world as a biracial child in a country where mixed-race relationships were forbidden. His flair for languages (he knows English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Tsonga, Tswana, German and Spanish) got him to change his perceptions of his mixed race.

Despite being a heart-breaking story, Gates identifies Noahs mother as the true hero of the story, who taught him to think for himself, and have a unique perspective of the world around him. The Daily Show host does so, and shares it with a comic flair.

Hillbilly Elegy, by J.D. Vance: The book is a memoir of a self-made man from a disadvantaged family. The narrator was raised by volatile grandparents and was consigned to a life of hopelessness and poverty.

However, through the grit and the love and support of family , the narrator manages to get past his class barriers, only to become a lawyer from Yale University, and offered six-figure sums. It is told with a vulnerability that Gates notes as brave.

Homo Deus, by Yuval Noah Harari:

A follow-up to the title Sapiens, Hararis brings our attention to our shedding away our religious rules, and are achieving our earthly goals like getting rid of sickness, hunger, and war, which historically are at an all-time low. Thus, society in the 21st century would need new ways to fulfill mans need for meaning in life.

Harari suggests a bleak scenario where artificial intelligence would rise to serve the elite, rendering the rest of humanity inconsequential. Agree or disagree, it will get one to think to abut the future, and by extension, about the present.

A Full Life, by Jimmy Carter:

The book is on a farmboys unexpected rise to the worlds highest office. Jimmy Carter, along with President Harry Truman is the symbol for the American Dream where anyone can fulfill their highest ambitions if they can match it up with the hard work, dedication and grit.

Gates finds A Full Life to be a timely read in an era when the publics confidence in national political figures and institutions is low. The book tells incidences in Carters life which show his discipline, his focus and his dedication in serving humanity.
London, UK | $16.47 billion (Image: Reuters)

Police said they arrested a man outside London's Paddington Station on Monday but added that the incident was not terrorism-related, a few hours after a van ploughed into worshippers near a mosque in the British capital.

"Officers have arrested a man outside Paddington for public disorder and possessing an offensive weapon. The incident is not terror related," British Transport Police said in a statement.

Video footage posted on Twitter showed officers restraining a shirtless man outside the station before taking him away.

Police have said the earlier attack at the mosque, which injured 10 people, appeared to be a terrorism incident which would make it the fourth such attack in three months in Britain.
Ukrainian businessman, owner and president of DCH Group Oleksandr Yaroslavsky is ready to purchase another other Ukrainian bank if his bid to acquire Prominvestbank (PIB) fails.

"I will expand my presence in the financial segment. If I am unsuccessful with PIB, I'll look at other banking institutions. I have acquired several large industrial assets, and now I need a bank to use as a financial instrument to control them," Yaroslavsky said in an interview appearing in the Biznes (Business) magazine.

PIB was established in 1992. Russia's VEB owns 99.7% of its shares.

According to Ukraine's National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), over the first quarter of 2017 bank assets decreased by 22.9% to UAH 25.61 billion, with the bank falling from Ukraine 11th to 13th biggest bank among Ukraine's largest 90 banks.

The NBU in April received documents from two citizens offering to take part in the purchase of PIB, according to the NBU regulator, who did not identify the citizens.

Media have reported that potential buyers are: founder of MosCityGroup Pavlo Fuks [Russia's Otkritie Bank is preparing to file a bankruptcy case against him] and Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine member Maksym Mykytas.

Yaroslavsky in late May also announced his intention to purchase Prominvestbank.

"On May 12, 2017, DCH directed the offer of purchasing Prominvestbank (PIB), Ukrainian subsidiary of VEB, to Vnesheconombank (VEB, RF)," DCH Group's website said on May 19, 2017.

The Kyiv-based Interfax-Ukraine news agency learned from the NBU's press service that, as of now, Yaroslavsky has not submitted paperwork to complete the deal.
The brand new An-132D transport aircraft built by Kyiv-based Antonov enterprise for Saudi Arabia as part of large-scale international cooperation has successfully debuted in the demonstration flight program at the 52nd International Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, France, on June 19.

The An-132D took part in the demonstration flights on the opening day of the event, impressing visitors with its capabilities, Ukrainian state-run concern Ukroboronprom's press service said on Monday.

The world premiere of the brand new An-132D at Le Bourget 2017 was successful, the press service said, adding: "Thousands of those interested in the aircraft come to see [it at] the display lot where it rests between flights."

The new plane is expected to participate in other demonstration flights at the air show also on June 21, it said.

The air show kicked off on June 19, it will last until June 25.

The An-132D multi-purpose plane with a carrying capacity of 9.2 tonnes is modification of the An-32 light transport aimed to replace the An-32 and the An-26 on the market.

Antonov is implementing the program under a contract signed in April 2015 with Saudi Arabia's King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Taqnia Aeronautics Co. The plane is being built with participation of leading western manufacturers: Pratt & Whitney Canada, CMC Electronics (Canada), U.S. Honeywell, France's Liebherr and Britain's Dowty Propellers.

The assembly of the prototype showcased at the air show was finished at Antonov's facilities in December 2016. In March 2016, the plane successfully carried out its maiden flight.
Did you miss out on the Pop Quiz this week? It's time to catch up and get ready for next week!
Many of us need a surveyor at some time during our lives. They offer vitally important services to make sure that property we are buying or selling is accurate. Their precise knowledge locates corners and property lines. It is said that the fastest line a surveyor ever found was through a pasture with a bull in it.

As far back as 1400 BC the first surveys were done for taxing purposes. Ancient surveyors used a unit of measuring length called a " chain ," which equaled 66 feet. Each link was a certain length that made up the chain. To measure smaller distances they used a " rod, " " pole " or " perch ," which equaled 16.5 feet or  of a chain. This sounds like a fishing trip to me. These old findings were either on parchment (from goat or sheepskin) or vellum (from calfskin) .

Words on land deeds have a language all their own, not all of which are legalese. Caveat is Latin for " let him beware " means there may be discrepancies in the boundaries.

A Certification of Mislocation is added to a deed that proves that some acreage from an earlier survey finds land that actually belongs to current owners.

Descriptive terms include a kill ,  which is a Dutch term for a small stream. Uplands and headlands refer to higher areas of a parcel of land and lowlands or meadow alludes to low - lying areas good for hay.

In the first part of the 1900s , many deeds had racial restrictions called Restrictive Covenants .  Most of these were not often followed and some deemed unconstitutional. Many older deeds still have these addendums attached to them in courthouses today.

Regional colloquialisms were often seen in older deeds. One surveyor had a deed from our western North Carolina mountains with directions to a corner that read: Oncet you cross the creek, keep walking until you git to the place that Maxwell Brown kilt a bear.

Two of the most well-known Americans that were surveyors are Abraham Lincoln and Henry David Thoreau. Lincoln became an assistant county surveyor in 1833 before moving into politics and Thoreau was a surveyor most of his life , which supported him as he wrote.

Often a landowner feels that his boundaries differ from what his neighbors feel they are. Tempers flare and a surveyor is called to settle the dispute. It does not always turn out the way the instigator wants and he ends up with less land than originally thought. Surveyors are often called to testify in court proceedings.

We asked a surveyor friend once to walk some acreage lines for property we wanted to buy. After traipsing through the woods for the better part of a day, we found out that there were several disputes and encroachments with even one boundary line running across a neighbors porch. We decided against the purchase.

I observed one neighbor moving an iron pipe that was in a buried concrete block 30 feet away from its original position onto the neighbors. Hopefully their surveyor will rectify that issue when needed. I thought about putting it back where it belonged.

For questions about your property and adjoining land , search the internet for Burke County GIS (Geographic Information Systems) or visit this link from NC State:

Surveyors claim they never get lost as long as they have a stake to drive in the ground because as soon as they do a dozer or another piece of heavy equipment will come by to scrape it out.

A licensed surveyor has an important job that is not always easy. They battle snakes and bees, the heat and cold and angry neighbors to find your property line. They settle disagreements, find lost property and establish legal documents with concrete evidence, making property buyers feel at ease during land transfers.

Debra Leigh Cloer is an avid reader and writer, a lifelong resident of Oak Hill and has five almost grown grandchildren. She is a member of the Morganton Writers Group and has needed a surveyor more than once. Email her at dilclo@bellsouth.net .
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The information contained within is for educational and informational purposes ONLY. It is not intended nor should it be considered an invitation or inducement to buy or sell a security or securities noted within nor should it be viewed as a communication intended to persuade or incite you to buy or sell security or securities noted within. Any commentary provided is the opinion of the author and should not be considered a personalised recommendation. The information contained within should not be a person's sole basis for making an investment decision. Please contact your financial professional before making an investment decision.
More than 0.5 million Ukrainian citizens have arrived in EU member countries since the day the Ukraine-EU visa-free travel deal took effect, and more than 21,000 of them used their biometric passports as the only travel document, the Ukrainian State Border Service said.

"Over 100,000 Ukrainians were traveling with biometric passports, including 21,200 compatriots who used the visa-free travel benefits and crossed the border with their biometric passports only," the service said.

A total of 6,745 Ukrainians, 32% of the entire number, travelled visa-free to Europe by plane. The others travelled by rail or crossed the border via motor checkpoints, mostly on the border with Poland (8,725 Ukrainian citizens) and Hungary (2,840 Ukrainian citizens).

The number of Ukrainian citizens traveling to the European Union visa-free increased a lot on weekend, border guards said.

Twenty-six Ukrainian citizens have been denied admission since the visa-free travel took effect.
Sainsburys (SBRY) is leading the FTSE 100 with a 2% gain this morning, following the news at the weekend that the supermarket is close to a takeover deal of Nisa Retail, a UK-based convenience store group.

Britains second-biggest supermarket chain is understood to have won a bidding war with the Co-operative Group for Nisa, according to The Sunday Times. Sainsburys bought Home Retail Group  which owns the Argos chain  in April 2016, in a 1.4 billion deal.

Sainsburys is reported to have offered a deal worth 130 million for Nisa, which has 2,900 stores and 1.3 billion in sales. Citing unnamed sources, the newspaper said that the mutuals board decided to make Sainsburys the preferred bidder at the end of last week, even though Co-op matched and then offered to beat its rival "significantly".

Prior the announcement of this deal, UK supermarkets took a hit last Friday, after e-commerce giant Amazon (AMZN) announced its acquisition of US food retailer Whole Foods (WFM).

Tesco (TSCO) fell 4.4% on Friday  after it shares price had initially surged, following the announcement of better-than-expected sales figures. Meanwhile, Sainsburys dropped 3.9% and Marks & Spencer Group (MKS) fell 1.7%. Morrisons (MRW) also had a negative reaction, but took back its losses, ending up 0.6% on Friday.

Vinay Sharma, senior trader at ayondo, the online trading platform said: The supermarket sector was rocked on Friday when internet giant Amazon announced a takeover deal of Whole Foods. But Sainsburys has bounced back today with news circulating about a potential takeover of cornershop Nisa.

He added: With Tesco previously making a similar bid for Booker, the sector is clearly consolidating and restructuring with consumer habits changing. Whilst this would be a nice coup for Sainsburys, the fact their share price hasnt returned to the levels seen on Friday morning shows investors arent overly excited about the deal.

Ocado Shares Rally 11% After Amazons Grocery Move

While many supermarkets fell on the back of the Amazon deal, shares in Ocado (OCDO) bucked this trend, with the online supermarket posting a sharp 11% gain on Monday, leading the UK mid-cap index FTSE 250. Analysts reckon that Ocado -- which is partnered with Morrisons and Waitrose - may become a takeover target, following the acquisition on Whole Foods by Amazon.

On June 16, Amazon announced its intentions to acquire Whole Foods Market in a $13.7 billion all-cash deal. Shares of Whole Foods Market soared 29.1% in the US at the market close last Friday, while Amazon was up 2.5%. Whole Foods Market is now rated as a two-star overvalued stock by Morningstar analysts, meaning analysts believe the stock is trading above its fair value estimate.

Zain Akbari, Morningstar equity analyst said: We portend this sale represents a favourable outcome for Whole Foods, in light of the intense competitive pressures that had been weighing on its business.

Whole Foods has been under pressure to reignite its operations. These challenges were brought to the forefront following the 9% stake taken by activist investor Jana Partners earlier this year, as it petitioned the firm to make operational improvements and pursue a sale. We had believed that a sale also offered the best investor outcome.

For Amazon, this deal could be advantageous as Whole Foods works to right its ship and drive efficiencies across its operations, said Akbari. This is because Amazon has developed a very powerful and disruptive brand that has become synonymous with competitive pricing, expedited shipping, and good customer service. Amazon dominates North American online retail with an estimated GMV of approximately $180 billion in 2016.

Will Margins Be Squeezed for US Grocers?

The companies most affected by this Amazon deal are US retailers and supermarkets. The US grocer Kroger (KR) was down 9.2% last Friday at market close, while Wal-Mart (WMT) fell 4.7%.

John Brick, an equity analyst at Morningstar says these share prices falls showed investors were concerned that competitive pressure in the grocery sector may intensify  with the added long-term threat of Amazon taking a significant position in that space. We think a Whole Foods and Amazon tie-up could further exacerbate this pressure, as we expect Amazon to re-position Whole Foods more aggressively at lower average price points, leading to additional margin degradation in this space, Brick adds.

However, Brick believes Wal-Mart is best positioned to survive this new competitive entrant and that its stock decline was least justified. He said that while this Whole Foods deal could eliminate some of the physical footprint advantages that Wal-Mart holds he points out that Wal-Mart still has around 4,700 stores in the US, compared to approximately 450 Whole Food outlets. And while Whole Foods stores only sell groceries, Wal-Mart offers a wider range of merchandise: from food to clothing to electrical goods. Wal-Mart currently trades at a 10% discount to our $82 fair value, which remains in place, said Brick.
The Council of the European Union, which is meeting in Luxembourg on Monday at the level of foreign ministers, has extended the restrictive measures against Russia for reuniting with Crimea and Sevastopol for one year, the council said in a communique.

The sanctions had been extended until June 23, 2018, the document said.

This category of sanctions includes prohibitions on imports of products originating in Crimea or Sevastopol into the EU, investment in Crimea or Sevastopol, tourism services in Crimea or Sevastopol, and exports of certain goods and technologies to Crimean companies or for use in Crimea in the transport, telecommunications and energy sectors and related to the prospection, exploration and production of oil, gas and mineral resources.
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Are you one of the nations best commercial mortgage brokers? Now is your chance to participate in CMPs annual Top Commercial Mortgage Brokers feature, landing you on the radar of potential clients and referral partners. Click here to be considered for this exclusive list of Canadas top commercial brokers. It only takes five minutes to submit and the process is completely free. Also, keep in mind that all of the fields need to be supplied by you, the broker/agent, and completed to be considered for this recognition.Dont miss this opportunity to brand yourself as one of the mortgage industrys top-performing brokers. The best of the best will be profiled in the August issue of CMP.Submissions now open here.
Six Ukrainian servicemen wounded in 47 shellings by militants in Donbas

Militants attacked the Ukrainian army positions 47 times on Sunday, the headquarters of the Ukrainian anti-terrorist operation (ATO) wrote on its Facebook page

"Six servicemen have been wounded as a result of hostile attacks launched in the past 24 hours," the HQ said on Facebook.

Twenty-one attacks on the Ukrainian army's defense lines were seen in the Mariupol sector. For instance, army positions near Pavlopil, Chermalyk, Shyrokyne and Mykolaivka came under attack of 120mm mortars, and 82mm mortars were fired near Vodiane. Besides, militants used grenade launchers and small arms near those populated localities, Talakivka and Lebedynske.

Militants shelled Ukrainian army positions using 120mm and 82mm mortars near Kamianka in Donetsk sector. Grenade launchers and heavy machineguns were fired on Ukrainian positions near Luhanske, and similar weapons were used in the southern suburb of Avdiyivka.

The Luhansk sector saw 15 attacks by militants. Mortars shelled Ukrainian army positions near Krymske, Troitske, Novotoshkivske and Zolote. Small arms, grenade launchers, heavy machineguns, and infantry combat vehicle weapons were engaged in the hostilities near Katerynivka, Novooleksandrivka, Novozvanivka, Stanytsia Luhanska, and Schastya.
Wells Fargo has announced that it will guarantee that any customers harmed in the banks fake-accounts scandal will be fully compensated, according to areport.The bank has guaranteed that customers affected by its practice of opening unauthorized accounts will get back any fees and be compensated for any damaged done to their credit ratings. That could mean that Wells Fargo will end up owing much more than the $142 million it had previously agreed to pay to settle lawsuits over the scandal.Last month, a federal judge told the bank that the $142 settlement amount might not be enough to undo the damage wrought by the scandal, and that he wouldnt approve a settlement without a guarantee that affected customers would be fully compensated. While $142 million may be more than enough to do that, the final figure may not be known for months, thereported.A Wells Fargo spokesman said that the bank doesnt expect the payout to exceed the banks previous settlement offer.While we believe $142 million will adequately compensate customers, and there will be no need to add additional funds to the settlement, this agreement reflects our commitment to make things right for our customers, spokesman Jim Seitz told theThe agreement comes as Wells Fargo deals with its newest scandal  allegations that it made unauthorized changes to the terms of customers mortgages. Several lawsuits are accusing the bank of making changes to the mortgages of customers in bankruptcy  changes that drastically extended their loan terms and increased the total amount they owed. The bank has issued a vigorous denial of the allegations.
(Bloomberg) -- When Candice Jackson was appointed by U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos as acting head of the Office of Civil Rights in April, Jackson gave little indication which direction she planned to steer enforcement of civil rights law in the nation's schools.



A memo written by Jackson and published by ProPublica sheds light on her direction. Under Jackson, the Office for Civil Rights will no longer apply heightened scrutiny to allegations of sexual assault or harassment on campus. It will also end the practice of routinely checking to see if one allegation reveals a pattern.

In the memo, Jackson also stressed the need to close cases quickly. It's a worthy goal. The average sexual violence investigation by the office takes 2.6 years, up from 9 months in 2010. Even the time it takes to resolve discipline complaints related to improper school suspensions and expulsions has doubled in that time.



But some of the delay reflects a surge in complaints filed with the OCR, from 5,805 to 16,720 in the past decade. Over the same period, the agency has cut its workforce from about 640 people to 570 now (of which 385 are attorneys). The Trump administrations budget proposes laying off another 46 employees, including 27 attorneys. Even before those cuts, OCR lawyers have seen their caseloads rise from 14 investigations per person per year to 41.

Coupled with the proposed budget reductions, Jackson's memo suggests that the OCR will only get weaker. In effect, that could shift the burden to families and their private lawyers to pursue allegations of abuse at schools.

If your child is the object of discrimination, you can reach out to the government and they will investigate it for you, said Paul Grossman, who worked as an attorney at the agency until his retirement in 2013. If you shut down or restrict OCR, youre in effect seeing to it that unless they can pay for a lawyer, an individual has no effective way of asserting their civil rights.



The Office of Civil Rights didn't respond to a request for comment on Jackson's memo, and the Education Department declined to make her available for an interview.

The agency's new interim leader brings to the role a history of involvement in charged disputes about sexual assualt allegations in national politics. Jackson is perhaps best known as a strong critic of the Clintons and the author of the 2005 book, Their Lives: The Women Targeted by the Clinton Machine. During the most recent presidential campaign, she characterized Hillary Clinton as an enabler of rapists in articles for InfoWars and WorldNetDaily.



According to New York magazine, Trump advisor Roger Stone paid Jackson $7,000 in 2015 to conduct a video interview with Kathy Shelton, a victim in a 1975 rape case where Clinton represented the defendant. Jackson went on to represent Shelton and is listed as the director of Their Lives Foundation, a Washington state-based organization that aims to advocate for and against candidates for political office and giving public voice to victims of women who abuse positions of power.



At the same time, in a 2016 Facebook post, Jackson called the women claiming then-candidate Donald Trump had harassed them fake victims. She has also criticized laws against sexual assault and harassment, saying unwanted sexual advances were often difficult to define and that men often had to self-censor themselves to avoid accusations of harassment.

The OCR investigates other alleged instances of discrimination. Recently, the office has seen a sharp rise in claims related to Internet access for people with disabilities, as well as Title IX cases focused on sports. OCR investigators examine every complaint and, if they determine an investigation is justified, embark on a monthslong or yearslong process in which they conduct interviews, issue document requests, and sometimes even visit the school.

The offices resources are already stretched. In its 2016 budget request to Congress, the agency noted that its office supplies were so depleted that employees sometimes had to scramble to find copy paper and batteries. One former employee who visited OCR field offices across the country said a common complaint he heard from employees was that their computers were so old they took minutes to turn on.



Mostly, though, the staff is worried that it would soon be unable to give proper attention to every complaint. It caused us a lot of anxiety, says Grossman, who retired in 2013 after 41 years as an OCR attorney. In addition to the high-profile and time-consuming cases of sexual violence, he said he's worried about all of OCRs lesser-known projects. Before he retired, Grossman traveled around the country talking to college administrators about veterans needs, how to integrate them into the rest of the student body, and the type of campus services they might benefit from. Of course, that requires the OCR to have a travel budget, he says.



The future of existing cases may also come into question. As of January, the OCR was investigating about 330 institutions for Title IX violations related to sexual violence. At her confirmation hearing, DeVos refused to say whether she would support OCRs guidelines on how schools should handle allegations of sexual assault. Jacksons memo encouraged the agency to reach voluntary settlements with schools as often as possible.

To contact the author of this story: Claire Suddath in New York at csuddath@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Janet Paskin at jpaskin@bloomberg.net.

2017 Bloomberg L.P.
Texas legendary oil and gas industry continued its growth trend in May, according to the energy indicators released by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.

With this run, we have seen a lot of activity increase, Kunal Patel, senior research analyst with the bank, said in a phone interview from his Dallas office. Production is up, the rig count is up, employment is up.

The Permian Basin portion of the Lone Star State was especially strong, he said, with production rising by 53,400 barrels to 2.34 million barrels a day. The Eagle Ford posted its fourth consecutive monthly increase, rising 33,300 barrels a day to 1.29 million barrels a day.

He said the states rig count also continued to rise, particularly among horizontal rigs. The states total rig count was 453 in May, of which 388 were horizontal  up from 359 in April  while vertical and directional rigs slipped two to 65 from 67 in April. The Permian had 356 rigs operating, while the Eagle Ford had 98.

Patel said that 40 percent of the nations drilling rigs in May were at work in the Permian Basin. He said the 21 consecutive weeks of rising rig counts has helped fuel five months of increases in oil and gas employment, primarily in the service side of the industry.

Twenty-one straight weeks of rig count increases means more rig crews, more frac crews, he said.

Texas oil and gas employment rose to 214,100 jobs, a gain of 3,300 jobs. The state now accounts for 55 percent of the nations 390,900 oil and gas jobs. Texas producers added 920 jobs, bringing the total to 92,100, while service companies added 2,380 jobs, bringing the total to 122,000.

Still, technological advancements and efficiency gains mean that the industry wont need as many workers as in the past, he said.

Operators are getting smarter, theres more production per well, theres faster drilling times. Its all about American ingenuity, he said.

Patel cited statistics from the Energy Information Administration that drilled but uncompleted (DUC) wells in the Permian Basin have now exceeded 2,000, giving a six-month inventory of wells waiting to be completed.

That should help employment, he said.

There was a slightly rosier picture for crude prices as May came to a close, he said. The average May spot price was $48.48, down from $51.06 in April. Patel said prices had received support in early May from news that OPEC members and non-OPEC producers had agreed to extend production cuts. Confirmation of that extension later in the month led to a sell-off, he said.

In the U.S., were producing more and more oil. The price is down because the market is waiting for more proof global inventories are dropping. The EIA and the International Energy Agency are both, in their latest reports, implying that the market will be well-supplied through the end of 2018. Were seeing production in the U.S. rising and the markets are assuming it will be well-supplied through the end of 2018.

Also complicating efforts to ease the glut of crude supplies is the outlook that next years global oil demand will be lower than the growth in supplies from non-OPEC countries. The EIA expects the U.S. alone to increase its output to 10 million barrels a day. And if OPEC members grow their output next year, that will add to the oversupply, he said.

Despite the recent drop in prices, Patel said many producers have hedged their production, locking in higher prices. That, and the fact they have also contracted rigs into the future means the rig count should continue rising, and production should continue rising at least until later in the year, he said.

Some of the Permian Basins shale oil  which is primarily light sweet -- is finding its way overseas as U.S. exports are rising -- to 926,800 barrels a day in May from 733,000 barrels a day in April. The 2016 average was 519,600 barrels a day. That amount is a fraction of the estimated 9 million barrels of crude the nation still imports, Patel said.

A significant development in the nations efforts to build an export market came late last month when the Port of Corpus Christi saw the successful docking of a Very Large Crude Carrier, a supertanker than can carry more than 2 million barrels of crude, at its Ingleside Energy Center Terminal.

Exports have helped lower inventories in the U.S., Patel said.

While exports are just moving light sweet crude to other countries, it is helping optimize the market by sending that crude to refineries outfitted to process lighter crudes, he said.

Over time, American ingenuity is again finding ways to export more crude, Patel said. With the development of the export infrastructure, now we have the option of bringing in a supertanker from Saudi Arabia and, rather than returning it empty, have it detour to Europe with a cargo of light sweet crude on its way back to Saudi Arabia.

America is at the forefront of innovation, finding ways to keep improving.
The head of the Samopomich Party faction Oleh Bereziuk has stopped eating to show solidarity with residents of Lviv and to protest the actions of Ukraine's top officials in Kyiv.

"Demanding an end to the sham and end of lies in government, I, as a human being, doctor and people's deputy of Ukraine, have taken the extraordinary step, although I didn't think this would be necessary in the 21st century, to declare a hunger strike," he said at a session of the conciliatory council of heads of parliamentary factions, committees and groups in Kyiv on Monday.

Bereziuk said he decided stop eating in order to support Lviv residents, who "are always patient and tolerant of authorities, because they believe in the government and want to see him, and this government, led by top officials in Kyiv, are publicly humiliating them."

He said the goal of his hunger strike is to compel top government officials from humiliating Lviv residents.

"Lviv is today occupied by the enemy. A year ago the enemy entered this 'city of Will,' which has always and will forever be in the vanguard of Ukraine's defense The enemy came, and during the course of a year, fooling everyone with each step, began humiliating not only top city officials and top officials of the city, but became humiliating the inhabitants of Lviv," Bereziuk said.

Earlier on June 19, Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovy said 8,500 tonnes of solid waste products, which cannot be transported out of the city, had accumulated and that the city's request to central authorities for assistance was ignored.
An East Texas couple is accused of locking a 4-year-old boy in a dog kennel and forcing him to drink his own urine.

Matthew McMahon, 29, and Randa Askew Faust McMahon, 36, of Shelby County were arrested June 2 and charged with first-degree injury to a child, according to local reports.

It wasn't until late last week that more details of the abuse emerged after KTRE reported on the shocking particulars of the couple's arrest affidavits.

An investigation into the Shelbyville couple kicked off in late May after authorities got word of abuse allegations.

But when investigators stopped at the McMahon home, they learned the child and his stepmother were in North Carolina.

In the meantime, officials decided to interview Randa McMahon's other three children, including a teenager who recounted a horrific story of prolonged abuse of the toddler.

The older child said the 4-year-old was routinely made to sleep in a dog kennel because of his bed-wetting. He was allegedly left in a cargo trailer once without food or drink for 24 hours.

Another time he was forced to drink his own urine in retaliation for wetting himself.

The teenager also said the boy was sometimes whipped with a stick until he bled, according to the arrest affidavit.

One of Randa McMahon's adult children corroborated some of the teen's shocking claims, but justified the treatment, saying "children could safely go for several days without water," according to court documents.

Another of McMahon's adult children said the toddler "has a problem with not wanting to eat," and that her mother's decision to withhold water was a punishment for refusing to eat.

Matthew McMahon reportedly knew about and condoned his wife's abuse of the boy, investigators allege.

The couple was arrested in Somervall County, just days after the investigation began.

The couple was initially held on $200,000 bail but later released after a judge granted a bail reduction, according to county jail records.

The boy was taken into CPS custody.
PM asking city mayors, head of rural councils to help in accepting garbage from Lviv

Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman has asked local self-governance agencies to respond to the request of Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovy if they receive one and temporarily accept garbage from Lviv at their municipal landfills.

"I want now to ask the entire country: dear colleagues, city mayors and rural council heads, heads of regional administrations, if Lviv Mayor Andriy Ivanovych Sadovy apply to you for help with the removal of garbage from Lviv I ask you to help if you can," the prime minister said at a phone meeting devoted to the preparations for winter and held on Monday.

Groysman said that it is important to receive the answer from the Lviv mayor what time he needs to settle the problem systemically  to build a landfill and accept waste on one of the 14 land parcels in Lviv region that were proposed.

The prime minister said that he is ready to allocate UAH 50 million from the reserve fund of Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers for the launch of this landfill.

Earlier Sadovy accused central authorities, including the government, of creating obstacles in removing waste from Lviv city that lost its own landfill.
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Organizers of the March of Equality held in central Kyiv on June 18 as part of the KyivPride2017 have said that the event took place without major incidents, but after its completion ten people were injured in attacks by opponents of the march.

"The march itself passed without significant incidents. I know that during the march its opponents snatched away one big rainbow banner and about 20 small flags. The opponents were unable to get into the column and attack the participants during the march. But there were regrettable incidents after the event. Unfortunately, despite the fact that we tried to talk to people as much as possible asking them to take their personal security seriously, we could not avoid attacks after the march," a member of the KyivPride NGO, Zoryan Kis, said at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday.

He praised the excellent police work during the Sunday march. "Despite the fact that the conditions were more complicated, I got the impression that the police were able to cope though having a smaller number of officers [compared with previous years], which means that the steps to ensure law and order during the march were well planned," Kis said.

Director of the KyivPride NGO Ruslana Panukhnyk said they know of seven attacks on the march participants, as a result of which ten people were injured. "This year, not only did the number of attacks on the participants increased, but there was an attack on the observer from Ozon [civic observation group], on a Belarusian citizen and on a journalist. Moreover, these were the police who used force against the journalist. We will discuss this case with police in order to avoid such incidents in future," she said.

According to her, KyivPride2017 was held at a very high level. "We have received great support from the LGBT community, people who are not part of it, international organizations, diplomatic institutions, Ukrainian human rights activists," Panukhnyk said.

The organizers also noted that for the first time, apart from the walking procession, two cars participated in the march. The vehicles were provided thanks to the financial support of the Elton John Foundation.

According to the organizers, this year's March of Equality was attended by some 4,000 people. The police reported about 2,500 participants.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has left on a working visit to the U.S., his press secretary Svyatoslav Tsegolko said.

"The president of Ukraine has left for a working visit to the United States," Tsegolko wrote on his Facebook on Monday.

As reported, on June 14, a source in diplomatic circles has told Interfax-Ukraine Poroshenko will pay a visit to Washington next week, where he will hold a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. "Indeed, an agreement was achieved on the meeting [with Trump], the visit will be held on June 19-20," the source said.

The Foreign Ministry of Ukraine later confirmed a meeting of the presidents of Ukraine and the United States, but did not give any specific dates.

"The meeting will definitely take place, we are preparing it. But we should keep you on the edge of your seats. Svyatoslav Tsegolko will make a statement soon (simultaneously with our American friends), but we are now working on a large part of the speech," Klimkin said.

The minister also said the agenda of the meeting will include issues related to Russia's meeting its commitments under the Minsk agreements, as well as the occupied Crimea, access to the peninsula by international observers, bilateral cooperation between Ukraine and the United States and assistance to reforms in Ukraine.

The minister also said they will discuss security cooperation between Ukraine and the United States, and "important political decisions in this area" will be taken.

The minister also specified that the parties in preparation for the Poroshenko-Trump meeting were agreeing the format for the U.S. participation in negotiations on the settlement of the Donbas conflict.

"Before the meeting it was important for us to agree with our American partners about the format of their engagement, whether this will be a parallel format or a format of interaction at certain levels with the Normandy format. A lot of important news will appear soon," Klimkin said.

In his words, Kyiv and Washington will continue to search for ways to pressure Russia.
More than 40 Boone High School students and chaperones traveling in Paris are safe, hours after a driver deliberately rammed his vehicle into into a police convoy.

43 Boone students, adults safe, says travel group leader

Man dies in explosion after driving car into police vehicle

While attack appeared deliberate, motives are unknown

"Everyone is just fine," assured Brook Smith from Paris, who is one of the group leaders with Education First Tours, which organized the trip. Smith said the group was in a different part of Paris from where the attacked happened.

Smith said he saw a police van heading toward the Champs-Elysees shopping district, where earlier in the day, a man rammed a car with explosives into a police vehicle, French officials stated.

The Paris police department said no bystanders were injured in the attack, but it was unclear why the man drove into a police vehicle other than to say the incident was deliberate.

Two police officials told the Associated Press that a handgun was found on the driver, who they said was badly burned after the vehicle exploded. They identified the driver as a 31-year-old man from the Paris suburb of Argenteuil who had an S file, meaning he was flagged for links to extremism.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal details of the incident, the second this year on the citys most famous avenue, which is popular with tourists from around the world.

An attacker defending the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria terror group shot and killed a police officer on the Champs-Elysees in April, days before a presidential election.

France is under a state of emergency after a string of deadly Islamic extremist attacks.

While having dinner in the City of Lights, Smith told News 13 in a phone interview that the Orange County high school was not involved with the trip and explained that the tour agency provides an educational experience for students to see different cultures.

Smith, who has been a group leader for five years with his wife, Brooke, for Education First Tours, said that there are 43 adults and students on the 13-day European trip. They were planning to tour more of Paris later Monday evening and will make their return trip home Tuesday.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
Ending the heroin epidemic is a war with many different battles. One of those battles all recovering addicts fight is staying clean after rehab.

A Stepping Stone to Success provides transitional housing for heroin addiction recovery

Group says transitional housing helps those out of rehab stay clean

Group believes Florida needs to invest in similar facilities

I found this place out of sheer luck," said Jessica DeNichilo. I had burned so many bridges with family and friends; I honestly dont know where I would be without this house.

DeNichilo currently lives in one of two a transitional homes called A Stepping Stone to Success. DeNichilo lives in one for just women. Clint Loudermilk lives in the one for just men.

I had no more options. I was literally almost homeless. And you know, I have a college degree, I owned houses, I have lost it all," said Loudermilk.

DeNichilo and Loudermilk are recovering heroin addicts.

Bottom line, it became an economical thing. I couldnt afford prescription pills so I would use street drugs," said Loudermilk.

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After rehab, many addiction professionals believe transitional homes can play a huge role with people working to stay clean.

Where ever they came from was probably the last place they were using at. And out brains have great memories. And they remember it being pleasurable," said Jo-Anne Stone, Certified Addiction Professional.

Stone is a former addict herself and started the two transitional homes. She firmly believes the state of Florida should invest more into similar facilities now that a state of emergency on heroin has been declared.

If I didnt have this house, to be able to do that, I would have gotten out of treatment, had nowhere else to go, and would have been back on the streets. Chances are I would have relapsed," said DeNichilo.

DeNichilo is clean and working to get her kids back. Loudermilk has run both homes as a manager for the last three years.

If you or someone you know needs transitional housing post-addiction, you can find information on the Stepping Stone to Success website.

Florida's Heroin Epidemic

In May, Gov. Scott declared a state of emergency in Florida to fight the opioid and heroin epidemic.

Heroin overdoses and heroin deaths have grown in the last few years. In 2015 alone, opioids were responsible for nearly 3,900 deaths in Florida.

In May, Sheriff Jerry Demings told a task force his deputies responded to 160 heroin overdoses in the first three months of 2017, compared to 69 heroin overdoses over the same period in 2016.

The county also saw 17 deaths in the first three months of 2017, compared to eight in 2016.

Gov. Scott's declaration freed up over $27 million for two years to provide prevention, treatment and recovery support services.

The N.O.W. Matters More Foundation works to help those trying to break addiction, including financial help. They also work raise prevention and education efforts as well. More information can be found on the N.O.W. Matters More Foundation website.

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A family visit to a Central Texas park near Belton Lake took a bizarre and dangerous twist over the weekend.

Police temporarily closed McGregor Park on Saturday evening after a 9-year-old child found a grenade with its pin still intact while swimming.
Principal Deputy Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine Alexander Hug is visiting Donbas on June 19-25 to assess security levels and the humanitarian situation.

Hug "will travel to eastern Ukraine on 19-25 June to assess the security and humanitarian situation and encourage all concerned to work towards peace and normalization on the situation in Ukraine," the OSCE SMM said on Twitter on Monday.

In addition, Hug will meet with representatives of the Joint Center for Control and Coordination.
Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko welcomes the decision of the Council of the European Union to extend for another year the sanctions against Russia over the annexation of the Crimea.

"I welcome the decision of the EU Council to extend for another year the 'Crimean package' of sanctions, the price for the annexation attempt and aggression should grow," Poroshenko wrote on his Facebook page on Monday.

As reported, the Council of the European Union at a meeting at the level of foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Monday at extended the restrictive measures against Russia for annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol for one year until June 23, 2018, the document said.

This category of sanctions includes prohibitions on imports of products originating in Crimea or Sevastopol into the EU, investment in Crimea or Sevastopol, tourism services in Crimea or Sevastopol, and exports of certain goods and technologies to Crimean companies or for use in Crimea in the transport, telecommunications and energy sectors and related to the prospection, exploration and production of oil, gas and mineral resources.
Having agreed to a plea arrangement with prosecutors in the so-called "Kurchenko case," deputy head of PJSC Odesa Oil Refinery Dmytro Veremeyev has received a five-year jail sentence with a one-year test term.

Head of Odesa region's Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) Oleh Zhuchenko said during a briefing on Monday that Veremeyev testified to prosecutors about the "Kurchenko case," providing information about the location of various documents needed for the investigation and about the role played by suspects in the case. Under the arrangement, Veremeyev must remunerate UAH 2 billion in losses incurred by the government.

Regarding confiscation ordered by the Suvorivsky District Court of Odesa of property at the Odesa Oil Refinery, Zhuchenko said equipment worth $200 million, including a construction pit measuring 38,000 square meters and 77 hectares of land was returned to state ownership.

Zhuchenko also said the court's decision ordered the confiscation of the property belonging to the refinery as well as property belonging to LLC Gas and Energy of Ukraine.

The refinery thus is fully ready to resume operations.

The rights to the confiscated properties are registered to Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers.

In addition, the prosecutor said there is a possibility to appeal the decision, although this will be very difficult. He said the decision involving the refinery's property cannot be appealed by civil courts because the refinery in this instance is classified as the means for committing a crime.

Zhuchenko said the next step in investigating the case involves returning oil products to the state. They were stored at the enterprise until the end of 2014. The portion of the crude oil that cannot be returned will be compensated for.

As earlier reported, the district court of Odesa has decided to apply special confiscation to the property of Odesa Oil Refinery that belonged to VETEK Group of Serhiy Kurchenko.

The Russian LUKOIL company had acquired two 25.95% blocks of stock of open joint-stock company Odesa Oil Refinery in non-commercial auctions in 1999 for UAH 27.27 million before increasing their share to 97%.

Kurchenko's VETEK in 2013 bought LUKOIL's stake in the refinery. Kurchenko is currently wanted by Ukrainian law-enforcement agencies. It was later reported that VETEK transferred ownership of the refinery to Russia's Bank VTB. Regular operations at the refinery were not restored. The refinery is currently idle.

Odesa regional prosecutors together with police and Odesa region's SBU Security Service agents served notice of suspicion to 16 individuals suspected of involvement of criminal deals with oil products as per the so-called "Kurchenko scheme." Several suspects have already been arraigned and sentenced.

The former deputy general director of the Odesa Oil Refinery was arrested as per a motion filed by Odesa prosecutors on April 22, 2017.

The refinery was shut down for reconstruction in August 2005 and resumed work only in April 2008. However, in October 2010 the refinery again was shut down in connection with the economic situation with oil products on Ukraine's market, as well as due to a change in the scheme of crude oil shipments.

The estimated oil refining capacity of the enterprise is 2.8 million tonnes annually.
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A group of Jewish students and local residents sued San Francisco State University over alleged anti-Semitism on Monday, accusing school officials of tolerating and encouraging hostility toward Jews and enabling the disruption of an April 2016 campus speech by the mayor of Jerusalem.

SFSU has fostered and sanctioned anti-Semitism from the highest levels and affirmed the actions of hostile, aggressive and disruptive students to regularly violate the rights of Jewish students, lawyers for three leaders of the campus Jewish group Hillel and three nonstudents said in the federal court lawsuit.

They cited incidents dating back to 1994  when a mural showing stars of David intertwined with dollar signs was displayed at the student union, then painted over after protests  and said Jewish students feel fearful, intimidated and threatened on campus.

The suit seeks unspecified damages and court orders barring the alleged anti-Semitic policies at San Francisco State.

The university said it had not been aware of the suit or its allegations. In a statement, university attorney Daniel Ojeda said, We have been working closely with the Jewish community, among other interest groups, to address concerns and improve the campus environment for all students. Those efforts have been very productive and will continue notwithstanding this lawsuit.

San Francisco State, like many other campuses, has been torn by conflicts over Israel, Zionism and Palestinians. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, focused on the disruption of an April 2016 appearance by Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat.

Speaking at a location far from the center of campus  due to discriminatory treatment by school officials, the suit claims  Barkat was six minutes into his remarks when about 20 students stood and started shouting, Free Palestine, Israel is an apartheid state and other chants, according to a report commissioned afterward by the university.

The protesters soon began using a microphone and prevented listeners from hearing most of Barkats speech, the report said.

The report, by an outside law firm, found that the protest was disruptive and violated school policies but posed no physical threat to Barkat or others.

The lawsuit said, however, that the protesters had threatened violence, that Jewish students felt frightened, and that school officials contributed to the hateful atmosphere by instructing campus police to stand down rather than halting the protest. Later, the suit said, officials showed their bias by letting the demonstrators off with a warning and no formal discipline.

The suit also cited the exclusion of Hillel from a campus Know Your Rights fair in February  a discriminatory action that school officials defended with a false claim that the group had missed a registration deadline, the plaintiffs lawyers said.

They said university President Leslie Wong, a defendant in the suit, acknowledged in a May 30 letter to five Jewish students that institutionalized anti-Semitism is part of what we at S.F. State must confront and mitigate.

Wongs empty and overly general statements failed to address Jewish students concerns about their rights and safety, the suit said.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko
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At least three Texas-based cannabis companies are preparing to battle the state Department of Public Safety over its awarding of provisional licenses to dispense medical marijuana.

Chad Sykes, founder of Indoor Harvest in Houston, said his company pioneered technology that has been embraced by MIT and Canada-based Canopy Growth Corp., the worlds largest legal cannabis company. Indoor Harvest, which partnered with Houston-based Vyripharm Biopharmaceuticals and Alamo CBD in San Antonio, should have been a shoe-in for a license, he said.

Instead, Indoor Harvest and other applicants were excluded thanks to scoring methods that werent disclosed and by DPS personnel who may know little about the science behind medical marijuana, Sykes said.

On May 28, members of the newly formed Medical Cannabis Association of Texas sent DPS a letter saying state leaders are making it overly difficult to get licenses  which they say goes against the intent of the enabling legislation  and requesting a hearing to make their case.

Your agencies notification that we were not awarded a conditional license is in effect a constructive denial that has the same effect on our business interest as a formal denial under the CUP (Compassionate Use Program) rules, the letter says, adding that the statute says the department shall issue or renew a license to operate as a dispensing organization to each applicant who satisfies the requirements.

The legislation required the DPS to license at least three dispensing organizations by Sept. 1, 2017.

On May 1, the DPS approved three companies for conditional licenses in the Central Texas area. Forty-three companies applied, and while the DPS initially estimated 12 companies would be needed to meet the needs of the states approximately 150,000 intractable epilepsy patients, the department ultimately decided to limit the licenses to the minimum required by the statute.

Click here on ExpressNews.com to read the full story.

lbrezosky@express-news.net
The brick-and-mortar retail world continues to crumble around the United States as Amazon and online stores continue to boom. Many companies are seeking bankruptcy protection to reduce debt and reach long-term viability.

Moody's Investors Service listed 22 U.S. retailers with troubled financials that could be heading to potential bankruptcy.
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San Antonio's beauty, brawn and bravura will be on display in prime time tonight when the first part of "American Ninja Warrior's" Alamo City shoot airs on NBC.

Look for plenty of daring and inspiring contestants from here as well as from other cities in Texas and around the country, including an Indy race car driver and a Harlem Globetrotter, in S.A.'s qualifying rounds.

The two hours of local fun start at 7 p.m.

Those who make it through the harrowing course, located in front of the Bexar County Courthouse and featuring two new grueling obstacles, will advance to San Antonio's finals, scheduled for July 31.

RELATED: 'American Ninja Warrior's' San Antonio shoot nets thrills, fab exposure

Two S.A. favorites will take the spotlight for sure: tiny but deceptively strong Kacy Catanzaro, who became an overnight sensation in 2014 as the first woman to qualify for the Vegas finals of "Ninja Warrior"; and Brent Steffensen, an eight-season "Warrior" and one of its toughest competitors.

Also in the spotlight will be the city's dazzling skyline, aerial shots of downtown, the River Walk, Market Square and, of course, the Alamo. Hosts Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila toured all those sights.

The network also invited hometown guy Steffensen to give a quick tour of some of San Antonio's delights as part of this introductory S.A. episode. He'll entertain with stunts on the River Walk involving a barge full of passengers, and he'll show off the delicious food choices at The Pearl.

"We went to the restaurant Southerleigh," Steffensen said. "Have you ever had their fried snapper? I've never seen a dish like it. The presentation is pretty amazing with the fins still on the fish."

"American Ninja Warrior" undoubtedly will be great exposure for San Antonio -- an estimated 6.9 million viewers watch the show each week.

RELATED: Bride-to-be dishes on 'unreal' S.A. 'American Ninja Warrior' proposal caught on camera

jjakle@express-news.net
It is an unwritten canine commandment: Thou shalt pamper thy dog with the occasional heavenly treat. And if you really want to do your fur angel proud, youll sniff around your local pet boutiques and bakeries.

San Antonio has its share of locally owned and community-connected pet stores, the better to give your pooch a downright farm-to-food-bowl experience with area-sourced products and services. That means super-healthy and hearty baked treats, chews and other goodies to nibble, plus your more esoteric pet supplies and accessories.
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Morgan's Inspiration Island, San Antonio's newest water park, welcomed excited guests to the opening of over the weekend.

The park, which opened Saturday, is an addition to Morgan's Wonderland facility that is designed for special needs individuals but built for all abilities.

Families and guests took to social media to rave about the attraction describing it as, "lovely," "a city treasure" and "a pretty special place -- for everyone."

RELATED: Sports star makes surprise S.A. appearance ahead of 'unforgettable prom night' at Morgan's Wonderland

See more social media reactions and photos from Morgan's Inspiration Island in the slideshow above.

The new water park is tropical island theme and features a River Boat Adventure ride and five water play areas, all of which are wheelchair accessible.

"Morgan's Inspiration Island promises to give individuals with physical or cognitive special needs a place where they can splash and play without barriers," said Gordon Hartman, founder of Morgan's Wonderland, in a news release.

READ ALSO: Here's when Central and South Texas water parks open for the summer

For ticket pricing and hours of operation, visit Morgan's Wonderland website.

jthorpe@express-news.net

@jerilynnthorpe
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko may meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at about 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, the 112.Ukraine television channel reported on Monday.

"During the president's visit to the United States, which will last two days, Poroshenko is expected to meet with U.S. President Trump. This visit may take place at about 6:00 p.m. Kyiv time tomorrow, although there is still no final confirmation or details of this meeting so far," a female correspondent of the TV channel reported from Washington.

Poroshenko is expected to arrive in Washington at about 6:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday. "Upon arrival, the president is due to meet with the Ukrainian community in Washington near the memorial to the Holodomor. A prayer should also be conducted there," she said.
STRATFORD  The body of a missing New York man was recovered from Long Island Sound.

The body of Gregory Blanco, 41, from Northport, N.Y., was found after an all-out search by the Coast Guard and local agencies.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Blanco during this painful time, said Cmdr. Kevin Reed, deputy Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound.

Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound watchstanders received a call Monday about 8:30 a.m., from a good Samaritan reporting an unmanned red, 14-foot, one person kayak north of Stratford Shoal Middle Ground.

Sector Long Island Sound issued an urgent marine information broadcast on VHF-channel-16 and launched a boat crew from Coast Guard Station New Haven and Eatons Neck.

The boat crews arrived on the scene and located the kayak with personal items on board. Markings on the kayak and the position it was found in suggested the owner departed out of the Northport area.

Suffolk County Police Department officials located Blanco's vehicle at the Soundview Boat Ramp Marina in Northport.

The National Weather Service posted a small craft advisory for Monday because seas were two to four feet, with southwest wind gusts of up to 25 knots. The water temperature is a chilly 60 degrees in the middle of the Sound.

Stratford Shoal is essentially in the middle of Long Island Sound. A lighthouse on the site warns mariners of rocks and shallow water depths.
The Texas A&M University System said Monday that it hopes to join up with private entities to create a state-of-the-art data center on its developing campus in Bryan.

The system wants to enter into a long-term lease with a company that can offer backup services for big Austin and Houston organizations, the system said. Proposals will be due in July.

Phillip Ray, Texas A&M's vice chancellor for business affairs, said Monday morning that the center would be different in scope than the University of Texas System's called-off proposal to develop a data science center in Houston.

The Bryan center, developed by a private partner, would host applications and network operations for business customers on-site, he said. Texas A&M has initially allocated 30 acres for the center, though the space could increase. He said he expects some proposals to include anchor tenants in business or research.

The Texas A&M University System first announced its Bryan campus on an abandoned air base near the flagships campus about a year ago, saying that it would bring product innovation and research in fields like engineering, transportation and cybersecurity.

Regents approved initial plans for the campus  called RELLIS, an acronym for Texas A&Ms core values  in September.

Ray said there could be opportunities for research and instruction within the data center but that Texas A&M's plans would not delve into data analytics, a key portion of UT's proposal. Texas A&M would focus more on cloud storage and co-location services, where businesses would rent servers or hardware.

Some in Houston havent given up on the UT Systems plans, arguing that Houstons economy needs an entity like the one UT pitched. Mayor Sylvester Turner in May endorsed the proposal and called for Texas A&M, UT, the University of Houston, Rice University and Texas Southern University to collaborate on the project.

"The UT data center would be an ideal customer of ours, to back up their data," Ray said. "We'd be perfectly happy with that."
Handout

ROUND ROCK  With perhaps all the fiery rhetoric a certified public accountant can possibly muster in nearly 100-degree heat, businessman Mike Collier on Saturday afternoon officially launched his Democratic bid to be the next presiding officer of the Texas Senate.

The campaign kickoff seemed to eschew arguments about "turning Texas blue," focusing on the idea that the race should be about common-sense solutions instead of partisanship and ideology. Collier, a businessman who lives in Houston, argued he is ready to address critical public policy questions facing a state that is for the first time in years beginning to lag economically.
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Members of the Sam Houston Area Radio Klub (SHARK) is preparing to show off their skills in ham radio to the Cleveland public at their Annual Field Day on June 24-25.

SHARK is a club dedicated to the use of ham radios, which are often used for non-commercial purposes. However, ham radios are also integral in emergency situations as they become a reliable form of communication when all other forms of communication fail.

Ham radios have also proven to be useful during war time.

"We provided free phone calls and communication services during Vietnam," said Robert "Bub" Melton of SHARK.

Held on the fourth weekend in the month of June every year, Annual Field Day gives ham operators a chance to prove their skills in communications.

"All hams are supposed to go off and show what we can do in an emergency situation," said "Bub" Melton. "Basically it's a preparation practice thing."

Annual Field Day is sponsored by the Annual Radio Relay League and also acts as a competition of sorts, which has existed since 1933.

SHARK normally holds its competition down CR 2168. However, this year they are taking their demonstration closer into Cleveland.

"This time we're going to do it here in town in the Old City Park," said Melton.

Melton says SHARK hopes that by bringing the Annual Field Day demonstrations into town they will be able to better demonstrate their capabilities to others.

"We moved it to town this time in order for it to be easier for people to see what we do," he said.

Annual Field Day is scheduled for June 24-25 at the Old City Park located at 320 Hubert St. Cleveland, Texas 77327. The event begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday and ends at 1 p.m. Sunday. Anyone interested in ham radio or information on obtaining a license to operate one can email Melton at n5bum@gmail.com.

"We'll also provide schooling and testing to help a person get their ham radio licensing," said Melton.

More information can also be found at www.shark.org.
Submitted

The local Libertad Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) announced Anjali Dalwadi as this year's scholarship recipient.

The Libertad Chapter selects a student from each high school in Liberty County to be recognized as a DAR Good Citizen. Each of the recognized students is invited to write an essay to compete for the chapter's annual scholarship. Anjali Dalwadi, daughter of Shailesh and Jignasha Dalwadi, wrote the winning essay. Dalwadi, a graduate of Cleveland High School, plans to attend the University of Texas in the fall.
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San Jacinto County celebrated Juneteenth's 152nd anniversary on Saturday, June 17, on the Coldspring Courthouse square complete with reflections on its importance and a parade through the streets.

Juneteenth is a day that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. Although it is typically celebrated on June 19, The Friends of Hopewell holds it on the Saturday closest to Juneteenth.

The Friends of Hopewell is an organization that seeks to preserve and restore African-American heritage in San Jacinto County.

The event began at the Coldspring courthouse square with Ester Elmore-Wynn presiding and welcoming attendees. A prayer by Minister Douglas Jackson followed before Dale Everitt of the San Jacinto County Veterans Service Office delivered some brief history.

Everitt discussed how Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed at Galveston with news that the war had ended in 1865.

"At the time that the general came down they had been negotiating with the State of Texas for a few months," Everitt said.

The State of Texas allegedly had an estimate of 250,000 slaves at this point in time and was in chaos after the sitting governor fled to Mexico and the state's treasury was wiped out.

"General Granger was here to make sure the State of Texas knew the proclamation and the law," said Everitt.

In 1870, the Fifteenth Amendment was enacted, which extended the right to vote to all races in the United States. This prompted many states to create poll taxes and literacy tests to keep African-Americans, Native Americans and poor whites from voting.

"It did not stop until 1966," said Everitt.

Everitt told a story of an African-American veteran of World War I who learned the German language during the course of the conflict. When he returned home he decided to vote, only to be met with a literacy test.

The presenter of the test showed it in German in order to further complicate the matter for voters.

"In perfect German, he read that letter," said Everitt.

Everitt concluded by asking the crowd to educate their children and the youth on the importance of this aspect of history.

"Educate them on what went on," he said.
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Editors note: This is the third in a series titled Choice on a Catholic Campus, discussing sexual health, reproductive rights and religion at Fairfields two universities, both Catholic.

FAIRFIELD  Universities have long been a space for dialogue, protest and dissent. At Fairfields two universities, growing national conversations about sex and sexual health mingle with the schools Catholic values. At times, those values conflict with programs  such as distributing or selling contraceptives on campus  that other campuses have adopted.

We support Sacred Hearts mission. Its Catholic in tradition, said Anne Mavor, Sacred Heart Universitys Health & Wellness Center director and an adult nurse practitioner. We provide education  its the best tool that we can give them.

More so than Sacred Heart University, Fairfield University has confronted questions about its sexual health resources this year after some students began advocating for more resources  condoms on campus, birth control prescribed through the student health center, more educational programs and literature on safe sex and year-round free Sexually Transmitted Infection testing at the student health center  at a campus-run student event in early spring, Lets Talk Sex.

University leadership explained the school could not grant student requests, in particular about condom availability, due to its Catholic mission. Some students concurred, noting students have access to condoms and outside care just off campus. Others harbor lingering concerns about student health.

Religion aside, were talking about the health of the student body and this has to come first because this actually impacts the students, and were the paying customers, said Alec Lurie, a 19-year-old student from Long Island, N.Y. who is poised to become College Democrats co-president next school year.

Resources on campus

Citing Catholic doctrine, neither Fairfield University nor Sacred Heart distribute or sell condoms or other contraceptives on campus. While other Catholic universities  including Jesuit colleges like Fairfield University  reflect that practice, most colleges do not.

Ninety-one percent of college health centers provide male condoms and 62 percent provide oral dams, according to the American College Health Associations 2014 Pap Test and STI Survey, its most recent results of its nationwide annual sexual health study. ACHA surveyed 152 institutions, the majority of which were four-year public universities though private universities were surveyed as well.

The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, representing the U.S.s 28 Jesuit institutions, declined to comment for this report.

Neither Sacred Heart nor Fairfield universities prescribes birth control as a method of contraception, though the AHCA found 97 percent of the student health centers it surveyed prescribe oral contraceptives. Fairfield Universitys student health center will prescribe oral contraceptives in tandem with an outside medical provider as part of a treatment plan for strict medical need, university Vice President of Marketing and Communications Jennifer Anderson said. The university declined multiple requests for an interview with health staff.

Sacred Heart prefers to refer students to community-based medical providers off-campus and suggests options that can be walked to from campus, according to Mavor. She added the university understands not all of its students are Catholics but to support the universitys values while also addressing student health, students are referred to the outside providers for condoms, oral contraception and a positive pregnancy test.

The Catholic Church preaches abstinence and its doctrine precludes the use of contraceptives of any sort. It condemns abortion as a grave sin and theft of life.

Sacred Heart does not delve into the topic of abortion with students; the university chooses to refer pregnant students to counseling and an OB-GYN. In the meantime, staff would talk with the student about staying healthy until they can seek medical and counseling care.

We dont discuss specifics, Mavor said. The decision doesnt need to be about a baby yet. The decision is about the pregnancy and staying healthy and what they need to do to stay healthy until they can see a provider to go over all their options.

Anderson explained Fairfield Universitys health center will help with medical needs, including sexual health and sexuality services, in a confidential, non-judgmental manner.

They handle everything from your standard cold and flu issues to other ones that are probably more significant  things like urological exams, pregnancy testing, Sexually Transmitted Infection testing and treatment, HIV testing that we do, gynecological exams, pap smears, she said.

But if things are beyond what the on-campus center is equipped to handle, staff refers to specialists or providers in the community. In the case of pregnancy, Anderson said students would be referred to an outside OB-GYN because the school doesnt have the staff to properly care for a pregnant student.

Sacred Hearts wellness center offers STI testing and treatment, including pop-up walk-in STI testing times that are new this year. STI testing is otherwise done with an appointment. Staff will also refer students to local health departments that provide STI testing if they prefer a greater level of anonymity.

Karen Flanagan, peer education coordinator, manages an undergraduate student wellness team with a goal of a really positive, healthy campus culture, tackling prevention initiatives from alcohol harm reduction to health relationships and bystander intervention. The students  part of the s.w.e.e.t. (student wellness empowerment and education team) peer educators team  are trained to help students connect with resources such as STI testing and science-based research-drive information online. According to the groups website, topics range from surviving spring break to safe is sexy.

The goal is to help Sacred Heart students become advocates for their own sexual, physical and mental health, Flanagan said, and to ensure students dont feel shame and access resources that are right for them. Peer-led wellness teams have popped up at universities across the country.

Peer mentors in Sacred Hearts program aim to encourage students to be safe and sexually healthy if they choose to be sexually active. They want the campus to be a place where people can talk about this and that its normal for a college student to be thinking about this and make decisions about sex, Flanagan said.

Beyond campus

Conversations about sex and sexual health are often difficult beyond campus lines.

In general, said Fred Wyand, Director of Communications for the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA), a nonprofit that combats STIs, we really struggle with this stuff.

The Catholic Church balances a strong belief in healthcare with its moral teachings on abortion and contraceptives.

The Church believes that every human life is a gift from God and that the life and dignity of each person must be respected and protected from conception to natural death, said Diocese of Bridgeport Director of Communications Brian Wallace. For this reason, while it has historically advocated for universal healthcare, the Church has also consistently opposed, as a matter of conscience protection and religious liberty, any federal or state mandates that would require it to provide contraception or abortion as part of its healthcare coverage.

Wallace said he could not address specific health concerns or university matters as he is not affiliated with either college, but he offered that Catholic universities need to address concerns like sexual health in a manner consistent with Catholic values.

Among goals at Catholic universities is to expose students to Catholic teachings on crucial issues, from immigration and the environment to respecting life from conception onward, Wallace said. But difference and debate is expected.

Is there going to be conflict? Absolutely, he said. The university is the place for that in the classroom, in the public squares in the university.

From a health advocates perspective, the education students  generally a young and sexually active population  enter college with is inconsistent across the country because sex education varies across schools. Contraceptives and open conversations become important tools to promote sexual health and well being, Wyand, of ASHA, said.

You need to really look at this as a comprehensive approach, he said, advocating education alongside access to care and services.

Wyand urged college students to have frank discussions about their sexual history and health with their doctor, often difficult conversations for patient and provider alike. Sexual health discussions should go beyond disease to include the ability to enjoy sex, talking to a partner about boundaries, pleasure, fulfillment and other aspects that support emotional and mental well being, Wyand added.

Contraceptives too play an important role: Wyand called condoms the one main option most used and incredibly effective when used correctly and consistently to prevent STIs. He believes access to a full range of contraceptives is best from a health perspective but cautioned an extra step  such as going off campus to get condoms  can be detrimental.

If you put an extra step or two in there, what that means is some folks who would use a condom might not, Wyand said.

Planned Parenthood, whose presence at a campus event sparked controversy earlier this year at Fairfield University, runs an educational arm that hopes to make dialogue about sex and sexuality more open. Pierrette Comulada Silverman, vice president of education and training for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, pointed out parents tend to talk to their kids about drugs, alcohol and other safety concerns, but less so about sex.

The result, Silverman said, is teenagers entering the world and college campuses suddenly unsupervised and figuring out issues related to sex for themselves. Planned Parenthood educators often focuses on consent and power dynamics on college campuses.

Theyre still young people. Theyre still trying to figure it all out, Silverman said, describing college students. Without comprehensive sex education and parent-child discussions about sex and sexuality, she added, theyre going to be fumbling in the dark.

lweiss@hearstmediact.com; @LauraEWeiss16
"From the Ashes"

National Geographic

fromtheashesfilm.com

The stretch of bone-dry, cracked land doesn't look like much. But until recently, it was a spring, according to rancher L.J. Turner of Wright, Wyo. "It used to be, there was fish in there," he says. Now it's one of 20 nearby springs that have dried up. Standing in front of his truck, Turner mournfully adds, "Coal is a wonderful thing, but it comes at a pretty expensive cost."

That scene - and the general message - are from a new documentary, "From the Ashes," the first film produced by former New York mayor Michael Bloomberg and his philanthropy division. It airs on the National Geographic Channel on Sunday, June 25.

The in-depth look at America's coal industry hops around the country, offering glimpses of the damage being done as coal is mined, burned and transported. Not only is coal the biggest contributor to climate change, wreaking havoc around the globe, it also makes its presence known in more targeted ways.

Around Wright, for instance, the coal sits in an aquifer. So pulling out the coal also means the water is gone from the springs that were fed by the aquifer. In Dallas, air heavily polluted by coal plants contributes to high rates of asthma among children. In North Carolina, coal-ash waste that was dumped into pits contaminated wells, making that water unsafe to drink.

These stories are told against a political backdrop, with President Donald Trump lifting environmental regulations and opposing the Paris climate agreement. There are voices from both sides of what is called "the war on coal," with some arguing that the industry's jobs are needed and the environmental risks overblown. And there are appearances by former miners who show how devastating layoffs and closures are for them and their families.

But the coal industry's actual opponent, several experts explain, is cheap natural gas. And one section of the film shoots down the idea of "clean coal," which has been touted as a solution by several past presidents, including Barack Obama.

So if there's no coal comeback on the horizon, what does the future hold? Possibly a lot more wind and solar power. The film takes viewers to another town - Georgetown, Texas - not because it has sick kids or scarred scenery but because it's one of the first cities in the country to run on renewable energy.

Read more:

U.S. cities and states want to implement the Paris climate accord goals. It's not that simple.

Climate change is keeping Americans awake at night. Literally.
BEIJING -- Money really can buy love, and in China's case, it appears to be helping to keep the European Union divided and ineffective.

Greece, a significant recipient of Chinese investment, blocked a European Union statement at the United Nations last week criticizing China's human rights record - despite rising concerns among many member states about an ever-intensifying crackdown on civil society, including lawyers and activists.

A coalition of human rights groups said it was the first time in a decade the European Union has failed to make its collective voice heard during the U.N. Human Rights Council meeting.

But it was only the latest in missed opportunities this year.

In March, Hungary - another big destination for Chinese investment - prevented the European Union from adding its name to a joint letter expressing concern about reports of lawyers in China being tortured in detention, diplomats said.

At a summit in Brussels on June 1-2, EU Council and Commission presidents did not forcefully condemn China's deteriorating human rights situation in public, nor call for the release of political prisoners, including EU citizens, according to rights groups.

The European Union also failed to mark the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre on June 4.

"On three occasions over three weeks the EU demonstrated no intention, compassion, or strategic vision to stem the tide of human rights abuses in China," said Sophie Richardson, China director at Human Rights Watch in a joint statement with six other groups.

The European Union has given no official explanation for its apparent retreat on human rights.

Reuters reported that a Greek foreign ministry official had described the proposed statement as "unconstructive criticism of China" and said separate EU talks with China outside the United Nations were a better avenue for discussions.

"Greece's position is that unproductive and in many cases, selective criticism against specific countries does not facilitate the promotion of human rights in these states, nor the development of their relation with the EU," a Greek spokesman told Reuters on Sunday.

China's COSCO Shipping, owner of the world's fourth-largest container fleet, took a 51 percent stake in Greece's largest port last year. China is also a major investor in Hungary, with Budapest styling itself as China's gateway to Europe, and Prime Minister Viktor Orban warning European leaders not to lecture China over human rights.

On Monday, China welcomed the Greek move, saying it opposed the politicalization of human rights issues or the interference of human rights issues in the internal affairs and judicial sovereignty of other countries.

"As for the internal discussions among the EU countries, I do not know the details," spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular news conference. "Here I can only say that we appreciate the correct position taken by the relevant EU country."

The European Union's failure to speak out comes amid concerns the United States under President Donald Trump will turn a blind eye to human rights abuses in China.

On Sunday, Natalie Nougayrede, a columnist for the Guardian newspaper, argued that Europe had a key role in defending "liberal democratic values" around the world as the United States retreated and Britain became less relevant.

Yet Europe's defense of those values appears less than solid, especially when it comes to China, a major investor and the group's second-largest trading partner, experts say. The European Union has also courted China as a potential partner in the battle against climate change and to defend free trade globally, as the United States moves in the opposite direction under Trump.

The joint statement by seven human rights groups called on the European Union to suspend its annual human rights dialogue with China - the forum to which the Greek spokesman was referring, and the next round of which is due to take place in Brussels on June 22-23.

That forum has deteriorated into a "meaningless low-level exercise," lacking clear benchmarks for progress, the human rights group said, arguing that the European Union lacks both strategy and credibility to bring change.

"The EU's failure to speak out on Beijing's rights violations is a body blow to independent activists across China and a betrayal of the EU's proclaimed human rights commitments," said Iverna McGowan, head of European Institutions Office at Amnesty International. "Instead of a forum for promoting rights, the EU-China human rights dialogue has become a cheap alibi for EU leaders to avoid thorny rights issues in other high level discussions."

One EU diplomat was reported to have expressed frustration that Greece's decision to block the statement came at the same time the International Monetary Fund and EU governments agreed to release funds under Greece's emergency financial bailout last week in Luxembourg.

"It was dishonorable, to say the least," the diplomat told Reuters.

But China's Global Times newspaper welcomed the Greek stance, quoting Chinese experts as arguing that the country focuses more on improving living standards, which requires "a stable social order that comes with some restrictions," while the European Union focuses more on political rights and freedom.
Writing about both legs of a plane trip being among lifes most memorable experiences is unlikely. A medical emergency flying out and a fire engine on the return to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport helped to make it so.

I was en route to interview for an interim position at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana. During American Airlines Flight 306 to Indianapolis, a flight attendants announcement was jarring. We have a medical emergency. Is there a doctor on board  a nurse  any health professional? (She stopped short of settling for anyone whod stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night.)

Learning the emergency was over and that a physician had responded, I joked, Im a doctor of philosophy, and almost raised my hand. She was ready for my outside-the-box comment. No bother, she answered, The passengers illness was physical, not philosophical. Well, all righty then, thought I.

AAs Flight 1382 the following night proved to be touching, amusing and cathartic. Veteran flight attendant Kim was all aflutter, making sure all bases were covered for the retirement of Capt. John A. Hechinger. Upon DFW arrival, he would walk away from a 28-year AA career.

Passengers wrote warm notes, as instructed, and were pre-advised about the final moments of the flight. Upon arrival, we knew the flashing lights on emergency vehicles would be in honor mode. Much was right with the world as we experienced the water cannon salute. While it welcomed him to retirement, it also reminded me there are far worse places to be. I have enjoyed reasonable health after open-heart surgery, and am supported by a wife of more than 50 years and an extended family of a dozen others. As a bonus, there still are some folks who tolerate my weekly columns and speaking engagements.

AAs newest retired pilot, only 60, is ready to be a tourist. It all begins with a flight to England and Wimbledon.

The New York native and Cornell graduate is married to another Air Force officer. Susanne, a Californian, was a colonel in the Texas Air National Guard, earlier serving as a wing commander in Kuwait. They met and married at Shaw AFB, SC, 36 years ago.

Their children, Jennifer, 34, and Andrew, 27, both AF captains, were present at the gate to welcome their dad home. His sister, Vivian Hechinger, flew from Florida to join the hugging. Theyd have been on the flight, but there was only one seat available, and it was reserved for the captains wife.

What memories, to wit: A flight attendant once told him a Thunderbird pilot was on board. Tell him wed like to meet him, he said.

When the Thunderbirder deplaned, there was much head scratching. Hechinger said the man was at least 90, had unkempt hair and missing teeth. The old timer vowed hed flown F-15s for the birds. Hechinger knew better; the Thunderbirds never flew F-15s, so perhaps he was on leave from make believe. It was cinched when the oldster said Colin Powell had invited him to teach Air Force Academy cadets.

Maybe someone should tell him that Powell is an Army general, NOT Air Force.

On a Mothers Day flight, a young boy, maybe 7-8 and travelling alone, was inconsolable. Caught in the volley of divorced parents, he continued weeping on the return to his father. Finally, the flight attendant sought Hechingers assistance. Attempting to calm the youngster, he asked if the lad had bought a Mothers Day gift.

I wanted to buy her a cup that said I Love You on it, but my dad said we didnt have time to shop. His tears continued.

With such compassion, its easy to understand why AA colleagues think John Hechinger is the best.

Too bad the new IWU interim chancellor wasnt on board. He, too, deserved a congratulatory water cannon. Awaiting his arrival is one of the most beautiful universities on the planet, and one that is solidly faith-based.

Hes a seasoned educator, returning to an area where he had served earlier at a nearby university.

I predict that he will serve there with distinction.

Dr. Don Newbury is a speaker in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Inquiries/comments to: newbury@speakerdoc.com. Phone: 817-447-3872.
Iran said it fired missiles at Islamic State targets in Syria in retaliation for the jihadists' deadly attacks in Tehran last week, a rare strike signaling Iran's willingness to escalate its use of military power in the region's conflicts.

Six surface-to-surface missiles were launched on Sunday from western bases in Iran at command centers, logistic sites and suicide car bomb factories in Syria's eastern Deir Ezzor area, 435 miles (700 kilometers) away, the Revolutionary Guard Corps said.

The missile operation "is just a very small part of the capability of Iran's punitive force against the terrorists and its enemies," the Islamic Students' News Agency quoted Guards spokesman Brigadier General Ramezan Sharif as telling state TV. "Regional and international allies of the terrorists must understand this missile operation is a warning message."

Iran had earlier insinuated that the U.S. and Saudi Arabia -- its chief regional foe -- had encouraged the June 7 attacks on Iran's parliament and the mausoleum of the late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 people.

Sunni-led Saudi Arabia and Shiite Iran are on opposing sides in a series of conflicts raging in the Middle East, and their sectarian rivalry is also at the heart of a Saudi-led coalition's recent isolation of Qatar, which has plunged the Gulf region into its biggest crisis in decades.

The U.S. and Iran, meanwhile, are supporting opposite sides in Syria's civil war. Iran is backing President Bashar al-Assad, while the U.S. is supporting a rebel militia and leading a coalition campaign against Islamic State.

The Guards' missile strike sends a message that extends beyond the fighting in Syria, said Amir Handjani, a non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council research center.

It sends "a message to the Saudi-led alliance that 'our missiles have the range and the accuracy to strike anywhere in the region'," Handjani said. It's also designed to signal to the U.S. that Iran is fighting the Islamic State on its own terms, he added.

In another manifestation of how the rivalries in Syria are playing out, a U.S. combat plane on Sunday shot down a Syrian-regime combat aircraft south of the town of Tabqah that had dropped bombs near the American-backed militia, according to a statement from the U.S.-led coalition. The Syrian army said the warplane was on a mission against Islamic State militants when it was shot down.

The "flagrant aggression" highlights coordination between the U.S. and Islamic State and "reveals the evil intentions fo the U.S. in administering terrorism," the general command said in a statement carried by state-run SANA news agency.

--With assistance from David McLaughlin
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will receive a $1 million prize for its efforts to make higher education accessible and affordable for low-income students.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, based in Loudoun County, Virginia, selected UNC for the prize as a "national leader and role model for providing equal educational opportunity to students based on academic merit, regardless of family income," the foundation's executive director, Harold Levy, said in a statement Monday.

The Cooke prize for equity in educational excellence was created to reward colleges with programs benefiting low-income students. According to a study by the Cooke Foundation, only 3 percent of students from the bottom income quartile attend top U.S. universities. At the same colleges, 72 percent of the enrollment are students from the top 25 percent income bracket.

The foundation, named for the late owner of the Washington Redskins, chose UNC for its expansive efforts on behalf of poor students. A total of 22 percent of students at the public flagship are eligible for Pell grants, an indicator of income status, but the university provides need-based financial aid to 44 percent of undergraduates.

"The reason for the establishment of state universities was to give, in the words of someone else, 'uncommon education to the common man,' " Levy said in an interview. "These are institutions that should be focused on low-income kids and moving them up the food chain. Too few of our colleges do that. ... The colleges that still focus on high-performing low-income kids from their state are exceptionally important. And UNC Chapel Hill is really in front of that game."

UNC Chancellor Carol Folt said the university's efforts to help low-income students begins in middle school, long before they enroll at Chapel Hill. The university's recruitment and outreach include tours of the campus for low-income middle and high school students from around the state. Its Carolina College Advising Corps reaches 23 percent of low-income public high school students in the state.

"The approach that we take is so comprehensive and so deep," Folt said. "It starts with kids in middle school, reaching out that no matter what their background is, they truly can go here."

Stephen Farmer, vice provost for enrollment and undergraduate admissions, said the university is dedicated to a holistic application process to ensure socioeconomic diversity.

"We have worked really, really hard just in admissions to really consider students individually on the basis of the whole of their circumstances rather than just to let us be distracted by one or two flashy numbers," Farmer said. "We know that people are really more than their test scores."

Farmer said that in recent years the admissions department decided against placing significant emphasis on the number of Advanced Placement courses on a student's transcript as one way to level the playing field.

Instead, Farmer said, the admissions officers are looking at applications to identify indicators of grit, resiliency and determination.

"Has the student overcome obstacles? Has the student taken care of responsibilities outside of the classroom?" Farmer said. "We think that there are a lot of ways for students to demonstrate their capacity to work hard here."

Farmer said that for admitted students, the school's Carolina Covenant program provides debt-free financial aid to qualifying students to ensure that an education is attainable regardless of income. Since the Carolina Covenant program began in 2004, the four-year graduation rate for African American men rose from 33 percent to 61.8 percent for the class of 2015.

For Folt, making college affordable and accessible for disadvantaged students is a personal mission. Her grandparents were Albanian immigrants, and her mother was the first in the family to be born in the United States. Folt worked her way through college at the University of California at Santa Barbara as a waitress at the Big Belly Deli on her way to earning bachelor's and master's degrees in biology before later receiving her doctorate from the University of California at Davis.

"We were raised like many first-generation families to just believe that you worked hard and you went and you made it to college and that college would open up opportunities," Folt said. "I just believe in the power of higher education to make your life have unlimited opportunity."
The U.S. Supreme Court will consider whether judges can throw out legislative maps as being so partisan they violate the Constitution, taking up a case that could put a powerful new check on gerrymandering.

The justices agreed to hear arguments on a Wisconsin map that a lower court said was designed to keep Republicans in control of the state legislature even if they didn't win a majority of the votes.

The Supreme Court has never struck down a legislative map as being too partisan, or told challengers what standard they have to meet to win a lawsuit. The case, which the court will hear in the nine-month term that starts in October, could open the way for a new wave of election litigation.

Critics of gerrymandered districts say they undermine democracy, leaving voters with little influence over who represents them. Republicans are the most frequent beneficiaries, largely because their success around the country in the 2010 elections let them draw many of the current maps.

Even as the court agreed to hear the case, the justices sent a signal they may be skeptical of the challengers' arguments. Voting 5-4 along ideological lines in a separate order, the justices said state officials don't have to comply with a lower court order to put a new redistricting map into effect by Nov. 1.

The issue has splintered the Supreme Court in the past, most recently in a 2004 ruling that left Justice Anthony Kennedy as the court's pivot point.

In that case, Kennedy voted to uphold disputed congressional districts in Pennsylvania, saying the challengers hadn't provided a workable standard for determining whether partisanship played too big a role. But Kennedy refused to declare, as four colleagues would have, that partisan gerrymanders are necessarily insulated from judicial review.

The voters challenging the Wisconsin map say that researchers using advanced statistical techniques have developed the type of test Kennedy said was lacking in 2004. Their test, known as the "efficiency gap," focuses on how frequently votes in a particular district are effectively wasted, either because they go to a candidate who loses or because they provide the winner with more support than was necessary.

The challengers point to the 2012 election, the first after lawmakers drew the new map. That year Republicans won 60 of 99 State Assembly seats even while losing the statewide vote.

Republicans "wield legislative powers unearned by their actual appeal to Wisconsin's voters," the voters argued in court papers.

A three-judge panel said on a 2-1 vote that the Republican-drawn map was so partisan it violated the Constitution's free-speech and equal protection clauses. The majority relied partially on the efficiency gap, calling it "corroborative evidence of an aggressive partisan gerrymander that was both intended and likely to persist for the life of the plan."

State officials, including Republican Attorney General Brad Schimel, urged the Supreme Court to take up the case, arguing that the map "complies with traditional redistricting principles."

The officials said in their appeal that the Republican advantage was a reflection of the concentration of Democrats in urban areas, as well as the benefits of GOP incumbency. They said the results under the legislature's map were "remarkably similar" to election outcomes under earlier, court-drawn districts.

"The only way the legislature could have attained plaintiffs' desired election results would have been to engage in heroic levels of nonpartisan statesmanship by abandoning Republicans' advantage under court-drawn plans, including by adopting a plan under which incumbents were more likely to lose their seats," the appeal argued.

The high court case could affect pending legal disputes over Republican-drawn maps in North Carolina and Pennsylvania and a Democratic-drawn map in Maryland.
WASHINGTON - The White House is on the cusp of a major decision about whether to impose new restrictions on steel imports, a choice that has divided President Donald Trump's administration while sparking global fears about a burgeoning trade war.

The Commerce Department has for months been evaluating whether steel imports pose a threat to national security, and it is expected within days to present Trump with its finding and a recommendation, which Trump could quickly adopt or decide to take a different course.

Based on its decision, the White House could impose new steel tariffs, import quotas or a combination of the two, said senior administration officials speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal divisions.

The move could provide relief for a domestic steel industry that says it badly needs it, but it could also raise steel costs at every step of the supply chain -- increasing expenses on consumers and on many of the manufacturing industries Trump promised to protect. Additionally, the move has the potential to upset some of the country's closest international allies, and it could spark a set of retaliatory trade moves against U.S. companies trying to sell their products abroad.

Restrictions on steel imports would be Trump's strongest move yet to fulfill his campaign promise to radically alter U.S. trade policy, but there has been a big divide within the Trump administration over whether to go forward with the move. The Defense Department and National Economic Council have raised concerns about economic and diplomatic fallout from protectionist moves.

Top advisers were scrambling to alter the final decision as late as last week, and there was confusion over whether the White House was ready to make a final decision. Top Commerce Department officials were supposed to brief congressional staffers on their planning Friday afternoon, but the briefing was scuttled at the last minute, Capitol Hill aides said. It could be rescheduled this week.

Trump, in late May, wrote in a Twitter post that he would take "major action if necessary" based on the Commerce Department's recommendations, suggesting he was open to following through on threats to try to revive the U.S. steel manufacturing industry by imposing new trade restrictions.

If Commerce does decide that imported steel poses a threat to national security, it will likely be based on the argument that the United States needs a healthy domestic steel industry to manufacture weapons and combat material.

The United States imported about 30 percent of the steel it used in 2016, or 30 million metric tons, up from 23 percent in 2009, according to data from the Commerce Department.

Trump administration officials have argued that a spike in production by China has hammered the U.S. steel industry. They allege that China floods global markets with cheap steel, making it harder for U.S. producers to compete.

However, since the United States already imposes restrictions on Chinese imports of steel, any new barriers are likely to have more of an effect on close U.S. allies, such as Canada, South Korea, Mexico, Japan and Germany, said Chad Bown, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

Canada, for example, is the largest source of steel imports to the United States, providing 17 percent of all steel consumed here. Top Canadian officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland, have expressed deep concerns to top Trump administration officials and U.S. lawmakers, people familiar with the matter said, warning that tariffs or quotas on steel exports could harm the economy in both countries.

Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke Friday, discussing what Trudeau's government termed "the highly integrated North American steel industry."

While the Commerce Department recommendations are expected next week, it's also possible the timing could slide if there's an uproar among White House advisers or business groups who are trying to block any decision. And there were signs that the situation remained fluid late last week. Trump administration officials had planned to brief congressional staff members on the review Friday afternoon, but the briefing was canceled at the last minute.

The Commerce Department is working on a similar review of aluminum imports, although that one is not seen as being as close to completion.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, one of Trump's closest friends, has told Congress he is considering three different recommendations based on the national security reviews.

First, he said the White House could impose tariffs - or new fees - against the import of aluminum and steel.

Second, the White House could impose quotas, which would essentially only allow a certain amount of these goods to be imported into the United States.

The third option, which Ross appeared to favor during testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee earlier this month, would impose a tariff on the import of aluminum and steel once it breached a certain threshold, or quota. Ross referred to this as a "hybrid" approach.

He said this model would have a relatively minor impact on prices of U.S. goods that use steel and aluminum "because it would essentially say we are protecting something like the original status quo and only imposing additional tariff burden in the event" import levels are exceeded.

The steel industry is strongly in favor of the measure and thinks the investigation is long overdue, said Scott Boos, senior vice president at the Alliance for American Manufacturing, which represents steel companies and steelworkers.

"Over the course of a protracted period of surges of imports, there is absolutely an impact on U.S. national security as well as economic security, that hampers the ability of the U.S. to respond to national security threats," he said. "We're hopeful that there will be relief that allows U.S. producers to recapture lost market share."

Yet all three approaches being considered by the Commerce Department would likely raise the price of imported steel. In doing so, experts say it would also encourage domestic producers to raise their prices - in turn raising the cost of other goods produced with steel.

That could end up costing far more American jobs than the measures would protect. A 2016 study by the Cato Institute found that 16 times more Americans have jobs in industries that use steel than are employed in the actual production of metals such as steel and aluminum.

Steel-consuming industries in the United States, like the companies that form small metal parts for appliances, autos and airplanes, say they already pay more for steel than many of their competitors because of protections that are already in place. They say further price increases would cause them to lose ground to international competitors.

"If you want to protect manufacturing jobs and manufacturing in the United States, you have to look at the whole supply chain. If you protect the top of the chain at the expense of the bottom, you're not going to create jobs, you're going to lose a lot more jobs," said Paul Nathanson, a lawyer who represents the precision metal forming and tooling industries, which oppose further restrictions.

If the Trump administration does choose to use national security as a rationale for restricting imports of steel, it would be a historic step forward for protectionism. The little-known statute that gives the president broad purview to make these decisions, known as Section 232, has only been used to erect trade barriers twice in U.S. history.

Numerous federal agencies, business groups and foreign countries have tried to influence the Commerce Department's review.

The Pentagon has raised concerns about how U.S. military allies might react if the White House imposed restrictions on steel and aluminum imports, two senior administration officials said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss divisions within the Trump administration.

Army Lt. Col. Roger Cabiness, a Pentagon spokesman, said that the Defense Department is aware of the Commerce review "and will work closely with our interagency colleagues on this effort." He declined to answer whether the Pentagon has any specific concerns or how the Defense Department is consulting with Commerce.

European Union officials have told U.S. officials and business groups that they would consider responding with their own tariffs, people familiar with the exchange said, adding that U.S. agriculture exports could be a target.

The Commerce Department was required to consult with the Pentagon as part of the process, and several people familiar with the review said Defense Department and State Department officials did raise concerns about retaliatory steps that U.S. allies could take if the United States imposed more protectionist, nationalist restrictions.

Even though there are many people advising Trump about this decision, few are as personally close to him as Ross.

In the recent Senate testimony, Ross told lawmakers that there was a strong case to be made that the weakening of the U.S. steel industry had become so severe that it threatened national security.

"There is I believe a genuine national security issue that must be considered in this case because steel is used in over 10,000 different products that the military needs and there is no steel mill in the country that can operate just on government business," he said.

Ross said, for example, that the recent "mother of all bombs" that was dropped in Afghanistan was manufactured at a plant that "normally makes oil field tubular goods."

In a recent report, the American Iron and Steel Institute found that just 3 percent of American steel production goes to national defense and homeland security. Yet experts said the Trump administration may be considering a broader definition of national security, which includes aspects such as infrastructure construction and basic industry.

Many trade lawyers fear that the administration's actions could cause other countries to follow suit, by blocking U.S. products from their markets while claiming national security exemptions. "There's a fear that they could ignite a trade war," said Dean Pinkert, a partner at Hughes Hubbard and the former U.S. international trade commissioner under President George W. Bush.

"Once we go down this path, it creates the opportunity for anybody to do the same thing," Bown said.

The founder of International Steel Group, Ross is just one of several Trump administration officials with years of experience working with the steel industry, including U.S. Trade Representative Robert E. Lighthizer, USTR counsel Stephen P. Vaughn and Trump trade adviser Dan DiMicco.

Lighthizer is scheduled to testify on Thursday before the House Ways and Means Committee about the White House's trade agenda.

The steel and aluminum decision would mark the third time in Trump's presidency that he decides how to proceed on an international economics issue that has split top advisers. He rebuffed the nationalist wing of the White House in April when he opted not to withdraw from the North American Free Trade Agreement.

And he rejected guidance from Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and others when he decided to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement, a move Trump said would help grow the U.S. economy.

---

Dan Lamothe and Karen DeYoung contributed to this report.
YOKOSUKA, Japan - In the dark of night the weather was clear, with a swell of about six feet.

Near where the sea lanes converge for the run into Tokyo Bay, the USS Fitzgerald was on a routine mission - though in these waters, mariners say, routine means always taking extra caution.

One of the Navy's most advanced ships, the Aegis guided-missile destroyer was equipped with the latest and most sophisticated radar equipment. Onboard the 8,315-ton vessel was a crew of 300. On the bridge, a full complement of officers and enlisted personnel was on duty. The commanding officer, Cmdr. Bryce Benson, was in his cabin, on the starboard side. It was about 2 a.m.

Just offshore from Shimoda, a popular beach resort town on a peninsula at the western entrance to the Sagami Sea, a container ship, the Philippine-flagged ACX Crystal, was sailing east from the port of Nagoya toward Tokyo. Four hundred ships a day sail through this gulf toward Japan's biggest port, and the traffic, the scattering of islands, and the lights on land can make navigation extremely difficult. This is a place where vessels - night and day - must take special care to follow the established rules of the road and steer clear of one another.

Early Saturday morning, the Crystal - for reasons that have not been explained - swung around 180 degrees in that busy waterway and doubled back on its course, heading nearly due west.

Minutes later, just before 2:20 a.m., the much larger container ship hit the U.S. warship broadside, just about amidships on the starboard rail, the Navy said. The freighter punched a wide hole into the Fitzgerald, breaching two compartments below the waterline where there were berths for 116 sailors, as well as a machinery room.

However, the timing of the collision is in dispute.

The Japanese shipping company that operates the Crystal, Nippon Yusen K.K., said that the collision happened at 1:30 a.m., an hour before the Navy said it occurred. Marine traffic data showed the Crystal making a sudden U-turn because it went back to check on the destroyer, company spokeswoman Manami Meguro said.

The container ship is now at the port in Yokohama, being unloaded, she said, adding that the company is "fully cooperating with the investigation."

A "tremendous" amount of water flooded through the huge gash, in the words of Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet. Sailors asleep in their berths woke to a powerful torrent of seawater. Seven sailors never made it out.

"There wasn't a lot of time in those spaces that were open to the sea, and as you can see now, the ship is still listing," Aucoin said Sunday at the U.S. naval base at Yokosuka, 50 miles northeast of the collision site. Gesturing to the destroyer, docked behind him with pumps continuing to bring water up out of the hull, he added: "They had to fight this ship to keep it above the surface. It was traumatic."

The collision crumpled parts of the ship above deck, too. Benson received a severe head wound and his cabin was destroyed. "He's lucky to be alive," Aucoin said.

The damage could have sunk the Fitzgerald, he said, but for the quick action of the crew.

Aucoin said the bodies of all seven sailors who died were recovered in the berthing compartment after the wounded ship had been taken into port.

The Navy identified them as Gunner's Mate Seaman Dakota K. Rigsby, 19, of Palmyra, Virginia; Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo A. Douglass, 25, of San Diego; Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T. Truong Huynh, 25, of Oakville, Connecticut; Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, of Weslaco, Texas; Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlosvictor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, of Chula Vista, California; Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier A. Martin, 24, of Halethorpe, Maryland; and Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary L. Rehm Jr., 37, of Elyria, Ohio.

When two vessels converge, the one having the other to starboard - to the right - is required to yield. That suggests that the Crystal had the right of way over the Fitzgerald, which was struck on the starboard side, but the details of their collision have not been fully investigated.

The container ship is nearly four times the size of the destroyer, and considerably more cumbersome. The warship is designed to be fast and agile.

"We just don't expect a very capable warship to be so badly damaged in a normal, peacetime environment," said Patrick Cronin, head of the Asia-Pacific program at the Center for a New American Security.

But mariners don't expect heavy freighters to turn around in the middle of a busy seaway, either.

In some ways, Cronin said, it didn't matter who had the right of way in this case. "In my mind, our destroyer is a more capable, agile ship, so regardless of who has right of way, our ship should be able to take evasive action," he said.

Because of the hour when the collision happened, many sailors were sleeping, but a normal bridge crew was on duty, Aucoin said.

There was no indication of any problem with the navigational equipment, he said.

Photos from the scene showed scrapes on the port side of the Crystal's bow. All 20 of the cargo ship's crew members were reported unharmed.

American and Japanese investigations are underway to determine how a technologically advanced U.S. warship was not able to avoid the container ship. Aucoin said he would not speculate on how long they would take to get to the bottom of what happened.

"This was a severe emergency," Aucoin said. "The damage was significant. This was not a small collision."

The destroyer, nicknamed "the Fighting Fitz" within the Navy, is salvageable, but repairs probably will take months, Aucoin said.

A retired naval officer who spoke on the condition of anonymity said he understood the collision had damaged some of the Fitzgerald's advanced combat systems and radio equipment.

Benson was the first to be evacuated from the damaged vessel and is being treated at the U.S. naval hospital at Yokosuka. He was awake but not able to answer questions.

Two other sailors were airlifted off the ship and treated in the hospital for lacerations and bruises. The remains of the sailors who died also were taken to the hospital for identification.

Service members and their relatives took to the 7th Fleet's Facebook page to bid the victims "fair winds and following seas, shipmates" - a traditional mariner's farewell.

Collisions at sea have become rare in recent decades as navigational technology has improved.

The current case recalled the collision of the submarine USS Greeneville and a training ship belonging to a Japanese fishery high school off the coast of Hawaii in 2001. The Greeneville suddenly surfaced underneath the Japanese ship, causing it to sink and claiming nine lives, four of them high school students.

"Things like this happen because of human error, sometimes complicated by some technical difficulty," Cronin said, calling it "heroic" that the Fitzgerald's crew was able to get back to port.

"U.S.-Japan cooperation has been fantastic," he said.

Japanese coast guard and military ships assisted with the rescue, and Japanese planes and helicopters searched the waters before the bodies were found.

The Fitzgerald is part of the Yokosuka-based naval group that includes the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, but it was operating independently of the carrier when the collision occurred.

---

The Washington Post's T.M. Gibbons-Neff contributed from Washington.

---

VIDEO

Seven U.S. sailors went missing after a U.S. Navy destroyer collided with a Philippine-flagged merchant ship off the coast of Japan on June 17. A number of the missing sailors were found dead in the destroyer's flooded berthing compartments. (Elyse Samuels, Monica Akhtar/The Washington Post)

- http://wapo.st/2rIb9av)

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The first hints of an uncertain future for the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS came last year, when Donald Trump's presidential campaign refused to meet with advocates for people living with HIV, said Scott Schoettes, a member of the council since 2014.

That unease was magnified on Inauguration Day in January, when an official White House website for the Office of National AIDS Policy vanished, Schoettes said.

"I started to think, was it going to be useful or wise or would it be possible to work with this administration?" Schoettes told The Washington Post. "Still, I made a decision to stick it out and see what we could do."

Less than six months later, Schoettes said those initial reservations had given way to full-blown frustration over a lack of dialogue with or caring from Trump administration officials about issues relating to HIV or AIDS.

Last week, he and five others announced they were quitting the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, also known as PACHA. According to Schoettes, the last straw - or "more like a two-by-four than a straw" - had come in May, after the Republican-dominated House passed the American Health Care Act, which he said would have "devastating" effects on those living with HIV.

"The Trump Administration has no strategy to address the on-going HIV/AIDS epidemic, seeks zero input from experts to formulate HIV policy, and - most concerning - pushes legislation that will harm people living with HIV and halt or reverse important gains made in the fight against this disease," Schoettes wrote in a blistering guest column for Newsweek announcing the resignations.

More for you On World AIDS Day, activists brace for new fight in Trump era

The column also pointed out that Trump has still not appointed anyone to head the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, something President Barack Obama had done 36 days after his inauguration.

"Within 18 months, that new director and his staff crafted the first comprehensive U.S. HIV/AIDS strategy. By contrast, President Trump appears to have no plan at all," Schoettes wrote. "Public health is not a partisan issue. . . . If the President is not going to engage on the subject of HIV/AIDS, he should at least continue policies that support people living with and at higher risk for HIV and have begun to curtail the epidemic."

The column was co-signed by the five other members of the council who had resigned, including Lucy Bradley-Springer, Gina Brown, Ulysses W. Burley III, Grissel Granados and Michelle Ogle. As of Monday morning, some of their bios remained on PACHA's government website.

At Monday's White House press briefing, press secretary Sean Spicer said he did not know if the council members who had resigned would be replaced but defended Trump against accusations that he didn't care about HIV or AIDS.

"Well, I mean, respectfully, the president cares tremendously about that and the impact it has," Spicer told reporters at the briefing. "Obviously, the individuals that he's appointed here in the White House have been in communication with various stakeholders in that community to help develop policies and formulas going forward, but we're going to continue to do what we can from a government standpoint."

A representative for the Department of Health and Human Services deferred to the White House for comment Monday. A White House representative told The Post in an email that staff members from the president's Domestic Policy Council had met with HIV/AIDS representatives several times already.

The White House representative also pointed out that Trump had hired Katy Talento, an HIV/AIDS and infectious disease expert, to be his health policy adviser on the Domestic Policy Council, and said Talento is in frequent contact with the head of PEPFAR, the U.S. global AIDS program.

"I challenge them to identify those times and the people that they met with those times, because I'm unaware of those meetings, certainly at a high level," Schoettes told The Post. He also criticized Talento for making inaccurate claims about birth control in the past. "This administration has shown themselves to be anti-science in multiple areas. I don't know how we can argue policy positions if they don't use facts."

PACHA was founded in 1995 under the HHS to advise the White House on policy matters concerning the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Members are appointed by the secretary of health and human services for four-year terms; they are not paid and are based throughout the country. Over the past two decades, its members have included physicians, public-health specialists, lawyers, health-care executives and community organizers.

Though there can be up to 25 members on the council, a handful of vacancies meant there were only 21 on the board before the new resignations. Now only 15 remain.

Schoettes said that council's last in-person meeting was in March. It continued drafting policy recommendations, knowing that a repeal of Obamacare was among Trump's top priorities.

"We knew that health-care reform was pending or was likely, and we wanted to make sure that our voices and the voices of people with HIV were heard," he said.

Shortly after that meeting, the council sent a letter to Tom Price, the Trump-appointed secretary of health and human services, and received what Schoettes described as a "perfunctory" response.

The House's passage of the American Health Care Act in May, despite its pleas and research, was what finally made Schoettes realize the council could be rendered inconsequential under Trump. He explained in his resignation column in Newsweek the consequences that a repeal of the Affordable Care Act could have for people living with HIV:

"People living with HIV know how broken the pre-ACA system was. Those without employer-based insurance were priced out of the market because of pre-existing condition exclusions. And "high risk pools" simply segregated people living with HIV and other health conditions into expensive plans with inferior coverage and underfunded subsidies - subsidies advocates had to fight for tooth-and-nail in every budgetary session.

"Because more than 40 percent of people with HIV receive care through Medicaid, proposed cuts to that program would be extremely harmful. Before Medicaid expansion under ACA, a person had to be both very low income and disabled to be eligible for Medicaid.

"For people living with HIV, that usually meant an AIDS diagnosis - making the disease more difficult and expensive to bring under control - before becoming eligible."

Shortly after the bill's passage in the House, Schoettes sent an email to several of his council colleagues. He planned to resign, he announced, because the council was "not going to be able to be effective anymore." Five of his colleagues agreed.

"As advocates for people living with HIV, we have dedicated our lives to combating this disease and no longer feel we can do so effectively within the confines of an advisory body to a president who simply does not care," Schoettes wrote. ". . . We hope the members of Congress who have the power to affect healthcare reform will engage with us and other advocates in a way that the Trump Administration apparently will not."

Karen DeYoung contributed to this report.
The Atlantic hurricane season is less than three weeks old, yet it's already threatening the energy-rich Gulf of Mexico coastline with flooding rains and sparking tropical storm warnings in Venezuela.

Tropical systems in the Gulf of Mexico often grab the notice of energy traders because the Texas and Louisiana coastline is home to offshore rigs and platforms accounting for about 17 percent of U.S. crude oil output and 4.1 percent of natural gas production. They can lead to the evacuation of non-essential personnel from rigs and platforms, cause power outages and also disrupt shipping.

Two potential systems are gathering strength at either end of the Caribbean Sea at a time of year when multiple storms are unusual. One is near Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and may slip into the Gulf of Mexico overnight. The other is off the coast of South America and bearing down on Trinidad and Tobago.

"It is unusual but not unprecedented," said Bob Henson, a meteorologist and blogger with Weather Underground in Boulder, Colorado. "Both will affect land."

The system near the Yucatan Peninsula has an 80 percent chance of becoming a tropical depression or storm in the next two days as it drifts into the southern Gulf of Mexico.

The biggest threat from the storm will be heavy rain along the U.S. Gulf Coast, said Dan Pydynowski, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather Inc. in State College, Pennsylvania. There are upper level winds that could push the heaviest rain away from its center, which he said could probably come ashore anywhere from the Texas-Louisiana border to the Florida Panhandle.

No one should discount the damage these rains can do, Henson said. One forecast model predicted Monday at least 6 to 10 inches of rain could fall across a large portion of the Gulf Coast with some pockets getting as much as 20 inches.

"The last time that happened it was a major disaster," Henson said.

The system heading toward Trinidad and Tobago was about 325 miles east-southeast with winds of 40 miles per hour. While the winds were tropical-storm strength, the system lacked the structure necessary for forecasters to name it, said Dennis Feltgen, a spokesman for the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

"This storm is unusually far south, the center may go right over Trinidad and Tobago tonight," said Pydynowski. "There will be several inches of rainfall, wind gusts from 40 to 50 miles per hour tonight and early tomorrow."

An aircraft is flying into the system to take a closer look.

It's rare for a storm to threaten Trinidad, the biggest supplier of liquefied natural gas to Engie SA's Everett import terminal in Massachusetts.

"There have only been four in the last 150 years that we know about," Henson said. "The only hurricane that has formed was the Trinidad hurricane of 1933."

Henson said chances are its luck will run out in the next few days. It will enter a section of the Caribbean often called the "graveyard of storms" where it will be torn apart, he said.

While it's hard to predict what the rest of the year will bring based on early activity, these storms could be indicators of a busy Atlantic season, Henson said. An average season produces 12 named systems of at least tropical storm strength.

--With assistance from Naureen S. Malik
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When Laquita Lewis waved a knife at her 16-year-old son and threatened to murder him, she got off with a slap on the wrist: 15 months of probation.

But now  less than a year later  the Houston mother of four stands accused of brutally stabbing her 4-year-old to death inside a northwest Harris County apartment, leaving the toddler in a pool of blood.

This time she might not get off so easy. On Monday, the Harris County District Attorney's Office announced its intent to pursue a capital murder charge in the grisly case.

The sordid tale unfolded Sunday night after Lewis called the child's father and admitted to the killing, according to prosecutors.

"She's in heaven," Lewis reportedly said.

The worried father called police, who arrived at Lewis's apartment in the 5600 block of Timber Creek only to find the girl's lifeless body. She appeared to have been stabbed repeatedly in the chest.

"Our heart goes out to a four-year-old girl named Fredricka Allen, her father, siblings and other family members," Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said Monday in a statement.

"The unnatural act of a mother killing her own child is among the toughest for society to comprehend."

Before her knife-brandishing 2016 arrest, Lewis had no prior criminal record, though she'd landed in court repeatedly with a string of family court cases. The first was filed in 2011 by the Texas Attorney General's Office against Donnell Lewis Jr., the longtime husband who fathered three of Lewis's children - including the one she threatened to kill. After divorcing in 2012, the couple shared joint custody of their three sons, now ages 5, 15, and 16.

In 2014 and again in 2015, the attorney general filed suits against Fredricka's father, Frederick Allen. As with the earlier suit, a judge tossed the cases when Lewis failed to appear.

But Lewis never ended up in a Harris County criminal court until the 2016 case that landed her on probation.

The details of the case aren't immediately clear from court records, but somehow, a Thanksgiving day outburst ended in a misdemeanor charge for making terroristic threats.

Days after her initial arrest, Lewis was released on bond. In February, she was awarded deferred adjudication, a form of probation in which she would not have a conviction on her record if she completed the terms of probation.

Ogg's office said Lewis scored the lowest possible risk for recidivism when she was evaluated with the Texas Risk Assessment System as part of her probation requirements.

Now, she's being held in the Harris County Jail without bail. If convicted, she could face life in prison or the death penalty.

It's still not clear what sparked the slaying, authorities said.

Earlier in the day, it appears Lewis and her current boyfriend got into some sort of dispute, according to sheriff's office spokesman Thomas Gilliland. Authorities did not clarify what the fight was about, and it was not clear whether that boyfriend was the girl's father.

But the dispute may have contributed to Lewis's fatal outburst, Gilliland said.

After the slaying, Lewis abandoned the toddler and drove away, prosecutors said. Then around 6 p.m., she got into a minor car crash at Interstate 10 and Loop 610, to which the Houston Police Department responded.

Lewis wound up in Memorial Hermann Hospital that evening.

Prosecutors said in court Monday that she told the child's father and aunt about the killing first via text messages and then by phone calls.

Lewis did not appear in court Monday because she was still being processed into the Harris County jail. She is expected to go before state District Judge Maria Jackson on Tuesday, where she will be formally arraigned and an attorney will likely be appointed.

Although her case sent shock waves across the city, it offers eerie echoes of another Houston-area crime that narrowly avoided a similarly tragic ending.

In 2015, Jenea Mungia stabbed her 4-year-old son on the front lawn of the family's home. The boy survived, but Mungia was hit with the felony charge of serious bodily injury to a child.

Afterward, an attorney for the distraught mother said she was having "very delusional thoughts and hallucinations" at the time of the assault.

And, like other troubled Texas mothers before her - including Andrea Yates, who drowned her five children in 2001, and Dena Schlosser. who killed her 10-month-old daughter with a butcher knife in 2004 - Mungia was ultimately found not guilty by reason of insanity.

On Monday, with Lewis still sitting behind bars, her apartment sat shrouded in silence, with tricycles and toys littered across the sleepy patio.

One neighbor said she had no idea there'd been a murder next door.

"It's usually really quiet around here," Jessica Rivera said from the doorway of her second-floor apartment.

Blake Paterson contributed to this report.
A local woman warns the public of a man allegedly selling sick puppies to Houstonians for hundreds and ghosting the families after the weeks-old pooches die.

Erika Landers is the intake and adoption manager for PugHearts of Houston, and FOX 26's Angela Chen partnered to investigate the potential animal cruelty case.

WHAT NOT TO DO: Why you should never give your dog Ibuprofen

After further research, Landers and Chen found over a dozen former pug owners who say they have bought puppies from the same man through Craigslist and other online sites. About four to nine days later, their new dogs die from parvo, a viral infection that attacks the heart muscles of very young puppies, about six weeks to six months old.

"These people are buying puppies for $600 from a man in a parking lot from a box. I am worried about the deplorable conditions that these puppies are being born in but I am even more worried about the health of the mothers that are being forced to breed over and over again," Landers told Chron.com. "The only warning sign is that the puppy is small too small to be an 8-week pug." She says that the seller tells the buyers that the puppy is the "runt" of the litter.

For about a month, Landers has been working with the city and local animal shelters to potentially catch the breeder who's allegedly been selling the sick puppies, but the process is a slow one.

Chen reports that neither the Houston SPCA or Houston Humane Society are working the case because it is a civil matter between the seller and buyer. Though, the Harris County D.A.'s office has asked the Harris County Precinct 5 Animal Crimes Unit to investigate. As of publication, Landers has heard of whether the seller has been caught yet.

AMERICA'S BEST: Two Texas dogs up to become America's top dog with award

"If the City isn't going to lawfully stop him then I want the public to know not to buy from this man," Landers says. To see a photo of the alleged seller, visit FOX 26 for more information.

If you have any information on the seller, Landers asks you to call Harris County Precinct 5 at 281-463-6666.
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Trevicia Williams was Texas child bride at the age of 14 in 1983 and through her testimony, among others, state lawmakers have officially made it illegal to marry under the age of 18.

On Thursday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill banning child marriage. Before this new law, 16- and 17-year-olds could marry in Texas with parental consent and any child of any age could get married with judicial approval.

Treivica Williams was among the thousands who were married as children.

In October 1983, the Houston native was married at the age of 14 to a 26-year-old ex-convict and a current registered sex offender, whom she only met a few months before their wedding.

"You're only a child once in your life - only 14 years old, 15, 16 - once. To rob a child of those years - you know - from developing themselves and their character," Williams told Chron.com. "They're missing all of those important experiences."

MOVING ESSAY: My mom, 14, was forced to marry a man she'd just met

Williams worked with the Tahirih Justice Center, Rep. Senfronia Thompson, D-Houston, and Sen. Van Taylor, R-Collin, to bring the legislative changes to fruition. According to statistics from the Texas Department of Health Services provided by the Tahirih Justice Center, nearly 40,000 children between the age of 12 and 17 were married from 2000 to 2014 in Texas.

"There is no age floor as long as a judge signs off on it," Smoot told Chron.com in April before the bill was passed.

STATS BROKEN DOWN: The Texas counties with the most married children

Williams' story was among the striking testimonies given in the House and Senate. Through written testimony, Williams described how her mother picked her up from Aldine Senior High School on October 19, 1983, to take her to the courthouse to wed a man 12 years her senior.

Trevicia Williams

The couple was married from 1983 to 1987 and Williams describes the marriage as "tumultuous" and "violent." Nearly two years after her wedding day, Williams gave birth to her daughter, Agnes, two months before her 16th birthday in 1985. In August of 1987, at the age of 17, Williams divorced her husband.

"A lot of people ask me why and I don't have a concrete answer as to why my mother married me to him," Williams said. Currently, Williams and her mother do not speak to each other. "I can say I forgive her, but even with forgiveness, it doesn't mean to subject yourself to continuous hurt."

Despite her rough teenage years, Williams has turned toward her faith and education to propel her future. Williams earned a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a Master's degree in Behavioral Sciences and Psychology and a doctorate in Psychology.

"Most people become victims, but I was never satisfied being where I was because I knew where I was supposed to be," Williams told Chron.com. "I always reached for something higher."

RECOVERY STORIES: How life can look after human trafficking

Along with her work pushing the senate and house bills through this legislation session, Williams founded Real Beauty Inside Out, which helps mothers and their daughters grow healthy relationships with each other. A part of her goal is to build the relationship level of families in order to prevent child marriages.

"It shouldn't hurt to be a child and child marriages, hurt children," Williams told Chron.com. "They aren't aware of it at the time, but they will be." For more information about Williams' work, visit her website here.
A 40-year-old man died Sunday night after he got into an argument at a downtown San Antonio bar, sped off on his motorcycle and then crashed into a fence.

Paramedics responded to the crash around 10 p.m. in the 600 block of North Flores Street, where Juan Alvarez was found dead at the scene without a helmet on.
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The U.S. Patent Office has granted San Antonio a trademark for an old nickname: Military City, USA.

For years many have referred to San Antonio as Military City, USA, and now we are officially a registered trademark, a name that no other city can claim, Mayor-Elect Ron Nirenberg said in a statement.

The Office of Military Affairs, headed by Juan G. Ayala, a retired Marine major general, worked for a year to obtain the trademark.

A lot of other cities have also had claims that theyre Military City USA: San Diego, Colorado Springs, Ayala said. The reason to make it official is that we think that we are truly Military City USA.

City officials traced the first use of the phrase to an ad in the San Antonio Light in the 1950s, Karen Rolirad, deputy director to Ayala, said.

Other cities were given the chance to challenge the patent, but had not built a strong-enough historical case, Rolirad said.

In the future, organizations wanting to use the phrase Military City, USA will have to contact the city attorney or public affairs office. City officials are still developing the process for organizations already using the phrase, Rolirad said.

The city received the trademark in March and approved a logo this summer, according to a statement.

The military presence in San Antonio alone contributes $48 billion to our economy and is the largest single employer in the area, said Sen. Jose Menendez. Its natural for San Antonio to officially be Military City, USA, considering our active and retired military population that help make this city unique and prosperous.

jlawrence@express-news.net
A 34-year-old man was jailed Friday after he allegedly stole a pair of boots from Walmart and then ran over the foot of an off-duty police officer during his getaway.

Gabino Flores is now facing a charge of aggravated robbery. He remains in the Bexar County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

RELATED: Motorcyclist found dead without helmet on after speeding away from downtown bar

According to his affidavit, security camera footage in the Walmart located in the 900 block of Bandera Road captured Flores put on a pair of new boots, place his old shoes in the boot box and then walk out of the store on Wednesday.

A loss prevention employee confronted Flores about the boots at the front entrance to the store. Flores ran out of the store and got into his vehicle, where an off-duty Hondo police officer who was working security tried to stop him.

Flores allegedly ran over the officer's left foot and struck the officer's right knee while driving off.

RELATED: Police arrest 15-year-old in Saturday shooting death of New Braunfels teen

The officer was able to memorize Flores' license plate number as he sped away. Police were able to identify Flores as the owner of the car, and Walmart loss prevention authorities confirmed he was the suspect in the theft.

He was arrested over the weekend. It is unclear if he will face further charges for injuring the off-duty officer.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

cdowns@mysa.com

Twitter: @calebjdowns
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A 49-year-old Boerne man was jailed Saturday on accusations that he sexually assaulted three children on the same day last year.

Gerald Mohrmann was indicted on five counts of super aggravated sexual assault of a child. He remains in the Bexar County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

RELATED: Motorcyclist found dead without helmet after speeding away from downtown bar

Mohrmann's indictment says he sexually assaulted three children, one of whom was under 6-years-old at the time, on June 28, 2016. The other two victims are only described as male children under the age of 17.

The indictment provides no details regarding how Mohrmann came into contact with the children.

Representative's from the Bexar County District Clerk said no police records regarding the accusations against Mohrmann were available Monday.

READ ALSO: After adopted parents' arrest, S.A. woman shares horrific story of 15+ years of sexual abuse

Representatives from the Boerne Police Department were not immediately available for comment.

Super aggravated sexual assault of a child is a relatively new crime in Texas, according to a post from the Foster Law Firm.

The law firm says the "super" designation occurs when the victim is under the age of six or when there has been violent aggravated sexual abuse of a child under 14-years-old.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

cdowns@mysa.com

Twitter: @calebjdowns
French President Emmanuel Macron poses for photo with his supporters after he voted at the city hall in the second round of the parliamentary elections in Le Touquet, France on June 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Kristina Afanasyeva)

PARIS, June 18 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron's the Republic on the Move (LREM) party on Sunday won a huge majority in the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament in a second and final round of legislative competition.

The election result cleared the way for the France's youngest top official to control the country's political power over the five-year term, partial exit poll showed.

"French voters have in their vast majority preferred hope to anger, optimism to pessimism, confidence to withdrawal," said Ediuard Philippe, Prime Minister.

"A year ago, no one would have imagined political renewal like this. We owe it to the drive of the president of the republic to give new life to democracy. We owe it, too, to the French people, who wanted to give the national representation a new face," he added.

Based on partial vote count made by Kantar Sofres-onepoint pollster, the LREM alone won 315 seats, more than 289 seats needed for a majority in the 577-member National Assembly.

With its allies from MoDem centrist party, it is represented by 360 lawmakers, sparing the need to rely on other movements to pass legislation on labor codes, cut public expenditure by billions of euros, raise taxes on consumption and wealthy pensioners and invest more in training and innovative sectors.

On the right, the conservatives won 133 seats, making it the biggest opposition party. However, the Republicans would not pose any threat to Macron's governance.

In a punishment vote due to poor achievements, the outgoing ruling the Socialist Party, lost its lead with only 32 seats.

"Tonight, the collapse of the Socialist Party is undeniable, the president of the Republic has all the powers," Jean-Christophe Cambadelis said after announcing he would step down as party chief.

Winning her first seat, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Front, made her entry for the first time to the National Assembly after gaining the race in Pas-de-Calais constituency.

Compared to 2012 election, the anti-immigration party improved its performance after snatching 6 seats compared to two currently, to represent "the only force of resistance to the dilution of France, its social model and identity," according to Le Pen.

Exit polls showed hard-left "France Unbowed" to secure 17 seats, paving the way for the party to form an "offensive" parliamentary group "that will call when the time comes, to a social resistance," his leader Jean-Luc Melenchon said.

With a huge majority for his one-year-old party, the 39-year-old president dealt a fresh blow to the traditional major parties, by redrawing the lower house of parliament with the help by unprecedented profiles of novice faces, half of them had never held an elected office.

However a projected historic low turnout likely to cloud Macron's triumph to have free hand to put on the ground his recipe for the eurozone second main powerhouse.

According to opinion polls, abstention which swung between 15 percent and 30 percent over the four past decades, would be over 50 percent on Sunday runoff, a further sign for Macron that his stay at the Elysee Palace won't be totally rosy.

To Christophe Castaner, the government spokesperson, the French disinterest "is as an additional responsibility and it will allow Emmanuel Macron, Edouard Philippe to never forget that deep down there is no victory tonight and the real victory will be in five years when things will really have changed."

"Voters ... did not want to give a blank check (to Macron camp)," he added.
UN official hails the role of China in Africa's development

NAIROBI, June 18 (Xinhua) -- A UN official has hailed the critical role that China has played in Africa's development.

The UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Representative to Kenya, Eritrea and South Sudan Emmanuel Kalenzi told Xinhua in Nairobi recently that China has emerged as a key source of technology and capital in Africa's manufacturing and infrastructure sector.

"As a result, China has and continues to play a big role in the economic transformation of the African continent," Kalenzi said during the recently concluded Kenya Investment Authority and Shenzhen Municipality Investment conference.

Back in December 2015, UNIDO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade for the two parties to cooperate in promoting trade and investment activities in developing countries.

Kalenzi noted that Sino-Africa cooperation and partnership is built along the lines of mutual respect for the benefit of both sides.

"I believe that there is still a lot of potential and a big role that China can play in the development of Africa," he added.

According to the UNIDO official, Beijing has responded to the growing interest of Africa leaders who are looking for more trade partnerships rather than aid to the continent.

Kalenzi said that China is relatively advanced as compared to Africa in terms of technology and knowhow.

"So China can have a very big contribution in terms of helping to bridge Africa's technology gap," he added.

The Representative said that the Asian nation has also taken the lead in investing in the continent. "Some of the investments have made a difference in job creation in Africa," he added.
Fred Albert Zierk, a former Air Force counterintelligence officer, protected his country while raising a family.

My father didnt wear a uniform; he wore a business suit every day, his son Bob Zierk said while recalling life in Germany during the Cold War. Remembering his fathers trips to Communist Berlin, Bob Zierk said, It was spy versus spy. I knew that when he took his sidearm, he was going into a dangerous situation.

Fred Zierk died June 12 from complications tied to Alzheimers disease. He was 90.

Zierk grew up in Buffalo, New York, where his father worked for a womens college. His mother and a younger sibling died in childbirth. His family broke up after her death.

While living in a Catholic foster home, Zierk decided to leave high school. In 1944, he joined the Navy to fight in World War II. On April 1, 1945, Zierk was part of a massive amphibious troop assault on Okinawa, Japan, his son recalled.

After World War II, he mustered out of the Navy, worked a year in Buffalo and, in 1946, enlisted in the Army, his son said.

When the Air Force split off from the Army, Zierk followed the Air Force working as a military police officer. While stationed in Michigan, he met Joan Freund. They started their 43-year marriage in 1950. Over the years, the family grew with the addition of three sons.

More Information Fred Albert Zierk Born: April 30, 1927, Buffalo, N.Y. Died: June 12, 2017, San Antonio Preceded by: Wife Joan Zierk; parents Fred and Louise Zierk Survived by: Sons Bob Zierk and daughter-in-law Bich-Hai, Al Zierk and Greg Zierk; three grandchildren; and numerous friends and family Services: Visitation 5 p.m. Wednesdayat Colonial Funeral Home, 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City. Memorial service 10 a.m. Thursday at Colonial Funeral Home with 11:30 a.m. burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Reception follows at 12:15 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston Golf Club, 1050 Harry Wurzbach Road. See More Collapse

Family records show that while Zierk was in the Air Force, he was accepted into the Office of Special Investigations. Rising through the ranks, he ran counterintelligence investigations, developed operational guidelines and helped to identify espionage plots against the United States. The records show he received the Legion of Merit for his participation in counteracting a Soviet threat.

While serving in the military, Zierk earned his GED and took college psychology courses through the University of Maryland, his son said.

Although he did not go far in higher education, he valued it for his children. He and Mother checked our homework and helped us with it, his son said. He added, He was pretty conservative, believed in following the rules, spiritual development and the importance of school and family.

Retiring from the military in 1974 in San Antonio, he became a civilian special agent in 1979 and through numerous promotions became Region 4 director of operations, which supports the Air Education and Training Command. His career as a counterintelligence agent lasted 43 years.
Donald Trump tweeted about the terrorist attacks in Paris in November 2015 about 3 1/2 hours after they occurred. The following month, he tweeted about the mass shooting in San Bernardino, California, 90 minutes after the violence began. It took fewer than 12 hours from the time an EgyptAir flight went missing in May 2016 for Trump to speculate publicly that the attack was terror-related. More than a year later, it's still not clear what happened to the plane.

When terrorists drove a van into a crowd on London Bridge earlier this month, Trump tweeted about the need to be "smart, vigilant and tough" even before authorities identified terror as the motive behind the attack.

About 15 hours ago, as of this writing, a man drove a van into a group of Muslims near a mosque in London. The attack, which killed one person and injured 10 others, is being treated as terror-related by authorities in Britain. Prime Minister Theresa May described the attack as "every bit as sickening" as the attacks at the London Bridge and, earlier this year, on Westminster Bridge.

Trump tweeted his condolences to the victims of those two earlier attacks - both linked to the Islamic State - the same day they happened. Trump has not tweeted about Sunday night's attack on Muslims.

In response to a crisis, one of the simplest responses from a president is a carefully worded statement of support, condolence or outrage. Simpler still is a brief message on social media. Trump built his political career in part on his willingness to jump into any number of frays by tweeting about them. As we've noted in the past, he shows little reticence to tweet about things he sees on television right after he sees them. Yet, Monday morning: silence.

Trump's use of Twitter betrays his interests and disinterests. On Sunday, Father's Day, Trump tweeted, in order:

A two-part defense of his political success.

An outlier poll showing him as more popular than he is.

A retweet of the performers Diamond and Silk criticizing the media.

A retweet of his son critical of former president Barack Obama.

Praise for Camp David, where he spent the weekend.

And finally, a retweet of the White House's "Happy Father's Day" message that morning.

---

That Trump hasn't mentioned the attacks on Muslims in London isn't surprising. It took days for him to praise the two men who were stabbed to death in Portland, Oregon, while defending Muslim women on a train. It took almost a week for him to speak out about the shooting of two Indian men in Kansas by someone who thought that they were Muslim. In one sense, it's odd that Trump hasn't tweeted condolences to the victims in London, given the criticism he's received for his slow response to the above attacks - but, again, it's not surprising that he hasn't, given his history.

The broader question is why Trump remains uninterested in acknowledging such attacks.

One likely explanation is that Trump sees attacks by people of the Muslim faith through the lens of a rampant anti-Western ideology but views attacks on Muslims as being one-off examples of bad actors. The emergence of al-Qaida and the Islamic State reinforced the idea that there's a substantial, organized subset of the world's Muslim population focused on political violence.

Absent those groups, attacks like the one on Westminster Bridge or at Orlando's Pulse nightclub might more easily be treated as aberrant individual actions in the way that the attack on Muslims in London will be treated in some quarters. That there's a strong but largely disorganized anti-Muslim undercurrent in Western societies that can make Muslims a target of violence lacks the sort of readily identifiable markers as a coordinated terror group, especially for those unwilling to see them.

In June 2015, when a white gunman shot nine black worshipers dead at a church in Charleston, South Carolina, shortly after Trump announced his presidential candidacy, Trump tweeted about it.

The tragedy in South Carolina is incomprehensible. My deepest condolences to all.

- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 18, 2015

---

It was incomprehensible in the sense that murdering nine people at church is an affront to our sense of humans as rational creatures. It was entirely comprehensible in the sense that a white man who held racist views might target black people in a shooting spree.

To view attacks by Muslims as part of what being Muslim is about but attacks on Muslims as being distinct from the identities of the perpetrators demands seeing those two groups as fundamentally different. Trump has a presumption of guilt for Muslims that he doesn't for the white people who committed the crimes in Kansas, Portland and at the London mosque.

It's interesting to compare Trump's response to the Charleston shooting with his response to the 1980s rape of a white woman in Central Park, for which a group of black and Hispanic teenagers were arrested and which prompted Trump to buy a full-page ad calling for the death penalty for the accused.

Those teenagers were later exonerated when another man admitted to the crime. But Trump, even as recently as last October, seemed to believe that the teenagers were the perpetrators. "They admitted they were guilty. The police doing the original investigation say they were guilty," Trump said last year - eliding the critical point that the confessions were obtained under duress. In Trump's eyes, those teenagers are guilty despite the judicial system rescinding that verdict.

Trump's presidential campaign - and therefore his presidency - relied on the idea that America was under threat from terrorism and crime, a point of view that necessarily overlapped with America's complex racial history. That's the other reason Trump highlights terrorist acts by Muslims and ignores those against them: He has reaped political rewards from it.

Trump views terrorism through a very particular lens, and he won the presidency by articulating that lens. That it's reflected in his Twitter account, then, is not a surprise.
Questions about why Russia was interested in tipping the election in favor of Donald Trump are finally being asked. Former FBI Director James Comeys recent testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee provided some pieces of the puzzle.

When the full details are revealed, the facts are likely to provide material for a first-rate spy movie. The real-life characters involve a Russian bank executive who has been trained as a spy and a real estate mogul who happens to be the son-in-law of the president of the United States alleged to be using his access to seek Russian bank loans. And theres the Russian prime minister, chairman of the banks board, who attempts to have U.S. sanctions against Russia dropped.

Does President Trump play a role? These questions are raised by Washington Post columnist Michael Gerson:

Why during his campaign did then-candidate Trump praise Russian President Putin while denigrating President Barack Obama?

Why did the Russians hack the Democratic National Committee emails to influence the outcome of the election in Trumps favor?

Why did Trump attack the credibility of the FBI and the CIA in their investigation of Russian interference in the election?

Why did Michael Flynn resign as national security adviser and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner not report meetings with Russian officials when they were obliged to for security background checks?

Why did Kushner ask for a secret communications channel using Russian technology?

Why did Trump in his first week in office insist on removing Russian economic sanctions?

Why has Trump not released his tax returns?

Any good investigator would answer: Follow the money. The New York Times followed the money trail to Vnesheconombank, or VEB, a bank wholly owned by the Russian government and intertwined with Russian intelligence. By law, the Russian prime minister is chairman of the board of the bank, as was Vladimir Putin when he was prime minister in 2008.

Before sanctions were imposed on Russia three years ago by Obama for its military intervention in Ukraine, VEB had been issuing bonds aided by several financial institutions in the U.S.  Goldman Sachs, Citibank and JPMorgan, to name a few.

The VEBs plan was to tap capital markets in New York to help finance Ukraine lending. The sanctions, combined with the collapse of oil prices, caused the Russian economy to slip to 12th place in the world and the banks total debt to rise to $20 billion. The VEB needed to explore new markets to achieve a turnaround; to do this, sanctions would have to be removed.

At the time of the transition, Kushner was looking for overseas investors for his companys financially troubled Manhattan office tower. He met in December with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak about opening a secret communications channel with Russian officials. Immediately afterward, Kushner met with the VEB chief, Sergey Gorkov. Gorkov, apart from his role as executive of the Russian government bank, was a graduate of Russias spy schools.

In addition to the Kushner business deals with the Russians, there are questions that need to be addressed about relationships that Flynn and former campaign manager Paul Manafort had with Russian officials and oligarchs. These questions presumably will eventually be addressed in the five congressional investigations underway.

U.S. intelligence agencies confirm that Russia interfered with our election system, and no member of Congress disputes that. The questions that have not yet been answered are: who intentionally aided that interference, and who benefited by doing nothing to stop this attack on our democracy?

Following the money might lead to the answers.

Robert Brischetto of Lakehills was a sociology professor at Trinity University and executive director of the San Antonio-based Southwest Voter Research Institute.
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Isolation and protectionism are popular in some quarters, but in San Antonio we stand for a very different future. Instead of building walls, we embrace free trade, we celebrate diversity, and we welcome international businesses seeking a home in the U.S. San Antonio is already an international city, and we need to build on this reality.

But this will not happen unless our city government is deeply committed to making it happen. Previous mayoral administrations lost focus on building our international profile. The citys International Department had all but disappeared: There has been no direct link to it from the home page of the citys website, and only by guessing that it might be under Economic Development could you find any mention of the International Relations Office or the Industry and International Development Division. The latter appears to have had no dedicated staff. This is disconcerting for a city that wants to improve its international standing.

Private initiatives abound in our city, but they are not enough. The city must establish a framework for international development that is systemic rather than episodic.

Recently elected Mayor Ron Nirenberg has gathered a distinguished international advisory group, acknowledged leaders in the San Antonio community whose international footprint is widespread and whose efforts have benefited our city for decades. This group has generated the following priorities to expand San Antonios international, economic and sociocultural presence  to bring more investment to our city and create more high-paying jobs.

Adopt and promote the Welcome Mat, a wide-open-door policy, announcing to the world that we are open for global business.

Anticipate developments at the state, national and international levels, and move proactively to position San Antonio to take advantage of them.

Leverage our leading industries, including health care, bioscience, cybersecurity, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, to build international hubs for these industries in San Antonio.

Work closely with the Economic Development Foundation, BioMed SA, Cybersecurity San Antonio, and other established business, technology and sociocultural entities to promote San Antonio internationally.

Proactively work with our higher education institutions to bring research grants to the city and create programs that will grow our populations skillsets in ways that are attractive to national and international companies and organizations.

Expand the capacity of our international airport and seek to develop it into a hub for a major international airline.

Early in Nirenbergs administration there will be an emphasis on revitalizing the citys International Department. One thing he could do would be to make the International Department a vital part of the mayors office, with an experienced director empowered to integrate programs to make San Antonio a global model as a top tier international city.

This office could be staffed and provided with the resources to stay abreast of state, national and international events that affect San Antonio, to react to them quickly and recommend appropriate policies to the mayor and council. It could continually promote the San Antonio brand near and abroad to create portals for local and regional economic development.

San Antonio already has so much to offer and is such an attractive destination in so many ways. All it needs is to be nurtured and promoted. All it needs is leadership, and Mayor Nirenberg can provide it in developing and improving San Antonios international connections. Indeed, Mayor Nirenbergs stated intent to join the growing list of major U.S. cities that will abide by the Paris climate accord despite the U.S. governments announcement to withdraw from it, is a significant step in the right direction and a clear sign that San Antonio is seeking opportunity now and in the future rather than wallowing in the past.

This is, indeed, the city you deserve.

David W. Lesch is the Ewing Halsell Distinguished Professor of Middle East History at Trinity University, on behalf of the Nirenberg International Committee.
Whats wrong with this picture?

After the House passed its repeal and replace effort  the American Health Care Act  without hearings, in secret and without a scoring by the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation moved to the Senate. But there, an all-male committee is crafting a version  you guessed it  without hearings, in secret and accepting no amendments from Democratic senators.

This comes after years of complaint that Obamacare was rammed down the throats of congressional Republicans, which is untrue. The Affordable Care Act took a year of crafting, with public hearings, with CBO scoring and with Republican amendments accepted.

True, it passed without a single Republican vote, but its untrue that GOP support wasnt courted and that Republicans didnt participate in the process  if only in attempts to hinder.

There is, in fact, a whole lot wrong with the current picture. Not only is bipartisan participation spurned, the public has been shut out of the process this time around.

This is unacceptable. But the reasons are entirely transparent.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell wants a bill passed before July 4. And he fears any sunshine will give people the time to analyze and speak out if the Senate effort turns out to be as heartless as the House version. And then senators will experience what House members did  an outpouring of support for major portions of Obamacare and outrage that these are being removed or diminished.

President Donald Trump has reportedly told the Senate behind closed doors to make its version less mean than the House measure.

If only for a lesson in what not to do, the Senate should examine the CBO scoring of the measure approved by the House.

The results for the American Health Care Act from the nonpartisan CBO were painful and ugly. The number of uninsured Americans would jump by 14 million in 2018. It would swell to 23 million Americans by 2026.

If the Senate version merely decreases that amount but leaves millions of Americans still uncovered, this will not qualify as improvement.

In the House bill, costs would soar for the sick and the elderly, the report says.

For example, a 64-year-old earning $26,5000 annually would see premiums skyrocket from about $1,700 under the Affordable Care Act to $16,100 under the AHCA, Trumps replacement. The Senate must continue subsidies for those who cant afford coverage.

The House version of health care allows states to apply for waivers to not cover pre-existing conditions, potentially driving up costs for the very people who most need insurance. The Senate mustnt mess with pre-existing conditions.

Much like Trumps proposed budget, this House health care plan is Robin Hood in reverse. It takes from the poor to benefit the wealthy. The AHCA proposes cutting Medicaid by $834 billion over the next decade, reducing enrollment by 17 percent. At the same time, the bill would cut taxes for the wealthy by $230 billion, according to the congressional Joint Committee on taxation.

There are disturbing signs that some factions in the Senate are also intent on denying coverage. According to what few leaks there have been, Medicaid cuts will come gradually, which only means a lot of people still denied coverage, though not as quickly.

Rather than stripping away health insurance from the poor and the elderly and giving a tax cut to the rich, Republicans could serve Americans by fixing the problems with the Affordable Care Act.

If Trump really wanted to keep his promise to Americans for improved health care, he would encourage bipartisan action to improve the Affordable Care Act.
For hundreds of years, in the U.S., two bathroom doors have had the words Men or Women on them.

What will they put on a third bathroom door?

Carol Haufler

Credibility at stake

Have we truly descended this far? That the president of the United States offers to testify under oath, and we dont know if we could believe him if he did?

Wayne Haymes, Leon Valle

Focus on real news

Re: A cloud darkening the nation, Editorial, June 10:

The editorial lists a chronology of events claimed by James Comey in his dealings with President Donald Trump. It omits one very significant date and fact  sworn testimony by Comey to the Senate Intelligence Committee on May 3, in which Comey stated under oath that senior officials had not, in his experience, tried to stop an FBI investigation, and that if they ever did, that would be a big deal.

After he was fired May 9, Comey started claiming Trump pressured him to stop his investigation of Mike Flynn. He cant have it both ways.

A special prosecutor has been appointed to investigate. Let him do his job. If and when he issues his report, Congress and the media can deal with it. Until then, Congress and the media need to stop their obsession with this matter and start doing their real jobs.

What is Congress doing to deal with real issues such as fixing Obamacare, tax reform, infrastructure, passing a budget, etc? Are the media reporting news, such as North Korea, the war in Afghanistan, Russian and Chinese threats to our air and naval forces in international air and sea space?

Jim Netterfield, Fischer

A petulant witness

Re: Comey unleashed; Ex-FBI director offers a blunt assessment of a president whose actions unnerved him, front page, June 9:

WOW! Did you write your headline before hearing James Comeys testimony? Comey came across as weak, petulant, cowardly and biased against the president from their first meeting.

Sam Shelton, Spring Branch
Foodmaker Conagra is recalling more than 700,000 pounds of canned pastas due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.

Details of the Canned Pasta Recall

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the recall affects 717,338 pounds of spaghetti and meatball products sold under a variety of brand names.

The FSIS says the products contain milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on product labels.

The recall affects spaghetti and meatball products that were produced on January 5, 2017 and January 12, 2017.

Products Included in the Canned Pasta Recall

The following information was provided by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS):

131,718 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Libbys Spaghetti and Meatballs MADE WITH PORK, CHICKEN AND BEEF IN TOMATO SAUCE on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

71,614 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Del Pinos SPAGHETTI & MEATBALLS MADE WITH PORK, CHICKEN AND BEEF IN TOMATO SAUCE on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

38,330 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Hy-Top Spaghetti and Meatballs Made with Pork, Chicken and Beef in Tomato Sauce on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

22,064 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Food Hold Spaghetti & Meatballs MADE WITH PORK, CHICKEN AND BEEF IN TOMATO SAUCE on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

21,975 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Essential EVERYDAY Spaghetti with Meatballs Made With Pork, Chicken and Beef in Tomato Sauce on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

414,424 lbs. of 14.75-oz. cans with Chef BOYARDEE Mini pasta shells & meatballs, Pasta and Meatballs made with Pork, Chicken and Beef in Tomato Sauce on the label with package code 2100700500 and Use By Date 12/26/18.

75-oz cans with Hannaford Spaghetti & Meatballs in tomato sauce made with pork, chicken & beef on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/19.

75-oz cans with Food Club Spaghetti & Meatballs Made With PORK, CHICKEN & BEEF on the label with package code 2100701200 and Use By Date 01/02/2019.

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ZIMBABWE National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) secretary general, Cde Victor Matemadanda, says November 18 should be declared a public holiday to celebrate the gains of Operation Restore Legacy, which ushered in a new political dispensation.

Addressing hundreds of war veterans, collaborators, widows of the war veterans and their children as well as Zanu-PF Matabeleland North members at the partys provincial offices here yesterday, Cde Matemadanda said plans were underway to hold nationwide victory celebrations.

He rebuked former President Robert Mugabe for criticising the new dispensation saying he (Mugabe) was day-dreaming to think that his rule could be restored.

Cde Matemadanda said:

Mugabe will always do that because he thinks he is better than anyone else and represents the whole electorate who he thinks can vote for his wife. He is very old and we can forgive him for his age.

He said Cde Mugabe was a ruler who just like [Rhodesian Prime Minister] Ian Smith lived in a mansion and made decisions without consulting and punished people for mistakes while President Mnangagwa is a team player who is always with the people and makes informed decisions.

He implored Zanu-PF not to make similar mistakes.

Cde Matemadanda, who is also secretary for war veterans in the Zanu-PF Politburo said Operation Restore Legacy would not have been a success if Zimbabweans had not been united for a national cause.

Some people are calling for a return of Mugabe alleging he loved them better than the way President Mnangagwa does but I want to say its foolish to think that Mugabe will come back to rule, thats just a show of desperation from comrades who dont have orientation, said Cde Matemadanda.

When we as the war veterans association made a resolution to remove Mugabe, the same was adopted by Zanu-PF. We knew we could be killed for saying all the Grace Mugabe nonsense but would we have been paid for our lives? NO. We were sacrificing ourselves because of the orientation we had.

We fought for this legacy and we want to thank Zimbabweans from across the political and racial divide for supporting this national cause. We propose that 18 November be declared a national purpose day to thank people of Zimbabwe who joined in the march in saying Mugabe must go regardless of race, political affiliation and tribe.

Cde Matemadanda said he and some generals who he didnt name, would have been killed by elements from the G40 cabal that had captured Cde Mugabe through his wife, if people had not joined in the call for him to go. He added that the new political dispensation was grateful to the people of Zimbabwe for also facilitating President Mnangagwas return from exile after his brief expulsion from Zanu-PF.

As the SG for the war veterans association, I will invite all Zimbabweans to a celebration party where no slogans will be chanted to thank people for the job they did. Its the people of Zimbabwe who also facilitated the return of the President from exile, said Cde Matemadanda.

He said some people were being paid to discredit the new political dispensation hence the war veterans association was given the mandate to spearhead the campaign for President Mnangagwa and the partys landslide victory in the upcoming elections.

Cde Matemadanda said Zanu-PF was weak without war veterans, which is why it lost the Norton seat to an independent candidate, Mr Themba Mliswa.

He added that his visit to the province was aimed at deploying the ex-combatants into the partys grassroots to mobilise members as well as vie for positions.

I have come for deployment and you should go back and explain to the people the reason why we say this Zanu-PF party is King Lobengula and Mbuya Nehandas party.

When we talk of restoring legacy we are talking about restoring the African respect that was stolen by colonisers, he added.

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By Jerri-Lynn Scofield, who has worked as a securities lawyer and a derivatives trader. She now spends much of her time in Asia and is currently researching a book about textile artisans. She also writes regularly about legal, political economy, and regulatory topics for various consulting clients and publications, as well as scribbles occasional travel pieces for The National.

By now, regular readers should be familiar with Trumps drill. First off, theres a splashy announcement of a policy change: this time, its rolling back his predecessors Cuba initiative. This change is often made by a legally dubious executive order, or in a speech, or in some other non-binding form certainly not by initiating let alone completing the often messy legislative process.

And then, when the dust is settled and the rhetoric is parsed, the mooted changes end up signifying well, while I may not go quite as far as the Bard, but I will say: no mucho.

Announced Trump Changes

So, first off, what has Trump done?

On Friday, Trump made a speech in Miami to an audience of Cuban exiles, Remarks by President Trump on the Policy of the United States Towards Cuba.

The takeaway from that speech were policy changes Trump announced that reversed his predecessors detente policy first launched in 2014, and cemented during a presidential visit to the island in 2016. From the White Houses June 16 Fact Sheet on Cuba Policy :

The new policy channels economic activities away from the Cuban military monopoly, Grupo de Administracion Empresarial (GAESA), including most travel-related transactions, while allowing American individuals and entities to develop economic ties to the private, small business sector in Cuba.

The policy enhances travel restrictions to better enforce the statutory ban on United States tourism to Cuba. Among other changes, travel for non-academic educational purposes will be limited to group travel. The self-directed, individual travel permitted by the Obama administration will be prohibited. Cuban-Americans will be able to continue to visit their family in Cuba and send them remittances.

Most significantly, the policy reaffirms the United States statutory embargo of Cuba and opposes calls in the United Nations and other international forums for its termination. The policy also mandates regular reporting on Cubas progressif anytoward greater political and economic freedom (as per the Fact Sheet). The goal is to force Cuba to address human rights abuses, release political prisoners, hold free and fair elections, legalize political parties, and in general, open its society, as reported in this Wall Street Journal account, Trump Announces Rollback of Obamas Cuba Policy.

Trumps new policy leaves the US Embassy in Havana open.

Impact on Cuban Politics

What does this mean? Well, first off, some accounts suggest that the Tump policy will backfire, and instead of improving protection for human rights and promoting Cuban policy and leadership changes that the US might applaud, has actually dismayed moderates who were working with pro-engagement Americans but now fear association with a policy of open hostility toward the communist system could make them targets for repression, as reported in this New York Times account, Tougher Trump Line Toward Cuba Delights Hardliners on Island.

Continuing with that NYT account:

Trumps become the independent business peoples new enemy because  even though hes said he wants to help entrepreneurs  this new policy alienates entrepreneurs from the government, said Angel Rodriguez, a 27-year-old sociologist who works with the Catholic Church in entrepreneurship-training programs. That could bring them under fire now, and they could find themselves much weaker. Trumps new policy retains key aspects of Obamas reforms, leaving full embassies in Washington and Havana and letting U.S. cruise and airlines continue service to Cuba, although it will make travel harder by requiring most Americans to come in groups and banning payments to military-linked businesses.

Nor does the mainstream of US business seem exactly to be on board with the Trump changes. Permit me to again from the Wall Street Journal account cited above:

Unfortunately, todays moves actually limit the possibility for positive change on the island and risk ceding growth opportunities to other countries that, frankly, may not share Americas interest in a free and democratic Cuba that respects human rights, said Myron Brilliant, executive vice president and head of international affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

What Else Changes?

To elaborate, as with respect to hotels, travel will be directed away from GAESA properties, but will also hurt operations such as Air BnB, which, according to the Wall Street Journal account cited above, has been a major beneficiary of the previous US policy relaxation.

The Washington Post goes so far as to suggest, With shift on Cuba, Trump could undercut his companys hotel-industry rivals, that if and when fully implemented, last weeks announced policy shift might harm competitors to Trump businesses. For the moment, Im loath to credit that claim fully, absent undertaking my own research which I have not done for purposes of this short post. Given the general hysteria surrounding putative conflicts of interest between Trump policy and Trump businesses, I will only say that alleged conflicts of interest should be taken with a grain of salt, absent close evaluation of further evidence.

Now, I also want to suggest, that even with respect to travel for US passport holders, the actual impact may not be less than appears. The rollback certainly doesnt make things much more difficult than the status quo before the 2014 changes which even then, allowed various educational, cultural, familial, and group exceptions to the US travel ban. And going forward, this recent article, for example, from the San Francisco Chronicle, Cuba travel policy may favor the well-heeled tourist, suggests that affluent tourists will still easily be able to visit Cuba. As will, for that matter, will family visitors. Furthermore, before any changes can take affect, both the Treasury and Commerce Departments must commence rule-making procedures within 30 days after last weeks announcement. Policy changes wont take effect until these regulations are finalized, a process even the White House estimates may take several months. So until that process is completed, the exact impact of mooted policy changes will remain unclear.

I also want to mention another reason the changes may have even less impact than at first it may seem. A recent MarketWatch piece, Why American tourists dont want to travel to Cuba, suggests that after an initial flurry, theres been a drop-off in the interest of US tourists in Cuban travel, largely due to its lagging infrastructure. Sad as I am to see this Ive always wanted to visit Cuba and am not sure I want to pony up for an expensive group tour, as thats far from my preferred mode of travel it seems from that even if the agencies interpret Trumps rhetoric strictly, US passport holders will still be able to visit Cuba, on much the same terms that have prevailed for the last several decades.

The Wall Street Journal account cited above also suggests that travel to Cuba hasnt quite met the expected demand:

Scheduled air service between the U.S. and Cuba resumed last summer for the first time in 50 years. Cuba attracted a record 4 million foreign- visitor arrivals last year, up 13% from 2015, according to the Cuban government. While Canadians remained the largest group, Cuban Americans and other U.S. visitors numbered 614,000, up 34% from the prior year. But supply outstripped demand, and three U.S. airlines quit the market this year.

So if the expected interest of American tourists has yet to match expectations, and indeed, has fallen off, will the announced Trump tigthening actually change much at all?

Bottom Line

Im going to go out on a limb here. And I suggest that at least with respect to this policy, Trumps proving himself adept at hammering rhetoric that promises one thing particularly to a set of supporters while the actual policy changes he announces, let alone ultimately manages to implement whether or not we believe in them dont amount to all that much. Does that sound familiar?
Sound waves direct particles to self-assemble, self-heal (Nanowerk News) An elegantly simple experiment with floating particles self-assembling in response to sound waves has provided a new framework for studying how seemingly lifelike behaviors emerge in response to external forces.

Scientists at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) demonstrated how particles, floating on top of a glycerin-water solution, synchronize in response to acoustic waves blasted from a computer speaker.

The study, published in the journal Nature Materials ("Emergence of an enslaved phononic bandgap in a non-equilibrium pseudo-crystal"), could help address fundamental questions about energy dissipation and how it allows living and nonliving systems to adapt to their environment when they are out of thermodynamic equilibrium.

Close up photograph of the self-assembling particles in the clear acrylic tube. These particles consist of cut plastic straws (blue) sealed to a flat plastic chip (black), which float on top of a water-glycerin solution. (Image: Chad Ropp/Berkeley Lab)

"Dynamic self-assembly under non-equilibrium is not only important in physics, but also in our living world," said Xiang Zhang, corresponding author of the paper and a senior faculty scientist at Berkeley Lab's Materials Sciences Division with a joint appointment at UC Berkeley. "However, the underlying principles governing this are only partially understood. This work provides a simple yet elegant platform to study and understand such phenomena."

To hear some physicists describe it, this state of non-equilibrium, characterized by the ability to constantly change and evolve, is the essence of life. It applies to biological systems, from cells to ecosystems, as well as to certain nonbiological systems, such as weather or climate patterns. Studying non-equilibrium systems gets theorists a bit closer to understanding how life -- particularly intelligent life -- emerges.

However, it is complicated and hard to study because non-equilibrium systems are open systems, Zhang said. He noted that physicists like to study things that are stable and in closed systems.

"We show that individually 'dumb' particles can self-organize far from equilibrium by dissipating energy and emerge with a collective trait that is dynamically adaptive to and reflective of their environment," said study co-lead author Chad Ropp, a postdoctoral researcher in Zhang's group. "In this case, the particles followed the 'beat' of a sound wave generated from a computer speaker."

Notably, after the researchers intentionally broke up the particle party, the pieces would reassemble, showing a capacity to self-heal.

Ropp noted that this work could eventually lead to a wide variety of "smart" applications, such as adaptive camouflage that responds to sound and light waves, or blank-slate materials whose properties are written on demand by externally controlled drives.

While previous studies have shown that particles are capable of self-assembly in response to an external force, this paper presents a general framework that researchers can use to study the mechanisms of adaptation in non-equilibrium systems.

"The distinction in our work is that we can predict what happens - how the particles will behave - which is unexpected," said another co-lead author Nicolas Bachelard, who is also a postdoctoral researcher in Zhang's group.

As the sound waves traveled at a frequency of 4 kilohertz, the scattering particles moved along at about 1 centimeter per minute. Within 10 minutes, the collective pattern of the particles emerged, where the distance between the particles was surprisingly non-uniform. The researchers found that the self-assembled particles exhibited a phononic bandgap - a frequency range in which acoustic waves cannot pass - whose edge was inextricably linked, or "enslaved," to the 4 kHz input.

"This is a characteristic that was not present with the individual particles," said Bachelard. "It only appeared when the particles collectively organized, which is why we call this an emergent property of our structure under non-equilibrium conditions."

Photograph of the experimental setup, which consists of a 2-meter-long acrylic tube with funnels at both ends to direct the sound from a computer speaker (bottom left) out to absorbing media (top right). A web camera is set above the setup to track the motion of the particles, and a microphone is inserted into the output funnel to measure the transmission spectrum in time. (Image: Chad Ropp/Berkeley Lab)

The experimental design could hardly have been simpler. For the waveguide, the researchers used a 2-meter-long acrylic tube that contained a 5-millimeter-deep pool of a glycerin-water solution. The particles were made from straws floating on top of a flat piece of plastic, and the sound source came from off-the-shelf computer speakers that researchers directed into the tube via a plastic funnel. Measuring the sound waves proved to be the most technical part of the experiment.

"This is something you could do yourself in your garage," said Ropp. "It was a dirt-cheap experiment with parts that are available at your corner hardware store. At one point, we needed bigger straws, so I went out and bought some boba tea. The setup was extremely simple, but it showed the physics beautifully."

The experiment focused on acoustic waves because soundproofing was easier to achieve, but the principles underlying the behavior they observed would be applicable to any wave system, the researchers said.

This fundamental research could form the basis for developing intelligent networks that perform simple non-algorithmic computation, with a future toward systems that perform sentient-like decision making, the researchers said.
(File photo)

KUNMING, June 18 (Xinhua) -- At least 26 people were injured on a China Eastern Airlines flight, including four in serious condition, after the plane hit strong turbulence en route from Paris to Kunming Sunday.

The injured are being treated in two hospitals in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province after the plane, light MU774, landed safely at 8:50 a.m. Sunday at Kunming Changshui International Airport.

"We felt strong turbulence twice and minor turbulence three times. The process lasted about 10 minutes," said a passenger surnamed Zhang, who suffered a minor injury and is receiving treatment at Yunnan First People's Hospital.

A number of passengers were thrown from their seats and some were hurt by falling luggage, causing bone fractures, scalp lacerations, soft tissue injuries and other light wounds, according to the passengers and hospitals.

"We applauded when the plane landed safely. We feel lucky the plane did not crash," said an injured passenger surnamed Shang.
Inexpensive organic material gives safe batteries a longer life

(Nanowerk News) Modern batteries power everything from cars to cell phones, but they are far from perfect - they catch fire, they perform poorly in cold weather and they have relatively short lifecycles, among other issues. Now researchers from the University of Houston have described a new class of material that addresses many of those concerns in Nature Materials ("Universal quinone electrodes for long cycle life aqueous rechargeable batteries").

The researchers, led by Yan Yao, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, report their use of quinones -- an inexpensive, earth-abundant and easily recyclable material -- to create stable anode composites for any aqueous rechargeable battery.

UH researchers have discovered a new material that has proven an effective anode for acid and alkaline batteries, including emerging aqueous metal-ion batteries, offering the promise of safe, long-lasting batteries that work across a range of temperatures. (Image: University of Houston)

"This new material is cheap and chemically stable in such a corrosive environment," said Yao, who is also a principal investigator with the Texas Center for Superconductivity at UH, with an appointment to the chemical and biomolecular engineering faculty. The material also can be used to create a "drop-in replacement" for current battery anodes, allowing the new material to be used without changing existing battery manufacturing lines, he said.

"This can get to market much faster," he said.

Yao and his lab, including research associate Yanliang Liang, who served as first author on the paper, began the work in 2013, after he was awarded $1 million from the Department of Energy's Advanced Research Project Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) RANGE program to develop new battery technology. Other researchers involved in the project include Yan Jing, Saman Gheytani and Kuan-Yi Lee, all of UH, Ping Liu of the University of California-San Diego, and Antonio Faccheti of Northwestern University.

Energy storage is the key to wider adoption of electric cars, wind and solar power, along with other clean energy technologies. But the development of battery storage systems, which would be able to store energy until it is needed and then be recharged with additional generation, has been hampered by the lack of batteries that meet a variety of requirements: environmentally friendly, safe, inexpensive and long-lasting.

"Aqueous rechargeable batteries featuring low-cost and nonflammable water-based electrolytes are intrinsically safe and ... (provide) robustness and cost advantages over competing lithium-ion batteries that use volatile organic electrolytes and are responsible for recent catastrophic explosions," the researchers wrote. But state-of-the-art aqueous rechargeable batteries have a short lifespan, making them unsuitable for applications where it isn't practical to replace them frequently.

The stumbling block, Yao said, has been the anode, the portion of the battery through which energy flows. Existing anode materials are intrinsically structurally and chemically unstable, meaning the battery is only efficient for a relatively short time.

They worked with quinones, an earth-abundant organic material which Yan said costs just $2 per kilogram, demonstrating the material's benefits in three formulations.

The differing formulations offer evidence that the material is an effective anode for both acid batteries and alkaline batteries, such as those used in a car, as well as emerging aqueous metal-ion batteries, Liang said. That means the quinones-based anode will work regardless of which technology dominates in the future, he said.

The new material also allows the batteries to work across temperature ranges, Liang said, unlike some conventional aqueous batteries, which are notoriously balky in cold weather.

Yao said consumers would quickly notice one key difference in this change to existing battery technology. "One of these batteries, as a car battery, could last 10 years," he said. In addition to slowing the deterioration of batteries for vehicles and stationary electricity storage batteries, it also would make battery disposal easier because the material does not contain heavy metals.
New branch in family tree of exoplanets discovered

(Nanowerk News) Since the mid-1990s, when the first planet around another sun-like star was discovered, astronomers have been amassing what is now a large collection of exoplanets -- nearly 3,500 have been confirmed so far. In a new Caltech-led study, researchers have classified these planets in much the same way that biologists identify new animal species and have learned that the majority of exoplanets found to date fall into two distinct size groups: rocky Earth-like planets and larger mini-Neptunes. The team used data from NASA's Kepler mission and the W. M. Keck Observatory.

"This is a major new division in the family tree of planets, analogous to discovering that mammals and lizards are distinct branches on the tree of life," says Andrew Howard, professor of astronomy at Caltech and a principal investigator of the new research. The lead author of the new study, to be published in The Astronomical Journal ("The California-Kepler Survey. III. A Gap in the Radius of Distribution of Small Planets"), is Benjamin J. (B. J.) Fulton, a graduate student in Howard's group who splits his time between Caltech and the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Hawaii.

This sketch illustrates a family tree of exoplanets. Planets are born out of swirling disks of gas and dust called protoplanetary disks. The disks give rise to giant planets like Jupiter as well as smaller planets mostly between the sizes of Earth and Neptune. Researchers using data from the W. M. Keck Observatory and NASA's Kepler mission discovered that the smaller planets can be cleanly divided into two size groups: the rocky Earth-like planets and super-Earths, and the gaseous mini-Neptunes. (Image: NASA/Kepler/Caltech T. Pyle)

In essence, their research shows that our galaxy has a strong preference for two types of planets: rocky planets up to 1.75 times the size of Earth, and gas-enshrouded mini-Neptune worlds, which are from 2 to 3.5 times the size of Earth (or somewhat smaller than Neptune). Our galaxy rarely makes planets with sizes in between these two groups.

"Astronomers like to put things in buckets," says Fulton. "In this case, we have found two very distinct buckets for the majority of the Kepler planets."

Since the Kepler mission launched in 2009, it has identified and confirmed more than 2,300 exoplanets. Kepler specializes in finding planets close to their stars, so the majority of these planets orbit more closely than Mercury, which circles the sun at roughly one-third of the Earth-sun distance. Most of these close-in planets were found to be roughly between the size of Earth and Neptune, which is about 4 times the size of Earth. But, until now, the planets were found to have a variety of sizes spanning this range and were not known to fall into two size groups.

"In the solar system, there are no planets with sizes between Earth and Neptune," says Erik Petigura, co-author of the study and a Hubble Postdoctoral Fellow at Caltech. "One of the great surprises from Kepler is that nearly every star has at least one planet larger than Earth but smaller than Neptune. We'd really like to know what these mysterious planets are like and why we don't have them in our own solar system."

Kepler finds planets by looking for telltale dips in starlight as they pass in front of their stars. The size of the dip is correlated with the size of the planet. But in order to precisely know the planets' sizes, the sizes of the stars must be measured.

The Caltech team--together with colleagues from several institutions, including UC Berkeley, the University of Hawaii, Harvard University, Princeton University, and the University of Montreal--took a closer look at the Kepler planets' sizes with the help of the Keck Observatory. They spent years obtaining spectral data on the stars hosting 2,000 Kepler planets. The spectral data allowed them to obtain precise measurements of the sizes of the Kepler stars; these measurements, in turn, allowed the researchers to determine more precise sizes for the planets orbiting those stars.

"Before, sorting the planets by size was like trying to sort grains of sand with your naked eye," says Fulton. "Getting the spectra from Keck is like going out and grabbing a magnifying glass. We could see details that we couldn't before."

With Keck's new data, the researchers were able to measure the sizes of the 2,000 planets with 4 times more precision than what had been achieved previously. When they examined the distribution of planet sizes, they found a surprise: a striking gap between the groups of rocky Earths and mini-Neptunes. Though a few planets fall into the gap, the majority do not.

The cause of the gap is not clear, but the scientists have come up with two possible explanations. The first is based on the idea that nature likes to make a lot of planets roughly the size of Earth. Some of those planets, for reasons that are not fully understood, end up acquiring enough gas to "jump the gap" and become gaseous mini-Neptunes.

"A little bit of hydrogen and helium gas goes a very long way. So, if a planet acquires only 1 percent of hydrogen and helium in mass, that's enough to jump the gap," says Howard. "These planets are like rocks with big balloons of gas around them. The hydrogen and helium that's in the balloon doesn't really contribute to the mass of the system as a whole, but it contributes to the volume in a tremendous way, making the planets a lot bigger in size."

The second possible reason that planets don't land in the gap has to do with planets losing gas. If a planet does happen to acquire just a little bit of gas--the right amount to place it in the gap--that gas can be burned off when exposed to radiation from the host star.

"A planet would have to get lucky to land in the gap, and then if it did, it probably wouldn't stay there," says Howard. "It's unlikely for a planet to have just the right amount of gas to land in the gap. And those planets that do have enough gas can have their thin atmospheres blown off. Both scenarios likely carve out the gap in planet sizes that we observe."
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 group of 16 managers from dairy processing co-ops including Arrabawn, Tipperary, Dairygold, Glanbia and Aurivo have become the first in Ireland to successfully complete a sophisticated new Management Development Programme.

The programme is designed exclusively for the Irish co-operative sector by ICOS Skillnet - the learning and development division of ICOS (Irish Co-operative Organisation Society).

The new management development programme stemmed from a working group which identified training needs across the sector, including industry-specific training interventions, developed by the industry for the industry, to enable business growth.

The ICOS Skillnet programme ties in closely with the objectives of Food Wise 2025  the strategic plan for the agrifood sector which targets 85% export growth to 19 billion by 2025 and the creation of 23,000 new jobs over the period.

The programme also prioritises management development by co-operatives in line with the Report on Future Skills Needs in the Food and Drink Sector which is necessary to achieving Food Wise 2025.

The co-operative sector is funding the initiative and owns the intellectual property for the programme which is also recognised and accredited through the Irish Institute of Training and Development. It mixes lectures and workshops with self-directed learning, covering leadership, influencing and delegation, change management, communications and assertiveness, performance management, conflict resolution, commercial awareness, time management and the importance of high quality HR practices.

Each participant in the Management Development Programme undertook a DISC psychometric personal assessment test in advance to give them insights into how they handle or react to certain situations and scenarios in their business lives and careers.

Whereas previous courses offered in the sector tended to be function specific, the individual participants in the new programme were from a wide range of occupations including Agri-Retail Branch Managers, Production Supervisors, Plant Managers, Accounts Managers, Mill Managers, Shift Managers, Site Managers, Sales Managers, Maintenance Supervisors and Payroll Administrators. This is designed to create a multi-disciplinary approach reflective of real organisational and business conditions.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg paid tribute to Allied forces during a ceremony on Monday (19 June 2017) to mark the deployment of the NATO multinational battlegroup in Latvia. It is one of four now fully deployed to the eastern part of the Alliance in response to the changed security environment. Canada is leading the NATO battlegroup in Latvia, Germany and the United Kingdom are leading similar forces in Lithuania and Estonia, while the United States commands a NATO battlegroup in Poland.

Alongside Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis, Latvian Defence Minister Raimonds Bergmanis, and Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, Mr. Stoltenberg addressed the multinational force, which will serve alongside Latvian troops to defend the Alliance and deter aggression. The Canadian-led force based at Adazi military camp will include troops and equipment from Albania, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain. The Secretary General said the four battlegroups send a powerful message that NATO stands as one.

Mr. Stoltenberg stressed that the NATO battlegroups are also proof of the enduring strength of the transatlantic bond, with soldiers from North America and Europe serving together to keep the Alliance safe.

Mr Stoltenberg then held talks in Riga with Latvian President Raimonds Vejonis, Prime Minister Maris Kucinskis and the Speaker of the Parliament, Inara Murniece. The Secretary General will have discussions on Tuesday (20 June 2017) with senior government leaders in Lithuania. He will also visit the German led battlegroup there and watch it and other NATO forces take part in Exercise Iron Wolf.
(Natural News) There is an alarming rate of people  both children and adults  who are succumbing to health problems caused by obesity, according to a new study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington. Shockingly, more than two billion people around the world are afflicted with diseases that are related to being obese or overweight. The study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that theres a significantly huge number of people who are dying even though they are not technically obese. The research showed that 40 percent of the four million deaths observed were people whose body mass index (BMI) are not even above the threshold for obesity. The study authors are deeply concerned about the growing global public health crisis.

Obesity is a serious concern and its also very expensive. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than a third (36.5 percent) of adults in the U.S. are obese. These people are at risk of some of the leading causes of preventable death like stroke, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. More shockingly, the approximate annual cost of obesity in 2008 was $147 billion. Despite declines in the number of children who are overweight, obesity still remains high in this population. There are about 12.7 million (17 percent) of obese children and adolescents as of 2014.

The study involved 195 countries and used data from 1980 to 2015. It also analyzed other studies on the impact of excess weight and assessed the probable links between high BMI and certain types of cancers: rectum, esophagus, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, breast, biliary, ovary, thyroid, uterus, and even leukemia. Data showed that in 2015, 2.2 billion children and adults all over the world were affected by excessive weight. The pervasiveness of obesity has doubled since 1980 and has continued to rise in other countries.

People who shrug off weight gain do so at their own risk  risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and other life-threatening conditions, said Dr. Christopher Murray, author of the study. He further added: Those half-serious New Years resolutions to lose weight should become year-round commitments to lose weight and prevent future weight gain.

Junk food can be considered as one of the contributors of this epidemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes the cause of obesity: It occurs when there is an energy imbalance between calories consumed and the amount expended. Junk foods are addictive, have low nutritional value, and high calorie content.

The excess sugar and fat contained in junk food accumulates in the body, leading to weight gain. When this happens, you become susceptible to other conditions, like type-2 diabetes and heart diseases. Not only that, junk food affects your energy levels. The high sugar content disrupts your metabolism. Moreover, eating these unhealthy snacks can lead to liver damage, high cholesterol, poor performance, and obesity.

Excess body weight is one of the most challenging public health problems of our time, affecting nearly one in every three people, said Dr. Ashkan Afshin, assistant professor of Global Health at IMHE and lead author of the study.

The fight against obesity may require numerous interventions but, in theory, preventing it should be simple: Stop reaching into those bags of chips. Its hard, yes, because it requires a lot of self-control but if youre seriously concerned about your health, youd put an end to it. You can also look for natural and healthier snack alternatives.

Sources include:

ScienceDaily.com

HealthData.org

NEJM.org

CDC.gov

Febfast.org.au

FitDay.com
China has recently launched its very own X-ray space telescope into an orbit of 342 miles above the Earth.

Dubbed as Insight, the 2.5-tonne Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope (HXMT) was sent into space using a Long March-4B rocket that was launched from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China's Gobi Desert.

"Our telescope may discover new phenomena or even new celestial bodies," said Zhang Shuangnan, the lead scientist for Insight X-ray space telescope, in a report from Xinhua Net. "We are looking forward to new findings that nobody can predict."

Insight boasts a trio of detectors that gives the satellite larger detection area, broader energy range and wider field of view than any other X-ray space satellite used by other countries. HXMT's detectors include a high-energy x-ray telescope (HE), medium-energy x-ray telescope (ME) and low-energy x-ray telescope (LE). The satellite's HE has a detection area of more than 5,000 square centimeters and can be adjusted to observe gamma-ray burst.

The main missions of Insight are to provide more information regarding the evolution of black holes and observe strong magnetic fields and pulsars' interior. The x-ray space satellite could also help further help understand how pulsars can be used for spacecraft navigation and search for gamma-ray bursts that correspond to gravitational waves.

The launch of Insight is just the first to a series of probes to be sent to space by China. As part of the country's effort to further develop its space science, China is planning to launch four more probes into space before 2021.

According to a report from Space Daily, the China-Italy Electromagnetic Monitoring Experiment Satellite is expected to launch by August of this year. This will be followed by the launch of the China-France Oceanography Satellite in 2018. In 2020, China plans to send its first ever Mars probe. On the other hand, a China-France astronomical satellite is slated to launch in 2021.
San Franciscos Conservatory of Flowers is celebrating the blooming of their most morbid inhabitant: the Corpse Flower. The plant, also known as Terra the Titan, earned its name from the aroma it omits once flowered. NPR described the stench as a cocktail of fish, unwashed feet and rotting cabbage.

The unique scent that Terra the Titan exudes is produced in order to attract insects, said NPR. The perfume of death appeals to a diverse array of insects. This guarantees the plants survival, allowing for maximum pollination.

While the flower has been a resident at this San Francisco greenhouse for three years, it is expected that the plant will draw great crowds. KQED reported that 16,000 visitors swept through the conservatory just to experience a Corpse Flower first hand during its four-day bloom in 2005.

The plant first reached the conservatory after San Francisco native Sidney Price relinquished his ownership. According to KQED, Price fell in love with the plant after purchasing two immature Corpse Flowers. They quickly sprouted though and the sheer vastness of the plant forced him to donate them. Price also admitted to the news organization that he feared that, if the Corpse Flowers bloomed, neighbors would believe Price was harboring a corpse.

Along with great odor, also comes great beauty. The Conservatory of Flowers explained that the Corpse Flower spends most of its time disguised as a tree. The plant rotates between leaf cycles, hiding a potato-like seed. It usually takes about 10 years for the flower to bloom.

Once mature though, the flowers visual allure leave guests mesmerized. The Corpse Flower will reach heights upwards of 20 feet. Here, it will proudly display its plum interior. This is usually disguised by the flowers absinthe-colored shell, only exposed for a short window of time.

The Corpse Flower has been estimated to be in bloom for two days. Because of this, the conservatory has extended its hours, staying open until 9 p.m. every night until June 19.

Find more information on the Corpse Flower at the Conservatorys website.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) condemned US security services on Sunday for seizing a diplomatic package from its delegation at JFK airport in New York on Friday.

The spokesman for the DPRK Foreign Ministry said its delegation was "literally mugged at the John F. Kennedy International Airport by the US authorities" when it was about to board a flight home after attending a conference at the UN headquarters on the rights of persons with disabilities.

A group of more than 20 people, including those who claimed to be from the US Department of Homeland Security and police officers, "forcibly took away a diplomatic package from the delegation," the Korean Central News Agency quoted the spokesman as saying.

The spokesman also branded the action as "a planned and organized provocation" and "an intolerable act of infringement upon the sovereignty of the DPRK," warning that the United States should "be fully aware of the grave consequences to follow."
Rhode Island's Teacher of the Year is drawing attention for his display of LGBT pride in a photo-op with President Donald Trump.

The photo from Nikos Giannopoulos' visit to the Oval Office in April shows the teacher wearing a rainbow pin on his suit jacket and he is casually waving a lacey black fan alongside Trump, who is smiling and seated at his desk, and a standing first lady.

Giannopoulos posted the photo to his Facebook page on Thursday. By Friday afternoon it had been shared thousands of times on social media.

His caption for the photo included three rainbow emojis and said "Rhode Island Teacher of the Year 2017 meets the 45th President of the United States. That's all."

In a previous post, Giannopoulos said he wore the pin "to represent my gratitude for the LGBTQ community" and brought the fan "to celebrate the joy and freedom of gender nonconformity."

"Taking pride in queer identity means rejecting the shame imposed upon us by a harsh society," he wrote. "It means opening yourself up to a lifetime of criticism and misunderstanding, but knowing that it's worth it to be able to live authentically."

Giannopoulos is a special-education teacher at the Beacon Charter High School for the Arts in Woonsocket, according to the Rhode Island Department of Education.

Trump met with Teacher of the Year winners on April 26 at their traditional White House visit.
The mother of a 2-year-old central Indiana girl who died after being bitten by a tick during a camping trip says lab tests confirmed she was infected with Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Kenley Ratliff of Plainfield died June 4 at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. Her mother, Kayla Conn, says lab tests showed her daughter tested positive for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a tick-borne bacterial infection that can be deadly if not promptly treated.

Conn tells WTHR-TV she'd never heard of the illness. She's urging others to be aware of the dangers of tick-borne diseases.

Kenley fell ill after returning from a camping trip during which a tick bit her. A doctor says she was in the advanced stages of the illness within days of arriving at Riley Hospital.
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski reportedly racked up a $102,000 bar tab while partying at a Flo Rida concert at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut over the weekend.

TMZ published a photo of what it said was Gronkowski's receipt, showing that he and his 20-person posse went through: 160 bottles of champagne, 16 bottles of Grey Goose, 45 orders of Maker's Mark, 24 shots of Jim Beam Fire and three bottles of Don Julio 1942 at the Shrine nightclub.

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It is unclear who footed the bill, but its authenticity was confirmed, Shrine representatives told TMZ.

Gronkowski is reportedly a friend of Flo Rida, who was performing at the club. He can be seen in a Facebook video posted by Shrine Foxwoods dancing around shirtless, posing with Flo Rida.

The Patriots star missed last year's Super Bowl run due to a back injury, but declared himself fully healthy at the team's recent minicamp.
New London police are investigating after a man was found dead in a portable bathroom at McDonald Park Saturday morning.

Police said they were called to the park at Connecticut Avenue and McDonald Street around 8:30 a.m. for a report of a possible deceased person inside a Porta John. When they arrived they found a male victim, estimated to be in his late 20s or early 30s, dead inside.

The victim has not been positively identified at this time, police said. There were no obvious signs of trauma, and an autopsy is scheduled to determine the cause of death.

Anyone with information on this is asked to contact the New London Police Department at 860-447-1481. Tips can also be submitted anonymously by texting NLPDTip and the information to 847411.
A sailor who grew up in Connecticut is among the dead after a U.S. Navy destroyer collided with a container ship off the coast of Japan.

Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, was one of seven sailors who died onboard the USS Fitzgerald when it collided with another ship on Friday. Huynh went by the name Tan, according to his sister, Lan Huynh.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation.

Huynh's family moved to Connecticut when he was in eighth grade, Lan Huynh told NBC Connecticut Sunday night.

Both siblings went to Plainville High School for a time, but graduated from Watertown High, Lan Huynh said.

Tan Huynh also attended Naugatuck Valley Community College before joining the Navy in 2014.

The family moved to Oklahoma after Huynh enlisted, and that might have led to a delay in notifying them, according to Lan Huynh.

"We got a phone call from the Navy personnel in Connecticut. He was driving and he couldn't find us because he didn't know we had moved to Oklahoma," Lan Huynh said.

She said the family is coping as best they can.

"He was a really quiet person. He was also very nice, very selfless. He helped us, the family with a lot," she said. "He had the brightest smile."

Gov. Dannel Malloy directed U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to fly at half-staff in honor of Sonar Technician Huynh.

Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy have called for an investigation into the crash.
Floridas governor Rick Scott visited Connecticut Monday, hoping to recruit Connecticut businesses to move to the Sunshine State.

Scott arrived for meeting with Transact Technologies, which manufactures printers for banks and casinos, among others.

The governor said he campaigned on the promise to create jobs and he's accomplished that, whereas Connecticut is losing jobs.

Whether its companies that are moving or individuals that are moving. More people have moved to Florida from Connecticut than any state theyve moved to. Our taxes are lower, our regulations less, and I just call on companies every day  I go around the country and I go around the world and call on companies to come to Florida.

Scott explained that businesses should look at the benefits, like lower taxes, and also pointed to statistics that support a healthy workforce in Florida.

We have 255,000 job openings . Were down to  out of 21 million people  bigger than New York - were down to 60,000 on unemployment and 71,000 people on welfare, because weve focused on jobs, Scott said.

Scott gave a glowing endorsement of tolls, saying they're a great way to guarantee funding for a road. He also pointed out that he has not raised taxes, and pointed out that there are things Connecticut can do to improve its financial standing.

Governor Dannel Malloy countered by reminding residents that Scott hasn't won them all. Recently Florida pushed for Sikorsky to move their headquarters to their state, but Lockheed Martin, Sikorsky's parent company, made a deal to keep the company in Connecticut through at least 2032.

Scott also tried to convince company executives at Stanley Black & Decker to meet with him on this trip, but they declined.

Stanley Black & Decker has been headquartered in New Britain for nearly 175 years.

CFO Donald Allan said the company occasionally receives a phone call from a governor from another state who will want to come visit them.

While the company, which employs 1,600 people in Connecticut and 54,000 globally, said theyre not going anywhere, some Connecticut residents arent surprised by Scotts visit.

I think they're trying to do the right thing for their state, however we want to make sure we do the right thing for the state of CT, Allan said in a previous interview.

"We're very vulnerable because we have high taxes and a government right now that's really not inspiring innovation, said Gerry Goldberg, of West Hartford.

It remains to be seen what will come of Scott's visit at Transact Technologies. He last visited the state in 2015.
A woman and her two grandchildren children are unharmed after the car they were riding in was carjacked by a robbery suspect in Southington Sunday, but the suspect remains at large.

Police said the incident started around 1:15 p.m. when they were called to the Peoples Bank inside Stop & Shop on North Main Street for a reported robbery.

The suspects took off in a red minivan. An officer spotted the vehicle and tried to stop it, but the suspects kept driving, police said.

According to police, the suspect vehicle suffered a flat tire, at which point the suspects pulled over at the Shell gas station at 212 Main St. One suspect, identified as Norman Renaldi, 44, of Meriden, was captured, but a second suspect got into a Jeep with a woman and her two young grandchildren, age 3 and 6, in it and took off.

An arrest warrant has been obtained for the second suspect who has been identified as Lamar McCarthy.



Police said Renaldi had a knife, but did not use it.

The clerk that was working at the gas station told NBC Connecticut that he saw a man get out of a van and jump into a Jeep while the driver was pumping gas.

The suspect left the woman and children at a commuter lot by exit 26 off Interstate 84. They were not injured and were reunited with the driver, police said.

Police were able to recover the money stolen during the robbery - which totaled $12,669.

Renaldi was charged with first-degree robbery, second-degree larceny, criminal attempt to commit kidnapping, criminal attempt to commit robbery involving an occupied motor vehicle, engaging in pursuit, interfering with an officer, and illegal possession of narcotics. He was held on a $500,000 bond and was due in court Monday.

Police are still looking for McCarthy. The stolen car is a white Jeep Cherokee bearing CT registration AJ13246.
Victims of a fatal bank robbery in eastern Oklahoma are suing over the shooter's improper prison release.

The lawsuit was filed Thursday on behalf of Randy Peterson, who was president of the Bank of Eufaula when fatally shot in the January 2016 robbery. Other plaintiffs include an employee who survived.

The shooter, Cedric Norris, had twice been released from Texas prisons despite having a 60-year sentence to serve in Oklahoma for robbery convictions in Tulsa and Creek counties. Police fatally shot Norris after the bank robbery.

The lawsuit accuses the counties and the Corrections Department of failing to ensure Norris carried out his prison sentences.

Creek County prosecutors have said miscommunication between Texas and Oklahoma resulted in Norris' release.

Department spokesman Mark Myers declined comment Friday, citing the pending litigation.
North Korea is claiming that U.S. officials forcibly seized a diplomatic package from one of their delegations at John F. Kennedy Airport.

The official Korean Central News Agency said diplomats were returning from a U.N. conference on rights of persons with disabilities on Friday when the package was taken, calling it an "illegal and heinous act of provocation."

A U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesman told News 4 New York that the three individuals weren't accredited members of North Korea's U.N. Mission and had no diplomatic immunity.

The agency's officers seized multiple media items and packages from them.

"The reported aggression was initiated by the North Koreans. The individuals were released without further incident but subsequently refused to board their departing flight without the items that had been seized," said David Lapan, press secretary.

The incident comes days after American college student Otto Warmbier was returned to the U.S. in a coma after being imprisoned in North Korea.
At least two people are dead after gunmen stormed a Western-friendly Mali resort located just outside the nations capital Bamako on Sunday evening, authorities said.

One was identified as French-Gabonese, and the other's nationality had not been confirmed, NBC News reported.

Gunfire could be heard and smoke could be seen rising from Le Campement Kangaba in Dougourakoro, a luxury resort popular with Western tourists on the weekends, according to Diakate Benson, a spokesman for the Malian President of the National Assembly.

"Security forces are in place. Campement Kangaba is blocked off and an operation is under way," Security Ministry spokesman Baba Cisse told Reuters. "The situation is under control."
Two people were killed early Monday morning in a wrong-way crash on an Orange County freeway.

A Chevy Suburban sport utility vehicle and sedan collided head-on on the 5 Freeway in Fullerton. One of the vehicles caught fire. The driver of the Honda sedan was headed northbound in southbound lanes, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred at about 3:30 a.m. in the southbound lanes, which were closed for the investigation early Monday.

California Highway Patrol Officer Duane Graham said the crash happened just seconds are the first reports of a wrong-way driver traveling at high speed on the freeway.
An endangered Florida panther was struck and killed by a car near Immokalee - the 11th fatal collision this year out of 15 total panther deaths.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the male panther's remains were found Friday east of Immokalee in Hendry County. Officials said the panther was about 3 years old.

Biologists will study the panther's remains.

Florida panthers once roamed the entire southeastern United States, but now their habitat mostly is confined to southwest Florida. Only about 230 Florida panthers remain in the wild.
Cuba's foreign minister has rejected President Donald Trump's new policy toward the island, saying "we will never negotiate under pressure or under threat" and refusing to return U.S. fugitives who have received asylum in Cuba.

In a hard-edged response to the policy announced Friday, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said from Vienna Monday that Trump's restrictions on transactions with the Cuban military would not achieve their objective of weakening the government. He said they would instead create unity behind the communist leadership.

He described fugitives such as Joanne Chesimard, a black militant convicted of the murder of a New Jersey state trooper, as political refugees who had received asylum from the Cuban government and would not be returned because the U.S. has no "legal or moral basis" to demand their return.

Trump declared Friday he was restoring some travel and economic restrictions on Cuba that were lifted as part of the Obama administration's historic easing. He challenged the communist government of Raul Castro to negotiate a better deal for Cubans and Cuban-Americans.

Announcing the rollback of President Barack Obama's diplomatic opening during a speech in Miami, Trump said Cuba had secured far too many concessions from the U.S. in the "one-sided" deal but "now those days are over." He said penalties on Cuba would remain in place until its government releases political prisoners, stops abusing dissidents and respects freedom of expression.

"America has rejected the Cuban people's oppressors," Trump said in a crowded, sweltering auditorium. "They are rejected officially today  rejected."

Though Trump's announcement stops short of a full reversal of the Cuba rapprochement, it targets the travel and economic engagement between the countries that has blossomed in the short time since relations were restored. The goal is to halt the flow of U.S. cash to the country's military and security services in a bid to increase pressure on Cuba's government.

Embassies in Havana and Washington will remain open. U.S. airlines and cruise ships will still be allowed to serve the island 90 miles south of Florida. The "wet foot, dry foot" policy, which once let most Cuban migrants stay if they made it to U.S. soil but was terminated under Obama, will remain terminated. Remittances to Cuba won't be cut off.

But individual "people-to-people" trips by Americans to Cuba, allowed by Obama for the first time in decades, will again be prohibited. And the U.S. government will police other such trips to ensure there's a tour group representative along making sure travelers are pursuing a "full-time schedule of educational exchange activities."

Trump described his move as an effort to ramp up pressure to create a "free Cuba" after more than half a century of communism.
A Florida Highway Patrol officer was killed while on duty on Saturday night.

According to officials, one car was involved in a crash and Sgt. William Bishop was responding to the incident in Alachua County.

Thats when two cars that were travelling southbound crashed into each other, hitting Bishop while he was outside of his patrol car.

Bishop was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Governor Rick Scott released a statement after finding out the news, saying, We are heartbroken to learn of the death of 30-year veteran FHP Trooper Sergeant William Trampas Bishop while on duty in Alachua County. Ann and I are praying for Sergeant Bishops family and loved ones during this very difficult time. Our thoughts are also with the entire Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida Highway Patrol family as they grieve the loss of Sergeant Bishop. Every day, Floridas law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and serve Florida families. This terrible loss is a somber reminder of the work our brave law enforcement officers do to keep us safe.

Its unclear if anyone will be facing charges.
Tropical Storm Bret continues to churn along the northern part of South America, while a second system closer to the United States could become a named storm at some point Tuesday.

Bret has maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and is moving west-northwest at 21 mph about 75 miles east-southeast of Isla de Margarita, Venezuela, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Little change in strength was expected over the next couple days.

[NATL] The 5 Deadliest Hurricanes to Hit the US Since 1900

A tropical storm warning remains in effect for the northern coast of Venezuela from Pedernales to Cumana including Isla de Margarita. A tropical storm watch was in effect for Bonaire, Curacao and Aruba.

Footage from Trinidad showed damage caused by the system including toppled trees and tossed-by-the-wind beach furniture.

Bret wasn't expected to affect Florida.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for a section of Louisiana's coast as a weather system approaches from the Gulf of Mexico.

The warning is in effect from Cameron, Louisiana, to Intracoastal City.

Meanwhile, a tropical storm warning has been issued for a section of Louisiana's coast as a weather system approaches from the Gulf of Mexico. The warning is in effect from Cameron, Louisiana, to Intracoastal City.

The system's maximum sustained winds early Tuesday are near 40 mph. The U.S. National Hurricane Center says some slight strengthening is possible before the system reaches the coast, either late Wednesday or Wednesday night.

As of 5 a.m. Tuesday, the system is centered about 305 miles south-southwest of the mouth of the Mississippi River and is moving northwest near 8 mph.



NBC 6s Angie Lassman has the numbers from the agency, which predict a slightly higher than normal number of storms this hurricane season.

South Florida won't be directly affected by the system.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott released a statement regarding the system churning in the Gulf, saying in part:

With severe weather including heavy rain and flooding expected across the Florida Panhandle this week, families in Northwest Florida should remain alert to local news and weather updates and make sure they have a plan. I have been monitoring the storm system in the Gulf of Mexico and will continue to receive briefings on possible impacts to our state."



Download the NBC6 News & Weather app to stay up to date on any tropical developments.
Muslims prayed with heavy hearts at a mosque in Pembroke Pines Monday, hours after an attack near a London mosque left one person dead.

Shaikh Shafayat Mohamed, leader of the Darul Uloom Institute, said his members always have a fear in the back of their minds that the kind of hate crime that played out in London could happen in South Florida. Witnesses said during the London attack the suspect screamed that he wanted to kill Muslims.

"I'm very vigilant and I'm careful where I go, when I go and always have people around, you have to do what you have to do," he said. "Now you have the backlash, so this has happened and with this present situation in London yesterday, that adds fuel to the fire."

The Shaikh says that kind of violence and threats is why many mosques have limited hours, as opposed to being open 24 hours a day. He also said they have more security that ever before.

"Especially with London, they have been beefing up security with more surveillance cameras, people in the parking lot, some have undercover cops being paid to keep an eye on Islamic institutions," Mohamed said. "We used to be 24 hours open once upon a time, but with all these things happening we have to as they say, tie your camel and do whatever is necessary for security."

The mosque is expecting thousands of people Wednesday to celebrate the end of Ramadan, the holiest month of the year for Muslims.

Mohamed said he will use the attack in London to remind members how to respond to such violence.

"ISIS and Al-Qaeda and these radicals will continue to do their harm, they have their own agenda, you will always have this backlash so we need to be more educated, we have to not have hate against them, be more kind and loving with other people, reply hate with love," he said.


A landlord of a five-story Upper West Side apartment building told residents that the building's interior staircase would be torn down and they would have to use the fire escape to reach their homes.

The fire escape is 10 feet off the ground.

Resident Cynthia Gowan said: "I'm 68. I'm not going down the fire escape unless there's a fire."

She said some apartments in the back of the building don't even have access to the fire escape.

Half of the tenants live in rent-stabilized apartments and the landlords are under investigation by the state attorney general for repeated allegations of harassment, the Daily News reported.

The landlord, Pine Management, told NBC 4 New York that the company would ensure the safety of its tenants.

"From the commencement of this project we received all necessary municipal permits and approvals and will continue to abide by all procedures to ensure the safety of our tenants," Jason Rohlman, vice president, said in a statement.

The Department of Buildings received a complaint last week that tenants at 167 West 83rd Street were being prevented from using the interior stairs -- the only staircase in the walk-up building -- during construction, a spokesman for the department confirmed.

The Buildings Department issued a full stop work order the same day, the spokesman said.

The landlords had already torn down the stairway from the fifth floor to the roof, the department said, and the city issued another full stop work order the next day regarding that and other issues.

DOB responded immediately to this complaint and prevented the building owner from doing any work that could have prevented tenants from getting in or out of their apartments," the department said in a statement.

"The owners contractor had removed stairs leading from the top floor to the roof, and DOB ensured that these stairs were replaced the same day," the statement said. "The case has been referred to the office of the Buildings Marshal.
Yu Ya'nan, a student majoring in piano performance at Changchun University's Special Education School, studies English at a library on Friday. Yu was one of the first five blind students to take the College English Test. ZHANG NAN/XINHUA

China's education authority pledged to keep improving the accessibility for students with disabilities to taking exams after five visually impaired students took the national college English test for the first time on Saturday.

Exam administration bodies nationwide will continue optimizing the procedures and providing logistical and academic assistance to exam takers who have disabilities to serve their specific needs in taking various national exams, the National Education Examination Authority said on Sunday.

The authority, which is affiliated with the Ministry of Education, stressed that accessibility is the key in a written response to an interview on thepaper.cn after a group of students took the English test in Jilin province.

Five blind students from Changchun University's School of Special Education joined their peers on Saturday to take the College English Test, better known as CET, with their test papers printed in Braille in a separate room away from other students in Changchun, capital of Jilin province.

The CET includes listening, reading and writing. Many Chinese universities will not allow a student to graduate without obtaining a CET 4 or 6 certificate.

This was the first time Braille test papers were used at the exam. The blind students were given 195 minutes for the test, 65 minutes longer than usual to allow more time to read and write in Braille.

In a classroom next door, three visually impaired students were given large-font test papers and 169 minutes to answer with the help of magnifying lenses and reading lamps.

All the visually impaired students were accommodated in a well-lit classroom on the first floor and provided with power cords, bottled water and snacks, Li Meng, an exam official at Changchun University, told Xinhua on Saturday.

Two teachers, one of whom knew Braille, stood by in case the students needed help, he said.

"The measures were made to ensure that visually disabled people could have convenient and equal access to the exams," the authority said.

Since early last year, the administration and the China Disabled Persons' Federation have been working closely to finalize the regulation and detailed operational procedures for blind and visually disabled students to take the exam.

Successful experiences of this test as a pilot will be introduced to more regional examining authorities to benefit more students, said the authority.

The new policy has helped some disabled students like Luo Qian, a senior majoring in acupuncture and massage at the university, realize their dreams.

Access to the CET marks the second major landmark for blind and visually impaired students after they were officially allowed to take the gaokao, the national college entrance exam, in 2014. In April of that year, the Ministry Education issued a regulation in April that year requiring examining bodies to provide assistance and tools to enable such students to take the test.

Last year, the regulation was extended to cover students with a variety of disabilities to allow them to enter gaokao test halls ahead of time with specialized staff, such as sign language interpreters, to offer help.

Xinhua contributed to this story.
The MTA is investigating after a 17-year-old high school student was hit and killed by a train in Connecticut.

A MTA spokesman says the teen, a student at Greenwich High School, was hit at Cos Cob station in Greenwich around 12 a.m. Sunday. The train was heading northbound from Grand Central Station.

The spokesman did not say why the teen was on the tracks.

Police have not released information about his identity other than that he was a student at Greenwich High School.

Counselors will be on hand at the school throughout the day and after school Monday.
One person was killed while another was injured after an argument inside a Center City nightclub led to a shooting outside.

Police say the ordeal began around 2:30 a.m. Sunday when two men began arguing over a woman inside Reserve Lounge, a club on the 700 block of Arch Street. The argument continued outside of the club leading to an unidentified gunman firing at least 20 shots, according to investigators.

A 29-year-old man was shot once in the torso and once in the face. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:50 a.m. A 25-year-old man later showed up at Wilmington Hospital in Delaware suffering from a gunshot wound to the body. He is currently in stable condition.

No arrests have been made and police have not released a description of any suspects.




A Delaware County Wawa was hit with attempted armed robberies on consecutive nights by a similarly described perpetrator.

The male subject entered the Wawa just before 10 pm on June 17 and made a purchase at the register. He then proceeded to display a handgun and demand money from the register. However, according to police reports, he did not obtain anything before fleeing on foot.

In the evening the next day, the man appeared in the same clothing with a different hat and approached the register to make a purchase once again. This time, after revealing his handgun and demanding money, he was able to flee the scene on foot with an undisclosed amount of money.

Pennsylvania State Police are describing the man on both instances as a 5-foot, 8-inch to 6-foot tall male wearing all black clothing. The Stoneybank Wawa in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania was able to capture surveillance images of the suspect on both occasions.

While it is not confirmed to be the same person, the pictures taken from store cameras lead police to believe that this is not a coincidence.

Anyone with information regarding either attempt is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit at 484-840-1000.
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Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
Washingtonians are celebrating Juneteenth on Monday, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

The holiday's name is a mashup of "June" and "nineteenth," marking the anniversary of the day when slaves in Texas learned they were free, according to Juneteenth.com. The announcement reached them more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, when Major Gen. Gordon Granger came to Galveston to enforce the president's directive.

"The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free," the general's order read.

In 2003, D.C. passed legislation that made Juneteenth a District holiday, according to the National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign.

In honor of Juneteenth, the National Museum of African American History and Culture's Sweet Home Cafe is serving up a special menu all this week, including Texas-style hickory smoked barbecue. For a full menu, go here.

A free Juneteenth run in D.C. is set for Wednesday, kicking off 927 Ohio Drive SW on Hains Point. The 1500-meter kicks off at 12 p.m., with the 3000-meter and 5000-meter beginning at 12:15 p.m.

Ronald Myers Sr., chair of the National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign, will be there. He's pushing to make Juneteenth a national American holiday, as it is currently an official holiday in only 41 states and Washington, D.C.
Authorities say a pastor from Grand Junction, Colorado, who has been reported missing in New Mexico was searching for a famous hidden treasure, the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel reports.

The newspaper says that New Mexico State Police Lt. Elizabeth Armijo confirmed family members told authorities that Paris Wallace had come to the Espanola area to search for a chest of gold rumored to be hidden in the mountains.

The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel says the rough terrain around Espanola is the southernmost territory targeted by adventurous individuals seeking the treasure of Forrest Fenn.

Fenn, an eccentric author, announced that he hid a chest full of gold and jewels somewhere in the Rocky Mountains worth at least $1 million in 2010. Those who seek the alleged treasure say the clues are hidden in his writings.

The newspaper reports that no one has been in contact with Wallace, the lead pastor of Connection Church, since Tuesday. His wife reported him missing to authorities after he missed a meeting with someone on Wednesday.
Chanting that neither rain nor wind could stop their movement, activists braved downpours in St. Albans, Vermont Monday, demanding the release of detained migrant farmworkers Esau Peche and Yesenia Hernandez.

Advocates for undocumented farmworkers with the group Migrant Justice said the pair was arrested Saturday by a U.S. Border Patrol agent, following a traffic stop.

They had taken part earlier in the day in a 13-mile march for migrant farmworkers rights, in which they called on the ice cream giant Ben & Jerrys to be a leader in expecting good working conditions in its supply chain.

"Many workers were aware this could happen," Abel Luna of Migrant Justice said. "They knew they had to stand up for their rights. They knew that if they didnt, nobody else was going to do it. Its up to the farm workers to make their voice heard."

Even farmhands who are in the country without government permission have often been called critical to Vermonts dairy industry. Its estimated the state is home to 1,200-1,500 undocumented farm workers, many of whom are from Mexico.

In the following statement, U.S. Border Patrol called the traffic stop "routine:"

"During the course of normal patrol duties on June 17, a U.S. Border Patrol agent encountered two individuals near the international border in East Franklin, Vt., the statement read. As part of routine operations, the agent stopped the vehicle and during questioning determined the occupants may be illegally present in the U.S. The two occupants were taken to the Border Patrol station for further investigation where they were arrested for immigration violations. Both occupants were turned over to ICE ERO.

A spokesperson for ICE, or Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, did not respond to a request for comment before necns news deadline.

On NECNs Facebook page, several users agreed with the Feds actions.

One reader of this story remarked, We should be going after illegals any way we can.

Another wrote, If they are illegals...then they should not be here...period!"

No human being is illegal, countered Enrique Balcazar of Migrant Justice, through an interpreter. Migration is caused by many factorsby poverty, by instability, even by natural disasters.

Migrant Justice activists entered a Homeland Security office in St. Albans demanding their friends release, but were told no one could speak with them without an appointment.

Undeterred, the group promised to keep speaking up for the detainees and the rights of all migrant farmworkers, saying the often invisible population is vital to the nations food supply.

On Saturday, Ben & Jerrys said it shares the goal of good working conditions for farm workers, and believes the Vermont dairy farmers who supply the ice cream brand do, too.

However, the company said working out the details of formal agreements on human rights expectations on farms it does not own has been complicated to hash out.

We really see a future for this and we really believe that we can get this done, Ben & Jerrys CEO Jostein Solheim told necn affiliate NBC 5 News Saturday, in regards to the ongoing discussions about human rights expectations on dairy suppliers.
Dozens of Great Danes found living in squalor inside a New Hampshire mansion are being held as evidence in an extensive animal cruelty case.

If you looked at the outside of this home youd have no idea what was happening behind closed doors, said Lindsay Hamrick, the New Hampshire State Director of the Humane Society of the United States.

Inside the 15,000 square-foot Wolfeboro mansion, authorities found 75 Great Danes, from puppies to adults, living in deplorable conditions. They found nine more puppies at a nearby property.

When we walked in, the smell of ammonia was so overwhelming and there was waste and feces all over the house, on the walls, it was just really heartbreaking, Hamrick said.

Because of the number and especially the size of these animals, the Humane Society of the United States was called in to assist local authorities in Fridays 14 hour rescue.

Some of these dogs were looking me in the eye, these are enormous dogs, Hamrick explained. We actually had to call in two additional horse trailers, on top of two tractor trailers, and a horse trailer we had brought, just to ensure their transport was humane as possible.

Wolfeboro Police charged Christina Fay, 60, with two counts of misdemeanor animal neglect. Officials said she was selling the Great Danes online for $2,500.

By all accounts on her website these animals were well cared for and thats not what was happening in reality, Hamrick said.

The dogs are now being taken care of at an emergency shelter and will eventually be available for adoption once the case is closed.

They were incredible, sweet dogs who were just overwhelmed by what was happening, Hamrick said. Its just such a wonderful feeling to know theyre safe now.

The investigation is ongoing and authorities said Fay will likely face additional charges.
One person was killed in an overnight house fire in New Hampshire, according to the state's Fire Marshal.

Authorities say Moultonborough firefighters responded around 3:45 a.m. Monday to a house fire at 96 Black's Landing Rd. that was reported by a neighbor.

By the time fire crews arrived on the scene, the home was completely engulfed by the flames.

The state Fire Marshal's Office responded to the scene as well, and one person was found dead inside the heavily fire-damaged home.

An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday.

Fire officials say the home is a complete loss, and their investigation is ongoing.
The names of the two officers involved in a fatal police-involved shooting at a New Hampshire State Liquor Store in Hampton last week have been released.

According to state Attorney General Gordon J. MacDonald and New Hampshire State Police, the state troopers who discharged their weapons on June 13 were Sergeant Keith Walker and Trooper Erik Willett.

Walker has been part of the New Hampshire State Police for 19 years while Willett has been a member for five years. Both troopers are assigned to Troop A State Police Barracks in Epping and are on paid administrative leave pending the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.

The troopers had responded to the liquor store on Interstate 95 southbound after Portsmouth police had issued a "be on the lookout" for Barry Jones, 36, of Portsmouth.

Police said Jones was intoxicated and took his neighbors silver Ford Ranger pick-up truck. Authorities also said Jones was armed with a handgun and had pointed a weapon at an individual and allegedly wanted that person to drive with him to Lawrence, Massachusetts, to get some drugs.

After Jones crashed the truck, he continued onto I-95 and ended up at the liquor store, where he was spotted by the troopers. It was there that there was some kind of encounter between him and the troopers and a discharge of weapons occurred.

Jones was shot and taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, where he later died.

The exact circumstances surrounding the incident remains under investigation.
A Massachusetts man was hospitalized Monday after being struck by a stray bullet at a home in New Bedford.

Police said the shooting occurred at 50 Tallman St. at 2:52 p.m.

The 60-year-old victim who was shot was taken to Rhode Island Hospital, where he is listed in serious condition.

Police said that minutes before the man was struck, it appeared that there was an exchange of gunfire between two groups.

No further information is available but authorities are asking anyone with information to contact New Bedford police at 508-992-7463 or by email at tip@newbedfordpd.com.
Parking meters are malfunctioning in York, Maine, giving some tourists free parking, but causing the town to lose out on tens of thousands of dollars in parking revenue.

Parking meters along Long Sands Beach were upgraded this year to let people use credit cards for payment. But according to Town Manager Steve Burns, the software for the new machines wasnt working with Yorks new cell phone tower.

He said Hectronic, the company that manufactures the meters, is working on a fix  and he hopes it happens soon.

The 4th of July is coming, said Burns.

He estimates the town has already lost tens of thousands of dollars in parking revenue. Typically, York brings in about a half a million dollars from the meters each year.

If we dont collect it as parking revenues, then it comes on to the property tax roll, said Burns. We would have to charge property owners this.

While Burns thought the issue was resolved, several tourists were still having issues with the meters Monday.

Katie Rago tried to pay for her parking spot three times, and kept getting an error on the screen.

It says payment session interrupted, said Rago.

York Police are not ticketing cars until the machines are fixed. Rago was happy to have a day of free parking.

I gave it my honest effort, she laughed.

But another family had a more frustrating time. When Lionel Tarbell put his credit card into the machine, he couldnt get it out.

Its stuck, he said. This isnt even cool.

A phone call to York Police, Public Works, and a pair of pliers later  he got his card back, but decided he wanted to leave the beach.

They paid over 200 thousand dollars for these [machines]... Its 200 grand of crap, he said.


Kings Lynn Christian seeks 300 revival praying people Kings Lynn Christian seeks 300 revival praying people

George Kanayo from The Kings Glory Church in Kings Lynn has launched Revival 300 Kings Lynn to encourage 300 people, a Biblically symbolic number, to pray for revival in the town. .

revival300kl@gmail.com

@300KingsLynn

is a movement that is seeking to encourage 300 Christians of all denominations to pray for revival in thetown.who set up the campaign explains: Revival 300 Kings Lynn is a God inspired vision of bringing about a spiritual revival in the United Kingdom. Since He has given us dominion over the earth, He desires for an invitation from a number of God fearing, spirit filled born again Christians to stand in the place of prayer for the outpouring of His power and grace, knowing that He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worked in them.The number 300 refers to Gods encounter with Gideon in Judges 7 where God used only 300 people to deliver the children of Israel from the Midianites so that they could not boast that their own strength had saved them.George said: The number 300 is the seed number from which the revival will start and afterwards their sharing of the testimonies of God's power will continuously add to the number.Our hope is that the revival inwill out flow to every corner of the United Kingdom and beyond; Also for Gods word to get to every home in the United Kingdom and the nation to return to righteousness and God.The members of Revival 300 Kings Lynn currently meet to pray specifically for revivalatat the
Richard Benyon says Conservatives need to think about how they progress after election

NEWBURY MP Richard Benyon has said that the message has been received that the Conservatives must move away from austerity; but he doesnt think another election should be called.

Mr Benyon, who has held the seat since 2005, received 37,399 votes  a 61.5 per cent share and a 0.5 per cent increase on 2015  and saw his 26,368 majority drop to 24,380.

In his victory speech, Mr Benyon thanked his opponents for sticking their heads above the parapet and deciding to stand.

He said: This is an extraordinary result for us here in West Berkshire and when you see whats happening around the country, to pull a popular vote like that is a huge achievement for my wonderful team of supporters.

I just think tonight I hope, with a degree, I hope, comes across with humility, our party have got to do some serious thinking about how we progress from here; and I understand concerns people have in an area like this where we are facing difficulties with our local authority and having enough resources to take things forward; and I want to work with everybody regardless of how they voted or whether they voted at all.

I want to get the best deal for West Berkshire in the uncertain times as we go ahead towards Brexit and toward the future that we face.

Im thrilled with the result.

I commit myself to every single person in West Berkshire to try and make sure that they have the fruits of the benefits of one of the one of the greatest countries and part of that country that we are lucky enough to live in.

Speaking on the night, Mr Benyon said that he was concerned about the exit poll indicating a hung Parliament and he never thought the Conservatives would achieve the ridiculous three-figure majority first predicted.

Speaking to the on Wednesday Mr Benyon said: It seems to be sorting itself out.

That will allow us to govern with the ability to get through the Queens Speech and budget and that means we can get on with issues like Brexit and tackling this security situation and also I hope addressing the concerns that people have raised about the public sector.

Mr Benyon said that although the DUP held differing views from him on social issues, such as gay rights, he had always worked well with them on an individual level.

People concerned about this can be reassured that nothing like that will change, Mr Benyon said.

Its important that the peace process can continue, at least with the confidence and supply arrangement, which will be based around things like infrastructure, accessibility and getting a Brexit deal that doesnt harm the Northern Irish economy.

The Prime Minister called the election to strengthen her hand in the Brexit negotiations, but ended up losing her majority.

When asked how the result would impact Brexit, Mr Benyon said: The truth that dare not speak its name during the election was theres quite a lot of agreement between Labour and the Conservatives on Brexit.

He said he was certain that an arrangement could be reached that would be positive for places like West Berkshire.

Mr Benyon said he was bored with national press reports surrounding the politics of Brexit and what really mattered was what impact it would have on companies and people in his constituency.

The MP, who has fought six elections, said that it was one of the least pleasant that he could remember, with him and his campaigners being abused on social media.

When asked about cuts to public spending and what he meant by his party having to think about how it progressed, Mr Benyon said there was weariness over the impact of austerity.

I have raised this with the Prime Minister since the election in the 1922 Committee, he said. She really clearly said it was message received.

Mr Benyon said that his party would need to tackle the 2 trillion of debt and find a way for Britain to live within its means.

Many of us are now campaigning for improving funding for schools and working for people who work in our public sector.

I think the pay cap has had a huge impact on quality of life on people who work in vital areas of the public sector.

Mr Benyon said that the country was not ready for another election and that he would question the Government on issues that he thought it was not getting right.

Im with Brenda from Bristol, he said. I really dont think theres any appetite across West Berkshire or the country for another election.

Im going to immerse myself in things like the Great Repeal Bill and the environment and other areas of concern that I have.

The combined total votes received by all other candidates in Newbury came to 23,450, meaning Mr Benyon would have a 13,949 majority, even if those votes all went to one opposing candidate.

When asked whether it was time for electoral reform following the result, Mr Benyon said it would only lead to more hung

Parliaments.

He said: PR is not fair. It gives enormous power to smaller parties.

We have a fair system where five people can stand in a village hall and people can ask them questions and the one they think is best gets more votes and becomes an MP.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: Cyber security breaches could pose a serious risk to business affecting financial prospects of the company, stated IT major Wipro. In its filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, the company has said there is a rising incident of cases on cyber security attacks, which also means that the risk quotient also goes up. Such attacks could also lead to financial obligations for its customers it added.

The firms statement comes in the wake of recent global cyber security attacks which struck several large companies, including Indian IT companies. The ransomware WanaCry which

affected millions of systems worldwide raised grave concerns about cybersecurity. Hackers demanded bitcoin payments from companies to retrieve their data.

Wipro too, received attack threats during the incident. In response to a query sent by Express earlier this month on a cyber threat, second in the row, faced by the company, Wipro had then confirmed the same. Wipro confirms that it has received a second threatening email from an unidentified source. Wipro has reinforced security measures at all its office locations... the company had stated. The issue is under investigation by cyber sleuths in Bengaluru.

The company was not alone in receiving such threats. Several IT companies faced a similar situation and put in much effort to plug loopholes.

Wipro has taken cognisance of the risk saying that attempts for unauthorised access, malwares, fraud, misuse/loss/tampering of personal and business data, deliberate or accidental act of its employees or other stakeholders are rising.

While various security controls mechanisms are deployed at different technology layers and re-enforced periodically, it may be difficult always to be successful considering the complexity of the environments, it said. Earlier, in its annual report, Wipro noted, ...any potential cyber event impacting confidentiality, integrity ... could lead to financial, disclosure of data, privacy, security, reputational, customer loss, legal, regulatory and contractual obligations to Wipro and may have direct impact (on) our customers and partners.

BENGALURU: Cyber security breaches could pose a serious risk to business affecting financial prospects of the company, stated IT major Wipro. In its filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, the company has said there is a rising incident of cases on cyber security attacks, which also means that the risk quotient also goes up. Such attacks could also lead to financial obligations for its customers it added. The firms statement comes in the wake of recent global cyber security attacks which struck several large companies, including Indian IT companies. The ransomware WanaCry which affected millions of systems worldwide raised grave concerns about cybersecurity. Hackers demanded bitcoin payments from companies to retrieve their data. Wipro too, received attack threats during the incident. In response to a query sent by Express earlier this month on a cyber threat, second in the row, faced by the company, Wipro had then confirmed the same. Wipro confirms that it has received a second threatening email from an unidentified source. Wipro has reinforced security measures at all its office locations... the company had stated. The issue is under investigation by cyber sleuths in Bengaluru. The company was not alone in receiving such threats. Several IT companies faced a similar situation and put in much effort to plug loopholes. Wipro has taken cognisance of the risk saying that attempts for unauthorised access, malwares, fraud, misuse/loss/tampering of personal and business data, deliberate or accidental act of its employees or other stakeholders are rising. While various security controls mechanisms are deployed at different technology layers and re-enforced periodically, it may be difficult always to be successful considering the complexity of the environments, it said. Earlier, in its annual report, Wipro noted, ...any potential cyber event impacting confidentiality, integrity ... could lead to financial, disclosure of data, privacy, security, reputational, customer loss, legal, regulatory and contractual obligations to Wipro and may have direct impact (on) our customers and partners.
By PTI

LONDON: Tata Group and American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin today signed an "unprecedented" deal to produce, operate and export the combat-proven F-16 fighters in India, boosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan ahead of his first summit with US President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, Lockheed will shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to India without directly affecting American jobs, a campaign pledge of Trump who has vowed to put "America First".

The deal announced during the Paris Airshow between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Lockheed Martin is ideally suited to meet Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs.

According to defence experts, the Indian Air Force needs around 200 medium weight category aircraft and currently does not operate F-16s. The deal is going to be among the largest projects under the Make in India initiative.

In August last year, Lockheed had offered to move its lone production line the F 16-Block 70 from Texas to India, the world's top defence importer. It, however, had made clear the proposal was "conditional" to Indian Air Force choosing the fighters for its fleet.

In February this year, Lockheed had said this unique opportunity strengthens the strategic ties between the US and India. Around the same time, the defence major had also said that it has briefed the Trump administration on the deal which was supported by the previous Obama administration as part of a broader cooperative dialogue with India.

The announcement of the deal comes a week ahead of Modi's first bilateral meeting with Trump after the billionaire tycoon became the president of the United States in January. Modi will be on a two-day visit to the US from June 25.

The agreement was signed by Sukaran Singh, CEO of TASL, and George Standridge, vice president of Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons, and Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, were also present.

The two companies said this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports New Delhi's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in the country under the 'Make in India' initiative.

"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

The company said the "unprecedented" F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world.

"Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 programme," said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

"Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make In India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India," he said.

The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASL's proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter.

With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced.

Lockheed Martin claims the F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered. And TASL, a Tata Group firm, is focused on providing integrated solutions for Aerospace, Defence and Homeland Security.

Last year, India agreed to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from France for around USD 8.9 billion.

LONDON: Tata Group and American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin today signed an "unprecedented" deal to produce, operate and export the combat-proven F-16 fighters in India, boosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan ahead of his first summit with US President Donald Trump. Under the deal, Lockheed will shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to India without directly affecting American jobs, a campaign pledge of Trump who has vowed to put "America First". The deal announced during the Paris Airshow between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Lockheed Martin is ideally suited to meet Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs. According to defence experts, the Indian Air Force needs around 200 medium weight category aircraft and currently does not operate F-16s. The deal is going to be among the largest projects under the Make in India initiative. In August last year, Lockheed had offered to move its lone production line the F 16-Block 70 from Texas to India, the world's top defence importer. It, however, had made clear the proposal was "conditional" to Indian Air Force choosing the fighters for its fleet. In February this year, Lockheed had said this unique opportunity strengthens the strategic ties between the US and India. Around the same time, the defence major had also said that it has briefed the Trump administration on the deal which was supported by the previous Obama administration as part of a broader cooperative dialogue with India. The announcement of the deal comes a week ahead of Modi's first bilateral meeting with Trump after the billionaire tycoon became the president of the United States in January. Modi will be on a two-day visit to the US from June 25. The agreement was signed by Sukaran Singh, CEO of TASL, and George Standridge, vice president of Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons, and Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, were also present. The two companies said this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports New Delhi's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in the country under the 'Make in India' initiative. "This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons. The company said the "unprecedented" F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter. F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world. "Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 programme," said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. "Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make In India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India," he said. The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASL's proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter. With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced. Lockheed Martin claims the F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered. And TASL, a Tata Group firm, is focused on providing integrated solutions for Aerospace, Defence and Homeland Security. Last year, India agreed to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from France for around USD 8.9 billion.
robot courier (People's Daily)

On June 18, students at six Chinese universities received items they had purchased from JD.com from robot couriers.

Still a pilot project, the robots were dispatched to just half a dozen universities, including Renmin University, Tsinghua University and Zhejiang University. At JD.com delivery stations, items were first divided among the robots according to size. The smart robots were then able to plan their routes with the help of an automatic navigation system, which also assists them in avoiding obstacles en route.

They follow preset routes and send messages to the recipients when they are 100 meters away from their destinations. The robots can move as quickly as electric bikes, though they are set to walk at the speed of pedestrians when on campus. They also slow down in advance of speed bumps.

item delivered by robot courier (People's Daily)

University students will be the first group to benefit from the new technology. Considering the openness of college students when it comes to hi-tech products, JD.com will highlight its 1,300 delivery stations at universities as the promotional campaign for robot couriers kicks off.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: Russian oil giant Rosneft, the company which recently took over Essar Oil, will be tapping into the Indian retail fuel market, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Sunday.

Pradhan was addressing reporters after inaugurating City Gas Distribution (CGD) Project. When asked about the size of investment to be made by Rosneft and Essar to tap the fuel retailing market, Pradhan said both companies had invested $13 billion in Indian market in the last fiscal. This was one of the biggest deals in the oil industry in the world, he added.

In the beginning of the second quarter, BP and RIL had announced more than $6 billion investment in India, Pradhan said. The Rosneft-Essar deal is expected to be completed by the June-end 2017. The $12.9 billion deal is the largest acquisition of an Indian firm by a foreign firm. Through this deal, Rosneft will get a 49 per cent stake in Essar, which would help the firm pursue its global expansion plans.

Rosneft is going big on expansion. The company announced on Sunday that it had found its first oil field in the Laptev Sea in the eastern Arctic, Rosneft and its partners plan to invest 480 billion rubles ($8.4 billion) in developing Russias offshore energy industry in the next five years.

Meanwhile, the CGD project would be implemented by GAIL Gas Limited, with an investment of `6,283 crore, Pradhan said. The project would cover 4,395 sq km in urban and rural Bengaluru, broadly covering eight sectors  Nelamangala, Dodaballapur, Devanahalli, Hosakote, Bengaluru East, Bengaluru North, Bengaluru South and Anekal, he said. The project aims to provide environment friendly energy to 106.12 lakh residents of Bengaluru by supplying Piped Natural Gas.

BENGALURU: Russian oil giant Rosneft, the company which recently took over Essar Oil, will be tapping into the Indian retail fuel market, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Sunday. Pradhan was addressing reporters after inaugurating City Gas Distribution (CGD) Project. When asked about the size of investment to be made by Rosneft and Essar to tap the fuel retailing market, Pradhan said both companies had invested $13 billion in Indian market in the last fiscal. This was one of the biggest deals in the oil industry in the world, he added. In the beginning of the second quarter, BP and RIL had announced more than $6 billion investment in India, Pradhan said. The Rosneft-Essar deal is expected to be completed by the June-end 2017. The $12.9 billion deal is the largest acquisition of an Indian firm by a foreign firm. Through this deal, Rosneft will get a 49 per cent stake in Essar, which would help the firm pursue its global expansion plans. Rosneft is going big on expansion. The company announced on Sunday that it had found its first oil field in the Laptev Sea in the eastern Arctic, Rosneft and its partners plan to invest 480 billion rubles ($8.4 billion) in developing Russias offshore energy industry in the next five years. Meanwhile, the CGD project would be implemented by GAIL Gas Limited, with an investment of `6,283 crore, Pradhan said. The project would cover 4,395 sq km in urban and rural Bengaluru, broadly covering eight sectors  Nelamangala, Dodaballapur, Devanahalli, Hosakote, Bengaluru East, Bengaluru North, Bengaluru South and Anekal, he said. The project aims to provide environment friendly energy to 106.12 lakh residents of Bengaluru by supplying Piped Natural Gas.
Arun Thukral By

Express News Service

Yoga helps harmoniously develop your body, mind and spirit. In fact, Yoga is a way of life. With the declaration by United Nations General Assembly to celebrate June 21 as International Yoga Day, the world is catching attention towards Yoga and its benefits. While most people relate Yoga to asanas, its overwhelming to know the vastness of the Yogic principles, its philosophy and its literature.

Being a certified financial planner and a certified Yoga trainer, I must admit that I find a great connection between Yogic principles and investor psychology. Yogic principles explain in detail about Investor psychology and how it plays an important role in Investment decision making.

Maharishi Patanjali in YogaSutra describes five states of mind, which ranges from severely troubled to a completely mastered mind. Lets understand how it affects our investing behavior:

Kshipta/disturbed This state of mind is disturbed, troubled and negative. This is the least desirable state of mind. The negative mindset can be because of lack of knowledge. In investing too, our decision is affected by the lack of knowledge and sub-optimal investing practices predominantly stem from this. We spend a lot of time to review and buy products online, but when it comes to investing we quickly park our hard earned money based on tips or hearsay. A large number of investors take decisions at the last moment e.g. tax planning. A comprehensive financial planning which includes goals, taxes and contingency should be envisaged with the help of an expert, to avoid impulsive investments.

Mudha/dull

Its a dull and heavy state of mind where we dont want to take efforts to invest our savings in high yield assets. We leave our savings idle, e.g, bank accounts or investments in other asset class which isnt suitable as per risk or goal value. In investing, we see gold and real estate as a safe haven. But gold has only performed well in uncertain times and real estate hasnt given better returns than equity in recent past. Considering home loan interests, the real estate returns when compared to equities will be much lesser. Be active towards equity investments and not consider only the traditional route of investments for optimum returns.

Vikshipta/distracted

Vikshipta mind is occasionally steady and is distracted easily. If you invest for a shorter tenure the chances are more to make losses. If you see markets in the short term it may seem highly volatile, but if you see for longer horizon, it continues to build an upward trajectory. Its advisable to remain invested for longer period and not get distracted by market news and noise, to create wealth.

Ekagra/one-pointed

The Ekagra mind is one-pointed, focused and concentrated. The chances of getting distracted in this state of mind are negligible. It is one of the desirable states of mind. In investing, you should be Ekagra, for instance, focused towards your financial goals. It includes knowing your goals, analysing your financial situation, risk profiling and asset allocation. Periodic monitoring and rebalancing of portfolio is also required for goal achievement.

Niruddah/mastered

The Nirruddah mind is highly mastered and controlled. It is the most desirable state of mind. In context of investments, you master the art of investing. It is easier said than done. To master this art, you should know how to choose stocks that the market has undervalued and they have high growth potential. The selection should be based on fundamentals like promoters background, commitment, vision, strengths of business and financials. Follow the principle of value investing and seek stocks that the market has undervalued. Out of these five states of mind, the last 2 stages are most desirable and one should avoid being in the first three states of mind. Identify your state of mind and apply these basic yogic principles to grow your wealth.

(The author is the MD & CEO of Axis Securities)

Yoga helps harmoniously develop your body, mind and spirit. In fact, Yoga is a way of life. With the declaration by United Nations General Assembly to celebrate June 21 as International Yoga Day, the world is catching attention towards Yoga and its benefits. While most people relate Yoga to asanas, its overwhelming to know the vastness of the Yogic principles, its philosophy and its literature. Being a certified financial planner and a certified Yoga trainer, I must admit that I find a great connection between Yogic principles and investor psychology. Yogic principles explain in detail about Investor psychology and how it plays an important role in Investment decision making. Maharishi Patanjali in YogaSutra describes five states of mind, which ranges from severely troubled to a completely mastered mind. Lets understand how it affects our investing behavior: Kshipta/disturbed This state of mind is disturbed, troubled and negative. This is the least desirable state of mind. The negative mindset can be because of lack of knowledge. In investing too, our decision is affected by the lack of knowledge and sub-optimal investing practices predominantly stem from this. We spend a lot of time to review and buy products online, but when it comes to investing we quickly park our hard earned money based on tips or hearsay. A large number of investors take decisions at the last moment e.g. tax planning. A comprehensive financial planning which includes goals, taxes and contingency should be envisaged with the help of an expert, to avoid impulsive investments. Mudha/dull Its a dull and heavy state of mind where we dont want to take efforts to invest our savings in high yield assets. We leave our savings idle, e.g, bank accounts or investments in other asset class which isnt suitable as per risk or goal value. In investing, we see gold and real estate as a safe haven. But gold has only performed well in uncertain times and real estate hasnt given better returns than equity in recent past. Considering home loan interests, the real estate returns when compared to equities will be much lesser. Be active towards equity investments and not consider only the traditional route of investments for optimum returns. Vikshipta/distracted Vikshipta mind is occasionally steady and is distracted easily. If you invest for a shorter tenure the chances are more to make losses. If you see markets in the short term it may seem highly volatile, but if you see for longer horizon, it continues to build an upward trajectory. Its advisable to remain invested for longer period and not get distracted by market news and noise, to create wealth. Ekagra/one-pointed The Ekagra mind is one-pointed, focused and concentrated. The chances of getting distracted in this state of mind are negligible. It is one of the desirable states of mind. In investing, you should be Ekagra, for instance, focused towards your financial goals. It includes knowing your goals, analysing your financial situation, risk profiling and asset allocation. Periodic monitoring and rebalancing of portfolio is also required for goal achievement. Niruddah/mastered The Nirruddah mind is highly mastered and controlled. It is the most desirable state of mind. In context of investments, you master the art of investing. It is easier said than done. To master this art, you should know how to choose stocks that the market has undervalued and they have high growth potential. The selection should be based on fundamentals like promoters background, commitment, vision, strengths of business and financials. Follow the principle of value investing and seek stocks that the market has undervalued. Out of these five states of mind, the last 2 stages are most desirable and one should avoid being in the first three states of mind. Identify your state of mind and apply these basic yogic principles to grow your wealth. (The author is the MD & CEO of Axis Securities)
Jonathan Ananda By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Even as the central government is bent on promoting affordable air travel in India, small private aircraft carriers have begun to be forced to the wayside. On Sunday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation notified that it had cancelled the operating licenses of Air Carnival  a Coimbatore-based single aircraft carrier.

According to the DGCA, the reason behind the cancellation was that the carrier had been unable to operate flights since grounding its single aircraft earlier this year, in April. Sources in the DGCA say that the company has been plagued with financial problems. The DGCA had also suspended licenses of regional carriers Air Costa and Air Pegasus for having been unable to operate flights.

Its aircraft has been deregistered and seized by the lessor. This is very similar to what happened with Air Pegasus, but the latter has managed to find some financial backers, pointed out a senior industry analyst.

Air Pegasus had been deprived of its Air Operator Permit (AOP) in March 2016, after facing similar trouble with the lessors of its two aircraft. While not in operation since July 27, 2016, the airline said in April that it has applied for permits to import an aircraft and begin operations again.

Air Costa -- the third carrier out of the four operating under the regional AOP, announced in February this year that it would suspend its services indefinitely for want of cash and non-payment of dues to aircraft lessors. Out of the four regional aircraft carriers, only TrueJet is still flying. This is a matter of concern, since small regional carriers like these are the mainstays of any expansion in civil aviation  especially to small tier - II and tier - III towns, pointed out a senior aviation industry veteran. The government needs to do more to ensure profitability to smaller players, or schemes like UDAN may well fall flat.

Stuck in the doldrums

Out of the four Regional Aircraft Operator Pemits provided by the DGCA to aircraft carriers, three holders of the permits have currently been grounded  primarily because of trouble with cash flow and an inability to keep aircraft lessors paid. With Air Costa, Air Pegasus and Air Carnival grounded, TrueJet remains the only operational regional AOP holder.

CHENNAI: Even as the central government is bent on promoting affordable air travel in India, small private aircraft carriers have begun to be forced to the wayside. On Sunday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation notified that it had cancelled the operating licenses of Air Carnival  a Coimbatore-based single aircraft carrier. According to the DGCA, the reason behind the cancellation was that the carrier had been unable to operate flights since grounding its single aircraft earlier this year, in April. Sources in the DGCA say that the company has been plagued with financial problems. The DGCA had also suspended licenses of regional carriers Air Costa and Air Pegasus for having been unable to operate flights. Its aircraft has been deregistered and seized by the lessor. This is very similar to what happened with Air Pegasus, but the latter has managed to find some financial backers, pointed out a senior industry analyst. Air Pegasus had been deprived of its Air Operator Permit (AOP) in March 2016, after facing similar trouble with the lessors of its two aircraft. While not in operation since July 27, 2016, the airline said in April that it has applied for permits to import an aircraft and begin operations again. Air Costa -- the third carrier out of the four operating under the regional AOP, announced in February this year that it would suspend its services indefinitely for want of cash and non-payment of dues to aircraft lessors. Out of the four regional aircraft carriers, only TrueJet is still flying. This is a matter of concern, since small regional carriers like these are the mainstays of any expansion in civil aviation  especially to small tier - II and tier - III towns, pointed out a senior aviation industry veteran. The government needs to do more to ensure profitability to smaller players, or schemes like UDAN may well fall flat. Stuck in the doldrums Out of the four Regional Aircraft Operator Pemits provided by the DGCA to aircraft carriers, three holders of the permits have currently been grounded  primarily because of trouble with cash flow and an inability to keep aircraft lessors paid. With Air Costa, Air Pegasus and Air Carnival grounded, TrueJet remains the only operational regional AOP holder.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: A traffic police officer deployed at Trinity Circle on Saturday won praise for his quick thinking by allowing an ambulance to move on ahead of President Pranab Mukherjee's convoy.

The city police on Sunday rewarded traffic police sub-inspector M L Nijalingappa for deftly allowing an ambulance on priority basis during the convoy movement of the President who was in the city for the inauguration of Metros Green Line.

Nijalingappa attached to Ulsoor Traffic police station was deployed at Trinity Circle on Saturday to facilitate the movement of the Presidents convoy. The convoy was heading towards Raj Bhavan when Nijalingappa spotted an ambulance trying to find a way towards a private hospital near HAL.

Nijalingappa immediately passed on a message to senior officials seeking permission to allow the ambulance ahead of the convoy.

Speaking to Express, Nijalingappa said it was 4.25pm when an ambulance from Hosmat Hospital was on its way towards RM Road via Trinity Circle.

As it was an emergency case, I allowed the ambulance to pass the junction immediately after passing the message to senior officials. As there was enough space and time to let the ambulance pass, I decided to allow it before the convoy passed the area."

City police commissioner Praveen Sood on Sunday rewarded PSI Nijalingappa for taking the initiative and tweeted about the same. Other Twitter users were quick to applaud the efforts of the traffic police officer.

BENGALURU: A traffic police officer deployed at Trinity Circle on Saturday won praise for his quick thinking by allowing an ambulance to move on ahead of President Pranab Mukherjee's convoy. The city police on Sunday rewarded traffic police sub-inspector M L Nijalingappa for deftly allowing an ambulance on priority basis during the convoy movement of the President who was in the city for the inauguration of Metros Green Line. Nijalingappa attached to Ulsoor Traffic police station was deployed at Trinity Circle on Saturday to facilitate the movement of the Presidents convoy. The convoy was heading towards Raj Bhavan when Nijalingappa spotted an ambulance trying to find a way towards a private hospital near HAL. Nijalingappa immediately passed on a message to senior officials seeking permission to allow the ambulance ahead of the convoy. Speaking to Express, Nijalingappa said it was 4.25pm when an ambulance from Hosmat Hospital was on its way towards RM Road via Trinity Circle. As it was an emergency case, I allowed the ambulance to pass the junction immediately after passing the message to senior officials. As there was enough space and time to let the ambulance pass, I decided to allow it before the convoy passed the area." City police commissioner Praveen Sood on Sunday rewarded PSI Nijalingappa for taking the initiative and tweeted about the same. Other Twitter users were quick to applaud the efforts of the traffic police officer.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: A CBI team today visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to probe the disappearance of Najeeb Ahmed, a student who has been missing from his hostel since October 16, 2016.

The team is looking into allegations that there was a scuffle between Ahmed and ABVP students in JNU's Mahi-Mandvi hostel. The investigators are likely to meet the suspects and people whose names have cropped up in the matter, sources said.

Najeeb's mother Fatima Nafees recently met the CBI investigators and gave details of the events before her son disappeared from his hostel.

Najeeb had returned to the University on October 13, 2016, after a holiday. On the intervening night of October 15-16, he called his mother to tell her something was wrong. Fatima Nafees said her sons roommate told her that Najib was injured in a fight.

Following that conversation, Fatima took a bus from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh to reach Delhi in the afternoon. After reaching Anand Vihar, she spoke to Najib Mujahid over the phone and asked him to meet her at the hotel. But when she reached room no. 106 of the hostel, there was no trace of Najeeb.

With the Delhi police failing to find her son, Fatima approached the Delhi High Court demanding a CBI probe. On May 16, judges G S Sistani and Rekha Palli of the High Court handed over the investigation to CBI with a directive that it be monitored by an officer not less than the rank of DIG. The matter has been posted for hearing on July 17.

The High Court has time and again come down heavily on the police for failing to trace the student after several months of investigation and even remarked that it was looking for an "escape route" and was "beating around the bush".

The court had also questioned the conduct of the police, saying that it was trying to sensationalise the matter as it was filing reports in sealed covers when "there was nothing confidential, damaging or crucial" in them.

NEW DELHI: A CBI team today visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to probe the disappearance of Najeeb Ahmed, a student who has been missing from his hostel since October 16, 2016. The team is looking into allegations that there was a scuffle between Ahmed and ABVP students in JNU's Mahi-Mandvi hostel. The investigators are likely to meet the suspects and people whose names have cropped up in the matter, sources said. Najeeb's mother Fatima Nafees recently met the CBI investigators and gave details of the events before her son disappeared from his hostel. Najeeb had returned to the University on October 13, 2016, after a holiday. On the intervening night of October 15-16, he called his mother to tell her something was wrong. Fatima Nafees said her sons roommate told her that Najib was injured in a fight. Following that conversation, Fatima took a bus from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh to reach Delhi in the afternoon. After reaching Anand Vihar, she spoke to Najib Mujahid over the phone and asked him to meet her at the hotel. But when she reached room no. 106 of the hostel, there was no trace of Najeeb. With the Delhi police failing to find her son, Fatima approached the Delhi High Court demanding a CBI probe. On May 16, judges G S Sistani and Rekha Palli of the High Court handed over the investigation to CBI with a directive that it be monitored by an officer not less than the rank of DIG. The matter has been posted for hearing on July 17. The High Court has time and again come down heavily on the police for failing to trace the student after several months of investigation and even remarked that it was looking for an "escape route" and was "beating around the bush". The court had also questioned the conduct of the police, saying that it was trying to sensationalise the matter as it was filing reports in sealed covers when "there was nothing confidential, damaging or crucial" in them.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: The alleged violations at infertility centres in Hyderabad have long been in the notice of the Telangana Health and Family Welfare department. However, they are wary of taking action as one question crops up in their minds: Where will the surrogate mothers be sent for further medication after an illegal facility is raided?

Sources in the Health department said it has come to the notice of officials that at an Infertility Centre located near Uppal, at least 30 women (surrogate mothers) were illegally confined in flats till delivery of the child. The issue was brought up at a Medical Council meeting held around three to four months ago, but the officials could not come to a conclusion on the aftermath of a crackdown.

On Saturday, Hyderabad Police Task Force team, along with Hyderabad District Medical and Health Officer Dr Padmaja, conducted checks on Sai Kiran Infertility Centre located at Banjara Hills. Task Force officials, who got tipped off about the alleged irregularities at the centre through some doctors, said that 48 surrogate mothers were confined there.

In another case in November 2016, officials had cancelled medical licence of a Gynecologist who used to own an infertility centre as irregularities were reported. In a shocking case there, a couple who opted for surrogacy, got to know that the baby was not theirs. A surrogate baby was born but its DNA did not match with that of the couple who opted for surrogacy. They got to know about this before flying to USA. These are the range of violations, an official said.

While officials have information on Infertility Centres where surrogate mothers are confined or rules are being violated, immediate raids is not a possibility. Officials said before conducting the raids it is important to figure out where would the surrogate mothers (confined at centres) be relocated.

However, the issue will be discussed at the monthly Medical Council meeting, scheduled to be conducted in the coming days. Apart from government officials, specialist doctors from private hospitals are part of the Medical Council.

Our faclity is legal

While government officials who raided Sai Kiran Infertility Clinic on Saturday said that the facility did not have permissions whereas as sources from the Centre claimed that it was untrue. Prior to 2016, when foreigners were allowed in India to choose surrogates, the Indian Council of Medical Research asked for applications to enrol as centres that would conduct pregnancies using assisted reproductive technologies (ART). We applied and were enrolled and we have an enrolment number. To enter the country, Foreigners need this enrolment number for their medical visa approval, informed the source from the centre. Once foreigners were stopped after the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill was approved in the Parliament in 2016. After that, no new changes have been made to the rules. The centre has been registered as an ART clinic, approved by the DMHO, sources said.

HYDERABAD: The alleged violations at infertility centres in Hyderabad have long been in the notice of the Telangana Health and Family Welfare department. However, they are wary of taking action as one question crops up in their minds: Where will the surrogate mothers be sent for further medication after an illegal facility is raided? Sources in the Health department said it has come to the notice of officials that at an Infertility Centre located near Uppal, at least 30 women (surrogate mothers) were illegally confined in flats till delivery of the child. The issue was brought up at a Medical Council meeting held around three to four months ago, but the officials could not come to a conclusion on the aftermath of a crackdown. On Saturday, Hyderabad Police Task Force team, along with Hyderabad District Medical and Health Officer Dr Padmaja, conducted checks on Sai Kiran Infertility Centre located at Banjara Hills. Task Force officials, who got tipped off about the alleged irregularities at the centre through some doctors, said that 48 surrogate mothers were confined there. In another case in November 2016, officials had cancelled medical licence of a Gynecologist who used to own an infertility centre as irregularities were reported. In a shocking case there, a couple who opted for surrogacy, got to know that the baby was not theirs. A surrogate baby was born but its DNA did not match with that of the couple who opted for surrogacy. They got to know about this before flying to USA. These are the range of violations, an official said. While officials have information on Infertility Centres where surrogate mothers are confined or rules are being violated, immediate raids is not a possibility. Officials said before conducting the raids it is important to figure out where would the surrogate mothers (confined at centres) be relocated. However, the issue will be discussed at the monthly Medical Council meeting, scheduled to be conducted in the coming days. Apart from government officials, specialist doctors from private hospitals are part of the Medical Council. Our faclity is legal While government officials who raided Sai Kiran Infertility Clinic on Saturday said that the facility did not have permissions whereas as sources from the Centre claimed that it was untrue. Prior to 2016, when foreigners were allowed in India to choose surrogates, the Indian Council of Medical Research asked for applications to enrol as centres that would conduct pregnancies using assisted reproductive technologies (ART). We applied and were enrolled and we have an enrolment number. To enter the country, Foreigners need this enrolment number for their medical visa approval, informed the source from the centre. Once foreigners were stopped after the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill was approved in the Parliament in 2016. After that, no new changes have been made to the rules. The centre has been registered as an ART clinic, approved by the DMHO, sources said.
Varsha Mohan By

Express News Service

KOCHI:Palestinian documaker Mai Masris Beirut Diaries- Truth, Lies and Videos is a documentary which is relevant in contemporary times. The documentary which was released in 2006 showcases the political differences in a country which has long been in a state of unrest. The film which was screened under the Filmmaker in Focus category at the 10th IDSFFK, documents the conditions of Lebanon, a country torn by strife.

Having never been broadcast on television, Beirut Diaries, which is a little over one-hour-long, follows the situation in Lebanon after the assassination of the Prime Minister Rafiq-al-Hariri and the demonstrations that follow. The documentary narrates the tale of a 25-year-old Lebanese youngster Nadine Zeidan who joins a group of young demonstrators with a vision to end the civil war situation in the country. Nadine, who has been a witness to such a life, represents a section of confused youngsters who are forced into taking a political stance.

Beirut Diaries was released in theatres in Lebanon at a time when there was not much dialogue on the situation. I was happy that the documentary became a platform for a conversation. I felt Nadine was a perfect choice. Though confused, she was a youngster who wanted to bring a change to the present situation in her country, said the filmmaker who came up with the idea for Beirut Diaries after her own harrowing experience in Beirut

The film speaks of the political differences that arose in the country after a series of assassinations of prominent people ending with Hariri. Demonstrators camped in tents at Martyrs Square, a historic square, located in the heart of Beirut. While a group suspected Syrian involvement in the assassination, the other group supported Syria. Speaking to both pro-Syrians and Anti-Syrians, Nadine joins the protestors demanding the withdrawal of Syrian forces from the country.

Describing the effect of the demonstrations by a number of Lebanese youngsters as mere show, Masri says the revolution turned out to be fake. There was patriotic music; the people believed that something was happening. Though the Syrians withdrew from Lebanon after the demonstrations, the Lebanese did not know they were being fooled. The revolution was fake and it was the beginning of something scary. The documentary comes to an end, giving a brief of unrests that followed, resulting in the 2006 Lebanon war. Camera Hussein Nassar has helmed the camera for the docufilm while Farah Fayed and Michele Tyan is the editor.

KOCHI:Palestinian documaker Mai Masris Beirut Diaries- Truth, Lies and Videos is a documentary which is relevant in contemporary times. The documentary which was released in 2006 showcases the political differences in a country which has long been in a state of unrest. The film which was screened under the Filmmaker in Focus category at the 10th IDSFFK, documents the conditions of Lebanon, a country torn by strife. Having never been broadcast on television, Beirut Diaries, which is a little over one-hour-long, follows the situation in Lebanon after the assassination of the Prime Minister Rafiq-al-Hariri and the demonstrations that follow. The documentary narrates the tale of a 25-year-old Lebanese youngster Nadine Zeidan who joins a group of young demonstrators with a vision to end the civil war situation in the country. Nadine, who has been a witness to such a life, represents a section of confused youngsters who are forced into taking a political stance. Beirut Diaries was released in theatres in Lebanon at a time when there was not much dialogue on the situation. I was happy that the documentary became a platform for a conversation. I felt Nadine was a perfect choice. Though confused, she was a youngster who wanted to bring a change to the present situation in her country, said the filmmaker who came up with the idea for Beirut Diaries after her own harrowing experience in Beirut The film speaks of the political differences that arose in the country after a series of assassinations of prominent people ending with Hariri. Demonstrators camped in tents at Martyrs Square, a historic square, located in the heart of Beirut. While a group suspected Syrian involvement in the assassination, the other group supported Syria. Speaking to both pro-Syrians and Anti-Syrians, Nadine joins the protestors demanding the withdrawal of Syrian forces from the country. Describing the effect of the demonstrations by a number of Lebanese youngsters as mere show, Masri says the revolution turned out to be fake. There was patriotic music; the people believed that something was happening. Though the Syrians withdrew from Lebanon after the demonstrations, the Lebanese did not know they were being fooled. The revolution was fake and it was the beginning of something scary. The documentary comes to an end, giving a brief of unrests that followed, resulting in the 2006 Lebanon war. Camera Hussein Nassar has helmed the camera for the docufilm while Farah Fayed and Michele Tyan is the editor.
S Subhakeerthana By

Express News Service

Remember the famous music video, Kodaikanal Wont, that went viral last year? Rathindran R Prasad was the man behind it. He has since quit his high-paying corporate job to become an organic farmer in Auroville! And now, hes gearing up for the release of his debut directorial venture, Idhu Vedhalam Sollum Kadhai that stars Abhay Deol, Ashwin Kakumanu, Aishwarya Rajesh, Guru Somasundaram (of Joker fame), and UK-based wrestler-actor-stunt choreographer Greg Burridge.

Rathindran, Greg, and Abhay were supposed to do a British film, which got shelved. Says the filmmaker, Abhay had read somewhere that I was doing a Tamil film with Greg Burridge. He got curious and wanted to know if we had resumed that project. He sent me a message that read: Where am I in it? I told him we were working on a different project. Eventually, I met him in Bombay and showed him the teaser and narrated the story. He liked it so much that he pitched in as one of the co-producers and decided to promote the film on a larger scale.

How did he convince Abhay to play one of the key roles in the film? As we began the shooting, I was looking for a Tamil actor to play the role of king Vikramaditya. Its not a full-fledged character, but an extended cameo. Abhay expressed his interest. But I told him that I needed somebody who could speak chaste Tamil. He was quite confident that he could pull it off, says the director. His portions are set in the 4th century. He lost about 10 kg to attain a toned look. Lyricist Veronica, the co-writer of the film, whos terrific with ancient Tamil, has trained him. In fact, hes dubbed his own lines.

Director Rathindran

Rathindran wanted the films sound to be as close to real life as possible. Though films are primarily a visual medium, sound plays a key role. So, we have recorded the sound live. Its one of the challenging areas in the production process, and requires a number of sound mixers on the sets. I dont believe in dubbing as its not professional. It kills authenticity, he says. When youre not able to capture the sound live, its fine. But dubbing an entire film is a sin! I wanted to make a film that looks real. He also reveals that the film includes portions that feature Manga (a Japanese style of animation).

The director ensured he got Tamil-speaking artistes on board to prevent dubbing. Thats why I roped in Aishwarya Rajesh. Her Tamil diction is fantastic, he adds.

Rathindran conducted workshops for the other artistes ahead of the shoot, which prepared them to deliver their best on the spot. We planned things very precisely, like in theatre rehearsals. When I signed the contract with my actors, I requested them not to sign any other project, he says.

Hes quite delighted with the results. Ashwin and Guru Somasundaram were very supportive. I dont think too many actors would have been ready to spend put in six months into a film, he says. Ashwin, he says, plays a videogame designer, who works on a project thats based on Indian mythological characters, while Guru Somasundaram will be seen in two rolesa night watchman and a secret character. The film has been shot in Telangana, Rajasthan, Chennai and Madhya Pradesh.

The director surprises me by saying that the film is not an adaptation of the Vikram-Vedhalam story. But it has characters from Indian folklore, such as Ichchadhari Naag and Mohini. Dont expect age-old, terrible CG scenes like women changing into snakes! he laughs. I guess you could say its loosely based on soul-shifters. Ive also tried to explore the metaphors behind Indian mythology and also some socio-political angles. I have tried to delve into the geopolitical dynamics. So, would it be fair to say hes approached this project rather scientifically? He laughs, Its become quite an abused term in recent years!

Remember the famous music video, Kodaikanal Wont, that went viral last year? Rathindran R Prasad was the man behind it. He has since quit his high-paying corporate job to become an organic farmer in Auroville! And now, hes gearing up for the release of his debut directorial venture, Idhu Vedhalam Sollum Kadhai that stars Abhay Deol, Ashwin Kakumanu, Aishwarya Rajesh, Guru Somasundaram (of Joker fame), and UK-based wrestler-actor-stunt choreographer Greg Burridge. Rathindran, Greg, and Abhay were supposed to do a British film, which got shelved. Says the filmmaker, Abhay had read somewhere that I was doing a Tamil film with Greg Burridge. He got curious and wanted to know if we had resumed that project. He sent me a message that read: Where am I in it? I told him we were working on a different project. Eventually, I met him in Bombay and showed him the teaser and narrated the story. He liked it so much that he pitched in as one of the co-producers and decided to promote the film on a larger scale. How did he convince Abhay to play one of the key roles in the film? As we began the shooting, I was looking for a Tamil actor to play the role of king Vikramaditya. Its not a full-fledged character, but an extended cameo. Abhay expressed his interest. But I told him that I needed somebody who could speak chaste Tamil. He was quite confident that he could pull it off, says the director. His portions are set in the 4th century. He lost about 10 kg to attain a toned look. Lyricist Veronica, the co-writer of the film, whos terrific with ancient Tamil, has trained him. In fact, hes dubbed his own lines. Director RathindranRathindran wanted the films sound to be as close to real life as possible. Though films are primarily a visual medium, sound plays a key role. So, we have recorded the sound live. Its one of the challenging areas in the production process, and requires a number of sound mixers on the sets. I dont believe in dubbing as its not professional. It kills authenticity, he says. When youre not able to capture the sound live, its fine. But dubbing an entire film is a sin! I wanted to make a film that looks real. He also reveals that the film includes portions that feature Manga (a Japanese style of animation). The director ensured he got Tamil-speaking artistes on board to prevent dubbing. Thats why I roped in Aishwarya Rajesh. Her Tamil diction is fantastic, he adds. Rathindran conducted workshops for the other artistes ahead of the shoot, which prepared them to deliver their best on the spot. We planned things very precisely, like in theatre rehearsals. When I signed the contract with my actors, I requested them not to sign any other project, he says. Hes quite delighted with the results. Ashwin and Guru Somasundaram were very supportive. I dont think too many actors would have been ready to spend put in six months into a film, he says. Ashwin, he says, plays a videogame designer, who works on a project thats based on Indian mythological characters, while Guru Somasundaram will be seen in two rolesa night watchman and a secret character. The film has been shot in Telangana, Rajasthan, Chennai and Madhya Pradesh. The director surprises me by saying that the film is not an adaptation of the Vikram-Vedhalam story. But it has characters from Indian folklore, such as Ichchadhari Naag and Mohini. Dont expect age-old, terrible CG scenes like women changing into snakes! he laughs. I guess you could say its loosely based on soul-shifters. Ive also tried to explore the metaphors behind Indian mythology and also some socio-political angles. I have tried to delve into the geopolitical dynamics. So, would it be fair to say hes approached this project rather scientifically? He laughs, Its become quite an abused term in recent years!
By Express News Service

Kamal Haasan is currently shooting for his spy-thriller Vishwaroopam 2 in Turkey. Rumour has it that 95 per cent of the film, has been shot with only minor patchwork left. Post the Turkey schedule, scenes are to be shot at Chennai in an army camp, following which the shooting will reportedly be wrapped up.

Ghibran is composing the tunes for the film, which is confirmed for release this year. Vishwroopam 2 will see Rahul Bose, Pooja Kumar and Andrea Jeremiah reprising their roles.

Kamal Haasan is currently shooting for his spy-thriller Vishwaroopam 2 in Turkey. Rumour has it that 95 per cent of the film, has been shot with only minor patchwork left. Post the Turkey schedule, scenes are to be shot at Chennai in an army camp, following which the shooting will reportedly be wrapped up. Ghibran is composing the tunes for the film, which is confirmed for release this year. Vishwroopam 2 will see Rahul Bose, Pooja Kumar and Andrea Jeremiah reprising their roles.
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: The authorities have declared a high alert in Srinagar after intelligence reports suggested that militants have moved to the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir and are planning a major attack on security forces.

Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Muneer Khan in an official communication to security agencies has stated that militants' movement was observed in Srinagar.

He warned the security agencies that militants are planning to stage attacks on security forces' camps or their deployments in Srinagar and asked them to take preventive measures to track militants and prevent further attacks.

Sources said five militants of Srinagar, who were hiding in south Kashmir, have returned to the summer capital.

They (the militants) have returned to their hide-outs in Srinagar. They have been tasked to carry out attacks on security forces deployments or their camps in Srinagar, they said.

Militants on April 15 evening, had attacked a police patrol at Hyderpora area in Srinagar, killing a policeman and injuring another.

Prior to that militants had attacked a CRPF patrol party with a grenade in Safa-Kadal area of downtown Srinagar, injuring five security personnel.

After intelligence inputs warning of militant attacks, the police, paramilitary and army men have upped patrolling and area domination in the summer capital besides increasing security around camps and major government installations.

IG CRPF Ravideep Singh Sahi said the alert will continue.

He said security forces are on the highest mode of alert to deal with any situation in Srinagar.

Asked whether militants are present in Srinagar, he said they come to their hide-outs in Srinagar and then return to their bases.

Sahi said they have got specific information that militants are planning attacks on security forces deployment and camps in Srinagar.

Asked whether the inputs are for downtown or uptown Srinagar, he said, The inputs are for city. And we have alerted our men to be ready to foil any militant attack.

He said they have reviewed the security measures after the recent militant attacks and strengthened the security, wherever the need was felt.

The area dominations and patrolling has been intensified. Besides, the Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are conducting drills to be ready to deal with any situation.

The security around the camps and major government installations including Civil Secretariat, Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan has been increased and additional security personnel deployed at these places to maintain tight vigil and thwart any militant attack.

Army has also increased the vigil in Srinagar and soldiers have intensified night patrolling and area dominations.

The soldiers in armoured vehicles are conducting night patrolling in parts of Srinagar. They have also set up temporary checks posts in Srinagar to screen the vehicles and commuters.

A police official said CCTVs in Srinagar have been activated.

He said close watch on the movement of people is being maintained through these CCTVs.

Meanwhile, after the PDP-BJP government facing flak from opposition parties for none of its ministers attending the wreath-laying function of the six policemen killed in Fridays militant attack, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today visited the residence of slain SHO Feroz Ahmad in Sangam area of south Kashmirs Pulwama district.

She spent some time with parents, wife and two kids of the slain police officer and shared their grief.

Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh had also visited the residence of slain SHO yesterday to express sympathies and condolences with the bereaved family.

SRINAGAR: The authorities have declared a high alert in Srinagar after intelligence reports suggested that militants have moved to the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir and are planning a major attack on security forces. Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Muneer Khan in an official communication to security agencies has stated that militants' movement was observed in Srinagar. He warned the security agencies that militants are planning to stage attacks on security forces' camps or their deployments in Srinagar and asked them to take preventive measures to track militants and prevent further attacks. Sources said five militants of Srinagar, who were hiding in south Kashmir, have returned to the summer capital. They (the militants) have returned to their hide-outs in Srinagar. They have been tasked to carry out attacks on security forces deployments or their camps in Srinagar, they said. Militants on April 15 evening, had attacked a police patrol at Hyderpora area in Srinagar, killing a policeman and injuring another. Prior to that militants had attacked a CRPF patrol party with a grenade in Safa-Kadal area of downtown Srinagar, injuring five security personnel. After intelligence inputs warning of militant attacks, the police, paramilitary and army men have upped patrolling and area domination in the summer capital besides increasing security around camps and major government installations. IG CRPF Ravideep Singh Sahi said the alert will continue. He said security forces are on the highest mode of alert to deal with any situation in Srinagar. Asked whether militants are present in Srinagar, he said they come to their hide-outs in Srinagar and then return to their bases. Sahi said they have got specific information that militants are planning attacks on security forces deployment and camps in Srinagar. Asked whether the inputs are for downtown or uptown Srinagar, he said, The inputs are for city. And we have alerted our men to be ready to foil any militant attack. He said they have reviewed the security measures after the recent militant attacks and strengthened the security, wherever the need was felt. The area dominations and patrolling has been intensified. Besides, the Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) are conducting drills to be ready to deal with any situation. The security around the camps and major government installations including Civil Secretariat, Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan has been increased and additional security personnel deployed at these places to maintain tight vigil and thwart any militant attack. Army has also increased the vigil in Srinagar and soldiers have intensified night patrolling and area dominations. The soldiers in armoured vehicles are conducting night patrolling in parts of Srinagar. They have also set up temporary checks posts in Srinagar to screen the vehicles and commuters. A police official said CCTVs in Srinagar have been activated. He said close watch on the movement of people is being maintained through these CCTVs. Meanwhile, after the PDP-BJP government facing flak from opposition parties for none of its ministers attending the wreath-laying function of the six policemen killed in Fridays militant attack, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today visited the residence of slain SHO Feroz Ahmad in Sangam area of south Kashmirs Pulwama district. She spent some time with parents, wife and two kids of the slain police officer and shared their grief. Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh had also visited the residence of slain SHO yesterday to express sympathies and condolences with the bereaved family.
Chinese President Xi Jinping urged the government to overcome difficulties and promote targeted measures for poverty alleviation while hosting the 39th group study of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

The goals of the plan include lifting impoverished populations and poverty-stricken counties out of poverty and solving the issue of regional poverty by 2020. The plan will help to mold China into a moderately prosperous society, and also serves as a solemn commitment made by the CPC.

To eliminate poverty, improve peoples livelihoods and achieve common prosperity is the nature of socialism and an important task of the CPC. China has lifted 700 million people in rural areas out of poverty since the reform and opening, making great achievements that have been witnessed by the entire world.

Currently, the country is at a crucial stage of poverty alleviation, with large impoverished populations in some central and western provinces. This situation leads to higher costs and more obstacles for poverty relief, which means that it is a heavy task to achieve the goal of lifting 70 million people out of poverty by 2020.

China has increased its efforts to fight poverty in recent years. The country's impoverished population was reduced by 14.42 million in 2015 and 12.40 million in 2016. According to a blue paper on poverty reduction issued by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the State Council Leading Group Office of Poverty Alleviation and Development last December, the impoverished rural population was reduced by 92.8 percent between 1978 and 2015. This amounts to lifting 710 million people out of poverty.

Chinas extraordinary achievement has also catalyzed global poverty reduction. The number of people lifted out of poverty in China accounted for 71.82 percent of the worlds total, topping the global ranking. The World Bank has lauded China as a role model for other countries in terms of poverty reduction.

Targeted measures and the application of big data are the essence of China's poverty alleviation campaign. Under the new normal of economic development, technological innovation has offered new approaches for poverty relief that cover nearly every task involved in the process. Targeted measures such as employment transfers, industrial development, relocation and education promote the cause with precision and efficacy.

By 2020, China has pledged to guarantee basic staples for its impoverished rural population, including food and clothing, education, basic medical care and housing. In addition, the growth of disposable income per capita in rural areas will surpass the national average, with the main index of basic public services reaching the national average.

The country will make sure that all impoverished people are lifted out of poverty by 2020; this is a task that must be completed as quickly and as soon as possible.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21, the premier Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has approved a short-term course in yoga.

The proposal to introduce three short-term courses in Indian culture and yoga was first floated in 2015 against the backdrop of right wing organisations insisting on propagation of culture on educational campuses to promote Indias rich heritage and restore its cultural identity Following various communications from the HRD Ministry the University Grants Commission (UGC), JNU had then circulated a draft of three courses among its various schools and departments for their feedback. The proposal was rejected by the Academic Council, in November 2015.

However, the varsity had in May last year decided to reconsider it and the departments were asked to rework on the proposed course structure and place it before the council.

The proposal was again rejected in the Academic Council meeting in October last year. While the course in Yoga Philosophy has been approved, there is no word yet on the two courses proposed on Indian culture.

NEW DELHI: Ahead of International Yoga Day on June 21, the premier Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has approved a short-term course in yoga. The proposal to introduce three short-term courses in Indian culture and yoga was first floated in 2015 against the backdrop of right wing organisations insisting on propagation of culture on educational campuses to promote Indias rich heritage and restore its cultural identity Following various communications from the HRD Ministry the University Grants Commission (UGC), JNU had then circulated a draft of three courses among its various schools and departments for their feedback. The proposal was rejected by the Academic Council, in November 2015. However, the varsity had in May last year decided to reconsider it and the departments were asked to rework on the proposed course structure and place it before the council. The proposal was again rejected in the Academic Council meeting in October last year. While the course in Yoga Philosophy has been approved, there is no word yet on the two courses proposed on Indian culture.
By PTI

THANE: Police have arrested two persons, including an auto-rickshaw driver, for allegedly abducting and molesting a teenage girl in a vehicle in Dombivli here.

This is the second incident this month of molestation in an auto-rickshaw in the district.

The 17-year-old victim, a resident of Sonarpada in Dombivli, was walking towards home from her classes on June 12 at around 6 pm when the two men dragged her into the autorickshaw and drove away, Thane police PRO Sukhada Narkar said.

The man sitting on the back seat allegedly molested the girl and when she raised an alarm, he shut her mouth, Narkar said.

As the rickshaw moved ahead, the girl spotted her brother and tried to reach out to him. However, the auto-rickshaw driver drove away, the victim said in her complaint filed on June 17, she said.

Later, as the rickshaw slowed down, the girl jumped out and managed to save herself, police said.

Based on the complaint, the accused -- auto-rickshaw driver Maunsingh Rajendra Singh (20) and co-passenger Dhirendra Mehta (26), a tempo driver by profession -- were arrested yesterday, the official said in a release.

They have been booked under IPC sections 354(a) (sexual harassment), 363 (kidnapping) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, police added.

Earlier on June 7, a 23-year-old woman was molested by a male co-passenger in a shared auto-rickshaw and then thrown out at an isolated spot on Pokhran Road in the city at around 9.30 pm.

The co-passenger and the auto driver were later arrested.

In August 2014, a 24-year-old software professional had suffered serious injuries, when she jumped from a moving auto rickshaw in Thane after the driver allegedly tried to abduct her.

THANE: Police have arrested two persons, including an auto-rickshaw driver, for allegedly abducting and molesting a teenage girl in a vehicle in Dombivli here. This is the second incident this month of molestation in an auto-rickshaw in the district. The 17-year-old victim, a resident of Sonarpada in Dombivli, was walking towards home from her classes on June 12 at around 6 pm when the two men dragged her into the autorickshaw and drove away, Thane police PRO Sukhada Narkar said. The man sitting on the back seat allegedly molested the girl and when she raised an alarm, he shut her mouth, Narkar said. As the rickshaw moved ahead, the girl spotted her brother and tried to reach out to him. However, the auto-rickshaw driver drove away, the victim said in her complaint filed on June 17, she said. Later, as the rickshaw slowed down, the girl jumped out and managed to save herself, police said. Based on the complaint, the accused -- auto-rickshaw driver Maunsingh Rajendra Singh (20) and co-passenger Dhirendra Mehta (26), a tempo driver by profession -- were arrested yesterday, the official said in a release. They have been booked under IPC sections 354(a) (sexual harassment), 363 (kidnapping) and relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, police added. Earlier on June 7, a 23-year-old woman was molested by a male co-passenger in a shared auto-rickshaw and then thrown out at an isolated spot on Pokhran Road in the city at around 9.30 pm. The co-passenger and the auto driver were later arrested. In August 2014, a 24-year-old software professional had suffered serious injuries, when she jumped from a moving auto rickshaw in Thane after the driver allegedly tried to abduct her.
Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: A condolence message from Nagaland Chief Minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu recently sparked a controversy and spurred a debate on Naga nationalism. The immediate comparison one may draw is vis-a-vis BJPs aggressive Indian nationalism. Liezietsu had mourned the death of S S Khaplang, a Naga from Myanmar, chief of insurgent group National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)-K. NSCN-K is proscribed, and Khaplang was wanted by security agencies after the outfit killed 18 soldiers in Manipur in 2015.

The debate was about if a CM, sworn under the Constitution, can mourn the death of an insurgent leader whose group is banned. This is not the first time that a politician in Nagaland or a political party in the Northeast has spoken warmly about rebels as national workers. Former Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio did it in 2003, and in Mizoram, the Mizo National Front stands up for Mizo chauvinism.

Khaplang was part of Naga nationalism. Whether there was a ceasefire with the government of India or not, he was working for the Nagas, said former Congress minister I Imkong.

Liezietsus Naga Peoples Front (NPF) is a BJP ally in Nagaland and Manipur and in Parliament. When it came to criticism of his condolence message, parties, including the Opposition, firmly stood behind Liezietsu.

Few political parties in Nagaland can afford to ignore Naga nationalism. While the Naga Club had approached the Simon Commission for excluding Naga Hills out of a future India, A Z Phizos Naga National Council had declared independence on August 14, 1947. With polls next year, Naga nationalism is hardly subliminal. The NPF slammed a section of national electronic media, which needlessly criticised the message of the CM, which exposed their ignorance of ground realities here.

GUWAHATI: A condolence message from Nagaland Chief Minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu recently sparked a controversy and spurred a debate on Naga nationalism. The immediate comparison one may draw is vis-a-vis BJPs aggressive Indian nationalism. Liezietsu had mourned the death of S S Khaplang, a Naga from Myanmar, chief of insurgent group National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN)-K. NSCN-K is proscribed, and Khaplang was wanted by security agencies after the outfit killed 18 soldiers in Manipur in 2015. The debate was about if a CM, sworn under the Constitution, can mourn the death of an insurgent leader whose group is banned. This is not the first time that a politician in Nagaland or a political party in the Northeast has spoken warmly about rebels as national workers. Former Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio did it in 2003, and in Mizoram, the Mizo National Front stands up for Mizo chauvinism. Khaplang was part of Naga nationalism. Whether there was a ceasefire with the government of India or not, he was working for the Nagas, said former Congress minister I Imkong. Liezietsus Naga Peoples Front (NPF) is a BJP ally in Nagaland and Manipur and in Parliament. When it came to criticism of his condolence message, parties, including the Opposition, firmly stood behind Liezietsu. Few political parties in Nagaland can afford to ignore Naga nationalism. While the Naga Club had approached the Simon Commission for excluding Naga Hills out of a future India, A Z Phizos Naga National Council had declared independence on August 14, 1947. With polls next year, Naga nationalism is hardly subliminal. The NPF slammed a section of national electronic media, which needlessly criticised the message of the CM, which exposed their ignorance of ground realities here.
Abhijit Mulye By

Express News Service

MUMBAI: THE Shiv Sena leadership on Sunday made it clear that while deciding to vote for the presidential candidate their preferences would depend solely on who the candidate is and nothing else.

Even as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray at the latters residence in suburban Mumbai and sought Shiv Senas support for National Democratic Alliances (NDA) candidate, the party remained non-committal.

At over an hour-long closed-door meeting between the leaders of two NDA allies, Shah told Thackeray that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide the NDAs candidate for the highest constitutional post, said sources. However, Thackeray said he would like to know the name of the ruling partys candidate before deciding on its support in the July 17 presidential election.

Sources further added that the Sena has reiterated its stand that in order to usher in the concept of Hindurashtra, the names of either Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat or father of green revolution in India Dr M S Swaminathan be considered.

It may be recalled that Bhagwat has already stated that he is not interested in the presidential polls. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and state BJP president Raosaheb Danve accompanied Shah during meeting which was also attended by Sena chiefs son and Yuva Sena president Aditya Thackeray.

Earlier in the day, Shah met Republican Party of India (Athavale faction) and Union minister for social justice Ramdas Athavale, Rashtriya Samaj Paksha leader and minister for dairy development Mahadev Jankar, MLC leader Shiv Sangram, Vinayak Mete and Vinay Kore.

On Saturday while speaking to newspersons over the Chief Ministers remarks on mid-term polls, BJP president Amit Shah argued that what Fadnavis meant was that if the mid-term polls are forced on us (BJP) then we (BJP) are ready to fight.

On the issue of recent loan waiver announced by the government, the BJP president remarked that the financial burden of the loan waiver will be on the government and not on the banks.

It may be recalled that in the past the Sena has taken stand diametrically opposite to the BJP during the 2007 and 2012 presidential polls. The Sena had supported Congress candidate Pratibhatai Patil (2007) against the BJP candidate Bhaironsingh Shekhawat and Congress candidate Pranab Mukherjee (2012) against BJPs candidate P A Sangma.

MUMBAI: THE Shiv Sena leadership on Sunday made it clear that while deciding to vote for the presidential candidate their preferences would depend solely on who the candidate is and nothing else. Even as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray at the latters residence in suburban Mumbai and sought Shiv Senas support for National Democratic Alliances (NDA) candidate, the party remained non-committal. At over an hour-long closed-door meeting between the leaders of two NDA allies, Shah told Thackeray that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide the NDAs candidate for the highest constitutional post, said sources. However, Thackeray said he would like to know the name of the ruling partys candidate before deciding on its support in the July 17 presidential election. Sources further added that the Sena has reiterated its stand that in order to usher in the concept of Hindurashtra, the names of either Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat or father of green revolution in India Dr M S Swaminathan be considered. It may be recalled that Bhagwat has already stated that he is not interested in the presidential polls. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and state BJP president Raosaheb Danve accompanied Shah during meeting which was also attended by Sena chiefs son and Yuva Sena president Aditya Thackeray. Earlier in the day, Shah met Republican Party of India (Athavale faction) and Union minister for social justice Ramdas Athavale, Rashtriya Samaj Paksha leader and minister for dairy development Mahadev Jankar, MLC leader Shiv Sangram, Vinayak Mete and Vinay Kore. On Saturday while speaking to newspersons over the Chief Ministers remarks on mid-term polls, BJP president Amit Shah argued that what Fadnavis meant was that if the mid-term polls are forced on us (BJP) then we (BJP) are ready to fight. On the issue of recent loan waiver announced by the government, the BJP president remarked that the financial burden of the loan waiver will be on the government and not on the banks. It may be recalled that in the past the Sena has taken stand diametrically opposite to the BJP during the 2007 and 2012 presidential polls. The Sena had supported Congress candidate Pratibhatai Patil (2007) against the BJP candidate Bhaironsingh Shekhawat and Congress candidate Pranab Mukherjee (2012) against BJPs candidate P A Sangma.
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Ram Nath Kovind has the reputation of being a crusader for the rights of weaker sections, especially Dalits and women, and it is told in support of that narrative that he donated his ancestral house to the Dalits of his village to serve as a venue for marriages.

He hails from the Scheduled Caste Koli community and headed the BJP Dalit Morcha from 1998 to 2002. But he never made it to elected legislatures, failing as a BJP candidate for the Ghatampur seat in Kanpur Dehat district in the 1991 Lok Sabha election and much later, in the 2007 Assembly election in UP, as the candidate for the Bhognipur seat. So Kovinds two stints as a lawmaker have been in the Rajya Sabha. He served two consecutive terms in the Upper House, spanning 1994-2006.

Born into a humble family on October 1, 1945 in Paraunkh village in Kanpur Dehat district, Kovind did his schooling at Khanpur primary and secondary school in rural Kanpur Dehat before moving to Kanpur town for his Intermediate from the famous BSND College.

He went on to graduate in commerce and law from DAV College in that industrial town and moved to the national capital to prepare for the Civil Services. He cleared the exam in his third attempt but was offered Allied Services, which he did not accept. So he returned to law and turned to practice, registering with the Delhi Bar Council in 1971.

He proved to be a successful lawyer, and he practised for 16 years in the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court till 1993. He argued for the central government in the Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and rose to be the central governments standing counsel in the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993.

His brush with politics came just after the Emergency. The Janata Party assumed power at the Centre in 1977 and Kovind was picked by Morarji Desai to be his personal secretary. It was then that he came in touch with the Jana Sanghs leaders.

It was in the saffron party that Kovind came into he own, serving as the BJPs national spokesman and serving those two terms in the Rajya Sabha. He was named to several important parliamentary committees: Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes, Home Affairs, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Social Justice and Empowerment, Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice.

A proficient speaker in Hindi and English, Kovind has been a member on the boards of academic institutions as well, such as the Board of Management of the Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar University in Lucknow and the Indian Institute of Management-Kolkata. He has represented India in the United Nations and has the credit of addressing the UN General Assembly.

Kovind's links to the BJPs Hindutva politics said to be tenuous. Sources say he has been drawn more to the politics of social empowerment of Dalits and weaker sections than the plank of religion.

Reputed to be an affable man, he has had a quiet innings as the governor of Bihar, a post that he took up in August 2015, months before Assembly elections were held in the state.

Ram Nath Kovind married Savita on May 30, 1974 and has a son Prashant and a daughter Swati.

LUCKNOW: Ram Nath Kovind has the reputation of being a crusader for the rights of weaker sections, especially Dalits and women, and it is told in support of that narrative that he donated his ancestral house to the Dalits of his village to serve as a venue for marriages. He hails from the Scheduled Caste Koli community and headed the BJP Dalit Morcha from 1998 to 2002. But he never made it to elected legislatures, failing as a BJP candidate for the Ghatampur seat in Kanpur Dehat district in the 1991 Lok Sabha election and much later, in the 2007 Assembly election in UP, as the candidate for the Bhognipur seat. So Kovinds two stints as a lawmaker have been in the Rajya Sabha. He served two consecutive terms in the Upper House, spanning 1994-2006. Born into a humble family on October 1, 1945 in Paraunkh village in Kanpur Dehat district, Kovind did his schooling at Khanpur primary and secondary school in rural Kanpur Dehat before moving to Kanpur town for his Intermediate from the famous BSND College. He went on to graduate in commerce and law from DAV College in that industrial town and moved to the national capital to prepare for the Civil Services. He cleared the exam in his third attempt but was offered Allied Services, which he did not accept. So he returned to law and turned to practice, registering with the Delhi Bar Council in 1971. He proved to be a successful lawyer, and he practised for 16 years in the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court till 1993. He argued for the central government in the Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and rose to be the central governments standing counsel in the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993. His brush with politics came just after the Emergency. The Janata Party assumed power at the Centre in 1977 and Kovind was picked by Morarji Desai to be his personal secretary. It was then that he came in touch with the Jana Sanghs leaders. It was in the saffron party that Kovind came into he own, serving as the BJPs national spokesman and serving those two terms in the Rajya Sabha. He was named to several important parliamentary committees: Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes, Home Affairs, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Social Justice and Empowerment, Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice. A proficient speaker in Hindi and English, Kovind has been a member on the boards of academic institutions as well, such as the Board of Management of the Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar University in Lucknow and the Indian Institute of Management-Kolkata. He has represented India in the United Nations and has the credit of addressing the UN General Assembly. Kovind's links to the BJPs Hindutva politics said to be tenuous. Sources say he has been drawn more to the politics of social empowerment of Dalits and weaker sections than the plank of religion. Reputed to be an affable man, he has had a quiet innings as the governor of Bihar, a post that he took up in August 2015, months before Assembly elections were held in the state. Ram Nath Kovind married Savita on May 30, 1974 and has a son Prashant and a daughter Swati.
By IANS

MUMBAI: Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and BJP President Amit Shah met here, the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally -- this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal.

"Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'.

Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but "some people" are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra.

"We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said.

"The BJP is standing solidly with 'anti-national elements', it is backing (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit.

The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers.

The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said.

About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI (of Pakistan) have already wrested control over the critical border state.

"These (BJP/Parivar) people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said.

The Sena's attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came barely 24 hours after Shah and Thackeray met in Mumbai for 75 minutes amid optimism of a thaw in the chilled relations between the two allies of nearly three decades.

MUMBAI: Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and BJP President Amit Shah met here, the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally -- this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal. "Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'. Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but "some people" are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra. "We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said. "The BJP is standing solidly with 'anti-national elements', it is backing (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit. The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers. The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said. About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI (of Pakistan) have already wrested control over the critical border state. "These (BJP/Parivar) people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said. The Sena's attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came barely 24 hours after Shah and Thackeray met in Mumbai for 75 minutes amid optimism of a thaw in the chilled relations between the two allies of nearly three decades.
By PTI

DARJEELING: Stones and bottles in hand, the highly motivated youths are giving a tough time to the security forces in keeping law and order in the restive Darjeeling hills.

Meet 18-year-old Pranab, a student of class XII, who has become a regular stone-pelter since June 8 when the first stirring of disturbance appeared after the 'imposition' of Bengali language in schools.

We want Gorkhaland. We want a separate state. It is a fight for our own identity and future. It is my right and I will have it, he asserted.

He is one of thousands of youths who have come out in open support for Gorkhaland and have challenged the security forces when they were lathi-charged.

India is a democracy and in democracy everybody has the right to hold peaceful protest. How can someone stop us from organising protest? We did not resort to violence first, but if we are beaten up we will not sit idle. The police will be paid back in their own coin, a third year student, whose face was covered with a black cloth, told PTI.

Well-versed with the ideals of communists like Karl Marx and Che Guevara, the student said, "I have my own identity and don't want to get it mixed up with others. I respect all communities and religions. But everybody should understand our sentiments."

Most of the youths who have indulged in stone-pelting are educated and come from good families.

I am not a goon or a street guy whom the police can just beat up whenever it wants to. I am fighting for my right.

Several of my family members have been in the Army and have served the nation. We are not anti-nationals. We just want a state of our own, said 25-year-old Binay who has completed his masters in English from Calcutta University.

With the state government making it mandatory to learn Bengali in the schools of Bengal, the people of Darjeeling, whose local lingo and mother tongue is Nepali, felt that it was a threat of infringement into their cultural rights.

Had the state government come out with a statement declaring that Bengali would not be imposed in the hills, the situation would not have turned so violent, said a student of renowned college of Darjeeling.

With their agility and intimate knowledge of the local terrain, the youths frequently switch positions while pelting stones giving the police a hard time.

To be honest, the youths have stayed away from hurling stones at the Army, as defence forces have a passionate place in their heart with as many as 90 per cent of the families in Darjeeling having either a serving or a retired army personnel in their families.

Indian Army has a special place in our heart. You will not find a single family in the hills which doesnt have either a serving or a retired army personnel, a 20-year-old youth said.

DARJEELING: Stones and bottles in hand, the highly motivated youths are giving a tough time to the security forces in keeping law and order in the restive Darjeeling hills. Meet 18-year-old Pranab, a student of class XII, who has become a regular stone-pelter since June 8 when the first stirring of disturbance appeared after the 'imposition' of Bengali language in schools. We want Gorkhaland. We want a separate state. It is a fight for our own identity and future. It is my right and I will have it, he asserted. He is one of thousands of youths who have come out in open support for Gorkhaland and have challenged the security forces when they were lathi-charged. India is a democracy and in democracy everybody has the right to hold peaceful protest. How can someone stop us from organising protest? We did not resort to violence first, but if we are beaten up we will not sit idle. The police will be paid back in their own coin, a third year student, whose face was covered with a black cloth, told PTI. Well-versed with the ideals of communists like Karl Marx and Che Guevara, the student said, "I have my own identity and don't want to get it mixed up with others. I respect all communities and religions. But everybody should understand our sentiments." Most of the youths who have indulged in stone-pelting are educated and come from good families. I am not a goon or a street guy whom the police can just beat up whenever it wants to. I am fighting for my right. Several of my family members have been in the Army and have served the nation. We are not anti-nationals. We just want a state of our own, said 25-year-old Binay who has completed his masters in English from Calcutta University. With the state government making it mandatory to learn Bengali in the schools of Bengal, the people of Darjeeling, whose local lingo and mother tongue is Nepali, felt that it was a threat of infringement into their cultural rights. Had the state government come out with a statement declaring that Bengali would not be imposed in the hills, the situation would not have turned so violent, said a student of renowned college of Darjeeling. With their agility and intimate knowledge of the local terrain, the youths frequently switch positions while pelting stones giving the police a hard time. To be honest, the youths have stayed away from hurling stones at the Army, as defence forces have a passionate place in their heart with as many as 90 per cent of the families in Darjeeling having either a serving or a retired army personnel in their families. Indian Army has a special place in our heart. You will not find a single family in the hills which doesnt have either a serving or a retired army personnel, a 20-year-old youth said.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The opposition has been taken aback by the BJPs announcement of Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for president. They have decided to meet on June 22 to take a call on fielding a candidate against the rulings partys nominee.

Congress general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad described the BJPs choice as unilateral but added, "We are not going to comment on the merits and demerits of the BJPs candidate. The Congress wants to take a unanimous decision along with the other opposition parties in the meeting on June 22."

Prakash Ambedkar at a Dalit Swabhimaan Rally in Bengaluru in November 2016 along with CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury - Express Photo by Nagesh Polali

There were indications of multiple thoughts within the opposition. Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal said the parties will meet and decide whether or not to field a consensus opposition candidate. But only a day earlier on Sunday, Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav had assured NDA leaders of his party's support -- with the rider that the candidate not be a strong saffron votary.

Furthermore, Mayawati of the BSP extended support to Ram Nath Kovind, saying her party cannot in principle oppose a candidate who hails from a Dalit community. As he is a Dalit we are positive about his name, but only if the opposition does not announce a popular Dalit name, she added.

Azad was critical that the BJP's consultations with the opposition had only been a "formality and a PR exercise". He said no names were discussed when senior BJP leaders Venkaiah Naidu and Rajnath Singh met Congress president Sonia Gandhi last week.

"They informed us of their choice only after announcing their decision. So there is no scope for consensus now. We were not expecting this from the ruling party. But it is their will, they are free to take a one-sided unilateral decision," Azad added.

The left parties also joined chorus with the Congress about not being consulted before announcing the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind. The CPIs national secretary D Raja said Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu had not proposed any name in their consultations.

Raja said, "Now they have named a person with an RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties.

The Opposition is said to be considering the names of former speaker Meira Kumar and B R Ambedkars grandson Prakash Ambedkar to field as the Opposition candidate against Ram Nath Kovind.

However, Meira Kumars candidature may be opposed by the Left parties, BJD and Aam Aadmi Party, for they are against supporting a member of the Congress.

A source in the opposition said, Ambedkars grandson is an ideal candidate and will get the support of the BSP. It could also make it tough for the Shiv Sena to support Ram Nath Kovind as Prakash Ambedkar is a Maharashtrian.

The thinking in the Janata Dal (U) is that there is no problem with supporting Ram Nath Kovind as he is a Maha Dalit but the party might not like to break ranks with the Opposition at this moment.

The SP is likely to support the Congress candidate while RJD leader Lalu Yadav, who is likely to miss the June 22 meeting as he has to appear in court in Ranchi, has made it clear he would like the Opposition to field a candidate.

NEW DELHI: The opposition has been taken aback by the BJPs announcement of Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for president. They have decided to meet on June 22 to take a call on fielding a candidate against the rulings partys nominee. Congress general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad described the BJPs choice as unilateral but added, "We are not going to comment on the merits and demerits of the BJPs candidate. The Congress wants to take a unanimous decision along with the other opposition parties in the meeting on June 22." Prakash Ambedkar at a Dalit Swabhimaan Rally in Bengaluru in November 2016 along with CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury - Express Photo by Nagesh Polali There were indications of multiple thoughts within the opposition. Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal said the parties will meet and decide whether or not to field a consensus opposition candidate. But only a day earlier on Sunday, Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav had assured NDA leaders of his party's support -- with the rider that the candidate not be a strong saffron votary. Furthermore, Mayawati of the BSP extended support to Ram Nath Kovind, saying her party cannot in principle oppose a candidate who hails from a Dalit community. As he is a Dalit we are positive about his name, but only if the opposition does not announce a popular Dalit name, she added. Azad was critical that the BJP's consultations with the opposition had only been a "formality and a PR exercise". He said no names were discussed when senior BJP leaders Venkaiah Naidu and Rajnath Singh met Congress president Sonia Gandhi last week. "They informed us of their choice only after announcing their decision. So there is no scope for consensus now. We were not expecting this from the ruling party. But it is their will, they are free to take a one-sided unilateral decision," Azad added. The left parties also joined chorus with the Congress about not being consulted before announcing the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind. The CPIs national secretary D Raja said Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu had not proposed any name in their consultations. Raja said, "Now they have named a person with an RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. The Opposition is said to be considering the names of former speaker Meira Kumar and B R Ambedkars grandson Prakash Ambedkar to field as the Opposition candidate against Ram Nath Kovind. However, Meira Kumars candidature may be opposed by the Left parties, BJD and Aam Aadmi Party, for they are against supporting a member of the Congress. A source in the opposition said, Ambedkars grandson is an ideal candidate and will get the support of the BSP. It could also make it tough for the Shiv Sena to support Ram Nath Kovind as Prakash Ambedkar is a Maharashtrian. The thinking in the Janata Dal (U) is that there is no problem with supporting Ram Nath Kovind as he is a Maha Dalit but the party might not like to break ranks with the Opposition at this moment. The SP is likely to support the Congress candidate while RJD leader Lalu Yadav, who is likely to miss the June 22 meeting as he has to appear in court in Ranchi, has made it clear he would like the Opposition to field a candidate.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: In order to expedite military supply platforms by Russia to India, Defence minister Arun Jaitley is leaving for four day visit to Moscow.

Starting from June 20, will be Arun Jaitleys second visit to Russia, as he made his last visit in April. During his visit, Jaitley will hold Indo-Russian military technical cooperation meeting and multiple issues of defence will be discussed his meeting with Russian counterpart General Sergey Shoygu.

According to defence ministry, Jaitley will be received by the Russian deputy prime minister and will hold discussion in the high level committee on cooperation in field of high technologies of military, dual and civil purpose.

Besides, Jaitley will have a close door meeting with his counterpart to work out pending issues including sale of S400 air defence systems. It is also believed that during the meeting, future course of action on the jinxed Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) will also be held.

Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had given the go ahead for setting up an Indo-Russian joint venture for production of 200 Kamov military helicopters for India under a $1-billion deal. Both Jaitley and Shoygu is expected to further expedite the process of setting up manufacturing unit for the much needed light utility helicopters for the armed forces.

NEW DELHI: In order to expedite military supply platforms by Russia to India, Defence minister Arun Jaitley is leaving for four day visit to Moscow. Starting from June 20, will be Arun Jaitleys second visit to Russia, as he made his last visit in April. During his visit, Jaitley will hold Indo-Russian military technical cooperation meeting and multiple issues of defence will be discussed his meeting with Russian counterpart General Sergey Shoygu. According to defence ministry, Jaitley will be received by the Russian deputy prime minister and will hold discussion in the high level committee on cooperation in field of high technologies of military, dual and civil purpose. Besides, Jaitley will have a close door meeting with his counterpart to work out pending issues including sale of S400 air defence systems. It is also believed that during the meeting, future course of action on the jinxed Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) will also be held. Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin had given the go ahead for setting up an Indo-Russian joint venture for production of 200 Kamov military helicopters for India under a $1-billion deal. Both Jaitley and Shoygu is expected to further expedite the process of setting up manufacturing unit for the much needed light utility helicopters for the armed forces.
By Express News Service

MYSURU: Eminent historian Ramachandra Guha said the Narendra Modi government is hostile to literature and is the most anti-intellectual government. He was interacting with the audience after delivering a talk on History beyond chauvinism at a literary festival organised by the Mysuru Literary Association, in Mysuru on Sunday.

He said, Political leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L K Advani, Jaswant Singh, Yashwant Sinha, George Fernandes and Arun Shourie read and wrote books, but not a single person from the Modi government has penned a single book, as their priorities are different.

Freedom of speech was never perfect in the country, and remained imperfect due to restrictions by the Congress government. At present, freedom of expression is exaggerated to dub the dispensation at the Centre as fascist, he said.

He said, Writer S L Bhyrappa, a jewel of India, received the Padma Shri, while, Sri Sri Ravishankar of the Art of Living Foundation received the Padma Vibhushan. This shows the priorities of the Modi Government. In the past, Bhyrappa was not recognised because of leftists in Delhi.

Bhyrappa said writers in India today cannot distinguish between real philosophical issues and issues that are tackled by social scientists. There is no depth in the writings, and the works do not reach the level of philosophy. Novelist Shashi Deshpande spoke on the occasion.

MYSURU: Eminent historian Ramachandra Guha said the Narendra Modi government is hostile to literature and is the most anti-intellectual government. He was interacting with the audience after delivering a talk on History beyond chauvinism at a literary festival organised by the Mysuru Literary Association, in Mysuru on Sunday. He said, Political leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L K Advani, Jaswant Singh, Yashwant Sinha, George Fernandes and Arun Shourie read and wrote books, but not a single person from the Modi government has penned a single book, as their priorities are different. Freedom of speech was never perfect in the country, and remained imperfect due to restrictions by the Congress government. At present, freedom of expression is exaggerated to dub the dispensation at the Centre as fascist, he said. He said, Writer S L Bhyrappa, a jewel of India, received the Padma Shri, while, Sri Sri Ravishankar of the Art of Living Foundation received the Padma Vibhushan. This shows the priorities of the Modi Government. In the past, Bhyrappa was not recognised because of leftists in Delhi. Bhyrappa said writers in India today cannot distinguish between real philosophical issues and issues that are tackled by social scientists. There is no depth in the writings, and the works do not reach the level of philosophy. Novelist Shashi Deshpande spoke on the occasion.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A joint squad of Excise and Commercial Tax Department arrested a Ghana national and seized 400 thousand fake British pounds worth around `3 crore from a private bus at Amaravila check-post on Sunday. Ron Edison, 36, has been handed over to the Parassala police for further interrogation. The police suspect he is a member of an international fake lottery racket.

According to Excise sleuths, he was nabbed from a Thivuananthapuram-bound private bus from Bengaluru around 8.50 am. The bus was checked as part of the routine inspection. The bag, found under Robs seat, was partitioned using a metal box. The sleuths found 10 bundles of British pound currency notes, blank papers and a chemical used for colouring the blank notes inside the box.

Upon interrogation, Rob said he was on his way to hand over the money to his boss in Thiruvananthapuram. However, he did not divulge any information about him.

We handed him over to the police, who are trying to find his whereabouts, said an Excise officer.

He is likely to be produced before the magistrate at Neyyattinkara on Monday. Recently, the inspection at the check-post was intensified following a spurt in smuggling of goods as well as narcotics through private and public transport buses.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A joint squad of Excise and Commercial Tax Department arrested a Ghana national and seized 400 thousand fake British pounds worth around `3 crore from a private bus at Amaravila check-post on Sunday. Ron Edison, 36, has been handed over to the Parassala police for further interrogation. The police suspect he is a member of an international fake lottery racket. According to Excise sleuths, he was nabbed from a Thivuananthapuram-bound private bus from Bengaluru around 8.50 am. The bus was checked as part of the routine inspection. The bag, found under Robs seat, was partitioned using a metal box. The sleuths found 10 bundles of British pound currency notes, blank papers and a chemical used for colouring the blank notes inside the box. Upon interrogation, Rob said he was on his way to hand over the money to his boss in Thiruvananthapuram. However, he did not divulge any information about him. We handed him over to the police, who are trying to find his whereabouts, said an Excise officer. He is likely to be produced before the magistrate at Neyyattinkara on Monday. Recently, the inspection at the check-post was intensified following a spurt in smuggling of goods as well as narcotics through private and public transport buses.
By Express News Service

KASARGOD: Shajeer Mangalasseri Abdulla, 35, suspected to be the kingpin of the Islamic State (IS) module in Kerala, was reportedly killed in an air strike in Afghanistan.Social activist B C Rahman - who routinely gets information on Malayalees in the IS camp at Nangarhar in Afghanistan - said he received the photograph of Abdullas body on Telegram on Monday morning. The message was sent from an account purportedly used by Asfaq Majeed, one of the 21 persons from Kerala who went missing and were suspected to have joined the terrorist organisation in May 2016.



The police said Shajeer Mangalasseri Abdulla, son of Mangalassery Abdulla and Subaida, was the earliest to leave India to join the IS. The National Investigation Authority, probing the case, suspected Abdulla and Rasheed Abdulla of Padna ran the module and recruited Malayalees from Kerala for the IS.

Shajeer Mangalasseri



Shajeer Abdulla, a civil engineering graduate from National Institute of Technology-Calicut, used to run multiple Facebook accounts under different names, including Sameer Ali, to propagate the ideology, officers said.

These accounts were inactive for the past three months, they said. In April, there were reports Abdulla was killed in Afghanistan. This is the first time we have got a confirmation. But I dont know whether he was killed now or then, said Rahman.



He said Asfaq Majeed, who had earlier confirmed the death of Kasargod natives T K Mursheed Mohammed and Hafeesuddin, and Yahiya, a native of Yakara in Palakkad, had never mentioned Abdulla in his messages before. He did his schooling in Sultan Batheri in Wayanad, where his father was a driver with the KSRTC. His father died 10 years ago.



The family moved to Moozhikkal near Kozhikode when he got admission at NIT. His alleged role came to light when the NIA raided a camp being held at Kanakamala in Kannur and arrested five persons.

The NIA reportedly got more information on Abdulla when Moinudeen, a native of Kanhangad, fell into its net in the UAE. According to the investigating agency, he had met up with Abdulla in Afghanistan and transferred money to the terror module in Kerala.

KASARGOD: Shajeer Mangalasseri Abdulla, 35, suspected to be the kingpin of the Islamic State (IS) module in Kerala, was reportedly killed in an air strike in Afghanistan.Social activist B C Rahman - who routinely gets information on Malayalees in the IS camp at Nangarhar in Afghanistan - said he received the photograph of Abdullas body on Telegram on Monday morning. The message was sent from an account purportedly used by Asfaq Majeed, one of the 21 persons from Kerala who went missing and were suspected to have joined the terrorist organisation in May 2016. The police said Shajeer Mangalasseri Abdulla, son of Mangalassery Abdulla and Subaida, was the earliest to leave India to join the IS. The National Investigation Authority, probing the case, suspected Abdulla and Rasheed Abdulla of Padna ran the module and recruited Malayalees from Kerala for the IS. Shajeer Mangalasseri Shajeer Abdulla, a civil engineering graduate from National Institute of Technology-Calicut, used to run multiple Facebook accounts under different names, including Sameer Ali, to propagate the ideology, officers said. These accounts were inactive for the past three months, they said. In April, there were reports Abdulla was killed in Afghanistan. This is the first time we have got a confirmation. But I dont know whether he was killed now or then, said Rahman. He said Asfaq Majeed, who had earlier confirmed the death of Kasargod natives T K Mursheed Mohammed and Hafeesuddin, and Yahiya, a native of Yakara in Palakkad, had never mentioned Abdulla in his messages before. He did his schooling in Sultan Batheri in Wayanad, where his father was a driver with the KSRTC. His father died 10 years ago. The family moved to Moozhikkal near Kozhikode when he got admission at NIT. His alleged role came to light when the NIA raided a camp being held at Kanakamala in Kannur and arrested five persons. The NIA reportedly got more information on Abdulla when Moinudeen, a native of Kanhangad, fell into its net in the UAE. According to the investigating agency, he had met up with Abdulla in Afghanistan and transferred money to the terror module in Kerala.
B Anbuselvan By

Express News Service

VELLORE: A breathtaking spectacle beckoned thousands to an otherwise sleepy village near Vandavasi on Saturday. Gasping in surprise, they struggled to believe their eyes. Two single rocks - one 64-feet long weighing about 380 metric tonnes and the other 24-feet long weighing about 230 metric tonnes - cut from a mini-hill located in Korakottai village in Chettikulam were being loaded onto two mega cargo trucks.

The people behind the spectacle were members of Sri Kothandaramaswamy Charitable Trust in Bengaluru and the rocks are to be used to build a 108-feet statue of Kothandaramaswamy on the compound of the temple, run by the trust, in Ejipura. The temple was built more than 60 years ago.

The idol will have 22 hands, 11 faces and another statue of seven-headed Aadisesha (serpent) will be attached to it. There are also plans to construct a 27-feet peedam. The trust began its work to cut the rocks in October 2014, which could be only completed a week ago.

A special pooja was performed before the rocks were loaded. Laxmanan, who was in-charge of monitoring the work at the trusts behest, said the rocks were cut by using latest technologies.



One face, two hands and two chakras were carved out of one rock, while the other is being transported without any work on it. The transportation was delayed as the cargo trucks failed to fully accommodate the rocks.

The rocks will be transported using two mega cargo trucks having 160 and 90 wheels. The width of truck chasis will have to be slightly widened, added Laxmanan.

Temple priest Srinivasa Venkatesan said the statue is being built by a team of sthapathis headed by Rajendra Acharya from Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam and the remaining works will be completed in Bengaluru.



Temple sources also added that a few houses will have to be demolished, at least partially, to make way for the rocks. They will be re-constructed by the temple trust.

Many devotees offered their prayers in front of the rocks and some of them were also seen applying saffron and turmeric on them, while the young preferred to take selfies with giant rocks in the background. S Komathinayagam, a farmer from Tellar, said he felt blessed as the trust members preferred to take rocks from Korakottai. We believe the rocks will stay here, so that we can build a temple here.



In October 2014, the geology and mining department granted permission to S Sadananda of Temple Trust to quarry 420 cubic metres of charnokite rock from the village.

VELLORE: A breathtaking spectacle beckoned thousands to an otherwise sleepy village near Vandavasi on Saturday. Gasping in surprise, they struggled to believe their eyes. Two single rocks - one 64-feet long weighing about 380 metric tonnes and the other 24-feet long weighing about 230 metric tonnes - cut from a mini-hill located in Korakottai village in Chettikulam were being loaded onto two mega cargo trucks. The people behind the spectacle were members of Sri Kothandaramaswamy Charitable Trust in Bengaluru and the rocks are to be used to build a 108-feet statue of Kothandaramaswamy on the compound of the temple, run by the trust, in Ejipura. The temple was built more than 60 years ago. The idol will have 22 hands, 11 faces and another statue of seven-headed Aadisesha (serpent) will be attached to it. There are also plans to construct a 27-feet peedam. The trust began its work to cut the rocks in October 2014, which could be only completed a week ago. A special pooja was performed before the rocks were loaded. Laxmanan, who was in-charge of monitoring the work at the trusts behest, said the rocks were cut by using latest technologies. One face, two hands and two chakras were carved out of one rock, while the other is being transported without any work on it. The transportation was delayed as the cargo trucks failed to fully accommodate the rocks. The rocks will be transported using two mega cargo trucks having 160 and 90 wheels. The width of truck chasis will have to be slightly widened, added Laxmanan. Temple priest Srinivasa Venkatesan said the statue is being built by a team of sthapathis headed by Rajendra Acharya from Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam and the remaining works will be completed in Bengaluru. Temple sources also added that a few houses will have to be demolished, at least partially, to make way for the rocks. They will be re-constructed by the temple trust. Many devotees offered their prayers in front of the rocks and some of them were also seen applying saffron and turmeric on them, while the young preferred to take selfies with giant rocks in the background. S Komathinayagam, a farmer from Tellar, said he felt blessed as the trust members preferred to take rocks from Korakottai. We believe the rocks will stay here, so that we can build a temple here. In October 2014, the geology and mining department granted permission to S Sadananda of Temple Trust to quarry 420 cubic metres of charnokite rock from the village.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: The government is according utmost importance and priority to education of Muslims, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said the state government established 204 residential schools for the education of socially and economically backward Muslims.

Rao was speaking after laying the foundation stone of `20 crore Anees-ul-Gurbha complex at Nampally here on Sunday. The complex will be used for providing education and shelter to Muslim orphans.

KCR, who was given a rousing reception at Nampally by local Muslims, interacted with them. He expressed the desire that the new complex of over 100-year-old Anees-ul-Gurbha should be constructed excellently.

Anees-Ul-Gurbha, set up in 1921, has been providing shelter to 60 persons. It lost 191 square yards of its land in the recent road-widening programme. To compensate the loss, government has allotted 4,000 square yards of site and sanctioned ` 20 crore for constructing a new complex.

WATCH VIDEO:

Designs have been prepared for a seven-storeyed building with a plinth area of about 1.53 lakh sft. The first two floors will be used for commercial purpose and the upper five to provide shelter to about 500 orphan children. A school will also be part of the complex. Students of classes from first standard to degree can get shelter here. Those who join here may continue to stay there till they settle down in life. Deputy CM Mahmood Ali, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, MLAs and MLCs were also present at the ceremony.

HYDERABAD: The government is according utmost importance and priority to education of Muslims, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said the state government established 204 residential schools for the education of socially and economically backward Muslims. Rao was speaking after laying the foundation stone of `20 crore Anees-ul-Gurbha complex at Nampally here on Sunday. The complex will be used for providing education and shelter to Muslim orphans. KCR, who was given a rousing reception at Nampally by local Muslims, interacted with them. He expressed the desire that the new complex of over 100-year-old Anees-ul-Gurbha should be constructed excellently. Anees-Ul-Gurbha, set up in 1921, has been providing shelter to 60 persons. It lost 191 square yards of its land in the recent road-widening programme. To compensate the loss, government has allotted 4,000 square yards of site and sanctioned ` 20 crore for constructing a new complex. WATCH VIDEO: window.__ventunoplayer = window.__ventunoplayer||[];window.__ventunoplayer.push({video_key: 'OTUyNjUzfHw4fHw2fHwxLDIsMQ==', holder_id: 'vt-video-player', player_type: 'vp', width:'100%', ratio:'4:3'});Designs have been prepared for a seven-storeyed building with a plinth area of about 1.53 lakh sft. The first two floors will be used for commercial purpose and the upper five to provide shelter to about 500 orphan children. A school will also be part of the complex. Students of classes from first standard to degree can get shelter here. Those who join here may continue to stay there till they settle down in life. Deputy CM Mahmood Ali, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, MLAs and MLCs were also present at the ceremony.
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON: A member of the president's outside legal team said Sunday that Donald Trump is not under federal investigation, days after Trump appeared to confirm he was with a tweet about being the target of a "witch hunt."

Appearing on a series of morning news programs, attorney Jay Sekulow repeatedly stressed that "the president has not been and is not under investigation." He said a Friday tweet from Trump was specifically directed at a story in The Washington Post about the expanding probe into Russia's election meddling.

As evidence, Sekulow said that Trump has not been notified of any investigation. He also cited the testimony from former FBI Director James Comey before the Senate intelligence committee, in which Comey said he had told Trump he was not under investigation in the months leading up to his May 9 firing.

Asked about the possibility that an investigation has since developed and the president just does not know, Sekulow said: "I can't read people's minds, but I can tell you this, we have not been notified that there's an investigation to the president of the United States. So that  nothing has changed in that regard since James Comey's testimony."

The Post reported last week that Robert Mueller  the special counsel appointed to investigate Russian involvement in the 2016 presidential election  was looking into whether Trump obstructed justice. Mueller was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and has expansive powers to probe any matters that develop from his initial investigation.

The president wrote on Twitter Friday: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt."

"Witch hunt" has become Trump's preferred phrase to dismiss the probe into Russian election interference. The message apparently referred to Rosenstein, whose role leading the federal investigation has become increasingly complicated. The White House used a memo he wrote to justify Trump's decision to fire Comey, but Trump's firing of the FBI director may now be part of the probe.

The president has denied that he has any nefarious ties to Russia and has also disputed that he's attempted to block the investigation into his campaign's possible role in Russia's election-related hacking.

The president has directed some of his frustration at Rosenstein and Mueller. Sen. Marco Rubio said Sunday that he does not expect Trump to seek to fire them.

"I don't believe it's going to happen," said Rubio on CNN's "State of the Union." ''The best thing that could happen for the president, and the country, is a full and credible investigation."

Trump is under pressure to reveal whether he has any tape recordings of private conversations with Comey. Rep. Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House intelligence committee, said that the panel  overseeing one of several congressional investigations  is looking forward to getting a response from the White House on whether recordings exist.

The president suggested on Twitter that he may have taped those conversations. Schiff said he wants the White House to acknowledge the tapes or make clear there are no tapes and "it was an idle threat."

The committee sent a bipartisan letter this month to White House counsel Don McGahn seeking an answer by this Friday. It also sent a letter to Comey asking for any notes or memos. Schiff said if the panel can't get an answer then he believes a subpoena will be needed.

Schiff also said he believes recent congressional testimony from Comey and Attorney General Jeff Sessions points to signs of possible obstruction by Trump that warrant further investigation. Schiff cited the fact that the president at one meeting "cleared the room" of advisers and asked to speak to Comey alone. Comey testified to Congress that Trump then asked him to back off the investigation into his fired national security adviser, Michael Flynn.

"That signifies this president knew all too well that it was inappropriate," Schiff said.

And Senate intelligence committee member Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, stressed that the probe will likely last for a long time. King said the "collusion, the cooperation aspect of the investigation is not over." He added: "A lot of people have said, 'When do you think you'll be done?' Maybe the end of the year. This is a very complex matter, involving thousands of pages of intelligence documents, lots of witnesses. There's a lot of information yet to go."

While aides have advised Trump to stay off Twitter, the president continued to weigh in Sunday as he spent the weekend at Camp David, the government-owned presidential retreat in Maryland.

In a two-part tweet posted before 7 a.m., Trump wrote: "The MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN agenda is doing very well despite the distraction of the Witch Hunt."

Sekulow appeared on NBC's "Meet the Press," CNN's "State of the Union," CBS's "Face the Nation" and "Fox News Sunday" on Fox. Rubio spoke on NBC, CNN and CBS. Schiff spoke on ABC's "This Week"and King spoke on NBC.

WASHINGTON: A member of the president's outside legal team said Sunday that Donald Trump is not under federal investigation, days after Trump appeared to confirm he was with a tweet about being the target of a "witch hunt." Appearing on a series of morning news programs, attorney Jay Sekulow repeatedly stressed that "the president has not been and is not under investigation." He said a Friday tweet from Trump was specifically directed at a story in The Washington Post about the expanding probe into Russia's election meddling. As evidence, Sekulow said that Trump has not been notified of any investigation. He also cited the testimony from former FBI Director James Comey before the Senate intelligence committee, in which Comey said he had told Trump he was not under investigation in the months leading up to his May 9 firing. Asked about the possibility that an investigation has since developed and the president just does not know, Sekulow said: "I can't read people's minds, but I can tell you this, we have not been notified that there's an investigation to the president of the United States. So that  nothing has changed in that regard since James Comey's testimony." The Post reported last week that Robert Mueller  the special counsel appointed to investigate Russian involvement in the 2016 presidential election  was looking into whether Trump obstructed justice. Mueller was appointed by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and has expansive powers to probe any matters that develop from his initial investigation. The president wrote on Twitter Friday: "I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt." "Witch hunt" has become Trump's preferred phrase to dismiss the probe into Russian election interference. The message apparently referred to Rosenstein, whose role leading the federal investigation has become increasingly complicated. The White House used a memo he wrote to justify Trump's decision to fire Comey, but Trump's firing of the FBI director may now be part of the probe. The president has denied that he has any nefarious ties to Russia and has also disputed that he's attempted to block the investigation into his campaign's possible role in Russia's election-related hacking. The president has directed some of his frustration at Rosenstein and Mueller. Sen. Marco Rubio said Sunday that he does not expect Trump to seek to fire them. "I don't believe it's going to happen," said Rubio on CNN's "State of the Union." ''The best thing that could happen for the president, and the country, is a full and credible investigation." Trump is under pressure to reveal whether he has any tape recordings of private conversations with Comey. Rep. Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House intelligence committee, said that the panel  overseeing one of several congressional investigations  is looking forward to getting a response from the White House on whether recordings exist. The president suggested on Twitter that he may have taped those conversations. Schiff said he wants the White House to acknowledge the tapes or make clear there are no tapes and "it was an idle threat." The committee sent a bipartisan letter this month to White House counsel Don McGahn seeking an answer by this Friday. It also sent a letter to Comey asking for any notes or memos. Schiff said if the panel can't get an answer then he believes a subpoena will be needed. Schiff also said he believes recent congressional testimony from Comey and Attorney General Jeff Sessions points to signs of possible obstruction by Trump that warrant further investigation. Schiff cited the fact that the president at one meeting "cleared the room" of advisers and asked to speak to Comey alone. Comey testified to Congress that Trump then asked him to back off the investigation into his fired national security adviser, Michael Flynn. "That signifies this president knew all too well that it was inappropriate," Schiff said. And Senate intelligence committee member Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, stressed that the probe will likely last for a long time. King said the "collusion, the cooperation aspect of the investigation is not over." He added: "A lot of people have said, 'When do you think you'll be done?' Maybe the end of the year. This is a very complex matter, involving thousands of pages of intelligence documents, lots of witnesses. There's a lot of information yet to go." While aides have advised Trump to stay off Twitter, the president continued to weigh in Sunday as he spent the weekend at Camp David, the government-owned presidential retreat in Maryland. In a two-part tweet posted before 7 a.m., Trump wrote: "The MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN agenda is doing very well despite the distraction of the Witch Hunt." Sekulow appeared on NBC's "Meet the Press," CNN's "State of the Union," CBS's "Face the Nation" and "Fox News Sunday" on Fox. Rubio spoke on NBC, CNN and CBS. Schiff spoke on ABC's "This Week"and King spoke on NBC.
By Associated Press

LONDON: The new exterior cladding used in a renovation on London's Grenfell Tower may have been banned under UK building regulations, two British ministers said as police continued their criminal investigation into the inferno that killed at least 58 people.

Trade Minister Greg Hands yesterday said the government is carrying out an "urgent inspection" of the roughly 2,500 similar tower blocks across Britain to assess their safety, while an opposition lawmaker urged the government to quickly secure documents in the Grenfell renovation for the criminal probe.

Late yesterday, the Metropolitan Police released three photos from inside Grenfell Tower, which showed in close detail how the fire charred the 24-story building that once housed up to 600 people in 120 apartments.

Experts believe the building's new exterior cladding, which contained insulation, helped spread the flames quickly up the outside of the public housing tower early Wednesday.

Some said they had never seen a building fire advance so quickly. Hands and Treasury chief Philip Hammond said in separate TV appearances that the cladding used on Grenfell seems to be prohibited by British regulations.

Hands cautioned that officials don't yet have exact details about the renovation that ended just last year. "My understanding is that the cladding that was reported wasn't in accordance with UK building regulations," Hands told Sky News. "We need to find out precisely what cladding was used and how it was attached."

Aluminum cladding with insulation sandwiched between two panels has been blamed for helping to spread flames in major fires in many parts of the world, including blazes in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the United States.

Labour Party lawmaker David Lammy demanded that the government and police immediately seize all documents relating to Grenfell's renovation to prevent the destruction of evidence that could show criminal wrongdoing. "The prime minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law," Lammy said, suggesting that contractors might be destroying evidence before it is sought by police.

He said all records -- including emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence with contractors, safety assessments, specifications and reports -- must be kept intact. "When the truth comes out about this tragedy, we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations," Lammy said.

He complained bitterly that a friend -- the young artist Khadija Saye -- was still alive three hours after the fire started but was unable to get out of her apartment to safety. Police Commander Stuart Cundy says police will seek criminal prosecutions if the evidence warrants.

He has not provided details about the inquiry. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said yesterday after attending a church service several blocks from the tower that the fatal blaze was entirely preventable.

He said displaced residents are "angry not simply at the poor response in the days afterwards from the council and the government, but the years of neglect from the council and successive governments."

They feel they have been ignored because they are poor, he said. British officials have announced a nationwide minute of silence to honour the victims today morning.

LONDON: The new exterior cladding used in a renovation on London's Grenfell Tower may have been banned under UK building regulations, two British ministers said as police continued their criminal investigation into the inferno that killed at least 58 people. Trade Minister Greg Hands yesterday said the government is carrying out an "urgent inspection" of the roughly 2,500 similar tower blocks across Britain to assess their safety, while an opposition lawmaker urged the government to quickly secure documents in the Grenfell renovation for the criminal probe. Late yesterday, the Metropolitan Police released three photos from inside Grenfell Tower, which showed in close detail how the fire charred the 24-story building that once housed up to 600 people in 120 apartments. Experts believe the building's new exterior cladding, which contained insulation, helped spread the flames quickly up the outside of the public housing tower early Wednesday. Some said they had never seen a building fire advance so quickly. Hands and Treasury chief Philip Hammond said in separate TV appearances that the cladding used on Grenfell seems to be prohibited by British regulations. Hands cautioned that officials don't yet have exact details about the renovation that ended just last year. "My understanding is that the cladding that was reported wasn't in accordance with UK building regulations," Hands told Sky News. "We need to find out precisely what cladding was used and how it was attached." Aluminum cladding with insulation sandwiched between two panels has been blamed for helping to spread flames in major fires in many parts of the world, including blazes in the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the United States. Labour Party lawmaker David Lammy demanded that the government and police immediately seize all documents relating to Grenfell's renovation to prevent the destruction of evidence that could show criminal wrongdoing. "The prime minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law," Lammy said, suggesting that contractors might be destroying evidence before it is sought by police. He said all records -- including emails, minutes of meetings, correspondence with contractors, safety assessments, specifications and reports -- must be kept intact. "When the truth comes out about this tragedy, we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations," Lammy said. He complained bitterly that a friend -- the young artist Khadija Saye -- was still alive three hours after the fire started but was unable to get out of her apartment to safety. Police Commander Stuart Cundy says police will seek criminal prosecutions if the evidence warrants. He has not provided details about the inquiry. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said yesterday after attending a church service several blocks from the tower that the fatal blaze was entirely preventable. He said displaced residents are "angry not simply at the poor response in the days afterwards from the council and the government, but the years of neglect from the council and successive governments." They feel they have been ignored because they are poor, he said. British officials have announced a nationwide minute of silence to honour the victims today morning.
By AFP

WASHINGTON: Democrats furious with Republican secrecy planned to bring Senate business to a halt Monday night to protest President Donald Trump's party crafting a back-room Obamacare repeal plan and refusing to hold public hearings about it.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he wants to pass the legislation by June 30. Democrats fear he is purposely keeping the bill under wraps until the last minute, when he can try to jam the controversial plan through with just a few hours of floor debate.

The strategy is a 180-degree shift from the Republican position during the 2009-2010 debate on Barack Obama's health care reforms, when the party demanded transparency at every step of the extended process.

In the six weeks since the House of Representatives passed its Obamacare repeal legislation, Senate Republicans have insisted they will craft their own bill, but few details have emerged.

Democrats planned a series of steps Monday night to gum up Senate procedure.

According to a senior Senate Democratic aide, lawmakers will object to Republican unanimous consent requests and debate health care "late into the evening" through a series of speeches.

"Republicans are drafting this bill in secret because they're ashamed of it, plain and simple," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

The tactics are aimed at helping "shine a light on this shameful Trumpcare bill" and reveal Republican intentions to give wealthy Americans tax breaks while making middle class Americans pay more for insurance, he said.

Even though McConnell has sought to downplay the closed-door nature of the negotiations, few Republicans appear to know exactly what will be in the legislation -- and some have begun speaking out against the strategy.

Senate Republican Marco Rubio said he hoped there would be "plenty of time for debate and analysis" on such a crucial bill.

"If it is an effort to rush it from a small group of people, straight to the floor in an up or down vote, that would be a problem," the senator from Florida told CNN on Sunday.

Republicans have signaled one of the main internal debates focuses on reforms to Medicaid, the health care program for individuals and families with limited resources that Obamacare expanded.

The Senate version is expected to end the Medicaid expansion more slowly than the House bill would, and it could include larger tax credits to help older Americans purchase health insurance.

White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters Monday that "we feel very good about the progress that's happening."

But when asked directly whether White House legislative aides have seen a draft, Spicer said: "I don't know. I've not asked that question."

WASHINGTON: Democrats furious with Republican secrecy planned to bring Senate business to a halt Monday night to protest President Donald Trump's party crafting a back-room Obamacare repeal plan and refusing to hold public hearings about it. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he wants to pass the legislation by June 30. Democrats fear he is purposely keeping the bill under wraps until the last minute, when he can try to jam the controversial plan through with just a few hours of floor debate. The strategy is a 180-degree shift from the Republican position during the 2009-2010 debate on Barack Obama's health care reforms, when the party demanded transparency at every step of the extended process. In the six weeks since the House of Representatives passed its Obamacare repeal legislation, Senate Republicans have insisted they will craft their own bill, but few details have emerged. Democrats planned a series of steps Monday night to gum up Senate procedure. According to a senior Senate Democratic aide, lawmakers will object to Republican unanimous consent requests and debate health care "late into the evening" through a series of speeches. "Republicans are drafting this bill in secret because they're ashamed of it, plain and simple," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. The tactics are aimed at helping "shine a light on this shameful Trumpcare bill" and reveal Republican intentions to give wealthy Americans tax breaks while making middle class Americans pay more for insurance, he said. Even though McConnell has sought to downplay the closed-door nature of the negotiations, few Republicans appear to know exactly what will be in the legislation -- and some have begun speaking out against the strategy. Senate Republican Marco Rubio said he hoped there would be "plenty of time for debate and analysis" on such a crucial bill. "If it is an effort to rush it from a small group of people, straight to the floor in an up or down vote, that would be a problem," the senator from Florida told CNN on Sunday. Republicans have signaled one of the main internal debates focuses on reforms to Medicaid, the health care program for individuals and families with limited resources that Obamacare expanded. The Senate version is expected to end the Medicaid expansion more slowly than the House bill would, and it could include larger tax credits to help older Americans purchase health insurance. White House spokesman Sean Spicer told reporters Monday that "we feel very good about the progress that's happening." But when asked directly whether White House legislative aides have seen a draft, Spicer said: "I don't know. I've not asked that question."
By AFP

CHICAGO: Otto Warmbier, the US student released by North Korea in a coma last week after more than a year in detention, has died, his family said Monday.

The 22-year-old, who had suffered severe brain damage, was medically evacuated to the United States on June 13. He died Monday at 2:20 pm (1820 GMT), surrounded by relatives in his home town of Cincinnati, Ohio.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home," his family said in a statement.

"The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible," they added.

Pyongyang said that Warmbier fell into a coma soon after he was sentenced in March of last year for stealing a political poster from a North Korean hotel. The regime claimed the young man fell into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill.

Doctors treating Warmbier said he had suffered extensive tissue loss in all regions of his brain, but showed no signs of physical trauma. Medical tests offered no conclusive evidence as to the cause of his neurological injuries, and no evidence of a prior botulism infection.

They said Warmbier's severe brain injury was most likely -- given his young age -- to have been caused by cardiopulmonary arrest cutting the blood supply to the brain.

Warmbier's father, Fred, lashed out at Kim Jong-Un's authoritarian state last week, telling a news conference, "there is no excuse for any civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and denied him top-notch medical care for so long."

In their statement Monday, Otto's family said they believed he had found a peace of sorts after being flown home.

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable -- almost anguished," they said.

"Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that," they added.

"We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. We are at peace and at home too."

The university student, who had been on a tourist trip, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor, a punishment the US decried as far out of proportion to his alleged crime, accusing the North of using him as a political pawn.

President Donald Trump had urged the nation to pray for Otto Warmbier, describing his ordeal as a "truly terrible thing."

Warmbier's release came amid mounting tensions with Washington following a series of missile tests by Pyongyang, focusing attention on an arms buildup that Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has dubbed "a clear and present danger to all."

CHICAGO: Otto Warmbier, the US student released by North Korea in a coma last week after more than a year in detention, has died, his family said Monday. The 22-year-old, who had suffered severe brain damage, was medically evacuated to the United States on June 13. He died Monday at 2:20 pm (1820 GMT), surrounded by relatives in his home town of Cincinnati, Ohio. "It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home," his family said in a statement. "The awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible," they added. Pyongyang said that Warmbier fell into a coma soon after he was sentenced in March of last year for stealing a political poster from a North Korean hotel. The regime claimed the young man fell into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill. Doctors treating Warmbier said he had suffered extensive tissue loss in all regions of his brain, but showed no signs of physical trauma. Medical tests offered no conclusive evidence as to the cause of his neurological injuries, and no evidence of a prior botulism infection. They said Warmbier's severe brain injury was most likely -- given his young age -- to have been caused by cardiopulmonary arrest cutting the blood supply to the brain. Warmbier's father, Fred, lashed out at Kim Jong-Un's authoritarian state last week, telling a news conference, "there is no excuse for any civilized nation to have kept his condition secret and denied him top-notch medical care for so long." In their statement Monday, Otto's family said they believed he had found a peace of sorts after being flown home. "When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands. He looked very uncomfortable -- almost anguished," they said. "Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that," they added. "We thank everyone around the world who has kept him and our family in their thoughts and prayers. We are at peace and at home too." The university student, who had been on a tourist trip, was sentenced to 15 years hard labor, a punishment the US decried as far out of proportion to his alleged crime, accusing the North of using him as a political pawn. President Donald Trump had urged the nation to pray for Otto Warmbier, describing his ordeal as a "truly terrible thing." Warmbier's release came amid mounting tensions with Washington following a series of missile tests by Pyongyang, focusing attention on an arms buildup that Pentagon chief Jim Mattis has dubbed "a clear and present danger to all."
Championship game berths on the line for Island football teams

The stakes dont get much higher for the Portsmouth, Middletown and Rogers high school football teams this weekend.
Doctors at The Ohio State University Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital are testing a high-tech vest which measures fluid inside the lungs from outside a person's clothing. It could be a new way to prevent repeated trips to the hospital for the nearly six million Americans living with heart failure.

The SensiVest, created by Sensible Medical, uses radar technology that was first used by the military and rescue teams to see through walls and rubble in collapsed buildings.

"Now the technology has been miniaturized and put into a form that allows the radar to go through the chest wall and get an accurate measurement of water inside the lungs," said Dr. William Abraham, director of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. "With heart failure, the heart isn't strong enough to keep up with the body's needs and fluid stays in the lungs. Too much fluid makes it hard to breathe."

Until now, cardiologists haven't had a non-invasive way to proactively monitor for fluid changes. The standard has been to rely on patients weighing themselves daily and reporting symptoms such as swelling or shortness of breath. By then, it could be serious enough to require treatment in the hospital.

"We've learned these methods don't catch the disease progression early enough, and that's why hospitalization and re-hospitalization rates for heart failure have changed very little in the last 20 to 30 years," Abraham said.

So doctors are testing the vest in a national, randomized clinical trial to see if it effectively monitors and manages lung fluid, reduces hospitalizations and improves quality of life. Abraham leads the trial that includes approximately 40 sites across the country.

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All patients enrolled in the trial receive the highest standard of care for heart failure. Those randomized to the treatment group will also use the lung fluid monitor at home to take daily readings. The vest is worn over clothing and a reading takes approximately 90 seconds. The data is uploaded to a secure server where the patient's cardiologist or nurse can review it.

"We can use that data to see when the lungs are trending towards being too wet and make adjustments to the medication on an outpatient basis or over the phone," said Dr. Rami Kahwash, director of the Heart and Vascular Research Organization and site leader for the trial at Ohio State. "The goal is to keep the patient within a normal range, feeling well and out of the hospital."

A previous, small observational study compared hospitalizations before and after using the vest. That study showed an 87 percent reduction in heart failure hospitalizations with vest lung fluid monitoring.

Kenny McIntyre, 59, of Columbus, has been hospitalized twice in the three months since he was diagnosed with heart failure. He recently joined the trial and says the vest is easy to use.

"I'm the type that, unless something hurts me, I don't want to go to a doctor," McIntyre said. "I just put the vest on, lay back, hit a button, and let it take my measurements. Every now and then they alter my medications."

Patients in the trial will be followed for up to nine months.
Researchers at VIB, KU Leuven, and UZ Leuven, in collaboration with researchers at the University of Jena, have demonstrated that measuring neurofilaments provides reliable confirmation of an ALS diagnosis. This diagnostic test represents a significant step forward because valuable time is still lost at present in diagnosing ALS. Diagnosis takes an average of one year from the first symptoms. The researchers hope that these tests will allow treatment to be started sooner.

ALS, a diagnosis feared by patients and doctors alike

Wednesday 21 June is World ALS Day. It is a day to stop and consider amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS for short. This neurodegenerative disease causes the death of motor neurons, the nerve cells controlling the muscles. The result is a loss of strength which spreads throughout the body. Besides the muscles in the limbs, it also affects the muscles used for swallowing, breathing, and speaking. The average survival rate after the onset of the first symptoms is just 2 to 5 years. ALS is relatively rare; about 400 people a year are diagnosed with the condition in Belgium.

As Prof. Philip Van Damme (VIB-KU Leuven, UZ Leuven) tells us: "Despite the severity of the disease, an ALS diagnosis relies heavily on the physician's clinical acuity. The typical disease progression of ALS, with the loss of strength extending from one body region to another, allows a definite diagnosis. In the early stages of the disease, diagnosis is difficult. Consequently the average time between the first symptoms and diagnosis is approximately one year. Better tests are needed for a faster ALS diagnosis, which we hope to achieve with this test."

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Neurofilaments can help to diagnose ALS

Neurofilaments are structural proteins in the cytoskeleton, which are present in high concentrations in motor neurons. It has been known for a long time that the lumbar fluid in ALS patients contains a higher concentration of neurofilaments, perhaps because they are released from sick motor neurons. Researchers led by Prof. Koen Poesen (Laboratory of Medicine, UZ Leuven, and the Laboratory for Molecular Neurobiomarker Research, KU Leuven) and Prof. Philip Van Damme (Neurology UZ Leuven, and VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain Research) have carried out detailed research into this phenomenon.

Prof. Koen Poesen (UZ Leuven, KU Leuven): "We have demonstrated that a certain type of neurofilament (pNfH, phosphorylated neurofilament heavy) in particular increases sharply in the lumbar fluid of ALS patients. This is even true when compared to patients presenting loss of strength symptoms due to other conditions (known as ALS mimics). The test meets all the requirements for use as a reliable diagnostic test. However, it requires an epidural because we can still only reliably measure the neurofilaments in the lumbar fluid."

The researchers have also demonstrated that there is a good correlation between the degree of neurofilament increase and the extent of the motor neuron loss. This indicates that the test reflects the underlying disease process. Whether the implementation of the test will also lead to a shorter time before diagnosis is currently still being researched.
Each minute increases the chance of survival by 10%

A novel smartphone application (app) has been developed that can direct first responders to cardiac arrest victims more than three minutes before the emergency services arrive. Each minute increases the chance of survival by 10%.

The EHRA First Responder App was created by the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), a registered branch of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).

"Sudden cardiac arrest is lethal within minutes if left untreated," said EHRA spokesperson Dr Christian Elsner. "In Europe, the emergency services arrive around nine minutes after a cardiac arrest. Every minute earlier raises the probability of survival by 10% and reduces the risk of brain injury, which starts four minutes after cardiac arrest."

If cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is initiated by a member of the public, this will in essence shorten the time between cardiac arrest and the urgently needed resuscitation measures. However, bystander resuscitation occurs in just of 30-60% of patients who have a cardiac arrest outside hospital.

The EHRA First Responder App was developed to increase the rate of bystander resuscitation and reduce the time between cardiac arrest and resuscitation. Based on GPS tracking technology, the app is used by existing emergency services (reached in many countries by dialling 112) to locate trained "app rescuers" and then automatically direct them to the scene of cardiac arrest. The target is for an app rescuer to arrive three to four minutes after the cardiac arrest.

In a typical scenario, after the cardiac arrest a bystander calls the emergency services. The operator dispatches an emergency crew and simultaneously locates nearby app rescuers. The nearest app rescuers are notified on their smartphones and the quickest responder is given directions, via the app, to the patient and then performs CPR. Other app rescuers can then additionally bring a nearby automated external defibrillator (AED).

The app was tested in Lubeck, Germany, where around 600 app rescuers were recruited. In 36% of cardiac arrests an app rescuer arrived more than three minutes before the emergency services. App rescuers were recruited through a local media campaign and 70% were already medically trained. The 30% without medical training took a basic life support course and committed to retaking it every two years.

"Recruitment of the app rescuers was no problem at all because people want to help," said Dr Elsner.

Project organizers are now asking emergency dispatch units (fire departments and hospitals) across Germany to connect to the app so that they have free access to the fleet of app rescuers.

"The software has a standard interface and can be easily connected to most emergency alert systems in Europe in just a few steps," said Dr Elsner. "We provide insurance for app users and we have a guarantee of data security from the German Department for Data Security in Schleswig-Holstein."

Dr Elsner concluded: "Ultimately we will roll the app out across Europe. We hope to raise bystander resuscitation rates to 70-90% and for cardiac arrest patients to be resuscitated in three to four minutes on average."
The Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) provides advice, information, and recommendations for dealing with the dreaded illness in the United States. PACHA was formed in 1995 under the Clinton administration. PACHA was a follow up of President Ronald Reagans 1987 Presidents Commission on the HIV Epidemic and 1988s National Commission on AIDS. The legacy was maintained by the President Barack Obama where a new national strategy was developed. This could effectively reduce infections, improve the accessibility to health care, reduce inequalities in health accessibility and consolidate national efforts in bringing down the numbers.

Last Friday, 16th of June 2017, six members of the council resigned. They cited lack of concern of the present government as their reason for resigning from their position.

The resignation letter was drafted by Scott Schoettes. He was soon joined by five other members namely - Lucy Bradley-Springer, Gina Brown, Ulysses Burley III, Michelle Ogle, and Grissel Granados in resigning from their posts. According to the letter of resignation, President Donald Trumps administration has not been taking any steps to devise a sound strategy to combat HIV/AIDS that affects thousands each year. The letter says that one of the most concerning things is that the present government pushes legislation that will harm people living with HIV. It will also stop or reverse the progress that has already been made in fighting this dreaded illness they fear.

According to Schoettes, the commission met with Secretary Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders before the new President was elected but never actually meet President Donald Trump before the elections. He mentioned that the website for the Office of National AIDS policy has been taken down after Trump assumed office and is not yet in place. The President, he noted has not yet named a head of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy. This policy was formed in 2010 as a part of the White House Domestic Policy Council of Obama. This policy ensured greater awareness and improved care he said.

The letter also mentioned that the administration is bent upon reversing the Affordable Care Act. ACA is proposed to be replaced by the American Health Care Act and the letter says that this would be particularly devastating for people living with HIV. It would particularly affect homosexual populations and also affect non-HIV homosexual and bisexual men and transgender women who need insurance for medications and supplies for preventing exposure and contracting HIV/AIDS.

The members who resigned said that they could be more effective from the outside and would keep advocating the measures to reform the healthcare facilities and systems in order to provide better care to those afflicted with this disease.

Schoettes is not only counsel for PACHA but is also HIV Project Director at the pioneering LGBTQ legal group Lambda Legal. PACHA, advises the Secretary of Health & Human Services. At present this position is held by Tom Price who has been known to be anti-LGBTQ agenda.
Britain's biggest carmaker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) will hire 5,000 staff as it boosts its skills in autonomous and electric technology, a welcome business endorsement as Prime Minister Theresa May starts Brexit talks after a botched election.JLR, which employs more than 40,000 people globally, said it would hire 1,000 electronic and software engineers as well as 4,000 additional personnel including in manufacturing, most of whom will be based in Britain.The recruitment process will take place over the next 12 months, just as Britain begins talks to leave the European Union, which carmakers have warned must result in a deal which retains free and unfettered trade to protect jobs.The carmaker, which is owned by Tata Motors, will build its first electric vehicle, the I-PACE, in Austria but has said it wants to build such models in Britain if conditions such as support from government and academia are met.Automakers are racing to produce greener cars and improve charge times in a bid to meet rising customer demand and fulfil air quality targets but Britain lacks sufficient manufacturing capacity, an area ministers have said they want to build up.JLR, which builds just under a third of Britain's 1.7 million cars, has said half of all its new models will be available in an electric version by the end of the decade, requiring new skills among its staff.Sunday's announcement comes as May is still trying to seal a deal with Northern Ireland's Democratic Unionist Party to support her government a week and a half after unexpectedly failing to win an outright majority at a national election.The news is a welcome bright spot as the prospect of greater political uncertainty before Monday's start to Brexit talks has seen business confidence tumble in recent days, according to surveys and business groups.
Snapping their heads from side to side, marching into the roads in close-fitting blue uniforms and black heels, the "traffic ladies" who marshal vehicles at the intersections of Pyongyang are an emblematic image of the North Korean capital.



Officially known as traffic security officers but universally referred to as traffic ladies, they are chosen for their looks in a society that remains traditionalist in many respects.



They must leave the role if they marry, and have a finite shelf-life, with compulsory retirement looming at just 26.



The 300-odd ladies are unique to Pyongyang, which North Korean authorities are always keen to present in the best possible light despite their nuclear-armed country's impoverished status, and ensure a steady supply of photogenic young women who are the favourite subject of visiting tourists and journalists.



"They are representing the capital city," explained a senior officer of the ministry of public security, which supervises traffic regulation. "That's why they are selected based on their appearance and physique."



No age limit applies to their roughly 400 male counterparts - who tend to be stationed at roundabouts.



The rules were because "normally, the women in our country marry at the age of 26 or 27", explained the officer, who did not want to be named. "Because the role is tough and difficult, they can only do the job when they are single."



The traffic ladies were originally introduced in the 1980s, when vehicles were a rarity on the streets of Pyongyang and remained so for decades, giving rise to the surreal sight of them directing - with precision and energy - non-existent cars on wide but deserted boulevards.



As part of North Korea's security forces they hold officer ranks, and Senior Captain Ri Myong-Sim, 24, said: "I have to carry out each and every action with discipline and spirit."



A seven-year veteran, she cuts an imposing presence in her high-peaked cap and white gloves.



Her "tough training" had involved "exhausting repetition" of the moves, she told AFP.



"But every time I felt that the thing that kept me going and drove me was the thought that our leader, who cares for only the happiness of our people all year long, was watching us work," she said, standing ramrod-straight at the Changjon crossroads in central Pyongyang.



"So I could practice throughout the night and keep going on the next day without feeling tired at all."



Ordinary North Koreans normally only express officially approved sentiments when questioned by foreign media.



An obelisk down the road proclaimed: "The Great President Kim Il-Sung and the Great Leader Kim Jong-Il will always be with us."



Vehicle numbers have increased in the capital in recent years as authorities quietly liberalise the economy, leading to growth despite United Nations sanctions imposed over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programmes, although the North keeps most statistics secret and precise figures are not available.



Traffic lights have been introduced at most intersections, but the ladies - who say they work an hour on, an hour off, although their feet can still get sore - have no fear of their blue uniforms being replaced by red, amber and green.



The lights "help the humans do their jobs more easily", said Ri.



Their kit includes thick cotton coats for winter - when their breath condenses instantly in the bitter cold - flashing orange halters for night work and sunscreen.



"The great leader shows them endless care and love," the ministry official said. "That's why they do their best in their efforts, to repay the great love of the great presidents and Dear Respected Marshal Kim Jong-Un."



The traffic ladies are "second to none" as a photo subject for tourists visiting Pyongyang, said Simon Cockerell, general manager of specialist travel agency Koryo Tours, who has been leading trips to North Korea for more than 15 years.



"They appear to have the dual function of directing traffic and brightening up the streets of the capital," he said.



"I don't believe there has been a tourist who has visited Pyongyang and not taken a photo of a traffic lady."



"I think it would be no exaggeration to call them iconic," he added - although they were "somewhat objectified" by visitors.



With retirement ahead, Senior Captain Ri is taking a training course to become a teacher.



But she let the facade of discipline slip when asked if the focus was annoying.



"We are so concentrated on doing our jobs we rarely notice the attention," she giggled.
Abu Salem, convicted for his role in the deadly 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, now awaits a reply by India in a European Union court he had approached three months ago.In his petition, the gangster had sought his return to Portugal from where he was extradited to India to face the trial. He has contended that after a Portugal court terminated the 2014 order for his extradition, his entire trial in India has become illegal.Salems extradition treaty had stated that he will not be given death sentence and will not be given imprisonment of more than 25 years. Salem had moved a Portugal court soon after he was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Mumbai-based builder Pradeep Jain. The local court in Portugal had upheld his appeal, following which the matter went to the countrys supreme court. The case is still pending there."After the petition was filed, notices were issued to the Portugal government and to the Indian government. The Portugal government has already filed a reply. Some additional documents are yet to be submitted. The Indian government is yet to file its reply," Sudeep Pasbola, one of the lawyers representing Salem, told CNN-News18.His lawyers had said despite termination of the extradition, Portugal has not taken any steps to call him back.In May, the ECHR had also sought some documents of the 1993 Mumbai serial terror blasts case.In his application, Salem had also given details of two attempts on his life  one in 2010 by co-accused in 1993 blasts case Mustafa Dossa and a second one by another prisoner.Salem further contended that he is being tried for those charges which were not mentioned in the treaty.He said that in Taloja jail, he is being kept in a solitary confinement which is prohibited by ECHR.Salem was convicted by a special TADA court in Mumbai last week for transporting weapons from Gujarat to Mumbai ahead of the 1993 blasts which killed 257 people. He had also handed over to Sanjay Dutt AK-56 rifles, 250 rounds and some hand grenades at his residence on January 16, 1993. Two days later on January 18, 1993 Salem and two others went to Dutt's house and got back two rifles and some rounds.The court had dropped certain charges against Salem in 2013 after the CBI moved a plea, saying those charges were against the extradition treaty between India and Portugal.Justice (retired) PD Kode, however, told CNN-News18 that nothing stops the TADA court from awarding the death penalty to Abu Salem, not even the assurances given to Portugal.The hearing on the quantum of punishment will be held on June 19.
: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced total waiver of entire crop loans for small and marginal farmers in Punjab.The loan waiver will for up to Rs 2 lakh for small and marginal farmers (up to 5 acres) and a flat Rs 2 lakh relief for all other marginal farmers, irrespective of their loan amount, thus paving the way for eventual total waiver of agricultural debts to implement another major poll promise of the ruling party.Making the announcements during his speech in the Punjab assembly, the Chief Minister said the move would benefit a total of 10.25 lakh farmers of the state's 18.5 lakh farming families, including 8.75 lakh farmers having land up to 5 acres."The initiative would provide double the relief announced by the states of Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra," Amarinder pointed out.The decision is based on the interim report of an expert group, headed by eminent economist Dr T. Haque, which was tasked with suggesting ways and means to help the state's distressed farming community.Making it clear that his government stood by its commitment to waive off the crop loans of the farmers, Amarinder said his government had also additionally decided to take over the outstanding crop loan from institutional sources of all the families of farmers who committed suicide in the state.It has also decided to raise the ex-gratia for families of farmers committing suicide to Rs 5 lakh from the existing Rs 3 lakh.For debt relief to farmers for loans raised from non-institutional resources, the government has decided to review the 'Punjab Settlement of Agriculture Indebtedness Act' to provide the desired relief to the farmers through mutually acceptable debt reconciliation and settlement, which shall be statutorily binding on both the parties, the lender and the borrower."The government has already constituted a Cabinet Sub Committee to review this Act," Amarinder added.The Chief Minister proposed that the Speaker may constitute a 5-member committee of the Vidhan Sabha to visit families of the suicide victims, ascertain the reasons for suicides and suggest further steps to be taken to check the menace.He also told the assembly that his government had already decided to repeal Section 67 A of the Punjab Cooperative Societies Act, 1961, which provides for auction (kurki) of farmers' land.Also asserting that his government's is committed to provide free power to farmers, he however, appealed to all big and well-to-do farmers of the state to give up power subsidy voluntarily.Amarinder announced his decision to immediately give up the subsidy at his own farms to set a personal example, and appealed to his colleagues to do the same.
Violent protest won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation: Mamata Banerjee,West Bengal CM #DarjeelingUnrest pic.twitter.com/rBWrjdpQ3o  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

West Bengal Chief Minster Mamata Banerjee left for a two-day visit to the Netherlands on Monday to address a United Nations meet, saying her ministers were monitoring the situation in violence-hit Darjeeling.Violent protests wont be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation, she told ANI at Kolkata airport.Mamata will be in The Hague to attend the UN Public Service Day celebrations on June 22 and 23. A source in the government said this is first time an Indian CM has been invited to the event. This is a matter of pride for us and for Bengal, he said.The Hills have been on the boil since June 12 when an indefinite bandh called by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha came into effect. The bandh turned violent with GJM supporters torching buildings and taking out protests against the midnight arrest of party media manager Vikram Rai. Rai is the son of GJMs Darjeeling MLA Amar Rai.Fresh clashes erupted on June 17 with GJM protesters stabbing an officer of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) who was said to be critical.Tensions were fuelled when GJM leader Vinay Tamang, a close aide of party chief Bimal Gurung, claimed that two Morcha supporters had died in police firing. Tamang demanded a high-level judicial inquiry into the deaths.West Bengal ADG (Law and Order) Anuj Sharma had refuted the charges, saying the police did not fire at GJM supporters. There was no firing from our side. We will investigate how the two people were killed  if at all  as alleged by the GJM, Sharma had said.Commending on Mamatas visit to The Hague, a Trinamool Congress spokesperson said: It was a scheduled commitment to the United Nations. She is monitoring the situation.Banerjees Trinamool Congress is locked in a fierce battle for the Hills with the Bimal Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha which wants a separate state of Gorkhaland.
Melbourne: Indians will now be able to visit Australia more conveniently after the government announced a online visitor visa facility from July 1 to cash in on the rising popularity of the country as a holiday destination.



In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indians.



According to the DIBP, with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, there has been a significant rise in demand for Australian visas in India.



Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Alex Hawke said the online application option would make applying for Australian visitor visas easier and ultimately enhance the visitor experience for Indian citizens.



"Indian nationals wishing to visit Australia will soon be able to apply for a visitor visa in a more convenient and accessible manner," Hawke said.



"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," he said.



The move comes amid hundreds of complaints from Indians wishing to travel to Australia and facing inordinate delays in

obtaining visitor visas.



Online lodging will offer benefits such as accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the department's ImmiAccount portal.



Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible.
Kolkata: When Narendra Modi was sworn in as the Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014, he didnt forget to keep an auspicious flower, sent by Swami Atmasthanandaji as his blessing, in his off-white sleeveless coats pocket.



Swami Atmasthanandaji - President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission - died on Sunday at around 5:30 pm at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan Hospital, Kolkata.



He was 98 and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan hospital on February 21, 2015, due to old-age ailments. His condition worsened over the last few days.



Among many, PM Modi termed his demise as a personal loss because at the age of nearly sixteen he (Narendra Modi) came to Ram Krishna Mission in Belur Math in Howrah district to become a monk.



The demise of Swami Atmasthananda Ji is a personal loss for me. I lived with him during a very important period of my life. Swami Atmasthananda ji was blessed with immense knowledge and wisdom. Generations will remember his exemplary personality. Whenever I would visit Kolkata, I would always make it a point to seek the blessings of Swami Atmasthananda Ji. As President of Ramakrishna Mission set up by Swami Vivekananda, Swami Atmasthananda ji worked tirelessly and spread its influence globally, PM Modi's tweets read.



Speaking to News18.com, Swami Suviranandaji, General Secretary of Ram Krishna Mission, Belur Math, said, In the early 60s, he (Narendra Modi) came and met Swami Atmasthanandaji and expressed his desire to become a sadhu. Swami ji was quite impressed but equally surprised to see someone so young approaching him to join the Order.



After giving a patient hearing to that young boy (now Prime Minister of India), Atmasthanandaji told him that he is meant for something else to serve the people, he said.



Since then - even before becoming the Prime Minister of India - Modi holds Swami Atmasthanadji in high esteem.



Narendra Modi used to treat him as his guru. When both of them were in Rajkot, Modi used to go to him to seek guidance, he said, recalling Swamiji fondly used to call him Norendro.



Swamijis cremation will take place at Belur Math on Monday at around 9.30 PM. He was born in May 1919 at Sabajpur near Dhaka. He received mantra diksha from Swami Vijnananandaji Maharaj (a monastic disciple of Sri Ramakrishna) in 1938 and joined the Ramakrishna Order at Belur Math on January 3, 1941, aged 22 years.



In 1945, Swami Virajanandaji Maharaj, the sixth President of the Order, gave him Brahmacharya vows, and in 1949, Sannyasa vows and the name Swami Atmasthananda.



He spent several years in his holy company in the solitude of Shyamla Tal in the Himalayas. In 1952, he was posted to Ranchi TB Sanatorium branch as an Assistant Secretary.



He was sent to Rangoon (Yangon) Sevashrama as its Secretary in 1958. He developed the Sevashrama hospital and it soon became the best hospital of Burma (Myanmar) at the time. When military rulers took over Rangoon Sevashrama, he returned to India in 1965.



He was posted to Rajkot branch as its head in 1966. The beautiful temple of Sri Ramakrishna at Rajkot Ashrama was built during his tenure on his initiative.



During his service in Rajkot, once again Narendra Modi met him and got spiritual guidance in Gujarat, Swami Suviranandaji said.

In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Swami Atmasthananda Maharajji. Then, he spent nearly 10 minutes in the hospital with Maharaj and touched his feet. Both spoke in Gujarati and asked about each other's well-being during the short exchange, he recalled.


'One Country, Two Systems' proven to be a success in HKSAR: senior Chinese official

(Photo/CGTN)

The "One Country, Two Systems" policy has been a success in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), said Zhang Xiaoming, head of the liaison office of the Central Peoples Government in HKSAR.

He was speaking ahead of the 20th anniversary of Hong Kongs return to China.

Successful implementation of 'One Country, Two Systems'

In an interview with CGTN, Zhang said "One Country, Two Systems" has helped preserve China's national sovereignty and security over the past two decades.

"The 'One Country, Two Systems' was put forward, first, to achieve and safeguard national unity. The central government has effectively administered the Hong Kong SAR for 20 years," he said.

"The moment it returned, Hong Kong was no longer what Chris Patten described as a 'borrowed place, borrowed time.' It is Hong Kong people who shoulder the responsibility of governing Hong Kong. The phrase 'Hong Kong people ruling Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy' has become a reality," Zhang said.

Hong Kong (file photo/Xinhua)

Change and unchanged

"Since Hong Kongs return to the motherland, things that people feared would be changed have remained the same and what has changed are things that should be changed or what people expect," Zhang said.

In the days immediately after the handover, a saying went: "Horses are still racing, people are still dancing, and stocks are still trading." Two decades on, this still holds true in Hong Kong.

"With the premise of the 'One Country, Two Systems,' Hong Kong retains its capitalist system, legal environment, some core values and way of life," he said, adding that the city remains one of the worlds most competitive economies as a key global center of shipping, finance and trade."

Zhang said one of the most important changes lies in Hong Kongs legal status. The HKSAR now enjoys a high degree of autonomy with "Hong Kong people governing Hong Kong" and its residents enjoy unprecedented democratic rights and greater freedom, he said.

"As for changes, Hong Kong witnesses new infrastructure and new look, more progress made in all undertakings, closer connection with the mainland, greater support from national development, as well as improved international influence," Zhang said.

New problems and challenges

Responding to the minority of people in Hong Kong who have been calling for "independence," Zhang said they have seriously challenged the bottom line of the "One Country, Two Systems," violating the Basic Law and other local laws in the HKSAR.

Zhang said there must be zero tolerance for such ideas because they pose a severe threat to national sovereignty and security.

He said he believes Hong Kong people have the wisdom to embrace their tradition of being rational, open and inclusive. He hopes people can avoid internal frictions and realize the "Chinese Dream."

"There will always be rainbow after a storm," the senior official said.
New Delhi: While Bhim Armys Chandrashekhar Azad is lodged in a jail cell for his alleged role in fanning the caste-based Saharanpur riots, his outfit has been demanding his release. On Sunday, Bhim Army hit the streets again, in a massive show of strength, with another demonstration at New Delhis Jantar Mantar. In the absence of the 30-year-old lawyer-turned-activist, Chandrashekhars mother Kamlesh Devi and brothers Bhagat Singh and Kamal Kishor addressed supporters. Kamlesh Devi spoke to News18s Uday Singh Rana. Edited excerpts:



When did Chandrashekhar the lawyer become an activist?

Five years ago, Chandrashekhar was just another lawyer in Dehradun. There was a school in Chutmalpur, our hometown in Saharanpur, where Dalits sent their kids to study. The local Rajputs kicked up a storm about their children studying alongside ours. They would not allow the children to go to school and considered them untouchables. They told the kids to continue doing the work their parents did. The kids, who looked up to Chandrashekhar, came running to him and told them about what was happening. When things did not improve, my son launched an agitation and ensured that the kids got their rights. After this incident, there was an awakening inside him. Soon after, he formed the Bhim Army.



Your son is the activist in the family but this time, even you felt compelled to hit the streets. Why so?

I am in a very difficult position. I had no other option left. If someones son is branded a terrorist and is lodged in jail, what choice does a mother have? Will she not hit the streets?



What are your demands from the UP government?

First of all, the government must ensure that officials do not behave in a partisan way. Secondly, all innocent persons must be released. That includes not only my son but also many innocent young Dalit men from Saharanpur.



But the state government has levelled pretty serious charges against your son. They accused him of rioting.

All allegations are false. There is no truth in them.



You have three sons. Two of them  Chandrashekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh  are named after revolutionary freedom fighters. Was that a conscious decision?

Their father, who was a primary school teacher in Chutmalpur, named them after freedom fighters. He saw discrimination first hand. Dalit teachers were asked to get separate utensils for food and separate lotas (mugs) for water. He named his eldest son Bhagat Singh and his second son Chandrashekhar Azad. These are names of revolutionary freedom fighters. He wanted his sons to bring some change. Today, Chandrashekhar is a Dalit revolutionary. I am proud that my sons, including Kamal Kishor, the youngest, are working for the betterment of Dalits.



But Chandrashekhar went ahead and added Ravan to his name. Why identify with the villain in the Ramayana?

Ravan was someone who was a scholar and was ready to fight for his sisters honour. Chandrashekhar can go to any lengths to protect the honour of his community and yet, he wont do injustice to anybody else.



As a mother, what do you hope for his future?

We were always poor but I made sure my sons never slept on the floor. But today, he is sleeping in a jail cell for the sake of his community. Only a revolutionary can go through so much suffering for his people. As a mother, I am very proud of him.



Do you think he should join politics and fight elections?

No. He has no interest in fighting elections or joining politics. I would also advise him not to join politics. He is doing work for his community and is happy with that work. I am proud of what he does. What is the need to join politics?



A lot of women have been turning up at the Bhim Army protests recently. What is your message to them?

Women have to play a very important role in the movement. Look at me. I am an old lady and have been meeting Chandrashekhars followers wherever I go. I have been speaking so much that my throat has started to hurt. But women have to be equal partners in the movement, especially when the men are in jail. I want to tell all Dalit mothers and sisters that now is the time to hit the streets. The time to tolerate oppression has gone.
Whenever I would visit Kolkata, I would always make it a point to seek the blessings of Swami Atmasthananda ji.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2017

Swami Atmasthananda ji was blessed with immense knowledge & wisdom. Generations will remember his exemplary personality.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2017

: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condoled the demise of the head of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Swami Atmasthananda, terming it as a "personal loss".As a young boy, Modi had visited the Belur Math in Kolkata to join the Order, but his request was turned down and he was told that his calling was elsewhere.Later, he got spiritual guidance from Swami Atmasthananda in Rajkot, Gujarat."The demise of Swami Atmasthananda ji is a personal loss for me. I lived with him during a very important period of my life," Modi wrote on Twitter.He recalled that whenever he visited Kolkata, he made it a point to seek the blessings of the monk."Swami Atmasthananda ji was blessed with immense knowledge & wisdom. Generations will remember his exemplary personality," the prime minister wrote in another tweet.Swami Atmasthananda (98) today passed away at the Ramkrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital in Kolkata.
: The Supreme Court on Monday pulled up Sahara for falling short of paying Rs 709.82 crore as the business house was due to pay Rs 1500 crore by July 5.SC has also informed Sahara chief that it derives no pleasure by sending Subrata Roy to jail, but Sahara needs to pay the remaining deposit by July 4. "Pay up and get away", said SC to Subrata Roy.Today Sahara deposited another Rs 790.18 crore to ensure that Roy is let out on bail at least for now. SC has now warned Subrata Roy that he will be sent back to jail if the company fails to pay the money till July 4.Sahara in the past made several failed attempts to raise the bail money by selling his high prized possessions such as The Plaza hotel in New York and the Grosvenor House in London. Sahara maintains that it has already paid more than 80% of the dues to investors, but Sebi differs and has submitted that more than Rs 10,000 crore remains unpaid.But today, Sahara informed the apex court that it has sold the Grosvenor House at London to GH Equity UK Ltd.The Sahara group told the Supreme Court that the sale has been done to raise money needed to pay off its dues to market regulator Sebi. Kapil Sibal appearing on behalf of the group informed the bench of justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi that the money will be coming within 10 working days.Roy on May 18 did not appear before the SEBI court after filing an exemption application on medical grounds.However, the special SEBI court rejected Roy's plea. The SEBI court was to frame charges in the case against Roy and his three group firms' directors - Ravishankar Dubey, Ashok Roy Choudhary and Vandana Bhargava.On April 21, a SEBI court had cancelled the non-bailable arrest warrants against Roy and three of his group firms' directors after they appeared before it in a case filed by the SEBI against them.On April 17, the Supreme Court ordered the auction of Aamby Valley, Saharas marquee project in Maharashtra, as the company failed to pay Rs 300 crore as the first instalment of Rs 5,000 crore it was ordered to pay for allegedly duping the investors.The court had said that the official liquidator of Bombay High Court will value the property and then proceed with valuation and auction. The apex court has directed Sebi to provide all the necessary details to the official liquidator within 48 hours. The property which is valued at Rs 34,000 crore is spread across 10,600-acre land near Pune.
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Sunday said his government will take up the bill providing 12 per cent reservation to Muslims, passed by the state legislature, with the Centre for its nod.



"When I had a meeting with the Prime Minister, I told him that it was our (TRS') election promise to give 12 per cent reservations to Muslims....the Assembly has already passed resolutions in this regard and it was sent to the Centre. He (PM) asked me to send it and promised to look into it positively," said Rao, speaking at an Iftar gathering organised by the government here this evening.



"We will go to Delhi and take up this matter with the Central government and ensure its success (clearance). Or else, Telangana government will not keep quiet. This (reservation) is our right," he said.



The bill, passed by the Telangana legislature, increases reservations in jobs and education for backward sections of Muslim community to 12 per cent from the earlier four.



Earlier, speaking after laying foundation stone of Rs 20-crore Anees-ul-Gurbha Complex in Nampally area, the chief minister said his government accords utmost importance to education of Muslim children.



The state government has set up 204 residential schools for underprivileged children from the Muslim community which will benefit 1.33 lakh students, he said.



Anees-Ul-Gurbha, a shelter house, is functioning in Hyderabad since 1921. It lost some land in road expansion, so the government allotted it 4,000 square yards of land to compensate the loss and sanctioned Rs 20 crore to construct a new complex, a government release said.
Mumbai: Well-known Bhojpuri actress and model Anjali Shrivastava was found dead at her Andheri West residence, police said here on Monday.



According to police, Anjali's family members from Allahabad had been trying to call her since Sunday night, but she did not respond on her mobile.



Worried about her safety, the family contacted her landlord, who called the police and they entered her home on the fifth floor in Parimal Society on Juhu Road with a duplicate key on Monday afternoon.



They found the 29-year-old actress hanging from the ceiling fan from a sari, presumably having committed suicide.



Police searched her residence but did not find any suicide note or anything suspicious.



Her body has been sent for an autopsy to R. N. Cooper Hospital.



Having worked in several Bhojpuri films, she acted last in the recent action-comedy film, "Kehu Ta Dilme Ba".
And congrats @MsKajalAggarwal on your 10yrs in cinema and on reaching the milestone of 50films!! Proud and honoured to have worked with you.  Rana Daggubati (@RanaDaggubati) June 19, 2017

: Actor Rana Daggubati on Monday said he is proud and honored to have worked with Kajal Aggarwal in upcoming Telugu political drama Nene Raju, Nene Mantri.Kajal turned 32 on Monday."Congrats Kajal Aggarwal on your 10 years in cinema and on reaching the milestone of 50 films. Proud and honoured to have worked with you," Rana tweeted.Nene Raju, Nene Mantri, being directed by Teja, happens to be Kajal's 50th film.She is thrilled to have reunited with her mentor Teja after a decade."It's been a pleasure working with him (Teja) as he encourages me to unlearn the nuances I have picked up over the span of my film career, and to look at my character and this film with a fresh perspective," Kajal told IANS.She also said that the film, which will simultaneously release in Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam, is her best birthday gift.Nene Raju, Nene Mantri, produced by Suresh Daggubati, ACH Bharath Chowdhary and V Kiran Reddy, also stars Catherine Tresa, Navdeep and Ashutosh Rana.
As is their wont, both Shah and Modi lived up to their reputation of springing a surprise while taking key political decisions. But its not difficult to fathom why they zeroed in on yet another non-descript face for an apolitical position to send a political message.

As the BJP parliamentary board sat down on Monday to pick its presidential candidate, a senior party leader watching from the sidelines immediately ruled out two names.Sushma Swaraj and Thawar Chand Gehlot would not have attended the meet, he averred, were they shortlisted by PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.As is their wont, both Shah and Modi lived up to their reputation of springing a surprise while taking key political decisions. But its not difficult to fathom why they zeroed in on yet another non-descript face for an apolitical position to send a political message.In the end, it all boiled down to Uttar Pradesh. After having given many prime ministers to the country, UP would, if Ram Nath Kovind  current Bihar governor-- is elected, be giving India its first President; a Dalit at that.As the meeting progressed, the fact became clearer to all present that uppermost in the minds of BJP and RSS top bosses was Uttar Pradesh in 2019.Kovinds candidature is designed to take the wind out of the Opposition's sails in UP for the next general elections. The BJP, a party source said, is wary of an Opposition mahagatbandhan - comprising Mayawati, Akhilesh and the Congress - happening in UP in 2019 and did not want to leave anything to chance in a state which contributed more than a fifth to its tally of 282 in the present Lok Sabha.In UP, Mayawati's Bahujan Samajwadi Party alone has up to 22% votes. A combined kitty with the Samajwadi Party and Congress has the potential of going over 50%, taking India's most populous state out of the equation in Modi's second bid. So this proposed unity was the one BJP needed to check by wooing away the Dalit votebank.The Dalit outreach comes at a time when the ruling party has been painted as stridently anti-Dalit. From its reactions to the suicide of Hyderabad scholar Rohith Vemula to its lack of response to the attacks on Dalits by cow vigilantes, the party over the last two years has only reinforced an image that it doesnt care for the weakest section.This is where the nomination of Kovind comes in as quite useful for the BJP. The 71-year-old is from Kanpur, belongs to the Dalit Koli community, has formerly led the BJP's Dalit Morcha, is low-key and has political along with gubernatorial experience - thus ticking many boxes for Modi and Shah.Party insiders said the other name in consideration, from the RSS, was Thawar Chand Gehlot. The social justice minister is the Dalit face of the party and is a member of the parliamentary board as well. But unlike Kovind who comes from UP, Gehlot is from Madhya Pradesh.There is another reason why the selection of Kovind is politically astute. A Dalit candidate will makes it difficult for allies and Opposition parties, including the Congress, to go all out against the BJP pick. Something similar to the situation the BJP faced when Congress chose K R Narayanan in 1997 and he walked into the Rashtrapati Bhavan with an unprecedented majority.
Chennai: A case has been registered by the police in connection with the alleged bribing of voters of R K Nagar constituency, where a bypoll slated for April 12 was rescinded by the Election Commission over use of money power, the state assembly was informed on Monday.



Chief Minister K Palaniswami said the case had been registered by the police and investigation was on.



He was responding to Leader of Opposition M K Stalin (DMK) and Congress members who raised the issue of EC asking the state chief electoral officer to lodge a police case on the alleged bribing of voters in R K Nagar constituency in north Chennai.



"A probe is on," he said citing the EC's directive to the CEO which was referred in an RTI reply to a Chennai-based advocate.



However, DMK members were on their feet after Palaniswami's reply saying they were not satisfied with his response.



Later, they staged a walkout.



The DMK's allies the Congress and the lone IUML member followed suit.



Earlier, soon after the Question Hour ended, Stalin sought adjournment of the House to debate the EC's directive.



Speaker P Dhanapal allowed the DMK leader to raise the issue but asked him not to get into the details of it, saying there was not much time to obtain sufficient inputs from the government.

Later, some remarks made by Stalin in connection with the issue were expunged by the Speaker.



The issue of EC's directive came to fore after a copy of its response to a plea under the Right to Information Act by the city-based lawyer M P Vairakkannan was circulated to media on Sunday.



The EC said it had directed the state CEO on April 18 to ask the R K Nagar returning officer to file a complaint with police for bribing the voters.


The ruling party sprung a surprise on Monday by putting forth Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovinds name as the next President of India, getting everyone in the country, including the opposition off guard. Kovinds name has resulted in various reactions, including dissent from certain opposition parties. Union minister Venkaiah Naidu speaks exclusively to CNN-News18s Marya Shakil on why it boiled down to Kovind, and how the ruling party plans to take on the opposition in the upcoming Presidential polls.



Q. Youre a member of the BJP Parliamentary board and also part of the panel constituted by Amit Shah for the Presidential polls. Could you tell us what all names were there in the list of probable names for President?



A. The party president has explained to everyone how the process took place. The Prime Minister also made it clear that he did not want it anyone kept out of the decision making. All stakeholders have been consulted and whatever has been suggested by the Parliamentary Board has also been taken into consideration. Choosing Kovind was a unanimous decision.



Q. The initial reactions from various parties, including your ally Shiv Sena, have not been very positive. Sanjay Raut has gone on record saying that the BJP should have shared the name with Uddhav Thackeray when Shah met him on Sunday. Why did you not disclose the name? Do you think it will be possible to build a consensus?



A. I dont want to discuss anything or argue over the matter with any of our allies. They have been consulted, and Amit Shah has personally met the Shiv Sena chief. I would just like to say that the Shiv Sena supremo was spoken to on Sunday and even on Monday. I dont want to debate or argue with them. They are our allies and we would never try to spoil things with them or jeopardise our alliance.



Q. Ghulam Nabi Azad has said that its a one-sided decision.



A. They have got every right in the democracy. We discussed with Congress and other parties about possible names, and have kept their inputs in mind while deciding on our candidate. We discussed the possibilities with the SP, BSP, NCP and other parties too. We received inputs from them, asking them what sort of a candidate they expected. We didnt give them a name, and neither did they. So, finally the parliamentary board met on Monday. Amit Shah had consulted all our allies and also the panel that he had constituted for the Presidential elections, which included Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh and I. Amit Shah had spoken to Shiv Sena and I have, myself, spoken to communist leaders.



It was only after careful and intricate discussion with all stakeholders involved, including the opposition that we have come to a conclusion. The Prime Minister spoke to the Congress president and other party leaders before deciding on a final name. Ram Nath Kovinds background and work for the under privileged makes him the best possible candidate. He is not controversial at all. His humble, social background only makes him more committed to issues of the lesser privileged.



I am confident that the opposition will support us. They have every right to sit amongst us during such times of important decision making. And we have made it a point to include each one of them.





Q. Youve previously said that the President of the country will solely be that, and not be the President of any party. Then why is there a focus on consensus building when you have the numbers in the Electoral College?



A. Its not a question of numbers alone. Consensus has always been there. Right from 1977 when Sanjay Naidu was the President to times when APJ Abdul Kalam was in the position, there has always been a broad consensus. In spite of having the numbers, we reached out to other opposition parties before taking a final call. The manner in which were getting this done has been appreciated by one and all.



Q. The criticism, however, is that when you did meet the opposition, you didnt have a name. Do you think it would have been better had you gone to them with a name?



A. Lets say we had gone with a name. Then they would say that weve already decided on a name. So, its only better that we consulted them and then took all their inputs into consideration to arrive at a decision.



Q. If the opposition decides to field a candidate, what will be the governments next move?



A. I am hopeful that the opposition will realise the mood of the nation and extend their support to Kovind.

If they do field a candidate, I am hopeful that they will put forward the name of a capable candidate.



Q. Kovind will not be the first Dalit President (KR Narayanan was the first ever from the community). What is the message that the BJP is looking to send?



A. We are not appealing to the people to support him because of his background. Look at his work. He has made tremendous contribution to the political sphere and was president of the SC/ST Morcha. He is a son of the farmer and comes from the lowest strata of the society. He was a 2-time Rajya Sabha MP, and has made tremendous contribution to the debates in the House. He has been president of the SC/ST Morcha three times, and was part of the government council during 1971. He was an advocate in the Supreme Court. With his legal background and rich political experience, he is a good choice.



Q. Very little is known about Kovind. What is your personal take on the NDA Presidential candidate?



A. Personally too, I can vouch for the fact that he is an extremely soft-spoken man and humble. I was party president when he was made the president of the SC/ST Morcha, and from my interactions with him, I can tell you that he has been steady in his work for upliftment of those who are lesser privileged.


BJP has done it again! There were months of speculation. News channels had even moved reporters outside the Ministry of External Affairs, expecting Sushma Swaraj will be declared as the BJP nominee for Presidential polls. But at the press conference Amit Shah pulled out a blinder.Halting for a moment before announcing the name, backed with the knowledge that his audience is in for a surprise, yet again, he announced Ram Nath Kovind, Bihar governor as the candidate. There was something in the manner in which he announced the name which gave away a sense of satisfaction in throwing a surprise.He paused for a few seconds, allowing the anticipation to build and then in a matter of seconds, sent newsrooms across the country to Google. After all it was yet another occasion when before telling the world who the Presidential candidate is, newsrooms had to first find out who Mr Kovind is?For those aware of the way Narendra Modi and Amit Shah operates, this was hardly a surprise. A veteran journalist who knew the Prime Minister from the time he was the general secretary of BJP, recounts a story which perhaps reveals why such surprises have become a pattern now. He once went to meet Modi after he became the Prime Minister. In a mood to indulge, Modi asked him what could he do for him? The journalist said tell me who would be the new ministers. To this the PM allegedly laughed out loud saying even the ministers would get to know this on the day of the reshuffle.Here we have a PM and A party chief who relishes on surprises. This is evident in most of their decisions. Whether it is the selection of Yogi Adityanath as UP Chief Minister or Manohar Lal Khattar as the Haryana Chief Minister, the surprise quotient remained a constant. Even a relatively low key Delhi Police Commissioners job too went to Amulya Patnaik while the force and media speculated about the possibility of the two high profile IPS officers Dharmender Kumar and Deepak Mishra.In the bureaucracy too this message is very clear. Speak to any claimant for any departmental top job, first thing they say is please dont run my name as a frontrunner or else I would never get it.For journalists covering the government a great part of their job is to speculate and find out the key appointments before the formal announcements. For them, THE last three years have been a perpetual drought.The message from the Centres power centre seems to be clear, you speculate and we eliminate.
China's two supercomputers still world's fastest as U.S. squeezed out of 3rd place

China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the U.S. government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the U.S. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.

"This is the second time in the 24-year history of the TOP500 list that the United States has failed to secure any of the top three positions," the TOP500 organizers said in a statement.

The only other time this occurred was in November 1996, when three Japanese systems captured the top three spots.

"Nevertheless, the U.S. still claims five of the top 10 supercomputers, which is more than any other nation," they said.

Fu called the upgraded Swiss system "really a surprise," saying that "it reflects the increased investment in large-scale supercomputers in Europe."
Samajwadi Party leader Gayatri Prajapatis bail in a rape case has caused quite a political storm. With reports claiming that the leader bribed his way out to get bail, Congress leader Akhilesh Pratap Singh called for strict action against those selling and buying justice.The common man has a lot of faith in the judiciary. They consider it a place of justice. If justice is being bought and sold then those concerned, sitting in the judiciary or the bureaucracy, should immediately look into this and take necessary action, said the Rudrapur MLA. The Times of India reported that Prajapatis bail was thanks to a conspiracy involving senior judges and a sum of Rs 10 crore changed hands.The facts came to light after Allahabad High Court Chief Justice Dilip B Bhosale had sought an inquiry into Prajapati's bail. The probe revealed high-level corruption in posting of judges to sensitive courts which handle cases of heinous crimes such as rape and murder.BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi also attacked the former UP minister and said that the citizens of India should question the judiciary if necessary.People dont do it, but they should question the judiciary if necessary. The system is bent towards criminals or more specifically towards people with power and money. Unfortunately Prajapati is out on bail, she said, before adding that it was a mockery of the judiciary and constitution.Prajapati was arrested from Lucknow on March 15 after the Supreme Courts directives and was sent to judicial custody. The SP leader had sought a Narco test soon after his arrest and denied the charges against him, calling them politically motivated.An FIR was lodged on February 17 against the 49-year-old minister and six others for allegedly gang-raping a woman and attempting to rape her minor daughter.The woman had said in her complaint that she was gang-raped from October 2014 to July 2016. When the accused tried to molest her daughter, she wrote a letter in October 2016 to the DGP demanding action.A Look Out notice and a non-bailable warrant were issued against Prajapati, while his passport was also impounded. Airports across the country were alerted about the possibility of Prajapati trying to flee the country.
New Delhi: The Opposition is bracing for another fight against the government - this time over the presidential polls.



Moments after BJP announced Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential candidate, opposition parties decided to oppose it. Sources say the Congress will put up a candidate against Kovind, though the name will be finalised only after the opposition meet on June 22.



Congress leaders, though, were careful in their choice of words while contesting 'the BJP's choice', with Ghulam Nabi Azad saying "everyone knows how BJP has treated the Dalits". The reference was to the Dalit card played by the BJP by choosing Kovind as the presidential candidate.



Mamata Banerjee, who is away in The Netherlands, was the most vocal in opposing Kovind. Trinamool MP Derek O' Brien took a dig by tweeting: "How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today? I did. #RamNathKovind



All eyes are on Nitish Kumar who, of late, has shown an increasing proximity to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was the first to call on Kovind, who is Bihar Governor.



Though Nitish didn't spell out his strategy, many within Opposition feel he may end up supporting presidential choice of the NDA.



Now the dilemma before the Opposition is to come up with someone who can put up a fight . It's clear that NDA has the numbers and the decks are clear for Kovind, but in politics it's important to show that you are battle ready.



There are no names shortlisted yet, and there are many probables. Gopalkrishna Gandhi and Meira Kumar are front runners. But the bigger concern for the opposition is a possible break in unity.



Back in 2007, when the Congress put up Pratibha Patil, Shiv Sena broke opposition ranks to vote for her because she was from Maharashtra. It was the turn of the Congress to smile then. Now, the shoe is on the other foot. The party will be under pressure not to weaken opposition unity ahead of the 2019 general elections.




Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is the BJPs nominee for upcoming presidential election. In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Kovind, who is likely to file his papers on June 23, will make an exceptional president. While the NDA constituents have backed the pick, among the opposition parties the Congress and Trinamool Congress are upset that they were informed after the BJP arrived at a decision.

As it happened.

Read all the Latest News , Breaking News , watch Top Videos and Live TV here.
New Delhi: With just five days left for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to leave for the United States, the ruling BJP has called a parliamentary board meeting on Monday to discuss its nominee for the upcoming Presidential elections.



Modi is expected to attend the meeting, along with senior party leaders Amit Shah, Union ministers Venkaiah Naidu, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj. It is not clear whether the nominee will be decided on Monday itself or in a separate NDA meeting later this week.



Things seem to be heating up for the Presidential elections as Finance Minister Arun Jaitley spoke to the top brass at Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal on Sunday.



Sources close to the party leadership had earlier told News18 that Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav and Naresh Agarwal met Union minister Venkaiah Naidu and have communicated that they would want a "political person" in the Raisina Hill.



Last week, Rajnath Singh and Venkaiah Naidu had met Congress president Sonia Gandhi, while, Left leaders Sitaram Yechury, S Sudhakar Reddy and D Raja Naidu held a detailed discussion with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar over the phone on Saturday.







External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj emerged as a lead contender to become NDA's Presidential candidate, three top sources from the BJP and RSS had earlier told News18. Names of Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and Jharkhand Governor Draupadi Murmu have also been doing the rounds for the top post.
Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Monday stepped up its attack on the BJP and slammed its chief Amit Shah, saying that his party may win in case of snap polls in Maharashtra and also get its presidential nominee elected but wondered whether it would be able to save the day in Kashmir.



"Amit Shah and his party's eyes are on mid-term polls in Maharashtra. But instead of mid-term poll results, we are worried about what will happen in Kashmir and in violence-hit Darjeeling," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'.



The Sena's scathing attack on Shah came a day after he met party president Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree'.



It said the biggest question on Monday was till when should we keep counting the number of martyred security personnel.



"Amit Shah says Maharashtra government will last its five-year term. But will our Kashmir remain on India's map?" it questioned.



The Sena said that Jammu and Kashmir Chief minister Mehbooba Mufti was openly supporting "youth attacking" soldiers and was blaming jawans for the present situation in Kashmir.



"When the Sena talks about farmers and takes a nationalist stand over issues, attempts are made to teach us a lesson. But not a word is spoken against her (Mehbooba) by the BJP. On the contrary they are supporting it," it said.



"Maharashtra shouldn't be a priority. The situation has gone out of hand in Kashmir and Darjeeling where innocents are being killed.



"One may have political differences with (West Bengal CM) Mamata Banerjee but nobody should try to take political advantage of the situation there," it added.



"Whatever has to happen in Maharashtra mid-term polls will happen. Amit Shah says they will form the government. You will get their president elected. You will win all elections.



But will you be able to save Kashmir?" it asked.



Shah had on Sunday ruled out any snap polls in Maharashtra but said the party was ready in case of such an eventuality.
Kolkata: Hours after BJP sprung a surprise by announcing Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its pick for the presidential elections on July 17, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday hinted that TMC is not going to support him.



The Bengal Chief Minister has always stressed that the Presidential candidate must be acceptable to all, and he/she should be a secular person and known to all.



Mamata, who is currently in the Netherlands on an official tour, said, "In order to support someone, we must know the person. Candidate should be someone who will be beneficial for the country."



I am not, for a moment, saying that the Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit to be the President. I have spoken to few other Opposition leaders, they are also surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP they have made him the candidate, she said.



While backing BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani, she said, The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advani ji may have been made the candidate.



TMC Chief National Spokesperson Derek OBrien, taking a jibe at BJPs Presidential nominee, twitted, The name was announced at the BJP Press Conference. Thats how we got to know. Not even informed. How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today? I did.



On June 22, the Opposition parties will meet to announce our decision on the presidential candidate.



The total strength of electoral college for the presidential polls is 11,04,546 votes and BJP-led NDAs currently standing is nearly 5.38 lakh votes. President Pranab Mukherjee is slated to retire in July.


Weeks after dropping strong hints of a political plunge, actor Rajinikanth is busy meeting representatives of various outfits.A day after pledging Rs 1 crore and his support to a delegation of farmers who have been demanding the interlinking of rivers, Rajinikanth met the leader of Hindu Makkal Katchi, Arjun Sampath, on Monday morning. He is scheduled to meet representative of the Hindu Munnani at noon.After meeting Rajinikanth, members of the Hindu Makkal Katchi spoke to reporters. We discussed the political system in Tamil Nadu. We have requested him to take the political plunge. He told us he is seriously considering it, a member of outfit told CNN-News18. If he floats his own party, the main agenda will be the inter-linking of rivers. Only Rajini can fill the political vacuum in the state.The actor, however, said nothing about politics was discussed in the meeting. It was just a courtesy meeting.The meetings have fuelled speculation that the Kabali superstar would soon join politics. He had told his fans last month to be ready for war, adding that the "system is rotten" and needs to be changed.Adding to the speculation is his upcoming venture, Kaala, whose poster has Rajinikanth seated on a jeep with an eye-catching number plate: MH 01 BR 1956. The year 1956 was the year when architect of Indian Constitution and Dalit icon BR Ambedkar converted to Buddhism.Several BJP leaders, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, have said the actor would be welcome in the party. He is welcome in politics and it is my request to him to think about the BJP. There is an appropriate place for him in the BJP, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways had told CNN-News18.While DMK working president MK Stalin had said that it was Rajinikanth's wish "whether or not to join politics," others, including pro-Tamil leader Seeman, opposed it. All India Mahila Congress General Secretary and actress Nagma had said days before Rajini addressed his fans that the top star will be successful if he chose to come to politics. The buzz triggered by Rajinis comments is reminiscent of the hysteria witnessed in 1996 when he openly defied J Jayalalithaa, asking people not to vote for her. The then hustings saw 'Amma' losing the assembly elections and the DMK-TMC registering a landslide victory.Having had his run-ins with the powers that be in the past, the actor has come a long way from his first outburst in 1996 when he said "even God can't save Tamil Nadu" if AIADMK was elected again.In the ensuing political developments, he backed the DMK-TMC (Tamil Maanila Congress, led by the late G.K. Moopanar) combine, which also cashed in on the severe anti-incumbency against the ruling AIADMK. However, the combine could not keep the momentum on as AIADMK staged a good comeback in the 1998 Parliamentary polls.In the meantime, the actor continued to give some hints of a political entry in his film Baba (2002), which also saw Dr. S Ramadoss-founded PMK go up in arms against his on screen smoking. In the film, dealing with the protagonist's transformation from a carefree atheist to a believer, the plot details the actor's brush with a wily politician.However, whenever his fans have been vocal or proactive about his political plunge, the actor has either remained silent or distanced himself away from the topic. Twice his supporters and actors have come out in the open floating some 'party' or 'outfit' in a bid to pressure Rajini, as he is fondly called, to enter politics.Many political parties, barring AIADMK, had been wooing him. However, he was on good terms with Jayalalithaa in the recent past and had even rued he had 'hurt' her back in 1996 by being critical of her. In his latest comments, Rajinikanth had said he had no desire to joins politics, but if he did, he would show the door to all "money-minded" people.
Perhaps the one clue that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered in a variety of his decisions over the past three years is: Think outside Delhi. In selecting Ram Nath Kovind, Governor of Bihar, as the BJPs candidate for the presidency, yet again, Modi has bypassed the speculation in the national capital about one or the other big name, including some from within his cabinet.



What could have motivated Kovinds selection? He is a Dalit, belonging to a small non-Jatav community, traditionally, a deprived sub-segment even within the Dalits. He is from Uttar Pradesh, a lawyer and politician of long standing, and has had strong ties with the RSS. An experienced administrator, he was once executive assistant to Morarji Desai, the late Prime Minister. As such he ticks many boxes.



Most important, Kovinds choice indicates Modi is the consummate politician and completely alive to the symbolism of the presidential nomination only two years before the Lok Sabha election. The BJPs primary aim in 2019 would be to secure its huge majority in Uttar Pradesh, where it won 71 of the 80 seats in 2014, with an allied party winning two seats.



In 2019, it is likely the Samajwadi Party and the BSP, along with the Congress, may come to an understanding to take on the BJP. Already, there are murmurs of BSP leader Mayawatis election to the Rajya Sabha being facilitated by the SP, which could transfer votes to her.



The recent Dalit-Thakur violence in Saharanpur would also have indicated to the BJP that bringing Dalits into its fold in Uttar Pradesh, while somewhat successful in 2014 and 2017, remains a work in progress and is liable to be actively contested by political rivals. All these factors would have pointed to opting for Kovind. The signal to Dalits in Uttar Pradesh, and across the Hindi heartland, is critical to sustaining success in the upcoming state elections and finally in the 2019 Lok Sabha contest.



The imminent presidency of Kovind is also a landmark in the Sangh Parivars project of Hindu consolidation. Through the Hindutva surge of the late 1980s and early 1990s, especially during the Ayodhya movement, the Sangh and its various arms sought to broaden their social base. This was more sustainable among OBCs than among Dalits, and it was only in 2014 that Modi and Amit Shah made a concerted effort to reach out to younger Dalit voters. This was especially so in Uttar Pradesh where the Mayawati narrative had peaked and, while the BSP was still popular, Dalits, especially non-Jatavs, were looking for options.



The selection of Kovind could just be a turning point in the BJPs  and the broader Sanghs  engagement with Dalits, and lead to a consolidation of that constituency in the near term. If the OBCisation of the BJP was a theme of politics in Uttar Pradesh and north India in the 1990s, the next phase  of the party throwing up Dalit faces and leaders and emblems  is now upon us.



Is this a cynical ploy and should the BJP have looked at the choice for Rashtrapati Bhawan in non-electoral or non-political terms? That is a fair question but frankly an academic one. Non-political choices such as A.P.J. Abdul Kalam usually emerge when a compromise is needed and the government of the day cannot have its way. When the government is strong enough to push its nominee, it makes a political selection.



This is what Indira Gandhi did when she chose a lower-caste Sikh, Zail Singh, as president in 1982. This is what P.V. Narasimha Rao did when he went in for a northern Brahmin-southern Dalit combination in 1992: Shankar Dayal Sharma for president and K.R. Narayanan for vice-president. In 2007, when the Congress was well placed, Sonia Gandhi sent Pratibha Patil to the presidential palace. In 2012, when the Congress was on a weaker wicket and allied parties would not accept just another family loyalist, Sonia Gandhi recognised Pranab Mukherjee was the only feasible option for her party.



This time too Modi has plucked a name that fills many slots and that will be difficult for a series of opposition politicians to challenge.





The author is distinguished fellow, Observer Research Foundation
The BJP sprung a surprise on Monday when it announced Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its pick for the presidential elections on July 17.Kovind became a Rajya Sabha MP in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh and served for two consecutive terms for 12 years till March 2006. He has served as a member in many important Parliamentary committees, including those on welfare of scheduled castes/tribes, home affairs, petroleum and natural gas, social justice and empowerment and law and justice. He was also chairman of Rajya Sabha House Committee.ALSO READ | Who is Ram Nath Kovind: Meet BJP's Prez Nominee Who Ticks the Dalit Box As a Dalit and a non-controversial face, Kovind is the BJPs best bet to get opposition parties on board. He belongs to the Dalit community Koli and has worked extensively in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar before being elevated as Bihar Governor.He had earlier headed the partys Dalit base and groomed several leaders from the BJP and the RSS for bigger roles. He was once the BJPs choice to counter BSP chief Mayawatis caste politics in Uttar Pradesh.Another aspect that may have worked in Kovinds favour is his perceived closeness to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.As Kovind seems set to occupy the highest constitutional post in the country, his experience as Bihar Governor will come in handy.Kovinds nomination was announced by BJP chief Amit Shah after a nearly two-hour meeting of the partys Parliamentary Board on Monday morning. Kovind is likely to file the nomination papers on June 23. Shah said political parties had been informed of the choice. "I hope all will agree to the name," he said at a press conference.
New Delhi: Hours after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) declared Ram Nath Kovind's name as its Presidential candidate on Monday, he said he will talk to leaders of all the major political parties and seek their support to emerge as a 'consensus candidate' for the top post.



Kovind met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah on Monday evening after he touched down in Delhi from Patna.



Kovind then drove down to Shah's residence where he was greeted by senior BJP leaders. He stayed at the BJP chief's residence for nearly an hour where both are believed to have discussed the formalities related to the presidential poll.



He said he was a "small citizen" entrusted with a big responsibility.



"All those who are members of the electoral college...I will meet leaders of major political parties and seek their support...I hope that every citizen will support me," he said.



Later, Kovind briefly visited the Bihar Niwas where he declined to answer any question from the media and only said, "I thank everyone."



Non-NDA parties like BJD, TRS and YSRCP have announced their support to the Dalit leader. Kovind is likely to file= his nomination on June 23.



If elected, which appears to be a certainty, the 71-year-old former lawyer would be only the second Dalit to occupy the Rashtrapati Bhavan after K R Narayanan.



While the NDA's Presidential nominee said he will talk to all the major political parties, the Opposition was caught off guard when the announcement came.



Sources say the Congress will put up a candidate against Kovind, though the name will be finalised only after the opposition meet on June 22.



(With inputs from PTI)
BJPs national president Amit Shah has announced the name of Ram Nath Kovind, 71, as NDAs presidential nominee.



Did L K Advani (89) and Murli Manohar Joshi (83) missed the bus because of their advanced age?



The selection of Kovind also raises a key question: Has the Narendra Modi government set an age bar for its presidential candidate?



At 71, Kovind is the youngest of the lot and no longer an active politician. He has been the governor of Bihar since 2015. And, if elected, he would be 76 by the time he completes his term. His age is in sync with the Modi governments firm retirement age policy of 75.



Out of the 13 elected presidents, seven of them were older to Kovind when they took office. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (73), Varahagiri Venkata Giri (74), R Venkataraman (76), Shankar Dyal Sharma (73), K.R. Narayanan (76), Prathibha Patil (72) and Pranab Mukherjee (76) were all elder to Kovind.



However, there are six presidents, who were younger to Kovind, when they took oath. Dr. Rajendra Prasad became countrys first president at the age of 65, Dr. Zakir Hussain was 70 and Dr. Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed was 69. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, at 64, has been the youngest president. Giani Zail Singh was 66 took when he took oath and A P J Abdul Kalam was 70 to assume the most prestigious office in the country.



Soon after coming into power in 2014, Narendra Modi introduced the rule that leaders above 75 should not hold any administrative post in either Central or state governments. He has been ruthless in implementation of the age bar.



For example, former Chief Minister of Gujarat Anandiben Patel stepped down last year at the age of 74. Similarly, Najma Heptulah resigned as Union minister for minority affairs last year after she turned 76.



In the light of the strict enforcement of retirement age policy by the Modi govt, questions abound the vice-presidential candidates age as well.



Will the candidate be picked keeping the 75 mark in mind?
President Donald Trump will meet with the chief executives of technology companies including Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc on Monday as the White House looks to the private sector for help in cutting government waste and improving services.White House officials said on a conference call on Friday that the administration believed there was an "economic opportunity" to save up to $1 trillion over 10 years by significantly cutting government information technology costs, reducing government costs through improved IT, leveraging government buying power and cutting fraud across government agencies.The meeting with nearly 20 chief executives comes as the White House pushes to shrink government, cut federal employees and eliminate regulations. Many business executives are eager to work with the new administration as they face numerous regulatory and other policy issues.In May, Trump created an "American Technology Council," the latest in a series of efforts to modernise the U.S. government. He signed a separate order in March to overhaul the federal government and tapped son-in-law and senior adviser Jared Kushner to lead a White House Office of American Innovation to leverage business ideas and potentially privatise some government functions.Others planning to attend include Alphabet Inc Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt, venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Chairman John Doerr and the chief executives of Microsoft Corp IBM Corp, Mastercard Inc, Intel Corp, Qualcomm Inc, Oracle Corp and Adobe Systems Inc, a White House official said on Sunday.In May, Trump asked lawmakers to cut $3.6 trillion in government spending over the next decade, taking aim at health care and food assistance programs for the poor in a budget that also boosted spending on defence.A 2016 U.S. Government Accountability Office report estimated the U.S. government spent more than $80 billion on IT annually, excluding classified operations. In 2015, there were at least 7,000 separate IT investments by the U.S. government and some agencies were using systems that had components at least 50 years old.Chris Liddell, a White House official who directs the American Technology Council and is a former Microsoft and General Motors Co chief financial officer, said on Friday the Trump administration aimed to improve government services to at least the level of the private sector.The tech CEOs and White House also plan to discuss Trump's review announced in April of the U.S. visa program for bringing high-skilled foreign workers into the country.More than a dozen Trump administration officials including Vice President Mike Pence, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Kushner and Liddell will hold group sessions with the chief executives before they jointly meet with Trump.The council also seeks to boost the cybersecurity of U.S. government IT systems and wants to learn from private-sector practices. In 2015, hackers exposed the personal information of 22 million people from U.S. government databases.In a document outlining the working-group sessions, the White House said the federal government should require "making it easy for agencies to use the cloud."The White House thinks it can take lessons from credit card companies in significantly reducing fraud. A 2016 government audit found that in Medicaid alone, there was $29 billion in fraud in a single year.Following Trump's June 1 decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accords, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk and Walt Disney CEO Robert Iger stepped down from White House advisory panels. White House officials said the dispute had little impact and that they had to turn away tech leaders from Monday's event because of lack of space.
The merger that shook food and retail stocks on Friday - Amazon.com's proposed deal to buy Whole Foods Market - rattled some employees of the upscale grocery chain who expressed fears ranging from layoffs to the loss of their laid-back corporate culture.The online retailer hopes the $13.7 billion acquisition helps it disrupt the grocery business and expand its real-world store footprint.Carmen Clark, 37, a six-year employee at a store in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, said some workers worry that Amazon-led automation could lead to job cuts. "Everybody's been kind of joking that it's going to be robots and drones," Clark said of potential changes from Amazon, which uses robots in its warehouses and is testing drones for delivery.But she is giving Amazon the benefit of the doubt. "I have purchased from Amazon for five years. It's a good company," she said.Read more: Motorola Moto C Plus Launched For Rs 6,999: All You Should Know Reuters approached a dozen employees in California, New York, Illinois, South Carolina and Rhode Island. Many said they had been told by managers not to speak to reporters.Several workers expressed relief and happiness about the planned sale, which came as Whole Foods faced pressure from hedge fund investor Jana Partners to improve results.Whole Foods recently overhauled its board and redoubled cost-cutting efforts, seeking to change a high-price image that has tagged it with the nickname "Whole Paycheck." But Whole Foods has lost market share to rivals Kroger, Wal-Mart Stores, Costco Wholesale and others that have elbowed into the natural and organic segment Whole Foods pioneered.Some workers at the nonunion grocery chain wondered whether Amazon, known for its hard-driving culture, would mean big changes to their pay, benefits or employment."I think that they are a very profit-driven company, so there might be some streamlining as far as labour," said Sasha Hardin, 28, of the Mount Pleasant store, who has been with Whole Foods for 6-1/2 years.A Los Angeles deli worker in his 30s, who is expecting his first child this summer, is worried about layoffs. "I want to keep working," said the worker, who did not want his name used.Whole Foods has a corporate culture that prizes inclusive decision-making, such as allowing workers to vote on benefits every three years and disclosing executive pay."I've heard that Amazon's culture is really cutthroat. That worries me," one bagger at a Providence, Rhode Island, store said.At least one customer was concerned that an Amazon purchase would further distance Whole Foods from its roots as a purveyor of premium, organic and specialty foods."This store has become a money-making machine," said Tony Castro, a 40-year-old private chef, who shops daily in Whole Foods' sprawling downtown Los Angeles store.
The EU's powerful antitrust regulator will decide a historic case against Google in the coming weeks that could see the Internet giant hit with a record fine, sources said on Friday."We are heading towards a decision this summer," one source close to the matter told AFP on condition of anonymity.Led by hard-charging European Commission competition chief Margrethe Vestager, Google faces a massive penalty that could reach as much $9 billion (roughly Rs. 57,961 crores), or ten percent of Google's total revenue last year.Read more: Motorola Moto C Plus Launched For Rs 6,999: All You Should Know Brussels accuses Google of giving its own online shopping services top priority in search results to the detriment of other price comparison services.The case is one of three against Google and of several against blockbuster US companies including Starbucks, Apple, Amazon and McDonalds.The previous record for illegal monopoly practices is held by US firm Intel, which was fined EUR 1.06 billion in 2009, about 3 percent of the company's turnover."The commission's radio silence in the past months means that it is approaching the decision," another source close to the matter told AFP, who expected a hefty fine.In August, Vestager shocked the world with a demand that Apple repay Ireland EUR 13 billion in back taxes.In the other cases, the EU is examining Google's AdSense advertising service and its Android mobile phone software.The potentially painful verdict against Google came after a long period in which the two sides tried unsuccessfully to settle the case amicably.Instead, the cases have raised tensions between Brussels and Washington, which has accused the EU of unfairly targeting US giants.The European Commission, which polices EU competition policy, launched an initial investigation into Google in 2010 following complaints from rivals such as Microsoft and Trip Advisor that it favoured its own shopping services when customers ran searches.Claims that practices by Google Shopping harm competition "are wrong as a matter of fact, law, and economics," Google's general counsel Kent Walker wrote in his response to the EU last year.Vestager's predecessor, Joaquin Almunia, made three attempts to resolve the dispute but in each case intense pressure by national governments, rivals and privacy advocates scuppered the effort.
Robots are getting softer. Borrowing from nature, some machines now have arms that curl and grip like an octopus, others wriggle their way inside an airplane engine or forage underwater to create their own energy.This is technology that challenges how we think of, and interact with, the robots of the not-too-distant future.Robots are big business: by 2020, the industry will have more than doubled to $188 billion, predicts IDC, a consultancy. But there's still a lot that today's models can't do, partly because they are mostly made of rigid metal or plastic.Softer, lighter and less reliant on external power, future robots could interact more safely and predictably with humans, go where humans can't and do some of the robotic jobs that other robots still can't manage.A recent academic conference in Singapore showcased the latest advances in soft robotics, highlighting how far they are moving away from what we see as traditional robots."The theme here," says Nikolaus Correll of Colorado University, "is a departure from gears, joints and links."One robot on display was made of origami paper; another resembled a rolling colostomy bag. They are more likely to move via muscles that expand and contract through heat or hydraulics than by electricity. Some combine sensing and movement into the same component - just as our fingertips react to touch without needing our brain to make a decision.These ideas are already escaping from the lab.Rolls-Royce, for example, is testing a snake-like robot that can worm its way inside an aircraft engine mounted on the wing, saving the days it can take to remove the engine, inspect it and put it back.Of all the technologies Rolls-Royce is exploring to solve this bottleneck, "this is the killer one," says Oliver Walker-Jones, head of communications.The snake, says its creator, Arnau Garriga Casanovas, is made largely of pressurised silicone chambers, allowing the controller to propel and bend it through the engine with bursts of air. Using soft materials, he says, means it can be small and agile.For now, much of the commercial action for softer robots is in logistics, replacing production-line jobs that can't yet be handled by hard robots.Food preparation companies and growers like Blue Apron, Plated and HelloFresh already use soft robotics for handling produce, says Mike Rocky, of recruiter PrincetonOne.The challenge, says Cambridge Consultants' Nathan Wrench, is to overcome the uncertainty when handling something - which humans deal with unconsciously: figuring out its shape and location and how hard to grip it, and distinguishing one object from another."This is an area robots traditionally can't do, but where (soft robots) are on the cusp of being able to," said Wrench.Investors are excited, says Leif Jentoft, co-founder of RightHand Robotics, because it addresses a major pain point in the logistics industry. "E-commerce is growing rapidly and warehouses are struggling to find enough labour, especially in remote areas where warehouses tend to be located."Some hope to ditch the idea that robots need hands. German automation company Festo and China's Beihang University have built a prototype OctopusGripper, which has a pneumatic tentacle made of silicone that gently wraps itself around an object, while air is pumped in or out of suction cups to grasp it.The ocean has inspired other robots, too.A soft robot fish from China's Zhejiang University swims by ditching the usual rigid motors and propellers for an artificial muscle which flexes. It's lifelike enough, says creator Tiefeng Li, to fool other fish into embracing it as one of their own, and is being tested to explore or monitor water salinity.And Bristol University in the UK is working on underwater robots that generate electrical energy by foraging for biomatter to feed a chain of microbial fuel-cell stomachs. Hemma Philamore says her team is talking to companies and environmental organisations about using its soft robots to decontaminate polluted waterways and monitor industrial infrastructure.This doesn't mean the end of hard-shelled robots.Part of the problem, says Mark Freudenberg, executive technology director at frog, a design company, is that soft materials break easily, noting that most animatronic dolls like Teddy Ruxpin and Furby have rigid motors and plastic casings beneath their fur exteriors.To be sure, the nascent soft robot industry lacks an ecosystem of software, hardware components and standards - and some companies have already failed. Empire Robotics, one of the first soft robot gripper companies, closed last year.RightHand's Jentoft says the problem is that customers don't just want a robot, but the whole package, including computer vision and machine learning. "It's hard to be a standalone gripper company," he says.And even if soft robots find a niche, chances are they still won't replace all the jobs done by human or hard-shelled robots.Wrench, whose Cambridge Consultants has built its own fruit picking robot, says he expects to see soft robots working with humans to harvest fruit like apples and pears which are harder to damage.Once the robot has passed through, human pickers would follow to grab fruit hidden behind leaves and in hard-to-reach spots."It's a constant race to the bottom, so there's a pressing business need," Wrench said.\
OnePlus 5 is all set to launch in India on June 22nd and on 20th it will be unveiled to the world. The phone has already generated a lot of interest among consumers in India as well as the world. The company is also not shying away from revealing what the phone will offer for consumers. We already have a fair idea as to how the phone will look.During India vs Pakistan final ICC Champions Trophy match OnePlus teased the phone in TV ADs and now a new leak has surfaced.We already know that the phone is much slimmer than the OnePlus 3T, so the battery spec on the OnePlus 5 would have been difficult to increase.OnePlus 3T comes with a 3400 mAh battery and on the OnePlus 5, the company could just squeeze in a 3300 mAh battery. Some websites are also suggesting that the device will come with a 4000 mAh battery, but that in our opinion is just not possible physically.A 3300 mAh battery should also be good enough for users as the phone will come with DASH charging that gives the phone, power to last a day in just 30 minutes of charging.Watch this space for more on OnePlus 5 and also it's review on June 22.
Samsung is set to launch another device in India judging from the invites it has sent across for an event in Bengaluru on June 20. This time, Samsung is expected to launch its next tab  the Galaxy Tab S3, which it first unveiled at the MWC 2017 in Barcelona.As for the specifications, the Galaxy Tab S3 will sport a 9.7-inch Super AMOLED display and will run on a Quad-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 Processor.The Tab S3 will come with a 4GB RAM and a 32GB internal storage option, which is further expandable up to 256GB. Camera specifications will include a 13-megapixel primary camera with Auto Focus and a 5-megapixel secondary camera. The Galaxy Tab S3 will also offer USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity and will run on the latest Android 7.0 Nougat. It will be powered by a 6,000 mAh battery with a Fast-charging option. Other features of the Galaxy Tab S3 include an Accelerometer, RGB Sensor, Fingerprint Sensor, Gyro Sensor and a Geometric Sensor. It is said to support Samsung Smart Switch, Samsung Notes, Air Command and Samsung Flow. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 will also come with an S-pen Stylus.The price and availability of the Tab are yet to be revealed in the event.
Melbourne: Indians will now be able to visit Australia more conveniently after the government announced online visitor visa facility for them from July 1 to cash in on the rising popularity of the country as a holiday destination.



In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) granted more than 65,000 visitor visas to Indians.



According to the DIBP, with the rising popularity of Australia as a holiday destination, there has been a significant rise in demand for Australian visas in India.



Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Alex Hawke said the online application option would make applying for Australian visitor visas easier and ultimately enhance the visitor experience for Indian citizens.



"Indian nationals wishing to visit Australia will soon be able to apply for a visitor visa in amore convenient and accessible manner," Hawke said.



"Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," he said.



The move comes amid hundreds of complaints from Indians wishing to travel to Australia and facing inordinate delays in obtaining visitor visas.



Online lodging will offer benefits such as accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through

the department's ImmiAccount portal.



Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible.
WUXI, June 20, 2016 (Xinhua) -- Photo taken on June 20, 2016 shows Sunway TaihuLight, a new Chinese supercomputer, in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Li Xiang) (File photo)

WASHINGTON, June 19 -- China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe-2 are still the world's fastest and second fastest machines, but America's Titan was squeezed into fourth place by an upgraded Swiss system, according to the latest edition of the semiannual T0P500 list of supercomputers released Monday.

CHINA'S HOMEGROWN SUPERCOMPUTERS

Sunway TaihuLight, described by the T0P500 list as "far and away the most powerful number-cruncher on the planet," maintained the lead since last June, when it dethroned Tianhe-2, the former champion for the previous three consecutive years.

It means that a Chinese supercomputer has topped the rankings maintained by researchers in the United States and Germany for nine times in a row.

What's more, Sunway TaihuLight, with a performance of 93 petaflops, was built entirely using processors designed and made in China.

"It highlights China's ability to conduct independent research in the supercomputing field," Haohuan Fu, deputy director of the National Supercomputing Center, where Sunway TaihuLight was installed, told Xinhua.

"China is simultaneously developing hardware and software technologies of supercomputers," Fu said. "It is expected that rapid development in homegrown hardware technologies, supported by homegrown software, will lead to a stronger research and engineering test capacity in many fields, thus promoting an industrial upgrading and, eventually, a sustainable development of China's homegrown supercomputing industry."

Tianhe-2, capable of performing 33.9 petaflops, was based on Intel chips, something banned by the U.S. government from selling to four supercomputing institutions in China since 2015.

SWISS SYSTEM "REALLY A SURPRISE"

In the latest rankings, the new number three supercomputer is the upgraded Piz Daint, a system installed at the Swiss National Supercomputing Center.

Its current performance of 19.6 petaflops pushed Titan, a machine installed at the U.S. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, into fourth place. Titan's performance of 17.6 petaflops has remained constant since it was installed in 2012.

"This is the second time in the 24-year history of the TOP500 list that the United States has failed to secure any of the top three positions," the TOP500 organizers said in a statement.

The only other time this occurred was in November 1996, when three Japanese systems captured the top three spots.

"Nevertheless, the U.S. still claims five of the top 10 supercomputers, which is more than any other nation," they said.

Fu called the upgraded Swiss system "really a surprise," saying that "it reflects the increased investment in large-scale supercomputers in Europe."

AMERICA'S STRONG STRENGTH

"Although the U.S. dropped out of the top three, it still has strong strength in high performance computing," Fu told Xinhua. "If everything goes well, we could see two U.S. systems with a performance of 200 to 300 petaflops in the next rankings at the end of the year."

Just days before the TOP500 announcement, the U.S. Department of Energy said it has awarded AMD, Cray, HP Enterprise, IBM, Intel and NVIDIA a total of 258 million U.S. dollars in funding to accelerate the development of next-generation supercomputers.

"Continued U.S. leadership in high performance computing is essential to our security, prosperity, and economic competitiveness as a nation," U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said in a recent statement.

The immediate goal of the United States is to develop at least one exascale-capable system by 2021, which will be at least 10 times faster than China's Sunway TaihuLight.

"Global competition for this technological dominance is fierce," the U.S. Department of Energy asserted. "However, the U.S. retains global leadership in the actual application of high performance computing to national security, industry, and science."

In addition, the latest list showed that the United States leads the pack in the total number of TOP500 systems, with 169, while China is a close second with 160. Both countries lost share compared to six months ago, when they each claimed 171 systems.

Besides the United States and China, the most well-represented countries on the list are Japan, with 33 supercomputers, Germany, with 28, France, with 18, and Britain, with 17.

Overall, aggregate performance on the TOP500 rose to 749 petaflops, a 32 percent jump from a year ago.

Such an increase, though, is well below the list's historical growth rate of about 185 percent per year, said the organizers.

"The slower growth in list performance is a trend that began in 2013, and has shown no signs of reversal," they said.

When it comes to companies making these systems, the U.S.-based Hewlett-Packard Enterprise claims the number one spot with 143 supercomputers. China's Lenovo is the second most popular vendor, with 88 systems, and Cray is in third place, with 57.

There are three other Chinese companies in the vendor list: Sugon (No. 4 with 44 systems), Inspur (No. 6 with 20 systems) and Huawei (No. 7 with 19 systems).

The Top500 list is considered one of the most authoritative rankings of the world's supercomputers. It is compiled on the basis of the machines' performance on the Linpack benchmark by experts from the United States and Germany.
: A car burst into flames after it crashed into a police van on the Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris on Monday, police and investigators said, adding that the driver was armed and it appeared to be a "deliberate" act.Interior ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said police had pulled the driver out of the flaming vehicle and he was "very likely dead."Police had said earlier that the driver of the Renault Megane was "seriously injured" and "on the ground... unconscious."No police or bystanders were injured in the incident near the Grand Palais exhibition hall."Apparently, it's a deliberate act," a source close to the investigation said.Anti-terrorism prosecutors have opened an investigation.Police have closed two of the metro stations on the Champs-Elysees, a major tourist draw in the French capital.The incident came just two months after a policeman was shot and killed on the world-renowned avenue, three days before the first round of France's presidential election.A note praising the Islamic State group was found next to the body of the gunman, Karim Cheurfi, in that incident.Police later found other weapons in Cheurfi's car including a shotgun and knives.French police secure the area at the scene of an incident in which a car rammed a gendarmerie van on the Champs-Elysees Avenue in Paris, France on June 19, 2017. (The incident on Monday was the latest in a string of attacks in London and Paris.Two weeks ago jihadists used a van and knives to crush and kill eight people enjoying a night out in the British capital. Three of the victims were French.Four days later, a hammer-wielding Algerian man was shot and wounded by police after he struck an officer on the head in front of Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.In a video found at his home, he had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.In London on Monday, a van ploughed into a crowd of Muslims near a London mosque early on Monday, leaving one person dead and injuring 10 others in the second terror attack this month in the British capital.France is still under a state of emergency imposed after the November 2015 attacks in Paris, when Islamic State jihadists killed 130 people in a night of carnage at venues across the city.Previous major attacks targeted the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine in January 2015 and in November that year, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked venues around Paris including the Bataclan concert hall, killing 130 people in all.
Paris: France voted a record number of women into parliament on Sunday, thanks largely to President Emmanuel Macron's decision to field a gender-balanced candidate list for his victorious Republic on the Move (LREM) party.



As of late Sunday evening there were 156 women lawmakers elected to France's National Assembly, already more than ever before, and with 148 seats as yet undecided.



Catherine Barbaroux, LREM's acting president, hailed the increase of women's share of parliamentary seats.



"For the first time under the Fifth Republic, the National Assembly will be deeply renewed - more diverse, younger," she said. "But above all, allow me to rejoice, because this is a historic event for the representation of women in the National Assembly."



Female parliamentary representation has increased steadily in France in recent years, with the 2012 elections seeing a record 155 women - 26.9 percent - voted in, up from 18.5 percent in the 2007 elections and 12.3 percent in 2002.



Yet although France has a system in which funding for political parties is restricted if women do not make up at least 49 percent of its parliamentary candidates, most parties still put up more men for election.



Even where women are put up for election, they tend to be in constituencies where they are unlikely to win, keeping the numbers of women who make it to the Palais-Bourbon low.



"En Marche...proactively decided to give winning seats to women," said 34-year-old Brune Poirson, who beat the FN to be elected to parliament in the Vaucluse district in southeastern France. "This is a really bold move."



"Normally political parties allocate women seats that are almost impossible to win, so they can say 'hey, we have as many female candidates as male,' but at the end of the day they never end up winning," added Poirson, who has no prior parliamentary experience but has master's degrees in political science from both Harvard and the London School of Economics.



Poirson decided to become a candidate in January when Macron sent a video to party members urging more women to put themselves forward.



"(Macron)... said: this is your responsibility as well - we need you. It was very powerful, and it really worked," she told Reuters.



"LONG WAY TO GO"



A macho culture in the upper echelons of power has characterised French politics in the past, but there have been signs in recent times that the veil is lifting on acts that would previously have gone unreported.



Last year Denis Baupin resigned as vice-president of the National Assembly after being accused of sexual harassment by fellow politicians. Shortly after that, the then finance minister Michel Sapin admitted to behaving inappropriately toward a female journalist.



33-year-old Laurianne Rossi, a former assistant to a Socialist senator who was elected to Hauts-de-Seine, on the Western outskirts of Paris, said even with the increase in female lawmakers, it would take time to make a real difference.



"There is still a long way to go before we get real equality between women and men in France...(but) the arrival of so many more women at the National Assembly will really help," she said.



Frances Scott, founder of Britain's 50:50 Parliament, a cross-party group campaigning for gender balance in parliament, said the number of women elected would spur parties in other countries to field more female candidates. Britain set its own record in elections on June 8, with 30 percent of parliamentary seats going to women.



"It looks like France is leading the way in terms of this democratic imperative," said Scott.



"The evidence suggests that having more women in parliament leads to more informed and more responsive decision-making. It leads to a better parliament."
Tehran: Irans Revolutionary Guard said it launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group.



The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called terror bases.



The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were in retaliation for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS. Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed, the statement said.



It said the attack targeted a command base. of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor, Syrias oil-rich eastern province. On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, vowed to avenge the bloodshed. Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was promoting terrorist groups in Iran.



The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon. Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of volunteer fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syrias conflict broke out in March 2011. According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.
Beirut: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei lashed out on Sunday at US President Donald Trumps administration and what he characterised as its hostility to the Islamic Republic.



This inexperienced group has not recognised the people and leaders of Iran, he said, according to the website for state TV. When they get hit in the mouth, at that time they'll know whats going on.

Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials have ramped up their criticism of the United States in recent weeks after Trump went on an official visit last month to Saudi Arabia, Iran's main regional rival.



During that visit, Trump singled out Iran as a key source of funding and support for militant groups. He has also criticized the nuclear deal between Iran and six major powers, including the United States, that led to the lifting of most sanctions against Iran, in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Trump has said Washington would review the deal but stopped short of pledging to scrap it.



Iran and the United States cut diplomatic ties shortly after Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution and enmity to Washington has long been a rallying point for hardline supporters of Khamenei in Iran.



Khamenei has accused the United States and its regional ally Saudi Arabia of funding hardline Sunni militants, including Islamic State, which carried out its first attack in Iran earlier this month, killing 17 people.



Riyadh has denied involvement in the suicide bombings and gun attacks on Iran's parliament and the mausoleum of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Khamenei said in his speech on Sunday that any efforts to destabilize the Islamic Republic would not succeed.



In the past 38 years, when has there been a time when you haven't wanted to change the Islamic system? Khamenei said, according to Fars News. Your head has hit the rock each time and always will.
Bamako: Suspected jihadists crying "Allahu Akbar" stormed a tourist resort popular with foreigners on the edge of the Malian capital Bamako, briefly seizing hostages and leaving at least two people dead.



The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.



Security forces have said that the four assailants have been killed by them. "We have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed", Security Minister Salif Traore told journalists, adding that they were "searching for the bodies of two others", without specifying if any more were on the run.



Security forces battled the gunmen at the site, with nearby residents reporting hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.



"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened," Traore told AFP. "Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese."



He said the second body was being identified, adding: "Operations are ongoing. We are searching room by room."

A source close to the case said the number of hostages freed was raised to 32, but there was no immediate information on their nationalities.



At least 14 people, both Malians and foreigners, were injured, the ministry said.



An official from the security ministry confirmed earlier that Malian special forces, backed up by UN soldiers and troops from a French counter-terrorism force "have sealed off the area and are in the process of organising operations" against the attackers.



The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.



French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Bamako on July 2 for a meeting with five Sahel countries, "is following the situation very closely," the presidency told AFP on Sunday.



Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest)", although no group has yet claimed responsibility.



The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month "of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent".



In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.



That attack was claimed by Al-Qaeda's North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).



In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.



The Kangaba, located on the eastern edge of Bamako, boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools, according to its website.



A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months, but attacks are continuing.



In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.



But jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.



The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.



Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists.



In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou. AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.



In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two Special Forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.



The United Nations has a 12,000-strong force in Mali known as MINUSMA, which began operations in 2013.



It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed, including five on Saturday.



France also has 4,000 soldiers in its Bakhane force in five countries  Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso  all of which are threatened by the jihadists across their porous borders.
: Unidentified gunmen killed four Tourists at a Mali luxury resort popular with Western expatriates just outside the capital Bamako, and one other guest is still missing, authorities said on Monday.One of the victims of Sunday's attack was a Portuguese soldier working with the European Union military training mission, Portugal's Armed Forces state HQ said in a statement.Mali's security ministry had identified one of the victims as French-Gabonese. A security source said a third victim was Cameroonian while the fourth had yet to be identified.Security forces backed by French and U.N. troops mobilised quickly when the attack was underway, rescuing 36 residents including 13 French citizens.Security Minister Salif Traore told Radio France International on Monday that "five terrorists were killed" in operations that continued throughout the night.An armoured vehicle drives towards Le Campement Kangaba resort following an attack where gunmen stormed the resort in Dougourakoro in Mali in this still frame taken from video June 18, 2017. ("This was without doubt a terrorist attack," he told the radio station.The resort was still cordoned off by late morning on Monday as a Malian anti-terrorist squad combed the area for the missing person, a Reuters witness said. A U.N. mission helicopter was circling overhead.Traore said the militants had some accomplices who had not been killed or detained. On Sunday night, authorities reported that two of the assailants had been killed.No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.French troops and a 10,000-strong U.N. peacekeeping force have been battling to stabilise Mali, a former French colony, ever since France intervened in 2013 to push back jihadists and allied Tuareg rebels who had taken over the country's desert north a year earlier.Al Qaeda in the Islamic Magreb and other Islamist groups have claimed attacks on Western targets in Mali and the wider West Africa region in the past.French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to the leader of Mali after the attack and pledged France's full support for the country, Macron's office said on Monday."I am tired, shocked. I have no other words to say," the resort owner Manou Morgane, a French national, told Reuters TV overnight. "All I want to do is to see the list of my clients. I want to find them (anyone missing)."
CROZET  Thirteen years ago when King Family Vineyards opened its Roseland Polo Club matches to the public in Albemarle County, owner David King said only five or six cars would show up.

Now, it isnt uncommon for 600 to 700 people to show up on a Sunday afternoon in the summer to tailgate, drink wine and watch polo.

The growth has been organic over the past several years, he said.

Games held every Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Crozet-based vineyard from the end of May to the end of October are free and open to the public.

Groups of family and friends were on each side of the field sitting under tailgate tents drinking wine, eating food and playing cornhole during Sundays festivities.

Scott Shahan, who visited with his family from Glen Allen on Sunday, said he has tried to come up for a while to see what all the talk was about concerning the polo matches but every game he tried to observe was rained out.

Winery, friends, food, horses, beautiful weather, cant say more than that, Shahan said after his visit Sunday was successful. And it happens to be Fathers Day and were just enjoying this beautiful day.

Chris Oakley, of Palmyra, just moved to the Charlottesville area from Florida four months ago and said the polo created an awesome atmosphere.

Everyone has been extremely nice and very friendly; its a big difference from here [compared] to Florida, he joked. King and his family had one priority in mind when looking for a farm to locate to in the mid-1990s: 12 acres of flat ground for a polo field.

King has played polo since 1980 and is described by current players as one of the best on the team.

The King family bought the farm in 1996 and two years later decided to go into the winery business and started growing grapes.

In 2002, the family bought a production facility and a tasting room. A few years later, they expanded to add a larger tasting room and event space. The farm now is about 380 acres.

King said all the polo players are local to the Charlottesville area, many of whom are current or former University of Virginia polo players such as 22-year-old Jacquelyn Henley.

Henley, a graduate of UVa, has ridden horses since she was 5 years old.

My riding background was already pretty strong but polo is a whole other experience, she said.

She explained all other disciplines involving horseback riding requires intense focus of the horse but polo requires players to think about the sport and themselves and forget about the horse.

You have to become one with the horse and just forget about them because if youre thinking about the horse, you miss the play, you forget about the ball and arent riding properly, she said. Youre not meticulous thinking, thinking, thinking  you use your natural riding skills and its a whole riding competition.

She said the group is very inclusive and family-centered even though she admits the team can be competitive at times.

Were all for each other, she said. It can be scary but we have some fantastic horses.

King himself has a barn on site with about 15 horses.

He said the popular sport has grown by word of mouth as the company does no advertising except from its website.

He said he thinks people enjoy coming to the vineyard and watching polo in a setting surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains and partaking in what he describes as a class Virginian tailgate.
(Xinhua) 19:02, June 19, 2017

BEIJING, June 19 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Monday that the BRICS cooperation will be more productive and usher in a new "golden decade."

Xi made the remarks when meeting with the heads of delegations from Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa who are in Beijing to attend the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting.

The BRICS cooperation mechanism has been in existence for ten years and BRICS members have focused on development, which not only benefits the people in the five countries but also offers a recipe for the world to address food and security problems, Xi said.

"BRICS countries are a community of shared interests and future," Xi said, urging the countries to give full play to the win-win spirit and jointly contribute to the development of the organization.
The short-lived shared umbrella scheme recently returned to Shanghai streets after a debut that ended in all the umbrellas going missing. Pictures indicate that about 50 colorful umbrellas were attached to sidewalk railings with combination locks near a bus stop in the city's Pudong district.

The shared umbrellas made their first appearance in late May. Users can rent the umbrellas after installing an app and paying a deposit of 20 RMB.

As a newcomer to China's sharing-economy boom, the umbrellas quickly attracted public attention. However, few citizens had the chance to take part in the scheme because all the umbrellas quietly vanished overnight. According to the Shanghai Morning post, some were likely removed by city employees due to a lack of government approval. Meanwhile, the company denied ever receiving a notice that banned the umbrellas.

A major factor behind the disappearances is that the umbrellas don't contain GPS devices, meaning they cannot be retrieved from users like shared bikes can, the company explained.
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DCFAs Joyful Two preview concert

The two groups will present a preview concert, Joyful Two, on Sunday at the Holy Rosary RC Church, , Henry Street in Port of Spain at 6pm. Jessel Murray, senior lecturer at UWI and head of the Department of Festival and Creative Arts (DCFA), will conduct the ensembles.

To tour to Belize and Mexico will kick-start the DCFAs 30th anniversary celebrations.

The tour is from July 18 to 28.

UWI is the largest institution of higher learning in the English- speaking Caribbean with campuses in Trinidad, Barbados, Jamaica, and the Open Campus. Belize is part of the Open Campus system. In Belize, the chorale and steel will be hosted by the University of Belize and will perform formal concerts at various locations, including the countrys premier concert site, the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, as well as the University of Belize in the capital, Belmopan.

While at the university, the two groups will form part of the installation ceremony of Prof Clement Sankat as the president of the university.

Sankat was most recently the principal of UWI, St Augustine.

In Mexico, the chorale and steel have been invited to perform at the University of Quintana Roo in Chetumal.

Previous tours by the chorale and steel have included performances in Barbados, Martinique, Massachusetts and New York.

Joyful Two is a melange of performances featuring exciting performances by the UWI Arts Chorale and Steel  as well as vocal and pan soloists.

The chorale performs excerpts from the Brahms Ziguenerlieder (Gypsy Songs) in the original German, as well as Broadway selections, folk and calypso music including their well-known treatment of David Rudders Calypso Music.

The steel performs the world premiere of a Jeannine Remy work, Overture, as well as arrangements of classic and not so classic calypso/soca  Pan in Harmony and Ah Feeling ah Feeling, among others. Together, the chorale and steel perform the famous and popular Schubert Mass in G, originally set for voices and strings. The programme is enlivened with pan solos as well as solos and duos from the chorales vast treasury of musical theatre, including Andrew Lloyd Webber selections and the virtuoso Glitter and Be Gay aria from Candide sung by soloist Sadie Baxter.

Tickets cost $150 each and are available from UWI Arts Chorale and UWI Arts Steel members, the Rosary Church Office and at the Department of Creative and Festival Arts.
IRO president advises fathers to take responsibility

I think more and more people who can turn their lives in that direction can become instruments in helping to propagate more spirituality in our society.

I think that would certainly be welcomed by all, Maharaj said in response to a Sunday Newsday article about Johns observances as both a biological father to his three children and an earthly shepherd (or Father) to his congregation.

Maharaj said he knew people who made that decision while their spouses were still alive saying that should be a consensual decision and not an individual decision.

Like in the case of some men, the wife is happy that he turned to spirituality and not that he is leaving and going into another relationship. I feel that is a positive move in society. Asked what his advice would be to the nations fathers, he said, We need to be a little bit more responsible and accepting your responsibility is the biggest thing.
An opportunity to help those who have gone astray

In a release last week, Kambon said in a society saturated with news of brutal crimes, the robbery and assault of a man of the cloth caused a shock wave across the country. The RC priest was robbed and tied up last Monday by armed bandits at the St Martin de Porres RC Church in Gonzales, Belmont, where he had spent the night preparing for a seminar at Mt St Benedict.

Since the incident, Harvey says, he has forgiven his assailants.

Kambon said it was the location of the crime  a church, a place of worship  that accounted for the emotional uproar from the public.

However, he said violations by robbers of places associated with sanctity had long ago led to iron bars and electronics to protect many such places.

The shock and anger provoked by this crime had to do with the societys measure of the man who was tied and robbed. He was a priest, but not just any priest. It was Fr Clyde Harvey, known not only for words, but for deeds which bear witness to the sincerity of this nationally treasured human being.

His words and deeds have communicated so deeply to many young men who were trapped in the state of mind of his attackers that some have changed their lives fundamentally. Many others who have heard his appeals and witnessed his caring, but have not transformed their own lives (or not yet), for various reasons, would not even think of harming him, he said.

In fact, Kambon said if a delinquent was in a position to prevent what had happened to Harvey, they would not have allowed anyone else to do it. While they still have to overcome the psychological and material pressures they feel from stigma, from social and economic marginalisation in the society, they hold Fr Harvey in high esteem because he speaks to their humanity, presents them with the hope of uplift, he said.

Kambon said the committee was deeply saddened that a brother with so much love and compassion, one with whom they felt a close kinship, had to undergo such an ordeal. However, he said he knew Harveys faith, inner strength and commitment would ensure he continued on the path of reforming lives that needed to be touched by such a caring spirit.

There are those who would see in his pain the justification for collective punishment of the community which they instinctively blame and similar communities they see in the same light. We suggest they consult with Fr Harvey about what may work without being led by guns and a spirit of revenge.

This may just be the moment for a broader consultation, which includes voices from the smouldering communities, to find a way forward, a path out of the downward spiral of violence destroying so many of our communities and potentially escalating into far more bloody confrontations between the armed forces of the state and armed gangs and individuals. Kambon urged the population to find ways to overcome not only the internal sources of increasing violence, but the ways in which the wider society contributed to the despair and the low self esteem underlying the tragic situations. He said one must include the criminal behaviour of the enablers of the gangs, those for whom they sold the drugs and imported and supplied the guns, those who paid for hits. While we cannot speak for Fr Harvey, we firmly believe that he would welcome a coming together of State and non-state actors with a commitment driven by a sense of humanity to resolve the escalating crisis, Kambon said.
Calls for focus to be placed on parental kidnapping

The event centered on the theme Fatherhood in Society: Issues and Solutions and the discussions focused on the absence of legislation governing parental kidnapping and parental alienation.

Gregoire-Roopchan said the authority also does psycho-social intervention to restore the childs functioning and this focuses heavily on co-parent intervention so that the parents become aware of how their behaviour impacts on the child and make progressive steps to being the child back into focus.

One of the highlights of the session was input from Scott Berne of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, described as a survivor of parental kidnapping.

Speaking via Skype, he told participants he was abducted by his mother after the bitter divorce of his parents.

He said he was nine years old when his parents divorced and he was placed in the custody of his father.

However, on their first unsupervised visit together, his mother abducted him.

He told the meeting of two years of brainwashing, during which his mother changed his name and warned him against talking to the police if he was stopped. He said he was brainwashed by his mother to the extent that he believed that his father was dead. He said he was kept out of school for two years, had no friends and did not even know his own name.

He said that he was forced to move from place to place at short notice and even when she was caught, his mother did not surrender and had to be arrested and jailed.

Berne said he was placed in Juvenile Hall and his recovery was long and hard and it took him a long time to move from being a victim to a survivor.

President of the association Rhondall Feeles said parental kidnapping is an offence against a child and most children who go through parental kidnapping suffer as Berne did. He asked why parents would commit such an offence against their own child. Saying it was an act of domestic abuse, he insisted that there should be deterrence and consequences in local legislation.

Also addressing the gathering was Jennifer Alleyne of National Family Services. She said that the kidnapping of children is not the only abuse they suffer.

She said sometimes one parent wants to leave a dysfunctional relationship and may remove the child or children from the home, taking them to some other relative.

She said the parent might migrate to the United States with the promise of sending for the children at a later date.

Alleyne said children in such situations suffer loss of identity, wondering about who they are, and where their mothers were.

She advised parents to be very careful when making decisions about their children.
Matelot and Grand Riviere farmers and fisherfolk receive relief cheques

At a function hosted at the St Helena Community Centre, Matelot, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries Avinash Singh said his ministry is aware of the challenges faced by the farmers and fisherfolk and is committed to serving the people and ensuring good governance.

In a media release, the ministry said this relief was aimed at assisting those who were affected by the damage after bad weather conditions late last year.

Leroy Peters, president of the Grande Riviere Farmers Association said after the disaster in 2016, he considered giving up farming.

However, based on the support received thus far from the ministry, he sees the cheques not as a hand-out but rather it is that the ministry is working with farmers. I am encouraged. The event also included the distribution of equipment to the farmers associations of Grande Riviere and Matelot, along with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the ministry and the two associations for the use of these pieces of equipment which included chain saws and pruning saws.

Other speakers included Len Peters, community member; Raynaldo Phillips, Forester II, Forestry Division, Kirk Armour, director  regional administration north; Leroy Peters and Louanna Martin, Fisheries Officer, Fisheries Division.

Also in attendance was Terry Rondon, chairman of the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation.
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Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Elmira Tariverdiyeva  Trend:

The OSCE Minsk Group (MG) encourages the sides of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the line of contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, says a statement by the OSCE MG co-chairs, issued June 19.

The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June, says the statement.

The main purpose of the co-chairs visit was to discuss the position of the sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (April 28), as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone, according to the statement.

The co-chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan on June 10 and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on June 19, as well as held consultations with the two countries foreign and defense ministers, says the statement.

In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh.

In their talks in Baku, the co-chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the line of contact on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan.

They appealed to the conflict sides to avoid further escalation, says the statement.

In both capitals, the co-chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will, according to the statement. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement.

The co-chairs will travel to Vienna to brief the members of the Minsk Group on July 3, says the statement. They also plan to meet again soon with the Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers to discuss modalities of the forthcoming work.

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.
NATO has a weak spot along the Poland-Lithuania border, a 65-mile-long frontier in an area known as the Suwalki Gap that, if seized by Russia, would cut off not just Lithuania but Latvia and Estonia from the rest of the Western alliance. Over two days recently, the first large-scale NATO defensive drill was conducted there, Reuters reports. US and British troops ran the war games alongside troops from Poland, Lithuania, and Croatia, simulating a defense of the area despite the fact that Russia denies having plans to invade the Baltics. Lithuania's intelligence service says Russia could attack the Baltics with as little as a day's notice.

"The gap is vulnerable because of the geography. It's not inevitable that there's going to be an attack, of course, but ... if that was closed, then you have three allies that are north that are potentially isolated from the rest of the alliance," US Lieutenant General Ben Hodges tells Reuters. AFP further explains that the Suwalki Gap is "sandwiched between Russia's highly militarized Kaliningrad exclave and Belarus, a close Kremlin ally." NATO began building up forces in the Baltic states after Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea peninsula in the Black Sea in 2014, a move that caused NATO to start viewing Russia as more of an adversary. Russia has claimed the build-up is making the area less stable. (Read more Poland stories.)
In what authorities say is being treated as a terrorist attack, at least one person was killed when a van plowed into worshippers outside a mosque in north London early Monday. Police say a 48-year-old man was arrested after the vehicle ran into people that had left Finsbury Park Mosque just after midnight, the BBC reports. Witnesses say it was clear that the man was deliberately trying to run people over. "There were loads of people coming out and the van took a left and went straight into them," a worshipper tells the Evening Standard. "The crowd caught a guy. He tried to do a London Bridge thing." At least eight people were injured.

Some witnesses said the driver attempted to stab people after the attack, though local hospitals say they are not treating anybody with stab wounds. The van is believed to have been rented in Wales. London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the attack as an assault on "innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan"and on "all our shared values of tolerance, freedom, and respect," the Guardian reports. Khan said extra police have been deployed to protect communities celebrating Ramadan. The New York City Police Department says it has also sent additional police officers to protect mosques. (Read more London stories.)
Jared Kushner isn't retreating into a smaller role despite investigators' interest in his Russian business deals. The Wall Street Journal reports that he's off to Israel this week on one of the most high-profile foreign policy pursuits of all: Mideast peace. The presidential son-in-law is due to arrive Wednesday. He's expected to meet in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and in Ramallah with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, though he won't be sitting down with both sides at the same time. No major breakthroughs are expected in the meetings, during which Kushner will be accompanied by President Trump's top rep on peace negotiations, Jason Greenblatt.

It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr. Kushner and Mr. Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region," says a White House statement. Still, the Washington Post sees it as a clear sign that Trump has not lost confidence in Kushner despite the widening Russian investigation. Kushner has promised to cooperate with investigators in that inquiry, though he may do so with a new legal team: The New York Times reports that his aides are in touch with big-name criminal lawyers to represent him. One of their worries is that current lawyer Jamie Gorelick once worked as a law partner with Robert Mueller, the special counsel. (Read more Jared Kushner stories.)
Police have arrested a 40-year-old man in Australia after they found a Nazi sub-machine gun and 60 rounds of ammunition in the car he was riding in during a traffic stop. New South Wales police say they're performing a forensic exam in order to determine whether the weapon can be linked to other incidents, and the man is being denied bail on a prohibited weapons charge while they do so. "It's a very robust weapon," Shane Casey, senior curator at the Australian War Memorial, tells ABC Australia. "Anyone who is interested in Germany army history or the second World War would recognize this weapon immediately."

Australia's strict gun control laws require that all firearms be registered and that people who use them have a license to do so. Just last week, the country initiated a national gun amnesty in response to growing terrorism threats and the flow of illicit firearms across its borders, reports the BBC. Anyone found with prohibited weapons can face up to 14 years in prison or fines that exceed $200,000. In 1996, a similar amnesty went into effect in response to shootings in Port Arthur, Tasmania, that led to 35 deaths. After destroying 650,000 firearms in that amnesty, the BBC notes that gun crimes dropped quickly. (There have been no mass shootings in Australia since the 1996 amnesty.)
A Colorado physician who was fatally shot while trying to help his neighbor after she was wounded in a domestic shooting is one of 19 people being honored with Carnegie medals for heroism, the AP reports. Dr. Kenneth R. Atkinson, 65, ran out of his Centennial home when he heard a neighbor shooting at his wife and another woman, whose home the wife had run to for cover on April 4, 2016. As Atkinson kneeled to attend to his wounded neighbor and called 911, he was shot by the suspect in the leg, and then fatally shot as he tried to take cover behind a vehicle. The shooting suspect, Kevin Lee Lyons, pleaded not guilty in March to 14 charges, including first-degree murder.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission investigates stories of heroism and awards medals and cash several times a year. Three others honored Monday died in rescue attempts, including Sean C. Randles, 49, of Las Vegas. He died on May 28, 2016, when he tried to save a hiker from falling over a 50-foot cliff when she slipped in a stream at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. He grabbed the woman's hand in an attempt to save her, before both fell to their deaths. Another person being honored is Brian G. Bergkamp, 24, of Cheney, Kansas, who drowned trying to help a 26-year-old woman whose kayak went over a dam and overturned in July 2016. She survived. (Read more Carnegie Hero Medals stories.)
The US military shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet Sunday that bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against ISIS militants, an action that appeared to mark a new escalation of the conflict. The US had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation, said Navy Capt. Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman. While the US has said since it began recruiting, training, and advising what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces to fight ISIS that it would protect them from potential Syrian government retribution, this was the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise, the AP reports.

The US-led coalition headquarters in Iraq said in a statement that a US F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the US partner forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces. The shootdown was near Tabqa, a Syrian town in an area that has been a weekslong focus of fighting against ISIS militants by the SDF as they surround the city of Raqqa and attempt to retake it from ISIS. The US military statement said it acted in "collective self-defense" of its partner forces and that the US did not seek a fight with the Syrian government or its Russian supporters. "The coalition's mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria," the Pentagon said. (Read more Syria stories.)
Police in Indonesia are hunting for four foreigners who tunneled out of a prison in Bali, the BBC reports. The men escaped from Kerobokan Prison by crawling through a 39-foot-long tunnel dug under the walls, per Reuters. The prison chief says "we suspect it took more than a week to build" the 20-by-30-inch escape route. It was found filled with water on Monday morning. The inmates are believed to still be on the Indonesian resort island.

Kerobokan houses 1,379 inmates, four times the official capacity, many of them foreigners. The men were serving sentences for drug, fraud, and immigration offenses, per Reuters. Australian escapee Shaun Edward Davidson, 33, had only two and a half months left to serve. The other men hailed from Bulgaria, India, and Malaysia. (Indonesia considered a prison guarded by crocodiles.)
New Yorks Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is giving online viewers a chance to time travel back to 1911 New York via a rare, nine-minute film available on its website until July 14. According to the museum, Swedish company Svenska Biografteatern filmed the black-and-white footage, depicting everyday life in the Big Apple as the viewer is taken around bridges, waterways, elevated trains, and famous buildings to sites like the Statue of Liberty.

The documentary travelogue was part of an international project to make films of the days most well-known places, like Paris, Monte Carlo, and Venice, though the museum says it only houses the New York City footage. Per Curbed, New York 1911 is part of an initiative by the museum to digitize parts of its collection and make them more widely available. This restoration was derived from the original nitrate print of the film and put to music by silent film composer Ben Model. (Read more MoMA stories.)
The world broke a grim record last year, with 65.6 million people living forcibly displaced from their homes, an increase of 300,000 over 2015. Most of those people40.3 millionwere displaced but still living within their own countries, per a new report by the UN refugee agency. The rest had fled their native countries, with that figure broken down into 22.5 million refugees and 2.8 million people "seeking asylum." Of the total 65.6 million people displaced, 10.3 million of them became so in 2016. The statistics reflect dire situations in countries such as Syria, which has been ravaged by a six-year civil war, and South Sudan, which, the UN report states, has suffered from a disastrous breakdown of peace efforts.

The New York Times reports that Syria produced the most refugees last year, with 5.5 million, while nearly 750,000 fled South Sudan. Turkey hosts the largest number of refugees (2.9 million), with Lebanon taking in the most displaced persons relative to the size of its population (one in six), reports Thomson Reuters. One glimmer of good news in the UN report is that there has been a slowing in the growth of displacement worldwide. The number of people uprooted within their own countries was down slightly last year, as was the number of asylum seekers. Those numbers were offset, however, by an increase in the number of refugees to 22.5 million, the highest number reported since the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees office was formed in 1950. (Read more refugees stories.)
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

Armenias recent provocations on the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops are deliberate and aim at escalating the situation and disrupting the negotiations, Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov told a meeting with the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs in Baku.

The importance of changing the current status-quo, which is unsustainable and unacceptable, through substantive negotiations was emphasized at the meeting of FM Mammadyarov with OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs Stephane Visconti, Igor Popov, Richard Hoagland and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry said.

Elmar Mammadyarov noted that in line with the proposals on the table, the withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan is crucial for achieving progress in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflicts settlement.

He also mentioned the illegal activities, including establishment of settlements, destruction of cultural heritage, organization of illegal flights and other illegal economic actions conducted by Armenia in the occupied Azerbaijani territories. He added that such illegal activities by Armenia seriously impede the negotiation process.

At the meeting, the sides also noted the importance of intensifying the negotiation process.

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.
"It was like a horror movie," says a survivor of Portugal's deadliest fire on record, and like in a horror movie, she survived by finding a good hiding spot. The BBC reports Maria do Ceu Silva and 11 others made it through the fearsome blaze by hiding for more than six hours in the water tank outside her home in Nodeirinho, which sits adjacent to the IC8 motorway that ended up littered with bodies of those trying to flee. Silva says the idea came to her after she was unable to get her 95-year-old disabled mother in a van to exit the area. More than 2,000 firefighters continue to battle the fires, one of which killed 62 people some 90 miles north of Lisbon, as authorities are coming under mounting criticism for not doing more to prevent the tragedy, reports the AP.

Portugal's leading environmental lobby group, Quercus, issued a statement Monday blaming the blazes on "forest management errors and bad political decisions" over recent decades. The association rebuked authorities for allowing the planting of huge swathes of eucalyptus, the country's most common and most profitable speciesbut one that's often blamed for stoking blazes. Emergency services have been criticized for not closing a road where 47 of the deaths occurred as people fled the flames. Wildfires are an annual scourge in Portugal: Between 1993 and 2013, Portugal recorded the highest annual number of forest fires in southern Europe, per a 2016 report by the European Environment Agency. Reuters reports that police believe the blaze began when lightning hit a tree. (Read more Portugal stories.)
Though its only been two days since a judge declared a mistrial in the sexual assault case of Bill Cosby, the comedians criminal defense attorney is already expressing confidence that his client will be acquitted if he's tried again. "[W]e have a wonderful criminal justice system in this country, Brian McMonagle told ABCs Good Morning America on Monday. Trust it, believe in it, and Im confident that if this case is retried, hell be acquitted. On Saturday, after six days in the courtroom followed by 52 hours of deliberation, the seven men and five women of the jury in Norristown, Pa., were unable to render a unanimous verdict on any of the three counts of aggravated indecent assault against Cosby, forcing Judge Steven T. O'Neill to declare a mistrial.

Prosecutors have declared their intent to bring a new case against Cosby, and ONeill has said the second case could begin within months, reports the New York Times. The prosecution will likely spend much of that time filing motions to allow the testimony of 13 women who have accused Cosby of sexual assault, establishing a pattern that would likely bolster the case of their client, Andrea Constand, who accused Cosby of assaulting her in 2004. Both sides would also benefit from knowing why the jury deadlocked on a decision in the first trial, but so far none of the 12 members has spoken on the record, though the Washington Post reports that one of the alternate members told a Pittsburgh radio station on Monday that if he had sat on the jury, he would have voted to convict. (Read more Bill Cosby stories.)
An anti-terror investigation has been opened in France after a man rammed a car carrying firearms and a gas canister into a police van on Paris' famed Champs Elysees Monday afternoon. The driver, reportedly a 31-year-old French national who had known links to suspected extremists and was on a terror watchlist, was killed in the incident; no other injuries were reported. France's interior minister described the incident as an "attempted attack" on a convoy of police vehicles that were on the avenue, the Guardian reports. An explosion followed the collision, and a journalist on the scene says he saw police break the car's windows in order to pull the driver out. Bomb squad officers were on the scene, the AP reports. (Read more Paris stories.)
Walls arent the only thing President Trump enjoys touting. According to Politico, Trump gave props to the Panama Canal during Panamanian president Juan Carlos Varelas visit to the Oval Office Monday. The White House blog recounts the remarks made during press availability at the meeting. After Trump greets Varela and his wife, he asserts, And we have many things to discuss. Were going to spend quite a bit of time todaythe Panama Canal is doing quite well. I think we did a good job building it, right? To which Varela responds, One hundred years ago. Trump goes on to call the relationship between Panama and the US very strong and praises the friendship between the two countries.

The Washington Post reports that the leaders spoke about a range of topics including security, economic issues, and fighting drug trafficking. But Trumps comments about the canal, which was completed in 1914, are dominating headlines. Meanwhile, jokesters are having a field day on Twitter, where the moment has already turned into a meme. Varela reportedly invited Trump to visit Panama, where the Post notes Vice President Pence is traveling in August. Pence tweeted that he was pleased to meet with Varela and his cabinet, who will be visiting Washington for four days. (Read more Donald Trump stories.)
Otto Warmbier, the US student detained in North Korea and recently freed after almost a year and a half, died Monday afternoon, his family says in a statement obtained by the Washington Post. Warmbier returned to the US in a coma and never awoke; in the statement, his family says "the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today." Doctors had described Warmbier as being in a state of "unresponsive wakefulness" after having experienced a "severe neurological injury."

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati late on June 13th he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands," the statement reads. "He looked very uncomfortablealmost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changedhe was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that." The family thanks everyone who kept Warmbier in their thoughts, and the "University of Cincinnati Medical Center who did everything they could for Otto." (Read more Otto Warmbier stories.)
Travel chaos after arson attacks on Germany's rail network ahead of G20

Berlin : Rail passengers in Germany on Monday saw their travel plans hit by delays and cancellations after suspected arson attacks overnight caused fires to break out across parts of the nation's railway network.

Security forces were working to establish whether the fires were started as part of a coordinated vandalism effort or whether there was a political motive, Efe news reported.

"This morning, there were 12 arson attacks on German railway installations between 1 a.m. and 4.30 a.m.," police in the federal state of Saxony (east Germany) said in a statement posted on Facebook. Four of the fires were reported in the Leipzig area, according to police.

"There is an assumption that the fires are linked. A political motivation, such as in relation to the G20 summit in Hamburg, has not been ruled out," the police statement said in reference to an upcoming G20 meeting from July 7-8 in the northern port city.

Railway company Deutsche Bahn warned passengers of cancellations and delays in Hamburg and Lubeck in the north, and Leipzig in the east due to "vandalism damage."

The company said regional trains were experiencing delays in Cologne, Dusseldorf, Dortmund and Bochum in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Police in the capital Berlin said they were investigating a cable fire near the Treptower Park S-Bahn (suburban rail) station, while police in Saxony -- where Leipzig is located -- asked for witnesses to come forward with information on the fires.
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Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has sent a congratulatory letter to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

I gratefully received your congratulatory letter on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, Hassan Rouhani said to Ilham Aliyev in the letter. I also offer my heartfelt congratulations to Your Excellency on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries.

In the past 25 years, the two friendly and fraternal countries, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, have taken big steps to expand relations to our common benefit and based on mutual respect, said the letter. I express my confidence that given our peoples` common interests, good neighborly relations between the two countries will further deepen through our increased efforts to ensure our interests at bilateral, regional and international levels.

I would like to take this opportunity to pray to Allah the Almighty for your robust health and success and for prosperity and well-being of the government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Iranian president said.
Details added (first version posted at 10:57)

Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Saleumxay Kommasith June 19.

It is my honor to pay my first official visit to your beautiful country, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Saleumxay Kommasith told President Aliyev. Taking this opportunity, we would like to extend President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Bounnhang Vorachiths greetings to you. Please accept my best wishes for your new achievements and for prosperity of your people.

President Ilham Aliyev thanked FM Kommasith for warm words, saying Azerbaijan is keen to expand cooperation with the Lao People's Democratic Republic. The head of state described Lao FM Saleumxay Kommasith's visit to Azerbaijan as a good indicator of mutual interest in strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries. President Ilham Aliyev expressed his hope that the issues of mutual interest and cooperation prospects will be discussed during FM Kommasith's visit to Azerbaijan.

FM Kommasith hailed the long history of the Azerbaijan-Laos relations, saying this relationship started at the time of the Soviet Union. He praised Azerbaijan's significant contributions to the socio-economic development as well as to staff training in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Lao FM Saleumxay Kommasith described Azerbaijan as the leading country in the region and praised its great strides. He emphasized the importance of reciprocal visits between the two countries.

They exchanged views on cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Lao People's Democratic Republic in a number of fields, including education and tourism.

The head of state expressed his gratitude for the greetings of President of the Lao People's Democratic Republic Bounnhang Vorachith and asked the FM to communicate his greetings to the Lao leader.
New Delhi:

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to US on June 25, Lockheed Martin on Monday collaborated with Tata Advanced Systems to build F-16 fighter planes in India, reports said. According to sources Lockheed Martin and Tata signed an agreement in Paris on the sidelines of the Paris Air Show.



Lockheed Martin moved a step closer with its plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant in order to get billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.



Indian Air Force requires to replace its Soviet-era fleet with hundreds of new aircrafts, but Modi government has said that the foreign suppliers would have to manufacture the planes in India in collaboration with a local partner. The government proposed this in a bid to help create a domestic industrial base and reduce imports.



Lockheed and Tata announced their agreement at the Paris Airshow. F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, a joint statement by the firms said.



Saab of Sweden is other contender to supply the Indian Air Force and offers to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not announced a local partner.

ALSO READ | Modi govt offers to buy 200 foreign fighter jets if they are 'made in India'

The announcement comes days before PM Modi visits US and meets President Donald Trump for the first time on June 26.

This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the worlds largest defense contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the worlds most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter, the statement said.

ALSO READ | Pakistan may use F-16 jets against India, say US lawmakers

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Mumbai:

Actress Anjali Srivastava on Monday allegedly committed suicide by hanging self with ceiling fan at her residence in Mumbai, reports said. Her body was found hanging with fan at her residence in Juhu, Andheri West. Police are investigating the matter.

The 29-year-old popular Bhojpuri actress was immediately rushed to Cooper hospital but was declared dead by the doctors.

The actress family kept calling her frantically, and after several unanswered messages and calls, they finally called up the society she lived in. On opening her house through a duplicate house key, they found the body hanging from the ceiling fan, sources were quoted as saying by Deccan Chronical.

No suicide note was recovered and the reason behind her death remains unknown.

She lived in Parimal society in Juhu lane in Andheri west. The police have not found any suicide note. Probe is on to find out why she took the extreme step, Mumbai Police spokesperson, DCP Rashmi Karandikar was quoted as saying.

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New Delhi:

In the 1993 Mumbai blast case, TADA court on Monday adjourned arguments on quantum of punishment for convicts till Tuesday. Abu Salem is among one of the convicts in the case.

Defence lawyer Abdul Wahab Khan moved application before TADA court to examine three witnesses for defence of his client Feroz Khan. TADA Court allowed application moved by Defence lawyer Abdul Wahab Khan to examine three witnesses.

Abdul Wahab Khan had made an application and sought 2 weeks time to prepare arguments on quantum of sentence. TADA court rejected his plea and said that the matter is urgent and cannot be adjourned for this long.

"Will argue for extreme punishment for all convicts Mumbai 1993 blast case," said CBI Lawyer.

Earlier on Friday, a special TADA court convicted six persons and acquitted one in the second leg of the trial in the case.

Several conspirators and masterminds of the worst terror attack on the country including underworld don Dawood Ibrahim, his right-hand man Chhota Shakeel and late Yakub Memons elder brother Tiger Memon are still absconding and are believed to be sheltered in Pakistan.

Also read: 1993 serial bomb blasts case: Special TADA court convicts 6 including Abu Salem, acquits 1 due to lack of evidence

Also read: 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case: Timeline of attack and trial



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New Delhi:

The Income Tax department seized the benami properties of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadavs daughter Misa Bharti, son-in-law Shailesh Kumar and son Tejashwi Yadav , who is also Bihar deputy chief minister, in connection with benami land deals and tax evasion case, according to reports in ANI on Monday.

The Income Tax Department had issued two summons to Misa Bharti to appear before Delhi investigation wing of the department but Bharti failed to appear. The department has seized properties raided in May.

Bharti was issued 2 summons to appear before Delhi investigation wing of IT dept but failed to appear. IT seized properties raided in May  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

The Income Tax had levied a penalty of Rs 10,000 against her for non-compliance of summons under section 131 of the Income Tax Act with a show cause notice to her in this regard.

The department wanted to question the couple to take the probe further in this case, where the taxman had conducted multiple searches in the month of May.

Also Read: ED arrests Misa Bhartis charted accountant in money laundering case

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New Delhi:

To seek clarifications in connection with an ongoing inquiry into allegations of money laundering against, the CBI on Monday went to Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jains residence to question his wife.

CBI sources said the agency had sought time from the ministers wife.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the central government of vendetta politics.

Central govt (sic) of BJP is misusing CBI for its vendetta politics. After Dy CM Manish Sisodia, BJPs CBI raids on Minister, the party said in a tweet.

CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry (PE) against the AAP minister in connection with the allegations of money laundering in April. He was recently examined by the agency in connection with the probe.

Jain is alleged to be involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, CBI sources said.

Also read: Money laundering case: CBI questions Delhi minister Satyendar Jain

Jain had dismissed the allegations after the Enforcement Directorate last month attached properties linked to him in the matter.

A PE is the first step by the CBI to gather information about allegations.

If the agency is convinced that there exists prima facie material in the matter, it may register a regular case against the accused.

Allegations against Jain also include purported money laundering to the tune of Rs 11.78 crore during 2010-12 through these companies and Indometal Impex Pvt Limited.

Also read: Sacked AAP minister Kapil Mishra alleges scam over shortage of medicines in govt hospitals

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New Delhi:

To probe the mysterious disappearance of Najeeb Ahmed, a CBI team on Monday visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). Najeeb Ahmed had gone missing from his hostel on October 16, 2016.

The team is looking into allegations of a scuffle between Ahmed and ABVP students in JNUs Mahi-Mandvi hostel and the circumstances that may have led to it as well as other events that preceded his disappearance.

It is likely to meet the suspects and people whose names have cropped up in the matter, sources said.

Najeebs mother Fatima Nafees recently met CBI officers who are investigating the case.

Also read: CBI interrogates Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jains wife in money laundering case

Also read: CBI team reaches Delhi Dy CM Manish Sisodia's home to seek clarifications in its probe in 'TalktoAK' campaign

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New Delhi:

A civilian was injured after terrorists attacked an Indian Army patrol Party in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Monday.A The terrorists opened fire on the Army jawans who were patrolling in the area.A

The civilian was injured in the retaliatory firing by the Amry. He was later shifted to a nearby hospital and his condition is stable.

J&K: Terrorists attack at an Army patrol party in Pulwama, one civilian injured in retaliatory firing by Army. pic.twitter.com/RR5SCQqCYC a ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Earlier, Militants on Sunday opened fire on an army convoy in Bijbehara town on Srinagar-Jammu highway.

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New Delhi:

One of the masterminds of Mumbai attacks, Abdul Rehman Makki addressed a press conference in Pakistan's Faisalabad on Sunday, wherein he called upon media to foster unrest in Kashmir.

"We urge journalists here to wield the power of pen and experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir," Makki said.



Hafiz Saeeds brother-in-law Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki took over as the chief of banned terrorist outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawah in March this year after former chief Saeed was confined to house arrest by Pakistan authorities.

Abdul Rehman Makki is also categorised as terrorist by the United Nations and carries a bounty of $ 2 million on his head.

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New Delhi:

BJP's Presidential candidate and Bihar Governor Ram Nath KovindA on Monday met Prime MinisterA NarendraA ModiA at the latter's officialA residence 7 Lok Kalyan Marg. BJP president Amit Shah was also present on the occasion.A

Earlier, Kovind thanked people of Bihar after being selected as NDA's candidate for Presidential poll.A

"My best wishes for prosperity and development of people of Bihar," Kovind said in an exclusive interaction withA NewsA Nation. A He further thanked people of Bihar for supporting him. "I thank the people of Bihar for their support," he said.A

Earlier, BJP President Amit Shah made the announcement of Kovind's name as NDA's candidate for Presidential poll after party's parliamentary board meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior party leaders.

Who is Ram Nath Kovind?

A A crusader for the rights of the weaker sections of the society, 71-year-old Ram Nath Kovind is a lawyer-turned-politician, whose choice as the BJP-led NDAas presidential candidate is being seen as a political masterstroke.

The reason a many parties would not like to oppose a Dalit being elected to the countryas highest office. A champion of the scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, OBC, minority and womenas rights from his student days, Kovind is the present Governor of Bihar.

A former president of the BJP Dalit Morcha (1998a2002), Kovind has also served as a national spokesperson of the party. He was also the president of the All-India Koli Samaj. On August 8, 2015, he was appointed as the Governor of Bihar.

A commerce graduate and LLB from the Kanpur University in Uttar Pradesh, Kovind has been a successful lawyer. He practiced in the Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and was the central governmentas standing counsel in the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993.

He was elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh and served two consecutive terms until March 2006. In Parliament, Kovind was a member of many important committees, especially the parliamentary committee on the welfare of scheduled castes/tribes, the parliamentary panel on social justice and empowerment and the committee on law and justice.

#WATCH: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind meets PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/dAhXJG9R20 a ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Kovind joined a stir by SC/ST employees when in 1997 certain orders were issued by the Centre which adversely affected their interests. These orders were later declared null and void after the passage of three amendments in the Constitution during the rule of the first NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

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New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday talked to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and reaffirmed Indias commitment to take forward the Paris climate agreement.

Trudeau had called up Modi this evening where the issue of Paris agreement came up for discussion.

Sharing details of the conversation through the prime ministers Twitter handle, the PMO said the two exchanged views on developments of mutual interest, specifically climate change.

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to take forward implementation of the Paris Agreement, the statement said.

PM Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to take forward implementation of the Paris Agreement.  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Modi congratulated Trudeau on the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation this year. He also appreciated the steady all round progress in diverse areas of bilateral engagement with Canada.

Both leaders agreed to continue communication and cooperation to promote stronger ties.

Also Read: Paris agreement: Govt, business leaders to endorse climate accord despite Trumps withdrawal

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Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Elena Kosolapova  Trend:

Azerbaijan is the only state in the South Caucasus region wherewith Romania has a strategic partnership, Romanian Foreign Ministry said in a message on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between two countries.

The ministry noted that Romania was the second country after Turkey to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan on December 11, 1991.

Romanian Foreign Ministry stressed that with its geostrategic position and natural resources, Azerbaijan can play an important role in strengthening Europe's energy security as well as in the East-West and North-South transport corridors.

Romania supports the implementation of the Southern Natural Gas Corridor project (which is already underway), which will contribute to the diversification of gas supply sources to European countries, the Foreign Ministry said.

At the same time Romania is interested in regional projects on the development of transport routes between Europe and Asia, according to the ministry.

The ministry also noted that Romania supports further development of EU-Azerbaijan relations, including the fast conclusion of a new, ambitious and comprehensive Framework Agreement to develop and deepen the provisions of the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement signed in 1999.

All this creates strong premises for the further development of the political and diplomatic dialogue, on a governmental and parliamentary level, as well as for the Romanian-Azerbaijani bilateral cooperation in all areas, the ministry said.

Follow the author on Twitter: @E_Kosolapova
New Delhi:

The Telugu Desam Party on Monday welcomed Bhartiya Janta Party's decision to put up Bihar Governor and Dalit leader Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's candidate for the presidential election.

Telugu Desam Party, which is also an NDA ally has announced its full support to BJP's choice for Kovind as the Presidential candidate. The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu termed Kovind's candidature as "the right choice" for the top Constitutional post.

"You have chosen a right candidate for the top post. An intellectual with high values belonging to the Dalit community is very apt in all respects for the president's post," Naidu told Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called him this afternoon to inform about Kovind's choice.

A communication from the chief minister's office said Naidu announced that the TDP would extend complete support forKovind's candidature.

The communication also said that the Prime Minister has requested Naidu to garner Trinamool Congress' support for the Ram Nath Kovind.

Naidu assured the Prime Minister that he would contact TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee upon her return from her foreign visit, the communication said.

However, Mamata Banerjee said that there were many other Dalitalit leaders, Kovind was BJP's Dalit Morcha leader and that is why he was chosen as NDA's candidate.

She also said that her party will announce their decision after the opposition meets on June 22.

(With PTI Inputs)

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Kolkata:

Virtually expressing her partys reservation about the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind, the NDAs pick for the post of president, Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Monday claimed that the Bihar Governor was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJPs Dalit Morcha in the past.

There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJPs Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him, she said in a statement.

The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate.

There are other big Dalit leaders in India. He( #RamNathKovind) was leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP, so they have made him candidate: WB CM  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

In order to support someone, we must know the person. The candidate should be someone who would be beneficial for the country. The opposition will meet on June 22, only after that can we announce our decision, the West Bengal chief minister added.

Banerjee left for the Netherlands on Monday to speak on the occasion of UN Public Service Day on June 23.

She, however, said, I am not for a moment saying that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit for the post of president. I have spoken to two or three opposition leaders, they too are surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country, she said.

Also Read: TRS to support NDA's Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind

The chief national spokesperson of the TMC, Derek OBrien, claimed that the party was not informed of Kovinds nomination by the NDA for the post of president.

The name was announced at a BJP press conference. Thats how we got to know. Not even informed (sic), he wrote on Twitter.

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New Delhi:

The Supreme Court on Monday extended till July 4 the time for embattled Sahara chief Subrata Roy to deposit Rs 709.82 crore, out of Rs 1,500 crore which was to be paid by June 15, with a warning that failure to pay the remainder may again land him in jail.

Extending its interim order granting bail to Roy till July 5, a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi said, If the balance amount is not paid by that date, we will be compelled to send the contemnor (Roy) to the custody and we are sure he shall not give rise to such an occasion.

At the outset, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Roy, said that out of Rs 1,500 crore, which was to be paid by June 15, the Sahara chief has deposited Rs 790.18 crore and ten more working days be granted to him to comply with the undertaking given by him on April 27.

Roy, who was present in courtroom on Monday, had told the court that he will pay Rs 1,500 crore on or before June 15 and Rs 552.22 crore exactly a month thereafter.

As the contemnor has deposited Rs 790.18 crore, we are inclined to extend the time by ten working days so that the undertaking can be complied with. The balance amount ie Rs 709.82 crores shall be deposited with the SEBI Sahara Refund Account by 4th July, 2017, the bench noted its order.

Meanwhile, the court allowed Sahara Chief to sell Grosvenor House Hotel by transferring shares of the company to the buyer firm, GH Equity UK Limited.

The bench, however, rejected the plea of Roy that he be allowed to sell land, admeasuring 87.03 acres, in certain villages of Haridwar in Uttarakhand in Rs 109.75 crore as the amount was 62 per cent of circle rate prevalent in the area.

The said amount is 62 per cent of the circle rate and, thereby, less than 38 per cent of the circle rate. Permission is sought to sell the property at that rate. As advised at present, we are not inclined to grant the said permission, the bench said.

We think that the said property shall be put to public auction by SEBI with the assistance of approved agency. In the bid, SEBI can mention 90 per cent of the circle rate, as some time this court had permitted at that rate, it said.

The auction be conducted by the competent authority of SEBI through approved agency on or before July 5, it said, adding that e-auction can be done.

Meanwhile, the court took on record the draft terms and conditions submitted by the Official Liquidator of the Bombay High Court for effecting sale of the Amby Valley properties of Sahara Group.

Vinod Sharma, the official liquidator, submitted that the terms and conditions have been scrutinized by Justice B N Agarwal, a former apex court judge who has been nominated to supervise the refund process.

A copy of the terms and conditions be handed over to the counsel for the contemnor (Roy)...The prayer for approval of the terms and conditions of sale notice shall be considered on the next date of hearing, it said.

Earlier, Roy had appeared before the court which extended his parole till June 19 with a warning that failure to pay Rs 1,500 crore, as promised, may land him in jail again.

The apex court had taken note of an affidavit and a personal undertaking of Roy that he will pay Rs 1,500 crore on or before June 15 and Rs 552.22 crore exactly a month thereafter on July 15.

Also Read: IRDAI takes over management of Sahara Life Insurance, says insurer was 'acting in a manner' harmful to interest of subscribers

The bench had noted in its order on April 27 that Rs 11,169 crore towards principal was due on the Sahara Chief and around Rs 12,000 crore has already been paid.

Earlier, the court was irked over non-submission of money and had decided to sell off Rs 34,000 crore worth of properties of the Sahara Group at the Aamby Valley.

The apex court had on April 6 warned the Group that if it failed to deposit Rs 5,092.6 crore in SEBI-Sahara refund account by April 17 in pursuance of its order, it will be compelled to auction its property at the Aamby Valley.

The court had on November 28 last year asked Roy to deposit Rs 600 crore more by February 6 in the refund account to remain out of jail and warned that failure to do so would result in his return to prison.

Also Read | Sebi-Sahara case: SC warns Subrata Roy to repay or ready to go to Tihar jail

It had on May 6, 2016 granted a four-week parole to Roy to attend the funeral of his mother. His parole has been extended by the court ever since. Roy was sent to Tihar jail on March 4, 2014.

Besides Roy, two other directorsRavi Shankar Dubey and Ashok Roy Choudharywere arrested for failure of the groups two companiesSahara India Real Estate Corporation (SIRECL) and Sahara Housing Investment Corp Ltd (SHICL) -- to comply with the courts August 31, 2012 order to return Rs 24,000 crore to their investors. Director Vandana Bhargava was not taken into custody.

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Bhopal:

Due to distress over debts, three farmers in Madhya Pradesh have allegedly committed suicide, taking the number of suicides in the state to 15 since June 8. In Sehore alone, the home district of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, five suicides have been reported.



Bansilal Meena, a 55-year-old farmer from Jamunia Khurd village in Sehore district, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself from ceiling at his home this morning, the police said.



Meenas son Manoj said his father owned nine acre land and was unable to repay a loan of Rs 11 lakh.



My father got a well dug up this year but it was dry. Besides, he was unable to repay the loan worth Rs 11 lakh taken from banks and private money lenders, he said.



Sehore Assistant Superintendent of Police A P Singh said a case has been registered in connection with the farmers death.



Another farmer Jiwan Singh Meena (35) committed suicide yesterday by hanging from a tree at his farm in Sayar Bamor village in Vidisha district.



Tehsildar Santosh Bitoliya claimed that Meena took the extreme step following a strife with his wife.



However, a family member of Meena said he was worried about the future of his three daughters amid his spiralling debt.



In a separate incident, farmer Pyarelal Oad (60) hanged himself to death in Neemuch districts Pipliya Vyas village last afternoon.



Dev Karan, Oads son, said his father was under stress as he was unable to repay a loan worth Rs 2.5 lakh taken from a nationalised bank.



City police station in-charge Hitesh Patil said a case has been registered in this connection.



Neemuch Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident and extended a financial help of Rs 20,000 to the family.

ALSO READ | MP: One more farmer commits suicide, total toll reaches 12 in 10 days



Former MP and Congress national secretary Meenakshi Natarajan today visited the village and met Oads family.



Madhya Pradesh is leading in farmers suicide after Maharashtra, according to the National Crime Record Bureau. It is sad that farmers are taking such steps due to increasing debt. They are also not getting proper prices for their produce in the state, Natarajan later said.



MP recently witnessed farmers stir over loan waiver, farm produce prices and other demands. The death of five farmers in police firing in Mandsaur district on June 6 during the unrest triggered a series of protests in various parts of the state.

ALSO READ | Farmers protests: Javadekar reveals 7-point strategy to double agrarian income



Since June 8, 15 farmers have ended their lives in Sehore, Hoshangabad, Raisen, Dhar and Vidisha districts.

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New Delhi:

Twitter is buzzing with news alerts from India and rest of the world. Here are the latest updates from the micro-blogging site in one scroll:

#11:01 PM

Puducherry LG Kiran Bedi seeks CBI probe into alleged PG medical admission scam in Puducherry: ANI

#11:00 PM

At least 126 migrants missing in Mediterranean after shipwreck, according to IOM agency: AFP

#10:59 PM

EU, UK agree priorities, timetable for Brexit talks, according to a statement: AFP

#10:58 PM

Delhi police registers FIR in Cabinet Secretariat fake letter matter after receiving complaint from under secretary: ANI

#10:57 PM

Punjab govt to enact new Lok Pal legislation with powers to initiate action on complaints against CM, Ministers & bureaucracy at all levels: ANI

#10:56 PM

PM Modi reaffirmed Indias commitment to take forward implementation of the Paris Agreement: ANI

#10:55 PM

Both leaders exchanged views on developments of mutual interest, specifically climate change: ANI

#10:54 PM

Fire at French nuclear reactor, safety body says no sign of radiation concerns: Reuters

#9:57 PM

Punjab government announces free textbooks for students of govt schools & pre-primary classes (Nursery & LKG) from next academic session:ANI

#9:47 PM

47-yr-old man, arrested at Finsbury Park, charged with a terror offense over mosque attack: London Metropolitan Police - ANI



#9:40 PM

Presidential Poll: NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind reaches BJP president Amit Shah's residence: ANI

#9:35 PM

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists attack at an Army patrol party in Pulwama, one civilian injured in retaliatory firing by Army: ANI

#9:34 PM

PresidentialPoll: Office of President of India is above political considerations & BJD aims to keep it like that: Naveen Patnaik, Ram Nath Kovind: ANI

#9:33 PM

Presidential Poll: BJD has decided to support the candidature of Ram Nath Govind: Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik: ANI



#9:13 PM

Irrigation dept executive engineer registers #FIR in alleged scam in Gomti Riverfront Development project,8 officers of dept named in FIR: ANI



#8:49 PM

IT Dept has seized benami properties of Misa Bharti, her husband Shailesh Kumar and Bihar deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav

#8:47 PM

Wanted Naxalite Jai Singh Kunjam, carrying reward of Rs 5 lakh, has been killed in encounter in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district: Police: PTI

#8:40 PM

China's 1st indigenous communications Satellite for live radio, TV broadcasts fails to enter preset orbit: PTI

#8:39 PM

Presidential Poll: NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind met PM Narendra Modi

#8:38 PM

Punjab CM Captain Amarinder announces total waiver of entire crop loans of 8.75 lac small and marginal farmers: ANI

#8:30 PM

WB govt sends report on Darjeelingunrest to Centre, demands 250 women paramilitary personnel; Home Ministry dispatches half the number: PTI

#8:29 PM

Presidential Poll: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind arrives to meet PM Modi: ANI

#8:22 PM

Hotels and restaurants on highways can now serve liquor, Punjab Cabinet passes amendment: ANI

#8:09 PM

Cuban Foreign minister says #Cuba will not send fugitives back to #US: AFP

#8:08 PM

Car exploded on hitting police van on Champs-Elysees, driver armed: probe sources

ALSO READ: Paris: Suspected attacker rams car into police van, terror probe on

#7:48 PM

Car crashes into police van on Paris's Champs-Elysees, no casualties: official - AFP

#7:46 PM

Presidential Poll: But if it is for the development of the nation then we may support: Uddhav Thackeray: PTI



#7:45 PM

Presidential Poll: If someone is trying to make a Dalit President with purpose of gaining vote bank then we are not wth them: Uddhav Thackeray

#7:42 PM

It is significant step to enhance India-Afghanistan trade ties, will also think of more trade routes even road: SM Abdali, Afghan Envoy: ANI

#7:40 PM

Paris police say security operation underway in Champs Elysees shopping district: AFP

#7:39 PM

Delhi HC asks CBSE to place before it decision to scrap Reevaluation policy, says if board erred in totalling it could do in evaluation: PTI

#7:38 PM

The flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly hing) from #Afghanistan, was flagged off in #Kabul by President Ashraf Ghani: ANI

#7:35 PM

Decision to establish an Air Freight Corridor was taken in meeting between PM Modi and President Ashraf Ghani in September 2016: ANI

#7:33 PM

First air freight corridor flight between India & Afghanistan (Delhi-Kabul) arrived in Delhi: ANI

#7:28 PM

Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Gabonese counterpart Pacome Moubelet Boubeya: ANI

#7:18 PM

Presidential Poll: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind arrives in Delhi, will meet PM Modi: ANI

#6:50 PM

Chhattisgarh: Reportedly 3 more Naxals were killed, their bodies are yet to be recovered: ANI

#6:49 PM

Chhattisgarh: 1 Naxal with reward ofRs. 5 lakh on his head killed in encounter with BSF & STF in Kanker's Koyalibera,1 SLR, ammo recovered



#6:34 PM

Four suspected jihadists killed, five arrested after Mali resort attack: AFP

#6:32 PM

Girl gang-raped, thrown off train in Bihar's Lakhisarai district; govt forms SIT to probe the incident - PTI

#6:31 PM

Vehicular traffic in inner circle of Connaught Place to be closed between 11 PM tonight & 11:30 AM on Jun 21 for Yoga Day preparation: NDMC

#6:30 PM

Presidential Poll: Someone of the stature of SushmaSwaraj or Lal Krishna Advani should have been Presidential nominee: Mamata Banerjee

#6:29 PM

Presidential Poll: YSR Congress in Andhra Pradesh announces support to NDA Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind: PTI

#6:28 PM

Delhi court sends ex-BSNL officer to 3 years in jail in graft case, says corruption by public servants needs to be dealt with sternly: PTI

#6:27 PM

Delhi: Union Min S Prabhu & D Pradhan inaugurated Bolagarh-Nayagarh (Odisha) railway line, station building, pax halt via video conferencing

#6:26 PM

Arunachal Pradesh: Army rescued 200 civilians, including 50 children, who were stranded due to massive landslides in West Kameng district: ANI

#6:08 PM

Jammu and Kashmir: 3G and 4G internet services restored in Kashmir valley: ANI

#6:00 PM

Virat Kohli among three Indians in the ICC Team of the Champions Trophy. Pakistan's Sarfraz Ahmed named its captain: PTI

#5:49 PM

Presidential Poll: It's not good to get into unnecessary controversy, we want everyone to support Ram Nath Kovind: M Venkaiah Naidu: ANI

#5:57 PM

Exclusive| Presidential Poll, Ram Nath Kovind to News Nation TV: 'My best wishes for prosperity and development of people of Bihar

#AFP

Russia says it will treat US-led coalition planes in Syria, west of the Euphrates, as targets after US downed Syrian jet: AFP

#5:34 PM

Presidential Poll: NCP will attend #UPA members' meet on June 22, Delhi to decide their presidential candidate: NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik: ANI

#5:31 PM

PresidentialPoll: I thank the people of Bihar for their support: Ram Nath Kovind: ANI

#5:21 PM

Russia halts incident-prevention hotline with US in Syria: AFP

#5:20 PM

Presidential Poll: ShivSena to support Ram Nath Kovind for President: Reports

#5:09 PM

Sources says that the deal has been signed in #Paris, on the sidelines of the Paris Air Show: ANI

#5:08 PM

Before PM Modi's visit to US on June 25, Lockheed Martin ties up with TATA to produce F16 fighter planes in India: ANI

#5:06 PM

Presidential Poll: Under his leadership, #India will prosper and the backward class will get justice: Nitin Gadkari on Ram Nath Kovind: ANI

#5:03 PM

J&K: CM MehboobaMufti visited residence of police officer Feroz Ahmad Dar, who lost his life in Achabal terrorist attack: ANI

#4:58 PM

Actor Anupam Kher illuminates the UN building in New York in preparation of International Day of Yoga: PTI



#4:57 PM

GST Bill has been passed in Punjab assembly: ANI

#4:52 PM

Prez polls: We r also of opinion that it wld have been better if NDA hd named some non-political Dalit person as President nominee: Mayawati - ANI

#4:51 PM

Prez polls: As he is a Dalit we r positive on his name, but only if oppn doesn't announce popular dalit name:Mayawati, Ram Nath Kovind:ANI

#4:39 PM

There r other big #Dalit leaders in India. He( #RamNathKovind) ws leadr of Dalit Morcha of #BJP, so thy made him candidate: Mamata Banerjee



#4:38 PM

Presidential elections: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind to meet PM Modi today

#4:37 PM

Presidential election: Opposition will meet on 22nd June, only then we can announce our decision: Mamata Bannerjee, Ram Nath Kovind: ANI

#4:33 PM

Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May describes mosque attack as "sickening" attempt to destroy freedom of religion, other liberties: AP

#4:32 PM

Israel begins to reduce electricity supplies to Gaza: AFP

#4:31 PM

Supreme Court grants 10 more working days to Sahara chief Subrata Roy to deposit Rs 709.82 cr with the Sahara-SEBI refund account: ANI

#4:29 PM

Prez polls: He has done exemplary work (as Bihar guv), worked with impartiality, maintained ideal relationship with state govt: Nitish Kumar

#4:25 PM Letter attributed to Cabinet Secretariat on digitalisation of Land Records & subsequent linking of the same to AADHAR: Govt sources: ANI

#4:22 PM

Presidential poll: Matter of happiness for me personally. As far as support is concerned, can't say anything right now: Nitish Kumar:ANI



#4:16 PM

We support Ram Nath Kovind ji for next President of India, CM KC Rao had informed Narendra Modi about it already: K Kavitha,TRS

#4:15 PM

Supreme Court extends parole of Sahara India's Subrata Roy till July 5: ANI

#4:05 PM

Opp parties are meeting on 22nd. Only once in history of independent India has president of India been elected uncontested:#SYechury: ANI

#4:02 PM

At least 79 people presumed dead in London tower block fire: London police

#3:40 PM

Mumbai: A 29-year-old actor Anjali Shrivastav allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself from ceiling fan at her house in Andheri West: ANI

#3:30 PM

Presidential polls: It's not appropriate to talk about the candidate at this moment: Ghulam Nabi Azad

ALSO READ: Ram Nath Kovind set to become India's 2nd Dalit President



#3:28 PM

Presidential polls: Congress will have another meeting on 22nd June regarding the matter, all leaders will be present: Ghulam Nabi Azad



# 3:20 PM I am sure Ram Nath Kovind, a farmer's son, will make exceptional #President & continue to be voice for poor, downtrodden: PM Modi

#3:00 PM

Delhi: 3 ppl involved in cricket betting yesterday arrested from a Guest House in Civil Lines; 10 mobiles, 2 laptops, 2 LCDs recovered: ANI

#2:54 PM

NGT asked road transport ministry & BRO to give undertaking that road construction project will not be started till zonal plan is approved. - ANI

#2:45 PM

#Indians flying abroad will not be required to fill departure cards from July 1. - PTI

#2:42 PM

WB minister Partha Chatterjee & home secy to participate in an all-party-meeting on 22 June called by state govt, in Siliguri Darjeeling - ANI

#2:33 PM

#PresidentialPoll Meeting of Opposition parties to be held on 22nd June - ANI

#2:33 PM

Britain, European Union begin #Brexit negotiations - ANI

#2:30 PM

Telangana CM and TRS Chief KC Rao extends support to NDA's presidential candidate #RamnathKovind after speaking to PM Modi - ANI

#2:29 PM

PM Modi has spoken to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar,AP CM Chandrababu Naidu and TN CM E Palaniswamy #RamnathKovind - ANI

#2:29 PM

A 17-year-old American #Muslim girl killed after leaving #Virginia mosque in US: authorities. - PTI

#2:25 PM

#GorkhaJanmuktiMorcha expresses "displeasure" with Centre and questions absence of Darjeeling BJP MP #SSAhluwalia at the time of crisis. - PTI

#2:24 PM

WB CM Mamata Banerjee urges all concerned parties, stakeholders to attend all-party meeting called by state govt in #Siliguri on June 22. - PTI

#2:14 PM

#RamNathKovind will be NDA's presidential candidate; PM Modi himself informed Cong chief Sonia Gandhi: @AmitShah. For more updates, click here

#2:06 PM

Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind has been decided as NDA candidate for Presidential Poll 2017.

#1:58 PM

Valsad(Gujarat): Member of Municipal Corporation throws her bangles at Gujarat Dy CM Nitin Patel during an event,accusing him of corruption - ANI

#1:27 PM

Supreme Court issued notice to Centre & MCI seek their response within 3 weeks on petition filed by Maulana Jauhar University. - ANI

#1:23 PM

It's a heinous crime,necessary action being takn,accused cannot be spared:Bihar CM on woman allegedly raped&thrown off a train in Lakhisarai - ANI

#1:00 PM

Supreme Court refused to stay Delhi HC's order in connection with payment of Rs 60 crore to a lender of Delhi Airport Metro Express Private - ANI

#12:57 PM

#WestBengal: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters hold a protest rally in Darjeeling, over #Gorkhaland demand - ANI

#12:52 PM

UK sees 'happy' Brexit outcome for both sides: Boris Johnson - AFP

#12:48 PM

CBI Lawyer says "will argue for extreme punishment for all convicts Mumbai 1993 blast case" - ANI

#12:45 PM

Delhi: Fire breaks out in an underground cable at Delhi Police crime branch inter-state cell, in Chanakyapuri; 3 fire tenders on the spot - ANI

#12:44 PM

1993 Mumbai blasts case: Abdul Wahab Khan had made an application & sought 2 weeks time to prepare arguments on quantum of sentence - ANI

#12:37 PM

Defence lawyer Abdul Wahab Khan moved application before TADA court to examine three witnesses for defence of his client Feroz Khan - ANI

#12:32 PM

They haven't decided on a name yet,even when Arun Jaitley ji rang me, he didn't have a name for presidential candidate:Bihar CM Nitish Kumar - ANI

#12:30 PM

CBI team reaches Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi for investigation into the case of missing JNU student Najeeb Ahmed. - ANI

#12:27 PM

BJP Parliamentary Board meeting begins at party headquarter in #Delhi - ANI

#12:22 PM

#PresidentialPoll PM Modi arrives at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting #Delhi - ANI

#12:13 PM

Raised RK Nagar bypoll bribery issue,TN CM said, investigation ordered,didn't gv proper answer:MK Stalin on DMK&Cong's walkout from Assembly - ANI

#12:08 PM

#I-T department all set to use Rs 1,500 cr of tax refund due to Cairn Energy to settle part of tax liability: Sources. - PTI

#12:06 PM

His (Rajinikanth) response was good, he says he wants to do something for TN and country. He will consider joining politics: Arjun Sampath - ANI

#12:03 PM

MP: Family beaten by Jogni Toll plaza employees in Rewa district after they protested against demand of toll tax above mentioned rates - ANI

#12:02 PM

#PresidentialPoll Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj & Venkaiah Naidu arrived at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting #Delhi - ANI

#12:02 PM

Missing J&K constable Samir Bhatt case: Supreme Court asks Jammu and Kashmir police to file a fresh status report by July 17th in the case. - ANI

#12:00 PM

We are all backing Rajinikanth, appeal that he should come into politics and give good things to TN:Hindu Makkal Katchi leader Arjun Sampath - ANI

#11:41 AM

We urge journalists here to wield the power of pen & experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir: Abdul R Makki - ANI

#11:32 AM

One of the masterminds of Mumbai attacks Abdul Rehman Makki addresses press in Faislabad, calls on them to foster unrest in Kashmir. - ANI

#11:25 AM

#PresidentialPoll BJP President Amit Shah arrives at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting scheduled to take place at 12 noon #Delhi - ANI

#11:17 AM

Andhra Pradesh: Gold, land documents & Rs 42,000 in cash recovered by ACB in raids at various locations of Gajuwaka Sub-registrar D Venkayya - ANI

#11:15 AM

#Chennai Hindu Makkal Katchi leader Arjun Sampath and General Secretary Ravikumar meet Rajinikanth at his residence. - ANI

#11:10 AM

ACB conducting raids at various locations of Gajuwaka Sub-registrar D Venkayya; raids on at Visakhapatnam, Tirupati & Rajamundary - ANI

#10:52 AM

MP: Family beaten by Jogni Toll plaza employees in Rewa district after they protested against demand of toll tax above mentioned rates - ANI

#10:17 AM

We had suggested that President should be a political personality, & not anyone from non pol background: Naresh Agrawal,SP #PresidentialPoll - ANI

#9:55 AM

Bihar: We are carrying out the investigation and will arrest the accused soon- Pankaj Kumar, SDPO - ANI

#9:52 AM

Bihar: Girl in critical condition after being allegedly raped & thrown from a train at Kiul Railway Stn in Lakhisarai, admitted to hospital - ANI

#9:49 AM

#PresidentialPoll BJP has called its MPs, MLAs to Delhi for signing of nomination papers, process of which begins today. - ANI

#9:40 AM

London police say one person died and 8 injured when van hit crowd near Finsbury Park; Counter Terrorism Command investigating - ANI

#9:35 AM

London police say one person died when van hit crowd near Finsbury Park; Counter Terrorism Command investigating - ANI

#9:28 AM

Delhi: New-born allegedly declared dead by doctors at Safdarjung Hospital, found to be alive by family just before the burial - ANI

#9:20 AM

Sensex up by 122.68 points, currently at 31,179.08. Nifty at 9,622.80 - ANI

#9:09 AM

Violent protest won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation: Mamata Banerjee,West Bengal CM #DarjeelingUnrest - ANI

#9:08 AM

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee arrives at Kolkata airport, to leave for her Netherlands visit. - ANI

#9:06 AM

Rajasthan: Silver coins dating back to year 1904 - 1919 found near banks of the Banganga river in Bharatpurs Bhusawar - ANI

#8:59 AM

Birthday greetings to the Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi. I pray for his long and healthy life, tweets PM Narendra Modi - ANI

#8:49 AM

Rajasthan: Case registered against unknown persons for killing 10 peacocks in Bhilwara district's Mandalgarh - ANI

#8:39 AM

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath gives nod for CBI investigation into Gomti River Channelisation Project scam - ANI

#8:13 AM

#PresidentialPoll BJP Parliamentary Board meeting scheduled to take place at 12 noon, today. - ANI

#8:07 AM

#WestBengal: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as Toy Train services affected amid indefinite strike called by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha - ANI

#7:52 AM

UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Governor Ram Naik inspected preparations of Yoga Day celebrations,to be attended by PM at Ramabai Ambedkar Ground - ANI

#7:40 AM

#London: Casualties after vehicle hits pedestrians, one person arrested: Police at the scene of incident at Finsbury Park - ANI

#7:33 AM

2 brothers, suffering from mental illness,tied to a wooden pole for alleged child theft and thrashed in #Odisha's Baripada. Investigation on - ANI

#7:22 AM

UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Governor Ram Naik attend full dress rehearsal for Yoga Day celebrations, at Ramabai Ambedkar Ground - ANI

#7:16 AM

#Darjeeling: Indefinite strike called by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha enters into eighth day #Gorkhaland - ANI

#7:12 AM

Muslim Council says van that struck pedestrians in London ran over worshippers leaving Finsbury Park mosque: AP - ANI

#7:12 AM

#Haryana: Rain lashes Faridabad, bringing respite from soaring temperatures - ANI

#7:04 AM

#Gujarat: Baba Ramdev holds Yoga camp in Ahmedabad ahead of #WorldYogaDay2017 - ANI

#7:02 AM

#Delhi: Rain lashes parts of the national capital - ANI

#6:59 AM

Earthquake of Magnitude 4.4, occurred at 4:05 am in Imphal (Manipur) - ANI

#6:15 AM

One arrested after vehicle strikes pedestrians in London causing "a number of casualties." (AP) - ANI

#6:12 AM

Vehicle hits pedestrians in London, several wounded: police- AFP

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The BJP Parliamentary Board, the partys highest decision-making body, on Monday proposed the name of current Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA candidate for next Presidential elections due in July. The nomination papers are expected to be filed on June 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party chief Amit Shah attended the meet.

The Board members were believed to have been briefed about the consultation undertaken by a three-member party committee with allies and opposition parties. The committee members include Union ministers Rajnath Singh, M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley, who are also the members of the Board.

Here are the live updates:

#4:00 PM

Opp parties are meeting on 22nd. Only once in history of independent India has the president of India been elected uncontested: S Yechury

#3:30 PM: Ghulam Nabi Azad address media:

-When BJP leaders met us they said they will inform before any announcement for a consensus, but they informed after decision

-We are not going to comment on this decision yet, nothing to say

-BJP didn't reveal the name of its candidate in the meeting

-It's not appropriate to talk about the candidate at this moment

-The next date of the meeting is 22nd June, all leaders will be present

-Sonia Gandhi had called 18 party meeting, it was decided that 3 BJP leaders will talk to the Opposition

#3:25 PM

I appeal to all political parties of UP to support son of UP, Ram Nath Kovind for president, rising above politics: UP CM Yogi Adityanath



Opposition ki baithak hogi,usme naam pe vichaar karenge,NDA ne naam announce kiya hai uspe bhi baat karenge: Sharad Yadav,JDU #RamnathKovind pic.twitter.com/NK6EdIpqut

#2:36 PM: Presidential Poll Meeting of Opposition parties to be held on June 22

#2:35 PM: Telangana CM and TRS Chief KC Rao extends support to NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind after speaking to PM Modi



#2:30 PM: PM Modi has spoken to Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, AP CM Chandrababu Naidu and TN CM E Palaniswamy

#2:25 PM: Venkaiah Naidu informed LK Advani and MM Joshi before announcement of name of Ramnath Kovind as the NDA presidential candidate



#2:10 PM: The nomination will be filed on June 23: Shah

#2:10 PM: Bihar Guv Ramnath Kovind will be NDA's presidential candidate; PM Modi himself informed Cong chief Sonia Gandhi about this, Sonia Gandhi said we will discuss and inform you later: Amit Shah

#Who is Ram Nath Kovind

He was elected to Rajya Sabha from the state of Uttar Pradesh during the two terms of 1994-2000 and 2000-2006. He is an advocate by profession and practices in Delhi. He is a former President of the BJP Dalit Morcha (1998-2002) and President of the All-India Koli Samaj. He also served as national spokesperson of the party. (Read full profile here)

BJP Parliamentary Board meeting begins at party headquarter in #Delhi pic.twitter.com/ywCbNU34BU  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

#PresidentialPoll Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj & Venkaiah Naidu arrived at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting #Delhi pic.twitter.com/UdNq0s40Ij  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

#11:30 AM: BJP President Amit Shah arrives at party HQ for BJP Parliamentary Board meeting scheduled to take place at 12 noon

#9:50 Am: BJP has called its MPs, MLAs to Delhi for signing of nomination papers, process of which begins today: ANI

Since past week, the partys committee has been engaging in fierce negotiations over the name of the candidate which will most likely garner maximum support from across the board.

Also Read: Ram Nath Kovind set to become India's 2nd Dalit Prez; PM Modi says he will make exceptional President; CPI calls him RSS man

So far, LJP has extended full support to PM MOdi's choice, Shiv Sena has hinted at same, while SP has shown interest in a political candidate. Other Opposition parties have maintained a caution and have even suggested that they might float a separate candidate the next day if they don't like who BJP nominates.

(With Inputs from PTI)

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New Delhi:

US space agency NASAs Orion spacecraft has successfully passed a bunch of key safety tests as it prepares to take astronauts to deep space destinations like the Mars and Moon. On June 15, the abort motor for Orion Orions launch abort system was tested by NASA scientists, who fired the 17-foot tall motor for five seconds.



A vertical test stand was used to fasten the motor and its nozzles were pointed toward the sky for the test. It churned out sufficient thrust to lift 66 large SUVs off the ground and helped qualify the system for future missions with astronauts.



The launch abort system is an important part of making sure our crew members stay safe on the launch pad and on their way to space, said Robert Decoursey, manager for Orions launch abort system. It takes us another step closer to proving the safety of our spacecraft as we prepare for missions beyond the moon, Decoursey said.



On the top of the Orion crew model, the launch abort system is positioned. It will play key role in providing protection to future astronauts travelling on deep space missions in Orion. The abort motor propels the crew module away from the Space Launch System rocket in case of an emergency. It will also propel one of the three motors that will send the crew module to safe distance away from a failing rocket and orient it properly for a safe descent into the Atlantic Ocean if such a situation ever occurs.



With the analysis of the data, the researchers are just getting started, while it was verified after the test that the motor is capable of firing within milliseconds when required and can work as expected under high temperatures.

Also, it was evaluated during the test that how the parachute system that ensures the crew module can safely descend to Earth performs during a scenario in which an abort while on the launch pad is necessary.



The system will customarily deploy 11 parachutes in a precise sequence to help slow the crew module down from high speeds for a relatively slow splashdown in the Pacific Ocean when Orion returns to Earth from deep space missions beyond the Moon.



However, the parachutes must also be capable of sending the crew module to safety if it were to be jettisoned off a failing rocket without time for the full deployment sequence to occur.

ALSO READ | NASA may delay $23 billion Orion spacecraft mission to Mars: All you need to know about world's most powerful rocket

About NASA's Orion spacecraft:

US space agency had recently announced that it is likely to delay first two missions of its Orion deep-space capsule due to technical and financial issues. Technical as well as budget challenges were cited as reason behind the delay by report of NASAs Office of Inspector General.

NASA Orion spacecraft is being developed with an aim to send astronauts beyond the orbit of the Earth and eventually move them to the red planet.

The first Orion spacecraft will be launched atop the planned Space Launch System, or SLS. As soon as it will be launched, it will become the most powerful rocket in the world. The first of the two launches is scheduled for early November 2018, and it wont have a crew.

The second Mars mission that will carry astronauts has been planned for August 2021 at the earliest.

However, NASAs initial exploration missions on its Journey to MarsEM-1 and EM-2 -- face multiple cost and technical challenges that likely will affect their planned launch dates, the report said of the conclusions from a nine-month audit.

The report has cited the delays in the development of the service module of Orion that are provided by the European Space Agency (ESA). It also cites technical risks from the changes in the design of the heat shield of the capsule.

The report also says that there are delays in development of software for the SLS, Orion and ground systems at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

ALSO READ | NASA set to put astronauts on test flight of Orion spacecraft to orbit moon

We are concerned NASA will not be able to resolve all necessary software validation and verification efforts in time to meet a November 2018 launch date for EM-1, the report said.

By the end of fiscal year 2018, the total cost for the SLS, Orion and ground systems development programs is likely to reach some $23 billion. Manned exploration of Mars is expected to exceed $33 billion by 2033.

In February, the White House had asked the NASA to carry out a feasibility study of the cost, safety and technical constraints of adding astronauts to the first Orion mission in late 2018.

The report also questions the feasibility of NASAs plans to launch a manned mission to Mars in the late 2030s or early 2040s. The agency has not provided target mission dates for a manned orbit of Mars or landings on the planets surface or nearby moon, it said.

To achieve its goal of sending humans to the vicinity of Mars in the 2030s, NASA must carry out significant development work on key systems such as a deep space habitat, in-space transportation, and Mars landing and ascent vehicles in the 2020s, the report added.



The Agency will need to make these and many other decisions in the next 5 years or so for that to happen.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Los Angeles:

We all know that our Sun was born 4.5 billion years ago, but what we did not know till now is that it likely had a twin when it came into existence, scientists have said. They have also said that every star in the universe is born with a companion, including the one nearest to Earth called Alpha Centauri, a triplet system.



An explanation in this topic was long sought by astronomers, who also searched for a companion to our Sun  a star dubbed Nemesis. The Nemesis is believed to have kicked an asteroid into the orbit of the Earth. The asteroid collided with the Earth and killed the dinosaurs. It has never been found though.



A radio survey of a giant molecular cloud filled with recently formed stars in the constellation Perseus was carried out by researchers, including those from University of California (UC) Berkeley in the US.



A mathematical model that can explain the Perseus observations only if all sunlike stars are born with a companion was also created by the team.



We are saying, yes, there probably was a Nemesis, a long time ago, said co-author Steven Stahler, researchers at UC Berkeley.



We ran a series of statistical models to see if we could account for the relative populations of young single stars and binaries of all separations in the Perseus molecular cloud, and the only model that could reproduce the data was one in which all stars form initially as wide binaries, researchers said.



Stahler said these systems then either shrink or break apart within a million years. Wide in this study means that two stars are separated by more than 500 astronomical units (AU). One AU is the average distance between the sun and Earth (about 150 million kilometres).



They sad that the Suns wide binary companion would have been 17 times farther from it than its most distant planet today  Neptune.



They said based on this model, the Suns sibling most likely escaped and mixed with all the other stars in our region of the Milky Way galaxy, never to be seen again.



Based on our simple model, we say that nearly all stars form with a companion, said Sarah Sadavoy, from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in the US.



Stars are born inside egg-shaped cocoons called dense cores, which are sprinkled throughout immense clouds of cold, molecular hydrogen that are the nurseries for young stars.



Researchers mathematically modelled various scenarios to explain this distribution of stars, assuming typical formation, breakup and orbital shrinking times.

ALSO READ | Citizen-science tool uncover cold new world near Sun



They concluded that the only way to explain the observations is to assume that all stars of masses around that of the Sun start off as wide Class 0 binaries in egg-shaped dense cores, after which some 60 per cent split up over time. The rest shrink to form tight binaries.

ALSO READ | Understanding Mars climate: Sun stripped most of red planet's atmosphere to space, NASA's MAVEN reveals how



(With inputs from PTI)

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New Delhi:

Two Pakistan naval officers were killed and three others were wounded after militants opened fire on a Navy vehicle in Jiwani city of Gwadar district on Monday evening, said navy spokesmen.

The naval officers were transporting iftar items during a routine run from Jiwani city when their vehicle was ambushed by four assailants on two motorbikes, the official said.

The injured were shifted to Karachi for treatment, added the spokesman.Such acts from extremist elements will not dent our resolve, said the navy spokesman.The statement added that those involved in the attack will be brought to justice and punished.

ALSO READ: Pakistan: Panic in Rawalpindi girls college after firing reports

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.

READ: Blast in Pakistan's tribal belt kills 10, injures 13

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New Delhi:

Pakistans Lahore High Court on Monday adjourned the detention case of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JUD) chief and Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and his four aides till July 3. As a division bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan today held the court to announce the verdict a government law officer requested it (bench) to defer it as the deputy attorney general was not present in the court, a court official told reporters outside the courtroom.

Accepting the governments request, the bench deferred the announcement of its verdict in Saeeds house arrest case till July 3, the official said. The court official gave no further reason for deferring the announcement. The bench will again sit on July 3 and announce the verdict in Saeeds case, he added.

The court had reserved the decision on June 7 after the Punjab government law officer submitted a reply and Saeeds counsel advocate A K Dogar completed his arguments. The court had declared that it would announce the verdict in Saeed's detention case on June 19.

Saeed and his four close aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been detained on the instruction of the federal government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and security of the country, says the Punjab government.

ALSO READ: JuD chief asks Pak media to foster unrest in Kashmir

The government had also submitted the report of the judicial review board on the detention of Saeed and his aides. In his arguments, Dogar said the government did not produce the petitioners before the judicial review board prior to expiry of their detention period (April 30) and extended their detention on its own.

He said extending detention period without the mandatory approval of the review board is illegal.Dogar said the government detained the petitioners to please India and America only.

He said the courts of the country in past had declared detention of the JuD chief illegal as government failed to prove its charges against him. He prayed to the court to set aside the detention of the petitioners for being unconstitutional.

Earlier, the three-member review board headed by Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan of the Supreme Court had reserved its verdict on the detention of Saeed.

READ: LHC to announce verdict in Hafiz Saeed detention case on June 19

Saeed had appeared in May before the review board and told it that he had been detained by the Pakistani government in order to stop him for raising voice for Kashmiris.

The federal interior ministry rejected his arguments and told the board that Saeed and his four aides have been detained for spreading terrorism in the name of Jihad.On April 30, detention of Saeed and his four aides was extended by the Punjab government for another 90 days under preventative detention under 11 EEE (I) and 11D of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

The Punjab government on January 30 had put these five under house arrest in Lahore under the Second Schedule of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.

With PTI inputs

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Details added (first version posted on 11:53)

Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has today received OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs Stephane Visconti, Igor Popov, Richard Hoagland, as well as Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk.

"After your visit to Armenia and occupied Azerbaijani territories and on the eve of the visit to Azerbaijan, Armenia committed another military provocation against Azerbaijan on the line of contact, killing one Azerbaijani soldier. As usual the Azerbaijani army gave an adequate retaliation, and you are aware of the results. This has not come as a surprise to me because as always before some important event or your visit, Armenia commits such provocations," said the head of state.

"We have witnessed this a few times  in 2014, 2016 and now as well. They, of course, know that we will give an adequate response to any military provocation against our civilians and servicemen. They are inciting our side so that then they accuse Azerbaijan of violating the ceasefire. It is sufficient to look at the chronology of the events so that you can see when the Azerbaijani soldier was killed by the Armenian army and when our country gave an adequate response to this. So, the Armenian administration is responsible for the recent ceasefire violation on the line of contact, and the army of aggressor Armenia is responsible for any consequences," added the president.

At the same time, the head of state noted that Azerbaijan is committed to the ceasefire regime. President Ilham Aliyev said the situation on the line of contact has been relatively calm recently, adding that this is an important factor for speeding up the negotiations.

"However, the developments have clearly showed that Armenia tries to disrupt the activities of Minsk Group co-chairs at all costs," he said.

The head of state stressed that Armenia tries to draw attention only to security issues and uses all this as a pretext to accuse Azerbaijan of violating the ceasefire. This is a fully unfair and unjust position, said the Azerbaijani president.

OSCE Minsk Groups Russian co-chair Igor Popov thanked President Ilham Aliyev for his remarks. Igor Popov noted that this serious ceasefire violation during the visit of the co-chairs to Azerbaijan causes deep disappointment.

"This situation will be reflected in a statement that we will make upon the conclusion of our visit," he said.

OSCE Minsk Groups French co-chair Stephane Visconti, American co-chair Richard Hoagland as well as Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk commented on the negotiation process.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the current state and prospects of the talks on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Tehran:

Iran launched a series of missiles into Syria on Sunday in revenge for deadly attacks on its capital that were claimed by the Islamic State group, said countrys Revolutionary Guard.

The missiles were fired from western Iran across the border into Deir Ezzor province, in northeastern Syria, targeting what the Guard called terror bases.

The Guard said, in a statement published on its Sepahnews website, that the missiles were in retaliation for the June 7 attacks on Tehran claimed by IS.

Medium-range missiles were fired from the (western) provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdestan, and a large number of terrorists were killed and weapons destroyed, the statement said.

It said the attack targeted a command base.... of the terrorists in Deir Ezzor, Syrias oil-rich eastern province.

On June 7, gunmen and suicide bombers attacked the parliament complex and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran, killing 17 people.

Also read: Iran leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei shrugs off IS attacks in Tehran

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which accused Saudi Arabia of involvement in the attacks, vowed to avenge the bloodshed.

Senior Iranian officials had also put the blame on Riyadh after the Tehran attacks, saying Saudi Arabia was promoting terrorist groups in Iran.

The Islamic republic of Iran is a key ally of the Syrian regime of President Bashar al-Assad, alongside Russia and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement of Lebanon.

Iran has sent to Syria military advisers as well as thousands of volunteer fighters recruited among its own nationals as well as the Shiite communities in neighbouring Afghanistan and Pakistan since Syrias conflict broke out in March 2011.

According to a report published in March, some 2,100 combatants sent by Iran have died in Syria and Iraq.

Also read: Iran Parliament and Khomeini tomb attacks: 4 terrorists, 12 others dead; ISIS claims responsibility

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London:

A vehicle has hit pedestrians in the Finsbury Park area of north London, killing at least one and injuring 8 others, police said on Monday (IST), adding that one person had been arrested.



aPolice were called just after 0020 hours (2320 GMT) 18 June to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians,a police said in a statement. aThere are a number of casualties being worked on at the scene. There has been one person arrested,a the statement said.

London police say one person died and 8 injured when van hit crowd near Finsbury Park; Counter Terrorism Command investigating pic.twitter.com/EwqyQSYxBn a ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017



The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body, said on Twitter: aWe have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims.



Harun Khan, the head of the MCB, tweeted that the van had aintentionallya run over people leaving night prayers held during the holy month of Ramadan.



The mosque is near Seven Sisters Road, where the accident happened, and was once a notorious hub for radical Islamists but has entirely changed under new management.

A

#BREAKING: Van strikes crowd of pedestrians outside mosque in London; one person is arrested. #FinsburyPark pic.twitter.com/e0dAmafKES a Kevin W. (@kwilli1046) June 19, 2017

A

BREAKING: We have been informed that a van has run over worshippers as they left #FinsburyPark Mosque. Our prayers are with the victims. https://t.co/FSE5m3bFpo a MCB (@MuslimCouncil) June 19, 2017

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New Delhi:

A car on Monday crashed into a police vehicle and burst into flames at the Champs-Elysees roundabout just 250 yards from the French presidential palace where Emmanuel Macron resides.

The car struck a French Police van in the central Parisian district of France at around 3:40 pm (local time) and caught fire.Police seized the driver immediately after the incident and the entire area was cordoned off.

"The driver deliberately rammed the gendarmes' van," according to police sources quoted by BFM TV.

The driver is "on the ground... seriously injured," another police source said, without indicating whether the incident was an accident or a deliberate act. Nobody was hurt in the incident and the motives were unknown. However, the French police have launched a terror investigation.

"Today at around 3.40pm, a police squadron was going down the Champs-Elysees. A Renault Megane overtook it on the right and hit the van at the front of the police cortege," said a police spokeswoman.

"The Renault Megane caught fire. Police started sealing off the area. No military personnel or tourists were injured. The individual is apparently dead. An inquiry has been launched. It appears he was armed," she added.

The apparent attack took place hours after a man ploughed into people leaving a mosque in London.

It's a developing story and more details will follow.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Bamako(Mali):

Suspected jihadists crying Allahu Akbar stormed a tourist resort popular with foreigners on the edge of the Malian capital Bamako, briefly seizing hostages and leaving at least two people dead.



The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.



Security forces battled the gunmen at the site, with nearby residents reporting hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP, adding that at least one of the attackers was injured and gave up his arms.



Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese.He said the second body was being identified, adding: Operations are ongoing. We are searching room by room.

#7:00 AM (IST) Update: 4 assailants killed

Four assailants have been killed by security forces in Mali after an attack on a tourist resort popular with foreigners close to the capital Bamako, the country's security minister said. "We have recovered the bodies of two attackers who were killed", Salif Traore told journalists, adding that they were"searching for the bodies of two others", without specifying if any more were on the run.

@MarkCollyerReal I am at your villa near Bamako in #Mali there is something bad happening outside pray for us its terrible pic.twitter.com/NLntTZKnhT  MikeC (@mikethecraigy) June 18, 2017

Developing story: A popular holiday resort reported to be under attack in #Mali, attack started around 4.30 pm local time. #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/cKJkFh2KbP  Mweli Masilela (@mwelimasilela) June 18, 2017

A source close to the case said the number of hostages freed was raised to 32, but there was no immediate information on their nationalities.

At least 14 people, both Malians and foreigners, were injured, the ministry said.An official from the security ministry confirmed earlier that Malian special forces, backed up by UN soldiers and troops from a French counter-terrorism force have sealed off the area and are in the process of organising operations against the attackers.



The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.



French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Bamako on July 2 for a meeting with five Sahel countries, is following the situation very closely, the presidency told AFP yesterday.



Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest), although no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Read | Manila casino attack: 34 killed, gunman shot dead; Police suspects robbery attempt, not terrorist attack



The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent.



In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.



That attack was claimed by Al-Qaedas North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).



In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.



The Kangaba, located on the eastern edge of Bamako, boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools, according to its website.



A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months, but attacks are continuing.



In 2012 Malis north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.



But jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.



The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.



Yesterdays attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists.



In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou. AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.



In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.



The United Nations has a 12,000-strong force in Mali known as MINUSMA, which began operations in 2013.



It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed, including five on Saturday.



France also has 4,000 soldiers in its Bakhane force in five countriesMali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Fasoall of which are threatened by the jihadists across their porous borders.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

Professor of the North Carolina University of the US, the Nobel Prize Laureate Aziz Sancar who is currently visiting Azerbaijan met with Media representatives at UNEC.

Expressing loves to Baku, A.Sancar said he is pleased to visit Azerbaijan: I loved Baku very much; it is a beautiful and neat city. I suppose that I had had very sufficient meetings here. I met with Education Minister and a President of the ANAS. I witnessed that the scholars in Azerbaijan possess rich knowledge and conduct very useful affairs.

The Nobel Prize winner assessed the work done in the field of non-technologies in Azerbaijan. He responded the journalists questions about the emergence and treatment of diabetes and cancer. He said the treatment of diabetes and cancer is still not found fully. A healthy lifestyle is the best way to fight diabetes. However, people should care about their health before they catch any disease. To prevent cancer you may at least stop smoking. 30 percent of cancer around the world occurs from cigarettes. The scientists are working on remaining percent in the world. They achieved some success, but it is difficult to say when the cancer will disappear and when the will its treatment be found. Commenting on the allegations made in connection with the increase of cancer as a result of the development of technologies in recent years, A.Sancar noted although there are claims in this regard, there is no evidence to prove that.

The scholar who devoted his life to science said if I were born once again I would have chosen the profession of teacher: Teaching is a really sacred profession. They determine the nations future.

Highlighting that the Nobel is not a key factor, the scholar said his name was indicated in the textbooks before he was awarded: My name has been mentioned in the textbooks in Biochemistry since 1982. The Nobel Prize introduced me to people who are not engaged in this area. Lack of the Nobel Prize does not diminish the contributions made by a scientist. For example, Lutvi Zadeh was not awarded as there is no the Nobel Prize in Mathematics. But I can say with certainty that Lutvi Zadeh is greater than the Nobel. I was quite astonished when acquainted with his invention 20 years before.

In the end of the meeting A.Sancar once more expressed satisfaction of his trip in Azerbaijan; I had a week left deep impressions on me. So I am grateful to you!

A.Sancar was presented an exclusive Garabagh tie with a khari bulbul (nightingale) on it.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

Trend:

Baku will host the meeting, titled Youth of Russia and Azerbaijan: traditional values  reference point to the future, on June 20.

The event will be held as part of the project Forum of Young Leaders of Eurasian countries, to be held in Moscow in autumn 2017.

Organizers of the experts meeting are the representation of the North-South political center and the Expert Council of the Baku International Policy and Security Network (Baku Network).

The meeting, which will be attended by political analysts, experts, heads of youth organizations, scientists and journalists, will be held at the Central Library of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Maksim Tsurkov  Trend:

The purpose of the joint work on the South-West corridor, which comprises railways of Azerbaijan, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine and Poland, is to create a new attractive logistics product, head of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC Javid Gurbanov told a meeting with officials from the five countries railway authorities in Baku.

He said this corridor will cover such countries and regions as India, Pakistan, Southeast Asia and the Persian Gulf, and expressed confidence that the South-West route has a great future.

The total length of the corridor is 7,654 kilometers. Our goal is to make it attractive, Gurbanov said, adding delivery of cargo by rail will take 15 days.

The main goal is to create a new logistics product, attract a large flow of cargo to the corridor and make it popular, he noted.
OTTAWA, June 16, 2017 /CNW/ - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will host the Annual Conference of the Governor General, Lieutenant Governors and Territorial Commissioners, at Rideau Hall, from June 18 to 20, 2017.

The governor general, lieutenant governors and territorial commissioners meet annually to discuss how they can better serve Canadians from coast to coast to coast. During the conference, the viceregal representatives will attend the following events:

Presentation of Canadian Honours in Recognition of Outstanding Indigenous leadership, June 19 , at 11 a.m.

Inauguration of Rideau Hall's forecourt, June 19 , at 4 p.m.

Presentation of awards for the Imagine a Canada initiative, June 20 , at 10:30 a.m.

Ceremonial planting of the Regal Celebration Maple tree on June 20 , at 3 p.m.

Information related to some of these events will be available in separate news releases.

It is anticipated that they will attend a traditional Royal Assent ceremony in the Senate Chamber on June 19 at 7 p.m. Below are details related to the Traditional Royal Assent and the ceremonial tree planting.

Monday, June 19

7 p.m.

Traditional Royal Assent

In the event this formal ceremony takes place in the Senate Chamber, the Governor General, as The Queen's representative, would grant Royal Assent to bills passed by both the Senate and the House of Commons, thereby making them Acts of Parliament. This would be the first time this ceremony is attended by lieutenant governors from across the country and the commissioner of Yukon.

Senate Chamber, Parliament Hill

POOLED MEDIA ONLY

MEDIA CONTACT: Victoria Deng, Senate Chamber, 613-995-2891, [email protected]

Tuesday, June 20

3 p.m.

Ceremonial Planting of the Regal Celebration Maple Tree

His Excellency, joined by his viceregal colleagues, will mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation with the planting of the Regal Celebration Maple tree with soil from provinces and territories from across the country. The tree combines the hardiness of Western maples with the bright red fall colour of those in Eastern Canada. Jeffries Nurseries of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, developed the tree through crossbreeding and hardiness trials over two decades.

Over 140 commemorative trees grace the grounds of Rideau Hall, the official residence of the governor general of Canada. They mark visits by members of the Royal Family, heads of State and other dignitaries and special events, such as the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

Grounds of Rideau Hall

OPEN TO MEDIA

Media wishing to cover the ceremonial tree planting at Rideau Hall are asked to confirm their attendance with the Rideau Hall Press Office, and must arrive no later than 2:45 p.m. on the day of the event.

Follow GGDavidJohnston and RideauHall on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE Governor General of Canada

For further information: Media information: Marie-Eve Letourneau, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-0287, 613-302-0912 (cell), [email protected]
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Azerbaijan exported goods worth $252.83 million to Georgia in January-May 2017 that is by 35.6 percent more than in the same period of 2016, according to a report of Georgias National Statistics Office.

Azerbaijan ranks third with the specific weight of 8.6 percent as of January-May 2017 (7 percent in January-May 2016) among the main countries exporting goods to Georgia, said the report.

Turkey is the leader with $494.01 million (16.8 percent), while Russia ranks second with $279.36 million (9.5 percent) among the main countries exporting goods to Georgia.

According to the report, Georgias trade turnover with Azerbaijan totaled $316.29 million in January-May 2017. The specific weight of Azerbaijans trade turnover with Georgia is 8 percent of the total volume of Georgias foreign trade operations.
Hon. Melanie Joly will welcome provincial and territorial ministers from across the country to Canada's Capital Region for the 22nd Ministerial Conference on the Canadian Francophonie

GATINEAU, QC, June 16, 2017 /CNW/ - The Canadian Francophonie is an integral part of Canadian society and a key component of our national identity. On June 22 and 23, 2017, the Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, will welcome Canada's provincial and territorial ministers responsible for the Canadian Francophonie to Gatineau for the 22nd Ministerial Conference on the Canadian Francophonie.

Federal, provincial and territorial ministers will gather in Canada's Capital Region to discuss a host of topics that affect Francophone communities in both majority and minority settings across the country.

This year marks the first time that the Government of Canada will host the Conference since the annual gathering was created in 1994. This is particularly significant, as we celebrate Canada 150, and the important role that Francophone communities have played in shaping the identity and culture of Canada.

This year's conference will be co-chaired by the Government of Yukon.

Quotes

"Our official languages are an integral part of our Canadian identity, and our government is committed to the development of Francophone communities all across the country. This is why the federal government is pleased to host the annual Ministerial Conference on the Canadian Francophonie in Canada's Capital Region. Giving a different character to this year's conference is another way of making the Canadian Francophonie a part of Canada 150 celebrations."

The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage

Quick Facts

The Ministerial Conference on the Canadian Francophonie, created in 1994, is a gathering of Federal, provincial and territorial ministers. It is the only intergovernmental forum for ministers responsible for the Canadian Francophonie.

Ministers at the conference work together to promote an open, active and diversified Francophone community that contributes to and fully participates in the development of Canadian society.'

This year marks the first time that the Government of Canada will host the Conference since the annual gathering was created in 1994.

Associated Links

Ministerial Conference on the Canadian Francophonie http://www.cmfc-mccf.ca/

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

For further information: (media only), please contact: Pierre-Olivier Herbert, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, 819-997-7788; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.pch.gc.ca


TORONTO and HOUSTON, TX, June 16, 2017 /CNW/ - Medicenna Therapeutics Corp. ("Medicenna" or the "Company") (TSXV: MDNA), a clinical stage immuno-oncology company, today announced its operational and financial results for the year ended March 31, 2017.

"The past year has been transformational for Medicenna, achieving several clinical, corporate and financial milestones, with treatment of the first recurrent glioblastoma patient in our Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55 being the most significant," said Dr. Fahar Merchant, Chairman, President and CEO of Medicenna. "We extended our cash runway by successfully completing a series of private placements raising $14 million in capital, completed a reverse takeover, began trading on the TSXV and solidified our platform technology following the issuance of three additional patents. We have complemented these milestones by initiating activities related to our pre-clinical pipeline that we believe could generate substantial value to our shareholders for years to come. We look forward to the year ahead and top-line data from the MDNA55 Phase 2b clinical trial."

The following are the achievements and highlights for the year ending March 31, 2017 through to the date hereof:

Initiated a Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55 for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma (rGB), the most common and uniformly fatal form of brain cancer, and treated the first patient in April 2017 . Medicenna expects to complete enrolment in the clinical study by the end of 2017;

. Medicenna expects to complete enrolment in the clinical study by the end of 2017; Completed a reverse takeover transaction (the "Transaction") resulting in its shares trading on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) under the symbol "MDNA" in March 2017 ;

; Raised $14 million through a series of private placement financings and received an advance of USD $5 million in February 2017 of the USD $14.1 million in nondilutive funds awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas ("CPRIT");

through a series of private placement financings and received an advance of USD in of the USD in nondilutive funds awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of ("CPRIT"); Strengthened its patent portfolio with the issuance of two U.S. patents related to the Company's Superkine platform, and a patent covering the combination of MDNA55 with other anti-cancer therapeutic agents;

Entered into a multi-year sponsored research agreement with MD Anderson Cancer Center ("MDACC") to pursue development of next-generation fully human IL4-Empowered Cytokines ("MDNA57") for the treatment non-CNS cancers;

Strengthened its management team by appointing Dr. Martin Bexon as Head of Clinical Development, Elizabeth Williams as Chief Financial Officer, and Patrick Ward as Chief Operating Officer; and

as Head of Clinical Development, as Chief Financial Officer, and as Chief Operating Officer; and Added expertise to its Board of Directors by appointing Mr. Albert Beraldo , Mr. Andrew Strong , and Dr. Chandra Panchal as non-executive independent directors.

Annual Financial Results

Net loss for the year ended March 31, 2017 was $7,631,265, compared to a net loss of $1,334,064 for the year ended March 31, 2016. The increase in net loss in the year ended March 31, 2017 compared with the year ended March 31, 2016 was primarily a result of a one-time non-cash listing expense of $1,784,414 related to the Transaction, costs associated with initiating the Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55 (including headcount necessary to support the ongoing trial), intellectual property costs (including a one-time license payment of $636,000 related to the Transaction), professional fees related to the Transaction and increased general corporate expenditures necessary to establish and operate a public company.

Research and development expenses for the year ended March 31, 2017 were $4,229,110, compared to $771,408 for the year ended March 31, 2016. The increase is primarily due to costs associated with the initiation of the Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55 - including purchase of clinical supplies such as drug delivery software and catheters - regulatory filing costs, outsourcing of trial related activities to clinical research organizations and site initiation costs. In addition, a one-time license fee payment of $636,000 became due upon completion of the Transaction and is payable in equal instalments over four years. Salaries and benefits also rose in the current year due to increased headcount to support the initiation and ongoing management of the Phase 2b clinical trial. Discovery and pre-clinical activities increased due to initiation of the IL-2 Superkine (MDNA109) and MDNA57 programs, the latter of which is being developed in collaboration with MDACC.

General and administrative expenses for the year ended March 31, 2017 were $1,684,611, compared to $428,256 for the year ended March 31, 2016. The increase is primarily due to professional fees associated with the private placement and subscription receipt financings, investor relations activities as well as legal fees related to the Transaction. Salaries and benefits also increased due to additional personnel needed to support ongoing activities and the establishment and operation of a public company.

Quarterly Financial Results

Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $4,355,743 compared to a net loss of $197,732 for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The increase is primarily the result of clinical trial costs associated with enrollment and development initiatives as well as site costs related to the initiation of the Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55. In addition, a research and development warrant was issued to consultants working with Medicenna on the development of its early stage programs. The warrant was issued January 1, 2017 and vests over an expected 24-month period. The amount recorded in the year ended March 31, 2017 relates to the fair value expense for the three-month period following issuance. A one-time non-cash expense related to the Transaction of $1,784,414 was also incurred in the three months ended March 31, 2017, resulting from the Transaction. Expenses related to the Transaction as well as a one-time license fee of $636,000 were also incurred during this period.

Research and development expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were $2,044,540 compared to ($162,654) in the three month period ended March 31, 2016. The increase in research and development expenditures for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were due to the initiation of the Phase 2b clinical trial of MDNA55, the MDACC collaboration and a one-time license fee discussed above. The credit balance in the three-months ended March 31, 2016 was attributable to a refund of previously incurred expenses from CPRIT.

General and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 were $542,243 compared to $226,535 in the three months ended March 31, 2016. The increase over the prior year is due to an increase in legal and other professional fees related to the Transaction and stock option expenses in the current year period, which represent the fair value amortization of stock option grants issued in February 2017 to general and administrative employees and directors. Furthermore, facilities and operations expenses increased due to the maintenance of an office space in Houston to support ongoing operations in Texas.

Outlook

The Company will focus on completing patient enrollment for its Phase 2b clinical trial for MDNA55, and expects top-line results in early 2018. Medicenna also plans to begin enrolling patients for a Phase 2 clinical trial of MDNA55 for the treatment of metastatic brain cancer in the second half of 2017.

At March 31, 2017, the Company had $14,038,115 in cash and an additional US $6.5 million available under the CPRIT grant.

Stock Option Grant

On June 15, 2017, Medicenna issued 125,000 stock options to an Officer of the Company. The options have an exercise price of $2.40 per share and a ten year life. The options vest over a three year period.

About Medicenna Therapeutics Corp.

Medicenna is a clinical stage immuno-oncology company developing novel highly selective versions of IL-2, IL-4 and IL-13 Superkines and first in class Empowered Cytokines (ECs). Its wholly owned subsidiary, Houston-based Medicenna BioPharma, is specifically targeting the Interleukin-4 Receptor (IL4R), which is over-expressed by at least 20 different types of cancer affecting more than one million new cancer patients every year. Medicenna's lead IL4-EC, MDNA55 is enrolling patients in a Phase 2b clinical trial for rGB at leading brain cancer centres in the US. MDNA55 has completed 3 clinical trials in 72 patients, including 66 adults with rGB, demonstrated compelling efficacy and obtained Fast-Track and Orphan Drug status from USFDA. Unlike most other cancer therapies, Medicenna's IL4-ECs have the potential to purge both the tumor and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, offering a unique treatment paradigm for a large majority of cancer patients. For more information, please visit www.medicenna.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to the future operations of the Company and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will", "may", "should", "anticipate", "expects" and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company, the ability of the company to attract institutional interest, the success of MDNA55 in past or future clinical trials and others are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include the risks detailed in the annual information form of the Company dated June 15, 2017 and in other filings made by the Company with the applicable securities regulators from time to time.

The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements only as expressly required by Canadian securities law.

SOURCE Medicenna Therapeutics Corp.

For further information: about the Company please contact: Fahar Merchant, President and Chief Executive Officer, 604-671-6673, [email protected], 200-1920 Yonge Street Toronto, Ontario Canada M4S 3E2; Elizabeth Williams, Chief Financial Officer, 416-648-5555, [email protected]
WICHITA, Kan., June 19, 2017 /CNW/ -- Spirit AeroSystems [NYSE: SPR] announced the creation of a new center of excellence focusing on the fabrication of complex commercial and military aircraft parts. The new center, located on the company's headquarters campus in Wichita, Kan., will include new five-axis machines to manufacture complex aluminum and titanium parts.

Spirit, already one of the world's largest fabricators of aerospace parts, has invested more than $30 million in the new five-axis center of excellence in Wichita, which now includes 120 different machine tools.

"We continue to invest in fabrication capabilities, and these expansions will help us better compete globally and remain leaders in the industry," said Spirit Senior Vice President of Operations Ron Rabe. "The new center of excellence offers significant capabilities to meet our current and future customer needs with better quality and improved turn time."

The new five-axis center of excellence will utilize the latest high-speed technology to specialize in large, complex parts for fuselage, pylon and wing structures. The center will be fully operational later this year.

"We also have capacity and capability to support chemical processing and finishing of machined parts," said Alan Young, Spirit's vice president of Fabrication. "We have developed significant capability over many decades, and now we can provide that expertise to customers around the world."

Chemical processing of component parts completes the manufacturing process and ensures proper coating on part surfaces to protect against corrosion. Chemical processing at Spirit includes cleaning, penetrant inspection, anodizing, priming and top-coat painting, with various colors available to support customer requirements. With one of the world's largest automated chemical processing lines, Spirit has already processed parts for other customers this year in Wichita.

Spirit's fabrication capability spans more than 2.6 million square feet and produces more than 38,000 parts daily.

The new capabilities and emphasis on the fabrication business is one of Spirit's growth strategies as the company focuses on new business.

On the web: www.spiritaero.com

On Twitter: @SpiritAero

About Spirit AeroSystems

Spirit AeroSystems designs and builds aerostructures for both commercial and defense customers. With headquarters in Wichita, Kansas, Spirit operates sites in the U.S., U.K., France and Malaysia. The company's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components for the world's premier aircraft. Spirit AeroSystems focuses on affordable, innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions to support customers around the globe. More information is available at www.spiritaero.com.

SOURCE Spirit AeroSystems

For further information: Jarrod Bartlett, (316) 523-5649 - direct, (316) 925-1852 - cell, [email protected], http://www.spiritaero.com

Related Links

http://www.spiritaero.com


Blog_19349585_1530065830371267_670865623_o.JPG

The leading edge of a thunderstorm rolls into Clay Sunday afternoon. This photo was shot by Mikey Natalizio at the Santoro's Softball Fields on Henry Clay Boulevard.

(Special to Syracuse.com)

Syracuse, N.Y. -- After a series of damaging storms knocked down trees in Upstate New York on Father's Day, more storms could roll through this afternoon.

Severe storms are possible across Upstate New York today, but the greatest chances are in the Hudson Valley, Capital District and Catskills.

The storms could strike across Upstate, but the highest chances are in Central New York, the Capital District and Hudson Valley, where damaging winds and flash flooding are possible.

Strong storms could start to develop around lunchtime in Central New York and get stronger as they move east. The strongest of the storms are expected to hit in late afternoon in the southern Hudson Valley, according to the National Weather Service. There's a 30 percent chance that severe storms will hit that region, with the possibility of large hail and even a few tornadoes.

Here's what the local weather service offices are saying about today's weather:

Hudson Valley/Capital District. "More widespread rainfall, heavy at times, along with strong to severe thunderstorms are expected through this evening, as a slow moving frontal boundary gradually pushes east across the region." A flash flood watch is in effect.

Central New York: "Significant flash flooding is possible with road washouts as well as possible small stream flooding." There could also be scattered downed trees and power outages. "Significant tree damage and some structural damage are possible in strongest storms."

Western New York. "The rain has already ended for areas close to Lake Erie from Dunkirk up to Buffalo and Niagara Falls. As the cold

The weather service received dozens of reports Sunday from Central and Western New York for trees and wires down.

Contact Glenn Coin: Email | Twitter | Google + | (315) 470-3251
By GMM 19 June 2017 - 11:55





Honda looks set to deliver a much-needed engine upgrade this weekend in Baku.

In Canada just over a week ago, McLaren chiefs admitted their frustration was at boiling point after the teams hapless Japanese partner failed to deliver the upgrade as scheduled.

Hondas F1 chief Yusuke Hasegawa then said he could not promise it will even be ready for the following race in Azerbaijan.

But he has now told the Japanese publication Sportiva: "There will be some kind of improvement in the combustion engine in Baku.

"I dont know if you can call it specification three, but well definitely introduce something even if it is intermediate," Hasegawa added.

The report said Honda has been working hard on specification three at Sakura to address the current power units problems, including excessive vibration and a 90hp performance deficit.

But Hasegawa played down hopes the new engine will completely end Hondas 2017 troubles.

"If you improve the combustion engine, the temperature of the exhaust decreases by being more efficient, which reduces the energy recovered through the turbo and MGU-H, making it necessary to change these parts too.

"The situation is more complicated than people can imagine," he added.

The outcome of Hondas latest efforts to improve could be the final straw for the McLaren partnership, and also the next turning point in the career of Fernando Alonso.

"Due to some of his decisions, Fernando could be remembered as one of the lost talents of F1," former Honda F1 team boss Nick Fry is quoted by Spains La Sexta.
The Federal Government said on Monday it would use a fraction of the looted funds recovered so far to finance part of the 2017 budget.The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Sen. Udoma Udo Udoma, said this at the 2017 budget breakdown in Abuja.He said the total revenue projected was N5.08tn, with 11 percent coming from the recoveries made.On recoveries, we are being extremely conservative; what is in the budget is what we know about already.So if more comes, we will use it.Know that recoveries of looted funds are not the most dependable way to finance the budget because of the legal processes that have to be concluded before it can be spent.So, the money quoted in the budget is the one we have already recovered and in our pocket to spend as we wish.He said the total revenue projected exceeded the 2016 projection by 30.26 percent, adding that oil revenue projection was put at 41.7 percent compared to 19 percent in 2016.Udoma added that the high revenue expectation from oil was driven by Joint Venture Calls (JVC) cost reduction, higher production and price, exchange rate as well as additional oil-related revenues.According to him, Company Income Tax (CIT) will contribute 15.9 per cent, Value Added Tax (VAT) 4.8 per cent, Independent Revenue 15.9 per cent and others 5.2 per cent.He also said the projected budget deficit which stood at N2.36tn remained relatively low at 2.18 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).This is within the 3 percent threshold stipulated in the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA).The budget is to be financed mainly by borrowings which have been projected at N2.32tn.Of this amount, N1.07tn is intended to be sourced externally, while N1.25tn will be sourced domestically.Udoma stated that N35bn is expected as revenue from the outright sale of government property and privatisation of state-owned enterprises.He said to generate the projected revenue, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Customs had been challenged to improve their efficiency and broaden their reach to achieve the set targets in the 2017 budget.He said the Federal Government would strive to maximise the revenues it could generate from the oil and gas sector because the foreign exchange generated from the sector was critical for plans to diversify to the non-oil sectors.It is important that we use what we have to get what we need and want and what we have is oil.It is important that we make sure there is peace in the Niger Delta so that we can achieve the maximum from that resource, he said.The N7.44tn budget was signed into law by the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on June 12, a month after it was passed by the National Assembly.Referred to as the budget of recovery, the budget was first presented on Dec. 14, 2016, to the two chambers of the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari at an estimate of N7.30tn.The lawmakers, however, increased it by N143bn.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Maksim Tsurkov  Trend:

Officials from Azerbaijani, Georgian and Turkish railway authorities will discuss the implementation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) project in Kars, Turkey on July 5, head of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC Javid Gurbanov told reporters in Baku.

The date of the BTK launch can be announced after that meeting. The project is expected to be launched this year, he said June 19.

The BTK railway is being constructed on the basis of the Georgian-Azerbaijani-Turkish intergovernmental agreement.

The peak capacity of the railway will be 17 million tons of cargo per year. At the initial stage, this figure will be one million passengers and 6.5 million tons of cargo.
At least one person has died and 10 others were injured when a van drove into a group of worshippers outside a London mosque early Mond...

At least one person has died and 10 others were injured when a van drove into a group of worshippers outside a London mosque early Monday in what police are investigating as a potential terrorist incident.Londons Metropolitan Police said the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Eight others were taken to three area hospitals and two were treated at the scene.The driver of the van, aged 48, was detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police in connection with the incident, authorities said.He was taken to the hospital and will be subject to a mental health evaluation.Counter-terrorism police were leading the investigation.The Muslim Council said in a tweet that worshippers were struck by the van while leaving prayers near Finsbury Park mosque. It said its prayers are with the victims.London police have declared the crash a major incident and closed the area to normal traffic. A helicopter circled above the area as a large cordon was established to keep motorists and pedestrians away.Eyewitness told Sky News and other British media that the van seemed to have veered and hit people intentionally. Police did not confirm that.Mohammed Shafiq of the Ramadhan Foundation, a Muslim organization, said that based on eyewitness reports it seems to be a deliberate attack against innocent Muslims.The neighbourhood has two mosques, and several hundred worshippers would have been in the area after attending prayers as part of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.The Finsbury Park mosque was associated with extremist ideology for several years after the 9/11 attacks in the United States but was shut down and reorganized.It has not been associated with radical views for more than a decade.Prime Minister Theresa May described the crash as a terrible incident. The statement from her office said her thoughts were with the injured, their loved ones and emergency services who responded to the scene.Jeremy Corbyn, leader of Britains Labour Party, said in a tweet he was shocked by the incident.(NAN)
Nigeria is not yet a full-blown democracy but a work in progress, All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu h...

Nigeria is not yet a full-blown democracy but a work in progress, All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said.He said everyone must work towards moving Nigeria from being a civilian dispensation to a true democracy.The former Lagos State governor spoke in Lagos at the weekend when he received the National Icon of Democracy award at the Tell Awards for Excellence 2016.It was held at the Civic Centre on Victoria Island on Saturday night.Tinubu, represented by former Lagos Commissioner for Information and Strategy Mr. Dele Alake, said some of the tenets of democracy were still lacking, adding that such heights could be attained.This civilian dispensation that we have  we dont call it full blown democracy. What we have today is a civilian dispensation. So, our democracy is a work in progress, and we believe by the grace of God that well achieve full blown democracy in our time.So, every one of us must work towards full blown democracy in Nigeria. We all know the tenets and principles of full blown democracy. And we hope we shall achieve them in our own time in Nigeria, he said.Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade and his Borno counterpart Kashim Shettima jointly won the Governor of the Year Award. Ayade was represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ivara Esu.First Lady Mrs. Aisha Buhari was named the Woman of the Year. She was represented by her Chief of Staff Dr. Hajo Sani.Man of the Year awards went to the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and Emir of Kano Muhammad Sanusi II.Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Prof. Umar Danbatta got the Chief Executive Officer of the Year award; the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) received the Public Organisation of the Year award; while Dangote Cement was named the Private Sector Organisation of the Year.Chairman of Zinox Group Leo Stan Ekeh was got the Lifetime Pioneering Entrepreneur of the Year award; Air Peace won the Domestic Airline of the Year, while the Comptroller-General of Immigration Muhammad Babandede got the Outstanding Public Servant of the Year award.Post-humous awards were given to the pioneer Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine, the late Dele Giwa, and the human rights crusader, the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN).Giwa got the All-Time Award of National Icon of Freedom of Speech; Fawehinmi got the All-Time National Hero Award for Rule of Law and Human Rights Advocacy.Tinubu praised Tell for its commitment to democracy through advocacy journalism, and urged other media outfits to emulate it.People of my own generation have nothing but nostalgia for the type of journalism that Tell represented in those heady days of militarism. Tell was at the forefront of advocacy journalism, with an array of prolific writers dishing out deep and thought provoking analysis on the state of Nigeria with the attendant risk to their own lives.Nigerian journalism today must return to that era of deep investigative journalism, of probing facts, incisive analysis, insightful opinions, and cogent editorials, so that the level of enlightenment of Nigerians can be enhanced towards enthronement of democracy, he said.Some of the awardees spoke of the need to sustain Nigerias unity.Shettima, who condemned the quit notice issued the Igbo by Northern youth groups, said the countrys strength lies in its diversity.No one has the mandate to give anyone a quit notice. We are very proud of the Igbo. Nobody can drive them out of the North, he said.He urged the elite and elders to be united in their condemnation of all forms of extremism, adding that everything must be done to keep Nigeria united.The hope of the black man lies in the people of Nigeria, Shettima said.Giving the reasons why Ayade was picked, Igiebor said: Ayades leadership style has shown that with the right kind of leaders, Nigeria can indeed be a great country we all dream of.He added: When the committee decided that we threw the selection process open to Nigerians to decide who their Governor of the Year was, Ayades name was a recurrent decimal because of his outstanding performance in Cross River State.We wanted to celebrate heroes of service in Nigeria. Ayade was less than two years in office and he had already shown the way as well as become a role model in the country.He noted that the organisers of the award were impressed with the governors performs in such a short time despite the challenges of the economy.Ayade, who was represented by Deputy Governor Ivara Esu, said it was a great challenge to deliver democratic dividends to the citizenry, given the parlous state of the economy and the harsh realities of the current economic recession.The late Fawehimnis son, Mohammed, faulted agitations for secession by various groups, and reiterated that Nigerias strength lies in its diversity.Tells President Nosa Igiebor said the awards recognised credibility and worthiness of the distinguished Nigerians.He paid tribute to the late Moshood Abiola, whose election as President was annulled.Igiebor said it was an irony that the Southwest resisted moves to immortalise Abiola by renaming the University of Lagos after him.But, Alake disagreed, saying the Southwests seeming rejection of the honour was because Abiola deserved a national honour and recognition, such as having the National Stadium in Abuja named after him.Also at the event were former Information Minister Prince Tony Momoh, Vanguard Publisher Sam Amuka, former Lagos Deputy Governor Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, The Nation Editorial Board Chairman Sam Omatseye, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), among others.
National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ali Modu Sheriff, has spoken ahead of the anticipated Supreme Court ruling on the leadership tussle in the party.He also said the recent position by the governors that they will unite irrespective of what the apex court decides was a welcome development and a good step.Sheriff, who spoke through his deputy, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, assured that no one will be victimised for any role played during the conflict for the battle to control PDP.We totally agree with the position of the governors. It is the Lords doing but from experience, we do hope that they will abide by what they have said. You know that we love the party, all of us, including the national chairman. We love the party and we will do everything possible to grow the party.We encourage them to abide by what they have said that it will be no victor, no vanquished and we urge them to hold tight to what they believe in, because if the ruling turns against them they should not say that they are pulling out.We believe that the position they have taken is the correct one and that the party is one and will reunite and grow from there. Nobody will be punished for any role he or she might have played during the conflict in the spirit of no victor, no vanquished.It will now be the time for reconciliation, reconstruction and remaking the party, Ojougboh told Thisday.Recall that Sheriff last Thursday presented the partys flag to Ademola Adeleke, candidate for the Osun West by-election.Ademola, brother of deceased Senator Adeleke, in his response boasted that he will win the by-election on July 8.
The General Overseer of the Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke-Afa, Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele Babatunde, says the Code of Conduct T...

The General Overseer of the Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke-Afa, Lagos, Primate Elijah Ayodele Babatunde, says the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) acquittal of the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, does not mean he is entirely off the hook of his political persecutors. The cleric said this in reaction to Sarakis victory at the CCT a few days ago.





Primate Ayodele had in July 2015, warned that Saraki would face scandals in form of political persecution.

Back in July 2015, he said: Saraki will be enmeshed in some kind of scandal for political reasons, but also warned, It will be difficult to remove Saraki.

Again in 2016, he said the Senate President would survive his political battles if he did what the party wanted.

At the weekend, Ayodele said: There would still be friction between the senators and the presidency. We must also pray against the death of a member of the National Assembly. We should pray that Nigerians would not cry.

We have been saying since 2015 that corruption will fight back the government of President Muhammadu Buhari. We had also predicted in the yearly book of prophecy that a notorious kidnap kingpin would be arrested. That is contained in the 2016/2017 edition of the Warnings to the Nation.

The London blaze was also predicted in the same edition of the book of prophecies. The spirit of God had led me to foresee a strange fire that will engulf a London tower, and we had issued the warning that the UK should pray against the incident.

We had warned Governor Yaya Bello that there would be serious attempt to rubbish his government. Now God is telling the governor to tread softly on the tango between himself and Senator Dino Melaye.

Primate Ayodele also advised the Federal Government about the quit notice given to Igbo, saying: The quit notice handed out to our Igbo brothers and sisters in the north is a strong indication that Nigeria is nearing a breaking point. It is only God that can save us from the imminent break-up and even destabilisation.

I advise that the government should manage the issue very well so we dont experience critical ethnic crisis again.
Croatian prosecutors said Monday they were opening an investigation into whether Real Madrids Luka Modric gave false testimony at the trial of Dinamo Zagrebs powerful former boss, Zdravko Mamic.The 31-year-old midfielder is suspected of committing the criminal offence of giving false testimony on June 13 at the tribunal in eastern Croatia, according to the prosecutors statement.The statement did not name Modric directly but referred to a Croatian citizen born in 1985.Mamic is accused  along with his brother Zoran Mamic and two others  of abuse, power and graft that cost the former Croatian champions more than 15 million euros ($17.6 million), and the state 1.5 million euros.Cash was allegedly embezzled through fictitious deals related to player transfers, and Modric was called last week to testify over the details of his 2008 transfer from Dinamo to Tottenham Hotspur.From there he joined Real Madrid in 2012.The prosecutors alleged that, when questioned last week, Modric falsely said he had signed an annex to a contract with Dinamo over conditions for future transfers in July 2004.When questioned during investigations in 2015, Modric said the annex was signed after he had joined Tottenham, according to the prosecutors.
SaharaReporters has obtained yet another audio recording, the third so far, in which controversial Senator Dino Melaye from Kogi State and ...

SaharaReporters has obtained yet another audio recording, the third so far, in which controversial Senator Dino Melaye from Kogi State and a senior police officer can be heard discussing how best to pressure Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris Kpotum, to toe Mr. Melayes line and possibly order the arrest of innocent people from the senators home state, Kogi. Mr. Melaye had claimed there was an assassination attempt on his life.









The audio, in which Senator Melaye speaks in Hausa, comes in the wake of two earlier audiotapes.





The first audio was a conversation between Melaye and a female judge, Akon Ikpeme. In it, the senator is heard discussing a bribe in dollars with the judge who was at the time a member of an electoral tribunal handling an election petition against Mr. Melaye. Justice Ikpeme ultimately gave a verdict upholding the legitimacy of Mr. Melayes election. (read HERE





In a second tape obtained and released by SaharaReporters, Senator Melaye is heard discussing his strategy to incriminate Edward Onoja, the Chief of Staff to the Kogi State governor, in the purported assassination. (read HERE





Since the senator first made a claim that an attempt had been made on his life, the police have arrested at least seven persons Mr. Melaye claimed were involved in the purported crime. All seven persons, including the chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, have been granted bail.





The latest tape reveals how some rogue police officers have been willing tools in the senators scheme to implicate innocent people in the so-called assassination attempt. The tape shows that some compromised police officers have advanced Mr. Melayes agenda of incriminating persons who had no role in the alleged capital crime if there was ever any effort to kill the senator.





The tape also validates Mr. Melayes boastful assertions in the second video that he and his backers were in control of federal security agencies which they could use at will to incriminate his opponents.





Listen to the audio:








Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

Azerbaijans Unibank OJSC sold its stake in the leasing company Unileasing, according to the banks audit report for 2016.

The report says that the bank, which had a 66.7-percent share in the company, sold it to three individuals, whose names have not been disclosed.

Currently, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which owns a 33.3-percent share, is also a shareholder of Unileasing CJSC.

The company was created in July 2004.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Maksim Tsurkov  Trend:

Azerbaijan, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine and Poland have signed a final protocol following the meeting on the South-West Transport Corridor project.

The document was signed by heads of railway authorities of the five countries  Javid Gurbanov, Saeed Mohammadzadeh, Mamuka Bakhtadze, Wojciech Balczun and Krzysztof Maminski.

The protocol envisages expanding cooperation opportunities on the South West route in order to optimize cargo transportation and increase transit capacity.

Under the document, the coordination work between the five countries railways on the South-West corridor was assigned to Azerbaijan Railways CJSC.

The Coordination Committee, under which a working group will be created, will deal with the issues of strategic importance and prospects of the corridor development. The working group will be based in Tehran.

The protocol said that a Coordination Committee meeting on the South-West corridor will be held in Odessa in September.

Along with the Trans-Caspian and North-South corridors, the South-West corridor is of great importance for Azerbaijan. The South-West corridor is supposed to run from India to Europe through the Persian Gulf, Iran, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and the Black Sea. At an initial stage, it is planned to transport 10 million tons of cargo via this route with the possibility of increasing the transportation volume by several times in the future.

An agreement on the South-West corridor was signed in 2016 by Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, and Ukraine in Baku. The corridor will make it possible to slash the time of cargo transportation from India to Europe by two or three times.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Anvar Mammadov  Trend:

The Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) adopted a resolution to increase the number of the banks members, the AIIB said in a message June 19.

The Board of Directors of the AIIB approved the applications of three countries, among which there will be one regional and two non-regional members, according to the message.

Tonga will be new regional member of the AIIB, while Argentina and Madagascar will become the banks non-regional members.

Thus, the total number of members of the bank will reach 80. New members will join the AIIB after the necessary internal processes are completed and the first capital contributions to the bank are made. The new members will receive their shares from the existing pool of unallocated shares of the AIIB.

Azerbaijans share in the AIIB capital is 0.2732 percent ($254.1 million).
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Azad Hasanli  Trend:

Azerbaijans Bank Respublika OJSC raised a loan of 20 million manats from the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) in 2016, according to the banks financial report audited by KPMG.

According to the report, the banks total loan debt to the CBA amounted to 155.03 million manats, which makes 66.3 percent of all loans taken by Bank Respublika. All loans were attracted at an annual interest rate of 3.5 percent.

During the period, the bank also had loan obligations to the State Fund for the Development of Information Technologies (605,000 manats), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (14.75 million manats), and the European Fund for Southeast Europe (2.5 million manats).

As of late 2016, the volume of the banks loans from the Azerbaijan Mortgage Fund OJSC totaled 23.3 million manats at an annual interest rate of 1-4 percent.

The banks loans from the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support totaled 37.55 million manats (interest rate of 1 percent).

Bank Respublika has been operating in Azerbaijan since 1992.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

The revival of the Russian-initiated South Stream gas pipeline project poses no risk to the Southern Gas Corridor project, which envisages delivery of Azerbaijani gas to Europe, Charles Ellinas, CEO of Cyprus-based energy consultancy e-CNHC told Trend.

All agreements on the Southern Gas Corridor are in place, gas sales are secure, the final investment decision (FID) has been reached and construction is on schedule - so the project is going ahead, said the expert.

Ellinas noted that it remains to be seen how and if the possibility of reviving the South Stream project turns into reality.

The US is considering applying sanctions on Russian pipelines, but already Germany and Austria responded quite strongly against this, asking the US not to interfere in EU's energy matters, reminded the expert.

Earlier, Austrian Der Standard newspaper reported that Austrian energy group OMV and Russia's Gazprom are considering reviving a gas pipeline project through the Black Sea connecting Russia to central and southern Europe.

However, answering Trends question regarding the reported talks, OMV said we do not comment market rumors in general.

In December 2014, Russia abandoned the South Stream project in favor of Turkish Stream, which envisages construction of a gas pipeline from Russia to Turkey through the Black Sea.

Russia and Turkey signed an intergovernmental agreement on the construction of two offshore strings of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline in October 2016. Each string is estimated to have an annual capacity of 15.75 billion cubic meters of natural gas. The first string will supply gas directly to Turkey, while the second is to be used to deliver gas to European countries through Turkey. Initially, Russia and Turkey planned to build four strings of the pipeline.

The Southern Gas Corridor envisages the transportation of gas from the Caspian Sea 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 project. 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 (TANAP) and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Once elected, members of the Public Service Commission typically have an easy time hanging onto their jobs. Voters dont know much about them or their work, and the only real money in the campaigns has traditionally come from utilities and others 
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Construction of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) continues at an accelerated pace, said Greeces Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

He made the remarks during a joint press conference with Turkeys Prime Minister Binali Yildirim in Athens on June 19.

According to Tsipras, TAP is one of important energy projects in the region.

TAP is a part of the Southern Gas Corridor, which is one of the priority energy projects for the European Union. The project envisages transportation of gas from Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz Stage 2 to the EU countries.

The pipeline will connect to the Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) on the Turkish-Greek border, run through Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Italys south.

TAP will be 878 kilometers in length (Greece 550 kilometers, Albania 215 kilometers, Adriatic Sea 105 kilometers, and Italy 8 kilometers).

TAPs shareholding is comprised of BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A. (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (5 percent).

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Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Welcome to non league daily news now - your number one spot for all things relating to the National League System. Our dedicated reporters have come straight from the sidelines to bring you news fresh from the dugout - but not before theyve stopped off at the burger van first!

We know that non league football fans are full of heart, passion, and belief. You trust the manager, you believe in the team, and, for some strange reason, you trust those rickety stands, too! Here at Non League Daily, we hope we can become your trusted non league news resource - a platform thats just as passionate about non league daily news now as you.

Come rain or shine, well be out reporting on the latest non league fixtures. Well also be scouring the news, refreshing social media, and sourcing information from team websites in the hopes of finding the latest breaking non league daily news for our readers.

As youll soon see, weve got exclusive match reports on the Vanarama National League, weve got transfer speculation thatll affect the National League South, weve found great stories thatll spice up the National League North, and weve even got news on the latest giant killers of the FA Cup.

We may not be able to agree on who is going up this year, but we can all agree that any news on the NLS worth knowing will be published here, at Non League Daily.
Welcome to nonleaguedaily.coms news provision, your go-to source for all non league updates, rumours, interviews, and much more besides.

Founded by a team with a genuine passion for the world of non league football, nonleaguedaily.com understands exactly what supporters of the so-called lower leagues are looking for. You want the high-quality reporting, in-depth analysis, and match reporting that matches that is more commonly found in the journalism for the top flights, but with the focus firmly fixed on the national leagues.

We understand that your passion, interest, and dedication is constant, and we believe you need a news service that matches that commitment with its own dedication and thoroughness  so thats what you can expect from our site.

The latest non league news, as and when it happens

Conventionally, non league news has always travelled fairly slowly, especially when compared to the instantaneous, constant breaking news cycles found in the upper leagues. Tales are told on terraces, rumours passed between pub patrons and circled between supporters at the latest game, often forced to remain somewhat local initially before word eventually spreads to other locales.

For us, this slow spread may be fairly organic in nature, but it simply isnt compatible with the modern football environment. Its also not conducive to the current fast-paced, always-available media landscape, nor the way that people tend to consume news nowadays. Thats why we have put together a non league news source that fans can turn to for the latest updates, as and when they happen, and as and when you want to read them. Non-league news now is the only acceptable speed at Betting.co.uk.

We update our non-league football news coverage constantly, bringing you all the latest developments and seeking to spread the word as quickly and accurately as possible. So if youre wondering whats happening both with your local team and with the lower leagues as a whole, you can visit us for non league news now, and be confident the stories you find are completely up to date.

News reported by passionate fans

Our efforts to bring you the very best non league football news are undeniably a professional concern, and one that we take seriously. We are  if youll excuse the uncharacteristic tooting of our own horns  good at what we do, and we know that the efforts we make in this regard are one of the reasons our site has enjoyed such success thus far.

However, everyone who writes for us also shares our readers enthusiasm for non league football. Were not just churning out content in the hopes of cashing in on a professional dream; were here because we want to be, and will always be dedicated and committed to non league football as an entity and thriving in the experience of being able to talk about our favourite subject whenever we can. We create non-league news now that is written by genuine fans and enthusiasts, for fans. We know what you want to know and what matters most to an ardent non league supporter, and we always ensure that focusing on these elements is our guiding principle as we seek to solidify our status as an online non league paper fans can always rely on.

When compiling non league news, we think with the mind of a fan first and foremost. We cover the angles and stories that we find compelling and that we know our fellow non league enthusiasts also care about. News doesnt have to be dry and formulaic, in our opinion. When its written by people who are genuinely as fascinated by the stories they are reporting on as their readership will be, we believe news can be interesting, compelling, and even have a sense of personality and humour.

News content written with passion and expertise

We believe that thanks to our dedication, insightfulness, and commitment to our subject matter of non league today, we are offering the best of both worlds to those searching for an online non league paper. We give you the professional approach we feel is appropriate for news about one of the most intriguing aspects of UK football; an aspect that we genuinely feel does not receive the interest and plaudits that it should be generating. Nevertheless, we dont let that professionalism take over everything we do: we remain committed fans, nurturing our own personal interest in non league football and ensuring every word we compose is infused with a sense of passion and dedication that enhances the posts we create.

Its therefore obvious that our non-league content today isnt ever going to be dry, basic, or put together by a tired staff writer who has never heard of any team below the Championship before they rush off to the pub for the evening. Our writers are genuine experts: were covering non league football because we want to, because we believe in it, and because its where our strengths lie. The result is informed content that capitalises on our deep knowledge of the history, as well as the present-day realities, of non league football in the UK.

Beyond news: the nonleaguedaily.com interview series

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We regularly conduct interviews as part of our news provision, asking the questions that are on everyones lips and providing the best possible view into the non league world. We have reporters pitchside at matches, microphone to hand and plentiful questions ready to be asked. The end result for you, the reader, is the kind of information and close-up looks into the non league world that just cant be found anywhere else.

As our commitment to providing interesting interviews amply demonstrates, we want to be involved in breaking the stories that everyone then talks about, rather than following along and focusing solely on what everyone already knows. If youre looking for leading content that you cant find anywhere else, and that goes right to the centre of the non league world, then you can turn to nonleaguedaily.com for all the benefits of a conventional non league paper, but in electronic, easily-accessed form.

A host of other content to enjoy alongside the non league today

Our focus on providing non league news will always be maintained: we consider this aspect the most important of what we do, and it will always be the recipient of our time, dedication, and interest. Well be here, a consistent and trustworthy news portal, for as long as non league football news exists.

With that said, when you have read up on the latest goings-on, were here with further content for you to enjoy. Naturally, given our partnership with leading brand Betting.co.uk, we provide guidelines for those interested in the world of sports betting. Well help you find the best UK bookmaker with our plentiful coverage of existing brands; ideal if youre looking to put your newfound knowledge, courtesy of us, about non league to use and place a few bets.

Furthermore, we also provide highlights of all the latest UK betting offers, so you can ensure youre achieving the best value with all the latest betting deals whenever youre betting on the latest non league matches. Youll find all of this coverage is as consistent and reliable as our non league news provision,

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So whether youre looking to find the most recent non league football news, seeking a new bookmaker for your non league bets, or hoping to delve deep into a niche non league-related topic, nonleaguedaily.com is always going to be worth a visit.

Return to nonleaguedaily.com for all your non league news needs

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New U.K. Treasury chief Jeremy Hunt has reversed most of an economic package announced by the government just weeks ago, including a planned cut in income taxes. Hunt said Monday he was scrapping almost all the tax cuts announced last month by the Conservative government of Prime Minister Liz Truss, and also signaled that public spending cuts are on the way. It was a bid to soothe turbulent financial markets spooked by fears of excessive government borrowing. The move raises questions about how long the beleaguered prime minister can stay in office, though Truss insisted she has no plans to quit. She vowed to lead the Conservatives into the next general election, but many in the party want her gone.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Elena Kosolapova  Trend:

EU will continue to seek to extend the Southern Gas Corridor to Central Asia, according conclusions of the European Council on the EU Strategy for Central Asia, adopted on June 19.

In the energy, infrastructure and transport sectors, the Council emphasizes that cooperation between the EU and Central Asia should prioritize the integration of the Central Asian countries with each other and into international markets and transport corridors. The EU will continue to seek to extend the Southern Gas Corridor to Central Asia, and to further promote the EU's multilateral and bilateral energy cooperation, the document, published on the website of the Council, reads.

The European Council stressed that the EU will also continue to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency in Central Asia by offering its expertise in the development of sound regulatory frameworks and by supporting investment cooperation with European financial institutions.

The Council noted that the countries of Central Asia have become significant partners of the EU.

Ten years after the adoption of the Central Asia strategy, and more than 25 years after the five countries became independent, the Council welcomes the progress achieved in developing the EU's relations with Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan as well as with the Central Asian region as a whole, the document said.

The Council reaffirmed the EU's commitment to develop stronger relations and highlighted the need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation on human rights, education, sustainability as well as on tackling emerging security challenges faced by the Central Asian countries.

The EU-Central Asia relations are being developed under the EU strategy for Central Asia, signed in 2007 and reviewed in 2015.

The Council also invited the High Representative and the Commission to come forward with a proposal for a new strategy by the end of 2019 in accordance with the EU Global Strategy.

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.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, June 19

By Demir Azizov  Trend:

The expansion of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which already includes India and Pakistan, will also have a direct impact on the situation in Afghanistan, Uzbekistans Deputy Foreign Minister Anvar Nasirov told reporters June 19.

Kabul now has more neighbors, which are the SCO member countries and directly interested in stabilizing the military, political situation and socio-economic development of this state, he noted.

According to the deputy minister, this will create favorable conditions for reaching a regional consensus on the political settlement of the Afghan crisis.

Nasirov emphasized that Uzbekistan considers the soonest normalization of the situation in Afghanistan as an important component of peace and security in the vast region.

Uzbekistan, resolutely supporting the efforts of Afghans and the international community to establish a peaceful life in the country, makes an effective contribution to the implementation of programs for the social and economic reconstruction of Afghanistan. Particularly, the country helps in the construction of many infrastructure facilities on Afghanistans territory.

Nasirov noted that Uzbekistans efforts aimed at strengthening peace and stability in the region were highly appreciated by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, who visited the country in the first decade of June.

During the visit, Antonio Guterres said that the atmosphere of peace and tranquility, harmony and tolerance prevailing in Uzbekistan fully corresponds to the main goals and principles of the UN, added Nasirov.
Wests Tigers prop Tim Grant has entered a plea of no contest to a grade one dangerous throw and will miss this week's clash with the Gold Coast Titans.

Grant could have avoided suspension with an early guilty plea but the no contest plea means he will have no carryover points to his name after serving a suspension this week.

Meanwhile Dragons forward Jack de Belin has until midday Tuesday to enter a plea to his dangerous contact charge, for which he is facing a one-match ban.
INDIANAPOLIS  The Indiana Court of Appeals has affirmed the murder conviction of a Gary man who claimed to be acting in self-defense when he fired eight shots at his wife's unarmed ex-husband, hitting him in the back and buttocks.

Gentry Jackson, now 36, is serving a 48-year prison term for killing Alec McCloud, 44, of Gary, on Aug. 3, 2015, outside Jackson's home in the 400 block of Ellsworth Street in Gary's Ambridge neighborhood.

In his appeal, Jackson argued that he only began shooting after McCloud pointed a gun at him, and he in no way intended to murder McCloud.

However, a witness to the crime testified that McCloud clearly was holding a phone, not a gun, while sitting in his parked car outside Jackson's house, according to court records.

Records also show that police did not find a gun in McCloud's car after he crashed it trying to get away from Jackson.

The appellate court, in its 3-0 decision, noted that even if Jackson was displeased or fearful at seeing McCloud, the jury was correct to reject Jackson's self-defense claim.

"Jackson fired eight shots, at least six of which struck McCloud's car, and continued firing at McCloud even after he began to drive away. In other words, Jackson continued firing long after any threat posed by McCloud disappeared," the court said.

"There is sufficient evidence Jackson had the requisite mens rea (intent) to commit murder and was not acting in self-defense."
VALPARAISO  As Stephen Meyer wraps 35 years this week with the Porter County Adult Probation Department, including just more than six years at the helm, he said his guiding philosophy has been simple.

"If the person on (the) other side of your desk thinks you care about them, you can make a difference in their lives," he said.

Meyer said he has taken more of a social work approach to the job as compared to law enforcement.

This belief that he could make a difference has helped fuel him over the course of so many years in a job that can be a real struggle at times, he said. It has also left him satisfied enough to know when to call it quits and retire.

"I think people can stick around in government jobs too long," he said. "It's a privilege, not a right, to be in these positions."

Porter Superior Court Judge Roger Bradford, who along with the county's other judges will name a new chief probation officer, said Meyer's retirement is a big loss.

"We're losing a lot of experience and quality," he said.

Bradford's own 37 years with county government has tracked right alongside Meyer's time with the probation office.

Meyer said he hired in as a probation officer in 1982 after earning a history major in college and noticing an advertisement in the newspaper. He had intended to pursue a career as an attorney in the footsteps of his late father, Al Meyer, who had served as dean of the Valparaiso University School of Law.

"I had no clue what probation did," he said.

Meyer quickly found out and has never looked back with regret. He and the other probation officers in the county are fortunate, he said, in that community correction efforts are handled by the nonprofit Porter County PACT.

"Steve will be missed by those of us who work closely with him and by the community he served," said PACT Director Tammy O'Neill.

"Throughout his time with the probation department, Steve participated in, and advocated for, practices that promote positive change in participants, the criminal justice system and the larger community," she said.

Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary Harper also lauded Meyer's efforts.

"Steve is highly knowledgeable about the technical aspects of probation and how the use of probation, when appropriate, fits into the overall justice system," she said.

Meyer said a key element is recognizing that the 1,500 offenders on formal probation and the same number on unsupervised probation are not all the same and that programs need to be tailored to meet those individual needs.

"If you can get people to change the way they think, you can get them to change the way they act," he said.

The local efforts have paid off, Meyer said. Porter County sent 66 people to the Indiana Department of Correction last year, he said, which is impressive considering it's the ninth largest county and yet 39 other counties across the state sent more offenders to prison.

"We've always been at the forefront of alternative sentencing programs in this county," he said.

Porter County Prosecutor Brian Gensel lauded Meyer's contribution to the local criminal justice team.

"In the 29 years I have worked with Steve, he has unwaveringly exhibited integrity, hard work, a strong moral compass and compassion," Gensel said. "He always viewed being a probation officer as a calling, not merely a job. He has served the citizens of Porter County well and will be missed by his many friends in county government."
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, June 19

By Demir Azizov  Trend:

Uzbekistans President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has sent a message to Portugals President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in connection with the forest fires that had infested the countrys central part, resulting in numerous casualties and destruction.

Mirziyoyev offered his sincere condolences and requested the Portuguese president to convey his words of sympathy and support to the entire Portuguese people, as well as to the families and friends of the victims and those who suffered.

As a result of wildfires in the central region of Portugal, 61 people were killed and more than 60 became injured, according to local authorities.
SCHERERVILLE  Construction of a new Circle K gas station with a convenience store and car wash at the northeast corner of U.S. 30 and Austin Avenue signals a new wave of commercial development along one of the areas busiest highways.

This is changing the whole look of that corner, Town Manager Robert Volkmann said. It's the site of the long-shuttered Alaskan Pipeline restaurant/bar and an adjacent day care center.

Construction will close the intersection to all but local traffic from 4 a.m. Wednesday to rush hour to accommodate installation of a sewer line, Volkmann said.

The $2.8 million Circle K project is being built directly across U.S. 30 from a rival Speedway. Targeted for opening in August, the Circle K includes a 4,600-square-foot building with brick and stone facade to house the convenience store that will be open 24 hours a day. Ten fueling stations and a single-lane car wash will be located east of the main building.

The car wash will close at 10 p.m. to accommodate homes to the north, Volkman said. "We dont want them disturbed by a 24-hour car wash."

In fact, the hours of the car wash came under scrutiny during a Plan Commission public hearing last October. At that hearing, Robert Wellert, of Wellert Corp., went through step-by-step plans for the petitioner, Macs Convenience Stores LLC, doing business as Circle K stores. The project was first introduced to the Plan Commission in February 2016.

Driveways will be located on Austin Avenue and U.S. 30, and a sidewalk will be constructed on Austin, Volkmann said.

Although Plan Commission members initially asked for a sidewalk along U.S. 30, Volkmann said the Indiana Department of Transportation opposed a walkway on the highway.

The Circle K construction plans also call for extensive landscaping and a vinyl fence to separate the development from nearby residences.

Founded in 1951 in El Paso, Texas, Circle K is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, and has more than 8,000 international locations. Other Circle K fuel stations in the Region are located in Dyer, Hammond and Highland.

Only one structure now remains in that U.S. 30 commercial corridor district.

Someone bought the house to the east of the Circle K and plans to demolish it, Volkmann said.

Although no plans are available about what might be built there, it will be all commercial development now, the town manager said.
EAST CHICAGO  The City Council is entertaining a Welcoming City ordinance to send a message regarding immigrants and public safety.

"This welcoming ordinance is an ordinance protecting all immigrants in the city of East Chicago," said Councilwoman Christine Vasquez, D-4th, who co-sponsored the ordinance with Councilman Robert Garcia, D-5th.

Attorney Alfredo Estrada addressed the issue recently and said a similar ordinance has already been adopted by the city of Gary.

He called the welcoming ordinance part of a nationwide movement "in a response to the new administration's rhetoric and stigma against immigrants either undocumented and documented."

Estrada said adopting the ordinance would acknowledge the city's commitment to immigrants and the benefits they bring to the city.

"It's also acknowledgement of the 4th and 10th amendments," Estrada said, "the 10th Amendment being it's illegal to commandeer local resources to effectuate federal law."

Estrada said the ordinance would prohibit a city agent from coercing or threatening an immigrant based upon legal status and would prevent the city from participating in any program that registers people based upon race, religion or ethnicity.

He assured the council the ordinance would not make East Chicago a "sanctuary city."

"Any rhetoric about withholding of federal funds because this will make you a sanctuary city is absolutely untrue," Estrada said.

The proposed ordinance states that part of its intent is to help ensure public safety by enabling immigrants to report crimes.

The council voted 7-0 to adopt the ordinance on second reading and likely will consider it on final reading at its June 26 meeting.

Garcia said exploration of the ordinance was not spurred by any event in East Chicago but rather by incidents in which U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has rounded up people around the country.
Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer called Sunday on the Drug Enforcement Agency for help fighting the rise of opioid use and drug overdoses in the city.

He asked the agency to deploy one of four new special heroin enforcement teams to the state.

"They're SWAT teams, they're well-trained, they're special agents, and they'll work with our local police forces in New York, Long Island, and the suburbs to stop the heroin and the fentanyl from coming in."

Schumer said he has allocated about $12.5 million in the 2017 budget to help the agency form these teams, but the proposal could still take several weeks to be approved.

Each team would consist of more than 40 members dedicated to fighting heroin trafficking, and they would be sent to areas designated by the Drug Enforcement Agency.

The city is considered a major distribution hub of heroin, which some opioids mimic.

Health officials said there were more than 750 overdose deaths involving heroin last year.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, June 19

By Demir Azizov  Trend:

An Uzbek delegation headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ulugbek Rozukulov will on June 20 arrive in Dushanbe to participate in the Uzbek-Tajik talks, said the press service of the Uzbek Foreign Ministry.

During the two-day visit, it is planned to mull practical issues of expanding cooperation in trade, economic, investment and other spheres, reads the message.
Construction on the last phase of Opelikas Frederick Road extension, a project to connect the city limits to downtown, is set to begin after the July Fourth holiday.

Frederick Road extension was intended to complete the three-phase project from the city limits to downtown, said Scott Parker, engineer for the city of Opelika. This extension will provide a seamless connector to Auburn Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard for a dual connector to the downtown area. Sidewalks and landscaping will be included in this project.

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller said the city has been working on completing this project for many years.

This last section of Frederick Road has been in our plans for many years, but the recent work and interest in the Carver-Jeter Plan moved it up on the priority list, Fuller said. It will greatly improve the flow of traffic between Tiger Town and historic downtown Opelika. Locals and visitors will be able to more easily move from one destination to the other.

Parker said crews from Robinson Paving Co., of Columbus, Georgia, will start with constructing a three-lane roadway with bicycle lanes and a sidewalk from the four-way intersection of Frederick Road and South Long Street, through the woods between Auburn Street and WE Morton Avenue to the intersection of Auburn Street, Martin Luther King Boulevard and Hurst Street.

The initial work of constructing the connector road through the woods will take at least three months, and there will be little to no disruption in traffic, Parker said. The contractor will need to construct a bridge/culvert over the Pepperell Creek tributary and bring in over 30,000 cubic yards of fill dirt to build the road.

The company was one of two bids the city received out of 10 vendors for the project. It met the citys low-bidder meeting specifications in the amount of $2,608,293.34. The contract is for 180 days.

Improving the flow of traffic

Pam Powers-Smith, president of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, said this work will be beneficial for the city.

 It will make traffic move more smoothly, which is a welcoming factor for anyone coming from the Tiger Town direction into downtown and that side of town, Powers-Smith said. Its always nice to keep moving people to where they need to go in a nice way. And with fewer turns, I think it will be an easier way for out-of-town visitors to find their way.

Carla Nelson, director of Opelika Main Street, said she hopes the extension will help bring more people to downtown Opelika.

 I hope that easier access will be a great benefit to the downtown businesses, Nelson said.

A gateway to downtown Opelika

Once the roadway is constructed, the intersection at Frederick Road and Auburn Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard will be converted to a roundabout, according to Parker.

The roundabout will be landscaped with full pedestrian facilities to provide an enticing gateway to downtown Opelika, Parker said. This will require a detour and traffic changes that will be published closer to the time they are needed.

Other than the presence of construction personnel and trucks, Parker said normal day-to-day traffic along the South Long and Auburn/MLK area will not be affected much.

After three months or so, detour routes and road closures will be put out for the public, Parker said.

He added that construction of the new roadway and intersection at Frederick Road and Auburn Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard is expected to take up to six months.
A 57-year-old Italian conman was recently arrested and charged with fraud and document forgery, after its was revealed that he had been posing as a member of the Montenegro Royal Family for years. His con was so elaborate that he had even managed to fool many real royals and celebrities.

The man, whose real identity has not yet been revealed, called himself His Imperial and Royal Highness Stefan Cernetic, Hereditary Prince of Montenegro, Serbia and Albania, and claimed to be a descendant of the Roman emperor Constantine, and the head of the Montenegrin royal family. He travelled all around Europe in a black Mercedes sporting Montenegrin flags and fake royal insignia, and stayed in luxury hotels, free of charge. To make his claims even more believable, Cernetic set up a website and several social media accounts, where he regularly posted photos of him alongside known royals, like Prince Albert of Monaco, and members of famous aristocratic families, like Savoy, Hapsburg and Hohenzollern.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

On his website, Prince Cernetic described himself as the head of the family that ruled Montenegro, Albania and Serbia from the XIV century to the second half of the XVIII century, and published family trees, photographs and illustrations of medals, seals, coats of arms and legal rulings. It all looked very impressive, but according to Italian police officers who had been investigating him for more than a year, it was all just nonsense.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

However, his elaborate con proved very effective for many years. He attended receptions organized by real royal families  just two weeks a go, he shared a table with Princess Irena of Greece and Denmark, in Athens  met with bishops at the Vatican, and attended lavish parties on yachts. Emilio Morani, mayor of the Italian town of Monopoli, even through a reception in his honour, a while back, after Cernetic promised to promote the town to businessmen in his country. But perhaps his greatest achievement was getting Pamela Anderson to kneel before him.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

In June 2015, Prince Stefan Cernetic awarded Anderson the title of Countess in a solemn ceremony that saw the Hollywood actress kneel before the Montenegrin prince to receive the honour. She was also named Great Lady of Montenegro and her children received the title of knights. Your Majesty, Im truly honoured and grateful for this recognition of the Imperial house of Montenegro and I am moved by your generosity, Pamela Anderson said.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

To convince people that he was royalty, His Imperial and Royal Highness Stefan Cernetic even had an Honorary Consul, who travelled around Europe as an ambassador of the Royal House of Montenegro. His name was Maurice Andreoli, and like Cernetic, he was a total fake. But you couldnt tell by looking at his formal attire and forged documents. He was a very believable character, and even got coverage in a major French newspaper, in April of this year, as the honorary consul of a slave prince.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

The truth is he is not from the Balkans, but from Trieste and his parents were Italian, Italian police said about Cernetic, after his arrest. But he was just amazingly good at playing the part. He was getting paid to attend public events and even had his own brand of wine.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

Indeed, everything was going great for the fake royal, but it all started crashing down last year. Cernetic had been staying in the luxurious Italian resort of Fasano, where he had set up an account with a hotel. At his instructions, they forwarded the bill to the embassy of Macedonia in Italy, but got this response  Do not send us the bills, we dont have a prince, and we certainly dont share one with Montenegro. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was alerted about the situation, and an investigation into the dealings of Stefan Cernetic began in August 2016.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

Police recently raided the homes of both the fake Montenegrin Prince and his ambassador, and found several fake titles and awards issued by the Royal House of Montenegro, diplomatic permits and even a royal seal. Both men were placed under arrest and now face several charges.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

Its unclear why the police took almost a year to arrest Stefan Cernetic, since all they had to do was contact Montenegrin authorities and confirm his royal status. Actually, it was even simpler than that  all they had to do was search his name on Google. I did, and found this little gem on a blog called Fake Titles and Orders. This article dates back to 2014, and provides clear evidence that the prince is nothing but a liar and a fake.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

Stefan Cernetic, if that even is his real name, is a liar and a fake. His claimed links to European Royalty are obscure and not to be relied upon. He is by no means a member of any Royal or Imperial House, let alone is he the head of one, the author of the blog post writes. He has no connections to the Royal Houses of Montenegro, Serbia, or Albania whatsoever. The titles and Orders he bestows upon those foolish enough to believe his arrant nonsense are just as bogus as his own. His companions seem to be just as deluded and this writer would advise anyone coming into contact with him or his supporters to avoid them like the plague.

Photo: Prince Stefan Cernetic/Facebook

I bet Pamela Anderson wishes she had read this before kneeling before a fake prince to receive a title that was apparently available to pretty much anyone who made a small contribution to the Royal House of Montenegro.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19



By Fatih Karimov  Trend:



Exports of Irans minerals and mineral industry products materialized by 152 percent during the first two months of current fiscal year (March 20-May 21), in terms of value.



Iran exported over $1.848 billion worth of minerals and mineral industry products during the mentioned period, meanwhile the planned figure was $1.214 billion, the countrys industry, mines and trade ministrys official SHATA news portal reported June 19.



Iran exported $161 million worth of minerals in the period including iron ore, worth $108 million (6 percent more year-on-year).



The value of the mineral industry products export also stood at $1.687 billion in the 2-month period.



The Islamic Republic exported 5,000 tons of ferro alloys worth $7 million, 1.085 million tons of steel ingot worth $342 million, 85,000 tons of copper concentrate worth $58 million, 8,000 tons of cathode copper worth $38 million and 35,000 tons of aluminium ingot worth $57 million.



The country also exported $57 million worth of zinc (26,000 tons) and $20 million worth of lead (10,000 tons) in the first two months of current fiscal year.



Exports of Irans minerals and mineral industry products increased by 17 percent to $7 billion during the last fiscal year (ended March 20, 2017).



The main exported goods were steel products(6.6 million tons, worth $2.699 billion), followed by copper, aluminium, cement, lead, zing, coal, iron, chromium, molybdenum, titanium, mica, nickel, decorative stones and antimony.


19/06/2017 - Despite a small aid budget, Iceland stands out among donors for its commitment to supporting the poorest countries and using its expertise in areas like renewable energy, land restoration and gender equality for aid programmes that advance global goals, according to a new OECD report.

The first DAC Peer Review of Iceland finds the country to be an active, flexible and transparent partner whose development efforts benefit from good aid management and a prioritisation of resources since the merger of its bilateral and multilateral aid organisations. Iceland should now focus on ensuring tangible results across all development programmes.

Iceland provided total aid of USD 50 million in 2016, up 11.6% in real terms from 2015 and equating to 0.25% of its gross national income (GNI). In 2015, the year studied in the review, 40.8% of Icelands aid went to least-developed countries  mostly to fragile states  a much higher share than the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) average of 28.4%. The top six recipients of Icelandic aid in 2015 were Malawi, Uganda, Mozambique, West Bank and Gaza Strip, Syria and Afghanistan.

Barely three years after joining the DAC, Iceland is already an active and influential member, capitalising on its domestic strengths to build solutions for least-developed countries that are in line with the global development goals, said DAC Chair Charlotte Petri Gornitzka. At the same time, Icelands aid budget has not caught up with the robust pace of its economic recovery and Iceland should now do more to meet its commitments.

Icelands aid budget is the smallest of the DACs 30 members, but its 0.25% aid to GNI ratio ranked in 19th place in 2016, just below Australia and New Zealand. Icelands aid to GNI ratio was 0.36% before the 2008-11 financial and banking crisis. It then dropped to an average of 0.22% over the following five years, prompting Iceland to push back the timing of its long-standing ambition to join donors who have reached a UN target of 0.7%.

As its economy continues to recover, Iceland should use its five-year budgetary framework to increase official development assistance (ODA) in real terms and revive its ambitions to work towards the 0.7% goal, the report says. This should be done in parallel with sharpening development priorities in the wake of the merging of the countrys bilateral aid agency into the foreign affairs ministry in early 2016 and a new government taking office in 2017.

Icelands humanitarian budget has jumped from USD 1.03 million in 2012 to USD 5.8 million in 2015, boosted by a USD 3.4 million allocation in 2015 for the Syria crisis. Spending on refugees within Iceland has also risen from 1% of Icelands gross ODA in 2013 to 12% in 2015. An additional allocation of USD 15 million (ISK 2 billion) for refugee costs in 2015-16 is helping to avoid refugee costs undermining aid predictability for recipient countries.

Iceland joined the DAC in 2013. Each DAC member is reviewed every five years in order to monitor its performance, hold it accountable for past commitments and recommend improvements. Reviews use input from officials in the country concerned and a partner country  Malawi for this Review  as well as civil society and the private sector. Read more on DAC Peer Reviews.

The DAC Peer Review of Iceland is available at: www.oecd.org/development/peer-reviews/oecd-development-co-operation-peer-reviews-iceland-2017-9789264274334-en.htm. An embeddable data visualisation of Icelands aid versus other donors is available at: www.compareyourcountry.org/oda.

For further information, or to speak to the reports author, journalists are invited to contact Catherine Bremer in the OECD Media Office (+33 1 45 24 97 00).
Carrie Fisher likely had traces of cocaine, heroin and other opiates in her system when she died, according to an autopsy report released Monday by the Los Angeles County coroner's office. But it's unclear what significance those drugs had in causing her death.

The fuller report follows a statement from the coroner's office Friday that Fisher died from sleep apnea and other factors, and that while she showed signs of taking multiple drugs, her official cause of death would be listed as undetermined.

Atherosclerotic heart disease was also noted in the autopsy report. Fisher, 60, "suffered what appeared to be a cardiac arrest on the airplane, accompanied by vomiting and with a history of sleep apnea," reads the report released Monday.

Evidence suggests Fisher may have been exposed to cocaine three days before she boarded an international flight on Dec. 23, 2016, according to the report. She went into cardiac arrest on the plane, and died four days later.

Fisher was also likely exposed to heroin, morphine, methadone and meperidine, as well as ecstasy (MDMA), but it's unclear when she may have taken those drugs, according to the coroner's report.

"Based on the available toxicology information, we cannot establish the significance of the multiple substances that were determined in Ms. Fisher's blood and tissue, with regard to her cause of death," reads the report.

Fisher had long been open about her struggles with mental illness and addiction, and became an advocate for removing stigmas. She told Diane Sawyer in 2000 that doctors diagnosed her with mania when she was in her mid-20s. "I thought they told me I was manic depressive to make me feel better about being a drug addict," Fisher said.

"I am mentally ill. I can say that," Fisher told Sawyer. "I am not ashamed of that. I survived that, I'm still surviving it, but bring it on."

After initial details about Fisher's cause of death came out Friday, Fisher's daughter Billie Lourd said her mother was "purposefully open in all of her work about the social stigmas surrounding these diseases."

"My mom battled drug addiction and mental illness her entire life. She ultimately died of it," Lourd said in a statement to People.

Lourd continued: "I know my mom, she'd want her death to encourage people to be open about their struggles. Seek help, fight for government funding for mental health programs. Shame and those social stigmas are the enemies of progress to solutions and ultimately a cure."
Have a question for Steve Jordon about the Oracle of Omaha? Submit your questions now, then join Steve at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday to discuss the latest news about Warren Buffett.

Some basics:

Q. Will Buffett join the chat? A. No, just Steve and participants.

Q. Will I learn what Buffett will buy and sell? A. No, he only tells Charlie Munger about his picks and rejects.

Q. Do I have to ask questions? A. No, you can just watch as the conversation unfolds. But your comments and questions keep the chat flowing.

Q. Can I send Buffett a message? A. You'd have better luck sending a letter to his office at 3555 Farnam St., Omaha, NE 68131.

Find more of The World-Herald's coverage of Warren Buffett here.
A 44-year-old man has died after being shot early Saturday on the front porch of a residence at 2530 Hartman Ave. in Omaha, authorities said.

At 12:55 a.m., Omaha police responded to a radio call of shots detected by ShotSpotter in the area. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, Virjillo Gurrero-Quiros, with an apparent gunshot wound.

He was transported in critical condition to the Nebraska Medical Center, where he later died.

Omaha Police Sgt. Antwone Finch said at the scene that the man was possibly shot from across the street, which was lined with parked cars.

Police also were investigating two other early morning shootings:

 At 2:48 a.m. a shooting was reported on the 42nd Street exit of Interstate 80. Police were called to the Hampton Inn at 1401 S. 72nd St., where Wesley Waltermire, 56, told officers that he was traveling east on I-80 and exited at 42nd when a red vehicle pulled alongside his and the driver yelled at him, pointed a handgun and fired one shot. Waltermires front passenger side window was shot out. He had a small mark on his arm but declined medical attention.

 At 3 a.m., officers were summoned to Immanuel Medical Center to check on a shooting victim. Shyleah Archie, 20, suffered a gunshot wound that was not life-threatening, police said. Archie said the incident occurred near Nathan Hale Middle School, about 60th and Whitmore Streets, but authorities said she was not cooperating with officers.

Anyone with information on the shootings is urged to contact the Omaha Police homicide unit at 444-5656 or Crime Stoppers at 444-STOP, omahacrimestoppers.org or on the P3 Tips mobile app.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

A high-ranking delegation from Italy's Eni is scheduled to visit Tehran June 20 to sign memorandums of understanding to study two Iranian oil and gas fields.

The Italian firm will sign MoUs with the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) to undertake studies for development of the Kish gas field and the third phase of the Darkhovin oil field, Tasnim news agency reported June 19.

Eni will submit its master development plan (MDP) to the NIOC within six months.

The Darkhovin oil field, located in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, was discovered in 1965. The in-place oil reserves of the field have been estimated at over five billion barrels.

The first two phases of the project are now operational, and the oil field is currently producing 160,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd). The first phase became operational in 2005, and the second phase came on stream in February 2011.

Darkhovins third phase is to produce 110,000 bpd of crude and 210 million cubic meters per day of gas.

The Kish gas field is expected to yield 28 million cubic meters per day of gas, to be used domestically, and 11,300 bpd of gas condensate set for export.
Two Waterloo volunteer firefighters suffered minor injuries when the firetruck they were riding in rolled on its top Sunday on the way to a fire in Bennington, said Waterloo Fire Chief Travis Harlow.

The rollover happened as the vehicle, holding nearly 3,000 gallons of water, was turning north onto 204th Street from West Maple Road about 5 p.m.

The water sloshing in the back may have helped give the truck the momentum to topple. Harlow said the firefighters had been using seat beats. Otherwise, their injuries might have been much worse.

The firefighters had been on their way to assist Bennington firefighters with a fire at the Douglas County landfill. After the crash, they were taken by ambulance to Creighton University Medical Center-Bergan Mercy.

Insurance will help cover cost of the damaged tanker, Marlow said. In the meantime, the Valley fire department will assist Waterloo with a water truck.
From the highway, Facebooks planned data center south of Papillion appears to be little more than 134 acres of dirt and construction trailers. Tractors move earth, cars come and go, a mound of dirt gradually grows.

But project leaders will assure you: Work is well underway on the social media giants 970,000-square-foot data center off Nebraska Highway 50 and Capehart Road.

A big chunk  40 percent  of the data centers infrastructure is underground, said Danny Horton, a Facebook construction co-manager who oversees the project with Stefan Kasan. Thats why theres not a lot to see.

Right now, workers are grading the site and installing underground utilities. By Thanksgiving, site leaders expect to see the campuss buildings take shape.

From there, it turns into a really fast and furious build, Horton said.

Crews have been at work on the site since the day in early April that Facebook leaders announced that theyd selected the site.

Itll be the companys sixth data center in the United States and its ninth worldwide. Facebook will pour at least $200 million, probably more, into the project, which is expected to come online in 2020.

On a recent morning, 65 workers were on site. About 90 percent are from Nebraska, said Lindsay Amos, a Facebook spokeswoman. As construction progresses, the labor force will swell to an estimated 800 to 1,000 workers. That will mean 30 different crews at work on the data center, Horton said. Most of that labor will be local.

Facebook is announcing today that it has awarded contracts to six subcontractors from Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri. Using local labor is a priority, Horton said.

The Papillion complex, from a birds-eye view, will resemble the letter H, with two 450,000-square-foot data center buildings connected by a 70,000-square foot administrative building in the middle.

The goal is to build both larger buildings at the same time, which hasnt been done at any other Facebook data center before, Amos said.

Itll be a brand new experience for us, Horton said.

Right now, project leaders are most concerned with getting the buildings up and sealed by Thanksgiving. That is so crews can do indoor electrical and mechanical work through the winter. If all goes well, workers will test the heating and cooling systems, air supply and electrical components in the spring. Then portions of the site will start to come online.

The project has lost 30 calendar days due to rain, which makes meeting the November deadline more of a challenge, Horton said.

Thanks to that rain, a few corn stalks have popped up atop a mound of dirt. The mound has grown into a sizable hill near the middle of the site because crews havent been able to move it.

Usually, the laborers put in six-day workweeks, with two-day weekends every three weeks, Horton said. But in response to the weather delays, workers are going longer without getting those two-day weekends.

Weve had a pretty rough spring, he said.

A few hours to the east, the Facebook data center in Altoona, Iowa, is expanding, so the two construction sites are battling in a friendly competition, Horton said.

In Papillion, Facebook has committed to three buildings at the moment, but the company is always evaluating the need for expansion, Amos said. Altoona is in the process of adding a fourth building to its 400-acre site.

A 140-acre site across Highway 50 from the construction area could house an expansion, according to plans submitted to the City of Papillion. If so, a tunnel under the highway would connect the campuses.

Even as is, the Papillion project is a massive undertaking for Facebook, project leaders said.

This is one of our biggest data center sites, Amos said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19



By Fatih Karimov  Trend:



All the missiles targeting the terrorist positions have hit the intended targets in Syrias Deir ez-Zor, Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, said.



We could simultaneously monitor the missiles hitting targets through drones flying over the Deir ez-Zor, Hajizadeh said, Tasnim news agency reported June 19.



He added that the missiles were launched from Iran and passed through Iraqs territory before hitting the targets in Syria.



He further said that the IRGC targeted command centers as well as centers of preparing suicide cars by mid-range missiles.



Meanwhile Brigadier General Ramadan Sharif, the IRGC spokesman said that six mid-range ballistic missiles targeted positions within 650 to 700 kilometres in Deir ez-Zor.



Sharif said that a number of the launched missiles were the Zolfaqar missiles, capable of hitting the spot targets accurately.



He added that Iran coordinated the attack with the Syrian government prior to launching missiles.



The IRGC announced on June 18 that the medium-range ground-to-ground missiles were launched from Irans western provinces of Kermanshah and Kordestan in response to the recent IS (ISIL, ISIS)-claimed terror attacks in Tehran, which killed 18 people and injured 50 more.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19



By Fatih Karimov  Trend:



Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the Islamic Republic's missile capability helps the international fight against terrorism.



Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense and advances common global fight to eradicate ISIS (ISIL aka Islamic State) terrorist group and extremist terror, Zarif wrote on his twitter account June 19.



The top Iranian diplomats statement comes after the IRGC targeted ISIS positions in Syrias Deir ez-Zor on June 18 in response to the groups recent terror attacks in Tehran, which killed 18 people and injured 50 more.



All of the six mid-range ballistic missiles targeting the terrorist positions have hit the intended targets, according to the IRGC.



The missiles were launched from Irans western provinces of Kermanshah and Kordestan and passed through Iraqs territory before hitting the targets in Syria.



The IRGC coordinated the attack with the Syrian government prior to launching missiles.
Tehran, Iran, June 19

By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend:

Irans missile attack on the Islamic State (IS, ISIS, ISIL, Daesh) was a must and a demand of the Iranian public, former MP Abolfazl Shakuri says.

It was necessary that Iran gave such response to the IS after their recent terror attacks in Tehran. The people expected such response from Iran, Shakuri told Trend June 19.

The former MP emphasized that the missile attack is also justifiable in terms of international norms.

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) fired six medium-range missiles which pounded IS command headquarters as well as arms and ammunition centers June 18 night, the IRGC announced, referring to the attacks as successful.

Amir Ali Hajizadeh, commander of the IRGC's Aerospace Force, said the missiles were fired from the Iranian provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan and flew over Iraq before landing in Syria.

The IRGC said the attack, the first of its kind in Iran, was in response to an IS-claimed terrorist operation which claimed the lives of 18 Iranians in Tehran earlier this month.
Tehran, Iran, June 19

By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend:

After Iranian missile attacks on the Islamic State (IS, ISIS, ISIL, Daesh), the terrorist group is now rolling downhill, Iranian MP Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh told Trend June 19.

The recent IRGC attack on IS signifies a strategic alteration in regional developments at a time when 16 years have passed with the US and West keeping silent over the situation, Falahatpisheh said.

Iran has been the sole reason for IS defeats so far only by providing military consultation (to the Syrian government against IS). But now that Iran is there operationally, the IS is on steep downhill ground.

He noted that the recent attack has three messages. One message is for IS, telling it that it will met a harsh response if it tries to harass Iran.

The second message concerns Israel and Saudi Arabia which cherish the thought of destabilizing Iran. The attack proved that Iran will not let go unanswered any move by a regional rival.

The third message, the MP said, is for the United States, which has equipped many regional countries.

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) fired six medium-range missiles which pounded IS command headquarters as well as arms and ammunition centers June 18 night, the IRGC announced, referring to the attacks as successful.

Amir Ali Hajizadeh, commander of the IRGC's Aerospace Force, said the missiles were fired from the Iranian provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan and flew over Iraq before landing in Syria.

The IRGC said the attack, the first of its kind in Iran, was in response to a terrorist operation which claimed the lives of 18 Iranians in Tehran earlier this month.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Fatih Karimov  Trend:

The head of the Ansar al-Furqan militant group has been killed during an operation by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) in Irans southeastern Sistan and Baluchestan Province.

Jalil Qanbar Zehi was killed in an operation by Qods Headquarters of the IRGC Ground Force in Qasr-e Qand Mountains, the IRGC said June 19.

Earlier on June 16, IRGC announced that it prevented a possible terror attack, revealing a terrorist group in the countrys Sistan and Baluchestan Province.

The report said some of the terrorists were killed, some were injured, and the rest managed to escape.

Reportedly, armed clashes broke out June 15 when Iranian security forces ambushed Ansar Al-Furqan, a Baluchi pro-Sunni militant group operating in Irans Sistan and Baluchestan Province.

According to the reports, the security forces seized a big amount of explosives and several suicide vests following the clashes, in which a number of militants were killed and wounded.
Iranian foreign ministry summoned Swiss charge daffaires in Tehran to convey the Islamic Republic's strong protest to the US government over the interfering remarks of US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, IRNA reported.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said that following the uncalculated and meddling statements by the US secretary of state, Swiss charge daffaires was summoned in the absence of the ambassador by the ministrys director general for US affairs to voice Irans protest to Tillerson's anti-Iran remarks in the countrys House of Representatives.

The Embassy of Switzerland serves as the protecting power of US interests in Iran.

Foreign Ministrys director general for US affairs described the statements by the US secretary of state as interfering in Irans internal affairs and severely condemned them, Qasemi said.

Keshavarzzadeh dismissed the remarks as against the provisions of the international law and the US governments international commitments, including UN Charter as well as its bilateral deals with Iran, saying that the US government should stand accountable to such remarks.

Swiss charge daffaires said that he will pass on Irans message to the US government at the earliest and communicate the results to the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Turkey plays an important role and enjoys authority in the Islamic world, and using this, Ankara intends to resolve the Qatar crisis, head of the Turkish Media Association Ekrem Kiziltas told Trend.

The accusations of terrorism against Qatar are groundless, according to him. Kiziltas believes the main cause of the Qatar crisis is Dohas independent policy in the region.

It is because of this independent policy, the Arab states want to, in some way, teach a lesson to Qatar, he said.

Kiziltas noted that despite all the efforts of Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE, the people of these countries do not support the policy of isolation of Qatar.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu earlier met with heads and ambassadors of a number of Arab states for resolving the Qatar crisis.

Touching upon this, Kiziltas said Turkey by its mediation diplomacy, wants to convey to these countries that the policy of isolation of Qatar can at any time be used against them by interested forces.

Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UAE announced about breaking their diplomatic relations with Qatar June 5, accusing Doha of supporting terrorist organizations and destabilizing the situation in the Middle East.

Later, a number of other countries also announced about severing diplomatic relations with Qatar.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Celal Kilicdaroglu, the brother of Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Turkish opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP), went on a hunger strike, the countrys media reported June 19.

It is noted that Celal Kilicdaroglu did it in protest against his brothers support for the Gulen movement.

Fethullah Gulen, living in the US, is accused of being involved in the military coup attempt in Turkey July 15, 2016.

On July 15, 2016 Turkish authorities said a military coup attempt took place in the country as a group of servicemen announced about transition of power to them. However, the rebelling servicemen started to surrender July 16 and Turkish authorities said the coup attempt failed.

The death toll as a result of the military coup attempt was over 200 people.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Iowa U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley takes Congress oversight role seriously. He knows that the executive branch, regardless of party, needs a watchful eye.

Recently, Grassley exposed longer wait times to see doctors at the Veterans Administration than the VA had relayed to Congress.

The VA provided data in February that no veterans at Iowas two VA hospitals waited longer than 90 days for a doctors appointment.

But information from a whistleblower, which the VA later confirmed, showed a different, troubling reality. Some 771 veterans had waited 91 or more days for a doctors appointment at the Iowa City VA hospital  including 232 who had waited longer than a year. The whistleblowers information for the VA hospital in Des Moines showed that hundreds of veterans had waited longer than 90 days.

Grassley accused the VA of misleading Congress to avoid embarrassment or exposure. For government agencies, a public flogging is often the fastest route to needed improvement.

Persistent questioning of federal agencies helps Congress push for fixes that require pressure and/or funding. Members of Congress are uniquely positioned to demand timely, accurate updates because they control the federal purse strings.

In todays more polarized Congress, Grassley is a bit of a throwback. When it comes to congressional oversight, the Iowa Republican tries to hold all administrations accountable, regardless of party.

As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, he helped give teeth to congressional probes into the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Fast and Furious firearms enforcement fiasco during the Obama administration. He lambasted the FBI for not cooperating fully with federal watchdog attempts to investigate the gunrunning scheme.

Earlier this month, he took a stand against a Trump administration legal opinion that says federal agencies no longer need to respond to requests for information from individual members of Congress but only from committee chairs or members representing a committee or subcommittee, which currently would shut out many Democrats.

Grassley rejected that policy, saying there was no legal or constitutional basis for it.

Last week, he used his leverage to demand answers to at least 15 letters seeking information from the Justice Department, including some that reach back into the previous administration. Grassley pledged not to advance the nomination of an assistant attorney general until he gets answers.

Republicans and Democrats, as he expressed, have a shared interest in good governance.

Grassley is perfectly capable of playing partisan games: Democrats hold him responsible for bottling up President Barack Obamas nomination of Judge Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court.

But the longtime Iowa senator is a strong defender of the watchdog role of Congress.

Shutting down oversight requests doesnt drain the swamp, Grassley wrote in a June 7 letter to President Donald Trump. It floods the swamp.

Any administration serious about changing Washington should embrace and encourage congressional oversight, not constrain it.

Grassley has the right idea.
Read Cabinet secretary's assurance here

Shiv Gopal Mishra met with the Cabinet secretary and expressed his anguish and delay over the implementation of the pay panel's recommendations. He said that the central government employees were feeling let down and dejected after being made to wait for over 1 year. The Cabinet secretary said that the matter was on track and will be take up at the next Cabinet meeting.

Cabinet meet postponed

Normally, Union Cabinet meets on every Wednesday, but this time 21st June, 2017 being "Yoga Day", this may defer for one or two days, so according to the assurance given by the Cabinet Secretary, we hope that the matter of the allowances would be settled within this month, Mishra also said.

NPS report

Mishra said, "We have also come to know from the reliable sources that the Committee on National Pension System(NPS) has also submitted its report and some serious discussion is on for its implementation."

Very Good benchmark

The Cabinet Secretary also assured that he has discussed the issue of "Very Good" benchmark with the CRB as well as Secretary(DoP&T), where he has advised them that the benchmark should be the same as prevalent in the case of promotion; the same should be for MACP also, Mishra further informed.
After ousted from Congress, Prashant Kishor to advise YSR Congress

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

New Delhi, June 19: Of late, political strategist Prashant Kishor is experiencing bad luck. After failing to revive the Congress' fate, as the grand old party performed badly in the five assembly elections held a few months ago, reports say Kishor has been removed from the Congress.

In the five assembly polls, the Congress only managed to win Punjab and fared very poorly in Uttar Pradesh and Uttrakhand.

Reports add that Kishor has been roped in by Jagan Reddy's YSR Congress to help the party for the upcoming 2019 Lok Sabha polls in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

"Jagan is talking to Kishor and so he is looking for Telugu-speaking recruits for his team," says a report in Financial Times. Kishor was mighty upset after the Congress dumped him in spite of helping the party to win Punjab and gain seats in Goa.

The 40-year-old political strategist is mostly known for leading the campaign of the Bharatiya Janata Party during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls which helped Prime Minister Narendra Modi to win handsomely.

After being sidelined by the BJP, Kishor switched loyalty and drew the successful campaign map for Chief Minister Nitish Kumar which helped the Janata Dal United to come to power in Bihar for three consecutive times.

Now, we have to see whether Kishor's ideas would help the YSR Congress in the upcoming elections.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 9:04 [IST]
Amit Shah to chair two-day 'Chintan Shivir of Home Ministers'; Mamata to skip the meet

Amid spiralling violence in Darjeeling Mamata leaves for the Netherlands to attend UN event

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday left for the Netherlands to participate in the Public Service Day of United Nations on June 22 at Hague as the situation remains grim in Darjeeling over the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha's demand for a separate state.

She is the first Chief Minister of India to address on the occasion.

Before she reached the airport, she appealed to people in the northern West Bengal hills to maintain peace instead of "playing with fire" amid the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM)-called indefinite shutdown.

"I would like to appeal to everyone in the mountains to kindly maintain peace. The solution can be reached through meetings and dialogues only when peace is maintained."

Violent protest won't be tolerated. My ministers are monitoring the situation: Mamata Banerjee,West Bengal CM #DarjeelingUnrest pic.twitter.com/rBWrjdpQ3o  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

She further said that we all work everywhere in the state. Torching properties is not the right thing to do. Instead of playing with fire, peace should be safeguarded.

(With agency inputs)

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 11:47 [IST]
Summons for Ramdev in lawsuit by doctors over misinformation on allopathy

Baba Ramdev wants to teach yoga in Pakistan; says not all Pakistanis are terrorists

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

Ahmedabad, June 19: Just days before the International Yoga Day, scheduled on June 21, yoga guru and entrepreneur Baba Ramdev said that he was interested to perform yoga in Pakistan.

On Saturday, Ramdev, who was in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, added that he got an invitation from the neighbouring country to conduct a yoga session. However, he is little scared to visit Pakistan because of the ongoing political instability in the country.

"Thoda wahan pe rajnaitik asthirta hai. Nahi toh main toh Pakistan bhi jana chahta hoon (There is a little political instability in Pakistan, otherwise I want to go to Pakistan also)," Ramdev said about teaching yoga in Pakistan.

"I have got an invitation from Pakistan to perform yoga there. Everyone in Pakistan is not a terrorist. People in the neighbouring country also want to learn yoga," he added.

Talking about Indo-Pakistan tension, Ramdev said that the common people of Pakistan were not bad, only a few persons were spreading terrorism.

"Pakistan occupied Kashmir should be merged with India now. It is high time for the Indian government to think upon it and do whatever it can do to merge the PoK with Kashmir," he said.

Ramdev also said that the Indian government should take adequate steps to eliminate 1993 Mumbai blast mastermind Dawood Ibrahim, Jaish-E-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar and Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed.

Talking about the benefits of yoga, Ramdev said yoga should not remain confined to June 21 only. "It should become a permanent thing in our life."

"Around 200 nations across the world are celebrating the International Yoga Day which is a big thing," he added.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 6:19 [IST]
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

Turkey wants to open a new page in relations with the EU, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan repeatedly spoke about this, the countrys Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said.

He made the remarks in Athens June 19 during a press conference with his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras.

Despite that Turkey and the EU signed an agreement on the abolition of visas, the EU hasnt fulfilled its promises, Yildirim noted.

Earlier, Turkish Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Omer Celik said that the country shouldnt refuse from joining the EU.

Turkey began its EU accession talks in 2005. In 1963, Turkey and the European Economic Community (the EU's former name) signed an association agreement.
Barrier or not, Language is definitely a border in India

India

oi-Prabhpreet

By Prabhpreet

Darjeeling has been brought to a standstill with violence and protest taking over normal life. This has led to an area known for its pleasant weather, tea, and tourism, witnessing scenes of police action, closed markets, stranded tourists, the death of protesters etc.

Though tensions between the people of the area and the Union and West Bengal state government are nothing new, the latest round of agitations began as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee decided to impose the compulsory learning of Bengali in schools across the state.

This has reignited the demand for separate statehood, of the hilly areas comprising of Darjeeling district and Kalimpong hills in the state, by the Nepali-speaking Gorkha ethnic group's led by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, which is governing the semi-autonomous Gorkhaland Territorial Administration.

And has again brought the focus on the issue of language playing a part in demands for a new state in the country. To the outside world, it might seem like a minor cause for a major step of like a division of a state, the history of India shows that it has to be treated with the seriousness especially given the principles of state reorganisation in the country so far.

Language, around the globe, is considered a barrier or tool when it comes to communication and also an important part of identity which makes a people who they are. In India, in addition to these, it is also the basis on which borders have been, and are, drawn between the states of India.

Divisions and formations of states based on language

Though just one country, the nature of it in terms of size and diversity that it contains, not only in physical feature and terrain but also culture and religions, give it a unique stature in the world. With such uniqueness also come the problem associated with it.

Now home to nearly 1.3 billion people, India currently has 29 states and seven Union Territories. Even if for many it may seem like this has always been the case, with only a state carved out of an old one from time to time being the norm, it is not.

A look into the young history of the country shows that it has not always been the case, and the current demand of the people of Darjeeling is not out of place. When the country gained independence in 1947, it was divided among areas governed directly by the British, and those by elected Indian representatives along with hundreds of Princely States.

The new country organised them initially into a total of 27 states based on the historical and political consideration rather than that of religion and culture. It was to be a temporary arrangement which was to be re-visited with the passing of time and the settling of the turbulent conditions prevalent during and soon after independence.

This was done so by appointment of committees soon after but the process was thrown into turmoil following the death of Potti Sreeramulu, whose death following a 56 day hunger strike for the demand of a new state for the Telegu speaking people, led to the formation of Andra state on October 1, 1953, which was carved out of the state of Madras. And similar agitations were soon seen around the country for states, based on linguistic basis.

And following the formation of other committees and deliberations, the process of reorganisation of states based on such a criteria was kick started. These led to more states such as Maharashtra and Gujarat being formed out of the Bombay province. Similar divisions of old states and formations of new that followed have finally led to the current combination of states and union territories.

Why language?

While language might be considered an emotional issue for the basis of such divisions and formations, in a country with 22 scheduled languages recognised in the constitution, with over a hundred spoken by a sizeable population, and more than a thousand in different areas, it is clearly more than just a topic of emotion.

The choice made by the British to not only use English as the official language but also to push it as part of education created a feeling, justifiably so, among the local population of being ignored. And this was one of the reasons why when the policy of state formations on linguistic basis was adopted it gained support from major part of the country.

Along with these other reasons for such a policy were also considered beneficial. These included the larger participation of local population as they would be able to communicate better with a common language, ease in governance, and the development of vernacular languages.

This is not to say that language has been the only reason for state formation. In addition to it, cultural affiliations and economic development, have also been deemed as necessary causes.

As can be seen in the case of Nagaland in the North-East where tribal affiliations were taken into account, while for the formation of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand it was felt that larger states such as Madhya Pradesh and Bihar that they were respectively carved out of, could not ensure their development as the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities would not be available to them.

The politics of language

For all the other reasons behind the use of language as criteria, the importance of it in the terms of identity it has for people, cannot and should not, ever be underestimated.

And it is one of the reasons why it continues to be seen as a major source of mobilisation by political parties around the country. As is witnessed in the case of the instant uproar that even a mention of a proposed attempt to impose Hindi in a capacity more than it currently is as an official language, or its imposition in education as a medium, are followed by protests around the country especially in the southern states.

Even if it may be seen as a genuine concern for the people of these states, and rightly so, the use of the issue by political parties can never be played down.

The fact is that it has also been used by regional parties to not only solidify their standing as upholders of the cause of the local population, as a tool of politics, and to hold national parties to account, cannot be missed.

While such protests of regional parties are usually peaceful in nature, similar actions in a state by a grouping against the state government can be the cause of major unrest along with violence.

This is exactly what has happened in the case of the latest protests in Darjeeling. Where a group is fighting against what they feel is an unjust imposition of a language on a group of people who do not consider it their own.

Though it may be a genuine grievance of the people of the area, that it may be used to serve other political purposes cannot be summarily dismissed. As reports of other reasons behind the GJM's latest protest along with the fact that the group is in a tie-up with the BJP, which is an opponent of Chief Minister Banerjee's Trinamool Congress party, point to.

And this is why language will, even though it continues to be seen as an issue of identity, can and will, also be used as a mask to serve other interests by groups such as political parties.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 15:08 [IST]
DigiLocker users can now store Ayushman Bharat health records: Here's how to do it

Money laundering: CBI team at Delhi Minister, Satyendra Jain's residence

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A CBI team has arrived at the residence of Delhi health minister Satyendra Jain in connection with an alleged money laundering case. The CBI is questioning the minister's wife.

The CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry against Satyendra Jain in April to inquire into allegations of money laundering against him. It is alleged that Jain was involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions private limited, Akinchand developers private limited and Managalyatan projects private limited.

The allegations against Jain also include purported money laundering to the tune of Rs 11.78 crore during 2010-12 through these companies and Indometal Impex pvt limited.

OneIndia News
CBSE Class 12 results 2017: Fate of 10,98,420 students hangs in balance, clarification soon

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

The CBSE Class 12 results 2017 were declared and it has been nothing but a mess. There has been an unprecedented number of students applying for re verification of their papers. It began with students complaining of low marks. After it was rectified, there was an incredible increase in the margin. The CBSE is likely to issue a clarification soon on the matter.

For instance one student scored 68 and after re-verification she scored 95. In another case the marks doubled from 42 to 90.

News 18 while quoting former CBSE chairman Ashok Ganguly said that the Board could have saved itself the embarrassment if the "traditional or old system was followed". "We have our old and traditional system called Outlier system to keep such embarrassment at bay," he said.

He also said that under the Outlier system, which had been in use for 20 years, if a student had scored high marks in four or five subjects but considerably less in one or two others, it meant there was something extraordinarily wrong, thus alerting those concerned. Similarly, if a student had low marks in four or five subjects but high marks in the remaining ones, it means those copies needed to be checked again.

This case clearly shows that the CBSE has not done justification in declaring the results. It clearly shows that the results were declared under pressure from the higher authorities.

Recently, many students across India who appeared for board examination under CBSE were seen disappointed with their marks. A TOI report stated that Sonali, a Delhi student, was horrified to learn, that she had scored a mere 68 in mathematics in her Class 12 board examination. Another student, Samiksha Sharma, who wanted admission in Delhi University College was shocked to know that she scored just 42 marks in mathematics.

After that the duo applied for verification (re-totalling of marks) at CBSE.

Most of the errors were reported in the Mathematics and Economic papers. For the first time ever the number of applications for verification of marks has been huge when compared to previous years. Out of the total candidates, 10, 98,420 candidates gave class 12 examination at 3,503 centres across the country.

This comes in the wake of a recent Delhi High Court observation that the CBSE should not have done away with its re-evaluation policy. You (CBSE) should not have done that. You too make mistakes," Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva said.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 7:35 [IST]
Failed motion in Council, mining case create rift between Congress and JD(S) in Karnataka

India

oi-Anusha

The camaraderie that Congress and JD(S) shared during the Gundlupet and Nanjangud bypoll has gone missing. After a gentleman's agreement during the bypolls that sparked speculations of a possible pre-poll alliance for 2018, both parties have grown apart. The Janthakal mining case that has returned to haunt H D Kumaraswamy, as well as Congress', failed no-confidence motion against the Karnataka Council chairman has turned ties bitter between the parties.

"Are we slaves of the Congress? Have we even said that we would work according to their whims? They have taken the JD(S) for granted," said H D Kumaraswamy, the state president of JD(S). The Congress moved a no-confidence motion against the Karnataka council chairman D H Shankaramurthy only to lose by a single vote. The Congress that was confident of JD(S) backing the motion was left embarrassed.

Soon after their motion failed to get approval by the House, the Congress accused the JD(S) of siding with 'a communal party'. D H Shankaramurthy is a BJP man and had admitted the motion despite the Congress not citing reasons for 'no-confidence'. Admitting for the first time that the Congress won the bypolls with the JD(S)' help, Kumaraswamy said that the party had no sense of gratitude. "The Congress seems to have forgotten that it won Gundlupet and Nanjangud bypolls because of the JD(S)' help. They thanked us then but are not accusing us of siding with communal factors," Kumaraswamy claimed.

Mining case is doing ties no good

With elections less than a year away, the Congress and JD(S) were expected to enter into an official pre-poll alliance or an unofficial post-poll agreement to stand united against the BJP. With two cases in connection with Janthakal mines company making a comeback, Kumaraswamy has accused Congress of harassing him. The former Chief Minister's aides believe that pressure is being built on Kumaraswamy through investigative agencies to play along with the Congress, an allegation that Siddaramaiah's party has rubbished.

With the BJP on a consolidation mode, the JD(S) and Congress were expected to form a Bihar-like alliance to counter the BJP's winning streak. With the JD(S) refusing to support the Congress in the council and Kumaraswamy accusing the Congress of a witchhunt, the possibility of a united fight against the BJP has taken a backseat.

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 16:24 [IST]
Gorkhaland demand enters 8th day; protest rallies continue in Darjeeling

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters on Monday took out a protest rally in Darjeeling over a separate state for Gorkhas-Gorkhaland.

#WestBengal: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha supporters hold a protest rally in Darjeeling, over #Gorkhaland demand pic.twitter.com/EH9jKTV6QQ  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

As of now no casualties reported on Monday. But the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha questioned the absence of Darjeeling BJP MP S S Ahluwalia at the time of crisis.

The GJM is an ally of the BJP and it was with the help of the GJM that the saffron party won the Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat twice in 2009 and 2014.

Darjeeling remained on the edge on Sunday as thousands of protesters assembled at the central Chowkbazar carrying the body of a GJM activist, who was killed during clashes with police and raised slogans demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland. The party has claimed that two of their supporters were shot dead by police in Singmari on Saturday. The police rejected the allegations of firing by its personnel, and said one person was killed during the clashes.

(With agency inputs)

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 13:57 [IST]
Hospital declares newborn baby dead; family realises baby is alive minutes before burial

India

ians-IANS

By Ians English

New Delhi, June 19: A new born baby was found alive after doctors at the Safdarjung Hospital declared it dead and handed it over to the family members in a polythene bag.

The incident came to light on Sunday morning when a 28-year-old woman, in her fifth month of pregnancy, underwent an emergency operation after she was brought to the hospital bleeding heavily.

"Around 6.15 am, we were told that the baby was born dead and accordingly they wrapped up the baby in a piece of cloth and polythene and handed it over to us. While taking the baby to the cremation ground, we detected a movement of the baby. On unwrapping the packet, we discovered that the baby was alive and moving his fingers and legs. Immediately, we rushed back to the hospital," a family member said.

According to family members, who were unwilling to be named, the surgery was performed around 5.45 am and half an hour later the medical staff told them that the baby was born dead."Around 6.15 am, we were told that the baby was born dead and accordingly they wrapped up the baby in a piece of cloth and polythene and handed it over to us," said a family member.

She said that "while the family members were taking the baby to the cremation ground, they detected movement of the baby. On unwrapping the packet, family members discovered that the baby was alive and moving his fingers and legs. Thereafter, immediately the family members rushed back to the Safdarjung Hospital's Emergency Department and consulted the doctors. The baby has been admitted and is being treated.'

The family members have accused the doctors of medical negligence. The medical authorities have said they will try to find out why this happened.Pratima Mittal, head of Safdarjung Hospital's Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department, said there is a medical norm which prevents doctors from reviving a pre-mature baby with a weight below 500gm, if found lifeless initially.

IANS

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 9:23 [IST]
Central team roped in as dengue cases in Bihar rise to over 5000

Bihar's Gopalganj by-poll to see a tough fight between BJP and RJD

I thank people of Bihar for their support, says Ram Nath Kovind

India

oi-Madhuri

Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind on Monday thanked people of Bihar after being selected as NDA's candidate for Presidential poll.

"My best wishes for prosperity and development of people of Bihar," Kovind said in an exclusive interaction with News Nation. He further thanked people of Bihar for supporting him. "I thank the people of Bihar for their support," he said.

Earlier, BJP President Amit Shah made the announcement of Kovind's name as NDA's candidate for Presidential poll after party's parliamentary board meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior party leaders.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 19:09 [IST]
'Letter directing land records to be linked to Aadhaar is fake,' says government

India

oi-Anusha

The letter attributed to Cabinet Secretariat on digitalisation of Land records and linking the same to Aadhaar numbers going viral has been deemed fake by the government.

Frank Noronha, the Principal Spokesperson of Government of India and Principal Director General of Press Information Bureau said that the letter was 'fake and mischievous'.

The letter attributed to Cabinet Secretariat on #Aadhaar linking to Land records,is completely fake & mischievous pic.twitter.com/qbk6TsyiII  Frank Noronha (@DG_PIB) June 19, 2017

He further added that a police complaint in this regard had been filed and the matter was being investigated. The letter on a watermark sheet has been attributed to having been signed by Undersecretary to the Government of India is going viral and says that the government is considering action under new Benami transaction act against those failing to link Aadhaar numbers with Land records.

The letter that is attributed to being a directive from the Under Secretary to the Government of India dated June 15 asks Chief Secretaries, Additional Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, Lt Governor of Delhi and Secretary of NITI Aayog to ensure digitalisation of all land records from 1950 and linking of the information to property owners' Aadhaar numbers.

The letter states that all documents of land records, mutation records, sale and purchase records from the year 1950 of any immovable property including agricultural land, houses needed to be done before August 14 this year. The letter, now deemed fake, also says that the government is mulling initiating action against those who fail to link their land records with Aadhar number. "The properties which are not linked shall be considered for appropriate action under the Benami Transaction (Prohibitions) Amended Act, 2016," the letter says. The letter also seeks suggestions from states on the matter.

OneIndia News
Baku, Azerbaijan, June 19

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

The UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash called on Turkey to pursue a balanced policy in the Qatar crisis, Arab media outlets reported.

He noted that the political isolation of Qatar can last for years.

Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UAE announced about breaking their diplomatic relations with Qatar June 5, accusing Doha of supporting terrorist organizations and destabilizing the situation in the Middle East. Later, a number of other countries also announced about severing diplomatic relations with Qatar.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has already met with heads and ambassadors of a number of Arab states for resolving the Qatar crisis.

Earlier, President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for a speedy resolution of the crisis.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Madras High Court seeks status report on R K Nagar cash for vote case

India

oi-Anusha

The Madras High Court on Monday sought a status report on the alleged R K Nagar bypoll cash for vote case. During the hearing of a petition over alleged instances of bribing voters in R K Nagar, the court sought a status report from the Election Commission of India, Government of Tamil Nadu as well as the police department.

The Election Commission on Monday told the court that a case had ben registered way back in April and investigations were underway. The court was told that a case was registered against unknown persons said to have been involved in the distribution of cash and involving in election malpractice. The FIR, Election Commission said, did not mention names including those of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy and TTV Dinakaran.

The Tamil Nadu police who have been made a party to the petition also told the court that investigation was underway in the case. Following raids on AIADMK (Amma) leader and Tamil Nadu minister Vijaya Bhaskar the income tax department had told the election commission that crores of rupees may have been distributed among the voters of R K Nagar to influence votes in the bypoll. Following the raids and consequent information from the Income Tax Department, the Election Commission of India had countermanded that bypolls in R K Nagar.

The Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to submit documents with regard to a case being taken up in the R K Nagar alleged cash for vote case.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 16:00 [IST]
At monsoon's fag end, why is there so much rain in Delhi-NCR now?

Monsoon mayhem: Rain creates havoc in NE, several dead, 4,000 displaced

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

Guwahati, June 19: In Assam, southwest monsoon rains created massive destruction in the last 24 hours. According to reports, five districts of Assam are reeling under floods. Because of floods around 70,000 people have been affected and around 4,000 displaced in the state.

In Sonitpur district, two people have gone missing after it received heavy rains. In Karimganj district, five members of a family were critically injured after rain-induced landslide damaged their house on Sunday, reported The Times of India.

Every year because of rains, Assam and other northeastern states suffer floods and landslides leaving lakhs displaced and hundreds dead.

In neighbouring Meghlaya, heavy rains triggered landslide in various districts including the East Khasi hills, South West Khasi Hills and South Garo Hills, to name a few.

Reports said that at least six people were killed, one went missing and nine others were injured after incessant rains triggered landslides across Meghalaya on Saturday.

A spokesperson at the Meghalaya Frontier Headquarters of the BSF in Shillong said, "Flood-like situation in certain places has caused huge damage to the India-Bangladesh Border Fence in many places. Some government property has also been damaged in the area of 123 Battalion BSF. The IBBF has been submerged in many low-lying areas in Meghalaya."

According to the Assam Disaster Management Authority, flood situation in several parts of the state is grim. Three new districts--Udalguri, Biswanath and Sonitpur-- have been affected by the floods since Saturday.

Government agencies said that relief camps have been set up in Udalguri and Sonitpur districts where 3,905 people are taking shelter.

Farmers are facing the brunt of rains as more than 1,600 hectares of agricultural land have been inundated in these five districts in Assam. The ASDMA said the Dhansiri and Jia Bhoroli rivers are flowing above the danger level mark.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 9:59 [IST]
Morbi Bridge is not the only Incident - Quality of Bridges, roads and Highways in BJPs government!

BJP announces list of candidates for Gujarat polls, Hardik Patel makes the cut

Three down in three days: Congress loses yet another MLA to BJP in Gujarat

Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja thanks PM Modi, Amit Shah for giving BJP ticket to his wife

Next President of India: Ram Nath Kovind arrives in Delhi

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

NDA's Presidential candidate Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind on Monday left for New Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi hours after he was declared as the NDA candidate for the post of president. Details of Kovind's scheduled engagements are not yet known.

Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar paid a courtesy visit to Kovind at the Raj Bhawan.

#WATCH: NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind waves to people outside Raj Bhawan in Patna as he leaves for Delhi to meet PM Modi pic.twitter.com/HJo3wMcsxB  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Meanwhile, BJP workers were in celebrations mood outside BJP office in Lucknow after RamNathKovind was declared NDA presidential candidate.

Celebrations outside BJP office in Lucknow after #RamNathKovind was declared NDA presidential candidate pic.twitter.com/DeGOM19IbY  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) June 19, 2017

Kovind is the Kanpur-born former lawyer is a Dalit leader, known for his organisational skills and is a loyal member of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

His official profile on the Bihar governor's website describes him as a crusader for "rights and cause of weaker sections of society specially Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/OBC/ minority..." from his student days.

(With agency inputs)
Next President of India: BJP picks Ram Nath Kovind

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Ram Nath Kovind will be the NDA's candidate for the next President of India. The BJP's parliamentary board which met earlier today decided that Kovind who is the Bihar Governor will be the candidate. This was announced by BJP's national president Amit Shah.

Electoral College: Here is how the next President of India will be elected

Kovind will file his nomination on June 23. The board meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A team of four had been formed to propose the name of the candidate. Sources tell OneIndia that it would be a BJP man or woman and they are not looking for a consensus candidate.

The meeting was attended by the BJP's national president, Amit Shah, Union Ministers Venkaiah Naidu, Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley and Nitin Gadkari, among others.

OneIndia News
Now a street in Kerala named "Gaza": Radicalisation in overdrive mode

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A street in Kerala has been named Gaza and this has caught the eye of the Intelligence Bureau. The street in the Thuruthi ward of the Kasargod municipality was named Gaza in an apparent reference to the disputed strip of land between Israel and Palestine.

It does not appear to be a normal exercise, an Intelligence Bureau official said. He further added that it looks an exercise to radicalise the youth. It does not make any sense that this street has been named Gaza. The street after it was renamed was inaugurated by Kasaragod district panchayat president AGC Basheer.

What has worried the agencies further is that the street is close to Padane where most of the youth who went missing belong. It may be recalled that 21 persons had joined the ISIS in Afghanistan.

The BJP in Kerala says that this is a deliberate attempt to change names of several places in Kasargod. The opposition leader in the Kasargod Municipality, P Ramesh said that several such attempts are being made. When it is brought up before the council, it will be rejected. There would be a debate on the matter and if not in public acceptance such proposals will be rejected, he also said.

IB officials have for years have been saying that there are major radicalisation drives in Kerala. It was from this state that reports of special prayers being held for both Ajmal Kasab and Osama Bin Laden were reported. Moreover there is a huge flow of Saudi funds into the state in an attempt to popularise the Wahhabi culture, IB officials also said.

OneIndia News
R K Nagar cash for votes: TN CM tells assembly that probe is underway

India

oi-Anusha

A day after an RTI inquiry revealed that the Election Commission of India ordered an FIR to be filed against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Edappadi Palanisamy told the assembly that a probe is underway.

The DMK raised the matter in the Tamil Nadu assembly on Monday where the Chief Minister claimed that a case had been taken up and an investigation was underway. Led by leader of opposition M K Stalin, the DMK staged a walkout from the assembly accusing Edappadi Palanisamy of failing to give a satisfactory answer on the matter. The Election Commission on Sunday revealed that it had ordered registration of FIR against the Chief Minister and others including TTV Dinakaran for alleged electoral malpractices during the R K bypolls.

The DMK raised the matter on Monday during the assembly session. Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy told the assembly that investigations were underway. The first accused in the case is TTV Dinakaran and Edappadi Palanisamy's name features second along with five other cabinet colleagues. While the DMK demanded to know the status of the case, Chief Minister Palanisamy maintained that it was under investigation. Following the CM's response, the DMK staged a walkout.

"We raised the R K Nagar voters bribing issue but the Chief Minister refused to provide satisfactory answers," M K Stalin said after walking out of the assembly. On Sunday, response to an RTI query revealed that the election commission had taken cognizance of AIADMK (Amma) leaders bribing voters of R K Nagar ahead of the bypoll and had directed the police to register a case against them. The bypoll slated for April 12 was countermanded following widescale bribery and election malpractice.

OneIndia News
Explained: Why did the ECI freeze the symbol of the Shiv Sena

Not just future of Sena but democracy at stake, says Uddhav

Shiv Sena attacks BJP over Kashmir, Bengal situation

India

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Mumbai, June 19: Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray met BJP President Amit Shah in Maharashtra , the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally, this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal.

"Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'.

Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but some people are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra.

"We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said.

"The BJP is standing solidly with anti-national elements, it is backing Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit.

The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers.

The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said.

About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said that it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI of Pakistan have already wrested control over the critical border state.

"BJP and Parivar people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said.

IANS
Truth about Darjeeling unrest: GJM started Gorkhaland stir to avoid getting exposed for corruption?

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

Kolkata, June 19: As the indefinite bandh in Darjeeling entered the eight day on Monday, several theories are doing the rounds about the reasons behind the sudden outburst of local people in the hill town.

While the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha started the agitation after the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal announced its decision to make Bengali compulsory for students in schools, which later spiraled into a violent protest over the renewed demand for Gorkhaland, the ruling Trinamool Congress party alleged that the Morcha leaders started the protest to hide their involvement in massive misappropriation of funds.

According to TMC leaders, the GJM which has been running the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration is involved in massive corruption.

"Since 2012, the GTA has received Rs 900 crore from the state government and Rs 600 crore from the central government. It has not submitted documents on how the money was spent. Recently, the Trinamool government has asked for a special audit of GTA funds. This has rattled the GJM, which believes its misdeeds are about to be exposed and its electoral future is in jeopardy," Derek O'Brien, leader of parliamentary party TMC (RS) and chief national spokesperson of the party, wrote in an article in NDTV.

"That is why it has gone back on a key clause in the Memorandum of Agreement on the GTA signed in 2011 by the Centre, the state government and the GJM. The clause reads: The GJM agrees to ensure that peace and normalcy will be maintained in the region. Today, the GJM is inciting violence," O'Brien alleged.

The agitation in Darjeeling took a violent turn when three GJM supporters were allegedly killed in a police firing on Saturday. On the same day, several policemen sustained severe injuries because of alleged attacks by protesters.

On Sunday, during the seventh day of the indefinite bandh called by the GJM, an uneasy calm prevailed in the hill town. The last rites of the three protesters, who died on Saturday, were performed on Sunday after a procession was carried out by the GJM members on the streets of Darjeeling.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday tweeted and asked all the stakeholders in Darjeeling to maintain peace. Singh added that the issue could be resolved through talks.

OneIndia News
UPSC Prelims 2017: Candidates questioned about schemes of Modi sarkar

India

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

From GST to benami transactions, candidates who took the UPSC Prelims 2017 had a tough set of questions to answer.

The aspirants were also asked questions related to National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), 'Vidyanjali Yojana' and 'Smart India Hackathon', all of which are the NDA government's initiatives. Lakhs of aspirants appeared in the preliminary examination held across the country. "What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing Goods and Services Tax?" reads a question.

The option for students to choose the correct answers included "it will enormously increase the row and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future". The second option was "It will drastically reduce the Current Account Deficit (CAD) of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserve". The third option given in the first paper of the test was "It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India".

The civil services examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) annually in three stages -- preliminary, main and interview -- to select candidates for the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS), among others. The preliminary exam consisting of two papers (Paper I and Paper II) of two hours duration each was held without any reported incidents of protests, official sources said.

The first paper began at 9:30 AM and second one started at 2:30 PM. The candidates were also asked questions with reference to Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988. With a view to providing effective regime to check the benami transactions, the 1988 Act was last year changed through the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amended Act, 2016.

The amended law empowers the specified authorities to provisionally attach benami properties which can eventually be confiscated. It has penal provisions for the defaulters.

There were questions on the NSQF, a competency-based framework that organises all qualifications according to a series of levels of knowledge, skills and aptitude to ultimately help an individual to get a job or start his own work, asked in the exam.

Paper I also had a question on the government's Smart India Hackathon, the world's biggest ever open innovation model to find digital solutions to the problems of state and union territories. Another question was on the Vidyanjali scheme, an initiative to enhance community and private sector involvement in government-run elementary schools across the country. Through this initiative, people from the Indian diaspora, retired teachers, former government officials and defence personnel, professionals and women who are home makers can volunteer at a school that requests for one.

"There were questions on GST and benami and since I know about these initiatives, I hope to have answered them correctly," said Ashish, who took the test.The UPSC did not make public the total number of candidates who applied for the test and those who actually sat for it. About 11.35 lakh candidates had applied for the last year's prelims exam. Of these, 4,59,659 had appeared in the test held on August 7, 2016.

As many as 15,452 candidates qualified for appearance in the written examination held in December last year. Of them, 2,961 candidates qualified for the personality test or interview conducted in March-May, this year.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 6:18 [IST]
Thousands gather for Yoda day rehearsals

Captured on drone cameras, the rehearsal for Yoga day held on Sunday was vibrant and colourful. The Mysuru district administration is taking all efforts to ensure that the city breaks Rajpath's 2015 record of 35,985 participants. The district administration took to Twitter to thank Mysureans for turning up in thousands for the rehearsals. The last one before the main event was held on Sunday at the Race Course road.

Close to 6000 school students expected to participate

Yoga camps are being held in schools across Mysuru and close to 6,000 students are expected to take part in Wednesday's mammoth event. On Monday schools children in Mysuru assembled at the palace to attempt a world record of forming the 'Longest Yoga Chain'. Dressed in whites and schools uniforms, children sat in huge circles outside the Mysuru palace.

Registration counter is still ticking

With barely a day to go, the number of registrations is expected to be higher. Currently, more than 51,000 people have registered themselves to take part in June 21's massive Yoga day event. Mysuru District Administration is organizing the International Day of Yoga in association with Department of Tourism, Ayush, Nehru Yuva Kendra, Mysuru Yoga Networking Organisation, NSS, Regional Transport Department, Mysuru Travels Association & Hotel Owners Association.

Boot camps ahead of mass yoga event

Ahead of the event, citizens have been asked to visit boot camps in four regions. Boot camps, some specially organised for women have been set up at Chamaraja, Narasimharaja, Krishnaraja, Jayachamaraja regions. Basic training is being given to participants days in advance. Each region has various venues where boot camps are being organised and each venue has been assigned a chief. Evening slot between 5.30 and 7 has been assigned only for women.

Mysuru set to beat Rajpath's record

With more than 50,000 registrations already, Mysuru is all set to beat Rajpath's record of 35,000 participants. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in a mass Yoga event in Uttar Pradesh's Ambedkar Maidan where close to 60,000 people are expected, Mysuru district administration officials are confident of creating a Guinness world record.

Picture Courtesy: @yogadaymysuru

OneIndia News
Turkey's full accession to the European Union is of "vital" importance for Europe's security, visiting Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Monday, Anadolu reported.

"Turkey's EU membership would not only benefit itself, but it is also of vital importance for the peace and security of Europe," Yildirim told reporters ahead of a meeting with Greek President Prokopis Pavlopoulos in Athens.

Yildirim said Turkey did not only stop a "serious" refugee influx into Europe, stemming from the unrest and ongoing fighting in the Middle East, but also contributed "significantly" to the fight against terrorism.

"Therefore, we would like the European Union to appreciate this, and handle its relations with Turkey accordingly," he added.

Greece supports Turkey's European course, Pavlopoulos said, stressing that "we have always believed that Turkey must find its way to Europe".

"In order for a state to belong to the European Family, it must fully respect international law as a whole and, of course, the European acquis," the Greek President added.

Speaking on bilateral relations, Pavlopoulos said "there are more things that unite us than divide us," to which Yildirim responded by saying that the two countries shared the same geography, and consequently, the same destiny.

"With that awareness in mind, I think there is a lot we can do in every regard on the basis of good neighborly relations and respect for sovereignty," the Turkish premier added.

Yildirim arrived in Athens on Monday to attend meetings with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, Pavlopoulos, and opposition leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis before departing for Komotini in northern Greece to attend an iftar, fast-breaking, dinner.
Imran Khan discharged from hospital, to resume long march from same point where he was shot

This cop from Pakistan became a millionaire overnight: Here is how

Balochistan: Two Pakistan Navy personnel killed

International

oi-Madhuri

Two Pakistan naval officers were killed and at least three others injured when their vehicle was attacked in the Jiwani area of Gwadar district on Monday, Pakistan media reported.

The officers were carrying Iftar items from Jiwani town when their vehicle came under attack from four gunmen in the Gwadar district.

The incident happeed when six naval officers were in the vehicle. Security was tightened after the incident and a search operation was launched in the area to apprehend those involved in the attack.

Meanwhile, Baluchistan Chief Minister Sanaullah Zehri condemned the incident and directed the police to submit a report about the terror incident.

OeIndia News (with inputs fom agencies)
In Iran, men and women are 'equal' only in torture

Iran launches missile attack on 'Takfiri terrorists' in Syria

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Tehran, June 19: Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps on Sonday targeted the "terrorists" command centers in Syria's Deir ez-Zor with its missiles. The attack was aimed to punish the "Takfiri terrorists" for their recent twin attacks in Iran's capital Tehran, the IRGC's Public Relations said in a statement

It said that the mid-range missiles of the IRGC were launched from the Iranian western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan provinces, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the reports, large number of terrorists have been killed in the attacks and a large amount of weapons and ammunition have been destroyed in the attack, the statement said.

The IRGC vowed to respond determinedly to any terrorist attack against the Islamic republic.

On June 7, the Islamic State (IS) militants carried out twin operations in the capital Tehran on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Rouhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 and injured dozens.

On Tuesday, commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) said that Saudi Arabia has been behind June 7 terrorist attacks in Tehran.

Iran media quoted Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari saying that

Iran has obtained accurate intelligence that Saudi Arabia supported the terrorists and asked them to carry out attacks in Iran.

IANS

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 12:44 [IST]
Mumbai terror attack mastermind Makki urges Pak journos to foster unrest in Kashmir

International

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

The mastermind of 2008 Mumbai attacks Abdul Rehman Makki on Monday issued a call for to foster unrest in Kashmir. He was addressing a press conference in Faisalabad in Pakistan.

Makki urged Pakistan's journalists to wield their power of pen and experience in the field and join the cause of Kashmir.

We urge journalists here to wield the power of pen & experience they have garnered in the field and join the cause of Kashmir: Abdul R Makki pic.twitter.com/JPk3z5g1JN  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

He still carries a bounty of $2 million on his head announced by US, was said to close former Taliban supreme commander Mullah Omar and al-Qaeda's Ayman al-Zawahiri. According to reports, Makki became a significant threat to the US after it realized that he was acting as a conduit between the Taliban and the LeT.

Makki has been given the charge of the head of Jamaat-ud-Dawah after the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed was put under the house arrest by Pakistan's Punjab government.

(With agency inputs)

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 12:31 [IST]
Trump not under investigation in Russian interference in US election, says lawyer

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Washington, June 19: President Donald Trump is not under investigation for obstruction of justice, despite he apparently acknowledged on Twitter posts, said Trump's personal attorney.

"The President is not under investigation by the special counsel," Jay Sekulow said in an interview on NBC's "Meet the Press".

Efe news reported, Sekulow as saying that the President has not been and is not under investigation for obstruction of justice, he added, referring to press reports saying that special counsel Robert Mueller is also investigating Trump.

The Washington Post, citing anonymous sources, reported on Thursday that Mueller, who is investigating possible Russian interference in the 2016 election and the contacts between Moscow and the Trump campaign team, had included in his probe the possibility that Trump could have attempted to obstruct justice.

After those reports, Trump himself had once again resorted to Twitter, where he posted an enigmatic message on Thursday in which he seemed to acknowledge that he was under investigation.

"I am being investigated for firing the FBI Director by the man who told me to fire the FBI Director! Witch Hunt," Trump tweeted, referring to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who in early May had written a memo for Trump recommending that former FBI chief James Comey be fired.

Sekulow, however, emphasized that Trump was referring to the "fake" story in The Washington Post and denied that the tweet was an admission by the President that is being investigated.

Trump appointed Mueller as special counsel after sacking Comey who had been heading the Russia probe into Moscow's alleged interference in the US presidential election.

IANS

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Story first published: Monday, June 19, 2017, 10:21 [IST]
Six killed in suspected jihadi attack at Mali capital

International

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

Six persons were killed in a suspected jihadi attack at a resort outside Mali's capital. The first victim was a French-Gabonese citizen. We are in the process of confirming the other's nationality," said security ministry spokesman Baba Cisse.

A luxury resort popular with Western expatriates outside Mali's capital Bamako came under attack by gunmen on Sunday, the Security Ministry said. Gunmen stormed Le Campement Kangaba in Dougourakoro, to the east of the capital Bamako, a resort foreign residents often visit for weekend breaks. There were no details of casualties but the attack was continuing on Sunday evening, Reuters reported.

"Security forces are in place. Campement Kangaba is blocked off and an operation is under way," Security Ministry spokesman Baba Cisse said by telephone. "The situation is under control."

Witness Boubacar Sangare was just outside the compound during the attack. "Westerners were fleeing the encampment while two plainclothes police exchanged fire with the assailants," he said.

"There were four national police vehicles and French soldiers in armoured vehicles on the scene." He added that a helicopter was circling overhead.

A spokesman for French forces in Mali declined to immediately comment. Security has gradually worsened across Mali since French forces pushed back allied Islamist and Tuareg rebel fighters in 2013 from swathes of the north they had occupied the previous year.

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The group linked the attack to the Egypt-Saudi maritime border demarcation agreement, which recognizes two Red Sea islands as being Saudi Arabian territory

The militant group Hasm has claimed responsibility for an attack on a police checkpoint in Maadi, North Cairo, late on Saturday in which a policeman was killed and four others injured.

In a statement published on Sunday on its official social media accounts and website, the militant group claimed the attack, linking it to an Egypt-Saudi maritime border demarcation agreement that places two Red Sea islands within Saudi Arabian territory.

The Hasm statement said the checkpoint attack was "retaliation" for the Egyptian state's "attack on protesters and citizens" who reject the "sale of the land", referring to the islands of Tiran and Sanafir.

On Wednesday, the Egyptian parliament approved the border demarcation agreement, which recognizes Tiran and Sanafir as Saudi sovereign territory. The deal is now awaiting the ratification of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi before being implemented.

Hasm has claimed a number of attacks against Egyptian security forces personnel, mostly stationed at checkpoints. Several public figures, such as former grand mufti Sheikh Ali Gomaa, have also been targetted.

Egyptian security bodies say that dozens of Hasm members have been arrested in the past few months. According to interior ministry officials, the group is linked to the Muslim Brotherhood organization. Both groups are designated as terrorist organizations in Egypt.

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Rumble 31 Oct 2022

A California teacher has been placed on leave while the school district investigates her behaviour shown in an online video. A..
Central Security Forces officer Yaseen Hatem was sentence on Monday in the retrial of the case, which dates back to 2015

The Cairo Criminal Court has sentenced a police officer to 10 years in prison for killing the activist Shamimaa El-Sabbagh in 2015.

The sentence was passed on Monday at the end of the retrial of the case, and the verdict can still be appealed in the country's highest appeal court.

El-Sabbagh, a 32-year-old mother was shot during a protest to mark the fourth anniversary of the 25 January revolution.



In June 2015, a Cairo court sentenced Central Security Forces officer Yaseen Hatem to 15 years in jail for "wounding that led to the death" of the mother of one, as well as "deliberately wounding" other protesters.

In 2016, the Court of Cassation overturned the sentence and ordered that Hatem be retried.

El-Sabbagh was reportedly killed after being hit by birdshot fired by the CSF officer.

The incident sparked a public outcry, pompting President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to vow to bring her killer to justice, bearing in mind that El-Sabbagh was protesting peacefully.

The initial court verdict against the officer was the toughest against a policeman for killing protesters since the 2011 uprising.

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Belfast Telegraph 02 Oct 2022

Leading Brexiteer Steve Baker has apologised to both Ireland and the EU for not always behaving in a way that would mean they..
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Related One suspect held in London mosque attack Egypt's foreign ministry and leading Islamic authority Al-Azhar condemned Monday's attack on worshippers standing outside a mosque in London, which left one dead and 10 others injured.

The ministry's statement warned of Islamophobia as a threat to peaceful co-existence, calling on the international community to stand firm against terrorism of all kinds.

"Egypt strongly denounces all acts of terrorism and violence that are racially, ethnically or religiously motivated," the statement read.

A man ploughed his vehicle into a crowd of worshippers outside a north London mosque in the early hours of Monday.

Police said the 48-year-old white man who drove the van has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Egypt's Al-Azhar, the highest seat of Sunni Muslim learning, condemned the attack as "sinful" and "racist," urging Western countries to take all necessary measures to combat Islamophobia.

"Al-Azhar affirms its total rejection of this terrorist, racist, sinful act, calling on Western countries to take all precautionary measures to curb the phenomenon of Islamophobia," the institution said in a statement.

Brtitish Prime Minister Theresa May said during a televised address that "like all terrorism, in whatever form, [the attack] shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country. We will not let this happen."

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Revolution Plus that used to be a highly reputable Real Estate firm has landed in trouble following some accusations by aggrieved customers that the company is full mega fraud, Thecitypulsenews gathers.

The main accusation against the company is on delayed allocation of landed properties to customers despite the fact that money has been paid to purchase the landed properties by the customers.

As if that was not enough, the customers decided to use the face of their popular celebrity ambassadors, Odunlade Adekola and Toyin Toyin Abraham in the call out.

According to a post by instagram blogger, Gistlover, some customers claim to have paid three years ago yet they have not been allocated their properties.

In the post, it was also revealed that the company keeps luring innocent customers to pay for properties in order to pay ambassadors of the company. It was also mentioned that the company no longer has properties to allocate.

Furthermore, some customers reportedly approached the company for a refund but they were denied except they are willing to forfeit 40% of what they paid to the company.

Read full post below HERE

Popular Real Estate Company, Revolution Plus In Mega Fraud

Jesus , my dm is so full, some that bough land two years ago, no allocation, nothing, to crown it all, this Tolu geh keeps insulting people, Toyin glutton, you need to do something ASAP on this Matter, people are in the dm crying, people trusted you and odun and gave their money to this revolution company, but you all are not saying anything , Tolu said she wants evidence , how many evidence I don send to her dm now, a lot of evidence which I will post now, some even bought land from them 2019 till now, nothing, and this Tolu thinks she can open mouth and insult her customers because they expressed their displeasure, wow, shey because Toyin don Dey call her godmother because of Atenu, abi godmother and goddaughter wan siwin po, Toyin them give you money you begin Dey shout godmother up and down, Fight for your fans , fans who paid these company because of you both, revolution plus don sell all the lands wey dem get finish yet they keep doing advert and luring innocent People to pay and their ambassadors so silent on this, Wow, I no go gree oooo, on God all these people must get their full refund, even some of them wey say they want refund, revolution play still talk say them go comot 40%, for what?? You delayed them for years, months, yet you still wan comot money, Tolu look here, tell your husband , tell him make him Dey hear, This people will get their complete refund, thats on period, some of them over 3years, no land no refund, how can you be so mean, to crown it all una go Dey abuse them ontop their money, Ogun go kee some people now, make una Dey see as this matter go unfold ooo, you think because you be CEO of revolution you can talk to people anyhow ontop their money, wait for me first, WE SAY NO TO SCAMMERS. I come in peace.
Ahmed Tantawi, from the 25-30 bloc, allegedly hurled insults at a visiting expert during a debate on Tiran and Sanafir islands, throwing the microphone to the floor

MP Ahmed Tantawi, who is affiliated with the opposition parliamentary coalition known as the 25-30 group, is to be referred to the ethics committee for alleged violations of parliament's code of conduct.

On Monday, parliament's press office said in a statement that Tantawi was accused of committing the violations last week while the constitutional and legislative affairs committee was debating an Egyptian-Saudi deal on maritime border demarcation.

The committee submitted a memorandum alleging that, on 13 June, Tantawi had interrupted Sayed El-Husseini, head of the Egyptian Geographical Society, as he was addressing the committee on the subject of the border agreement.

"Tantawi physically attacked El-Husseini, threw the microphone to the floor, before hurling insults at him," said the committee, arguing that "this is bad behavior and a violation of parliament's code of conduct."

The ethics committee will examine two memorandums prepared by parliament's legislative and constitutional affairs committee and El-Sayed El-Husseini, head of the Egyptian Geographical Society.

Parliament speaker Ali Abdel-Aal said during the debate on 13 June that Tantawi's behaviour was unacceptable and he might be stripped of his parliamentary membership.

In his memorandum, El-Husseini said that, as he was addressing the committee on the Egyptian-Saudi deal, he was surprised to find Tantawi trying to hit him.

"He also prevented me from using the microphone, throwing it to the floor and directing insults at me," said El-Husseini.

The statement said parliament has asked Tantawi to come to the speaker's office twice to testify on the above charges.

"But he refused to come to defend himself, and as a result we (parliament's internal bureau) decided that Tantawi should be referred to the ethics committee," said the office in a statement.

On 14 June, parliament approved the controversial deal on maritime border demarcation between Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

The deal, which identifies the two islands of Tiran and Sanafir as falling inside Saudi territorial waters, triggered protests in Egypt last week.

The 25-30 group accused parliament of rubberstamping the deal without adequate discussion and in spite of a judicial ruling by the administrative courts that declared the agreement null and void.

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The Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its decision to hold the convention on its planned date.

The national convention is scheduled to hold on February 26 and the APC has till February 5 to submit its notification.

According to a letter made available to Channels Television and titled Notice for the Conduct of National Convention and signed by the Chairman, Mai Mala Buni, and the National Secretary, John Akpanudoedehe, the CECPC notified the electoral body of its decision on February 2, 2022.

READ ALSO: 2023: Edwin Clark Asks North To Allow South Produce Next President

A stamp on the letter showed that the INEC had received it on February 3, 2022.

The letter, which was addressed to the Chairman of the electoral commission read Follow up to our letter referenced APC/NHDQ/INEC/19/021/40 dated 11 July 2021 on the Notice for the conduct of the national convention.

This is to inform the Commission that our great Party has scheduled to hold its National Convention on Saturday, 26th February 2022.

This serves as a formal notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 85 of the Electoral Act (2010) as amended.

Kindly arrange for your officials to monitor the exercise accordingly.

While hoping to receive your cooperation, please accept the assurances of our highest esteem, the statement read.
The minority leader of the Senate, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene in the impeachment of Kogi State Deputy Governor, Mr Simon Achuba by the House of Assembly.

Abaribe, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, urged Buhari to rise above party affiliations and intervene to ensure the countrys constitution was protected, if the authorities in Kogi state failed to do so, NAN reports.

He also advised judges in Kogi, particularly the Chief Justice to borrow a leaf from the Imo State experience and shun any invitation to swear-in a new deputy governor in whatever guise.

Abaribe declared as `reprehensible the deliberate denigration of the countrys constitution, for the Kogi State Assembly to go ahead to impeach Achuba.

He added that this was even when a panel set up by the State Chief Judge to investigate him returned a no-guilty verdict.

Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution as Amended is very emphatic in the circumstance that is to say that the State Assembly shall cease any further proceedings in the impeachment process.

Specifically, Section 188(8) states that Where the panel reports to the House of Assembly that the allegation has not been proved, no further proceedings shall be taken in respect of the matter.

So, where did the Kogi State Assembly members derive the power to move ahead with the process?

Has Nigeria not been reduced to this rudderless state with this disdainful attitude to our laws and democratic ethos? Abaribe queried.

The minority leader warned that with the direct affront on the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by the actions of the State Assembly, the very foundations of the country had been utterly shaken.

The 1999 Constitution as amended is the ground norm of the country and the Kogi Assembly has committed a heinous breach of this sacred document.

If their illegal action is sustained, then it strikes at the heart of democracy in Nigeria.

We must do the right thing and Nigeria must not be seen as a lawless country.

I call on institutions of democracy to urgently activate the right principles in the defence of our democracy.

Kogi Assembly should look beyond now and stop this illegality, he added.

Abaribe expressed concern on how the assembly acted swiftly and in the middle of the night to impeach Achuba less than 30 minutes on receiving the not-guilty report from the panel.
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Advertisement

Senegal reached a second consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Wednesday after goals from Abdou Diallo, Idrissa Gueye and Sadio Mane secured a 3-1 win over Burkina Faso.

Aliou Cisses side were denied a first AFCON title by Algeria back in 2019, but they will now have another chance against either Cameroon or Egypt on Sunday.

Senegal thought they had been awarded a penalty kick deep into first-half stoppage time, but the VAR came to Burkina Fasos rescue.

Referee Tessema Weyesa overturned his initial decision after replays showed Gueyes shot had hit Edmond Tapsobas stomach and not his hand.

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The Lions of Teranga deservedly broke the deadlock in the 70th minute, however.

That was when Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender Diallo spun in the goal area to fire a crisp strike past substitute goalkeeper Sofiane Ouedraogo.

And Senegal doubled their advantage six minutes later when Gueye slotted home from inside the penalty area after being teed up by Mane.

Ibrahim Toure pulled one back for Burkina Faso with an improvised finish with his knee in the 82nd minute.

Mane put the game to bed five minutes later with a sublime breakaway goal.

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Egypt's education ministry has announced new amendments to a law toughening penalties for cheating and other violations during nationwide school exams, following repeated incidents of online leaking of exam answers over the past year.

The new amendments, which were ratified by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi last week, are intended to combat all violations during exams and firmly control the examination process across Egyptian schools, according to a statement released by the ministry on Monday.

The new amendments punish with two to seven years in jail and a fine of EGP 100,000 to 200,000 anyone who "prints, publishes, broadcasts or promotes exam questions and answers by any means," the statement read.

The penalties are imposed whether the violation is made before or during the exams with the aim of "cheating and undermining the social order of examinations in or outside exam rooms."

Students who cheat, attempt to cheat or commit any violation stated in the law will be banned from all exams, according to Reda Hegazy, head of the public education sector, as quoted in the statement.

Students were previously punished only by being barred from the exam in which they were cheating or attempting to cheat.

The new sanctions will be imposed only on cases that occurred after El-Sisi's ratification of the law on 15 June, head of the ministry's legal affairs department Alaa Eid told Al-Ahram Arabic.

Last year, several thanaweya amaa exams -- Egypt's standardised high school final exams -- were leaked online, prompting officials to cancel, void or postpone some exams and to investigate possible leaks from within the education ministry.

Several alleged administrators of a number Facebook pages that leaked questions and answers were arrested at the time.

The leaks sparked public anger at the government's perceived inefficiency.

The results of the Thanaweya Amaa exams, taken in the final year of high school, determine students' college destinations and subject choices.

Around 500,000 students sit the tests every year.

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New Report: United States Cyber Security of Security Services Market 2017 United States Trends, Market Status and Forecasts to 2022

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Browse Cyber Security of Security Services Market report of 20 Table of Contents, 10 Companies and Spread across 115 pages available atThis study estimates the factors that are boosting the development of the United States Cyber Security of Security Services Market. On the basis of key principles segments such as end-users, application, product, technology, and region are surveyed comprehensively of the United States Cyber Security of Security Services Market. The thorough examination has been done in this report to bring about the share and position of United States Cyber Security of Security Services Market. In the report, the complete analysis of the growth revenue is offered.This market research report gives an in-depth idea about the United States Cyber Security of Security Services Market. It highlights the recent market scenario, growth in the past few years, and opportunities present for manufacturers in the future. In this research for the completion of both primary and secondary details, methods and tools are used. Also, investments instigated by organizations, government, non-government bodies, and institutions are projected in details for better understanding about the market.Get copy of this report:The research report also mentions the innovations, new developments, marketing strategies, branding techniques, and products of the key participants present in the United States Cyber Security of Security Services market. In this reports for the future. The reports offer the opportunities and restraint that may hit in the future for the market players. Through this report, consumers can easily get the notion for their growth of United States Cyber Security of Security Services products in the market.Table of Contents1 Industry Overview of2 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis3 Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis4 United States Overall Market Overview5 Cyber Security of Security Services Regional Market Analysis6 United States 2012-2017E Key Segment Market Analysis (by Type)7 United States 2012-2017E Key Segment Market Analysis (by Application)8 Major Manufacturers Analysis9 Development Trend of Analysis of Market10 Cyber Security of Security Services Marketing Model Analysis11 Consumers Analysis of Cyber Security of Security Services12 New Project Investment Feasibility AnalysisComplete Table of Contents Available @About Research n Reports:Research N Reports is a new age market research firm where we focus on providing information that can be effectively applied. Today being a consumer driven market, companies require information to deal with the complex and dynamic world of choices. Where relying on a sound board firm for your decisions becomes crucial. Research N Reports specializes in industry analysis, market forecasts and as a result getting quality reports covering all verticals, whether be it gaining perspective on current market conditions or being ahead in the cut throat United States competition. Since we excel at business research to help businesses grow, we also offer consulting as an extended arm to our services which only helps us gain more insight into current trends and problems. Consequently we keep evolving as an all-rounder provider of viable information under one roof.Contact us:Mr. Sunny DenisContact No. +1-888-631-6977sales@researchnreports.com(ResearchnReports)
Prescriber360 to exhibit at BIO 2017 showcasing innovative solutions for life sciences industry

Prescriber360, the leading cloud-based life science tech solutions provider will be exhibiting at booth #414 at BIO 2017 International Convention. The event will be held from June 19-22, 2017, located at the San Diego Convention Center: San Diego, CA.At BIO 2017, Prescriber360 will have the chance to exhibit its leading technical solutions to the life sciences industry. The company provides comprehensive solutions to manage entire commercial strategy, operations, and clinical trials, allowing companies to make decisions based on data and analytics. The Microsoft Gold partner company offers suite of life science industry solutions  SFA, Clinical Trial Management, Analytics & Data Management, Managed Care, Master Data Management, IoT, Artificial Intelligence and more.The world is changing rapidly. The advancement of technology and digital transformation has changed the life science industry like never before. Digital transformation to become more than $100 billion of market value in the US in next five-year and companies which are embracing technologies like machine learning, IoT, and artificial intelligence will stay at the top. BIO 2017 is a perfect platform for us to meet the industry leaders and address what is possible through digital transformation and how to achieve the goal, said Anupam Nandwana, CEO at Prescriber360.BIO International Convention is an industry leading partnering event where the global biotech community meets and connects under one roof. More than 16,000+ attendees from 76 countries will attend the event for the exposure to business opportunity and new partnerships.To meet us at booth #414 register on our website.Prescriber360 Solutions is a Microsoft Gold Partner and leading provider of technical solutions for the life sciences industry. At Prescriber360, our team leverages over 25 years of industry expertise to guide life science companies in defining and executing commercial and clinical strategy. Built on Microsofts cloud platform to facilitate a successful digital transition to Pharma 3.0a patient-centric, high-capability commercial business strategy. When companies partner with Prescriber360, organizations access a vast array of cutting-edge, business-enhancing solutions and services that drive your capabilities far beyond your competitors in the marketplace.Prescriber360Swapan Kumar Manna15 Corporate Place South,Suite 105Piscataway, NJ 08854732-703-6100
A Toy On A Mission To Unite A Divided World

Meet The Worlds Best Friend...Pet RainbowA plush toy on a mission to unite a divided world.JUNE 15TH, 2017: Today, Alyssa Pulice, Creative Director, announces the launch of The Pet Rainbow Project. The goal of The Pet Rainbow Project is to teach core values that inspire positive behaviors so that together we can put an end to racism, bullying, violence and hate crimes.Pet Rainbow is a soft touch that we need in our divided world. Its time that we accept our differences and promote a message of unity said Alyssa Pulice, Creative Director for the Pet Rainbow Project.By associating the rainbows colors with core values, Pet Rainbow brings to light a fun and engaging waythat not only promotes our positive behaviors today, it helps create the positive leaders of tomorrow.Pet Rainbow comes complete with a Core Values Booklet, seven Value Crayons, Pet Rainbow Stickers,an official Certificate of Adoption as well as a charming Pet Rainbow house that may be colored to match the personality of the owners very own Pet Rainbow.One Smile is all it Takes to Make a World of DifferenceThe Pet Rainbow Project is dedicated to giving a percentage of its profit to gifting Pet Rainbows to Childrens Hospitals throughout the world.In our Kickstarter campaign, we also make it possible for backers to gift Pet Rainbows to Childrens Hospitals of their choice.We have already contacted top Childrens Hospitals throughout the USA and Canada and they cannot wait to share Pet Rainbows uplifting message with their children.Pet Rainbow is available for preorder on Kickstarter starting at $15 for the complete Pet Rainbow package.Pet Rainbow Project - The World's Best FriendLive Now on Kickstarter - kck.st/2sEW5z1Alyssa@petrainbowproject.comPet Rainbow ProjectAlyssa PuliceCreative Directoralyssa@petrainbowproject.com1200 Windfield Dr.Williamsport PA 17701
Polyurethane Dispersions Market worth USD 2.04 Billion USD by 2020

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The report " Polyurethane Dispersions Market by Type (Water-Based Polyurethane Dispersions and Solvent-Based Polyurethane Dispersions), by Application (Coatings, Adhesives & Sealants, Synthetic Leather Production, Fiber Glass Sizing, and Others) - Trends & Forecasts to 2020", The global polyurethane dispersions market is projected to reach USD 2.04 Billion by 2020 at a CAGR of 6.8% between 2015 and 2020. This growth is fueled by the high potential from the textile and leather industry, increasing global demand for automotive, and the growth in the furniture and interiors industry.Browse 115 market data tables and 50 figures spread through 159 pages and in-depth TOC on Polyurethane Dispersions Market by Type (Water-Based Polyurethane Dispersions and Solvent-Based Polyurethane Dispersions), by Application (Coatings, Adhesives & Sealants, Synthetic Leather Production, Fiber Glass Sizing, and Others) - Trends & Forecasts to 2020"Early buyers will receive 10% customization on reports.Water-Based Polyurethane Dispersions: The largest type of polyurethane dispersionsThe water-based polyurethane dispersions are of great importance due to their extraordinary characteristics of containing lower levels of volatile organic content (VOC). Water-based polyurethane dispersions are environmentally friendly and are used in various industries, majorly in paints & coatings. In addition to this, they are used as binders in hygiene coatings, insulating coatings, concrete sealers, industrial coatings, architectural coatings, paper coatings, leather & textile finishing, printing ink, and various other applications. With the growing governmental regulations in developed & emerging economies to keep the VOCs below 350 g/l are expected to drive the water-based polyurethane dispersions market in coming future.Download PDF Brochure:Coatings: The largest application market for polyurethane dispersionsThe coatings industry is the largest application of polyurethane dispersions globally. Polyurethane dispersions are used widely for coatings application in various end-use industries such as construction, automotive, aerospace, electronics, leather, textile, wood, and other. Owing to their impressive resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and excellent mechanical properties, polyurethane dispersions are turning out to be a popular material preferred for coatings in industrial and architectural sectors. Additionally, coatings market is expected to boost further with the shift in industries from developed to developing economies, particularly from the U.S. to China. Different types of coatings such as decorative coatings, industrial coatings, architectural coatings, and maintenance coatings market are growing individually.Asia-Pacific: The largest market for polyurethane dispersionsAsia-Pacific is the global forerunner of polyurethane dispersions market, in terms of value and volume, and is expected to continue till 2020. The countries in this region such as China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand are witnessing a significant increase in the use of polyurethane dispersions in coatings, adhesives & sealants, and synthetic leather production applications. This growth is mainly due to the increasing demand for coatings in automotive, the textile & leather industry, and construction sector in Asia-Pacific. Further, rapid development in Asia-Pacific is vigorously pushing the demand for polyurethane dispersions for coatings, leather production, adhesives, and other applications. China and India are the fastest-growing markets, and are estimated to follow a similar trend by 2020.Speak To Analyst:The polyurethane dispersions market has a few numbers of global players competing significantly for the market share, who are actively investing in various strategies such as, new product developments, major acquisitions, joint venture & collaboration, and expansion projects globally to increase their market share. Also, companies are investing heavily on R&D activities. Major players such as The Dow Chemical Company (U.S.), Mitsui Chemicals (Japan), BASF SE (Germany), COIM (Italy), Covestro AG (Germany), Chase Corporation (U.S.), and Cytec Industries Inc. (U.S.) have adopted various organic and inorganic developmental strategies.This report covers the market by value and volume for polyurethane dispersions and forecasts the market size till 2020. The report includes the market segmentation by type, by application, and by region. It also includes company profiles and competitive strategies adopted by the major market players in the global polyurethane dispersions market.About MarketsandMarketsMarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies revenues. Currently servicing 5000 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions.Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model  GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.MarketsandMarketss flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "RT" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.Contact:Mr. RohanMarketsandMarkets701 Pike StreetSuite 2175, Seattle,WA 98101, United StatesTel: 1-888-600-6441Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.comVisit our Blog @701 Pike StreetSuite 2175, Seattle,WA 98101, United States
Dysprosia Market Size 2017 :California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois

Dysprosia market

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Dysprosia MarketA market study  Global Dysprosia Market  examines the performance of the Dysprosia market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Dysprosia market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Dysprosia market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Dysprosia Market 2016-2017 report includes Dysprosia market Revenue, market Share, Dysprosia industry volume, market Trends, Dysprosia Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Dysprosia Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Dysprosia Market Segment by States California Texas New York Florida IllinoisFirstly, the report covers the top Dysprosia manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Dysprosia report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Dysprosia industry, Dysprosia industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Dysprosia Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Dysprosia research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Dysprosia market revenue worldwide.Finally, Dysprosia market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Flax Fiber Market Size 2017 : California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois

Flax Fiber market

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Flax Fiber MarketA market study  Global Flax Fiber Market  examines the performance of the Flax Fiber market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Flax Fiber market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Flax Fiber market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Flax Fiber Market 2016-2017 report includes Flax Fiber market Revenue, market Share, Flax Fiber industry volume, market Trends, Flax Fiber Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Flax Fiber Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Flax Fiber Market Segment by States California Texas New York Florida IllinoisFirstly, the report covers the top Flax Fiber manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Flax Fiber report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Flax Fiber industry, Flax Fiber industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Flax Fiber Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Flax Fiber research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Flax Fiber market revenue worldwide.Finally, Flax Fiber market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Acetoxime Market Size 2017 : California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois

Acetoxime market

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Acetoxime MarketA market study  Global Acetoxime Market  examines the performance of the Acetoxime market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Acetoxime market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Acetoxime market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Acetoxime Market 2016-2017 report includes Acetoxime market Revenue, market Share, Acetoxime industry volume, market Trends, Acetoxime Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Acetoxime Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Acetoxime Market Segment by States California Texas New York Florida IllinoisFirstly, the report covers the top Acetoxime manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Acetoxime report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Acetoxime industry, Acetoxime industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Acetoxime Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Acetoxime research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Acetoxime market revenue worldwide.Finally, Acetoxime market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Anti block Agent Market Size 2017 : California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois

Anti block Agent market

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Anti block Agent MarketA market study  Global Anti block Agent Market  examines the performance of the Anti block Agent market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Anti block Agent market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Anti block Agent market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Anti block Agent Market 2016-2017 report includes Anti block Agent market Revenue, market Share, Anti block Agent industry volume, market Trends, Anti block Agent Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Anti block Agent Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Anti block Agent Market Segment by States California Texas New York Florida IllinoisFirstly, the report covers the top Anti block Agent manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Anti block Agent report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Anti block Agent industry, Anti block Agent industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Anti block Agent Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Anti block Agent research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Anti block Agent market revenue worldwide.Finally, Anti block Agent market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Antistatic Fiber Market Forecast 2017 : California, New York, Texas, Illinois, Florida

Antistatic Fiber market

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Antistatic Fiber Market 2016-2017A market study  Global Antistatic Fiber Market  examines the performance of the Antistatic Fiber market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Antistatic Fiber market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Antistatic Fiber market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Antistatic Fiber Market 2016-2017 report includes Antistatic Fiber market Revenue, market Share, Antistatic Fiber industry volume, market Trends, Antistatic Fiber Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Antistatic Fiber Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Antistatic Fiber Market Segment by States California Texas New York Florida IllinoisFirstly, the report covers the top Antistatic Fiber manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Antistatic Fiber report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Antistatic Fiber industry, Antistatic Fiber industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Antistatic Fiber Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Antistatic Fiber research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Antistatic Fiber market revenue worldwide.Finally, Antistatic Fiber market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan discussed counter-terrorism efforts and bilateral ties during talks in Cairo on Monday, El-Sisi's office said in a statement.

"Both sides stressed the importance of concerted efforts by all Arab states and the international community in fighting terrorism, especially stopping the funding of terrorist groups, their political and media cover and the provision of weapons and fighters," the statement from presidential spokesman Alaa Toussef said.

Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain severed diplomatic ties and transport and trade links with Qatar two weeks ago, accusing the gulf state of supporting terrorism and meddling in the internal affairs of states in the region.

Monday's statement did not make any direct reference to Qatar.

The two leaders emphasised the need to "boost joint Arab action" and work to "reach political solutions for crises in the region" to restore security and stability.

During the talks, El-Sisi said that Egypt looks forward to continually developing mutual ties with UAE in all fields.

UAE is one of the major backers of El-Sisi's government, offering Cairo billions of dollars in aid packages.

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Calcipotriene Market Forecast 2017 : HBCChem, LEO Pharma Ireland, Cayman Chemical, Beta Pharma

Calcipotriene market

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Calcipotriene Market 2016-2017A market study  Global Calcipotriene Market  examines the performance of the Calcipotriene market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Calcipotriene market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Calcipotriene market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Calcipotriene Market 2016-2017 report includes Calcipotriene market Revenue, market Share, Calcipotriene industry volume, market Trends, Calcipotriene Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Calcipotriene Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Calcipotriene Market 2017:1. HBCChem2. Waterstone Technology3. Wuhan Jinnuo Chemical4. LEO Pharma Ireland5. Pure Chemistry Scientific6. Masuda Chemical Industries7. Cayman Chemical8. Beta Pharma9. Sequoia Research ProductsFirstly, the report covers the top Calcipotriene manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Calcipotriene report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Calcipotriene industry, Calcipotriene industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Calcipotriene Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Calcipotriene research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Calcipotriene market revenue worldwide.Finally, Calcipotriene market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Chlorhexidine Acetate Market Forecast 2017 : Pure Chemistry Scientific Inc., TCI Japan, HBCChem, EMMX Biotechnology LLC

Chlorhexidine Acetate market

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Chlorhexidine Acetate Market 2016-2017A market study  Global Chlorhexidine Acetate Market  examines the performance of the Chlorhexidine Acetate market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Chlorhexidine Acetate market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Chlorhexidine Acetate market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Chlorhexidine Acetate Market 2016-2017 report includes Chlorhexidine Acetate market Revenue, market Share, Chlorhexidine Acetate industry volume, market Trends, Chlorhexidine Acetate Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Chlorhexidine Acetate Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Chlorhexidine Acetate Market 2017:1. Pure Chemistry Scientific Inc.2. TCI Japan3. HBCChem, Inc.4. EMMX Biotechnology LLCFirstly, the report covers the top Chlorhexidine Acetate manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Chlorhexidine Acetate report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Chlorhexidine Acetate industry, Chlorhexidine Acetate industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Chlorhexidine Acetate Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Chlorhexidine Acetate research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Chlorhexidine Acetate market revenue worldwide.Finally, Chlorhexidine Acetate market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market Forecast 2017 : INTATRADE GmbH, TCI Japan, MedChemexpress LLC, HBCChem, Toronto Research Chemicals

Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market

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Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market 2016-2017A market study  Global Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market  examines the performance of the Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market 2016-2017 report includes Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market Revenue, market Share, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride industry volume, market Trends, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market 2017:1. INTATRADE GmbH2. Pure Chemistry Scientific Inc.3. TCI Japan4. MedChemexpress LLC5. HBCChem, Inc.6. Toronto Research Chemicals7. Basic Pharma Life Science Pvt., Ltd.8. 3B Scientific Corporation9. AlliChem, LLCFirstly, the report covers the top Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride industry, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market revenue worldwide.Finally, Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
1,2-Propylene Glycol Market Forecast 2017 : Archer Daniels Midland, BASF, Dow Chemical, Huntsman, SKC

1,2-Propylene Glycol market

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1,2-Propylene Glycol Market 2016-2017A market study  Global 1,2-Propylene Glycol Market  examines the performance of the 1,2-Propylene Glycol market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the 1,2-Propylene Glycol market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of 1,2-Propylene Glycol market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global 1,2-Propylene Glycol Market 2016-2017 report includes 1,2-Propylene Glycol market Revenue, market Share, 1,2-Propylene Glycol industry volume, market Trends, 1,2-Propylene Glycol Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, 1,2-Propylene Glycol Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global 1,2-Propylene Glycol Market 2017:1. Archer Daniels Midland2. BASF3. Dow Chemical4. Dupont Tate & Lyle Bio Products5. Global Bio-Chem Technology Group6. Huntsman7. Lyondellbasell Industries8. SKC9. Temix InternationalFirstly, the report covers the top 1,2-Propylene Glycol manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the 1,2-Propylene Glycol report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of 1,2-Propylene Glycol industry, 1,2-Propylene Glycol industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. 1,2-Propylene Glycol Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The 1,2-Propylene Glycol research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the 1,2-Propylene Glycol market revenue worldwide.Finally, 1,2-Propylene Glycol market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
1,3-Propylene Glycol Market Forecast 2017 : Archer Daniels Midland, BASF, Dow Chemical, Huntsman, SKC, Temix International

1,3-Propylene Glycol market

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1,3-Propylene Glycol Market 2016-2017A market study  Global 1,3-Propylene Glycol Market  examines the performance of the 1,3-Propylene Glycol market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the 1,3-Propylene Glycol market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of 1,3-Propylene Glycol market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global 1,3-Propylene Glycol Market 2016-2017 report includes 1,3-Propylene Glycol market Revenue, market Share, 1,3-Propylene Glycol industry volume, market Trends, 1,3-Propylene Glycol Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, 1,3-Propylene Glycol Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global 1,3-Propylene Glycol Market 2017:1. Archer Daniels Midland2. BASF3. Dow Chemical4. Dupont Tate & Lyle Bio Products5. Global Bio-Chem Technology Group6. Huntsman7. Lyondellbasell Industries8. SKC9. Temix InternationalFirstly, the report covers the top 1,3-Propylene Glycol manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the 1,3-Propylene Glycol report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of 1,3-Propylene Glycol industry, 1,3-Propylene Glycol industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. 1,3-Propylene Glycol Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The 1,3-Propylene Glycol research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the 1,3-Propylene Glycol market revenue worldwide.Finally, 1,3-Propylene Glycol market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USAWebsite:
Automotive Brake Plate Market Outlook 2017- UTIL, Brace, Jinyu, Metalli, Wanxiang, ACDelco

Automotive Brake Plate Market

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A market study  Global Automotive Brake Plate Market  examines the performance of the Automotive Brake Plate market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Automotive Brake Plate market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Automotive Brake Plate market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Automotive Brake Plate Market 2017 report includes Automotive Brake Plate market Revenue, market Share, Automotive Brake Plate industry volume, market Trends, Automotive Brake Plate Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Automotive Brake Plate Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Automotive Brake Plate Market 2017:Federal-MogulBendixNRSMATCentricACDelcoRaybestosMetalliUTILFritecSupergripWanxiangBraceKaitaiPuteJinyuTeng lingFirstly, the report covers the top Automotive Brake Plate manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Automotive Brake Plate report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Automotive Brake Plate industry, Automotive Brake Plate industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Automotive Brake Plate Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Automotive Brake Plate research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Automotive Brake Plate market revenue worldwide.Finally, Automotive Brake Plate market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
Single End Heater Market Outlook 2017- BUYDEEM, YIBEINUO, HYUNDAI, GREE, 1time, Bear, Haier

Single End Heater Market

http://bit.ly/2sAe0ai

http://bit.ly/2s8xX6N

A market study  Global Single End Heater Market  examines the performance of the Single End Heater market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Single End Heater market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Single End Heater market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Single End Heater Market 2017 report includes Single End Heater market Revenue, market Share, Single End Heater industry volume, market Trends, Single End Heater Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Single End Heater Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Single End Heater Market 2017:MarleyHaierGREEYIBEINUO1timeBUYDEEMHYUNDAIBearFirstly, the report covers the top Single End Heater manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Single End Heater report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Single End Heater industry, Single End Heater industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Single End Heater Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Single End Heater research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Single End Heater market revenue worldwide.Finally, Single End Heater market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
Dust Electrostatic Gun Market Outlook 2017- WAGNER, KREMLIN REXSON, GRACO, Gema Switzerland, SAMES Technologies

Dust Electrostatic Gun Market

http://bit.ly/2t9PiKX

http://bit.ly/2ryMavj

A market study  Global Dust Electrostatic Gun Market  examines the performance of the Dust Electrostatic Gun market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Dust Electrostatic Gun market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Dust Electrostatic Gun market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Dust Electrostatic Gun Market 2017 report includes Dust Electrostatic Gun market Revenue, market Share, Dust Electrostatic Gun industry volume, market Trends, Dust Electrostatic Gun Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Dust Electrostatic Gun Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Dust Electrostatic Gun Market 2017:GRACOGema SwitzerlandKREMLIN REXSONWAGNERSAMES TechnologiesFirstly, the report covers the top Dust Electrostatic Gun manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Dust Electrostatic Gun report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Dust Electrostatic Gun industry, Dust Electrostatic Gun industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Dust Electrostatic Gun Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Dust Electrostatic Gun research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Dust Electrostatic Gun market revenue worldwide.Finally, Dust Electrostatic Gun market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
Sound Bar Market Outlook 2017- JVC, Canton, Bose, Sonos, Edifier, Vizio, Sony, Philips, Polk Audio, LG

Sound Bar Market

http://bit.ly/2rn8svX

http://bit.ly/2siX8SM

A market study  Global Sound Bar Market  examines the performance of the Sound Bar market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Sound Bar market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Sound Bar market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Sound Bar Market 2017 report includes Sound Bar market Revenue, market Share, Sound Bar industry volume, market Trends, Sound Bar Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Sound Bar Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Sound Bar Market 2017:SamsungVizioYamahaSonyLGPhilipsPanasonicSharpBosePolk AudioHarmanJVCSonosCantonXiaomiEdifierFirstly, the report covers the top Sound Bar manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Sound Bar report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Sound Bar industry, Sound Bar industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Sound Bar Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Sound Bar research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Sound Bar market revenue worldwide.Finally, Sound Bar market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
Microprocessor Market Outlook 2017- Amlogic, TSMC, Broadcom, Nufront, Leadcore, IBM, Intel, AMD

Microprocessor Market

http://bit.ly/2szTUgr

http://www.spiremarketresearch.com/global-microprocessor-sales-market-report-2017/

A market study  Global Microprocessor Market  examines the performance of the Microprocessor market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Microprocessor market state and the competitive landscape globally. This report analyzes the potential of Microprocessor market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The Global Microprocessor Market 2017 report includes Microprocessor market Revenue, market Share, Microprocessor industry volume, market Trends, Microprocessor Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Microprocessor Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of Global Microprocessor Market 2017:IntelQualcommSamsungAMDFreescaleTINvidiaBroadcomIBMAtmelToshibaMediaTekTSMCSpreadtrumLeadcoreAmlogicNufrontIngenicFirstly, the report covers the top Microprocessor manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Microprocessor report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Microprocessor industry, Microprocessor industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Microprocessor Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Microprocessor research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Microprocessor market revenue worldwide.Finally, Microprocessor market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
Egypt's Prime Minister Sherif Ismail announced that the Islamic Eid Al-Fitr holiday will start on Sunday and run for three days, state news agency MENA reported.

Public sector employees in ministries, governmental authorities, and other state-owned institutions will take three days off work for the holiday.

Eid Al-Fitr is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.



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Lead Frame Market Outlook 2017: Enomoto, DNP, POSSEHL, Hualong, SDI, Kangqiang, I-Chiun

Lead Frame Market

http://bit.ly/2s8lHmK

http://bit.ly/2swZWxR

A market study  United States Lead Frame Market  examines the performance of the Lead Frame market 2017. It encloses an in-depth Research of the Lead Frame market state and the competitive landscape United Statesly. This report analyzes the potential of Lead Frame market in the present and the future prospects from various angles in detail.The United States Lead Frame Market 2017 report includes Lead Frame market Revenue, market Share, Lead Frame industry volume, market Trends, Lead Frame Growth aspects. A wide range of applications, Utilization ratio, Supply and demand analysis are also consist in the report.It shows manufacturing capacity, Lead Frame Price during the Forecast period from 2017 to 2022.To Get Sample Report Click Here:Manufacturers Analysis and Top Sellers of United States Lead Frame Market 2017:SH MaterialsMitsui High-tecSDIShinkoASM Assembly Materials LimitedSamsungPOSSEHLI-ChiunEnomotoDynacraft IndustriesDNPLG InnotekKangqiangHualongJentechFirstly, the report covers the top Lead Frame manufacturing industry players from regions like United States, EU, Japan, and China. It also characterizes the market based on geological regions.Further, the Lead Frame report gives information on the company profile, market share and contact details along with value chain analysis of Lead Frame industry, Lead Frame industry rules and policies, circumstances driving the growth of the market and compulsion blocking the growth. Lead Frame Market development scope and various business strategies are also mentioned in this report.Browse Full Report Here:The Lead Frame research report includes the products that are currently in demand and available in the market along with their cost breakup, manufacturing volume, import/export scheme and contribution to the Lead Frame market revenue worldwide.Finally, Lead Frame market report gives you details about the market research findings and conclusion which helps you to develop profitable market strategies to gain competitive advantage.About Us:"Spire Market Research" is a leading market intelligence team which accredits and provides the reports of some of the top publishers in the field of technology industry. We are as a firm expertise in making extensive reports that cover all the necessary details about the market assessments such as major technological improvement in the industry.Contact Us5001 Spring Valley Road,Suite 400 East,Dallas, TX 75244, USA
FarEye Wins Prestigious World Post & Parcel Award In The Technology Category

FarEye team receives the World Post and Parcel award

http://www.getfareye.com/in/

Dubai, UAE, June 18, 2017: FarEye, a leading Global Logistics Management solution has claimed top honours at the World Post & Parcel Awards 2017, which was held in Paris recently. The company was recognised for revolutionising the Logistics and Supply Chain Industry with its flexible, scalable and future-oriented mobile solutions.Regarded as the Oscars of the Logistics industry, the World Post & Parcel Awards 2017 celebrated the successes of emerging talents in Mail and Express industry across the globe. Kushal Nahata, Co-founder & CEO of FarEye and Gaurav Srivastava Co-founder & CTO of FarEye accepted the prestigious award in the Technology category on behalf of their entire global team.Speaking on their achievement, Kushal Nahata, Co-founder & CEO of FarEye said, We founded FarEye in 2013 with a vision to solve the huge challenge of visibility and inefficiencies in the supply chain industry. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our incredible team and clients for their continued support and faith in us. Having achieved this milestone, we shall continue to march forward with a focus on serving our clients better, every day!FarEye has been revolutionising the supply chain operations for enterprises by empowering deskless workforce and reiterating success stories across the industry verticals. As a multi-lingual mobile product with a process engine to adapt to geographic specific logistic processes, FarEyes platform is catering seamlessly to the international demand. We are extremely delighted to be listed as the global leaders in history and this award is a testament of our innovative offerings, added Gaurav Srivastava Co-founder & CTO of FarEye.FarEyes intuitive dashboard delivers complete visibility to CxOs thus helping them enhance their customers experience and deliver their brand promise real-time. FarEyes solution is transforming operations through its intelligent dispatch and machine-learning algorithms and empowering enterprises by providing them a competitive edge. Through artificial intelligence capabilities and smart analytics, the organisations can enhance their customers experience with updates on the go.FarEye created the worlds first Business Process Management platform for Logistics companies to optimize their supply chains, bring in visibility and provide deeper analytics into their processes. The company has been helping organisations execute approximately 1 Million transactions per day thus increasing the first-time attempts by 25%, reducing the fuel expenses by 28% and increasing the customer visits by 66%.FarEye brings the expertise of working with larger enterprises across industry verticals including Express, Supply Chain, Retail, Financial Services and Pathology. The logistics management solution has been empowering over 75 large organisations across 15 countries including the likes of DHL-BlueDart, Zalora, Mara Xpress, Namshi, Hero FinCorp, Hitachi and Indian wings of Amway & Walmart.FarEye had raised Series A funding last year to cater to overseas demand with offices in Dubai and Singapore. Forecasting the demand from developed markets, FarEye has already expanded in the US and Europe having already secured some large enterprise projects and running multiple pilots for other companies in parallel.FarEye is one of the fastest growing SaaS companies and has transformed the logistics & supply chain industry with its disruptive mobility solution. FarEye, in essence is a productivity and efficiency tool for leaders to manage logistics, salesforce and field services.For more details, visitFarEye, Plot number 1, Okhla Phase 3, New Delhi - 110020India : +91 11-42003396
Global Grain Oriented Electrical Market by Manufacturers, Countries, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022

http://www.globalinforesearch.com/goods.php?id=14733

http://www.globalinforesearch.com/goods_all.php

http://www.globalinforesearch.com/goods_all.php

Full information Electrical steel is an alloy that contains iron and silicon. It can be manufactured by modifying the magnetic properties of steel for efficient magnetism and electricity conversion. Also called silicon steel, lamination steel, relay steel or transformer steel, this type of steel is very often used to build the cores of transformers as well as the stators of generators and motors. An electrical steel sheet is a functional material used as an iron core material for electrical equipment. There are two types of electrical steel: grain oriented electrical steel and non-grain oriented electrical steel, and they are used for different applications. In this report we researched grain oriented electrical steel.(GIR-Globalinforesearch) Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Grain Oriented Electrical 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 coversNSSMCPoscoJFE SteelNLMK GroupThyssenKruppAK SteelCogent(Tata Steel)ArcelorMittalStalprodukt S.A.ATIWISCOBaosteelShougangMarket Segment by Regions, regional analysis coversNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Type, coversConventionalHigh magnetic StrengthDomain RefinementMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoTransformerPower GeneratorElectric MotorOtherThere are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Grain Oriented Electrical market.Chapter 1, to describe Grain Oriented Electrical Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Grain Oriented Electrical, with sales, revenue, and price of Grain Oriented Electrical, in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Grain Oriented Electrical, for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the key regions, with sales, revenue and market share by key countries in these regions;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 12, Grain Oriented Electrical market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Grain Oriented Electrical sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data sourceMarcoSales Director (GIR-GlobalInfoResearch)E-mailmarco@globalinforesearch.comTel: HK:00852-58197708 USA:0013479661888Add: Room 1902 Two International Finance Centre 8 Finance Street, Central Hong KongWebsite:GlobalInfoResearch is a customer interest-based suppliers. Is in the best interests of our clients, they determine our every move. At the same time, we have great respect for the views of customers. With the improvement of the quality of our research, we develop custom interdisciplinary and comprehensive solution. For further development, we will do better and better.GlobalInfoResearch will with excellent professional knowledge and experience to carry out all aspects of our business. At the same time, we will fully look for information, to give a more comprehensive development.GlobalinforesearchRoom 1902 Two Interational Finance Centre 8 Finance Street,Central Hong KongUSA:0013479661888 HK:00852-58197708Email Id: marco@globalinforesearch.comWebsite:
Hindus find Irelands Religious Education certification program flawed NewsPatrolling.com : Hindus have alleged that Irelands Junior Certificate in Religious Education program is flawed as minority religions are not getting fair and even treatment.



Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada today, said that in addition to much broader coverage to the majority religion as compared to minority religions, the syllabus of this program appeared to be imposing the value systems of the majority religion and looking at other religions through the lens of majority religion.



Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, indicated that in the increasingly diverse and multicultural Ireland, equal time should be provided to each of the major religions and non-belief in the syllabus of such certification. Public funds should not be used to promote one belief system over the other.



Moreover, this syllabus only covered Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Judaism and there was apparently no mention of Sikhism, Daoism, Confucianism, Bahaism, Shinto, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, etc.; despite the fact that rationale of the program was given as: Religious Education should ensure that students are exposed to a broad range of religious traditions, Rajan Zed noted.



Zed further said that opening-up the Ireland children to unbiased view of major world religions and non-believers viewpoint would make them well-nurtured, well-balanced, and enlightened citizens of tomorrow. It also made a good business sense in a global community to know the beliefs of others from a neutral perspective. Moreover, students should have the honest knowledge of the entire society to become full participants in the society.

Rajan Zed pointed out that Ireland students mostly knew the basics of majority religion, learning from homes/churches/schools/etc., and there was urgent need to create awareness about other beliefs so they could acquire the basic grounding in belief.



Zed urged serious reexamining and rebuilding of the Junior Certificate in Religious Education program so that all the belief systems and non-believers got equal treatment and without any bias.



Rajan Zed hoped that Ireland might look at religious education with a neutral perspective and treat minority religions with equality and respect they deserved under the leadership of newly elected Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Dr. Leo Varadkar, who was of Hindu descent.



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Weekly Voting Results Report on Current Affairs - Seven Billion Today

http://sevenbilliontoday.com/

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Jean Cao, Executive Director+852 53609885jean@sevenbilliontoday.comHong Kong (19 June, 2017)  Seven Billion Today (sevenbilliontoday.com), a new social media platform with a conscience, has been launched across the world, designed for people, charities and NGOs to post and raise awareness of the issues affecting mankind today.Top votes of last week on Seven Billion Today:1. US Senators Narrowly Backs Weapons Sale to Saudi Arabia38% of respondents think the US should continue selling weapons to Saudi Arabia.2. Japan Passes Anti-Conspiracy Bill amid Protests45% of voters believe Japans anti-conspiracy bill should be passed amid nationwide protests.3. Disabled Girls Excluded from Education and Aid78% of people think more international educational programmes targeting girls with disabilities should be established.4. Ugandas HIV Plan Ignores Gays and Sex WorkersOnly 28% of respondents believe Ugandas HIV plan ignoring gays and sex workers will work.5. End UN Palestinian Aid Agency? Israel Suggests53% of voters support abolishing the UN Relief and Welfare Agency.6. Women's Participation in Workforce Declines Globally81% of people believe narrowing workplace gender gap can boost the economy.7. Lebanon: Death Penalty Might Be Back for Rising Crimes40% of respondents support reimplementing the death penalty for intentional crimes.Get involved on: sevenbilliontoday.com.To find out more visit us or email Jean Cao, Executive Director, via email: jean@sevenbilliontoday.com.About Company: Seven Billion Today donates its profits to causes, charities or NGOs that the community nominates on a monthly basis.The platform is available to all participants on a zero-cost basis.We live in a time when greed and profit, corruption, injustice, inequality, conflict and bureaucracy reigns. As humanity, we see poverty, crime, sickness, famine, environmental decay, war, displacement, and hopelessness borne out of poor governance and profiteering.We have had enough. Seven Billion Today is where we meet, share our views, get heard, be counted and make a difference - because together, we can.Users can get involved by:- Posting articles, images and videos about issues or projects you are passionate about- Creating polls, and voting on different topics- Connecting with and messaging like-minded people across the planetSeven Billion Today (sevenbilliontoday.com), a new social media platform with a conscience, has been launched across the world, designed for people, charities and NGOs to post and raise awareness of the issues affecting mankind today.Jean CaoExecutive DirectorSeven Billion TodaySuite 13A, World Trust Tower, Central, HK+85253609885
Global Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Market 2017 Top Players - Fortinet, HP, Barracuda, Brocade, Dell, Radware

https://www.fiormarkets.com/report-detail/56014/request-sample

https://goo.gl/xxfBcj

www.fiormarkets.com

www.9dimenreports.com

To begin with, the report defines the Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) market and segments it based on the most important dynamics, such as applications, geographical/regional markets, and competitive scenario. Macroeconomic and microeconomic factors environments that currently prevail and also those that are projected to emerge are covered in this report.Download Free Sample Report @The reports analysis is based on technical data and industry figures sourced from the most reputable databases. Other aspects that will prove especially beneficial to readers of the report are: investment feasibility analysis, recommendations for growth, investment return analysis, trends analysis, opportunity analysis, and SWOT analyses of competing companies. With the help of inputs and insights from technical and marketing experts, the report presents an objective assessment of the Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) market.This report also presents product specification, manufacturing process, and product cost structure etc. Production is separated by regions, technology and applications. Analysis also covers upstream raw materials, equipment, Downstream client survey, Marketing channels, Industry development trend and proposals. In the end, the report includes Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) new project SWOT analysis, Investment feasibility analysis, Investment return analysis, and Development trend analysis. In conclusion, it is a deep research report on Global Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) industry. Here, we express our thanks for the support and assistance from Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) industry chain related technical experts and marketing engineers during Research Teams survey and interviews.Access Full Report @This report not only provides a complete picture of the overall condition of the Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) market, but also assists the players in this market to create profitable market strategies in order to gain a competitive edge.Table of ContentsGlobal Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Market Report 20171 Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Overview2 Global Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Competition by Manufacturers, Type and Application3 United States Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)4 China Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)5 Europe Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)6 Japan Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)7 Southeast Asia Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)8 India Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) (Volume, Value and Sales Price)9 Global Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Manufacturers Analysis10 Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Maufacturing Cost Analysis11 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers12 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders13 Market Effect Factors Analysis14 Global Application Delivery Controllers (ADC) Market Forecast (2017-2022)15 Research Findings and Conclusion16 Appendix16.1 Methodology16.2 Analyst Introduction16.3 Data SourceAbout Fior MarketsFior Markets is a leading market intelligence company that sells reports of top publishers in the technology industry.Our extensive research reports cover detailed market assessments that include major technological improvements in the industry. Fior Markets also specializes in analyzing hi-tech systems and current processing systems in its expertise.Contact UsMark StoneSales Manager2566, Lincoln StreetPrinceton,New Jersey 08540USAPhone: (201) 465-4211Email: sales@fiormarkets.comWeb:Blog:
Global Digital Still Camera Market 2017 Top Players - Nikon, Sony, Canon, Panasonic, Toshiba, Casio

https://www.fiormarkets.com/report-detail/56018/request-sample

https://goo.gl/5UxQaG

www.fiormarkets.com

www.9dimenreports.com

To begin with, the report defines the Digital Still Camera market and segments it based on the most important dynamics, such as applications, geographical/regional markets, and competitive scenario. Macroeconomic and microeconomic factors environments that currently prevail and also those that are projected to emerge are covered in this report.Download Free Sample Report @The reports analysis is based on technical data and industry figures sourced from the most reputable databases. Other aspects that will prove especially beneficial to readers of the report are: investment feasibility analysis, recommendations for growth, investment return analysis, trends analysis, opportunity analysis, and SWOT analyses of competing companies. With the help of inputs and insights from technical and marketing experts, the report presents an objective assessment of the Digital Still Camera market.This report also presents product specification, manufacturing process, and product cost structure etc. Production is separated by regions, technology and applications. Analysis also covers upstream raw materials, equipment, Downstream client survey, Marketing channels, Industry development trend and proposals. In the end, the report includes Digital Still Camera new project SWOT analysis, Investment feasibility analysis, Investment return analysis, and Development trend analysis. In conclusion, it is a deep research report on Global Digital Still Camera industry. Here, we express our thanks for the support and assistance from Digital Still Camera industry chain related technical experts and marketing engineers during Research Teams survey and interviews.Access Full Report @This report not only provides a complete picture of the overall condition of the Digital Still Camera market, but also assists the players in this market to create profitable market strategies in order to gain a competitive edge.Table of ContentsGlobal Digital Still Camera Market Report 20171 Digital Still Camera Overview2 Global Digital Still Camera Competition by Manufacturers, Type and Application3 United States Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)4 China Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)5 Europe Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)6 Japan Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)7 Southeast Asia Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)8 India Digital Still Camera (Volume, Value and Sales Price)9 Global Digital Still Camera Manufacturers Analysis10 Digital Still Camera Maufacturing Cost Analysis11 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers12 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders13 Market Effect Factors Analysis14 Global Digital Still Camera Market Forecast (2017-2022)15 Research Findings and Conclusion16 Appendix16.1 Methodology16.2 Analyst Introduction16.3 Data SourceAbout Fior MarketsFior Markets is a leading market intelligence company that sells reports of top publishers in the technology industry.Our extensive research reports cover detailed market assessments that include major technological improvements in the industry. Fior Markets also specializes in analyzing hi-tech systems and current processing systems in its expertise.Contact UsMark StoneSales Manager2566, Lincoln StreetPrinceton,New Jersey 08540USAPhone: (201) 465-4211Email: sales@fiormarkets.comWeb:Blog:
Bias-ply Agricultural Tractor Tires Market to Lose its Share to Radial-ply Agriculture Tractor Tires Market by 2022

Global Agricultural Tractor Tires Market - Strategic Assessment and Forecast 2017-2022

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/reports/research-report-agriculture-market/agricultural-tractor-tires-market/

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/reports/research-report-agriculture-market/agricultural-tractor-tires-market/

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/contactus/request-sample/

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/reports/research-report-agriculture-market/agriculture-tractor-market/

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/reports/research-report-agriculture-market/precision-agriculture-market-research-report-2022/

http://www.beigemarketintelligence.com/news/press-releases/bias-ply-agricultural-tractor-tires-market-to-lose-its-share-to-radial-ply-agriculture-tractor-tires-market-by-2022/

In 2016, the bias-ply segment accounted for more than 23%, which is likely to decrease in 2022, whereas the radial-ply-tractor tires segment to account for more than 75% of the global market in 2022.Beige Market Intelligence announces the publication of its latest report, Global Agriculture Tractor Tires Market  Strategic Assessment and Forecast 20172022. The report provides a detailed study of the worldwide agriculture tractor tires market and throws some interesting facts about the market segments.View report: Global Agricultural Tractor Tires Market  Strategic Assessment and Forecast 2017-2022The selection of tractor tires is mostly based on the geometry of agriculture tractors. Small agriculture tractors require small tires, whereas large ones and high HP ones demand wide and tall tires. Also, there are mainly two types of construction techniques for agricultural tractor tires: bias-ply and radial-ply.Analysts at Beige Market Intelligence expects that the bias-ply agricultural tractor tires market will lose its market share to the radial-ply agriculture tractor tire market.Reduction in Price to Increase the Market Share of Radial Tractor Tires MarketSome five years ago, the pricing of radial agricultural tractor tires was inhibiting the market growth. However, radial construction technology has commoditized now, which has resulted in decreased pricing of radial-based agriculture tractor tires. Thus, decreasing price of radial agriculture tractor technology has increased the market share for radial-ply tires in the global agriculture tractor tires market.Demand for Radial-ply Tractor Tires is High in EuropeThe demand for radial-ply tires is coming from high load capacities end-users. The demand is majorly high in Europe as the requirement for high HP tractor is huge in the region. Also, the high HP tractor demand can also be witnessed in the US and Brazil to some extent. Almost all agricultural tractor tires in Europe are radial-ply constructed tires. This is because of the advantage radial technology offers over bias-ply technology.The 145-page report provides the analysis of key segments of the agricultural tractor tires market in terms of end-user type, construction type, geography, country, and vendors. Further the report includes market analysis of different regions such as North America, Latin America, APAC, MEA, and Europe. It outlines major market shareholders and the market size analysis of all regions. The report also includes a detailed study of emerging trends, factors driving the growth, and expected challenges for the market during the period 20172022.View Report Details : Global Agriclutural Tractor Tires Market  Strategic Assessment and Forecast 2017-2022ORDER A FREE SAMPLE HERE :In case you need any report on a specific market for a particular country or geography, please contact us at contactus@beigemarketintelligence.com and our research team will be glad to create a customized report for you.Related Reports:Global Agricultural Tractor Market - Strategic Assessment and Forecast 2017-2022Global Precision Agriculture Market - Strategic Assessment and Forecast 2017-2022Source Link:About Beige Market IntelligenceBeige Market Intelligence provides competitive and insightful business intelligence across various industry verticals. Our expertise and knowledge ensures that the analysis provided is comprehensive, detailed, and complete. The analysis helps our client organizations to make insightful decisions and devise innovative marketing strategies for their businesses. The actionable insights delivered through our research reports provide a comprehensive market analysis at every level of market segmentation in the industry.Our team of experts ensure the analysis is not just analyzed and presented but also customized depending upon the clients requirement. When it comes to competitive intelligence, we ensure our clients do not look beyond us.Our employment base is spread across the globe. Our analysts come with a wide industry experience, which includes understanding the client's requirement and delivering high-quality research reports.Beige Market IntelligenceBTM, Bangalore - 560076Mail: contactus@beigemarketintelligence.comUS: +1 347 903 9949UK: +44 20 323 99499APAC: +91 99 012 75473
Global Plastic Bag Market  Share, Size, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2017-2025

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IndexBox has just published a new report "U.S. Plastic Bag Market. Analysis And Forecast to 2025". (The report provides an in-depth analysis of the U.S. plastic bag market. It presents the latest data of the market size and volume, domestic production, exports and imports, price dynamics and turnover in the industry. In addition, the report contains insightful information about the industry, including industry life cycle, business locations, productivity, employment and many other crucial aspects. The Company Profiles section contains relevant data on the major players in the industry.Countries coverage: the U.S.Product coverage:Single-web film specialty bags, pouches, and liners; Multiweb film/film combination specialty bags, pouches, and liners; Plastics bag manufacturing, nsk, totalCompanies mentioned:Flexcon Company, AEP Industries Inc., Klockner Pentaplast of America, Reynolds Presto Products, Ampac Holdings, The Bryce Corporation, Rjf International Corporation, Mitsubishi Polyester Film, Tredegar Corporation, Inteplast Group, Poly-America, Hilex Poly Co., Toray Plastics (america), Tegrant Corporation, Congoleum Corporation, Transilwrap Company, Primex Plastics Corporation, Scholle Corporation, GSE Holding, Taghleef Industries, Clopay Corporation, Formosa Utility Venture, Tredegar Film Products Corporation, Du Pont Teijin Films U.S. Limited Partnership, The Glad Products Company, Liqui-Box Corporation, Mastic Home Exteriors, Essentra Holdings Corp, Pliant, Consolidated Container Holdings, Novolex HoldingsData coverage:- Plastic bag market size;- Plastic bag production, value of shipments;- Key market players and their profiles;- Exports, imports and trade balance;- Import and export prices;- Forecast of the market dynamics in the medium term;- Key industry statistics;- Life cycle of the plastic bag industry;- Number of establishments and their locations;- Employment data;- Plastic bag industry productivity.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 REPORT STRUCTURE1.3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1 KEY FINDINGS2.2 MARKET TRENDS3. MARKET OVERVIEW3.1 MARKET VALUE3.2 TRADE BALANCE3.3 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES3.4 MARKET FORECAST TO 20254. DOMESTIC PRODUCTION4.1 PRODUCTION IN 2008-20154.2 PRODUCTION BY STATE4.3 PRODUCER PRICES5. IMPORTS5.1 IMPORTS IN 2007-20155.2 IMPORTS BY TYPE5.3 IMPORTS BY COUNTRY5.4 IMPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY6. EXPORTS6.1 EXPORTS IN 2007-20156.2 EXPORTS BY TYPE6.3 EXPORTS BY COUNTRY6.4 EXPORT PRICES BY COUNTRY7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE7.1 INDUSTRY SNAPSHOTS7.2 INDUSTRY LIFE CYCLE7.3 BUSINESS LOCATIONS7.4 EMPLOYMENT7.5 ANNUAL PAYROLL7.6 INDUSTRY PRODUCTIVITY7.7 ESTABLISHMENT SIZE AND LEGAL FORM8. COMPANY PROFILESDownload a free sample of the report now!Browse Related Reports:World: Plastic Sacks And Bags - Market Report. Analysis and Forecast to 2025EU: Plastic Sacks And Bags - Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2025Germany: Plastic Boxes, Cases, Crates And Similar Packing Articles - Market Report. Analysis And Forecast To 2025IndexBox is a leading market research publisher in the world.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.With IndexBox, simply take the data from our Box and think outside it.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:
Global Incident Response System Market 2016-2020 - Amazon, Cisco Systems, Honeywell International, IBM, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins

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Latest Research Report titled " Global Incident Response System Market 2016-2020 " features Key Market Players, Survey, Growth, Challenges and Forecast.Incident response is a synchronized effort to address and manage an attack or a security breach after detection. It helps restrict the damage and cut recovery costs and time. An incident response system comprises a response plan that should be followed by the occurrence of an incident. Organization members from departments such as IT staff, security, public relation, and human resource are involved in the plan.The global incident response system market to grow at a CAGR of 12.99% during the period 2016-2020. The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global incident response system market for 2016-2020. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales geospatial technologies, backup and disaster recovery solutions, threat management solutions, and surveillance systems.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:- Americas- APAC- EMEAGet a Sample Research PDF with TOC:Technavio's report, Global Incident Response System Market 2016-2020, 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- Amazon- Cisco Systems- Honeywell International- IBM- Lockheed Martin- Rockwell CollinsOther prominent vendors- Acronis- Asigra- Fujitsu- Nasuni- NetApp- DFLabs- Hexadite- FireEye- HP- Veritas Technologies- CommvaultMarket driver- Increasing concerns regarding data loss- For a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challenge- Ambiguity in selecting vendors- For a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2020 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?About UsResearchMoz 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:
An American fighter jet has for the first time downed a Syrian warplane that Washington accused of attacking US-backed fighters, in a new escalation between the United States and regime forces.

The incident further complicates the country's six-year war and comes as a US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Government ally Iran also Sunday launched missiles from its territory against alleged IS positions in eastern Syria for the first time, in response to an IS-claimed attack in Tehran.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, but warn that the risks are high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields.

The Syrian jet was shot down on Sunday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against IS, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7:00 pm as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces".

Syria's army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while "conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group."

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Regime ally Moscow also condemned the downing of the Syrian plane, with deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov saying: "This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law... What is this if not an act of aggression?"

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital.

It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syria's eastern border.

But the advances have created conflict with the US-led coalition, particularly along the Syrian border, where US and other foreign forces are training an anti-IS force at the Tanf garrison.

In recent weeks, the coalition has fired on pro-regime ground forces approaching the garrison and shot down a pro-regime armed drone.

The coalition describes these incidents as "force protection" measures and says its primary focus remains targeting IS.

Outside of coalition operations, US forces have only once directly targeted the regime, when Washington launched a barrage of strikes in April against an airbase it said was the launchpad for an alleged chemical attack that killed dozens of civilians.

Sam Heller, a Syria expert at The Century Foundation think-tank, said the regime was provoking confrontations, but neither side appeared to want a major escalation.

"I think that it was just that the regime engaged in a provocation and then a lower-rung US commander responded in self-defence," he said of Sunday's incident.

"The regime got too close and it got burned."

He said the provocations by Syria's government and its allies were a potentially risky strategy.

"It doesn't look like anyone currently intends to deliberately escalate further, but when you've got these little skirmishes... the risk is that you can end up in an escalation by accident."

On Monday morning, the area where the regime and SDF fighters clashed was quiet, and the US-backed force was continuing to battle IS inside Raqa, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said.

Government forces meanwhile seized the town of Rusafa, south of Raqa, a key stop on its path to Deir Ezzor and located near provincial oil and gas fields, the monitor said.

Syria's war began in March 2011 with anti-government protests, but has since spiralled into a complex and bloody conflict that has killed more than 320,000 people.

Syria's rebels are now on the backfoot after regime advances with support from allies Russia and Iran.

On Sunday, Tehran for the first time fired missiles from its territory against IS positions in Deir Ezzor.

It said the missiles were "in retaliation" for a June 7 attack on the parliament complex and shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 people and was claimed by IS.

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Global Energy Management Systems (EMS) Market Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Energy Management Systems (EMS) Market By Component (Hardware Components, Software, Communication Network, Control Systems and Sensors and Other Equipment) and By Application (Industrial, Building and Home) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, and Forecast 2016 - 2024" to its huge collection of research reports.This research study analyzes the energy management systems market in terms of revenue (US$ Mn). The energy management systems market has been segmented on the basis of component, application, and geography. The regional segment has been further divided into 15 sub-segments that comprise 11 countries which are major players in the global energy management systems market. For the research, 2014 has been taken as the base year while all forecasts have been given for the 20152024 period. Market data for all the segments has been provided at the regional as well as country-specific level for the 20142024 period. The report provides a broad competitive analysis of companies engaged in energy management systems manufacturing and installation business.The report also includes the key market dynamics such as drivers, restraints, and opportunities affecting the global energy management systems market. These market dynamics were analyzed in detail and are illustrated in the report with the help of supporting graphs and tables. The report also provides a comprehensive analysis of the global energy management systems market with the help of Porters Five Forces model. This analysis helps in understanding the five major forces that affect the market structure and profitability of the global energy management systems market. The forces analyzed are the bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers, threat of new entrants, threat of substitutes, and degree of competition.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report provides detailed insights into the energy management systems business globally. There are currently numerous drivers for the energy management systems market. One of the most prominent drivers is the stringent norms and regulations to reduce carbon footprints globally, mandating higher investments in energy management systems based solutions. Apart from this, energy management systems enables organizations to increase efficiency and reduce operational costs. Market attractiveness analysis was carried out for the energy management systems market on the basis of geography. Market attractiveness was estimated on the basis of common parameters that directly impact the market in different regions.The scope of energy management systems is vast and extends from heating, ventilation, air conditioning and infrastructure to supply chain. Growth potential for the energy management systems market is provided by these energy consumption avenues. With the development of software, and equipment technologies, the market for energy management systems is expected to expand substantially. Growth in the market for energy management systems can be attributed to higher focus on increasing energy efficiency and achieving operational targets at low costs. The market has received further impetus from rising environmental concerns to reduce carbon footprints. Energy management systems eco system is evolving with availability of several technologies and solutions, however, users of energy management systems have been selective in terms of implementation. Regulations related to energy consumption and environment concerns are shaping the next wave of the energy management systems. These regulations would have a significant impact on the energy management systems market in terms of implementing energy management plan as a part of a companys sustainability strategy.The energy management systems market is segmented in terms of component, application and geography. By component the energy management systems market is segmented into hardware components, software, communication networks, control system and sensors and other equipment. By application the market is segmented into industrial, building and home. The energy management systems market was analyzed across five geographies: North America, South & Central America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Middle East & Africa. North America, held the largest market share followed by Europe in 2014. Rise in awareness about the benefits of energy management systems coupled with huge investments in energy management systems solutions is the primary driver for the energy management systems market in North America. South & Central America and Middle East & Africa have experienced sluggish growth in the year 2014.Regional data has been provided for each sub-segment of the energy management systems market. Key market participants in the energy management systems market include Emerson Process Management, Eaton Corporation Plc, General Electric Company, Honeywell International, Inc., Johnson Controls, Inc., Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Pacific Controls, Rockwell Automation, Inc., Schneider Electric SE and Siemens AG.Energy Management Systems Market: By Component- Hardware Component- Software- Communications Networks- Control System- Sensors and EquipmentEnergy Management Systems Market: By Application- Industrial- Building- HomeEnergy Management Systems Market: By Region- North America- U.S.- Canada- Mexico- Europe- Germany- U.K.- Rest of Europe- Asia Pacific- Japan & South Korea- China- Rest of Asia Pacific- Middle East & Africa- Saudi Arabia- A.E.- Rest of Middle East & Africa- South & Central America- Brazil- Argentina- Rest of South & Central 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 Playout Automation Market 2016-2020 - Technology Integration and Forecast

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Latest Research Report titled " Global Playout Automation Market 2016-2020 " features Key Market Players, Survey, Growth, Challenges and Forecast.Playout automation is a technology that integrates all the devices involved in a playout chain (such as video routers, switchers, audio servers, channel branding processors, and graphic inserts) in a single device. Playout automation takes control of multiple devices involved in a playout chain, whereas integrated playout automation uses a single device to perform the functions of different devices involved in a playout chain. Playout automation fulfills needs and requirements of a large number of advertisers and viewers by making the programming easy. It can handle complex operations and allows a broadcaster to reduce the operational cost to a large extent. In addition, playout automation is highly flexible in addressing instant changes during events and saves much time and capital expenses.The global playout automation market to grow at a CAGR of 15.7% during the period 2016-2020. The report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global playout automation market for 2016-2020. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from the sales of playout automation.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:- APAC- EMEA- North America- South AmericaGet a Sample Research PDF with TOC:Technavio's report, Global Playout Automation Market 2016-2020, 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- BroadStream Solutions- Grass Valley- Harmonic- PlayBox TechnologyOther prominent vendors- Aveco- Avid Technology- Crispin- Dalet Digital Media Systems- Etere- Evertz Microsystems- Florical Systems- HARDATA- IBIS- Imagine Communications- Konan Digital- Media-Alliance- NVerzion- Pebble Beach Systems- Pixel Power- Rascular- SI Media- Skylark Technology- Snell Advanced Media- VSNKey questions answered in this report- What will the market size be in 2020 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?About UsResearchMoz 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:
New Study Reveals Artificial Intelligence Global Market Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024

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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Artificial Intelligence Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2016 - 2024" to its huge collection of research reports.The Artificial Intelligence Market report provides analysis of the global artificial intelligence market for the period 20142024, wherein the years from 2016 to 2024 is the forecast period and 2015 is considered as the base year. The report precisely covers all the major trends and technologies playing a major role in the artificial intelligence markets growth over the forecast period. It also highlights the drivers, restraints, and opportunities expected to influence the market growth during this period. The study provides a holistic perspective on the markets growth in terms of revenue (in US$ Bn), across different geographies, which includes Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LATAM), North America, Europe, and Middle East & Africa (MEA).The market overview section of the report showcases the markets dynamics and trends such as the drivers, restraints, and opportunities that influence the current nature and future status of this market. Moreover, the report provides the overview of various strategies and the winning imperatives of the key players in the artificial intelligence market and analyzes their behavior in the prevailing market dynamics.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report segments the global artificial intelligence market on the types of artificial intelligence systems into artificial neural network, digital assistance system, embedded system, expert system, and automated robotic system. By application, the market has been classified into deep learning, smart robots, image recognition, digital personal assistant, querying method, language processing, gesture control, video analysis, speech recognition, context aware processing, and cyber security. Thus, the report provides in-depth cross-segment analysis for the artificial intelligence market and classifies it into various levels, thereby providing valuable insights on macro as well as micro level.The report also provides the competitive landscape for the artificial intelligence market, thereby positioning all the major players according to their geographic presence, market attractiveness and recent key developments. The complete artificial intelligence market estimates are the result of our in-depth secondary research, primary interviews, and in-house expert panel reviews. These market estimates have been analyzed by taking into account the impact of different political, social, economic, technological, and legal factors along with the current market dynamics affecting the artificial intelligence markets growth.QlikTech International AB, MicroStrategy Inc., IBM Corporation, Google, Inc., Brighterion Inc., Microsoft Corporation, IntelliResponse Systems Inc., Next IT Corporation, Nuance Communications, and eGain Corporation are some of the major players which have been profiled in this study. Details such as financials, business strategies, recent developments, and other such strategic information pertaining to these players has been provided as part of company profiling.Below is the list of acronyms used in the report:- SMAC  Social, Mobile, Analytics, and Cloud- IoT  Internet of ThingsMake 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 @
IoT Implementation with Smart Healthcare Products Expands Healthcare Horizons

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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Smart Healthcare Products Market (By Product Type - Smart Syringes, Smart Pills, Smart RFID Cabinets and Electronic Health Record; By Application - Health Data Storage and Exchange, Monitoring and Treatment, and Inventory Management - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2015 - 2023" to its huge collection of research reports.The Smart Healthcare Products Market report provides the analysis for the period 2014  2023, where in period from 2015 to 2023 is forecast period and 2014 is considered as the base year. The report precisely covers all the major trends and technologies playing a major role in the Smart Healthcare Products market growth over the forecast period. It also highlights the drivers, restraints and opportunities expected to influence the market growth during the said period. The study provides the holistic perspective on the Smart Healthcare Products market growth, throughout the above forecast period in terms of revenue (in US$ Mn), across different geographies, which includes Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LATAM), North America, Europe, and Middle East & Africa (MEA).The market overview section of the report demonstrates the market dynamics and trends such as drivers, restraints and opportunities that influence the current nature and future status of this market. Impact analysis of key trends has also been provided for every geographical region in the report, in order to give a thorough analysis of the overall competitive scenario in smart healthcare products market globally. Moreover, the report provides the overview of various strategies and the winning imperatives of the key players in the smart healthcare products market and analyzes their behavior in the prevailing market dynamics.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @The report segments the global smart healthcare product market, on the basis of product types including Smart Syringes, Smart Pills, Smart RFID Cabinets, and Electronic Health Record. On the basis of applications including, Health Data Storage and Exchange, Monitoring and Treatment, and Inventory Management. Thus, the report provides in-depth cross segment analysis for Smart Healthcare Product market and classifies it into various levels, thereby providing valuable insights on macro as well as micro level.The report also provides the competitive landscape for the Smart Healthcare Product market, thereby positioning all the major players according to their geographic presence, market attractiveness and recent key developments. The complete Smart Healthcare Product market estimates are the result of our in-depth secondary research, primary interviews and in-house expert panel reviews. These market estimates have been analyzed by taking into account the impact of different political, social, economic, technological, and legal factors along with the current market dynamics affecting the smart healthcare product market growth.Epic Systems Corporation, Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc., eClinicalWorks, CapsoVision, Inc. Medtronic, Olympus Corporation, Becton Dickinson and Company, Terumo Corporation, Stanley Healthcare, and TAGSYS are some of the major players operating in the global Smart Healthcare Products market, which have been profiled in this study. Details such as financials, business strategies, recent developments, and other such strategic information pertaining to these players has been duly provided as part of company profiling.Smart Healthcare Products MarketBy Product Type- Smart Syringes- Smart Pills- Smart RFID Cabinets- Electronic Health RecordBy Industry Vertical- Health Data Storage and Exchange- Monitoring and Treatment- Inventory ManagementBy Geography- North America- Europe- Latin America- APAC- Middle East and AfricaMake 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 Satellite M2M Connections And Services Market To Grow At A CAGR Of 14.54% And 9.95% Respectively During The Period 2016-2020

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Researchmoz added Most up-to-date research on "Global Satellite M2M Connections and Services Market 2016-2020" to its huge collection of research reports.Satellite M2M technology enables communication of data or information between electronic devices with the help of satellite networks. Satellite M2M is widely adopted in regions where cellular networks are not available, or their reach is limited. Oil and gas firms, enterprises, and government organizations worldwide are adopting satellite M2M due to its wide reach and low cost. Satellite M2M can also fulfill several applications across transportation and logistics, oil and gas, mining, maritime, agriculture, manufacturing, energy and utilities, healthcare, and public sectors. Cellular M2M can provide video surveillance, remote diagnostics of vehicles, fleet management, and asset tracking. Satellite M2M helps industries enhance their operational efficiency and productivity by reducing their overall Capex.Technavios analysts forecast the global satellite M2M connections and services market to grow at a CAGR of 14.54% and 9.95% respectively during the period 2016-2020.To Get Sample Copy of Report visit @Covered in this reportThe report covers the present scenario and the growth prospects of the global satellite M2M connections and services market for 2016-2020. To calculate the market size, the report considers the revenue generated from equipment, retail services, value-added services, and revenue from implementation of satellite M2M.The market is divided into the following segments based on geography:AmericasAPACEMEAGlobal Satellite M2M Connections and Services Market 2016-2020, 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 vendorsGlobalstarIridium CommunicationsKoreORBCOMMRogers CommunicationsOther prominent vendorsApplied Satellite TechnologyDigi InternationalGemaltoHughes Network SystemNupoint SystemsOracleQuake GlobalSprintTeliasoneraTelitMarket driverIncreasing adoption of satellite communication for disaster managementFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket challengeLack of standardization and policy-related issuesFor a full, detailed list, view our reportMarket trendIncreased use of satellite M2M for event-based SCADA applicationsFor a full, detailed list, view our reportKey questions answered in this reportWhat will the market size be in 2020 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?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 @
Malt Ingredients Market Size, Analysis, and Forecast Report 2015-2025

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Malting is the process of converting cereal grains like barley, wheat and others into malt which can be used in brewing, distilling and in food manufacturing. The cereal grains are germinated by soaking in water then allow to sprout and dried with hot air. During malting process grain starches are converted in simple sugars such as glucose and fructose. Malt ingredients are used in food industry as a food additives which imparts desirable flavor and color to finished product and it helps to modify or stabilize texture of food & beverages. Increasing new food product development to incorporate natural ingredients, and increasing demand for all natural food products is creating opportunities for malt ingredient market.Malt Ingredients Market: SegmentationMalt ingredients market is segmented on the basis of sources as barley, wheat and others (rye). Barley is commonly used raw material in malting process. Wheat grains are used for malting as it contains higher amount of proteins Malt ingredients markets is segmented on the basis of grade as special grade and standard grade malts (are also known as base malts). Out of these two types base malts have diastatic power to convert their starches while specialty malts have little diastatic power, and it contributes flavor, color to the final product. On the basis of types malt ingredients market is further segmented as dry malt, liquid malt, flour and others (flakes). Dry malt powder is used in bakery and powder premixes manufacturing. Liquid malts are used in syrup and ice cream toppings. Flakes are used as bakery toppings. The malt ingredients market is also segmented on the basis of end use applications as food products, bakery and confectionary products, dairy and frozen products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and others (pharmaceutical and animal feed).Request Report Sample@Malt Ingredients Market: Region-wise OutlookMalt ingredients market can be segmented on the basis of region includes North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific except Japan, Japan and Middle East and Africa. The Malt ingredients market is expected to witness vigorous growth through 2025 due to the rising demand for ready-to-eat and packaged food preferences of consumer. With increasing packaged food consumption and non-alcoholic beer consumption, malt ingredient market is expected to grow at healthy rate. Europe is expected to dominate the market in forecast period. Asia-Pacific and Middle East and Africa will show the robust growth due to growing demand for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. New product development in dairy premixes and malt based drinks for kids is motivational factor for malt ingredient market growth.Malt Ingredients Market: DriversThe increasing population globally has a strong impact on the food supply. Health conscious consumers are looking for clean label, food quality and safety. Increase in consumption of malt beer and malt based nutritional dairy products is key driver for malt ingredients market. Malt ingredients are used in bakery and confectionery products for dwell purpose as it imparts colour and flavor to finished products.Visit For TOC@Malt Ingredients Market: Key PlayersThe key international players operating in malt ingredients market includes Axereal, Cargill Incorporated, Crisp Malting Group, Global Malt GmbH & Co. Kg, Graincrop Limited, Ireks GmbH, Malteurop Group, Muntons PLC. Simpsons Malt Ltd, Soufflet GroupAbout 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:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Global Burn Care Market 2017 Risk Analysis, Competitor Analysis, Choice Modelling, Trends and Forecast by 2022

Orbis Research

http://www.orbisresearch.com/reports/index/burn-care-market-by-product-advanced-biologics-traditional-by-depth-by-end-users-and-by-region-global-industry-analysis-size-share-growth-trends-and-forecasts-2016-2021

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The Global Burn Care Market was worth $1.67 billion in 2016 and estimated to reach $2.17 billion by the end of 2021 with a growing potential of 6.82%. Burns are a global public health problem, accounting for an estimated 265 000 deaths annually. The majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries and almost half occur in the WHO South-East Asia Region.Browse the report:In many developed countries, burn death rates have been declining, and the rate of child deaths from burns is currently over 7 times higher in developing and poor countries than in developed countries. Burn injuries continue to cause sickness and mortality globally. Despite collaborations and preventative measures, there are still many cases reported in many countries. The treatment of these patients is often protracted and requires extensive resources. The adequate revival of these patients coupled with scrupulous wound care can have a large impact on their outcome.The Major factors that attribute to the growth of the Market is due to rising incidence of burns, growing expenditure in Healthcare, favourable government initiatives, expanding awareness regarding treatment options. However, increasing cost of burn care treatments and products are the major factors that are challenging the growth of the market. The Burn Care market was dominated by North America, followed by Europe, Asia-Pacific. Increasing demand for Biologics in U.S are driving the growth in North America.Request a sample of the report:The Global Burn Care Market is broadly categorized based on Products (Advanced dressings, Biologics, Traditional). Among these Advanced dressings is projected to account a largest share in the market while biologics is expected to witness highest growth in CAGR during the forecast period. Based on extent of damage (Minor, Superficial Partial Thickness, deep partial thickness burn), based on End users (Hospitals, Clinics and Home care). The hospital segment accounts to largest share in the market with increasing incidence of burn injuries and also due to advancement in burn care products and treatments. On the basis of geography, the global burn care market is analysed under various regions namely North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle east and Africa.Some of the major companies dominating the global burn care market, by their products and services include Smith & Nephew plc (U.K.), Acelity L.P (U.S.), 3M Company (U.S.), Molnlycke Health Care (Sweden), Derma Sciences Inc.(U.S.), Medtronic (Ireland), Convatec Inc (U.K.), Coloplast A/S (Denmark).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 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
Interactive Projector Market Global Industry Analysis, size, share and Forecast 2015-2025

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Interactive projector is an interactive institutional tool, which makes any surface interactive. It eliminates the need of any type of special screen, rather it can display images on white board, projector screen or on wall directly. It also allows user to control the projection activities with the help of pen, stylus or with his own finger. Interactive projectors makes learning more interactive, fun and therefore more productive. Interactive Projector offers various advantages such as real time learning needs, efficient user interaction, easy integration of materials, multi touch collaboration, multi-user standards and PC-free interactivity.Interactive Projector Market: Drivers and RestraintsWorldwide popularity of interactive projector is increasing. Global interactive projector market is expected to grow rapidly during the period of forecast. Factors which are driving the growth of global interactive projector market are increasing adoption of interactive projectors in class rooms and conference rooms, increasing government spending on education sector, increasing adoption of e-learning & virtual learning and growing technological advancement across various application segments. On the other hand, factors which are restraining the growth of global interactive projector market are high installation cost and lack of awareness are the few factors restraining the growth of global interactive projector market. However, increasing application specific solutions expected to create great opportunity for global interactive projector market.Request Report Sample@Interactive Projector Market: SegmentationGlobal interactive projector market is segmented on the basis of product type and applications. By product type the global interactive projector market can be segmented into short throw projector, flexible projector, multi-purpose projectors and others. Out of all these types, short throw projectors are in great demand as it eliminates various problems associated with interactive system such as intrusive footprint and eye glare.On the basis of application, the global interactive projector market can be segmented into various sectors such as government, education and corporate. Out of all these application, education sector dominates the global interactive projector market. Increasing adoption of advanced technology into education sector, growing government spending & support are some of the factors responsible for this growth. Despite corporate sectors contribution to total interactive projector market anticipated to be small, the sector is expected to exhibit highest growth rate during the period of forecast. Market Players are focusing on developing specific solution for corporates.Interactive Projector Market: Region wise outlookGlobal interactive projector market can be segmented into seven regions which includes, North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific (excluding Japan), Japan as a separate region and Middle East and Africa. Out of all these regions, present global interactive projector market is dominated by North America and Western Europe Region in terms of high usage rate of interactive projectors. High technological developments in countries such as U.S. and UK, consumer awareness and increasing government funding and support to education sectors are some of the factors driving the growth of interactive projectors in North America & Western Europe. Furthermore, Asia-pacific region is expected to grow rapidly during the period of forecast due to increasing consumer awareness, gradual increase in government spending on education sector and development of education sector. However, price will play important role in this price sensitive region.Visit For TOC@Interactive Projector Market: Key PlayersKey players in global interactive projector market are Epson America, Inc., ProVision Technologies, SMART Technologies, Texas Instruments Incorporated, Mitsubishi Electric Visual and Imaging Systems, InFocus Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc., BenQ Corporation, Hitachi, Ltd., Touchjet, Inc. and CASIO AMERICA INC. among others. Key market players are focusing more on application specific requirements in order to increase the market share among different application segments. They are also concentrating more on product development in order to be competitive into market.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:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
Forecast On Macadamia Market Global Industry Analysis and Trends till 2026

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Macadamia nut was introduced in the early 1960s to the Kenyan highlands from Australia. Macadamia is a member of the family Proteaceae, native to Australia. Australia and Hawaii are the major producing areas of macadamia with others including eastern and southern Africa, and Central and Latin America. Several species of macadamia exist in Australia but only two species such as M. tetraphylla and Macadamia integrifolia and their hybrids are grown commercially. Production of macadamia nuts in Australia is mainly in eastern shore of Australia (northern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland). Currently, Hawaii is the largest producer of global macadamia, accounting for around 70 percent of total macadamia production worldwide followed by Australia, around 22 percent, rest is produced by other countries including Malawi, South Africa, Kenya, Guatemala, Mexico, California, Costa Rica, Brazil, New Zealand and China.Tree nuts include almond, cashew, hazelnut, pistachio, walnut, macadamia, and pecan. Currently, macadamia accounts for around only one percent among all the tree nuts available across the globe. Almond nut dominates the nut segment, accounting for around 34 percent. Increasing health claims for macadamia have witnessed a surge in recent years, which if succeeded is expected to increase the consumption of macadamia nuts among consumers.Request Report Sample@Global Macadamia Market Segmentation:On the basis of application the global macadamia market is broadly segmented into food industry, and cosmetics industry. In food industry macadamia is widely used in confectionaries including chocolate bar, chocolate covered candy, ice cream and other baking products. In cosmetics industry it is used in shampoos, sunscreens, soaps and others.Geographically, global macadamia market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, Japan and Middle East & Africa. Currently, North America and Western Europe account for major market share for macadamia however, Asia Pacific excluding Japan is expected to grow significantly in the forecasted years.Global Macadamia Market Dynamics:Owing to increasing variety of applications of macadamia, various workshop are taking places in order to increase the international trade for macadamia and since capitalise the growing demand for macadamia. Adoption of macadamia in chocolate and ice cream among consumers is expected to drive the demand for global macadamia in the near future. The biggest restraint for macadamia market is increasing crop losses due to immature nuts and moldy / rotten nuts. The crop losses due to these type of nuts accounts for around 50 percent of the total macadamia wastage globally. Thereby, reducing inclination of crop growers for macadamia and thus, hampering the market growth.There is a high opportunity to increase the market share of macadamia in terms of revenue across countries such as Mexico, China, South Africa and others. Companies are investing in these countries through promotional activities in order to increase the footprint of macadamia worldwide.Visit For TOC@Global Macadamia Market Key Players:Some of the key players operating in the global macadamia market are Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp., Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company, MacFarms, Wondaree Macadamias, NAMBUCCA MACNUTS Pty Ltd, Golden Macadamias, Royal Macadamia (Pty) Ltd., Kenya Nut Company Ltd. and MWT Foods Australia.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:616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018,Valley Cottage, NY 10989,United StatesT: +1-347-918-3531F: +1-845-579-5705Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.comWebsite:
United States Gas Temporary Power Market : Fudesen, Verypower, Chenlong Power  Analysis, Growth and Forecast to 2022

Gas Temporary Power Market

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This report studies the Gas Temporary Power Market, Gas Temporary Power is essential in daily life. In many situations, a rental Gas Temporary Power is the best solution to secure that power supply. Gas Temporary Power is able to provide and secure power for various types of demand and markets, like utilities and miningRequest for sample Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Gas Temporary Power in United States market, to split the market based on manufacturers, states, type and application.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers:FudesenVerypowerChenlong PowerOthersMarket Segment by States, covering:CaliforniaTexasNew YorkFloridaIllinoisBrowse full Report @Market Segment by Type, covers:Natural GasMethane GasMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into:ConstructionOil & GasOthersThere are 17 Chapters to deeply display the United States Gas Temporary Power Market.Chapter 1, to describe Gas Temporary Power Introduction, product type and application, market overview, market analysis by States, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the manufacturers of Gas Temporary Power, with profile, main business, news, sales, price, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the United States market by States, covering California, New York, Texas, Illinois and Florida, with sales, price, revenue and market share of Gas Temporary Power, for each state, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5 and 6, to show the market by type and application, with sales, price, revenue, market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, to analyze the key States by Type and Application, covering California, New York, Texas, Illinois and Florida, with sales, revenue and market share by types and applications;Chapter 12, Gas Temporary Power market forecast, by States, type and application, with sales, price, revenue and growth rate forecast, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, to analyze the manufacturing cost, key raw materials and manufacturing process etc.Chapter 14, to analyze the industrial chain, sourcing strategy and downstream end users (buyers);Chapter 15, to describe sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers etc.Chapter 16 and 17, to describe Gas Temporary Power Research Findings and Conclusion, Appendix, methodology and data source.Check for Discount @Some points from TOC:-1 Market Overview1.1 Gas Temporary Power Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Natural Gas1.2.2 Methane Gas1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Construction1.3.2 Oil & Gas1.3.3 Others1.4 Market Analysis by States1.4.1 California Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.2 Texas Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 New York Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Florida Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Illinois Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Market Dynamics1.5.1 Market Opportunities1.5.2 Market Risk1.5.3 Market Driving Force2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 Fudesen2.1.1 Profile2.1.2 Gas Temporary Power Type and Applications..ContinuedEnquiry before Buying @About Global Info Reports:GIR Market Research is a company that simplifies how analysts and decision makers get industry data for their business. Our unique colossal technology has been developed to offer refined search capabilities designed to exploit the long tail of free market research whilst eliminating irrelevant results. GIR Market Research is the collection of market intelligence products and services on the Web. We offer reports and update our collection daily to provide you with instant online access to the worlds most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends.Contact us:+1-888-376-9998 (US)Email- sales@globalinforeports.comWeb-Blogs-
Qatar's diplomatic isolation could "last years", a United Arab Emirates minister said Monday, accusing the Gulf state of "supporting jihadists".

"We do not want to escalate, we want to isolate," state minister for foreign affairs Anwar Gargash told journalists during a visit to Paris, adding that Qatar must abandon its support for "extremist Islamists" before a solution can be brokered.

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Thoughtful Minds pleased to add website of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in its portfolio

Thoughtful Minds pleased to add website of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in its portfolio

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www.thoughtfulminds.org

June 19, 2017, Jaipur, India: With quite a good presence in Middle East, Thoughtful Minds, the renowned IT company in India is again in news and this time the reason is not small. Yes, it has added another feather in its cap by including the name of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in its portfolio.Morocco itself is a great travel destination and working for something related to it is more like experiencing it in person. The staff members while working on this project discovered few destinations that are beyond imagination. Perhaps this is the most interesting part that compels Thoughtful Minds and its team members to go one step beyond and explore something challenging.When asked Mr. Swadesh Rohilla, the CEO of the company about the project, he said, Thoughtful Minds has a number of clients from overseas market and working for them is always like exploring something new, reading its minute details and then coming out with something that is interesting, worth promoting and appreciation. This project is even more important as it is not representing any individual or a company rather a destination that requires no introduction. We are fortunate enough to got this project and would love to have even more projects similar to this in the future.Thoughtful Minds is more than 11 years old website development , content writing and digital marketing company based in Jaipur, India with quite a different reputation of being the most reliable IT company in India. While talking about its specializations, it is worth mentioning, it is among the top most digital marketing companies in India that hold the strongest portfolio. In addition to that, it has the best portfolio for content writing services in India that makes it stand apart from the rest.The company is known for increasing online presence, creating brand awareness and even helping companies get footfall in a number of events or exhibitions like STONE MART, ADIPEC, ELECRAMA and so on. These names are quite a few and there are lot many to introduce this company.Thoughtful Minds also has the largest community for content writers in India() on Google and that explains its contribution in the world of content. Along with the result oriented digital marketing services that it offers, this company is also known for giving opportunities to fresh talent to enter the dynamic world of IT. The company from time to time calls for campus recruitments and even offer internship and training programs to help students understand corporate world and know what all is required to enter it. Company also offers reputation management that is simply second to none. There are a number of International brands in this segment and the name of Netmarkers is worth mentioning here. Thoughtful Minds is now working on creating brand awareness and let more and more get benefited with its quality services, although it is surely going to take some time!Thoughtful Minds, the leading IT Company in India has made it again and added another big name in its portfolio, the Embassy of Morocco. The company has become one stop destination providing complete business modal.LG, 14-20, Geejgarh Tower, Civil Lines, Hawa sadak Road, Jaipur- 302006
United States Spirulina Market : DIC, Cyanotech, Parry Nutraceuticals, Hydrolina Biotech - Analysis, Outlook and Forecast to 2022

Spirulina Market

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http://www.globalinforeports.com/report/united-states-spirulina-market-by-manufacturers-states-type-and-application-forecast-to-2022

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Spirulina is a microscopic spiral shaped blue-green vegetable algae which grows in mineral-rich freshwater and saltwater sources. It provides an abundance of protein, vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, and antioxidants.Request for sample Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Spirulina in United States market, to split the market based on manufacturers, states, type and application.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers: DIC Cyanotech Parry Nutraceuticals Hydrolina Biotech King Dnarmsa CBN Green-A Spirin Chenghai Bao ER Shenliu SBD nad Many OthersMarket Segment by States, covering: California Texas New York Florida IllinoisBrowse full Report @Market Segment by Type, covers: Spirulina Powder Spirulina Tablet Spirulina ExtractsMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided into: Health Products Feed OthersThere are 17 Chapters to deeply display the United States Spirulina Market.Chapter 1, to describe Spirulina Introduction, product type and application, market overview, market analysis by States, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the manufacturers of Spirulina, with profile, main business, news, sales, price, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the United States market by States, covering California, New York, Texas, Illinois and Florida, with sales, price, revenue and market share of Spirulina, for each state, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5 and 6, to show the market by type and application, with sales, price, revenue, market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, to analyze the key States by Type and Application, covering California, New York, Texas, Illinois and Florida, with sales, revenue and market share by types and applications;Chapter 12, Spirulina market forecast, by States, type and application, with sales, price, revenue and growth rate forecast, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, to analyze the manufacturing cost, key raw materials and manufacturing process etc.Chapter 14, to analyze the industrial chain, sourcing strategy and downstream end users (buyers);Chapter 15, to describe sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers etc.Chapter 16 and 17, to describe Spirulina Research Findings and Conclusion, Appendix, methodology and data source.Check for Discount @Some points from TOC:-1 Market Overview1.1 Spirulina Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Spirulina Powder1.2.2 Spirulina Tablet1.2.3 Spirulina Extracts1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Health Products1.3.2 Feed1.3.3 Others1.4 Market Analysis by States1.4.1 California Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.2 Texas Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 New York Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 Florida Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 Illinois Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 Market Dynamics1.5.1 Market Opportunities1.5.2 Market Risk1.5.3 Market Driving Force2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 DIC2.1.1 Profile2.1.2 Spirulina Type and Applications..ContinuedEnquiry before Buying @About Global Info Reports:GIR Market Research is a company that simplifies how analysts and decision makers get industry data for their business. Our unique colossal technology has been developed to offer refined search capabilities designed to exploit the long tail of free market research whilst eliminating irrelevant results. GIR Market Research is the collection of market intelligence products and services on the Web. We offer reports and update our collection daily to provide you with instant online access to the worlds most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends.Contact us:+1-888-376-9998 (US)Email- sales@globalinforeports.comWeb-Blogs-
Cards and Payments Market: The Overview of the Mexico Industry Outlook 2020

Orbis Research

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Orbis Research Market brilliance released a new research report of 58 pages on title The Cards and Payments Industry in Mexico: Emerging trends and opportunities to 2020 with detailed analysis, forecast and strategies. The study covers important players such as BBVA Bancomer, BanCoppel, Citibanamex, Banorte, etc.GlobalDatas "The Cards and Payments Industry in Mexico: Emerging trends and opportunities to 2020" report provides detailed analysis of market trends in the Mexican cards and payments industry. It provides values and volumes for a number of key performance indicators in the industry, including credit transfers, cheques, direct debits, payment cards and cash during the review period (2012-2016).Request a sample of this report @Companies Mentioned:BBVA BancomerBanCoppelCitibanamexBanorteBanco SantanderInbursaVisaMastercardCarnetAmerican ExpressThe report also analyzes various payment card markets operating in the industry, and provides detailed information on the number of cards in circulation, transaction values and volumes during the review period and over the forecast period (2016-2020). It also offers information on the country's competitive landscape, including the market shares of issuers and schemes.The report brings together GlobalDatas research, modeling, and analysis expertise to allow banks and card issuers to identify segment dynamics and competitive advantages. The report also covers details of regulatory policy and recent changes in the regulatory structure.The report provides top-level market analysis, information and insights into the Mexican cards and payments industry, including -- Current and forecast values for each market in the Mexican cards and payments industry, including debit, credit and charge cards.- Detailed insights into payment instruments including credit transfers, cheques, cash, direct debits, and payment cards. It also, includes an overview of the country's key alternative payment instruments.- E-commerce market analysis and payment methods.- Analysis of various market drivers and regulations governing the Mexican cards and payments industry.- Detailed analysis of strategies adopted by banks and other institutions to market debit, credit and charge cards.Reasons to buy- Make strategic business decisions, using top-level historic and forecast market data, related to the Mexican cards and payments industry and each market within it.- Understand the key market trends and growth opportunities in the Mexican cards and payments industry.- Assess the competitive dynamics in the Mexican cards and payments industry.- Gain insights into marketing strategies used for various card types in Mexico.- Gain insights into key regulations governing the Mexican cards and payments industry.Browse the complete report @Scope- To combat fraudulent payment activities in Mexico, banks and scheme providers are taking a number of measures, with one example being Mastercards introduction of the Identity Check Mobile solution in November 2016. The solution allows card holders to verify online payment by scanning their fingerprint or taking a selfie. Unlike existing identity verification methods - which take shoppers away from a merchants website or mobile app and often require them to remember and enter a password - Mastercard Identity Check Mobile verifies the user via technologies such as biometrics and one-time passwords. Earlier in January 2015, Oberthur Technologies (OT) partnered with PROSA, a provider of payment processing services, to launch OT Motion Code technology. With Motion Code, the cards CVV code is replaced with a mini-screen on which the CVV code changes automatically at regular intervals, making it impossible for fraudsters to misuse.- The uptake of alternative payments is gradually increasing in Mexico, with banks and payment solutions providers launching products and services in the market. In partnership with Mastercard, Banamex launched its digital wallet, Banamex Wallet, in February 2016. The Android-compatible mobile app can be used to make contactless m-payments, which are authorized by a four-digit PIN. Users can add all Mastercard-branded credit cards to the wallet. Earlier in June 2014, BBVA Bancomer launched its mobile wallet BBVA Wallet in Mexico. The wallet allows secure NFC payments at merchant locations that accept contactless payments. Available on phones with Android 4.4 and above, other phones can use it through NFC stickers.- To further enhance financial inclusion, Mexico joined the UN-based Better Than Cash Alliance in June 2016. The move comes after the government introduced a national policy on financial inclusion to promote the use of electronic payments across the country and reduce the dependence on cash. With 86% of the 124.6 million population owning mobile phones, Better Than Cash Alliance aims to harness the popularity of mobile phones for digital payments. Earlier in February 2016, PROSA partnered with digital solutions provider Gemalto to offer m-payment services to its partner banks, which include 95% of credit, debit, and prepaid card issuers in the country. Gemaltos Trusted Service Hub enables banks to offer their own mobile wallets using host card emulation technology, while PROSA is responsible for mobile wallet development, card holder identification and verification, card digitization, and security.Reasons to buy- Make strategic business decisions, using top-level historic and forecast market data, related to the Mexican cards and payments industry and each market within it.- Understand the key market trends and growth opportunities in the Mexican cards and payments industry.- Assess the competitive dynamics in the Mexican cards and payments industry.- Gain insights into marketing strategies used for various card types in Mexico.- Gain insights into key regulations governing the Mexican cards and payments industry.Buy a report @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; +912064101019Email ID: sales@orbisresearch.com
Global Baby Rompers Market 2017 Top Manufacturers - Balabala, Mothercare, Gymboree, Nike, Catimini, Nissen

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To begin with, the report defines the Baby Rompers market and segments it based on the most important dynamics, such as applications, geographical/regional markets, and competitive scenario. Macroeconomic and microeconomic factors environments that currently prevail and also those that are projected to emerge are covered in this report.Download Free Sample Report @Geographically, this report is segmented into several key Regions, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), market share and growth rate of Baby Rompers in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast), coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaGlobal Baby Rompers market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer,Covering Top PlayersCartersGAPMothercareH&MGymboreeMIKI HOUSEBalabalaJACADITongtaiNissenCatiminiNikeBOBDOGKARA BEARBenettonSTJINFALANCYName ItNishimatsuyaLes EnphantsPurcottonDadidaGebituAnnilHonghuanglanJoynCleonGoodbabyPepcoDD-catAccess Full Report @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoWithout Trouser-legsHalf Trouser-legsLong Trouser-legsOn 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 Baby Rompers for each application, includingOnline ShopBrand OutletsBaby Products StoreShopping MallOthersIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.About Fior MarketsFior Markets is a leading market intelligence company that sells reports of top publishers in the technology industry.Our extensive research reports cover detailed market assessments that include major technological improvements in the industry. Fior Markets also specializes in analyzing hi-tech systems and current processing systems in its expertise.We have a team of experts that compile precise research reports and actively advise top companies to improve their existing processes. Our experts have extensive experience in the topics that they cover.Fior Markets provides you the full spectrum of services related to market research, and corroborate with the clients to increase the revenue stream, and address process gaps.Contact UsMark StoneSales ManagerOffice-108, Sanskriti AspirationsBaner Road, Pune,MH 411045IndiaPhone: (201) 465-4211Email: sales@fiormarkets.comWeb:Blog:
Coil Coatings Market - Global Industry Insights, Trends, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 20162024

Coil Coatings Market

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https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/ongoing-insight/coil-coatings-market-288

Coil coating is a continuous and automated process for coating metals before building into end products. The steel or aluminum substrate is delivered from the rolling mills in coil form. The metal coil is placed at the beginning of the coating line and in a continuous process at 700 feet per minute the coil is unwound, pre-treated, pre-cleaned, pre-primed, and pre-painted. Coil coating provides for controls that are virtually not possible to attain with other painting processes. A flat sheet is used in coating process as it allows for mechanical cleaning with the spray cleaning. The flat sheet also allows excellent control of coating weights for the pretreatment as well as the paint depending upon the equipment and the paint system being applied.Coil coatings provide durable surfaces, beautiful topcoats, innovative applications, cost savings and green benefits as compared to other substrates and coating options. Steps involved in coating process are stitching the strip to the previous coil, cleaning the strip, power brushing, pre-treating with chemicals, drying the strip, applying primer on one or both sides, curing (up to 60 seconds), cooling the strip, top coating on one or both sides, second curing, cooling down to room temperature, and finally the rewinding of the coated coil.Request a sample copy of this report:Coil Coatings Market TaxonomyOn the basis of product type, the global market is classified into:PlastisolsPolyurethane (PU)PolyesterPolyvinylidine Fluorides (PVDF)Silicone Modified PolyesterOn the basis of application, the global market is classified into:AutomobileConstructionTransportationConsumer goodsCoil coatings are used in the lighting industry in decorative details and lighting fixtures in office buildings, educational institutions, retail spaces, hospitals, factories, government buildings and warehouses. They are also used in film laminate for applications which require a very high specular reflectance or mirror-like reflection, such as fluorescent light fixtures, solar tubes, and reflectors. Coil coatings are also used as a sound dampening solution for metal roofing. The principal application segments for coil coatings are steel and aluminium are among. Increasing steel and aluminium demand in construction and transportation industries is expected to promote coil coatings market.Access Table of Content (TOC) of the report:Coil Coatings Market Outlook  Increasing Demand for Lightweight Materials to be the Major Market DriverAsia Pacific and North America are expected to be the most potential markets for Coil Coatings manufacturers. Asia Pacific is projected to witness relatively high growth in terms of value over the forecast period. This is mainly attributed to the anticipated growth in various end use industries such as automotive and construction, especially in developing countries such as China and India. According to IBEF, the Indian automotive industry is expected to be valued at US$ 300 billion by 2026. This trend is expected to be followed over the forecast period. India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) is a Trust established by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce in collaboration with the Government of India with the purpose of promoting and creating international awareness of goods manufactured in India.Need for cost effective and durable coatings are firing the demand for coil coatings, especially in Asia Pacific and Middle East regions. However, the substitution of metals by plastics is one of the restraining factors for the coil coatings market. Expansions and acquisitions is a key strategy adopted by the major players. AkzoNobel, a leading coatings and paints manufacturer inaugurated a new coatings plant in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. With an investment of US$ 46.5 million (INR 3 crore), the new facility has added 6000 kl of annual production in coatings. This will help the company to penetrate the Asia Pacific market and increase supply chain. Some of the major companies operating in the coil coatings industry include BASF SE, Henkel AG & Company, DuPont, The Beckers Group, Kansai Paint Chemical Limited, AkzoNobel, PPG Industries Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company, and Wacker Chemie AG.View this full report:About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr.ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email:sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Concrete Floor Coatings Market - Canada Industry Analysis, Trends, and Forecast 2025

Concrete Floor Coatings Market

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The Canada concrete floor coatings market features a highly consolidated competitive landscape, with the top five contributors to the market holding a substantial 70% of the overall market in 2016, says Transparency Market Research in a recent report. Strong growth of these leading companies, namely The Sherwin Williams Company, PPG Industries Inc., BASF SE, RPM International Inc., and Sika AG, is largely attributed to their continual efforts towards attaining technological expertise and introducing innovative products to the market.Expanding their geographical reach with the help of strategic acquisitions and mergers is one of the key growth strategies adopted by companies in the market to strengthen their hold. An instance is BASF SEs recent acquisition. In December 2016, the company acquired Chemtell Groups surface treatment business from Albemarle Corp. in Charlotte, North Carolina to improve its coatings portfolio as well as its position as a complete solutions provider to global customers.Browse Market Research Report @Transparency Market Research estimates that the Canada concrete floor coatings market will expand at a healthy 5.2% CAGR from 2017 to 2025, rising from a valuation of US$100.8 mn in 2016 to US$158.0 mn in 2025.Epoxy Coatings to Keep Contributing Massive Chunk of Revenue to Canada Concrete Floor Coatings MarketFrom a geographical standpoint, the Ontario concrete floor coatings market accounted for more than 30% of the Canada concrete floor coatings market in 2016. Rising urbanization, increasing disposable income and increasing demand for residential projects have been the prominent factors driving the market in Ontario and are expected to help retain the province its leading stance in the overall market in the next few years as well. In terms of product type, the segment of epoxy coatings accounted for a massive 60% of the overall market in 2016. The segment will continue to account for a massive share in the Canada concrete floor coatings market over the forecast period as well, but is expected to lose to the segment of polyaspartics in terms of growth rate over the forecast period.Enter your information below to receive a sample copy of this report @Rising Demand from Thriving Construction Sector to Drive MarketStrict environmental regulations in Canada are expected to have a significant influence on the way the Canada market for concrete floor coatings develops in the next few years. In its transition to becoming an environmentally more sensitive country, the government of Canada has put forward regulations to limit harmful emission of VOCs from various paints and coatings. Almost all provinces in the country have been experiencing reduction in emissions since the last 10 years. Rise in demand from the blooming construction industry is another key factor driving the overall development of the Canada concrete floor coatings market.Government programs such as Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) and New Building Canada Plan (NBCP) are projected to propel the construction industry in Canada. This, in turn, is anticipated to augment the market for concrete floor coatings. Additionally, various government efforts to enhance the residential and public infrastructure are likely to contribute to the growth of the market. Upcoming projects of real estate, revitalization of bridges, airport facility expansion, construction of hydroelectric dams, and construction of LNG facilities are expected to augment the demand for concrete floor coatings in Canada in the near future.About Us:-Transparency Market Research 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.We are privileged with highly experienced team of Analysts, Researchers and Consultants, who 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 Us:-Transparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit Blog:
cellZscope2 - Next Generation Impedance-Based Cell Monitoring

cellZscope2

nanoAnalytics has launched the next generation of impedance-based cell monitoring systems, the cellZscope2. Today, across several hundred research laboratories and peer-reviewed publications worldwide, investigators have adopted the cellZscope as the new technological standard bearer and preferred market leader.As the original innovator of label-free automated monitoring of barrier forming cells grown in standard cell culture inserts, nanoAnalytics has designed the new cellZscope2 with the same precision engineering and highest quality materials as the original cellZscope.The main features include:- Automated TEER measuring system compatible with standard cell culture inserts- New electronics with improved time resolution and sensitivity (< 5 Ohmcm)- Combination of different well-sizes and insert types possible- New docking station ensures hassle-free handling- No device-specific consumables required- New design makes the system extremely easy to cleanIf you are interested in further information about our instruments for label-free and automated monitoring of endothelial and epithelial cells, please don't hesitate to contact us or our distributors.nanoAnalytics was founded in 2001. Our team has extensive experience in the field of device development. Based on this know-how novel analytical methods and techniques are developed and brought to market as user-friendly instruments.The focus is on the development of sophisticated laboratory instruments for cell biology. We are dedicated to innovative instrumentation and constantly strive to transfer the latest technology and scientific results into our products. Precision, reliability and ease of use are the driving forces behind our instrument innovations.nanoAnalytics GmbHHeisenbergstrae 1148149 MunsterDeutschlandT +49.(0)251.53406300F +49.(0)251.53406310info@nanoanalytics.de
Near Patient Molecular Solution Market - Global Industry Insights, Trends and Opportunity Analysis, 2016-2024

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Near Patient Molecular Solution MarketNear patient molecular solution, also called point-of-care diagnosis, is a technology that helps diagnose and monitor health at the convenience of the patient. There are various innovations in healthcare such as basic health monitoring smartphone apps, wearable devices, and biosensors, which provide ease to patient in monitoring their health. The motive is to provide patients with easy access to testing solutions, with quick turnaround time and accurate results as opposed to that offered by conventional lab-based tests.Increasing incidence of diseases such as cardiac disorders and diabetes in developing countries, growing preference for home-based point-of-care devices, advancements in technology, and wide availability of easy to use devices are spurring growth of the near patient molecular solution market. According to the institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), the number of deaths due to cardiovascular diseases worldwide increased by 41% between 1990 and 2013, from 12.3 million to 17.3 million deaths. South Asia experienced the largest increase in total deaths, with 1.8 million more deaths in 2013 than in 1990an alarming increase of 97%.Request Sample Copy of Research @Due to increasing demand for point-of-care diagnosis, manufacturing companies are focusing on developing technologies that provide quick and accurate results, with small learning curve. However, shortage of skilled staff in using these devices is expected to restrain the growth of near patient molecular solution market to a certain extent.Near patient molecular solution market taxonomyOn the basis of technology, the near patient molecular solution market is segmented as follows:PCR based: Idylla is a real-time PCR-based molecular diagnostic system designed in such a way that physicians have fast access to highly reliable clinical molecular diagnostic information. Treatments become more targeted to individual patient through personalized medicine.Get Discount for First Time Buyers @Genetic Sequencing based: Platforms are available that enables genetic sequencing and analysis of DNA data at point of care with high accuracy. Rapid DNA analysis is expected to gain traction in the near future.Hybridization based: Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) molecular beacon probe is used to quantify 16SrRNA of specific populations in RNA extract of environmental samples.On the basis of application, the global near patient molecular solution market is segmented as infectious diseases testing kits, pregnancy and fertility kits, hematology testing kits, urinalysis testing kits, and glucose monitoring kits. Infectious disease kits are further sub-segmented into tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis, and malaria.Quick turnaround times of Near Patient Molecular Solutions a boon for Hospitals and Private ClinicsEnd users of near patient molecular solution or POC devices include hospitals, homecare, research laboratories and diagnostic laboratories. Use of near patient molecular solutions provides fast turnaround times for physicians at outpatient care facilitiesNorth America Prominent Market, Asia High Potential RegionNorth America is a potential market for molecular diagnostics kits used in the testing of infectious diseases. This is due to technological advancements in molecular diagnostic tools, high prevalence of infectious diseases, high patient awareness, and faster adoption of these devices in the region. The near patient molecular solution market in Asia is projected to witness rapid growth due to rampant research and development activities and growing awareness among the populace about infectious diseases and their diagnostic procedures. Moreover, increase in population and growing disposable income in developing countries such as India and China are expected to boost growth of the near patient molecular solution market in the near future.Browse Market Research Report @Global players involved in near patient molecular solution marketMajor companies operating in the global molecular diagnostics include Abbott Laboratories, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Siemens AG, Veridex, LLC, Luminex Corp., and GenMark Diagnostics. Integration of advanced technologies in their product offerings is the major focus of companies competing in near patient molecular solution market. Abbotts i-STAT Alinity handheld blood testing platform received CE mark in November 2016. Siemens Healthineers acquired Conworx Technology to flesh out its point-of-care informatics capabilities in November 2016. This highly lucrative market is expected to witness fast growth in the near future, fueled by increasing R&D activities by major players in order to differentiate their offerings.About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Enhancement in Molecular Separation Technology to Drive Albumin Market to US$828.2 mn by 2020 at of 2.30% CAGR

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Global Albumin Market: SnapshotAlbumin has found wide applications as a robust pharmaceutical excipient in the stabilization of protein therapeutics. It is used as a drug carrier for microparticles and nanoparticles for sustained-release of injectable drugs. Albumin is also widely used in cell culture media as a supplement to bring about growth and productivity of cells and promote overall cell health. The extraordinary properties of albumin helps facilitate stabilization of drugs by lowering oxidation, aggregation, and surface absorption. It also lessens denaturation of the active ingredient that can result from the preparation of a low-dilution solution of the active ingredient.Read the Upcoming Trends and Global Analysis for Albumin Market at:Albumin has enjoyed considerable demand globally because of the higher stability of products having albumin as an excipient. Additionally, the improvement in molecular separation and protein purification technologies, coupled with rising popularity of recombinant albumin, is predicted to further fillip the global market for albumin in the near future. Countering the growth in the market is the stringent norms pertaining to the use of albumin and its high cost. Concerns over albumins effect on the human health is another factor deterring its uptake. Going forward, the increasing demand for customized, serum-free, and chemically defined media will also likely hamper the global albumin market.On account of considerable constraints, the global market for albumin is predicted to expand at a lackluster pace to attain a value of US$828.2 mn by 2020.Concerns about Cruelty to Animals Helps Stimulate Demand for Human Serum AlbuminThe global market for albumin can be segmented on the basis of application, type, and regions. Depending upon type, the key segments of the market are human serum albumin, bovine serum albumin, and recombinant albumin markets. Among them, the human serum albumin leads the overall market by grossing maximum revenue. In the years ahead, the market segment is expected to hold on to its dominant position to become worth US$557 mn by 2020. Its popularity has stemmed from the growing ethical concerns surrounding bovine serums which are extracted from bovine fetuses rather cruelly and also on account of the fact that some amount of impurities is still retained in the albumin excipient. While the human serum albumin segment holds a leading market share, the recombinant albumin segment is slated to see maximum growth in the upcoming years.Robust Pharmaceutical Industry Makes North America Dominant MarketBased on geography, the global market for albumin can be segmented into Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America, among them, dominates the market, powered largely by the U.S. Reasons for North Americas market leading position is the presence of a robust pharmaceutical industry  one of the primary end users of albumin  in the continent.Europe and Asia Pacific, which trail North America also contribute considerably to the global albumin market. China is a major market for albumin in the Asia Pacific region. Technological progress in formulation and delivery of drugs and enhanced access to technologies for the use of albumin in culture media present an opportunity to investors in developing economies, particularly in Asia Pacific. A rising number of manufacturers attempting to tap into the developing markets, the growing trend of contract research manufacturing, and the awareness in end-users about albumin as an excipient is predicted to stimulate market growth in the developing economies of Asia Pacific.Request a sample of this report:Overall, the global market for albumin is consolidated with a handful of manufacturers that are always on the lookout for a strategic acquisition or partnership to bolster their position.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:
Technological Innovations for Improved Surgical Accuracy Instrumental for Growth of Global Retinal Surgery Devices Market

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Retinal surgery devices are undergoing rapid technological advancement to establish an effective treatment platform for various retinal diseases. For instance, minimally invasive surgical instruments for the treatment of retinal diseases offer advantages such as lesser pain, minor scarring, quick recovery and reduced health care costs. Applications of retinal surgery devices across various ophthalmic conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane and macular hole are driving the growth of the global retinal surgery devices market. Furthermore, increasing geriatric population is fueling the growth of the market, as these individuals are reported to be at a higher risk of developing eye-related disorders.Read the Upcoming Trends and Global Analysis for Retinal Surgery Devices Market at:In terms of type of equipment, the retinal surgery devices market has been segmented into vitrectomy packs, vitrectomy machines, retinal laser equipment, microscopic illumination equipment, surgical instruments and others (retinal tamponades, sclera buckle, etc.) Vitrectomy packs accounted for the largest share of the retinal surgery devices market in terms of revenue in 2013. The segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. Factors that contribute to the high growth of vitrectomy packs segment are increased timesaving during and after the retinal surgery procedure by cutting back on the preparation time and the growing demand for single-use sterile packs of surgical instruments in order to cut costs through better inventory management.Based on applications, the retinal surgery devices market has been segmented into diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, macular hole and other applications that include eye infections and eye injuries. The diabetic retinopathy application segment held the largest share of the retinal surgery devices market in 2013 due to high prevalence of diabetic retinopathy across the globe and growing patient preference to opt for retinal surgery as their first treatment option for long-term benefit. However, the retinal detachment application segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period from 2014 to 2020. Factors attributed to the growth of the segment are increasing geriatric population and severe ophthalmic ailments affecting them such as formation of scar tissue on the retina and retinal tear. In addition, retinal surgery offers better results in the treatment of retinal detachment, which boosts the growth of the segment.Geographically, North America was the largest market for retinal surgery devices in 2013. Factors driving the growth of the retinal surgery devices market in North America are increasing prevalence of eye diseases among the geriatric and diabetic population. According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2014, around 26 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, and over 28% of diabetics aged 40 years and above have diabetic retinopathy and related diabetic eye diseases. Furthermore, technological developments in the field of ophthalmic surgical devices and increasing awareness of the population about surgical treatments of various retinal diseases are boosting the growth of the retinal surgery devices market in North America. However, Asia Pacific is likely to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Large population base, greater initiatives taken by the governments to promote health care and robust economic growth are the factors attributed to the high growth in the region. Moreover, improving consumer awareness about eye care and better disease management would drive the growth of the retinal surgery devices market in Asia Pacific.Request a sample of this report:The global retinal surgery devices market is fragmented due to the presence of well established as well as emerging companies in this field. The top companies operating in the retinal surgery devices market are Bausch + Lomb Incorporated, Synergetics, Inc., IRIDEX Corporation, Alcon, Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Leica Microsystems, NIDEK CO., LTD., Topcon Corporation, Lumenis, and Optos plc.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:
Russia's Defence Ministry said on Monday it would view as targets any flying objects over Syria in the areas of the country where its air forces operate, Russian news agencies reported.

The statement followed after a U.S. warplane shot down a Syrian army jet on Sunday in the southern Raqqa countryside, with Washington saying the jet had dropped bombs near U.S.-backed forces and Damascus saying the plane was downed while flying a mission against Islamic State militants.

The Defence Ministry also said that it was suspending its interaction with the United States on preventing air incidents over Syria from June 19, the agencies reported.

The U.S. did not use its communication channel with Russia ahead of the downing of the Syrian government warplane, the ministry was quoted as saying.

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Are You Impacted By The New EEO-1 Reporting?

https://www.edupliance.com/webinar/new-eeo-1-reporting-hr-guide-to-2017-compliance?utm_source=openpr&utm_medium=pr

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Edupliance announces webinar titled, New EEO-1 Reporting and Compliance 2017 that aims to update attendees on the significant changes the EEOC recently made to the EEO-1 survey, its impact on businesses, and what can be done now to prepare. The event goes LIVE on Thursday, June 29, from 01:00 PM to 02:30 PM, Eastern Time.One of the most important forms is the annual EEO-1 where you have to identify the race and gender of your employees by various employment categories. The EEOC uses EEO-1 data to support civil rights enforcement and to analyze employment patterns, such as the representation of female and minority workers within companies. The OFCCP uses the data to determine which company establishments to select for compliance reviews. Both federal agencies are responsible for enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws and the EEO-1 that you will be filing may serve as an indicator of whether either of these agencies should be taking a closer look at your employer's employment practices. The EEO-1 is a key piece of information in determining how well you are complying with anti-discrimination laws before federal auditors decide to take a closer look for themselves.The government compiles the information on the forms and may target an employer for an audit or investigation if the information suggests that you are not in compliance with discrimination laws. Now the government is seeking even more information  your compensation data!The 90-minute webinar will be conducted by Susan Desmond, an expert with over 30 years of representing management in all areas of labor and employment law. She is a principal with Jackson Lewis PC. A frequent author and speaker, Ms. Desmond is listed in Best Lawyers in America and has been named by Chambers USA as one of Americas leading business lawyers for labor and employment law. She is also listed in Mid-South Super Lawyers and Louisiana Super Lawyers.Webinar attendees will learn: The role of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the changes made by them to the EEO-1 for 2017 What a company must do in order to comply with the new EEO-1 The technical differences between the existing EEO-1 and the new EEO-1 Who has to file an EEO-1 report What has to be filed Obtaining the race and gender information you need Single establishment vs. multi-establishment employers How the OFCCP and the EEOC will use this information Focus on agency action regarding compensation discrimination Affirmative action as it relates to veterans and the disabled The financial risk created by the new reporting obligations and how to minimize themTo register for the webinar, visitEdupliance is a online information provider which offers webinars (Live and On-Demand), DVDs and downloadable resources that cover concurrent topics pertaining to various industries. With an expert panel of guest speakers, Edupliance brings state-of-the-art virtual technology solutions and industry-leading training sessions that are easy to learn, easily accessible and cater to people with varied interests. Edupliance is privately held and located in Hillsboro, Oregon. For more information, visitEdupliance101, 4660, NE Belknap Court, Hillsboro, Oregon 97124Ph: +1-(844) 810-1151Email: support@edupliance.com
Welcome to the DIM Ecosystem Initial Coin Offering, the Future of Equity on the Blockchain.

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The DIM Ecosystem is an evolution in cryptocurrency, it offers financial products andservices that allow the user to engage in a multitude of digital interactions.The DIM Ecosystem will allow individuals and businesses to conduct state-of-the-artencrypted transactions, send, receive, trade, manage company shares and assets inonline wallets. This will enable crypto stock trading and equity tokenization, oncomputers, mobile devices or via password-encrypted paper certificates.DIMCOIN will host a Pre-ICO (Initial Coin Offering) starting on the 1st of July, 2017 at12:00 CET until the 15th of July at 23:59 CET. The ICO will start on the 16th of July at00:00 CET until the 27th of August at 23:59 CET. Each 100 DIMCOIN purchased duringthe ICO will receive 1 DIM TOKEN. A total of 1.74 billion DIMCOIN, including the bonusesand the 10 million DIM TOKEN that will be allocated for purchase by investors during theICO.The DIM TOKEN gives investors holding more than 50 DIM TOKEN some unique andexclusive benefits within the DIM Ecosystem, which are voting rights and a percentage offees. The DIM TOKEN are an opportunity to earn lifetime recurring income based ontransactions.Phase 1 (Pre-ICO) starts with a 30% BONUS, resulting in 1$ = 100 DIMCOIN ($ 0.01 per 1DIMCOIN) + 30 DIMCOIN BONUS + 1 DIM TOKEN. The ICO bonus will decrease until theend of the DIM TOKEN sale. Once the first funding goal of $10 million has been reached,there will be a dynamic price offer of $0.02 up to $0.12 per DIMCOIN. After $30 millionhas been reached, the price offer will be locked at $0.12 until all allocated coins havebeen purchased. The DIMCOIN will be listed and traded on major cryptocurrencyexchanges around the world, starting in the 4th Quarter of 2017.DIMCOIN is built using NEM blockchain technology, which offers a unique two-tierdesign using node reputation, spam protection, and incentivised infrastructure throughsupernodes, all to ensure transparent and secure online trading and transactions. WithNEM as a foundation, DIMCOIN will revolutionise the industry of financial services anddeliver a state-of-the-art ecosystem platform for assets and services.Learn more about DIMCOIN and subscribe for updates on:DIMCOIN. Tomorrow. Today.Hybrid Holdings (PTY) Ltd. is a financial services holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in financials, casualty company structure development and investment management. Hybrid Holdings (PTY) Ltd.'s corporate objective is to achieve a high rate of return on invested capital and build long-term shareholder value. Hybrid Holdings (PTY) Ltd42 Homestead roadEdenburg.Rivoniajohannesburg 2128South Africa
Glass Tableware Market Research Report 2016 - key players such as Anchor Hocking LLC, ARC International S.A., Bormioli Rocco SpA, Borosil Glass Works Ltd.

Glass Tableware Market

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http://www.decisiondatabases.com/ip/17223-glass-tableware-market-report

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Research Report on Global Glass Tableware Market 2016 to 2023 added by DecisionDatabases.com studies the current and upcoming Market Size, Share, Demand, Growth, Trend and Forecast. The report on global glass tableware market evaluates the growth trends of the industry through historical study and estimates future prospects based on comprehensive research. The report extensively provides the market share, growth, trends and forecasts for the period 2016-2023. The market size in terms of revenue (USD MN) is calculated for the study period along with the details of the factors affecting the market growth (drivers and restraints).Get FREE Sample Report Copy @The growing investments by the international hotel brands and high disposable income are the major factors pushing the market uphill. But rising cost of raw materials might restraint the growth in the coming years.Furthermore, the report quantifies the market share held by the major players of the industry and provides an in-depth view of the competitive landscape. This market is classified into different segments with detailed analysis of each with respect to geography for the study period 2016-2023. The comprehensive value chain analysis of the market will assist in attaining better product differentiation, along with detailed understanding of the core competency of each activity involved. The market attractiveness analysis provided in the report aptly measures the potential value of the market providing business strategists with the latest growth opportunities.The report also covers the complete competitive landscape of the worldwide market with company profiles of key players such as Anchor Hocking LLC, ARC International S.A., Bormioli Rocco SpA, Borosil Glass Works Ltd., Kavalier Glass A.S., LaOpala R.G. Ltd., Lenox Corporation, Libbey Inc., Sisecam Group, Termisil Huta Szkla Wolomin S.A., World Kitchen LLC and Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik AG. Geographically, this market has been segmented into regions such as North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. The study details country-level aspects based on each segment and gives estimates in terms of market size.Table Of Contents- Overview1.Introduction2.Executive Summary3.Market Analysis4.Glass Tableware Market Analysis By Product Type5.Glass Tableware Market Analysis By Geography6.Competitive Landscape Of The Glass Tableware Companies7.Company Profiles Of The Glass Tableware IndustryView More About this Report @About-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:
Pediatric Healthcare Market Size, Analysis, Industry Demand, Growth And Forecast Report To 2022

Pediatric Healthcare

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http://www.marketresearchglobe.com/report/global-pediatric-healthcare-market-research-report-2017

http://www.marketresearchglobe.com/

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Pediatric is the branch of medicine that handles the medical care of children and infants. The specialists in this branch are called as pediatrician. It is recommended that people under age of 21 should be considered under pediatric care. Pediatrics is a new modern medicine of todays society. Different treatment is necessary for growing and maturing organisms.Download PDF Brochure of Pediatric Healthcare Market:The pediatric healthcare condition of children can be categorized into chronic illness and chronic illness. Short term illnesses are temporary in nature and require considerable primary care of child during that condition. Chronic illnesses are serious and require large amount care and treatment. Some short term diseases are ocular infections, gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea or any injury. Some chronic diseases are asthma and allergies, obesity, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, malnutrition, cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders such as epilepsy.In 2013, Global Pediatric Healthcare Market was estimated approximately USD 81 billion. It is expected to grow rapidly during the forecast period of 2016 to 2022. The common annual growth rate during the forecast period will be in good order. According to UNICEF, nearly 200 million children under age of 5 get affected by malnutrition each year. Increasing number of cases of diarrhea, malnutrition and other disorders in children is driving the growth of this market. In addition, increasing population using pediatric healthcare products and services provokes the market growth.The constant efforts of researchers and pediatric service providers to introduce effective and safe methods for patients will further emphasize the growth of this market. While some manufacturers offer innovative and interesting pediatric products and services which will help to attract more customers. The restraining factors will be higher cost of pediatric products, treatments & services and lack of awareness about pediatric healthcare in remote and rural areas.The major market manufacturers of pediatric products and services are CORPAK Medsystems Inc., Abbott Nutrition, Baxa Corporation and Premier Inc., GE Healthcare. Geographically, the market is segmented into regions which are Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia), Western Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg), North America (U.S. and Canada), Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, and others), Middle East and Africa (GCC, Southern Africa, North Africa) and Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand). According to types, market is classified into products and services.READ MORE:Table of ContentsPart I Pediatric Healthcare Industry OverviewChapter One Pediatric Healthcare Industry Overview1.1 Pediatric Healthcare Definition1.2 Pediatric Healthcare Classification Analysis1.2.1 Pediatric Healthcare Main Classification Analysis1.2.2 Pediatric Healthcare Main Classification Share Analysis1.3 Pediatric Healthcare Application Analysis1.3.1 Pediatric Healthcare Main Application Analysis1.3.2 Pediatric Healthcare Main Application Share Analysis1.4 Pediatric Healthcare Industry Chain Structure Analysis1.5 Pediatric Healthcare Industry Development Overview1.5.1 Pediatric Healthcare Product History Development Overview1.5.1 Pediatric Healthcare Product Market Development Overview1.6 Pediatric Healthcare Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.1 Pediatric Healthcare Global Import Market Analysis1.6.2 Pediatric Healthcare Global Export Market Analysis1.6.3 Pediatric Healthcare Global Main Region Market Analysis1.6.4 Pediatric Healthcare Global Market Comparison Analysis1.6.5 Pediatric Healthcare Global Market Development Trend AnalysisChapter Two Pediatric Healthcare Up and Down Stream Industry Analysis2.1 Upstream Raw Materials Analysis2.1.1 Upstream Raw Materials Price Analysis2.1.2 Upstream Raw Materials Market Analysis2.1.3 Upstream Raw Materials Market Trend2.2 Down Stream Market Analysis2.1.1 Down Stream Market Analysis2.2.2 Down Stream Demand Analysis2.2.3 Down Stream Market Trend AnalysisPart II Asia Pediatric Healthcare Industry (The Report Company Including the Below Listed But Not All)Chapter Three Asia Pediatric Healthcare Market Analysis3.1 Asia Pediatric Healthcare Product Development History3.2 Asia Pediatric Healthcare Competitive Landscape Analysis3.3 Asia Pediatric Healthcare Market Development Trend.About Us:Market Research Globe is a competent consulting company in the field of Global Market Research. We provide our clients a wide range of customized Marketing and Business Research Solutions to choose from, with the help of our ingenious database developed by experts. We help our clients understand the strengths of diverse markets and how to exploit opportunities. Covering a diverse range of business scopes from Digital products to Food industry, we are your one- stop solution right from data collection to investment advices.Contact us:+1-888-376-9998 (US)Email- sales@marketresearchglobe.comWeb-Blogs-
United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market to register a Healthy Growth By 2022

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http://www.researchtrades.com/report/united-states-fingertip-pulse-oximetry-market-report-2017/1127489

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United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry market competition by top manufacturers/players, with Fingertip Pulse Oximetry sales volume, price, revenue (Million USD) and market share for each manufacturer/player; the top players includingGE HealthcarePhilipsSmiths MedicalNonin MedicalCovidienMasimoDelta ElectronicsAcare TechnologyKonica MinoltaSpencerSolarisContecYuwellChoiceMMedHeal ForceBiolightEdanMindrayTo Receive a Sample Copy United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Report @On the basis of product, this report displays the sales volume, revenue, product price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoStand-alone DevicesMulti-parameter UnitsOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate of Fingertip Pulse Oximetry for each application, includingHospitalsClinicsOthersGeographically, this report splits the United States market into seven regions:The WestSouthwestThe Middle AtlanticNew EnglandThe SouthThe Midwestwith sales (volume), revenue (value), market share and growth rate of Fingertip Pulse Oximetry in these regions, from 2012 to 2022 (forecast).Buy a Copy United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Report for single user price of $ 3800 @Key Chapters1 Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Fingertip Pulse Oximetry1.2 Classification of Fingertip Pulse Oximetry by Product Category1.2.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Size (Sales Volume) Comparison by Type (2012-2022)1.2.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Size (Sales Volume) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 20161.2.3 Stand-alone Devices1.2.4 Multi-parameter Units1.3 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market by Application/End Users1.3.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Size (Consumption) and Market Share Comparison by Application (2012-2022)1.3.2 Hospitals1.3.3 Clinics1.3.4 Others1.4 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market by Region1.4.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Size (Value) Comparison by Region (2012-2022)1.4.2 The West Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.3 Southwest Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.4 The Middle Atlantic Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.5 New England Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.6 The South Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.4.7 The Midwest Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Status and Prospect (2012-2022)1.5 United States Market Size (Value and Volume) of Fingertip Pulse Oximetry (2012-2022)1.5.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales and Growth Rate (2012-2022)1.5.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Revenue and Growth Rate (2012-2022)2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Competition by Players/Suppliers2.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales and Market Share of Key Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Revenue and Share by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.3 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Average Price by Players/Suppliers (2012-2017)2.4 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Competitive Situation and Trends2.4.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Concentration Rate2.4.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Market Share of Top 3 and Top 5 Players/Suppliers2.4.3 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion in United States Market2.5 United States Players/Suppliers Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Manufacturing Base Distribution, Sales Area, Product Type3 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales (Volume) and Revenue (Value) by Region (2012-2017)3.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Revenue and Market Share by Region (2012-2017)3.3 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Price by Region (2012-2017)4 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales (Volume) and Revenue (Value) by Type (Product Category) (2012-2017)4.1 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales and Market Share by Type (Product Category) (2012-2017)4.2 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Revenue and Market Share by Type (2012-2017)4.3 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Price by Type (2012-2017)4.4 United States Fingertip Pulse Oximetry Sales Growth Rate by Type (2012-2017)To View Full Report @Who we areResearch Trades has team of experts who works on providing exhaustive analysis pertaining to market research on a global basis. This comprehensive analysis is obtained by a thorough research and study of the ongoing trends and provides predictive data regarding the future estimations, which can be utilized by various organizations for growth purposes.We distribute customized reports that focus on meeting the clients specific requirement. Our database consists of a large collection of high-quality reports obtained using a customer-centric approach, thus providing valuable research insights. The research encompasses information gathered and examined by subject-matter experts, laying down growth opportunities and developmental strategies for enterprises.Reach at us:Flat No.10, Wing C,S. No. 245/4/2+245/5/1,Baner, Pune-411045Email: sales@researchtrades.comCall us: +91 7507349866Skype ID: researchtradesconWeb:
Persian Gulf cement and clinker prices slip in Q2

http://www.cwgrp.com/research/research-products/price-assessments

www.cwgrp.com

Greenwich (CT), USA, June 19, 2017  According to CW Research, Persian Gulf- Arabian Sea Ordinary Portland Cement and clinker price indices for prompt deliveries fell in Q2 2017. CW Researchs Cement and Clinker Persian Gulf- Arabian Sea Price Assessment shows regional cement FOB prices hit USD 35.5 per ton, slipping 39% compared to Q2 2015. The decreasing pricing trend follows a weak demand, coupled with producers willingness to aggressively price cement to keep clinker lines operational.Similarly, CW Researchs regional clinker price index fluctuated between USD 26-28 per ton since the beginning of Q2 2017. The move represented a 31% decline when compared to Q2 2015. Both indices track prices, based on CW Researchs on-going conversations with market participants, measuring actual FOB prices during the month for prompt delivery cargoes by using a proprietary methodology.The Ramadan affects Persian Gulf-based traders differently. Iranian traders consulted by CW Research expect a negative impact in terms of pricing, given that they mostly ship to an undiversified range of Muslim clients. Pakistani and UAE participants mention little impact in terms of pricing, as most of their volumes go to East Africa and Indian clients. After the end of the Ramadan, traders expect a USD1-2/t recovery in cement and clinker FOB, explained Raluca Cercel, Senior Consulting Analyst with CW Research.Prices move lower on Iranian volumesOrdinary Portland cement and ordinary clinker price indices slipped, following a less expensive FOB of Iranian exporters for both products. Since Iran-based producers export larger volumes than their regional counterparts, Iranian FOB becomes more predominant in our index on a weighted average basis.Iranian traders do not expect any resolution on the international sanctions that prevent traders from using Letters of Credit (LOCs). Therefore, reaching markets where trading cement is not possible without LOCs is not a feasible option in the foreseeable future. Given that production costs for Iranian cement producers are low, many move cementitious products only for the sake of keeping production going, hence impacting pricing in the process.Pakistani traders, confined in the past to exporting bagged cargos due to the lack of effective dry bulk cargo terminal capacity, will benefit from the new terminal opened in the Muhammad Bin Qasim Port. The infrastructure will allow producers to cater to markets seeking to absorb larger volumes of cement delivered in bulk. Meanwhile, domestic cement demand remains healthy in Pakistan, thus translating in a high cement FOB, around USD 30 per ton. The need to move cargos to maintain utilization rates is, thus, not as pressing as in Iran.****For more information, placing an order, or interview inquiries, please contact Liviu Dinu, Market Services & Marketing Consultant, CW Group, by phone at +40-744-67-44-11, or e-mail at ld@cwgrp.com.About the ReportThe Cement and Clinker Persian Gulf- Arabian Sea Price Assessment is part of CW Researchs price assessment series for tradable commodities. The reports offer prompt cargo (next 30-60 day deliveries) pricing insights, regular monitoring of the market and an overview of key developments that are crucial for those involved in the cement, clinker and petcoke trade to understand. The monthly price assessments synthesize key market information based on CW Research analysts ongoing interactions with market participants, including traders, exporters, buyers and other stakeholders involved in the cement, clinker and petcoke trade.More information about the price assessments can be found here:About CW GroupThe Greenwich (Conn.), USA headquartered CW Group is a leading advisory, research and business intelligence boutique with a global presence and a multi-industry orientation. CW Group is particularly recognized for its sector expertise in heavy-side building materials (cement), light-side building materials, traditional and renewable power & energy, petrochemicals, metals & mining, industrial minerals, industrial manufacturing, bulk cargo & shipping, among others. We have a strong functional capability, grounded in our methodical and quantitative philosophy, including due diligence, sourcing intelligence, feasibility studies and commodity forecasting.Liviu DinuMarket Services & Marketing ConsultantM: +40-744-67-44-11E: ld@cwgrp.com
Banking for the Future

www.fleming.events

http://fleming.events/

Summary: The East Africa Future Banking Summit will provide a forum to discuss challenges and strategies which will lead East African banks to become more lean, efficient and competitive.19 June, Nairobi: The East Africa Future Banking Summit kicked off today at the Villa Rosa Kempinski with focus on key trends like, Digital Banking, Cryptocurrency, Block-Chain Technology,Cyber Security & Cyber Resilient Strategies being some of the concept that will be decoded in the duration of the event.The event began with a presentation by George Bodo, Head of Financial Desk, Ecobank Capital, Kenya on adjusting to tightening regulatory environment in the banking sector. The impact of digitization on the East African banking environment was explained by George Njuguna, Chief Information OfficerHousing Finance Bank, Kenya. The Bank & FinTech collaboration in an API economy presentation by Salil Ravindran, Head  Digital Banking Centre of Excellence(India)- Oracle, addressed the need to learn from API initiatives worldwide.The presentations on The Future of Bank Branch in a Highly Digitized Banking Environment & Digital Transformation in Banks were presented by David Ndome, National Bank, Regional Branch Business Manager, Kenya and Mwanahamisi J Hussein, KCB Bank, Head of Alternate Channels, Tanzania respectively. This was followed by a panel discussion on the development of Central Repository Data System which could prove to be a game changer for the banking sector.Chima Nwoko, Chief Executive Officer, South Atlantic Solutions (South Africa) spoke on the approach to be adopted for suitable core banking solutions. Leon Kiptum, Family Bank, Head of Alternate Channels (Kenya) presented on the adoption and development of a new payment landscape for African customers. The day concluded with two panel discussions focused on the Regulating And Standardizing of Mobile Payments and The Role of Banks & FinTechs in Conquering Digital Age.The second day of the event will center on the themes of fueling a resilient digital banking system and the risks of digitization. Some of the presentations highlighting this theme on day 2 are Challenger Bank: Moving from a 'digitized bank' to 'whole digital bank' by Melaku Kebede, VP  Systems & E-Banking, United Bank S.C, Ethiopia, Disrupting the Disruptors: How banks can regain the momentum from FinTechs? by Ali Hussein, Chairman, KICTANet, National Block-chain Working Group, Kenya, Cryptocurrency: It's fate in East Africa by Rosemary Koech-Kimwatu, Head of Legal & Regulatory Affairs, WayaWaya, Kenya & Cyber Resilient Strategy for Banks by Wycliffe Momanyi, Chief Information Security Officer, Kenya Commercial Bank, Kenya.The associate partner for the event are software solutions provider and management IT firm, South Atlantic Solutions. The gold partner for the event is Oracle. The bronze partners for the event are Manam Infotech and Bank-Genie PTE. LTD.Fleming. connects great people, useful know-how and valuable opportunities. With 12 years in the business and 300+ events organized annually, Fleming. has grown to offer a portfolio of Conferences, Trainings, Exhibitions, Blended Learning and Online Conferences. Present on five continents Fleming. has partnerships to always stay one step ahead. More than 50,000 satisfied companies participating at our events every year prove that Fleming. is the right partner. For more information, visitFleming.Mlynske Nivy 71821 05 BratislavaSlovak RepublicW.T. +971 4609 1570
Mattress Market by Global Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022

Mattress Market Research Report

https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/136064-global-12

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https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/136064-global-12

https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/136064-global-12

Description :A mattress is a large pad for supporting the reclining body, used as or on a bed. Mattresses may consist of a quilted or similarly fastened case, usually of heavy cloth, that contains hair, straw, cotton, foam rubber, etc.; a framework of metal springs; or they may be inflatable. Mattresses are usually placed on top of a bed base which may be solid, as in the case of a platform bed, or elastic, e.g. with an upholstered wood and wire box spring or a slatted foundation. Flexible bed bases can prolong the life of the mattress. Popular in Europe, a divan incorporates both mattress and foundation in a single upholstered, footed unit. Divans have at least one innerspring layer as well as cushioning materials. They may be supplied with a secondary mattress and/or a removable "topper."Request for Sample Report @Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Mattress in Global market, especially in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East andAfrica. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, type and application.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversHilding AndersRuf-BettenSertaRecticelSealyBrecklePikolinSilentnightMagniflexTempur-PedicSelect ComfortEkornesVeldeman GroupAuping GroupKingKoilEcusMarket Segment by Regions, regional analysis coversNorth America (USA, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Type, coversInnerspring mattressFoam mattressLatex mattressOthers mattressMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoPrivate householdsHotelsHospitalsOthersBuy this Report @There are 15 Chapters to deeply display the global Mattress market.Chapter 1, to describe Mattress Introduction, product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market risk, market driving force;Chapter 2, to analyze the top manufacturers of Mattress, with sales, revenue, and price of Mattress, in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 3, to display the competitive situation among the top manufacturers, with sales, revenue and market share in 2016 and 2017;Chapter 4, to show the global market by regions, with sales, revenue and market share of Mattress, for each region, from 2012 to 2017;Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to analyze the market by countries, by type, by application and by manufacturers, with sales, revenue and marketshare by key countries in these regions;Chapter 10 and 11, to show the market by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2012 to2017;Chapter 12, Mattress market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2017 to 2022;Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Mattress sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data sourceMake Enquiry Before Purchase @Table Of Content :Table of Contents1 Market Overview1.1 Mattress Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Innerspring mattress1.2.2 Foam mattress1.2.3 Latex mattress1.2.4 Others mattress1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Private households1.3.2 Hotels1.3.3 Hospitals1.3.4 Others1.4 Market Analysis by Regions1.4.1 North America (USA, Canada and Mexico)1.4.1.1 USA Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.1.2 Canada Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.1.3 Mexico Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.2 Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)1.4.2.1 Germany Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.2.2 France Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.2.3 UK Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.2.4 Russia Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.2.5 Italy Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.3 Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)1.4.3.1 China Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.3.2 Japan Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.3.3 Korea Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.3.4 India Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.3.5 Southeast Asia Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.4 South America, Middle East and Africa1.4.4.1 Brazil Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.4.2 Egypt Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.4.3 Saudi Arabia Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.4.4 South Africa Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.4.4.5 Nigeria Market States and Outlook (2012-2022)1.5 Market Dynamics1.5.1 Market Opportunities1.5.2 Market Risk1.5.3 Market Driving Force.ContinuedView complete table of contents @HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the Accurate Forecast in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their Goals & Objectives.Contact US:HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private LimitedUnit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJNew Jersey USA  08837sales@htfmarketre)port.com+1 (206) 317 1218 (US)
Worldwide Frozen Dessert Industry Analysis, Major Key Players and Foresight to 2027

Frozen Dessert Market

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1520

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/frozen-dessert-market

Learning Objectives Detailed market assessment for individual segments and sub-segments markets for frozen dessert To estimate and forecast the market size and its various segments To understand the market dynamics of the frozen dessert To provide region level market analysis and future outlook for North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (ROW) and their countries Company profiling of major players in the market Value chain analysis indicating each stage of its production process and identifying the crucial stages for improvements Supply chain analysis of the product indicating the stake of the various suppliers, both basic producers and formulators/distributors, till the end-user Evaluation of historical market trends, patents and technologies, and current government regulatory requirements related to Frozen DessertRequest a Sample Report @Market ScenarioGlobally, the market for Frozen Dessert has been increasing due to rise in disposable income and improved lifestyle. Also due to the consumers preferences towards various varieties of frozen dessert, additionally, rise in fluctuating weather tends consumers to prefer frozen dessert.Market SegmentsThe market for Global Frozen Dessert Market is segmented as follows:On the basis of type and by ingredient; On basis of type- flavored liquid, fruit juice, milk & cream, mousse On basis of ingredients- dairy based, non-dairy based fruits, gelatosBrowse Report Details @Key Players:The key players profiled in global frozen dessert market report include- Gilfi Cool Delight Desserts Ltd Hiland Diary Byrne Dairy Nestle Edys Unilever Wells Enterprises Blue Bell And Ben & Jerry'sStakeholders Ice-cream companies Beverage ingredient companies Cold-Logistics Companies Bakery Food Companies Dairy Companies Government bodies Traders, exporters, importersReasons to buyThis report contains detailed study and analysis of frozen dessert. It encompasses market segmentation of frozen dessert by type and ingredient. Globally, it helps in identifying key frozen dessert suppliers and consumers. The report will help in investments for the frozen dessert and allied companies providing details on the fast growing segments and regions. In addition, it will provide the frozen dessert companies to improve profitability by using supply chain strategies, cost effectiveness of various products mentioned in the 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.Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Electrostatic Discharge Packaging Global Market Analysis, Segmentation, Trend and Foresight by 2023

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Electrostatic discharge (ESD) packaging includes range of distinctive feature packaging products for protecting electronic items especially static items by ensuring the integrity of the products contained within the pack.The growth of global electrostatic discharge packaging market can be attributed to the growing demand of electronic devices, which has propelled the need for the miniaturization of electronic devices thereby directly driving the market growth. In addition, recently there has been an increase in the demand for mobility in electronic devices. To be portable and cost-effective, devices need to be lightweight and small. As a result, the increased demand for mobility has translated into a trend toward the adoption of smaller devices.The global electrostatic discharge packaging market is expected to grow over the CAGR of around 8.2% during the period 2017 to 2023.Get a Sample Copy @Access the market data and market information presented through more than 100 numbers of pages of the project report Electrostatic Discharge Packaging MarketKey Players Teknis Limited (U.K.), Tandem Equipment Sales, Inc. (U.S.), Summit Packaging Solutions (U.S.), Stephen Gould Corp. (U.S.), Statico (U.S.), Elcom UK Ltd (U.K.), Protektive Pak (U.S.), GWP Group Limited (U.K.) Desco Industries Inc. (U.S.) and Many MoreStudy objectives of Global Electrostatic Discharge Packaging Market To provide detailed analysis of the market structure along with forecast for the next 10 years of various segments and sub-segments of the global electrostatic discharge packaging market. To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth To analyze global electrostatic discharge packaging 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- Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, Rest of World. 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 product, by end user and by region. To provide strategic profiling of the 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 electrostatic discharge packaging market.Browse Full Report Details @Regional Analysis of Global Electrostatic Discharge Packaging MarketAsia-Pacific is expected to dominate the electrostatic discharge packaging market during the forecast period. The presence of huge number of electronic manufacturers in countries like China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan is the major driver for the growth of electrostatic discharge packaging market in the region. Asia Pacific is expected to be followed by Europe and North America, where the contribution of U.S. is anticipated to be more.Target Audience Manufactures Raw Materials Suppliers Aftermarket suppliers Research Institute / Education Institute Potential Investors Key executive (CEO and COO) and strategy growth managerProduct Analysis Product matrix which gives a detailed comparison of the market for different recycled product typesAdditional Information Regulatory Landscape Pricing Analysis Macroeconomic IndicatorsGeographic Analysis Geographical analysis across 15 countriesCompany Information Profiling of 10 key market players In-depth analysis including SWOT analysis, and strategy information of related to report title Competitive landscape including emerging trends adopted by major companiesThe report for Global Electrostatic Discharge Packaging 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 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.ContinueWe are thankful for the support and assistance from Global Electrostatic Discharge Packaging Market Research Report  Forecast to 2023 chain related technical experts and marketing experts during Research Team survey and interviews.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.Media Contact:Akash Anand,Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: akash.anand@marketresearchfuture.com
Iran on Monday denied three members of its elite Revolutionary Guard had been arrested aboard an explosives-laden boat as claimed by Saudi Arabian authorities.

Majid Aghababaie, head of border affairs at Iran's interior ministry, said the three people detained were fishermen from the southern Iranian port of Bushehr.

"The identity of those three individuals is known. They are from Bushehr and were fishing when they were arrested by the Saudi coastguard," said Aghababaie.

"There is no proof that they are military personnel," he said, in remarks carried by the ILNA news agency.

Saudi Arabia on Monday said the three suspects it captured were Guard members aboard a boat heading to an oil platform in the Gulf, which separates the two rival nations.

They "are now being questioned by Saudi authorities," the information and culture ministry said in a statement, at a time of already-heightened tensions with Iran.

"It is clear this was intended to be a terrorist act in Saudi territorial waters designed to cause severe damage to people and property," the ministry said.

On Saturday, Iran accused the Saudi coastguard of killing one of its fishermen after two fishing boats may have strayed into Saudi waters.

Aghababie said on Monday that a Saudi claim the boats entered the kingdom's waters had not been proven.

"But the day of the incident (Saturday) one of the two boats had a mechanical failure and the Saudi forces opened fire killing a fisherman," he said.

Earlier Monday Saudi Arabia said it had seized weapons from a boat captured after the navy fired warning shots at three vessels approaching a Gulf oil platform.

It said the incident took place on Friday night.

One boat was captured, while the other two escaped, a Saudi government statement said.

Tensions between Sunni-led Saudi Arabia and Shiite-dominated Iran are chronic.

Saudi Arabia regularly accuses Iran of interfering in the affairs of its neighbours, claims rejected by Tehran

Earlier this month Saudi Arabia and several of its allies cut ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting extremist groups, including some backed by Iran.

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Industrial Energy Efficient Services Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share 2024 | Research Report

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As the world is transcending toward clean energy, it is becoming increasingly clear that efficiency can make the transition faster, cheaper, and beneficial across all the sectors. Energy efficiency is an important element in energy policies around the world. Globally, around two-third of the economic potential associated with energy saving remains untapped. Around 70% of the energy use in the world is utilized without any energy efficiency and performance measures. For instance, nearly 2/3rd of the energy consumed from buildings across the world has no standards or code applied to it. The core imperatives of an energy policy such as decarbonization, energy security, and air pollution can be made achievable and accessible with the incorporation of proper energy standards and other energy efficiency measures.Browse Market Research Report @Growth in the industrial sector has encouraged companies to seek faster ways to lower energy consumption due to the high cost and strict environmental regulations. The industrial sector has been expanding steadily since the last few years. Opportunities for energy efficiency improvements are expected to increase constantly. There exists potential to adopt energy efficient technologies and measures that reduce the energy consumption in the industrial sector by an additional 15-30% by 2025. Governments across the globe are increasingly focusing on adopting energy efficient practices. This is the primary driver of the global energy efficient services market. The European Union devised the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) in order to lower energy consumption by 20% and maintain transparency in the overall billing process.The U.K. has set up the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), an energy audit program that mandates industrial facilities to identify, evaluate, and report energy efficiency opportunities in their organizations every four years. Similarly, the Indian Energy Conservation Act also mandates energy intensive industries in the country to conduct energy audits and consulting. The Government of India offers tax incentives to companies for energy efficient plants and for keeping a tab on energy requirements diligently. Many companies are already striving to become more energy efficient. For instance, equipment manufacturers Alstom, ABB, Schneider, and Johnson Controls offer energy saving equipment and process optimization services linked to their products. Large IT companies such as SAP, IBM, Cisco, and Microsoft have devised programs to collect, monitor, and manage energy data.According to the International Energy Agency, the global energy intensity, i.e. the amount of energy utilized per unit of GDP, improved by 1.8% in 2015 and this industry is estimated to witness double digit growth in the near future; the commercial sector is expected to account for major share of the growth. Favorable support from regulatory bodies and government institutions is likely to drive the industrial energy efficient services market. However, economic & financial, regulatory, and Informational barriers may impede the implementation of energy efficient measures.Based on service, the energy efficient market can be segmented into energy auditing & consulting, product & system optimization, and monitoring & verification. The energy auditing and consulting segment accounted for the major share of the industrial energy efficient services market in 2015. The segment is anticipated to dominate the market during the forecast period, led by the increase in governmental efforts to mandate companies to undertake energy audits and comply with energy efficient standards. In terms of region, North America held the prominent share of the industrial energy efficient services market in 2015, driven by the energy efficient initiatives in the region and rise in need to enhance energy consumption to achieve development goals.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Industrial Energy Efficient Services Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market @China leads the industrial energy efficient services market in Asia Pacific, driven by its 13th five year plan to achieve energy efficiency standards. The country is estimated to attract further investment in the sector considering the sheer size of its domestic energy usage. China has also developed stringent and energy efficient Monitoring and Verification (M&V). This segment is projected to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The global industrial energy efficient services market is highly competitive due to the presence of a large number of regional and global vendors. Key players operating in the industrial energy efficient services market are Siemens, Honeywell, TERI, DuPont, Dalkia, ENGIE, Getec, Johnson Controls, Schneider Electric, SGS, and Wood.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.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, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.ContactTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Mooring Inspection Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share 2024 | Research Report

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Global Mooring Inspection Market: OverviewMooring anchoring systems are of high importance for the safe operations of offshore loading systems. Therefore, the integrity of mooring components is of utmost importance to ensure breakage-free operations throughout the service life of the facility.Browse Market Research Report @To attain maximum efficiency from offshore loading systems, the best practice is put in place a risk-based inspection plan that can be optimized in terms of both frequency and inspection effort to be cost-effective. Mooring inspection is a routine practice in offshore operations to ensure the reliability of mooring components, however, the available technologies are not completely reliable or may not be suitable for the purpose.The report presents detailed quantitative and qualitative insights into the development of the global mooring inspection market for the 2016-2024 period. It also looks into market drivers, challenges, opportunities as well as technological developments that will have a bearing on this market over the aforementioned forecast period.Global Mooring Inspection Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe importance of identifying defects in a mooring system for safe offshore and onshore operations is primarily driving the mooring inspection market. This is because mooring inspection helps detect defects in mooring lines such as mechanical overload, fatigue, erosion, and corrosion. Thus, the integrity of mooring facility during its entire lifespan can be attained by rigorous monitoring and inspection techniques in place.In terms of type of inspection, water inspection, shore inspection, and partial raising inspection are the segments of the market. Water inspection is done by divers without unfastening the mooring lines. Partial raising inspection is carried out by pulling the mooring component onboard a vessel and then examined. Shore inspects involves completely detaching the mooring line and pulling it onshore and then examined.On the basis of technique, the market can be divided into ultrasonic techniques, close visual inspection, HD 3-D videos, optical chain measurement systems, rope measurement systems, magnetic particle inspection, 3-D modeling, subsea chain measurement caliper, and ROV based measurement.Of these MPI testing is significantly used as it is nondestructive. This method utilizes magnetic fields and magnetic particles to determine defects in mooring components such as swivels, chasers, connecting links, shackles, and hooks. Close visual inspection technology is often integrated with ROV system. It employs modern methods used for subsea damage diagnostics such as HD video inspection and 3-D modeling. Magnetic particle inspection and close visual inspection can be combined to detect corrosion, distortion, surface cracks, and chain breaks.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Mooring Inspection Market . Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market @Global Mooring Inspection Market: Regional OutlookIn terms of geography, the market can be classified into the segments of North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa. North America dominates the mooring inspection market led by the large number of operational rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. Europe is also a significantly large market for mooring inspection due to the presence of offshore operations in the North Sea. However, the Middle East and Africa and Southeast Asia are expected to extend attractive opportunities to the mooring inspection market led by an increasing number of offshore operations in the Persian Gulf and Bengal Basin.Global Mooring Inspection Market: Competitive LandscapeKey players in the mooring inspection market include Aceton Group Ltd., Welaptega, Viking SeaTech, Franklin Offshore Australia Pty Ltd., DELMAR, and JIFMAR Offshore Services. Of these, Franklin Offshore Australia Pty Ltd. leads the overall market with an extensive service portfolio.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.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, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.ContactTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Solar Control Window Films Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size 2024 | Research Report

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Solar Control Window Films Market: OverviewWindow film is a highly thin film made from vinyl, polyester, plastic or any other material that allows the light to pass through. Window films are usually installed on the inner side of glass surfaces of windows in homes, offices, hospitals, boats, cars, and airplanes. Among the materials used for window films, polyester is a commonly used material, due to its dimensional stability, tensile strength, clarity, and ability to sustain a number of surface-applied or embedded treatments. Window films come in different colors, thicknesses, grades, and applications such as thermal insulation, heat and glare reduction, UV filtration, privacy, safety and security, and decoration.Browse Market Research Report @Solar control window films primarily offer thermal insulation, heat and glare reduction, and UV filtration. These films can be applied on any glass surface by professional service companies or through DIY kits available. Solar control window films are used in automobiles, commercial and residential buildings, commercial and private boats, and for decorative purposes.Solar control window films with heat rejection as a primary feature usually provide reduced amount of visible, infrared, and UV radiations entering the windows. These films are usually dyed or metalized (with a metal that can be transparent to visible light), which converts the incoming solar radiations into infrared radiations and send them back to the exterior through the glass. Modern technology has enabled production of ceramic window films that are non-metallic and without dyes that can cause discoloration of the film. Spectrally selective films function by blocking certain wavelengths of infrared radiations from the sun and reject heat without reducing the natural light.Solar control window films with heat insulation feature are designed in such a way that they restrict the amount of heat transferred through the window glass. A low-emissivity coating is applied to the external surface of windows of a house to prevent the solar heat from entering the house. On the other hand, the inner surface of windows is coated when they are designed to provide heat energy to the inside of the house.Solar Control Window Films Market: TrendsRegular window films are inexpensive in comparison with ceramic and metallic window films. However, the latter have an advantage of reduced energy transmission by as much as 80% over regular window films. Ceramic window films may cost higher, but they provide better service in terms of blocking of UV-rays and controlled heat transfer.Solar control window films, as compared to generic window films, are not a subject to rigorous testing. However, standards have been formulated to maintain a quality level in the market. ANSI Standards ASTM D1044-93 and ASTM E903 relate to abrasion resistance and UV/solar transmission property, respectively. Major players operating in the solar control window films market follow these standards so as to ensure the quality of their raw materials and finished products.Not all films are suitable for all glasses. Several factors are considered along with the type of glass where the film is to be applied before the selection and subsequent application of the window film.In the recent past, there has been an increased demand for sun control films. It is observed that the demand increased exponentially, due to requirement for these films for architectural purposes in the construction industry (residential and commercial buildings). Development of infrastructure is a major driver for the global solar control window films market. Growing trend of energy-efficient houses is a major factor that has increased the demand for solar control window films, as the use of glass in the construction industry has risen (for example, the number and size of windows is large in open-plan houses).Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Solar Control Window Films Market . Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market @Solar Control Window Films Market: SegmentationBased on product types, the solar control window films market can be segmented into ceramic, metallic, and others.Based on applications, the market can be divided into automotive, architectural (commercial and residential), marine, decorative, and others.Solar Control Window Films Market: Region-wise OutlookAsia Pacific is expected to be the leading market for solar control window films, owing to population size in the region. Increasing demand from the construction industry in the region is also expected to boost the market in the region. The market in Middle East & Africa is likely to witness decent growth, due to rise in construction activities. The global market for solar control window films is projected to witness exponential growth in the near future, due to increasing demand from key industries such as construction, automotive, marine, and aviation.Solar Control Window Films Market: Key PlayersKey players operating in the solar control window films market include 3M, The Window Film Company, Eastman Chemical Company, Garware Suncontrol, SOLAR CONTROL FILMS INC., Purlfrost Ltd., Saint-Gobain, Sun Control, Madico Inc., Polytronix Inc., and Solyx Films SA Pty Ltd.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.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, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.ContactTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Solid State Lasers Market Global Outlook 2025

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Laser or light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation is a device which emits electromagnetic radiation, in the form of light, by optically amplifying the same.A laser is generally composed of a gain medium, a pumping mechanism for energizing the gain medium and optical mirrors or similar instruments for providing an optical feedback.Lasers can vary, based on the gain medium used to generate light. Solid state lasers utilize a solid as the medium, rather than liquids or gases. When light passes through the solid gain medium, it amplifies and produces a sharp beam of light.The solid gain or active medium used are generally made of glass or crystals. A doped glass or crystal has been found to function better and also has higher application period. The most common solid gain medium is Neodymium doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG).Obtain Report Details:Other materials include Ytterbium doped glass, Neodymium doped glass and Erbium doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er:YAG) among other crystals. Nd:YAG crystals are mostly favored since they have a higher damage threshold and can withstand high temperatures, produced during the operation of the solid state laser. Laser diodes, arc lamps or flash lamps are generally utilized in a solid state laser, as an optical pump.Solid state lasers market has quite low growth rate, owing to their high market penetration. The market for solid state lasers is primarily being driven by the growing demand for pulsed lasers for various healthcare applications.Various cosmetic procedures, such as skin resurfacing, melasma treatment and scar removal among others utilize Nd:YAG based solid state pulsed lasers. Heightening demand for such procedures, across the globe, has been driving the growth of solid state lasers market globally.Additionally, the application of solid state lasers has been growing at a steady pace in the aerospace and defense sector. Solid state lasers have several applications in this sector, such as laser weapon systems. Such systems can be utilized for destruction of a target or for disabling the security systems of immobilizing the target.Owing to the advantages of such solid state laser based system, the growing application in aerospace and defense sector has also been positively impacting the growth of solid state lasers market.Furthermore, higher usage of solid state lasers for laser marking systems has also been driving the market forward. However, the saturated nature of the market and relatively higher price, compared to other type of lasers, has been restraining the growth of the market.With the widening of application areas and higher usage in healthcare industry, the growth opportunities for solid state lasers is also expected to widen, during the forecast period.On the basis of type, the market for solid state lasers has been segmented into continuous wave lasers and pulsed solid state lasers. By light source, the market for solid state lasers has been segmented into laser diode, arc lamp and others.Laser diode was the largest segment by revenue, in 2016, owing to their higher efficiency and relatively lesser ownership cost. By end-use industry, the market has been segmented into aerospace & defense, healthcare and others.On the basis of region, the global solid state lasers market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), South America and Middle-East & Africa (MEA). Revenue wise, North America was the largest region in 2016, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Solid State Lasers Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market:The major companies of the solid state lasers market globally are Coherent Inc. (The U.S.), Northrop Grumman Corporation (The U.S.) The Trumpf Group (Germany), ALLTEC (Subsidiary of Danaher Corporation) (Germany),Jenoptik AG (Germany), Photonics Industries International, Inc. (The U.S.), and Hans Laser Technology (China) among various other 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.About TMRTransparency 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.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, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email:sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Bio-based Isoprene Market: Latest Trends,Analysis & Insights 2024

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A new research report by Transparency Market Research offers a comprehensive evaluation of the global Bio-based Isoprene Market. The study, titled Bio-based Isoprene Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2016 - 2024, is available for sale on the firms website.Global Bio-based Isoprene Market: OutlineIsoprene with formula C5H8 is a colorless volatile liquid produced by various plants. Many trees and plants such as poplars, oaks, legumes and eucalyptus emit isoprene into the atmosphere. Isoprene is also known as 2-methyl-1, 3-butadiene which is used as a chemical raw material. It is used as a starting material for a host of synthetic polymers, especially synthetic rubbers. A very small proportion of bio-based isoprene is used in the production of fragrance intermediates and flavors. Isoprene along with other unsaturated compounds is used to manufacture polymeric materials.Browse Market Research Report @Isoprene is produced naturally from plants through methyl-erythritol 4-phosphate pathway i.e. MEP pathway in the chloroplasts of trees and plants. One among the two end products of this pathway such as dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMADP) forms isoprene by the catalytic reaction by isoprene synthase. Through industrial process, isoprene was isolated from natural rubber by thermal decomposition. Industrially, it is readily available as a byproduct of thermal cracking of oil or naphtha as a side product in the ethylene production. Major fraction of isoprene produced worldwide is converted into polyisoprene. It is produced mainly from the petroleum derived feedstocks leading to inherent risk of volatility in prices and demand of oil. Moreover, it is expensive and environment unfriendly. These factors led to the use of bio-based products to manufacture isoprene.Global Bio-based Isoprene Market: Trends and OpportunitiesRising interest is seen in the production of isoprene from the genetically engineered micro-organisms. This new technology increases the fermentative capabilities of micro-organisms through a process of genetically engineering DNA. This process improves enzyme activity leading to increased yield of isoprene. This technology has huge potential in the market for manufacturing bio-based isoprene. Bio-based isoprene has applications in various end-user industries. It is used in the production of footwear, medical appliances, mechanical instruments and sporting goods. The major application of bio-based isoprene is in manufacturing rubber tires. It is also used in manufacturing various adhesives and elastomers. Surgical gloves such as nitrile, vinyl and latex gloves are also manufactured using bio-based isoprene. Transportation jets and jet fuels also make use of bio-based isoprene for its production.The growing rubber industry and demand for rubber products is the major driving factor of global bio-based isoprene market. The rising awareness for environmental friendly products is also expected to boost demand for bio-based isoprene for a host of applications.Global Bio-based Isoprene Market: Regional OutlookNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Rest of the World (RoW) are the key segments for global bio-based isoprene market. Asia Pacific, especially China and Latin America is the expected to fuel demand for bio-based isoprene due to large number of rubber industries in the region. North America and Europe are also expected to boost demand for bio-based isoprene for various applications such as adhesives and elastomers among others.Global Bio-based Isoprene Market: Key Players Mentioned in the ReportThe major companies profiled for global bio-based isoprene include: DuPont, Amyris, Good year Tire and Rubber Company, Genencor, Michelin, BioXcell, Ajinomoto Co. Inc, Bridgestone Corporation, PolymerOhio Inc, GlycosBio and Danisco among others. Companies into manufacture of bio-based isoprene have altered various enzymes in the biosynthetic pathway to enhance both the yield of isoprene and the rate of production. Technological advancements along with changes in the enzymatic pathways have improved the quantity and efficiency of isoprene and have reduced the production of by-products DuPont developed an innovative fermentation process for producing bio-based isoprene monomers from biomass using metabolically engineered E. coli strains.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Bio-based Isoprene market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this 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.The study is a source of reliable data on:Market segments and sub-segmentsMarket trends and dynamicsSupply and demandMarket sizeCurrent trends/opportunities/challengesCompetitive landscapeTechnological breakthroughsValue chain and stakeholder analysisThe regional analysis covers:North America (U.S. and Canada)Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, and others)Western Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)Eastern Europe (Poland and Russia)Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand)Middle East and Africa (GCC, Southern Africa, and North 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. TMR's 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.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit :
Concrete Floor Coatings Market Size, Share | Industry Trends Analysis Report, 2025

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The Canada concrete floor coatings market features a highly consolidated competitive landscape, with the top five contributors to the market holding a substantial 70% of the overall market in 2016, says Transparency Market Research in a recent report. Strong growth of these leading companies, namely The Sherwin Williams Company, PPG Industries Inc., BASF SE, RPM International Inc., and Sika AG, is largely attributed to their continual efforts towards attaining technological expertise and introducing innovative products to the market.Expanding their geographical reach with the help of strategic acquisitions and mergers is one of the key growth strategies adopted by companies in the market to strengthen their hold. An instance is BASF SEs recent acquisition. In December 2016, the company acquired Chemtell Groups surface treatment business from Albemarle Corp. in Charlotte, North Carolina to improve its coatings portfolio as well as its position as a complete solutions provider to global customers.This 85 page report gives readers a comprehensive overview of the Concrete Floor Coatings market.Browse Market Research Report @Transparency Market Research estimates that the Canada concrete floor coatings market will expand at a healthy 5.2% CAGR from 2017 to 2025, rising from a valuation of US$100.8 mn in 2016 to US$158.0 mn in 2025.Epoxy Coatings to Keep Contributing Massive Chunk of Revenue to Canada Concrete Floor Coatings MarketFrom a geographical standpoint, the Ontario concrete floor coatings market accounted for more than 30% of the Canada concrete floor coatings market in 2016. Rising urbanization, increasing disposable income and increasing demand for residential projects have been the prominent factors driving the market in Ontario and are expected to help retain the province its leading stance in the overall market in the next few years as well. In terms of product type, the segment of epoxy coatings accounted for a massive 60% of the overall market in 2016. The segment will continue to account for a massive share in the Canada concrete floor coatings market over the forecast period as well, but is expected to lose to the segment of polyaspartics in terms of growth rate over the forecast period.Rising Demand from Thriving Construction Sector to Drive MarketStrict environmental regulations in Canada are expected to have a significant influence on the way the Canada market for concrete floor coatings develops in the next few years. In its transition to becoming an environmentally more sensitive country, the government of Canada has put forward regulations to limit harmful emission of VOCs from various paints and coatings. Almost all provinces in the country have been experiencing reduction in emissions since the last 10 years. Rise in demand from the blooming construction industry is another key factor driving the overall development of the Canada concrete floor coatings market.Government programs such as Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI) and New Building Canada Plan (NBCP) are projected to propel the construction industry in Canada. This, in turn, is anticipated to augment the market for concrete floor coatings. Additionally, various government efforts to enhance the residential and public infrastructure are likely to contribute to the growth of the market. Upcoming projects of real estate, revitalization of bridges, airport facility expansion, construction of hydroelectric dams, and construction of LNG facilities are expected to augment the demand for concrete floor coatings in Canada in the near future.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Concrete Floor Coatings market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market@This review of the Canada concrete floor coatings market is based on a recent market research report published by Transparency Market Research, titled Concrete Floor Coatings Market (Product Type - Epoxy and Polyaspartics; Application - Indoor and Outdoor) - Canada Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 - 2025.For the study, the Canada concrete floor coatings market has been segmented as follows:Concrete Floor Coatings Market  Product Type AnalysisEpoxyPolyasparticsOthersConcrete Floor Coatings Market  Application Type AnalysisIndoorOutdoorConcrete Floor Coatings Market  Provincial AnalysisOntarioQuebecBritish ColumbiaAlbertaSaskatchewanManitobaAtlanticAbout 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. TMR's 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.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Visit Blog :
Thermoplastic Polyurethane Films Market SWOT Analysis Of Top Key Player Forecasts To 2024

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TPU Films Market: Scope of the StudyThe report estimates and forecasts the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) films 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 product segments. It provides a comprehensive view of the market. Value chain analysis also offers detailed information about value addition at each stage. The study includes drivers and restraints for the thermoplastic polyurethane films 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 thermoplastic polyurethane films market on the global and regional level. Drivers, restraints, and opportunities mentioned in the report are justified through quantitative and qualitative data. These have been verified through primary and secondary resources. Furthermore, the report analyzes substitutes of TPU films. It also provides the global average price trend analysis.The report includes Porters Five Forces Model to determine the degree of competition in the thermoplastic polyurethane films market. The report comprises a qualitative write-up on market attractiveness analysis, wherein end-users 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 report comprises price trend analysis for TPU films between 2016 and 2024.View Report @TPU Films Market: SegmentationThe study provides a comprehensive view of the TPU films market by dividing it into product segments, end-user and geography. The TPU films market has been segmented into polyester TPU, polyether TPU and polycaprolactone TPU. The end-user segment include automotive, building & construction, furniture, aerospace, footwear, energy and others. Product & End-user 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.Regional segmentation includes the current and forecast demand for TPU films in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Key countries such as the U.S., Germany, France, the U.K., Spain, Italy, India, China, South Africa, Mexico, and Brazil have been included in the study.TPU Films Market: Competitive LandscapeThe report covers detailed competitive outlook that includes market share and profiles of key players operating in the global market. Key players profiled in the report include BASF SE, Covestro AG, The Lubrizol Corporation, Huntsman Corporation, and Polyol Macromolecule Polymer (Fujian) Co., Ltd. Company profiles include attributes such as company overview, number of employees, brand overview, key competitors, business overview, business strategies, recent/key developments, acquisitions, and financial overview (wherever applicable).TPU Films Market: Research MethodologySecondary research sources that were typically referred to include, but were not limited to company websites, financial reports, annual reports, investor presentations, broker reports, and SEC filings. Other sources such as internal and external proprietary databases, statistical databases and market reports, news articles, national government documents, and webcasts specific to companies operating in the market have also been referred for the report.In-depth interviews and discussions with wide range of key opinion leaders and industry participants were conducted to compile this research report. Primary research represents the bulk of research efforts, supplemented by extensive secondary research. Key players product literature, annual reports, press releases, and relevant documents were reviewed for competitive analysis and market understanding. This helped in validating and strengthening secondary research findings. Primary research further helped in developing the analysis teams expertise and market understanding.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Thermoplastic Polyurethane Films Market Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.The thermoplastic polyurethane films market has been divided into the following segments:Thermoplastic Polyurethane Films Market  Product AnalysisPolyester TPUPolyether TPUPolycaprolactone TPUThermoplastic Polyurethane Films Market  End-user AnalysisAutomotiveBuilding & ConstructionFurnitureAerospaceFootwearEnergyOthers (including medical & health care, flexible packaging, and recreation)Thermoplastic Polyurethane Films Market  Regional AnalysisNorth AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyFranceU.K.ItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanASEANRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCEgyptSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaAbout 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:
Wi-Fi Extender Market: Geological and Competitive Dynamics, Report Overview 2025

Wi-Fi Extender Market, Wi-Fi Extender Market share, Wi-Fi Extender Market size

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Wi-Fi Extender technologically known as Wi-Fi range expander. This is a type of wireless repeater that is used to expand the reach and capacity of a wireless LAN. This devices is placed in between an access point or base router and a client that is far enough not to receive acceptable service or that is on the other side of the barrier. The Wi-Fi extender picks up the signal and resends it or retransmits it and thereby connects without any wired connectivity.These Wi-Fi extenders are helpful to those clients who has very limited access or weak signal in comparison to the one who does not have any access at all. The Wi-Fi Extender market has been segmented into type, product, application, end user industry and geography.In terms of type, the Wi-Fi Extender market can be segmented into outdoor Wi-Fi, indoor Wi-Fi and transportation Wi-Fi. In terms of product the Wi-Fi Extender market can be segmented into wireless local area network, wireless hotspot gateways, access points, repeaters and relays among others. Additionally, in terms of application, the Wi-Fi Extender market can be segmented into installation, support, maintenance, survey and analysis, network planning and design. Moreover, the Wi-Fi extender market is also segmented in terms of end user industry into healthcare, defense and military, retail and hospitality, transportation and logistics, public sector , oil and gas, Banking and financial services , manufacturing and education among others. In terms of geography, the Wi-Fi Extender market can be segmented into five geographies namely North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East & Africa (MEA) and Latin America.Obtain Report Details @Increased usage of wi-fi extenders in smart devices and increase in investment on smart devices by the key vendors across the globe has contributed to the growth of wi-fi extenders market.. Moreover,the concept of smart cities and smart buildings and connected cities are also going to drive the demand in wi-fi extender market. Due to these concept there is an increase in demand of public wi-fi networks, for safety management, waste and water management, traffic management, healthcare management and infrastructure management among others Increased deployment of LTE technology in the telecommunications industry is a major factor driving the expansion of the Wi-Fi Extender market. Increased technological need to reduce the data cost and increased usage of internet and internet based applications are also important factors prompting the expansion of the Wi-Fi Extender market. Rapid expansion and development of the consumer electronics industry, safety and defense industry has set a trend that is making way for new business opportunities. This, in turn, is driving the expansion of the Wi-Fi Extender market globally. Increasing awareness of various technological modifications is a key factor driving the demand for Wi-Fi Extender in the market.. Fast-changing trends and consumer preferences such as customization and industry-specific testing services are key factors that have led to the rise in demand for Wi-Fi Extender in the market. Furthermore, increased demand for cloud computing services and applications is playing a vital role in the expansion of the Wi-Fi Extender market.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Wi-Fi Extender Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market@By geography, Wi-Fi Extenders market has been segmented into five regions as Asia-Pacific (APAC), North America, Europe, South America and Middle East & Africa (MEA). North America is the dominant segment in the global Wi-Fi Extender market followed by South America and Asia Pacific (APAC). In terms of revenue and market share, North America leads the market globally. Expansion of the telecommunications and network industry and rise of regional players has led to the expansion of the Wi-Fi Extender market. The U.S. is expanding consistently in the Wi-Fi Extender market. APAC is a rapidly expanding segment in the Wi-Fi Extender market. The U.S. is among the leading contributors to the North America Wi-Fi Extender market.The top players in the market include Cisco Systems, Inc, Alcatel-Lucent, Aruba Networks, Ericsson, Netgear, Ruckus Wireless, Juniper Networks, Motorola Solutions and others. Apart from top players in the market, the Wi-Fi market report also covers small and mid-sized vendors such as Arqiva, WiFi Spark, C-3 Wireless, Digital Wireless, Aeroscot, Acrylic, Fluke Networks, Intello, Dvois, Airangel, Connect 802, Purple Wi-Fi, TIS ltd, Transbeam, and others. Key players such as Cisco and Juniper Networks offer Wi-Fi products and services for enterprises, service providers, and indoor and outdoor networks.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. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e 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, chemical, 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, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Smart Grid Security Market: Advanced technologies & growth opportunities in global Industry by 2026

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Smart Grids are an integration of traditional grid with IT systems. They offer the grid operators greater control of the utilities for improving the dependability with improved monitoring and efficiency, through information exchange.The cloud-based smart grid applications provide organizations with several features to reduce the operational costs and also to centralize their resources. The cloud-based applications are exposed to cyber-attacks, consequential in several security firms offering security solutions to guard cloud-based applications from cyber-attacks. The target audience for smart grid security market are, national/state governments, utility companies, IT solutions provider, smart grid security companies, cloud service providers, system integrators, information security consulting firms, IT security agencies, and municipal authorities.Cyber threats and their impacts are rapidly increasing across Europe. Currently, EU is working on some of the fronts to guarantee cyber security in Europe, by providing the delivery of enhanced internet for children, and implementing the international cooperation on cyber security and cybercrime.Obtain Report Details @The primary factors driving the smart grid security market are the global development of smart grids and augmented complexity of cyber-attacks. The smart grid security market is growing rapidly due to the increasing security needs of Internet of Things (IoT) and digitalization in the energy sector and increased utilization of the web & cloud-based business application.However, one of the greatest challenges in the smart grid security market is the long investment cycles in the energy sector that make technology assessment difficult and led to a time lag between implemented and up-to-date solutions.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Smart Grid Security Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market@Professional services segment is anticipated to have the largest market size in 2016. The energy and utility companies lack security experts and are outsourcing these services to security vendors. Further, the demand for professional services is high due to the need to address emerging cyber threats.The need to secure the data, network infrastructure, and connected devices are anticipated to surge the demand for smart grid security market during the forecast period. The encryption solution is anticipated to grow at the highest grow rate during the forecast period.North America is anticipated to account for the largest market share in 2016 owing to the technological advancements and early adoption of cyber security and region. APEJ is expected to grow at the highest growth rate during the forecast period owing to the factors such as growth in the technological adoption and huge opportunities across emerging power industries in APEJ region.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. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e 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, chemical, 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, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Industrial PC Market : Brand Analysis and Forecast upto 2024

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An Industrial PC is a PC-based computing podium used in various industrial applications. It is mainly used for data acquisition or process control, and in some cases, it is simply used as a face off to another control computer placed in a separate processing environment. The value chain of the industrial PC market comprises of five key phases starting with research and development (R&D), followed by the assembly phase, then manufacturing, in sequence comes distribution, and complete with post-sales services. Among all the aspects as mentioned above, most important phase include the research and development as well as assembly of industrial PCs. The designing of these PCs are built on their practice in numerous industries which includes automotive, industrial applications, aerospace, defense or oil and gas, among others, and the other factor influences designing of industrial PC is the environment where it will be installed.Industrial PC Market: Market Dynamics and RestraintsMajorly, due to the growing rate of technological advancement in software and hardware is possible to fuel the interest among industries, this is directly driving the market of industrial PC market globally. The key factor that influences the market growth worldwide includes industrial PCs flexible property to withstand intimidating conditions in an industrial set-up. Among other industrial PCs Panel PC adhere scalability advantage, products such as Fanless Panel PC has earned the distinction of working at an advanced proficiency with nominal energy consumption.Although demand and necessity of Industrial PC in the automotive market can be seen significantly, technical and policy challenges can affect the market. Technical and policy challenge such as the swift switch of control between driver and vehicle mode, reliability concern, cybersecurity issue from time to time can generate a gap between end user need and industrial PC manufacturer offerings; this hinders the market growth to a certain extent.Obtain Report Details @Industrial PC Market: Market SegmentationThe global Industrial PC market is segmented based on the industrial PC types, end user types, data storage media types, touch screen technology types and sales channels type.Based on the types of industrial PC, industrial PC market is segmented into:Panel Industrial PCBox Industrial PCEmbedded Industrial PCDIN Rail Industrial PCRack Mount Industrial PCThin Client Industrial PCBased on the end user type, industrial PC market is segmented into:IndustrialTraffic and transportationFood and BeveragesHealthcareTelecomDefenseEnergy and PowerChemicalOil and GasAutomotiveSemiconductor and ElectronicsBased on the data storage media type, industrial PC market is segmented into:RotatingSolid StateBased on the touch screen technology type, industrial PC market is segmented into:ResistiveCapacitiveOthersBased on the sales channel types, industrial PC market is segmented into:Direct SalesIndirect SalesOnlineOfflineGet accurate market forecast and analysis on the Industrial PC Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market@Industrial PC Market: Regional OutlookRegarding geography, the global industrial PC market has been categorized into seven key regions including North and Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, and the Middle East & Africa. The industrial PC market is globally expected to register healthy CAGR during the forecast period. Despite soft economy, Eastern and Western Europe are the leading regions in Industrial PC market, this is due to established technologically advanced industries in the region which are laced with smart network system provided by industrial PCs. The second leading region is Asia-Pacific excluding Japan, as countries including China, India is the developing countries where growth in industrialization is undertaken at the faster pace, these industries adhere advanced network system which is provided by industrial PCs. Japan, Middle East, and Africa are predicted to acquire the industrial PC market in the near future.Industrial PC Market PlayersSome of the players in global industrial PC market include Rockwell Automation, Advantech, Siemens, and Beck Hoff Automation. Merger and acquisition is the latest trend happening among the key and entrant companies of industrial PC market. Other players in industrial PC market are Dell, ABernecker & Rainer, Captec Group, Industrial Computers, and dlink Technology.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.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. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e 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, chemical, 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, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Russia, Iran and the United States are drawing new red lines for each other in Syria, with Moscow warning Washington on Monday it would treat any U.S.-led coalition planes in its area of operations as potential targets after the U.S. air force downed a Syrian jet.

Tensions escalated on Sunday as the U.S. army brought down the jet near Raqqa and Iran launched missiles at Islamic State group targets in eastern Syria - the first time each state has carried out such actions in the multi-sided Syrian war. A pro-Damascus commander said Tehran and Washington were drawing "red lines".

Russia, like Iran an ally of President Bashar al-Assad, issued a warning of its own to the United States in response to the downing of the Syrian jet, saying on Monday it would view as targets any planes flying west of the Euphrates River, though it stopped short of saying it would shoot any down.

The incidents reflect mounting competition for areas of Syria where Islamic State group (IS group) insurgents are in retreat, leaving swathes of territory up for grabs and posing the question of what comes next for U.S. policy that is shaped first and foremost by the priority of vanquishing the jihadists.

The United States said the Syrian army plane shot down on Sunday had dropped bombs near fighters of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters battling to capture the city of Raqqa from IS group.

Russia's Defence Ministry responded on Monday by suspending cooperation with the United States aimed at avoiding air incidents over Syria, where the Russian air force is bombing in support of Assad's campaigns against rebels and IS group.

The Syrian army said the jet was shot down while flying a mission against Islamic State group.

The SDF however accused the Syrian government on Monday of attacking its positions using planes, artillery and tanks. "If the regime continues attacking our positions in Raqqa province, we will be forced to retaliate," SDF spokesman Talal Silo said.

The Syrian government this month marched into Raqqa province from the west but had avoided conflict with the U.S.-backed SDF until the latest incident.

"The SDF is getting big-headed," said the pro-Damascus military commander, a non-Syrian who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. "There could be problems between it and Soheil Hassan," said the commander, referring to the Syrian officer leading the government offensive in Raqqa province.

Iran Sends "Clear Message"

The United States has said its recent actions against Syrian government forces and allied militia have been self-defensive in nature, aimed at stopping attacks on U.S.-led coalition forces or their local allies.

These have included several air strikes against pro-government forces that have sought to advance towards a U.S. military base in southeastern Syria near the border with Iraq, where the U.S. military has been training rebels to fight IS group.

The area is of strategic significance to Tehran as it seeks to secure a land corridor to its allies in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon and establish a "Shia crescent" of influence that has long concerned U.S.-allied states in the Middle East.

The missiles fired by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday targeted IS group in Deir al-Zor province, fast becoming the jihadists' last remaining foothold in Syria and a declared military priority of Tehran's allies in the Syrian government.

The attacks have showcased the depth of Iran's military presence in Syria: Iranian drones launched from areas around Damascus allowed Revolutionary Guard commanders to assess the damage done by the missiles in real-time.

Two top Revolutionary Guard commanders said that the strikes were intended to send a message to the perpetrators of militant attacks in Tehran last week - claimed by Islamic State group - that killed 18 people, as well as their supporters.

"I hope that the clear message of this attack will be understood by the terrorists as well as their regional and international supporters," said Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Revolutionary Guards' aerospace unit, according to the website of Iranian state television.

Six missiles with a range of between 650 to 700 kilometres (400-435 miles) were fired from western Iran, soaring over Iraqi territory and striking the targets in Deir al-Zor.

State TV posted black and white aerial video on their website on Monday which they labelled as the moment of impact of the attack. A projectile can be seen hitting a building followed by thick black smoke billowing out. State TV repeatedly aired video footage of the beginning of the attack Monday, showing several missiles streaking across a dark night sky.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif defended the attack in a Twitter post on Monday. "Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defence & advances common global fight to eradicate (IS group) & extremist terror," he wrote.

Other Iranian officials were more blunt in their assessment of the attack. "This attack, before being a message for the terrorists, is a message for the supporters of terrorism in the region which are symbolized by the Saudi regime and the Americans," the state television website quoted Iranian parliamentarian Javad Karimi Qoddousi as saying.

Analysts say that more robust U.S. military action in Syria since President Donald Trump took office in January has resulted from his decision to give the military more autonomy in how it pursues the war on Islamic State group.

"The (Syrian) regime is always testing and pushing the boundaries," said Yezid Sayigh, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut.

"I don't think the Americans are testing the red lines. They are saying 'we have a red line here and if you are going to test it we will respond, but it doesn't mean we are now shifting strategy' because they also want to reassure the Russians."

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Bluetooth Speaker Market: Industry Analysis, Opportunity Assessment and Forecast upto 2027

Bluetooth Speaker Market

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Bluetooth speakers make use of audio signals with low power radio waves without making use of audio cables. Technically these speakers are portable audio devices which are used for exchange of data, for which the receiver have to be within defined range of wireless transfer capability of the sender. Bluetooth speaker devices includes devices such as AC-only Bluetooth speakers, DC-only Bluetooth speakers, and AC/DC Bluetooth speakers. These Bluetooth speakers are composed of main speaker unit including loudspeaker with Radio frequency (RF) receiver with Radio Frequency transmitter unit.These transmitters are connected to audio output devices that includes computers, televisions, MP3 players, mobile phones, and others. The receiver is positioned in such a way that the listener can move around without any usage of cables. For Bluetooth speakers amplifiers are used to enhance the signal strength and supply the audio signals to the loudspeakers. The signal frequency used by the Bluetooth speakers is approximately 900 MHz and can travel across the walls and ceilings. Nowadays Bluetooth speakers have wide applications in home theaters wherein the speakers on the rear side operate on Bluetooth signals and the speakers on the front side are sometimes wired or operate on Bluetooth signals. Interestingly Bluetooth signals have reduced the cost of wires and cables that were used for electronic devices and grown to have a larger market demand in the electronic segment.Obtain Report Details @Global Bluetooth Speaker Market  Drivers and RestraintsThe Global Bluetooth Speaker Market is mainly driven by its increase in demand in electronic segments such as home theatres, mobile phones, music systems, computers, laptops and many others. The market is also driven by the fact that increasing in demand for multi-room streaming. Companies are investing in R&D to keep an eye on improvising the battery life of the connecting devices and to improvise on the efficiency from previous versions of the devices. Global Bluetooth Market has wide market opportunity in tapping the economies that are emerging in countries like Africa. Also the new advents on how to improvise the efficiency of the device and proper connectivity could bring in demand for the Global Bluetooth market. Improver disconnectivity amongst the devices and major dropping of the batteries in devices like mobiles and laptops has restrained the Global Bluetooth market.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Bluetooth Speaker Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market@Global Bluetooth Speaker Market  SegmentationThe Global Bluetooth Speaker Market is segmented based on by aircraft type, by battery type, and by end market, and by sales channel.Global Bluetooth Speaker Market by charging technologyAC OnlyDC OnlyAC/DCWireless ChargingGlobal Bluetooth Speaker Market by ApplicationOfficesRetailEducational InstitutionsLeisureOtherGlobal Bluetooth Speaker Market  Region Wise OutlookThe Global Bluetooth Speaker Market is divided into seven regions namely North America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, Japan, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. North America is expected to lead the global Bluetooth speaker market. Europe is on the list of second for this market because of the rapid innovations happening in electronic industry. However, Asia Pacific excluding Japan shows a decent growth over the forecast. China, since its a manufacturing hub of electronics signifies growth for APEJ. Middle East and Africa has a lesser market share in the Global Bluetooth speaker market.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. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e 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, chemical, 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, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Aircraft De-icing Market Research Report by Regional Analysis, Key Players, Share, Size and forecast 2024

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Aircraft de-icing is outlined as removal of snow, ice, or frost from the surface of an aircraft. De-icing is usually tailed by anti-icing, a process of inhibiting further accumulation of ice or frost for a limited holdover time. De-icing can be achieved with the use of heat, by mechanical methods, or by using aircraft de-icing fluids (ADFs). In situations like icy conditions on ground, aircraft de-icing is required. Due to frozen impurities, control surfaces of an aircraft get uneven, unsettling smooth air flow, and deeply degrading the power of the wing to generate lift, as well as increasing drag. This situation may cause a crash. Hence, de-icing plays a crucial role in the aircraft industry.The global aircraft de-icing market is experiencing massive growth at present, due to clean airplane concept, modernization and expansion of existing airports, technological advancements, increasing need for passengers comfort, and flight delays during snowfall. Need for maintaining the safety of airport operations during icy weather conditions is also a reason for adoption of aircraft de-icing. An airplane is manufactured by considering the probable consequences of flow of air on standard wings. Impurities such as snow, ice, or frost on wings disturb this airflow, causing reduced lift, risen drag, and probably, unusual pitch characteristics. Hence, a concept called clean airplane has been introduced. On account of this concept, takeoff is prohibited when snow, frost, or ice adheres to airplane wings, propellers, or control surfaces. The clean airplane concept is expected to be a major driver for the global aircraft de-icing market. Requirements for lucrative initial investments and new regulatory measures on the collection and treatment requirements for de-icing discharges are anticipated to obstruct the global aircraft de-icing market. Development and speedy transformation of airports around the world are also estimated to offer growth opportunities to the major players operating in the market.Obtain Report Details @The global aircraft de-Icing market has been segmented on the basis of aircraft types, applications, fluid types, equipment, systems, and geographic regions. Based on aircraft types, the market has been segmented into fixed wing aircraft i.e., regional aircraft, military aircraft, wide-body aircraft, and narrow-body aircraft. Furthermore, aircraft de-icing fluids (ADFs) have been broadly categorized as type I, II, III, and IV. Demand for type-I and type-IV ADFs is likely to rise constantly in Asia Pacific and North America. Use of type-II fluids is projected to be significant in Europe. On the basis of equipment, the market has been divided into sweeper equipment, de-icing trucks, and other equipment. Various systems used in the global aircraft de-icing market include rotor-blade ice-protection system, electrothermal ice-protection system, pneumatic ice-protection system, and electromechanical ice-protection system. On the basis of geographies, the market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW). North America is expected to dominate the global market, followed by Europe. This is attributable to the prevailing climatic conditions and increase in demand for aircraft de-icing.Key players operating in the global aircraft de-icing market are Denge Airport Equipment, Vestergaard Company, UTC Aerospace Systems, Cox & Company, Laanga Industrial, Sdi Aviation, Weihai Guangtai, Airport Equipment Co., Cox & Company, The Dow Chemical Company, and Global Ground Support LLC.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Aircraft De-icing Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this 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.The study is a source of reliable data on:Market segments and sub-segmentsMarket trends and dynamicsSupply and demandMarket sizeCurrent trends/opportunities/challengesCompetitive landscapeTechnological breakthroughsValue chain and stakeholder analysisThe regional analysis covers:North America (U.S. and Canada)Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, and others)Western Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Nordic countries, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)Eastern Europe (Poland and Russia)Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand)Middle East and Africa (GCC, Southern Africa, and North Africa)The report has been compiled through extensive primary research (through interviews, surveys, and observations of seasoned analysts) and secondary research (which entails reputable paid sources, trade journals, and industry body databases). The report also features a complete qualitative and quantitative assessment by analyzing data gathered from industry analysts and market participants across key points in the industrys value chain.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. We have an experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, who us e 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, chemical, 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, our syndicated reports thrive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.ContactTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Microbial Protein Production Services Market 20167Industry, Analysis, Research, Share, Growth, Sales, Trends, Supply, Forecast to 2025

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Protein expression, purification and large scale production is achieved by manipulation in the gene expression process of an organism such that it is able to express large amounts of a recombinant gene. It is not a trivial task and faces a huge competition in the market because of the fragmented scenario over the globe. Fermenters and bioreactors with different expression system capabilities, purity options, quality control and the production timeline differentiate various services available in the market. Various organizations have developed their own in-house methods of production and purification. Bacterial and yeast systems are mostly used in case of microbial protein production process because of simple physiology, short generation times and high yield of product, both having their own advantages and disadvantages. Among bacterial, E. coli has been most widely used for recombinant protein expression and production. Clients can use the service for the manufacture of either the regular proteins whose gene sequence is available in the public domain or can manufacture its customized gene expressionGet accurate market forecast and analysis on the Microbial Protein Production Services Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.Producing recombinant proteins is often the limiting and most expensive step in life science research. Expression yield of recombinant proteins vary by orders of magnitudes from protein to protein reflecting the difference in the cost of production process. These services are more preferred due to the increasing customization in the genetic sequences. Microbial protein production services also involves the use of various types of tags for purification purposes such as FLAG-tag, His-tag, Fc-fusion tag, GST-tag, Myc-tag, HA-tag, MBP-tag and others.Microbial Protein Production Services Market: Drivers & RestraintsIncrease in the number of applications of microbial proteins such as the increasing enzymatic applications and their requirement in various industries, increase in the production of bio-pharmaceuticals like monoclonal antibodies, hepatitis B vaccine and HPV vaccine are increasing the need of microbial protein production services to meet the demand. Recent advances in proteomics and rapid growth in protein drug market also constantly increasing the market of pure and active proteins. Increasing number of CROs also fuels the services market. One of the limiting factor for the growth is not possessing the same capability as eukaryotic cells for protein glycosylation and other post-translational modifications and thus limits its applications. Increasing regulatory pressure on CROs, high cost involved, lack of skilled manpopwer, infrastructure and skilled expertise may also restricts the growth.Microbial Protein Production Services Market: SegmentationBy Production Type:Bacterial Protein ExpressionYeast Protein ExpressionOther microbial protein expressionBy Service Type:Customized ProductionRegular ProductionBy End User:Pharmaceutical IndustryBiotechnology CompaniesFood and Feed IndustryResearch OrganizationsAcademic InstitutesBy GeographyNorth AmericaEuropeLatin AmericaAsia-PacificMiddle East and AfricaMicrobial protein production services constitutes of companies and research organizations engaged in protein production and purification services. Bio therapeutic protein and vaccine manufacturers faces various challenges related to time and cost in the drug discovery and development process. The service units take only the protein sequence and adjust the amount and purity required for protein production. These type of services help in saving time and cost to accomplish the research needs. Competitive prices of different products and the quality differentiates the market players. Continuous innovations and improvements in the protein expression systems are the need of the market. Various mergers and partnership deals in this sector also fuels the market such as Ewos recently offered a US $30 million funding package to Calysta which is planning to manufacture novel high quality microbial proteins for the fish feed industry in the UK.View Report @geographic condition regarding the Microbial Protein Production Services Market, it has been segmented into five key regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa. With large number of research organizations and usage in number of applications in various industries, North America depicts an established market for these services. Extensive competition is faced by the European countries because of the excellent number of contract research organizations and established network of universities and research institutions in the region. Asia Pacific is the growing market because of establishment of more biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries and opening of more contract research organizations. Moreover, low cost manufacturing also attracts the market in this region.Some of the market players in the microbial protein production service market includes Wacker, Chemie AG, Icosagen, Sino Biological, GenScript, LP3 Labs, Lonza, Biomatik, GenWay Biotech, Inc., Olympic Protein Technologies, Amid Biosciences and many others.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:
Blood Transfusion Analyzers Market Report 2017

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Blood transfusion is the commonly used procedure for intravenous administration of blood to a person to replace lost blood. A needle is inserted in a blood vessel to transfer blood obtained from a healthy donor. Blood transfusion is generally used to replace blood lost due to surgery or serious injury, and also in cases of diseases wherein blood formation is inadequate or inefficient. The blood transfusion market is expected to witness dynamic growth due to improving health care facilities and technological advancement in blood collection and safety in transfusion process. Blood transfusion is used as a lifesaving intervention for several chronic diseases. Increase in geriatric population, rising cancer therapies, emergence of infectious diseases (HIV and hepatitis), and significant rise in surgical procedures also drive the global blood transfusion market. In addition, strict government regulations across the world are boosting market growth. According to the International Diabetes Federation (2014), the percentage of population suffering from diabetes across the globe would increase by 53% from 2014 to 2035.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Blood Transfusion Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.Threat of spurt in new infections and infectious diseases that originate through the blood donation route are the major restraints of the blood transfusion market. Infectious diseases such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and hepatitis are the two major concerns that pose a threat to blood supply. Moreover, blood cannot be manufactured and can only be obtained from donors for transfusion. Hence, shortage of donors is likely to hamper the growth of the blood transfusion market. For instance, about 38% of population is eligible for blood donation, but only 10% of it actually go for blood donation. Lack of skilled professionals to handle the blood collection and transfusion procedure is another factor that may restraints the blood transfusion market, especially in underdeveloped or low income countries.The blood transfusion market can be segmented based on transfusion type, product type, application, end-user, and region. In terms of transfusion type, the market can be categorized into red blood cell transfusion, platelet transfusion, and plasma transfusion. Based on product type, the blood transfusion market can be divided into blood bags, transfusion sets, and other accessories. In terms of application, the market can be segmented into trauma & surgery, blood disorders, kidney disease, and others. Based on blood disorders, the market can be categorized into leukemia, sickle cell anemia, and others. In terms of end-user, the blood transfusion market can be segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, specialized clinics, and others.View Report @Geographically, the blood transfusion market can be segmented broadly into five main regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America dominates the market, attributed to increasing prevalence of diseases and rising population requiring blood transfusion. According to the American National Red Cross (blood services), the U.S requires about 36,000 units of red blood cells per day, while about 21 million blood transfusions are carried out per year. Moreover, the blood transfusion market in North America is driven by increasing demand from aging population for blood products and rise in complex surgical procedures such as open heart and orthopedic surgeries. The market in Europe and Asia Pacific is expected to expand rapidly due to rise in demand for blood transfusions, increased level of awareness, government support, and advancements in blood collection technologies.Key players in the blood transfusion market are B. Braun Medical Inc., Macopharma, Inc., Coagulation Sciences LLC, NIPRO, and Terumo Corporation.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:
Hyperbilirubinaemia Drugs Market Size, Status and Forecast 2025

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Hyperbilirubinaemia is a condition in which a certain percentage of bilirubin increases in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the normal catabolic pathway that leads to breakage of heme (iron) in vertebrates. There are two types of blood cells  red blood cells and white blood cells. When red blood cells break down, bilirubin is formed. Hyperbilirubinaemia is also called jaundice. Jaundice is derived from Jaune, which is a French word that means yellow. Hyperbilirubinaemia first appears when a baby is born or at any time after birth. Hyperbilirubinaemia affects both babies and adults. The treatment for jaundice depends on the underlying causes. Complications faced by a newborn during jaundice include high pitched crying, fever, vomiting, and backward arching of the neck and head. Liver failure, kidney failure, anemia, bleeding, and chronic hepatitis are some complications of jaundice manifested in adults.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Hyperbilirubinaemia Drugs Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.On the basis of diagnosis, hyperbilirubinaemia is segmented into two parts  neonatal jaundice and adult jaundice. Neonatal jaundice is diagnosed with the help of phototherapy, intravenous immune globin, and exchange transfusion. For adults, hyperbilirubinaemia can be diagnosed with drugs like albumin human 25% intravenous, Plasbumin 25% intravenous, Albuminar 25% intravenous, Flexbumin 25% intravenous, Albutein 5% intravenous, etc. Hyperbilirubinaemia is however more prevalent in infants and therefore precautionary measures are adopted by both parents and physicians to diagnose and treat the disease carefully. Governments and public health agencies are arranging seminars, continuous medical education (CME), and training mothers to look out for neonatal jaundice. Increasing number of infant deaths, congenital infection, food habits, and lifestyle are some factors that drag the hyperbilirubinaemia drugs market. The improper establishment of protocol for nursing assessment of jaundice, including testing of TcB and TSB without physician involvement, and inaccurate test result of hyperbilirubinaemia in blood are some factors that hinder the market growth. Development of new vaccines and oral drugs are the need of the hour in under developing countries in order to expand the market.View Report @Geographically, the hyperbilirubinaemia drugs market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World. North America is the predominant market due to well-established health care infrastructure, demand for premium priced drugs, and swift marketing approvals of the drugs. In North America, launch of various drugs with newer targets and increasing penetration of already marketed drugs in various geographical regions could drive the market. Aging population is a major concern in Europe as the geriatric population is more prone to hyperbilirubinaemia. The European Commission (Eurostat) has estimated that the geriatric population in Europe would reach 525 million by 2035. Thus, rise in geriatric population indicate the forecast of a big market size. Multinational companies are making significant investments in emerging economies in Asia to penetrate untapped markets. Growing population and unhinged food intake are major factors that drive the market in India for hyperbilirubinaemia drugs. Rest of the World includes the Middle East & Africa. Changes in medical practice, presence of strong product pipeline, and increasing uptake of targeted therapies are likely to drive the hyperbilirubinaemia drugs market in the region.Some of the key companies that manufacture hyperbilirubinaemia drugs are Novo Nordisk, Human Antibiotic Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Grifols, etc.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:
Tuberculosis Therapeutic Market: Geological and Competitive Dynamics, Report Overview 2017

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Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease characterized by the growth of tubercles (small nodular lesions which particularly form in the bone or other tissues) in the lung. There are two types of tuberculosis: latent and active. In the former, the infection does not exhibit any symptoms, whereas chronic cough with blood-containing sputum, fever, and night sweat are symptoms of the latter. Tuberculosis spreads through the medium of air. Active tuberculosis occurs more often in HIV/AIDS-affected people, with diagnosis commonly done through chest x-rays and through a microscopic examination of culture body fluids. Latent tuberculosis is detected through tuberculin skin tests or blood tests. Those in prolonged and close contact with tuberculosis-infected people are at a particularly high risk to be infected themselves. A person suffering active but untreated tuberculosis could infect ten to twelve person in a year. Tuberculosis occurs worldwide and has been identified as a major factor of death.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Tuberculosis Therapeutic Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.On the basis of test, the tuberculosis therapeutic market is segmented into the diagnostic laboratory and radiographic methods. Diagnostic laboratory tests hold the maximum market share as they are highly cost-effective and easy to perform compared to radiographic tests. However, compromised accuracy and longer processing time are the two factors limiting this segment. The health care industry is therefore seeking advanced techniques to overcome these problems. Macro-economic factors, environmental factors, and the rising smokers population drive the tuberculosis therapeutic market. Advancements in x-ray systems, especially through mobile radiography and portable equipment such as the Practix 400 Plus are propelling the tuberculosis therapy market. However, multiple & specific drug resistance and the dearth of efficient lab technicians act as major restraints. In some countries, BCG vaccines are administered right in the childhood in order to fight tuberculosis. The markets for both  the vaccines as well as equipment  expand on parallel tracks. The development of new vaccines such as MVA85A, Rbcg30, and 72F fusion proteins constitutes a major share in the tuberculosis therapeutic market. There is urgent need for the development of better diagnostics owing to the rising rate of anti-tuberculosis drugs.View Report @Geographically North America and Latin America account for a prominent share in the tuberculosis therapeutic market because of the increasing awareness about the disease and its impact on human life. The higher use of BCG vaccination could further propel the market in the U.S. Europe follows the strategic guidelines provided by government bodies for its use of drugs against tuberculosis and vaccination schedules for children, which aids the expansion of the market. The tuberculosis situation in Asia Pacific, especially India, is highly critical. Every week, around ten thousand people succumb to death by tuberculosis. The revised national tuberculosis program in India plays a vital role in controlling this issue, with the growing population increasingly using vaccines and effective equipment. In Middle East & Africa, the development of additional expert MTB/RIF machines creates good scope for the market, which is also driven by the effectiveness of the national tuberculosis control program and the quality of the regions laboratory infrastructure.Sanofi Aventis, Aventis Pharmaceutical Ltd., Novartis AG, and Bayer Healthcare are key players operating in the tuberculosis therapeutic market.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:
Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market Report 2017

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Market OverviewEndoscopy innovation has changed the way of distinguishing infections and performing surgeries, with less intrusive strategies that are picking up consideration over the globe. Next generation endoscopy visualization systems is a top quality (HD) video framework utilized as a part of all sort of endoscopic surgeries. These frameworks have enhanced the nature of images and videos while seeing an extensive variety of open and insignificantly obtrusive surgical procedures and diagnostic procedures. The new generation visualization systems incorporate built-in embedded wireless video, proprietary color calibration, ergonomically sleek and lightweight designs, easy-clean sealed front panels, and medical-grade quality and durability.Get accurate market forecast and analysis on the Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market. Request a sample to stay abreast on the key trends impacting this market.Various components of next generation visualization systems include the inbuilt advanced camera (support the most advanced surgical monitor technology requirements  HD 1080p imaging color reproduction), monitor, light source, insufflators, printers, wireless displays and others. For. E.g. ELUXEO endoscopy visualization system (Fujifilm) is fueled by novel 4-LED multi-light innovation that joins distinctive wavelengths coupled with intensified light spectra made by an incorporated light source. This enables professionals or surgeons to effectively switch between three imaging modes: blue light imaging (BLI), white light (WL), and linked color imaging (LCI). Each and every light source uses a specific light range to enhance the representation of particular structures in the gastrointestinal tract. It is a quick moving field, and new procedures are ceaselessly developing. In late decades, endoscopy has advanced and fanned out from asymptomatic methodology to improved video and computer helping imaging technology with amazing interventional capacities. The cutting-edge endoscopy has seen progress in sorts of endoscopes accessibility. To date, there are significantly more advancements that are being trialed such as, manufacturers are more focused on making the advanced 4K UHD imaging compatibility coupled with digital automated imaging systems.Drivers & RestraintsAdvanced endoscopy imaging system makers are significantly centered on propelling novel endoscopy designs keeping in mind the end goal to achieve advancement in the worldwide endoscopy visualization systems market during the forecast period. Organizations are likewise more mindful on a coordinated effort by procuring local and worldwide players to grow their item portfolios and support their appropriation diverts in developing markets. For e.g. manufacturers like Fujifilm, Pentax Medical, Olympus and other top players are more focused on expanding the use of such devices in healthcare facilities with high-end technologies. New endoscopy visualization systems are supported to inspect a few sort of illness signs, for e.g. cancer, gastrointestinal disorder, gynecological disorder, lung disorder, nephrology and urological disorder and others with its broader utilization of such systems in hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. The elderly population is at a higher risk of such diseases coupled with growth in the number of such cases, the demand for next generation endoscopy systems is expected to generate a higher revenue in the market consistently. Growing demand for the next generation endoscopy visualization systems market is relied upon to increment at a noteworthy development rate. With mechanical headway, low-cost endoscopic procedures and diagnosis, expanded request of insignificantly minimally invasive surgeries, quick recuperation, access to technicians and healthcare professionals for e.g. 3D frameworks with HD innovation, developing access to prepared clinicians and rising healthcare consumption in developing markets, this market is foreseen to grow at a healthier CAGR during the forecast period (2017-2025). Industry specialists plan these embellishments using the high review standard material with a top of the line innovation. Manufacturers are mainly focused for the most part centered on the most elevated conceivable patient security and usability. Broad R&D interests in the healthcare services industry by top market players, rising interest for cutting edge bleeding edge innovations, and extension of private healing facilities and recovery focuses in remote territories are the central point driving the development of the next generation endoscopy visualization systems. The high cost of innovatively propelled endoscopy system is one of the real difficulties in the worldwide market, particularly in developing nations. Additionally, an absence of access to essential surgical areas is similarly low. New materials may unite biocompatibility and hardware issues. Also, factors like regulatory approval process and cut in healthcare spending withstand the key restraints for the endoscopy visualization system market during the forecast period.Global Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market: SegmentationThe Global Ventilators Market market can be segmented as follows:Global Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market: By ProductHigh End Visualization SystemMiddle End Visualization SystemLow End Visualization SystemGlobal Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market, by End UserHospitalsAmbulatory Surgery CentresSpecialty ClinicsDiagnostic Imaging CentresGlobal Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market: Regional OutlookGeographically, the global next generation endoscopy visualization systems market is segmented into five regions, namely North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific & the Middle East and Africa (MEA). North America (U.S) and European region have dominated the overall next generation endoscopy visualization systems market, largely owing to the continuously rising number of gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, and others. Favorable medical reimbursement scenario, which makes expensive surgical procedures affordable.View Report @Growing trend of oligopoly purchasing of equipment, i.e., buying more products from fewer manufacturers, the appropriation of design and technology inside the endoscopy space coupled with solid brand awareness has turned into a need in the modern time to increase the market share. Currently, Asia-Pacific region has also enhanced the growth rate during the forecast period. The rate of efficiency is mainly attributed due to rising technological advancement, increase in disposable income and the consequent rise in diseases, growing awareness, and surging health care expenditure by the government in the healthcare industry may have an additional positive impact on next generation endoscopy visualization systems market.Global Next Generation Endoscopy Visualization Systems Market: Key PlayersThe key players in the next generation endoscopy visualization systems market are:Olympus CorporationHoya CorporationFujifilm Holding CorporationNDS Surgical Imaging, LLC.Olive Medical CorporationKARL STORZ GmbH & Co. KGCONMED CorporationRichard Wolf GmbHAbout 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:
At least 16 people died in a double suicide bombing near a large camp for people made homeless by years of Boko Haram violence, Nigeria's emergency services and locals said Monday.

The bombing was one of a series of attacks in the conflict-hit region on Sunday which killed a total of 24 people, most of them civilians.

In the attack, which took place on Sunday evening, two women blew themselves up in Kofa village which houses a large camp for those displaced by Boko Haram violence, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said.

"They killed 16 people," said regional NEMA spokesman Abdulkadir Ibrahim. Kofa lies about 15 kilometres (nine miles) southeast of Maiduguri, capital of Borno state.

Local residents gave an initial toll of 12 or 13 dead but the spokesman said three of the wounded had died of their injuries in hospital.

At around the same time, two more explosions occurred inside the nearby Dalori 2 camp which is home to some 10,000 people, he said, indicating it was caused by another two female bombers.

Several people were wounded but only the attackers died, he said, without saying how many were hurt.

Dalori is home to two camps which together provide shelter for some 50,000 people displaced by the violence between Boko Haram and the Nigerian army.

It is one of the largest camps for internally displaced people (IDP) in this remote region.

It is not the first time Boko Haram has tried to target the camp: in January last year, at least 85 people were killed when insurgents rampaged through communities near Dalori.

The latest attack is the most deadly in Nigeria since June 8, when 11 people were killed in a rare combined gun and suicide attack in the Jiddari Polo area of Maiduguri.



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An Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist alliance claimed responsibility Monday for an attack on a tourist resort near Mali's capital that left five people dead, including members of a European Union mission to the country.

The Group to Support Islam and Muslims, a fusion of jihadist groups with previous Al-Qaeda links, said in a statement three of its "martyrs" had killed Westerners in Sunday's assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort.

The group, also known as Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen in Arabic, said the attackers were from the Fula ethnic group and battled for "many hours" at the popular eco-lodge near Bamako, which it termed a site of "debauchery".

Their statement was quickly picked up by extremist monitor SITE and two Mauritanian news agencies known for reporting on the region's jihadist activity, after being posted on the group's Telegram channel.

Three foreigners, a Malian civilian and a Malian soldier were killed in the latest high-profile assault in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

Witnesses said EU and UN staff raised the alert to speed up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when the shooting began at Kangaba.

Some assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest), according to other witnesses interviewed.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, speaking in Luxembourg, confirmed two of the victims were EU staff, a Portuguese soldier who was training troops in the Malian army and a Malian woman.

Prosecutor Boubacar Sidiky Samake said other victims were a Chinese man, a Malian woman and a Portuguese man who died from bullet wounds, while a man from Cameroon died of a heart attack at the scene.

Samake also announced that a criminal investigation has been opened and that Kalashnikovs, a pistol and ammunition had been retrieved from the site of the atttack.

At least four suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed during the incident, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

Traore said 36 hostages, mostly French and Malian, were freed, but around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the eco-lodge Monday.

Kangaba is known to be popular with expatriates. The Portuguese soldier who died was among off-duty members of the EU's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country.

A Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

Among those saved Sunday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to the security ministry.

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako.

Samake said Monday that the Kangaba attack "bore all the hallmarks" of the Radisson Blu assault.

That siege, which left 20 people dead, led to the government imposing a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners.

In January, Kangaba's owner Herve Depardieu had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

In a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

In 2012, Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

Since then, jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels that aimed to tackle some of the grievances held by separatists in the north.

Despite the presence of the 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission and French troops serving in a separate counter-terrorism force operating across the Sahel region, instability is growing.

France is pressing the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution to fund and support a new African anti-jihadist force in the Sahel, comprising troops from Mali, Niger, Chad, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.

But Washington says the resolution is too vague. As the leading financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, it also wants to tighten spending.

After paying homage to victims, African Union Commission (AU) Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat on Monday described "the crucial importance of the Security Council's support to the collective efforts of the countries of the region," referring to the proposed resolution.

Mogherini, who has promised 50 million euros ($56 million) to back the new force, said Monday that Europeans and Africans were "brothers and sisters" in the fight against terror.



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Siglo Modern Filipino celebrates its first anniversary by continuing to inspire adventurous foodies looking for that authentic Pinoy experience by traveling the Philippines through food.

Siglo (which means century in Tagalog), brings one hundred years of culture and cooking with Filipino heritage recipes from all over Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Besides supporting local farmers, we love how they promote the use of heirloom ingredients like adlai, batuan, siling labuyo, and barako into their dishes.

Located in the popular weekend getaway of Tagaytay, heres what to expect at Siglo Modern Filipino as we try some of their new dishes and bestsellers on the menu

Siglo Modern Filipino

3500 Calamba Road, Sungay West, Tagaytay City, Philippines

Contact: (02) 584 4090

E-mail: siglomodernfilipino@gmail.com

Facebook: siglomodernfilipinotagaytay

Website: www.viewparkhotel.com

Siglo is located near View Park Hotel, a mere thirty steps away from Picnic Grove in Tagaytay.

They also have a Sari-Sari store the offers pasalubong goodies from all over the Philippines.

You can find items such as turmeirc tea, oyster mushroom chicharon, pancit hab-hab, jacobina, buko tarts, and signature shirts from Tagaytay.

One of the must-have items you should take home when going to Tagaytay are Amiras Buco Tartsone of the best Ive tasted.

The restaurant has an outdoor seating if youre looking to enjoy the cool Tagaytay breeze.

The indoor dining area is decorated with Filipino flare and interiors.

While waiting, you can enjoy answering some Pinoy trivia questions and puzzles.



Siglo Salad (P135)

One of their bestsellers. This isnt your normal lettuce salad, with cherry tomatoes, salted egg, kesong puti, okra, eggplant, and a mix of local heirloom ingredients that you would typically find growing around.

Heirloom ingredients used:

Pipinito  the small cucumber

Gotu Kola  the small umbrella-shaped leaf

Pansit-pansitan  the leafy vine

Bignoya  the red/pink flower often used as a souring agent

Pair this Siglo original dish with their vinaigrette reduction made from a local raspberry from the mountain province called bignay. A must-try!



Crispy Tawilis  Batangas (Php170)

A trip to Tagaytay and Batangas wont be complete unless youve tried the tawilis that can only survive in the volcanic waters of Lake Taal.

Heirloom ingredients used:

Tawilis  A fresh water sardinella endemic to Lake Taal.

Fried to golden brown crisp, you can eat the tawilis whole. Dip it in the spicy sweet vinegar sauce, mango chutney, and sukang Ilocos.

Gising Gising  Nueva Ecija (P135)

Spicy lovers will love this! Sigarilyas (winged beans) cooked with pure coconut milk, shrimp, ground pork, green chili, and sili labuyo. Im not surprised the dish is called gising-gising (wake up, wake up in English) because youll definitely wake up from that spicy kick.

Heirloom ingredients used:

Chili Labuyo  A small chili pepper native to the Philippines.

Note: The chili labuyo is spicier compared to the bigger Thai version sold in the local market.



Inadobong Pusit sa Gata (Php 230)

Baby squid in soy garlic vinegar then simmered in rich coco sauce.

Its my first time trying adobong pusit in coco sauce, and I loved the combination.



Sisiglaw (Php 220)

Heirloom ingredients used:

Chili Labuyo  A small chili pepper native to the Philippines.

Another Siglo original made of grilled liempo marinated in special sauce with pork brain. The cooking method is a combination of both the Visayan Kinilaw and Kapampangan Sisig.

I like how its less fatty compared to the typical sisig. Another must-try!



Kinilaw na Tanigue  Central Visayas (Php 260)

Heirloom ingredients used:

Chili Labuyo  A small chili pepper native to the Philippines.

I love the freshness of the fish and their spicy vinegar marinade.

Himagsikan Wings (P240)

Compared to the spicy buffalo wings, Siglos take uses honey and bagoong (shrimp paste) for the kick.

Siglo Bulalo  Batangas (Php 725 | Php 400 | Php 240). Rich and tasty beef shanks stew with corn and veggies.

For first timers, a trip to Tagaytay means having this hot steaming beef stew thats perfect for the chilly weather.

The stew was very thick and flavorful, and I like how their bulalo isnt oily, which is how you would normally get it from other establishments.

Heirloom ingredients used:

Talinum leaves  Oranamental plant withh medicinal benefits.

I also found out that they use talinum leaves instead of pechay.



Sinaingan na Tulingan  Lipa (Php 165). Mackaerel slow-cooked in a clay pot flavored with camias and spicy laing.

Did you know this slow cooked meal takes a day to finish? Cooked traditionally in a clay pot that uses the juices of the kamias fruit as the liquid and souring agent to cook the fish, Siglos version adds a Bicolano twist with spicy gata na laing. I like how both flavors work well together.

Kare Kare Classic  Pampanga (P320). Made from base of stewed oxtail, tripe, and veggies complimented with thick savory peanut sauce and homemade shrimp paste on the side.

Siglo still practices the traditional way of making kare-kare, where you manually pulverize the nuts.

LuzViMinda Fiesta Bilao (Php 1800)

The LuzViMinda Fiesta Bilao feel like youre traveling the Philippines with popular dishes from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Bagnet from Ilocos  Crispy golden brown skin with tender juicy pork.

Kare-kare lamang dagat from Pampanga  I tried the seafood version, but Id still opt for the classic version with oxtail and tripe.

Chicken Binakol from Visayas  Binakol is another Ilonggo specialty thats like tinola but with a twistusing coconut water and meat in the soup.

Lumpiang Shanghai from Negros  I liked their crispy lumpiang Shanghai.

Ubod Salad  Known as lumpiang sariwa, fresh spring roll with strachy peanut sauce.

I suggest you also try the Siglo Bilao for something more adventurous and new. Too bad they ran out of ingredients on our visit.

KKK (P90). Kamatis, Kalamansi, Karrots.

Besides all the health benefits, I like this drink for its citrusy, refreshing goodness thatll help wash out the cholesterol from all those oily dishes.

Maruya with Barako Jelly (Php 90)

Heirloom ingredient used:

Barako  Coffee from Batangas

For dessert, I like the cinnamon coated fried banana paired with their barako jelly and coffee.

Florante and Laura. Kabute sisiglaw na may tinapa rolls at gubat chips sa alugbati sauce.

(Dish to release next quarter, no price yet)

Another Siglo original presented during Madrid Fusion Manila.

Unlike a Shanghai roll, the wrap is instead filled with tinapa (smoked galungong fish) and kabute (oyster mushrooms), then topped with sisiglaw (sisig+kinilaw) then dipped in alugbati (malabar spinach) sauce.

If you are familiar with Florante and Laura, this dish is meant to represent the mix of hardship and joy in their story through the saltiness and sweetness of flavors.

The variety of kamote chips is an illustration of the forest where the first scene of Florante and Laura takes place.

Everything is best paired with their malabar sauce. Dont be surprised by the sweetness of the purple sauceit contains senorita banana and pineapples in it.

Awesome Platter

(Dish to released next quarter, no price yet)

If youre looking to sample the best of Siglo in one plate, go for this platter.

Pinalutong na Tawilis ng Talisay  Crispy tawilis that you can eat from head to tail.

Sisiglaw  Siglo original made of grilled liempo marinated in special sauce with pork brain.

Manok na binalot sa Pandan  Siglos take on the pandan chicken but using all Filipino ingredients like lemongrass and vegetarian chicken.

Pancit Pusit  Siglo version of the famous noodles from Asiongs Carinderia in Cavite. It reminds me of the Spanish paella negra or squid ink pasta but with use of bihon noodles.

Lengua Estofado  ox tongue drenched in sweet tomato sauce.

Pinakbet Con Bagnet  Ilocos mixed local vegies with their homemade bagoong sauce.

Chicken Binakol  Ilonggo specialty thats like tinola but with a twist, using coconut water and meat in the soup.

Tip: This is perfect for first timers who would want to sample each dish, so theyll know what to get the next time. I also think its a good plate to impress a date.

Youll love Siglos dishes. They only use the local ingredients with substitutes to ensure the dishes authenticity. I also love how they reinvented some of the recipes using heirloom ingredients to give them a different yet familiar twist.

Food is a big part of discovering the culture of a region. If you havent traveled the Philippines enough, Siglo can take you on a gastronomic journey with just a few bites.

Siglo Modern Filipino

3500 Calamba Road, Sungay West, Tagaytay City, Philippines

Contact: (02) 584 4090

E-mail: siglomodernfilipino@gmail.com

Facebook: siglomodernfilipinotagaytay

Website: www.viewparkhotel.com

Live an Awesome Life,

ABI of Team Our Awesome Planet

Disclosure: Our meal was courtesy of Siglo Modern Filipino. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.

P.S. While on a food trip, why not consider a staycation at View Park Hotel?
It definitely wasnt official when former Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Bob Young stated he was running for the U.S. Senate. But the emphasis was definitely very positive when Young was asked if he would mount a campaign against incumbent Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow at Mondays 2017 Fourth Congressional Republican District Breakfast.

Following his keynote address at Bucks Run, Young was asked specifically if he was going to run against Stabenow, and the immediate response was a resounding, Yes.

Its time for a change, Young said. We said goodbye to the Obamas. Its time for Debbie Stabenow to retire from 42 years of government growing and job killing policies. Debbie Stabenow loves government more than she loves us.

Describing himself as: black, conservative and Republican, Young retired from the Michigan Supreme Court in April after 18 years.

I am defined by three words almost never spoken in the English language, said Young, who was named Michiganian of the Year in 2016 by the Detroit News.

Along with his own vision for serving in Congress, Youngs address was laced with attacks on Stabenow.

Liberals like Debbie Stabenow have done everything imaginable to make us weak and the people dependent on government, said Young, who graduated from Harvard and Harvard Law. I know, I went to school with the people that trained Obama. You only have to look at Detroit and Flint to see what 50 years of liberal policy has done to those once proud, self-reliant communities.

Following his education at Harvard, Young and his wife chose to return to his hometown of Detroit as he worked in a law firm before becoming general counsel at AAA Michigan. His career in public service included becoming Michigans highest black elected official.

Our founders created a limited federal government because they understood that unchecked government deprived the people of their liberty, Young said. Ordinary people understand that our federal government is bloated and out of control. It broke our health care system. It lets our veterans die and it spends our money recklessly and attempts to regulate our every, acting decision. Debbie is the chief offender of this and its chief cheerleader.

While serving in the Michigan judiciary, Young persuaded the Michigan Legislature to right size Michigans judiciary, leading the Legislature to cut 40 judgeships over time. Since 2010, 26 of those judgeships have been cut, saving taxpayers about $15 million.

As chief justice I was a change agent who got things done. What unit of government decreases its cost and size? said Young, who was on President Donald Trumps list of judges for the recent U.S. Supreme Court vacancy.

Young also describes himself as a fierce defender of the Rule of the Law, insisting that judges follow and apply the law, not make it.

Im not a no-government person, but Im a limited government person. I want a federal government that operates within its Constitutional rights and we need leaders like (Rep. John Moolenaar) that are committed to our Constitution and not only recognize that these are government failures, but are willing to fight for change, said Young, who was the longest serving chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court.

As chief justice, Young developed initiatives to measure judicial performance, track public satisfaction and implement technologies to increase efficiency.

I want a federal government that operates within its Constitutional limits and leaves us the hell alone so we can do what Americans do best, which is to prosper, Young said.

Desiring an education of children for the realities of this century, Young would allow parents, no matter their economic level, the opportunity to send their children to the school they think best.

People like Debbie Stabenow support public school monopolies and many urban areas have turned schools, not only into bankrupt educational enterprises, but crime-ridden killing zones, Young said.

Before facing Stabenow in the November 2018 general election, Young will have to face off against fellow Republican Lana Epstein in the August 2018 primary.
BLOOMINGTON  An East Peoria woman is charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol in the death of her husband, who died following a crash Friday morning on Interstate 55 near Bloomington.

Juanita Webster, 40, was in McLean County Circuit Court on Monday to face charges that accuse her of being intoxicated and behind the wheel when emergency responders were called to the single-vehicle crash.

Killed in the accident that occurred shortly before 6:30 a.m. was Andre Webster, the driver's 37-year-old husband.

Witnesses told police the defendant was driving erratically before the accident, according to a prosecutor's statement given to a judge Saturday. The woman's blood-alcohol content was 0.164, more than twice the legal limit for intoxication in Illinois, according the prosecutor.

An autopsy indicated the victim died of blunt force head and neck injuries suffered in the crash, according to the McLean County coroner's office.

During her brief court hearing conducted via a video link with the McLean County jail, Webster told Associate Judge Bill Yoder she needed to be taken to the hospital.

But she showed no obvious signs of injury and got up and walked from the room after the hearing.

Webster was jailed in lieu of posting $50,035. A July 7 arraignment is scheduled.
BLOOMINGTON  Eastern Illinois Foodbank will have food available for eligible families from 10 to 11:30 a.m. June 24 at the Regional Alternative School, 408 W. Washington St., Bloomington.

McLean County residents who meet income eligibility criteria are welcome. Attendees are asked to bring bags or boxes to transport food.

To be eligible, a household income must be at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level, or $3,746 a month for a family of four.

The distribution is part of Eastern Illinois Foodbank's Foodmobile Program that brings food to areas of need. Through the program, local companies and organizations are invited to contribute toward a one-day distribution of food or participate in the distribution.

Eastern Illinois Foodbank works with food pantries in 17 counties, including McLean, Livingston, DeWitt, Piatt and Ford, said Kristen Bosch, vice president of development and community partnerships.

According to Feeding America, the nation's network of food banks, 14 percent of eastern Illinois residents sometimes lack adequate access to food.

Information on other foodmobiles and distributions  and on how to volunteer  can be found at www.eifoodbank.org.
BEIRUT (AP)  Russia on Monday threatened aircraft from the U.S.-led coalition in Syrian-controlled airspace and suspended a hotline intended to avoid collisions in retaliation for the U.S. military shooting down a Syrian warplane.

The U.S. said it had downed the Syrian jet a day earlier after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces conducting operations against the Islamic State group, adding that was something it would not tolerate.

The downing of the warplane  the first time in the six-year conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet  came amid another first: Iran fired several ballistic missiles Sunday night at IS positions in eastern Syria in what it said was a message to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The developments added to already-soaring regional tensions and reflect the intensifying rivalry among the major players in Syria's civil war that could spiral out of control just as the fight against the Islamic State group in its stronghold of Raqqa is gaining ground.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, called on the U.S. military to provide a full accounting as to why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22 bomber.

The U.S. military confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets shot down a Syrian jet that had dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces SDF. Those forces, which are aligned with the U.S. in the campaign against the Islamic State group, warned Syrian government troops to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that as of Monday, all coalition jets and drones flying west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as potential targets.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by IS before Syrian government forces captured most of them in recent months. The Russians, who have been providing air cover for Assad's forces since 2015, appear to want to avoid further U.S. targeting of Syrian warplanes or ground troops that have come under U.S. attack in eastern Syria recently.

It was the second time Russia suspended a hotline intended to minimize incidents with the U.S. in Syrian airspace. In April, Russia briefly suspended cooperation after the U.S. military fired 59 missiles at a Syrian air base following a chemical weapons attack that Washington blamed on the Assad government.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Washington is working to re-establish communications aimed at avoiding mishaps involving U.S. and Russian air operations in Syria.

Speaking in Washington, the top U.S. military officer said the two sides discussed the matter as recently as Monday morning but that further talks are needed.

Viktor Ozerov, chairman of the defense and security committee at the upper chamber of Russian parliament, described his Defense Ministry's statement as a warning.

"I'm sure that because of this, neither the U.S. nor anyone else will take any actions to threaten our aircraft," he told the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency. "That's why there's no threat of direct confrontation between Russia and American aircraft."

Ozerov insisted that Russia will be tracking the coalition's jets, not shooting them down, but he added that "a threat for those jets may appear only if they take action that pose a threat to Russian aircraft."

Iran said the missile strike by its powerful Revolutionary Guard hit Syria's eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night and was in retaliation for two attacks in Tehran earlier this month that killed 17 people and were claimed by the Islamic State group.

It appeared to be Iran's first missile attack abroad in over 15 years and its first in the Syrian conflict, in which it has provided crucial support to Assad. The muscle-flexing comes amid the worsening of a long-running feud between Shiite powerhouse Iran and Saudi Arabia, with supports Syrian rebels and has led recent efforts to isolate the Gulf nation of Qatar.

"The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message," Gen. Ramazan Sharif of the Revolutionary Guard told Iranian state TV in an interview.

It also raised questions about how U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, which had previously put Iran "on notice" for its ballistic missile tests, will respond. Israel also is concerned about Iran's missiles and has deployed a multilayered missile-defense system.

The missile attack came amid recent confrontations in Syria between U.S.-backed forces and Iranian-backed pro-government factions. The U.S. recently deployed a truck-mounted missile system in Syria as Iranian-backed forces cut off the advance of the U.S.-supported rebels along the Iraqi border.

Iranian officials threatened more strikes. Former Guard chief Gen. Mohsen Rezai wrote on Twitter: "The bigger slap is yet to come."

U.S.-backed opposition fighters said Assad's forces have been attacking them in the northern province of Raqqa and warned that if such attacks continue, the fighters will take action.

Clashes between Syrian troops and the SDF would escalate tensions and open a new front line in the many complex battlefields of the civil war, now in its seventh year. Clashes between the Kurdish-led SDF and Syrian forces have been rare and some rebel groups have even accused them of coordinating on the battlefield.

Both sides are battling the Islamic State group, with SDF fighters focusing on their march into the northern city of Raqqa, which the extremist group has declared to be its capital.

Syrian government forces have also been attacking IS in northern, central and southern parts of the country, seizing 25,000 square kilometers (9,600 square miles) and reaching the Iraqi border for the first time in years.

SDF spokesman Talal Sillo said the government wants to thwart the SDF offensive to capture Raqqa. He said government forces began attacking the SDF on Saturday, using warplanes, artillery and tanks in areas that SDF had liberated from IS.

Sillo also warned that if "the regime continues in its offensive against our positions in Raqqa province, this will force us to retaliate with force."

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks Syria's war, said government forces expanded their presence in Raqqa province by capturing from IS the town of Rasafa.

___

Vasilyeva reported from Moscow. Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed.

By BASSEM MROUE and NATALIYA VASILYEVA, Associated Press

BEIRUT (AP)  Russia on Monday threatened aircraft from the U.S.-led coalition in Syrian-controlled airspace and suspended a hotline intended to avoid collisions in retaliation for the U.S. military shooting down a Syrian warplane.

The U.S. said it had downed the Syrian jet a day earlier after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces conducting operations against the Islamic State group, adding that was something it would not tolerate.

The downing of the warplane  the first time in the six-year conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet  came amid another first: Iran fired several ballistic missiles Sunday night at IS positions in eastern Syria in what it said was a message to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The developments added to already-soaring regional tensions and reflect the intensifying rivalry among the major players in Syria's civil war that could spiral out of control just as the fight against the Islamic State group in its stronghold of Raqqa is gaining ground.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, called on the U.S. military to provide a full accounting as to why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22 bomber.

The U.S. military confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets shot down a Syrian jet that had dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces SDF. Those forces, which are aligned with the U.S. in the campaign against the Islamic State group, warned Syrian government troops to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that as of Monday, all coalition jets and drones flying west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as potential targets.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by IS before Syrian government forces captured most of them in recent months. The Russians, who have been providing air cover for Assad's forces since 2015, appear to want to avoid further U.S. targeting of Syrian warplanes or ground troops that have come under U.S. attack in eastern Syria recently.

It was the second time Russia suspended a hotline intended to minimize incidents with the U.S. in Syrian airspace. In April, Russia briefly suspended cooperation after the U.S. military fired 59 missiles at a Syrian air base following a chemical weapons attack that Washington blamed on the Assad government.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Washington is working to re-establish communications aimed at avoiding mishaps involving U.S. and Russian air operations in Syria.

Speaking in Washington, the top U.S. military officer said the two sides discussed the matter as recently as Monday morning but that further talks are needed.

Viktor Ozerov, chairman of the defense and security committee at the upper chamber of Russian parliament, described his Defense Ministry's statement as a warning.

"I'm sure that because of this, neither the U.S. nor anyone else will take any actions to threaten our aircraft," he told the state-owned RIA Novosti news agency. "That's why there's no threat of direct confrontation between Russia and American aircraft."

Ozerov insisted that Russia will be tracking the coalition's jets, not shooting them down, but he added that "a threat for those jets may appear only if they take action that pose a threat to Russian aircraft."

Iran said the missile strike by its powerful Revolutionary Guard hit Syria's eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night and was in retaliation for two attacks in Tehran earlier this month that killed 17 people and were claimed by the Islamic State group.

It appeared to be Iran's first missile attack abroad in over 15 years and its first in the Syrian conflict, in which it has provided crucial support to Assad. The muscle-flexing comes amid the worsening of a long-running feud between Shiite powerhouse Iran and Saudi Arabia, with supports Syrian rebels and has led recent efforts to isolate the Gulf nation of Qatar.

"The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message," Gen. Ramazan Sharif of the Revolutionary Guard told Iranian state TV in an interview.

It also raised questions about how U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, which had previously put Iran "on notice" for its ballistic missile tests, will respond. Israel also is concerned about Iran's missiles and has deployed a multilayered missile-defense system.

The missile attack came amid recent confrontations in Syria between U.S.-backed forces and Iranian-backed pro-government factions. The U.S. recently deployed a truck-mounted missile system in Syria as Iranian-backed forces cut off the advance of the U.S.-supported rebels along the Iraqi border.

Iranian officials threatened more strikes. Former Guard chief Gen. Mohsen Rezai wrote on Twitter: "The bigger slap is yet to come."

U.S.-backed opposition fighters said Assad's forces have been attacking them in the northern province of Raqqa and warned that if such attacks continue, the fighters will take action.

Clashes between Syrian troops and the SDF would escalate tensions and open a new front line in the many complex battlefields of the civil war, now in its seventh year. Clashes between the Kurdish-led SDF and Syrian forces have been rare and some rebel groups have even accused them of coordinating on the battlefield.

Both sides are battling the Islamic State group, with SDF fighters focusing on their march into the northern city of Raqqa, which the extremist group has declared to be its capital.

Syrian government forces have also been attacking IS in northern, central and southern parts of the country, seizing 25,000 square kilometers (9,600 square miles) and reaching the Iraqi border for the first time in years.

SDF spokesman Talal Sillo said the government wants to thwart the SDF offensive to capture Raqqa. He said government forces began attacking the SDF on Saturday, using warplanes, artillery and tanks in areas that SDF had liberated from IS.

Sillo also warned that if "the regime continues in its offensive against our positions in Raqqa province, this will force us to retaliate with force."

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks Syria's war, said government forces expanded their presence in Raqqa province by capturing from IS the town of Rasafa.

___

Vasilyeva reported from Moscow. Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran and Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed.
Valmet to Supply Tissue Production Line to Sofidel in Spain The new Advantage NTT 200 tissue machine will have a design speed of 1,800 m/min in textured mode and 2,000 m/min in plain mode. June 19, 2017 - Valmet will supply a complete tissue production line to Sofidel's Ibertissue mill in Bunuel, Navarra, in Spain. The delivery includes an Advantage NTT 200 tissue production line, stock preparation equipment and automation system. Start-up of the new line is scheduled for third quarter 2018. The value of the order was not disclosed. The up-coming new line in Spain will be Sofidel's fourth Valmet Advantage NTT tissue line in Sofidel's machine fleet. Previously the company has bought one NTT machine to their Delitissue mill in Poland and two NTT machines to their new site, Circleville in Ohio, USA. All in all, this is the 15th tissue machine supplied by Valmet to Sofidel. "We are of course excited that Sofidel once again decided to go for the Advantage NTT technology to support their path toward future tissue making. It is a perfect match for Sofidel's ambition to produce high quality tissue products with low energy consumption supporting their goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said Jan Erikson, Vice President, Sales, Tissue Mills business unit, Valmet. According to Valmet, the new tissue machine will have a design speed of 1,800 m/min in textured mode and 2,000 m/min in plain mode. The production line is optimized to save energy and fiber as well as add possibilities for product differentiation and increased capacity of premium quality products. Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of services and technologies for the pulp, paper and energy industries. To learn more, please visit: www.valmet.com SOURCE: Valmet
While the President of the United States is still trying to get a travel ban aimed at Muslim-populated countries passed in courts, Germany is making yet another progressive move forward. Women's rights activist and lawyer Seyran Ates opened the country's first "liberal" mosque, where all Islam-practicing peoplemen and women, straight or gay, Sunni or Shittescan pray together.

Dozens of people gathered on opening day for Friday prayers, led by American female imam Ani Zonneveld and Ates herself. This day was eight years in the making. "I couldn't be more euphoric, it's a dream come true," she said to the Associated Press.

The mosque is named Ibn-Rushd-Goethe-Mosque, after medieval philosopher Ibn Rushd and German writer Johann Wolfgang Goethe, combining the names of two influential historic figures in European culture to honor the mosque's roots. Ates aimed the mosque to be a place of prayer where progressive Islam believers can set aside any religious or cultural differences to focus on their shared value of prayer.

"This project was long overdue," Ates said. "There's so much Islamist terror and so much evilness happening in the name of my religion ... it's important that we, the modern and liberal Muslims, also show our faces in public."

Photo: Getty Images


Dolce & Gabbanna, luxury fashion house whose mantra might as well be "Don't tread on me!", employed Miley Cyrus's brother Braison Cyrus to walk their SS18 runway over the weekend.

Proud sis Miley dedicated an Instagram post to Braison's debut, but decided to end her caption by clarifying the perpetually controversial brand is not at all her idea of a good time.

"PS D&G, I STRONGLY disagree with your politics." The pop star wrote. "But I do support your company's effort to celebrate young artists & give them the platform to shine their light for all to see!"

Of course Stefano Gabbana immediately clapped back in a poor English translation of his Italian post, informing Miley that .

"We are Italian and we don't care about politics and mostly neither about the American one! We make dresses and if you think about doing politics with a post it's simply ignorant," the Italian designer replied. "We don't need your posts or comments so next time please ignore us!"

Here is the more accurate, clearer English translation:

"We are Italian and uninterested in politics, even less so in American politics !!! We make dresses and if you think you can do political [work] in a post you are simply an ignoramus. We don't need your posts or comments. Next time ignore us please!!"

The irony of labelling Miley ignorant is pretty laughable, especially considering Gabbana completed his post with the #boycottdolcegabbana  harking back to the Internet's response to his "synthetic children" comments regarding children conceived by artificial insemination. The hashtag was also resurrected when D&G announced they were proud to dress Melania Trump...only to then be screen-printed onto a t-shirt by the brand for online purchase.

What is there to be learned by this? Not a whole lot, other than the reminder that attempting to call-out a troll will likely always prove frustrating and pointless. Better to leave them happily unprovoked below their bridges to live their worst lives. Just look at Piers Morgan.

Image via Getty


The European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs released a draft proposal for a new Regulation on Privacy and Electronic Communications. The draft recommends a regulation that will enforce end-to-end encryption on all communications to protect European Union citizens' fundamental privacy rights. The committee also noted that decryption shall be prohibited. This is contrary to what the UK is considering to enforce.

The Conclusion of the EU Report

The rapporteur supports the objective of this proposal of establishing a modern comprehensive and technologically neutral framework for electronic communications in the Union, which ensures a high level of protection of individuals with regard to their fundamental rights of private life and data protection. Yet she considers that some aspects must be strengthened in order to guarantee a high level of protection as afforded by Regulation (EU) 2016/679, the Charter of Fundamental Rights and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The achievement of a Digital Single Market builds on a reliable legal framework for electronic communications that will increase trust of individuals on digital economy and will also allow businesses to pursue their activities in full respect of fundamental rights.

In the preparation of this report, your rapporteur has conducted extensive and thorough discussions with the following stakeholders representing various interests.

The rapporteur expects her proposals to form a good basis for swift agreement in the European Parliament and negotiations with the Council in order to ensure that the legal framework is in place by 25 May 2018.

Specific Amendments Mentioning Encryption

Two specific EU Parliament amendments touch on encryption as follows:

Amendment #36: "Service providers who offer electronic communications services should process electronic communications data in such a way as to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure or alteration, ensure that such unauthorized access, disclosure or alteration is capable of being ascertained, and also ensure that such electronic communications data are protected by using specific types of software and encryption technologies."

Amendment #116: "The providers of electronic communications services shall ensure that there is sufficient protection in place against unauthorised access or alterations to the electronic communications data, and that the confidentiality and safety of the transmission are also guaranteed by the nature of the means of transmission used or by state-of-the-art end-to-end encryption of the electronic communications data.

Furthermore, when encryption of electronic communications data is used, decryption, reverse engineering or monitoring of such communications shall be prohibited. Member States shall not impose any obligations on electronic communications service providers that would result in the weakening of the security and encryption of their networks and services."

The proposals, from the members on the European Parliament's Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee, have been tabled as amendments to draft EU privacy legislation.

The phrase that many online reports have used such as "the committee also recommended a ban on backdoors," is nowhere to be found in the document but is inferred by claiming there shall be no decryption allowed as highlighted above.

The UK's Position Materially Differs

Technology companies defend encryption on the grounds that it helps guarantee privacy and security, and warn that "backdoors" applied by governments could be exploited by criminals and rogue states to spy on citizens.

Yet UK MPs have said the technology gives terrorists a safe place to plot attacks without the threat of police scuppering their plans.





While the EU's report supports end-to-end encryption, the UK is taking a different stance at the moment and more so because of the recent terrorist attacks including the attack outside the Ariana Grande concert. It was reported in May that one of the attacks was set-off by a communication delivered on Whatsapp as noted in the video above.

On June 6, Patently Apple posted a report titled "Apple's CEO admits to Assisting the UK Government with Recent Terrorist Investigations." Just how Apple was able to assist the government is confidential.

This particular debate over encryption/decryption is bound to continue for some time, at least in both the U.K. and U.S. On May 03 Patently Apple posted a report titled "FBI Director backs new Senator Feinstein Push for Decryption Bill."

The U.S. Still debating Device Back Doors and Compliance with Court Orders

In that report we noted Comey stating that 'We've had very good open and productive conversations with the private sector over the last 18 months about this issue, because everybody realizes we care about the same things. We all love privacy, we all care about public safety and none of us want backdoors  we don't want access to devices built in some way. What we want to work with the manufacturers on is to figure out how can we accommodate both interests in a sensible way,' said Comey in response to a question from senator Hatch about the security risks of backdoors being built in to enable access to encrypted data.

'How can we optimize the privacy, security features of their devices and allow court orders to be complied with. We're having some good conversations  I don't know where they're going to end up, frankly. I could imagine a world that ends up with legislation saying that if you're going to make devices in the US you figure out how to comply with court orders. Or maybe we don't go there. But we are having productive conversations right now I think."

To review the EU Parliament's full and final draft on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs click here.

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Talking to Muslims certainly doesnt hurt. But we should also talk to non-Muslims who live in Muslim majority regions. And from Nigeria, to Yemen, to Syria, to Indonesia, Ive worked with many over the years who have their own opinion about being the minority in a Muslim majority region. Truth be told, their accounts typically sound more like this, than this.

I think its fair to say Pope Francis hasnt glossed over the evils of Islamic extremism. But like many today, it seems he doesnt go beyond that, and wishes to focus on the positives once the worst elements of terror are condemned. As if there is nothing in between.

Thats a little like saying but for the Gulags, the rest of the USSR was pretty good. Or to put it another way: But for the lynchings, the rest of the pre-Civil Rights South wasnt half bad. See how that rings a bit hollow?

Ive noticed for those Christians I know who grew up within Muslim majorities, that sort of pontificating about the Islamic world sounds about the same. Not that they agree with far right wing takes on Islam. As the Syrian businessman at my wifes church points out, many of their friends from back home are Muslim. He just believes it takes more than an either/or understanding of the region.

Im reminded of tales told by black servicemen from WWII. I seldom hear them spout hatred or bitterness against their fellow servicemen. In fact, even while they speak of the segregation and discrimination, theyll often reference friends who were white, or fellow servicemen who did them well. They even speak of their patriotism and love they had for their country. But theyre also prepared to be honest about the discrimination and racism of that time period.

Perhaps thats a better approach to the Islam question. Admit that there are problems beyond terrorism in the Islamic world. That also could help make sense of Muslims saying things that dont seem terrorist, but appear to be a bit disconcerting nonetheless.
Patna: Thousands of candidates for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) preliminary test appeared in Patna on Sunday with aspirants' post-exam reaction varying from 'too easy' to 'rather complicated' depending on the subject of the test.

Students said they did not expect so many questions though most questions were from the current affairs (45), followed by Polity with 20 questions, History (13), Environment (10), Geography and Science (5 each), and economics (2).

In the second sitting students were subjected to Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) comprising of reasoning, math, and Hindi and English Comprehension. The test consisted of 80 questions for a total mark of 200. One must score at least 66 marks in this test in order to qualify for the main.

Officials said the cut-off line in general category is expected to be between 110 and 114 while the cut-off for OBC category could be between 106 and 110. For SC/ST, it is expected to be between 90 and 92.
News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism.
Iran, China Hold Naval Drills In Persian Gulf

06/19/17

Source: RFE/RL

Iran and China have held naval drills near the strategic Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf. The military drills on June 18 came amid heightened tensions between the Iranian and U.S. military in the Persian Gulf.



Chinese Navy fleet at the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas

(photos by ISNA)

The official IRNA news agency said the exercises included an Iranian warship as well as two Chinese warships, a logistics ship, and a Chinese helicopter that arrived in Iran's port of Bandar Abbas last week.



IRNA reported that some 700 Iranian navy personnel participated in the drills, the first joint naval exercises between the two countries since 2014.



IRNA said the scheduled drills came before the departure of the Chinese fleet for Oman's capital, Muscat.



The U.S. Navy held a joint drill with Qatar in the Persian Gulf on June 17.



U.S. and Iranian warships have had a number of tense encounters in the Persian Gulf in recent years.





Straits of Hormuz



Nearly one-third of all oil traded by sea passes through the Strait of Hormuz.



Based on reporting by AP and Reuters
Heritage Bank Limited, a wholly indigenous bank and 33rd licensed bank into the Ghanaian Banking Industry, has signalled its preparedness to revolutionize the Banking experience in Ghana with the launch of an ultra-modern flagship Branch on Lagos Avenue, East Legon.



The heavily attended event which took place on Wednesday, 14th June at the forecourt of the pristine East Legon Branch was witnessed by a host of dignitaries from various segments of public life including politicians, businessmen, influencers in the financial services industry, as well as a cross-section of the general public.



Addressing the gathering, Managing Director of Heritage Bank Limited, Mr. Patrick Edwin Fiscian, acknowledged the public excitement regarding the revolutionary architectural design of the East Legon Branch.



He commented that the outstanding lay-out and ambience of the building is indicative of the refreshing customer experience that Heritage Bank is geared to deliver.



He further stated in our bid to transform the Banking experience in Ghana, we have placed emphasis on maximizing convenience for our customers by listening to them in order to have a deep understanding of what they need and want- this helps us craft and fashion our banking services for each individual need. This approach will certainly usher in a new era of convenience in banking, providing the reliable and customized banking experience that customers seek.



Board Chairman for Heritage Bank, Prof. Kwesi Botchwey also reiterated the assertion that Heritage Bank has come to revolutionise the Banking Experience in Ghana by providing bespoke services that meet the peculiar needs of diverse customer segments.



In the guest speaker keynote address, Mr. Raymond Amanfu, the Head of Banking Supervision at the Bank of Ghana, lauded the Board and Management of Heritage Bank Limited for their vision and courage in taking the bold step to start up a globally competitive banking institution right here in Ghana.



He urged them to comply stringently with regulatory standards and explore home-grown innovations in order to build customized solutions that would meet the peculiar needs of Ghanaian customers.



A representative from the Finance Ministry urged Ghanaians to take a cue from the Banks slogan, Its Possible and aim high in all their endeavours; stating that all globally relevant companies achieved success due largely to local support.



Other august persons who graced the launch were Hon. Frema Osei-Opare, Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Hon. Emmanuel Kyerematen Agyarko; MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Hon. Ambrose Dery; Minister for Interior.



Also present at the launch were Prof. Christopher Ameyaw Akumfi, Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructural Fund Board, Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, MP for Mpraeso and Hon. Collins Owusu-Amankwa, MP for Manhyia North.



Heritage Bank Limited has been granted a universal banking license by the Bank of Ghana and that its commitment to creating deep relationships with clients and customers is borne from their mission to offer world class banking services and to create convenience for their customers, making it possible for them to fulfil their goals and aspirations.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned Arit Nsemoh, a magistrate, for sacking journalists from covering court proceedings in relation to the murder of former Abuakwa North MP JB Danquah.



GJA president Affail Monney, in a press release on Monday June 19, demanded an apology from the Judicial Service and a full assurance that reporters will no more experience any unnecessary hindrance and indignity in the coverage of the case.



The magistrate, after the entry of the two suspects, ordered police officers stationed within the courtroom to prevent all journalists from entering. The police were also asked to usher out journalists already seated in the court.



Mr Monney explained that the magistrate said she ordered only a cameraman who was allegedly taking shots without permission at the court entrance to leave the premises and that she never issued a blanket quit order to all the reporters.



However, the GJA said her account contradicted that of journalists who were at the court, who quoted the magistrate as saying she did not want any journalist in her court.



The GJA considers this action indiscreet, reprehensible and an affront to media freedom, the statement said.



The JB Danquah murder trial is of a huge national and international interest, given the tragic circumstances under which the young MP was killed, hence to deny journalists access to open court is to deprive the public in general and the bereaved family in particular the sovereign right to be informed about the proceedings to dispense justice in the case.



The GJA commended the judicial press corps for their tolerance and encouraged them to follow the case and feed the public with the right information.

Source: GNA









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The widow of Major Maxwell Adam Mahama has penned a moving message on behalf of her two children in remembrance of their departed loving father.



Barbara Mahama spoke profoundly about how different this year's Father's Day will be for Jerry and Jaden without their father who was a "rock" for them and her.



"You would have prayed for them in their sleep, and played with them later in the day, you would have teased Jerry that he loves food, and you would have teased Jaden for playing deaf when watching cartoons. "You would have said the boys are your therapy, and you would have jumped around with them, they would have asked for more, and you would have laughed and said that these kids dont know that I am growing old, she fondly reminisced.



Without Captain of the 5th Battalion Infantry who was mistakenly lynched on suspicion of being an armed robber while on official duty by residents of Denkyira Obuasi, Barbara Mahama said "I will take consolation in Psalm 68:5 which says 'Father to the fatherless, defender of widows-this is God, whose dwelling is holy.'"



She assured the posthumous Major that despite the long arduous journey he has left for her and the children, "we will survive because you would want us to survive." "You never liked it when people put their lives on hold and you definitely WILL not like us to put our lives on hold now, not for anything, not to please GHANAIANS, not to please hypocrites.



"You would love to see us dancing without you, singing, laughing, bonding, living, and loving you," she said.



Read her letter below:



Dear Maxwell, I woke up early thinking about today, thinking about how different it will be, thinking about the kids, thinking about everything, and crying. Today (yesterday was) is fathers day, and I know the importance of fathers in the lives of children, and I will miss the rock you were to the kids and me.



You would have prayed for them in their sleep, and played with them later in the day, you would have teased Jerry that he loves food, and you would have teased Jaden for playing deaf when watching cartoons.



You would have said the boys are your therapy, and you would have jumped around with them, they would have asked for more, and you would have laughed and said that these kids dont know that I am growing old. Today, I will take consolation in Psalm 68:5 which says Father to the fatherless, defender of widows-this is God, whose dwelling is holy."



This journey will be long and full of uncertainties but we will survive because you would want us to survive. You never liked it when people put their lives on hold and you definitely WILL not like us to put our lives on hold now, not for anything, not to please GHANAIANS, not to please hypocrites.



You would love to see us dancing without you, singing, laughing, bonding, living, and loving you. You would love to see me dressed up to kill-I will gather courage and do that soon my love, you would love to see a broad smile on my face and some lipstick on my lips.



I dont know how it will be, but I will try to be a father and a mother, with God as the overall father for the kids. This task is huge but God does not give us more than we can handle. I wont be able to send the kids out today because I may end up crying the whole time. Im sure by now, you are laughing at me and saying the usual B, you have too many tears in your tear ducts so you just want to empty your eyes.



The devil wanted to break me but I am crushed down and not destroyed. God gave me new and stronger wings to fly at a higher altitude.



Thank you for the many great memories, even if I say a memory a day, 10 years will not dry up the special moments.



Great Father, we love you, God bless your beautiful soul my king.









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 Crop Research Institute (CRI) of the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is test-planting Ghana's first locally bred rice varieties at Dzamlome in the Kajebi District of the Volta Region.



Three market-quality upland varieties; the B3 P6, B1 P5, and the B4 P1 are the products of years of cross breeding between lowland Jasmine 85 and upland Nerica1 stocks, under the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa initiative.



The Project is being supported by the Korea-Africa Food and Agriculture Corporation Initiative whose programme; Dissemination of Market Quality Rice Varieties to Reduce Rice Importation in Ghana, is expected to end in July 2019.



The Centre for Conflict and Development, based in the USA, is also collaborating with the project seeking to resettle homeless persons on farms.



Dr Stella Ama Annin, the Chief Research Director of CRI, speaking at the launch of the testing and dissemination programme of the new varieties, said the projects was to improve food security and outcomes of farmers through the use of adapted high yielding market quality rice varieties.



She said the cereals had the quality and matched the taste of imported brands and were expected to drive efforts at reducing rice imports.



Dr Annin said the varieties were expected to produce four tonnes per hector on 40 farmers fields over two years, from the use of new varieties and obtained agronomic practices, and would result in at least a 10 per cent farmer revenue increment.



She said thousands of farmers would benefit from the project which would provide them with improved technologies for producing the rice and also link them to processing mills.



Dr Annin said the Kadjebi District was chosen for its proximity to the Wurawura Rice Mill and would set up demonstration fields in the villages and on the premises of the mill to enable testing.



She said mills with the capacity of Wurawura Rice Mill would further the commercialisation of the varieties by purchasing the licence for the varieties and distributing them to farmers.



Dr Annin urged farmers, the Kadjebi District Assembly, and other stakeholders to justify the selection of the District as the pioneer of the project by supporting the initiative.



Dr Kofi Dartey, a Senior Research Scientist at CRI, who bred the stocks, said the varieties were a hybrid of high yielding Jasmine 85 as the parent, and high amylose (non-starchy) Nerica stocks to produce long and slender grains, which were soft when boiled.



He said the breeding process involved the crossing of over 100 varieties at the research facility in Kumasi and considered factors such as growth rate, pest, and disease infection.



Dr Dartey called for the patronage of the new varieties and said the lesser the milling and polishing, the more protein and roughage it contained.



Mr Maxwell Kofi Asiedu, the District Chief Executive, promised to provide a mill for the community if farmers would devote their time to producing the rice.



A multipurpose power tiller was provided for the project.

Source: GNA









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The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has stated that donor support to the budgets of the Ministries of Education, Health and Gender, Children and Social Protection, in 2016, is the equal to the revenue allegedly diverted by some 19 customs officials who were arrested recently.



It will be recalled that three (3) weeks ago, the countrys law enforcement agencies cracked allegedly a syndicate of 19 persons at the Tema Harbour, comprising customs officials and representatives of three clearing and freight forwarding agencies, who were allegedly responsible for the loss of some GH1.2 billion in revenue to the state.



Referring to figures from the Ministry of Finance, President Akufo-Addo stated that the budget for the Ministry of Health in 2016 amounted to some GH2.9 billion. Out of this amount, GH743 million, representing 26% of the Ministrys budget, was financed by overseas donors.



Again, the President noted that the Ministry of Educations budget for 2016, amounting to GH5.9 billion, saw a contribution of GH323 million by overseas donors; whereas the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, whose budget for 2016 GH463 million received donor support of GH70 million.



So in three Ministries of our social sector  health, education and gender  out of a total budget of GH9.2 billion, GH1.2 billion is overseas aid or donor support. And yet, one group of alleged racketeers at Tema can deny us revenue of GH1.2 billion, he lamented.



The President noted that with a handful of customs officials and representatives of clearing agencies allegedly responsible for this level of loss, one can, therefore, imagine the leakages and the seepages that exists in the countrys revenue collection systemt.



The fight against corruption is about ourselves, it is not so a big a theoretical thing in the air. They (corrupt officials) are degrading our capacity to control our own development, and to be able to do so with our heads high and not with our hands up, begging people to come and help us. We should not be in that position, he bemoaned.



The President continued, We appreciate the contributions and the support that our friends across the world make to our country and to its development. We are not looking gift horses in the mouth, but we should be capable of financing our own development, so that whatever anybody else wants to come and give is like a bonus, the icing on the cake.



These statistics, the President indicated, tells you how important the fight against corruption is. If it is, indeed, true that the leakages (from the ports) can be anything between GH7 billion to GH10 billion, then you can appreciate the magnitude of where we are. Those pocketing these sums of money, and denying these monies to our exchequer, are, essentially, denying our capacity to develop.



He assured Ghanaians that to the extent that God gives me health and strength, I am going to do my best to make sure that the fight against corruption is won.



Describing Ghana as a country of considerable resources, with 27 million hardworking people, President Akufo-Addo noted that if we handle the resources of our country honestly and intelligently, there is no limit to where we can go.



The reason why the fight against corruption is such an important matter for his government and the people of Ghana, he explained, is because of the project that we (government) have put before our people.



We want to put Ghana in the situation Beyond Aid. We want to be able to mobilize Ghana's own resources to handle the problems of its development. We are not a poor country in Ghana. We are a country of considerable resources, with 27 million people, hardworking people in the land which is blessed with a lot that nature has given us, he added.



President Akufo-Addo was addressing the Ghanaian community resident in the United Kingdom, at an event held at the Central Hall, Westminster, London, on Friday, June 16, 2017, when he made these known.









Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Ghana's former High Commissioner to India, Sam Pee Yalley says Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia cannot turn the Flagstaff House into a mosque.



According to him, since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) were accusing late President John Evans Atta Mills of turning the Presidency into a church, Dr Bawumia being a Muslim, cannot turn it into a mosque.



You remember when Professor Mills was praying in the castle; there was all these hullabaloo that he was turning the castle into a church. Now; I am not against Muslim religion; what is Bawumia doing?. Every evening, people have to go and break their fast; if I was Bawumia, I will not do a thing like that; I would rather go to the poor areas of Fadama, Zongo to go and break my fast with the people there. We should stop all these facade. If you say somebody was turning the castle into a church, you cannot also turn the flagstaff house into a mosque. This religious bigotry should stop, he said during a panel discussion on Radio Golds Alhaji and Alhaji, Saturday.



Last Wednesday some Muslim dignitaries joined the Vice President Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia to break the ongoing Ramadan fast at the Flagstaff House.



Also Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Thursday morning invited Muslims to dine with him at the forecourt of the Flagstaff House.



The Iftar at the forecourt of the seat of government was attended by other Muslim dignitaries including Sheikhs and Imams.



It was led by National Chief Imam Sheikh Nuhu Shaributu.







Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/Peacefmonline.com









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Deputy Minister for Regional Reorganization and Development, Martin Adjei Mensah-Korsah is urging the Acting General Secretary for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu and other party executives to crack the whip on the irate youth of NPP in Savelugu.



According to him, though it is becoming one too many, the reported cases of some NPP activists openly kicking against nominees for the positions of DCEs and MCEs, the attitude of the youth of Savelugu leaves much to be desired.



The attitude of the youth of Savelugu cannot be justified in anyway. If they didnt like the person, the best point they should have stopped her was during confirmation. The Assembly members are from the town and if I can say to the very core, the Assembly members consist of both NPP and NDC members and they voted for the woman to get her confirmation, he asserted.



After all these steps, they are insisting they dont agree. If the woman does not deserve it, before her confirmation, they had every right to campaign against her and to lobby against her, he stressed.



Mr. Adjei Mensah-Korsah maintained that the woman has passed the stage of lobbying against her as any further agitation could be termed as sheer hatred.



If the youth are shown the power of the law, they will be sober and it wouldnt end up that way. The method they have chosen, they will not get solution to it; at best, they will be in trouble and if care is not taken, the appointing authority may not tolerate it anymore. They are giving us a bad name; giving us a bad press. It is not good and it is needless. Ghanaians are watching us and we cannot continue like this, he fumed.



He again reminded the irate NPP youth of Savelugu that it is not only them who worked as others also worked hard for the party in a particular way.



What they are doing is an embarrassment to the party and it is worrisome to the party. I expect John Boadu and Co to crack the whip; those with membership cards who misbehave in this manner should not be allowed to go on. Mr. Freddie Blay must crack the whip because nobody can be bigger than the party, he charged.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









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The body of a 17-year-old girl has been discovered by police in the US state of Virginia, and a 22-year-old man has been charged with her murder, hours after her and her friends were reportedly assaulted while leaving a mosque.

Remains thought to be those of Nabra, whose surname has not yet been released, were found in a pond in the town of Sterling.

Nabra had been with friends as they left the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) mosque in the early hours of Sunday morning, following Ramadan prayers. The group was walking to 24-hour restaurant to eat before their fast began at sunrise, when police say a driver stopped and accosted them.

While her friends ran back to ADAMS, Nabra was separated from the group. When she could not be located, ADAMS members notified the police, and a full search began at around 4am.

The remains were discovered at 3pm, several kilometres away from ADAMS. Police encountered a suspicious motorist in the area and placed him under arrest, later identifying him as Darwin Martinez Torres. He was charged with her assault and murder.

UPDATE: Suspect in Herndon missing teen investigation taken to jail. Darwin Martinez Torres, 22, of Sterling, has been charged with murder. pic.twitter.com/JGBxXmdqUf  Fairfax Co. Police (@fairfaxpolice) June 18, 2017

The exact cause of death is not yet clear, and while the medical examiner is yet to conduct a full autopsy, authorities are confident the remains are those of Nabra.

Police confirmed they are investigating the possibility that her death was the result of a hate crime.

In a statement, ADAMS chairman Rizwan Jaka said we are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event. It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth.

RIP.

Source: The Washington Post.

Photo: @beautiful_lova1 / Twitter.
The 22-year-old American student imprisoned by the North Korean government for allegedly stealing a flag, who was released to the United States last week in a coma, has died.

Otto Warmbier returned to the US last Tuesday early into his 15-year sentence by the North Korean government, who said he had been in a coma for a year after developing botulism shortly after his trial. The family only discovered his condition in the days prior to his release

His family issued a statement confirming his death. It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2:20pm.

The statement makes no mention of a coma explicitly, but does say that when he returned home he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands.

He looked very uncomfortable  almost anguished. Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace. He was home and we believe he could sense that.

Statement issued by the family of #ottowarmbier on his passing pic.twitter.com/0loUSdBmrM  Bret Baier (@BretBaier) June 19, 2017

Doctors who treated Warmbier on his return say that he had suffered extensive loss of brain tissue, and was in a state of unresponsive wakefulness. The familys statement thanks doctors and condemns the North Korean government.

We would like to thank the wonderful professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who did everything they could for Otto. Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today.

Source: Washington Post.

Photo: AP.
Nature. Its a beautiful thing.

Even the ocean, home of dickhead whales, dickhead sea lions, dickhead jellyfish, and actual dicks, is on occasion responsible for some genuinely beautiful shit.

Like this outstanding blacklight wonderland in at Tulka beach in Port Lincoln, South Australia. Caused by a bioluminescent algae, its pretty trippy stuff, man.

An incredible sight on a beach near Port Lincoln  well explain in 7 News at 6pm. pic.twitter.com/YvcG1oq5Hc  7 News Adelaide (@7NewsAdelaide) June 19, 2017

The glimmery stuff was first spotted by local Kye Higgins on his dog Miss Millie. After seeing her splashing in the shallows on the beach, Higgins said:

It looked like there was glow-stick liquid on her legs.

Loves to get loose, that Miss Millie.

The bloom of Noctiluca scintillans is a fleshy pink colour unless its disturbed, when it glows bright blue. Apparently a luminescence of this intensity is pretty rare, so ravers of Adelaide, nows your chance to participate in Mother Earths very own doof.

Eyre Peninsula locals have been treated to a stunning display with bioluminescent algae lighting up the waters near Port Lincoln. #9News pic.twitter.com/vOQklHHpVQ  Nine News Adelaide (@9NewsAdel) June 19, 2017

Source: 7News / ABC.

Image: 7News.
According to reports out of London, several pedestrians have been injured after being struck by a van near Finsbury Park Mosque.

Social media reports suggest that the van veered off the road into pedestrians, which was later confirmed by police as a major incident. Officers are on the scene with other emergency services, a spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said.

There are a number of casualties being worked on at the scene. There has been one person arrested. Enquiries continue.

Social media posts from the area suggest that the victims are largely Muslim, and may have been leaving Finsbury Park Mosque. This has not been confirmed by police or emergency services at this time.

Islamaphobic attack in finsbury park right now. A van randomly swerved off the main road and ran over several muslim men. pic.twitter.com/FM2RP0Fd4d  ?? (@__ABDULQAADIR) June 19, 2017

It is unclear at this point whether the collision was deliberate or not. We will keep you posted as more info emerges.

Source: The Independent.

Photo: Twitter.
We Strayans love getting outta our big old sunburnt country girt by sea.

Lapping up the European summer, escaping to Bali to escape the Melbourne winter and going on a hot dog tour of America are some of your classic trips.

But according to Flight Centres annual Turner Report, which offers an in-depth look into the travel patterns of Australians, were branching out from these surefire destinations are trying places a little different and unusual.





New Caledonia as the No. 1 emerging destination among the companys Australian customers, with 42 per cent growth in bookings last year. Its not hard to see why when you consider the fact its just a short 2 hour flight from Brissy, and it looks like this:

A post shared by Ludo en Caledo (@ludoladakh) on Jun 18, 2017 at 2:26am PDT

A post shared by Marie De Sousa (@marie2sousa) on Jun 18, 2017 at 10:37pm PDT

A post shared by Lucas ? (@lcsngr) on Jun 18, 2017 at 10:37pm PDT

Last year Expedia named New Caledonia one of the best value-for-money alternatives to Bali. Stunning beaches, heaps of French cuisine and the worlds largest enclosed lagoon, the Le Parc Naturel de la Mer de Corail, are just some of the main draw cards of the island paradise.

Its followed closely by Japan (up 18%) and Vanuatu (up 17%), both of which are considered serious growth destinations.

The fastest-growing destinations domestically are Uluru, the Sunshine Coast and Cairns.

The report also detailed the fact that Australian travel had more than doubled in the past decade  most likely due to air travel becoming cheaper and holiday destinations looks so damn irresistible on Instagram.

Source: News.com.au.

Photo: @unepetiteparenthese / Instagram.
One person has died, and at least eight have been injured, after a van slammed into a crowd of people in Londons Finsbury Park.

A man was pronounced dead at the scene, with the remaining victims taken to hospital for treatment.

Muslim worshippers leaving a prayer service held in the area were among those hit by the van in the early hours of the morning.

The Muslim Council of Britain has issued a statement on the tragedy, saying over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia, and this is the most violent manifestation to date.



A 48-year-old man was detained by onlookers and was eventually taken into custody by police.

Investigations into the horrific incident are now being handled by the polices counter-terrorism unit. Prime Minister Theresa May confirmed it was being treated as a possible act of terrorism.

Well update this story as it develops.

Source: BBC.

Photo: Anadolu Agency / Getty.
Two British ministers have admitted that the aluminium cladding that was used on the Grenfell tower  which has been blamed for the blaze which killed at least 58 people  may have been illegal in the United Kingdom.

Treasury chief Philip Hammond and Trade Minister Greg Hands said the cladding used on the exterior of the building appeared to be banned by British regulations.

Its worth noting that the investigation is still undergoing, but the popular discussion has focused heavily on the cladding, based on how quickly the building went up in flames.

My understanding is that the cladding that was reported wasnt in accordance with UK building regulations, Mr Hands told Sky News. We need to find out precisely what cladding was used and how it was attached.

He said that the government is conducting a full investigation into how this happened  which takes on a certain urgency considering there are approximately 2,500 similar council towers around the United Kingdom.

Labour MP David Lammy has called upon the government to seize all documents related to the buildings renovation in case they contain evidence of criminal wrongdoing. The Prime Minister needs to act immediately to ensure that all evidence is protected so that everyone culpable for what happened at Grenfell Tower is held to account and feels the full force of the law, he said.

Lammy delivered an emotional interview to cameras about a woman he had known who died in the towers blaze.

UK: after the Grenfell fire  a lucid and devastating interview with @DavidLammy via @AdamWagner1 pic.twitter.com/V5NMSyDl4E  neuro.social.self (@neurosocialself) June 18, 2017

When the truth comes out about this tragedy, we may find that there is blood on the hands of a number of organisations, he continued.

Police have confirmed at least 58 people died in the blaze, with more expected to be confirmed over the coming days. It is believed that a number of the dead may never be identified.

Source: ABC News.

Photo: Getty Images.
The number of people dead or missing presumed dead as a result of the fire that tore through the 24-storey Grenfell Tower apartment block has increased to 79, according to UK police.

Of those 79 victims, only five so far have been officially identified, with Commander Stuart Cundy telling reporters that the awful reality is that they may not be able to identify everyone:

Due to the intensity of the fire and the devastation within Grenfell Tower, we may not be able to identify everybody that died. We have been from the top to bottom of Grenfell Tower, the search operation will be painstaking.

Cundy also said that the Metropolitan Police were supporting the families and the loved ones of each of those 79.

There have been suggestions that both the fire and the death toll were exacerbated by concerns about fire safety that were unaddressed by landlords and that the cladding that may have helped the fire spread so quickly is actually illegal.

A police inquiry is being launched to determine if any criminal offences were committed that contributed to the fire.

Source: BBC, Business Insider.

Photo: Getty Images / Stringer.
Bachelorette and Bachelor villains (respectively) Sam Johnston and Keira Maguire have told NW Magazine that they were due to appear on the upcoming season of Bachelor In Paradise before it was axed due to allegations of sexual assault on the set.

Production on Bachelor in Paradise  which was set to feature the not-so-successful (read: losing) contestants from former Bachelor and Bachelorette seasons  was shut down last week following allegations that contestant DeMario Jackson had sex with another contestant while she was too intoxicated to consent. It had been filming for less than a week when it was suspended.





Keira told NW she was ready to fly over when she found out:





I had my bags all ready to go, then on Sunday morning, I woke up and literally had five missed calls.





Sam said he was relieved to longer be involved:

Im very shocked and surprised [the production company] would blatantly ignore their duty of care.





Its unclear what role they would be playing on the show, as I cant imagine they would be all that famous to American fans of the franchise, but it looks like we may never find out.





The allegations of sexual misconduct are currently under investigation, with Jacksons lawyer claiming that video will exonerate his client .

Source: News.com.au .
You can tell a lot about a person by their bed sheets.

Some people are fastidious with their bedding arrangements and wash their 1,200 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets every week, without fail.

Others dont get around to changing the Kmart sheets theyve slept in since 2009 till the end of every month.

No matter which group you identify with, you can surely appreciate bedding extraness when you see it. And theres nothing more extra than these 24-karat gold bedsheets found in a hotel in Italy:

TownHouse Galleria in Milan is a luxury five star hotel thats the very first in the world to boast 24-karat gold woven sheets.

The 24 Carat Gold Sheets have been conceived by Alessandro Rosso Dubai, designed by Federico Buccellati and made by Piana Clerico 1582, reads a page of their website dedicated entirely to explaining the sheets. Sheets are made of a fabric woven with 24 Carat Gold (40%) and the most precious silk yarns. The parure includes one bottom sheet, four pillowcases, and one duvet cover. Piana Clerico 1582 certificate of guarantee guarantees the authenticity.

The sheets are a feature of the Seven Stars Ottagono Presidential Suite in the hotel, which also presents a breath-taking panoramic view of the center of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

If you want to experience the sheets but cant be arsed traveling all the way to Milan, you can buy them, and theyll come complete in precious boxes with a guarantee certificate and gold thread coil for a cool AUD$293,909.

Have you ever experiencde to #SleepinGold? ??? From 15th of May, you can book our Presidential Suite and join us as the 1st hotel in the World where to sleep in 24carat sheets. #TheTHLife #AlessandroRossoDubai #Dubai #UAE #???? A post shared by TownHouse Galleria, Milan (@townhousegalleria) on May 13, 2017 at 2:30pm PDT

Not sold on the benefit of sleeping in pure gold? The hotel goes on to explain exactly why you need to purchase these sheets in a rather embellished fashion:

Symbol of wealth and royalty, gold stimulates wisdom and desire for knowledge. It has a protective effect, brings vital energy, increases self-esteem, courage, and willpower and amplifies positive feelings.

Ill take ten!

Got a side hustle project involving extra interiors? Maybe youve made something else gold. Whatever it is, you should enter our comp c/o Set for Life  youll win $5k to go toward your side-hustle, plus a luxe weekender in Sydney where youll meet ultra boss lady Eleanor Pendleton of Gritty Pretty.

PEDESTRIAN.TV X SET FOR LIFE LUXE WEEKENDER GIVEAWAY

Source: Gizmodo.

Photo: TownHouse Hotels.
A Coca-Cola tweet meant to hype its "ice-cold" drink instead added to the rivalry between Pennsylvania's two largest cities.

The company attempted to capitalize on the heat wave in Pittsburgh Sunday with an animated video showing a Coca-Cola bottle dropping ice cubes on the area. Unfortunately for them, the map showed Philadelphia instead of the western Pennsylvania city.

Suffice it to say, residents poked fun at the company for the error. Here are some of our favorite responses:

Ahem... "I was elected to represent the people of Pittsburgh, not Philadelphia."



Right Mayor @PhillyMayor https://t.co/38BRCgxzjs  bill peduto (@billpeduto) June 19, 2017

Hi. I'm a Geographer. I'm from Pittsburgh. You might want to look at maps...  John Wolf (@geom_00) June 19, 2017
A 16-year-old runner who texted his mother that he was being chased by a bear as he competed in a popular race over mountainous terrain was killed Sunday just south of Anchorage.

The teenage boy, whose identity has not been released, was competing in the juniors division of the Robert Spurr Memorial Hill Climb, a race that is in its 29th year. The race director told KTUU that the runner was beginning his descent near the halfway point on Bird Ridge Trail, which takes runners up a mountain that rises over the Seward Highway between Anchorage and Girdwood. Juniors race to the halfway point, about 1.5 miles from the start, before heading down.

"The mother was here with her family, her children," Anchorage Police Dept. Sgt. Nathan Mitchell told KTUU. "They were running the race."

Sightings and encounters with bears are not unusual in Alaska. "I've been running in the mountains for 30 years," Brad Precosky, a race director, said. "People come down off the trail and say they've run into a bear. Sometimes that means nothing; other times, it's really serious. Like this."

When a member of the runner's family received the text message, he sought Precosky. "I went off and talked to him about it, trying to get a straight story," Precosky said. "He was very shaken and had received this communication."

Other runners say they had lost the teen in thick brush and, when they came running down the trail to report the attack, runners and officials ran to help. One runner said he had seen a bear circling a teen. Using GPS coordinates from the teen's phone, searchers were able to find the boy, but were unable to immediately close in.

"The bear was remaining in the area where the young man was laying," Tom Crockett, a Chugach State Park ranger told the Alaska Dispatch News. A ranger shot the bear in the face, but it fled and officials from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game as well as rangers were searching for it.

"There was a brown bear sighting, there was a black bear with cubs sighting," Precosky said. "We didn't know which was which."

The boy, who was pronounced dead at the scene, was found about a mile up the trail on what Mitchell said was "really, really rugged" terrain at about 1,500 vertical feet. His body was airlifted off the mountain.

"This young man didn't do anything wrong," Crockett said. "He was just in the wrong place. You can't predict which bear is going to be predatory."
By ELAINE GANLEY and LORI HINNANT, Associated Press

PARIS (AP) -- A man on the radar of French authorities was killed Monday after ramming a car carrying explosives into a police vehicle in the capital's Champs-Elysees shopping district, prompting a fiery blast, officials said. France's anti-terrorism prosecutor opened an investigation.

No police officers or passers-by were hurt, the Paris police department said. It is unclear why the attacker drove into police, though officials said the incident was apparently deliberate.

Interior Minister Gerard Collomb said the man was killed after an attempted attack on a police convoy, saying that shows the threat is still very high in the country and justifies a state of emergency in place since 2015. He said he will present a bill Wednesday at a Cabinet meeting to extend the state of emergency from July 15, its current expiration date, until Nov. 1.

He says the current situation in France shows a new security law "is needed" and the measure would "maintain a high security level."

Two police officials told The Associated Press that a handgun was found on the driver, who they said was badly burned after the vehicle exploded. They identified the man as a 31-year-old man from the Paris suburb of Argenteuil who had an "S'' file, meaning he was flagged for links to extremism.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal details of the incident, the second this year on the city's most famous avenue, which is popular with tourists from around the world.

An attacker defending the Islamic State group fatally shot a police officer on the Champs-Elysees in April, days before a presidential election, prompting an extensive security operation.

On Monday, police cordoned off a broad swath of the Champs-Elysees after the latest incident, warning people to avoid the area.

Interior Ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet said the incident was apparently deliberate.

Police "pulled an individual out of the vehicle who had struck the car in front (of the convoy, " Brandet told reporters. "Large numbers of police converged on the scene, firefighters to extinguish the fire."

A man could be seen lying on his stomach on the ground immediately after the incident, wearing a white shirt and dark shorts.

Hours later, access to the avenue remained blocked, while bomb squads combed the area.

Eric Favereau, a journalist for Liberation newspaper who was driving a scooter behind the gendarmes, said he saw a car blocking the convoy's path, then an implosion in the vehicle. Favereau wrote that the gendarmes smashed open the windows of the car while it was in flames and dragged out its occupant. Other gendarmes used fire extinguishers to put out the flames. The account didn't say what happened to the occupant of the car afterward.

Visitors to a nearby Auguste Rodin exhibit were confined inside the Grand Palais exhibit hall for an hour after the incident.

Victoria Boucher and daughter Chrystel came in from the suburb of Cergy-Pontoise for a Paris visit and weren't afraid to go to the famed avenue.

"We were better off inside than outside," Chrystel said. But both agreed as the mother said, "unfortunately we now are used to this."

"The show must go on," the daughter said in English. "They won't win."

Sylvie Corbet and Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.
Will Pennsylvania's elected officials turn to the cigarette to balance one more state budget?

Could happen, and this time it's got nothing to do with cigarette tax rates.

Several sources told PennLive last week one strategy under study to get to budget closure without a major tax increase is floating a bond issue against future proceeds owed Pennsylvania from the 1998 national tobacco settlement.

There is no consensus for this move yet, the sources cautioned, and there is no prospective deal available for review.

But it is on the list of possibilities as Gov. Tom Wolf and legislative leaders dig in for the legislative equivalent of a cram session to finalize and balance a new budget for 2017-18. The new fiscal year starts July 1.

Supporters believe it could be possible to take a bond issue to raise the cash needed to close most of a nearly $2 billion deficit arising from sluggish tax collections this year, and then allocate a portion - it's not clear how much - of the future tobacco settlement payments to pay the debt service.

That would set off a fresh survival-of-the-fittest battle among the six programs that receive tobacco funding now.

(In the current fiscal year, tobacco funding was earmarked for: subsidizing nursing home care for low-income elderly and disabled; health care for workers with disabilities; state-funded health research; pro bono care at hospitals; services that help seniors stay in their homes; and smoking prevention and cessation programs.)

One essential question is, would that limited reallocation battle be easier for Wolf and lawmakers than approving a large expansion of legalized gambling or battling over the merits of a new tax on Marcellus Shale gas production?

A spokeswoman for the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania had little to say about the emerging proposal Friday, noting only that "we are in discussions with the legislature on this matter."

It's been done elsewhere.

In fact, to date 19 states have "securitized" their tobacco payments since 1999, raising a total of $64 billion. Some states used the money to fill budget holes. Others used it for capital programs, like school construction.

Many fiscal conservatives at and around the Pennsylvania Capitol hate the idea of taking out a long-term obligation - i.e. a bond issue - to help pay for operating costs.

To them, it's akin to using your credit card to pay the monthly cable bill.

And the bond's proceeds would represent another one-time revenue source thrown against what has been a stubborn recurring deficit.

But supporters point to the hope that state revenues will rebound in 2017-18 to a level much closer to current spending, meaning that a one-time infusion may be just the kind of bridge needed to get to brighter days.

A forecast issued by the state's Independent Fiscal Office Thursday showed projected 2.8 percent growth through the new budget year. If realized, that would leave lawmakers a much smaller deficit to deal with going forward.

No legislative leaders have publicly endorsed the tobacco bond concept to date.

But Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, a Republican from Centre County, did tell The PLS Reporter this after a Wednesday meeting with his House Republican counterparts: "Obviously, we aren't looking at any new taxes [to balance the new budget], so we've got to look within and see what we can do to maximize our abilities with the assets that we have."

Attempts to reach Corman for this report were unsuccessful.

Several key Democrats, meanwhile, said Friday they still believe the best option is to address budget deficits head-on with new and recurring taxes, starting with Wolf's proposal to tax natural gas production in the Marcellus Shale.

But with Wolf and Republican majorities having taken personal income and sales tax rate increases off the table early on in this budget cycle, ideas like a tobacco revenue bond are filling the void.

"Unfortunately, we have very limited options when we restrict our ability to do our jobs, revenue-wise," said Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, from Allegheny County. "You're left with bad choices."

Pennsylvania is one of 46 states receiving annual payments from the nation's largest tobacco companies through settlement of a landmark suit for smoking-related health care costs.

Since 1999, Pennsylvania has received $6.5 billion through the agreement, according to an accounting by the National Association of Attorneys General. Over the last three years, payments here have averaged $353.6 million.

The settlement payments are expected to decrease over the long term, as the number of smokers in America continues to decline, but apparently not by enough to totally chill this market.

A research report by IHS Global Inc. for a 2015 tobacco bond refinancing in California projected an average annual decline in cigarette consumption of approximately 3 percent through 2045 due to factors like the emergence of electronic cigarettes, stronger indoor smoking bans and lower participation rates in the smoking habit by younger generations.

One bond rating agency, Fitch Ratings, actually stopped issuing ratings for tobacco-backed bonds last year, citing uncertainties both in long-term tobacco sales and the enforcement of the settlement agreement.

California, however, calmed any market jitters with a pledge to apply general fund dollars to the debt service should settlement payments ever fall short. Its bonds went to market with 'A' ratings.

Wolf and the legislative leaders have other tools at their disposal.

There are, for example, competing proposals to approve new forms of legalized gambling.

Both chambers have passed legislation permitting on-line games run through the state's existing commercial casinos and internet-based sales of Lottery tickets, but Senate leaders have been cool to a House-passed plan to permit small numbers of slot machines in state-licensed bars and private clubs.

As in recent years, there is also likely to be discussion of whether some of the current exemptions to the state's 6 percent sales tax should be ended.

And Wolf appears to be making little headway so far with his calls for the Marcellus Shale severance tax, but that has not been officially pulled off the table yet, either.

A non-tax plan like the tobacco proposal, if the final numbers work, could dramatically reduce the leaders' need to find new money from those other sources.

And that, for now, makes this an intriguing idea to watch.
A member of Penn State's Blue Band and Palmyra denizen Katie Schreckengast was crowned Miss Pennsylvania on Saturday night.

Schreckengast now has an opportunity to compete in the Miss America pageant on Sept. 10 in Atlantic City. She will receive $8,500 from scholarships and sponsors.

We caught up with Penn State student @KatieMaySchreck after she was crowned Miss Pennsylvania over the weekend https://t.co/Qch2oxarKM pic.twitter.com/VSOJnBiWca  The Daily Collegian (@DailyCollegian) June 19, 2017

According to a report in The Daily Collegian, Schreckengast calls the title her "dream job." She will have the opportunity to travel throughout the state and plans to take a year off from college before returning to Penn State in 2018 for her senior year.

Schreckengast told The Daily Collegian that an uncle, a long-time volunteer for the Miss America Organization, introduced her to the pageant. She began competing in pageants when she was 13 years old.

Schreckengast has competed in Miss America's sister teen program, the Miss America's Outstanding Teen pageant (ages 13-17) and was crowned the Miss Pennsylvania's Outstanding Teen in 2013.

"When I was deciding whether to compete in the Miss program, I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't compete unless I was ready to be Miss Pennsylvania," Schreckengast told The Daily Collegian.

She is the second Miss Pennsylvania to have also been crowned Miss Pennsylvania's Outstanding Teen.

In a pre-contest interview on Saturday, Schreckengast spoke about one of her favorite topics - that of her adoption. Schreckengast was adopted from South Korea when she was 6 months old. She chose Building Families Through Adoption as her personal platform.

"I'm running on adrenaline, two hours of sleep and at least four coffees," Schreckengast said. "This has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember, so it's still hard to believe."

A member of Penn State's Blue Band, Schreckengast for the talent portion of the contest worked with fellow band friends to perfect Beyonce's "Listen" on her dad's alto saxophone.

During the interview she spoke of her grandfather, who passed away two months ago.

"I knew my grandpa was with me in that moment," Schreckengast told the Penn State-based news outlet. "I felt overwhelmingly blessed to be experiencing what I was experiencing."
Lebanon police have charged a 30-year-old man with the robbery of Zweier's Foodkart Friday afternoon.

George Kemrer, of no known address, was arrested Saturday with the help of tips from the public, said Lebanon police.

He is accused of entering the store in the 500 block of South Lincoln Avenue around noon, demanding money from the clerk. No weapon was displayed, but he kept his right hand in his pocket, police said.

Kemrer was charged with robbery and placed in Lebanon County Prison in lieu of $40,000 bail. He was also arraigned on warrants from Palmyra Police and South Londonderry Police departments.
On June 19, 1865 a Union general arrived in Galveston, Texas, with some big news.

"The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free," Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger declared in a general order.

"This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor."

The announcement spurred confusion in Galveston, and former slaves who acted on their new freedom were often targeted with violence, according to Henry Louis Gates Jr. However, a year later, the black population of Texas held the first "Juneteenth" celebration.

According to the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, Juneteenth is the "oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States."

The holiday quickly became popular in Texas, according to Gates. Celebrations often included readings of the Emancipation Proclamation and religious sermons and spirituals. Observance of the holiday slowly spread across the country from Texas, but lost traction in the 20th century.

However, Juneteenth celebrations made a resurgence following the Poor Peoples March in 1968. In an interview with the Smithsonian, Dr. William Wiggins Jr., who has written about the holiday, said Rev. Ralph Abernathy held a Juneteenth celebration on the last day of the march.

Wiggins said he believes the holiday then "took on a life of its own" as people brought Juneteenth with them when they left Washington D.C.

The day is an officially recognized day in 45 states. In 2012, the Pennsylvania House passed a

to declare every third Saturday of June to be as "Juneteenth National Freedom Day."
The Montgomery County District attorney is urging a judge to keep secret the names of jurors in the Bill Cosby trial, saying that making the names public may make it more difficult to find an impartial jury for Cosby's retrial.

Philadelphia Media Network , PennLive and other news organizations filed a motion in Montgomery County Court earlier this month asking the judge to make public the names of the juries. The judge declined to do so while the trial was going on, but indicated he would consider releasing the names after the trial.

Attorney Eli Segal of Pepper Hamilton LLP, representing the media organizations, argued that the names of jurors is of "extraordinary public importance" and that news outlets have a First Amendment right to it.

Judge Steven O'Neill declared a mistrial in the Coby case Saturday when jurors, after deliberating for 52 hours, told him they were hopelessly deadlocked. O'Neill kept the jurors names under seal.

Prosecutors immediately said they would seek a second trial of Cosby, 79, who is accused of drugging and sexually assaulting college administrator Andrea Constand at his home near Philadelphia in 2004.

Although prosecutors previously asked that juror names not be made public until after the trial, Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele on Monday filed a motion opposing the request to release the names.

He acknowledged that the public has a right to jurors names in most cases -- "Armed with such knowledge, the public can confirm the impartiality of the jury, which acts as an additional check upon the prosecutorial and judicial process,"Steele wrote -- but argued that in this case, the rights of all parties to a fair trial could be prejudiced by the release of names.

"This case has garnered nationwide, and even international, media attention," Steele wrote. "A jury was selected from Allegheny County, due to defendant's concerns about media saturation in the Philadelphia media market. During trial, the courtroom was filled every day with reporters, media satellite trucks lined both sides of Swede Street outside the courthouse, and more than 150 media were credentialed to cover the trial."

Now, he said, reporters want to talk to jurors about their deliberations, and what led to the jury becoming deadlocked.

"This Court will schedule jury selection for the retrial in the upcoming weeks. If the press saturates the nationwide media market with stories about jury deliberations, including juror opinions about the evidence, it may make the parties' ability to select a fair and impartial jury more difficult," Steele argued.
Manheim Township School District broke state law when it failed to publicly vote on a separation agreement with its former superintendet, an audit by state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale concluded.

Ending that contract cost the district at least $358,000 DePasquale said.

"School boards certainly have a right to terminate a superintendent's contract. However, the process should be completely transparent and done legally," DePasquale said in a written news release. "The process Manheim Township School District used to terminate the former superintendent's contract was neither."

DePasquale undertook an audit of the school district after his office was contacted by more than 25 people expressing concerns about the contract termination and other financial issues.

The audit of the district covers July 1, 2013, through June 30, 2016.

The former superintendent, John Nodecker, resigned amid a cloud of suspicion in 2016. There were rumors of impropriety on his part and of transparency law violations by the board as a growing number of public meetings on the subject withdrew into adjacent, and some argued illegal, closed-door sessions.

In a blistering memo sent to the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General, Nodecker claimed he was forced out after he tried to address "numerous questionable behaviors and practices by board members and high-ranking administrators."

Auditors determined the Manheim Township School Board made two major procedural errors in terminating the former superintendent's contract.

First, even though the board knew about the former superintendent's resignation and actually signed the separation agreement, the item was deliberately omitted from the agenda for its Jan. 21, 2016, meeting. During the meeting, the board voted to amend the agenda to include the resignation.

"Details of the former superintendent's resignation and resulting separation agreement were provided to the public by the news media, not by the board," DePasquale said in a news release. "Simply making a motion to amend the agenda is inexcusable. Manheim Township School District taxpayers deserve more transparency."

Second, auditors found, the board never publicly approved the separation agreement, which is a violation of the Public School Code (PSC).

The audit also found that the superintendent's contract didn't specify the salary and benefit payments he received under the separation agreement.

district management agreed that all of the separation agreement terms were not specified in the original contract but contended that the agreement was in the best interest of the district.

The costs associated with the separation agreement were:
A Mechanicsburg man was handed what amounts to a life prison sentence Monday for his second conviction for raping a young girl.

Dauphin County President Judge Richard A. Lewis hit Luis A. Cruz, 56, with that 35- to 70-year jail term less than a month after

"I believe that he's a danger to children and this should guarantee he is behind bars for the rest of his life," Chief Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Gettle said.

Harrisburg police said Cruz raped the girl repeatedly in 2007 and 2008 while he lived with her mother. The victim was 8 and 9 years old at the time. She reported the abuse during an argument with her mother in 2014.

Cruz is a second-strike sex offender because he had another conviction in 1995 for molesting another girlfriend's 10-year-old daughter. He pleaded guilty in that case and served a 3- to 10-year prison term.

Gettle called the victim of the 1995 crime to testify during Cruz's latest trial. In addition to the child rape charge, the jury convicted Cruz of aggravated indecent assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, indecent assault, unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of a minor.
LANCASTER -- So if your local school district violated state law by failing to publicly vote to blow $358,000 in your money to buy out the contract of a former superintendent, and then got called on it by Pennsylvania's top fiscal watchdog, you'd probably expect some degree of penitence.

Right?

Not in the Manheim Township schools, where gross incompetence, a penchant for operating behind closed doors, and messenger-shooting is apparently the order of the day.

Here's what Mark Anderson, the township school board's president, had to say Monday when state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale blistered the suburban Lancaster County district in a new audit:

"This has been a long, but successful, road for this District and the current school board," Anderson said in a statement posted to the district's web site. "Our community has rallied together to show positive support for the board and school district that, as this final, full performance audit shows, had unwarranted negative reporting by the local media."

Again, that's for spending $358,000 in taxpayer cash on a dodgy separation agreement with former school superintendent John Nodecker that, among other things, was approved out of public view, and didn't specify the salary and benefit payments he received under the agreement.

At a news conference at Lancaster City Hall on Monday, DePasquale said that if it had been up to him - and if it were possible - he would have called for a no-confidence vote in a board that acted more like the Politburo than a democratically elected school board supposedly accountable to the taxpayers.

"I'm speechless," he said of the district's towering arrogance, adding later, "Every single dollar spent on contract buyouts is one less dollar spent on students."

In case you're tuning in late, here's a brief history lesson:

Nodecker resigned under a cloud in 2016 amid rumors of impropriety on his part, and of transparency law violations by the board, as a growing number of public meetings on that subject resulted in a number of closed-door, and as some argued, illegal sessions.

In a blistering memo sent DePasquale's office, Nodecker claimed he was forced out after he tried to address "numerous questionable behaviors and practices by board members and high-ranking administrators."

DePasquale undertook an audit of the school district after his office was contacted by more than 25 people expressing concerns about the contract termination and other financial issues. In fact, DePasquale pushed up the audit by a year because of the outcry.

State auditors determined that the board made two, entirely bonehaded errors when they showed Nodecker the door.

First, the board deliberately omitted the separation agreement from its Jan 21, 2016 agenda, even though it knew about Nodecker's resignation and had already signed the document. During that meeting, the board voted to amend its agenda to include the resignation.

Second, the school board never publicly approved its separation agreement, in violation of the state's public school code.

Auditors also found that Nodecker's separation agreement didn't include such niggly details as the salary and benefits he was to receive under the agreement.

Even though those key items were left out, district officials made the fanciful argument that the agreement was still in the best interests of the district.

But not the taxpaying public - which had to find out from local media outlets, not their democratically elected school board, of the illegal actions carried out in their name.

For their trouble, one of those local news outlets was denounced as "fake news" and got sued for its news-gathering efforts.

"If you can't defend your position publicly then you shouldn't be doing it," DePasquale said Monday. "And it is very clear to me that they were trying to avoid trying to publicly explain and defend what they were doing."

For the board to "then come back and say it [the separation agreement] was in the best interest of the district does not pass the smell test," he said.

But it's not like the district oh ... say ... apologized for its illegal actions.

Instead, it doubled-down in the Orwellian statement posted to its website, noting that the only place where DePasquale's office found fault in a stem-to-stern audit was "with administrator contract buyouts."

Which, one more time, was done without any public input and cost the taxpayers $358,000 of their money.

Without actually using the word "sorry" or the phrase, "We apologize," the district acknowledged that it ... oops ... didn't post Nodecker's buy-out on its agenda.

"The district agrees with the Auditor General's report that the separation agreement should have been publicly posted on the Board Agenda," reads the statement, which must have been lawyered to within an inch of its life. "However, school board directors and administrators who were working in the District Office at the time were following legal recommendations pertaining to Board procedures, and were unaware that the actual separation agreement needed to be posted on the Board agenda."

Yes, the buffoonery in Manheim is an isolated incident. In general, school districts tend to be pretty well-run operations where the best interests of students win out over the arrogance of the (alleged) grown-ups elected to oversee their education.

At his news conference, DePasquale said he hoped such a situation would never repeat itself.

One can only hope.
By Tom Ridge

Twenty years ago this week, I was privileged to sign the Commonwealth's first charter school law, which provided meaningful educational options for Pennsylvania families whose children were stuck in underperforming public schools.

PennLive file

My purpose in leading the fight for charter schools was to create a new model for public education that would put the needs of students first, giving all children a better chance at a quality education.

Two decades later, with nearly 160 charter schools statewide that serve more than 100,000 students, plus a waiting list of tens of thousands more children, it is clear that charter schools are an invaluable asset in public education, particularly when it comes to serving those in poverty.

Despite the remarkable success of charters, however, there remains much work to be done in the effort to secure a quality public education for all children. All schools must be accountable for the children they serve, and we must end the bitter debates that too often pit charters against traditional public schools.

That's why I support a bipartisan initiative now under consideration in the Legislature that is designed to foster the growth of additional high-quality charter schools, provide more equitable funding across the entire Pennsylvania school system, and provide every parent with the ability to choose a public school that best fits the needs of their children.

It is the long-awaited next step in education reform, and it deserves our support.

What was true in 1997 remains true today: When it comes to public education, the "one size fits all" model of traditional public education no longer works in today's world. Parents need options that best serve their needs, especially in communities fighting the scourge of poverty.

Charter schools were and are a parent-led effort to push back against an outmoded public education system that too often prioritizes the needs of the adults in schools over the children they were hired to serve. In too many of these schools, bureaucrats, teachers unions and others heavily invested in preserving the status quo make real reform virtually impossible.

By contrast, charter schools provide an option that is still public - charters are publicly financed and do not charge tuition - yet are independent of the constraints of the bureaucracy and outmoded work rules.

So charters can devote greater resources to helping children achieve positive results. And because they are not bound by the same bureaucratic constraints, they bring new ideas and new energy to the task of educating children.

I am proud that charters have become an essential element of public education in Pennsylvania.

That is not to say that they should replace traditional public schools. On the contrary, all sides in the education debate can agree that good public schools are essential to our future, and they deserve the support of Pennsylvania taxpayers.

But charter schools are here to stay.

Parents demand the right to choose the best options for their children, especially in communities where traditional public schools aren't up to the job.

Families across the Commonwealth have made it clear that charter schools are good for Pennsylvania.

Twenty years after the enactment of the law that created charter schools, we now have the opportunity to enact additional reforms that will improve the performance of charters and traditional public schools across the state.

I can think of no better way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this landmark law than to enact a commonsense set of new reforms that improve the quality of education all children receive in Pennsylvania.

Tom Ridge, a Republican, is the former governor of Pennsylvania and the nation's first Secretary of Homeland Security.
Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard, right, and Parti Quebecois Leader Jean-Francois Lisee, shakes hands at end of the spring session at the legislature in Quebec City on June 16, 2017. Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard will be in Washington, D.C., today for a one-day visit that will include a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump's point man on trade. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot
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FILE - This April 30, 2017, file photo provided by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) shows fighters from the SDF looking toward the northern town of Tabqa, Syria. The U.S.-led coalition headquarters in Iraq said in a written statement that a U.S. F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 on Sunday, June 18, after it dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa. (Syrian Democratic Forces via AP, File)
Which Michigan bands are leading the airwaves this fall?

Five albums made a splash on the latest Local Spins Hot Top 5 Chart, representing the local and regional releases that received the most radio airplay at Grand Rapids WYCE.
Trump's new Cuba policy corrects Obama's

"terrible and misguided deal" with Havana

Reuters/Joe Skipper



U.S. President Donald Trump holds a document he signed after announcing his Cuba policy at the Manuel Artime Theater in the Little Havana neighborhood in Miami, Florida, U.S. June 16, 2017.

MIAMI

Petroleumworld 06 19 2017

President Donald Trump on Friday ordered tighter restrictions on Americans traveling to Cuba and a clampdown on U.S. business dealings with the Caribbean island's military, saying he was canceling former President Barack Obama's "terrible and misguided deal" with Havana.

Laying out his new Cuba policy in a speech in Miami, Trump signed a presidential directive rolling back parts of Obama's historic opening to the Communist-ruled country after a 2014 diplomatic breakthrough between the two former Cold War foes.

But Trump left in place many of Obama's changes, including the reopened U.S. embassy in Havana, even as he sought to show he was making good on a campaign promise to take a tougher line against Cuba, especially over its human rights record.

"We will not be silent in the face of communist oppression any longer," Trump told a cheering crowd in Miami's Cuban-American enclave of Little Havana, including Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, who helped forge the new restrictions on Cuba.

"Effective immediately, I am canceling the last administration's completely one-sided deal with Cuba," Trump declared as he made a full-throated assault on the government of Cuban President Raul Castro.

Cuba later denounced the move as a setback in U.S.-Cuban relations, saying Trump had been badly advised and was resorting to "coercive methods of the past" that were doomed to fail. The government remained willing to engage in "respectful dialogue," it said in a statement.

Trump's revised approach calls for stricter enforcement of a longtime ban on Americans going to Cuba as tourists, and seeks to prevent U.S. dollars from being used to fund what the Trump administration sees as a repressive military-dominated government. ( tmsnrt.rs/2rBfMTI )

But, facing pressure from U.S. businesses and even some fellow Republicans to avoid turning back the clock completely in relations with Cuba, the president chose to leave intact some of his Democratic predecessor's steps toward normalization.

The new policy bans most U.S. business transactions with the Armed Forces Business Enterprises Group, a Cuban conglomerate involved in all sectors of the economy. But it makes some exceptions, including for air and sea travel, according to U.S. officials. This will essentially shield U.S. airlines and cruise lines serving the island.

"We do not want U.S. dollars to prop up a military monopoly that exploits and abuses the citizens of Cuba," Trump said, pledging that U.S. sanctions would not be lifted until Cuba frees political prisoners and holds free elections.

While the changes are far-reaching, they appear to be less sweeping than many U.S. pro-engagement advocates had feared.

Trump based his partial reversal of Obama's Cuba measures largely on human rights grounds.

His critics, however, have questioned why his administration is now singling out Cuba for human rights abuses but downplaying the issue in other parts of the world, including Saudi Arabia, a close U.S. ally Trump visited last month where political parties and protests are banned.

SOME OBAMA POLICIES LEFT IN PLACE

Trump, however, stopped short of breaking diplomatic relations restored in 2015 after more than five decades of hostilities. He also will not cut off recently resumed direct U.S.-Cuba commercial flights or cruise-ship travel, though his more restrictive policy seems certain to dampen new economic ties overall.

The administration, according to one White House official, has no intention of disrupting existing business ventures such as one struck under Obama by Starwood Hotels Inc, which is owned by Marriott International Inc, to manage a historic Havana hotel.

Nor does Trump plan to reinstate limits that Obama lifted on the amount of the island's coveted rum and cigars that Americans can bring home for personal use.

Still, it will be the latest attempt by Trump to overturn parts of Obama's presidential legacy. He has already pulled the United States out of a major international climate treaty and is trying to scrap his predecessor's landmark healthcare program.

When Obama announced the detente in 2014, he said that decades of U.S. efforts to achieve change in Cuba by isolating the island had failed and it was time to try a new approach.

Critics of the rapprochement said Obama was giving too much away without extracting concessions from the Cuban government. Castro's government has clearly stated it does not intend to change its one-party political system.

Trump aides say Obama's efforts amounted to "appeasement" and have done nothing to advance political freedoms in Cuba, while benefiting the Cuban government financially.

"It's hard to think of a policy that makes less sense than the prior administration's terrible and misguided deal with the Castro regime," Trump said in Miami.

International human rights groups say, however, that renewed U.S. efforts to isolate the island could worsen the situation by empowering Cuban hard-liners.

The Cuban government, which has made clear it will not be pressured into reforms, had no immediate comment.

But ordinary Cubans said they were crestfallen to be returning to an era of frostier relations with the United States with potential economic fallout for them.

"It's like we are returning to the Cold War," said Cuban designer Idania del Rio, who joined a group of friends in a hotel in Old Havana to watch the speech in English on CNN.

Trump announced his new approach at the Manuel Artime Theater in the heart of the United States' largest Cuban-American and Cuban exile community, whose support aides believe helped him win Florida in the election.

The venue is named after a leader of the failed U.S.-backed Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba in 1961 against Fidel Castro's revolutionary government.

I have trust in Trump to do the right thing when it comes to Cuba, said Jorge Saurez, 66, a retired physician in Little Havana.

Trump's vow to keep the broader decades-old U.S. economic embargo on Cuba firmly in place drew criticism from some U.S. farmers, especially growers of corn, soybeans and rice. Obama's detente has already lifted exports and raised hopes for more gains, which they said were now in doubt.

Mexico's foreign ministry urged the United States and Cuba to resolve their differences "via dialogue."

But Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whose leftist government is Cuba's main regional ally, slammed Trump's tightening of restrictions as an "offence" against Latin America.

"His speech was aggressive and threatening, ... revealing his contempt and ignorance," President Nicolas Maduro said in a speech. "We reject Donald Trump's declarations against our brother Cuba. It is an offence against Latin America."

The biggest change in travel policy will be that Americans making educational people-to-people trips, one of the most popular authorized categories, can no longer go to the island on their own but only on group tours. Trump's aides said the aim was to close off a path for Americans seeking beach vacations in a country where U.S. tourism is still officially banned.

U.S. Senator Jeff Flake, one of the Republican Party's most vocal advocates for easing rules on U.S. dealings with Cuba, called for a vote on legislation lifting restrictions on American travel there. But the Republican leadership in Congress has long blocked such a move, and it appears unlikely to budge.

Under Trump's order, the Treasury and Commerce departments will be given 30 days to begin writing new regulations, which will not take effect until they are complete.

In contentious deliberations leading up to the new policy, some aides argued that Trump, a former real estate magnate who won the presidency vowing to unleash U.S. business, would have a hard time defending any moves that close off the Cuban market.

But other advisers have contended that it is important to make good on a campaign promise to Cuban-Americans.






This piece, titled, The New Plague, depicts life in Philadelphia in the age of COVID. Artist and educator Raphael Tiberino began painting at the age of four and has been in the spotlight as a professional creative for over 25 years.
Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr. (D., Pa.) has called on Kellogg Co. to explain its plans for suburban distribution centers in suburban Philadelphia and Pittsburgh that the company intends to close in August, idling more than 500 workers, as part of the cereal and snack company's consolidation of its national delivery network.

In a letter to Paul Norman, president of Kellogg's North America division at corporate headquarters in Battle Creek, Mich., Casey asked Kellogg to continue its "long-standing commitment to the Pennsylvania workforce" and clarify its plans for the Horsham and Pittsburgh plants, the company's cereal-processing plant in East Hempfield Township, Lancaster County, and other Kellogg employees in the state.

Last winter, Kellogg said it would close distribution centers across the U.S. as it scraps its system for delivering cereal, cookies, and other snacks directly to stores in favor of working through retail company distributors, an arrangement suppliers say resembles the model used by Walmart, the largest U.S. store retailer and a dominant customer for Kellogg's and other suppliers.

Besides Kellogg employees, the new system threatens small businesses, including regional truck and van delivery firms, that operate under contract to Kellogg distributors.

Kellogg, which has bought a string of smaller food companies and boosted profits as it consolidates its cereal and snack operations, did not return calls seeking comment.
Michael Franklin, teacher at Chester Arthur Elementary School, said the PFT contract proposal is a better deal than he expected, despite the fact that it does not make him fully whole for years of missed wages. Read more

Michael Franklin and his wife were touring a prospective house when he got the email: The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers had a tentative contract.

It felt like a sign as he contemplated buying his first home. Franklin, a Philadelphia School District science and math teacher who has gained national recognition for his work, has eight years of experience, but has been frozen at a fourth-year educator's salary  $54,365  since 2012. He doesn't get any extra pay for having earned his master's degree, and is earning $18,000 less than he expected to be making at this point, based on the last contract.

Franklin had to take on a second job to make ends meet.

And now, a breakthrough. The contract isn't perfect, said Franklin, a teacher at Chester Arthur, a K-8 school, but it is significant. The deal will cost the district $395 million, hundreds of millions more than the school system has budgeted for teachers over the three-year life of the contract, and a sum that will require additional funds from the city and state or, eventually, layoffs.

"The proposal allows me to take those next steps forward in my life with my family," he said. "It's not where I expected to be nine years in when I signed on with the district, but it's definitely something that will keep me in Philadelphia through the life of the contract."

The pact, which nearly 12,000 teachers, counselors, nurses, secretaries, and other school staff are scheduled to vote on Monday night, will last through 2020 if educators approve it.

To be certain, it does not make Franklin or anyone else whole. Though the contract has some salary increases and lump-sum payments, and includes the restoration of pay for years of experience and advanced degrees, he will still lose out on thousands.

"Given the realities of our political landscape right now, it's really good," Franklin said. "It's a better deal than what I was expecting. They did a pretty good job on all sides finding something that meets the needs of a majority of the members, but it is a shame that there are now years that a number of us have worked that we essentially don't get any credit for. There was a lot of talk about shared sacrifices, but I feel as if we teachers sacrificed a whole lot."

The deal gives Franklin and most teachers who have not yet hit the top of the pay scale one retroactive step in the form of a bonus check, bumps them up another step in September, and then another in 2018. In 2019, they get both a step and a 2 percent pay increase. Those hired prior to Sept. 1, 2014 would also jump an additional step. In 2020, those hired before Sept. 1, 2015 would advance another step.

The PFT asked teachers not to speak about the contract until the vote, and many declined to do so publicly. Many teachers said they were spending the weekend digesting the terms of the contract, which was tentatively agreed to Thursday night and announced Friday. The terms were released Saturday. On Sunday, some gathered at meetings organized by the Caucus of Working Educators, an activist group within the PFT, to process it together.

Kelley Collings, cochair of the Caucus, which has challenged union president Jerry Jordan's leadership, said the group was not taking a pro or con position on the contract.

After a weekend of intense discussions about its affect on teachers, students, and families of the city, Caucus leaders decided "to encourage everyone to cast an informed vote" by seeking answers "to many unanswered questions" at the ratification meeting.

The Caucus calculated how much members at different levels of experience and education would earn through the life of the contract, and how much they would lose out on. Those hurt most would be educators with just a few years' experience when the contract was frozen. Minus lump-sum payments, a fifth-year teacher with a master's, frozen at step two, would lose more than $25,000, including health insurance costs and missed steps over the term of the contract. A fifth-year teacher with a bachelor's would lose nearly $24,000.

But Klint Kanopka was sure how he was going to vote: yes.

The deal comes too late for the high school physics teacher at Academy at Palumbo, who planned to retire from the district but resigned, reluctantly, because of the contract. Kanopka, who is in the same boat as Franklin  he has eight years of experience and a master's degree and is paid as if he's a fourth-year teacher with a bachelor's  is headed to a doctoral program at Stanford, where his graduate assistant position will pay more than his current salary. (He is eligible to vote because his resignation is effective at the end of the school year, which for teachers runs through June.

He is one of a flood of teachers from Palumbo leaving this year, many because of the long contract stalemate.

Had the contract come this time last year, he absolutely would have stayed, Kanopka said. But without a pay raise on the horizon, feeding himself just got too hard, he said.

He calculated how much he would lose over his career if he had stayed: $68,000.

"That's huge to a reasonably young guy who rents a crappy apartment on Snyder Avenue and would have loved to purchase a house in a neighborhood where my students live," said Kanopka, whose teaching has also earned multiple prestigious awards. "But, given fiscal realities, it's a pretty solid contract."

Kanopka said he was pleasantly surprised by the retroactive step members will be awarded and the double step toward the end of the contract. And he's frankly glad that members will begin paying toward their health care  1.25 percent of base salary in September, 1.5 percent in 2019.

"The health-care thing is good because it puts us in a better light with other people who resented us for not paying for our health care, even though our salaries were pretty tragic," said Kanopka.

He is a self-professed "skeptic of all leadership" anywhere, but Kanopka said he thought the PFT team achieved a win.

"I think the PFT did a good job of balancing the needs of older members, newer members, and future members, too," he said.

Kelsey Green was hunting for other jobs, but the contract is enough to keep her in Philadelphia, where she is in her fourth year of teaching at Wilson Middle School in the Northeast. She is now paid as a brand-new teacher.

"I think every teacher and every student will benefit from it," said Green, 26. "As a teacher, this contract makes me feel appreciated. I feel I can give even more of myself to my students, and at the end of the day, that's the end goal."

She might also be able to move out of her parents' house, Green said, to think about marriage and a family down the road, to handle her $800 monthly student loan payments with more room to spare.

Green said she'll be proud to go to the Liacouras Center to vote "yes" with her mother, a senior career teacher in the district who also feels like the deal does good things for educators at her experience level. It also feels like a nod to her father's father, who, she said, was a founding member of the PFT.

"My grandfather went on strike many times in the past to give me the right to be able to vote for this," said Green. "This is a good deal for the people of Philadelphia."

Whether most teachers will agree with her remains to be seen. But a source close to the negotiations said that if PFT members vote down the contract, it could be painful.

"The district has no requirement to keep the amount of the current offer on the table," the source said. "There is every likelihood that it could be pulled or reduced."
TRENTON  Running a new college wasn't really supposed to be a lifetime thing.

Not just a new college, a new idea of college: one designed for adults, often people who had left college years earlier or never gone, mostly self-directing their own studies at their own pace, often never stepping foot on campus.

When Thomas Edison State College was formed in 1972, the idea was, well, nontraditional. The students, the courses, the school itself  nontraditional.

"When I came here, this place was only 10 years old, and no one knew how to serve adult students," said George A. Pruitt, who joined the school as president Dec. 1, 1982, and is retiring at the end of this year after 35 years.

"We essentially had to create this university from whole cloth, and I think that's why I've been here so long," he said. "I never intended to stay here 35 years. But the nature of the institution is that we are continually reinventing it, and it's been that joy and that opportunity and that privilege to really create an institution almost from scratch that has kept me involved and engaged."

Pruitt has been a fierce advocate for expanding access to higher education and to reimagining how students can best be served, said R. Barbara Gitenstein, the president of the College of New Jersey since 1999.

"George is really the dean of higher education leadership in the state," Gitenstein said.

Thomas Edison still exclusively serves adults over age 21 (the average student age is 36) and is now a university. Its enrollment of 17,500 makes it one of the largest schools in New Jersey.

It was a very different place when Pruitt arrived. There were no online courses, of course  what internet, what personal computers, what smartphones?  so students were taking courses by mail. In what amounted to glorified correspondence courses, students received materials, including VHS tapes and papers, in the mail and sent them back along with assignments and papers.

In the late 1980s, a few years after Pruitt arrived, the school began experimenting with digital courses. Primitive tools such as online bulletin boards evolved into sophisticated environments available today, including a flash-drive-based system that allows military members in remote locations such as submarines to take entire courses on a laptop without internet access.

Pruitt "encouraged and supported innovation throughout the institution, that was his role," said Drew Hopkins, the university's chief information officer, who joined the school in 1977. "He really, really had just extraordinary vision about the direction that higher ed was going in."

Today, only a handful of courses are taught in the university's buildings in Trenton, which constitute the barest idea of a campus. The vast majority of classes are online, with students taking entire degree programs that way. Many of those who show up to graduation are visiting the school for the first time.

Pruitt doesn't come from a technology background, but Hopkins and others said Pruitt has been able to develop Thomas Edison because of an intense focus on mission.

In an interview, Pruitt returns repeatedly to the point that the university is defined not by how it teaches but whom. At one point, he recites the university's mission statement verbatim: Thomas Edison State University provides flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning opportunities for self-directed adults.

"That's who we are," Pruitt said. "These other things are just methodologies that will come and go as the climate changes, as the needs of our students change, and as the society changes."

Some needs don't change. Thomas Edison State University's students largely aren't able to take courses full time during the day  they simply can't put careers and families on hold  and in many cases have been in college before but never finished.

Online courses, taken at the students' own pace on their time, help. So does "prior learning assessment," in which students demonstrate they have learned skills and knowledge in the real world.

"The form in which the learning took place is irrelevant to us," Pruitt said. "We don't care where the student learned it, we care about the fact that the student learned it."

But higher education broadly is changing, and that has created new competition for schools such as Thomas Edison. Community colleges have always had adult students, and for-profit colleges aggressively market their online options and target adults. Some public and private four-year schools have begun creating or growing their adult programs, as well, seeing a demographic shift away from 18- to 22-year-old students.

And the rise of the internet, which transformed Thomas Edison and other schools, also created competition across geography. Today, about 56 percent of TESU students are outside the state, including all 50 states and dozens of countries.

"Unfortunately, as funding has gone down for higher ed, for the publics, it's become a little bit of a game, chasing enrollment," said Merodie A. Hancock, the president of Empire State College, the State University of New York school similarly focused on adults. "One of the things online did is it created competition in whole new ways. We all had state turfs, and online opened it up where competition is suddenly so much higher."

That has made specialization so much more important for the adults-only schools individually and as a group. Pruitt has been a mentor to Hancock, who has been at Empire State for four years.

"I'm thankful he didn't retire until I had some years in here," she said, later joking: "I can't say I'm particularly happy with him retiring, but I wish him the best."

Pruitt plans to stay at Thomas Edison until Dec. 31 or until the trustees find a replacement, after which he will take a one-year sabbatical and return to the university in its school of public service and continuing studies.

"It's a huge legacy," Gitenstein, the TCNJ president, said of what her friend and colleague leaves behind. "It is intimidating, I would be scared to come in as the president.  I don't think that would be something that is just going to be an easy thing to follow."
He bowed out of a re-election bid in February, apologizing for the "embarrassment and shame" he brought to the District Attorney's Office with a series of ethical and financial missteps. The following month, Seth Williams was indicted on more than 21 counts, including wire fraud, honest services fraud, and bribery-related charges. In late June, during his federal fraud trial, he accepted a plea deal, pleading guilty to one count related to accepting a bribe, and resigning immediately. On Oct. 19, he was disbarred.

Who is Seth Williams? Williams was Philadelphia's top prosecutor. He was elected district attorney in 2009, with a campaign slogan of "A new day, a new DA" and was widely expected to have a bright future as a criminal justice reformer, but his tenure was marred by an ever-growing number of scandals tied to his personal financial struggles, staffing decisions in his office, and gifts he received and failed to report from wealthy benefactors. (READ MORE: For Seth Williams, a push for reform undone by penchant for the high life | The inevitable fall of Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams | Desperately seeking Seth)

What were his alleged crimes? Federal prosecutors accused Williams of repeatedly misusing campaign cash and government property to live well beyond his means and selling the influence of his office to two wealthy benefactors who showered him with gifts  including trips abroad, a $3,000 custom-built sofa, and a used Jaguar convertible. He faced 29 corruption-related counts including bribery, extortion, and honest services fraud. Williams denied the allegations and accused FBI and IRS investigators of attempting to turn perfectly legal politicking under state law into federal crimes. (DOCUMENT: Read the indictment | READ MORE: D.A. Seth Williams indicted on corruption, bribery-related charges | Philly DA Williams faces more federal corruption charges)

What was the plea deal? Williams pleaded guilty to one count related to accepting a bribe from Bucks County businessman Mohammad Ali, and resigned his office "humbly, sincerely, and effective immediately." The 28 remaining counts against Williams were dismissed, but he "admits that he committed all of the conduct in those 29 counts," Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Zauzmer said. Despite pleas that he be allowed to remain free until his sentencing  his attorney argued that Williams has no money to flee  U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond ordered him held, and U.S. Marshals led the DA out of court in handcuffs. Sentencing was set for Oct. 24. (READ MORE: Philly DA pleads guilty to corruption | What's next for Philly's District Attorney's Office?)

How did we get here? News of the FBI's interest in Seth Williams broke in 2015, when investigators subpoenaed records from his campaign, and the probe quickly heated up as investigators interviewed staffers in his office and requested records from a nonprofit he launched in 2011. As agents circled around him, Williams belatedly reported last year that he had received gifts worth more than $160,050 from wealthy supporters, which he had failed to report on his financial disclosure forms. The admission prompted a record fine from the city's Board of Ethics. Many of those gifts were at the heart of the federal case against him. READ MORE: Sources: D.A. Seth Williams' spending under federal probe | D.A. Williams belatedly reports $160,050 in gifts | U.S. probing Local 98 payment to send Seth Williams' daughters to summer camps abroad)

Why did the trial happen so quickly? U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond set an unusually brisk schedule, ordering the case to trial three months after prosecutors filed their indictment. Typically, it can take a year or more for lawyers on both sides to prepare for document-heavy public corruption cases. However, Diamond rejected government pleas for more time to get ready, explaining he was "hard-pressed to think of a case where the public's right to a speedy trial is more pressing than it is here," given Williams' decision to stay on as district attorney even while he fought felony charges. (READ MORE: Judge wants DA Seth Williams' trial to start as soon as next month | Lawyers in Seth Williams' case: We need more time)

How long did Williams stay in office? The district attorney agreed to a temporary suspension of his law license days after he was indicted in March, but vowed to remain in his post until he could be vindicated at trial. Because he was not an active lawyer, he had limited his role to that of an administrator and left all oversight of the thousands of criminal cases that flow through his office each year to his first assistant, Kathleen Martin. That did not stop Williams from continuing to collect his $175,572-a-year salary  or his critics from trying to boot him from his post anyway. But his removal did not come until June 29, when he pleaded guilty. (READ MORE: What's next for Philly's District Attorney's Office? | Lawyer: Seth Williams plans to stay in office despite law license suspension | Lynne Abraham sues to have DA Seth Williams removed from office | Judge tosses Lynne Abraham's suit to boot DA Seth Williams from office)

What did the government case look like? Prosecutors presented a series of damaging text messages that Williams had sent to his benefactors seeking their financial largesse. In one, he described himself as "merely a thankful beggar." In a pretrial memorandum, government lawyers broke Williams' alleged wrongdoing into five separate schemes:

What did the defense say? Williams' lawyer called the government's case "laughable and unprosecutable" and accused prosecutors of attempting to turn violations of city and state ethics laws for which Williams already paid into federal crimes. He argued that the government's accusations of campaign expenditures that have drawn federal scrutiny were perfectly legal under Pennsylvania's lax campaign finance laws. The defense had said it would take less than a week to present its side, but Williams pleaded guilty before the prosecution even finished. (READ MORE: Lawyer blasts case against DA Seth Williams)

Who testified at trial? Aside from Ali and Weiss, the two men accused of paying bribes to Williams, also testifying was Patricia Tobin, assistant general manager of the Union League. The government's witness list contained a number of notable names who weren't called to testify because Williams pleaded guilty before prosecutors were finished with their case. They included Williams' ex-girlfriend Stacey Cummings, who pleaded guilty last year to slashing the tires on two city-owned vehicles parked outside his house; Williams' predecessor, ex-District Attorney Lynne Abraham; First Assistant District Attorney Kathleen Martin; and Ed McCann, who previously held Martin's role before resigning last year.

What did the jury look like? A jury of 10 women and two men, and four alternates, all women, was impaneled June 19. Just two of the main jurors were African American, but the panel  with jurors from as far away as Lancaster, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties  brought diverse life experiences to the mix. One woman said she worked as a chocolate taster at the Hershey plant. Another woman, a former retail jeweler, described once chasing down and beating a robber before setting him free. The panel included a juvenile probation officer, a businessman from Chester County, and a Philadelphia cardiac nurse. (READ MORE: Jury selected, Philly DA Seth Williams' federal corruption trial opens Tuesday)

Who were the lawyers? The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey officially handled the case after the Philadelphia office recused itself for potential conflicts of interest due to the number of cases in which it collaborated closely with Williams' office and the number of federal prosecutors there who previously worked either for or with Williams at the District Attorney's Office. Still, two members of the prosecution team, Robert A. Zauzmer and Vineet Gauri, were based in the Philadelphia U.S. Attorney's Office. They were joined by co-counsel Eric Moran and lead FBI case agent Vicki Humphreys. Zauzmer and Humphreys previously led the corruption investigation that convicted state Sen. Vincent J. Fumo in 2009. Williams' lawyer, Thomas R. Burke, met his client when they worked side-by-side in the District Attorney's Office under Abraham in the 1990s. Although he primarily has defended state-level criminal cases, he signed on to represent his former colleague after two earlier lawyers left the case over concerns about Williams' ability to pay their legal bills.

Who was the judge? U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond has had a 12-year career on the federal bench in which he has presided over several high-profile cases. Recently, that list has included a Green Party-backed legal fight for a recount of Pennsylvania's 2016 presidential votes and hundreds of civil cases stemming from the arrest of six Philadelphia narcotics officers accused and later acquitted of planting evidence and shaking down drug dealers. Diamond, a George W. Bush appointee, worked in the District Attorney's Office in the late 1970s and early 1980s and served as the treasurer and lawyer for former U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter's failed 1996 presidential campaign.

Keep up with developments in Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams' case with our day-by-day recaps and our explainer on everything you need to know about the case.
Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams abandoned his bid for a third term in office earlier this year. But on June 19, he began the most important campaign of his life: his defense against federal corruption charges that threaten to send him to prison for up to 20 years. On Thursday, midway through his trial, Williams accepted a plea deal and was sent to jail to await sentencing.

Here's a recap of the latest developments:

Day 8, June 29: In a surprise move, Seth Williams pleaded guilty to one count in a mid-trial plea deal. The district attorney will resign as the city's top prosecutor under the terms of the agreement. He pleaded guilty to one count related to accepting a bribe from Bucks County businessman Mohammad Ali. The 28 remaining counts against Williams were dismissed, but he "admits that he committed all of the conduct in those 29 counts," Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Zauzmer said. (READ MORE: Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams pleads guilty in his federal corruption trial | What's next for Philly's District Attorney's Office?)

Day 7, June 28: Williams' lawyer sought to justify the thousands of dollars of campaign cash the Philadelphia district attorney paid for membership dues and spa services at a pricey Center City gym by suggesting that "trimming down" and "getting in shape" made him more electable. But that debate over the potential of portly politicians was hardly the most unusual thing to happen as prosecutors shifted focus to another key aspect in their case  Williams' spending of political donations at exclusive clubs across the city. The government alleged it was a crime but the defense argued that places like the Sporting Club at the Bellevue and the tony Union League gave the district opportunities to network with the city's power brokers. Witnesses included the Sporting Club's general manager, the former director of Williams' campaign fund, and the top enforcement lawyer for the city's Board of Ethics. (READ MORE: Philly DA's defense of gym dues: 'Trimming down' helped make him electable)

Day 6, June 27: Jurors in Seth Williams' bribery and corruption trial were offered two lenses through which to view the cash-strapped district attorney and his relationship to one of the wealthy businessmen who prosecutors say bankrolled his luxurious life. Government questioning of Michael Weiss  co-owner of the iconic Center City gay bar Woody's  painted Williams as a shameless moocher whose requests for help paying for family vacations and utility bills became so frequent at one point that Weiss considered cutting him off. But as soon as the defense began its examination, Weiss spoke of Williams as one of his closest friends. The day's testimony also included appearances from the administrator of the nursing home where Williams' mother lived, Williams' mechanic and a lawyer in Williams' office who told jurors that despite whatever promises the district attorney may have made to another benefactor, he never asked about a criminal case in which he had promised to intervene. (READ MORE: Woody's owner: 'I don't believe I bribed anyone')

Day 5, June 26: Woody's owner Michael Weiss paid for Seth Williams' airfare for vacations in Key West, Fla., San Diego and Las Vegas. He once lent him $1,300. And when the Philadelphia district attorney's girlfriend needed a car, Weiss gave her his old Jaguar convertible. But unlike the first of the district attorney's patrons to take the witness stand  Bucks County businessman Mohammad N. Ali, who testified last week that he cozied up to Williams in anticipation of help he might one day need  Weiss' reluctance to appear in court was palpable. When asked by prosecutors whether his generosity was intended to extract legal help from the district attorney, Weiss conceded: "In part." (READ MORE: Asked whether he bribed Williams, owner of iconic gay bar answers with a shrug)

Earlier in the day, Deputy Commissioner Joseph Sullivan, the Philadelphia Police Department's top homeland security official, testified that he felt uncomfortable when Williams requested that they meet for a Union League lunch with Ali, someone federal law enforcement agents had warned them both to avoid. (READ MORE: Police official: Union League lunch with Williams, benefactor "didn't feel right")

Day 4, June 23: In a day of pointed cross-examination from the defense, Bucks County businessman Mohammad N. Ali wrestled with walking a line between describing his relationship with Seth Williams as a true friendship and one in which he showered the district attorney with gifts in hopes of soliciting legal favors. Through his questioning, defense lawyer Thomas R. Burke tried to paint Ali as a craven opportunist who used Williams for help with his legal woes and was using him once again as he testified  to avoid a significant prison term stemming from his own conviction last month for bribery and tax evasion. Also testifying were the county detective in charge of the District Attorney's Office's drug intervention unit, who said Williams appropriated government vehicles for personal use, and the human resources manager for the office, who discussed Williams' ethics forms, on which he was required to report the gifts he received from Ali and others. (READ MORE: Line between favors, friendship blurs at Philly DA Seth Williams' trial)

Day 3, June 22: A Bucks County businessman at the center of the case testified Thursday that he showered the city's top prosecutor with pricey gifts, all-expenses-paid travel, and dinner at exclusive restaurants because he "wanted to get close to the DA." And though the relationship outlined by Mohammad N. Ali during four hours on the witness stand sounded at times like a genuine friendship built over years of double dates and a 2012 couples' trip to a swanky Dominican resort, when asked directly by prosecutors what he got out of cozying up to the district attorney, Ali answered in purely transactional terms. "It's good to know someone in power," he told jurors. "If you ever need anything, it's good to have someone make a phone call." (READ MORE: Benefactor testifies 'it's good to know someone in power' at Philly DA Seth Williams' trial)

Day 2, June 21: Prosecutors cut to the heart of one of the most shocking allegations against the cash-strapped district attorney  that Williams diverted his portions of his mother's savings, pension payments, and Social Security income to cover his mounting debts even as the nursing home where she was living was clamoring for any money to cover the costs of her care. A Justice Department auditor testified about her exhaustive study the bank account of Williams' mother, Imelda, and suggested that the district attorney was routinely spending her money on his mortgage payments, utility bills and shopping trips to Juicy Couture. Williams' lawyer maintains that he was unaware of his financial obligation to his mother's nursing home. Other witnesses included staff at the St. Francis Country House geriatric facility; Patricia Tobin, the assistant general manager at the tony Union League and Sylvia Randolph, wife of an old family friend who gave Williams a $10,000 check to pay for his mother's care which was later spent on the district attorney's mortgage and other bills. (READ MORE: At Williams' trial, prosecutors zero in on alleged theft from his mother)

Day 1, June 20: In opening statements, prosecution and defense lawyers gave the jury starkly different accounts of Philadelphia's top law enforcement official. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vineet Gauri portrayed Williams, 50, almost as a man so driven by a lifestyle exceeding his paycheck that he willingly solicited and accepted bribes and defrauded his election committee, the federal and city governments, and his mother to maintain it. Williams' lawyer, Thomas Burke, conceded that his client had accepted gifts and trips, used his campaign committee's money for memberships to a gym and a tony club, and frequently relied on a fleet of government vehicles, but he maintained that none of it was illegal. Later, Kathleen DeFriece, director of accounts receivable for a nursing home run by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the government's first witness, testified about what she described as a frustrating, 10-month campaign to get Seth Williams to respond to the nursing home's need to have his mother's pension and Social Security benefits deposited directly with the geriatric facility to cover her care, room, and board. Prosecutors contend Williams misspent thousands intended to pay for his mother's care to cover the cost of his mortgage and other bills. (READ MORE: Nursing home official: DA Seth Williams misused funds meant for his mother's care)

Jury selection, June 19: U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond, prosecutors and defense lawyers culled a panel of 137 prospects from nine Southeastern Pennsylvania counties to create a main jury panel of 10 women and two men, and four alternates, all women, for a trial predicted to last from three to four weeks at the federal courthouse at Sixth and Market Streets. Just two of the main jurors are African American. But the panel  with jurors from as far away as Lancaster, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties  brings diverse life experiences to the mix. One woman said she worked as a chocolate taster at the Hershey plant. Another, a former retail jeweler, described once chasing down and beating a robber before setting him free. The panel includes a juvenile probation officer, a businessman from Chester County and a Philadelphia cardiac nurse. (READ MORE: Jury selected, Philly DA Seth Williams' federal corruption trial opens Tuesday)

The set-up: Williams' federal trial caps off what has been a tough year for the 50-year-old Williams. He dropped his candidacy for a third term. His law license has been suspended by agreement with the state Supreme Court, and he has ceded daily operation of the city prosecutor's office to his first assistant, Kathleen Martin. His Overbrook home is on the market. (READ MORE: His freedom at stake, DA Seth Williams' federal corruption trial starts Monday)

The indictment, March 21: Federal prosecutors unveiled a sweeping bribery, extortion and honest services fraud indictment against Williams accusing the city's cash-strapped top prosecutor of repeatedly selling his influence and offering to intervene in a case on behalf of one wealthy benefactor. In exchange, they said, Williams accepted luxury trips to foreign locales, a used Jaguar convertible, and other gifts including a $205 Louis Vuitton necktie and a Burberry watch. When that was not enough to cover the costs of his lush life, Williams allegedly resorted to stealing from his own mother, draining more than $20,000 of Social Security and pension income intended to pay for her nursing home to cover his mortgage and electricity bills. (READ MORE: D.A. Seth Williams indicted on corruption, bribery-related charges)

Keep up with developments in Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams' case with our day-by-day recaps and our explainer on everything you need to know about the case.
Steelworks Strength Systems at Girard Avenue and 25th Street. A fight started outside the gym between neighbors and gym goers last month. .(MARGO REED / Staff Photographer ) Read more

The gym at 25th Street and Girard Avenue in Brewerytown props open its doors on hot days to cool down members exercising inside. The open doors piqued the curiosity of some kids last month, who cut through the gym while a class was going on.

What happened next depends on whom you talk to, but people in this rapidly changing neighborhood agree that it didn't have to go so far, with bats drawn and a 14-year-old taken away by ambulance in handcuffs.

A skirmish between gym members and nearby residents broke out outside the gym. Kobie Xavier, a trainer at the gym, said he was hit on the head with a folding chair as he tried to defuse the incident.

"It was a horrible situation, and it stems from the fact that we don't know each other," Xavier said. "There were two groups who did not understand each other. We didn't do the groundwork beforehand to be able to talk to one another, and a stressful situation came up, and we were just incapable of communicating."

Brewerytown is one of the fastest-changing neighborhoods in the city, and over the last five years the median home price there has jumped from $59,000 to $105,000.

Businesses sprouting up along Girard, such as Steelworks Strength Systems, have become symbols of gentrifying. A membership costs upward of $200 a month, and the gym caters mostly to newer residents. It's on a strip with a yoga studio, a bar specializing in craft beers, and a cat cafe.

Such redevelopment has at times widened the divide between newer and longtime residents, who also can be split along other lines: poor and wealthy, black and white.

Xavier said he was leading a workout class on May 11 when 14-year-old Naji Tribble and several other boys cut through the gym. Xavier said he was frustrated and cursed at the boys to get out. The boys started throwing rocks at gym members running up and down North College Avenue as part of a outdoor workout. Others from the neighborhood showed up, some with bats, Xavier said.

A scuffle ensued, Xavier said, which is when he was hit with the chair. Xavier said he saw Tribble throw a punch at a woman whose husband, an off-duty police officer, threw the boy to the ground. Tribble was arrested and charged with simple assault, said Kevin Mincey, the family's attorney.

Mincey said the family was considering a lawsuit. A police internal affairs investigation has been launched into the actions of the officer, Kevin Furman.

On the 1200 block of North Taylor Street, a few hundred yards from the gym, Alfred Tribble, Naji's father, declined to talk about the incident except to say that his son was recovering at home from a fractured skull. Before a reporter left, he offered something about his neighborhood's new landscape.

"It shouldn't be where businesses in this area don't embrace the community," Tribble said. "My son can go in any store that's been on Girard Avenue  not the new ones, the new bars that you come and get drunk at  but any of the stores on Girard that have been there over 20 years and be fine. But over there, we're not welcome there."

Brian Terpak, the gym's owner, was not around for the melee. He worries about his gym being villainized. In the days following a Philadelphia Magazine article that first reported on the incident, some people stopped and took photos outside. Terpak, a former history teacher in the Philadelphia School District, lives in the neighborhood and said the gym raises money for local after-school and summer programs.

"My next step is to move forward with openness and peace, and to figure out a proper dialogue," Terpak said. "I don't want anyone to feel like we're taking anything from anyone. I feel there's a fear that something is being taken."

Edward Butts, 52, has lived on 25th Street, about three blocks from the gym, since he was 10.

His section of the neighborhood is one with fewer new homes, a nearby public-housing complex, and some drug activity, neighbors say. The residents stick together, and Butts shakes his head when asked about the gym.

"I'll smile and say hello walking by, and they just look at me like, 'Why's he doing that?' I do think they're prejudiced," Butts said. Butts said his niece, who is black, was told to apply online for membership in the gym, while a white neighbor was able to sign up in person.

Terpak sighs when asked if this happened. All are welcome at the gym, he says, and he frequently directs people to apply online if he's working with clients when they come by.

It's an example of how perceptions about places can grow, he said.

West Girard Avenue was a busy retail district until the crack cocaine epidemic in the 1980s, leaving it as the dividing line between Fairmount and Brewerytown.

The change has been dramatic.

Since 31-year-old Kellan White moved to Brewerytown with his wife in 2016, a spin studio has replaced a hair salon, a hat store has become a pizza place, and the couple have had their choice of breweries and restaurants serving $9 craft beers and $14 hamburgers.

"The stores that were in Brewerytown 10 years ago are leaving, and I think there's something to be said about, yeah, everyone gets along because not everyone is invited to the party," White said.

David Waxman, a founder of MM Partners, a primary developer in the neighborhood since 2001, said his company had always sought a mix of lower- and higher-end retail options.

"We look to bring retail business that does not want to be trendy but service-oriented, that old-time and new-time residents can go to," Waxman said.

MM Partners leased space to Dollar Tree, which recently opened a store just up the street from the gym. Coming soon are a restaurant at 28th and Girard and a dog day-care business. At a Thursday night civic association meeting, 10 developers presented projects, most for housing developments.

Waxman said he also looks for businesses that will be good neighbors. Many of them find ways of engaging with the community, he said.

The local bicycle shop repairs children's bikes free, and a sign on the window of the yoga studio reads: "Our Doors Are Open to All People, All Races and Ethnicities, All Gender Identities, All Sexual Preferences, All Political Views, All Economic Statusesthe only thing we don't tolerate is intolerance!"

Darnetta Arce, executive director of the Brewerytown-Sharswood Civic Association, said she wants to ask businesses about offering discounts to neighbors  a 10 percent off coupon or a free pizza, "maybe a free workout day," she said.

"It's one way to connect the community and businesses," she said. "Sometimes you don't know what services you have in your own community or what a place even is."

Take the brewery Crime & Punishment, whose name confused several older residents at first, Arce said.

Arce stressed that the brawl outside of the gym was not the norm. People mostly get along. "After it happened, I noticed they closed the big glass door," Arce said of the gym. "I saw today the doors were open again."
Harold G. Schaeffer reached the pinnacle of his profession, working his way up to becoming chairman of the company that developed and managed the King of Prussia Mall and other regional shopping centers. But his greatest joy, relatives said, came from spending time with family and exploring the wonders of life.

"Toward the end of his life he would talk to me about family," said James, one of Mr. Schaeffer's three sons. "He said the thing that gave him the most joy was family. Despite all of his accomplishments, the family made him most proud."

"He could have lived a thousand years and would have woken up with new passions," said another son, Anthony. "He had an endless appreciation of beauty and the gift of life, and he was a guy with a million hobbies. He was brilliant, and to his last day was excited about new horizons, about learning, sailing, photography. He was a lifelong learner."

Mr. Schaeffer, 89, of Rittenhouse Square, died of heart failure Saturday morning, June 17, at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in University City.

Mr. Schaeffer was born Sept. 16, 1927, in Philadelphia to Herman and Rose Schaeffer and was raised in Mount Airy. His father owned a furniture store on Market Street. He graduated from Central High School in 1945 and earned a business degree from Temple University in 1950.

He served in the Navy Reserve and then in the Army during the Korean War. He married Adele Kaplan in 1954.

Mr. Schaeffer went to work for Philadelphia's M.A. Kravitz Co. in 1957, selecting sites and attracting anchor stores for its shopping centers. He took over leadership of the company in the 1960s with his partner, Arthur L. Powell, renamed it Kravco, moved its headquarters to King of Prussia, and guided it to become one of the nation's leading shopping mall development and management companies.

In addition to developing and managing the King of Prussia Mall, Mr. Schaeffer's company built and managed the Oxford Valley Mall in Middletown Township, Bucks County, Montgomery Mall near North Wales, Quaker Bridge Mall near Princeton, Lehigh Valley Mall in the Allentown area, and malls in other states including Texas and Maine, his sons said.

Success in the business world allowed Mr. Schaeffer to contribute his time and money to charitable causes as a consultant, including to the Ford Foundation and the Opportunities Industrialization Center founded by the Rev. Leon Sullivan. He and his wife were longtime philanthropists of the University of Pennsylvania, Penn Medicine, the Wistar Institute, the Academy of Music, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and scholarship programs at many schools, including Temple and Gwynedd Mercy University.

Mr. Schaeffer was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt, sail, and fly-fish. He was known for a sense of humor that brought joy to family and friends, his sons said.

"He lived a very full, long, and generally wonderful life," Anthony Schaeffer said.

In addition to his wife of 63 years and his sons, Mr. Schaeffer is survived by son Robert; a brother; and five grandchildren.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 20, at Joseph Levine & Sons, 4737 Street Road, Trevose. Burial will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park.

Contributions may be made to the Wistar Institute at www.wistar.org.
Police are investigating an overnight shooting that left a man dead in West Philadelphia.

The shooting happened around 3 a.m. Monday on the unit block of North Yewdall Street, Philadelphia police said.

The victim, who was shot in his face and chest, was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:11 a.m. The victim's name was not immediately released.

No information about the motive or any suspects was available.
Testimony begins Tuesday in the federal corruption trial of Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams, elected as a reformer, and now charged with accepting bribes and gifts and defrauding the government and his mother's nursing home in what prosecutors say was his way of maintaining a lifestyle that exceeded his paycheck.

U.S. District Judge Paul S. Diamond spent all day Monday with prosecution and defense lawyers culling a panel of 137 prospects from nine Southeastern Pennsylvania counties to create a main jury panel of 10 women and two men, and four alternates, all women, for a trial predicted to last from three to four weeks at the federal courthouse at Sixth and Market Streets.

Diamond had told the lawyers he thought they could select the jury in one day for the trial of Williams. By midday, he was having his doubts, as 104 members of the panel said being selected would pose a severe personal burden. Ninety-nine said they had heard about or read news accounts of the case.

Yet by 4:45 p.m., the judge had a panel in front of him. Just two of the main jurors are African American  Williams has proudly described himself on his office's website as the city's first African American district attorney. But the panel  with jurors from as far away as Lancaster, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties  brings diverse life experiences to the mix.

One woman said she worked as a chocolate taster at the Hershey plant. Another woman, a former retail jeweler, told how she once chased down and beat a robber before setting him free. The panel includes a juvenile probation officer, a businessman from Chester County, and a Philadelphia cardiac nurse.

Diamond gave the 16 jurors instructions about avoiding any news or social media coverage of the case, and told them to report to court at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday for the start of the trial.

After some initial legal instructions from the judge, the jury will hear opening arguments from the prosecution and defense lawyers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vineet Gauri, part of a team that includes federal prosecutors Robert A. Zauzmer and Eric Moran, will make the government's opening statement. Defense attorney Thomas F. Burke, supported Monday by law partner Trevan Borum, will make the defense opening to the jury.

Then the first prosecution witness will take the stand.

Prosecutors allege that Williams, 50, nearing the end of his second four-year term, was so indebted that he ignored his oath of office and professional ethics and accepted bribes and gifts, and defrauded the government and his own mother to maintain his lifestyle.

The defense maintains that Williams' wide circle of friends willingly lent him money and paid for vacations and other personal expenses. Williams' use of government vehicles and money earmarked for his mother's nursing home bills were well within the law, the defense says.

In their trial memorandum, prosecutors broke down Williams' alleged crimes into five schemes:

Accepting bribes from Feasterville businessman Mohammad Ali, 40, who prosecutors say gave thousands of dollars' worth of gifts to Williams between 2010 and 2015. Although Ali had said he had a "personal relationship" with the prosecutor, he also has admitted asking Williams to help him bypass secondary security screening at Philadelphia International Airport. He also asked Williams to intervene in a drug case against a disc jockey at a Center City nightclub Ali patronized.
These wetlands just outside of Stone Harbor, N.J. absorb flood waters and filter out pollutants. Read more

Gov. Christie will hand his successor a creeping disaster if he succeeds in imposing new development rules that would destroy wetlands, the best natural protection against flooding.

Each acre of wetlands soaks up a million gallons of water. They also filter out pollutants that endanger the water supply. But wetlands will be endangered if Christie reduces the responsibility of developers for wetland restoration after they build strip malls, condos, and pipelines. Instead of inspections to confirm restoration work, there would only be the developer's word.

Currently, developers must restore two acres for every one acre they destroy because restoration typically only works half the time. The new rules obligate developers to restore just one acre for every acre they destroy. The Sierra Club's Jeff Tittel says that would result in a net loss of wetlands acreage.

Equally shortsighted is a provision releasing developers from restoring areas that are near other wetlands destroyed by development. Theoretically, developers might destroy wetlands in Gloucester County but only restore them in adjacent Camden County.

Dismantling existing rules will cause the gradual depletion of wetlands. Over time, as flooding increases, the loss of wetlands will weaken the region's defenses against future flooding.

Christie's stated reason for changing the rules is to streamline the permitting process for developers. But that worthy goal would be undercut by the damage caused by the new regulations.

Despite what some people may think, flood protection doesn't just benefit millionaires with oceanfront homes. Anyone who lives near a river, creek, or back bay is also at risk of being flooded.

Even with its problems, New Jersey is ahead of most states, including Pennsylvania, in protecting residents and property from flooding. Its 1988 Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act is so strong that the federal government allows New Jersey to act on its behalf in enforcing wetlands rules.

That makes Christie's move to weaken flood protections even worse. It damages the state's stellar reputation as an environmental leader.

Pennsylvania is sliding the wrong way too. A March analysis by the Pew Trusts says as flooding increases, economic damage in the state (now about $91.6 million a year) will increase.

People in New Jersey who've mopped up a basement or replaced an exhausted sump pump know the problems flooding causes. They have until June 30 to make public comments that could stop Christie's rule changes before he leaves office. If the rules are enacted, expect a gold rush for development permits before a new governor is seated.

Both major party's gubernatorial candidates seem interested in protecting the environment, but who can say if they would be persuaded by development interests once they are in office.

Environmentalists have been gathering ammunition for a court challenge of the rules changes, but it would be quicker if the legislature would intervene. It should. Even those lawmakers who seem to cower before Christie should understand that once he's gone in January they will be left to face flooded-out constituents.
Slots have generated lots of revenue for Pennsylvania, but lawmakers seem to think gambling is a panacea for fiscal woes. Read more

Gambling is the opioid of Harrisburg lawmakers. It comes with all the hallmarks of addiction: compulsive need, increasing tolerance, and the drive to continue to consume despite negative consequences.

Lawmakers got their first real taste when they legalized gaming in 2004 and began opening slots parlors around the state. When that wasn't enough, they added table games. Then they began talking about adding video-game terminals in bars, clubs and other outlets, which they recently began pushing to help close a massive budget hole.

It is true that gambling has been a great success in the state: Slots alone have generated $22 billion in revenue, after payouts on wagers are paid. Table games have generated $4 billion. These rewards go to local municipalities who host casinos, give tax reductions to taxpayers, and help prop up the state's horse-racing industry.

Of course, there's another way of seeing that $26 billion: The money gamblers lost to casinos in the past 11 years. Every year, $2 billion flies out of the pockets of Pennsylvanians and visitors from elsewhere.

Now lawmakers want to unleash another $100 million a year from people's pockets with video-gaming terminals to help deal with a $3 billion deficit.

(If gambling were the answer to filling budget holes, why do the state budget woes get bigger every year? ) Lawmakers are also looking at new ways to slice the pie of money that comes in; a change in what casinos are taxed will set a new standard of $10 million a year per casino earmarked for those municipalities that host casinos. Philadelphia's share is $7 million, with $5 million going to schools. State Sen. Larry Farnese and others want to divert some of the new amount that would go to Philadelphia to the Department of Commerce and Economic Development, a state agency that hands out grants, over which the city has no control.

So the state has mandated gambling, mandated exactly where casinos were going, and now want to control some of the money that goes to the municipalities that host the casinos.

The streets, and services, and citizens of the city are the ones accommodating the state-mandated casino. And since the state has systematically reduced its support of the schools, it seems logical that this extra money should go to the schools, not back to the state.

Meanwhile, while lawmakers tinker with the gaming law, we wish they would finally take a long look at the share that goes to the faltering horse race industry. Propping up this industry was the original intent behind the gaming law, and since gaming was legalized, the horse race industry has received over $1 billion. Yes, ONE BILLION dollars.

And yet, despite this generous infusion of cash, the industry continues to decline. Why are we propping up one special-interest group instead of the common good? Especially since the budget woes of the state are likely to be harming actual, real people, not animals.

Horse breeders and others in the horse-racing industry cry doomsday tears every time such a suggestion gets made. But let's be honest: We have one form of gambling  casinos  that essentially provides the winnings to fuel another form of gambling  horse racing. And lawmakers who continue to feed that cycle of addiction.
Master Sgt. William Trampas Bishop was struck and killed on duty Saturday night. (Photo: Florida Highway Patrol)

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that led to the death of one of its own Saturday evening.

According to the agency, Master Sgt. William T. Bishop, 52, was standing outside his patrol car around 6:36 p.m. June 17 on I-75 in Alachua County. Bishop was assisting a motorist from Miami who had been involved in a previous crash, reports Tampa Patch.

As Bishop was outside his patrol car, troopers say John C. Sams, 67, of Lady Lake and Michael T. Korta, 46, of Tampa were heading southbound on Interstate 75. For reasons that have not been explained, troopers say Korta and Sams' vehicles collided. Bishop was hit during the secondary collision.

Bishop was taken to Shands Hospital, but was pronounced dead, the patrol said. He is survived by his wife and son, reports ODMP.org.
Photo: Texas Gov. Abbot's Office

Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott recently gave his approval to the Police Protection Act, which ups the penalties for crimes against law enforcement officers in the state, reports guns.com.

The measure, HB 2908, was proposed by Rep. Todd Hunter, R-Corpus Christi, and passed the legislature with only one lawmaker, Rep. Jarvis Johnson, a Houston-area Democrat, voting against the bill. Abbott first backed the proposal to expand hate crime protections to law enforcement last July in the days immediately after an attack on Dallas police officers that left five dead left five dead.

"The men and women in uniform risk their lives every day to protect the public, and it is time we show them the State of Texas has their back," said Abbott at the time. "Texas will no longer tolerate disrespect for those who serve, and it must be made clear to anyone targeting our law enforcement officials that their actions will be met with severe justice."

The new law adds police and judges to those threatened or targeted because of their perceived race, color, disability, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, or sexual preference. As such, it would increase penalties for those who assault a law enforcement officer or jurist to as much as 20 years in prison. Attacks that result in severe injury could result to life in prison on conviction.

The law takes effect Sept. 1.
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Justin Trudeau did something that Donald Trump has not done. The Prime Minister of Canada has condemned the terrorist attack against Muslims in London.

Canadian PN Justin Trudeau tweeted:

We strongly condemn the Finsbury Park terror attack. In these difficult weeks for London & the UK, know youll always have Canadas support.  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 19, 2017

Trumps response to the terror attack that left one dead and 11 injured has been to say nothing. This is an ongoing pattern with the President. When the violence is committed by a Muslim extremist, Trump takes to Twitter immediately to try to politically profit off of the attack. If the violence is directed at Muslims as was the case recently in London and Virgina, Trump ignores the attacks and stays silent.

This White Houses silence on violence against people of the Muslim faith is a un-American embarrassment. Despite what the Fox News addicted President wants to believe, not all Muslims are terrorists.

Canada is now leading the world in condemning all forms of terror as the United States is being left behind due to the bigotry of Trump.

Trump isnt making America great again. He is leading the country back to a disgusting old era that Americans have spent decades trying to leave behind.
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Donald Trump gave Karen Handel such a terrible endorsement that he didnt leave enough room in his tweet to include her full name. The babbling president whined about Democrats, lied about Obamacare, then had no room to endorse Handel in the Georgia special House election.

Trump tweeted:

The Dems want to stop tax cuts, good healthcare and Border Security.Their ObamaCare is dead with 100% increases in P's. Vote now for Karen H  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 19, 2017

As you can see, Trumps priorities are blaming Democrats for his lack of accomplishments, lying about Obamacare, and oh, yeah vote for somebody named Karen H, whoever that is. There was no mention of the election itself, where the election is, who Karen H is, or what Karen H is running for.

In the history of terrible endorsements, Trumps endorsement of Karen Handel has to be one of the worst. The President rambled so much that he couldnt fit her whole name into the tweet, which speaks volumes about Trumps lack of discipline and inability to organize his thoughts. There is also a not so subtle message that Karen Handel might lose, so Trump doesnt want to get too close, but mostly this is an example of Trumps hamster brain on meth unable to deliver full thoughts or any sort of clear message.

Remember to vote for Karen H last name unknown for an office in some place not specified in an election that is being held sometime in the present or future.

It is plain as day that without the Russians, incoherent Trump couldnt get elected dogcatcher.
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Oh, wait. Theres one more previously unreported meeting during the height of Russian interference in the election between President Trumps campaign chair Paul Manafort and a suspected Russian spy/Ukrainian businessman.

The businessman in question once served in the Russian army, and they discussed, among other things, the presidential election, according to a statement the businessman issued, via Paul Manaforts lawyer, to The Washington Post.

Rosalind S. Helderman, Tom Hamburger and Rachel Weiner reported Monday morning that

this previously unreported meeting was one of two this Ukrainian businessman, who used to be in the Russian army and learned English at a school some experts consider a training ground for Russian spies, had with Paul Manafort in the U.S., during the five months he worked for Donald Trumps campaign.

Kilimnik first met with Manafort in early May 2016, about two weeks before the Trump adviser was elevated to campaign chairman.

The second dinner was in August about two weeks before Manafort resigned under pressure amid reports that he had received improper payments for his political work in Ukraine, allegations that he has denied.

They talked about many things from bill to current news, including the presidential campaign, according to The Post. This was further detailed in a later paragraph, Kilimnik said his meetings with Manafort were private visits that were in no way related to politics or the presidential campaign in the U.S. He said he did not meet with Trump or other campaign staff members. However, he said their contacts included discussions related to the perception of the U.S. presidential campaign in Ukraine.'

The Post noted a slightly different version of what Manafort and Kilimnik discussed, as told to Politico in March by Manafort spokesman Jason Maloni, who said that they discussed the hacking of the DNC emails.

Kenneth Vogel and David Stern reported in Politico, referring to Kilimnik as a Kiev-based operative with suggested ties to Russian intelligence, During their conversations last year, Manafort said he and Kilimnik also discussed an array of subjects related to the presidential campaign, including the hacking of the DNCs emails, though Manafort stressed that at the time of the conversations, neither he nor other Trump campaign officials knew that Russia was involved in the hacking.

Furthermore, from Politico, that Kilimnik suggested that he had played a role in gutting a proposed amendment to the Republican Party platform that would have staked out a more adversarial stance towards Russia, according to a Kiev operative.

According to the operatives who spoke to Politico for this article back in March, Manafort and Kilimnik remained in contact during the 2016 presidential race because Kilimnik was helping Manafort to collect on a previously undisclosed outstanding debt owed to his company, but Politico notes Manafort told Radio Free Europe he was briefing Manafort on Ukraine.

Thats many different versions of what was allegedly discussed in both meetings between Donald Trumps campaign manager and a businessman who has been suspected of being a Russian spy, and yet another previously undisclosed meeting.

Kilimnik has continued advising Opposition Bloc, which opposes Ukraines teetering pro-Western government. according to a July of 2016 Politico article.

Drip drip drip information that conflicts with previous statements while opening the door to even more questions is not the best approach when a person is in legal trouble that involves headlines. The idea is to get it out there at once and hope the news cycle forgets about you. Instead, the Trump team is so secretive that they continue to make headlines for questionable contacts with Russians, Russian agents, and Russian interests that they havent disclosed.

The not disclosing looks bad, especially since its a rather unforgettably relentless theme of team Trump.

Manafort is but one piece in a growing tornado of Russian ties around President Trump, including Flynn, Stone, Page, and Kushner. Manafort worked on the campaign team with all of these concerning issues. The transition team then included already disgraced Mike Flynn, who also misled the public about his Russian contacts, and was brought into the White House as Trumps National Security Advisor and then fired.

So its not one Russian connection that might be explained away; its a Russian tornado circling around the President and picking up speed.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Rain showers in the morning then becoming windy with thundershowers in the afternoon. High 76F. Winds SSW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 60%. Higher wind gusts possible..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 64F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.
Grant Wachter of Grant Wachter Piano Services, 105 21st St. SE, Rochester

(507) 261-7922 / grantwachter@gmail.com

What is your title?

Owner/sole member/piano technician. Some refer to me as multi-hat wearing friend. A few little kids call me Mr. Grant for short.

Describe your business.

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My business is serving people with piano needs. Most of my business consists of tuning pianos. I also do repair and complete restoration. I install and maintain humidity control units on pianos. I also install and maintain digital player systems. There are many different aspects of the piano world. This leads me to do a lot of consulting and working with people to find the best solution for them. I also have pianos for sale that I've either refurbished or restored.

What drove you to launch your own business?

My business launched me. I believe that I was walking circles in the bottom of a cannon when it spontaneously went off. Hard work, faith and passion then sustained my flight. Actually, it was the loss of Larry Petit, who was a close friend, fellow musician, mentor and previous employer. Larry and I had a very close connection. He laid out his dream and vision for the piano industry, and I simply filled the gaps. He believed in something, and so did I. Before Larry passed, I had asked him what I was supposed to do to continue on. He simply told me, "I love you man, just take it and run with it."

Well, I ran, and it's still running.

How many hours do you typically work in a week?

I work about 60 hours a week. Much of my time goes into study, planning projects and scheduling.

How many employees do you have?

Currently, I'm my only worker.

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When did you start your business?

I started my business on Nov. 15, 2013. The very next day after Petit Music closed. Besides my lack of preparation, it was almost seamless.

If you left another job to start this business, what was it?

My change of careers was a strange transition. I was a concrete worker for 11 years prior. A couple of knee surgeries and compounding physical ailments led me back to school. I got a degree in music technology. Before I graduated, I was doing an internship at Pachyderm Studio to be an audio engineer while I did freelance cement finishing for a few different construction companies. I was also playing in a country/rock cover band, which is how I met Larry Petit. I started out by helping him move pianos. In short, I went from concrete to pianos.

Do you work elsewhere in addition to the time you put in at your business?

I set up and tear down audio equipment for the Smokin' Coyotes. In compensation for doing all that work, they let me play guitar and sing in the band.

What sacrifices did you make to launch this business?

Sleep: I get four to six hours deep sleep and the rest of my day is strung together by a series of naps. Relationships: My close and personal friends get less of me.

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What is the best thing about owning a business?

It's like a "choose your own adventure" book. Every piano and every situation is different. I get to meet, help and serve others. I will never know all there is to know about pianos. I will spend the rest of my life trying though. This promotes constant growth and development to my inner light. That light is then shared with others while I do what I love.

What is the hardest thing about owning a business?

In service, trying to make everyone happy all the time. Also knowing how much work to take on, or how much I can handle. These things are getting better though and will resolve with time and experience.

What is your hope for your business in the next year?

Continual growth. Maybe finding someone or interesting somebody in learning piano technologies.

What inspires you to keep doing it?

Internal passion. Finding answers to piano riddles. Teaching and leaving a mark on this planet that inspires greater good. Living an infectious way of life that makes reason to live.
At 81, Alan Alda is still best known as the star of TV's "M*A*S*H."

But the artist mostly known as Hawkeye also has been fascinated, and frustrated, by science.

Alda, who hosted PBS' "Scientific American Frontiers" from 1993 to 2005, was frustrated that men and women of science were not able to get their points across  to the public, the media, the government. Turned out they had never been trained to do so.

So Alda set out to do something about it. What he learned is the focus of his latest book, "If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?"

Aided by his warm, conversational style, Alda's message shows that the lessons also apply to the rest of us  and at a time when we could really use it.

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In 2009, Alda founded the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University in New York. Combining academic research with theater training, the center has trained more than 7,000 scientists and doctors to communicate better.

A lot of it centers on an appreciation of the power of empathy. Sharing stories of acting and improv exercises  including some he conducted at Ten Chimneys in Genesee Depot, where he led a master class in 2013  Alda shows how making a human connection is "the bedrock of communicating."

Unlike many transformed experts, Alda isn't convinced he has all the answers. In one chapter, he offers three practical tips and then adds a fourth: Beware of relying on experts' tips vs. your own experiences.

"There's a stretch of road I've driven down many times where I used to ignore the speed limit sign. One afternoon, I got a speeding ticket and I never ignored the speed limit again," he wrote. "The sign was a tip. The ticket was the experience."

Such personal stories, Alda notes, can be a bridge from an abstract concept to understanding, because we're all wired to relate to them. Telling and listening to them brings both sides closer together.

In another of Alda's stories, he and his 6-year-old grandson discover an unusual tree. The boy asks him, "How did it get like that?" Thrilled with his curiosity, Alda jumps at the teaching moment to talk about evolution  for 45 minutes.

The next day, the grandson asked his cousin a different question. When she told him that sounded like a topic for grandpa, the boy replied, "I'm not making that mistake again."

In telling that story, Alda shows the value of finding common ground; he's not just an actor, he's a grandpa trying to engage with his grandson.

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By telling it, Alda reinforces a key point made earlier in "If I Understood You": "The more we establish familiarity with our audience  not speaking to them from left field or from on high  the better chance we have that they'll listen to what we have to say. And possibly even accept it."

In a time when it seems like they're more talking than listening, it's a hopeful lesson.
Rochester police are investigating a reported stabbing after a call early this morning from a local hospital emergency department.

The call came in at 2:13 a.m., reporting a 53-year-old man with a knife wound to the head.

The victim told officers that earlier in the night the suspect  a man in his early 20s who lives nearby  came to his home in the 700 block of Ninth Avenue Southeast.

The suspect asked for the victim, who was at work. The victim's girlfriend texted him to tell him about the visit, the report says, and the man left work to see what the issue was.

When he knocked on the door of his neighbor, the suspect "charged at him and struck him in the forehead" with what the victim believed was a kitchen knife, said Lt. Mike Sadauskis.

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The man went back home, then returned to work, the report says, before realizing the 1 1/2-inch cut needed medical attention.

The victim said he believes the suspect "thinks he's having an affair with (the neighbor's) girlfriend," Sadauskis said.

The man was gone when officers arrived; the investigation is ongoing.
Even with a funding increase from the Legislature, the Rochester schools budget includes about $2.3 million in cuts and eliminates the equivalent of 48 positions.

The school board will likely approve the $294 million budget next week. The district's director of finance, John Carlson, called it a "responsible and respectful" budget.

Uncertainty with how much money would come from the Legislature, as well as a $1.1 million reduction tied to the number of low-income students, led the district to make cuts and plan to leave some positions unfilled.

"Things were not looking good there for a while," Carlson said of the district's expectations for funding increases from the Legislature during a school board meeting two weeks ago.

So the district adjusted its expectations to a 1.5 percent funding increase. Confirmation of a 2 percent increase came last week, providing RPS with $573,000 more than budgeted, but they'll push ahead with planned cuts.

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"So there is a little bit of wiggle room in there right now, " Carlson said.

The schools plan to save that money to offset projected budget deficits, beginning in 2019, when district will have to dip into its budget reserve. But by 2021, it will be forced to make cuts.

This year, RPS dipped into its $23 million reserve, pulling $6.8 million to balance the $226 million general fund budget, according to the district's five-year general fund forecast. The district is required to maintain a reserve  essentially, its savings accounts  that is equal to 6 percent of the general fund budget.

The Rochester Education Association, the teachers union, wasn't thrilled that the extra money from the Legislature won't be used this year.

REA's former president, Tucker Quetone, whose term ended last week, called the move "a little upsetting" because the instructors weren't giving much of a heads up, and they played a role in supporting classroom teachers.

The district, which employs more than 2,500 people, is projecting about 17,800 students next year.
LAKE CITY  A Dodge County man was killed in a single-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon.

Todd Carl Zimmerman, 48, of Dodge Center was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Suburban eastbound on Wabasha County Road 15 about 2.5 miles west of U.S. Highway 63 at about 1: 30 p.m. when the vehicle left the roadway, ending up on its roof and striking a power pole, according to a report from the Minnesota State Patrol. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Wabasha County Sheriff's Office, Lake City Police Department and Lake City Fire and Ambulance also responded to the scene.
WABASHA  When Willard Drysdale finished speaking on Thursday, the 400-plus people at the Wabasha-Kellogg High School auditorium stood and cheered.

It was another emotional moment over the topic of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's draft dredge material management plan. The Corps plans to move and permanently store nearly 11 million cubic yards of silt and sand over the next 40 years to keep clear the 9-foot navigation channel from Lock & Dam No. 4 upriver to Lake Pepin.

As part of the Corps' plan, it would acquire 298 acres of Drysdale's farm north of Kellogg. That acreage would become the permanent placement site for more than 7 million cubic yards  roughly 15 feet deep  of sand and silt on those acres.

"There's been a Drysdale living on this property continuously since my grandparents arrived in 1939," Drysdale said. "You'll never find another 300-acre parcel like it to replace it."

Income needed

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The acreage, which the Drysdales rent to another farmer who plants row crops on the land, is a major portion of the family's income in addition to good, flat farmland. Drysdale is the third generation on the farm, and he plans to hand it over to his daughter, Chelsey, who has said she planned to continue running the family's dairy herd on the land. "We'll be unable to continue our current way of life without this income," he said.

Drysdale is one of several individuals who spoke Thursday during a public meeting hosted by the Corps. Some of those individuals, like the dozens of homeowners on River Drive and Dugan Drive in Wabasha near the on-shore loading site known as Southside Fitzgerald, would see the value of their homes drop if the plan is adopted in its current form. Others, like a pair of Wisconsin farmers, also are slated to lose land to permanent storage of dredge material. And some were just moved by the impact the plan would have on fellow Minnesotans.

Wabasha Mayor Rollin Hall spoke as a resident of River Drive, which is adjacent to the site from where the Corps would run as many as 20 loaded trucks per hour along a quiet, residential street as many as 33 days a year. Hall invited his neighbors who were present to stand up, and scores of people did.

"We all feel we'd be adversely affected if this plan is implemented," Hall said. "Make it more of a win-win plan than currently proposed."

Feeling the pressure

Minnesota Rep. Steve Drazkowski, R-Mazeppa, said he had spent some time with the Corps since he first heard about the plan, and he believes the Corps personnel are working hard to find the kinds of alternatives that the crowds  both Thursday in Wabasha and June 6 in Nelson, Wis.  have asked for.

Drazkowski thanked the Corps for meeting with him and other lawmakers or their representatives, adding that they discussed alternatives to the Corps confiscating land through eminent domain.

"Let's look at using government-owned land before taking land away from a fourth-generation farm family," Drazkowski said.

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One of the alternatives he discussed was finding a way to separate the frac sand  a valuable resource in the hydraulic fracturing industry of oil and gas production  from the rest of the dredge material. That idea, he said, was brought to him by the Corps.

"They're feeling pressure from the public to find something else," Drazkowski said.

Ideas brought forth Thursday included suggestions such as dredging the Chippewa River  the source of much of the silt and sand  transporting the dredge material down river to Winona where an open mine would have more than enough capacity for the 40-year plan, or creating recreational islands in Lake Pepin.

Call for delay

John Chapman, a retiree from Buffalo City, Wis., recommended a pilot program where the Corps would lease property such as the Drysdale acreage, strip the topsoil then, after 40 years of sand storage, replacing the topsoil. That, he said, would keep the farm in the family and keep it useful after the dredge plan was finished. "I see this as a better stewardship of our agricultural resources," he said.

To evaluate these plans, Drazkowski said he believed the Corps would delay any decision on the plan until some of those alternatives were properly evaluated. "I suggested to (the Corps' regional commander Col. Sam Calkins) a good idea here would be to delay the decision point till early next year," Drazkowski said. "That'd give us time to get a full analysis of the ideas and make sure we've done our due diligence to make sure the idea in front of us is the last one we adopt."

Throughout the meeting, representatives from the Corps stressed that their mandate from the federal government is to find the least costly, environmentally responsible alternative. And while the answer in the dredging plan might not be popular, it is the solution that meets the requirement of that mandate.

A good example of that, said Craig Evans with the Corps, is the Southside Fitzgerald site. It fits the Corps' environmental mandate and sits conveniently near Crats Island, the Crats dredge cut and the Teepeeota dredge cut. South Fitzgerald, Evans said, is "the only place that's suitable for our operations."

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"The one thing you haven't talked about is the impact on people," he said, listing issues such as truck traffic, dust and noise pollution. "For 40 years I've seen Crat Island being dredged on a yearly basis," he said. "I shudder to think what these people on River Drive South will be listening to."
The Mayo Clinic School of Medicine has been selected to take part in a new national collaborative aimed at transforming medical education.

The $52.5 million initiative called the Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Institute for the Transformation of Medical Education (Kern Institute) was announced Thursday with seven of the nation's top medical schools collaborating to "transform medical education across the continuum from premedical school to physician practice," Mayo said in a release.

The other schools taking part include: Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth; University of California; San Francisco School of Medicine; University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical Center; University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health; and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Wisconsin hosts the Kern Institute and will lead the collaboration.

"We must redefine medical education and advance innovative medical education models if we are to meet the needs of patients and society in the 21st century," said Dr. Fredric Meyer, Juanita Kious Waugh executive dean for dducation at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. "The Kern Institute and the National Transformation Network demonstrate the transformative impact that strategic philanthropy, dedicated leadership and aligned infrastructure can make in advancing innovation in medical education."

That ambitious goal has been debated across the country since it was first pushed forward by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement in 2008 under the guise of Triple Aim . The program sought to advance three main priorities: enhancing patient experience, improving population health and reducing cost.

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Some feel Triple Aim helped shape the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. The new Kern Institute initiative seeks to apply similar principles  character, competence and caring  to medical education.

Mayo says that the collaborating schools "believe these elements of physician development are critical to partnering with patients, families, and communities for compassionate, evidence-based care that is delivered with integrity."

"We are delighted to be working with our colleagues at the Kern Institute and the Network schools," said Dr. Stephanie Starr, who is leading the collaboration for Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. "Together, and with the support of the Kern Family Foundation, we have a unique opportunity to ensure all graduates from our seven schools possess the character, competence and caring approach that every patient can and should expect. This initiative expands on our core Mayo Clinic value: The needs of the patient come first."

The Mayo Clinic School of Medicine was established in Rochester in 1972. It now boasts campuses in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and is ranked among the Top 20 medical schools in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. It's considered one of the toughest medical schools to gain admittance.

Funding for the new collaborative is being supplied by a combination of gifts from the Kern Family and Kern Family Foundation, along with monetary support from the seven collaborating schools and other philanthropic support.

The Kern family has previously donated $100 million to Mayo Clinic , including $87 million to fund the creation of the Center for Science of Health Care Delivery, which was named in honor of Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern.
WINONA  A single-vehicle rollover crash sent two Winona women to the hospital Sunday night.

Jessica Lynn Wheelock, 20, of Winona, was driving a 1998 Toyota SUV east on Huff Street and preparing to make a left-hand turn onto southbound U.S. Highway 61 at about 9:47 p.m.. The vehicle accelerated, skidded towards the median across both lanes and rolled into the ditch, according to a report from the Minnesota State Patrol.

Wheelock and her passenger, Cheryl Joy Wheelock, 47, of Winona, were both transported to Winona Health with non-life threatening injuries, the report stated. Jessica Wheelock was listed in good condition at Winona Health. The hospital had no information on Cheryl Wheelock.

The Winona Police Department, Winona Fire and Ambulance and Winona County Sheriff's Office also responded to the call.
Last month, the Minnesota Legislature passed a $1 billion construction borrowing package known as the "bonding bill." Gov. Mark Dayton signed the measuring, meaning those dollars will soon be flowing to communities across the state. Here's a look at four major projects in southeast Minnesota that received funding.

Lanesboro Dam replacement

Bonding money:$4 million

Total project cost:Final number not known yet but city official say hope under $4 million

How will money be used?To replace the city's 149-year-old historic dam

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When will construction start?Goal is to start construction in spring 2018. Project still needs to obtain permits and approval from State Historic Preservation Office.

Why needed?"It's important for public safety," said Lanesboro City Administrator Michele Peterson. It is considered a high-hazard structure, meaning if it were to fail it could cause loss of life. It also generates hydro-electricity and is important part of city's history.

Red Wing rail grade separation

Bonding money:$14.8 million

Total project cost:$18.5 million

How will money be used?Sturgeon Lake Road is the only public access to Prairie Island Indian Community, Xcel Energy's Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lock and Dam 3. Canadian Pacific Railroad crosses that road. The project involves building a rail overpass, realigning Sturgeon Lake Road, adding new roadway connections and enhancing stormwater management.

When will construction start?Possible as early as late 2018

Why needed?First and foremost, for safety reasons. Administrative Business Director Marshall Hallock said if a milelong train is traveling on the track, it can block access to Prairie Island Indian Community for minutes. "It delays public safety responses. It has always been one of our most significant concerns," he said.

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Red Wing River Town Renaissance Phase 2

Bonding money:$4.4 million

Total project cost:$8 million

How will money be used?Build a new riverboat dock, removal and replacement of a small boat harbor bulkhead retaining wall, levee wall extension and Levee Park promenade improvements. Funds would also be used to renovate the historic Sheldon Theatre.

When will construction start?It could begin in late 2018

Why needed?It is expected to help boost the city's economy. Hallock said the new dock would enable the city to have two riverboats at the same time. "We want to make sure we can accommodate those boats and the economic benefit they would bring to Red Wing," Hallock said.

Winona State University's Education Village Phase II

Bonding money:$25 million

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Total project cost:$31 million

How will money be used?Renovating nearly 83,000-square-feet of space among three buildings  Cathedral Elementary School, Wabasha Recreation Center and Wabasha Hall. The renovated space will be used to create specialty labs and classrooms for the school's education programs.

When will construction start?It could begin as early as fall 2017

Why needed?To help train the teachers of tomorrow. "WSU's Education Village will focus on preparing quality teachers who can respond to the needs of school districts and communities in the region and across the state," said WSU spokeswoman Andrea Northam.
FARGO, N.D.  Linda Walker and Allan Sjodin have attended a handful of mostly procedural court hearings in the more than five years since the man who kidnapped and killed their daughter filed an appeal to spare his life. The next one will delve into painful details.

Attorneys for Alfonso Rodriguez Jr., who has been on death row at a federal prison in Indiana since 2003, are disputing whether Rodriguez raped University of North Dakota student Dru Sjodin and whether she died from having her throat cut. The defense says both points were used to unduly influence the jury in the death penalty phase. Prosecutors say the arguments have no merit.

Walker, who has grappled with seeing her daughter linked to Rodriguez over the years, particularly when newspapers run photos of the two side by side, said her daughter "fought like a Marine" after she was abducted from a Grand Forks shopping mall. Walker, of Pequot Lakes, Minn., said she plans to "fight for her now as much as possible."

That means attending hearings that are difficult, as well as speaking out for other victims.

"I ... think of her last hours on earth," she added. "That pales in comparison to what I can do."

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She dismisses Rodriguez's new arguments.

"At the end of the day Dru didn't walk away from the grips of him," Walker said. "To get down to the nitty gritty of it all ... did she die from a knife to her throat or did she die from the cold? She didn't go there willingly."

Rodriguez, of Crookston, Minn., is the only person in North Dakota who has been sentenced to death under federal law. Until this point, most of the hearings in the case have been wrapped up in one day. This hearing, scheduled to start Tuesday, could last up to seven days.

It will focus on the testimony of Dr. Michael McGee, the Ramsey County medical examiner who performed the autopsy. Defense attorneys say the centerpiece of the government's case was "the horrific testimony" by McGee that Sjodin was raped and died from two slash wounds to her neck.

Rodriguez's lawyers say McGee failed to properly test whether Sjodin was raped, and whether the neck wounds might have been from animals and decomposition after she died. The appeal says the government used that information to convince the jury that a death sentence was justified.

Prosecutors say the evidence of a sexual assault was overwhelming, including not only McGee's testimony but the fact that Sjodin was found naked from the waist down; her remaining clothing was ripped; she had been beaten; and her hands were bound behind her back. Beyond that, the government says it was unnecessary to prove sexual assault in order for the jury to find for the death penalty.

As for cause of death, prosecutors say that McGee never pinpointed the neck wounds as the definitive reason.

"From the United States' position, it mattered not whether a neck slash, asphyxiation, or brutal cold weather caused the death: all indicated that Rodriguez killed her in a heinous, cruel, or depraved manner," the response says.

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Walker said that while the pace of the appeal has been disheartening, she said it's important to "keep Dru's name out there" in her quest to help victims of sexual abuse. She has lobbied the Minnesota Legislature and other governing bodies to close loopholes on laws regarding sexual violence.

"There are other victims out there who are voiceless and nameless," she said. "From that aspect, if it just compels legislators and people who can make a difference for our citizens, I think it's truly important."
The BBC is one of the worlds notoriously antisemitic institutions. This instance is one in a long series.

On Friday, three Palestinian terrorists carried out two simultaneous attacks in Jerusalem. One of them succeeded in stabbing to death an Israeli Border Patrol officer, Hadas Malka. Four other Israelis were wounded in the attacks, and the three terrorists were killed by Israeli security forces. This is how the BBC headlined the terrorist attack:

The BBC apologized this morning:

We accept that our original headline did not appropriately reflect the nature of the events and subsequently changed it, BBC said in a statement. Whilst there was no intention to mislead our audiences, we regret any offense caused.

But it wont be long before the BBC does it again.
Omri Ceren writes from The Israel Project to draw attention to the AP story Iran calls missile attack a wider warning.:

Last week the Senate voted 98-2 to pass new Iran sanctions targeting 1st, Irans ballistic missile program and 2nd, the IRGC [a]. The Treasury Department had already been ramping up some measures against both: in February OFAC issued ballistic missile and IRGC designations, and in May it issued additional ballistic missile designations [b][c].

Yesterday the IRGC fired six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles into Syria. The Iranians unveiled the Zolfaghar in September, with a banner saying Iran could destroy the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa [d]. Iranian officials say the missile can carry multiple warheads and has a range of 700km [e]. That puts CENTCOMs forward headquarters in Qatar in range.

Today an IRGC general said that yesterdays launch hit ISIS assets and signaled Iran could target the U.S. and its regional allies. [Omri cites the AP story linked above.] The lede and quote:

Irans ballistic missile strike targeting the Islamic State group in Syria served both as revenge for attacks on Tehran earlier this month and a warning that Iran could strike Saudi Arabia and U.S. interests in the Mideast the missiles sent a message to more than just the extremists in Iraq and Syria, Gen. Ramazan Sharif of the Guard told state television in a telephone interview. The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message, he said. Obviously and clearly, some reactionary countries of the region, especially Saudi Arabia, had announced that they are trying to bring insecurity into Iran.

The Iranians say the new Senate sanctions against ballistic missiles violate the 2015 nuclear deal [f]. U.S. critics of new pressure on Iran, including former Secretary of State John Kerry, say the new Senate sanctions could undermine the deal [g][h].

[a] https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/722

[b] https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/as0004.aspx

[c] https://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/sm0088.aspx

[d] https://twitter.com/ShiaPulse/status/778510453123211264

[e] http://www.timesofisrael.com/iran-shows-off-missiles-targeting-israel/

[f] https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-says-us-senate-proposed-sanctions-ballistic-missiles-violate-nuclear-agreement-/28559921.html

[g] http://www.latimes.com/sns-bc-usjohn-kerry-iran-20170606-story.html

[h] https://twitter.com/johnkerry/status/867471418082152450
Richard Painter was an ethics lawyer in the George W. Bush administration. He has tweeted that if President Trump fires special counsel Robert Mueller, then Mike Pence will soon become the 46th President.

Painter supported Hillary Clinton for president last year. He went so far as to file a ridiculous ethics complaint against then-FBI Director James Comey over Comeys handling of the Clinton email investigation. He alleged that the Director violated the Hatch Act which bars the use of an official position to influence an election.

To say that Painter is biased against President Trump would be an understatement. But is he right that Trump would be removed from office if he fires Mueller?

I dont think so. Removing Trump would require substantial Republican support  first in the House and then in the Senate. Even if the Democrats capture the House in 2018 and overcome the adverse math in the Senate to pick up seats, they would still need substantial Republican support in the Senate to remove Trump.

On the facts we know now, that support almost certainly not not be forthcoming. For one thing, it wouldnt be a high crime or misdemeanor for the president to fire Mueller, Washington D.C. icon though he may be.

For another, again on the facts we know now, it would not be in the interests of most Republicans to support the impeachment of Trump. Im under no illusion that many Republican House and Senate members have any affection for, or loyalty to, Trump. Some may dislike him almost as much as Painter does.

But theres no future in committing political suicide. As we saw during the primary season, the Trump base makes up a substantial part of the Republican electorate. It hasnt wavered in its support for the president, and wouldnt do so in the event of a Mueller firing.

This enormous bloc of voters wouldnt take kindly to Republicans who vote to remove their man. Painter needs to explain how Republican Senators plan to win reelection if they stab Trump in the back, as his supporters would see it.

And it wouldnt just be the Trump base that disloyal Senators would have to worry about. Im not part of that base. Indeed, I preferred almost every candidate in the Republican presidential primary field to Trump. Yet, I would be hard-pressed to vote for a Republican member of Congress who voted to remove the president based on the evidence that has come to light so far, coupled with the decision to remove Mueller.

I have my doubts as to whether firing Mueller is the prudent move for Trump. But I seriously doubt that doing so would lead to Trumps removal. In fact, it may be that the odds of removal are greater if Mueller and his team of left-leaning partisans stay on and devote endless resources to conjuring up a case against the president.
Shortly after midnight in North London, a van struck pedestrians who were leaving a well-known mosque after late-night prayers associated with Ramadan. According to the police, there were a number of casualties. One person has been arrested.

The mosque in question  Finsbury Park Mosque  has a reputation as a focal point for radical Islamists. However, it is said to have transformed itself, or at least its image. The mosques leadership has been outspoken in advocating interfaith harmony.

During the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign, Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn invited Donald Trump to visit Finsbury Park Mosque to show him how multicultural, multifaith Britain works. Trump declined  wisely, I think.

All of this is beside the point right now, though. We can only pray for the victims of what almost certainly is a terrorist attack, and await more information.

UPDATE: Reportedly, one person was killed in the attack. Eight others are being treated at hospitals in London. Two more sustained injuries, but werent hospitalized.

The driver of the van is in police custody. According to the police, he is a 48 year-old male. One witness says he is white, with heavily tattooed arms. Some witnesses have said the driver was not alone in the van, but this remains to be seen.
In his blog, Master Resource, Robert Bradley, Jr. recognizes that energy is the lifeblood of the modern economy, and that it significantly affects the production and use of other resources. The energy industry should be viewed differently from other industries by politicians and analysts.

Mr Hilton discusses the highly successful UK petrochemical firm Ineos. The firm may invest 2 billion (1.76 billion) expanding its European petrochemicals capacity, possibly in Belgium. But location is only part of the issue. As Mr. Hilton states:

Once you have built a major chemical complex, your main (in many ways, your only) worry is the cost of the raw material you need to feed into it. This can account for half or more of total production costs, and is similarly crucial for other energyintensive industries such as refining, iron and steel, glass, cement and paper.

Until a few years ago Europe and America paid more or less the same amount for their petrochemical feedstock  the US had a slight advantage but not so great after transport and other costs had been factored in. (Middle East plants, sited right by the oilfields, did have such a price advantage but lacked scale.)

This is no longer the case thanks to the fundamental changes across the Atlantic. The Marcellus field, which spreads over several states and is just one of many in the US, produces 15 billion cubic feet of gas a day which is almost twice the UKs entire consumption. But the result is that US prices have disconnected from the rest of the world and the subsequent feedstock prices have given American chemical plants so vast a price advantage that, on paper at least, theres no way Europe can compete. It is staring down the barrel of bankruptcy, not now, but in a few short years, unless it can find some way to get its rawmaterial costs down to American levels.

Thus far, the effect has been muted  and the European industry has had a little time  because the US petrochemical industry was originally not built for indigenous US gas and oil supplies but instead located near ports and configured to process supplies of oil from the Middle East.

But this is changing fast. There has been virtually no big petrochemical investment in Europe in the past decade whereas in the US since 2010 some $85 billion of petrochemicals projects have been completed or are under construction. Spending on chemical capacity to 2022 will exceed $124 billion, according to the American Chemistry Council, creating 485,000 jobs during construction and more than 500,000 permanent jobs, adding between $80 billion and $120 billion in economic output. After years where chemical capacity has run neck and neck with Europe, the American industry is about to dwarf it.
The formal announcement of the exit of Mubadala Development Company as the largest shareholder of Etisalat Nigeria Limited and a new ownership structure is being delayed to allow investment, debt and regulatory issues to be resolved, those briefed about the talks have said.

The exit of the United Arab Emirates, UAE, investor from Nigerias fourth largest telecommunication firm, which was reported exclusively last week by PREMIUM TIMES, is yet to be officially confirmed either by Mubadala, Etisalat or the regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission.

Despite repeated contacts with both companies and the NCC, none has formally confirmed the development, which has already signaled more trouble for the debt-plagued Nigerian telecom firm.

The spokesperson for the NCC, Tony Ojobo, insisted the commission was yet to be formally informed of the withdrawal of Mubadala.

But he said whatever the outcome, all parties involved would have to meet first to resolve all the issues, to know how to move forward.

Whatever statement will be made will be based on the discussions and agreement reached. This cannot be concluded earlier than early next week (this week), Mr. Ojobo said.

He said there were certain critical issues that need to be settled before the announcement could be made public.

The issue involves two regulating authorities in the Nigerian economy  the NCC and the financial sector regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Ojobo told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday in a telephone chat in Abuja.

The issue at stake has to do an operating license issued to a telecom mobile operator, which had terms and conditions attached to the award. Again, there is the issue of the debt, which brought an agreement between CBN, the banks and Etisalat, Mr. Ojobo explained.

Although Etisalat management was also cautious not to be seen to have confirmed the exit of its majority shareholder, it however acknowledged PREMIUM TIMES report, saying its immediate focus was to reach a final resolution on the debt crisis with consortium of banks.

Its vice President, Regulatory & Corporate Affairs, Ibrahim Dikko, in a statement said the reported exit of Mubadala was premature to accept, as discussions were ongoing to affirm that as a conclusive option.

Etisalat Nigeria considers it pertinent to state that parties to the negotiations are considering a number of options, and discussions are at an advanced stage regarding the syndicated loan agreement with the banks.

We are considering a number of options and are not taking anything off the table at this time. Parties are keen to ensure that the ongoing discussions and eventual outcome do not affect the day to day operations of the business, whether now or after the announcement of our agreement, Mr. Dikko said.

Financial crisis

Etisalat Nigeria has been in the eye of the storm following a financial crisis in the wake of pressure on it by a consortium of some foreign and Nigerian banks, led by Access Bank, to recover a $1.72 billion (about N541.8 billion) loan facility the company obtained in 2015.

The loan, which involved a foreign-backed guaranty bond, was for Etisalat to finance a major network rehabilitation and expansion of its operational base in Nigeria.

Its inability to meet its debt servicing obligation agreed since 2016 compelled the consortium of banks, prodded by their foreign partners, to take up the matter with the NCC.

When engagements involving the NCC failed to yield an amicable settlement, the telecom sector regulator invited the intervention of the CBN, its financial sector counterpart.

The intervention of the two regulatory authorities persuaded the banks to suspend their decision to take over Etisalat Nigeria, giving it an opportunity to renegotiate and reschedule the loan repayment date.

Mubadala, which controls 70 per cent stake in Etisalat along with its affiliate, Etisalat UAE mobile, was at the head of the renegotiation process.

But, following the rejection of the proposed May 31 repayment date, the banks issued a default note to Etisalat, which forms part of the ongoing negotiations.

New ownership

With the imminent departure of Mubadala, Etisalat Nigeria would be left in the control of Emerging Markets Telecommunications Services (EMTS, promoted by Hakeem Bello-Osagie, which controls 30 per cent of the shareholding of the company.

To allow for a new ownership structure for company, it was learnt that the board of Etisalat Nigeria would have to be dissolved, with the creditor banks effectively taking control through a holding company they would present for NCCs approval.

Already, the banks are said to be looking towards U.K. for a possible replacement to Mubadala at the end of negotiations.

Multiple sources familiar with the crisis said even the banks understand the importance of Mubadala being around to be part of the negotiations.

The consortium of banks know if Mubadala is allowed to make its exit from Etisalat public at this point, they will lose the operational license. The license issued to Etisalat to operate a mobile telephone system was on the strength of Mubadalas involvement as a major shareholder, one of the sources said.

Aware of the damaging impact any information about Mubadalas exit could have on ongoing negotiations on the debt issue, the source said the banks have joined in prevailing on the UAE investor to delay a little further the public announcement of its imminent departure from Nigeria.

One of the sources who requested that his name should not be revealed, as he was not authorised to speak on the issue, said Mubadala, which is equally scaling down its investments in other locations around the world, agreed to play along.

The company believes it has since recouped its investment in Nigeria and has nothing to lose doing the bidding of the banks and Etisalat, another source said.

But, PREMIUM TIMES learnt the Nigerian government was also concerned about the possible backlash of Mubadalas exit on the worsening economy and was doing everything to patch up things to make Etisalat stay afloat.

Everybody is cautious about the investment. Governments greatest concern is that allowing Etisalat to go under at this time will not only worsen the unemployment situation, but will give Nigeria a bad name, as an unstable business destination. That is why all the parties, including the CBN and NCC, are doing everything to manage the information about Mubadalas departure till after the negotiations, the source added.

Etisalats background

Etisalat, which commenced business in Nigeria in 2009, acquired the unified access license, including a mobile license and spectrum in the GSM 1800 and 900 MHZ bands from the NCC in January 2007.

The company is rated by the NCC as Nigerias fourth largest telecoms operator, with about 21 million subscribers or about 12.9 per cent of the telecom market share as at January 2017.

MTN takes the lead with 60 million, or 40 per cent market share; Globacom, 37million, or 24.6 per cent; and Airtel 34.6 million, or 22.8 per cent.

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The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Banking and Currency, Jones Onyereri, has said that the House would stop the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, from purchasing new bad debts from Deposit Money Banks, DMBs, in the country.

Mr. Onyereri, who was speaking in Enugu State at the opening of a retreat for the lawmakers, noted that since the countrys economy is already on the path of recovery from recession, it would not be advisable for AMCON to take on that responsibility now.

We are aware that some economists are clamouring for AMCON to buy more toxic assets from the Eligible Financial Institutions, EFIs, in the country. We wish to sound a note of warning that this committee will not, I repeat, will not support any such move.

At least not at a time like this in the history of our economy. The very high level of non-performing loans in the country are worse than the 2009 experience and far above the regulatory threshold, Mr. Onyereri said.

Although he commended AMCON for performing above board as an interventionist institution of the federal government, he expressed worry that the corporation often faces institutional and legal constraints to achieving optimum results.

In 2015, Mr. Onyereri said, the House decided to amend certain aspects of the AMCON Act to further strengthen the corporation, including the establishment of the resolution sinking fund to support its operations.

The lawmaker traced the legal and institutional bottlenecks to lack of co-operation from EFIs; issues relating to claw-back on EFIs and intervened banks, and wrong interpretation of the AMCON Act, resulting in conflicting decisions by the courts, especially where it relates to possessory and freezing orders.

The other challenge, he said, has to do with disingenuous acts of the obligors, who exploit court processes and the shortcomings in the extant statutes to frustrate the efforts of the corporation to recover the loans from obligors.

I find it troubling that while some of these obligors frustrate AMCON recovery efforts by exploiting the court system, they continue to do business with the federal government and get paid. These issues contribute a lot in hampering the efforts of the corporation and must be nipped in the bud through proactive legislative instruments.

We have to find ways to ensure better cooperation from the EFIs to enable AMCON effectively recover these loans. Where they are not willing to cooperate with AMCON, then AMCON must and should enforce its right of clawback on the EFIs.

He said AMCON needs to be empowered to recover the public funds used to buy these bad loans that helped prevent the EFIs from going under.

Besides, he stressed the need to sensitise the courts to speed up the process of resolving AMCON cases before it, by streamlining the processes and preventing obligors from using technicalities to circumvent the process.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AMCON, Ahmed Kuru, said the corporations recent assessment of obligors as at December 31, 2016 identified 350 accounts with a current exposure of N2.5 trillion, representing about 80 per cent of AMCONs total obligor debt.

He said AMCON had also repositioned its debt recovery approach to strengthen legal and credit restructuring units to collaborate on the 350 accounts termed defaulters; enhance the restructuring and turnaround team; and engage in asset tracing to enhance recovery.

In spite of the difficulties, AMCON continues to persevere in the face of adversity, Mr. Kuru said.

He said reasons given for AMCONs failure to recover its debt, principally owed to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), could not be quantified, as it goes beyond economic cost.

The AMCON boss said the corporations debt repayment to the CBN stood at about N456.4 billion and N517.7 billion for 2015 and 2016 respectively against actual payments of N256.7 billion and N191.1 billion.

This translated to a funding shortfall of N199.7 billion and N326.4 billion for the two years respectively, represented 42 per cent and 53 per cent gaps, while the resolution cost fund represented 58 per cent and 47 per cent in 2015 and 2016, respectively.

The funding plan envisaged 70 per cent contribution from the resolution cost fund and 30 per cent from recovery.

Today, AMCONs total debt obligation of N4.6 trillion represents 75 per cent of the 2016 national budget, 26 per cent of the 2016 total national debt, and 5 per cent of the countrys nominal gross domestic product in 2016. Given the current demands on the Federal Government, it is doubtful that it can afford to dispense AMCONs debt in the short term, he said.

Mr. Kuru urged the lawmakers to weigh the implications of the proposed Nigerian Assets Management Agency, NAMA, on AMCON, arguing that under the law, the corporation should not qualify as an agency it covers, as its asset were principally acquired from the banking sector to resolve debts.

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Iran fired missiles on Sunday into eastern Syria, aiming at the bases of militant groups it holds responsible for attacks in Tehran which left 18 dead last week, Irans Tasnim news agency reported.

Tasnim reported that Iranian Revolutionary Guards launched the mid-range ground-to-ground missiles from western Iran into the Deir al Zour region of eastern Syria, killing a large number of terrorists and destroying their equipment and weapons.

The news agency reported that missiles targeted the headquarters and gathering centres of Takfiri terrorists supporting and building car bombs.

Reuters could not independently verify the report.

Military leaders and officials in Iran, a predominantly Shiite country, often refer to Sunni Muslim radicals as Takfiris.

The Revolutionary Guards are fighting in Syria against militant groups who oppose President Bashar al-Assad.

The attack last week, which included shootings and at least one suicide bombing, was on Irans parliament and the shrine of Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic.

The spilling of any pure blood will not go unanswered, the Revolutionary Guards said in the statement quoted by Tasnim.

Islamic State issued a statement claiming responsibility for the Tehran attack.

Senior Iranian officials, however, have pointed a finger at Saudi Arabia, Irans Sunni regional rival.

(Reuters/NAN)

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Russia on Monday suspended cooperation with the U.S. in Syrian airspace after the U.S.-led coalition shot down a Syrian jet on Sunday.

The Russian Defence Ministry said in a statement that it terminates cooperation with the U.S. side within the framework of the Memorandum on Incident Prevention and Aviation Safety in operations in Syria from June 19, and demands a thorough investigation by the U.S. command (into the downing).

According to the statement, a U.S. F/A-18 fighter jet on Sunday shot down a Syrian Su-22 bomber, which was carrying out a combat mission in support of government troops conducting an offensive against Islamic State terrorists in the vicinity of Raqqa, the groups stronghold.

The U.S. Central Command said, however, that the Syrian plane bombed U.S.-backed forces and the action against it was in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defense of Coalition partnered forces.

The Russian defence ministry said it has considered the downing of the Syrian warplane a cynical violation of the sovereignty of Syria, and a gross violation of international law and, in fact, a military aggression against Syria.

It added that Russian warplanes were also operating in Syrias airspace at the moment of the attack, but the U.S.-led coalition didnt use the existing communication channels to warn the Russian military.

The ministry warned that from now on, all aircraft and drones of the coalition detected west of the Euphrates River will be tracked by Russian air-and ground-based air defence systems as targets.

(Xinhua/NAN)

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Deutsche Welle Director General, Peter Limbourg, on Monday presented this years Freedom of Speech Award to Jeff Mason, president of the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA), at the Global Media Forum in Bonn, Germany.

In his acceptance speech, Jeff Mason said he and his colleagues would never have sought or expected the award.

Gregor Mayntz, president of the Federal Press Conference, Germany, held the laudatio. Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media, Monika Grutters, also gave a speech.

We see this award as recognizing free press worldwide and in the U.S.  and as a sign of solidarity and encouragement for those colleagues who have the exciting task of reporting about the U.S. President and his policies, said Mr. Limbourg.

He emphasized that we do not see ourselves as being above others. I very much hope that Donald Trump does not serve to stir up anti-Americanism.

Mr. Limbourg continued: The United States is a great nation with marvelous people, with inspiring artists, scientists and journalists. Thats what todays event is about.

Jeff Mason: Challenges increased dramatically

Mr. Mason, who became president of the WHCA in July 2016, said that since Donald Trumps election, the WHCAs challenges increased dramatically.

He said he had tried to build a constructive relationship with then President-elect Trumps new press team and managed to arrange a meeting. However, since the beginning of 2017, there have been highs and lows in the relationship.

Access for journalists, meanwhile, has actually been quite good, Mr. Mason said, adding that was a fact that is sometimes overlooked because of the heated relationship between the press and the President.

Quoting the first amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Mr. Mason said if there is anything I have learned in the last eleven months of leading the correspondents association, it is that we cannot take those rights or the law that guarantees them for granted. We must remain vigilant against any attempt to curtail the freedom of the press and any attempt to undermine the important work journalists do. We must also correct mistakes when we make them and report truthfully to guard against actual made-up or fake news, which does indeed exist and is dangerous to a functioning democracy.

Mr. Mason said it was humbling for the WHCA to be in the company of the previous winners of the Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award, Raif Badawi and Sedat Ergin. He said that if Deutsche Welles choice highlights the fact that even in strong, established democracies, reporters rights must be fought for, then it is in that spirit that I accept this award today.

Gregor Mayntz: Make freedom of the press great again

In his speech, Mr. Mayntz laid out a ten-point plan to protect press freedom from the new danger it faces. You have met the challenges of all ten points, for which you have earned the right to the Freedom of Speech Award 2017.

Mr. Mayntz called for journalists worldwide to remain true to their journalistic principles, including fact-checking what the publish as well as admitting mistakes.

Stand together, never give up, as the challenges to democracy and freedom of speech are not limited to one country.

Monika Grutters: Journalistic diversity is stronger than simple-minded populism

Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media, Monika Grutters, drew a comparison between politics and theatre: Unusual performances, bizarre scenes and remarkable staging are no longer the hallmark of the stage but have rather become a presence in the offices of old, honourable, dignified democracies.

Actors would have been given a run for their money when it comes to presentation and to alternative facts  and journalists, insulted as enemies of the people, feel themselves confronted with a war cry, Ms Grutters said.

We cannot sit quietly and watch as close partners both inside and outside of the European Union are arresting journalists, artists and members of the opposition. In limiting the freedom of the press, they are sounding the death knell for democracy.

She said the Global Media Forum provided the impulse for the close examination of the future of journalism and the freedom of expression in the digital age.

Only diversity of opinion and perspective helps to legitimize the truth, Ms Grutters added.

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At least eight persons were feared killed and about 30 others injured on Sunday when suicide bombers carried out multiple attacks at a crowded location in Dalori, a suburb of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The attacks occurred at about 10 p.m. with thundering sounds from the blasts echoing into the city as majority Muslim residents began to retire after observing the days Ramadan night prayers.

Authorities have not issued any statement on the attack, even as witnesses, mostly members of the Civilian-JTF, said the assault had caused some substantial casualties.

A soldier, who was among those that visited the site shortly after the blasts occurred, informed journalists on condition of anonymity that about 8 persons were dead and over 30 people got injured.

The casualty figures have, however, not been officially confirmed.

The blasts came few hours after an unconfirmed report filtered into the town that soldiers ran into a Boko Haram ambush along Damboa-Maiduguri road during which three of them were feared dead.

The military has not issued any statement on the reported ambush.

The Boko Haram insurgency has caused about 100,000 deaths since 2009 and have continued despite the insurgents losing most of the territory they once controlled to soldiers.

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The coalition of northern youth groups that recently gave Igbos resident in Northern Nigeria three months ultimatum to vacate the region has urged Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to allow Biafran secessionists succeed through peaceful means.

The group, in an open letter to the acting president, urged him to take steps to facilitate the actualization of the Biafran nation in line with the principle of self-determination as an integral part of contemporary customary international law.

The coalition commended Mr. Osinbajo for initiating series of discussions with leaders from the north and south-east. The signatories, however, said they believe the talks would not yield any positive results.

The letter, which was signed by five leaders of the group and sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday, said the principle of self-determination has, since World War II become a part of the United Nations Charter which states in Article 1(2), that one of the purposes of the UN is to develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.

We submit that this protocol envisages that people of any nation have the right to self-determination, and although the Charter did not categorically impose direct legal obligations on member States; it implies that member States allow agitating or minority groups to self-govern as much as possible, they said.

Read full letter below:

June, 19th 2017

His Excellency,

Professor Yemi Osinbajo,

Acting President,

Federal Republic of Nigeria,

Aso Rock Presidential Villa

Abuja

OPEN LETTER

Your Excellency,

APPRECIATION

On behalf of this coalition and all the peace-loving people of Northern Nigeria, we begin this letter by commending your efforts towards finding a lasting solution to the lingering Igbo-induced crisis that is undoubtedly overheating the polity.

We sincerely believe Your Excellencys good intentions as shown by your prompt and genuine actions towards ensuring peace and stability in holding talks with leaders of the North and the South-East.

Though we do not doubt Your Excellencys bona fide concerns for the peaceful resolution of the crises, we nevertheless have reservations as to the efficacy of this approach in ensuring lasting solutions.

Our doubts are informed by the following historical antecedents that have characterized the behaviour and conduct of the Igbo in Nigeria and previous efforts at containing them.

PAST EXPERIENCES

The Igbo of Eastern Nigeria manifested their hatred for Nigerias unity barely five years after we gained our independence from the British when on January 15, 1966, their army officers carried out the first-ever mutiny that marked the beginning of a series of crisis which has profoundly altered the course of Nigerias history.

By that ill motivated, cowardly and deliberate action, the Igbo killed many northern officers from the rank of lieutenant colonel upwards and also decapitated the Prime Minister and the political leadership of the Northern and Western regions but left the zenith of Igbo leadership at the Federal level and the Eastern region intact.

In line with the Igbo plan, General Aguiyi-Ironsi took advantage of the vacuum and, instead of returning power to the remnants of the First Republic government, he appropriated the coup and attempted to consolidate it for his people.

Army officers of the Northern Region were eventually compelled to execute a counter coup on July 29, 1966 following a coordinated series of brazen provocations from the Igbo who taunted northerners on northern streets by mocking the way leaders of the region were slain by the Igbo. This unfortunately resulted in mob action which resulted in the death of many Igbos.

And when Lt. Col. Yakubu Gowon, from the North took over as Head of State following the counter coup, the Igbo through Lt. Col. Ojukwu, characteristically refused to recognize Gowon.

Ojukwu declared the secession of the Igbo people from Nigeria and the formation of the republic of Biafra on May 30, 1967 resulting in a civil war that led to the tragic deaths of more than 2 million Nigerians.

It is important to note here that the Igbo eventually capitulated and conceded defeat in an unconditional surrender, not an armistice, on January 15, 1970 which renders any talk about Biafra at any other time, a repudiation of the terms of that surrender signed by Phillip Effiong and other Biafran leaders.

BIAFRA REINCARNATED

In a shot out of the blues, the Igbo have over the last 2 years regrouped and fiercely and openly started discussing Biafra again under Ralph Uwazuruike of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State Of Biafra MASSOB.

This was given greater impetus by a more furious Igbo rogue group called the Indigenous People Of Biafra IPOB under Nnamdi Kanu who even operates an illegal radio station spreading hate and war messages across the nation, calling other ethnic groups all sorts of names and threatening them with violent extermination.

The activities of the Igbo under Kanus IPOB has grown exponentially ranging from ordering people of other regions out of the South East  particularly the Yorubas and Hausa /Fulani from the South West and the North respectively, to open declaration of the amassing of arms and forceful total shutdown of the entire South-East.

KANU and IPOB have declared full allegiance to a Republic of Biafra and continue to preach hatred and war virtually every day, and not for once did any Igbo leader call them to order. Instead, many of the leaders including Mr Ike Ekweremadu, the deputy senate president, the most senior elected Igbo, pay Kanu courtesy calls to prove that he is speaking for the entire Igbo. It is glaring to all that Kanu has serially breached all the terms of his stringent jail conditions in total disregard to the sanctity of our justice system.

Even the latest statement by the South-East Governors Forum signed by Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State in a response to the Northern reaction, did not condemn Kanu and Uwazuruike but characterised their action as peaceful.

While all this is going on, neither the Igbo political and cultural leaders nor other regional leaders of the North or West nor the international community or any religious body ever found it necessary to call these renegade groups to order or in the very least admonish their leaders to do so.

Furthermore, none of the Igbo leaders holding various positions in this government ever disowned IPOB or condemned its operations until lately with Governor Rochas Okorochas mild condemnation after the Kaduna Declaration by our Coalition.

GROUNDS FOR SUSPICION

Given the unrepentant antecedents exhibited by the Igbo as highlighted above, we strongly believe that the gruesome picture that the Biafran agitation represents is beyond a few people showcasing to Your Excellency that the Igbo will eventually heed the call for peace and desist from their dangerous campaign against Nigeria.

The seed of hate planted in the name of Biafra is evidently so deep that the ongoing interaction between you and the leaders from the South East cannot in our well informed opinion douse or address the underlying deep seated underlying problems.

We base our concerns on the following grounds.

Despite the fact that the Igbo have been the most accommodated and tolerated of all the ethnic groups of Nigeria, the renewed incessant, spiteful and vile threats and insults on Northern leaders and their people, culture and religions that are the targets of this venomous agitation for Biafra, can hardly be addressed through a series of two hours dialogues.

As if to prove this, barely hours after Your Excellencys meeting with the South-East leaders, the Biafran Igbo openly disowned the leaders and dissociated themselves from the meeting.

More disturbingly, Kanu has openly claimed that the Biafran agitators have amassed arms in readiness for a war of secession which is quite conceivable given the fact that since 2009, catches of dangerous weapons routinely smuggled into the country and occasionally intercepted by the Nigerian authorities, were all traced to Igbo sources.

The situation continues to be baffling and alarming and therefore unacceptable  especially with the Igbo political and opinion leaders openly legitimizing the violent comments, insults, threats, hate speeches and call to anarchy that the Biafrans led by Nnamdi Kanu are making against the North and the Nigerian state in general.

South-East leaders have instead, enthusiastically given Kanu the platform, patronage and symbolic legitimacy through an ignominious display of homage, reception and open embrace.

OUR CONCERNS

Concerned by the fact that the Biafrans have confessed to arming themselves for a violent breakup, we feel that it is risky for the rest of the country particularly the North to go on pretending that it is safe for us to co-habitate with the Igbos given how deeply they are entrenched in our societies.

And since evidently the Igbo have not been sufficiently humbled by their self-imposed bloody civil violence of 1966, we are strongly concerned that nothing short of granting their Biafran dream will suffice.

And since the Igbo have virtually infiltrated every nook and cranny of Northern Nigeria where they have been received with open arms

as fellow compatriots, we strongly believe that the region is no longer safe and secure in the light of the unfolding threats and the fact that for a long time, the Igbo have gone to extra ordinary lengths to ensure that in their domain in the South East, Northerners and Westerners are as much as possible disenfranchised from owning any businesses whereas in Kano alone, they own not less than 100, 000 shops across all the business districts.

That since the younger generation of Nigerians makes up for more than 60 percent of the nations population, it is our hope that they inherit this country in better shape so that they can build a much better future for themselves and their offsprings in an atmosphere that is devoid of anarchy, hate, suspicion and negativity that characterize the polarized, and clearly irreconcilable differences forced on us by the Biafran Igbos.

To make a bad situation even worse, their leaders have continued to show support for this treacherous cause and thus giving credence to our concern that what they say against us is what they truly mean and intend  Kill everyone in the Zoo (North). Your Excellency, we cannot afford to discard this as mere mischief as the utterances that caused the terrible Rwandan genocide still resonates in our minds.

Lastly Sir, it is quite impossible to expect that other nationalities would simply stand by and watch while a certain ethnic group perpetrates all the above heinous misconducts that involve threats, call to violence and extermination, insults and songs of war without responding.

OUR STAND

While we unequivocally restate that we are not waging war or calling anyone to violence, we nevertheless are also not willing to continue tolerating the malicious campaign and threats of war that the Igbos have continued to wage against us.

Neither can we afford to continue giving the keys to our cities to a people whose utterances, plans and arrangements are clearly geared towards war and anarchy.

We therefore demand that the only enduring solution to this scourge that is being visited on the nation is complete separation of the states presently agitating for Biafra from the Federal Republic of Nigeria through a peaceful political process by:

Taking steps to facilitate the actualization of the Biafran nation in line with the principle of self-determination as an integral part of contemporary customary international law.

The principle of self-determination has, since world war II become a part of the United Nations Charter which states in Article 1(2), that one of the purposes of the UN is to develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.

We submit that this protocol envisages that people of any nation have the right to self-determination, and although the Charter did not categorically impose direct legal obligations on member States; it implies that member States allow agitating or minority groups to self-govern as much as possible.

This principle of self-determination has since been espoused in two additional treaties: The United Nations Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights and the United Nations Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Article 1 of both international documents promote and protect the right of a people to self-determination. State parties to these international documents are obliged to uphold the primacy and realization of this right as it cements the international legal philosophy that gives a people the right to self-determination.

As the Igbo agitations persist and assume threatening dimensions, we submit that there is need to ensure that they are given the opportunity to exercise the right to self-determination as entrenched under the aforementioned international statutes to which Nigeria is a signatory.

PRAYERS:

Aware that the right of self-determination in international law is the legal right for a people that allows them to attain a certain degree of autonomy from a sovereign state through a legitimate political process, we strongly demand for a referendum to take place in a politically sane atmosphere where all parties will have a democratic voice over their future and the future of the nation.

The Igbo from all over the country and in the Diaspora should be advised to converge in their region in the South-East for a plebiscite to be organized and conducted by the United Nations and other regional bodies for them to categorically to decide between remaining part of Nigeria or having their separate country.

That government should at the end of the plebiscite implement whatever is agreed and resolved in order to finally put this matter to rest.

Lastly, we pray His Excellency to study the references forwarded with this letter dispassionately and decide who is more in the wrong between those who openly pledge allegiance to a country other than Nigeria backing it up with persistent threats of war and those of us whose allegiance remains with the Nigerian state but simply urge that the secessionists be allowed to actualize their dream peacefully throw universally entrenched democratic options.

CONCLUSION

Your Excellency, we want to reiterate our high respect for your office and acknowledge the efforts you are making to lower tensions. We assure you, as well-brought up northerners, we listen to the advice and cautions of our elders, and in particular, their concerns that we do not create the impression that any Igbo or any Nigerian will be harmed in the North. We assure you that we will defend the rights of every Nigerian to live in peace and have their rights protected.

While we do not see this clamour for Biafra as an issue over which a single drop of blood should be shed, we at the same time, insist that the Igbo be allowed to have their Biafra and for them to vacate our land peacefully so that our dear country Nigeria could finally enjoy lasting peace and stability.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

SIGNED:

Amb. Shettima Yerima

Joshua Viashman

Aminu Adam

Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

Nastura Ashir Sharif

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The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun said that the federal government was ready to release N350 billion, being the first tranche for implementation of the 2017 budget.

Mrs. Adeosun said this on Monday in Abuja at the public presentation of 2017 Appropriation Act.

She said that the Federal Government had enough cash available to immediately commence the execution of key projects and initiatives scheduled for the 2017 fiscal year.

We are ready, we are having a cash-plan meeting very soon and after that, N350 billion will be released as first tranche of capital releases for the 2017 budget, she said.

Also speaking, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udoma Udoma, said funding of projects would now be on Project-Based Release System to curb waste of public funds by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

He said also that part of the requirement for capital releases was evidence of compliance with the Bureau of Public Procurement Act.

Mr. Udoma said that henceforth, no MDA was authorised to enter into a foreign denominated contract without the approval of the Ministers of Budget and National Planning, and Finance.

He also said the federal government would strengthen its monitoring and evaluation framework to improve physical inspection and impact assessment of projects and programmes implemented by MDAs.

We are worried and concerned about the number of abandoned capital projects scattered in their thousands throughout the country, which we inherited from previous administrations.

We know that you cant continue doing things the same way and expect different result, so we have to do things differently. We need to have more targeted releases. We have to look at the projects which are important and can easily be completed.

The ministers are working together to ensure that over time, we concentrate our resources on completing important projects, so that we have maximum impact, he said.

Mr. Udoma also said that his ministry was working with the National Assembly to get the countrys fiscal year adjusted to between January and December.

He said this could only be achieved when the executive and legislature work together to ensure that the budget was submitted, passed and signed before December 31, 2017.

In his remarks, the Director-General, Budget Office of the Federation, Ben Akabueze, said the Office had introduced a new system known as Citizen Portal.

According to him, the portal which can be found on the budget office website, provides insights into the 2017 budget in a non-technical way for Nigerians.

It is important for citizens to understand the budget, especially its key deliverables and their role in its implementation.

When citizens do not fully understand the budget, it significantly limits their ability to engage with the budget process and hold government accountable for the prudent management of financial resources entrusted to it, he said.

(NAN)

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The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, has cautioned judges against allowing technicalities stand in the way of dispensing justice in the country.

Mr. Onnoghen made the remark on Monday in Abuja when he declared open the 2017 National Energy Workshop for Judges.

He said that judges must not allow technicalities to stand in the way of justice in order to sustain public confidence in the judiciary.

He said that the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) would engender timely disposition of cases and encouraged the judges to adopt it.

The CJN noted that the theme of the workshop: Law and the Changing Face of Petroleum and Power Sectors in Nigeria, was relevant in the light of the developments in the international energy market.

He said that the workshop would enlighten the judges on global best practices in confronting the challenges that might arise in the power and petroleum sectors.

Some of the notable challenges faced are in the areas of taxes, rebates, royalties, demand for corporate social responsibility and environmental disputes which require the courts to adjudicate.

Mr. Onnoghen, however, noted that conflicting judgments were a necessary part of the judiciary as they helped to strengthen the system.

Conflicting decisions, unfortunately, are necessary because when you approach a court in Lagos, your facts are stated and the facts of that case are also different in a court in Port Harcourt.

So, the judge takes a decision based on the facts before him and the law and that is why we have the Court of Appeal who will look at the law and decide, the CJN said.

He expressed confidence that the workshop would aid the justices and judges in the adjudication and resolution of lingering disputes

In a keynote address, the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, called for measures to speed the crawling judicial process in the country.

Mr. Osinbajo, who was represented by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu, described the slow judicial process in the country as nightmare for investors.

We need to evolve measures that will speed up the judicial decisions. We also need these decisions not to be too complicated for investors to easily understand, he said.

The acting president expressed the need to align the decisions of various courts with some level of credibility to avoid complicated decisions from unnecessary forum shopping.

We need to ensure sanctity of international arbitration and judges should be trained in petroleum and energy sectors so that they will be fully equipped to handle the emerging trends in the sector.

According to him, petroleum and the power sectors provide 80 per cent of Nigerias revenue and over 80 per cent of foreign direct investment.

He added that as critical as the sectors were, if the country was not positioned to supply the necessary power essential for driving the economy, the country would not make much progress.

In a goodwill message, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, noted that the role of the judiciary in the post-privatisation period was to encourage the sector to grow.

He said that the judiciary is to also hold parties to their contracts and ensure that the regulator does not exceed its mandate and that citizens fulfil their civic obligations.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the workshop was organised by the International Institute for Petroleum Energy Law and Policy in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute.

The workshop was organised to draw attention to emerging issues and challenges in the energy sector and to enlighten judges on on-going reforms in the power and energy sectors of the economy.

(NAN)

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An Islamic cleric, Taofeek Adams, on Monday appeared before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates Court in Lagos for allegedly severing the body of a worshipper.

The accused, 61, a resident of Masinowe Compound, Ikoga in Badagry, was charged with conspiracy and murder.

The court could not take his plea as Magistrate A.S. Okubule said that she needed advice from the state director of public prosecutions.

Ms. Okubunle ordered the remand of the accused at the Ikoyi Prisons custody pending the advice.

The prosecutor, Chinalu Uwadione, had told the court that Adams (a.k.a. Kiekie) severed the body of one Oluwakemi Afolabi, 38, who worshipped in a mosque he presided over.

Mr. Uwadione said that the cleric committed the offences on March19 at 4.00 p.m. at Waterside, Ikoga-Zebbe in Badagry.

He said that the deceased had come to seek spiritual help from the cleric.

The accused beheaded the deceased before chopping off her other parts for ritual purposes.

He was apprehended when members of the community saw him carrying a sack soaked with blood, Mr. Uwadione said.

He noted that the offences contravened Sections 222 and 233 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The court adjourned the case until July 14 for mention.

(NAN)

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The Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, MLSCN, has rolled out an external quality assurance, EQA, programme to enhance the quality of laboratory test results in Nigeria.

The council is carrying out the exercise in collaboration with OneWorld Accuracy, a Canada-based firm currently operating in 23 African countries, said Erhabor Tosan, the Acting Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of MLSCN.

According to a press statement by the Ministry of Health on Monday, Mr. Tosan, disclosed this when he led a delegation to visit the Minister of State for Health, Osagie Ehanire, in his office.

The MLSN is the statutory regulatory body for the practice of Medical Laboratory Science in Nigeria, including the accreditation of medical laboratories.

Mr. Tosan said the EQA programme is part of the five-year strategic plan (2014-2018) of the council.

He said that the scheme has seen to an increase in panel menu from six to 250 in Nigeria and local production of the panels, which include HIV-serology dry tube samples, pregnancy test kit, malaria rapid test kit, malaria slides as well as TB slides.

He urged the minister to direct teaching hospitals and medical centres in Nigeria to key into the scheme to ensure the generation of reliable, accurate and cost-effective laboratory test results.

Responding, the minister hailed the initiative as a right step in the right direction.

We in the health sector are not relenting in our efforts to build the health system. Laboratory services is pertinent to what we are doing, so any initiative to improve the system is welcome, Mr. Ehanire said.

He noted that quality and accuracy in diagnosis will go a long way in improving patient care and curb healthcare spending in the country.

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The Police Special Fraud Unit, SFU, Lagos, on Sunday expressed concern over increasing number of Nigerians allegedly involved in using fake documents to seek Italian visa.

The spokesperson of the unit, Lawal Audu, disclosed this in Lagos on Sunday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.

He said the Italian Embassy sends an average of 50 Nigerian Passports with fake document to SFU monthly.

Mr. Audu noted that before now, Canada used to complain of such high numbers of fake documents, adding that attention had shifted to Italy now.

The Italian Embassy sent to SFU about 50 Nigerian Passports monthly with complaints of forged documents.

We have charged more than 15 persons to court for presenting fake document between January and May, 2017.

Documents the applicants always forged include bank statements, health insurance certificates, invitation letters from Italy, letters of introduction and letter of employment from multinational companies.

Italian Consulate normally checks all supporting document for any applicant. They are very meticulous in checking.

We have many passports with such complaints in large numbers.

Once any embassy or high commission discovers irregularities in any application, they request the applicant to come to SFU for clearance; many never came to us.

After waiting for some time, we go out to look for such applicants.

Many of the applicants used fake names and addresses. Even their mobile phone numbers are with fake names and addresses. Some phone numbers have babies names for registration, Mr. Audu noted.

The image maker said that a major challenge faced by the unit was difficulty in tracking applicants due to lack of national data for identity.

Mr. Audu said that two men, who allegedly specialised in forging visa payment slips and fake visa procurement, were arrested on Tuesday and Wednesday in Lagos Island.

He said that the suspects, aged 28 and 31 respectively, were arrested after a complaint by the American Embassy on the use of fake receipt to seek for their visa.

The suspects, who claimed to be working as online appointment agents to the American Embassy, are both single.

They allegedly specialise in manipulating visa payment receipts by using Corel Draw application in Microsoft Word to edit payment slip in order to use same for more than one applicant.

Trouble started for them when one applicant (name withheld) paid the sum of N60,000 into one of the suspects Account with GT Bank for appointment/visa fee for his son.

The suspect, instead of making payment upon receipt of the money, opted to buy already used payment receipt belonging to another applicant from the second suspect.

The first suspect paid N30, 000 to the second suspect who used Corel draw application to manipulate and made booking for their client.

The American Embassy noticed the irregularities and decided to invite the applicant, who then revealed the suspects, Mr. Audu said.

Similarly, a 34-year old single mother, was also arrested for allegedly using forged document to seek for visas to the UK, US and China.

Mr. Audu said that the woman, who had been refused visa to UK twice, allegedly procured fake document to appear before the American Consulate with Passport No. A0055907 containing fake UK visa and Heathrows Immigration stamp.

The suspect confessed that she employed the service of one Olawale, a document vendor in Ibadan, to procure fake UK, Chinese visas and departure/arrival stamps, including various African countries on her passport in order to give her previous travel history.

Members of the public should desist from patronising visa vendors as it can have adverse effect on their identities, which may affect them in future.

All cases are under investigation, suspects will be charged to court soon, Mr. Audu said.

(NAN)

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An Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has refused an application by a former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party, Olisa Metuh, for the suspension of his trial pending the determination of his appeal at the Supreme Court.

Mr. Metuh is facing trial on a seven-count charge of fraud brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

He is accused of receiving N400 million illegally from the office of the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, but has denied doing anything wrong.

Mr. Metuh is asking the apex court to set aside an earlier decision of the high court which ordered the defendant to open his defence.

He also asked the Supreme Court to suspend his ongoing trial at the lower court, pending the determination of his substantive appeal, but the application was refused on June 10.

The apex court in a ruling on the matter asked Mr. Metuh to continue his trial while the ongoing appeal subsists.

Mr. Metuh had asked that his trial be suspended, also at the lower court; pending the determination of the ongoing application at the apex court.

In a short ruling however, the presiding judge, Okon Abang, said the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, ACJA does not encourage such an adjournment.

The court noted that Mr. Metuhs application amounted to a stay of the matter and therefore is not in line with constitutional provisions.

The case was adjourned till Tuesday.

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A student of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, has died after drowning in a swimming pool at a hotel in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

The 300-level Pharmacy student, identified as Fatile Emmanuel, and two of his friends, reportedly visited the Hilton hotel on Sunday to swim.

A fellow student of the department, Farombi Oluwaseun, confirmed the death to PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr. Oluwaseun, the Public Relations Officer of Pharmaceutical Students Association, said he was called by one Dr Akinwale of the universitys teaching hospital to identify the deceased after his body was recovered and taken to the hospital.

Police officers from Moore Divisional Unit in the town have since arrested the two other students who were with the deceased as well as an official of the hotel.

There were rumours among students that the deceased died due to the absence of a life jacket and that he was murdered.

The police have, however, not released any statement on the death. Officials of the hotel also refused to talk to PREMIUM TIMES during a visit there.

The university is yet to react to the death, and its spokesperson, Olarewaju Abiodun, could not be reached on his mobile number.

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Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday swore into office Hakeem Dickson, a fugitive convicted of fraud in the United States, as Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission.

Also sworn in were Gabriel Babawale and Noah Olanrewaju Lawal-Jinadu as Commissioners of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC); Bolaji Are, Iyabo Ladipo and Ayo Adebusoye for the Public Procurement Agency; and Jokotola Ojosipe-Ogundimu for Audit Service Commission.

The governor also swore in members of the states Public Procurement Agency, Audit Service Commission, Director-General of the States Safety Commission and also inaugurated members of the State Science and Innovation Council.

Mr. Dickson, an ally of the governor, was sworn in despite fleeing a 24-month jail term in the U.S. after being convicted for credit card fraud.

According to Judge Dickinson Debevoise of a U.S. District Court, Mr. Dickson has not served the sentence handed to him since June 1992.

For 20 years, Defendant (Mr. Dickson) successfully evaded all United States government efforts to locate and arrest him, the judge said.

But Mr. Dickson had repeatedly claimed he had served 17 months out of the 24 in a Lagos prison after he was arrested by Nigerian security officials upon his return to the country in 1992.

A PREMIUM TIMES fact-check found the claim to be false.

A Lagos State House of Assembly spokesperson, Tunde Braimoh, had told PREMIUM TIMES last April, when the lawmakers confirmed Mr. Dicksons appointment by the governor, that theHouse did not receive any petition or complaint against the nominee.

While he was swearing in Mr. Dickosn and the others into office on Monday, Governor Ambode said their appointments were strictly informed by the track record of achievements, integrity and credibility of the members.

Noting that the ceremony was in compliance with the relevant laws establishing the agencies, the governor urged the members to see their appointment as an invitation and a privilege to be part of the future prosperity of the state.

Your appointment is a call to public service and I am very confident that you will justify the trust the government has reposed in your ability and capacity to add value to the corporate governance, growth and development of the state, Mr. Ambode said.

Let me also add that your appointment is an invitation and a privilege to be part of history as we lay a solid foundation for the future of Lagos, a Lagos that our children and their children will enjoy for many years to come.

He said the appointment of Messrs. Babawale and Lawal-Jinadu to the Board of LASIEC was necessitated by the exit of two members of the commission who had completed their second term, adding that the provision of the law setting up the commission requires that the board be constituted by the chairman and six members.

With this appointment therefore, LASIEC is properly constituted to conduct the forthcoming Local Government elections in the state, the governor said.

Mr. Ambode also commended the chairman and members of the commission for their efforts so far to ensure that the July 22 local government elections are free, fair and credible.

He said the Public Procurement Agency and Audit Service Commission are two key agencies established mainly to ensure transparency and accountability in the procurement process as well as the management and application of public resources, urging the newly appointees to bring their professionalism to bear to deepen the application of these principles to ensure that the tax-paying public get full value for their money.

He also charged the Director-General of the State Safety Commission, Mr. Dickson, to show leadership and deliver on the mandate of the commission to prepare and adequately handle emergency situations through continuous public education and enlightenment as well as enforcement of safety precautions and rules.

In his vote of assurance, Mr. Babawale, who responded on behalf of the appointees, thanked the governor for their appointments, assuring him that he and his colleagues would key into his vision to make Lagos a smart city.

We would cherish it very seriously and deliver on our mandate. This is a call to duty and we are prepared for the task, Mr. Babawale said.

Governor Ambode, while also inaugurating the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council chaired by Deputy Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos, Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, urged members of the council to bring their wealth of experience to bear on the efforts of the state government to harness the full potentials of scientific research in developing solutions to challenges facing the state.

While noting that there was hardly any area of human endeavour that had not been positively affected by science in the 21st century, Governor Ambode said application of scientific innovation remained the key to achieving efficiency, effectiveness and accelerated development in a knowledge  driven economy.

The terms of reference of the council, among others, are to manage the science research and innovation fund which would be applied towards funding research that have the potentials to directly benefit the citizenry in terms of job and wealth creation.

The council will also be responsible for promoting research and innovation activities in public and private institutions and identify all research and innovation products that are bankable and translate such to commercial activities with a view to establishing small and medium scale industries, as well as promote science education by organising various scientific activities that will encourage the teaching and learning of science subjects in all public schools in the State.

Other members of the council are Adenike Fajemirokun, Akeem Adeniji-Adele, Oladokun Oye, Frank Ojadi, Martins Aneiekhai and Sikiru Adegoke. Others representing Lagos State in the council are Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Olawale Oluwo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Olufunmilayo Balogun; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Adesina Odeyemi.

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The Nigerian government on Monday arraigned eight Boko Haram suspects for the killing of five foreigners who were abducted from a construction site in Kebbi State in 2011.

The suspects are also accused of culpability in the murder of seven other foreigners in Borno State. The seven were abducted from another construction site in Bauchi State in February 2013, and taken to the Sambisa forest.

The seven other victims, namely: Carlos Bou Azziz, Brendan Vaughan, Silvano Trevisan, Konstantinos Karras, Ghaida Yaser Saad (F), Julio Ibrahim El-Khouli and Imad El-Andari, were allegedly abducted on February 18, 2013 and taken to Sambisa forest where they were kept for 10 days before being murdered.

Seven suspects were earlier arraigned in March on an 11-count charge for the same offence, but the court freed one of the suspects, Abubakar Usman, on June 6 after the prosecution withdrew its charges against him.

The prosecution, from the State Security Service, had amended the charges, after withdrawing its case against Mr. Usman, to include two others accused of culpability in the crime.

The two new defendants are Mohammed Sani and Abubakar Abdulrahman.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the amended charges.

The presiding judge, John Tsoho, ordered the new defendants to join the others in the custody of the SSS and adjourned the case to October 3.

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The Nigeria Police Force said it had arrested eight suspected kidnappers of five students of Ahmadu Bello University, and Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, both in Zaria, Kaduna State.

The Force Spokesman, Jimoh Moshood, disclosed this at a news conference

in Abuja on Monday.

He said the suspects were Adamu Mamman, 35, alias master, the gang leader; Ali Rabo, 27, alias blacky, second in command; Shehu Shagari, 27, third in command; and Umar Antijo, 27, informant to the gang.

Others were Auwalu Ahmadu, 27, alias mota; Babangida Abdullahi, 31, receiver of stolen items; Usman Abdulmumuni, 27, receiver; and Ahmadu Abdullahi, 30, also a receiver.

Mr. Moshood said the suspects were also responsible for the abduction of the driver to the chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs.

He added that items recovered from them were three cell phones, four SIM cards, N17,000, cutlasses and two pairs of army uniforms.

The police spokesperson explained that the suspects, who were arrested at different locations, had confessed and stated their roles in the kidnap for ransom on the Kaduna/Abuja highway.

He said many of the rescued victims had also identified the suspects and investigation was ongoing to also know the source of the army camouflage the suspects had.

He pointed out that the arrest followed massive deployment of Special Intervention Forces (SIF) on the highway by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris.

He said the suspects would be charged to court on completion of investigation, while efforts would be made to sustain the success recorded.

Mr. Moshood urged the public to continue to cooperate and give useful information to the police to prevent crime in the country.

The Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, had on June 14, deployed 600 special squad and 90 patrol vehicles to the Abuja-Kaduna road following rampant cases of kidnapping on that route.

(NAN)

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The lifeless body of a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ondo State, Olamide Odimayo, who was kidnapped last week, has been found floating on the coastal waters of Ese-Odo.

The Ondo Police while confirming the incident on Monday, said the search for the abducted politician had continued since June 15, with the arrest of eight suspects.

The commands Public Relations Officer, Femi Joseph, told PREMIUM TIMES that the body of the victim was found just when it appeared that his rescue was near following the arrest of suspected members of the kidnap gang.

Mr. Odimayo was reportedly kidnapped by the gunmen on Thursday at his home in Igbotu town in Ese Odo Local Government Area of the state.

Mr. Joseph said the suspects had led the police to the hideout, but only the lifeless body was found floating at Ogolo River, between Sabomi and Igbotu towns in Ese-Odo.

We have been searching since on the 15 and we arrested some suspects in connection with the kidnap, he said.

One of the suspects who took our men to the hideout claimed he was the one who took the victim to the hideout.

He said during the course of transporting him to the place, the victim fell into the water and perhaps because he could not swim, died.

There were however reports from Igbotu town that youth in the area chased the kidnappers on the day they abducted Mr. Odumayo, caught one of them and killed him.

Sources said the kidnappers might have killed their victim in retaliation for the death of their member.

Meanwhile, the APC in Ondo has condemned the killing, saying kidnappers should now be made to pay the supreme price for their acts.

The spokesperson for the party, Anayomi Adesanya, told PREMIUM TIMES the death of Mr. Odimayo was saddening, having left his diaspora abode in the UK to come home to be part of the development of the country.

He was a party stalwart and dedicated party man who was concerned about the development of the country, he said.

I think it is time we have laws against kidnapping in the state stipulating capital punishment for the act.

We cannot continue to allow this to go on, kidnappers should pay the supreme price for their actions.

Mr. Odimayo was the candidate of the APC for the last Ondo House of Assembly elections for the Ese-Odo State constituency, an election he lost to the PDP.

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David Misal, the Police Public Relations Officer in the Taraba Command, who confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, said law and order had been restored in the areas following the deployment of police and soldiers.

The police spokesperson said two persons were confirmed dead, while several others who sustained injuries were receiving treatment in hospitals in the area.

According to him, the police have made some arrests in connection with the crisis.

Meanwhile, a source in the area told NAN that those injured in the attacks were taken to Gembu, Serti and Jalingo for treatment, while some victims had fled to neighbouring Gashaka, Bali, Gembu and Cameroon Republic.

The source said the Mambilla militia and youth attack was an alleged transfer of aggression against Fulani, following arrest of a Mambilla man by security agents for alleged breach of peace.

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A Federal High Court, Abuja on June 19, 2017 admitted in evidence six volumes of documents tendered in evidence by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against a former governor of Adamawa State, Murtala Nyako.

Mr. Nyako along with his son, Abdul-Aziz Nyako, Abubakar Aliyu and Zulkifikk Abba, are standing trial before Justice Okon Abang, on a 37-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, stealing, abuse of office and money laundering to the tune of N29 billion.

Five companies that allegedly served as conduit pipes for the illegal diversion of the funds  Blue Opal Limited, Sebore Farms & Extension Limited, Pagoda Fortunes Limited, Tower Assets Management Limited and Crust Energy Limited, were equally charged before the court.

The documents, which comprised of payment vouchers from the Office of the Secretary to the Adamawa State Government, were tendered through the states Chief Executive Officer, Accounts, Adamu Yahaya.

Mr. Yahaya, who is the tenth prosecution witness, had on May 17, 2017 told the court that he took records of payments made on the approval of the governor and reported the same to the office of the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, between 2008 and 2014.

The bundle of documents showing copies of payment vouchers from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 were tendered and admitted in evidence as exhibits.

The matter was afterwards adjourned to June 20 for continuation of trial.

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The Kogi State government on Monday confirmed that it was recruiting additional 230 medical doctors, but rejected suggestions that the new officers would replace their 163 colleagues currently on strike.

Yes, we are recruiting new doctors, but we wont sack those already in the system just because they are on strike.

We have only 163 doctors; that is certainly not enough for Kogi. That is why we are recruiting more hands, health commissioner Saka Audu told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Lokoja.

Mr. Audu said that it was misleading, mischievous, erroneous and unkind to suggest that government would sack the medical personnel and replace them with new ones.

It is not only doctors that are being recruited; we are also engaging pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, pharmacy technicians, nurses, health record officers and medical laboratory assistants, he said.

Mr. Audu reaffirmed governments commitment to continue to negotiate with the NMA toward resolving the impasse between the association and the government.

The Kogi chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, had accused the Kogi government of taking steps to engage new hands before sacking its members.

The NMA, in a statement signed by its chairman, Godwin Tijani, alleged that government had concluded plans to recruit a new set of medical doctors to replace those on strike, starting from June 19.

Mr. Tijani explained, however, that the NMA was not against the recruitment of doctors.

We have not advised doctors against taking up jobs with the Kogi government.

We have only advised government on the timing of the exercise and the motives, because the recruitment is coming at a time doctors are on strike over salaries and other entitlements.

We are only notifying our colleagues to prepare for massive sacrifices, he said.

He said that the NMA was open to dialogue aimed at solving the current industrial disharmony in the health sector so as to bring succour to the suffering masses.

The NMA, on June 5, directed its members to resume the strike they had suspended on May 13, citing governments failure to fulfil its promises to meet doctors demands.

(NAN)

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A baboon that escaped at the Wildlife Park in Jos early Monday morning is still within the vicinity of the park, the Plateau State government has assured residents.

According to the states Commissioner of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality, Peter Mwadkon, the beast only escaped from its cage and resisted efforts by officials to return it inside.

Speaking with journalists in Jos, Mr. Mwadkon said he was not aware anyone was injured in the incident.

No one has told me of the baboon injuring anybody, the commissioner stated.

The staff of the park have been trying hard to put it back into its cage, the animal is not at large as it has been speculated.

He did not state whether the officials had managed to return the beast into its home.

The spokesperson of the special taskforce on Jos crisis, Umar Adam, and the police spokesperson in the state, Terna Tyopev, both said their attention had not been drawn to the incident, indicating that the development was not considered to have serious security implication.

A witness had earlier told PREMIUM TIMES that the animal injured a soldier who was on security duty at the gate of the park.

According to a source, there has been insufficient food supply for the animals in recent times.

As a result of the incident, there has been anxiety among residents around the park since morning, with the park receiving no visitor throughout Monday.

It will be recalled that a lion had last year escaped from the same park, and was eventually shot dead by a soldier, drawing wide condemnation from Nigerians.

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The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court on Monday granted bail to former Benue State governor, Gabriel Suswam, and two others accused of fraud, with a bond of N250 million each.

The presiding judge, Gabriel Kolawole, also ordered the defendants to produce one surety each in like sum. The sureties are to provide recent passports of themselves, to be identified by the deputy chief registrar in charge of litigation, after which they will swear an affidavit confirming that they have met the bail conditions before the suspects can be allowed bail.

Mr. Suswam is facing a fresh 32-count charge brought against him by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

He is accused alongside two others: a former finance commissioner in the state, Omadachi Oklobia, and a former accountant of the Benue State government house, Janet Aluga.

The defendants are accused of diverting N9.9 billion from funds belonging to the Benue State Subsidy Reinvestment Programme, among others.

They pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Earlier, the prosecution counsel, Aminu Alilu, prayed the court to transfer the case to Benue State, saying that the crisis in the state had subsided.

Responding however, the counsel representing the first and second defendant, Tawo Tawo, and the lawyer for the third defendant, Innocent Daagba, objected to the application, saying the situation in Benue State is still quite tense.

Peace has not returned to Benue State. We are objecting to the application. If this matter is returned to Benue State, there will be a lot of chaos. We do not want a situation where innocent blood will be spilled. It is better that the matter be heard here, said Mr. Tawo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

Mr. Tawo further said the first defendant as a former governor of Benue State has his followers, while the incumbent governor also has his own followers, hence the possibility of the matter degenerating was high if the case is treated in Benue State.

Mr. Daagba agreed with the argument put forward by Mr. Tawo.

In his final submission, Mr. Alilu urged the court to demand an undertaking from the defendants counsel that the matter will not be considered for transfer to Benue State at a later time.

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The police on Monday assured the public, especially parents of the kidnapped students of Lagos State Model College, Igbonla-Epe, that all hands were on deck to ensure the safe return of their wards.

Speaking to Government House correspondents after a meeting with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at Lagos House in Ikeja, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, in charge of Zone 2 comprising Lagos and Ogun states, Adamu Ibrahim, said security agencies were working tirelessly to ensure the return of the students and reunite them with their families.

In fact, very soon, you will hear good news on the issue, Mr. Ibrahim said.

We are working seriously on it. At this stage, I will not want to disclose too much because these are security issues, but all I want to say is that people should give us a chance and very soon, they will hear good news.

Six students of the college were kidnapped in the early hours of May 25 after gunmen, who arrived through a creek behind the school, broke through the schools fence to gain access into the compound.

One week later, the police announced they had arrested three suspects in connection with the kidnap.

But the students are yet to be reunited with their families, prompting the parents to accuse the state government of abandoning them to their plight.

Mr. Ibrahim, however, vowed that the police in Lagos and Ogun Commands were battle ready and have been alerted to make the zone too hot for criminal elements to carry out their nefarious activities, adding that the police would build on the success of the arrest of the alleged notorious kidnap kingpin, Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, otherwise known as Evans, and hunt down other criminal elements.

Security measures are not discussed publicly but what I will tell you is that we are taking all necessary measures to ensure that Lagos is free of crime and criminals. We will rid all these criminals out of this zone, he noted.

So, I will like to send a word to criminals to leave Zone 2 otherwise we will not relent until the zone is completely rid of all these criminals.

You are aware Evans has already been arrested and he is the most wanted criminal who is into kidnapping. Others too, if they dont leave this zone, they will also be arrested, Mr. Ibrahim vowed.

The police boss also commended the Lagos State government, especially Governor Ambode for efforts at improving the security architecture in the state.

People are in fact aware of what the Lagos State Government is doing on security and no other state is doing it. So, all efforts are on to ensure that there is total peace in the state. Lagos is doing perfectly well in assisting security agencies to do their work in the state and we must commend their efforts.

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President Andrzej Duda

President Andrzej Duda paid tribute to the late former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, stressing the latter always made sure Polish-German relations were characterized by mutual understanding and respect.

Writing in his message of condolence, the President pointed out that Chancellor Kohl opened a new chapter in Polish-German relations. "This will always be symbolized by a gesture of reconciliation, the brotherly handshake between the German Chancellor and the Polish Prime Minister during a holy mass at Krzyzowa on November 12th 1989", Andrzej Duda wrote,

"Helmut Kohl was also instrumental in the signing of the 1991 Treaty of Good Neighbourship and Friendly Cooperation, a foundation of the Polish-German relations", the President added.

Andrzej Duda emphasized that trust and understanding between Poland and Germany, as envisaged by Helmut Kohl, was of strategic importance to the whole of Europe. The President also pointed out that the late former German chancellor supported the accession of East-Central European countries to the European Union, as necessary for true European unity.

"He received Polands main state medal, the White Eagle, and will always be remembered as a remarkable man, a witness and co-creator of the modern history of Europe", the President concluded.

Helmut Kohl, the former chancellor of Germany, died on Friday morning in his home in Ludwigshafen, aged 87. (PAP)
The U.S. has called off its search for seven missing sailors after finding bodies in the sleeping compartments of the USS Fitzgerald, the Navy destroyer that collided with a massive merchant vessel off the coast of Japan early Saturday.

"The search and rescue is over," U.S. 7th Fleet commander Vice Admiral Joseph Aucoin told reporters Sunday. U.S. authorities tacitly acknowledged there were no survivors, although Aucoin declined to say how many bodies had been recovered until relatives of the dead sailors are notified.

Aucoin said that sea water gushed into sleeping compartments and that part of the ship's right side was caved in. "The damage was significant. There was a big gash under the water," Aucoin said at the Yokosuka naval base, home of the U.S. 7th Fleet. He spoke with the docked Fitzgerald behind him, after tugboats towed it ashore in the hours after the collision 104 kilometers southwest of Yokosuka, in a busy shipping channel.

He said "a significant portion of the crew was sleeping" when the destroyer collided with a Philippine-flagged container ship, the ACX Crystal. Aucoin said the Fitzgerald is salvageable but that repairs will likely take months. "Hopefully less than a year," Aucoin said. "You will see the USS Fitzgerald back."

There was no immediate explanation for the collision. Aucoin said, "I'm not going to speculate on what happened... Hopefully we'll get those answers, but I don't have them right now."
LINWOOD  Kim Pack, the daughter of slain radio host April Kauffman, said she was still processing the news.

She had gone jogging early Tuesday and left her phone at home. When she returned, she had several phone messages, including one from the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office saying they were executing a search warrant at the offices of her mothers husband, Dr. James Kauffman.

They did not elaborate. They did not say whether the charges were related to my moms case or if it was something else, Pack said. I have been finding things out through the media all day.

Prosecutors Office investigators and Linwood and Egg Harbor Township police arrested Kauffman and charged him with weapons offenses after he brandished a gun and threatened authorities as they attempted to execute a search warrant at his offices on Ocean Heights Avenue, authorities said.

A tense standoff followed, until a negotiator talked Kauffman into surrendering 45 minutes later, authorities said.

The search warrants were not connected to the May 10, 2012, homicide of April Kauffman, who was found fatally shot in the bedroom of the couples Linwood home, but were part of a larger investigation, Prosecutor Damon Tyner said.

For Pack, the news of the search and the arrest was overwhelming.

There is really a flood of emotions today; so much to process, really and to come to terms with and put it into prospective, Pack said. She spoke candidly Tuesday about the arrest of James Kauffman earlier in the day.

Asked if she is hopeful her mothers case might be closer to being solved, Pack said she has complete confidence in the law enforcement community to continue working to do the things they need to do to bring this case to a conclusion.

She is fighting Kauffman in court over his attempts to collect on a life insurance policy. In legal papers, Packs attorneys have said James Kauffman is responsible for April Kauffmans death.

On Tuesday, Pack said she feels the love and support of her friends and the entire communities, adding that people she speaks with let her know they are supporting her and her family throughout this ordeal.

Reaction in the community was everywhere, but strongest along the citys popular bike path, where someone left several yellow roses on April Kauffmans memorial bench, Pack said. Yellow roses were special to her mother, she said.

Catherine McPhillips, of Philadelphia, was visiting her daughter. She did not know Kauffman personally, but said she had a sense of her from the stories she had read.

From what I have read, April Kauffman has done so many generous and meaningful things for the veterans community. Her death is a real loss to so many. I hope they are closer in bringing justice for April and for her family.

Jogging down the bike path past the police cars, news cameras and helicopters hovering overhead, Kate Weatherall, of Linwood, said she hopes the investigation leads to closure for the family.

I just hope that something comes out of it. She is such a community activist; it would be nice for the family to have closure, Weatherall said.

Rob Waggenheim sat with his dog Stella on April Kauffmans memorial bench along the bike path with interest. I want to see justice for April, but lets see where this investigation goes, he said.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  One man died and medical calls soared at the venue that hosted the Electric Daisy Carnival outside Las Vegas over the weekend, when a heat wave bringing triple-digit temperatures began to move through the area, officials said Monday. Authorities have not yet determined the man's cause of death.

Nearly 1,100 people sought medical help during the three days of the largest music festival in North America, which began Friday evening at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, southern Nevada officials said. One reported fatality at the venue occurred Saturday morning after the first night of the event had wrapped up.

Festival organizer Insomniac Events reported that 135,000 attendees on average partied from sundown to sunrise Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The event featured more than 230 musicians performing on elaborate stages amid a carnival-like setting of rides and pyrotechnic displays.

The coroner's office in Clark County identified the man who died Saturday as 34-year-old Michael Adam Morse. His cause and manner of death have not been determined. The coroner's office could not immediately provide his hometown.

Police said Morse's death occurred outside the festival's operating hours of 7 p.m. to about 5:30 a.m. and is not being investigated as a crime.

Most of the 1,090 people who received medical assistance were treated at the site, but 15 ticket-holders and one employee were taken to the hospital. Lastyear, 617 people were treated at the venue, and 17 were hospitalized.

Police did not provide details on the reasons why people sought treatment. Insomniac Events did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the nature of the medical assistance sought by festivalgoers.

The National Weather Service put midnight temperatures at 89 degrees Friday, 92 degrees Saturday and 97 degrees Sunday.

"It was definitely warmer this year overnight, specially last night," meteorologist Ashley Allen said Monday.

Police said 95 people were arrested for felonies during the event, most for offenses involving drugs. Organizers reported 282 people were ejected from the festival.
Only a handful of people can describe the view from the Miss America stage in Atlantic Citys famous Boardwalk Hall. Author Michael Callahan is one of them.

Walk the runway, Callahan said, recalling his own experience when he was a first-time Miss America reporter. Its kind of a bucket list thing.

When I got to the end and saw all the empty seats, I thought, Wow, this must be the head rush of a lifetime, and it got me really interested in a way that I wasnt before.

Beginning his career in 1987 reporting on the annual scholarship competition for Atlantic City Magazine and continuing for several years, Callahan took the knowledge he stored about pageant winners and stories and wrote his second novel, The Night She Won Miss America.

The book is a work of fiction set during the 1950 pageant but inspired by Miss America 1937, Miss New Jersey Bette Cooper, who reluctantly entered the pageant and infamously ran off after taking the crown, disappearing for about 24 hours, saying she was overwhelmed by the responsibility.

I always thought if I ever wrote fiction, this would be a great novel, Callahan said. You know, what if she didnt just go home, but what if they took off, like Romeo and Juliet or Bonnie and Clyde?

Callahan, who spends his time between Philadelphia and Ocean City, calls himself a nostalgic and seems to have a fascination with the pageant and past culture, as most from the South Jersey area do.

Describing a time when people dressed for the Boardwalk and dined at candlelit supper clubs, Callahan said he believes theres a local yearning for old-school cool.

I think, in America, we dont have that many great traditions, because were not an old country. We dont have royalty, either, Callahan said of the pageant. Is it a little past its prime? Probably, but its fun.

His research was done through the Atlantic City Library and the Atlantic City Cultural Museum, as well as his local connections, to get the details about the mid-century Atlantic City just right.

I wanted to set my pageant in 1949 for a very specific reason, Callahan said. Starting in 1950, they started post-dating the title. If you won in 1950, you were Miss America 1951, so technically there is no Miss America 1950, so I decided to slot my character in there.

Adding some of his own experience into the story, Callahan came up with the character Eddie Tate, an Atlantic City Press reporter, who at first is just another reporter, writing about every step, word and wave of the pageant contestants.

Though looking back to his days as a Miss America reporter gave him fond memories, Callahan has no plan to author more stories about the pageant.

His book, while a tribute to the glory days of Eisenhower-era pageantry, has not received any nods from the Miss America Organization.

Id be really curious to hear what they thought, Callahan said. I certainly hope they see it as the Valentine to Miss America that I intended.

Callahan, who lives in Philadelphia, said he plans to hold a book event in September during the preliminary competitions in Atlantic City.

He also wrote Searching for Grace Kelly and is a contributing editor at Vanity Fair magazine.
The state monitor for the Pleasantville School District overstepped her authority when she refused to approve the school boards choice of Clarence Alston as its new superintendent, Atlantic County Superior Court Judge Julio Mendez has ruled.

The attorney for state monitor Constance Bauer had argued the law gives the monitor the power to oversee all school staffing.

But in a decision issued Friday, Mendez said state law specifically requires that a monitors decisions must be grounded in fiscal reasoning. It says Bauers decision was woefully lacking of any fiscal rationale.

Mendez specifically noted the law allowing for school monitors, the School District Fiscal Accountability Act, is different from the commonly called Takeover Act, under which the school board would cede all authority to a state monitor.

The decision marks a more than year-long conflict between school board members and the state monitor.

The board had attempted to hire Alston in May 2016, but only got four affirmative votes. The board voted again in August, and was able to get a five-vote majority for Alston, but the state monitor refused to approve him.

In a June 2016 memo to the board, Bauer said she did not believe he is well suited to fit the needs of the Pleasantville School District.

Instead, she appointed retired Wildwood Superintendent Dennis Anderson as interim superintendent.

The board last week approved Anderson as interim for another year, with a provision that allows for a 30-day exit clause if a permanent superintendent is named.

Alston had served as interim and then permanent superintendent in the district from 2006 to 2009, when his contract was not renewed by the districts state monitor at that time, John Deserable, according to The Press of Atlantic City archives.

Alstons attorney, David Castellani, said he will be in touch with the districts attorney about obtaining a contract for Alston. He will also file to get Alston back pay for the last school year, plus reimbursement for legal costs. Alston also still has a discrimination complaint against the district and state monitor because of the monitors actions.

It is ironic that the reason (the state) appoints a fiscal monitor is to save money, but now she is costing them money, Castellani said.

Dan Gallagher, who represented the school board, said he would meet with members to discuss the decision and what action to take. He said one concern is who will pay the costs resulting from the decision.

He said under the law, the district pays the state monitor and her attorney, but he knows school board members will have questions about why they should have to pay for the monitors actions.

Bauers attorney, Sidney Sayovitz, could not be reached for comment. A state Department of Education spokesman said they do not comment on litigation.

Mendez also ruled that Alston did not have to first exhaust all administrative remedies to his complaint before going to court because the appointment of a superintendent is undoubtedly a matter of great importance to the community of Pleasantville, which in this courts opinion, greatly benefits from a resolution by the court.
LINWOOD  Who killed April Kauffman? If authorities have a lead, they havent said so in five years. The mystery has haunted her family and friends and caused rampant speculation in the quiet city.

Dr. James Kauffman, 68, has never been named a suspect in the killing of his wife, but that has not stopped suspicion.

Now, Kauffmans arrest on charges of brandishing a handgun as local and federal investigators executed a search warrant at his medical office Tuesday has reignited those suspicions in this small, white-collar city.

Kauffmans attorney, Ed Jacobs, who has maintained his clients innocence, did not respond to a request for comment for this report.

Kauffmans arrest last week was not related to his wifes killing, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner said. But that, and an earlier request by the Prosecutors Office for a DNA sample from Kauffman, has only fueled talk, while putting an intense focus on the investigation, the city and the unsolved homicide.

People dont go around killing their wives in this area. Its not normal, Sylvia Baker said Thursday outside Linwood Greene Plaza.

Baker, who grew up in Linwood but now lives in Egg Harbor Township, was critical of Kauffmans alleged actions earlier this week.

Who meets law enforcement with a gun? she said. I think its finally waking people up that we need an answer.

Linwood has about 7,000 residents and a median household income of $82,000. Charming homes are situated along the tree-lined streets. Children are often seen riding bikes, and residents frequent the many locally owned shops and restaurants.

Some people make some very radical and strange comments, said Lee Darby, who was a close friend of April Kauffman. Everybody has an opinion and everybodys entitled to it.

Brigantine resident Michele OConnell, who works in Linwood, said she has been following the case, and the fact that it has remained unsolved so long has been stressful on the community.

I think that theres people on both sides of what they think happened. And I think that thats been difficult for the town. I think theres a lot of strong opinions, OConnell said.

Resident David Sparenberg said Linwood is a quiet community.

I only hope that theres an end in sight and that, whichever way it ends, it ends lawfully and for the benefit of Dr. Kauffman and his stepdaughter (Kim Pack), Sparenberg said.

On the morning of May 10, 2012, when Aprils slaying was discovered, Darby said it was Dr. Kauffman who called her to break the news. Darby was in disbelief and immediately went to the house, which was surrounded by police and news media.

She had flashbacks to that scene Tuesday, when Kauffman was arrested.

The Kauffmans massive home sits in a cul de sac at the end of Woodstock Drive. Once an immaculately manicured property, the shrubs are now overgrown and trash litters the lawn. James Kauffman owned the home before he met April.

The Kauffmans were avid gun collectors, reportedly owning about 100 guns. They also went out frequently, Darby said. About a year after Aprils killing, James Kauffman married Carol Weintraub, and the two own an apartment in Philadelphia, although he still owns the Linwood home.

At the other end of the street is the well-traversed Linwood bike path, where a bench and a tree are now dedicated in Aprils honor.

On Thursday, Darby sat carefully on Aprils bench and talked about her longtime friend, sometimes holding back tears as she remembered Kauffmans dedication to the community, selfless attitude and fun-loving spirit.

We raised our daughters together, we traveled together, Darby said of the friendship that began in the 1980s.

April Kauffman, who was 47 when she died, was most well known in the area as a strong advocate for veterans. She was also a radio host, a business owner and a voracious volunteer.

Kauffman had a loud personality, Darby said. She drove a red convertible and had Barbie-blonde hair. Kauffman never shied away from talking to strangers, and Darby said she would make friends wherever she went.

A lot of people felt a closeness with April, and they should, because April loved everybody. She made you feel like you were her best friend, Darby said. I envied that beautiful heart of hers.

April Kauffmans death soon became regional, statewide, then national news when it was featured on the Americas Most Wanted website, which is now defunct.

The Linwood Police Department declined to comment on the impact of the killing on the small community. Mayor Rick DePamphilis and Council President Tim Tighe could not be reached for comment.

The effects of a unexplained or controversial death can have a lasting impact on a community. Mike Voll is the former mayor of Middle Township and recalls a similar case that rocked his small town in the 1990s.

Now a successful and popular dentist in Cape May Court House, Eric Thomas was in the center of scandal in 1997 when his pregnant wife died after her vehicle crashed into a utility pole. The medical examiner said Tracy Thomas death was accidental, but when Thomas tried to sue Ford Motor Co. over the airbag, the company attempted to implicate Thomas in a murder plot. There were accusations of lies and of affairs, and eventually both cases were dropped. However, the dramatic story became fodder for a Lawrence Schiller book, Cape May Court House.

There was a lot of talk. A lot of speculation, a lot of accusations, a lot of hearsay and, of course, as mayor, I had to listen to all of it. I always left it up to the Police Department and the Prosecutors Office (to) come to a conclusion, Voll said.

He said the case put the community in the spotlight, but eventually the light dimmed and things got back to normal.

Life goes on and Dr. Thomas is a successful practicing dentist in Cape May Court House. So everybody can have their own opinion. I relied on law enforcement and the judicial system for their conclusion, and thats where I left it, Voll said.

Rocco Cipparone, a criminal defense attorney and former federal prosecutor in Haddon Heights, said speculation is normal but should never drive an investigation. He said having a suspect helps the community heal.

Solving a crime always brings a measure of comfort to a community, he said.

Darby, who helps run a website and Facebook page dedicated to April Kauffman, said attempting to try the case in the media is unfair. But she is hopeful for a resolution so that she, and the community, can move on.

It never goes away. It never leaves. It just haunts you all day long, Darby said.
When you live on a barrier island, like most readers of The Press of Atlantic City do, flooding can be a big issue.

Public Eye has reported on back bay flooding causing homes to fall into disrepair and also a drainage problem that has occurred annually in Somers Point.

But a late May storm, coupled with a new moon and an annual spawning season, created an interesting problem in Ocean City.

The problem: A resident of the north end of the island wrote to the Public Eye about coastal flooding during a May 25 rainstorm that pushed water  and some wildlife  into the streets.

The Third Street resident said as water rushed into the streets, so did dozens of horseshoe crabs.

The resident said the issue is the lack of a bulkhead, and he put the task on the city to stop the flooding.

The solution: Ocean City is well aware of problems with bulkheads and bay flooding, so much so that a representative for the city was quick to send me answers about bulkheads and city projects.

Doug Bergen, who works for City Administration and Community Services, said Ocean City is expected go out to bid this summer on an estimated $8.7 million road and drainage project for a 30-block area, including Third Street and Bay Avenue. Partially funded by a FEMA grant, the north end project is just one part of a larger $40 million road and drainage project planned for the next five years.

The next step: Bergen said a bulkhead replacement on Third Street is a part of the project. The consistent flooding of the area may be due to privately owned commercial properties on the block that do not have bulkheads.

Because of a city ordinance protecting existing structures, the properties are in compliance, but Bergen said one property is being redeveloped and will be required to have a bulkhead, which should ease flooding.

The late May flooding was predicted by The Press Meteorolgist Dan Skeldon, who also warned of higher tides due to a new moon.

As for the horseshoe crabs, Public Works was seen clearing the streets of the arthropods.

Late May happens to be horseshoe crab mating season, so the population was a little larger in that time of year.
AVALON  U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo, R-2nd, called a move by the Trump administration to conduct seismic testing in the Atlantic Ocean barbaric and insane during a press conference Monday.

Seismic air guns are used to find gas and oil pockets deep beneath the ocean floor. President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order in April aimed at expanding offshore drilling near the East Coast, and, earlier this month, five companies applied to conduct seismic testing  including in an area just south of Cape May.

Environmentalists, local politicians and tourism officials gathered Monday afternoon near the 30th Street beach in Avalon to signal their opposition to seismic testing and offshore drilling.

We in Cape May County have a $6.3 billion tourism business, Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton said. Now I want you to imagine an oil spill out there today, with this wind blowing on the beach.

We cant afford that, ladies and gentlemen, he added.

During seismic testing, air is blasted into the ocean floor every 10 seconds for an extended period of time. LoBiondo said he attended an air-gun demonstration last year.

The decibel level for this seismic air gun is up to 250 decibels. LoBiondo said. That would blow a human ear out.

Industry groups say seismic surveys have been conducted in the United States and around the world for decades, with little adverse impacts. The National Marine Fisheries Service, or NMFS, the agency seeking the seismic testing permits, has said that air-gun operations would include measures to monitor and mitigate any harm to marine mammals.

Environmental groups say the testing would hurt fish and other marine life, and LoBiondo also suggested it would harm South Jerseys fishing industry.

Theyre really defenseless against that noise, said Cindy Zipf, executive director of the North Jersey-based group Clean Ocean Action. It would be like a war zone for marine life.

The oil and gas industry has pushed for the seismic testing plan, which would map potential drilling sites from Delaware to central Florida. No surveys have been conducted in the region for at least 30 years.

Those at Mondays event also railed against what they said they believe is the end game of the testing  oil and gas drilling off the East Coast. Spills and accidents are unpredictable and would threaten the Jersey Shores economy, several officials warned.

We have enough natural disasters we have to worry about being in emergency management that we dont need to worry about man-made disasters, said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi, who also heads Cape May Countys Office of Emergency Management.

If we foul whats out there, we cant flip a switch and fix it, LoBiondo said, gesturing toward the water.

LoBiondo has recently introduced a pair of bills to combat the administrations plan  one that would ban permits for seismic activity in the Atlantic Ocean and another that would place a 10-year moratorium on offshore drilling in the body of water.

He said Monday that its still early in the process for both pieces of legislation. The seismic testing bill has gained 23 cosponsors, Lobiondo added.

The NMFS is accepting public comments on the proposed surveys through July 7.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WILDWOOD  As a band played Led Zeppelins Stairway to Heaven Sunday afternoon under a wooden roller coaster, Moreys Piers patrons strolled its first Arts & Music Festival at Adventure Pier.

The event held Saturday and Sunday served as a way for musicians, painters, photographers and others to reach a new audience.

Its a good opportunity to interact with people and talk about your art and share it with people, said artist David Macomber, of Cape May. And its a cool spot. The beach is right here.

Macomber painted the outside of the 11 shipping containers that make up Moreys Piers artBOX.

He has been involved in the artists colony at Adventure Pier since it was founded five years ago.

On Sunday, Macomber set up two canvases on easels in one of the containers. Buckets of house paint were piled in the corner.

I think most people dont see art being created, he added.

Moreys Piers delved into the art scene after co-owner Jack Morey returned from a trip to New Zealand, said company spokesperson Maggie Warner. Morey had seen shipping containers used in a creative way during the trip.

Adventure Pier is now where were able to bring art to Moreys Piers, Warner said. The pier is a bit more grungy and has more extreme rides than the companys other two piers, she said.

Stationed in one of the shipping crates is the Culture Crush, a New York-based company that produces photo essays, art and podcasts, among other things. They will be at Adventure Pier all summer, founder Debra Scherer said.

We want to be in front of people, she said. Our plan is to make all new stuff while were here, and we really want to connect to the local community.

Annie Morton, a photographer and contributor for the Culture Crush, recently completed a photo essay on Wildwood. The companys magazine is showcasing her work.

Its an amazing place in the summer, said Morton, who lives in Pennsylvania but comes to the island every summer. Lots of different faces. Different textures.
Support for Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe slumped more than 10 points to 44.9 percent in a public opinion poll published Sunday, amid opposition party suspicions he used his influence unfairly to help a friend set up a business.

Abe has repeatedly denied abusing his authority to benefit his friend. His grip on power is not in danger, given his ruling coalition's huge majority in parliament, but the affair looks unlikely to fade away.

The education ministry unearthed documents last week that the opposition said suggested Abe wanted a new veterinary school run by a friend to be approved in a state-run special economic zone. The ministry had earlier said it could not find the documents but reopened the probe under public pressure.

Opposition politicians and the media have identified Abe's friend as Kotaro Kake, the director of the Kake Educational Institution, which wants to open a veterinary department. The government has not approved new veterinary schools for decades because of concern about a glut of veterinarians.
Regarding the controversy over the THAAD deployment, the adviser added, "There's talk that our alliance will break up if THAAD-related issues are not resolved. I wonder if such relations could really be considered an alliance."

"It's unnecessary to deploy a super-carrier and a nuclear submarine" during annual U.S.-South Korea joint exercises, Moon Chung-in said during the visit ahead of President Moon's summit with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump. "Tension on the peninsula could be eased if those U.S. strategic assets are scaled down to the level they were before 2010."

A special adviser to President Moon Jae-in has ruffled feathers during a visit to Washington by calling for nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to be kept away from the Korean Peninsula and downplaying the importance of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense battery being stationed here.

A spokesman for the U.S. State Department told Voice of America that the comments were Moon Chung-in's "personal opinion" and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of his government.

The State Department added that the joint military exercises are aimed at defending the South and the Northeast Asian region.

Seeking to quell the controversy, a Cheong Wa Dae official said many of the comments were the personal opinion of the adviser as an academic and not Cheong Wa Dae's official stance. "Such issues require the two governments' agreement," he said.

Moon Chung-in made the remarks in a meeting with South Korean correspondents at the Wilson Center. He also said that if North Korea halts its nuclear weapons and missile tests, South Korea is willing to discuss with the U.S. the possibility of scaling down joint military exercises.

He said those were his personal opinions but added it "would not be wrong" to say that President Moon agrees. He added that North Korea seems to have been provoked into its recent frenzied missile tests by the deployment of the U.S. aircraft carriers and bombers to the Korean Peninsula.

Asked about the prospect of inter-Korean talks, the envoy said Seoul will find it hard to accept Washington's refusal of dialogue with Pyongyang until it scraps its nuclear weapons program. "We do not need to meet the terms of any U.S.-North Korea agreements in holding talks between South and North," he added.


JOHANNESBURG, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Advicement, a cutting-edge alternative to the traditional ways that South Africans save and invest has launched. The innovative company aims to bring sound financial advice to all South Africans through the power of technology.

Advicement is a locally developed Robo Advisor which offers its clients' exciting investment portfolios of JSE listed ETFs. Advicement was bootstrapped into existence two years ago by Igor Rodionov, who previously worked as a quantitative analyst. "My thinking about a local Robo Advisor started when family and friends kept asking about their investment options. This prompted some research that showed there were massive issues when it comes to service fees and transparency amongst traditional 'face-to-face' financial advisors."

"Unsatisfied with the available options in the market, the idea behind Advicement was born. The aim was to create an online platform that puts investors first  by making financial advice accessible, cost-effective and transparent," says Advicement's managing director, Igor Rodionov.

To utilise the Advicement investment process, all one needs to do is answer a quick questionnaire about their savings preferences  with a succinct description of their financial goals. "Advicement will analyse your answers and recommend an investment portfolio with an appropriate risk level given your situation. This is done using an interactive dashboard that is supplemented with a wealth of information," Rodionov says.

Once a client has studied their generated investment report and they are satisfied with the selected investment portfolio, they can then proceed and open an Easy Equities account. "Easy Equities is a retail stock broker and our sole execution partner, meaning that you will need to have an account with them to invest with Advicement," he adds.

Choosing Easy Equities was a no-brainer for Rodionov, as they have over 50000 users and provide one of the most cost-effective brokerage services in the country. Advicement will appeal to South Africans who prefer the passive investment approach, with its low fees.

Such investors are growing fast overseas. In May 2017, Financial Times reported that the size of the passive market (globally) has reached USD 4 trillion, while experts believe passive funds will reach 50 percent of the size of active funds in 2018. This strong growth has not been realised in South Africa just yet, which is still largely dominated by active funds, some of which are very expensive by comparison. Advicement aims to change this and give South Africans an alternative, cost-effective way to invest.

For more information, or for any questions, please contact:

Igor Rodionov

clientservices@advicement.co.za

Website: https://advicement.co.za

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/advicement.co.za

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Advicement_SA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/advicement-investment-services-ptyltd

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SOURCE Advicement
A North Korean man in his early 20s defected to South Korea by swimming down the Han River on Sunday, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

The man attached styrofoam pieces and tree branches to his shoulders to keep him afloat and swam down the river. He was found by a South Korean sentry near Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province and is currently being questioned by the military, police and the National Intelligence Service.

There have been a number of direct defections from North Korean civilians and soldiers across the border this month.

Two North Korean fishermen found adrift by South Korean authorities in the East Sea in early June said they want to stay, and a North Korean corporal defected to a South Korean guard post in the Demilitarized Zone in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi Province, on June 13.

"Defections tend to peak in June, when food supplies are low just before the harvest," a government spokesman here said.


ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

The Second Preparatory Meeting of the 25th OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum (EEF): Greening the Economy and Building Partnerships for Security in the OSCE Region was held as part of EXPO 2017 in Kazakhstan's capital on June 15-16.

During the two-day event, delegates from 57 OSCE participating states, leading experts, representatives of international organizations and the civil sector discussed issues ranging from sustainable development to the use of RES and the strengthening of energy security.

Giving a speech at the meeting, Kazakhstan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Roman Vasilenko stressed the importance of the OSCEs role in sharing best practices and the latest achievements in economics and the environment, including the transition to a green economy.

The outcomes of the discussions in Astana will lay the groundwork for the definitive document that is due to be adopted on September 6-8 at the Final Meeting in Prague, and will also be adhered to while the decisions made by the OSCE Ministerial Council are elaborated further.

About Astana EXPO 2017

Astana EXPO 2017 'Future Energy' will take place between June, 10 and September, 10 2017 in Astana. The exhibition will last 93 days and will become one of the most spectacular cultural venues in 2017.

As part of Astana EXPO 2017, global policy documents will be drafted in order to promote an energy-efficient lifestyle and wide use of renewable energy sources.

National Company Astana EXPO 2017

For more information, please contact:

Natalia Kostikova

Expo2017@m-p.ru

+7(903)209-3500



SOURCE National company Astana EXPO-2017
SINGAPORE, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

ICIS, the leading petrochemical market intelligence provider, delivered several key presentations at APIC in Sapporo, Japan last 18-19 May 2017. These presentations have been made available to download.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160408/353056LOGO )



The consultants at ICIS presented on the past, present and future of the petrochemical industry amid changing trading patterns and economic and political developments on day one of the event. The presentation entitled Accelerated Changes: New Scenarios for Global Refining and Petrochemicals Industries, and the Role of China covers all of the following:

Climate change and pollution concerns - The impact on refining and chemicals industries

Uncertain demand and trade flow patterns

China at a turning point: The impact of economic reforms on Asian and global economies

The presentations of ICIS market experts during the committee meetings of APIC 2017 can also be downloaded.

"Trumped" or not "Trumped"? The Coming US Petrochemical Export Surge

Survival of the Fittest - Are the Non-traditional Olefins and Polyolefins Routes Sustainable in the Low-oil, Low-naphtha Price Environment?

The Road Ahead for Asia's Styrene and Feedstocks

Styrene and Feedstocks Asia Vinyls Market Review and the Revival of China as an Export Player

as an Export Player Gas or Coal-to-olefins (CTO) - Will it Ever Work in the Current Low Oil Price Environment?

Exploring the Intertwining Relationship between Propylene Oxide (PO) and Polyether Polyols

By downloading the presentations listed above, you gain unrivalled access to hot topics, challenges and opportunities faced by market players operating in olefins, polyolefins, aromatics, vinyl and intermediates sectors.

Download the presentation slides here >>

For further details, visit http://www.icis.com/apic-2017

About ICIS

ICIS is the world's largest petrochemical market information provider and has fast-growing energy and fertilizer divisions. Our aim is to give companies in global commodities markets a competitive advantage by delivering trusted pricing data, high-value news, analysis and independent consulting, enabling our customers to make better-informed trading and planning decisions. We have more than 30 years' experience in providing pricing information, news, analysis and consulting to buyers, sellers and analysts.

With a global staff of more than 800, ICIS has employees based in Houston, Washington, New York, London, Montpellier, Dusseldorf, Karlsruhe, Milan, Mumbai, Singapore, Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo and Perth. Some 350 of ICIS's staff are journalists engaged in reporting market prices and news, and ICIS is fully committed to upholding the highest journalistic principles of verification, corroboration and authentication. ICIS has a compliance framework that along with its methodologies and business processes adheres to the requirements of the IOSCO PRA Principles.

ICIS is a division of Reed Business Information, part of RELX Group.

About Reed Business Information

Reed Business Information provides information, analytics and data to business professionals worldwide. Our strong global products and services hold market-leading positions across a wide range of industry sectors including banking, petrochemicals and aviation where we help customers make key strategic decisions every day. RBI is part of RELX Group, a global provider of information and analytics for professional customers across industries. http://www.reedbusiness.com



About RELX

RELX Group is a worldleading provider of information and analytics for professional and business customers across industries. The group serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs approximately 30,000 people of whom half are in North America. RELX PLC is a London listed holding company which owns 52.9% of RELX Group. RELX NV is an Amsterdam listed holding company which owns 47.1% of RELX Group. The shares are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York Stock Exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX and RENX. The total market capitalisation is approximately 33.1bn/38.2bn/US$42.6bn. http://www.relx.com.

SOURCE ICIS
STOCKHOLM, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Mr. Mustapha Bakkoury, President of Masen, visited Sweden to meet with Swedish Governmental Energy Agencies and Swedish Technology Provider, Cleanergy AB.

Morocco and Sweden have the attributes for good business relations within the energy sector. With Morocco's avant-gardist strategy for renewable energy development, its optimal weather conditions and Sweden's innovative technology solutions, focus is on how to continue developing the collaboration between the two countries.

Mr. Bakkoury undertook this visit upon an official invitation by the State Secretary Mr. Oscar Stenstrom, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who he met on June 15th. Mr. Bakkoury also met with Mr. Par Nuder, Board Member of Cleanergy AB, and other high-level representatives of the Swedish Government and officials of the Stockholm Region to discuss:

Swedish energy strategy and goals for renewables Collaborative efforts between the two countries Moroccan roadmap to being global leader within renewable energy

- We are positioning ourselves as a major player in the renewables sector on a global level. Morocco has set an ambitious objective of 52% renewables within its energy mix by 2030. Relations with Sweden are part of the strategy to accomplish this, as well as our interest for innovative, state-of-the-art solar power generation technologies, says Mr. Bakkoury.

Prior to this visit Cleanergy AB signed an agreement with Masen to deliver concentrated solar power (CSP) technology to Morocco. The agreement foresees Cleanergy and Masen collaborating to set up demonstration units of Cleanergy's Stirling CSP technology in the Noor Ouarzazate complex and to launch collaborative innovation activities on thermal energy storage systems.

- They have the world's largest concentrated solar power plant since 2016  580 MW Noor Ouarzazate complex and will in 2018 supply power to nearly two million people all over Morocco. We see this aggressive plan and expansion as an opportunity. To enter the African solar power market and collaborate with Masen on development of the CSP technology with storage, is a solution where everyone can benefit, comments Mr. Jonas Eklind, President of Cleanergy AB.

For more information, please contact:

Sandy Reinholdsson

Tel: +46-703-633-980

Email: sandy.reinholdsson@cleanergy.com

About Cleanergy

Cleanergy is a privately held Swedish high-tech SME specialized in the supply of Stirling engine-based renewable energy solutions. The company has its headquarters in Gothenburg, with 90+ employees and production facilities located in the heart of the Nordic automotive and aerospace clusters on the west-coast of Sweden. The Stirling engine is produced in a state-of-the-art assembly line, the company has access to the most advanced material suppliers and engineering centres of excellence in Northern Europe.

www.cleanergy.com

About Masen

Masen (Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy) was founded in 2010 and is a major player in Morocco's overall energy strategy. The Company oversees implementation of the country's renewable energy program aiming to achieve 52 percent of the national electricity mix from renewable sources by 2030.

As manager of all integrated renewable energy project aspects, ranging from generating electricity to contributing to the local economy and communities, Masen is transforming natural energy into power for progress.

www.masen.ma

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

http://news.cision.com/cleanergy-ab/r/masen-visits-sweden-to-discuss-collaborations-with-sweden-and-swedish-csp-technology-provider-cleane,c2289871

The following files are available for download:

http://mb.cision.com/Main/16031/2289871/689670.pdf Press release (PDF) http://news.cision.com/cleanergy-ab/i/image1,c2168119 image1

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SOURCE Cleanergy AB
NEWTON, N.C., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- 24/7 Kid Doc, Inc. (OTC Pink Sheets: TVMD), a healthcare company providing Telemedicine solutions to public schools at no cost, announced today it has established a second pilot program, this time with the Montgomery County School District in Georgia.

Training on the Company's proprietary Connect-a-Doc Telemedicine system was completed May 30th by Dr. Noberto Benitez, the company's Medical Director. "75% of what I can do in an office visit, I can do with Telemedicine, hundreds if not thousands of miles away from the patient," said Dr. Benitez.

The pilot program will begin in the Montgomery Elementary and Montgomery Middle schools with the start of the 2017-2018 school year August 2nd.

24/7 Kid Doc, Inc. also announced that the company's first pilot program being conducted in North Carolina has progressed to the point where parents are now enrolling their kids for the 2017-2018 school year.

24/7 Kid Doc, Inc. is the only company in the country that provides a complete school-based Telemedicine solution to school districts at no cost and without requiring government grants or corporate donations. The student's Telemedicine consultation will be billed, the same as an office visit, through the student's private health insurance or Medicaid provider. Research has shown that Telemedicine in schools keeps kids in class, increasing graduation rates and keeps parents at work, saving lost wages and jobs.

Kid Doc's Connect-a-Doc system consists of a laptop computer equipped with state-of-the-art HIPAA compliant encrypted video conferencing software with remote diagnostic equipment, transmitting in real time with the Pediatrician or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

According to Tim Shannon, 24/7 Kid Doc, Inc. CEO, "We are excited to have partnered with innovative school districts in both NC and GA that acknowledge that the future of school healthcare is Telemedicine. We continue to be very encouraged by the reception we are getting from other school superintendents throughout the South and look forward to announcing more school districts and pilot programs in the coming months."

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may include projections of matters that affect revenue, operating expenses or net earnings; projections of growth; and assumptions relating to the foregoing. Such forward-looking statements are generally qualified by terms such as: "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "believes" or similar words. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or qualified. Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking information. These factors are discussed in greater detail in the company's filings with the OTC Markets Group.

Investor Contact: Tim Shannon, CEO (844) 303-8006 [email protected]

SOURCE 24/7 Kid Doc, Inc.
NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson's Ethicon, Inc. subsidiary has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review a $3.3 million verdict awarded in a transvaginal mesh lawsuit involving the company's TVT-O mesh. The case was decided in September 2014, when a jury in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of West Virginia, found that TVT-O mesh was responsible for severe pain and other complications experienced by the plaintiff. The verdict was upheld in January by a 3-judge panel at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit. However, in a petition for certiorari filed with the Supreme Court on May 23rd, Ethicon asserted that the appellate court had improperly excluded evidence pertaining to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration's 510(k) clearance process. (Huskey et al. v. Ethicon Inc. et al., case number 15-2118)

"Our Firm is representing hundreds of women who were allegedly injured due to Ethicon's transvaginal mesh products. We will be monitoring this appeal closely, as the outcome will impact other lawsuits involved in this litigation," says Sandy A. Liebhard, a partner at Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationwide law firm representing victims of defective drugs and medical devices. The Firm continues to investigate legal claims on behalf of women who suffered serious vaginal mesh complications, allegedly due to products marketed by Ethicon and other manufacturers.

Transvaginal Mesh Controversy

The lawsuit under appeal was the first bellwether case to go to trial in a multidistrict litigation that includes more than 28,000 Ethicon transvaginal mesh lawsuits. Thousands of additional claims involving devices marketed by C.R. Bard, Inc., American Medical Systems, Boston Scientific Corp., C.R. Bard, Inc. Cook Medical, Inc., have also been centralized in the Southern District of West Virginia.

In 2008, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warned that transvaginal mesh had been linked to at least 1,000 reports of serious injuries and complications over a three-year period. The agency issued an update in July 2011, after the number of complication reports related to transvaginal prolapse repair tripled. Among other things, the FDA modified its previous stance that such injuries were rare.

In 2016, the FDA finalized regulations that reclassified transvaginal mesh indicated for prolapse repair as Class III (high risk) medical devices. The new rules also made these devices ineligible for the agency's 510(k) clearance program, which had previously allowed such products to come to market without first undergoing human clinical trials.

In 2012, Ethicon announced it would stop selling four pelvic mesh devices, including Gynecare TVT Secur, Gynecare Prosima, Gynecare Prolift and Gynecare Prolift+M. The company attributed its decision to commercial concerns and maintained that the products were safe. However, the FDA had recently ordered Ethicon and 20 other vaginal mesh manufacturers to conduct further research into the risks associated with their implants.

Women who suffered serious complications allegedly associated with transvaginal mesh may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. To learn more, please visit Bernstein Liebhard LLP's website, or call 800-511-5092 to arrange for a free, no-obligation review of your potential claim.

About Bernstein Liebhard LLP

Bernstein Liebhard LLP is a New York-based law firm exclusively representing injured persons in complex individual and class action lawsuits nationwide since 1993. As a national law firm, Bernstein Liebhard LLP possesses all of the legal and financial resources required to successfully challenge billion dollar pharmaceutical and medical device companies. As a result, our attorneys and legal staff have been able to recover more than $3.5 billion on behalf of our clients. Bernstein Liebhard LLP is honored to once again be named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List," recognizing the top plaintiffs firms in the country. This year's nomination marks the thirteenth year the firm has been named to this prestigious annual list.

Bernstein Liebhard LLP

10 East 40th Street

New York, New York 10016

800-511-5092

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2017 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, 800-511-5092. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

Contact Information:

Sandy A. Liebhard, Esq.

Bernstein Liebhard LLP

info (at)consumerinjurylawyers(dot)com

http://www.rxinjuryhelp.com/

https://plus.google.com/115936073311125306742?rel=author

SOURCE Bernstein Liebhard LLP

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BRENTWOOD, Tenn., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- AAC Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAC) reached an agreement with 120 local workers represented by their union, Health Professionals & Allied Employees, AFT/AFL-CIO (HPAE), at the Company's Sunrise House treatment facility in Lafayette, New Jersey. Once the facility is relicensed, which is expected to occur in the next 30 days, AAC expects to begin admitting clients for treatment. Sunrise House had been closed since May 23, 2017, as a result of a labor dispute and AAC's decision to transfer as many clients as possible to other treatment facilities in order to continue uninterrupted care necessary to ensure their health and safety.

"AAC's priorities remain focused on delivering exceptional clinical quality to our clients and their families and fighting the national epidemic of substance abuse that is wrecking our nation," noted Michael Cartwright, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AAC Holdings. "Many of us have spent our entire careers addressing this crisis, are in recovery ourselves or have made this industry our life's passion. It is unfortunate that negotiations such as the one with HPAE take the course that they do, but we are pleased to resolve it and be able to get clients back in treatment at Sunrise House as soon as possible."

About American Addiction Centers

American Addiction Centers is a leading provider of inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment services. We treat clients who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. We currently operate substance abuse treatment facilities located throughout the United States. These facilities are focused on delivering effective clinical care and treatment solutions. For more information, please find us at AmericanAddictionCenters.org or follow us on Twitter @AAC_Tweet.

Forward Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this release. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as "anticipates," "believes," "could," "estimates," "expects," "may," "potential," "predicts," "projects," "should," "will," "would," and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements may include information concerning AAC Holdings, Inc.'s (collectively with its subsidiaries; "Holdings" or the "Company") possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of Holdings' revenues, profitability, outlook and overall business strategy. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results and performance to be materially different from the information contained in the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, without limitation: (i) our inability to operate our facilities; (ii) our reliance on our sales and marketing program to continuously attract and enroll clients; (iii) a reduction in reimbursement rates by certain third-party payors for inpatient and outpatient services and point of care and definitive lab testing; (iv) an increase in our provision for doubtful accounts based on the aging of receivables; (v) our failure to successfully achieve growth through acquisitions and de novo expansions; (vi) uncertainties regarding the timing of the closing of acquisitions; (vii) the possibility that a governmental entity may prohibit, delay or refuse to grant approval for the consummation of an acquisition; (viii) our failure to achieve anticipated financial results from prior acquisitions; (ix) a disruption in our ability to perform definitive drug testing services; (x) maintaining compliance with applicable regulatory authorities, licensure and permits to operate our facilities and lab; (xi) a disruption in our business and reputation and potential economic consequences with the civil securities claims brought by shareholders; (xii) our inability to agree on conversion and other terms for the balance of convertible debt; (xiii) our inability to meet our covenants in the loan documents; (xiv) our inability to obtain senior lender consent to exceed the current $50 million limit in unsecured subordinated debt; (xv) our inability to integrate newly acquired facilities; and (xvi) general economic conditions, as well as other risks discussed in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result of these factors, we cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this release will prove to be accurate. Investors should not place undue reliance upon forward looking statements.

SOURCE AAC Holdings, Inc.

Related Links

http://americanaddictioncenters.org


CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Maycreate, an advertising agency located in Chattanooga, was just listed as a Top 5 Agency with Agency Spotter, an online resource that connects brands to creative agencies. Released quarterly, Agency Spotter's Top 20 Advertising Agency Report evaluates more than 2,300 advertising agencies based on their credentials, their focus, and expertise in advertising.

Maycreate

Agency Spotter evaluates from how agencies create the big idea to their ability to produce great creative across channels, client feedback, and project work. Their most recent report was released June 13, 2017, with Maycreate listed number three among the top 20.

"We are honored and excited to have received such a high ranking on Agency Spotter's agency report," says Brian May, President and Senior Creative Director with Maycreate. "Our team has 175 years of combined total experience that produces excellence for the brands we serve nationwide. Each member of our team applies that invaluable experience to the work we produce for every client. We set the bar high and the end result has to pass our demanding standards before we share it with our clients."

Maycreate is a full-service marketing agency, handling everything from advertising and creative development to website creation and social media marketing. Prior to Maycreate, senior team members gained their experience producing strategic and creative work for a number of Fortune 500 companies and organizations including AT&T, Ford, Sears, Johnson & Johnson, Volvo, Black & Decker, Dell, REI, Sprint, Hardee's, Kraft, and the United States Marine Corps.

To learn more about the agency, their expert team and services, visit Maycreate.com.

About Maycreate

Launched 2003, Maycreate is a group of creatives with big agency and big brand experience that decided to start an agency without restraints. The company, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, services clients from tiny retails shops to Fortune 50 corporations locally and across the nation. To learn more, visit Maycreate.com.

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Related Links

Agency Spotter Maycreate Profile Page

Agency Spotter Top 20 Agencies page

SOURCE Maycreate

Related Links

http://Maycreate.com


After Great Disasters: An In-Depth Analysis of How Six Countries Managed Community Recovery , (Paperback $30.00, 376 pages; ISBN 978-1-55844-331-0), by Laurie A. Johnson and Robert Olshansky, synthesizes the authors' 25 years of collaborative experience as recovery planners onsite of major disasters ranging from the 1995 earthquake in Kobe to Hurricane Sandy in 2012. They recommend best practices for urban officials and policy makers based on firsthand research on the roles of various levels of government in successful disaster recovery and rebuilding in the United States, Japan, China, New Zealand, Indonesia, India, and several other countries around the world. The authors collected hundreds of documents and interviewed government officials, academic researchers, representatives of international aid organizations, community leaders, and disaster survivors, with the aim of finding common lessons in these disparate environments and facilitating the recovery of communities struck by future disasters.

The book provides more tools for implementation following the 2016 publication of the Policy Focus Report After Great Disasters: How Six Countries Managed Community Recovery, also by Johnson and Olshansky, showing how metropolitan regions can rebuild for greater resilience during the reconstruction process after earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, or terrorists attacks. "The level of detail in the book is invaluable for disaster recovery workers on the ground, compared to the concise recommendations in the earlier report, which is geared to readers at the executive level," says Olshansky, head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champlain. Johnson is an urban planning researcher and consultant, and chairs the U.S. National Advisory Committee for Earthquake Hazards Reduction.

As Johnson notes, "Disasters can change the fortunes of a city or region forever." Chicago and San Francisco became more successful cities after being ravaged by fire and earthquake, respectively, and Tokyo successfully survived devastating fires caused by earthquake and war. But the city center of Managua, Nicaragua, never recovered from a 1972 earthquake, and Galveston, Texas, lost its status as a booming metropolis after its destruction by a great hurricane in 1900.

The management of recovery matters because disasters extend over time. They disrupt lives and businesses as people await assistance, infrastructure repair, and the return of their neighbors. Physical recovery from disasters takes many years, and the psychological scars can last for decades. Many people survive the initial disaster but then suffer from the recovery as the economy stagnates, social networks weaken, and healthcare and support services decline. The process of recovery is a major aspect of a disaster, and its management can affect both the intensity and the duration of citizens' disaster experiences. Post-disaster reconstruction offers a variety of opportunities to fix long-standing problems by improving construction and design standards and quality, renewing infrastructure, creating new land use arrangements, avoiding hazardous locations, reinventing economies, improving governance, and raising community awareness and preparedness.

In the past 40 years, a number of serious international disasters have required large-scale, sustained intervention by multiple levels of government and nongovernmental organizations, and their activities and actions have increased knowledge of long-term post-disaster reconstruction. We now have enough examples to develop effective models for the process of rebuilding human settlements after disasters.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Evolving Approaches to Managing Recovery from Large-Scale Disasters



China : Top-Down, Fast-Paced Reconstruction



New Zealand : Centralizing Governance and Transforming Cityscapes



Japan : National Land Use Regulations Drive Recovery



India : State-Managed Recovery with NGO Involvement



Indonesia : Centrally Managed, Community-Driven Approaches to Reconstruction



United States : An Evolving Recovery Policy Centralized at Federal and State Levels



Conclusions and Recommendations

Praise for After Great Disasters

"After Great Disasters is best read by civic leaders before the next hurricane, earthquake, or terrorist attack. Its crisp and cogent review of what worked and what didn't after the world's recent large disasters ought to be mandatory reading, which could make the difference between a community's renaissance or stagnation."

Andrew D. Kopplin

President & CEO

Doris Z. Stone Chair in Philanthropic Leadership

Greater New Orleans Foundation

"If you live in an area that might experience a major disaster, buy and read this book now. If you haven't already read it when a disaster occurs, find a copy and read it carefully. It provides a wealth of advice about the challenges you will experience during recovery and suggests how to organize your recovery efforts to the best effect."

Herman B. "Dutch" Leonard

Baker Professor of Public Management

Faculty Cochair of the Program on Crisis Leadership

John F. Kennedy School of Government

Harvard University

"After Great Disasters offers one of the most well-researched accounts of large-scale, post-disaster recovery programs in several countries. The case studies highlight the common strands of successful recovery programs: effective governance, intensive planning, transparent implementation, and civic participation. The book raises the complex issues and trade-offs underlying recovery programs and takes a nuanced view of recovery, which balances rebuilding livelihoods and social networks with reconstructing houses and infrastructure. This book is essential reading for students and practitioners of post-disaster recovery."

Krishna S. Vatsa

Recovery Advisor

Bureau for Policy and Programme Support

United Nations Development Programme

About the Authors

Laurie A. Johnson, Ph.D., AICP, is an internationally recognized urban planner specializing in disaster recovery and catastrophe risk management. She has an extensive portfolio of recovery research and management expertise following earthquakes, landslides, floods, hurricanes, and human-made disasters across the United States and the world. In 2006, she was a lead author of the recovery plan for the city of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina; she then coauthored the book Clear as Mud: Planning for the Rebuilding of New Orleans with Robert Olshansky. She is a lead author of the American Planning Association's guidebook Planning for Post-Disaster Recovery: Next Generation (2014). She is also a visiting project scientist at the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Center at the University of California, Berkeley. Her consultancy is based in San Rafael, California.

Robert B. Olshansky, Ph.D., FAICP, is professor and head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, where he has taught for more than 27 years. He has published extensively on post-disaster recovery planning, policy for earthquake risks, hillside planning and landslide policy, and environmental impact assessment. He coauthored Clear as Mud: Planning for the Rebuilding of New Orleans with Laurie Johnson, as well as the report Opportunity in Chaos: Rebuilding after the 1994 Northridge and 1995 Kobe Earthquakes with Laurie Johnson and Ken Topping, and he edited the four-volume Urban Planning After Disasters (Routledge). He and collaborators, with support from the National Science Foundation and the University of Illinois, have also researched and published on disaster recovery in China, India, Indonesia, Haiti, and Japan.

The Lincoln Institute of Land Policy seeks to improve quality of life through the effective use, taxation, and stewardship of land. A nonprofit private operating foundation whose origins date to 1946, the Lincoln Institute researches and recommends creative approaches to land as a solution to economic, social, and environmental challenges. Through education, training, publications, and events, we integrate theory and practice to inform public policy decisions worldwide.

SOURCE Lincoln Institute of Land Policy

Related Links

http://www.lincolninst.edu


HOUSTON, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- alliantgroup National Director of Tax Steven Miller and Managing Director of Tax Controversy John Dies will be hosting a webinar with Bloomberg BNA entitled "Captive InsuranceThe New IRS Approach" this Thursday at 10:30 am CDT to discuss Internal Revenue Service scrutiny of small captive insurance arrangements.

Many small and mid-size businesses use captive insurance companies as a way to manage insurance costs. Unfortunately, these arrangements are frequently abused to generate a business deduction, which has led captive insurance to make the IRS's dirty dozen list three years in a row.

As a former Acting Commissioner of the IRS and Deputy Commissioner for Services and Enforcement, Steven Miller has more than 25 years experience working at every level of the IRS. John Dies has represented hundreds of clients for substantiation claims, examinations and appeals. As an experienced trial attorney, he has argued many cases that had significant ramifications on the tax code.

During this webinar, Miller and Dies will discuss the pros and cons of captive insurance companies as well as what is required for a proper captive set-up. They will also discuss how the IRS conducts these examinations and pending court cases that will decide the future of captive insurance like Avrahami v. Commissioner. This webinar will count for 1.0 CLE or CPE Credit.

"Captive insurance is a huge focus of the IRS right now," said alliantgroup CEO Dhaval Jadav. "alliantgroup is committed to making sure the CPAs we work with and their clients have the most current information available. Any corporate tax advisor would benefit from learning more about upcoming court cases and how the IRS views captive insurance."

alliantgroup exists to help industry associations, American businesses and CPA firms take advantage of federal and state tax credits, incentives and deductions to the fullest extent possible. Congress passed legislation on these incentive programs to help US businesses compete domestically and internationally. alliantgroup has helped over 20,000 business claim more than $5 billion in tax incentives. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, alliantgroup employs over 700 employees nationwide who are all passionate about helping US businesses stay strong and innovative. For more information find alliantgroup on Facebook or Twitter.

Media Contact

David Rosen

alliantgroup

713-350-3167

[email protected]

SOURCE alliantgroup
SINGAPORE, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Producers, trading companies and refiners are increasingly adopting West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and other Argus benchmarks at the US Gulf coast to index growing shipments of North American crude moving to Asia-Pacific, the world's leading oil import market. This raises the need to align price signals from different regions under a single timestamp.

Argus, the world's largest independent price reporting agency, has launched outright prices for four key US Gulf coast crude streams with a 4:30pm Singapore timestamp  WTI Houston Asian timestamp, WTI Midland Asian timestamp, LLS (Light Louisiana Sweet) Asian timestamp and Mars Asian timestamp. These Asian markers will also be expressed as differentials to the Mideast Gulf's Dubai benchmark.

The US Gulf coast market has become a key balancing point for crudes of different qualities. It is the world's largest refining centre, and the supplier of the marginal barrel in the global crude market. Exports from the Gulf coast now regularly reach consumers in Latin America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

"The highly liquid markets of the US Gulf coast and the wide diversity of participants have created conditions for a series of robust price indexes, which will now be extended to Asia-Pacific with the introduction of markers with a Singapore timestamp," Argus Media chairman and chief executive Adrian Binks said. "Argus can help facilitate the Asia-Pacific region's burgeoning imports from the US by publishing a value for those grades of crude oil at a time relevant to the local market."

US crude exports surged to nearly 925,000 b/d in the first four months of 2017, up by 78pc from 520,000 b/d last year, according to the US Census Bureau. About a third of total exports left for destinations in Asia-Pacific in January-April. China was the largest buyer, taking nearly 215,000 b/d of US crude. Unipec, the trading arm of state-owned Chinese refiner Sinopec and the world's largest crude importer, is buying 3mn-4mn bl/month of US crude this year, accounting for about half of China's total.

Argus calculates crude prices at the US Gulf coast using a volume-weighted average (VWA) of trades, the method for virtually all indexed spot and term transactions in North America. The VWA methodology allows for a more accurate representation of value because every barrel counts towards the price formation process, as opposed to market-on-close methodologies used in other markets.

Contact Information

London

Seana Lanigan

+44 20 7780 4272

[email protected]

Houston

Scott Berg

+ 1 713 968 0000

[email protected]

Singapore

Jim Nicholson

+65 6496 9960

[email protected]

About Argus Media

Argus is an independent media organisation with more than 850 staff. It is headquartered in London and has 21 offices in the world's principal commodity trading and production centres. Argus produces price assessments and analysis of international energy and other commodity markets, and offers bespoke consulting services and industry-leading conferences.

Companies in 140 countries around the world use Argus data to index physical trade and as benchmarks in financial derivative markets as well as for analysis and planning purposes.

Argus was founded in 1970 and is a privately held UK-registered company. It is owned by staff shareholders and global growth equity firm General Atlantic.

ARGUS, the ARGUS logo, ARGUS MEDIA, ARGUS DIRECT, ARGUS OPEN MARKETS, AOM, FMB, DEWITT, JIM JORDAN & ASSOCIATES, JJ&A, FUNDALYTICS, METAL-PAGES, METALPRICES.COM, Argus publication titles and Argus index names are trademarks of Argus Media Limited.

SOURCE Argus Media

Related Links

http://www.argusmedia.com


President Moon Jae-in's special adviser for security and foreign affairs, Moon Chung-in, put his foot firmly in his mouth during a visit to Washington ahead of the Korea-U.S. summit. He told South Korean correspondents there that joint military exercises with the U.S. should be scaled down, and questioned why American aircraft carriers and nuclear bombers should be deployed on the Korean Peninsula.

He also suggested that if controversy over the deployment of a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense battery here in southwestern Korea is an alliance-breaker, then the alliance does not deserve the name. He added that his comments are his own views, but it "would not be wrong" to say that the president agrees with him.

Moon Chung-in probably made the comments in a bid to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiating table. But the U.S. State Department was peeved, saying it views his comments as his "personal opinion" and probably not the official stance of the Moon Jae-in administration.

The adviser's comments seem to echo China's mantra that the U.S. must also take responsibility along with North Korea for the nuclear standoff. China too has urged South Korea and the U.S. to halt their massive joint drills so North Korea can stop its nuclear and missile programs.

The U.S. deployed two nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and several strategic bombers around the Korean Peninsula to respond to repeated provocations by North Korea. The North conducted two nuclear tests last year and fired a ballistic missile every week since President Moon took office in May. The UN Security Council took the unusual step of adopting three consecutive resolutions against the North over the last 15 months.

Under these circumstances, it is not just inappropriate but foolish to twitter dovishly about getting rid of strategic U.S. weapons and scaling down joint military exercises, which are the only serious bargaining chips currently available. These options should be considered only after Pyongyang has taken irreversible steps to scrap its nuclear and missile programs. In the past, South Korea and the U.S. have halted the "Team Spirit" joint exercises after North Korea agreed to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. But the net result of that agreement is a huge North Korean nuclear arsenal.

Even if North Korea halts its provocations, the nuclear and missile threats do not simply disappear. Far from it. The North is nearing the development of a miniaturized nuclear warhead and already has a wide range of ballistic missiles capable of hitting key U.S. installations in the region as well as all over South Korea. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un would surely be surprised if the South simply jettisons key defensive options while that North's fundamental threat still exists. Begging for talks will merely lead to more demands from North Kore, followed at best by empty promises.

And in fact the U.S. has never said it will not hold talks with North Korea unless it scraps its nuclear weapons. Rather, it said it will not hold talks unless it is understood that the scrapping of the nuclear program is the aim. Of course the Seoul-Washington alliance will not be destroyed because of THAAD, but cracks are likely to form at a time when Seoul can least afford them.

Moon Chung-in was appointed special adviser after being mooted for the posts of foreign minister and chief secretary for national security at Cheong Wa Dae. A former tutor to President Moon's mentor Roh Moo-hyun, he wields tremendous influence over the president's foreign policy thinking.

For now, Cheong Wa Dae brushed off his comments as his personal opinion, but there are widespread views that those views are shared by Cheong Wa Dae. If not, he would probably not have made the comments publicly.

Already President Moon said in a speech marking the 17th anniversary of the historic inter-Korean summit that Seoul is willing to engage the North in dialogue without conditions if it merely stops its nuclear and missile provocations. That weakens the entire approach to dealing with the nuclear crisis.

The Seoul-Washington summit is just around the corner, and already it looks fraught with difficulties. Clear differences in views are emerging. Unless both sides exercise modicum of wisdom, a security disaster could be in the works. Certainly any special adviser to the president needs to watch his mouth at a time like this.


DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kinetic Consulting Services, the leading boutique consulting company for business strategy and transformation released a new guide for CEOs and Board Directors on the importance of artificial intelligence in their business.

Kinetic Consulting Services Logo

The guide is designed to educate and raise awareness of the important role artificial intelligence is likely to have on corporate governance. The report makes the correlation between the primary fiduciary duty of CEOs and Board Directors, and the value offerings of A.I. software. The key obligation of CEOs and Directors is to ensure shareholder value is retained and the stock price increases in line with forecast results. The report argues that these obligations will not be met in the future, if the organisation does not have an A.I. strategy or cannot demonstrate the use of the software in both the operational area of the business and in forecast reporting.

"Unlike other software, A.I. specifically addresses the key areas of risk in the organisation that determine company valuations and stock price. The reduction of risk must be a key concern for CEOs and Directors, to enable them to meet their fiduciary obligations. Companies able to demonstrate the removal of human bias in their forecasts, and the application of A.I. in order to reduce wastage in their operations, will be preferred for investment over those without any use of A.I.," said Joe Tawfik, CEO of Kinetic Consulting Services.

Artificial Intelligence is deemed a disruptive technology because it offers organisations multiple options for transforming the customer experience and business models. The guide provides CEOs and Directors with examples of how A.I. is being used by different industry sectors to create new value offerings. These examples demonstrate how A.I. is integral in creating better performing businesses.



The cognitive capabilities of A.I. offer organisations the ability to make better decisions in almost all aspects of the business. These are the types of decisions that currently lead to variances in forecast performance and poor shareholder expectations. Once the investment community realises the value of businesses operated with the assistance of A.I, then A.I. usage will become a new standard in evaluation. Companies are urged to take affirmative action by reviewing their A.I. strategy to ensure they are meeting their long-term fiduciary obligations.

The future of good corporate governance must include a strategy that incorporates the use of A.I. to meet or exceed company objectives, leading to an increased shareholder value.

About Kinetic Consulting Services:

Kinetic Consulting Services is a boutique management consulting company providing services in a broad range of disciplines to commercial and government organisations. The company has offices in Dubai and Sydney Australia. The key area of expertise is strategy and business transformation. The company's focus is to help clients accelerate, optimise and transform their organisations better and faster.

Website: www.kineticcs.com

For more information, please contact:

Joe Tawfik

Media Officer

E: [email protected]

Contact:

U.A.E.: +971 4455 8410

Australia: 1300 780 556

U.S.A: +877-318-6826

SOURCE Kinetic Consulting Services

Related Links

http://www.kineticcs.com


The Astronautics AGCS system consists of an airborne server, wireless communications module, remote media device, and ground server software creating a complete air-to-ground, modular data transmission system. The system is expected to qualify by the end of 2018.

Airbus Helicopter operators will benefit in many ways from the AGCS, including: 1) secure protection of critical avionics from non-authorized access through implementation of a modern cybersecurity framework; 2) wireless access to operational and maintenance data in flight and on the ground; 3) capability to send and receive data through a variety of communication channels; and 4) the ability to store and retrieve hundreds of hours of operational data within the system.

"The Astronautics AGCS will provide Airbus Helicopters a connectivity solution designed specifically for helicopters with the latest certification regulations [Data Security CRI]," said Astronautics President Chad Cundiff. "Helicopter operators will realize enhanced operational and safety benefits through real-time data access. Plus, the AGCS' modular design and upgradeability will ensure the system can rapidly evolve to provide operators the latest, state-of-the-art digital innovation."

To learn more about the AGCS and its capabilities, visit Astronautics at the Paris Air Show, Hall 4, Booth F18, June 19-22, or contact [email protected].

About Astronautics Corporation of America

Astronautics Corporation of America, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a global leader in the design, development and manufacture of avionics equipment and systems for the commercial and military aerospace industry. Key product areas include electronic primary flight displays, engine displays, mission computers, electronic flight bags, and certified servers for airborne applications. Services include system integration and custom software for critical applications. Since its founding in 1959, Astronautics has been providing tailored engineering solutions to help clients achieve mission success. For more: www.astronautics.com.

SOURCE Astronautics Corporation of America
ANDOVER, Mass., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- BAO Inc., a company that helps organizations optimize sales productivity and marketing efficiency with real-time account-specific insights and appointment setting services, today announced the opening of its new office in Manchester, NH. Headquartered in Andover, MA, the expansion into New Hampshire supports the company's continuing growth with plans to hire 50 new employees  primarily inside sales professionals  at its new 6,600 square foot space. The Manchester office is located in the Jefferson Mill Building at 670 North Commercial Street and is the company's fourth office. Other locations include Norwood, MA opened in 2015 and Mesa, AZ opened in 2002.

"Manchester is the perfect location for us," said Jim Higgins, chief executive officer at BAO. "It is a college and technology city that offers the talent we're looking for to grow our company and the mill yard's transformation from textiles to technology is a great story."

According to BAO's Chief Operating Officer Michael Farrell: "After meeting with Michael Bergeron, the state's business recruiter and Governor Sununu, who took the time to visit us at our office in Massachusetts, we were convinced that New Hampshire was the right move for us."

Brian Giguere will lead the office as general manager. Giguere is a BAO veteran who has been with the company for more than 10 years in various sales leadership roles.

"I'm looking forward to building our team and introducing our company culture to Manchester," said Giguere. "What we do at BAO is more than a job  it is a passion and our colleagues are family. In fact, Jim Higgins even jokes that we have a family tree instead of an org chart."

BAO plans to occupy the new office space this summer and is now hiring. For information on job opportunities, visit their Careers page.

About BAO

BAO is the de facto partner for sales and marketing teams in the high-tech industry developing powerful, profitable go-to-market strategies. BAO gives organizations the real-time insight, tools, and resources they need to transform their businesses  to drive new revenue while increasing the profitability of existing accounts; to optimize sales and marketing operations; to kill the competition; or all of the above. Founded in 1997, BAO is based in Andover, Massachusetts. Learn more at www.baoinc.com.

CONTACT: Mike Farrell, BAO, Inc., [email protected], 978-763-7245

SOURCE BAO Inc.

Related Links

http://www.baoinc.com


LE BOURGET, France, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Norwegian today announced at the 2017 Paris Air Show that the carrier has selected Boeing to provide all its flight training needs.

Last year at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow, Norwegian committed to Global Fleet Care (formerly known as GoldCare) coverage for its 737 MAX fleet and expanded coverage for the airline's entire 787 fleet. These services agreements represented the largest commercial services order in Boeing history.

Today's announcement extends this further to now include all its flight training requirements across its Boeing fleet. In July, the work conducted under this contract will reside in Boeing Global Services, a new dedicated services business focused on the needs of global defense, space and commercial customers.

Boeing and Norwegian also announced an order for two additional 737 MAX 8s at the 2017 Paris Air Show. Valued at $225 million at current list prices, Norwegian now has 110 unfilled orders for 737 MAX 8s.

"By ordering two additional 737 MAX aircraft, we are taking another step towards replacing our current fleet with even more fuel efficient and more environmentally friendly aircraft. This allows us to enhance our operation and reap financial benefits," said CEO of Norwegian, Bjrn Kjos. "Norwegian's strategy is to operate and own the newest state-of-the-art fleet of aircraft, giving passengers high-quality comfort and the shareholders as high a return as possible."

Norwegian is the European launch customer for the 737 MAX and currently operates a fleet of more than 100 Next-Generation 737-800s across its short and medium-haul network. The Oslo-headquartered carrier also operates a combined fleet of more than a dozen 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners and has a further 19 unfilled orders for 787-9s.

"We are very pleased to provide pilot training to Norwegian with the industry's best flight training as they take a very exciting step in expanding their Boeing fleet," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Global Services. "Boeing is committed to giving our customers a competitive edge through services such as Global Fleet Care and our tailored training solutions, so that they can focus on keeping their pilots and airplanes in the air."

Norwegian is the sixth largest low-cost carrier in the world and flies over 500 routes to more than 150 destinations in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, the Caribbean and the US.

The 737 MAX family has been designed to offer customers exceptional performance, flexibility and efficiency, with lower per-seat costs and an extended range that will open up new destinations in the single-aisle market.

The 737 MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

It is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history.

Contact:

Daniel Mosely

Boeing Commercial Airplanes

International Communications

+44 (0)7780 481 228

[email protected]

SOURCE Boeing

Related Links

http://www.boeing.com


LE BOURGET, France, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) announced today that its portfolio of fleet services formerly known as GoldCare continues to realign to meet customer needs in the form of Boeing Global Fleet Care. This evolution reflects the fleet-wide nature of the service offering and aligns to the Boeing Global Services business unit, set to launch July 1.

"As our customer base and world-wide partner network has grown, realigning our global fleet services offering as Global Fleet Care was a natural next step," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Global Services. "We look forward to continuing support for customers through our comprehensive Boeing Global Fleet Care portfolio."

The Global Fleet Care designation better reflects the scope and breadth of the current fleet services portfolio, as Boeing and the services market continue to grow. This suite services, launched in 2005, continues to be a flexible, subscription-based maintenance services proposition for air operators.

The updated naming convention extends also to the three main Boeing Global Fleet Care service levels: Fleet Engineering Solutions, Fleet Material Solutions and Fleet Integrated Solutions.

Boeing Global Fleet Care provides point solutions in the form of Engineering, Materials and Maintenance programs for air operators, accomplished through the use of decades of fleet data management, industry-leading technologies, and proprietary analytics and processes.

Tailored to the individual airline, Boeing Global Fleet Care is a high-value, low-risk and efficient fleet maintenance operations solution that gives customers a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Boeing has substantially grown its Boeing Global Fleet Care subscriptions, providing support for more than 60 customers and over 2,500 airplanes.

With the Boeing Global Fleet Care service, Boeing delivers the operational economics committed to customers when they buy Boeing airplanes. Airlines trust Boeing Global Fleet Care services to deliver maintenance, engineering and parts required to run their airline's unique operations.

Boeing is a leader in providing 24/7 support and service to the global aviation industry. In addition to subscription-based maintenance services such as Boeing Global Fleet Care, Boeing offers the industry's largest portfolio of services including aftermarket parts, freighter conversions and interior modifications, engineering support, crew training, route planning, digital crew scheduling, advanced data analytics and software to enhance airlines and leasing company operations.

As of July 1, Boeing Global Fleet Care will reside in Boeing Global Services, a new dedicated services business focused on the needs of global defense, space and commercial customers.

Conrad Chun (At the Paris Air Show)

Boeing Global Services Communications

Mobile: +1 314-452-2294

[email protected]

Teresa Kuhn

Boeing Communications

+1 206-491-8681

[email protected]

SOURCE Boeing

Related Links

http://www.boeing.com


VANCOUVER, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - Callinex Mines Inc. (the "Company" or "Callinex") (TSX-V: CNX; OTCQX: CLLXF) is pleased to announce that it has added a second rig to its ongoing 2017 Bathurst drilling campaign (the "Campaign") at the Company's 100% owned Nash Creek Project located in the Bathurst Mining District of New Brunswick. To date, nine holes have been completed as planned to test for potential to expand the near-surface mineral resource further to the north (See News Release dated May 30, 2017). It is anticipated that an additional 15 drill holes will be completed with a concentrated focus on testing an area spanning 500m along strike from the extent of the current mineral resource (See Figure 1 and 2).

The Nash Creek Project is ideally situated approximately 1 km south of Provincial Highway 11, about 100 km by road to Trevali's Caribou Mine and 25 km by road to Glencore's Belledune lead/silver smelter, which has direct railway access to Glencore's Canadian zinc smelting and refining operations. Previous exploration has delineated mineralization over a 1.5km strike length and the project hosts an Indicated mineral resource totaling 712 million pounds of zinc equivalent mineralization and an Inferred mineral resource totaling 88 million pounds of zinc equivalent mineralization (see Table 1).

Following completion of the Nash Creek phase of the drilling campaign, the drill rigs will be mobilized to the nearby Superjack Project to test for high-grade extensions to the A Zone deposit (See Table 1). The two deepest holes drilled by a previous operator at the A Zone deposit, at a vertical depth of approximately 440m, intersected thick intervals of high-grade mineralization (See Figure 3):*

NP11-54 intersected 10.3m of 8.2% Zn Eq. (4.0% Zn, 1.7% Pb, 0.4% Cu, 53.3 g/t Ag and 0.3 g/t Au) including a higher-grade interval over 6.6m of 10.5% Zn Eq. (5.3% Zn, 2.2% Pb, 0.4% Cu, 69.0 g/t Ag and 0.5 gt/ Au).

NP11-39 intersected 11.2m of 7.6% Zn Eq. (5.0% Zn, 1.0% Pb, 0.2% Cu, 34.2 g/t Ag and 0.2 g/t Au) including a higher-grade interval over 2.6m of 17.6% Zn Eq. (15.0% Zn, 1.4% Pb, 0.3% Cu, 32.5 g/t Ag)

In addition to testing the A zone at greater depths, one hole will also test a 1,300 metre long by 800 metre wide gravity inversion anomaly that indicates the three known mineralized zones (A, B and C zones) all potentially connect at depth. The Superjack phase of the drilling campaign is anticipated to include 4 to 8 drill holes totaling 2,500m to 4,000m.

*Zinc equivalent grades are based on the following metal prices: zinc US$2,525/t ($1.15/lb), copper US$5,500/t ($2.49/lb), lead US$$2,205/t ($1.00/lb), gold US$1,300 per oz and silver US$18.0 per oz. Metal recoveries of 100% were applied in the metal equivalent calculations. The zinc equivalent calculation is as follows: ZnEq = 100 ((Au Price in (g) x Au Grade) + (Ag Price in (g) x Ag Grade) + (Cu Price*2204.6 x Cu Grade(%)/100) + (Zn Price*2204.6 x Zn Grade(%)/100)+(Pb Price*2204.6 x Pb Grade(%)/100))/Zn Price*2204.6

Jason Levers, PGeo, a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 and a Staff Geologist for Callinex, has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release.

Table 1: 2016 Mineral Resource Estimates for New Brunswick Projects

Indicated Mineral Resources Project Tonnes Zn Eq. (%) Zn (%) Pb (%) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Contained Zn Eq. ('000 pounds) Nash 9,033,000 3.58 2.79 0.57 18.16 n/a 711,991 Total 9,033,000 3.58 2.79 0.57 18.16 n/a 711,991



Inferred Mineral Resources Category Tonnes Zn Eq. (%) Zn (%) Pb (%) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Contained Zn Eq. ('000 pounds) Superjack 3,211,000 4.63 3.01 0.78 29.46 0.27 327,618 Nash 1,113,000 3.58 2.83 0.57 15.51 n/a 87,883 Total 4,324,000 4.36 2.96 0.73 25.87 0.20 415,501

Notes:

1) Resources are categorized according to CIM Definition Standards; it cannot be assumed that all or any part of Inferred Mineral Resources will be upgraded to Indicated or Measured as a result of continued exploration. 2) The Nash Creek mineral resource estimate includes the Hickey Zone and Hayes Zone 3) The Superjack mineral resource estimates includes the Nepisiguit A and Nepisiguit C Zones 4) Zinc equivalent resources for the Nash Creek Project were calculated using metal prices of $0.90/lb for zinc, $0.87/lb for lead, and 17.73/oz for silver. Metallurgical recoveries have been assumed to be 90.5% for zinc, 81.5% for lead and 50% for silver. A cut-off grade of 2.0% Zn Eq. was utilized in the resource estimate. 5) Zinc equivalent resources for the Superjack Project were calculated using metal prices of $1.12/lb for zinc, $1.06/lb for lead, $2.97/lb for copper and $20.38/oz for silver. Metal recoveries have been assumed to be 100% for zinc, 72% for lead, 86% for copper and 70% for silver. A cut-off grade of 1.5% Zn Eq. was utilized in the resource estimate.

Figure 1: Map of the Bathurst Mining District of Northern New Brunswick

Click the link below to view this figure:

https://callinex.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/NB-Overview-Map.jpg

Figure 2: Plan View of the Nash Creek Mineral Resources

Click the link below to view this figure:

https://callinex.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Plan-Map-of-Nash-Creek-Proposed-Drill-Holes.jpg

Figure 3: Long Section of the A Zone Deposit

Click the link below to view this figure:

https://callinex.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Plan-Map-of-Nash-Creek-Proposed-Drill-Holes.jpg

About Callinex Mines Inc.

Callinex Mines Inc. is focused on discovering and developing zinc and copper rich mines within prolific Canadian VMS mining jurisdictions. The Company is actively exploring its Pine Bay Project, located in the Flin Flon mining district of Manitoba, which hosts significant historic VMS deposits that are within close proximity to a processing facility. The larger project portfolio hosts three significant zinc rich mineral resources including the Point Leamington, Nash Creek and Superjack Projects located in Eastern Canada.

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.

Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to future expenditures. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include, among others, the ability to complete the proposed drill program and the timing and amount of expenditures. Except as required under applicable securities laws, Callinex does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

SOURCE Callinex Mines Inc.

Related Links

www.callinex.ca


Mr. Butler, with more than 34 years of experience, including 26 years at Chubb, most recently served as Chief Operating Officer, North America Field Operations. Prior to the ACE acquisition of Chubb in January 2016, he served as Executive Vice President and U.S. Field Territory Operations Manager for Chubb. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Glassboro State College and has attended Executive Management Programs at Wharton Business School.

Mr. Butler will report to John Lupica, Vice Chairman, Chubb Group, President, North America Major Accounts and Specialty Insurance. "Jerry's strong field management expertise, industry knowledge, and extensive leadership experience make him an ideal fit for this role," said Mr. Lupica. "I look forward to working with him as he takes on this strategically pivotal role in helping to continue meeting the multifaceted needs of our agent and broker partners."

Mr. Butler succeeds Harold Morrison who, after a distinguished 33-year career in the insurance industry, will retire at the end of the year. Mr. Morrison joined The Chubb Corporation in 1984 and during the course of his career has held a number of managerial and leadership positions for the company. Prior to the acquisition, Mr. Morrison was Executive Vice President of The Chubb Corporation and served as Chief Global Field Officer and Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the company's global field organization, worldwide human resources and the company's administrative areas.

Through the remainder of the year, Mr. Morrison will work with Chubb's Overseas General Insurance Division providing strategic direction for the development of underwriting and distribution structures and processes to best serve its expansion into the commercial middle market segment in Asia, Latin America and Europe. This work will include ensuring appropriate organizational structures, distribution and product strategies, service capabilities, and technology solutions.

"Harold's commitment and contributions to Chubb during his tenure have been outstanding. He has been a thoughtful and collaborative partner to me and our broader team since the merger and I look forward to working with him and Jerry on a smooth transition in addition to his continued endeavors for the company," said Mr. Lupica. "On behalf of the senior management team and all of Chubb, we thank him for his contributions and wish him all the very best during retirement."

Succeeding Mr. Butler is Jeffrey Updyke, Chief Operating Officer, North American Field Operations. In his new role, reporting to Mr. Butler, Mr. Updyke will assist in the day-to-day management of the North American Field Operations, with specific focus on distribution management, data analytics and sales. In addition, he will oversee Chubb Insurance Solutions Agency.

Mr. Updyke is a 26-year insurance professional, most recently serving as Executive Vice President, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager for Chubb's Commercial Insurance unit. Prior to the acquisition, he was the Northeast Region Chief Operating Officer. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with honors from St. Lawrence University.

About Chubb

Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London and other locations, and employs approximately 31,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at www.chubb.com.

Chubb Insurance Company of Canada has offices in Toronto, Calgary, Montreal and Vancouver and provides its products and services through licensed insurance brokers across Canada. For additional information, visit: chubb.com/ca.

SOURCE Chubb

Related Links

http://www.chubb.com


BRIDGEPORT, W.Va., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Citynet announces today its acquisition of StratusWave Communications from Gateway Telecom, LLC, a privately held telecommunications company based in Wheeling, West Virginia. This purchase allows Citynet to continue to broaden its service footprint while also expanding the services available to current StratusWave customers and the Wheeling business segment overall.

Citynet Headquarters in Bridgeport, WV

Citynet, headquartered in Bridgeport, West Virginia, is a leading provider of telecommunications services. Such services include phone, ultra-high-speed broadband, unified communications (seamless communications between devices and delivery methods: phone, video, messaging, web conferencing, etc.) and IT managed services solutions to small and medium-sized businesses across West Virginia.

"This transaction will expand our breadth of service, increasing our ability to provide Citynet's portfolio of advanced technology services to business customers in the Wheeling market. The transaction also will enable us to leverage StratusWave's experienced sales force and office staff to help expand the Citynet footprint," said Jim Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Citynet.

Craig Behr, a Wheeling native and Senior Vice-President of Strategic Sales for Citynet says, "StratusWave's services and its attractive customer base are a natural fit for our strategic direction. We look forward to combining forces with their team to continue expanding our technology portfolio to businesses by delivering best-in-class services to customers across the greater Wheeling area."

Key offerings now available from Citynet to the Wheeling market include:

A wide range of feature-rich business phone systems and service

Blazingly fast broadband Internet

Worry-free network security, monitoring, and management

Virtual private networks (VPN)

Data center/colocation

Hosted Microsoft 365, hosted Exchange and other cloud computing services

Citynet will maintain StratusWave's existing/former Wheeling office location at 1025 Main Street, as well as welcoming StratusWave's employees into the Citynet family. StratusWave President and CEO H. "Rusty" Irvin III will oversee Citynet's daily operations in the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia.

"We are excited to move forward as one company positioned for continued success," said Irvin. "Together, we are proud to offer a complete menu of business technology services to better serve our customers as they compete in a hyper-connected economy. We'll be able to draw from each other's experience with a new enthusiasm to the benefit of our customers. This is an exciting time for our companies, and will prove to be for our customers as well," says Irvin.

For more information, please contact:

Todd Dlugos

Chief Financial Officer, Citynet

[email protected]

304.554.0550 ext. 6120

About Citynet

Based in Bridgeport, West Virginia, Citynet is a leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions for consumers, businesses, enterprise organizations and wholesale customers in West Virginia. Core services include network-based business communications: voice and data communications, broadband Internet, hosted VoIP systems, data services and a full suite of IT managed network services: managed network, managed security, and cloud computing services, all designed to meet the unique application requirements of diverse workforce groups.

Citynet continues to invest in and aggressively expand its wholly-owned fiber-optic network in the North Central West Virginia region, lighting up the cities of Morgantown, Bridgeport, Clarksburg, Fairmont and Philippi with fiber-optic services. Citynet is proud to power the first "Gigabit City" in West Virginia (Bridgeport, WV), as well as the first gigabit-powered resort in the state (Snowshoe Mountain Resort) and provides gigabit services to the town of Philippi, West Virginia.

The company partners with the best and most trusted names in technology, such as Cisco, Microsoft, Barracuda, VMware, Dell and more. Citynet' s engineers and technicians hold an impressive array of professional technology certifications and undergo constant training.

Citynet's customers benefit from its around-the-clock, award-winning customer service, based out of the company's corporate headquarters in Bridgeport, West Virginia.

Related Links

Citynet Web Site

SOURCE Citynet
PHILADELPHIA, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Analytics today announced that it has renewed its partnership with Royal Philips through a multi-year agreement. Through this partnership, Royal Philips' Intellectual Property and Standards organization uses Derwent Innovation, helping create and protect Royal Philips' intellectual property. Derwent Innovation is the premier IP research and analytics tool based on the Derwent World Patents Index ("DWPI"). Royal Philips, and hundreds of other organizations, trust and rely on its data quality and accuracy for making important IP and innovation decisions.

Established in 1891 and headquartered in the Netherlands, Royal Philips is a focused leader in health technology. With over 120 years of history, the company has a rich heritage in innovation and one of the largest and most valuable IP portfolios in the world.

"The IP&S organization at Royal Philips has a long, proud history of being among the best globally in the development and execution of a robust and multi-faceted IP strategy," said Brian Hinman, Chief IP officer, Royal Philips. "This starts with an organization that provides detailed, world-class IP, business and market intelligence coupled with deep IP analytics expertise. By combining our in-house solutions with superb external toolsets such as those offered by the Clarivate Analytics suite of products, we are able to excel in securing high quality IP data utilized in each of our IP business processes."

"We are delighted to continue our alliance with Royal Philips by delivering high quality IP intelligence that supports and protects their leadership in innovation and IP commercialization," said Dan Videtto, President of the IP & Standards business at Clarivate Analytics. "Royal Philips and many of our other clients alike are changing the world and advancing the way we live every day. As the leading provider of IP search and analytics solutions, we remain committed to our continuous product innovation through Derwent's investment in technology, analytics and content to support our clients across the IP lifecycle."

As an extension of their partnership, Royal Philips is participating on a panel that Clarivate Analytics is moderating at the Intellectual Property Business Congress (IPBC) in Ottawa, Canada. The session, titled Where Innovation meets IP, focuses on the success of the IP program at Royal Philips and other Clarivate Analytics Top 100 Global Innovator companies. Hinman will be among five senior IP executives discussing their roles in capturing innovation and maximizing its value. The panel discussion will be held today from 11 am  12:30 pm ET.

Panel participants also include, Kelvin Vivian, Director of Intellectual Property at Marvell Semiconductor, Marie H. MacNichol, Chief Licensing Officer at InterDigital and Ludovic Hamon, Deputy Director of the Industrial Partnership and Transfer of Innovation department at Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and Philip S. Johnson, former Senior Vice President and Chief IP Counsel, Johnson & Johnson.

Clarivate Analytics will also host a plenary session, The US pendulum at IPBC on June 20 from 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm ET. Speakers will discuss and analyze the state of patent reform in a post-election world.

Learn more about Derwent World Patents Index and Derwent Innovation.

Clarivate Analytics

Clarivate Analytics accelerates the pace of innovation by providing trusted insights and analytics to customers around the world, enabling them to discover, protect and commercialize new ideas faster. Formerly the Intellectual Property and Science business of Thomson Reuters, we own and operate a collection of leading subscription-based businesses focused on scientific and academic research, patent analytics and regulatory standards, pharmaceutical and biotech intelligence, trademark protection, domain brand protection and intellectual property management. Clarivate Analytics is now an independent company with over 4,000 employees, operating in more than 100 countries and owns wellknown brands that include Web of Science, Cortellis, Derwent, CompuMark, MarkMonitor and Techstreet, among others. For more information, please visit clarivate.com.

Media Contact

Heidi Siegel

Director, External Relations

+1 215 823 5646 (o)

+1 215 356 4504 (m)

[email protected]

Jennifer Figueroa

Media Relations

+1 203 824 6261 (m)

[email protected]

SOURCE Clarivate Analytics

Related Links

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Premier Li Keqiang urged more efforts to be put into optimizing the business environment several times in the past week.

At the teleconference on government function reform on June 13, Premier Li spoke highly of Chinas performance in recent years to create favorable business environment. He said that the facilitation of doing business in China has obviously improved and the ease of doing business in China experienced a big jump in global ranking, especially in promoting entrepreneurship.

He added, however, that the country should still see the gaps and realize that China falls behind even many developing countries in this area and emphasized the role of the business environment in stimulating better productivity.

China will strive to create a more favorable business environment to attract investments, the Premier said during the Second Global Overseas Chinese Industry and Commerce Convention in Beijing on June 12.

At the State Councils executive meeting on June 7, where it was decided to establish more demonstration bases for mass innovation and entrepreneurship, the Premier stressed the importance of providing a supportive environment, including a hard and soft environment for attracting both foreign investment and talent.

Optimizing the business environment has always been Premier Lis focused issue.

Take his recent visit to the European Union (EU) as an example. He again mentioned this subject during a meeting with Chinese and European entrepreneurs in Brussels and promised to further expand Chinas opening up.

At two executive meetings in April and May, Premier Li said that with the rising global competition, government at all levels should take action to maintain a good market expectation while enhancing market confidence.

To achieve such results, China needs to further deepen administrative reform, which includes delegating power, strengthening regulation and optimizing service, and continuing to provide a supportive environment for businesses, Premier Li said.

While noting the importance of such a task, Premier Li also required related departments to attach great importance to gaining global competitiveness.

To enhance global competitiveness, China should create a more international, legalized and facilitated business environment and lower the institutional costs, Premier Li said.

Besides the fierce global competition, the pressing need for the reform also comes from the demands of domestic enterprises to lower burdens.

According to the Premier, many enterprises CEOs have said that enterprises have benefited from the policy of reducing tax and lowering fees, while suggesting that the government should further lower institutional costs.

Premier Li urged that government should issue policies that can target enterprises needs and focus on the administrative reform.

At the teleconference on government function reform on June 13, Premier Li also said improving the business environment means further streamlining administration, strengthening related supervision and regulations, and continuously optimizing services.

Some regional governments have put forward new measures to upgrade the business environment after studying the World Banks indicators on enterprises business environment, he said.

Such ideas should be advocated among regional governments. While trying to attract investment, local governments should also learn new methods to create a favorable business environment, the Premier added.
CINCINNATI, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CommuniCare, one of the nation's largest privately owned skilled nursing companies, will host educational programs, awareness efforts and more in honor of its first #WhoIsYourHero campaign effort beginning on June 15, 2017. The first #WhoIsYourHero campaign was established to raise awareness and inspire gratitude for heroes in our community.

Throughout the month of July, CommuniCare will come together to find heroes across 60 centers telling stories through online and in-facility submission forms, along with community events. The combined efforts of all facilities and contributors will help raise awareness about how CommuniCare supports veterans and heroes, especially through programs like Honor 360. CommuniCare's staff will be reading through all submissions in an effort to choose one overall winner, the CommuniCare Hero.

Honor 360 is designed to care for the complex medical needs of veterans, including traumatic brain injuries, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), amputations and other combat-related injuries. Services include: skilled rehabilitation, long-term care, respite care, hospice, wound care and pulmonary and cardiac care. The mission of Honor 360 is to provide specialized services and emotional support to tend to the needs of veterans in a post-acute setting.

Executive Vice President of CommuniCare, Isaac Rosedale, ignited the #WhoIsYourHero efforts with his personal hero story about his father, President and CEO of CommuniCare, Steve Rosedale.

"As a young man, following the Vietnam War with eyes glued to the news, hearing the plight of his brethren fighting for peace in a faraway land; he could take it no longer. With a fire in his heart and a resolve to stand proud with his country, he voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army and joined the forces in Vietnam. With a fire in his heart and a resolve to stand proud with his country, he voluntarily enlisted in the United States Army and joined the forces in Vietnam."

"He worked in a state mental hospital as an aide. He pursued a philosophy of care that would one day pave a new road for an entire industry," says Rosedale.

"He continued to follow his heart as he found an opportunity to join the long-term care industry and starting from just one facility, built an empire of care, serving residents, employees and their families to the tune of tens of thousands of people, holding on tight to his philosophy of care. Never willing to stray from what is true and just; he wears honesty and faith as his stripes and will not forsake them even for his life. This man is my father and I am proud to say, he is my hero."

All 60 CommuniCare facilities will participate in themed events for each week during the month of July. The activities at the centers will include, but are not limited to: picnics, pinning ceremonies, storytelling, a red, white, and blue dress down, educational events, donations, letter writing, and visits from local influencers.

The #WhoIsYourHero contest will accept hero submissions until June 30, 2017. The CommuniCare family including employees, residents, and the surrounding communities to submit an entry form to their local CommuniCare facilities. The contest will conclude with one overall CommuniCare Hero.

To learn more or to get involved with #WhoIsYourHero, please visit www.communicarehealth.com or www.facebook.com/CommuniCareFamily/. If you would like to submit a Hero for consideration, please visit: http://www.communicarehealth.com/services/hero-submission-form/.

About CommuniCare:

CommuniCare Family of Companies is a privately held, multi-faceted health care management company, which owns and manages 60 world-class nursing and rehabilitation centers, specialty care centers and assisted living communities throughout Missouri, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

SOURCE CommuniCare
VANCOUVER, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - As required by the Toronto Stock Exchange, the following sets forth the voting at the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders of Copper Mountain Mining Corporation (TSX: CMMC) (the "Company" or "Copper Mountain") held on June 14, 2017 in Vancouver, British Columbia on the election of directors. A total of approximately 34,800,911 common shares (26.15% of the outstanding common shares) were represented in person or by proxy at the meeting.

The following seven nominees were elected as Directors of the Company to serve until the next annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company, or until the successors are elected or appointed, by the following votes:

Name of Nominee Votes For Percent Votes Withheld Percent James O'Rourke 32,178,166 99.74 82,670 0.26 Rodney Shier 26,211,203 81.25 6,049,633 18.75 John Tapics 32,043,566 99.33 217,270 0.67 Marin Katusa 31,632,116 98.05 628,720 1.95 Carl Renzoni 32,057,066 99.37 203,770 0.63 Al Cloke 31,562,466 97.84 698,370 2.16 Bruce Aunger 31,628,935 98.04 631,901 1.96

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP were re-appointed auditors of the Company with a 98.03 % vote of approval. The Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation was also passed with a 68.50% vote of approval.

During the Annual General Meeting, Mr. O'Rourke presented the Company's updated presentation and fielded questions. Mr. O'Rourke noted that the mill had successfully completed the planned major maintenance job in late April ahead of schedule and that the mill averaged 43,500 tpd throughput during the month of May. May production was reported as 7.2 million pounds of copper, 2,600 ounces of gold and 25,000 ounces of silver. Mr. O'Rourke indicated that mining activities also continued to operate well above plan and averaged 197,500 tpd moved during the month of May.

Mr. O'Rourke also provided an update on exploration activities that were announced in early May and are now well underway with two diamond drill rigs drilling at the mine. Mr. O'Rourke noted that the exploration program has a three-pronged approach: 1. Drilling in the Eastern end of Pit 2 to test the deeper mineralization, 2. Drilling the Western end of Pit 2 expanding the ultimate pit westward, and 3. Infill drilling of the saddle area South West of Pit 2. Mr. O'Rourke commented: "the mine provides a solid base for future growth for all stakeholders and exploration at the site has historically been very successful. With the strengthening copper price, the Company is very comfortable reinvesting in our large land package for future growth".

About Copper Mountain Mining Corporation:

Copper Mountain's flagship asset is the Copper Mountain mine located in southern British Columbia near the town of Princeton. The Company has a strategic alliance with Mitsubishi Materials Corporation who owns 25% of the mine. The Copper Mountain mine has a large resource of copper that remains open laterally and at depth. This significant exploration potential will be explored over the next few years to fully appreciate the property's full development potential. Additional information is available on the Company's web page at www.CuMtn.com.

On behalf of the Board of

COPPER MOUNTAIN MINING CORPORATION

"Rod Shier"

Rod Shier, CPA,CA

Chief Financial Officer

Website: www.CuMtn.com Note: This release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements may differ materially from actual future events or results. Readers are referred to the documents, filed by the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, specifically the most recent reports which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to review or confirm analysts' expectations or estimates or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statement.

SOURCE Copper Mountain Mining Corporation

Related Links

http://www.CuMtn.com


The kimono is a traditional and beautiful Japanese garment that is adored by women in Japan and around the world. However, many have given up on trying to wear them due to factors including the complexity of the kimono fitting process, the difficulty of learning the required techniques, as well as the tightness of the garment and the way it restricts movement.

To help women overcome such difficulties, BIBILAB decided to create a garment that looks just like a kimono but feels as comfortable as a pair of pajamas. This resulted in the creation of the Comfy KIMONO Pajamas, a new type of room wear that simplifies the difficult fitting process, eliminates the discomfort caused by traditional kimonos, and maintains its shape even after movement and lying down. As described on the crowdfunding project page, simply "Wear it, tie it, wrap it, and you're done!"

[Product Features]

Fewer parts and fewer steps

The Comfy KIMONO Pajamas features only two parts: the easy-to-wear kimono itself and accompanying obi sash. Users can wear it in less than a minute by putting on the kimono, tying the strings together, and wrapping the obi sash around their waist.

Lined and wearable on its own

The Comfy KIMONO Pajamas are lined, which means that users can wear them over underwear or even without anything underneath, making them perfect for warmer weather. There is no need for users to worry about it being see-through.

Free from tightness and discomfort

To make the Comfy KIMONO Pajamas as comfortable and relaxing as a pair of pajamas, sources of tightness and pressure that would exist in traditional kimonos have been removed. Also, the obi sash is fitted with elastics to provide stretch and comfort for a wide variety of waist sizes.

Beautifully detailed for an authentic look

Modifications such as faux-ohashori detailing and a lowered back collar have been made to make the Comfy KIMONO Pajamas look just like standard kimonos.

Through the Comfy KIMONO Pajamas, BIBILAB aims to make Japanese and kimono culture accessible to even more people around the world.

Brand: BIBILAB Product Name: Comfy KIMONO Pajamas Designs and Colors: Hydrangea (Navy & Gold)

Morning Glory (White & Pink)

Goldfish (Aqua & Beige) Crowdfunding Website: https://miraimode.com/projects/comfy_KIMONO_pajamas BIBILAB Website: http://www.bibilab.jp/campaign/wcl_en/

[Inquiries]

Company: Tokyo Otaku Mode Inc.

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE be-s Co., Ltd
PHILADELPHIA, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Crown Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CCK) will release its earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2017 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday, July 19, 2017. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss these results at 9:00 a.m. (EDT) on Thursday, July 20, 2017.

The dial-in numbers for the conference call are (630) 395-0227 or toll-free (888) 606-8412 and the access password is "packaging". A replay of the conference call will be available for a one-week period ending at midnight on July 27, 2017. The telephone numbers for the replay are (203) 369-1363 or toll free (866) 462-8977. A live webcast of the call will be made available to the public on the internet at the Company's website, www.crowncork.com.

Crown Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading supplier of packaging products to consumer marketing companies around the world. World headquarters are located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

For more information, contact Corporate Communications at (215) 698-5351.

SOURCE Crown Holdings, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.crowncork.com


(Photo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524354/Giles_Bryan.jpg )



ContactEngine reduces the need for outbound and inbound call-center activity, optimizes corporate operations, and perfects customer journeys through pro-active omni-channel customer conversations.

The corporation already has an established roster of clients including Whirlpool, Virgin Media, Sky, Walmart and British Gas, with operations in the UK, Italy, Germany and Brazil.

The US expansion comes off the back of a $3 million Series A from venture capital firms Beringea and Amadeus Capital. The US headquarters in Washington DC will focus on winning business in the telecoms, cable, home services, utilities and white good sectors, with ContactEngine having already secured an initial contract with one of the largest US telecommunications corporations.

Giles Bryan, one of the three co-founders of ContactEngine, will spearhead the US expansion. A seasoned entrepreneur with a strong technical background (a pre-IPO member of MicroStrategy Inc), Giles is able to drive innovation into the gap between corporates and their customers, to the benefit of both.

Giles Bryan, Chief Commercial Officer at ContactEngine, said: "Building on our success in Europe, we have identified a market gap and a clear demand for our technology in the US. People shouldn't need to select services based on how they are being looked after. Instead, given the available corporate data and personal comms channels, everyone should have every reason to expect perfect service 100% of the time. It's my great pleasure to return to the US armed with ContactEngine's conversational technology, and help make perfect customer journeys a reality."

Dr. Mark K. Smith, CEO of ContactEngine, said: "Our US expansion comes off the back of several great years in Europe. As a company that delivers efficiencies for consumer-facing businesses as well as optimizing the customer experience, we've determined that there is huge requirement for our technology across the US. We've already started to work with some of the largest businesses in the country, and achieving a significant presence in the US is the next step to rolling out ContactEngine worldwide."

About ContactEngine

ContactEngine is a customer-conversation management platform. Pro-active and omni-channel, ContactEngine leverages natural-language processing and machine-learning so that global brands can transform their customer journeys. ContactEngine disrupts traditional call-centers, being a fraction of the cost to deploy and run, but with three times the customer engagement rate of its manual call-center predecessors. This means that as well as being lower cost, ContactEngine can drive corporate KPI's harder and faster, as well as improving the customer experience.

SOURCE ContactEngine
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Supporting the communities DENSO serves and providing resources for the next generation of technical workers to succeed are core to DENSO's success. To fulfill these promises, DENSO's philanthropic arm  the DENSO North America Foundation (DNAF)  funds programs across the continent each year providing hands-on learning opportunities in areas from robotics and thermodynamics to design and materials development.

On May 22, the DNAF board confirmed its 2017 college and university grants: nearly $1 million in overall funding for 22 institutions and educational programs across North America.

"Innovation throughout the manufacturing industry will continue to produce more growth opportunities for students in skilled trades and technical fields," said Doug Patton, president of the DENSO North America Foundation and executive vice president of Engineering at DENSO International America, Inc. "Companies will lean on this young workforce for years to come, and in order to succeed we need to empower students by giving a better sense for what they'll experience in the workplace."

"The automotive industry relies more and more on those with expertise in fields like robotics and electrical engineering and mechanical engineering," said David Cole, DENSO North American Foundation board member. "Supporting STEM education enables DENSO to develop the next generation of talent needed to fill these roles. It also helps students find ways to translate their passion and skills into opportunity after graduation."

Since 2001, the DNAF has advanced the auto industry through grants to colleges and universities, providing students with technology, tools, and experiences similar to that of the professional workplace they'll experience after graduation. The proposal process for these education grants is invite only, and all proposals are evaluated based on technical merit, student experience, and alignment with industry needs.

This year's grant recipients include:

Arkansas Northeastern College

Arkansas State University

California State University  Long Beach

 Long Beach Cleveland State Community College

CONALEP Technical College

Conestoga College

East Tennessee State University

FIME  Mechanical and Electrical Engineer College

Kettering University

Lawrence Technological University

Michigan State University

Michigan Technological University

North Carolina State University

Northeast State Community College

Oakland University

Tennessee Technological University

Trine University

University of Guelph

University of Kentucky

University of Tennessee  Chattanooga

 University of Tennessee  Knoxville

 Western Michigan University

About the DENSO North America Foundation

A registered 501(c)3 corporate foundation, the DENSO North America Foundation is dedicated to helping students advance their education in engineering, technology and other related programs. Founded in 2001, the Foundation provides grants to colleges and universities throughout North America, helping our communities prosper through the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. The Foundation also provides disaster relief grants through the American Red Cross to aid persons and communities in which DENSO Corporation operates. For more information, visit http://densofoundation.org.

About DENSO in North America

DENSO is a leading global automotive supplier of advanced technology, systems and components in the areas of thermal, powertrain control, electronics and information and safety. With its North American headquarters located in Southfield, Michigan, DENSO employs more than 23,000 people at 30 consolidated companies and affiliates across the North American region. Of these, 28 are manufacturing facilities located in the United States, Canada and Mexico. In the United States alone, DENSO employs more than 17,000 people in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Iowa, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. DENSO's North American consolidated sales totaled US$9.6 billion for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2017. For more information, go to www.denso.com/us-ca/en. Connect with DENSO on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DENSOinNorthAmerica.

SOURCE DENSO

Related Links

http://www.denso.com


SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The portfolio of fully-leased medical office properties included Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital and Physicians Pavilion in Sugar Land; and UT Physicians facilities in Sugar Land and Richmond.

Everest Medical Properties Everest Medical Properties

The largest not-for-profit health system in Southeast Texas, Memorial Hermann Healthcare System has 12 hospitals and numerous specialty programs and services located throughout the Greater Houston area. Memorial Hermann  Texas Medical Center is the primary teaching hospital for The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) Medical School.

"We are excited to enter into this transaction," said David Lynn, PhD, CEO of Everest Medical Properties. "We believe these assets, with their strong tenancy and strategic locations, are an excellent addition to our portfolio of assets under management."

Key Deal Highlights

Four near-campus medical office buildings with a state-of-the-art surgical hospital and an outpatient surgery center

Key tenancy includes investment grade rated University of Texas Physicians (Aaa) and Memorial Hermann Hospital System (A1)

Physicians (Aaa) and Memorial Hermann Hospital System (A1) 147,000 rentable square feet currently 100% occupied with 6.7 years of average remaining term and a majority of current leases featuring annual rent bumps

Affluent location with average household income exceeding $100K , and +14% population growth projected through 2021

About Everest Medical Properties

Everest Medical Properties is an institutional real estate manager focusing on medical real estate properties across the United States. Its mission is to provide high current and total returns to institutional investors by acquiring and adding value to high-quality medical office properties.

For more information on Everest Medical Properties, visit www.everestmcp.com or contact us at [email protected].

Media contact:

Mark Luger

[email protected]

480-291-3502

SOURCE Everest Medical Properties

Related Links

http://www.everestmcp.com


Layn R. Phillips, founder of Phillips ADR Enterprises (PADRE), is both a former United States Attorney and a former United States District Judge in Oklahoma City. He also sat by designation on the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit in Denver, Colorado, where he participated in numerous panel decisions and published multiple opinions. In 1991, he resigned from the federal bench and joined Irell & Manella, where for 23 years he specialized in complex civil litigation, internal investigations, and alternative dispute resolution.

Pierre M. Gentin is a partner in the litigation practice group of Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP, representing clients in non-public disputes, litigation, investigations, and regulatory enforcement matters, with a focus on the financial services sector. Before joining Cahill, Mr. Gentin served for nearly two decades in senior legal and risk positions at Credit Suisse AG, including as Global Head of Litigation, Regulatory Investigations and Employment Law, and Head of Reputational Risk for the Americas. Mr. Gentin is a former Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

Jill R. Sperber is a seasoned neutral and member of the American College of Civil Trial Mediators. Ms. Sperber has been involved in the mediation and/or arbitration of more than five hundred disputes, frequently involving financial services matters. Prior to founding Sperber Dispute Resolution, Inc., and affiliating with ADR service provider Judicate West, Ms. Sperber honed her mediation and arbitration skills during her practice as a neutral in the Irell & Manella Alternative Dispute Resolution Center. Previously, Ms. Sperber litigated high stakes, complex business matters at Irell & Manella and at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton.

Lindsay R. Goldstein is a Vice President of Credit Suisse in the General Counsel division, based in New York. Ms. Goldstein is a member of the Litigation & Investigations Group, where she manages a complex docket of civil litigation in the Americas, including matters with cross-border implications. Prior to joining Credit Suisse in 2011, Ms. Goldstein was an associate at Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP and a judicial clerk in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

About Practising Law Institute  www.pli.edu

Practising Law Institute is a nonprofit learning organization dedicated to keeping attorneys and other professionals at the forefront of knowledge and expertise. PLI is chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York, and was founded in 1933 by Harold P. Seligson. The organization provides the highest quality, accredited continuing legal and professional education programs in a variety of formats, which are delivered by more than 4,000 volunteer faculty, including prominent lawyers, judges, investment bankers, accountants, corporate counsel, and U.S. and international government regulators. PLI publishes a comprehensive library of Treatises, Course Handbooks and Answer Books, also available through the PLI PLUS online platform. The essence of our mission is a commitment to the pro bono community, with over 78,000 program scholarships awarded in 2016.

SOURCE Practising Law Institute

Related Links

http://www.pli.edu


CAMBRIDGE, Mass., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- GNS Healthcare (GNS), a leading precision medicine company, today announced a collaboration with Genentech, a member of the Roche Group to leverage GNS REFS (Reverse Engineering and Forward Simulation) causal machine learning and simulation platform to power the development of novel cancer therapies. The GNS technology turns large and diverse patient data streams into mechanistic computer models that reveal new pathways, novel targets, and diagnostic markers that may lead to new treatments that are better matched to individual patients.

The companies will collaborate to unlock knowledge from various data resources such as longitudinal electronic medical records (EMR records), next generation sequencing, and other 'omic data. The REFS technology uses a unique hypothesis-free approach that reverse-engineers causal biological and clinical models from large scale data streams, and then simulates interventions into those models to unravel the hidden drivers of cancer progression and drug response at the patient level. The discovery of these hidden drivers aims to enhance the ability to elucidate disease mechanisms, identify new targets, and stratify patient populations more accurately.

The alliance with GNS will provide Genentech with a powerful tool to find and validate potential new drug candidates and patient response markers using its growing volume of genomic and real-world data. The collaboration will first focus in oncology, where Genentech and GNS will use REFS to spot the underlying drivers of some of the most challenging diseases. The parties will investigate factors that impact efficacy of known therapies to generate insights that would inform research and development of next-generation cancer treatments.

"As the race to match patients with the right therapies continues, pharmaceutical companies are looking for innovative approaches to harness the unprecedented volume of data at their fingertips," said Iya Khalil, PhD, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of GNS Healthcare. "We are excited to partner with Genentech to apply GNS' breakthrough REFS causal machine learning and simulation platform to illuminate the underlying drivers of disease, stratify patients more accurately, and accelerate the development of novel therapies to treat cancer."

About GNS Healthcare

GNS Healthcare applies causal machine learning and simulation technology to predict which treatments will work for which patients, improving individual patient outcomes and the health of populations, while reducing the total cost of care. The GNS technology is based on its MeasureBase data integration architecture and patented REFS (Reverse Engineering and Forward Simulation) causal inference and simulation engine. Health plans, bio-pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, foundations, academic medical centers, and self-insured employers use GNS' cloud-based solutions to solve pressing and costly problems including those surrounding metabolic syndrome, medication adherence, end-of-life care, preterm birth, personalized care pathways in specialty care, oncology, and diabetes, new drug target discovery, patient stratification in clinical trials, and more. GNS solutions focus on reducing adverse events, slowing disease progression, and improving therapeutic effectiveness through precision matching that maximizes impact on individual patient health outcomes while reducing wasteful spending and downstream medical costs. For more information, visit: www.gnshealthcare.com.

Media Contact

GNS Healthcare

Lauren Kannry

Public Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE GNS Healthcare

Related Links

http://www.gnshealthcare.com


TSX: GPR

NYSE MKT: GPL

VANCOUVER, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - GREAT PANTHER SILVER LIMITED (TSX: GPR; NYSE MKT: GPL) ("Great Panther"; the "Company") announces that surface drilling at its San Ignacio Mine, part of the Guanajuato Mine Complex (the "GMC"), has confirmed the continuation of strong gold-silver mineralization along strike of the current mine workings.

The drilling, which is ongoing, initially targeted the southeasterly strike extension of the Melladito vein structures, in particular, where this vein set is intersected and cut by, the Plateros vein trend. The result of this intersection is a thickening of the veins, highlighted by hole ESI16-174, which returned a combined estimated true width of 19.24 metres averaging 6.36g/t gold (Au) and 261g/t silver (Ag). This comprised 4.65 metres of 4.81g/t Au and 275g/t Ag in the Melladito vein and 14.59 metres of 6.86g/t Au and 257g/t Ag in the Plateros vein. The extent of this thicker portion of vein intersection is not yet known and additional drilling and mine development will be required to determine its size and significance. Nonetheless, several other holes returned excellent indications of high gold and silver grades as presented in the table below.

"We are encouraged by the continuation of mineralization to the southeast of our mine workings, with the Plateros vein locally exhibiting very high grades, particularly in gold," stated Robert Archer, President & CEO. "The results of our exploration drilling have given us sufficient confidence to commence drifting in that direction to further evaluate and delineate these zones from underground."

The surface exploration drilling program began in October 2016 and comprised 32 holes for 7,464 metres to April 24th 2107, at a horizontal and vertical spacing of approximately 50 metres. Hole ESI16-174 was drilled approximately 400 metres grid south of the current mine workings and step out drilling continued sporadically along strike for another 900 metres. Drilling has now changed focus to the Purisima vein, approximately 650 metres to the west of the current mine workings.

Highlights of Initial Phase of 2016-17 San Ignacio Surface Exploration Drilling

Hole

From

(m) To

(m) Width

(m) True

Width

(m) Au g/t Ag g/t Ag eq g/t

(70:1) Vein ESI16-160

51.00 51.80 0.80 0.80 2.41 34 203 Melladito I

76.20 76.70 0.50 0.47 1.86 340 470 San Pedro II



















ESI16-161

66.65 70.08 3.43 0.48 1.30 130 220 Melladito including 67.15 68.15 1.00 0.14 2.49 195 369

89.10 93.00 3.90 2.99 2.18 100 252 Melladito I including 90.80 93.00 2.20 1.68 3.68 160 418





















ESI16-162

63.70 64.70 1.00 1.00 1.08 333 409 Melladito

64.70 67.00 2.30 2.30 old stope on Melladito

67.00 68.93 1.93 1.90 0.70 180 229

193.90 194.40 0.50 0.43 0.24 260 277 San Pedro IV



















ESI16-163

123.12 124.22 1.10 0.78 9.95 783 1480 Melladito

126.75 127.25 0.50 0.35 5.61 142 535 Melladito I



















ESI16-164

176.20 180.40 4.20 3.68 1.51 194 300 Melladito including 179.34 180.40 1.06 0.91 5.87 672 1083

184.59 185.65 1.06 0.92 5.50 139 524 Melladito I

189.35 190.44 1.09 0.83 8.41 127 716 San Pedro III including 189.35 189.88 0.53 0.41 15.91 202 1316





















ESI16-165

120.10 121.73 1.63 1.25 0.33 194 217 Melladito



















ESI16-166

216.04 216.84 0.80 0.73 1.45 360 462 Plateros



















ESI16-167

210.00 211.72 1.72 1.69 0.82 231 289 Plateros

291.60 299.72 8.12 6.65 2.54 18 196 Melladito II including 291.60 295.14 3.54 2.90 4.04 22 305

also including 298.10 299.72 1.62 1.33 3.44 41 282





















ESI16-168

221.45 223.79 2.34 2.03 10.77 278 1032 Plateros including 221.98 223.79 1.81 1.57 13.90 356 1329



















ESI16-171

189.00 190.14 1.14 0.87 1.18 800 883 Plateros



















ESI16-172

132.25 132.75 0.50 0.25 2.17 140 292 Melladito

140.20 144.09 3.89 2.75 2.04 67 210 Melladito I including 140.20 141.53 1.33 0.94 3.79 115 380

also including 143.57 144.09 0.52 0.37 5.07 188 543



156.40 156.97 0.57 0.28 3.45 16 258 San Pedro II

165.85 166.85 1.00 0.42 2.05 92 236 San Pedro III



















ESI16-174

92.86 100.10 7.24 4.65 4.81 275 612 Melladito / Melladito I including 95.00 100.10 5.10 3.28 6.78 383 858 including 97.62 100.10 2.48 2.55 14.32 475 1477

100.10 122.80 22.70 14.59 6.86 257 737 Plateros including 105.00 116.45 11.45 7.36 10.41 322 1051





















ESI17-175

96.85 97.68 0.83 0.64 3.42 474 713 Melladito I



















ESI17-176

146.10 147.40 1.30 0.75 16.34 1059 2203 Plateros



















ESI17-177

147.85 154.65 6.80 3.40 1.86 206 337 Plateros including 152.10 153.83 1.73 0.87 5.10 497 854



















ESI17-179

172.66 177.10 4.44 3.85 0.84 112 171 Plateros

228.41 229.78 1.37 0.69 2.10 58 205 San Pedro II

248.77 249.48 0.71 0.36 3.14 23 243 San Pedro III



















ESI17-180

202.90 206.28 3.38 2.77 0.93 81 146 Melladito I

208.15 208.65 0.50 0.45 0.32 28 50 San Pedro II

214.10 214.60 0.50 0.45 0.35 418 443 San Pedro III



















ESI17-181

208.75 216.03 7.28 5.41 0.92 206 271 Melladito / Melladito I



















ESI17-182

255.95 257.11 1.16 0.86 3.79 140 405 Melladito

258.06 259.93 1.87 1.43 2.22 78 233 Melladito I



















ESI17-183

254.43 257.84 3.41 2.72 2.76 47 240 Melladito / Melladito I



















ESI17-184

208.03 209.92 1.89 1.64 1.02 184 255 Melladito / Melladito I

214.04 216.14 2.10 1.48 1.26 148 236 San Pedro III



















ESI17-186

254.05 256.35 2.30 1.81 4.26 97 396 Melladito / Melladito I

257.73 259.1 1.37 1.21 1.56 93 202 San Pedro II

259.61 260.4 0.79 0.72 1.83 153 281 San Pedro III



















ESI17-187

148.60 149.33 0.73 0.56 3.18 223 446 Plateros

200.25 207.82 7.57 3.67 5.60 127 519 Melladito / Melladito I including 201.18 204.43 3.25 1.63 9.46 135 797

also including 204.93 205.43 0.50 0.25 9.61 330 1003





















ESI17-189

215.09 219.41 4.32 1.83 11.05 160 933 Melladito / Melladito I

The Company's QA/QC program includes the regular insertion of blanks, duplicates, and standards into the sample shipments; diligent monitoring of assay results; and necessary remedial actions. Sample assaying was completed at the independent SGS-GTO lab in Guanajuato, GTO, Mexico. Silver assaying was conducted with AAS12B technique, with over-limits (150g/t) completed by FAG323. Gold assaying was conducted with FAA313 technique, with over-limits (10g/t) completed by FAG323.

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Robert F. Brown, P. Eng., who is the Qualified Person (QP) for the GMC under the meaning of NI 43-101. Aspects relating to mining and metallurgy are overseen by Ali Soltani, Chief Operating Officer for Great Panther.

ABOUT GREAT PANTHER

Great Panther Silver Limited is a primary silver mining and exploration company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange trading under the symbol GPR, and on the NYSE MKT trading under the symbol GPL. Great Panther's current activities are focused on the mining of precious metals from its two wholly-owned operating mines in Mexico: the Guanajuato Mine Complex, which includes the San Ignacio Mine; and the Topia Mine in Durango. In addition, the Company has signed an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the Coricancha Mine Complex in the central Andes of Peru and is pursuing additional mining opportunities in the Americas.

Robert Archer

President & CEO

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (together, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements to be materially different. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the Company's plans for production at its Guanajuato and Topia Mine in Mexico, including plans for drilling and resource delineation and the overall economic potential of its properties. These involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements to be materially different. These include, among others, risks and uncertainties relating to potential political risks involving the Company's operations in a foreign jurisdiction, uncertainty of production cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, operating or technical difficulties in mineral exploration, development and mining activities, physical risks and hazards inherent in mining operations, currency fluctuations, fluctuations in the price of silver, gold and base metals, exploration results being indicative of future production of its properties, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, permitting risks, and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Company's most recently filed Annual Information Form and Material Change Reports filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators available at www.sedar.com and reports on Form 40-F and Form 6-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov.

SOURCE Great Panther Silver Limited

Related Links

http://www.greatpanther.com


PORTLAND, Ore., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Greenspoon Marder is proud to support the Oregon Cannabis Association (OCA) 3rd Annual National Lobby Days in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, June 21 and Thursday, June 22. The trip will bring more than thirty Oregon cannabis businesses to the nation's capital to lobby in favor of protecting state's rights, access to banking services and changing the unfair tax provisions applied to marijuana businesses. This year the group will also be working on veteran's access and hemp.

Amy Margolis, a shareholder with Greenspoon Marder's Cannabis Law practice group and executive director of the OCA, says that this trip makes an enormous impact on the perspective Congress takes when it comes to cannabis. "This is our third trip of Oregon cannabis business leaders. This industry is desperately in need of changes that only Congress can make and the OCA feels it is crucial to dedicate time and resources to bringing this message directly to D.C."

Greenspoon Marder has expanded the firm's Cannabis Law practice group to become the most dedicated national law firm providing comprehensive legal support to this burgeoning industry. "As part of growing our robust cannabis practice, our firm has made a commitment to support the industry at the lobbying level. Greenspoon Marder is standing behind the cannabis industry not only as legal professionals, but politically in helping raise awareness and advocating for these necessary changes in legislation. I am looking forward to being there myself to directly advocate alongside business enterprises," says Gerry Greenspoon, co-managing director of the firm.

This trip is especially crucial because of the many challenges the new administration brings to cannabis legalization. Due to the nature of this Congress and the position the Trump administration has taken through his signing statement and the Department of Justice, the OCA will be focusing more time and energy on discussing state's rights, public safety and economic fairness- messaging that the organization is hoping will resonate with Republicans.

"When you see states like Florida, Ohio and Arkansas moving forward to build cannabis programs, it is clear the tide has turned in favor of legalization, " says Hunter Neubauer an OCA member and co-owner of Oregrown. "As more states come online the lack of banking and unfair tax treatment of these businesses becomes even more apparent. We need change now and that's what we plan to tell Congress."

The OCA will be participating in more than forty lobbying meetings as well as briefings and evening events in order to reach the largest number of D.C. decision makers.

About Greenspoon Marder

Greenspoon Marder is committed to providing excellent client service through our cross-disciplinary, client-team approach. Our goal is to understand the challenges that our clients face, build collaborative relationships, and craft creative solutions designed and executed with long-term strategic goals in mind. Since our inception in 1981, Greenspoon Marder has become a full-service, Am Law 200 and NLJ 350 ranked law firm with more than 200 attorneys. We serve Fortune 500, middle-market public and private companies, start-ups, emerging businesses, individuals and entrepreneurs across Florida and the United States. For more information, visit www.gmlaw.com.

SOURCE Greenspoon Marder

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ONTARIO, Calif., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- HANSUN Window Regulator, an ISO/TS 16949 Certified Taiwan Manufacturer of Window Regulators, announces a new and redesigned website with ACES vehicle lookup (www.hanyale.com). HANSUN's year-make-model vehicle database search allows users to quickly view a list of window regulators that fit their specific vehicles.

Among the features offered by HANSUN's new website are:
TROY, Mich., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- HBPO, the auto industry's leading supplier of modular front-end systems, is expanding its North American footprint  adding two new plants, developing additional product offerings and increasing unit sales.

Anja Sprenger, president of HBPO North America, said the company plans to add "just in sequence" production facilities next year to support two major auto makers with assembly plants in Aguascalientes and Saltillo, Mexico.

Production of front-end modules for FCA's Chrysler Pacifica models began last year at an HBPO plant in Windsor, Canada, and a third shift recently was added at a company plant opened last year in San Jose Chiapa, Mexico, to support nearby Audi Q5 assembly operations.

A third shift also was recently added to HBPO's Toluca, Mexico, plant that supports FCA.

Sprenger said HBPO unit sales in North America are expected to grow from sales of 883,000 units in 2016 to more than 1.4 million units in 2017, while employment will climb by nearly 50 percent from 450 employees in 2016 to more than 650 in 2017.

She noted that HBPO plans a multi-million-dollar investment in research-and-development activities, new product launches and plant additions in North America over a five-year period, including a major expansion of the company's plastic molding operations to support a new product line in 2018.

Known primarily as an assembler of complex front-end modules, HBPO added a center console in North America last year and will begin molding an active grille shutter for a major car maker in North America next year.

The company also is actively developing front-end modules designed to reduce weight and lower costs for a variety of electric vehicles. It expects to produce its first electric-vehicle front-end module later this year.

In addition, HBPO would like to expand its product offerings to include instrument-panel or cockpit modules. The company recently was awarded a contract to design, develop and produce a complex cockpit-module for a European car maker that will go into production in Germany in 2019.

HBPO's North American operations currently include headquarter offices and product development facilities in Troy, Michigan, and production facilities in Windsor, Canada, as well as plants in Puebla, San Jose Chiapa and Toluca, Mexico.

Based in Lippstadt, Germany, HBPO North America expects to build nearly 1,400,000 complex front-end modules this year accounting for more than 20 percent of the company's front-end module production globally.

With just three hours of advance notice from a customer, HBPO is able to deliver just-in-sequence front-end modules for vehicles coming down a customer's final assembly line. The process can involve the management of more than 200 individual components for 250 or more variations of a single front-end module.

"By sourcing front-end modules from HBPO, a car maker can eliminate five or more work stations and up to 100 or more operations on its final assembly line," Sprenger said. "We are a proven systems integrator with a global reputation for quality and innovation, among other advantages and benefits."

About HBPO GmbH:

HBPO GmbH, Lippstadt: HBPO is the only company in the world that specializes in the design, development, assembly and logistics for complex front-end modules. A global market leader for front-end modules, the company reported sales in 2016 of 1.8 billion euros. HBPO has more than 2,000 employees worldwide annually producing more than 5.3 million front-end modules per year at 25 JIS (just-in-sequence) manufacturing facilities and eight development sites in North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

Founded as partnership between HELLA and Behr in 1999, the company's name changed to HBPO when Plastic Omnium joined the partnership in 2004. The company also has joint venture programs in Korea and Malaysia.

HBPO's global customer portfolio of automotive brands includes Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Mercedes, Mini, Nissan, Porsche, Proton, Renault, SEAT, Skoda, SsangYong and Volkswagen. Additional information is available online at www.hbpogroup.com.

SOURCE HBPO

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http://www.hbpogroup.com


THE HAGUE, The Netherlands, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

More than 10,000 hematology professionals from around the world will gather and discuss the latest developments in hematology research and clinical practice. The 22nd Congress of the European Hematology Association at the Feria de Madrid (IFEMA), Madrid, Spain will be home to these discoveries, a selection of which will be presented to the media.

(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524821/EHA_Logo.jpg )



These developments cover a vast range of scientific topics from leukemia and lymphoma to platelet disorders, sickle cell disease, and bleeding disorders. They will be shared with the media during two EHA Press Briefings on June 23 and 24.

Prof Elizabeth Macintyre of Hopital Necker-Enfants Malades et Universite Paris, France will moderate the first day of press briefings on Friday, June 23, from 08:30-10:00 hours CEST in Room Neptuno of the IFEMA .

Paul Hamlin will present his findings on the efficacy of cerdulatinib in 37 patients with different types of lymphoma who did not respond to standard treatment. Michaela Kotrova will prove that the more T-lymphocytes differ, the more effectively they fight against leukemia. Julia Hauer will talk about the relationship between delayed exposures to common infections and acute leukemia in children. Bill Lundberg will put the spotlight on CRISPR/Cas9 technology and its role in treating sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Finally, Shailaja Hegde will share the secrets of long-term platelets storage leading to an improved capacity to meet platelet transfusion needs.

Prof Anton Hagenbeek of Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands will moderate the second day of press briefings on Saturday, June 24, from 08:30-09:30 hours CEST in Room Neptuno .

This day starts with Peter Borchmann showing how metabolic response determination by FDG-PET allows substantial reduction of chemotherapy in patients with advanced stage Hodgkin lymphoma which ultimately leads to a better patient survival. Yi Lin will present the results from the primary analysis of ZUMA-1, a CAR-T-cell therapy for patients of aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma with response rate 7-fold higher compared to historical controls. Alejandro Lazo-Langner will present data that can change the way cancer patients of 65 years and older are treated with anticoagulants, possibly preventing mortality. Iskra Pusic will demonstrate the results of a phase 2 clinical trial where chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) patients positively respond to ibrutinib. Finally, Gilles Salles will bring hope to patients with B-cell lymphoma as he will present how manufactured CAR-T-cells can be highly effective as a new form of immunotherapy.



A complete description of these and all other congress abstracts are available here.

Our embargo policy applies to all selected abstracts in the Press Briefings. For more information, check our Congress Media Guidelines here. The program of the 22nd Congress of EHA can be found here.

SOURCE European Hematology Association
The ViewRay MRIdian Linac  is the world's first and only FDA-approved commercially available linear accelerator-based MRI-guided radiation therapy system that can image and treat patients simultaneously. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the company's next generation model for use in February.

That next generation model is being installed at the Cancer Institute at Henry Ford Medical Center-Cottage in Grosse Pointe Farms. It will be ready for treating patients in July 2017.

Benjamin Movsas, M.D., chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at the Cancer Institute and a national expert, says the system offers "game-changing technology" in radiation therapy.

"This is the future in our field," Dr. Movsas says. "This technology will allow us to optimize in real-time the delivery of radiation."

Dr. Movsas says while the system will be used to treat all types of cancers anywhere in the body, it is especially beneficial for tumors where there is typically movement during treatment, including tumors in the liver, pancreas, adrenal and lung. Other types of cancer this advanced system will deliver a new level of care to include breast, prostate, kidney, and gynecologic cancers, among others.

Indrin Chetty, Ph.D., division head of Physics in Radiation Oncology, says the MRIdian Linac system further enhances radiation therapy with:

Personalized treatment . By continuously observing and assessing the patient's tumor and internal organs, clinicians can tailor treatment to each individual.

. By continuously observing and assessing the patient's tumor and internal organs, clinicians can tailor treatment to each individual. Precision and accuracy . High-quality images and continuous soft-tissue imaging are provided while the radiation beam is on.

. High-quality images and continuous soft-tissue imaging are provided while the radiation beam is on. Real-time imaging. When clinicians can clearly see the target and watch where the radiation is being delivered, they are better able to adapt to changes in the patient's anatomy.

Over the years, technology has improved the accuracy of radiation treatment while protecting surrounding healthy tissue. However, trying to accommodate for the natural movement of a tumor and the body's internal organs during treatment has been elusive.

"We believe our system will lead to a new standard of care in radiation oncology," says Chris Raanes, president and CEO of ViewRay. "With ViewRay's first generation MRIdian system clinicians saw for the first time how much tumors and organs move and change shape during the course of treatment."

The ViewRay system combines the effectiveness of MRI, which produces high-quality images of organs and structures inside the body, with a linear accelerator to map out a therapy plan and deliver radiation at the intended target, while allowing for refinements to be made in real-time during treatment. The result is a more accurate, precise treatment.

"Our Department of Radiation Oncology has a long tradition of expertise using the most advanced radiation technologies, and the ViewRay system offers our patients another optimal treatment for achieving the best care possible," says Steven Kalkanis, M.D., medical director of the Cancer Institute.

Nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients in the United States will receive some form of radiation therapy during their course of treatment. In use for more than 100 years, radiation therapy damages the genetic material in cancer cells and helps to prevent the cells from growing and spreading. Treatments are delivered using specialized procedures to enhance their safety and effectiveness.

For patients interested in learning more about ViewRay: Call (888) 777-4167 or visit www.henryford.com/preciseradiation

About the Henry Ford Cancer Institute

The Henry Ford Cancer Institute is one of the largest cancer programs in Michigan, providing care at four hospitals and four outpatient facilities throughout southeast Michigan. Treatment for the most complex or rare cancers and the Institute's extensive cancer research program is anchored by Henry Ford Hospital. For more information, visit www.henryford.com/cancer.

SOURCE Henry Ford Cancer Institute
NAPLES, Fla., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As part of its ongoing commitment to provide best-in-class academic programs to its students, Hodges University has announced its intention to formally affiliate with TCS Education System. As an affiliate, Hodges will join a select group of independent, private non-profit institutions that includes The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Dallas Nursing Institute, Pacific Oaks College, the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law, and Saybrook University.

"We are thrilled with this new partnership and see Hodges University, the students we serve, and the communities of Southwest Florida benefitting in several important ways," said Dr. Donald Wortham, president of Hodges University. "First, through partnership with TCS affiliate schools, Hodges has the opportunity to bring new academic and workforce development options to our region, and also to reach new students in the markets served by other affiliates. Second, TCS Education System sustains the mission of colleges in its network by providing best-in-class faculty development, student services, and other operational support. Lastly the partnership allows Hodges to gain the benefits of scale that are so important in today's competitive higher education sector, while remaining independent."

Through affiliation with TCS, Hodges will gain access to operational support in 11 functional areas that include marketing, information technology, student account services, finance, and legal services.

"Joining TCS is the right move at the right time. The support that my late husband Earl and I have given to Hodges University has focused on providing excellent educational opportunities so our students can achieve their career goals and improve their lives," said Thelma Hodges, namesake of Hodges University. "In the healthcare field where I worked as a nurse, it is common for hospitals to join together to share services and to collaborate, and universities should do the same. It's for this reason that I believe the affiliation with TCS Education System will greatly enhance the academic programs our university can offer to students in Southwest Florida."

"This latest development signifies an important milestone in our System's evolution and the advancement of our mission," says Dr. Michael Horowitz, president of TCS Education System. "The strategic addition of Hodges University as a TCS partner college promises to meaningfully enhance our System with both geographic and demographic diversity, and expanded academic disciplines within the TCS portfolio. We see students as change agents, and we are thrilled to add more than 1,500 agents of change to the TCS family. I see the missions of Hodges University and the System as highly aligned as we are all dedicated to creating positive change in local and global communities through excellence in higher education."

Hodges University will seek approval of the affiliation by its regional accreditor, the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges (SACS COC) and other regulatory bodies, and is hopeful for an affirmative decision by early 2018.

About Hodges University

Hodges University, a private, nonprofit institution of higher learning, was founded in Naples, Florida in 1990 as International College. In 2007, International College was renamed Hodges University in honor of benefactors Earl and Thelma Hodges, long-time residents of Naples and supporters of Hodges University. Hodges' mission is to provide transformation learner-driven educational opportunities. To accomplish this mission Hodges' schools offer a variety of academic programs online and on the Fort Myers and Naples campuses. Hodges University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, bachelor's and master's degrees. To learn more about Hodges University visit https://www.hodges.edu/

About TCS Education System

TCS Education System (TCS) is a nonprofit system of colleges that was launched in 2009 to advance student success and community impact. Currently, the System spans five colleges, campus locations across 12 cities and a community of more than 30 global academic partners to fulfill the aspirations of approximately 7,000 students. The TCS model provides its colleges with the scale of resources necessary to succeed, including admissions and enrollment services, finance and accounting, information and learning technology, marketing, strategic initiatives, compliance and legal services, human resources, and global engagement among other areas of professional expertise. The System was founded on the belief that by sharing administrative resources and allowing colleges to concentrate on providing students with quality, social change-focused education, we can give each member of our community the power to change the world. TCS colleges include The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Pacific Oaks College & Children's School, The Santa Barbara & Ventura Colleges of Law, Dallas Nursing Institute, and Saybrook University. To learn more, watch our System video and explore our community at www.tcsedsystem.edu

SOURCE TCS Education System

Related Links

http://www.tcsedsystem.edu


HINGHAM, Mass., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Hollywood Public Relations, an integrated public relations and communications agency, today reveals its new brand under the name Hollywood Agency. The change celebrates the firm's evolution from a traditional PR shop to a fully integrated communications agency.

Supported by the launch of a new website and brand identity, the new direction positions Hollywood Agency as a national presence in the consumer goods and business services industries. Further supporting the agency's growth, Hollywood Agency has also expanded its presence with a new Boston-area headquarters and west coast office, adding a physical footprint to reflect and service its global clientele. A key promotion at the director level rounds out a first quarter that has the agency poised for explosive growth in 2017 and beyond.

"As we've grown and become more integrated, we've added capabilities and services that enable us to deliver truly multi-channel programs for our clients. Our identity now needs to reflect that evolution," said agency Principal Darlene Hollywood. "The new Hollywood Agency brand better demonstrates not only the services we offer, but also the unique culture we've worked hard to build  one that's fun, creative, team-oriented and built on a passion for our work."

To mark the firm's growth, the agency has relocated its headquarters from Plymouth to Hingham's waterfront within The Launch at Hingham Shipyard. The new space was designed with the agency's daily operations and unique culture in mind, allowing for creativity and productivity while maintaining the agency's hallmark waterfront views. Quick access to Boston and nearby cities via public transportation makes the location even more convenient for both employees and clients.

In addition, Hollywood Agency has established a bi-coastal presence with the opening of a San Francisco office led by agency veteran Brooks Wallace. The firm's second location is a strategic move to support the agency's national presence and build out a west coast practice. The team will support clients across both coasts, while being perfectly positioned to work with Silicon Valley-area innovators who are disrupting their markets and changing the way we live, work and play.

Hollywood Agency has also promoted Monica Higgins to account director. With stints at some of New York and Boston's most renowned agencies, Monica brings big-budget experience to the agency. Well into her second decade of promoting reputably established companies, her eclectic portfolio includes work with apparel and accessories, toys and juvenile products, and consumer electronics brands.

More about Hollywood Agency's vision, capabilities, work, leadership and unique personality is available on the new website, hollywoodagency.com.

About Hollywood Agency

Hollywood Agency is a nationally-recognized integrated communications firm that specializes in making brands famous. With a focus on partnering with compelling brands whose culture and values mirror its own, Hollywood Agency works with innovators in the consumer goods and services, technology and healthcare industries. Named one of the fastest-growing private companies in Massachusetts for two years running, Hollywood Agency has earned more than two dozen industry awards and has offices in Boston and San Francisco. To learn more, visit hollywoodagency.com or follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Media Contact :

Deanna Haas

781.749.0077 ext. 23

[email protected]

SOURCE Hollywood Agency

Related Links

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AUSTIN, Minn., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- During the Hormel Foods (NYSE: HRL) 2017 Investor Day at the New York Stock Exchange in New York City, New York, Jim Snee, president and chief executive officer, and Jim Sheehan, senior vice president and chief financial officer and nine other senior managers provided insights on the company's strategies for driving sales and earnings growth into the future. Snee also detailed plans for delivering on the company's stated long-term growth goals.

More information on the event, including an archived version of the broadcast, can be found at http://investor.hormelfoods.com/.

About Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $9 billion in annual revenues across 75 countries worldwide. Its brands include SKIPPY, SPAM, Hormel Natural Choice, Applegate, Justin's, Wholly Guacamole, Hormel Black Label and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of "The 100 Best Corporate Citizens" by Corporate Responsibility Magazine for the ninth year in a row, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. In 2016, the company celebrated its 125th anniversary and announced its new vision for the future - Inspired People. Inspired Food. - focusing on its legacy of innovation. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com and http://2015csr.hormelfoods.com/.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information based on management's current views and assumptions. Actual events may differ materially. Please refer to the cautionary statement regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors that appear on pages 32-38 in the company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 30, 2017, which can be accessed at www.hormelfoods.com under "Investors-SEC Filings."

Investor Contact: Media Contact: Nathan P. Annis Wendy A. Watkins Hormel Foods Hormel Foods 507-437-5248 507-437-5345 [email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation

Related Links

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WASHINGTON, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- President Trump is having a formal White House meeting with tech CEOs today. According to the news media, one question tech employers were asked to be prepared to discuss with the President was: "How can the H-1B visa program be modified to ensure that visas are issued to the highest-skilled and highest-paid workers, while also eliminating examples of the program's abuse?"

"Everyone knows what needs to be done  and in fact, the President has promised to do it," IEEE-USA's director of government relations Russ Harrison explained. "First, kill H-1B outsourcing. That will free up 50,000 H-1Bs a year for American employers who recruit out of US universities, so any increase in H-1Bs is unnecessary."

"It would also be counterproductive," Harrison pointed out, "because more H-1Bs waiting for green cards just increases the already huge backlogs of hundreds of thousands of indentured foreign-born tech workers. That creates both a barrier to real immigration and an obvious disincentive to hire Americans."

"We told then President-elect Trump in December how to kill outsourcing," Harrison went on to explain. "Because the H-1B lottery, the mechanism by which outsourcers dominate the program, was created by regulation, the President can start keeping his campaign promise to protect American high-tech employers by simply putting outsourcing companies to the back of the line."

IEEE-USA sent a memo to President Trump's staff in January, and a draft interim regulation to USCIS in February explaining how to do this.

"We look forward to helping the President keep his campaign promise to kill H-1B outsourcing," said Harrison. "We will work with him to end the H-1B lottery next year, which does not require Congressional action."

"The President however, does need Congress to prioritize immigration over temporary visa. The IEEE-USA was instrumental in getting an overwhelming bipartisan vote in the House twice back in 2012 to set aside 55,000 green cards a year for international students with advanced STEM degrees from American schools. That is how they (Congress) can fix the high-skill visa system so that it serves all Americans."

"We look forward to the President working with us to keep his promises on high skilled immigration, not only protecting US workers but recruiting from American schools to create and keep high paying jobs in the US."

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 190,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE.

Web: www.ieeeusa.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ieeeusa

Twitter: www.twitter.com/ieeeusa

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ieeeusa/

Join IEEE: www.ieee.org/join

SOURCE IEEE-USA (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

Related Links

http://www.ieeeusa.org


ICT Health LLC provides a comprehensive array of integrated clinical and administrative solutions to leading healthcare service providers in the UAE. In addition to offering both on-premise and cloud deployable Health IT systems, the company's roadmap for the year is focused on delivering various mobile services across iOS and Android platforms. Furthermore, ICT Health has recently launched an enterprising Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution taking patient care beyond hospital boundaries. ICT Health is set to empower digital health communities through its distributed healthcare solution offering, which caters to entire ecosystem of healthcare and is essential for patient safety and coordinated care.

Accepting the recognition, Mr. Fareed Al Hinai, Vice Chairman, ICT Health LLC said, "On behalf of my team, I would like to thank the jury, Frost & Sullivan & all our client partners for being awarded as the best #HealthIT company in the UAE 2017. It is indeed a huge privilege as the UAE is acknowledged as the trendsetter & reference benchmark for #DigitalHealth in the MENA region. This recognition reflects our track record constructed upon best practices gained from enterprise solution deployments at Cleveland Clinic - Abu Dhabi, Aster DM Healthcare, IHD Dubai, Narayana Health, Corniche Hospital Abu Dhabi, Breach Candy, Neotia Healthcare, Ministry of Health Oman, etc. For us, these have been invaluable learning experiences & we now have the credibility to be preferred as your ICT solution partner."

Extending his hearty congratulations to ICT Health on wining the award, Mr. Sandeep Sinha, Vice President, Transformational Health Practice, Frost & Sullivan said, "2016 has been a very successful year for ICT Health. The company has demonstrated a growth rate of nearly 47% across the GCC. In 2016, ICT Health's star-selling products were HINAI Web, HINAI ImageNet and HINAI View. The company has installed its services across more than 125 sites (hospitals/facilities). Furthermore, with its commitment to drive innovation and achieve clinical excellence, ICT Health proves to be one of the preferred choices of leading healthcare providers in the UAE. ICT Health's key products and services, which include HIMS, Teleradiology, RIS PACS, Web portals and mobile apps, have rapidly gained commercialization success across the UAE and other regions."

Frost & Sullivan Awards recognises companies across regional and global markets for outstanding achievement and performance in a range of industrial sectors for superior leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development.

Frost & Sullivan's robust research methodology represents the analytical rigour of our research process. It offers a 360-degree view of industry challenges, trends, and issues by integrating all 7 of Frost & Sullivan's research methodologies. Too often, companies make important growth decisions based on a narrow understanding of their environment, leading to errors of both omission and commission. Successful growth strategies are founded on a thorough understanding of the market and an in-depth analysis of the associated best practices and technical, economic, financial, customer-related and demographic factors. The integration of these research disciplines into the company's 360-degree research methodology provides an evaluation platform for benchmarking industry participants and for identifying those performing at best-in-class levels.

About ICT Health

ICT HEALTH is the preferred choice of dynamic care delivery organizations, looking to empower their care practices & operations with smarter technology accelerators that directly result in improved outcomes. The 100+ care delivery centers across India, Middle East & Africa utilize the company technology and services to improve specific key performance indicators relevant to their care operations. www.icthealth.com

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants. For more than 50 years, we have been developing growth strategies for the global 1000, emerging businesses, the public sector and the investment community. Is your organization prepared for the next profound wave of industry convergence, disruptive technologies, increasing competitive intensity, Mega Trends, breakthrough best practices, changing customer dynamics and emerging economies?

For Frost & Sullivan

Anita Chandhoke

Corporate Communications

C: +91 99161 33311

P: +91.80.6702 8020

E: [email protected]

http://www.frost.com

Twitter: @Frost_Sullivan

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/frostandsullivan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/4506/

For ICT Health

Rishabh Sharma

Communications Lead

P: +971508018725

E: [email protected]

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ict_health

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/icthealthcare/

Linkedin: http://ae.linkedin.com/company/ict-health

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan

Related Links

http://www.icthealth.com


IRVINE, Calif., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Irvine Technology Corporation, a national brand, becomes a Women Owned and Certified Business by Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Irvine Technology Corporation (ITC) is now able to assist clients with their growing need for national diversity spend as it relates to onboarding new technology focused employees. Nicole McMackin President and CEO of ITC said, "We are thrilled to be able to offer technology resources that enable supplier diversity success for our clients. Within the last five years many progressive companies have set forth a diversity inclusion program to ensure their corporations are being proactive in onboarding diverse suppliers and employees to meet the growing needs of their consumer base. ITC is committed to aiding in their success."

Corporations have taken a keen interest in working with diversity suppliers. Great results have been seen across America and in the board rooms in utilizing these groups of individuals. Dan Palone President of Magnaflow headquartered in Oceanside, Calif. said, "At Magnaflow we are thrilled to take advantage of utilizing a company like Irvine Technology Corporation that will help diversify our employee base. Diversification is critical in our growth, expansion and the overall development within our industry." Many CEO's of Fortune 500 companies are taking a similar stance. They are finding that diversification of their supplier base as well as internal employees leads to better financial results coupled with a more satisfied employee base.

Benefits to corporations who use diversity suppliers are as follows:

The ability to create different perspective, through thought and creativity all leading to potential new innovation.

Drive competition of goods and services.

Proven commitment to serve a diverse group of clientele.

Highlights a companies' interest in economic growth for all groups of people.

About Irvine Technology Corporation

ITC is a privately held and certified woman owned business that focuses on IT Staffing and Solutions nationwide. For more information, please visit www.Irvinetechcorp.com

SOURCE Irvine Technology Corporation

Related Links

http://www.irvinetechcorp.com


SAN FRANCISCO, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A new study suggests that most people with acute conjunctivitis, or pink eye, are getting the wrong treatment. About 60 percent of patients are prescribed antibiotic eyedrops, even though antibiotics are rarely necessary to treat this common eye infection. About 20 percent receive an antibiotic-steroid eyedrop that can prolong or worsen the infection. The study is now online in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. This is the first study to assess antibiotic use for pink eye in a large, diverse segment of the United States. The findings are consistent with a nationwide trend of antibiotic misuse for common viral or mild bacterial conditions. It's a trend that increases costs to patients and the health care system and may promote antibiotic resistance.

Researchers at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center looked at data from a large managed care network in the United States. They identified the number of patients who filled antibiotic eyedrop prescriptions for acute conjunctivitis. Then they evaluated the characteristics of patients who filled a prescription compared with those who did not.

Of approximately 300,000 patients diagnosed with acute conjunctivitis over a 14-year period, 58 percent filled a prescription for antibiotic eye drops. Among them, 20 percent filled a prescription for an antibiotic-steroid combination. Antibiotic-steroid drops are inappropriate for most patients with acute conjunctivitis because it may prolong or exacerbate certain types of viral infection.

Even more troubling, the authors found that the odds of filling a prescription depended more on a patient's socioeconomic status than the patient's risk for developing a more serious eye infection. For example, patients who wear contact lenses and those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS.

Pink eye affects 6 million people in the United States each year. There are three types: viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis. Antibiotics are rarely necessary to treat acute conjunctivitis. Most cases are caused by viral infections or allergies and do not respond to antibiotics. Antibiotics are often unnecessary for bacterial conjunctivitis because most cases are mild and would resolve on their own within 7 to 14 days without treatment.

The study also found:

Primary care providers (family physicians, pediatricians, internal medicine physicians, and urgent care providers) diagnose a majority (83%) of patients. Only a minority were diagnosed by eye care providers such as ophthalmologists or optometrists.

Patients diagnosed by a primary care or urgent care provider were two to three times more likely to fill prescriptions for antibiotic eye drops than patients diagnosed by an ophthalmologist.

Patients who filled antibiotic prescriptions were significantly more likely to be white, younger, better educated, and more affluent than patients who did not fill prescriptions.

"This study opens the lid on overprescribing of antibiotics for a common eye infection," said lead author Nakul S. Shekhawat, M.D., M.P.H. "It shows that current treatment decisions for pink eye are not based on evidence, but are often driven more by the type of health care practitioner making the diagnosis and the patient's socioeconomic status than by medical reasons. The potential negative consequences are difficult to justify as we move toward focusing on value in health care."

The authors say there are several reasons why antibiotics are over prescribed. It is a challenge to differentiate bacterial conjunctivitis from the viral and allergic forms. All three types may have overlapping features, such as a red eye, thin discharge, irritation, and sensitivity to light. Health care providers may tend to "err on the side of caution" and prescribe antibiotics "just in case." Patients are often unaware of the harmful effects of antibiotics and may falsely believe that antibiotics are necessary for the infection to resolve.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has issued guidance to the medical community on treatment for pink eye. The Academy tells health care providers to avoid prescribing antibiotics for viral conditions and to delay immediate treatment when the cause of conjunctivitis is unknown.

About the American Academy of Ophthalmology

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world's largest association of eye physicians and surgeons. A global community of 32,000 medical doctors, we protect sight and empower lives by setting the standards for ophthalmic education and advocating for our patients and the public. We innovate to advance our profession and to ensure the delivery of the highest-quality eye care. Our EyeSmart program provides the public with the most trusted information about eye health. For more information, visit www.aao.org.

SOURCE American Academy of Ophthalmology

Related Links

http://www.aao.org


TORONTO, June 19, 2016 /PRNewswire/ - iSIGN Media Solutions Inc. ("iSIGN" or "Company") (TSX-V: ISD) (OTC: ISDSF), a leading provider of interactive mobile proximity marketing and public security alert solutions is pleased to announce that Mr. Anthony DeCristofaro will be re-joining iSIGN's Board of Directors, subject to regulatory approvals.

Mr. DeCristofaro is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Qnext Corp. and brings thirty-plus years of computer industry experience to iSIGN's Board. Anthony's past experience in the building of successful companies, as well as with mergers and acquisitions is welcomed.

Mr. DeCristofaro previously served on iSIGN's Board from September 3, 2009 to December 16, 2013.

About iSIGN Media

iSIGN Media, based in Toronto, is a data-focused, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company that is a pioneering leader in gathering point-of-sale data and mobile shopper preferences to generate actionable data and reveal valuable consumer insights. Creators of the Smart suite of products, a patented interactive proximity marketing technology, iSIGN enables brands to deliver targeted messaging, personalized offers and loyalty perks to consumers' mobile devices in proximity and with real-time proof of redemption. iSIGN's data gathering capabilities provide analytics on price points, typical purchases, in-store dwell time and other shopper metrics that identify emerging consumer behaviors. These insights enable smarter business decisions and provide increased ROI metrics for more transparent marketing. iSIGN delivers relevant, timely messages on an opt-in basis at no charge to consumers, transmitting rich media to consumer mobile devices via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity in complete privacy as opposed to iBeacons, apps, downloads and required surrendering of personal information. Proven to increase brand engagement and customer loyalty, iSIGN generates preference-based, predictive "clean data" without compromising consumer privacy. Partners include: IBM, Keyser Retail Solutions, Baylor University, Verizon Wireless, TELUS and AOpen America Inc. www.isignmedia.com

 2017 iSIGN Media Solutions Inc. All Rights Reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.

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.

SOURCE iSIGN Media Corp

Related Links

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MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Kevin D. Kimery announced today the launch of Kimery Wealth Management, formerly "The Kimery Group" of Morgan Stanley. With more than thirty years of experience, Kimery's five-person team, including financial advisor Matthew C. Heffington, specializes in family wealth advising and institution consulting for individuals, family groups and nonprofits. The firm believes that finance, by nature, is personal  and as such, strategies deployed for Kimery's clients must be tailored to their specific personal needs and life goals. Kimery Wealth Management will now custody with Charles Schwab, Inc.

Headquartered in Memphis, and serving clients across the country, Kimery Wealth Management will provide financial planning, asset management, investment portfolio consulting, philanthropic giving, multigenerational wealth and estate planning, and transition strategies for high net worth individuals and their families.

"Our team has spent decades earning the trust of our clients, and recognized that in order to maintain that trust we needed to evolve into a fully transparent, independent financial advisory business," said Kimery, President and Founder of Kimery Wealth Management. "Now operating as a privately owned, independent entity, we are best equipped to maintain our focus on each individual client and their unique needs."

Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in advisors leaving brokerage firms to offer independent advice through their own entrepreneurial practices as business owners. The move allows independent advisors to enhance their technology capabilities, investing options, access to research, and performance reporting tools.

Heffington adds: "We treat each client as the unique individual or entity that they are, and are proud to be establishing a firm that will serve their financial and emotional needs in line with our guiding principles. In our view, the independent platform approach to wealth management is substantially more comprehensive across a family's entire balance sheet. Our entire team is comprised of outstanding human beings who are 100% engaged in making a difference in people's lives  we're doing this together and could not be more excited for the journey ahead."

Prior to joining Morgan Stanley in 2005, Kimery spent seven years in the Private Client Group of Goldman Sachs and three years with Merrill Lynch. He plays an active role with Vanderbilt's Alumni Board as well as the Hutchison School and the University of Memphis Business School. He also serves in a board capacity for Carnival Memphis and is regularly involved in the New Memphis Institute community of Memphis professionals.

Heffington joined the Kimery Group in 2014 after serving five years with the Sharpe Group, a nationally recognized nonprofit consulting firm based in Memphis. He has had an active career in the not-for-profit sector, working with ALSAC, the fundraising arm of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital's executive team. Along with being a former President of the University of Memphis's Professional MBA Alumni Board, Heffington holds a leadership position with a local charity that supports The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis.

For more information, visit kimerywealth.com.

For media inquiries, please contact [email protected].

About Kimery Wealth Management

Kimery Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor based in Memphis, Tennessee. Led by Kevin D. Kimery, the firm provides high net-worth individuals and families customized, holistic wealth and asset management, estate planning, philanthropic and investment consulting services. For more information about Kimery Wealth Management, visit kimerywealth.com

Important Disclosure:

Kimery Wealth Management is an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in Tennessee. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The Firm may only transact business in those states in which it is notice filed, or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from notice filing requirements. Any subsequent, direct communication by Kimery Wealth Management with a prospective client shall be conducted by a representative that is either registered or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion from registration where the prospective client resides. For information pertaining to the registration status of the Firm, please contact the Firm or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure web site (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov). For additional information about the Firm, including fees and services, send for our disclosure statement as set forth on Form ADV. Please read the disclosure statement carefully before you invest or send money. Kimery Wealth Management has prepared this material for the purpose of providing general information regarding its investment advisory services where providing such information is not prohibited by applicable law.

SOURCE Kimery Wealth Management

Related Links

http://kimerywm.com


HARRISBURG, Pa., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Motor Vehicle Extreme Heat Protection Act, introduced in the state Senate by Senator Andy Dinniman, and introduced in the state House by Representatives Frank Farry and Dom Costa and is legislation aimed to protect pets left unattended in hot cars.

Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time.

The proposed legislation prohibits the confinement of a dog or cat in an unattended motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the health and well-being of the animal. Police officers, public safety professionals, and humane officers would have authority to remove a dog or cat from an unattended motor vehicle if it is believed the animal is suffering and the owner or operator of the vehicle cannot be found after a reasonable search. Officers acting to save animals left in hot cars will not be held liable for damages.

Media coverage is welcome to the following event.

WHO

State Sen. Andy Dinniman (D- West Chester )

(D- ) State Rep. Frank Farry (R- Bucks )

(R- ) State Rep. Dom Costa (D- Pittsburgh )

) Kristen Tullo, PA State Director, The Humane Society of the United States

Mary Jane McNamee , JD, VMD, The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association

WHAT

Legislation to protect pets left unattended in hot cars

Veterinarian, Mary Jane McNamee , JD, VMD, and the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association will lead a demonstration of basic first steps that can be taken once the pet is released from a hot car. Because dogs and cats do not sweat like humans do, it is imperative to provide emergency first aid in this critical period, in order to stabilize the pet and to provide some relief, until the pet is able to be transported to a veterinarian for treatment. Heat stroke can quickly cause irreversible organ damage, brain damage and, in extreme cases, death in a short period of time. These are simple but vital measures that anyone can take."

WHERE

East Wing Plaza (Near Fountain), State Capitol Complex

Commonwealth Avenue, Harrisburg

WHEN

Wednesday, June 21 at 11:15 a.m. (first day summer)

Media Contacts

Jaime Markle, Director of Marketing and Communications, Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) Ph: 717.220.1437 Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association
RESTON, Va., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Leidos (NYSE: LDOS), a FORTUNE 500 science and technology company, today announced its sponsorship of the 41st Air Race Classic (ARC), an annual all-woman airplane race taking off on June 20, from Frederick Md., and crossing 14 states to finish in Santa Fe, N.M. This four-day, 2,600-mile event, features more than 100 women pilots, and educates the public and celebrates women's important role in aviation.

Leidos' Flight Service Program is a strong supporter of ARC, and will be on-hand to provide weather and flight planning guidance to the intrepid race participants. Flight Service provides a range of safety-critical services to more than 80,000 members of the general aviation community across the country each week, and has been supporting pilots through air-to-ground radio communications, data link communications, Pilot Web Portal and third-party flight planning applications and websites.

"We are proud to sponsor and support the ARC and all of the inspirational women pilots participating in this year's event," said Fran Hill, Senior Vice President of the Leidos Transportation Solutions group, "These women are true role models, following a rich and historic tradition, and we are honored to be with them in every step of their journey."

The Air Race Classic traces its roots to the 1929 Women's Air Derby, in which Amelia Earhart and 19 other daring female pilots raced from Santa Monica, CA, to Cleveland, OH. That contest, aka the Powder Puff Derby, marked the beginning of women's air racing in the United States. Today, the ARC is the epicenter of women's air racing, the ultimate test of aeronautical ability and decision-making for female pilots of all ages and from all walks of life.

Air Race Classic Inc. is an all-volunteer, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization with a mission of encouraging and educating current and future female pilots, increasing public awareness of general aviation, demonstrating women's roles in aviation, and preserving and promoting the tradition of pioneering women in aviation. For more information, go to airraceclassic.org. Follow Air Race Classic on Facebook. On Twitter: @2017ARC

About Leidos

Leidos is a FORTUNE 500 science and technology solutions leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. The company's 33,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos reported pro forma annual revenues of approximately $10 billion for the fiscal year ended Jan. 1, 2016 after giving effect to the recently completed combination of Leidos with Lockheed Martin's Information Systems & Global Solutions business (IS&GS). For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Statements in this announcement, other than historical data and information, constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements, or industry results to be very different from the results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended January 1, 2016, and other such filings that Leidos makes with the SEC from time to time. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.

SOURCE Leidos

Related Links

http://www.leidos.com


ATLANTA, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A proposed settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit against Wells Fargo Dealer Services, Inc., a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. ("Wells Fargo"). The lawsuit alleges Wells Fargo violated the Telephone Consumer Protection Act ("TCPA") by using an automatic telephone dialing system and/or an artificial or prerecorded voice to initiate calls or text messages to cell phones ("Automatic Calls") in connection with automobile retail installment sale contracts without prior express consent. Wells Fargo denies the allegations, and the Court has not decided who is right. Instead, both sides agreed to a settlement.

You are included in the settlement as a Settlement Class Member if you received an Automatic Call from Wells Fargo in connection with an automobile retail installment sale contract between April 1, 2011 and March 30, 2016.

Wells Fargo has agreed to create a $14,834,058 Settlement Fund. The Fund will be used to make cash payments to Settlement Class Members who submit valid claims and to pay Class Counsel's attorneys' fees and costs (up to $4,450,217.40), a service award to the Class Representative (up to $20,000), and settlement administration costs. Settlement Class Member's payments are estimated to be between $20 and $50, but they will depend on the total number of approved claims that are filed.

To receive payment, you must complete and submit a valid Claim Form by September 20, 2017. If you received a Postcard Notice in the mail you may file a claim using the detachable Claim Form, or online or by phone using the Claim ID provided on the front of the card. If you did not receive a Postcard Notice in the mail, you may print a Claim Form from www.LusterWellsFargoTCPA.com and mail it to the address on the form. Claim Forms are also available by calling 1-844-700-3707.

If you don't want a payment from this Settlement, and you want to keep the right to sue or continue to sue Wells Fargo on your own about the legal issues in this case, then you must request exclusion from the Settlement by sending a letter to the Claims Administrator by August 21, 2017. The letter requesting exclusion must contain the information set forth in the full Notice and in the Settlement Agreement, both are available at www.LusterWellsFargoTCPA.com. Unless you exclude yourself, you are choosing to stay in the Settlement and you are releasing Wells Fargo from the legal claims resolved by this Settlement. The Released Claims are described in full in the Settlement Agreement.

If you don't exclude yourself, you can object to any part of the Settlement. You must file your objection with the Court and mail it to Class Counsel and Counsel for Wells Fargo by August 21, 2017.

If you are a Settlement Class Member and you choose to do nothing, you will not receive a payment, you will be bound by the Settlement, and you will release Wells Fargo from the legal claims resolved by this settlement.

The Court will hold a hearing on November 2, 2017 to decide whether to approve the Settlement, Class Counsel's request for attorneys' fees and expenses, and the Class Representative's service award. You may attend, but it is not required. If you wish to hire your own attorney, you may do so at your own expense.

For more information, including the full Notice and Settlement Agreement, visit www.LusterWellsFargoTCPA.com.

SOURCE Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP; Burke Law Offices
This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defense contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world.

"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said Mr. N. Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

"Lockheed Martin is honored to partner with Indian defense and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 program," said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. "Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make in India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the U.S., and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India."

The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASL's proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter.

With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced. The F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered.

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 97,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

About Tata Advanced Systems Limited

Tata Advanced Systems Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Sons, focused on providing integrated solutions for Aerospace, Defence and Homeland Security. In a short span of five years, Tata Advanced Systems Limited has become a significant player in the global aerospace market, becoming the premier manufacturing partner for global OEMs, including Boeing, Airbus Group, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, Cobham Mission Equipment, RUAG Aviation, as well as the Government of India's Defence Research & Development Organisation. It has capabilities throughout the entire aerospace value chain from design to full aircraft assembly, and is well positioned in other areas that include missiles, radars, unmanned aerial systems, command and control systems, optronics and homeland security.

SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company

Related Links

http://www.lockheedmartin.com


CHICAGO, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- MAG, owner of the third and fourth largest airports in the United Kingdom (Manchester and London Stansted), today announces that its USA subsidiary, MAG USA, after a competitive process, has been selected as the preferred company to begin negotiating a contract to design, build and operate a common-use Escape Airport Lounge (www.escapelounges.com) at Reno-Tahoe International Airport (IATA: RNO) in Nevada.



The contract, awarded by Reno-Tahoe International Airport's owner, the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, is the fourth major contract win for the company, following existing Escape Lounges already open in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Oakland International Airport (OAK) and Bradley International Airport (BDL) near Hartford.

All members and guests entering U.S. Escape's common-use airport lounges have the option to dine on an array of complimentary hot and cold food and beverages, relax in comfortable seating with plenty of power outlets, connect to free high-speed Wi-Fi and have flight information screens in easy view. Escape Lounges will be investing more than $1 million in the 1,700-square-foot space. Escape Lounge's complimentary hot and cold food offerings are developed by prominent, award-winning local chefs. Escape Lounge's complimentary bar features a selection of well-known national brands along with locally sourced wines, craft beers and spirits. In addition, premium food and beverage options are available for a fee. The current fee for walk-up entries is $45 plus taxes. A $5 discount is available by pre-booking online at www.escapelounges.com.

"The Escape Lounge allows us to offer our passengers a high-level customer service experience that is open to everyone," said Marily Mora, President/CEO of Reno-Tahoe International Airport. "It will feature a prominent local chef offering regional flavors along with high-tech amenities and a comfortable place to relax or get work done. We look forward to the Escape Lounge enhancing the overall travel experience at RNO."

Rosemarie Andolino, President and CEO of MAG USA, said, "I am delighted to announce MAG USA's partnership with the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. Reno-Tahoe will be the first Escape Lounge opened since U.S. Escape Lounges became part of the American Express Global Lounge CollectionSM. This brand-new amenity at Reno-Tahoe International Airport will help win over new customers by offering a high-quality experience for passengers as they travel through the airport."

"Consumers are seeking new ways to make simple and affordable upgrades to their daily lives and Escape Lounges help them do that. We offer high quality food and refreshment, free high-speed Wi-Fi and newspapers in a relaxed, comfortable and contemporary environment allowing them to separate themselves from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

"Common-use airport lounges are still a relatively new concept in North America and we look forward to working with more airports as they improve their passenger amenities," added Andolino.

The Reno-Tahoe Escape Lounge will build on MAG USA's network of Escape Lounges, with three lounges already opened at Minneapolis-St. Paul, Oakland and Bradley International Airports. In addition, MAG operates five Escape Lounges and one new high end lounge, 1903, across the four airports it owns and operates in the UK.

Reno-Tahoe, which primarily serves Nevada and Northern California, is the second busiest airport in Nevada and has seen impressive passenger growth with passenger numbers up 10 percent on 2016; this was also the highest year-over-year annual growth since 2004 for the Reno-Tahoe International Airport.

American Express Platinum Card Members receive complimentary access to U.S. Escape Lounges. American Express Platinum Card Members flying on any airline can simply present the U.S. Escape Lounge host with their Platinum Card, along with their boarding pass and government-issued I.D. to enter the lounge and begin enjoying the premium amenities. Platinum Card Members may be accompanied by up to two traveling companions for no additional charge.

For more information and for booking information visit www.escapelounges.com.

About Escape Lounges

Escape Lounge is an airport lounge concept available to all ticketed passengers on any carrier. Escape was started in the 1980's with a lounge in Manchester Airport, UK, and has since grown to eight lounges with U.S. locations currently in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Oakland International Airport (OAK) and Bradley International Airport (BDL). Visit escapelounges.com for a complete list of our entry options at each of our lounges.

About MAG USA

MAG USA, launched in 2015, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Manchester Airport Group, U.K. (MAG). MAG USA is focused on bringing Escape Lounges, commercial parking products and P3, public-private partnerships, retail and terminal developments that transform the passenger experience to U.S. airports. Reno-Tahoe Escape brings the total number of U.S. Escape Lounges to four.

MAG is the UK's leading airport group which owns and operates Manchester, London Stansted, East Midlands and Bournemouth Airports, together with MAG Property, a commercial property division. MAG's aim is to become a global leader in airport management, products and services, and it currently employs over 4,500 people, annually serves approximately 50 million passengers and handles 650,000 tonnes of air freight. MAG is managed on behalf of its shareholders who include Manchester City Council (35.5%), IFM Investors (35.5%) and the nine other Greater Manchester local authorities (29%).

For more information about MAG USA, please visit www.magworld.com and connect on twitter.com/MAGAirportsUSA and linkedin.com/company/mag-airport-group-usa.

About Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority

The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority is the owner and operator of the Reno-Tahoe International and Reno-Stead Airports. It is governed by a nine member Board of Trustees, operates as a business, and receives no local tax dollars.

The Reno-Tahoe International Airport is an important asset to the region, generating a total annual economic impact of $2 billion. The airport functions like a small city with over 2,400 employees working for a variety of companies. It takes the dedication and service of these employees to make that all-important first and last impression on travelers to and from the region.

As the 66th busiest commercial airport in the nation, Reno-Tahoe International (RNO) serves approximately 4 million passengers per year. Located only 5 minutes from downtown Reno and 40 minutes from some of the finest ski resorts and outdoor recreation in the world, RNO is the Gateway to Lake Tahoe and the entire region.

Eight different airlines offer service at RNO with 15,200 seats available through the airport each day. The airport also prides itself on a high level of customer service and convenience.

SOURCE MAG USA

Related Links

http://www.magworld.com


LONDON, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Mapi, the leading Patient-Centered Health Research company, today announced the creation of a dedicated unit combining its Patient Centered Outcomes (PCO) team, Patient Insight & Engagement researchers and their Patient Logistics group (PROclinica), the provider of Direct To Patient services, to create transformative integrated solutions across the entire treatment lifecycle for biopharmaceutical clients.

The new dedicated unit, headed by Mapi's Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. William C Maier, will provide customers with global patient- solutions based on patient perceptions, behaviours and motivations to improve drug efficacy and safety assessment, regulatory and payer acceptance, study design, recruitment and participation in trials, observational studies and pharmaceutical marketing activities.

"Mapi has been the industry innovator and leader in Patient Centered Research longer than most CROs have existed " said Will Maier, Chief Scientific Officer of Mapi. "Through this new business unit we help our clients seamlessly integrate and align Patient Centered Sciences; developing the most complete understanding of patients, their behaviour and preferences, integrating relevant Clinical Outcomes to support endpoints and value based treatment, as well as execute on these combined insights with the industry's most experienced Direct to Patient Contact experts. Mapi is considered the regulatory and peri- and post-approval research experts, enabling our clients to meet the evidence demands of both regulators and payers for over four decades."

Experts from the new unit will be presenting at the annual June meeting of the Drug Information Association (DIA) in Chicago.

Benoit Arnould, PhD - Senior Director, Patient-centered Outcomes (PCO), Mapi Group

Session 04-12: No More Swag Items for Retention, So Now What Do We Do? Did You Get Why Patients Accept (or Not) Their Long-Term Treatment? Results from an EU study Via Carenity Social Platform

Session 07-01: Integrating the Patient's Voice Across the Development Program of Rare Diseases; Developing the PKU-QOL: A Long Journey to Integrate the Patients' Voice into Phenylketonuria Drug Development Programs

Kelly Franchetti, RN, CCRN, CEN - Vice President, Global Patient Insights & Engagement (PI&E), Mapi Group

Presentation: The Inclusive Clinical Trial: Involving Diverse Populations in Clinical Trial Design

Presentation: A Mutually Beneficial Partnership: Engaging Advocacy and Patient Groups to Assist with Clinical Trial Recruitment

Presentation: Medical Affairs Engaging Patients for Post-Marketing Patient Registry

Valerie Powell, MS - Director, Global Patient Insights & Engagement (PI&E), Mapi Group

Will Maier, PhD, MPH - Chief Scientific Officer, Patient-Centered Services, Mapi

Margaret Richards, PhD, MPH - Vice President, Data Analytics and Epidemiology, Real World Strategy and Analytics (RWS&A)

About Mapi: Patients are at the heart of our research

Mapi Group has over 40 years of experience supporting Life-Science companies in developing and implementing strategies for commercializing novel treatments through Strategic Regulatory Services, Pharmacovigilance, Market Access, Language Services, and gathering Real-World Evidence on Pharmaceuticals, Biologics, and Medical Devices. Mapi Group is the premier provider of Health Research and Commercialization services to Life-Science companies enabling Market Authorization, Market Access and Market Adoption of novel therapeutics. Visit http://www.mapigroup.com for more information.

CONTACT: [email protected]

SOURCE Mapi

Related Links

http://mapigroup.com


WASHINGTON, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children's Defense Fund, has sent out an urgent SOS to protect Medicaid and the 37 million children it serves across the nation, including 40 percent of all children with special health care needs and more than 40 percent of all births.

"This is an urgent SOS. Right now Republican Senators are working behind closed doors on their own version of the terrible American Health Care Act (AHCA) passed by the House of Representatives in early May that would rip away health coverage from 23 million people. They plan to vote on a Senate bill just before they leave Washington for the July 4th recess. We can't tell you everything that's in it because Senate leadership is keeping its bill secret and doesn't plan to reveal it until just before they vote. But we know it's bad  ending Medicaid as we know it. Your help is needed right now to keep Senators from moving forward with this terrible health plan! More than 50 years of progress made in expanding and improving comprehensive child-appropriate health coverage for children across America hangs in the balance. Everybody who cares about children needs to mobilize as you have never mobilized before and raise a ruckus to save children's health care safety net."

Read Marian Wright Edelman's full call to action in her weekly Child Watch Column: "Saving Medicaid  An Urgent SOS."

The Children's Defense Fund Leave No Child Behind mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities.

SOURCE Children's Defense Fund

Related Links

http://www.childrensdefense.org


MOTHERWELL, Scotland, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

-INTERNATIONAL AEROSPACE ENGINEERING GROUP RECRUITING AN ADDITIONAL 160 ENGINEERING SPECIALISTS THANKS TO "MILESTONE OPPORTUNITY" -

International aerospace engineering group MB Aerospace can today announce it has signed a new 10-year contract with United Technologies Corporation (UTC) with a potential value of up to $1bn over the life of the contract. The new contract will see MB Aerospace supply complex performance critical aero-engine components and assemblies for content across the full range of Pratt & Whitney (PW) engine programs.

Founded in 2000, MB Aerospace manufactures aero-engine components and employs 1,600 employees in the USA, UK and Poland. The group described the new contract as a "milestone opportunity" and estimates an additional 160 engineering specialists have been and will be recruited within the next 3-5 years to service the new contract and meet wider industry demand.

Craig Gallagher, MB Aerospace chief executive officer, said: "We are hugely respectful of the trust placed in us by United Technologies and Pratt & Whitney to support their programs. MB Aerospace and UTC already possess a strong working relationship across Pratt & Whitney's installed base programs, and this contract represents a milestone opportunity for our world class teams to support UTC."

"We are proud to sign this agreement with MB Aerospace," said Sam Abdelmalek, Pratt & Whitney vice president, Global Supply Chain. "We value our long standing relationship, and MB Aerospace is a critical supplier in our world-class supply chain. As Pratt & Whitney strives for supply chain excellence, suppliers like MB Aerospace that commit to our supplier gold program, cost reductions and contractual governance will have opportunities to grow with us."

Gallagher continues, "MB Aerospace supplies UTC with complex fabricated assemblies from East Granby and Warren and complex machined parts from Rzeszow and Sterling Heights. As part of this contract, MB Aerospace will also supply Pratt & Whitney with rotating components from both its East Granby and Newton Abbot facilities.

"We are delighted that our highly-skilled employees will have the opportunity to serve Pratt & Whitney for the next decade on these key programs.

"The MB Aerospace group has already invested more than $50m in machining technology, facilities expansion and in the last year has recruited an additional 100 new full-time employees in support of this growth and ahead of the agreement of this exciting contract. Included in our investment in people is a ground-breaking Engineering Services team of more than 40 technical and programming specialists to support to each of our business units from a central hub located in Rzeszow Poland - we plan to grow this team to at least 100 engineering specialists to support our customers through the intense period of growth facing the industry in the next 3-5 years."



Notes to editors

About MB Aerospace - MB Aerospace is a leading Tier 1 supplier of precision aero-engine components directly serving major aero-engine OEMs and leading tier 1 suppliers. MB Aerospace's focus on complex performance critical aero-engine components leverages a depth of technical and engineering understanding across the full range of materials, manufacturing processes and customer approvals to be a truly trusted and scaled partner to the main aero-engine OEMs. MB Aerospace has developed a highly attractive global operating footprint, with 1,600 employees across six main manufacturing hubs in the U.S., Poland and the U.K. with proximity to all key OEM and Tier 1 customers. MB Aerospace recently secured investment support from The Blackstone Group (NYSE:BX) when it was acquired by Blackstone and management in a transaction in December 2015.

About Pratt & Whitney - Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corporation, is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. United Technologies Corp. based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries.

SOURCE MB Aerospace
HOLMDEL, N.J., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Vonage (NYSE: VG) announced that Mobile Medical Examination Service, Inc. (MedXM) has chosen Vonage as its business communications partner. Santa Ana-based MedXM is a national leader in the design and implementation of preventive care technology and health risk assessments.

Vonage's opportunity to partner with MedXM was facilitated through mutual Google partner, VIWO. Vonage will provide MedXM and its 5,000-person medical staff with a full range of Unified Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) and Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) solutions to help lower costs and create better outcomes for its customers and members.

MedXM is focused on providing its medical staff with advanced technology to drive highly customizable and improved patient outcome solutions, while also driving down costs. MedXM focuses on three pillars of healthcare: prevention, education and early detection. MedXM and Vonage are aligned in the belief that the successful implementation of these pillars relies on effective communications.

"When we made the decision to move our communications system to the cloud, the most important consideration was partnering with a company that would help us to provide our members - patients, healthcare plans and physicians - with the same robust network of resources and unparalleled customer service that they expect from MedXM," said Sy Zahedi, CEO, MedXM. "With Vonage, we know we will not only continue to deliver on the promise of our trusted brand, but this move to the cloud will also provide us with the agility we require to connect with our members wherever they are to meet their healthcare needs better and faster."

To optimize workflow, MedXM is also integrating Vonage's Premier UCaaS solution into G Suite powered by Google Cloud. With Vonage, MedXM will be able to deploy its communications solution throughout its organization via Google Chrome devices, which will enable the rollout and management of IT infrastructure very quickly and without the need for a large IT staff for support.

"As a Google Premier partner that focuses on the sale of Google G Suite services, we felt that Vonage Business was the right fit for MedXM and its call center requirements, which centered around the use of Google Chromebooks and Android support," said Denise Hazime, General Manager of VIWO. "The versatility of Vonage and its communication platform allowed VIWO to bring forth the right communications partner to MedXM, to enable a Google-centric call center environment."

MedXM will also employ Vonage's advanced contact center, powered by inContact, to enable its full-service, in-house customer service team to enhance and build upon its impressive customer management and support processes. inContact Omnichannel Routing, part of Customer Interaction Cloud, intelligently routes all customer interactions and empowers contact center agents to provide personalized and proactive customer experiences.

Also critical to securing MedXM's business was the Vonage API platform, Nexmo. MedXM plans to utilize Nexmo APIs to provide unique solutions to further engage with its members through contextual communications. For example, Nexmo APIs will enable MedXM to communicate with members in new ways, from automatically sending appointment reminders, to connecting a MedXM member seeking urgent care with a nearby physician in real time, to bringing doctor and patient together within an hour in the patient's home.

"We are thrilled to partner with MedXM to help them streamline and unify the way they connect their members with the healthcare plans and providers they need to ensure good health and a better way of life," said Alan Masarek, Vonage CEO. "Vonage's partnership with MedXM is a natural extension of both companies' mission to drive better business outcomes for their customers. The addition of UCaaS capabilities for enhanced collaboration, CPaaS technology for better customer connections, coupled with an enterprise contact center solution and G Suite integration, is a winning combination that provides MedXM with everything it needs to continue to effectively and efficiently drive success for its business and in the healthcare space."

About Vonage

Vonage (NYSE: VG) is a leading provider of cloud communications services for business. Vonage transforms the way people work and businesses operate through a portfolio of cloud-based communications solutions that enable internal collaboration among employees, while also keeping companies closely connected with their customers, across any mode of communication, on any device.

Vonage's Nexmo API Platform provides tools for voice, messaging and phone verification services, allowing developers to embed contextual, programmable communications into mobile apps, websites and business systems. Nexmo enables enterprises to easily communicate relevant information to their customers in real time, anywhere in the world, through text messaging, chat, social media and voice.

The Company also provides a robust suite of feature-rich residential communication solutions. In 2015 and 2016, Vonage was named a Visionary in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Unified Communications as-a-Service, Worldwide. Vonage has also earned the Frost & Sullivan Growth Excellence Leadership Award for Hosted IP and Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) Services. For more information, visit Vonage Business. Vonage Holdings Corp. is headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey. Vonage is a registered trademark of Vonage Marketing LLC, owned by Vonage America Inc. To follow Vonage on Twitter, please visit www.twitter.com/vonage. To become a fan on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/vonage. To subscribe on YouTube, visit www.youtube.com/vonage.

About MedXM

Since 1990, MedXM has been a national leader in the design and implementation of preventative care technology and in-home health risk assessments for the purpose of care management. MedXM offers a complete network of connections between members, their health plan, and providers. MedXM is focused on delivering Risk Adjustment and Quality Solutions by providing clients with fully customizable options to fulfill specific needs.

(vg-a)

SOURCE Vonage

Related Links

http://www.vonage.com


NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- CEFALY Technology announced today that Cefaly, the first FDA-approved external trigeminal nerve stimulation device for the prevention of frequent episodic migraine attacks, will become available for purchase via PayPal Credit starting this June, in a nod toward Migraine Awareness Month. This means migraineurs who are approved by the online payments system, can get relief now and pay later, interest-free, for up to 6-months; making the $349 one-time cost for medical device less than $59 per month  when paid over a half-year period.

"We're excited to offer migraineurs a way to more quickly find relief," said Dr. Pierre Rigaux, the chief executive officer of CEFALY Technology, and a member of the team that invented the device. "By using PayPal Credit, we've found a way to make the Cefaly device more immediately accessible to people with migraines while we continue to work toward having the Cefaly device approved by insurance companies."

Cefaly is an electronic, battery-powered, prescription-only device that is placed on the forehead for 20-minutes once a day, using a self-adhesive electrode and a magnetic connection. The device sends tiny electrical impulses through the skin to desensitize the upper branches of the trigeminal nerve and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. In clinical trials, compliant Cefaly users experienced an 81% satisfaction rate, a 75% reduction in intake of migraine medication, and a 54% reduction in migraine attacks.

Cefaly costs $349 and comes with a 60-day money back guarantee. A pack of three electrodes costs $25 and each electrode may be re-used up to 20 times. Cefaly is available by prescription-only and indicated for patients 18 years of age and older. Women who are pregnant or could become pregnant should check with their doctor before using Cefaly. Only 4.3% of people in clinical trials reported side effects -- all of which were minor and fully reversible.

About CEFALY Technology

CEFALY Technology is a Belgium-based company, with US offices based in Wilton, Connecticut, specializing in electronics for medical applications. It has developed external cranial stimulation technology for applications in the field of neurology; in particular for treating migraines. For more information, visit http://www.cefaly.us. Find Cefaly on Twitter: @Cefaly, Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CefalyEN, and YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/CEFALYTechnology.

Media Contact: Maria Coder

(646) 494-4773

[email protected]

SOURCE CEFALY Technology
TEL AVIV, Israel and MELBOURNE, Australia, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

iCAN: Israel-Cannabis (iCAN), a leading Israeli developer of medical cannabis formulations, clinical trials and cannabis testing, has formed a joint venture with LeafCann Research and Advisory, a leader in the development of cannabis medications, clinical research and education, based in Melbourne, Australia. The new venture, iCAN: Australia, will collaborate on a range of initiatives including medicinal cannabis research, education, acceleration, and innovation.

This joint venture is a significant step in the collaborative efforts between Israel and Australia in this field, combining Israel's role as the world's medical cannabis R&D powerhouse with Australia's newly eased access regulations for patients in need.

"We are thrilled to partner with LeafCann to form iCAN: Australia. Our collaboration will bring world-class cannabis products to the Australian market as well as accelerate our collaborative research and development of new products for a range of indications," said Saul Kaye, CEO of iCAN: Israel-Cannabis.

The burgeoning global medical cannabis industry is estimated to reach $50 billion by 2025.

"This agreement paves the way for significant investment in clinical research to support the development of evidence based cannabis medicines for patients most in need. In addition iCAN: Australia will develop global clinical education initiatives to bridge the gap between public demand and practitioner education. We are also excited to be part of iCAN's global acceleration program to develop a professional, ethical and sustainable medicinal cannabis sector worldwide," said LeafCann Group CEO, Dr Jaroslav Boublik B.Sc.(Hons) Ph.D. (Med), MRACI, C.Chem. AACNEM, MICRS.

LeafCann's practitioner education program will be incorporated into iCAN's product offerings and distributed via iCAN's global reach. In addition, iCAN: Australia will take a significant interest in CannaTech Australia, the country's first major Medical Cannabis Summit modeled after the highly successful CannaTech Israel Summits. The first CannaTech Australia conference will take place in Sydney in 2018.

About iCAN: Israel-Cannabis

iCAN: Israel-Cannabis is a leading Israeli developer of cannabis based formulations, clinical trials and cannabis testing. iCAN is committed to accelerate Israel's CannaTechnology industry, capitalizing on Israeli innovation and a leading cannabis regulatory environment to bring premier products to market. iCAN is powered by CannaTech, the premier international cannabis summit held annually in Tel Aviv and for the first time outside of Israel on October 25th and 26th in London, England.

About LeafCann

LeafCann Research and Advisory is a wholly owned subsidiary of LeafCann Group Pty Ltd. LeafCann Research and Advisory is a leading Australian developer of clinical research, product development, education and Industry advice to a range of Australian and international partners. LeafCann Group has positioned itself as Australia's preeminent Medicinal Cannabis think tank. With strong strategic partnerships, a diverse team and significant investment in medicinal cannabis production in Australia, LeafCann Group is well positioned as a global leader.

Contact:

Kam Global Strategies,

[email protected] ,

+972-54-806-8613



SOURCE iCAN: Israel-Cannabis and LeafCann Research and Advisory
LUXEMBOURG, 19 June 2017 /PRNewswire/ --

Millicom will announce its second quarter results for the period ending 30 June 2017, on 19 July 2017 at approximately 10:00 PM (Stockholm) / 9:00 PM (London) / 4:00 PM (New York)

This represents a slight change from our previously communicated plan to report on July 20th.

The company will host a conference call for the global financial community on 20 July 2017 at 2:00 PM (Stockholm) / 1:00 PM (London) / 8:00 AM (New York).

The conference call will be webcast at www.millicom.com

Dial-in information:

Please dial in 5-10 minutes before the scheduled start time to register your attendance. Dial-in numbers for the call are as follows:

Sweden: +46-(0)-8-5065-3942

UK: +44-(0)-330-336-9411

US: +1-719-325-2226

Luxembourg: +352-2787-0187

The access code is: 5088688

Replay information:

A replay of the call will be available for 7 days from 20 July 2017 at:

Sweden: +46-(0)-8-5199-3077

UK: +44-(0)-207-984-7568

US: +1-719-457-0820

Replay passcode is: 5088688

CONTACT:

For further information please visit: www.millicom.com or contact

Investors:

Michel Morin +352-277-59094

Mauricio Pinzon +44-(0)-20-3249-2460

[email protected]

Press:

Vivian Kobeh, +352-277-59084 / [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

http://news.cision.com/millicom-international-cellular/r/notice-of-second-quarter-2017-results-and-conference-call,c2291636

The following files are available for download:

http://mb.cision.com/Main/950/2291636/690153.pdf Notice of second quarter 2017 results and conference call

SOURCE Millicom International Cellular
Each week in July, the Ohio Lottery will host giveaways on its social media channels, awarding $50 gift cards for sharing stories of positivity using the hashtag #InspiredOH. During the month of August, the Ohio Lottery will roll out additional rewards to those who share their own stories of positivity, including a chance to have their story documented in a video by the Ohio Lottery.

"We could not be more excited to partner with Francisco Lindor, one of today's most inspiring Ohioans, for this campaign," said Sandy Lesko Sabbath, Deputy Director, Marketing Communications for the Ohio Lottery. "Francisco's remarkable story of perseverance exemplifies the InspiredOH initiative. The Ohio Lottery is focused on creating positive experiences across the state, and we couldn't think of a better Ohioan, or person, to team up with for this program."

Lindor's fans know him for his impressive skills on the field, but most are not familiar with his journey to reach his dreams; overcoming obstacles such as learning a new language, and supporting his sister through her battle with cancer. Throughout the challenges he has faced, he's never lost his signature smile and has consequently become a role model to all around him.

Now fans will get an insider's look at Lindor's journey to the big leagues and learn more about those who have helped him achieve the impossible through a documentary produced by the Ohio Lottery. To support the initiative, the Lottery has launched the website www.inspiredoh.org, which will feature Lindor's documentary and "Lindorisms"  fun pieces of advice and encouragement for daily life. The website also features a series of inspirational videos from across the state such as an Ohio-based horse ranch that raises funds for breast cancer, a small town thrift shop that supports animal rescue efforts and many more.

The Ohio Lottery has contributed more than $23 billion toward education. As a strong believer himself that education can open doors, and to kick off the initiative, Lindor will be making a personal donation to Minds Matter Cleveland. The 100% volunteer-led, nonprofit organization provides high-achieving high school students from low-income backgrounds with academic and mentoring services, along with access to summer college immersion programs, to assist them in navigating the path to college and career success.

"As a part of my partnership with the Ohio Lottery, it's very important to me to be able to give back to my community. I'll be making a donation to Minds Matter Cleveland to help ensure that high-performing, low-income students have the resources needed to further their education. I hope this will positively impact these students and give them some of the necessary support to achieve success, and help them reach their goals and dreams," added Lindor.

Throughout its nine-year history, Minds Matter Cleveland has succeeded in placing each of its graduates into a four-year college or university, almost all with significant financial aid and scholarship assistance.

For more information on the InspiredOH initiative and the Ohio Lottery, visit www.inspiredoh.org.

About the Ohio Lottery

The Ohio Lottery has contributed over $23 billion to education since 1974. For more information about the Ohio Lottery and its contribution to education, visit www.ohiolottery.com/supportingeducation.

Follow the Ohio Lottery on Twitter: @OHLottery

Follow the Ohio Lottery on Instagram: @ohlottery

Find the Ohio Lottery on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OhioLottery

See Ohio Lottery on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ohlottery

SOURCE Ohio Lottery
CANNES, France, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Omnicom is formalizing its pledge to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #4 with the announcement today of two new, three-year global partnerships with leading NGOs  Theirworld and Girl Effect.

Since the launch of the Common Ground Initiative last year, Omnicom has been simultaneously supporting global and local education programs while managing several projects with its newest partners to further deliver on the important promise of SDG #4: "inclusive and quality education for all."

"We are committed to using the creativity, innovation and power of our people and agencies across the globe to help the UN achieve the SDGs," says John Wren, President and CEO, Omnicom Group. "Given our long history supporting educational initiatives, we are honored to be able to extend our support to two outstanding non-profits, Theirworld and Girl Effect, who share a similar mission  education for all."

Children's charity Theirworld uses research, pilot projects and campaigning to create global change and bring better health and education to children. They are at the forefront of testing and shaping new ideas to help give the most vulnerable children around the world a brighter future and the best possible start in life.

"A partnership with Omnicom gives a huge boost to the global movement to get every girl and boy in school," says Sarah Brown, President of Theirworld. "The engagement of such a vibrant network of clients, offices, staff and agencies worldwide has the potential to help transform how world leaders and communities all around the world prioritize the education of children, whoever they are and wherever they are born."

UK-based Girl Effect uses mass media, mobile technology, and data and insights to create a 'New Normal' for girls. With efforts worldwide, they are working toward creating a world where girls, no matter where in the world they live, have the information and inspiration they need to seek out and demand the services they require to lead better, more fulfilled, lives.

"When girls have access to a quality education, it is a key driver for them to rise and lift the economic prospects of their whole community," says Farah Ramzan Golant, CEO of Girl Effect. "We are grateful to Omnicom because we both believe in the power of branded storytelling: to unlock real change, you need to unlock hearts and minds and enable new behaviors. This is where our two organizations can work collaboratively to deliver real return on impact."

Watch the video to learn more about Omnicom's partnership with Theirworld and Girl Effect.

Omnicom will be discussing their partnership with Theirworld and Girl Effect as part of a CEO Panel session at The OMD Oasis during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (June 17-24), in Cannes, France, on Tuesday, June 20 and at a Common Ground reception later that evening. In addition, throughout the week of Cannes Lions Festival there will be an exhibit showcasing the efforts and progress of all Common Ground initiatives in the Palais des Festivals.

Theirworld (http://theirworld.org/) and Girl Effect (http://www.girleffect.org/) join a list of other admirable NGOs Omnicom employees and agencies are supporting to advance inclusive and quality education, including CARE, Room to Read, Project Literacy, IndeWe Learning Center in Illovo, Action Aid, Education Above All and RMHC/Hacer Scholarship Program, among others.

View Omnicom's 2016 Corporate Responsibility Report: http://csr.omnicomgroup.com

ABOUT OMNICOM GROUP INC.

Omnicom Group (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom's branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

SOURCE Omnicom Group

Related Links

http://www.omnicomgroup.com


BEACHWOOD, Ohio, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- OMNOVA Solutions (NYSE: OMN) will hold its conference call to discuss second quarter 2017 results on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at 11:00am ET. The call will be hosted by OMNOVA Solutions' President and Chief Executive Officer Anne Noonan, and Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Paul DeSantis. OMNOVA will release earnings before the market opens on June 28 for the quarter ending May 31, 2017.

The call will be webcast and participants may log on from OMNOVA's website at www.omnova.com. OMNOVA will archive the call on its website until noon ET, July 18, 2017. Or, to listen to a digitized telephone replay (1:00pm ET, June 28 until 11:59am ET, July 18, 2017), callers should dial:

(USA) 800-475-6701, Access Code 425253

(Int'l) 320-365-3844, Access Code 425253

OMNOVA Solutions Inc. is a global innovator of performance-enhancing chemistries and surfaces used in products for a variety of commercial, industrial and residential applications. As a strategic business-to-business supplier, OMNOVA provides The Science in Better Brands, with emulsion polymers, specialty chemicals, and functional and decorative surfaces that deliver critical performance attributes to top brand-name, end-use products sold around the world. OMNOVA's sales for the last 12 months ended November 30, 2016, were $760 million. The Company has a global workforce of approximately 2,000. Visit OMNOVA Solutions on the internet at www.omnova.com.

SOURCE OMNOVA Solutions

Related Links

http://www.omnova.com


NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of financial markets for 10,000 U.S. and global securities, today announced Standard Lithium Ltd. (TSX-V: SLL; OTCQX: STLHF), who is in the business of evaluating, acquiring and developing lithium projects in the USA, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market. Standard Lithium upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink market.

Standard Lithium begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol "STLHF." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

"Upgrading to OTCQX will enable Standard Lithium to trade alongside the many resources companies that use the market to efficiently build visibility, expand access to news and financial disclosure and provide a more transparent trading market for its U.S. investors," said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of OTC Markets Group. "We look forward to supporting Standard Lithium and its shareholders."

"We are excited to now be traded on the OTCQX market. It is an important step forward as we continue our efforts to increase visibility and liquidity for the company," stated Robert Mintak, Standard Lithium CEO. "We believe OTCQX will provide our company the ability to develop a strong U.S. shareholder base as we continue to grow the company."

Standard Lithium was sponsored for OTCQX by Clark Wilson LLP, a qualified 3rd party firm responsible for providing guidance on OTCQX requirements and recommending membership.

Standard's value creation strategy encompasses acquiring a diverse and highly prospective portfolio of large-scale domestic brine resources, led by an innovation & results oriented management team with a strong focus on technical skills. The company is currently focused on the immediate exploration and development of its 16,000+ acre Bristol Lake, Brine Project located in the Mojave region of San Bernardino County, California. The location has significant infrastructure in-place, with easy road and rail access, abundant electricity and water sources, and is already permitted for extensive brine extraction and processing activities. Standard also recently announced the acquisition of the 41,000+ acre Paradox Basin Project located in Grand County, Utah.

About OTC Markets Group Inc.

OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market, and the Pink Open Market for 10,000 U.S. and global securities. Through OTC Link ATS, we connect a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services. We enable investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empower companies to improve the quality of information available for investors.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com

OTC Link ATS is operated by OTC Link LLC, member FINRA/SIPC and SEC regulated ATS.

Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

Media Contact:

OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, [email protected]

SOURCE OTC Markets Group Inc.

Related Links

http://www.otcmarkets.com


Line 11 marks the 11th project for which the Wuhan Metro has selected Otis elevators and escalators. Otis Electric began working with Wuhan Metro in 2004, when Line 1 went into operation, and it has remained a key supplier in the development of the city's rail network ever since, with Otis elevators and escalators now also used on Lines 2, 3, 4 and 7 as well as the Airport Line, supporting some 2 million daily trips on the network. Wuhan is the capital of central China's Hubei province.

The new Line 11 is expected to be the longest metro line in Wuhan when it goes into operation in 2018. Line 21, known as the Yangluo Line, will be a 35 km-extension to the city network, connecting Hubei's main port and the Yangluo Economic Development Zone to support the development of the local economy. It will be Wuhan's second light rail line, and is expected to open in late 2018.

Otis Electric will also deliver customized service support to the Wuhan Metro. Otis Electric mechanics will be stationed on-site at metro stations to provide around-the-clock service and a higher level of support for an expanded range of maintenance tasks, helping to ensure reliable elevator and escalator operations for metro customers.

"Otis Electric has been a leading supplier in the development of Wuhan's modern transportation infrastructure for more than a decade. We are honored to be able to play a part in the city's ongoing growth," said Lawrence Chui, president, Otis Electric Elevator Co., Ltd. "With superior products and services, Otis Electric is committed to supporting the day-to-day operations and long-term development of Wuhan Metro."

A leader in the infrastructure segment in China, Otis Electric is a part of many key metro rail networks across China, including Beijing, Changsha, Chengdu, Dalian, Hangzhou, Kunming, Nanjing, Ningbo, Shanghai and Shenzhen.

Otis Electric

Otis Electric, a brand of Otis, was introduced to China in January 2016 to succeed the Xizi Otis brand. Otis Electric is supported by manufacturing facilities in Hangzhou and Chongqing, as well as an accredited testing laboratory and over 255 branches and service depots across China. With strong capabilities to deploy advanced technologies in products and services, Otis Electric is dedicated to satisfying customer needs, especially in the residential, commercial and public infrastructure segments.

Contact:

Katy Padgett

860-674-3047

[email protected]

SOURCE Otis

Related Links

http://www.otis.com


The Tavis Smiley Podcast will bring back to the forefront Smiley's personal opinions on culture and current events, in combination with guests from a variety of backgrounds. Celebrities, authors, academics, attorneys, political representatives and more will be welcomed to debate unique themes only Smiley could identify. Long-time fans of the well-known and outspoken intellectual and advocate will not only get their fill of Smiley's impassioned commentary each week, leaving them fired up to discuss controversial topics, but they'll now also be able to join the in-show conversation through social media and more.

A two-part "Taste of Tavis" special podcast will be released the weeks of July 10 and 17, 2017, with the weekly Tavis Smiley Podcast debuting mid-September. All episodes will be available via TavisTalks.com, PodcastOne's website and community-driven app, and Apple Podcasts.

"I love listening, learning and laughing," said Smiley. "Great conversation is essential for me. It's like oxygen. Every now and again, folk might even be surprised by my take on things. I look forward to bringing our brand of smart talk to PodcastOne."

PodcastOne Founder and Executive Chairman Norman Pattiz said, "What we like best on our network are personalities that are unique and worth listening to. With Tavis, we've checked off those boxes in a major way. I've been a listener, viewer and fan of his unique style and first-class contentand couldn't be happier to be working with him on this project."

For more information, please visit www.PodcastOne.com. To advertise, please contact PodcastOne at [email protected].

About Tavis Smiley

Tavis Smiley is currently host of the late-night television show Tavis Smiley on PBS, now in its 14th season, as well as The Tavis Smiley Show from Public Radio International. He is the author or co-author of 21 books, and his non-profit Tavis Smiley Foundation is now in the midst of a $3 million four-year campaign called "Ending Poverty: America's Silent Spaces" to help focus on alleviating endemic poverty in America. TIME magazine named Smiley to the TIME 100, a list of "The World's 100 Most Influential People."

About PodcastOne

PodcastOne, (www.PodcastOne.com) the nation's leading advertiser-supported podcast network, was founded by Norm Pattiz, founder of radio-giant Westwood One. The network currently hosts more than 200 of today's most popular podcasts, including Adam Carolla, Shaquille O'Neal, Norman Lear, Steve Austin, Heather and Terry Dubrow, Geffen Playhouse, Dan Patrick, Barstool Sports, Laila Ali, Dr. Drew, Neil Strauss, Gabrielle Reece, Penn Jillette, Eddie Trunk, Ross Mathews, Rich Eisen, Chris Jericho, Jay Mohr, Laura Ingraham, the Forbes on PodcastOne Network and more. Follow Norm on Crunchbase and LinkedIn

Press Contact:

Amanda Deutchman

(310) 858-0888

[email protected]

SOURCE PodcastOne

Related Links

http://www.PodcastOne.com


TAIPEI, Taiwan, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Deals, discussions and exchanges often take place in a coffee shop environment. The shop offers a convenient and comfortable place where the contents and interactions is kept to the people involved.

We all want the freedom to collaborate and communicate in an environment that is convenient, safe and secure.

Frank Cheung, Chairman of Picowork Picowork recently launched collaborative-cloud-computer

Today, communication, collaboration and interactions take place on the cloud, and through different messaging applications or web platforms. However, the information and content is not exclusive to those involved; different applications and providers control the data, and own the "who, what, when, where, and how" content of every bits of information exchanged. With or without your approval, your information will be used for various other commercial purposes.

As the reliance with web platforms and applications intensifies, so does the flow of information and resources on the internet. "The need to communicate and collaborate almost instantly over the Internet have opened up new challenges and concerns as information and content is in the hands of third-party hosts and providers," said Frank Cheung, Chairman and CEO of Picowork Limited.

Individuals, for example, may receive targeted email and online advertisements after viewing a travel blog post on Facebook, or a friend request from a shuttle service on your instant messenger because Google Maps was used at the airport to check-in. For enterprises, this means that all sensitive information is owned and online interactions is monitored by the application providers.

Cheung further noted that the current cloud architecture is fragmented as the vast majority of information and resources on the cloud are hosted with a small number of providers. Communication and collaboration online can only occur through the same external applications, which leaves control and complete authority to these providers.

The key to breaking through this bottleneck is a structural system aimed at encouraging and enhancing collaboration in a agile, controllable, free and extendable environment.

Picowork Limited, established in 2010, is a network-software company specializing in the research and development of online cloud services. The Company has recently launched Collaborative Cloud Computer (CCC) and Collaborative Cloud Operating System (CCOS) to address the ever growing transition demands onto the cloud.

"We are one of the few companies in the world to offer an open and secure framework, which enables users to fully collaborate independently on the cloud. All communications, interactions and content take place in your own self-contained environment and space," Cheung explained.

Picowork enables a collaborative environment designed to manage resources scattered across the Internet and assimilate available online services into a single, interoperable framework which will allow users to also freely utilize the available online tools and continue to use existing web applications with no integration required.

Highlights of Picowork, CCC and CCOS:

The "Collaborative Cloud" system enables users to interact in a fully independent cloud environment. Any collaboration, communication and interactions can take place in the self-contained cloud space. The Collaborative Cloud Computer (CCC) can be installed onto any data center; public or private. CCC interoperable property across any existing PC and/or mobile devices makes it much more desirable given the difficult in coordinating collaborative activities and business interactions CCC can assimilate existing online services and remove the need for standardization and concerns over compatibility issues. Users can communicate ideas with audio or video calling, share data and files, work collaboratively on tasks as well as invite any internal, external and cross-cloud user to interact all under one cloud environment. Web applications, content, and systems, such as ERP can be imported and developed through the SDKs of CCC and CCOS. Aggregate data ownership and information is in the hands of the users and businesses to capitalize.

For more information, please visit www.picowork.com.

Contact:

George Hu

886-919563599

[email protected]

SOURCE Picowork

Related Links

http://www.picowork.com


LEWISBURG, Pa., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- PlayPower, Inc., a global leader in the recreation industry, today announced a partnership with The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation, a non-profit organization that funds children's causes focused on critical issues, such as health, nutrition, and recreation. Together, PlayPower and The Foundation will bring inclusive play spaces to area communities.

Pictured in photo left to right: Fritz Heinemann, President, Andy Russell Charitable Foundation, Central Region; Annette Camuso-Sarsfield, Cindy Russell, Andy Russell

Andy Russell, Chairman of The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation, is a 12-year veteran of the Pittsburgh Steelers and a 7-time Pro Bowl player. Recognized for just as many merits off the field as during his playing days, Andy and his wife Cindy, have devoted their retirement years to numerous charitable endeavors, especially those focused on children's issues. The recipient of countless awards and honors, Andy and Cindy are tireless in their efforts to improve the lives of children with mental, physical and health challenges, or impoverished circumstances. "We are thrilled to partner with PlayPower," said Andy Russell. "Having our two organizations collaborate to provide a rich, exciting, inclusive play space where children of all abilities can grow and learn is a wonderful opportunity for The Foundation."

PlayPower and The Foundation will be working together to create a truly inclusive 9,600 sq. ft. play space in central Pennsylvania, Snyder County. The play space will be located at the East Snyder Park in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. The play space will feature innovative Playworld play equipment, which is manufactured in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. The truly inclusive design will offer play experiences for children of all abilities; a chance to engage with one another, to make new friends, to be encouraged, to overcome a challenge, and to learn compassion and empathy.

"We are honored to partner with Andy Russell and The Russell Charitable Foundation," said Annette Camuso-Sarsfield, PlayPower's Chief Human Resources Officer. "The Foundation has brought smiles to the faces of many children and families over the years and it's wonderful that they now will have an important presence in the central Pennsylvania region. Our mutual commitment and dedication to healthy, happy children are the core of the partnership. The new inclusive play space is about everyone enjoying and sharing in the holistic benefits of play: physical, sensory, and social. It will be a great place for all ages and abilities to enjoy."

Since its inception, The Foundation has awarded more than $6 million dollars in grants to various charitable organizations.

About The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation

The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation was created in March 1999, primarily to contribute funds to children's charities. The Foundation hopes to support several programs, particularly important mediation research organizations concentrating on those for children. To date, the foundation has supported the following charities: Children's Hospital Free Care Fund, The Ronald McDonald House, Leukemia Society, The Cancer Society, Economics PA, Cystic Fibrosis, Mothers Hope, Juvenile Diabetes, SIDS, and Pittsburgh Vision Services.

About PlayPower

PlayPower is a global leader in the recreation industry. The company is headquartered inNorth Carolina, with manufacturing facilities in Missouri, Pennsylvania, Texas, Germany, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. PlayPower brands include EZ Dock, HAGS, Little Tikes Commercial, Miracle Recreation, Playworld, Soft Play, USA Shade, and Wabash Valley. PlayPower's vision is To Inspire the World to Play through its mission of Creating Outstanding Play Environments for All Ages and Abilities. More information is available at www.PlayPower.com. PlayPower is a portfolio company of Littlejohn & Company, LLC and is actively seeking add-on acquisitions.

Media Contacts:

PlayPower: Annette Camuso-Sarsfield, [email protected], 570.522.5312

The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation: Fritz Heinemann, [email protected], 570.522.5322

Pictured in photo left to right: Fritz Heinemann, President, Andy Russell Charitable Foundation, Central Region; Annette Camuso-Sarsfield, Cindy Russell, Andy Russell

Related Images

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Related Links

PlayPower's website

The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation's websiste

SOURCE PlayPower and The Andy Russell Charitable Foundation
PARIS AIR SHOW, Paris, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), announced today that it will expand its global network of providers that maintain the company's revolutionary PurePower Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines to include Pratt & Whitney's Eagle Services Asia Pte Ltd (Pratt & Whitney Singapore Engine Center).

The Singapore Engine Center will become one of Pratt & Whitney's industry leading maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) providers located around the world that deliver high quality maintenance support to GTF engine operators including Pratt & Whitney, MTU Aero Engines, Japanese Aero Engines Corporation and Lufthansa Technik.

"Asia is home to a large base of carriers that will fly GTF-powered A320neo aircraft," said Kevin Kirkpatrick, executive director, Aftermarket Operations  Asia Pacific. "Expanding the MRO network to support customers in this region is a strategic decision for us."

"We welcome Pratt & Whitney's investment in Singapore to perform maintenance of its advanced GTF engines," said Tan Kong Hwee, director, Transport Engineering, Singapore Economic Development Board. "This addition underscores Singapore's competitiveness and attractiveness as a location for aerospace MRO activities, and our strong partnership with OEMs such as Pratt & Whitney. The new capabilities that our engineers will acquire will strengthen our leadership position in MRO within the region."

The Pratt & Whitney Singapore Engine Center will provide engine maintenance for the PW1100G-JM. An estimated capital investment of nearly US$85 million will outfit the facility with advanced capabilities such as an environment control system and an engine flow line system. Pratt & Whitney expects modifications to the facility to start in 2018, and GTF engine service to commence in 2019.

"The addition of GTF engine capability into our Singapore engine overhaul center complements our current ability to support the existing PW4000 engine fleet," Kirkpatrick said. "For example, we will be upgrading the test cell, which will in turn improve productivity, reduce set up time and boost efficiency across operations. Our current customers of PW4000 engines will benefit from these enhanced technologies."

Wong Yue Jeen, senior vice president, Partnership Management and Business Development at SIA Engineering Company Ltd (SIAEC) said, "The investment in the GTF engine capability is another milestone in our partnership with Pratt & Whitney, and will position the engine center strongly to tap on growth opportunities arising from the large orders of A320neo aircraft powered by GTF engines in the region."

The Singapore Engine Center is a joint venture with SIA Engineering Company Ltd (SIAEC). It currently performs heavy maintenance for PW4000 and GP7200 engines and will be ready for disassembly, assembly and testing of GTF engines by 2019.

The GTF engine family is setting new standards in the aerospace industry. The GTF engine improves fuel efficiency by 16 percent, reduces regulated emissions by 50 percent and cuts the noise footprint by 75 percent.

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. United Technologies Corp., based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries. To learn more about UTC, visit its website at www.utc.com, or follow the company on Twitter: @UTC.

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in levels of demand in the aerospace industry, in levels of air travel, and in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production support, performance and realization of the anticipated benefits of advanced technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corp.'s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Pratt & Whitney

+1 (860) 565-9600

[email protected]

SOURCE Pratt & Whitney

Related Links

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PARIS AIR SHOW, Paris, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney debuted "Go Beyond," its new brand platform, at the Paris Air Show, with advertising strategically placed throughout the show sharing the company's belief that flight is an engine for human progress. "Go Beyond" represents both the company's long-standing commitment to accelerating the technology of modern flight, and the "never stop solving" mindset of its employees.

"Over the course of Pratt & Whitney's 90-plus year history, one element of the culture has always stood out, and that is our dedication to pushing limits and 'going beyond' to find the next great innovative step forward," said Pratt & Whitney's President Robert F. Leduc. "We 'go beyond' for our partners, our customers, and most of all, for each other, because what we do results in people connecting with each other, economies benefitting from greater access to markets and trade, and ensuring militaries around the world are mission-ready. We take our responsibility seriously. Every day we touch people's lives who depend on the Pratt & Whitney engines in service today, and it is a singular honor for everyone at Pratt & Whitney."

Pratt & Whitney's new advertising focuses on the core missions of connecting people, growing economies and helping to protect the world.

"Pratt & Whitney employees consistently 'go beyond' to find ways to make aircraft engines faster, stronger, quieter and more efficient across our diversified portfolio," said Susanne Reed, Pratt & Whitney's vice president of Communications. "The success of being selected on many new aircraft programs is what continues to give us purpose. Our brand platform reflects that shared purpose and mission of everyone at Pratt & Whitney, and it also reflects the result of our intent  the fact that we are the engine of choice not just today, but in the future, and we will continue to go beyond for our customers, whether it is in data analytics for better predictive maintenance or developing the next suite of services."

About Pratt & Whitney

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. United Technologies Corp., based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries. To learn more about UTC, visit its website at www.utc.com, or follow the company on Twitter: @UTC.

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in levels of demand in the aerospace industry, in levels of air travel, and in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production support, performance and realization of the anticipated benefits of advanced technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corp.'s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

Pratt & Whitney

+1 (860) 565-9600

[email protected]

SOURCE Pratt & Whitney

Related Links

http://www.pratt-whitney.com


"The spirit, if not the practical application of Fred Friendly's principles, has not been abandoned," Holt said. "Just look at the exceptional quality of the journalism all around us these last several months related to Russian attempts to influence our election and the unprecedented actions at the executive level. Journalism has excelled  not withered  in the face of a sustained assault on its very legitimacy. That is something to be proud of and reminds us we should never take for granted our First Amendment rights, nor the responsibilities that come with it."

Holt joined NBC News in 2000 and is known for his outstanding work in the field, reporting and anchoring from breaking news events across the world.

"No one works harder or insists on staying with a story longer, whether it is a domestic or foreign story," said Lee Kamlet, dean of the School of Communications. "Whenever possible, he wants to put his boots on the ground."

Holt's field reporting often focuses on people most directly affected by the biggest stories of the day. In the week leading up to the presidential inauguration in January 2017, he traveled across the U.S. talking with Americans about the nation's most pressing issues and their hopes for the next four years. Holt also hosted a roundtable of South Carolina voters before the 2016 primary, spoke with Baltimore residents following city-wide protests in April 2015, and had an exclusive talk with the witness who recorded the Walter Scott shooting.

Previous recipients of the Fred Friendly First Amendment Award are: Dan Rather, Bill Moyers, Lesley Stahl, Ted Koppel, Tom Brokaw, Robert MacNeil, Jim Lehrer, Don Hewitt, Peter Jennings, Mike Wallace, Christiane Amanpour, Tom Bettag, Tim Russert, Bob Schieffer, Steve Kroft, Charles Gibson, Morley Safer, Gwen Ifill, David Fanning, Martha Raddatz, Scott Pelley, Richard Engel and Charlie Rose.

SOURCE Quinnipiac University

Related Links

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MTS sensors provide detailed intelligence data from the visual and infrared spectra in the form of high definition full motion video. The new compact version has the same imaging and targeting capabilities that have made the MTS product family, including MTS-A, MTS-B, MTS-C and MTS-D ( AN/DAS-4 ), the sensor of choice for U.S. military imaging and targeting systems:

high definition sensors covering the spectral bands from visible to long wave infrared

diode pump laser designator/rangefinder

laser target marker

automated bore sight alignment

three mode target tracker

automated moving target acquisition

built in provisions for future growth.

"The Compact MTS delivers capabilities of sensors nearly twice its size at half the weight, making it ideally suited for platforms where space is at premium," said Roy Azevedo, vice president of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Systems at Raytheon's Space and Airborne Systems. "We've taken more than 4 million combat flight hours of experience and packed them into a compact turret."

Raytheon has delivered more than 3,000 MTS systems on a wide range of platforms, including: remotely piloted aircraft like the MQ-9 Reaper, helicopters like the MH-60 Seahawk and fixed-wing aircraft like C-130J Hercules. MTS delivers superior performance and reliability at the lowest life-cycle cost.

About Raytheon

Raytheon Company, with 2016 sales of $24 billion and 63,000 employees, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, civil government and cybersecurity solutions. With a history of innovation spanning 95 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration, C5I products and services, sensing, effects, and mission support for customers in more than 80 countries. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts. Follow us on Twitter.

www.raytheon.com

Media Contact

Mark Kasperowicz

+1.972.952.3526

[email protected]

SOURCE Raytheon Company

Related Links

http://www.raytheon.com


SAN DIEGO, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson & Weaver, LLP (J&W) has launched an investigation into whether the board members of Rice Energy Inc. (NYSE: RICE) breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to EQT Corporation (NYSE: EQT). Rice Energy is an independent natural gas and oil company that engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquid (NGL) properties in the Appalachian Basin.

On June 19, 2017, Rice Energy announced they have entered into a definitive merger agreement, in which EQT will acquire Rice Energy. Terms of the deal call for Rice Energy shareholders to receive 0.37 shares of EQT common stock and $5.30 in cash for each share of common stock held. The value of the transaction, based on EQT's closing stock price as of June 16, 2017, is approximately $27.04 per Rice Energy share. Shareholders will be subject to the future price fluctuation of EQT's stock price.

The investigation concerns whether the Rice Energy board failed to satisfy their duties to the Company shareholders, including whether the board adequately pursued alternatives to the acquisition and whether the board obtained the best price possible for Rice Energy shares of common stock. Johnson & Weaver is investigating whether the proposed deal price represents adequate consideration, especially given that the price target for one Wall Street analyst is $40 per share. The 52-week high for Rice Energy is $29.36.

Rice Energy has a change of control provisions for key executives. Potential payments upon termination or change-in-control were valued at over $38million.

If you are a shareholder of Rice Energy and believe (1) the proposed buyout price is too low or (2) the merger benefits management more than the shareholders, and (3) you're interested in learning more about the investigation or your legal rights and remedies, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker ([email protected]) at 619-814-4471.

About Johnson & Weaver, LLP:

Johnson & Weaver, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York and Georgia. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://www.johnsonandweaver.com. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Contact:

Johnson & Weaver, LLP

Jim Baker, 619-814-4471

[email protected]

SOURCE Johnson & Weaver, LLP

Related Links

http://johnsonandweaver.com


The brands collaborated to create a one-of-a-kind box filled with products that have been hand-selected by Allure's beauty experts and Rue La La's beauty buyers. The boxes aim to bring the finest items on the market straight to consumers with selections from across the beauty category  including makeup, nail lacquer, dry shampoo, moisturizer and more  in a mix of travel and full sizes.

"Beauty is one of the fastest-growing categories for Rue La La," said Jeff Steeves, SVP Marketing, Rue La La. "Our Members expect the hottest, newest and best product on the market  so connecting with Allure to curate these boxes is invaluable and the perfect way to give our Members exactly what they crave."

Rue La La sources notable beauty brands and continues to focus on bringing its Members the next big beauty name or product. On any given day beauty sales are running on the Rue La La site, selling out in record time.

"We're excited to give Rue La La's Members a new way to discover some of the best beauty products on the market," said Jill Friedson, VP, Marketing, Conde Nast Women's Collection. "Each box includes editor-tested products, product reviews and tips  our point of difference that's hugely valuable to shoppers!"

The co-branded series consists of three boxes: this first summer box, one with top picks for fall beauty and one for the holiday season.

The limited-edition series will be available for purchase at ruelala.com/allurebox.

Each box is $39.99, and upon purchasing the June box, Members will be automatically enrolled to purchase the subsequent two boxes.

About Rue La La

Rue La La strives to be the most engaging off-price, online style destination connecting world-class brands with the next generation shopper. Each day, Rue La La Members discover the most desired men's, women's, and children's apparel and accessories; beauty, home decor and accents; and exclusive destinations and experiences. Rue La La's engaging approach to retail has brought theater and excitement to online shopping, creating a captivating e-commerce destination that strategically supports its brand partners and inspires its Members daily. Rue La La is ranked #8 on Internet Retailer's 2016 Mobile 500 List. Visit us at www.ruelala.com.

About Allure

Allure is the beauty expert, an insiders' guide to a woman's total image, with a print audience of 6.2 million and an average monthly online audience of 6.5 million.

Allure's mission is to investigate and celebrate beauty and fashion with objectivity and candor and to examine appearance in a larger cultural context. Through its journalistic approach and high aesthetic standards, Allure delivers content with credentials, which yields unwavering consumer trust.

Contact:

Trisha Spillane

Rue La La

617-790-3666

[email protected]

SOURCE Rue La La

Related Links

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The International Fire & Security Exhibition and Conference (IFSEC) India Expo, South Asia's largest security, civil protection and fire safety show by UBM India, is gearing up for its 11th edition between December 6-8 at New Delhi, later this year. The show brings together internationally renowned exhibitors, consultants, business experts and key government officials under one common platform.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130723/629764-a )



(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524706/IFSEC_India_Logo.jpg )



Significantly, in an industry where upgradation of technology is the very key to surviving competition, the IFSEC India Expo provides high-impact, informative demonstrations and a wealth of opportunities for visitors to network and learn about cutting-edge technologies, industry best practices, trends, challenges, market insights and discover the best solutions to keep their business and clients secured.

Over the past few editions, IFSEC India has included in its already formidable repertoire, products and technologies pertaining to biometrics, transport, access control, in addition to surveillance for the knowledge of end users and providers by global brands such as Bosch, Dahua, Aditya Infotech, D-Link, Honeywell Security, Panasonic, Toshiba, Zebronics, Autocop, Infinova, ADI, Lookman, Hi-Focus, Unv, Zkteco, Hanwha Techwin, Secureye, Seagate, Essl, Sparsh, ERD, Alba Urmet, Assa Abloy, Matrix, Wavesight, Tyco, Milestone and Godrej, to name just a few.

The South Asia region, which the IFSEC India Expo brings within its radar, is an especially vulnerable as well as progressive zone when it comes to security and surveillance in a three pronged manner.

Safety issues in a terror prone region: The constantly evolving cities in this geographical region face higher criminal activities, war and terrorism threats that are a source of critical concern for citizens in terms of disaster preparedness and prevention. Crowding up of cities: A United Nations study revealed that about 66% of the global population will be living in cities by 2050, up from 53% today. Ninety percent of that increase will be accounted for by Africa and Asia , with the latter's urban population set to reach 2.7bn. As cities absorb thousands of new arrivals every year, Asian governments are increasingly turning to technology to cope with the strain - more specifically, 'smart' technology. The need for data security and privacy in the South Asian IT hub: The South Asian region, and India specifically, is rightly perceived as an IT hub with ambitious digital programmes, that while having tangible benefits, often struggle with issues like networks resiliency, privacy and data security. An IDC study projects that the threat of some form of major breach over IoT networks in the coming two years at no less than 90%.

The IFSEC India Expo seeks to provide comprehensive solutions and pointers to the security and surveillance domain in the region. Last year, in 2016, the IFSEC India Expo reached an important milestone and achieved a new momentum with the 10th anniversary of its inception, with the participation of over 20 participating countries such as Australia, China, Hungary, India, Korea, Malaysia, Russia, Singapore, Sweden, Taiwan, UAE, UK and USA & over 300 big brands.

While the percentage of unique visitors increased by 12 percent, Day 2 and 3 of the expo saw the number of visitors surpassing 6,000 a day, in itself a record achievement. Conferences centred around 'Creating a Smarter and Safer World with State-of-the-art Security Technology', 'Border Management Strategy', 'Challenges of Leftist Extremism and its Impact on National Security'; 'Public Transport Security' and 'Securing the Digital Network' were covered by industry stalwarts, which saw an impressive exchange of views. To commemorate the ten years, the first ever IFSEC India Awards was also launched, to recognise and reward innovation and excellence in the domain.

Speaking on the ten years of IFSEC India's existence, Managing Director, UBM India, Mr Yogesh Mudras said, "Over the years, IFSEC India owes its rich legacy to the 40-year-old IFSEC Global and success to the way the Indian edition has modified itself to suit the specific needs of this region. Recommended by industry experts as the pre-eminent authority on the global security and fire industry, the expo has nudged us on the path to a completely secure, smart and digitally enhanced world."

He added, "The 10th anniversary of IFSEC India Expo was extremely special to us. Apart from the plethora of impressive products, content-led conferences, key exhibitors and the presence of industry stalwarts, our intensive on-ground engagement and impeccable strategizing played a vital part in its success story. We reached out to small & large-scale Industrial hubs, manufacturing units and factories, private institutes, hardware and security markets, schools, offices & corporate houses, educating them on the importance of this industry's output."

Looking ahead, an impressive array of features is being planned for the 11th edition of the IFSEC India expo. These include an even greater industry participation, tie-ups with associations and governing bodies, a line up of the most innovative products, power-packed conferences to proactively decipher insights gained in the global security market by a conglomeration of the industry's most talented and reputed professionals on trending industry topics .

Commenting on the 11th edition of the IFSEC India expo, Group Director, UBM India, Mr. Pankaj Jain said, "IFSEC India 2017 is an ideal platform for industry professionals globally who are looking at joint ventures, partnerships/associations with key decision makers, sourcing, and networks tapping into the growing Indian security market. The expo acts as a most effective launch pad and base to showcase new products in the region and tap its limitless potential. The focus of this year's expo will be on Homeland Security and IoT, the two most vital issues in this vertical right now, and the industry is keenly looking at comprehending these at length during the show."

About UBM India:

UBM India is India's leading exhibition organizer that provides the industry with platforms that bring together buyers and sellers from around the world, through a portfolio of exhibitions, content led conferences & seminars. UBM India hosts over 25 large scale exhibitions and 40 conferences across the country every year; thereby enabling trade across multiple industry verticals. A UBM Asia Company, UBM India has offices across Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. UBM Asia is owned by UBM plc which is listed on the London Stock Exchange. UBM Asia is the leading exhibition organizer in Asia and the biggest commercial organizer in mainland China, India and Malaysia. For further details, please visit ubmindia.in.

About UBM plc:

UBM plc is the largest pure-play B2B Events organiser in the world. In an increasingly digital world, the value of connecting on a meaningful, human level has never been more important. At UBM, our deep knowledge and passion for the industry sectors we serve allow us to create valuable experiences where people can succeed. At our events people build relationships, close deals and grow their businesses. Our 3,750+ people, based in more than 20 countries, serve more than 50 different sectors - from fashion to pharmaceutical ingredients. These global networks, skilled, passionate people and market-leading events provide exciting opportunities for business people to achieve their ambitions.

For more information, go to http://www.ubm.com; for UBM corporate news, follow us on Twitter at @UBM ,UBM Plc LinkedIn

Media Contact:

Roshni Mitra / Mili Lalwani - UBM India

Email - [email protected] / [email protected]

Telephone: +91-22-61727000



SOURCE IFSEC India
SAN FRANCISCO, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of San Francisco State University students and members of the local Jewish community today filed a lawsuit alleging that SFSU has a long and extensive history of cultivating anti-Semitism and overt discrimination against Jewish students. According to the suit, "SFSU and its administrators have knowingly fostered this discrimination and hostile environment, which has been marked by violent threats to the safety of Jewish students on campus." The plaintiffs are represented by a team of attorneys from The Lawfare Project and the global law firm Winston & Strawn LLP.

The lawsuit, which was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California and also names as defendants, the Board of Trustees of the California State University System, SFSU President Leslie Wong and several other University officials and employees, alleges that "Jewish students at SFSU have been so intimidated and ostracized that they are afraid to wear Stars of David or yarmulkes on campus."

The lawsuit was triggered following the alleged complicity of senior university administrators and police officers in the disruption of an April, 2016, speech by the Mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat. At that event organized by SF Hillel, Jewish students and audience members were subjected to genocidal and offensive chants and expletives by a raging mob that used bullhorns to intimidate and drown out the Mayor's speech and physically threaten and intimidate members of the mostly-Jewish audience. At the same time, campus police  including the chief  stood by, on order from senior university administrators who instructed the police to "stand down" despite direct and implicit threats and violations of university codes governing campus conduct.

The lawsuit states that "SFSU has not merely fostered and embraced anti-Jewish hostility it has systematically supported  student groups as they have doggedly organized their efforts to target, threaten, and intimidate Jewish students on campus and deprive them of their civil rights and their ability to feel safe and secure as they pursue their education at SFSU SFSU continues to affirm its preference for those targeting the Jewish community, according to the lawsuit, by claiming to handle such incidents successfully by removing the Jewish students from their lawful assembly without allowing them the opportunity to exercise their free speech rights."

Making matters worse, no actions were ever taken by SFSU against the disruptive students, no disciplinary charges were ever filed, and no sanctions were ever imposed against the groups or students responsible for committing these acknowledged violations.

"Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is the underpinning of the modern American ethos of equal protection and anti-discrimination. This case isn't about Jews, it's about equal protection under the law," says Brooke Goldstein, Lawfare Project Director. "If the courts fail to apply Title VI in this context, we are creating a massive loophole that will ultimately be exploited to target other marginalized minority communities. If we refuse to enforce anti-discrimination law for Jews, if we say Jews don't deserve equal protection, it will erode constitutional protections for everyone. Jews must be protected the same as any other minority group, or the bedrock of civil rights law will crumble."

In addition to the disruption of the speech by Nir Barkat, the lawsuit describes a long list of discrimination, intimidation and mistreatment of Jewish students at SFSU. Following are just a few examples:

In 1994, a ten-foot mural was erected on SFSU's student union building that portrayed yellow Stars of David intertwined with dollar signs, skulls and crossbones, and the words "African Blood."

In 1997, a banner depicting an Israeli flag with a swastika next to an American flag with a dollar sign was hung over the same wall where the 1994 mural had been painted.

In April of 2002, posters appeared around campus advertising an event called "Genocide in the 21st Century," featuring a dead baby on the label of a soup can, surrounded on either side by Israeli flags.

In May of 2002, following a Peace rally, a small group of Jewish students were targeted by a large group of students who shouted bigoted and offensive remarks, including "Hitler didn't finish the job," "Get out or we'll kill you," and "Go back to Russia ."

." In 2009, SFSU hosted on-campus events that advocated for the elimination of the Jewish state of Israel .

. In 2016, President Wong complained that in all his years, he had never seen a university donor withhold a pledge because of a "political issue." A Jewish Studies faculty member told him, "the physical safety of Jewish students is never a political issue." President Wong replied, "on this, we will have to agree to disagree."

In 2017, when specifically asked whether Zionists are welcome at SFSU, President Wong refused to provide the only proper answer: "Yes." Instead, President Wong demurred, stating "That's one of those categorical statements I can't get close to. . . . Am I comfortable opening up the gates to everyone? Gosh, of course not."

While SFSU actively supports virulently anti-Jewish and groups and events at the university, according to the lawsuit, its administrators have done just the opposite for Jewish students. "SFSU has repeatedly denied Plaintiffs' student groups, including Hillel and the Jewish fraternity Alpha Epsilon Pi equal access to campus events that welcome other non-Jewish student organizations at the University The anti-Jewish animus pervading SFSU's campus is as ubiquitous as it is hostile. Jews are at best ignored, but more often ostracized in every corner of the university community. While other groups are able to host events, obtain permits and participate in 'tabling' at student fairs, Jewish groups are customarily forced to fight for these basic rights as tuition-paying students, no matter how hard they work to follow processes correctly and avoid controversy."

The lawsuit comes at a crucial time for Jewish students across the United States. According to the lawsuit, "Anti-Semitic incidents at colleges and universities have been rising at exponential rates, doubling from 2014 to 2015 and increasing from 90 to 108another 20 percentfrom 2015 to 2016According to the FBI hate crimes statistics from 2015 (the most recent year calculated), anti-Jewish incidents accounted for 57 percent of all religiously motivated hate crimes."

Furthermore, the suit was filed just four days after an announcement by the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which is tasked with federal enforcement of Title VI on university campuses, stating that the office would be "scaling back" investigations into discrimination against "whole classes of victims It is abundantly clear that, unless courageous Jewish students like these plaintiffs bring lawsuits to enforce their own civil rights, they will have no other recourse than to suffer the discrimination in perpetuity."

"Anti-Semitism, like any other form of racism, is totally repugnant and cannot be countenanced. This lawsuit intends to address the rampant anti-Jewish animus pervasive at SFSU. Jews are entitled to the same civil rights as all Americans," says Lawrence Hill, a senior partner at Winston & Strawn LLP and member of The Lawfare Project's Board of Directors. "When our universities, which are supposed to be institutions of tolerance that encourage freedom of expression, instead foment prejudice and suppress free speech, we cannot stand idly by. College students are America's future. Their minds shouldn't be poisoned with hate and their voices shouldn't be silenced by a mob."

Amanda Berman, The Lawfare Project's Director of Legal Affairs, who has been investigating SFSU for more than 14 months, added, "Every couple of weeks, another anti-Semitic incident has occurred without any meaningful action from SFSU administrators. These defendants seem to believe that they are above the law, that discrimination against Jews is entirely acceptable, and that their response to criticism must go only so far as to placate Jewish donors. It is time for profound institutional change at SFSU, and since the faculty and administration is entirely unwilling to pursue such a goal, Jewish victims of this pervasively hostile environment have been left with no choice but to ask a federal court to compel it."

A copy of the lawsuit can be found at: http://thelawfareproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/SFSU-Federal-Complaint.pdf.

SOURCE The Lawfare Project
SAN RAFAEL, Calif., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanovas, Inc., a Life Science technology company innovating the next-generation of micro-invasive medical technologies, announced today that it has achieved an agreement with the People's Government of Suzhou, China, to establish a venture capital fund and Innovation Center at the Suzhou Institute of Nanotechnology and NanoBionics (SINANO) at the Chinese Academy of Sciences located within the Suzhou Industrial Park Biotechnology Innovation Center at BioBay, to advance the company's innovations and sales in China.

"We respect Sanovas and the company's approach to developing innovative technologies and improving treatments in medicine for so many," stated Xiang Wang, Mayor of Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China.

Sanovas Suzhou will operate as a Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise in China. The Sanovas Suzhou Venture Capital Fund will directly invest upwards of $75M in the development and growth of Sanovas' groundbreaking innovations in Surgical Imaging, Thoracic Oncology, Interventional Pulmonology, E.N.T., Ophthalmology and Bioscience.

The transaction creates multiple opportunities for Sanovas in China; to include the 30,000 sq. ft. Innovation Center SINANO at BioBay. The agreement provides Sanovas with access to scientific, technology and medical collaboration with SINANO faculty, scientists, engineers, doctors, and local hospitals to aide Sanovas' ongoing efforts to miniaturize and advance medical technologies and therapies to improve access (through affordability and portability) to care for our global society.

"Through positive relations and the forging of solid friendships, we have joined hands with the People's Government of Suzhou and Suzhou Industrial Park Biotechnology Innovation Center to bring Sanovas' innovation engine to one of the largest and best-planned life science innovation hubs in the world," said Larry Gerrans, Sanovas Founder and CEO. Consistent with Sanovas' inspiration to surround its excellence with the very best minds and the very best talents throughout the world, the Suzhou Institute of Nanotechnology and NanoBionics, the Chinese Academy of Sciences and BioBay strongly position Sanovas at the 'tip of the spear' for the 21st Century's breakthroughs in Life Science."

The China-Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), encompassing more than 111 sq. miles of dedicated biotechnology facilities and infrastructure recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Suzhou's proximity to the Shanghai financial hub and its educated, skilled talent pool has enabled SIP's expansive growth and its ranking as the best industrial park in China. In 2015, Suzhou City was ranked as the 7th largest city in China by GDP, grossing over $211B. With a population nearing 11 million citizens Suzhou City is home to more than 25,000 companies, of which over 100 are Fortune 500 firms.

"We are proud to invite Sanovas to build the future of medicine in BioBay. Sanovas technologies can save lives and improve treatments for much more people in China and the world!" said YU Jiqiang, Director, Chairman Suzhou Industrial Park Biotechnology Innovation Center at BioBay. "The Suzhou Industrial Park is strongly supported by the National Biotech Innovation Center of China and is ranked #1 among China's National High-Level Industrial Parks as determined by the China Ministry of Commerce. Sanovas is a company that will help keep us number 1."

Sanovas' presence in SINANO will also benefit from collaboration with many the world's top scientists and researchers, including the Oxford University Research Institute in Suzhou Industrial Park.

"This agreement creates a venture capital fund purposed solely for advancing the capitalization for Sanovas' intellectual properties, technologies, and products in China. It establishes a state of the art biotechnology facility in SINANO and BioBay, one of the largest think tanks and commercial enterprise zones for advancing scientific and medical innovation in the world.

It brings over $75 million in capitalization for Sanovas' expansion in China; the incorporation of five of Sanovas subsidiaries in China, and firmly positions Sanovas for long-term growth in the China market, the second largest consumer market in the world for medical technology, for years to come," said Gerrans.

About Sanovas

Sanovas is redefining intervention with access, imaging, and measurement technologies that enable physicians to perform more interventional procedures, in more places, more affordably. The company is dedicated to developing the full continuum of best-in-class minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic technologies and solutions that are affordable, accessible, and safe across multiple procedures and specialty areas.

Contact:

Steve Goldsmith

[email protected]

415-729-9391 extension 1023

SOURCE Sanovas

Related Links

http://www.sanovas.com


SEATTLE, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Seattle-based family law firm Goldberg Jones is excited to welcome attorney Gregory Morphew to the team.

A dedicated, experienced attorney, Gregg is committed to fighting for the rights of his clients. A strong advocate, he's a valuable resource for husbands and fathers in the Seattle area and is a great addition to the Goldberg Jones team in the Pacific Northwest.

Prior to becoming an attorney, Gregg worked in law enforcement and the security industry for more than 25 years. This provided him a unique perspective on legal matters, as well as the opportunity to develop excellent interpersonal communication skills and experience crafting important documents.

Before making the shift to family law full time, Gregg also practiced in business and real estate law. In addition to working as a practicing attorney, he's an enthusiastic, passionate teacher. For years, he taught introductory and business law courses at South Seattle College. He is also a member of the Washington, Oregon, and Alaska bar associations and all federal courts within those states.

Managing attorney Ken Alan says, "With his background in law enforcement, Gregg brings a well-rounded perspective to the firm. And his teaching experience just shows the true depth of his knowledge and understanding."

Gregg is experienced in all areas of litigation, from drafting and filing motions, to negotiating settlements, as well as inside the courtroom. Detail-oriented and thorough, he's an enthusiastic, compassionate litigator dedicated to pursuing an optimal outcome for his clients in divorce, child custody, and other family law cases.

Approachable and dependable, Gregg's experience and commitment make him an important piece of the Goldberg Jones team and a resource for the husbands and fathers of Seattle, King County, and the surrounding areas.

About Goldberg Jones

Goldberg Jones is a local office of family law attorneys serving Seattle and the communities of Western Washington. We have grown from a three-person startup to a multi-state firm with more than 28 lawyers devoted solely to the practice of family law, specifically, protecting the rights of husbands and fathers.

Our representation is focused on providing dedicated advocacy for men in divorce, child custody, child support, and most other family law matters. Our divorce attorneys in Washington, Oregon, and California are knowledgeable and aggressive in protecting the rights of husbands and fathers under Washington divorce laws. For more information, please visit https://www.goldbergjones-wa.com/

SOURCE Goldberg Jones

Related Links

http://www.goldbergjones-wa.com


SAINT PAUL, Minn., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Second Harvest Heartland is excited to announce that it has been awarded a $87,500 grant to support the food bank's efforts to serve hungry seniors. The grant is one of twelve awarded by Feeding America and is made possible by funding from the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Foundation. It is the largest investment Feeding America has made to date to support senior hunger programs.

"In Minnesota, seniors are the fastest-growing segment of the population visiting food shelves," said Rob Zeaske, CEO of Second Harvest Heartland. "This grant will help us reach more of our older neighbors who need help with food."

Last year, the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Foundation announced the launch of the Fill Your Tank program, one of the largest donations aimed at fighting hunger around the globe. As part of the program, Enterprise is supporting Feeding America and its network of food banks to strengthen programs aimed at combatting senior and child hunger.

Enterprise Holdings Foundation Vice President and Executive Director Carolyn Kindle Betz said, "Enterprise Rent-A-Car is woven into the fabric of communities across the country. Seniors with food insecurity is an issue in many of these communities and our donation and partnership with Feeding America will help address this critical need."

Second Harvest Heartland is one of 200 food banks in the Feeding America network that collectively provides food assistance to 46 million Americans struggling with hunger. Grant funds will help Second Harvest Heartland reach more seniors in senior housing with food assistance. Grant funds will also help the food bank strengthen partnerships with United Community Action Partnership to serve seniors in Lincoln and Lyon counties and Prairie Five Community Action to serve seniors in Chippewa, Lac Qui Parle and Swift counties.

About Second Harvest Heartland

Second Harvest Heartland is one of the nation's largest, most efficient and most innovative hunger relief organizations. Second Harvest Heartland provides an average of 75 percent of all food distributed by its food shelf partners, and in 2016, provided more than 80 million meals to nearly 1,000 food shelves, pantries and other partner programs serving 59 counties in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Second Harvest Heartland leads through innovation, finding efficient, effective solutions to connect the full resources of our community with our hungry neighbors. For more information, visit 2harvest.org or call 651.484.5117.

About Feeding America

Feeding America is the nationwide network of 200 food banks that leads the fight against hunger in the United States. Together, we provide food to more than 46 million people through 60,000 food pantries and meal programs in communities across America. Feeding America also supports programs that improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

SOURCE Second Harvest Heartland

Related Links

http://www.2harvest.org


CALGARY, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - (TSX: EGL): Eagle Energy Inc. announced that a second independent corporate governance and proxy advisory firm, Glass Lewis & Co. LLC, agrees with Eagle - the dissidents are NOT better suited to lead Eagle. They only stand to create greater uncertainty for Eagle's shareholders.

In its recent report, Glass Lewis concluded, "direct support for Kingsway's platform stands to generate greater uncertainty for investors at this time , both with respect to the reconstituted board's ability to effectively manage the consequences of Eagle's lending arrangements and





the Dissident's stated preference for quick asset sales in an unattractive market." This is the simple and straightforward Glass Lewis conclusion. The dissidents will of course ignore that conclusion. Instead, they will selectively point to Glass Lewis quotes that they think favor them, continuing to mislead Eagle shareholders.

Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS) have now both confirmed what Eagle has said all along:



Eagle Glass Lewis ISS The Dissidents' strategy will NOT create long term value. Eagle will not obtain good value by a quick asset sale in the currently depressed market.





Eagle will lose any potential upside with its assets.





 Eagle's loan can be called if there is a change in control. The dissidents have proposed no alternative financing.    The dissidents may not share the same investment objectives or value maximizing perspectives of remaining shareholders. The dissidents themselves are on the buy side of energy assets at this time. Mr. Gundersen already tried to buy one of Eagle's assets at below value.    Do NOT vote for the dissident nominees using the dissidents' proxy. Vote ONLY the Yellow Proxy.   

Eagle's incumbent Board enjoys strong support from Eagle's shareholders, contrary to what the dissidents may want shareholders to believe.



Eagle's current board is better suited to lead Eagle forward and merits your continued support.



Vote the YELLOW Proxy or Voting Instruction Form.

VOTE YELLOW FOR EAGLE'S BOARD

Vote for Eagle's Board using ONLY Eagle's YELLOW Proxy or Voting Instruction Form.

Discard the dissidents' (blue) proxy or voting instruction form. (Voting on the dissidents' proxy or voting instruction form, even if it is against their nominees, will cancel your previous vote using Eagle's YELLOW Proxy or Voting Instruction Form.)

If you have already voted using the dissidents' proxy or voting instruction form, you can change your vote by simply voting using the YELLOW Proxy or Voting Instruction Form. It is the later-dated proxy or voting instruction form that will be counted.

For more information, Eagle Shareholders are encouraged to review in detail Eagle's letter to Shareholders and the Management Information Circular on its website at www.EagleEnergy.com or under Eagle's profile at www.sedar.com.

VOTE TODAY. Time is of the essence and Eagle Shareholders are urged to vote online by following the instructions found on the YELLOW Proxy or Voting Instruction Form to ensure votes are received in a timely manner.

Eagle's Board thanks you for your continued support. QUESTIONS OR REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE WITH VOTING MAY BE DIRECTED TO EAGLE'S PROXY SOLICITOR: Laurel Hill Advisory Group NORTH AMERICAN TOLL FREE: 1-877-452-7184 COLLECT CALLS OUTSIDE NORTH AMERICA: 1-416-304-0211 EMAIL: [email protected]

About Eagle Energy Inc.

Eagle is an oil and gas corporation with shares listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "EGL".

All material information about Eagle may be found on its website at www.EagleEnergy.com or under Eagle's issuer profile at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE Eagle Energy Inc.
"Co-locating SSB's headquarters and our brands on the same campus is an investment in our employees and our company as we continue to expand and strengthen our market leadership," said Michael Traub, SSB Chief Executive Officer. "An integrated and unified work environment that will foster better collaboration, innovation and teamwork, will better support our growth trajectory. This is what our new location will deliver."

The approximately 210,000-square foot facility, which will be built and designed specifically for SSB, will span five acres and feature an Innovation Center and multi-brand showrooms. Additionally, Serta and Beautyrest will each have their own separate and distinct spaces on the new campus to maintain brand differentiation.

"We are delighted to welcome Serta Simmons Bedding to Assembly and the Doraville community," said Mayor Donna Pittman of Doraville. "We appreciate their confidence and investment, and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership."

Holder Properties is the selected developer for the new headquarters and Rule Joy Trammell + Rubio are the lead base building architects. Hendrick and Associates will design the headquarters' interior and JLL serves as the real estate advisor for SSB. Integral is the master developer of Assembly.

"We are thrilled we will be calling Doraville 'home'," said Traub. "SSB is pleased to contribute to the growth and development of the Doraville community and we look forward to further expanding our business and joining our teams together here."

About Serta Simmons Bedding, LLC

Serta Simmons Bedding, LLC ("SSB") is the largest distributor and manufacturer of mattresses in the United States. The Atlanta-based company owns and manages two of the largest bedding brands in the mattress industry, Serta, which has five other independent licensees, and Beautyrest. The two brands are distributed through national, hospitality, and regional and independent channels throughout North America. SSB operates 32 manufacturing plants in the United States, six in Canada and one in Puerto Rico. For more information about SSB and its brands, visit www.sertasimmons.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact or relating to present facts or current conditions included in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "seek," "plan," "intend," "believe," "will," "may," "could," "continue," "likely," "should," and other words. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by SSB in this press release speaks only as of the date on which it is made. SSB does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Investors Contact:

Serta Simmons Bedding

D. Paul Dascoli, CFO

[email protected]

770-673-2625

Media Contacts:

Serta Simmons Bedding

Noreen Pratscher, VP of Corporate Communications

[email protected]

770-730-1822

SOURCE Serta Simmons Bedding, LLC

Related Links

http://www.sertasimmons.com


DEARBORN, Mich., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Shape Corp., a global tier-one automotive and industrial component supplier, is the latest manufacturer to join the growing list of companies partnering with the SME Education Foundation to expand its exemplary manufacturing education program for high school students. The Foundation, Shape Corp. and Grand Haven Area Public Schools will collaborate through SME's Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education (PRIME) initiative, to develop and launch an advanced manufacturing education program at Grand Haven High School in Grand Haven, Michigan, beginning in the 2018 academic year.

Shape Corp. is dedicated to producing a talented future workforce, often participating in career-building events and industry activities to increase awareness of the opportunities within manufacturing. On an annual basis, Shape supports and hosts local West Michigan teams from the Future Prep'd program, which engages students in solving real business problems. Shape regularly participates in career exploration events, including Boomerang, MiCareerQuest and others. Students often tour Shape's facilities, gaining an introduction to processes, products and the varying types of work that are needed for the business to succeed.

"Shape has a long history of engagement with students, and we have partnered with numerous organizations to attract these young people to potential career opportunities in manufacturing," said Mark White, president, Shape Corp. "We are very excited about partnering with the SME Education Foundation and look forward to growing a great manufacturing education program in Grand Haven."

PRIME builds a collaborative network of students, educators and industry professionals to provide high school students with advanced manufacturing career pathways, while driving their interest and awareness in manufacturing. This national program provides students with practical experience, knowledge and skills using state-of-the-art technology and equipment, while allowing companies to influence the career direction of youth through mentoring, internships and job shadowing.

"The SME Education Foundation has partnered with some of the best companies in the manufacturing industry, and we are proud to add Shape Corp. to this distinguished list," said Brian Glowiak, vice president, SME Education Foundation. "We also look forward to working with the skilled and enthusiastic educators at Grand Haven High School who will foster their students in becoming future manufacturing engineers and technologists."

With more than 2,000 students and 125 staff members, Grand Haven High School is home to a wide variety of courses and includes curriculum designed to meet and adapt to the needs of 21st century education. The school's academic emphasis focuses on preparing students for college as well as the increasingly competitive and technologically advanced workplace, laying the foundation for a great partnership with the SME Education Foundation and its PRIME initiative.

"We are very impressed with the SME Education Foundation's work and its accomplishments through the PRIME initiative," said Andrew Ingall, superintendent, Grand Haven Area Public Schools. "Our students will benefit greatly from engagement with Shape Corp. as well as the plethora of opportunities offered through PRIME."

Alliances with local manufacturing associations play a major role in connecting business and education within the manufacturing community. The Shape Corp. and Grand Haven Area Public Schools collaboration is a result of the SME Education Foundation's partnership with the Michigan Manufacturers Association, which began in 2016 to help boost Michigan's already strong manufacturing presence and provide much-needed support to an industry seeking a large influx of new talent.

"We are very proud to be part of the partnership with Shape Corp., the SME Education Foundation and Grand Haven Area Public Schools," said Mike Johnston, vice president, government affairs, Michigan Manufacturers Association. "The vision of Shape Corp. and the Grand Haven school leaders to work together to harmonize their missions to provide both career opportunities for students and provide talent to grow local companies should be commended. We hope this will serve as a model for communities to cooperate all over the state."

About the SME Education Foundation

The SME Education Foundation is committed to inspiring, preparing and supporting the next generation of manufacturing engineers and technologists. Since its creation by SME in 1979, the SME Education Foundation has provided grants, scholarships and awards through its partnerships with corporations, organizations, foundations and individual donors. Each year, the Foundation awards several hundred scholarships to students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering and technology disciplines closely related to manufacturing. The organization also administers scholarship awards on behalf of major corporations connected to manufacturing. Additionally, the Foundation's PRIME initiative was created to provide high school students with a tailored advanced manufacturing /STEM education.

Visit the SME Education Foundation at smeeducationfoundation.org. Follow @mfgeducation on Twitter or facebook.com/SME.Education.Foundation.

About SME

SME connects all those who are passionate about making things that improve our world. As a nonprofit organization, SME has served practitioners, companies, educators, government and communities across the manufacturing spectrum for more than 80 years. Through its strategic areas of events, media, membership, training and development, and the SME Education Foundation, SME is uniquely dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing by addressing both knowledge and skills needed for the industry. Learn more at sme.org, follow @SME_MFG on Twitter or facebook.com/SMEmfg.

About Shape Corp.

Shape Corp. is a full service supplier of custom metallic, plastic, composite and hybrid solutions. A tradition of process and material advancements have positioned the company as a roll forming pioneer and injection molding specialists. Shape primarily serves the automotive sector, but also supplies a diversified collection of non-automotive industries. Founded in 1974, the company remains a privately owned, family company. Shape employs more than 3,500 global associates in North America, Europe and Asia. Learn more at shapecorp.com.

About Grand Haven High School

Grand Haven High School is a comprehensive public high school in West Michigan, on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan and is the flagship of the Grand Haven Area Public Schools. A broad range of students are served including over 30% free-reduced lunch, multiple programs for students with disabilities and English language learners along with programs for students wishing to earn college credit in high school. The high school has been regularly recognized by outside organizations for excellence including AP Honor Roll, US News and World Report Silver Medal (top high schools in the nation) and Bridge Magazine Academic State Champs. Grand Haven High Schools mission is to ensure that all students have equal opportunity to achieve success. This includes the development of the whole person, preparation for post-secondary options in an ever-changing world, and learning how to learn, make decisions, and work with others. Having nearly 2,200 students and adults under one roof each and every day, it's important that we build our climate to feel small; therefore, we operate under the expectations that we are TEAM GH ... One Family, One Team, One Grand Haven!

SOURCE SME Education Foundation
"We are excited to start on the fifth SDTA CH-53K King Stallion and support a significant upgrade for the warfighter," said Tony Kondrotis, Spirit AeroSystems vice president of Defense programs. "The lightweight composite structures we are providing to Sikorsky will give the Marine Corps a much-needed additional capability. We look forward to continuing to deliver on this program for many years to come."

Spirit has received or manufactured nearly 1,500 parts to support major assembly of the next helicopter. Spirit is responsible for the composite cockpit and cabin structure with a separately attached tail section. The lightweight structures support the CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter's capability of conducting an unrefueled mission carrying 27,000 pounds over 110 nautical miles in high/hot conditions, which is triple the load-carrying capacity of the current CH-53E Super Stallion.

Spirit is one of the world's leaders in designing and building complex composite structures and has already delivered 11 units.

"The CH-53K program demonstrates Spirit's capabilities as a supplier of major structures to the defense industry," said Spirit Senior Vice President of Boeing & Defense Programs Duane Hawkins. "We look forward to the day when this capability is in the hands of the warfighter and they are equipped to carry more cargo in more demanding operational environments and then return home safely."

Earlier this year, Sikorsky announced the program successfully achieved the Milestone C decision that enables low-rate initial production. The U.S. Department of Defense's Program of Record remains at 200 CH-53K aircraft. The Marine Corps intends to stand up eight active duty squadrons, one training squadron and one reserve squadron to support operational requirements.

Spirit employs about 15,000 people worldwide designing and building complex aerostructures for the world's most recognizable airplanes. The company has a proven track record of developing commercial best practices and adapting them for use on defense programs.

On the web: www.spiritaero.com

On Twitter: @SpiritAero

About Spirit AeroSystems

Spirit AeroSystems designs and builds aerostructures for both commercial and defense customers. With headquarters in Wichita, Kansas, Spirit operates sites in the U.S., U.K., France and Malaysia. The company's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components for the world's premier aircraft. Spirit AeroSystems focuses on affordable, innovative composite and aluminum manufacturing solutions to support customers around the globe. More information is available at www.spiritaero.com.

SOURCE Spirit AeroSystems

Related Links

http://www.spiritaero.com


"As we researched the issue of diversity in tech, we realized that it goes way beyond HR initiatives. The absence of LGBTQ community, women, and visible minorities in technology and computer science is a systematic disappointment. There are many studies and articles addressing this subject but very few calls to action. That's why we asked leaders in our forward-thinking industry to aid us in a call to arms."

Participants in the #HackDiversity campaign include: Jeannette Stock, Chairman of Venture Out; Heather Payne, CEO of HackerYou; Jaime Woo, Engineering Communications at Shopify; Elena Armstrong, Co-founder of Exact Media; Ali Asaria, CEO of Tulip Retail; Salim Teja, Executive Vice President, Ventures at MaRSDD.

The top calls to action from participants are unanimous:

1) Increase diversity in the pipeline by fostering an accessible and welcoming environment for visible minorities. Adequate representation will encourage young people from diverse backgrounds to acquire the skills they need to enter the workforce

2) Prioritize diversity in company culture, talent acquisition, retention and advancement. Report on diversity numbers and benchmark for success

3) Overcome unconscious workplace bias through transparent and open communication

"Diversity needs to be fundamentally rooted in the tech industry. Technology and innovation are meant to disrupt the status quo and to make the wold a better place. We, as technologists, are responsible for creating equitable products for everyone," says Pecherskiy.

The #HackDiversity project invites members of the tech industry in Canada to join our efforts in fostering an equal and inclusive environment.

SOURCE StackAdapt
LOUISVILLE, Ky., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- "The delivery of FirstNet's state plan for review within Kentucky is a significant step toward providing Kentucky's first responders with the services they need to help save lives and protect communities. We encourage Kentucky to move quickly to review the state plan. Following review, should Kentucky opt in, AT&T (NYSE: T) can begin delivering FirstNet services to Kentucky's public safety entities.

"This network will strengthen and modernize public safety communications in the Commonwealth and help first responders to operate faster, safer and more effectively when lives are on the line. The FirstNet network will also bring investment to America's communications infrastructure. During 2014-2016, AT&T invested nearly $700 million in Kentucky's wired and wireless networks, and we will build upon that investment to bring first responders the coverage, value and experience they expect."

SOURCE AT&T
NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Greenhill & Co., Inc. (NYSE: GHL), a leading independent investment bank, announced today that Stephen E. Conner has joined the Firm as a Managing Director focused on the Energy Services sector, based in New York.

Mr. Conner was most recently a Managing Director at Perella Weinberg Partners, where he led the Oilfield Services advisory practice. Prior to his 7 years at Perella Weinberg, he spent 11 years as an investment banker at Morgan Stanley, focused on mergers and acquisitions generally before focusing on the energy sector. Earlier in his career he spent 2 years as an analyst Smith Barney.

Scott L. Bok, Chief Executive Officer of Greenhill, said, "We are pleased to broaden our energy sector advisory business by bringing Steve on board. He has 20 years of relevant experience, deep experience in the energy sector generally, and strong client relationships in the energy services sector. These relationships will be invaluable to both our M&A and restructuring advisory businesses."

Greenhill & Co., Inc. is a leading independent investment bank entirely focused on providing financial advice on significant mergers, acquisitions, restructurings, financings and capital raising to corporations, partnerships, institutions and governments globally. It acts for clients located throughout the world from its offices in New York, Chicago, Dallas, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Melbourne, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto.

Contact: David M. Trone

Director of Investor Relations

Greenhill & Co., Inc.

(212) 389-1800

SOURCE Greenhill & Co., Inc.
"Paul's deep financial experience with strong consumer brands will be invaluable as we continue to personalize the shopping experience for men and women," said Katrina Lake, founder and CEO of Stitch Fix. "His passion for art and science aligns with our brand philosophy, and his leadership will be a tremendous addition to Stitch Fix's executive team and our growth as a company."

Yee joins a seasoned leadership team with diverse experience from brands like Netflix, Sephora, lululemon, Nike and Walmart.com.

"Stitch Fix's unique blend of data science and the human touch is changing the way consumers find apparel and accessories they love," said Yee. "I'm inspired by Stitch Fix's vibrant company culture and creative approach to retail, and I'm proud to be joining this team on its journey to reinvent shopping for millions of men and women."

About Stitch Fix:

Stitch Fix is the world's leading online personal styling service tailored to your taste, budget and lifestyle that helps both men and women discover the apparel and accessories that they love.

Apparel and accessories range from $20 - $400 per item, and include many beloved brands such as Ella Moss, Joie, Splendid, Trina Turk, Penguin and Scotch & Soda, as well as hundreds of smaller, boutique labels. Founded in 2011 by CEO Katrina Lake, Stitch Fix is headquartered in San Francisco, California and employs 5,800 people. For more information about Stitch Fix, please visit http://www.stitchfix.com.

SOURCE Stitch Fix

Related Links

http://www.stitchfix.com


BEIJING, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- (LinuxCon+ContainerCon+CloudOpen China)  SUSE today launched SUSE CaaS (Container as a Service) Platform, a development and hosting platform for container-based applications and services. The solution is a valuable new piece of SUSE's growing software-defined infrastructure portfolio, which integrates open source technology to drive next-generation innovations that matter to customers. SUSE CaaS Platform lets IT operations and developers provision, manage and scale container-based applications and services to meet business goals faster.

Organizations looking to improve business agility are adopting a software-defined infrastructure approach to support containerization of their applications. Most are either containerizing existing applications directly or using a modern microservices architecture approach. SUSE CaaS Platform supports both tactics, helping customers be more agile and reduce operating costs.

"Container innovation is improving how applications are developed and run, but companies don't want to have to set up and maintain a complex and secure container infrastructure by themselves," said Thomas Di Giacomo, SUSE CTO. "They want to focus on creating applications that bring value to their business. So SUSE is providing an easy-to-use container infrastructure solution that helps them deploy next-generation, cloud native container-based applications and progressively migrate traditional and existing apps."

SUSE CaaS Platform consists of three key components  orchestration using Kubernetes, a purpose-built operating system (SUSE MicroOS) for microservices and containers, and configuration capabilities  that provide the following benefits to customers and partners:

Reduced time to market using out-of-the-box platform capabilities that enable customers to implement orchestration using production grade Kubernetes, deploy resilient container services, maximize portability, and develop in a trusted computing environment.

Increased operational efficiency with automation of deployment management tasks and full application lifecycle support of containers using the built-in container toolset. It provides capabilities to manage on-premise registry, build container images, securely patch container images, collaborate securely and use trusted images from the SUSE Registry.

Enablement of DevOps for improved application lifecycle management. It bridges developers and operations using a single, unified container platform that helps save development and operations time. It also makes it easy to deploy microservices and enables coexistence of configuration and code.

"SUSE envisions several key use cases for its CaaS platform, including the enablement of DevOps and microservices implementations for faster and more automated application releases across different infrastructure," said Jay Lyman, principal analyst, Cloud Management and Containers, for 451 Research. "Organizations interested in enterprise-grade security, reliability and scalability with containers are the ones most likely to be interested in the SUSE CaaS Platform."

Partner Statements on SUSE CaaS Platform

Craig Parker, head of Integrated Systems Business at Fujitsu in EMEIA, said, "As we endeavor to equip our customers with the latest in container innovations, SUSE's Container as a Service Platform provides us with a strategic choice to adopt a modern container infrastructure solution while saving costs in building and maintaining a proprietary set of container tools. In addition, the integrated SUSE MicroOS and Kubernetes gives us a good option to run container-based applications on Fujitsu hardware and keep them up to date with minimal manual intervention."

Will Ochandarena, senior director of Product Management at MapR Technologies, said, "Stateful application containers are a critical component of next-generation intelligent applications. The end-to-end container management provided by the SUSE CaaS Platform nicely complements the persistent data services provided by the MapR-XD Cloud-Scale Data Store to enable applications that operationalize data-driven insights in real-time."

Tim McIntire, co-founder of StackIQ, said, "In addition to our support for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, we are delighted to partner with SUSE and support their Container as a Service Platform. Our joint customers get the benefit of lightning-speed deployments of container farms on bare metal with Open Source Stacki, and an improvement in performance from running containers directly on bare metal."

For more information about SUSE CaaS Platform, visit www.suse.com/products/caas-platform.

About SUSE

SUSE, a pioneer in open source software, provides reliable, interoperable Linux, cloud infrastructure and storage solutions that give enterprises greater control and flexibility. More than 20 years of engineering excellence, exceptional service and an unrivaled partner ecosystem power the products and support that help our customers manage complexity, reduce cost, and confidently deliver mission-critical services. The lasting relationships we build allow us to adapt and deliver the smarter innovation they need to succeed  today and tomorrow. For more information, visit www.suse.com.

Copyright 2017 SUSE LLC. All rights reserved. SUSE and the SUSE logo are registered trademarks of SUSE LLC in the United States and other countries. All third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE SUSE

Related Links

http://www.suse.com


HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, goodnessKNOWS snack squares is encouraging people to take a small step to get closer to their goals  and what better way to start than on June 21  the first day of summer and International Yoga Day. To give everyone an opportunity to participate in the brand's inaugural "Try a Little Yoga Day," goodnessKNOWS will be hosting the celebration LIVE on its Facebook page with yoga and snack recipe demos from experts.

Hosted by TV personality and lifestyle blogger Ali Fedotowsky-Manno, the event will kick-off at 3:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, June 21 on the goodnessKNOWS Facebook page. The event will begin and conclude with yoga instruction led by fitness expert Liz Germain of Super Sister Fitness, and Fedotowsky will be there along the way to help answer fans' questions and encourage everyone to get out a mat (or towel, or bath rug) and follow along.

In between yoga poses, goodnessKNOWS snacking expert, Carlene Thomas, MS RD, Healthfully Ever After will join the Facebook Live to show Fedotowsky and fans the benefits of mindful snacking with recipes and tips that will fuel your small steps this summer.

For some inspiration to get started on your journey to reaching your goals this summer, Fedotowsky shares the following three tips that have worked for her:

Only Commit to the First Step : "When I consider heading to a yoga class, the only commitment I make to myself is getting to the parking lot of the class. Once I'm sitting in the parking lot in my yoga clothes, I'm more likely to actually go inside and take the class. It might sound silly, but it's a small step that works for me!"

: "When I consider heading to a yoga class, the only commitment I make to myself is getting to the parking lot of the class. Once I'm sitting in the parking lot in my yoga clothes, I'm more likely to actually go inside and take the class. It might sound silly, but it's a small step that works for me!" Make Fitness Work For You: " I try to go to a yoga studio when I can, but as a new mom, it's not always something I can fit into my schedule. Instead, I find ways to work out around my house  when I'm playing with my daughter, I'll toss her up in the air multiple times to help tone my arms or I'll dance around the house to be silly and keep her entertained - every little bit counts!"

I try to go to a yoga studio when I can, but as a new mom, it's not always something I can fit into my schedule. Instead, I find ways to work out around my house  when I'm playing with my daughter, I'll toss her up in the air multiple times to help tone my arms or I'll dance around the house to be silly and keep her entertained - every little bit counts!" Eat Mindfully and Enjoy Yourself: "It's important to listen to what my body is craving and hungry for and become more aware of how I can best nourish it. A snack like goodnessKNOWS, with real fruit, whole nuts and dark chocolate, not only satisfies my sweet tooth, but takes the guesswork out of portion control. I really like having the option to snack on one or two squares to fuel me when I'm on the go, and I still have the rest of the pack to enjoy later!"

As its own small step to being its best, goodnessKNOWS also recently debuted a new, bolder logo design and new packaging that highlights those same, delicious ingredients on the front of the pack. Keep an eye out for the new look on shelves near you and enjoy identifying which flavor of snack squares speaks most to your snacking journey.

Don't forget to follow goodnessKNOWS at Facebook.com/goodnessKNOWS and be sure to tune in at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21. For more information about goodnessKNOWS, visit goodnessKNOWS.com or follow us on Instagram and Twitter at @goodnessKNOWS.

About goodnessKNOWS snack squares

goodnessKNOWS is crafted with the goodness of whole nuts, real fruits, toasted oats and dark chocolate, and is divided into four snackable squares per serving  all for 150 calories. It contains no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners and is gluten-free.

goodnessKNOWS snack squares are available nationwide in six flavors, all crafted with dark chocolate: Cranberry & Almond; Apple, Almond & Peanut; Peach, Cherry & Almond; Blueberry & Almond; Mixed Berry & Almond; and Strawberry & Peanut. Depending on retailer, goodnessKNOWS snacks are $1.28 - $1.99 per serving (four squares) and $4.49 - $6.99 per 5-serving multipack carton. For more information, please visit www.goodnessKNOWS.com.

About Mars, Incorporated

Mars is a family-owned business with more than a century of history making diverse products and offering services for people and the pets people love. With almost $35 billion in sales, the company is a global business that produces some of the world's best-loved brands: M&M's, SNICKERS, TWIX, MILKY WAY, DOVE, PEDIGREE, ROYAL CANIN, WHISKAS, EXTRA, ORBIT, 5, SKITTLES, UNCLE BEN'S, MARS DRINKS and COCOAVIA. Mars also provides veterinary health services that include BANFIELD Pet Hospitals. Headquartered in McLean, VA, Mars operates in more than 80 countries. The Mars Five Principles  Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom  inspire its more than 85,000 Associates to create value for all its partners and deliver growth they are proud of every day.

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

Contact: Angelina Franco

Mars Chocolate North America

(862) 217-3158

[email protected]

SOURCE goodnessKNOWS

Related Links

http://www.goodnessKNOWS.com


AUSTIN, Texas, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas is headed to San Diego this week to showcase the state's thriving biotechnology and life sciences sector at the world's largest biotechnology conference, BIO International. More than 16,000 biotechnology and pharmaceutical leaders are expected to attend the annual conference.

Home to approximately 4,000 life science and research firms, and 100,000 workers in related fields, Texas is fast becoming "big in biotech" as it has generated groundbreaking discoveries in medical research, pharmaceutical development and treatment innovation. Dozens of global life sciences companies, such as Novartis, Abbott, Medtronic, McKesson, Galderma, Allergan and Monsanto, have major operations in the Lone Star State.

Led by Texas Secretary of State Rolando B. Pablos and organized by Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC) in partnership with the Office of Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute (THBI), the Texas delegation includes the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), 15 life sciences businesses and economic development organizations from across the state.

"BIO offers Texas a world stage to showcase our well-rounded strengths in health science, from our top-ranked workforce and business climate to our extensive R&D initiatives and breakthrough medical school programs," said Robert Allen, President and CEO of TxEDC. "Texas has become a very big player in this industry."

Just last month, for instance, the $310 million Dell Seton Medical Center at UT Austin opened its doors, anchoring a new healthcare innovation zone in downtown Austin. Dell Seton will serve as the primary teaching hospital for Dell Medical Schoolthe first medical training institution in nearly 50 years to be built from the ground up at a top-tier U.S. research university.

Texas Medical Center, the world's largest medical center, is also expanding its footprint in Texas with a 28-acre TMC3 translational research campus that will add to its existing campus by almost a third and bring together four of Texas' most powerful institutionsthe University of Texas, Texas A&M, Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, which ranks No. 1 for cancer care by the U.S. News & World Report's annual "Best Hospitals" survey.

Texas biotech and life sciences companies participating in the BioTexas Pavilion (Booth #427) include Lab7 Systems, Inc.; Castle Biosciences, Inc.; StemBioSysm, Inc.; OriGen Biomedical; PROLIM; TRI Air Testing; Optologix; Cible; Exegete Healthcare International; Wound Management Technologies; MANS Distributors, Inc.; Bracane Company; Fannin Innovation; American Biochemicals; and HealthBot.

About Texas Economic Development Corporation

Texas Economic Development Corporation is an independently funded and operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, whose mission is dedicated to economic development, business recruitment and job creation in the State of Texas. The public-private partnership coordinates efforts with the Office of the Governor to market Texas globally as a premier business destination. For more information about Texas Economic Development Corporation, visit www.texaswideopenforbusiness.com.

SOURCE Texas Economic Development Corporation

Related Links

http://www.texaswideopenforbusiness.com


Founder of Welcoming America recognized for building inclusive and prosperous communities for immigrants across the U.S. and beyond

NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Charles Bronfman Prize today announced David Lubell, Founder and Executive Director of Welcoming America, as its 2017 recipient for his work creating welcoming communities for immigrants and refugees. The Charles Bronfman Prize  and an award of $100,000  is presented annually to an innovative and dynamic humanitarian under the age of 50 whose work is informed by Jewish values and has global impact that changes lives and inspires future generations.

"At a time when the U.S. and countries around the world face unprecedented polarization, David Lubell's work creates understanding and connectivity between Americans and immigrants," said Charles Bronfman, the namesake of the Prize. "By ensuring they are made to feel welcome in their new homes, Welcoming America shows us how we can all benefit from the resilience, talent and positive impact of these new Americans  which has forever been the experience of our nation of immigrants. I am delighted by the judges' selection of David Lubell as the 2017 Charles Bronfman Prize recipient."

"On the eve of World Refugee Day, I am honored to bring awareness  through The Charles Bronfman Prize  to the courage and determination of all people who come to the U.S. for a better life, as well as to the importance of our country living up to its values as a welcoming nation," said Lubell. "Welcoming communities are vital to our shared future, and it is only by finding common ground and working together that our communities and nation can thrive. As a Jewish American, nothing could make me feel more connected to my values, and to my history, than working to 'welcome the stranger,' and I am thrilled that the judges recognized the significance of this work."

Launched in 2009, Welcoming America has spurred a growing movement across the U.S. connecting community, government and nonprofit leaders; building the capacity of these leaders to plan for inclusion for immigrants moving into their cities and towns; and helping communities change local systems and culture as they communicate the socioeconomic benefits of inclusion.

With a presence in more than 190 communities across the country, Welcoming America works to share promising practices and a common framework to help create an environment where everyone can truly thrive. Welcoming America's groundbreaking social change model is unique in its holistic local focus that recognizes that our differences as Americans are the source of our strength defined by our citizenship and shared values. The organization helps communities eliminate the institutional barriers that make it harder for immigrants to fully integrate, and works to address the concerns and needs of longtime residents in cities and towns where newcomers settle.

One in nine Americans now lives in a Welcoming Community committed to the economic, social and political integration of newcomers, including a significant proportion of the nation's major cities, and many smaller towns. At a time when 1 in 4 children in the U.S. is an immigrant, or the children of immigrants, Welcoming America's work is more relevant than ever. 40% of America's Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants, or their children, and Welcoming America is working to make sure immigrants can continue to help the U.S. reach its full potential.

The organization's model is also being applied in countries around the world such as Australia and Germany, addressing one of the greatest global challenges of our time.

"David is truly a model for how to effect change in this world," said Anne Marie Burgoyne, Managing Director of Social Innovation at Emerson Collective on behalf of his nominating team. "He is transforming the way Americans see immigrants and refugees and forging a more inclusive nation in which all people, including immigrants, have the opportunity to reach their greatest potential, engage with their community, and fully contribute their talents."

To learn more about David Lubell

ABOUT THE CHARLES BRONFMAN PRIZE

Previous Prize recipients include Etgar Keret, internationally acclaimed Israeli author, storyteller and filmmaker; Rebecca Heller, Co-Founder and Director of the International Refugee Assistance Project; Sam Goldman, Founder and Chief Product Officer of d.light; Eric Rosenthal, Founder and Executive Director of Disability Rights International; Eric Greitens, Founder of The Mission Continues; Karen Tal, Former Principal of The Bialik-Rogozin School and Co-Founder of Education Insights; Jared Genser, Founder and President of Freedom Now; Sasha Chanoff, Founder and Executive Director, RefugePoint; Mike Feinberg and Dave Levin, Co-Founders of the Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP); Rachel Andres, Founder and Director of Jewish World Watch's Solar Cooker Project; Dr. Amitai Ziv, Founder and Director of the Israel Center for Medical Simulation; Dr. Alon Tal, Founder of Israel's Arava Institute for Environmental Studies; and Jay Feinberg, Founder and CEO of the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Foundation.

The Charles Bronfman Prize celebrates the vision and endeavor of an individual or team under the age of 50 whose humanitarian work is inspired by Jewish values and whose accomplishments are of universal benefit. The Prize brings public recognition to their work and impact, providing inspiration to the next generations. An internationally recognized panel of Judges selects the Prize recipient(s) and bestows an award of $100,000. Ellen Bronfman Hauptman and Stephen Bronfman, together with their spouses, Andrew Hauptman and Claudine Blondin Bronfman, established The Charles Bronfman Prize to honor their father and his commitment to applying Jewish values to better the world and to inspire the next generations.

To learn more, please visit: www.TheCharlesBronfmanPrize.com

PRESS CONTACTS:

Meghan Addessi

Hiltzik Strategies

212-776-1163

[email protected]

Vanja Pantic Oflazoglu

Welcoming America

404-400-1902

[email protected]

SOURCE The Charles Bronfman Prize

Related Links

http://www.TheCharlesBronfmanPrize.com


Under the cover of small deposits-taking 'Nidhi' company, Vinod Kumar is running a money chain scam, says investigating officer.
Lockout-related injuries are preventable and The Master Lock Company has been at the forefront of developing products and services that keep workers safe. Recently, The Master Lock Company's Todd Grover, Global Senior Manager of Applied Safety Solutions, was a committee member of the new ANSI/ASSE Z244.1 Standard: Lockout, Tagout and Alternative Methods  a best-practices approach to controlling hazardous energy.

"We estimate 30 percent of companies do not have a lockout strategy in place, even though LOTO violations annually rank among the top ten most frequently cited standards by OSHA," said Grover. "Many companies incorrectly believe LOTO procedures will negatively impact operations but that's not true. Organizations that follow best-practice approaches from the ANSI/ASSE standard can protect workers while actually increasing productivity  a win-win for everyone involved."

Grover will present highlights of the new standard at an ASSE Safety 2017 breakout session on June 20 from 10:45-11:45 a.m.

At the show, The Master Lock Company is featuring new and recently introduced safety solutions, including:

New Retractable Cable Lockout Devices  The highly versatile Retractable Cable Lockout Devices allow employees to address challenging lockout situations, including gate valve and electrical applications. The devices feature nine-foot, adjustable cables to provide employees with ample length to lockout multiple energy-control mechanisms with a single device. Available now in two unique models suited for electrical or general applications.

Group Lock Boxes with Window  Master Lock's Group Lock Boxes with Window provide an enhanced solution for group lockout projects spanning daily maintenance to complex turnarounds. Designed to withstand the toughest environments, the lock boxes are made from 430-grade stainless steel and feature a clear, impact-resistant window so workers can see and rest assured knowing keys are secured inside the box during group lockout. Available to ship now in three models.

New Alternative Methods to Lockout Service and Training  The ANSI/ASSE Z244.1 standard provides expanded guidance on alternative methods to lockout when it's not possible or practical to fully shut down machinery. When full lockout is reasonably determined and documented not to be practical, procedures using alternative methods can provide a level of worker protection that is essentially equivalent to a zero-energy condition. OSHA recognizes alternative methods as exceptions. The Master Lock Company now offers Alternative Methods consulting services, which include on-site evaluation services and in-person training for the development of alternative methods.

New Machine-Guarding Assessment  Insufficient machine guarding is a leading cause of workplace injuries and The Master Lock Company recently expanded its Professional Lockout Services to include Machine-Guarding Assessments. Performed as a stand-alone service or in conjunction with other lockout services, this assessment helps companies prevent accidents, improve job efficiencies and ensure compliance with the latest machine-guarding regulations.

"For nearly 100 years, The Master Lock Company has been a leader in safety and security," said Matt Dudgeon, Director of Product Marketing. "Innovative products such as our new Retractable Cable Lockout Devices and Professional Lockout Services exemplify our commitment to helping companies of all sizes protect their workers and comply with OSHA."

Engage with The Master Lock Company at ASSE Safety 2017

The Master Lock Company's Kina Repp, who lost her arm in an industrial accidental, will share her moving story and highlight the importance of workplace safety at ASSE Safety 2017 in "Safety Beyond" in a breakout session on June 21 from 3-4:15 p.m., and throughout the show at the company's booth.

The Master Lock Company will offer hands-on demonstrations of the Retractable Cable Lockout Devices and Group Lock Boxes with Window as well as discuss its Professional Lockout Services at ASSE booth #1131 from June 19-22, in Denver, Colorado.

For more information, visit MasterLock.com/new-safety-products for safety products and MasterLock.com/PLOS for Professional Lockout Services.

About The Master Lock Company

The Master Lock Company is recognized around the world as the authentic, enduring name in padlocks and security products. Master Lock Company offers a broad range of innovative security and safety solutions for consumer, commercial, and industrial end-users. Master Lock Company LLC is an operating unit of Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc., a leading consumer brands company. Headquartered in Deerfield, Ill., Fortune Brands Home & Security Inc. (NYSE: FBHS), is included in the S&P 500 Index. For more information about Master Lock visit www.masterlock.com.

Media Contact:

John Arango

Zeno Group

(312) 396-9750

[email protected]

SOURCE The Master Lock Company

Related Links

http://www.masterlock.com


Roy Kapani, Executive Chairman at ECS said, "The Top Workplace Award is one of the most meaningful awards that a professional services company like ours can receive. Our customers and our company rely on the talent of our people. Providing an opportunity to grow is essential to creating a meaningful and valuable enterprise."

ECS has established a culture built to attract, recognize, and retain the very best professionals for our projects. ECS recognizes the value of each and every employee. We take great care of our team, offering outstanding benefits, exciting work environment, and ample opportunity for growth. Every day, our employees provide their technical talent to support our customers who serve, protect, and defend the American people.

About ECS Federal, LLC

ECS is an award-winning engineering, scientific, and professional services firm, founded in 2001 and headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia. ECS Federal delivers complex systems and solutions in cybersecurity, cloud and critical infrastructure to Department of Defense, Federal Civilian agencies, State/Local entities, and commercial clients. The programs and missions ECS supports are complex, unique and directly affect the lives of the American people. As an externally assessed CMMI Level 3 company, as well as an ISO 9001:2008, ISO/IEC 20000 and ISO/IEC 27000:2013 certified company, ECS' expertise and commitment to quality services are critical in meeting the missions of our customers. ECS has nearly 2,000 employees throughout the United States and has been recognized as a Top Workplace by the Washington Post for the last four years. For more information, visit www.ecs-federal.com.

SOURCE ECS Federal, LLC

Related Links

http://www.ecs-federal.com


TUCSON, Ariz., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- After a U.S. Super Hornet shot down a Syrian army jet, Russia announced that it would treat U.S. warplanes operating in parts of Syria where its air forces are present as "targets," and a U.S.-Russia hotline was terminated immediately, according to a story in the Independent.

Washington said the jet had dropped bombs near U.S.-backed forces, but Damascus said the plane was downed while flying a mission against ISIS militants. Russia accused the U.S. of a "deliberate failure to make good on its commitments" under a de-confliction agreement. Washington reportedly did not notify Russia of the planned action. Russia has been providing air cover for Syrian president Bashar al Assad since 2015.

"A worldwide conflict could be triggered by an incident in Syria, such as Russia or the U.S. destroying one of the other's warplanes, even if by accident," stated Physicians for Civil Defense president Jane M. Orient, M.D. "Judging by its strategic missile and civil defense programs, Russia does not consider a nuclear exchange to be unthinkable."

"Americans need to be aware that our country is deliberately unprotected against this possibility," she added. "Our survival may depend on 'self-help' civil defense.' In times of escalating international tensions, Americans need to learn about radiation monitoring and protection measures, and acquire some essential equipment and supplies."

She notes that if the internet is down, or electrical power is shut off, it will not be possible to download the free information that is available today. The small supply of suitable instruments will quickly be sold out in a time of crisis. "Federal help will not be available immediatelyor at all if multiple areas are targeted. Moreover, government civil defense expertise and infrastructure are mostly gone."

Radiation exposure standards are so stringent that firefighters may not be permitted to do rescue work even if contamination is not actually dangerous, she pointed out. Interviews of first responders reveal that most have had no training whatsoever.

Physicians for Civil Defense distributes information to help to save lives in the event of war or other disaster.

Contact: Jane M. Orient, M.D., (520) 323-3110, [email protected]

SOURCE Physicians for Civil Defense

Related Links

http://www.physiciansforcivildefense.org


RICHMOND, Va., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Effective June 19, Virginia United Methodist Homes, Inc., will change its name to "Pinnacle Living," reflecting its long-standing commitment to better serve its senior living residents.

Founded in 1948 by leaders of the Virginia Methodist Church, the organization has grown from a single community to seven communities across Virginia. Pinnacle Living is home to more than 1,240 residents in Richmond, Williamsburg, Roanoke, Norfolk, the Eastern Shore and Northern Virginia. It employs more than 1,000 team members.

"We realized our former name simply did not reflect who we are today," explained Christopher P. Henderson, president and CEO. "Today's seniors are more active and engaged. The people we serve want the very best out of life. For the last several years, we have been working to create a culture where age does not define a person. Our new name better represents our focus to provide the very best in partnership with our residents, their families and our team."

The organization invested a great deal of time listening to current and future residents and conducted consumer research regarding perceptions of its communities. Among the findings was a strong negative perception to the word "homes" in the former name. Today's seniors don't want to live in a "home." And many incorrectly assumed membership in The United Methodist Church was required to live or work in the organization's communities.

"We want to make it clear that we have always  and will continue  to welcome people of all faiths," said Henderson.

The name change and accompanying graphic design will roll out over the next few weeks, and continue for several months.

"We are proud of our heritage, and will continue to operate as a mission-driven, faith-based organization," said Henderson. "Our new name positions us for the future as we strive to better serve the next generation."

Pinnacle Living Mission: Enriching Life's Journey

SOURCE Pinnacle Living
This year's HTK theme " Convergence of Technologies" aims to explore interdisciplinary convergence within the areas of IoT, VR, AR, AI, HI, Robotics, Nano Tech Health-Tech, Industry 4.0, and Sustainable Technologies. In conjunction with the ALC's theme of " New Leadership in the Era of Hyper-Uncertainty: Towards Cooperation and Prosperity ", the international conference aims to galvanize one of the most powerful and influential change-making platforms in the world.

Keynote speakers at the HTK x ALC 2017 include:

Barack Obama , Former President of the United States will , Former President ofwill speak at the ALC

David Cameron , Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom will speak at the , Former Prime Minister of thewill speak at the ALC

Yasuo Fukuda , Former Prime Minister of Japan

HRH Prince Fahad al Saud , Founder & CEO of NA3AM

Bas Lansdorp , CEO of Mars One

Bibop Gresta, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies

H.E. Khalfan Belhoul CEO of Dubai Future Ventures and Dubai Future Accelerators

Mike Butcher , Editor At Large at TechCrunch

Justin Yifu Lin , Honorary Dean of National School of Development at Peking University / Former Chief Economist and Senior Vice President at the World Bank

Full list of speakers available at: http://hellotomorrow.kr/#speakers

The conference will also feature the top 10 finalists of the HTK Startup Challenge, South Korea's first dedicated deep-tech competition that highlights, empowers and connects the most promising startups in the country and serves as a fast-track to enter the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit in Paris. The winner of the HTK Startup Challenge will be awarded a $50,000 Rapid Technology Commercialisation Workshop and travel package to Paris as a Grand Prize, provided by Cambridge Consultants from the UK, a world-renowned technology consultancy.

Ticket prices start at $45.00 for a startup to over $4000 for a full two-day VIP package. To join HTK x ALC 2017 at a sponsored discount rate, participants can take advantage of this limited 50% discount sponsored code: HTKSponsored and visit http://hellotomorrow.kr. On-location / door registration is not available.

Hello Tomorrow Korea is part of a global non-profit initiative run by science-entrepreneurs for science-entrepreneurs and other entrepreneurial and business leaders. It seeks out promising innovations in South Korea, with the goal of transforming them into impact-driven solutions. To achieve this, HTK gathers highly-skilled changemakers from all scientific, industrial and economic sectors, who share the same ambition to find innovative solutions to the most pressing South Korean and Global issues. This ensures that South Korean innovators can meet the pertinent people at the right time.

Hello Tomorrow Korea Hello Tomorrow Korea Media Relations Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HelloTomorrowKorea/ KST (Korea Standard Time) Twitter: @HelloTomorrowKR Tel: +82-2-375-4620 LinkedIn: Hello Tomorrow Korea [email protected]

MEDIA ROOM

Google Drive Download: http://v.ht/Drive_Press-Release-Media-Assets_16June2017

Dropbox Download: http://v.ht/Dropbox_Press-Release-Media-Assets_16June2017

YouTube Conference Film: https://youtu.be/nPnK5wPBNNA

CONTACT: Carlo Jacobs (+82)-010-4408-9566

SOURCE Hello Tomorrow Korea

Related Links

http://hellotomorrow.kr


PARIS, June 18, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- XTI Aircraft Company (XTI) announced today at the Paris Air Show that it entered into Aircraft Reservation Deposit Agreements for the sale of its first three production units of the TriFan 600 vertical takeoff airplane.

"We're pleased to announce the first orders for the TriFan 600 under our pre-sales program," said Robert LaBelle, XTI's Chief Executive Officer. "From the outset, we've received strong interest from potential buyers who want to reserve their priority number for the TriFan. We expect these first orders to be followed by many more over the next few months and years."

The customer, a globally recognized operator, has asked XTI not to release their name, for competitive reasons. "This customer is fully committed to the XTI TriFan 600, and intends to place it into service flying priority passengers and cargo in VIP and Utility missions in multiple challenging environments," said LaBelle.

LaBelle continued, "The market is recognizing the value proposition of our unique and revolutionary airplane and its patented technology. Vertical takeoff combined with long-range, the speed and comfort of a business jet, and our quieter and cleaner state-of-the-art hybrid-electric propulsion system, as compared to tiltrotor technology. There's absolutely nothing comparable to the TriFan."

The TriFan 600 is a major breakthrough in aviation and air travel. The six-seat airplane will have the speed, range and comfort of a business jet and the ability to take off and land vertically, like a helicopter. It will travel at over 300 miles an hour, with a range of over 1,200 miles. Using three ducted fans, the TriFan lifts off vertically and then its two wing fans rotate forward for a seamless transition to cruise speed and its initial climb. It will reach 31,000 feet in just ten minutes and cruise to the destination as a highly efficient business aircraft.

ABOUT XTI AIRCRAFT COMPANY

XTI Aircraft Company is a privately owned aviation business based near Denver, founded in 2012. XTI is guided by a leadership team with decades of experience, a deep well of expertise, and success bringing new aircraft to market. XTI is founded on a culture of customer-focused problem solving to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers.

For information and updates about XTI Aircraft Company and the TriFan 600, visit www.xtiaircraft.com . To invest, go to www.startengine.com/startup/xti. For information on reserving a priority position for the TriFan, contact Robert LaBelle, CEO:

[email protected]

(571) 216-1594

Media Contact for XTI Aircraft Company:

Diane Simard

Sr. Vice President/Director/Media Relations

Bye Aerospace

[email protected]

Direct: (303) 817-7676

AN OFFERING STATEMENT REGARDING THIS OFFERING HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE SEC. THE SEC HAS QUALIFIED THAT OFFERING STATEMENT, WHICH ONLY MEANS THAT THE COMPANY MAY MAKE SALES OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED BY THE OFFERING STATEMENT. IT DOES NOT MEAN THAT THE SEC HAS APPROVED, PASSED UPON THE MERITS OR PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION IN THE OFFERING STATEMENT. YOU MAY OBTAIN A COPY OF THE OFFERING CIRCULAR THAT IS PART OF THAT OFFERING STATEMENT FROM:

https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1638850/000164460016000093/offeringcircularxti-2.htm

YOU SHOULD READ THE OFFERING CIRCULAR BEFORE MAKING ANY INVESTMENT.

THIS PRESS RELEASE MAY CONTAIN FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION RELATING TO, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE COMPANY, ITS BUSINESS PLAN AND STRATEGY, AND ITS INDUSTRY. THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE BASED ON THE BELIEFS OF, ASSUMPTIONS MADE BY, AND INFORMATION CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TO THE COMPANY'S MANAGEMENT. WHEN USED IN THE OFFERING MATERIALS, THE WORDS "ESTIMATE," "PROJECT," "BELIEVE," "ANTICIPATE," "INTEND," "EXPECT" AND SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS ARE INTENDED TO IDENTIFY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, WHICH CONSTITUTE FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS. THESE STATEMENTS REFLECT MANAGEMENT'S CURRENT VIEWS WITH RESPECT TO FUTURE EVENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES THAT COULD CAUSE THE COMPANY'S ACTUAL RESULTS TO DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE CONTAINED IN THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS. INVESTORS ARE CAUTIONED NOT TO PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, WHICH SPEAK ONLY AS OF THE DATE ON WHICH THEY ARE MADE. THE COMPANY DOES NOT UNDERTAKE ANY OBLIGATION TO REVISE OR UPDATE THESE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS TO REFLECT EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES AFTER SUCH DATE OR TO REFLECT THE OCCURRENCE OF UNANTICIPATED EVENTS.

SOURCE XTI Aircraft Company

Related Links

http://www.xtiaircraft.com


WASHINGTON, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of State and IREX are pleased to announce the arrival of the 2017 cohort of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders to the United States. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered in partnership with IREX, a global development nonprofit.

Accomplished in their careers and dedicated to service to their communities, the 2017 Fellows represent the diversity of Sub-Saharan Africa. Fellows are from both rural and urban areas, include individuals with disabilities, and represent equal numbers of women and men. The Fellows are leaders in public service, business, civil society, healthcare, education, agriculture, human rights, technology, and other fields. Selected from a pool of more than 64,000 applications, the Fellows bring a wealth of experience to the program and to the colleges and universities that will host them this summer.

During the first six weeks in the United States, Fellows will participate in Academic and Leadership Institutes at 38 colleges and universities in 25 states and the District of Columbia. During the Institutes, Fellows will study in one of three tracks: Business and Entrepreneurship, Civic Leadership, or Public Management. Through academic coursework, leadership training, experiential learning, and networking, Fellows will enhance their skills, develop innovative solutions to pressing challenges in their countries, and collaborate with their peers from across the continent. Fellows will also give back to their American host communities as volunteers. In 2016, Fellows contributed a combined total of 13,000 hours of community service to local organizations in cities and towns across the United States.

Following the Institutes, Fellows will convene in Washington, D.C. for the fourth annual Mandela Washington Fellowship Summit from July 31  August 2. During the Summit, Fellows will have opportunities to connect with each other and with U.S. professionals, setting the stage for continued collaboration when they return home. U.S. professionals are invited to join the Partnership Expo at the Summit, which provides American companies and organizations the opportunity to highlight the work they do in Africa and make connections with the next generation of African decision-makers.

After the Summit, 100 competitively-selected Fellows will join private, public, and nonprofit organizations across the country for a six-week Professional Development Experience, which are substantive, short-term placements that allow Fellows to contribute their skills and insights to American organizations. From 2014 to 2016, Fellows contributed nearly 80,000 work hours to 173 U.S. host organizations across the country.

Upon returning to their home countries, Fellows will continue to build the skills they have developed during their time in the United States through regional conferences, professional practicum experiences, and mentoring opportunities. Fellows may also apply for their American colleagues to travel to Africa to continue project-based collaboration through the Reciprocal Exchange.

To get involved in Fellowship activities near you, please contact [email protected]. Press inquiries may also be directed to [email protected].

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is a program of the U.S. government and is supported in its implementation by IREX. For more information about the Mandela Washington Fellowship, please visit yali.state.gov.

Alex Cole, Director of Strategic Communications, IREX

202-628-8188; [email protected]

SOURCE IREX

Related Links

http://www.irex.org


NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Nielsen (NYSE: NLSN) announced that Zenith, which is part of Publicis Media, has signed a new agreement for Nielsen's Local Television Measurement. The renewal will provide Zenith with continued access to Nielsen's local currency television (TV) ratings data across all 210 designated market areas (DMAs).

"At Zenith, we believe in having access to the most accurate and complete measurement data that provides us with a total market view of local TV audiences," said Joe Cerone, Executive Vice President of Local Media Investments at Zenith. "Nielsen is making substantial investments in its Local Measurement solutions, and we look forward to the evolution of the market currency combining the best that panels, return path, census data, OTT and other sources have to offer to measure the total viewing audience."

This year, Nielsen is enhancing measurement across all Local TV markets. As part of the company's Local TV strategy, Nielsen is increasing the size of its panels by directly incorporating Personal People Meter measurement and by bringing set-top box data that delivers daily, year-round granularity and stability to all 210 DMAs. With these enhancements, media companies and agencies will have more accurate data, increased ratings fidelity, and richer local, in-market consumer insights.

"In today's fragmented media environment, media buyers need access to dependable, actionable and accurate data that facilitates the advertising planning and buying process. Nielsen's wide range of solutions enables agencies like Zenith to effectively deliver on an advertiser's campaign objectives while helping them uncover new audiences and consumer segments," said Michael Sharp, Managing Director for Nielsen Local Agencies. "The enhancements that we are making to our Local TV service not only strengthen the measurement, but continue to bring the same level of confidence to the marketplace that the advertising industry has historically relied on to transact Local TV media buys across all markets. We are pleased to renew our agreement with Zenith and look forward to building on our ongoing relationship."

Zenith will leverage Nielsen's suite of Local TV services including Nielsen Local TV View (NLTV) and Nielsen Scarborough for their media planning and buying process. Leveraging multiple data resources, including Nielsen Local TV, Zenith will strive to maximize their clients' media budgets and continuously assess and seek out best in breed data providers.

"These improvements are the key to the future of Local TV measurement," said Frank Friedman, President of Local Media Investments at Publicis Media Exchange. "The addition of Nielsen electronic meters in the 140 markets currently measured by paper diaries will provide the complete market coverage that lacks from solely using return path data. We are encouraged by Nielsen's continued advances in Local TV measurement."

ABOUT NIELSEN

Nielsen Holdings plc (NYSE: NLSN) is a global performance management company that provides a comprehensive understanding of what consumers watch and buy. Nielsen's Watch segment provides media and advertising clients with Nielsen Total Audience measurement services for all devices on which contentvideo, audio and textis consumed. The Buy segment offers consumer packaged goods manufacturers and retailers the industry's only global view of retail performance measurement. By integrating information from its Watch and Buy segments and other data sources, Nielsen also provides its clients with analytics that help improve performance. Nielsen, an S&P 500 company, has operations in over 100 countries, covering more than 90% of the world's population. For more information, visit www.nielsen.com.

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Agartala, June 16 : Tripura's ruling CPI-M on Friday accused the BJP of "instigating" a tribal party to hold a rail and road blockade from July 10 to seek a separate state, a charge the BJP denied and said it too was opposed to the demand.

The Congress and the Trinamool Congress too expressed their opposition to the Indigenous People's Front of Tripura's (IPFT) demand for a new state, which it wants to be carved out of areas falling under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).

The tribal party plans to block National Highway-8 and the lone railway line to the north-eastern state for an indefinite period to put pressure on Tripura's Left Front government before the February 2018 assembly polls.

"The Bharatiya Janata Party is instigating the IPFT for rail and road blockade to create havoc to gain political mileage before the Tripura assembly elections," Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) State Secretary Bijan Dhar said.

Dhar said that before the March 2017 Manipur assembly elections also, the BJP had egged on the United Naga Council to block a vital National Highway in order to dislodge the then Congress government from that state.

"Within 48 hours of assumption of office by a BJP government in Manipur, the road blockade that stretched for several months was called off," he said.

Countering it, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit President Biplab Kumar Deb said: "The CPI-M's allegation is totally false and concocted. The BJP never supports the division of Tripura. The Left Front can take legal and administrative action against anyone trying to create trouble and disturb the peace."

He said the BJP wanted the Left Front government to call an all-party meeting to discuss the issue.

Congress Tripura unit President Birajit Sinha said his party too did not support the IPFT demand. "We do not support the blockade plan of IPFT. If they organise any democratic movement to protect tribals' interests, the Congress can support them," Sinha told IANS.

Trinamool Congress's Tripura unit President Ashish Saha said his party was also opposed to the separate state demand.

The TTAADC is an elected body formed in 1987 under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to safeguard the political, economic and cultural interests of the tribals.

The council covers two-thirds of Tripura's 10,491 square km area. As many as 1,216,465 (mostly tribals) of the state's 37 lakh people reside in these TTAADC areas.
New Delhi, June 18 : The ruling National Democratic Alliance's candidate for the July 17 presidential election will file his nomination papers before June 24, and the opposition parties would be informed of the name before the papers are filed.

BJP sources said the nomination will be filed before Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves on his three-nation foreign tour. Modi is slated to visit Portugal on June 24, before his trip to the US on June 26 and the Netherlands on June 27.

Information and Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday held discussions with Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party, on the July 17 presidential election.

Naidu also held discussions with Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav and Naresh Agrawal.

Paswan said his party will stand by the Prime Minister's decision while the Samajwadi Party is understood to have favoured a politician as the new President.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, part of the three-meber panel set up by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah to evolve a consensus among ruling and opposition parties on the presidential choice, has spoken to leaders of the Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal.

Informed sources said Naidu briefed Shah about his discussions.

Shah on Sunday met ally and Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aditya in Mumbai to ensure the Sena's crucial support in the presidential election.
Beijing, June 18 : India looks forward to more mutual dialogue with China, Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. V.K. Singh said on Sunday as he met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the eve of BRICS Foreign Minsters' meet.

India also wanted to deepen strategic ties with China, the visiting minister said.

Ties between the two countries have taken a hit over a host of issues which range from India's objection to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to China's continuous opposition to New Delhi's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

"India looks forward to strengthening and deepening its strategic partnership and mutual dialogue," Singh said at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

He called the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit at Astana as "fruitful and constructive".

"They laid down directions for us and for both the countries for mutual respect and mutual cooperation," he said.

On Friday, China said the Foreign Ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa would have a candid discussion on terrorism.

India might raise the issue of China blocking the ban on Pakistani militant Masood Azhar at the UN.

Azhar, head of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group, is wanted in India for the January 2016 terror attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot in Punjab.

China has also blocked India's bid to enter the NSG.

The factor of Pakistan, China's "all-weather ally", comes into play in both issues.

China argues that if India can be let in the NSG without being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, why not Pakistan.

On Azhar, China says evidence produced against the Pakistan-based terrorist is not enough.

At last year's BRICS summit in India, China was non-committal on including the names of terror groups like JeM and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in the BRICS' Goa Declaration.
New Delhi, June 18 : The BJP on Sunday stepped up its efforts to gather support for its unnamed Presidential nominee, with its top leaders talking to allies Shiv Sena and LJP as well as the Trinamool Congress and BJD, even as it disclosed that the NDA candidate will file the nomination before June 24 after the opposition is conveyed its choice.

Bharatiya Janata Party and allied MPs are being called to New Delhi by Tuesday to sign the nomination papers. Each nomination paper has to be signed by at 50 proposers and an equal number of seconders who can also be MLAs.

The National Democratic Alliance's attempt is to file at least three-four sets of nominations of its candidate so that all allies can get to sign.

BJP sources said the nomination will be filed before Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves on his three-nation foreign tour. Modi is slated to visit Portugal on June 24, before his trip to the US on June 26 and the Netherlands on June 27.

By then, the opposition parties will be told about the NDA candidate. The last date for filing of nominations is June 28. The Prime Minister is set to return home a day before that.

BJP President Amit Shah on Sunday met its sulking ally and Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aditya in Mumbai to ensure the Sena's crucial support in the July 17 Presidential election.

But the BJP's oldest ally has been pitching for the candidature of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat as the "first choice" and eminent agro-scientist M.S. Swaminathan as a second preference. Both Bhagwat and BJP have already ruled out the possibility of fielding him.

It was not clear what was Sena's response to Shah's plea. In the last two Presidential elections, the Shiv Sena did not support the NDA candidate.

Information and Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday held discussions with Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party. Naidu also met Samajwadi Party's Ram Gopal Yadav and Naresh Agrawal.

Informed sources said Naidu briefed Shah about his discussions.

Paswan said his party will stand by the Prime Minister's decision while the Samajwadi Party is understood to have favoured a politician as the new President.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, part of a three-member panel set up by Shah to evolve a consensus among ruling and opposition parties on the Presidency, has spoken to leaders of the Trinamool Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

The BJP, which has an edge in the electoral college, is seeking to muster maximum support for its nominee to ensure a comfortable victory.

This is why it has reached out to parties like the BJD, which is opposed to the Congress. But the Trinamool is part of the opposition on the Presidential election.

On the opposition side, there are hints that the non-BJP parties may announce their candidate by Wednesday if the BJP does not come out with its nominee.

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury reportedly suggested on Saturday that the opposition should announce its candidate by June 21. He had described the government consultations as a "PR exercise".

The Left parties are pitching for a contest because they feel the Presidential election was in a way an ideological battle and the Rashtrapati Bhavan's occupant should be a person with impeccable secular credentials and one who can uphold the Constitution.

They are said to be considering the name of Gopalakrishna Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's grandson and a former West Bengal Governor. The name of JD-U leader Sharad Yadav has also cropped up as a Presidential contender on grounds that he is a veteran political personality.
New Delhi, June 18 : Communist Party of India (CPI) General Secretary S. Sudhakar Reddy on Sunday said the Left parties will not contest the election if the BJP's presidential nominee is a "consensus candidate and has secular credentials".

Reddy also said that they told the BJP team -- comprising Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Urban Development Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu which met them last week -- not to field a candidate who has links with the RSS and doesn't have secular credentials.

Reddy said CPI also enquired if RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat was the BJP's candidate. "We just enquired whether Bhagwat is going to be their candidate. They said Bhagwat will not contest," Reddy told IANS.

"We will support a consensus candidate on behalf of the opposition. We are ready to support a candidate with secular credentials," he said.

Asked whether the Left parties would contest the presidential election even if there is a "consensus candidate", Reddy said: "No, we won't contest in case of a consensus candidate. We don't have enough numbers and we don't have the intention of contesting."

"Generally, on behalf of the party, we never contested. Earlier, too, we only contested with other Left and opposition parties," he added.

Asked what did the BJP team convey to his party, Reddy said: "BJP didn't come with any names. They asked our opinion. We told them not to put anybody from the hardcore ranks like the RSS. We told them we'll support a secular candidate."

Asked if any assurance was given on that, he said: "No assurance was given. Why will they give assurance? We told our opinion but they did not respond."

In 2002, when A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had emerged as the consensus candidate for President, the Left parties had put up former Azad Hind Fauj member Laxmi Sehgal as their candidate resulting in a contest.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party leader Ramgopal Yadav told IANS: "Rajnath Singh and Jaitley-ji (Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley) met us yesterday (Saturday). They have not disclosed any name for the presidental nominee."

Asked if SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav gave an assurance to the BJP about supporting NDA's candidate, he said: "We will support a consensus candidate, otherwise we'll oppose the NDA."

The BJP on Sunday stepped up its efforts to gather support for its yet unnamed presidential nominee, with its top leaders talking to allies Shiv Sena and LJP as well as the Trinamool Congress and BJD, even as it disclosed that the NDA candidate will file the nomination before June 24 after the opposition is conveyed its choice.
Beijing, June 19 : India on Monday said Brics needs to cooperate on counter-terrorism as the Foreign Ministers meet of the five-member bloc began here.

China has said the issue of terrorism would be discussed candidly at the meet of the five major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, as New Delhi seemed poised to raise the issue of branding Pakistani militant Masood Azhar as an international terrorist.

India's Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh, who is attending the meeting, said the National Security Advisers of all the member countries will meet in July.

"The Brics Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism concluded its meeting in May 2017," Singh said.

"In the Delhi meeting last year, they (National Security Advisers) reached a significant understanding to enhance Brics cooperation in security and counter-terrorism matter," he added.

"Our permanent representatives in New York and Geneva coordinate regularly on issues of mutual and common interests."

Azhar, head of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group, is wanted for a January 2016 terror attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot, Punjab.

China has rejected India's resolution at the UN to designate Azhar as an international terrorist.

(Gaurav Sharma is the Beijing-based correspondent of IANS. He can be contacted at sharmagaurav71@gmail.com and gauravians@yahoo.com)
Hyderabad, June 19 : In the inaugural edition of Sankarabharanam Awards, actors Aamir Khan, Junior NTR and Dhanush have won top laurels, the organisers announced on Monday.

The award ceremony will take place here on Tuesday.

Sankarabharanam Awards, formed in honour of filmmaker K. Vishwanath by actress Tulasi, will honour winners from five film industries which include artists from Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi.

Explaining why the need to honour artists from five industries, Tulasi told IANS: "My guru and mentor Dadasaheb Phalke awardee, K Viswanath has worked with both the northern and southern industries in his illustrious career. He stands for the unity of our cinema, a beautiful aesthetic medium that knows no boundaries of geography or language."

She added that though they will be awarding a much longer list of technicians and artists from Telugu cinema, "We have four categories across industries this year. This is because we had less time to organise the event this year. From next year, we will plan much in advance with a more uniform list."

Tulasi also confirmed Aamir Khan and Alia Bhatt have won Best Actor award for their respective performances in "Dangal" and "Udta Punjab".

Junior NTR has bagged Best Actor (male) for his performance in "Janatha Garage".

Dhanush won the Best Director award for his Tamil directorial debut "Pa Pandi".
Chennai, June 19 : Actor Ram Charan is braving tough conditions and shooting longer hours for upcoming Telugu rural-based romantic-drama "Rangasthalam", a source said.

"It has been the toughest schedule to shoot actually! The call times are all before sunrise and we are wrapping up only post sunset. So it's long days," a source from the film's unit told IANS.

Being directed by Sukumar, the film also stars Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

The other day we were shooting a key sequence in the bushes and though Charan was bruised, he was the least complaining person. Instead, he called the ongoing schedule as the most satisfactory one," the source said.

The film's shoot is currently underway in remote areas of Godavari district.

The shoot will go on till the month end. Then, it will shift soon to grand sets that are being erected in Hyderabad. Art director Rama Krishna is currently taking care of the set works in the city," he said.

The film, which has music by Devi Sri Prasad, also stars Aadi Pinisetty and Jagapathi Babu.
New Delhi : Title: Shattered - Inside Hillary Clinton's Doomed Campaign; Author: Jonathan Allan & Amie Parnes; Publisher: Crown/Penguin Random House US; Pages: 482; Price: Rs 799 It was an election she had been preparing long for and was favoured to win to become the first woman heading the world's most powerful democracy. But as American voters confounded experienced but "establishment" candidate Hillary Clinton - and experts - to plump for an erratic, untested, and loose-tongued businessman Donald Trump as their President, they have given birth to an entire industry searching for the reasons.

While Russian "interference" through calibrated leaks of Democrat's internal documents, FBI chief James Comey's raising of her private e-mail server issue twice, rival Bernie Sanders' prolonged and "toxic" campaign in the nomination fight, and Donald Trump's channelling of angry white working class votes are usually cited, what responsibility does Hillary Clinton herself have?

It is this aspect that political journalists Jonathan Allan and Amie Parnes seek to investigate in this book, and in their thrilling, behind-the-scenes and incisive retelling of her second and final Presidential bid, they find the candidate - whose polarising nature is well-acknowledged - herself and her campaign had a crucial role too.

Focussing on her major decisions, foregone opportunities, unlearnt lessons, miscalculations, and pitfalls "that turned a winnable contest into a devastating loss" as well as how "Hillary herself made victory an uphill battle", the authors are, however, no Hillary-baiters, but rather on her side - to a point.

Allan and Parnes, whose previous book "HRC: State Secrets and the Rebirth of Hillary Clinton" (2015) chronicled her resurrection after losing the Democratic nomination to Barack Obama in 2008, admit they expected they would be "writing the inside story of Hillary shattering what she had called the 'highest, hardest glass ceiling'".

"We were surprised, then, when Clintonworld sources started telling us in 2015 that Hillary was still struggling to articulate her motivation for seeking the presidency. And we were taken aback by how much infighting was going on below the surface of her campaign..."

In their account, which spans Hillary's decision to commit herself to her second bid in early 2015 to that watershed night in November 2016, gives you a ringside view of genesis of her bid, its organisation, its high and lows, its successes and failures and finally the tragic denouement.

Based on extensive access to key players, enabled by their decision to conduct interviews on background to enable full anonymity to their sources, Allen and Parnes' story is also a cautionary tale for all politicians - though it can be argued that a lot of flaws can only be discerned in hindsight.

While they hold that the external factors did play a role, they also fault Hillary and her campaign managers for not assessing problems properly or taking timely remedial attention. There were people who did warn things were not going there way but weren't heeded, including Hillary's husband and former President Bill Clinton, who may be seen in various lights, but cannot be faulted in his reading of the public pulse.

On the usual reasons, Allen and Parnes hold that on the private email server issue, Hillary never told the full story or sought to put it behind her at a time it could have been controlled. And while Comey's role is downright inappropriate, the issue was something that she brought on herself - the purported reason disclosed here is not very palatable too.

And while Sanders' overlong and bruising campaign did play a role as his many of his supporters never swung behind her and his eventual support was rather tepid, Clinton and her team failed to gauge the outlook and importance of his constituency - and Trump plumbed to fashion his victory.

There are more issues, such as the differing approaches of her campaign team, which never mounted a concerted effort, some key personnel's reliance on their own technological techniques over public interface, her voter targeting but above all, her own image which was so engrained in the public psyche that it could not be refashioned.

But Allan and Parnes do acknowledge that Hillary Clinton did accomplish something despite the odds stacked against her, and her case tells as much as about the American voter as it does about her. How will their decision impact them remains to be seen, though the early signs are not very positive.

(Vikas Datta can be contacted at vikas.d@ians.in)
Chennai, June 19 : Actress Pooja Hegde, who is rumoured to have been signed on for Mahesh Babu's next yet-untitled Telugu film, says she cannot comment about the project at the moment.

Asked if the rumours are true, Pooja told IANS: "I can't comment on it at the moment."

The project, which happens to be Mahesh Babu's 25th film, will be directed by Vamsi Paidipally.

On the career front, Pooja awaits the release of Allu Arjun-starrer "Duvvada Jagannadham" aka "DJ".

She has teamed up with Arjun for the first time in this Harish Shankar directorial.

Last seen in Telugu film "Mukunda", Pooja returns to Telugu filmdom after three years with "DJ".
London, June 19 : British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said on Monday that he thought negotiations on his country's exit from the European Union (EU) would be beneficial for both sides.

Johnson made his comments upon his arrival at an EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg on the day that Brexit negotiations will begin in Brussels, reports Efe news.

"I think the whole process will lead to a happy resolution which can be done with honour and profit to both sides," Johnson said.

"The most important thing I think now is for us to look to the horizon, think about the future, and think about the new partnership, the deep and special partnership that we want to build with our friends."

The European Commissioner's chief negotiator for Brexit, Michel Barnier, and the UK's Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, David Davis, were set to hold talks in which both parties were expected to set out their respective positions.

The meeting would take place at the European Commission in Brussels after which point the pair are to give a press briefing.

The occasion marks the start of Brexit negotiations after Prime Minister Theresa May activated Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty -- the mechanism that officially notifies the EU that a country wishes to leave the 27-member bloc -- on March 29 and set a two-year negotiations period in motion.

The bloc would first seek to reach an agreement on EU citizens rights, the UK's departure bill, and the future border between the Republic of Ireland, an EU member, and Northern Ireland, a British region.
Mumbai, June 19 : The Shiv Sena on Monday remained non-committal on whether or not it will support the BJPs nominee for the Presidential election, Ram Nath Kovind.

Sena MP Sanjay Raut told the media that BJP President Amit Shah called up Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray after announcing the candidature of the Bihar Governor for the July 17 election.

"Shah informed him (Thackeray) about the BJP choice and sought the Shiv Sena's support to Kovind's candidature," Raut said.

Thackeray maintained his earlier stance and said he would call a meeting of the Shiv Sena to discuss the issue before taking a final decision.

Thackeray told Shah on Sunday that the Sena would take a decision only after the BJP's nominee for the Presidential election was named.

Raut reiterated that the Shiv Sena was keen on the candidature of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat or eminent agro-scientist M.S. Swaminathan for the President's post.
New Delhi, June 19 : The NDA's Presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind on Monday expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the July 17 election.

"I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings," Kovind told the media on his arrival from Patna.

Asked whether Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar Governor said the Janata Dal-United leader had made a courtesy call.

"As I am the Governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination."

Asked if the opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said: "I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India."

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on "an ordinary citizen".

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, J.P. Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination: "It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty."

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had "rich culture, rich traditions and lot of heritage".
Chennai, June 19 : Hindu Makkal Katchi President Arjun Sampath on Monday said he has urged superstar Rajinikanth to join politics and was told he was "in preparation" for it.

After an hour-long interaction with the 67-year-old actor at his residence here, Sampath told reporters: "Rajinikath sir should free Tamil Nadu from the clutches of Dravidian rule for over five decades."

He said that the "Kabali" star is well aware that the "system is corrupt".

"We urged him to be the flag bearer of alternative politics. When we insisted him to join politics, he said he is in preparation for the same. He said he would feel guilty if he doesn't do anything for the people of Tamil Nadu," said Sampath.

Rajinikanth further added that only if he joins politics, can he realise his dream of interlinking Himalayan and peninsular rivers into one national grid.

Sampath also said Rajinikanth spoke about spiritualism.
Moscow, June 19 : The ASE Group, a subsidiary of Russia's ROSATOM State Atomic Energy Corporation, on Monday announced that the foundation of the unit three of the Kundankulam Nuclear Power Project (KNPP), will be laid by the end of June or beginning of July.

"Since the foundation of unit 3 will be laid at the end of June or beginning of July, we believe it will take us approximately one year between the foundation and start of construction of each following units," ASE Group president V.I. Limarenko told a select group of media persons here.

KNPP, a joint project between India and Russia in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district, is being built by ASE Group alongside the Nuclear Power Corporation of India.

The ground-breaking ceremony for construction of units three and four was performed on February 17 last year.

On June 1, India and Russia signed an agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit for construction of units 5 and 6 of the project.

Limarenko said the company plans to sign the contract for the design work and supply of equipment for units five and six in the next few months.

"Units five and six are similar to previous units. A greatly experienced team will work. Taking into account that the agreement has been signed recently, we are planning to sign the contract in the upcoming months.

"These are contracts related to design work and supply of equipment," Limarenko said on the sidelines of AtomExpo 2017 organised by Rosatom.

He hoped that units three, four, five and six will be constructed smoothly one by one.

"More than that, we expect a proposal from the Indian side for another site where we can construct six more power units. And so we believe that in all, 12 units will be constructed," he said.

Construction of KNPP started in 2002. In 2013, Unit 1 was synchronised with the southern power grid and is now generating 1000 megawatt. Of electricity.

The second 1,000 MW unit has started its one-year period of warranty operation on March 31, which is the first step towards the commercial operation of the unit, ASE Group and NPCIL signed a joint statement on Final Takeover of Unit 1 of the KNPP on April 5.

Units three, four, five and six also will have 1,000 MW capacity each.

Limarenko said up-to-date technology was being used for complete safety of the Rooppur nuclear power plant of Bangladesh, with the certification of specialists from three European nations including those from Russia and France.

(Sirshendu Panth is attending the conference at the invitation of Rosatom. He can be contacted at s.panth@ians.in)
Beijing, June 19 : Without naming Pakistan or any other nation, Foreign Ministers of BRICS countries on Monday asked the countries accused of supporting terrorism to stop financing terrorists and their activities after India told the five-country bloc to stop differentiating between good and bad terrorists and step up the fight against the "global menace".

In a joint statement released at the end of a BRICS conference here, the Foreign Ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, deplored "the continued terrorist attacks, including in some BRICS countries" and condemned "terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever".

The ministers reaffirmed the solidarity and resolve of the BRICS nations in the fight against terrorism and called upon the international community to establish a broad international counter-terrorism coalition and to support the UN's coordinating role in international counter-terrorism cooperation.

"They recall the responsibility of all states to prevent financing of terrorist networks and terrorist actions from their territories," the note said.

Earlier, India, represented by Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh, said the grouping needed to cooperate on counter-terror measures.

Singh said "terrorism remains the most potent global menace and threatens global peace" and that "terrorists cannot be differentiated by calling them good or bad".

"They are terrorists, they are criminals and we need to have concerted actions both in the region and internationally to curb their activities."

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said his country was making every effort to combat terrorism. "China opposes terror in all forms. China is also victim of terror and China is taking part in global initiatives against terror. With colleagues today, including Indian colleagues, China shares the same position."

India has been urging the UN to put sanctions against and designate as an international terrorist Pakistan-based terrorist leader Masood Azhar, accused of masterminding several terror attacks in India, including the January 2016 strike on a military base in Punjab that killed at least seven security personnel. But the Indian move has been blocked by China -- Pakistan's all-weather friend -- that holds a veto in the UN Security Council.

The Foreign Ministers also reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN and the Security Council to make it "more representative, effective and efficient and increase the representation of the developing countries so that it can adequately respond to global challenges".

"China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN."

The joint statement also backed the Paris climate accord in a reaffirmation that comes after US President Donald Trump pulled out of the agreement, accusing India and China of trying to extract "billions and billions and billions" of dollars in foreign aid from developed countries in the name of climate change.

The BRICS Foreign Ministers also extended their support for more balanced economic globalisation, rejected protectionism, and renewed their commitment to the promotion of global trade and investment "which is conducive to an equitable, inclusive, innovative, invigorated and interconnected world economy".

They also backed "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned" national reconciliation programme and the ongoing international efforts for peace and reconstruction of the war-torn country.

The BRICS Summit will be held in September in China's Xiamen where Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President XI Jinping are likely to meet.

(Gaurav Sharma is the Beijing-based correspondent of IANS. He can be contacted at sharmagaurav71@gmail.com and gauravians@yahoo.com)
Srinagar, June 19 : A youth was injured on Monday in security force firing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, said police sources.

A youth identified as Altaf Ahmad Zargar of Dugbam village in Pulwama was injured when a vehicle of security forces passing through the village was attacked by stone pelters and opened fire in order to secure their way, said a source.

The youth has been shifted to hospital for treatment.
New Delhi, June 19 : Delhi Social Welfare Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam on Monday met the 80-year-old Urdu poet Asrar Jamayee, whose pension was stopped by the department in 2013, and asked the officials to restart it.

Gautam also directed the officials to probe why Jamayee's pension was stopped about four years ago.

"The minister along with the officials of the Social Welfare Department met the poet Asrar Jamayee at his residence in Batla House and listened to his problems. He directed the officials to restart his pension and probe the matter," a Delhi government official told IANS.

The octogenarian poet has earlier said that his pension from the Social Welfare Department was stopped in 2013 and when he tried to find out why, officials had told him that the department records showed that he had died.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday in a tweet has asked Gautam to meet the aggrieved poet and do whatever was necessary within 48 hours.
Vijayawada, June 19 : YSR Congress Party on Monday announced its support to NDA's candidate Ram Nath Kovind for the post of President.

Andhra Pradesh's main opposition party made the announcement after BJP president Amit Shah spoke to its leader Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy over phone.

Soon after BJP announced the candidature of Kovind, Shah contacted Jagan and sought his party's support.

YSRCP chief declared his party's support to the NDA candidate.

"I and my party, wholeheartedly support the candidature of Sri Ram Nath Kovind Ji, Dalit leader and a fine Statesman, as Presidential nominee," Jagan tweeted.

After a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month, Jagan had stated that YSRCP would back the NDA candidate.
Mosul, June 19 : Kurdish journalist Bakhtiyar Haddad died and three French colleagues were injured when a bomb exploded in Mosul's Old City during an offensive by Iraqi forces to retake last district of the city held by the Islamic State jihadist group, local media reported on Monday.

Haddad, who working with the French team as a fixer and interpreter, was killed in the blast, one of his friends told Rudaw, the Kurdish broadcaster said on its website.

The French journalists, work for France 2 TV, the Kurdistan24.net newsite reported. Two were in a critical condition after the blast and were receiving treatment at a US base in the town of Qayyara in Nineveh Province, Kudistan 24.net said.

Haddad was the third journalist killed in a conflict zone in Iraq this year, Rudaw reported.

About 230 civilians have been killed in western Mosul in the past two weeks, the United Nations says, some in air strikes and rocket attacks, and others shot dead by IS snipers as they tried to flee.

Iraqi forces retook the eastern part of Mosul in January and began their offensive to re-take the densely populated Old City on Sunday amid fierce resistance from IS militants.
New Delhi, June 19 : The Delhi Police has been placed on high alert, and has asked its counterparts across India to tighten security after receiving an intelligence tip-off warning of a terror attack on crowded public spaces, a senior police officer said on Monday.

"The Delhi Police Special cell has issued an advisory to all security agencies across the country to beef up the security measures at interstate bus terminals, railway stations, five star hotels, malls and markets, religious places, embassies of western countries, metro stations, airports, stadiums, and tourist places or other sites visited by foreign nationals," the officer told IANS.

The security agencies have also been directed to keep a tab on suspicious articles if found in vehicles and to conduct proper checking on interstate borders.

"According to the specific intelligence inputs on June 10 about militants are planning a series of terror attacks at various places in India. While further details are yet to emerge, initial indications point towards possibility of crowded public places, market and locations frequented by foreign nationals being among the possible targets," said the Delhi Police advisory.

It also said at this point of time, any additional details such as on likely timing, locations, identities of the terrorists or tactics of planned attacks, are not available.
New Delhi, June 20 : A 27-year old man with a skeletal tumour for years was treated with radiofrequency ablation to successfully remove the growth at a hospital here, doctors said on Monday.

According to the medical team, the short term follow-up reports of patient Rahul Jain revealed his excellent recovery due to which he was leading a pain-free life without the use of analgesics.

According to the hospital authorities, Jain initially often complained of on and off pain around his left hip for the past one year which usually worsened during the night.

While the symptom showed symptomatic improvement with analgesics, an MRI investigations revealed he had osteoid osteoma, or a benign (non-cancerous) but extremely painful skeletal tumour that tend to be smaller than 1.5cm in size and these does not spread to other regions of the body.

These tumours, though rare, usually occur in the young adults and males are affected three times more commonly than females. Also, they occur most commonly in the upper part of the thigh bone and the shafts of other long bones.

Doctors at the BLK hospital, where Jain was admitted, said that usually surgery is the definitive solution for such conditions but it has some drawbacks, including difficulty in lesion localisation, the need for extensive dissection as well a prolonged hospital stay due to additional recovery time and weakening of the bone.

"Therefore, after analysing the condition, the medical team zeroed on to use radiofrequency ablation, using the heat generated from medium frequency alternating current (in the range of 350-500 kHz) to melt the growth, to treat Jain," said Ishwar Bohra, senior consultant Joint Replacement and Arthoscopy surgeon at the hospital.

Bohra, who successfully removed the tumour, described the entire procedure as more recovery friendly than open surgeries because of the size and risk.

The common symptoms of an osteoid ssteoma are dull pain that gets severe at night, affecting sleep quality, limping, muscle atrophy, swelling, increased or decreased bone growth, etc.
Palermo (Italy), June 20 : An Italian coastguard ship docked in the Sicilian capital Palermo on Monday with 1,096 people on board including 11 pregnant women, as the surge in migrant crossings continues.

Among the migrants rescued in the Strait of Sicily were 751 men, 160 women - including one with severe burns - and 185 minors, coastguard and port officials said.

The burns victim was immediately taken to hospital in Palermo, while police officers, local health authority officials and charity workers waited to assist the other migrants as they disembarked.

Boat arrivals to Italy from North Africa rose 17 percent in 2017 from last year, with a surge in migrants from Bangladesh and Nigeria and increased numbers from Guinea Cote d'Ivoire, Senegal, Morocco and Mali, according to figures issued on Friday.

A total of 65,450 boat migrants reached Italy this year as of June 14 - 85 percent of arrivals across the Mediterranean, said the UN migration agency, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

A total of 1,737 people perished on the treacherous sea route from Libya to Italy or 95 percent of this year's deaths in the Mediterranean, the IOM figures showed.
Jerusalem, June 20 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned Iran not to threaten Israel after Tehran said it launched missiles at Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria.

"One message to Iran: Don't threaten Israel," Netanyahu said on Monday during a weekly meeting of his Likud faction.

Netanyahu, who has repeatedly claimed that Iran is threatening Israel, said Israel is following "their actions and we follow their words", Xinhua news agency reported.

"The military and our security forces are constantly monitoring the activity of Iran in the region," Netanyahu said, according to a statement released by the Likud.

"This activity also includes their attempts to establish themselves in Syria and, of course, to transfer advanced weapons to Hezbollah and other operations," he said.

Netanyahu has been a vocal opponent of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, charging that Tehran is aiming to achieve nuclear weapons.

Earlier on Monday, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced that the Sunday attack on the "terrorists" in Syria's eastern region of Deir ez-Zor had been coordinated with the Syrian government.

Gen. Ramezan Sharif, head of the IRGC Public Relations Department, told Tasnim news agency that the IRGC fired six mid-range ballistic missiles at multiple targets, within a range of 650 to 700 km.

He confirmed that the missiles hit the targets, which included the headquarters, ammunition and logistic depots of IS operatives, saying "a large number of terrorists" were killed.

The attack came in the wake of a twin attack carried out by IS on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the capital Tehran on June 7, killing 17 and injuring dozens others.
I am proud to be partnered with such a leader and innovator in the payments space.

USAePay, a leading payment gateway service provider, proudly announces a strategic partnership with Actum Processing, The Right Choice in ACH Processing. Actum provides Merchants top-tier ACH payment solutions that satisfy the ongoing needs of their business, while offering Resellers and Software Providers the opportunity to expand their client base and retain loyal relationships with satisfied customers. Partnering with USAePay will allow Actum Processing to appeal to a greater number of subscribers.

Ive had the vision of seeing our partnership with USAePay come to life for quite some time; always knowing that when it happened, it was going to be great. I am proud to be partnered with such a leader and innovator in the payments space. The entire organization has been a pleasure to work with and all at Actum are grateful to be partnered with such a wonderful group of individuals, says Vinny Lipari, President at Actum Processing. Their company culture and vision runs parallel to that of Actum and we look forward to making a positive impact on their partners experience with ACH processing.

Actum Processings partnership with USAePay will provide invaluable benefits to both Resellers and Merchants. Their solutions are compatible with a variety of industry types across a broad range of risk profiles. Actum works closely with their partners to identify methods that optimize performance and minimize risk, resulting in higher customer satisfaction and increased earnings.

"We are pleased to be working with Actum Processing on this project, says Martin Drake, President of USAePay. Actum provides Banks, ISOs and MSPs with a program that is tailored towards a variety of Merchants and ACH applications that are very unique to the industry. We feel the addition of this program to our ACH offerings will provide our Partner Resellers and their Merchants more options that were traditionally not available in the past.

USAePay consistently works hard to find new and innovative solutions to improve the experience of Merchants. Actums integration with USAePay grants immediate access to a network of solutions that fit nearly everyones needs. For more information on how to integrate with USAePay, please visit http://help.usaepay.com/developer/ guide or contact our Channel Sales Department at 866.490.0042 or by email, resellers(at)USAePay.com.

***

About USAePay

USAePay is a family-owned business based in Los Angeles, CA. For over 15 years, the company has been assisting Merchants with payment solutions to fit their needs. USAePays payment gateway supports most of the major platforms in the credit card industry and works with some of the leading check platforms. USAePay is pleased to work with most of the larger Merchant service banks in the US and Canada. For more information, please visit http://www.usaepay.com or call 866.USA.EPAY (872 3729).

About Actum Processing

Actum Processing, "The Right Choice in ACH Processing. The company has spent years establishing that reputation, and backs it up with industry leading ACH payment solutions and service. The culture is made up of passionate people who ensure their partners always come first and take a true consultants approach to understanding the unique needs of their business. Actum Processing has a team of experts in the field of ACH and provides all the tools necessary to process ACH transactions in a secure and efficient manner. Whether you are a Reseller or a Merchant, Actum Processings team will identify your needs and support your organization. Contact the Business Development office today to speak with an expert ACH consultant. For more information, please visit http://www.actumprocessing.com or call (512) 402-0082.
The paper suggests that there are significant advantages of organisations working together at scale.

The paper, "NHS Group Models: Working together for a more sustainable NHS", has been produced by Credo Business Consulting and draws on its experience of working with three of the four Trusts accredited to pursue Group models; the Royal Free London NHS FT, Salford Royal NHS FT and Guys & St. Thomas NHS FT.

It says that the current system, where providers are often compelled to compete for resources, talent and patients, has created wide-scale variation between organisations, misaligned incentives and duplication, which act to further exacerbate the health inequalities seen across England.

The paper suggests that there are significant advantages of organisations working together at scale. For example, by working as a Group providers can:



Provide a platform for identifying and addressing unwarranted clinical variation. Scale enables this by providing the necessary expertise, evidence base, and analytics, which smaller organisations would struggle to replicate;

Leverage highly capable leaders with proven track records across an enlarged base, while nurturing and developing up and coming leaders through better support mechanisms and improved career paths;

Align incentives and remove organisational barriers, thereby enabling leaders to make better decisions at pace that benefit both patients and reduce total system cost;

Enable significant improvements in quality and cost through economies of scale, joint procurement, and investment in standardised systems and processes;

Support the pooling and sharing of resources (both people and capital) across multiple organisations, resulting in better expertise, higher utilisation, and greater ability to invest; and

Enable the workforce to be deployed more flexibly across a wider footprint, resulting in better use of resources, improved responsiveness and an enhanced staff experience.

The report also highlights that there is a spectrum of organisational models for providers to consider, and stresses the need for organisations to design a model that addresses their individual opportunities and challenges and works within their local environment.

Martin Smith, Assessment Director at NHS Improvement has welcomed the report, saying that

This report highlights both the opportunities and the challenges facing providers who are testing and trialing new models of care, such as groups or chains. It also highlights the potential benefits of greater provider collaboration, in terms of improving quality of patient care, reducing unhelpful variation and making better use of resources. We are working hard with all providers to support new and innovative models of care, including our work with NHS England to support STPs. These findings will help providers to make sure plans are robust and deliver the best outcomes for patients.

Edward Matthews, Partner at Credo Business Consulting said,

Without major breakthroughs in how to deliver more for less, it is difficult to envisage how the current system will cope with the demographic, workforce and funding challenges it is likely to face in the coming years. We believe that the new models of care being developed by the numerous Vanguard sites across the country are critical to achieving this. We hope that providers who are considering new forms of collaboration find this paper a useful and practical source of information.

The full report can be downloaded here (PDF, 3.8mb, active from 13/06/2017).

The report was published on 13th June 2017 in conjunction with Kaleidoscope Health & Cares Collaboration: Know how? event series.

Lucy Thorp, Senior Manager at Credo Business Consulting, can be seen discussing the findings of the paper at the Collaboration: Know how? webinar hosted on 7th June 2017.

Notes to editors:
The X Suit is the suit for the stylish man on the go, and its the only suit he will ever need -- and our stretch fabric and lining makes the suit fit like its tailor-made.

The X SUIT, made for young professionals, the corporate manager and all men in between who want to look sharp and modern while they dress in comfort, has surpassed its $50,000 crowdfunding goal in just hours on Kickstarter.

According to X SUIT's designer Max Perez, X SUITS accommodate a high level of activity and movement for the young modern business professional, and can be worn for days without showing signs of wear or odor.

The X Shell Fabric is equipped with four-way stretch capabilities and an elasticized lining, allowing the wearer to experience a full range of motion which is unattainable in a traditional suit. The added Tensile Thread allows the seams to move with the garment, adding durability.

Perez says the suits durability over several days also makes it the ultimate in travel accessories.

The X SUITS X Shield has both liquid- and stain-repellency and can adapt to any weather situation or unfortunate spill. The technology repels liquids and stains alike, keeping the X SUIT looking sharp and clean. Simply pouring water over any stain will cause it to roll off the fabric (see video).

The X Shield  further equips the X SUIT with Wrinkle Defense technology making it the perfect travel suit. The X SUIT can be packed in any suitcase and come out without wrinkles.

X SUITS inner lining has been specially paneled with X Membrane to Neutralize Odors and keep it smelling fresh all day and night. Each fiber in the lining attracts, isolates, and neutralizes odors immediately, and with quick dry capabilities, keeps sweat stains to a minimal.

The X SUIT is offered in 14 custom sizes and will sell at the fraction of the cost of a similar product. Kickstarter backers will receive their suits approximately three months after funding.

X SUIT Features include:



12 discrete pockets for specific functionality

Wrinkle-free and easily packable  perfect for corporate travel

Phone compartment holds any size phone

Modern yet classic design

Four-way stretch fabric with shape retention

Elasticized, flexible waistband construction

Odor Neutralizing and Quick Dry Lining

Liquid and Stain Repellent

Metal anodized buttons and zippers

Minimized maintenance and dry-cleaning

Perez says X SUIT is an ideal choice for the young professional who wants to look sharp and modern, and for the corporate manager who is looking for comfort in his work apparel.

This is the suit for the stylish man on the go, and its the only suit he will ever need, Perez added. Our stretch fabric and lining makes the suit fit like its tailor-made. We reduce fabric in areas such as the arms and waist to give the suit a true fitted appearance without feeling stiff or binding.

For more information and to take advantage of early-bird crowdfunding discounts, visit X SUITS Kickstarter Campaign.

About X SUIT

X SUIT was created by XYZ Group, which is based in Shanghai and run by Canadian brothers Max, Reouven and Nathaniel Perez. The Perez brothers are veteran apparel manufacturers with more than 30 years combined garment manufacturing experience. Their partner manufacturers have contributed to some of the worlds most prestigious brands, including suits in the Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein and Zara lines. The team is highly skilled with technology applications and tailoring. XYZ Group and their manufacturing partners have spent more than two years creating and testing dozens of prototypes to arrive at the X SUIT design. They intend to continue to create smart, stylish and comfortable fashion for people on the go. Visit http://www.XSuit.com.
The Johnson & Wales University (JWU) ADTEAM was announced as the first place winner of the 2017 National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC) held by the American Advertising Federation (AAF) in New Orleans, Louisiana. This marks the best finish in JWU ADTEAM history, surpassing the teams second place finish in the national round in 2015.

JWUs thirty-one-member team, made up of students in the universitys advertising and marketing communications, marketing, graphic design and media communication studies programs, placed first in the United States over seven other finalists: The University of Kentucky, Florida State University, Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, Webster University, Grand Valley State University and South Dakota State University. All teams gave presentations before a judging panel that included executives from Tai Pei, this years NSAC corporate client.

This years ADTEAM dove head first into their research and developed a product and consumer centric advertising campaign that impressed Tai Pei executives and judges from across the country, said Oscar Chilabato, associate professor, JWU College of Business, who accepted the $3,500 grand prize as the advisor to the ADTEAM. The NSAC gives our students practical, real-world experience as they learn how to use qualitative and quantitative research methods needed to create and implement effective advertising campaigns. Our strengths this year  our research and insights  were tightly tied to our creative recommendations, and we have been rewarded for them. I am proud of this group for all that they have accomplished.

The trip to the national round of this years NSAC marked the sixth time in seven years JWUs ADTEAM competed in final round of the competition. To qualify for nationals, the ADTEAM competed in a district round, beating out schools such as Boston University, Endicott, Emerson and others. The team then moved on to the eighteen team semifinal round, where they advanced in favor of institutions including Syracuse, Louisiana State University, Purdue and others.

The National Student Advertising Competition is AAFs premier annual college advertising competition which provides more than 2,000 college students the real-world experience of creating a strategic advertising, marketing and media campaign for a corporate client. All college teams that competed created an advertising campaign for this years corporate client, Tai Pei, which offers over 10 varieties of single-serve, takeout-style entrees, an assortment of Asian appetizers and a full line of family-sized products. The campaigns included each element of advertising: television, radio, social media, and print.

About Johnson & Wales University:

Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 15,000 graduate, undergraduate and online students at its four campuses in Providence, R.I.; North Miami, Fla.; Denver, Colo.; and Charlotte, N.C. An innovative educational leader, the university offers degree programs in arts and sciences, business, culinary arts, design and engineering, education, health and wellness, hospitality, nutrition and physician assistant studies. Its unique model integrates arts and sciences and industry-focused education with work experience and leadership opportunities, inspiring students to achieve professional success and lifelong personal and intellectual growth. The universitys impact is global, with alumni from 123 countries pursuing careers worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.jwu.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Ryan Crowley, communications & media relations specialist, 401-598-2752, ryan.crowley(at)jwu(dot)edu
Digital Marketing Agency Office "Our Marietta Square office has been wonderful however; our new Kennesaw location places us among larger clients that fit our key target demographic.' James Hobson - President

E-Platform Marketing, one of Atlanta's oldest digital marketing agencies, has announced the relocation of its corporate office to Kennesaw, Georgia. The new location supports the company's strategic development plan for acquisition of local top tier clients.

The new office space is on the second floor of Duvall Place, an office complex near historic downtown Kennesaw, Georgia. Duvall Place is in close proximity to rapidly growing industrial developments and corporate business centers. This location will serve as the corporate headquarters including sales, accounting, client relations and marketing. Production efforts, including SEO services, PPC management, content marketing, email marketing, web design and related services will continue to be done in Georgia and Louisiana field offices.

Company president James Hobson commented, "The surging economy presents an opportunity to improve our sales plans, and give our local employees an easier commute. The Atlanta MSA is among the best in the nation. The northwest metro sector is not only growing rapidly but has a dense population of the types of companies we want as clients. We're excited to be positioned to engage these businesses as a truly local provider of digital marketing services."

Mr. Hobson added, "The city of Kennesaw has always been very supportive of the business community. They go above and beyond to help make it is easy to relocate to the area. We were fortunate to find a great location, and even more blessed to find space that can accommodate our continued growth."

About E-Platform Marketing

E-Platform Marketing is a digital marketing agency serving clients throughout the United States. The company provides SEO services, local search, PPC management, content marketing, email marketing, website development, public relations, and related services to create and manage an online business presence.

Visit the companys website at http://www.EPlatformMarketing.com for more information.
Resolute Reverse, a department of Resolute Bank, is a top 20 reverse mortgage lender and is originating in all 50 states under a Federal NMLS registration. Steady growth is the result of an increased focus and development of a scalable internal infrastructure providing efficiency in our loan fulfillment process.

Resolute Reverse, a department of Resolute Bank is continuing its trend of reverse mortgage growth during the first and second quarters of 2017. The continued growth for the reverse mortgage department is fueled by an increased focus on the loan fulfillment process and leveraging technology in their proprietary systems. Also, playing a large part in Resolute Banks continued growth were strategic new hires within operations and management as well as a continued focus on recruiting top sales talent in the industry.

Andre Gregoire, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives states, steady growth is the result of an increased focus and development of a scalable internal infrastructure providing efficiency in our loan fulfillment process, increased communication and transparency organization wide and top tier customer service for our sales partners.

Year to date Resolute Banks reverse mortgage volume is up 185% from January to April of 2016 and up 267% from the same time period in 2015.

ReverseWorks, Resolute Banks proprietary system, has provided an elegant solution to the challenges of communication, visibility, accountability and transparency that are often the road blocks on the path to success in the HECM loan process. The efficiency we have gained allows us to continue to grow without additional staffing needs, as well as position us to scale far beyond what weve already done, says Gregoire.

Resolute Reverse, a department of Resolute Bank is a top 20 reverse mortgage lender; and is originating in all 50 states under a Federal NMLS registration. The reverse mortgage department offers an entire suite of services including full service processing; in-house underwriting and funding; a scenario desk and an application fulfillment team. Possessing a fine-tuned business model, cutting edge technology, excellent customer service and extensive product knowledge, the reverse mortgage department at Resolute Bank is a solid partner our clients can trust.

Resolute Bank, established in 2006, is a full-service community bank located in Maumee, OH and a member bank of the FDIC. Resolute Bank is an Equal Housing Lender, Equal Opportunity Lender and an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information regarding the Reverse Mortgage Department at Resolute Bank, visit the departments website at:

http://www.resolutereverse.com
ASPnix.com, a leader in Microsoft Windows shared hosting and Microsoft Windows Virtual Private Server hosting, announced today it has renewed its partnership with SmarterTools, enabling it to continue to provide its clients with access to award-winning productivity software.

Through the partnership, qualified ASPnix customers receive access to the latest versions of SmarterMail, SmarterStats, and SmarterTrack at no additional charge. The software enables small to medium sized businesses to operate more efficiently, and save time and money through automation. ASPnix customers can receive their licenses to the software in their customer control panel.

Since the beginning, SmarterTools software has been a cornerstone for our business and has helped us establish our name in the Web hosting industry as one of the best. For this reason, we jumped at the chance to become a partner and provide our customers with the same level of software and technology that we trust and live by every day, said Christopher York, CTO, ASPnix.com.

SmarterMail is a scalable and easy to manage mail server with a richly rendered webmail interface, extensive reporting, throttling, collaboration, synchronization with mobile devices, out-of-the-box antispam/antivirus, and an industry-leading events architecture that provides automated actions and detailed notifications.

SmarterStats provides businesses, hosting environments, and webmasters with an in-depth understanding of keywords and visitor navigation trends by providing on-demand website statistics, SEO campaigns, custom reports, data mining, geographic mapping, and more.

SmarterTrack is a robust support help desk with a ticket system, live chat, call logs, website visitor monitoring, knowledge base, reporting, and more delivered through an elegant Web interface. The customer support software helps businesses of all sizes improve customer service by optimizing help desk operations.

ASPnix.com provides customized Virtual Private Servers and dedicated server solutions. ASPnix Web Hosting also offers Linux hosting, Team Speak 3 VoIP servers, SSL certificates, shared Web hosting, and domain name registration.
Healthcare information technology and cybersecurity executive search firm Kirby Partners has earned a spot on the Forbes 2017 "America's Best Executive Search Firms list.

Im proud Kirby Partners is included on such a well-respected list. It is an even bigger honor knowing how it is difficult for a small, boutique executive search firm to earn a spot on the list among much larger firms that work across many verticals. We are deeply committed to client satisfaction and have focused on building long-term relationships in our nearly 30 years in the executive search industry. Our customer-centric approach has helped us be recognized among the nations best, said Judy Kirby, President of Kirby Partners.

Forbes, using analytics from Statista, compiled the list after reviewing an online survey completed by thousands of recruiters, employees and HR managers. Respondents were asked to recommend up to 10 executive search firms (excluding their own). A total of 20,000 recommendations were collected. The companies with the most recommendations and highest evaluations ranked highest on the list.

Kirby Partners, with offices in Lake Mary, Florida outside of Orlando, engages in executive searches for CIOs, CMIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and other senior technology positions exclusively in healthcare and cybersecurity. Since 1991, leading healthcare systems, consulting firms, and corporations across the United States have relied on Kirby Partners to fill their strategically significant positions. Learn more at kirbypartners.com.
Thematic Unit: Westward Expansion With Readtopia, teachers can break through literacy barriers and bring out the potential of each student to participate and LEARN academically and in life. Karen Erickson, PhD

Readtopia combines over $5 million of materials developed over a decade by a panel of educators, innovators, researchers, writers, and videographers. The core of the program features experiential video, graphic novels (at six levels to match student needs), and informational text.

Readtopia reflects my years of research and work with students. It gives teachers a comprehensive set of instructional materials like weve never had before, said Dr. Karen Erickson of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With Readtopia, teachers can break through literacy barriers and bring out the potential of each student to participate and LEARN academically and in life. If you work with students with complex needs, you need to understand what weve done here.

Company founder and Readtopia visionary, Don Johnston, calls this curriculum his lifes work. For decades, he envisioned paving a path of discovery that could change the way students with complex needs learn while equipping teachers with the resources they need to make learning to read an experience.

When I discovered how to make movies in my head, it transformed my experience as a student, Don explained. I didnt have a problem learning when I saw. When reading, I had to transform the words on the page into visual images. Then I got the point.

To achieve his dream, Don traveled the world filming on-location with film maker Mike Byrne to produce original video. Education visionaries Karen Erickson, Ph.D., and Caroline Musselwhite, Ed.D., created the educational design. Writers, including Jerry Stemach, M.S. CCC-SLP, Carol Seibert, Helen Sillett, Ph.D., and creative design teams developed leveled graphic novels rich with age-respectful images and authentic texts. These materials are complemented with leveled, standards-based activities.

The result is a wide ranging collection of thematic units driven by explicitly guided lessons.

This format of deep and experiential learning takes students to places they may never have the opportunity to visit. Don filmed his own journey down 1,000 feet in a submarine to help students learn about oceanography. He also filmed inside a volcano in Iceland as a way to introduce them to the book Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Other videos in the Readtopia collection include professional actors portraying historical figures and real events. Students can hear from Sacagawea to understand the journey Lewis and Clark faced heading west. They see a reenactment on an actual Civil War battlefield to experience the harsh realities that shaped the history of our country. Readtopia allows students to experience learning as a means to support and reinforce reading instruction.

All of this is supported by authentic literature, phonics/early reading instruction, and informational text that builds foundational reading skills for students with a wide range of special needs including autism spectrum disorders, behavioral disorders, cognitive disabilities, physical/health impairments, and multiple disabilities.

Readtopia delivers the curriculum through thematic units that will help teachers transform classrooms into laboratories of experiential learning.

A Readtopia subscription includes online access to the following resources:



All of the thematic units available (including all additional units to be added)

Videos for each thematic unit

Graphic Novels at six levels

Leveled Informational Text (10 types)

Authentic text

Instructional guides

Phonics and Word Study

Assessment

Resource Links:

To learn more about Readtopia, please visit:

http://donjohnston.com/readtopia

To watch a video of Readtopia used in a classroom, please visit:

http://bit.ly/2s55oan
UNIVERSAL WINDOWS DIRECT has been awarded a 2017 Top Workplaces honor by The Plain Dealer. The Top Workplaces lists are based solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by WorkplaceDynamics, LLC.

The Top Workplaces award is not a popularity contest. And oftentimes, people assume its all about fancy perks and benefits, says Doug Claffey, CEO of WorkplaceDynamics. But to be a Top Workplace, organizations must meet our strict standards for organizational health. And who better to ask about work life than the people who live the culture every daythe employees. Time and time again, our research has proven that whats most important to them is a strong belief in where the organization is headed, how its going to get there, and the feeling that everyone is in it together." Claffey adds, Without this sense of connection, an organization doesnt have a shot at being named a Top Workplace.

We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment. We try to encourage a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. This is a place of growth and opportunity, we help each other. Our employees mean the world to us, and we dont take them for granted, said Bill Barr, UWD co-founder. This is a significant achievement for Universal Windows Direct, especially since its directly from the employees.

About UNIVERSAL WINDOWS DIRECT

Universal Windows Direct is an exterior renovation company based out of Cleveland, Ohio, with Corporate locations in Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, along with a growing number of authorized dealer locations. It was founded in 2002 by William Barr and Michael Strmac, who had a mission to provide the highest quality home improvement products at the best possible value. Today, Universal Windows Direct is one of the fastest-growing home improvement companies in the country that offers replacement products to fit nearly any budget.
Tenney Space Simulation System

Thermal Product Solutions, a global manufacturer of environmental testing equipment, announced the shipment of a Tenney Environmental Vacuum / Temperature Space Simulation system to a logistics company. The outer structural shell of the environmental simulator is designed to resist one atmosphere of external pressure while under vacuum.

The vessel has a 42 diameter and is 36.5 long. The temperature range of this space simulator is 60C to +155 C. The temperature uniformity is 5C. A fluid conditioning system is employed to temperature condition the chamber using an electric immersion heater and an LN2 Fluid Cooling System to heat and cool a circulating heat transfer fluid.

The system is designed for vacuum performance of 1.0 x 10-6 Torr within two (2) hours based on a clean, dry, empty and outgassed system with the ultimate performance being 1.0 x 10-7 Torr. This chamber features a two-stage vacuum system, which employs a dry vacuum roughing pump in the first stage and a turbomolecular pump in the second stage.

At Thermal Product Solutions, we want to provide the most advanced technologies for our customers. For this project, we used a stainless-steel vacuum vessel and temperature conditioned internal shroud to simulate outer space conditions.- Rick Powell, Vacuum Products Manager

Unique features of this Tenney environmental space simulator include:



VersaTenn Temperature Control System with data acquisition

Conditioned Thermal Base Plate on extension slides for ease of product access

Vacuum pumping system with a dry roughing pump an turbo molecular pump

Granville Phillips 300 Series controller to monitor chamber pressure

Six 6 access ports

LN 2 cooling system

Built in limit alarms

About Tenney

Tenney and Lunaire boast one of the most comprehensive lines of standard and custom environmental-testing chambers and rooms in the industry. Known for its innovative engineering and design, robust construction, and superior performance, the Tenney and Lunaire line of test chambers is designed to meet all of your temperature, humidity, altitude, vibration, and vacuum-testing requirements. Tenney and Lunaire environmental chambers, rooms, and ovens are backed by TPSs design assistance and global support and are available in a variety of configurations and footprints.

About TPS

Thermal Product Solutions (TPS), is a leading American manufacturer of industrial ovens, furnaces, pharmaceutical sterilizers, laboratory ovens, environmental temperature chambers, and stability test chambers. TPS provides thermal processing and test solutions for a range of industries. TPS brands include Baker Furnace, Blue M, Gruenberg, Tenney, Lindberg, Lunaire, MPH, and Wisconsin Oven. For more information on equipment solutions from TPS visit the website at http://www.thermalproductsolutions.com #117481
ZRent (http://www.ZRent.net), a division of Leader Bank, is proud to welcome Seneca Savings to its expanding network. ZRent partners with financial institutions, allowing them to provide online rent collection services to their landlord and small business customers. This added value gives Seneca Savings and ZRents other partner institutions a substantial competitive advantage and increased customer loyalty. The new relationship with ZRent will allow Seneca Savings landlord and tenant customers to fully automate the rental payment process at no cost to the end user.

We are thrilled to welcome Seneca Savings into the growing ZRent network. We look forward to introducing their customers to the many benefits of ZRent, said Jay Tuli, the Senior Vice President of Retail Banking at Leader Bank. We know that both Seneca Savings and especially their landlord customers will find a great value in ZRent. Automating the rent collection process will save landlords time, the hassle of chasing down late payments, and making the monthly trip to the bank!

ZRent is another great example of the technology we provide to keep up with our customers ever-changing needs, said Joseph G. Vitale, President/CEO and Director of Seneca Savings. It provides a simple, convenient solution for our customers who are looking to efficiently manage and streamline their ongoing rent collection.

ZRent works by automatically deducting rent payments from the tenants bank account and depositing them directly into the landlords account. Tenants can set and forget their monthly payments, and landlords will no longer have the hassle of collecting checks and making the trip to the bank. ZRent also provides peace of mind for the landlords, who will now receive one complete payment for each unit on the same day every month. ZRent is free of charge for any landlord that banks with one of the participating institutions, which currently include Seneca Savings, StonehamBank, and Leader Bank.

For more information on Leader Banks innovative ZRent tool, visit http://www.zrent.net, email zrent(at)zrent(dot)net, or call 781-641-8691.

About Seneca Savings

Seneca Savings has a rich history since it was first chartered in 1928 in upstate New York. The current president/CEO, Joseph Vitale, came to the bank in 2013 with a continued focus of offering exceptional, personal community-based product and services that sets it apart from the big banks. Seneca Savings has assets of $168,581,000 with three offices located in Baldwinsville, North Syracuse and Liverpool with forty-three employees. Visit Seneca Savings website at http://www.SenecaSavings.com or any one of the Banks convenient branch locations for more information. This Member FDIC bank is regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

About ZRent

ZRent (http://www.ZRent.net) was launched in 2015 as a cash management tool that allows for the electronic collection and processing of rent payments. ZRents goal is to provide a convenient solution that will make the rent collection process a seamless and set and forget experience for both landlords and tenants. As an independent division of Leader Bank, ZRent is available to other financial institutions as a cash management tool for property owners and condo associations. Banks that partner with ZRent will be able to offer the product to their customers completely free of charge.
Doctors on Liens and Healing Touch Chiropractic have teamed up in East San Jose to provide care to personal injury victims in need. The most recent addition to this exclusive network is Dr. Harman Cherra, DC with Healing Touch Chiropractic. His office is proudly rated by patients as one of the best offices in the South Bay Area.

Doctors on Liens, the leading network of medical providers working on a lien basis, partners with the greatest medical professionals who provide the most effective and efficient care on a lien basis. Doctors on Liens pre-screens and pre-approves each medical professional on their list, ensuring that everyone receives prompt and courteous service, same or next day appointments, and detailed medical evaluations by the best providers throughout California.

The most recent addition to this exclusive network is Dr. Harman Cherra, DC with Healing Touch Chiropractic. His office is proudly rated by patients as one of the best offices in the South Bay Area.

Dr. Cherra, who graduated with both a Doctorate of Chiropractic and a Master of Health Administration, has years of professional experience. He proudly works with care and expert knowledge as he manipulates the joints and spine to establish optimal pain relief, mobility and function. His specialization and experience with Healing Touch Chiropractic includes:



Diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions

Working with patients through the technique of spinal decompression

Implementing systems and processes and to ensure quality is not compromised

Active partnerships in multidisciplinary patient care with medical doctors and other health care professionals

Patient education in wellness promotion and disease prevention

Implementing clinical processes and procedures to maintain clinic compliance and regulatory requirements per current State and National regulations

Formulating business and clinical processes and ensuring they are up to date with organizational trends

Maintaining and enforcing HIPPA Compliance requirements

Says Doctors on Liens President, Samantha Parker, We are excited to welcome Dr. Cherra with Healing Touch Chiropractic to our leading team of doctors. He has a great facility, and I know he will go above and beyond with his reputation of being the peoples choice in chiropractic care. I am thrilled patients in the greater San Jose area are getting the attention they desperately need after an accident.

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 throughout California and Nevada.
Marlin Steel, a custom steel basket and metal form manufacturer specializing in using factory automation and lean manufacturing methodology, recently added retired Rear Admiral Nicholas Kalathas, SC, USN to its leadership team. Kalathas is now Marlin Steels Senior Advisor, Defense Programshelping steer the manufacturers efforts to serve both the U.S. Military and defense contractors that support Americas military.

Kalathas brings over 30 years of experience at the highest levels of operations, acquisition, and logistics of the United States Navy and the Department of Defense. Prior to achieving Flag rank, Kalathas was assigned to the Defense Logistics Agency as a Contracting Officer with an unlimited warrant, supervising 120 buyers in support of critical Warfighter needs for Class IX spare and repair parts. He also designed a successful training program to advance the careers and capabilities of his subordinates while reducing acquisition lead times and prices during his time as Contracting Officer.

After his selection to the rank of Rear Admiral in 2008, Kalathas became the Assistant Deputy Commander for Logistics at Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington, D.C.assuming responsibility for a billion-dollar annual maintenance budget and over 500 personnel. He discovered significant cost reductions while there, and went on to serve with distinction in the CENTCOM Joint Theater Support Contracting Command and the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics in the Pentagon.

Kalathas decades of experience in handling military acquisitions reinforces Marlins ability to respond to the needs of defense industry clientele and the other manufacturers who work with them.
Bolstering its position in the advertising and marketing technology events sector, Access Intelligence has announced the acquisition of AdExchanger, a leading integrated media and events company with highly acclaimed conferences and media offerings focused on digital advertising and marketing. This marks Access Intelligences fifth major acquisition in the past several years of leading brands serving media, technology, marketing and advertising executives.

John Ebbert, who founded AdExchanger in 2008 with a daily online publication and email newsletter, is one of the leading authorities on programmatic advertising and the changing landscape of marketing and digital. Seizing early on the opportunities to educate and connect industry players, he launched seminal events that are today among the largest of its kind: Programmatic I/O in New York and San Francisco held in October and April, respectively, and Industry Preview, taking place January in New York. These conferences, along with AdExchanger daily publications and news coverage, bring together thousands of marketers, agencies, publishers, data providers, investors and the advertising and marketing technology companies. Coverage areas include programmatic, header bidding, data, brand safety, measurement, social media, video, mobile and ecommerce.

Ebbert joins Access Intelligence as the Founder & Publisher of AdExchanger, along with his highly talented team based in New York City. AdExchanger is now part of Access Intelligences Media/Communications Group, led by Diane Schwartz, senior vice president. The groups other brands include AdMonsters, PR News, Cynopsis, Folio:, min, Cablefax, Studio Daily, and The Social Shake-Up. Other brands at Access Intelligence that serve a marketing audience include Event Marketer, Chief Marketer and Multichannel Merchant.

Our vision is to deliver best-in-class intelligence and connection points for our business communities and AdExchanger does that in remarkable ways with its fantastic reputation and content, said Don Pazour, CEO of Access Intelligence. AdExchanger is a natural fit with our other premier brands in this market, including AdMonsters, Folio:, Cynopsis and Chief Marketer.

By bringing AdExchanger into the fold, Access Intelligence now offers a complete suite of compelling offerings for publishers, marketers and digital media leaders who are looking for an independent voice to help them navigate the quickly shifting media landscape as brands and publishers seek to make sense of the $32 billion programmatic advertising industry and the plethora of technologies serving marketers.

We are very excited to join the Access Intelligence team as we continue with our goal to educate, entertain and enlighten our audience during a time of rapid change and opportunity, said Ebbert.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. JEGI advised AdExchanger on the transaction.

The AdExchanger addition marks Access Intelligence's continued investment in market-leading events and information solutions for business executives. Over the past several years, Access Intelligence completed acquisitions in the media/marketing and healthcare sectors, including that of The Social Shake-Up, AdMonsters, LeadsCon, Red7 Media, OR Manager and Cynopsis Media.

Access Intelligence is a b-to-b media and information company headquartered in Rockville, Md., serving the media, PR, broadcasting & cable, healthcare management, defense, chemical engineering, satellite and aviation markets. Leading brands include Cynopsis, Via Satellite, PR News, AdMonsters, Cablefax, Folio:, Event Marketer, LeadsCon, Chief Marketer, Defense Daily Network, AviationToday, Studio Daily; Power and Exchange Monitor. Market-leading shows include LeadsCon, AdMonsters OPS and Publisher Summits, The Folio: Show, Experiential Marketing Summit, SATELLITE 2017, OR Manager, LDC Gas Forums, Clean Gulf, Electric Power, and Western Power Summit.
Weaver Nut Company We also have many options with ingredients and centers for your chocolate manufacturing needs. All of this comes together to make a perfect fit for a long-term supplier of your candy making needs

Weaver Nut Company, Inc. (http://www.weavernut.com) is pleased to announce attendance at the Retail Confections International (RCI) 100th Annual Convention and Industry Expo. As the preferred chocolate supplier for chocolatiers, pastry chefs, restaurants, bakeries, cake making supply retailers, and gourmet home cooks worldwide, Weaver Nut was proud to be among the featured exhibitors at the RCI annual event, held this year in Chicago, Illinois from June 12-16.

The 2017 Retail Confections International (http://www.retailconfectioners.org/) celebrated its 100th year as the go to Convention and Industry Expo highlighting premium ingredients, state of the art equipment, innovative packaging, as well as wholesale and business services for confectioners around the globe. This years event featured educational sessions, workshops offering in-depth skill building, Candy Clinics, Kettle Talks, one-on-one consultations, and the expansive Expo, which featured Weaver Nut and their premium chocolate offerings.

Weaver Nuts exhibit highlighted their preferred chocolate supplier status as they showcased their delicious chocolate offerings including Wilbur Chocolate, Veliche Pure Belgium Chocolate, Merkens Chocolate, Peters Chocolate, Cacao Barry, and more. With Weaver Nuts extensive and high quality chocolate collections coupled with Weavers 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, the possibilities are endless. Promising premium quality, the finest taste, and ongoing availability, Weaver Nut delivers innovation and exceptional flavor for bakers, chefs, chocolatiers, and home cooks to fashion indulgent chocolate creations.

Here at Weaver Nut Company, we are proud of our rich heritage in distribution of bulk chocolate products that many candy makers have come to expect from us far and near. We have highly skilled individuals on staff to help new customers that are just getting into chocolate making or to help guide those that are struggling with an issue. We also have many options with ingredients and centers for your chocolate manufacturing needs. All of this comes together to make a perfect fit for a long-term supplier of your candy making needs.  Vincent Weaver CFO, Weaver Nut Company, Inc.

At Weaver Nut Company, Inc., the mission is always to provide the best quality product at the lowest price, delivered on time, every time, while serving the customer the way they want to be served.

Visit http://www.weavernut.com/and discover why Weaver Nut Company, Inc., is your preferred chocolate supplier delivering the best in chocolate from around the world!

Bio: From their basement, the Weaver Family launched their business more than 40 years ago with the mission to serve customers as they want to be served with quality, integrity and enthusiasm. Since that time, the company has grown into Weaver Nut Company, Inc. thanks to a fully dedicated team and a vast array of satisfied customers. Today the company includes Food Brokers International, the Amish Maid private label, Weaver Chocolates, Land of the Gummies, and Weaver Nut Sweets and Snacks retail and online. Visit http://www.weavernut.com today, choose your favorites, and experience the delectable difference that is Weaver Nut Company, Inc.
Supporting Lillys Heros Journey art project is a natural alliance for CISCRP since we have an entire program dedicated to recognizing Medical Heroes..."

The Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP), an independent non-profit organization dedicated to educating patients and the public about clinical research is excited to announce support of Eli Lilly and Companys (Lilly) Heros Journey Art Project, a series of sculptures created to honor clinical trial participants and raise awareness of clinical research.

Lilly has commissioned artist John Magnan to create The Hero's Journey. Magnan is a Massachusetts artist who creates unique sculptures addressing health care, social, and environmental issues. For The Heros Journey project, Magnan is building a set of crowdsourced sculptures made of 1,000 decorated wooden bricks, submitted by clinical trial participants and community members around the nation.

One of CISCRPs most important initiatives is the Medical Heroes Campaign, launched to recognize and honor clinical trial volunteers who give the gift of trial participation. CISCRPs Founder and Board Chair, Ken Getz, comments, Supporting Lillys Heros Journey art project is a natural alliance for CISCRP since we have an entire program dedicated to recognizing Medical Heroes - the millions of people who take part in clinical trials each year to help advance public health and medical knowledge. With our support of this project we hope to help raise public awareness of and appreciation for these brave and incredible individuals.

Lilly is excited to see the broad research community, particularly patients, honored for their efforts in bringing new medicines to the world, said Joe Kim, Senior Advisor in Clinical Innovation at Lilly. Using art to publicly commemorate the clinical trial community is both rare and unexpected. We hope that this art will inspire others to engage with research to improve the well-being of future generations.

The first sculpture, Departure was unveiled on March 10, 2017 at LiveSTRONG Headquarters, in Austin, TX. As completed bricks are returned, additional sculptures will be created and set for unveiling. Follow #herosjourneyart on social media for updates on additional sculpture locations.

Whether you are a trial participant snapping a photo with your completed brick or you simply want to express your thoughts on the clinical trial journey, make sure you use the hashtag #herosjourneyart.

ABOUT CISCRP:

The Center for Information and Study (CISCRP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to engaging the public and patients as partners in the clinical research process. CISCRP provides free education and outreach to the general public and patient communities. Visit http://www.CISCRP.org for more information or to support CISCRPs educational initiatives.
Florida Hospital Tampa Women's Health Pavilion Celebrates the Opening of Two Surgical Suites With Ribbon Cutting Ceremony The addition of these two operating rooms enhances our capabilities in caring for both women and pediatric patients.

Florida Hospital Tampa Womens Health Pavilion announced the opening of two brand new operating rooms this month. These additions will expand the capabilities of the surgical center, allowing the hospital to treat patients of all ages in state-of-the-art facilities. One operating room will be solely dedicated to pediatric operations, while the other will be primarily used for womens surgical services.

The dedicated pediatric operating room has been designed specifically with pediatric patients in mind. Philips Ambient Lighting provides an interactive experience, allowing patients to choose colored lighting effects along the walls. The advanced surgical equipment and medical supplies are specific to the needs of surgeons operating on children ranging from 500 gram neonatal babies, to full-grown 18-year-olds. The expansive 817 square foot operating room allows plenty of room for maneuvering and proper equipment.

The unveiling of this pediatric operating room further enhances the relationship between Florida Hospital Tampa and Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital. In August 2016, Florida Hospital Tampa announced its affiliation with Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital, ensuring that pediatric inpatients are seen and treated by Johns Hopkins Specialty Physicians onsite at Florida Hospital Tampa, this now includes the pediatric surgical suite.

The second surgical suite to be unveiled will be designated for womens surgical services. As the surrounding community continues to grow, this operating room allows the Womens Health Pavilion to grow with the community and treat women in a space tailored to their needs. Womens surgeons now have access to a spacious operating room featuring state-of-the-art technology and equipment. Situated steps away from the hospitals Labor and Delivery unit, cesarean deliveries can be performed in this room.

The addition of these two operating rooms enhances our capabilities in caring for both women and pediatric patients. We are excited to now have a space dedicated to pediatric operations, equipped with the latest technology, that elevates our commitment to pediatrics and our affiliation with Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital into the operating room, remarked Alicia Lang, AVP of Womens and Childrens Services at Florida Hospital Tampa.

The Womens Health Pavilion is committed to comprehensive care to women at every stage in life, specializing in obstetrics, gynecology, and breast health. These two new surgical suites extend the level of care that Florida Hospital Tampa can provide to women and children in the Tampa Bay area. For more information on the Womens Health Pavilion and the services provided, visit FHTampa.org or to schedule an appointment or tour, call (813) 615-7300.

About Florida Hospital Tampa

Florida Hospital Tampa is a not-for-profit 527-bed tertiary hospital specializing in Digestive Health, Cardiovascular Medicine, Neuroscience, Orthopedics, Womens Services, Pediatrics, Oncology, Endocrinology, Bariatrics, Wound Healing, Sleep Medicine and General Surgery, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures. Also located at Florida Hospital Tampa is the renowned Florida Hospital Pepin Heart Institute, a recognized leader in cardiovascular disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment and leading-edge research. The recent addition of the Doc1st ER shows that Florida Hospital Tampa is committed to providing compassionate and quality healthcare. Part of the Adventist Health System, Florida Hospital is a leading health network comprised of 26 hospitals throughout the state. For more information, visit FHTampa.org
Ashley Mondello, VP of Operations At a time when Language Scientific is experiencing significant growth, Ashley has shown time and again her innate leadership abilities.

Language Scientific, Inc. announces the promotion of Ashley Mondello to the role of Vice President of Operations. With over 10 years of experience in the translation industry, Mondello brings experience developing customized processes for clients and development of training and hiring practices. Mondello was instrumental in expanding Language Scientific's dedicated Endpoint Adjudication and Pharmacovigilance translation practice leveraging doctors and medical professionals to quickly and accurately handle large volumes of handwritten reports. During her tenure with Language Scientific, she has also further developed existing linguistic validation protocol adhering to ISPOR guidelines.

Her experience within the translation industry will help Language Scientific further provide customized scientific translation services to their clients within the life science industries. Language Scientific is continuing to expand and is hiring more staff to supplement and enhance its service offerings. Language Scientific continues to explore its unique combination of high quality technical and medical translation services and cutting edge technology to generate new language service options for its customers.

At a time when Language Scientific is experiencing significant growth, Ashley has shown time and again her innate leadership abilities, says Sharon Blank, CEO of Language Scientific. "Throughout this growth, Ashley has managed to exceed all expectations in maintaining the high-quality standards that Language Scientific adheres to."

Prior to coming on board at Language Scientific, Mondello had previously worked as a Sr. Project Manager of Localization Services and Sr Project Coordinator of Client Services for PHT Corporation. In her new role, Mondello will be responsible for strategic planning as well as seeking out new growth opportunities.

"In my four years working at Language Scientific, we have made significant strides into further increasing our stringent quality policies" says Mondello. "I am looking forward to continuing to grow our clinical translations division and remain dedicated to providing the highest quality translation services in the industry. I have an extremely positive outlook for the future of Language Scientific.

With over 20 years as a full-service language services provider, Language Scientific offers a wide portfolio of services, including Translation, Software and Multimedia Localization, Website Translation, Interpreting (both scheduled and on-demand), Linguistic Validation and Cognitive Debriefing, Natural Language Processing and other customized language solutions. Language Scientific has developed unique processes for assisting Clinical Research Organizations with the translation of their endpoint adjudication, pharmacovigilance and drug safety documentation. Language Scientific specializes in scientific and technical translation and localization and has earned independent ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 certifications.

###

About Language Scientific, Inc.

Language Scientific, Inc. is a US-based globalization company specializing in medical, scientific and technical language services and solutions with a record of more than 20 years of excellence in all the European, Asian, Middle Eastern, African and American languages. Language Scientific serves more than 1,500 clients in the biopharmaceutical, medical device and engineering industries, from Fortune 500 companies to small emerging companies. Our specialization, focus, innovation and customer-centered attitude have earned us the trust of many of the worlds best science, technology, healthcare, bio-medical and pharmaceutical companies. For more information, visit our website or email: info(at)languagescientific.com

Worldwide Offices

United States: Medford, MA (Corporate Headquarters) | Los Angeles, CA

Europe: London, United Kingdom

Asia: Chongqing, China | Shanghai, China

Certifications

ISO 9001:2008

ISO 17100:2015

ASTM F2575-06

ASTM F2089-01

http://www.languagescientific.com
Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd., The Terry Law Firm, Ltd., and The Cohen Law Group are pleased to announce a settlement in a False Claims Act (FCA) case that was brought against for-profit Nevada hospice provider Creekside Hospice II, LLC and Skilled Healthcare LLC and their corporate parent Skilled Healthcare Group Inc., which were subsequently combined with Genesis Healthcare Inc. This global settlement of $53,639,288.04, including interest, is part of the resolution of multiple FCA cases and investigations against Genesis Healthcare (and its subsidiaries).

This settlement resolves a case filed by Joanne Cretney-Tsosie, a registered nurse and former clinical manager at Creekside Hospice, who initiated this qui tam lawsuit under the FCA. The United States intervened to join in the case in November 2014. The FCA is a Civil War era law that allows relators (or whistleblowers) to assist the government in fighting fraud in taxpayer-funded programs such as Medicare. Relators are entitled to a percentage of any recovery the government ultimately secures from wrongdoers.

Hospice companies such as Creekside Hospice receive millions of dollars from Medicare to serve patients who are terminally ill. In the complaint, the United States alleged that, from 2010 to 2013, Creekside violated the FCA by knowingly submitting or causing the submission of false claims to Medicare for reimbursement for hospice services for patients who were ineligible for coverage and for inappropriate charges for certain physician evaluation management services. Among other things, the United States alleged that Creekside Hospice employed a variety of illegal practices to increase hospice admissions without regard for whether the patients needed or qualified for hospice care and that it ignored concerns expressed by its own staff regarding patient eligibility. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations, with no determination as to liability.

Juliet Berger-White, counsel for Ms. Cretney-Tsosie stated: The FCA provides an essential tool for the government to work in partnership with private individuals to pursue fraud, fight waste, and recover taxpayer dollars. We are grateful for the governments commitment to litigating this case brought by Ms. Cretney-Tsosie and for the strong cooperative relationship between the relators team and the governments lawyers. Tim Terry, counsel for Ms. Cretney-Tsosie, added: We applaud our client, Joanne Cretney-Tsosie, for bringing this important case to the attention of the government and for devoting over five years to assisting the government in bringing this matter to a successful conclusion.

In a statement issued on June 16, 2017, Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Departments Civil Division said: We will continue to hold health care providers accountable if they bill for unnecessary or substandard services or treatment. Todays settlement demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protect federal health care programs against unscrupulous providers. The full statement from the Department of Justice is available at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/genesis-healthcare-inc-agrees-pay-federal-government-536-million-resolve-false-claims-act.

Cretney-Tsosie is represented by Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd. and The Cohen Law Group (both of Chicago, Illinois) and The Terry Law Firm, Ltd. (Carson City, Nevada).

The case is captioned United States ex rel. Cretney-Tsosie v. Creekside Hospice II, LLC, et al. and was litigated in the United States District Court in Nevada. The case number is 2:13-cv-00167.

For more information, please contact:

Juliet Berger-White

Hughes Socol Piers Resnick & Dym, Ltd.

http://www.hsplegal.com

312.604.2616

Tim Terry

The Terry Law Firm

http://theterrylawfirm.com

775.291.9071
Stephanie Higashi, founder of HEALTH ATLAST, discusses the alternatives to medical and recreational marijuana when dealing with pain and stress. Instead of using a substance that hasnt proven to be completely safe, we encourage patients to explore tried and true treatment options like chiropractic care.

From 2002 to 2015, the rate of opioid-related deaths has increased more than two-fold(1), leading some to call for the legalization of medical marijuana as a safer alternative to traditional medical therapies. But even as more states approve marijuana for a variety of ailments, research is beginning to reveal the destructive effects marijuana can have on patients and their families. As a time-tested, safer alternative, new integrated healthcare practices, like those at HEALTH ATLAST, offer proven therapies, like medical, chiropractic care, massage and acupuncture, that help patients find relief without putting them at risk.

One of the most popular forms of medical marijuana includes edible products, which may contain levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, of up to 95%(2). In states that have legalized medical marijuana, there have already been recorded increases in the numbers of traffic deaths involving marijuana use; in Colorado alone, fatal accidents involving marijuana increased by an astonishing 62%(2).

Additionally, rates of hospitalization for marijuana-related incidents have risen. In Colorado, hospitalizations involving marijuana increased by approximately 30% each year since its legalization(2). In Washington and Colorado, rates of marijuana-related poisonings have also risen drastically(2). Further, marijuana use has been associated with memory problems, learning deficits, and lower IQ(2).

Stephanie Higashi, founder of HEALTH ATLAST, says, Its still the early days of our research into medical marijuana, and, while there are some documented benefits for some patients, there are still substantial risks associated with marijuana use. Instead of using a substance that hasnt proven to be completely safe, we encourage patients to explore tried and true treatment options like chiropractic care.

A safer and more effective alternative to both traditional medical treatments, including opioids, and medical marijuana continues to be therapies such as chiropractic care, exercise, massage and acupuncture, offered by integrated healthcare facilities. As many as 94% of patients report a substantial reduction  30%  in lower back pain four weeks after chiropractic adjustment(3). Already, 27 million Americans visit chiropractors each year for treatment that doesnt involve prescription medications or medical marijuana(3).

Dr. Stephanie Higashi says, Patients most commonly come in with symptoms such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, anxiety, depression, or stress. Solutions such as chiropractics, acupuncture, massage, exercise and more should and can be tried without any worry of addiction. She continued to explain HEALTH ATLAST believes in providing patients with safe, effective alternatives to both traditional medical treatments and new, untested remedies like medical marijuana. The goal is to continue to provide these types of treatments to patients in each franchise location. That way, patients can be sure they are receiving the most comprehensive, holistic treatment from a multidisciplinary team that avoids the use of substances as much as possible.

About HEALTH ATLAST:

HEALTH ATLAST was founded to bring medical, chiropractic, acupuncture and massage care models together into one convenient, all-encompassing healthcare practice. Instead of referring patients to other healthcare providersHEALTH ATLAST brings professionals from multiple disciplines together under one roof to provide comprehensive, focused care to each patient.

At each HEALTH ATLAST franchise location, patients have access to knowledgeable, experienced health care providers, including medical doctors, doctors of chiropractic, and physiotherapists. Once a firm medical diagnosis is made, each patient is treated with the goal of successful rehabilitation and healing while avoiding unnecessary medications or surgeries as much as possible. Successful doctors of chiropractic, medical doctors, doctors of Osteopathic medicine, wellness professionals, philanthropic investors looking to expand and improve the health of others are candidates for being HEALTH ATLAST franchise owners. To learn more about HEALTH ATLAST, please visit http://www.healthatlastnow.com.

About Stephanie Higashi:

Stephanie Higashi while growing up observed people using marijuana, unnecessary prescription drugs and was dismayed to find a national model of healthcare focused on prescribing medications and performing invasive surgeries without first exploring safer alternative therapies. She began a search to find different solutions for medical problems, incorporating alternative methods of healthcare into one unique, all-encompassing practice model. Higashis uncommon approach to patient care has helped to bring medical professionals from diverse disciplines together with one common goalto avoid the use of unnecessary drugs and surgery treatments as much as possible, while effectively addressing the complex and varied medical needs of each patient. The end result are healthier patients and happier fulfilled doctors.

Sources:

1. Overdose Death Rates. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

2. Legalizing recreational marijuana is bad for public health. STAT News. https://www.statnews.com/2016/11/02/recreational-marijuana-public-health/

3. Crunching the numbers: Chiropractic statistics (and facts). The Good Body. http://www.thegoodbody.com/chiropractic-statistics-facts/
"We believe Zaloni embodies the drive, skill and passion on which tech thrives. Zaloni should be proud of its achievement -- the competition was incredibly strong.

Zaloni, a leading provider of big data management and governance solutions, has won Red Herrings Top 100 North America award, one of the technology industrys most prestigious recognitions. The award recognizes the most leading-edge technology companies that Red Herring thinks are positioned for strong future growth.

The winners, celebrated at an awards ceremony at the Marina Del Rey Marriott Hotel on June 14, were chosen from thousands of entrants and were judged by industry experts, insiders and journalists on a wide variety of criteria, including financial performance, innovation, business strategy and market penetration. Winners ran the gamut of verticals, from fintech and marketing to data, security, IoT and more.

Zaloni provides the software, services and solutions needed to help forward-thinking companies modernize their data environments. By simplifying big data in production and enabling the required governance, operationalization, as well as self-service access, Zaloni helps its customers reduce their time-to-insight and become truly data-driven.

Were honored that Red Herring recognizes Zaloni as a leading technology company to watch, said Ben Sharma, Zalonis co-founder and CEO. Zaloni has grown steadily over the last few years in both US and international markets in response to increasing demand by enterprises, particularly in data-rich industries like financial services, healthcare and telecommunications, for a unified, enterprise-grade data management platform to help them derive more value from their data.

Red Herrings editors have been evaluating the worlds startups and tech companies for over two decades. This expertise gives them the ability to see through the industrys hype to pick firms that will continue on a trajectory to success. Brands such as Alibaba, Cloudera, Google, Hortonworks, Skype, Spotify, Twitter and YouTube have all been singled out in Red Herrings storied history.

2017s crop of Top 100 winners has been among our most intriguing yet, said Red Herring chairman, Alex Vieux. North America has led the way in tech for so many years, and to see such unique, pioneering entrepreneurs and companies here in California, which is in many ways the heartland of the industry, has been a thrilling experience.

What has excited me most is to see so many people forging niches in high-tech and cutting edge sectors, added Vieux. Some of the technical wizardry and first-rate business models showcased here at the conference has been fantastic to learn about. We believe Zaloni embodies the drive, skill and passion on which tech thrives. Zaloni should be proud of its achievement -- the competition was incredibly strong.

About Zaloni

Zaloni, the data lake company, enables data-powered business by helping companies build agile, scalable modern data platforms. Our Bedrock data lake management platform is an integrated management and governance IT hub for data, ensuring control from ingestion through analytics. Our self-service data platform, Mica, provides business users with direct, controlled access to data with an intuitive data catalog and data preparation capabilities. We have worked with our customers to build successful production implementations at many of the worlds leading companies. To learn more, visit http://www.zaloni.com.

About Red Herring

Red Herring is a global media company which unites the world's best high technology innovators, venture investors and business decision makers in a variety of forums: a leading innovation magazine, an online daily technology news service, technology newsletters and major events for technology leaders around the globe. Red Herring provides an insider's access to the global innovation economy, featuring unparalleled insights on the emerging technologies driving the economy.
Mizuho OSI, manufacturer of specialty surgical tables, pressure management solutions, and table specific patient care kits, has been selected to receive the U.S. Healthcare Supplier of the Year Award (Small Volume) presented by Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX). Each year, the GHXcellence Awards recognize a leading healthcare supplier with up to $500 million in transaction volume across the GHX Exchange that has demonstrated the strongest year over year improvement.

Mizuho OSI is the market leader for specialty surgical tables that help improve patient outcomes in spine and orthopedic surgeries. The Company also sells general surgical tables (outside of the U.S.) and surgical care products to better meet the needs of all operating room environments. Working closely with GHX, the supply chain team at Mizuho OSI was able to identify opportunities to increase volume across its customer base and put a dedicated team in place to drive utilization.

The supply chain team identified a need to automate Mizuhos email and fax orders, and leveraged the GFax solution to accomplish that goal. Through this collaboration with GHX, Mizuho OSI has achieved outstanding results, including:



Over 200% purchase order line growth

Over 200% invoice line growth

100% advance shipping notice line growth

Over 150% in trading partner growth.

Mizuho OSI is honored to be recognized by GHX and prove that technology and improved supply chain management, along with our leading table innovations can dramatically impact bottom line results, said Greg Neukirch, Mizuho OSIs Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Healthcare providers face many challenges today and are under increased pressure to reduce costs while also providing great care and improving patient outcomes. Supply chain costs are at the top of the expense list for most hospitals and working with GHX to automate the order process has helped us service our customers more efficiently and accurately.

The GHXcellence Awards recognize companies that are driving savings and efficiency for their organizations, their trading partners and the healthcare industry. GHXs client base is comprised of more than 4,100 healthcare providers in the United States, Canada and Europe. The Awards were presented at the 2017 Healthcare Supply Chain Summit.

About GHX

Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX) drives costs out of health care with cloud-based supply chain management technology and services to help enable better patient care and savings by maximizing automation, efficiency, and accuracy of business processes. GHX offers healthcare providers and suppliers an open and neutral electronic trading exchange that delivers procurement and accounts payable automation, contract and inventory management, vendor credentialing and management, business intelligence, payment management and other supply chain-related tools and services. For more information, visit http://www.ghx.com and The Healthcare Hub. Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX) drives costs out of healthcare with cloud-based supply chain management technology and services to help enable better patient care and savings by maximizing automation, efficiency, and accuracy of business processes. GHX offers healthcare providers and suppliers an open and neutral electronic trading exchange that delivers procurement and accounts payable automation, contract and inventory management, vendor credentialing and management, business intelligence, payment management and other supply chain-related tools and services. For more information, visit http://www.ghx.com and The Healthcare Hub.

About Mizuho OSI

Mizuho OSI is a U.S.-based company and the leader in the markets for specialty surgery and patient positioning. The companys portfolio includes specialty surgical tables for procedure-specific approaches that improves patient outcomes in spine and orthopedic surgeries and a range of general surgical tables along with disposable and reusable surgical patient care products. Mizuho OSI products are sold direct in the U.S. and Germany, and by the Mizuho Corporation in Japan. Both companies sell their products and solutions worldwide through authorized international distributors. Mizuho OSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mizuho Corporation located in Tokyo, Japan, a leading surgical table manufacturer in Asia. The Mizuho Group also includes Trilux Medical, a subsidiary of Mizuho OSI. Trilux Medical is a provider and manufacturer of surgical lights, surgical pendants, operating room patient integration, video management systems, and turn-key operating room solutions. Trilux Medical products and solutions are sold direct in Germany and worldwide through authorized international distributors. More information is available at http://www.mizuhosi.com.
Our IntegriPure brand is a value-added service that we offer to our customers which means industry-leading validation for a 5-log reduction providing food safety assurance, naturally

Healthy Food Ingredients (HFI) announces its latest advancement in food safety with its chemical-free microbial reduction process (MRP) solution, IntegriPure. It effectively reduces microorganisms while protecting the integrity and functionality of ingredients. The IntegriPure MRP system is an effective alternative to irradiation and other pasteurization technologies.

The innovative rotation-based system evenly distributes dry, saturated steam heat for consistent pasteurization, and the quick-cooling vacuum ensures ingredient stability and quality.

Jay Johnson, senior VP of sales, explains Our IntegriPure brand is a value-added service that we offer to our customers which means industry-leading validation for a 5-log reduction providing food safety assurance, naturally.

Johnson adds that IntegriPure is one of HFIs signature processes that is differentiated from other heat treatments. With our system a key aspect is that the process is validated, in which he notes validation is a preventive control for FSMA. Consumers trust manufacturers to provide food that is pathogen-free without compromising ingredient functionality. Therefore, we partner with our customers to help them ensure they are meeting food safety standards, specifically with the upcoming FSMA regulations deadline, says Johnson.

Utilizing our own micro-reduction system allows us to have more control over our supply chain. This is an important component for us in providing supply assurance to our customers. We are continually improving our capabilities from farmer to our customer, and our IntegriPure process adds that additional facet of assurance, notes Johnson.

About Healthy Food Ingredients (HFI)

HFI is a growing family of global specialty ingredient brands, which include SK Food International, Hesco/Dakota Organic Products, Suntava and Heartland Flax. Combined, HFI offers non-GMO, organic, certified transitional, gluten-free, and identity preserved pulses, soybeans, grains, seeds, flax, expeller oils, and signature products Suntava Purple Corn and AncientGrisps. The company is dedicated to delivering safe, healthy, premium-quality ingredients and supply assurance using a diverse, long-standing grower network and the highest safety standards.

Learn more at http://www.HFIfamily.com.

HFI is supported by Horizon Holdings, LLC, a San Francisco-based private investment firm with a significant track record in successfully building private and public companies.
"Our liquidity aggregation becomes even more effective at assuring best execution in FX trading as liquidity providers like Thomson Reuters and EBS introduce faster market data technologies." Mark Skalabrin, CEO, Redline Trading Solutions

Redline Trading Solutions, the premier provider of high-performance market data and order execution systems for automated trading, today announced a new InRush feed handler for the next-generation binary multicast feed now being rolled out for foreign exchange trading on the Thomson Reuters FX Matching platform.

Over the last few years, electronic trading in foreign exchange has moved into the sweet spot of Redlines ultra-low latency trading solutions, said Mark Skalabrin, CEO of Redline. Our liquidity aggregation becomes even more effective at assuring best execution in FX trading as liquidity providers like Thomson Reuters and EBS introduce faster market data technologies, he adds.

Redlines foreign exchange trading solution now supports over 40 distinct FX feeds. This breadth has been expanded with recently released interfaces for FX liquidity providers that include Curex FX (ECN), Integrals Open Currency Exchange (OCX), and Moscow Exchange (MOEX). Redline will continue to provide feed handler support for Thomson Reuters FX Matching MAPI (RFA) feed, first implemented by Redline in 2013.

For more information, contact Redline at sales@redlinetrading.com.

About Redline Trading Solutions, Inc.

Redline Trading Solutions, a pre-eminent financial technology firm, empowers trading with high-performance market data and order execution solutions that solve todays toughest latency and reliability challenges while reducing costs. With offices in Boston, New York, London, Hong Kong and Belfast, Redlines customers include leading investment banks, brokers, exchanges, hedge funds, and proprietary trading firms. http://www.RedlineTrading.com

# # #

Redline and InRush are trademarks of Redline Trading Solutions, Inc.

Other products mentioned may be trademarks of their respective holders.
Lucid Software has partnered with Clearvision to bring the best of cloud-based visual communication tools to a broader audience within the Atlassian ecosystem. Clearvision, an Atlassian Platinum Solution Partner, offers scalable software solutions for a myriad of clients, including Tinder, Motorola, Cisco, and Vodafone. Lucid Software produces leading cloud-based visual productivity applicationsLucidchart and Lucidpress.

The partnership is designed to give Clearvision clients access to the superior visual solutions Lucid Softwares products provide. Lucidchart is a visual productivity platform that makes understanding and sharing ideas, information, and processes easy for anyone. Lucidpress is a design and layout application that helps enterprises create and distribute branded print and digital content across distributed teams. Both are utilized in over 175 countries by more than 10 million users.

In reference to the partnership, Joseph McFarlane, Manager of Channel Sales at Lucid Software said, We couldnt be happier with Clearvision as partners. Their consulting and implementation experience within the Atlassian ecosystem, coupled Lucids visual communication platform, will bring an unparalleled experience to Atlassian users around the globe.

Simon Wood, CMO at Clearvision, added, We at Clearvision are very excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring. Lucid Softwares strong presence within the Atlassian ecosystem complements ours, while its powerful visual communication tools will be a great addition to the portfolio of products and services our clients love.

Both companies are confident that this partnership will help them to bring an even greater level of service to their clients.

About Lucid

Lucid Software is a leading provider of cloud-based visual productivity applications. Lucidchart is an essential visual productivity platform that helps anyone understand and share ideas, information, and processes with clarity. Lucidpress is a design and layout application that helps anyone create branded print and digital content. Both are utilized in over 175 countries by more than 10 million users, including Comcast, NASA, Netflix, Target and Xerox. Since the Utah-based companys founding in 2010, Lucid Software has grown in revenue by nearly 100 percent each year and has received numerous awards for its business and workplace culture.

About Clearvision

Clearvision is an innovative software services company with offices in Southampton and London UK, as well as Philadelphia, Dublin, and Bangalore. Since 2005, Clearvision has applied its expertise to support hundreds of leading organizations in managing transformation in their IT and across teams. As an enterprise-certified Atlassian Platinum Solution Partner, Clearvision offers consultancy services, technical implementation, hosting, training, and support packages for the Atlassian tools and leading software solutions. From collaborative discovery sessions to ongoing support, Clearvision empowers teams to reach their full potential.
CONFORM

EDETEK, Inc., a clinical technology company focused on delivering innovative solutions for clinical development reported today that it is launching two new additions of its award-winning cloud-based platform CONFORM: Information Hub and Clinical Data Lake. The company will be demonstrating new capabilities at the DIA 2017 Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL, June 19-22, 2017.

Modern clinical trials use variety of systems and devices to collect information. IoT patient wearable devices, ePRO smart phones, tablets, EHR systems, eConsent and IVR applications represent a subset of digital sources. Not only do these data suppliers need to communicate with the sponsors systems, but also often need to communicate with each other. The exponentially growing number of possible data integrations and communications is a burden on all participants. CONFORM Information Hub is our solution to greatly reduce the cost and time required to develop process orchestrations and application integrations. Once the systems and devices are registered and configured in our repository, they can participate in trials of many sponsors. Likewise, sponsors can choose registered digital providers based on specifics of the trial. CONFORM is fully event driven and processes any data loads in real time. The Information Hub also records all events it receives for auditing and aggregation. Data streams that require validation and transformation benefit from the existing CONFORM components, states Peter Smilansky, Senior Vice President of Product Strategy of EDETEK.

We are also addressing backbone information management and computational needs of clinical scientists with the addition of CONFORM Clinical Data Lake. The Data Lake is a globally distributed, controlled, and GxP compliant informational store of clinical structured and unstructured data. It is also a high-performance data processing and analytical computing environment. Our customers are no longer limited by legacy technologies that impose data structures that force complexities in upstream and downstream data conversions before the study data can be consumed and shared with partners and regulators. Metadata and event-driven production tasks as well as ad-hoc analytics for clinical data scientists can be completed in the Data Lake. This modern cloud system is configurable, infinitely scalable and highly durable. The information is available at anytime and anywhere in the world. All of CONFORM clinical applications will be upgraded to utilize the Data Lake repository in the near future.

Jian Chen, EDETEKs President and CEO, commented, We are excited to introduce Information Hub and Clinical Data Lake products to complement our popular CONFORM platform. These innovative components strengthen front and back-end capabilities of CONFORM bringing it in line with our strategic vision of offering a market leading all-encompassing and cost-effective clinical informatics platform.

Information Hub is available immediately. Clinical Data Lake is expected in Q4 2017.

EDETEK, Inc., a CDISC Registered Solutions Provider and AWS Life Sciences Partner is a clinical technology provider to biopharmaceutical and medical device companies.

For more information contact:

Jian Chen, President, Peter Smilansky, SVP Product Strategy, Mark Gee, Sr. Director Business Development at 609-720-0888 or visit us at http://www.edetek.com/conform
Executive Chairman of DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), Ahmed Bin Sulayem and ALROSA President Sergey Ivanov With a relationship that spans 15 years, DMCC is delighted to strengthen its collaboration with ALROSA, the worlds largest diamond mining company

Executive Chairman of DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre), Ahmed Bin Sulayem and ALROSA President Sergey Ivanov, have agreed to enhance diamond trade cooperation. The announcement further cements Dubais role as a leading global diamond center.

At a working meeting in ALROSA's headquarters in Moscow, recently appointed Sergey Ivanov discussed options for expanding ALROSA's trading activities at the Dubai Diamond Exchange, a DMCC entity, with Ahmed Bin Sulayem. The parties also agreed to enhance efforts to stem the flow undeclared synthetic diamonds entering the marketplace.

With a relationship that spans 15 years, DMCC is delighted to strengthen its collaboration with ALROSA, the worlds largest diamond mining company. As the fastest growing Free Zone and the third largest diamond trading the centre in the world, industry leaders like ALROSA leverage DMCC and Dubai as a trading hub, its world class infrastructure, access to finance, connectivity to world markets, including trade routes such as one belt, one road, said Ahmed Bin Sulayem. We look forward to hosting Mr. Ivanow, president of ALROSA, as our guest of honor at the upcoming Dubai Diamond Conference in October 2017, he added.

"Dubai is one of the world's leading diamond trading centers. In 2016 alone, ALROSA sold rough diamonds worth $259.5 million to companies - residents of the United Arab Emirates. ALROSA's affiliate Arcos East DMCC has been successfully operating at the Dubai Diamond Exchange, and we are certainly interested in wider cooperation with our partners from DMCC," noted Sergey Ivanov.

During the meeting, Mr. Ivanov also congratulated DMCC and the Dubai Diamond Exchange for its phenomenal journey over the last 14 years, growing from a regional market place to becoming the third largest diamond trading hub in the world, with 1000 active members in the Exchange.
Point Breeze presents MAGIC with the $10,000 award MAGICs innovative project will provide critical data to the medical community of Carroll County and were proud to support them, said Bernie McLaughlin, president and CEO of Point Breeze Credit Union.

Point Breeze Credit Union is proud to announce the winner of its Community Care Challenge. Carroll County non-profit MAGIC, has been awarded $10,000 to support its new Smart Home project. Smart Home will provide innovative, in-home healthcare monitoring, analysis and alert services, which will benefit residents in two homes. The project will provide improvements to the quality of life for Carroll County adults with disabilities.

MAGICs innovative project will provide critical data to the medical community of Carroll County and were proud to support them, said Bernie McLaughlin, president and CEO of Point Breeze Credit Union. Its crucial that we support forward thinking organizations and were looking forward to seeing the community impact.

The Smart Home project will have operational sensors collecting data as the first step toward projecting advanced clinical intelligence into the community to make measurable improvements in residents quality of life. Additional sensors will be incrementally deployed, along with more advanced analytics. As capabilities evolve, more connections to care providers and other locations will be made. The project is anticipated to launch Fall 2017.

Were thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in the Community Care Challenge and even more excited to be awarded the grand prize, said Jason Stambaugh, MAGIC. The $10,000 from Point Breeze will provide us with the resources we need to accelerate implementation of the technology in the Smart Home.

MAGIC along with four other finalists pitched their ideas to a panel of judges. The judges evaluated each pitch based on their potential community impact, creativity and feasibility. In addition to the grand prize winner, MAGIC, each of the other four finalists received $1,935, in honor of the year the credit union was founded, towards their idea. The additional finalists included the Boys & Girls Club of Westminster, Carroll Hospital Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Westminster and Ride with Pride.

To learn more about the Point Breeze Credit Union Carroll County Community Care Challenge, visit pbcu.com/communitycarechallenge.

About Point Breeze Credit Union

Point Breeze Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative serving more than 52,000 members and over 500 employer groups. The growing credit union, with total assets exceeding $760 million, currently has offices in Hunt Valley, Rosedale, Bel Air, Westminster and Owings Mills. Members also have access to over 5,000 shared branch locations across the United States. Individuals who work, worship or volunteer within 20 miles of a Point Breeze location are eligible to join. Point Breeze offers consumer and business checking, savings and loan services. Federally Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity. For more information, please visit http://www.pbcu.com.
Aeroflow Breastpumps announced their partnership with Molina Healthcare of South Carolina, a health care company that offers health insurance plans to families and individuals who qualify for government-sponsored programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Aeroflow Breastpumps will be the sole provider of breast pumps for Molina members effective July 2017.

We are delighted to partner with Molina Healthcare of South Carolina to provide new mothers with breast pumps, said Amanda Baethke, Strategic Partnerships Manager at Aeroflow. Our passion lies in supporting growing families during their breastfeeding journey and we are overjoyed at the prospect of helping Molina support healthy babies and mothers.

To further assist breastfeeding mothers, Molina offers car seats to ensure the babys safety when discharged from the hospital. The plan also provides resources and education to help mothers utilize all the benefits covered by their insurance. Molina Healthcare of South Carolinas Pregnancy Rewards program identifies pregnant women to encourage them to complete important preventive exams and screenings to achieve improved health outcomes for both the mothers and their new babies.

Molina is excited for the opportunity to partner with Aeroflow Breastpumps and further serve local parents in our community, said Thomas Lindquist, President of Molina Healthcare of South Carolina. Aeroflow shares our mission of providing quality care to those in need and improving the overall wellbeing of our members and their children.

Aeroflow Breastpumps will provide nursing mothers with a Tomy Quiet Expressions or Motif breast pump, which can be ordered by phone or online through the Aeroflow Breastpumps website. The breast pump will be delivered to Molina members at no charge. The Aeroflow Breastpumps team will also attend local baby showers and maternity related events hosted by Molina to answer questions and network with new moms to support them throughout their breastfeeding journey.

About Aeroflow Breastpumps

Aeroflow Breastpumps, a subsidiary of Aeroflow Healthcare, is a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider specializing in helping pregnant and nursing women qualify for their breast pump through their insurance and the Affordable Care Act. To learn more about Aeroflow Breastpumps and getting a breast pump through insurance, visit https://aeroflowbreastpumps.com.

About Molina Healthcare of South Carolina

Since 2013, Molina Healthcare of South Carolina has been providing government-funded care for low-income individuals. From the beginning and through today, their mission has been to bring high-quality and cost-effective health care to kids, adults, seniors, families and people with disabilities. As of March 2017, the company serves approximately 111,000 members through Medicaid and Medicare-Medicaid (Dual) health programs across South Carolina. Molinas state Provider Network includes 2,695 primary care physicians, 8,425 specialist physicians and 97 hospitals. Visit molinahealthcare.com to learn more.
Ball Janik LLP has been recognized in the Chambers USA 2017 guide in the areas of Real Estate, and Litigation: General Commercial. Two of the firms partners were recognized as leaders in their field in Oregon in the areas of Real Estate, Real Estate: Land Use/Zoning, and Litigation: General Commercial.

Chambers & Partners, publisher of the Chambers USA 2017 guide, is a directory of select U.S. lawyers and law firms.

Stephen Janik

Ball Janik is pleased to highlight that for the 10th consecutive year, Chambers USA has recognized our co-founder Steve Janik as an Oregon Real Estate Star Individual. This honor is designated for lawyers with exceptional recommendations in their field. Janik was also ranked in Real Estate: Zoning/Land Use, Oregon, Band 1. According to the Chambers USA guide, Stephen Janik enjoys an outstanding reputation in the market and is described by sources as the perfect negotiator and a tremendously good lawyer. Janiks extensive real estate practice includes advising on financing and land use issues related to big-ticket residential and commercial developments.

James McDermott

Jim McDermott was ranked in Litigation: General Commercial, Band 2, Oregon. The Chambers USA guide notes that The superb James McDermott is applauded by sources for being a strong advocate with excellent judgment. He offers expertise relating to securities litigation, construction disputes and insurance coverage claims, among other matters. McDermotts areas of litigation expertise include construction, securities and insurance liability.

About Ball Janik LLP

Ball Janik LLP is a Pacific Northwest law firm headquartered in Portland, Oregon, with an office in Orlando, Florida. For over thirty years, Ball Janik LLP has been providing outstanding legal services in the areas of bankruptcy and creditor rights, commercial litigation, construction and design, construction litigation, employment, real estate and land use, insurance recovery for policyholders, and securities litigation.

Ball Janik LLP represents large and small businesses; state, municipal and local governments; associations; schools and universities; and individuals. Ball Janik LLP provides clients an aggressive, skilled, team approach to solve problems and achieve results. Ball Janik LLP has been recognized by Chambers USA, U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, and Corporate International. Ball Janik LLPs success and integrity have repeatedly made it one of Oregons Most Admired Professional Firms, according to the Portland Business Journals survey results of CEOs throughout the region.

About Chambers USA

The Chambers Guides have been ranking law firms and lawyers since 1990, and now cover 185 jurisdictions. Based in their London office, over 170 full-time researchers conduct in-depth telephone interviews with lawyers and clients around the world.

The Chambers selection process consists of exhaustive interviews with clients, in-house law departments, and attorneys in private practice to receive feedback on firms and their individual attorneys. Lawyers are ranked according to their technical ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, and diligence. For more information, visit http://www.chambersandpartners.com.
Proposed Route 66 design in Texas its time that Texas also provide the iconic Route 66 plate

On November 11, 1926 the famous U.S. Route 66 was established running from Chicago, Illinois through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending at Santa Monica, California. Route 66 was one of the original highways with the U.S. Highway System covering a total of 2,448 miles. It was recognized in popular culture by both the hit song (Get Your Kicks On) Route 66 and the Route 66 television show in the 1960s.

The route is also known by Will Rogers highway, the Main Street of America or the legendary Mother Road. In 1985, it was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System and is known in many states today as Historic Route 66.

In Texas, US Route 66 extended across the Texas Panhandle running east-west from Texola, Oklahoma to the stateline-straddling Glenrio, sharing New Mexico and Texas roots. Amarillo is the only major city on the Texas portion of US 66.

Small Texas towns Glenrio, Adrian, Vega, Conway, Groom, Jericho, Alanreed, McLean and Shamrock all once hosted the flow of travelers on the Mother Road as it made its way across the Panhandle. Each still retains certain characteristics of that past. Adrian is the midpoint of Route 66, an equal 1,139 miles towards either the LA or Chicago ends. Shamrock showcases the iconic Conoco Tower Station. Conway has a long seven-mile preserved stretch of still drivable original road. Vega has a surviving court motel still in pristine condition. And Glenrio an entire historic district full of original structures. All are worthy reminders of the glorious past of Route 66.

Several states including Illinois, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona have already launched dedicated Route 66 plate designs in their respective markets. Now Texas via the states license plate vendor My Plates, is considering the addition of a Route 66 design.

This is such an iconic route in the U.S, so its time that Texas also provide a Route 66 plate as an opportunity for all those travelers, adventurers, desperados and dreamers who have had the chance to experience this historic route, or have been impacted by its lore, to proudly show their support on their bumpers said Steve Farrar, President of My Plates.

For My Plates to proceed with this design, they wish to reach at least 300 people prepared to register their interest in this design, which is done at http://www.myplates.com/register/route66. Following that, My Plates will then submit a formal application to the TxDMV and if approved, My Plates will then need to achieve 200 pre-orders before the plate can move to production and manufacture.

If approved, the plate will cost $50 for an annual term, background only, or $175.00 for a five-year term (equates to $33 a year). My Plates will dedicate a portion of the proceeds, 10% to the Old Route 66 Association of Texas Fund dedicated to promoting this important part of Texas History.

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My Plates designs and markets new specialty license plates as a vendor for the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Texans have bought more than 300,000 My Plates since November 2009, putting more than $52M in the state general revenue fund. My Plates goal is to create a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship designed to maximize revenues for the state through the sale of My Plates specialty plates. http://www.myplates.com.

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) serves protects and advances the citizens and industries in the state with quality motor vehicle related services. For every $1 it spends, the TxDMV returns $11 to the state. The agency currently registers 24 million vehicles; issues more than 7 million vehicle titles; licenses more than 38,000 motor vehicle dealers and distributors; credentials nearly 60,000 motor carriers; issues more than 800,000 oversize/overweight permits; investigates more than 15,000 complaints against dealers and motor carriers; and awards grants to law enforcement agencies to reduce vehicle burglaries and thefts. Learn more at http://www.TxDMV.gov.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information, contact Steve Farrar at (512) 633-7978 or steve(at)myplates(dot)com

The hero image of the proposed Route 66 plate can be safely downloaded at the following link or please email steve(at)myplates(dot)com for a jpeg to be emailed:

https://ce9a9387e1bc258c3cfa-af7906f4e771b24864bbfa3048e4a635.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/Route66_ROUTE66.jpg
Our news section is a convenient way for existing cosmetic surgery patients, as well as those curious about having a procedure, to gain access to the latest information... - Cosmetic Town Senior Editor

Cosmetic Town, an online plastic surgery information community, announces a complete overhaul of its database of news and information articles related to cosmetic surgery. The reorganization of their news categories includes articles dating back to 2014.

When asked about the updated news categories, the senior editor of Cosmetic Town said, The idea behind revising and updating our news articles was to make finding the information they desire easier for our readers. The news is now organized into five main sections and each category is designed to focus on a specific area related to cosmetic surgery.

According to the senior editor, the categories include patient guides, statistics and trends, techniques and devices, celebrity news and Cosmetic Town tips. The patient guides include all of our articles about finding the right doctor for a procedure as well as the qualities that make a person an ideal candidate for certain cosmetic surgeries. Statistics and trends cover the latest medical trends in cosmetic surgery while techniques and devices spotlight the medical devices that power the cosmetic surgery industry. Cosmetic Town tips are fun how to articles with colorful infographics and celebrity news shines a light on the latest celebrity plastic surgery adventures.

The Cosmetic Town editorial team plans to add to its database of articles throughout 2017. The world of cosmetic surgery is filled with breaking news and medical updates on a daily basis. The need to keep our readers on top of the latest trends is important to our team of writers, stated the senior editor. He went on to say, Our news section is a convenient way for existing cosmetic surgery patients, as well as those curious about having a procedure, to gain access to the latest information so they can make an informed decision before undergoing surgery.

About Cosmetic Town

Cosmetic Town is an online cosmetic medicine publication that also features doctors who were endorsed and highly recommended by their peers. This reliable and streamlined database allows users to easily navigate the website and access the information they need with just the click of a button. Users can also stay informed and get the latest news on plastic surgery by reading the regularly updated news section. Visiting the forum page is another way for users to stay engaged and keep each other up to date.
Alyssa Soto Brody

Haute Residence welcomes New York-based realtor Alyssa Soto Brody to its exclusive network of real estate leaders.

Leading the Alyssa Soto Brody Team at the tech-savvy Compass real estate agency, Brody has earned praise for her realtor acumen. As a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson, often featured in various media publications, Brody is a trusted partner for sellers, buyers and investors alike.

Brodys career flourishes on her various capabilities. A real estate attorney, who graduated with honors from New York Law School, Brody possesses legal expertise that makes her an invaluable asset in clinching deals. Experienced in development and marketing, she conceives creative selling strategies and supports them with data to reap success. As a result, Brody has reaped multiple sales records.

Accompanying Brodys noted professionalism is her amiable personality. Intelligent, nimble and trustworthy, she thrives on connecting with people and turning their real estate dreams a reality.

About Haute Residence:

Designed as a partnership-driven luxury real estate portal, Haute Residence connects its affluent readers with top real estate professionals, while offering the latest in real estate news, showcasing the worlds most extraordinary residences on the market and sharing expert advice from its knowledgeable and experienced real estate partners.

The invitation-only luxury real estate network, which partners with just one agent in every market, unites a distinguished collective of leading real estate agents and brokers and highlights the most extravagant properties in leading markets around the globe for affluent

buyers, sellers, and real estate enthusiasts.

HauteResidence.com has grown to be the number one news source for million-dollar listings, high-end residential developments, celebrity real estate, and more.

Access all of this information and more by visiting: http://www.hauteresidence.com
2017 NAHREP Top 250 Latino Agents

The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), in association with Zillow, released its sixth annual Top 250 real estate agents report recognizing exceptional Latino real estate agents from around the country. With agents hailing from 30 states and Puerto Rico, with aggregate sales of over $6 billion, this years report includes a ranking of the top agents by transactions along with supplemental rankings of top millennial agents, top individual agents, and top agents in major market regions including the Northeast, South, West, Midwest, California, and Texas.

"Last year Hispanics accounted for nearly 75 percent of the growth in U.S. homeownership. Those gains are largely due to individuals like the top producers on our list who continue to drive Hispanic homeownership in their local markets," said Leo Pareja, NAHREP President, "They are the gateway to the demographic changes in the housing market and represent the vitality of our industry today and in the future."

NAHREPs Top 250 Latino Agents report can be found at http://nahrep.org/top250/agent. The report includes profiles of several notable agents and a number of data points about the honorees.

NAHREP congratulates the following Top 10 Latino Agents for 2017 by transactions:

1. Mark Dimas, Mark Dimas Properties, TX

2. Marty Rodriguez, CENTURY 21 Marty Rodriguez, CA

3. Claudia Restrepo, The Legacy Group, Keller Williams, WA

4. William Bustos, Keller Williams Realty Utah Realtors - William Bustos Group, UT

5. Marshall Carrasco, Marshall Realty, NV

6. Cristina Edelstein, RE/MAX Results, MN

7. Shelly Salas, The Salas Team Realtors, TX

8. Leo Pareja, Keller Williams Realty - Leo Pareja Team, VA

9. Mario Negron, RE/MAX Pioneers, TX

10. Christine Delgado, Delgado Home Team at Keller Williams, FL

Submissions for the Top 250 were received from numerous markets across the country, with San Antonio, Chicago and El Paso leading the way as the most represented cities on the list. The Top 250 agents were selected based on their total transactions and total volume for 2016, and verified through NAHREP and their respective brokerages.

Some of the fastest Hispanic population growth in recent years has taken place in the South and other non-traditional Hispanic markets. This years list reflects an increase in agents from burgeoning Hispanic regions including Tennessee, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina.

For the third consecutive year, RE/MAX was the most highly represented brand, with over 60 agents on the list. A majority of the agents on the list are within the 34-45 age bracket, as compared to the typical Realtor age of 57. At 93 percent, an overwhelming majority of 2017 honorees are bilingual.

About NAHREP: The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, a nonprofit 501(c) 6 trade association, is dedicated to advancing sustainable homeownership among Latinos by educating and empowering the real estate professionals who serve them. NAHREP is the premier trade organization for Hispanics and has more than 26,000 members in 48 states and 50 affiliate chapters.

Press Contacts:

Jordan Grant, NAHREP, (619) 719-4814, jgrant(at)nahrep(dot)org
Attorney Celestine Dotson Past News Releases RSS Law Office of Celestine Dotson...

Criminal defense attorney Celestine Dotson, founder of the Law Office of Celestine Dotson, recently won a motion to suppress (Case No. 15-CF-1880 filed in the Circuit Court for the Third Judicial Circuit, Madison County, IL) for a defendant that was charged with murder. The accused was 16 years old when he first got charged with this murder, and it was found that his confession was wrongly obtained. Dotson filed a motion to suppress to have the wrongly obtained confession taken out of the case.

Court documents state the accused, on the night of the incident, was pulled from his bed as a suspect because the murder happened in the vicinity of his home, which is a subsidized housing project. The defendant didnt have a criminal record, and allegedly there was no evidence linking him to the incident.

According to court documents, the defendant, during his second and third interviews about the incident, clearly and unequivocally asserted his right to remain silent by stating I dont want to talk no more and I dont wanna talk no more because I dont know, respectively, which must be scrupulously honored. For that reason, court documents further state, that portion of his second and third interviews is suppressed and the State will not be permitted to use any of the suppressed portions during its case-in-chief.

The court also found that the detectives created a coercive environment which ultimately overcame the will of the defendant, and repeated violations of his Miranda rights ultimately resulted in a coerced confession at the end of interview three. Court documents further allege the detectives did this by threatening the arrest of the defendants younger brother, unless the defendant told them what happened.

About the Law Office of Celestine Dotson, LLC

The Law Office of Celestine Dotson focuses on criminal defense, personal injury, workers compensation, civil rights and post-conviction litigation. For more information, please call (314) 454-6543. The law office is located at 300 N. Tucker Blvd., Suite 301, St. Louis, MO 63101.

About the NALA

The NALA offers small and medium-sized businesses effective ways to reach customers through new media. As a single-agency source, the NALA helps businesses flourish in their local community. The NALAs mission is to promote a business relevant and newsworthy events and achievements, both online and through traditional media. For media inquiries, please call 805.650.6121, ext. 361.
Now software vendors can offer a seamless integration on multiple device lines while staying ahead of the curve when it comes to data security  its the perfect recipe for high merchant satisfaction and retention.

Today, Clearent is expanding its integrated payments solution for Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) by offering Quick Chip technology for EMV on PAX devices. Last month, Clearent announced their Quick Chip technology for ISVs on Dejavoos line of POS terminals. Now, with more payment device options, ISVs can give their merchants greater flexibility when integrating payments. ISVs can offer their merchants a wide range of PAX devices, including the new PX series. These sleek terminals feature large color displays so merchants can showcase advertising campaigns while accepting a wide variety of payment types. Additionally, software vendors can offer retail and restaurant merchants PAX terminals that cater specifically to their industry with features like tokenization, tip at sale, tip adjust, sales tax and level II data.

Clearents semi-integrated EMV solution provides ISVs and developers with a turnkey payment integration that uses the latest security standards and technology, including Quick Chip. Through a simple integration, they get access to a scalable platform without having to deal with PCI compliance and EMV network certifications, which can be time-consuming and expensive. On top of that, merchants get a seamless payment experience in-store, online, and on-the-go. This gives software vendors time to focus on whats most important: creating longer-lasting, profitable relationships and evolving their core product.

Clearents Quick Chip technology with PAXs suite of terminals reduces chip card transaction times from 15 seconds to 2 seconds, allowing merchants to deliver faster check outs for their customers. It gives the merchant peace-of-mind knowing that their payments software vendor takes security seriously and will go the extra mile to ensure that they are preventing fraudulent transactions from occurring, said Andy Chau, CEO and president of PAX Technology, Inc. Quick Chip coupled with PAXs widely popular semi-integrated solution allows any software vendor and merchant to support EMV Quick Chip easily.

In addition to offering Quick Chip, the PAX payment devices will also feature Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE), which protects sensitive card data by keeping it encrypted as it moves through the payment system. This makes the data worthless if there is a breach, protecting merchants and their customers. Now software vendors can offer a seamless integration on multiple device lines while staying ahead of the curve when it comes to data security  its the perfect recipe for high merchant satisfaction and retention, said Dan Geraty, founder and CEO of Clearent.

Software vendors can learn more about Clearents integrated payments solutions by visiting clearent.com/integrated-software/ or they can call Matthew Stanley on our ISV team directly at 919.916.5809.

About Clearent

Clearent is a full-service, fully integrated payment processor and merchant services provider. Its commitment to honesty and transparency has made it one of the most trusted companies in the payments industry. Clearent has more than 300 employees, 45,000 merchants, and $14 billion in processing volume. Its headquarters are in St. Louis, Missouri and it has offices in West Palm Beach, Florida and Louisville, Kentucky. From traditional point-of-sale terminals, mobile solutions, and tablet-based systems to a custom-built virtual terminal, eCommerce plug-ins, and hosted payments, Clearent can help small business owners securely accept payments just about anywhere. The companys proprietary processing system gives it more flexibility to deliver products that truly help its sales teams and partners stand out from the competition and sign more deals. It also helps the company deliver flexible pricing options, accurate, on-time residuals, and a suite of graphical portfolio management tools that are updated daily. Clearents Next Day Funding service is also unique because of its 11:00 p.m. Eastern cut-off time, which is one of the latest in the industry. The company has consistently been named to several prestigious lists year after year, such as the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies, The Nilson Reports list of top U.S. acquirers, The St. Louis Post-Dispatch Top Workplaces award, and the St. Louis Business Journals list of fastest growing private companies. Clearents CEO Dan Geraty also recently received the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2017 Award in the Central Midwest. To learn more, visit clearent.com/integrated-software/ or call 866.205.4721.
The international law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP is supporting the Biennial of the Americas, a week-long event to take place in Denver Sept. 12-16, 2017, with a reception on June 28, 2017 at its Mexico City office.

"We are very proud Greenberg Traurig has a seat at the table for this very important event with one of Colorados top trading partners," said Tyler Coombe, a shareholder in the White Collar Defense & Special Investigations group in the Denver office. "The firms Denver office has built strong relationships with Mexico and those who were involved in previous Biennial events."

Coombe, who acts as an ambassador to the Biennial of the Americas, was instrumental in planning the event alongside the attorneys in Greenberg Traurigs Mexico City office. The goal of the reception is to inspire individuals from the business community in Mexico to participate as delegates during the September event in Denver.

The Biennial of the Americas was established in 2010 by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper while he was Mayor of Denver. This week-long festival of ideas, arts, business, and culture takes place in Denver every two years, and is the most important gathering of top elected officials, business, non-governmental organizations (NGO), and cultural leaders focused on the Western hemisphere.

The goal of Biennial of the Americas is to bring together the most innovative leaders from across the Americas for activities and events intended to accelerate and foster more substantive political, commercial, and cultural exchange.

Business leaders from all parts of Mexico are being invited to the kick-off celebration on June 28, 2017, with festivities starting at 7:30 p.m. at Greenberg Traurigs Mexico City office. Guests will have an opportunity to learn about the Biennial experience and possibly join the official Mexico delegation to the Biennials main event in Denver.

About Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GTLaw) has more than 2,000 attorneys in 38 offices in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East and is celebrating its 50th anniversary. One firm worldwide, GTLaw has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, was named the largest firm in the U.S. by Law360 in 2017, and among the Top 20 on the 2016 Am Law Global 100. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law.
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According to London's Metropolitan Police, one person has been arrested following the incident, which occurred around 12:15 a.m. local time Monday on Seven Sisters Road, near Finsbury Park station in the northern part of the city.

At least three people are "seriously injured," according to the BBC. The Sun

Few details of the attack have been revealed, and the identity of the suspect is still unknown. Authorities said it was too early to tell whether the incident was an act of terrorism.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan also used cautious language, describing the collision as "a major incident" in a post on Twitter.

British Prime Minister Theresa May has described it as a terrible incident.

All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene, she said.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he was totally shocked by the incident.

Ive been in touch with the mosques, police and Islington council regarding the incident, he said.

My thoughts are with those and the community affected by this awful event.

Police have sealed off adjacent streets, and London Ambulance Service said it has sent "a number of resources" to the scene.

The area was brimming with Muslim worshippers who had finished performing Tarawih, late-night prayers that are recited during the fasting month of Ramadan. The Muslim Council of Britain said its "prayers were with the victims."

We are working closely with other members of the emergency services at the scene, the ambulance service said.

Our priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure those in the most need are treated first and taken to hospital."

Monday's incident was the third since March involving a vehicle running into pedestrians in London. In March, a lone motorist mowed down dozens of pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing five, before exiting his vehicle and fatally stabbing a police officer.

Earlier this month, several people were arrested for an attack in which a van drove into pedestrians on London Bridge before assailants exited the vehicle and began stabbing passersby at Borough Market. Eight people died in the attack.

The UK is also reeling from a suicide bombing at Manchester Arena last month in which 22 people died and 119 were injured.
LONDON  A 47-year-old man is being held on terrorism offences after the van he was driving ploughed into pedestrians near Finsbury Park Mosque in North London early Monday morning, killing one person and injuring 10.

A white van, rented from a Welsh-based company, went through a bus lane, mounted the pavement, and hit a group of worshippers leaving one of Londons biggest mosques just after midnight. The Muslim Council of Britain said the van's driver intentionally ran over worshippers who were breaking Ramadan fast.

Security Minister Ben Wallace told Sky News that the arrested suspect was not known to security services, but that he "clearly took advantage of a simple weapon, a vehicle, to make an attack on people going about their business."

British Prime Minister Theresa May, who chaired an emergency meeting later on Monday, said the attack "targeted the ordinary and the innocent" in a televised speech at 10 Downing Street.

"Today we come together as we have done before to condemn this act and state an act of hatred of this kind will never succeed in dividing us. Like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same goal: to drive us apart. We will not let this happen."

She added that extra police forces have already been deployed on the streets of London.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khah called the incident a "deliberate attack on innocent Londoners" that "appears to be an attack on a particular community." Like

Khan later visited the scene in North London and gave a statement urging the government not to cut spending on the Met Police Service:

Khans warning about police cuts follows similar pleas from Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and both high-ranking and former high-ranking police officers in the final weeks of the election campaign.

How the attack unfolded

Police responded to a number of calls to Seven Sisters Road Road shortly after midnight. The driver of a white van who rammed into pedestrians was arrested on suspicion of murder, police said in a statement.

A video of the arrest, which showed police loading the suspect into a police van while crowds shouted, quickly circulated online.

Toufik Kacimi, the CEO of the Muslim Welfare Council, called for "calm" and said that the police and Jeremy Corbyn, who is the MP for the constituency, had been very helpful.

The "guy did what he did deliberately and this is not a mental-health issue," Kacimi told Sky News, after an eyewitness told him that the attacker said "I did my bit."

The van-hire company in South Wales where the attacker rented the van, Pontyclun Van Hire group, said in a statement that they were "shocked" and "saddened" by the incident and were cooperating fully with police.

"We will not be making any further statement because of the ongoing police investigation but will continue to assist the police in any way we can," it added.

After the attack, men prayed on the pavement near the mosque in Finsbury Park.

There were a number of false reports immediately after the attack, including claims that there was more than one attacker, there were knives involved, and that emergency services took more than an hour to arrive.

One visibly shocked Muslim man in his mid-30s, who declined to be named, told Business Insider's senior reporter Rob Price that he was angry with police because they had allegedly taken over 30 minutes to arrive.

In a Monday-morning press conference, deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu confirmed that "no one else was in the van" and said that no knives were involved. He said emergency services were at the scene within 10 minutes.

As Britons were waking up to the news, the UK's Home Secretary Amber Rudd confirmed the attack was being investigated by the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command.

Alex Spurgeon, a Finsbury Park resident, told Price that he "heard a helicopter very low overhead and a lot of sirens." The police were outside his front door the next morning, blocking access to Seven Sisters Road.

Spurgeon, who was at Muslim Welfare House for the Great Get Together on Saturday, said it was awful that "something this could happen so soon after such a positive community meeting."

Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the Labour Party and the MP for the constituency where the mosque is, visited the scene on Monday.

"As the local MP, I have met with Muslim community leaders at the Muslim Welfare House alongside Islington Council Leader Richard Watts, the council's Chief Executive Lesley Seary and the Metropolitan Police," Corbyn said in an emailed statement. "I call on everyone to stand together against those who seek to divide us."

US President Donald Trump had yet to comment on the attack by evening local time. His press secretary, Sean Spicer, said that he had been made aware of the attacks and was receiving constant updates.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families  and we've made it very clear to our British allies that we stand ready to provide any support or assistance that they may need."

The aftermath

Hundreds of locals came out for vigil organised by Londonat the Finsbury Park Mosque Monday evening.

Earlier, people paid their respects by laying flowers outside the mosque.

Finsbury Park is a key transportation hub for the tube, buses, and trains. Transport for London left the following sign outside the tube station:

The Muslim Association of Britain called on politicians to treat this incident "no less than a terrorist attack" and for the government to do more to prevent hate crimes.

"We call on the government to do more to tackle this hateful evil ideology which has spread over these past years and resulted in an increase of Islamophobic attacks and division of our society, as well as spreading of hate," the association said in a statement.

The associations president, Omer El-Hamdoon, called on all Muslims to be "extra vigilant following these hateful Islamophobic attacks."

David Curtis, 57, a practising Jew living in Finchley, North London, heard about the attack on the news this morning and came after synagogue. He told Price: "It just feels it's exactly what the terrorists have been trying to achieve ... They seek to divide communities.

He quoted Jo Cox, the MP who was murdered last year by a right-wing extremist, who said: "There's more that unites us than divides us."
LONDON  Prime Minister Theresa May has denounced the attack on Finsbury Park Mosque an act of Islamophobic terrorism "every bit as sickening" as other attacks against Britain in recent months.

Speaking at Number 10 Downing Street on Monday morning, May said the attack in north London in the early hours of this morning was against "ordinary and innocent" British muslims.

"It was an attack that targeted the ordinary and the innocent," the prime minister said.

"Today we come together as we have done before to condemn this act and state an act of hatred of this kind will never succeed in dividing us.

"Like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same goal: to drive us apart. We will not let this happen.

"There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in this country," May added. "That's extremism of any kind  including Islamaphobia".

The prime minister was speaking in Westminster after a man who is yet to be named drove a white van into a group of worshippers exiting Finsbury Park Mosque, north London in the early hours of Monday morning.

The attack has killed one man and injured 10 others, so far. A 48-year-old man has been arrested. The police confirmed at 6:53 a.m. BST (1:53 a.m. ET) that they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the attack.

May confirmed that a white man, aged 48, was behind the attack, and was detained by members of the public at the scene in north London before being arrested by police. He can not yet be named for legal reasons.

She added that extra police forces have already been deployed on the streets of London, while security services will consider giving additional security to mosques in London and nationwide.

Here is May's speech in full:

This morning, our country woke to news of another terrorist attack on the streets of our capital city: the second this month and every bit as sickening as those which have come before.

It was an attack that once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives  this time British Muslims as they left a Mosque having broken their fast and prayed together at this sacred time of year.

Today we come together - as we have done before  to condemn this act and to state once again that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed.

The Governments Emergency Committee, COBRA, has just met and I can set out what we know about what happened, and the steps that we are taking to respond.

Just after twenty-past , the Metropolitan Police received reports that a van had been driven into a crowd of people on Seven Sisters Road in Finsbury Park.

Officers were in the immediate vicinity as the attack unfolded and responded .

Police declared it a terrorist incident .

One man was pronounced dead at the scene; eight injured were taken to three separate hospitals; while two were treated at the scene for more minor injuries.

The driver of the van - a white man aged 48 - was bravely detained by members of the public at the scene and then arrested by police.

The early assessment by the police is that the attacker acted alone.

Our thoughts and prayers this morning are with the family and friends of the man who died and those who were injured.

On behalf of the people of London  and the whole country  I want to thank the police and the emergency services once again for responding as they always do with great professionalism and courage.

Extra police resources have already been deployed to reassure communities, and the police will continue to assess the security needs of Mosques and provide any additional resources needed, especially during this final week before Eid Al-Fitr, a particularly important time for the whole Muslim community.

This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship. And like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal.

It seeks to drive us apart; and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship that we share in this country.

We will not let this happen.

When I stood here for the first time as Prime Minister last Summer I spoke about our precious belief in the Union  not just the bond between the four nations of the United Kingdom  but the bond between all our citizens, every one of us, whoever we are and wherever we are from.

At the heart of that bond is a belief in the fundamental freedoms and liberties that we all cherish; the freedom of speech; the freedom to live how we choose and yes, the freedom to practice religion in peace.

This morning we have seen a sickening attempt to destroy those freedoms; and to break those bonds of citizenship that define our United Kingdom.

It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms; and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible.

As I said here two weeks ago, there has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years  and that means extremism of any kind, including Islamophobia.

That is why this Government will act to stamp out extremist and hateful ideology  both across society and on the internet, so it is denied a safe space to grow.

It is why we will be reviewing our Counter-Terrorism strategy and ensuring that police and security services have the powers they need.

And it is why we will establish a new Commission for Countering Extremism as a statutory body to help fight hatred and extremism in the same way as we have fought racism  because this extremism is every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life and we will stop at nothing to defeat it.

Todays attack falls at a difficult time in the life of this city, following on from the attack on London Bridge two weeks ago  and of course the unimaginable tragedy of Grenfell Tower last week, on which I will chair another meeting of Ministers and officials later today.

But what we have seen throughout  whether in the heroism of the ordinary citizens who fought off the attackers at London Bridge; the unbreakable resolve of the residents in Kensington; or this morning the spirit of the community that apprehended this attacker  is that this is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people.

It is home to a multitude of communities that together make London one of the greatest cities on earth.

Diverse, welcoming, vibrant, compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate.

These are the values that define this city.

These are the values that define this country.

These are the values that this government will uphold.
In an interview on "Meet The Press," Jay Sekulow repeatedly denied that Trump had become a subject of the FBI's investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, even when host Chuck Todd pointed out that Trump himself in a tweet last week seemed to confirm that he was a target of the investigation.

"Then why did he say he was?" Todd asked. "I mean, was this just mistweeted? Are we not to take him at his word?"

Sekulow insisted that Todd was "reading more to the tweet than what's there."

"The president's tweet was in response to the Washington Post story," Sekulow replied. "The Washington Post issued a story that had five anonymous sources, which they never identified what agencies those sources originated out of. The response from the president, using social media, was about that story. But let me be very clear here, as it has been since the beginning: The president is not and has not been under investigation for obstruction."

Sekulow insisted that Trump fired Comey at the recommendation of the deputy attorney general. Todd, however, noted that Trump himself told NBC anchor Lester Holt he planned on firing Comey regardless of recommendations from the deputy attorney general and attorney general. Comey was leading the FBI's Russia investigation at the time of his firing, which ultimately led Robert Mueller to be named special counsel to lead the inquiry.

"The question is going to be, though, what was the reason behind the firing?" Todd asked. "Was the reason having to do with his handling of the Russia investigation, or was it having to do with his handling of the Clinton email investigation? The reason I ask you this is the memo that was written, the rationale by the deputy attorney general, did not discuss Russia. The president, in his interview with my colleague Lester Holt, said it was about Russia. Which is it?"

Sekulow insisted that Trump fired Comey over his handling of the FBI's investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server when she was secretary of state  for which she was not charged with wrongdoing  and pointed out that Trump told Holt that firing Comey would most likely lengthen the Russia investigation.

"He was fully aware that if in fact he took this action, he would see a lengthening or could see a lengthening of the process," Sekulow said. "So you cannot view this, in my mind, Chuck, or in any reasonable person's mind, especially someone that's representing the president of the United States, these things in a vacuum. There's multiple factors that come into exist. But let me tell you the factor that came into exist here. The president made the determination to remove the director of the FBI after consultation with others. And that determination is protected by the Constitution."

Todd continued to push Sekulow, asking why Trump seemed obsessed with the investigation even though he insisted he was innocent.

"Why does the president seem, act as if he is so concerned about this investigation if he did nothing wrong?" Todd said. "If this investigation is going to find  and he knows he did nothing wrong, then he shouldn't be afraid of this investigation. It's being led by professionals, a guy like Robert Mueller who is not a political guy  you know he's not a partisan guy. I'm just curious, why doesn't the president embrace this investigation if he's innocent?"

"Because every day, The Washington Post and The New York Times are utilizing supposed leaked information about supposed investigations of the president of the United States," Sekulow replied. "So his legal team and the president responds."

Todd was one of many cable-news personalities who clashed with Trump's personal attorney over his insistence that The Washington Post's report was inaccurate. Sekulow made similar claims on CNN, Fox News, and CBS News.

CNN's Jake Tapper similarly pressed Sekulow on Sunday, noting the president's apparent confirmation of the investigation.

"With all due respect, the president said 'I am being investigated' in a tweet, and people take his word on that," Tapper said. "But you're his attorney. You're saying that the president, when he said that, was not accurate."
Warmbier had reportedly been in a coma for a year and had been in a state of "unresponsive wakefulness," his doctors said.

For the time being, it is unclear what truly happened during the year Warmbier spent in North Korea  despite North Korea's account that Warmbier contracted botulism and went into a coma after taking a pill to help him sleep.

"When Otto returned to Cincinnati ... he was unable to speak, unable to see and unable to react to verbal commands," read a statement the Warmbier family released on Monday. "Although we would never hear his voice again, within a day the countenance of his face changed  he was at peace."

"He was home and we believe he could sense that," the statement continued.

Here is what we know about the 22-year-old who spent more than a year imprisoned in North Korea:

During a study-abroad trip to Hong Kong, Otto Warmbier decided to embark on a five-day tour of North Korea on January 2016. He was convicted of stealing a propaganda poster after a one-day trial in court.

Raised in Ohio, Warmbier graduated from high school in 2013 as class salutatorian. He eventually enrolled at the University of Virginia, studying economics and global sustainability.

Source:

At the University of Virginia, Warmbier was named an Echols Scholar, an honor awarded to the top 7% of first-year students, according to his LinkedIn page. He also served as alumni chair for the Theta Chi fraternity.

Source:

After being arrested and convicted, Warmbier was sentenced 15 years of hard labor. In an emotional statement, he said that he was subjected to the country's "fair and square legal procedures." It has yet to be determined if he was coerced by North Korean authorities or if he had delivered a genuine statement.

Source:

According to reports, Warmbier had been in a coma for over a year and needed "proper medical care." A senior US official also said that the government received reports that Warmbier had been repeatedly beaten during his imprisonment.

Source:

Warmbier's family said they received a letter dated March 2, 2016  the only correspondence with their son during his 18-month imprisonment. "We want the world to know how we and our son have been brutalized and terrorized by the pariah regime," said parents Fred and Cindy Warmbier in a statement.

Source: ,

After an emergency US-North Korea meeting in New York, plans for Warmbier's return were finalized. President Donald Trump delegated a State Department envoy and medical personnel to bring Warmbier home.

Source:

North Korean officials maintain they had footage of Warmbier stealing a propaganda poster, and called his act "hostile." Officials also claim that Warmbier had acted under the direction of a church in Ohio  which they allege operates under the ruse of a secret university organization and the CIA.

Source:
The delegation, led by the Dutch Top sector on horticulture, is also to establish a network with government, knowledge institutes and the private sector.

The visit will build ties with the government and learn about the private sector and other institutions that exist in the country.

Speaking at the third GhanaVeg Fruit and Vegetable Fair in Accra, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Robert Ahomka-Lindsey appreciating the efforts of the Netherlands government in promoting the production and consumption of vegetables in the country.

READ ALSO: We will help improve small businesses in Ghana  EUWe will help improve small businesses in Ghana  EU

GhanaVeg is an initiative supported by the Netherlands Embassy to improve productivity in the vegetable sector, facilitate more efficient markets, and improve the business climate and further professionalise the value chain for vegetable production and consumption in Africa.

He said government would continue to revamp the EXIM Bank to grow and develop businesses to improve on the economy.

The Minister also assured that the EXIM bank would be given the full support of government to further the course of development in the country.

He further lamented on the poor packaging of Ghanaian products and the challenge it poses to small and medium enterprises in the international market.

He pledged that government would support businesses to overcome this hurdle. Dr. Ahomka-Linsey was confident that exported vegetables would meeting EU requirements by September this year.

READ ALSO: Scottish Development International Trade Mission to visit Ghana

Mr Ron Strikker, the Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana was enthused with the growth of the horticulture and hoped for better relationships between both countries in the near future.

Trade delegation exemplifies the Netherlands governments focus on promoting agriculture through private sector investments, gradually moving from aid to trade. The collaboration between both countries clearly resonated with the motto of Holland and Ghana growing together he added.

The ambassador lauded the efforts of GhanaVeg team for putting the fair together to promote the local vegetable growers.

The mission from the Netherlands is made up of a varied group of field and technology experts from the horticultural sector in the country.
The student, Justice Nana Wusu Dankwa was allegedly sent to the hospital Wednesday morning by the Golden Tulip shuttle driver after complaining of chest pains.

He was said to have asked for oxygen from the nurses at the medical emergency unit right after he arrived at the hospital.

But sources told Accra-based Starr FM that the patient was left unattended to for close to 10 minutes.

He was later given the oxygen mask of another patient. He, however, died four minutes later after he was given oxygen.

A cousin of the deceased, Nana Kwakyewa Sarpong has blamed hospital authorities for Dankwas death.

I can confidently say that they were negligent in the sense that if they had oxygen on standby, I dont think that they would have denied him oxygen. I would blame the hospital and the nurses and doctors on duty, they denied him of oxygen, meaning they were negligentI know they would deny itbut they need to be responsible for their actions, he told Accra-based Starr FM.
The theme for the festival "African Music & Fashion" features performances from the likes of Rocky Dawuni, Otieno Terry, Dynamq, Meklit Hadero, Chimurenga Renaissance, and other surprising guests and a runway fashion show all on one big stage.

By showcasing African music and fashion in a different light, Madaraka hopes to change the narrative of stereotypes held on these topics. Its going to be a night of music and purpose.
READ ALSO: Postmortem shows Major Mahama was shot severallyI have a sawmill, so, he had been coming to work there. This boy was there and a friend told him that since he doesnt have a place to sleep he should tell me about so I give him that plot of land to mount a wooden structure to live there. At that time, he had a pregnant girlfriend and that made me give him the land, he said.

He added that, in January 2017, Kwame said he asked Martin to vacate the plot since he wanted to develop the land, but Martin refused, threatening to kill him.

I didnt rent it to him, but I started hearing rumors that he wanted to kill me to take over the land, and, so, I decided to take action. So, last Friday, we came here to move him out and that was when we saw the coffins. He disclosed.

READ ALSO: This photo of Barbara Mahama smiling in a recent photo will warm your heart

Kwame added that he and his family decided to put up a wall around the plot to save it from encroachment, while also deciding to uproot a Neem tree that was on the land.

But when the tree was uprooted, Kwame and his family realized that a coffin full of human bones had been buried on the property.

There is a Neem tree too near the structure. I ordered that they should uproot it. We then saw a box containing some funny things  knife, red armbands, and bones I believe are human.
This was contained in a statement issued by the President of GJA Affail Monney.

READ ALSO: Residents find coffin with human remains

An apology from the Judicial Service and a full assurance that reporters will no more experience any unnecessary hindrance and indignity in the coverage of the case, he added.

On Thursday, after the two suspects who were accused of killing former MP for Abuakwa North, JB Danquah, the judge ordered police officers stationed within the courtroom to prevent all journalists from entering.

Affail Monney earlier explained that the magistrate said she only ordered a cameraman who was allegedly taking shots without permission at the court entrance to leave the premises and that she never issued a blanket quit order to all the reporters.

But, the GJA said her account was in contrast with that of journalists who were at the court. The journalists quoted the magistrate as saying she did not want any journalist in her court.
The apex court ruled that he got the money wrongfully.

However, dissatisfied with the ruling by the court, Woyome has resorted to the African Court of Justice to determine the matter.

READ MORE: Martin Amidu withdraws suit against Woyome

He said he was of the view that the Supreme Court of Ghana violated his human rights when it ruled that he should refund the money.

In April 2017, Alfred Agbesi Woyome has petitioned the International Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), over the GH51.2 million judgment debt.

He said the ruling by the Supreme Court asking him to refund the money he was paid wrongfully and should be refunded, was a breach of his human rights.

In his statement of claim at the African Court of Justice, Woyome said his human rights to equality before the law, fair trial and an impartial tribunal have been violated by the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, report by the Ghanaian Times indicates that lawyers at the Attorney Generals Department have filed a fresh motion asking the Supreme Court to order Woyome to appear before it on Thursday June 28, 2017, to be orally examined regarding his indebtedness of GH51.2 million to the state.

READ MORE: Woyome heads to ICC

Records indicate that he had already paid GH4 million in 2016 to the Attorney General as part payment following an agreement reached between the two parties and also an undertaking given by Mr Woyome to be paying GH5 million every four months in instalment until the final payment be made in April 1, 2019.
The chairman of the Appointments Committee and First Deputy Speaker, Joe Osei-Owusu, in presenting the report, said the committee recommended her approval unanimously.

She exhibited a high standard of competence and integrity, forthrightness and independence of thought, astuteness in depth, and appreciation of the law, fairness, and selflessness. The nominee Sophia Akuffo qualifies to serve as the Chief Justice of the Republic. Mr Speaker, it is the recommendation of the house by unanimity that the nominee be approved to take the seat of Chief Justice in Ghana, he stated.

Justice Akuffo was nominated by the president, Nana Akufo-Addo following Justice Georgina Theodora Woods retirement in June.

She becomes the fifth Chief Justice of the Fourth Republic when she is sworn into office.

Justice Akuffo has assured that if she is endorsed, she will ensure that every Ghanaian will have quality justice if they resort to the courts for settlement of disputes.

Profile of Sophia Akuffo

Ms Justice Akuffo has been at the Supreme Court for the past two decades. She has a masters degree in Law (LL.M) from the Havard University in the United States of America (USA).

She has been a member of the Governing Committee of the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute and Chairperson of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Task Force.

In January 2006, she was elected one of the first judges of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights and was re-elected until 2014 when she served as the Vice-President. She is the immediate past President of the court.

She is on the Disciplinary Committee of the General Legal Council and has held membership of many organisations.
You remember when Professor Mills was praying in the castle; there were all these hullabaloos that he was turning the castle into a church. Now; I am not against Muslim religion; what is Bawumia doing?. Every evening, people have to go and break their fast; if I was Bawumia, I will not do a thing like that; I would rather go to the poor areas of Fadama, Zongo to go and break my fast with the people there. We should stop all these facades. If you say somebody was turning the castle into a church, you cannot also turn the flagstaff house into a mosque. This religious bigotry should stop, he told Accra-based Radio Gold.
Last year, the Russian government approved the renewals of six trademarks for President Donald Trump that were about to expire, according to a New York Times investigation on Sunday.

Four of those renewals were officially registered by Russia on Election Day.

The Times found that the Kremlin approved applications for the trademarks' renewal beginning in April 2016 and ending in December of that year, according to records maintained by Rospatent, Russia's government agency which oversees intellectual property.

The trademarks were originally obtained between 1996 and 2007, but they had gone unused. Each of the trademarks was granted a 10-year extension in 2016, the investigation found.

Trump has repeatedly said that he has no remaining business deals in or involving Russia.

"

The Times noted that nothing in the records maintained by Rospatent indicates Trump was shown particular favor when trademarks bearing his name were approved for renewal. However, intellectual property law experts said that renewals are not guaranteed and can be difficult to obtain when trademarks have gone unused for a long period of time, like Trump's were.

While it was renewing Trump's trademarks in 2016, the Russian government was also engaged in an active hacking campaign to undermine the election. The US intelligence community concluded with high confidence that Russian operatives specifically targeted the Democratic National Committee and the Hillary Clinton campaign in an effort to subvert Clinton's candidacy and propel then-candidate Trump to victory. Intelligence agencies also confirmed that Russian hackers designed an elaborate online fake news and disinformation campaign focused on disseminating false information about Clinton in order to swing votes toward Trump.

In addition to investigating Russia's role in meddling in the 2016 election, Congress and the FBI are also looking into any potential collusion between Trump associates and the Kremlin to hand Trump the presidency.

The Russia probes picked up steam after Trump abruptly fired former FBI director James Comey  who was spearheading the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia  in early May. A slew of media reports published after the fact raised questions about Trump's motivations in firing Comey, and legal experts touched on the possibility that Trump may have waded into impeachment territory if he removed Comey specifically because of the Russia investigation.

Last week, The Washington Post reported that FBI special counsel Robert Mueller is investigating Trump for obstruction of justice. In an apparent response to the report, Trump tweeted on Friday, "

"Then why did he say he was [under investigation]?" Todd asked. "I mean, was this just mis-tweeted? Are we not to take him at his word?"

Sekulow insisted that Todd was "reading more to the tweet than what's there."
"There is nothing more tragic for a parent than to lose a child in the prime of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ottos family and friends, and all who loved him," read a statement from Trump on Monday.

Trump said that his administration was determined to "prevent such tragedies from befalling innocent people at the hands of regimes that do not respect the rule of law or basic human decency."

Warmbier was tried and detained for "anti-state" activities which amounted to an attempt to steal a propaganda poster from a North Korean hotel. North Korea sentenced him to 15 years of hard labor, but Warmbier went into a coma shortly after his trial.

The Trump administration had secured the release of Warmbier over a long period of diplomatic negotiations. Upon Warmbier's release, Trump called his family.

Trump also commented on Warmbier's death during a technology roundtable event at the White House on Monday.

"He spent a year and a half in North Korea. A lot of bad things happened," Trump said of Warmbier. "But at least we got him home to be with his parents, where they were so happy to see him, even though he was in very tough condition. But he just passed away a little while ago."

He added: "It's a brutal regime, and we'll be able to handle it."

Warmbier died at 2:20 p.m. on Monday "surrounded by his loving family," according to a statement from the Warmbiers.

"The United States once again condemns the brutality of the North Korean regime as we mourn its latest victim," the Trump statement concluded.
Before an enthusiastic anti-Castro crowd in Miami, Trump signed a directive that restricted Americans' ability to travel to the island, prohibited financial dealings with the Cuban military, and laid out several stipulations on which future US-Cuban negotiations would be based.

One of the four goals of Trump's police change is to "Further the national security and foreign policy interests of the United States and those of the Cuban people," according to a fact sheet distributed by the White House.

"[Russia] has already started trying to make up the gap in petroleum imports to Cuba that have fallen off dramatically with the chaos in Venezuela," retired Army Brig. Gen. David L. McGinnis, a member of the Consensus for American Security at the American Security Project, said on an Atlantic Council conference call this week.

Russia has also recently forgiven billions in Cuban government debt and won a bid to build a railroad on the island.

"They're in a market for products from both Russia and China, and both of those countries have the resources to provide the loans to allow them to purchase their weapons and equipment," McGinnis said.

These are not new concerns.

In 2010, nine retired generals wrote to then-House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Howard Berman to say that Cuba did not pose a threat to the US and to call for the travel ban to be lifted.

For its part, Havana has not fully embraced Russia (or China, which is Cuba's largest trading partner and the largest holder of its foreign debt).

According to McGinnis, that is likely because of the Cuban government "wanting to have a balanced foreign policy to the best extent they can, hoping that we will step forward and do the right thing."

This isn't a return to the Cold War, but the Cuban mood may quickly change if avenues for engagement with the US appear to be closed.
The actor in an interview with Broadway said he doesn't know anything about it. When asked about his marital crisis, he said, "I don't know what you're talking about."

AY Makun's wife, Mabel warned Freda Francis to stay away from her family after a photo of AY and Freda surfaced.

AY shared a photo of himself and Francis at the event. His wife Mabel Makun, re-posted the photo and she captioned it, "I think I have had enough of the ridiculing. Freda Francis stay away from my family and I mean it."

Mabel then went on to share screenshots of a chat supposedly between Freda and AY. She has since deleted her posts.

But now a longer version of the chat has surfaced on Stella Dimokokorkus blog.

Recall that back in 2016, it was reported that Mabel Makun had left her matrimonial homeover a 'misunderstanding'.

AY and Mabel got married in Lagos on November 29, 2008 in an elaborate gig that had several personalities and top celebrities in attendance.

No reason was given why Mabel left her home but blogger Stella Dimokokorkus hinted that the details are too dirty to be posted.
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Evans made the disclosure when he led police detectives from the Federal Anti-kidnapping Unit to locations where he had the detention camps where his victims were kept for months while negotiations for ransom went on.

Vanguard report that Evans took the operatives to two of the three camps located in the New Igando and Jakande Estate, Isolo, Lagos State.

Evans who was arrested by a combined team of the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team [IRT] and the Anti-Kidnap Unit of the Lagos State Police Command at one of his Magodo Phase II GRA, Lagos, home on Saturday, June 10, 2017, allegedly told the police that he rented the three camps to be used as camps for the abducted victims.

I rented the house in Isolo in 2010 and used it for my detention camp. I have kept only three victims inside the house. I paid for only one year rent.

I have just three camps in Lagos where I kept some of the victims I kidnapped and the camps are in Jakande Estate, Igando and Gowon Estate area of the state.

I collected $1 million from one of the victims while the other two paid me $300,000 and $250,000 respectively.

Whenever I noticed policemen were after me, I will move the victim to a different camp so as to prevent policemen from tracking me.

I rented the Jakande house for N750,000 per annum. I also operate several bank accounts, but I used GTB constantly.

I dont come to the camps; I have my boys on the ground and they give me information on a daily basis.

I can say I am the king of kidnappers in Nigeria and if the police can arrest me despite the security I put in place, I don't think any kidnapper is safe. I invested a lot of money in my security to always be ahead of the police but the way and manner they caught me was a surprise. I give kudos to them.

The vehicles I owned were a Toyota Hilux and a Nissan pickup that I bought for N7 million each; a Lexus GS460, which I bought for N22 million; 2016 Range Rover, which cost me N55 million and Lexus GL47 that was bought for N9 million.

That is to tell you that I lived large on my kidnap proceeds but I will tell any kidnapper out there to desist from the crime as the police will surely catch up with you no matter how long it takes.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Balarabe Kakale, made this known on Sunday in Sokoto at a ceremony marking the 2017 World Sickle Awareness Day.

It was organised by the state Ministry of Health, in collaboration with an NGO, The Productive Youth Development Initiative.

The World Sickle Cell Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 to increase the awareness about the sickle cell disease and its cure among the common public.

It was first celebrated on June 19, 2009.

Kakale said that the ministry would organise a seminar to be attended by medical experts, traditional and religious leaders, as well as other stakeholders on the issue.

The commissioner said that the seminar would agree on the positions of the law, Islam and culture.

Kakale said: The ministry will thereafter sponsor a private bill to the state House of Assembly in this direction.

The bill, after its debate and passage by the state House of Assembly and sign into law by the state governor, will make it compulsory for intending couples to undergo the sickle cell test.

This is to further reduce the prevalence of the disease in the state and the country as a whole.

He said that under the law, they would also be compelled to enrol for the state community contributory health scheme and use the long-lasting insecticide treated nets.

All these measures are targeted at further reducing the menace of the diseases in the state, he said.

Kakale stressed the need for people in the state to enrol under the contributory health scheme to reduce the cost of treating sickle cell and all its complications.

He said that the scheme would take care of diseases like hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS, liver, kidney and heart-related diseases, as well as bone fractures caused by road traffic crashes.

Also, the Wife of Gov. Aminu Tambuwal, Hajiya Mariya Tambuwal, represented by Dr Zainab Tori, pledged her support to the people living with sickle cell and other diseases.

In his remarks, Alhaji Sani Umar, the District Head of Gagi in Sokoto South Local Government Area, urged the traditional and religious leaders to support the state government in reducing the diseases.

Umar said that more attention should be given to people in the rural areas in meeting their health needs, saying, majority of our people who live in the rural areas are suffering from these diseases.
Vanguard reports that the victim identified as Friday, an orphan, is the son of Paul's brother and had been living with him after the death of his parents two years ago, but had never had a moment's peace as his uncle has been maltreating him on a daily basis.

The incident happened at Paul's residence on 6, Anjolarin Street, Odogunyan, area of the state after he accused his young nephew of stealing the money and in a bid to make him confess, Paul resorted to the brutality on him.

The suspect, according to residents of the area, had allegedly accused his nephew of stealing the money he kept in his room at the weekend but the eight-year-old boy denied taking the money which infuriated his uncle.

Paul was said to have dragged the boy into his apartment and tortured him. Not done with that, he was said to have driven three inches nail into the boys skull and his cries for help was said to have attracted neighbours who rushed to the scene, but Paul was said to have abandoned the boy and fled.

It was learned that sympathizers caught up with him and handed him over to the Police at Sagamu Road Division while the young boy was rushed to The Saviour the Rock Hospital, Odonla Road, Odogunyan, where doctors are still battling to save his life.

A resident who did not want his name in print said if not for the quick arrival of the police, Paul would have been lynched by the angry crowd.
Alhaji Nura Koza, the APC chairman of the local government made the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Maiadua on Monday.

Koza said that the intervention had bailed out communities in the area who had suffered endless water scarcity for years.

According to him, Katsina State Government is also repairing many motorized solar water pumps in the area to boost water supply.

Koza noted that the supply of potable water to communities would boost public health and insulate rural dwellers from water borne diseases.

The chairman also lauded the governor for the construction of six rural health centers in Jirdede, Galadimawa, Kwadage, Maidaniya, Danyashe and Maiadua.

He said that it was a major project which would enhance access to health services especially for pregnant women and children.

Koza expressed the hope that the health centres would be fully stocked and provided with qualified personnel for effective services.

The local APC chairman disclosed that the administration had also constructed two additional primary schools in Kongolam, and at Dumurkol village, the ancestral home of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He added that 37 other primary schools in the area had been renovated by the governor in the last two years.

The chairman called on the State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct local council polls, so as give local people the opportunity to elect their leaders across the 34 local government areas of the state.
In an open letter to Osinbajo, the group noted that 'the Igbos had manifested their hatred for Nigerias unity' five years after the country gained independence.

The letter was signed by Shettima Yerima, Joshua Viashman, Aminu Adam, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman and Nastura Ashir Sharif.

The Arewa youths alleged that the activities of the Igbo under Nnamdi Kanu and the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) have become a cause for concern.

The letter reads:

Your Excellency, we want to reiterate our high respect for your office and acknowledge the efforts you are making to lower tensions. We assure you, as well-brought up northerners, we listen to the advice and cautions of our elders, and in particular, their concerns that we do not create the impression that any Igbo or any Nigerian will be harmed in the north.

We assure you that we will defend the rights of every Nigerian to live in peace and have their rights protected.

While we do not see this clamour for Biafra as an issue over which a single drop of blood should be shed, we at the same time, insist that the Igbo be allowed to have their Biafra and for them to vacate our land peacefully so that our dear country Nigeria could finally enjoy lasting peace and stability.

We begin this letter by commending your efforts towards finding a lasting solution to the lingering Igbo-induced crisis that is undoubtedly overheating the polity.

We sincerely believe Your Excellencys good intentions as shown by your prompt and genuine actions towards ensuring peace and stability in holding talks with leaders of the north and the south-east.

Though we do not doubt Your Excellencys bona fide concerns for the peaceful resolution of the crises, we nevertheless have reservations as to the efficacy of this approach in ensuring lasting solutions.

Our doubts are informed by the following historical antecedents that have characterised the behaviour and conduct of the Igbo in Nigeria and previous efforts at containing them.

The seed of hate planted in the name of Biafra is evidently so deep that the ongoing interaction between you and the leaders from the south-east cannot in our well-informed opinion douse or address the underlying deep-seated underlying problems, the letter read.

To make a bad situation even worse, their leaders have continued to show support for this treacherous cause and thus giving credence to our concern that what they say about us is what they truly mean and intend  Kill everyone in the Zoo (north). Your Excellency, we cannot afford to discard this as mere mischief as the utterances that caused the terrible Rwandan genocide still resonates in our minds.

Lastly sir, it is quite impossible to expect that other nationalities would simply stand by and watch while a certain ethnic group perpetrates all the above heinous misconduct that involve threats, call to violence and extermination, insults and songs of war without responding, the group said.
The Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District said the National Assembly will soon work on a bill that stipulates great consequences for people engaging in hate speeches in the country.

Speaking at a meeting convened by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth and Student Affairs, Alhaji Nasiru Adhama for regional youth leaders in Abuja, Murray-Bruce said Nigerian youths must not create unnecessary tension.

The senator stated that the proposed bill when passed into law would check the activities of those agitating for secession as well as encouraging divisive tendencies among Nigerians.

There will be great consequences for hate speech. We must not create tension and get into the ethnic game.

We must not get into hate speech because we are coming up with a bill at the National Assembly that will stipulate great consequences for people engaging in hate speeches.

I said there will be consequences for hate speech.

You dont have the right to get on Television to insult any ethnic group in this country; you dont have the right to criticise the other group because you dont love them, you dont sound like them, you dont talk like them, you dont walk like them.

You have no right to divide this country. We have enough problems the way we are. We will not tolerate any of the nonsense.

We need a government of national unity. Right now, we must keep Nigeria united; we must stand together, stay healthy and move Nigeria forward, he said.

He attributed the current problems facing Nigeria as a geo-political entity to inability of Nigerians to study the nations history, saying the previous Nigerian Ministers of Education should be held responsible for this situation.

According to him, we need to understand why we are a nation called Nigeria and why we have problems in first place.

One of the biggest problems we have as a nation is that we are not students of history.

Sometimes you need to agitate so that we can have a conversation, so that we can fix the problem. So, we have to cope with agitating as long as there is no violence.

But I think as a nation we must understand history. Like I said in the senate we must understand history.

History teaches us that supporting one ethnic group against the other is counterproductive.

How did we all get here. We got here because in 1966 the Igbo command wiped out the northern command, that is how it started.

Then, the northern command retaliated and wiped out the Igbo command than they started killing Igbos in north then they went home.

Ojukwu felt he should be head of state because he was older and more senior to Gowon. And then he set up the republic of Biafra, he started fighting he lost the war and went on exile, he said.

Murray-Bruce also stressed the need for population control policy to check possible population explosion in the country.

He maintained that the nations population was part of its challenges which must be addressed if Nigeria must progress.

We are a nation of 180million people; 70 million unemployed; six million lost their jobs last year alone.

So, what is happening? For every position there are about 10,000 people trying to take your job. So, everybody has a right to feel cheated by somebody who has a job and you dont have a job.

We must have a population control policy whether you like it or not, whether you are a Muslim or Christian, even if you dont believe in abortion.

If we dont stop the growth of Nigeria from 180million to one billion in less than a 100 years, if you cannot feed 180million today I guarantee you in a 100 years Nigeria is going to be more populous than China and India.

People say this guy is crazy, yes, Im crazy, he said.

The senator further lamented that Nigeria had been turned into factory of producing babies without commensurate economic benefits.

According to him, we used to think the population explosion was only in north. When I went to the villages in Bayelsa, for every hut I walked passed there were 10 to 15 children outside this hut.

Now, Nigeria is a baby making factory; we make babies.

They may say we are the largest consumer market in the world. Well, we cannot be the consumer market in the world when you have very poor people.

The Senator reiterated his call for a constitutional conference, saying the nation needed to be restructured where power would move to the states.

According to him, the Federal Government has too much power and control too much of the resources of the country.

Other speakers at the event, included Malam Isaq Balami of the Arewa Consultative Forum Youth Congress, who advised the youth not to allow themselves to be used and dumped by the elites.

Comrade Ola Hassan of the Yoruba Council of Youth stressed the need for more legislative laws and policies that would be of enormous benefit to the entire Nigerians irrespective of their geo-political backgrounds.

He called for Youth driven laws such the proposed Youth Development Right Act that would guarantee better life for all Nigerian youths.
In a report by SaharaReporters, scores of villagers were massacred as a result of the terrorists' attack on Gumsiri community in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State.

"Many may have been killed. Hundreds of civilians fled to Damboa town from Gumsiri. The terrorists arrived at about 6 pm and as of 8.30pm, they were still there,"Abu Damboa, a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) reportedly said.

It was further reported that some of the fleeing civilians and other sources hinted that the terrorists easily overpowered local hunters because Nigerian Army troops were not in the vicinity to assist.

ALSO READ: Army confirms arrest of suspected terrorist

"They overpowered our members in Gumsiri. I can't tell you what the casualty figure is now. We just want to appeal to the Chief of Army Staff to deploy troops to all the villages between Damboa and Chibok. We don't have soldiers in Gumsiri," the source was quoted.
The buildings are located in Igando and Ejigbo areas of Lagos.

While speaking to newsmen, Evans said that his arrest would mean the beginning of the end of kidnapping in Nigeria as his gang is the most sophisticated in the 'business'.

Evans was arrested on June 10, along with six suspected top members of his gang at Magodo Estate in Lagos.

His arrest followed "an intense gun battle" with the Joint Special Forces led by the Intelligence Response Team, the Lagos State Police Commands Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Technical and Intelligent Unit of the Force under the supervision of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.
A group known as the Coalition of Northern Youths (CNY) had issued an ultimatum asking South-Easterners to leave the North.

Fayose however called on leaders from South-East and North to sort out matters.

The Governor said How can a President that was just sworn-in after a tension-soaked election be saying that any section that didnt vote for him wont benefit from his appointments?

By implication, such President was openly giving room for sectionalism and that was exactly what President Buhari did after the election. We could all confirm that Nigeria has never been this divided in history.

Every Nigerian knew that the people of the southeast didnt vote for him, so that automatically gave that Northern groups to have the effrontery to order Igbos out of their region. When a leader speaks like that, something like this is bound to happen.

ALSO READ:Fayose is using Ekiti as trading post to make money

We cant deny the fact that the problem has gone so deep in dividing us. But it is not beyond solution. The leaders from Southeast and the North should sit down and iron out their differences in the interest of everybody.
Suswam was arraigned alongside his Commissioner of Finance, Mr. Omadachi Oklobia, and the then Accountant of the Government House, Mrs. Janet Aluga.

The defendants were accused of diverting the sum of N9.79billion, part of which was meant for Police Reform Programme and Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the 32-count charges of fraud, money laundering and financial misappropriation levelled against them.

After the charges were read, counsel to Suswam and Oklobia, Tawo Tawo (SAN), applied for their bail stating that the defendants were granted bail when arraigned by the EFCC for corruption charges before Justice Ahmed Mohammed.

He added that the defendants did not jump the bail granted to them and have been attending trial.

The prosecuting counsel, Aminu Alilu, who did not object to the application for bail, asked the court to use its discretion.

Ruling on the bail application, Justice Gabriel Kolawole, granted the defendants bail in the sum N250 million each with one surety each in like sum.

He ordered that each surety must be a director or principal officer not below Grade Level 12 in a local, state or federal establishment.

The court said in a situation whereby the defendants fail to get a high ranking civil servant, persons with national honour shall suffice.

Justice Kolawole also ordered that the defendants shall surrender their international or diplomatic passports to the Deputy Registrar Litigation.

These bail conditions shall be verified by the Deputy Chief Registrar, Litigation, and if the defendants fail to meet up with conditions today, they shall be remanded in prison.

The surety must swear an affidavit of means in signing the bail bond and must produce recent passport photograph to the Deputy Chief registrar Litigation,  he said.

The Judge adjourned the matter to Oct. 10, for commencement of trial.
Suswam was arraigned with his Commissioner of Finance, Mr. Omadachi Oklobia, and then Accountant of the Government House, Mrs. Janet Aluga also as defendants.

The trio were accused of diverting the sum of N9.79billion of the state's money.

They all pleaded not guilty to the charges of fraud, money laundering and financial misappropriation.

Suswam was arrested on February 25 by the Department of State Services (DSS) after firearms were discovered in his exotic cars at his Abuja home.
In a report by Punch, Obono-Obla said the judge, who was recently recalled from suspension alongside five others by the National Judicial Council, will be charged this week with offences bordering on receiving gratification from lawyers.

Obono-Obla allegedly revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission would likely file charges against the judge and the lawyers by Tuesday, June 20, 2017.

The presidential aide was further reported to have said that the NJC deliberately cleared the judge (whose name was not disclosed) to resume work despite cases of receiving gratification from lawyers pending against the judicial officer.

The presidential aide said, The judge will be charged. He was deliberately cleared by the NJC. But now, we have established a case of receiving gratification from 100 lawyers against him.

The EFCC will file the charges against the judge and the lawyers by Monday or Tuesday.

He said apart from charging the lawyers alongside the judge, We are also going to bring disciplinary proceedings against those lawyers, he was quoted as saying.

ALSO READ: NJC justifies decision to recall 6 judges accused of corruption

The judge, whose identity is yet to be unravelled, will be the second among the recalled judges, to be charged after the NJC lifted their about-eight-month suspension.

The NJC had in a statement on June 1, 2017, lifted the suspension of six out of the eight judges barred from performing their judicial functions since October 2016 pending the determination of the corruption cases against them.

The affected judges included, Justice Inyang Okoro of the Supreme Court; Justice Uwani Abba Aji of the Court of Appeal; and Justice Hydiazira Nganjiwa of the Federal High Court.
Odimayo, popularly called Londoner, had been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in his hometown of Igbotu last week Thursday.

According to Vanguard, news of his death was confirmed by some local vigilante members who said his body was found near Ogolo River, between Sabomi and Igbotu, where he was kidnapped.

The state's APC spokesman, Abayomi Adesanya, has expressed his shock at the turn of events, saying, "The tragic death of Mr. Olumide Odimayo is a rude shock to us in the party because this is someone who came from London and started the struggle with us.

"I cant get myself as I am speaking with you. Although, our party members have been sending their condolences to his family but his death is very painful to us all."
Osinbajo's meeting with the Northern traditional rulers is following his consultations with Governors and stakeholders from the South-East.

According to political observers, the consultations are aimed at dousing the tension emanating from the eviction notice to Igbos.

A group of Northern youths had earlier issued a statement asking Igbos to leave the North.

Reports say the Northern leaders were already seated at the venue before they were informed of the postponement.

According to Daily Post, Osinbajos spokesman, Laolu Akande said Tonight, the acting president would be holding iftar dinner with northern traditional rulers and tomorrow continue ongoing consultations with them.

Both Muslim and Christian traditional rulers from the north would be participating in consultations tomorrow afternoon with the acting president.
Osinbajo gave the warning at a consultative meeting with traditional rulers from the South-East at the Presidential Banquet Hall, Abuja, on Sunday.

He said: I want to repeat that both the agitations for secession and the ultimatum to leave the northern states are wrong and a violation of our Constitution.

Our Constitution says in Section 2 that Nigeria is one indivisible and indissoluble sovereign state to be known by the name `The Federal Republic of Nigeria.

That is the law of our country. Let us not be in any doubt about the fact that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that our country remains united.

And, anyone who violates the law in the manner such as we are seeing all over the place will be met with the full force of the law.

The reason why it is so is because for Nigerias unity, enough blood has been spilled and many hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost.

The acting president recalled that many Nigerians had paid the supreme price to keep the country united, saying that it will be wrong for men and women of goodwill in this generation to toy with those sacrifices that had been made.

He, therefore, maintained that men of goodwill must not tolerate any tendency that would drag the nation in the direction of yet another civil conflict.

He, however, said that the government and people must be sensitive to the reasons why there are agitations by the various young men across the various zones of this country.

Many have to do with perceived marginalization; some have argued that safety in the different zones has been compromised.

But I want to say the only way to make things right is to do things right. And, it will be wrong of us to approach even our grievances by threatening to disobey the laws or by threatening the integrity of our nation, he added.

Osinbajo reiterated Federal Governments commitment to listening to all the reasons, the various suggestions and the various agitations and the reasons for those agitations and to ensure that we do justice to all persons regardless of where you are from in this country.

That is the commitment of Federal Government which I am able to make to you today.

Our greatness lies in our being together and I believe very strongly that as our royal fathers you will ensure the message is clear to all.

He added that the greatness of any people lay in their ability to work together in spite of their differences and the types of offence that had been caused between each other.

The acting president expressed the hope that royal fathers would continue to offer useful suggestions and the right advice to ensure that the country remained united.
Ahmad-Babaji, a Professor of Horticulture at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) ABU, expressed the viewpoint in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Zaria, Kaduna State.

NAN reports that Nigeria usually experiences acute shortage of tomato at the beginning of every rainy season, because tomato cultivated during the dry season could not survive the rainy season.

The don said that tomato was a cool-loving and non heat-tolerant crop, hence, the need to intensify efforts toward coming up with new varieties that were heat-tolerant.

One of the ways to address this peculiar problem is to develop heat-tolerant tomato varieties; already, our scientists have done something on that."

Initially, IAR had the mandate of genetic improvement on tomato; during that time, we have done a good number of things by developing some few tomato varieties."

But when the mandate was transferred to the National Horticulture Research Institute, all the genetics works have been transferred to that place, he said.

Ahmad-Babaji said that in an effort to ameliorate the menace, IAR had developed UC82, a little bit heat-tolerant variety, which had been in the market.

The university teacher observed that for Nigeria to effectively tackle the problem there was the need to address problems arising from pest and diseases, humidity and non-heat tolerant varieties.

He, however, said that as an Agric Faculty, the Department of Plant Science was also doing other things, but not under IAR.

Some students and scientists are also conducting some researches to come up with heat-tolerant tomato varieties."

Last year, there was a student who graduated from the department, who had screened some varieties which have heat-tolerant ability; some of these were imported from outside."

From my discussion with him, the student wanted to continue with his PhD in that line, maybe in some few years to come, we will be able to come up with heat-tolerant varieties.

According to the professor, in the next three to four years, farmers should expect new heat-tolerant varieties that will adapt to the Nigerian climate.

He said that when such move was actualised, farmers would be able to cultivate tomato all-year round without any interference.

Ahmad-Babaji identified ice-rain and heavy rainfall as other problems directly affecting tomato cultivation during the rainy season.
The returning officer for the recall, Adamu Yusuf stated this at the All Progressives Congress (APC) state secretariat in Lokoja on Monday, June 19, 2017.

Yusuf noted that out of 360,098 of the total registered voters of the seven western senatorial districts comprising Yagba, Mopa Muro, Kabba Bunu, Yagba East, Koton Karfe, Lokoja and Ijumu, 188, 588, signed the recall register constituting 52.3% of the voters in senatorial district.

According to him, Yagba East  out of 35,331 registered voters, 18, 374 (52%) signed the recall register of Senator Melaye.

Others are Mopa 18,356 voters (9,186 signed comprising 50.04%), Kabba-Bunu 60,522, voters (28,277 signed making 46.7%, and Yagba West out of 35, 966 registered voters 20,029 signed signifying 55.7%.

Lokoja local government recorded the highest with 63, 736 (54.8%) voters recalling the Senator out of 116, 296 registered voters, DailyPost reports.

For Koton Karfe 24,703 (52.77%) voters penned their signature while in Ijumu out of 46,819 registered voters, 24, 238 depicting 51.8% passed a vote of no confidence on the senator to represent them in the National Assembly.

Going by the above figures, it is important to let Nigerians know that we have met the Constitutional requirements of 51.1%. Dino has failed to represent Kogi West so we are calling him back home, Yusuf said.
The governor gave the commendation while swearing in two new members of the LASIEC board  Prof. Gabriel Babawale and Dr Noah Jinadu  and some other appointees in Ikeja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other appointees were for the Public Procurement Agency, Audit Service Commission as well as the States Safety Commission

Ambode said the appointees were chosen based on their track record, integrity and credibility, urging them to also add value to corporate governance in the state.

Your appointment is a call to public service and I am very confident that you will justify the trust the government has reposed in your ability and capacity to add value to the corporate governance, growth and development of the state.

Let me also add that your appointment is an invitation and a privilege to be part of history as we lay a solid foundation for the future of Lagos; a Lagos that our children and their children will enjoy for many years to come, he said.

The governor said the appointment of Babawale and Jinadu to the Board of LASIEC was necessitated by the exit of two members who had completed their tenure.

He said that the provision of the law setting up the Commission required that the Board comprise the Chairman and six members.

With this appointment therefore, LASIEC is properly constituted to conduct the forthcoming Local Government elections in the State, Ambode said.

On the other agencies with new appointees, the governor noted that the Public Procurement Agency and Audit Service Commission were very important.

He said the two key agencies were established mainly to ensure transparency and accountability in the procurement process as well as the management and application of public resources.

ALSO READ: Lagos Govt to strengthen healthcare for Sickle Cell patients

The governor urged the new appointees to bring their professionalism to bear to further strengthen their operations.

I charge you to ensure strict application of relevant rules and never to hesitate in applying appropriate sanctions when necessary, Ambode said.

He also charged the new Director-General of the State Safety Commission, Mr Hakeem Dickson, to show leadership and deliver on the mandate of the commission.

Ambode said it had a mandate to prepare and adequately handle emergency situations through continuous public education and enlightenment as well as enforcement of safety precautions and rules.
According to The Daily Mail, the Prince has gifted the Suits actress a new ring that she only takes off when she films  but its a only thumb ring.

Meghan recently returned to work on the latest season of the legal drama, and was last spotted wearing the ring while catching a flight from Austin, Texas, to Toronto.

The Daily Mails source says the ring is "a gold band and Harry gave it to her about six weeks ago" and Meghan has "happily told people on set that it is from him and said it is a little too big so she is always careful not to lose sight of it.

The actress first reported gift from her royal boo was a blue and white bracelet which matches the one he wears on his right hand.

Hes also given Meghan a Cartier Love bracelet, a gold Maya Brenner necklace with the initials M and H, and a gold arrow ring, which The Daily Mail says also has the letter H.

In May, Meghan was the Prince's date for Pippa Middleton's wedding to James Matthews and the lavish wedding reception at Pippas parents $8 million home in Bucklebury.

Soon enough, it just might be the couple who are inviting the cream of society to their own nuptials.
The two countries are also working closely together on the TAP and Turkish Stream gas pipelines to carry gas into Europe through Turkey.

But the leaders did not hide their differences over a territorial dispute in the Aegean when speaking to journalists after their meeting.

While focusing on deepening commercial ties, the two countries need to work on resolving the Aegean dispute, said Tsipras.

He claimed that Turkish violations of Greek airspace and territorial waters in the Aegean Sea had increased over the last nine months.

"The Aegean must remain a sea of peace and stability," said Tsipras.

But territorial violations had occurred on both sides, according to Yildirim who said it was best to focus on areas of agreement.

He thanked Tsipras for his support in Turkey's bid to join the European Union while repeating his call for the EU to make good on its side of an agreement with Ankara to cut the flow of migrants from Turkish coasts into Europe.

Brussels had offered Turkey a three-billion euro package and a visa waiver for Turkish nationals if they helped migrants on Turkish soil so they did not move on into Europe.

Cyprus

The two leaders were cautious about upcoming talks on the thorny question of Cyprus, saying they hoped for a "fair and viable solution".

The United Nations is leading a new international meeting on the subject in Switzerland on June 28.

UN envoy Espen Barth Eide is pushing for a quick resolution of the question, calling the upcoming talks an "historic opportunity".

Guarantor powers Greece, Turkey and Britain will also attend the conference, as will a representative of the European Union as an observer.

The eastern Mediterranean island has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded its northern third in response to an Athens-inspired coup seeking union with Greece.
Guterres, in a statement issued on Sunday, condoled the Portuguese Government and people, saying he was shocked and horrified at the many lives claimed by the raging wildfires.

Portugal has declared three days of mourning as 62 people were declared killed by the fire, most of them trapped in their cars by flames as treacherous wind drove the blaze beyond firefighters control.

The government has declared Sunday through Tuesday national days of mourning for the victims of a fire which has caused an irreparable loss of human life, with casualties expected to rise.

Guterres said he spoke earlier on Sunday with the President of Portugal, Marcelo de Sousa, and with the Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, expressing his deep sadness.

According to reports, the fast-moving wildfires ripped through the forested Pedrogao Grande central region of Portugal, some 150 kilometers (95 miles) northeast of Lisbon, leaving dozens dead and more injured.

I wish a speedy recovery to the injured. At this time of loss, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims, Guterres said.

The UN chief commended the efforts of government agencies, firefighters, emergency responders and civil society organizations that are sparing no efforts to battle the wildfire and help people in need.
Regime and allies

Syria's 300,000-strong pre-war army has been halved by deaths, defections and draft-dodging.

It is bolstered by up to 200,000 irregulars and as many as 8,000 men from Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement as well as Iranian, Iraqi and Afghan fighters.

Regime backer Russia began an air campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad in September 2015, helping Damascus recapture key areas including second city Aleppo.

Iran has also given Assad major financial and military support.

The government now holds around half of the country.

Rebels

Syria's opposition comprises multiple factions including moderate rebels and Islamist groups.

Estimates of total opposition forces range from tens of thousands up to around 100,000.

Early in the uprising, rebels coalesced under the banner of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), but the opposition has since splintered.

One of the most powerful factions is Ahrar al-Sham, which espouses a hardline Islamist ideology and is strong in Idlib province.

Another leading Islamist rebel group, Jaish al-Islam (Army of Islam), is active around Damascus.

Rebels who once controlled large areas now only hold around 12 percent of the country, according to Syrian geography expert Fabrice Balanche.

That includes areas where they are allied with the jihadist Fateh al-Sham Front.

Around 12.5 percent of Syria's remaining population lives in rebel-held territory.

Jihadists

Two major rival jihadist forces operate in Syria: the Islamic State group and former Al-Qaeda affiliate Fateh al-Sham Front.

IS emerged from wars in Syria and Iraq to seize swathes of both countries in mid-2014.

It declared an Islamic "caliphate", committed widespread atrocities and carried out or inspired deadly attacks around the world.

Since then, IS has suffered major losses under pressure from an air war by a US-led coalition.

It holds around 20 percent of Syrian territory, though that is rapidly shrinking as regime forces and a US-backed alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters advance against it.

Fateh al-Sham Front split in July 2016 from Al-Qaeda and has been close to Ahrar al-Sham since 2015, though infighting has also erupted between the two factions.

The Kurds

Syria's Kurds have largely avoided the conflict between the government and armed opposition, carving out a semi-autonomous region in northern and northeastern Syria.

Their People's Protection Units (YPG) militia became a key partner of the US-led coalition fighting IS and forms the backbone of the US-backed Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The YPG controls about 20 percent of Syrian territory but some three-quarters of the northern border with Turkey.

Over two million people live in Kurdish-held Syrian territory.

The SDF began an operation to capture IS stronghold Raqa in November 2016, entering the city in June with US-led coalition support.

Turkey began an offensive into Syria in August 2016 against both IS and the YPG, which Ankara regards as the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) which has waged a 33-year insurrection inside Turkey.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar

Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey have provided military and financial support to rebels fighting Assad, who belongs to the minority Alawite sect linked to Shiite Islam.

Long accused of turning a blind eye to jihadist activity along its southern border, Turkey has joined the US-led coalition fighting IS and deployed troops to battle the group in northern Syria.

Although they support opposing sides, Ankara and Moscow have worked closely in recent months to reach a political solution to the conflict.

International coalition

A US-led coalition has targeted IS and other jihadists in Syria with air strikes since 2014.

The coalition includes Britain, France, Saudi Arabia and Turkey along with Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates.

It is a key backer of the SDF advance on Raqa, but has been drawn into clashes with regime forces also advancing on the city since early June.

On June 18, a US warplane downed a Syrian fighter jet that had allegedly targeted SDF fighters south of Raqa.
The decision came after the Palestinian Authority (PA), which is based in the occupied West Bank, told Israel it would no longer foot the bill for electricity supplies to Gaza.

It raises concerns of rising tensions and a collapse of vital services in an impoverished and overcrowded territory that has been devastated by three wars with Israel since 2008.

Hamas has run Gaza since 2007, when it seized the strip in a near civil war from the Fatah party of Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, in a dispute over general elections won by the Islamist movement.

Multiple attempts at reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah have failed, but the PA had continued to pay Israel for some electricity delivered to Gaza until this month.

Israel "began to reduce electricity flow by eight megawatts" into the enclave, Gaza's energy authority said.

The state-run Israel Electricity Corporation confirmed it had diminished power supplies "in accordance with a government directive".

Until Monday, Israel supplied 120 megawatts of electricity to Gaza a month, which made up about one quarter of the enclave's needs, with the PA paying the 11.3 million euros ($12.65 million) monthly bill.

Since the sole power station in Gaza ran out of fuel and stopped working in April, the 120 megawatts represent 80 percent of available power in the strip.

The Israel Electric Corporation said power supply would "effectively be reduced on two lines out of 10 every day, until the reduction applies to all 10 lines".

Total collapse

The Gaza Strip is home to some two million people, more than three-quarters of whom the United Nations says depend on humanitarian aid.

The power reductions come despite stark warnings of the humanitarian implications for Gazan civilians, who already suffer from critical shortages of power -- with most homes receiving only a few hours even before the cut.

Israeli human rights group Gisha said in a statement on Monday that by reducing supplies "Israel is knowingly aggravating an already dangerous situation in which the strip is teetering on the verge of a humanitarian crisis."

The vast majority of residents are Muslim and are currently observing the holy fasting month of Ramadan.

Robert Piper, UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, warned last week that the Palestinians were being "held hostage to this longstanding internal Palestinian dispute."

"A further increase in the length of blackouts is likely to lead to a total collapse of basic services, including critical functions in the health, water and sanitation sectors."

Hamas last fought Israel in 2014 and analysts have warned the power reduction could prompt the Islamist group to spark another round of conflict.

In a statement Wednesday, Hamas said Israel and Abbas were jointly responsible for the "catastrophic consequences" of the reduction.

The statement did not mention war, but called the measures "dangerous".
Maths ace

Cedric Villani, a 43-year-old star mathematician recognisable by his long hair and colourful floppy bow ties is one of scores of political newcomers who swept to power on Macron's coattails. Winner of the 2010 Fields medal, the equivalent of the Nobel Prize in mathematics, he was elected in the southern Paris suburb of Essonne.

Start-up star

The youngest member of Macron's government, 33-year-old Mounir Mahjoubi, beat off Socialist Party leader Jean-Christophe Cambadelis and a hard-left candidate for a seat in the multi-ethnic 19th district of Paris. Born in France to Moroccan parents, he was made junior minister in charge of the digital economy after leading Macron's online campaign during the presidential race.

Marine Le Pen

As a consolation prize for her defeat in the presidential election, the 48-year-old leader of the far-right National Front (FN) won a seat representing the northern region of Pas-de-Calais, an FN stronghold. A member of the European Parliament since 2004 this is the first time she will sit in the National Assembly, where she will be joined by at least five other FN members -- up from a current total tally of two.

Leftist firebrand

Jean-Luc Melenchon, the fiery 65-year-old leader of the radical left France Unbowed will also join the opposition benches. Melenchon, an MEP and former senator who finished fourth in the presidential election, was elected in the Mediterranean port of Marseille. He has vowed a "merciless" battle against the government on workers' rights.

Socialist survivor

Former prime minister Manuel Valls -- reviled by left-wingers for having tacked to the right while in office -- survived the purge of senior Socialists by the skin of his teeth, winning election in his suburban Paris fiefdom by a mere 139 votes. Valls had sought to run on Macron's ticket. The 54-year-old was rebuffed but REM did not run a candidate against him, facilitating his win.

Meanwhile, some well-known faces were rejected by voters:

- Brains behind Le Pen

FN vice-president Florian Philippot -- the architect of her pledge to take France out of the euro -- was beaten by one of Macron's candidates in eastern France. The 35-year-old is a controversial figure within the FN, blamed by some for pushing a virulently anti-EU line that scared off voters in the presidential election.

Hollande loyalist

A former rising star of the Socialist Party, ex-education minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, 39, was beaten by a Macron-backed entrepreneur in the southeastern city of Lyon.

Former Sarkozy spokeswoman
The assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort comes after a similar strike less than two years ago on a luxury hotel in Bamako, which lies in the south of the troubled country.

Security forces battled the gunmen at the site, with nearby residents reporting hearing shots while smoke billowed into the air, with at least one building ablaze.

"It is a jihadist attack. Malian special forces intervened and about 20 hostages have been released," Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

"Unfortunately for the moment there are two dead, including a Franco-Gabonese."

An official from the security ministry confirmed earlier that Malian special forces, backed up by UN soldiers and troops from a French counter-terrorism force, "have sealed off the area and are in the process of organising operations" against the attackers.

The landlocked west African country has been fighting a jihadist insurgency for several years, with Islamist fighters roaming the north and centre of Mali.

'Increased threat of attacks'

Several people rescued at Kangaba said assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest), although no group has yet claimed responsibility.

The US embassy in Bamako had warned earlier this month "of a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship, and other locations in Bamako where Westerners frequent".

In November 2015, gunmen took guests and staff hostage at the luxury Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako in a siege that left at least 20 people dead, including 14 foreigners.

That attack was claimed by Al-Qaeda's North African affiliate Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

In March the same year, a grenade and gun attack on La Terrasse nightclub in Bamako killed five people, including foreigners.

The Kangaba, located on the eastern edge of Bamako, boasts accommodation in hut-style rooms, as well as restaurants and swimming pools, according to its website.

State of emergency

A state of emergency has been renewed several times since the Radisson Blu attack, most recently in April when it was extended for six months, but attacks are continuing.

In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

But jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels offering partial autonomy to the north.

Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and and west Africa, targeting locals and tourists.

In January 2016, 30 people were killed, including many foreigners, in an attack on a top Burkina Faso hotel and a nearby restaurant in the capital Ouagadougou. AQIM claimed the assault, saying the gunmen were from the Al-Murabitoun group of Algerian extremist Mokhtar Belmokhtar.

In March 2016, at least 14 civilians and two special forces troops were killed when gunmen stormed the Ivorian beach resort of Grand-Bassam, which was also claimed by AQIM.

The United Nations has a 12,000-strong force in Mali known as MINUSMA, which began operations in 2013.

It has been targeted constantly by jihadists, with dozens of peacekeepers killed, including five on Saturday.
Saudi naval forces fired warning shots and captured one of the vessels but two escaped, the statement added.

The seized craft was "loaded with weapons for subversive purposes", it said, but gave no details.

The statement said the boats carried "red and white flags".

Iran, which lies across the Gulf, has a flag of green, white and red stripes.

Saudi Arabia regularly accuses Shiite-dominated Iran of interfering in Middle Eastern countries, and has suggested it is linked to instability in the kingdom's east, where minority Shiites live.

Riyadh, the UAE, Egypt and others severed diplomatic and economic ties with Qatar two weeks ago, accusing Doha of supporting groups, including some backed by Iran, "that aim to destabilise the region".
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The visit of Steven Koutsis, Washington's charge d'affaires in Khartoum, also comes just weeks before President Donald Trump's administration decides whether to permanently lift a two-decades old US trade embargo on Sudan.

A joint report sent to the UN Security Council last month by the African Union and the United Nations recommends that the ceiling set for military troops be cut by 44 percent and the maximum number of police reduced by 30 percent in the UNAMID force.

Ahead of the expected drawdown, Koutsis embarked on a visit to Darfur for a first-hand assessment of the situation in the region.

The envoy met several Sudanese and UN officials, as well as tribal chiefs, academics and members of civil society groups in the North Darfur capital of El-Fashir.

"We are now discussing with UN the restructuring of UNAMID," he told North Darfur deputy governor Mohamed al-Nabi at a meeting attended by an AFP correspondent in what is a rare visit by the international media to the conflict-wracked region.

"Now the responsibility will fall on local authorities to bring security to the state."

Nabi assured Koutsis that Sudanese security forces were equipped to tackle the security situation, but Koutsis expressed his "concern" over their ability at a separate meeting with academics and university students.

He said he was concerned "whether the local government and the national government are prepared to assume responsibility of providing security" to the people of Darfur.

Darfur has been engulfed in conflict since 2003, when ethnic minority insurgents mounted a rebellion against President Omar al-Bashir, complaining that his Arab-dominated government in Khartoum was marginalising the region that is of the size of France.

Bashir launched a brutal counter-insurgency, and the United Nations says that at least 300,000 people have been killed in the conflict and another 2.5 million have been forced to flee their homes.

Sudanese officials claim the conflict in Darfur has ended, but reports of fighting between government forces and rebels continue to emerge.

The cuts to the UNAMID force would result in major savings to the UN peacekeeping budget at a time when Washington is seeking to reduce its financial contribution to the blue helmets.

UNAMID has a budget of $1.04 billion per year, making it one of the UN's costliest missions along with the UN force in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Washington is expected to decide next month on whether to permanently lift its trade embargo on Khartoum imposed in 1997.

Before leaving office, president Barack Obama eased US sanctions, but kept Khartoum on a six-month probation period before Washington formally lifts the trade embargo.

The sanctions were imposed over Khartoum's alleged support for Islamist groups.
But many others were less fortunate, losing their lives on the country's national route 236 which was transformed into a road of hell as the blaze ripped through the wooded countryside.

On Sunday afternoon, at least a dozen charred vehicles blocked the road linking the city of Figueiro dos Vinhos to Castanheira de Pera, sitting behind a barrier set up by officials near the village of Pobrais.

Prior, a 55-year-old bank employee, returned to the site where he nearly died.

After a visit with his brother in law in Vila Facaia, the men fled ahead of a sudden surge of flames whipped up by violent winds.

'Flames were everywhere'

"The entire zone was engulfed by the fire in the space of around 10 minutes," he said.

"We tried to get through on one side, then another, but the flames were everywhere."

"I finally abandoned my car, I climbed in my brother-in-law's car and we decided to tempt our luck: we charged through the flames."

The pair travelled "one or two kilometres in the middle of the flames", before reaching safety, on the other side of the blaze.

They did not see any firemen, he added.

At the side of the road, Luisilda Malheiro and her husband Eduardo Abreu, a couple of farmers, both 62, also escaped the hellish N-236.

But their haggard faces showed they were still in shock: they lost several neighbours who had tried to escape Pobrais.

The violence of the flames and speed with which the fire spread, were "incomprehensible", said Malheiro.

"We escaped in time, me on the tractor and he with our van," she added.

"Our house is still there but we lost everything else: the chickens, the rabbits and the ducks. We were only able to save two goats," she said.

A stunned population

Several kilometres away, a policeman kept journalists from approaching a burned car at the entrance to the village of Nodeirinho, surrounded by a forest of Eucalyptus trees and pines destroyed by the flames.

Small columns of grey smoke continued to rise from the blackened soil.

Three bodies, including one of an infant, were lying near the car, according to witnesses at the scene.

In Pedrogao Grande, the village where rescue services set up operations, the population remained stunned by the extent of the disaster.

Sitting in a cafe next to a woman in tears, Isabel Ferreira, 62, told AFP about what happened in Nodeirinho.

"I knew several of the victims. One of my colleagues lost her mother and her four-year-old girl as she could not get them out of the back of the car," she said.

"We have already had fires in the region but never any deaths," she added.
June 19, 2017

Rolls-Royce, Purdue, state of Indiana announce new initiative to develop next-generation jet engine components

Rolls-Royce, Purdue and the state of Indiana announce a new research agreement at the 2017 Paris Air Show. From left are Dan Hasler, chief entrepreneurial officer, Purdue Research Foundation; Chris Cholerton, Rolls-Royce, president, Defense Aerospace; Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb; Phil Burkholder, Rolls-Royce, president, Defense North America; Marion Blakey, president and CEO, Rolls-Royce North America; and, James Schellinger, Indiana secretary of commerce.

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WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., and PARIS  Rolls-Royce, Purdue University and the state of Indiana on Monday (June 19) announced a new $24 million jointly funded program during the International Paris Air Show that further strengthens the states leadership position in the aerospace industry.

This new initiative will establish unique gas turbine research capabilities at Purdues Zucrow Laboratories that will focus on advanced turbine aerodynamic and heat-transfer technologies. Rolls-Royce will apply these technologies to jet engine airfoil components  blades and vanes  in current and next-generation jet engines produced at the companys Indiana facilities.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is supporting this partnership with $6 million over the next three years through the Indiana 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, which promotes Indiana economic growth and innovation-driven public-private partnerships. Purdue University is supplying facilities and equipment infrastructure investments of $8 million, with Rolls-Royce committed to contribute up to $10 million.

A new turbine test rig will be installed and research will be done at the Purdue Experimental Turbine Aerothermal Laboratory, which is a recent expansion of the Zucrow Laboratories. Zucrow Laboratories, which is located in the Purdue Aerospace District, is one of the nation's largest university propulsion laboratories for research aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions for next-generation jet engines. Purdue has 40 faculty and graduate students working on current Rolls-Royce research projects.

Rolls-Royce continues to address our customers needs for powerful thrust and fuel efficiency. This agreement will allow us to work with Purdues innovative jet propulsion labs at Zucrow to construct modern, efficient advanced turbine airfoils for current and future engines, said Phil Burkholder, president, Defense Aerospace, Rolls-Royce North America.

Working together with the state of Indiana and Purdue University, we are strengthening the states aerospace industry. The strong relationships we enjoy in the state enable us to make significant and repeated investments like these in Indiana  from our recent $600 million facility modernization and technology initiative, to the opening of our facility earlier this year at Purdues new Aerospace District in West Lafayette, said Marion Blakey, president and CEO of Rolls-Royce North America. Together, we are ensuring that Indiana remains a leader in the aerospace industry for decades to come.

Purdue and Rolls-Royce have a long history of collaboration in research and development that leads ultimately to critical advances in the aerospace industry, said Purdue President Mitch Daniels. With the additional support from the state of Indiana, we look forward to even greater successes for our partners, our researchers and our students.

Here on the world stage of the Paris Air Show, Indianas leadership in the global aerospace industry is clear, said Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb. Many of the innovations were seeing presented on the trade show floor were fostered by key partnerships between our states universities and industry leaders. With this latest team-up between the state, Purdue and Rolls-Royce, I cant wait to see new turbine technology take flight in Indiana.

Turbine airfoils are individual components within a jet engine that extract energy from the high temperature, high pressure air produced by the combustor. They operate in the hottest part of the jet engine, in temperatures that are far greater than the melting point of metals. Engineering excellence, advanced materials and modern manufacturing methods help cool the turbine airfoils to provide optimum performance in this extreme environment.

A Legacy of Innovation

Rolls-Royce and Purdue have been working together on gas turbine research since Rolls-Royce purchased Allison Engine Company in 1995, continuing a decades-long relationship between Allison and Purdue. In 2003, Rolls-Royce recognized Purdue with a University Technology Center (UTC) designation for High Mach, the first such center in the U.S. This designation as a UTC inducted Purdue into a unique and exclusive Rolls-Royce network of prestigious research universities around the world. As a UTC, Purdue became a critical part of the companys technology development strategy. In 2016, Rolls-Royce elevated Purdue University to a status of global University Technology Partnership (UTP). Along with this recognition, Rolls-Royce committed to conduct at least $18.3 million in research with Purdue over the six years of 2015 through 2020.

About Rolls-Royce in Indiana

For over 100 years, Rolls-Royce and its predecessor companies have been engineering, designing and manufacturing advanced gas turbine technology in Indiana. Today, Rolls-Royce employs over 4,000 people in Indianapolis, with 1,050 working in production and nearly 1,400 engineers. Engines designed, assembled and tested at Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis power U.S. Department of Defense aircraft, civil helicopters, regional and business jets, and power systems for U.S. Naval vessels. These include the F-35B Lightning II; C-130J Super Hercules; V-22 Osprey; Global Hawk and Triton UAVs; various commercial helicopters and the new naval Ship-to-Shore Connector program. Rolls-Royce also operates an advanced aerospace technology research and design unit in Indianapolis, which is known as LibertyWorks.

Purdue University

Purdue University, a top public research institution, offers higher education at its highest proven value. Committed to affordability, the university has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels. Committed to student success, Purdue is changing the student experience with greater focus on faculty-student interaction and creative use of technology. Committed to pursuing scientific discoveries and engineered solutions, Purdue has streamlined pathways for faculty and student innovators who have a vision for moving the world forward.

About IEDC

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indianas economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 12-member board chaired by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

Media contacts: Brian Zink, Purdue University, 765-494-2080, bzink@purdue.edu

Joel P. Reuter, Rolls-Royce vice president for public affairs, 317-410-1000, joel.reuter@rolls-royce.com
BARRINGTON HILLS, Ill. (AP)  Animal activists and law enforcement officers are seeking information about the deaths of several coyote pups in a northwestern suburb of Chicago.

A fisherman found a burlap bag with seven 1-pound coyote pups in Penny Pond in Barrington Hills last month, and only one of the animals, now named Peace, survived. That pup suffered a badly injured leg, The Lake County News-Sun reported (http://trib.in/2rFfawg ).

"The leg was shattered  it was dangling and misshapen, and it was sticking out slightly because of a hip fracture," said Dawn Keller, an animal rehabber with Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation.

Keller has teamed up with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police, Cook County Forest Preserve Police and the Humane Society of the United States to bring attention to the coyote deaths.

"Coyotes are really misunderstood," she said.

State conservation officer Sgt. Jed Whitchurch calls the incident "a heinous wildlife crime."

"This was not a humane act," he said. "This is an unusual case  it's not the norm."

A reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible recently climbed to $8,000.

"Cold-case wildlife cases are tough. We're hoping with the financial reward someone with information will come forward and tell us," Whitchurch said.

The state Natural Resources Department says that about 7,000 coyotes are taken through hunting or trapping each year in Illinois. About 75 percent of those are taken by hunters and about 25 percent by trapping, which is restricted to fall and winter months.

___

Information from: Lake County News-Sun, http://newssun.chicagotribune.com/
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Sentence given to Moscow unauthorized rally participant takes effect

MOSCOW, June 19 (RAPSI, Yevgeniya Sokolova)  The Moscow City Court had upheld a sentence given to Yury Kuliy, who is to spend 8 months in a penal colony settlement for attacking a police officer at the unauthorized rally in Moscow on March 26, RAPSI learnt at the courts press office on Monday.

By its decision, the court dismissed an appeal against an earlier ruling of the Moscow Tverskoy District Court.

Kuliy has been charged with attacking a police officer by gripping his arm. The case was examined under a special procedure, since the defendant had pleaded guilty.

Earlier, the Tverskoy District Court of Moscow sentenced another participant of rally in Moscow, Alexander Shpakov, to 1.5 years in a penal colony for violence against representative of authority. According to investigators, Shpakov punched a police officer in the face trying to open a door of a bus containing people arrested during the unauthorized rally on March 26.

According to the Main Directorate of the Interior Ministry for Moscow, about 500 people were arrested on March 26 during the unauthorized rally. Overall number of people present in the area at the time was estimated at as high as 8,000 people. One of the police officers received injuries, a criminal case was launched over this incident.

According to the Russian opposition politician Alexey Navalny, arrested during the rally, Moscow authorities refused to greenlight the rally in the citys center and proposed alternative areas only a day before it was to take place. Navalny said that in this case Russian legislation allows organizers to hold an event at the area, which was listed first.
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Greenfield Middle School students in the band program play with Lucky Chops, a band out of New York City, who stopped by the Greenfield Middle School after hearing how popular they were with students in the band program. June 16, 2017. Recorder Staff/Paul FranzPaul Franz

Lucky Chops, a band out of New York City, stopped by the Greenfield Middle School after hearing how popular they were with students in the band program. They were to play at the Hawk and Reed Performance Center in Greenfield on Friday night. June 16, 2017. Recorder Staff/Paul FranzPaul Franz

Lucky Chops, a band out of New York City, stopped by the Greenfield Middle School after hearing how popular they were with students in the band program. They were to play at the Hawk and Reed Performance Center in Greenfield on Friday night. June 16, 2017. Recorder Staff/Paul FranzPaul Franz

Greenfield Middle School student Averry Jacobs, right, plays his baritone sax with Lucky Chops, a band out of New York City, who stopped by the Greenfield Middle School Friday after hearing how popular they were with students in the band program. Recorder Staff/Paul Franz

GREENFIELD  Three oclock was fast approaching but the band room was still a-banging with music.

Middle-schoolers refrained from taking out cell phones to take selfies and instead just pleaded for old-school autographs from the band that had just jammed out on stage on the auditorium, hours before heading to the Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center  formerly, the Arts Block  for an evening show.

Lucky Chops, a jam, brass band based out of New York City and preparing to leave for a show in Paris on Saturday to kick off their summer-long Europe tour, came to Greenfield Middle School to perform a free show for the students.

It all started with the band students latching onto the enthusiastic band that first started out together in high school just over a decade ago and went from performing on street corners to traveling through 26 countries in a year.

One student, seventh-grader Averry Jacobs, got his classmates and his music teacher Ariel Templeton  who ultimately was able to bring the band to the school  into the New York groups music.

Jacobs, who plays several instruments but his favorite is the baritone saxophone, was browsing jazz music online.

I saw this YouTube channel, and I thought this was the coolest thing ever, Jacobs said about Lucky Chops YouTube channel. I have to play these songs.

Soon enough his classmates all wanted to play the songs and they became many of the students favorite band.

Then, Jacobs got an opportunity of a lifetime  the band invited him to come up and perform with them while they performed for the packed auditorium that was jumping out of their seats with music in their bones.

When they first called me up there I was like, I dont know whats going to happen, Jacobs said. I was so scared at first but I got into it ... and jammed with them.

Jacobs got to do his own solos. Later on, dozens of students came onto the stage, but for his favorite song, Coco, it was just him and the band and the crowd chanting Averry! Averry! Averry!

Afterward, the band gave him a Lucky Chops T-shirt and he was indeed in awe.

Averry is an amazing student and this is a dream come true for him, Templeton said.

One student asked one of the players for his Miami Marlins T-shirt he was wearing, with cutoff sleeves. Eventually, the musician gave the middle schooler the shirt. Others settled for simple autographs on whatever they could find.

It was clear that these artists had become musical role models for many of the band students.

Templeton said they had written to the band asking them if they could come play at the school when they were here for their concert in Greenfield.

I wrote them on the whim, hoping they would say yes, Templeton said.

And when they found out they would come, and play for free: We couldnt believe it, Templeton added. I waited a little while to tell the kids. It was very hard to keep the secret.

It was the first middle school that the Lucky Chops has played at, too, their bandmates said. The students immediately popped out of the auditorium seats and started dancing to the opening number. During a rendition of Eye of the Tiger, kids grooved in their seats. Afterward, they peppered the band with endless questions, having to be ended by the teachers needing them to get back to class as the school day neared its end.

Right away, people were just screaming in the crowd, band member Josh Holka said. We encourage people to express themselves.

His bandmate, Darro Behroozi, added: Its always really inspiring for us to experience that. Becoming a great musician a lot of it is like becoming a kid again.

By the end of the school day, it was just a great moment for the band to find another way to inspire people to play jazz instruments and have fun while at it.

Its cool because you can connect with everybody in a different type of way, Behroozi said. You feel life going at a different pace and different priorities that people got going on but still were able to connect with them through music.
'If the government had not spent an incredible amount of energy on demonetisation it may -- may, because it had not done anything the previous six months either -- have been able to pay attention to the deeper problems of low investment and job creation.'

Dr C Rammanohar Reddy, the economist who edited the Economic and Political Weekly for 12 years, is the author of the widely acclaimed book, Demonetisation and Black Money.

Dr Reddy tells Rediff.com's Prasanna D Zore in an email interview how Prime Minister Narendra Modi's demonetisation gambit has affected India's growth.

How has demonetisation affected India's economic growth in the light of the economic data for the last two quarters of the financial year ending March 31, 2017?

It was always known that demonetisation would in the first case have a temporary negative impact on growth and perhaps even permanent impact on some parts of the informal sector.

All production and input data for November-January showed that -- output of cement and steel was affected, bank credit growth had slowed, production of two-wheelers declined, etc.

The advance estimates of growth in 2016-17 presented in February 2017 which said growth in the last quarter and all of 2016-17 had remained unaffected contradicted all this information.

This seemed to suggest that demonetisation was a 'success.'

But it was known at that time that there was a problem with these numbers because they did not fully reflect the slowdown in the informal sector for which data would come in only later.

The revised estimates for 2016-17 presented in May shower a truer, but not yet complete picture.

Growth plummeted in the last quarter to 6.1 per cent.

If you take out sectors like government which are not affected by demonetisation growth was actually much lower, under 4 per cent.

Over the course of the year, these numbers will be further revised -- as more accurate data for the informal sector in 2016-17 come in.

When they do, we will see what a disastrous impact demonetisation had on GDP growth in 2016-17, an impact which in some sectors is continuing now even six months later.

What would India's economic growth look like if there was no demonetisation?

It is difficult to be precise with a counter-factual, but one can speculate.

First, we now know that overall the economy is not in good shape.

Growth was slowing prior to demonetisation; private investment was also falling (rather than picking up as promised by 'acche din').

These problems were exacerbated by demonetisation.

Second, if the government had not spent an incredible amount of energy on demonetisation it may -- may, because it had not done anything the previous six months either -- have been able to pay attention to the deeper problems of low investment and job creation.

Demonetisation was a distraction, a destructive distraction.

Could you help us understand which sectors of the Indian economy benefited the most and which were affected the worst because of demonetisation?

The sectors that were adversely affected the most were those in the larger informal sector in rural and urban India, in manufacturing and services.

We do not know yet, but industry association surveys said at the time that hundreds of thousands of micro and small enterprises either had to pull up their shutters or had to shift to lower production levels.

Retail outlets saw business plummet.

All this had an impact on workers.

Casual workers saw delayed wage payments, layoffs and the migrant workers returned to their villages.

All this we know from demonetisation.

It is now emerging that some parts of the organised sector were, contrary to earlier expectations, also affected.

Which sectors benefited? It is hard to say if any benefited!

Perhaps the fintech (financial technology) industry with companies like Paytm gained because of the shortage of cash and the push to digital.

But we should now -- with the eruption in the agriculture sector -- be absolutely clear that demonetisation which was ill-thought out, and also poorly planned and executed was a bad thing to do in the short-term with limited tangible impacts even in the long term.

Is the current state of India's agrarian economy and the consequent uproar among the farming community for loan waivers in anyway linked to demonetisation?

When demonetisation was announced, it was felt by many (and I was one of them) that in cash-dependent agriculture, the shortage of cash would affect the rabi output of 2016-17.

But that did not happen.

In fact, there was a record harvest.

It seems that farmers wanted to make the best of a good monsoon which came after the drought of 2016.

They seem to have taken substantial credit (from moneylenders and traders) and this way dealt with the shortage of cash.

However, it is now turning out that demonetisation had an impact on marketing of this record harvest.

Trading and settlements in mandis was earlier in cash.

The government at the Centre and then the states rammed through cheque payment/digital settlement.

Observers have since pointed out on the basis of field reports that traders were not comfortable with that; farmers wanted payment in cash... the overall impact was that mandis worked at much lower levels than normal.

Farm prices therefore collapsed in a number of areas and for a number of crops other than cereals for which there is an effective MSP system.

The end result is that the bumper harvest has brought lower incomes and higher debt to agriculture -- a direct fallout of demonetisation.

Of course, there are other reasons for the current difficulties faced by the farming sector -- changes in import duties, the absence of storage and processing facilities for fruits and vegetables, etc.

But demonetisation increased the burden on the farming community and that was coming.

Would you, if possible with statistics, say that demonetisation did have an impact on agricultural income and output?

I am afraid there is no estimate or research of this kind available as of now.

It will take time before the government or independent academics arrive at such estimates of some accuracy.

What kind of gains, if any, has demonetisation achieved when one compares them with what Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it would do to creation and circulation of black money, weeding out unaccounted wealth, and corruption?

Here again, we have no clear benefits.

Seven months after demonetisation, we still do not know how much of 'black money' held in the form of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 was 'destroyed' by holders of black wealth.

The RBI says it is still cross-checking, validating the returned notes.

It is absurd that this is taking so long.

However, it seems quite clear that the delay is because the RBI has found that most of the Rs 500/Rs 1,000 notes in circulation have been returned, legally or by laundering.

And they are all in the banking system. Very little was 'destroyed'.

The last official figures in mid-December 2016 showed that over 85 per cent of the demonetised currency was deposited in banks.

When the final figures come in, we will know that from this perspective demonetisation was a failure.

This only confirms the critics' views who pointed out that very little of black money was held as cash and that which was would be laundered by the holders of black wealth.

On corruption... do you see any less of it around us?

Petty, medium and high-level corruption continues as before.

The government has also tried to put out the narrative that as a result of demonetisation the tax payer population has increased and tax payments too.

In a temporary way tax payments did increase -- holders of black money declared much of that as white and paid tax on it.

But will this be a permanent impact? I doubt it.

Preliminary analysis also shows that the increase in tax payers in 2016-17 -- as claimed by the finance ministry -- has not been much more than in the past.

Then there is the claim of 'formalisation of the informal'.

The informal sector is very large and heterogeneous and covers everything from pavement vegetable vendors to name plate companies which do outsourced work to avoid falling in the tax bracket or adhere to labour regulations.

The latter may -- with GST -- come into the tax bracket, but a larger formalisation? I doubt it, I would put it stronger.

It is an absurd argument to say agriculture, rural construction, vegetable vendors, motor mechanic workshops etc will be 'formalised' with digitalisation.

On digitalisation itself, the growth in November-December has fallen off.

The behaviour of the volume and value of digital payments has been erratic since January.

But this much is clear, there is no consistent growth; people have returned to cash when they can.

You can't ram digitalisation down people's throats.

And there are any number of infrastructural, behavioural and security issues to deal with first.

Should governments across India -- now that Uttar Pradesh has already done it, Maharashtra has accepted 'conditional', 'in principle' farm loan waivers -- accept the farmers' demand for farm loan waivers?

Farm loan waiver is in principle not a good thing.

It creates a moral hazard -- farmers in future will be encouraged not to pay back bank loans.

And in any case, farmers depend on banks and institutional sources for just about half of their credit needs.

The larger credit challenge is left untouched.

The bigger problem is that a loan waiver addresses only the symptom of a deeper set of difficulties.

It may give farmers -- and only those who can avail of farm loans -- temporary relief and buys state government some time, but it is not a solution.

It will, of course, worsen state government finances.

It is a bit odd that the central government which has encouraged the culture of loan waivers (through the ruling party's manifesto for UP, etc) is now signalling to the states that they are on their own, and they won't get support for loan waivers.

Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters
The rush for prohibition and the Supreme Courts decision to ban liquor sales within 500 metres from highways have hurt companies.

IMAGE: At around 65,000 licensed liquor shops across the country, Indias outlet penetration for spirits per 1,000 people is low, sector experts say. Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters.

Indias move to be austere when it comes to its drinking habits seems to be driving liquor companies up a wall.

After seeing its slowest growth in over a decade in 2016-17, the new fiscal appears to not hold much promise for the countrys liquor majors.



The cumulative sales decline due to the ban on serving alcohol 500 metres from highways, which came into effect on April 1, as well as prohibition in states such as Bihar, is 10 per cent for the months of April and May 2017, persons in the know have told Rediff.com.



The forecast is that 2017-18 will be challenging for most liquor majors as the highway ban continues. The implementation of the Goods & Services Tax is also set to disrupt the trade.



I do expect that the highway ban will continue to hurt performance for the next few quarters and the GST implementation is likely to create operational disruption at a macro level which could impact our FY18 short-term performance, Anand Kripalu, chief executive officer, United Spirits, the countrys largest spirits maker, said recently in an investor concall.





IMAGE: Madhya Pradesh, for the record, joins a list of states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Bihar that have either enforced complete or partial prohibition over the past year. States such as Gujarat, Nagaland, Mizoram and the Union territory of Lakshadweep are already among Indias dry regions. A roller crushes bottles of seized illegal liquor at Koba village, about 18 km from Ahmedabad. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters.

Last month, French major Pernod Ricard, maker of brands such as Blenders Pride, Royal Stag and Imperial Blue in India, had already indicated when announcing its March quarter results that the forthcoming months would be tough in view of the highway ban that has seen liquor shops and bars move away from the state and national highways.



Analysts expect Pernod Ricard, which is the countrys second-largest spirits maker, and also the most profitable player in the business, to see at least two quarters of deceleration in sales growth in FY18.



While states such as Maharashtra have attempted to circumvent the ban by denotifying some of their highways, Abneesh Roy, senior vice-president, research, institutional equities, Edelweiss, says there will be short-term pain.



No fresh licence will be issued and no licence will be renewed for the existing shops on highways, he says. A ban has also been proposed on signboards and advertisements for liquor shops on highways. This certainly can have significant impact on the volumes of liquor companies in the short term. As such, in large cities, space is an issue, so relocation of shops will not be easy.



At around 65,000 licensed liquor shops across the country, Indias outlet penetration for spirits per 1,000 people is low, sector experts say. The highway ban, they say, has meant that at least 20-30 per cent of these outlets have had to shut shop for want of space in the last two months.





IMAGE: The cumulative sales decline due to the ban on serving alcohol 500 metres from highways, like at this bar along the Mumbai-Nashik highway, which came into effect on April 1, as well as prohibition in states such as Bihar, is 10 per cent for the months of April and May 2017. Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters.

Collateral damage



A recent Crisil report said that 25 to 30 per cent of premium hotels, which are located within 500 metres of state and national highways and serve alcohol, would be affected by the ban. The report says that hotels located in cities such as Pune, Kolkata and Agra will be most impacted thanks to their proximity to highways.



'An additional problem is the surge in competition. Hotels within cities will now pose as competition to premium (5-star) hotels on highways. The competition will not be restricted to premium-segment, but will also trickle down to the 4- star and 3-star categories,' the report said.



According to industry estimates, liquor sales alone account for close to a third of the food & beverage revenues of five-star hotels. A ban then hardly augurs well for liquor majors, who depend on hotels besides retail shops for sales.



'While the Supreme Courts judgment is undoubtedly in public interest, and aimed at dealing with road accidents caused due to drunken driving on highways, hotels (and liquor companies in the process) will face sweeping changes in the way they function,' Crisil said in its report.



But the bigger worry is the threat of more regulatory action against an industry viewed as being sinful.



While alcohol has not been included under GST, the concern among most players has been whether more states will do what Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand announced recently: banning alcohol in a phased manner.



Madhya Pradesh, for the record, joins a list of states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Bihar that have either enforced complete or partial prohibition over the past year. States such as Gujarat, Nagaland, Mizoram and the union territory of Lakshadweep are already among Indias dry regions.





IMAGE: While alcohol has not been included under GST, the concern among most players has been whether more states will do what Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand announced recently: banning alcohol in a phased manner. Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters.

The worry of prohibition is always there, especially when states are going to the polls. To me, these measures are nothing but political moves, says the chief executive of a top liquor company. By doing this, what you encourage is bootlegging, which hardly serves the purpose of social reform. Not to mention the loss of revenue to the state, he adds.



Liquor in India is a state subject, contributing 25 to 40 per cent in terms of revenue to the state exchequer. In the last few years, states such as Karnataka and Maharashtra have slapped higher taxes on alcohol in a bid to improve revenues. The move to keep alcohol out of GST, say experts, is partly linked to state governments needs to ensure their revenues are not impacted because of a uniform GST rate.



With the growing threat of prohibition, increased taxation and regulatory action, the 330-million-case domestic liquor market is witnessing a decline.
And since social media platforms benefit from it, shouldn't they be held responsible for the hate and fake news they spread, asks Vanita Kohli-Khandekar.

IMAGE: Given that many of the cases of lynching, some of the riots and conflicts that have happened in India recently have turned out to be a result of a fake video or WhatsApp message, it is important to remember that Google, Facebook or Twitter actively monetise what we post or forward. Photograph: Anne Ruthmann/Flickr.

Should technology companies and platforms be responsible for the hate and fake news they spread?

If you spend 30 minutes on Twitter you are bound to get upset about something or the other.

There are comments that incite people to violence by members of Parliament and even ministers, at times.

There are obscene, abusive comments suggesting violence, especially against female journalists.

On Facebook, every few days a friend or a colleague expresses visceral dislike, advocates or condones violence and abuse of other human beings in the name of religion or nationalism.

And this is not just in India. People around the world seem to be swimming in hatred and bile.

You could argue that hatred and conflict have been part of human evolution, so how can technology or social media be held responsible. Because just like mass media, social media, too, has the power to amplify a message.

The big difference is that mass media is governed by laws of defamation, libel and other acts that restrain it from abusing its power to amplify. There is largely nothing that stops someone from creating a completely fake factoid on, say, Jawaharlal Nehru and circulating it via WhatsApp, Twitter or Facebook. Many of the cases of lynching, some of the riots and conflicts that have happened in India recently have turned out to be a result of a fake video or WhatsApp message.

If Star, Zee, NDTV or The Indian Express among others are subject to press laws, should Google, WhatsApp and the others be, too?

This is the first point to consider on the question this column asks.

The second is whether platforms and tech firms should edit content.

"The internet is the First Amendment (under the US Constitution) come to life," reckons Jeff Jarvis, a New York-based journalism professor and proponent of an open web.

"With free speech comes bad speech. Free speech also includes the right to edit. However, Twitter's value is its openness and that is why they would not want to edit. It is up to us to develop norms of civility if we don't want them to edit," points out Jarvis.

He is right -- free speech and privacy both become victims in any attempt to regulate the internet or the platforms that dominate it.

However, Google, Facebook or Twitter actively monetise what we post or forward. And they do it very well. Google (under its holding company Alphabet) is the largest media owner in the world, with $79.4 billion in ad revenues in 2016, says a Zenith Media report. Facebook is the second largest.

There is serious money in the business of lies, and many platforms and creators benefit from it.

A case in point is Jestin Coler, who began writing fake news stories in 2013. Hundreds of (right-wing) websites happily picked these up and spread them around. The handful of sites he had set up, including nationalreport.net, got 100 million page views peddling completely fake stuff on politics et al.

The contributors who were paid through Google AdSense made more money than others in the genre, said Coler in an interview to Nieman Reports. As the owner of Disinfomedia, he made between $10,000 and $30,000 a month.

This is possible because of programmatic advertising software. It places ads based on page views, engagement and metrics that it reads. So, a brand from, say, a Unilever or Procter & Gamble could be on a site selling pirated films or a jihadi speech.

These "bad ads" are now causing huge churn in several markets. In the UK, for instance, members of Parliament are baying for more controls.

Facebook and others have set up serious initiatives to tackle fake news. Maybe something will come of it.

Abhinav Shrivastava, senior associate with the law offices of Nandan Kamath in Bengaluru, thinks that this setting up of voluntary controls is the best way to balance the conflicting interests of free speech, an open internet with less hate and lies. Maybe.

But there still remains one more philosophical question: If technology simply enabled hate that was already there, what will it take for humanity to let it go?
Gurung is worth his weight in gold to the BJP which is trying hard to make inroads in West Bengal, reports Aditi Phadnis.

IMAGE: Bimal Gurung is the chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration which has the partial autonomy to run Darjeeling. Photograph: Kind courtesy Bimal Gurung/Facebook

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called in two columns of the army in Darjeeling last week after supporters of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha -- the Bharatiya Janata Party ally that is the dominant political party in the hills -- threw stones at the police who lathi-charged and tear-gassed them.

Banerjee, who was in Darjeeling, stayed back there to ensure that tourists exited safely.

Her decision that Bengali would be made compulsory in schools from Classes 1 to 10 had angered the inhabitants of the hills.

The chief minister did a bit of a roll-back and said later that Bengali is not a must in Darjeeling.

But the Morcha wanted a cabinet resolution in writing to the effect.

Bimal Gurung, leader of the Morcha and chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration which has the partial autonomy to run Darjeeling's administration, led the protest.

IMAGE: Fiery protests in the Hills led to violence on Saturday, June 17, 2017, during which GJM supporters torched police vehicles. Photograph: Ashok Bhaumik/PTI Photo

Gurung made headlines in 2007 when he started the new Gorkhaland Andolan after Gorkha National Liberation Front supremo Subhash Ghisingh was evicted from power.

Gurung, who piggybacked Indian Idol III Prashant Tamang, a Kolkata Gorkha policeman and the only Nepali to win the singing contest, galvanised all Indian Gorkhas to help them discover their common identity.

Indian Gorkhas are distinct from Nepali Gorkhas and are scattered all over the country, notably in Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, North Bengal, Sikkim, the Dooars, and the North-East.

Like the Jews once, they are in search of a homeland.

Perception differences and government policy have simultaneously blurred and accentuated the identity crisis.

They see Banerjee as a big threat to this identity.

IMAGE: The protests in Darjeeling erupted on June 8, 2017 and despite Mamata Banerjee rolling back on the compulsory Bengali rule, the protests continue. Photograph: Ashok Bhaumik/PTI Photo

Gurung is the undisputed leader of the GJM in an area that has the largest concentration of Indian Gorkhas -- Kurseong, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and parts of the Dooars.

It has a Gorkha population of nearly 2.2 million compared to 600,000 in Sikkim, which became a state in 1975 following Indian annexation.

The region is of great strategic value. It is contiguous -- or nearly contiguous -- to four countries -- Nepal, China, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

The vulnerable Chicken's Neck and the Siliguri Corridor and the National Highway 31 A to Sikkim, along with the only road and rail links to the North-East along the Tiger and Sevok bridges, lie in this area.

Although Ghisingh started the Gorkhaland movement in the 1980s, he left behind a legacy riddled with corruption and tarnished with the charge of sleeping with the enemy -- West Bengal.

Gurung was the chela who overtook the guru.

He is determined and tough, and sounds just a little bit like Hitler in his style of oratory.

Gurung is, right now, worth his weight in gold to the BJP which is trying hard to make inroads in West Bengal.

By all accounts, the GJM is a well-knit organisation and hugely motivated.

The 30,000 ex-servicemen, together with a growing students wing, make a powerful team.

It was Gurung who sent Jaswant Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Darjeeling, and later got S S Ahluwalia elected.

The TMC sees Gurung as a rival and a roadblock.

But Gurung is going nowhere -- as long as he has the BJP by his side.

The Darjeeling hills, he reckons, are his so long as the cry of 'Aayo Gorkhali' reverberates.

The TMC is equally clear that the GJM has to be unseated. It is in this struggle that Gurung's politics thrives.
The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday went to Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jains residence to seek clarifications from his wife in connection with an ongoing inquiry into allegations of money laundering against him.

CBI sources said the agency had sought time from the ministers wife.

The Aam Aadmi Party accused the central government of vendetta politics.

Central govt (sic) of BJP is misusing CBI for its vendetta politics. After Dy CM Manish Sisodia, BJP's CBI raids on Minister, the party said in a tweet.

The CBI had registered a preliminary enquiry against the AAP minister in connection with the allegations of money laundering in April. He was recently examined by the agency in connection with the probe.

Jain is alleged to be involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, CBI sources said.

Jain had dismissed the allegations after the Enforcement Directorate last month attached properties linked to him in the matter.

A PE is the first step by the CBI to gather information about allegations.

If the agency is convinced that there exists prima facie material in the matter, it may register a regular case against the accused.

Allegations against Jain also include purported money laundering to the tune of Rs 11.78 crore during 2010-12 through these companies and Indometal Impex Pvt Limited.

IMAGE: Satyender Jain.
Tata Group and American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin on Monday signed an "unprecedented" deal to produce, operate and export the combat-proven F-16 fighters in India, boosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' plan ahead of his first summit with United States President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, Lockheed will shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to India without directly affecting American jobs, a campaign pledge of Trump who has vowed to put "America First".

The deal announced during the Paris Airshow between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Lockheed Martin is ideally suited to meet Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs.

According to defence experts, the Indian Air Force needs around 200 medium weight category aircraft and currently does not operate F-16s. The deal is going to be among the largest projects under the Make in India initiative.

In August last year, Lockheed had offered to move its lone production line the F 16-Block 70 from Texas to India, the world's top defence importer. It, however, had made clear the proposal was "conditional" to Indian Air Force choosing the fighters for its fleet.

In February this year, Lockheed had said this unique opportunity strengthens the strategic ties between the US and India. Around the same time, the defence major had also said that it has briefed the Trump administration on the deal which was supported by the previous Obama administration as part of a broader cooperative dialogue with India.

The announcement of the deal comes a week ahead of Modi's first bilateral meeting with Trump after the billionaire tycoon became the president of the United States in January. Modi will be on a two-day visit to the US from June 25.

The agreement was signed by Sukaran Singh, CEO of TASL, and George Standridge, vice president of Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons, and Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, were also present.

The two companies said this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports New Delhi's initiative to develop private aerospace and defence manufacturing capacity in the country under the 'Make in India' initiative.

"This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies," said N Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

The company said the "unprecedented" F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defence contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the centre of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world.

"Lockheed Martin is honoured to partner with Indian defence and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 programme," said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.

"Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make In India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India," he said.

The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASL's proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter.

With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced.

Lockheed Martin claims the F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered. And TASL, a Tata Group firm, is focused on providing integrated solutions for aerospace, defence and homeland security.

Last year, India agreed to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from France for around USD 8.9 billion.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Lockheed Martin
Who can vote, who can't vote and how will the polls take place?

Meghna Sen explains everything to know about the Presidential election.

As Pranab Mukherjee's term ends on July 24, the Election Commission has announced that voting to elect India's next President will be held on July 17, with counting on July 20, if needed.

Although no political parties have come up with the names of candidates, the balance of advantage is with the ruling National Democratic Alliance.

Who can vote

The electoral college comprises elected members of both Houses of Parliament and elected members of the legislative assemblies of all states, besides Delhi and Puducherry.

A total of 4,896 voters, comprising 4,120 members of legislative assemblies and 776 elected members of Parliament.

Who cannot vote

Nominated members of the Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha and legislative assemblies do not have the right to vote. Nor do members of the legislative councils.

Unlike the Lok Sabha and assembly elections in India, the Presidential election does not have an electronic voting system using EVMs.

The Election Commission will supply a special pen to all voters to mark their choice of candidate on ballot papers.

The elector has to mark preferences against the names of the candidates.

While marking of the first preference is compulsory for the ballot paper to be valid, other preferences are optional.

Polling will take place in Parliament House and on the premises of legislative assemblies.

The Constitution has expressly provided that the election shall be by secret ballot.

The procedure, laid down in the 1974 Rules, provides that after marking the vote, the elector is required to fold the ballot paper and insert it in the ballot box.

No Whip

Political parties cannot issue any whip to their MPs and MLAs for this election.

Nomination of candidates

The nomination paper of a candidate has to be subscribed by at least 50 electors as proposers and by at least another 50 electors as seconders.

A security deposit of Rs 15,000 is also needed.
Around 2,000 Gorkha Muslims staged a protest march supporting the Gorkha Jamukti Morcha cause.

Avishek Rakshit reports.

IMAGE: Muslims on Sunday, June 18, participated in a silent rally to demand a separate state -- Gorkhaland. Photograph: Ashok Bhaumik/PTI Photo

The demand for Gorkhaland has crossed ethnic boundaries.

Muslims and a part of the Rajasthani population have joined in to demand a separate statehood for the Darjeeling Hills, amid larger protests led by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha.

Around 2,000 Muslims who identified themselves as Gorkha Muslims on Sunday, June 18, took out a protest march holding placards which read 'We want Gorkhaland and we support Bimal Gurung', indicating their support to the GJM's call for Gorkhaland.

The GJM has been demanding that a separate state be carved out for the ethnic Gorkha and Lepcha population in northern West Bengal.

"We support the issue and demand Gorkhaland. The Muslims, who number around 20,000 to 25,000 here identify themselves as Gorkha Muslims and live here peacefully," Mustaq Usmani, a local businessman participating in the protest march, said.

"We have been living here for generations and do not face any problems with the Gorkhas," Usmani added.

The Muslims, in line with Amar Singh Rai -- the GJM MLA from Darjeeling -- are of the view that the state government has failed to address the problems of infrastructure, education and health in the hilly terrain and has mishandled the current situation.

"The situation could have been handled in a more peaceful way. By sending the police, the paramilitary and the army, the state government is trying to intimidate the local population and present a political movement as a law and order situation," Rai said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday alleged that GJM has links with terror organisations based in north-east India. Rai termed the claim as "laughable."

Rai, a senior GJM leader, said his party is open to talks with the Centre with two preconditions.

First, the GJM wants the security forces deployed throughout Darjeeling to be withdrawn and the sole discussion point has to be the creation of Gorkhaland.

The state government, Rai added, can be part of these talks if these preconditions are met.

"This time we will not settle for anything else than full-fledged statehood and will not consider the creation of any autonomous body like the GTA or its predecessor," the MLA said.

IMAGE: The Muslims have been living with the Gorkhas in the area for many years and support them in their demands. Photograph: Ashok Bhaumik/PTI Photo

Like the state government, the GJM is also unhappy with the Narendra Modi-led government's stance.

"Two times, we elected BJP representatives thinking they would help us with the demand for Gorkhaland. But we are just pawns in the hands of the Centre and are absolutely not happy with the Centre's role in the present situation," Rai said.

He felt the state government first made the major blunder by announcing Bengali as a compulsory language and then mishandled the situation as it escalated.

Although Chief Minister Banerjee had clarified that Bengali is an optional language in the hills, the GJM wants this assurance as a state cabinet resolution.
National Democratic Alliance constituents barring the Shiv Sena on Monday welcomed the nomination of Ram Nath Kovind for the president's post while Opposition parties seemed not impressed and sought to keep up the suspense on extending their support and may even put up a joint candidate.

With both the names suggested by it -- RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and noted agriculturist M S Swaminathan -- rejected, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that the Dalit candidate was chosen merely for vote-bank politics.

The Sena will take a final decision on Tuesday regarding its support to 71-year-old Kovind, who is the governor of Bihar.

The name of Kovind, who has served two terms as Rajya Sabha MP from Bharatiya Janata Party and was also the party's Dalit wing head, was announced by Amit Shah.

The BJP chief hoped that there will be a consensus on his name.

The Congress, however, spurned the BJP's appeal for consensus on its choice and said the opposition would take a call on contesting the election after a meeting on June 22.

The BJP had taken a "unilateral decision", Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said soon after the announcement.

"The Congress does not want to comment on this issue as we want to take a unanimous decision with all other opposition parties on the presidential elections. The final call will be taken in a meeting of all opposition parties on June 22," he said.

On the BJP fielding a Dalit candidate, Azad said, "... I don't want to comment on this... I don't want to comment on the merits and demerits of the candidate."

Sources in the Left parties said the Opposition may field a joint candidate and the issue will be discussed at the June 22 meeting.

Former Lok Sabha speaker Meira Kumar, ex-Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde; Bharipa Bahujan Mahasangh leader and grandson of Dr B R Ambedkar, Prakash Yashwant, and retired diplomat Gopal Krishna Gandhi are some of the names the opposition parties are considering.

Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu, who was part of the three-member panel formed to hold discussions and build a consensus on a presidential candidate, said the suggestions of opposition parties played a role in the NDA picking Kovind.

"I hope they (opposition) should not have any reason now to oppose the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind because of his background, non-controversial nature, and also sound legal and social background," he said.

Communist Party of India national secretary D Raja, however, said Naidu and Rajnath Singh, who was also part of the panel, had not propose any name.

"Now, they have named a person with RSS background. We are against it, but we will have to discuss the issue within the CPI and with other opposition parties. A meeting will be held soon to discuss the same," he said.

Virtually expressing her party's reservation about the candidature of Kovind, Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee said he was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha in the past.

"There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him," she said in a statement.

"The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate."

Communist Party of India-Marxist general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the BJP "unilaterally" selected Kovind and the non-NDA parties will take the decision "keeping in mind the country's history that the ruling and opposition parties contested the polls on all occasion except once".

He said it was the NDA's proposal that it would get back to the opposition after zeroing on a candidate.

"They did not come back to the opposition and announced the candidate," he said.

The Nationalist congress Party also said the future course of action by the opposition parties will be decided in the June 22 meet.

In Lucknow, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said her party is positive about the nomination but wished the NDA had named a non-political Dalit candidate for the top post.

"Although Kovind has been associated with the RSS and the BJP from the beginning but since he is a Dalit, our party's stand towards him cannot be negative. It will be positive, provided Opposition parties do not field any Dalit for the post who is more capable and popular than him," she said.

"Had the BJP and NDA brought any non-political Dalit for the post, it would have been better," she said.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed happiness over the state governor's candidature for the president's post, but stopped short of committing support to the NDA nominee.

"In my capacity as the Bihar Chief Minister, it is a matter of happiness that our governor has been declared as the candidate for the next president of India," he told reporters in Patna after paying a courtesy call to Kovind at the Raj Bhawan.

CPI general secretary Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy said the Opposition parties must put up their candidate against Kovind as he is from the ranks of the RSS.

"Anybody from RSS rank will further divide the country. The three-year rule of the BJP government has divided the country. We feel that definitely there is a need for a democratic candidate, not from hardcore of the RSS," he said.

In Bhubaneswar, Biju Janata Dal president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced his party's support to Kovind.

Lok Janshakti Party chief and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan extended full support to Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The ruling TRS in Telangana and the ruling TDP and opposition YSR Congress party in Andhra Pradesh also backed Kovind's candidate and pledged their support to him.

IMAGE: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi after he was elected as NDA's presidential candidate. Photograph: PIB
Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President and continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden and marginalised, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday.

His remarks came hours after the Bharatiya Janata Party Parliamentary Board declared Bihar Governor Kovind as the National Democratic Alliances choice for President.

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised, the prime minister tweeted.

He said with an illustrious background in the legal arena, Kovinds knowledge and understanding of the Constitution will benefit the nation.

Modi pointed out that Kovind, a farmers son, comes from a humble background.

He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor & marginalised, he said in another tweet.

However, the Congress spurned the BJPs appeal for consensus on its choice for president and said the Opposition would take a call on contesting the election after a meeting on June 22.

The BJP had taken a unilateral decision, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said soon after the announcement of Kovind as the NDAs candidate.

Congress does not want to comment on this issue as we want to take a unanimous decision with all other opposition parties on the presidential elections. The final call will be taken in a meeting of all opposition parties on June 22, Azad told reporters.

Terming the BJP's efforts to reach out to the Opposition through its senior leaders as a formality and a PR exercise, Azad said the ruling party should have built consensus before announcing the candidate.

But they informed us after announcing this decision so there is no scope for consensus now... we were not expecting this from the ruling party. But it is their will, they are free to take a one-sided unilateral decision, Azad added.

No names were discussed when senior BJP leaders M Venkaiah Naidu and Rajnath Singh met Congress president Sonia Gandhi last week, the Congress leader said.

Asked to comment on the BJP fielding a Dalit candidate for the top constitutional post, Azad said, ...I don't want to comment on this...I don't want to comment on the merits and demerits of the candidate.

He added that minorities, backwards and Dalits were not priorities for the BJP-led government. Atrocities on Dalits in Saharanpur were a clear example of this.

Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan extended full support to Kovind, saying his choice is a political masterstroke by Modi.

He also asked opposition parties to support the Dalit candidate, claiming that if they put up a candidate against Kovind then they would be seen as anti-Dalit.

This is an historic decision. The Opposition should support the NDA candidate, rising above politics. If they don't support, it would mean they are anti-Dalits, Paswan told reporters in New Delhi.

If opposition parties field a Dalit against Kovind, then it will be nothing but vote-katva (aimed at denting support to Kovind) politics, noted the LJP leader, a BJP ally.

Every political party has its agenda. It is a slap on those parties who claim they work for Dalits but in reality have not done anything for the community, Paswan added.

The Telangana Rashtra Samiti also announced support for the BJPs nominee and also claimed it had suggested earlier fielding a Dalit candidate.

Soon after Kovind's candidature was announced, Modi telephoned Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and requested his support, the CM's office said in a release.

The PM told the CM as per your (the chief ministers) suggestion, we have decided upon a Dalit candidate for the presidential post, and requested his support for the candidate, the release said.

Immediately after receiving Modis call, the chief minister consulted his party colleagues.

Later, he conveyed his party's support for the presidential candidate to the PM, it said.

TRS floor leader in Lok Sabha A P Jithender Reddy said, After Amit Shah declared the candidate, Prime Minister Modi called up Mr KCR -- the first person to be telephoned by Modi after the decision -- and asked him for the support and KCR has very openly said that as he is a Dalit leader and is a very good person, we whole-heartedly support him.

While expressing his happiness on Kovind being nominated as NDAs presidential nominee, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said that a thorough discussion will be held on the matter within the Janata Dal-United.

Speaking to the media in Patna after meeting Kovind, the chief minister said, "It was my duty to meet him and I expressed my respect to him."

However, he assured that a meeting will be held on the matter as well.

I had a word with Laluji and Sonia Gandhi and there will be discussion on this. I have told them about my views, he said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asked opposition parties to rise above party politics and support Kovind.

Describing Kovind's candidature as supreme honour of the Dalit samaj, Adityanath at a hurriedly convened press conference said someone from among them has been selected for the top most constitutional post of the country.

It is a new social awakening that a Dalit has been selected for the top most constitutional post of the country for which I want to thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah on behalf of the people of the state, the chief minister stressed.

It is my appeal to all political parties to rise above party politics and support the son of Uttar Pradesh to become the President, he said, adding that this was his personal appeal as well as that on behalf of his government.

It is a matter of pride for the 22 crore people of the state, he said.

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said that her party cannot take a negative stand against a Dalit nominee.

She, however, stopped short of expressing immediate support for Kovind saying the BSP will be positive provided the opposition does not field any Dalit for the top post.

The BSPs stand cannot be negative towards a Dalit nominee for the post of president. Our stand will be positive provided the opposition does not field any Dalit for the top post, she said.

The BSP chief, however, said it would have been better if all opposition parties were taken into confidence by the BJP-led NDA at the Centre before announcing the name of its candidate.

Virtually expressing her partys reservation about the candidature of Kovind, Trinamool Congress supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that the Bihar governor was nominated only because he had been a leader of the BJPs Dalit Morcha in the past.

There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he (Kovind) was a leader of the BJP's Dalit Morcha, they have nominated him, she said in a statement.

The office of President is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee or even Sushma Swaraj or (L K) Advaniji may have been made the candidate.

In order to support someone, we must know the person. The candidate should be someone who would be beneficial for the country. The opposition will meet on June 22, only after that can we announce our decision, the West Bengal chief minister added.

She, however, said, I am not for a moment saying that Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit for the post of President. I have spoken to two or three opposition leaders, they too are surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country, she said.

The chief national spokesperson of the TMC, Derek OBrien, claimed that the party was not informed of Kovinds nomination by the NDA for the post of president.

The name was announced at a BJP press conference. Thats how we got to know. Not even informed (sic), he wrote on Twitter.

Keeping up the suspense, Shiv Sena said party chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of Sena leaders to decide on supporting the ruling alliances choice for president.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhavji after the NDAs presidential candidate was decided by the BJPs parliamentary board meeting. Shah sought the Sena's support for Ram Nath Kovind, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut told reporters in Mumbai.

Uddhavji told him that he will convene a meeting of the party leaders to arrive at a decision and convey our answer to him in one or two days, he said.

We had suggested two names for the post. One was of (RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat. If they (BJP) had a problem with that, we wanted (eminent agriculturist) M S Swaminathan. But since they have chosen some other name, the party will convey to the BJP our decision soon, Raut said.

Meanwhile, parties that announced support to Kovind include Jagan Mohan Reddys Yuvajana Shramika Rythu Congress and Puducherrys opposition All India N R Congress.

YSRC president Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy announced that his party would support Kovinds candidature for the top post as he was a Dalit leader.

Jagan gave this assurance to Shah, when the latter called him over the phone this afternoon seeking the YSRC's support for the ruling coalition's nominee.

Leader of the opposition in Puducherry assembly and AINRC founder N Rangasamy said in a release that AINRC extends its full support to Kovind for his win in the presidential election.

Rangasamy said that Kovind, born in a modest agriculturist family, had dedicated himself in public life and had been serving the nation.

With ANI inputs

IMAGE: Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, NDA's presidential candidate, greets the media as he leaves for Delhi, at Raj Bhavan in Patna on Monday. Photograph: PTI Photo
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.
Egypt: Morsy's Isolation Violates Rights

Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 19 June 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Egypt: Morsy's Isolation Violates Rights, 19 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947849c4.html [accessed 11 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.

Egyptian authorities have unlawfully prevented former President Mohamed Morsy from contacting or receiving visits from his family and lawyers in the years since the military forcibly removed him from power in July 2013, Human Rights Watch said today. On June 4, 2017, Egyptian authorities allowed Morsy to receive visits from his family and lawyer for only the second time in nearly four years.

These conditions undermine Morsy's right to mount a legal challenge to his detention and a defense against the many prosecutions filed against him and may have contributed to a decline in his health. During the first week of June, Morsy fainted twice and experienced a diabetic coma, his family told Human Rights Watch.

"Egyptian authorities appear to have seriously violated former President Morsy's due process rights and may be interfering in his proper medical treatment," said Joe Stork, deputy Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch. "Morsy's treatment is a window into the appalling conditions suffered by thousands of political detainees in Egypt."

During a court hearing on June 12, Morsy told the presiding judge that he would like to meet with his defense team to brief them on what he has been "exposed to" in prison and how it has affected his life, according to an account of the hearing published in the newspaper al-Shorouk. Morsy characterized his treatment as "crimes" that have had a "direct effect" on his life, including fainting on June 5 and 6, the newspaper reported. The court also read an official medical report from prison doctors, which stated that Morsy's health is good but that he has diabetes.

A family member told Human Rights Watch that the authorities had allowed Morsy's wife and daughter to see him for 30 minutes on June 4, but barred his four sons and other relatives from visiting. Morsy's only previous visit with his family was in November 2013. On June 4, authorities also allowed Abd al-Moniem Abd al-Maqsoud, a member of Morsy's legal defense team, to meet with Morsy for 10 minutes, the first time Morsy had received visit from a lawyer since January 2015.

Both meetings were in al-Molhaq Prison, part of the Tora Prisons Area in Cairo. There was no glass barrier separating Morsy from his family, as is usually the case in such visits, but a member of a security agency, whom the family member declined to name, was present.

The relative said that Morsy told his lawyer that he wanted to meet with his entire defense team to discuss "serious issues concerning his life" and that he would only raise these issues in public before a judge, the family member said.

On June 8, Morsy's defense team filed a complaint to the prosecutor general saying that Morsy's life could be in danger and asking to transfer him to a private health facility for examination. They also asked to meet with him again.

The relative said that, in the June 4 visit, Morsy appeared to be in "good but not excellent" health but that the former president, now 68, had lost considerable weight. Three days later, during a scheduled hearing in the retrial of a case in which Morsy is accused of participating in mass prison breaks during the 2011 uprising, the court refused to allow Morsy to speak. His relative said the family received information about his fainting and diabetic coma from other prisoners who were held near Morsy in the courtroom that day. Morsy told them he feared for his life and had started abstaining from eating anything but canned food, the family member said.

In August 2015, on one of the few occasions Morsy was allowed to speak before a court, he raised similar health concerns and asked to be examined by a private health facility, given his age, detention, and diabetes, but the government has never allowed it. During that same hearing, Morsy said he had on multiple occasions refused prison food that if eaten "would have led to a crime."

His relative told Human Rights Watch that a prison nurse or doctor usually checks Morsy's blood pressure and sugar level every few days but provides no other health care. The relative added that the authorities have never allowed the family to deliver any food or medicine - as most relatives of prisoners can do to supplement the often dangerously meager provisions in Egyptian prisons - and that Morsy had been buying his own insulin using money deposited by his family. The authorities have also denied Morsy any access to newspapers, television, and phone calls, the relative said.

After the military, under then-Defense Minister Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, arrested Morsy and deposed his government on July 3, 2013, it held him incommunicado without charge or judicial process for 23 days. Officially, his imprisonment began on July 26, 2013, when the authorities announced an investigation against him, but they did not transfer Morsy to a legal detention site - Borg al-Arab Prison in Alexandria - until November 4, 2013, for his first court appearance.

On July 22, 2013, after the authorities had begun using deadly force to disperse mass sit-ins opposing Morsy's removal, the European Union called on the interim government led by then-President Adly Mansour to release Morsy to help de-escalate the situation. The government did not release him. On July 30, Catherine Ashton, then the EU foreign policy chief, was able to meet with Morsy in detention. An African Union delegation met with Morsy for one hour the following day. The authorities allowed Morsy one phone call, in October 2013, and allowed his family to visit once after moving him to Borg al-Arab Prison.

In December 2016, authorities arrested Morsy's son Osama, who faces charges alongside hundreds of other defendants in the main trial stemming from the government's deadly August 14, 2013, dispersal of a mass sit-in in Cairo's Rab'a al-Adawiya Square opposing Morsy's removal. Osama and the other defendants, many of whom were protesting at Rab'a square, are accused of blocking roads, belonging to a banned group and attempted murder. The authorities moved Osama to "Scorpion" Maximum Security Prison, also in the Tora complex, and have not allowed the family or lawyers to visit him.

Since his ouster, Morsy has faced five separate trials on charges that include conspiring with Hamas and Hezbollah, committing espionage by leaking state secrets to Qatar, insulting the judiciary, and orchestrating the deadly dispersal of opposition protesters outside his presidential palace in 2012.

Previous Human Rights Watch reviews of the presidential palace clashes, prison breaks, and conspiracy trials found that all were compromised by serious due process violations and appeared politically motivated. The prosecution case file summary in the prison breaks and conspiracy cases, which were tried together, showed no evidence that prosecutors sought to establish individual criminal liability. In the presidential palace clashes case, prosecutors rested their theory of Morsy's responsibility for the deaths of protesters solely on the basis of his relationship with the Muslim Brotherhood.

In June 2015, a court sentenced Morsy to death in the prison breaks case and to life in prison in the conspiracy case. In June 2016, a separate court sentenced Morsy to life in prison in the espionage case. All of these verdicts have been overturned on appeal, and the cases are being retried. His 20-year sentence in the presidential palace clashes case was upheld on appeal, and he remains on trial in the case involving alleged insults to the judiciary.

Prisoners have the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health guaranteed in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which Egypt ratified in 1982. The United Nations Human Rights Committee has affirmed that the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, also ratified by Egypt in 1982, requires governments to provide "adequate medical care during detention."

The Committee Against Torture, the monitoring body of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment - ratified by Egypt in 1986 - has found that failure to provide adequate medical care can violate the treaty's prohibition of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

In 2016, Human Rights Watch found that the authorities' treatment of prisoners held in Scorpion Prison, where many prominent opposition and Muslim Brotherhood political figures have been held since 2013, violated a host of protections afforded to detainees.

"Egypt should stop this cruel retaliation against Morsy and his family," Stork said. "As with all detainees, Morsy's rights should be fully respected and guaranteed."

Copyright notice:  Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Bahrain: Only Independent Newspaper Shut Down

Publisher Human Rights Watch Publication Date 18 June 2017 Cite as Human Rights Watch, Bahrain: Only Independent Newspaper Shut Down, 18 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/594785c54.html [accessed 11 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.

Bahraini authorities on June 4, 2017, ordered the immediate indefinite suspension of Al Wasat, the country's only independent newspaper, Human Rights Watch said today. The Bahrain authorities should immediately revoke the order. Al Wasat is one of the very few independent news sites in the entire Gulf region.

Yousif Mohammed Ismail, the media director at the Ministry of Information Affairs, delivered the order to suspend publication verbally in a phone call to the newspaper. A subsequent statement on the government news agency site said Al Wasat had violated the law and would not be published "until further notice." The statement added that Al Wasat had "created discord and damaged Bahrain's relations with other countries." It cited a June 4 opinion article about a rural uprising in al-Hoceima, in northern Morocco, which said that the protesters had legitimate demands.

"A newspaper in Bahrain should be able to comment on and criticize the authorities in Morocco or anywhere in the world," said Joe Stork, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch. "Shutting down Al Wasat is a prime example of Bahraini authorities' complete intolerance of any kind of independent expression."

Bahrain's suspension of Al Wasat came days after the government dissolved the leading secular opposition society, the National Democratic Action Society (Wa'ad), on May 31, 2017.

Bahraini authorities have suspended Al Wasat on three previous occasions since the paper was founded in 2002, but never for more than three days. In April 2011, authorities suspended Al Wasat for one day, claiming the paper had published "false news." Bahrain's Public Prosecutor subsequently charged the Al Wasat editor, Mansoor al-Jamri, and three other editors "with publishing fabricated news and made up stories ... that may harm public safety and national interests." All four received a fine, and al-Jamri briefly stepped down as editor, returning in August 2011.

In August 2015, authorities suspended the paper for two days without giving any reason, and in January 2017, authorities suspended the online edition of the newspaper from publishing for three days, accusing it of "inciting division, jeopardizing national unity, and disrupting public peace," after it published an article about violent unrest in the Bahraini town of A'ali.

Al Wasat's suspension is a violation of the right to freedom of expression and an attack on media freedom, Human Rights Watch said. It also appears to violate article 28 of Bahrain's 2002 press law - Decree No. 47 for 2002 - which states that a court order is required to close or suspend a newspaper.

The UN Human Rights Committee, in giving guidance on freedom of expression, has stressed the vital importance of protecting peaceful criticism of state authorities. It has also stressed that it is not permissible to ban or shut down a newspaper because of one article.

Between 160 and 180 staff will lose their jobs if Al Wasat is forced to close.

On June 8, 2017, Bahraini's Ministry of Interior announced that "as a sovereign right of Bahrain, any show of sympathy or favoritism for the Qatar government or objection to Bahrain's action on the social media in the form of tweets, posts or any spoken or written word will be considered a crime punishable under the Penal Code and will lead to a jail term of up to five years and fine."

Qatar is currently in dispute with Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. On June 16, Bahraini media reported that authorities had arrested a lawyer who had announced his intention to legally challenge the economic blockade that Bahrain, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have imposed on Qatar. Local sources identified the lawyer as Isa Faraj Al Bou Rashid.

Copyright notice:  Copyright, Human Rights Watch
Civilians living in "penury and panic" as Mosul battle rages - UNHCR

Publisher UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Civilians living in "penury and panic" as Mosul battle rages - UNHCR, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59478b224.html [accessed 11 November 2022]

An estimated 100,000 civilians are effectively being held as human shields by ISIS fighters in West Mosul, where they are living in conditions of "penury and panic" without food, water or fuel, UNHCR's representative in Iraq said on Friday. The battle to capture Mosul, Iraq's second city, began nine months ago, and has since displaced 862,000 men, women and children from their homes. As Iraqi and coalition forces battle for the last neighbourhoods under militant control in West Mosul, they are meeting fierce resistance from ISIS fighters, Bruno Geddo told a news briefing in Geneva. "The civilian population is being moved by fighters with them to be used as human shields, and  ISIS snipers continue to aim at people trying to flee," Geddo told reporters at the Palais des Nations. "They are risking their lives if they stay and if they flee." Civilians trapped in the city have hardly any food, water, electricity or fuel left, and are living in a growing state of "penury and panic  because they are surrounded by fighting on every side", he added.

Geddo said those who attempted to leave the city were being shot by snipers deliberately aiming at people trying to flee. With the bloody battle entering its endgame in the labyrinthine streets of the old city, there was a greater risk of civilian casualties "because of the nature of the urban environment and the fierce resistance put up by ISIS", he said. "Fighting will have to be done on foot, hand by hand, house to house, so  the risk for civilians and their property will be even higher." Giving a sense of the dangers faced by fleeing residents, Geddo said he had spoken to families who reported coming under sniper fire as they tried to slip out of the city at night, through the streets or by boat on the Tigris River. Another displaced resident complained of sickness after being reduced to drinking contaminated water for 10 days. Geddo said about 667,000 people had been displaced from Mosul, of whom 635,000 were from West Mosul. To meet the immediate needs of the displaced, the UN Refugee Agency has built 13 camps so far in the area in northern Iraq, and has assisted more than half a million people. Of these, 371,000 are being aided in camps, where they receive tents, mattresses, blankets, buckets and kitchen utensils. About 144,000 were assisted out of camps, living either with friends or families in east Mosul, or in abandoned buildings. About 195,000 had returned mostly to East Mosul. Many are living in precarious conditions, particularly those in unfinished or abandoned buildings, Geddo said. UNHCR gives them wood and other materials to seal off unfinished buildings. The UN Refugee Agency is working to reunite families separated in flight and is helping displaced people to replace identity documents they have lost. A mobile unit working with Iraqi authorities has so far replaced 2,000 missing documents. In addition, Geddo said UNHCR is providing psychological aid to help the displaced. "People coming out of west Mosul are deeply traumatized," he said "They have seen unspeakable things." To meet the critical needs of vulnerable children, women and men displaced by fighting in Mosul, and of those returning to their war-damaged homes, UNHCR said this month it urgently needed US$126 million in funding up to the end of the year.
DRC: Human rights grievances fuelling a "desperate and dangerous" situation

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, DRC: Human rights grievances fuelling a "desperate and dangerous" situation, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59478ce24.html [accessed 11 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.

Responding to an urgent appeal by former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and nine former African heads of state warning that the future of the DRC is in grave danger, Sarah Jackson, Deputy Regional Director for East Africa, the Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes said:

"The launch of this appeal is extremely timely and we echo the concerns raised by Kofi Annan. The Democratic Republic of Congo is a powder-keg of human rights grievances that frequently spill over into violence. Instead of taking concrete steps to ease the tensions, the government has chosen to focus its efforts on quashing dissenting voices, killing and imprisoning dozens of protesters in the process.

"Violent conflict in the Kasai region has forced 1.3 million people to flee their homes and requires urgent and immediate action from the UN Human Rights Council. Hundreds of extrajudicial executions and other human rights violations committed by the armed forces have gone uninvestigated fuelling a conflict now affecting eight provinces in which an estimated 500 to 1,000 people have been killed.

"The international community, and African leaders in particular, cannot afford to continue ignoring this desperate and dangerous situation."

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Syria: Expert analysis shows US-led coalition use of white phosphorus may amount to war crime

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Syria: Expert analysis shows US-led coalition use of white phosphorus may amount to war crime, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59478d294.html [accessed 11 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 US-led coalition's use of white phosphorus munitions on the outskirts of al-Raqqa, Syria is unlawful and may amount to a war crime, Amnesty International can confirm after verifying five videos of the incident.

The videos, published online on 8 and 9 June, showed the coalition's artillery strike using the munitions over the civilian neighbourhoods of Jezra and el-Sebahiya. International humanitarian law prohibits the use of white phosphorus near civilians.

"The use of white phosphorus munitions by the US-led coalition gravely endangers the lives of thousands of civilians trapped in and around al-Raqqa city, and may amount to a war crime under these circumstances. It can cause horrific injuries by burning through flesh and bone and can pose a threat even weeks after being deployed by reigniting and burning at extremely high temperatures," said Samah Hadid, Middle East Director of Campaigns at Amnesty International.

"The US-led forces must immediately investigate artillery strikes on Jezra and el-Sebahiya and take all possible measures to protect civilians. The use of white phosphorus in densely populated areas poses an unacceptably high risk to civilians and would almost invariably amount to indiscriminate attacks."

Amnesty International verified and cross-checked five videos that surfaced on 8 and 9 June 2017. The videos clearly show different angles of a white phosphorus air-burst and the same areas being targeted by burning elements of white phosphorus landing upon low-level buildings. Repeated use of white phosphorous in circumstances where burning elements are likely to come into contact with civilians violates international humanitarian law.

According to local monitoring group "Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently," and other local sources, at least 14 civilians were killed in one of the strikes. Activists from "Raqqa is being slaughtered silently" told Amnesty International that, in addition to the local civilian population, many internally displaced people from western Raqqa were also seeking refuge in the areas at the time of the attack.

US-made white phosphorus

According to Amnesty International's analysis, the white phosphorus munition artillery projectiles seen in the footage are most likely US-made 155mm M825A1's.

White phosphorus is most often used to create a dense smoke screen that can obscure the movement of troops from enemy forces, and to mark targets for further attack. While its use for such purposes is not prohibited, extreme caution is warranted whenever it is deployed. It should never be used in the vicinity of civilians.

"Force protection must not take priority over protection of civilians. US-led coalition and SDF forces must refrain from using powerful explosive weapons and imprecise weapons in populated areas and take all possible measures to protect the civilian population." said Samah Hadid.

Confirmation of white phosphorus use in Mosul, Iraq

The US-led coalition has confirmed its recent use of white phosphorous in the Iraqi city of Mosul but has yet to confirm its use in al-Raqqa. In Mosul, the US-led coalition claimed that it used white phosphorous to create a smoke screen to assist civilians in their escape from areas of the city under the control of the armed group calling itself Islamic State (IS).

Background

Fighting has been intensifying in al-Raqqa as Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) backed by the US-led coalition are pushing to gain control the city from IS. Hundreds of thousands of civilians remain trapped in and around the city.

Amnesty International is monitoring the conduct of all parties to the conflict in Raqqa, in accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law and applicable human rights law.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Saudi Arabia: Release blogger Raif Badawi, still behind bars after five years

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Saudi Arabia: Release blogger Raif Badawi, still behind bars after five years, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59478db54.html [accessed 11 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.

Marking the fifth anniversary of the arrest of Saudi Arabian blogger and prisoner of conscience Raif Badawi, Samah Hadid, Middle-East Director of Campaigns for Amnesty International said:

"Raif Badawi has already served half of his prison term, but he shouldn't be locked up in the first place. Saudi Arabian authorities must ensure his immediate and unconditional release, as well as the release of all prisoners of conscience detained solely for exercising their right to freedom of expression.

"Blogging is not a crime. The harsh punishment of Raif Badawi shows the Saudi Arabian authorities' blatant contempt for freedom of expression and the extent to which they are willing to go to crush all forms of dissent."

Background:

Raif Badawi was detained on 17 June 2012 and sentenced in 2014 to 10 years in prison, followed by a 10-year travel ban and a 1 million Saudi Arabian riyal fine for creating an online forum for public debate and accusations that he insulted Islam. He was also sentenced to a cruel and inhuman punishment of 1,000 lashes, the first 50 of which were meted out in a public square in Jeddah on 9 January 2015.

More than a million messages from Amnesty International activists have been sent in support of Raif Badawi since 2014. In 2015, the campaign also highlighted the plight of his lawyer, Waleed Abu al-Khair, who is currently serving a 15-year prison term solely for his human rights work.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
UN Middle East envoy condemns attack that leaves Israeli police officer dead, four others injured

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 17 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UN Middle East envoy condemns attack that leaves Israeli police officer dead, four others injured, 17 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/594798864.html [accessed 11 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 United Nations envoy on Middle East peace has condemned yesterday's shooting and stabbing attack by Palestinian assailants near Jerusalem's Old City that killed an Israeli Border Police Officer and wounded at least four others including civilians.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, and I wish a speedy recovery to the injured," said the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Nickolay Mladenov in a statement.

Emphasizing that such terrorist acts must be clearly condemned by all, Mr. Mladenov said: "I am appalled that once again some find it appropriate to justify such attacks as 'heroic.' They are unacceptable and seek to drag everyone into a new cycle of violence."
'No limit' to cruelty of traffickers, says UN agency, as video surfaces of abused migrants in Libya

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, 'No limit' to cruelty of traffickers, says UN agency, as video surfaces of abused migrants in Libya, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/594798c44.html [accessed 11 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.

Two United Nations agencies have voiced 'deep concern' for the safety of hundreds of migrants and refugees  including many children  held captive by smugglers or criminal gangs at an unknown location in Libya after a video showing their abuse was posted on Facebook.

The UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) has confirmed that the videos are authentic.

According to the agency, short video clips have also been sent to families of those held captive, threatening that they will be killed if ransoms (ranging between $8,000-$10,0000) are not paid.

Seeing a Facebook video of innocent migrants and refugees who have been abused and tortured is deeply concerning, said Mohammed Abdiker, IOM Director of Operations and Emergencies, in a news release.

The cruelty of the human traffickers preying on vulnerable refugees and migrants in Libya does not seem to have a limit, added Amin Awad, the Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), calling for their immediate release.

Those seen in the video are from Somalia and Ethiopia but other nationalities could also be present, noted IOM.

It added that migrants and refugees travelling to Libya from the Horn Africa, are particularly vulnerable in the Raybana area on the country's southern border with Sudan, where many are frequently abducted.

Social media and tech firms need to recognize the extreme harm  IOM official

The agency also drew attention to the increasing trend of abuse of digital and social media platforms by smugglers or criminal gangs and called on such firms to be more vigilant.

This is a global problem where a smuggler or a criminal gang can easily use digital platforms to advertise their services, entice vulnerable people on the move and then exploit them and their families, said IOM's Mr. Abdiker.

It is high time that social media and tech companies recognize the extreme harm that is occurring because of their failure to monitor and react to situations of grave human rights abuses [] that are being shared through their channels, he added.

Also today, the head of IOM operations in Libya, Othman Belbeisi, said that the agency is working closely with all partners in trying to locate the migrants.

[We are] supporting Libyan efforts in the fight against the smuggling networks and we are very concerned about the current situation, noted Mr. Belbeisi, adding that IOM would continue to use its staff in the region  in coordination with the authorities  to assist in tracing and potentially aiding in the rescue of these victims.

Some of the captives in the videos have been missing for up to six years, according to their families in Somalia, noted IOM.

The videos, made by a journalist based in Turkey (who recorded the call he received from the criminal gang, and posted it on Facebook on 9 June) show hundreds of emaciated and abused male migrants and refugees sitting on the floor in a crowded space.

They said that been beaten and tortured.

Large concrete block placed on a young, starving man as punishment

Some of them also reported that their teeth have been removed, their arms broken, they have not been fed, and that women and girls have been put in different cells, where these men fear they are being abused both sexually and physically.

I have being here one year. I am beaten every day. I swear I do not eat food. My body is bruised from beating, said one of the captives in the video. If you have seen the life here you wouldn't stay this world any more. I didn't eat the last four days but the biggest problem is beating here. They don't want to release me.

IOM noted that throughout the video there are exchanges between the journalist and the person moderating on site in Libya.

In one instance, he introduces the journalist to a young visibly starving man with a large concrete block weighing down on his back, as punishment for his family not paying his ransom.

I was asked for $8,000, said the young man, when asked by journalist why the criminal gang were punishing him. They broke my teeth. They broke my hand. I have being here 11 months [] This stone has been put on me for the last three days. It's really painful.

I was here one year, said another captive on the video (from Ethiopia), pleading with the journalist for help.

We want help. My brother, my brother, we are dead! We are beaten 24 hours a day, brother I am begging you! Brother I beg you, do whatever you can do. I can't sleep, my chest hurts so much because they beat me with big pieces of steel every hour. They put us out in the sun. They do not give us food for days. Brother, we want you can take us back to our country!
Freedom in the World 2017 - United Arab Emirates

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - United Arab Emirates, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a6626.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Not Free

Aggregate Score: 20/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 6/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 6/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 6/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Quick Facts

Population: 9,300,000

Capital: Abu Dhabi

GDP/capita: $40,439

Press Freedom Status: Not Free

Net Freedom Status: Not Free

OVERVIEW

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates led in practice by Abu Dhabi, the largest by area and richest in natural resources. Limited elections are held for a federal advisory body, but political parties are banned, and all executive, legislative, and judicial authority ultimately rests with the seven hereditary rulers. The civil liberties of both citizens and noncitizens, who make up an overwhelming majority of the population, are subject to significant restrictions.

Key Developments in 2016:

In July, the government issued a law that increased penalties for using a virtual private network (VPN) to commit a crime, potentially deterring those who employ such tools to circumvent online censorship.

In November, an Emirati dissident who had initially been arrested in Indonesia was sentenced to 10 years in prison as part of a broader crackdown on individuals accused of links to the Muslim Brotherhood.

Another Emirati citizen, academic and activist Nasser bin Ghaith, was on trial during the year for critical online comments about the authorities and his own claims of torture, as well as alleged collaboration with Islamist political groups. He had been detained incommunicado or in solitary confinement since his August 2015 arrest.

Executive Summary:

The government of the UAE continued to suppress dissent in 2016, restricting the use of social media and utilizing an expansive antiterrorism law that criminalizes criticism of the regime. The authorities remained especially focused on activists with real or suspected ties to Islamist political groups, which  like all political parties  are banned even if they do not espouse violence.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the most powerful of the seven emirates, has reportedly taken on most policymaking authority since his older brother, UAE president and Abu Dhabi emir Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahyan, suffered a stroke in 2014. Under Sheikh Mohammed's leadership, the country has pursued an active foreign policy, deploying financial, diplomatic, and even military resources to combat perceived Islamist or pro-Iranian threats across the region. It has provided support for the anti-Islamist Egyptian government, participated in a Saudi-led coalition against Shiite-affiliated antigovernment forces in Yemen, and backed an anti-Islamist factional leader in Libya.

Economic disparities persist among UAE citizens across the seven emirates, and between citizens and many noncitizen residents, who constitute nearly 90 percent of the total population. Noncitizens have borne the brunt of government austerity measures associated with lower oil and gas revenues in recent years.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 7 / 40

A. Electoral Process 1 / 12

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

All decisions about political leadership rest with the dynastic rulers of the seven emirates, who form the Federal Supreme Council, the country's highest executive and legislative body. These leaders select a president and vice president, and the president appoints a prime minister and cabinet. The emirate of Abu Dhabi, the major oil producer in the UAE, has controlled the federation's presidency since its inception in 1971. In 2006, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum succeeded his late brother as ruler of the emirate of Dubai and prime minister of the UAE.

The 40-seat Federal National Council (FNC) serves as an advisory body, reviewing proposed laws and questioning federal government ministers. Under reforms implemented in 2006, half of its members are elected by an electoral college chosen by the seven rulers, while the government directly appoints the other half. After previous rounds in 2006 and 2011, the third elections to the FNC took place in 2015, and while the size of the electoral college was expanded to more than 224,000 members  some 34 times larger than in 2006  voter turnout remained low, at 35 percent. Overseas voting was permitted for the first time.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 2 / 16

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

Political parties are banned in the UAE. The allocation of positions in the government is determined largely by tribal loyalties and economic power.

Since 2011, the authorities have aggressively cracked down on suspected members of the Association for Reform and Guidance, or Al-Islah  a group formed in 1974 to peacefully advocate for democratic reform  accusing them of being foreign agents of the Muslim Brotherhood intent on overthrowing the government. The government officially declared the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization in 2014. Dozens of activists, civil society leaders, academics, and students remained behind bars as part of the crackdown in 2016. In December 2015, one defendant, Abdulrahman bin Sobeih, who had been convicted in absentia, was forcibly returned from Indonesia to the UAE. He was put on trial in March 2016, found guilty of being a member of Al-Islah, and sentenced in November to a 10-year prison term.

Citizens are believed to constitute only about 11 percent of the population. Noncitizens  including many expatriate minority groups and some stateless residents  have few opportunities for participation and representation in politics.

C. Functioning of Government 2 / 12

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

Although unelected officials determine and implement all laws and policies with little independent oversight, the UAE is considered one of the least corrupt countries in the Middle East, and the government has taken steps in recent years to increase efficiency and streamline bureaucracy. In 2015, the leadership launched a 2 billion dirham ($550 million) innovation fund to help reform public services and advance the country's commercial interests; the fund is managed by the Ministry of Finance. These and other initiatives are part of the government's broader "UAE Vision 2021" plan, aimed at making improvements in key governmental, social, economic, and technological areas.

Transparency surrounding such projects  and in government in general  is low, and despite legal provisions, accessing public information remains difficult. Public officials are not required to disclose information about their income or assets.

Additional Discretionary Political Rights Question A 2 / 4

For traditional monarchies that have no parties or electoral process, does the system provide for genuine, meaningful consultation with the people, encourage public discussion of policy choices, and allow the right to petition the ruler?

1. Is there a non-elected legislature that advises the monarch on policy issues?

2. Are there formal mechanisms for individuals or civic groups to speak with or petition the monarch?

3. Does the monarch take petitions from the public under serious consideration?

Citizens have some limited opportunities to express their interests through traditional consultative sessions, including during an open majlis, or council. The participation of women in consultative processes is limited, however, and the severe difficulty of acquiring citizenship leaves the noncitizen majority without meaningful prospects for political engagement.

Civil Liberties 13 / 60

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 4 / 16

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

Although the constitution provides for some freedom of expression, the government restricts this right in practice. The 1980 Publications and Publishing Law, considered one of the most restrictive press laws in the Arab world, regulates all aspects of the media. It prohibits criticism of the government, its allies, and religion and also bans pornography. Journalists commonly practice self-censorship, and outlets frequently publish government statements without criticism or comment. Media operate with relatively more freedom in four "free media zones"  areas in which foreign outlets produce material for foreign audiences  but the zones remain subject to UAE media laws and have additional regulatory codes and authorities.

A number of other laws, such as a 2014 antiterrorism law and a 2015 measure against hate speech and discrimination, feature broadly worded offenses that can be used to restrict free expression. A 2012 cybercrimes law allows fines and imprisonment for anyone who publishes online content that insults the state, organizes antigovernment protests, or is deemed a threat to national security. Amendments to the law issued in July 2016 increased the penalties for using a VPN to commit a crime, permitting fines of up to 2 million dirhams ($540,000) in addition to possible jail time. Separately, academic and human rights activist Nasser bin Ghaith was put on trial in 2016 after being arrested in August 2015 for online postings that criticized UAE and Egyptian authorities and for alleged collaboration with banned Islamist groups such as Al-Islah. He was held incommunicado until a court appearance in April, and claimed to have been tortured in custody. The trial made little progress during the year, and bin Ghaith remained in solitary confinement at year's end.

The constitution provides for freedom of religion. Islam is the official religion, and the majority of citizens are Sunni Muslims. The minority Shiite Muslim sect and non-Muslims are free to worship without interference. The government controls content in nearly all Sunni mosques.

The Ministry of Education censors textbooks and curriculums in both public and private schools. Several foreign universities have opened satellite campuses in the UAE, although faculties are careful to avoid criticizing the government for fear of losing funding. In 2015, UAE officials barred entry to a professor from New York University (NYU) who was an outspoken critic of the country's treatment of migrant workers and had planned to travel to Abu Dhabi  where NYU maintains a campus  to conduct research on that topic.

Social media platforms are heavily monitored by the government. The openness of private discussion is limited by sensitivities surrounding a range of topics, including government policy and officials, the ruling family, and Islam.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 2 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

The government places tight constraints on freedoms of assembly and association. Public meetings require government permits. Nongovernmental organizations must register with the Ministry of Social Affairs and can receive subsidies from the government, though they are subject to many burdensome restrictions.

Workers  most of whom are foreign  do not have the right to organize, bargain collectively, or strike. Workers occasionally protest against unpaid wages and poor working and living conditions, but such demonstrations are typically dispersed by security personnel.

F. Rule of Law 3 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

The judiciary is not independent, with court rulings subject to review by the political leadership. The legal system is divided into Sharia (Islamic law) courts, which address family and criminal matters, and secular courts, which cover civil law. Sharia courts sometimes impose flogging sentences for drug use, prostitution, and adultery.

While the federal Interior Ministry oversees police forces, each emirate's force enjoys considerable autonomy. Arbitrary arrests and detention have been reported, particularly of foreign residents. Detainees are often denied adequate access to legal counsel during interrogations, and lengthy detention without charge is not uncommon. Authorities have been criticized by international human rights organizations for failure to investigate allegations of torture and mistreatment in custody. Prisons in the larger emirates are overcrowded.

The 2014 antiterrorism law allows the cabinet to determine whether groups are terrorist organizations and assigns fines of up to $27 million, custodial sentences of up to life in prison, and death sentences for terrorist offenses. The law is broad and ambiguous, describing violations such as "antagonizing the state" and "undermining social peace."

In the first half of 2016, the State Security Chamber at the Abu Dhabi Supreme Court acquitted several Libyan nationals, including U.S. and Canadian dual citizens, who had been held in secret detention since 2014 in some cases, charged with terrorism offenses and supporting militants in Libya. In February 2016, the UN special rapporteur on torture said there was credible evidence that they had been tortured in custody.

Discrimination against noncitizens and foreign workers is common. While the Interior Ministry has established methods for stateless persons, known as bidoon, to apply for citizenship, the government uses unclear criteria in approving or rejecting such requests. Same-sex relations are illegal, and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people are subject to widespread social stigma and discrimination.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 4 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

Emiratis face no apparent restrictions on freedom of movement within the UAE or on their type or place of employment, although migrant workers' visas and legal status are tied to an employer's sponsorship, meaning they can be punished or deported for leaving employment without meeting certain criteria.

The UAE has made reforms in recent years to ease procedures for establishing and operating businesses. However, the government and ruling families exercise outsized influence over the economy and are involved in many of the country's major economic and commercial initiatives.

The constitution does not address gender equality. Muslim women are forbidden to marry non-Muslims and receive smaller inheritances than men. No laws protect against spousal rape, and men are permitted to physically discipline their wives. Women are politically underrepresented, though they have in recent years received appointments to various levels of government, including the cabinet. Although only one woman was elected to the FNC in 2015, another eight were appointed by the government, and one of them was named as speaker and president of the body, marking the first time that the position has been held by a woman.

Despite a 2006 antitrafficking law and the opening of new shelters for female victims, the government has failed to adequately address human trafficking. Migrants in particular are at high risk of being trafficked for the purposes of forced labor and sexual exploitation. Foreign workers are often subjected to harsh working conditions, physical abuse, and withholding of passports with little to no access to legal recourse.

A series of ministerial decrees issued in 2015 aimed to give migrant workers more flexibility to terminate employment under certain conditions  including through indemnification or in the case of extended nonpayment of wages  and to combat abusive practices like contract substitution, in which a worker is recruited with one contract abroad but forced to sign a less favorable agreement upon arrival in the UAE. Foreign household workers are not covered by those decrees or by labor laws in general, leaving them especially vulnerable. In December 2016, the cabinet transferred oversight responsibility for such workers from immigration officials to the labor ministry, raising the possibility of improved protections.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Freedom in the World 2017 - Tanzania

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - Tanzania, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a68f.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Partly Free

Aggregate Score: 58/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 3.5/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 3/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 4/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Quick Facts

Population: 54,200,000

Capital: Dodoma

GDP/capita: $879

Press Freedom Status: Partly Free

OVERVIEW

Although Tanzania has held five consecutive multiparty elections since its transition from a one-party state in the early 1990s, the presence of formal opposition remains limited within the government, and the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has retained power for over half a century. Civil liberties concerns include government limitations on freedom of expression as well as recent legislation and official rhetoric that have had a chilling effect on civil society.

Key Developments in 2016:

A number of moves by the authorities threatened the exercise of civil liberties, including an indefinite ban on public assemblies, implemented in June, and the halting of public broadcasts of parliamentary sessions, implemented in April.

Zanzibar held elections in March, following an annulment of its 2015 polls; the opposition boycotted the vote, allowing the CCM to win the presidency and every legislative seat.

Authorities used the controversial 2015 Cybercrimes Act to prosecute critics of the ruling party.

The president signed another piece of restrictive legislation, the Media Services Bill, in November, raising concerns from watchdogs about expanded government powers to curb freedom of expression.

Executive Summary:

The aftermath of Tanzania's 2015 national elections, which were the country's most competitive to date but also featured controversy, drove political developments in early 2016. The elections in the semi-autonomous archipelago of Zanzibar had been annulled before the official announcement of the results, and a second vote was held in March 2016. The opposition formally boycotted the elections, as the Civic United Front (CUF) claimed that the 2015 elections had been voided because it appeared to be winning. The lead-up to the vote was tense, with episodes of violence against opposition members and journalists as well as a heightened military presence. The CCM easily won every seat in the legislature and took the presidency, resulting in the dissolution of a power-sharing government that had been formed in 2010 and allocated executive positions to both major parties. Although Tanzania's opposition had successfully organized a coalition for the 2015 elections, it showed weakness and fragmentation in 2016. Following signs of infighting, the chairman of the CUF was expelled in September.

There was a significant crackdown on civil liberties during the year. The Cybercrimes Act, rushed through the legislature in 2015, was used against critics of the regime on a number of occasions. The law gives the government significant leeway to arrest anyone for publishing information deemed false, deceptive, misleading, or inaccurate and to levy heavy penalties against individuals involved in a host of criminalized cyberactivities. Under this law, one man was convicted in June of calling President Magufuli an "imbecile" on Facebook. The Media Services Bill, signed into law in November, raised alarm in the media community, with critics noting that it could constrain the types of stories published by journalists. In April, the Information Ministry announced that broadcasts of parliamentary sessions would cease, a move that significantly undermined the public's ability to access official information. Separately, in June, the government imposed a ban on all public demonstrations and rallies, curtailing individuals' right to exercise freedom of assembly.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 25 / 40 (-2)

A. Electoral Process 7 / 12 (-1)

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

The president of Tanzania is elected by direct popular vote for up to two five-year terms. Legislative authority lies with a unicameral, 393-seat National Assembly (the Bunge) whose members serve five-year terms. Of these, 264 are directly elected in single-member constituencies, 113 are reserved for women elected by political parties, 10 are filled by presidential appointment, 5 are for members of the Zanzibar legislature, and 1 is held by the attorney general. Zanzibar elects its own president and 85-seat House of Representatives, whose members serve five-year terms and are seated through a mix of direct elections and appointments. Zanzibar maintains largely independent jurisdiction over its internal affairs.

The 2015 national elections saw a voter turnout of 65 percent, compared with 43 percent in 2010. In the presidential race, the CCM's John Magufuli won with 58 percent of the vote, while Edward Lowassa of Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) took 40 percent. In the National Assembly, the CCM won 189 of the directly elected seats. Opposition parties, many of which had coordinated candidates through a unified coalition, gained their largest representation yet. CHADEMA won 70 of the directly elected seats, the CUF took 42, and the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT) and the National Convention for Construction and Reform (NCCR)  Mageuzi each won one.

Domestic and international observers generally deemed the 2015 elections to be credible, but noted a number of areas of concern. An observer mission from the European Union (EU) described "highly competitive, generally well organized elections, but with insufficient efforts at transparency from the election administrations." The EU mission noted that the CCM had drawn on state resources, such as public stadiums, to support its campaign.

In addition, the simultaneous elections in Zanzibar featured irregularities. Prior to the announcement of official results, Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) Chair Jecha Salim Jecha declared the elections for the president and legislature null and void, claiming the process had not been conducted in accordance with the law. In a joint statement, observer missions from the Commonwealth, the Southern African Development Community, the African Union, and the EU expressed "great concern" at the ZEC's move and noted that they had assessed the voting to be conducted according to the law. The CUF claimed that authorities annulled the vote because the CCM appeared to be losing. The annulment of Zanzibar's presidential election and simultaneous acceptance of the Zanzibari vote for the mainland presidential election undermined the fairness of the electoral framework. The framework is facilitated by the National Election Commission (NEC) and the ZEC, both of which are appointed by the Tanzanian president and whose independence has been questioned. The president maintains the ability to appoint regional and district commissioners, who are influential during elections.

A second Zanzibari election, held in March 2016, was boycotted by the opposition, and the CCM won the presidency and the entire legislature. Ahead of the elections, the military increased its presence on Zanzibar, and there were reports of political party offices being torched and journalists and opposition members harassed and even, in some cases, abducted. Without an opposition, CCM legislators voted in September to change Zanzibar's constitution, eliminating a 2010 amendment establishing the Government of National Unity, a CCM-CUF power-sharing arrangement that had been considered a milestone for stability.

Tanzania's constitution was passed in 1977, when the country was under single-party rule. In 2014, the presidentially appointed Constitutional Review Commission submitted its second draft of a new constitution to the Constituent Assembly (CA), a body of 640 Tanzanian and Zanzibari legislators and presidential appointees, for approval. The draft proposed a three-tiered federal state, fewer cabinet members, independent candidature, limits on executive appointment, and an explicit bill of rights. Shortly afterward, Tanzania's three primary opposition parties quit the CA, claiming that their input was being ignored. Nevertheless, the CA passed a controversial draft that year. Opposition parties sought a judicial block to the document, suggesting it was passed without a quorum, and initiated a nationwide campaign to garner public support for their position. Though the government scheduled a nationwide referendum on the proposed constitution in 2015, the NEC announced an indefinite delay, citing an inability to implement a new biometric voter registration system in time for voting. No referendum on the matter was held in 2016.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 11 / 16 (-1)

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

Tanzanians have the right to organize into political parties, and there is growing support for the opposition. The constitution permits political parties to form "shadow governments" while in opposition. Four opposition parties  the CUF, CHADEMA, NCCR-Mageuzi, and the National League for Democracy (NLD)  supported a single presidential candidate and coordinated parliamentary candidates for the 2015 elections. Past attempts to form opposition alliances had failed. This coalition, known as the Coalition for a People's Constitution, Ukawa, formed during the CA process and posed the most significant threat to CCM's rule in the country's history.

In June 2016, authorities announced an indefinite ban on all demonstrations and rallies, curtailing the ability of political parties to hold assemblies in public. The government clarified the following month that the opposition could hold small constituency meetings, but the effects of the ban were nevertheless overwhelmingly negative. CHADEMA canceled plans for a nationwide rally in September following warnings from the police.

Opposition parties report regular harassment and intimidation by the ruling party and various state institutions, including the police. In December, police interrogated Tundu Lissu, the chief legal advisor of CHADEMA, for six hours about his claim regarding the government's alleged use of torture chambers, among other things. In November, CHADEMA parliamentarian Godbless Lema was arrested and charged with inciting mutiny and insulting the president. He remained in detention at the end of 2016.

Both CHADEMA and the CUF have struggled with internal crises over the last two years. In 2015, CHADEMA leader Wilbroad Slaa resigned after Ukawa selected Edward Lowassa as its presidential candidate, citing Lowassa's involvement in a corruption scandal. A power struggle within the CUF led to the expulsion of its former leader, Ibrahim Lipumba, in September 2016.

People's choices are influenced by threats from military forces and the use of material incentives by the ruling party.

Cultural, ethnic, religious, and other minority groups have full political rights, but parties formed on explicitly ethnic or religious bases are prohibited.

C. Functioning of Government 7 / 12

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

Magufuli, a technocrat, has taken a number of cost-cutting measures, including replacing an annual independence day celebration with a national street cleaning day, shrinking the cabinet from 30 to 19 members, and reducing the salaries of senior officials, the latter of which he announced in March 2016.

Despite the presence of the Prevention and Combating Corruption Bureau (PCCB), corruption is pervasive in all aspects of political and commercial life in Tanzania. The PCCB has been accused of focusing on low-level corruption and doing little to address graft committed by senior government officials. In 2015, Magufuli dismissed the director general of the PCCB for negligence. In January 2016, Dickson Maimu, head of the National Identification Authority (NIDA), was suspended to allow authorities to investigate his possible involvement in a corrupt identification card project. Maimu and five other NIDA officials were charged with abuse of power, among other offenses, in August.

The government remains sporadically responsive to citizen input between elections, and people generally have access to public information. However, in April 2016, live broadcasts of parliamentary sessions were suspended. Justified as a cost-cutting measure by the government, the move was widely criticized by local and domestic rights groups. The parliament inconsistently publishes legislation, committee reports, budgets, and other documents.

Civil Liberties 33 / 40

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 9 / 16

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

Although the constitution provides for freedom of speech, it does not specifically guarantee freedom of the press. Current laws give authorities broad discretion to restrict media on the basis of national security or public interest, and difficult registration processes hinder print and electronic media. The government increased its crackdown on the media in 2016.

The 2015 Cybercrimes Act gives the government significant leeway to arrest anyone perceived of publishing information deemed false, deceptive, misleading, or inaccurate and to levy heavy penalties against individuals involved in a host of criminalized cyberactivities. In December 2016, the High Court struck down a section of the law that allowed suspects who voluntarily confess to receive penalties before trial. The rest of the law was deemed constitutional. In June, a court sentenced a private citizen to three years in jail and a 7 million shilling ($3,100) fine for insulting Magufuli on Facebook. His sentence was subsequently reduced to only the fine. In September, five individuals were charged under the Electronic and Postal Communications Act No. 3 of 2010 over commentary about Magufuli on WhatsApp. In December, police raided the office of the popular online discussion website, JamiiForums, and interrogated employees. The raid came a day after police arrested the site's cofounder, Maxence Melo. He was detained for seven days and charged with obstructing a police investigation and using an unregistered domain. Melo later claimed that police had asked for the identities of whistleblowers who used the site. In December, the chief legal advisor of CHADEMA claimed that 142 people were arrested under the Cybercrimes Act from May to November 2016.

In November, Magufuli signed the Media Service Bill into law. The act seemingly aims to professionalize the journalism sector, and requires employers to provide insurance and social security. However, media stakeholders have objected to the constraints it places on journalists and news outlets, including the ambiguous prohibition of stories that would cause "grievance" to citizens. The act also includes a provision to create a government-controlled accreditation board empowered to suspend journalists. Reporters operating without a press card could be subject to three or more years in prison and at least a five million shilling ($2,200) fine under the law. In addition, the law empowers the information minister to set licensing requirements for newspapers.

In July, the television program "Take One" was forced to publicly apologize for LGBT advocacy, and in October, the telecommunications regulator suspended the program due to sexual content.

In July, a court convicted a police officer of manslaughter in the 2012 death of journalist Daudi Mwangosi, and sentenced him to 15 years in prison.

Press freedom in Zanzibar is more constrained than on the mainland. The Zanzibari government owns the only daily newspaper, and private media other than radio are nearly nonexistent. Journalist Salma Said was abducted and held for two days by unidentified men during the March 2016 electoral period.

Freedom of religion is generally respected. Relations between the various faiths are largely peaceful, though there have been periodic instances of violence. Politicians have used the specter of Islamic radicalism in Zanzibar to advance political goals.

Historically, there have been few government restrictions on academic freedom. The 2015 Statistics Act  which requires data released publicly to be first approved by the National Bureau of Statistics  has not yet, as feared by the law's critics, disproportionately affected researchers and academics.

People actively engage in private discussions, but the CCM uses a system of party-affiliated cells in urban and rural areas for public monitoring.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 6 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

The constitution guarantees freedom of assembly, but the government can limit this right. All assemblies require police approval, and critical political demonstrations are at times actively discouraged. In July 2016, authorities banned all public gatherings until further notice. CHADEMA's proposed "Day of Defiance" rally, scheduled for September and subsequently canceled, faced threats from the regional commissioner of Dar es Salaam, who instructed police to assault demonstrators.

There is generally freedom for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and more than 4,000 are registered. While current laws give the government the right to deregister NGOs, there has been little interference in NGO activity. Many groups, such as Research and Education for Democracy in Tanzania and the Legal and Human Rights Centrer, publish reports that are critical of the government. However, in September, two civil society leaders in Zanzibar criticized the government for politicizing civil society and failing to address issues raised by NGO stakeholders.

Trade unions are ostensibly independent of the government and are coordinated by the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania and the Zanzibar Trade Union Congress. The Tanzania Federation of Cooperatives represents most of Tanzania's agricultural sector. Essential public service workers are barred from striking, and other workers are restricted by complex notification and mediation requirements. Strikes are infrequent on both the mainland and Zanzibar.

F. Rule of Law 9 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

Tanzania's judiciary suffers from underfunding and corruption. Judges are political appointees, and the judiciary does not have an independent budget, which makes it vulnerable to political pressure. Rule of law does not always prevail in civil and criminal matters.

Despite recent improvements, policies and rules regarding arrest and pretrial detention are often ignored. Prisoners suffer from harsh conditions, including overcrowding and poor medical care. Security forces reportedly abuse, threaten, and mistreat civilians routinely and with limited accountability. Vigilante justice and mob violence are common, and security forces are often unable or unwilling to enforce the rule of law.

Tanzania's albino population has faced increasing violence over recent years. Albino body parts are believed to bring good luck, leading to the trafficking, death, and dismemberment of many albinos. In September 2016, unknown attackers attempted to chop off the legs and hands of the leader of an albino society. The Tanzania Albinism Society, an umbrella organization, aims to protect albinos, and the government has established sanctuaries for those who flee their communities.

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal and punishable by lengthy prison terms, and members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community face discrimination and police abuse. Most hide their sexual orientation. In September, the deputy health minister threatened to ban NGOs that support LGBT causes and blamed LGBT people for spreading HIV. In July, the regional commissioner of Dar es Salaam claimed that he would monitor social media posts to find and arrest gay people.

More than 250,000 refugees from conflicts in neighboring countries reside in Tanzania.

As of April, Tanzania was home to over 130,000 Burundian refugees, many of whom entered the country in 2015 following an outbreak of civil unrest. Refugee camps are overburdened.

Human rights advocates have criticized the 2002 Prevention of Terrorism Act for giving police and immigration officials sweeping powers to arrest suspected illegal immigrants.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 9 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

Citizens generally enjoy basic freedoms in travel, residence, employment, and education. However, the prevalence of petty corruption can inhibit these freedoms.

Tanzanians have the right to establish private businesses but are often required to pay bribes to set up and operate them. The state remains the owner of all land and leases to individuals and private entities, leading to clashes between citizens and private companies. A 2016 report by a special commission appointed by the Mines Ministry estimated that over the last decade, police were responsible for 65 deaths and 270 injuries during clashes with villagers at a Canadian-owned mine in northern Tanzania. Land-use conflicts exist in ancestral lands and near nature reserves and national parks, where the government has restricted grazing.

Women's rights are constitutionally guaranteed but not uniformly protected. Rape, female genital mutilation, and domestic violence are reportedly common but rarely prosecuted. Around 37 percent of underage girls are married. To help combat this problem, the Constitutional Court established in July 2016 that the minimum marriage age is 18. Women have high descriptive representation, due to gender quotas in Tanzania's legislatures. In 2015, Samia Suluhu Hassan became the country's first woman vice president. Four female ministers and five female deputy ministers serve in the cabinet.

In September 2016, the government announced that it would bolster its border security to target human trafficking.

Equality of economic opportunity is limited, and there is continued economic exploitation. Poverty, especially in rural areas, affects approximately 33 percent of the population.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Freedom in the World 2017 - Sri Lanka

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - Sri Lanka, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a6aa.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Partly Free

Aggregate Score: 56/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 3.5/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 3/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 4/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Ratings Change:

Sri Lanka's political rights rating improved from 4 to 3 due to ongoing reforms to the constitution and electoral processes, and because the government has taken steps to combat corruption.

Quick Facts

Population: 21,200,000

Capital: Colombo

GDP/capita: $3,926

Press Freedom Status: Not Free

Net Freedom Status: Partly Free

OVERVIEW

Mahinda Rajapaksa oversaw the abolition of term limits after he was reelected president in 2010, and suppressed criticism from dissenters while consolidating power. Rajapaksa suffered a surprise defeat in the 2015 elections, and since then Sri Lanka has experienced improvements in political and civil liberties under the new administration of President Maithripala Sirisena.

Key Developments in 2016:

In June, Parliament passed a long-awaited Right to Information Act.

In August, Parliament approved a bill that established an Office of Missing Persons, marking a step forward in the transitional justice and reconciliation process.

Executive Summary:

President Maithripala Sirisena's administration continued working on electoral, constitutional, and other reforms, and sought out public input on these processes. The Right to Information Act, which had been introduced in 2015, was approved by the parliament in June, and the Information Ministry worked on preparations for its full implementation in 2017. In August, parliament approved legislation that established an Office of Missing Persons, which is tasked with setting up a database of missing persons, advocating for the missing persons and their families, and recommending redress. Separately, a draft constitution with new checks on executive power is expected to be released in 2017.

An opposition political grouping known as the Joint Opposition experienced some pressure during the year, with Sirisena at one point threatening to reveal "secrets" about its members. Separately, Sirisena accused an independent anticorruption commission of politicization, in remarks that drew widespread criticism as a departure from his government's anticorruption efforts, which have included a number of high profile investigations.

Religious extremist groups continued to harass minorities and advocates of religious tolerance, albeit with less frequency than in previous years.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 24 / 40 (+1)

A. Electoral Process 8 / 12

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

The 1978 constitution vested strong executive powers in the president, but the approval in 2015 of the 19th Amendment curtailed those powers somewhat by reintroducing term limits  limiting the president to two five-year terms  and requiring the president to consult the prime minister on ministerial appointments. The prime minister heads the leading party in Parliament, but has limited authority. The 225-member unicameral Parliament is elected for six-year terms through a mixed proportional representation system.

In the January 2015 presidential election, President Mahinda Rajapaksa suffered a surprise defeat, with his opponent, Sirisena, winning 51 percent of the vote; turnout was a record 82 percent.

In the August 2015 parliamentary elections, the United National Party (UNP) led a coalition, the National Front for Good Governance, to a modest victory, winning 106 seats, a 46-seat increase from the 2010 polls. The United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) took 95 seats, a decline of 49, while the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), the largest party representing the ethnic minority, won 16 seats, an increase of 2. The UNP formed a government with the backing of smaller parties on a platform of undertaking a wide range of electoral and governance-related reforms. Ranil Wickremesinghe, long-time leader of the UNP, became prime minister, and a new cabinet was drawn from a range of coalition partners, including the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), one of the parties that comprised the UPFA.

In the run-up to the presidential election, groups such as the Center for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) accused the government of acts of violence and of inappropriate use of state resources  particularly transportation, infrastructure, police services, and the media. While dozens of violent incidents were reported prior to the parliamentary elections later in 2015  including several murders  the polling itself was considered credible.

Local elections, originally set for 2015, had still not been held by the end of 2016, with the government citing issues involving the delimitation of voting districts.

Lawmakers continued debating electoral reforms in 2016, but progress was slow, due in part to differing opinions over whether constitutional reforms should come before or after electoral ones. A draft constitution with new checks on executive power is expected to be released in 2017.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 10 / 16

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

A range of political parties, some of which explicitly represent the interests of ethnic and religious minority groups, are able to operate freely and contest elections. In addition to Prime Wickremesinghe's UNP and the UPFA, other major parties include the Marxist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP); the TNA and several smaller Tamil parties; the Buddhist nationalist Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU); and the Sri Lankan Muslim Congress, the country's largest Muslim party.

Following a 2015 coalition agreement between the UNP and SLFP, disgruntled SLFP members including Rajapaksa, along with other lawmakers, vowed to sit in the opposition, and this political bloc experienced pressure in 2016. The parliament speaker drew criticism in February after refusing to recognize the group, known as the Joint Opposition, as an independent parliamentary grouping, while President Sirisena in August threatened that he would reveal "secrets" about his rivals within the group if they formally established a new party.

Harassment of opposition politicians also took place in the lead-up to the January 2015 election, but declined markedly for the August 2015 parliamentary polls. Tamil political parties and civilians faced less harassment and fewer hindrances in voting during 2015 presidential and parliamentary elections, compared to the 2010 elections.

C. Functioning of Government 7 / 12 (+1)

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

Government accountability has improved under Sirisena, as the Rajapaksa family's power over various ministries waned and Parliament has taken a greater role in setting policy. The passage of the 19th Amendment in 2015 and the strengthening of independent commissions  including the National Human Rights Commission and the National Police Commission  represented important steps toward improving accountability mechanisms and reversing Rajapaksa's consolidation of executive power.

The Sirisena administration continued its efforts to fight corruption in 2016, though some critics note that a flurry of corruption investigations and related arrests have led to few major prosecutions. Several investigations focused on members of Rajapaksa's family. In June, Namal Rajapaksa, his oldest son, was arrested on charges related to an allegedly illicit real estate deal.

Separately, President Sirisena in October 2016 accused an independent antigraft commission of political bias; his statement was widely characterized as a departure from his administration's ongoing anticorruption efforts, and as serving to undermine the commission. The commission's head resigned in the wake of Sirisena's remarks.

In June 2016, Parliament passed a right to information act the cabinet had approved in late 2015. The Information Ministry began training staff and setting up specialized departments in preparation for the act's implementation in 2017.

Additional Discretionary Political Rights Question B -1 / 0

Is the government or occupying power deliberately changing the ethnic composition of a country or territory so as to destroy a culture or tip the political balance in favor of another group?

1. Is the government providing economic or other incentives to certain people in order to change the ethnic composition of a region or regions?

2. Is the government forcibly moving people in or out of certain areas in order to change the ethnic composition of those regions?

3. Is the government arresting, imprisoning, or killing members of certain ethnic groups in order change the ethnic composition of a region or regions?

Following the end of the Sri Lankan Civil War in 2009, the traditionally Tamil areas of the north and east have seen a heightened military presence. The Rajapaksa government encouraged settlement by ethnic Sinhalese civilians by providing land certificates, housing, and other infrastructure with the aim of diluting Tamil dominance in these areas. While such policies have ended under the new government, and some land has been released, displacement of Tamil civilians remains a concern.

Civil Liberties 32 / 60

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 9 / 16

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

Freedom of expression is guaranteed in the constitution, and respect for this right has dramatically improved since 2015. Since then, laws restricting media freedom have been invoked less frequently, verbal and physical attacks on journalists have decreased, and several investigations into journalists' killings have been reopened.

However, media space is not entirely free. Senior officials have expressed hostility toward the media in public remarks, including the country's prime minister, who in July 2016 publicly claimed that some journalists were "conspiring against the government," and threatened to name the purported offenders. Earlier in the year, a cabinet official warned journalists not to cover activities of the Joint Opposition. The government in March also renewed calls for news websites to register with the Media Ministry or risk being deemed unlawful; in the past, failure to register had been cited as a pretext to shut down websites that were critical of the government. In September, a 26-year-old man was arrested for video recording on his mobile phone the president landing in a helicopter; he was later released on bail.

The constitution gives special status to Buddhism. Religious minorities face discrimination and occasional violence. Tensions between the Buddhist majority and the Christian and Muslim minorities  particularly evangelical Christian groups, which are accused of forced conversions  sporadically flare into attacks by Buddhist extremists. In recent years, the minority Ahmadiyya Muslim sect has faced increased threats and attacks from Sunni Muslims, who accuse Ahmadis of apostasy. In August 2016, Buddhist extremists disrupted a peaceful vigil meant to promote religious tolerance. Separately, in 2016, Tamil groups in the north drew attention to the construction of Buddhist structures in close proximity to Hindu places of worship, and in areas where they said there were no Buddhists.

Academic freedom is generally respected, but there are occasional reports of politicization in universities and a lack of tolerance for dissenting views by both professors and students, particularly for academics who study Tamil issues, according to the Federation of University Teachers' Associations.

The current government is not known to monitor or restrict access to the internet, and private discussion remains fairly free.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 8 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

Although demonstrations occur regularly, authorities sometimes restrict freedom of assembly. Police occasionally use tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters, and were slow to respond to the disruption of the August 2016 vigil for religious tolerance. The army has imposed some restrictions on assembly in the north and east, particularly for planned memorial events concerning the end of the long-running civil war between the government and ethnic Tamil rebels.

Conditions for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have improved dramatically since the new government took office in 2015, with a lessening of official harassment and interference. However, some NGOs have faced difficulty operating in the northern and eastern areas of the country, although the United Nations and humanitarian organizations are generally given adequate access to former conflict zones. In 2016, the government notably engaged with civil society groups on several initiatives, including the Right to Information Act.

Most of Sri Lanka's trade unions are independent and legally allowed to engage in collective bargaining, but this right is poorly respected. Except for civil servants, most workers can hold strikes, though the 1989 Essential Services Act allows the president to declare any strike illegal. While more than 70 percent of the mainly Tamil workers on tea plantations are unionized, employers routinely violate their rights. Harassment of labor activists and official intolerance of union activities, particularly in export processing zones, are regularly reported.

F. Rule of Law 7 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

Corruption and politicization remains common in the lower courts, but the level of threats and political interference that occurred under Rajapaksa has abated somewhat under the new government. However in, in 2016 there was evidence of the executive attempting to influence the judiciary; for instance, Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in July asked the parliament speaker to overrule a Supreme Court judgment.

Police and security forces occasionally engage in abusive practices, including arbitrary arrest, extrajudicial execution, forced disappearance, custodial rape, torture, and prolonged detention without trial, all of which disproportionately affect Tamils. Due to huge backlogs and a lack of resources, independent commissions have been slow to investigate allegations of police and military misconduct.

Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), suspects can be detained for up to 18 months without trial. The law has been used to detain perceived enemies of the government, and many detained under the PTA's provisions have been held for longer than the law mandates is legal; civil society groups have been clamoring for its repeal. A draft of a new Counter Terrorism Act (CTA) intended to replace the PTA was released in October 2016, but prompted concern among civil society groups and other observers for its broad scope and lack of oversight provisions.

Some 65,000 people have been reported disappeared since the government began accepting such reports in 1994; the disappearances occurred during two conflicts: an uprising in the late 1980s, and the 26-year civil war that ended in 2009. In August 2016, parliament approved legislation that established an Office of Missing Persons, which is tasked with setting up a database of missing persons, advocating for the missing persons and their families, and recommending redress. While the development won praise from domestic and international observers, rights advocates also said the government failed to consult adequately with the families of missing persons as the bill was being developed. Separately, The Internal Displacement Monitoring Center estimated that around 73,700 internally displaced persons remained in Sri Lanka as of July 2015.

Tamils report systematic discrimination in areas including government employment, university education, and access to justice. The status of Sinhala as the official language puts Tamils and other non-Sinhala speakers at a disadvantage. Ethnic tensions occasionally lead to violence.

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people face societal discrimination, occasional instances of violence and some official harassment, though government officials have stated that LGBT people are constitutionally protected from discrimination. Sex "against the order of nature" is a criminal offense, but cases are rarely prosecuted. An August 2016 report by Human Rights Watch found that transgender people in particular face discrimination, including the inability to update their identity documentation with their preferred gender and police harassment at checkpoints.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 8 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

Freedom of movement is restricted by security checkpoints, particularly in the north, but recent years have seen greater freedom of travel. Government appropriation of land in the north and east as part of economic development projects or "high security zones" following the end of the civil war had prevented local people from returning to their property. However, the Sirisena administration has released some military-held land for resettlement by displaced civilians. There have been few official attempts to help Muslims forcibly ejected from the north by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE or Tamil Tigers) rebel group in the early 1990s to return to their homes. Access to education is affected by corruption from the primary through the tertiary levels.

Women are underrepresented in politics, on independent commissions, and in the civil service. Female employees in the private sector face sexual harassment as well as discrimination in salary and promotion opportunities. Rape of women and children and domestic violence remain serious problems. Although women have equal rights under civil and criminal law, matters related to the family  including marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance  are adjudicated under the customary law of each ethnic or religious group, and the application of these laws sometimes results in discrimination against women. Women make up just 35 percent of the labor force, and they are also often barred from access to information and communications technology, particularly in rural areas, and are more susceptible to poverty.

Although the government has increased penalties for employing minors, thousands of children continue to work as household servants, and many face abuse. Throughout the country, the military's role and expanded size under former president Rajapaksa and its presence in a variety of economic sectors  including tourism and infrastructure projects  remain causes for concern.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Freedom in the World 2017 - South Korea

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - South Korea, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a6bc.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Free

Aggregate Score: 82/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 2/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 2/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 2/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Quick Facts

Population: 50,800,000

Capital: Seoul

GDP/capita: $27,222

Press Freedom Status: Partly Free

Net Freedom Status: Partly Free

OVERVIEW

South Korea's democratic system features regular rotations of power and robust political pluralism, with the two largest parties representing conservative and liberal views. Personal freedoms are generally respected, though the country continues to struggle with minority rights and social integration, especially for North Korean defectors, LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people, and immigrants. The population is also subject to legal bans on pro  North Korean activity, which have sometimes been invoked to curb legitimate political expression.

Key Developments in 2016:

In April legislative elections, the liberal opposition Minjoo Party won an upset victory, narrowly edging out the ruling conservative Saenuri Party.

A scandal that broke in October revealed corruption and extensive interference in state affairs by Choi Soon-sil, a longtime friend of President Park Geun-hye.

In response, protests calling for Park's resignation ensued across the country, and the National Assembly voted in December to impeach her. The Constitutional Court was considering the matter at year's end.

Executive Summary:

The Minjoo Party's narrow defeat of the Saenuri Party in April 2016 legislative elections was seen as a rebuke of Park Geun-hye's performance as president, with voters acting on frustration over a sluggish economy, a growing number of corruption scandals, allegations of abuse of power, mounting tensions with North Korea, and the imposition of a new antiterrorism law that could be used to limit political dissent.

In October, the media exposed a scandal surrounding the relationship between Park and her close friend Choi Soon-sil. The president had allegedly allowed Choi to access confidential information and exploit her friendship to influence government affairs and extort money and favors from third parties. Choi was arrested, and multiple investigations were under way at year's end.

Park initially issued two public apologies for her misconduct, replaced officials who had come under suspicion, and nominated a new prime minister, though the National Assembly quickly rejected her choice, leaving incumbent Hwang Kyo-ahn in office.

Protests calling for Park's resignation or impeachment steadily grew in size, and the National Assembly ultimately voted to impeach her in early December. Executive authority was transferred to the prime minister pending a Constitutional Court review of the charges against Park. A decision was due within 180 days, after which either a presidential election would be held or Park's powers would be restored.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 32 / 40 (-2)

A. Electoral Process 11 / 12

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

The 1988 constitution vests executive power in a directly elected president, who is limited to a single five-year term. In the 2012 presidential election, Park of the Saenuri Party defeated Democratic United Party (DUP) candidate Moon Jae-in, 52 percent to 48 percent, to become the first female president of the Republic of Korea.

The unicameral National Assembly is composed of 300 members serving four-year terms. In the April 2016 legislative elections, the Minjoo Party (formerly the New Politics Alliance for Democracy, or NPAD) won 123 seats, while Saenuri won only 122. The centrist People's Party won 38 seats, and minor parties and independents secured the remaining 17 seats. Although liberal and centrist opposition parties won a total of 167 seats, they failed to gain the 180-seat supermajority needed to pass major reform legislation.

In December 2016, the National Assembly voted  234 to 56  to impeach Park based on 13 allegations of misconduct stemming from the Choi scandal, handing the case over to the Constitutional Court for review. Presidential authority was transferred to the prime minister pending the court's decision.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 13 / 16

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

Political pluralism is robust, with multiple parties competing for power and succeeding one another in government. The two dominant parties as of 2016 were the ruling conservative Saenuri Party and the liberal Minjoo Party, though party structures and coalitions are relatively fluid. In December 2016, after Park's impeachment, the New Reform Conservative Party was established as the result of a split in Saenuri.

Only once, in December 2014, has a political party  the United Progressive Party  been dissolved by the Constitutional Court on the grounds that it violated the National Security Law, which bans pro  North Korean activities. Separately, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) has been implicated in a series of scandals in recent years, including allegations that it interfered in political affairs and sought to influence the 2012 election in Park's favor.

Although ethnic minority citizens enjoy full political rights under the law, they rarely win political representation. Philippine-born Jasmine Lee of Saenuri lost her National Assembly seat in the 2016 elections, leaving no lawmakers of non-Korean ethnicity in the chamber.

C. Functioning of Government 8 / 12 (-2)

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

Elected officials generally determine and implement state policy without undue interference from unelected entities and interests. However, despite government anticorruption efforts, bribery, influence peddling, and extortion persist in politics, business, and everyday life.

The controversial Kim Young-ran Act, which took effect in September 2016, establishes stiff punishments for those convicted of accepting bribes, and eliminates the need to prove a direct link between a gift and a favor to secure a conviction. The law targets government officials, but it is also applicable to spouses, journalists, and educators  roughly 4 million people. It sets strict limits on acceptable costs of meals and gifts if a conflict of interest is possible.

In October, a major corruption scandal revealed extensive collusion between President Park and her close friend Choi Soon-sil, who held no government office. Media and law enforcement investigations uncovered evidence that Park's administration had shared confidential and even classified information with Choi, and that Choi used her relationship with Park to manipulate government affairs and extort money and favors from others, including major corporations. Choi was arrested, and a special prosecutor was assigned to the case. Park herself was immune from prosecution until formally removed from office by the Constitutional Court.

Civil Liberties 50 / 60 (+1)

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 13 / 16 (+1)

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

The news media are generally free and competitive. Newspapers are privately owned and report aggressively on government policies and allegations of official and corporate wrongdoing. Some forms of official censorship are legal, however. Under the National Security Law, listening to North Korean radio is illegal, as is posting pro-North messages online; authorities have deleted tens of thousands of posts deemed to be pro-North, drawing accusations that the law's broadly written provisions are being used to circumscribe political expression. Journalists at major news outlets have faced political interference from managers or the government. Under the Park administration, there was more liberal use of defamation charges against government critics, with possible punishments of up to seven years in prison. Nevertheless, the media reported extensively on the Choi scandal during 2016.

The constitution provides for freedom of religion, and it is respected in practice.

Academic freedom is mostly unrestricted, though the National Security Law limits statements supporting the North Korean regime or communism. In addition, the new anticorruption law subjects public and private school teachers and administrators to the same oversight as public officials, potentially exposing educators to increased government influence or intimidation. In late 2015, the Park administration announced its decision to require middle and high schools to use history textbooks produced by an official institute, rather than choosing from a variety of options. However, the Ministry of Education reversed the requirement after Park's impeachment in 2016.

Private discussion is typically free and open, and the government generally respects citizens' right to privacy. A wiretap law sets the conditions under which the government may monitor telephone calls, mail, and e-mail. In March 2016, a new antiterrorism law was adopted after an eight-day filibuster attempt by the opposition. The legislation grants the NIS expanded authority to conduct wiretaps, and its vague definition of "terrorism" raised concerns that it would enable the agency to monitor government critics, particularly online.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 11 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

The government generally respects freedoms of assembly and association, which are protected under the constitution. However, several legal provisions conflict with these principles, creating tension between the police and protesters over the application of the law. For instance, the Law on Assembly and Demonstration prohibits activities that might cause social unrest, and police must be notified of all demonstrations. Local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have alleged that police who mistreat demonstrators have not been penalized equally with protesters under this law. In the wake of sometimes violent antigovernment protests in 2015, a June 2016 report from the UN special rapporteur on freedoms of assembly and association criticized South Korean police tactics that increased the risk of clashes and injuries at protests, including excessive use of water cannons and bus barricades.

Police and protesters largely avoided serious confrontations during a series of major political protests that began in July 2016  when the government announced plans to deploy a controversial U.S. missile-defense system on South Korean soil  and peaked ahead of Park's impeachment in December.

Human rights groups, social welfare organizations, and other NGOs are active and generally operate freely. The country's independent labor unions advocate workers' interests, organizing high-profile strikes and demonstrations that sometimes lead to arrests. However, labor unions in general have diminished in strength and popularity, especially as the employment of temporary workers increases. Several unionists remained in detention during 2016 after facing charges for the labor-related political protests in 2015, and the president of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions was sentenced to five years in prison in July 2016  reduced to three years on appeal in December  for offenses linked to the protest violence. In late September, Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union affiliates began a strike against new labor guidelines that allowed for workers to be fired more easily, among other provisions. An October strike of more than 7,000 owner-operators in the trucking industry against plans to deregulate the transport sector was declared illegal by the government, leading to dozens of arrests.

F. Rule of Law 13 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

The judiciary is generally considered to be independent. Judges render verdicts in all cases. While there is no trial by jury, an advisory jury system has been in place since 2008, and judges largely respect juries' decisions. Reports of beatings or intimidation by guards in South Korea's prisons are infrequent.

The country's few ethnic minorities encounter legal and societal discrimination. Residents who are not ethnic Koreans face extreme difficulties obtaining citizenship, which is based on parentage rather than place of birth. Lack of citizenship bars them from the civil service and limits job opportunities at some major corporations. A 2016 report by the National Human Rights Commission of Korea found that children of foreign-born residents in South Korea suffer from racial discrimination and systemic exclusion from the education and medical systems. It is estimated that there are some 20,000 stateless children residing in South Korea.

There were roughly 30,000 North Korean defectors in South Korea at the end of 2016. Defectors are eligible for South Korean citizenship, but they can face months of detention and interrogations upon arrival, and some have reported abuse in custody and societal discrimination. In March 2016, the National Assembly passed the North Korean Human Rights Act, which created transparent guidelines to safeguard the human rights of current and former North Korean citizens. It establishes a Human Rights Advisory Committee within the Ministry of Unification to develop a long-term plan addressing human rights dialogue and humanitarian assistance, and a Human Rights Foundation to conduct policy research on these topics and provide support to NGOs working on North Korean human rights issues.

Same-sex sexual relations are generally legal, and the law bars discrimination based on sexual orientation, but transgender people are not specifically protected, and societal discrimination against LGBT people persists. In July 2016, the Constitutional Court upheld a provision of the Military Criminal Act that bans sexual acts between male soldiers.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 13 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

Travel both within South Korea and abroad is unrestricted, though travel to North Korea requires government approval. South Korea fully recognizes property rights and has a well-developed body of laws governing the establishment of commercial enterprises, though the economy remains dominated by large family-owned conglomerates that have been accused of collusion with political figures, as evidenced in the Choi scandal.

South Korean women have legal equality, and a 2005 Supreme Court ruling granted married women equal rights with respect to inheritance. Women face social and employment discrimination in practice, and continue to be underrepresented in government. According to the World Economic Forum's 2016 Global Gender Gap Index, South Korea ranks 116 out of 144 countries in terms of gender parity. In January 2016, as part of an effort to combat domestic violence, the government proposed stronger penalties for stalking, including up to two years in prison rather than the small fine prescribed under current law.

In May 2016, the first lawsuit seeking recognition of same-sex marriage was rejected by a district court, which upheld the definition of marriage under the Act on Family Registration as a union between different sexes.

Foreign migrant workers are vulnerable to debt bondage and forced labor, including forced prostitution. Korean women and foreign women recruited by international marriage brokers can also become sex-trafficking victims. Although the government actively prosecutes human trafficking cases, those convicted often receive light punishments.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Freedom in the World 2017 - North Korea

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - North Korea, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a6dc.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Not Free

Aggregate Score: 3/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 7/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 7/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 7/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Quick Facts

Population: 25,100,000

Capital: Pyongyang

GDP/capita: $1,800

Press Freedom Status: Not Free

OVERVIEW

North Korea is a single-party state led by a dynastic totalitarian dictatorship. Surveillance is pervasive, arbitrary arrests and detention are common, and punishments for political offenses are severe. The state maintains a system of camps for political prisoners where torture, forced labor, starvation, and other atrocities take place. A UN commission of inquiry into the human rights situation in North Korea in 2014 found violations to be widespread, grave, and systematic, rising to the level of crimes against humanity.

Key Developments in 2016:

In 2016, North Korea conducted two nuclear weapons tests, a satellite launch, and more than 20 ballistic missile tests, drawing condemnation and harsher sanctions from the international community.

In May, the ruling Korean Workers' Party (KWP) held its first congress in 36 years, which reinforced the state's ideological roots, announced a new Five-Year Plan, and created the post of KWP chairman for incumbent leader Kim Jong-un.

At the June session of the Supreme People's Assembly, North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament, the State Affairs Commission was established as the government's new top power organ, with Kim Jong-un serving as chairman.

Executive Summary:

North Korea began 2016 by conducting a nuclear weapons test in January and a satellite launch in February, both prohibited under existing UN resolutions. In response, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2270, which imposed tougher sanctions on the country, including restrictions on mineral exports. Nevertheless, the regime subsequently proceeded with more than 20 ballistic missile tests, as well as its fifth nuclear test in September. The Security Council followed up with additional sanctions in November.

In May, the ruling KWP held its first party congress since 1980 and its seventh overall. The party introduced a new Five-Year Plan at the gathering, and adopted revisions to its charter, including the institutionalization of the so-called byungjin policy of dual nuclear and economic development and the creation of the post of party chairman for Kim Jong-un. In June, the Supreme People's Assembly adopted constitutional changes that established the State Affairs Commission, replacing the National Defense Commission as the highest ruling organ.

In August, flooding caused by Typhoon Lionrock devastated parts of North Hamgyong Province, killing hundreds of people, destroying tens of thousands of homes, and leaving at least 140,000 people in urgent need of assistance. The scale of the disaster led North Korea to move domestic resources to this area and seek international humanitarian assistance. However, international responses were limited due to the regime's provocative behavior throughout the year.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 0 / 40

A. Electoral Process 0 / 12

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

Kim Jong-un became the country's supreme leader after the death of his father, Kim Jong-il, in December 2011. The elder Kim had led North Korea since the 1994 death of his own father, Kim Il-sung, to whom the office of president was permanently dedicated in a 1998 constitutional revision. In June 2016, the Supreme People's Assembly established the State Affairs Commission as the country's top ruling organ and elected Kim Jong-un as chairman. Kim already held a variety of other titles, including first chairman of the National Defense Commission  previously the highest state body  and supreme commander of the Korean People's Army.

The 687-seat Supreme People's Assembly is elected to five-year terms. All candidates for office, who run unopposed, are preselected by and from the KWP and a handful of subordinate parties and organizations. Kim Jong-un was among those who won seats in the most recent national elections, held in March 2014. The official voter turnout was 99.97 percent.

Elections were held in July 2015 for 28,452 provincial, city, and county people's assembly members. Voter turnout was again reported to be 99.97 percent, with all candidates preselected by the KWP and running unopposed.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 0 / 16

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

North Korea is effectively a one-party state. Although a small number of minor parties and organizations exist legally, all are members of the Democratic Front for the Reunification of the Fatherland, a KWP-led umbrella group that selects all candidates for elected office. The ruling party has been dominated by the Kim family since its founding. The late Kim Jong-il was dubbed the "eternal general secretary" of the party after his death.

In May 2016, the KWP held its seventh party congress, the first since 1980. In a tightly controlled process, delegates reiterated the ideological underpinnings of the party, reviewed its performance, and introduced a new Five-Year Plan, also the first since 1980. Key changes to the KWP charter that were adopted at the gathering institutionalized the byungjin policy of dual nuclear and economic development and established the new leadership positions of chairman and vice chairman. Kim Jong-un, previously the party's "first secretary," was elected chairman, and other elections for key committees were held, including the Central Committee.

Any political dissent or opposition is harshly punished, and even the KWP is subject to regular purges aimed at reinforcing the leader's personal authority. Executions of dismissed cabinet officials continued to be reported in 2016.

North Korea is ethnically homogeneous, with only small Chinese populations and few foreign residents. Foreigners are not allowed to join the KWP or serve in the military or government.

C. Functioning of Government 0 / 12

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

North Korea's dictatorial government is neither transparent in its operations nor accountable to the public. Information about the functioning of state institutions is tightly controlled for both domestic and external audiences. Most observers must glean evidence from state media, defector testimony, or secret informants inside the country, and the accuracy and reliability of these sources varies considerably. Corruption is believed to be endemic at every level of the state and economy, and bribery is pervasive.

Civil Liberties 3 / 60

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 0 / 16

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

All domestic media outlets are run by the state. Televisions and radios are permanently fixed to state channels, and all publications are subject to strict supervision and censorship. In recent years, several foreign news agencies have established bureau offices in Pyongyang: the U.S.-based Associated Press, Russia's Sputnik International (formerly RIA Novosti), Japan's Kyodo, and China's Xinhua. In September 2016, Agence France-Presse officially opened its Pyongyang bureau, though it will largely be limited to filing photos and video. A British Broadcasting Corporation crew was detained and expelled in May for coverage that the authorities found objectionable.

Access to the global internet is restricted to a small number of people in the government and academia, and others have access to a national intranet on which foreign websites are blocked. Alternative information sources, including mobile telephones, pirated recordings of South Korean dramas, and radios capable of receiving foreign programs are increasingly available. Mobile-phone service was launched in 2008, and there were more than 3 million subscriptions as of 2015, though phone calls and text messages are generally recorded and transcribed for monitoring purposes. Foreigners, who operate on a separate network, have been allowed to bring mobile phones into the country and have access to 3G service, enabling live social-media feeds out of North Korea.

Although freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution, it does not exist in practice. State-sanctioned churches maintain a token presence in Pyongyang, and some North Koreans who live near the Chinese border are known to practice their faiths furtively. However, intense state indoctrination and repression preclude free exercise of religion.

There is no academic freedom. The state must approve all curriculums, including those of educational programs led by foreigners. Although some North Koreans are permitted to study abroad, at both universities and short-term educational training programs, those granted such opportunities are subject to monitoring and reprisals for perceived disloyalty.

Nearly all forms of private communication are monitored by a huge network of informants.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 0 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

Freedom of assembly is not recognized, and there are no known associations or organizations other than those created by the state. Strikes, collective bargaining, and other organized labor activities are illegal.

F. Rule of Law 0 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

North Korea does not have an independent judiciary. The UN General Assembly has recognized and condemned the country's severe human rights violations, including torture, public executions, extrajudicial and arbitrary detention, and forced labor by detainees; the absence of due process and the rule of law; and death sentences for political offenses. A UN commission of inquiry into the human rights situation in North Korea in 2014 found these violations to be widespread, grave, and systematic, rising to the level of crimes against humanity. Since then, there have been ongoing efforts to convince the UN Security Council to refer the case to the International Criminal Court.

It is estimated that 80,000 to 120,000 political prisoners are held in detention camps in the country. Inmates face brutal conditions, and collective or familial punishment for suspected dissent by an individual is common practice.

Ignoring international objections, the Chinese government continues to return refugees and defectors to North Korea, where they are subject to torture, harsh imprisonment, or execution. North Korean authorities regularly detain foreign citizens on various charges, obtaining coerced confessions, sometimes imposing harsh prison terms, and typically using the detainees as diplomatic leverage before eventually granting their release.

The most prevalent form of discrimination is based on perceived political and ideological nonconformity rather than ethnicity. All citizens are classified according to their family's level of loyalty and proximity to the leadership under a semihereditary caste-like system known as songbun.

Laws do not prohibit same-sex sexual activity, but the government maintains that the practice does not exist in North Korea.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 3 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

Citizens have no freedom of movement, and forced internal resettlement is routine. Emigration is illegal, but many North Koreans have escaped via China. Access to Pyongyang, where the availability of food, housing, and health care is somewhat better than in the rest of the country, is tightly restricted. Recently, this disparity has increased, with the capital featuring more luxuries for a growing middle class. A person's songbun classification affects his or her place of residence as well as employment and educational opportunities, access to medical facilities, and even access to stores. Foreign residents tend to have somewhat more freedom of movement, being able to travel abroad and participate in trade.

The formal economy remains both centrally planned and grossly mismanaged. Business activity is also hobbled by a lack of infrastructure, a scarcity of energy and raw materials, an inability to borrow on world markets or from multilateral banks because of sanctions, lingering foreign debt, and ideological isolationism. However, expanding informal and government-approved private markets and service industries have provided many North Koreans with a growing field of activity that is comparatively free from government control, if not from bribery and extortion; some have managed to engage in cross-border trade with China. In addition, a greater emphasis on building special economic zones has led to conditions more conducive to foreign investment. Local officials have had some authority in the management of these zones and over small-scale experiments with economic policies.

Women have formal equality, but they face rigid discrimination in practice and are poorly represented at high levels of government and in public employment. Although they have fewer opportunities in the formal sector, women are economically active outside the socialist system, exposing them to arbitrary state restrictions.

UN bodies have noted the use of forced abortions and infanticide against pregnant women who are forcibly repatriated from China. There have been widespread reports of trafficked women and girls among the tens of thousands of North Koreans who have recently crossed into China. Prostitution is rampant in ordinary residential areas.

Forced labor is common in prison camps, mass mobilization programs, and state-run contracting arrangements in which North Korean workers are sent abroad.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Freedom in the World 2017 - Bolivia

Publisher Freedom House Publication Date 12 June 2017 Cite as Freedom House, Freedom in the World 2017 - Bolivia, 12 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479a6e21.html [accessed 11 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.

Freedom Status: Partly Free

Aggregate Score: 68/100 (0 = Least Free, 100 = Most Free)

Freedom Rating: 7/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Political Rights: 3/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Civil Liberties: 3/7 (1 = Most Free, 7 = Least Free)

Quick Facts

Population: 11,000,000

Capital: Sucre

GDP/capita: $3,077

Press Freedom Status: Partly Free

OVERVIEW

Bolivia is a democracy where credible elections are held regularly. However, respect for freedom of expression and the rights of indigenous peoples and women remain issues, as does corruption, particularly within the judicial system.

Key Developments in 2016:

In February, voters rejected a referendum that would have permitted President Evo Morales to run for a fourth term.

Despite the referendum's defeat, Morales's Movement for Socialism (MAS) voted in December to approve him as its candidate for the 2019 presidential election.

In August, Vice Minister of Interior Rodolfo Illanes was kidnapped and murdered by protesting miners.

Executive Summary:

In February 2016, voters rejected a referendum that would have permitted Morales to run for a fourth term, in what was seen as a major defeat for the president. Nevertheless, in December, the MAS voted to approve Morales as its candidate for the presidential election set for 2019, and signaled that it might undertake legal reforms order to permit him to do so.

Bolivia has a vibrant civil society, but occasional outbursts of violence at demonstrations remain a concern. In August 2016, Vice Minister of the Interior Rodolfo Illanes was abducted while traveling to speak with a group of miners who were protesting environmental and labor regulations. The government announced later that he had been killed.

POLITICAL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES

Political Rights 29 / 40

A. Electoral Process 11 / 12

A1. Is the head of government or other chief national authority elected through free and fair elections?

A2. Are the national legislative representatives elected through free and fair elections?

A3. Are the electoral laws and framework fair?

Bolivia's president is directly elected, and presidential and legislative terms are both five years. The Plurinational Legislative Assembly consists of a 130-member Chamber of Deputies and a 36-member Senate. All senators and 53 deputies are elected by proportional representation, and 70 deputies are elected in individual districts. Seven seats in the Chamber of Deputies are reserved for indigenous representatives. The 2009 constitution introduced a presidential runoff provision.

In the 2014 general elections, Morales was reelected president with 61 percent of the vote. Samuel Doria Medina of the Democratic Union Front (UD) obtained 24 percent of votes, and the three remaining candidates shared less than 15 percent of votes. In concurrent legislative elections, Morales's MAS party maintained a two-thirds majority in the Plurinational Legislative Assembly, the share necessary to pass constitutional reforms. The MAS took 89 seats in the lower house and 25 seats in the Senate, while the opposition UD won 31 deputies and 9 senators, followed by the Christian Democratic Party (PDC) with 10 deputies and 2 senators. The Organization of American States (OAS) electoral observation mission stated that the elections reflected the will of the people, but recommended that Bolivia strengthen its electoral institutions and campaign finance system.

In March 2015 subnational elections, the MAS won control of more departments and municipalities across the country than any other party. However, the opposition won key mayoralties and governorships, including those of La Paz and Santa Cruz. The OAS electoral observation mission reported overwhelming citizen participation in the elections, but lamented the last-minute disqualification and substitution of candidates, which occurred after the ballots had been printed. As a result of these changes, voters had incorrect information on election day. Six out of seven Supreme Electoral Tribunal members resigned after the elections. In July 2015, new members of the tribunal were elected with the support of the MAS majority in the Plurinational Legislative Assembly.

Presidential term limits are the subject of controversy. A 2013 Plurinational Constitutional Tribunal ruling allowed Morales to run for a third term in 2014, stating that his first term in office did not count toward the constitutionally mandated two-term limit since it had begun before the current constitution was adopted. In 2015, the Plurinational Legislative Assembly voted to amend the constitution in order to allow presidents to run for three consecutive terms instead of two. In February 2016, a referendum to ratify the decision took place. Official results, released after an unusually slow vote-count process, revealed that 51.3 percent of voters had rejected the amendment, with about 88 percent of eligible voters participating in the poll. The OAS electoral observation mission applauded the high turnout, but noted unequal access to the media and acts of vandalism in Santa Cruz that prompted officials to reschedule voting at 24 polling stations.

B. Political Pluralism and Participation 11 / 16

B1. Do the people have the right to organize in different political parties or other competitive political groupings of their choice, and is the system open to the rise and fall of these competing parties or groupings?

B2. Is there a significant opposition vote and a realistic opportunity for the opposition to increase its support or gain power through elections?

B3. Are the people's political choices free from domination by the military, foreign powers, totalitarian parties, religious hierarchies, economic oligarchies, or any other powerful group?

B4. Do cultural, ethnic, religious, or other minority groups have full political rights and electoral opportunities?

Citizens have the right to organize political parties. Since Morales's election in 2005, the formerly dominant parties have all but collapsed, giving way to a series of new political groupings and short-lived opposition coalitions. The MAS draws support from a diverse range of social movements, unions, and civil society actors.

Opposition politicians have claimed that the Morales administration persecutes them through the judiciary, and have recently claimed that only opposition leaders were prosecuted in connection with a scandal involving irregularities in the country's Indigenous Fund. According to a report by New Democracy, a Bolivian rights organization, there were 75 cases of politically motivated judicial cases in the first six months of 2016.

People are free to make their own political decisions without undue influence from the military, foreign powers, or other influential groups. The constitution recognizes 36 indigenous nationalities, declares Bolivia a plurinational state, and formalizes local political and judicial control within indigenous territories. Although they are well represented in government, the interests of indigenous groups are often overlooked by politicians.

C. Functioning of Government 7 / 12

C1. Do the freely elected head of government and national legislative representatives determine the policies of the government?

C2. Is the government free from pervasive corruption?

C3. Is the government accountable to the electorate between elections, and does it operate with openness and transparency?

Corruption affects a range of government entities and economic sectors, including law-enforcement bodies and extractive industries. Anticorruption legislation enacted in 2010 has been criticized for permitting retroactive enforcement. The government has established an Anti-Corruption Ministry, outlined policies to combat corruption, and opened investigations into official corruption cases. In 2011, legislators voted to prosecute former presidents Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada and Jorge Quiroga for approving hydrocarbon contracts alleged to have contravened national interests. In February 2016, the U.S. government accepted an extradition request for Sanchez de Lozada, who is also facing genocide charges in Bolivia for his role in the killing of dozens of indigenous protesters in 2003. In February, Gabriela Zapata  a former manager of the Chinese company CAMC who at one point had been in a romantic relationship with Morales  was imprisoned on corruption charges linking CAMC with contracts with state institutions.

Bolivia has no law guaranteeing access to public information, but a Transparency and Access to Public Information bill was under consideration at the end of 2016. The bill has drawn criticism from transparency advocates for allowing government agencies to establish exceptions on what information would be publicly available.

Civil Liberties 39 / 60

D. Freedom of Expression and Belief 14 / 16

D1. Are there free and independent media and other forms of cultural expression?

D2. Are religious institutions and communities free to practice their faith and express themselves in public and private?

D3. Is there academic freedom, and is the educational system free of extensive political indoctrination?

D4. Is there open and free private discussion?

Although the constitution guarantees freedom of expression, in practice the media are subject to some limitations. A Ministry of Communications exists, but no implementing regulation for the constitution's "right to communication" has been passed. Most media outlets are privately owned, and ownership in the print sector has become consolidated. Radio is the leading source of information, but online media are growing in importance as a source of news. Many private newspapers and television stations feature opinion pieces that favor the opposition; the opposite holds true in state media. A 2011 telecommunications law allocated 33 percent of all broadcast licenses to state-run media, another 33 percent to commercial broadcasters, and 17 percent each to local communities and indigenous groups.

Journalists and independent media frequently encounter harassment in connection with critical or investigative reporting, including from public officials. In March 2016, Minister of the Presidency Juan Ramon Quintana threatened that media outlets that that disseminated false information would be closed. In June, the Bolivian National Press Association denounced before the United Nations threats against Bolivian journalists by government officials, noting among other incidents a threat by vice president Alvaro Garcia Linera to imprison reporters for purportedly conspiring against Morales.

Freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution. The 2009 constitution ended the Roman Catholic Church's official status and created a secular state. The government does not restrict academic freedom. Private discussion is free from surveillance or other interference by authorities. The government is not known to restrict or monitor the internet.

E. Associational and Organizational Rights 9 / 12

E1. Is there freedom of assembly, demonstration, and open public discussion?

E2. Is there freedom for nongovernmental organizations?

E3. Are there free trade unions and peasant organizations or equivalents, and is there effective collective bargaining? Are there free professional and other private organizations?

Bolivian law provides for the rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of association. However, protests sometimes become violent. In May 2016, several people involved with a sustained protest aimed at increasing government disability stipends were attacked while traveling to La Paz to meet with officials. Police reportedly employed an irritant spray against similar protests in April and again in June. At least two protesters were killed in August amid unclear circumstances as demonstrating miners clashed with police.

In July 2016, the Constitutional Court dismissed a petition arguing that two statues in the country's law on nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) gave the government license to improperly dissolve such groups. In October, a coalition of NGOs filed a petition against the law with the Inter American Commission for Human Rights, though Bolivia's minister of autonomies, Hugo Siles, noted that any decision by the body would not be binding.

Labor and peasant unions are an active force in society and wield significant political influence.

F. Rule of Law 6 / 16

F1. Is there an independent judiciary?

F2. Does the rule of law prevail in civil and criminal matters? Are police under direct civilian control?

F3. Is there protection from political terror, unjustified imprisonment, exile, or torture, whether by groups that support or oppose the system? Is there freedom from war and insurgencies?

F4. Do laws, policies, and practices guarantee equal treatment of various segments of the population?

The judiciary is politicized and overburdened, and the justice system is beset by corruption. Police are poorly paid and receive inadequate training, and corruption within the police force too remains a problem. Police officers who attempted to expose corruption often face repercussions.

Bolivian prisons are overcrowded, and conditions for prisoners are extremely poor. An increase in urban crime rates and a 1988 law that substantially lengthened prison sentences for drug-related crimes have contributed to prison overcrowding, as has the frequent use of pretrial detention. Several pardon programs enacted in recent years, as well as fast-track trial procedures, have decreased the number of people in detention, though some critics contend that fast-track trials push innocent people to plead guilty in exchange for reduced sentences and less time spent in court. A 2016 report by the Ombudsman stated that 69 percent of inmates had not received a final sentence, and that prisons were filled to 302 percent of capacity. Assaults in prisons continue to pose a significant problem.

While the constitution and jurisdictional law recognize indigenous customary law on conflict resolution, reform efforts have not fully resolved questions regarding its jurisdiction and proper application. This lack of clarity has allowed some perpetrators of vigilante crimes, including lynching, to misrepresent their actions as a form of indigenous justice.

In late August 2016, amid a protest of mining sector workers in Panduro, a mob abducted and murdered Rodolfo Illanes, the vice minister of interior, as he was traveling to speak with the demonstrators. Five people were arrested in connection with his killing, including Carlos Mamani, president of the National Federation of Mining Cooperatives.

In general, racism is rife in the country, especially against indigenous groups. The 2010 antiracism law contains measures to combat discrimination and impose criminal penalties for discriminatory acts. Bolivia has laws in place that prohibit discrimination against LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people. However, these laws are rarely enforced, and LGBT people experience widespread societal discrimination. Transgender individuals by law can change their name and gender identity on government forms, but judicial discrimination makes the process very difficult. Additionally, no laws condemn hate crimes against LGBT people. The Bolivian Coalition of LGBT Organizations (COALIBOL) reported that six LGBT people were murdered in 2016. Transgender people often resort to sex work in dangerous conditions due to employment discrimination and groundless rejection of their credentials.

G. Personal Autonomy and Individual Rights 10 / 16

G1. Do individuals enjoy freedom of travel or choice of residence, employment, or institution of higher education?

G2. Do individuals have the right to own property and establish private businesses? Is private business activity unduly influenced by government officials, the security forces, political parties/organizations, or organized crime?

G3. Are there personal social freedoms, including gender equality, choice of marriage partners, and size of family?

G4. Is there equality of opportunity and the absence of economic exploitation?

While the law protects freedom of movement, protesters often disrupt internal travel by blocking highways and city streets. Women enjoy the same formal rights to property ownership as men, but discrimination is pervasive, leading to disparities in property ownership and access to resources.

Two controversial Supreme Decrees in 2015 threaten the right to prior consultation in cases of natural resource extraction, which is established in international legal provisions recognized by Bolivian law. In March 2015, the government enacted Supreme Decree 2298, which establishes a 45-day limit on prior consultations regarding hydrocarbon activities and allows for the subsequent approval of land exploitation, even if the indigenous peoples involved did not participate. Supreme Decree 2366, issued that May, allows for oil and gas extraction in national parks provided that companies contribute 1 percent of their investments to poverty reduction and helping to prevent negative environmental consequences. Opposition leaders and human rights organizations have criticized the decrees, saying authorities failed to adequately consult with indigenous groups before issuing them. The Bolivian Center for Documentation and Information reported in March 2016 that related consultations with 59 communities in Amazonia were not free and informed. Observers also expressed concern after the president of the National Electricity Company in October announced that prior consultation did not apply to hydrocarbon exploitations, such as the El Bala dam project.

The constitution prohibits discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation, but it reserves marriage as a bond between a man and a woman, and makes no provision for same-sex civil unions.

The 2014 general elections were the first in which half of the candidates were women. As a result, 47 percent of senators and 53 percent of deputies are women. Nevertheless, the justice system does not effectively safeguard women's broader legal rights. A 2014 law increased the penalties for rape and abuse, and included the recognition of spousal rape; created a specialized police force for crimes against women; and categorized violence against women as a public health issue. More than half of Bolivian women are believed to experience domestic violence at some point during their lives. A 2012 law is intended to protect women from harassment and political violence; however only 20 out of the 316 cases reported since the law's approval have been resolved, according to an October 2016 editorial published by La Razon. The lack of enforcement and allocation of resources for the implementation of legislation protecting women continue to be a concern.

Scoring Key: X / Y (Z)

X = Score Received

Y = Best Possible Score

Z = Change from Previous Year

Copyright notice:  Freedom House, Inc.  All Rights Reserved
Terrorist attacks 'major' hurdle to peace in Mali, UN mission chief tells Security Council

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Terrorist attacks 'major' hurdle to peace in Mali, UN mission chief tells Security Council, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479b5b4.html [accessed 11 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 progress towards peace in Mali, terrorist attacks remain a major obstacle, the head of the United Nations peacekeeping operation there told the Security Council today.

Mahamat Saleh Annadif, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission, known by its French acronym, MINUSMA, reported significant progress on implementing the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation over the past months, but agreed that terrorists and extremists were gaining ground as existing tensions threatened to derail achievements.

Mali's central region is a continuing source of concern, said Mr. Annadif as he encouraged the Council to focus on the pressing security challenges and to send a strong message that civilian killings must end while considering the renewal of MINUSMA's mandate.

Since Security Council resolution 2295 (2016) gave the Mission a robust mandate, noted the envoy, financial support must continue to ensure its ability to maintain its full functions, including the ability to assist Mali's armed forces.

While scaling up support for the Agreement, MINUSMA would also continue to assist international mediation efforts and strengthen national capacity, he explained, saying that although neighbouring countries had committed recently to deploying uniformed personnel and equipment, the lack of escort and convoy battalions was a major roadblock to continued progress.

Mr. Annadif went on to note that the National Understanding Conference had been held satisfactorily, further indicating that the Charter for Peace, Unity and Reconciliation was being developed. In addition, the interim authorities had been established in the five regions concerned.

The various operational coordination mechanisms and joint patrols are on track, he told the Council, while the process of security sector reform, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration continues, although the pace is slow.

These are, according to Annadif, among many positive developments, in addition to the institutional and political reforms, that are to be credited to the Government.

However, he warned, these positive developments risk being annihilated by the tension that has existed for some time between the Azawad Movement Coordination (CMA) and the Platform, which has turned into a conflict Community.

Unfortunately, these practices are the bedrock of terrorists and other extremists, which reinforce each other, both in their operational mode and in the sophistication of the equipment used, Annadif said. More seriously, they extend their areas of influence and influence.

The Mission therefore aims to strengthen its presence in the central region, he said, within the framework of an integrated and multidimensional approach in partnership with other actors such as the European Union. The forthcoming deployment of the rapid reaction force is part of this arrangement.
Ukraine: 750,000 children at risk of losing access to safe drinking water, warns UN

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, Ukraine: 750,000 children at risk of losing access to safe drinking water, warns UN, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479c0b4.html [accessed 11 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.

With the recent escalation of hostilities damaging vital water infrastructure in eastern Ukraine, at least 750,000 children are at imminent risk of being cut off from safe drinking water, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned today.

Nearly three million people in eastern Ukraine rely on water infrastructure that is now in the line of fire, said Afshan Khan, UNICEF's Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, noting that more families are expected to be cut off from safe drinking water, putting children at severe risk of disease and other dangers.

About 400,000 people, including 104,000 children, had their drinking water cut off for four days this week after two filtration stations for the South Donbass Water pipeline were destroyed by shelling. Urgent repairs were completed yesterday evening.

In Donetsk, power lines providing electricity to the city's water filtration station were damaged earlier this month, threatening more than 1 million people's access to safe water.

Children cut off from clean drinking water can quickly contract water-borne diseases such as diarrhea. Girls and boys having to fetch water from alternative sources, or who are forced to leave their homes due to disruptions to safe water supplies, face dangers from ongoing fighting and other forms of abuse.

All sides of the conflict must allow urgent repairs when water sources are destroyed and immediately stop the indiscriminate shelling of vital civilian infrastructure, said Ms. Khan.

UNICEF has provided access to safe drinking water to more than 1.5 million people in Government and non-Government-controlled areas of eastern Ukraine.

In 2017, UNICEF is appealing for $31.3 million to provide health and nutrition support, education, clean water, hygiene and sanitation as well as protection for children and families affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine. The appeal has received about $9.9 million, still $21.4 million short of the target.
UNICEF-backed projects for millions of children in Syria on verge of being 'cut off'

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, UNICEF-backed projects for millions of children in Syria on verge of being 'cut off', 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479c684.html [accessed 11 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.

Programmes supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) to assist more than nine million children in Syria and neighbouring countries are on the verge of being cut off due to a critical funding shortage.

This is the most severe funding gap UNICEF has had since we started responding to the Syria crisis, one of the largest humanitarian operations in the history of the organisation, said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, in a press release.

Humanitarian needs continue to grow by the day inside Syria and in neighbouring countries, while pressure on generous host communities is seriously jeopardizing their ability to make ends meet, he added.

UNICEF appealed for $1.4 billion for its emergency operations in 2017 inside Syria and in neighbouring Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt. To date, UNICEF has received less than 25 per cent of its funding requirements.

Pressure on generous host communities is seriously jeopardizing their ability to make ends meet

In its seventh year and with no end in sight, the war in Syria has become the largest humanitarian and displacement crisis in the world since World War II. Inside Syria, nearly 6 million children are in need of assistance while more than 2.5 million live as refugees across Syria's borders. Neighbouring countries, already supporting large numbers of vulnerable people, have received 80 per cent of all refugees from Syria.

Without an injection of new funds, some critical and lifesaving activities supported by UNICEF are at a serious risk being cut off.

These include safe water and sanitation services for 1.2 million children living in camps, informal settlements and host communities; access to healthcare and essential nutrition treatments for almost 5.4 million children; cash assistance to families that helps keep nearly half a million children in school; and the distribution of clothes and blankets in winter months.

UNICEF calls for a number of immediate actions to put an end to the war in Syria, prioritize the protection of civilians and the rights of children, improve the delivery of services and infrastructure such as healthcare, education and water in refugee host countries; and provide much-needed financial support to organisations like UNICEF to continue lifesaving assistance.
DR Congo: UN peacekeeping chief expresses solidarity with people of troubled Kasai region

Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as UN News Service, DR Congo: UN peacekeeping chief expresses solidarity with people of troubled Kasai region, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/59479cbc4.html [accessed 11 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.

As part of his five-day visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the top United Nations peacekeeping official visited the vast country's troubled Kasai region and expressed "deep concern" about the ongoing violence there.

According to a note issued in New York by a UN Spokesman, the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, expressed deep concern about persistent violence and serious human rights abuses in the Kasai.

He also stressed the importance of prosecuting all perpetrators of crimes and promised the full support of the United Nations so that the perpetrators of the murder of Michael Sharp and Zaida Catalan could be brought to justice.

On Wednesday, he travelled to Kananga, the capital of Kasai province, to express the UN's solidarity with the people of the region and discuss ongoing efforts to strengthen the local presence of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission, known as MONUSCO.

Today, he met with President Joseph Kabila, in the capital, Kinshasa. Throughout his visit, Mr. Lacroix reaffirmed the UN's commitment to support the full implementation of the 31 December Agreement and the efforts of MONUSCO to help create a peaceful environment conducive to the holding of free, fair and inclusive elections by the end of the year.

In Goma, Mr. Lacroix exchanged views with the Governor of North Kivu, Julien Paluku, on how the UN Mission can best help address security challenges and inter-communal tensions in the province.
Gulf / Qatar dispute: Human dignity trampled and families facing uncertainty as sinister deadline passes

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 19 June 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Gulf / Qatar dispute: Human dignity trampled and families facing uncertainty as sinister deadline passes, 19 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947b7304.html [accessed 11 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.

Thousands of people in the Gulf face the prospect of their lives being further disrupted and their families torn apart as new arbitrary measures announced by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the context of their dispute with Qatar are due to come into force from today, said Amnesty International.

The three Gulf states had given their citizens the deadline of 19 June to leave Qatar and return to their respective countries or face fines and other unspecified consequences. They had given Qatari nationals the same deadline to leave Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the UAE and have refused entry to Qatari nationals since 5 June.

"The situation that people across the Gulf have been placed in shows utter contempt for human dignity. This arbitrary deadline has caused widespread uncertainty and dread amongst thousands of people who fear they will be separated from their loved ones," said James Lynch, Deputy Director of Amnesty International's Global Issues Programme.

"With these measures, the governments of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain have needlessly put mixed-nationality families at the heart of a political crisis."

"They should immediately cancel this sinister arbitrary deadline, otherwise thousands of families risk being torn apart, with others losing their jobs or the opportunity to continue their education. People undergoing medical treatment are being made to choose between continuing their treatment or complying with the overly broad and harsh measures announced by Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain."

The dispute has created growing concern about what will happen if residents choose to remain with their families across Gulf states. Some have told Amnesty International they are preparing to travel to countries outside the dispute to be reunited with their families.

The governments of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and UAE have made statements acknowledging the impact of their measures on mixed-nationality families and announced the establishment of emergency hot lines for affected individuals. Such a measure is clearly insufficient to address the human rights impact of the arbitrary, blanket measures imposed on 5 June.

Additionally, Amnesty International has spoken to a number of people who tried to call these hot lines. Their experiences raise serious questions about whether these hot lines are providing effective advice or information. Several people said they had tried in vain for hours or days to get through to the hot lines. Those who got through said officials asked them for minimal details about their cases and told them they would receive a call back, but there had been no follow-up. Amnesty International has rung the hot lines and asked how cases registered were being dealt with, but officials were not able to provide any information.

Some affected families have told Amnesty International that they are too scared to call hot lines and register their presence, or their family's presence, in a "rival" country for fear of reprisal.

Statements by the authorities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain that people will be punished for expressing sympathy towards Qatar or criticizing government actions have contributed to the climate of fear spreading across the region.

On 13 June a Bahraini lawyer was arrested after he filed a lawsuit against his government arguing that the measures taken against Qatar are unconstitutional and violate the rights of Bahraini citizens, then posted a copy of this complaint on his Facebook page.

A Qatari man unable to return to his farmland in Saudi Arabia has told Amnesty International that his friends in Saudi Arabia were too scared to look after his land or remain in contact with him for fear of being prosecuted by the Saudi Arabian government for sympathizing with him.

"It is unthinkable that states can so blatantly infringe on the right to freedom of expression. Citizens have the right to express views and concerns about their governments, as well as feelings of sympathy towards others," said James Lynch.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Algeria: Wave of arrests and prosecutions of hundreds of Ahmadis

Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 19 June 2017 Cite as Amnesty International, Algeria: Wave of arrests and prosecutions of hundreds of Ahmadis, 19 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947b7854.html [accessed 11 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.

Algeria must halt its clampdown against members of the minority Ahmadiyya religious movement, said Amnesty International today, ahead of the appeal hearing on 21 June of six Ahmadis sentenced to up to four years in prison for charges relating to the exercise of their religion.

At least 280 Ahmadi men and women have faced investigation or prosecution over the past year, since a wave of arrests began after failed attempts to register an Ahmadi association and inaugurate a new mosque in 2016.

"The clampdown against Ahmadis over the past year is alarming. This wave of arrests and prosecutions of Ahmadis is a clear indication that the authorities are stepping up restrictions on religious freedom in the country," said Heba Morayef, North Africa Research Director for Amnesty International.

"Algerian authorities should ensure that the cases against Ahmadis which are solely related to the peaceful practice of their religion are dropped, and immediately release those detained."

There are an estimated 2,000 Ahmadis in Algeria. Ahmadis consider themselves to be Muslim, however, Algerian officials have made public statements calling them heretics and a threat to Algeria.

In March 2016, Algerian authorities refused an attempt by Ahmadis to register as an association under Algerian law. On 2 June 2016 the police raided a newly-built Ahmadi mosque in Larbaa, in the province of Blida, on the morning of its planned inauguration, and shut it down.

Since then, Amnesty International has learned from local sources that Algerian authorities have initiated judicial proceedings against more than 280 Ahmadis. The charges they face include membership in an unauthorized association, collecting donations without a licence, practising worship in unauthorized places, disseminating foreign propaganda harmful to national interest and "denigrating" the "dogma" and precepts of Islam.

According to members of the Ahmadi community and three lawyers interviewed by Amnesty International, as well as legal documents reviewed by the organization, over a third of those facing criminal proceedings have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms of up to four years or fines of up to 300,000 Algerian dinars (about 2,750 US dollars). Most are at liberty pending the outcome of their proceedings, and four are currently imprisoned.

On 21 June, six Ahmadis will appear before the Court of Appeals in Batna. They were convicted in first instance of administrating an unregistered association, collecting donations without a licence, and distributing foreign literature threatening national interest. They were sentenced to prison terms of between two and four years and fines of 300,000 Algerian dinars (about 2,750 US dollars) on 27 March. These have been the harshest sentences so far handed to Ahmadis for the peaceful exercise of their religion.

In May, the president of the Ahmadiyya community in Algeria was released after three months in pre-trial detention. He had been convicted on similar charges and received a one-year suspended prison sentence and a fine. Ten other defendants in the same case also received suspended prison terms ranging from three to six months in prison, and fines.

Over the past year Algerian public officials and press have made hateful or discriminatory comments about Ahmadis. In June 2016, The Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Mohamed Aissa, described Ahmadi presence in Algeria as part of a "prepared sectarian invasion". In February 2017, he stated that Ahmadis are "not Muslim." In April 2017, Ahmed Ouyahia, President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's chief of cabinet called on Algerians to "preserve the country from the Shia and Ahmadiyya sects".

In a statement on 25 April the Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments appeared to shift his tone emphasizing that the state "does not intend to combat members of the Ahmadiya sect" and is only enforcing laws on associations and the collection of donations.

However, Algeria has an obligation under Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to ensure the right to freedom of religion. Under international human rights law and standards, this includes the right to manifest that belief in collective worship, to build places of worship, and to collect voluntary financial contributions.

Algeria's constitution does not fully guarantee freedom of religion, leaving the regulation of practice and places of worship to restrictive national legislation. National law has specific rules of worship for those considered to be non-Muslims, and collective religious worship outside the scope of what is regulated by the state is a criminal offence. Breaches such regulations, including provisions imposing the use of government-approved public places of worship, and advance notification for religious ceremonies, are punished with one to three years' imprisonment, and fines between 100,000 and 300,000 Algerian dinars (about 900 and 2,700 US dollars).

"The right to worship collectively is a fundamental aspect of freedom of religion, it is as important as individual freedom of conscience. As long as every religious group, every place of worship is required to get an official seal of approval, there won't be freedom of religion in Algeria," Heba Morayef said.

Background:

The right to freedom of thought conscience and religion includes the right to manifest that belief, individually or in community with others, to manifest that belief in worship, observance, practice and teaching. As detailed in Article 6 of the UN Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, this includes soliciting and receiving voluntary financial or other contributions. Any regulation of these activities should be non-discriminatory and should not prevent people from exercising their right to freedom of religion.

Ahmadis are part of the Ahmadiyya movement, a religion founded in India in the late 19th century. Ahmadis have suffered discrimination and other human rights violations in various countries including Pakistan, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Gambia and Algeria.

Copyright notice:  Copyright Amnesty International
Baltic Region Holds Multiple NATO Exercises in Anticipation of Russia's Massive Zapad 2017 Drills

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Olevs Nikers Publication Date 14 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 79 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Baltic Region Holds Multiple NATO Exercises in Anticipation of Russia's Massive Zapad 2017 Drills, 14 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 79, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947b8ec4.html [accessed 11 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

Twice in the past several weeks, Russian intrusions put the Baltics on high alert. On June 1, several Russian soldiers, traveling from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad without transit permits, were stopped in Lithuania (Apollo.lv, June 2). A week later, two Goryn-class tugboats-the MB-119 and MB-35-of the Russian Navy were spotted inside Latvia's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), nine nautical miles from its territorial waters (La.lv, June 6). Yet, both of these incidents pale in comparison to the expected scope of the upcoming Zapad ("West") 2017 Russian military exercise, which will pose an important potential challenge to stability and security in the wider Baltic region this September.

According to Belarusian Defense Minister Andrej Ravkov, the joint Russian-Belarusian "Zapad" exercise, which is conducted every four years, will be held across his country's territory on September 14-20. Officially, 13,000 soldiers will take part in these military drills (Tvnet.lv, June 9). Yet, Lithuanian intelligence agencies suggest that the actual number of participants in the training will far exceed the official figures. Moreover, despite its purported defensive character, Lithuanian special services argue, the Zapad 2017 scenario can be expected to involve armed conflict with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Part of the training will be held along the Lithuanian border, where large numbers of Russian soldiers and military equipment will be amassed. Most importantly, the Lithuanian intelligence agencies warn that, under the guise of Zapad 2017, Moscow might attempt to carry out possible provocations against its western neighbors. As reported by the Lithuanian State Security Department and the Ministry of Defense, the Department's annual threat assessment, released this past April, notes that Russia has boosted its military presence in the western parts of the country and in Kaliningrad region: Russia is now able to organize and launch an open attack on the Baltic countries within 24-48 hours (Delfi.lv, June 9).

Estonia, like the other two Baltic States, will closely monitor this large-scale military exercise. "Of course, since Zapad is taking place so close to Estonia, we must monitor it especially closely. We will do it and our allies will do it as well," said Defense Minister Juri Luik, several days prior to being named to that position (Baltic Times, June 7).

The summer and fall in the wider Baltic region has routinely tended to be busy when it comes to military exercise schedules. During the first week of June, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Denmark took part in Saber Knight 2017, training their brigade-level headquarters. Over 800 defense personnel from these four countries took part, along with soldiers from the United States and Slovakia (Bns.lv, June 5).

Additionally, NATO is undertaking two major Baltic exercises this month-Saber Strike and BALTOPS, which have been held annually since 2010 and 1972, respectively. Due to the changed security situation in Europe, caused in large part by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and forced annexation of Crimea, these exercises for the past several years have emphasized the Alliance's collective defense capabilities.

Saber Strike is a combined land and air force exercise, involving elements of Host Nation Support and maritime joint operations. Whereas, BALTOPS, for many decades has been one of the largest maritime exercises held under the guidance of United States. These latter Baltic Sea drills are specifically designed to strengthen interoperability between NATO and its regional partners and for its participants to practice combined tactical maneuvers in various training scenarios. This year (June 1-16), BALTOPS will bring together 4,000 troops, 50 ships and submarines, and more than 50 aircraft from 14 Allied and partner countries-the US, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, France, Latvia, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Germany, as well as Finland and Sweden. On June 6, US Marines arriving on the USS Arlington practiced landing on the Latvian shore, at the town of Ventspils (Sargs.lv, June 5).

Meanwhile, on June 3-15, the Alliance is holding the Saber Strike exercise on the territory of Latvia. More than 2,000 soldiers from Latvia, Lithuania, Italy, Norway, the UK, Poland, Slovakia and the US are taking part. The exercise is intended to enhance cooperation between NATO member states, boost their preparedness and combat capabilities, as well as improve Allies' abilities to respond quickly and to rapidly move their forces throughout the region. According to commander Nil Loidolt, who is overseeing Saber Strike 2017, special emphasis this year will be put on practicing integrated land, sea and air operations. At the same time, the exercise will help strengthen cooperation with NATO's multinational battle groups, which have already been deployed to each of the Baltic countries and Poland as part of the Alliance's greater deterrence strategy, adopted at the 2016 Warsaw Summit (Sargs.lv, June 2).

In the second half of the month (June 12-23), Lithuania and Poland have begun the tactical-level Gelezinis Vilkas (Iron Wolf) exercise, to practice defending the so-called Suwalki Gap. As the only existing land connection between Poland and Lithuania, the narrow (roughly 100-kilometer-long) Suwalki Gap could serve as an important transit corridor for Allied forces to deliver military aid to the Baltic States in a crisis situation. "This operation will take place for the first time. One of our goals is to develop the skills needed for the Allies [to ensure they can gain overland] access [to] the Baltics," said the Land Forces commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, Brigadier General Valdemars Rupsis. Overall, more than 5,300 soldiers from ten NATO countries are participating in Gelezinis Vilkas 2017-Belgium, the UK, the US, Croatia, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, Portugal, and of course Poland and Lithuania (La.lv, June 7).

During a meeting of the three Baltic prime ministers, on June 9, the heads of government declared that their countries are ready for the upcoming Zapad 2017 Russian-Belarusian military exercises. And thanks to the increased presence of NATO forces currently practicing in the region, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia are feeling better protected than ever before. "Strength lies in unity," said Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas (Diena.lv, June 9).

This summer, NATO members are continually convening in the Baltic region in order to practice all possible conventional deterrence measures. In doing so, the Alliance is "preemptively" demonstrating collective strength ahead of its large eastern neighbor's show of force this coming September.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Putin Addresses Country Days After Mass Arrests of Nonviolent Protesters in Moscow and St. Petersburg

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel Felgenhauer Publication Date 15 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Putin Addresses Country Days After Mass Arrests of Nonviolent Protesters in Moscow and St. Petersburg, 15 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947b9b44.html [accessed 11 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

President Vladimir Putin (64) has not yet officially announced whether he will run for a fourth term as head of state on March 18, 2018. During the traditional annual nationwide live multi-hour televised phone-in, held this year on June 15, Putin did not announce his candidacy. And yet, it was clear he had already started campaigning-reassuring his subjects, answering pre-rehearsed questions and promising Russians a better future (Kremlin.ru, June 15). Putin's custom-built system of power seems certain to ensure a landslide victory at the polls, granting him six more years in the Kremlin and continuing his rule over Russia until 2024-almost a quarter of a century, all in all. The actual campaign announcement is irrelevant: The Kremlin propaganda machine and presidential administration are already in election mode. Duma speaker and an important member of Putin's inner circle, Vyacheslav Volodin, announced this week, "For any Russian that wants a peaceful sky overhead and a good future, the only candidate is Putin-only he can do the job. Our enemies want to dismantle and enslave Russia and know that only Putin may stop them." As the election date approaches, continued Volodin, "provocations by unfriendly foreign powers will multiply-they will try to thwart Russia's true support of Putin" (Life.ru, June 13).

The state propaganda machine has been actively promoting the The Putin Interviews, a film by director Oliver Stone, currently being screened on Showtime. State-controlled Russian TV has been heaping praise on Stone, while attacking the "mainstream US liberal press" for being anti-Russian and anti-Putin (Vesti, June 13). The state news agency RIA Novosti quoted Stone, who reportedly accused the "US military-industrial complex" of undermining already strained bilateral relations to serve its selfish interests and increase defense spending (RIA Novosti, June 13).

In the interviews, Putin once again accused the United States of actively supporting Islamist terrorists in hopes they will attack Russia; he also insisted the West fooled Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, in 1990, when he agreed to allow the peaceful reunification of Germany in exchange for alleged verbal assurances that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) would not expand eastward, instead of securing some written memorandum. Gorbachev publicly pushed back: It was impossible to secure any legal document in 1990 about further NATO expansion since the Warsaw Pact was disbanded only in July 1991, only then freeing its former members to join the North Atlantic Alliance. Gorbachev recalled the achievements made following the end of the Cold War: nuclear limitation and disarmament treaties as well as the Conventional Forces in Europe (CFE) treaty of 1990, which Putin abandoned in December 2007. Gorbachev insisted NATO enlargement happened when he was long gone from the Kremlin, and most new members joined NATO under Putin's watch, after 2000 (Interfax, June 13).

It seems the only piece of news in the Stone interviews that made a real splash in the Russian media was Putin admitting that he has grandchildren. In 2013, Putin announced he was separating from his wife since 1983, Lyudmila (59). Rumors then circulated in Moscow about Putin having an affair or affairs with other women, but no one knows anything concrete and the Kremlin has ferociously discouraged the Russian media from investigating anything about Putin's personal life. The Russian media was annoyed Stone was allowed to ask about Putin's children, while Russian journalists are forbidden from doing so (Moskovsky Komsomolets, June 14). During the June 15 phone-in, Putin announced he "recently had a second grandchild," but refused to provide any other detail about the age or gender of his grandchildren, which of his two daughters is the mother, or whether both now have a child. Putin insisted he will keep everything top secret "or else they [his grandchildren] could be easily identified" (Moskva-putinu.ru, June 15).

It would seem Putin-the undisputed Russian autocrat-is scared his close-of-kin may be threatened; or perhaps his grip on power is not as solid as it seems. Monday, June 12, was an official holiday in Russia, and opposition leader Alexei Navalny called on his supporters in Moscow and in other Russian regions to publicly protest the country's rampant high-level corruption. On March 2, Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (Fond Borby s Korruptsyey-FBK) released an investigative video that went viral in Russia, alleging the prime minister and former president from 2008 to 2012, Dmitry Medvedev, secretly amassed a multi-billion-dollar real estate empire of lucrative country residencies and spacious mansions, some of which were allegedly provided as gifts by Russian billionaire oligarchs. The authorities dismissed the FBK allegations and, on March 26, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in the center of Moscow and 80 other Russian cities to protest top government corruption. Hundreds of protesters were arrested and fined, while Navalny served a 15-day prison sentence (see EDM, March 30).

Navalny called his supporters to take to the streets on June 12, as a follow-up to the March 26 protest, accusing the Kremlin of inaction and complicity in top-level corruption. The Moscow authorities agreed to allow the protesters to gather downtown in a designated district. But on the evening of June 11, Navalny suddenly directed his supporters to come to Tverskaya Street, close to the Kremlin, which was closed to traffic and turned into a pedestrian zone for the public holiday. Navalny encouraged his supporters to nonviolently "walk around with Russian national flags." Thousands arrived. No riot and no disturbance of order occurred, but the riot police-since last year reorganized into the National Guard-attacked the public in Moscow and other cities, using batons and fists, arresting and kicking pedestrians seemingly indiscriminately, according to witnesses. Some journalists were also assaulted and arrested (Bfm.ru, June 13). Hundreds were detained in Moscow and St. Petersburg or fined; many were handed prison sentences of up to 15 days. Navalny was arrested in his Moscow apartment block and promptly given a 30-day sentence (Vedomosti, June 14).

Young Russians, ready to enter the job market, are especially hard-hit by the present Russian economic slump-a college education does not guarantee lucrative employment. Many Russian youth seem fed up with the corruption, stagnation and the endless lies of the Putin regime. This week, much like on March 26, the most active members of the protest crowds appeared to be teenagers-high school and college students, who have lived all or most of their life under Putin's rule. The sudden surge of mass young political activism led by Navalny is clearly a surprise for the Kremlin. The authorities' kneejerk reaction to terrorize and repress the youngsters may backfire and actually boost future protests (Kommersant, June 13).

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Yandex: Tool of Russian Disinformation and Cyber Operations in Ukraine

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Sergey Sukhankin Publication Date 15 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Yandex: Tool of Russian Disinformation and Cyber Operations in Ukraine, 15 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947ba634.html [accessed 11 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

The recent decision by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to ban popular Russian social networks VKontakte (VK) and Odnoklassniki, on May 15 (see EDM, June 7), provoked serious debate both inside Ukraine and abroad. Now that the initial anxiety over that ban has somewhat subsided, it is worth analyzing other, less commented-on but no less important, elements of the decree.

Aside from social networks, Poroshenko's May 15 decree bans Russian Internet search engine giant Yandex, some information technology (IT) programs, as well as anti-virus software (including Kaspersky and Doctor Web) that have allegedly been undermining Ukrainian information and cyber security. According to Colonel Oleksandr Tkachuk, from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), approximately 300 of the largest Ukrainian companies and corporations use Russian IT programs "directly controlled by the Russian Federal Security Service [FSB]" (Espreso.tv, April 27). Moreover, the Ukrainian side has suffered huge financial losses as a direct result of using Russian products. In his interview, the head of the information security division of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, Valentin Petrov, noted that Ukraine annually spends approximately one billion hryvnas (roughly $39 million) on Russian IT and software products (Ukrinform.ua, May 17).

In terms of the challenges to Ukrainian information and cyber security from Russian IT programs and software, Yandex may pose the greatest threat. Yandex has become the fourth largest online search tool in the world and enjoys unparalleled popularity in the post-Soviet space, with populations in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Kazakhstan being the main users. Multiple reports have alleged that the Russian special and intelligence services routinely use Yandex to "manipulate the collective and individual conscious of Ukrainian citizens" (Sprotyv.info, May 29). Reportedly, this is accomplished by implementing search tools and mechanisms that aim to prioritize anti-Ukrainian and anti-Western online content to Yandex's Ukrainian-based users. Also, it has been argued that private Yandex e-mail accounts and other data passing through Yandex-offered web services are monitored and actively used by the FSB and Russian hackers to design effective cyber attacks against "critical infrastructure, public institutions and individuals."

Indeed, the Kremlin has been investing heavily in putting the domestic Internet sphere (Runet) under direct government control and is attempting to subjugate the Russian IT and software industry to its own interests. The infamous "Shaltay Boltay affair" that made public a large tranche of e-mails allegedly belonging to Vladislav Surkov-the architect of the "Russian Spring"-explicitly showed the true level of dependence of the entire Russian IT industry on the FSB (see EDM, February 9). Also, recent remarks by President Vladimir Putin, comparing Russian hackers to artists and true patriots (RT, June 1), reveals the apparent attitude of the authorities in Moscow toward cyber crimes committed in the name of the Russian state.

In April, an alliance of Ukrainian independent journalists and investigators outlined the main reasons why Russian IT and software products (especially Yandex) are a dangerous weapon in the hands of Moscow. These can be summarized in three key points (Informnapalm.org, April 27):

Yandex is fully controlled by the Kremlin. Since 2009, when the corporation was practically monopolized by the state through a deal carried out by Sberbank (a state-owned Russian banking and financial services company), the Russian state wields powerful financial leverage through which it can control internal money flows inside the Russian Federation. The key role here is played by Yandex Money, Russia's largest electronic payment service operating on the Runet. It is worth remembering that on multiple occasions (the most well-known ones in 2011 and 2017) Moscow has used its control over Yandex Money to undercut the Russian opposition by "freezing the purses" of its leaders. Yandex is determined to conquer the Ukrainian market irrespectively of costs and expenditures. Notably, Yandex has been able to develop a broad range of "supplementary apps" to its popular search engine. Aside from Yandex Money and Yandex Mail, the company also offers Yandex Direct, Yandex Browser, Yandex Maps, Yandex News, Yandex Video and several others. According to research into user statistics, the outbreak of war in southeastern Ukraine (Donbas) and the illegal annexation of Crimea apparently has had very little effect on the number of users of Yandex among Ukrainians. Meanwhile, Russian expenditures on Yandex for Ukraine is counted in the tens of millions of US dollars (Vaua.org, April 5). Yandex is a far greater threat to Ukraine than the banned Russian social networks. Analysis by the Ukrainian experts suggests that such apps as Yandex Maps, Yandex Mail as well as Yandex Navigator are the main tools Russia uses for the purpose of cyber intelligence and espionage. Given the experience of military clashes in the Donbas region during 2014-2015 and the initial effectiveness of the Russia-backed separatists to take control of Ukrainian territory, this allegation may, indeed, ring true. Incidentally, concerns that Russia might use some Yandex apps for military purposes have been expressed by the Ukrainian side on numerous occasions (Ukrinform.ru, May 17).

In addition to Yandex and other IT and software products, Kyiv announced that 1C Company, the leading Russian business software producer, is accused of "cyber espionage and cyber attacks" as well as connections to the Russia-backed separatist forces in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. As such, 1C Company will also be banned in Ukraine (Sprotyv.info, May 17).

In the end, two main conclusions emerge: First, Ukrainian authorities are increasingly cognizant of both apparent and less visible threats posed by Ukraine's heavy and unconditional dependence on Russian software and IT products. However, to achieve a long-lasting effect, Kyiv will need to act much more decisively while confronting the Russian side in cyberspace. For this purpose, the creation of a single organ with a broad scope of powers and responsibilities (something akin to the Russian Roskomnadzor) might be considered. Second, every dependency is reversible. The examples of the growing popularity of Facebook in Ukraine (Watcher.com.ua, May 30) and the country's revitalizing domestic military-industrial complex (see EDM, May 2) represent two distinct trends, both galvanized by Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine. The trend toward extricating Ukraine from Russia's socio-economic grasp is thus becoming more definitive with each passing year.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Words Matter: Belarus and Its Western Neighbors

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Grigory Ioffe Publication Date 15 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Words Matter: Belarus and Its Western Neighbors, 15 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 80, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947badb4.html [accessed 11 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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"Not merely tanks and weapons can kill, words can too," wrote archbishop Tadeusz Kondrusiewicz, the leader of Belarusian Catholics, in his resentful letter to Svetlana Alexievich, the 2015 Nobel Prize laureate in literature. "The war that Russia started in Donbas is on Russia's conscience," Alexievich said in her interview to the Russian liberal TV channel Dozhd (Rain). "The same war can be initiated in Belarus. Just deliver tanks and weapons to the country and Catholics will kill the Orthodox and whomever" (Tut.by, June 10). Following an outcry in the media (Naviny.by, RIA Novosti, June 10) and an uproar on social networks, some well-meaning champions of Alexievich, like the founder of the most popular private Internet news portal Tut.by, Yury Zisser, began to reason with her accusers. In Zisser's opinion, Alexievich made an awkward statement by suggesting that Belarus could so easily descend into sectarian conflict, which is at loggerheads with the main thrust of her literary work. However, Zisser argues, the uproar that followed is largely indicative of a passionate desire for self-assertion on the part of those whose contribution to posterity is modest, to say the least (Facebook.com/yzisser, June 11). While things may or may not be this innocuous, Alexievich's pronouncement did not appear entirely out of the blue. In 2006, she clearly expressed her view that Alyaksandr Milinkevich, that year's opposition front-runner in the presidential race, would not be popular in Belarus because his manners come across as "too Polish" (Svaboda.org, January 31, 2006). While "Polish" and "Catholic" are no synonyms, they have a long history of being perceived as such in Belarus.

President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaite made yet another awkward pronouncement, this one regarding Belarus at large. On the eve of her visit to Estonia, she stated that "Estonia is very important to us, just as Latvia and Poland, for they all make up the eastern frontier of NATO [the North Atlantic Treaty Organization], so challenges and threats are common [for all of us]. Among those are the presence of Russia and Belarus on our eastern borders [] and the utilization of Belarus for various experiments and aggressive games directed against the West" (Tut.by, June 6). Grybauskaite's remarks referred specifically to the upcoming Zapad ("West") 2017 Russian-Belarusian military exercises, which other regional countries have also expressed unease about. But the idea that the objective fact of geography-i.e., the presence of Belarus as Lithuania's immediate neighbor-is a challenge and a threat was not expressed in any other government's pronouncement. On the contrary, all of Belarus's other neighbors within NATO are in the midst of a honeymoon of sorts with Minsk. This impression is evident from the May 30 interview with Konrad Pawlik, Poland's ambassador to Belarus. While speaking to Tut.by, he acknowledged that the political situation in Belarus has calmed down. Ambassador Pawlik further asserted that if there exist some red lines for Belarus not to cross, those issues should be discussed behind closed doors and not, by any means, openly. He reminded that when NATO's Anaconda war game took place, in Poland, in 2016, Belarusian and Russian observers had a chance to observe them, and he expects the same transparency from the upcoming Belarusian-Russian exercises. He denied any concerns on the part of the Polish government or society regarding those exercises and declared, in ostensible contrast to Alexievich, that "no complicated historical issues" divide Poles and Belarusians (Tut.by, May 30).

Considering the common threats faced by Poland and Lithuania, the tenor of Lithuanian pronouncements on Belarus can hardly be more different from the Polish. In part, this is due to Vilnius's long-standing opposition to the construction of the Belarusian Nuclear Power Station (BNS) close to the Lithuanian border. On June 6, the Lithuanian ambassador in Minsk was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The Belarusian MFA demanded an explanation for the wording of Grybauskaite's insulting statement. Minsk underscored that one cannot choose one's neighbors and that Grybauskaite's statement does not serve regional security; rather, its intention is to boost Lithuania's recognition among its NATO partners (Mfa.gov.by, June 6). Two days later, the foreign ministry spokesperson in Minsk stated that Vilnius had actually adopted a law that declares the Belarusian nuclear plant a threat to Lithuanian national security. But after all the foreign ambassadors to Vilnius and to Minsk were invited, several weeks in advance, to visit the BNS site on May 26, the Lithuanian MFA sent an invitation to Vilnius-accredited ambassadors for the ministry's own event scheduled for the same day. In the meantime, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently issued a report attesting to a high level of security at the BNS (Tut.by, June 8).

Why is it that Lithuania's attitude toward Belarus is so demonstrably different from that of Poland, Latvia or Ukraine? This is the question posed by Artyom Shraibman, a rising star within independent Belarusian journalism. His response is twofold: First, he begrudgingly agrees with the official line coming out of Minsk, arguing that Vilnius's desire to attract the attention of more influential NATO members appears too obvious to ignore. Shraibman admits, "Two times two is four, no matter who confirms that." Second, he asserts that Vilnius feels deeply offended by its loneliness in regard to the BNS and its own inability to create a united European opposition to it. Thus, a sense of being abandoned by the West on this issue fuels emotions in Lithuania that are difficult to contain (Tut.by, June 7). And on a separate note, apparently Lithuanian frustrations are exacerbated even more by the unprecedented level of outmigration from this Baltic State: 900,000 people, or almost a quarter of the population, have left Lithuania after it achieved independence (BNS, April 4). Whereas, Poland and Ukraine also see Russia's behavior as an existential threat, and that is precisely why they favor and encourage any indication of Belarus's independent policy and maintain the best possible relations with this Eastern European country.

Ongoing frustrations and tenacious regional grievances are perpetual nuisances in the overall European tug of war between the major global centers of power. And yet, the government in Minsk appears to have a clearer understanding of this truth than some of Belarus's western neighbors-or even some Nobel Prize laureates.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Yemen: A Dangerous Regional Arms Bazaar

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Michael Horton Publication Date 16 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Yemen: A Dangerous Regional Arms Bazaar, 16 June 2017, Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947bb7c4.html [accessed 11 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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Yemen is the second most heavily armed country in the world after the United States. Before the current civil war began, there were an estimated 54 guns for every 100 residents. [1] Now, the number of small and medium arms in the country is far higher. Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who are the primary external participants in the war, have flooded Yemen with weapons of all types. These weapons, which range from assault rifles to anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), are being provided to a range of disparate militias so that, in theory, they can fight the Houthis who control northwest Yemen. In reality, there are almost no safeguards in place to monitor the end-use of these weapons. [2] Consequently, many of them, including sophisticated medium arms like ATGMs, are sold on to whichever organization or individual will pay the highest price. [3]

Before the start of the conflict, Yemen was already a regional arms bazaar, but the country's well-established smuggling networks have been reinvigorated by the influx of weapons. These networks have contacts throughout the region and move significant quantities of arms to Somalia and further afield, but it is not only Yemen's arms dealers who are profiting from the inflow of weapons. Groups like al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Somalia-based al-Shabaab are also benefiting. In the case of AQAP, the group has never been better armed or better funded. While al-Shabaab has long suffered from a dearth of weapons and materiel, this may not be the case for much longer. What is certain is that the consequences of indiscriminate weapons transfers to Yemen will have a profound effect not only on Yemen but also on the region as a whole in the months and years to come.

From Submachine Guns to Gently Used Tanks

Yemen's arms markets are a paradise for organizations that want to stock up on anything from the latest high-end Heckler and Koch submachine guns to secondhand but barely used tanks. Even when Yemen had a functioning government, it was unable, and largely unwilling, to impede the illicit trade in weapons.

Yemen's largest arms market is in the village of Jihana, a mere 40-minute drive from the Yemeni capital of Sanaa. There - and at other markets - buyers can find a dizzying array of small and medium arms. Heavy weapons - such as tanks, artillery pieces and armored vehicles - are also easily procured.

Most civil wars create a shortage of weapons and materiel, but Yemen's conflict has resulted in a glut of arms. Prices for less desirable assault rifles, like the Steyr AUG used by Saudi forces, have plummeted. These rifles now cost less than $60. Of far more interest to most buyers are the advanced weapons systems that have only recently been made available. These include ATGMs and, perhaps most worryingly, surface-to-air missiles like the SA-7 Grail and its variants. However, it is the ATGMs that are most in demand by all sides in the conflict and have proved to be decisive in various battles around Yemen. Most of the more advanced weapons, like the third-generation ATGMs, have come into the country in the last two years. In addition to weapons, advanced kit like night-vision goggles, hand-launched drones and encrypted communication devices are also widely available.

There are numerous claims that Iran is providing weapons to the Houthis. However, it is the UAE and Saudi Arabia that are providing the vast majority of these more advanced weapons. While they may be intended for anti-Houthi militias and reconstituted units of the part of the Yemeni Army aligned with Yemen's government-in-exile, the leaders of these forces simply sell much of it on the open market (Daily Star, May 1). These militias and army units are poorly paid - if they are paid at all - and the sale of weapons provides a source of funds for both the men and their officers.

There is a long history in Yemen of military units selling weapons and materiel. Between 2004 and 2011, during the Houthis' six wars with the Yemeni government, led by then-President Ali Abdullah Saleh, the rebel's primary source for weapons and ammunition was the Yemeni Army they were fighting.

While recently supplied weapons are being sold by the militias and army units, all sides in the conflict have seized weapons during battles and from Yemeni army stockpiles. These seized weapons, those that are deemed to be in surplus and not readily needed, are sold to arms dealers, third parties and, in some cases, even rivals.

AQAP and the Arms Trade

After the start of the Saudi intervention in Yemen, which began on March 26, 2015, AQAP went on the offensive across much of the southern part of the country. One of the organization's primary objectives was the seizure of government stores of weapons. AQAP succeeded in seizing stockpiles of weapons from sites around the port city of al-Mukalla, among other towns, and captured weapons from fleeing Yemeni Army units.

AQAP's leadership has been tied into the illicit networks that traffic everything from arms to people. These networks have ready access to Yemen's long and unguarded southern coast, allowing them to move all manner of illicit (and licit) goods in and out of Yemen.

The weapons became a ready source of funds for AQAP. The organization kept and stockpiled the ones it most required and sold off those it did not. Unlike the Saudi- and UAE-funded militias and army units, AQAP's operatives are generally well and consistently paid. While AQAP substantially boosted its funding when it seized an estimated $100 million from a branch of the Yemeni Central Bank in al-Mukalla, weapons sales and "taxes" imposed on smugglers are also significant sources of income for the group (Reuters, April 8, 2016). On top of this, AQAP uses its access to weapons, especially ATGMs and (potentially) surface-to-air missiles, as a way to build influence with other al-Qaeda franchises like al-Shabaab.

Regional Proliferation

Relative to Yemen, there are far fewer weapons available in Somalia. This is because Somalia has often acted as a conduit for arms and materiel to other destinations in Africa. As a consequence of this, and the decades of its own civil conflict, weapons command far higher prices in Somalia than in Yemen.

Access to adequate supplies of weapons and materiel has long been a problem for al-Shabaab, and in particular the organization has only ever had limited access to more advanced weapons. Greater access to ATGMs, advanced night vision equipment, lightweight man portable mortars and hand-launched drones would make al-Shabaab a far more lethal opponent.

The leadership of AQAP and al-Shabaab have exchanged top-level operatives, and both organizations have learned from one another over the past five years. AQAP has refined and expanded its intelligence wing, learning from al-Shabaab's own intelligence organization, the Amnniyat. [4] It is almost certain that al-Shabaab will in turn benefit from AQAP's increasing experience in operating and deploying a wider array of weapons. It is also likely that al-Shabaab will benefit from AQAP's access to these weapons.

Al-Shabaab will not be the only group in Somalia to benefit from the outflow of weapons from Yemen. Somalia's pirate gangs, which have had a working relationship with parts of the al-Shabaab organization, may also gain.

Somalia's pirate gangs have been greatly weakened over the last four years due to the efforts of the international community and by the governments of Somalia and Somaliland. Meanwhile, many shipping companies have taken action, hiring armed security teams for their ships. Somalia's pirates have historically been poorly armed, relying on assault rifles and RPGs. If these gangs were to gain access to ATGMs, which can be easily repurposed, or other advanced weapons, it could make them far more of a threat to ships transiting the Bab al-Mandeb and the Somali coast (al-Jazeera, March 15).

Outlook

Al-Shabaab and Somalia's pirate gangs are but two groups that stand to benefit from the availability of weapons in Yemen. Undoubtedly, as the war continues, there will be many more. Yemen's coast is extensive and unguarded. Weapons and materiel are being exported with ease from Yemen to Somalia. It is likely that they are travelling even further afield.

Quite apart from the dangers posed by an unchecked outflow of weapons, including some relatively advanced armaments, the trade is a ready source of cash for al-Qaeda's most capable franchise. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and the UAE's large scale exporting of arms to Yemen will have grave repercussions for both them and the region as a whole.

While personal ownership of weapons in Saudi Arabia is highly regulated, a thriving black market for weapons exists there. Given that Saudi Arabia has little control of its border with Yemen, it is likely that some of the weapons there are making their way across the border to be re-sold in Saudi Arabia to terrorist cells and other organizations that oppose the House of Saud.

The war in Yemen and the weapons provided to its various actors have the potential to reshape and intensify piracy and other regional threats. The outflow of weapons from Yemen is itself of great concern, but knowledge and experience of how best to use them is also being exported. The policy of supplying tens, if not hundreds, of millions of dollars worth of weapons to ad-hoc militias in a country as unstable and strategically located as Yemen will result in a host of unintended and deadly consequences.

NOTES

[1] See: Small Arms Survey. The US has 88.8 guns for every 100 residents. Yemen has 54.8 guns per 100 residents. These numbers only take into consideration small arms and not the medium and heavy arms that are readily available in Yemen.

[2] The US government lost track of 500 million USD worth of weapons and equipment that it provided to Yemen after the outbreak of civil war (Washington Post, March 17, 2015).

[3] Much of the information in this article is based upon multiple interview with a range of Yemen based analysts and journalists conducted in April and May 2017.

[4] See: "Fighting the Long War: The Evolution of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula," CTC Sentinel, January 23, 2017.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
The Threat al-Shabaab Poses to Kenya's Election

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Sunguta West Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, The Threat al-Shabaab Poses to Kenya's Election, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947bbdb4.html [accessed 11 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

With Kenyans heading to the polls on August 8, voting once again against the backdrop of the security threat posed by al-Shabaab, the recent supposed theft by militants of an electronic voting kit has raised fears that the group could seek to directly target the election process.

While fears of some form of electronic threat are overstated  and possibly owe something to the hacking claims that have followed elections in the West  al-Shabaab could still seek to disrupt the polls in a more traditional manner.

Hacking 'Threat'

Kenya introduced some electronic voting measures in 2013, in response to recommendations made by the Kriegler Commission in its report on the deadly violence that followed the 2007 presidential election. These have since been codified, and Kenya goes into its 2017 election using a biometric voter registration system, candidate registration system and electronic voter identification. These could all be targeted, according to some government officials.

Allegations of the potential threat to the elections emerged as far back as December 2016, when the country was debating the merits of using an electronic voting system (The Star, Dec. 29, 2016). At the time, Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru warned that al-Shabaab, or any cyber-criminal group, could target electronic voting methods. He advised against using the system, pointing out similar systems had failed in various countries and suggesting that Kenya should not consider itself to be an exception (The Standard, December 31, 2016).

Those fears are not unfounded. In 2012, a hacker known as Direxer brought down 103 government of Kenya websites. In May 2016, hacking collective Anonymous carried out a sophisticated hack on the Kenyan ministry of foreign affairs, stealing data and confidential files, including email conversations and security related communications, and posting them on the dark web.

The issue appeared to come to a head in February this year when suspected al-Shabaab fighters reportedly stole biometric voter registration kits belonging to Kenya's elections manager, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) (Nairobi News , February 2). The militants attacked a local police station in Mandera, over-powering the 21 police officers manning the station before making off with the kits, three guns, ammunition, a police vehicle and a motorcycle (The Star, February 2; Daily Nation, February 8).

The incident further fueled speculation that the group had an interest in directly targeting the elections, but al-Shabaab later denied the voting kits were among the items it had seized, instead saying the government needed to come clean and admit it had simply lost the equipment (Daily Nation, February 6).

Unjustified Fears

Whether al-Shabaab poses a real threat to the election is the subject of intense debate in Kenya.

Ali Hassan Joho, the Mombasa governor and a member of the opposition Coalition for Reforms and Democracy alliance, has said the debate simply bolsters al-Shabaab's credentials as a terror group. He warned that making the militants part of the election discourse gives them a degree of prestige that they did not deserve. The governor questioned the militant's abilities to jam any electronic system and charged that the debate simply exposed Kenya's weakness.

Indeed, there is no evidence to suggest that al-Shabaab has acquired the technology to deploy a cyber or electronic attack. The group is not known to have executed one in the past, although it has targeted telecommunication installations. On May 11, the militants destroyed a telephone mast in Amuma area near the Somali border, as they carried out an attack in El-Wak town. The attacked left a quarry mine-worker dead (The Star, May 16). And in December 2016, militants destroyed four telecommunication masts belonging to mobile companies Safaricom and Orange, in Mandera County in a single week (Daily Nation, December 13, 2016; The Star, December 16, 2016). The move cut the region off from the rest of the country for months and left local residents fearing the militants were isolating them in order to carry out sustained attacks.

More likely, the threat from al-Shabaab is of a more traditional nature. The group recently stepped-up attacks in the border areas of Garissa, Mandera and Wajir, carrying out attacks in regions that are by and large poorly policed.

On May 15, suspected al-Shabaab gunmen attacked Omar Jillo, a small town center in Lafey sub-county in Mandera, killing a local chief and abducting two Kenya Police Reservists (Capital FM, May 16, 2016). Omar Jillo, like other towns in the area, is under a dawn-to-dusk curfew to try to curb militant activity.

Queuing voters at polling stations are a potential soft target for the militants. In the past, they have used grenades and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to attack public places, the police, churches and other institutions. Polling centers, which are usually poorly policed or set-up without considering the possibility of a strike by militants, could be a relatively easy targets.

Furthermore, the kidnapping of election officials cannot be ruled out. The militant group is known to kidnap aid workers, tourists and other officials for ransom. In April, fighters kidnapped four aid officials working for the World Health Organization in central Somalia (Hiiraan Online, April 4). Five years ago such abductions prompted Kenya to send its troops into Somalia.

Potential for Disruption

Until recently, al-Shabaab had not commented on Kenya's elections, but in March the militants accused President Uhuru Kenyatta of plotting to use the security services to rig the polls.

Ali Mohamoud Rage (a.k.a. Ali Dheree) told the Somalia-based Radio al-Furqan that Kenyatta had armed the police and bought armored vehicles to suppress and intimidate any opposition. Dheree pointed to Kenyatta's surprise visit to Kenyan forces in the border town of Dhobley, saying the visit showed Kenyatta was fearful of the political opposition and was desperately trying to shore up support from a military he had long-neglected and left to suffer heavy losses in battles with al-Shabaab (Harar 24 New, March 23).

Dheree's statement at least confirmed that the militant group was closely monitoring electoral developments in Kenya.

Analysts say that by targeting the electronic process, the militants would be attempting to turn public opinion against the government by showing its inability to secure the election process. In a country that has seen significant electoral violence in the past, that could ignite tempers and even drive calls for the withdrawal of KDF in Somalia in order to bolster security at home. An effective attack of this nature could disrupt and destabilize the country.

However, the chances of a cyber-attack are slim. The government will need to ensure it takes steps to secure the electronic voting system, as well as step up its data protection measures. But that is simply a matter of good practice.

In reality, the threat al-Shabaab poses to the polls on August 8 is more likely to come from grenades, guns and explosives than in the form of an electronic attack.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Mali: Limited Progress on Sahel Joint Force

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Alexander Sehmer Publication Date 16 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Mali: Limited Progress on Sahel Joint Force, 16 June 2017, Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947bc664.html [accessed 11 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 proposed anti-terror joint force of the Sahel G5 nations - Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger - received a boost this month when the EU pledged the equivalent of $56 million to bolster security efforts in the region (EU News, June 5). However, plans for the unit to be operational before the end of 2017 appear to be ambitious.

The joint force was proposed at a G5 meeting in Bamako in February, held in the wake of a devastating suicide attack on a camp in Gao that housed Malian soldiers and rebels - nearly 80 people were killed (Maliweb, February 6; Maliweb, January 19).

In a speech in May, Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop said the proposed force would be ready by the end of the year (APA, May 4). It is expected to be made up of up to 10,000 personnel - an original proposal has said 5,000 - and will be led by Mali's chief of the general staff, General Didier Dacko, a veteran of the country's battle against Islamist extremists (Sahel Standard, June 11). Few other details, however, have emerged of what this regional force will look like.

A possible model is the Chad-based multi-national joint task force established to battle Boko Haram. The proposed G5 force, however, would have a much wider remit. It would operate in all five countries, with a focus on the border areas. As well as counter-terrorism, it is envisaged that the force will combat trafficking and organized crime.

There is a pressing need for cross-border initiatives to tackle militants in the Sahel. In March, fighters thought to be part of al-Qaeda's broad Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen alliance attacked a military post in Boulikessi, which sits on Mali's border with Burkina Faso, killing 11 soldiers (Maliweb, March 6). Burkina Faso, which is battling a homegrown jihadist threat in Ansar ul Islam, is dependent on its neighbor's efforts, while Chad is the only of the G5 states with anything like a functioning air force. A joint effort makes a good deal of sense.

Coordination between the Sahel partners, however, remains poor, and each still lacks the capability to adequately tackle extremist networks. But the proposed joint force's broad remit and disagreements on over how it will be funded are also holding up its establishment.

Although heavily promoted by the French, whose own Operation Barkhane has been active in the region since August 2014, there are genuine concerns that handing wide-ranging powers to military units in a region where it is often hard to distinguish the affiliations of armed groups could be counterproductive. It seems international forces, including the United Nation's own Mali mission, MINUSMA, will need to remain in place for some time to come.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
After Raqqa: The Challenges Posed by Syria's Tribal Networks

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Aris Roussinos Publication Date 16 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, After Raqqa: The Challenges Posed by Syria's Tribal Networks, 16 June 2017, Terrorism Monitor Volume: 15 Issue: 12, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947bce74.html [accessed 11 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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As the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) approach the northern suburbs of Raqqa, the long-running policy debate over the advisability of using as a primary U.S. partner a militia that is dominated by the People's Protection Units (YPG), has reached fever pitch. Dire warnings have been made of the risks to eastern Syria's future stability that may result from a reliance on a Kurdish-led force with links to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK, Partiya Karkeren Kurdistane), to storm the city and possibly even govern it once it has been captured.

The increasingly bitter tone of the debate is only partly a reflection of the complex social and cultural dynamics of the diverse population of northern and eastern Syria. Instead, it is primarily a result of the intractable conflict north of Syria's border, in Turkey's restive and overwhelmingly Kurdish south-eastern provinces. Turkey's failure to field a viable rebel force for the Raqqa operation has led to a deepened U.S. engagement with the YPG, sharpening Turkish fears that northern Syria will become a PKK training and logistics hub (al-Monitor, March 27).

In its search for a local solution to the problem of northeast Syria, the United States has found itself increasingly held hostage to dynamics outside its own control, with the growing risk that American troops will be drawn into a conflict they cannot adequately manage. In seeking to defeat Islamic State (IS) and establish stable governance in what is fast becoming an unofficial mandate territory, the United States will have to manage the expectations of both its Kurdish and Turkish allies, as well as their respective Arab proxy forces.

Expanding the Arab-Kurd Binary

For primarily political reasons - both local, in ensuring the compliance of Arab populations, and regional, in assuaging Turkey's concerns of Kurdish dominance - the SDF has placed great emphasis in putting an Arab face on the Raqqa operation, recruiting Arab fighters in ever-growing numbers (Rudaw, March 28).

Some Arabs have joined purely Arab militias, such as the Manbij Military Council or the Shammar tribal outfit Jaish al-Sanaddid (ANHA, April 18; ANHA, July 15, 2015). Increasingly others, however, have joined the ranks of the predominantly Kurdish YPG and Asayis gendarmerie forces (ANHA, February 27). Yet the precise ethnic balance between Kurds and Arabs within the SDF, despite its political and tactical importance, remains unknown to outside observers, with differing estimates given even by the coalition.

It has become axiomatic among advocates for the Syrian rebels that only predominantly Arab forces can hope to take or hold Raqqa. There is little evidence for this position. Identical claims were made about the YPG's ability to capture or hold the predominantly Arab cities of Tal Abyad and Manbij. However, in the years and months since their capture from IS, no military or political resistance to Democratic Union Party (PYD, Partiya Yekitiya Demokrat) rule has taken hold.

Instead, the PYD has devolved government to local Arab-led civilian councils, and recruitment to predominantly Arab SDF militias has proceeded at a steady rate (ARANews, August 10, 2016). It is reasonable to consider that an excessive focus on ethnic conflict between Kurds and Arabs in northeast Syria, fueled by often simplistic coverage that reduces the region's complexities to binary Kurd-Arab hostility, is as much a spoiling effort to prevent PYD expansion as it is based upon genuine concern for local stability, or indeed on any appreciation of local realities.

Yet as the SDF move south into the tribal Arab heartlands of Raqqa and Deir Ezzor, the U.S. troops accompanying and supporting them are moving into unknown territory, tasked with ensuring the pacification and compliance of tribal Arab populations whose loyalties and political aspirations are almost wholly unknown. In the ensuing policy debate, the Arab tribes of northern and eastern Syria have been treated like blank sheets upon which the political desires of local and regional actors have been projected. What they themselves want remains largely unknown.

Regime Loyalties

The tribes of northern and eastern Syria were little studied before the war, and inaccessible to impartial researchers after (Syria Deeply, December 11, 2015). Where they have come to the world's attention, it is only as instruments of propaganda, swearing fealty to the Syrian regime, IS or PYD, as determined by the ebb and flow of the front lines. It is unclear to what extent the war's hardships have revitalized the bonds of mutual defense among tribesmen that segmentary theory would suggest; or whether the ever-growing array of external sponsors has encouraged greater division within tribal units, as rival chiefs battle for supremacy, or youths discard the age-old tribal loyalties for the new bonds of duty and affection offered by armed groups with more ambitious goals.

In rural Deir Ezzor, the case of the Shaitat tribe affords a vivid example of the choices tribal units make under the pressures of war. One of eastern Syria's most powerful tribes, with around 90,000 members, the Shaitat joined the rebellion at the outset and took control of many of the region's lucrative oil wells.

As IS conquered almost all of eastern Syria in 2014, the Shaitat bore the brunt of some of the bitterest intra-jihadist fighting of the war in a bloody summer campaign along the lower Euphrates Valley (al-Monitor, June 25, 2014; Syria Deeply, August 1, 2014). At least 800 Shaitat tribal fighters were massacred by IS forces (al-Monitor July 2015). Many survivors fled to regime territory, and they have since reconstituted themselves as a warlike and highly-motivated loyalist militia defending the beleaguered Deir Ezzor SAA garrison from frequent IS assaults (The National, November 11, 2014; Youtube, September 25, 2015).

In Hasakah, meanwhile, the PYD has struggled to win the loyalties of tribes long affiliated with the regime through decades of patronage and clientelist politics (Zaman al-Wasl, March 29, 2016). Despite an ongoing Arab tribal outreach effort on the PYD's part, the Tayy tribe has remained loyal to Damascus, providing the bedrock, along with a section of the region's divided Christian population, of the local loyalist National Defense Force (NDF) militia (see Terrorism Monitor, March 24).

Dangers of 'Weaponizing' Tribal Structures

Rumours of the existence of loyalist underground militias years after the city's fall to the rebels and some months into IS rule suggest that once in Raqqa the PYD will, after the city's liberation from IS, find itself competing with the Syrian regime for the loyalty of its inhabitants (Aymenn Jawad, July 29, 2014). Furthermore, local tribes may use the comparative strength and reach of the regime and the PYD's competing external sponsors of Russia, Iran and the United States as bargaining chips as they weigh up the costs and benefits of loyalty to one faction or another, or indeed of inter-tribal competition.

Even within the Arab tribe most committed to the PYD project, the Shammar confederation, it is apparent that the SDF umbrella contains two politically distinct militias with perhaps widely differing political desires.

On the one hand, the SDF's long-time allies, the Jaish al-Sanaddid, led by Sheikh Humaydi Daham al-Hadi, are utilized primarily as a mobile gendarmerie to provide security over thinly populated desert areas, appearing to view this as an opportunity to re-establish their long-lost historical suzerainty over the eastern Syrian desert. On the other, the Syrian Elite Forces, composed of Shammar and Shaitat tribesmen and led by former Syrian National Council head and Shammar aristocrat Ahmad Jarba, seem keen to establish a notional rebel-branded autonomy within the framework of SDF rule (NOW Lebanon , May 26, 2016). This militia has perhaps set its sights on a governance role in either Raqqa or Deir Ezzor.

In seeking to weaponize Syrian tribal structures against IS, the United States will have to approach tribal politics with a keen anthropological eye, taking care to ensure it is not laying the foundation for future clashes between tribe and clan factions in the aftermath of the current conflict. Managing the divergent political aspirations of disparate factions within a broad multi-ethnic coalition is a complex task, and the United States should analyze local political divisions carefully before disbursing weapons and ammunition in significant quantities.

The ability of the United States and its SDF allies to win over tribes like the Tayy or Shaitat, or at least avoid the need to confront them, will depend greatly on what concrete advantages in wealth or influence cooperation with the new governing power will grant them, as well as upon the hope that Russia, Iran or Damascus - or even some new form of jihadist insurgency - will not seek to wreak havoc in the Euphrates Valley for its own ends.

Cautious Disengagement

As the SDF sweeps into Raqqa city, and perhaps rural Deir Ezzor, the U.S. troops supporting them will find themselves providing military and logistic support to a Kurdish-led indirect-rule project of uncertain duration over local Arab tribes. The political desires of those tribes are largely unknown, and the tribes themselves may well be deeply divided.

Given that the Syrian regime, various rebel factions and an al-Qaeda offshoot drawn from local tribes have each been unable to hold these regions, the ability of what will likely be seen as a doubly foreign occupying force to do so without being sucked into a grueling counterinsurgency campaign is an open question.

U.S. policymakers need to be clear on the U.S. exit strategy and what the desired end-state is for the Euphrates River Valley region, before being pulled into an open-ended occupation by the power vacuum the retreat of IS-established borders will create.

The longstanding, if fragile, coexistence between the PYD and the Syrian regime in the cities of Qamishli and Hasakah may present an opportunity for U.S. forces to disengage from the region in the near-to-medium future (al-Araby, August 26, 2016; Syria Direct, April 26).

While advocates for the Syrian rebels will likely see a U.S. presence in the region as an opportunity to establish some form of rebel rule under military protection, the advisability of enforcing failed rebel governance structures in this volatile border region by force of U.S. arms remains questionable at best.

Instead, some form of shared governance between a Syrian regime actively re-establishing itself in the eastern governorates and a PYD-led local government structure acting through co-opted local Arab elites may be the least risky form of disengagement from the region.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Constitutional Debate Rages on in Georgia

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Vasili Rukhadze Publication Date 13 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 78 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Constitutional Debate Rages on in Georgia, 13 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 78, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947bfe74.html [accessed 11 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 June 8, Georgia's months-long, contentious constitutional reform debate took a new turn when the Georgian parliamentary speaker, Irakli Kobakhidze, declared that the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party would no longer include in the new constitution a clause legally enabling foreign citizens and entities to purchase agricultural land in Georgia (Netgazeti.ge, June 8; Civil Georgia, June 9). This particular clause had been the cause of much controversy among Georgian political parties and the public in general. Some political groups argued that banning the sale of agricultural land would discourage foreign businesses from investing money in the country, which would negatively affect the Georgian agricultural sector's already dismal production output. On the other hand, the wider Georgian public fiercely opposed the clause, mainly on the grounds that for a small country such as Georgia, its land resources are too scarce to sell to foreign citizens (Channel One, May 22; Liberali.ge, May 7, 2013).

During this debate, the Georgian political classes showed little creativity for coming up with a workable solution. Specifically, the issue became a zero-sum game, whereby the clause about the sale of land could either be included in the proposed amendments to the constitution or left out. Political groups simply failed to explore other options, such as for instance the possibility of leasing (instead of selling) land, which, on the one hand, would allow foreign citizens to start businesses in the country and attract investments, and on the other hand, would address the Georgian public's fears. Ultimately, however, GD fully sided with the opponents to foreign land sales.

However, the land issue is not the only big subject in the new constitution. Another highly controversial matter is the question of the country's electoral system. Specifically, Georgia currently has a mixed proportional and majoritarian system, according to which half of the parliament is elected through proportional party lists and the other half through majoritarian, single-mandate constituencies. The new constitution would scrap this system, in favor of purely proportional party lists (On.ge, May 1).

Such an electoral system works quite effectively in many Western democracies with sophisticated and well-developed political party systems. However, the problem with Georgia is that the country lacks well-established, institutionally developed parties. Political parties in Georgia resemble small, semi-feudal clans, which lack most basic party infrastructure, such as extensive networks of regional branches and financial resources, not to mention qualified political cadres and elaborate political programs. Parties largely revolve around the whims of their chief or founder-usually a disgruntled former high ranking government official or a wealthy businessman-who established his or her party as a vehicle to gain power. By switching to a proportional electoral system, the ruling GD seems to be attempting to further consolidate power in parliament, making it impossible for its members to gain seats in the legislature independently or to later defect, thus forcefully attaching them even closer to the party leadership.

The proposed new electoral system is also skewed in favor of bigger parties, and particularly in favor of the ruling GD. In fact, the new system would make it nearly impossible for small parties to enter the legislature, as under the proposed amended constitution, parties would no longer be allowed to form electoral blocs. Moreover, if a party fails to garner at least 5 percent of the vote nationwide, it would not only be prevented from entering the legislature (as is the case already) but, most importantly, all of its popular votes would go to the party that won with most votes. This strikingly differs from the current rule, whereby the votes cast for such a losing party are distributed to all the parties in the general electoral race that successfully overcame the 5 percent threshold (On.ge, May 1; Civil Georgia, May 3). Needless to say, such a constitutional rule change would help keep GD in power, even if it falls far short of garnering an outright majority of votes cast in the 2020 parliamentary elections.

The third controversy involves the election of a president. Currently, Georgia elects a head of state (with largely nominal powers) by direct popular vote. The new constitution would change this rule. Instead, a president would be chosen by 300 "electors"-150 members of the parliament and 150 representatives of regional municipalities. Once again, the new rule would give the ruling GD overwhelming latitude to handpick its loyal candidate in the next parliament. GD pointedly dismisses the opposition's concerns on this matter (see EDM, March 30).

In order to take the discussion of constitutional reforms out of the hands of the country's political classes and, at the same time, to give the new proposed constitution some sense of popular legitimacy, Georgian Dream went on a regional tour, holding large town hall meetings across the country's various regions. However, these town halls often took on a tragicomic character, as many ordinary citizens, unversed in the legal nuances of the constitutional debate, engaged in outright praise or condemnation of the government about topics entirely unrelated to the constitution. Some critics even went so far as to compare these meetings to Bolshevik public gatherings of the 1920s and 1930s, when all decisions were foregone conclusions of the Bolshevik Party (Rustavi 2 TV, May 2-18).

After winning the October 2016 elections, Georgian Dream quickly consolidated power and started preparing for the 2020 elections. One of its strategies has apparently been to adopt a new constitution explicitly favorable to the ruling party. In this sense, GD continues in the tradition of previous Georgian ruling parties and regimes, which all also tried to tailor the country's constitution to their own needs. Even though the GD's constitution has not been adopted yet, it is already raising serious questions about its legitimacy and political validity. Moreover, GD evidently has failed to understand that, historically, every Georgian regime that tried to tinker with the constitution to strengthen its hold on power unintentionally achieved the opposite effect and suffered the negative political consequences of an altered constitution under the next regime. Perhaps, GD will realize this soon. But so far, there is no sign of that.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Mess in the Middle East Opens Few Opportunities for Russia

Publisher Jamestown Foundation Author Pavel K. Baev Publication Date 12 June 2017 Citation / Document Symbol Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 77 Cite as Jamestown Foundation, Mess in the Middle East Opens Few Opportunities for Russia, 12 June 2017, Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 14 Issue: 77, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947c09a4.html [accessed 11 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

Russia's best chances to claim a prominent role in the Middle East usually come amidst a regional escalation of tensions. But the confluence of diplomatic rows, terrorist attacks and air strikes at the start of June did not exactly play into Moscow's hands. As usual, the Iraq/Syria war zone produced its share of breaking news. Yet, the bitter quarrel (triggered by an alleged hacker attack) between Qatar and its Gulf neighbors, led by Saudi Arabia, has been making the most headlines. Moscow has firmly denied that it could have been behind the publication on the Qatar News Agency website of a soon-erased statement on improving relations with Iran. In any case, this sabotage clearly surpassed the usual rather mediocre level of sophistication of cyberattacks generally attributable to Russian "patriotic hackers" (RBC, June 7). Meanwhile, against the background of this breakdown of Arab "solidarity," the oil price has shown no propensity to climb higher, so Russia cannot expect any additional revenues for its stressed budget (Snob.ru, June 6).

Most expert analyses in Moscow have emphasized the depth of animosity between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, but recommendations to the Kremlin have generally suggested caution and patience (Rossiiskaya Gazeta, June 6). President Vladimir Putin was busy on the phone with the Qatari emir, as well as leaders of Egypt and Turkey; and Qatar's foreign minister paid a visit to Moscow last Friday (June 9). But the space for Russian diplomatic mediation is quite limited (Politcom.ru, June 7). For the Gulf monarchies, Russia is too close to Iran-and increasingly dependent on this "brotherhood-in-arms" in keeping its Syrian intervention going (Forbes.ru, June 7). The Russian leadership is probably not entirely aware that it has become an ally of the regional Shia coalition (including such dubious actors as Hezbollah), while only 4 percent of Russians see Iran as a friendly state (Levada.ru, June 5). Moscow seeks to escape from this entanglement by cultivating ties with Turkey. But while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan opted to offer full support to Qatar, including even sending a few hundred Turkish troops there, Russia is not quite able to show such resolve (Carnegie.ru, June 6).

Russia certainly needs both Turkey and Iran to sustain control over the "de-escalation zones" in Syria, which Putin praised as the beginning of a peace process for this war-torn country-despite the chain of breakdowns in negotiations between Damascus and Syrian opposition groups (RIA Novosti, June 9). While declaring its determination to confront the Islamic State (IS), Russia is abstaining from any contribution to the battles for Mosul and Raqqa, which could profoundly change the dynamics of the wars in Iraq and Syria (Gazeta.ru, June 7). Moscow cannot show any sympathy to the Syrian Kurds, which would undoubtedly irk Ankara, and remains ambivalent about the Iraqi Kurds' push for independence (Kommersant, June 7). Russian missile strikes serve rather the purpose of demonstrating capabilities than hitting high-value targets (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, May 31). Moscow continues to issue protestations, however, against the US-led coalition air strikes on the pro-al-Assad militia in southeastern Syria (RBC, June 7). Putin also made a particular point about the domestic political situation in the United States, which, according to him, is not helpful for solving global problems (RIA Novosti, June 9).

Some of these domestic matters are indeed confusing, and it is difficult to square President Donald Trump's sharp demarche against Qatar with the appeal from the State Department to ease the economic blockade of this suddenly ostracised state (RBC, June 9). The main impact on Washington's foreign policy-making still comes from the investigation of Russian interference in the US elections. The sensational testimony of former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director James Comey to the Senate Intelligence Committee (on June 8) produced no direct evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Moscow (to the great relief of the White House), but it added to the estimate of the scale of Russia's cyberattacks last year (New Times, June 9). This does not bode well for the planned meeting between Trump and Putin during the July G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany (Newsru.com, June 10). The Russian president has been careful in recent interviews to moderate his anti-American invectives. But the propaganda machine maintains its US-bashing; and 69 percent of Russians currently consider the US a hostile state, signifying only a slight drop from 72 percent a year ago (Levada.ru, June 5). In this situation, it is really hard to see how Russian mediation in the Qatar crisis could be acceptable for Washington (RBC, June 10).

Interested as Russia is in the vital question of global oil prices, it cannot pretend to be an impartial mediator with plenty of resources for peace-building. Moreover, the long shadow of the Ukraine crisis follows it everywhere; yet another recent ceasefire breakdown in the Donbas war zone has drawn attention to Russia's ongoing aggression there (Kommersant, June 9). Every statement about the importance of dialogue between Russia and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is routinely supplemented by assertions of the need to build up Russian deterrence capabilities. And the series of military exercises this summer is certain to aggravate mutual threat assessments (RBC, June 8). Every Russian diplomatic maneuver in the Middle East, not to mention its missile strikes, are inevitably interpreted in Europe (though perhaps less so in the scandal-ridden White House) as attempts to gain advantage in the evolving confrontation.

In many political campaigns (with the interesting exception of the recent elections in the United Kingdom), Russian hackers became bogeymen blamed for all sorts of mischief. But in reality, the main instrument of choice for Russian troublemakers is corruption. A striking parallel thus exists between the Kremlin and the Gulf royal courts: As the Saudi and Qatari corruption feeds terrorism, Russian corruption connects with espionage and organized crime. It is certainly far easier to rain bombs on terrorists and to trace hackers by their digital fingerprints than to follow the dirty money. The investigations in Washington might hit a solid wall in the banks and degenerate into partisan bickering. But in Moscow, Alexei Navalny, a charismatic leader of the Russian opposition, has called his supporters to the streets this Monday (June 12) to show their disagreement with the politics of corruption. His role currently might appear marginal, but his message rings true-and might acquire further resonance that could shatter Putin's dominance. Politics based on lies often appear overpowering, and Russian intrigues in the Middle East perhaps seem smart and sophisticated; but as the latter add to Russia's over-stretch, the former tend to unravel with shocking abruptness.

Copyright notice:  2010 The Jamestown Foundation
Mexico: Ensure accountability for journalist murders

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Article 19, Mexico: Ensure accountability for journalist murders, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947c38d4.html [accessed 11 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 following statement was delivered by ARTICLE 19 at the 35th Session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), as part of the Item 4 General Debate, on country situations that require the Council's attention.

2017 has so far been a lethal year for the press in Mexico; evidence of the government failing to implement its commitments under HRC resolution 33/2 on the safety of journalists.

ARTICLE 19 condemns the murders of journalists Cecilio Pineda, Ricardo Monlui, Miroslava Breach, Maximino Rodriguez, Jonathan Rodriguez and Javier Valdez in six different states. We condemn the enforced disappearance of journalist Salvador Adame on 18 May 2017 in Michoacan, the twenty-fourth journalist to be disappeared since 2003. ARTICLE 19 recorded 19 aggressions against press covering elections in Mexico and Coahuila, in the run up to polling day on 4 June this year.

ARTICLE 19 also remembers the 11 journalists killed in Mexico in 2016, and we deplore that no one has been held accountable for these crimes.

In response to pressure, we acknowledge the President's announcement in May this year of "Actions for Freedom of Expression and for the Protection of Journalists and Defenders", as well as the appointment of a new head of the office of Special Prosecutor for Crimes against Freedom of Expression (FEADLE). However, whether necessary action to end impunity and escalating violence will match this rhetoric, remains to be seen.

We regret that the government refuse to publicly acknowledge, yet alone condemn, that attacks on journalists are committed by or at the behest of public officials. This includes where journalists are under the protection of the Federal mechanism. The government places full blame for attacks on organised criminals, yet ARTICLE 19 identified connections to public officials in 53% of attacks recorded in 2016.

The escalating violence is an indictment of the effectiveness of the Mechanism for Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists. Journalist Cecilio Pineda was under the mechanism's protection before he was murdered in March 2017, this had ended because of the inadequate protection measures offered to him.

The stand-alone mechanism must be overhauled with a fully integrated approach, bringing together protection across responsible governmental bodies and guided by a comprehensive protection policy. The mechanism has suffered from a lack of transparency, limits to technical capacity, and issues with financial and operational sustainability o, all of which must be addressed.

The impunity rate for cases taken on by Special Prosecutor remains at almost 100%. Deficiencies in investigations, especially to establish that an attacker's motives relate to a targeted journalists' work, remain a primary cause of impunity.

Of the 426 attacks on the press we documented last year, 72 were online, with women journalists and bloggers disproportionately affected. Surveillance is also an issue: many organisations have left the Alliance for Open Government (OGP) over accusations of sophisticated spyware being deployed against critical human rights organisations and journalists.

Attacks on media independence from the government increased markedly in 2016, undermining the enabling environment for journalists. The abuse of civil lawsuits by public officials to claim "moral damage" against critical journalists, abuse of official advertising revenue distribution as a means to pressure media, and other forms of stigmatisation, seek to deter criticism of the government, mostly relating to human rights abuses, corruption and impunity.

We call on this Council, its members and observer states to urge the authorities of the Government of the Mexican Republic to:

Develop a clear roadmap, setting out specific goals and indicators to achieve the Presidency's "Actions for Freedom of Expression and for the Protection of Journalists and Defenders", with the full and effective participation of civil society and journalists;

Acknowledge that organised crime is only one source of risk for journalists, and commit to confront threats for which State agents are responsible;

Ensure operational and financial sustainability of the protection mechanism for journalists and human rights defenders and ensure transparency of its work, making a public work plan to coordinate institutions that make up the governing board of the protection mechanism and Federal entities responsible for preventing and protecting against attacks on journalists.

Expand the protection measures afforded by the protection mechanism, to integrate a gender perspective and systematise protocols to guard against the recurrence of threats and attacks;

Establish, in line with the recommendations of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, an Advisory Council against impunity, comprised of experts to recommend reforms and strategies to end impunity for attacks on journalists in Mexico.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19
Turkey: ARTICLE 19 submits expert opinion in the case of brothers, Ahmet and Mehmet Altan

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 19 June 2017 Cite as Article 19, Turkey: ARTICLE 19 submits expert opinion in the case of brothers, Ahmet and Mehmet Altan, 19 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947c4444.html [accessed 11 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 Monday 19 June, ARTICLE 19 will submit an expert opinion to Istanbul's 26th High Criminal Court examining the charges against prominent novelists and political commentators, Ahmet Altan and Mehmet Altan. The brothers will be tried alongside 15 other defendants, with the first hearing on 19 June. The case is the first trial of journalists accused of taking part in last year's failed coup attempt. The charges are detailed in a 247-page long indictment, which identifies President Erdogan and the Turkish government as the victims. ARTICLE 19 calls on the court to consider international human rights in reaching its judgement and for the defendants to be acquitted and released from pre-trial detention.

The Altans have been charged with "attempting to overthrow the Turkish Grand National Assembly", "attempting to overthrow the Government of Turkey", "attempting to abolish the Constitutional order" and "Committing crimes on behalf of an armed terrorist organisation without being a member". If found guilty, they could receive up to three aggravated life sentences.

ARTICLE 19 considers that the charges form part of a politically-motivated campaign of harassment against journalists and other dissenting voices in Turkey following the failed coup against President Erdogan in July 2016.

The main evidence presented in the indictment are television interviews, news articles and opinion pieces, which comment on the political situation in Turkey and include criticism of the government. The Turkish government argues that writing these articles amounts to the use of force and violence to effectively overthrow the government in place.

"There is no possible causal link between the defendants' news articles and the failed coup of July 2016," said Gabrielle Guillemin, Senior Legal Officer for ARTICLE 19, "That the defendants may be sentenced to aggravated life imprisonment merely for publishing columns commenting on the political situation in Turkey is grossly disproportionate and would amount to a grave miscarriage of justice."

Under international and European human right law, Turkey is obliged to ensure that restrictions on freedom of expression, and in particular on the freedom of the media, are provided by laws which are sufficiently clear and precise, pursue a legitimate aim and are necessary and proportionate in a democratic society.

ARTICLE 19 believes that the provisions which form the basis of the defendants' indictment violate international standards on freedom of expression. The provisions are so vague as to be virtually meaningless and open the door to arbitrary interpretation.

The majority of the 17 defendants on trial are currently either in exile or have been held in pre-trial detention for the last 10 months. On 13 June, the European Court of Human Rights wrote to the Turkish government requesting its response to a number of questions to determine whether the human rights of ten detained journalists, including the Altans, have been violated due to the length of their pre-trial detention.

ARTICLE 19 believes the trial to be politically motivated and calls on the authorities to drop all charges against the accused in the absence, in the indictment, of evidence of involvement in an internationally recognised crime and to immediately and unconditionally release those held in pre-trial detention.

The full text of the expert opinion is available below in Turkish and English.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19
Eritrea: ARTICLE 19 disturbed at situation for free expression

Publisher Article 19 Publication Date 14 June 2017 Cite as Article 19, Eritrea: ARTICLE 19 disturbed at situation for free expression, 14 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947c7654.html [accessed 11 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 following statement was delivered at the 35th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, during an Item 4 interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Eritrea

Mr Vice President,

ARTICLE 19 welcomes the report of the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Eritrea. We remain disturbed that the denial of freedom of expression, assembly and association rights remains "systematically entrenched" in Eritrea, as the Commission of Inquiry found last year.

The silencing of independent media and critical voices has been central to, and has enabled, the Eritrean government's apparatus of repression, sustaining a climate of impunity worsened by a perpetual "state of emergency" and the absence of the rule of law.

No private media have existed in Eritrea since the last eight private newspapers were forced to close in 2001, when at least 18 journalists and 11 former government officials (part of a collective known as G-15) were arrested on the pretext of 'national security'. These detentions have been condemned by two ACHPR decisions, the most recent in 2016 concerning Dawit Isaak.

ARTICLE 19 estimates that a total of 69 journalists have been arbitrarily arrested and detained for exercising their right to freedom of expression since 2001, without charge or fair trial. While at least eight journalists are thought to have died in detention, a wall of silence means it is impossible to know how many others remain in prison, where they are, and what their condition is.

Government-controlled media is the only type of local media in Eritrea: they act as a mouthpiece of the Ministry of Information. Access to alternative information sources, including online, is limited. We share the Special Rapporteur's concerns that since 2016, new regulations require Internet cafes to register customers before they can use the Internet. We also note that Eritrea's sole and government owned telecommunications provider continues to routinely block online news sources. Internet penetration levels, and Internet speeds, remain woefully slow.

We again call on the Eritrean government to account for the whereabouts and wellbeing of detained journalists and G-15 political prisoners, and ensure the unconditional release of those that are still alive, and reparations made to victims or their families.

We also call on the Eritrean government to end its policy of non-cooperation with the United Nations', including the Special Rapporteur, and to facilitate access to the country at the earliest possibility. The institutions that are needed in Eritrea to safeguard human rights can only be established with technical assistance, which will benefit the Eritrean people.

This Council must renew the Special Rapporteur's mandate at this session, and ensure accountability for human rights violations in the country, including through referral of the situation to the UN Security Council. We also call on the African Union to establish an appropriate accountability mechanism without delay.

Thank you.

Copyright notice: Copyright ARTICLE 19
French judge receives families of journalists murdered in Mali

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, French judge receives families of journalists murdered in Mali, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947cf814.html [accessed 11 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.

In a long a meeting in Paris yesterday, the judge in charge of the French investigation into the double murder of French journalists Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon in northern Mali in 2013 briefed the families about the latest developments in the case and assured them he was determined to identify those responsible.





Judge Jean-Marc Herbaut received the families in the anti-terrorism department of the central law courts in Paris. Representatives of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Radio France Internationale (RFI), the French public broadcaster for whom Dupont and Verlon worked, also attended.





The meeting, which lasted several hours, was the first hearing in the case since Herbaut took over the French judicial investigation in October 2015.





Dupont and Verlon were kidnapped in Kidal, in northern Mali, shortly after interviewing Amberri Ag Rhissa, one of the chiefs of the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) on 2 November 2013.





Their abductors shot them dead in the desert some 10 to 20 minutes later when their vehicle broke down. Abdelkrim al Tuareg, the head of the jihadi group Katiba Al Ansar, subsequently claimed their double-murder. According to the French army, he was later killed in combat.





"We welcome Judge Herbaut's initiative and his declared desire to press on with the investigation," said Clea Kahn-Sriber, the head of RSF's Africa desk. "This is a complex case in which several aspects have resisted clarification but we hope that all leads will be pursued so that the investigation can advance as quickly as possible and the suspects who are still alive can be quickly identified and located."





The judge said newly emerged evidence has confirmed the theory that Dupont and Verlon were killed when a kidnapping for ransom went wrong. He also said the investigation was complicated by the fact that Mali's authorities do not control the north of the country and that, although willing to help the investigation, Mali's justice department badly lacks resources.





New requests for the declassification of evidence have meanwhile also been submitted.





Dupont's two computers, a professional one and a personal one, were handed over to the judge for analysis by experts because, according to an investigation by the French TV current affairs programme Envoye Special, someone hacked into Dupont's computer remotely on the day she was murdered.





Dupont's mother said the families have had to wait too long for the truth. "Four years later, we still have no answer. Every evening, my head spins with the craziest scenarios. We need to understand what happened and why they were killed."





Mali is ranked 116th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index.
17 journalists to be tried in Istanbul for "complicity" in coup attempt

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 19 June 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, 17 journalists to be tried in Istanbul for "complicity" in coup attempt, 19 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947d0094.html [accessed 11 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 trial of 17 Turkish journalists accused of complicity in a coup attempt in July 2016 will open in Istanbul on 19 June. Six of them, including Ahmet Altan, Mehmet Altan and Nazl Ilcak, are currently detained. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calls for their immediate release because they are being held for criticizing the government.

According to a 247-page indictment, the 17 reporters and columnists are each facing the possibility of three life sentences plus a 15-year jail term on a range of charges that include trying to "eliminate the government," trying to "destroy constitutional order" and trying to "eliminate parliament".





They are also charged with membership of "the FETO organization," the government's name for the movement led by the US-based Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen that is alleged to have orchestrated the coup attempt.





The prosecutor's office claims that they had advanced warning of the coup and used "subliminal messages" to support it during a broadcast of "Ozgur Dusunce" (Free Thought), a programme on the local TV channel Can Erzincan.





"This trial marks a new level in the growing absurdity of the charges being brought against journalists," RSF said. "We call for the acquittal of these 17 journalists and the immediate release of those being held, who have no place being in prison. It is high time that the Turkish authorities ended their systematic criminalization of critics."





The journalist going on trial on 19 June include such leading media names as Nazl Ilcak et Ahmet Altan, who is being prosecuted along with his brother, Mehmet Altan.





The former editor of the newspaper Taraf, Ahmet Altan is accused inter alia of trying to "pave the way for the coup" by publishing two editorials headlined "Mutlak korku" (Absolute fear) and "Ezip gecmek" (Crush everything in your path) on 12 May 2016 and 27 June 2016 respectively.





Together with the well-known Parisian street artist C215, RSF staged an operation in support of Turkey's imprisoned journalist last month in which stencils were used to paint the faces of ten of the imprisoned journalists across the urban landscape in Paris and outside the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.





Ilcak, the Altan brothers and around 20 other detained Turkish journalists have asked the Strasbourg court to rule on the legality of their detention, which has so far continued for an average of about ten months. At a hearing on 13 June, the court ruled that their cases were admissible and asked Turkey to submit its observations by 4 October.





Ranked 155th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index, Turkey is now the world's biggest prison for professional journalists. The already worrying situation of its media has become critical under the state of emergency proclaimed after the 2016 coup attempt.





Around 150 media have been closed by decree and more than 100 journalists are currently detained. At least 775 press cards have also been rescinded and hundreds of journalists' passports have cancelled without any form of judicial proceedings.
Outspoken blogger stripped of Vietnamese citizenship

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 17 June 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Outspoken blogger stripped of Vietnamese citizenship, 17 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947d0784.html [accessed 11 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.

Pham Minh Hoang, an outspoken blogger, free speech advocate and university academic with French and Vietnamese dual nationality, is facing imminent deportation from the country of his birth because the Vietnamese authorities have stripped him of his Vietnamese nationality.

Hoang, 62, who lives in Ho Chi Minh City, could be deported at any time following a decree by Vietnam's president depriving him of his Vietnamese citizenship on 17 May.





"I don't know what my status is today," Hoang said in an interview for RSF, his voice choked with emotion. Speaking in the low-income neighbourhood where he lives, he said he was still shocked by the president's decision to strip him of his Vietnamese nationality, a measure that he and his lawyer describe as "completely illegal."





"I cannot go out without being conspicuously followed by police officers," he said, explaining that he lives in a state of permanent fear of being bundled onto a plane bound for France.





RSF editor in chief Virginie Dangles said: "It is both unacceptable and illegal to strip one's citizens of their nationality with the sole aim of silencing them. The French authorities must not permit such an expulsion, which is nothing other than way for the Vietnamese authorities to silence a critic."





"I want at all costs to live and die in Vietnam," Hoang told RSF, adding that he wanted not only to stay with his family but also to continue serving his fellow citizens. He blogs under the pseudonym of Phan Kien Quoc.





Hoang said he felt extremely isolated although he has the support of many international human rights groups. "In Vietnam, the party-controlled media don't talk about my case" he said. "Activist friends try to alert social networks but very few people know what is happening to me. I no longer see anyone."





This is not the first time that Hoang, a member of the pro-democracy party Viet Tan, has been subjected to psychological and judicial harassment.





His blog posts about education, the environment and the threats to Vietnamese sovereignty from China led to his being sentenced to 17 months in prison and three years of house arrest in 2011 - a sentence that was reduced thanks to support from human rights defenders and the French government. He and his family were subjected to intimidation attempts again in 2014.





Vietnam has one of the worst scores of any country in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index, in which it is ranked 175th out of 180.
Head of conservative MEPs writes to detained Turkish journalist Sahin Alpay

Publisher Reporters Without Borders Publication Date 16 June 2017 Cite as Reporters Without Borders, Head of conservative MEPs writes to detained Turkish journalist Sahin Alpay, 16 June 2017, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5947d11a4.html [accessed 11 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.

Rounding off a campaign by members of the European Parliament in support of imprisoned Turkish journalists that was proposed by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Manfred Weber, the chair of the European People's Party Group (EPP), wrote today to Sahin Alpay, a journalist held since July 2016.

A newspaper columnist, media commentator and political science professor, Sahin Alpay is the fifth imprisoned journalist to be sent a letter of support from MEPs since April, following Musa Kart, Ahmet Sk, Nazl Ilcak and Kadri Gursel.





The previous letters were sent in turn by members of four other European parliamentary groups - the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D), the Greens-European Free Alliance (Greens-EFA), the European United Left-Nordic Green Left (GUE-NGL) and the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe Group (ALDE).





Read the letter





Held in pre-trial custody since 30 July 2016, Alpay has "celebrated" his 73rd birthday in prison. He worked for the dailies Cumhuriyet and Milliyet before joining the newspaper Zaman as a columnist in 2002 and had been very critical of President Erdogan's government in recent years.





Charged with "praising a terrorist organization" and "legitimizing" the July 2016 coup attempt in the media, he is scheduled to go on trial on 18 September along with 29 other journalists.





The already alarming situation of Turkey's media has become critical under the state of emergency proclaimed after the 2016 coup attempt. The crackdown has reached unprecedented levels and Turkey is now the world's biggest prison for professional journalists, with more than 150 detained.





Around 150 media have been closed by decree, more than 775 press cards have been rescinded since the abortive coup, and the current level of censorship of the Internet and social networks has never been seen before in Turkey, which is ranked 155th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2017 World Press Freedom Index.
New York, NY -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/19/2017 --MYT Works, Inc. has moved their retail office and machine shop to a recently purchased and restored 1924 building at 138 30th Street Brooklyn, NY 11232, between 3rd and 4th Avenues.



MYT Works is happy to join many small and mid-sized businesses that are establishing a hub of innovation, including manufacturing, in and around Industry City. They are also joining well-known companies in the film, video and broadcast production equipment industry such as AbelCine, Adorama and KFX, who are also relocating to Brooklyn this year. The decision to move was based on plans to expand operations. "After six years of growing our business, we decided to bring all our manufacturing in-house. We doubled the size of our machine shop to accommodate new equipment, including a precision hi-end 4 axis CNC mill and a 2-axis lathe," says founder, Etienne Sauret.



The new machine shop is now on a separate floor below offices and a product showroom. In the new space clients can participate in camera movement demonstrations, tour the machine shop and watch how premium camera sliders and skater dollies are made. MYT Works is also designing a communal space in the backyard for film industry networking events.



Located just a few blocks from Industry City, MYT Works is convenient to the 36th Street and 4th Ave subway stop and the new South Brooklyn Ferry stop at Sunset Park Brooklyn Army Terminal at 80 58th Street.



"We look forward to getting to know our neighbors and supporting other Made in New York City businesses," says director, Patricia Rattray.



About MYT Works, Inc

MYT Works, Inc. is a New York based designer and manufacturer of premium camera sliders, skater dollies and tripod heads for professional camera operators and grips founded in 2010. Their registered trademark is Born out of Frustration.  Go to www.MYTWorks.com for more information.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks at a news conference during China's Belt and Road Forum at a conference center north of Beijing, May 15, 2017.

While China promotes its ambitious "Belt and Road" program for investment abroad, it faces increasing signs of economic pressure at home.

Since the country's stronger-than-expected performance in the first quarter, government regulators have taken a series of steps to stave off economic weakening.

In April, the government launched the "harshest crackdown on financial risks in history," according to the official Xinhua news agency.

The reaction to loose lending practices followed warnings on rising debt levels from the International Monetary Fund.

In May, the government struggled to contain damage from a downgrade of China's sovereign debt by Moody's Investors Service after the rating agency concluded that reforms would take a back seat to debt-driven growth.

In recent weeks, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) said it would consider adding a mysterious "counter-cyclical factor" to its exchange rate formula in a move seen as artificially supporting the yuan.

Late last month, the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) also issued new rules against selling large blocks of shares to prevent sudden drops in the stock market.

Last week, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released a mixed picture of the economy through May, with growth in industrial output for the month unchanged from April at 6.5 percent.

The service sector maintained relatively strong growth of 8.1 percent in May from a year before, but investment in the secondary industry, dominated by manufacturing, edged up only 3.6 percent in the first five months.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in China fell 3.7 percent in May, marking the second monthly decline in a row.

Nonfinancial outbound direct investment (ODI) plunged 53 percent in the five-month period, according to the Ministry of Commerce (MOC), as regulators controlled outflows to keep capital from leaving the country.

Official and private Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) readings have straddled the line between expansion and contraction with a Caixin Media manufacturing survey falling below the equilibrium level of 50 to 49.6 in May.

Most signs suggest that the government expects a slowdown in the economy. On June 4, a Xinhua "economic watch" column admitted as much.

"Fresh data showed that despite an overall picture of stabilizing growth, signs of weakening momentum have emerged in the Chinese economy, stoking concerns that the rebound has lost steam and may slip into a hard landing," it said.

Expansionist message

The concern over a possible correction contrasts sharply with the expansionist message sent at China's "Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation" in mid-May, where President Xi Jinping called the initiative "a project of the century."

The forum redoubled China's commitment to its twin "Silk Road Economic Belt" and "21st Century Maritime Silk Road" plans, first announced in 2013.

Xi's push to build infrastructure for trade routes from China to Europe and Africa, entails massive financial commitments of up to U.S. $1 trillion (6.8 trillion yuan) over the long term, according to estimates by Reuters and The New York Times.

"Chinese outbound investment is forecast to total [U.S.] $600 billion to $800 billion [4.1 trillion to 5.4 trillion yuan] over the next five years, a fairly large proportion of which will go into markets related to the Belt and Road Initiative," said Ning Jizhe, vice minister of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) planning agency in a summit preview.

Last year, China's non-financial direct investment in the economies of countries on Belt and Road routes totaled U.S. $14.5 billion (98.6 billion yuan), accounting for 8.5 percent of ODI, the official English-language China Daily reported.

Totals depend on what kinds of investment and how many countries are included. The China Global Investment Tracker compiled by the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute (AEI) counted U.S. $86 billion (584.4 billion yuan) of investments in 64 Belt and Road countries from 2014 to 2016.

China invested U.S. $51.1 billion (347.5 billion yuan) in Belt and Road countries from autumn 2013 to July 2016, accounting for 12 percent of total ODI, according to another Xinhua report.

In the first four months of this year, China's ODI in 45 countries related to the initiative reached U.S. $3.98 billion (27.0 billion yuan), the MOC said.

Yet, among the 29 heads of state and government leaders who attended the forum, there appeared to be little regard for the discrepancy between China's foreign commitments and its economic concerns at home.

Although analysts say it is too soon to see an effect on China's highly-publicized commitments to the initiative, known alternately as "One Belt, One Road" (OBOR), an impact could develop if economic troubles continue.

"If wealth does not start to expand again, China will face spending choices, perhaps impinging on OBOR," said the China Global Investment Tracker.

Leaders attend a roundtable session during China's Belt and Road Forum at a conference center north of Beijing, May 15, 2017. Credit: AFP Financed by private funds

AEI resident scholar Derek Scissors said the concern is not for commitments that China has already made, but rather for the expectation of massive investments to come.

"China will largely carry out the actual agreements it makes," Scissors said in an email message. "It will simply not sign agreements in anything near the value being touted by some."

Scott Kennedy, deputy director of China studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said China has the capital to back up its commitments, despite the signs of weakening.

"Short of a financial crisis, China has the resources to pursue the Belt and Road and other external initiatives, such as acquiring advanced technology through corporate acquisitions," he said.

"In any case, most of the Belt and Road projects will be financed by private funds from China and many other countries, not the Chinese fiscal budget or its state banks," Kennedy said.

A book published this month by the Seattle-based National Bureau of Asian Research highlights the importance of Belt and Road as "Xi's signature concept."

It "can best be understood as an attempt to set the direction for China to achieve its ambitions as a preponderant regional power, in the context of mounting challenges in both the economic and strategic domains," wrote senior fellow Nadege Rolland in China's Eurasian Century? Political and Strategic Implications of the Belt and Road Initiative.

But AEI makes the case that OBOR relies heavily on construction contracts, most of which have been awarded to state-owned enterprises (SOEs). These, in turn, depend on bank loans, which may add to China's debt problem.

China has won contracts for U.S. $135 billion (917.4 billion yuan) in construction projects under the initiative so far, according to AEI.

The MOC claims that China has signed contracts valued at U.S. $304.9 billion (2.1 trillion yuan) on Belt and Road routes between 2014 and 2016.

Either way, the overseas projects seem likely to spur SOE demands for finance.

"Of course, SOEs do not magically become efficient when they head overseas. In fact, operating overseas in developing countries is typically more challenging for SOEs," AEI said.

Manageable pledges

So far, China's new direct pledges made at the Belt and Road forum appear manageable. These consist largely of an additional 100-billion yuan (U.S. $14.7-billion) contribution announced by President Xi to the country's Silk Road Fund.

But Xi said China will also "encourage" its financial institutions to conduct overseas fund business in the amount of "about 300 billion yuan (U.S. $44.1 billion)," Xinhua reported without specifying a time frame.

China Development Bank will set up a special lending facility valued at 250 billion yuan (U.S. $36.8 billion), while China Exim Bank will provide similar financing of 130 billion yuan (U.S. $19.1 billion), Xi said.

The mounting totals are impressive, but they are also reminiscent of world reactions to China's previous "go out" initiative for overseas investment in the oil industry 20 years ago.

Then as now, China made huge bids for foreign projects with numbers that now seem small by today's standards, promising to invest U.S. $9.5 billion (64.5 billion yuan) in oilfields and infrastructure in neighboring Kazakhstan.

The plans were withdrawn or delayed for years by the Asian currency crisis, but in the meantime, other investors were scared out of the market by China's high bids.

China appears better prepared to pursue foreign ventures in the midst of an economic downturn this time. But if conditions worsen, China could again put its ambitions on hold.
A Cambodian human rights worker held for over a year in Phnom Penhs Prey Sar Prison collapsed on Sunday in a prison restroom, with prison authorities later offering conflicting accounts of who had provided him with medical treatment.



Ny Sokha, one of a group of four ADHOC activists and an election official held in a case of alleged bribery widely seen as targeting Cambodias political opposition, was stricken with diarrhea on June 18 and was examined by doctors sent by the rights group Licadho, prison spokesperson Nuth Savana said.



He amended his statement next day, however, saying that Ny Sokhas jailers had misinformed him, and that the detained rights worker had been seen instead by prison physicians.



Speaking to RFAs Khmer Service, Ny Sokhas younger brother Ny Lyheng said on Monday that he visited Ny Sokha the day after his collapse, and that his brothers face was pale and hands were shaking from the effect of serum injections given by his doctors.



I met with him this morning, Ny Lyheng told RFA. He had passed out in the prison restroom for a while before being rescued by other inmates.



Though Ny Sokha had been quickly attended to by prison physicians, Ny Lyheng said, he is concerned that his brothers condition may be beyond the ability of the prisons doctors to treat.



Ny Sokhas lawyer Lor Chunthy meanwhile said that after seeing his clients condition, his legal team will file a petition with the Phnom Penh Municipal Court judge handling the case to allow Ny Sokha to receive treatment outside the prison.



We will have a meeting tomorrow, and after this we will file our petition [with the court], Lor Chunthy told RFA.



'Part of a campaign'



Also speaking to RFA, Am Sam Ath, head of investigations for the Cambodian rights group Licadho, said that the judge handling Ny Sokhas case has refused permission for Licadho doctors to examine the detained rights worker or other members of his group.



We cannot provide a final diagnosis of his condition because Licadhos physicians are not allowed access to him, he said.



Already held at Prey Sar for 12 months for investigation of their case, the group now known as the ADHOC Five were told in March that their period of pre-trial detention would be extended for a further six months.



Rights group Human Rights Watch slammed the groups continued detention, calling the courts move part of a campaign to destroy [Cambodias political opposition] and scare Cambodian rights workers into silence.



The wife of opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party member Chao Veasna, elected to a commune post in June 4 and detained in a separate case, meanwhile pleaded with authorities to provide her husband with competent care before returning him to prison from a hospital, where he is being treated for gallstones and liver disease.



I want them to provide medical treatment for my husband so that he gets some relief before sending him back, Chao Veasnas wife Vong Kimhong said.



But the prison department is too strict. I dont know how to help him, she said.



Reported by Vuthy Tha for RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Sovannarith Keo. Written in English by Richard Finney.




Chinese authorities in the northern region of Inner Mongolia are holding nine people after deploying police and tear gas to crack down on protests over access to land and water on Lake Dalinur at the weekend, local residents told RFA on Monday.



Ethnic Mongolian herding communities on the banks of the lake in the region's Heshigten Banner faced off with police on the shores of the huge freshwater lake on Sunday, video of the earlier stages of the incident showed.



Later, local police fired tear gas in the ensuing clashes, local residents said.



"They detained nine people, and we don't know where they are holding them," one local herder said. "There are more people gathering [now] to go to demand their release from the local government or at the police station."



A second resident said local herders are angry because the authorities have fenced off the banks of the lake.



"The herders on the shores of the lake rely on the grasslands and the water for their livelihoods," the resident said. "But in recent years, the government has been forcibly fencing off the lake and grasslands, with the excuse that they have signed contracts with fish-farms from elsewhere in China."



"So the herders wanted to protect the grassland, but the police came, and there were clashes. They sent more than 30 police vehicles," he said.



The first resident said fish from the lake are at a premium in today's China.



"Dalinur Lake is one of the four major freshwater lakes in Inner Mongolia. It is in Heshigten Banner, near Chifeng city," he said. "The fish from this lake are very famous. There are fishing rights that have been handed over to Han Chinese."



He added: "Every year, the lake just keeps getting smaller, and the grass is growing on the banks [where the water used to be]. Ethnic Mongolians are losing grazing rights to a lot of grassland across the region, and they wanted to make use of the grassland by the lake."



Growing dispute



The dispute has been escalating since the first Han Chinese migrants were handed fishing rights in the lake by the local government, sources said.



Local herders have sued the government, and a local court has ordered the fencing to be taken down, but the ruling hasn't been implemented, they said.



Calls to the Heshigten Banner People's Court rang unanswered during office hours on Monday.



Ethnic Mongolian rights activist Hada, who has visited the region, said the courts are likely to be part of the problem.



"The large numbers of Han Chinese from the fish-farms are all in cahoots with the courts, and have stripped local herders of their rights to use the water," Hada said.



"My understanding is that a huge group of Han Chinese gathered on the shores of the Dalinur Lake, and when the herders found out about it, they went there to resist them [and] around 10 people were detained."



"This is blatant racial discrimination and persecution, and I strongly condemn these acts of violence."



Grab for resources



Germany-based Mongolian dissident Xi Haiming said local officials, predominantly Han Chinese, are conspiring with migrants from elsewhere in China to make a grab for the region's natural resources.



"The [ruling] Chinese Communist Party is protecting the rights and interests of Han Chinese people, so they have taken over a lot of land and resources in Inner Mongolia," Xi said. "Ethnic Mongolians need to find a way to protect themselves."



Calls to the Heshigten Banner government offices rang unanswered during office hours on Monday. An official who answered the phone at the banner police department declined to comment, saying she wasn't the duty official. She refused to provide the 24-hour duty phone number, however.



Ethnic Mongolians, who make up almost 20 percent of Inner Mongolia's population of 23 million, increasingly complain of widespread environmental destruction and unfair development policies in the region.



Clashes between Chinese state-backed mining or forestry companies and herding communities are common in the region, which borders the independent country of Mongolia.



Reported by Wong Siu-san and Wong Si-man for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Qiao Long for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.




A truck leaving the Kaesong joint industrial zone is inspected at a customs checkpoint at an immigration center near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North and South Korea in Paju, Feb. 11, 2016.

North Korean executives are driving up demand for products made in rival South Korea and selling them to the regimes high-ranking officers, despite an order by the Norths leader Kim Jong Un for citizens to buy only domestically manufactured goods, sources with knowledge of the situation said.

People who work in upper management positions at North Korea's foreign currency-generating firms, such as cross-border traders, are smuggling in South Korean consumer products to sell to high-ranking officers in the Korean Workers Party in the capital Pyongyang, the sources said.

Some North Koreans covet cosmetics, electronics, and other items made in South Korea, seeing them as financial status symbols.

Demand for South Korean products is constantly increasing among high-ranking officials in North Korea, said a Korean-Chinese source from Dandong in northeastern Chinas Liaoning province.

Executives at foreign currency-generating organizations have recently come to China to purchase South Korean-made products to smuggle back home after replacing South Korean product labels with Chinese labels, he told RFAs Korean Service.

North Korean executives of foreign currency-generating enterprises in China often have Korean-Chinese people as middlemen to procure South Korean products, he said.

North Korean travelers to China, whether the purpose of their trip is personal or business, buy the South Korean products, the source said, adding that the goods can be in small quantities or in bulk.

Any individuals or companies that engage in trade that want to take South Korean goods into North Korea should replace the exterior packaging to disguise them as Chinese products, he said.

The punishment for those caught smuggling in products manufactured in the South is usually a fine, but they often can get off by paying a bribe to the authorities.

After the United Nations imposed new sanctions on North Korea in March as punishment for conducting nuclear tests and missile launches, Kim Jong Un issued a statement ordering citizens to cope with the sanctions by becoming strong through their own efforts, which included buying domestically made goods.

The UN Security Council expanded targeted sanctions against North Korea in early June in response to Pyongyangs continued missile tests.

People who use South Korean-made goods are traitors, the source said.

Kim Jong Un patriotism

Since the new sanctions took effect, state-controlled North Korean media have been promoting Kim Jong Un patriotism to encourage the use of home-grown products.

So far, North Koreans who have the foreign currency necessary to purchase goods manufactured in the South are not buying into the patriotism campaign.

North Korean foreign currency-generating businesses are devoting all their energy to securing South Korean products to satisfy Pyongyangs high-ranking officials, said a Korean-Chinese source from Shenyang in Liaoning province.

The main items that those who work in foreign currency-generating enterprises are seeking are South Korean home appliances and expensive cosmetics, said the source who declined to give his name.

Unlike general home appliances, no [foreign] cosmetic products are allowed to pass through customs in China, he said.

To pass the inspections at customs, North Korean foreign currency-generating firms replace labels on South Korean goods, such as cosmetic products, with Chinese labels, the source said.

Those who work for North Korean businesses will say anything to get a discount on products when they sign merchandise purchase agreements, he said.

It is not certain where the money is coming from, but when they purchase South Korean products they look for the most luxurious and expensive products, he said.

An executive officer from one of Pyongyangs foreign currency-generating businesses whom the source said he knows returned to North Korea with six containers of South Korean pre-mixed instant coffee, feminine hygiene products, and cosmetics.

I assume those items would be worth much more than hundreds or thousands of U.S. dollars, he said.

About 125 small and medium-sized South Korean firms formerly manufactured a wide range of products, including rice cookers, watches, clothing, and electronics with cheap North Korean labor at the Kaesong joint industrial complex several miles north of the heavily armed border that has separated the two Koreas for nearly 64 years.

Though the goods produced there were shipped back to South Korea or exported to other countries, the industrial park served as a vital source of income for the cash-strapped isolated North.

The South Korean government ordered Kaesong to be shut down in February 2016 in retaliation for a rocket launch and nuclear test by the North and to prevent the regime from using hard currency earned through the venture to fund its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Reported by Jieun Kim for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
Chinese authorities in the northwestern region of Xinjiang have detained around 10 ethnic minority Kazakhs for "having close ties" with a group of Muslim ethnic minority Uyghurs, local sources told RFA.



The Kazakhs were detained on June 10 by the Dushanzi district state security police in Xinjiang's Karamay city, a local resident said, naming two detainees as Halibyat Baimullah, 47, and Kanjitai Dushan, 49.



They were accused of cultivating "close ties" with a group of Muslim Uyghurs for prayer, the source said.



"The police detained a lot of people; a whole minibus was completely full," the source told RFA in a recent interview.



The source said the accusations against the men made him angry.



"They were like, why are you on such good terms with the Uyghurs," he said. "They have been watching very closely lately, at any rate."



He said the authorities have imposed strict controls on Muslims in Xinjiang during the traditional Ramadan month of dawn-to-dusk fasting.



"When it gets to be lunchtime during Ramadan, they get all of the Muslim employees together in their workplace and force them to eat," the source said. "But Muslims aren't supposed to eat lunch during Ramadan."



Travel restrictions



China's Kazakh ethnic minority, many of whom are Muslims, have recently been targeted in a similar manner to the mostly Muslim Uyghur ethnic group, with a slew of restrictions preventing them from moving freely between China and neighboring Kazakhstan, regional sources have told RFA.



Last week, authorities in the regional capital Urumqi forced ethnic minority state employees and members of the ruling Chinese Communist Party to swear a mass oath of loyalty, state media reported on June 14.



State employees and party officials are banned from any form of religious belief under the atheist Communist Party, and have previously reported being forced to eat during Ramadan to confirm their loyalty to Beijing.



The oath ceremony also included hymns of praise to the ruling party, including the singing of the Mao-era revolutionary anthem "Without the Communist Party, there would be no new China."



The crackdown on Ramadan comes amid ever-tightening surveillance and "stability maintenance" operations targeting Kazakhs as well as Uyghurs.



Earlier this year, a prominent Kazakh imam known as Okan was jailed for 10 years by a court in Habahe county, Altay (Aletai) Prefecture, for performing traditional funeral prayers in accordance with Islamic customs, while a Kazakh imam died in police custody in Xinjiang's Sanji (Changji) Hui Autonomous Prefecture, in what police called a "suicide."



'Extremist speech'



Many of the religious restrictions imposed for many years on Xinjiang's Uyghur population have now been applied to Kazakhs, too, according to members of the ethnic group in China and Kazakhstan, with the authorities criminalizing formulaic exchanges of blessings using traditional Islamic phrases in the Kazakh language.



In February, authorities in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture near the border with Kazakhstan detained and secretly sentenced a Kazakh man, Yeshat, 22, in connection with his posts to the popular WeChat messaging app.



Yeshat was accused of spreading "separatist extremist speech and extremist religious ideas and other information" from his WeChat account. Media reports at the time said he had "confessed" to the charges against him and to his "mistakes."



A Kazakh source said he was jailed for 10 years by authorities in Ili's Emin county in a secret trial, and denied contact with a lawyer or his family.



Repeated calls to the Emin County People's Court rang unanswered during office hours last week.



Residence cards returned



In a related development, authorities in Arahak township near Xinjiang's Altay city began handing back permanent residence cards issued by the government of Kazakhstan to ethnic Kazakhs holding Chinese passports after ordering them to hand them in to police, a Kazakhstan resident told RFA.



"I think the authorities were afraid after you reported this in Chinese, because it was a breach of international law, and other laws," the resident said. "I think this led to an international backlash, and they got worried."



"They have been working round the clock to give back all of the Kazakh green cards," he said.



Reported by Qiao Long for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.




CoStar Groups Cessna Grand Caravan C208 can be seen cruising at about 138 mph above one of the companys nearly 200 market cities on any given day.

However, the plane isnt used for pleasure. CoStar takes to the skies to collect data on commercial real estate properties and apartments, and that information is loaded into the companys database for subscribers to use.

The research plane, which soared above Richmond last week, is an important high-tech and expensive tool for CoStar Group Inc., the Washington, D.C.-based commercial real estate research company that has moved its research operations to downtown Richmond.

The cost of operating the research plane totals nearly $1 million every year, but CoStar believes the investment is worth the expense. CoStar, which boasts the largest commercial real estate database in the country, said it is the only firm to use a plane to collect data.

The aerial research photographer aboard the plane takes pictures of every commercial real estate development in a market area, including apartments and other multifamily projects. Schools and single-family homes are not included in the database.

Amber Surrency, one of CoStars two aerial research photographers who is a former senior intelligence analyst for the U.S. Marines, returned to Richmond last week to update CoStars database of properties here.

Theres a little bit more going on this time, Surrency said about the real estate activity she saw Monday while photographing parts of the Richmond region compared with her previous visits.

On one of her trips Monday, for instance, the plane circled multiple times around downtown Richmond and then soared over Stony Point Fashion Park. It headed to the Short Pump area of western Henrico County, where the plane made a couple of loops around that fast-growing area, and then to the Richmond International Raceway before heading back to Richmond International Airport. Ben Hursa and Mark Beauchamp piloted the plane.

CoStar began aerially photographing its first market  Las Vegas  in June 2015. Since then, the plane has visited 224 markets, some of which are repeats, and has flown 290,000 miles.

The markets are revisited for database updating about every 10 months. The CoStar plane first flew over the Richmond area in July 2015, then again in May 2016, prior to last weeks visit.

The CoStar plane, acquired in late 2014, flies about 138 mph at 2,500 feet above the ground. At this speed and altitude, it is ideal for taking photos and videos of properties.

Taking photos and doing research from the air has many advantages when compared to documenting new real estate developments from the ground, Surrency said.

When collecting data from a plane, the camera can see more of what a car might not be able to, Surrency said.

Driving down every street in a market searching for new commercial real estate developments could take weeks, or even months, to complete depending upon the market.

Thats exactly how CoStar gathered all of its information before buying the plane. The company still has a fleet of more than 200 vehicles that canvass markets to update the companys database.

But from the air, documenting is more efficient, according to Surrency, taking just a day or two to canvas an area the size of the Richmond region, or a week to fly over a larger markets, such as Dallas or Atlanta.

Many times, construction sites are hidden behind fences, thus limiting what information can be gathered from the road at ground-level.

But thats not the case from the skies, where planes can fly over properties and check out and focus on any plot of dirt with construction equipment, Surrency said.

This process expedites our site inspections, verifying the progress of current construction projects and identifying new construction that may not already be in CoStars database, said Lisa Ruggles, CoStars senior vice president of global research, referring to the research conducted from the plane.

CoStar Group is the only information provider with this resource giving us an advantage in data quality, Ruggles said. We have captured data and aerial images on half a billion square feet of construction projects and added 5,000 new construction projects to our database.

CoStars plane flies every day except during inclement weather or airplane repairs. Two crews, consisting of two pilots and one aerial photographer, rotate plane operations every 10 days.

The Red Epic Dragon 5K camera, mounted on the underside of the plane, is the same model once used to gather information for the military in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The planes camera moves 360 degrees and the exposure can be adjusted by the photographer while the camera is in use.

Most days, Surrency records images of 70 new buildings, construction sites and other properties during the course of seven to eight hours of flight time.

During flight, Surrency sits in front of an electronic interactive map  which is connected to the camera  that shows CoStars known data points in real time as the plane flies overhead. Data are collected based on sites already in its database as well as new sites found during flights.

The photographer can add additional data points in-flight for researchers on the ground to look into further.

Addresses of work sites already known to CoStar appear in green on the electronic map. Sites such as schools and hospitals appear in purple. Additional destinations found during a flight appear in red. The track flown by the plane that day appears in blue.

The camera shoots only video. Still photos are extracted from those videos after each flight.

Processing images after a day of flying can take upwards of three hours, Surrency said.

Researchers at CoStars global research headquarters in Richmond then label, edit and upload images to its database for subscribers to view.

The offices, on the top four floors of the WestRock building at 501 S. 5th St., has about 595 employees. When the company announced in October that it was moving its research center to Richmond, the company said then that it planned to employ as many as 730 workers here.

Researchers receive data from the flights once the plane has landed, then search for more information about the sites. They collect information such as who is building a property, when it is expected to be completed and what is being constructed.

Data are loaded into the CoStar database, then released to subscribers.

CoStars subscribers typically include property managers and real estate brokers. One such subscriber is Henrico-based commercial real estate brokerage Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer.
Richmond police on Monday said that Kathryn I. Brady, who hadn't been seen in nearly a year, has been found.

Due to an overwhelming response from the community, Kathryn Brady has been located and is safe. Thank you everyone who provided information which led us to Ms. Brady, wrote Detective W.E. Thompson in a news release.

Earlier story: Richmond police are requesting the publics help in finding a missing woman who may often stay in homeless encampments in the city.

Kathryn I. Brady, 60, who was last seen nearly a year ago, was described as a white female with short blond hair, about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 200 pounds, police said.

A family member said Brady was last seen June 26, 2016, near Seventh and Hospital streets in the wood line. VCU Police had their last contact with Brady on July 29, 2016.

Richmond police said Brady may go by the alias Kathryn B. Gafvert-Wehrfritz.
MONDAY

The Richmond Planning Commission will meet at 1:30 p.m. in the conference room on the fifth floor of City Hall, 900 E. Broad St.

The Richmond School Board will meet at 6 p.m. in the 17th-floor meeting room of City Hall, 301 N. Ninth St.

Members of the Petersburg City Council and the citys Adhoc Water and Sewer Committee will meet at 6:30 p.m. in the Multimodal Transit Station, 100 W. Washington St.

The Prince George County Planning Commission will hold a work session at 6:30 p.m., 6602 Courts Drive.

TUESDAY

The Dinwiddie County Board of Supervisors will meet at 3 p.m., 14016 Boydton Plank Road.

The Petersburg City Council will hold a work session at 5:15 p.m., followed by a regular meeting at 6:30, both in the Union Train Station, 103 River St.

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission will meet at 6 p.m., 10001 Iron Bridge Road.

The Ashland Town Council will meet in closed session at 6 p.m. at Town Hall, 101 Thompson St., to discuss and consider the appointment of a member to the Town Council and to discuss appointments to the Planning Commission; the council will have its regular meeting at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.

The Colonial Heights City Council will meet at 6 p.m., 201 James Ave.

WEDNESDAY

The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authoritys Board of Commissioners will meet at 5:30 p.m. in the Calhoun Center, 436 Calhoun St.

THURSDAY

The Hopewell School Board will meet at 5:30 p.m., 103 N. 12th Ave.

The Prince George County Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m., 6602 Courts Drive.

FRIDAY
One person was killed and three people were injured, two seriously, in a two-vehicle crash Thursday on Interstate 295 near the U.S. 301 exit in Hanover County, state police said.

The crash occurred about 11:20 a.m. when a northbound Ford Escape either stopped or slowed for traffic and was struck from behind by a Jeep about one-tenth of a mile north of U.S. 301, state police said.

The driver of the Ford, Rex E. Beebe, 59, of Savona, N.Y., died at VCU Medical Center.

A 14-year-old girl who was a passenger in the Ford suffered life-threatening injuries, and another young passenger in the Ford, a 7-year-old girl, suffered serious injuries. The driver of the Jeep was taken to a hospital with injuries not considered to be life-threatening, police said.

Police on Monday said the had no updated information on the condition of the passengers.
Police in Northern Virginia found remains Sunday thought to be those of a missing Reston teenager who they say was assaulted and disappeared overnight after leaving a mosque in the Sterling area, and a 22-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with the case.

The mosque, the All Dulles Area Muslim Society in Sterling, and relatives identified the girl as 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen of Reston.

Fairfax County police identified the man charged with murder in her death as Darwin Martinez Torres of Sterling.

According to accounts from police and a mosque official, a group of four or five teens were walking back from breakfast at IHOP early Sunday when they were confronted by a motorist. All but one of the teens ran to the mosque, where the group reported that the girl had been left behind, according to a spokeswoman for the Loudoun County Sheriffs Office.

Immediately thereafter, the ADAMS personnel notified both Loudoun County and Fairfax County authorities, who immediately began an extensive search to locate the missing girl, the mosque said in a statement.

Loudoun and Fairfax police jointly conducted an hourslong search around Dranesville Road and Woodson Drive in Herndon, which is in Fairfax. Remains thought to be the girls were found about 3 p.m. Sunday in a pond in the 21500 block of Ridgetop Circle in Sterling.

During the search, an officer spotted a motorist driving suspiciously in the area and arrested Torres, police said.

Police said they collected several articles of evidence but declined to provide further details. The girls mother said detectives told her that Nabra was struck with a metal bat.

I cant think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Fathers Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself, Loudoun Sheriff Michael L. Chapman said.

A possible hate-crime motivation is among the things authorities are investigating, police said. Detectives think the remains are the girl's, but the chief medical examiners office will confirm the identity and manner of death, a Fairfax police spokeswoman said.

Shoyeb Hassan, co-chair of ADAMS, said that during the final 10 days of Ramadan, the mosque has extra prayers at midnight and 2 a.m., and members frequently go to McDonalds or the 24-hour IHOP to eat before they start their fast at sunrise, as Nabra and her friends were doing.

The killing rattled a Muslim community in the midst of celebrating Ramadan, a month of religious observance in which adherents fast from sunrise to sunset for 30 days. The period culminates in the feastlike celebration Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall next weekend.

We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event, said Rizwan Jaka, chairman of ADAMS. It is a time for us to come together to pray and care for our youth.

ADAMS is Northern Virginias largest mosque, and with 11 chapters around Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia is among the nations most well-known congregations. According to ADAMS website, the Sterling location is 25,000 square feet and can accommodate more than 700 people. It includes a youth weekend school, a gymnasium and multipurpose hall, the site says.

Arsalan Iftikhar, an international human rights lawyer and commentator, said that he and his wife were at the mosque for evening prayers, which ended about 12:30 a.m. Sunday. He said that as they were pulling out of the parking lot, he saw a group of teenagers congregating and talking loudly about going out to eat. The girls, he said, were wearing the abaya, a full-length dress many Muslim women wear.

Police have not said that the slaying was a hate crime, but the issue was on the minds of many Muslims.

The ADAMS Center has a paid armed security guard at the Sterling site, according to Iftikhar. He said many mosques have increased security since six Muslim worshippers were killed at a mosque in Quebec earlier this year.

Nabras slaying sent a chill through the community when news spread Sunday.

People are petrified, especially people who have young Muslim daughters, Iftikhar said.

Virginia officials condemned the killing Sunday night and expressed condolences to Nabras family.

Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam, the Democratic nominee for governor, said he and his wife were deeply disturbed by the crime.

There is absolutely no place for this kind of violence in our commonwealth, Northam said in a statement. Every Virginian should feel safe and welcome in our communities, and no parent should ever have to experience such a heartbreaking tragedy. As the police investigation continues, I urge all Virginians to keep Nabras friends and family in their hearts.

Attorney General Mark R. Herring echoed Northam, urging Virginians to show compassion and kindness.

The ADAMS Center has always welcomed me and so many in Northern Virginia like family, Herring said. This unspeakable attack feels like an assault on our entire community. Words fail at a time like this, so well all have to do the best we can to surround them with the love and support theyve always shown each of us.

On a crowdfunding page to support Nabras family, donations surged Sunday night, jumping from $10,000 to nearly $18,000 in less than an hour. Shortly before 10 p.m., the fundraising page had met its $25,000 goal.

In a neighborhood full of Muslim immigrant families, the Hassanens modest Reston apartment was the one overflowing with friends and laughter most days, friends said Sunday.

Its a family where if youre feeling down and you need to laugh, this is where you go, said Samar Ali, 26, who grew up in the Hassanens apartment complex.

On Sunday night, that apartment normally filled with laughter was crammed with more than 30 women in traditional Muslim garb, sobbing and comforting each other. At the center of the crowded, dimly lit living room was Nabras mother, Sawsan Gazzar.

Please pray for me, please pray for me, Gazzar sobbed in Arabic. Her phone rang constantly. To her brother and sister in her native Egypt, she said: Pray for me that I can handle this. ... I lost my daughter, my first reason for happiness.

The night before, Gazzar had cooked a feast for Nabra, the oldest of her four daughters, who wanted to host a big iftar break-the-fast dinner for all her friends from ADAMS and South Lakes High School, where she just finished 10th grade.

The iftar was packed  Nabra was always popular and sociable. And when it ended, a friends mom drove some of the teens to ADAMS for the midnight prayers that mark the final 10 days of Ramadan. Nabra wasnt ordinarily religiously observant  she was more excited about fashion and makeup, including recently her nose ring  but she frequented the mosque during Ramadan, when it became a social hub for teens.

Gazzar said she thought Nabra and her friends would eat at the mosque after the prayers, and she would have forbidden her from walking to IHOP in the middle of the night. But she also wasnt surprised that the girl went out; she and other teens had done it safely last year.

Other mothers in the apartment Sunday night echoed the same thought repeatedly  they and their children had always felt safe taking the sidewalk path to IHOP or McDonalds for a fun meal on those final Ramadan nights.

Gazzar loaned her daughter an abaya to wear to the mosque Saturday night, since Nabra didnt typically wear traditional Muslim clothes. She heard from a detective that when the man in the car started shouting at the teens, Nabra tripped over the long garment and fell to the ground, just before she was struck.

I think it had to do with the way she was dressed and the fact that shes Muslim, Gazzar said. Why would you kill a kid? What did my daughter do to deserve this?

Nabra was a diligent student, so much so that although she was extremely proud to get her first job ever at a McDonalds, she quit when her manager didnt understand that studying for a school exam took priority over a work shift.

All four Hassanen girls were born in the United States  the younger ones are 11, 10 and 3. Ali described Nabra as a daddys girl who was close with her father, a bus and limo driver. Her father spent Sunday at the mosque, Ali said, beside himself with worry all day.

Gazzars phone rang yet again, and this time she didnt answer. She turned instead to the hundreds of photos stored on it, scrolling through them until she landed on one of Nabra visiting her parents homeland in Egypt, laughing as she embraced two of the teens little sisters.

Theyd all be laughing. They used to be really happy.
From time to time judges impose gag rules. They order participants not to talk about trials that involve themselves. Judges do not give running accounts of what occurs in courtrooms, either. They do not publicly criticize the prosecution or the defense  unless they warn the respective counsels of inappropriate conduct. And while the state legislature names Virginias judges in a system affected by partisanship, judges refrain from partisan activity. They do not endorse candidates or promote platforms. They do not need to stay mute, however.

A situation in Augusta County is testing the boundaries of judicial speech. On June 8, the Virginia Supreme Court heard arguments regarding complaints that two retired judges engaged in inappropriate political meddling. The Virginia Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission (VJIRC) says two retired judges should not have publicly opposed a proposal to move the county courthouse from Staunton to the county itself. VJIRC argues that the judges should be censured. Other penalties could include removal or barring them from trying cases, as retired judges sometimes do.

The case looks like a slam-dunk to us. The judges did nothing wrong; they did not violate judicial ethics. They spoke about questions relating to the efficient operating of the courts. They neither endorsed individuals running for elective office nor took stands on public policy. They expressed their opinions on matters related solely to the operation of the courts.
Two severe storms brought heavy rain and strong gusts to the Richmond metro area on Monday evening, but the severe weather threat is now over.

8:30 p.m. forecast:

A broad line of rain and storms is slowly moving from west to east through Richmond and Central Virginia.

Rain will continue in the Richmond area for at least another hour, but the potential for severe wind is over in the metro. Storms with strong gusts will still be possible for areas south of U.S. Highway 460 until around 10:00 p.m.

As of 8:30 p.m., rainfall totals range from 0.5 inches to 2 inches for most of the metro area.

The heavy rain may cause some water to temporarily fill creeks and cover low-lying areas, especially in locations that already got heavy rain over the weekend.

The most intense rain is over, however.

The rain showers will clear out late in the evening and the weather should be quiet overnight.

Reports:

The first severe thunderstorm to hit the metro area moved from southwest to northeast between 5:30 and 6:15 p.m.

The gusts brought down trees and power lines between Pocahontas State Park and the Falling Creek area of Chesterfield County. Then, a tree fell near the intersection of Floyd Avenue and Thompson Street in Richmond, according to the National Weather Service.

At 6:30 p.m., Dominion Energy reported 15,037 customers without power in the Richmond metro area, mainly along and east of Interstate 95.

The second severe storm moved into the metro area from the west shortly after 7:00 p.m.

By 7:40 p.m., Dominion Energy had restored some of the first storm's outages, but the number rose to 16,697 customers due to the second round of wind gusts.

By 8:30 p.m., the outage number dropped below 9,000 customers.
Hundreds of people gathered on Percivals Island Saturday morning to send off more than 20 flat-bottomed boats for the 32nd annual James River Batteau Festival.

Hours before the launch at the downtown riverfront, Capt. Lisa Barbieri-OSullivan and her 12-member crew were prepping the Clifton Lee while docked near Riversedge Park in Amherst County.

Named after her father, Clifton Lee Barbieri, who died in 2004, the 40-foot-long boat was dredged up from a Fluvanna County pond three days earlier, Barbieri-OSullivan said.

Crew members, who were finishing each others sentences Saturday morning, attended to the crafts needs as they worked to prep for the trip downriver.

It has to be soaked all the time its not docked, Barbieri-OSullivan said.

Think of an oak barrel, crew member Renee Zinn said. How it swells up and seals itself. The boats similar to an oak barrel.  If you have an oak barrel that dries out 

The boards will start to crack and youll get a lot more leaks, crew member Betsy Trice chimed in. So we actually sink it in a pond  to keep the boards swelled up.

Barbieri-OSullivan said construction on the white oak boat began on Feb. 12, 2013, and ended on May 21 of that same year.

Then we put it in the pond at Orapax Hunting Preserve [in Goochland County] and let it soak for two weeks, she said. And then the festival was on.

Back on land near Percivals Island, Salem-based band The McKenzies played with Amherst local Jim Robertson. Near the railroad tracks, attendees lined up in front of food trucks before making their way down the line of tents displaying items ranging from shirts to soaps.

Children yelled near a petting zoo as a miniature horse roughhoused with a mule, while a dairy cow sat off to the side avoiding the conflict and eating grass.

Back in the water, batteau crews were beginning to relax, having finished preparing for the long trek downriver.

Like so many members of the batteau crews, Barbieri-OSullivan has become a veteran of the annual journey to just outside of Richmond, having been a part of the festival for the past 30 years.

She said she built the boat for two reasons: to have a passion project and to remember her father.

I decided to build the boat in 2012.  I named the boat after my dad because he used to come with us on the festival, she said, fighting tears. He never floated the boat but I named it Clifton Lee.

I love history, I love the festival, I love the people we meet along the way. Its really like a culture. Its not like anything else you can do.

Trice, of Goochland County, said this is her sixth year in the festival, and fifth as a member of the Clifton Lee crew.

Its just fun, she said. Being on the water and just living outside for a week. Going over the rapids and the rocks, the adrenaline? Thats really exciting, so I kind of live for that part.

However, she said the most important aspect of the festival is the camaraderie.

You have to have really good dynamics or else spending a week on the river  Trice shook her head and trailed off. Also communicating when something happens, everyone working together.  Weve got really good dynamics; weve got a cool crew.

Barbieri-OSullivan said the festival is a great team-building experience.

We all come from different backgrounds, political ideologies and everything, she said. And to know that we can come together to make this a successful and fun and funny trip, it just warms my heart.

The eight-day, seven-night adventure will span 120 miles to Maidens Landing just outside of Richmond, echoing years past when the James River was used as the main highway for transporting goods, festival emcee Jeff Taylor said.

The historic significance of the festival influenced more than the boats path on Saturday. Batteaux propelled with long poles pushing against the riverbed held crews decked out in period-appropriate clothing. Those crews had built their boats after guidelines from the 1700s, forgoing most modern items.

Theres old-style nails and theres no caulk, you know, said Trice, who was part of the crew that built the Clifton Lee. You actually put in oakum between the boards  its hemp soaked in pine tar  and you bash that in between the seams so when the boards swell, it squishes it and thats what seals it.

So you try to use period-appropriate stuff like how they build them back in the day.

Barbieri-OSullivan said she wishes more people knew about the history.

These boats were built and created economic prosperity in Virginia before the railroads came along, she said. So the historical significance of these boats is enormous to what they did for trade in Virginia.

The crew set off soon after 11 a.m., following the traditional firing of a small cannon to signal the start of the journey.

Taylor said the river seemed to be flowing perfectly, and Barbieri-OSullivan agreed.

With recent rain, Barbieri-OSullivan said the river was flowing around five feet. River flow, also known as stream flow, is a term used to refer to the amount of water moving past a certain point during a given period of time, usually measured as cubic feet per second.

Not too slow, not too fast, she said. It seems just right.

Trice and Zinn said the water levels this year will mean the crew will have less problems getting over any rocks in their path.

Some years we cant even pole; we have to get out in the river and walk it over the rocks, Zinn said.

While the journey was going to be long and the sky threatened more rain, Barbieri-OSullivan refused to worry.

We have ponchos, she said.
June 16, 2017 Benjamin "Donald" Preston, 79, of Glade Hill, went home to be with his heavenly father Friday, June 16, 2017. Donald and his bride, Ruth Pauline McBride Preston, were happily married on December 2, 1960 and were together for 56 years. Donald graduated from Franklin County High School in 1956. After graduation he worked on his grandfather's farm 1956  1959. In 1959 he was employed for Angle Hardware until 1960. 1960 till 1961 he was employed by Lynch Farm Equipment Company. While working with Lynch Farm he was called to serve his country. Donald served as a Sergeant, Sharp Shooter (Carbine), in the United States Army from 1961 thru 1963. He completed his basic training in Fort Jackson, S.C. He then was stationed in Redstone Arsenal Alabama. Ruth joined him for a brief amount of time and they lived in Huntsville, Ala. He then transferred to San Francisco, Calif. before traveling to Hawaii and then to Korea. Donald served most of his time in Korea. Upon returning home from Korea he joined his wife and became employed with JP Stevens in Rocky Mount, Va. where he stayed for 30 years before retiring. While working in the factory he was also co-owner of Goldmine Farm. Farming was the true occupation that he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adrian Harvey Preston and Hazel Garnett Foster Preston. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Preston; daughter, Sarah K. Waid-Harris, son-in-law, Steven Harris; and a loved and very special grandson, Benjamin H. Waid. Donald's family includes his brothers, Johnny Preston, wife Gail Preston, and Frank Preston; sisters, Angie Vaughn and Mary Frances Patterson. Donald has numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2017. The memorial service will be 2:30 p.m. in the family church of Glade Hill Baptist, Glade Hill, Va. In lieu of flowers and food please donate to Glade Hill Baptist Church. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.
Is rural America the new inner city?

Thats the premise of a thought-provoking Wall Street Journal story, which finds that since the 1990s, sparsely populated counties have replaced large cities as Americas most troubled areas by key measures of socioeconomic well-being  a decline thats accelerating.

The Journal crunched various government statistics to find:

n The nations total rural population  accounting for births, deaths and migration  has declined for five straight years.

n That decline is likely to continue. Since 2013, in the majority of sparsely populated U.S. counties, more people died than were born  the first time thats happened since the dawn of universal birth registration in the 1930s. That, by the way, is not just a distant national trend; we see that trend playing out in virtually every county in Southwest Virginia. And finally:

n In terms of poverty, college attainment, teenage births, divorce, death rates from heart disease and cancer, reliance on federal disability insurance and male labor-force participation, rural counties now rank the worst among the four major U.S. population groupings (the others are big cities, suburbs and medium or small metro areas).

Then follow charts showing how in each category, inner cities ranked worst in seven of those nine categories in 1980. Now, rural areas rank worst in all nine.

Lets restate that for effect. Conjure up your worst stereotype of inner city. Now lets look at the statistics. Where are teenagers most likely to get pregnant? Not the inner city, but rural areas. (Inner cities now rank third out of four, by the way.) Where are working-age men most likely to be unemployed? Not the inner city, but rural areas. (Inner cities actually were nearly tied with suburbs for the highest rates of male employment.) Broken homes? In 1980, rural areas were the least likely place to find divorces. By 2015, rural areas were the most likely place, because the divorce rate there had more than doubled.

This means our mental image of the country has to change, in a big way. Much of rural America is no longer the idyllic Norman Rockwell-esque land of white picket fences. Its Detroit, just more spread out.

Give Donald Trump credit. Of all the politicians in our land, he grasped that first. Nowhere did his call to Make America Great Again have more appeal than to rural America, a part of the country thats been voting Republican for quite awhile now, but voted for Trump most enthusiastically of all.

The great irony  perhaps even tragedy  is that his proposed budget does nothing to help the rural voters who helped put him in office. On the contrary, his budget eliminates the very federal agencies that make the most difference in rural communities. Most of these are ones ordinary voters havent heard of, such as the Economic Development Administration or the Appalachian Regional Commission, but that doesnt make them any less important when it comes to helping pay for the infrastructure that rural America needs to build a new economy.

Its the transformation of the economy that has wreaked this havoc on rural America, which the Journal painstakingly details. Its easy  too easy  to blame companies that have moved factories overseas to take advantage of cheaper labor. Some have, thats undeniable. However, a study by Ball State University found that 88 percent of the job losses in American manufacturing have been due to increases in productivity, which is a fancy way of saying automation.

The economy simply isnt producing many jobs for unskilled labor. The economy is producing jobs, but they are jobs that require certain skills  and the talent pool in rural areas is often pretty thin. Where are you least likely to find an adult with a college degree? Rural areas  and that gap is widening, the Journal found. The jobs are simply going elsewhere, not surprisingly so.

Thats why there is such bipartisan urgency to increase the skill level of Virginias workers  up to Democrat Ralph Northams call to make community college free for certain qualifying students. Not everyone will need a four-year degree, but a whole lot more people are going to need credentials and two-year degrees.

Its no accident that the six community colleges that have, on their own, put together scholarship programs to provide free tuition for certain qualifying students are all in, or serve, rural areas. Even more notably, five of those six are west of the Blue Ridge  Virginia Western, New River, Dabney S. Lancaster, Wytheville and Mountain Empire.

Even with a better-skilled workforce, rural areas face a hard road in a knowledge-based economy. The Journal looks at how the technological changes roiling the economy once seemed to offer prosperity to rural areas, but generally havent delivered.

For instance, there was a time when it seemed that the Internet would drive a rural Renaissance, because companies could more easily expand into communities where both land and workers were cheaper.

In the 1990s, Utahs governor enthusiastically pitched his state as just such a back-office location. Instead, the Journal reports, companies were turned off by the idea of having to visit and maintain offices in such locations, he said. Eventually, many of the call centers he landed moved overseas where labor was even cheaper.

Note #1: Trumps budget also eliminates the federal program that guarantees commercial air service to a lot of rural airports, making it even harder for those communities to attract employers.

Note #2: Southwest Virginia has its own unhappy experience with this. In the 1990s, Nexus Communications, amid much fanfare, put a call center in Clintwood, creating nearly 200 jobs in the coalfields. Within a decade, the company shut it down and moved the jobs to India. Then came Travelocity, which took over the building, and created nearly 500 jobs. Soon, those were moved to India, too. The Internet helped India, but not necessarily Clintwood.

There are certainly examples to the contrary, but evaluating the big picture, we have not seen small town America turn into thousands of little Silicon Valleys. Maybe it still will, with a lot of work on the part of community leaders. For now, though, the nations top business newspaper just described rural America as the nations biggest slum.
By Abraham Dayan

When the Diamond Trading Company decided to move the bulk of its services to the Botswana capital of Gaborone in 2011, it was due to mark the start of a new chapter in the diamond industry. Instead of transferring the country's rough diamonds out of the country shortly after they had been mined, as had been the case for dozens of years, basing the DTCs operations in Botswana was seen as providing a huge boost for the countrys beneficiation campaign. Although the concept of beneficiation really began in South Africa under former President Thabo Mbeki, ironically that country has been left behind while other diamond producing states in southern African have moved ahead, particularly Botswana and, to a lesser extent, Namibia.

The Botswana government and diamond industry officials have repeatedly stated that their aim is to create polished goods and even diamond-set jewelry at home and then export them. That would mean not just badly needed work in a country which suffers from high unemployment, but also a skills transfer and the creation of many thousands of extra jobs in associated services.

However, the reality of establishing diamond cutting and polishing plants in Botswana and manufacturing diamonds profitably has been very different from the original plan. Hundreds of workers have been laid off at cutting and polishing factories in the country over the last few years, as the southwest African country has discovered that the path to beneficiation is far from easy. High rough prices in recent years, together with static and declining polished prices, has slashed profitability. At its peak, in around 2012, manufacturing plants in the country employed close to 4,000 workers, however a wave of dismissals brought that number down rapidly.

Of all the southern African countries that have started along the path to beneficiation, it is Botswana that has made the most progress. Given that it has long been the world's largest diamond producer in value terms, this was hardly a surprise. Its diamond-producing power clearly gives it a great deal of muscle when it comes to negotiating with De Beers.

And since diamonds alone constitute around a third of its gross domestic product, it is obvious that the country is aiming to provide as much added value as possible to one of its few natural resources. The Botswana government and De Beers jointly own the national mining company, Debswana.





Jwaneng Mine



The sides agreed to establish a sorting plant in the Botswana capital of Gaborone at a cost to the diamond mining giant of $83 million where aggregation of its goods takes place. Botswana DTC, which the sides created in 2006, is responsible for the sorting of goods rather than having them sent to the DTC's main global office in London as happened in the past. The move aimed to create more than 3,000 jobs.

Beneficiation is regarded by the Botswana government as a critical part of its economic strategy due to the large role that diamonds play in the national economy. But the administration is also aware that the country has to develop other resources as diamonds will run out in the coming decades and has set out on a path of economic diversification.

Some estimates suggest that diamonds could run out by 2050, and that has given officials reason to promote beneficiation strongly in the hope that after the diamonds run out it will have become an acknowledged diamond cutting and polishing center as well as having a jewelry-making infrastructure.

There are 20 DTC Botswana sightholders, which under the terms of their receipt of rough diamonds, had to set up polishing facilities in the country. Although polishing in Botswana was initially not seen as commercially viable due to the high labor costs in the country compared to China and India, foreign diamond firms introduced state-of-the-art technology which aided in reducing the cost of production.

The De Beers sightholders in Botswana, are: A. Dalumi Diamonds Ltd, Arjav Diamonds NV, Blue Star Diamonds Pvt Ltd, Diacor International Ltd, Eurostar Diamonds Traders NV, Exelco NV, IGC Group NV, Julius Klein Diamonds LLC, KGK Diamonds (I) Pvt Ltd, Kiran Exports Bvba, Laurelton Diamonds Belgium BVBA, Leo Schachter International Ltd, M Suresh Company Private Ltd, Motiganz Diamond Group, Pluczenik Diamond Company NV, Safdico International Ltd, Signet Direct Diamond Sourcing Ltd, Tache NV, Trau Bros NV, Yerushalmi Bros Diamonds Ltd.

For Western diamond manufacturers, establishing factories in producer states enables them to achieve two aims. Firstly, it ensures a steady supply of the type of goods they need. Secondly, it allows them to show solid support for the beneficiation efforts of African states. In addition, with strong government support for their diamond industries and efforts made to show transparency in business and official policy, the governments of South Africa, Botswana and Namibia have given encouragement to overseas investors to open manufacturing plants.

But the difficulty of manufacturing in Botswana soon became apparent. Relatively high salaries have created an environment where it is cheaper to have the diamonds polished in India.





Jwaneng workers



Ironically, following the first moves to beneficiation, the process was largely halted due to the global financial crisis which struck in late 2008 and the recession which hit most Western states for most of 2009. With slumping global demand for diamonds, among the hardest-hit elements of the global diamond pipeline were the African producer states, whose reliance on gem production and exports is that much larger than other producers, who are able to rely on a wider range of exports for economic sustenance.

An innovation in the diamond mining agreement between De Beers and Botswana  and one which was copied by Namibia in a similar deal signed with the mining giant last year  was the creation of the Okavango Diamond Company as the Botswana governments way of selling local production independently of De Beers. The company is now entitled to 15 percent of diamond production recovered by Debswana. The government's aim is for Okavango's sales to help the country gain better rough price discovery information and also to help boost state revenue.

The government has launched a raft of generous incentives to attract firms to operate Botswana, including tax breaks and relocated workers. Under the terms of the agreement, those firms creating a base in Botswana receive a higher allocation of diamonds from De Beers. Aimed at boosting beneficiation, the agreement does not actually call, however, for the companies to commit to adding value within the country.

In other words, when times take a turn for the worst, companies may not feel particularly keen on retaining expensive operations, and have relatively little compunction about cutting their losses and leaving.

Creating value-addition around depleting mining operations is loaded with danger. Static demand for polished stones at best and a glut of inventory and diamond jewelry led to rough diamond prices plummeting by up to one-third from 2014 to 2015. That, in turn, led many companies in the country to close down their operations and axe staff. As long as the government fails to address the issues of productivity and costs  particularly labor costs  then beneficiation of diamonds is unlikely to truly succeed.

Creating a critical mass is vital. Unfortunately for the African diamond producers, that critical mass already exists  in India. With close to 1,000,000 diamond industry employees and several decades of experience in cutting and polishing and marketing diamonds, India is by far the world's leading manufacturing center. And that raises the uncomfortable question as to whether it's even worth the while of attempting to create such centers in southern African countries?




10th Annual Dubai Precious Metals Conference to explore impact of trade, tech and regulations on the industry DMCC has announced that the 10th edition of the annual Dubai Precious Metals Conference (DPMC) will be held on 22 November 2022 at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai. This years edition will bring together a plethora of speakers and participants from...

New record HPHT diamond sample The largest and purest diamond in the world weighing 16.04 carats was synthesized in Russia. The world's largest white diamond "Champion" is cut from a diamond grown by the HPHT method by the Russian company Advanced Synthetic Research...

WGC Report: Climate change adaptation and resilience strategies for the gold mining industry The Gold and climate change: Adaptation and resilience report from the World Gold Council identifies the key physical climate-related vulnerabilities of the gold mining industry and outlines a range of adaptation strategies to support the industry...

TAGS presents around $23mn South African production to over 120 companies in Nov 2022 The reopening of factories in India post-Diwali was generally delayed by 2 weeks in response to sluggish market conditions. The challenges that faced the market in the lead-up to the Diwali holiday remain unchanged. Global economies are still facing...
The diamond cutting and polishing centre in Surat and those in Navsari and Saurashtra in Gujarat observed a shutdown on Saturday to press for exemption of the diamond industry from Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime that will come into force from July 1 in India, according to media reports.

The call for shutdown was given by Diamond GST Sangarsh Samiti which has been opposed to GST Council's decision to implement 3% GST on polished diamonds, 18% on diamond trading and 0.25% on rough diamonds.

It is reported that around 4,000 diamond brokers and 3,500 diamond merchants did not work and 3,000 small and medium diamond units remained shut, resulting in a loss of more than $105 million to the trade.

Praveen Shanker Pandya, Chiarman of the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) had on Friday appealed to diamantaires in Surat, Navsari and other cutting centres in Saurashtra not to join the bandh.

Aruna Gaitonde, Editor-in-Chief of Assian Bureau, Rough & Polished


The company did not specified how long or where the turbulence occurred on the flight. Xinhua news state agency said that two violent bumps and many small bumps occurred over about 10 minutes. Other passengers on flight MU774 also reported feeling unwell .I felt like I would not survive, one of the passengers said after landing. We applauded when the plane landed safely. We feel lucky the plane did not crash, said an injured passenger.



Kunming Changshui International Airport

The airline said hat the Airbus A330, that had taken off from Paris Charles de Gaulle airport, landed safely in Kunming, the capital of Chinas southern Yunnan province, an hour later than scheduled, at Changshui International Airport. Those who needed medical help have been sent to the hospital. None of the passengers received life-threatening injuries, according to the First Peoples Hospital of Yunnan Province. Last week, a China Eastern flight bound for Shanghai had to make an emergency landing when one of its engines was severely damaged soon after take-off at Sydney, Australia.
About 200 sailors were aboard the ship at the time of the collision. Most of them have been asleep. Seven Navy sailors were missing. At least three sailors, including the ships captain, Cmdr. Bryce Benson, were injured and required medical evacuation, according to the Navy. Benson was taken to the U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka. He was reported to be in stable condition. The 20 member Filipino crew aboard the commercial ship was safe. Its unclear what caused the collision.



Damaged area of destroyer

The badly damaged guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald returned to its home port Yokosuka Naval Base, south of Tokyo, about 16 hours after the collision. The flooding on the Fitzgerald was stabilized. Search for the missing sailors continued with help pf U.S. aircraft as well as Japanese helicopters. Right now we are focused on two things: the safety of the ship and the well-being of the sailors, said Adm. Scott Swift, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

UPDATE:

The seven sailors that were missing have been found dead. As search and rescue crews gained access to the spaces that were damaged during the collision this morning, the missing sailors were located in the flooded berthing compartments, a statement of the Navy said.
Dear friends, This afternoon, we had a major accident at camp. Please join us in praying for the injured and their families. We are grateful to all of the EMTs/Paramedics, fire departments and first responders who came to our aid. We ask for your prayers for all involved. We will not have camp in session this week. Glacier Camp, on their own description, is a summer camp and retreat center specialized in Christian camping programs, family reunions, weddings, large group dinners, fundraising events, ski retreats and more.



Collapsed balcony at Glacier Camp, Montana

It was established in 1931, when Kathryn Fingado-ONeil, wife of Charles I ONeil, generously donated forty acres on the west shore of Flathead Lake to Kalispell First Presbyterian Church. The first structures on the site were a primitive arrangement. Swimming, playing ball games and be mentored by church leaders were the activities at that time. Glacier Presbyterian Center has helped tens of thousands of children and youth from Montana to grow in their faith. The cause of the Saturday collapse is under investigation.
Office of Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson

Ottawa's expansion of its light-rail system received a CA$1.09-billion (US$825-million) funding commitment from the Canadian government on June 16, 2017.

Canadas financial backing will be applied toward total eligible costs to Stage 2 through the governments long-term plan, Investing in Canada. This is in addition to the more than CA$67 million (US$50.7 million) the federal government committed to Stage 2 through the first phase of the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund in 2016. This funding has been used to advance work associated with the Stage 2 project including early works and engineering, procurement of light-rail vehicles, the design of a rail-to-rail grade separation and consultation with Indigenous communities.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Stage 2 would better connect the east, west and south areas of Canadas capital. The province of Ontario has also made a similar funding commitment to the project by investing CA$1 billion (US$770 million) towards Stage 2 LRT, plus 50 percent of the cost associated with extending the O-Train system to the Ottawa airport and from Place dOrleans to Trim. The city of Ottawa is responsible for the balance of the funding, which should be around an additional CA$1 billion (US$779 million).

[This] announcement puts the final piece in place for the funding of the Stage 2 LRT project. We can now plan to put shovels in the ground in 2019 as we continue expanding our world-class LRT system. Building Stage 2 will not only create jobs during construction, it will also give Ottawa a competitive edge to attract talent and new businesses to our city once the project is complete, said Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson.

Stage 2 will see an additional 38.8 km (24.1 miles) of rail and 23 new stations added to Stage 1 of the light-rail transit system currently under construction. This new stage of construction will begin in 2018. When construction is completed in 2023, 70 percent of Ottawa residents will live within 3.1 miles of light-rail transit.

This is the third Canadian transit project to receive major financial backing from the federal government in a week. Toronto Transit Commissions planned Yonge Subway north extension received a CA$36-million (US$27.18 million) federal commitment and Montreals Metropolitan Electric Network received a CA $1.28 billion (US $960 million) commitment.

For more information on Canadian rail projects, as well as projects around the world, visit IRJ Pro.
European stocks fell on Monday, with tech stocks coming under heavy selling pressure, after reports emerged that Apple's next iPhones won't include support for gigabit LTE speeds.

Also, with U.K. political uncertainty still weighing on , investors paid little attention to positive poll results in France and Italy.

French President Emmanuel Macron's party won an overwhelming majority in the first round of parliamentary elections, leaving traditional parties in disarray. In Italy, populist 5Star Movement suffered an unexpected setback in local municipal elections.

The pan-European Stoxx Europe 600 index was down 0.8 percent at 387.32 in late opening deals after rising 0.3 percent on Friday.

The German DAX was losing 0.7 percent, France's CAC 40 index was declining 0.8 percent and the U.K.'s FTSE 100 was moving down 0.2 percent.

Chipmakers ASML Holding, Dialog SemiConductor and STMicro fell 4-7 percent after heavy losses in their U.S. and Asian peers.

Dassault Systemes dropped 2.5 percent percent after it agreed to acquire a Dutch company specialized in marine and offshore engineering software.

Vonovia SE shares declined more than 1 percent. The German apartment owner announced that 49.86 percent of its shareholders choose scrip dividend instead of the cash dividend.

Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto shed half a percent after saying its wholly-owned Australian subsidiary, Coal & Allied Industries, has received a takeover proposal from Glencore Plc.

In economic releases, the French is forecast to grow as previously estimated in the second quarter, according to a survey conducted by the Bank of France. The bank said GDP will grow 0.5 percent in the second quarter, the same rate as estimated in May.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
French President Emmanuel Macron's party has won a clear parliamentary majority, weeks after his own presidential victory.

With nearly all votes counted, his La Republique en Marche, alongside its MoDem allies, won more than 300 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly.

The party was formed just over a year ago, and half of its candidates have little or no political experience.

The result has swept aside all of the mainstream parties and gives the 39-year-old president a strong mandate in parliament to pursue his pro-EU, -friendly reform plans.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
U.K. shares rose notably on Monday as higher iron ore prices lifted mining stocks and retail stocks rebounded from a selloff in the previous session after Amazon bought an American grocery chain.

French voters gave President Emmanuel Macron's upstart party a solid victory in Sunday's second-round election, paving the way for reforms in France. The pound held steady as Brexit talks get underway in Brussels.

The benchmark FTSE 100 was up 35 points or 0.47 percent at 7,498 in late opening deals after rising 0.6 percent on Friday.

Ocado shares soared 7 percent on speculation that it could become an acquisition target for Amazon. Marks & Spencer Group rose 2 percent and J Sainsbury rallied 2.5 percent.

Miners Antofagasta, Glencore, Rio Tinto Plc and Anglo American climbed 1-2 percent.

Cairn Energy tumbled 3 percent after the Indian Income Tax Department ordered coercive action against the company to recover Rs 10,247 crore of retrospective tax.

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(Agencia CMA Latam) - The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank approved Argentina's membership to the institution. Tonga and Madagascar also received the green light to be part of the bank.

"Tonga is well known as the Friendly Islands in the South Pacific, while Argentina and Madagascar are important economies in South America and Africa, respectively. I look forward to the role our new members will play once they fully join the Bank," said Jin Liqun, president of the AIIB, in a statement.

The three prospective members will officially join AIIB once they complete the required internal processes and deposit the first installment of capital with the Bank. The shares allocated to the new prospective members come from the Bank's existing pool of unallocated shares.

AIIB is a new multilateral development bank founded to bring countries together to address the infrastructure needs across Asia and beyond.

Headquartered in Beijing, AIIB's mission is to improve economic and social development in Asia by investing in high quality, financially viable and environmentally friendly infrastructure projects.

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
(Agencia CMA Latam) - The Brazilian Congress may suspend its recess to vote on an eventual investigation request from public prosecutors against President Michel Temer, said Rodrigo Maia, the House of Representatives Speaker.

Congressional recess should take place from 18 until 31 of July, but the request will be a priority "as long as [a vote on] it is pending on the House floor," said Maia. "Only after that, we can move forward and more calmly with other agendas", he added.

Temer is under investigation for allegedly receiving a bribery payment from meatpacking company JBS and also for supposedly endorsing graft payments to a former House of Representatives speaker who is currently in jail.

Further investigation and an eventual lawsuit against the Brazilian president require a green light from the local Congress.

by Agencia CMA Latam

For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Vanilla, the much needed flavor for ice creams and other food stuffs, is severely in short supply for want of enough natural vanilla beans, that sends the prices astronomically high.

CBS News reported that vanilla, which is in demand by Ice cream shops, bakeries and liquor producers, across the world, now costs more than $200 per pound, in comparison to as low as $11 per pound in 2011.

The world is running out of the special ingredient, due to droughts and cyclones that has wiped out 30 percent of the crop. Most of the world's vanilla beans are grown in African island Madagascar, where it grows naturally and gets pollinated by natural pollinators. Vanilla is the second most expensive spice, next to saffron.

In addition, armed vanilla bandits are said to rip the vines out of the ground, and farmers pick and sell immature pods resulting in poor quality.

A Canadian vanilla distributor reportedly said, "The 2017 Madagascar crop could very well be the worst quality crop delivered to the market in decades. How can we advise anybody to buy historically poor quality vanilla at 25 times the price they paid for far better quality less than five years ago?"

As per reports, vanilla suppliers have allocated a set amount of vanilla for each client, based on past purchases, obtaining the ingredient is growing more and more difficult.

Vanilla is considered as the foundation of the ice-cream industry and of other confectioneries and drinks. Vanilla can also be found in wafers, pipe tobacco and even in perfume.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Klarna, a Swedish payments startup, said it has been granted a full banking license by the Finansinspektionen, the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority. The company noted that the license will enable it to broaden its product portfolio for customers and merchants across Europe.

Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO of Klarna said, "As the entire banking value chain is being challenged, the payments sector has seen the most profound transformation. Klarna has played a role in disrupting payments services for the better and now as a consumer-oriented, product driven and intensive bank, we have the tools to drive change in retail banking."

Founded in 2005 in Stockholm, Klarna provides payment solutions for 60 million consumers across 70.000 merchants. The company, one of Europe's most highly valued startups, is active in 18 with more than 1,500 employees.

Klarna is backed by investors such as Sequoia Capital, Bestseller, Atomico and General Atlantic. The company has changed its legal name to Klarna Bank, but will continue to operate in the market as "Klarna".

According to its website, Klarna manages payments for e-commerce companies and handles around 450,000 transactions per day.

Klarna's new range of new banking products and services could include issuing payment cards, and moving into products to become an all-in-one digital wallet. Currently, Klarna offers direct payments, pay after delivery options and installment plans.

In early June, Klarna said that Brightfolk A/S, a company held by Anders Holch Povlsen, will acquire a strategic equity stake in the company.

Povlsen is the owner of European fashion company Bestseller, which owns fashion brands such as Jack & Jones, Vero Moda, Only and Selected. In addition, Povlsen has significant holdings in e-commerce fashion sites such as Asos and Zalando.

Klarna has said it recorded strong transaction volume growth in the first months of this year, building on a 50 percent increase in transaction volumes in 2016.

The company noted that the growth was partly driven by 17,000 new merchants across markets. In addition, twelve million consumers tried Klarna's products for the first time in 2016.

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Business News
We believe the shares of Boeing Co. (BA) are gearing to scale new horizons in the next few months. We think the stock has at least 25% upside from current levels.

Let us tell you why?

*Strong interest in Boeing's 737 MAX 10

This new Boeing model unveiled at the 2017 Paris Airshow to take on rival Airbus' A321neo, is expected to be the most profitable single-aisle airplane, offering the lowest seat costs ever. The operating cost per seat for the MAX 10 is expected to be 5% lower than that of A321neo, resulting in 5% lower trip costs as well. The maximum seating capacity of the MAX 10 is 230, 10 more than that of the MAX 9 series. Boeing says it already has more than 240 orders for the new series with commitments from 10+ customers, including BOC Aviation, GE Capital, CDB Aviation, TUI Group, Tibet Financial Leasing, and SpiceJet.

* Better-than-expected Growth in Demand

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Chief Executive Kevin McAllister forecast that the world would need 41,000 commercial jets over the next 20 years. This represents, a 4% increase from Boeing forecast last year. A detailed forecast will follow from Boeing on Tuesday. Last week, rival Airbus projected the need for 34,899 jets over the next 20 years. This outlook was 6% above its own 2016 guidance.

*Defense Sparking up

Boeing is shaking up its $29.5 billion defense business, by eliminating 50 executive positions and splitting its defense, space and security division (BDS) into smaller entities. The move, according to the division's boss, Leanne Caret, will speed decision-making and help the business better anticipate the needs of defense customers. The business accounted for nearly a third of Boeing's total revenue in 2016.

Boeing's BDS revenues have declined from $33.2 billion in 2013 to $30.9 billion in 2014, $30.4 billion in 2015 and $29.5 billion in 2016, due to loss of key contracts and reduced defense spending. Backlog at BDS at the end of Q4-2016, was $57 billion, of which 37% represented orders from international customers. However, backlog at BDS at the end of Q1-2017 was $63 billion, of which 34% represented orders from international customers. The company has reaffirmed its BDS revenue guidance for 2017 to be between $28 billion and $29 billion.

Last week, Qatar's Ministry of Defense said it signed a deal to buy F-15 fighter jets from the United States for $12 billion, amid escalating tensions with its neighbors. The deal went through despite U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing the country for supporting terrorism. November last year, the Obama administration approved possible sale of up to 72 F-15QA aircraft to Qatar for $21.1 billion. Boeing is the prime contractor on the fighter jet sale deal. The deal happening is a plus for Boeing.

Boeing also has its eyes set on the contract for the next generation of the Global Positioning System: GPS3. Although, Lockheed Martin has been contracted to supply the first batch, due to some delay and snags, the U.S. Airforce has solicited other contenders to build the next batch of satellites. Boeing has responded to this solicitation stating that it continues to believe in affordable low-risk alternate GPS solutions. Boeing has the scale to deliver the solutions for this mission and has already built the platform and major payload components for the GPS 2F satellites. Chances of Boeing landing the deal are likely, although one can never be too sure.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
A newly married couple pose for wedding photos in Xizhou, Yunnan. HOU LIQIANG/CHINA DAILY

Wang Shifeng's house is a typical traditional residence of the Bai ethnic group, constructed from wood and earth in the 1940s and with three chambers and a screen wall forming a central courtyard.

Once, beautiful carvings adorned many parts of the wooden structures, while the screen wall carried poems and paintings of flowers. Now, the once-splendid house in Xizhou, a village in Dali city, Yunnan province, is more like a patchwork of different colors and styles, and grass grows on the roof.

Wang Shifeng's family of four is one of more than 10 families living in the compound, which has about 20 rooms. Each family owns one or two rooms. Some families don't have a kitchen, while others lack washrooms so they have to use the public toilets a short walk away, he said.

In 2012, the central government launched a campaign to protect traditional villages, and Xizhou is now listed as a National Traditional Village.

"Each family repairs the parts they own when something goes wrong, but the work has never been done with any unified materials or colors. Some paint their sections red, others paint them yellow," the 40 year old said.

These "patched" compounds represent more than 100 traditional residences in Xizhou, some of which date back to the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Most of the houses, which were once owned by landlords, were confiscated by the government and redistributed to the poor around the time of the foundation of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

Property rights are an extremely complicated issue. As older generations pass away, different parts of some houses are inherited by a growing number of descendants. A compound can sometimes be owned by more than 20 people.
This dynamic helped Gov. Laura Kelly win reelection in Kansas

Gov. Laura Kelly won a second term in a historic win in the Kansas governor's race. Her performance in Johnson County helped deliver a narrow victory.
China is making a further step in boosting its wine culture as a team of three young Chinese students competed against global rivals in a wine tasting competition at Chateau Lafite-Rothschild in Bordeaux.

Fan Lina (center) and judges meet Chinese teams at a wine-tasting in Bordeux, France. [Photo by Wang Mingjie/China Daily UK]

The competition, which is called the Left Bank Bordeaux Cup, is one of the most prestigious wine contests for college students. First introduced in 2002 by the Commanderie du Bontemps de Medoc, one of the oldest and biggest French wine appreciation guilds, the contest was a national event for wine societies in France before it was opened up to the world in 2011.

This year, eight teams took part in the grand finale, which comprised a multiple-choice test on Bordeaux's history and trivia, followed by a blind tasting in which participants are asked to determine the grape varieties, vintage and origins of selected wines.

Two Chinese teams, Hong Kong Science and Technology University and Zhejiang Gongshang University ranked fourth and fifth respectively in the final.

The trophy was awarded to EM Lyon from France, HEC Lausanne came second and Sciences Po Bordeaux was placed third. Three other participating teams were Bocconi University from Italy, Columbia Business School and Tuck School of Business from the USA.

Fan Lina, who is a senior chateau M&A advisor and the only Chinese judge on the panel, said: "the performance from the Chinese team was commendable, given the difficulty of the questions, which are impossible to find in the textbooks. Some of the questions I don't even believe all the judges are able to give the right answers."

China team at the wine appreciation contest in Chateau Laftie-Rothschild in Bordeaux on 16 June. [Photo by Wang Mingjie/China Daily UK]

Despite the fourth place, Fan said, the Chinese team were doing extremely well in the first half of the competition in which they held a distinct lead. She believes the Chinese students' lack of experience in fine wines led to their falling behind in the blind tasting.

But she is confident that with a growing wine interest in China, it will become easier for Chinese to access high quality wines, adding "very soon we will see China become a wine master nation."

Whilst explaining the reason for promoting such a competition amongst university students, Emmanuel Cruse, the world grand master of the Commanderie Bontemps who led the judging team of 18 for the final, said the aim of this contest is to enable the world's future elites to come into closer contact with the great growth wines of Bordeaux's left bank.

"There is no other better way to promote Bordeaux wines in such a sustainable manner," Cruse added.

China team collects the fifth-place award from the Commanderie du Bontemps de Mdoc, one of the most historical and biggest French wine appreciation guilds. [Photo by Wang Mingjie/China Daily UK]

Christophe Salin, CEO of the Domain Baron de Rothschild, who was also on the judges' panel, said young people in China are catching up rapidly with their global peers in terms of wine knowledge, but to develop an in-depth wine culture requires patience, as it has taken several generations for Bordeaux to have such a prestige in the wine industry.

Wang Zhengqing, 19, the team captain of the Zhejiang team said: "it is frustrating that we didn't get to the top three," as he believes the whole team has the capability to do so.

Wang added:"the experience of attending such high-level wine competition is priceless."

The latest figures from Vinexpo predict that wine sales in China will grow by 39.8 percent in the next three years, leading the country to become the world's second largest wine market after the US.
The Sunday Samoans front-page story titled Govt. money missing about the Police hunt for $50,000 that has mysteriously disappeared from the Samoa Land Corporation (S.L.C) is an interesting one.

According to the Acting Police Assistant Commissioner, Salaa Moananu Sale, was removed from the safe located inside the main office of the Corporation at Vaitele.

Salaa said the police have ruled out the possibility that it was a burglary.

Police officers have taken photos and have been to every door and window, he said.

It is evident there is no sign of forced entry into the building to indicate that this was burglary.

According to Salaa three employees of S.L.C have been questioned by the Police.

In the meantime, the S.L.C has requested for their auditors to conduct an internal investigation into the books, he said.

A report will be given to the police upon completion. But that will not stop the police from continuing their investigation. This case is a priority.

Why is that?

Well the Assistant Commissioner pointed out that the missing funds is government money and the police will exhort all options to find it.

Well thats great isnt it? $50,000 is indeed a lot of money.

Keep in this is pretty insignificant considering millions wasted by this particular Corporation in the past.

Which brings us to the point that since the now the Police are on an all out hunt to recover this money, someone needs to remind them that they too should look into claims of corruption and collusion in the Corporations past that have yet to be dealt with.

We are talking about the unbridled corruption found by the Chief Auditor and the Officers of Parliament Committee reports which uncovered that millions of taxpayers monies had been wasted and unaccounted for. These have been raised time and time again and ignored.

We believe there are blatant acts of wrongdoing screaming at us to correct and do something about.

Were referring to a file of documents in which documentary evidences were presented to Prime Minister Tuilaepa some time ago to prove that public servants had colluded to defraud public funds at S.L.C.

At the time, Prime Minister Tuilaepa was challenged to take another look at the documents the O.P.C had provided. We are not going to delve into the specifics of these documentary evidences today.

But if the Police have been engaged on a full investigation to find $50,000  as they should  why were they not invited to also investigate the Chief Auditors Report? What about the O.P.C reports?

With due respect, $50,000 is peanuts compared to millions.

Will it be correct to say that those millions wasted and unaccounted will now become a thing of the past since no one seems to care anymore?

Funny how these things keep popping up, dont they?

But then this is always the result when we fail to deal with wrongdoing of the past, they always find a funny way of reminding us. Dont they?

What do you think?

Have a great week Samoa, God bless!
Re: Cabinet endorses tax report

Its very sad to see our government going after these people that we Samoans called Ao o faalupega and Ao o le Malo.

These are the people respected the most by our own culture and yet our own government wanted to go after the money donated by members of the church.

My biggest problem is that the minister of revenue is leading this search for money from our own people who are only making peanuts and yet he and the government is DOING NOTHING to the millions of Samoan Tala that is going out to China from the Chinese working and own businesses here in Samoa.

This is an area where the Minister of Revenue should have looked into it a long time ago. The government should count money that is going out to China and other countries.

TJ
A man in his early 40s has been charged with sexual violation of a 13-year-old girl who he made to be his wife.

According to the Acting Assistant Commissioner Salaa Moananu Sale the incident occurred in one of the villages in Savaii.

Initially the matter was reported to the police at Tuasivi as assault, Salaa told the media.

However the police found out that the accused wife is a 13-year-old victim.

The accused has been in prison before and he has had previous convictions of theft and burglary.

We are not sure at this stage whether he has any convictions of sexual violation.

According to police reports the victim is the wife of the accused. He assaulted her and she reported the incident to the police.

So when the police investigated the matter they found out through her birth certificate that she is just 13-years-old but they are living as a couple.

This means she should be in Year 9 right now.

The man, whose name is withheld, is in custody.

The accused is in custody, he said.

There will be more people who will be charged in this matter if the investigation is completed. People who might have known about this matter but never reported the matter to the police.

The parents of the victim will surely be charged if the investigation confirmed that they knew about the matter because the girl is way too young.

The maximum penalty of this kind of case is 10 years imprisonment.
Funnyman Tofiga Fepuleai touched down at Faleolo International Airport last night.

He is in the country for his first solo show, I Gant beliv it scheduled at Taumeasina Island Resort on Wednesday night.

Proceeds from the Show will go towards Faataua le Ola Lifeline, Mapuifagalele and Samoa Special Olympics.

Its good to be able to do a show and be able to give back to the community in Samoa, he said.

Thats basically what the show is all about, to raise funds to cover cost but the main thing is to give back and thats why we hope to raise a lot of funds on Wednesday night.

Its always nice to come back to Samoa.

Tofiga said this Show is different.

A lot of people know me as the laughing Samoan. Myself and my brother Ete weve had an awesome journey for almost 14 years. I think with this show is more of a personal touch where people will know who Tofiga as a person, rather than the different characters.

Its a whole new journey for us as well, me and my family and what were doing now.

The main aim is just to give back to Samoa and being here is really special.

For Togiga, his focus now is family.

I guess more now, that Im doing solo I can work it around my kids, around what they are doing back home with their schooling and stuff.

When we were the Laughing Samoans, we travelled a lot and I got young kids. My oldest is 11, seven and six. I told my oldest son that its more important that he knows me as a father, rather than an entertainer.

All the money in the world will mean nothing to me, when I don't get quality time with my children. Its nice to base everything around my family.

Tofiga also spoke about the significance of having a positive crowd.

The one thing I will be emphasising during this visit to Samoa is the importance of surrounding yourself with good people, Tofiga said.

It doesn't matter the number of people you surround yourself with but the quality of people who have around you.

Everyone goes through tough times and most of the time its the people you have around that can make the difference of whether you get back up or stay down.

What can people expect?

Ive had a couple of Shows in NZ so far with my Wellington Show just a couple of weeks ago. I premiered my "I Gan't belive it" show to a sellout crowd in Auckland in April.

The support and feedback from people who have seen the show has been overwhelming and humbling. And now Im going to be performing my solo show in Samoa and for me its a big thing.

I look forward to visiting Samoa to perform my show but most of all to be able to be more involved with projects focusing on young people in Samoa.

Its been awesome to connect again with my good friend Etu Life to plan this trip to Samoa. Im looking forward to sharing some of my experiences and life lessons with the students at some of the local schools in Samoa.

WHAT: Tofiga Fepuleai

WHEN: Wednesday 21 June 2017, 7pm  10pm

WHERE: Taumeasina Island Resort

COST OF TICKETS: Standing Ticket $50 pax, Corporate Table 10pax - $2,500

HOW YOU CAN GET TICKETS: Radio Polynesia Savalalo, Taumeasina Island Resort and from Elife Events @ 7592000/7630844/7700388
Many illegal drugs have important medicinal uses.

Opium is the only legal drug that is allowed under Samoas Narcotic Act. It is classified as a Class B narcotic together with marijuana and its considered an illegal drug.

Under section 10 of the Act, it prohibits importing prepared opium into Samoa unless a license has been granted by the Ministry of Health Chief Executive Officer.

This is according to the Samoa Law Reform Commission (S.L.R.C) report on the review of the Narcotics Act 1967 released last week. In 2015, the S.L.R.C received a term of reference from the Office of the Attorney General noting concerns that the current Act is outdated.

The S.L.R.C report says the Narcotics Act does not expressly provide for the situations in which members of the public can apply for illegal drugs to be used for medicinal purposes.

However, this mechanism does exist in practice and can be utilized if the prescribing physician deems it necessary to request the particular drug, particularly opium.

This system has been rarely utilised in Samoa.

Conversely, overseas jurisdictions such as New Zealand and Australia utilize this option more routinely and have concrete mechanisms in place to facilitate these applications.

According to the report, Opium is used to produce morphine and codeine and is commonly used for pain relief.

In New Zealand, methadone is also used in drug treatment. Many other drugs are used in tranquillisers, sedatives, stimulants and antipsychotics.

Aside from medicinal opium, the Narcotics Act is silent on situations where an illegal drug can be requested for medicinal purposes. The Narcotics Act only provides for the supply of opium by the C.E.O of Ministry of Health to registered persons already addicted to the quasi medicinal use of opium before the Act was passed.

The Act provides that the C.E.O may supply a certain quantity of medicinal opium to a person on the register whom he/she thinks fit to be supplied thereof.

Accordingly, the conditions in which a person in Samoa can be prescribed opium are incredibly limited, as they are only provided to persons on the register.

Opium is classified as a Class B narcotic together with marijuana thus it is considered an illegal drug, and section 10 prohibits importing prepared opium into Samoa unless a licence has been granted by the CEO. On the other hand, opium can be used for medicinal purposes if it has undergone the processes necessary to adapt it for medicinal use.

The SLRC report also points to other medicinal drugs, there is scope under the Narcotics Regulation 1967 for an approved licensee to prescribe drugs, for example medicinal marijuana. Preliminary consultations with MoH revealed that patients have requested medicinal drugs from their doctors. There has only been one request for medicinal marijuana in 2015 however. This request involved a woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She requested the supply of medicinal marijuana (cannabis oil) for pain relief.

When a request is filed the MoH must submit the application to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) for approval. The MoH will find an importer and apply for a licence from the INCB to allow for the import of narcotics.

Once the licence is approved, the drug is then imported for medicinal use in quantities specified by the treating physician. These licences can only be used in controlled situations and are valid for 3 months only, says the SLRC report.

According to MoH, the supply of opium and other medicinal drugs is rare in Samoa. However, once people are aware of this option for pain relief, MoH anticipates more requests of this nature in future, says the report.

According to the report the Narcotics Act provides for situations  albeit limited in scope  in which medicinal opium can be prescribed.

In order to assess the ways in which Samoa can move forward with respect to this issue, the Commission has identified relevant questions for public submissions.

COMPARABLE JURISDICTIONS- NEW ZEALAND

In New Zealand, in order for controlled drugs like cannabis to be used for medicinal purposes, it must meet the same criteria and testing processes as any other medicine. Recent changes to the New Zealand regulations in 2017 made the process for prescribing non-pharmaceutical, cannabis-based products more accessible where approval was delegated to the New Zealand Ministry of Health and no longer with the Minister.

AUSTRALIA

In 2016, Australias federal parliament passed amendments to the Narcotics Drugs Act 1967 (Commonwealth) to allow controlled cultivation of cannabis for medicinal or scientific purposes through a single national licensing scheme.

The Commonwealth now oversees all regulatory aspects of the cultivation of medicinal cannabis through one national scheme as opposed to eight separate jurisdictions, which arguably helps speed up the legislative process and access to medicinal cannabis products as well.

Some Australian states have implemented their own alterations in anticipation of proposed reforms at the federal level.

Queensland recently passed the Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 requiring the Director General of Queensland Healths approval for a patients access to medicinal cannabis, says the SLRC report.

UNITED KINGDOM

The United Kingdom takes a slightly different approach, drugs classified under the United Kingdoms Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 are deemed to have no therapeutic value and therefore cannot be lawfully possessed or prescribed. These drugs include ecstasy, LSD and cannabis. However, the pharmaceutical cannabis based medicine Sativex is accessible to sufferers of a chronic condition known as multiple sclerosis and is at the discretion of the prescribing doctor.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

In the United States, more than 15 States have legalised medicinal cannabis. Four States have even legalised cannabis both recreationally and medicinally.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has urged the United States President, Donald Trump, to reconsider his decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate change deal.

Speaking to the media in Samoa upon his return from UN Oceans Conference recently held in New York, Tuilaepa said President Trump needs to show quality leadership by reconsidering his recent announcement.

While the announcement has been condemned by world leaders, Tuilaepa said the fact is even the United States is divided over the issue.

Trump announced the withdrawal, Tuilaepa said. But then the State leaders also made their announcements. They said not to worry about the announcement by their President because they will continue with their future plans already in place.

Its good whats happening as it appears that State leaders do not care about what their president said.

According to Prime Minister Tuilaepa, climate change affects all regions of the world and the United States is not immune.

He said the environment as it stands today is unable to absorb the carbon dioxide and this is why actions to address climate change are critical.

Tuilaepa estimated that back, when Jesus Christ was born the worlds population was about 200,000 million.

There were numerous trees.

Nowadays, 7.3billion is the world population and a lot of trees have been cut down for construction of homes and other developments.

Its not the same, anymore.

He said the end result is polar ice shields that are melting and the sea is rising.

This is resulting some extreme weather events where smaller island countries are particularly vulnerable.

The combination of these changes is causing sea levels to rise, resulting in flooding and erosion of coastal and low lying areas.

If this happens then there will be no more Apia, we would go and live on the mountains.

By then, Tonga is no more, as well as Tuvalu, Kiribati and Tokelau Islands.

This is unsettling for the Pacific leaders as we are faced by the question of survivability.

According to Tuilaepa some countries are looking at purchasing land on higher grounds and mountains.

For Samoa, we join the global belief that there is chance and with prayer, God is a mighty working God.

Last month, the President Donald Trump announced their withdrawal from the Paris Climate Change Pact.

In 2015 America signed the Paris Agreement under former President Barack Obama.

The move by Trump was strongly criticized by Pacific Leaders, one of the regions bearing the brunt of rising sea levels and changing weather conditions.

Last week, Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Fiame Naomi Mataafa has expressed deep disappointment in the United States Presidents decision.

Fiame believes America should reconsider its position.

All I can say is to echo the disappointment from world leaders including those from Samoa and the Pacific at the U.S.As about face under the new administration, she said.

But Fiame also had a message for all the 174 countries who signed the Paris Agreement.

The important thing is for all the countries who signed the Paris Agreement to move forward on our global response to Climate Change. Hopefully the U.S.A can resolve the issue internally and realign with the rest of the world.
After five years of immense studying and intense legal training, it all came down to one ceremony that made it official for Tosimaea Tupua.

Last Tuesday, Tosi Tupua took his oath as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia.

Although his father, Fuimaono Fereti Tupua, was unable to attend the ceremony, this memorable day was witnessed by his mother, Feaisili Tupua, and wife, Moneka Knight, with their two children and nephew, Wilberforce Tupua.

In 2016, Tosi graduated with a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania, Australia, after a drastic career shift from working internationally as a journalist with CCTV in Beijing and Al Jazeera in the Middle East.

I have worked internationally as a journalist and I intend to continue my career with an international focus, this time in law, Mr. Tupua said.

I have always had a dream of being a lawyer, and after studying and working as a news anchor in Beijing and the Middle East, my wife Moneka wanted to return home to Tasmania to raise our family.

After graduating last year, Tosi undertook his professional legal training at Leo Cussen Centre for Law in Melbourne, where he sat and passed the bar exam in order to become a practicing Australian lawyer.

He is now working in Sydney with the firm of Austin Haworth & Lexon, and he will be moving to its headquarters in Shanghai next month. Tosi will be practicing predominantly in the areas of equity and corporate law.

Strategically, I intend to develop my legal experience first overseas before I return back home to contribute to the growth and development of Samoa. I hope to use my knowledge and experience of Australian and Chinese law, to facilitate the on-going good relations between the three countries.

The journey has not been easy, but it is absolutely worth it when you are officially attributed the title of lawyer.

Tosi will soon be joined by his nephew, Wilberforce Tupua who will be graduating in Spring 2018 with his Bachelor of Laws and Political Science degrees from the University of Auckland.
Most of us would agree that Apia is a beautiful place.

The wonderful thing about it is that it is slowly becoming the hub of international meetings, sporting events and all sorts of gatherings so that visitors to these shores will have lots of wonderful stories to tell when they return.

You only need to look at the Dear Tourist pages of this newspaper and you will be inspired by the many positive traits of Samoa that people find attractive.

This week, Apia is once more under the spotlight due to the visit by the Wales rugby team and a few other events that are happening. It is a wonderful time to Samoa.

But there is a downside which is becoming very annoying and unattractive on the streets of Apia  and in most places now.

Whether we agree or disagree about the existence of poverty in Samoa, the growing number of young people hawking goods on the streets at all sorts of hours during day and night is disturbing.

Its not just sad in our eyes; its the images that are being created in the minds of visitors and the impression they are taking back with them to their countries.

Indeed, using young children, who should be in school, or in bed late at night, to attract the sympathy of passers by, who are then forced to buy something from them or give them money, should be discouraged and frowned upon.

We say this because the reality is that everyday in this country, we are seeing so many young children taking to the streets to beg  and sell - for whatever they could get their hands on, to help their families survive.

Its hard to argue when they are doing it with their parents holding their hand after school. But that is not the problem.

The problem is street vendors running around and away from the Police during school hours. Then you have young children patronizing the popular eatery places at night where visitors and locals alike are hassled.

Over the years, this newspaper has been highlighting some pretty heart-breaking stories about these young people.

Take a drive down to McDonalds at night or outside those nightclubs and you will see what we are talking about.

Now, we are aware that sometimes desperation knows no end.

We are also aware that in Samoa, many children are brought up on the notion that a child can be blessed beyond measure purely from listening and obeying the parents.

With that in mind, some children have voluntarily decided to stay home, instead of getting an education, so they can hit the streets to make whatever they can to help their parents. This is truly tragic.

Let us remind here and now that it is the parents and caregivers responsibility to provide for these children. They should be given the opportunity to study and be nurtured until such a time when they can go out to find formal employment.

Another way to look at whats happening today is that children are being exploited by their parents and others to make money.

This is a sad, sad reality.

Surely this is not the kind of future Samoa wants.

Weve said this time and time again. Our children should be treasured as the gifts that they are supposed to be. They do not deserve to be treated like slaves where parents and adults use other peoples sympathy to earn them sales.

The point is that on the streets of Apia and all over Samoa every day and every night, there are children being forced to sell and beg from total strangers, putting their lives at risk. This is not normal.

What do you think?

Write and share your thoughts with us.

Have an awesome Tuesday Samoa, God bless!
A worker arranges flags at the EU headquarters as Britain and the EU launch Brexit talks in Brussels, June 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

Britain and the European Union have on Monday started formal talks on the UK's departure from the EU, with the British government still wracked by internal disagreement over what kind of deal they want.

UK Secretary of the State for Exiting the European Union David Davies sat down with his team to start the process, with Michel Barnier and his aides.

The system worked out by both sides called for a monthly cycle, consisting of two weeks of officials laying out the month's negotiating points, followed by a week's hard bargaining between Davies and Barnier. The fourth week would then allow both sides to brief their respective governments - 27 in the case of the EU - before moving on to the next agreed agenda item.

The UK government's ruling Conservative Party has been divided over the deal, with long-standing opponents of the EU membership demanding a so-called "hard Brexit". Others, including Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond, urged a "soft Brexit", which would include remaining in the single customs union, accepting the free movement of EU citizens, and continuing to recognise the Europe Court of Justice.

On Monday, the Guardian reported EU officials were concerned the UK government's current weakened state, plus concerns it was distracted about continuing terror attacks and a major deadly fire at a London residential tower block, could mean a disjointed approach in the exit talks.

Prime Minister Theresa May, who previously had a comfortable 17 seat parliamentary majority, held an unexpected snap general election earlier this month, which left her short of the overall number of seats needed to govern, although her Conservatives were the largest party.

A reminder of the problems faced by May and her colleagues came early on Monday, when a van was driven deliberately into worshippers leaving a north London Mosque, killing one and injuring ten. The driver, a white male, was arrested and charged with murder. Eyewitnesses said he shouted "I want to kill Muslims" as he was detained.
Farmers have expressed growing concerns about a new unknown virus found in taro in some parts of Upolu.

Despite the assurance from the Ministry of Agriculture that the nation has nothing to worry about in terms of a new unknown virus, farmers worry about the future of the crop.

It was not possible to get a comment from the Ministry of Agriculture yesterday.

But 46-year-old farmer from Mauga Savaii, Moe Paono, said the absence of an update about the state of the virus which surfaced at the beginning of last month is concerning.

Im from Savaii and even though I havent received any confirmation about the virus crossing over to our island, I still worry, he said.

What we were told (on the media) a number of weeks ago is that the government banned the transportation of taro shoots between the two islands (Savaii and Upolu).

In my opinion, there is no guarantee that the idea will stop the spread of the virus to parts of Savaii, Apolima and Manono.

Moe went on to say that the ministry should work together with all the farmers in the country.

I think they should prioritise ways to work together with everyone (farmers) but not just the affected parts of the country here in Upolu.

We may never know what tomorrow will bring. Theres no time to wait on those samples...but I think the idea is to work together...they should let us know that these are some of the ways where we can protect our crops.

Another farmer, Toae Lemigao from Tanumalala agrees.

The disease could lead to a huge loss in our economy especially because most of our people rely on taro plantation.

Toae said the government should keep the public well informed.

We need to know what is happening.

All we heard is that there is a new virus but apart from that we havent been told anything else.

No further notices. It seems to me that theyre saying that theres nothing to worry about. Thats fine but what if it grows and becomes another taro leaf plight?

Last month, the American Samoa Department of Agriculture suspended importing taro and taro shoots from Samoa.

I mean thats not small, Toae said.

What will happen when other countries suspend the export of our taro? We should be talking about this. The government should be working with farmers on ways to prevent this from spreading.

As a farmer, Im very worried about the virus. The virus could result in the severe loss of income for us and the economy will eventually be affected.

I mean taro is not only to feed my family, but also to put my children in school.

The farmers believe prevention is better than cure.

I dont want to remember the taro leaf blight (lega) and how it devastated Samoa back in the 1990s. This is why we have to be proactive about this.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump has yet to condemn an attack on Muslim worshippers in London, the latest instance in which he has appeared slower to speak out about violence when Muslims are the victims.

Unlike with other recent incidents targeting civilians, there have been no early-morning Trump tweets voicing sympathy for the victims. The first White House voice to acknowledge the attack was Trump's daughter, Ivanka. She tweeted that she was "sending love and prayers" and that the U.S. "must stand united against hatred and extremism in all its ugly forms."

As president, Trump has taken steps to protect Muslims, including airstrikes against Syria's government after a chemical attack.

Still, Muslim groups say Trump reacts differently when Muslims are the perpetrators of attacks, instead of the targets.
In its relatively brief lifetime, the biotechnology industry has swung between exuberance and despondency.

In an uncertain environment, the best path is to stay the course, according to a report released Monday by the professional services firm EY (formerly Ernst & Young).

To stay the course means continuing to invest in new technologies and trusting in the long development cycles of biotech to provide return on investment despite short-term fluctuations, the report said.

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Issued on the opening day of the massive Biotechnology Innovation Organization convention in San Diego, the annual study said the biotech industry is in good shape by historical standards.

In 2016, overall financing was down, but the early stage venture ecosystem remained healthy, the report stated. In fact, biotech enjoyed its third-best financing year ever, despite a drop in proceeds from initial public offerings and follow-on rounds.

Revenue for American and European biotech companies reached $139.4 billion in 2016, up 7 percent from a year earlier. However, net income dropped 52 percent  to $7.9 billion. And financing dropped 27 percent, to $7.9 billion.

San Diego Countys biotech companies pulled in $3.8 billion last year, an 11 percent increase over 2015. They incurred a net loss of $1.6 billion.

In the San Diego region, biotech venture capital financing leveled off around $1 billion for last year, about the same as 2015 but still up from about $400 million in 2013 and about $700 million in 2014, according to the new report.

Much of San Diegos financing went to genomics companies.

For example: San Diego-based Human Longevity raised $220 million in April 2016. That was the second-largest U.S. venture financing for that year, exceeded only by the $474 million raised by Moderna Therapeutics of Cambridge, Mass.

While the new administration of President Donald J. Trump has introduced uncertainties for the life-sciences sector, the report said some of the presidents appointees will help the biotech industry grow.

Biotech organizations and executives agree the recent appointment of FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb will help to maintain the industrys regulatory momentum, the EY report said. Gottlieb may also be in a position to curb some of biopharmas worst excesses: He has signaled a desire to speed generics to market as a way to counter high drug prices in niche markets where one company enjoys a monopoly.

Some of that competition is already coming.

On Thursday, San Diegos Adamis announced it had received FDA marketing approval for an epinephrine injector that will compete against the EpiPen thats currently sold by Mylan for more than $600.

Mylan has received extensive negative publicity for jacking up the price of its injector, which uses a generic drug to counter allergic reactions.

According to a recent New York Times article, when asked about the EpiPens high price, Mylans chairman, Robert Coury, raised both his middle fingers and explained, using colorful language, that anyone criticizing Mylan, including its employees, ought to go copulate with themselves.

Biotech companies are more comfortable charging high prices for new drugs that address unmet needs, because these drugs improve on the standard of care. The report said investments appear to be increasingly concentrated in two such areas: rare diseases and cancer.

In particular, both venture investment and the public market bets appear to be focused on immuno-oncology companies, the EY authors wrote.

Science Playlist  On Now In a first, scientists rid human embryos of a potentially fatal gene mutation by editing their DNA On Now Space station flyovers visible from San Diego this week 0:55 On Now UCSD's 'ghost drivers' begin testing people's reaction seemingly empty cars 1:29 On Now 10 interesting facts about Mars On Now Kids can add years to your life On Now LA 90: SpaceX launches recycled rocket On Now Big passions, big giving: Malin Burnham 2:30 On Now Big passions, big giving: Darlene Shiley 2:40 On Now Big passions, big giving: Joan and Irwin Jacobs 2:45 On Now Ocean temperatures warming at rapid rate, study finds

bradley.fikes@sduniontribune.com

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La Jollas Synthetic Genomics and oil giant ExxonMobil said Monday that they have created an oil-rich strain of algae that represents a major research advance toward commercializing algae-based biofuels.

Researchers have doubled lipid content in a genetically engineered strain of Nannochloropsis gaditana, the companies said in a study published in the journal Nature Biotechnology. The level has been increased from about 20 percent in the natural form of this edible ocean algae to 40 to 55 percent in the engineered strain.

Moreover, this increase comes without significantly reducing the algaes growth rate, the study said. And the oil-like lipids from may potentially be processed in existing refineries and used like diesel.

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Key authors of the new report were Imad Ajjawi and Eric Moellering. Both are from Synthetic Genomics, co-founded by genomics pioneer J. Craig Venter. Go to j.mp/sgbiofuel for the study.

Much more work needs to be done before this strain can be taken out of the lab and commercially produced in the open, the authors said. The yield and growth need to be optimized for outdoor conditions, and environmental regulatory procedures need to be followed. Finally, the lower price of fossil fuels poses a financial barrier to adoption.

These concerns need to be balanced against the potential benefits of biofuel in providing renewable energy. This could be useful for energy security and could reduce damage if future global warming takes place.

Its a step change for us and a turning point in the program, said Rob Brown, another author of the new study and head of the phototrophic team at Synthetic Genomics. We want to get it out in the public domain and show people what weve been doing.

ExxonMobil is taking a long-term view, Brown said.

Vijay Swarup, vice president of research and development of ExxonMobil, discusses his companys view of how research on algae biofuels fits into its long-term commercial goals.

The genetically engineered strain inhibits a suppressor of lipid production. The work was built on the observation that Nannochloropsis produces more lipids in a low-nitrogen environment.

Using various tools, the team identified certain genes that were inhibited in this low-nitrogen environment, then they set out to identify those that regulated lipid production. They found one that met all tests. Using this knowledge, they employed the popular CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system to inhibit that gene.

The work produced three candidate lines. One of them not only produced more lipids, but also maintained a growth rate near that of the unmodified type. That line became the basis of the Nature Biotechnology study.

More lipids are produced because with less nitrogen, its not possible to make as much protein, Moellering said. Protein contains a lot of nitrogen. So the algae uses the photosynthetic energy to make lipids, which are made up of hydrogen and carbon. One of the purposes of the strain is to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, believed to help inhibit global warming.

The energy source is light, in this case from a light bank that weve engineered that mimics the intensity of the sun as the day progresses, Moellering said.

ExxonMobil views biofuels research as a means of coming up with more options for the company and its customers around the world, Vijay Swarup, vice president of research and development, said at a Monday news conference on the study.

The goals to meet are immense, Swarup said, including building up the large-scale industrial capability to grow enough algae. But before any of that can be done, the science must indicate its feasible.

The algae biofuels program was always based on that belief  that you can have something that is fast-producing, doesnt compete with food or fresh water, and can grow in multiple climates, multiple geographies, Swarup said.

The research program has had its times of frustration, he said, but the doubling of biofuel production in algae indicates the program is on the right track.

This is one big step toward this, Swarup said. We still think were several decades away. But were moving one step at a time.

The ExxonMobil/Synthetic Genomics alliance began in 2009 when the companies announced a major partnership to develop algae-based biofuels.

Since then, fossil fuels have staged a major comeback. Contrary to peak oil predictions around the turn of the century, prices have plummeted due to improvements in fracking technology. The same is true for natural gas. Moreover, a huge untapped fossil fuel source, methane hydrates, is being explored.

And the scientific path also proved unexpectedly difficult, Brown said. The original goal was to find natural algae that could be isolated with the desired characteristics.

It was rather ambitiously started in the early days of 2009, when we thought we were going to get wild-type species that would be deployed at industrial scale in these big open ponds, Brown said.

We hit a few roadblocks and reset the program, based on not being able to find a wild-type algal species, he said. Craig (Venter) has mentioned the way to remedy this was to use the bells and whistles in Synthetic Genomics wheelhouse to engineer (improvements in) the best-producers that Mother Nature can provide you.

Brow said the Nature Biotechnology study shows the results of this approach, which was adopted in 2012. By delving into the molecular biology, the team was able to identify an important genetic regulatory mechanism and engineer it to make more biofuel.

While this work is all done in the lab, it will eventually translate into algae ready for testing in an open-pond environment, he said, a step toward scaling up to industrial production.

We have a very patient partner with ExxonMobil, Brown said. They want to get it right by making a commitment to solving the fundamental biology first. Other companies that have attempted this and failed was because they didnt have this long-term vision.

And outdoors production of a genetically modified organism requires approval from state and federal regulators, he said.

So we are a ways out, Brown said. This is still a research program at (Synthetic Genomics).

The outdoor use of genetically modified algae recently got a boost in an unrelated study from UC San Diego and the San Diego-based company Sapphire Egnery.

The study found that genetically engineered algae had no more impact on biodiversity than introduced natural strains, and neither outcompeted strains native to the area.

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UPDATES:

11:35 a.m.: This article was updated with additional details.

This article was originally published at 8 a.m.
San Diego County is the nations second-leading center for genomics research and products, according to a study released Monday by the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp.

The genomics industry contributes $5.6 billion annually to the countys economy, directly creating more than 10,000 jobs, the report said.

The complete study will be available at sandiegobusiness.org/research-center. Its release coincides with the opening of the 2017 convention by BIO, the nations biotechnology trade association, at the San Diego Convention Center.

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Boston narrowly edged out San Diego and third-place San Francisco Bay Area for the top spot, according to EDC research director Kirby Brady. Boston prevailed because of the presence of large pharmaceutical companies and top research organizations such as the Broad Institute, she said.

San Diegos life sciences industry is younger than that of the Bay Area and Boston, she said, so the regions life science infrastructure has had less time to mature. But the countys strengths make up for that relative youth, she said.

To quantify the rankings, the report used objective data as research and venture capital funding, genomics patents and the number of graduates with a genomics education.

San Diego County ranked first in the number of genomics patents, with 371 issued from 2014 to 2016. It also ranked first in the number of genomics-ready graduates, relative to the size of its workforce.

Its educational institutions also grant the most degrees in biochemistry, cognitive science and bioinformatics, the report stated. An average of 1,968 genomics-related degrees are conferred.

Companies located in the county, home to about 1 percent of the American population, received 22 percent of venture capital funding for genomics in 2016, the report found.

San Diegos genomics industry had the advantage of strong local genomics programs in every step of the product chain, Brady said. This begins at basic research at local academic centers to clinical collaborators and ultimately leads to genomics powerhouses such as Illumina in San Diego and Thermo Fisher Scientific in Carlsbad.

What that really means in terms of having all those players in the ecosystem here and the collaboration that we see among these players is that youre able to pioneer these discoveries, license intellectual property, bring these new therapies to market faster in many instances, she said.

The ties work in research as well. Human Longevity, a La Jolla company co-founded by genomics pioneer J. Craig Venter, performs much of its genomic work with Illumina sequencers. And Illumina can discuss how the sequencers perform with Human Longevity.

The difficult task of turning research into commercially friendly products is eased by such groups as the Scripps Translational Science Institute, which span research to commercial partners, she said.

The countys ethnic diversity brings a genetic diversity that also benefits the industry, Brady said. It provides a nearby population that can be included in research and clinical development to ensure that products target the needs of the whole population.

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So youre doing great. Heck, better than great. Whats next?

Its a tricky subject. Nobody likes doing it. Its hard to tell a boss that you believe you are worth more than youre being paid, but frankly there are times and situations when doing so makes absolutely perfect sense. The rule of thumb is that you should be in a job for at least one year before asking for a raise.

Before you step into the boss office and say, Id like to discuss the potential of a raise, do a few things first and make a plan. It should include:

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Gather supporting evidence.

Build a case of facts. Collect any positive emails, letters or other documents extolling your work from clients, co-workers or others.

Review your skills, responsibilities and accomplishments.

Assess them honestly. Look for weaknesses or places where your boss might question you. Figure out your answers in advance.

Know your market value.

How much is someone in your position typically paid. Where does your current salary fit into this picture? Salary sites like www.salary.com and www.jobsmart.org can help.

Be willing to negotiate.

You want to have a figure in mind for a raise, but it might not legitimately be possible for the company to meet that expectation. Negotiate in good faith and expect the same from your boss. If your boss cant satisfy your requested raise, perhaps you can get other perks sweetened: additional vacation days or permission to work from home one day a week, for example. Go into the meeting with a list of options other than cash that mean a lot to you but dont cost the company money.

Be professional.

Make an appointment. Dont corner your boss in the elevator or ambush him at lunch. Make a formal presentation, with all of the necessary bells and whistles. And give the boss time to consider your requests and to get back to you. He may have to get permission from his boss or just get comfortable with the changes you asked for.

And conversely, here are a few things you should not do:

Dont say you need a raise.

No boss wants to hear about your rent increase. Do show why you deserve one.

Dont be afraid.

If you can prove youre worth it, then you are worth it and your boss is likely to welcome the chance to reward you.

Dont make threats.

Scare tactics dont prove anything except that maybe youre not the right person for the job. If you threaten to leave if you dont get the raise, someone may call your bluff and show you the door.

Dont beg.

You want to appear confident in yourself and in your value to the company.

Dont ask for a raise just because someone else got one.

Unless it is an issue for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, every employee should be compensated in relation to his or her own value to the company.

If youve done your homework and the timing is right, a requested raise will likely be yours. Congratulations!

But if it doesnt happen or you dont get everything you asked for and there are lots of legitimate reasons why you didntdo not be disconsolate. Its not the end of the world. Ask your boss for reasons why a raise was not possible. Ask if there is something you can do to better your chances of earning more in the future. Accept any feedback with a professional demeanor and a determination to use the knowledge to improve your value to the company.

Phil Blair is co-founder of Manpower San Diego and author of Job Won. Contact: pblair@manpowersd.com
Several local American Legion Auxiliary groups are sponsoring students to attend the Legions Girls State convention to be held June 26 - July 2 at Claremont McKenna College in Claremont.

The Girls State Program teaches about the workings of government. Participants write a piece of legislation, run and campaign for a state office in a mock election and learn what it means to be a responsible citizen.

American Legion Auxiliary Oceanside Unit 146 is sponsoring three delegates for the 2017 Girls State Session at McKenna College. The group held a Girls State Tea in La Mesa for San Diego ALA District 22 delegates and their families to get acquainted. El Camino High 2016 delegate, Ilona Malinovska was a guest speaker.

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Pictured in the upper photo, from left, Girls State Co-Chairman, Sandee Brookins, Ilona Malinovska, Talesia Johnson, Oceanside High delegate Venus Johnson, 146 Chairman Kim Crone, Fallbrook High delegate Natalie Weber and Nicole Weber.

The American Legion Auxiliary District 22, Unit 731, hosted the San Diego County Girls State Tea to honor delegates chosen to attend Girls State. Pictured in the lower photo, Post 149 Auxiliary representatives and delegates chosen to represent the Escondido American Legion Post 149 Auxiliary from left are Carol Halvorson, chairwoman for Girls State, Averi Fetrow (Escondido Charter High); Guadalupe Madera (Valley Center High); Taylor Cooney (San Pasqual High); Daria Bonds (Escondido High); Lizbeth Flores (Orange Glen High); and Cathy Wathen-Watt, Auxiliary President.
Theories and questions are swirling today about why the Arleigh Burke-class Navy destroyer Fitzgerald couldnt avoid a massive container ship in the dark hours of Saturday morning off Japan.

Its considered one of the worst collisions in decades of U.S. Navy history.

Seven sailors, including two from San Diego County, died. Their bodies were recovered hours later from berthing compartments flooded by the crash.

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The mother of a Navy sailor on board the ship said her son kept diving in his flooded berthing area to try to save his shipmates until the compartment began running out of air pockets.

Mia Sykes of Raleigh, North Carolina, told the Associated Press that her son reported that four men in his compartment died, including those sleeping on bunks above and below him, while three died in the berthing above his.

Welcome to The Intel, a blog examining the hot military news of the day

Three people were injured and were evacuated by helicopter as the Fitzgerald limped back to port. They included the Navy ships commanding officer, whose cabin was destroyed and he was temporarily trapped inside.

Navy investigations have started and it will likely take several months for any results to be released.

Questions and theories

1. Why did the cargo ship, ACX Crystal sailing under the flag of The Philippines, wait nearly an hour after the collision to report the crash?

U.S. Navy officials initially said the crash happened at 2:30 a.m., but that was based on when Japanese authorities received the first call from the Crystal.

The collision apparently happened around 1:30 a.m. just before the Crystal made a series of bizarre, drastic turns.

Heres a video interpretation of the cargo ships course from the website vesselofinterest.com, using ship tracking information from marinetraffic.com.

The Vessel of Interest blog writer has put forth the theory that the cargo ship was on autopilot, without anyone on the ships bridge  and thats why it took so long to report and swing back to look for casualties.

Despite its size, the cargo ship has a crew of 20 people.

Writer Steffan Watkins says:

If you were in the driver seat of a self-driving car, hit another car, and your self-driving car kept driving along the road... how long would it take you to hit the off button? Well, it took the crew of the Crystal, who Im positive were not on the bridge, 15 minutes to find the autopilot off button. Either they were very disoriented by the impact, or they werent on the bridge to begin with, and had to get up to the bridge in order to shut down the autopilot.

The Crystal is operated by Nippon Yusen K.K., a Japanese shipping company, which has said it is cooperating with the Japanese investigation, according to the Washington Post.

As to whether the Fitzgerald crew was following standard protocol for a ship under those conditions, only the investigations will tell.

2. Why wasnt Fitzgeralds captain awakened if another ship was near?

Cmdr. Bryce Benson was commanding officer of the destroyer. He took the post on May 13, after serving prior to that as the ships second in command.

He was asleep in his cabin on the ships starboard side when the collision happened, the Navy has said.

One of the biggest questions to be answered by naval investigations: What kind of orders did Benson leave for the night?

One retired Navy officer who once commanded a similar destroyer told the New York Times that many ship captains leave word to wake them if anything is close.

My orders were always to call me if the C.P.A. (closest point of approach) was less than 5,000 yards, said Bryan McGrath, who commanded the Bulkeley from 2004 to 2006.

3. What about radar?

Both ships would have been outfitted with radar  and an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer would have some of the most sophisticated.

McGrath, writing in a blog post for War on the Rocks, said:

Sometimes, the weather and waves conspire to create cluttered radar pictures. Such clutter is especially prevalent close to the ship, and this clutter can sometimes mask ships, especially small ones, or contribute to not being able to hold a steady track on a contact, thereby creating a confusing evaluation of its course and speed.

Another opening for mistakes happens when sailors on the bridge dont believe what they see on radar, McGrath wrote.

A classic example was in 1996, when the aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt backed into the cruiser Leyte Gulf during a training exercise. Leyte Gulf sailors discounted what they saw on radar because they werent expecting the carrier to take the movement it did.

4. Does a starboard-side collision make it look like the Fitzgerald was at fault?

Maritime rules of the road generally say that vessels should give way to ships on their starboard side. However, experts say the details get complicated in real-world situations.

Asked about that, U.S. Fleet commander Vice Adm. Joseph P. Aucoin declined to speculate during a press conference Sunday in Japan, according to Reuters.

5. Who will be blamed?

The answer to that question must await the investigation results. But even prior to that, experts say it is highly likely that ship captain Benson will be removed from command.

Writing for CNN, retired Rear Adm. John Kirby, a former Navy chief of information, said:

The Navy wont need to complete its findings to hold Cmdr. Benson responsible. He will surely lose his command forthwith. But there will no doubt be others whose performance during the incident will be found wanting, maybe even negligent. They will also be held to account. There may even be courts-martial that result.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

jen.steele@sduniontribune.com

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Twitter: @jensteeley

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The number of people missing or presumed dead in the Grenfell Tower fire in London has risen to 79, British police said.

People react next to tributes to the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire near the site of the blaze in North Kensington, London, Britain, June 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

Commander Stuart Cundy of the Metropolitan police said 5 people have been formally identified out of the 79, adding that some families have lost more than one member and his heart "went out to them".

Cundy said that it was an absolute priority to identify people who died in the building and to remove their remains quickly as possible.

"This is incredibly distressing time for families," he said, "It is really hard to describe the devastation the fire caused. What is important for me is to find answers for those families who have been directly affected."

Cundy told reporters the "awful reality" was that it might not be possible to identify all the victims "due to the intensity of the fire and the devastation within Grenfell Tower" and the operation would take "many, many weeks".

British police released footage from inside the gutted building, showing the extent of the damage caused by the blaze.

Describing the scene inside the 24-story tower in north Kensington Cundy said, "I have been inside there. In my career I have seen terrible scenes, but nothing like this. The conditions due to the fire damage verge on indescribable, which is why this will be such a lengthy operation taking weeks to complete," he said.

Cundy added that the death toll could still change, but not as significantly as it has in recent days.

"I believe there may be people who were in Grenfell Tower that people may not know are missing and may not have realized they were in there on the night," he said. "Equally, there may be people who thankfully managed to escape the fire and for whatever reason have not let their family and friends know that they are safe."

Cundy added that five people who had been reported missing after the disaster have been found safe and well.

A minute's silence was held at 11am across the UK to remember the people who lost their lives and those affected by the fire.

In the wake of the disaster, the government came under fire from residents over the handling of the crisis and threw the state of council housing into the spotlight, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan describing the blaze as a "preventable accident".

On Sunday, the government announced that those left homeless by the fire will be given at least 5,500 pounds ($7,038) from an emergency fund.

Residents will be given 500 pounds in cash per apartment followed by a bank payment for the rest from Monday, with the money coming from the 5 million pound fund announced by British Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday.
A Chula Vista man accused of attacking two women at knifepoint near Balboa Park last year and raping one of them pleaded guilty Monday to felony charges.

Ismael Hernandez Jr., 28, admitted to rape, forcible oral copulation and attempted kidnapping for the purposes of committing rape, along with allegations of kidnapping and use of a deadly or dangerous weapon.

San Diego Superior Court Judge Louis Hanoian accepted the guilty pleas and scheduled a hearing for Oct. 20, when the defendant is expected to be sentenced to 55 years to life in prison.

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According to police and prosecutors, Hernandez attacked a woman on May 5, 2016, as she was walking to her car from a restaurant in the Cortez Hill neighborhood.

He approached the woman from behind with a knife in his hand, but she was able to escape.

Later the same night, Hernandez approached another woman as she was walking on Eighth Avenue near the south end of the park about 9:45 p.m.

Hernandez had a knife in his hand and used it to force the woman to walk with him toward Balboa Park. Once they got there, the defendant forced the woman to take off her clothes, and he sexually assaulted her.

He then forced her to walk to Ninth Avenue, where he sexually assaulted the woman again in a secluded area near an apartment complex in the Cortez Hill neighborhood.

Deputy District Attorney Judy Taschner said Hernandez was with the second woman for approximately two hours that night.

When the ordeal was over, and Hernandez had run off, the woman was able to flag down someone to help her and called police.

Originally, Hernandez faced 10 felony charges stemming from the attacks. The other charges were dismissed in light of the guilty pleas.

According to court documents, he has a criminal history that includes convictions for robbery, street racing and using a camera to record someone in a private area. On Monday, he admitted in court that he has a strike on his record from a robbery conviction in June 2012.

dana.littlefield@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @danalittlefield

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Police arrest man in Balboa Park rape case

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Rebekah Israel said she had waited years for the moment when she would receive her high school diploma while wearing an eagle feather, a power symbol that represents a rite of passage for her and other Native Americans.

But then the moment was stolen from her, she said, as a woman from her school tried to snatch the feather from her mortarboard and scolded her for wearing it.

I felt really embarrassed, so I just cried right away, she said about her graduation ceremony in June 2016. I just grabbed the diploma really fast and rushed off the stage.

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Its still difficult for the 19-year-old Santee resident to talk about the incident that happened a year ago at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, where she was graduating with other students from the Charter School of San Diego.

We went over there, and Rebekah was just torn apart, said her mother, Kiana Maillet. She told me that this woman looked at her feather and said, Youre not allowed to wear that, and she reached for it. Nobodys allowed to touch our feather. Were supposed to protect them. She just broke down on stage in front of everyone.

Similar incidents happen to Native Americans each year in California, but a bill with broad support by legislators could change that for the class of 2018. Israel lent her support by speaking about her experience before an Assembly subcommittee earlier this year.

I told them I dont want other students to feel upset when theyre walking and wearing their graduation cap, she said.

Israel was testifying in support of Assembly Bill 233, which already has passed the Assembly and just last week passed the Senate Education Committee. The bill, sponsored by Assemblyman Todd Gloria, D-San Diego, is headed for the Senate Judiciary Committee next.

As Gloria explained, the bill would allow students in California public schools to wear adornments that represent their cultural or religion during graduation ceremonies.

In Israels case, the adornment was an eagle feather, a symbol of strength and freedom to Native Americans. If the bill becomes law, all schools would have to allow religious-cultural symbols.

Jackie Robertson, communications specialist for the Charter School of San Diego, said the school does have rules against adornments at graduation, but would support the bill.

The Charter School of San Diego always wants to be supportive and cooperative, and if AB233 passes, we will support it 100 percent, she said. Currently, our policy is to not allow any sort of adornment on graduation attire because every year we have many diverse requests. Some of them are credible and some of them are not so credible. It would be helpful to the students and schools if the bills language were specific to help create fair and equitable guidelines.

Adornments on mortarboards are very common at college and university graduations, but many high schools have strict rules about prohibiting any items that would disrupt the uniform look of rows of graduates in matching caps and gowns.

Every year, those rules clash with the sentiments of Native Americans students like Israel.

When I was little, I grew up watching all my cousins and family friends get eagle feathers when they graduated from high school, she said. So Id been waiting for it since I was 10 years old.

Mark Vezzola, an attorney at the California Indian Legal Services Escondido office, said he hears similar complaints during graduation season each year.

Our position is that by denying a student the right to wear an eagle feather or another culturally significant item, they are being denied essentially their freedom of speech or freedom of expression, Vezzola said.

Those are powerful symbols in the Native American community, and I just dont think people understand that, he added. Theyre more than decorations.

Sometimes the issues are resolved with discussions, and sometimes there has been legal action by the Native Americans Rights Fund in Boulder, Colo., he said.

Finally, we thought, Why not take a different approach? Vezzola said. Maybe theres a way to protect these rights through California law.

Gloria said he was contacted by California Indian Legal Services to work on a bill, and he suspects he may have been asked because he is the only state legislator who also is a voting member of a tribe.

Although he describes himself as a mutt, Gloria also is a member of the Tlingit Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska.

Theres a level of common sense involved here, Gloria said about allowing students to wear feathers, beads or other items on their caps at graduation. Why is that disruptive, and who would have an issue with it?

Gloria said the bill still would allow schools to have a say in what students wear during their ceremonies, but there would be exceptions for cultural and religious items.

These students are not asking for political statements or other sorts of things, but to just show pride in their culture, he said. In a lot of ways, this is speech guaranteed under the Constitution. The bill is meant to get away from this madness.

gary.warth@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @GaryWarthUT

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Officers have arrested a 29-year-old suspected drunken driver who they say abandoned his Jeep Cherokee on Interstate 15 early Saturday that was then hit by several vehicles, killing one motorist.

The driver, David Armando Olvera of Chula Vista, was being held without bail in county jail on suspicion of second-degree murder, gross vehicular manslaughter and other charges.

California Highway Patrol Officer Jake Sanchez said investigators believe Olvera walked away from his Jeep, leaving it blocking freeway lanes, on south I-15 just north of Friars Road around 2:50 a.m. Saturday.

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Investigators are trying to determine if Olvera crashed into a freeway wall or spun out prior to fleeing. We know that left his vehicle in the freeway lanes and left the scene, Sanchez said.

A Spring Valley man, identified as 40-year-old Gregory Lawrence Scott, was killed when he crashed his Honda Fit into the Jeep. Three other vehicles also hit the Jeep, with one driver suffering minor injuries, Sanchez said.

It is being bounced around, being hit multiple times, and one of the persons suffers fatal injuries from running into the car, Sanchez said.

Olvera was arrested about six hours after the fatal crash. He was found inside a residence in Serra Mesa, a few miles from where his Jeep was abandoned, Sanchez said.

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A man died after his car smashed through a fence and landed upside down in a drainage ditch in Sorrento Valley Monday, authorities said.

The crash was reported shortly before 11 a.m. on Roselle Street near Tansy Street. The driver, who was not identified, was driving a Mini Cooper north on Interstate 5 when he exited at Sorrento Valley Road at a high rate of speed, said San Diego police Officer Dino Delimitros.

He failed to stop at the bottom of the ramp and the car went flying off the road, coming to rest on its roof in the ditch. The man was was extricated from the car and taken to a hospital, where he died, said San Diego police Officer Billy Hernandez.

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He later was identified as Giovanny Cantero, 26, of San Diego.

The Sorrento Valley Road off-ramp from northbound Interstate 5 was shut down while officers investigated.

karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com
Even good cops get complaints.

So how does a supervisor recognize when on-the-job behavior is a red flag, or a sign that an officer is struggling?

The San Diego Police Department just took the wrapping off a system designed to help zero in on potentially worrisome behavior that, if left unchecked, could spiral into misconduct.

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The program  called an early-intervention system  tracks 21 officer behaviors. These include officer-involved shootings, civilian complaints, use of force, and positive commendations.

If the data collected picks up unusual or potentially problematic behavior, it sends up a red flag. Then a supervisor can work with officers to decide if on-the-job stress or personal problems are to blame, and connect them with help.

Every person responds and reacts differently to the stressors of this job, and it can be hard as a supervisor to keep up with that, San Diego police Lt. Scott Wahl said. Now theyll have access to some data that will help them gauge the wellness of their employees at any given time.

The program cant predict what an officer will do next. And the department emphasized that an officer might get picked up by the system even when all is well. But experts say if its employed correctly, it can identify behaviors that, without intervention, might lead to problems.

The department already had an early intervention system but committed to the overhaul after a federal audit found flaws in the way the department identified problematic officers.

Former Police Chief William Lansdowne asked for the audit in February 2014 after a spate of misconduct allegations against San Diego officers including domestic violence, rape and drunken driving.

One former officer, Anthony Arevalos, was convicted of soliciting sexual favors from women during traffic stops.

In these instances, supervisors were not engaged with the behaviors and actions of their subordinates, the report said. Had there been regular dialogue and interaction in the field, these supervisors may have been able to intervene before these behaviors escalated to misconduct.

With the new program  called IAPro  online, the department has implemented all 40 reforms identified during the yearlong federal review. Other recommendations touched on community partnerships, supervision and training. It was a promise San Diego police Chief Shelley Zimmerman made soon after becoming chief.

Yes, we implemented every single one after a lot of hard work, but were not stopping, Zimmerman said. We will continue to look for best practices in everything we do.

The department stressed the system is not tied to discipline. Employees who end up meeting with their supervisors will even review a form that specifies they are not being disciplined.

The subject of discipline sparked concerns during talks with officers about the system, said Brian Marvel, president of the San Diego Police Officers Association.

Officers also wanted to know if information collected by the system could affect promotions, who was going to have access to it and if theyd be able to review it or contest it.

The usefulness of the system depends on and is not a replacement for adequate, properly trained and qualified supervision, Marvel said. We look at this as another tool in the toolbox.

Early intervention programs emerged in the late 1970s and early 80s to help prevent police misconduct, said Samuel Walker, who has been studying intervention systems for decades. Walker, an emeritus professor at the University of Nebraska Omaha, wrote a number of manuals on early intervention systems for the Department of Justice.

By 1989, a report by the International Association of Chiefs of Police was recommending them as a means of controlling corruption and building integrity.

A number of early adopters saw successes. Police departments in Florida, Louisiana and Minnesota saw citizen complaints and use of force fall among officers who received interventions in the early 1990s.

The San Diego department received a grant in 2005 to develop its first early intervention system. That program tracked fewer indicators and was less user-friendly.

The system has matured into a more well-rounded accountability tool that is used by different departments in very different ways, according to the Police Executive Research Forum.

Some agencies embrace it as a management tool and use the data for performance evaluations and when making assignment decisions. Others, like San Diego, primarily use the system to connect officers who may be experiencing personal or professional problems with resources like counseling, peer support or a chaplain.

So how does the department go about identifying these officers?

The agency has set a threshold for each behavior based on average occurrences for particular assignments. A use of force threshold for an officer assigned to the downtown bike detail might be higher, for example, than a patrol officer less likely to get into altercations.

If an officer or civilian staff member crosses a threshold, the data is verified and then sent to a direct supervisor.

That supervisors response will vary, depending on each employees circumstance. Crossing a threshold, in and of itself, isnt alarming, police leaders said. An employee could be doing everything right and still exceed one.

This will track some of those indicators so a supervisor will better be able to decide how best to respond, Wahl said. Does a conversation need to be had? Does an employee need some extra support?

San Diego police Sgt. Daniel Meyer said the departments wellness unit will be an integral part of every intervention, should one occur.

Every wellness check will be very specific to that individual and that individuals needs, he said. If, in the process, we determine something that can be done by the department to ease a stress that theyre going through, for example, then were going to do whatever we can to make that happen.

Walker said many officer performance problems stem from personal problems. And while police departments have long-standing systems in place to discipline officers who violate a procedure, there were far fewer systems in place to address the underlying issue.

Traditional police discipline often fails to engage an officer, Walker said. If personal problems are the root cause, then you need to engage that person. There needs to be a certain amount of social work involved.

Twitter: @LAWinkley

(619) 293-1546

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The San Diego Police Department is largely alone in its hiring and retention problems within the county, and it may be no coincidence that every other city pays better and some are finding ways to hire faster.

While San Diego is running short by more than 200 officers, many other police agencies locally and some around the nation are at full staffing, or close to it. They say they receive sufficient numbers of qualified applicants to meet their needs.

San Diego is budgeted for 2,039 sworn officer positions, but had just 1,834 of those positions filled as of the end of May.

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Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman has repeatedly apprised the City Council of her staffing woes, which she blames on comparative low pay and benefits as well as negative depictions of law enforcement by news media and through social media.

A national expert on police recruiting, training and ethics issues agrees, seeing the nation generally facing a looming crisis in hiring.

The American policing profession may be facing the most fundamental questioning of its legitimacy in decades, Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum in Washington, D.C., said in a recent report. The very essence of policing is being debated in many cities, often because of controversial video recordings of police officers actions.

He noted public trust is eroding at the same time large numbers of officers are being killed in the line of duty.

Other police departments faced with these challenges are finding solutions.

They have increased pay, and found that the speed of the hiring process makes a difference in keeping up with attrition. Further, some have adopted more progressive views on past minor drug use and the acceptability of tattoos so they eliminate fewer job applicants. Many offer one or more paid days off to any officer who recruits a new hire.

Brian Marvel, president of the San Diego Police Officers Association, said pay and benefits are the No. 1 reason recruits choose other agencies, or stay long enough to get training, then transfer to another city or state.

The citys benefits and retirement used to be enough to attract recruits, despite the lower pay, but those have eroded in recent years, Marvel said.

A San Diego police officer fresh out of the academy earns $4,166 a month, compared with $5,730 in La Mesa, $4,910 for sheriffs deputies, $5,243 in El Cajon and the highest pay in the county, $6,123 in Chula Vista.

San Diego officers took a pay cut in 2009, and havent had a raise since. Officers will receive a 3.3 percent raise in July 2018.

Zimmerman, who is seeking one additional position next year, has said shed like San Diego to pay its officers more.

Leaders of other police agencies agree that pay and benefits are important, especially for the bulk of todays applicants  millennials.

Millennials know what retirement benefits are, they pay attention to salaries and benefits, San Diego County sheriffs Capt. L. James Bovet said. He noted that a younger generation knows how to comparison shop instantly, with their smartphones. A lot of these kids are definitely shopping agencies.

San Diegos pay also falls short of what new officers make in many comparably sized jurisdictions around the U.S. Academy graduates in Columbus, Ohio, make $4,494 a month, while the police department in Austin, Texas, pays $4,390.

Those agencies face the same recruiting hurdles as San Diego, such as competition with nearby agencies, greater public scrutiny of their actions and a new generation of officers who are willing to change departments to chase higher pay.

Zimmerman, like chiefs at many police agencies, traces major hiring and retention problems to the start of the Great Recession in 2008-09. With pay and hiring freezes looming, hundreds of San Diego officers retired to preserve their benefits. In all, 260 officers left in 2009, Marvel said.

By 2011, the departments attrition rate averaged six more officers leaving each month than were hired. The attrition rate climbed to 12 per month the next year and is up to 13.

In San Diego County, seven of the nine local police departments and the Sheriffs Department are fully staffed or short by only a couple of officers.

Chula Vista is down by five officers but is funding five more positions in the next fiscal year. Oceanside is short 15 officers. An Oceanside police spokesman said eight to 10 open positions is more typical.

Lt. Scott Wahl, San Diegos police spokesman, said it isnt fair to compare his agencys hiring difficulties with much smaller departments.

Smaller agencies may not have the same issues, Wahl said. If we were trying to hire five people a year, we could do that right away. Were looking to hire 200.

He added that even if every officer in the county got the same pay, San Diego cops have a tougher work environment. San Diego officers go to more calls, get in more violent situations and get shot at more. The San Diego officers working harder for that same buck, Wahl said.

Departments have learned that acting swiftly to screen applicants also can help. Carlsbad and National City streamlined the processing of applicant background checks  and now can make job offers faster than other departments.

A year ago, Carlsbad was down 14 officers. It has since hired all but two of its 115 budgeted positions. The improvement came after they contracted out background checks, getting more done at a time, said Carlsbad Sgt. Steve Thomas.

Recruits take the first job offered to them, Thomas said. Lateral hires (from other police departments) can be pickier. We were ready for the retirements, and started background checks ahead of them.

The Austin Police Department put its 37-page application online and got such a huge response that it actually bogged down the rest of its hiring process. Austin police Sgt. Matthew Fortes said his agency used to receive 1,000 applications a year, but after the department put the process online in December, it got 1,500 in four months.

Wahl said San Diego has been streamlining, too, and now it can take as little as three months to get hired, instead of up to two years. The department put more detectives in the unit that runs background checks, and began making conditional job offers before the required medical evaluation was finished.

San Diego has not gone to online applications, but is looking into it. We have to look at the entire process, said Wahl.

Zimmerman has frequently cited a general negative public feeling toward police as a factor in recruiting and retention difficulties.

When she was promoted to chief three years ago, the department had endured a string of officer misconduct cases, with some officers being convicted of rape, domestic violence and selling drugs.

Wahl said some recruits who dropped out of the hiring process specifically cited violence against officers as a reason. Some also cited the negative light cast on an El Cajon police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black man who pointed a vaping device at him.

But not every police official agrees that YouTube videos of questionable police shootings or news coverage of officers being murdered on the job stop people from applying.

I havent seen it, said Coronado police Capt. Lazlo Waczek. I dont think people who go into this job think theyll be put in that position of using deadly force.

Its either a calling or its not, El Cajon police Capt. Frank LaHaye said of his profession. Ive seen over the years  when the economys good, more jobs are available and people pick jobs that fit their lifestyle better. When the economys bad, we get lots of applicants.
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Southwestern College was placed on lockdown for about an hour Monday afternoon after a male, possibly armed with a gun, was seen running toward the Chula Vista campus, police said.

A suspect was taken into custody, and a replica handgun was recovered, according to a statement from the college.

The gunman was first spotted by school officials at Bonita Vista High School on Otay Lakes Road around 12:30 p.m., Chula Vista police Lt. Miriam Byron said. Soon after, he was seen heading toward the nearby college toting what appeared to be a handgun.

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Police informed the college of the possible threat and school officials locked the school down. A gunman was not located and the lockdown was lifted about 2:10 p.m.

Campus Police were confident the suspect was no longer on campus and lifted the lockdown, the colleges statement said

Summer school is in session at Bonita High School, but its unclear if the male is a student there.

When the lockdown went into effect, students were quick to barricade themselves in classrooms. Southwestern College Adjunct Professor Shannon Pagano said her psychology students flipped off the lights and placed extra tables in front of locked doors and windows. Then they huddled in a corner of the room, and waited for the all clear.

We arent talking in the classroom. Everyone is huddled in the corner on their phones, she said via Facebook.

Some children also were on campus, participating in the College for Kids program. They, too, were locked inside classroom. Once the lockdown was lifted, campus police officers escorted them to a parking lot where their parents had been instructed to pick them up, Southwestern Colleges statement said.

Twitter: @LAWinkley

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Actor Miles Teller was arrested on being suspicion of being drunk in public early Sunday morning in Pacific Beach, San Diego police said.

The 30-year-old man was swinging side-to-side and slurring his speech when he was approached by police on Mission Boulevard near Thomas Avenue shortly before 12:30 a.m., said Officer Billy Hernandez.

As officers were talking with him, Teller lost his balance and almost fell into the street, Hernandez said. So at that point they determined he was unable to care for himself and placed him under arrest, he said.

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Teller was first taken to a detox center but he was uncooperative with staff, Hernandez said, so officers took him to jail where he was booked on suspicion of being drunk in public. He was released later that day.

Teller, who has appeared in such movies as Whiplash, Rabbit Hole and War Dogs, said via Twitter that he had been detained by police, not arrested.

Went down to SD to see my buddy before he deployed. I wasnt arrested I was detained (because) there was no evidence to charge me with a crime, Teller tweeted.

karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com
Trapped together in the flooded hold of the destroyer Fitzgerald following a collision with a cargo ship in the Philippines Sea late last week, sailors Shingo Douglass and Carlos Victor Hitch Sibayan are remembered today as brave and kind men who loved unto death their country, their shipmates and their Navy.

Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from Oceanside, and Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlos Victor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, were two of the seven sailors discovered dead in the berthing areas of the warship on Saturday, according to the Japan-based Seventh Fleet.

Officials released their names on Fathers Day, following next of kin notifications to their family members.

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There was never a time that Carlos wasnt making people laugh, said Temeculas Chase Cornils, a fellow cadet in Chaparral High Schools Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. He always had a cheerful attitude and a smile on his face. When I think of Carlos, I can only remember an extremely happy guy who was willing to help all of his friends.

The other deceased sailors include:

Gunners Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Va.

Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Conn.

Gunners Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas.

Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Md.

Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio.

My minds going a mile a minute, said Douglass father, retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Stephen Douglass. Were still in sort of a state of shock.

At around 2:20 a.m. local time on June 17 while sailing about 64 miles south of Honshu, Japan, the Fitzgerald collided with the ACX Crystal, a Philippine-flagged container ship that was nearly four times the destroyers size when fully loaded.

Extensively damaged both above and below the waterline, the $2 billion Arleigh Burke-class guilded missile destroyer slowly returned to the U.S. naval base at Yokosuka, Japan, sluicing water from the flooded hold as sailors toiled to keep the warship afloat.

Photographs of the crumbled warship released by the Navy to The San Diego Union-Tribune reveal extensive damage underneath the destroyers pilothouse on the starboard side. The Navy also has identified a large puncture below the waterline, most likely caused by the bow of the ACX Cyrstal, a vessel that sustained relatively light damage.

Most of the crew wouldve been sleeping during the impact and an investigation has been launched to determine what happened, Navy officials said.

Vice Adm. Joseph Aucoin, commander of the Seventh Fleet, said in prepared remarks during a Saturday press conference that three of the warships compartments flooded, including a machinery room and a berthing area used by 116 of the destroyers crew.

The crews response was swift and effective, and I want to point out  as we stand by the ship  how proud I am of them, Aucoin said.

Heroic efforts prevented the flooding from catastrophically spreading which could have caused the ship to founder or sink. It could have been much worse, he added.

The ships skipper, Cmdr. Bryce Benson, was sleeping in his cabin when the ships collided. He was injured and evacuated from the destroyer by helicopter.

Although Benson assumed command of The Fitz recently  May 13  he took the helm after fleeting up, serving as the warships executive officer since 2015. He also had served as the commander of a minesweeper.

This is the best ship and the best crew on the waterfront, hands down! said Benson at his change of command ceremony. I am proud to work alongside the Navys best and brightest men and women who protect and support the Pacific region and our allies.

Douglass enlisted in the Navy in 2014 and joined the destroyer in early 2015, following entry level training at Naval Station Great Lakes and in Mississippi.

Like many junior sailors, his initial duties involved sanding and painting the ship, hauling the lines and raising and lowering life rafts.

In a Navy press release issued shortly after he came aboard the Fitzgerald, he enjoyed serving in Japan, working with the Japanese Navy and getting underway frequently.

In late 2016, Douglass was temporarily assigned to the destroyer Barry while it was on patrol with Carrier Strike Group Five, which included the destroyer Stethem and the carrier Ronald Reagan.

On Oct. 20, Douglass and his fellow shipmates visited the Aikwangwon Orphanage in South Korea as part of community service project. Photographs of the visit show him wheeling a disabled orphan in a wheelchair.

He was promoted in May.

A 2010 Fallbrook High School graduate, Douglass was an avid videogame player and a really good kid who followed in his dads footsteps because military service was important to the family, according to his father.

He was never married and is survived by his retired Marine father, a career expert on the avionics of the CH-53E Super Stallion, and mother, Ritsuko Douglass.

Friends recalled Sibayan as driven to enlist in the Navy as soon as he graduated high school. Classmate Cornils said he felt like it was his calling.

I knew he was extremely excited to join and start his career in the navy and serve our country. He wanted to start as soon as he could, Cornils added.

He joined the Navy on April 3, 2013. After entry level training at Great Lakes and in Virginia, he reported to the Fitzgerald on July 31, 2014.

An Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, he had been promoted on Jan. 16, 2016.

Because the ACX Crystal is owned and operated by a Japanese corporation, Tokyos investigators already have begun probing the cause of the mishap.

Japanese Coast Guard rescuers rushed to aid both vessels after the collision inside the bustling shipping corridor, but authorities in Tokyo later said that none of the 20 crew members aboard the merchant ship had been injured.

Satellite tracking of the ships appeared to show that ACX Crystal never veered from her path over a long distance before crashing into the Fitzgerald. And the destroyer never appeared to give way to the larger vessel until it was too late.

In a written statement to the Union-Tribune on Sunday, acting Secretary of the Navy Sean Stackley vowed to find out what went wrong.

As details emerge, we can all be proud of the heroic effort by the crew to tend to the needs of those injured and save the ship from further damage while returning safely to port, he wrote. The Navy family comes together during tragic events such as this and I want to thank those who continue to provide around-the-clock assistance to the affected families during these difficult days

I also want to express my most heartfelt appreciation to our Japanese allies for their swift support and assistance at this time of our need.In due time, the United States Navy will fully investigate the cause of this tragedy and I ask all of you to keep the Fitzgerald families in your thoughts and prayers as we begin the task of answering the many questions before us.



Twitter: @jptstewart

joshua.stewart@sduniontribune.com

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The consumer group suing state utility regulators over costs related to the failed San Onofre nuclear plant is demanding that customers stopped being charged for its premature closure.

San Diego attorney Maria Severson and Ray Lutz of Citizens Oversight told the California Public Utilities Commission on Monday that the charges are not appropriate given findings this month by an international arbitration court. A three-member tribunal of the International Chamber of Commerce ruled that majority plant owner Southern California Edison was not the victim of fraud after replacement steam generators installed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries failed.

The court also rejected Edisons request for almost $9 billion in damages. It awarded damages of $125 million and ordered the utility to pay Mitsubishis $58 million legal bills.

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The recent arbitration tribunals decision reflects SCEs admissions that its decisions to proceed with the design were taken in spite of what was then known, the filing Monday states. Accordingly, allowing further years of collection until a decision is made as to the propriety of charging ratepayers is patently unreasonable.

Customers of Edison and minority plant owner San Diego Gas & Electric Co. are paying millions of dollars per month in San Onofre-related costs even though the plant has not produced any power since 2012.

In 2014, the commission approved a deal that assigns 70 percent of nearly $5 billion in closure costs to customers rather than company shareholders. A framework for the agreement was discussed at an undisclosed meeting in Poland in 2013 between Edison and the former commission president.

Severson and law partner Michael Aguirre sued the commission and Edison in court, alleging the deal was improper and should be overturned.

The lawsuit was dismissed by a judge in San Diego but an appellate court revived the complaint last year and utility officials subsequently agreed to present their case to a mediator. The confidential mediation sessions began last week and conclude later this month.

Edison spokeswoman Maureen Brown said the motion is premature.

The settlement agreement remains in place, and the amounts being collected are consistent with that settlement, she said.

Watchdog Videos On Now Sexual misconduct accusers worry deputy is being protected 6:16 On Now City funded $2-million waterfront bathroom 1:26 On Now Public water district charges customer for legal work, response to records request On Now Video: Tiny homes won't be reused amid housing, homeless crisis On Now Attorney General seeks documentation for Miss Middle East On Now Rep. Hunter probe covers possible fraud On Now Video: SDG&E delaying solar credit for some low-income housing tenants On Now Video: Former San Diego Junior Theatre teacher sentenced for sex with teen girl 0:24 On Now Video: Shelter volunteers believe they were fired for finding a dog a home 0:49 On Now McKamey Manor is leaving San Diego 3:35

jeff.mcdonald@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1708 @sdutMcDonald
Rocket From the Crypt front man John Reis got his stolen Gibson Les Paul Custom guitar back after someone tried to sell it online.

The rocker, along with some help from his friends, conducted his own sting operation to retrieve it.

We implemented our own brown ops, declared the rocker on a Saturday post on his Instagram page he titled GUITAR UN-STOLEN.

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Snagged it back from two ultra-sketch, haggard, tweek aficionados, he declared.

The late 70s early 80s silver sparkle guitar was taken from the musicians van on June 10 from the parking lot of Singing Serpents studio in Kensington. Reis, aka The Swami, was rehearsing there with another one of his bands the Hot Snakes. He said the vehicle was just feet away and that he could see it out the window.

A few days later, the guitar, without the blue sailfish stickers on the front, was for sale on the website OfferUp. Reis knew it was his and took action.

Reis told 7 San Diego that he called the police and was told that a detective could not get back to him right away. So Reis took matters into his own hands.

Reis said he had a friend offer to buy the instrument and they arranged to make the transaction at a North Park grocery store lot. When they arrived, they confronted the sellers who denied having the guitar. But when one of the men walked away, Reis spotted it in the back of the mens van. He confirmed it was his and confiscated it.

Soooo happy to have my guitar back!!! So happy to have so many rad friends all over the world that chimed in, spread the word and offered hope, he wrote on his triumphant Instagram post. Thank youuuu.

Reis said he will provide the police with photos of the sellers, their van and the ad they placed.

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A heat advisory continues until 9 p.m. Wednesday in San Diego County and officials are reminding residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves as temperatures soar into the triple digits,especially when hiking on popular waterfall trails in the Cleveland National Forest.

The National Weather Service excessive heat warning for the deserts has been in effect since 11 a.m. Friday. A less severe heat advisory is in place for the inland region. That advisory will also be in effect until 9 p.m. Wednesday, with the weather service predicting high temperatures in the inland valley of 95 to 101 degrees on Monday and 96 to 103 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday.

A similar heat advisory in the mountain areas with elevations lower than 5,000 feet, which includes Julian and Pine Valley, remains until 9 p.m. Wednesday. High temperatures in those areas are predicted to reach 92 to 102 degrees over the weekend and 96 to 104 degrees Monday through Wednesday.

The hottest weather is expected in the deserts, where high temperatures were predicted to reach 111 to 116 degrees Sunday, 113 to 118 degrees Monday, 115 to 120 degrees Tuesday, and 114 to 119 degrees Wednesday.

Temperatures along the coast and in the western valleys will be somewhat cooler, but still 5 to 10 degrees above average, according to the weather service.

With high temperatures expected ... county health officials are reminding the public to ... pay extra attention to children, elderly, and pets,' county spokesman Tom Christensen said.

Meanwhile authorities from the San Diego County Sheriffs Department and Cleveland National Forest are warning hikers to use extreme caution while hiking at Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls, a pair of popular water hikes made more appealing during hot weather.

Rescuers evacuated several hikers from Three Sisters Trails east of Ramona and south of Julian on Saturday, airlifting two to area hospitals and assisting three others, officials reported.

With extremely steep slopes (and) a rugged and eroding trail, the(Three Sisters Falls) hike is listed as strenuous to extreme, and is suggested for those in good physical condition,' sheriffs department spokesman Ryan Keim said. Couple this with extreme summer heat, no shade and rocky, unstable terrain, and many hikers quickly find themselves overwhelmed and under prepared.

The 6.6-mile hike to Cedar Creek Falls in Ramona is considered moderate to strenuous, provides no shade and is completely uphill on the way out, Keim said. Sheriffs Search and Rescue volunteers and deputies in the sheriffs ASTREA helicopters have this year already responded to 24 incidents of distressed hikers at Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls. In 2016, rescuers responded to 51 calls to those areas.

Hikers and others planning to go outdoors are advised to stay in groups,keep hydrated, dress for the heat in light and breathable clothing, take regular breaks and stay indoors if the heat becomes overwhelming. County officials also advised residents to stay in air conditioning during the hottest hours of the day, take cool showers, avoid using the oven to cook and avoid unnecessary sun exposure.

The hot weather will increase the risk of heat-related illness and anyone working or spending time outdoors would be more susceptible, as will senior citizens, children, and those unaccustomed to the heat. Forecasters advised residents to reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening and authorities also warned against leaving children or pets in parked cars, which can heat up to lethal levels in just minutes.

Among county-designated Cool Zones are Ramona Library, 1275 Main St., and Ramona Community Center, 434 Aqua Lane.
Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/19/2017 -- It has been analyzed that less time, affordable living and inclination towards different flavours has persuaded the breakfast foods market, particularly in China. To present a clear picture, Market Research Hub (MRH) has recently added an analyzed report titled as "Breakfast Foods - China - May 2017" to its vast database that offers in-depth analysis and insight supported by a range of data. The report provides the decisive guidance towards the breakfast foods market in China using crucial driving factors.



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The consumer population in China have been shifted towards out-of-home breakfast venue, especially convenience stores that offer convenience, value for money and a variety of choices. This increases the competition level between them and other international out-of-home breakfast venues. However, Chinese still favor their cuisine. So by just adding Chinese ingredients or flavours into trendy Western breakfast foods will boost their appeal and meet the competition level. Along with it the other factors can be the interiors and the cost that may impact the growth of the breakfast foods venues in China.



The study commences with the executive summary of the market that shows that the market is enjoying a stable growth and out-of-home breakfast spending is more than in-home spending in urban areas. It further elaborates the key players and the consumer tactics. The key players show that the breakfast cereal manufacturers increase focus on cold cereals and nut flavours, convenience stores launch freshly-made coffee and soymilk, fast food chains launch full meals and localized foods and the packaged breakfast foods improve their portability and satiety. The consumer analysis shows that breakfast at home is still most popular, convenience stores are rising, consumers are sticking to Chinese breakfast foods and Granola has the potential to become the next star.



Browse Full Report with TOC - http://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/breakfast-foods-china-may-2017-report.html



Moving in the next section, the issues & insights, the market and market size & forecast is discussed. The provided analysis has forecasted the market in China that is expected to continue with the growth momentum, evaluated from 2011-21. Additionally, the market drivers are analyzed alongside the continuous urbanization, shifting to out-of-home breakfast locales and trading up to more nutritious breakfasts. Lastly, it has segmented the market along with the key players and the competitive strategies of the breakfast food market. The innovations of the market are discussed involving the evolution of breakfast cereals into portable formats, yogurts becoming more filling, and the family marts that offer customized value breakfast meal sets. The report suspends with the future trend of the breakfast foods, the nutritional needs, and the general behaviors of the breakfast.



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United States Frosting & Icing Market Report 2017 - http://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/united-states-frosting-and-icing-market-report-2017-report.html



Global Sourdoughs Market Research Report 2017 - http://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/global-sourdoughs-market-research-report-2017-report.html



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Market Research Hub (MRH) is a next-generation reseller of research reports and analysis. MRH's expansive collection of market research reports has been carefully curated to help key personnel and decision makers across industry verticals to clearly visualize their operating environment and take strategic steps.



MRH functions as an integrated platform for the following products and services: Objective and sound market forecasts, qualitative and quantitative analysis, incisive insight into defining industry trends, and market share estimates. Our reputation lies in delivering value and world-class capabilities to our clients.



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Austin, TX -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/19/2017 -- TRI Air Testing, Inc., a compressed air/gas testing laboratory, will be present at BIO 2017 as part of the Texas Delegation. TRI Air Testing, Inc. was invited through the Small Business Development office of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, whose mission is dedicated to economic development, business recruitment and job creation in the State of Texas.



For more information, visit www.texaswideopenforbusiness.com.



TRI Air Testing, Inc. was founded in Austin, Texas in 1975 and is proud to represent Texas at the BIO 2017 International Convention. TRI's patented air/gas sampling equipment was designed originally for the U.S. Navy Diver's compressed air quality sampling 41 years ago and continues to hold the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard air sampling contract. Over the years, TRI has gained vast experience servicing a wide variety of industries.



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The BIO International Convention, taking place in San Diego, June 19th-22nd 2017, attracts 16,000 biotechnology and pharma leaders who come together to bring a wide spectrum of life science and application areas, including drug discovery, biomanufacturing, genomics, biofuels, nanotechnology and cell therapy. The first BIO Convention was in 1993; since then it has become the largest global event for biotechnology with keynotes over the years from scientists, CEOs and celebrities such as Will Smith, President Bill Clinton, Sir Elton John among others.



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Media Contact:

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Company: TRI Air Testing

Phone: 512-775-2206

Email: smatulewski@tri-intl.com

Website: www.airtesting.com
An international team of researchers led by University of Exeter archaeologists has discovered the ruins of an ancient city  once thought to be the home of giants  in eastern Ethiopia.

The discovery reveals new information about the origins of international trade and Islam in Ethiopia between the 10th and early 15th centuries CE.

This is the first evidence which proves eastern Ethiopia was well connected with the Gulf, Egypt and India hundreds of years ago and highlights how skilled craftsmen traded with communities around the world and lived alongside people from different areas around the Indian Ocean and Red Sea.

This discovery revolutionizes our understanding of trade in an archaeologically neglected part of Ethiopia, explained Timothy Insoll, an archaeologist and Al-Qasimi Professor of African and Islamic archaeology at the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, UK.

Harlaa, which is 75 miles (120 km) from the Red Sea coast and 186 miles (300 km) from Addis Adaba, was a rich, cosmopolitan center for jewelry making and pieces were then taken to be sold around the region and beyond.

The residents of Harlaa were a mixed community of foreigners and local people who traded with others in the Red Sea, Indian Ocean and possibly as far away as the Arabian Gulf.

The settlement has buildings and walls constructed with large stone blocks  leading local people to assume only those with enormous stature or strength could have built it, and encouraging legends about giants having inhabited the region.

The archaeological findings suggest this place was home to a very mixed community, Prof. Insoll said.

Local people were extremely keen for us to solve mysteries. Farmers had been finding strange objects, including Chinese coins, as they were working on their land, and a legend began that the area was home to giants.

We have obviously disproved that, but Im not sure they fully believe us yet. Some people have said the bodies we have discovered are the children of giants!

The dig also revealed the ruins of a 12th-century mosque, evidence of Islamic burials and headstones as well as glass vessel fragments, rock crystal, carnelian, and glass beads, imported cowry shells, and pottery from Madagascar, the Maldives, Yemen and China, bronze and silver coins from 13th-century Egypt.

The architecture of the mosque is similar to those found in Southern Tanzania and Somaliland, showing connections between different Islamic communities in Africa.

Remains found in the dig suggest jewelers were making high-quality, delicate pieces in silver, bronze and semi-precious stones and glass beads.

They used some technology usually associated in that period with jewelers in India, suggesting trade or immigration from that country to Harlaa.

We know jewelry was being made here for trading into the African interior, and materials to do this came in from the Red Sea, East African Coast and possibly India, but we dont know what was given in exchange for that jewelry, Prof. Insoll said.

During the next stage of our archaeological research in this era we hope to examine this by working on other sites up to 60 miles (100 km) away.
[NAIROBI] The digital divide the gulf between those who have ready access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as computers and the internet and those who do not  does exist in Kenya and many parts of Africa.



I got this key message during a media day in Kenya last week (16 June) organised by Huawei Technologies, a technology solutions provider.



Despite rapid growth in ICT, the digital divide is common in Sub-Saharan Africa. Some of the key reasons for this are accessibility and affordability.

One of the ways of achieving this has been to produce cheap smartphones for people with low socioeconomic status. Stephanie Achieng

But the digital divide also provides opportunities for technological providers to move in and narrow the gap if not to eliminate it to spur socioeconomic development in Africa and other parts of the developing world.



And Huawei, I gathered from presentations, has a major aim to build a better connected Kenya and other parts of Africa to bridge the digital barrier.



One of the ways of achieving this has been to produce cheap smartphones for people with low socioeconomic status as well as the high-end brands for the sophisticated and erudite consumers.



The company appears committed to seeing the growth of ICT in Africa. In Kenya, for instance, the company has been sponsoring 10 students from the universities since 2013 for a two-week internship in China.



The programme known as the Seed of Future provides an opportunity for these students to study and gain work experience as well as exposure to Chinese culture and cross-cultural work experience on ICT in a globalised business environment.



Other focus areas include building basic ICT skills for ensuring that people, including the vulnerable and the elderly are able to acquire skills in how to use ICT to get jobs, services and other benefits.

Equally important is enhancing use of ICT for education to improve the quality and accessibility of educational resources for the formal and informal educational sectors.Among the drivers of elimination of the digital divide include use of ICT for local research and development Dean Yu, chief executive officer of Huawei Kenya, says the company has contributed more than US$1 million to various projects in Kenya. It has also collaborated with Safaricom, a mobile telephone service provider, to launch 4G and it is looking forward to launching 4.5G.Striving to have products of different prices that favour different consumers in the market, especially for the low-income individuals to enhance accessibility and affordability will be a major score in trying to narrow the gap.I believe that such a goal could help close the digital divide in Kenya and boost socioeconomic development.

This piece was produced by SciDev.Nets Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.
The research team of the Canadian Arctic expedition vessel, CCGS Amundsen, canceled the planned voyage and postponed the Arctic climate change study. Arctic sea ice's unexpected motion prevented the trip.

The aim of the Arctic climate change study was to monitor the impacts of the climate change on the coastal ecosystem and the Arctic marine. The motion of the sea ice in the Arctic area can make the voyage very dangerous for both the expedition vessel and its scientists. The name of this project is BaySys or the Hudson Bay System Study.

This Arctic climate change project includes 40 scientists from the five universities of Canada, Newsweek reported. It was a four-year project that was supported by $17 million. The Canadian Coast Guard and the famous University of Manitoba have been making the Arctic climate change study easier for the last 15 years.

The Canadian Research Icebreaker, CCGS Amundsen, contains 22 portable laboratories, a good number of instruments, and sixty-five scientific systems. All these facilities together help the researchers to explore the ocean ecosystems, the key part of the Arctic climate change study. The study of this ecosystem includes the atmosphere, the ice, and snow above the Arctic seafloor, and also the condition below the ice.

The preparation was to start the 2017 expedition six days before the scheduled date. But the chief scientist of the expedition, David Barber, realized that it was impossible to carry on the trip. The scientist understood that due to the increasing temperature in the Arctic region a hazardous sea ice has an unexpected southward motion. It could create problems for the CCGS Amundsen to reach the required destination in time to perform the Arctic climate change study.

David Barber opined that the increasing trend of the temperatures decreases the thickness as well as the context of the sea ice. This condition ultimately enhanced the mobility of the ice that halted the Arctic climate change study. It is obvious that more variability of the ice conditions will be visible in future days. Barber revealed that they canceled the BaySys mission due to the present ice condition and the increasing demand for ice escort and the search-and-rescue operations.

The research team expects to restart the Arctic climate change study in 2018. The team gathered comprehensive dataset about the physics of the ocean, atmosphere, and ice, in the required area, Phys.org reported. This dataset will help Canada to learn the said ice conditions and to prepare for the climate change.

The research study of the team has pointed out that climate change already exists, and it is not that it will happen in future. Now one important thing is though, the team canceled the Arctic climate change study, but the important oceanographic studies will go on as planned. Climate change has not only affected the Arctic Ocean but also, the people residing in the south part of Canada.
People in the fast-growing marijuana industry are trying to reduce their environmental footprint. Whether it is from saving energy and water to lessening the use of pesticides, cannabis farmers are ready to save some of the energy for the greater good of the planet.

According to National Geographic, while marijuana farming does not seem like such a big industry, 1 square foot of indoor marijuana cultivation actually uses four times the energy than that of the same space in a hospital, and around eight times more than that of a commercial building. With the growing number of states that legalize marijuana for medicinal and recreational uses, this became a more important issue.

The lack of cannabis testing also contributes to the problem of quality control. However, some professional growers are already doing what they can to change this landscape. Amy Andrle, a founding member of the Organic Cannabis Association, said that the dispensary she runs with her husband, L'Eagle Services, offers "100% clean cannabis."

Unfortunately, because the crop is not legal in a federal level, they, as well as many other growers, cannot use the official organic certification from the United States Department of Agriculture. This makes it harder for them to make an organic distinction for their customers, a feat that the Organic Cannabis Association is trying to develop.

So far, Herb managed to make a list of of eco-friendly cannabis growers who are aiming to cultivate and sell organic weed. Greenly, for instance, is a company that is said to employ as much green practice as it can. The company is said to be aiming to minimize pollution while delivering the highest quality medical marijuana for patients in Los Angeles.

East Coast CBDs, LLC from Maine offers rare cannabis strains that are customized to the needs of patients. They also provide their local harvests with certified lab test results of products that they sell. These tests verify that they sell pesticide, fungus, mildew, mold and contaminant-free medical marijuana.
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The body of a crew member who fell into the River Trent has finally been found - six months after he went missing.

An inquest has now opened into the death of father-of-two Vicente Delgado, 35, who went missing after he fell off a vessel in the River Trent at Gunness Wharf on December 3.

Police conducted a number of searches at the time, including a large search and rescue operation involving police, coastguard rescue teams and a helicopter at the time, but they could not locate Mr Delgado.

In a desperate attempt for information, a relative of Mr Delgado travelled hundreds of miles from Belgium to Scunthorpe at the time to speak to officers at the town's station.

Viviane Monteiro Do Rosario, whose niece, Ronice Fernandes, is Mr Delgado's partner and the mother of his two children, travelled with a friend from Belgium to Scunthorpe via Eurotunnel.

She travelled to Gunness Wharf where Mr Delgado fell and dropped flowers in the water as a mark of respect.

His brother Ramiro has now told the Scunthorpe Telegraph that Mr Delgado's body has been found.

Coroner's officer Janet Newell said an inquest opened on Friday (June 16) and has been adjourned until July 19.

The cause of death has not been ascertained, she said.

Mr Delgado was originally from Cape Verde in West Africa.
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You may have noticed if you have been out in Scunthorpe today that an inflatable venue has been set up.

The venue has appeared in Church Square and currently has a fence surrounding it.

The appearance of the inflatable venue comes as the North Lincolnshire Powerhouse Festival kicks off tomorrow (June 20).

From 9.30am, the festival will celebrate the best in local dance, art and music.

Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for Community Wellbeing, said: Sinfonia Viva have handed their venue over to us for their second day in North Lincolnshire and we have packed so many exciting activities in weve overflowed into Church Square."

He said: We want to use this opportunity to showcase all North Lincolnshire has to offer and really celebrate our area as a centre for music, culture and the arts."

During the day the venue will be used for music workshops with local schools and then, in the evening, it will come alive for the Powerhouse Showcase.

The inflatable venue comes as part of professional orchestra, Sinfonia Viva.

The incredible venue has been brought to Scunthorpe as part of Vivas Cabinet of Curiosity tour.

The North Lincolnshire Powerhouse Festival has been made possible thanks to the support of the North Lincolnshire Music Hub and Sinfonia Viva, as well as funding from SSE and Arts Council England.

You can find out more about the Music Hub by visiting their website, www.musichubnorthlincs.gov.uk or by finding them on Facebook and Twitter.
From January to May 2017, Chinese shipbuilders landed 9.86m dwt in newbuilding tonnage, representing a 31.5% decline compared to the previous corresponding period, Cansi data showed.

The orderbook backlog at Chinese yards up until 31 May 2017 stood at 85.15m dwt, down 30.7% year-on-year and down 14.5% compared to end-2016.

In completed newbuild tonnage, the shipyards built a total of 22.93m dwt in tonnage capacity over the first five months, a spike of 78.8% year-on-year.

Chinas 53 leading shipbuilders took the lions share of the shipbuilding market with new orders recorded at 8.74m dwt in the first five months, a decrease of 37% compared to the same period of 2016, according to Cansi.

The 53 leading yards monitored by Cansi completed newbuild tonnage of 19.57m dwt, up 63.5%, and sat on an order backlog of 80.61m dwt, down 31.6%.

Cansi further monitors 80 main shipyards showing that their combined completed newbuildings to be valued at RMB149bn ($22.26bn), a drop of 7.7% year-on-year. Among the total value, shipbuilding accounted for RMB67bn, equipment amounted to RMB9bn and ship repairs took up RMB4.2bn.

The 80 main shipyards generated a total revenue of RMB109.6bn from January to May this year, a fall of 7.2% while total profit also slipped by 6.3% to RMB1.5bn.
Press Release

June 19, 2017 Elderly groups back Sen. Bam's bill creating commission for senior citizens Different senior citizens organizations have expressed support for the passage of Sen. Bam Aquino's measure seeking to create a National Commission for Senior Citizens (NCSC) to ensure that rights and privileges they are entitled to are properly given to them. Officials and members of the different organizations met with Sen. Bam at the Senate Monday and aired their full support for the enactment of Senate Bill No. 674 into law. The groups include the NAPC Senior Citizens Sectoral Council, Federation of Senior Citizens of the Philippines (FSCAP), Confederation of Older Persons Association of the Philippines (COPAP), Coalition of Services of the Elderly, Inc. (COSE), and Pederasyon ng Maralitang Nakakatanda (PAMANA) with DSWD, NCDA, CWC, and House Committees on Government Reorganization and on Population and Family Relations. As former chairman of the National Youth Commission, Sen. Bam underscored the importance of having such a commission for a specific sector of society. "If we have one for the youth, we should definitely have one for senior citizens as acknowledgement of their contribution to the growth and progress of the country," said Sen. Bam. "As they reach the twilight of their lives, it is our responsibility to take care of our seniors, and uphold their rights and privileges," said Sen. Bam. According to the senator, the commission will ensure the proper implementation of Republic Act 7432 or the Senior Citizens Act of 2015, with the best interests of our country's seniors at heart. "As a national agency, the NCSC will formulate and implement policies, plans, and programs that promote senior rights and privileges or address issues plaguing the sector," Sen. Bam stressed. The bill seeks to amend Section 11 of Republic Act 7432 or the Expanded Senior Citizen Act of 2010, abolishing the National Coordinating and Monitoring Board and replacing it with NCSC. The council will be spearheaded by a chairperson and commissioners from a list submitted by senior citizens organizations and associations. "Regional commissions for senior citizens will also be established in different local government units to effectively address the needs of the elderly in the provinces," said Sen. Bam.
Several days after Mike Lefiti was gunned down in a UPS distribution center, those who lived on his delivery route are still coming to terms with the fact that the UPS delivery man  their UPS delivery man  is no longer around.

On Sunday, Diamond Heights resident Neha Sampat invited people to the sprawling memorial made for Lefiti outside a Safeway where he always parked his truck to record a few words about the man they lost in Wednesdays shooting. Sampat plans to give a video of the event to Lefitis family to show them how the residents on his route lost much more than their UPS delivery man.
When Julie Panebianco began scouting for preschools in San Francisco three years ago, the choices were tantalizing: Mandarin immersion programs. Big outdoor play areas. Organic snacks. Montessori or Waldorf philosophies.

But all of them were far too expensive for Panebianco, a high school teacher and mother of two whose husband designs characters for video games. She counted herself lucky to find a school in the Sunset that charged less than $1,300 a month  below average for the city  because it had just opened for business.

Now that school has a huge waiting list, and the price went up significantly, said Panebianco, who lives in the Upper Haight.

Shes among the many parents confronting a scarcity of affordable child care in San Francisco, where centers charge up to $2,605 a month for an infant, according to a 2016 report by the city controller, and home-based day cares charge up to $1,850.

Some parents say theyve had to make tough sacrifices, bringing their babies to work, racking up credit card debt, sending kids to live with distant relatives or leaving the workforce altogether. And some say that it doesnt matter whether they can pay for day care or not, because most places are booked.

Now pressure is building on the citys government to help.

On Monday, the Board of Supervisors Land Use and Transportation Committee will vote on legislation by Supervisors Norman Yee and Katy Tang to ease the permitting process for day care and preschool facilities. These schools and centers now have to obtain conditional use permits to open in many neighborhoods, which Yee says is expensive and time-consuming, and limits the citys supply of an essential service.

Separately, child care advocates are pushing the city to set aside $10 million in its next budget to fund education programs for young children.

Yet such measures are small and incremental for an industry thats being hit on all sides. Many day care centers are getting squeezed by high rents, which force some to shut down and others to raise fees. At the same time, the child care labor force is shrinking: A recent survey by the citys Child Care Planning and Advisory Council showed that more than a third of centers cant enroll to their full capacity because they dont have enough teachers  the jobs pay too little to justify getting the credentials or cover the cost of living in San Francisco.

Right now, early childhood (care) is paid for by teachers having really low wages, or parents fees going up, said Sara Hicks-Kilday, director of the San Francisco Child Care Providers Association.

Salaries for preschool teachers with masters degrees go as low as $23,000 a year, which is nowhere near the minimum survival wage in San Francisco, said Gretchen Ames, Bay Area regional coordinator for the California Child Care Resource & Referral Network  a nonprofit working to boost the states supply of affordable child care.

Nicole Boliaux/The Chronicle

Ames said the low wages are causing San Francisco to hemorrhage child care workers, and putting severe strains on the ones who stay. Some drive in from as far away as Vallejo, she said. Others cannot afford to put their own children in child care. Still others juggle multiple jobs.

Im constantly looking at ways to balance all these needs in the early childhood field, said Yee, who successfully sponsored a law last year imposing new developer impact fees to fund child care facilities.

You have children who need high-quality care, but their families cant afford it, Yee said. You have the professionals who provide this stuff, but theyre the lowest-paid educators. And then, even when we get some funding to increase services, we run into the problem of where to put them.

Although San Francisco has long been the butt of jokes for having more dogs than children, the city has actually done more than many of its neighbors to help needy families. In the 1990s San Francisco became the first city in the country to invest local dollars in child care subsidies, combining city funds with federal and state money. Those subsidies are based on a familys gross income: A single parent earning up to $3,800 a month can get the city to pick up most of the tab.

But there is plenty of competition. In March, the wait list had 2,630 infants and toddlers.

Parents who dont get help are left making painful decisions. Some in the citys immigrant communities wind up sending their kids overseas to live with grandparents, said Maria Luz Torre, an organizer for the grassroots group Parent Voices. Decades ago, Torre sent her children back to the Philippines while trying to set up her life in San Francisco.

Other parents reluctantly leave the workforce to stay home with their kids.

I loved my job, I loved my bosses, I loved my co-workers, said Mari Villaluna, a single mother and disabled Army veteran who worked as a counselor for high school students with disabilities. Villaluna applied for a child care subsidy months before her baby was born. By the time her maternity leave ended in September, the subsidy still hadnt come through.

So I showed up to work with my baby, she said. And they decided that for liability reasons, I couldnt do that.

She lost her job in December. When the subsidy finally came in March, she was unable to use it because she was unemployed.

Some parents, such as Willow Lancaster, a mother of three who lives in Bernal Heights, get by on credit card debt. Lancaster has a city voucher that pays all but $500 a month for her 9-year-old daughters summer programs. She takes home $3,000 a month as a public health employee and pays $2,000 a month in rent  which leaves about $500 for everything else.

Then there are parents stuck in the middle strata: They dont qualify for financial aid, but they cant afford most day cares and preschools.

We are, I guess, in the middle class, but we dont make enough money to pay for these programs, said Christine Nevarez, a mother of three who runs an early childhood education program at San Francisco State University. Her two sons attend day care on the university campus, and her daughter goes to transitional kindergarten in the Mission District. Nevarezs husband is a police officer who often works double shifts to cover the cost of day care and the familys mortgage in Glen Park.

Panebianco and her husband, Jon Gregory, have survived by staggering their work schedules  he goes in late after dropping their children off in the Richmond and Sunset districts; she comes home early to pick them up. Theyve crammed the whole family into a rent-controlled, one-bedroom apartment on Clayton Street, converting the laundry room into a bedroom for 1-year-old Niko and putting 4-year-old Daisy in the nook that used to be Jons office.

Even so, theyve considered following the migratory path of many other families, out to the less-expensive East Bay.

We love it here, but we cant take vacations, and were staying in this tiny apartment, Panebianco said. And paying for child care on my salary, we just scrape by.

Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan
If there is an upside to Ubers months of upheaval, it may be in the lecture halls of business schools.

Uber was already a popular subject  highly familiar to students, with a rapid trajectory from scrappy startup disrupting the taxi industry to global transportation behemoth. Its latest challenges make the 8-year-old company even more enticing.

Its a fantastic case study, said Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, a management professor and senior associate dean for leadership studies at the Yale School of Management. Its too good to waste. Theyve had multiple crises with personal conduct issues at the top, regulatory and operational flaws, gender and value issues. Then there are the flashpoints of crisis management, all the executive departures and a powerful vacuum, possibly disharmony on the board.

Case studies, business schools favorite way of examining real-world dilemmas, present students with a specific business situation, ask them to identify and analyze a problem and suggest courses of action.

Its a textbook case, aid Ira Kalb, a marketing professor at the University of Southern California. I use Uber in assignments all the time for all the different issues that come up.

The worse things get, the more problems there are to explore, even while Ubers core business continues its astonishing growth. Sonnenfeld characterizes it as a company with a great technical model and a terrible management model, making it ripe for MBA students to suggest solutions.

Evan Rawley, a management professor at Columbia, has written a couple of Uber case studies over the years, focusing on the companys competitive advantages vis-a-vis taxis and using game theory to analyze the Uber-versus-Lyft rivalry.

Its always a real highlight of the year; there are many, many issues one can talk about, he said. Now I will add culture change to the list: the difficulties an organization has in changing culture and how that can happen with different incentives, oversight mechanisms, policies, bureaucratizing the organization.

At USC, students like talking about companies theyre familiar with such as Uber and Snap, said Kalb, the marketing professor. But then I point out that Uber and Snap have not made any profits, which triggers discussions of what does success mean? They think of it as making lots of money. Uber lost $2.8 billion on $6.5 billion in revenue last year.

In the classroom of New York University business professor Arun Sundararajan, Uber comes up in several contexts, including the future of mobility, increasing automation, labor and regulatory issues and how to scale.

My students are far more idealistic and pro-labor than I would have expected from a group of business students, said Sundararajan, who published a book called The Sharing Economy last year. They are very much on the drivers side in the Uber-versus-drivers conversation.

Theres one business professor who might be able to write the ultimate Uber case study.

Frances Frei this month left Harvard  the cradle of business case studies  to become Ubers senior vice president of leadership and strategy. She is arriving just as CEO and co-founder Travis Kalanick takes a leave of absence from the company, which is also adopting dozens of recommendations for change from a scathing report prepared by former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder.

As one of the worlds most respected authorities on organizational transformation  she is uniquely qualified for the role  and we know we all have a lot to learn from her, Uber wrote in a blog post.

So do future generations of MBA students, if and when she dishes on her tenure there.

Carolyn Said is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: csaid@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @csaid
A decades-long lawsuit to make Chevron Corp. pay for cleaning up oil-field pollution in Ecuador suffered another blow Monday when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal in the case, which has been closely watched worldwide.

The justices let stand a U.S. District Court ruling that a $19 billion judgment against Chevron in an Ecuadoran court in 2011 was the result of an elaborate fraud orchestrated by an American attorney, Steven Donziger.

Although Ecuadors highest court later cut that amount to $9.5 billion, Chevron vowed not to pay. Instead, the San Ramon company accused Donziger of bribing an Ecuadoran judge and ghost-writing the judgment.

The facts of the Ecuadoran judicial extortion scheme and the illegality of the plaintiffs lawyer misconduct have been finally and conclusively affirmed by the legal system of the United States, said R. Hewitt Pate, Chevrons general counsel, in an email. Todays decision is an important step toward bringing this illegal scheme to a final conclusion.

Related video: Story continues below

The Supreme Courts action appears to end one tumultuous chapter in the fight  but does not stop the fight itself.

Although further legal action in the United States now seems unlikely, Ecuadorans who want Chevron to fund cleanup efforts in a corner of the Amazon rain forest are also pursuing the oil company in Canada.

Chevrons opponents in the case on Monday accused the U.S. Supreme Court of acting like biased referees in a ballgame, allowing an American company off the hook for misdeeds aboard. They maintain that Chevron bribed a witness and forged evidence.

Ultimately, Chevron will be forced by other jurisdictions to pay every last dollar of the judgment imposed on it for (its) criminal behavior in Ecuador, read a statement Monday from the Amazon Defense Coalition, an organization that represents villagers and farmers living near Ecuadors oil fields.

We are disappointed but not surprised that U.S. courts once again have refused to deal with the pollution problem in Ecuador caused by a U.S. company, the organization said.

The lawsuits roots stretch back decades.

Texaco, which Chevron bought in 2001, drilled for oil in Ecuador from 1964 to 1992, working alongside state-owned Petroecuador. Chevron insists that Texaco fulfilled all of its cleanup obligations when it left the country. Any remaining pollution, according to Chevron, is Petroecuadors responsibility.

The lawsuit, based in the Ecuadoran town of Lago Agrio, became an international cause celebre and the subject of a 2009 documentary, Crude. But the film, which profiled Donziger and his legal team, became the key to Chevrons defense. One scene showed the team working with a court-appointed technical expert, Richard Cabrera, who was supposed to be neutral.

Chevron in 2011 sued Donziger in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, accusing him and his colleagues of running an extortion scheme. Chevrons lawyers even obtained Donzigers diary, filled with unflattering descriptions of Ecuadors judges and legal system.

In March 2014, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan sided with Chevron, saying Donziger and his colleagues had obtained the judgment against Chevron through fraud. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld his decision last year.

David R. Baker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dbaker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DavidBakerSF
Homes are getting smarter.

Appliances, lightbulbs, televisions, baby monitors and even the locks on the front door can be automated, Internet-enabled, connected.

Without even realizing, early adopters of what are known as Internet of Things devices may wind up with dozens of smart devices in their house, cybersecurity experts said. And that means smart homes arent just homes anymore  theyre networks.

A network is any number of devices that are hooked up to the same Internet connection and linked to each other for the purposes of sharing data and information.

This means a single computer, smartphone or central hub, like Amazons Echo or Apples HomePod, can control all the devices in one house. It also means that a hacker who gains entry into a home network can use that connection to manipulate more than just the refrigerator.

Preventing that  and more broadly securing at-home networks  has become the latest arms race in consumer security.

The problem? Many casual smart-device buyers may not know that even with their door locked and windows closed, cybercriminals can still find a way into their home.

Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg

Most consumers struggle to keep up with keeping their systems patched on their computer and their smartphone  devices that literally remind them to update their system, said Tony Sager, the senior vice president at Center for Internet Security. Now youre talking about who knows how many more things that people are going to struggle to keep track of, and the second you bring it home, its talking to your home network.

A smart homes residents may not even be the primary target. Hacked smart-home devices, like thermostats, security cameras or appliances, could be used to generate bogus traffic designed to overwhelm computer servers in what is known as a botnet attack. One of the biggest attacks of this sort struck last year, and all but shut down some of the most popular websites in the world.

Besides the inconvenience of not being able to use Twitter or shop on Amazon, and the discomfiting idea that you may have been unwittingly complicit in devastating cyberattacks, the only direct impact these digital home invasions have on device owners is slowed-down Internet speeds.

But as the popularity of smart devices increases, experts said, so too does the likelihood of a network-wide attack. And the worst- case scenario is the stuff of sci-fi nightmares:

Imagine being locked out of your home, or trapped inside, because a cybercriminal gained control over the locks on your doors. Imagine the thermostat being hijacked to make your home sweltering or freezing cold. Imagine hackers using the smart TV in your bedroom as a recording device or holding all the food in your refrigerator hostage while youre on vacation  threatening to let it spoil until you pay what theyre asking. Now imagine all of that happening all at once.

If cybercriminals can figure out a way to make money by holding homes hostage, experts said, these types of standoffs may begin soon. One technique is called ransomware, in which a cybercriminal demands payment to unlock a computer or smartphone or return files they have encrypted.

The more that connected devices interact with the physical world, the more that ransomwares success will hinge on controlling access instead of controlling data, said Tim Erlin, vice president of product management and strategy at security firm Tripwire. As we move to more ... embedded devices, the consumer has less control. Unless the industry facilitates security features, it will become harder and harder for consumers to protect themselves from cyberattack.

Nearly 8.4 billion Internet-enabled devices will be connected worldwide by the end of 2017, according to estimates by research firm Gartner. Of those, 5.2 billion will be in peoples homes.

By 2020, Gartner estimates, the number of Internet of Things devices in use will fall just short of 1.5 trillion.

I think its inevitable, said Ed Skoudis, an instructor with SANS Institute, a cybersecurity training company, of the wave of smart devices. I think its the future. I think its here to stay.

Several security firms are already selling or plan to release devices that monitor the home as a network and allow people to keep track of devices and see when, or if, they become compromised.

Theres the Bitdefender Box and F-Secure Sense box, which act as smart routers, screening traffic and devices coming into and out of your network; the oddly shaped Norton Core, which also provides data encryption and manages software updates; and most recently, Bullguards pebble-like network defense system, Dojo.

Dojo, released late last month, plugs directly into a Wi-Fi router and acts as a firewall between your home and any external threats.

A smartphone app communicates security updates and threat levels  green is good, orange means there was a problem that Dojo automatically fixed and red means further action is needed.

If a threat is detected, the system can quarantine the device in question and, theoretically, isolate the malicious software and prevent it from leaking into and infecting other devices on the network.

Most (devices) dont have any indicator that something is wrong, because its just a thermostat or a baby monitor or a TV; its just a machine with no interface, so you may not be getting notifications of slow browsing, said Yossi Atias, Bullguards general manager for Internet of Things security. If those devices got hacked, you would never know. Its still working, you may not notice anything different. Thats the challenge.

Atias said he came up with the idea when his teenage daughter came home from school after a cybersecurity presentation and put a Band-Aid over the camera on her laptop.

She told him she had learned the only way to make sure no one is watching through her computers camera was to cover it up.

It just hit me, you know, were not going to go around and put Band-Aids on every device in our home, and with most of them, it wouldnt help anyway, Atias said. Thats when I realized your home is not just a collection of a stand-alone devices. Its a network. And all of the cybersecurity risks that come with that suddenly apply to your home.

Atias said he has more than two dozen connected devices in his home. He has seen houses where that number rises to nearly 200.

Ransomware attacks have struck hotels, businesses and public utilities by capitalizing on weak network security. Once one computer is infected with malicious software known as malware, hackers can break into other devices on the network.

Malware can be planted by hackers who break into devices with easy-to-guess or hardwired passwords that never get changed, or when people click on a link from an unknown source.

Devices like Dojo are meant to act as an early warning and firewall, though they cannot prevent users from making risky decisions that imperil their data and the security of their devices, experts said.

On Friday, KQED, the San Francisco public broadcaster, saw its live radio stream go down and warned employees not to access their email or computers as it investigated what it called suspicious activity. Several employees told The Chronicle that KQED was the victim of a ransomware attack.

And last month, a ransomware attack infected tens of thousands of computers in nearly 100 countries by exploiting machines with outdated software that hadnt been properly updated or patched. The malware, known as WannaCry, hit hospitals the hardest.

Also this year, cybercriminals hacked into the computer system of a hotel in the Austrian Alps that controlled the electronic key system. Guests, who had paid nearly $300 per night, were locked out of their rooms. The reservations system went down.

The hackers demanded $1,600 to return the hotels system to normal  a ransom the hotel paid. But in the end, it opted for a more permanent fix: It installed no-tech manual door locks and swapped out key cards for actual keys.

My best advice is dont be an early adopter of these (Internet of Things) devices, Sager said. And if you are, be sure to be aware and take steps to secure your network as best you can. Otherwise, keep your manual locks and your dumb refrigerator and let the market figure out whats going on.

Marissa Lang is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mlang@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Marissa_Jae
While AJ Lee is only 19 years old, shes been the new face of bluegrass for more than a decade. Through her work as a solo artist and featured vocalist with the Tuttles, a family band featuring three siblings who like Lee have been nurtured since early childhood by the Northern California Bluegrass Society, the Tracy-raised multi-instrumentalist has earned a national following with her gorgeous voice and winsome stage presence.

Now Lee and the new bluegrass generation are taking the music places its never gone before. On Sunday, June 25, she and three longtime friends will make history by serenading the San Francisco Pride Parade audience from a float sponsored by the California Bluegrass Association, the first time such an organization has participated in a gay pride event.

When she heard that the association was going to have a Pride float, I was shocked, says Lee, a straight ally of the LGBTQ community. I didnt expect that to happen. My friends Helen Foley and Dana Frankel, on bass and fiddle, respectively, asked if I would sing and play with them. Im sort of a freelancer, showing up and singing a few tunes.

Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle

With its rural roots deep in Appalachia, bluegrass is often associated with conservative values, but a progressive thread runs through the music, from union songs and Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard touring in support of the 1960s civil rights movement through Berkeley bluegrass musician Laurie Lewis. Still, the associations decision to participate in Pride proved to be controversial.

Several longtime members ended up leaving the nonprofit organization, saying they wanted to keep music and politics separate, but we had so many more people join, says Frankel, 17, who also performs with Foley and their bluegrass quintet Pacific Drive at the Back Room in Berkeley on July 13. I was president of the LGBT and minority rights club in my high school, and I was so thrilled to hear this is happening.

While Lee, Frankel and friends embody the next wave of bluegrass, theyre experiencing some creative growing pains. When Frankel starts UC Santa Cruz in the fall, shes looking forward to mixing it up with a wide variety of musicians. And Lee, now living in Santa Cruz and contemplating a move to Nashville, just released a six-song EP produced by Berkeleys Jon Abrams, covering a disparate program of songs, including Gillian Welchs Look at Miss Ohio, Merle Haggards California Cotton Fields and Doris Troys 1963 R&B hit Just One Look.

She sees her expanding repertoire as a natural evolution. While wary of alienating fans who have followed her since she was a tyke, shes putting my antennae everywhere, Lee says. A lot of people want me to continue doing covers of older California bluegrass songs, but Im kind of in a transitional phase. My housemates and I listen to a lot of old blues. Weve been getting into Brandi Carlile, John Prine and Jake Bugg, Johnny Cash, Snarky Puppy and lots of Ray Charles.

Lee never fit central castings profile for a bluegrass prodigy. Her father fled Burma in the early 1970s when the government fomented pogroms against ethnic Chinese communities. Her parents met in San Jose, and by the age of 7 she was turning heads at Bluegrass Association events and festivals. Between 2010 and 2017, the Northern California Bluegrass Society named her female vocalist of the year seven times.

But as she prepares to leave her teenage years behind her, Lee is experimenting with songwriting more, trying to figure out what Im strongest in, finding myself in what I enjoy, she says. People are very interested in youth, young players who can pick really fast. Its easy to get attention when youre 5 singing about walking your dog. As an older woman, I have to dig a little deeper and try to figure out what works for me and the listener.

Andrew Gilbert is a Bay Area freelance writer.

San Francisco LGBT Pride Parade: 10:30 a.m. Sunday, June 25. The parade begins at Market and Beale streets and ends at Market and Eighth streets. www.sfpride.org

To see AJ Lee perform Bob Dylans Tomorrow is a Long Time: https://youtu.be/b_JczS9xZ7k
WASHINGTON  Marking her 30th anniversary in Congress, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi sees a peculiar alignment of history and politics taking shape. In the 2006 midterm election, that alignment made the San Francisco Democrat speaker of the House. In the 2010 midterms, it toppled her into the minority.

These forces are again aligning  one party in control of Washington, led by a president with sagging popularity, in this case one with record unpopularity, facing FBI and multiple other investigations and an inability to enact the legislation he promised despite this partys control of the House and Senate.

History is on our side, Pelosi told The Chronicle last week in an interview in her offices just outside the House chamber.

More than investigations or even impeachment, winning back control of the House in the 2018 midterms would disrupt the governing capacity of the Trump White House, just as the GOP takeover of the House in 2010 crippled President Barack Obamas presidency and Democratic victories in 2006 paralyzed the remainder of President George W. Bushs second term.

Democrats need a net gain of 24 seats next year to retake the House, and typically, when the presidents approval rating is below 50 percent, the average seat gain for opposing party is 36 seats, said Emory University political scientist Alan Abramowitz.

Trumps popularity is a shade lower than Bushs in the 2006 midterms, during the depths of the Iraq War. And it is substantially lower than Obamas in the 2010 midterms. Both Bush and Obama were below 50 percent approval at the time, but Trumps current 38 percent is a record low for a president just six months into his term.

Yet some analysts say a split between mainstream Democrats and the partys Bernie Sanders liberal wing could undermine the advantage, just as it worked against the party in the general election in November when Hillary Clinton failed to arouse the passions of Sanders supporters.

It reminds me of a Greek tragedy, said San Jose State University political scientist Larry Gerston. In the first page you hear all about the stuff thats going to happen. You read the whole book believing it cant possibly happen. And in the last page, it happens. Thats what the Democrats are going through right now. One would think that they learned something from the last election, but in fact the chasm has only widened.

Pelosi brushed the notion aside.

Thats an interesting conversation, she said. But the great abyss, the chasm that exists between Donald Trump and any Democrat is so vast. He happens to be one of the great unifiers and one of the great organizers for the Democrats.

With Obama out of office, Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York are now the partys leaders. Pelosi said she welcomes the re-energized left and sees it as a source of strength.

Look, I was a party chair, in California, before entering Congress in 1987, she said. I was one of the big complainers. When youre an activist, youre never satisfied. By your nature, you are dissatisfied, relentless and persistent. And you hope to move the debate to where you are.

But once in office, she said, you have to make some choices that may not satisfy the partys more liberal wing.

Gerston said the risk is that some in the Sanders wing do not want to come into the party as much as they want to remake the party. They may succeed in doing that, but they will lose several elections along the way first.

Trumps presidency has sobered people, Pelosi said. Ive never seen such a reaction to an election all the years Ive been involved, she said. People just see the urgency, they want to take responsibility.

People who have never helped the House  were not the glamour, were not the White House, were not the Senate  now are coming to us and saying, you have to win. We will help.

Still, the fights in the party are real, and many hunger for a fresh message. Freshman Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Fremont, has been among the most vocal about it, advocating for what he calls an aspirational populism to attract working-class people in both parties.

Khanna is pushing Medicare-for-all single-payer health care, apprenticeship programs, wider access to college and a $1 trillion tax credit that he says would basically be a raise for working families of 20 percent.

Pelosi agreed that Democrats need a stronger message, and blamed Obama for not making the case for what Democrats had already done to help working families.

We walk the walk, all we did is fight the fight here, she said. But we didnt talk the talk, so people didnt really know in part because Obama never talked about them. Never talked about the Affordable Care Act. Now he does. But not then.

She said the new agenda for the 2018 campaign will emerge from a member consensus. Has to spring from them, she said. Its not, I put this down on a piece of paper and give it to them.

Abramowitz called Democratic divisions greatly overblown.

Democrats have yet to win any of the special election contests to fill seats vacated by members now serving in Trumps cabinet, but a big test will come Tuesday in Atlanta, where Democrat John Ossoff and Republican Karen Handel are facing off for a seat vacated by Republican Tom Price, now Trumps Health and Human Services secretary.

Polls are tight. Ossoff is running as a centrist, yet it doesnt seem to be hurting him with the Democratic base here, Abramowitz said.

Hes raised millions of dollars from Democrats all over the country, small contributions, which tells me that there is no lack of enthusiasm, he said.

Pelosi has figured prominently in the race. Repeating their 2010 strategy, Republicans are tying Ossoff to her in an effort to block him from getting the 10 to 15 percent of the Republican vote he will need to win, Abramowitz said.

Republicans are showing pictures of San Francisco and supposed voters in San Francisco who look like hippies, he said, talking about how they love Ossoff.

Pelosi said the ads show Republicans dont have any ideas.

But she sees Trump as working to the Democrats advantage in 2018, dismissing his lure to GOP voters, calling him grossly overestimated.

Leadership requires discipline, vision, purpose and knowledge, she said.

Why does he want to be president? she asked. You have to ... know what youre talking about, what the challenges are and where to get the knowledge and know what you dont know  so that people will respect your judgment  instead of tweeting in the middle of the night on the john or wherever he is.

What Trump does well, she said, is connect, because hes a fear monger.

Fear, it connects with some people, which is unfortunate, she said. All we want to do is talk about what are their legislative proposals, this is what it means, and make the contrast.

Carolyn Lochhead is The San Francisco Chronicles Washington correspondent. Email: clochhead@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @carolynlochhead
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Mark Peterson had to go.

He was Contra Costa Countys district attorney  until Wednesday. Thats the day the state attorney generals office charged him with 13 felonies connected to his admitted use of his campaign fund as if it were a personal bank account.

You could see that Peterson didnt want to give up his $250,000-a-year post. Sure, he had tainted the office, and trust in his decision-making had eroded. But he wanted to run for re-election.

Yet, 13 felonies lights one heckuva fire on the behind.

So on Wednesday, Peterson cut a sweet plea deal with state prosecutors and resigned.

In exchange for his resignation and his no-contest plea to one count of perjury for making false statements on state campaign disclosure forms, state prosecutors dropped the other 12 charges.

Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge Theresa Canepa found Peterson guilty of the single felony and ordered him to perform 250 hours of community service and serve three years of probation.

Yup, thats it.

Id like to meet the person who believes Peterson got the same treatment as the most vulnerable of Contra Costa Countys citizens, the people he swore to serve.

Petersons the guy who decided not to file charges against active police officers in the sex-exploitation scandal that rocked the Oakland police force and pelted officers across the Bay Area, including in Contra Costa County.

In 2014, Peterson refused to prosecute a Richmond police officer for the killing of Richard Pedie Perez III, who was intoxicated and unarmed when he was shot three times.

Peterson, who was first elected district attorney in 2010 and won re-election unopposed four years later, should have known siphoning campaign funds for personal use was against the law.

It was revealed in December that Peterson made approximately 600 expenditures from the political account for his personal use. An investigation by the state Fair Political Practices Commission found Peterson dipped into his campaign funds between 2011 and 2015.

He dined out, went to the movies and went on shopping sprees. He paid phone bills, booked hotel rooms and hit ATM machines. Peterson also transferred money from the political account to his personal bank account.

After Peterson was notified that his political account would be audited by state tax investigators, he must have realized that his hand had been caught in the cookie jar and that there was no way to hide the melted chocolate on his fingers. Because he divulged his indiscretion to the Fair Political Practices Commission, repaid his campaign and paid a $45,000 fine.

Peterson was elected to uphold the law, but he abused his authority. And until last week, he ignored growing shouts for his resignation.

In May, a Contra Costa grand jury concluded that Peterson should be removed from office, alleging willful misconduct in his handling of campaign funds.

Back in January, I was in Martinez for a chilly, early morning protest that was ostensibly about Contra Costa County Sheriff David Livingstons jail contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. But the dozens of protestors also marched around the block to the district attorneys office, shouting Mark Peterson must go and D.A. resign now.

Peterson had to go.

It really was a good opportunity to point out, as we did that day, the criminal activity of the district attorney and how, as the community, we do not accept it, said Ali Saidi of the Contra Costa County Public Defenders Association, one of the leaders of the late-January protest. And we expect our elected officials, particularly our district attorney, to not be a crook.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Otis R. Taylor Jr. appears Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Email: otaylor@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @otisrtaylorjr
In contrast to the health care horror show unfolding in Washington, California can establish real health care security for our families, neighbors and communities with the Healthy California Act, SB562.

SB562 would guarantee coverage for every Californian. It would end the nightmare for those who pay premiums for insurance they cant use because of the huge deductibles.

It would end restrictive insurance networks that limit access to specialists, or slam patients with unexpected medical bills from a doctors group even when going to an approved network provider.

SB562 is the only way to achieve real patient choice. One medical card, good at any hospital, doctors office, lab or clinic.

Insurance companies are working feverishly to deceive the public about SB562 with claims such as this proposal will suddenly cost taxpayers $400 billion. But most of that is what is already spent on health care in California, an amount engorged by profiteering, inflated charges, mountains of billing paperwork, excessive executive pay packages, and other waste.

Heres what the opponents of SB562 have hidden: A study from the University of Massachusetts-Amhersts Political Economy Research Institute that illustrates how nearly every California household and business would actually spend less on health care costs than they do now.

Companies that now provide health benefits for employees will spend less, in large part because they will no longer have to subsidize the $26.7 billion in profits that California insurers made in the past six years.

Under the studys financing proposal, a modest 2.3 percent gross receipts tax for SB562 that exempts the first $2 million in revenue would slash what businesses with fewer than 10 employees pay now for health benefits by 22 percent. Large companies with up to 500 workers would spend 6 percent less on health care.

A 2.3 percent sales tax that exempts spending on housing, utilities, groceries and multiple personal savings would cut what most families now spend on health care as a share of their income by up to 9 percent  effectively a 9 percent raise.

In exchange, we could provide coverage for 2.7 million Californians still uninsured and eliminate the ever-rising costs of premiums, deductibles and other health charges for 12 million people who now pay premiums but face financial distress or bankruptcy if they go to the doctor or endanger their health by not getting the care they need  even if insured.

How do those charges affect real Californians? Meet Sharon, an insured North Bay resident with a pre-existing condition who recently told us that my deductible was supposed to be $5,000, but after expensive surgery I had to pay more than $7,000 out of pocket because only certain expenses apply to the deductible in spite of the fact I paid more than $6,000 in premiums through the year.

Enough of this nickel-and-diming me and my family so we can worry about whether we can keep our insurance each month or pay for enough groceries. Give us single-payer health care for all, regardless of income, she wrote.

Californians face a moral choice. To be a caring society, as envisioned by Martin Luther King Jr., a beloved community in which health care is genuinely a human right, guaranteed for all, we must pass SB562.

RoseAnn DeMoro is executive director of the California Nurses Association and National Nurses United, lead sponsor of SB562.
Former Rep. Ellen Tauscher of Pleasanton is easing back into California politics as one of the founders of a new super PAC aimed at flipping seven GOP congressional seats into the Democratic column next year.

Working with Berkeley political consultant Katie Merrill, Tauscher has launched Fight Back California, which plans to spend as much as $10 million between now and next June doing spadework in those targeted districts.

Its the early start that makes this new effort so different, Tauscher said, especially since it wont be linked to any particular Democratic candidate.

You have to start working before the (candidate) filing deadline, which isnt until March, Tauscher said. You have to be in those districts early, talking about local people, local politics and local issues.

The plan is also going to need some local money. While the new PAC already has collected a six-figure contribution from an undisclosed donor to get the effort rolling, Tauscher and Merrill are looking to snag some of the Democratic money that typically flows out of California to campaigns in other states.

We have to keep some of that money here, Tauscher said. Theres a sense that all of our (political) business is taken care of in California, and we have to tell people thats not really true.

The stakes are high for Democrats. Those seven Republican districts, split among the Central Valley, suburban Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Diego County, represent nearly a third of the 24 seats the party needs to take back the House from the GOP.

Tauscher knows what its like to challenge a GOP incumbent. In 1996, the former investment banker took on Republican Bill Baker and eked out a narrow 4,000-vote victory. She held the seat until 2009, when she resigned after being appointed to a top State Department post by President Barack Obama.

That California experience is invaluable, said Merrill, who ran Tauschers winning campaign and later worked in her Washington office.

Typically, you dont have a candidate until after the June primary, and then the national groups come out to work in the last five weeks of the campaign, she said. We need to get out there early and soften the ground for whoever the candidates will be.

Within the next four to six weeks, the PAC will have people knocking on doors and making calls in all seven of those targeted districts, talking to people about issues that are important to them and their feelings about the people who represent them.

There wont be anything nonpartisan about that effort, Merrill admitted.

We must disqualify the incumbent first and then qualify the challenger, she said. We have to make sure people know when their member of Congress votes against their interests.

That means staying in touch with those voters over the next year and not just making one call or one visit and moving on.

Voters in each of the targeted districts backed Democrat Hillary Clinton for president over Republican Donald Trump at the polls in November and then turned around and re-elected their GOP incumbents for Congress. The PAC effort will be focused on those ticket-splitters.

There are overlapping state Senate and Assembly districts where Democrats are winning, Merrill said. We have to ask why they are different from Congress.

Even with the best efforts, there are no guarantees. Republicans like Jeff Denham of Turlock (Stanislaus County), David Valadao of Hanford (Kings County), Steve Knight of Lancaster (Los Angeles County) and Darrell Issa of Vista (San Diego County), all were targeted by Democrat Party leaders last year and still managed to win, despite Clintons landslide victory in California.

The new GOP targets from Orange County  Ed Royce of Fullerton, Mimi Walters of Irvine and Dana Rohrabacher of Costa Mesa  all were easy winners in 2016, which will make them tough targets for any Democratic challenger.

For Democrats, though, taking back the House is a job that has to be done, and both Tauscher and Merrill are confident theyre the ones who can help do it.

We know how to win campaigns and we know how to win in California, Merrill said.
Sarah Ravani/The Chronicle

An 82-year-old woman was rushed to the hospital Sunday after a car hit her near Mount Davidson in San Francisco and the driver fled the scene, officials said.

The woman was walking on Portola Drive and Sydney Way shortly after 9 a.m. Sunday when a car struck her and kept going, according to the San Francisco Police Department.
Tuesday is the official start of summer, but Bay Area residents are already getting a taste of the dog days of August, with temperatures that broke records over the weekend forecast to stay sweltering in much of the region for the rest of the week.

On Monday, Bay Area residents were dressed in both sweaters and shorts, depending on where they were, as the National Weather service reported a 43-degree temperature spread at 1:30 p.m. when Half Moon Bay came in at 61 degrees and Livermore hit 104.

Keith Winston, 60, who lives in the Mission District of San Francisco  in an apartment without air conditioning  fanned his face with his hand as he walked through the Tenderloin on Monday afternoon.

Winston, an apartment maintenance worker, called the latest heat spell very unusual, especially after a Bay Area winter that seemed like it would never end.

Wearing a polo shirt and jeans, Winston paused in the shade to reflect on the heat.

Its just unbearable, he said. All night long.

Sunday set a score of new temperature records around the Bay Area, with some shattered by more than 13 degrees, according to Jan Null, a Golden Gate Weather Service forecaster.

June weather started out gloomy but has suddenly turned sizzling.

What made it so dramatic is that the first half of the month was very cool, said Matt Mehle, a forecaster for the National Weather Service. A week before this heat event, there were parts of the Sierra still receiving snow.

San Francisco, San Francisco International Airport, San Jose, San Rafael, Hayward, Richmond, Oakland and Kentfield all broke daily heat records Sunday, he said.

With the fog and low clouds hugging the coast and the Golden Gate, there are locations where its probably 20 degrees colder today than it was yesterday, Mehle said on Monday.

Inland Bay Area temperatures were scorching, with Concord hitting 108 degrees, breaking a record of 97 set in 2001, said Null. Livermore also set a record, reaching 106 degrees.

Although things cooled off to the low- to mid-70s on Monday in San Francisco from a record high of 88 on Sunday, inland temperatures still remained hot with Calistoga in the North Bay hitting 101 and Los Gatos in the South Bay reaching 98.

The East Bay had scattered thunderstorms late Sunday night and into Monday morning, but forecasters said that wasnt a driving factor in the slight cooldown in San Francisco along the coast on Monday.

The fog is the reason its getting colder. Ocean Beach looks like a typical summer day. Theyre sitting in the fog and the clouds, said Mehle.

Forecasters arent expecting any more rain this week. Instead, temperatures will climb back up to around 80 in San Francisco by Thursday before Friday brings a cooling trend that will carry into the weekend, Mehle said.

Looking ahead, forecasters predict the average Bay Area temperatures will be above normal through the beginning of July, Mehle said.

The high temperatures that hit the Bay Area Sunday are part of a bigger pattern of hot weather throughout the West Coast and the Southwest, forecasters say. Tuesday through Thursday will be the hottest days of the year so far in Central California with temperatures forecast to be 107 to 113, the weather service predicts.

In Phoenix, where temperatures are expected to climb to a blistering 120 on Tuesday, American Airlines warned passengers the heat may cause flights to be grounded.

The regional heating trend poses challenges to power companies in California.

We have to remember, not only is it getting warm in California, its getting hot in the Pacific Northwest, and its getting very hot in Arizona and the Phoenix valley  that also plays a role in how we manage our transmission system in California, said Steven Greenlee, a spokesman for California Independent System Operator, which runs the states electric grid.

The grid in the Western United States is interconnected and so if they have high loads on their transmission system, that also means we have less pathways that may be available to us to move electricity around, Greenlee explained.

He added that California imports electricity to help meet peak demand, but when other areas are dealing with their own heat waves, it lessens the amount available to import.

Bay Area Air Quality Management District officials urged commuters to carpool or take public transit instead of driving in an effort to keep the air clear.

In the Bay Area, 113,000 Pacific Gas and Electric Company customers were impacted by the heat wave that began Friday, according to PG&E spokeswoman Lynsey Paulo.

At the Sunday peak, around 7:30 p.m., 43,000 PG&E customers were without power. By 3:30 p.m. on Monday, power was restored to all but 2,391 customers.

The outage volume is going to make this the greatest single event since the great heat storm in 2006, Paulo said of the heat wave that began Friday.

The utility expects more records will be broken this week, according to Rod Robinson, a PG&E employee.

Were expecting to set an all-time peak this Thursday, he said.

SFGate producer Amy Graff and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

Filipa Ioannou is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: fioannou@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @obioannoukenobi
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After dominating Zymurgy Magazine's annual survey of the Best Beers in America for eight of the 15 years it has existed, Russian River Brewing Co.'s elusive double IPA Pliny the Elder has been usurped.

Zymurgy, which is the official publication of the American Homebrewers Association, found that following a survey of over 4,000 of its members, that title now belongs to Two Hearted Ale, an IPA brewed by Bell's Brewery in Galesburg, Michigan.

"This is an incredible honor for us," said Laura Bell, CEO of Bell's Brewery. "We got our start as homebrewers  that's how my dad got going  so we really identify with the homebrewing community. We take a lot of that spirit into what we do today."

Zymurgy asked voters to select 20 of their favorite commercial beers available across the United States in an online poll, tallied them up, and with those votes found both state and national winners. Pliny came in at second place nationwide (though first in California), with Founders' Breakfast Stout (Grand Rapids, Michigan) at third, Three Floyds' Zombie Dust pale ale (Hammond, Indiana) at fourth, and another of Bell's, the imperial IPA Hopslam, rounding out the top five.

The Homebrewers Association's list of top breweries in the United States looked similar to its top-ranked brews. Bell's Brewery landed at first, with Founders Brewing coming in at second. Russian River ranked third, with fellow Northern California brewery Sierra Nevada at fourth. Fifth place went to Escondido's Stone Brewing, and sixth to Firestone Walker.

For Russian River loyalists, the results may not come as a shock. Bell's began distributing to California in early 2015, and has steadily been adding more customers in its growing list of distribution territories, including Texas, North Dakota, Nebraska, and South and Central Florida.

Russian River's distribution of Pliny, meanwhile, remains limited; currently, just beer drinkers in California, Oregon, Colorado, and Philadelphia can buy it  if it doesn't sell out immediately. Those who can't get the beer to taste are, naturally, less inclined to vote for it as a favorite.

See the full list of winners at the Homebrewers Association's website.

This article has been updated with data provided by the AHA.

Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira.


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There were more questions than answers in the hours after Seattle police officers fatally shot a pregnant mother in her home Sunday morning.

Dozens of people held vigil outside the Magnuson Park apartment building where Charleena Lyles was fatally shot by police. Lyles, 30, had reported a burglary attempt at her home.

Friends, family and other residents of the Brettler Family Place apartment complex in the North Seattle park gathered to remember Lyles and express concerns related to the shooting. Seattle mayoral candidates Bob Hasegawa and Nikkita Oliver were in attendance, as was local hip-hop artist Macklemore.

RELATED: Woman dead after officer-involved shooting in NE Seattle

Family members spoke about Lyles, who was a mother of four who was several months pregnant with her fifth child.

"She loved her kids to death, she was always the life of the party and had a smile on her face ... I loved her so much," her older sister Monika Williams said.

Andre Taylor, whose brother of Che Taylor who was killed by Seattle police last year, and others spoke about the Black Lives Matter movement and grievances with the Seattle Police Department.

Early in the investigation, police contend Lyles was shot after brandishing a knife at officers. A lengthy inquiry is expected.

The shooting occurred just before 10 a.m., after officers arrived at Lyles fourth-story apartment in the 6800 block of 62nd Avenue Northeast.

Police Department spokesman Detective Mark Jamieson said two officers were responded to reports of a burglary. They arrived at the apartment, Jamieson said, and were confronted by a 30-year-old woman armed with a knife.

Her children were inside of the apartment at the time. Neither they nor the officers were injured. Police say the kids are being cared for by family members.

In weeks prior, Lyles was trying to get help for some mental health issues, Williams told KOMO News. She had been released from jail on Wednesday after being arrested following an argument with police.

"The obstruction was she wouldn't let go of her baby until I got here and she had some scissors in her hand. She didn't charge nobody or nothing," Williams said. "She just told them to call my sister and tell my sister gets here. And then when I got here, I told them then. 'Cause they didn't know whether to take her to jail or take her to mental health."

Lyles' family said three of her four children were inside the home at the time of the shooting. Lyles' brother, Domico Jones, says officers didn't have to use lethal force.

"If worse came to worse, use a Taser instead of a gun for someone that has three kids inside of their house," Jones said to KOMO News. "I feel that it's not gonna bring no harm to nobody."

Officers attempted CPR after the shooting Sunday, but they were unable to revive her.

The apartment building is owned by Solid Ground, a social service organization in Seattle.

Mike Buchman, Communications Director for the company, said trauma counselors are available for residents in need. The complex includes 9 properties and houses about 400 residents. About half of those residents are minors.

In a statement Sunday evening, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray said shooting was a tragedy and called for a full investigation.

"My thoughts are with the many people impacted, including the three children and the responding officers," Murray said. "This will be fully investigated.

Seattle police said both officers involved in the shooting will be placed on administrative leave, per department policy.

Williams set up a GoFundMe Sunday night to raise money to support Lyles' children. As of Monday morning, the campaign had raised more than double its initial goal of $5,000.

SeattlePI reporter Levi Pulkkinen contributed to this report, which contains information from KOMO News.

Seattlepi.com reporter Levi Pulkkinen can be reached at 206-448-8348 or levipulkkinen@seattlepi.com. Follow Levi on Twitter at twitter.com/levipulk.




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SEATTLE  Walkers on stilts. Marching bands. Giant papier mache creations, including one of Trump. Absurd floats. Fanciful dancers. And, of course, the notorious naked bicyclists.

All this and more fascinated a large crowd gathered Saturday to watch the Fremont Solstice Parade, Seattle's annual celebration of 16-hour days, the coming two (and hopefully three) months of great weather and the turning of the city's long, dark winter into a distant memory.

As for Saturday's weather, it was a lot like Seattle itself -- could have been better, could have been worse. The parade kicked off two hours earlier than usual under mostly cloudy skies and temperatures in the low 60s. It seemed only a guest appearance by full sunshine could lift the mercury to the day's predicted high of 71.

However, the clouds gave cover to those brave participants who chose to expose their pale, goose-pimpled flesh to the open air. Their sacrifice did not go unnoticed.

RELATED: City: Construction forcing Solstice Parade to find new storage site

For a first-time spectator of the parade, the annual event can be a bit eye-opening.

"It's the nudity," said Maxine Cordon, who watched the parade with her family. She's visiting from Nova Scotia.

"It's a lot of genitalia," said Olivia Tavilla of Portland, who watched the parade for the first time Saturday. "Available for viewing."

The parade has been a neighborhood institution for nearly 30 years.

"It's just a spirit of openness," said Tavilla. "And everybody needs to be accepted how they are, no matter what color, shape or size you are."

The parade is part of the Fremont Fair, which runs Saturday and Sunday. It includes a craft market, live music and food vendors. You can learn more about the fair on its website.

The fair began in the 1970s; the parade began in 1989.

RELATED: Fremont Solstice Parade through the years

Scan the gallery above for a look at the 2017 edition of the Fremont Solstice Parade.

KOMO News contributed to this article.
1 Police shooting: Seattle police are investigating the fatal shooting by two officers of a woman family members say was pregnant and struggling with mental health issues. The officers went to the apartment  where several children were present  after a call Sunday morning about a burglary, police said. At some point, the woman confronted them with a knife, and both officers shot their weapons, authorities said. The children were not injured, authorities said. Police on Monday released dash-cam audio of the encounter. The woman can be heard discussing with the officers that there was a break-in. Officers can then be heard saying Get back! Get back! and We need help before gunfire erupts. Relatives identified the woman as Charleena Lyles. Some questioned why nonlethal options werent used in the case.

2 Deadly arson fire: A woman was recorded on cell phone video pouring what appears to be gasoline through the window of a Milwaukee home and setting it on fire. Willie Greer, 72, died in the blaze Friday. Police say they have detained a 39-year-old woman in the case. The video shows a woman pouring the contents of a gas can through a window. Flames erupt and the woman walks away. It also shows another woman jumping to safety from a window and a group of young men trying to kick down a door, attempting to rescue people inside.
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Joel Jones doesnt believe there are coincidences in life.

So when the 61-year-old East Bay pastor and his wife followed an erratic freeway driver who went on to viciously attack a California Highway Patrol officer near American Canyon over the weekend, he knew he was there for a reason.

Jumping in and subduing the suspect on the shoulder of Interstate 80, Jones said, was Gods plan for him. Fortunately for him  and less so for the attacker  he was uniquely prepared for the task as a former college linebacker and retired cop.

She could have been toast, Jones said of the CHP officer. And she could have shot him, but the Lord mixed it up and said, No one is dying today.

His heroics Saturday morning not only saved the officer, but also may have spared others from a motorist engaged in an alleged crime spree. The driver, 49-year-old Gary Coslovich of San Jose, was suspected of plowing a truck into a Santa Clara County building last month because he was angry with the countys sanctuary policies for immigrants.

If the passerby hadnt stopped, the situation could have been a lot worse for the officer, said Officer Dawn Dwyer, a spokeswoman for the CHPs Solano office. They were amazing. Its nice to know that people are still willing to do that.

The injured officer, who was not named, has since been released from the hospital after being treated for moderate injuries, including cuts and bruises, officials said.

Coslovich, who was fired last month from his job as a painter for Santa Clara County, was booked into Solano County Jail on suspicion of several felonies including attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon and battery on a police officer.

The incident began around 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. Jones and his wife of 43 years were driving west on Interstate 80 when they noticed a white Ford F-250 barreling down the freeway at over 80 mph and tailgating other drivers.

One lady tried to get out of the way, but he rammed the rear of her car, Jones said Monday. She bounced off the rail and careened into traffic. Miraculously no one was hurt, but to my surprise, the truck just kept going.

Jones, a retired San Francisco sheriffs deputy, decided to follow the pickup driver while his wife called 911.

I thought, This is crazy. Hes got to be stopped or hes going to kill someone, Jones said.

As their vehicles neared American Canyon Road northeast of Vallejo, Jones watched the truck hit another driver. Soon, the pickup began to smoke and lose speed, the apparent toll of the collisions.

Jones drove up next to the vehicle to get a better look at the man behind the wheel.

I could see the silhouette of the driver calmly smoking a cigarette like he was on a Sunday stroll, he said. I thought, This guy must be out of his mind.

Moments later, a responding CHP officer pulled the driver over. And Jones pulled over, too, lagging about 15 yards behind the officer to see how the situation played out.

I said to my wife, We should just wait because theres going to be a conflict here, he said. This officer needed to have some kind of backup.

Sure enough, he said, the driver got out and rushed the officer.

He punched her in the face three times and then started stomping her, Jones said. At that point she was on her back. You could hear her screaming and her muffled cries.

Jones said the suspect, who was ranting incoherently, then appeared to reach down toward the officers waist, where her gun remained holstered.

Jones, a onetime linebacker at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, didnt hesitate. Lord be with me, he said to himself before launching his body at the attacker and knocking him to the ground.

While holding the mans face against the pavement, Jones said he wrenched one of his arms behind his back in a submission hold while other passersby ran over to help.

Jones wife, AnnaLisa, got out of the car to check on the officer.

My focus was on her, letting her know its going to be all right, she said. I started praying for her.

By then, several CHP units had responded to the scene and secured the suspect, later identified as Coslovich.

Public records show Santa Clara County officials filed for a restraining order last month against Coslovich stemming from the May 1 crash on county property.

Officials said he intentionally plowed his truck into the building on Berger Drive, doing $20,000 in damage, because he disagreed with the countys fight against President Trumps effort to punish sanctuary cities, said Lead Deputy County Counsel Michael Rossi.

After the wreck, Coslovich, a hunter, headed to Roseville (Placer County) to stay with his girlfriend while officials in the South Bay issued an arrest warrant. Soon, Rossi said, Roseville police picked him up for alleged drunken driving and brought him back to Santa Clara County, where he threatened to kill the Santa Clara Board of Supervisors.

Deputies placed him on a 72-hour involuntary psychiatric hold and confiscated his weapons and ammunition.

Jones  who had no idea who he was tangling with  grew up as one of 13 kids in a tough neighborhood on the south side of Chicago. He met AnnaLisa at age 14, and the couple has been together ever since. In the last two decades, they had a major epiphany and devoted their lives to their faith.

They describe themselves as soldiers of God and head a small non-denominational church in Crockett called Spirit of Truth Church Worldwide, where they co-host weekly radio sermons.

We were just doing our job, AnnaLisa said. God put the right person in the right place to do the right job.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter; @EvanSernoffsky
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Taipei, June 19 (CNA) Another fish farm in Taoyuan was confirmed Monday to have been infected with the tilapia lake virus (TiLV), bringing the total number to seven since the virus was first reported in the city on June 13, according to the Council of Agriculture (COA).
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Taipei, June 19 (CNA) A U.S. firm has submitted an application to export genetically modified potatoes to Taiwan, while the Council of Agriculture said on Monday that it will tighten its regulations governing imports of genetically modified potatoes from the United States by asking food suppliers to label products made using GM potatoes.
Young Jane Eyres seeking the opportunity to live out their own personal gothic fantasy need look no further.

A want ad on a British child care site has attracted a great deal of attention for its major caveat: You may have to work in an extremely haunted house.

"We were told it was 'haunted' when we bought it, but kept our minds open and decided to buy the house regardless," the listing for a nanny in Scottish Borders reads. "5 nannies have left the role in the last year, each citing supernatural incidents as the reason, including strange noises, broken glass and furniture moving."

The family has two children, ages five and seven, and, as the parents are gone "up to 4 nights per week" for business, the nanny will often need to be home alone with the kids. The home is described as a "lovely, spacious, historic property in a remote spot." The final detail lingers ominously.

The Telegraph spoke to the CEO of Childcare.co.uk, and he confirmed that the advertisement on his site is indeed legitimate.

"When we saw the advert we were stunned," Richard Conway told the Telegraph. "Some of the guys at HQ were skeptical but after talking to the family and their previous employees we realized it was a genuine position."

The family is willing to offer 50,000 per year and 28 days holiday for "the right person," which presumably would be someone with a strong constitution who isn't deterred by ceaseless, untraceable knocking.

"We haven't personally experienced any supernatural happenings, as they have been reported only while we've been out of the house, but we're happy to pay above the asking rate, and feel it's important to be as up-front as possible," the ad reads, sparking more questions than answers.

Adventurous nannies who aren't afraid of a Turn of the Screw-style meltdown can apply at Childcare.co.uk.
PARIS  French voters gave President Emmanuel Macrons upstart party a solid victory in Sundays parliamentary election, handing the centrist a strong mandate to reshape French politics and overhaul the countrys restrictive labor laws.

Pollsters projected Macrons Republic on the Move! and its allies could take up to 360 of the lower chambers 577 seats. Official partial results confirmed the trend, showing them with 327 seats, with 33 seats yet to be counted. The party will have far more than the 289 seats needed for an absolute majority to carry out Macrons program.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, a center-right politician who joined Macrons movement, said through their vote, a wide majority of the French have chosen hope over anger.

With 82 percent of the vote counted, the Interior Ministry said Macrons party had 42 percent of the vote, the conservative Republicans had 22 percent and the far-right National Front captured 10 percent. The Socialists, who ruled the nation before Macrons independent presidential victory in May, were decimated and only won six percent of the vote.

Republicans leader Francois Baroin declared his party the main opposition and wished Macron good luck because he said he wants France to succeed. He said conservative lawmakers are going to have a strong bloc in the lower house to be able to voice their views.

However, some prickly opponents vowed to do their best to counter Macrons plans. Far-right National Front leader Marine Le Pen registered a massive victory in her northern bastion of Henin-Beaumont, defeating Macrons candidate as she won her first French parliamentary seat. Le Pen was handily defeated by Macron in the May 7 presidential vote.

Le Pen said she would fight with all necessary means the harmful projects of the government, especially what she called Macrons pro-European, pro-migrant policies. She said her National Front party had won at least six seats  with not all votes counted  an increase from the two seats it held in the outgoing legislature.

Ultra-leftist Jean-Luc Melenchon, who Macron also defeated in the presidential vote, said he won in his Marseille district. Melenchon, whose party was projected to win 25 to 30 seats, denounced Macrons planned labor reforms that would make it easier to hire and fire French workers, calling them a social coup detat that he would fight.

Elaine Ganley and Sylvie Corbet are Associated Press writers.
LONDON  British authorities and Islamic leaders moved swiftly to ease concerns in the Muslim community after a man plowed a van into a crowd of worshipers outside a north London mosque early Monday, injuring at least nine people.

British media named the suspect as Darren Osborne, 47-year-old father of four who was living in Cardiff, Wales. British Security Minister Ben Wallace said authorities were aware of rising far-right activity but the suspect was not known to them prior to the attack.

Police are treating the incident as a terror attack. One man died at the scene, although he had been receiving first aid at the time and it wasnt clear if he died as a result of the attack or from something else.

The chaos outside the Muslim Welfare House in Finsbury Park follows three Islamist-inspired attacks over the past three months that have triggered a surge in hate crimes around Britain.

On June 3, Islamic extremists used a vehicle and then knives to kill eight people and wound dozens of others on London Bridge and in the popular Borough Market area. Police shot and killed the three Islamic extremists who carried out the attack.

In March, a man plowed a rented SUV into pedestrians on Londons Westminster Bridge, killing four people before stabbing a police officer to death outside Parliament. He was also killed by police.

To the north, Manchester was hit by a deadly attack May 22 when a suicide bomber killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert.

Police will assess the security of mosques and provide any additional resources needed ahead of celebrations marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, Prime Minister Theresa May announced.

The attack occurred about 12:20 a.m. when a speeding van swerved into worshipers who were giving first aid to a man outside the mosque. That man later died.

Police said the attacker who drove the van has been arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorism, including murder and attempted murder. A mob surrounded him and witnesses said the crowd began attacking him. A local imam, Mohammed Mahmoud, said he organized a group of people and shielded the man until police could take him away.

By Gods grace, we were able to protect him from harm, he said.

Danica Kirka and Paisley Dodds are Associated Press writers.
LONDON  A vehicle struck pedestrians near a mosque in north London early Monday morning, killing one man and injuring 10 people in what police are investigating as a terrorist incident.

Police said the 48-year-old man who was driving the car has been arrested and taken to a hospital as a precaution. He will be given a mental health evaluation.

The crash occurred at a time when the multiethnic neighborhood was crowded with Muslims leaving the Finsbury Park mosque after Ramadan prayers.

Police said the driver was detained by the crowd until police arrived.

The crash occurred shortly after midnight when police received reports of a collision between a van and pedestrians. Police said eight of the injured were hospitalized; the other two had minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing police give emergency heart massage to at least one of the injured.

The Muslim Council tweeted that worshipers had been struck and said its prayers were with the victims.

London police closed the area to normal traffic. A helicopter circled above the area as a large cordon was established to keep motorists and pedestrians away.

Eyewitness told Sky News and other British media that the van seemed to have veered and hit people intentionally.

Mohammed Shafiq of the Ramadhan Foundation, a Muslim organization, said that based on eyewitness reports it seems to be a deliberate attack against innocent Muslims.

Gregory Katz is an Associated Press writer.
BAMAKO, Mali  Jihadis attacked a hotel resort Sunday in Malis capital, taking hostages at a spot popular with foreigners. More than 30 people managed to escape though at least two were killed, authorities said.

Moussa Ag Infahi, director of the national police, said three of the assailants were killed while a fourth escaped.

Gunfire first rang out at the Campement Kangaba on the outskirts of Bamako in the late afternoon, according to a security guard who was working at the time.

Mahamadou Doumbia said a militant on a motorcycle entered the area around 3:40 p.m. and cried Allah Akbar before jumping off and running toward the pool area.

Then a car with three jihadis entered the resort and they started to fire their weapons, he said.

Malis security minister later issued a statement confirming at least two deaths.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. Sundays violence came about a week after the U.S. State Department warned of possible attacks on Western diplomatic missions and other locations in Bamako that Westerners frequent.

A U.N. official who spoke on condition of anonymity said those at the resort when the attack began included people affiliated with the French military mission, as well as the U.N. and European Union missions in the country.

Religious extremism in Mali once was limited to northern areas, prompting the French military in 2013 to lead a military operation to oust jihadis from power. But the militants have continued targeting Malian forces and peacekeepers, making it the deadliest U.N. mission in the world.
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PEDROGAO GRANDE, Portugal  A raging forest fire in central Portugal sent flames sweeping over roads, killing at least 62 people, many of them trapped in their cars as they tried to flee, officials said Sunday. The countrys prime minister called it the biggest tragedy that Portugal has experienced in decades and declared three days of national mourning.

A huge wall of thick smoke and bright red flames towered over the top of trees in the forested Pedrogao Grande area about 95 miles northeast of Lisbon where a lightning strike was believed to have sparked the blaze Saturday.

Portugal, like most southern European countries, is prone to forest fires in the dry summer months. At least four other significant wildfires affected different areas of the country Sunday, but the one in Pedrogao Grande was responsible for all the deaths.

The dimensions of this fire have caused a human tragedy beyond any in our memory, Prime Minister Antonio Costa said on his arrival at the scene Sunday. Something extraordinary has taken place and we have to wait for technicians to properly determine its causes.

Police searched charred areas of the forest and isolated homes for more bodies Sunday while 350 soldiers joined the 700 firefighters who have been struggling to put out the blaze.

The forest fire deaths were the biggest in memory in Portugal, which saw 25 soldiers die fighting wildfires in 1966. In August, an outbreak of fires across Portugal killed four people, including three on the island of Madeira, and destroyed huge areas of forest.

Resident Isabel Brandao said she had feared for her life when she saw the blaze.

Yesterday we saw the fire but thought it was very far. I never thought it would come to this side, she said Sunday. At 3:30 a.m., my mother-in-law woke me up quickly and we never went to sleep again. We were afraid the fire would reach us.

Other locals were also shocked.

This is a region that has had fires because of its forests, but we cannot remember a tragedy of these proportions, said Valdemar Alves, the mayor of Pedrogao Grande. I am completely stunned by the number of deaths.

Interior Ministry official Jorge Gomes said firefighting crews were having difficulties battling the fire, which was very intense in at least two of its four fronts. He said authorities were worried about strong winds that could help spread the blaze further.

Schools in the area were closed until further notice and outdoor fires were banned, authorities announced Sunday.

Gomes gave a grim description of the deaths to RTP. He said at least 30 people died inside their cars as they tried to flee between the towns of Figueiro dos Vinhos and Castanheira de Pera. He said 17 others died right outside their cars or by the road, 11 people died in the forest and two people died in a car accident related to the fire.

Helena Alves and Armando Franca are Associated Press writers.
MEXICO CITY  Mexicos most prominent human rights lawyers, journalists and anticorruption activists have been targeted by advanced spyware sold to the Mexican government on the condition that it be used only to investigate criminals and terrorists.

The targets include lawyers looking into the mass disappearance of 43 students, a highly respected academic who helped write anticorruption legislation, two of Mexicos most influential journalists and an American representing victims of sexual abuse by the police.

Since 2011, at least three Mexican federal agencies have purchased about $80 million worth of spyware created by an Israeli cyberarms manufacturer. The software, known as Pegasus, infiltrates smartphones to monitor every detail of a persons cellular life  calls, texts, email, contacts and calendars. It can even use the microphone and camera on phones for surveillance, turning a targets smartphone into a personal bug.

The company that makes the software, the NSO Group, says it sells the tool exclusively to governments, with an explicit agreement that it be used only to battle terrorists or the drug cartels and criminal groups that have long kidnapped and killed Mexicans.

But according to dozens of messages examined by the New York Times and independent forensic analysts, the software has been used against some of the governments most outspoken critics and their families, in what many view as an unprecedented effort to thwart the fight against the corruption infecting every limb of Mexican society.

We are the new enemies of the state, said Juan Pardinas, the general director of the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness, who has pushed anticorruption legislation. His iPhone, along with his wifes, was targeted by the software, according to an independent analysis. Ours is a society where democracy has been eroded.

The deployment of sophisticated cyberweaponry against citizens is a snapshot of the struggle for Mexico itself, raising profound legal and ethical questions for a government already facing severe criticism for its human rights record. Under Mexican law, only a federal judge can authorize the surveillance of private communications, and only when officials can demonstrate a sound basis for the request.

It is highly unlikely that the government received judicial approval to hack the phones, according to several former Mexican intelligence officials. Instead, they said, illegal surveillance is standard practice.

The Mexican government acknowledges gathering intelligence against legitimate suspects in accordance with the law. But the government categorically denies that any of its members engages in surveillance or communications operations against defenders of human rights, journalists, anticorruption activists or any other person without prior judicial authorization.

Azam Ahmed and Nicole Perlroth are New York Times writers.
BEIRUT  Russia on Monday threatened aircraft from the U.S.-led coalition in Syrian-controlled airspace and suspended a hotline intended to avoid collisions in retaliation for the U.S. military shooting down a Syrian warplane.

The U.S. said it had downed the Syrian jet a day earlier after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces conducting operations against the Islamic State group, adding that was something it would not tolerate.

The downing of the warplane  the first time in the six-year conflict that the U.S. has shot down a Syrian jet  came amid another first: Iran fired several ballistic missiles Sunday night at Islamic State positions in eastern Syria in what it said was a message to archrival Saudi Arabia and the United States.

The developments added to already-soaring regional tensions and reflect the intensifying rivalry among the major players in Syrias civil war that could spiral out of control just as the fight against the Islamic State group in its stronghold of Raqqa is gaining ground.

Russia, a key ally of Syrian President Bashar Assad, called on the U.S. military to provide a full accounting as to why it decided to shoot down the Syrian Su-22 bomber.

The U.S. military confirmed that one of its F-18 Super Hornets shot down a Syrian jet that had dropped bombs near the U.S. partner forces SDF. Those forces, which are aligned with the U.S. in the campaign against the Islamic State group, warned Syrian government troops to stop their attacks or face retaliation.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that as of Monday, all coalition jets and drones flying west of the Euphrates River will be tracked as potential targets.

Areas of northern Syria west of the Euphrates were controlled by Islamic State before Syrian government forces captured most of them in recent months. The Russians, who have been providing air cover for Assads forces since 2015, appear to want to avoid further U.S. targeting of Syrian warplanes or ground troops that have come under U.S. attack in eastern Syria recently.

It was the second time Russia suspended a hotline intended to minimize incidents with the U.S. in Syrian airspace. In April, Russia briefly suspended cooperation after the U.S. military fired 59 missiles at a Syrian air base following a chemical weapons attack that Washington blamed on the Assad government.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Washington is working to re-establish communications aimed at avoiding mishaps involving U.S. and Russian air operations in Syria. Speaking in Washington, the top U.S. military officer said the two sides were in delicate discussions to lower tensions.

The worst thing any of us could do right now is address this with hyperbole, Dunford said.

Bassem Mroue and Nataliya Vasilyeva are Associated Press writers.
Fire in Jemez 80 percent contained

Despite grueling temperatures over the weekend, crews managed to get a fire line around 80 percent of the Cajete Fire in the Jemez Mountains. The families who had been told to leave their homes have now been told it's safe to return. The blaze was caused by an abandoned campfire, an inexplicably dumb thing that was still happening in nearby forest during the fire.

Meanwhile, back at Rio Rancho ...

A brush fire northwest of the city has burned through

of scrub since yesterday afternoon. That's according to Sandoval County firefighters. They aren't clear on how the fire started. It's still five miles away from the Northern Meadows subdivision.

Reimagining the spaceport

No one would blame you if you forgot about Spaceport America. The $220 million facility has been lightly used since it opened in 2011. There have been about 40 launches, but nothing close to the bustling space tourism business promised by eternally delayed Virgin Galactic. Now, the man running the spaceport says New Mexico

to repurpose the place as a hub for more industrial commercial spaceflight.

Chase, crash and hostage situation ends in Alamogordo

Investigators suspected Caleb Scroggins had something to do with a Sunday morning shooting in Alamogordo. When they spotted him and tried to pull over his car, he took off, causing a crash with another car, then

north of town. He took 14 hostages, New Mexico State Police say, and exchanged gunfire with officers before a tactical team arrested Scroggins and freed the people inside the farm building.

Drunken argument leads to fatal SF shooting

Santa Fe police have

after an early Saturday morning shooting. They say Tim and Lapearl Baca were out celebrating Lapearl's birthday all night. The couple met Owens at Skylight downtown, went to Buffalo Thunder briefly, then Tim Baca and Owens were arguing about a song on the way home. Owens threatened to shoot Bacathen did, police say, after the driver of the car pulled over. Tim Baca was the father of four children.

Methane rule delayed

The federal government has delayed an Obama administration rule that required oil and gas producers to detect and repair methane leaks at drilling sites. It's a two-year delay and comes amid a flurry of environmental news highlighted

. The delay means New Mexico's methane hotspot will likely stick around.

Another scorcher

It's going to be hot, hot, hot this week. Santa Fe will stay relatively sane in the

for most of the week. Albuquerque will come close to triple digits today. You have to respect this kind of heat, and the

for how to keep cool and be safe.

Thanks for reading! The Word could swear "Take frequent, short naps at work" used to be on that heat-safety list.

Subscribe to the Morning Word at sfreporter.com/signup

Santa Fe Reporter
Welcome to Shakesville, a progressive feminist blog about politics, culture, social justice, cute things, and all that is in between. Please note that the commenting policy and the Feminism 101 section, conveniently linked at the top of the page, are required reading before commenting.
SEOUL: Popular South Korean web portal Naver Corp on Monday said it will work with global chipmaker Qualcomm Inc to further develop its Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform called Clova.



Under an agreement with Qualcomm's subsidiary, Qualcomm Technologies, Naver will provide Clova for use with the global giant's Internet of Things (IoT) chip processors, Yonhap news agency quoted the company as saying.



Various IoT products such as a smart speaker equipped with Qualcomm's IoT chips will also utilise Clova.



"We expect the cooperation with Qualcomm will help us boost the Clova-based AI system platform ecosystem," Naver CEO Han Seong-sook was quoted as saying.



Naver, in addition, plans to provide Clova on smartphones equipped with Qualcomm's mobile processors as a basic AI system platform, the company said.



"We will continue support so that manufacturers will be able to provide IoT products and services based on Clova and Qualcomm's technology platform," Lee Tae-won, CEO of Qualcomm Korea, added.



Clova, which is similar to Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri, combines speech recognition and natural language understanding to respond to a user's questions or to call up information, such as the weather.

Read Also:

BMW To Invest 130 Crore In India To Rev Up Operations

Microsoft, Intel, NVIDIA Invest In Element AI
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Profile Design, which I will be calling PD for the duration of what comes below, has just come out with new, and great, front-end products for tri. This is important for several reasons.



First, Im always going to default on contacts points as the most important part of a bicycle riding experience. Saddles, aerobars, anything that touches the body, but especially anything on which you rest your weight, is where you need to choose most carefully. Aerobars are a contact point (in 2 places, elbows and hands), you rest your weight on them, and they are responsible for both fit and handling. You might say your choice of aerobars is more important to your riding experience than your choice of the bike theyre on.

Bicycle product managers can (and often do) ruin an otherwise excellent tri bike via the placement of a bad aerobar (or a mismatched aerobar) on the bike. I can think of several examples of this for sale right now. Companies that want to save a dime by making their own bars (or specing an open mold no-name aerobar) can ruin an otherwise fine bike (all that R&D, marketing, and start-up money down the drain).



So, the aerobar is probably the single most important element to a tri bike, and Id rather have the right bar and a substandard frame than the other way around. Thats why Im going to spend a lot of time on what will probably seem a tl;dr product review to a lot of you.



Based on both function and price, PD already made the best clip-on aerobar with its J4 bracket and an F35 armrest. A lot of you are never going to know this bar because youre more familiar with PDs not great J2 bracket with either a F19or F22 armrest. These are truly forgettable bars and Zipp and 3T shot ahead of PD when PD was still horsing around selling its J2/F19 (which is still for sale today). But PDs T3 + Carbon and T4 + Carbon, at $199, were simply world beaters. They were easy and quick to adjust, comfortable, rather range-expansive in adjustability, and in particular adjusted wide enough.

The main problem with this system is that it was made with 2 forgettable extension shapes (T1 and T2) and the X dimension jumps (cockpit length) were 15mm, which was industry standard but couldve been shorter. Finally, the T3 and T4 carbon extensions did not contemplate Di2. They work perfectly for both mechanical shifters and with SRAMs eTap, but theyre awkward with Di2.



With the intro if the J5 bracket and F40tt armrest (what Im reviewing here) its already excellent aerobar system (J4 bracket, F35 armrest) has been rendered largely moot. You may still see the J4/F35 but if you do itll probably be coupled with aluminum extensions and will replace the J2/F19 systems. If so, that clip-on will probably sell for $139 or $140 and youre a fool (!) if you buy a clip-on other than this one to save $10 or $20. You deserve either a J4 or J5 bracket topped by either a F35 or F40tt armrest. Anyway



This new system is the brainchild of New Zealands David Bowden (CyclenutNZ on the Slowtwitch Reader Forum), working in tandem with PDs engineers at its Taiwan headquarters, and improves on the J4/F35 combo that was largely achieved under Mark Vandermolen, who was at PD for many years before recently moving over to FSA. Ill be writing about what FSA/Vision is up to later; as well as the excellent work Nathan Schickel is doing on aerobars over at Zipp; and well also talk about 3T (SuperDave Koesel!).

But today belongs to Profile Design because it just throws down with this new system.



Some of the nomenclature is a little confusing. Ill do my best. There are two aerobars Ill be writing about here. The first is a new Aeria, the Aeria Ultimate, which is PDs halo one-piece bar and it comes at a halo price of just over USD $1000. The second is the T4 + Carbon clip-on. Theyre side by side in the image highest above. Next image down are these bars with the pads removed, and youll see that the Aeria Ultimate has a different armrest cradle, with 5 holesets x 3 holesets. The clip-on bars cradle has 4 x 2 holesets.



Furthermore, the brackets underneath these pad cradles have different configurations. Not only that, if you look at these brackets from the side, the Aeria Ultimates bracket features the ability to rotation the armrests separate from the extensions. Not so the standard J5 bracket for the clip-on bars. You can see all of this in the image just above and just below.

The pads themselves, the armrests, on the Aeria Ultimate are called F40, while the armrests that go on the clip-on line is the F40tt. But the brackets they mount on are both called the J5 although its clear the brackets are not identical. Im sure David Bowden will explain this in a Facebook comment at the bottom of this article. Look for something like, Dan, you ignorant slut followed by the illuminating response.



Each system retains what is one of my favorite elements of the J4 bracket, which is the rearward-facing 5mm Allen bolt that tightens a wedge that affixes the extension in place. The only difference is now its a 4mm. As you can see below, both the J5 brackets have this (Ive got red arrows trying to show where they are).

Another element I loved about the J4/F35 was how wide you could adjust the pads without any kind of bracing system. Same with the J5 except you can adjust it even wider and as opposed to the 3 width options with the J4 there are 8 with the J5.

How does this compare to other aerobars out there? As noted Im going to be reviewing the new Zipp aerobars separately and the chart below is not fair to Zipp because it as made based on its previous design. Also, my guess (I didnt make this chart) is that the chart below does not contemplate Zipps pad extenders. What you can see is how wide this new PD bar goes and every data point below is a discrete place you can position the pad. If there are fewer data points, that means there are fewer positions in between the widest and narrowest position.



One of the issues with the 3T Vola/Revo is its lack of ease in width adjustment. You can see this in the chart. This is one reason why Cervelos P2 is often an easier bike to fit a customer to than its P3: the P2 had the J4/F35 system, the P3 the 3T system.

Now, about fore/aft adjustment. This is a little fuzzy to me. You can see all these holesets in the armrest cradles. These holes are 15mm apart, that is, when you put the pads in a forward or rearward holeset you're moving the pad fore or aft 15mm. But what Ive gotten from PD is that the bar is that fore/aft adjustability can be had in 7.5mm increments. How? If you look, youll see that the holes are a little further away from the leading edge of the armrest versus the trailing edge. How much? About 7.5mm. The pad itself is about 82.5mm long, front to back, and the center of the holes seems to me to be about 35mm from one end and 42.5mm from the other.



This tells me that if you swap the left and right cradles youd have that 7.5mm offset. Is that what PD has in mind? Dan, the ignorant slut wants to know. David? A little help here? In any case, thats what I did for the image below.

What if I swap the brackets? For this I simply took the extensions out and stuck them in backwards, and then swapped the cradles. Voila (below). Now I have a lot of forward pad adjustability, for those of you whose bikes are too small (lengthwise) and you need more cockpit distance. (If we cant do this David will let us know.)

There is a hydration option built into this system, but Ill cover than in a follow-up. Profile also introduced a stem that mates with this Aeria Ultimate, making the whole thing look like a superbar. Here it is. Its a big weighty, at 330g on my scale compared to a typical road stem which will weigh between 140g and 200g, and thats without its top cap. PD claims it's 380g, but that might be the 100mm version (theres this length as well as a 70mm), and with the top cap. Are these enough lengths? Yes, considering the massive adjustability of the new bars Im writing about here.

The stem is sexy! Especially when paired with the Aeria Ultimate. Is there any other advantage to it? Well, yes. There are ports for aero cable routing. I havent seen this stem on a bike so I cant opine as to the utility of these ports. Ive heard that Ceepo may be using this stem with the clip-on version of PDs new aerobars Im writing about above (and just a typical pursuit bar is my guess). That would be interesting to see (if thats true).

The clip-on versions above, the new T3 and T4 + carbon, will cost in the USD $225 range. This is for carbon extensions. In my opinion Profile Design ought to get rid of a lot of its product line, certainly the J2/F19/F22 stuff, as well as the T1 and T2 extensions (double upturn and S-bend). I heartily endorse the J4 and the new J5, the old F35 and the new F40 and F40tt. I also like the original Aeria and the new Aeria Ultimate and the new Aeria Ultimate stem. I cant speak to what Gran Fondoers might put on their bikes, or gravellers, or draft-legal racers, but for no-draft triathletes and for the product managers specing tri bikes you should first check out these bars written about here. Forget every other aerobar PD makes.



Then, look at what Tririg, Enve, PRO, 3T, Vision, Zipp are making. Then make sure these other bar companies are making a product that meets or exceeds the value and the performance of these bars on this page. Then if you want to buy something other than these bars written about here, okay. Just, these bars above are the standard the industry is going to be judged on.



Moreso, if youre considering a superbike with an integrated bar system, Ive only found one that is the equal or superior to the system above and that is the Bontrager system on the Speed Concept. Its a bitch to adjust, and there are some other issues, but its a great system. With this exception, and perhaps the Enve system on Cervelos P5X, none of the integrated bars are as good as the bars written about here. Memo to tri bike companies: look at PD before you embark on a futile mission.



The only downside to this aerobar is that its not low-profile. Theres no config where the pads are much lower than about 60mm above the centerline of the pursuit bar. What that means is that youll have to use another bar (e.g., TriRig) if thats what you need. Just, one caveat on the lowness thing. The Aeria Ultimate, because the centerline of the pursuits sit lower than the center of the 31.8mm clamp section, does sit lower than the clip-ons, and paired with PD's new stem that may well be a fairly low profile combo. But you can't get this lo-boy config with the clip-ons, only with the integrated superbar.



On the other end, this bar comes with 75mm of pedestals so you can get the pads about 140mm above the pursuit bar center. Of course, if you need all 75mm you probably either need a new bike or a new fitter. But thats another story.
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By Artemis Moshtaghian, CNN

My goodness. Things might be heating up again in the ME.(CNN)Iran's military announced on Sunday that it launched several missiles into Syria, targeting Islamic State fighters in retaliation for the attacks in Tehran on June 7. The missile strikes are the first reported ground-to-ground attack from Iran into Syria since the Arab country descended into a civil war in 2011."In this operation, several ground-to-ground midrange missiles were fired from IRGC bases in Kermanshah Province and targeted Takfiri forces in the Deir Ezzor region in Eastern Syria," the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on its official news website, Sepah News. The IRGC uses the term Takfiri to describe ISIS.Tehran was rocked by two deadly attacks on June 7 targeting Iran's Parliament building and a shrine dedicated to the republic's revolutionary founder Ayatollah Khomeini.Six assailants killed at least 16 people in the twin attacks, which ISIS claimed. It was the first time that ISIS, a Sunni Muslim group fighting Iranian-backed militias in Syria, has claimed responsibility for an attack in Iran.The IRGC had vowed revenge for the attacks and accused Saudi Arabia of supporting ISIS in the operation.Shiite-majority Iran and Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia have long had a sectarian feud. The rivals are on opposite sides of violent conflicts in Syria, Yemen and elsewhere. In Syria, Iran backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his fight against anti-government rebel groups and ISIS, which is primarily based in the Syrian city of Raqqa.CNN's Nadeem Muaddi, Shirzad Bozorgmehr and Angela Dewan contributed to this report.
The Australian National University could face at least $1.1 million in contractual charges and costs escalating at more than $70,000 a day if a court case with The Gods Cafe and Bar is not resolved in the next fortnight. A team of lawyers led by barrister John Purnell, SC, represented ANU against the cafe owner's Kamy Saeedi Lawyers' partner David Robens in a joint hearing of two cases each party brought against the other in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday. Jaye Min, owner of The Gods Cafe. Credit:Jamila Toderas The ANU and Mint International Pty Ltd, trading as The Gods Cafe and Bar, had lodged competing cases against the other party after the university ordered the cafe owner, Jaye Min to vacate the premises earlier this year. The cafe was one of several leaseholders in a university-owned building Mr Purnell said was slated for demolition in 2014 as part of the multi-million dollar Union Court redevelopment.

Mr Min's lawyers had lodged the first case, challenging ANU's contractual ability to evict the cafe with less than six months notice, before the ANU's counter-claim that that application to court was lodged after the statutory timeframe allowed. Mr Robens argued the university had to give six months notice, given his client's lease was until 2018 with an option to extend to 2023, rather than the April notice given to vacate by July. But Mr Purnell argued the university had given Mr Min appropriate notice and that he had known of the planned demolition, which had been touted before he signed the lease. Mr Robens also said he had been given little notice to complete preparing for a hearing after it was lodged last Friday, arguing for a fortnight to prepare. Mr Purnell said that he understood on the current schedule, if all the premises were not vacated by July 3, the university could face an initial charge of $1.1 million in costs and about $80,000 for each day the works were delayed.
Champion West Coast forward Josh Kennedy looks certain to return from injury for a classic showdown with rising glamour side Melbourne in Perth on Saturday.

Kennedy apparently wanted to play in the Eagles impressive home win over Geelong last Thursday.

But the big scoring ace was overruled by medical staff despite his desperate battle to prove fit from a strained right calf.

Kennedy is tipped to play in a potential blockbuster with a red-hot Demons after they climbed back into the top eight on Sunday with a powerhouse demolition of reigning premiers Western Bulldogs by a whopping 57 points.
Ex-union boss Kathy Jackson has long struggled with rules  like the finer points of the Corporations Act, which state it is illegal to use work credit cards to pay for personal holidays, clothes or mortgage repayments.

All her time spent unsuccessfully fighting those sorts of claims in a Federal Court civil suit apparently didn't impress on her how finickety court types get about rules and such.

On Monday morning, in the middle of a hearing into her alleged theft of half a million dollars of Health Services Union funds, Jackson was given a brisk refresher.

As prosecutors and defence counsel laboured over the slew of allegations against her  there are 164 charges on the sheet now  the one-time whistleblower got up and made for the courtroom door, but was quickly stopped in her tracks.
A nationwide recall of 13,000 off-road vehicles is to be launched by car manufacturer Polaris Industries, after an investigation revealed asbestos-laden parts in at least 12 models.

The recall of certain Polaris youth quad bikes, sold in Australia and New Zealand, was prompted by recent testing in the US, which identified asbestos in brake pads, brake shoes, gaskets and washers in some models.

The Polaris Outlaw 50 is being recalled after it was found to have asbestos-laden parts. Credit:Polaris

"Polaris is recalling certain youth all-terrain vehicles [ATVs] and associated service parts in Australia and select other countries because we believe they contain asbestos, which is banned in these jurisdictions," Polaris country manager Alan Collins said.

"Polaris has been working and continues to work collaboratively with the appropriate authorities in each jurisdiction, including the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, to quickly develop the appropriate remedy for these vehicles."
The Grenfell Tower fire in London may have been preventable with better oversight and renovation technology. But there is a strong reason why it wasn't prevented: high-rise buildings aren't suitable for public housing, and wherever they are used in this way, they are a source of danger.

The investigation is ongoing, but so far the facts of the Grenfell Tower case appear straightforward. Residents have long complained of inadequate fire safety in the 24-storey building  power surges, insufficient and outdated firefighting equipment, an insufficient frequency of inspections. In response, they received at least one lawyerly demand that they take down blog posts.

Last year, the building was refurbished, receiving new windows, heating and ventilation systems  and cheap plastic-and-aluminum-based interior cladding, the same type that was responsible for a similar quick upward-spreading fire in a Melbourne apartment block in 2014. The local government, which owns the building, splashed out on the cladding to spruce up the grim-looking tower, built in 1974, because it was tall and visible from anywhere in the affluent area - Kensington, where the average rent on a one-bedroom apartment runs to $3400 (1900) a month, compared with an average rent of $2650 a month for London as a whole.

As in much of Europe, the use of tower blocks as public housing in Britain began in the 1950s with a decision to provide public subsidies based on building height. The 1965 Housing Subsidy Act spawned 4500 tower blocks by 1979. It wasn't a great idea for many social reasons. By the end of the 1970s, a growing body of research showed that the social alienation of living in a high-rise increased psychological stress, that toxic materials used in industrial construction and insufficient thermal insulation led to health problems, and that widespread crime and disaffection was linked to the faulty urban planning.
What if the butchers of so-called Islamic State set up a branch of their barbarian "caliphate" in South East Asia with the aim of waging their vicious jihad throughout the region? Too late. They already have.

Declaring themselves to be "Islamic State - Eastern Region", they have marked their arrival with trademark violence and bravado. It appeared as a minor news item last month - a gang of armed militants was reported to be attacking a minor city in the Philippines, fighting under the black flag of IS, or Daesh.

The Philippines National Army engaged the thugs. President Rodrigo Duterte promised to wipe them out, and it was widely assumed that this small spot fire would soon be extinguished. But that was fully a month ago now. In spite of heavy fighting, aerial bombardment, tank fire, helicopter gunships and US technical support, the June 12 deadline for victory set by Duterte came and went a week ago.

And the city of Marawi, about the size of Hobart with a population of some 200,000, remains partly under the control of the insurgents. The army acknowledges that perhaps a fifth of the city remains contested; Daesh claims half. About 300 people have been killed, mostly militants, but including at least 58 soldiers and 26 civilians, according to the army. Much of Marawi is shattered and most of the population has fled.
Here's a fun question for you: how long before death would you fancy some time off?

See, there's a still-entirely-live plan to raise the retirement age to 70 for anyone born after 1966, which is touted as a way to ensure that people maintain their independence and keep contributing to our great shared future - oh, and coincidentally reduce the amount the pension is costing the federal budget.

And that's lovely, except there are a few big problems for our still-mortal population.

One is that ageism is alive and well in the Australian workplace, with a recent study by the University of South Australia's Centre for Workplace Excellence concluding that "almost a third of Australians perceived some form of age-related discrimination while employed or looking for work in the last 12 months - starting as early as 45 years of age". When it comes to the Australian workforce it appears that the older you are, the more desirable you ain't.
The Turnbull government's progress towards a historic victory on its new Gonski 2.0 school funding model threatens to be derailed by an internal rebellion from conservative MPs furious about a $4.6 billion hit to Catholic schools.

Just days before a Senate vote, the government is battling on two fronts with a Liberal senator threatening to cross the floor and the Greens unable to commit to a deal because of internal division.

Despite Greens leader Richard Di Natale and education spokeswoman Sarah Hanson-Young's work to secure major concessions from the government, there remains strong resistance from Greens MPs to any deal that would anger public sector teacher unions.

The government had been growing increasingly confident it could pass its changes without the Greens by securing the votes of the One Nation senators, Nick Xenophon Team and three other crossbenchers.
There have been three motions in the Senate to do with refugees today.

The first - from Labor senator Lisa Singh - expressed support for refugees and was passed.

The second - from the Greens calling for the Manus Island and Nauru centres to be closed - was defeated 43 votes to 9 votes.

The third - from senators Cory Bernardi and Pauline Hanson calling for Australia to abandon the Refugee Convention - was defeated 50 votes to 6 votes.

That pretty much sums up the state of play on this topic.
Ground broke Monday morning on the site of the $300 million, 360,000-square-foot chicken plant south of Fremont. A ceremony took place at the future location of the Costco-Lincoln Premium Poultry plant near the intersection of Yager and Cloverly roads.

Gov. Pete Ricketts and Fremont Mayor Scott Getzschman spoke to the crowd and were joined by representatives from z Wholesale, and the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership.

The facility is expected to add about 800 jobs and produce 2 million chickens per week to be sold at Costco stores, a press release from the Ricketts office states.

Ricketts said the project will give economic opportunities to local residents, including farmers. Overall, it is projected to have a $1.2 billion economic impact on the state each year, he said.

To put that in perspective, thats about 1 percent of our overall state economy, Ricketts said. Thats big. Folks, thats how we grow Nebraska.

Ricketts said it was a team effort to reach the groundbreaking.

I just want to end on how grateful we are for the opportunity to be able to serve Costco and Lincoln Premium Poultry, Ricketts concluded, and what great companies these are with great reputations for being stewards of the environment and socially responsible.

Rumors about the plant began in March 2016. It was controversial in the Fremont community. Opponents voiced concerns about land and water pollution, odors, housing and school for additional labor and their families and the possible threat of avian bird flu.

A lawsuit introduced by Nebraska Communities United said the land was illegally ruled blighted and substandard for tax incremental financing purposes. The lawsuit recently was dismissed by a Dodge County judge.

Costco announced plans for an expanded version of the poultry facility. The expansion was reapproved by the Fremont City Council in December. The original proposal was for a $180 million project of 250,000 square feet of land. The development is eligible for more than $18.3 million in tax-increment financing, almost $5 million more than originally projected.

Getzschman thanked the city council, planning commission, Ricketts, State Sen. Lynne Walz, former State Sen. David Schnoor, the Dodge County Board of Supervisors, Fremont Chamber of Commerce and more for their hard work to bring this project to fruition.

For the past 22 months, weve worked hard to ensure Costco and Lincoln Premium Poultry that Fremont, Nebraska, was the best partner for this project, Getzschman said.

Getzschman said the $1.2 billion annual impact brings stability not only to Fremont, but to Nebraska and western Iowa.

No project that is worth having comes without the challenges and stresses and strain that weve had with this project, Getzschman said. This team did a monumental job. Congratulations. I would like to thank the citizens of Fremont for embracing and supporting this project.

During the public hearing process, we heard testimony for and against this project. Because of this testimony, and considerable due diligence done by Costco and Lincoln Premium Poultry, the citizens of Fremont can rest assured that this will be a safe and environmentally friendly project.

Getzschman said work has begun to prepare for the growth the plant will bring to Fremont.

Now the heavy work begins, Getzschman said. Weve begun to work on housing. We have several proposed projects already in different stages of development in and around the Fremont area.

Getzschman said initial conversations have begun with the Nebraska Department of Labor to find a workforce for the poultry plant and existing businesses.

We are diligently working on the necessary infrastructure to ensure this facility has the necessary power, gas, water and sewer capacity required for the first day of production, Getzschman said.

The plant is projected to open in April 2019.

The city of Fremont looks forward to building this relationship that will truly change and strengthen our community economically for many, many years to come, Getzschman said.

The speakers focused on the economic impact the plant will have on the community, beginning immediately with the construction.

When everything is said and done, the buildings on this location here and farms that will be placed across the region will approach $400 million dollars worth of new construction, said Randy Thelen, senior vice president of the Greater Omaha Economic Development Partnership.

When the facility is up and running, imagine all the small businesses that are going to have an opportunity to support this facility, Thelen said. A facility of this scale requires all kinds of small business support.

Thelen said the best impact will be the nearly 1,000 jobs added. He also thanked Ricketts for the personal attention he gave to the project.

Only one (of eight) governors that Ive worked with participated in a project at the early stages before the decision was made, Thelen said. There was a moment early on in this project where we had some challenges. The governor got up early, joined us for a meeting in Fremont, 7:30 a.m., and gave us a quick (confidence) boost.

Jonathan Luz, Costco director of strategic planning, said the project came from the dedication of Ricketts, Getzschman, many people in the Fremont community and Lincoln Premium Poultry.

Our fortune is a product of the extraordinary efforts of Fremont citizens and the accomplished farming community that recognizes the benefits of the revenue and diversification that this will bring to them and to their families, Luz said.

Its now time to put the vision that we all share into action and results, Luz said. I know that I speak for my entire management team when I say that we are eager to continue our work with the community, officials at all levels, our trusted construction partners, and with everyone else involved in order to make this business something that Fremont, Nebraska and Costco can truly be proud and fortunate to be part of together.

Ricketts said Nebraska had more economic development projects per capita than any other state last year, more than North Dakota, South Dakota and Kansas combined.

We want to build on that momentum, Ricketts said.
Los Angeles: A Los Angeles County coroner's report released on Monday revealed a mixture of drugs that were in actress Carrie Fisher's system when she went into cardiac arrest on an LA-bound flight and later died.

Fisher's toxicology review found evidence of cocaine, MDMA (better known as ecstasy), alcohol and opiates when she was rushed to Ronald Reagan UCLA Hospital on December 23, a toxicology report showed.

The test results "suggests there was an exposure to heroin, but that the dose and time of exposure cannot be pinpointed. Therefore we cannot establish the significance of heroin regarding the cause of death in this case."

The tests revealed that the cocaine would have been consumed within the previous 72 hours, according to the autopsy.
Paris Jackson, the only daughter of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, wants to carve out her own place in the spotlight.

So much so that family questions are completely off-limits  even for Vogue Australia, where she makes her front cover debut for the July issue in a shoot captured by Patrick Demarchelier and styled by Christine Centenera, who is also Kanye West's Yeezy runway stylist.

The 19-year-old, who has taken the fashion world by storm over the past year, conducted the interview by text message. "Something we have never before agreed to at Vogue, but which seemed appropriate for someone of her generation," editor-in-chief, Edwina McCann, said.

While the model and actor is happy to speak about her spirituality (she studied "Buddhism for about two years before finding Wicca"); her female heroes (Michelle Obama); if she is an idealist or a realist (both); who she would most like to interview dead and alive (John Lennon and Paul McCartney) and who her best friends are (her dog and her big brother [Michael Jr., 20]), requests to elaborate on her famous family are a no-no.
Warning: distressing images

Australian tourists are unwittingly eating dog meat in Bali and supporting a racket that steals and brutally kills the animals, an investigation has uncovered.

A dog screams as it's captured. Credit:Animals Australia

In distressing footage, shot by animal rights organisation Animals Australia, dogs are seen being cruelly captured and killed before their meat is served on the Indonesian island's beaches.

Balinese gangs are seen trapping dogs with wire nooses before the animals are bound and bagged and taken to crude slaughterhouses.
Water-ski racing authorities should consider capping speeds after the "tragic death" of a champion observer on NSW's Hawkesbury River, a coroner says.

Victorian father-of-four Ian Baker died after his superclass boat The Ringmaster flipped while travelling at 187 km/h during a qualification event, the day before the 2014 Bridge to Bridge Ski Race.

Ian Baker died after his superclass boat flipped while travelling at 187 km/h.

Deputy State Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan told the Glebe Coroner's Court calls for a speed limit from the sport's participants had been a "striking feature" of the inquest.

She recommended Ski Racing Australia consider possible speed restrictions in the unlimited and super-class categories and that Roads and Maritime Service look at whether speed limits should be part of aquatic licences for the Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic.
The former boyfriend of Carly McBride has been charged with her murder, two-and-a-half-years after the death of the Lake Macquarie mother.

Police will also visit Lithgow Correctional Centre later this week to make an arrest of a second man in the case.

In a press conference on Monday afternoon, police revealed they had arrested a 39-year-old Buff Point man who had been in a short relationship with Ms McBride in the lead-up to her disappearance on September 30, 2014.

Fairfax Media has previously reported that Sayle Kenneth Newson had been in a short relationship with Ms McBride before her death.
A man has told a jury he had absolutely nothing to do with a parcel bomb that maimed his friend in Sydney's north-east almost 20 years ago.

Roberto Saenz de Heredia, 48, said he fled Australia after the bombing because he knew he would not get police protection.

Mr de Heredia lived overseas for 17 years, before he was extradited to Australia from the UK in 2016 to face court.

He denied that he was scared of being convicted of attempted murder when he left the country in 1999, using a friend's passport, after he was ordered to stand trial.
Two men stand together holding hands in the dock in a Queensland District Court in the late 1980s - their only crime is being in love.

In a shameful episode from the state's history, gay people were prosecuted for a range of offences including indecency, unnatural offences and sodomy, until homosexuality was decriminalised in 1991.

A gay couple was forced to face court after being charged with gross indecency in the 1980s. Credit:iStock

John and John were in a committed relationship for 15 years, one had served his country in Vietnam, and they loved each other dearly.

One day, police came to their home on the Gold Coast to investigate an unrelated and unproven matter.
The underneath of a Velop, with two Ethernet ports and power along with on/off and reset buttons. The cable guide in the bottom right corner allows the cables through while ensuring the Velop stands level. You connect the first Velop hotspot to your broadband modem/router using the supplied Ethernet cable, then spread the other Velops around your home  up high is best but remember they need access to power. Frustratingly Linksys has used painfully wide AC plugs which block the power point on either side. As you add each Velop, the app tests the network to ensure that the new hotspot isn't too far away from the others. You can add up to 10 Velops to a network and if you need to place them further apart it's possible to link them directly via an Ethernet cable. The Linksys app offers guidance on placing your Velops around the house. Credit:Adam Turner Heart of your network

The primary Velop connected to your broadband modem can act as the heart of your home network, handing out IP addresses and managing your internet access. Each Velop features two Ethernet ports, so you can connect the primary Velop's spare port to an Ethernet switch and then run cables around your home. Adding a Velop is a painless process. Credit:Adam Turner You can also connect computers and other devices to the Ethernet ports on the other Velops spread around your house. There are no USB ports for connecting printers or storage. Thankfully there's also the option to run the primary Velop in Bridge mode, letting it run your WiFi network while your broadband modem/router continues to act as the heart of your digital home. The app runs tests to ensure you've chosen a good spots for your extra Velops. Credit:Adam Turner

This is important because the Velop gear is missing some of the advanced features that power users might look for in networking gear. For example you can't alter the DHCP-assigned IP address range or set custom DNS servers. You can set up port forwarding but you can't allocate fixed IP addresses, although the Reserve DHCP option works roughly the same. Opting for Bridge mode means you can hand these advanced tasks over to your broadband modem/router, but in return you lose access to the Velop's parental and device prioritisation features  which isn't a problem if your broadband modem/router can handle these tasks. You don't want both the Velop and your broadband modem handing out IP addresses or things can get messy. The app makes it easy to manage your Velop network. Credit:Adam Turner Update June 26: Linksys is adding a browser interface to Velop along with; - DHCP server access for automatically assigning IP addresses to devices that come onto the network.

- DNS configuration for linking host names, such as a web address to a specific IP address.

- Troubleshooting: device table, router report, ping/trace route, logs.

- Security: firewall, VPN passthrough, DMZ settings.

Traffic cop The Velop runs a tri-band 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO network with a combined speed of up to 2200Mbps. This is a fancy way of saying that it's designed to play traffic cop and ensure that the faster WiFi gadgets on your network aren't hampered by the slower ones. It does lack the option to set different WiFi network names for the 2.4 and 5GHz bands, instead all those bands appear under a single SSID (although you can create a separate guest network). This single SSID limitation isn't necessarily a bad thing as the Velop employs bandsteering to automatically shift your devices between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks to offer the best performance depending on the available signal strength  a handy trick when your home has patchy WiFi coverage. While 5GHz is faster, 2.4GHz has a longer range and does a better job of punching through walls. I've run separate 5GHz and 2.4GHz networks for years, but I'm a convert to bandsteering having testing several bandsteering-capable WiFi routers and seen the benefits of my iPhone automatically switching to 2.4GHz when 5GHz struggles to reach it. The Velop gear also uses beamforming to direct the signal towards your devices.

Examining the Velop network with WiFi analysis tools, you can see that each hotspot is running a 5GHz ac network using 80MHz channels to deliver 866Mbps, along with a 2.4GHz b/g/ac network using 20MHz channels to deliver 173Mbps. This is more than enough to do a home NBN broadband connection justice. The primarily Velop also runs a 5GHz ac, 866Mbps 80MHz backhaul channel to talk to the others. The Velops can also relay data, which means they don't all need to be within range of the primary Velop. All up this is a better arrangement than most WiFi range extenders, which tend to offer less bandwidth via the secondary hotspots to allow for backhaul. In this scenario there's a major performance hit when you roam off the primary hotspot, but that's not the case with the Velop gear. On the map Put to the test against Telstra's Frontier gateway WiFi modem, in a narrow three-story house, a single Velop hotspot in the lounge room on the middle floor can't quite match the Telstra modem's coverage footprint  judging by Telstra's WiFi mapping app.

On the left you can see the coverage with the Telstra router placed in the front lounge room on the middle floor of the house. In the middle you can see the slightly diminished WiFi footprint when the Telstra router is replaced with a single Velop. On the right you can see the improved footprint when a second Velop is placed at the red square in the back dining room, improving the coverage on the outside deck. You can see that placing a second Velop in the dining room, 11 metres away at the back of the house, does little to increase the coverage on the middle floor except that it improves the WiFi signal out on the deck. That's always been a blackspot due to the fact there's an external wall between it and the WiFi modem, but now the second Velop can relay traffic back to the primary Velop. Of course most homes would have more floor space than this, and that second Velop would prove more valuable if it was further away from the first Velop. Keep in mind this is a three story house with a WiFi modem in the front room on the middle floor. Reliable WiFi coverage on the floors above and below has always been an issue, especially upstairs.

On the left you can see the top floor coverage with the Telstra router on the floor below, marked by the blue square. In the middle you can see the diminished WiFi footprint when the Telstra router downstairs is replaced with a two Velops . On the right you can see the greatly improved footprint when a third Velop is placed on this top floor at the red square in the master bedroom. This is where the Velop gear really starts to shine. Placing a third Velop upstairs in the master bedroom makes a world of difference to the upstairs WiFi coverage. Meanwhile the second Velop in the dining room has improved the downstairs coverage at the back of the house but, depending on your priorities, you might prefer to locate that second Velop downstairs. On the left you can see the bottom floor coverage with the Telstra router on the floor above, marked by the blue square. In the middle you can see the diminished WiFi footprint when the Telstra router is replaced with a single Velop. On the right you can see the improved footprint when a second Velop is placed above on the middle floor.

It's worth mentioning that the WiFi mapping results varied and what you see are the best readings obtained. The variations are seemingly due to beamforming and bandsteering, which mean that the network is always in flux in an effort to deliver the best performance to all your wireless devices. So what's the verdict? Linksys' Velop gear does a great job, especially if you're struggling with the complexities of a multi-story home. Apart from lacking a few advanced configuration options, the only real drawback is the hefty price tag which means it should be your last resort after you've worked your way through all the broadband and WiFi troubleshooting tips. To be fair, rival mesh WiFi network Netgear Orbi isn't cheap either at $699 for two hotspots. I haven't put the Orbi gear to the test yet, or alternatives like Google WiFi, so it's worth weighing up your options. For the price of one Linksys Velop you could upgrade your old WiFi router to a newer model which will probably offer stronger signal strength along with benefits like beamforming and bandsteering. Of course this still might not be enough to solve your problems if you live in a large home with multiple blackspots due to building materials and other issues.
Is your child smarter than an ape?

Research from Australian scientists shows that it takes quite a few years for children to be able to outsmart our hairier cousins.

Australian scientists discover it takes a few years for children to out-think our hairier cousins. Credit:AP

Foresight - the ability to imagine and prepare for future possibilities - is considered one of the hallmarks of intelligence, and distinguishes humans from animals.

Research, published in peer-reviewed journal Biology Letters this month, by a team of University of Queensland researchers led by Professor Thomas Suddendorf suggests we aren't born with this ability but it develops as our brains do.
Rani Featherston. "She said she was going to get me," Bain-Singh later told homicide detectives. "I just pulled out a knife and stabbed her." Police at the scene of the crime on Lace Street, Doveton, in 2014. Credit:Penny Stephens Bain-Singh stabbed Ms Featherston 21 times in the face, chest, back and neck and left her body, where it was discovered by factory workers about five hours later. She was stabbed about 500 metres from her home.

Prosecutor Anne Hassan said Ms Featherston was often seen drunk around Doveton and was known to verbally abuse people in the street, but was considered harmless. Rani Featherston the day before she was killed. Credit:Victoria Police Five months before her death, Ms Featherston walked past Bain-Singh's home and ran her hand over the fence, causing the dogs to bark, Ms Hassan said. Ms Featherston said at the time she would jump the fence to get at the dogs, but was not violent. In March last year, as detectives investigated the murder, Bain-Singh called his former partner and told her to remember that Ms Featherston had threatened to stab them over the incident involving their dogs.

Ms Hassan said there was no evidence to back this. Bain-Singh also told his ex that around the time of the murder, he was working for a butcher in Pakenham, when really he was unemployed. Ms Hassan said Bain-Singh later confided to an undercover policeman he constructed an alibi about being asleep in preparation for work. The reality was Bain-Singh's world had broken down.

Ms Kaddeche said by March 2014, her client was unemployed, had broken up from his partner, was struggling to pay rent and was addicted to cannabis. Eleven days before the murder, he broke into a Doveton house and attacked Daniel Maynard in his bed. Mr Maynard suffered a fractured skull, lacerations across his body and a deep stab wound to his left hand, which surgeons had to partially amputate. Mr Maynard, 55, told the court the attack left him with 10 per cent use of his left hand. The two attacks were unrelated, the court heard.

Bain-Singh, now 24, pleaded guilty to Ms Featherston's murder, intentionally causing serious injury and aggravated burglary. Ms Featherston's devastated brothers told the court their sister's death had caused all-consuming grief and shattered their lives. Their broken-hearted mother died from illness about a year afterwards, they said, without knowing who killed her only daughter. Older brother Matthew said he remained shocked "Rani could be killed because someone had a bad day". Younger brother Aaron said his sister raised him after their parents' divorce and would have done anything for him and others.
PLATTSMOUTH  A Plattsmouth man will spend time in state prison for sending multiple threatening text messages to a female victim.

Kirk C. Baldwin, 44, appeared in Cass County District Court on Monday morning for a sentencing hearing. Baldwin pled no contest in January to one Class IIIA felony charge of terroristic threats and one Class IV felony charge of violation of protection order. He also pled guilty to one Class IV felony charge of possession of controlled substance-methamphetamine.

A Cass County Sheriffs Office deputy arrived at a Beaver Lake gas station in September 2016 after a female victim reported receiving multiple text messages from Baldwin. The deputy viewed the text messages and learned many of them were threatening in nature.

The deputy reported one of Baldwins text messages included threats against the victims children. Another message warned the victim she would have some bad dental if she met with Baldwin. The victim told the deputy she felt this meant Baldwin would physically strike her in the face.

Deputy County Attorney Richard Fedde said the victim had filed a protection order against Baldwin earlier in September 2016. Fedde said Baldwin was aware of the protection orders contents and knew what the consequences could be if he tried to contact her. The protection order barred him from contacting the victim by any means of communication.

Baldwin had twice been previously convicted of violating a protection order in Douglas County. One conviction took place in 2009 and the second happened in 2015.

Baldwins drug offense took place in October 2016. Plattsmouth police officers used a search warrant at Baldwins residence in Beaver Lake that month. Officers discovered a small package in an ashtray that contained residue. State crime lab workers later confirmed the substance was methamphetamine.

Fedde told the court Monday morning that he felt a prison sentence was appropriate. He said Baldwins criminal history included approximately four pages of previous offenses. He also asked the court to sentence Baldwin to consecutive prison terms because the text messages and drug offense happened on different dates.

Defense attorney Julie Bear asked the court to place her client on probation. She said Baldwin had obtained a chemical dependency evaluation and was currently receiving outpatient treatment services. She said probation would allow Baldwin to continue addressing his drug addiction.

District Court Judge Michael Smith said he felt Baldwins criminal record warranted a prison sentence. He also said he felt Baldwin would not be able to successfully complete a potential probation term.

There are compelling reasons why you cannot be effectively supervised on probation, Smith said.

Smith sentenced Baldwin to two years in the Nebraska Department of Corrections on both the terroristic threats and violation of protection order charges. Each charge includes nine months of post-release supervision.

Smith also sentenced Baldwin to two years in state prison on the methamphetamine charge. He ordered him to serve that term consecutively to the other two charges. The ruling means Baldwin will spend at least two years in prison if he receives credit for good time.

Baldwin became angry when he heard the verdict. He uttered several obscenities as a Cass County Sheriffs Office deputy led him out of the courtroom.
A hunt is on for a pair of bushwalkers who police fear may be lost in the Otways after their phone cut out during a call for help.

A man called triple zero about 1pm on Sunday stating he and his son were lost.

He told police he believed they were about 30 minutes from Forrest-Apollo Bay Road but were unable to find their way back to the road.

But the man's phone cut out during the conversation and police were unable to confirm the identity or location of the duo.

Police are seeking information on the identity of the two people and the possible location they were heading.
Australian tourists are unknowingly being fed dog meat in Bali, with more than 70 restaurants serving it, an explosive ABC report claims.

Evidence provided to the ABC's 7:30 report claims the dogs are brutally caught and then butchered not far from the beaches on Western Australia's favourite holiday island.

Dog meat is being sold at the beaches in Bali, the ABC's 7:30 program reports. Credit:Animals Australia

Some of the animals are poisoned, which could potentially be fatal to humans, a leading toxicologist told the program.

Whilst eating dog meat is not illegal in Bali, killing animals cruelly or eating meat contaminated with poison is against the law, Animals Australia's campaign director Lyn White said.
A South Perth man has been charged with setting fire to his Rivervale business on Sunday night, causing over $500,000 in damage.

Police spokeswoman Ros Weatherall says arson squad officers charged a man after an investigation into the blaze, which broke out about 6pm on a property on Great Eastern Highway.

The fire caused over $500,000 in damages. Credit:9 News Perth

Emergency services responded to the fire and a man was found in front of the property and was arrested. He was brought to Royal Perth Hospital for a health assessment.

Police claim the 41-year-old man started the fire in the building and failed to extinguish it or alert emergency services.
The WA Catholic Education Commission has been fined $9000 after a six-year-old child wandered away from a Bayswater after-school care unnoticed and was found by a member of the public 20 minutes later.

The girl left St Columba's Primary School around 5pm on February 2 - the second day of the school year.

The six-year-old girl was returned to the child care centre after being spotted by a member of the public. Credit:Michele Mossop

The tribunal, earlier this month, found the child slipped away unnoticed through a gate that had a self-locking mechanism which failed to operate.

"Her absence was only noticed when an unknown member of the public found her at the Bayswater Family Centre some 250 metres from the service and called her mother, who then advised the service at approximately 5:19pm," the tribunal found.
Police and paramedics at the scene of the attack in Finsbury Park, north London. Credit:James Gourley/Australscope He said given the methodology of the attack, and the context of recent similar attacks, the Counter Terrorism Command was called out to lead the investigation. At this stage the attacker appeared to have been acting alone, and there was nothing found in his van that posed a risk to the public, Mr Basu said. Muslims pray at Finsbury Park, where a vehicle struck pedestrians. Credit:PA British Prime Minister Theresa May called a meeting of Cobra, the government's crisis response committee, for Monday morning at 10 Downing Street.

Britain's Muslim Council called for "real action" in response to the attack, which it said was the "most violent manifestation" of a recent wave of hate crimes and Islamophobia. Finsbury Park mosque: Muslims had been leaving after Ramadan prayers when the van struck in the middle of the night. Credit:AAP Just after midnight in Finsbury Park, a small group of people were tending to an old man who had collapsed by the side of the road, just outside Muslim Welfare House, a local community centre. Witness Abdulrahman Saleh al-Amoudi told Buzzfeed that he and a group of people had been trying to help the old man. According to some reports he had suffered a heart attack and was being given CPR. A confrontation near a police cordon at Finsbury Park. The "revenge attack" rhetoric surrounding the incident mirrors that of Osama bin Laden. Credit:AAP

A white van then mounted the pavement at speed and ploughed into the group, all from the local Muslim community. "It wasn't an accident - within seconds he took all the people," Mr Amoudi said. A police forensics officer examines the van believed to have been used in the attack. Credit:Getty Images A man then jumped out of the van, and was chased down and restrained by a group of people. "He was screaming 'I'm going to kill all Muslims ... I want to kill you all'," Amoudi said. "He was throwing punches all over. We managed to get him on the [ground] then he was saying 'oh kill me, kill me'. I said 'we're not going to kill you, why did you do that?'. He didn't say anything."

Another witness said people rushed out from the local mosque to the scene, and some were "very angry at the time, they wanted to string him up, [but] others were saying 'no, wait for the police to arrive, leave him alone'. A lot of people are in shock." Over 60 medics attended the scene, London Ambulance Service said, taking eight patients to three London hospitals. The old man who had been receiving CPR was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said it was too early to be sure whether his death was linked to the attack. Toufik Kacimi, chief executive of Muslim Welfare House, said the local community were horrified, concerned and shocked. "We have worked very hard over decades to build a peaceful and tolerant community here in Finsbury Park and we totally condemn any act of hate that tries to drive our wonderful community apart," he said.

He also appealed for calm, and thanked Welfare House's imam Mohammed Mahmoud, "whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life". Mrs May said she was "appalled by the terrible incident". London mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the "horrific terrorist attack  [which was] clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan. "While this appears to be an attack on a particular community  it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect."

He called on Londoners to remain calm but vigilant, saying "terrorism is terrorism, whether it is Islamist-inspired or inspired by others". Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, said "over the past weeks and months, Muslims have endured many incidents of Islamophobia, and this is the most violent manifestation to date". "We expect the authorities to increase security outside mosques as a matter of urgency." Loading
Police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park, north London, in which a van ploughed into a group of people. Credit:James Gourley/REX/Shutterstock Attack during Ramadan The Muslim Council of Britain said the van hit people outside Finsbury Park Tube station as they were leaving the Finsbury Park Mosque, one of Britain's largest. The moments after a van ploughed into pedestrians at Finsbury Park. Credit:James Gourley/Australscope The attack comes during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when people attend prayers at night.

Police said they were called just after 12.20am to reports of a collision on the busy Seven Sisters Road, which runs through the Finsbury Park area of the city. Police and ambulance crews on the scene at Finsbury Park. Credit:James Gourley/Australscope They said there were a number of casualties and one person had been arrested. A man was shown on video being held by police behind a police vehicle. "I'm going to kill all Muslims"

A witness told BuzzFeed News that the suspect screamed: "I'm going to kill all Muslims" before he was tackled to the floor. Abdulrahman Saleh Alamoudi said he was among a group of people helping an elderly worshipper who had fallen down, perhaps because of the heat, when the van swerved towards them. "This big van just came and went all over us," he said. "I think at least eight or 10 people got injured. Luckily I managed to escape. And then the guy came out of his van and I got him. "He was screaming, he was saying, 'I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims.' He was throwing punches.

"Then we managed to get him on the floor. Then he was saying, 'Kill me, kill me.' "I said, 'We are not going to kill you. Why did you do that?' "He wouldn't say anything." Mr Salah Alamoudi said eight people were hit and up to three of them were in a "life-threatening" condition. He said that they had to hold the suspect on the ground for up to half an hour before police arrived.

"The guy, I had to keep him at least half an hour. He was a strong guy. A big man," he said. "It was heartbreaking. It wasn't an accident." Witness Abdikadar Warfa told the London Telegraph that bystanders tried to lift the van off an injured man while others apprehended the driver. "I saw a man underneath the van. He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van. I was busy with a man who tried to escape.

"My friend said he said some words, but I didn't hear it. "They [the people who were hit] were mostly young. They are very bad. "I tried to stop him [the suspect]. Some people were hitting him but I said stop him and keep him until the police came. "He was trying to run away but people overpowered him. He was fighting to run away." A woman who lives opposite the scene told the BBC: "From the window, I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching, a lot of chaos outside.

"Everybody was shouting: 'A van's hit people, a van's hit people.'



"There was this white van stopped outside Finsbury Park Mosque that seemed to have hit people who were coming out after prayers had finished. "I didn't see the attacker himself, although he seems to have been arrested, but I did see the van." Potential terrorist attack: May The Prime Minister said: "Police have confirmed this is being treated as a potential terrorist attack. "I will chair an emergency meeting later this morning.

"All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene." Earlier, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn expressed his shock at what had happened, writing on Twitter: "I'm totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight. "I've been in touch with the mosques, police and Islington council regarding the incident. My thoughts are with those and the community affected by this awful event." London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged people to "remain calm and vigilant". "We don't yet know the full details, but this was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan," he said.

"While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge, it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect. "The situation is still unfolding and I urge all Londoners to remain calm and vigilant. "The Met have deployed extra police to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan." Unconfirmed stabbing



A man leapt out of the van and stabbed at least one person, the Evening Standard newspaper said, citing witnesses. That report could not be confirmed and police said that, at this stage there were no reports of any persons having suffered any knife injuries.

One witness told CNN it was clear that the attacker at Finsbury Park had targeted Muslims. "He tried to kill a lot of people so obviously it's a terrorist attack. He targeted Muslims this time," the witness, identified only as Rayan, said. Other witnesses told Sky television that the van had hit at least 10 people. Witnesses reported seeing the hire van accelerate and veer off the road into a group of pedestrians standing near the Finsbury Park Mosque. Screams were heard as the van ploughed into the crowd who were understood to have just finished a prayer meeting.

"Horrible to watch police officers doing cardiac massage at people on the floor, desperately trying to save them. I just hope they did," witness Cynthia Vanzella tweeted. Ms Vanzella lives in a flat overlooking the road, describing the scene as "really, really ugly". She told Sky News people often congregate outside the mosque following prayer meetings but gatherings were generally very quiet. She said she was about to go to sleep when she heard shouting outside and went to her window to look at the chaotic scene unfolding. The London Telegraph reported bystanders wrestled the van driver to the ground and pinned him down until police arrived.

London Ambulance Service deputy director of operations Kevin Bate released a statement saying the most seriously injured people were the first to be taken to hospital. The Australian government's travel advisory service Smart Traveller has warned Australians to avoid the area, which remains sealed off and under police guard. Tensions high The incident comes just two weeks after a terrorist attack involving a hire van near London Bridge which killed eight people including two Australians. Tensions have been running high in Britain following recent deadly attacks in London and Manchester.

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Bamako: At least two people were killed when gunmen stormed at a luxury resort popular with Western expatriates outside Mali's capital Bamako on Sunday.

Gunmen stormed Le Campement Kangaba near Dougourakoro, a resort foreign residents often visit for weekend breaks.

"At first we thought they were armed bandits but we know how armed bandits operate, they don't hold territory, so now we think it is a terrorist attack," Malian Security Minister Salif Traore told journalists outside the entrance to the resort, part of which was on fire, late on Sunday.

Malian security forces, United Nations peacekeeping mission vehicles and French military armoured vehicles were surrounding the resort. A helicopter was circling overhead.
Eight people were taken to hospital, while two were treated at the scene.

One man has died and 10 injured, some seriously, after a van was used to drive into people at Finsbury Park in north London.

One man died at the scene, though it was too early to say if he had died as a result of the attack, police said.

The van driver, 48, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and will be subject to a mental health assessment.

There are no other suspects, despite reports witness reports there were three men in the van, police said.

Police have confirmed the attack is being treated as a terrorist attack. The investigation is being undertaken by the police's counter-terrorism command.

All victims were Muslims.
An armed man was killed in Paris on Monday afternoon after he rammed a car into a police convoy on the Champs-Elysees, French authorities said.

A convoy of vehicles belonging to the gendarmerie, one of France's police forces, was travelling on the Champs-Elysees about 3.40pm when a man drove up in a Renault Megane and struck the lead vehicle in the convoy, said Johanna Primevert, a spokeswoman for the Paris police prefecture. The car caught on fire, and orange smoke could be seen billowing from the vehicle.

"It looks like this was a deliberate act," Interior Ministry spokesman Pierre-Henry Brandet told reporters at the scene.

The man, who was known to French security services, died in the incident, officials said. No bystanders were injured.
Washington: A US strike aircraft shot down a Syrian government fighter jet on Sunday shortly after the Syrians bombed US-backed fighters in northern Syria, the Pentagon said in a statement.

The Pentagon said the downing of the aircraft came hours after Syrian loyalist forces attacked US-backed fighters, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), near Tabqa, south-west of Raqqa.

It was the first time a US jet has shot down a manned hostile aircraft in more than a decade, and signalled the United States' sharply intensifying role in Syria's war.

The incident is the fourth time within a month that the US military has attacked pro-Syrian government forces.
City officials say they need the money. That doesn't make it legal. Still, it looks like they're about to get away with it.

If you don't like illegal taxes, you can just fry in the dark.

That seems to be the message from Los Angeles city officials to Department of Water and Power customers who are tired of being overcharged for the electricity that keeps the lights on and the air conditioners running.

The city has reached a settlement in the lawsuit over the DWP's annual transfer of so-called "surplus" funds to the city treasury. If a judge can be persuaded to approve the settlement, the practice of overcharging DWP customers for electricity may be enshrined permanently as a way to raise tax revenue for the usual expenses of government, like the cost of pay raises for city workers.

As if electricity rates were not high enough in California  30 percent above the national average  they're 8 percent higher than they need to be in Los Angeles because the DWP transfers 8 percent of the gross revenue from electricity sales, every year, to the city treasury.

That's in addition to the utility tax.

The Los Angeles charter says the city-owned utility may transfer surplus cash to the general fund, but the DWP doesn't have any surplus cash. It's raising rates every year.

City officials say they need the money. That doesn't make it legal. Still, it looks like they're about to get away with it.

The settlement, which city officials have discussed with reporters but not released publicly, would allow the transfer of DWP funds to continue, only slightly reducing the amount that ratepayers are overcharged. The utility would be required to knock 8 percent off its latest rate increase. So you'll only have to pay 92 percent of the scheduled rate hikes for electricity. Feel better?

According to Mayor Eric Garcetti's newly signed budget, the city will still get $242.5 million of transferred revenue from overcharged DWP ratepayers. In 2015, it was $265.5 million.

Reportedly, city officials promised to cap the transfer at its current level of 8 percent of the gross revenue from electricity sales, saying they will not seek to increase the percentage. That's what passes for a concession to the ratepayers in this settlement.

The lawsuit began in 2015 when Patrick Eck, a resident of West Hills, filed a complaint on behalf of all LADWP customers seeking a "refund of excess electric utility fees collected by the city... an order declaring the tax on electric utility customers illegal," and a permanent ban on collecting the tax in the future unless the city obtains voter approval.

He argued that the tax is illegal under Proposition 26, the "Stop Hidden Taxes Initiative," which was passed in 2010 to stop cities from charging more for a service than the cost of providing it. Voters had already passed Proposition 218, the "Right to Vote on Taxes Act," in 1996. It says local taxes, fees and assessments must be approved by voters with only three exceptions: water service, trash service and sewer service.

These state constitutional amendments expressed the will of the voters very clearly: Taxes are to be put on the ballot for approval. Yet politicians continue to look for new ways to extract money from your wallet without the bother of asking you first.

Today the state Assembly Committee on Local Government is scheduled to hold a hearing on Senate Bill 231, which would change the definition of "sewer" to include stormwater.

With that one little change, the cost of constructing and operating billion-dollar stormwater projects could be added to property tax bills without voter approval, because "sewer" is one of the three exceptions under Proposition 218.

Headquarters of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power

How much would it cost? We could see hundreds of dollars in new charges added to property tax bills every year, maybe more. The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments, a coalition of 33 cities, estimated that the cost of stormwater projects could add $1,400 to a homeowner's annual tax bill.

If you'd like to call your representative in the Assembly about SB 231, this would be a good day to do it. You can find their names and contact information online at findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov.

And if you'd like to call Mayor Garcetti about the DWP settlement, the phone number is 213-978-0600. You can also send an email to [email protected], or mail a letter to 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Susan Shelley is a columnist and member of the Editorial Board for the Southern California News Group. Reach her at [email protected], or follow her on Twitter: @Susan_Shelley.
ayondo launches Bitcoin trading

Posted by Publisher Internet

Bitcoin trading is now available to all investors on TradeHub

ayondo adds digital currency to its Social Trading offering

Financial technology group ayondo has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of Bitcoin trading, allowing its clients easy access to the price movement of Bitcoin without the need to open up an e-wallet to purchase bitcoin in the internet.

Bitcoin is a type of digital currency in which encryption techniques are used to regulate the generation of units of currency and verify the transfer of funds, operating independently of a central bank.

The digital currency has experienced rapid growth recently and can now be traded at ayondo via spread betting/CFD trading. Bitcoin is also available to signal providers on the ayondo Social Trading platform WeTrade.

Commenting on the launch, Raza Perez, Chief Product Officer ayondo says: The recent development of Bitcoin and the associated interest in Bitcoin is immense. In times of low volatility at the financial markets, the high variation in price offers an excellent trading opportunity. With the launch of Bitcoin we follow the demand of our clients and further strengthen our product range.

Risk Warning

Trade execution services are provided exclusively by ayondo markets Limited. Spread Betting and CFDs are high risk investments. Your capital is at risk. Spread Betting and CFDs are not suitable for all investors and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved and, if necessary, obtain independent financial advice to ensure that these products fit your investment objectives.

ayondo markets Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under register number 03148972. ayondo markets Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FCA Register number 184333.

Social trading services are provided exclusively by ayondo GmbH.

ayondo GmbH is a tied agent of DonauCapital Wertpapier AG and therefore registered in the intermediaries register of the BaFin.

ayondo is a global Financial Technology group with subsidiaries authorised and regulated in the UK (FCA) and Germany (BaFin), offering innovative trading and investment solutions for retail and institutional customers. ayondo specialises in Social Trading, with a sophisticated online trading platform and a leading Social Trading platform. Social Trading allows retail investors to automatically copy the trades of Top Traders. In recent years, ayondo has won several accolades, including Europes leading Financial Technology providers (FinTech 50). Other honours include the International Financial Award Best Social Trading Platform and Broker of the Year.
Igneous Wins 2017 Red Herring Top 100 North America Award

SEATTLE, WA  (Marketwired)  06/19/17  Igneous Systems, which designed the industrys first secondary storage for massive file systems, has won a Red Herring Top 100 North America 2017 award. The awards recognize the continents most exciting and innovative private technology companies.

Igneous also won the award in 2016. Red Herrings editorial board chooses the winners from thousands of entrants based on financial performance, innovation, business strategy and market penetration.

Igneous is honored to be recognized two years in a row by Red Herring for our innovation in secondary storage, said Igneous CEO Kiran Bhageshpur. Were excited to offer enterprises a consolidated backup and archive solution that is significantly more simple and cost-effective than legacy storage. Being part of such an esteemed group of cutting-edge companies reinforces our commitment to our mission.

Past Red Herring Top 100 winners have included Alibaba, Google, Kakao, Skype, Spotify, Twitter and YouTube. Red Herring Chairman Alex Vieux called this years Top 100 winners among our most intriguing yet.

What has excited me most is to see so many people forging niches in high-tech and cutting edge sectors, Vieux said. Some of the technical wizardry and first-rate business models showcased here at the conference has been fantastic to learn about. We believe Igneous Systems embodies the drive, skill and passion on which tech thrives. Igneous should be proud of its achievement  the competition was incredibly strong.

Igneous Systems hybrid cloud services  Igneous Storage, Igneous Backup and Igneous Archive  offer the best of both worlds for enterprises: the convenience of keeping data in their datacenters behind their firewalls, and the option of tiering to public cloud.

Igneous Systems is a Seattle-based, venture-backed company that designed the industrys first secondary storage to effortlessly handle massive file systems. The company holds 12 patents in the United States. For more information, visit . Follow us on Twitter and on LinkedIn at .
Sumo Logic Launches Illuminate User Conference to Showcase the Power of Machine Data Analytics for Digital Transformation

REDWOOD CITY, CA  (Marketwired)  06/19/17 

Inaugural Conference Brings Together Experts to Share Best Practices for Utilizing Continuous Intelligence for Modern Application Innovation

LinkedIn Co-Founder and VC Reid Hoffman will be the Featured Keynote Speaker; Amazon Web Services, Okta, JFrog and MongoDB Among First to Sign up as Sponsors

, the leading cloud-native, machine data analytics platform that delivers continuous intelligence, today announced its first-ever user conference, which will bring together the top customers, experts and luminaries to share best practices and hands-on training for building, running and securing modern applications. The event will take place Sept. 12-13, 2017, at the in Burlingame, Calif.

Over 1,500 companies and 30,000 users count on Sumo Logic to deliver the continuous intelligence they need to build, run and secure modern applications and accelerate digital business transformation. Illuminate is a two-day conference where Sumo Logic users and ecosystem partners will share best practices and their stories of transformation. The agenda will include hands-on training, certification courses, technical sessions and real-world case studies from peers and partners to showcase how users can get the most out of the Sumo Logic platform.

Every business is either making the shift to digital or falling behind. Cloud computing, new organizational models and data services such as Sumo Logic are helping those who want to transform quickly and serve their customers in new ways. And most are looking to learn from early adopters, which is why Sumo Logic is orchestrating the Illuminate conference, said Dean Thomas, vice president of customer success at Sumo Logic. Illuminate is the place where the innovators, the best and brightest, the intelligence brokers of the future, come to share lessons learned and best practices for leveraging machine data in the digital era.

Illuminate will showcase Sumo Logic partners to demonstrate the power of joint integrations and include sponsors such as , , , and , who, along with Sumo Logic, provide the technologies redefining the modern application and infrastructure stack for digital transformation. These partners, in addition to others who form the ecosystem for modern applications and security in the digital era, will present solutions and integrations with Sumo Logic.

Sumo Logic is now accepting submissions for customer presentations to highlight real-world strategies and stories about how machine data analytics is providing business value. Speaker topics include (but are not limited to):

The Journey to Cloud-First

Operating Modern Apps

Leveraging Machine Data to Improve Security

New Organizational Models: DevOps and DevSecOps

Containers & Microservices

Machine Learning

The call for speakers closes July 22. For more details on submitting a speaking proposal, please visit: .

When: Sept. 12-13, 2017

Where: , Burlingame, Calif.

Closes July 22

Registration and agenda can be found on the Illuminate 2017

Follow Illuminate on social media using hashtag #IlluminateSumoCon

Sumo Logic is a secure, cloud-native, machine data analytics service, delivering real-time, continuous intelligence from structured, semi-structured and unstructured data across the entire application lifecycle and stack. More than 1,500 customers around the globe rely on Sumo Logic for the analytics and insights to build, run and secure their modern applications and cloud infrastructures. With Sumo Logic, customers gain a multi-tenant, service-model advantage to accelerate their shift to continuous innovation, increasing competitive advantage, business value and growth.

Founded in 2010, Sumo Logic is a privately held company based in Redwood City, CA and is backed by Accel Partners, DFJ, Greylock Partners, IVP, Sequoia Capital and Sutter Hill Ventures. For more information, visit .

Melissa Liton

Sumo Logic

(650) 814-3882

Scott Lechner

Kulesa Faul for Sumo Logic

(530) 521-3095
DaoCloud Announces Strategic Partnership to Sell Leading-Edge Portworx Container Data Services Technology in China

LOS ALTOS, CA  (Marketwired)  06/19/17  , the leading provider of container data services for DevOps, today announced its first international strategic partnership with DaoCloud, a top cloud-native technology vendor focused on guiding enterprises through digital transformations. Through an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement, DaoCloud is partnering with Portworx to offer its leading-edge container data services technology to the China market for the first time. DaoCloud will package Portworx as part of DCE-X, its cloud-based platform-as-a-service offering for enterprise customers. DaoCloud will translate the Portworx GUI and documentation to Chinese, and promote and sell Portworx nationwide. Portworx will also partner with DaoCloud to establish the Portworx Shanghai Support Center, which will work with Portworxs U.S. office to provide 24/7 support for global customers.

DaoClouds 100,000+ users are among the most innovative in China, and include early adopters of container technology. However, these users face numerous challenges around persistent storage as they take containers from dev/test into production, including persistence, high availability, data automation, support for multiple data stores, infrastructure, and security.

Portworx provides a solution to these challenges  acting as a single data management layer for any stateful containerized application with any scheduler on any infrastructure. Portworx also offers industry-first, enterprise-class features such as persistence, encryption, multi-cloud replication, cloud-agnostic snapshots, and global namespace. Through DaoCloud, Portworx is now signed with several major Chinese customers including global 2000 companies such as SAIC Motors and Dongfeng Motors.

As Chinese enterprises advance their digital transformations, they have a critical need for DevOps and microservices-focused storage solutions in their cloud-native datacenters, said Qiyan Chen, co-founder and CEO of DaoCloud. The strategic partnership between DaoCloud and Portworx is the ideal solution for these cutting-edge customers.

DaoClouds digital transformation services leverage innovative technologies, products, solutions, and consulting practices, covering the entire application lifecycle from development to production in public, private, and hybrid environments.

DaoCloud is one of the leading platform-as-a-service providers in China, and were pleased that Portworx PX-Enterprise is a critical part of DaoClouds DCE-X stack, enabling stateful workloads as DaoCloud leads Chinese enterprises through digital transformation, said Murli Thirumale, co-founder and CEO of Portworx. The Chinese DevOps market is growing at a rapid pace, and we look forward to working with DaoCloud to help solve container challenges and advance container adoption and innovation.

DaoCloud has been building a leading ecosystem in China with communities and partners. It has actively organized and sponsored local meetups and events around Docker, and in 2016 DaoCloud and Lenovo established the strategic partnership in China. DaoCloud is headquartered in Yangpu District, Shanghai City, China, and also has branch offices in Beijing, Wuhan, and Shenzhen covering the northern, middle, and southern regions of China respectively. DaoCloud plans to expand its ecosystem with top partners around the world.

Portworx is the solution for stateful containers, designed for DevOps. With Portworx, users can manage any database or stateful service on any infrastructure using any container scheduler, including Kubernetes, Mesosphere DC/OS, and Docker Swarm. Portworx solves the five most common problems DevOps teams encounter when running containerized databases and other stateful services in production: persistence, high availability, data automation, support for multiple data stores and infrastructure, and security. Portworx technology is ideally suited for solution verticals such as databases, messaging queues, continuous integration and continuous deployment (CICD), big data, and content management. Customers include TGen, GE Digital, Lufthansa Systems and other Fortune 1000s.

Portworx Website:

Portworx Blog:

Follow Portworx on Twitter:

Meghan Brown

10Fold

415-800-5389
Tempered Networks Enables Enterprises to Achieve PCI DSS Compliance Standards with Identity-Based PCI Micro-segmentation

SEATTLE, WA  (Marketwired)  06/19/17  today announced that the new release of its Identity-Defined Networking (IDN) platform provides a unified PCI security architecture for enterprise and government organizations. The removes PCI systems and assets from scope through cloaking, micro-perimeter segmentation, machine authentication and authorization, and end-to-end encryption. These, and other controls, support (PCI DSS) compliance requirements. The company also announced that it has partnered with , a qualified security assessor, to test and validate Tempered Networks identity-based PCI micro-segmentation capabilities. A comprehensive report from Coalfire will be published by July 2017.

A PCI compliant environment does not mean your network and assets are immune from attack, especially east-west lateral movement, which is why we continue to witness so many hacks of PCI compliant networks, said Erik Giesa, VP of Products at Tempered Networks. Hacks against healthcare organizations alone have increased by 63% in 2016, according to a recent . These organizations are still relying on IP address-defined policies that are subject to spoofing. Instead, our approach unifies PCI compliance with security, giving customers the best of both worlds. By using cryptographic machine identities for enforcement, local and wide area micro-segmentation easily removes systems from PCI scope, while cloaking PCI segments from bad actors. This capability is also ideal for achieving HIPAA and NIST Cyber Security Framework (CSF) compliance.

PCI compliance is essential to any organization that processes, stores, and transports payment card data. PCI DSS has strict guidelines that must be satisfied before any systems can be deployed. Tempered Networks IDN platform helps organizations meet these stringent requirements through local and wide-area PCI micro-segmentation, providing a level of isolation and containment previously unattainable. The IDN platform enables organizations to fulfill specific PCI requirements in the following ways.

PCI-DSS requirements have been written with traditional networking and security technologies in mind. Because firewalls, VPNs, and other access control technologies base their segmentation policies on spoofable IP addresses and VLANs which can be traversed, traditional segmentation is not only permeable but error-prone. With Tempered Networks IDN software, access controls and policy enforcement are based on a machines provable cryptographic identity. Every PCI machine authenticates and authorizes to other authorized machines before data transport can be established based on a machine whitelist. The machines then encrypt all data in motion creating an unbreakable local as well as wide-area network overlay.

With new Smart Device Group capability, administrators can easily create pre-defined group policies for specific IDN PCI overlays. Only machine authenticated and authorized hosts can communicate within an encrypted IDN overlay. Using Smart Device Groups, automatically adding PCI resources to specific segments is simple, consistent, and predictable. The IDN solutions centralized orchestration engine, The Conductor, and its secure RESTful API makes PCI orchestration seamless and easy.

New PCI reporting capabilities created by the IDN solution help administrators ensure they have the proper controls and policies in place. To address policy guidelines for chain-of-custody requirements, the IDN solution ensures that only authorized administrative staff can access audit logs, which can be downloaded on demand by PCI auditors in an automated fashion.

Within the IDN fabric, the security and networking perimeter can easily be moved from the network edge to the PCI machines or hosts, creating hardened yet flexible secure micro-perimeterswithout modifying existing infrastructure. Requirements for securing data-in-motion are addressed, since all whitelisted devices and associated traffic are automatically secured within PCI micro-segments using machine-to-machine AES-256 encryption. This capability supports PCI DSS v3.2 requirements across the LAN and WAN.

The IDN solution was designed with a manageability-first mindset, making ease-of-use through its intuitive orchestration engine a top priority. Because of this design principle, meeting PCI audit requirements is much simpler for IT personnel. Specifically, secure transport of logs, auditability of access to the system, traffic filtering, and audit reporting of system configuration changes, is easy using The Conductor and its new PCI reporting capabilities. Customers can reduce IT personnel time spent on PCI audits by 60 percent, on average.

With Marcums PCI practice, we pride ourselves on not only helping customers achieve PCI compliance, but also focus on ways to improve their overall security posture while saving time and money in the process, said Ted Carlson, President, . Thats why weve partnered with Tempered Networks and were excited about their new PCI compliance support. Not only does Tempered dramatically improve an organizations security posture with unique capabilities like wide area micro-segmentation and cloaking, but the simplicity of their solution can reduce PCI personnel time by as much as 62 percent.

Tempered Networks

New release of  VP of Products

Identity-based

The new release of Tempered Networks IDN platform is available now. PCI enforcement and reporting are included in the platform at no additional cost. The Coalfire Systems lab validation report will be available by Q2 2017. Please contact your preferred reseller for more information or contact .

is the pioneer of Identity-Defined Networking (IDN), driving a new identity paradigm that basis trust on the host identity itself, not a spoofable IP address. Our IDN architecture unifies networking and security to overcome todays complex and inherently vulnerable networks. We provide the industrys most extensible networking overlay fabric, with automated policy-based orchestration, making it simple to instantly connect or disconnect any IP resource with another, located anywhere in the world  on-premises, virtual or cloud. With IDN, local and wide-area micro-segmentation is now achievable and simple. It leverages your existing infrastructure, while eliminating future expenses on unecessary point networking and security products. For more information, visit .

You can also follow us on Twitter or visit us on for more information about Tempered Networks and our technology.

Forward-looking statements. Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. Such statements include, for example, statements regarding the Companys or managements beliefs, expectations, estimations, plans, projections and similar statements. Any such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Companys actual results and performance, or industry results to be materially different from any results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and there can be no assurance that the results and events contemplated by such forward-looking statements will, in fact, occur. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein.
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Opener brings an early escape for Notre Dame men's basketball

It's a big season of expectations for a veteran Notre Dame team - first up, a second chance at Radford in home opener
House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin uses charts and graphs to make his case for the GOP's plan to replace the Affordable Care Act during a news conference March 9 on Capitol Hill.
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Richard Cartwright, Partner, Saffery Champness, and a member of the firms Landed Estates and Rural Business Group says:

Whilst the case in question, John Carlisle Allen, centred on a Conacre arrangement in Northern Ireland, it still has significance elsewhere in the UK. In this case the grass was grown by Mr Allen, but grazed by the stock of a Mr Crooks. Conditions included Mr Allens continued use of the ground for lairage when he might require it, as well as maintaining drainage and fencing, supplying fertiliser and water, and having weeds and hedges cut by a contractor.

The arrangement, for a licence fee rather than a rent, ran from 17 March to 1 November with the stock removed in the winter to prevent poaching of the ground. A number of other conditions were also attached to Mr Crooks use of the land.

Allen was seen by the Tribunal to be trading as he managed the land, supplying fertiliser, deciding when stock could be on the ground, and ensuring that weeds were cut. Had Mr Crooks been allowed to spread his own fertiliser when he wished then the landowner would not have been seen as growing a grass crop.
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GREENWICH  Friends and acquaintances of a Greenwich High School junior struck and killed by a Metro-North train near the Cos Cob station over the weekend expressed shock and sadness about his death when they returned to school on Monday.

The 17-year-old was identified as Nicolas Del Priore, according to an email sent out to the high school community from Greenwich High School Headmaster Chris Winters.

Law-enforcement authorities at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority are handling the probe into the fatal collision, which was continuing Monday.

Outside Greenwich High School on Monday, classmates described the victim as a good-hearted, creative and funny young man.

Its crazy, said a friend, Hayden Sherr, 16.

He was liked by everybody.

Wickedly funny, and a very caring individual, he said.

Zahir Mahea, 16, did volunteer work with the student.

He volunteered to help people  the homeless, kids who werent in a good position, Mahea said.

The death of the high school student came as a blow to the school community, Mahea said. I just saw him on Friday, he said. Im kind of shocked. It took us all by surprise.

Greenwich Public Schools, Greenwich Police and Metro-North also withheld the identity of the student, though the name was apparent to the high-school community.

A woman at the students house in Cos Cob declined comment Monday afternoon.

A small memorial was created at the train station in memory of the young man on Monday.

The school district released the following statement:

We were saddened to learn yesterday of the untimely death of one of our Greenwich High School students from the Class of 2018, said Sal Corda, interim superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools. Headmaster Chris Winters convened the GHS crisis team at the high school on Sunday to coordinate support for the family and our students and staff.

Winters said Greenwich High is grieving the tragic loss.

Our hearts go out to the students family and friends, said Winters on Monday. We notified students and parents of this tragedy on Sunday afternoon, and advised them that our mental health staff will be available all day today to assist any student or family that may need support. Students were also advised that if they feel unable to take a final exam to meet with his/her guidance counselor to discuss options. Decisions about deferring final exams will be handled on a case-by-case basis."

T he teen was struck by a northbound train that departed Grand Central Terminal at 10:45 p.m., according to MTA Police.

Greenwich police, firefighters and EMS responded to the incident at 12:05 a.m., according to Lt. David Nemecek, a spokesman for the Greenwich Police Department.

Metro-North spokesman Aaron Donovan said Monday the MTA Police did not have a preliminary conclusion why the youth was on the tracks at that hour.

Such fatal encounters have varied in frequency over the years on Metro-Norths territory.

Last month, Dennis Ryan Jr., 23 of Branford, was struck and killed by an Acela train in Branford around 2:30 the afternoon of May 16 near North Harbor and Bridge streets along the tracks.

That strike was out of Metro-North territory on Shore Line East, which is operated by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

A 28-year-old Stamford woman, Tamar A. Louis, was struck and killed by a New Haven express train at Cos Cob station on Aug. 7, 2015, when she jumped down to retrieve a handbag that had fallen onto the tracks. Investigators later concluded that Louis dropped her purse onto the tracks before jumping onto the rails into the path of the train. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner later ruled her death a suicide.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com
G iven that there are just over 24 hours left until this years Glastonbury revellers pile into Pilton, primed to down cans of Thatchers Gold and dance till dawn at the Stone Circle, the likelihood of seeing shocks of pink hair is markedly higher than normal.

But while its part and parcel of the Worthy Farm experience to turn your hair fuchsia, dip your face in glitter and not wash for a week, its not just the perimeters of the Pyramid Stage that have become a safe space for experimentation.

Here in the capital, candyfloss locks have transitioned from being a flash-in-the-pan trend to the new norm. There are currently 3.5 million posts of #pinkhair on Instagram and a further 10,000 posts for #millennialpink. But the trend is no longer just the preserve of bright young twentysomethings looking to turn the princess Snapchat filter into a reality.

Increasingly, it seems that blush is staking its claim as an unofficial new hair colour category  distancing itself from the rebellious ranks of turquoise, violet and emerald and moving into the accepted circle of blondes and brunettes.

According to the UKs largest survey on modern hair colour habits conducted by LOreal Professionnel, eight out of 10 women in London said they would be more likely to experiment with the pink hair trend over any other alt colour. As a result, several salons have seen a spike in clients swapping their usual summer blonde for blush.

Were seeing a huge increase in the number of clients wanting to go pink for the summer, says Jack Howard, celebrity hair colourist based at Chelseas Paul Edmonds salon. Its incredibly inclusive for all ages, which is why its so popular. As the man credited with bringing balayage to the UK, this year Howard is backing pastelage  an evolution of the technique which provides a soft, wearable and low-commitment way to dabble in different hues  which he creates using LOreal Professionnels newly launched #colourfulhair range.

LOreal Professionnel #colourfulhair dye

Pastelage can be achieved using any hue from baby blue to pistachio, though the brand notes that the Pink Sorbet shade has proved the most popular by far, with salons stocking up on this more than all the others.

Josh Wood, global creative director of Redken, is also persuaded by the power of pink. Its the new caramel, he says. There are so many different shades of pink, from soft shell all the way through to Yves Saint Laurent fuchsia. Woods current favourite is the polished, pinky orange tint of Redkens City Beats Chelsea Coral. The reason for pinks popularity, he thinks, is down to its universal appeal. In general, most skin tones can suit a shade of pink, he adds. Thats why were seeing so much of it  its flattering and lets you be more playful with colour. So prolific are the requests for a pink rinse that Woods atelier in Holland Park has several pots of pink ready mixed so we can add a glaze to anyone who fancies a pink hue.

Redken City Beats colour

Headmasters salons have also noticed a rise in women opting for a pink wash on a whim. Because the colour isnt permanent, you can choose to have it just for an event or the weekend, says Siobhan Jones, the brands colour director. Pink is the most delicate out of all the shades too, so it doesnt feel as drastic. Plus its easy to do spur of the moment; clients often say why not?.

9 best hair styling gadgets 1 /13 9 best hair styling gadgets Take a look at our favourite hair styling gadgets... Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer At the cutting edge of new technology is the Dyson hair dryer. Although it might look like the nose has been chopped off, Dyson have redesigned the standard dryer so that the motor is in handle, helping to rebalance the weight. It has different speed and heat settings and uses a microprocessor to regulate the temperature, thus reducing heat damage. The diffuser attachments are magnetic and the negative ions help to reduce static. If you want a dryer that will minimize the damage done to your precious hair, this is the one for you. 299, John Lewis,Buy it now GHD IV Hair Styler God bless the GHDs. Always there on hand to fix a bad hair day, you can rely on these to deliver the style you want. Particularly good for those who are always rushing around in the mornings, the advanced ceramic technology means these heat up ultra-quickly. Always worrying that youve left the straighteners on and have accidentally burned your house down? Dont sweat it: these ones come with a handy sleep mode, meaning theyll turn themselves off after 30 minutes of inactivity. 99, John Lewis, Buy it now BaByliss Big Hair Rotating Styler For an all-round styler, this BaByliss device will add volume and shine to your hair. It dries and moulds simultaneously and the rotating brush head allows for multi-directional styling. The brush also has soft bristles to allow for gentle, tangle free brushing. 39.99, Amazon, Buy it now Remington Wet 2 Straight Another great tool when youre on the go: this will take your hair from wet to straight in one step, cutting out the tedious drying part of your routine. The plates are longer too, meaning that you are less likely to snag your hair as you straighten it. 39.94, Amazon, Buy it now BaByliss Thermo-Ceramic Rollers For the large, tumbling curls that are a big hair trend for Autumn/Winter 16, you need to use good old fashioned rollers. Although they may seem cumbersome and time consuming, they deliver the best results. These rollers are ceramic, which will reduce the styling time hugely. There are also three different roller sizes, meaning your curls will look more natural than beauty queen. 24, Amazon,Buy it now Instyler Tulip Curler If youve ever struggled to create the perfect curl with a straightener or tong, this is the tool for you. You simply have to secure your hair inside the tulip and it does all the hard work for you. With different settings for waves and curls, three heat settings and anti-tangle technology, all you need to worry about is the size of curls youre after. 66.36, QVC, Buy it now TRESemme Power Dryer If youre on a budget, this is one of the best cheap and cheerful hairdryers you can find. It has a high power capability of 2200 watts and also comes with ceramic and ionic technology to avoid the dreaded frizz. 12, Amazon, Buy it now Andrew Barton Designer Waves Professional Waver Waves are another hot look this season and with the Andrew Barton Waver, you can get the look you want without the torture of plaiting your hair and having to sleep in it. It comes with three heat settings and can also be used as a crimper for when youre feeling the 80s vibe. 29.99, Argos, Buy it now BaByliss Diamond Straightener For a decent pair of straighteners on a relatively modest budget, you cant go wrong with the BaByliss Diamonds. These come with a curved barrel, meaning you can straighten or curl your hair as you wish. They almost match the GHDs in quality and for less than half the price, theyre a must-have tool. 39.99, Amazon, Buy it now

Rose Gold  a blush blonde with a glossy metallic shine  is also proving to be one of the most popular ways to embrace pink without going too My Little Pony.

Google Internal Search Data reveals that rose gold hair is currently one of the most searched-for hair colours on the internet, with 121k posts for the hashtag on Instagram. Amy Fish, colourist at Larry Kings salon in South Kensington, has also championed her own muted take on the trend inspired by the soft pink filter often seen on old photos from the Seventies. I call it a Polaroid rinse, she says, so instead of bleaching the whole hair for a bold look, its a more subtle approach which involves lightening a few pieces of the hair for a softer pink.

But while low-key washes are the go-to for those who want pink hair on Friday night, but not their Monday morning boardroom meeting, other pink converts are more concerned with whether their hair should match their new flamingo-pink sofa or their favourite glass of rose.

As Adam Reed  one half of the duo behind Percy & Reeds salons  notes; Ive recently seen clients showing Instagram shots of interiors and objects to their stylist, or bringing their favourite pink items in to the salon for us to match perfectly.

For further proof that millennial pink is not just for millennials, head to Haris. Francesca Dixon, the salons senior creative colourist, says: Pink is a surprisingly popular colour for our older clients, who want to add a dash of fun to naturally grey hair by adding a few pink strands or a pink rinse over the whole head.

Its time to think perennial pink.

@miss_mccarthy
F OUR former Barclays bosses at the centre of a Serious Fraud Office probe face a nervous night ahead while they wait to see if they are going to face criminal charges.

The four  John Varley, Roger Jenkins, Chris Lucas and Bob Diamond (pictured)  masterminded a rescue package for Barclays at the height of the financial crisis in 2008.

Barclays managed to avoid a rescue from the UK government thanks to money raised by Qatar.

The SFO is expected to say tomorrow whether it intends to bring criminal charges over that fund raising, against individuals or the bank itself. At issue are the fees  332 million  that Barclays paid to secure the funds and whether these fees were in effect bribes.

If criminal charges are filed, they would be the first against individual bankers related to the financial crisis.

Barclays revealed in 2012 that it was being investigated by the City watchdog over the Qatar issue. The Financial Conduct Authority later said it would fine the bank 50 million for reckless behaviour.

That fine is on hold while the SFO case continues. The SFO is said to have questioned 44 individuals as it sought to build a case.

Neither side would comment today.
H opes that an outside bidder could come in for the troubled Co-op Bank faded further today when the bank said it is in advanced discussions with existing investors about a rescue deal.

While other banks  Virgin Money or CYBG are thought most likely  remain interested in some parts of the Co-op Bank, there is now no serious chance of a full takeover.

That leaves the US hedge funds that own 80% of the bank, Blue Mountain Capital Management, Cyrus Capital Partners, GoldenTree Asset Management and Silver Point, to structure a rescue. The Co-op Bank said it is in advanced discussions with a group of existing investors with a view to a prospective equity capital raise and liability management exercise.

A further complication is the pension scheme the Bank shares with the wider Co-op Group, a 20% shareholder.

The Co-op Group wants an injection of cash from the Bank into the fund to protect members. A support package of 200 million has been mooted, but is not regarded as sufficient.
T echnology entrepreneurs are predisposed to optimism.

Solving intractable problems is their calling card. Brexit is an unfortunate development for an industry that relies on the free flow of people and ideas, but just because it cannot be cracked with a clever algorithm does not mean it will stand in the way of progress.

Few at the Founders Forum gathering just outside London last week paused to reflect on present political frustrations.

Theirs is a helicopter view or, for those trying to crack exploits in space, even higher.

Nor did past achievements dominate proceedings.

The iPhone and the Android operating system, both a decade old, transformed everything by putting power in consumers pockets but founders prefer to look to future successes.

In their sights are industries still dominated by companies more than 50 years old and therefore ripe for disruption: financial services, education and healthcare.

Next-generation firms have grabbed just a few percentage points of each. Anything seems possible when you spy an AI-powered, self-driving robocar parked on the back lawn at the Grove Hotel in Hertfordshire.

One thing that does hamper brilliant success is age. With the exception of Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, it is hard to found a world-beating company before the age of 26.

If you havent done so by the age of 40, forget it, one entrepreneur told the room.

He had studied the numbers, of which there are many. More data was created in the last two days than between the beginning of mankind and 2003, another chief executive estimated. It gives a glimpse of where the power will lie.

Even while dreaming big, reality bites occasionally. Samir Desai, chief executive of peer-to-peer lender Funding Circle, admitted he had seen a reduction in skilled EU workers particularly in the tech industry coming to London since the Brexit vote.

His firm already has offices in Berlin and Amsterdam so can hire there. Some of the work of the past decade to make London the technology industrys undisputed European hub is clearly being unpicked. Christopher North, the former head of Amazon UK who now runs Shutterfly, an American digital photo firm, was not the only one to preach openness. Meanwhile, Silicon Valley is appraising Paris afresh, especially as the go-ahead President Macron unveiled a fast-track technology visa to attract international talent.

At least the money men are confident. SoftBanks Vision Fund, which has raised $93 billion (73 billion) from backers including Apple, Qualcomm and Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth arm, is basing itself in London as it works out how to spend its riches.

Founders keen to help chief executive Rajeev Misra decide eagerly pressed business cards into his hand.

Already the biggest foreign investor in India and China, you can see SoftBank adding Europe to that list. It paid 24 billion for chip-designer ARM Holdings last summer and is casting its eye over technology ventures that suffer from substantially lower valuations than those in Silicon Valley.

Investors report a region that is blossoming. Berlin and Stockholm have plenty of their own tech stars but one fund chief has surprised himself by sinking cash into thriving ventures in Madrid and Zurich. Just like the idea behind blockchain, start-ups are favouring broad distribution  anywhere will do as long as there is strong coffee and a strong broadband signal.

Where does that leave London? The capital is an attractive place to be, which counts for plenty, plus it has the tripartite lure of law, language and timezone. The graduate talent emerging from UK universities is, so far, undiminished. Seed money to back brilliant ideas is piled high.

One urgent task is fixing broadband connectivity. It is a must if London is to be a tech city of the future. In a similar vein, one entrepreneur told me the biggest challenge the industry faces surfaced long before Brexit: how to build European technology companies of scale?

Creating the next Google appears a fools errand, given that Google  plus Facebook and Amazon  are dominant platforms with the financial firepower to snap up any promising threat. However, the scale problem can be simplified.

As Brexit talks kick off, the Chancellors support of a transition period to avoid a costly cliff edge in two years time suggests sanity is prevailing. And it is surprising how many business leaders think that a flexible visa system to maintain the flow of human capital wont be far behind.

Yet the biggest win for British unicorns-in-waiting would be full access to the digital single market which will make online sales to Belgium or Portugal no harder than their US counterparts find transacting with Texas.

The tech industry has always refused to be straitjacketed by regulations or borders. For Londons leading role to be preserved, it must keep pushing for the ultimate prize.
L loyd Dorfman wasnt short of a bob or two before todays sale of The Office Group. Now 200 million or so wealthier, its worth pondering where the Travelex billionaire sees his next fortune.

The answer is fitting given the retail deals emerging over the weekend: the logistics around click and collect. Namely, the knotty detail about how to help people pick up the goods theyve ordered online when theyre not at home to receive them.

Doddle will have 1000 bases in stores including Morrisons and Rymans by the end of next year, plus a bunch of mainline rail stations where you can pick up or return your online orders on the way to and from work. Several big retailers are now considering contracting in its IT, and five overseas companies are looking to buy in Doddles tech and expertise.

Theres a connection between Dorfmans Doddle and TOG. Both focus on the side-effects of the digital revolution: fast-growing businesses need for trendy offices and retailers needs to solve their internet delivery logistics.

With that lateral view, Dorfman profits from the web without actually getting caught up in the really risky business of being at its leading edge. Thats smart because, particularly in Doddles world of retail, companies trying to stay in front have been driven to pursue ever more bonkers and expensive strategies.

First, Amazon. With its dizzying Silicon Valley valuation, you can forgive it for not bothering about the small matter of securing a return on shareholders capital. But paying $13 billion for Whole Foods defies all logic. Even in its US homeland, Whole Foods is a small, pricey niche player struggling as Walmart, Costco and Aldi launch their own, cheap, organic ranges.

Amazon is the polar opposite: a vast, highly price-conscious seller of all things to all men. Apart from the fact that neither has cracked how to sell food profitably online, these two companies have nothing in common.

Still, for Amazon chief Jeff Bezos, the Whole Foods deal is less than 3% of his companys market value. So, who cares?

You cant say that for Sainsburys current takeover strategy  a 1.4 billion deal for Argos now followed by a 130 million bid for corner shops mutual Nisa. Argos fills space in Sainsburys big stores, but its hard to see how electricals retail wont turn into an online-only race to the bottom on margins in a few years. Meanwhile, the Nisa bid looks like a kneejerk reaction to Tescos tie-up with Booker.

And it is a deeply inferior deal. Even critics of Tesco-Booker concede the combined business will benefit from the skills of Booker chief Charles Wilson. Few are saying the same of Nisa chief Nick Read. Booker is a stable, strong business, whereas Nisa is a messy mutual facing a rebellion from many of its own store owners. And as for governance, it wasnt so long ago when an 18-year-old launched a failed leadership bid.

Add in the monopoly implications of Sainsbury-Nisa supplying rivals such as McColls and it sounds increasingly desperate.

When deals like this even get on the drawing board, its far better to nibble around the edges of this retail mess like Dorfman.
L ondon businesses have pressed negotiators to protect the capital from a disastrous cliff-edge Brexit as historic talks on leaving the EU began in Brussels.

Brexit Secretary David Davis is leading the opening round of the talks, due to finish in November next year before the UK pulls out in March 2019. But since Theresa Mays election setback, the clamour from business for a softer Brexit limiting the economic damage of the momentous move has grown.

Colin Stanbridge, chief executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, called for a realistic transition period of up to five years on behalf of the bodys 2500 members. We need time to achieve the best possible Brexit but that will mean that we cant fall off a cliff edge, he warned.

The LCCI boss also called for vital clarity on the status of EU workers with around 600,000 jobs in the capital held by EU-born workers, as well as protection for lower-skilled workers, not just the cream at the top.

There are companies with large EU workforces who have no idea what to tell their staff. The London economy is obviously crucial to the UK economy and it has its needs.

If you dont meet those needs then youre going to put not just London at risk but the whole of the UK economy at risk.

Jasmine Whitbread, chief executive of lobby group London First, added: If a comprehensive deal isnt reached by March 2019, we need transitional arrangements that ensure British jobs, growth or living standards arent threatened while negotiations continue.

Miles Roberts, who runs FTSE 250-listed packaging group DS Smith, called for uninhibited access to continental Europe and the ability to hire top skills from Europe to support us.

Other senior figures weighed in, with former Marks & Spencer boss Lord Rose saying we all know we cant have our cake and eat it. But Wetherspoons founder and Leave supporter Tim Martin added you have to be prepared to walk away if theres a bad deal and accused lobby groups of gross exaggeration over the impact of Brexit.

Kallum Pickering, senior UK economist at Berenberg, said the talks were more likely to affect the currency than the wider economy.

Unless it gets much worse  i.e. government breaks down and new elections are called  I dont think therell be much impact on near-term demand. If Brexit talks get off to a good start and it looks like progress is being made, sterling could be positively affected.
T he grotesque attack by a man in a van on worshippers leaving the Finsbury Park mosque that killed one man and injured many others has been traumatic for the local Muslim community. It has also confirmed the fears of many Muslims that they are being victimised as a result of the Islamist attacks in Southwark and Westminster. Londoners of all backgrounds will today want to show sympathy for the Finsbury Park community and to assert that this is a city united in its diversity. The proper  only  response to this attack is for the rest of us to show more decency, restraint and solidarity with each other, not less.

Busting Brexit myths

Twelve months have passed since Britain voted to leave the EU, yet the negotiations are only starting today. As a result of our self-imposed deadline to leave by the spring of 2019, we now have less than 20 months to start and conclude complex talks that will define our economic future and relationship with our neighbours for decades to come. Most leading Brexiteers remain completely unrealistic about what is achievable and the strength of Britains negotiating hand. They tell us today to raise our eyes to the horizon, but in the process we may all walk off the cliff in front of us. One welcome exception to this Panglossian nonsense appears to be Brexit Secretary, David Davis. Exposed as he has been to the details, he knows that on everything from building customs facilities at Dover to securing essential landing rights for British-based airlines, we face an enormous task that risks overwhelming the capacity of the state. Were that to happen, the damage to the country would be immense, and terminal for the governing party.

False claims

Mr Davis prides himself on being able to think two steps ahead. So he should begin these talks by lowering expectations. He could start by exploding three transparently false claims. The first is that no deal is better than a bad deal. Britain isnt a company making a deal with a supplier it never has to see again; its a country trying to disentangle itself from more than 40 years of law-making with neighbours who will still be there the day after we leave.

The Chancellor, Philip Hammond, clearly enjoying life after resurrection from political death, points out the obvious: no deal would be very, very bad for Britain. So lets stop pretending we can walk away from the table.

The second false claim is that we could agree a full trade deal with the EU in time for when we leave in 2019. This remains the official position of the Government. It, too, is rubbish. No senior British official believes that is remotely possible. It is obvious we need a prolonged transition deal, and this paper has argued that the most obvious and least disruptive one is membership of the European Economic Area and customs union. Many Brexiteers now agree  so lets calm the anxieties of business and settle it.

The third claim is that Britain could withdraw residency rights from the more than three million EU citizens living here in Britain. Given the damage that would do to our economy and public services, it was always a ridiculous position that only Theresa May herself believed plausible.

Now there is no majority in the Commons for that dismal and damaging threat, we assume that a rejuvenated Labour opposition will table a motion to guarantee EU citizens rights within weeks. Rather than suffer a humiliating defeat, the Government could get the Brexit talks off to a positive start by unilaterally offering residency rights to these valued members of our community. It is that wonderful thing: an act of self-interest that can be dressed up as a gesture of generosity. We are going to need more such imagination if todays negotiations are going to work for Britain.
I n the satirical magazine The Onions Our Dumb Century, the headline given to the spoof report of the sinking of the Titanic was: Worlds Largest Metaphor Hits Iceberg. Theres something of that quality to the way in which the story of the Grenfell Tower fire is unfolding. It hits so many points of contact.

Theres a weakened and remote Prime Minister. Theres the relationship between local and national government  the formers funding slashed; the latter finding ways to blame the former for its plight. Theres Londons housing situation  the poor in high-rise tinderboxes cheek by jowl with the rich in mansions. Theres the exemplary stories of human bravery and kindness. Theres the emergency services and building regulations, cost-cutting and social housing, profiteering and the voicelessness of the less well-off. Theres those devastating YouTube videos of Boris Johnson telling a colleague in a row over cuts to firefighters to get stuffed. This story has, so to speak, caught fire.

And, no, Im not politicising a human tragedy. Politics is the question of how we organise ourselves as a society. Building regulations, local government funding, the way we fund and organise emergency services, the support we offer to the homeless and traumatised, the institutional ways we seek to comfort the bereaved and broken these are all political issues.

Theresa Mays shortcomings, starkly exposed by the election but more damagingly underscored by the Grenfell fire, are part of this story. So is the decades-long war on red tape lazily and ignorantly colluded in by politicians and tabloids: red tape is what stops your children getting lead poisoning from their toys; red tape is what stops your employer sacking you when youre pregnant; red tape is what prevents you, or should prevent you, from burning to death in your own home.

And there are huge questions, both political and legal, over the way residents warned again and again that a fire would come, and would cost lives, and that they were not only ignored but threatened with legal action for doing so. Oh boy, there must be a reckoning about that. To say nothing of the question as to why if flammable cladding is illegal in the US  not exactly the most stifling regulatory environment  it isnt illegal here.

These are, damn right, political questions. And politics is what we need to respond to them. Politics, and the majesty of the law. But theres a feeling  call it a vibe, call it the sense of a narrative convention  that this is starting to run beyond politics. And, worse, beyond the law. That something is simmering in this heat, that something ugly is being born. That rage  justified, righteous, free-floating rage  is spilling out and seeking an object. That the red mist  that state of unaccountable unknowing  is descending.

We could be on the verge of an internal refugee crisis, and the call for the vacant houses of wealthy investors to be expropriated to house the homeless feels right. It feels right, morally. Screw them, right? The rich did this; or so we have decided. But if it isnt legal  and I strongly suspect it isnt  were into deep water. In Trumps America and Mugabes Zimbabwe, the independence of the judiciary  the written law  is the main line of defence against the arbitrary power of the executive. And if it might feel good to flex populist muscle now, the multimillion-pound compensation claims  draining the coffers available to help the poorest and enriching absentee landlords  will not.

Protesters storm Kensington town hall 1 /36 Protesters storm Kensington town hall Protesters crowd onto a staircase as they enter Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Protesters storm Kensington Town Hall Getty Images Protesters call for a response from council officials AFP/Getty Images Fighting breaks out on the stairs of the town hall Getty Images Protesters entered Kensington Town Hall during a demo following the fire that destroyed Grenfell Tower block REUTERS Demonstrators enter Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Singer Lily Allen joins a march at Kensington Town Hall REUTERS A protester bangs on a glass door REUTERS Protesters enter Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Protesters are watched by security guards on a staircase REUTERS Getty Images REUTERS REUTERS PA REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO, outside Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO, outside Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO, outside Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO, outside Kensington Town Hall REUTERS Demonstrators confront a man they believe to be Robert Black, the Chief Executive of KCTMO, outside Kensington Town Hall REUTERS

What we need now are cool heads, public honesty and the fullest use of the robust political and legal institutions in place. This country may be in a bigger mess than I can remember in my lifetime but it is a mature democracy. We need to change the laws, not break them. We need politics and the law, not riots.

Pammy v Theresa: the plot thickens

You couldnt quite script some interventions. Pamela Andersons public love-letter to Julian Assange had so much in it to marvel at that its almost impossible to pick a highlight. Is it the Montaignean disquisition on the question of what is sexy (answer: Julian)? Is it the legally questionable assertion that the great bail-jumper has won his case against Sweden and that Theresa May kept him imprisoned in the embassy for five years and refuses to allow him to leave.

Or is it, rather, the assertion that Theresa May of the Pyhrric [sic] victory is the worst Prime Minister in living memory? That she qualified that statement with living memory rather than history implies a very pleasing scholarly fastidiousness. Perhaps she has strong views on Andrew Bonar Law that we ought to be hearing.

Bloody hell, I said to a friend yesterday. Pamela Anderson has said Theresa May is the worst Prime Minister in living memory. Yeah, well. Theresas sex-tape was better, my companion said briskly, and we went back to making bread.
I ts easy to throw brickbats and try to make political advantage of horrific events such as the Grenfell Tower fire. The Aberfan disaster, Ronan Point and Zeebrugge ferry incidents also come to mind, all caused unintentionally by neglect.

In the case of Grenfell, the state provision of social housing is a well-intentioned programme to house people as well as possible. The genesis of social housing comes more from social-reform thinking than capitalism but that does not mean either are to blame precisely or exclusively for this event.

It is plainly obvious that there has been a decision, or more likely a series of decisions, the logical consequences of which have not been followed through. The horror of facing ones death in the manner that the victims must have done is palpable and our sympathy for those who have suffered is beyond any words I can find.

However, after a tragedy such as Grenfell Tower, we must examine the detail quickly and react intelligently but carefully. Otherwise, there could be another horror to come.

Sir James Pickthorn



How disgusting it was that our Prime Minister, Theresa May, did not at first meet any of the victims of what appears to be our nations worst disaster of recent years when visiting Grenfell Tower, and only visiting well after the event.

In times of need, politics must be put aside by our leaders and authentic concern, sympathy and leadership must be shown. Mays actions once again are a dereliction of her basic duty to the office of Prime Minister and, more importantly, the people she should be representing.

There is no point standing on the steps of Downing Street talking about social mobility and privilege when refusing to meet some of the most disadvantaged people now affected by this most heinous of disasters  regardless of cuts, austerity or gentrification.

If she can shake and hold the hand of Donald Trump, why cant she hold out a hand to those of our own citizens most in need?

Barbara Lindsay



The residents of Grenfell Tower rightly need answers but they dont need the platitudes of the politicians  they need action.

Once again, our politicians have failed. The immediate concerns are a place to sleep, food, clothes and money. To keep the residents together, why couldnt the Government commandeer a local hotel with sufficient rooms to accommodate all the residents affected until permanent accommodation is found? That way, residents would not need to worry about somewhere to stay as well as food, clothes and toys.

Gerry Shearer



May should quit to let us move forward

I am just an average voter who doesnt mind admitting that I have voted Conservative all my life  until the most recent election, that is.

There was just something about the way the campaign was run that wasnt heartfelt, in my view, so I voted Liberal Democrat. I did so not because I am a Lib-Dem but because both Tim Farron and Jeremy Corbyn displayed a genuineness about themselves and speak from the heart, not a script like Theresa May.

I always knew that most politicians were egotistical but with her intention to crush the opposition and become an elected Prime Minister, May has taken the country back 20 years. Now she doesnt have a majority and is about to cut a deal with the DUP. Where is her dignity?

Is it really a case of gaining power at any cost? All this does is show that she never had the nations interest at heart and was only focused on feeding her insatiable appetite for power. She must now show the nation some respect and resign, and let the country get on with its business.

John Ettles



Shameful DUP deal will come at a cost

The Conservatives deal with the DUP will come at the cost of ending the Northern Ireland peace process. It seems the days of the Government acting as an honest broker between sectarian rivalries are gone.

Instead, in a desperate effort to hold on to political power, we will have a deal with a party backed by the Ulster Defence Association (UDA), a paramilitary Protestant organisation still active in Northern Ireland with its latest murder a few weeks ago.

Arlene Foster, the leader of the DUP, met a leader of the UDA during the election campaign and allegations of financial mismanagement and fraud still hang over her role in the Renewable Energy Incentive (RHI), which is under investigation. Her refusal to stand down temporarily as leader of the DUP until the investigation was complete led to the collapse of the power-sharing initiative and the return of direct rule.

Shame on the Tories and Theresa May for dealing with such a party.

Rachel McKenzie



Wrong to stay in customs union

Chancellor Philip Hammond is reported to be pressing for ways to ensure that, after leaving the EU, Britain retains the benefits of the customs union and the single market.

These are two very different propositions. CheThe benefits of continued access to the European single market are undeniable if we can get them on reasonable terms. The problem is that Brussels has hitherto evinced no desire to be reasonable.

The customs union, on the other hand, requires Britain to maintain a tariff wall against imports from the rest of the world.

Even Norway, which is often touted as a model for post-Brexit Britain, doesnt belong to the customs union, despite depending much more heavily on its trade with continental Europe than we do.

Staying in the customs union would be tantamount to remaining in the EU and would be a denial of the free- trade traditions which were one of the motivating forces behind the referendum result.

Martin R Maloney

Join the conversation: #esnewsviews



Chelsea need to keep on spending

For the first time since Jose Mourinho first joined the club in 2004, Chelsea have in Antonio Conte a manager who is capable of staying at the club on a long-term basis. Yet the clubs reluctance to sign players could see Conte walk away.

While your writer Simon Johnson insists Conte wont be leaving, it is typical of Chelsea to curb investment in players after a title win. In 2010, after winning the Double, Carlo Ancelotti was only allowed to sign Yuri Zhirkov and Ramires. Likewise, after Mourinhos third title win in 2015, only Pedro, Asmir Begovic and Baba Rahman arrived.

With their rivals strengthening their squads and other teams looking to steal Conte away from the Premier League, Chelsea must not repeat their own mistake of failing to invest. Its time for Roman Abramovich to get out his chequebook.

Michael King

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B eaches might mean wrestling with a deckchair and finding sand in the most regrettable of places, but theyre undeniably good fun. No matter how much we all might love London, sometimes its nice to pretend to have escaped the city for a few hours.

Heres where to get a seaside fix across the capital  and thank goodness, theres no need to worry about having a beach body or any of that nonsense.

Beaches listed in order of opening. Those already open listed in no particular order.

Rooftop Beach, Brixton

Be warned, this place gets crowded, but it gets crowded with good reason: its probably Londons finest urban beach, all things considered. Top location, nicely done decor, and besides the obvious  deckchairs, opportunity to drown in Pina coladas  theyve got everything from salsa classes to DJ parties, BBQ Thursdays to a Chilli Con Carnival. Read this page for more details. Other highlights include raves at dawn, courtesy of Morning Gloryville, sets from the likes of Norman Jay and food from, among others, Mac to the Future. Oh, and to top it all off, this year theyve got a Cuban theme. See you there.

Info: Now  October 1, Pope's End, SW9 8JH, brixtonrooftop.com

Neverland, Fulham

Fulham is presently a paradise of white sand, day beds, pastel beach huts, swings and palm trees, as Neverland makes its debut. Spread out over 20 metres, theyve a host of street food stalls, including The Duck Truck, Taco Dave and Le Rac Shack  yup, theres a chance to have raclette on the beach. Crikey. Enjoyably, Neverland is BYOB, though beware its limited to one bottle of wine/prosecco or four cans of beer or half a bottle of spirits per person. Mixers can be found at the Unleaded Bar, or you could just call on the services of the Beach Butler. Fancy. Tickets are 6.

Info: Now  October 3, Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 2TY, neverlandlondon.com

Southbank Centre, Southbank

This family-friendly outdoor spot is always popular. Its pretty simple, being not much more than a giant sandpit on the banks of the Thames, but its a lovely spot, completely free and theres always something decent on at the Southbank Centre itself to head to before or afterwards.

Info: Now  September 24, Belvedere Rd, SE1 8XX, southbankcentre.co.uk

The Beach Bar at the Montague, Bloomsbury

Remember the bar on the beach in Cocktail? This has some of those vibes, though chances are you wont find Tom Cruise behind the counter. Theres real sand, a rather charming beach hut with a thatched roof, plenty of cocktails and a barbecue on offer. Beware that the place often gets booked up for private parties; the best bet is to ring ahead to see if theyre open to the public (020 7637 1001). Oh, and its probably not the place for a long night, as theyve only very few seats.

Info: Now  September 24, 15 Montague St, WC1B 5BJ, montaguehotel.com

The Brent Cross Beach, Brent Cross

This award-winning spot has upped everything this year, with more sand, more water and plenty of rides. More than a beach, its a slice of the seaside come to north London. Open from noon, it has its own fun fair and the likes of dune buggies, water walkers and bumper boats, and while its very family friendly, theres plenty aimed squarely just at adults. Entry 3.

Info: June 23  September 10, Brent Cross Shopping Centre, NW4 3FP, thebeachbrentcross.com

The JW3 Beach, Hampstead

Though closed on Saturdays, this north London spot is worth seeking out for a long summer evening. Theres golden sand, plenty of cocktails and good things to eat and though details are still under wraps, there should be plenty of events happening, too. Check the website for details.

Info: From July 2 (closing date TBC), 341-351 Finchley Rd, NW3 6ET, jw3.org.uk

The London Docks beach, Newham

This free, great long stretch of sand does somewhat feel like being on an actual beach, as its moored up right by the Thames, so youll feel the wind coming up off the water. The view, sadly, isnt endless sea but our river lapping up against blocks of flats, but its still a good spot to be, and charmingly simple: they recommend lazing in a deckchair, building a sandcastle, ambien cr online pharmacy relaxing with the Sunday papers and eating ice cream. Couldnt have put it better ourselves.

Info: July 17  August 31, London Docks, londonsroyaldocks.com

Best beaches near London 1 /42 Best beaches near London 1. Camber Sands Famous for its long ridges of sand dunes, Camber has been a location for many films, especially if desert shots are required. This is a place to come to enjoy wide expanses of sand - the beach stretches for seven miles - and an opportunity to take in the sea air. If you're planning to go sunbathing this weekend, bring a windbreak  it can get blustery on the beach.



Best for: a day out walking the dog Alamy Camber Sands Alamy 2. Brighton Its loud, kitsch and brash - but theres a reason why Brighton is one of Britains most popular seaside towns. The beach itself is shingle and sand (the pebbles can be slightly painful underfoot) but the atmosphere and attractions are unrivalled. Theres a refurbished pier, fun fairs and arcades as well as plenty of excellent cafes, bars and galleries to keep you occupied. Prepare to compete with crowds to secure a space for your towel on the beach.



Best for: a day out with friends Alamy Brighton Alamy 3. West Beach, Whitstable West Beach is a long stretch of shingle divided up by wooden groynes, that runs from just south of the town's harbour to neighbouring Seasalter. Wooden beach shacks, weatherboard cottages and fishing boats pulled up on the beach are just some of the quaint elements that give Whistable a quintessentially English charm. Make sure to pop into the brilliant Neptune pub that sits right on the beach front for a pint of ale and some people watching or one of the many oyster restaurants.



Best for: foodies Alamy Whistable West Alamy 4. West Wittering Offering wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond, this natural and unspoilt sandy haven has been a favourite bucket and spade day out for generations. Theres a sandy beach with grassy picnic areas for enjoying sandwiches in the sun, plus a wind and kite surfing club for those who want to pack some activities into their weekend.



Best for: a family day out Alamy West Wittering Alamy 5. Botany Bay Its one of the most photographed bays in England, and with good reason too: this hidden gem offers stunning views of white cliffs and natural chalk stacks. When the tide is out, locals find that Botany is a great location for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools for natural wildlife. Theres is plenty of exposed sand to enjoy when the tide is in, but dont go here expecting to spend all day on the beach: due to the bay's shape the ends are cut off at high tide.



Best for: budding photographers (or Instagram addicts) Alamy Botany Bay Alamy 6. Hastings Aside from the beautiful pebble and sand beach, Hastings is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe, the remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror and a preserved Old Town. Backed by grand whitewashed Edwardian hotels and a two-layered promenade, Hastings has all the credentials of a Great British seaside town - there is even a fine Victorian pier.



Best for: history lovers Alamy Hastings Alamy 7. Dungeness The shingle beach in Dungeness has an almost surreal quality thanks to its flat and vast expanse of shingle thats technically classified as a desert. The post-apocalyptic landscape is punctuated only by dilapidated wooden huts, two lighthouses and the hulking form of the Dungeness nuclear power station in the distance. Many people are drawn to the area simply by its romantic bleakness. Angling is popular here, particularly a spot known as the "patch" or "boil". This is where heated water and sewage is pumped out of the power station creating an oasis of sea life.



Best for: fishing Alamy Dungeness Alamy 8. Mersea Island The tiny estuary island of Mersea in Essex is a must-visit for both seafood fans and families looking for a quiet spot with a quaint seaside charm. Sailing is a huge part of island life and the waters here are brimming with boats of every shape and size as well as the colourful sails of windsurfers and kitesurfers. With its calm, shallow waters, its a great place to try out a watersport at first hand. If you can, try and get a table at the Company Shed, where you can eat your bodyweight in oysters and prawns.



Best for: sailing Alamy Mersea Island Alamy 9. Margate Beach Margate used to fall into the decaying seaside town bracket, but in recent years its star has been in the ascendant. Just a couple of minutes walk from the station (it's under 2 hours to Victoria) you'll find the main promenade and beach, where you can eat fish and chips and sunbathe before popping into the Turner Contemporary gallery. Hipsters will love Dreamland, a retro amusement park dispensing new-age fun.



Best for: art lovers Alamy Margate Alamy

The Roundhouse Beach, Camden

It is a beach, this one, but last on the list as it's more of an outdoor cinema on sand. Films include the likes of Cast Away, Withnail and I, Lion, Kinky Boots and Logan, and theyll be showing the Wimbledon finals on July 15 and 16 too. Theres a beach side bar and the option to rent a beach bed, with wine and beer, popcorn and ice cream. Tickets are 13.50.

Info: June 15  August 28, Chalk Farm Rd, NW1 8EH, roundhouse.org.uk
N ew York electronic rockers LCD Soundsystem have announced they are to headline a show in London for the first time since reforming last year.

They are set to play Alexandra Palace on Friday September 22 and 23, with tickets now on sale. Tickets can be bought here.

The Grammy-nominated group, best known for tracks Daft Punk Is Playing at My House and Someone Great, disbanded in February 2011 with a note pinned on their website.

More than four years later, following reunion rumours, a Christmas single  the cheerily titled Christmas Will Break Your Heart  was released in late 2015 and in January last year, they confirmed they were back together. A summer of festival appearances followed, including one at Lovebox in Victoria Park, but the upcoming September show will be their first non-festival appearance in the capital in seven years. They last played London at the Coronet in Elephant and Castle in 2010.

The show comes as part of a busy year for the All My Friends hitmakers, who excited fans with the release of new singles Call The Police and American Dream. Their new album, also called American Dream, will be released on September 1, which will be followed by a full UK and European tour.
T he first thing I see on walking into Square Root Soda HQ is the businesss co-founder Ed Taylor laying the table. Its just after 1pm and in a few moments he and his staff will gather around makeshift wooden tables and eat lunch together after a long morning spent bottling. Its a simple, happy scene, but one that says a lot about how he and his business partner and girlfriend Robyn Simms, with whom he set it up in 2012, run the Hackney fruit soda start-up that has become such a familiar name across London.

After our interview, Simms shows me the juicing room where theres a huge pile of Sicilian lemons awaiting peeling.

We take the rind off and then we juice it, and at that point theres usually this huge smell of lemon coming off it, she says excitedly, adding that on other days it might be the sweet smell of ginger, rhubarb or strawberries that take over the space.

The fact that everything is made here with their team of 16 people is something Taylor is keen to make clear - and today the big news here is that the pair have invested in a new bottling machine, which will enable them to significantly increase the amount they produce.

The most important thing we want to remind people is that we do everything ourselves - not everyone seems to realise that! he says to me. Yeah, agrees Simms. The fruit arrives here and the finished bottles leave from our warehouse and get delivered from there.

At this point, Taylor nudges Simms to alert her that shell need to hurry if she wants any of the last few remaining potatoes for lunch - which I realise is my cue to dash off.

The following weekend, whilst staying in Carmarthenshire, West Wales, I happen to spot their sodas on the drinks menu at a small restaurant there, and think how far they've come in six years.

Why did you start the business?

Ed was a brewer and I was running my own part-time market stall selling seasonal abundant produce here, and originally we wanted to start a brewery. But having sold ginger beer at the stall, which was what everybody was asking for, people were bringing empty bottles that theyd filled up the week before and drunk over the week, so we continued. [Later we started] selling drinks from our vintage tricycle at Kerb Markets, and it blossomed from there After our first summers trading, we realised we needed to make it into more of a sustainable thing. This railway arch hapened to be on Eds daily commute, and one day he cycled past and it had no front on it as Network Rail were redeveloping it, so he got in touch. We had to fight off 10 other interested parties to get here, but we submitted our proposal and because of the success of E5 Bakehouse, its exactly the kind of thing they wanted to have.

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What has the reaction been like?

The people who really liked it at the start are still buying it, which is amazing. When we started sampling the sodas, people were excited that they were so different to everything else theyd tried [and we went straight into having them sold in E5 Bakehouse which was great]. But the people in the same yard as us thought we were insane - I recently found out that theyd had a bet on us that it would fail within six months! At the Kerb Camden stall people love lemonade, but are skeptical that we make them ourselves using fresh fruit so we often have to point out that there are people juicing lemons in front of them.

How many soda products do you make?

We make 12 a year, but some of them are seasonal and come back every year, like rhubarb. Were also trying a peach melba soda, as we got approached by a fruit seller who had loads of unripe peaches that are really hard to sell. So were always turning new flavours around - a new one takes 3 weeks to a month to do as well try out all the new flavours, do a test run on that and pasteurise it to make sure it still tastes good.

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Where do you sell your sodas now?

We directly service about 350 customers and then there are some small distributors we work with as well, and its now sold in Paris, Amsterdam and recently Vienna too.

How many bottles have you sold since you started?

Were making about 15,000 bottles a week at the moment, which should increase to 20,000 in the next couple of weeks as the summer runs on. That compares to 88,000 which we sold in a whole year when we started.

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Whats a typical day of soda making entail?

My day varies so much as I do all of the tying together jobs. We run our Kerb Camden stall seven days a week but production-wise well be bottling Tuesday to Friday - Mondays a solid production day so by the end of it everyones covered head to toe in fruit, and then when we all go to the pub they know where weve come from! The fruit gets chopped, juiced, has soda added and also a bit of lemon juice to balance it out. It gets chilled overnight, botted and capped the next morning, pasteurised, then sent off to our warehouse to be stored. For the labels, a friend of mine does the illustrations in black and white and Ed and I then arrange them how we want. We also press a lot of fruit for breweries, and give the pulp to one of them, as well. Using it all was something that was really important for us to do from the beginning. Weve always been sustainability conscious, and weve always been as low impact as possible.

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Do you use any ingredients from in or around London?

We mostly used to buy from New Spitalfields Market, which is just down the lane, but now well buy direct from farms, especially English produce like rhubarb. All of our citrus fruit comes from this amazing collection of small farmers in Sicily who we found. Every so often a ton of lemons will arrive and smell amazing - theyre unwaxed and untreated so all of it goes into what we make.

Was it important to you both to start a local London business?

Yes, Ed and I moved to London 10 years ago and live near here, and because weve been here so along it felt like a really intrinsic part of the whole business. In other jobs Id also been working with produce that grows in and around London so it was nice to factor that into it all.

What has it been like running a business in London?

The challenge is always space. Weve just expanded and we now have another warehouse on Well Street where we stock a lot of product - without that we wouldnt have been able to get to this size because you have to keep so many of each bottle. But the support has been amazing - there are so many other people running small businesses, and so many other producers too, so if something breaks its just a quick phonecall or you can run down the road to ask for help.

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Do you still drink the soda?

Yes, I taste every single batch every morning. And then I buy them when were out, all the time - its the reason we started doing them as wed go out and if I didnt want to drink alcohol, everything else was so sugary. So I made a product that I wanted to drink. And I enjoy working on this business immensely!

Organic fizzy drinks - in pictures 1 /8 Organic fizzy drinks - in pictures Dalston Cola Real Lemonade 2, cravedlondon.com Whole Earth Apple and Raspberry 0.99, forestfungi.co.uk Galvanina Clementine Sparkling Organic Fruit Drink 2.87, ocado.com Cawston Press Sparkling Rhubarb 0.74, goodnessdirect.co.uk Heartsease Farm Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade 2.29, ocado.com Organic Luscombe Madagascan Vanilla Soda 2.85, organicwholefoods.co.uk

Are there other London producers that you admire or that youve enjoyed working with?

I absolutely adore Lillie OBrien from London Borough of Jam. Shes incredible and she treats ingredients in the same way that we do, focused on flavour first and then making it a marketable product later. I met a few other people that make jam recently, tried theirs, and then went back to having hers and couldnt believe how good it was. We also collaborate a lot, too and we recently made a shandy with Beavertown Brewery, which was fun. The thing that keeps this interesting is turning the flavours over, and then doing things with new people who want to do something interesting with your drink, and sharing that.

Square Root Sodas trade at Kerb Market in Camden daily from 10am until 7pm; squarerootsoda.co.uk
T hree months after Theresa May triggered Article 50, formal Brexit negotiations have begun in Brussels today.

The first full face-to-face meetings between teams of EU and UK negotiators began in the Berlaymont building at 11am.

Over the next two years, the two sides will thrash out key issues surrounding Britains leave, including citizens rights, Britains exit bill and the Irish border.

But who are the officials that will be working to define Britains Brexit deal?

These are the main negotiators.

The UK

David Davis

David Davis is representing the UK in Brexit negotiations / Reuters

As Brexit secretary, David Davis will be Britains principal negotiator in Brussels.

Heading up the Governments Department for Exiting the European Union, he will work to establish future relations between the UK and the bloc.

Davis has already played a key role in Brexit, having helped Theresa May to get the Article 50 Bill through Parliament earlier this month.

The 68-year-old Conservative MP for Haltemprice and Howden will be leading the talks on what Britain wants from negotiations, working closely with Parliament to ensure the leave process happens in the two-year negotiation period.

Sir Tim Barrow

AFP/Getty Images

Britains ambassador to the EU has overall responsibility for the UKs departure from the Union.

He became part of the Brexit narrative earlier this year, when his predecessor Sir Ivan Rogers stepped down from the role.

His job will be to ensure Britains policies are clearly explained to EU member states.

Barrow has a long political career, having been a civil servant in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) since 1986.

He served in London, Kiev, Moscow and Brussels, and until last year, served as the Ambassador to Russia before returning to London as the FCOs Political Director.

Oliver Robbins

Oliver Robbins will help to support the UK in negotiations to leave the EU, while working to help establish future relations.

This will include helping the Government to establish its position for future relations with Europe and outside of the EU.

His official role is Permanent Secretary for the Department for Exiting the European Union, and he will work closely with David Davis.

Brexit: Article 50 Triggered - In pictures 1 /26 Brexit: Article 50 Triggered - In pictures Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow delivers British Prime Minister Theresa May's formal notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to European Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels AFP/Getty Images Prime Minister Theresa May speaks during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Common PA Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow delivers British Prime Minister Theresa May's formal notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to European Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels AFP/Getty Images European Council President Donald Tusk holds a news conference after receiving British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit letter in notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to EU Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters Prime Minister Theresa May takes her seat after announcing in the House of Commons PA The time 12:20pm shows on Big Ben on March 29, 2017 in London, England. The British Prime Minister Theresa May addresses the Houses of Parliament as Article 50 is triggered and the process that will take the United Kingdom out of the European Union begins Carl Court/Getty Images D-day: pro-EU protesters outside of the Houses of Parliament today as Theresa May prepares to trigger Article 50 AFP/Getty Images EU Council President Donald Tusk holds British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit letter which was delivered by Britain's permanent representative to the European Union Tim Barrow (not pictured) that gives notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters PMQ's in The House of Commons PA Jeremy Corbyn speaking at PMQ's in The House of Commons Sky News Theresa May leaving for the House of Commons Jeremy Selwyn Mayor of London Sadiq Khan at the headquarters of Vivendi in Paris where he took part in TV interviews to discuss the imminent triggering of Article 50 by the UK to leave the EU Stefan Rousseau/PA Britain's permanent representative to the European Union Tim Barrow arrives at the EU Council headquarters for as meeting before hand delivering British Prime Minister Theresa May's notice of the UK's intention to leave the bloc under Article 50 of the EU's Lisbon Treaty to EU Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels, Belgium Yves Herman/Reuters Britain's ambassador to the EU Tim Barrow arrives at the British representation of the European Union in Brussels Aurore Belot/AFP/Getty Images A giant headed Theresa May in Parliament Square, London during a protest by Avaaz after PM signed a letter to trigger Article 50 that starts the formal exit process by the UK from the European Union David Mirzoeff/PA British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson walks down Whitehall Jack Taylor/Getty Images Britain's PM Theresa May signs the official letter to European Council President Donald Tusk, invoking Article 50. AFP/Getty Images

Europe

Michel Barnier

AP

As the Europes chief negotiator, French Republican Michel Barnier will lead the EUs side of discussions as dictated to him by the 27 heads of member states, as well as European Council president Donald Tusk.

Alongside his task force, he will coordinate the Commissions work on all strategic, operational, legal and financial issues related to these negotiations, according to an official statement.

Today, Barnier will work with Davis to scope out a timetable for the negotiations during a 90-minute session, and then spend two-and-a-half hours in working groups responding to agreements from the principal negotiators.

Barnier: Brexit deal won't be quick or painless

Didier Seeuws

AFP/Getty Images

Seeuws is the European Councils chief negotiator for its special task force in the UK, who will coordinate negotiation talks on behalf of the Council members.

The Flemish diplomat will be tasked with making sure the deal is smoothly reached by chairing the committee of EU member states that oversees Michel Barnier.

Sabine Weyan

As Mr Barniers second in command, Weyand will be a key part of discussions with Britain during the process of finalising the Brexit deal.

Her official title is the European Commission's deputy chief negotiator for its special UK task force.

Weyand has extensive experience in representing world leaders, having chaired G7 and G8 summits in the past.

She will act independently of her German capital, working instead for the broader European interest.
A money launderer whose taste for driving a black Ferrari helped law enforcers catch a drugs gang has been given nearly seven years more in jail for failing to repay his crime profits.

Raj Koli, from Bayswater, was given a 1.6 million confiscation order in 2011 following his conviction two years earlier for conspiring to conceal, disguise, convert or transfer criminal property.

He has already served a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence for that crime plus two further terms for breaching a serious crime prevention order imposed on him after his release.

But he has now been jailed again for another six years and nine months after paying only 83,692 of his confiscation order.

That means that more than 1.5 million of the original order is still outstanding, plus added interest of 732,463. That takes his total debt to more than 2.2 million.

The new prison term comes a decade after Koli was stopped by a surveillance team while driving his Ferrari. Law enforcers found a bag containing 414,770 sealed in plastic wrapping and carrying the fingerprints of drug baron Cavan Hanna.

Hanna and his brother Jamie were later arrested and jailed for running a huge drugs gang which a judge said had made enough money to make the jaws of the average citizen drop.

The gangs main safe house was a flat in Acton. It had also had a drugs factory in Abbey Wood in south-east London at which 15,000 ecstasy tablets and 80kg of amphetamine, together worth 1 million, were found.

Phil Aiken, from the National Crime Agency, welcomed the additional sentence for Koli. He said: Confiscation orders are a powerful weapon to deny access to the profits of crime, and failure to pay attracts a hefty penalty.

"Raj Koli still owes this money, now more than 2.2 million, and we will be using the tools at our disposal to identify any assets he has to enforce payment.

The new sentence follows Kolis jailing for breaching a serious crime prevention order by failing to comply with requirement to tell the authorities which car he was driving.

The restriction was intended to make it harder for freed criminals to evade monitoring, but was breached by Koli when he was spotted by a law enforcement officer in a garage forecourt queuing for petrol in an unauthorised vehicle.

He was sent back to prison for two years for the breach, although the penalty was later reduced to 12 months on appeal. @martinbentham
B oth Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Prime Minister Theresa May have said they are shocked after a van ploughed into worshippers leaving Finsbury Park mosque.

Mr Corbyn added his thoughts were with the victims and their families, while Mrs May said it was a "terrible incident".

At about 12.15 on Monday a van hit pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road.

One man was killed and 10 others injured, police said, in what is being treated as a terrorist attack.

Moment the Finsbury Park mosque attacker is arrested

A white man, aged 48, has been arrested.

Mr Corbyn said: "I am totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight.

"I've been in touch with the mosques, police and Islington council regarding the incident.

"My thoughts are with those and the community affected by this awful event."

Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park (Yui Mok/PA Wire) / Yui Mok/PA

Mrs May added: "All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene."

Mrs May will chair an emergency meeting of the Cobra committee later on Monday.

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London Mayor Sadiq Khan issued a similar message.

He said: "Thoughts and prayers with all those affected by the horrific terrorist attack on innocent people."
S adiq Khan has said extra police will be deployed to protect Muslim communities observing Ramadan after a suspected terror attack on worshippers near Finsbury Park mosque.

The Mayor condemned the horrific terrorist attack in which one person was killed and 10 people injured when a van ploughed into pedestrians near the north London mosque in the early hours of Monday morning.

Dozens of people had just finished prayers at the mosque when the vehicle veered into crowds in Seven Sisters Road at about 12.15am.

One man has been arrested and the Metropolitan Police said that Counter Terrorism officers are investigating the attack.

Prime Minister Theresa May said it was being treated as "a potential terrorist attack" and that she would hold a Cobra committee emergency meeting later on Monday.

Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park (James Gourley/Rex Features) / James Gourley/Rex

In a statement released shortly after 6am, Mr Khan praised the efforts of the emergency services and urged Londoners to remain calm and vigilant.

He said he had been in contact with police, community organisations in the area, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and the leader of the local council Richard Watts.

He said: My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected. I am grateful to our emergency services, who responded quickly and have been working on the scene throughout the night.

Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park (Yui Mok/PA Wire) / Yui Mok/PA

I have been in contact with the Met Commissioner and senior officers and am being kept updated on all developments. I have also spoken with community organisations in the area, local MP Jeremy Corbyn and leader of the council Richard Watts.

We don't yet know the full details, but this was clearly a deliberate attack on innocent Londoners, many of whom were finishing prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

While this appears to be an attack on a particular community, like the terrible attacks in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge it is also an assault on all our shared values of tolerance, freedom and respect.

One dead, eight in hospital after man drives into crowd near North London mosque

The situation is still unfolding and I urge all Londoners to remain calm and vigilant. Please report anything suspicious to the police, but only call 999 in an emergency.

The Met have deployed extra police to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan.

Eight of the injured people were taken to hospital, while two were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Finsbury Park attack June 19 1 /33 Finsbury Park attack June 19 Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park James Gourley/Rex The suspect is pinned to the ground by brave members of the public Forensic investigators examine the van Jeremy Selwyn James Gourley/Rex Features Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away James Gourley/Rex Features Rescuers: Emergency services staff treat victims after a vehicle hit pedestrians in Finsbury Park Thomas van Hulle/PA Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road PA Response: An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Emergency service workers at Finsbury Park in north London Yui Mok/PA Fears: Police officers talk with local people at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Paramedics: Ambulances in Finsbury Park Jennifer Heape/PA Police on one of the cordons in north London Yui Mok/PA Patrol: Armed officers near Seven Sisters Road Yui Mok/PA Cordon: Police in Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA People scuffle near a police cordon near Finsbury Park EPA PA Muslims pray on the street NIGEL HOWARD  Armed Police at the scene in Seven Sisters Road Nigel Howard Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement Jeremy Selwyn Forensic investigators at Finsbury Park PA The suspect is put in the back of a police van after being restrained at the scene Police at the scene neat Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain Aerial view of forensics at the scene of Seven Sisters Road Jeremy Selwyn Flowers are left near the scene at Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain

Bystanders wrestled a suspect to the floor. Officers on patrol nearby were at the scene within seconds and made one arrest.

A white man with black hair was seen being detained by police officers.

The Muslim Council of Britain has confirmed that worshippers leaving Finsbury Park Mosque were targeted when a van ran into them, adding: "Our prayers are with the victims."

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "One man was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers are in the process of informing next of kin.

"A post mortem examination will be scheduled due course.

Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals; two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

"At this stage there are no reports of any persons having suffered any knife injuries."

The spokesman continued: "The driver of the van - a man aged 48 - was found detained by members of public at the scene and then arrested by police in connection with the incident.

"He has been taken to hospital as a precaution, and will be taken into custody once discharged.

"He will also be subject of a mental health assessment in due course.

"A number police units are at, and managing the cordons around, the crime scene, including local officers and those from neighbouring boroughs - supported by armed officers and the Territorial Support Group.

"The investigation of the incident is being carried out by the Counter Terrorism Command.

"At this early stage of this investigation, no other suspects at the scene have been identified or reported to police, however the investigation continues."

Any witnesses, or anyone with any information, can contact police via 101, or via Twitter @MetCC. To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
A man is fighting for life and several other people were injured when a white van was driven into worshippers near Finsbury Park mosque.

About 10 pedestrians were hit when the rented van swerved onto the pavement on Seven Sisters Road shortly after midnight today.

A man was then said to have leapt out of the vehicle, and there were unconfirmed reports of at least one of the victims have been stabbed.

The nature of the attack drew immediate parallels with the London Bridge atrocity two weeks ago, in which eight innocent people were killed.

Bystanders wrestled a suspect to the floor. Officers on patrol nearby were at the scene within seconds and made one arrest.

The victims are believed to be Muslims who had been breaking fast at a cafe next to the mosque following late-night prayers observed during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Footage shared on social media showed scenes of carnage, with bodies of several men laying on the pavement next to a cafe.

Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road (Thomas van Hulle) / PA

A white man with black hair was seen being detained by police officers. The vehicle appears to have been rented from Pontaclun Van Hire, based in Wales.

Mehdi, a 38-year-old worshipper, said: There were loads of people coming out and the van took a left and went straight into them.

I saw four of five people one the floor. At least one person was stabbed.

The crowd caught a guy. He tried to do a London Bridge thing.

The police were there almost instantly, passing in a car by chance. People were coming out of the mosque and they just drove through them. They drove through the crowds for a distance of nine metres.

Another worshipper, who arrived five minutes after the van ploughed into the crowd said: There was a white van. It drove over innocent men and women simply trying to go home from the night prayers.

Then one of men came out and stabbed, I think two people got stabbed.

Hilary Briffa, who lives opposite the mosque, told the Standard: I heard a lot of yelling and people running, then loads of police cars and helicopters and fire engines started showing up. The response time was really impressive.

The police arent giving much information away but a van definitely hit people exiting Finsbury park mosque after prayers.

We think at least three people are seriously injured and a guy was arrested.

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A Met spokesman said officers were called at 12.20am to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians.

They added: Officers are on scene with other emergency services. There are a number of casualties being worked on at the scene. There has been one person arrested.

It came weeks after three Islamist terrorists rammed a van into pedestrians on London Bridge before rampaging through Borough Market with knives, killing eight people before being shot dead by police.

Pictures posted on social media show more than a dozen emergency vehicles near the UKCG Help Centre at the junction of Seven Sisters Road and the A503 Tollington Road.

London Ambulance Service deputy director of operations Kevin Bate said: "We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist response teams to the scene.

"An advance trauma team from London's Air Ambulance has also been dispatched by car.

"Our first priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure those in the most need are treated first and taken to hospital."

Cynthia Vanzella said on Twitter: "Horrible to watch police officers doing cardiac massage at people on the floor, desperately trying to save them. I just hope they did."

This story is being updated
W itnesses have told how a suspect shouted kill me, kill me and blew kisses from the back of a police van after he was pinned to the ground following an attack on worshippers near Finsbury Park mosque.

The suspect  a 48-year-old man  was tackled to the floor and detained by onlookers at the scene of the attack near to the north London mosque in the early hours of Monday.

Dozens of people had just finished prayers at the mosque when the vehicle veered into the crowd in Seven Sisters Road about 12.15am on Monday leaving one man dead and 10 injured.

Witnesses told the Standard the suspect shouted kill me, kill me as he was pinned down by onlookers before being arrested by police.

Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement () / Jeremy Selwyn

Others said they heard screaming and shouting and saw a crowd of people being flattened by the van.

One witness Sami Ali said: There was an elderly woman and a guy trapped under the car, everyone was just trying to help them.

"They grabbed the man and held him on the ground - he was shouting 'I did it I did it' and then 'kill me kill me' but they just held him down.

"And then when he got taken in the police van he was smiling and laughing."

A Finsbury Park local, who was breaking his fast at a cafe on Tollington Park Road at the time of the incident, said: "As he was held in a headlock he shouted 'kill me kill me, I've done my job."

Forensic investigators at the scene in Finsbury Park / PA

Another man, who did not wish to be named, was leaving the mosque when he saw the attack happen.

"I heard screaming and shouting. There was a lot of bodies on the ground, I saw a lot of people being flattened," he said.

"The guy that was killed was being given CPR on the side of the road before the ambulance arrived.

Police officers assist the injured at the scene / James Gourley/Rex Features

"And a friend of mine has been rushed to hospital with a suspected broken back and paralysis."

The worshipper told the Standard the man who was killed was a member of the areas Muslim community.

"I saw him indicate left, as though he was going to take the next road left, and the traffic gave way to him," he said.

Finsbury Park attack June 19 1 /33 Finsbury Park attack June 19 Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park James Gourley/Rex The suspect is pinned to the ground by brave members of the public Forensic investigators examine the van Jeremy Selwyn James Gourley/Rex Features Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away James Gourley/Rex Features Rescuers: Emergency services staff treat victims after a vehicle hit pedestrians in Finsbury Park Thomas van Hulle/PA Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road PA Response: An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Emergency service workers at Finsbury Park in north London Yui Mok/PA Fears: Police officers talk with local people at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Paramedics: Ambulances in Finsbury Park Jennifer Heape/PA Police on one of the cordons in north London Yui Mok/PA Patrol: Armed officers near Seven Sisters Road Yui Mok/PA Cordon: Police in Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA People scuffle near a police cordon near Finsbury Park EPA PA Muslims pray on the street NIGEL HOWARD  Armed Police at the scene in Seven Sisters Road Nigel Howard Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement Jeremy Selwyn Forensic investigators at Finsbury Park PA The suspect is put in the back of a police van after being restrained at the scene Police at the scene neat Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain Aerial view of forensics at the scene of Seven Sisters Road Jeremy Selwyn Flowers are left near the scene at Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain

"Then he mounted the pavement and just started driving into everybody.

A local who said he was a close friend of a man who held the suspect down said: "He jumped out the van and was running around in circles because he didn't know where to go.

"Then my friend held him down and he was shouting 'kill me, I've done my job'."

Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park (Yui Mok/PA Wire) / Yui Mok/PA

He added that the suspect, who was held down in a headlock as witnesses waited for emergency services to arrive, was "blowing kisses" from the police van as he was being taken away.

Abdulrahman Saleh Alamoudi said he was among a group of people helping an elderly worshipper who had fallen down, perhaps because of the heat, when the van swerved towards them.

He told BuzzFeed News: "This big van just came and went all over us. I think at least eight or 10 people got injured. Luckily I managed to escape. And then the guy came out of his van and I got him.

One dead, eight in hospital after man drives into crowd near North London mosque

"He was screaming, he was saying, 'I'm going to kill all Muslims, I'm going to kill all Muslims'. He was throwing punches.

"Then we managed to get him on the floor. Then he was saying, 'Kill me, kill me'. I said, 'We are not going to kill you. Why did you do that?' He wouldn't say anything."

Another witness, Abdikadar Warfa, said he helped to detain the suspect while his friends helped victims.

"I saw a man underneath the van. He was bleeding. My friend said he had to lift the van, I was busy with a man who tried to escape. My friend said he said some words, but I didn't hear it," he said.

"They [people who were hit] were mostly young. They are very bad. I tried to stop him [the suspect], some people were hitting him but I said stop him and keep him until the police came.

"He was trying to run away but people overpowered him. He was fighting to run away."

Mr Salah Alamoudi said he had also helped to hold the suspect on the ground for up to half an hour before police arrived.

"The guy, I had to keep him at least half an hour. He was a strong guy. A big man," he said.

"It was heartbreaking.

Scotland Yard said counter-terrorism officers are investigating the attack and that one man was pronounced dead at the scene. Eight of the injured people were taken to hospital, while two were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

The victims are believed to be Muslims who had been breaking fast at a cafe next to the mosque following late-night prayers observed during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Prime Minister Theresa May said it was being treated as "a potential terrorist attack" and that she would hold a Cobra committee emergency meeting later on Monday.

In a statement released shortly after 6am, London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the incident as a horrific terrorist attack and said extra police would be deployed to protect the capitals Muslim communities observing Ramadan.

Any witnesses, or anyone with any information, can contact police via 101, or via Twitter @MetCC. To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
O ne man died and ten others were injured after a van driver screaming I want to kill all Muslims ploughed into worshippers in a terror attack near to Finsbury Park mosque.

Witnesses told how the suspect shouted kill me, kill me and blew kisses from the back of a police van after he was pinned to the ground and arrested following the attack in the early hours of Monday.

The 48-year-old suspect was tackled to the floor and detained by onlookers after the vehicle veered into a crowd of worshippers who had just finished prayers at the mosque in Seven Sisters Road.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu confirmed the attack on worshippers was being treated as terrorism. Theresa May said that an early assessment by police suggested the attacker "acted alone".

The crashed van and a forensics tent near the mosque in Finsbury Park / Jeremy Selwyn

In an statement outside Scotland Yard on Monday morning, Mr Basu said the attack unfolded as a man was receiving first aid from the public and that he died at the scene.

Police statement on terror attack in Finsbury Park

Eight other people were taken to hospital, at least two of them with very serious injuries, Mr Basu said.

He said: "The attack unfolded whilst a man was receiving first aid from the public at the scene; sadly, he has died.

Finsbury Park attack June 19 1 /33 Finsbury Park attack June 19 Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park James Gourley/Rex The suspect is pinned to the ground by brave members of the public Forensic investigators examine the van Jeremy Selwyn James Gourley/Rex Features Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away James Gourley/Rex Features Rescuers: Emergency services staff treat victims after a vehicle hit pedestrians in Finsbury Park Thomas van Hulle/PA Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road PA Response: An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Emergency service workers at Finsbury Park in north London Yui Mok/PA Fears: Police officers talk with local people at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Paramedics: Ambulances in Finsbury Park Jennifer Heape/PA Police on one of the cordons in north London Yui Mok/PA Patrol: Armed officers near Seven Sisters Road Yui Mok/PA Cordon: Police in Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA People scuffle near a police cordon near Finsbury Park EPA PA Muslims pray on the street NIGEL HOWARD  Armed Police at the scene in Seven Sisters Road Nigel Howard Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement Jeremy Selwyn Forensic investigators at Finsbury Park PA The suspect is put in the back of a police van after being restrained at the scene Police at the scene neat Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain Aerial view of forensics at the scene of Seven Sisters Road Jeremy Selwyn Flowers are left near the scene at Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain

"Any causative link between his death and the attack will form part of our investigation.

"It is too early to state if his death was as a result of the attack."

Eyewitness accounts of Finsbury Park terror attackk

He added: This is being treated as a terrorist attack.

Moment the Finsbury Park mosque attacker is arrested

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was visibly distraught at he visited the scene of the terror attack in his own constituency.

The attacker struck at 12.15am as the area was busy with worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers at the mosque.

Video footage showed the suspect being pinned to the ground by brave members of the public before he was arrested by police.

Witnesses said the suspect was protected by an imam after some of the bystanders began beating him on the ground.

Mr Basu said the inside of the van has been investigated and that nothing was found that posed a further risk to public safety. Officers believe the attacker acted alone.

He added that no-one suffered stab injuries during the attack amid early reports a knifeman was spotted in the van.

Finsbury Park attack suspect pinned to the ground

Witness Sami Ali told the Standard: There was an elderly woman and a guy trapped under the car, everyone was just trying to help them.

"They grabbed the man and held him on the ground - he was shouting 'kill me kill me' but they just held him down.

Another man, who did not wish to be named, was leaving the mosque when he saw the attack happen.

He said: "I heard screaming and shouting. There was a lot of bodies on the ground, I saw a lot of people being flattened.

A witness, who wanted to be identified as Abdulrahman, which is not his real name, said he managed to get the driver of the van.

"He wanted to run away and was saying: 'I want to kill Muslims.'

"So he came back to the main road and I managed to get him to the ground and me and some other guys managed to hold him until the police arrived, for about 20 minutes I think, until the police arrived."

Abdulrahman claimed the driver said: 'Kill me', as he was being held.

Mr Basu praised the restraint of the incredibly shaken, incredibly scared and incredibly angry members of the public who tackled the man.

A map of Finsbury Park and the location of the attack

He added: It seems to me at the time he was very quickly and calmly given over to the police and put into custody.

As Ive said I think that restraint was commendable by members of the community who must have been incredibly shaken, incredibly scared and incredibly angry.

Id like to thank them, what it proves to me is that Londoners will act together to protect themselves, but they will do so in a way that doesnt feed into terrorists and extremists hands.

The attack is the second terrorist incident to hit the capitals streets in just over two weeks, with eight people killed in the London Bridge atrocity on June 3.

Forensics work at the scene of the attack / PA

London Mayor Sadiq Khan told Sky News: "All of these are attacks on out shared values of freedom, of tolerance and of respect. Terrorism is terrorism, whether someone is inspired by an Islamist narrative or other forms of 'inspiration'.

"We're a great city, we can't allow these terrorists who fuel division to change our lives."

Prime Minister Theresa May has announced she will hold a Cobra committee emergency meeting later on Monday.

Mr Basu added: This has been an incredibly challenging time for London and the emergency services are stretched, Nevertheless we will all do absolutely everything we can with our partners to protect Londoners and our city.

Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement / Jeremy Selwyn

Now is the time once again for Londoners to stand together to face those who seek to divide us."

Other videos posted online of the aftermath of Monday's attack showed a scene of chaos as people tried to help the injured.

One man could been seen giving CPR to a victim in the street, while another man's head injury was treated with a makeshift dressing.

The Muslim Council of Britain has condemned the incident as 'the most violent manifestation' yet of Islamophobia.

Extra security is being stationed at mosques across the capital.

Any witnesses, or anyone with any information, can contact police via 101, or via Twitter @MetCC. To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.
A man was shot and stabbed near an east London Muslim community centre before staggering into the building for help.

Police descended on Eton Road in Ilford at around 2pm after reports someone had been seen brandishing a knife.

Officers found a man at the centre suffering from gunshot and stab wounds.

Photos from the scene showed a large cordon surrounding Ilford Community Centre, where the wounded man had run for help.

The building is the home of the League of British Muslims, a group working to improve community relations.

Scotland Yard said the man had been rushed to hospital but his injuries were not thought to be life-threatening.

Police also stressed the incident was not thought to be terrorist or gang-related and it was not being treated as a hate crime

A spokesman for the Met said: Police in Redbridge are dealing after a man was shot and stabbed.

Officers were called at 2.02pm on Monday, 19 June, to Eton Road, Ilford, to reports a man armed with a knife.

Attending officers found a man in a residential address suffering from stab and gunshot wounds.

He was taken to an east London hospital where his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

The injured man and his attacker are thought to be known to each other, police said.
S hocked Muslims leaving prayers rushed to help when a bleeding man who had been shot and stabbed ran into a mosque saying he had been attacked.

The victim, described as a clean-shaven Sikh man, staggered into the Ilford Community Centre on Eton Road just before 2pm on Monday, bleeding from his shoulder.

Those at the centre called for an ambulance and police to help the wounded man.

Bashir Chaudhry, chairman of the mosque, said some people feared another terror attack had taekn place after people were mowed down early on Monday morning outside a mosque in Finsbury Park.

But he said worshippers reacted calmly to the situation.

He told the Standard: "Someone walked into the centre and he was bleeding very badly.

"When I spoke to him he said 'I've been attacked'.

"I immediately called the police and ambulance. It's what anyone else would have done."

Mr Chaudhry said the man then left the centre and he followed him out to a nearby house and waited for emergency services to arrive.

Police: A probe is underway / Noreen Qayyum

"I tried to help him," he said. "At that time people were leaving the mosque and they saw him and he was very badly hurt.

"He was bleeding from the back of his neck and his shoulder and from his face."

"Some people misunderstood what had happened," he said. "They thought somebody had attacked the worshippers, that the mosque had been attacked, which is not right."

"With what's been going on in Finsbury Park and other places, people are concerned really."

A spokesman for the Met said: Police in Redbridge are dealing after a man was shot and stabbed.

Officers were called at 2.02pm on Monday, 19 June, to Eton Road, Ilford, to reports a man armed with a knife.

Attending officers found a man in a residential address suffering from stab and gunshot wounds.

He was taken to an east London hospital where his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Police said there had been no arrests so far and the incident is not being treated as terror-related.

It is believed the victim knew his attack, police said.
P olice have charged more than 2,700 people with possessing knives in the capital in the past year, Scotland Yard said today.

The figure was revealed as the Met launched a new crackdown on criminals and gangs carrying knives in London.

Officers will conduct weapon sweeps and operations to confiscate knives and target hundreds of known knife carriers.

The Met said that since May last year, a total of 2,709 individuals had been charged with possessing knives  about 85 per cent of the number arrested for the offence.

A total of 474 people were given cautions for possession. Police did not give further details of why they were not charged.

Police also released an image of a so-called zombie knife, a type of weapon which is now banned from sale, which was seized in Lambeth.

Last month, police launched a 100-strong taskforce to combat a 24 per cent increase in knife crime in London over the 12 months to April. Specialist squads were deployed to outbreaks of violence.

This week, in the latest phase of the Operation Sceptre initiative, the taskforce, a mix of detectives and uniform officers, will be out in force in areas with high rates of weapon attacks.

Acting Detective Chief Superintendent Sean Yates, the deputy head of Operation Sceptre, said: We need to change attitudes to carrying knives and are encouraging key people in positions of influence to drive this messaging forward.

The introduction of the taskforce, working closely with boroughs, allows us to create a more co-ordinated and consistent approach to reducing knife crime by carrying out intense weapon sweeps, intelligence-led stop and search and tackling those offenders who are wanted in connection with knife-related offences and violent crime.

"This type of activity is essential and has a real impact; however it will only ever be part of the solution.

He added: We are starting to see a mobilisation from the community against knife crime and we need this to continue.

Earlier phases of the operation led to the seizure of 29 knives, one electric shock baton, knuckle-dusters, ammonia spray and one firearm.

City of London and British Transport Police will also be taking part in Operation Sceptre for the first time this week.
A man was pinned to the ground by police officers and arrested on suspicion of public disorder and carrying a weapon outside a busy central London station.

Dramatic images from the scene showed a man being restrained by police outside Paddington station on Monday.

The man was pinned down by three officers in the middle of the busy road as passers-by looked on in London Street.

A crowd of people continued to watch as the man was led away by police shortly after 12.30pm.

Officers were scrambled to the scene near to the junction with Praed Street following reports of a man acting suspiciously.

He was arrested on suspicion of public disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

A British Transport Police spokeswoman added: The man has been taken to a place of safety. The incident is not being treated as terror related.
D octors have been told to continue providing life-support treatment to terminally ill baby Charlie Gard for another three weeks.

The extension has been ordered to give judges in the European Court of Human Rights time to analyse the boys case.

Chris Gard and Connie Yates want 10-month-old Charlie, who suffers from a rare genetic condition and has brain damage, to undergo a therapy trial in the US.

Specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, where Charlie is being cared for, say therapy proposed by a doctor in the US is experimental and will not help.

They say life support treatment should stop.

Treatment: Charlie and his parents / PA

Charlie's parents hope judges in the European Court of Human Rights, in Strasbourg, France, will come to their aid after losing battles in the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court in London.

Their lawyers on Monday filed detailed legal arguments and Strasbourg judges say they will treat Charlie's case with the "utmost urgency".

Supreme Court justices in London say Great Ormond Street specialists should keep providing life-support treatment until midnight on July 10.

Three justices had analysed issues relating to continued treatment, pending a decision by European court judges, at a hearing in London early on Monday.

A European Court of Human Rights spokeswoman said the case would get "priority".

"In light of the exceptional circumstances of this case, the court has already accorded it priority and will treat the application with the utmost urgency," she added.

"It is anticipated that as soon as the responsible chamber of the court is in a position to consider the application made on behalf of Charlie Gard and his parents an expedited timetable for the determination of this application will be established."
O ne man has been killed and ten people injured after a van ploughed into worshippers outside a mosque in Finsbury Park in what police are treating as a terrorist attack.

Dozens of worshippers were leaving the mosque when the van veered into crowds in Seven Sisters Road in the early hours of Monday.

Scotland Yard said eight people were taken to hospital, two of whom have been seriously hurt. Two were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

Police have confirmed that a 48-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the attack, which targeted Muslims who had finished prayers at the mosque.

Counter-terrorism officers are investigating.

Heres what we know so far.

What happened and where?

Police were called just after 12.20pm on Monday to reports of a vehicle striking pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road outside the Muslim Welfare House and near Finsbury Park Mosque.

Finsbury Park attack June 19 1 /33 Finsbury Park attack June 19 Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park James Gourley/Rex The suspect is pinned to the ground by brave members of the public Forensic investigators examine the van Jeremy Selwyn James Gourley/Rex Features Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away James Gourley/Rex Features Rescuers: Emergency services staff treat victims after a vehicle hit pedestrians in Finsbury Park Thomas van Hulle/PA Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road PA Response: An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Emergency service workers at Finsbury Park in north London Yui Mok/PA Fears: Police officers talk with local people at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Paramedics: Ambulances in Finsbury Park Jennifer Heape/PA Police on one of the cordons in north London Yui Mok/PA Patrol: Armed officers near Seven Sisters Road Yui Mok/PA Cordon: Police in Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA People scuffle near a police cordon near Finsbury Park EPA PA Muslims pray on the street NIGEL HOWARD  Armed Police at the scene in Seven Sisters Road Nigel Howard Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement Jeremy Selwyn Forensic investigators at Finsbury Park PA The suspect is put in the back of a police van after being restrained at the scene Police at the scene neat Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain Aerial view of forensics at the scene of Seven Sisters Road Jeremy Selwyn Flowers are left near the scene at Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain

Dozens of people had just finished prayers at Finsbury Park mosque when the vehicle veered into the crowd.

Finsbury Park is in north London, just over five miles from Westminster Bridge and London Bridge, where two previous terror attacks have rocked the capital in recent months.

Witnesses said a van struck pedestrians who were tending to an elderly man who had fallen down, perhaps because of the heat.

A map of Finsbury Park and the location of the attack

Others said they heard screaming and shouting and saw a crowd of people being flattened by the van.

The suspect

A 48-year-old man was detained by members of public at the scene and then arrested by police on suspicion of attempted murder.

No other suspects at the scene have been identified or reported to police, Scotland Yard said.

The van driver  a white man with black hair  was wrestled to the ground by bystanders, and police officers on patrol nearby were on the scene within seconds to arrest him.

Moment the Finsbury Park mosque attacker is arrested

Witnesses told the Standard he shouted kill me, kill me, I've done my job as he was pinned down by onlookers before the arrest was made.

It was said he blew kisses at the crowd once he was bundled inside a police van.

A Met Police spokesman said the suspect was taken to hospital as a precaution and will be taken into custody once discharged. He will also be subject of a mental health assessment, police said.

Claims that people were also attacked by a knife-wielding man have been dismissed by police, with a spokesman adding that there had been no reports of anyone suffering stab wounds.

The victims

The Met has confirmed that one man died following the incident, while a further 10 people were injured - two seriously.

The victims are believed to have been breaking fast at a cafe next to the mosque following late-night prayers observed during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

It is too soon to say if the man who was found dead was killed when the van hit pedestrians as he was already being given first aid by the public on the pavement, police said.

Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away / James Gourley/Rex Features

Eight people injured were taken to three separate hospitals, while two people were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Witnesses said they heard screaming and shouting and saw a crowd of people being flattened by the van.

One bystander Sami Ali said: There was an elderly woman and a guy trapped under the car, everyone was just trying to help them.

A worshipper, who asked not to be named, told the Standard the man who was killed was a member of the areas Muslim community.

How leaders responded

Prime Minister Theresa May described the attack as a terrible incident and that she would hold a Cobra committee emergency meeting later on Monday.

She added: "All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene."

Meanwhile Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he was totally shocked at the incident, adding: "My thoughts are with those and the community affected by this awful event."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the horrific terrorist attack and said extra police will be deployed to protect Muslim communities observing Ramadan.

The Muslim Council of Britain had called for extra security around mosques, as it described the attack as "the most violent manifestation" of Islamophobia.
M inisters were repeatedly warned that fire regulations were not keeping people in tower blocks safe, it has been claimed.

The BBC said leaked letters show ministers were warned people living in high rise blocks like Grenfell Tower were "at risk".

Twelve letters, sent by the All-Party Parliamentary Fire Safety and Rescue Group in the aftermath of a 2009 fatal fire in south London's Lakanal House warned the Government "could not afford to wait for another tragedy", according to Panorama.

The parliamentary group wrote in March 2014: "Surely ... when you already have credible evidence to justify updating ... the guidance ... which will lead to saving of lives, you don't need to wait another three years in addition to the two already spent since the research findings were updated, in order to take action?

"As there are estimated to be another 4,000 older tower blocks in the UK, without automatic sprinkler protection, can we really afford to wait for another tragedy to occur before we amend this weakness?"

Grenfell fire death toll climbs to 79

After further correspondence, then government minister Liberal Democrat Stephen Williams, replied: "I have neither seen nor heard anything that would suggest that consideration of these specific potential changes is urgent and I am not willing to disrupt the work of this department by asking that these matters are brought forward."

The group replied: "We're at a loss to understand, how you had concluded that credible and independent evidence which had life safety implications, was NOT considered to be urgent.

"As a consequence the group wishes to point out to you that should a major fire tragedy, with loss of life, occur between now and 2017, in for example, a residential care facility or a purpose built block of flats, where the matters which had been raised here, were found to be contributory to the outcome, then the group would be bound to bring this to others' attention."

Former cabinet minister Sir Eric Pickles received a letter about fire regulations from the parliamentary group in February 2014, according to the BBC.

In December 2015, the all-party group wrote to the former Conservative minister James Wharton, and warned about the risk of fires spreading on the outside of buildings with cladding.

"Today's buildings have a much higher content of readily-available combustible material. Examples are timber and polystyrene mixes in structure, cladding and insulation.

"This fire hazard results in many fires because adequate recommendations to developers simply do not exist. There is little or no requirement to mitigate external fire spread."

Former Conservative minister Gavin Barwell, who was recently appointed Prime Minister Theresa May's chief of staff, received further calls for action in September last year.

In November 2016 Mr Barwell replied to say his department had been looking at the regulations, and would make a statement "in due course".

In April 2017 Mr Barwell wrote to say he did "acknowledge that producing a statement on building regulations has taken longer than I had envisaged", according to the BBC.

Police announced on Monday that at least 79 people were believed to have died in last week's devastating Grenfell Tower blaze.

Theresa May has announced an inquiry will be held into the disaster.
L abour leader Jeremy Corbyn was visibly distraught as he visited the scene of a terrorist attack in his own constituency today.

Mr Corbyn visited the scene of the attack on Seven Sisters Road in north London, where one man was killed and 10 injured in the early hours of Monday.

He was pictured with his hands over his mouth when confronted with the horrific aftermath of the attack.

He also spoke with local residents to offer them reassurance.

Finsbury Park attack - the facts so far

Mr Corbyn had earlier posted an online statement speaking of his shock at the horrific and cruel attack and offering condolences to the victims friends and families.

He said he would be attending a prayer service at the nearby Finsbury Park Mosque later on Monday with the leader of Islington Council.

The suspected terror attacker was detained at the scene

His full statement read: "I am shocked by this horrific and cruel attack in Finsbury Park, which is being treated as an act of terror.

"I offer my condolences to the family and friends of the man who has died, and our thoughts are with the people who have been injured, their family and friends.

Theresa May arrives at the mosque in Finsbury Park / Jeremy Selwyn

As the local MP, I have met with Muslim community leaders at the Muslim Welfare House alongside Islington Council Leader Richard Watts, the councils Chief Executive Lesley Seary and the Metropolitan Police.

Richard and I will attend prayers at Finsbury Park mosque later today."

Jeremy Corbyn at the scene of the attack today / Jeremy Selwyn

He added: I appeal for people and the media to remain calm and respectful of those affected.

In the meantime, I call on everyone to stand together against those who week to divide us.

Jeremy Corbyn looked visibly upset as he visited the scene of the attack / Jeremy Selwyn

Meanwhile Theresa May vowed that "hatred and evil" of the kind seen in the attack will never succeed.

The Prime Minister spoke outside 10 Downing Street following a meeting with security officials and ministers in the Government's Cobra emergency committee in Whitehall.

The Labour leader said he was 'shocked by this horrific and cruel attack' / Jeremy Selwyn

She said the attack had "once again targeted the ordinary and the innocent going about their daily lives - this time, British Muslims as they left a mosque, having broken their fast and prayed together at this sacred time of year".

She added: "Today we come together, as we have done before, to condemn this act and to state once again that hatred and evil of this kind will never succeed."

Mrs May said that the attack on Muslims was "every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life" as the recent string of terror attacks apparently motivated by Islamist extremism, adding: "We will stop at nothing to defeat it."

Theresa May makes statement following Finsbury Park terror attack

Mrs May said police would continue to assess the security needs of mosques and would provide whatever additional resources were needed.

"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and, like all terrorism in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal. It seeks to drive us apart and to break the precious bonds of solidarity and citizenship which we share in this country," she said.

Prime Minister Theresa May speaking in Downing Street after a COBRA meeting / PA

"We will not let this happen. This morning we have seen a sickening attempt to destroy those freedoms and to break those bonds of citizenship that define our United Kingdom.

"It is a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms and our determination to tackle them must be the same whoever is responsible."

It comes after a van veered into a crowd of Muslims outside the Muslim Welfare House on Seven Sisters Road, down the road from Finsbury Park Mosque, at about 12.20am on Monday.

Scotland Yard said eight people were taken to hospital, two of whom have been seriously hurt. Two were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

Police have confirmed that a 48-year-old man, who was detained at the scene by bystanders, has been arrested in connection with the attack.
J eremy Corbyn urged the community to "stand together" as he addressed worshippers at Finsbury Park Mosque hours after a terror attack which left one man dead.

The Labour leader and Islington North MP was cheered as he arrived at the mosque, which is located down the road from where the attack happened.

Members of the public applauded as he went inside, while one man shouted: "We love you, Corbyn".

He had earlier visited the site of the horrific incident, and left the cordon surrounded by police before walking to the entrance of the mosque.

He told the community to stand together proud and said we are a community which is not going to be divided by vile acts of terror".

There was another loud applause when he finished speaking.

As Mr Corbyn spoke to worshippers at the mosque, Prime Minister Theresa May met with faith leaders from the community in another room.

She later emerged, with the representatives of different religions at her side, to talk to reporters.

Theresa May and Met Commissioner Cressida Dick talk to faith leaders, including Mohammed Kozbar, chair of the mosque (Stefan Rousseau/PA ) / Stefan Rousseau/PA

The Prime Minister was greeted with cries such as "have you got a faster taxi today?" and "how can you be so quick today?" from crowds outside as she left to get into a car back to Downing Street.

She had met faith leaders to discuss Monday's atrocity, where a man allegedly drove a van into a group of worshippers near the mosque.

It marks the latest difficult encounter for Mrs May in the wake of major disasters, with her response to last week's Grenfell Tower fire having been heavily criticised.

She said: "The terrible terrorist attack which took place last night was an evil borne out of hatred and it has devastated a community.

"I am pleased to have been here today to see the strength of that community coming together, all faiths united in one desire to see extremism and hatred of all sorts driven out of our society.

"There is no place for this hatred in our country today and we need to work together as one society, one community, to drive it out, this evil which is affecting so many families."
T heresa May condemned the terror attack near Finsbury Park Mosque as insidious and destructive as she vowed to stop at nothing in the battle against extremism.

Speaking outside Downing Street, Mrs May called the terror attack a targeting of the ordinary and the innocent and said "hatred and evil" would never succeed.

It came after one person was killed and ten others injured after a van driver allegedly screaming I want to kill all Muslims ploughed into worshippers near Finsbury Park mosque on Monday.

The Prime Minister pledged to review security at mosques across Britain in wake of the attack, with police presence already heightened at some London mosques.

Mrs May was speaking following a meeting with security officials and ministers in the Government's Cobra emergency committee in Whitehall.

Finsbury Park attack June 19 1 /33 Finsbury Park attack June 19 Treating the wounded: Paramedics and police at the scene of the crash in Finsbury Park James Gourley/Rex The suspect is pinned to the ground by brave members of the public Forensic investigators examine the van Jeremy Selwyn James Gourley/Rex Features Injured: Paramedics take one of the wounded away James Gourley/Rex Features Rescuers: Emergency services staff treat victims after a vehicle hit pedestrians in Finsbury Park Thomas van Hulle/PA Crash: The scene in Seven Sisters Road PA Response: An armed police officer mans a cordon on the Seven Sisters Road at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Shock: Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Emergency service workers at Finsbury Park in north London Yui Mok/PA Fears: Police officers talk with local people at Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA Paramedics: Ambulances in Finsbury Park Jennifer Heape/PA Police on one of the cordons in north London Yui Mok/PA Patrol: Armed officers near Seven Sisters Road Yui Mok/PA Cordon: Police in Finsbury Park Yui Mok/PA People scuffle near a police cordon near Finsbury Park EPA PA Muslims pray on the street NIGEL HOWARD  Armed Police at the scene in Seven Sisters Road Nigel Howard Finsbury Park attack: The scene at Seven Sisters Road where a van believed to be involved mounted the pavement Jeremy Selwyn Forensic investigators at Finsbury Park PA The suspect is put in the back of a police van after being restrained at the scene Police at the scene neat Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain Aerial view of forensics at the scene of Seven Sisters Road Jeremy Selwyn Flowers are left near the scene at Seven Sisters Road Chloe Chaplain

She said: This morning we have seen a sickening attempt to destroy those freedoms and to break those bonds of citizenship that define our United Kingdom.

There has been far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years and that means extremism of any kind, including Islamophobia.

The Prime Minister confirmed that that police investigating the attack believe the man who drove a van into worshippers outside acted alone.

Police statement on terror attack in Finsbury Park

She renewed her pledge to review the Governments counter terror strategy and create a new commission for countering extremism.

The attack is the second terrorist incident to hit the capitals streets in just over two weeks, with eight people killed in the London Bridge atrocity on June 3.

Mrs May added: This extremism is every bit as insidious and destructive to our values and our way of life. And we will stop at nothing to defeat it.

Todays attack falls at a difficult time in the life of this city, following on from the attack on London Bridge two weeks ago and of course to unimaginable tragedy of Grenfell Tower last week.

This is an extraordinary city of extraordinary people. It is home to a multitude of communities that together make London one of the greatest cities on earth  diverse, welcoming, vibrant compassionate, confident and determined never to give in to hate.

These are the values that define this city. These are the values that define this country. These are the values that this Government will uphold. These are the values that will prevail."

A man was tackled to the floor and detained by onlookers after the van veered into a crowd of worshippers who had just finished prayers at the mosque in Seven Sisters Road just after 12am on Monday.

A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Mrs May praised the bravery of the people who detained a man at the scene and said the heroism of people in the aftermath of attacks was a tribute to the spirit of the city.
T rade talks between the UK and European Union will not begin until October at the earliest in a blow to the Governments Brexit negotiations.

The Government had wanted the talks to take place in parallel with its current negotiations but has now accepted the timetable set out by the EU's chief negotiator Michel Barnier.

European Commission official Mr Barnier warned the UK faced "substantial" consequences as a result of Brexit but insisted it was "not about punishment" or revenge.

And in a reference to Prime Minister Theresa May's negotiating mantra, he said: "For both the European Union and the United Kingdom, a fair deal is possible and far better than no deal."

After the first day of the crucial negotiations which have the potential to shape the UK's economic and political future for a generation, it was agreed that working groups of officials would aim to make progress on the issues of citizens' rights, the UK's financial settlement - the so-called divorce bill - and other issues to do with separation.

The most senior officials on either side will lead work on efforts to resolve the problem of the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, a situation Mr Barnier acknowledged was "politically sensitive" at a time when the Tory government was seeking the support of the Democratic Unionist Party to prop up Mrs May's minority government.

Only when "sufficient, concrete progress" on the first phase has been made will Mr Barnier recommend to the European Council that the negotiations can enter the next stage, taking in the future trading relationship, with that recommendation possibly coming at October's summit of EU leaders.

After seven hours of talks in Brussels, David Davis - who had previously promised the "row of the summer" over the timetable for the negotiations - said he was optimistic about the talks.

Both sides acknowledged the clock was ticking, with the date for the UK's departure from the EU fixed for March 2019.

Mr Davis denied suggestions the agreed timetable showed Britain's "weakness" and insisted it is "completely consistent" with the Government's aim of parallel trade and exit talks.

David Davis - 'positive' Brexit negotiations underway

"It's not when it starts it's how it finishes that matters," he said.

"The UK has been crystal clear in our approach to the negotiations, the withdrawal process cannot be concluded without the future relationship also being taken into account.

"They should be agreed alongside each other, this is completely consistent with the Council's guidelines which state nothing is agreed until everything is agreed."

Mr Davis also brushed off the idea Britain's negotiating stance could change given political instability in the UK.

The Brexit Secretary said: "The position hasn't changed, we have the Lancaster House speech, the two white papers, and the Article 50 letter, all backed up by a manifesto too.

"So it's the same as it was before."

Asked if he had given any ground to Britain, Mr Barnier said: "I am not in a frame of mind to make concessions, or ask for concessions.

"It's not about punishment, it is not about revenge.

"Basically, we are implementing the decision taken by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, and unravel 43 years of patiently-built relations.

"I will do all I can to put emotion to one side and stick to the facts, the figures, and the legal basis, and work with the United Kingdom to find an agreement in that frame of mind."

He added: "The United Kingdom has decided to leave the European Union, it is not the other way around.

"The United Kingdom is going to leave the European Union, single market and the customs union, not the other way around.

"So, we each have to assume our responsibility and the consequences of our decisions.

"And the consequences are substantial."

In a sign of the progress that has been made, Mr Davis said the Prime Minister would brief fellow EU leaders at a summit on Thursday on the UK's approach to the rights of expatriate citizens, which will be set out in detail in a paper on Monday.

Mr Davis also acknowledged he "very sensitive" issue of the Irish border may not be resolved until near the end of the Brexit talks

The Brexit Secretary said it could take "until the end of the process" to resolve the issue, because it will be tied in with the trade and customs deals the UK is able to strike with Brussels.

Both the UK and EU are determined to avoid the return of a hard border between Northern Ireland the Republic of Ireland or anything that could undermine the Good Friday Agreement.

Mr Davis said: "We discussed two aspects of it. One of course is the political sensitivities which everybody understands.

"The other is the determination to maintain an, as near as possible, invisible border so we do not undermine the peace process, do not provide any cause for concern in Northern Ireland.

"This is a technically difficult issue but it is one which I am certain is soluble, although it will probably take us until the end of the process when we have already decided what our customs and free trade arrangements are."

Mr Barnier, who was a senior EU official involved in the peace process, acknowledged that "this is one of the most sensitive issues before us" and there was an "awful lot of work to do".

The situation could be complicated by the potential deal between Theresa May's Tories and the Democratic Unionist Party as she seeks support for her minority administration in Westminster.

Mr Barnier said: "There is a very, very sensitive political dimension to this.

"The new Northern Irish executive needs to be set up in a few days' time, at the same time we have a new government and a new Taoiseach in Dublin and of course there are the ongoing political discussion in London which we are also following closely."

He said the EU wanted to "preserve all the dimensions and commitments of the Good Friday Agreement" and maintain the UK-Ireland common travel area.

"The other problem in parallel with that is that without creating a new hard border, at the same time we have to come up with solutions - especially for goods and services - but in a way that is compliant with the normal rules and integrity of the internal market.

"So we have got a very sensitive political context, a very clear objective which is to preserve all the dimensions of the Good Friday Agreement and we have an awful lot of work to do - bilaterally, and also in coordination with the Dublin government on my side, so that we come up with imaginative and concrete solutions along the lines I have described, particularly taking into account the single market."

A special dialogue involving senior negotiators from each side has been set up to consider the issue, with Mr Davis' senior mandarin Olly Robbins holding talks with Mr Barnier's deputy Sabine Weyand on the issue.

Additional reporting by the Press Association.
D avid Davis offered an olive branch to European Union leaders as Brexit talks finally got under way in Brussels today, saying: Theres more that unites us than divides us.

In an opening statement that contrasted with Theresa Mays bellicose threats to leave with no deal, he hinted that the UK was prepared to make compromises in some areas.

We are starting this negotiation in a positive and constructive tone, determined to build a strong and special partnership between ourselves and our European allies and friends for the future, he said.

The Brexit Secretary stood with Michel Barnier, the chief negotiator for the European Union, as they arrived together at the European Commission headquarters.

Britain has already made concessions by agreeing to the EU proposals to sequence the talks, by postponing trade discussions until broad agreement is reached on a cash divorce settlement, the Northern Ireland border and the rights of EU citizens in the UK.

David Davis (C) at the start of a meeting over 'Brexit' negociations at EU Commission in Brussels, Belgium / EPA

Mr Davis is said to be working closely with Chancellor Philip Hammond, who is pressing for long transition times to protect the economy from a Brexit shock.

Mr Davis referred to shared shock over the mosque attack in London and sorrow at lives lost in the forest fires in Portugal. He said: Its at testing times like these that we are reminded of the values and resolve we share with our closest allies in Europe. Theres more that unites us than divides us.

So while there will undoubtedly be challenging times ahead of us in the negotiations, we will do all that we can to ensure we deliver a deal that works in the best interests of all citizens.

Mr Barnier made clear that Brussels intends to stick to its timetable of refusing to discuss Britains hopes of a trade agreement until its own priorities have been dealt with.

Today, we are launching the negotiations and orderly withdrawal of the UK from the EU, he said. Our objective is clear; we must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, first for citizens but also for the beneficiaries of EU policies, and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland.

Mr Hammond will promise to be a voice of business at Brexit talks when he delivers tomorrows delayed Mansion House address. Allies of the Chancellor said he will admit the Government has given too little emphasis so far to the needs of business, including the UKs 71 billion financial sector.

Mr Hammond was outspoken in interviews yesterday, saying that leaving without a Brexit deal  which the Prime Minister was prepared to do  would be very, very bad for the country.

But he will disappoint firms hoping he will lay down a detailed soft Brexit plan in his annual Mansion House speech to the City. Instead, he will stress the importance of a pragmatic approach to negotiating transition periods and avoiding a cliff edge.
D aniel Mays has praised Idris Elba for giving young black actors a fair crack at the whip both in front of, and behind the camera, on their latest TV series.

The actors appear in Guerrilla, about the Black Power Movement in Seventies London, and Elba was also an executive producer.

Speaking to the Standard he said: The great thing about Guerrilla is that Idris, along with [co-director] John Ridley, wanted to have lots of black faces represented in front of the screen. But behind the scenes from runners to costumes it was also littered full of people of colour. It felt unlike any production Ive worked on before.

The series has been accused of under representing black women  something Mays disputes.

Fighting talk: Idris Elba as Kent in Guerrilla

Idris really gave opportunities to young black women who will now go forward and work in the industry, he said. Hes started their careers for them and I commend him for that.

[The industry] is predominantly white. Young black actors in this country dont get a fair crack at the whip and they also dont get equal opportunities which is why you find so many of these actors, Idris was one of them, getting their breaks in America.

In character: Daniel Mays as Cullen alongside Rory Kinnear as Pence

Essex-born Mays, who was brought up by his electrician father and bank cashier mother, also called for a better representation of the working class on screen.

He said: My grievance is we need to have authentic working class writers and directors coming through that will enable us to tell stories about the underclass. Mike Leigh and Ken Loach are veterans of that, but they wont be around forever. There might be a sea change happening. Its a hotbed of political change at the moment.

Mays said the Grenfell Tower fire was a prime example of the poor people of this country being forgotten.

He said: Theres an underlying anger that people are starting to feel now. Thats why youve got all of these people voting for Labour, I know I certainly did, because there is a complete imbalance [and] people feel hopeless.

The biggest and best TV shows of 2017 1 /13 The biggest and best TV shows of 2017 Doctor Who The classic sci-fi show got a new lease of life with new companion Bill Potts BBC Line of Duty The BBC's acclaimed crime drama moved up to BBC One with more twists than ever before World Productions / BBC / Aidan Monaghan Broadchurch Chris Chibnall's mystery drama came to a close with a compelling final series ITV The Moorside Sheridan Smith puts in a stellar performance as she returns to TV in the BBC's Shannon Matthews drama Stuart Wood/ITV/BBC Apple Tree Yard Emily Watson starred in the BBC's gripping psychological thriller BBC/Kudos/Nick Briggs Fortitude, Series 2 Sky Atlantic's original Nordic noir-inspired chiller is back for more bloody mysteries Sky Atlantic Sherlock, Series 4 Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman return as Holmes and Watson in the BBC's mega hit PA Taboo Tom Hardy's dark thriller is unlike any period drama you've seen before FX Networks No Offence, Series 2 Paul Abbott's comedy-drama continues to walk a tonal tightrope with total ease Channel 4/Ian Derry The Voice A move to ITV has given singing contest The Voice a new lease of life ITV

Guerrilla will be available on DVD and Blu-ray from June 19.
M adonna has hit out at ex-husband Guy Ritchie, claiming that she is the mommy and the daddy to their children.

The pop superstar, 58, took a swipe at the English film director in an Instagram post on Fathers Day, saying that she should also be celebrated.

And Happy Father. Day to Me too because lets face it ,,..,,,,, Im the Mommy and the Daddy (sic), she wrote underneath a photo of herself with her children.

The former couple, who divorced in 2008, are biological parents to 16-year-old Rocco and adopted 11-year-old David Banda together before their split.

Madonna adopted daughter Mercy James just one year later and adopted twin sisters from Malawi earlier this year.

Last year Madonna and Ritchie were embroiled in a custody battle over Rocco, with a New York judge eventually ruling on Ritchies favour.

Parents: Madonna and Guy Ritchie with Rocco back in 2000 (Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images) / AFP/Getty Images

The dispute arose back in December 2015 when Rocco moved to London to live with father and ignored a court order to return to his mother in New York.

Madonna - In pictures 1 /82 Madonna - In pictures Madonna on the cover of her 'Like a Virgin' hit album in 1982 Madonna performs 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina' from the Oscar nominated movie 'Evita' during the 69th Academy Awards in 1997 Getty Images Madonna looks down at her son Rocco held by Guy Ritchie as they leave Dornoch Cathedral on 21st December 2000. The couple christened their four-month-old son, Rocco one day ahead of their wedding in nearby Skibo Castle AFP/Getty Images Madonna stumbles and falls during her performance at the BRIT Awards in 2015 Toby Melville/Reuters 1984 Madonna poses at the MTV Video Music Awards AP 1985 Madonna on the cover of Playboy Magazine Playboy Desperately Seeking Susan with Mark Blum Rex Features 1985 Rosanna Arquette and Madonna star in 'Desperately Seeking Susan' Rex 1986 Madonna with Sean Penn Getty Images 1987 Madonna features on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine 1987 Madonna stars in 'Who's that Girl?' 1987 Madonna performs on stage as part of her 'Who's That Girl World Tour' at Roundhay Park, Leeds PA 1987 Madonna performs at a one-off concert in Sceaux, a suburb south of Paris AFP/Getty Images 1989 Madonna's 'Like A Prayer' video PA 1990 Madonna stars with Warren Beatty in 'Dick Tracy' 1990 Madonna 'Blonde Ambition' tour at Wembley Stadium, London wearing her famous gold corset Rex 1991 Madonna Performing at the Oscar Ceremony singing 'Sooner or later' from the film 'Dick Tracy' which won the Oscar for 'Best Original Song' 1992 Madonna in 'A League of their Own' 1993 Madonna performs during her 'Girlie Show in Bercy Omnisport Palace, Paris AFP/Getty Images 1995 Madonna. at BRIT Awards PA 1996 Madonna accepts a lifetime achievement award at the Billboard Music Awards AFP/Getty Images 1997 Madonna with Director Alan Parker during shottong for 'Evita' Getty Images 1998 Elton John and Madonna perform during the ninth annual Rainforest Benefit Concert in New York's Carnegie Hall Reuters 1999 Madonna and Rupert Everett arrive at the Statue of Liberty in New York for the 'Talk Magazine' launch party AFP/Getty Images 1999 Madonna receives the Grammy for the Best Pop Album of the Year at the 41st Grammy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles AFP/Getty Images 2000 American singer Madonna with the Best Female award at the MTV Europe Music Awards held at the Globe Arena in Stockholm PA 2002 Madonna portrays a fencing instructor in 'Die Another Day' 2002 Madonna meets The Queen at the premiere of 'Die Another Day' at the Royal Albert Hall AP 2003 Madonna kisses Britney Spears at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York Getty Images 2003 Madonna kisses Christina Aguilera at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York AFP/Getty Images 2004 Madonna's 'The re-Invention Tour' Reuters 2005 Madonna performs on stage at the 12th annual MTV Europe Music Awards in Lisobon, Portugal Getty Images 2005 Madoona shhoting a scene from the set of her 'Hung Up' video PA 2006 Madonna poses with the award for International Female Solo Artist at The Brit Awards Getty Images 2006 Madonna performs the opening number during the 48th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles Reuters 2006 Madonna continues to perform to a sold out crowd in her third night at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Her tour is named 'Confessions On The Dance Floor' Splash News 2007 Madonna, her husband and British Film Director Guy Ritchie and children, Rocco and Lourdes arrive at the British Premiere of animated film "Arthur and the Invisibles". Madonna provided the voice for one of the film's characters AFP/Getty Images 2007 Madonna holds her son David Banda in her arms as she poses for photographers with her daughter Lourdes, at the Home of Hope orphanage in Mchinji, Malawi AP 2008 Madonna performs at the MGM Grand Garden Arena November in Las Vegas, Nevada Getty Images 2009 Gallery workers putting the finishing touches to the Madonna Nudes 30th Anniversary Exhibition PA 2009 Lady Gaga and Madonna in a sketch for Saturday Night Live Splash News 2009 Madonna out and about with Jesus Luz in New York Getty Images 2009 Madonna visiting the ancient Roman-era city carved out in red stone of Petra, south of Jordan, AP 2009 Madonna walks with her adopted children, David and Mercy at the Mphandula Child Care Centre, about 47 km (29 miles) west of Lilongwe, Reuters 2012 Madonna performs during the halftime show in the NFL Super Bowl XLVI football game in Indianapolis, Indiana Reuters 2014 Madonna arrives at the 56th annual Grammy Awards wearing a mouth grill Reuters 2014 Madonna performs with Miley Cyrus in a special duet for 'MTV Unplugged' AP 2014 Madonna and son David Banda Mwale Ciccone Ritchie attend the 56th Grammy Awards Getty Images 2015 Madonna and Taylor Swift perform during the iHeartRadio Music Awards in Los Angeles, California Getty Images 2015 Madonna kisses Drake kiss during Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, California Getty Images 2015 Madonna performs at the BRIT Awards Dave Benett 2015 Madonna attending The 57th Annual Grammy Awards Getty Images 2016 Madonna attends the "Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age Of Technology" Costume Institute Gala at Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York Getty Images 2016 Madonna and Kate Moss attend Edward Enninful's OBE dinner at Mark's Club in London Dave Benett 2016 Madonna performs a tribute to Prince during the 2016 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada Getty Images 2016 Madonna performs 'Vogue' on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden The Late Late Show 2017 Madonna on stage during the Women's March rally in Washington AP 2017 'Overjoyed': Madonna with her new daughters Madonna 2017 Kylie Jenner and Madonna attend the Philipp Plein collection during, New York Fashion Week: The Shows at New York Public Library Getty Images 2018 Madonna shares an image of herself on Instagram with the word Love on her right hand Madonna 2018 Madonna attends the Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City Getty Images Madonna is reflecting on the state of the world during Coronavirus @madonna

A court ruled that Rocco should return to New York, but did not issue a warrant to enforce the order, insisting that the former couple should resolve the matter between themselves.

Despite the courts final ruling that the teenager should continue to live in London with his father, he now splits his time between the two countries.
S amuel L Jackson says he made claims about black British actors being cheaper than their American counterparts because he is a feather ruffler.

The actor, 68, caused controversy with his comments about the casting of British actor Daniel Kaluuya in Get Out. He said in March: Theyre cheaper than us for a start. And [directors] think theyre better than us because theyre classically trained.

Other actors hit back, with Ruth Negga saying: I really dont think someone  would employ me just because Im cheaper than someone else.

Jackson later backtracked, and has now told the Standard: The British actors are cheaper statement was a poor effort at levity and highly insensitive on my part. Firstly, I have no knowledge of anyones price quotes but my own and I have no animus towards actors from any country doing any job.

Samuel L Jackson among big winners at Bafta's Britannia Awards

Ive been fortunate to work in many countries and quite a bit in the UK too  I have met and worked with immensely talented people that more than deserve that coveted shot in Hollywood.

Im a bit of a feather ruffler at times and I wondered something out loud that wasnt intended to be a social commentary, and probably should have just remained a question in my mind.

Jackson was speaking as his charity One For The Boys celebrated its fourth year.

It raises awareness among men about health risks such as testicular and prostate cancer and recently held a pop-up at Canary Wharf, The Waiting Room, for men to receive checks.
G ood Morning Britain viewers were witness to a Piers Morgan strop after he failed to realise that his microphone was on.

The TV star, 52, suffered an on air meltdown over a technical blunder with his ear piece on Monday mornings show.

Morgan could be heard shouting to producers to sort out his equipment as the show came back on air after a weather break  but was unaware that viewers could hear him.

Clearly frustrated, he said: I still cant hear anyone in my b***** ear. I dont know what is going on with this. Its been going on for a week now.

Frustrated: Piers Morgan couldn't hear through his ear piece / Ken McKay/ITV/Rex

He continued: Can someone talk to me? Im not hearing anyone. Theres no one there.

He was finally made aware that he was live on air, and reined it in as he began reading from an autocue as aerial footage of the Finsbury Park terror attack was shown on screen.

The gaffe didnt go unnoticed by viewers who delighted in pointing out the blunder and deeming Morgan an a***.

One viewer tweeted: Piers Morgan has lost it this morning. Watching GMB is actually amusing.

A second posted: Think someone needs to sort Piers's earpiece out!

Heated: Piers Morgan with Susanna Reid and Michael Gove / ITV

Others scolded his tone and language with one tweeting: Piers Morgan displaying his total lack of dignity, swearing into his mike, why is he allowed on air? #nopiersplease.

Another wrote: @GMB not impressed to hear @piersmorgan swearing about technical issues over footage of the mosque attack.

The confusion came minutes after he clashed with Michael Gove over the treatment of Grenfell Tower fire victims.

Morgan said grief-stricken residents have been fobbed off by the authorities to which Gove told Morgan to not act theatrical.

Morgan hit back: You can stick your coolness where the sun don't shine.

I don't feel cool about this. I feel very angry about these people. I feel angry about the other people who are now living in terror in other tower blocks, scared that this may happen to their tower blocks.

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Good Morning Britain is on ITV, weekdays at 6am.
Filly favourites Rose Run Sydney and Gabbysloosechange each captured their respective $40,000 Ohio Sires Stakes contests on Saturday night, June 17 at Northfield Park in round two of the four-leg series for Buckeye-bred sophomores.

Rose Run Sydney, a daughter of Triumphant Caviar out of the Angus Hall mare Stonebridge Dancer, scored a near wire-to-wire performance in the first OHSS division with Jason Brewer at the lines as the 3-5 publics choice.

Conditioned by co-owner Steve Carter for Adam Friedland, Brooklyn, NY and Rbr Racing LLC, Ashland, OH, Rose Run Sydney grabbed the lead going to the :56.4 half-mile marker and never looked back, rolling to victory in a lifetime best 1:55.3 clocking. She finished a comfortable four lengths in front of 4-1 Bamaslastchance (Aaron Merriman), with 17-1 Away My Baby (Jason Thompson) notching show honours.

The victory gave the filly -- who was bred by the Rose Run Farm of Sugarcreek, OH -- a perfect two-for-two in OHSS competition, as she had captured Leg One on May 1 at Miami Valley Raceway in 1:58.1.

Rose Run Sydney upped her career earnings to $157,067 lifetime from 11 wins, four seconds and two thirds in 18 career starts.

Trainer Chris Beaver and co-owner Johanna Beavers Gabbysloosechange won her OHSS division in similar style to the aforementioned Rose Run Sydney, taking control of the race at the :57.1 half, and scoring her fourth lifetime win in 1:54.4 for driver Jason Thompson.

The 2-1 homebred Credit Winner lass -- who was unraced as a freshman -- finished 1-1/4 lengths in front of her hard-trying, 1-2 stablemate, Chim Swift (Aaron Merriman), with 25-1 Vatanna (Jason Brewer) getting up for third.

Gabbysloosechance now has four wins and $48,500 in career earnings from just six lifetime starts. She won her Leg One OHSS division at Miami Valley in 1:57.2 on May 1.

Ohio Sires Stakes continue on Monday, June 19 with three-year-old trotting colts in the spotlight in a Scioto Downs matinee program. Post time is 2:00 p.m., ET.

(with files from OSDF)
The Directorate for Organised Crime and Terror Investigation (DIICOT) and anti-organised crime police are conducting on Monday 25 home searches in the counties of Iasi, Neamt and Prahova to dismantle a child trafficking ring; the Paris Judicial Police Directorate concomitantly unfolds a large scale action to track members of the same ring.

The investigation is targeted against roughly 120 persons residing in Romania and France, of whom more than 70 are minors aged between 10 and 13, DIICOT said in a release.

Evidence showed that a criminal group specializing in child trafficking was acting in the eastern cities of Iasi and Roman. The members of the group exploited their own children aged between 10 and 13, forcing them into pocket or purse picking, or shoplifting. The minors' parents led a parasitic living off the constant theft proceeds of their children. The members of the criminal group exploited their minor children both in Iasi and in Paris, the release said.

The children were trained in Iasi and then taken to Paris in several Roma camps, from where their own parents were guiding them into criminal activities. Apart from having the way of action and stolen objects' hiding places set by their parents, the children also had daily target amounts to accomplish. DIICOT requested information from the French authorities in 2016 and a joint investigation task force was set up to collect evidence on the respective criminal activities. The entire investigation had logistic and financial support from EUROJUST.

agerpres.
ATR, the world's leading manufacturer of turboprop aircraft, and Shaanxi Tianju Investment Group (Tianju) have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the purchase of 10 ATR 42-600s to develop commuter service in Xinjiang, China. The first deliveries are expected to start as soon as possible in 2018.

There is significant potential to develop commuter services in China and to improve connectivity between smaller towns at the lowest operating costs. This is a key priority of the Chinese government, which has a new focus in the development of regional and general aviation in order to increase quick and efficient access to smaller areas across the country.

Mr. Yang Qiang, Chairman of Tianju Group said, "In responding to the Chinese governments strong intention to promote the General Aviation market, Tianju has made an intensive market study and identified Xinjiang as the ideal location to develop commuter service under General Aviation operations. We are convinced that the specifically adapted ATR 42-600 will provide the best answer for this market segment, which so far does not have operators dedicated to this segment. We are pleased to partner with the world's leading regional aircraft manufacturer to develop commuter service in Xinjiang and strongly contribute to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative.

Chinas Belt and Road Initiative will improve infrastructure both in China and surrounding countries, thus supporting economic development and increasing the demand for air transportation both within China and from and to these countries.

"ATR aircraft are widely recognised as the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the regional market, especially for the short-haul sectors. Thanks to their low fuel consumption and low trip cost, ATRs allow airlines to develop new markets, as highlighted by the over 100 new routes that our aircraft create around the world each year" said Christian Scherer, ATRs Chief Executive Officer.

China has been a strategic partner and supplier for ATR for nearly 20 years. Xi'an Aircraft Industry Co., Ltd. (XAC), a subsidiary of AVIC, provides substantial fuselage sections along with parts of the wings of the ATR aircraft.

ATR is willing to support Chinas important effort to develop the rapidly growing General Aviation market, especially in the area of commuter services. The tailored ATR 42-600 offers a spacious seat layout, the highest standards of cabin comfort, and cutting-edge technology. It uniquely fills the General Aviation market requirement for 30-seat cabin class aircraft.
Amazon is buying a fixer-upper, and its renovation plans are casting a shadow on the whole neighborhood.

The fixer-upper is Whole Foods Market, the natural-foods chain thats been criticized for being high-priced, behind on technology and inconsistent in store design. Investors are confident that Amazon can fix those flaws: They bid up the online giants market value by $6.5 billion on the same day it announced the $13.7 billion purchase.

Other food sellers shares went in the opposite direction. Kroger shares plunged 9 percent on Friday, Supervalu and Costco each lost 7 percent and Wal-Mart and Target fell 5 percent. Food manufacturers such as Kraft Heinz and Post Holdings were punished, too.

Even drugstore chains CVS and Walgreen Boots Alliance took a hit. This is one of the most disruptive acquisitions Ive ever seen in terms of how many stocks it impacted, says Brian Yarbrough, a retail analyst at Edward Jones.

The assumption is that Amazon wont be content to stay in the natural-foods segment. Rather, the market has decided that Amazon is ready to mount a full-scale assault on the entire grocery category.

That may be a little premature. The impact of this will come, but it will take until the end of the decade, or probably five to 10 years, says Burt Flickinger, managing director at Strategic Resource Group.

Amazons own grocery delivery service, Amazon Fresh, has been slow to catch on, and Flickinger believes the company will have its hands full just fixing Whole Foods shortcomings.

This could be Amazons proverbial Waterloo, where the degree of difficulty in achieving victory is going to be significant, he said.

Still, few people are willing to bet against Amazon Chief Executive Jeff Bezos.

Bezos goes for the jugular; he is a market-share guy, says Howard Davidowitz, chairman of the Davidowitz & Associates consulting and investment-banking firm in New York. For the traditional supermarkets, its going to be harder and harder to do things the way theyve always done.

The same goes for packaged-food companies such as Post. Investors are assuming that the food manufacturers are going to be asked to give up some of the profits theyve been enjoying, says Scott Harrison, a senior analyst at Argent Capital Management in Clayton.

Yarbrough isnt ready to write off the entire traditional grocery business; he says that a lot of the stocks are oversold. Still, he adds, investors need to be careful: Amazon has just raised the risk level in the entire sector.

Traditional supermarkets already face challenges, the most immediate of which is a market-share battle among Wal-Mart, Aldi and Lidl, a German chain thats opening its first U.S. stores this month.

Flickinger thinks the three-way price war is a bigger threat to supermarket profits than Amazon at the moment. Amazon definitely will have an effect, but the timeline is fairly long, he said.

There are some doubts whether consumers will fully embrace grocery delivery, which seems to be at the heart of Amazons strategy. After all, shoppers pride themselves on being able to pick out the ripest peaches and a nicely marbled steak. They may not want to let an Amazon worker make that choice.

However, Davidowitz points out, experts once doubted whether people would buy clothes without trying them on. Amazon will sell more apparel this year than Macys, and department stores are feeling a world of hurt.

If the same sort of disruption lies ahead for supermarkets, a lot of retailers shares may have further to fall.
Updated at 11 a.m.

PARIS  Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with India's Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

India's air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

The agreement is an "intent to partner together to meet Indias Make-in-India requirement through the establishment of an F-16 production line in India," Lockheed Martin's leader of F-16 business development, Phil Howard, said on Monday on the sidelines of the Paris Airshow.

But Modi's Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with President Donald Trump's America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

However, Lockheed has met and briefed the current U.S. administration on its plan, and Howard said he had a sense of full support from the Trump administration.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.

Sweden's Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June. 26. India and the United States have built a close defense relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the worlds largest defense contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the worlds most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren renewed her attack on Wells Fargo & Co., urging the Federal Reserve to remove the 12 directors who were on the board when bank employees set up legions of fake customer accounts.

Congress empowered the Fed to remove board members if they violate the law or engage in unsafe business practices that cause banks with federal deposit insurance to suffer losses, Warren, D-Mass., wrote in a letter Monday to Fed Chair Janet Yellen.

"I urge you to exercise your legal authority to remove the holdover Wells Fargo board members," Warren wrote. "The board did nothing to stop rampant misconduct" that led to "more than 5,000 bank employees creating more than two million fake accounts over four years," between 2011 and 2015, Warren added.

Eric Kollig, a Fed spokesman, said, "We have received the letter and plan to respond."

Wells Fargo has faced a barrage of criticism from Warren and others since it was fined $185 million by regulators in September for opening retail bank accounts without customer approval. The scandal triggered public complaints and congressional hearings, prompting the San Francisco-based bank to name new leaders, claw back pay and find new ways to encourage sales. In April, shareholders voted narrowly to re-elect all 15 board members after some proxy advisers and large investors had urged that the majority be voted off.

'Trojan Horse'

Wells Fargo has "taken many actions in response to its retail sales practices issues, including changes in senior leadership, executive accountability actions and numerous steps to ensure we make things right with any customer affected," spokeswoman Jennifer Dunn said in an emailed statement. "That work continues and remains a core part of our efforts."

Warren's real goal probably isn't to oust the firm's board, but to use the Wells Fargo scandal as a means of rebutting Republican calls for broad bank deregulation, said Isaac Boltansky, an analyst at Compass Point Research & Trading.

''It's about defending the regulatory regime," Boltansky said in a phone interview. "Senator Warren's big fear is that the call for medium-size and smaller bank deregulation will be used as a Trojan horse" for easing rules against the biggest lenders.

Political goals

Both parties have tried to leverage the scandal to further political goals. Republican Representative Jeb Hensarling, who chairs the House Financial Services Committee, has used it to criticize the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, contending its regulators should have spotted the fraud before the bank flagged it. On the Democratic side, Warren said during hearings last year that former Chief Executive Officer John Stumpf should face criminal prosecution, while Representative Brad Sherman of California sponsored a bill in December that would prohibit banks from using arbitration agreements to limit consumers' ability to pursue claims.

Yellen said in September congressional testimony that the central bank had initiated "a broad-based review" of compliance regimes and governance at the largest banks. "I think it is very important that senior management be held accountable," she said at that time.

The Fed has the authority to remove bank board members, but only after presenting a case of how an individual's actions have been unsafe for the organization as a whole. Using that process for nearly an entire board would represent a challenging legal undertaking by Fed staff.
Coming on the heels of a report that St. Louis is the fourth-worst U.S. city to live in, at least another list let's us know we have decent access to amusement parks.

Six Flags in Eureka and Silver Dollar City in Branson made the list of top eight parks, according to Family Vacation Critic.

The entire chain of Six Flags parks (20 in North America) was praised for opening new rides this year at each of its parks, and Silver Dollar City won points for its "Food Days" in August.
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) expresses its firm resentment over the recently-announced decision by the United States Administration to restore travel restrictions with Cuba. This represents a step backwards and a strong attack on the freedom of travel, said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai.

This decision will have limited impact on Cubas tourism development, yet it will substantially affect the US economy and American jobs. Many US companies have started to invest in and do business with Cuba in view of the immense potential of Cuban tourism, which other countries will surely continue to benefit from, he added.

Tourism is one of the key economic sectors in Cuba, supporting many livelihoods and drawing significant interest from foreign investors, which will surely continue being the case.

In 2016 Cuba received over 4 million international visitors, a growth of over 1 million in only five years.
Its clear in hindsight: The Quate sisters were in danger.

Representatives of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services were made aware of that more than once, their parents have claimed in statements to reporters and police. But the parents said they dodged investigators by moving to Nevada.

Now Illinois DCFS investigators are opening another child abuse investigation, after the skeletal remains of the youngest daughter were found in a house in Centreville  the result of a homicide authorities said her parents tried to hide  and her two older sisters were rescued from an apartment in Las Vegas where they allegedly had been physically and sexually abused since moving there last year.

Jason Quate, 34, is accused of sexually assaulting a daughter and beating both girls with a belt or electrical cord.

Following his arrest June 6 on a charge that he forced his wife to work as a prostitute, Quate told police that he was involved in the death of 6-year-old Alysha in 2013 and participated in concealment of the body, according to an arrest report. He denied any sexual impropriety with the surviving daughters.

He is being held without bail, and the girls, now ages 13 and 11, are in child protective custody.

Quate and his wife, Elizabeth Odell-Quate, 35, are facing extradition to Illinois to face charges of concealing the death.

The parents statements about escaping DCFS scrutiny raise questions. Could it have better protected their children? Were investigations into previous tips sufficiently thorough? Did investigators look hard enough for problems that could have revealed a bizarre and dangerous environment? Should investigators have looked harder for the Quates after they fled the Metro East area, or checked into the girls welfare after the couple moved to Las Vegas?

The questions are timely, as DCFS reels from disclosures that it has systematically failed to protect children. A Chicago Tribune investigation put the spotlight on three Cook County cases in which children died of beatings or starvation shortly after DCFS closed investigations into mistreatment in their homes, and the case of Semaj Crosby, who was found dead in April in Joliet Township after the agency had closed four neglect investigations.

The disclosures led to the May 31 resignation of the department director, George Sheldon, and a legislative hearing in May at which experts and lawmakers said state investigators were being pressured to close abuse cases even when they had failed to perform basic tasks like contacting police or doctors.

The newspaper was not the only entity that found fault with DCFS.

In January, a report from the departments inspector general, Denise Kane, said investigators were being assigned new cases well in excess of the standards established by a federal consent decree. She said the departments institutional failings were creating a toxic work environment in which it is foreseeable that some investigators will take dangerous shortcuts that can lead to lethal errors.

A reporter sought comments from Illinois state Sen. James F. Clayborne Jr., D-Belleville, and state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Belleville; neither returned phone calls to their district and statehouse offices.

Lack of information

There was not enough information available to know if shortcuts or failures played some role in the Quate family tragedy.

DCFS wont acknowledge that it ever had contact with the family. Any records of previous abuse or neglect investigations would be considered confidential under state law, the department said in a letter.

It could even turn out that DCFS doesnt know if it properly investigated tips about the Quate girls.

If the complaints were classified as unfounded, then the department would not have access to those records today. Under Illinois law, most records of unfounded child abuse or neglect cases are expunged within a year.

Other states keep their records on file for longer periods. In Missouri, records of an unsubstantiated neglect or abuse case would be kept for two years  or five years if the complaint came from a mandated reporter such as a school official.

Mechiko White, executive director of Court-Appointed Special Advocates of Southwestern Illinois, said child abuse is a complex issue, and she wasnt ready to point the finger at DCFS. She said the child-protection system overall, including nonprofits, need a stronger network with more resources.

As for potential breakdowns in the Quate case, Who knows what happened? she asked.

Acknowledged contacts

Elizabeth Odell-Quate told police there were three contacts with DCFS. One came after a principal at a Belleville school witnessed Jason Quate give one of the daughters an open-mouth kiss at drop-off.

Belleville school officials confirmed to a Las Vegas police detective that the report had been made, according to a police report.

It was not clear from public records when the report was made or how it was investigated, or if it occurred while Alysha was still alive. Belleville school officials said the Quates older daughters attended Douglas Elementary School until Jan. 3, 2013. They were removed when the girls were in second and third grades.

It was not known what precipitated the midyear departure. The Quates lived in Belleville until at least late 2015.

Alysha only attended prekindergarten in the district; her last date of attendance was Oct. 12, 2011.

Belleville school and DCFS officials declined to discuss the case.

Michelle Peterson, a child abuse expert based in Colorado who consults in forensic interviewing, said she thinks a tip from an educator about a parent giving his daughter an open-mouth kiss should trigger a full interview with the child.

If hes open-mouth kissing her in public, whats happening behind closed doors? she said. Have a trained interviewer interview that child and see what else is going on and if there is anything more than that kiss. Thats what best practice would have called for.

Linda McQuary, assistant director for forensic services at the Childrens Advocacy Center of Greater St. Louis, said state child welfare officials should partner with police following a report by a school official of a possible case of child sexual abuse. One side would focus on the childs safety, the other on investigating a possible crime.

She said there would be a brief fact-finding interview with the victim and if the child indicated she was unsafe, authorities could take immediate steps to protect her. But a child denying any problem would not necessarily shut down an inquiry.

Authorities could bring the victim to a full interview at a child-friendly advocacy center that would be recorded and monitored by other experts and advocates.

While Illinois also follows the child advocacy model, its not clear if a full interview was done.

Odell-Quate said DCFS labeled the case as unfounded. She said a second complaint about bruises on the head of one of the girls was also considered unfounded. There were no further details about that case.

She said she was approached a third time, in November 2015, by a DCFS representative who said she and her husband were under investigation.

By this time, Alysha was long dead. Her remains were in a plastic tote in the kitchen, Jason Quate told a reporter.

Odell-Quate said she told her husband about the contact with DCFS, and he told her to pack up and go to the Casino Queen in East St. Louis.

Quate said when a DCFS investigator came to the door, they said the children werent home.

Quate said thats when his wife hid Alyshas body in a garage in Centreville. Odell-Quate worked as a prostitute near the Casino Queen for about two months, she told police, before they moved to Las Vegas.

Its not clear if anyone was still looking for them.

EDITOR'S NOTE: An earlier version of this story had an incorrect name for Semaj Crosby, a girl found dead in Joliet Township in April.
FERGUSON  The family of Michael Brown, the city of Ferguson, former Ferguson Police Chief Tom Jackson and former police Officer Darren Wilson are nearing settlement of a lawsuit over Browns 2014 fatal shooting by Wilson, the Post-Dispatch has learned.

The settlement has not yet been finalized or approved by a judge.

A person familiar with the settlement negotiations said that a settlement was close, however, and that it would be for less than $3 million.

Its not clear how much less, but $3 million is the limit of the citys insurance.

There was a conference call with the judge and lawyers about the case June 8, but the summary of the call has been sealed.

The Brown family lawyers filed a sealed document June 10.

On Friday, lawyers for the citys insurance company filed their own motion supporting the Brown family motion to seal documents. In a memo, the citys lawyers also asked that any proceedings connected with the familys motion be sealed, including any hearings or conferences.

Another conference call happened Monday morning, court records show.

Any settlement, once finalized, would have to be made public under Missouris open records law.

Anthony Gray, a lawyer for the family, said Friday that the case was still in limbo, but that the parties would hopefully resolve it.

Thats always a goal, he said later.

Asked why lawyers would try to close the courtroom to the public, Gray said, Theres more to it than that, but I just cant comment.

Lawyers for the Ferguson defendants declined to comment Monday.

Ferguson City Attorney Apollo Carey also declined to comment.

Browns parents, Lezley McSpadden and Michael Brown Sr., filed the lawsuit in May 2015, about nine months after their sons death on Aug. 9, 2014. The suit claims that a culture of pervasive hostility toward African-Americans led to the death of the 18-year-old. It said Wilson used excessive and unreasonable force, and Wilson and other officers were poorly trained. The suit sought unspecified damages.

McSpaddens first name is spelled Lesley in court documents.

A grand jury did not indict Wilson in Browns death. The Justice Department declined to prosecute him, saying evidence and credible witnesses supported Wilsons version of the event.

Wilson claimed that Brown attacked him in his police vehicle. Wilson then shot Brown in the hand.

Brown ran from the vehicle, then turned back and advanced toward Wilson, the report said, coming within 8 to 10 feet when Wilson shot him six to eight times.

A critical Justice Department report on the Ferguson police department, however, found a pattern and practice of unlawful conduct including excessive use of force and the targeting of African-Americans.
Charges say Westbrook and someone else were arguing in Westbrook's home on that block about 11:20 a.m. Saturday. Police were called and found Frederick Thomas, 57, of the same block, in the basement of the home suffering from three gunshot wounds. Thomas died at the scene. It is not clear if Thomas and Westbrook lived at the same home.
ST. LOUIS  The city cant remove a controversial Confederate monument from Forest Park until a dispute over who owns the statue is resolved, a judge ruled Monday.

A circuit court judge granted a temporary restraining order Monday to the Missouri Civil War Museum in Jefferson Barracks, which has claimed ownership of the structure, and set a trial for July 6.

The city has long maintained that it owns the statue and was in the process of dismantling it. On Monday, workers began installing steel rigging on the 38-foot-tall structure and planned to take it down as early as this week.

Officials from the museum say the United Daughters of the Confederacy has signed over ownership to them. Under a 1912 ordinance, the city gave the organization the green light to erect and maintain the monument in the citys largest public park.

Mayor Lyda Krewson acknowledged that the court system would determine ownership of the statue, but she raised the question of whether other city statues would be subject to such claims.

There are a number of statues in our parks and around our regions, she said in a written statement. If someone were to come forward and claim to own another statue, what will the outcome be?

Koran Addo, a Krewson spokesman, said the city had planned to move the monument into storage, where it would remain until the city considers proposals from parties interested in displaying it.

The Missouri Civil War Museum filed a lawsuit against the city on Friday.

The mayors office has sought to take down the monument quickly, as it has sparked passionate debate and protests among city residents. Supporters of removal argue the statue is a painful reminder of slavery and white supremacy. Opponents say it should be protected as a piece of American history and out of respect to war veterans.

Attorneys representing the museum made the case that Civil War experts, accustomed to handling artifacts, would be better equipped to move the memorial, possibly without drilling holes into the structure, as the city has already done.

Moving the antique monument multiple times poses a risk of damage, as the structure is more than 100 years old, said attorney Jay Kanzler.

The museum is ready to move the monument out right now, if the city would just say, OK, Kanzler said.

But lawyers for the city expressed doubts that the museum had raised enough private money to take down the memorial immediately and chalked up its ownership claims to a political stunt.

Mark Trout, the museums executive director, said Monday that the museum has raised more than $15,000 for removal costs so far.

We havent even really gotten going on that, Trout said.

Because the city has already incurred removal costs, including more than $25,000 for a crane that had been set to remove the largest piece of the monument on Tuesday, the restraining order is contingent on the museum putting up a $10,000 bond.

No matter who you side with, they want it removed, said St. Louis City Counselor Michael Garvin. There is no need for an injunction here.

But St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Robert Dierker said that while he was hopeful the city and museum could come to some sort of compromise on how to remove the monument and where to store it, Its by no means clear who owns this thing.















Television news personality Megyn Kellys much publicized interview program Sunday night on NBC was clearly a publicity stunt to maximize the networks ratings. Her interview subject, conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, clearly had his own agenda to broaden his audience of badly misinformed Americans who choose to believe nonsense over facts.

The interview promised to be a perfect storm of media irresponsibility. We were prepared to denounce Kelly and NBC for giving a platform to Jones, who ranks among the most abhorrent people on the planet.

Instead, Kelly stood her ground and showed Jones to be the paranoid clown that he is. She also proffered a serious justification for putting Jones in the hot seat before a national audience, offering lots of evidence that the most powerful person on the planet, President Donald Trump, is among Jones fans. With shocking regularity, when Jones spouts something unfounded and ridiculous, Trump repeats it.

Heres how dangerous Jones is: He goes on his website, Infowars, spouting half-cocked theories about serious news events. His followers then react by threatening or attacking the subjects of Jones bogus reports.

For example, in December 2014 Jones denounced as a hoax the 2012 massacre of 20 young schoolchildren and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut. The whole thing was a fake ..., he stated. It just pretty much didnt happen. The evidence he cited was a doctored photograph posted on the internet.

A Florida professor, James Tracy, began badgering bereaved Sandy Hook parents, demanding that they provide proof of their childrens deaths. Another Florida resident, Lucy Richards, began sending death threats to another bereaved parent. She was sentenced two weeks ago to five months in prison.

Pressed by Kelly, Jones refused to apologize for the pain he caused those parents.

Jones also urged his viewers to act after asserting, without a shred of evidence, that a pizza restaurant in Washington was a front operation for a Democratic Party child sex ring. Inspired by Jones, a gunman opened fire on the restaurant in December.

Equally shocking is the level of trust that Trump places in Jones fictitious nonsense. Trump made a guest appearance on Jones show in December 2015. He thanked Jones after the election. Infowars received a temporary White House press pass last month.

And Trumps still-active presidential campaign issued a press release earlier this month asserting that pro-Trump protesters outside the White House outnumbered opponents after he withdrew from the Paris climate change accord. It cited Infowars as its source.

Sadly, Trump is only one of millions of people who follow Jones around the world. That this blowhard hoaxer receives serious attention in the most powerful corners of the White House is the most frightening revelation of all.
WARWICKSHIRE Police has said that will be be meeting with Muslim communities across the county following the incident in Finsbury Park, London.

The suspected terror attack, in which a van was driven into a crowd of people outside a mosque in the early hours of Monday morning, happened as the force published its new hate crime strategy.

The 13-page document makes specific mention of Islamophobic hate crime for the first time with a direct reference to the Tell MAMA campaign that aims to address and monitor offences against Muslims.

Assistant Chief Constable, Martin Evans, said: "As information regarding the appalling attack in Finsbury Park in London is shared we understand that our communities, especially those observing Ramadan, will be upset, alarmed and anxious.

"Whilst the motivation behind the attack has not yet been confirmed, all the victims were from the Muslim community and we want to reassure the public that we have patrol plans in place that ensure a visible uniformed presence at Mosques.

"News of last night's dreadful incident comes on a day when Warwickshire Police has renewed its commitment to tackling hate crime of all types with the launch of a new hate crime strategy.

"The strategy makes specific mention of Islamophobic hate crime for the first time with a direct reference to the Tell MAMA campaign that aims to address and monitor offences against Muslims.

"We will be engaging with Muslim communities across the areas we serve to provide reassurance in light of last night's attack and answer are questions they may have about how we tackle crimes against specific communities across our force area.

"The thoughts of all of us at Warwickshire Police are with those affected by this crime, their family, friends and their communities."

The new strategy sets out the role police officers and staff will play in responding to and investigating hate crimes and the service victims can expect.

A hate crime section has been set up on the Warwickshire Police website with information on details of the various ways of reporting hate crime, details of the service victims can expect, links to a range of hate crime materials, contact details for support groups, and details of local hate crime priorities.

Hate crime, both locally and nationally, is underreported, with an estimated half of all offences not being reported to police.

Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe added: "I join the many voices across the country today in utterly condemning this latest horrifying attack in London and passing on my sympathies to all those affected.

"It is important now more than ever for communities to remain calm and vigilant, while also coming together to reject the hatred which underpins these atrocities.

"It is particularly poignant that the attack comes on the same day as the refreshed Hate Crime Strategy is published here in Warwickshire.

"I want all our communities to know that hate crime is taken extremely seriously by the police, who will actively seek to take action against offenders.

"Combined with the excellent work being carried out locally at the #WeStandTogether events around the county, I hope it will encourage more people to come forward and report hate crime."
The Supreme Court bench overseeing the implementation of the Panama case verdict ordered the Federal Investigation Agency director-general to probe charges that the Security and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) chairman tampered records related to the Sharif family money trail.

The special bench of the Supreme Court was holding proceedings on Monday over the government's response to the Panama case Joint Investigation Teams (JIT) charges that its probe is being impeded by certain official quarters.

During the hearing, the three-member bench also directed the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to suspend its show-cause notice to Irfan Mangi, the NAB official who is part of the six-member JIT.

Attorney General (AG) Ashtar Ausaf Ali was also directed to inform the court tomorrow about what action should be taken against the Intelligence Bureau (IB) over charges levelled against it by the JIT.

Justice Ijazul Ahsan observed that every day the governments representatives attack the JIT and the apex court on various news channels. He stated that they will soon issue an order related to this.

Read more: IB chief admits to collecting particulars of Panama JIT members

The bench also warned the government to stop harassing JIT members otherwise it will issue a strict order in this regard.

The judges also directed the JIT to work according to the objective given to it by the Supreme Court in the designated time frame and "stop looking here and there."

Questioning the role of the IB, Justice Azmat Saeed Sheikh said the court will continue to walk the tight rope of the law.

We will not remain silent spectators. We have said before that we do not care if the sky falls or earth crumbles, said Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan, who heads the bench.

There are severe accusations against the SECP chairman, he observed further.

Earlier today, as the bench began hearing the case, members of the JIT were not present in court. The bench then asked the AG if proceedings should be postponed till 1pm today, to which the AG replied in the affirmative.

Also read: Supreme Court ignoring JITs biased attitude: Mussadiq Malik

Proceedings of the bench could not be held on Thursday as the JIT members could not show up in court owing to the premiers questioning by them on the same day. The case was then adjourned till Monday (today).

At the hearing on Wednesday, the court had reserved its decision on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs son, Hussain Nawaz's, petition challenging the recording of the JIT proceedings and had also directed the attorney general (AG) to submit his response to the JITs report on impediments faced by it.

The AG, on Friday, submitted the government's response to the JIT's charges in the Supreme Court.

In it, all the government agencies, departments and ministry, including the Prime Minister House, have rejected charges of pressuring witnesses and delaying the high-profile probe.

On Saturday, Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif appeared before the JIT to become the fourth member of the Sharif family summoned for the probe.

Following the session, the Punjab chief minister said that every penny earned by his family is accounted for, adding that all assets owned by the family are part of the familys private wealth and have nothing to do with public funds.

He also rejected all allegations of wrongdoing and corruption hurled by his opponents.

The JIT has summoned the premiers elder son, Hussain Nawaz, five times and his younger son, Hassan, twice so far.

Explore: All depts have denied JIT allegations of hampering Panama case investigation: AGP

The Supreme Court decided to begin investigating the Sharif family in November last year after the main political parties failed to agree on a committee to probe the April 2016 Panama Papers leaks, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan threatened mass protests and to shut down Islamabad in protest on November 2.

On April 20, the five-member Supreme Court bench gave its verdict in the case with the judgment split 3-2 in favour of a further probe against the premier's family wealth. The other two judges had ruled that sufficient evidence was available for the prime minister to be de-seated.

The JIT  formed on May 6  was given 60 days to complete its probe into the Sharif familys international financial dealings and submit its report to the Supreme Courts special implementation bench overseeing its proceedings.

The JIT team is headed by Federal Investigation Agency Additional Director Wajid Zia, and includes members from Inter-Services Intelligence, Military Intelligence, SECP, State Bank of Pakistan and NAB.
Steady as she goes for Emirates Team New Zealand with two more wins over Oracle Team USA putting them 3-0 up in the first to seven series.

Once again the Kiwi boat was faster right around the track and that speed allied to impeccable tactics and boat-handling proved irresistible.

And despite preparing their boat with different daggerboards today the Americans still had no answer.

But the post-race race words of Jimmy Spithill will sound a warning and serve as a reminder for Emirates Team New Zealand; We have been here before, says the American skipper.

Its not over.

Theres now a five day gap before racing resumes and Oracle plan to make the most of them. Five days, a very important five days, says Spithill. We must use the days wisely. Weve got to get faster. Thats pretty obvious.

Heading into the start of the first race Emirates Team New Zealand knew that Oracle had altered their boat to make it quicker.

But Emirates Team New Zealand was able to live with Oracle Team USA, and after both boats flew to mark 1 almost level the Kiwi yacht found a click more pace to take the lead.

Eleven seconds up by mark 2 the Kiwi boat continued to extend and with the breeze holding more steadily than on day one there was no comeback for the Americans who trailed over the finish line 49 in arrears.

At the start of race two Spithill might have sniffed an opportunity when a mistake on a gybe had the Kiwi boat floundering with the Americans poised to attack.

One again, cool heads prevailed and with the boat up and running properly Emirates Team New Zealand held off Spithill then floored it, forcing the Oracle skipper to acknowledge: Their acceleration was pretty impressive off the line.

Showing the Americans a clean pair of hulls the Kiwis set off on what one commentator called their most emphatic victory yet.

The winning margin - 112. Afterwards Spithill said the Oracle team would be working 24 hours shifts using all their resources in every department to find more speed.

Weve already got a massive list of things we want to work on. We sailed better today but we also made a lot of mistakes and we are a long way from where we want to be, says Burling. And we know if we step back they will catch us. Racing resumes on Saturday.
The two cyclones that pounded New Zealand during April and caused residents of Edgecumbe to be evacuated have resulted in insured costs of $84 million.

The tail end of Cyclone Debbie, which passed over New Zealand between April 3 and 7, cost insurers $66.4 million, followed closely by Cyclone Cook between April 13 and 16 at $18 million.

This brings the total to date for flood losses for significant weather events for 2017 to $135.5 million, says the Insurance Council of New Zealand reported today.

Were not even half way through 2017 and well on the way to one of the most damaging in recent years for extreme weather events, says Insurance Council Chief Executive Tim Grafton.

Provisional data released today has nearly 6400 house and contents claims costing $61.6 million, 1016 commercial material damage and business interruption claims at $16.8 million and 549 motor vehicle claims costing $4.8 million.

The weather bombs weve had this year highlights the importance insurance plays when disaster strikes. In towns such as Edgecumbe where there are significant numbers of residents not insured, the Government is sending all the wrong signals by increasing the cost of insurance, he says.

Major increases in taxes and levies on people who insure their homes could see low income households not able to protect themselves from disasters.

Hikes in the earthquake and fire service levies means people with house and contents insurance will be taxed over $450 annually without even counting the 15 per cent GST applied to the premium that the insurer charges.
The buntings up and the signage is complete, as Te Kuiti prepares to honour two of their favourite sons  All Black legends Sir Colin and Stan Meads.

The official unveiling of the Sir Colin Meads statue and the opening of the Gallagher Meads Brothers Exhibition is being held in the rugby brothers home town today.

Last week the finishing touches have been applied to display a lifetime of memorabilia celebrating the Meads remarkable playing careers.

Attending todays event will be rugby commentator Keith Quinn (MC), New Zealand Rugby and New Zealand Rugby Foundation representatives and VIPs (Very Injured Players), former All Blacks including Sir Brian Lochore, Bryan Williams and Tane Norton, Waitomo mayor Brian Hanna as well as the Meads family, friends, locals and school children.

The centrepiece of the entire occasion will be the unveiling of the larger than life bronze statue of Sir Colin at 1.30pm followed by the opening of the exhibition at 3pm.

COMMUNITY PROJECT

The tribute project to Sir Colin is being driven by the towns Legendary Te Kuiti (LTK) committee and funded by sponsors, donations and grants.

LTK marketing officer Yvette Ronaldson says preparations are on track for what will be a huge day for the entire community.

The statue looks amazing, its packed and ready to come down to Te Kuiti, she says.

The exhibition is also making good progress, and although it is difficult to decide what to display, it will be ready on Monday.

We have had wonderful support for this project from a range of businesses, the Waitomo District Council, rugby fans and local people, and we are grateful to everyone who has helped in some way.

Yvette says LTK are expecting a large crowd to attend so in conjunction with the Waitomo District Council, the main street has been spruced up to ensure it is looking its best for the highly anticipated event.

We want to create a festive atmosphere to make everyone feel welcome so weve been working with the Waitomo District Council to ensure we showcase Te Kuiti.

Its definitely a community event and everybody is invited to come along because its not just a celebration for Sir Colin and Stan and the Meads family, its also a celebration for Te Kuiti and we want as many people there as possible to enjoy the special day.
A 45 year old Waikato man was today charged with the murder of Kim Richmond, the Arohena woman whose body was found in her ute in Lake Arapuni last week.

Kim Louise Richmond disappeared on July 31, 2016. Repeated searches failed to find any trace of her.

Police began searching Lake Arapuni in the Waikato last week and located the 2014 silver Ford Ranger ute that Kim was believed to be driving prior to her disappearance.

A body was found in the vehicle which a port mortem examination determined was Kims. Police released that news on Friday.

The arrested man will appear in the Hamilton Court on tomorrow Tuesday June 20, 2017.

Kims family has been informed of todays developments and are being supported by Police.

- See more at: http://www.sunlive.co.nz/news/156296-missing-kim-richmonds-ute-found.html#sthash.FZEjlnZK.dpuf
One of the missions facing Tauranga Volunteer Coastguard unit manager Steve Russel during the next few years is beginning the process that will see the eventual replacement of the current rescue boat, named TECT Rescue.

Were at the very early stages at this point, its a four to five- year strategy to replace the big boat, says Steve.

Theres two stages to the plan. The fundraising project and the boat project. Steves looking at a five-year plan, describing how they go about it; and then deciding what is the best boat to fit the Bay of Plenty area and its growth.

Thats going to be a project in its own right, says Steve. We are just getting involved, and trying to get some ideas.

Coastguard New Zealand is quite keen on getting a fleet that are all the same, but thats part of their strategy. At this stage we have just got to get on and plan what we need to do locally, says Steve.

Obviously, if you do end up having a larger Coastguard New Zealand strategy they may be able to supply boats at a much better rate because they will be able to supply more over a longer period.

Its going to be a pretty busy year getting the strategy document prepared during the next six months, and from there having an idea what is required and from there going to the local community and the people that are going to help pay for it.

The current Auckland Coastguard boat is LION Foundation Rescue, a -speed foil assisted catamaran designed by Nic de Waal of Teknicraft Design Auckland, New Zealand, and built in Whanganui by Q-West Boat Builders.

LFR is an aluminium, live aboard, multi SAR mission capable vessel, designed to operate in the greater Hauraki Gulf out of its base at the Marine Rescue Centre, Mechanics Bay, Auckland.

Their operating style is different to Taurangas, says Auckland coastguard general manager Duthie Lidgard. Weekend crews live onboard. A crew of four to six stays on board  which with accommodation and services means an all-round bigger boat than a day-tripper like the Tauranga TECT Rescue boat.

We have so many people out there overnight, its nice to be there anchored with them and if somebody is in trouble we are right there, says Duthie.

All the accommodation we put in them is not suitable for a lot of other people  and adds to the cost. And the weight and the size.

Probably they [Tauranga] dont need something quite as big, but it depends on the work they are getting  because the work here is getting bigger and bigger. Nobodys buying smaller boats, they are all buying monsters.

LFRs cruising speed is 28 knots, with a top speed in excess of 40 knots depending on conditions.
Parents with children on the spectrum age can face many challenges.

Mary Anne Gill talks to a Tauranga woman about how her 41-year-old son is still transitioning.

People call Julia Genet a champion for change and her son Richard the tractor man.

The 69-year-old mother of two makes no apology for her description and is about to take that even further by offering her innovative company concept to other families in the Bay of Plenty.

The rationale behind her and daughter Caroline establishing New Breeze Ltd in 2004 was a frustration with the system that provided funding and support for Richard who in 1994, at age 18, finally got an official diagnosis of autism and intellectual disability, which in 1999 via a needs assessment, brought with it funding from the Government.

The family, husband Anton, Julia and Caroline, were living on a Hawkes Bay farm when Richard was born in April 1976.

Richard was very challenging. He clearly had an intellectual disability, cause unknown, says Julia.

When he was 7, he was spinning, screaming, rocking  all the very strong autistic things.

Julia took him to see Australian-based psychologist and author Dr Tony Attwood who was in New Zealand for a speaking engagement.

He gave us some basic things to do with Rich which involved a balance between using his fine motor skills and gross motor skills.

Back then, school was not compulsory for children with a disability.

Nobody bothered with him much.

They enrolled him into Hohepa in Clive, a community for children and adults who have intellectual disabilities. There they practiced the curative education principles of Rudolf Steiner.

Richard was in a class of seven and initially thrived in the community but his parents struggled when he was home for the 12-week holiday breaks.

Rich was having major meltdowns for so many days. We tried to put in place everything we knew about autism but we didnt have an official diagnosis and couldnt get one so we struggled and there was no funding then.

Julia was on the Hohepa Council of Management, the Disabled Persons Assembly and Autism NZ national committees.

It was a fairly vibrant time for disability then. People were talking out for themselves. It was the most amazing training ground for me.

As they became more aware of disability issues, Julia and Anton realised Richard felt cloistered in the Hohepa environment.

We wondered if it was the right place for him. We thought there were more opportunities opening up.

In July 1999, they shifted him into Supported Individual Lifestyle Choices (Silc) in Tauranga.

Wed been going up to Tauranga quite regularly visiting my sisters. We loved it here. We saw a house and land in Oropi with 550 mandarin trees and a bed and breakfast which we thought would be ideal.

They missed it at auction but soon afterwards, it came up for sale again about the time Anton had an accident, which resulted in a severe brain injury. He now requires 24-hour support.

Julia, using skills she picked up when studying real estate, sold the Hawkes Bay farm and bought the 6000 sq m Oropi property, about 10kms south of Tauranga, and moved there in November 2000.

Richards job, when he visited, was to mow the lawns on the tractor. Since he was a baby, his special interest had always been tractors  hence the tractor man nickname.

He was struggling at Silc though and there is some debate over whether it was he or Julia who was eased out. Julia maintains she was the problem, not her son.

Lorna Sullivan of Standards-Plus in Tauranga, a long-time advocate for disabled New Zealanders, advised Julia to set up her own company to receive Richards individualised funding package.

It really set a precedent. What we were doing was something quite different.

There was no way Anton, Julia and Richard, at this time in his life, could live on the Oropi property. We just wouldnt have been able to make it work, says Julia.

She found a piece of land in Maketu that was flat but on the top of a hill and it could house Richards beloved tractor.

There was a home there and they built a little cottage for Richard and a big workshop at the back for Anton. It was a breezy site hence the name for the company New Breeze Ltd. It was also a new way of supporting a person with a disability who required 24 hours support.

The cottage was custom built, lined with medium density fibreboard and had everything bolted down.

Rich didnt want us (his family members) looking after him. Through the company, we managed Richards funding. Then we had to learn how to employ staff. Originally, we went through many staff. We are lucky though, we do get high quality staff despite the pay.

Isabelle, Caroline, Charlize, Richard and his carer Dhanya Jose with Julia Genet. Photo: Bill Hedges, Rotorua.

Julia and Caroline maintain the system could work for many people.

I dont think families are always the best person to look after their son and daughter with a disability for ever. I dont do his everyday care; the support people manage it and the environment so hes the best he can be.

She is a great supporter of the Social Role Valorisation programme, a name given to an analysis of human relationships and services, formulated in 1983 by Wolf Wolfensberger. The theory is that society tends to identify groups of people as fundamentally different and of less value than everyone else.

This is the key to getting things right for people with differences, says Julia.

Richards nieces Isabella, 10, and Charlize, nearly 5, live in Pyes Pa south of Tauranga.

Rich loves them to bits. Theyre really good with him, they manage amazingly well. Sometimes Rich has some interesting behaviours. For example some of the social skills he learned from acting at Hohepa, he still does today, like bowing dramatically and kissing their hands. To them though hes just Uncle Rich.

The Oropi property came on the market again and Julia decided a move back would benefit everyone and be a step towards sustainability for the family, so she put Maketu up for sale.

It was interesting to see how Rich managed while people were looking at the property. He offered them cups of tea and took them tiki touring.

They moved back to Oropi in January this year. Richard lives in the main home and Julia and Anton are staying with Caroline and the girls. They want to build a cottage for Richard but council red tape and Taurangas booming building market has thwarted their plans so things are moving very slowly.

Meanwhile Richard lives in the main home happily lording it up there, says Julia.

The workshop has been fixed up so Anton and Rich spend a lot of time in there.

The plan is still to build a cottage as while they could renovate the flat in the workshop they would still need all the red tape.

A lot of the mandarin trees are gone so weve got some avocados which means we can have a micro business.

Julias granddaughters are looking forward to living on the property with extended family.

Anton needs 24-hour support. He chokes sometimes. So they have Opa (grandad) choking and Rich yelling. Its great fun here. Ive shifted them so many times.

Julia says she marvels at how well Richard transitioned from Maketu back to Oropi.

People need to realise how well autistic people can manage change with the right support.

The next challenge is to establish a collective based on the Australian Homes West model. It is a family-governed service, which supports people living in their own or rented homes.

Julia sees about five families involved and it would enable them all to employ an administrative and support coordinator across each individual family who would have their own support people. A key strength of the model is to allow for succession planning.

A family member can be on the board so when that member resigns, or wants to take leave, another member of the family or friend with the same vision, can take their place.

For older parents with older children living at home, this is a real solution. The older children can have their own home and support people and a degree of independence. Its a win-win.

So does she ever get frustrated or downhearted?

I sometimes feel sorry for myself when Im caught up with red tape more than anything. I get frustrated by some of the bureaucratic nonsense.

In her down times, Julia loves surfing the net, she enjoys reading and spending time with the grandchildren.

Rich loves celebrations so we have plenty of those.

She pays tribute to Richards carers who she says work so well with Richard and the family and as a team. There are regular meetings between them all but it is the team who support Richard, not her.

That is why he lives a charmed life.

Any families interested in forming a collective in the Bay of Plenty area should contact Julia juliag@eol.co.nz

Mary Anne Gill is editor of Altogether Autism journal, a quarterly publication produced for professionals, families and people on the autism spectrum.
A recently arrived refugee from Africa has been telling Spanish authorities of the harrowing ordeal he has gone through in his home country of Cameroon.

The 20-year-old man alleges that he was sexually tortured and has asked for asylum, fearing for his life. Officials have been able to prove that part of his penis has been amputated.

The man was brought ashore along with 51 other sub-Saharan immigrants after Spanish rescuers found their tightly-packed small boat adrift off the Costa de Sol on 27 May.

After being checked over by the Red Cross, the immigrants were interviewed by police. Here the young Cameroonian asked for asylum, claiming he had suffered from sexual torture. Speaking in French, he said that men in his country had tried to kill him, succeeding in cutting off part of his penis.

According to his distressing account, his father had been killed with poison and his uncles all murdered as well. After his fathers death, the victim was held for five days and tortured, suffering mutilation of his genitals. He said that he was unaware who the torturers were as their complaint was with his late father.

The man has now submitted a request for asylum through a lawyer offered by the authorities for fear of being killed if he returns to his country.

After leaving Malaga port, the victim was taken to a government reception centre for immigrants in Barcelona and now is in unknown whereabouts pending news of his asylum application.
The Spanish economy minister has apparently turned into the EUs biggest fan. In an interview with the UKs Financial Times this week, Luis de Guindos said that the only way for the EU to survive in a post-Trump-Brexit world was to come closer together; in particular, he called for greater economic integration and for EU executives to be given more control over member states economies. The minister admitted that his suggestions were rather aggressive, but he was emphatic that a more tightly bound EU was crucial to its survival.

Is this really the same politician who has maintained a conspicuously flippant stance towards the blocs fiscal policies over the last few years? De Guindos Popular Party government has failed to meet Brussels deficit reduction targets every year its been in office and only narrowly avoided a fine for its laxity last summer.

When reminded by Brussels that Spains deficit needs to be a priority for the Ministry of Economy (as he often is), De Guindos usually retorts by saying that continuing the countrys growth is more important.

Yet the EU is not assuaged by the ministers focus on GDP expansion: the Commission told Madrid at the end of last month that it will continue to closely monitor Spains deficit and debt levels even after the country exits the Excessive Debt Procedure (EDP) next year.

Curious, then, that De Guindos apparently wants the EU to have even more economic control over member states than it already does. The economy minister told the FT, You need someone who can say to Spain: You need to have a labour market reform and this has got to be done by the end of the year.

In fact, this is exactly whats happening at the moment. When Spain avoided a fine from Brussels for fiscal lassitude last July, the Commission gave Mariano Rajoys government an extra two years - until 2018 - to bring its deficit under the EU ceiling of 3%. The PP insists this will be achieved next year, but Brussels remains sceptical, not least because 2017s budget has only just been approved by a deeply fragmented congress.

EU executives are also concerned about Spains debt, which is forecast to be 98.5% of GDP next year - over 40% in excess of the official 60% target. According to EU rules, the Spanish government will have to reduce debt by 2% of GDP every year until the magic figure of 60% is reached.

In other words, the EU is already bearing down on Spain in the way De Guindos says hed like it to in a toughened-up, more integrated bloc. Perhaps, before he asks Brussels to be even stricter with his country, he should first hit the targets its already set for the Spanish economy.
SKANEATELES, N.Y. -- Shortly before the Bluewater Grill in Skaneateles closed Saturday night, an unusually large number of bugs descended on the village near the lake.

"It was pretty bad last night," Bluewater Grill manager Heather Koziol said Sunday. "It's something we have to deal with every year, but we make the best of it."

Mayflies are harmless and don't stick around for long, she said.

These inch-long earth-tone insects -- known as mayflies -- usually arrive each year around Father's Day and stay on the back side of businesses, facing Skaneateles Lake, locals said.

But this year, the bugs plastered the front of the buildings on the south side of East Genesee Street. Mayflies are harmless and don't stick around for long, usually no more than 24 hours after they hatch, locals said.

Mayflies also tend to attract fishermen throughout Upstate New York because they are dinner to many fish on Skaneateles Lake.

Alan Isserlis, who frequently visits the village, said he has seen quite a few fishermen in Skaneateles this past week. But he didn't notice the mayflies until he saw two inside the library Sunday afternoon. When he walked outside, Isserlis said he was astonished at what he saw next.

"The sheer number (of mayflies) was amazing," he said. "It was prolific. They were on the sidewalks, buildings, windows. They were all over the place. Everybody on the street was stunned."

Skaneateles resident Greg Munno said the mayflies covered his door Sunday morning.

"I had to brush them aside to get to the knob and let myself in," he said. "I think it's pretty cool. I'm not grossed out by it. But if they don't go away by themselves, it certainly is going to be a mess for somebody to clean up."

As residents and tourists walked along East Genesee Street on Father's Day, Munno said he saw someone trying to vacuum the bugs from the front window of Skaneateles Furs, at 36 E. Genesee St.

But after a storm swept through Sunday night, nearly all the bugs were gone as fast as they arrived, said Koziol, who said this is her 12th summer working at the Bluewater Grill.
Syracuse, NY -- Both sides sought to use Armory Square shooter Sangsouriyanh Maniphonh's military record to their advantage this afternoon when he took the stand during his own murder trial.

Perception is everything in Maniphonh's murder trial, in which he admits he fatally shot Jonathan Diaz early Thanksgiving Day in a crowded Armory Square.

Prosecutor Melinda McGunnigle is trying to prove that Maniphonh, 28, intentionally killed Diaz, 26, in a jealous rage over the victim's phone texts to the shooter's wife up to a year earlier.

But Maniphonh says he was in fear of his life after three or four men -- including Diaz -- came running at him outside a bar and Diaz jumped him. He says he fired after being pinned to the ground.

Maniphonh, wearing a suit and tie, took the witness stand after lunch and spoke softly in answering questions for two hours. (He is in jail, but allowed civilian clothes in the presence of the jury.)

Maniphonh's six years in the Army included two tours to Afghanistan and extensive handgun experience that allowed him to obtain a concealed carry permit after returning to civilian life.

The prosecution tried to show that Maniphonh's combat experience meant he was well-equipped to handle a bar fight without using lethal force.

But Maniphonh testified that he was more scared by the situation in Armory Square than he was at any point in Afghanistan.

"You were more scared in Armory Square than you were overseas in a foreign country fighting for the military?" McGunnigle asked him.

"Yes," he replied.

Later, Maniphonh explained that he'd suffered a back injury in the military and felt vulnerable on the ground that night with what he thought were multiple people pummeling him.

At one point, McGunnigle questioned Maniphonh about his experience with guns in the military.

"You were trained to kill," she told him.

"Trained to survive, ma'am," Maniphonh replied.

He also acknowledged a domestic dispute involving his wife that happened in 2012, when he was stationed at Fort Drum.

In that incident, Maniphonh had admitted to pushing his wife to the ground and putting his hands around her neck. Today, Maniphonh disputed the specific allegations but acknowledged the incident took place.

His wife called police on him, and he was barred from reenlisting in the Army until they took marriage counseling and he took individual counseling, Maniphonh testified. He was not criminally charged.

Maniphonh said the barring was later lifted and he received more training in the military before being honorably discharged following a back injury in Afghanistan.

In a surprise move, one of Maniphonh's own attorneys, Patrick Hennessey, brought up a previous incident that the judge had told McGunnigle she couldn't raise.

That involved an incident about eight weeks before the fatal shooting last year, in which Maniphonh got into an argument with two men talking to his wife in an Armory Square bar.

Maniphonh thought the two men were trying to "pick up" his wife, and got more angry when she left the bar around the same time they did.

In that incident, Maniphonh's anger eventually turned to his wife, who he accused by text message later of being "disrespectful" and "disloyal" to him.

Maniphonh also threatened that if his wife saw the men again, "someone was going to get laid down." Today, Maniphonh testified that meant he was going to fight the man in question. He told his wife not to talk to those men again.

There were no punches thrown that night and the fight never turned physical, Maniphonh said.

But McGunnigle sought to show that there was a pattern of Maniphonh being jealous.

The night of Diaz's death, Maniphonh acknowledged that he'd stopped Diaz to ask him about text messages that Diaz had sent Maniphonh's wife many months earlier.

The messages included: "I want you," "I miss you," and "Send me some pictures," Maniphonh testified. "Things you shouldn't say to another man's wife," he said.

Maniphonh said that Diaz was the initial aggressor that night, something that McGunnigle tried to disprove. She noted that a security video shows Maniphonh head-butting Diaz in the first physical blow between the two men.

Maniphonh said the head-butt came only after Diaz wound up for what Maniphonh believed was a punch.

"You were the aggressive one," McGunnigle charged.

"Only when he acted in an aggressive manner," Maniphonh replied. "I wasn't trying to fight anybody, ma'am," he added later.

That initial scuffle was quickly broken up and the two parties were escorted out opposite doors.

Outside, Maniphonh testified that he waited for a friend, whose hat had come off while trying to break up the scuffle.

That's when Maniphonh said he saw three or four men running at him, yelling. Maniphonh told police at one point that one of the men had yelled at him: "What you gonna do? What you gonna do now?"

Within seconds, he testified that one man -- later identified as Diaz -- had tackled him and was straddling him on the ground.

Maniphonh said he hit his head on the ground and feared he was going to black out. He testified that it felt like more than one person was "pummeling" him.

At that moment, he pulled out his concealed handgun from inside his waistband and fired it twice into the person, he testified.

McGunnigle questioned Maniphonh's testimony that he was "frozen with fear," and "fear like he'd never felt before."

McGunnigle suggested that Maniphonh knew one of the men running at him was Diaz. The victim simply wanted to continue the fight that started inside the bar, she argued.

When asked why he didn't call for help, Maniphonh said he was too scared when questioned by his own lawyer. When asked by McGunnigle, he said he didn't have time.

In any case, Maniphonh testified he was in more fear than any point during his Army tours -- including combat -- in Afghanistan.

That's important because a self-defense strategy requires that he feel in fear of his life -- and that a reasonable person would feel in fear of his life in a similar situation.

Upon questioning by the prosecutor, Maniphonh acknowledged that he never saw Diaz -- or anyone else -- with a weapon. He hadn't warned Diaz he had a gun. He hadn't displayed his weapon before shooting it. He hadn't fired off warning shots. Diaz had never threatened to kill him.

McGunnigle suggested that Maniphonh could have gotten up if he'd wanted to; Maniphonh said he couldn't.

Prosecution witnesses disputed that three or four men rushed at Maniphonh, or were involved in the fight itself. No witnesses have testified that anyone physically fought with Maniphonh other than Diaz.

It's also in dispute whether Diaz knocked Maniphonh to the ground or if they fell down together while wrestling.

But Maniphonh reiterated that he felt in fear of his life.

"I needed to protect myself," he said. "If someone was going to try to kill you, you protect yourself."

Closing arguments in Maniphonh's trial are scheduled for Tuesday morning. Maniphonh is facing a second-degree murder charge punishable by up to 25 years to life in prison.
FRANKFORT, N.Y. -- After months of investigation, more than 40 people are facing charges for participating in an illegal bird fighting ring in Central New York.

More than 200 birds were seized from the operation and given to a local humane society, according to State Police.

Troopers spent about six months investigating the fighting operation at a barn along Higby Road in Frankfort. Officials said the fighting was conducted out of Mr. P's Natural Stone & Landscaping at 2308 Higby Rd.

After obtaining a search warrant Saturday, officers found 55 game birds commonly used for fighting in a barn on the property along with $68,000. Another barn held a bird breeding and training facility.

Another 180 fighting birds were found and seized, troopers said.

All 235 birds were given to the Herkimer County Humane Society, who had staff at the scene while police investigated the area.

The following people were charged with engaging in animal fighting for amusement, a felony:

Marcelino Burgos, 65, Dudley Avenue, Utica

Jose L. Morlas-Ortiz, 34, Neilson Street, Utica

Jose G. Santiago-Martinez, 44, Magnolia Street, Moorefield, West Virginia

Gilberto Taveras,32, Bleecker Street, Utica

Marcelino Cintra, 54, Rosemary Drive, Rochester

Arnaldo R. Santiago, 35, Bleecker Street, Utica

Eixton Flores, 61, Alphonse Street, Rochester

Jose Garcia, 44, Neilson Street, Utica

Camille Garcia, 36, Rosetta Petruzzi Way, Buffalo

Jose J. Torres, 40, Borinquen Plaza, Rochester

Joel Mateo, 31, Lincoln Avenue, Utica

Jose J. Morales, 37, Genesee Street, Utica

Victor Felix DeJesus, 35, Belmont Street, Buffalo

Josue Rivera, 45, Auburn Avenue, Buffalo

Nelson R. Colon, 46, Colvin Avenue, Buffalo

Kevin I. Perez, 25, Elm Street, Utica

Christian E. Garcia, 31, Evaleen Avenue, Syracuse

Esther Guzman, 61, 10th Avenue, New York,10019

Giselle Aberu Morel, 26, West 175th Street, New York

Jorge L. Mateo, 65, Elm Street, Utica

Mario L. Mateo, 31, Elm Street, Utica

Radhames Perez, 37, Lincoln Avenue, Utica

Alvin J. Colon, 36, Lafayette Street, Buffalo

Hector O. Alejandro, 65, Klein Road, Williamsville

Angel L. Martinez, 32, North Main Street, Moorefield, West Virginia

Yordanis Plaza Lopez, 32, Wilder Street, Rochester

Carlos J. Gonzalez, 38, Jay Street, Utica

Eider Diaz, 42, Costar Street, Rochester

Angel M. Alejandro, 45, Mariner Street, Buffalo

Joshua E. Cirino, 25, Roberts Street, Utica

Luis A. Rodriguez, 19, Bleecker Street, Utica

Daniel A. Santiago, 37, Flagg Avenue, Utica

Ramon Rivera, 63, Gray Avenue, Rochester

Angel L. Rivera, 52, Evergreen Circle, Fairport

Jaime Mateo, 61, Bleecker Street, Utica

Diomedes R. Taveras, 51, Blandina Street, Utica

Luis D. Rivera, 30, Schuyler Street, Utica

Hector A. Martinez, 31, Ellis Street, Syracuse

Justin J. Oliver, 16, Ellis Street, Syracuse

Emmanuel Gomez, 29, Floyd Avenue, Utica

Patrick Samson, 65, Higby Rd, Frankfort

Tanner M. Pagan, 27, of Clarion Drive, Whitesboro, was charged with being a spectator at an animal fighting for amusement, a misdemeanor.

State Police say they are still investigating the situation. Troopers ask anyone with information about the case or any other illegal bird fighting operations in central New York to call Investigator Scott Rachon at (315) 793-2531.
Various glasses of different beers

Various glasses of different beers

(Julian Rovagnati)

SYRACUSE, NY -- The 2017 New York State Fair will host its first professionally judged contest for commercial beers, with the top brew earning the "Governor's Excelsior Cup."

The contest, announced today by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, is aimed at promoting the fast-growing beer industry in New York, which now has more than 340 breweries, the most since before Prohibition.

The State Fair has long hosted both commercial and amateur wine contests, and an amateur, or homebrew, contest, among its many culinary and craft competitions. But it has never held a commercial beer contest.

The New York State Craft Beer Competition will award gold, silver and bronze medals to the best beers in 20 categories, Cuomo said. Categories will include standards like pale ale and lager, and niche styles like sours or spiced beers.

The beer given the highest overall by the judges will be awarded the Excelsior Cup for the year. "Excelsior," meaning ever upward in Latin, is the state motto. The concept is similar to the Governor's Cup for the state's best wine, given each August at the New York Wine & Food Classic in Watkins Glen.

Judging will take place July 29 in Rochester. The panel will include brewers and other industry professionals, cicerones (beer sommeliers), beer writers and others.

The state fair contest will come just a few months after Cuomo hosted a Taste NY Craft Beer Challenge in New York City. That contest, held May 17, began with a crowd-sourced, social media-driven poll to name the finalists, and then voting by a celebrity panel.

The New York State Craft Beer Competition, coordinated by the New York State Craft Brewers Association, is open to any craft brewer located in New York State. Brewers may enter more than one variety of beer and each entry is $45. Information and entry instructions.

The Excelsior Cup winner and other medal winners will be displayed in the Horticulture Building at the Fair, which runs this year from Aug. 23 to Sept. 4. There will also be a sampling booth and daily Taste NY wine and beer seminars.
The Typewriter Comeback

A post-World War I Corona typewriter.

(Russell Contreras | The Associated Press)

There's a small but dedicated community of typewriter enthusiasts in Upstate New York, and this weekend they're throwing their second annual festival celebrating typewriters and "letter arts."

The Festival of Type and Letter Arts is unlike any other. It features performances on typewriters, typewriter-produced art, literature and poetry, documentaries about typewriters and type face, type-ins and even a concert by the Boston Typewriter Orchestra.

Here's what that looks like:

This is the second annual festival after a successful event in 2016.

Dwight Grimm is one of the event's organizers. To perfect the event's vintage feel, Grimm holds it at the Greenville Drive-In in Greene County, which he owns and operates.

"It's analogous to fans of vinyl, really. It's a group of people who are embracing an archaic technology," Grimm told the Albany Times Union before last year's event.

Festival-goers are encouraged to bring their own, manual typewriters, though additional typewriters are available to use on a first come, first served basis.

The Details

When: Friday (6/23) from 6:30 p.m. to 10:15 p.m., Saturday (6/24) from 3:30 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.

Where: Greenville Drive-In, 10700 Rt. 32, Greenville, NY

Tickets: $10 for Friday Night ($5 for kids 15 and younger), $15 for Saturday ($8 for kids 15 and younger), $20 for Weekend Pass ($10 for kids 15 and younger). Tickets available on website

Highlights:
Syracuse, N.Y. -- After Teresa Woolson's son died from taking K2/Spice, a synthetic drug, it took nearly four years for the federal government to make it illegal to sell the drug.

Rep. John Katko ha introduced a House bill that he said would significantly cut the time it takes to identify and place synthetic drugs, like Spice, on the federal Controlled Substance list. Drugs on the list are more heavily regulated.



Woolson Monday joined Katko at a news conference at Crouse Hospital called to announce the proposed legislation that Katko introduced last week. They were joined by Syracuse Police Chief Frank Fowler and health officials.

Katko, R-Camillus, who represents the 24th District, likened the bill to a "Ferrari" because he said the law would speed up the process of placing a synthetic drug on the Controlled Substance list from years to as quickly as 30 days.



The Stop the Importation and Trafficking of Synthetic Analogues (SITSA) Act is companion legislation to a bill introduced in the Senate that has strong bipartisan support.



Synthetic drugs are created with chemical compounds that mimic controlled substances, such as marijuana. They are often packaged as incense and sold in head shops or convenience stores.



Currently by the time law enforcement deciphers a designer drug's chemical compound and sends it to Congress to be placed on the Controlled Substance list, the drug's creators have tweaked the compound making it no longer illegal.



If passed, the SITSA act would modernize the Controlled Substances Act, adding a special category for synthetic drugs called Schedule A.

The act also outlaws 13 synthetic fentanyls that have been identified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as an immediate threat to public health.

Then it gives the U.S. Attorney General the ability to temporarily or permanently add a synthetic drug to Schedule A, outlawing it.

The law would set penalties and streamline sentencing for manufacturing and selling synthetic drugs.





"Just a few weeks back we saw a record surge in synthetic drug overdoses in Syracuse. Sadly this has become all too commonplace in our community," Katko said.



In just one day in May, more than 15 people were taken to local emergency rooms for treatment of overdosing on synthetic pot.

Exclusive: Synthetic pot overdoses surge in Syracuse; over 15 taken to ERs in 24 hours



The legislation would be helpful for law enforcement because they won't have to wait so long for a synthetic drug to be listed as a controlled substance, said Rick Trunfio, Onondaga County's chief assistant district attorney.

"It's very helpful. We are getting flooded with synthetic drugs," he said.



Teresa Woolson said she knew her son, Victor, 19, was taking a substance that he bought legally at a store in Oswego. Woolson said she had just begun to research the substance Victor was taking when her son died in August 2012, from a fatal reaction to synthetic marijuana also known as K2/Spice, that was packaged as incense.



Woolson set up The Victor Orlando Woolson Foundation Inc. to raise the public's awareness about synthetic drugs.

It wasn't until almost four years after her son's death that the synthetic drug that killed him was placed on the federal government's controlled substance list, she said.



"This bill would create a much needed tool to help law enforcement stop the spread of deadly drugs in our country," she said.





Contact Charley Hannagan anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-2161.
earthian BHPian



Join Date: Jan 2016 Location: Ahmedabad Posts: 601 Thanked: 2,082 Times

Re: New proposal: Parking in Delhi might get tougher, more expensive An abhorrence to pay dues, tax.

An disproportionate majority of VIPs or 'connected' people.

Corruption, greed and a total lack of civic sense.

We can create congestion areas and levy tolls, taxes accordingly. Yes, we can make it electronic and easy to implement. BUT, we shall have drivers sitting in the cars just outside the zone ( at times, enjoying the air conditioned comfort of the cars - most of the times, the fuel would be paid by someone else, or the Government, or by the same stupid and crass owners who do not want to pay the small levy). Just take a look at most airports which levy a parking charge and you will know what i mean. In Ahmedabad, we have cars lined up, at times haphazardly, just before the toll booths waiting for their passengers to call them, so as to avoid the Rs 60 fee. It is another matter that the drivers sit inside in air conditioned comfort, burning up fuel and further adding to the emissions. Most of us who have drivers may be guilty of this.



The second one is easier to, um.. understand. Rules are meant for the neighbour, for the commoners, for everyone except likes of me. In Delhi, this is particularly glaring. Every one, and i do mean everyone, is connected. To the powers that be. And his immediate action would be to whip out his mobile and dial his 'connection' whilst spewing forth philosophical rants about the state of the Union. The 'babu's wife, out to Khan market to do a bit of speciality shopping for the important guest coming for dinner cannot be told to go walking. Not only would the car come within a stone's throw of the shop; but she would be accompanied by flunkeys who would ensure that she is not embarrassed by some stupid, unknowing, zealous policeman. ( Do we have any left?) How do we implement any rule when such behaviour is the norm?



And then we have the last issue: Corruption, greed. Where there are rules, there is an opportunity to make money. The tougher , the better.



While it may seem hopeless, in reality it has been proven that it can be done. Mindsets can be changed. We need to work on multiple dimensions. Teach them young, try and convert the 'convertible' and punish those that won't. A sustained programme over a generation or two would be needed. However, quick fixes and photo ops solutions, with an eye on the ensuing polls would not help. Surat was one of the dirtiest cities in India - which changed dramatically after the incidence of plague. Today Surat is cleaner than A'Bad.



The root cause is corruption and we need to tackle it with a long term solution. Good education is a starting point. Problem is that our Netas do not want it.



In the short term, apart from the solutions mentioned by our members- and viable solutions they are- we could add some more: Shifting of National level institutions, offices and such to othertowns and cities. RBI is head quartered at Mumbai, not Delhi. Gujarat Electricity Board (GUVNL) is headquartered at Vadodara, not Gandhinagar. Ahmedabad, Bhopal, B'lore (not B'lore, i hear you guys say?) Jaipur, Lucknow, Calcutta. We could shift one office to one State capital or town. But it would mean loss of revenue to some interested parties, and what happens if they are 'connected'? We could shift offices to suburbs and outskirts. This helps in overall city development too. We could bring about efficient and cost effective mass transport systems. Park your car at the multi level car park facility and jump into a tube for going to Sarojini Devi Nagar market. The cost of the parking + metro ticket should be less than the zonal toll cost. Pipe dream! Making the detection, processing and penalty of an offence as electronic as possible. Every car now comes with an RFID and such solutions are not difficult. Conduct road studies and design traffic movement to ensure smooth progress, within the limited road resources we have. We do not need to keep on increasing road capacities within the city- and it is not possible too- we need to regulate traffic flow better

Well, we could go on and on. In Ahmedabad, my daughter and her friends have started a movement for road safety. Early days yet, but promising to see youngsters keen on taking the issue into their hands. There is no easy solution to this one. We are grappling with three major issues:We can create congestion areas and levy tolls, taxes accordingly. Yes, we can make it electronic and easy to implement. BUT, we shall have drivers sitting in the cars just outside the zone ( at times, enjoying the air conditioned comfort of the cars - most of the times, the fuel would be paid by someone else, or the Government, or by the same stupid and crass owners who do not want to pay the small levy). Just take a look at most airports which levy a parking charge and you will know what i mean. In Ahmedabad, we have cars lined up, at times haphazardly, just before the toll booths waiting for their passengers to call them, so as to avoid the Rs 60 fee. It is another matter that the drivers sit inside in air conditioned comfort, burning up fuel and further adding to the emissions. Most of us who have drivers may be guilty of this.The second one is easier to, um.. understand. Rules are meant for the neighbour, for the commoners, for everyone except likes of me. In Delhi, this is particularly glaring. Every one, and i do mean everyone, is connected. To the powers that be. And his immediate action would be to whip out his mobile and dial his 'connection' whilst spewing forth philosophical rants about the state of the Union. The 'babu's wife, out to Khan market to do a bit of speciality shopping for the important guest coming for dinner cannot be told to go walking. Not only would the car come within a stone's throw of the shop; but she would be accompanied by flunkeys who would ensure that she is not embarrassed by some stupid, unknowing, zealous policeman. ( Do we have any left?) How do we implement any rule when such behaviour is the norm?And then we have the last issue: Corruption, greed. Where there are rules, there is an opportunity to make money. The tougher , the better.While it may seem hopeless, in reality it has been proven that it can be done. Mindsets can be changed. We need to work on multiple dimensions. Teach them young, try and convert the 'convertible' and punish those that won't. A sustained programme over a generation or two would be needed. However, quick fixes and photo ops solutions, with an eye on the ensuing polls would not help. Surat was one of the dirtiest cities in India - which changed dramatically after the incidence of plague. Today Surat is cleaner than A'Bad.The root cause is corruption and we need to tackle it with a long term solution. Good education is a starting point. Problem is that our Netas do not want it.In the short term, apart from the solutions mentioned by our members- and viable solutions they are- we could add some more:Well, we could go on and on. In Ahmedabad, my daughter and her friends have started a movement for road safety. Early days yet, but promising to see youngsterson taking the issue into their hands.
I was at Qualcomm last week, listening to an economist talk about Apples complaints that Qualcomm had charged Apple too much for access to patents. What I thought was fascinating was that Apple had folks focused on the 5 percent that Qualcomm had charged it instead of on the massive profit that Apple made on each phone.

The price of the iPhone 8 is rumored to be well over US$1,000  but it could cost well under $500 to build. (Check out this WSJ video on how you can build a decent smartphone for less than $70 in China.)

All other smartphone prices seem to be trending down, while Apples appear to be trending up. This near-magical behavior is an example of expert manipulation, and in a world of fake news, its suddenly a more interesting topic to cover. (It also suggests that Apples level of control over its customer base could be an anti-customer, if not an antitrust, problem.)

Oh, and thats on top of the issues that may prevent the iPhone from being shipped in the first place.

Ill use Apple as an example to illustrate the art of manipulation and misdirection  although its hardly the only one that engages in it. Ill close with my product of the week: a new router from Symantec that may be the perfect thing for securing your home in a hostile world.

Art Appreciation

Theres an art to manipulation and misdirection. I first became aware of this skill in college while doing my undergraduate work. One of the modules in a class I took on manpower management was on manipulators  people who were good at getting people to do things for them, changing minds, and generally, well, manipulating others.

There was a test for measuring this skill, and the scoring range was 1-20. Anyone who scored more than 12 had a high inherent ability to manipulate, according to the test. One poor guy scored 15 and everyone in the class made fun of him. However, there was another student who scored 17, and no one even noticed. He was the one who focused the rest of us on the guy who scored 15  and he didnt even know he was doing it.

People with this skill often end up in marketing where their ability is valued and utilized. If you are observant, however, youll see the same skill applied by friends, family and coworkers  both to accomplish their unique goals and often just to mess with people. Surprisingly, the person doing it often doesnt even seem aware of the behavior.

The Talented Steve Jobs

The most powerful natural manipulator Ive ever seen was Steve Jobs (much of what Im talking about is covered in the book iCon Steve Jobs: The Greatest Second Act in the History of Business). Jobs changed a lot in skill level from when he first helped found Apple to his return to the company. At first, he seemed to be unaware he was doing it. Sometime between when he was fired from the company and his comeback, he became an expert.

Before he left, there were stories of all the drama that seemed to go on around him, which often is one of the indicators of a manipulator operating on autopilot. They tend to enjoy getting people worked up and often havent yet realized that to be effective they need to be very subtle. Jobs wasnt, and eventually he overreached and got himself fired.

When he came back, though, he seemed able to get what he wanted without as much drama. Things just seemed to fall into place magically, and his skills at marketing blossomed.

For example, Apples product line sucked at the time, and prior to coming back to the company, Jobs had been outspoken about that. After getting the job, he immediately reversed himself and praised the products, becoming their greatest advocate.

Throughout his time, he successfully prevented strong challengers for the iPod from HP and Dell, and disparaged the Microsoft Zune so successfully  characterizing as stupid unique compelling advantages like video playback (which the iPod back then didnt have)  that the iPod largely remained unchallenged by anything but the iPhone.

Even with the iPhone, he caught the market flatfooted. The first iPhone was basically an iPod with poor phone features, but Jobs convinced massive numbers of people they had to have it long before it was really a competitive product. He achieved that through a combination of brilliant placement, advertising, and a very nice  but largely cosmetic  design.

While Jobs is no longer at Apple  and I really dont see anyone there with his kind of manipulative genius  the firm clearly is still operating like it can control hearts and minds. However, without a hit since the iPad, it should be becoming clear to most that post-Jobs Apple doesnt have the capability that Steve Jobs Apple had in spades.

Apple vs. Qualcomm

While the Apple vs. Qualcomm fight seems to be about pricing, it is potentially much more than that for Apple. This is largely because most people still see Apple the way it was and not the way it is. Otherwise, its market valuation would have fallen sharply.

I saw this when Steve Ballmer ran Microsoft. It held value for a long time, but when Steve tried to buy Yahoo  something that appeared to most to be incredibly stupid  the market suddenly realized that Steves Microsoft and Bills Microsoft were very different  and even though Microsofts financial performance was stable for the most part, its valuation fell like a rock.

To hold, Tim Cook cant have a moment like Steve Ballmer did at Microsoft, when people suddenly open their eyes and realize that Apple doesnt seem capable of producing hits  or worse, when Apples only differentiator is that it is far more expensive than the rest. To be clear, that was pretty close to what Apple almost became before Steve Jobs came back and saved the firm.

This lawsuit with Qualcomm is forcing a lot of folks to look at Apples falling quality, to start looking at the problems with their Apple devices as less unique and more endemic of that falling quality, and to start seeing Apple as having shifted too sharply from being focused on creating magic for customers to being far too focused on increasing margins.

At the very least, its forcing people to realize that Apple is shifting from using the best technology in its very high-priced products to trying to cover up that the devices arent very competitive anymore in either capability or price.

Like the Apple Watch, the new HomePod appears to be just a different expensive spin on an existing market  unique only because of its high price and connection to Apples ecosystem. Even in Apple accounts, the Amazon Echo is surveying as the more popular product  and outside of Apple accounts, the HomePod almost falls beneath consideration.

In short, the products clearly art showcasing that Apple has weakened significantly, but the disclosures from the Qualcomm lawsuit could become the trigger that finally gets people to look at the company differently  much like Yahoo did for Microsoft.

Wrapping Up: Trump

Its hard to write anything about manipulation and misdirection without mentioning our president, who seems also to be a natural at it. However, unlike old Jobs, he seems to do a lot of it without focus or purpose, which is why so many of the problems President Trump is dealing with seem to be self-created. It is this contrast between the older Jobs and President Trump I want to leave you with.

Manipulators can be incredibly powerful tools or they can be self-destructing disasters depending on their focus and maturity. Young Steve Jobs was the latter, old Steve Jobs the former, and he clearly made Apple great again. President Trump has the core capability, but he currently lacks the maturing experience that, ironically, I think Jobs got as a result of being fired from Apple.

Apple either needs to recreate the capability it lost when Jobs died, or stop tempting fate by taking risks that will cause people to see the company differently. As Steve Ballmer discovered, once the market corrects, the eventual outcome is not a great one for the career of the CEO or the image of the firm.

One final thought: At some point, manipulators need to realize that without good goals theyll end badly, and the rest of us have to decide if were OK with being manipulated. In this age of fake news from all sides, Im wondering how many of us have made an unfortunate decision in this regard, by accident.

We live in a very hostile world, and back at CES I saw one product that I thought addressed best the kind of threats we now face as homeowners or owners of small businesses. Symantec announced a high-performance router, the Norton Core Router, that not only provided distributed wireless networking but also incorporated a comprehensive security solution.

NortonCore Router

Using a combination of Qualcomms advanced wireless networking technology and Symantecs antimalware resources, you could have one product and a subscription that, on paper, should keep your home or small business not only well connected with the highest speed 4X4 MU-MIMO technology  providing speeds that rival what you can get with wired connections  but also better protected, ensuring your connected devices arent infected by viruses or otherwise used against you. The system just became available for preorder at a $30-off price of $249.

It isnt even bad looking, with a design that could allow you to put it in a far more visible and advantageous networking position than in a cabinet or in a closet (if your wiring allows it). We need more comprehensive solutions like this if we are going to protect our ever-more-connected homes from an ever-more-hostile world. As a result, the Norton Core Router is my product of the week.


In the wake of a series of terrorist attacks, governments around the world have been calling for a way to access people's communications data as part of investigations. It's been the topic of hot discussion, and while some are keen to weaken encryption by building in backdoors into apps and devices, the European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs is looking to make that illegal.

The proposed amendment relates to Article 7 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union ("the Charter"), which protects the fundamental right of everyone to the respect for his or her private and family life, home and communication. The Committee argues that this principle of confidentiality should apply to all current and future means of communication.

"Decryption, reverse engineering or monitoring of such communications shall be prohibited", and EU member states shall not demand backdoors from communications providers, the proposal reads. It also argues that not only the content of communications needs to be protected, but also the metadata associated with it, including numbers called, websites visited, geographical location, the time, date and duration of calls, which might otherwise reveal details about the private lives of the people involved.

The amendment still has to be approved by Parliament and then reviewed by the EU Council, so it's possible it will be turned down or softened if and when it is passed into law.

Governments around the world including Germany, Australia, the U.S. and U.K have been pushing for legislation to grant them access to people's communications to tackle terrorism. However, as people with technical knowledge on the matter will tell you, this will only put millions of people at risk for identity theft, bank, credit card fraud and more without doing much to help fight terrorism.
The Supreme Court on Monday ruled that a North Carolina law banning registered sex offenders from social media sites like Facebook and Twitter is unconstitutional.

The case was brought about by Lester Gerard Packingham. In 2002, Packingham - then a 21-year-old college student - had sex with a 13-year-old girl and ultimately pleaded guilty to "taking indecent liberties with a child." As a result, he was required to register as a sex offender which, among other restrictions, barred him from accessing commercial social networking sites.

In 2010, Packingham had a traffic ticket dismissed and boasted about the event on Facebook. This garnered the attention of the Durham Police Department which led to Packingham being indicted by a grand jury for violating the social media ban. He appealed the conviction on the grounds that it violated the First Amendment all the way up to the Supreme Court.

Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in the court's decision that this is one of the first cases the court has taken to address the relationship between the First Amendment and the modern Internet.

Kennedy said that to foreclose access to social media altogether is to prevent the user from engaging in the legitimate exercise of First Amendment rights. The Justice added that even convicted criminals - and in some instances, especially convicted criminals - might receive legitimate benefits from these means for access to the world of ideas, in particular if they seek to reform and to pursue lawful and rewarding lives.

Photo courtesy Getty Images
Federal regulators have given Mylan's EpiPen a new competitor as they green-lighted a cheaper alternative to the emergency allergy medicine.

The FDA on Thursday, June 15, gave its approval to Adamis Pharmaceuticals Corp.'s Symjepi, which is set to be available for sale later this year.

Epinephrine And Potentially Deadly Allergic Reactions

Just like EpiPen, Symjepi is a syringe that contains the hormone epinephrine to help stop potentially deadly allergic reactions.

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, can counteract the symptoms of anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction, by opening the airways to reduce breathing difficulties and swelling of the blood vessels.

The most common anaphylactic reactions are to insect stings, latex, medications and food. Up to 8 percent of children in the United States have food allergy, and about 38 percent of those with food allergy have had severe reactions. An epinephrine autoinjector serves as a lifeline for these people.

San Diego-based Adamis claims that its version of the allergy medicine is easier to use compared with EpiPen. The newly approved product is also smaller than EpiPen, which makes it easier to fit and carry in a purse or pocket. Just like EpiPen, Adamis's product will be sold in pairs.

Symjepi As Cheaper Alternative To EpiPen

Adamis said that it has not yet set the exact price for Symjepi. Adamis spokesperson Mark Flather, however, said that the company intends to offer the product as a low-cost alternative to Mylan's autoinjector and that it aims to make it available for less than the price of generic EpiPens.

"With an anticipated lower cost, small size and user-friendly design, we believe Symjepi could be an attractive option for a significant portion of both the retail (patient) and non-retail (professional) sectors of the epinephrine market," Adamis CEO Dennis Carlo said in a statement.

Adamis is also preparing to apply for approval of a junior version of its epinephrine injector, which will contain a lesser amount of epinephrine. Symjepi's junior version is set to compete with Mylan's EpiPen Jr.

Rising Cost Of EpiPens

EpiPens currently sell between $630 and $700 without insurance, and the new generic version is sold for about $225 to $425. The generic versions were launched last year to curtail mounting criticisms over the rising price of EpiPens.

A pair of EpiPens sold for only $94 in 2007 but the price skyrocketed to $608 last year. A pair of these devices is estimated to cost less than $20 to produce. What makes the purchase of EpiPens more burdensome is that these devices have to be replaced each year even though these may still work four years after their expiry date.

Mylan's Cash Cow

EpiPen is essentially a cash cow for Mylan, accounting for about 40 percent of the company's operating profits. In 2015 alone, about 3.6 million prescriptions were written for EpiPen.

Although EpiPen has other rival products, doctors are more likely to prescribe it. Pharmaceutical analytics company QuintilesIMS said that three years ago, EpiPens accounted for almost 90 percent of prescriptions filled in the country for epinephrine injectors and syringes.

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Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, holder of 23 Olympic gold medals and 39 world records, will compete against a shark in an upcoming Discovery program during its popular Shark Week series.

You read that right  Phelps will attempt to outswim a great white shark.

The cable channel confirmed the seemingly absurd race in a news release Thursday, June 15.

"He is our greatest champion to ever get in the water: Michael Phelps," according to Discovery. "But he has one competition left to win. An event so monumental no one has ever attempted it before."

Specific details about the race, including what style or technique of swimming Phelps will employ to try and beat the great white shark or where the race will be held, remain as questions. Discovery did confirm that the race, Phelps vs. Shark: Great Gold vs. Great White, will air on July 23.

Michael Phelps vs Great White Shark: Can Phelps Pull It Off?

Discovery's much-beloved Shark Week will officially kick off with Phelps, who later in the week will join scientists to discuss shark myths  and then go against the hammerhead.

As The Washington Post points out, taping of the high-stake race may have already happened. Phelps also recently posted a photo on Instagram featuring a shark in the water, captioning it with a note that said he has finally done what he'd always wanted to do: "Be in a cage and dive with great White sharks !! #bucketlist." The photo portends Phelps has indeed been in close encounter with a shark, but it remains a question whether the race will put the two competitors  man vs. animal  in the same body of water.

We're not fully getting the logistics of the race to make early predictions, but Phelps, as exemplary an athlete as he is  probably one of his generation's best, in fact  likely can't outpace a great white shark in its natural habitat.

Michael Phelps vs Great White Shark: In Terms Of Speed

ESPN put Phelps's top speed at 6 miles per hour; large sharks can swim at an average of 1.5 miles per hour. White sharks, on the other hand, can swim at an estimated 25 miles per hour, according data by ReefQuest Center for Shark Research. Based solely on the numbers, you can probably see how this race will turn out.

In all fairness, ESPN recorded Phelps's top speed in 2010, and there's no telling whether the Olympic medalist has since become faster in the water or not. That said, even more telling of Phelps's potential loss in the forthcoming race is a 2008 study claiming he swims slower than a goldfish.

Those points aside, no one can dispute that Phelps racing against a great white shark makes for excellent cable programming, regardless of whoever emerges victorious. For now, we're betting on the shark winning the race based on current data, but points are due for Phelps for being a great sport despite him probably losing this one.

Thoughts about Phelps racing against a great white shark? Who do you think will win? Feel free to sound off in the comments section below!

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From the Utah desert erupted a plume of both fire and smoke last June 15, as aerospace company Orbital ATK successfully conducted a ground firing test of a rocket motor created for NASAs Orion human spacecraft.

The abort motor forms part of Orions Launch Abort System (LAS), deemed a breakthrough in spaceflight safety as it would bring the crew capsule back to safety once something goes haywire or malfunctions with the primary rocket.

Launch Details

The static test fire was held on time at 3 p.m. EDT at Orbital ATKs facility in Corine, Utah. The motors specially designed test stand led the desired columns of flame to shoot from the engines four nozzles toward the sky and to reach an anticipated 100-feet height.

We at Orbital ATK are very proud to work with NASA and Lockheed Martin on the Orion Launch Abort System, and to provide a motor that is so integral to astronaut safety. The importance of our crews safety and well-being cant be stressed enough, said Charlie Precourt, VP and general manager of propulsion systems at Orbital ATK.

This company also designs and builds the twin solid rocket boosters for the Space Launch System (SLS), NASAs next-gen heavy-lift rocket.

In a Space.com report, Orbital ATKs launch abort motor program director Steve Sara dubbed it a great test. The test lasted five seconds or the length of the time that the engine needs to fire during an emergency situation.

The abort system will hurl the Orion spacecraft away from the SLS rocket in case the latter explodes.

According to Orbital ATK, the abort motor stands over 17 feet, spans 3 feet in diameter, and could provide 400,000 pounds of thrust in a mere 0.125 seconds. Boasting of a manifold with four exhaust nozzles, it can jettison the crew capsule to up to 300,000 feet high.

The test also comprised a greater number of acoustic sensors versus earlier tests, as acoustic vibrations from the engine are proven hostile to other systems onboard the Orion. Data from the test will prompt engineers to adapt the Orions systems accordingly.

Toward NASAs Space Ambitions

The milestone is considered a step closer to Orions first flight on top of the SLS, Exploration Mission-1 (EM-1), and helping NASA astronauts reach the moon, planet Mars, and other places beyond low-Earth orbit.

The first in a series, the abort motor test will be followed by two more that will occur in late 2018 and in 2019. The latter, called the Ascent Abort-2 Flight Test (AA-2), will test flight conditions and will involve a mock spacecraft and a rocket to play the role of an SLS rocket.

NASA announced that the Orion spacecraft will be sent on an unmanned journey around the moon in 2019, which will also mark the maiden test flight of the SLS.

While it had an earlier plan of a crewed mission, the agency said it is already too late into the mission planning schedule to accommodate changes from its original intent for the EM-1, which was designed for an uncrewed first flight for testing the entire systems capabilities.

The unmanned Orion mission is expected to last about three weeks.

"After weighing the data and assessing all implications, the agency will continue pursuing the original plan for the first launch, as a rigorous flight test of the integrated systems without crew," stated NASA officials.

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If you're on the East coast, you might be able to watch a spectacular treat from NASA on Father's Day. The space agency is planning to perform a much-anticipated light show on Sunday night after postponing the launch several times.

What's The Light Show For?

NASA will lift off its Terrier-Improved Malamute rocket, which will shoot colorful clouds across the night sky, on June 18 from 9:05 p.m. to 9:20 p.m. EDT. NASA's Malamute is a multi-canister system that ejects ampoules capable of forming artificial clouds.

However, these colorful clouds are not merely for show. The launch will allow scientists to gather information on a much larger area than what they were capable during a previous mission.

In fact, the light show will help NASA track particle motions in space. It is one of the many missions in a global initiative called "Grand Challenge," which aims to help researchers study two cusps or gaping holes in the magnetic field of Earth. According to Astronomy Now, these two holes leak almost 100 tons of air every day.

Although our planet won't run out of air soon, the Father's Day mission is important because scientists have yet to understand how the cusps on Earth's magnetic field work.

When the vapor tracers are released into the ionosphere, it will reveal how clouds move in that region. This may help experts better understand phenomena such as geomagnetic storms and auroras.

Details Behind the Launch

The launch was initially planned for May 31, but it has since then been scrubbed seven times because of poor visibility and unconducive conditions such as cloudy skies, high winds, and boats in the hazard area, NASA said.

During Sunday night's ascent, the rocket will release red and blue-green vapor that will create colorful clouds four or five minutes after the launch. These colorful lights or vapor tracers are formed when strontium, cupric-oxide, and barium interact.

"They're made of aluminum and about the size of a Coke can," said Keith Koehler, spokesperson from NASA.

Once the rocket is launched, these vapor tracers will be released at altitudes 96 to 124 miles high. It will pose no danger to residents in the mid-Atlantic coast. The payload will land in the Atlantic Ocean and will not be recovered.

How To Watch

Several ground cameras are stationed in Duck, North Carolina and at the Wallops Flight Facility in Wattsville, Virginia to view the vapor tracers. The light show will be visible from North Carolina to New York, and westward to Charlottesville, Virginia. Clear skies are required at the ground stations for this test.

If you aren't residing on the East coast, you can watch the live coverage of the mission on the Wallops Ustream site. NASA will also do a Facebook live beginning at 8:50 p.m. EDT.

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China is making strides in its space program. The East Asian nation has just launched its first X-ray space telescope designed to observe pulsars, gamma-ray bursts, and black holes.

Four Major Probes

On Friday, June 16, the country's State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence revealed that China will also launch four more space probes before 2021 in the nation's efforts to develop space science.

The China-Italy Electromagnetic Monitoring Experiment Satellite, which will study phenomena linked to earthquakes, is set for launch in August.

The China-France Oceanography Satellite, which will conduct studies on ocean-surface wind and waves, is set for launch next year. Data gathered by this mission is expected to improve the forecasts for ocean waves and boost efficiency in preventing and mitigating disasters.

An astronomical satellite that China developed in collaboration with France will be launched in 2021. The satellite will gather data on gamma rays and those that can shed light on dark energy and how the universe evolved.

The country's first Mars probe is also expected to launch in 2020. The probe will carry out orbiting and roving exploration on the Red Planet.

National Space Administration deputy chief Wu Yanhua earlier revealed that this will be followed by a second mission that involves collecting surface samples from Mars.

Other Plans

The launch of the four probes will be China's major missions for its space program following the launch of the country's first X-ray space telescope, the Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope, on Thursday, June 15, but China has more plans.

In the coming years, it will have a lunar mission and even considers sending a mission to the Jupiter system.

What makes the planned lunar mission different from earlier missions launched by other countries and China itself is that it will be the first to explore the dark side of the Earth's natural satellite.

"China will actively conduct international cooperation in areas including lunar and Mars probes, manned space missions and space environment exploration," said the administration's system engineering department deputy director Zhao Jian.

Latecomer In Space Race

China's plans show how it is making up for it being a latecomer in the global space race. The country did not send its first space satellite until 1970, after the United States has successfully sent a manned mission to the moon.

China, however, has since pumped billions of dollars and other resources into its space science research and training. It has so far landed a probe on the lunar surface and launched a space lab that it hopes could pave way for a space station. The country has also managed to send five crews into space.

"Our overall goal is that, by around 2030, China will be among the major space powers of the world," Wu Yanhua recently said.

Not Just China

Besides China, another country making waves in the field of space science is India. Earlier this year, the Indian Space Research Organisation made a record by launching 104 satellites into space in one mission.

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As a sign of protest, six top members of Donald Trump's Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) have resigned on Tuesday, June 13, saying "Trump doesn't care about HIV. We're outta here."

In a letter published by Newsweek, the six members  including Scott Schoettes, Gina Brown, Michelle Ogle, Grissel Granados, Lucy Bradley-Springer, and Ulysses Burley III  addressed concerns that the president doesn't seem to have a strategy in combatting HIV/AIDS in the United States, among many other misgivings.

"Because we do not believe the Trump Administration is listening toor caresabout the communities we serve as members of PACHA, we have decided it is time to step down," the members wrote.

Fight Against HIV/AIDS

Schoettes, who is Counsel and HIV Project Director at the LGBTQ group Lambda Legal, led the resignation and lambasted Trump for his lack of policies on HIV/AIDS.

In the United States, only 40 percent of people with HIV have access to life-saving medications that have existed for more than two decades.

However, the Trump administration is not aware of these realities. In fact, the current administration has no plan to address the on-going HIV epidemic, does not consult experts to formulate policy, and pushes legislation that will be harmful for people living with HIV or reverse significant gains made in the campaign against this disease, Schoettes said.

As such, Schoettes and five other council members, all of whom have dedicated their lives in the treatment of HIV/AIDS patients, believe that they can do so effectively outside the confines of the president's advisory council.

"We cannot ignore the many signs that the Trump Administration does not take the on-going epidemic or the needs of people living with HIV seriously," the members said.

Reversing Gains

The president's lack of concern over HIV/AIDS was apparent during the campaign period, said Schoettes. While Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders met up with HIV advocates, Trump refused to do so.

He also took down the website of the Office of National AIDS policy on the same day he took office. There has been no replacement for this website 132 days into his term.

Furthermore, the president has yet to appoint anyone to lead this same office  a position that held a seat on the Domestic Policy Council under President Barack Obama. As of writing, no one in the White House is tasked to bring up salient issues regarding HIV/AIDS to the attention of the president.

The group's letter also singled out the Trump administration's efforts to scale back the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which has led to important gains in the lives of people with HIV. Replacing and repealing ACA with the American Health Care Act would devastate people with HIV, Schoettes said.

What Happens Now?

Now, 15 other members remain at PACHA. AIDS activists in the United States believe the resignation should have been a mass protest, given the Trump's administration's "willful negligence" on the issue.

"It's very obvious this administration is not going to use PACHA or do anything around HIV/AIDS," said activist Peter Staley. "Protest is the only response we have at this point."

Meanwhile, Schoettes and his five other colleagues are hoping that members of Congress who can influence healthcare will engage with them in a way that Trump and his cabinet apparently will not.

The White House has yet to respond to the council members' resignations.

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A grassroots effort in Colorado seeks to ban retailers from selling smartphones for use by children below 13 years old. The campaign aims to stop young kids from spending too much time on these devices.

No Sale Of Smartphones For Use By Kids Below 13 Years Of Age

The ban would require phone retailers to ask their customers how old the primary user of the smartphone is. The retailers who sell phones intended for children younger than 13 could face a fine of $500 after warning.

"Retailers must verbally inquire about the age of the intended primary owner of the smartphone prior to the sale, document the response, and file a monthly report to the Department of Revenue," the proposal states.

The campaign is led by Tim Farnum, a board certified anesthesiologist, who has said that children change once they get a cellphone.

"They go from being outgoing, energetic, interested in the world and happy, to reclusive, they want to spend all their time in their room, they lose interest in outside activities." Farnum said adding that toddlers may even experience speech and language difficulties as a result of constantly looking at screens.

"Eventually kids are going to get phones and join the world, and I think we all know that, but little children, there's just no good that comes from that."

Farnum said that his campaign was inspired after he watched his own kids struggle with the impact of always having a device in their hands.

About 300,000 voters' signatures are needed so the proposal would make the 2018 ballot but as early as now, the idea already faces challenges. Democratic state Sen. John Kefalas, for instance, said that he understands the reasoning behind the proposal but noted that it would overstep the role of the government.

"I think it should remain a family matter," Kefalas said. "Ultimately, this comes down to parents ... making sure their kids are not putting themselves at risk."

Risks Posed By Touchscreen Devices To Children

Farnum's concerns, though, is not unfounded. Several studies have already shown the dangers of kids' use of devices.

A research published in March showed that more than three hours of regular screen use can pose a range of health risks including the onset of diabetes in young children.

In a 2016 study, researchers found that parents who hand over mobile devices such as smartphones and iPads to children who are having tantrums could inflict developmental damages to their children. Too much use of devices in young children can interfere in the development of skills that children need to possess. Instead of developing coping mechanisms, problem solving skills, and empathy, which can be acquired through interactions with other people, children with devices are glued to the screens.

In another study, which involved children between 6 and 36 months who are exposed to touchscreen devices, researchers found that frequent touchscreen use can impact the sleeping patterns of these children. Researchers of another research found that use of tablets and smartphones in bed can double the risk of poor sleep in children.

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Samsung is reportedly having technical issues with its plan of embedding the fingerprint scanner underneath the display of the upcoming Galaxy Note 8, and an industry insider has finally revealed what exactly the problem is.

The location of the fingerprint scanner at the back of the Galaxy S8 is one of the main criticisms against the smartphone, as its position beside the camera lens made it awkward to reach and opened the risk of fingers causing constant smudges on the lens. Will Samsung repeat the Galaxy S8 design flaw with the Galaxy Note 8?

Embedded Galaxy Note 8 Fingerprint Scanner Causing Brightness Issues

According to an industry insider, Samsung is struggling to figure out how to embed the Galaxy Note 8's fingerprint scanner under its display due to brightness issues.

A render uploaded by the insider showed the problem that Samsung is facing, with the fingerprint scanner causing brightness imbalance on the Galaxy Note 8 to display that leaves a discernible mark on where the sensor is located.

Samsung is having trouble finding the right balance in brightness for the Galaxy Note 8's screen when the fingerprint sensors are integrated. It is unclear, however, if the brightness of the fingerprint scanner as it appears on the screen is as pronounced as what is seen in the insider's renders.

Where Will The Galaxy Note 8 Fingerprint Scanner Be Located?

There is no information on whether Samsung has been able to move past the problem. There have been reports that the company has created working prototypes that feature perfectly balanced displays with in-screen fingerprint scanners, but it is unclear if the design will be what appears on the Galaxy Note 8 or if the company will push back the launch of the feature to next year's Galaxy S9.

Samsung is expected to announce the Galaxy Note 8 at IFA 2017, which will be held in Berlin starting Sept. 1. The question, however, is whether the smartphone will have its fingerprint scanner embedded under its display or at the back, similar to the Galaxy S8.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Samsung decided not to integrate the fingerprint scanner into the Galaxy Note 8's screen due to technical limitations such as security. This comes despite the company's best efforts to find a solution to its problem.

The latest schematic from SlashLeaks, meanwhile, reveals that Samsung has at least shifted the position of the fingerprint scanner at the back of the Galaxy Note 8. Instead of placing the feature beside the camera lens, the schematic shows that the fingerprint scanner will be located below the camera lens. Such a position would make it easier to reach for users and will reduce the chances that users will smudge their camera lens with their fingers.

If Samsung will indeed announce the Galaxy Note 8 at IFA 2017, it is likely already making the final touches on the smartphone. We will know for sure where the smartphone's fingerprint scanner will be located in a couple of months, as well as if the Galaxy Note 8 will help Samsung bounce back from the failure of the Galaxy Note 7.

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The deep sea once again exceeds expectations and reveals new, unique species home to the deep, dark, and largely unexplored abyss.

Theres a bizarre creature called the peanut worm found by a team from Museums Victoria in Australia, as they just came back from their month-long expedition into the ocean off the Australian coast. Their discoveries also include a faceless fish, a zombie worm, and other spineless, faceless animals not yet previously encountered by science.

Finding The Ugly And The Bizarre

Throughout June, the team were onboard their research vessel The Investigator, exploring a habitat 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) below sea called the eastern abyss.

Among those uncovered is the peanut worm, which also notable for closely resembling the human penis. Its name came from the fact that once threatened, the animal  which can reproduce sexually and asexually  can contract its long head inward, and then resemble a peanut.

The team also rediscovered the faceless fish, a deep sea fish without visible eyes and has only a mouth hidden underneath the head. Discovered in 1873, the creature had never been spotted again until now. Today, around a third of the species that the team brought back had never been seen before, and will then be sent to Australian laboratories for further probe.

Other interesting deep-sea finds include the red coffinfish, with bluish eyes and red feet; the blob fish, deemed the worlds ugliest animal; the cookie cutter shark, a little bioluminescent one with neatly arranged serrated teeth; the red spiny crab, which is related to hermit crabs but isnt really a crab itself; and a range of flesh-eating crustaceans and microscopic critters.

Missions Significance

The team of 58 scientists, technicians, and crew ventured into the abyss for a good reason.

Australias deep-see environment is larger in size than the mainland, and until now, almost nothing was known about life on the abyssal plain, explained chief scientist Dr. Tim OHara, expressing excitement over their discoveries and sharing them to the global public.

Some of the strange-looking creatures, for instance, will be exhibited at Museums Victoria in the following months, while others will be stored in its natural science collection.

The month-long mission also sought to investigate the pollution that may be occurring on the sea floor, including microplastics lying on the ocean surface.

The team saw bottles, PVC pipes, beer cans, and highly concerning levels of rubbish on the seafloor, warned OHara, hoping the information could influence attitudes toward waste disposal.

Data from their expedition, too, will inform researchers and government on long-term deep sea protection through an accurate mapping of the seafloor. Maps from sonar as well as underwater camera vision disclosed a diverse terrain of mountains, canyons, and rocky plains under the sea.

Further analysis will tell the scientists more about the weird, wonderful deep sea creatures and how to better protect their less-researched habitat.

Separate deep-sea expeditions that revealed new and curious creatures, such as an eerie-looking cosmic jellyfish, include a dive of the U.S. National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the remote American Samoa region of the Pacific. The mission sought to hold one of the first expansive probes of the 13,581-square mile marine sanctuary comprising the seamount.

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When corporate reputations are damaged in todays unforgiving culture, individuals in corporate leadership take the heat as stakeholders seek satisfaction through blaming, shaming and directing their anger and disappointment toward the most visible personification of the company they can find  usually meaning the CEO.

Companies in the telecommunications industry are always targets for reputational attacks. Their networks are the backbone of our entire society. Virtually every business and consumer relies on them in one way or another and our personal activities have become dependent on them. That dependency makes the industry a particularly good target, and every major player is devoting significant resources to protecting itself and its customers from malicious attacks.

But incidents are bound to happen and every company in the field recognizes it. Verizon, for example, counts among the potential risks it lists in SEC filings as breaches of network or information technology security  a statement with which every one of its competitors would doubtless agree. Verizon will undoubtedly face a unique level of scrutiny in coming months as it completes its acquisition of Yahoo! Inc., which has had serious reputational issues as a result of recent cybersecurity attacks that compromised a reported 1 billion accounts.

But reputational crises today have taken on new dimensions. A recent study by Steel City Re, which analyzes reputational risk and provides insurance products to protect companies and their leadership, found that financial losses related to reputational attacks have increased by over 400 percent in the past five years  and that upward trend is continuing.

The same study found an increase in generalized anger among the public and an increased tendency for interested parties, ranging from politicians to activist investors, to direct that anger toward individuals  meaning CEOs and senior management as well as boards of directors. As more and more directors lose their seats and their compensation in the wake of corporate reputational crises, boards seem to be finding a convenient way of relieving the pressure  by casting their eyes toward a more prominent target, namely the CEO.

In this era of weaponized social media, generalized anger and boards increasingly intimidated by activists, CEOs are in the crosshairs like never before. We need look no further than the daily media coverage to find examples. The Wall Street Journals prominent headline, for example: Activist Investors Have a New Bloodlust: CEOs.

To defend against such attacks, CEOs could talk about their value-protecting governance, risk and compliance (GRC) investment leadership and hopefully mitigate an activist-initiated reputation crisis. But as Elliott Managements Jeff Ubben noted in the Financial Times,  when you [the CEO] do strike back, youre fired. And as Marco Amitrano, head of consulting at PwC UK, told the Financial Times, CEOs face an unforgiving business environment.

Consider the plight of CEO Gavin Patterson at BT Group. It has been a tumultuous year for the telecoms group, which kicked off 2017 with a profit warning triggered by an accounting scandal in Italy and a collapse in orders in its public sector business. That was followed by a record 42m fine from regulator Ofcom related to past issues. Pattersons pay was cut by 4m for the year and he waived his 2017 bonus. BT also clawed back bonuses previously paid out to Patterson to reflect lower profit expectations.

More evidence of the shakier ground on which CEOs find themselves:

Fewer CEOs are chairing boards. According to data analytics firm Equilar, among S&P 500 companies, 35.1 percent now have a non-executive chairman, up from 27.7 percent in 2012.

Boards are being tougher on CEOs generally, adopting measures like say on pay, shorter tenures and threats of compensation claw backs as punishment for setbacks. That sets the stage for CEOs to find themselves walking a very lonely plank when their companies face public crises.

The result: CEOs are turning over in greater numbers. In 2016, according to SpencerStuart, 58 of the S&P 500s CEOs transitioned, although not all were pushed out following crises. That is the highest number since 2006, a 13 percent increase over 2015, and a 57 percent increase over 2012.

And as weve seen on countless occasions, while large companies and their well-supported brands almost always recover, individuals do not. When individuals, be they CEOs or Directors, take a major reputational hit, it sticks. And it can affect careers and compensation for many years into the future.

These risks are exacerbated, ironically, by societal trends that could not exist without the telecommunications industry. Social media, simultaneously the chosen outlet for public anger and the tool for building brand equity and customer loyalty, cuts both ways. A false tweet can become Internet phenomena, fake news is difficult to distinguish from real news and elected officials seek to bolster their own standing by using social media to harness public anger against corporate America. The telecom industry is as susceptible to these threats as any and it needs to treat reputation  corporate brands and individual corporate leaders  as a strategic priority.

Finally, CEOs need new tools to protect themselves and their companies. D&O liability insurance was once a badge of good governance, but it holds no standing in the court of public opinion and is useless in deterring these kinds of reputational attacks or providing any kind of insulation or indemnification when they occur.

They need third party warranties and endorsements that serve like a security sign on the front lawn, warning intruders and deterring attacks in the first place. Those warranties need to come with credible and transparent analysis demonstrating the companys good governance and providing a positive alternative narrative to repel any attacks that do occur. And because telecom executives live in a world where technology is constantly advancing and attackers are relentless, they need indemnification to compensate for losses that affect their companies and themselves personally.

About the Author

Dr. Nir Kossovsky is CEO of Steel City Re, which analyzes the reputational strength and resilience of companies and provides insurance products that protect those companies, their officers and directors against financial losses when reputational crises occur.
The Court of Appeals of the National Court of Justice announced Thursday the annulment of the eight-year sentence against the former vice-president of Ecuador Jorge Glas and six others... | Read More
Ealing Studios manager Gary Stone is to retire after ten years in the job and Charlie Fremantle, who joins Ealing from West London Film Studios, will take over.

Gary Stone (pictured left) started work as a Studio Assistant at the Lee Brothers Lee International Studios in 1977 at 16. In 1984, he was appointed Studio Manager of their Wembley Studios. In 1989, he became Commercials Manager at Lee international Studios, Shepperton. In 2000, he was appointed as Group Sales Manager at Pinewood.

He joined Ealing Studios in January 2008, and since then, has looked after productions, including Bridget Jones, The Theory Of Everything, Downton Abbey and The Durrells.

Gary Stone says, After 40 years in the Studios business, the last decade at Ealing Studios has been the most memorable, enjoyable, and rewarding time of my career.

Barnaby Thompson, co owner of Ealing, says We will miss Garys smiling face around the lot. He has done a tremendous job, always working hard to keep the clients happy and the productions running smoothly. He has made an enormous contribution to the life and history of the Studio. We wish him the best for his retirement.

After twenty-five years in Soho, including two years at FilmLight, Charlie Fremantle created and managed West London Film Studios which has recently hosted The Halcyon, Bridget Jones Baby, Episodes, and Mum.

Fremantle commented, Im delighted to step into Garys shoes and to take this iconic and much loved Studios into the next phase of its long and illustrious history.

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ST. AMANT  Work is underway to restore St. Amant Primary, the first of the five severely flood-damaged Ascension Parish schools to see repairs begin almost a year after the devastating rains of last August.

The district is proceeding with the $3.5 million restoration of the primary school on La. 429  whose approximately 600 students attended class on a former community college campus last year  without word yet of how much the school system might be reimbursed by Federal Emergency Management Agency grant money.

A FEMA spokesman said Friday the allocation of those funds should be made by July.

FEMA reimbursements for public projects come through the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOSEP), and can be as much as 90 percent of restoration costs.

The required project worksheet  a vital step in the grant process  for St. Amant Primary was submitted to FEMA in early January, schools Superintendent David Alexander said Friday.

With the project currently still in review by FEMA, the school district went ahead and bid and awarded the contract for the St. Amant Primary project in May, in hopes of having the campus open before the new school year.

"I don't understand why there's been such a delay" in the FEMA review process for the flood-damaged schools, Alexander said.

"We're a little confused," said Alexander, adding that the review process for other flood-related projects in the school district, such as the set-up of temporary campuses at four of the flooded schools, has moved at a faster pace.

The school district also began work in May on St. Amant Middle, which shares a campus with St. Amant Primary. The middle school was able to stay open last year, despite having some flood damage. The cost to repair it is estimated at $1.3 million.

The project worksheet for St. Amant Middle was submitted to FEMA in March, Alexander said, and is still in the review process.

FEMA spokesman Jake Conley said Friday that a grant of $3 million is expected to be allocated for the St. Amant Primary School some time in early July and a grant of $888,000 is expected to be awarded for the St. Amant Middle School in mid-July.

The process of identifying storm-related damage and associated scope of work to fix that damage can be lengthy, depending on the level of damage, Conley said.

"Additionally, items such as applicable code and standards upgrades and hazard mitigation proposals can take time to discuss and develop," he said.

Chad Calder, director of planning and construction for the Ascension Parish public school system, said plans for the restoration of three other schools that received major damage in the flood  St. Amant High, Lake Elementary and Galvez Middle  are close to being ready to bid, and planning for the final flood-damaged school, Galvez Primary, is close behind that.

But, he said, "We're still awaiting obligations from FEMA. The biggest challenge is making sure we have the funding."

Conley said FEMA expects to be allocating grants for the Lake Elementary project, as well as for ancillary buildings at St. Amant High School, in July.

Walking through the St. Amant Primary campus that was busy with construction workers last week, Superintendent Alexander said, "FEMA has not delayed us yet, but if we don't get obligations on those projects pending, there could be a problem because of cash flow."

When asked if he could estimate when the remaining schools that received major damage in the flood might be restored, Alexander said, "I can't even speculate. There are too many factors to speculate."

"If cash flow and FEMA reimbursements come in a timely way they might could be finished in a timely way," he said.
After adding 7,000 children over the past few months, Louisiana is reaching its limit in a key child care aid program. Starting July 1, new applicants will head straight to a waiting list, state officials announced Monday.

Families that apply between now and July 1, however, can get in under the wire and receive benefits.

The federally-funded Child Care Assistance Program, or CCAP, helps pay the cost of child care while their low-income parents are at work, school or in job training. Children receiving the aid can be as old as 12, but the most are from birth to five years old.

State-level budget cuts and stricter eligibility requirements had previously sent CCAP enrollment into a nosedive, declining by more than 70 percent from 39,000 slots in 2008 to just 11,000 slots in April 2016.

The Louisiana Department of Education recently reversed course, easing some work requirements and quickly generating new public interest. The biggest change, which went into effect in February, reduced the number of hours that recipients must work or be in job training from 30 to 20 hours a week. State officials predicted at the time the changes would result in waiting lists.

Louisiana loosens eligibility rules for child care assistance, but funding lacking New rules that recently went into effect mean more low-income Louisiana families are eligibl

That happened quickly. By May, just three months after the change was announced, the rolls topped 18,000. That number is growing as families continue to sign up in advance of the July 1 deadline.

Jenna Conway, assistant superintendent for early childhood education, said her office has been working closely with child care providers and activists to determine when best to announce the waiting list. Conway said 20 other states have waiting lists. She said she expects demand for assistance will remain high and that the size of the waiting list will grow over time in tandem with the economy.

As the economy gets better and more and more families get jobs, it puts them in a very tough position, she said. Its hard to rely just on informal (child) care.

The state will continue accepting applications until 11:59 p.m. on June 30. Applications received July 1 or later will be prioritized based on the date they are received. Those who manage to exit the waiting list and begin receiving benefits will be notified by phone, mail and email. After a year on the waiting list, families will be dropped and will need to reapply, but they will receive 30 days advance notice before their names are purged.

To qualify for CCAP in Louisiana, a family of four can earn at most $39,084 a year.

A few groups of children are exempt from the waiting list: those already receiving child care assistance, homeless children, those whose families participate in Early Head Start, those in the Strategies To Empower People program, as well as those in foster care or requiring special needs care. Applicants from these groups will be processed immediately.

The state education department plans to post frequent updates on its CCAP webpage: http://www.louisianabelieves.com/early-childhood/child-care-assistance-program.
CEDAR RAPIDS  President Donald Trump has added a tour of Kirkwood Community College to his Technology Week visit Wednesday to Cedar Rapids.

Trump will tour agricultural facilities at the southwest Cedar Rapids campus. He is scheduled to be joined there by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and Commerce Secretary Wilber Ross.

Following a tour and remarks there, Trump, who will be making his first trip to Cedar Rapids as president, will head to a 7 p.m. campaign-style rally at the U.S. Cellular Center, 370 First Ave. NE. For free tickets, visit donaldjtrump.com.

The visit is part of the administrations emphasis on helping businesses grow and prosper. Monday, Trump met with tech company leaders he has invited to be part of his American Technology Council. He also will focus on drones, driverless cars and 5G wireless technologies that enable the internet of things.

As part of Technology Week, the president is taking the conversation to rural America to talk about how the newest technology is changing the way food is produced, harvested and marketed, according to the White House. Technology also can make farming safer, more efficient and environmentally friendlier.

Among programs offered at Kirkwood is training for ag specialists who work with farmers to reduce pesticide and fertilizer use by matching application rates with needs.

Kirkwood is at forefront of teaching students how to use these tools in the field, said Justin Hoehn, the colleges marketing coordinator. Were very excited to show the president a very important part of what makes Kirkwood the No. 1 ag two-year program in the nation based on the number of graduates.

Several groups are planning a protest from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday outside the Cellular Center to address a range of issues including health care, the border wall, immigration wall, corruption, ties to Russia and the withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement, according to Chris Schwartz, an organizer for Americans for Democratic Action Iowa.
Pipilotti Rist's Worry will vanish revelation at the National Gallery of Australia almost seems tailor made to host a yoga session.

In the documentation accompanying the installation you're invited to "accept the invitation to explore the sensation of being at one with the universe and every living organism in it".

People doing yoga in the Pipilotti Rist exhibition space at the National Gallery of Australia. Credit:Jamila Toderas

And that's what 25 people did yesterday when the NGA kicked off a week of yoga in the contemporary gallery space.

As Rist's film runs through its loop, visions of the human body, both inside and out, fill the massive screens, as well as close-ups of micro natural environments.
David Eastman was arrested for the murder of Colin Winchester in December 1992 and spent 19 years behind bars before his conviction was quashed. Credit:Graham Tidy

Grab a coffee and we'll take a look at today's headlines.

Another day, another frost! It's a chilly -3 degrees this morning with frost and fog, though the mercury is expected to climb to a top of 14 degrees by this afternoon.

The cost of pursuing David Eastman for the alleged murder of Colin Winchester is nearing $30 million, according to figures provided by ACT authorities.

Kirsten Lawson details the funds set aside over successive budgets aimed at trialling and retrialling Mr Eastman.

Mr Eastman was found guilty of shooting Mr Winchester and sentenced to life imprisonment in 1995. His 1997 appeal to the High Court was dismissed in 2000, but he continued challenging his conviction with ongoing cases until 2007, when he was finally refused leave to appeal.

Read more here.

Greens MLA questions investments
Joel Selwood remains in Brownlow medal contention after being one of several stars spared from bans by the match review panel on Monday.

Despite the AFL's ongoing concern about head-high contact, Selwood's contact with West Coast veteran Sam Mitchell's head drew only a fine, as just two players faced suspensions following round 13.

High-profile players Selwood, Sam Mitchell, Lance Franklin, Jack Riewoldt, Alex Rance and Nick Riewoldt escaped bans, but Sydney are poised to be without emerging speedster Zak Jones for Friday night's match against Essendon after he was offered a one-match suspension by the match review panel for an off-the-ball incident involving Richmond forward Dan Butler. The incident was deemed to be intentional with low impact to the head.

Jones, who has been fined twice this year for incidents, was deemed to have struck Butler with a raised forearm. It shapes as a blow for the Swans, who have surged back into finals contention with five wins from their last six games, and have an intriguing Friday night match against Essendon at the SCG this weekend.
This is no longer some abstract issue that only concerns policy wonks. It is directly feeding into bills, and making them increase more sharply than needed. Chief Scientist Alan Finkel has recommended the federal government adopt a clean energy target. Credit:AAP Wholesale change When explaining the increases in price that are coming up, electricity retailers are pointing to a surge in the wholesale cost of electricity, which has roughly doubled in the past seven months. A key reason for this price jump is the closure of Victoria's high carbon-emitting coal generator Hazelwood in March, which was estimated to have supplied about 5 per cent of Australia's electricity.

Electricity prices are lowest under a Clean Energy Target than under an Emissions Intensity Scheme or business as usual, modelling for the Finkel review shows Credit:Jacobs Group (Australia) The ripple effect of this plant closing has been to force retailers to get a a much larger share of electricity from gas generators, which is is more costly. (Unhelpfully, domestic gas prices have also surged from greater overseas demand for liquefied natural gas.) Hazelwood was always going to have to close under a serious policy to curb emissions, of course. But the transition away from coal has been made much more costly than it needs to be, by the sheer policy incoherence on climate change. The National Electricity Market law needs to be changed to allow cost-reflective tariffs, says Gavin Dufty of the St Vincent de Paul Society. In the past decade, we've had John Howard propose an emissions trading scheme; Kevin Rudd propose then abandon such a scheme; Julia Gillard introduce one, only to have it torn down by Tony Abbott in favour of "direct action."

The upshot of this back and forth is investors doing the equivalent of sitting on their hands. They know much of the country's carbon-heavy electricity sector needs to be replaced if we're to have any hope of hitting emissions reduction targets. But for investors looking at the returns they might get over 20 to 30 years, the risks of building new plant are too high. It's also hard for owners of existing coal-fired generators to take a long-term view on how long to maintain their plant before shutting down. Signal without intent A report last month by the Grattan Institute said recent big increases in the wholesale price of electricity are a signal for investors to build new plant. But in the absence of clear policy from government, that's not happening. "A decade of toxic political debates, mixed messages and policy instability has prevented the emergence of credible climate change policy," the report says.

Grattan's Tony Wood says one exception has been renewable energy, where there has been greater investment because of mandated targets on how much electricity must come from green sources. But this too brings challenges, because wind and solar energy is "intermittent". So, we're relying on higher-cost gas-fired electricity, and other costly ways of hedging our bets. In South Australia, for instance, the government is arranging up to 200 megawatts of temporary diesel generation to prevent blackouts this summer. That is a very expensive - and dirty - way of keeping electricity supplies going, and it wouldn't be needed if we had a clear climate policy. Gavin Dufty from St Vincent de Paul points out that another source of rising prices is what's known as a "risk premium" paid by electricity retailers when hedging themselves in the electricity market. Because the policy outlook is so uncertain, that premium has climbed higher, which is passed on to end users.
Online retailer Amazon's move to snap up the American grocery chain Whole Foods put a chill through Australian supermarkets on Monday, with the market reacting to news the e-commerce giant was putting kitchen cupboards at the centre of its future.

The $US13.7 billion ($18 billion) investment, announced on Saturday, will see Amazon acquire 460 stores across 42 US states, which will serve as distribution and pick-up locations.

Woolworths, Coles' owner Wesfarmers and independent wholesaler Metcash were all sold down on Monday, the first day of trading on the ASX since Amazon said it would buy Whole Foods.
Rietbroek said he recently approached a senior female leader  he did not want to name her  to take on a global director role. Her initial answer was a firm, no. "She didn't think she was qualified," he said.

At PepsiCo in Australia and New Zealand, where five of 11 of the local executive leadership team are now women, chief executive Robbert Rietbroek said much had been done to promote women into senior roles.

In corporate Australia where there are just a handful of female chief executives on the ASX 200, and 13 of the nation's top company boards still without any women, male chiefs need to push women to climb the corporate ladder.

However, weeks later he went back and suggested it again, listing all the attributes that made her perfect for the role. This time she was convinced. She applied for the job, and now she is one of PepsiCo's global directors. "She's doing exceedingly well," Rietbroek said.

In its Australia and New Zealand business, women fill about 40 per cent of senior roles. Credit:Jessica Shapiro

Sadly, this scenario is the exception rather than the norm. According to a recent study by Bain & Company and Chief Executive Women, women are more likely to be told to display "more confidence" and to get "more experience" by their managers if they want promotions. The research revealed almost 60 per cent of men were promoted twice or more in the past five years compared with only 41 per cent of females.

Another report by CEW found that propensity to take a risk when appointing a man was higher than when appointing a woman, and often mothers were presumed to be less competent, committed and ambitious, and thereby given fewer opportunities. Comments such as, "she's great but she's not ready yet" were among those given when women were turned down an opportunity to move up the ranks.

Rietbroek believes companies and their senior leadership need to do more to support womens' progression. He prefers a voluntary approach rather than mandated quotas.
MASON CITY | A North Iowa woman who allegedly had 14 grams of meth in her possession when she was stopped by police in Mason City Sunday faces a felony drug dealing charge.

Tina A. Rohwedder, 50, Rockford, is being held in the Cerro Gordo County Jail on $25,000 cash-only bond on a charge of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver.

Rohwedder also had small plastic bags, a scale and other items related to meth sale and delivery in her possession, according to the Mason City Police Department criminal complaint.

The meth and other items were found as a result of a search done after a traffic stop at 12:53 a.m. Sunday at the intersection of Ninth Street and South Grant Avenue, the complaint states.

Rohwedder admitted she intended to sell the meth, according to police.

She has a court appearance scheduled for June 23.

-- Mary Pieper
As Gonski 2.0 hits the Senate, the Australian Education Union is flailing in mid-air, like Wile E Coyote in a road-runner cartoon. It doesn't seem to realise that the ground beneath its feet  Labor's model of Gonski  has disappeared.

Having won the philosophical war on needs-based funding of schools, the union is now in danger of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. If the amendment fails this week, government schools will get less money, not more.

It didn't need to be this way. Hark back to 2013. Labor was desperately trying to enact the needs-based, sector-blind vision that David Gonski offered.

True to form, then opposition leader Tony Abbott did everything in his power to destroy the Gonski model. But he failed. Fearing an electoral backlash, Abbott declared a unity ticket with Labor on schools funding. The AEU, under its "I give a Gonski" banner, had achieved a huge win.
Sam Panopoulos, who has died aged 82, was widely credited with inventing the Hawaiian pizza; his addition of pineapple to the dish's prospective toppings in 1962 has sharply divided aficionados since, the numbers of those revelling in the combination of sweet and savoury flavours at least matched by those who consider it a culinary abomination.

Panopoulos migrated from his native Greece to Canada in the mid-1950s. On the journey, he stopped at Naples and there first tasted pizza. By the early '60s, he had opened a restaurant at Chatham, Ontario, called The Satellite.

The inventor of the Hawaiian pizza, which enjoyed a rapid spread in popularity after its creation, has died.

This served conventional fare as well as Chinese food. To satisfy his craving for pizza, Panopoulos had to drive 80 kilometres across the US border to Detroit. So widespread is it now, that it is often forgotten that even in Italy pizza remained a regional speciality until well after the Second World War.

Southern immigrants had brought it to America before then but it was veterans returning from spending time in Naples who spread a taste for it across the continent. Even so, the first chains would not open in Canada until the mid-1960s, and Panopoulos had to teach himself to make pizza by imitating what he saw in Detroit.
Australians like to think we are all equal under the law but in the area of racial inequality, criminal injustice grows unhindered. Where better to see this sad fact than the Royal Commission into the Protection and Detention of Children in the Northern Territory? The brutal industry that awaits young children and teenagers taken into custody in that jurisdiction has been exposed over the past eight months at hearings in Darwin, Alice Springs and various communities.

Since October, royal commissioners Margaret White and Mick Gooda have taken evidence from inmates, families, prison guards and administrators, government ministers, sociologists, health workers and elders. Much of it has been harrowing or incredible. The commission was established to provide justice for all, but at times it has been justice itself that has been on trial.

ABC's Four Corners expose showed youths being restrained in mechanical chairs. Credit:ABC

It followed the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's Four Corners program last July showing youths being stripped, hooded and restrained in mechanical chairs, confined in solitary and being gassed by guards.

The commission got off on the wrong foot when the first appointed commissioner, BrianMartin, resigned following trenchant criticism of his links with NT governments. It was not as though the NT government was in the dark. There have been at least three well-publicised inquiries and reports, warning the NT administration of the abuse and drew on much of the Four Corners footage.
Time for a check-up It's good to see that we are being really careful about people's qualifications ("Fifty is the new year 12 for doctor swatting on HSC", June 18). We can't have someone claiming to have a medical or similar degree without real proof. Can you imagine unscrupulous men or women either stealing someone's medical degree and working in our hospitals for 11 years, or just blithely awarding themselves two PhDs and getting an important job as a result? But that would never happen, would it? Joan Brown Orange Do something, don't just burn there For heaven's sake stop all this nonsense. Lives are at stake here. We have already had one inquiry about the 2014 Melbourne fire and it is not due to report until October this year. How could that possibly take so long? ("Shorten pushes for cladding probe", Herald, June 19). We do not need another inquiry right now; later on will work just fine. Right now we just need to know which buildings are potential death traps, and deal with the problem.

We do not have any time to muck about. The London fire has shown us that. Surely it would not take more than few days to obtain a sample of the aluminium cladding on all buildings possibly clad with the already identified flammable material. Testing of the samples should be fast-tracked and an answer obtained ASAP; hopefully within a week or so. So please, governments all, extract the digit and get on with it before more people burn to death. Jo McGahey Belrose The Australian Building Codes Board has been aware of the safety threat posed by building with aluminium composite panels since 2010 when a fire safety consultant advised that they were combustible. With regard to rectifying this matter the board says "negotiations stalled" in 2012. What on earth were they negotiating? Building standards were not being met and the job of the board was to ensure that they were. The board has not done its job and as a consequence construction with this material has continued for another seven years. Is the board, (a government body), now liable for the work which will need to be done or will the cost fall on the average Joe who unwittingly purchased a property on the understanding that building safety standards had been met? Either answer is unsatisfactory. Lyn Savage Coogee The BCA contains a very detailed disclaimer, which clearly states that the person accessing the information in the BCA takes full responsibility for relevance and accuracy of that information. With such a loose interpretation of the codes of practice meant to provide safe buildings it is little wonder that the constructors of buildings effectively deny any responsibility for the safety and functionality. Governments that consistently fail to legislate building quality, in Australia as well as the UK, are equally to blame.

Malcolm Ellis Gordon Hinch still ignorant of independent judiciary role Even after two stints behind bars for contempt of court, Derryn Hinch still doesn't get it ("Hinch taunts judges as ministers take cover", June 19). The judges of the Victorian Court of Appeal aren't concerned about public criticism of them per se: they are concerned that the comments of ministers Hunt, Sukkar and Tudge were made about, and in the context of, two appeals (claiming sentences were too lenient) that the court is still considering. If, now, the appeals in those cases are dismissed, the comments of the ministers might be seen as justified. If, however, the appeals are upheld, it might be seen that the court does so simply to disprove the ministers' allegations. In the words of Justice Mark Weinberg, it places the court in an embarrassing and invidious position of having their decisions, whichever way they go, viewed as having been reached as a result of external pressure, not the law. Why don't Hinch and the three ministers understand that you just shut up until the process is over? Adrian Connelly Springwood

Accepting that politicians' abilities to reason are fully equal to that of judges, Senator Hinch's desire to deal with the contempt threat against the three ministers by telling the court to "go jump" is not entirely without merit. Arguably, no branch of government, including the courts, should be immune from public opinions or criticisms in a democratic system. Steve Ngeow Chatswood It appears that Derryn Hinch would like to take us back to the dark ages and allow those who have the means and the power to influence by swaying court decisions. Does he not understand the notion of an independent judiciary? Would he rather that those with the loudest voices and the greatest wealth or power be able to influence courts? Vanessa Tennent Oatley Frydenberg part of power price problem

While it is understandable that Josh Frydenberg is desperately trying to dampen down the potential firestorm being whipped up by Tony Abbott and co. re the Finkel report ("Frydenberg lashes states over rising power prices", June 19"), it is disingenuous of him to try to lay the blame on the states for rising power prices. The electorate remembers well Abbott's damaging "great big carbon tax" mantra and now knows of the consensus among nations that a carbon tax is the most effective way to both deal with climate change and keep power prices under control. The fact is, if Frydenberg's conservatives hadn't repealed the carbon tax Australia might now have in place a greater mix of renewables and be experiencing the consequent benefit to power prices. Phyllis Vespucci Reservoir I have a few words for Susie Elsenhuth (Letters, June 19): a careful analysis of the circumstances of Fukushima and Chernobyl and a look at the global picture of its use will demonstrate the safety of nuclear power. Nuclear has its problems but these are soluble: on the other hand, nuclear doesn't burn carbon. Bruce Graham Waitara I have a large rooftop solar array (it took years to pay off). My electricity meter has been updated (so I lost my separate off-peak cheaper hot water). Now I'm waiting for transfer to net, instead of gross metering and the energy company is dragging its feet. Why? Possibly because they currently buy my electricity at about 6 per kilowatt hour but sell it back to me at about 25. I'd obviously prefer to use my own supply and sell them my surplus or pay for any deficit. Conflict of interests? Dracula controlling the bloodbank? Gladys  help!

Susan Margan Epping Aussie Macron needed With Emmanuel Macron seemingly to have a huge majority in the French parliament, why can't it happen in Australia? ("Macron wins huge parliamentary majority", smh.com.au, June 19). Both major parties are on the nose, as in France, and in just over a year Macron has done the impossible, ran for the presidency and won, and a party that didn't exist a year ago has a huge majority. There must be a Macron in Australia  if there is you have two years to do the same. Let's get rid of the ALP and LNP and breathe new life in to the moribund politics of Australia. The voters await you! Robert Pallister Punchbowl Facts on terrorism

George Williams ("Overreaction won't win fight against terrorism", June 19) makes salient points regarding longer terms of imprisonment not enhancing community safety but rather increasing the chances of further radicalisation as well as elevating the importance of the crime by labelling it terrorism. This only increases recruitment, given its more prominent status and not being viewed as basically murder, as some pollies have called for it to be labelled, to reduce the attraction and literally call it what it is. Gordana Martinovich Dulwich Hill Elderly and happy The letter from Bronwyn Bachali (Letters, June 19) is way off the mark. Members of both genders should not be hiding their age. Those of us who are elderly should be proud and happy that we have reached a good old age. I am 77. I have lost many family members, friends and others at much younger ages than I am. I have shed many tears but I am proud and happy to still be here. We should not be ashamed. Enjoy your family and friends in the time left because it is all too short. Brian Sewell Dulwich Hill

Selling off assets Sydney GPO. Credit:Wolter Peeters What is going to happen when there are no more assets for governments to sell? If we sold off our personal assets to cover our debts, yes we would have no debts but we would not be able to sustain the lifestyle we had prior to selling. At a personal level we would come unstuck big time. I hold grave fears for the economy when there is nothing left to sell! Jennifer Creighton Modanville East

Smartest Tweet: Stop Members of Parliament could greatly reduce the stress of social media on them and their staff by simply not subscribing to it ("State MPs win funding to cover stress of social media" June 19). A minority apparently do manage without it.The only means of communication they need are letters (remember them?), email, a telephone and meetings as appropriate, which is not over lunch. By all means give them staff to help with that but not with assorted blogs, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and the rest, none of which are needed for their job. Greg McCarry Epping Wife, husband equals Having grown up in the stifling atmosphere of Sydney Anglican diocese I was dismayed to read in the Herald that the diocese still wants to promote the "headship" of the husband in a marriage ("Students exposed to lessons on 'headship' ", June 19). After 57 years of marriage I can say that the concept of partnership or teamwork works much better for everyone's wellbeing with both partners giving their skills and gifts for the good of the family. It makes me think that Sydney Anglican (male) clergy haven't moved much past their monkey ancestors.

Barbara Lumley Wentworth Falls Naval disaster sends a clear warning If two enormous, slow-moving (comparatively) vessels, one of which at least would surely have every electronic gizmo, can collide in the middle of the ocean, would you trust a driverless car? ("Sailors found dead as damaged US destroyer reaches port", June 19). Christopher May Dangar Island Whatever Trump is he's plain bad views

I agree with Tom Switzer ("Trump is no fascist", June 19), that Donald Trump is a buffoon and a narcissist. However, first and foremost he is a corporate brand. The American presidency has been taken over by the corporate world. Mark Porter New Lambton Should we all be breathing a sigh of relief that the leader of the free world is an incompetent oscillator as distinct from a fascist? My morning toast and coffee got even better: Vladimir Putin is offered in testimony to this good news. Brian Jones Leura Facts discounted
The rules have changed. Another low-tech attack. A vehicle used as a deadly weapon, this time against worshippers gathered outside a mosque in London. And the now increasingly common initial confusion: was this another terror attack, or was it something else?

British police were, at first, criticised for their delay in giving the latest London atrocity their official "terror" designation. But they, like us, would have had to sift through the facts of what had happened and ask: when is a random act by a deluded maniac simply an act of murder, and when is it what we would define, these days, as terrorism?

Under Australian law, to call a crime a terrorist act, two criteria must be met  an intention to influence the public or any government by intimidation to advance a political, religious or ideological cause, and that causes or risks death, harm or danger to people or property.

Perpetrators of the recent attacks in London and in continental Europe were, it is believed, responding to calls broadcast online by a terrorist organisation. Such calls are received here in Australia too, and the recent Brighton siege in Melbourne was deemed terrorism.
Hail the Jeremy Corbyn revolution! He has awakened the British young ones from their political slumber and juiced the international left. The euphoria is palpable: "Corbyn is leading the left out of the wilderness" gushed one commentator. Not since the Australian Greens almost secured a second lower house seat at last year's federal election has defeat been so comprehensively spun as triumph. Such is the heady logic of low expectations.

There is no resurgent left or liberal-left; in Britain the non-conservative side of politics remains as bereft of real power today as it was before last week's election, in the US it is vanquished, across Europe, depleted  with France's Emmanuel Macron a notable exception. (Now that's a revolution: France as the new home of the radical centre.)

Illustration: Jim Pavlidis.

The movement is lumbered with too many day-dreamers, people reluctant to drag themselves to polling booths, let alone door-knock for candidates, unless there's a whiff of uprising. Corbyn does it for them. Bernie Sanders. The ghost of Che Guevara. While their arguments have moral force, this mania for tearing down the political establishment risks squandering existing hard-won achievements in pursuit of a mirage-like utopian future.

Where were young cosmopolitans a year ago when Britain voted to diminish their horizons by leaving the European Union on the back of a heavily xenophobic campaign that foreshadowed the post-factual era with its contempt for expert evidence? Well, it was raining that day. To be fair, it was pissing down torrential cats and dogs and who wouldn't have preferred to hide under the duvet? But while more than 90 per cent of over 65s managed to navigate the floodwaters to cast their votes, disproportionately for Leave, only about 60 per cent of voters under 24 did the same for Remain  and even that counted as a healthy turnout.
A crackdown on citizenship rights for children of migrants and foreign diplomats is among a number of dumped Tony Abbott-era proposals to have resurfaced in the Turnbull government's citizenship revamp.

The government says the restrictions are necessary to stop parents using their children's citizenship "as an anchor for family migration" or to win sympathy in their own migration disputes.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull welcomes a new citizen at an Australia Day ceremony. Credit:Rohan Thomson

Under the proposed changes, children will no longer become citizens on their 10th birthday if, at any point, they were present in Australia unlawfully or re-entered Australia without a valid visa.

The same will also apply if a child's parent lacked a "substantive" visa at the time of the child's birth and was present in Australia unlawfully prior to the birth. That means a child born to parents on bridging visas would not automatically acquire citizenship.
Olympic legend and longtime Republican Caitlyn Jenner raised eyebrows over the weekend with a joke at the College Republican National Committee convention on Friday.

Though the event was closed to the press, video was posted to Facebook Live by the College Republican Federation of Virginia, which has since removed the post.

Caitlyn Jenner has come under fire for her comments about a shooting last week. Credit:Getty Images

"Nobody deserves what happened out there," Jenner said of Wednesday's shooting, in which four were injured by a gunman said to be targeting Republican lawmakers.

But rather than stop while she was ahead, Jenner continued commenting on the violence.
Mental health issues are one of the most common forms of illness in Australia with 3 million of us currently living with anxiety or depression alone. But it's not just our personal lives that are affected by mental health. It's our work and careers, too.

A recent report conducted by Beyond Blue showed that one in every five Australians took time off in the last 12 months due to mental health issues.

It's important to understand that it's not your job to "fix" her. Credit:Stocksy

Similarly, a Safe Work Australia report showed that mental health compensation claims are fast becoming one of the most costly problems in the Australian workplace.

However, despite these stats, mental health issues in the workplace are often overlooked, with employers focusing more on physical health. Mental health remains a taboo. Therefore, when it comes to calling in sick, people are unlikely to disclose the true purpose for their absence.
Nowhere has this been more starkly outlined recently than in Rossalyn Warren's recent (and superb) Guardian UK profile of Lincolnshire residents, Luke and Ryan Hart. The brothers have both emerged as advocates not only speaking up for the women and children victimised by violent, controlling men, but also against the kind of restrictive, harmful masculinity that helps to create such tyrants.

Their victims, on the other hand, are often left almost as a postscript to the crime; a by-product of the real tragedy that is a sad man lashing out.

If we want to change outcomes for boys and men, we should listen to the most typical male DV survivors, writes Clementine Ford. Credit:Jessica Bosse / Daring Wanderer

Men who rape, abuse or murder women are described in news reports as being "good blokes" and "nice guys" for whom such callous acts of violence were "out of character". Their sporting achievements and community accolades are trotted out for show, with everyone from their neighbours to their butcher lining up to list their positive qualities.

There's a lot of derailment and obfuscation that occurs in both the response to and the reporting of incidences of family violence, particularly when a perpetrator commits family homicide. Jane Gilmore's #FixedIt project aptly demonstrates this, highlighting in particular the media bias present in most public descriptions of this type of crime.

The impact of this violence is not theoretical for the Hart brothers; last year, their father used a single barrel shotgun to murder their mother, Claire, and 19-year-old sister, Charlotte, outside a community leisure centre, before turning the weapon on himself. Just days before, Luke and Ryan had helped Claire and Charlotte to move out of the family house and into a rental property.

On the morning of the escape, the pair recall being unable to make contact with their mother. They later discovered their father had driven Claire to her workplace against her wishes, just the latest act of control in almost three decades worth of aggression.

In recounting the arrival at their new home to Warren, Luke Hart spoke about how much suffering he, his siblings and his mother had endured at the hands of his father. He said, "Everything felt uncomfortably different, but I later recognised that the feeling was simply freedom. It was something I'd never known or felt before. We felt reborn."

Yet the reality of this trauma was absent in the media coverage following Lance Hart's murder of his wife and daughter. Like so many Australian men who similarly take the lives of their partners and/or children, Hart was described afterwards in almost glowing terms. He was described as a "nice guy" and a "DIY nut". As Warren points out, "in every report, there was speculation that the prospect of divorce 'drove' Lance to murder, and little mention or description of Claire or Charlotte."

Similarly, in Australia, men (most typically, white men) who murder their partners and/or children are treated as tragic figures governed by a force that exists outside of themselves. Geoff Hunt shot his entire family on a farm outside of Lockhart and he was remembered fondly as a good man who helped his disabled wife in and out of the car. Gregory Floyd chased his wife down with a gun in Wangaratta and killed her before killing himself and articles declared his crime a "tragedy" that was "out of character". Damien Little drove a car carrying his two sons off a wharf in Port Lincoln and was mourned afterwards as a "top bloke".
MASON CITY | Third Ward Councilman Brett Schoneman has resigned, effective immediately, according to a statement he issued Monday.

Schoneman, a real estate broker and developer, was elected to his first four-year council term in November 2015. He took office in January 2016.

"A new opportunity will have me moving outside of Ward 3, thereby not allowing me to serve on the City Council," Schoneman said in the statement. "I've enjoyed serving the city in this position and I will continue to serve North Iowa as I did before I was elected."

Schoneman elected to City Council MASON CITY | Brett Schoneman, a Mason City real estate broker and developer, won election to

Schoneman didn't say where he is moving.

Mason City is an outstanding community with a lot of potential, Schoneman said.

"I've lived in several communities and there is really something special here. I challenge the incoming City Council and incoming mayor to take the the vision of the community as they always have and to not be afraid of opportunities as they come up.

"This town is strong enough that no one project can make or break it but we need to stop being a 'glass half-empty' type of city and figure out what we can be successful at, then charge the elected officials to go get it," he said.

Two political newcomers vie for Third Ward council seat MASON CITY | Two newcomers to Mason City politics are competing for the Third Ward seat on t

Schoneman was elected in 2015, defeating Joshua Masson for the Third Ward council seat left open when Jean Marinos, the incumbent, chose not to run for re-election.

Schoneman has 2 1/2 years left on his term. The City Council can appoint someone to fill out the term or call for a special election to fill the vacancy. If the council chooses to appoint someone, the public can petition to hold a special election.

This is the third time in the past two years at a City Council position has become open in mid-term.

Schoneman makes bid for Mason City Council seat MASON CITY | Real estate broker Brett Schoneman of Schoneman Realtors announced Thursday his

In 2015, Bill Schickel was elected to fill the unexpired term of Scott Tornquist who moved out of state. In 2016, Paul Adams was elected to serve the remainder of term of Alex Kuhn, who died.
Coalition-held seats are in line for twice the number of school infrastructure projects than Labor-held seats under a $2.2 billion program announced by the NSW government, sparking claims of pork-barrelling before the 2019 election.

The electorate with the most projects is Monaro, held by Deputy Premier and Nationals leader John Barilaro, who faces a fight defending his slender margin of 2.5 per cent.

One of the projects in Monaro is a new special needs school, which Mr Barilaro has been pushing for despite Department of Education advice previously indicating it was not a priority.

The NSW government announced on Monday that 123 schools will be built or upgraded across NSW with $2.2 billion in new funding to address overcrowding fuelled by a surge in student enrolments.
Privatisations have supercharged NSW finances, with Treasurer Dominic Perrottet set to announce an expected surplus of $4.5 billion for 2016-17 when he delivers his first budget on Tuesday.

The surplus is $500 million higher than forecast in the December half yearly review, which predicted a 2016-17 surplus of $4 billion, thanks to $488.9 million in stamp duty from the partial privatisation of electricity "poles and wires" company Ausgrid.

Since then the 99-year lease of 50.4 per cent of electricity distributor Endeavour Energy and to a lesser extent the 35-year lease of the Land and Property Information service have delivered stamp duty receipts worth more than $700 million.

Mr Perrottet will announce that NSW is on track to become the first state with a net worth of a quarter of a trillion dollars.
Sometimes, when the pain is really bad, Jessica King can't even walk with crutches.

She has to crawl across the loungeroom floor and down the tiled hallway to get to the bathroom.

Setback: Gail King (right) says halting the physiotherapy has cost her daughter Jess (left) months of treatment. Credit:Eddie Jim

Jessica, 35, lives with cerebral palsy and a mild intellectual disability and used to always rely on a wheelchair or aids to walk.

Six years ago, Jessica and her mother Gail discovered a specialist form of physiotherapy. Combined with regular gym trips, it gave her the strength and stamina to leave her wheelchair, and even walk unaided at times.
Beijing: There has been a power shift in Australia's policymaking on China, with defence officials who don't understand China now the dominant voice, a former top diplomat has told Chinese media.

Australia's former ambassador to China, Geoff Raby, told the Global Times newspaper the shift had been away from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and towards the prime minister's office and defence and national security ministries.

"Although those organisations might be experienced in the global landscape, they might not be close to China or know China well," Mr Raby said in an interview with the Chinese-language edition of the Global Times.

Mr Raby confirmed to Fairfax Media he had made this comment.
"We managed to surround him and to protect (the alleged attacker) from any harm," Mr Mahmoud said. "We stopped all forms of attack and abuse towards him, that were coming from every angle. Local people observe prayers at Finsbury Park after a vehicle struck pedestrians. Credit:PA "We pushed people back trying to hit him  he was unscathed." Mr Mahmoud said a police van had driven past and they asked them to take the man into custody before he was seriously hurt. On Monday Mr Mahmoud was hailed a hero for his actions, and praised by politicians and police.

London mayor Sadiq Khan said he could understand why "things were getting very heated" after the attack. "Imam Mohammed did a really good job in calming things down and making sure that justice can be done as it should be done via due process, rather than anyone taking the law into their own hands," he said. "This is a good community. They pull together, they work closely with each other and the actions of Imam Mohammed are what I would expect from a good faith leader and a good Muslim leader." Toufik Kacimi, CEO of the Muslim Welfare House outside which the attack took place, said earlier he wanted to "particularly thank our Imam Mohammed Mahmoud, whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life." Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu thanked "those people who helped police in detaining the man and worked with officers to calmly and quickly get him into our custody - their restraint in the circumstances was commendable".

Mr Mahmoud said the Finsbury Park community was mild-mannered and calm, and its mosques were "incredibly peaceful". "I can assure you we will do our utmost to calm down any tensions," he said. But he condemned the "tragic and barbaric terrorist attack". He said he had been told the attacker had said "I did my bit" after the attack. "It's maybe proof that this demonisation of the Muslim community at the hand of those who have ulterior motives and wish to divide this country and divide this great city have succeeded to some extent," Mr Mahmoud said.

"(They have) influenced the vulnerable and impressionable into thinking we're barbaric and that we are people who like to shed blood and therefore that we must be eliminated and exterminated. "The fabric of society is not torn. But we have to continue to keep the fabric of the society and this community of London intact - and come together." Prime Minister Theresa May said earlier on Monday that there had been "far too much tolerance of extremism in our country over many years, including Islamophobia". Author J.K. Rowling, who is vocal on social media about politics and social issues, called for a conversation on "how the Finsbury Park terrorist was radicalised", pointing at incendiary headlines and commentary in tabloid media attacking Muslims, and anti-immigrant campaigning during the Brexit referendum.

She also pointed out that Finsbury Park Mosque had, in 2014, been awarded a national award for charity and community work. Earlier, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said an attack on one community was an attack on all. "London is a city of many faiths and many nationalities," she said. "Terrorists will not succeed in their attempts to divide us and make us live in fear." Loading "Extra officers are on duty in the area to help reassure the local community. They will be there for as long as they are needed.
Prime Minister Theresa May and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn have visited Finsbury Park mosque to offer their support after the van attack.

It's now 2pm in London, about 14 hours after a van ploughed into a crowd of people. Ten people were injured, two seriously, and a man was found dead - however police have not confirmed if he died as a result of the incident or another medical condition.

As the country's leaders speak to the victims' friends and family members in north London, celebrities have blamed tabloid newspapers for causing the incident, which police are treating as an act of terrorism.

Singer Lily Allen and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling are among those to slam the UK media, saying it radicalised the man who drove the van.

That concludes our live coverage of today's events - thanks for sticking with us.

Read a wrap of how the day unfolded here
Cincinnati: US student Otto Warmbier, who was imprisoned in North Korea for 17 months before being returned home in a coma less than a week ago, has died in hospital, his family said in a statement.

Mr Warmbier returned from North Korea last week, and his father Fred Warmbier denounced the "pariah" regime that brutalised his son.

"It is our sad duty to report that our son, Otto Warmbier, has completed his journey home. Surrounded by his loving family, Otto died today at 2.20pm," the statement said.

"It would be easy at a moment like this to focus on all that we lost - future time that won't be spent with a warm, engaging, brilliant young man whose curiosity and enthusiasm for life knew no bounds. But we choose to focus on the time we were given to be with this remarkable person."
ATLANTA, June 7, 2017 -- The editors of Autotrader have compiled their expert picks of the top certified pre-owned (CPO) programs available for June. With the summer season heating up fast, Autotrader doesn't want you to miss the chance to take advantage of some of the hottest deals available for like-new vehicles this month.

"If you're shopping on a budget, there are some great deals to be had among the many certified pre-owned offerings this month," said Brian Moody, Autotrader executive editor. "When purchasing a CPO vehicle that has passed a strict inspection by the original manufacturer, you've made a smart decision on a vehicle with many trouble-free miles ahead."

Helping you find the right car for the summer months ahead, the expert editors at Autotrader are excited to announce their list of the best certified pre-owned deals offered for June.

Autotrader Editors' Top Picks for Certified Pre-Owned Deals for June 2017

Acura's certified pre-owned program touts excellent coverage that offers 7 years or 100,000 miles of powertrain protection from the car's original sale date, plus one year of additional comprehensive coverage. In June, qualified shoppers can get a certified pre-owned TLX, ILX or TL sedan with 1.49 percent interest for up to 36 months.

Buick's certified pre-owned program offers a strong incentive in June. Qualified shoppers can get 1.9 percent interest for up to 36 months on any certified pre-owned Buick Enclave, Encore or LaCrosse -- a good deal that typically only applies to new vehicles.

Chevrolet's certified pre-owned is also offering a good incentive to qualified buyers interested in financing a certified pre-owned vehicle: 1.9 percent interest for up to 36 months on any certified pre-owned Cruze, Equinox, Malibu, Silverado or Traverse.

Ford's CPO program touts great coverage, and in June its CPO warranty boasts a budget-friendly special offer: Through the end of the month, qualified shoppers can get 1.9 percent interest for up to 66 months on certified pre-owned versions of the Fusion midsize sedan, Escape compact crossover and Focus compact car. That's a good rate over an unusually long period, especially for a used model.

Infiniti's certified pre-owned program is among the best on the market, as it offers coverage that lasts up to 6 years on many models. Through the end of the month, the automaker is offering 0.99 percent interest for up to 36 months on all certified pre-owned Infiniti models to qualified shoppers. That's one of the best CPO incentives available today.

Kia's certified pre-owned program is among our favorites, as it offers powertrain protection for up to 10 years or 100,000. In June, the automaker is touting 1.9 percent interest for up to 36 months on all certified pre-owned Kia models to qualified buyers. That's a great deal -- and one you'd typically expect to only find on a new car.

Subaru's certified pre-owned program touts two big benefits: no deductible, and full transferability to future owners. In June, there's yet another big benefit to getting a certified pre-owned Subaru: The automaker is offering 1.49 percent interest for up to 36 months on all certified pre-owned models -- a great deal for qualified shoppers.

Toyota's certified pre-owned program is good, touting up to 7 years of powertrain protection from the original sale date, plus an additional year of bumper-to-bumper coverage. In June, qualified buyers interested in a CPO RAV4 can also get a good incentive: Up to 1.9 percent interest for up to 60 months, which is a better deal than most other Toyota models.

For additional details on the CPO programs mentioned, please visit http://www.autotrader.com/car-deals/cpo-deals-june-2017-266390.

Learn more about the advantages of CPO at Autotrader.com's "What are the Benefits of Certified Pre-Owned?"

About Autotrader

Autotrader is the most visited third-party car shopping site, with the most engaged audience of in-market shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered consumer looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or certified pre-owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing solutions guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience.

Autotrader is a Cox Automotive brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. is transforming the way the world buys, sells and owns cars with industry-leading digital marketing, software, financial, wholesale and e-commerce solutions for consumers, dealers, manufacturers and the overall automotive ecosystem worldwide. Committed to open choice and dedicated to strong partnerships, the Cox Automotive family includes Autotrader, Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, vAuto, Xtime and a host of other brands. The global company has 33,000 team members in more than 200 locations and is partner to more than 40,000 auto dealers, as well as most major automobile manufacturers, while engaging U.S. consumer car buyers with the most recognized media brands in the industry. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., an Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 60,000 employees. Cox Enterprises' other major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications and Cox Media Group. For more information about Cox Automotive, visit www.coxautoinc.com.
if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi...
A child-protection system that allows two 16-year-old Iowa girls to die  one from starvation and the other from malnutrition  is a system that's in urgent need of repair.

But where to begin?

To hear the Iowa Department of Human Services tell it, massive cuts in staffing over the past seven years haven't lessened the agency's ability to protect Iowa's children. Yet there are two dead girls  both home-schooled and both from the state's foster care system  to account for.

On May 12, Sabrina Ray was found unresponsive and suffering from severe malnutrition inside her adoptive home in Perry. According to authorities, DHS had been "monitoring" the girl's home due to past complaints of abuse, but the extent of that monitoring is unclear. Investigators said they found no evidence of abuse, but by the time she died, Sabrina weighed just 56 pounds. Her parents now face criminal charges of kidnapping, neglect and child endangerment resulting in a death.

Like Sabrina, Natalie Finn was adopted out of foster care. She was living with her adoptive parents in West Des Moines last October when she died of starvation. Her mother has been charged with first-degree murder and her father faces charges of kidnapping and neglect or abandonment.

'This is unconscionable.' Iowa officials grilled over 2 adopted teens' deaths

Understandably, state lawmakers are now examining the manner in which foster parents are recruited and trained by the state. They're also focusing on staffing levels at DHS and the high caseloads of state social workers and child-abuse investigators.

Although every Iowa lawmaker can credibly claim they're "supportive" of Iowa's children, some of the legislature's inquiries seem more like political theater than a diligent effort to identify and address any shortcomings in the system. These are the same lawmakers who repeatedly cut the budget at DHS, knowing full well that their actions were likely to result in some sort of harm to the people DHS is charged with protecting.

As Sen. Matt McCoy, a Des Moines Democrat, pointed out during a legislative hearing last week, there are 1,135 fewer people working for DHS today than there were when Gov. Terry Branstad took office in 2010. That alone is cause for alarm, despite the department's assurances that the number of child-protection workers within the agency has remained level.

McCoy says some DHS caseworkers are handling as many as 50 to 70 cases at a time. DHS officials flatly deny that and say that on average workers are handling a little over 13 cases at any given time, a slight decrease from a few years ago.

Is that average the result of "data manipulation," as McCoy alleges? It's possible. He says payroll data shows that in 2016, 156 of Iowa's child-protection workers collected more than $5,000 each in overtime pay. In 2015, one social worker earned more than $40,000 a year in overtime pay by working 60-plus hours per week, he says.

Apparently, it's going to take an independent investigation just to get a handle on actual caseloads, which should not be the case. The Iowa Legislature's oversight committees might be able to get to the bottom of this particular issue, and the Child Welfare Policy and Practice Group, hired by DHS to conduct a review of Iowa's child welfare system, may shed additional light on the matter.

But the parameters of the Child Welfare Policy and Practice Group review seem limited. It's expected to entail six on-site visits at a total cost of just $39,550. Fortunately, the state ombudsman's office is conducting its own investigations  and unlike the practice group, it's not doing so at the behest of DHS itself.

Wendy Rickman, division administrator of adult children and family services at DHS, has told lawmakers that 99.7 percent of the Iowa children in foster care "are free from any kind of maltreatment."

That's an impressive statistic, but to be entirely accurate, Rickman should have added the phrase, "as far as we know." After all, the day before she died of malnutrition, Sabrina Ray would have been counted among the 99.7 percent.

It's entirely possible that DHS now has too few staffers to reliably determine just how much abuse is occurring in these homes. It's easy to claim there are few cases of child abuse in Iowa if many of the people charged with spotting abuse have been saddled with unmanageable caseloads.

Aside from caseloads and staffing levels, legislators and other investigators need to examine the laws and regulations that make it possible for children in state-subsidized adoptive homes to go "off the grid"  removed from the public school system as home-schooled students who then have little or no interaction with the outside world. Both Sabrina and Natalie were home-schooled at the time of their deaths.

In 2013, legislation eliminated the reporting requirements that had been imposed on Iowa's home-school families. Iowa is now one of only 11 states that don't require families to give notice to the state if they are home-schooling, which means no one knows who in Iowa is home-schooling their children. The state doesn't even have statistical information that would indicate how many children are being home schooled.

Some lawmakers are now calling for a new requirement that home-schooled children in foster care meet semiannually with a teacher and/or health care professional. That idea has merit, but more is needed.

It will likely be several months before the public has a better handle on DHS' interaction with the families of Sabrina Ray and Natalie Finn. In the meantime, Gov. Kim Reynolds will have to replace former DHS Director Charles Palmer, who resigned shortly after the details of Sabrina's death were made public.

The department is in desperate need of a leader who is more than a proxy for the governor. It needs a leader who is willing to fight for the agency, its funding, its workers and all the vulnerable Iowans who depend on DHS to keep them out of harm's way.

This editorial appeared in the June 10 edition of the Des Moines Register.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cuba Ventures Corp. (TSX-V:CUV) (OTCBB:MPSFF) (the Company) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Letter of Intent ("LOI") which outlines the general terms and conditions of a proposed transaction with certain shareholders of International Business & Travel Opportunities, LLC, a duly licensed Travel Agency located in Florida USA (the IBTO Selling Shareholders") pursuant to which the Company shall acquire a 30% minority interest in IBTO in exchange for common shares of Cuba Ventures Corp and transaction costs. Further, Cuba Ventures Corp CEO, Steve Marshall, provided commentary on CNN as Air-force One landed in Miami, during the highly anticipated Presidents address to the nation concerning the renewed United States policy towards Cuba in the Trump era. Mr Marshall provides investors with a summary of U.S policy changes, as per the presidents speech, signed executive order and new (OFAC) regulations issued on 16th June 2017.



Foreword on President Trumps national address on 16 th January 2017

Cuba Ventures Corp CEO Steve Marshall provides a foreword to all investors:

Over the past six months, the impending position of the incoming U.S administration of President Trump, concerning future relations with Cuba and, more specifically, the fate of the previous administration's rapprochement to the Republic of Cuba, has produced augmented uncertainty. Today, the official position of the government has been revealed and, both management and I can establish that the underlying effects of these subtle policy modifications are unlikely to affect the financial prospects or revenues of Cuba Ventures Corp. Our rationale is based upon two principal facts. Firstly, Cuba Ventures' income from the United States is still only a negligible amount of the company's total revenue. Cuban-American visitors make up the majority of this revenue, as they visit family and friends on the island. Cuban Americans have remained exempt from both the Obama and, the new Trump policies. Mainly, they continue to be free to travel to their homeland as many times as is desired. Secondly, neither Cuba Ventures Corp nor its subsidiaries, have any commercial relationships with entities or individuals associated with; Cuban military, intelligence or security services. The now clarified policy emanating from the White House will thus allow Cuba Ventures to charter a path to continued growth and success within the confines of these policies. Finally, we also foresee large revenue growth resulting from the acquisition of IBTO and, the dissemination across our Cuba media network of legal group travel packages within the United States.

Proposed acquisition of International Business & Travel Opportunities, LLC



IBTO is a cash-flow positive, duly licensed, Florida USA based travel agency that specializes in travel to Cuba. IBTO organizes trips to Cuba under the auspices of US regulations. International Business & Travel Opportunitiess has specialized in educational and cultural trips to Cuba for groups of United States citizens desirous of visiting Cuba.



International Business & Travel Opportunities, LLC specializes in thematic upscale groups traveling to Cuba. International Business & Travel Opportunities, LLC, with its exclusive itineraries, has hosted; Doctors, Lawyers, Accountants, Contractors, Hunting trips, fishing trips, hiking and special festivals in accordance with USA travel restrictions. Steve Marshall, Cuba Ventures CEO, stated, The planned acquisition of International Business & Travel Opportunities, LLC allows us to tap the ever growing interest by the US traveler to Cuba, exposing travel itineraries compliant with latest June 16th policy changes, as set out by office of foreign assets control, to the over 35 million page views generated by our 432 websites and booking platforms, of which over 38.9% of web visitors now originate from the United States. Through IBTO, the company will be able to promote and market; flights originating from the United States, Cruises originating from Florida (and, when available, the entire U.S) and travel packages compliant with the 16 June 2017 U.S. regulations and, those thereafter.



Cuba Ventures Corp and International Business & Travel Opportunities will continue to expand the existing travel and Cuba focused marketing initiatives in numerous sectors with a specific spotlight on the renewed US-Cuba travel market as per President Trumps 16 June address.



The LOI was negotiated at arm's length. Both Cuba Ventures Corp and International Business & Travel Opportunities agree that preparation and execution of a definitive agreement (the "Definitive Agreement") is required on or before 1st Sept 2017, such Definitive Agreement to contain the terms and conditions substantially set forth in the LOI. In addition, the Definitive Agreement may include additional terms as each of the parties might agree after good faith negotiations. There can be no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be completed as proposed or at all.



Cuba Ventures Corp shall acquire from the Selling Shareholders a 30% equity interest in International Business & Travel Opportunities for the issuance of 500,000 Cuba Ventures Corp shares at a deemed price of $0.05 per share and, a 10,000 CAD cash consideration. On closing, Cuba Ventures Corp will become the registered holder of 30% of the issued and outstanding shares of International Business & Travel Opportunities. Closing of the acquisition of the 30% interest in International Business & Travel Opportunities is anticipated to occur after the signing of the execution of the Definitive Agreement, on or before 1st September 2017 and, the acceptance for filing of the Definitive Agreement by the TSX Venture Exchange.

Synopsis of the changes in U.S. policy as set out by the Trump administration

On June 16th 2017 President Donald Trump addressed the nation, outlining his administrations policy towards the Republic of Cuba. While the president proclaimed a complete change in policy, the following aspects of the Obama administrations Cuba rapprochement policies remain intact:

Continuation of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba & Diplomatic relations

Unlimited travel by Cuban Americans to their homeland

Unlimited remittances by qualified American citizens to qualified residents in Cuba

Continued Cruise services from the United States to the Republic of Cuba

Continued commercial flights from the United States to the Republic of Cuba

Continued Travel to Cuba undertaken by American travelers who visit the island on people-to-people group travel itineraries

Continued business negotiations between US and Cuban entities not associated with the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services.

Obamas exclusion of Cuba from the state sponsor of terrorism list

Obamas annulment of the wet-foot/dry-foot immigration policy

Notable Trump Administration policy changes, in contrast to the Obama administration.

Restrictions on direct transactions with entities related to the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services





The State Department will be publishing a list of entities (Cuban military, intelligence, security services) with which direct transactions generally will not be permitted. This list will almost certainly include; Companies, entities, Hotels, On-Site services, Transportation Services, etc. owned or controlled by Cuban armed forces controlled businesses and commercial interests.





Abolition of individual (sole traveler) people-to-people visits to Cuba. Such visits, during the Obama era, in which U.S. citizens were not members of a group of travelers and essentially traveled alone, with or without a pre-arranged trip itinerary (known as a general license), will be prohibited.

See: https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Documents/cuba_faqs_20170616.pdf

Cuba Ventures in the media

Cuba Ventures Discusses New US-Cuba Policy on CNN (ESPANOL)

https://youtu.be/vfXcelf6vbg

Cuba Ventures Vito Echevarria Interviewed by Max Keizer of RT News on US-Cuban policy

https://youtu.be/mvRtAsxgh2Q

Cuba Ventures Interviews with Al Jazeera Regarding US-Cuban Policy Changes

https://youtu.be/rvN01_6qB5M

Cuba Ventures CEO Steve Marshall appears on Canadas BNN news:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awuN-POY4Cg&t=20s

Vito Echevarria of Cuba Ventures appears on Telemundo Washington

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hp_w5gqroc

Cuba Ventures CEO Steve Marshall interviewed on uptick news radio

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsyM11F9IJg

About Cuba Ventures Corp.:

Cuba Ventures Corp. is a publicly traded Canadian company capitalizing on the growth and unique opportunities in the USD $3.5 billion per year Cuban travel and tourism industry. Travelucion, a wholly owned subsidiary, is a digital media and marketing company which owns a vast portfolio of Cuba related websites and online portals providing travel information, featuring individual web assets for Cuba's popular cities and towns, online booking solutions and online reservations through proprietary software, catering to international visitors to Cuba. Travelucion's online travel division is a duly licensed retail travel supplier handling millions of dollars in sales annually.

Travelucion's 432 Cuba focused multilingual websites generate over 30 million page-views per year, directing traffic to the company's online booking and e-commerce sites. These online websites cover all facets of Cuba including over 80 travel destinations, hotels & resorts, bed & breakfast, tours, car rentals, restaurants, as well as Cuban culture, history, music, celebrities, sports, medical treatments and more.

Travelucion's revenues have been rapidly growing in the wake of the notable shift in American policy towards Cuba. With diplomatic relations now normalized and restrictions on qualified American travel to Cuba relaxed, opening of the multi-billion dollar travel market to the Caribbean nation is becoming a reality. Travelucion's continued media dominance over the past two decades has provided Cuba Ventures with a competitive advantage in the burgeoning Cuba travel and online media space. With the relaxing of rules for American travelers to Cuba and the potential of further easing, growth and investment opportunities are on the rise in Cuba.

Cuba Ventures consulting division harnesses over 60 years of combined advisor experience in submitting and, obtaining approval, for joint ventures, joint production agreements and import/export permits for foreign enterprises. More recently the company has taken a royalty approach for future agreements between third parties anxious to begin comercial operations with Cuba and, the companys Cuba Consulting Unit.

For further information on Cuba Ventures Corp. (TSX-V:CUV) or Travelucion visit the Companys website at www.cubaventures.com or www.travelucion.com. The Company has 72,412,487 shares issued and outstanding.

CUBA VENTURES CORP.

STEVE MARSHALL

______________________________

Steve Marshall

CEO

For further information contact myself or:

Nick Findler

Cuba Ventures Corp.

Telephone: 604-639-3850

Toll Free: 800-567-8181

Facsimile: 604-687-3119

Email: info@cubaventures.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.
Wireless provider AT&T is hosting a virtual reality demonstration of distracted driving in College Station today, giving participants the chance to experience a 360-degree simulation of how digital distractions in the car can have serious consequences.

The free demonstration is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lincoln Recreation Center.

Officials said the simulation -- featuring a more than 2 1/2-minute-long "car ride" in which the participant takes on the point of view of the driver -- is part of AT&T's national "It Can Wait" campaign, launched in 2010, which works to encourage drivers to avoid smartphone distractions such as texting and social media while driving.

The simulation and AT&T's campaign are in line with the law passed by the city of College Station in November banning the hands-on use of cell phones while driving -- a position that will be expanded statewide this fall by legislation outlawing the use of mobile phones to text while driving.

Last month, state lawmakers passed the statewide ban, making Texas the 47th state to enact such legislation. While College Station's ban prohibits driver's from operating a cell phone in any way while in motion, the statewide ban is specifically focused on the reading, writing and sending of electronic messages.

The ban could see changes by the time it is implemented, however -- a move which could affect College Station and other local governments like it which already have passed laws regulating cell phone use in the car.

In a press conference announcing he had signed the ban into law earlier this month, Gov. Greg Abbott said he hopes to take the legislation further to achieve his goal of a more unified regulation across the state during the upcoming special session of the Legislature, set to begin July 18.

According to The Texas Tribune, Abbott said he was "not satisfied" that the ban did not replace regulations already in place in the more than 60 cities.

"Now that Texas does have a statewide ban on texting and driving, I am calling for legislation that fully preempts cities and counties from any regulation of mobile devices in vehicles," Abbott said in the press conference. "We don't need a patchwork quilt of regulations that dictate driving practices in Texas."

Current data on the number of citations issued in College Station in the seven months since the cell phone ban went into effect were not immediately available Sunday.

The statewide ban is set to take effect Sept. 1.
Three Bryan men were arrested Saturday after authorities said an attempted traffic stop for speeding led to a pursuit through College Station.

Jamerson Shirley-Johnson, 20, Ladarion Johnson, 17, and Preston Wiggins, 19, all remained in the Brazos County Jail as of Sunday evening with bail amounts of $20,000, $10,000 and $2,000, respectively.

Police said an officer was patrolling Harvey Mitchell Parkway when the officer noticed a car drive by at 75 mph in a 60 mph zone. After a pursuit, in which officials said the vehicle attempted to speed away from the officer, the car eventually came to a stop in a parking lot near Wellborn Road, authorities said.

Authorities said items thrown from the car during the chase were identified as hydrocodone pills and marijuana. Police said additional marijuana was found in the vehicle.

When officers caught up, they said Shirley-Johnson, Johnson and Wiggins remained in the car. Police said two additional people -- the driver and one passenger -- fled the vehicle but were not found.

All three men received Class B misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and Shirley-Johnson and Johnson were charged with tampering with physical evidence, a third degree felony offense.

Shirley-Johnson also was charged with second degree felony possession of a controlled substance.
LE BOURGET, France, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (CPI Aero) (NYSE MKT:CVU) announced today at the International Paris Air Show that it has received a development contract from UTC Aerospace to provide engineering and design support for the TacSAR (Tactical Synthetic Aperture Radar) reconnaissance system. TacSAR is a long-range synthetic aperture radar system designed for overland and maritime reconnaissance and surveillance, and is being developed by UTC Aerospace Systems with Selex ES, now Leonardo, S.p.A.



CPI Aero will develop a complete manufacturing drawings data package from the engineering design data provided by UTC Aerospace Systems. The data package will include fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, parts lists, interface drawings, tooling drawings and other documentation sufficient for the manufacturing of the complete TacSAR pod structure. The work being performed by CPI Aero is similar to work performed during the pre-production phase of the DB-110 reconnaissance pod CPI Aero currently manufactures for UTC Aerospace Systems. The TacSAR pod system complements the DB-110 system to provide all-weather reconnaissance and surveillance and will contain some structural components common to the DB-110 pod.

According to UTC Aerospace Systems, more than a dozen countries operate its DB-110 reconnaissance pod and can integrate the TacSAR pod seamlessly into their existing operations using the same aircraft interfaces, real-time data links and intelligence exploitation systems.

Douglas J. McCrosson, president and CEO of CPI Aero, commented, We are very pleased to be selected by UTC Aerospace Systems to once again support them in the manufacture of one of their advanced reconnaissance systems. We look forward to supporting both UTC Aerospace Systems and Leonardo as market demand for this state-of-the-art system grows.

About CPI Aero

CPI Aero is a U.S. manufacturer of structural assemblies and value-added kits for fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft in both the commercial aerospace and defense markets. CPI Aero also manufactures pod-based, airborne avionics systems for Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Electronic Warfare (EW) and Radar end-markets. Within the global aerostructure supply chain, CPI Aero is either a Tier 1 supplier to aircraft OEMs or a Tier 2 subcontractor to major Tier 1 manufacturers. CPI also is a prime contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense, primarily the Air Force. In conjunction with its assembly operations, CPI Aero provides engineering, program management, supply chain management, and MRO services. CPI Aero is included in the Russell Microcap Index.

The above statements include forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, which are described from time to time in CPI Aero's SEC reports, including CPI Aero's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2017.

CPI Aero is a registered trademark of CPI Aerostructures, Inc. For more information, visit www.cpiaero.com, and follow us on Twitter @CPIAERO.
BOCA RATON, Fla., June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q.E.P. CO., INC. (OTC:QEPC.PK) (the Company) today announced the election by the Companys Board of Directors of one new member. George Markowsky has joined the Board of Directors of the Company as an independent director effective June 16, 2017.



"We are pleased to welcome George to QEPs Board of Directors," stated Mr. Lewis Gould, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We have known George for many years and his experience and guidance will be invaluable to us.

Mr. Markowsky recently retired in 2017 as Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager from Bank of America Business Capital (BABC). In his 30 years with BABC, he most recently directed a team of account executives handling asset based loans and credit structures for domestic and international clients.

Q.E.P. Co., Inc., founded in 1979, is a world class, worldwide provider of innovative, quality and value-driven flooring and industrial solutions. As a leading manufacturer, marketer and distributor, QEP delivers a comprehensive line of hardwood and laminate flooring, flooring installation tools, adhesives and flooring related products targeted for the professional installer as well as the do-it-yourselfer. In addition, the Company provides industrial tools with cutting edge technology to the industrial trades. Under brand names including QEP, ROBERTS, Capitol, HarrisWood, Fausfloor, Vitrex, Homelux, TileRite, PRCI, Nupla, HISCO, Plasplugs, Ludell, Porta-Nails, Tomecanic, Benetiere and Elastiment, the Company sells its products to home improvement retail centers, specialty distribution outlets, municipalities and industrial solution providers in 50 states and throughout the world.
WACO gets a crack at the first state championship game in school history
NORWALK  Norwalk police have charged an 18-year-old in the May burglary of a Winfield Street deli.

Barry Turner, of Norden Place, turned himself in at police headquarters Monday morning upon learning of a warrant for his arrest. He was charged with third-degree burglary, third-degree larceny, conspiracy to commit third-degree burglary and conspiracy to commit third-degree larceny.

Police said that Turner was one of two men who broke into Jesus Deli and Grocery at 81 Winfield St. at 12:36 a.m. May 21.

During the course of the investigation, Detective Brendan Collins obtained a warrant for Turners arrest. Surveillance photos released by police in May showed one of the men wearing a white Nike hat with metallic swoosh symbol and a green Boston Celtics jacket.

The second man was wearing a hat, hooded sweatshirt, shorts and black sneakers. He had sleeve tattoos on both arms and may have suffered an injury to his left wrist during the incident.

Police did not disclose what was taken in the burglary.

Turners bond was set at $25,000 and he was given a court date of June 25.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Collins at 203-854-3191 or bcollins@norwalkct.org.

Anonymous tips can be left at any of the below contacts:

Norwalk Police Tip Line at 203-854-3111;

Anonymous internet tips can be sent to Norwalk police website at www.norwalkpd.com;

Anonymous text tips can be submitted by typing NPD into the text field, followed by the message, and sending it to CRIMES (274637).

llake@hearstmediact.com
Main Street in Glen Carbon is going to be the site of major work within the coming month.

At the last regular meeting of the Glen Carbon Village Board, trustees awarded a $442,370 contract to Korte and Luitjohan Contractors Inc. for the Main Street water main replacement project.

Public Works Coordinator Danny Lawrence said the work will take place from the Covered Bridge to Route 157.

The awarded bid was the lowest of three.

Lawrence said the village has budgeted a total of $630,000 for the project but estimated that the total project cost is anticipated to be $526,370. Included in the total project cost are engineering fees at $84,000.

Village Administrator Jamie Bowden said the construction might be an inconvenience to some residents.

We will be crossing Main Street two times and we will get the appropriate notices out to the people who will be affected, Bowden said. Residents in some of the older neighborhoods and Crystal View, they will be notified of the construction.

Bowden also said residents will be getting a notice in the mail regarding the work and lead in drinking water.

A new statutory requirement from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency makes it compulsory for municipalities to inform residents of lead risks when undertaking water main repair or replacement projects.

Charlie Juneau, Juneau Associates Inc., said the mailing is required in order to get a permit to do the work.

The state established a new policy with a special condition that all people that receive water off the water line have to receive a notice about water quality, he said.

Bowden said the notice will go out 14 days before construction begins.

It is a letter letting people know that the quality of the water could change as a result of the construction. It explains the risks and gives residents tips on how to make sure their water is safe.

Bowden said the notice is a statutory requirement and it is a proactive step to insure everyone has safe drinking water.

The project is set to begin within the next month.

Bowden encouraged residents who have concerns to contact the Village Hall at (618) 288-2614.
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Linkedin EDITORIAL (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 08:42 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5c7041 4 Editorial #Editorial,logistics-costs,economic-package,economic-growth,development-outside-Java,infrastructure-development Free

We welcome, yet with qualifications, the 15th reform package that focuses on the utterly inefficient logistics service, dubbed the main cause of the economic uncompetitiveness given the poor execution of earlier reforms. Even though the reforms were issued last Thursday after five months of delay, the package consists mostly of general directives that have yet to be translated into technical details and require the amendments of several presidential decrees and many ministerial regulations.

Chief economics minister Darmin Nasution himself acknowledged when launching the measures that one or two additional reform packages would still be needed to complete an overall reform of the logistics industry that covers transportation, freight forwarding, seaport handling and storage (warehousing).

But this package is at least on the right track because it emphasizes deregulating and streamlining bureaucratic services within the industry, expediting the Indonesian national single window (INSW) scheme at port handling, simplifying licensing requirements and removing foreign equity restrictions in joint venture logistics companies.

The litmus test for this reform is the effectiveness of the implementation of the INSW program, which was launched in 2007 in light of Indonesias commitment to the ASEAN NSW program, but was virtually stalled by lack of ministerial coordination and cooperation.

INSW represents a major effort at facilitating trade by expediting the clearance of goods across Indonesias borders by simplifying and streamlining customs clearance and cargo release procedures involving 18 ministries and institutions. When fully established, traders and government agencies will be able to process all official export/ import documents through a single point of contact.

President Joko Jokowi Widodo must set his mind on this logistics reform as strongly as he has been pushing with the massive infrastructure development program, which has removed one of the sources of inefficiency in logistics. The current reform package is also designed to eliminate other main barriers such as excessive regulations, red tape and corruption.

Inefficient port handling and sea transportation hinder connectivity between the islands, depriving least developed regions of links to growth centers on other islands and making it very difficult to connect resource producing regions on the outer islands such as Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Papua, Maluku and Nusa Tenggara to the more developed major islands, Java and Sumatra.

This connectivity problem has hindered the development of manufacturing industries on the sparsely populated outer islands because manufactured products have to be transported either to Java and Sumatra or the international market. However, inefficient sea transportation makes the supply chains extremely fragmented and prevents the integration of manufacturing companies into the global value chains.

This package should also address the problems arising from the highly fragmented regulatory environment, where each service component of the logistics system requires a permit from different institutions and is subject to different laws and regulations.
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Linkedin Inforial (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta, Indonesia  Mon, June 19, 2017

After four decades of its existence, Marques de Casa Concha is considered the leading brand for innovation for incorporating new wines into its portfolio, harvesting earlier and discovering new Denominations of Origin, which has made this cutting-edge Chilean brand a flagship for innovation.

Dynamic, energetic and active, Marques de Casa Concha celebrates its 40th year of making extraordinary wines and facing changes and future challenges of the global wine industry with a strong focus on innovation.

Marques de Casa Concha embodies all the tradition and excellence of Concha y Toro and aims to show the diversity of Chile by launching through its history multiple wine varieties of diverse origins.

-(-/Photo: Courtesy of Concha y Toro)

All Marques de Casa Concha wines are single vineyard, where the complex relationships with nature, the way a vineyard is set out and the years the vines have taken to enrich their grapes give every variety in the range a unique personality.

Its Sauvignon Blanc, for instance, hails from the Leyda Poniente Vineyard in Leyda Valley. It is clean and bright and a greenish straw yellow. It has aromas of lime and grapefruit followed by ripe white peach and fresh-cut grass. This is an intense yet mild wine with a delicious concentration of flavors enveloped in a mineral structure.

In contrast, the Syrah comes from Quinta de Maipo Vineyard in Maipo Valley. It is dark and deep red, and is rich and balanced, with layers of currant, spice, wild berry and plum. It has a nice touch of vanilla, oak and mocha. Though tannic now, this wine should evolve.

The Leyda Poniente Vineyard itself is cool with strong coastal influences, with hillside associated soils. Meanwhile, the Maipo Valley is strongly Andes-influenced in terms of climate, has Riverbench associated soils and is alluvial, stony, poor in nutrients and highly permeable due to the gravel sub-soil.

In recent years, the line, led by winemaker Marcelo Papa, has recognized the latest trends and styles creating surprising, captivating wines that faithfully express their variety and the unique characteristics of its place of origin.

Therefore, the brand has taken a chance on such groundbreaking ideas as developing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Limari Valley, launching its Limited Editions versions of Pais Cinsault and Cabernet Sauvignon, and changing the Denomination of Origin of its two most emblematic varieties in search of greater elegance and fruit expression.

And that was just the beginning. It's all part of a long history of excellence and innovation. Over the years, the wines of Marques de Casa Concha have all won Vintage Scores of above 90 at Wine Spectator. Similarly, Wine & Spirit, JamesSuckling.com and Wine Enthusiast have all also given it Vintage Scores of above 90 points. It is consistently a 90-plus point brand.
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Linkedin Michael Hegarty (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 11:06 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5cca23 4 People 1965-mass-killing,history,PKI,The-Year-of-Living-Dangerously,Frank-Palmos Free

When the events of 1965 in Indonesia are discussed, they are almost always seen through the prism of what happened on Oct. 1 and in the weeks and months that followed  focusing on the purge of communists and suspected communists that followed the kidnapping and murder of the Army generals on that fateful day.

In that narrative, the Indonesia Communist Party (PKI) is always painted as the victim and the Army is cast as the villain. However, while there is great sympathy  as there should be  for people who suffered injustices in those days, we rarely hear of what led up to the bloodletting.

It is simply presented as Indonesians doing what they do, running amok in an orgy of inexplicable violence and butchering entirely innocent people who posed no threat to Indonesia or its unity and security as a nation.

So it was that the lecture given by veteran Australian journalist, and now historian, Frank Palmos at Plataran Menteng recently provided an incredibly stark counter to this narrative by explaining the context of the chaos into which Indonesia had descended in 1964 and 1965 caused by the PKIs pursuit of a radical Maoist ideology at the instigation of China, itself going through a similar period of insanity at the hands of the Red Guards.

Read also: The Museum of Dullah - Rising from dark history of 1965

Using dozens of his own photographs (including a delightful shot of the stunning Dewi Sukarno holding a teddy bear he had presented her), Palmos spoke for well over two hours, and his audience would have happily listened for two hours more. He explained in fascinating detail how the PKI, and more importantly president Sukarno  of whom Palmos had once been a devoted fan  in his support for the party, pushed Indonesia to the brink of disaster, a disaster that Palmos described as inevitable.

On the rise: A communist symbol dominates Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan, in 1965 at a massive Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) rally.(Frank Palmos/File)

Palmos, the inspiration for the main character in the book and movie The Year of Living Dangerously, was a witness to the madness, brutality and visceral hatred that was being whipped up daily on the streets, in communities and schools against westerners and anyone perceived as being imperialists by the PKIs masters in Beijing.

Imperialists included not only the usual suspects, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and of course Malaysia, against whom Sukarno was fighting a largely non-existent war, but even at one point India, which was in conflict with Chinas ally Pakistan and whose embassy was ransacked by a PKI-led mob.

Read also: Can fiction ever be an alternative to history?

Along with stunts like the Indian Embassy episode, Sukarnos decision, again at Beijings behest, to pull out of the United Nations alienated even Indonesias friends in the Non-Aligned Movement, in which Indonesia had once strode as a colossus following the Bandung conference 10 years earlier.

As Indonesias international standing plummeted, so did its economy with the rupiah becoming virtually worthless, foreign aid drying up (to no ones surprise shouting Go to Hell with your aid! had consequences) and Western businesses being harassed and attacked on a regular basis and their staff being threatened and abused.

Beauty: Sukarnos Japanese-born wife Dewi clutches a teddy bear presented to her by Frank Palmos during an interview in 1965.(Frank Palmos/File)

Amid this frenzy, being a journalist in Jakarta became an extremely stressful job, with consequences ranging from being expelled because some story offended Sukarnos amour propre, to being beaten and having ones camera smashed for taking a photograph at the wrong place or wrong time.

In the face of this Palmos and his colleagues founded the then Djakarta Foreign Correspondents Club (DFCC, later JFCC). Now a convivial club for expats to meet and chat over a drink, the JFCC was then a shelter for foreign correspondents, including many Eastern Bloc journalists who also felt the need to seek refuge from the craziness among their imperialist colleagues.

Read also: Museum still conveys New Order version of history

Palmos spoke of those days with intense clarity, and at times great humor, regularly leaving his audience bellowing in laughter at the absurdities that arose during this time of madness.

He was a journalist and did what journalists nowadays so often fail to do; he went out looking for the story, including the site of the ludicrous Indonesian atomic bomb project.

Not so ludicrous was his reporting on the Long March of May 1965, which convinced Palmos that the PKI had no massed army in the Javanese heartland but would instead rely on a single powerful  what Palmos described as a stiletto  blow in Jakarta if it wished to achieve power and defeat the Army before the expected imminent demise of Sukarno.

While Palmos does not underestimate or dismiss the horrors of the subsequent purge, he is blunt in his estimation of the place that Oct. 1, 1965, occupies in the history of Indonesia. It was a defining moment that saved the nation, equivalent to the Declaration of Independence and the Battle of Surabaya. Had Beijing succeeded in neutralizing the Army and getting the PKI into government, Indonesia would have disintegrated and those parts of Java under PKI control would have suffered horrors akin to Pol Pots later rule in Cambodia. A stark and sobering assessment indeed.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 12:03 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5d210d 1 Lifestyle mudik,#mudik,safety,safety-check,car,#car,vehicle,Transportation,#Transportation Free

Mudik (exodus) is a tradition among residents of Jakarta to celebrate Idul Fitri.

Since airline and train tickets usually sell out quickly, driving home may become the only option for some.

Chevrolet Indonesia shares six tips to stay safe during mudik as reported by Antara news agency.

Plan your trip

Global positioning system (GPS) apps are useful for those driving home. However, reading a map while driving could be dangerous, hence, it is suggested to check the map and plan the route prior to the journey.

Alternatively, GPS voice navigation can be used for those wanting to get directions without looking at a screen.

Schedule your trip

Avoid driving at night, especially when you feel sleepy or tired. For a long journey, it is recommended to rest for three hours during the trip.

Meanwhile, for those fasting and driving, it is suggested to depart after iftar (breaking-of-the-fast meal) or sahur (pre-dawn meal).

Read also: What to prepare before you leave for 'mudik'

Check your vehicle

Prior to the journey home, have a mechanic check out your car.

Do the general vehicle inspection by checking the tires, battery, oils, windshield wipers and ensure that the lights function properly.

Do not carry excess passengers

Though sometimes "the more, the merrier", this belief does not apply for mudik. Too many passengers may affect car stability and force the brakes to work harder.

Maintain your distance

Always maintain your distance with the vehicle in front of you. The defensive driving theory mentions a three-second rule between vehicles under normal conditions. Meanwhile, the four-second rule between vehicles applies during rain.

Fasten your seat belt

Before driving, it is important to ask all passengers to fasten their seat belts.

Seat belts are proven to protect passengers during an accident. (jes/asw)
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Linkedin Sebastian Partogi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 10:48 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5cb7df 4 Books #bookreview,men-without-women,Haruki-Murakami,short-stories,mental-health Free

If the late frontman of the American rock band The Doors Jim Morrison was the cult figure embodying the flower generation of the 1960s anti-establishment stance complete with fascination with sex, drugs and all things associated with the dark side, it is fair to say that nowadays Japanese author Haruki Murakami is on the altar of angst-ridden millennials.

Similar to Morrison, Murakamis craft highlights the dark side of the human psyche, of people looking inside themselves only to look at disturbing and demoralizing pictures. He also frequently features obsessions with sexuality in his books.

Different from Morrison, though, Murakamis crafts rarely adopt defiant stance toward society or thanatophilia or obsession with death. Instead, the allure of Murakamis prose lies in his depiction of helplessness and melancholy of people who, for one reason or the other, fails to fit into the rigid boxes of society.

On a macro level, if you sense that there are more emos now than ever, your hunch is probably correct and this phenomenon is not an accident. It is intimately tied to the sense of alienation and detachment caused by the nature of our modern, capitalist society.

Writer Francis Fukuyama writes that thanks to the modern capitalist system, human needs have become very flexible to the point that it could be excessive. We want more things than we need: money, materials, prestige and status  the embodiment of power and recognition.

Read also: 10 reasons it's OK for adults to read young-adult novels

Excessive want means living constantly on a fast lane. All the while measuring everything based on prestige. According to British writer Daniel Nettle, this way of living leads to a sense of detachment, which in turn becomes paranoia and obsession.

In his latest short story collection Men Without Women, available in Indonesian imported bookstores starting May 6, Murakami chronicles the lives of people who cannot live up to modern capitalist societys impossibly high standards  in friendship, romantic relationships or marriage.

Therefore, they do not have many friends and have to live alone. They are taken over by their desire for companionship, intimacy and sexual pleasure. If they no longer desire these things due to being removed from human beings for too long, they then get caught up in their own imaginary (or real) antics.

True to the Murakamis brand of prose, the loneliness of these people then leads them to strange obsessions or absurd circumstances. No lonely man is immune to this, whether he is a medical doctor, bar owner, stage actor or just a simpleton  the main characters in each of the stories. If you have nobody to distract you from the darkest depth of your psyche, youre bound to swim on it.

Be it a stage actor who is haunted by his own unresolved past or a medical doctor and a female driver driven mad by unfulfilled intense sexual yearning to be devoured the opposite sex, these tales tell the stories that, out of embarrassment perhaps, most people might keep secret.

Read also: Six books you can actually finish

The sense of loneliness and dejection told by Murakami is also very similar to that expressed by troubled, angst-ridden youngsters through social media, blogs and vlog posts in confessional narratives of deeply personal pain that seem to be in fashion right now.

As a literary writer, however, Murakamis advantages lie in his use of literary devices such as hard-hitting metaphors and keen eyes for detail. Sexual obsession is described down to every detail, like in Scheherazade, where a woman recounts a story of how she used to break into his (unrequited) high school sweetheart to get a feel of him.

The narratives told in this short story collection, however, bring some disappointment. Different from his previous adult novels 1Q84 (2009-2010) and Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage ( 2014 ), where he offers some solutions to overcome ones angst, most of the stories here leave their characters hanging in the dark, lost in their own despair.

One exception is Samsa in Love  inspired by the famous Gregor Samsa character from Franz Kafkas Metamorphosis  the only story told through hilarious sense of humor which can make you laugh. For this story, Samsa is pretty fortunate to have seen glimpses of light at the end of the tunnel.

Or perhaps Murakami wants us to think for ourselves and draw our own conclusions and resolutions after reading these stories. Instead of becoming one of these emos who read Murakami in order to justify their own pain and endless whining (there are a lot of them out there), this book should help us to contemplate to find ways to connect with others in a healthier way.

Warning: do not read this book when you are in a melancholic mood or alone in your house. The dark longings portrayed in the stories cut so deep that it might impact your psychological well-being adversely.

_____________________________________________________

Men Without Women

Haruki Murakami

Translated by Philip Gabriel and Ted Goossen

Knopf, April 2017

228 pages
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 17:33 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e31d5 1 Lifestyle Ramadan-2017,ramadan,exodus,#car Free

With Idul Fitri just around the corner, some may be preparing a car to get home for the celebrations.

Those who do not own one, meanwhile, may find themselves looking to rental car companies for prospective vehicles.

Car rental companies are widely available in Jakarta as well as in the provinces outside the capital.

There are some things to consider before renting out a car. Make sure the company is well-known, has legitimate recommendations from friends or past users and provides a quality service. Also be sure to check that the vehicle in question is in a good condition.

Here are four tips according to kompas.com to help you pick out the right deal for the holiday journey.

Rental duration

While each rental car company can differ in its policies, the duration limit during the Idul Fitri period usually ranges from a minimum of three days to up to 10 days. Those who are traveling long distances, such as crossing provincial borders, are recommended to rent a car for at least one week to 10 days.

Some companies require several days to process each rental agreement, so it is recommended to inquire early to ensure availability.

Read also: Six tips to stay safe during mudik

Price

Some companies provide special prices for the holiday period, usually listed from five days before Idul Fitri to five days afterwards.

To rent a car for a day from Avanza, Xenia or Ertiga costs approximately Rp 850,000. This includes a personal driver.

Personal driver

One of the perks of renting a car is that the fees already include a personal driver. This can save you from a long and exhausting drive.

Some companies, however, require a minimum seven-day rental agreement for a deal that includes a personal driver, where total fees can amount to approximately Rp 5 million to Rp 6 million.

Requirements

Prospective renters should prepare the required paperwork beforehand. Required documents include an identity card or a family card. Large rental car companies also need a credit card to provide evidence of insurance. (liz/asw)
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Linkedin Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Semarang  Mon, June 19, 2017 06:33 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5c3ed8 2 National Densus-88,terrorism,terrorist-group,terrorists Free

The National Polices Detachment 88 anti-terror squad arrested a 40-year-old mechanic in Kendal regency, Central Java, on Sunday for alleged links to terrorism. In total, three alleged terrorists were arrested in the province on Sunday.

The mechanic, identified as Roh, was inside his home when three Detachment 88 officers raided the house and apprehended him, according to Rohs employee, Gito.

Read also: North Sulawesi Police deny reports of IS presence

Kendal Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Firman Darmasyah confirmed the arrests, but said the identities of the other two alleged terrorists were still unclear.

"One of them is [also] from Kendal and another is from Temanggung regency [also in Central Java]," Firman said.

The arrests of the three suspects came about a day after two alleged terrorists were arrested in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara. Police seized a homemade rifle, a sword and active explosive material from the home of Kurniawan, one the two suspects.

The police said Kurniawan was a member of the East Indonesia Mujahidin (MIT) terror group.

Following the death of MIT leader Santoso, alias Abu Wardah, in July last year, second-in-command Ali Kalora is believed to be leading the group.

Earlier in January, Central Sulawesi Police claimed that seven out of nine MIT members included in Operation Tinombala taskforce's most wanted list were from Bima. (bbs)
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Linkedin Julie Johnsson , Guy Johnson , and Benjamin D Katz (Bloomberg) Paris  Mon, June 19, 2017 23:00 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5ea1c4 2 Business Boeing-737,plan-order,Airbus,Paris Free

Boeing Co. received more than three dozen pledges to buy the planned Max 10 on the first day of the Paris Air Show, as the US company stretches its 737 workhorse to challenge Airbus SEs sales lead for the largest single-aisle airliners.

Boeing expects to win 240 orders or expressions of interest for the new model valued at roughly $30 billion from at least 10 different carriers during the industry event this week, the company said at the Max 10s launch announcement on Monday. Including other models and conversions of earlier contracts to Max 10s, Boeings Paris show order tally at the end of the day exceeded $37 billion, versus $12 billion at Airbus.

We think the timings just right for the Max 10, Chief Executive Officer Dennis Muilenburg said in an interview with Bloomberg Television at the show. Max 8 and Max 9 continue to be at the heart of the market. The Max 10 is going to add to a portfolio that boasts a production backlog of seven years.

Chicago-based Boeing is confident the Max 10 will stem customer defections to the Airbus A321neo, which has racked up a considerable order lead since its introduction three years ago. Airbus fired back Monday, downplaying the Boeing planes capabilities and securing orders worth about $12.3 billion at list prices from lessors GE Capital Aviation Services and Air Lease Corp. for Neo planes, including the smaller A320 version. Boeings Toulouse, France-based rival has also mulled further improvements to the A321neo variant.

The Max 10 will seat as many as 230 passengers, roughly matching its European rival, while burning 5 percent less fuel thanks to a lighter construction, Boeing says. SpiceJet Ltd. of India signed an agreement for 20 new orders for the largest 737 variant and converted existing commitments for the same number of smaller Max 8s. Tourism group TUI AG converted 18 orders to the new plane. BOC Aviation Ltd. and China Development Banks leasing arm signed memoranda of understanding for the purchase of 10 Max 10s each.

In addition to signing a contract for 100 Airbus planes, Gecas converted 20 orders for current Max versions to the larger variant. United Airlines and Indonesias Lion Mentari Airlines PT are also expected to place contracts at the Paris expo, people familiar with the negotiations said earlier this month. Airbus executives said the big 737 poses a bigger threat to other Boeing models than to the Neo.

No Threat

Do we see the 10 as a competitor of the A321? I think if you look at the numbers, the answer is no, Airbuss chief salesman, John Leahy, said Monday, adding that the Neo version has 10 more seats and can fly over 10,000 miles farther. Put that all that together and we think the 10 is a competitor to the 9, and I think thats why youre seeing a lot of people converting.

At least one potential Max 10 customer also voiced reservations. Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA CEO Bjorn Kjos wasnt convinced the planes range is compatible with the discount carriers strategy of plying the North Atlantic with single-aisle aircraft.

Im not sure the price is giving us the right bottom line, Kjos said at the Paris expo. It may be perfect inside the U.S., but not for us.

The Max 10, which will be Boeings first new model since the unveiling of the 777X series at the Dubai Air Show in 2013, will be 5 1/2 feet (1.68 meters) longer than the $119.2 million Max 9, currently the biggest member of the re-engined 737 family, which was launched alongside the Max 7 and 8 in 2011. Boeing said demand for single-aisle planes as well as wide-bodies remains buoyant despite concerns about economic and political turbulence in the Middle East and low fuel prices serving as disincentive to invest in more efficient aircraft.

We are continuing to see strong energy in the marketplace, said Muilenburg, predicting that new orders should roughly match deliveries this year. I think theres a little upside here this week at the Paris show.

Higher Thrust

The stretched version of the 737 will be achieved by adding a 40-inch (102-centimeter) segment in front of the planes wings, and a 26-inch plug behind them, with the wings themselves slightly modified to reduce drag at lower speeds. In order to carry the extra payload, the Max 10 will be equipped with larger, higher-thrust engines. The engines position on the wings will be moved to affect the aircrafts center of gravity.

The plane will also get taller landing gear to help resolve balance and tail-skid issues that cropped up with the 737-900ER, Keith Leverkuhn, general manager of the Max program, said in an interview at the show site at Le Bourget Airport on Sunday. The longest earlier-generation model is prone to tipping up if baggage isnt balanced carefully in the hold.

The cumulative changes, which Boeing reckons it has achieved on a shoestring budget, are resonating well with customers, Kevin McAllister, who heads Boeings commercial-airplanes arm, said Sunday.

The US planemaker projects that the Max 9 and 10 will together capture 25 percent to 30 percent of 737 sales over the next 20 years. The mid-sized Max 8 -- ordered by carriers including Southwest Airlines Co. -- will remain the core offering and account for the bulk of demand.

Airbus is also considering a response and could stretch the A321neo should demand be sufficient, sales supremo Leahy said in Mexico earlier this month, while dismissing the new Boeing plane as very marginal.

I can understand how our competition is upset, said Randy Tinseth, a Boeing marketing vice president. The Max 10 has the same capacity as our competition, flies a bit further, has better economics. I think over the next few days our customers will stand up and say its a good airplane too.
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Linkedin Newsdesk (JP) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 22:54 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e8b91 2 Business Geo-Dipa-Energi,geothermal-plant Free

JAKARTA: State-owned geothermal energy firm PT Geo Dipa Energi has announced a change in its name into PT Geothermal Nusantara, following its expansion into geothermal energy processing.

In a statement, the company says it will soon manage two new geothermal working areas (WKP) aside from its existing sites in Dieng Plateau, Central Java, and Patuha, West Java.

Geo Dipa Energi president director Riki Firmandha Ibrahim said the government had entrusted the company with managing two more WKPs in Umbul Telomoyo and Arjuno Welirang, East Java.

The decision is in line with the governments target to source 7,000 megawatts of electricity from geothermal energy by 2025, said Riki.

The company, along with the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministrys New and Renewable Energy Directorate General, updated the East Java administration on June 13 to seek support for the project.

WKP Arjuno Welirang has a potential power resource of 180 MW. We will find out about its reserve capacity, so we will be able to provide electricity to East Java residents, especially those living near Arjuno Welirang, said Geo Dipa Energi finance director Muhammad Ikbal Nur. (dea/tas)
PT Kobexindo Tractors president director Humas Soputro (center) talks to president commissioner Freddy Limawan (right) while managing director Andry Budiman looks on after a shareholders meeting in Jakarta on Friday. The heavy equipment distributor increased its sales volume by 39 percent to 114 units in the first three months of the year from the same period last year. (JP/Wendra Ajistyatama)(center) talks to president commissioner Freddy Limawan (right) while managing director Andry Budiman looks on after a shareholders meeting in Jakarta on Friday. The heavy equipment distributor increased its sales volume by 39 percent to 114 units in the first three months of the year from the same period last year. (JP/Wendra Ajistyatama)
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Linkedin Bernadette Christina Munthe (Reuters) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 23:19 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5ead61 2 Business rubber,rubber-prices Free

Indonesia is not worried about a recent slump in prices for rubber as market fundamentals remain strong, the industry body in the worlds No.2 producer of the commodity said on Monday.

Moenarji Soedargo, chairman of the Indonesian Rubber Association (Gapkindo), made the comment in the wake of a weekend meeting of the main international rubber producer group, held in Indonesia.

He declined to give details of discussions at the gathering, where producers had been expected to talk about rubber prices that touched seven-month lows early this month, partly due to a slowdown in imports by top consumer China.

Supply and demand conditions now are quite healthy, even better than two years ago, Soedargo said. Fundamentals are good, Gapkindo is not worried about prices.

He added that global rubber stocks currently stood at around 2.4 million tons, down from more than 3 million tons in 2015.

Soedargo also said that Indonesian production would taper off over the next few months as part of the usual production cycle, helping tighten global supply and supporting prices. (tas)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 17:27 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e2f15 1 City Brimob,Antara,abuse Free

The Jakarta Polices Mobile Brigade (Brimob) has apologized to the National News Agency (LKBN) Antara and its reporter Ricky Prayoga, a victim of alleged misconduct by several of its members.

Ricky said he was abused by the Brimob members while covering the Indonesia Open Super Series badminton tournament in the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) on Sunday.

Ricky said he was dragged by force from a queue for an ATM and around the event location at about 3 p.m. on Sunday

This case is shameful. On behalf of the Jakarta Police Mobile Brigade head, I beg pardon. We realize that our members made a mistake, Jakarta Brimob deputy commander Adj. Sr. Comr Heru Novianto said at Wisma Antara in Central Jakarta on Monday.

Heru said one officer First Brig. Adam Nasution and four of his colleagues were under internal investigation.

He said if they were found guilty of abuse, they would receive disciplinary punishments. He said his members had acted excessively.

They [Adam and Ricky] first looked at each other. Adam questioned why Ricky was looking at him and said it was forbidden. Adam is very young and he might have been in a bad mood, Heru explained.

Meanwhile, Antara president director Meidyatama Suryodiningrat expressed his appreciation for the Jakarta Brimobs quick response.

I thank Jakarta Brimob for their sincere apology. Although there hasnt yet been any conclusion to their internal investigation, we appreciate [Brimobs] comprehensive investigation [into the case], Meidyatama said. (dra)

Topics : Brimob Antara abuse
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 18:50 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e71ce 1 City Idul-Fitri-absence,idul-fitri-exodus,Jakarta-administration Free

While many Jakartans are preparing themselves for the long Idul Fitri holiday, officials from many city departments are ready to work in shifts to make sure the city runs smoothly.

The Public Order Agency [Satpol PP], Transportation Agency, Health Agency, Environmental Agency and Firefighter Agency are required to stand by and work in shifts, Jakarta Governor Djarot Saiful Hidayat said on Monday.

It would be a long holiday, Djarot said, from Jun. 23 until Jul. 3, a total of 10 days.

I have ordered the inspectorate not to give any leave extensions until after July 3, Djarot said, adding that those who were absent without acceptable reason would receive sanctions such as a cut in their regional performance allowances (TKD).

Djarot said that Jakarta civil servants could not leave their jobs before June 23 and they had to start working on time after July 3.

Djarot also said the long holiday was good because Jakartans could make their Idul Fitri exodus earlier, which would boost the economy in their hometowns and reduce traffic jams in the capital.

He also warned Jakarta civil servants not to use official vehicles during the Idul Fitri exodus. The vehicles can only be used for official purposes, he said, adding that those who were on duty in the city during the long Idul Fitri holiday could use official vehicles. (dra)
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Linkedin Callistasia Anggun Wijaya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 18:23 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e6ec5 1 City apartment,developer,Dispute Free

Thirteen Kalibata City apartment residents in South Jakarta have filed a lawsuit with South Jakarta District Court against the apartments developer Agung Podomoro Land (APL) for allegedly marking up electricity and water fees.

The lawsuit was addressed to APL's subsidiary companies PT Pradani Sukses Abadi, PT Prima Buana Internusa and Kalibata City Management Body, which the residents said was formed by the developer without their consent.

In their lawsuit, the residents said the electricity and water fees set by the management were not in accordance with state-owned electricity company PLN's regulations and the Jakarta Governor Decree of 2007 concerning water tariffs.

"The residents demand the management provide a legal basis to explain why it imposed the tariffs, which are not in accordance with the regulations," the residents' lawyer Syamsul Munir said on Monday.

The residents demanded APL pay Rp 23.176 million (US$1,744.78) for their material losses and Rp 13 billion for immaterial losses.

The first hearing was conducted on Monday, but was adjourned until June 17 as no party from APL was present at the hearing.

PT Prima Buana Internusa was represented by its lawyer, but failed to provide necessary documents, and was deemed unauthorized to undergo the hearing.

Separately, Kalibata City General Manager Ishak Lopung brushed off the accusation that the management had marked up the fees, saying they were set in accordance with existing regulations.

The management will attend the hearing in accordance with legal procedures, he said.

Topics : apartment developer Dispute
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Linkedin Margareth S. Aritonang (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 15:18 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5dd233 1 National #ElectionBill,election-bill Free

The General Elections Commission (KPU) has taken measures to anticipate last-minute approval of a bill that will set guidelines for the election body ahead of the countrys first simultaneous legislative and presidential elections in 2019.

The KPU has prepared two different drafts of its regulations, known as PKPU, to anticipate any outcome from the deliberation at the House of Representatives. The House deliberation is currently facing deadlock due to prolonged differences among House factions over five key issues, including the presidential nomination threshold and the electoral threshold, for securing seats in the House.

The measures were announced by KPU chief Arief Budiman before a meeting on Monday with lawmakers of a special committee in charge of the deliberation.

"We have prepared two different PKPU drafts. One of them comprises technicalities that interpret the old election law, while the other contains elements that are stipulated by the election bill," Arief said.

This is just in case [the House and the government decide to] use the old election law, as we have learned that discussions might lead to it, he added.

The Houses special committee is expected to make a final decision later today. (ipa)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 21:39 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e7f04 1 City killing,HIV,murder Free

The North Jakarta District Court sentenced a woman with HIV to three years in prison on Monday for killing her baby immediately after its birth last year.

The woman, identified only as LM, gave birth to her baby in October last year in a small public bathroom near a river behind her house in Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, and directly suffocated the baby and threw it into the river.

"The reason she did that was her fear that having transmitted HIV to the baby it might have a difficult life, said her lawyer Albert Wirya from the Community Legal Aid Institute (LBH Masyarakat).

The court found that LM had violated Article 341 of the Criminal Code (KUHP) on infanticide, with a maximum seven years imprisonment.

The prosecutors had demanded five years.

"We find that the article that was used to charge LM was correct, but still not appropriate for her situation. Her legal process was fair from the investigation, but I regret the fact that the police couldn't catch the other guilty parties, like her husband who committed domestic violence," said Albert.

LM was infected by her husband, Albert claimed. (mas)

Topics : killing HIV murder
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 18:32 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e7169 1 City robbery,Lampung,Davidson-Tantono Free

An armed robbery gang, known as the Lampung Gang, operating in Jakarta and other areas carried out robberies in 23 locations and amassed Rp 1.18 billion (US$ 88,815) within two months, the police have said.

They are alleged to have robbed and fatally shot in the head Davidson Tantono, 30, at a gas station in Daan Mogot, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, on June 9, taking Rp 350 million he withdrew beforehand at a bank.

The gang members mostly come from the same village and started robbing in April 2017, Jakarta Police mobile detective unit head Adj. Sr. Com. Aris Priyono said on Sunday, referring to a village in Lampung, Sumatra.

According to police records, the gang had carried out their crimes, which allegedly involved cruel methods, within the province and amassed tens to hundreds of millions of rupiah.

In the last two months, they robbed Rp 60 million in Tangerang, Banten, Rp 800 million in Bekasi, Rp 100 million in Kedung Halang, Bogor, West Java, Rp 150 million in Cikarang, West Java, and Rp 100 million in West Jakarta, the police records show.

The police alleged the gang had more than ten members, some of whom were arrested in connection with the Davidson shooting.

They divided the money based on their level of ability, Aris said as quoted by tribunnews.com. (dra)
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Linkedin Safrin La Batu (The Jakarta Post) Tarakan  Mon, June 19, 2017 10:08 1971 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5cb18f 1 National #Terrorism,terrorism,#marawi,Marawi,#TrilateralSeaPatrol,joint-patrol,Ryamizard-Ryacudu,#defense-cooperation Free

At least three Sukhoi jet fighters have been deployed to Tarakan, a town in North Kalimantan near the maritime border with the southern Philippines, to guard against insurgency and prevent Islamic State-linked Maute terrorists from entering Indonesia.

An ongoing battle between the Maute group and Philippines military in Marawi city on Mindanao Island in the Philippines has sparked concern in Indonesia that it might force the group members to flee the area and attempt to get into Indonesia.

The three Sukhoi jets were parked at the Tarakan Air Force base on Sunday afternoon, The Jakarta Post reporter observed.

The Sukhoi jets, which were deployed on Friday, would strengthen the military patrols that are already being conducted near the border with the Philippines, as reported by Antara news agency on Sunday. The jets would remain there for one month.

"The militants might flee the Philippines and be forced to cross the border into Indonesia," Tarakan Air Force base chief Colonel Didik Krisyanto said on Sunday as quoted by Antara.

On Monday, defense ministers from Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia launched a Trilateral Maritime Patrol, a joint patrol designed to drive back any insurgencies in the region. The event was also attended by defense ministers from Singapore and Brunai, both acting as observers. (ipa)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, June 19, 2017 21:44 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5e88e2 1 City robbery,money,campaign,Davidson-Tantono Free

One member of a gang of robbers, known as the Lampung Gang, that police believe was behind the fatal shooting of Davidson Tantono, 30, in West Jakarta is reportedly a village head candidate and planned to use the stolen money to finance his campaign.

He is jobless and was going to use the money from the robberies to finance his campaign in the village head election, Jakarta Police mobile detective unit head Adj. Sr. Com. Aris Priyono said on Sunday.

The suspect, identified only as DTK, who allegedly played a role in the theft of Rp 350 million (US$26,343.5) from Davidson on June 9, was registered for the village head candidacy in South Pardasuka, Katibung district, South Lampung regency, Lampung.

He has got a campaign team and they have started to gather support, Aris said as quoted by tribunnews.com, adding that DTK had promised his team he would prepare a big fund.

DTK got Rp 24 million and the other members received at least Rp 14 million each, he added.

The gang members divided the robbery proceeds based on the level of ability, the police said.

The Lampung Gang is believed to be responsible for robberies in 23 locations and to have stolen Rp 1.18 billion in two months.

Police shot another suspect, identified only as IR, dead while resisting arrest in Bogor, West Java.

The Jakarta Police are still hunting the gang leader, who is believed to have killed Davidson. (dra)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Star/Asia News Network) Ipoh, Malaysia  Mon, June 19, 2017 15:09 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5dc9ad 2 SE Asia elephant,Malaysia,accident Free

A two-year-old elephant was found dead in a pool of blood by the roadside of the Gerik-Jeli Highway in Gerik, some 130 kilometers from Ipoh.

Perak Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) director Loo Kean Seong said state officers found the carcass at around 7 a.m. last Friday.

While incidents like this do not happen often, we would like motorists to be extra careful when driving along this highway.

We have already erected signboards to notify motorists that there would be elephant crossings along the stretch of the highway, so they need to be more responsible, especially when they are driving late at night or early in the morning, said Loo.

Loo also urged motorists throughout the country to report to their respective state Perhilitan if they knocked into any endangered or protected species like elephants, tigers, tapirs or leopards.

This is so that we can at least investigate and bury the carcass instead of leaving it to rot at the roadside, he added.

Ecotourism and Conservation Society Malaysia (Ecomy) co-founder and chief executive officer Andrew Sebastian said the particular stretch of the highway itself should be viewed as a heritage road with potential for ecotourism.

Topics : elephant Malaysia accident
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Linkedin Nethy Dharma Somba (The Jakarta Post) Jayapura, Papua  Mon, June 19, 2017 15:34 1970 4065a5a8898c7cc661d4adf97a5dea54 1 News Lake-Sentani,Lake-Sentani-Festival,festival,#festival,Jayapura,Papua Free

The Lake Sentani Festival is said to be a unique lake festival in Indonesia since it has been consistently held every year for 10 years.

"Compared to other lake festivals in Indonesia, this one is the most consistent; it has been going on for 10 years consecutively. Reports from foreign media also mention this festival as the most attractive, original and unique," said Tourism Ministry's deputy assistant of government business development, Tasbir, during the festival's opening day in Kalkhote, Jayapura, Papua, on Monday.

Themed Cipta Harmoni Budaya (Creating a Harmonious Culture), this year's festival is slated to last until June 23 and will be joined by participants from 19 districts in Jayapura regency.

Read also: Samosir to host Tobatak Music Festival 2017

Meanwhile, Papuan Governor Lukas Enembe praised the lake as not only beautiful but also offering unique tourism potential. "The locals could build cottages in the hills surrounding the lake where tourists could stay to enjoy its breathtaking nature."

The festival is set to feature various examples of local culture, such as boat attractions, traditional dances, including the Isosolo Dance that is performed on a boat, a culinary festival and an archipelago cultural performances presented by communities across Jayapura. (kes)
Geopolitics often unfolds slowly, based as it is on broad, impersonal forces that develop over long spans of time. There are periods, however, when these forces reach a critical stage, and a flurry of important events, seemingly unconnected, combine to quickly reshape the world or a region or a nation before settling back down. The Middle East is going through one of these periods right now.

The past week attests to its transformation. It started with Saudi Arabia, which a seven-nation group that cut diplomatic relations with Qatar over Qatars alleged support for terrorist groups and its willingness to work with Iran. The next day, the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces began their offensive to gain control of Raqqa from the Islamic State. Then, just 48 hours after the Qatar row erupted, the Islamic State attacked Iran  the first time it has ever done so  hitting the parliament building and the mausoleum of Irans founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Hours later, the Kurdistan Regional Government in northern Iraq announced that it would hold an independence referendum on Sept. 25.

These events may have happened independently of each other, but together they represent a powerful shift. Qatars willingness to rebuke Saudi Arabia shows that Iran is growing stronger or that Saudi Arabia growing weaker  or both. Turkey, meanwhile, sees this as an opportunity to support Qatar and position itself as the regions leader. The Islamic State is going back to its roots as a highly effective insurgent organization as it loses territory in Iraq and Syria. And the Iraqi Kurds seem closer than ever to officially breaking apart Iraq. Simply put, the powers of the Middle East are realigning.

Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani gives a press conference in Doha, on June 8, 2017. Qatars foreign minister rejected attempts to interfere in the countrys foreign policy and said a military solution to the countrys crisis with its Gulf neighbors was not an option. KARIM JAAFAR/AFP/Getty Images Volatility Spreads to the Gulf Arab states in the Persian Gulf have remained relatively stable, thanks to their oil wealth and small populations. But that is no longer the case. The drama with Qatar rightly made headlines this week, but it is indicative of a deeper problem. The Gulf Arab states are at odds over how to manage radical Sunni groups and Iran and its Shia proxies. Oman, a non-Sunni state, has always been the outlier in the bloc and has had the closest ties to Iran. Kuwait, while close to the Saudis, has managed to stay neutral on various issues and is currently acting as a mediator in the Qatar dispute. Bahrain, a majority Shiite nation with a Sunni-controlled regime, is completely dependent on the Saudis. That leaves the United Arab Emirates as the Saudis only other real partner.

The Arabian Peninsulas relative calm is at risk, and Saudi Arabia was trying to prevent any further divisions by launching a diplomatic campaign against Qatar. Its a risky maneuver, but it could pay off if it brings Qatar back into the fold and demonstrates how powerful a Sunni bloc of countries can be with Saudi Arabia at the helm. It could also backfire if Qatar remains defiant in front of the rest of Arab Gulf states. The Islamic State Loses Ground The Islamic State has been the center of the gravity in the Middle East for years.



But over the past year, it has been losing strategic territory in Iraq and Syria and now appears to be losing hold of its capital, Raqqa.

The loss of this territory will be a major blow. It knew that it would be unable to sustain its caliphate in the short term, but with the bigger picture in mind, the Islamic State will go back to its roots as an insurgent group carrying out terrorist and guerrilla attacks from ungoverned spaces in the Syrian and Iraqi deserts. The underlying social, political and economic conditions that allowed IS to emerge in the first place, meanwhile will remain in place even if Raqqa falls, and if IS doesnt exploit them, another group will.

As the Islamic State weakens on the battlefield, so too will the shared cause of those fighting the group. They will now fight among themselves as IS focuses on exploiting regional divisions, especially the conflict between Sunni and Shiite forces, to further weaken the Sunni Arab leadership. Threats Emerge in Iran On June 7, 12 people were killed and many more were injured in two attacks by six assailants with high power assault rifles and suicide vests. The Islamic State claimed responsibility, and the fact that it could carry out such attacks indicates that IS likely had been operating in Iran for a while.

IS pulled off these attacks at an opportune time, just three weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump visited Saudi Arabia and identified Iran as the main threat to the region. Around the same time, the Saudi king ruled out any dialogue with Iran and said that the struggle against Iran has to take place on Iranian soil. There have also been major crackdowns on Shiites in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

From Irans point of view, the Saudis actually benefit from the Islamic State, which helps counter Iran and its Shiite allies in the region. Whether this is actually the case is immaterial. The Islamic State would like Iran to believe that this were so because it could lead to a confrontation between Tehran and Riyadh. Recent statements from Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps accusing Saudi Arabia of being behind the June 7 attacks would likely be welcomed by the Islamic State.

Iranian intelligence will try to neutralize IS elements in the country, though the Quds Force, a special unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responsible for overseas operations, may go further and try to retaliate against the Saudis for the attacks. Either way, these attacks to have aggravated tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia, and the Islamic State will do all it can to aggravate them more. Independent Kurdistans? Kurdish groups, meanwhile, are taking advantage of the regions blurred borders to create new ones of their own. The Syrian Kurds primary motivation in fighting the Islamic State is to secure land and U.S. support for an autonomous, if not independent, Syrian Kurdish state. Their distant cousins in Iraq are also pursuing sovereignty, threatening to break apart the Iraqi experiment once and for all.

Following the 2003 Iraq war, the government in Baghdad recognized an autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraqs three northernmost provinces. Over time, the Iraqi Kurds expanded their influence south to include large parts of three additional Iraqi provinces where they have territorial disputes with Iraqi Sunnis. The Shiite-dominated government, however, has long opposed greater autonomy for the KRG. The rise of the Islamic State in 2014, and particularly its capture of Mosul, actually helped the Iraqi Kurds because it weakened Baghdad and forced it to cooperate with the KRG to fight back IS in Sunni areas.

Emboldened by its progress, the KRG announced June 7 that it will hold an independence referendum on Sept. 25. Beyond this vote, the KRGs path to independence remains unclear. Much depends on how the Turks and Iranians respond. Turkey: Still on the Sidelines Turkey, meanwhile, is watching all of this carefully. It opposes Kurdish independence, and its goals in Syria conflict with almost every other power in the region. Even so, beyond funding some proxy groups in Syria and creating a small corridor in the northern part of the country, it has stayed out of the fray. It prefers to let the Arabs fight among themselves until they are so weak that Turkish power becomes impossible to resist. Turkey is also dealing with domestic issues that prevent it from projecting power too far abroad.

The Qatar dispute, however, presented Turkey with an opportunity that it couldnt pass up. Turkey is an ally of Qatar; they have a relationship the Saudis and other Arab states deeply resent. But they also need Turkey to counter Iran. The Arabs will have to accept Turkish influence as a balance to Iranian influence. Turkey is trying to act as a mediator in the crisis between the Gulf states, which could become a stepping stone for a wider Turkish role in Arab affairs. And to really demonstrate how much Turkish power has expanded, the Turkish parliament fast-tracked passage of a bill on June 7 to station 3,000 troops in Qatar.

To deal with the multiple challenges emanating from Syria, Turkey needs to position itself as the regions leader. One tactic it is using is to support Sunni Islamists of the Muslim Brotherhood that are loyal to Turkey and therefore will support Turkish interests. The problem is that Saudi Arabia and Egypt do not want to Turkey to be a leader. Iran may be the immediate threat, but Turkey as a hegemon is an equal if not greater threat in the long-term.

Its has been a heady week in the Middle East, full of important developments that are reshaping the geopolitics of the region. This will eventually calm down into a new normal as some of these issues lay dormant  but they are not going away, and there are more significant episodes than these to come.
After a controversy erupted around artist David Choes past statements regarding sexual assault, his Bowery mural has been painted over. Choe has come out with a letter of apology and Jessica Goldman Srebnick, representing the landlord, chimes in, as well. [EV Grieve]

The mayor is coming to the Lower East Side for a town hall meeting this week. Heres a look at how he prepares to face questions from locals at these types of events. [WNYC]

The Post catches up to a story we reported May 30, the citys decision to allow the luxury developers of Rivington House to do some exploratory work. Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer has written a letter to the Department of Buildings that says, I am perplexed as to why my office did not receive direct notice from DOB regarding the change to the Stop Work Order on this property. [New York Post]

Five years after it was enacted, there are different opinions about an Upper West Side zoning ordinance meant to curtail big box stores. Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, the architect of the initiative, said shes encouraged enough about the results to advocate for similar plans in the East Village. [AMNY]

Jeremiah Moss, the anonymous local blogger, is unmasking himself so he can more effectively advocate for mom-and-pop businesses. [The New Yorker]

Scenes from the Egg Rolls, Egg Creams and Empanadas Festival on Eldridge Street. [NY1]

Adam Platt enjoyed Hanoi House, the homey, inventive Vietnamese restaurant on St. Marks Place. [New York Magazine]
Unsure what to do this summer? Have no fear because The Jockey Club Live and Carlisle Racecourse have you sorted.

The Jockey Club Live and Carlisle Racecourse have come together to organise a perfect outing for all the family on Saturday 8th July. In the day horse races will offer delight to all, as powerful equine athletes race down the track for glory. In the evening pop sensation Jess Glynne will head a not-to-be-missed concert in which she is sure to blow her fans away.

To top it off this fantastic event is being held at Carlisle Racecourse, which boasts world-class customer facilities, featuring a selection of award-winning restaurants that cater for all tastes.

Jess Glynne shot to fame in 2014 when she provided the lead vocals to Clean Bandits Grammy Award winning and #1 hit Rather Be'.

Since then her star has been burning bright, as she became the second female artist in UK history to have five consecutive UK number one singles.

Glynnes talent is clear for all to see, having completed a sold out UK tour last year and receiving nominations for multiple prestigious music awards at this years Brit awards. These include British Breakthrough Act, British Female Solo Artist and British Single for Hold My Hand.

Carlisle Racecourse seem very excited to host Glynne, with Geraldine McKay, General Manager at Carlisle Racecourse, stating To attract and secure such a major artist is absolutely fantastic and we are very proud to be working with Jess Glynne for 2017. Given the great catalogue of music and her amazing live performances to date, I am sure this will be one of the best shows we have seen at Carlisle Racecourse".

Carlisle Racecourse is a member of The Jockey Club, a select group of racecourses that offer a first class experience for all. Priding themselves on previous successful race day concerts, including those hosted at Sandown Park Racecourse and Wincanton Racecourse, this event at Carlisle seems sure to be another success.

Pair such a skilled performer with a venue like Carlisle Racecourse and you have an event not to be missed! So get your tickets while you can and enjoy a fantastic summers day with family and friends.

Tickets are on sale at http://www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk, costing 28 for adults and 15 for under 18s.
Every year, thousands of people from across the UK come together to celebrate Refugee Week  but what is it, and how do you get involved?

Heres everything you need to know about the weeks festivities and why its important.

What is Refugee Week?

Refugee Week started in 1998 as a reaction to growing hostility towards refugees and asylum seekers.

Seven days of festivities and activities, centred around World Refugee Day on June 20, are designed to encourage positive encounters between refugees and the general public, in an effort to promote greater understanding between either side.

The events also offer a chance to showcase the talent and expertise of those who have claimed asylum, and raise awareness of the realities of life in the UK as a foreign national.

What kind of events take place?

A Suandese woman during Refugee Week Scotland in 2007 (Danny Lawson/PA)

Everything from art exhibitions, music concerts, films, discussion panels, puppet shows and lectures will be on offer, many of which are organised by refugees.

This year, photography exhibitions such as A Perilous Journey: Stories of Migration at Londons Brunei Gallery, and screenings of Johanna Schwartzs They Will Have To Kill Us First, promise to be stand-out events.

How can I get involved?

Members of Sudanese community during a day of multi-cultural festivities during Refugee Week Scotland in 2007 (Danny Lawson/PA)

events page Taking part is easy: you can search for events taking place near you on the charitys, or even submit an idea for an event of your own.

donate But even if the week threatens to pass you by due to a lack of time, you can stillto one of the many events taking place throughout the year.

What kind of impact does it have?

Last year, over 600 activities took place across the UK, reaching an audience of 135,300 people.

It has also expanded in recent years to include countries such as Australia and France, where events were organised in Paris, Lille and Lyon.

Now in its 19th year, it has become the UKs biggest festival and its organisers are hopeful it will continue to grow further still.
(Jonathan Brady/PA)

(Paul Cooke)

(Paul Cooke)

(Franziska Tometschek)

(Paul Cooke)

A spokesman for the victims, volunteers and community leaders from the Grenfell Tower disaster (Jonathan Brady/PA)

May leaves the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London after visiting people who were injured in the fire (Helen Williams/PA)

The hashtag #MayMustGo became the top trending topic on Twitter, as Theresa May was singled out for intense criticism. It came as the Prime Minister met victims of the blaze at Downing Street, and said afterwards the support on the ground for families who needed help or basic information in the initial hours after this appalling disaster was not good enough.David, from London, took to Downing Street with a placard proclaiming this as our summer of discontent. He said: The effects of austerity have had far-reaching and devastating consequences, and thats before you even get to a heartbreaking, catastrophic event like Grenfell Tower. Just as she is exercising her democratic right to form a minority government, so I am exercising my democratic right to protest against her attempt to scrape together enough votes to get her Queens Speech through and to try and keep the Conservatives in power.Davids sign was a play on the opening of Shakespeares Richard III, something he said was relevant due to the plot covering a rise to power and its accompanying short reign. After Grenfell and the election result, there is a definite change in the air. Theresa and her party are in trouble. I sense a total summer of discontent and protests ahead. The 36-year-old, who said he hasnt protested in a while but enough is enough, added: I am sure there are many more protests to come this summer.Masters student and freelance writer Franziska Tometschek also attended the protest, and said that as a woman and a queer person Mays potential deal with the DUP was frightening. I went to protest against May because the cuts she and her party have made and are making are costing peoples lives. I think its despicable that shes desperately clinging on to power and wants to form a coalition with the DUP, which I find terrifying as a woman and queer person. But that wasnt the 22-year-olds only reason for joining the protests. I also think its important to turn up to these protests to give each other hope and solidarity and show each other that while the Tories dont care for us we care for each other.Paul Cooke also attended the protest out of concern for any potential deal between the Tories and the DUP. He said: I dont believe we should be led by a leader and party that will sacrifice moral standards just to stay in power. Protesting isnt something hes done before but the current state of things meant I couldnt sit and watch, he said.Protests took place across London, including in Kensington, where friends and families of the Grenfell Tower victims told of their frustration. Mirna Suleiman, 26, a family friend of the first named victim Mohammad Alhajali, said there appeared to be no centralised list of those missing, and that they were forced to continually visit or call the various rescue centres and hospitals that were dealing with those affected. I spoke to the casualty helpline and they didnt have any information they didnt offer any help. I was expecting to hear lists of missing people, lists of people who had died, passed away. (But there was) nothing, they werent collating these numbers.A bishop who sat with residents affected by the atrocity said they were passionate and angry during a lengthy exchange with the Prime Minister at Downing Street. Sixteen very ordinary people sat in Downing Street to bring their concerns to Theresa May in an unprecedented meeting and finally felt they were listened to, the Bishop of Kensington, Dr Graham Tomlin said. He is hopeful the two-and-a-half hour meeting, attended by victims, residents, community leaders and volunteers, was the starting point for a process of lasting change. Following the meeting May said she has ordered daily progress reports on housing for those affected, and vowed the public inquiry into the disaster will be open and transparent.The Prime Minister said: There have been huge frustrations that people do not know who to talk to, that they cant get through on the council hotlines. I have ordered that more staff be deployed across the area, wearing high visibility clothing, so they can easily be found, dispense advice and ensure the right support is provided. Phone lines will have more staff. Victims have concerns their voice will not be heard, that their many questions about this tragedy will not be answered. That is why I ordered a public inquiry, with the costs for providing victims with legal representation met by Government. The inquiry will be open and transparent. Government and ministers will cooperate fully. I anticipate the name of the judge will be announced within the next few days and that an open meeting will be held with residents to help shape the terms of reference. It has been decided today that the public inquiry will report back to me personally. As Prime Minister, I will be responsible for implementing its findings.May said councils have been told to complete urgent safety checks on all high rise buildings, and further action will be taken if needed. She added: I can also announce that NHS London will provide specialist long-term bereavement support for the families who have lost loved ones, and immediate psychological support is being provided by Cruise and Red Cross. May said the Grenfell Tower blaze was an unimaginable tragedy for the community, and for our country. She said: My Government will do whatever it takes to help those affected, get justice and keep our people safe.
You might have seen comments swirling on social media that the Government has issued a D-Notice stopping the media from reporting details of the Grenfell Tower fire.

This isnt true, so heres everything you need to know about a D-Notice, so you can be on high alert for fake news.

What is a D-Notice?

(Matt Dunham/AP)

A D-Notice (also known as a DSMA-Notice or Defence and Security Media Advisory Notice) is an official request for news editors not to publish certain details of a story for reasons of national security.

D-Notices are issued by the Defence, Press and Broadcasting Advisory Committee, not, as some have claimed, the Home Office. The DPBAC is an independent body that is funded by and housed within the Ministry of Defence, but separate from the government.

D-Notices are voluntary for the media but aim to protect national security. Those responsible for issuing D-Notices say that any threat to national security must involve grave danger to the State and/or individuals.

Who are saying there is a D-Notice?

Have contacted Home Office around potential D-notice re #GrenfellTower  imperative that public knows.  Aaron Bastani (@AaronBastani) June 16, 2017

The rumour has circulated across various social media sites and blogs such as Skwawkbox.

Skwawkbox claims multiple sources told it that the Government placed a D-notice on the real number of deaths in the incident.

It also claims to have called the Home Office press office to ask if it was true and didnt receive a clear yes or no answer, and the blogs email to the Home Office was not answered.

Why has this rumour started?

(Matt Dunham/AP)

The rumours probably stem from the fact that the numbers of casualties have been released very slowly.

Police have said that at least 79 people died in the fire. However, many more are believed to be unaccounted for, while some are speculating the numbers could be much higher.

Metropolitan Police commander Stuart Cundy said he expected the death toll to rise further. However, it will take time for the number to be officially confirmed as the building is in a hazardous state and finding and identifying victims will likely be a slow process. In the meantime, the media is generally choosing not to speculate about numbers.

They were also likely fuelled by high-profile people claiming that the death toll is much higher than the public has been told. Skwawkbox mentions Grime artist Saskilla, who told the BBC that a firefighter had told him that 200 bodies had been identified. Lily Allen also told Channel 4 News that the death count has been downplayed by the mainstream media.

So is there a D-Notice relating to Grenfell Tower?

(Alastair Grant/AP)
This episode sees Versailles play host to broken lovers, as past relationships play a key role in the episode and the winners and losers of these pairings become abundantly clear.

Madame de Montespan (Anna Brewster) continues to slip from grace in this episode, turning to dark magic in a desperate attempt to woe Louis (George Blagden) back into her arms.

Though there have been dark and disturbing episodes in the last two seasons of Versailles, this one by far takes the cake. The focus is largely on Madame de Montespan, who turns to Father Etienne (Ned Dennehy) and his evil practices, including the bleeding of children, to secure Louis' affection once more. Apparently devoid of morals or boundaries, she will go as far as necessary, even to the edge of hell, to claw back her lover and the power he brought with him.

In stark contrast, Louis is happier and more fulfilled than audiences have seen him in weeks. Close to reaching his goals and now aware of the enemy within his house, he seems far more in control - happy to bide his time and wait until the moment is right to strike those who would harm him.

However, his new path is not entirely joyous, as he is seemingly punished by God despite his return to the faith. New circumstances arise to complicate his war against Holland and challenge his will and dedication to Christianity. Desperately turning to God, Louis remains on the backfoot, troubled with retreating soldiers and new scandal to blacken his country's name.

Similarly, Philippe (Alexander Vlahos) seems to be in a better situation than in previous episodes, as audiences witness him find joy in his life and family, and purpose in his oversight of Thomas Beaumont (Mark Rendall). Poor Chevalier (Evan Williams), unaware of the ruse that leads Philippe into the arms of Beaumont, must watch from the sidelines heartbroken and seemingly abandoned.

While this is difficult to watch - as the Chevalier, usually so calm and controlled, is utterly heartbroken - it is a fantastic example of Evan Williams' skill as an actor. Offering a compelling performance, Williams makes every viewer, be they fans of the character or not, feel deep sympathy and pain, as they witness the Chevaliers insecurities and vulnerabilities become impossible to hide. In their wake is left a man broken and alone, unsure of how to continue without the love and loyalty of the man he loves most.

In the palace of Versailles, joy does not last long and unforeseen circumstances soon rob Philippe of his happiness, leaving his marriage in trouble and Louis short of another ally. A heartbroken Princess (Jessica Clark) must find her place once more in the court of a king - now her familys enemy - and a country filled with brutes like those who destroyed her homeland.

Meanwhile Marchal (Tygh Runyan) continues his investigation into Father Etienne and the poisons which have caused numerous deaths inside the palace. Stumbling across the skeletons of newborn babies, he begins to realise the scale of horror and deceit tied up in these evil doings and determinedly sets to bring the sinners to justice. Unaware of how Madame de Montespan ties into these crimes, audiences will have to wait to see if Marchals punishment of these traitors extends to her, or if her previous ties with the king will save her yet again.

As this season of Versailles comes towards its conclusion, the tension and pace of the episodes increase, becoming almost unbearable as audiences finally come so close to the answers they have been missing. The show plays with our frayed nerves and thinning patience as we creep ever closer to these mysterious secrets and answers, toying without us until we can take no more. Always keeping this balance, it succeeds in keeping viewers invested in the show and focused until the very end.

While all the actors are skilled, offering impressive performances each week, George Blagden (Louis) and Evan Williams (The Chevalier) give especially powerful performances this week. Both portray their rage and fear in a compelling and emotive way, garnering the support and sympathy of viewers as they do. Through this, they undo any previous damage caused by their flaws and instead become two of the most likeable and sympathetic characters in the whole show.

Versailles airs on Fridays at 9.30pm on BBC Two.
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A Bozeman man charged last fall with trespassing on what the Forest Service has claimed is a public trail accessing the Crazy Mountains has settled out of court.

Rob Gregoires trial was scheduled for Thursday in Sweet Grass County municipal court in Big Timber, but instead he agreed to a deferred prosecution on the condition that he make a $500 donation to the Sweet Grass Foundation, not go on the property again and not get into any legal trouble for the next year, he said.

It was about where my time and money was best spent, Gregoire said of the settlement. Getting a not guilty verdict doesnt answer that (public access) question.

If convicted, Gregoire would have faced a $585 fine, as well as higher legal fees.

Withdrawal

After initially planning to fight the charge and receiving contributions for his legal bill from fellow public access advocates, Gregoire said his lawyer told him that even if he were to win and be found not guilty, it wouldnt settle the access dispute. That needs to go through civil court, he said, a case that could cost $100,000 or more.

Money donated to Gregoires legal fund will be transferred to any civil case, should someone decide to take up the cause, he said. The natural choice would be the Public Land/Water Access Association, a small group that has taken on other landowners over such closures, as well as defended the states stream access law.

But the groups new president, Bernard Lea, said PLWAAs membership needed to consult with Gregoire and the Forest Service before taking on any new cases.

The trail

At issue is Trail 115/136 that Custer Gallatin National Forest officials have claimed is a route long used by its rangers to patrol the island mountain range, its timber sales and grazing allotments. Forest officials point to old agency maps showing the route dating back more than a century. The trail wanders through the edge of the Hailstone Ranch, along Big Timber Creek, before gaining elevation and entering forest property.

Gregoire said his search through records to bolster his case turned up accounts of Forest Service maintenance of the trail in 1988. He said he even talked with a former agency employee who worked on the trail. One entry in a Forest Service log book that Gregoire acquired noted that a sign marking the trail had been torn down and said it may be futile to put up a new one since the nearby landowner would likely remove that one as well.

Despite such evidence, Gregoire couldnt count on any Forest Service official to testify in the case. That requires approval from the Department of Justice, which was unwilling to grant clearance.

USFS stance

Yet Yellowstone District Ranger Alex Sienkiewicz helped clear and mark the route last year. Sienkiewicz referred the Gazette to other forest officials at the agencys Bozeman headquarters for comment, but they declined to discuss the issue.

Other public trails in Montana pass through private land before reaching public property, with signs stating that users must stay on the trail through the private land. Access is guaranteed through whats known as a prescriptive easement, which comes through regular use of a route.

An attorney for Lee and Barbara Langhus, owners of the Hailstone Ranch, said in a 2016 letter to the Forest Service that it is up to the public to prove that a prescriptive easement exists. Livingston attorney Joe Swindlehurst, who represents the Langhuses, wrote that: If the Forest Service or the public thinks there is a prescriptive easement across the land, then it is up to them to prove it.

This should be between the landowner and the Forest Service, Gregoire said.

But he added that he and other public land access advocates would be willing to push the issue if the landowner and Forest Service cant work out a deal. The Langhuses had indicated they might be open to a land trade with the Forest Service.

Access to public lands has become a hot-button issue across Montana in the past decade, often pitting landowners  some of whom have agreements with outfitters for exclusive hunting rights  against public hunters and anglers. The disputes have become more common in the past two decades as many ranches are sold to new owners who possess different values and desires. One of the big selling points for many large parcels is exclusive access to federal land as well as healthy big game populations for hunting.

Lots of elk

Part of the reason access to this area has become high profile in recent years is that a large elk herd has taken up residence along the eastern face of the Crazy Mountains. Without public access to hunt the landlocked animals the herd has grown to more than 2,000  about 200 percent over state population objectives, according to a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks 2016 assessment. The population objective for Hunting District 580 is 500 to 1,000 elk.

The hunting district is one of only three in the entire state where elk populations have so greatly outpaced objectives. The other two hunting districts, 411 and 530, contain large parcels of land owned by Texas billionaire brothers Dan and Farris Wilks, who allow limited public hunting on their property. Montana contains 65 elk hunting districts.

Ancient history

While most mountain ranges in Montana are federally owned, the Crazies are a patchwork of private and Custer Gallatin National Forest lands intermixed. More than 8,000 acres of forest land in the Crazy Mountains is only accessible by crossing at the corners where parcels meet, the legality of which has yet to be tested in court.

The private inholdings are remnants of the 50,000 acres in the Crazies given to the Northern Pacific Railroad by the U.S. government in the 1860s as payment for building the transcontinental rail line. In the 1890s the railroad began selling the lands to individuals, among them were the Langhuses ancestors.

PLWAA has shown  and they have to be a big part of this  that there are people out there who dont want to lose access, Gregoire said.

Despite that, Gregoire added that hed just as soon put the whole issue behind him and focus on fishing and hunting from now on.
'That's madam governor to you': Record 12 women elected to serve in 2023
MISSOULA  Former University of Montana president Royce Engstrom will teach chemistry as a full professor at UM for a salary of $119,106.

University Relations made the announcement late last week in a news release that noted Engstrom most recently taught in 2007 as provost at the University of South Dakota before he took a job as provost and vice president for academic affairs at UM.

"I am really enjoying reading chemistry again and preparing materials for my classes," Engstrom said in a statement.

Engstrom also will teach in the Davidson Honors College, according to UM.

UM's Human Resource Services does not have a contract on file for Engstrom, but associate vice president Terri Phillips said the document is not necessary until middle to late July.

Engstrom left his post as president in December 2016 at the request of Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian, and a recruitment is underway for a permanent president. The president's departure came after years of declining enrollment and ensuing and lingering budget trouble at UM.

To try to shore up its finances, UM is in the midst of trying to reduce its number of faculty members. The campus is in the midst of a second round of early retirement buyout offers with the goal of saving $4 million a year by the 2019 fiscal year.

UM has made offers to nearly 100 employees in all. So far, 12 to 14 faculty members expressed interest in the first round of offers, according to UM; last week, UM made a second round of offers to some 50 employees.

A rough estimate of the average salary of the first 48 people offered buyouts is some $83,000.

Kevin McRae, deputy commissioner for communications in the Montana Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education, said Engstrom is protected by tenure and the faculty union. He said administrators who cease to hold their positions but have tenure still have the right to an offer of a contract.

"Royce is a tenured full professor in the chemistry department," McRae said.

Engstrom will become the third-highest-paid faculty member among 10 in the chemistry department, McRae said. He said the average salary among the nine faculty members who were already teaching is $109,160, and he noted the following pay information in the department as well:

The highest salary is $137,000

The other two highest were $135,000 and $117,000

McRae said he and Phillips reviewed other compensation in the department and Engstrom's seniority level in order to determine his salary as a teacher. He said Engstrom has substantial teaching experience in South Dakota and also has served as a tenured dean and provost.

According to UM, Engstrom has 20 years of teaching experience and served 28 years at the University of South Dakota. His positions included assistant professor, chair of the chemistry department, graduate school dean, vice president for research, and provost.

In September 2016, the Montana Board of Regents approved compensation for administrators including a base salary of $309,207 and a $9,600 stipend for Engstrom in his capacity as president.

Since he left his post at the helm of the university, Engstrom gave the commencement address at the University of South Dakota in May, and he has been conducting accreditation visits "at various universities," according to UM. He completes a term this month as a commissioner of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and serves on the board of the Association of American Colleges and Universities.

The chemistry department is part of the College of Humanities and Sciences. Dean Chris Comer was out of the country Monday and unavailable for comment, according to a receptionist; associate dean Jenny McNulty could not be reached via a voicemail the same afternoon.
It's our annual Labour Weekend tradition ...The Sound 'Hall Of Fame' Countdown... Where we honor the greatest 500 songs of all time as voted by you.
MISSOULA  More than 50 people were injured after a second-story deck collapsed Saturday at the Glacier Camp on Flathead Lake, according to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

A 10-foot-high section of the deck buckled after a memorial service held in the camps lodge. KRMC Public Information Officer Allison Meilicke said patients were taken to at least five area hospitals.

Two KRMC patients remain in critical condition, she said, and one was transferred to a hospital in Seattle.

Our operating room was busy all night, she said.

Other patients went to North Valley Hospital, St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson, St. Luke Community Hospital and St. Patrick Hospital.

Lake County Sheriff Don Bell wouldnt speculate about how the collapse occurred, saying the camps insurance company will likely look into the incident.

It was not a crime, so we wont be investigating it, Bell said. Itll be handled between the property owner and the people who got injured yesterday.

Whatever made the deck fail will be determined  by the insurance investigator.

Emergency personnel from Missoula to Kalispell helped at the camp, which is just south of Lakeside on Presbyterian Camp Road. The closest city with a hospital is Polson, more than 30 miles away.

Most of the injured were taken in ambulances or transported by helicopters, while 10-15 people went on their own Saturday, Bell said. More could have gone to the hospital on their own overnight and today. he added.

Three helicopters, including KRMCs ALERT air ambulance, were used to transport the injured.

You have two ambulances in town, but when you have 20-plus people hurt ..., Bell said, explaining the importance of mutual aid.

One of the first responders was the Lakeside/Somers Fire Department, Chief Tom Havens said.

The call came in around 4 p.m., saying a deck had collapsed and at least 30 people were injured.

We called resources, all we could get, Havens said.

By the time Havens arrived, he said the scene wasnt as calamitous as expected; he saw people of all ages, from three years old to ages 80 to 90 helping each other.

Most of the injuries seemed to be broken bones, along with scrapes and bruises, Havens said.

There wasnt a whole bunch of hollering or anything, he said.

The Lakeside/Somers Fire Department is reporting the incident and their actions to the insurance company, according to Havens.

Glacier Camp released a statement Saturday evening, which is posted on its website: This afternoon, we had a major accident at camp. Please join us in praying for the injured and their families. We are grateful to all of the EMTs/Paramedics, fire departments and first responders who came to our aid. We ask for your prayers for all involved. We will not have camp in session this week.

Two camps were scheduled the week of June 18, according to Glacier's website: a junior high camp and a horse riding camp.

Glacier Camp, according to its website, is owned by Glacier Presbytery. It was established in 1931 on the western shore of Flathead Lake and, in addition to religious camps and retreats, offers wedding, event and meeting spaces.
In our work with the Montana Food Bank Network, we have the privilege of working with nearly 150 food pantries and other partner agencies throughout the state. We see firsthand the important role that donated food plays in keeping tens of thousands of Montanans from going hungry. We are constantly reminded how important a can of soup, a carton of milk, or a box of cereal can be to those who have fallen on hard times. We are humbled by the important work done every day by our network of partners.

However, we also understand that Montanas charitable food system cannot meet the need by itself  nor is it intended to. SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is our states most important anti-hunger program. SNAP helps 120,000 Montanans put food on the table every month. Almost 70 percent of participants are in families with children, 30 percent are in households with seniors or individuals with disabilities, and 41 percent are in working households.

We hear frequently from people like Karen, who is working hard to provide for her son but struggling to make ends meet. Karen works for the school, which means she loses her main source of income when school is out. Over the summer, Karen utilizes SNAP to make sure that her son has the food he needs to grow, learn, and thrive. Karen shares that The impact of SNAP is huge, but it isnt easy to ask for help. Being on SNAP and coming to the pantry are two of the hardest things Ive ever had to do. But I wont let my son go without.

The benefits of SNAP reach far beyond Karens family and other participants to also support our local economy. Montana businesses, from grocery stores to farmers, see over $170 million pumped into our economy every year thanks to SNAP, creating jobs and opportunity for our neighbors.

As Congress works to draft the federal budget, we hope that Senator Tester, Senator Daines, and Representative Gianforte understand how important SNAP is to our communities and our state. President Trumps budget, released in late May, proposes cutting $193 billion (more than 25 percent) from SNAP over the next 10 years. Cuts of this magnitude would be devastating, leaving a gap that our charitable food system could not begin to fill. As Congress moves forward, we call on each of our Congressional members to reject any budget that includes deep cuts or structural changes to SNAP.

We are proud of the role that food pantries play when Montanans hit hard times. Together with SNAP and our other anti-hunger programs, we have helped to provide food to our neighbors when they need it most. Cuts to SNAP would reverse the progress we have made, leaving more children, seniors, veterans, low-wage workers, individuals with disabilities, and many other Montanans hungry. Please urge Montanas Congressional members to take a stand for their constituents by protecting SNAP and other poverty-reduction programs from cuts or structural changes in the federal budget.

Gayle Carlson, CEO, Montana Food Bank Network

Luke Jackson, MFBN Board Chair, Missoula

Minkie Medora, MFBN Board Member, Missoula

Tracy Worley, MFBN Board Member, Missoula

Paul Miller, MFBN Board Member, Missoula

Carol Allen, MFBN Board Member, Missoula

Mark Dvarishkis, MFBN Board Member, Missoula

Ross Tillman, Former MFBN Board Chair, Missoula

Mary Lehman, MFBN Board Member, Great Falls

Hank Hudson, MFBN Board Member, Helena
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday welcomed the BJP's decision to name Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA candidate for the Presidential election, terming it a huge honour for the Dalit community.

Adityanath said that by selecting Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah had also honoured the 22 crore people of Uttar Pradesh.

"This is a huge honour for the Dalit community and the people of Uttar Pradesh," Adityanath told the media at his official residence here and appealed to the leaders of all political parties to support Kovind's candidature.

"It is a matter of great pleasure for all of us that Ram Nath Kovind ji is our Presidential candidateI on behalf of the people of the state would like to felicitate Modi ji and Amit Shah for the selection," he said, adding Kovind is fit to be the next President
A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team on Monday questioned Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jains wife in connection with a money laundering case.

The CBI had initiated a preliminary inquiry against Satyendar Jain in April to probe the allegations of money laundering against him.

It is alleged that Jain was involved in laundering Rs. 4.63 crore while being a public servant in 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchand Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited.

According to reports, the CBI had questioned Jain on 1 June also.

The CBIs visit to Jains house comes days after Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodias statement was recorded by the agency over Talk to AK media campaign.

Jain, an MLA from Shakur Basti, had on 16 June said that they have done nothing wrong and he was ready to face any probe.

Will keep working for Delhis development without fear, the architect-turned-politician had tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will contact his West bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee to seek her Trinamool Congress's support for NDA's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind, TDP sources said.

After BJP finalised the candidature of Bihar Governor Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Naidu over phone and sought his Teluugu Desam Party's support, TDP sources said.

Naidu, whose party is a constituent of ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), welcomed the choice of a Dalit as the candidate and assured party's full support.

Modi also requested Naidu to approach Banerjee to get her party' support for NDA candidate. Naidu conveyed to the PM that he will contact her after her return from foreign tour.

Reacting to NDA's choice, Banerjee said he never heard of Kovind. She said she was surprised by the decision.

"I have not heard his name ever before. I do not know him. I could recognise him only after he was mentioned as the Bihar Governor. I can say that I am surprised by the decision," Banerjee said at Dubai en route the Netherlands to address a United Nations' event.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has requested Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu not to relocate residents of government colonies in Sarojini Nagar, at least till the current academic session is over, so that hundreds of students are not affected.

"The residents are being asked to vacate by September. It is the middle of the year. It is almost impossible to get admissions in schools in Delhi in the middle of the session. Kindly postpone the evacuation till the end of this academic session at least," Kejriwal wrote in a letter dated June 17.

According to residents of Sarojini Nagar, they have been asked by the Ministry of Urban Development to vacate their current accomodation, so that the government can redevelop the area by constructing twice the number of houses. The residents are to be relocated to government flats available in other parts of Delhi.

The Chief Minister said the relocation should be postponed till flats in Kidwai Nagar get ready, so that residents don't have to shift to far-off places.

"I will be personally obliged, if personal attention is given to this matter, which pertains to the genuine grievance of my constituency," he said in the letter.
The Netherlands, together with India, are looking for ways to turn sustainability related challenges into business opportunities.

This has led to the establishment of the Indo-Dutch Sustainability (INDUS) Forum. The Centre for Responsible Business (CRB) and the Dutch Embassy have taken a leading, partnering role in this. Till date, more than 500 INDUS partners ~ from India and the Netherlands ~ have shown interest in what the forum can offer. CRB's belief in multi-stakeholder initiatives for addressing multidimensional problems of sustainability is ingrained in the INDUS-Forum.

The slogan of the INDUS Forum: "Let's make all trade and investments between India and the Netherlands Sustainable" encapsulates the very essence of the forum. By starting with innovative pilots between Indian and Dutch companies, the INDUS Forum hopes to accelerate sustainability within the core business of all involved. Working for people, planet and profit is a key element of this approach.

The point is that sustainable solutions must make business sense; otherwise it will remain on the fringe of companies' strategies.

The new strategic partnership of the INDUS Forum with Dutch organisation MVO Nederland brings in fresh ideas and new focus. MVO Nederland works worldwide with a membership base of 2,300 Dutch companies, all of whom are interested in doing sustainable business worldwide, including in India. Most of those companies have an international orientation and are facing sustainability questions throughout their value chain and trade relations.

MVO Nederland works with international programmes and serves as a hands-on expert organisation, which is also funded by the Dutch government.

An example of their sustainability approach in Costa Rica concerns 'Topless Pineapples'. Dutch supermarkets traditionally sell pineapples with their crowns.

These crowns do not have any added value as they are only cosmetic. Without a top, 10 pineapples will fit in a box instead of just seven. A pineapple without a crown saves money during shipment, money which goes back to the farmer. In that same way, each pineapple will emit less CO2 emissions.

The crown, which can provide rich nutrients and biomass, stays back in the field. Dutch companies have offered several solutions to turn the crown (biomass) into energy and into vegetarian 'leather'. Through smart connections with Dutch and Costa Rican businesses, a sustainable solution with clear business benefits has sparked more sustainable business.

The INDUS network wants to be the platform for such innovative sustainable and inclusive business models, involving companies and practitioners from India and the Netherlands. "We should stop approaching each other as buyer or supplier in the supply chain; the time has come to co-create new business models together", an Indian textile-entrepreneur quoted in one of the preparatory sessions that led up to the next INDUS Forum event scheduled for 19 June 19 in New Delhi.

Already, the INDUS Forum is fulfilling its sustainable matchmaking potential, by connecting concrete opportunities in India and the Netherlands. The challenge is now to make clear choices and to connect the right persons.

A Dutch textile consortium, for example, is searching for spinning mill managements that understand circular business models. An Indian tyre producer is interested in partnering for recycled content in tyres.

Those are clear-cut demands which can be met by the market and by individual companies. Opportunities aplenty, the focus of the INDUS Forum going forward will be apparel/textile, agriculture/agro-business and food and the IT/services sector.

The next step is to introduce a platform on which a community of Indian and Dutch companies and practitioners would meet mutual 'demand' (sustainability challenges) with 'supply' (good practices) online.
They say Zambia is a country every human being on earth should visit at least once in a lifetime. It houses one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls.

The waterfall, locally known as Mosi-ou-tunya, meaning 'the smoke that thunders', has the world's largest curtain of falling water; because of the spray from the falls, the rainforest nearby is the only place on earth that receives rain 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

What do tourists do at the falls?

You can bungee jump or dive into the natural swimming pool, fondly known as the Devil's Pool. Also gaining global attention is the world's wildest white water rafting in the Zambezi River, amongst long and violent rapids created by millions of cubic metres of water thundering down the 100-metre Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls can simply be described as sacred, mysterious and beautiful.

That's not all. Zambia also houses Kalambo, which is Africa's second deepest falls. Kalambo is also a cultural site rich in archaeological bounties.

The country is blessed with the lion's share of water resources from across the whole of southern Africa. There are more than 10 waterfalls in Zambia, from the south to the north. This makes Zambia a tempting place to visit because of the large areas that are untouched by man; tourists can, hence, get a feel of what private tourist sites would feel like, including key assets such as pristine national parks and game management areas, which are home to a great diversity of wildlife and flora and fauna ~ simply heaven for any Nature lover.

Besides the above, Zambia is a favorite destination for adventures, indulgences and 'magical Zambian moments'.

The country boasts of unique and excellent water surfing opportunities, for all abilities, along with spectacular and breathtaking sunset views. For example, the white sand beaches in the Luapula Province offer a glimpse of the vibrant Zambian culture and serve as a secluded and romantic getaway. In terms of accessibility, getting to the Zambia nowadays is no longer an arduous task. From India, hop over to Dubai and connect directly to Zambia's capital Lusaka.

Nairobi to Lusaka is only two hours 46 minutes by air.

Harare to Lusaka is 30 minutes. Johannesburg to Lusaka is one hour 45 minutes. Addis Ababa to Lusaka is four hours nine minutes. Dar- es-salaam is two hours four minutes. Windhoek is two hours while Lubumbashi to Lusaka is exactly one hour.

While Zambia may be small in size, it is big in terms of products and sights it offers to discover. The country is the birthplace of the legendary walking safari.

It has several world class safari camps and lodges for walking safaris, offering expert advice, unbeatable quotes and efficient service delivery, full of warm receptions.

Zambia now has many specialists in mobile wilderness walking safaris in the Kafue, South and North Luangwa National Parks. In terms of safety of the tourists, for the thousands who do walking safaris every year, they know the risks, but, there is no better way of seeing the African bush as it is done in Zambia, where safety is 100 percent guaranteed.

Indian businessmen have an opportunity to partner with Zambian nationals in the redevelopment of the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, the development of an ultra modern multi- purpose conference facility in Livingstone, building more lodges in Kafue National Park to a count of over 250, and in Luangwa South which requires an additional 120 beds.

One would only conclude that Zambia is commonly regarded as one of the most beautiful, friendly, diverse and unspoilt countries on the entire African continent.

Diplomatic Editor Ashok Tuteja ([email protected])
Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray said a decision on supporting NDA Presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind would be taken after discussions with party leaders on Tuesday.

"We will not take any decision without discussions and announce it tomorrow (Tuesday)," Thackeray declared, addressing a rally of party workers to mark the 51st foundation day of Shiv Sena on Monday.

He added that if the next President proves to be beneficial for the country, "then make anybody. We will support".

However, he said the party would not tolerate if the candidature is intended for ensuring provision of Dalit votes, as the Shiv Sena keeps away from vote-bank politics.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned Iran not to threaten Israel after Tehran said it launched missiles at Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria.

"One message to Iran: Don't threaten Israel," Netanyahu said on Monday during a weekly meeting of his Likud faction.

Netanyahu, who has repeatedly claimed that Iran is threatening Israel, said Israel is following "their actions and we follow their words", Xinhua news agency reported.

"The military and our security forces are constantly monitoring the activity of Iran in the region," Netanyahu said, according to a statement released by the Likud.

"This activity also includes their attempts to establish themselves in Syria and, of course, to transfer advanced weapons to Hezbollah and other operations," he said.

Netanyahu has been a vocal opponent of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, charging that Tehran is aiming to achieve nuclear weapons.

Earlier on Monday, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced that the Sunday attack on the "terrorists" in Syria's eastern region of Deir ez-Zor had been coordinated with the Syrian government.

Gen. Ramezan Sharif, head of the IRGC Public Relations Department, told Tasnim news agency that the IRGC fired six mid-range ballistic missiles at multiple targets, within a range of 650 to 700 km.

He confirmed that the missiles hit the targets, which included the headquarters, ammunition and logistic depots of IS operatives, saying "a large number of terrorists" were killed.

The attack came in the wake of a twin attack carried out by IS on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the capital Tehran on June 7, killing 17 and injuring dozens others.
Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday said the suggestions of the opposition parties did play a role in the NDA picking Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as its presidential nominee.

"I hope they (opposition) would not have any reason to oppose the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind because of his background, non-controversial nature, and sound legal and social background.

"I only hope that the opposition parties will support Kovindji and join us in getting him elected unanimously as the President of India," he told reporters.

The three-member committee, formed by BJP chief Amit Shah to hold consultations with the political parties on the issue, conveyed its views based on the suggestions of the allies and opposition parties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shah, Naidu said, adding that they took these into account.

Besides Naidu, Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Arun Jaitley were the other members of the committee.

Naidu recalled that Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was unanimously elected as the president and there was an "understanding" among all the major parties when A P J Abdul Kalam was elected to the country's top constitutional post.

Despite a majority, the BJP reached out to all the political parties "in the spirit of democracy", the urban development minister said.

Before Kovind's name was announced, Modi had spoken to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, seeking their support to the NDA candidate for the presidential polls.

Naidu said the prime minister had also spoken to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, whose Telugu Desam Party is an ally of the BJP in the NDA, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao and some other leaders.
President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday said quality healthcare was a necessity for every individual and underlined the need to ensure better infrastructure in rural areas so that doctors serve there.

At the foundation of the Shambhu Shetty Memorial Haji Abdullah Super Speciality Hospital here, the President said quality healthcare was not a luxury but a necessity and noted that against the international norm of one doctor per thousand population, the country had one doctor for 1,700 people.

"The situation is more alarming in rural India where the shortage of surgeons is 83.4 per cent, obstetricians and gynaecologists 76.3 per cent, paediatrics 82.1 per cent and general physician 83 per cent at the level of the community health centres," he said.

"This is compounded by the fact that we educate and train about 50 per cent less doctors than our requirement stands at," he said, stressing that the shortage of doctors require immediate intervention and emphasised on more focus and investments in the field of preventive healthcare.

Mukherjee called for ample infrastructure at the district and other rural areas and to encourage doctors and practitioners to serve there.

The President also emphasised on the need to increase engagement of the corporate sector in public private partnership in the field of public health, especially in rural areas.

"Though advances in modern medicine and investment in health infrastructure have made many diseases like cholera, smallpox, plague and tuberculosis curable, there is a huge gap in our country for access to medicine and healthcare, which is skewed in terms of infrastructure and personnel," he said.

Asserting that only a healthy mind and healthy body can be the abode of God, the President said access to affordable healthcare should be the objective.

He also spoke against attacks by relatives on doctors, calling for cooperation between physicians, doctors, medical personalities and the patients, their friends and relatives.

"Sometimes we find that if a patient dies, the angry mob led by their relatives vandalise the hospital, beat the physician or surgeons. This is not good. No civilised society can tolerate it," he said.

"Yes, doctors can try, medicines can do wonders, but at the same time one has to keep it in mind that there would be deaths. This type of vandalism should be condemned."

Karnataka Health Minister Ramesh Kumar and Bengaluru Development Minister KJ George were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

Later, the President visited the famous Sri Krishna temple in this pilgrim town in coastal Dakshina Kannada district.

Ahead of the President's visit, shops around the temple and along the Car Street were shut by the district administration for security reasons.

Movement of hundreds of pilgrims and tourists were also restricted till Mukherjee left the temple complex.

He also visited Hindu goddess Mookambika's temple at Kollur and performed Sarvalanka puja there.
Montanans overwhelmingly support public lands that benefit our local communities and economies. President Trumps proposed budget guts local efforts to increase access to hunting, fishing and recreation on our public lands. The president would substantially cut funds for the Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act.

This program allows the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to sell scattered and isolated government lands to create more public access throughout our state. The funds from these sales allow the BLM to ask willing property owners to sell their properties within designated BLM lands or national forests, parks and wildlife refuges.

In Montana, the BLM worked with the Brown's Gulch property owners to provide access to Hauser Lake so the public would have more boating and recreation in the Helena area. These funds helped the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to preserve critical lands for trumpeter swans in the Centennial Valley south of Dillon.

U.S. Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines co-sponsored a bill to reauthorize this valuable program that keeps public lands open for our families to enjoy the outdoors. Contact Steve Daines at (202) 224-2651 and Jon Tester (202) 224-2644, and ask them to continue to support the Federal Land Transaction.

Lewis YellowRobe

Missoula
In fresh development to the case involving Sahara chief Subrata Roy and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the Supreme Court on Monday extended formers parole till 5 July and granted him 10 more working days to deposit Rs. 709.82 crore with the Sahara-SEBI refund account.

The top court had on 27 April extended Roy's parole till 19 June and warned him imprisoned if he failed to pay the amount.

In a written undertaking, Subrata Roy told the top court that he would pay Rs.1,500 crore in SEBI-Sahara account by 15 June and furnished a post-dated cheque for Rs.552 crore to be released by 15 July.

The Sahara group had submitted three cheques for Rs. 1,500 crore and the other two are of Rs. 500 crore and Rs. 3,000 crore.

As per reports, the apex court had on 17 April asked Bombay High Court's official liquidator to sell the Rs. 34,000 crore worth of properties of the Aamby Valley owned by the Sahara Group and directed its chief Roy to personally appear before it on 28 April.

The top court had on 6 April said if the Sahara Group failed to deposit Rs. 5,092.6 crore in SEBI-Sahara refund account by 17 April in pursuance of its order, it will be compelled to auction its property valued at Rs.39,000 crore at Aamby Valley in Pune.

Earlier, a special SEBI court had quashed a non-bailable warrant against Roy as he appeared before the court. The warrant was also quashed on grounds that Roy will appear in all hearings now as the court asked him to submit an undertaking for the same.
Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and BJP President Amit Shah met here, the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally  this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal.

"Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'.

Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but "some people" are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra.

"We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said.

"The BJP is standing solidly with 'anti-national elements', it is backing (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit.

The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers.

The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said.

About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI (of Pakistan) have already wrested control over the critical border state.

"These (BJP/Parivar) people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said.

The Sena's attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came barely 24 hours after Shah and Thackeray met in Mumbai for 75 minutes amid optimism of a thaw in the chilled relations between the two allies of nearly three decades.


Freed from Al Qaeda in 2001, the Tora Bora caves and the tunnels in Afghanistan have now fallen to violent extremists linked to the militant Islamic State (ISIS) group.

This strategic victory for the terrorist group came after the US dropped the so-called mother of all bombs in April on its hideouts, a network of tunnels in Afghanistan.

The ISIS march in Afghanistan has once again proved that finding new physical spaces is not a major issue for the terrorists; many conflict-ridden, ungoverned, and poorly administered territories are available  from the subSaharan region to the tribal areas in the Arabian Peninsula, from the bordering region between Afghanistan and Pakistan to the Philippines.

As the terrorists continue to mount threats to physical security, the response is also expected to remain focused on employing greater force.

This is also making it more challenging for Muslim power elites to take on the terrorists in their ideological and intellectual spaces.

The Trump administrations renewed focus on hard approaches to countering terrorism could provide these elites with more excuses to continue living in their mental comfort zones.

Ironically, the claimants of Muslims religious leadership, Saudi Arabia and Iran, are accusing each other of supporting terrorism. However, the Saudi and Iranian counterterrorism mantras and alliances are nothing more than efforts to secure their own petty political and strategic interests  at the cost of the lives of those these two countries claim to lead.

Their actions are not only bringing trouble to themselves but are also fuelling sectarian tensions in Muslim societies and polarising Muslim-majority nations by forcing them to choose sides.

This is an appalling situation, mainly for many Muslim states including Pakistan, which are struggling to adjust to the strategic and economic meltdown in the Middle East. The ISIS is a manifestation of the intellectual bankruptcy of the Muslim ruling elites. The real challenge thus is not the expansion of the group in physical spaces, but the mindset of the ruling elites and their partners, i.e. the clergy, which is scared of new ideas.

They dont realise that their traditionalism and orthodoxy are eroding their own foundations. The need to evolve intellectual responses for countering extremism notwithstanding, a review of collective wisdom and its expressions is also important, mainly to measure a nations level of resilience and maturity. Parliament is the true representative of the collective wisdom of Pakistanis.

It has recently suggested a neutral role for Pakistan in the Middle East crisis. Similar parliamentary advice came on the Yemen crisis.

The policymakers and media of both Saudi Arabia and UAE criticised this stance. A statement circulating on social media, attributed to a top Saudi official, that criticised Pakistani neutrality and parliament, should not be surprising because many believe that our Arab brothers are not interested in Pakistans democratic credentials, but in the countrys military power.

Let's not forget that when parliament took a neutral position on Yemen, the UAE tried to punish Pakistan through developing a strategic partnership with India, although it knew that India could not support their misadventure in Yemen. Many opinion makers in Arab countries also accused Pakistan for using parliament as an excuse to not send its troops for military adventures.

Though in that case parliament proved a blessing for the establishment, the maturity it has shown over the issue is commendable. However, the actual challenge for parliament is to build intellectual and policy capital.

One can debate the capacity of parliamentarians and the governments somewhat indifferent attitude towards parliament, but this is still the institution which is keeping the country cohesive.

This is the institution which should address the issue of extremism and the IS in our minds.

Parliament can take the lead in nurturing the process of inclusive nationbuilding, by initiating debates on the extent to which diversity has been dissipated by policies of the past and incorporating the voices of different groups in the country.

Parliament can draw an outline of a fresh national narrative. It can engage with all departments or institutions of the government, informing them of the consequences of their actions on social diversity. An active and effective parliament can fill the spaces which exist in our thoughts and that are exploited by multiple ideological players including the ISIS.

It is recognised that terrorist groups are more afraid of non-violent, soft measures than hard measures. They exploit hard measures by pushing the narrative of the victimhood of Islamic forces to justify both their existence and their violent acts.

Their reaction is stronger if someone challenges their narrative; be it religious scholars, the media or opinion makers. There are plenty of examples available that they hit hard those who challenge their arguments.

The content analysis of any militant publication would be helpful to understand the ideological paraphernalia of a terrorist group. For example, an old issue of Ahya-i-Khilafat (Revival of the Caliphate), a mouthpiece of the Tehreeki-Taliban Pakistan, consisted of 15 articles including an interview with its leader and profile of a leading commander.

Four articles were dedicated to their operations and so-called successes, two were against secularism, two detailed articles were meant to elaborate and glorify the caliphate system; but four articles were allocated to build their case against democracy and parliament.

One article titled I am a constitutional man was a satire on religious political leaders, that is what did it mean (for the militants) in religious terms when these leaders said they believed in a constitutional democracy. Parliament is a target of non-state actors and our Arab friends are also not happy with the institution on different grounds.

One is not sure whether or not parliamentarians know their importance and the role they have to play in developing a moderate and inclusive Pakistan.

Dawn/ANN.
Three Taliban militants were killed and 16 others captured after the Afghan Special Operation Forces carried out raids in two provinces, the military said.

"Three militants were killed and 11 detained following a Special Operation Force raid in Arghandab district of Kandahar province on Sunday," the Afghanistan Operational Coordination Group (AOCG) or command of Special Forces said in a statement on Monday.

In addition, five Taliban militants were detained in Shinwar District of eastern Nangarhar province on the same day, Xinhua quoted them as saying.

Afghan security forces have beefed up security operations against militants recently, as the Afghans have been witnessing a surge in attacks by Taliban and Islamic State (IS) affiliates across the country.

The Taliban has yet to make comments.


Police were rushed to a US vacation resort after a bystander livestreamed a shooting incident on Facebook Live in which several people were injured.

The injured were being treated at South Carolina hospitals after a gunman opened fire at Myrtle Beach, CBS News reported on Sunday.

According to Myrtle Beach Police, a fight broke out and one of the belligerents pulled a gun and fired.

Meanwhile, a bystander livestreamed the incident that alerted the police.

An armed security officer fired at the gunman but he carjacked a vehicle and got away from the scene. The police later arrested the attacker.

"Footage of the violent incident remained online as of Sunday afternoon. A representative for Facebook did not immediately respond to CBS News' request for comment," the rpeort added.

There have been several cases of livestreaming shooting incidents on Facebook in the recent past.
Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced here that its aerospace units have targeted the "terrorists" command centers in Syria's Deir ez-Zor with its missiles.

The missile attack on Sunday aimed to punish the "Takfiri terrorists" for their recent twin attacks in Iran's capital Tehran, the IRGC's Public Relations said in a statement.

It said that the mid-range missiles of the IRGC were launched from the Iranian western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan provinces, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the reports, large number of terrorists have been killed in the attacks and a large amount of weapons and ammunition have been destroyed in the attack, the statement said.

The IRGC vowed to respond determinedly to any terrorist attack against the Islamic republic.

On June 7, the Islamic State (IS) militants carried out twin operations in the capital Tehran on Iran's Parliament and the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Rouhollah Khomeini, which killed 17 and injured dozens.

On Tuesday, commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) said that Saudi Arabia has been behind June 7 terrorist attacks in Tehran.

"We have obtained accurate intelligence that Saudi Arabia supported the terrorists and asked them to carry out attacks in Iran," Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari was quoted as saying by semi-official Mehr news agency.
French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist party scored a decisive victory after the second round of parliamentary elections, the Interior Ministry announced.

With 97 per cent of the votes counted by Sunday night, Macron's La Republique En Marche (LREM) party won 300 seats in the 577 National Assembly.

Its political ally, the Mouvement Democrate (MoDem) won 41 seats in the polls held earlier on Sunday, reports CNN.

Former presidential hopeful Marine Le Pen's far-right National Front won only eight seats.

She won a seat in parliament for the first time, representing Henin-Beaumont, a former mining town in the north, reports the BBC.

The Socialists, who were in power for the past five years, alongside their partners, looked set to get only 41-49 seats  their lowest tally ever.

Macron's party, founded just a year ago, also won the first round of elections on June 11 with less than half of eligible voters going to the polls.

Sunday's polls were again marked by weak voter turnout. Nationwide, it stood at just over 35 per cent, CNN reported.

Macron won the French presidency last month without the support of a traditional mainstream party, as his newly minted "En Marche!" movement helped carry him to a convincing election victory over Le Pen.

The interim LREM leader, Catherine Barbaroux, said the party could now start work towards changing France.

"Far from postures, our members of parliament, through their multiple experiences, will vote for laws to unlock our economy, free up our energies, create new solidarities and protect the French," she told the BBC.

According to France's BFMTV, more than 1,000 candidates ran in Sunday's elections.


The US administration's new policy toward Cuba indicates a return to the Cold War, and Washington needs to listen to the international community's voice on this issue, Russia's Foreign Ministry said.

"The new policy on Cuba announced by US President Donald Trump brings us back to the already forgotten rhetoric in the style of the 'Cold War'. Such an approach has characterized the US attitude to Cuba for decades," the ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

Noting that the past five decades has shown the futility of "the arrogant style of doing business with Cuba", the ministry warned the US government that the anti-Cuban discourse, still in high demand though, would only cause regret, Xinhua reported.

Trump announced on Friday new restrictions on Americans' travel to Cuba and US business with the Cuban military, a step to tighten the US policy toward the neighbouring country.

The move is seen as an attempt to roll back parts of Obama's policy of normalizing US-Cuba diplomatic ties, which was introduced in December 2014.

It urged the Trump administration to pay attention to the anti-blockade resolutions repeatedly adopted by the UN General Assembly, which represent the almost unanimous voice of the international community on Cuba.

The ministry also reiterated Russia's "unshakable solidarity" with Cuba, adding that Moscow is for dialogue and cooperation, instead of blockades, sanctions or outside interference in internal affairs of sovereign states.

The US severed its ties with Cuba in 1961, shortly after Fidel Castro launched a revolution that toppled a US-friendly government, and the two countries had been at loggerheads ever since.


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The last days of the Newfie Pride

There were many nights he didnt sleep. The numbers and scenarios turned over and over in his mind, making rest impossible. Id get up two, three oclock in the morning, night after night, come out to the kitchen table and work the numbers every ...
This week began with the news of a 14-year-old boy in Bement being killed when his bicycle was struck by a train on Sunday. The Illinois State Police are investigating.

Four other stories to see today are a motorcycle accident victim was identified, Krekel's says it will reopen after fire, Robertson students help a museum exhibit and U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis was in Decatur to talk about the Farm Bill.

Boy dies after bicycle struck by train

Illinois State Police said a 14-year-old male bicyclist died Sunday afternoon after he was struck by a freight train in Bement.

A statement from trooper Tracy Lillard said the accident happened at 2:15 p.m at the crossing on Piatt Street and involved a Norfolk Southern train.

Motorcycle accident victim identified

The motorcyclist who died after a collision with a car in Decatur Saturday night has been named as Anthony J. Hart, 21, of rural Oakley.

A statement from Macon County Coroner Michael E. Day said Hart died Sunday while in surgery as surgeons fought to save him at Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Krekels planning to reopen after fire

The Krekel's Kustard at 2320 E. Main St. will rise again, but it could take a few months, employee Taylor James said.

The rear corner of the building caught fire Friday afternoon, and Decatur firefighters were able to contain the fire and save the building.

Robertson students support museum

A new exhibit at the African-American Cultural and Genealogical Society Museum of Illinois features 17 individual placards featuring biographical information about the Harlem Renaissance and the cast of entertainers, writers and activists who made significant contributions.

Robertson Charter School students in Sonje Sturdivants Mastering Academic Desire and Drive Lab raised more than $1,000 for the exhibit.

Farmers stress insurance in Farm Bill

As U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis prepares to work on the next Farm Bill, farmers in his district stressed the importance of crop insurance to their livelihood.

About a dozen people spent early Monday morning at the University of Illinois Extension office at Richland Community College to talk with Davis about the federal government's role in agriculture.
LERNA -- Signs point to the fact that Coles County is part of the area where Abraham Lincoln spent most of his Illinois life.

And a sign unveiled Saturday will show that "gateway" to the section of state where Lincoln roamed before becoming the 16th president.

A ceremony at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site featured the first showing of the sign that tells that Charleston is one of six "gateway communities" in the 42-county Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area.

Sarah Watson, executive director of the Looking for Lincoln organization, said the gateway signs will be a complement to larger signs on interstate highways.

Looking for Lincoln will oversee the federally designated heritage area to promote tourism and help people learn the story of Lincoln's time in Illinois, Watson said.

"It's a story we're really just starting to tell," she said.

The larger signs that tell motorists they're "entering the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area" are already in place on interstate highways at the area's borders.

The gateway communities in the heritage areas are locations with direct ties to Lincoln's history and with structured programs and facilities related to those ties.

On Saturday, Charleston city Planner Steve Pamperin presented a model of the gateway community sign that will be placed at the city's entrances.

"The intention is to tell the story of Lincoln in Coles County," he said.

Historic Site Manager Matthew Mittelstaedt said Lincoln's family ties to Coles County show that his story took place in a large part of the state.

Lincoln had close contact with his family, including his father and stepmother, whose home is featured at the historic site, until just before he became president, Mittelstaedt noted.

"Each part of the state has part of the Lincoln story," he said. "The heritage area is where most of the activity in Lincoln's life took place."

Those "long ties" to Lincoln's history help take people to the places to where he ventured, Mittelstaedt added. The impact of tourism to Illinois' economy shows the interest of programs to promote history and get people involved in it, he also said.
The influential separatist and chairman of a faction of the Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Geelani, said the people of Kashmir have always been friendly and generous towards Amarnath pilgrims and dismissed reports of terror threat to Amarnath Yatra as a misinformation campaign. The annual pilgrimage that begins on June 29, lasts for a month.

Geelani's statement assumes significance as he commands great influence among militant groups in Kashmir.

His statement was received well by the government authorities who are apprehensive that protests during the pilgrimage could worsen an already grim security situation in Kashmir.

In 2016, the separatist agitation, triggered by the killing of a Hizbul Mujahideen commander, had resulted in the Yatra being halted. Many pilgrims, who were left stranded in Jammu, cancelled the trip.

Geelani termed reports of militant threat as a calculated move aimed at discrediting Kashmir's political struggle.

He said the people of Kashmir were always hospitable to pilgrims and received them as guests.



"Kashmiris are not against any religion or its followers.They are pursuing a legitimate struggle for their fundamental rights," he said.



He said during the uprisings of 2008, 2010 and 2016, the people of Kashmir, despite restrictions and curfew, received the yatris with open arms and provided them shelter and food.



The recent spurt in militant attacks and infiltration bids has caused concern among the government and security circles.

The government has made adequate security arrangements for the successful conduct of the Yatra.

Sources said the government had requisitioned several thousand additional paramilitary forces.

Several thousand police and paramilitary forces have been mobilised to provide security to the pilgrims. The government has also made arrangements for medical assistance, drinking water, and transport facilities for the yatris.

Meanwhile, in Srinagar, Governor N.N. Vohra, who is also the chairman of Amarnath Shrine Board, inaugurated a control room.

The control room has a helpline for inquiries and complaints as may be received from the pilgrims.

The helpline will function from 9.30am to 6.00pm on all weekdays from 12 to 26 June. From 27 June, it will function without any breaks till the conclusion of the Yatra.

"Any person seeking information or help, facing any difficulty in regard to the forthcoming Yatra, which commences on 29 June 2017, can call 0194-2313146 or send an e-mail at sasbjk2001@gmail.com, a government statement said.
Vidisha police detained a class XI student, Vishal Dangi, for circulating a WhatsApp message and posting it on Facebook, last night. The message urged farmers to teach a lesson to the BJP government and those responsible for killing of farmers in Mandsaur.

As the message went viral, police raided the house of the student and arrested him from a nearby field where he was working. The 19-year-old student is the son of a farmer, and lives in Khiriyakehda village near Ganjbasoda in Vidisha district, 110 km from Bhopal. He belongs to the backward Dangi community.

Vishal is studying in a private school and is very popular on social media among his peers. Later, in a video message, Vishal said a huge posse of police force in two vans came to my house, they were accompanied by four-five motorcycles with policemen. When they did not find me, they came to my field and took me to Vidisha district headquarters.

Police detained Vishal for interrogation, and it was only after he accepted that he had inadvertently forwarded a WhatsApp message he had received on June 6 that he was released.

I was not beaten by police. I merely forwarded a post on 9th June which I got on 6th June, he said.

The social media post mentions the poor state of farmers in the state. It urges young people and farmers to rise against the government and forge unity.

This kind of social media post is not new in the state, which has witnessed a sudden upsurge of protests by farmers against the government. The huge arson and violence in Mandsaur and western Madhya Pradesh last week gave way to the spread of such information and rumours.

The government has suspended the use of internet in many districts after it was found that rumours spread fast and farmers were gathering at various points to create ruckus.

Meanwhile, former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Kamal Nath said that there is undeclared Emergency-like situation in Madhya Pradesh, especially in the area where the chief minister comes from. It is unfortunate that a student, who committed an innocent mistake, was arrested in a manner which was more befitting to a hardened criminal, he said.

It is unfortunate that the state police is behaving with students as if they are terrorists. Now, speaking truth has become a crime in Madhya Pradesh, said Ajay Singh, leader of opposition. He asked why a student was kept in police detention for a mere case of freedom of expression.

Vidisha police has clarified that a case has not been registered against Vishal Dangi, and he was released after initial interrogation.
Springing a surprise, the BJP on Monday named Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, a dalit and a BJP leader, as the ruling NDA's candidate for the July 17 presidential election.

"We have decided that Ram Nath Kovind will be the NDA presidential candidate," Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah said after a nearly two-hour long meeting of the party's parliamentary board, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders, in New Delhi.

He said the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance had been discussing the presidential election for long.

"The BJP also discussed the issue with all political parties and several sections of the society. After this, a long list (of candidates) was prepared which was discussed during the parliamentary board meeting," Shah told the media.

Kovind, 72, who emerged as the dark horse, is likely to file his nomination on June 23, he said.

The names which were doing the rounds for presidency included External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.

While all NDA allies have been informed of the BJP choice, Prime Minister Modi talked to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh and other leaders about the NDA's choice, the BJP president said.

Modi also spoke with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar (JD-U), Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik (BJD), Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao (TRS) and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu (TDP).

Senior BJP leader M. Venkaiah Naidu spoke to party veterans L.K. Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi.

"Ram Nath comes from a dalit family and has struggled a lot. We hope he will be the unanimous candidate for the election," Shah said.

An advocate by profession, Kovind was made the governor of Bihar two years ago after the NDA took power in the Centre in May 2014.

He once headed the BJP's dalit wing. He was a member of the Rajya Sabha for 12 years and was a member of several parliamentary panels.

He had practised law in both High Court and the Supreme Court.
Ram Nath Kovind, the governor of Bihar and now the presidential candidate of the ruling NDA, seems to have been pulled out of the hat like the proverbial rabbit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah. They have managed to surprise every political party and the media, even though the prime minister had shared the name as their choice with Congress president Sonia Gandhi and former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh.

We informed the others, said Shah.

Modi and Shah have taken the winds out of the anti-BJP parties' efforts to unite with the pretext of a common presidential candidate by presenting a dalit with attributes that they as well as the ruling party wants.

Yet, Kovind's name should not have come as a surprise. Twitterati found Kovind a dark horse three days ago. And over a fortnight ago, one of them tweeted that he was not just a dalit, but a highly learned person. From RSS background.

A two-time member of the Rajya Sabha (1994-2000 and 2000-2006), Kovind was a prominent lawyer, having been an advocate for the Central government in the past. He has addressed the UN, thus packing quite a bit into why he was chosen to succeed President Pranab Mukherjee to the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

It is generally believed that caste does not matter when we choose the man who will be the conscience keeper of political parties as well as the first keeper of the Constitution of India. So it does not matter that he is dalit. However, at a time when the dalits in Gujarat are protesting against the government, and there is unrest in Uttar Pradesh, projecting a dalit as the first citizen helps.

It is not yet clear as to whose idea it was to zero in on Kovind. But sources in the BJP say that it is obvious that the governors and former governors are among the first lot to be considered. And Kovind, said to be enjoying a good rapport with opposition parties  the ruling JD(U)-RJD and Congress in Bihar  would make his candidature difficult for opposition parties to oppose.

Kovind is the NDA candidate, and not just that of the BJP, Shah made it clear.
The decision of the Bharatiya Janata Party to nominate Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Alliance has drawn mixed reactions from opposition parties and some of the NDA allies. Here is a quick peek into the comments of various leaders after the BJP announcement.

Will take final decision on June 22: Congress

"So far as the National Democratic Alliance nominee is concerned, the Congress has nothing to say on the merits or demerits. All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met," Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said.

"We had full hope that before announcing they will discuss some names. They did inform us but only after they had decided on the name," he said and termed the outreach by the BJP as a "formality".

TRS to support

Telangana Rashtra Samithi decided to support Kovind's candidature. The party took the decision after its president and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao received a phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"As per your suggestion we have decided upon a dalit candidate for the presidential post," a statement from the chief minister quoted the prime minister as saying. Modi requested Rao to support the candidate. The TRS chief consulted the party colleagues and later conveyed his party support for the presidential candidate to the prime minister.

Shiv Sena non-committal

Responding to the choice of BJP's presidential candidate, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said that they would not stand by the BJP if they were trying to consolidate a vote bank. Reportedly, Shiv Sena had put forth the names of agriculturist M.S. Swaminathan and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.

BJP named Kovind 'unilaterally': Yechury

The CPI(M) said the BJP "unilaterally" selected Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's presidential nominee and the opposition will meet on June 22 to decide their next step ahead of the July 17 polls.

CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said that the non-NDA parties will take the decision "keeping in mind the country's history that the ruling and opposition parties contested the polls on all occasion except once".

"It was their (NDA's) proposal that they will get back to the opposition after zeroing on a candidate. They did not come back to the opposition and announced the candidate," Yechury told reporters

Never heard of Kovind: Mamata

Expressing surprise at the BJP's decision, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed she had never heard of the nominee and termed it a "not so mature" move.

"I have not heard his name ever before. I do not know him. I could recognise him only after he was mentioned as the Bihar governor. I can say that I am surprised by the decision," Mamata said.

"His name did not come during our discussion. We gave a consensus proposal as the president is a very important portfolio. This name is like a bolt from the blue. This is not a very mature decision," she said.

Nitish praises Kovind, but mum on support

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar showered praise on Ram Nath Kovind, saying he is "personally glad" over his candidature.

However, he was non-committal on whether his Janata Dal-United (JD-U) will support Kovind.

"Kovind has discharged his duties in an unbiased manner as the Bihar governor. He has worked as per the Constitution and upheld the dignity of the governor's post. His was an ideal relation with the state government," Nitish Kumar said after meeting Kovind at Raj Bhavan in Patna.

As to whether the JD-U will support his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: "It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and Congress president Sonia Gandhi on this issue. We will discuss the issue later and decide."

Won't oppose: Mayawati

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said that while she does not subscribe to the political lineage of Kovind, her party's stand on his presidential candidature will "be positive and certainly not negative".

In a statement, the four-time Uttar Pradesh chief minister said BJP president Amit Shah and Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu had telephonically informed her that Kovind would be the NDA candidate for the office of the President of India.

The BSP leader said since Kovind came from the Kori community, which though in small numbers was a part of dalits, she would never oppose his candidature.

Will let you know our decision: Naveen

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday said his Biju Janata Dal (BJD) will decide on the NDA's presidential candidate after a discussion among the senior party leaders.

"We will clear our stand on support to NDA candidate after a discussion with senior leaders. We will let you know after that," Patnaik told media persons.
The sprawling Ramabai Ambedkar Ground on the east of Lucknow is adorned with festoons, buntings, flags as last minute preparations are in full swing to host International Yoga Day on June 21. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with many senior ministers, will take part in the event to be held here. Modi will be performing various yoga asana along with a crowd of 55,000 people.

According to officials hosting the events, the main programme will start around 6.30 am, but entry for participants will begin around 2.00 am and will close at 5.30 am. Participants will be allowed after a careful scrutiny of their credentials and registration. They will also be provided a yoga mat and a t-shirt.

According to Virendra Pandey, Additional District Magistrate (east), Lucknow, elaborate security arrangements have been made to make the event a grand success. Over 400 CCTV cameras have been set up on every nook and corner of the venue. Besides local cops, paramilitary force personnel and commandos will also be on strict vigil at the venue. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath himself has been monitoring the preparations for the event. He had earlier directed to hold workshops for participants.

The Lucknow administration has installed giant LED screens in 11 prominent parks of the city so that morning joggers could also watch the event.

The government has extended invitations to former chief ministers and prominent political leaders to take part in the event. Various parallel yoga sessions will also be performed, including the participation of around 90,000 prisoners in various jails of the state, to make the event a success.

According to Jai Kumar Singh, minister of state for jail and public service management, this is being done to develop a positive thinking among the prisoners.

About 1,000 Army personnel are also expected to take part in the mega event. According to Lt. Colonel T.P. Dinesh, who is the in-charge of Army personnel participation, practice sessions had been held for the participants in the past few weeks and there is a lot of excitement among them.

Besides Lucknow, in Varanasi, the PMs constituency, arrangements have been made to observe Yoga Day. The Varanasi Municipal Corporation is the nodal agency for holding this event, which will be held in Dr. Sampurnanda Stadium in the heart of the city. The local administration has named it Kashi Yog festival.

According to Shrihari Pratap Shahi, municipal commissioner, practice sessions in this regard have been going on for more than three weeks at 90 prominent points in Varanasi. Bollywood stars such as Shilpa Shetty are likely to participate in the event.

UP and the Centre have put in a lot of energy to make the PMs programme a high-decibel event. Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Shripad Naik and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were personally involved in finalising the event.

Interestingly, members of the Muslim community too are likely to take part in this mega event. Keeping aside the differences of religion and faith, this kind of participation by our community will give a good message, said Muneer Alam, a local of Lucknow.
Before coming to the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Bryanne Noritsky knew nothing about Krishna or his mythical legacy. Noritsky chanced upon the temple while exploring the sights of Spanish Fork in Utah, USA. Im part of a workaway community and discovered the Radha Krishna Temple through them, says Noritsky, who has been staying at the temple for more than two weeks.

This is the only temple in the country built amidst nature. That amazes me, she says. A year ago, I was supposed to go to India and it didnt happen. But through my stay at the temple, Im learning many things Indianhow to eat, how to get dressed, different types of food and even about ayurveda. One day when I finally visit India, my stay here will help me understand Indian culture better. Im getting to meet so many people, some of whom have been Krishna devotees for 20 years.

Modelled after the Kusum Sarovar, a sandstone monument in Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, the temple was built 12 years ago by Christopher Warden and his wife, Christine, who became Caru Das and Vaibhavi Devi after joining the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Today, the temple is known for organising its annual Festival of Colours, which is attended by followers and non-followers alike.

Joe Perry, now known by the name Jai Krishna Das, was fascinated by the concept of a personal god. I met two devotees who invited me to a Sunday feast programme; that was the first time I saw an aarti and attended a class on Bhagvad Gita, he says. I loved the prasad and kirtan music. That was in 1988.

Michelle Newitt visited the temple to witness the Festival of Colours and fell in love with the kirtan sessions. I have been coming here for a year. One thing that stands out to me is the whole bhakti culturekirtans, music and dancing. My soul calls for it, says Newitt.

For Jessica Howe, it was the beauty and power of the mantras that created an impact. I can leave and come back but the mantras will still mean the same, says Howe.

In 2013, Kanak Das, a priest from India, moved into the temple with his family. When visitors come, I take them on a temple tour, says Das. Some visitors want to understand the philosophy and, especially the goal of the society.
DECATUR  A Decatur woman who objected to three women parking their car on her driveway was punched, dragged to the ground by hair and beaten, according to police.

The incident happened Friday afternoon in the 1200 block of E. Prairie Avenue, said Sgt. Josh Sheets. The woman told police she parked behind the strangers' vehicle and went and sat on her porch. The women, two aged around 16 and a driver of about 30, came back a few minutes later and became immediately abusive when told to remove their vehicle.

One of the younger females walked up to the victim... and punched her in the left side of her head, said Sheets.

He says the assailant then pulled the 53-year-old victim to the ground by her hair and, assisted by the other teenager, punched her in the head repeatedly. Sheets said at one point two men showed up and threatened to burn the victim's house down. The three women fled after police were called, driving their car across the victim's yard to escape. They are all being sought on battery charges.
Irans ballistic missile strike targeting the Islamic State group in Syria served both as revenge for attacks on Tehran earlier this month and a warning that Iran could strike Saudi Arabia and U.S. interests in the Mideast, an Iranian general said Monday.

The launch, which hit Syrias eastern city of Deir el-Zour on Sunday night, appeared to be Irans first missile attack abroad in over 15 years and its first in the Syrian conflict amid its support of embattled President Bashar Assad.

It adds new tensions in a region already unsettled by a long-running feud between Shiite power Iran and the Sunni kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as a campaign by Arab nations against Qatar.

It also raises questions about how U.S. President Donald Trumps administration, which already said it put Iran on notice for its ballistic missile tests, will respond.

Irans powerful Revolutionary Guard, a paramilitary force in charge of the countrys missile program, said it launched six Zolfaghar ballistic missiles from the western provinces of Kermanshah and Kurdistan. State television footage showed the missiles on truck missile launchers in the daylight before being launched at night.

The missiles flew over Iraq before striking what the Guard called an Islamic State command center and suicide car bomb operation in Deir el-Zour, over 600 kilometers (370 miles) away. The extremists have been trying to fortify their positions in the Syrian city in the face of a U.S.-led coalition onslaught on Raqqa, the groups de facto capital.

Activists in Syria said they had no immediate information on damage or casualties from the strikes, nor did the Islamic State group immediately acknowledge it. The Guard released black-and-white footage it said came from a drone showing the strikes, a column of thick black smoke rising into the sky after the attack.

The Guard described the missile strike as revenge for attacks on Tehran earlier this month. Five Islamic State-linked attackers stormed Irans parliament and a shrine to revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini on June 7, killing at least 18 people and wounding more than 50. That Islamic State assault, the first to hit Iran, shook residents who believed the chaos engulfing the rest of the Middle East would not find them.

But the missiles sent a message to more than just the extremists in Iraq and Syria, Gen. Ramazan Sharif of the Guard told state television in a telephone interview.

The Saudis and Americans are especially receivers of this message, he said. Obviously and clearly, some reactionary countries of the region, especially Saudi Arabia, had announced that they are trying to bring insecurity into Iran.

The Zolfaghar missile, unveiled in September 2016, was described at the time as carrying a cluster warhead and being able to strike as far as 700 kilometers (435 miles) away.

That puts the missile in range of the forward headquarters of the U.S. militarys Central Command in Qatar, American bases in the United Arab Emirates and the U.S. Navys 5th Fleet in Bahrain.

The missile also could strike Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. While Iran has other ballistic missiles it says can reach longer distances, Sunday nights launch appears to mark the longest strike it has launched abroad. Irans last foreign missile strike is believed to have been carried out in April 2001, targeting an Iranian exile group in Iraq.

Iran has described the Tehran attackers as being long affiliated with the Wahhabi, an ultraconservative form of Sunni Islam practiced in Saudi Arabia. However, it stopped short of directly blaming the kingdom for the attack, though many in the country have expressed suspicion that Irans regional rival had a hand in the assault.

Emboldened Sunni Arab states backed by Trump have hardened their stance against Iran. Since Trump took office, his administration has put new economic sanctions on those allegedly involved with the program. However, the test launches havent affect Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Sundays launch also carried religious undertones.

The Guard, which answers only to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, called the launch Operation Laylat al-Qadar, referring to the night Muslims believe the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Thats believed to fall in the last 10 days of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, now underway. The name of the missile, Zolfaghar, is also the name of the sword used by Imam Ali, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and his successor, according to Shiite belief.

Israel also remains concerned about Irans missile launches and has deployed a multilayered missile-defense system over fears of potential Iranian attacks. When Iran unveiled the Zolfaghar in 2016, it bore a banner printed with a 2013 anti-Israeli quote by Khamenei saying that Iran will annihilate the cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa should Israel attack Iran.

Israeli security officials said Monday they were studying the missile strike to see what they could learn about its accuracy and capabilities. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to reporters.

(AP)
Armenias National Center to Ensure Quality Professional Education has started to inspect medical colleges and universities that have not yet received institutional certification.

Staffers from the center first visited the Armenian Medical Institute and met with Levon Asatryan, the schools rector.

Asatryan said the institute plans to file for certification this year.

The center plans to visit the Saint Theresa Medical University, the University of traditional Medicine, and the Yerevan University of Management, among others.

Among universities providing medical training, only the State Medical University in Yerevan has institutional certification.
Polands prime minister says that heavily-criticized remarks she made last week at Auschwitz werent about refugees as many people assumed.

Beata Szydlo told the wPolityce website Monday that the comments in no way referred to the issue of migration and that this was not even the context.

Szydlo said last week during a memorial observance at Auschwitz that in todays restless times, Auschwitz is a great lesson showing that everything must be done to protect the safety and life of ones citizens.

The comments were widely understood as a defense of her conservative governments refusal to accept refugees as part of a European Union resettlement plan.

That position prompted the European Commission to launch legal action last week against Poland, along with the Czech Republic and Hungary.

(AP)
Israel Police at Ben-Gurion International Airport arrested a 63-year-old man who presented himself as a money changer. He offered travelers to exchange shekels to Bulgarian or Romanian currency at a reduced rate.

According to police, it appears the money he was selling for cheap was expired non-usable currency.

When police detectives arrived at the airport the suspect tried to make a run for it but he was apprehended and will be arraigned.

(YWN  Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
Health test: Vital signs are improving at medical firm LiDCO

LiDCO is a medical devices company with clever technology and a propensity to disappoint investors.

Midas recommended the shares in January 2014 at 19.9p. Today, they are 7.875p, having dipped to 5.5p last summer.

So what has gone wrong and will it be put right?

LiDCO supplies hospitals with equipment that helps doctors monitor patients blood flow during critical illness and operations.

Ensuring the heart and other vital organs are receiving enough oxygen during surgery and after-care can make the difference between life and death.

And LiDCOs technology has been proven to reduce patient fatalities, post-operative complications and hospital stays.

It is also easy to use and generally works by just wrapping a band around a patients finger and monitoring blood flow on a computer screen.

However, too few hospitals are using LiDCO equipment, particularly in the US, the biggest healthcare market in the world.

The company has suffered from being too small and strapped for cash to sell its wares properly in America.

The group has also faced criticism in the past that its monitors were a little clunky, not in terms of information delivered but in terms of graphics and design.

In recent months, LiDCO has taken steps to address both of these issues. The group raised 3 million on the stock market in December to fund expansion, primarily in the US.

Equipment has now been upgraded to cutting-edge design and a new monitor can be used seamlessly as patients move from operating theatres to intensive care to high dependency units.

The board has been transformed too. Founder Terry OBrien stepped down in 2015, replaced by Matt Sassone, who has more than 20 years experience in the medical devices market.

A new finance director is joining in July and a new chairman, Peter Grant, has stepped up to the post after last months annual meeting.

Grant was chief executive of medical firm Skyepharma and was previously finance director at payments group Worldpay, so he brings experience of both the medical and IT worlds to LiDCO.

Sassone has also been bringing his experience to bear at the company, devising a new pricing model, which should make LiDCO demonstrably better value than rivals in busy hospitals.

Until now, LiDCO, along with most others in the field, have sold their monitors outright to hospitals and sold them disposable accoutrements, such as smart cards and finger bands, separately.

Under the new model, hospitals will be offered a set price for both the monitor and as many disposable items as they need in a year.

This all-in package  which received regulatory clearance this month  is expected to give LiDCO a competitive edge and help improve sales in the all-important US.

Sassone has also been bringing his experience to bear at the company, devising a new pricing model, which should make LiDCO demonstrably better value than rivals in busy hospitals.

Until now, LiDCO, along with most others in the field, have sold their monitors outright to hospitals and sold them disposable accoutrements, such as smart cards and finger bands, separately.

Under the new model, hospitals will be offered a set price for both the monitor and as many disposable items as they need in a year. This all-in package  which received regulatory clearance this month  is expected to give LiDCO a competitive edge and help improve sales in the all-important US.

Midas verdict: LiDCO shares have been a sorry investment. Revenues have drifted, profit growth has proved elusive and the stock has slumped. But it would be a mistake to sell now. A new board is in place, the technology is proven and the target market is worth more than 150 million. Existing investors should hold. New investors may even take a gamble at current levels.
Merger move

Secret talks have reportedly taken place between Scottish Widows and rival Standard Life in a deal to create one of Britains largest life insurers.

Exports boom

British exporters have outperformed Germany and France for the last 15 months thanks to a surge in manufacturing orders driven by the weak pound.

Talks: Scottish Widows in line for Standard Life merger

Pension row

Efforts to save the struggling Co-op Bank could be sunk by a spat over its pension pot.

Driving forward

Profits at the RAC were 67m last year, up from a 6m loss the year before.

Shop sale

Online retailer Shop Direct could be snapped up by a San Francisco private equity house.

Pioneering Silicon Valley billionaire Elon Musk is keen to explore Mars

Mars mission

Silicon Valley billionaire Elon Musk has called for an epic mission to colonise Mars so that humanity can survive even if Earth becomes uninhabitable.

Charging decision

The Serious Fraud Office could criminally charge Barclays this week over claims it illegally paid 322m to Qatari investors who helped save the bank during the financial crisis.

Cruising on

River cruise company Riviera Travel has reportedly been put up for sale with a 250m price tag.
The Chancellor hinted that taxes could rise in order to ease cuts to public spending yesterday  as he attacked Theresa May for hiding him away during the election campaign.

Philip Hammond warned that people are weary of the long slog of austerity as he promised to look again at planned reductions in money for councils.

But he accused the Prime Minister of losing her Commons majority by failing to make the case for economic responsibility.

The Chancellor (pictured on the Andrew Marr show yesterday) hinted that taxes could rise in order to ease cuts to public spending yesterday

Criticising Mrs Mays election strategy, Mr Hammond joked that he had been kept not quite in a cupboard over the course of the campaign.

The Chancellor  barely visible in the run-up to the vote on June 8  said the Tories would have probably done better if they had focused on their economic record.

Mr Hammond said that his role in the campaign had not been the one I would have liked it to be.

He told BBC1s Andrew Marr Show: I did a lot of travelling around the country.

I met lots of very interesting people, I heard lots of interesting stories. I would have liked to have made much more of our economic record, which I think is an excellent one, creating 2.9million new jobs, getting the deficit down by three-quarters.

Mr Hammond warned that people are weary of the long slog of austerity as he promised to look again at planned reductions in money for councils

Criticising Mrs Mays election strategy, Mr Hammond joked that he had been kept not quite in a cupboard over the course of the campaign

Asked if the PMs former aides Nick Timothy and Fiona Hill had kept him off the air waves, the Chancellor replied: Im not going to speculate about what happened inside the campaign leadership team.

The end result is, in my judgment, we didnt talk about the economy as much as we should have done. We didnt put enough energy into dismantling Jeremy Corbyns economic proposals and his spending plans, which would be catastrophic for this country, and we will now do that.

He said that, in light of the election result, he would look again at planned spending cuts ahead of Novembers Budget, adding: Obviously were not deaf.

But Mr Hammond warned that taxpayers could face rises to pay for a loosening of the purse strings. He said: Weve never said we wont raise some taxes.

He criticising Theresa Mays (pictured at church yesterday) election strategy

Overall we are a government that believes in low taxes and we want to reduce the burden of taxes overall for working families. That is our political objective.

But what is dishonest is the approach the Labour Party took in the general election  pretending that you can raise taxes but they will never impact ordinary people.

Im afraid increasing the burden of taxation will have an impact. If its tax on companies it will reduce investment and the creation of jobs.

Later, Mr Hammond told ITVs Peston on Sunday: I certainly recognise that people are weary after seven years of rebuilding the economy from the horrors that we saw after the financial crash.

Mrs May had been widely expected to sack Mr Hammond if she secured a large majority, but after the party lost MPs she kept him in post.

In an awkward campaign appearance together last month, the Prime Minister  standing alongside Mr Hammond  had refused to say if he would keep his job. The Chancellor kept a low profile for the rest of the campaign.

Theresa May must scrap the NHS pay freeze because standards of care are becoming unsafe, union bosses warn.

The leaders of 16 medical organisations have written to the PM urging her to end a seven-year cap on pay as they say hospitals and ambulance services are becoming dangerously understaffed.

The letter  signed by the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Midwives  was co-ordinated by the Royal College of Nursing, which last month said it would be staging a summer of protests over the pay cap.
Dear Federica, dear Johannes,

Dear colleagues,



Needless to say that approaching the upcoming summit with tangible results will contribute to the future productive cooperation in the framework of the Eastern Partnership.



These past two years we have been actively working on the implementation of the provisions of the Riga Declaration and have been able to deliver in almost all mutual commitments relating to Armenia, namely joining COSME and HORIZON 2020 programs, launching negotiations on the Common Aviation Area Agreement, as well as the Creative Europe, that we intend to finalize soon.



There are also some pending issues that we are looking forward to deal with, including the launching of the Visa Liberalization Dialogue. We count on the clear support of the EU member states in this regard.



Within a relatively short time-frame we managed to negotiate the new Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. The completion of the negotiations was announced by Presidents Sargsyan and Tusk in February in Brussels. The text has been initialed and we look forward to sign it at the upcoming summit.



Almost in parallel we discussed and agreed on the Partnership Priorities for 2017-2020. These two important documents will guide Armenia-EU partnership in coming years and help us to strengthen our mutually beneficial cooperation.



Dear colleagues,



I would like to once again highly appreciate the EUs continued assistance, including through the Eastern Partnership initiative, provided to our country over the years for the effective implementation of the reform process and institutional capacity building in Armenia. We look forward to the continuation of fruitful cooperation in this regard.



The parliamentary elections held in Armenia in April were marked by unprecedented high number of international observers, who stated that the elections were well administered, fundamental freedoms were respected, and the results reflected the will of the population. These parliamentary elections had a particular importance for Armenias transition from semi-presidential to parliamentary system of governance.



I would like to thank the European Commission and European External Action Service for providing us with 20 deliverables for 2020 document that not only offers a good action plan for the coming years but also a new revised architecture of the Eastern Partnership, which is directly linked to the performance of the partner countries within this multilateral framework and more importantly to the political will to deliver on the shared commitments.



We also believe that the principle of differentiation offers a unique opportunity to develop a multi-track or multi-layer cooperation, thus allowing us to maintain the integrity of the partnership.



Dear colleagues,



Looking forward to the upcoming Summit and our cooperation beyond it Armenia remains committed to contribute to the joint efforts in the Eastern Partnership framework.

If you found a typo you can notify us by selecting the text area and pressing CTRL+Enter


Sir,



I have been following the story on the Mhlume High School pupils with keen interest especially after the first report that they had been sent home for laughing during an assembly session. As a parent, that to me is a sign that these pupils do not have the respect that is expected from them.



From what the administration said when the story broke out, it was clear that there was a lot of wrong that was going on at school. The administration talked about the pupils being found with dagga and this really got me worried.



I was not shocked then that an even bigger scandal has been revealed about the same pupils that they have what they call a palace where they engage in illicit acts like sexual intercourse. Such is sad because the parents who work hard to see to it that they get the best education were not aware that there was a palace. The only thing they knew was that their children were at school as a way of building their careers.



However, I am concerned with the school administration itself. I am of the view that it has not been strict enough when it comes to instilling discipline in these pupils. I mean, after finding condoms and beer bottles littered around the school premises some serious action should have been taken there without even waiting for a parents meeting.

The head teacher apparently promised that the administration was working hard to ensure that they restore discipline in the school but I feel it might be late already.



It is the duty of all school administrations to ensure discipline in schools because these young people cannot be educated without discipline. If they are not disciplined it can cost them later in their careers.

The Ministry of Education and Training should also come to the party and assist the schools because the head teachers and members of staff cannot fight this battle alone.



No school can produce good pupils if it does not ensure that it has a set of rules and guidelines that will remind these young souls of the proper conduct of behaviour.

The fact that these pupils are in high school it means that they are at a time of their lives where they need the discipline even more and this is what will help them achieve their goals as they grow up.



Concerned parent




PRETORIA - It took a trip to the Gauteng Province in South Africa for contractor and businessman Bheki Mabuza to finally convince the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that he was good at what he does.



This is after the PAC was left extremely pleased when it visited one of the State houses in Pretoria at Savannah Country Estate, which was constructed by Mabuzas company Multi-Build. The state-of-the-art building cost government around E2.4 million and is currently occupied by the Third Secretary from the Swazi High Commission in Pretoria.



What prompted the PACs visit to the neighbouring country and to inspect the site was that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation had given two versions of what had happened to the house at the estate.

Last year, the PAC was told that the ministry had failed to utilise some of the E4m which had been budgeted for the purchasing of four staff houses in South Africa.



It had submitted that it had only managed to purchase two houses, one of which was in the Savannah Country Estate.

They said the house comprised of four bedrooms, two bathrooms, one study, one spacious kitchen, living area, dining room, double garage, nanny house and a swimming pool.



However, in May 2017 the committee was informed that no house had been purchased, but only a piece of land with a slab and a new house constructed. This, therefore, prompted the MP Thuli Dladla-led committee to conduct an inspection in loco.

Before the delegation went to inspect the Savannah residence, Mabuza first briefed them at the embassy in the presence of High Commissioner Dumisile Sukati of what had happened.
mhlume  Mhlume High School groundsman Abraham Nkomonye pointing to the hole allegedly made by pupils in the school fence leading to the sex den named the Palace by pupils.

MHLUME  In South Africa, politicians are accusing their President Jacob Zuma of state capture, locally Mhlume High School is said to be captured by the pupils.



The school is captured by disrespecting pupils, the school head teacher Siphosini Mazibuko told parents of about 100 Form IV pupils during an impromptu meeting that was held at the schools hall on Thursday morning.

The pupils had been sent back home the previous day by administration after it felt disrespected by the learners during morning assembly when they started laughing.



He alleged that pupils at the school, mostly those in higher grades, engage in sexual intercourse at the palace.

Bayalalana labantfwana lasikolweni ngetikhatsi tabo, he said, loosely translated; These children engage in sexual intercourse here at school at different times.



Mumbles could be heard from parents when Mazibuko informed them about sex escapades which took place allegedly even within the school premises.

Mazibuko had to wait for a few seconds to allow the about 50 parents to digest his point.



He added that some of the acts were done within the school premises since condoms were found littered around.

Mazibuko explained that the palace was a code name used by the pupils of a section within sugar cane fields situated near the school.

He mentioned that the pupils had made holes in the school fence in order to access the palace without being seen by the school security personnel.
SITEKI  Two mourners, who were reportedly returning from a funeral, were killed when a mini-truck they were travelling in overturned near Mayaluka area, along the Malindza-Mbhandlane public road yesterday at noon.



Other passengers who were onboard the mini-truck, including the driver, were rushed to hospital and, according to paramedics, some of them were in a critical condition.

Police said only six passengers were admitted.



The deceased passengers were identified by the police only as two females aged 38 and 17 years respectively.

Other details of their identities, including names and places of residence, were not available at the time of compiling this report yesterday afternoon.



Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the mini-truck overturned after the driver lost control of it.

A mini-truck which was driven by a Swazi male adult aged 25 lost control after its front tyre burst. Two passengers who were onboard lost their lives, said Phindile Vilakati, Deputy Police Information and Communications Officer.



She said traffic officers were investigating reports that the mini-truck was overloaded.

Witnesses alleged that there were over 20 people who were onboard the mini-truck.



Paramedics transported 18 people to hospital and others were rushed by good Samaritans, said a witness.

Meanwhile, a source told this publication that the mini-truck was travelling from Manzini to KaShoba area near Mpolonjeni, not very far from Siteki town.
MBABANE- Prominent army officials have also been fingered in the fingerprints clearance scandal.



Although their names are not mentioned in the indictment that has been filed at the High Court, one witness disclosed that he approached some prominent officials within the army who then assisted him to have his fingerprints record cleared.



This witness wanted to join the Umbutfo Swaziland Defence Force (USDF).

According to the witness, he stated that he was convicted for assault and in the year 2005 wanted to join the army.

In his sworn statement which now forms part of the Crowns evidence, the witness mentioned that he was told he was not eligible to join the army as he had a criminal record.



This witness then talked to some prominent people (within the army) who assisted him. One year later, he wanted to travel to Uganda. The criminal record was again sorted by some officers in the army, reads part of the indictment.

This witness is now in gainful employment as a soldier.

In the indictment a number of witnesses narrated how they joined the army after their fingerprints records were unlawfully cleared by the accused.



Recently it was revealed in court that the executive of the Royal Swaziland Police had been reported to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in connection to the fingerprints case.



According to the amended indictment filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), it was not only members of the armed forces and teachers who benefitted, but individuals who are now directors of big companies who also had their criminal records cleared to get jobs.
BAKU, 19 June 2017  The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June.

The main purpose of the Co-Chairs visit was to discuss the position of the Sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (28 April) as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone.

The Co-Chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan (10 June) and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku (19 June). In both capitals, they also held consultations with the Foreign and Defence Ministers. The Co-Chairs traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh (12 June) to meet with de facto authorities, and visited a number of territories around Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Zangelan, Kubatly, Lachin, and Kelbajar districts. In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh.

In their talks in Baku, the Co-Chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the Line of Contact, on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan. They appealed to the leadership of Azerbaijan to avoid further escalation. The Co-Chairs are sending the same message to the leadership of Armenia and de facto authorities of Nagorno-Karabakh. They encouraged the Sides to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the Line of Contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In both capitals, the Co-Chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The Presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement.

The Co-Chairs will travel to Vienna to brief the members of the Minsk Group on 3 July. They also plan to meet again soon with the Azerbaijani and Armenian Foreign Ministers to discuss modalities of the forthcoming work.
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By Angelica Acevedo

The Archbishop Molloy High School is hosting a memorial event in honor of alumnus Karina Vetrano, who was murdered in August while jogging in Howard Beach.

The June 23-24 eventwill feature an overnight relay walk/run open to the public and a Catholic mass and brunch.

A permanent memorial will be dedicated in Vetranos memory.

Molloy said the event was organized in an effort to inspire members of the greater Queens Community to make charitable contributions to a scholarship they created in Vetranos name. The school said the scholarship will benefit deserving young women who enter Molloy in her memory.

Phil Vetrano, Karinas father, will begin the relay by carrying an item that belonged to Karina and will then pass it on to participating family members and friends. Vetrano spoke on behalf of his family to invite any and all people to participate in the event.

It would mean so much to my family and to everyone at Molloy, in Howard Beach, and all over Queens to see Karinas memory carry on by helping kids at the high school she loved, Vetrano said. The more people that get involved, the stronger our belief that Karina will never be forgotten.
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By Naeisha Rose

Friends, family, Scouts, veterans and a marching band were out in full force Saturday in Sunnyside for Flag Day, waving the red, white and blue in sweltering 90-degree weather.

Together they marched from Greenpoint Avenue and 41st Street to Joe Sabba Park, located at 49th Street and Queens Boulevard.

The park was named after Sabba, a Sunnyside resident, to recognize his honorable service in the Army Air Corps during World War II and his activism helping people throughout his neighborhood, according to the Archives of the mayors office.

Ive come for the last 14 years because I love America, and in Queens we have so many nationalities, Kitty McGee said. Queens is the most ethnically diverse county, and I love it.

Her friend, Kathy Jacob, came out because it is patriotic and she wanted to salute the flag.

The Pena and Perez family turned out seven strong waving the American flag while some dressed in traditional Mexican costumes.

Flag Day means culture and family, Jasmine Perez said. All the people in Sunnyside, or wherever, come together and celebrate where we live.

Representing the Boy Scouts in the neighborhoods of Woodside and Sunnyside at the parade were Troop 390 members Eddie Avila, Ziad Wazihullah, both 14, and Noah Jacobson, 13.

Its a really good holiday that everybody from Sunnyside really loves, Ziad said.

Vietnam veterans Mike Smith and Paul Dubois, along with auxiliary support member Sandra Bigitschke, celebrated the event by representing Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2813, which is located at 47-53 43rd St. in Woodside,.

Its just our way to express our appreciation to everybody in the country, Smith said.

Its to honor the flag under which I served, said Dubois.

Playing the flute with the Long Island City Marching Band was Band President George Vazquez.

Im here to let people know we are out there and for the fun of it, said Vazquez, who leads a group of 20 people. Even though its a small group, Im grateful for these people coming here.
Pa. Dems could flip the House of Reps. Here's what that might mean.
John Carl D'Annibale

ALBANY  Outgoing State University of New York Chancellor Nancy Zimpher has agreed to stay on the job through the summer until the incoming chancellor, Kristina Johnson, is able to start Sept. 5.

Zimpher had announced last year her plan to retire from the 64-campus system on June 30. The SUNY board of trustees, meanwhile, had planned to appoint an interim leader to oversee operations for the two months between her departure and Johnson's arrival.
A U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane Sunday after it dropped bombs near local ground forces supported by the United States, the first time the U.S. military has downed a Syrian aircraft since the start of the civil war in 2011, officials said.

The confrontation represents a further escalation between forces supporting President Bashar Assad of Syria and the United States, which has been directing the military campaign in Syria and Iraq against the Islamic State.

The American FA-18 shot down the Syrian government warplane south of the town of Tabqah, on the same day that Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps launched several midrange missiles from inside Iran at targets in Syria, hoping to punish Islamic State forces responsible for last week's terror attacks in Tehran.

The Guards Corp said it "targeted the headquarters and meeting place and suicide car assembly line" of "ISIS terrorists" in the province of Deir el-Zour, where Islamic State forces surround an estimated 200,000 people in a government-held section of the provincial capital of the same name.U.S. officials said there appeared to be no direct connection between the two events, but they underscored the complexity of a region in which Syria, Russia, Turkey, Iran, Israel and the United States with its allies have carried out air or missile strikes, albeit in pursuit of different and often competing objectives.

For the United States, the main focus has been battling the Islamic State, also known as ISIS or ISIL. This month Syrian Kurdish and Arab fighters, supported by U.S. advisers and air power, began the battle for Raqqa, the militants' self-declared capital.

Even before that battle is over, however, tensions have risen over control of eastern Syria as Iranian-backed militias, including the Lebanese group Hezbollah, have moved to extend their reach toward areas where the U.S.-based fighters are also operating.

Not only are forces loyal to Assad interested in controlling the oil-rich Deir el-Zour province and relieving the pressure on a Syrian military garrison that has been surrounded there, but the Iranian-backed Shiite fighters are widely believed to be trying to link up with Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and establish a supply corridor that runs from Syria to Iraq and, eventually, to Iran.

The confrontation in Syria on Sunday began around 4:30 p.m. local time when U.S.-backed ground Syrian fighters, who are officially called the Syrian Democratic Forces, came under attack by what the Pentagon described only as "pro-Syrian regime forces" and were forced from their positions in the town of Ja'Din, south of Tabqah. Several of the U.S.-supported fighters were wounded.

The United States had airlifted hundred of Syrian fighters and their U.S. military advisers near Tabqah in March in a generally successful push to cut off the western approaches to Raqqa.

To scare away the adversary forces, U.S. warplanes buzzed the pro-Assad troops in what the Pentagon called a "show of force." That appeared to put an end to the fighting and the Americans sought to defuse the situation by calling their Russian counterparts from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

But the Syrians were not finished. At 6:43 p.m., a Syrian SU-22 warplane dropped several bombs near the U.S.-backed fighters. Attempts to warn the Syrian plane away from the area using an emergency radio frequency failed, said Col. John J. Thomas, the spokesman for the U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East.

An FA-18 "Super Hornet," which was patrolling the area after launching from the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier, quickly shot down the Syrian plane. U.S. advisers were not in the immediate vicinity of the bombing by the Syrian SU-22.

A statement by the U.S.-led task force that is fighting the Islamic State stressed that it was taken under rules of engagement permitting the "collective self-defense" of its Syrian partners.

This month, an American F-15E shot down an Iranian-made drone after it attacked American fighters in southeastern Syria.

The United States has set up a garrison at al-Tanf in southeastern Syria, where Syrian fighters and U.S., British and Norwegian advisers have been based.

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The United States has warned pro-Assad forces to stay out of a "deconfliction" zone it has declared around the garrison. The town of Ja'Din is little more than a mile north of this deconfliction area, but the United States has made it clear that the Syrian fighters it supports and the U.S. and other allied advisers that accompany them are not limited to that buffer area.

After Sunday's episode, the U.S.-led task force said it was not seeking a confrontation with Assad or the Iranian, Russian or Shiite militias that are fighting to support the Syrian leader  but added that it would defend the Syrian fighters it has assembled to pursue the Islamic State.

"The coalition's mission is to defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria," the official statement said. "The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat."

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told Russian news agencies on Monday that the downing was akin to "helping the terrorists that the U.S. is fighting against."

Ryabkov asks: "What is this, if not an act of aggression?"

Iran offered official statements about its military actions, too, and a video of the launch of one of the missiles was posted by the semiofficial Fars News Agency.

The Guards Corps said the strike, sending missiles flying over neighboring Iraq into Syria, had been carried out in retaliation for the terrorist attacks this month on the Iranian Parliament building and the shrine of the founder of the Islamic Republic. Eighteen people died in those attacks and dozens were wounded. The Islamic State claimed responsibility.




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ALBANY -- A 46-year-old man was shot and killed at a Father's Day barbecue on Albany's South End Sunday.

Police said the man, who has not yet been identified, was shot after an altercation at the annual event on Clinton and Delaware streets. The barbecue was attended by dozens of friends and family, some of whom apparently came from across the country.

The investigation is still ongoing, said police, who declined to provide details about any potential suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call the Albany Police Detective Division at (518) 462-8039.

A person who said she was the victim's niece said a fight broke out between the victim's wife and another woman, after which a gun was pulled and her uncle, who was "shielding" his spouse, was shot.

"He lived by the code of marriage: 'till death do us part," said the woman, who said she arrived with food shortly after the incident and found her uncle laying on the ground.

Police said the victim was "in rough shape" when they arrived. He was pronounced dead shortly after.

Hours after the shooting, friends and family erected a makeshift memorial for the man, gathering in prayer around two candles, four black balloons and a red X spray painted on the concrete.

"He's a husband. He's a great father. He's a working man. He works for his living," the woman who said she was his niece said. "He's not a drug dealer. He's not a gangbanger. He's not a bully. He's none of that. He's a working man."

She and others said they were shocked to see the killing on their block, which has largely been spared by a spate of violence since November. After nine months without a homicide last year, Albany has seen seven slayings in eight months, with victims ranging in age from 1 to older than 60. All but one of the victims have been males.

"It's very sad," the woman said as police slowly dispersed from the street and friends wrapped up what was left of the Southern cuisine that had gone uneaten.

"It's really a gasp to everyone," she said. "For it to happen on this street  people don't do that. We don't have drama. We don't have problems. We don't go through that. It's all family."






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TROY  Three law enforcement agencies have agreed to fill the gaps in drug enforcement in the city while the police department's drug unit faces an internal affairs investigation, a city spokesman said Monday.

The city's six-member Firearms Interdiction and Narcotics Suppression unit was relieved of duty Thursday after one of its officers reported the unit had entered a residence without a warrant, various city sources confirmed Friday.

The Rensselaer County Sheriff's Office, the State Police and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will provide coverage until the insestigation is completed, said John Salka, a spokesman for Mayor Patrick Madden.

The deputies, troopers and federal agents often coordinate drug enforcement activities with Troy police. "We'll help them out however we can," Sheriff Patrick Russo said Monday.

"We have some ongoing investigations," Russo said. He added it's important to ensure public safety.

The State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team also is assisting the city, said Trooper Mark Cepiel, a spokesman for Troop G.

"CNET was asked to provide more of a presence by the police department," Cepiel said. "If there's a need for CNET service in Troy that will be done."

Both the sheriff's offices and the troopers conduct independent drug investigations in Troy as well as working with the city police. The city is Rensselaer County's most populous community and drug investigations starting elsewhere in the county often lead to activities based there.

The city police department is conducting its own internal affairs investigation of the alleged filing of a false burglary report to cover up the warrantless search. Sources said the drug unit was pursuing a tip provided by another police agency. The removal of the city drug unit from active duty when it was placed on paid administrative leave had many officials and residents concerned about what that would do in the area of drug crime enforcement.

Councilwoman Kim Ashe-McPherson said she was in contact with Madden's administration and Police Chief John Tedesco to express her concerns about enforcement issues during the internal affairs investigation. She said she was advised that steps were being taken to provide for continued enforcement.
Business has been busier than usual in recent weeks for Titletown Cheese.

The De Pere-based wholesaler and distributor was working the phones to find buyers for an abundant supply of assorted Wisconsin-made cheese. The additional cheese was coming from Wisconsin processors who took on extra milk supplied by dairy farmers dropped by Greenwood-based milk processor Grassland Dairy Products Inc., after it lost many of its Canadian customers.

Jerry Haines, president of Titletown Cheese, said after learning some of the processors he worked with would be making more cheese, he knew more calls would come.

Im the middle person who helps regulate inventory throughout the state, said Haines, who works with 40 cheese manufacturers, including 32 in Wisconsin. When people run extra milk or cheese, they call me to redistribute it throughout the country.

Haines efforts were assisted by a $2 million line of credit he received throught the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority. The additional money allowed his firm to acquire more cheese and distribute it around the country. He said the funds came quickly.

The program was very helpful, he said. The product was coming so fast, I was glad we were able to help out.

A spokesman for WHEDA said Haines company was the only business to apply under the program.

A look back

In early April, 67 dairy farmers were informed by Grassland Dairy Products Inc. that it would stop taking their milk after April 30 because it had lost its Canadian customers for ultra-filtered milk, a high-protein ingredient used in cheese production. That left more than 1 million pounds  roughly 100,000 gallons of milk  being produced daily with no place to go.

State government officials, dairy farmers and industry groups rallied and found processors around the state to absorb the excess milk. Nine of the affected farms was from Minnesota and all found a processor.

By May 1, 56 of the 58 affected Wisconsin dairy farms had secured new processors. About the two that didnt, Dan Smith, administrator for agricultural development with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, said one decided to leave the business and sold his 50 cows, while the other, who has 12 cows, remained undecided about her future.

Smith said the next step is for the dairy farmers to establish long-term deals with their new processors.

The processors have expressed a desire to keep the farmers they have picked up, Smith said. The farmers will be discussing options with processing field men over the next few months, (so) communication between processors and farmers as we move into summer will be critical to developing permanent agreements.

Before the dairy crisis hit, some processors across the state were working on facility upgrades, but were not ready to absorb the extra milk that suddenly became available, Smith said. There still is a lot of milk available across the state, but assorted dairy products are moving out of storage and selling at a good rate.

A few Wisconsin dairy plants are conducting modernization and expansion projects, so once they come on line, that will help too, Smith said. This means as more milk is processed, new product made can be moved to storage facilities that are being cleared.

Product development

Smith said new product development also is happening rapidly and the states dairy industry is responding.

Consumers have voiced a preference for grass-based dairy products and organic products, Smith said.

There also is a growing global demand for dairy protein and for byproducts such as whey, he said.

Items including yogurt dairy drinks, dairy-based energy drinks and snacks are growing in popularity, he said.

UW-Platteville is responding to shifting consumer food choices, too. The university just launched a new dairy science major, focused on agribusiness, calf and heifer production, dairy product analysis and processing.

UW-Platteville associate professor Tara Montgomery, who oversees the dairy science program, said her students have made yogurt, ice cream, butter and cheese. They also do taste testing of milk and alternative milk products.

A specialty ice cream, Dairymans Classic Cheesecake, developed by students for visiting members of the UW Board of Regents, was well received, Montgomery said.

We are trying to help consumers think outside the box when it comes to dairy products so that we maintain a high demand for milk and other dairy products, she said.

We are trying to help consumers think outside the box when it comes to dairy products so that we maintain a high demand for milk and other dairy products. Tara Montgomery, UW-Platteville associate professor
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ALBANY _ What started with tears ended with overjoyed hugs when Steve Kaminski, a security officer at Albany International Airport, spotted a glitter in a security bin at the passenger checkpoint.

That glint was a missing diamond that had come off an engagement ring whose distraught owner was crying nearby.

"I have never in my life been so panicked and upset in an airport, let along anywhere else in public before," said Kana Chi-Murenbeeld, a Fort Lauderdale, Fla., woman who was traveling from the airport June 4 with her husband, Steven, at the end of a weekend with friends.

She had just passed through the busy checkpoint when she noticed the gemstone was missing from her four-year-old engagement ring. After she broke down in tears, checkpoint Transportation Security Administration Supervisor Louetta "Rainy" Littman noticed and the search for the pear-shaped diamond was on.

Littman, Kaminski and three other officers, some on hands and knees, began looking, hoping that flashlights would help by catching a glitter from the stone. Meanwhile, the checkpoint still had to process its other passengers.

After about 10 minutes, Kaminski noticed a gray bin with a tissue left behind  and next to it sat the diamond.

"I just wanted to help her out," he said. "I know I would have been disappointed if I had lost a valuable item like that and nobody had helped me."

Chi-Murenbeeld said her anxiety instantly was replaced by "grateful elation ... I have traveled all around the world, and can say in all honesty that I have never met such an amazing team of workers in the airline or security industry."

Once located, the stone was taped to a piece of cardboard for safekeeping, and the relieved couple was able to continue their journey home.

She said the ring had a very special meaning to her since she had traveled to Dubai, with her husband, to have it designed and made. She's worn it ever since. On Monday, she was due to get the ring back, with the stone reset, from a local jeweler in Fort Lauderdale.

The other officers involved in the diamond hunt were Andrew Praga, Michael Bouck and Marta Havrylyshyn.

"I am always very proud of what the officers do every day in protecting the flying public, and this incident really stands out. It truly highlights the professionalism and compassion of a group of officers who genuinely went above and beyond the call of duty and I commend them for it," said TSA Upstate New York Federal Security Director Bart Johnson.

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STOCKBRIDGE, Mass.  On a December night in 1956, the studio of Sun Records in Memphis hosted a remarkable recording session with four of the icons of early rock 'n' roll.

Elvis Presley had already had a few hits and was being turned into a movie star, Carl Perkins was looking for a follow-up to his chart-topping "Blue Suede Shoes," Johnny Cash had unprecedented crossover appeal among country and rock fans, and a brash young keyboard-pounder from Louisiana wanted to make sure the other three  indeed, the whole world  understood that he, Jerry Lee Lewis, was the next big thing. And they were all together in the studio of the label that gave them their respective starts.

More Information Theater review "Million Dollar Quartet" When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Unicorn Theatre, Berkshire Theatre Group, 83 E. Main St., Stockbridge, Mass. Running time: 100 minutes, no intermission Continues: 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; matinees, 2 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday; additional matinee, 2 p.m. Sunday, July 2. Through July 15. Tickets: $65 Info: 413-997-4444 or http://berkshiretheatregroup.org See More Collapse

The actual events of that day and the songs they recorded aren't faithfully rendered in the jukebox musical they inspired, "Million Dollar Quartet," but this should matter little to most audiences. The show, co-authored by music historian Colin Escott and film producer Floyd Mutrux, is receiving a rousing production to open the 89th season of Berkshire Theatre Group. Jukebox musicals are often an excuse to trot out medleys and truncated versions of beloved tunes, some of which happens in "Million Dollar Quartet," but when the gang gets going, really tearing up the place, the production has the pulse-quickening, transporting thrill of a great concert.

Director and music director James Barry ably handles the script's many asides, flashbacks and biographical narratives, most delivered by Sun founder Sam Phillips (Ben Nordstrom). Though necessary to fill in specifics about lives and careers that audiences will know only in general, they need to be dealt with expeditiously, as Barry does, to get to the real reason we're there, the songs. There are 21 of them stuffed into a 100-minute, intermissionless running time, from the flash-bang of Lewis dong "Real Wild Child" to the stirring a-capella harmonies of "Down By the Riverside" and "Peace in the Valley."

The production's standout is Gabriel Aronson as Lewis. Diminutive of stature but with the puffed chest, riotous coif and libidinous zeal of a bantam rooster, Aronson's Lewis is also a musical powerhouse, whose aggressive playing seems sure to break both his piano and his fingers by the end of the production's run. (Even on opening night, after just a few preview performances, several fingers on his right hand were wrapped in protective tape.) Playing the lanky, laconic Perkins, Colin Summers isn't as obviously flashy, but his guitar work is outstanding, and Bill Sheets has the necessary gravity, in persona and bass voice, for Cash. In contrast, Brycen Katolinsky is at best adequate as Elvis, sounding like The King on only "Hound Dog"; he's got Elvis' preen and pout but not his soul. (Superb if largely thankless work gets done by Nathan Yates Douglass on upright bass and drummer David W. Lincoln.)

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The story proper has a satisfying ending, but I'm ambivalent about the end of the musical, which appends what amounts to a four-song coda. They're stellar and probably obligatory tunes, including "Riders in the Sky" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On," but they feel exactly like what they are, a greatest-hits encore, stuck on the end, not an organic part of the story.

sbarnes@timesunion.com  518-454-5489  @Tablehopping http://facebook.com/SteveBarnesFoodCritic
State lawmakers should not leave town this week without making a meaningful attempt to rein in the corruption that has plagued government in recent years.

We're not talking about some grand package of reforms; the moment for that kind of redemption was two years ago when the Legislature's two top leaders were indicted. But lawmakers could make a dent in the kind of corruption behind the latest scandal at the Capitol, in which aides to Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the president of SUNY Polytechnic Institute are accused in contract-fixing schemes.

The simple fix is this: Pass the Procurement Integrity Act and give the state comptroller authority to review all state contracts before they're finalized  a responsibility that was diminished in 2011  and bar SUNY nonprofits from being used to get around normal contract review. Gov. Andrew Cuomo may assert his administration can police itself and SUNY, but the fact is that New York has an independently elected comptroller for this very purpose  to be a watchful check on the government.

A Legislature that wants to show the public it is ready to clean up corruption needs to pass this legislation, and be prepared to override the governor's veto if necessary.

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There are plenty of other worthy bills out there, but these are among the more essential ones for the lawmakers to pass before they adjourn:

Voting rights: There's much New York could do on this front, but the short list includes early voting, no-excuse absentee ballots, and automatic voter registration when people turn 18.

Child sexual abuse: For all the laws passed on punishing future sexual abuse, lawmakers have yet to let untold numbers of victims of past abuse seek justice. Recognizing that victims sometimes take years to come forward, the Assembly has passed legislation to extend the statute of limitations on civil and criminal cases of child sex abuse. Mr. Cuomo backs a similar measure. Senate Republicans, however, have bowed to pressure, especially from the Catholic church. They need to hear the pleas of victims who simply want their day in court.

The LLC Loophole: The worst kept secret in politics is how wealthy people get around the legal limits on campaign contributions by funneling them through limited liability companies. The Assembly has passed a bill to close this loophole, but the Senate has refused year after year. After so many scandals related to groups that use this loophole to wield vast influence, it's hard to fathom how senators can so brazenly protect this corruption just to fill their campaign coffers.

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The Boss Bill: It's been long known women are paid less than men, and one way this persists is when employers base a new employee's pay on what they earned in their last job. This bill would bar employers from asking how much they were paid. It's a small but smart way to start closing the gender pay gap.

Kendra's Law: New York has had a sensible law on the books since 1999 that allows courts to order mentally ill people who present a danger to themselves or society to undergo treatment or face commitment. The law is up for renewal. It should remain in effect.

Alcohol in movie theaters: Theatrical venues like Albany's Palace Theatre have had no problem serving wine and beer. So why not movie theaters, so long as they don't start smelling like frat house basements?
THE ISSUE:

State senators take approach of getting tough on those who sell illegal drugs.

THE STAKES:

While easy and popular, it has been tried before, and it did not work.

More Information To comment: tuletters@timesunion.com or at http://blog.timesunion.com/opinion See More Collapse

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The Republicans who control the state Senate are taking a get-tough approach against those who sell and possess illegal drugs. Their populist proposals sound good to anyone frustrated by the continued opioid addiction crisis, but they risk undoing recent progress and misapplying limited resources.

Fourteen measures passed by the Senate last week include lowering the amounts of specific drugs for which possession or sale constitutes a felony, criminalizing kickbacks in the referral of a patient for addiction treatment and making it a class A felony for an adult to sell a controlled substance to a minor. The package also includes Laree's Law, named for Colonie resident Patty Farrell's daughter, who died of an overdose at age 18. Sen. George Amedore, R-Rotterdam, who sponsored the legislation, says it would make it easier to charge a supplier with homicide.

Who could disagree with clamping down on the illegal sale and distribution of drugs? The state's opioid-related deaths exceeded 3,000 in 2015, reflecting a 20 percent rise between 2014 and 2015. Such a crisis demands swift and bold action.

It plays well politically, too. After the Senate package was passed, a local newspaper headline proclaimed exactly the tough message sponsors want voters to hear: "Senate OKs stiffer penalties for heroin, opioid dealers."

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The trouble with this tactic is that it diffuses attention from the need to do more to treat those addicted, and it oversimplifies the problem by suggesting we can stop the opioid crisis if we just go after the drug dealers.

This rhetoric evokes the failed 1970s Rockefeller drug laws, a similar get-tough path New York took to combat the sale and possession of narcotics. New York had the toughest drug laws in the nation, all right, but that didn't solve the problem. What ensued was the costly incarceration of thousands of low-level, often first-time criminals whose lives, and often those of their families, were destroyed by harsh prison sentences.

Yes, we must go after those responsible for today's opioid crisis. But a smarter way is suggested by Schenectady County: Last week it joined eight other counties in suing manufacturers of prescription opiates, alleging they caused the epidemic through deceptive practices, including their failure to disclose the addictive properties of their drugs and the claim that addiction risk and withdrawal can be easily managed.

This puts the emphasis on correcting the flawed medical system that made painkillers so widely available. Too, it can help assure effective treatment for those addicted, assuming the funds from a successful lawsuit are committed to education and treatment programs.

Focusing on treatment is especially important now as the Trump administration and Congress move forward on plans to cut Medicaid, which covers a big part of drug addiction treatment.
This coming July, Artist Andrew Mottershead will ask owners, staff and customers of selected local Cashel shops to become involved in making the Shops Project art work and a public exhibition. Previously, this work has taken place in towns and cities across Europe, Brasil and China, and has been the subject of a publication and a major exhibition in Sheffield, UK.

Here is a quick overview of how the project works.

Staff provide customers with an invite to return and participate in a group photograph, with one of these events taking place outside each participating shop. At the appointed time the streets are cleared and passers-by held back, as returning customers are placed and posed, with the action recorded by a local photographer. The resulting photographs are then printed and framed, and then donated to the shop for permanent exhibition.

The Art lies in looking at society through the lens of local shops, and how the communities they form reflect the place and its people at that moment in time.

Andrew told Sean Laffey that it is often surprising the extent and complexity of the community that is associated with one shop.

For example when visiting a butchers shop he discovered that one lady bought the same thing on the same day each week. Who did she buy it for? Her dog. So the dog came along to the final photo shoot. The act of bringing the customers together on the day of the shoot visually shows the complex communities that radiate out from a shop.

As such, French and Mottershead are looking to work with 5 Cashel shops that speak more of a changing local culture, rather than the homogenised identity of High Street or chain stores.

Andre visited Noel Fahey. Daverns and AM Office Supplies. See pic below left.
Tributes were paid at last week's sitting of Nenagh Circuit Court to Sgt Tom Delee who has been a sergeant in Nenagh for the past 25 years.

Sgt Delee came to Nenagh in 1978, and, apart from two years serving in Swanlinbar and Templemore, spent his working life in the Nenagh District.

His role, which included looking after juries in the circuit court, will be taken over by Sgt Regina McCarthy from Nenagh Garda District.

For the past number of years, Sgt Delee has been responsible for looking after juries at the circuit court, and his work in helping jurors deal with court matters was praised by Judge Tom Teehan last Friday, Sgt Delee's last day in court.

Countless juries have reason to be grateful to him when they were cooped up in the jury room. He had a way with them and they responded to him, said Judge Teehan.

He said that, equally, he and his staff had their paths smoothed by Sgt Delee's deep knowledge of the process surrounding jury trials.

Judge Teehan said he was extremely grateful to Sgt Delee for his service over the years and described his retirement as an enormous loss, but, he said, Sgt Delee, after nearly 40 years in Nenagh had most certainly earned a long and happy retirement.

Tributes were also paid by district court judge Elizabeth MacGrath, who said her first recollection of Sgt Delee was in the district court, and, like many young solicitors at the time, she was in awe of him.

She described him as a man of complete courtesy, calm and easygoing, and he applied that courtesy to everybody, no matter what their background.

Judge MacGrath said Sgt Delee, like many in public service, had given committed service to the State.

Insp Seamus Maher, on behalf of the Gardai, said that Sgt Delee had made sure young Gardai got the support they needed when they started.

While Sgt Delee enjoyed working with the court, Insp Maher singled out his work with the elderly for special mention, saying it was second to none.

From a Garda point, he said: Little goes on in Nenagh that you don't know about.

On behalf of the bar, Frank Quirke, JC, said, at court, Sgt Delee had always been a friendly face and treated everybody kindly.

Solicitor Liz McKeever paid tribute to Sgt Delee on behalf of the profession and wished him well in his retirement, while Ger Connolly of the Courts Service said that Sgt Delee had always been supportive of him and his colleagues and was always a great help in dealing with juries.

He was the friendly face for each juror, said Mr Connolly.

Ronan Dodd, on behalf of the local media, thanked Sgt Delee for his courtesy and assistance towards of media over the years.

In response, Sgt Sgt thanked everybody for their kind words and said he had enjoyed his time in the circuit court.

Reflecting on his philosophy in life, he said: If you treated people nice, they were nice to you.

He wished Sgt Regina McCarthy all the best as she takes over his role officially from this week.
This week is COPD Awareness Week, and the Irish Pharmacy Union and COPD Support Ireland launched a campaign to offer advice and support to the half a million Irish people living with COPD and to raise awareness to help people spot the symptoms and seek early treatment.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a collective name for two main lung conditions (emphysema and chronic bronchitis) that make it hard for sufferers to breathe due to obstruction in the air passages of their lung. COPD is the most common cause of emergency admissions in Ireland, with 15,000 patients admitted annually. Numbers with the disease are increasing and many patients are not yet diagnosed. It is the fourth most common cause of death in Ireland after lung cancer, heart disease and stroke.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign Daragh Connolly, community pharmacist and IPU President said, At present there is no cure for COPD. However, there are things you can do to make it easier to live with COPD and to slow down the progress of the disease. Pharmacists have a vital role to play in this regard and are important in identifying undiagnosed COPD in a patient. People who are regularly looking for over-the-counter cough remedies should be advised to seek further investigation.

We also know that the earlier you seek help, the more effective the treatments will be. Most importantly, if you think you have some of the symptoms of COPD and you smoke, you must try to stop immediately. Call into your local pharmacist for help and support.

Mr Connolly also advised people with COPD to become aware of what triggers make their condition worse. Your pharmacist can help you to better understand your disease and manage it so that you can avoid hospitalisation.

Alongside smoking cessation, some treatments for COPD include:



Inhalers: There are various types and devices available. Depending on the medication inside the inhaler, these will help make breathing easier by opening up the airways and treating flare-ups.



Exercise: One of the most important treatments is exercise. Ask your healthcare professional about pulmonary rehabilitation and an exercise programme.



Corticosteroids: These can be given to soothe the inflammation in your lungs and help you breathe easier.



Antibiotics: COPD may make you more vulnerable to infection. Bacteria causing the infection can cause exacerbations. Antibiotics will help to eliminate the bacteria.



Flu Vaccine: COPD can make you more vulnerable to infections like the flu and pneumonia. Seasonal vaccinations help prevent infections.

Damien Peelo, Executive Director of COPD Support Ireland, said: COPD Support Ireland is delighted to be working in collaboration with the Irish Pharmacy Union on COPD Awareness Week. COPD continues to be a major health issue in Ireland with an estimated 200,000 people diagnosed with COPD. Already, we have the highest rate of hospitalisation for COPD in a survey of 31 countries in the OECD. There are many more undiagnosed people, up to 300,000 in the community, who also need appropriate treatment and care. We should be managing this illness much better in primary care. The local pharmacy plays a vital role in the management of COPD and could potentially have an even greater role in identifying those who have the symptoms of COPD but are as yet undiagnosed. The pharmacist provides a trusted source of information and based in the heart of our communities they provide a very accessible service to people living with COPD.

If you answer yes to four or more of the following questions you should ask your Pharmacist about COPD:

1. Do you cough several times every day, most days of the week?

2. Have you been coughing like this for more than three months?

3. Do you cough up mucus (phlegm) most days?

4. Do you get breathless from physical activity or moderate exercise?

5. Are you a smoker or former smoker? Smokers are at the biggest risk of COPD

6. Do you live in or work at places with a lot of pollution, fumes, dust, or smoke?

7. Is there a family history of lung conditions?

8. Are you over the age of 35?

You can learn more about COPD at www.saveyourbreath.ie
Three cities will now be served from July 24th making Waterford Airport very attractive for visitors to Manchester, London and Birmingham by the new airline Aer Southeast.

Waterford Airport today announced the resumption of scheduled services to three cities in the UK beginning on Monday, July 24 with an inaugural service to London Luton at 7.15am.

The services to London Luton, Manchester and Birmingham will be operated by a new airline, Aer Southeast, an Irish aviation start-up with registered offices at Waterford Airport, who have very considerable experience in regional aviation and the backing of Irish and Scandinavian investors. The service will use a Saab 340 aircraft that will be based at Waterford Airport.

Bookings can be made for London Luton via the Waterford Airport website,www.flywaterford.com as well as the direct link www.aersoutheast.com, from 9am tomorrow (Tuesday, June 20). Bookings for Manchester and Birmingham on the Aer Southeast website will be available in the coming days and this will be communicated through the Airports website and social media accounts.

Aer Southeast will operate:

Six flights a week to London Luton with operating days and departure times from

Waterford as follows:



Monday Depart at 07h15 Arrive at 08h45

Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday Depart at 09h30 Arrive at 11h00

Friday and Sunday Depart at 17h00 Arrive at 18h30

Three flights a week to Manchester, with operating days and departing times from

Waterford as follows:

Wednesday Depart at 14h00 Arrive at 15h15

Friday and Sunday Depart at 13h00 Arrive at 14h15



Three flights a week to Birmingham, with operating days and departing times from

Waterford Airport as follows:

Monday Depart at 13h00 Arrive at 14h15

Tuesday and Thursday Depart at 14h00 Arrive at 15h15



These scheduled services will provide people with a wide range of travel options through the whole week, and offer numerous possibilities for onward air travel from any of these UK airports.

A full list of both outgoing and returning flight times is available on the Airports website.

Ticket prices to all destinations will start from 79 one-way.

Welcoming the announcement, Desmond O'Flynn, CEO, Waterford Airport, said: I am delighted that Aer Southeast will resume three scheduled air services to the UK, all of which have proved their worth and their vital importance to the South East over many years.

He continued: I am also very pleased to welcome this Scandinavian consortium to Waterford.

We have had detailed discussions with a number of parties since the loss of scheduled services in June last year, but we were very impressed with the aviation experience of the consortium and

their commitment to this project. We look forward to working closely with SkyTruckers [the company behind Aer Southeast], as once again regular and sustainable air links to key cities in the UK are operated over the coming months and years.
Madison School District celebrates its first class of graduates to earn state's new Seal of Biliteracy
Verint (News - Alert) Systems Inc. is the top workforce optimization solution provider in the back office/branch sector based on sales. And the back office market is now significantly larger than the WFO market related to contact centers.





All this is according to a new report from DMG Consulting LLC.

The new 2017 Contact Center Workforce Optimization Market Share Report puts Verints WFO share in the back office/branch sector market at 62 percent. And the report says that the U.S. back office market has more than 2.5 times the number of employees than the front office.

This represents a shift for WFO solutions, says DMG Consulting President Donna Fluss, as for the past three decades the primary market for such solutions was in the contact center. She also indicates that employee engagement has become more important as millennials have come to dominate the workforce.

[E]mployee engagement is now more than just a buzzword, says Fluss. Private and public institutions and companies are investing to improve employee engagement, a challenge that WFO applications are well suited to address.

Verint, a BPA Quality partner, also remains a global WFO market share leader in the contact center arena. DMG Consulting this month noted that in its 2017 Contact Center Workforce Optimization Market Share Report.

The report recognized Verint for its leadership in the total company GAAP revenue and market share for all WFO categories, WFO and recording solutions, quality assurance and quality management, total voice recording, non-contact center recording, and total workforce management.

The study also called Verint the leader in the cloud-based WFO space, where the company experienced 25 percent year-over-year growth. And the report said that Verint dominates WFO in Europe, the Asia Pacific, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.

Verint also provides customer engagement solutions.

We offer organizations a comprehensive Customer Engagement Optimization solution that includes customer analytics, engagement management, and enterprise workforce optimization capabilities, all from a single provider, Nancy Treaster, Verints general manager of strategic operations for enterprise intelligence solutions, told CUSTOMER magazine last year. As organizations take a more strategic approach to customer service and sales, we believe that they will be better positioned to gain competitive advantage, build more meaningful customer and employee engagement, heighten loyalty, reduce operating costs, and increase revenue.

Edited by Alicia Young
[June 19, 2017] Vivint Smart Home Named TMA Monitoring Center of the Year for 2017

Vivint Smart Home, the leading smart home services provider in North America, today announced that it received The Monitoring Association's (TMA) Monitoring Center of the Year award for 2017. Vivint's state-of-the-art central monitoring centers in Provo, Utah, and Eagan, Minnesota, provide 24/7 professional monitoring to more than 1.2 million Vivint customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619005232/en/ TMA Monitoring Center Excellence Awards (Photo: Business Wire) The award recognizes consistent excellence from the Vivint monitoring team, which first won this award in 2012. Vivint's monitoring centers lso have the TMA Five Diamond Monitoring Center designation for commitment to the highest levels of customer service.



"Our monitoring team delivers a world-class security experience, in conjunction with our state-of-the-art smart home solutions that delight our customers every day," said Steve Dixon, senior vice president of customer experience and operations at Vivint Smart Home. "We're thrilled to be recognized by the profession's leading trade association, TMA, for the work we do to keep our customers' homes and families safe and secure." The TMA Central Station Excellence Awards recognize any FM Approvals, Intertek (News - Alert)/ETL or UL-listed monitoring center (TMA members and non-members) and outstanding personnel who perform in the highest professional manner, thereby making a significant contribution to the betterment of the alarm industry and the alarm profession while demonstrating exceptional service to their customers and community.

The winners of the TMA Monitoring Center Excellence Awards were announced Tuesday evening, June 13, at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee, during the annual Electronic Security Expo (ESX). About Vivint Smart Home Vivint Smart Home is the leading provider of smart home services in North America. Vivint delivers an integrated smart home system with in-home consultation, professional installation and support delivered by its Smart Home Pros, as well as 24/7 customer care and monitoring. Dedicated to redefining the home experience with intelligent products and services, Vivint serves more than one million customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit www.vivint.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619005232/en/

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[June 18, 2017]

Inside 3D Printing Seoul opens up the New Era of Digital Manufacturing

NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/-- KINTEX holds the 4th annual Inside 3D Printing Conference & Expo with Rising Media on June 28-30, 2017 in Seoul, South Korea. Inside 3D Printing returns to Seoul with an unprecedented event scale of 73 exhibitors and sponsors in 210 booths, with an expected attendance of +9,000 visitors from 25 countries.

Inside 3D Printing is the largest 3D printing event series worldwide, having hosted 38 events globally since its launch in 2013 in New York City. The theme for this year's event is 'The New Era of Digital Manufacturing'.

The exhibition will include global companies including: EOS, 3D Systems, Makerbot, DWS, Aurora Labs as well as well-known Korean exhibitors. On display will be 3D printers, 3D scanners, CNC milling machine, CAD/CAM/CAE software, metrology, reverse engineering, post processing, 3D printed products and materials. The exhibition will be held at KINTEX 2, South Korea.

Visitors can experience the various applications of 3D printing in real life such as having their feet scanned and order custom 3D printed shoes to their exact size that will arrive in 24 hours by All About Wear.

The event alsoincludes a two day conference on 28-29 June with world-renowned keynote speakers: Omer Kreiger, President, Stratasys APAC & Japan, Terry Wohlers, Principal Consultant, Wohlers Associates; Kevin McAlea, Executive Vice President, 3D Systems and Tyler Benster, General Partner, Asimov Ventures.







In addition, we will have 35 industry experts speaking from Autodesk, Stratasys, EOS, Arcam, Materialise, Dassault Systemes and many more. The conference will focus on the hottest topics in 3D printing including manufacturing, metal, business, investments and aerospace/automotive industry.

Inside 3D Printing will be co-located with Robo Universe, Virtual Reality Summit and International LED/OLED Expo. Expo Pass holders of Inside 3D Printing Conference & Expo can access to exhibit hall of concurrent events without extra charges.

To attend, please register before the event to take full advantage of pre-registration discounts of up to 20% at inside3dprinting.com/seoul. For enquiries, please contact Inside 3D Printing Secretariat ([email protected]) or visit the official website (www.inside3dprinting.com/seoul).

About Rising Media

Rising Media is a global events and media producer excelling in Internet and technology-related events and content. Events include Inside 3D Printing, RoboUniverse, Virtual Reality Summit, Data Driven Business, Building Business Capability, Predictive Analytics World, Text Analytics World, eMetrics Summit, Conversion Conference, AllFacebook Marketing Conference, Search Marketing Expo, Affiliate Management Days, Influencer Marketing Days, Future of Immersive Leisure, Global Online Classifieds Summit, and Web Effectiveness Conference in the USA, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, India, China, Korea, Singapore, Australia, Brazil.

For more information, please visit http://www.risingmedia.com.

For more information, please contact:



Christoph Rowen

+852 9190 4412

[email protected]

Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20170616/1878023-1

SOURCE Rising Media
[June 18, 2017] World Thought-Leaders Gather at 2017 Hello Tomorrow Korea x Asian Leadership Conference, Seoul

SEOUL, South Korea, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Hello Tomorrow Korea (HTK) is launching its inaugural conference at the Grand Walkerhill Hotel Seoul on July 3rd - 4th, in partnership with the 8th annual Asian Leadership Conference (ALC). The joint conference will gather over 130 speakers and 2,000 participants comprising top policymakers, leaders and entrepreneurs from the business, technology and science sectors to discover innovative solutions for today's global challenges with the goal of building a better tomorrow. This year's HTK theme "Convergence of Technologies" aims to explore interdisciplinary convergence within the areas of IoT, VR, AR, AI, HI, Robotics, Nano Tech Health-Tech, Industry 4.0, and Sustainable Technologies. In conjunction with the ALC's theme of "New Leadership in the Era of Hyper-Uncertainty: Towards Cooperation and Prosperity", the international conference aims to galvanize one of the most powerful and influential change-making platforms in the world. Keynote speakers at the HTK x ALC 2017 include: Barack Obama , Former President of the United States will , Former President ofwill speak at the ALC

David Cameron , Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom will speak at the , Former Prime Minister of thewill speak at the ALC

Yasuo Fukuda , Former Prime Minister of Japan

HRH Prince Fahad al Saud , Founder & CEO of NA3AM

Bas Lansdorp , CEO of Mars One

Bibop Gresta, Founder and Chairman of the Board of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies

H.E. Khalfan Belhoul CEO of Dubai Future Ventures and Dubai Future Accelerators

Mike Butcher , Editor At Large at TechCrunch Full list of speakers available at: http://hellotomorrow.kr/#speakers The conference will also feature the top 10 finalists of the HTK Startup Challenge, South Korea's first dedicated deep-tech competition that highlights, empowers and connects the most promising startups in the country and serves as a fast-track to enter the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit in Paris. The winner of the HTK Startup Challenge will be awarded a $50,000 Rapid Technology Commercialisation Workshop and travel package to Paris as a Grand Prize, provided by Cambridge Consultants from the UK, a world-renowned technology consultancy. Participants can register for HTK x ALC 2017 Conference via: http://onoffmix.com/event/102423. On-location / door registration is not available.







Hello Tomorrow Korea Hello Tomorrow Korea Media Relations https://www.facebook.com/HelloTomorrowKorea/ KST (Korea Standard Time) @HelloTomorrowKR Tel: +82-2-375-4620 Hello Tomorrow Korea Email : [email protected]

MEDIA ROOM Google Drive Download: http://v.ht/Drive_Press-Release-Media-Assets_16June2017

Dropbox Download: http://v.ht/Dropbox_Press-Release-Media-Assets_16June2017

Youtube Conference Film: https://youtu.be/nPnK5wPBNNA SOURCE Hello Tomorrow Korea

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[June 19, 2017] 50 of the Most Innovative Nordic Companies - These are the Finalists in Serendipity Challenge 2017

STOCKHOLM, June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The 50 companies competing in the Nordic entrepreneurship competition Serendipity Challenge are now official. Two of them will be awarded the title "Startup Company of the Year" or "Growth Company of the Year". Serendipity Challenge brings together some of the Nordic region's most innovative companies from various industries such as medtech, e-health, cleantech, VR, IoT, robotics, fintech, logistics and many more (see link).

(Photo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/524738/Serendipity_Challenge_2017_Finalists.jpg )

"This year's lineup is the strongest and broadest to date. Every company has either good potential or are well on their way to revolutionize their industry. Several of them have already received international traction which says something about the spirit of innovation in the Nordics," says Omid Ekhlasi, founder and head of Serendipity Challenge. The competition targets startup and growth companies based on unique innovations or business concepts with the potential to establish themselves on a global market. The companies have been evaluated by an expert jury, which has focused on scalability and well-defined growth opportunities. The 2017 edition of Serendipity Challenge is the first time the competition is open to companies from all Nordic countries, resulting in nearly 400 entries in total. "The finals will showcase unique and ground-breaking products and services that create consumer behaviours as well as societal and economic value. What's striking this year is the large number of companies with intelligent and connected products, wich through, gathering , processing and analysing extensive data, will change our everyday lives for the better," says Omid Ekhlasi.



The Finals in Almedalen/Visby Out of the 50 companies that have qualified for the finals, 24 will be pitching in front of the jury in Almedalen. The 7 best get the chance to pitch their business idea from the big public stage and compete for the "Startup Company of the Year" and "Growth Company of the Year" awards. The winners in each category receive a growth package worth SEK 200,000 and a seat on the winner delegation trip to Silicon Valley.

Tech arena and exhibition All 50 companies are represented on site in Almedalen and will also be part of a tech exhibition, where visitors have the possibility to vote for the company they want to award with the "Prize of the Audience." In connection to this, seminars will be held on the theme "From Startup to Unicorn". Link to the competing companies: theserendipitychallenge.se/bolagen-2017 The 24 companies competing for the titles "Startup Company of the Year" and "Growth Company of the Year" are marked with a trophy. Images for media: http://bit.ly/2sxksif Photographer: Tommy Fondelius About the competition Serendipity Challenge is an entrepreneurship competition for startup and growth companies. It is a joint venture, organized by Serendipity and Industrin tar Matchen (ITM). A jury chooses 50 companies among the hundreds of applications received, which proceeds to the finals in Almedalen, Visby 3-5 July. The jury is chaired by Saeid Esmaeilzadeh, founder and chairman of Serendipity Group and the jury members are renowned investors, entrepreneurs and innovation experts. Serendipity Challenge is open to all Nordic companies regardless business sectors. The final takes place at "Industriomradet" address: Sankt Hansgatan/Trappgrand, Visby on Tuesday, July 4th. www.serendipitychallenge.se About Industrin tar matchen Industrin tar matchen is a joint initiative by thirteen Swedish industry organizations; its mission is to clearly communicate the importance of business and industry for Sweden's prosperity. www.industrintarmatchen.se About Serendipity Serendipity is "House of Technologies - Home of Entrepreneurs." It was founded in 2004 with focus on building innovative companies based on scientific discoveries. It's portfolio contains listed and privately held firms that operate within advanced material, animal health, bio technology, clean technology, and medical technology. www.serendipity.se

For more information, please contact:

Camilla Wallin

Press & Communication

+46-(0)-709-58-11-08

[email protected] Omid Ekhlasi

Founder

Serendipity Challenge

+46-(0)-735-25-25-09

[email protected]





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[June 19, 2017] Billaway Teams with BBM Messenger to Launch BBM Rewards in Canada

iOS and Android BBM Messenger Users Can Earn Gift Cards by Participating in Surveys, Entering Sweepstakes, Getting Quotes and Redeeming Money-saving Offers at Major Canadian Retailers NEW YORK, June 19, 2017 /CNW/ -- Billaway, a U.S. based marketing technology company that enables mobile phone consumers the ability to earn rewards, today launches BBM Rewards with Creative Media Works, which operates as BBM Messenger, for consumers across Android and iOS platforms in Canada. BBM Messenger users can now earn gift cards via BBM Rewards when they engage in surveys and other activities using Billaway's cloud-based marketing platform, and redeem at major Canadian retailers*. Users can access a range of different gift cards, for businesses like department stores, sporting outlets, pharmacies, supermarkets, gas stations and more by clicking 'Rewards' in the Discover menu within BBM Messenger. The technology used for this service relies on Billaway's marketing platform, which can be integrated seamlessly into any mobile application. Since launching in South Africa two months ago, BBM Rewards has provided thousands of dollars of credit to participants. "Everybody is always looking to cut costs where they can," says Paul Harkins, CEO of Billaway. "BBM Rewards provides an incentive to consumers for sharing their opinions. It's all about saving money at the end of the day and doing something fun like taking surveys is an easy, cost free way to do this." The survey responses gathered on BBM Rewards are also helping brands better connect with consumers, enabling them to conduct market research with a highly responsive user base. With millions of BBM users worldwide, brands that are launching new products and services will be able to gather audience insight that will better their customer experiences and ultimately, provide consumers with the products or services that they want. BBM is one of the largest mobile messaging applications. In addition to offering free voice and video calls, BBM also allows users to send pictures, audio recordings, files, share real-time location on a map, as well s a wide selection of stickers. Since it was created in August 2005, BBM has evolved from a pure messaging application for communication (text and video) to a social eco-system unifying chat, social, commerce and services.



"At BBM, we continue to innovate and evolve our content and services, including the likes of bill payments, top-up, vouchers/coupons, news, video, career, polls, shopping, travel, games and comics," says said Matthew Talbot, CEO of Creative Media Works, the company which operates and runs BBM globally. "We're providing our users with an enriched experience within BBM, giving them more compelling reasons to spend more time within the app, and share BBM with their friends and family." BBM Rewards is also available in the United States and South Africa, with further expansion to countries such as Malaysia, Nigeria, Singapore and the United Kingdom in the coming weeks.

*BBM is available on the App Store and Google Play for free download. *Notes to Editors

For a full list of gift cards available, visit http://cabbm.billaway.com About BBM

On 27 June 2016, Creative Media Works, a division of PT Elang Mahkota Teknologi Tbk. (Emtek, IDX: EMTK) - one of Indonesia's largest media, content and technology businesses - announced a long term strategic alliance with BlackBerry Limited to accelerate consumer BBM's research and development in offering new and exciting features, services and content to the global consumer market. As part of this strategy, BBM is making its APIs available to expedite the growth of partners and consumer services such as: Content  music and video streaming, games, sports, news, celebrity blogs, horoscopes and more

Commerce  shopping, gifting and coupons/vouchers

Online to Offline Commerce  booking movies, travel, health services, real-estate or job postings

Finance  P2P payments, money transfer, mobile phone re-charge, and utilities billing Creative Media Works now operates under the BBM banner as a stand-alone consumer focused business with teams operating from Waterloo, Mississauga, Ottawa, Singapore, Jakarta, UAE and South Africa. For more information, visit www.bbm.com. Trademarks, including but not limited to BBM and BBM Design are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, used under license, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved.

Android is a trademark of Google Inc.

iOS is a registered trademark of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and certain other countries. iOS is used under license by Apple Inc.

Windows Windows is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries About Billaway

Billaway is a cloud-based marketing technology platform that seamlessly enables the conversion of global currencies, earned by consumers through their everyday activities, directly into free mobile airtime and/or free mobile data. Billaway's turn-key integration connects mobile operators with advertisers and brands. This creates a more meaningful relationship with their customers. It also enables the consumer to save more on their bills without being exposed to offers, which have no relevance in their lives. The company is based in New York City and operates in multiple countries. For more information, go to www.billawayglobal.com To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/billaway-teams-with-bbm-messenger-to-launch-bbm-rewards-in-canada-300475818.html SOURCE Billaway

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Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP Commences Investigation on Behalf of CenturyLink, Inc. Investors

Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces an investigation on behalf of CenturyLink (News - Alert), Inc. ("CenturyLink" or the "Company") (NYSE: CTL) investors concerning the Company and its officers' possible violations of federal securities laws. To obtain information or aid in the investigation, please visit the CenturyLink investigation page on our website at www.glancylaw.com/case/centurylink-inc.







On June 16, 2017, Bloomberg (News - Alert) reported that a former CenturyLink employee claimed she was fired for blowing the whistle on the Company's high-pressure sales culture that allegedly left customers paying millions of dollars for accounts they didn't request.

On this news, the Company's stock price fell more than 4.5% on June 16, 2017, thereby injuring investors.

If you purchased CenturyLink securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006001/en/
[June 19, 2017] Bread for the World Welcomes Michele Sumilas As New Managing Director

Bread for the World welcomes Michele Sumilas today as its new managing director. Sumilas succeeds Alice Walker Duff, who announced last year that she would retire in June 2017. "Michele's experience and lifelong commitment to ending hunger and poverty make her the ideal candidate to guide Bread forward during these uncertain times of budget cuts and crisis in our nation," said Rev. David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World. "We are ecstatic that Michele is joining Bread for the World. We look forward to working with her to improve the lives of people living in hunger and poverty." Sumilas has extensive, successful experience as a manager. For the past six years, she worked at the US Agency for International Development (USAID), including as chief of staff. While at USAID, Sumilas played a key role in the U.S. response to the Ebola crisis. USAID is a 10000-person government agency with 13 bureaus in Washington, D.C., and 75 missions around the world.



Sumilas previously served on the House of Representatives' appropriations subcommittee on state and foreign operations, where she oversaw the U.S. government's development policy and budget. Prior to serving in government, Sumilas worked at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where she led a global health advocacy portfolio. She also served as the director of government relations for the Global Health Council. "I am excited to be joining Bread for the World in its mission to end hunger and poverty, both in the U.S. and around the world," Sumilas said. "I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of people living in hunger and poverty, and I look forward to continue this calling with such an exceptional group of people."

Walker Duff is returning to her home in Los Angeles, California, where she looks forward to spending time with her friends and family and joining local teams of Bread advocates. "Working with the wonderful members and staff of Bread for the World has been a highlight in my professional career," Walker Duff said. "I have been able to put my faith into action and witness powerful results - and for that opportunity, I am thankful to God and Bread for the World." View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006006/en/

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[June 19, 2017] Systems Engineering Group (SEG) Named A Top Workplace By The Washington Post

FARMINGDALE, N.Y., June 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Telephonics Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Griffon Corporation (NYSE: GFF), announced today that its subsidiary, Systems Engineering Group (SEG) was honored as a 2017 "Top Workplace" in the D.C. area by The Washington Post. SEG provides sophisticated technical, physics-based analysis and engineering support to the U.S. Armed Services, specializing in characterizing and helping counter the effects of advanced threat missiles to U.S. defensive systems. SEG currently employs 110 highly-skilled personnel in Columbia, MD, two thirds of which hold advanced degrees concentrated in the fields of aerospace, mechanical and electrical engineering, math and physics. SEG is one of 150 companies selected from more than 3,000 applicants to be recognized by the news outlet, evaluated on criteria including effectiveness of management, employee satisfaction, support of the local community and company values. In existence for 26 years, SEG has recently experienced growth and is expanding both its workforce and infrastructure in anticipation of this trend continuing. "SEG is thrilled to be recognized for our technical work and unique culture. Our three-fold mission to apply intelligence, passion and integrity to our work, both in the defense industry and with our community partners, guides all we do. We are proud of our accomplishments to date and look forward to continued success and growth," said Mike Anderson, Telephonics Vice President SEG General Manager. SEG is also pleased to collaborate with local universities, including the University of Maryland, to provide internships and job recruitment upon graduation. SEG employees are also involved within the community at the local high school level, supporting STEM-related educational opportunities, including JROTC and robotics programs. "SEG is a company built on knowledge; harnessing collective intelligence and applying it to create sophisticated radar and missile system design solutions for the U.S. Armed Services as well as systems-level engineering. Every member of the SEG staff is critical to its success and this honor was truly won by each of them," said Kevin McSweeney, President of Telephonics. For more information about SEG, Telephonics and their technologies, please contact Lisa Ahrens at [email protected] or visit www.telephonics.com. About Telephonics

Telephonics, founded in 1933, is recognized globally as a leading provider of highly sophisticated intelligence, surveillance and communications solutions that are deployed across a wide range of land, sea and air applications. Telephonics designs, develops, manufactures and provides logistical support and lifecycle sustainment services to defense, aerospace and commercial customers worldwide. Visit us at www.telephonics.com or on our social media channels:

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

LinkedIn

Google+ About Griffon Corporation

Griffon Corporation, founded in 1959 and headquartered in New York, N.Y., is a diversified management and holding company that conducts business through wholly-owned subsidiaries. The Company oversees the operations of its subsidiaries, allocates resources among them and manages their capital structures. Griffon provides direction and assistance to its subsidiaries in connection with acquisition and growth opportunities as well as in connection with divestitures. In order to further diversify, Griffon also seeks out, evaluates and, when appropriate, will acquire additional businesses that offer potentially attractive returns on capital. Forward-Looking Statements

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Certain statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of the company's management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the company's management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Information concerning risks and uncertainties that may impact the company's results and forward-looking statements are set forth in Griffon Corporation's filings with the SEC. The company does not undertake to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.  2017 Telephonics Corporation. 815 Broad Hollow Road, Farmingdale, NY 11735. All trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies.







Investor Contact: Company Contact:



Michael Callahan Lisa Ahrens ICR, Inc. Telephonics Corporation 203.682.8311 631.755.7785 [email protected] [email protected]

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/systems-engineering-group-seg-named-a-top-workplace-by-the-washington-post-300475951.html SOURCE Telephonics Corporation

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[June 19, 2017] Aero Montreal signs an agreement with SAFE Cluster, the competitiveness hub for security and aerospace players

LE BOURGET, France, June 19, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - Aero Montreal, the Quebec aerospace cluster, today signed a collaboration agreement with SAFE Cluster, the competitiveness cluster in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region for security and aerospace players, during the Paris International Air and Space Show - Le Bourget. This agreement aims to reiterate the agreement signed with the Pegase cluster at the Farnborough Airshow in July 2012. SAFE Cluster is the competitiveness cluster resulting from the merger of the Pegase and Risks clusters. It focuses on aeronautics, industrial and natural risk management, and the use of aeronautical methods and techniques for security solutions. "Developing agreements with other aerospace industry clusters is very important to contribute to the development of our companies," says Suzanne M. Benoit, President of Aero Montreal. "This signature comes at a time of considerable international competition. It clearly demonstrates Quebec's strong positioning in the global aerospace industry and the reputation of our cluster. The supply chains that make up the Aero Montreal cluster and SAFE Cluster are complementary and composed of mature and well-established companies. It is therefore quite natural that our two organizations are coming closer together. We also encourage our Quebec SMEs to be involved in the defence and security sector, which brings together a strong concentration of players within the SAFE cluster ".



"One of the priorities of SAFE Cluster is to encourage its member companies to become players in international competitions," says Michel Fiat, President, SAFE Cluster. "It is therefore vital to establish links with a recognized organization such as Aero Montreal, to develop opportunities, build on synergies, create valuable introductions, and reduce the time needed to adapt to and access markets. This partnership is therefore welcome because it is full of promising opportunities." The agreement includes joint participation in events organized by the two clusters, facilitating B2B meetings between companies in the two regions, and developing collaborative initiatives based on research and development. The objective is to enable SMEs in both regions to expand their markets and facilitate their business development.

About Aero Montreal Created in 2006, Aero Montreal is a strategic think tank that groups all major decision makers in Quebec's aerospace sector, including companies, educational and research institutions, as well as associations and unions. Aero Montreal's mission is to engage Quebec's aerospace cluster with a view to increasing its growth and expansion on the global scene. Its vision is to become a benchmark in global aerospace. To this end, it champions the following values: excellence, engagement, collaboration, versatility and innovation. SOURCE Aero Montreal

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Rep. Dale Kooyenga, R-Brookfield, says he will fight against any changes to Wisconsin's alcohol statutes that limit the way wineries, distilleries and breweries do business.
[June 19, 2017] LegalShield Celebrates 45th Anniversary; Reaffirms Commitment to Business in Oklahoma and Partners for Success with Attorney General Mike Hunter

LegalShield, one of North America's leading providers of affordable legal plans and identity theft solutions for individuals, families and small businesses, hosted a meet-and-greet event on Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at the company's headquarters to kick off the celebration of its 45th year of business. In doing so, LegalShield once again brought the community together and shared its vision for success and commitment to doing business in Oklahoma. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006250/en/ LegalShield honored Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, shown here with LegalShield CEO Jeff Bell, at a community event at the company's headquarters in Ada (Photo: Business Wire) "We are absolutely honored today to host this event that celebrates LegalShield's partnership with an outstanding leader in Oklahoma, Attorney General Mike Hunter," said Jeff Bell, LegalShield's CEO. "At LegalShield, we are vigilant in our efforts to help citizens across North America achieve equal justice under the law and we're thrilled that General Hunter has the same vision." LegalShield honored Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter, who serves as the state's chief lega enforcement officer and as such, works relentlessly to protect consumers from fraud. Hunter reaffirmed his pledge to vigorously defend customers' rights and encourage small business growth.



"Harland C. Stonecipher was a true visionary," said Hunter. "It's amazing to see how this company started and where Jeff has taken it. What you're selling is peace of mind. Being in business 45 years doesn't happen by accident. It takes hard work, courage, sacrifice and dedication. Those are the things that really embody the spirit of the LegalShield organization. Consumer protection is something I've decided to take very seriously. Whether criminals try to defraud consumers over the internet or in person, we will act swiftly to achieve justice. This is a great company and I'm honored to be a part of your celebration." Former Senator Susan Paddack, former Attorney General Mike Turpen and Chickasaw Secretary of Commerce Bill G. Lance, Jr., were among guests who participated in the day's festivities.

About LegalShield A pioneer in the democratization of affordable access to legal protection, LegalShield is one of North America's leading providers of legal safeguards and protection against identity theft solutions for individuals, families and small businesses. The 45-year-old company protects more than 1,647,000 individual, families and businesses through its legal plans, while IDShield provides identity protection to one million individuals. In addition, LegalShield and IDShield serve more than 141,000 businesses. Both legal and identity theft plans start as low as $20 per month. LegalShield's legal plans provide access to attorneys with an average of 19 years of experience in areas such as family matters, estate planning, financial and business issues, consumer protection, tax, real estate, benefits disputes and auto/driving issues. Unlike other legal plans or do-it-yourself websites, LegalShield has dedicated law firms in 50 states and four provinces in Canada that members can call for help without having to worry about high hourly rates. IDShield provides identity monitoring and restoration services and is the only identity theft protection company armed with a team of licensed private investigators on call to restore a member's identity. For more information, visit http://www.LegalShield.com or http://www.IDShield.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006250/en/

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ISOA Presents Comprehensive Health Services With Vanguard Award

Comprehensive Health Services, one of the nation's largest and most experienced workforce medical services providers, was award the Tier 3 ISOA Vanguard Award at ISOA's first annual awards.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006277/en/

Comprehensive Health Services representatives pose at the June 1st ISOA Award Dinner with the Tier 3 (News - Alert) Vanguard Award. (Photo: Business Wire)

ISOA's First Annual Awards Dinner was held at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, June 1, 2017. The evening's keynote speaker was General John F. Campbell, U.S. Army (Retired). More than 220 individuals attended the event.

Winning companies were judged and awarded based on transparency, policy initiatives promoting sustainability in fragile environments, and for conduct as an exemplary ISOA member and contingency operations advocate. Industry peers recognized Comprehensive Health Services as a respectable asset within the contingency operations space. Comprehesive Health Services received a special accolade from global providers who referenced them as "Truly the only medical company in this space."







Doug Magee, Sr. VP of Business Development, accepted the award for Comprehensive Health Services. Other company representatives in attendance included Jim Van Dusen, Daniel Jones, Vicki Lockard, Kelley DeConciliis, Stephanie Kapurch, Jeff Grezeszak, and David Hughes (News - Alert).

About Comprehensive Health Services

Founded in 1975, Comprehensive Health Services is one of the nation's largest and most experienced providers of workforce medical services. We partner with Fortune 1000 companies and the U.S. government to solve the highly complex, large-scale health care challenges they face by implementing and managing cost-effective, customized medical programs for large and dispersed workforces. Our technology-driven, flexible health care solutions are capable of providing tailored services to ensure employers can meet the medical needs and compliance issues of their employees anywhere in the world. For more information, please visit www.chsmedical.com. For news and updates, follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) @CHSMedical, LinkedIn, or like us on Facebook.

View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170619006277/en/
[June 19, 2017]

Minister Joly Appoints Acting Chair of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

The Government of Canada announces Judith A. LaRocque has accepted to act as chair of CRTC

GATINEAU, QC, June 19, 2017 /CNW/ - The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced the appointment of Judith A. Larocque as acting chair of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). The Governor in Council approved the interim appointment for a term of four months, effective June 18, 2017. Ms. Larocque previously served as acting vice-chair of the CRTC (November 2016 to May 2017).

A dedicated public servant, Ms. Larocque has extensive experience in the broadcasting field. This interim appointment will ensure the continuous and efficient operation of the CRTC.

Selection processes at the CRTC, including for the position of chair, were launched on January 23, 2017, and are open, transparent and merit-based. They are ongoing. Appointments will be announced in due course.

We would like to thank Mr. Blais for his five years of service and his commitment to the CRTC.

Quotes

"In our changing world, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission works to ensure that all Canadians have access to a world-class communication system. It's a challenging task, and I would like to thank Ms. Larocque for agreeing to stay on the CRTC team as acting chair."

 The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage

Quick Facts

In 2016, the Government of Canada adopted a new approach that requires a selection process for full- and part-time positions.

All appointment opportunities for the 18 organizations in the Canadian Heritage Portfolio are posted as they become available on the Governor in Council Appointments website.

Associated Links









Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/home-accueil.htm



SOURCE Canadian Heritage
These maps, among the exhibits submitted with a lawsuit challenging Wisconsin's 2011 legislative map, show the differences in legislative districts and representation under different scenarios, including a plan proposed in the lawsuit applied to 2012 election results.
UpGuard revealed that a misconfigured database made the personal information of 198 million U.S. voters publicly available to anyone who went looking for it. The security company said this is the "largest known data exposure of its kind," and that the data includes 1.1TB of "entirely unsecured personal information" collected by three data firms hired by the Republican National Committee (RNC) during the 2016 presidential election.

The exposed information includes the "names, dates of birth, home addresses, phone numbers, and voter registration details" of nearly all of America's registered voters, UpGuard said in its disclosure, "as well as data described as 'modeled' voter ethnicities and religions." The company said the data was collected by TargetPoint Consulting, Data Trust, and Deep Root Analytics (DRA) and stored on a publicly accessible server managed by DRA. All three firms have connections to the GOP and were hired to help the party win the 2016 presidential election.



TargetPoint, Data Trust, and DRA have not released statements about this disclosure. TargetPoint and DRA have not responded to our requests for comment, and a Data Trust spokesperson said, "We are aware of Deep Root's situation, but inquiries about it need to be directed to them."

UpGuard cyber risk analyst Chris Vickery discovered the misconfigured database on June 12. Besides the 1.1TB of publicly accessible information, another 24TB of secured data was stored on the server. Vickery downloaded the public info between June 12 and June 14, at which point UpGuard notified "federal authorities" about the leak. DRA is said to have blocked public access to all of the server's data shortly after that disclosure. It's not clear for how long the server was publicly accessible, or how many people downloaded the data before it was secured.

This leak highlights the dangers of collecting personal information about hundreds of millions of people. It's worth driving home the point that nobody stole this data--it was made publicly available to anyone who went looking for it. Besides harming U.S. voters' privacy, the information and analysis affected by this leak could put people at risk of phishing campaigns or other, more damaging attacks.



The revelation of personal data might not be the most damaging aspect of this leak. That dubious honor belongs to spreadsheets that sought to answer questions, according to UpGuard, "ranging from how likely it is the individual voted for Obama in 2012, to whether they agree with the Trump foreign policy of 'America First,' to how likely they are to be concerned with auto manufacturing as an issue, among others." UpGuard's Dan O'Sullivan said he was able to "view his modeled policy preferences and political actions as calculated by TargetPoint" and that they were "astoundingly accurate."



Those models could help hackers personalize their attacks. It's easier to make someone click on a link, download a file, or otherwise let their guard down with more carefully targeted attacks. So-called spear-phishing attacks are often more successful than mass emails from "Nigerian princes" willing to shower you with riches if you front them a few bucks. The information and analysis exposed by this leak would make those targeted attacks much easier to conduct. Almost everyone who was registered to vote in the 2016 election could now be in danger.

Unfortunately, there's nowhere to go but down from here. As UpGuard said in its disclosure:

The fundamental problems which exposed this data are not rare, uncommon, or consigned to one side of the partisan divide; indeed, while those responsible for this exposure are of one party, the 198 million Americans affected span the entire political spectrum, their information revealed regardless of their political beliefs. The same factors that have resulted in thousands of previous data breachesforgotten databases, third-party vendor risks, inappropriate permissionscombined with the RNC campaign operation to create a nearly unprecedented data breach. [...] Despite the breadth of this breach, it will doubtlessly be topped in the futureto a likely far more damaging effectif the ethos of cyber resilience across all platforms does not become the common language of all internet-facing systems.

Political parties, private companies, and other organizations are only going to become more reliant on big data. Knowledge is power, after all, and databases like this hold all the knowledge that the powerful could want. It makes it easier for politicians to win elections, companies to target advertisements, and other organizations to boost their own effectiveness. Unfortunately, the apparent inability to secure this information means it will also be used to attack the people behind the data, whether it's by breaching an organization's systems or accessing a public server.
KC Temp Chief's Blog: "Violent crime does not occur in a vacuum, so we are using intelligence information to deploy resources in an effort to address the myriad issues related to violent crime. This week, we began using officers in some of our more flexible units  Traffic Division, Special Operations Division and Violent Crimes Enforcement Division (the enforcement arm of the Kansas City No Violence Alliance )  to proactively patrol areas that we have identified as experiencing high levels of violent crime and other types of incidents.





"Were recognizing that certain factors we may previously have thought were unrelated do play together. In areas where you find a lot of fatality traffic accidents and drug overdoses, you also find violent crime. Were looking at numerous other factors, as well, including drive-by shootings, non-fatal shootings, homicides and more. Our Law Enforcement Resource Center is using that information to identify up to four relatively small geographic zones where additional officers are proactively patrolling and creating an increased, visible police presence . . ."

WILL THE NEW POLICE CRACKDOWN EFFORT WORK TO CUT DOWN ON THE KANSAS CITY MURDER RATE ALREADY SPIRALING OUT OF CONTROL???

Here's a look at the latest plan to curb the climbing KCMO homicide rate as this Summer grows more deadly . . .It's kinda like the "hotspot" policing idea but without the buzzwords, hype or high expectations . . .Here's the new plan . . .Here's the word . . .And so . . .You decide . . .
Remembering Dick Howser. 30 years later The memory is vivid for George Brett. He dropped by the hospital to visit Royals manager Dick Howser, who was about to undergo surgery for a brain tumor. And after the two exchanged pleasantries, a picture on the stand next to Howser's bed caught Brett's attention.

Excellent reader suggestion from our community. For those who haven't seen it yet, check this tribute to a local legend and a reminder that tragedy always walks hand-in-hand with triumph. Take a look:
Man charged with killing next door neighbor Cedric O. Russell is charged with first degree murder, sodomy or attempted sodomy, burglary, stealing, tampering with a motor vehicle and tampering with physical evidence, according to court documents A 25-year-old Kansas City man is accused of killing his next door neighbor and stealing several items, including her car.
CHECK THIS EPIC FACT CHECK OF NEW KANSAS CITY SINGLE-TERMINAL AIRPORT HYPE AND ADVERTING FROM AN EXPERT ON BOTH SUBJECTS!!!

Save KCI: We Can Do Better Than This

This reminds me way too much of the vague trust me it will be great generalities we heard 4 years ago. You may be 100% correct and we need a single terminal yesterday, but please be specific for those who have been trained these past 4 years to be skeptical of the stated reasons.





How much increased access and to where? The airlines have added several domestic non-stops and at least one international non-stop flight since the 2016 meeting when they said they wouldnt. Perhaps theyll indeed add even more with a new terminal. But how many and to where? Even an estimate is better than build it and they will come.

A Kansas City blogger and active participant in new airport discussions for nearly five years offers an insider perspective on the new single-terminal debate that's a lot like the old single-terminal debate.To wit . . .Remember that. . . The blogger seems impressed with the new campaign but not the dearth of information on what the new airport will and won't actually deliver . . .Checkit:Money line:You decide . . .
KC Bishop James V. Johnston: Teach Your Children Well

"The conversations continue and the questions get more complex, but the classroom of the family is meant to continue through all these years. Conversations about faith in the family should not be rare, but frequent. As children mature, this freedom to reflect together can find great benefit when a topic comes up at school or in a movie or television show. The parents have set the stage to reflect on everything in the childs life through the lens of faith and the relationship with God.





"I know several families that have mastered this art. For example, when certain lifestyles are glamorized on television or the news, the parents use it as a teaching moment as to why Christians do not live that way. They reinforce their childs identity and capacity to live the truth in love (Eph 4:15)."

Here's a TKC truism that's worth a quick share on Sunday: Fathers and families of EVERY demographic strata HATE parenting advice.

Not a lot of people know this but there are at least. Meanwhile,But for now, practitioners of this faith are mostly single to serve the Lord without the burden of rugrats.And so, this bit of family advice and Sunday contemplation doesn't come from experience but with some scriptural reference . . .Here's the word . . .And while we respect this high ranking cleric who has done reasonably well in turning the local diocese around after scandal took down his predecessor . . .For those of who haven't "slipped one past the goalie" this gentle reminder can be helpful in avoiding more than a few stupid arguments.You decide . . .
"It is possible for Greece to return to the markets this year or next year if the program of reforms continues successfully, as it has been agreed," he said

European Stability Mechanism (ESM) chief Klaus Regling reiterated his view that Greece could tap the markets later this year or in 2018 if it sticks to its reforms program, during an interview with public broadcaster ERT, which will be shown on Monday?s evening newscast.

"It is possible for Greece to return to the markets this year or next year if the program of reforms continues successfully, as it has been agreed," he was quoted as saying.

According to Regling, "the markets are monitoring closely what is happening with the ownership of the program and whether the government continues to implement what has been agreed with the Eurogroup and the ESM."

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
"It is now becoming more imperative than ever to face challenges and solve longstanding problems that divide us," Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said on Monday shortly after his meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim.

The implementation of our agenda must be based on good-neighbourly relations and mutual respect without actions that undermine them. The Aegean must be a sea of peace and stability, he noted.

He said their talks had covered all issues between Greece and Turkey - namely =relations between them, Turkey's relations with the EU, the Cyprus issue and developments in the region - as well as noting that their talks, "in addition to being honest and substantive, are also essential at this crucial time."

"We agreed that tensions should be prevented and not suppressed," Tsipras added, and therefore an open channel of communicaiton between armed forces chiefs in the two countries.

The positive agenda of the two countries is also developing in areas of strategic importance, such as energy, transport, counter-terrorism and the refugee - migration crisis, the Greek premier stressed.

In the field of Euro-Turkish relations, Greece supports Turkey's EU accession course, which can help resolve issues and stimulate further cooperation, added Tsipras.

The Greek Prime Minister expressed support for a solution on Cyprus that will ensure security for all the people of the island, without a need for third powers and always in line with the European acquis.

"Turkey's provocations and violations do not assist in a positive agenda," Tsipras said. "We are working so that 'Geneva 2' will be a step forward," he added in response to questions, announcing that the two sides agreed on closer cooperation and constant exchanges and preparation in the time left until the Geneva meeting on June 28, in order to achieve the best possible outcome.

Commenting on a statement by UN Special Advisor for Cyprus Espen Barth Eide that the June 28 meeting will be "the end of the road" for the Cyprus issue, Tsipras said that he did not adopt this view.

"I do not believe there is an end to the road. Instead there is our willingness to open a road, even when we are at a impasse. And this is the message that we two want to send via this meeting."

"I fully agree," added Yildirim, on his part, noting that "we must continue to open roads" and that Turkey "has the political will for the solution of this issue," if the other side was willing to find a way. At the same time, he noted that the Cyprus problem was not a UN issue but primarily concerned the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.

"The solution must be fair and viable, and capable of putting an end to the problem. We, as prime ministers, will contribute in every possible and positive way so that the efforts of the two communities bear fruits," he added.

Tsipras also commenting on the extradition of eight Turkish military servicemen that fled Turkey after the failed coup and sought asylum in Greece. This was an issue that only Greek justice could decide, he said, and the rulings of Greek justice must be fully respected.

The Greek goverment, in its political position, had from the first voiced opposition to the attempted coup and indicated that those responsible were not welcome in Greece, Tsipras added.

Yildirim repeated Turkey's position for their extradition while acknowledging that it was an issue for justice to decide, "while the administration must do its own part."

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: AteshCommons License: CC-BY-SA
The Greeks always wanted and will always want relations of friendship and good neighbourliness with Turkey, as there are :more things that unite us than divide us," Greek President Prokopis Pavlopoulos said on Monday in a meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim in Athens.

Yildirim told Pavlopoulos that the Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has asked to visit Greece this year.

Pavlopoulos accepted, stressing that it is important the two sides to get well prepared for President Erdogan's visit so that it will be successful and bring good results.

"Greece is Turkey's doorway and window to Europe," he said, noting that Greece has always viewed Turkey's European course positively. He also noted, however, that a country wishing to join the EU must fully respect both international law and the laws of Europe.

"We are ready to assist Turkey in this direction when it needs it," he added, pointing out that peaceful solutions based on international law would greatly assist Turkey's bilateral relations with Greece and its progress toward EU membership. The Greek side was ready to do its part, he said, and such an approach would greatly lessen the defence costs incurred by both countries at difficult times for their respective economies.

"It could well be spent to further enhance the prosperity of our people. It is necessary to do this and on this we are absolutely frank," he added.

Yildirim noted Ankara's satisfaction with Pavlopoulos' recent visit to Istanbul, which he said was the first by a Greek president in 65 years. He also agreed with the Greek president that "there are great many issues on which we have a common approach," in addition to the issues that divide the two countries.

"Consequently, I consider that a positive approach on this positive agenda will prove beneficial to both peoples and both countries," he said.

The Turkish government was fully aware of Greece's contribution to Turkey's efforts to join the EU, he added, and "very grateful for all you have done." At the same time, he criticised the EU's dealings with Turkey over the past year, saying they had not helped the progress of Turkey's accession efforts.

"It would be very good if the EU clearly outlined its vision for the future of Europe and decided what Turkey's place in that future will be," he said. "We believe that Turkey's full EU membership will contribute to the security of the EU and to a climate of security and stability in the broader region.

The Turkish premier also highlighted Turkey's role as a "buffer" for refugee flows to Europe and in fighting terrorism, saying Ankara would like to see recognition and acknowledgement for these efforts, especially as regards the refugee crisis.

Read more here.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: -    License: CC-BY-SA
GE has signed an agreement worth $575 million with Egyptian authorities to supply 100 locomotives that can be used for passengers or freight rail, as well as a 15-year contract for parts and technical support for GE locomotives.



The Letter of Intent for the supply of GE ES30ACi Light Evolution Series as well as the service contract was signed with the Ministry of Transportation (MoT) and Egyptian National Railways (ENR).



The agreement, which is the largest ever between the parties, also includes technical training aimed at improving local capabilities and technical skills for more than 275 ENR engineers and employees in region.



To signing was attended by dignitaries such as Egypts Prime Minister Sherif Ismail, Dr Sahar Nasr, Minister of Investment & International Cooperation in Egypt, Dr Hesham Arafat, Minister of Transportation in Egypt, Medhat Shousha, chairman of ENR, US Ambassador Robert Beecroft, US Ambassador in Egypt; and John Rice, vice chairman of GE and President and CEO of GEs Global Growth Organization.



A common thread amongst national strategies across the globe is the provision of sustainable and advanced infrastructure, with transportation a particularly crucial component, said John Rice.



What is exciting about this partnership is its truly holistic nature. We are working with the MoT and ENR on the entire process  from ensuring a competitive financing solution with partners to the manufacture and technical support for the locomotives, and the training and development of engineers. This is what it takes to be a true partner, engaging at all levels to offer comprehensive end-to-end solutions."



This strategic agreement reflects GE Transportations efforts to deepen and transform its global presence, meet international customers needs, and capitalize on the strong opportunity for international growth thats critical to continued success.



This marks a major milestone for Egypt and reflects a long-standing relationship with the Ministry of Transportation and ENR, added Jamie Miller, GE Transportation chief executive officer. Today, ENRs fleet includes roughly 80 GE Evolution Series locomotives to move people and goods critical to Egypts economy. With this agreement, we will help the region improve its rail infrastructure and bring products to market faster and more efficiently.



Medhat Shousha said: We are looking forward to bringing the latest technologies to improve rail infrastructure in Egypt. Together with GE, we will work on enhancing the efficiency of rail transportation for both freight and passengers. Additionally, the parts and technical support agreement will ensure that the performance of our fleet is maintained over the years.



GE ES30ACi Light Passenger Evolution Series Locomotives are equipped with a 12-cylinder, 3,200 horsepower GE Evolution Series engine. The locomotive delivers high power output to enable enhanced productivity and flexibility in heavy haul operations, as well as enhanced reliability. The locomotives can be used to transport passengers or freight.



GE has been a committed partner to Egypt for over 40 years. With more than 700 employees in country, GE works with its partners in the public and private sector to bring its latest technologies and solutions to serve the transportation, aviation, oil & gas, power and healthcare sectors. This agreement builds on our longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Transportation and ENR.  TradeArabia News Service
UAE citizens can now travel to Japan without a pre-entry visa, a senior official has confirmed.



Ahmed Saeed Elham Al Dhaheri, assistant under-secretary for Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said the UAE and Japan have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) on easing travel for the UAE citizens to Japan, WAM reported.



The Mou's were signed during the visit of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to Tokyo in April.



Under the agreement, visa-free entry is allowed to UAE citizens with the diplomatic and special passports on official mission in Japan for any number of days. If they wish to travel to Japan for tourism and business purposes, they can only stay for a maximum period of 90 days from their date of entry, the report said.



UAE citizens with regular passports who wish to travel to Japan for tourism, business and official reasons are required to present their passports to the Japanese Embassy in Abu Dhabi, or the General Consulate of Japan in Dubai, or any diplomatic or representative office of Japan in any other country, to register their date of entry into Japan through an electronic sticker that is placed on the passport, free of charge. It is valid for three years or for the remaining period of their passports validity. The sticker allows UAE citizens to remain in Japan for a maximum of 30 days.



This comes into effect from July.



Al Dhaheri stated that this accomplishment, which facilitates the movement of citizens from both countries, "is part of strong and exceptional 45-year bilateral relations between the UAE and Japan".
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LONDON, June 19

The gap between French and German bond yields held near its tightest level in seven months after French President Emmanuel Macron won a commanding majority in parliamentary elections, securing a strong mandate for pro-business reforms.

France's 10-year government bond yield was within sight of seven-month lows and South European government bond yields dropped on Monday after this Sunday's second round vote.

Macron's centrist Republic on the Move LREM party and its centre-right Modem ally won 350 out of 577 seats in the lower house, fewer than previously forecast.

Record low voter turnout suggested France's new leader, the youngest since Napoleon, would need to proceed cautiously with reforms in a country where trade unions and street protests have in the past forced new legislation to be diluted.

"He will also face an enormous amount of resistance on the ground from the vested interests of the trade unions which still wield an enormous amount of influence, and could make life very difficult for the inexperienced new President and his party," said Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK.

But the scale of his victory gives Macron, a pro-European Union centrist, a solid platform to carry out his campaign promises to revive the euro zone's second biggest economy.

That lifted investor sentiment on Monday, with French stocks rallying 1.15 per cent and outperforming European peers.

French banking stocks, a barometer of appetite for French assets, jumped over 1.5 per cent

Berenberg chief economist Holger Schmieding said France could become the strongest economy in Europe in a decade.

In the past

Sunday's vote also closes a chapter on what has been a driver of European market risk, given the popularity of anti-euro far-right leader Marine Le Pen heading into France's presidential elections in April and May.

The gap between French and German bond yields  an important gauge of risk appetite  had widened sharply heading into that vote but has since tightened.

The 10-year bond yield gap was at 35 bps on Monday, just 2 bps away from levels hit last week that marked the tightest since November. The spread is down more than 40 bps from highs hit in February at the height of French election jitters.

In absolute terms, the yield on France's 10-year government bond was unchanged on the day, staying within sight of a seven-month low of 0.58 per cent hit last week.

Italian and Portuguese government bond yields dropped 3-4 basis points on the day, and the gap over the German equivalent was close to multi-month lows in both cases.

These bonds tend to rally when risk appetite is strong and when euro zone break up concerns ebb.

"What is also important is the composition of the (parliament)," said Peter Chatwell, head of euro rates strategy at Mizuho. "Having the Socialists lose so many seats means this is still a very much business- and reform-friendly assembly and that's why we've been able to see the CAC-40 (stock market) rally nicely ...while French spreads are still relatively tight."

Positive developments in French politics contrasted with turbulence in Britain, where a weakened government on Monday kicked off divorce talks with the EU. Reuters
Maj Gen Ashok K. Mehta (retd)

IN these times of acute famine in dialogue between India and Pakistan, now in its fifth year of suspension following the beheading of an Indian soldier in January 2013, it was gratifying that at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet at Astana, Kazakhstan, recently, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Narendra Modi shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. But sadly, that's only as far as they went, a full 18 months after the two-strand Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue format was worked out on the sidelines of the Paris Climate Change talks in December 2015.

That one was a real quickie because within days, the two NSAs and the two Foreign Secretaries were meeting at Bangkok to enable External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to attend the Heart of Asia conference in Islamabad on December 9, proving that where there's a will, there's a way. It was also on the sidelines of the 15th SCO summit at Ufa in July 2015 that bilateral talks were held. At Astana, Modi could easily have pulled Sharif aside for a tete-a-tete to start the comprehensive bilateral dialogue as soon as possible. Modi has the political mandate to pull a rabbit out of the hat though Sharif has less of a say in such matters due to big brother, Gen Bajwa, watching. Swaraj unfortunately had already robbed the little surprise there was of any structured conversation on the sidelines by announcing that this would not happen.

The year 2016 was horrible for the dialogue process, what with the Pathankot attack, Burhan Wani episode, Uri strike and the retaliatory surgical strikes which did not force a clampdown on cross-border terrorism as was claimed by the government. Violence continued without any breakthrough on Track I. The dearth of any official engagement was made up by the number of Track II dialogues, two of which two were held in the last two months at Dubai and Kathmandu which I attended. These happened in April and May when after the winter lull, violence had kicked up again. Panelists from both sides recognised that the time was not conducive for talks given the growing levels of vigilante-ism and high-decibel television frenzy on both sides of the Line of Control to wipe each other off the map. Pakistan has sought moral equivalence with India as a victim of terrorism, thanks to what our Prime Minister, Defence Minister and National Security Adviser have been saying about punishing Pakistan in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan. The charges specifically listed are unleashing of state terrorism in Balochistan through people like Kulbhushan Jadhav, a spy who incidentally was sentenced to death by a military court on the day after the Dubai conference. Reaching out to Baloch leader in exile, Brahamdagh Khan Bugti, financing of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, colluding with Kabul agencies for disruptive activities in Pakistan and most of all, the desire and intent to break up the CPEC project: these are the allegations now openly made against India. Samjhauta is forgotten. Pakistanis urged India to join CPEC, which eventually might provide an opening to the settlement of the Kashmir dispute.

Two new elements have clouded the discourse: firstly, the tolerance threshold of cross-border terrorism never articulated by India has been abridged. Red lines are now shallow, closer to the LoC and inside Jammu and Kashmir. Previously, these were crossed mainly in attacks outside Jammu and Kashmir. Now, 19 dead in Uri would evoke a surgical strike. The red line has now been shifted to inside the state --- with Uri becoming the new normal. Ajit Doval, before he became the NSA, used to say if there is another Mumbai, there will be no Balochistan. Rawalpindi has identified this red line and confined its attacks mainly within Jammu and Kashmir.

Secondly, a retired Pakistani General observed at Kathmandu that the equation between India and Pakistan has moved beyond LoC violations to kidnapping of each other's officials. An advisory governing the attendance of Track II meetings anywhere in the neighbourhood has warned about threats from hostile intelligence agencies. He was referring to the disappearance in Nepal in April this year of one recently retired believed to be ISI Lt Col Mohammad Habib Zahir by R&AW to facilitate the eventual release of Kulbhushan Jadhav. A retired Indian General who was to attend the conference stayed away. A former Pakistan minister attended the conference, ignoring the advice from his party President but kept a low profile and left immediately after the conference.

Swaraj has attached three conditions for resumption of talks - resolve all issues through dialogue, bilateral without any third party; and talks and terror cannot go together. It is the last provision which is tricky and one Pakistan has been unable to fulfil even during Gen Musharraf's time. Then infiltration reduced by nearly half but violence in Jammu and Kashmir did not end. Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir has acquired a certain grassroot motivation and momentum. The tap of infiltration can be partially closed, not shut at least not till progress is seen to be made on Kashmir. Not long ago, both sides argued endlessly over which of the two core concerns of each other was more important: terrorism or Kashmir. In the end, the principle of simultaneity won the argument. Mentioning only terrorism, not Kashmir, grounded the Ufa agreement. Further, New Delhi has quietly removed the red line of Pakistani officials not meeting the Hurriyat before the dialogue which wrecked a meeting between Swaraj and Sartaj Aziz in 2015.

With a miss at Astana, the next window of opportunity will be on the sidelines of UNGA or a Saarc summit later in the year which was postponed last year due to the tensions between India and Pakistan. Track II veterans at Kathmandu last month said that the next window of opportunity would arrive only after the elections in Pakistan, 2018 and elections in India, 2019. Such is the sorry state of India-Pakistan relations.

The writer is the convener of an uninterrupted India-Pakistan dialogue.
ON Monday the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party announced its preference for the next President of India: Governor Ram Nath Kovind of Bihar. Other than the fact that he belongs to the Dalit community, it is difficult to see how the Patna Raj Bhavan incumbent makes the presidential cut. Admittedly, he is not without experience of public life; he also has certain familiarity with the legislative landscape. The problem is that the selection is seen as a realpolitik pursuit of a Dalit Agenda. In this age of identity politics and caste vote banks the NDA managers have their calculations and compulsions. The choice has already been framed, by the NDA ministers, in terms of political endorsement or opposition to a Dalit. Clever but crude. Such arguments are hardly likely to produce any kind of consensus on the NDA nominee.

The onus is on the non-BJP political forces to come up with a better and more formidable candidate than Mr Kovind. That Mr Kovind is a party man need not be a disqualification in itself; but that he has strong and old affiliation to the RSS invites  as it should  reservation and opposition. The Opposition will be entirely within its democratic rights to contest the ruling partys choice  just as the BJP had insisted, five years ago, on putting up PA Sangma against Pranab Mukherjee, despite the fact that the numbers overwhelmingly favoured the UPA nominee. The NDA has an edge this time and seems to have done its homework in ensuring support from many smaller non-NDA outfits. Still, the Opposition is under no obligation to give a free passage to the ruling partys man.

Given that the ruling establishment has political momentum and assumption of popular acceptance behind it, its presidential choice is rather disappointing. It could pick an outstanding public figure to head the republic. Tokenism has its uses, and we have already had a Dalit president (KR Narayanan). The person who gets to live in the sprawling Rashtrapati Bhavan has to inspire confidence that he/she can be relied upon to be a robust custodian of the republic and its constitutional values and traditions. On that count, the Kovind choice falls considerably short.
Pradeep Sharma

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 19

Private transport operators are up in arms against the strong-arm tactics of the Haryana Roadways (HR) unions in preventing their buses from plying allegedly in contravention of the directions of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Though we were granted permits for five years from March, 2017, under the new State Carriage Scheme 2017, we are not allowed to ply our buses on one pretext or the other at the whims and fancies of HR union leaders. With the state government being a mute spectator, we have been left with no option but to file a contempt of court petition in the high court for non-adherence to the court orders by the state government, Ravinder Rawal, legal adviser of the Hayana Cooperative Transport Society Welfare Association, told The Tribune here today.

Alleging a nexus between certain HR union leaders and over 10,000 illegal maxi cab operators causing a huge loss to the state exchequer, Rawal alleged that the union leaders were pressuring senior government functionaries to toe their line to inflict financial losses on private bus operators.

Association president Sunil Kumar alleged that in utter disregard of the high court directions the HR unions were not allowing private operators to ply their buses on the routes allotted to them.  In fact, the unions, which had gone on strike thrice in the last 15 days, were putting undue pressure on senior govt functionaries, including the Transport Minister, not to allow plying of their buses, he alleged.

Rawal, however, made it clear that they had no objection if the State Carriage Scheme, 2017, was modified by the Khattar Government in public interest provided the existing 273 bus routes legally allotted to them were left untouched.

The state government had repeatedly admitted that there was need for 13,000 buses in the state and Haryana Roadways had only 4,200 buses of which about 500 buses remained non-operational due to technical faults, the leaders asserted.By stopping the operations of their vehicles on account of a variety of reasons, they were being victimised according to the whims and fancies of union leasders, the association leaders added.
Mukesh Tandon

Tribune News Service

Panipat, June 19

Relatives of a youth who died during treatment protested along with scores of villagers near Sewah village on the NH-1 today.

The deceased was identified as 24-year-old Amit of Nangal Kheri village in Panipat district. Relatives and villagers alleged that he died due to negligence of doctors.

Amit was injured in a road accident on the NH-1 when an unidentified vehicle hit his motorcycle. He was admitted to Park Hospital, where he died last evening, said Jagdeep Duhan, DSP (HQ).

In his complaint to the police, deceaseds brother Sunil said Amit was talking properly during the day and doctors at the hospital assured them that he was in good condition.

Doctors asked them to deposit money last evening as Amit had to be operated upon, but declared him dead after some time, Sunil pointed out.

He alleged that his brother died due to negligence of doctors. After getting information about the death, villagers gathered at the hospital and refused to receive the body.

The protesting villagers demanded stringent action against doctors for their negligence and sought their arrest. Heavy police posse were deputed at the hospital.

SP Rahul Sharma and Duhan reached the spot and pacified the villagers. On their assurance, the villagers agreed to receive the body. The body was sent to the general hospital mortuary.

Duhan said after postmortem examination by a board of doctors, the body was handed over to the family. A case was registered against the unidentified vehicle driver and doctors at the hospital.

Dr Sanjay Sharma, group president, Park Hospital, refuted the allegations. He said there was no negligence on the part of their doctors. He said they had started an inquiry into the incident.
Parveen Arora

Tribune News Service

Karnal, June 19

After a show of strength by former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda through kisan mahapanchayat in Kurukahetra last week, Congress state president Ashok Tanwar began his three-day satyagraha in Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattars constituency Karnal over agrarian crisis in the country and to demand implementation of the Swaminathan Commission Report.

Addressing the gathering, he said people had lost faith in the BJP government.

This satyagraha is a warning to both the governments to fulfil their promises, otherwise people will uproot them, said Tanwar.

Tanwar also asked his party to ensure Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi was made the countrys prime minister in 2019.

Today is Rahul Gandhis birthday and I started this hunger strike in CM city to expose the anti-people and anti-farmers policies of the Union and the state governments, Tanwar said.

When asked why Congress leaders were holding separate protests for farmers, he said that the party stood united in fighting for farmers cause and denied reports of infighting within the state unit.

Whole Congress is fighting over the plights of the farmers, he said, accusing the BJP governments at the Centre and the state of going back on its promise of implementing the Swaminathan commission report.

No sitting MLA of the party participated in the dharna, although some former ministers and MLAs did. Reports suggested that former minister Capt. Ajay Yadav could join this protest on Tuesday.
Dipender Manta

Tribune News Service

Manali, June 19

Poor road infrastructure is proving to be a big blow for the tourism industry in Kullu and Manali as long traffic jams coupled with bad roads are giving a nightmarish experience to tourists visiting the place.

Despite adequate police force deployed to regulate traffic in Kullu-Manali during the peak tourist season, the authorities were struggling hard to cope with the situation.

Due to the ongoing unrest in Jammu and Kashmir, the tourist influx has increased manifold in Kullu-Manali, but hoteliers rued that the tourists visiting here were feeling the pinch of bad roads, which would have an adverse impact on the tourism industry.

Tourists said the journey towards Kullu-Manali was no less than a nightmare because of bad roads a majority of which were too narrow to handle the rush of tourists causing long traffic jams for hours.

Ruth Maria, a tourist from Spain, said the journey to the area was quite exhausting because of poor road conditions.

Nitin Jain, a tourist hailing from Maharashtra, said due to the lack of parking space, tourists faced a lot of difficulty.

With the start of the four-laning work on the Kullu-Manali national highway, traffic situation has become worse. However, to handle the traffic mess, the district administration, Kullu, has diverted the traffic on the left bank side, i.e. towards Manali from Kullu.

Anup Thakur, president of the Kullu-Manali Paryatan Vikas Mandal, said poor road infrastructure did not augur well for the tourism industry in Kullu and Manali and the state government should focus on improving the situation.

Gajender Thakur of the Hoteliers Association Kullu-Manali claimed that those associated with the tourism industry here were a worried lot as the state government was paying no heed to improve the situation.

We urge the state government to provide better road and air connectivity, besides other required infrastructure to boost the tourism sector in Kullu-Manali, he added.
Pratibha Chauhan

Tribune News Service

Shimla, June 19

Keen to poach BJP backed councillors to be able to gain control over the prestigious Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC), the Congress suffered a major setback as one of its own rebel councillors today joined hands with the saffron party.

Sanjay Parmar, who won as an Independent from the Kachhighatti ward, had remained a nominated councillor in the outgoing House of the SMC. Having been denied backing of the Congress party, he had contested as an independent and won the polls. The Congress poll managers were caught unawares when they got news that Parmar had formally joined the BJP at its party office in Chakkar.

The Congress with 12 of its own backed Councillors was hoping to get the support of the three Independent councilors - Sanjay Parmar, Rachna and Sharda Chauhan (all Congress rebels) and one CPM backed candidate Shelly Sharma. With the support of these 16 councillors, the local Congress leaders had been on the lookout to entice a BJP-backed councillor, when they were brought under heavy guard to the Bachat Bhawan for the oath and election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor. The BJP has 17 of its own councillors and support of two independents in a house of 34.

The councillor from Kachhighati, Sanjay Parmar has, on his own, unconditionally joined the BJP in the presence of all senior leaders including former CM PK Dhumal and state BJP president Satpal Singh Satti, said Rajiv Bindal, MLA and state BJP spokesperson. He added that with Parmar formally joining the BJP, the number of party backed councilors has gone up to 19, which will pave the way for formation of a BJP-led MC.

The public has given mandate in favour of the BJP and the Congress will never succeed in its mission of forming the MC, using illegal and unfair means, warned Bindal. He added that the Congress must exhibit grace and accept defeat.

On the other hand, CM Virbhadra Singh, HPCC president Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu along with senior party leaders held meeting with the 12 party-backed councillors and the two independent councillors at Oak Over, the official residence of the Chief Minister. The lone CPM councilor Shelly Sharma was not present in the Congress camp.

Despite knowing that some of its own councillors could be in touch with BJP leaders, the Congress failed to keep them out of bounds of the saffron party. The manner in which the BJP has caged its councillors is virtual murder of democracy. It appears that they do not have faith on their own men despite having majority, remarked Congress president Sukhu.
Tribune News Service

Shimla, June 19

Even as both the ruling Congress and BJP have kept their cards close to their chest for the posts of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, but both parties face rebellion from councilors mainly for the post of Deputy Mayor as Shailender Chauhan, Sanjay Thakur, Vijay Parmar, Congress rebel now with BJP, Rakesh Sharma, a BJP rebel are in race for post of Deputy Mayor as parties have failed to arrive at a consensus on this post.

Two BJP-backed scheduled caste women councilors - Satya Kaundal, who won from one Sanjauli Chowk seat, and Kusum Sadret, who won the Annnadale reserved seat, are in race for the post of Mayor as far as BJP- backed councilors are concerned. The party can sort out the Mayoral choice as it is reserved for the SC category of women, but main problem is consensus on Deputy Mayors post, revealed the insiders.

The Congress is also sailing in the same boat. The Congress may field BJP rebel or its independent councilor Rachna from Vikas Nagar, for the deputy mayors post taking advantage of the faction ridden councilors as they were elected on non-party symbols.

Both BJP and Congress cannot ignore the women councilors because this 34-member House has 20 women councilors.

Senior BJP leader Suresh Bhardwaj and his rival former horticulture minister Narender Bragta and Ganesh Dutt, BJP spokesperson, are throwing their might behind their own candidates and there is no consensus on deputy Mayor post so far, revealed insiders.

According to BJP insiders, the party has kept Mayor and Deputy Mayor candidates a top secret and would be revealed before they proceed for the House session tomorrow.

The Congress sources said that the party was in touch with the BJP-backed rebels and hope to forge a division among the councilors.
Kuldeep Chauhan

Tribune News Service

Shimla, June 19

The BJP will have to wait for another day to realise its dream of controlling the Shimla Municipal Corporation (SMC) as DK Gupta, Director, Urban Development, deferred for tomorrow the proceedings of the House of the newly elected 34 councillors to elect Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the want of quorum that requires 26 councillors.

The SMC witnessed a high-voltage drama today. Congress-backed 16 councillors, including lone CPM member and three Independents, boycotted the election meeting soon after the oath-taking ceremony.

Though the BJP protected its party-backed councillors fearing that the Congress might poach on some of the soft targets, the Congress suffered a major setback as one of its own rebel councillors today joined hands with the saffron party. The party was caught unawares when they got the news that Sanjay Parmar, who won as an Independent from the Kachhighatti ward, had joined the BJP.

Led by Kasumpti legislator Anirudh Singh, who is an associate member of the House, Congress-backed 16 councillors were the first to arrive at the Bachat Bhawan, the venue of the session, at 3.30 pm for the oath-taking ceremony.

Earlier, the BJP-backed councillors were to abstain from the proceedings, the entire political drama took a U-turn when after 15 minutes, BJP president Satpal Satti, Shimla legislator Suresh Bhardwaj and other BJP leaders came with 19 party-backed councillors in a convoy.

The BJP workers laid a cordon-cum-human chain right from The Mall escorting 19 councillors and stormed inside the Bachat Bhawan where Congress-backed councillors and officials were waiting for the proceedings to start.

The BJP leaders stormed into the Well of the House while the saffron brigade laid a human wall behind the chairs occupied by the party-backed councillors. BJP election in-charge Rajiv Bindal raised slogans in favour of the party.

The proceedings of the House started soon after the councillors took oath. After administrating oath of office to the 34 councillors, the Director, Urban Development, adjourned the proceedings for a tea break.

As a part of their strategy, Congress-backed councillors, led by Anirudh Singh, went out for a tea break, but they did not come back.

The Director, Urban Development, waited for 20 minutes, but when the councillors did not come back, he adjourned the House proceedings and deferred the election for the want of quorum of 26 councillors till 11 am tomorrow.

We are serving notices to the councillors to be present for electing the Mayor and Deputy Mayor tomorrow. No condition of quorum is required now as per the Act, he added.
Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Jammu, June 19

All does not seem well within the PDP-BJP coalition government as most of the BJP ministers and its state party president skipped the iftar party hosted by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti in Jammu on Sunday evening.

Only Legislative Assembly Speaker Kavinder Gupta attended the party.

It was unlike last year when an army of BJP leaders, including ministers and party functionaries, had attended the iftar party hosted by Mehbooba Mufti on the lawns of her residence here.

This time, the BJP leaders gave the iftar a miss and all party ministers preferred to stay away from Jammu city.

While Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh preferred to stay back in Srinagar on a holiday, BJP state president also didnt come back to Jammu after attending a daylong session of the legislature on Saturday.

BJP ministers  Choudhary Lal Singh, Chander Prakash Ganga, Sham Lal Choudhary  preferred to visit their respective constituencies to be with people.

Meanwhile, some of the PDP ministers and leaders such as Abdul Haq Khan, Choudhary Zulfkar and Sartaj Madni had flown from Srinagar to Jammu especially to attend the party.

BJP legislator from Nowshera Ravinder Raina, who also did not attend the party, said the time was not right for holding the iftar party.

At a time when the state is still mourning the death of six policemen and Lt Ummer Fayaz, who gave the supreme sacrifice for the country, it was not time to attend the iftar party. Instead, I decided to remember the martyrs, said Raina.
Arun Joshi

The people in the rest of India often wonder: why is Kashmir simmering and who is responsible for all the mess here? The simplest answer: it is the Kashmiri politician who is at the root of this problem.

Any evidence needed? Just look at the way politicians conspired to kill the GST regime, making it an issue as the countrys onslaught on Kashmirs autonomy. The internal politics of Kashmir-centric parties in their unhealthy competition to sound louder as champions of Kashmir lands the issue in the lap of separatists.

Read more: Will J&K be part of India, Sena asks BJP

The people are made to doubt the intentions (of the Centre) and ground is created to stall reforms. Emotions are stirred and connected to the conflict and the narrative of violence is put in top gear.

The same methodology was adopted in writing an obituary of the GST regime even before the formal declaration of its death. The sine die adjournment of the Assembly on Saturday formally declared GST as dead.

After its death, GST will be used as it has been done before, too, to perpetuate the conflict  more death and destruction will follow for which the Centre will be blamed.

The economics has always been subjugated to politics in Kashmir, where the little working season because of weather conditions has been further reduced, practically eliminated, to almost nil. It is the fondness to teach India a lesson by bleeding the self.

Economic prospects are killed to keep the cycle of conflict going on, because if economic reforms get under way, the politics of opportunism and secessionism will be rendered irrelevant.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is a gentleman who trusts people at their face value. He is unaware of the length to which Machiavellianism is practised here. No one can ever tell who will turn a saboteur in the garb of being a champion of reforms.

For all these months ahead of the special session of the Assembly called for passing the GST Bill, Haseeb Drabu, as was his duty as the states Finance Minister, took over the command to communicate with the Centre. Jaitley was assured that the GST Bill, with some modifications, would be passed in the legislature without any hassle.

Simultaneously, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was kept happy with the word sanctity of Article 370 (that grants special status to the state) remaining untouched. This attempt at symphonising strings of two opposite instruments sounded music to the ears of Delhi and Mehbooba.

But something being amiss in the order of communication became clear when all parties met to discuss GST and Drabu could not convince anyone. The subsequent adjournment of the special session confirmed that intentions were unclear from the very beginning.

The kind of consensus that the state is looking for will never come. This is a fallacy, plain and simple. This consensus should have been searched before rather than after convening and then adjourning the special session of the legislature for GST.

The GST regime was to bring Rs 1,500-2,000-crore economic benefits to the state. But now, things have been worked in such a twisted manner that it will further fuel the conflict and inflict more losses on the state economy.

The debate on primarily an economic matter has been polarised between Indian nationalism and Kashmiri secessionism. Thats suicidal for the state overburdened by the baggage of conflict it is carrying on from the previous century.

It is time to pause and look forward to a new future of promise and progress. Perpetuating conflict should not be the curriculum for new generations. They deserve a better syllabus.
Actor Mrunal Jain is experiencing a fan frenzy of sorts. He is shooting in Indonesia and fans mob him wherever he goes. Not only women but even young children are huge fan of his show Uttaran. Mrunal says, The fans in Indonesia are very sweet and made me feel special with their love and affection.

On being asked his most memorable fan experience he says, Once a fan sent me a letter inked in blood. That was really scary. I always request fans not to do such extreme stuff. Every actor loves adulation. I am fortunate that I am showered with so much love and affection. Well Mrunal, your picture is surely speaking high about your increasing fan following in Indonesia!
Kabul/New Delhi, June 19

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Monday inaugurated the first Afghanistan-India air corridor during a ceremony at the Kabul International Airport  a direct route that bypasses Pakistan and is meant to improve commerce.

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The air freight corridor will give a fillip to the trade relations between the two countries and give landlocked Afghanistan a greater access to markets in India. It will also benefit Afghan farmers by giving them a quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce.

A cargo flight later in the day landed from Kabul to New Delhi, marking the inauguration of the dedicated air freight corridor, a decision taken in a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Afghan President Ghani in September 2016.

Modi said the direct (air freight) connectivity between India and Afghanistan will usher prosperity.

I thank President @ashrafghani for the initiative, Modi tweeted.

The flight was flagged off by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet ministers and Indias ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

In Delhi, the flight, carrying 60 tonnes of cargo, mostly asafoetida (hing), was received by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Civil Aviation Minister Gajapathi Raju, Minister of State in the MEA M J Akbar and Afghan envoy to India Shaida Abdali.

During his visit to India in September 2016, Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businesses to achieve a target of $10 billion in trade over the next five years.

The ministry also eased its visa regime for Afghan business-persons, apart from increasing the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year.

Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals.

India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country.

In January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan trucks to enter the Indian territory through Attari land check-post for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan.

India is also working with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chabahar Port. A trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed between the three countries in Tehran in May 2016.

Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibres, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee, tea,meat and spices.

Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious, semi-precious stones.
Vibha Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 19

Putting all speculation to rest, the BJP on Monday announced senior Uttar Pradesh leader and Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit, as its nominee for the Presidential poll.

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Addressing a press conference here, party president Amit Shah said the BJP parliamentary board had decided on Kovinds name. Shah said Kovind, who came from Dalit community, had struggled in life to reach this position.

Read: Congress accuses BJP of unilaterally picking presidential nominee

Shiv Sena remains cool towards BJPs presidential choice

Prez poll: Opposition to meet on June 22

The BJP chief said the name had been discussed with all NDA allies and opposition leaders, including Congress President Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh. Shah said Sonia had told him that they would get back to him after consulting the party.



Shah said most opposition leaders had been contacted and they hoped Kovind would find enough support.

I am sure Shri Ram Nath Kovind will make an exceptional President & continue to be a strong voice for the poor, downtrodden & marginalised.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

Shri Ram Nath Kovind, a farmer's son, comes from a humble background. He devoted his life to public service & worked for poor & marginalised  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2017

Meanwhile, the BJPs masterstroke has stumped everyone, including the media, as Kovind was nowhere on the radar. As the party had pointed out earlier, their candidate has come as a surprise.

Sources say that being Dalit, Kovind is unlikely to face opposition from other parties. This is also a smart move by the party to reach out to the Dalit vote bank.

With one stone, the party has made several political kills. Sources say the party has kept the surprise element intact, just as it did when it chose Yogi Adityanath over others as the UP CM.

Shah refused to divulge the other names considered for the nomination.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders say Kovind is well-read and has done well as chief of the BJPs SC/ST cell. He enjoys a clean image, has impeccable credentials and has the potential to emerge as the consensus candidate, they add.

However, it remains to be seen how the Shiv Sena reacts to the development, though BJP leaders say all allies are on board or will be after the party reaches out to them.

When asked why the names of Sushma Swaraj or Sumitra Mahajan were not considered, party leaders remain mum but refuse to acknowledge that Kovinds Dalit credentials are the only reason why he was chosen.

He is a man of integrity, has a clean and secular image, and is the best possible choice for the top post, they say. The name also has the backing of the RSS, it is learnt.
Simran Sodhi

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 19

In a rare show of solidarity, Foreign Ministers from BRICS nations comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa came together in Beijing and called on the international community to establish a genuinely broad international counter-terrorism coalition.

In a significant stand, the BRICS nations also welcomed the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change in November 2016 and urged all countries to implement the agreement. The United States, under President Donald Trump, has already turned its back on the climate deal and todays endorsement by the BRICS nations signifies the readiness of Russia and China to step into the global leadership position.

Chinese President Xi Jinping also addressed the ministers after the meeting and said BRICS cooperation was entering a golden decade.

At present, the international situation has complexities and also factors of instability and it is right for the BRICS to speak their voice, he said.

This was the first-ever stand-alone summit of BRICS Foreign Ministers and India was represented by Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was supposed to attend the meet, but was unable to travel due to ill health.

In his remarks at the summit, Singh raised the issue of terrorism and said terrorism remains one of the most potent global menace and threatens global peace. The minister reiterated Indias long-standing position that terrorists could not be differentiated as good or bad. They are terrorists, they are criminals and we need to have concerted actions, both regionally and internationally, to curb their activities, he said.

In a communique released today, the BRICS foreign ministers called for an expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN General Assembly.

Afghanistan was another topic that was discussed by the ministers. For Russia, China and India especially, the worrisome situation in Afghanistan has security repercussions that are felt back home. The ministers reaffirmed their support to the process of Afghan-led and Afghan-owned national reconciliation in Afghanistan.

The instability in the Korean peninsula was also addressed in the meeting and the ministers called for preventative diplomacy to tackle the Korea issue. The communique condemned unilateral military interventions and economic sanctions that violate international law or internationally accepted norms.

The BRICS ministers met in Beijing for a two-day conference that ended today.
New Delhi, June 19

The Bharatiya Janata Partys choice of presidential candidate  Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind  has evoked mixed reactions from the Opposition, with parties like the Congress accusing it of making a unilateral announcement.

The Congress, one of the several Opposition parties with which the BJP was holding meetings to build consensus on presidential candidate, said that the BJP did not inform them before making the announcement, but added that the party had nothing to say at the moment.

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"When (Home Minister) Rajnath Singh and (Information and Broadcasting Minister M.) Venkaiah Naidu met (Congress president) Sonia Gandhi, we had expected some names from them for discussion. But they gave no names. We had full hope that before making the announcement, they would discuss some names," the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, said.

"Yes, they did inform us but only after they had decided on the name." He said the meetings with opposition parties was a formality.

"The only thing I would like to say is that we expected that before taking the final decision on a candidate, they will come back to us and other opposition parties. The Opposition parties were given to understand that they will be taken into confidence. It is the BJP's sweet will and we cannot help that.

The Communist Party of India said they were unhappy with the choice and urged the Opposition to prop up their own candidate.

"He is also from RSS ranks. He was president of Dalit BJP Morcha...Sangh Pariwar organisation. Definitely, we will put up a candidate. Anybody from RSS...we will fight," CPI General Secretary Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy said.

Sitaram Yechury of the CPI-M struck a different note. "Kovindji was the chief of the RSS Dalit branch. So somewhere it is a political fight or a contest. We are not commenting or giving any character certificate to anyone." He said the BJP leaders had promised to seek the opposition' consent on the Presidential candidate which did not happen.The Shiv Sena, another ally of the BJP, said it would convene a meeting of party leaders to decide on supporting the NDAs choice for President.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who met Governor Kovind soon after the announcement, said: "I am personally glad he is the presidential candidate." As to whether the JD-U will back his candidature, Nitish Kumar said: "It is difficult to say at this point of time. I had talks with (RJD chief) Lalu Prasad and (Congress President) Sonia Gandhi. We will discuss later and decide."

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee said that Kovind was chosen because he was the leader of BJPs Dalit Morcha and that there were "bigger Dalit leaders" in India.

"There are other big Dalit leaders in India. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of the BJP, the NDA has made him presidential candidate, Banerjee said.

On the other hand, Biju Janata Dal, BJPs ally Telegu Desam Party, and archrival Telanganas ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi have backed the BJPs choice.

"After discussing with senior party leaders, BJD has decided to support the candidature of Ram Nath Kovind," BJP president Naveen Patnaik, Odishas chief minister, said after receiving a telephone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Patnaik said Ram Nath Kovind is an eminent lawyer belonging to the scheduled caste community.

"The office of the President of India is above political consideration and Biju Janata Dal wants to keep it above the politics," he said.

Bahujan Samaj Party meanwhile extended conditional support.

BSP's stand will be positive provided Opposition doesn't field any Dalit, BSP chief Mayawati said.

After days of playing its cards close to its chest, BJP finally announced its choice of candidate for President. It has also been meeting Opposition parties to build consensus.

An advocate by profession, Kovind was a Rajya Sabha member for 12 years and a member of several parliamentary panels. He had practised law in both the High Court and the Supreme Court.

An unassuming man, Kovind worked through the ranks to become a national spokesperson of the BJP. He headed the BJP's Dalit wing for three years from 1999.

The Presidential election will be held on July 17. If there isnt consensus of a candidate and if the opposition announces a rival to BJPs choice, the election result will be announced on July 20.

Incumbent President Pranab Mukherjees tenure ends on July 24.  Agencies
Beijing, June 19

India on Monday pitched for a greater engagement with BRICS nations which have steadily expanded its agenda from financial matters to security and counter-terrorism issues facing the international community.

Addressing the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting here, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh said BRICS countries had reached significant understanding on security and counter-terrorism issues.

Besides cooperating on financial issues, the BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion, he said.

BRICS joint working group mechanism has concluded in May 2017, Singh said, adding that the National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries are due to meet next month ahead of this years summit of the bloc to be held in Chinas Xiamen city in September.

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In the Delhi meeting last year they (NSAs) had reached significant understanding on security and counter-terrorism matters, Singh, who represented External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at the meeting, said.

Swaraj could not attend the meeting due to health issues.

Singh, who held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday, said India attached great importance to BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and (we) continue to work closely with all our partners with mutual trust, respect and transparency to further enhance our bonds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid special emphasis on people-to-people exchanges in the BRICS process, he said.

I reiterate India attaches its utmost importance to its engagement with BRICS. Our Prime Minister had repeatedly underscored the importance of BRICS in the international arena and stressed the importance of intra-BRICS cooperation, Singh said.

Besides Wang and Singh, Sergey Lavrov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa and Alosio Nunes Ferreira of Brazil attended the BRICS foreign ministers meeting which is expected to finalise the agenda for the Xiamen summit.

In his meeting with Singh on Sunday, Wang said China and India are both major countries with great influence and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Talking to other BRICS foreign minsters, he called for closer cooperation among the BRICS countries.

In the bilateral meeting with South African foreign minister Maite, Wang said BRICS countries, faced with increasing uncertainties in the international situation, should unite more closely and play a leading role in building a community of shared future for the mankind.

China stands ready to step up coordination with South Africa to strengthen the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as well as the BRICS mechanism, continuously expand the strategic cooperation between the two countries, and safeguard the common interests of the two nations and all other developing countries.

During his meeting with Lavrov, Wang said China is willing to deepen coordination with Russia to enhance strategic trust, boost economic and financial cooperation, increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges and strengthen the cooperation mechanism among BRICS countries. PTI
K V Prasad

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, June 19

With the ruling combine declaring its presidential candidate, the Opposition parties on Monday decided to meet here on June 22 to finalise its candidate for the election of the President of India.

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We will be meeting here on June 22, CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury told The Tribune, indicating the combined Opposition could change its strategy since the BJP-led NDA announced Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind to be the official candidate of the ruling coalition.

Aware that the move to contest the election has to be a political statement, the Opposition is unlikely to press for its first choice Gopal Krishna Gandhi, a former diplomat.

Already, the Lok Janshakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan said any opposition to Kovind would be construed as being anti-Dalit.

Among the names that came up for discussion during the Opposition meeting was that of former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar. However, a section of the Opposition did not favour a Congress candidate, while another view of Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav was that the Opposition candidate should be a political leader.

Yechury said BJP leaders Rajnath Singh and M Venkaiah Naidu, when they met him last week, had promised to get back with a name since they did not suggest any candidate in the first meeting. Today they have announced the name and never got back.

The election to the office of the President is scheduled for July 17 and June 28 is the last date for the filing of nominations.

Meanwhile, BJP president Amit Shah called up Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackrey informing him of the decision of the BJP Parliamentary Board and seeking support for the candidate.

We will discuss the matter in the party tomorrow and decide, party MP Sanjay Rout said.
Shiv Kumar

Tribune News Service



Mumbai, June 19



The Shiv Sena will decide on extending its support to the BJP's presidential candidate Ram Nath Kovind in the next couple of days Sanjay Raut, its Rajya Sabha MP and editor of party mouthpiece 'Saamna', told reporters here this afternoon.



Uddhavji has told (BJP President) Amit Shah that he would convene a meeting of party leaders and announce the Shiv Sena's decision in a day or two, Raut said. Shortly after the BJP's parliamentary board decided on the name of Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the presidential elections, Shah called up Thackeray and sought

his support, Raut added.



He further pointed out that the Shiv Sena had suggested the names of Mohan Bhagwat and MS Swaminathan. But since they have chosen someone else, we have to take a decision on whether to support his candidature or not, Raut added.
Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch said Monday that she first talked two years ago with officials from a Taiwanese company that builds iPhones and other electronics about considering expanding in Wisconsin.

Kleefisch told The Associated Press that she met with Foxconn officials during a trade mission in 2015 that took her and other state economic development officials to Japan and Taiwan. Foxconn said in January it is looking to make a $7 billion investment in the United States and employ as many as 50,000 people.

Kleefisch said she had a great, general wide-ranging conversation with Foxconn officials about what Wisconsin had to offer  including an educated workforce, access to ports and other transportation networks, manufacturing building capacity  but did not go into detail about what it may be considering for the state.

We didnt talk specifics, Kleefisch said.

She declined to discuss the current status of negotiations, citing a non-disclosure agreement with the company. Officials with the state jobs agency, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., have also declined to comment on any potential Foxconn deal.

Its up to them what direction they head in, Kleefisch said of Foxconn. I will always be an advocate for long-term business growth.

Foxconn assembles smartphones and other devices for Apple, Sony, Blackberry and other brands  mostly in China, where its plants employ about 1 million people. Foxconn CEO Terry Gou said in January that Pennsylvania was a leading candidate for the plant, which would work with the companys Sharp subsidiary.

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder both flew to Japan the same weekend two weeks ago. Snyder since confirmed it was to speak with Foxconn officials, while Walkers office has said it was only to pursue an economic development opportunity.

Hopes of Foxconn choosing Wisconsin rose last week when President Donald Trump alluded to negotiations with an unspecified company during a visit to the Milwaukee area, saying negotiations were happening with a major, incredible manufacturer of phones and computers and televisions and Walker might get a very happy surprise very soon.

Foxconn also has a history of not following through on potential large investments. Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett announced in 2013 that Foxconn was going to spend $30 million on a new manufacturing site in his state, but its yet to be built.

State Rep. Joel Kleefisch, husband to the lieutenant governor, said last week that he would take the lead on any economic development incentives the state may need to compete with other states vying for the Foxconn plant or plants.

Rebecca Kleefisch has made economic development a focus of her work as lieutenant governor under Walker the past 6 years. She just returned from a Mexican trade mission, similar to the one that took her to Japan and Taiwan two years ago.
Shiv Kumar

Tribune News Service



Mumbai, June 19



The Shiv Sena has resumed its attack on the BJP a day after its chief Uddhav Thackeray had a closed-door meeting with BJP president Amit Shah.



In a direct attack on Shah, Shiv Sena mouthpiece Dopahar ka Saamna asked the BJP leader to worry about Jammu and Kashmir instead of meddling in Maharashtra. Amit Shah says the BJP will face any mid-term elections in Maharashtra. They may even win the presidential election.

Read more: GST is dead and buried in J&K

But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir... Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir be part of India, an editorial in the afternoon newspaper asked.



The newspaper said heavenly places on earth like Darjeeling and Kashmir were going through difficult times but some people are keen on mid-term elections in Maharashtra.



The editorial went on to say that the Shiv Sena was concerned with more important things than winning elections. On the other hand, Dopahar ka Saamna said, the BJP was supporting anti-national elements in order to hold on to power. The BJP is supporting Mehbooba Mufti who has been ineffective in Jammu and Kashmir. No one from the Sangh Parivar has had the guts to challenge her, the newspaper said.



Regarding the troubles in Darjeeling, the Shiv Sena mouthpiece praised West Bengal Chief Minister for doing her best to hold talks with those demanding Gorkhaland. Those who have political differences with her must not try to take political advantage of the situation, the newspaper said.



The newspaper went on to say that attempts were being made to cut Shiv Sena down to size for taking a nationalist stand. When the Sena talks of farmers or Kashmir, attempts are being made to silence us, it said.
IN course of his opening speech at the conference on agricultural education Sir Claude Hill discussed at some length the question as to the agency which should direct agricultural. He demurred to the suggestion that it should be transferred to the education department under the existing circumstances. He expressed the view that in this country we are hardly in a position as yet at our present stage of development to contemplate such a change. Here the education department in each province is, said the Revenue and Agriculture member, organised under a Director of Public Instruction, who is an academic persons, assisted only by other academic persons. He cannot himself undertake outside work efficiently. Sir Claude Hill instanced the arrangement adopted in America, Canada and other countries where there is a large headquarters staff with an organiser at the head and assisted by a large number of experts.
London, June 19

A van ploughed into worshippers near a London mosque on Monday, injuring 10 people in what Prime Minister Theresa May said was a sickening terrorist attack on Muslims.

Shortly after midnight, the vehicle swerved into a group of people leaving prayers at the Muslim Welfare House and the nearby Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, one of the biggest in the country.

The driver, a 48-year-old white man, was grabbed at the scene by locals and pinned down until police arrived.

"This morning, our country woke to news of another terrorist attack on the streets of our capital city: the second this month and every bit as sickening as those that have come before," May told reporters outside her Downing Street office.

"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship," said May who later visited the mosque.

The attack is the fourth since March in Britain and the third to involve a vehicle deliberately driven at pedestrians.

It also comes at a tumultuous time for the government with Britain starting complex divorce talks with the European Union and May negotiating with a small Northern Irish party to stay in power after losing her parliamentary majority following a snap election.

Driver detained

The mosques' worshippers, who come mainly from North and West Africa, had just left special prayers during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Abdulrahman Aidroos said he and his friends had been tending an old man who had suffered a heart attack when the van was driven at them.

"He was saying 'I wanna kill more people, I wanna kill more Muslims'," Aidroos told BBC TV. He said he had helped tackle and detain the driver while other witnesses said the imam had stepped in to ensure the man was not harmed.

"Their restraint in the circumstances was commendable," said Neil Basu, senior national co-ordinator for counter-terrorism policing. The man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and police said they believed he had acted alone.

"I would like to ... thank our imam, Mohammed Mahmoud, whose bravery and courage helped calm the immediate situation after the incident and prevented further injuries and potential loss of life," said Toufik Kacimi, the chief executive of the Muslim Welfare House.

Police said 10 people were injured, with eight taken to hospital, two in a very serious condition.

The man who was being given first aid at the scene before the attack had died but it was not clear whether his death was directly linked.

Usain Ali, 28, said he heard a bang and ran for his life.

"When I looked back, I thought it was a car accident, but people were shouting, screaming and I realised this was a man choosing to terrorise people who are praying," he said. "He chose exactly the time that people pray, and the mosque is too small and full, so some pray outside".



Political turmoil

Just over two weeks ago three Islamist militants drove into pedestrians on London Bridge and stabbed people at nearby restaurants and bars, killing eight.

The latest incident also follows a suicide bombing at a pop concert in Manchester, northern England, in May which killed 22, while in March, a man drove a rented car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in London and stabbed a policeman to death before being shot dead. His attack killed five people.

May, weakened after losing her parliamentary majority in a June 8 election she had called to strengthen her hand in Brexit talks, has faced criticism for her record on security after the previous series of attacks blamed on Islamist militants.

She has also been criticised for her response to a fire in a London tower block last Wednesday that killed at least 79 people.

"Todays attack falls at a difficult time in the life of this city, following on from the attack on London Bridge two weeks ago and of course the unimaginable tragedy of Grenfell Tower last week," May said.

She promised action to stamp out all forms of hatred, saying there had been far too much tolerance of extremism in Britain over many years.

Police had said hate crimes rose after the London Bridge attack and more officers would be deployed to provide reassurance to mosques.

The Muslim Council of Britain said Monday's attack was the most violent manifestation of Islamophobia in Britain in recent months and called for extra security at places of worship.

Finsbury Park Mosque said it was a "callous terrorist attack" and noted it had occurred almost exactly a year after a man obsessed with Nazis and extreme right-wing ideology murdered lawmaker Jo Cox, a former humanitarian aid worker.

The mosque itself gained notoriety more than a decade ago for sermons by radical cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, who was sentenced to life in a US prison in January 2015 after being convicted of terrorism-related charges.

However, a new board of trustees and management took over in February 2005, a year after Abu Hamza was arrested by British police, since when attendance has greatly increased among worshippers from various communities, according to the mosque's website.  Reuters
Beirut, June 19

An American fighter jet has for the first time downed a Syrian warplane that Washington accused of attacking US-backed fighters, in a new escalation between the United States and regime forces.

The incident further complicates the countrys six-year war and comes as a US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Government ally Iran also on Sunday launched missiles from its territory against alleged IS positions in eastern Syria for the first time, in response to an IS-claimed attack in Tehran.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al-Assads regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, but warn that the risks are high in Syrias increasingly crowded battlefields.

The Syrian jet was shot down on Sunday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against IS, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7:00 pm as it dropped bombs near SDF fighters south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces.

Syrias army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group.

It warned of the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression.

Regime ally Moscow also condemned the downing of the Syrian plane, with deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov saying: This strike has to be seen as a continuation of Americas line to disregard the norms of international law...

What is this if not an act of aggression? The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syrias north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital. It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syrias eastern border.  AFP
A lawyer from the state Department of Justice was appointed Monday to a vacant Dane County judicial post.

Assistant Attorney General Timothy Samuelson was appointed by Gov. Scott Walker to replace retired Dane County Circuit Judge John Markson, who left this month after nearly 10 years as judge for Branch 1.

There was no immediate word on whether Samuelson intends to run for a full six-year term next spring.

Samuelson, who lives in Middleton, is a 1998 graduate of the Indiana University School of Law, and received his undergraduate degree from Valparaiso University.

Samuelson has been with the Department of Justice (DOJ) since 2012.

During that time, he has been director of the Medicaid Fraud Control and Elder Abuse Unit, and was deputy director for the Special Litigation and Appeals Unit.

Samuelson was also one of the state DOJ lawyers who in 2014 argued in U.S. District Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit in favor of maintaining a ban on gay marriage in Wisconsin.

Samuelson was a finalist last year to be administrator of the state Ethics Commission, a job that went to Brian Bell.

Before coming to DOJ, Samuelson worked for two Chicago law firms: Schopf & Weiss and Iwan Cray Huber Horstman & VanAusdal.

In a statement, Walker described Samuelson as a hard-working, principled and respected attorney and said that his diverse legal background and respect for the rule of law assure me that he will make an excellent judge.
Picketers at XPO Logistics' port operations say port truck drivers should be classified as employees. Photo via Justice4PortDrivers Twitter

Southern California truck drivers and warehouse workers who serve the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach went on strike on June 19, protesting poor wages and labor practices.

The strike involves workers for Intermodal Bridge Transport, XPO Logistics, and California Cartage, and is just the latest in a series of wage and labor disputes surrounding the major Southern California ports complex.

In a letter from truckers to the clients of IBT that was released by the Teamsters Union, the drivers bring up the practice of hiring independent contractors to haul cargo to and from the ports as part of an illegal business model."

You cannot deny knowledge that your subcontractor is breaking the law as we have struck before, we have sent you letters, and the companys illegal behavior has been widely reported in the news media, the drivers stated.

The impact of the strike is expected to be minimal to the ports, according to the Harbor Trucking Association. Similar picketing actions have occurred as many as 15 times in the last three years, and security and port operations personnel are prepared.

Its not really a strike, its just ambulatory picketing and [the impact] tends to be minimal, Weston LaBar, executive director for the HTA, told HDT in an interview. "The most Ive seen a dozen picketers at one terminal, most of them have single digits or no picketers whatsoever.

The driver misclassification issue cited by the protesters argues that although the port trucking companies classify their drivers as independent contractors, they are not truly independent from the companies they work for and should be classified as company employees and given requisite benefits and wages. This has led to several lawsuits from drivers over what they say are unpaid wages, costing port trucking companies millions of dollars in some cases. However, the Trump Administration recently rolled back Obama Administration Department of Labor guidance that had helped opened the floodgates on prosecuting misclassification cases.

The independent contractor drivers at the ports lease their vehicles from the companies they work for and are required to pay for maintenance and insurance on those same vehicles, while gaining no equity or working toward eventually owning the truck.

In an investigative reporting USA Today expose last week, the newspaper uncovered the extremes of this working relationship, finding that some drivers were working long hours and taking home very little  in some cases none  of their paychecks after their lease payments and other expenses were deducted. The report claimed that in some cases drivers were being forced to work as much as 20 hours in a day, far past the maximum allowed by law, drivers alleging that their supervisors threatened to take their jobs or assigning lower-paying routes as punishment if they did not.

A screenshot from USA Today's investigative report on Southern California port drivers.

Representatives from the Harbor Trucking Association and a few port companies responded to USA Today, contesting the allegations of abuse and characterizing some of it as an attempt by unions to organize port workers.

In the report, USA Today found that many drivers were poor immigrants who paid nearly all of their paychecks to the trucking companies to keep their vehicles. In one reported case, a driver brought home only 67 cents of his paycheck for a week's work. In some cases missed time or vehicle payments could also mean termination and the loss of the leased truck.

However, the HTA told HDT that the cases in the USA Today report were cherry-picked for their extremeness or were not completely explained. For instance, LaBar said some of the complaints were coming from drivers who were not driving full time, which made it very hard to afford "basically the lease on your office," in reference to the leased vehicles.

"We've been dealing with this narrative for a long time; we feel that there has been a lot of latitude taken in the drawing of conclusions for some of these," said LaBar of the USA Today report. "It focuses on a very small subset of the industry, and what we forget to point out is the 90-plus percent of drivers who prefer to be independent contractors and have made that business model work."

The tough economics of the port are undeniable. The market dictates that work goes to the lowest bidder, according to the USA Today report, meaning a razor's edge for margins for companies or drivers transporting cargo.

Port drivers are also more unlikely to be able to buy a vehicle on their own thanks to emissions regulations requiring the use of newer, cleaner vehicles. For years, port truckers used old trucks to keep down costs of working at the ports as independent contractors, according to USA Today. However, environmental regulations have made it impossible for drivers to continue maintaining and using these old vehicles. That's why many trucking companies stepped in and bought cleaner trucks and leased them to their contractor drivers.

From the HDT news archives: L.A. Harbor Commission Approves Controversial Clean Truck Program (2008)

"What happens when you go from a $10,000 piece of equipment to a $100,000-plus piece of equipment, sometimes the companies had to issue lines of credit for the drivers to stay in the industry," explained LaBar of what happened after the Clean Trucks Program went into effect at the ports. "It created an interesting turning point for the industry, but the industry is pretty adaptive and was able to figure out how to make it work, and for many people it had great success."

New regulations continue to put pressure on companies and drivers to use the latest equipment. As recently as June 12, the mayors of Los Angeles and Long Beach signed a new pledge to reach zero emissions by 2035. This has spurred investment in alternative fuels and electric vehicles from companies such as Mack, Toyota, Kenworth, BYD, and Volvo Trucks North America. But how much more expensive that equipment will be is as yet unknown.

In an LA Times report on the strike, a representative from the Teamsters Local 848 told the newspaper that while the union supports the zero-emissions goal, the deal made no mention of its impact on drivers.
GLENPOOL  Wal-Marts latest effort to become a click-and-mortar retailer is an orange, octagon-shaped column that stands 16 feet high and about 8 feet wide and functions as an oversized vending machine.

The new pickup kiosk towers over the nearby self-checkout counters by the entrance of the Glenpool Wal-Mart Supercenter. Wal-Mart hopes the new piece of heavy machinery will increase customers convenience and use of Walmart.com.

Customers can come in, scan a bar code sent to their phone after placing an online order 24 hours or more in advance. After the machine reads the code, a door about the same size as an ovens door opens. A revolving belt pushes the item to a place where the customer can grab it. The whole process takes about 45 seconds.

When the World visited the Glenpool store Monday morning, shoppers entering the store looked at the tower but none approached, heading instead into the store to shop for themselves.

Store co-manager Rudy Shanklin said he expects it will take some time before shoppers start using the new service regularly. The kiosk is the only one operating in Oklahoma, the company says. It will only dispense general merchandise for the foreseeable future.

The Glenpool location, according to Shanklin, is often a part of the first wave of e-commerce enhancements at physical stores. He said the new pickup kiosk is about remaining competitive in the digital age.

Signs of Wal-Marts efforts to integrate digital and physical commerce in Glenpool extended beyond the tower kiosk, the orange lockers and four chairs surrounding it.

Outside the store, theres a waiting area  also denoted by orange coloring  for customers to pick up grocery orders.

Grocery pickup came to the Tulsa-area in the fall of 2015. At the registers, customers have the option to pay using the Wal-Mart mobile application.

Wal-Mart is testing having store associates deliver packages the last mile, it said at its annual meeting. Throughout the meetings media events earlier this month, the companys executives emphasized the mega-retailers digital endeavors and how it was moving at the speed of a startup.

Mondays unveiling of the pickup kiosk comes after a Friday announcement from a key Wal-Mart competitor: Amazon.

Amazon, the e-commerce giant, said it was planning to buy organic grocer Whole Foods in an all-cash deal. The acquisition, if completed, would give Amazon a foothold in the grocery space with more than 460 stores across the U.S., Canada and United Kingdom. There are two Whole Foods stores in Tulsa  one in Brookside and another in south Tulsa.

Nearly lost in the shuffle amid the Amazon and Whole Foods union was Wal-Marts announcement that it was buying online apparel retailer Bonobos, which is the latest in a series of e-commerce acquisitions for Wal-Mart.

E-commerce aside, Wal-Mart dwarfs Amazon in terms of net sales. For the 2017 fiscal year, Wal-Mart had net sales of $481 billion compared to the about $136 billion in net sales Amazon had for all of 2016, according to their respective annual filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. However, Amazon has seen revenue grow each of the past three years while Wal-Marts has stayed roughly flat.

Wall Street has taken notice of Amazons growing revenue. Over the past five years, the companys stock has seen a return of 346 percent. Wal-Mart stock, by comparison, has seen about a 12 percent return since 2012.

Fred Russell of Fredric E. Russell Investment Management Co. said the rapid growth of Amazons revenue and the convenience of online shopping are two of the reasons investors favor Amazon.

Its going to be difficult for Wal-Mart to catch up. They may provide some competition because they have a lot of revenue, said Russell.

A very small percentage of its revenues is online.  The fact that they have that kiosk  shows you they have awakened.

Wal-Mart would not say if its hoping for a certain ratio of online pickup orders compared to in-store shoppers.

Anne Hatfield, Wal-Mart spokeswoman, said in a statement: This is about offering choice and convenience so customers can shop how, when and where they want. The Pickup Tower is one more way customers can save time, which is so very important to customers today.
After being escorted out of the hospital, the man got into his vehicle and rammed into a security vehicle. He then sped toward the security officers, attempting to hit them, and the officers "fired one shot each at the vehicle in self-defense," Saint Francis said in a press statement.
Nine students from East High School are now in Kenya in pursuit of a life-changing experience.

Im personally goingto become more aware of what other cultures go through and honestly (hope) to be more grateful for what we have, said Mwezi OMalley, who will be a senior this fall, during an interview this spring prior to the trip. What they have to teach us is more valuable.

The students, who had just finished 10th or 11th grade, left for Kenya June 14 and are to come back July 1.

We want them to be leaders when they come back. Its not just a trip, said Leigh Vierstra, project coordinator and social studies/ESL teacher at East. Its all about cultural exchange and learning about new perspectives.

The students are taking part in a PA-MOJA program, which is named after the Swahili word for together. PA-MOJA is a Canada-based charitable organization that helps Kenyan children go to school. It also supports the conservation efforts of the Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy in the Laikipia region of Kenya through a partnership.

The East students are spending time with students from the Malek Secondary School in Laikipia, Kenya, through a sister school relationship. The experience is designed to be an exchange of information and a chance to work together to solve problems.

They are there to learn and listen and not be an expert, said Vierstra, who hopes Kenyan students will visit here in the future.

This is Vierstras fifth trip to Kenya and her second year taking East students through the PA-MOJA program. The trip costs $4,000 per student but the cost is reduced through fundraising and grants so that economically disadvantaged students can participate.

Wesley R.L. Underhill, who will be a senior, said he was interested in exploring his African roots and leaving a part of himself there. Rachael Muldrow, who will be a junior, said the experience is a chance to see another part of the world through a trip she couldnt otherwise afford.

Before the students left, they Skyped with students in their sister school and took part in a number of activities, many of them centered on team building.

The students also met with Lesley Sager, assistant faculty associate in the design studies department of the School of Human Ecology at UW Madison, and some university students who took part in the study-abroad program, UW Design Studies in Kenya, which she led. The college students talked about their experiences there and the East students did an exercise that involved cutting out magazine pictures that depict things teenagers value.

We were tasked with helping them think about what is considered an asset here and in Kenya, Sager said. The goal was to (realize) that it was not all that different.

Before the trip, East students chose an area of interest to explore and will share their knowledge when they return.

Lukas Ellenbolt, who will be a senior, chose conservation.

His mother, Kristin Mathews, said the trip fits his love of the outdoors and is a chance for him to learn outside of a traditional setting, which suits him better.

Hes smiling a bigger smile than Ive ever seen him smile, Mathews said of the photos he has posted from the trip on Facebook. It is going to bring him back (as) a changed person.

For details on how to contribute to the program, contact Vierstra at lkvierstra@madison.k12.wi.us.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story and photo captions has been changed to correct the spellings of Rachael Muldrow and Jorge Ramirez-Centeno.
Mat Brainerd was an admitted Waite Phillips fan long before he moved into Philtower.

When he took over the top three floors of Philtower to house his company, Brainerd Chemical Co., he had a passion for a special project.

Re-creating this office into an exact replica of what it looked like when Waite Phillips moved into his office in 1928 became a labor of love for me, said Brainerd. This is a piece of history, a very important piece of history for not only Tulsa but the state and the country.

Tulsans are an interesting breed. We are passionate about our city. We are passionate about our history.

So Brainerd started a five-year project to re-create, down the tiniest details, the Waite Phillips office on the 26th floor of Philtower.

It is now complete.

And Im delighted, said Brainerd. All of the people involved did an absolutely fantastic job. We wanted to be exactly like it was in 1927 when this was the tallest building in Oklahoma and one of the most fantastic buildings in the country.

Obviously, I work here, so we had to make some concessions to modern technology. But we were faithful to the original design down to the smallest detail.

Brainerd had plenty of help to re-create the space on the 26th floor that included a reception area and seven offices (including the Waite Phillips office). There were blueprints and architectural records. There were dozens of photographs.

Tulsa interior designer Margaret Ferrell worked with Brainerd to re-create the original offices. She started out looking for antiques to match original furniture and work.

But antiques are old and fragile, said Brainerd, a lifelong Tulsan.

So, in some areas, where original furnishings and work wasnt available, replicas had to be done.

Most of the re-created rooms feature pictures of the original rooms. You would be hard-pressed to find anything that doesnt look exactly like the original.

The renovation cost totaled north of $1 million, according to Brainerd, but the results are remarkable.

The first glimpse of the offices, as you get off the elevators, is stunning. You are greeted by a reception area that is highlighted by a giant buffalo head, buffalo skin on the floor, ironwork separating offices from reception and spectacularly intricate floor and wall tiles.

The first time I walked in here, it was concrete floors and almost everything had been changed out, said Brainerd. But I knew this was a special place.

So I wanted it. I signed the lease and immediately went to work to re-create this office.

Were talking about every last little detail. The biggest and most difficult task was figuring out how to re-create the intricate tiles throughout the offices.

They worked with tile artisans around the country before a company in Mexico finally replicated the tiles down to the smallest details. Then, an artist spent almost four months handpainting every tile with the designs.

After 18 months, the finished product cost nearly $500 per tile.

It was a huge project, but we felt it was worth it to get it right, said Brainerd. Then, when we finally were ready, we had a guy lay the tile and suddenly we found it didnt quite fit.

In the end, we found out that the size of the elevator doors had changed over the years (because of ADA federal regulations) so the tiles didnt exactly fit. We made a small adjustment on one tile and it worked. It is hard to spot it (it is midway over the elevator doors).

There was also furniture that was no longer available.

We looked for antiques, but, again, it was better to re-create, said Brainerd.

A custom furniture company in Dallas was hired to build desks and chairs for seven offices. The $350,000 commission included intricate carvings on some of the desks, chairs and walls.

The project includes some concessions to modern technology. Brainerds desk is an identical replica of the Waite Phillips desk, down to the ink wells, except for the two computer screens that rise out of the top of the desk at the push of a button (imagine the television rising out of the foot of James Bonds bed).

I run a modern business, so we had to design something where I could hide the computers and phones, said Brainerd. It is all in the desk.

There are even two paintings in the corner of the office that are exact replicas of paintings that used to hang in Phillips office but are now part of the permanent collection at Villa Philmonte, a museum at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, another former Waite Phillips property.

So Brainerd had the paintings photographed, printed on canvas and then painted by a local artist to get the look of the original.

The intricate woodwork around the fireplace in the office is original but had to be reworked. A fireplace cover, with an original piece of copper art, was replicated by an artisan in Mannford.

The bathroom has original fixtures.

Where we could save things, we did, said Brainerd. Where we couldnt, we re-created.

It was important to me to get it right. So we studied all of the blueprints and plans and photographs we could find.

Brainerd even went so far as to position his family pictures, all in black-and-white, in the original spots and frames. Brainerds son was wearing a 100-year-old Boy Scout uniform for the photo that sits on a table with a photo of his daughter wearing a dress from the 1920s.

Although the office is an important piece of Tulsa history, it is not a museum.

This is a business, but I wanted to be true to the history, said Brainerd. Occasionally, well have some people come through and see this place. We had a bunch of Philmont Scout Ranch staff come through here last fall as we were finishing things up.

And the Philmont folks are going to come back next year. But this is a place of business. It just so happens to be located in a very, very historic spot in Tulsa.
Tulsa police have arrested a Claremore man on allegations that he beat a woman, forced her into his car, nearly ran over five children while fleeing, crashed the vehicle and then fled on foot.

Richard Marzar, 32, allegedly kicked and punched a woman in the stomach and face Saturday evening at the Brightwater Apartments in the 2100 block of South Olympia Avenue.

He then forced the woman into his vehicle and sped away, according to a probable cause affidavit. Police allege Marzar attempted to run over a group of children while he sped from the complex, coming within a foot of hitting them.

Marzar was booked into Tulsa Jail on complaints of domestic assault and battery, five complaints of assault with a deadly weapon, and several traffic violations, according to records. He is being held in lieu of a $146,400 bond.
Correction: This story originally misstated the service dates for Froning. The story has been corrected.

It wasnt Japanese fighters that worried Bob Froning during his stint protecting a bay from submarines during the Battle of Okinawa. Nor was it the fact he was sailing on the smallest commissioned ship in the Naval fleet, which was made of wood.

I never thought of it, he said.

It was more the typhoons and the chance hed accidentally run his ship aground  or be taken out by friendly fire. He saw more than his fair share of each of those.

To this day, reports of friendly fire really distress me, Froning, now 95, wrote about his military service.

Froning, a longtime Bixby resident, served in the Navy from 1944 to 1946 and was in the Naval Reserves until 1950. During World War II, he served in the Pacific on the USS SC-668, an antisubmarine vessel. Froning shared his story with the Tulsa World for an ongoing series on local veterans experiences.

Prior to joining the military, Froning had heard they were in need of scientists, specifically chemists, and so he became one. However, after theyd recruited enough for the atomic bomb project, the military shifted its focus.

I guess I felt a sense of duty, Froning said. And the draft. Once they did not need chemists and scientists, then they needed manpower.

Fronings military career took him from Kansas, where he was born, to New York, California, Hawaii and a handful of atolls and islands in the Pacific Ocean, among other places.

When Froning first boarded his ship, a wooden subchaser, he was surprised by what he found: an infestation of roaches and rats.

When I got to the ship, it wasnt what I had expected. I was always told the Navy did everything right, and so forth. ... It was not a regulation ship, to say the least, he said.

Froning liked his shipmates and admired the leadership on board, but he said many were disappointed they were still fighting the war because when theyd first deployed on the ship years earlier, theyd been told theyd be done in six months.

The crew was very ingenious, and about as savvy a crew as you could find  but not highly motivated, he said.

One of Fronings most vivid memories is paddling to a Japanese island with his shipmates on a commandeered dugout canoe.

Once ashore, they stumbled upon the body of a dead Japanese man and a Japanese flag soaked in sake. Froning keeps the flag in his home. Its covered in Japanese writing, but he doesnt know what it says.

Also on shore, Froning found a small card with the phrase, Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

It was amazing to me in an area that was all Japanese and not even a mainland area, a little village, to see in English, Nothing ventured, nothing gained. It just kind of amazed me, he said.

The phrase has stuck with him, and he said hed recall it later in his professional life when taking risks.

Fronings only combat experience during his stint in the Pacific was one long battle, among the longest and bloodiest of World War II: the Battle of Okinawa.

For the rest of World War II, Froning and his shipmates had orders to guard the entrance to Nakagusuku-Wan, known to him as Buckner Bay, on the small island.

Although no submarine ever tried to enter, as far as he knew, it was his experiences in that bay that stuck with him most. He specifically remembers the dark, black nights and the stars that would transfix him.

He also weathered two typhoons there in 1945.

I was told we have a 50 percent chance (of survival). I have a pretty strong Christian faith, from my parents and family, and I felt wed come through, he said about the first typhoon.

In a letter to his parents afterward he said, All in all, I would say that the experience was very different and perhaps interesting, but once was definitely enough.

To this day, Froning said hes still bothered by friendly fire casualties. Theyre an oft-overlooked aspect of war, he said. He recalled approaching the Kerama Retto atoll for repair and hearing over the radio another Navy ship was sending out an observation plane.

A patrolling destroyer brought it down with a single shot of friendly fire.

Once they entered the bay, Froning found out why the gunmen had been so quick on the trigger. The ship had recently been hit by multiple kamikazes, or suicide planes.

Looking back at his career in the Navy, Froning said it was the most intense experience of his life, but it also taught him invaluable lessons, like learning to work with what he has and working with different types of people.

It was not a typical Navy ship, but a laboratory of life, he wrote about the USS SC 688. I have never regretted the experiences.
UK comedy Wasted will premiere next month on Syfy.

The series, which has been likened to Spaced Out, surrounds a series of old school friends getting stoned or drunk and includes an appearance by Sean Bean.

This premiered in the UK a year ago. There are 6 episodes all up.

This surreal slacker comedy set in West country village of Neston Berry, sees the return of Kent, after he fails to make it as a DJ, where he reunites with his school friends, Morpheus, Sarah and Alison.

They reside at Stoned Henge a souvenir shop/tattoo parlour and have various aimless low-key adventures while trying to stave off boredom, which mostly involve getting drunk or smoking cannabis.

The twenty-something friends lives are changed forever by the appearance of Sean Bean, who plays Morpheus imaginary spirit guide, dressed as his role from Game of Thrones.

8:30pm Tuesday July 18 on Syfy
Foreign Correspondent visits San Francisco-based Planet which is working to photograph the entire surface of the Earth, every single day.

A new space race is on, as tech companies rush to launch thousands of tiny satellites that will tell us more about whats happening on our planet than ever before. But will the information be used for good, or for harm?

Satellites were bigger than buses. Now theyre coming in shoe-box size, weighing just a few kilos and with an extremely cheap price to match.

Nanosats are about to revolutionise space.

Were essentially building a time machine  Rob Simmon, data visualiser, Planet space company

Using smartphone technology, and then some, the plan is for constellations of nanosats to photograph the entire surface of the Earth, every single day. Over time they will yield a rich and growing narrative about whats happening where, and whos doing it.

For better or worse, it will change how people behave  Micah Walter-Range, Space Foundation

Foreign Correspondent producer Mark Corcoran drops in on the space geeks from Planet, the acknowledged leader in a pack of nanosat start-ups, to discover what the very near future in space will look like.

In true tech start-up style, it took just four years for San Francisco-based Planet to go from a backyard garage obsession to launching satellites from the International Space Station. The worlds largest imagery satellite network is now run from Planet HQ  a hoodie and sneaker-populated warehouse on the grungy side of town.

Daily global imaging opens a suite of possibilities tracking deforestation, sea trade and illegal fishing, measuring natural disasters and, for some, the most useful tool of all, spying on noxious regimes. Americas spies were so impressed, they hired Planet.

Planets objective is to image the landmass of earth every day For somebody in my profession thats very exciting  Robert Cardillo, Director, US National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

There are restrictions on how data is used. Planet can only sell to customers that are ticked by the US Government. But who might they be? For the wider industry there are big ethical issues at play. Where does privacy stop and start? And

What if someone is using that information for criminal purposes or to harm another person? This is something that the industry is going to have to deal with at some point in the relatively near future  Micah Walter-Range, Space Foundation

And is there enough space in space? Planet says its all-seeing constellation will eventually self-destruct, but some scientists fear an influx of nanosats will just add to the mass of space junk that already threatens existing satellites and the International Space Station.

Theres no doubting that the nanosat boom has vast potential for good. But as Mark Corcorans story shows, technological advances like this can bowl up ethical curve balls.

9.30pm Tuesday June 20 on ABC.
Legal argument got underway in the Victorian Supreme Court today in the Rebel Wilson v Bauer Media defamation case.

On Thursday the actress won a profile defamation case against the magazine empire following a series of articles she claimed portrayed her as a serial liar.

Today Bauer tried to have evidence from Hollywood heavyweight Peter Principato, whose clients have included Jonah Hill and Will Arnett, excluded.

Principato has said the articles were published Wilson should have been commanding in excess of $6 million a film, following her success in Pitch Perfect 2.

But Georgina Schoff, QC, for Bauer questioned the direct link to the articles and said there could be a number of factors at play.

On suggestions Wilson lost a role in Snatched to Amy Schumer, she said, Maybe Ms Schumer was cheaper, there may be any number of reasons why Ms Schumer was more appropriate.

Since her win, other celebs including Russell Crowe, Shane Warne, Delta Goodrem and Lleyton Hewitt have all tweeted their support to Wilson.

Wilson, who did not attend court today, has told media the case was not about the money.

The case resumes on Wednesday.

Source: Herald Sun

Photo: Rebel Wilson
Queensland Premier & Minister for the Arts Annastacia Palaszczuk is in the US as part of a trade mission to lure more Hollywood productions down under.

She will meet with key production companies and studios to follow from recent titles, Pirates of the Carribean: Dead Men Tell No Lies, Thor: Ragnarok and Aquaman.

You cant get new overseas investment in Queensland by staying in Queensland, she said.

Thats why Im going to talk directly to potential investors and get more investment dollars for our state and more jobs.

Netflix recently announced Tidelands would film in the Sunshine state while Safe Harbour is currently filming for SBS.

Source: AAP
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi meets with trainee medical technician James Koat who fled to a camp in Bentiu three years ago after fighting broke out in his hometown in South Sudan's Unity State.  UNHCR/Petterik Wiggers

BENTIU, South Sudan  After fighting broke out in his hometown in South Sudans Unity State, trainee medical technician James Koat fled to a protection site in Bentiu for temporary respite. Three years later he is still here, too afraid to go home.

I told my family that I had to escape and get them something to eat, but once I came here Ive never gone back," he said. "Here I am safe."

The site where he sought refuge is now the largest in South Sudan, hosting more than 120,000 men, women and children like him, fleeing violence and growing hunger with more arriving every day.

I am afraid to go back because there is not enough security, enough protection.

"Look around us here today, in South Sudan, when you ask them 'why are you not in your homes, why have you been away from your homes?' the first word that will always come is 'fear," UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said during a weekend visit to the site.

"'I am afraid to go back because there is not enough security, enough protection.'

South Sudan: High Commissioner visits displaced families

A report published today by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, found that there were 65.6 million people forcibly displaced worldwide at the end of 2016, the highest number since UNHCR was founded in 1950.

The biggest new factor last year was South Sudan, the world's youngest country where the disastrous breakdown of peace efforts last July contributed to the outflow of 739,900 people by the end of the year. As the conflict and hunger grew, that number has soared to 1.87 million today.

"If there is no security, there is no point," Grandi said, after meeting and talking to displaced families at the protection of civilians site about their needs. "The theme of security is very prevailing here."

Im grateful because my children and I are safe and will have a house and good place to sleep."

With violence raging on the outside, and massive overcrowding in the site, UNHCR and humanitarian partners are struggling to provide basic needs such as water, food and medical care.

While in Bentiu, the High Commissioner also visited a new site where hundreds of displaced people have been given small plots of land to build more permanent shelters, as well as supply kits that include solar lamps, cooking supplies and soap.

Among displaced people living there is Anjelina, who fled her home with her three children two years ago, first settling in one of the protection sites. Two weeks ago, she and her children moved to this new site. She said she was feeling hopeful for the first time in years.

Im grateful because my children and I are safe and will have a house and good place to sleep, she said.

A group of children play at at a site for displaced people in Bentiu, South Sudan.  UNHCR/Petterik Wiggers

Internally displaced people after a distribution at a site in Bentiu, South Sudan.  UNHCR/Petterik Wiggers

Sarah Katonga (Pink skirt) is an internally displaced woman from South Sudan, now living in a site for displaced people in Juba.  UNHCR/Petterik Wiggers

There are plans to expand the programme and open similar sites throughout the country to give assistance and hope to millions of displaced people, although both hope and cash are in short supply.

We try in this situation to provide them not only with the basics of life, but a sense of the future, said the High Commissioner. This is what is missing the most. Not only for the refugees and displaced from South Sudan, but for the nearly 66 million displaced around the world.

We try in this situation to provide them not only with the basics of life, but a sense of the future.

Before the war, James was studying to become a lab technician, but like millions of others, the conflict has put his life and dreams on hold.

I want to see peace in South Sudan so people can go back to normal life, can go back to school and go back to their normal economic activities, he said.

Grandi, who is in the African country on a three-day visit that has also taken him to the capital, Juba, said that while assistance was urgently needed now, peace was the only lasting solution for the millions displaced from South Sudan and all the worlds largest conflicts.

We need to become able to make peace again, he said. Wherever Ive been, this is the cry of people: 'we want peace, we want peace.'

Grandi plans to make a strong appeal for an increase in peace efforts at the Solidarity Summit on Refugees in Uganda this week. The summit will bring together about 500 participants, including heads of government, UN and financial institutions, and non-governmental organizations.
War, violence and persecution worldwide are causing more people than ever to be forcibly displaced, according to a report published today by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.

UNHCRs new Global Trends report, the organizations major annual survey of the state of displacement, says that at the end of 2016 there were 65.6 million people forcibly displaced worldwide  some 300,000 more than a year earlier. This total represents an enormous number of people needing protection worldwide.

The figure of 65.6 million comprises three important components. First is refugee numbers, which at 22.5 million are the highest ever seen. Of these, 17.2 million come under the responsibility of UNHCR, and the remainder are Palestinian refugees registered with our sister-organization UNRWA. Syrias conflict remains the worlds biggest producer of refugees (5.5 million), however in 2016 the biggest new factor was South Sudan where the disastrous breakdown of peace efforts in July of that year contributed to the outflow of 739,900 people by years end (1.87 million today).

Second is displacement of people inside their own countries, whose numbers were 40.3 million at the end of 2016 compared to 40.8 million a year earlier. Syria, Iraq, and the still very significant displacement inside Colombia were the biggest internal displacement situations, nonetheless the problem of internal displacement is a worldwide one and accounts for almost two thirds of the global forced displacement total.

Third is asylum seekers, people who have fled their country and are seeking international protection as refugees. As of the end of 2016 the number of people seeking asylum globally was 2.8 million.

This adds up to an immense human cost of war and persecution globally: 65.6 million means that on average one in every 113 people worldwide is today someone who is displaced  a population bigger than that of the worlds 21st most populous country, the United Kingdom.

By any measure this is an unacceptable number, and it speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, and ensuring together that the worlds refugees, internally displaced and asylum seekers are properly protected and cared for while solutions are pursued, said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. We have to do better for these people. For a world in conflict, what is needed is determination and courage, not fear.

Among the reports key findings, is that new displacement in particular remains very high. Of the 65.6 million people forcibly displaced globally, 10.3 million became displaced in 2016, about two-thirds of them (6.9 million) fleeing within their own countries. This equates to one person becoming displaced every 3 seconds  less than the time it takes to read this sentence.

At the same time, returns of refugees and internally displaced people to their homes, combined with other solutions such as resettlement in third countries meant that for some, 2016 brought the prospect of improvement. Some 37 countries together accepted 189,300 refugees for resettlement. Around half a million other refugees were able to return to their home countries, and about 6.5 million internally displaced people to their areas of origin - although many did so in less than ideal circumstances and facing uncertain prospects.

Worldwide, most refugees  84 per cent  were in low- or middle-income countries as of end 2016, with one in every three (4.9 million people) being hosted by the least developed countries. This huge imbalance reflects several things including the continuing lack of consensus internationally when it comes to refugee hosting and the proximity of many poor countries to regions of conflict. It also illustrates the need for countries and communities supporting refugees and other displaced people to be robustly resourced and supported  the absence of which can create instability, have consequences for life-saving humanitarian work, or lead to secondary displacement.

By population, Syria still accounts for the biggest numbers of displaced people overall, with 12 million people (almost two thirds of the population) either displaced internally or having fled abroad as refugees or asylum seekers. Leaving aside the long-standing Palestinian refugee situation, Colombians (7.7 million) and Afghans (4.7 million) remained the second and third biggest population, followed by Iraqis (4.2 million) and South Sudanese (the worlds fastest growing displaced population with 3.3 million having fled their homes by the end of the year).

Children, who make up half the worlds refugees, continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the suffering, mainly because of their greater vulnerability. Tragically, 75,000 asylum claims were received from children travelling alone or separated from their parents. The report says even this number is likely to underestimate the true figure.

UNHCR estimates that at least 10 million people were without a nationality or at risk of statelessness at the end of 2016. However, data recorded by governments and communicated to UNHCR were limited to 3.2 million stateless people in 75 countries.

Global Trends is a statistical assessment of forced displacement, and as such a number of key developments in the refugee world in 2016 are not captured. These include increased politicization of asylum issues in many countries, and growing restrictions on access to protection measures in some regions, but also positive developments such as the historic summits on Refugees and Migrants in September 2016, the landmark New York Declaration that followed, the new all-of-society approach to managing displacement being pioneered under the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework, and the enormous generosity of host countries and donor governments alike towards refugees and other displaced populations.

UNHCR produces its Global Trends report annually based on its own data, the data it receives from its partner the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, and data it receives from governments.

****

Additional Information

Global Trends is being released on the eve of World Refugee Day 20th June.

For broadcasters, news organizations and other media professionals: A full multimedia content package, the full Global Trends report, and contact details for UNHCRs country and global spokespersons can be found on the Global Trends media page.
War, violence and persecution have uprooted more men, women and children around the world than at any time in the seven-decade history of UNHCR according to a report published today.

The UN Refugee Agency's annual Global Trends study found that 65.6 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide at the end of 2016  a total bigger than the population of the United Kingdom and about 300,000 more than last year.

It noted that the pace at which people are becoming displaced remains very high. On average, 20 people were driven from their homes every minute last year, or one every three seconds  less than the time it takes to read this sentence.

By any measure this is an unacceptable number." UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi

It speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, and ensuring together that the worlds refugees, internally displaced and asylum-seekers are properly protected and cared for while solutions are pursued.

UNHCR Global Trends: Forced Displacement in 2016

In each of the past five years, annual increases to the global displacement total have been in the millions. While the 2016 total is high  representing an enormous number of people needing protection worldwide  it also shows that growth in displacement slowed last year.

The total figure includes 40.3 million people uprooted within the borders of their own countries, about 500,000 fewer than in 2015. Meanwhile, the total number seeking asylum globally was 2.8 million, about 400,000 fewer than in the previous year.

However, the total seeking safety across international borders as refugees topped 22.5 million, the highest number seen since UNHCR was founded in 1950 in the aftermath of the Second World War.

My husband was killed in the war ... which made me decide to leave my home, everything, behind.

The conflict in Syria, now in its seventh year, was the worlds biggest producer of refugees (5.5 million). However in 2016 the biggest new factor was South Sudan, where the disastrous break-off of peace efforts in July of that year contributed to an outflow of 737,400 people by the end of the year. That number has continued to rise during the first half of 2017.

Nyawet Tut, a South Sudanese mother of five in her 30s, described how soldiers set fire to her village and she had to run for her life with her own five children and five others of relatives killed in the conflict.

My husband was killed in the war which, in addition to the shortage of food, made me decide to leave my home, everything, behind, she told UNHCR staff during an interview at a temporary way station in Ethiopia.

In terms of overall displacement, Syria still accounts for the biggest numbers, with 12 million people (65 per cent of the population) displaced internally or living outside the country as refugees.

Leaving aside the long-standing Palestinian refugee situation, Colombians (7.7 million) and Afghans (4.7 million) remained the second- and third-largest displaced populations, followed by Iraqis (4.2 million). In total, about 3.3 million South Sudanese had fled their homes by the end of the year, in what has become the fastest-growing displacement of people in the world.

South Sudanese refugee Nyawett, accompanied by 10 children, shortly after reaching Gure Shombola camp, in Ethiopia.  UNHCR/Diana Diaz

Syrian refugee Aya, 4, has spina bifida, meaning she is paralyzed from the waist down. She has been resettled in Laval, north-west France with her family.  UNHCR/Giles Duley

Eight-year-old unaccompanied minor Issa Aj sits alone in Fufore camp for internally displaced persons in Adamawa State, north-east Nigeria.  UNHCR/George Osodi

A Honduran family enters the town of La Tecnica, Guatemala, which lies across the Usumacinta River from Mexico.  UNHCR/Tito Herrera

Particularly heartbreaking is the plight of children, who make up half the worlds refugees, and continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the suffering, mainly because of their heightened vulnerability.

Tragically, 75,000 asylum claims were received from children travelling alone or separated from their parents, among them youngsters like Tareq, 16, who dodged armed combatants to walk out of Syria into neighbouring Turkey.

There was no future where we lived, he told UNHCR. There was no university and no work. There were troops grabbing young children like me, and they send them to war, and they get killed. I wanted to study.

Last year, much of the news coverage focused on refugee resettlement to developed countries, including efforts by some states to restrict access and even erect border barriers.

However, figures in the report showed that, worldwide, most refugees  84 per cent  were in developing or middle-income countries at the end of 2016, with one in every three (4.9 million people) being hosted by the worlds least developed countries.

"There were troops grabbing young children like me ... I wanted to study.

This huge imbalance reflects several things including the lack of consensus internationally when it comes to hosting refugees, and the proximity of many poor countries to regions of conflict.

It also illustrates the need for countries and communities supporting refugees and other displaced people to be properly resourced and supported, the absence of which can cause instability, have consequences for life-saving humanitarian work or lead to secondary displacement.

UNHCR estimates that at least 10 million people were without a nationality or at risk of statelessness at the end of 2016. However, data recorded by governments and communicated to UNHCR were limited to 3.2 million stateless people in 75 countries.

Faced with another year of a record displacement, devastating the lives of millions of men, women and children, one thing is clear: We have to do better for these people, Grandi said. For a world in conflict, what is needed is determination and courage, not fear.

(Additional reporting by Diana Diaz in Ethiopia)
Juggling work and social life is not an easy task. How much more if outside factors such as work get in the scene? Well, these celebrities probably know the secret. Certainly, sneaking study time in between taping hours required extra effort.

Laura Marano

Laura is known for her exceptional performance in "Austin & Ally". She graduated high school almost three years ago. Upon receiving her diploma, she admitted that she felt a mix of pride and gratitude. Laura noted that school definitely offers some of the "happiest moments" in life. Thus, no one should skip it.

Zendaya

University Herald earlier reported that Zendaya graduated from high school in 2015. The "K.C. Undercover" actress even shared that "knowledge is one of the most powerful gifts" on Earth. She then encouraged soon-to-be graduates to never lose hope. A lot of obstacles will come but everyone should just keep pushing through.

Rihanna

For one, she currently went to Malawi to personally experience the state of the education system in this landlocked nation. Rihanna visited schools in the rural countryside of Malawi last January. She worked with the Global Partnership for Education and Global Citizen. Riri's charity, Clara Lionel Foundation, hopes to improve the education system by partnering with local governments.

Emma Watson

Per J-14, Emma Watson shot the final two "Harry Potter" movies. She also starred in movies like "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" and the "The Bling Ring". All of these, she did while attending Brown University. However, she reportedly took a year-long break due to the struggle of balancing acting with campus life.

Bridget Mendler

The "Good Luck Charlie" star continued her career in showbiz while attending classes at the University of Southern California. While studying anthropology, she also continued working on her music as well. She received her degree in 2016. Bridget said she thinks that college life makes people wonder what sort of lifestyle they would live in the future.
Microsoft is said to be working on the Surface Phone. Tech experts are expecting the tech company to roll out the Microsoft Surface Phone sometime this year. Nonetheless, reports are claiming that Intel is heavily involved with the Surface Phone and that the Microsoft and the semiconductor manufacturing company aimed to make a handset that will link a phone as well as a mobile productivity device.

Microsoft's General Manager for Surface products, Ryan Gavin, talked about the new Surface line-up, including the brand-new Surface Laptop, Surface Studio and the overhauled Surface Pro. Aside from that, Gavin has pitched in an intriguing tidbit about the much awaited Surface Phone, Express reported.

Considering the Surface Phone as a part of the Surface Brand, the device will not resemble the typical smartphone in the market. Gavin stated that the company has various patents that proved Microsoft will roll out a foldable tablets that will also work as a smartphone, Windows Latest reported.

Nonetheless, it has been said that the Redmond, Washington tech titan had green-lit the release of the Surface Phone. Reports are claiming that Intel is heavily involved with the upcoming Microsoft mobile device.

In terms of the Microsoft Surface Phone specs, the handset is expected to be available with some really awesome features. The Microsoft Surface Phone will arrive with Windows 10 alongside some feature from Carl Zeiss. The device will have a 20MP rear shooter.

Microsoft's upcoming Surface Phone might come along with a 5.5-inch AMOLED display. The mobile device will boast a 4GB of RAM and a 64GB of internal storage, which is expandable up to 128GB through its microSD card. Tech enthusiasts and experts are expecting the Microsoft Surface Phone to pose as a tough rival to Google and Apple's flagship smartphones. It appears the Surface Phone will be among the best ones that Microsoft has to offer yet.

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UW Alumni Association Now Accepting Information for Homecoming Schedule

The University of Wyoming Alumni Association requests that campus departments inform the association about activities planned for Homecoming 2017.

Events will be listed online, in public calendars, in printed materials and publicity announcements. The deadline for submissions is Monday, Oct. 2.

Homecoming activities will take place Oct. 21-28, with the theme Wyoming Spirit, Wild as the West.

We are happy to provide publicity for anyone sponsoring an activity over Homecoming in which you would like to have alumni and general public involvement, says Emily Cain, special events coordinator at the UW Alumni Association.

For an entry form, click here. For more information, contact Cain at 766-6878 or ecain1@uwyo.edu.
UW Faculty Member Contributes to Research that Suggests Rainier Future

Zhien Wang, a UW professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science and the Templeton Faculty Fellow, was co-author of a recent Nature Communications paper that suggests that most global climate models may underestimate the amount of rain that will fall in Earths tropical regions as the Earth continues to warm. (UW Photo)

A University of Wyoming researcher played a key role in a new study that suggests that most global climate models may underestimate the amount of rain that will fall in Earths tropical regions as the Earth continues to warm. Thats because existing models underestimate decreases in high clouds over the tropics seen in recent NASA observations.

Global climate models need to represent many complex processes in order to predict future climate, says Zhien Wang, a UW professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science and the Templeton Faculty Fellow. Part of the processes control cloud and precipitation formation, which are not fully understood and represented in climate models; and introduce uncertainties in predicted future climate as the Earth continues to warm.

The new study, titled Tightening of Tropical Ascent and High Clouds Key to Precipitation Change in a Warmer Climate, was published earlier this month (June 7) in Nature Communications, an open access journal that publishes high-quality research in biology, physics, chemistry, Earth science and all related areas.

Hui Su, a scientist with NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, Calif., was the papers lead author. Wang was the papers co-author. Other contributing authors were from UCLA, Ewha Womens University in Seoul, South Korea, and the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences at the California Institute of Technology.

Regional precipitation changes accompanying anticipated global warming could exert profound impacts on ecosystems and human society, making the need for more accurate global climate models crucial and necessary, according to the paper.

The study points an important research direction to improve climate model reliability by better representing microphysical and dynamical processes controlling tropical cirrus (clouds), Wang says. Satellite and aircraft observations will continue to play a critical role in studying these processes. We are actively working in this research direction.

Wang says his contribution to the research is to prove one of NASAs data products used in the study. The data set is generated by combined cloud radar and LIDAR measurements from different satellites to provide high-resolved, high-cloud structure. Wang says this work has been funded continuously during the last 15 years by NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Fewer Clouds, More Rainfall

Logically, it could be asked, How do fewer clouds lead to more rainfall?

Globally, rainfall isnt related only to the clouds that are available to make rain but also to Earths energy budget, defined as incoming energy from the sun compared to outgoing heat energy. High-altitude tropical clouds trap heat in the atmosphere. If there are fewer of these clouds in the future, the tropical atmosphere will cool. Judging from observed changes in clouds over recent decades, it appears that the atmosphere would create fewer high clouds in response to surface warming. It also would increase tropical rainfall, which would warm the air to balance the cooling from the high cloud shrinkage.

Rainfall warming the air also sounds counterintuitive. Typically, people are used to rain cooling the air around them, not warming it. Several miles up in the atmosphere, however, a different process is occurring.

When water evaporates into water vapor on Earths surface and rises into the atmosphere, it carries with it the heat energy that made the water evaporate. In the cold upper atmosphere, when the water vapor condenses into liquid droplets or ice particles, it releases its heat and warms the atmosphere.

It puts the decrease in high tropical cloud cover in context as one result of a planet-wide shift in large-scale air flows that occurs as Earths surface temperature warms. These large-scale flows are called the atmospheric general circulation, and they include a wide zone of rising air centered on the equator. Observations over the last 30 to 40 years have shown that this zone is narrowing as the climate warms, causing the decrease in high clouds.

Su, her colleagues at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and at three other universities, compared climate data from the past few decades with 23 climate model simulations of the same period. Climate modelers use retrospective simulations like these to gauge how well their numerical models are able to reproduce observations. For data, the research group used observations of outgoing thermal radiation from NASAs space-borne Clouds and the Earths Radiant Energy System (CERES) and other satellite instruments, as well as ground-level observations.

Sus team found that most of the climate models underestimated the rate of increase in precipitation for each degree of surface warming that has occurred in recent decades. The models that came closest to matching observations of clouds in the present-day climate showed a greater precipitation increase for the future than the other models.

By tracing the underestimation problem back to the models deficiencies in representing tropical high clouds and the atmospheric general circulation, Su says, This study provides a pathway for improving predictions of future precipitation change.

Wang plans to use the Cheyenne supercomputer to run high-resolution models to better understand related physical processes, together with observations.

The improved understanding can be used to improve climate model representation in the future, Wang says.
Wyoming Conservation Corps Tackles Summer Projects

Wyoming Conservation Corps (WCC) members Chris Folsom and Lola Philips work on the Casper Rotary Club Park trail on Casper Mountain, one of the first WCC projects of this summer. (WCC Photo)

Projects ranging from building trails in the Shoshone and Bridger-Teton national forests in northwest Wyoming to building a yurt at Glendo State Park will be conducted this summer by members of the Wyoming Conservation Corps (WCC).

University of Wyoming students will gain valuable experience while developing leadership and outdoor skills on 24 projects, including trail maintenance and construction, fencing, boundary signs, noxious weed removal, beetle kill mitigation, tree planting, historic preservation and fuels reduction.

Administered by Residence Life and Dining Services in UWs Division of Student Affairs, WCC is a grant-supported program that engages students in conservation-based projects throughout the state, says Program Director Patrick Harrington.

Additionally, for the first time this year, the WCC includes a Wyoming Veterans Trail Crew (WyVTC), funded by Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources, Serve Wyoming, the Recreation Trails Program and Rocky Mountain Power. The crew -- composed of military veterans -- is involved in flagging new trails, digging in trail tread, constructing stone staircases, building turns for mountain bike trails, constructing bridges and using chainsaws to remove hazard trees.

Founded in 2006, the WCC continues the civil service tradition of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s and Youth Conservation Corps of the 1970s. Hundreds of students have completed projects relating to energy, wildlife, recreation, grazing, timber management, property restoration and maintenance, and water and air quality.

Projects being completed this summer by the WCC are:

May 29-June 7 -- Trails on Pole Mountain (Medicine Bow National Forest); trails at Casper Rotary Club Park; and tree planting near Laramie Peak.

June 12-21 -- Historic preservation and trail work at Fort Fetterman State Historic Site near Douglas; Pole Mountain (Medicine Bow National Forest); and pheromone pack installation and fuel mitigation at Sinks Canyon State Park near Lander.

June 26-July 5 -- Trails in the Shoshone National Forest; trails in the Bridger-Teton National Forest; trails and fencing for the Casper Biathlon Club; and yurt building at Glendo State Park.

July 10-19 -- Boundary work and wilderness improvements in the Red Desert; fencing at The Nature Conservancys Red Canyon Ranch near Lander; campsite restoration at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area; and fencing for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) near Casper.

July 24-Aug. 2 -- Trails on the state-owned Duncan Ranch near Glenrock; fence removal near Cody for The Nature Conservancy; and historic preservation for Fort Bridger State Historic Site.

Aug. 7-16 -- Fencing and native plant work for the BLM near Buffalo; fence removal for The Nature Conservancy near Cody; trails at Duncan Ranch; and trails at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.

WCC member Elling Mann works on a trail at Pole Mountain between Laramie and Cheyenne in the Medicine Bow National Forest. (WCC Photo)

WCC members, listed by hometown, are:

Crew leaders

Casper -- Madeline Onstott.

Hattiesburg, Miss. -- Emily Thornton.

Laramie -- Max Benson and Dillon Levi.

Parker, Colo. -- Tyler Carroll.

Saukville, Wis. -- Claire Heidel.

Upton -- Tyler Paul.

Worland -- Larissa Siirila.

Crew members

Bloomington, N.C. -- Viktor Stromberg.

Brighton, Colo. -- Will Dutcher.

Casper -- Simon Rachou and Kevin Jacobs.

Cheyenne -- Brian McInerney.

Colorado Springs, Colo. -- Austin Field.

Cross Plains, Wis. -- Elling Mann.

Des Moines, Iowa -- Lola Philips.

Evanston -- Sam Richins.

Genoa, Ill. -- Andy Walker.

Green River -- Cole Carpenter.

Laramie -- Tinsley Binning.

Madisonville, La. -- Addy Falghoust.

Narberth, Pa. -- Archie Millar.

Nederland, Colo. -- Tre Trofi.

Petaluma, Calif. -- Moi Bonilla.

Parker, Colo. -- Jessica Litch.

Peters Creek, Alaska -- Chris Folsom.

Prior Lake, Minn. -- Marissa Mattson.

Riverton -- Kate Gamble and Agate Gamble.

Sacramento, Calif. -- Celia Karim.

Sheridan -- Tera Thomas.

Star Valley -- Rachel McArthur.

The WyVTC, meanwhile, is working with Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites to develop, dig and maintain trails in individual state parks and historic sites all across Wyoming. Here is the schedule for its work:

May 30-June 18 -- Glendo State Park.

June 20-23 -- Guernsey State Park.

July 5-7 -- Curt Gowdy State Park.

July 10-13 -- Medicine Lodge State Historic Site.

July 14-18 -- Buffalo Bill State Park.

July 18-19 -- Legend Rock State Historic Site.

July 20-21 -- Hot Springs State Park.

July 31-Aug. 2 -- Sinks Canyon State Park.

Aug. 3-5 -- South Pass City State Historic Site.

Aug. 7-8 -- Fort Fred Steele State Historic Site.

Aug. 9-25 -- Curt Gowdy State Park.

WyVTC members are:

-- Kevin Wilson, who grew up in central Florida and served in the U.S. Navy for five years. He is serving as a crew leader before beginning nursing school at Central Wyoming College this fall.

-- Henry Bonds, who was born in Cheyenne and served in the U.S. Armys ceremonial unit from 2013-16. He also is serving as a crew leader and is a UW history student.

-- Aaron Martin, from southeast Tennessee, who served in the Army for three and a half years based at Fort Carson, Colo. He is a UW student studying geography and environment/natural resources.

-- Brett McCartney, from Wheatland, who served in the Navy. He holds a bachelors degree in criminal justice from UW.

-- Briton Brooks, who grew up in Fort Smith, Ark., and served in the Army.

-- Mickey Finnell, of Cheyenne, who served in the Marine Corps for five years. He is studying criminal justice at UW.

-- Preston Villumsen, of Colorado, who served in the Army for four years. He is studying microbiology at UW.

-- Zack Myers, of Douglas, who served in the Marine Corps.
Over the years the fund has lent VND500 million ($22,000) without interest to more than 500 households in Cu Chi and Long An, helping them improve their farming and escape poverty.

BATs representatives visit a household in Cu Chi district, Ho Chi Minh City that benefited from the Poverty Reduction Support Fund Microfinance Project

The Poverty Reduction Support Fund Microfinance Project was funded by BAT Vietnam through Hamoi Moi newspaper since 2004 with the total amount of VND1.6 billion ($70,200).

The project is aimed to contribute to the local hunger elimination program to gradually create a stable life for poor people and help them accumulate enough money to develop a business. Thus far, by providing dozens of loans in the past 13 years, the Poverty Reduction Support Fund Microfinance Project has benefited over 5,000 households with over 20,000 people in Haiphong, Bac Giang, Hanoi, Quang Tri, Cu Chi, and Long An.

The loan without interest from BAT Vietnam helps Nguyen Thi Duong in Duc Hue district, Long An province raise not only cows

According to Nguyen Hoang Hue Linh, senior corporate communication & CSR manager of BAT Vietnam, community-oriented projects like the Poverty Reduction Support Fund have left a good impression on many people nationwide as they have helped thousands of families eliminate poverty while their children could continue their schooling.

After 13 years of implementation, the project has recovered capital in Haiphong, Bac Giang, Hanoi and Quang Tri to continue with community projects in other localities, Linh said.

According to Linh, the Poverty Reduction Support Fund is part of the corporate social investment programme BAT has been implementing over the past years to support poor communities.

We believe that when people are guided and supported with the most basic means, such as loans and transport infrastructure, they will be comfortable choosing steady and safe work. They can set an example through hard work and raise their children as good citizens for society, she said.

...but also pigs

For BAT Vietnam, an enterprise has a role as a corporate citizen. Thus, for many years, citizen BAT in Vietnam has always supported the community and carried out charity projects to help usher in a better future.

BAT Vietnam is committed to supporting the community development of the countries in which it operates.

In Vietnam, BAT focuses on improving the lives of poor people through various activities in areas such as sustainable agriculture, microfinance, infrastructure support and employee engagement in community activities.

Specifically, BAT Vietnam has carried out programmes such as building more than 80 charity houses, supplying three million seedlings, helping green 10,000 hectares of barren lands in provinces such as Lang Son, Cao Bang, Gia Lai, Tay Ninh, Dong Thap, and Bac Kan.

As of 2016, BAT Vietnam coordinated with Ho Chi Minh City Police newspaper for charitable projects, building six rural bridges in Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, Vinh Long, Dong Thap, Bac Lieu, and Ca Mau provinces.

BAT Vietnams VND1 billion sponsorship to lift Mekong Delta out of poverty bearing fruits Ho Chi Minh City Police newspaper in collaboration with BAT Vietnam has held the inauguration ceremony of the rural bridge in Phu Thuan A commune, Hong Ngu district, Dong Thap province after six months of trial use. The bridge is 30 metres long, 1.6m wide, and was constructed with a capital of VND180 million ($7,900) sponsored by BAT Vietnam.

BAT Vietnam and UNESCO to foster young talents With goals of providing Vietnamese students with more comprehensive development and helping companies find better human resources solutions, the Talent Hub Grand Recruitment Programme (Talent Hub) kicked off in October.
The decree will make sure less buyers get their fingers burnt

Among the big projects to be launched is An Khanh New City Developments sale of its first phase this quarter. The mega $2 billion project is developed by South Koreas Posco E&C and Vietnams Vinaconex, located in Hanois Hoai Duc district, along the Thang Long Boulevard.

Scheduled for completion in 2013, the city is expected to supply 6,440 apartments, equivalent to 392,319 square metres of accommodation, enough for 30,000 people.

Even though Hoa Phat Group, the investor in a more than 1,000 apartment Mandarin Garden in Cau Giay districts Tran Duy Hung road, refused to release its launching time, real estate experts predicted the project would be soon launched.

At the beginning of this month the CT7D, located in Le Van Luong street and invested by Nam Cuong Group and the FLC Landmark Tower of FLC Group will also be launched, with a total of 200 units and prices ranging from VND23 million ($1,200) to VND28 million ($1,470) per square metre.

In Gia Lam district, over the Red River, the second lot of Rung Co Residentials belonging to the Eco Park is also being launched, with around 1,500 apartment units.

In addition, Victoria Van Phu, Star City, Diamond Tower and Song Da City View will also add apartments to the mix.

Real estate consultant CBRE Vietnam expected that there would be 3,000 units in Hanoi launched this quarter, compared to 1,950 units in the third quarter. There were more than 4,600 units launched in the second quarter.

This decline, according to CBRE Vietnam, could be due to the Decree 71, effective on August 8, 2010 providing guidance on the Housing Law, which caps the proportion of units sold via capital contribution contracts at 20 per cent with the remaining 80 per cent sold on transaction floors.

This decree, CBRE Vietnam said, had put a pressure on developers with low financial capabilities and enhanced market transparency.

However, CBRE Vietnam executive director Richard Leech said new project launches would continue trending towards more affordable options.

With the opening and improvement of major infrastructure routes, the capitals western and southern districts are attracting new residents with easier access for commuting into the core urban districts, Leech said.

He said that the Decree 71 was expected to benefit the market by enhancing transparency, placing pressures on developers with low financial capabilities, lessening the threat of price bubbles and limiting speculative forces.

Tran Nhu Trung, Savills Vietnam associate director, said the Decree 71 had showed off its advantages to clearly regulate five types of mobilising capital investment. However, Trung said the procedures to implement Decree 71 were still complicated and wasted customers time and energy.

The more simple it [decree] regulates, the more it is practical in the real life, Trung said.
Targeting a modern agriculture which applies state-of-the-art technologies and creates high-quality and competitive products, the province has offered a line-up of preferential policies for investors.

Support in terms of credits, land rental, infrastructure development and administrative procedures is among the provinces preferences for investors, said Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Manh Hien.

At an agricultural investment promotion conference held in Hai Duong on June 18, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong suggested that the province should pay due attention to providing training and encouraging farmers to connect with others to form agricultural businesses.

Identifying strategic products and outlining transparent and favourable policies for investors will help the local agriculture sector to move up on the ladder to a new development stage, Cuong stressed.

The province is housing over 11,700 enterprises, however, only 1,600 of which are investing in agriculture. Total investment in local agriculture is valued at more than VND15 trillion (US$658.5 million), focusing on farm produce processing, animal foodstuff and production linkages.
In late May 2017, the Ministry of Health issued Decision No. 21/QD-XPVPHC, imposing a fine of VND25 million ($1,136) on Humana Vietnam for insufficient testing of imported nutrition products for children, thus violating Article 26 of Decree No.178/2013/ND-CP.

Decree 178 covers sanctions of administration violations of food safety regulations. Under Article 26 of the decree, units will be fined if they fail to maintain periodical quality control and product testing in accordance with regulations.

Humana is one of the leading healthcare companies in Germany and one of the ten biggest groups in the EU. Established in 1950, Humana specialises in doing research and producing milk products for children.

Currently, Humana is producing and exporting its products to 70 countries worldwide. It has 17 factories in Germany and 196 representative offices around the globe.
Kebo, a Dutch furniture company headquartered in Rotterdam, has been importing Vietnamese goods for the last five years and is quite knowledgeable when it comes to evaluating the capacity and products of Vietnamese enterprises.

A typical Dutch small- and medium-sized private company, with merely 55 employees, Kebo operates efficiently with a turnover of 24 million euros ($26.9 million), growing at the rate of 10 per cent per annum.

Kobe is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Established in 1976, from the initial field of building materials and decorative mosaic tiles, Kebo has expanded to indoor and outdoor decoration products and has become one of the first companies to develop a DIY product line (do it yourself), sanitary wares, as well as decorative fireplaces and BBQ ovens. Currently, Kebo is operating mainly in the Netherlands, the neighboring Belgium, and expanding its exports to Germany, the UK, France, and Italy as well as several Asian countries, such as China and Vietnam.

Kebo business director Marcel Struijk said that in 2016 the company bought more than 1 million ($1.1 million) worth of products in Vietnam, accounting for less than 5 per cent of the total purchase value from its overseas markets. After a period of operation in Vietnam, Kebo decided to carefully select its partners, reducing the number of suppliers, but increasing the order value and desires to grow along with the factories in Vietnam.

Marcel Struijk, Kebos business director

In Asia, Kebo is currently looking for sources and purchasers. "We are buying wooden products, wooden planters, and natural stone products in Vietnam. In addition, due to the increasingly hot summers in Europe, Kebo is importing Lioas electric products, rattan products, and other high-end decorative products from other companies," said Marcel.

Kebo also has two large sales projects. Together with Dang Lan Company, the exclusive representative of Kebo in Vietnam, they have launched a high decoration line in cooperation with the Petti Rossi brand. By Marcels estimates after the first few months of operation, the company is having good chances in Vietnam.

Kebo also began to roll out its special sanitary ware products in China, which the firm plans to bring out in Vietnam as well. These products, made for the elderly and the disabled, are relatively new to the Asian market. The demand for such products is on the rise as life expectancy is on the rise in China and Vietnam.

Kebo works with the governments of China and Vietnam to launch its special sanitary ware products for the elderly and disabled

"The quality and competitiveness of Vietnamese goods are highly regarded, as evidenced by the fact that the Netherlands is now a big buyer in Vietnam. In the future, we will develop our strategic ties further with Vietnam, including buying and selling," said Marcel.
New law increases rights for foreign pharmaceutical companies in line with various FTA and WTO commitments,

photo Le Toan

With the long-awaited Pharmaceutical Law having taken effect in January 2017, and its implementation under Decree No.54/2017/ND-CP taking effect on July 1, 2017, foreign invested enterprises (FIEs) will be able to exercise their import rights.

International commitments

When joining the WTO in 2007, Vietnam made different commitments for import rights and distribution rights for FIEs with respect to pharmaceuticals. These are summarised below:

Import rights

Import rights refer to the right to import goods to resell to distributors or wholesalers in Vietnam.

An FIE with import rights and without distribution rights is not entitled to sell its imported goods to retailers and/or consumers. Under its WTO commitments, Vietnam committed to granting FIEs the import rights as of January 1, 2009.

However, FIEs have not been able to exercise their import rights for pharmaceuticals due to legal barriers.

Under the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement, which is expected to take effect in 2018, Vietnam committed to adopt and maintain appropriate legal instruments to allow FIEs to sell pharmaceuticals legally imported by them to distributors or wholesalers.

Distribution rights

Distribution rights refer to the right to conduct wholesale, retail, and similar commercial activities. An FIE with distribution rights may resell goods to any buyer, including wholesalers, retailers, and consumers.

Vietnams WTO commitments exclude the distribution rights for pharmaceuticals. Import rights under the Pharmaceutical Law

To fulfil its WTO commitments, Vietnam has created a legal framework for pharmaceutical FIEs import rights, which is written down in the Pharmaceutical Law and further explained in Decree 54.

The Pharmaceutical Law contains the import rights of FIEs with a reference to pharmaceutical importers not having the distribution rights for drugs and drug ingredients, entities informally referred to as FIE importers.

For reference, an importer has the following major rights, among others, under Article 44 of the Pharmaceuticals Law:

- Conducting drug introductions via drug representatives, circulation of drug information, organisation of drug introduction seminars, and advertising for drugs for which advertising is permitted;

- Registering and/or transferring drug and drug ingredient visa; and

- Importing drugs and drug ingredients for resale to local distributors.

Scope of import rights

Under Decree 54, an FIE importer may sell its imported drugs and drug ingredients to distributors who has obtained a Ministry of Health (MoH)-issued Certificate of Good Distribution Practice.

An FIE importer must notify MoH of the identities of the distributors who will distribute the FIE importers drugs and ingredients. MoH will then publish a list of such distributors on MoHs web portal within three business days.

Decree 54 restricts an FIE importer from conducting any of the following activities (except with respect to drugs or drug ingredients it produced in Vietnam), which are considered as activities of a distributor:

- Selling or delivering drugs or drug ingredients to retailers, healthcare establishments, retailers, individuals or organisations that are not distributors (collectively referred to as retailers);

- Accepting purchase orders or accepting payments under a retailers purchase order for drugs or drug ingredients;

- Providing transport or warehousing services for drugs and drug ingredients;

- Determining or fixing sale prices of drugs or drug ingredients distributed by other enterprises;

- Determining strategies for drug and drug ingredient distribution and business policies of distributors;

- Establishing drug and drug ingredient supply plans for healthcare establishments;

- Providing financial support in any form to those who directly buy drugs and drug ingredients from the FIE importer in order to impact the distribution activities for such drugs and drug ingredients; and

- Conducting other activities related to the distribution of drugs and drug ingredients.

Decree 54 also requires that a distributor who buys drugs and drug ingredients from an FIE importer has sufficient capacity to perform distribution activities independently of the FIE importers control or administration.

Eligibility certificates under the Pharmaceutical Law

Under the Pharmaceutical Law, an enterprise must obtain an eligibility certificate for trading pharmaceuticals in the relevant pharmaceuticals business categories it wishes to operate in. Categories include manufacturing, importing, wholesaling , retailing, and clinical testing.

The application dossier for an eligibility certificate as a pharmaceutical importer consists of the following:

- An application in the statutory form;

- Technical documents;

- A certified true copy of the enterprise registration certificate or equivalent forms of corporate licences; and

- A certified true copy of the practice certificate of a person-in-charge of the importers professional activities.

An eligibility certificate under the Pharmaceutical Law no longer has any term or expiry date.

Representative office

An issue arises as to what scope of activities a representative office (RO) of an offshore pharmaceutical enterprise would be permitted to conduct under the Pharmaceutical Law and Decree 54. If such an offshore pharmaceuticals enterprise decided to continue to operate an RO in Vietnam instead of incorporating an import FIE subsidiary.

Under Article 54 of the Pharmaceutical Law, an offshore pharmaceuticals enterprise with an RO in Vietnam has the right to register drugs and drug ingredients in its own name.

Also, as noted in Decree 54, if authorised by the offshore pharmaceutical company, the RO in Vietnam can file a request with MoH for their confirmation of the content of the drug information, drug advertisements, and drug introduction seminars.

The Pharmaceutical Law and Decree 54 are silent on whether an RO is entitled to conduct drug introductions to healthcare professionals via drug introduction representatives.
This record-holding power plant will propel Egypts power needs far into the future

A power complex consisting of three gas-fired combined cycle power plants with a capacity of 14.4GW is in its final stages of completion. The ambitious power project, which the Egyptian government signed with Siemens AG, is the biggest project worldwide. This megaproject will, upon completion, help boost Egypts power generation capacity by 45 per cent and supply 45 million people out of a population of more than 90 million with reliable electricity.

Setting new world records for the execution of fast-track power projects, scope of supply, and dimension, this megaproject also keeps the record for investment cost, at approximately 8 billion ($8.9 billion). The Egyptian government took out loans to place the order with Siemens on an engineering-procurement-construction (EPC) model.

The investment is extremely large for a country under economic reform like Egypt, but it reflects the strong determination of the Egyptian government and its people to eliminate power shortages in order to boost production and attract investments as well as to industrialise the country.

A comparison can serve to visualise the size and volume of the megaproject: 14.4GW equals more than one third of the total power generation capacity of Vietnam as of the end of 2016 (approximately 39GW), while the electricity output the three gas-fired combined cycle power plants can generate upon completion will be 20 times higher than that of Nhon Trach II power plant. The latter is currently one of the biggest power plants in Vietnam and is powered by Siemens technology.

Sophisticated technology is a must in the construction of the three plants

The revolution of energy

The three power plants, Beni Suef, Burullus, and New Capital, will serve three different regions in Egypt.

Beni Suef power plant is located in the south of Cairo, the capital of Egypt. It has a generation capacity of 4.8GW and will serve the residential demand in the southern Egypt regions, providing electricity to remote and rural villages in these areas as well as supplying energy-intensive industries like cement and metal. The power plant in New Capital will provide electricity to two vital national projects, Egypts New Administrative Capital and the Suez Canal. New Administrative Capital is set to host around five million Egyptians. The last one, Burullus, is located in the north of Cairo, adjacent to the Mediterranean sea. The plant is situated to supply the energy-intensive industries in Kafr El Sheikh and Alexandria with electricity. This includes the gas and oil production industry, among others.

According to Thierry Toupin, general manager of Siemens Megaproject in Egypt, the project has made great progress. Just 18 months after signing the contract, Siemens has set a new worldwide benchmark for the execution of fast-track power projects. Together with its local partners, Orascom Construction and Elsewedy Electric, Siemens has exceeded the promised goal when connecting 4.8GW to the grid. Upon completion next year, only three years after construction started, the complex of three gas-fired combined cycle power plants will contribute 14.4GW to Egypts grid. Equipped with 24 H-Class gas turbines with an efficiency of more than 60 per cent and an output generation capacity of 400MW, these power plants will help save approximately $1.3 billion in fuel costs per year, and prove to be eco-friendly.

What makes this megaproject outstanding are not only the impressive figures, but also the magnificent construction work and machinery installation involved, and this can only be appreciated on-site.

At the construction sites, the outside temperature is usually about 40C, sometimes as high as 50C, but that doesnt stop more than 20,000 people from working diligently and efficiently in order to keep the promise to nearly double Egypts electricity production within just three years.

The weather and geographic nature are two challenges that need overcoming.

At Beni Suef, massive excavation works were necessary to prepare the site, leading to the removal of around 1.75 million cubic metres of rocks. This is equivalent to the volume of the smaller Pyramid of Giza, which took the ancient Egyptians 23 years to complete.

At the New Capital site, Siemens developed customised solutions (never before implemented in Egypt) to meet the challenging conditions at the sites, such as the application of the air cooled condenser technology to compensate for the lack of water sources.

The Burullus site is considered one of the most complex construction sites worldwide due to its geographic nature combined with the tremendous magnitude of work done in parallel. Hence, the plant is considered a benchmark for modern turnkey power plant construction.

Despite the saline soil, we managed to execute the project in only 18 months. Typically, a project with similar technical challenges would take up to 1.5 years for soil preparation alone, without any erection of technical equipment, said Toupin.

More than 1.6 million tonnes of equipment was transported from all around the world. 1,762 suppliers worldwide, including 781 local suppliers and subcontractors, participated in this project.

And much more

This is a unique project in the history of Siemens, Emad Ghaly, CEO of Siemens Egypt said to about 50 visitors from 19 countries who were present at the sites inaguration. Apart from these three power plants, Siemens will provide 12 wind farms for the Gulf of Suez and the western region of the Nile, including around 600 wind turbines with a capacity of 2GW. Concurrently, a blade manufacturing facility is being constructed in Ain Soukhna, which will create jobs and training opportunities for about 1,000 people. This facility is expected to be operational in the second half of 2017.

Siemens is also constructing a training centre in Egypt. Once completed, the approximately 2,000-square metre facility, which will be built in the Ain Soukhna area, will train 5,500 selected technicians and engineers over four years. They will be trained in advanced skills such as operation, maintenance, and repair in the energy sector, in addition to a vast range of cross-industrial electrical and mechanical trades, automation and control, and mechatronics, as well as other areas important to the Egyptian economy.

To transmit the electricity generated by the three power plants to Egypts power grid, Siemens and Elsewedy Electric signed a contract with the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company for the design, engineering, supply, and installation of six substations, which are located in the cities of Maghagha, Etay El-Baroud, Banha, Wadi El-Natroun, Assiut and Kafr El Zayat.

Out of the six contracted substations, Siemens has already successfully put three into operation. The three substations, Maghagha, Etay El-Baroud and Kafr El Zayat were ready for operation within ten months from signing of the contract.

Emad Ghaly, CEO of Siemens Egypt, said: This is a major achievement for our country and our people. I am proud that the Siemens team was selected to contribute to this success. With these projects, we provide an essential contribution to stabilise both the energy supply and the economy in our country, which has an outstanding importance for the whole Middle East region and Africa.

This project concept could also be applied in Vietnam. You can bring in H-Class technology in a combined-cycle configuration and at really high efficiency  more than 60 per cent  you could completely cope with the demand for electricity in Vietnam, he said.

Egypt is still soaked in sun and the overwhelming colours of the desert sand. Apart from this homogeneity, only the Nile and its banks are dyed green, like a colourful thread crossing the desert. However, the country has been revitalised with these new giant plans in energy, and with the emergence of red and white chimneys from the newly built combined cycle power stations.

Egypt is famous for its giant pyramids, but its now even more famous thanks to its megaprojects with the largest gas-fired combined cyle power plants ever built and operated in the world.
Another scene from a South Korean musical to be staged in a Nang.

The event will be part of the activities marking the 25th anniversary of Viet Nam-South Korea diplomatic ties.

Acting Director of the citys Trung Vuong Theatre, Quang Hao told Viet Nam News that it was the first time that this musical was being staged in Viet Nam.

He said residents would be able to see several pop idols from South Korea, including Lee Ji Suk, Han Yungyeon, Louis Choi, Yoo Myunghun, Beom Sang Gil and Kim Minkyu, perform live in the city.

Jointly organised by the Trung Vuong Theatre and Koreas Uijeongbu Arts Centre, the show is directed by Kim Kyujong and choreographed by Kang Ok Soon.

Kang Ok Soon will direct the opening and closing ceremony of the upcoming Winter Olympic Games  Pyeongchang 2018.

Two Loving Stars will also feature vocalist Louis Choi and actors Lee Ji Suk, Han Jungyeon and Kim Minkyu.

The South Korean artists will present both contemporary and traditional dancing skills, martial arts and magic on a 3-D stage.
Despite heavy competition, Vietnam Airlines is planning for stability and expansion

Cautious plans for 2017

Vietnam Airliness 2017 business plan, which the company is putting up for approval at the annual shareholders meeting on June 20, is rather cautious.

Specifically, in 2017, the company targets a consolidated pre-tax profit of VND1.64 trillion ($72 million), equal to 63 per cent of the 2016 figure. The parent company targets a pre-tax profit of VND1.26 trillion ($55.31 million), equal to 73.4 per cent of last years performance.

The restrained targets were made as several factors that could greatly affect the profit of airlines in 2017 are difficult to guess and might very well move in unfavourable directions. Based on fuel price trends in the end of 2016 and beginning of 2017, Jet A1 may rise to $64 a barrel, up 16 per cent compared to the 2016 average $51.7 a barrel, resulting in a VND2.7 trillion ($118.5 million) increase in expenses.

Vietnam Airlines has calculated that each dollar change in fuel price would shift its operation expenses by VND220 billion ($9.7 million) a year.

Besides fuel, for an airline with many international flight routes, like Vietnam Airlines, the USD/VND exchange rate is also a big factor affecting profit. In 2017, the exchange rate is expected to be VND23,000-23,100 per dollar, which may raise the expenses of the airline by VND1.122 trillion ($49.3 million).

The competition in the Vietnamese air transport market is still very fierce. The total supply in 2017 is expected at 40.6 million seats, up 17 per cent on-year. Meanwhile, the demand is expected to increase by about 9.5 per cent, resulting in revenue per available seat-kilometre (RASK) for the whole market to decrease by 5 per cent on-year, equal to only 78 per cent that of 2015.

Still, profit, the only figure for which Vietnam Airlines is targeting a decrease, was still higher in 2016 than that of other legacy airlines of the same scale in the Asia-Pacific. This is going to add to Vietnam Airlines tradition of fast and stable growth in the volume of passengers and goods transported, even in difficult years.

For other figures concerning the core business of Vietnam Airlines, the company is targeting increases on all fronts. Consolidated revenue is targeted to hit VND87.9 trillion ($3.9 billion), up 22.7 per cent, while the total volume of passengers at 22.55 million, up 9.3 per cent, goods at 295,000 tonnes, up 8.5 per cent.

Good results for 2016

In 2016, Vietnam Airlines consolidated revenue was VND71.6 trillion ($3.14 billion), up 3.6 per cent on-year. Pre-tax profit grew remarkably, to VND2.6 trillion ($114.1 million), up 50 per cent on-year. This is the best result of the company in recent years. Most importantly, Vietnam Airlines is one of the few airlines in the region that made positive profit in its core business.

All profitability indexes of the company improved since last year. Specifically, the consolidated profit margin was 3 per cent, better than the 1.2 per cent in 2015, while that of the parent company was also 3 per cent, a significant improvement against the 0.5 per cent in 2015. Consolidated return on equity was almost 15 per cent, against the 7 per cent in 2015, while that of the parent company was 12 per cent, far higher than the 2.5 per cent in 2015.

Vietnam Airlines plans to use VND736.52 billion ($32.3 million) of the parent companys profit in 2016 to pay dividends.

Vietnam Airlines managers said that the rate is appropriate for 2016 results and government regulations and leaves plenty for the operation of the company as well as takes into account the companys ability to pay stable dividends in 2017 and the following years.

In the core businessair transportbesides ensuring the safety and security of all activities, Vietnam Airlines has put into operation a new fleet of Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 planes on long and major routes, improved service quality on all flights and has been officially recognised as a world-standard 4-star airline by Skytrax.

In 2016, the contract with the strategic investor was implemented with the joint-name cooperation and FFP on the routes between Vietnam and Japan and domestic flights in the two countries, using each others land services at base airports and the participation of an ANA Holdings representative in the Vietnam Airlines board of directors. These activities facilitated the development and improved the efficiency of Vietnam Airlines.

Besides, supporting services accounted for a small portion (2 per cent) of the revenue, but have become an important business line that allows the company to provide consistent and synchronised services, contributing to company operations.

With two brands, the company has provided a diverse range of products, resulting in a competitive advantage. Vietnam Airlines targets travellers with medium and high income, while Jetstar Pacific targets those travelling on a budget.

Solid results in 2016 set the ground for further expansion

Expansion plans

An important proposal the company is putting up for approval at the annual shareholders meeting is the plan to raise the chartered capital in 2017 in the form of selling shares to existing shareholders. This is the second capital raise since Vietnam Airlines started operating under the joint-stock company model.

Accordingly, the company plans to issue 191.1 million shares at the price of VND10,000 (44 US cent) to existing shareholders. Each shareholder will be eligible to obtain 15.5753 per cent of their current holdings and the minimum holding eligible is 100 shares.

In case this plan is approved, most of the proceeds from this sale is going to be used as reciprocal capital for plane purchase plans and as operating capital for the company.

According to the company proposal, the proceeds are going to be used as reciprocal capital to buy eight Boeing 787-9 and 10 Airbus 350 units in 2017-2019, as approved by the prime minister earlier. These contracts are valued at about $1.71 billion. In 2017, Vietnam Airlines is going to receive five planes, including one Boeing 787-9 and four Airbus A350, each with a value of about $160 million.

Experts assessed that existing shareholders will likely green-light the proposal. Currently, Vietnam Airlines stocks are very attractive thanks to the recent good business results of the company.

Raising the chartered capital and shareholders equity is going to help the company improve its debt/equity ratio and helped the company increase its financial capacity in order to expand its market and improve the quality of services, said chairman Pham Ngoc Minh.

Vietnam Airliness business results during 2014-2016 Unit: billion VND (million $) No. Figure 2014 2015 2016 1 Total assets 64,357 (2,820) 83,538 (3,660) 87,032 (3,800) 2 Owners equity 10,026 (440) 12,544 (550) 16,301 (715) 3 Liabilities 54,331 (2,380) 70,993 (3,100) 70,730 (3,100) 4 Revenue 55,291 (2,420) 56,653 (2,480) 58,388 (2,560) 5 Cost 55,107 (2,410) 56,370 (2,470) 56,777 (2,500) 6 Pre-tax profit 171.7 (7.5) 282.4 (12.4) 1,710 (75)

Plan on receiving airplanes in 2016  2019 Model 2017 2018 2019 TOTAL Boeing 787-9 1 1 Airbus 350 4 2 2 8

According to the approved airplane investment plan, the total shareholders equity needed for this purpose in the 2017-2020 period is $357.8 million.

Vietnam Airlines may open direct flights to US next year Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) and national carrier Vietnam Airlines (VNA) are completing the necessary procedures to open a direct air route to the United States in 2018.

Vietnam Airlines completing petition for direct flight to US Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) and national carrier Vietnam Airlines (VNA) are completing the necessary procedures to open direct air routes to the United States in 2018.
Acting in accordance with promise it gave on 11 April 2016, Egypt has finally returned the islands of Tiran and Sanafir to Saudi Arabia [1].

This act triggers an obligation on the part of Riyadh to respect the Camp David agreements under which ownership over these two small islands must not prevent movement in the straits and must allow Israeli ships to move freely.

A number of Egyptians have challenged President Al-Sissis decision to transfer sovereignty. To make them accept it, the Egyptian government had to claim that Egypt had never actually been in possession of these territories. But facts are hard to challenge and the two islands have belonged to Cairo since the London Convention of 1840. To discourage Egypt from divesting itself of Tiran and Sanafir, Saudi Arabia took two measures. First it blocked the delivery of oil and second it did not follow through with a 12 billion dollar loan. Finally, the Egyptian Parliament hastily validated the agreement.

The de facto recognition of the Camp David Agreements of 1978 (that is to say of peace quite apart from Egypt and Israel) should enable rules to be relaxed between the two countries. We have already announced the secret agreement reached between Tel-Aviv and Riyadh in June 2015 [2], the role of the Israeli army in the Arab Common Force in Yemen [3] and how the Seoud Family purchased tactical atomic bombs [4] from Israel. This should have important consequences for the Palestine issue.
Its a good time to be a Stephen King fan. Not only are we awaiting a much-hyped remake of It among other upcoming big-screen adaptations, but Spike is about to bring The Mist to a television near you. Premiering June 22 at 10 p.m., the story based on the same-titled novella follows a family dealing with the aftermath of a terrible crime. When an ominous mist rolls in and overtakes their small Maine town, everything goes to hell. Literally.

Read on for a few of our favorite King adaptations that fall within the horror genre, starting with everything you need to know about Spikes The Mist.

The Mist (2017)

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Now, this isnt the first time The Mist has been brought to the screen  in 2007, it was made into a feature film. However, Spikes version goes into more depth, unfolding in 10 parts, and we cant wait. Morgan Spector (Boardwalk Empire), Alyssa Sutherland (Vikings), and Frances Conroy (Six Feet Under, American Horror Story) are just a few of the stars to grace the series. In the video above, watch cast members and creators discuss how Stephen King influenced them, and just why his trademark brand of horror is so hard-hitting.

I think Stephen King understands human nature, says creator/showrunner Christian Torpe in the video. He makes people seem like your neighbor, a recognizable kind of a person, adds Conroy. And then with one word, he just takes you right off the cliff into this moment of great fear.

Part of the reason The Mist  like so many of Kings stories  is compelling is because of the primal fear it plays on: fear of the unknown. Its universal; its translatable; it can tear us apart. When the mist rolls in, chaos unfolds before people realize what it actually is. Hint: It gets even more terrifying once they do. To take his knowledge of fear and humanity and put it into a character and have that character evolve or devolve as he sees fit  thats really the mastery of his books, says Torpe.

Misery (1990)

When Stephen Kings 1987 novel Misery was to become a film, the author was invested in doing it right. He insisted that Rob Reiner (who directed Stand By Me) take the lead  in fact, King would only agree to sell the rights if Reiner would either produce or direct.

Reiner would indeed direct, although doing justice to the story was a tall order for any filmmaker. The plot unfolds primarily inside one house, mainly in just one room. When romance author Paul Sheldon comes to after a wintry car accident, he finds himself not in a hospital, but in someones home. His middle-aged, cross-donning caretaker Annie Wilkes explains that she rescued him from the wreck, and that shes a nurse. She tells him hes going to be fine, but that the roads are closed and the phone lines are still down from the storm. Annie also just so happens to be his biggest fan. As she becomes more and more outwardly unhinged, its clear that her intentions are sinister. Things officially take a turn when Annie realizes Paul has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain, in his latest novel. That red memory lane album. And that gruesome hobbling scene. Its still shudder-worthy almost three decades later.

Misery is one of Kings best film adaptations for several reasons. A major one is the incredible acting. Portraying Annie Wilkes was then-newcomer Kathy Batess breakout role; she even won awards for it. Annie is a complicated being, which Bates managed to capture in full. The character has an aversion to swear-words, and is almost child-like at times (Paul, my little ceramic penguin always faces due south), a chilling juxtaposition to her dark side.

Fun fact: Bette Midler was originally in the running to play Annie. (I turned that down because I didnt want to saw off someones foot,  she told the New York Times in a 2013 interview). However, in the movie, the weapon of choice ended up being a sledgehammer instead of a saw  we wonder if that would have made a difference.

IT (1990)

In 1990, this two-part TV special would change how wed think of clowns forever  and also storm drains and locker room showers  and plumbing of any sort, really. In Kings 1986 thousand-plus-page novel, Pennywise is a terrifying entity that haunts the small Maine town of Derry, dwelling in the sewers and preying mainly on children. Pennywise isnt technically a clown, rather an ancient shapeshifter from another universe that often appears as one. Part of the terror is not knowing what It will appear as, and the certainty that It will indeed appear.

The 1990 TV adaptation made It seem all the more real. Tim Currys Pennywise is the ultimate boogeyman of sorts; his yellow eyes and oft-pointed teeth are truly the stuff of nightmares. During the course of the movie, It also takes the shape of a giant spider, a bright light (the deadlights, a glimpse of Its true form), and more  It can also selectively appear to certain individuals and not others. They all float down here, and you will too, was Its catch-phrase of sorts. Poor little Georgie  your paper boat just wasnt worth it in the end.

In Kings tale, Pennywise returns once every 27-30 years from a hibernation to wreak havoc. Freakily enough, 27 years after the original special aired, a remake of IT starring Bill Skarsgard is slated to debut. Keep a close eye on those bathroom fixtures.

The Shining (1980)

Come and play with us, Danny. Room 237. Red rum. All immediately recognizable, all indelibly embedded into American pop culture thanks to Stanley Kubricks 1980 film. Although Kubricks rendition of The Shining was not Kings favorite (the author even went on to spearhead his own mini-series version, which was not so well-loved), its undeniable that its become the quintessential horror movie.

Kings qualms with The Shining lie within its departure from his 1977 book, particularly in terms of Jack Torrances character development. When we first see Jack Nicholson, hes in the office of Mr. Ullman, the manager of the hotel, and you know, then, hes crazy as a sh*t house rat. All he does is get crazier, King told Deadline in a 2016 interview. King sees the character Jack as he was written: a struggling individual who eventually succumbs to his inner demons, rather than someone who was destined to murder his family from the start. His transformation from a meek failed writer to homicidal maniac is also very much fueled by alcohol abuse, a theme that didnt get as much play in the film. Essentially, there was hope for Kings Jack Torrance, but not for Kubricks.

These discrepancies highlight the stamina and versatility of a truly compelling story  a great tale and great characters can be brought to life, even reimagined in countless ways, and continue to spark conversation. In fact, in 2012, Room 237, an entire documentary devoted to outlining and unpacking fan theories on Kubricks film was released. Many of the theories addressed in the doc dig deep into the imagery throughout, which is inarguably stunning and imbued with meaning. Even King agrees on the aesthetic front The Shining is a beautiful film and it looks terrific and as Ive said before, its like a big, beautiful Cadillac with no engine inside it, he told Deadline in the same interview.

Carrie (1976)

Carrie has a particularly special place in Kings body of work, and also in the work inspired by his stories  it was the authors debut novel, and the first to be adapted into a feature film. The 1974-published book had attracted the attention of director Brian De Palma, who offered a then-26-year-old King $2,500 for the film rights. He took the deal, and was reportedly very happy with it. I was fortunate to have that happen to my first book, King said at a 2010 event.

The film was praised from the start (Roger Ebert called it an absolutely spellbinding horror movie, in his 1976 review), and its since become a classic. The strength lies in the complexity of Carrie herself. Shes wholly human (despite her superhuman powers)  we feel for her plight at school, and we cringe at her horrific homelife. Shes not a monster by any means: Shes a product of how shes been treated. As prom night becomes increasingly blood-soaked, we get why things unfolded the terrible way they did.

Fun fact: Director Brian De Palma was friends with George Lucas. The pair held a joint audition for the roles of Carrie and Princess Leia.
Chance. Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Firefly

On Monday, just after his (decidedly hilarious) Twitter commercial dropped, Chance the Rapper took to Twitter to release a seemingly unrelated list of movies. At first, we were concerned that they might be ones hes fond of. Bullworth? Hmm. Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls? Whatever  most of us have a soft spot for movies we know are bad. But The Blind Side? Inquiring minds need to be reassured that Chance the Rapper does not like The Blind Side. (It is bad.) But then we got another clue this thread might be a list of Movies Chance Hates. Its well known that he didnt like Chiraq, which also made his thread, so breathe easy. This is definitely a list of movies hes not into. But, Chance, while we have you here, talking cinema: A promo for your new A24 movie would be much appreciated. XOXO, Vulture.

Bullworth  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

The Blind Side  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

White Chicks  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

Bringing Down The House  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

B.A.P.S  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

48 Hrs  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

All the movies with Rob Schneider  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017

(Not a good week to be Rob Schneider, it seems.)

Most of the movies with Adam Sandler  Chance The Rapper Owbum  (@chancetherapper) June 19, 2017
Photo: @BruGli

If youve seen a Broadway show in the last six months or so, theres a significant chance you saw a surprise double bill: the play or musical you paid for and a celebrity cameo by Hillary Clinton, smiling politely as the audience gave her another standing ovation. On Thursday, the former Democratic nominee, her husband Bill, and her daughter Chelsea attended a performance of Come From Away, a musical about the roughly 7,000 air travelers grounded in Gander, Newfoundland, after planes were rerouted following the aerial attacks on 9/11. Christopher Ashley took home a Tony for Best Direction for the production earlier this month.

The musicals co-writer David Hein later praised the Clintons, who posed for photos with the cast, on Facebook. Hein wrote in part, So many lines in the show resonated differently  especially the scene where passengers try to vote for a different destination and are told, this is not a democracy. Afterwards onstage, they were so gracious, taking pictures and speaking to each of us. President Clinton told Caesar one of his 9/11 stories, when he met a Muslim man who was afraid his countrymen would never trust him again. We and Sharon got to introduce our daughters to Chelsea. And Hilary told us, this is a show that the world needs now. So honoured to have this story of Newfoundland kindness recognized and celebrated by them.
Bachelor in Paradise stars Carly Waddell and Evan Bass. Photo: Noel Vasquez/Getty Images

Several former Bachelor in Paradise stars returned to Mexico this weekend, despite the ongoing scandal that caused Warner Bros. to shut down production on the show early this month. According to TMZ, Carly Waddell and Evan Bass, who met on the last season of BIP, got married at a resort in Puerto Vallarta in front of several Bachelor stars and cameras. ABC reportedly still plans to air footage of the wedding, even though BIP will almost certainly not return to TV this summer.

Former BIP and Bachelor stars like Nick Viall, Tanner Tolbert, and Ashley Iaconetti attended the wedding, and Bachelor host Chris Harrison played the role of officiant. So far, ABC has not made an official comment about what it will do with the wedding footage, but Bass and Waddell have made it clear they want to see it on TV. On Saturday, the Hollywood Reporter published a lengthy op-ed from Bass, who begged ABC not to cancel BIP. Love always wins, and I trust in Paradise, he wrote.

Warner Bros. is still investigating allegations of misconduct involving two contestants and producers on BIP. Several outlets have reported that producers filmed contestant DeMario Jackson engaging in a sexual encounter with contestant Corinne Olympios, who may not have been able to consent. I am a victim, Olympios said in a statement to New York. Jacksons lawyer Walter Mosley, meanwhile, told People this weekend that footage of the incident will prove everyone was consenting to what was going on.

Update, 2:35 p.m.: A source told E! News that Olympios is happy the wedding continued as planned. Corinne is so glad that Carly and Evan were able to have their special day, the source said. She feels really embarrassed and sad about everything that is going on so at least Carly and Evan were able to have an amazing and beautiful wedding and that the circumstances surrounding the Bachelor in Paradise incident didnt ruin it for them.
Cosby. Photo: Kevin Hagen/Getty Images

Though Bill Cosbys sexual-assault trial ended in a mistrial, his legal troubles pertaining to the case arent over yet. Or are they? In a postmortem on the trial, Cosbys lawyer Angela Agrusa says she believes the prosecutions announcement that they will retry the case involving Cosbys alleged 2004 sexual assault of Andrea Constand was protocol, but nothings set in stone. I believe that the Commonwealth had to state [the intention of a retrial] when they stated it. They have a lot of searching to do when they make a decision, she says. I hope they dont [retry]. I dont think the outcome would be any better for them  Everyone knows that cases dont get better with time. Agrusa also says she was told the jury was ultimately split after 52 hours of deliberation (though the breakdown of the jury vote has not been made public, and Agrusa has not been informed of the tally). I dont believe it was a single holdout, she says, indicating that the jury may not have been swinging in either sides favor and that she counts the mistrial as a win: We wanted an acquittal, but a mistrial or a deadlock is the same result as the group of jurors finding him not guilty. Prosecutors didnt have the evidence.

Still, Agrusa did believe Cosby may have been found guilty after the jury kept asking for clarification and testimony to be repeated during deliberations. Every time a question came in that seemed detrimental [to Cosby], I thought a guilty verdict was coming, she says. As for Cosbys claims prior to the start of the trial that he would not testify, Agrusa says that decision happened at the eleventh hour. He is a very charismatic man. He is a storyteller, she says. We knew a jury would want to hear from him. We were always prepared to put him on the stand. We were still talking about this on the weekend before close.

Ultimately, Cosbys team decided against him taking the stand the Saturday morning before the trial resumed last Monday, when the defense only called one witness before resting, which Agrusa says should not have come as such a shock to reporters because its so common. The judge now has 120 days to meet with the defense and prosecution and set a new start date for a retrial, though The Hollywood Reporter notes that prosecutors may first try to appeal earlier rulings on points such as how many accusers can testify at a second trial.
Just when I thought Piscatellas Purge-like takeover of Litchfield couldnt possibly get worse, Orange Is the New Black reaches a new low with The Reverse Midas Touch, one of the most perplexing and incoherent episodes of this disjointed fifth season.

I genuinely would like to understand how it is that a man gets to be this fucked up, Nicky says, trying to distract Piscatella so Alex can work on getting her hands on a pair of scissors on the floor. Her and me both. Piscatella has suddenly become one of the most horrifying villains in the shows history, but that trajectory has made little sense. Yes, Piscatella proved to be abusive before this rampage, prioritizing his prescribed sense of order in the way he harshly policed inmates. But in The Reverse Midas Touch, hes a bogeyman, a looming, unspecific specter of violence and patriarchal control. He sets out to mortify Red, brutally cutting off her hair and forcing her family to watch. I described his rounding up of inmates in the last episode as torture porn, but its nothing compared to the visuals here. Piper and Alex are still bound in shower curtains. Floress face is disfigured from coming into contact with Piscatellas boot. When Alex tries to jump Piscatella, he breaks her leg and leaves her crumpled on the floor, launching into a soliloquy about how women dont respect violence like men do, how they must be broken, how he intends to break them.

Its deeply disturbing to watch, but its also an empty spectacle of horror. Where did any of this come from? Through the shows other abusive guards, like Humps and Dixon, it was always clear that prison didnt exactly make them bad people. They were bad men before they stepped foot in Litchfield, and prison provided an environment that fostered their sexist and violent behaviors. Its clear that someone like Humps, who relishes talk of murder and violence, should not be a prison guard; his sadism was a commentary on the complete lack of oversight during the guard hiring process. The fact that he so easily became one reflects how deeply broken the system is, prioritizing efficiency and profit over actual human lives. But the flashbacks in this episode do suggest that the prison system turned Piscatella into a monster, and yet the episode never reconciles with what that means, favoring violence as shock value rather than telling a meaningful story.

At first, a younger Piscatellas seen as a bumbling idiot who falls in love with an inmate named Wes Driscoll. The episode never once engages with the imbalanced power dynamics of Piscatella and Wess relationship. Given Piscatellas power over Wes within the context of prison structures, the question of whether their sexual relationship could ever really be consensual is dubious at best, but again, Reverse Midas Touch doesnt dig into that at all.

When another inmate finds out about the affair, he and a group of others rape Wes. In an act of revenge, Piscatella chains the inmate to a shower and turns the water on boiling hot, leaving him to die an agonizing death. Its clearly an attempt to explain why Piscatella is the way he is  not to mention a case of prison abuse that was ripped from the headlines  and yet none of it tracks. We already knew Piscatella killed another inmate, and the added context that he did it to avenge a lover certainly doesnt justify his actions or even flesh out Piscatella as anything more than a bogeyman. And what does any of it have to do with his very personal attack on Red? Are we supposed to interpret his issues with his mother, who tried to fix him by sending him to gay conversion therapy, as the root of his problem with Red? That seems like a stretch at best. Has Piscatellas repressed sexuality manifested as violence? Even if that didnt play into harmful gay villain stereotypes, but it still doesnt even shed any light on why his attack on Red is so targeted and persona. Piscatellas real issue seems to be that he hates women. But again, the flashbacks dont engage with that at all.

Reverse Midas Touch grasps for ways to rationalize or at least contextualize this increasingly far-fetched story line, but it comes up with nothing. The flashbacks dont even provide much new information. We already know Piscatella murdered an inmate, and the reveal that it was an act of revenge doesnt really add nuance to the act. Nothing about Piscatellas arc has been nuanced, making him a behemoth of a villain who doesnt feel at all real.

Piscatellas theater of horror is so grandiose that its difficult to digest anything else happening in the episode. Leanne and Angie kidnap the doctor and hatch a plan to have him remove Stratmans finger so that Leanne can have it. Needless to say, that story line never becomes anything other than completely inane. Linda bonds with Pennsatucky, only to wind up punched in the face when Pennsatucky realizes who shes actually talking to. But I dont buy that character moment either. Gloria tries to sneak the guards out, only to be thwarted by Ouija and Pidge, who stop her plot to get out and see her son. Maureens face is infected, and Suzanne is off her meds. Both end up in medical, where they find that Humps has stopped breathing.

Meanwhile, Taystee and Caputos negotiations with Figueroa continue but without much progress. Caputo and Fig just seem like they want to have hate sex, and Taystee still isnt being heard about her demands. This is a disaster, Taystee says, a sentiment that echoes throughout all of The Reverse Midas Touch. While OITNB has had many human villains, the prison-industrial complex itself remains the most compelling and relentless villain on the show, touching the lives of every inmate in different but intersecting ways. These frustratingly slow negotiations reiterate how resilient of a villain that corrupt system is. But none of it connects back to the Piscatella bogeyman in a compelling way. The conditions of prison are so violent and volatile that it made a once-sappy guard into a monster overnight? I dont buy that, and Im not even sure its what OITNB is trying to say. At least Frieda and her gang get a chance to take down Piscatella, since his torture chamber is conveniently located in the entrance to the bunker. He may finally be incapacitated, but the problem with Piscatella persists.
Elizabeth Marvel as Antony. Photo: Joan Marcus/Public Theater

Right-wing protesters once again interrupted the Public Theaters production of Julius Caesar at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park Sunday night in response to its decision to style Caesar, who is stabbed midway through the play, after President Donald Trump. According to the New York Daily News, the two disruptions occurred early in the play. First, a protester named Jovanni Valle jumped onstage and shouted liberal hate kills and Goebbels would be proud. Later, 28-year-old Salvatore Cipolla climbed onstage and also shouted Goebbels would be proud. Both were quickly escorted offstage by security and have been charged with criminal trespass and disorderly conduct. Their protests echo those of right-wing bloggers Laura Loomer and Jack Posobiec Friday night. Loomer ran onstage during the plays assassination scene shouting stop the normalization of political violence against the right, while Posobiec filmed her and shouted Youre all Nazis like Joseph Goebbels and later, repeatedly, Goebbels will be proud. (Goebbels was Hitlers minister of propaganda.)

Sunday night was the closing night of the production, which has been surrounded by controversy throughout its run. The show was first denounced by right-wing media such as Breitbart and Fox News, leading corporations like Delta and Bank of America to pull sponsorships from the Public Theater. In response that outrage, which centers on the idea that this production promotes violence against Trump, the plays director Oskar Eustis, who also happens to be the Publics artistic director, has said that Julius Caesar warns about what happens when you try to preserve democracy by non-democratic means and the Public has issued a statement standing completely behind the production. Meanwhile, theaters across the country have received hate mail and death threats over their own Shakespeare productions, in seemingly misdirected outrage over New Yorks Shakespeare in the Park.

After the protesters were escorted out Sunday night, the show continued to cheers and applause according to a statement the Public made to the Daily News. This summers next Shakespeare in the Park production is of the comedy A Midsummer Nights Dream, which will surely be less controversial, unless someone decides the forest should have single-payer health care.
Greetings from Chicago, where I am attending an I.T. conference not unlike the one depicted in this seasons penultimate episode of Silicon Valley. Im on the attendee side this time, which means no setting up booths, no last-minute equipment and/or logistical nightmares, no freaking out when my companys swag doesnt get delivered, and most important, no demos! As I told you back in Proof of Concept, demos always blow up. Hooli-Con takes this notion to its literal, Galaxy Note 7worthy extreme.



But how did we get to this explosive moment? Lets go back to the previous night, when Richard and the gang hatched a plan to infiltrate HooliCons server to install Pied Piper: The New Generation to piggyback on the Hooli app required to connect to the convention centers free Wi-Fi. Now, I can tell you that this free Wi-Fi is always terrible  its as slow as molasses running down a hill in winter  but speed doesnt matter to Richard. All he needs is 123,000 phones to successfully store Dan Melchers data. Users will unknowingly be running PP:TNG in their phones, and no one will notice because theyre used to the shitty nature of free Wi-Fi.



Of course, Jared, our resident empath and conscience, objects to this breach of computer etiquette. He correctly refers to Richards programmatic intrusion as malware. Think of it as forced adoption through aggressive guerilla marketing, counters Richard. As a product of forced adoption, I can tell you there will be consequences, warns Jared. But in order for the plan to work, the Pied Piper app must stay resident in everyones phone. Theyll delete the Hooli app after the conference, says Dinesh. Nobody deletes their old apps, says Richard. How many of you looked at your phones app list after this scene and discovered Richard was right?



I like it, says Gilfoyle of the plan, but we need a black-hat ninja for this. Everyone looks at Dinesh. Cut to him visiting his super-hacker ex-girlfriend Mia in prison. A fearful Dinesh continues to lie to her about his whereabouts, because if she were to find out hes the reason shes incarcerated, Mia will make his technological existence a never-ending nightmare. For now, Mia provides the answers Dinesh needs. Youd just launch a man-in-the-middle attack with pineapples, she says. Google it.



Then, as she used to do during their post-coital cuddling, Mia tells Dinesh of her latest illegal plan. I think I can get online at the prison library, she says, If so, I will track down who ratted me out. I will destroy that motherfucker! As Mia rants, director Mike Judge executes a slow, scary zoom toward Dinesh, injecting the frame with a shocking jolt of claustrophobia. The camera movement makes us feel Dineshs panic, but he still comes off as a ripe bastard when he drops yet another dime on poor Mia to ensure shell wind up in a maximum-security penitentiary.



No wonder Mias in prison, says Gilfoyle upon hearing her suggestion. Shes brilliant! Everyones optimistic about pulling this tech heist off  except Erlich. After burning down his palapa in last weeks episode, Erlich has concluded that both he and Richard are cursed: Every time we got a whiff of success, a giant pelican by the name of fate takes a four-and-a-half-pound shit on top of us! Erlichs choice of bird is a nice in-joke: Alcatraz, the setting of Erlichs biggest disaster, is also an archaic Spanish word for pelican.



There are people who are destined for greatness, and there are not, continues Erlich. Richard, it seems you and I are not. Using a postcard from Gavin as an invitation (That postcard was addressed to me, whines Richard), Erlich decides to join the disgraced former Hooli CEO on his Tibetan quest for inner peace. So this is how Silicon Valley handles T.J. Millers departure, though it initially seems in doubt because Erlich is too broke to afford a plane ticket. As he tries to pass the hat for donations at Hacker Hostel, I asked myself, Hasnt this guy ever heard of GoFundMe?



Ill pay for it, volunteers Jian-Yang. Premium economy, one-way ticket. Erlich takes him up on the offer. Dont you need a visa? asks Dinesh. I can call my uncle in Beijing, says Jian-Yang. Hes very corrupt. Writer Chris Provenzano gives Erlich the unsentimental exit one expects, and Gavins response when he realizes hes trapped with Erlich makes for a nice denouement. Though I wish Miller the best of luck as he exits the show, Ill still miss Mr. Bachman. Ive spent many of these recaps defending him in one form or another, and I wonder how season five will proceed without him.



While Jian-Yang unceremoniously dumps Erlich at San Francisco International Airport, Jared tells Richard that he cannot support this iteration of Richards walk down the left-hand path. Remember when we said we didnt want to wind up like Hooli? he asks. When Richard protests, Jared twists this particular knife. Youre shrugging off large-scale cybercrimes against innocent civilians, he responds. Rather than respect Jareds decision, Richard asks him to play a mind game that Jared used to employ to deal psychologically with the horrible hell of his upbringing. Uncle Jerrys game, Jared calls it, where he pretends that everything around him is normal.



If HBO ever decided to do a Better Call Saulstyle prequel starring Jared, it will be more terrifying than Oz. Zach Woods plays Jareds acknowledgement of his hard life with a mixture of self-awareness and delusion. He delivers a master class of suspenseful, tightly wound control. Jareds empathy springs from the well of his past traumas, but its an empathy tinged with darkness. When he finally cracks near the end of this episode, Woods perfectly balances the comedy and pathos of the outburst. He is definitely this weeks MVP.



Across from Pied Pipers HooliCon booth is a booth run by Winnie, Richards ex-girlfriend from Bachmanity Insanity. She was Richards first opportunity to get laid on Silicon Valley, an opportunity he squandered because she used spaces instead of tabs in her code. Winnies got a new man, a snooty narcissist named Joel with a mobile-phone game called Peace Fare. Users can virtually give money to the homeless or grow virtual corn for a virtual starving village. You get to feel good about yourself without doing a damn thing of worth, making Peace Fare a very sharp commentary on things like changing ones Facebook background or using a Twitter hashtag instead of actively doing something in real life.



High above the conference floor, Hoolis security guy Hoover notices Dinesh and Gilfoyle dropping pineapples in strategic locations. But when he suggests calling the Tactical Review Team (TRT) to sweep for rogue Wi-Fi, Action Jack Barker chews him out for interrupting him. Four days ago, I spent $2 billion on a piece of shit VR gadget thats never gonna work, Jack begins. I had to rebuild the operating system just to get a 90-second demo that can play on a phone. And by the grace of God, I just may have pulled it off. And now you wanna talk to me about Pied Fucking Piper?!



Thanks to Richards petty jealousy, the TRT shows up anyway. As Joel snaps promotional photos of his bare feet (Start with the toes, he says), Richard changes the Peace Fare screensaver to say Poop Fare. Joel thinks hes been hacked and calls for help. Not only do the TRT get a cool entrance, they also get all the pineapples. During their sweep, Richard and Dinesh enact what looks like a suicide bombers last stand. Well all be rewarded in the end, says Richard, handing a backpack-wearing Dinesh a kill switch for the pineapples. (I am sure HBO will get letters for this.)



Sitting in the security-holding area, the Pied Piper crew vents their anger at Richard, and not just for Poop Fare. When Keenan responds to Gilfoyles earlier snub, Keenan reveals that Richard was going to cancel the $25 million VR deal before Hooli made Keenan a member of the three-comma club. Its up to Hoover to restore harmony among the crew. He releases them in the hopes that whatever theyre doing will reflect badly on Action Jack. And boy, does it!



After Jamiroquai sings a reworked version of Virtual Insanity, Action Jack opens his keynote address by walking across a floor covered with his Conjoined Triangles of Success diagram. He introduces Keenan, who tells the HooliCon audience to put on their VR goggles. Say hi to that barmaid for me! he says as everyone powers up. We never find out if its PP:TNG, the Hooli app, or a virtual-reality barmaid that causes the mass explosion of the audiences cell phones, but they go off like roman candles on the Fourth of July. Like I said, demos always blow up. Even ones that cost $2 billion.
Photo: Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

In September of 1992, Vice-President Dan Quayle called on Interscope to pull a record called 2Pacalypse Now off of retail shelves. There had been a murder in Texas; a teenager was accused of fatally shooting a state trooper during a traffic stop. The accused was said to have had 2Pacalypse Now in the tape deck of the stolen truck he was driving at the time of the shooting. The troopers family sued Interscope and its parent company, Time Warner, along with the 21-year-old rapper, Tupac Shakur, whose work had supposedly animated the killing. Quayle decried the irresponsible corporate act that Warner and Interscope committed by pressing 2Pacalypse Now. Then he doubled down: There is absolutely no reason for a record like this to be published  it has no place in our society.

2Pacalypse Now was released in 1991, the same year that Tupac Shakur brought a $10 million lawsuit against the Oakland Police Department, alleging that officers brutally beat him after hed been stopped for jaywalking. He was awarded $43,000, the vast majority of which had to be earmarked for legal fees.

A New Yorker by birth, Pac had moved with his family to Marin City when he was still a teenager. Bay Area hip-hops aesthetics at the time suited him well  loose and propulsive, political but never humorless. Through a series of managerial connections, he landed a gig as a roadie and backup dancer for Digital Underground, with the understanding that if he kept his head down and his legs in Lycra, hed get the shot he was looking for. This has all been documented to exhausting degrees in books, documentaries, YouTube playlists, magazines, and now a feature film. But beyond all the mythmaking, there are important stylistic threads that began when he was waiting in the wings while Sex Packets played out on a stage in front of him.

The first single from 2Pacalypse Now was called Trapped. On it, Pac raps about racist policing techniques, the corrosive nature of prisons, and phone taps. He makes threats like, Did it before, aint scared to use my gat again, and he does it in a bouncy cadence over danceable bass line and an organ that could have been ripped straight from an Oakland As game. Trapped is often cited as one of Pacs first major works, and as being representative of an early, political phase, as opposed to the crass Death Row period. Its also where things got complicated.

Though he was only 20 years old when the album came out, Pac already had a fully formed set of political beliefs, and a preternatural ability to see how power changed people  over the course of centuries or the course of a traffic stop. That knowledge helped him paint a depressingly vivid picture of how America treats its black citizens. Where Trapped was formatted for radio, Souljas Story was a plodding meditation on the police as an occupying force. Theres no doubt that 2Pacalypse frequently returns to the idea of violent revolt against the cops: its there on I Dont Give a Fuck, its there on Violent and Crooked Ass Nigga and boiling under the surface just about everywhere else on the album.

But while its one thing to rap about the anger and indignation that would make one want to kill a police officer, its entirely another to advocate for someone to actually go and do it. Its impossible to hear Soulja Story or Violent and draw the conclusion that Tupac was endorsing the murder of policemen. He makes the gunmen human and well-rounded. It was one of his favorite tricks: Brendas Got a Baby is not unique for its plot points, its unique because Pac puts you in the head of someone who at the time existed in the press, the public consciousness, and presidential debates as a caricature, whose health and safety and life had been reduced to a sterile point of political disagreement.

Whats often overlooked in accounts of Pacs early period were the different phases he was working through as a stylist. The album opener, Young Black Male, hears him working rapid-fire  not as off the grid as some of his peers at the time, like Saafir or E-40, but a long way from the voice and cadence thats imprinted on all of our brains today. Ultimately, 2Pacalypse is a formative record. Pac darts between points of view (the playfulness of Rebel of the Underground, the melodrama of Part Time Mutha) without much connective tissue. The inward gaze that would make his later work so compelling had yet to come into focus.

Maybe Dan Quayle really thought he could get Interscope to bend to his wishes, but the company had no plans to pull the record. By February 1993, after George Bush and Quayle had lost a bizarre election to Bill Clinton and Al Gore, another 2Pac album was being shipped to retailers all across the country. Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. was supposed to be a star turn for Pac, and in many ways it was: it cracked the top 25 on the Billboard 200, and peaked at No. 4 on the rap charts. It was also a confounding, supremely off-kilter record, the kind that only works if youre one of musics most irrepressible talents and your main foil happens to be the vice-president of the United States.

The second song on Strictly is Pacs Theme, a frenetic interlude where Quayles words (It has no place in our society) and explanations from the artist himself loop and encroach on the other, interacting in strange, alchemic ways. Two tracks later, another interlude, Something 2 Die 4, is a dirge for those who have left this earth. It memorializes a 15-year-old girl named Latasha Harlins, who was murdered by a convenience-store owner in Los Angeles in 1991, and whose death was one of the precursors to the L.A. riots. The song is also dedicated to Qaid Walker Teal, a 6-year-old boy who was killed by a bullet from a gun that Tupac owned, that was likely fired accidentally by one of his associates.

Sometimes Strictly feels like Pacs Fear of a Black Planet. The thematic and topical connections are obvious, but in terms of structure and musical cues, he was borrowing from not only Chuck D, but Public Enemys frenetic production team the Bomb Squad as well. The tempos are up, the beats stack sample after sample beside, on top of, or underneath the others: Parliament, George Clinton, Sly & the Family Stone, James Brown, Planet Rock, Zapp. The thought of the paperwork, if Strictly were released today, is probably enough to give copyright lawyers everywhere hives. At the time, though, it made for a dizzying set of sounds that tied the coasts together, however briefly.

The album often feels like a collection of fragments, but when the pieces do cohere, Strictly is Pacs best work. The opening song, Holler If Ya Hear Me, holds up next to anything he would make in the final two years of his life. Keep Ya Head Up and I Get Around are often cited as examples of Pacs contradictory nature, but the truth is that theres not really too much contradiction in rapping about uplifting women and then letting Shock G purchase them lavishly expensive clothing.

Speaking of Keep Ya Head Up, that second verse (I remember Marvin Gaye used to sing to me / He had me feeling like black was the thing to be) is some of the best, most deeply felt writing of Pacs entire career. He has an epiphany about how stressful his actions must have been for his mother, and he touchingly remembers his departed friends. By the time the verse is over, Pacs arrived at a hopeless place: Say there aint no hope for the youth / And the truth is, there aint no hope for the future. And so instead of Tupac preaching from a place of calm, the hook becomes a reminder for him to keep his own head up.

The first couple 2Pac albums are littered with chopped-up Ice Cube vocals. The former N.W.A. front man was, by 1993, one of the biggest rappers in the world, and his appearance (alongside Ice-T) on Last Wordz was a crucial early co-sign for Pac. This is the first time since Pacs coming-out party, on Digital Undergrounds Same Song, where you can hear him measuring himself against his peers and predecessors. Its also one of the five songs  out of the first seven  that either samples Dan Quayles voice or references him by name.

There are times Strictly feels unfinished or underdeveloped. But it captures Tupac at a point in his maturation when hes starting to understand how his internal life is inextricable from how he experiences and interacts with the power structures hes been throwing bricks at since his youth.

By the fall of 1994, Tupac was a bona fide star. I Get Around and Keep Ya Head Up charted at numbers 11 and 12, respectively, while his roles in Juice and Poetic Justice had revealed him as a gifted actor, magnetic in the broadest movie-star sense but technically skilled enough to bring nuance to his character, even in wide shots.In September of that year, he teamed up with Macadoshis, Big Syke, the Rated R, and his stepbrother, Mopreme, to drop Thug Life: Vol. 1. While Interscope stood behind Tupac during the Quayle fiasco, they blanched at many of the songs recorded for Thug Life and, giving in to the moral panic over gangster rap, refused to clear certain songs, severely handicapping the final cut. Still, some canonical 2Pac songs made it through, and the LP serves as an important bridge between his Oakland period and what would come later.

Tupacs professional success was perpetually offset by personal and legal disaster, but a pivotal series of events were sparked in November of 93, when Pac was charged, along with several associates, with sexually assaulting a woman. He denied the claims and was eventually cleared of sodomy and related weapons charges, but was convicted of sexual abuse and sentenced to 1.5 to 4.5 years in prison. (He would appeal the conviction, but his money dried up, giving Suge Knight the opportunity to swoop in and offer to post bail in exchange for Pacs services at Death Row.)

The night before the verdict was to be handed down, Pac was robbed and then shot in the lobby of a Manhattan recording studio. After being rushed to the hospital and undergoing emergency surgery, he evaded the doctors and checked himself out. The shooting was a major turning point in Pacs personal life, after which he became suspicious of all but his closest friends and business partners.

All of this served as the backdrop for Me Against the World. The record opens with a two-minute collage of news reports, from men and women who sometimes mispronounce his name, but never fail to scold him for checking out of the hospital too early. They recount the October 1993 incident in which he shot at two off-duty cops in Atlanta (the charges were dropped). They heavily imply he has gang connections. And just before the intro fades away, a male reporter says that the attempt on his life once again underscores the violence that has surrounded this man.

Whats striking about Me Against the World is not its intensity or its righteous fury, but rather its control. The Tupac we get here is uniquely self-possessed, sorting through his feelings of worthlessness on So Many Tears or getting wistful on Young Niggaz. Never before in his music had Pac delved this deep into his own psyche. Looking inward comes with entirely different challenges than speaking outwardly to your friends and neighbors, but Pac managed to retain the authority he had on Keep Ya Head Up, the ultimate testament to his abilities as a writer.

The album would go on to be the first rap record to top the charts while its author was incarcerated. This was thanks mostly to Dear Mama, the beautiful ode to Afeni. Though it was sadly prescient (Hugging on my mama from a jail cell was supposed to be a shared memory, not a daily brief), it also built on the scaffolding that Brendas Got a Baby or even Souljas Story provided. With one couplet  And even as a crack fiend, mama / You always was a Black queen, mama  Pac countered the dominant narrative in the press, of those addicted to crack as detestable drains on society. The Reagan years and the attendant crack boom gave way to the Clinton era of rapid, expansive incarceration. Tupac just happened to see his loved ones caught in the undertow.

Pac was never one to feel around with his writing, to search for the answers on company time. He would barrel ahead, unblinking and unquestioning, until his train of thought had run its course, and if he contradicted himself later, so be it. Instead of knocking down those newscasters one by one, he stared straight through them. Me Against the World was leaps and bounds ahead of his previous work because it was his counter to a world that must have felt as if it was conspiring against him.

Photo: Al Pereira/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

All Eyez on Me should be too much to sit through. It has a full 20 minutes on double albums like Biggies Life After Death and Wu-Tang Forever. If a running time of more than two hours wasnt enough, the songs themselves are monstrously long: out of 27 tracks, only two clock in under four minutes. But the whole thing somehow feels breathless. The Gothic thump of Ambitionz Az a Ridah transitions into two radio singles. Theres glossy pop and outright fury and mourning and beaches. The truly staggering thing about All Eyez on Me is that its not even a comprehensive survey of everything Pac did well, just a survey of whatever Pac felt like doing for a couple of weeks after he got bailed out of jail.

Ambitionz and I Aint Mad at Cha were recorded on his first day out. Not only did Pac limit himself to his first takes, but he demanded the same from his collaborators, many of whom found themselves falling asleep in the studio each night while Pac knocked out three or four songs every day. (But not E-40. When E-40 was lying on the studio floor, it was just because that was how he got comfortable to write. Once, he set his two pistols neatly beside him.)

Eight years later, Nate Dogg would claim that the insane pace was due to the fact that Pac wanted to fulfill his Death Row contract as quickly as possible and leave the label. That might have been true. But the controlled chaos, combined with a revolving door of the best talent in Los Angeles and the Bay, made the double-LP one of hip-hops towering achievements.

When its discussed in the context of his entire body of work, All Eyez is implied to be diametrically opposed to Tupacs earlier, political work. Setting aside the notion that all rap is inherently political, this makes a certain amount of sense. The album is not consumed by arguments against police occupation or former senators from Indiana. But theres an unshakable subtext. Tupac frequently sounds like hes either nearing or already past a breaking point, where theres no pulling out of the persona hes created on wax. (This proved not to be true; the interviews he gave during this period, including those on movie sets, show a markedly different disposition.) Me Against the World was a breakthrough in self-awareness: the newly famous artist dissects his problems in the mirror and in the third person, from the cable-news-eye view. All Eyez on Me deliberately rolls that back, and fully immerses Pac in the new persona hed adopted along with his Death Row deal.

Just like on Me Against the World, The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory  supposedly recorded over the course of one week in August 1996, and the skeleton of what would likely have become Tupacs best album had he lived to finish it  opens with yet another news anchor. This time, though, it drifts further away from reality. Pac was at the peak of his fame, but the faux reports (In todays music news, the ever-controversial Tupac Shakur ; Sources tell me a number of less fortunate rappers have joined together in conspiracy to assassinate the character of not only Mr. Shakur  and so on) underscore the stakes he was assigning to his professional battles. This was a man who had survived shootings, robberies, incarceration, and a grisly bit of police brutality, but this time it was other rappers who were in the crosshairs.

Pac wastes no time burning bridges. Bad Boy, Jay Z, Nas, Mobb Deep, Dr Dre. Its scorched earth to the fullest; the album opens with two songs of dystopic dread. Even when the aesthetics switch to something radio-ready on Toss It Up, there are long diatribes against Puffy. Its furious, sure, but its also brilliant rap music. To Live and Die in L.A. and Krazy each have a serrated edge, but theres a sentimentality that makes them stick. And as so often goes overlooked in discussions of Pacs Death Row period, White Manz World is a full reversion to Strictly-era, overtly political music, with women once again center stage.

Against All Odds is an exhaustive rehashing of the various conspiracies aimed at Pacs life or reputation. Nearly all of these were blood feuds that had nothing to do with creative competition. But if the goal of The 7 Day Theory was to put fear in other rappers hearts whenever they picked up a pen, Pac would have come out victorious, too. Few rappers have used their voice this well, and even fewer have done so while hitting the more technical patterns Pac pulled out on a regular basis. Neither All Eyez nor the Makaveli record are without their flaws, but its hard to imagine them existing without those flaws.

In death, and with time, Tupac has grown into an icon. Documentaries and countless posthumous recordings have been churned out on perpetual loop; an entire cottage industry has been set up around a man who only lived to be 25.

Through five albums, Tupac had found a crucial equilibrium. He was looking outward and inward in roughly equal measure; he was living precariously in the moment just as much as he was looking to the future. The slew of posthumous material thats been released in the years since his death offsets that balance, and muddies the fairly linear progression that his proper albums reveal. Its impossible to know where Pac would have gone two, five, ten years after All Eyez on Me, but it seems unlikely that hed be stuck on the sort of creative plateau that posthumous releases necessarily land on.

When people talk about Tupac, theyre quick to note how complicated he was, which is fair. But part of what has made him seem like such a mystery is that the further we get from his death, and the further down the rabbit hole of commemorative reissues, special-edition retrospectives, and films we go, he becomes less human, and more of a phenomenon. Were looking at his personality  or the parts of his personality he let us see, rather than studying his work as an artist. And the work is all Tupac left behind. Without it, were left with coiffed nightly-news reporters who paint him in broad strokes, ignoring a lot of the nuance that made him popular in the first place.

When Tupac was murdered, the New York Times obituary was headlined: Tupac Shakur, Rap Performer Who Personified Violence, Dies.
I read Republican Congressman Bill Flores denunciation of Obamacare in a May 13 Waco Tribune-Herald column with the greatest interest. Please allow a contrasting perspective:

First, there is no real health-insurance crisis in Congress. One-hundred percent of its members have comprehensive, low-cost health insurance that allows them to seek the finest health care available. More about that in a moment.

No one who voted on the Obamacare repeal legislation lacks health insurance. And our president is a billionaire who can afford the best health care for himself, even if he is a private citizen and lacks health insurance. No member of Congress who supported the repeal of Obamacare was placing his or her health insurance, health or the health of loved ones at risk.

Second, Congress is not economically representative of the American public. Almost half of Congress  including members of the peoples house, the House of Representatives  has a net worth of at least $1 million individually.

Members of Congress receive an annual salary of almost $200,000, considerably more than the majority of Americans earn. Our financial disclosure laws for members of Congress make it difficult to determine the exact wealth of a federal lawmaker, but we know Congressman Flores is among the richest members of the Republican-run House with an estimated net wealth of $7 million or more. This isnt surprising, given he was employed for decades as an oil company executive.

Many members of Congress are card-carrying members of the 1 percent and practically every member of Congress has total security against financial disaster  the kind of calamity that personal bankruptcy from uninsured medical bills might well bring.

In his column, Flores laments the explosion of his familys medical costs from $3,000 to over $14,000 and blames this turn of events entirely on Obamacare. Maybe. But Flores can afford $14,000 in annual medical expenses. Hes a millionaire several times over. Most of us arent so lucky.

Congressman Flores does not mention the Office of Attending Physician, which he and his family may or may not have used. It provides medical care to members of Congress and referral to Americas finest physicians for the oppressive fee of $503 per year  a fee not raised since 1992, and this in a legislative body populated with millionaires where no one is merely middle class.

Established some 85 years ago, this medical service is part of the Navys budget and is rooted in the idea that members of our national legislature must have the best medical care imaginable at minimal cost because of their awesome responsibilities. Perhaps. But if members of Congress can get the very best medical care imaginable without financial sacrifice, all Americans should receive the same bargain.

Congressman Flores and House Republicans blithely dismiss clear statistical analysis that 25 million individuals will lose health insurance in the next 10 years and thus suffer compromised and destroyed health, simply because of Republicans decision. We will be back in the good old days  pre-Obamacare  when the vast numbers of suffering uninsured were a national disgrace and the rest of the world wondered why America was the only global economic power that refused to provide health care to its citizens at a reasonable cost. America spends more on medical care and gets less. Check the data on Americas health-care expenditures and health-care outcomes in such areas as life expectancy, infant mortality, etc. Flores and his Republican brethren can surely do better than this.
WHITECLAY  Alyssa Mae Ranard found being able to spend a year documenting and shedding light on indigenous people to be very impactful and fulfilling.

The 2013 Yutan High School graduate spent the last year with her in-depth reporting class at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln traveling to Whiteclay  an unincorporated community in western Nebraska with 12 residents and four alcohol retailers with more than 42 million cans of beer sold in the last 10 years.

The project resulted in Ranard and her classmates winning the 2017 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Journalism Grand Prize.

It seemed so surreal, Ranard said when she had been told of the award. The grand prize had never been awarded to a college before in the existence of the award.

The yearlong project began after the 2016 school year. At the recommendation of professors in UNLs journalism department, Ranard and 10 other individuals were selected to work on the project.

When we initially began this project I didnt have any idea what Whiteclay was,the 22-year-old said. We piled tons and tons of research into this place and history behind it and realized what this little town was and the injustice and inhumane treatment.

The project resulted in The Wounds of Whiteclay: Nebraskas Shameful Legacy. The website is a compilation of articles, photographs and film documenting the effect of the relationship between Whiteclay and the Pine Ridge Reservation. Common themes include poverty, alcoholism, crime, poor mental health and fetal alcohol syndrome.

Ranard said her main responsibility was behind a video camera, capturing the reality of Whiteclay on film.

People were just suffering in this town and people werent paying attention, she said.

The class noticed that statistics commonly used by media outlets were overused and outdated, she said. They worked to reanalyze statistics, which they found to be surprising some including a life expectancy of 47 years for men and 55 for women; with 52.2 percent of individuals living in poverty, Oglala County of Pine Ridge Reservation is the most impoverished county in the nation; and a DWI arrest rate 10 times greater around the reservation than in Lincoln.

The class took some collective trips to Whiteclay, an approximately six hour drive from Lincoln. The students would also travel separately or in smaller pairs as necessary, she added.

The sources needed to be treated with respect, and approaching them became easier each time they visited, she added.

I tried to approach every situation with as much respect for the culture and the people as possible  which wasnt super hard for me because I love Native American culture, she said.

Ranard said the big payoff was getting to witness the discussion during the latest session of the Nebraska Legislature that suspended Whiteclays liquor licenses.

They were using our statistics and talking about our stories, she said.

That was a defining moment for Ranard, confident that she is pursuing the right career path after switching majors from fashion design to journalism.

She is spending the summer working for Salon News and the Lincoln Journal Star, before continuing her last year of education in the fall.

She said her dream is to become a documentary filmmaker or traveling photojournalist.

I want to go wherever the stories take me, she said.
By Dave OMalley

Arnold Roseland was just 28 years old when he died in an aerial gunfight over Normandy in the summer of 1944. He had fought both the Japanese in the Aleutians and the Nazis before and after D-Day. If anyone deserved to return home to his family, it was the well-liked Rosey. But it was not to be. Instead he died when his parachute caught on the tail of his burning Spitfire and he was thrown to his death when the aircraft struck the ground.

Since that day, Roseys remains have lain in a well-tended grave site at the Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, France. In those days, men who died in battle were not returned home, but were often buried in the small town graveyards where they died and then moved to a larger site after the war. Their spirits returned to be captured in the hearts of loved ones, there to live forever in their memories. The memory of Arnold Roseland lived on in his wife Audreys heart until her death, and since then his story has been carried like a torch by his son Ron and his children and grandchildren. Though Ron would never meet his father, he had some artifacts to help him construct a bridge to himhis eyes have scanned the words that Roseys hands penned in his logbook, his hands have caressed his pilots brevet, his story has coursed through his bloodstream like a ghost. But there was no actual living memory he could attach his love to. Until last week.

Last week, Roseys spirit rose into the air over his native Canada, casting a physical shadow across a country he gave his life to protect and to preserve its freedoms. Last week, after many years and millions of dollars, Spitfire Mk IX TE294, known as the Roseland Spitfire, took to the skies for the very first time. The Roseland Spitfire is the very embodiment of that brave, fatigued young man from so long ago. It is in fact the embodiment of every young Spitfire pilot who went to war and never came home. That is why we took on this projectto honour these courageous Canadians by building the first Spitfire ever built in Canada and flying it in Canadian markings.

We offer up the very fine photographs taken by Vintage Wings of Canadas official photographer Peter Handley as well as a short video by our official videographer Jonathan Edwards who was there to record it. It was a happy day for the entire Comox/Gatineau team, but all of Canada should be proud of their accomplishment.

When the volunteers at the Comox Air Force Museum began work on TE294, they went forward under the hopeful banner She will fly again. Vintech Aero and Vintage Wings of Canada have always respected this vision of the projects founders and we are proud to have helped fulfill that promise they made. Since this first flight, the Roseland Spitfire has now completed six test flights, each one carefully and gradually expanding the flight envelope of the aircraft. Vintage Wings of Canada will now take TE294 through a lengthy, meticulous and methodical test process for the rest of the year to ensure she is in perfect order before she attends any distant air show or other events. She will, however, be debuting for all of Canada when she makes a triumphant flypast over Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Canada Day to celebrate Canadas 150th Birthday. Hows that for a homecoming for long lost but not forgotten Arnold Roseland!

Dave OMalley

Thanks to Dave OMalley and Vintage Wings of Canada for allowing us to publish this update. To sign up for the Vintage News, the monthly newsletter of Vintage Wings of Canada, click HERE.

Click on the image below to read the full article and report of the first flight.
It's a given that muffins and iced chocolates aren't healthy, and as such, should be consumed as an occasional treat. But if a 0.5 health star rating was slapped on it, would you think twice?

Researchers from the George Institute of Global Health and Cancer Council NSW applied the health star rating system  seen on packaged foods in supermarkets  to 1530 menu items at 13 fast food chains and found Gloria Jean's had the lowest average health star rating of two stars, followed closely by McCafe and Muffin Break.

They found 41 per cent of Gloria Jean's products and 30 per cent of items at Muffin Break  home of the coconut slice that contains half the recommended daily energy intake  scored fewer than 1.5 stars.

The George Institute's Dr Elizabeth Dunford called on the government to extend the ratings scheme to fast food restaurants so that consumers can compare and opt for healthier choices. Such a move would prompt the companies to reformulate products for the better.
As a keen participant in online surveys and competitions, Mia Tang was not that surprised to receive a call telling her she had won a Coles Myer survey competition.

It was only when the caller started asking, "if [she] had a mortgage," and "what [her] husband did for work," that alarm bells started ringing.

"I said, I don't understand why these questions are relevant. But the caller just said she needed to know to deliver the prize," Ms Tang said.

"I asked for some time to think about it, and spoke with my husband. And straight away he said it sounded like a phishing scam."
Rising demand for warehouse and distribution space across the country  boosted by the pending arrival of online giant Amazon  has led to a rise in industrial land values, prompting asset sales.

The commitment to the Western Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek will continue to lift land values in Sydney's outer western regions, and double-digit growth is expected to continue, according to research by Colliers International.

Cope Sensitive Freight's site at 40 Fulton Drive in Derrimut, Victoria.

The group's research manager Sass J-Baleh said industrial land values, historically, had recorded higher growth rates during periods of new industrial infrastructure.

"It is particularly during the stages when the project has been 'committed', that precincts within close proximity experience the greatest value uplift," Ms J-Baleh said.
Business leaders and one of the world's top economic experts have savaged the federal government's visa changes, accusing them of threatening the economy and labelling foreigners as barbarians.

Coca-Cola Amatil managing director Alison Watkins, Woodside chief executive Peter Coleman and GE president Geoff Culbert described changes that will further restrict access to Australia's visa system as hypocritical and retrograde.

Former World Trade Organisation director Pascal Lamy lashed out at changes spurred by the global populist phenomenon.
One of Labor's biggest backers, the giant shop assistants union, will be subject to a parliamentary inquiry over wage deals that have cost workers hundreds of millions of dollars.

The new Senate probe is a response to the wages scandal revealed by Fairfax Media involving deals between some of Australia's largest employers, including McDonald's, Coles and Woolworths and the Shop, Distributive & Allied Employees Association (SDA).

The inquiry will examine the lower penalty rates received by many workers employed by big business and whether the Fair Work Act needs to be changed to protect these workers from being paid less than the minimum rates of the award.
Trump's victory, as the controversial polemicist Michael Moore predicted, was "the biggest "F--- YOU ever recorded in human history."

Yet despite all the scare hoopla, Americans are not yearning for 1930s-style European dictatorship. Many of the white working-class folks who had voted Democrat for a quarter of a century had not suddenly lurched to the authoritarian right. They were simply fed up with an establishment divorced from the thoughts and attitudes of ordinary Americans and happy to find someone finally tapping into their anxieties.

During last year's US presidential election campaign, no political label was hurled around more freely at Donald Trump than fascist. Neo-conservative Robert Kagan reflected the prevailing wisdom among intellectuals and journalists when he lamented: "Yes, a Trump presidency would bring fascism to America."

Although Trump sometimes seems to skirt the bounds of reasonable political discourse, the fascist label is far from apt. Indeed, after five months of President Trump, it is already clear that the US Constitution's normal checks and balances are working, as America's founders had intended. Scrutiny and accountability in Washington have not disappeared.

The courts have blocked the President's executive immigration orders. The FBI and Capitol Hill are investigating his election campaign's (alleged) ties to Russia and his (alleged) attempts to stop these probes. So too is an Independent Counsel.

Even Congress, dominated by Trump's own party, rejected his keynote legislation to repeal Barack Obama's healthcare policies. And although he attacks the Fourth Estate unlike any predecessor, Trump is subjected to more intense media criticism than any president, including Richard Nixon.

Far from representing the return of Franco, Hitler or Mussolini, The Donald has shown he's just an incompetent oscillator, who has presided over the most chaotic start to an administration in living memory.

These are divisive political times in America when ad hominem abuse and physical harassment are all too often used against opponents: the shooting at Republican lawmakers is just the latest example of the intense polarisation that is dividing the US. (The activist posted this on Facebook in March: "Trump is a Traitor. Trump Has Destroyed Our Democracy. It's Time to Destroy Trump & Co.")
The vast majority of Australians say the world is becoming more hazardous and their confidence that America will play a constructive role in global affairs has plummeted since Donald Trump became president.

New polling shows 89 per cent of Australians agree the world has become more dangerous during the past year, 8 per cent more than last year. The survey also revealed just 37 per cent of Australians now believe the United States has an "overall positive" influence on world affairs, a huge 23 percentage points lower than in 2016.

Ipsos Australia research director, Laura Demasi, attributed this slump to the behaviour of Mr Trump since he became the US president in January.

"On a global scale, people are clearly nervous about Trump's unpredictably and are worried about what his 'America first' agenda really means for the rest of the world," she said.
London: The father of four suspected of mowing down a group of worshippers outside a London mosque was a "devoted" family man, but was known for "flipping his lid" when he drank too much, neighbours claimed last night.

Darren Osborne, 47, is being held in custody on suspicion of terror offences including attempted murder.

After his vehicle ploughed down a group of men as they left Ramadan prayers, he is alleged to have rammed his hired van into bollards before jumping out and shouting: "I'm going to kill all Muslims - I did my bit."

Mobile phone footage taken by onlookers showed him wild-eyed and sweating as he repeatedly shouted, "Kill me."
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A deputy with the Marion County Sheriff's Office in Florida had a run-in with a curious bear.

The Sheriff's Office shared the video on

with this caption:
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With the long-running legal wrangling over the future of Winnipegs Kapyong barracks a low hum in the background, the sounds of demolition work will ring out this summer at the former military base.

The call for bids goes out next month, with the goal to have the initial contract awarded by the end of July and have work begin in August or September, said Maj. Dez Desjardins, the officer in charge of property operations covering the demolition project.

The 30-plus structures on the 160-acre piece of land have sat mostly unused since 2004, when the 2nd Battalion of the Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry was relocated to CFB Shilo, near Brandon.

PHOTOS BY BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Kapyongs large barracks, mess hall, officers quarters and drill hall will form the third phase of demolition, which will likely not begin until next year.

All have been targeted for demolition, starting with the former bases most northernly structure: the Lipsett Hall recreation centre.

Its been a long time coming, thats for sure, Desjardins said.

We are doing the final views on the specifications now, he said, noting there are some things they still need to confirm with the city before the planned contract posting date of July 4. The forecasted schedule was to start demolition this summer, and it is our intention to do that.

The call for bids comes after the feds made a public announcement to area residents in the spring that wed be moving forward with demolition of the Kapyong barracks in preparation for transfer of the land sometime in the future, Desjardins said.

Federal funding of $5.5 million has been allocated this fiscal year to start the project.

Were looking at the buildings that pose the most risk or security threats first The gymnasium  theres no compound fence around it, theres still a pool in there thats full of rainwater and runoff water, snow melt  thats the first targeted building, Desjardins said.

Most (structures) that have a basement will be full of water, either from the roof leaking and/or runoff from the winter. In the case of the gymnasium, its important on the life-safety side, especially with no perimeter fencing, that that building come down as soon as possible to prevent somebody from breaking in and, heaven forbid, falling in the pool.

The rec centre will be followed by the razing of six maintenance/warehouse structures bordered by Taylor Avenue to the north and Kenaston Boulevard to the east (two of which are the largest on the old base), and the buildings immediately north of Taylor not surrounded by security fencing.

(There will have to be remediation on the maintenance facility site, as the soil contains contaminants from a no-longer-used firefighting foam that had been sprayed during equipment testing over the decades, Desjardins said.)

Should that proceed smoothly, the next phase targets the five logistics buildings on the east side of Kenaston to the north and south of Taylor.

The heart of Kapyong, including its large barracks, mess hall, officers quarters and drill hall, will form the third phase of demolition, which will likely not begin until 2018.

(However), if we receive extra funding, we may move into (the remainder of) buildings this year, Desjardins said.

The final phase will be comprised of the removal of asphalt roads and city service connections (water, sewer, electrical) from the site  to be tackled once the buildings are gone.

All structures will be taken down to grade, all basements will be removed and backfilled, Desjardins said. Any support pilings will be cut six feet down and buried.

Theres a lot of buildings that will be taken down to the concrete slab and the slab will remain, he said.

Well take as many as we can down this year, and with whatever funding we get next year, we will carry on.

Once the fiscal year ends March 31, a second contract will be up for grabs to continue the work that remains, with a third contract to rip out the streets and service pipes and wiring forthcoming.

BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Demolition will start with the Lipsett Hall recreation centre.

This is 100 per cent set aside, Desjardins said, adding indigenous companies are being solicited to bid via Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. It will be an indigenous (-run) company that will be awarded the contract.

INAC will also post a contract for future grass-cutting and snow removal (as necessary).

If you drive by there you might question whether we are cutting the grass or not, but we are maintaining the maximum height (of grass) with respect to fire protection, Desjardins said. Were not doing beautification but we are keeping the wild grass down.

The barbed wire-topped security fencing will stay up around the site until the removal of city services is complete.

The removal of buildings that have for so long been part of the daily commuters landscape will likely come as no surprise to area residents, Coun. Marty Morantz (Charleswood-Tuxedo-Whyte Ridge) said Wednesday. However, it is a step in the right direction.

Everybody knows its not going back to being utilized (by) the Department of National Defence, he said. Its going to move forward and be developed at some point in the future. In order to do that, the site does need to be cleared up.

Most people will see it as progress and setting the stage, hopefully, for future development on those lands.

Desjardins could not comment on the upcoming works impact on the cost of site upkeep, reported in 2016 to be as much as $1.5 million annually. But he did touch on the oft-asked question of why the large barracks are not being transferred and renovated for city use, perhaps as low-income housing.

That could possibly have been done very early after the battalion moved out; however, they have been sitting with no heat, no services for over a decade now, he said. Theres vermin, mould issues.

Obviously, the roofs for a lot of those buildings needed replacement several years ago, so now its a hazardous materials concern, as well as asbestos content. Not all of the buildings have asbestos, but not all of the buildings have been tested as well.

One of the buildings slated to fall  the bases drill hall  will live on, however, as part of the historical record.

Built in 1955, Korea Hall has been designated a historic building. Prior to its razing, a military team will photograph and document the interior of the structure due to its historical associations and its architectural and environmental values, Desjardins said.

scott.emmerson@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba governments plan to build major infrastructure projects through public-private partnerships has passed its first hurdle.

But the earliest parents and students will find out if theyll get a new school built as one of the provinces first P3 projects will be February  and shovels wouldnt go in the ground until at least 2019.

Education Minister Ian Wishart said Friday the province received four bids by Thursday afternoons deadline to conduct a study determining if there is a business case to be made for building four new schools using the P3 model (in which private companies would design, build, finance and maintain facilities that would be operated by their respective school boards).

BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Education Minister Ian Wishart.

Emphasizing target dates each step of the way is at the provinces discretion, Wishart said a contract could be awarded by July 31. The winning firm would start work the next day, with a target date of February to advise Wishart if P3 is the way to go with the four new schools.

Premier Brian Pallister announced at a national P3 conference in Winnipeg this spring the province would study building P3 schools in the Winnipeg, Seven Oaks, Pembina Trails and Brandon school divisions.

The projects include schools in the Waterford Green neighbourhood (Winnipeg School Division) and Brandon first promised by the former NDP government in 2015.

So anxious are the divisions to get those schools built, Seven Oaks has offered the province the design plans for one of its existing schools in an effort to speed up the process and save money, said superintendent Brian OLeary.

We remain the most crowded school division in Manitoba. We have only 110 square feet per pupil, compared to the provincial average of 165.

We have two new residential subdivisions under construction and several more subdivisions in various stages of planning and development, OLeary said. In the short term, we will manage with portables and the conversion of non-instructional space to classrooms.

WSD board chairwoman Sherri Rollins said the Public Schools Finance Board (PSFB) had previously authorized the division to buy land in Waterford Green. So, of course, we anticipated a school. Its a lot of watching and listening and seeking clarification.

Weve asked some clarifying questions: will the school community and division get to provide input in design? Will we get a seat at the table? Will the processes that we enjoy the relationship with PSFB remain intact?

Meanwhile, WSD is busing students from the Waterford Green and Canterbury Meadows neighbourhoods to four other schools. A fifth is standing by when those are full and portables are being added.

In Brandon, We continue to find ways of accommodating our enrolment growth. The province re-evaluated our schools last year, and their new calculations said we had more capacity than previous calculations, said board chairman Kevan Sumner.

We dont agree with the new calculations, as we currently have 100 per cent room utilization in six of our 14 K to (Grade) 8 schools, and even these newly calculated capacities will be exceeded in seven of our 16 K-6/K-8 schools by 2021. The PSFB turned down all of our portable classroom requests this year, Sumner said.

We have made frequent adjustments to catchment areas in recent years to relieve our most overburdened schools, and areas of new residential development are a patchwork of busing routes, as each new residential subdivision is bused to schools with sufficient capacity, he said.

Like other divisions, we have had to convert non-instructional space and even move classes off-site, and next fall we are moving our at-risk youth and off-campus programs into a new, larger facility we are renting directly from the City of Brandon.

nick.martin@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A 37-year-old woman is dead and a 28-year-old woman has been charged with manslaughter following an attack at a West End house party early Saturday morning.

Police said Marilyn Oshiwee was found about 4:30 a.m. at 570 Spence St. with injuries suffered from an apparent stabbing.

Fenisha Peebles is in custody and has been charged with manslaughter.

FACEBOOK Marilyn Oshiwee was found about 4:30 a.m. at 570 Spence St. with injuries suffered from an apparent stabbing.

A Winnipeg police general patrol unit observed a number of people in front of a residence in the 500 block of Spence Street. The officers stopped to investigate and located a deceased female on the front porch, said Const. Rob Carver.

Oshawee and Peebles knew each other, but it is believed neither of the women lived in home, he said.

The home where the stabbing death occurred is between Sargent and Notre Dame avenues.

Several area residents the Free Press spoke to Saturday said at least one floor of the house, which appears to be a duplex, was frequented by drug dealers within the last several years.

A number of people were taken into custody but released without charges, Carver said.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The time has come for Premier Brian Pallister to sign or get off the pot.

Manitoba remains one of two provinces that have not signed on to the federal Liberal governments climate-change framework, which requires all provinces to develop carbon-pricing plans by 2018, or have one imposed on them.

According to the terms of the federal governments backstop plan, all provincial carbon tax or cap-and-trade programs must be set a minimum of $10 a tonne (estimated 2.33 cents a litre on gasoline), rising to $50 a tonne (11.63 cents a litre) by 2022. If a province does not have a plan in place that meets the minimum threshold, Ottawa will levy a carbon tax and remit the revenue either to the holdout province or perhaps to taxpayers directly.

Why is Pallister being so stubborn? At first blush, its not because he doesnt think there is a problem.

Pallister has been very clear that he thinks climate change is real and that some form of carbon pricing is appropriate.

He has also been firm in his pledge that his government will deliver a made-in-Manitoba tax scheme rather than just allow Ottawa to impose and collect its $10-per-tonne levy. Moreover, Pallister and his climate-change guru, David McLaughlin, have been working diligently to flesh out that homegrown strategy.

At the moment, however, Pallister seems stuck in neutral when it comes to delivering on a Manitoba carbon-pricing framework. Its certainly a complicated initiative, requiring some nuanced tailoring to soften the blow to certain politically sensitive constituencies.

The big outstanding issue is Pallisters insistence that Ottawa give Manitoba some leeway when it comes to the backstop price to be applied on carbon because of its heavy reliance on clean, renewable hydroelectricity. Pallister hasnt been entirely clear on what he means by leeway, but we can probably extrapolate that Manitobas costly investment in hydro should be recognized by allowing Manitoba to impose a lower carbon tax than other provinces that emit more greenhouse gases.

The federal government has shown little interest in the Manitoba argument, choosing instead to warn the province that continuing to hold out could be a costly decision.

Ottawa is dangling a $2-billion carrot in front of all provinces in the form of the low carbon economy fund, which will ensure those that dont have a carbon-tax scheme in place will have one by next year. Money from that fund will flow over the next five years to spur innovation in the reduction of greenhouse gasses. Manitobas share has been estimated at $66 million.

All Manitobans, but particularly farmers and businesses that generate greenhouse gases and consume large quantities of fossil fuels, need time to plan for the impact of a carbon tax. Pallisters deliberations on this file have reduced the preparation time to about six months. There is an argument to be made that for some of those most affected by the new carbon tax, Pallister already has waited too long.

Increasingly, Pallister has begun to look like a man who simply cant make a decision. That could be due to the fact the only thing Pallister fears more than rising global temperatures is rising taxes. The longer he waits to unveil a true, made-in-Manitoba plan, the more it will appear his lack of co-operation has little to do with greenhouse gases, and more to do with his inability to pull the trigger on a tax hike.

Pallister truly has a deep and visceral dislike of all forms of taxation. At times, he has suggested higher taxes are the biggest scourge facing Manitoba  a remarkable claim in a province that has profound challenges in areas such as poverty, health care and education. No matter, the takeaway point is that Pallister thinks taxes are evil and he wants to lower them.

That makes the introduction of any new tax a tough pill to swallow, even a tax that achieves the noble goal of discouraging consumption of climate-altering fossil fuels. Pallister could introduce offsetting tax cuts to soften the blow, as other provinces have done. Its important to remember he also must keep an election pledge to reduce the PST to seven per cent from its current eight per cent, a decision that will translate into a $300-million loss of revenue. Could the carbon tax be used in part to pay for that tax cut?

Provincial officials have dismissed that idea as nonsense. However, there have been some recent signs Pallister is getting more and more anxious about keeping his PST promise, and is looking desperately for any fiscal windfall that might help him cut the tax rate without plunging the treasury deeper into deficit.

It could very well be Manitoba is poorly served by the one-size-fits-all approach the federal Liberals are imposing on the provinces. It could also be that Manitobas request to receive some sort of credit to reflect its investment in renewable hydroelectricity is reasonable.

However, in the absence of any details of what constitutes a made-in-Manitoba approach, it is very difficult to assess the impact or the integrity of Pallisters plan. If there is a better, fairer way to introduce carbon pricing in Manitoba, then lets have the plan and the debate that is sure to follow.

Pallister could still sign the federal plan as is, and then work to mitigate future carbon tax increases based on the provinces relatively small carbon footprint. Or, he could continue holding out but take his homegrown carbon pricing plan directly to Manitobans, so they can see that there is a better way.

What the premier cannot do is continue to do nothing  or be seen to be doing nothing.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Unless a provincial court judge finds him not criminally responsible, a semi-truck driver who fled to South America after he was charged in a deadly crash has agreed he should be found guilty of the accusations against him.

Randolf Enns, represented by defence lawyer Laura Robinson, appeared in court today at the beginning of a hearing designed to determine whether he was criminally responsible for his actions at the time of the July 2013 crash that killed a 21-year-old man. That is the only defence he is putting forward to fight the charges against him, his lawyer told provincial court Judge Catherine Carlson Monday, and if the judge doesnt believe he was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the crash, she should find him guilty of dangerous driving causing death and resisting arrest.

A psychiatrist who assessed Enns after he was brought back into police custody more than three years after the crash is set to testify Tuesday. Court heard Enns medical records, including some from Paraguay, were used to inform the NCR assessment. The details of the assessment are expected to be presented to the judge as the hearing continues.

John Woods / Winnipeg Free Press Files A memorial in Headingley for Derek Bossuyt who was killed when a semi crossed into his lane in 2013.

Meanwhile, Crown prosecutor Manoja Moorthy laid out the facts of the case against Enns Monday, as relatives of the victim and of Enns listened in the courtroom.

Enns was allegedly driving erratically leading up to the fatal crash that killed 21-year-old Derek Bossuyt on the evening of July 22, 2013. Another driver later told police Enns semi nicked the rear of his truck while they were driving west on Portage Avenue around 9 p.m. That driver pulled over, expecting Enns to do the same. When the semi-truck kept going, the driver whod been rear-ended decided to follow it to the nearest weigh scale. By the time he caught up to the truck, it was in the ditch.

Other drivers reported theyd seen the semi truck running a red light just prior to the crash, and a motorist who was driving directly behind the semi saw it drift over the centre line.

RCMP traffic analysts determined the semi had drifted over the centre line of the Trans-Canada Highway near Headingley and collided head-on with the pickup truck Bossuyt was driving. Court heard investigators werent sure why the semi crossed into the lane of oncoming traffic, noting that stretch of highway was well-lit and speed didnt appear to be a factor. Enns was allegedly unco-operative with police on scene, leading to the charge of resisting arrest.

Enns, formerly of Ladysmith, B.C., was released on bail after his arrest, but he skipped his trial date in October, 2014, and reportedly fled to Paraguay. A Canada-wide warrant was issued for his arrest, which didnt happen until more than two years later when he landed in Toronto. Enns had booked a flight from South America to Toronto, intending to return to Winnipeg from there on Nov. 10, 2016.

Submitted photo Derek Bossuyt, 21, was killed in a July 2013 crash on the Trans-Canada Highway near Headingley when the pickup truck he was driving was hit head-on by a semi truck driven by Randolf Enns. Enns was later charged with dangerous driving causing death and resisting arrest, but he skipped his trial and was believed to be living in Paraguay.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A Winnipeg man faces extradition to the United States following his arrest in connection to an investigation into counterfeit cancer drugs.

Kristjan Thorkelson, chief executive officer of CanadaDrugs.com, was among six Canadians arrested June 14 and 15 in Manitoba and British Columbia under the Extradition Act.

Thorkelson, Thomas Haughton, Ronald Sigurdson, Darren Chalus, Troy Nakamura and James Trueman are accused of importing and selling $78 million of unapproved, counterfeit and misbranded drugs to American doctors.

BORIS MINKEVICH/WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Canadadrugs.com at Terracon Place in Winnipeg.

Winnipeg-based CanadaDrugs.com is still in operation and is licensed by the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba.

The company describes itself as offering distance-based pharmacy care since 2001. Its founder, Thorkelson, a graduate of the University of Manitoba, was part of a team that grew the business rapidly by pioneering online sales of drugs and by buying up smaller pharmacies throughout the 1990s.

Thorkelson, CanadaDrugs.com and affiliated companies and associates are accused of selling counterfeit drugs between 2009 and 2012.

Canada Drugs purchased its inventory from questionable sources and ultimately sold counterfeit versions of the drugs Altuzan and Avastin to physicians, court documents claim.

Thorkelson is accused in court documents of orchestrating the criminal enterprise surrounding the company and could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The allegations have not been proven in court.

Thorkelson, Haughton, Sigurdson, Chalus and Nakamura were released on bail. They have surrendered their passports and agreed to not move without notifying authorities.

All of the accused, minus Trueman, are represented by Winnipeg lawyers. Thorkelsons lawyer did not return a request for comment on the case Monday.

They are scheduled to appear in court July 12.

KEN GIGLIOTTI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS files Kristjan Thorkelson in 2006.

The men will be committed for extradition if a judge decides American authorities have provided enough evidence to go to trial. That decision will be made by federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, although an appeal could be pursued.

Canadians can be extradited only if the allegations are recognized as criminal by both countries involved.

In 2012, the Winnipeg-based company denied claims it was connected to the case, saying it did not sell Avastin. However, a CanadaDrugs.com manager went on to acknowledge shipping and distributing Avastin  although he claimed he was unaware the drug was counterfeit. The drug was found to contain acetone and corn starch, but no active ingredients.

American authorities charged the company and its affiliates with international money laundering, conspiracy and the smuggling of goods into the U.S. in 2014. River East Supplies, a United Kingdom affiliate of the company, is accused of falsifying customs documents in an effort to hide the product.

ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 19/06/2017 (1971 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Trudeau government is set on legalizing marijuana by the summer of 2018. While they will enjoy the political payoff of appearing progressive on this matter, all of the associated problems and the logistics of doing so will fall on the shoulders of the provincial governments and their civic counterparts.

I suggest the Manitoba provincial government draw lessons from the last time an illegal substance was legalized following Prohibition in the late 1920s, as well as from the current public health efforts to eliminate tobacco use in Canada as a means to guide their policy on marijuana.

Most critically, I urge the government to please remember that there are strong correlations between how a drug or a particular indulgence (such as gambling) is made available to the public and the propensity for individuals to indulge in it and, as a result of such indulgences, the negative health and social outcomes associated with its use.

RICHARD VOGEL / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES The federal government has moved to legalize marijuana, but it is primarily the provincial governments that will deal with the consequences.

And, as Im sure the Pallister government is well aware, along with Manitobas families, all costs associated with the (mis)use of marijuana will be borne by the provincial state. They should make acquiring recreational marijuana expensive and difficult.

To start, I suggest the province only permit selling recreational marijuana in government liquor stores, as they have the secure infrastructure in place to deal with a drug with narcotic properties. They have well-trained and professional staff, and secure logistical facilities to ensure it is distributed in a socially responsible manner.

This will eliminate the potential enormous political problem of licensing and determining where (and when) dispensaries will be permitted to open and operate. It will also eliminate the possibility of organized criminal elements establishing and operating dispensaries, as has been occurring in other parts of the country.

I also suggest the government not only control the retail end, but the wholesale as well. Recreational marijuana should be sold as a store brand in plain packaging and only offer a few different types  perhaps call them Marijuana 1, Marijuana 2, etc. This will prevent manufacturers from developing and promoting through advertising campaigns, specific brands of marijuana. Store brands are more profitable for retailers, partly because they gain more control over the manufacture and distribution process, and cut out supplier and wholesaler middlemen. All marijuana products should be kept out of sight of the public (much like tobacco products today) and the dispensary located in the far back corner of the stores.

As the sole wholesaler in the province, the government, through Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries (MLL), will be able to drive hard bargains with manufacturers, preserving higher profit margins for the government. Of course, there must also be significant taxes imposed on it, but these, in and of themselves, will not be sufficient as the government will also want to profit from the distribution of the product.

Further restricting the governments ability to raise revenue from this product is the fact that the real and nominal price of marijuana has dropped substantially over the last 25 years: a gram of pot in my high school in the 1990s cost $15, while a gram today costs less than $10 on the illegal market.

The illegal market needs to be eliminated. Contrary to popular belief, legalization will require an increase in police and legal efforts to stamp out the black market. When government liquor commissions took over distribution, bootleggers had to be eliminated or they would undercut the states monopoly on sales. In a number of U.S. states that have legalized marijuana, the unregulated and untaxed segment continues to be substantial.

Policies will need to be developed to allow the police to determine which pot has been legally procured and which has not; perhaps there will have to be rules regarding the packaging of marijuana and punishment/seizure for unverifiable weed? (Since the federal legislation will permit individual Canadians to grow their own marijuana plants at home this will make verifying legally procured marijuana considerably more difficult). These additional costs of enforcement, not surprisingly, will fall onto the provincial and civic governments.

Edible marijuana should not be sold. Eating marijuana substantially increases its potency, and often it is sold in child-attractive products such as brownies, gummy bears and the like, substantially increasing the potential for accidental consumption. If the province does decide to sell edibles, it should offer only one type with an established dosage amount. Stern warning labels, with graphic photos (much like cigarette packages) should accompany all marijuana products.

The province should establish a permit and accounting system to track who has purchased marijuana. Early Canadian liquor boards required permits and tracked individual purchases, and I suggest the MLL emulate this policy. Such a practice would allow the government to determine who is purchasing marijuana, and if individual sales could be tracked to original purchases this would aid in preventing marijuana ending up in the hands of minors. Persistent violators who resell marijuana, for instance, could have their permits revoked. Charge an annual permit fee of, say, $50.

I would also follow the advice of the Canadian Medical Association and restrict the purchase age to 21. Do not permit any advertising or promotion of marijuana anywhere in the province.

I make these suggestions as a way for the Manitoba government to make the best of a very difficult situation. Consumption of marijuana will likely rise, as will the associated costs of dealing with its effects on individuals. Like many issues in Canadian federalism, this is a classic one whereby the federal government is wholly detached from the political and policy reality of implementing the policy, and the related costs associated with it.

Make purchasing and consuming marijuana difficult and cumbersome so as to dissuade as many people as possible from consuming it and, in doing so, as a means of limiting the political and financial costs associated with this misguided policy. If the federal government doesnt like Manitobas course of action, challenge them to take you to court to make consuming pot easier.

Malcolm G. Bird is an associate professor of political science at the University of Winnipeg.
A Winona, Minn., man has pleaded not guilty to child sex charges in Buffalo County where hes accused of exploiting and enticing a girl under the age of 12 to meet up with him using social media.

Criminal complaints filed by a special prosecutor in Buffalo County accuse 32-year-old Jacob D. Vogel of first degree child sexual assault and offenses alleging child sexual exploitation and enticement for sexual gratification.

Vogel allegedly used online social media to meet up with a girl in the Town of Waumandee where investigators say Vogel engaged in sexual acts with the child inside his pickup truck in March 2016.

Investigators claim Vogel drove to Waumandee, picked the girl up and pressured her to have sex with him inside his truck parked nearby her residence.

Authorities claim the girl described in detail what happened and produced digital records and video evidence to support her allegations.

Vogel was scheduled to have a case status hearing in circuit court at Alma on Aug. 9.
People around the world come to live in the U.S. for various different reasons. Po Toos journey is a remarkable one of perseverance, hope and faith in what will come from the future.

Toos origins in a war-torn nation have strengthened her resolve and personal character. Emerging as a warm-hearted and genuine person, she looks to support those around her.

I think connection is very important, Too said. She advises other people, no matter what their struggles are, to never give up. I know life is not going to be easy but if you want to catch your dream, keep working.

Her home country of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, has been engulfed in civil war since the countrys independence from British rule in 1948. The conflict continues today through armed insurgencies and ethnic rivalries, plaguing the country with instability and military confrontation between the various factions.

One of those ethnicities are the Karen, a minority which includes Too and her family. Pos village was located in the Tanintharyi region of southeast Myanmar, and life there was made difficult by a government that didnt have their best interests in mind. In 1997, General of the Burmese Army Maung Aye stepped on the Karen flag and proclaimed, In 20 years, you will only be able to find Karen people in a museum.

His soldiers had occupied Toos village before, but they would eventually leave, allowing Pos family to return after the Burmese Army was ordered to withdraw. However, the last time they came, the Burmese Army left nothing for the people to return to. Pos village was burned down in 1997 when she was 5 years old, forcing the entire population to flee into the jungle in hope of crossing the border into Thailand. Everyone in the jungle had to contend with malaria, starvation, landmines placed by the Burmese Army, and venomous snakes lurking in the grass.

Life is always going to challenge you, Too said.

After making their way through the harsh environment of the Southeast Asian jungle, the family reached their destination. The Tham Hin refugee camp, an outpost near the Thailand/Myanmar border, was cobbled together by various nongovernmental organizations.

The closed status of the camp meant that refugees could not leave once admitted, severely limiting any opportunities and confining thousands of people to a space less than a square kilometer. Po lived in the camp for the next 9 years.

When one person was sick, everyone else would get sick, Too said. She was thankful for what was provided through international efforts but says she and her family were very lucky to get out of there.

She arrived in Lake Geneva, Wis., in September 2006, just in time for enrollment at Lake Geneva Badger High School. Toos displaced family included her, a brother, and two sisters, with Po being the oldest. They had escaped the immediate danger of an oppressive government, the parlous elements of the jungle, and the stagnancy of the refugee camp. Now, in a country known for its values of freedom, Po had the challenge of integrating into a society with a new language and completely foreign culture.

Lisa Carey, an elementary school teacher who worked with Po, became her godmother after growing closer to her family.

Po Too really, genuinely cares about people, all kinds of people, and wants to help them. She has had a lot of experiences and trials in her life that can help her relate to other people, Carey said.

She was persistent in her lessons, catching up in her areas her peers had been well versed in their whole lives. Assisted by Emmanuel Lutheran Church, who sponsored their family to help leave the camp, the family adjusted to the Midwestern way of life. New ways of finding jobs, transportation, and being prepared for the cold were obstacles that would be daunting in a foreign nation under the best conditions.

Po put her best foot forward, finding all kinds of ways to get involved in her new community. She has volunteered at the YMCA at the teen center, and was featured in YWCAs Tribute to Outstanding Women in 2016. Her other services include the public library, and being part of River Watch in La Crosse.

Too is on her way toward success after learning English and progressing through the public school system. She blazed a trail as the first in her family to attend college, obtaining an associates degree in human services from Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wis. Too attends Winona State in pursuit of a degree in social work. Her goal is to assist others with the same struggles she overcame, and to come full circle by helping refugees overcome their challenges.

Life is always going to challenge you. Po Too, WSU social work student
The Knights of Columbus Council 1837 wishes to thank all those who contributed to our annual Tootsie Roll Drive assisting people with intellectual disabilities. With your help, we raised over $4,000.

The success of this year's drive would not have been possible were it not for the cooperation of the local business owners/managers who allow our volunteers on their premises. To them we extend our heartfelt thanks. These businesses include Rechek's Food Pride, Piggly Wiggly, Shopko and Walmart Superstore.

We also wish to thank the two parishes in our area, St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Beaver Dam and Annunciation Parish, Fox Lake for their support. I could not conclude without sending a very special thanks to the volunteers who pitched in to make this years drive a success.

Alex Williams, Beaver Dam
WISCONSIN DELLS -- The Wisconsin Victim/Witness Professionals held their 27th annual conference, awards ceremony and annual meeting. As part of the ceremony, awards were presented in the categories of Professional, Law Enforcement, Business/Organization, Citizen/Volunteer, Victim Service Provider and Career of Caring for outstanding service and dedication to victims throughout Wisconsin.

In the Professional category, Susan Lockwood, program director for Family Services in Brown County and Kevin Croninger, Monroe County DA, were honored for their committed and tireless work with crime victims.

In the Law Enforcement category, Lt. Dawn Jones, from the Milwaukee Police Department, was recognized for her work to empower victims by investigating and putting together strong cases against offenders in Milwaukee. Lt. Jones is a national expert in the field of Human Trafficking. She has shown an undeniable willingness to go above and beyond while assisting victims.

In the Business/Organization category, Maurices Corporation, specifically, the store in Baraboo, were applauded for their stellar actions to comfort and support their employees after an armed suspect entered their store and held two employees and one customer at gunpoint. Maurices went above and beyond in providing counseling and additional security measures for their employees.

In the Citizen/Volunteer category, Jordan Lemanski, Brent Theisen and Kevin Weber from Dane County, were honored with their bravery and determination while an attempted carjacking was taking place in Dane County. They pulled the suspect off of the innocent driver; held him down until State Trooper Williams arrived; and continued to assist while the suspect resisted arrest.

In the Victim Service Provider, Mia Cocroft, Victim Witness Advocate from the Milwaukee County District Attorneys Office, was honored for her service to victims. Mia has been described as a zealous and compassionate advocate for crime victims in Milwaukee County.

The WVWP honored Mary Hogan, Jean McSherry; and Sherry Palmer and Mary Lea St. Thomas, posthumously, with Career of Caring awards.

As a part of the annual conference WVWP held a silent auction. Many items were crafted and donated from Wisconsin Correctional facilities. $1,549.00 was collected at the auction and were donated to Hope House of South Central Wisconsin whose mission it is to prevent abuse and provide support to victims of domestic and sexual violence in Sauk, Columbia, Juneau, Marquette, and Adams Counties.

It is the mission of Wisconsin Victim/Witness Professionals to be the leading professional organization in upholding victims rights in Wisconsin; to advance professional development of our members; to affect positive change on behalf of crime victims and witnesses; and to ensure victims and witnesses of crime are treated with dignity, fairness and respect as guaranteed by the Wisconsin Constitution. If you or someone you know is a victim of crime go to http://www.wvwp.net for information or to locate your local victim/witness service provider.
Teddy Bear Foundation and CALS Welcome Judgment In Sidney Frankel case

Court finds prescription periods for prosecuting any sexual offences invalid

The Teddy Bear Foundation and Centre for Applied Legal Studies today welcomed the judgment by the South Gauteng High Court in a case brought against accused sexual offender the late Sidney Frankel. The application challenged a section of the Criminal Procedure Act which gives the state a maximum of 20 years to initiate prosecution for a crime of sexual assault while there is no such time limit for the crime of rape.

In a landmark judgment, Acting Judge Hartford today ruled that the prescription periods for sexual offences set out in the Criminal Procedure Act are invalid and that there should no longer be time limits for prosecuting these serious crimes, saying at paragraph 68:

The law must encourage the prosecution of these nefarious offences, which are a cancer in South African society, and must support victims in coming forward, no matter how late in the day. The law should not smother a victims ability to bring sexual offenders to book, as it presently does.

The Court has suspended the declaration of invalidity for 18 months to give Parliament time to amend the relevant legislation. This judgment will now need to be confirmed by the Constitutional Court.

The Teddy Bear Foundation, represented by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies at Wits University, entered the matter as a friend of the court earlier this year to assist the Court with this important issue and support the applicants.

This is a significant step towards ensuring that the criminal justice system is responsive to all victims of sexual offences no matter when they come forward, says Sheena Swemmer, attorney at the Centre for Applied Legal Studies. The judgment recognises the devastating effects of sexual violence in our country on children and adults; women and men.

It is critical that victims of sexual abuse be treated fairly and equally before the law, says Shaheda Omar, Clinical Director of the Teddy Bear Foundation. This judgment acknowledges the deep trauma that sexual violence of any kind may have on victims and the Court has now demonstrated its understanding that the process of disclosure is in itself painful, complicated, lengthy and takes great bravery.

For inquiries, please contact:

Shaheda Omar

Clinical Director: Teddy Bear Foundation

011 484 4554

083 557 3720

shahedao@ttbc.org.za

Sheena Swemmer

Attorney: Centre for Applied Legal Studies

011 717 8609

082 491 6646

sheena.swemmer@wits.ac.za

ABOUT THE TEDDY BEAR FOUNDATION

The TBF (previously Teddy Bear Clinic) is an NGO that was established in 1986 to provide holistic child protection services. Through our facility in Parktown Johannesburg and satellite centres across the province we provide a range of services to abused children and their families. The TBF provides a range of Victim Support Services including counselling and court preparation programmes; Outreach initiatives; Diversion programmes and Multi-Disciplinary Training. For more on our activities visit www.tbbc.org.za

ABOUT CENTRE FOR APPLIED LEGAL STUDIES

The Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS) is a public interest law organisation based at the School of Law at the University of the Witwatersrand. Founded in 1978 by Professor John Dugard, CALS continues to use a combination of research, advocacy and litigation to advance human rights and social justice. Read more about our work at https://www.wits.ac.za/cals/
In giftedness, is there more darkness?

Shining a light on suicide: Tracy Cross recently founded a new Institute to collect data on suicide among gifted students. W&M held its second annual Out of the Darkness walk for suicide awareness in April. Photo by Hannah Strouth '19 Photo - of - Hide Caption

Everyone can name a few: Robin Williams, Sylvia Plath, Hunter S. Thompson. The brilliant who fell hopelessly into despair.

These high-profile suicides often suggest that gifted minds are more prone to darker days. But is that true?

A new William & Mary Institute for Research on the Suicide of Gifted Students aims to answer that question and find solutions for early intervention.

Our country does a terrific job of keeping statistics on suicide deaths, but giftedness is not a variable that is tracked, said Tracy Cross, Jody and Layton Smith Professor of Psychology and Gifted Education and the executive director of the Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary. Few things have been written on the topic, and those that have been written usually have no data. Its basically just smart people theorizing about why gifted students would be more or less vulnerable  and there are champions on both sides of the argument.

Tracy Cross has been researching the connection between giftedness and suicide for nearly 25 years. With the support of Jennifer Riedl Cross, director of research in the Center for Gifted Education at W&M, he recently started the Institute to ensure more work is done to determine what factors related to giftedness might lead gifted children and young adults to suicidal thoughts and behavior and what can be done to intervene before its too late.

What worries me isnt so much that the prevalence rates [of suicide] might be higher among gifted kids, said Tracy Cross, citing the lack of data to make any such claim.

His concern is that gifted individuals may be more successful in their attempts. Based on journals he has read from several gifted adolescents who died by suicide, he believes this population may be better at planning and carrying out their plans, leading to a higher rate of completion from attempts. He acknowledges, however, it is too early to know if this is true.

When darkness falls

Statistically, nearly 44,000 people die by suicide each year in the United States. Among people aged 15-34, its the second leading cause of death. But very little is known as to the level of intelligence or other creative talents of those who have died by suicide or made an attempt.

Disparities in the definition of gifted, the stigma surrounding suicide, and the fact that there are just a few champions researching the topic, make data notoriously scarce and difficult to collect. (According to Tracy and Jennifer Cross, the total number of school- and college-age gifted students represented in the studies is fewer than 640.)

Still, the data that has been collected offers hints as to what might make gifted students at risk for suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Perfectionism, or a self- or socially inflicted pressure to perform well, is a common characteristic among gifted students and has been found to correlate with suicide ideation in studies of psychiatric and university samples. There are also biological links (one study found a modest correlation between suicide ideation among gifted students and introversion, for example), however, Tracy Cross said he believes biology is often less of a factor than the context of the situation.

My bias is that location, treatment and access to support are much more important variables than biological predispositions, said Tracy Cross. There are certain environments where suicides are very rare and some where theyre not rare at all.

In these various environments, the lived experience of gifted students can be very different from that of their peers.

There are certain experiences that gifted kids have that only gifted kids can have, said Tracy Cross. For example, being treated in school like theyre the students who always have to make good grades  When they get to college, many of these students get admitted to highly ranked schools as superstars and then find themselves in the bottom quartile. Most kids adapt to it fine and enjoy being around other kids who have similar abilities, but a few may define themselves as failures.

These feelings can lead students toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance abuse and withdrawal from positive social supports. In some cases, there is a pivotal event in the gifted students life that contributes to a desire to escape, even if that means ending ones life. In one case of a gifted student who died by suicide in British Columbia, that moment was an arrest for stalking after an attempt to make contact with a girl at his college.

In his writing, he described himself as so socially inadequate that even his efforts to befriend someone were misinterpreted as stalking, said Tracy Cross. He kind of just gave up after that. It shifted him into this hopeless period where he thought there was no other way out.

A way to help

Based on their research, Tracy and Jennifer Cross believe that a lack of positive social support ultimately contributes greatly to the demise of a suicidal student. Making schools inclusive, safe spaces where students care about the well being of their peers is imperative, they said.

Most people who are getting to a place where suicide makes sense to them will reveal things about themselves and their situation, said Tracy Cross. There are usually warning signs. A positive climate can help when students who care about each other see these warning signs, he added. In a caring environment, students can feel comfortable going to their teacher or counselor and are more likely to seek help for their classmate.

Knowing the right thing to say to a friend in need is also important. Thats why W&M is adopting a new program to help train students, faculty and staff to spot those warning signs and encourage struggling students to seek the help they need.

There are gifted kids who feel that they shouldnt ask for help because theyre smart and they should be able to handle it, said Jennifer Cross. Its as if the label of being gifted automatically gives you the ability to deal with all of lifes problems, and thats just not realistic.

Campus Connect, a program originally developed at Syracuse University, will train up to 25 W&M faculty and staff with some background in psychology or mental health to offer training to other faculty, staff and students at W&M who are in a position to come in contact with students in distress. The three-hour class, which will launch in the 2017-18 academic year, will be open to anyone at W&M who would like to participate.

The training isnt intended to help you diagnose or do counseling, said Jennifer Cross, who is spearheading the program with Jennifer Floor, staff psychologist in the W&M Counseling Center. It would be to better prepare you to talk with someone who is in distress and ultimately get them to help, because that can be a really difficult conversation to have.

Through Campus Connect and their research at the Institute, Tracy and Jennifer Cross are hoping the conversation around suicide in schools and universities becomes more open, because that ultimately could be the key to reducing its prevalence.

Its always hard to predict to what extent people want to rally around this topic, because its scary, said Tracy Cross. The good news is that talking about suicide does not increase its likelihood  thats an old wives tale  We need to figure out how to remove the stigma around mental health so students in college  and even younger than college  feel comfortable discussing it.

For more information on Campus Connect and how to get involved, contact Jennifer Cross or Jennifer Floor . More information about suicide prevention and W&M resources may be found online




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Korea's nuclear phase-out policy takes shape

19 June 2017

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South Korean president Moon Jae-in has used the permanent shutdown of Kori unit 1 to outline his intended nuclear energy phase-out policy. He said no new reactors would be planned and existing units will not operate beyond 40 years.

Moon addresses the Kori 1 closure ceremony (Image: presidential website)

Kori 1 is a 576 MWe pressurized water reactor that started commercial operation in 1978. A six-month upgrading and inspection outage at Kori 1 in the second half of 2007 concluded a major refurbishment program and enabled its relicensing for a further ten years. A subsequent relicensing process could have taken Kori 1 to 2027, but Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) announced in August 2015 that it had withdrawn its application to extend the unit's operating licence. In June last year, the company applied to decommission the reactor. The permanent shutdown of Kori 1 was approved by the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) earlier this month.

The unit was taken offline at midnight on 18 June, having supplied 155,260 GWh of electricity over the past 40 years. Its closure makes it South Korea's first nuclear power unit to enter the decommissioning phase. KHNP is to submit a decommissioning plan for the unit within five years.

An event was held today at the plant site to mark the end of electricity generation by Kori 1. It was attended by some 230 people, including government officials, local residents, civil society organizations and employees of KHNP. Also in attendance was South Korea's president Moon Jae-in. Moon was one of seven candidates in the May presidential election who signed an agreement in March for a "common policy" for phasing out the country's use of nuclear energy.

Speaking at the event, Moon said, "I will review the policy on nuclear power plants entirely. We will abandon the development policy centred on nuclear power plants and exit the era of nuclear energy." Moon said plans for new power reactors will be cancelled and the operating periods of existing units will not be extended beyond their design life. The country's second-oldest reactor, Wolsong 1, will be shut down as soon as possible, he said, taking into consideration the power supply and demand situation.

With regards to units 5 and 6 of the Shin Kori plant - construction permits for which were approved by NSSC last June - Moon said he would reach a "social consensus" as soon as possible on whether their construction will proceed. He said the cost of constructing the units, their safety and the costs of any potential compensation would be taken into consideration.

Following the closure of Kori 1, South Korea has 24 power reactors in operation with a combined generating capacity of 22,505 MWe. Together they provide about one-third of the country's electricity.

Concerns about the safety of nuclear power plants due to earthquakes was one reason for the phase-out policy, Moon said. The Gyeongju earthquake that struck South Korea in September 2016, which he acknowledged caused no deaths, has shown that Korea "is no longer a safe earthquake zone". He said the seismic resistance of the country's nuclear power plants - which had been reinforced since the March 2011 Fukushima Daiichi accident in Japan - would be re-examined. He failed to acknowledge that it was not the earthquake itself that caused the accident at Fukushima Daiichi, but the tsunami that followed.

Moon said the transformation of national energy policy is never easy and acknowledged "there will be many difficulties". He said his nuclear phase-out policy is to gradually reduce nuclear capacity over a long period of time. Even if South Korea starts the phase-out now, it will take several decades until the currently operating fleet of reactors reach the end of their operation, Moon noted. He said the government will now "actively nurture safe and clean energy industries", including renewables and LNG power generation. "We will make the energy industry a new growth engine for Korea," Moon said.

In addition to phasing out the country's use of nuclear energy, Moon has also pledged to reduce South Korea's use of coal-fired power generation. On being elected, he immediately shut down eight old coal-fired plants and said no new such plants would be constructed. The remaining ten coal-fired plants will be closed within his term of office, he said today.

Moon has said he favours renewable energy sources as a replacement for coal and nuclear. However, it would take some time for South Korea to build up its generating capacity from renewables and it is likely to have to rely on gas to meet power demand.

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

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New blueprint for Australian electricity

19 June 2017

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The Australian government is considering the recommendations of an independent review of the country's electricity market. The review, led by Chief Scientist Alan Finkel, has drawn up a blueprint for an electricity system that will deliver future reliability and increased security, while rewarding consumers and lowering emissions.

The review was announced in October 2016, shortly after the state of South Australia suffered a widespread power outage following storm damage to parts of its transmission infrastructure. It included a public consultation process, with over 390 written submissions received and public consultations held in five cities, and over 100 meetings with stakeholders. Its final report - Independent review into the future security of the National Electricity Market: blueprint for the future - was presented to the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) on 9 June.

Australia's National Electricity Market (NEM) is the longest geographically connected power system in the world, supplying the states and territories of eastern and southern Australia - Queensland, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. It generates around 200 TWh of electricity annually, accounting for around 80% of Australias electricity consumption. Three-quarters of the country's electricity is derived from coal. Australia uses no nuclear power, despite being the world's third-ranking producer of uranium, behind Kazakhstan and Canada. All of its uranium production is exported.

The blueprint aims to deliver key benefits of future reliability, increased security, rewarding customers, and lower emissions, underpinned by three pillars of orderly transition measures, system planning and stronger governance.

Under the orderly transition pillar, the review panel concluded that a Clean Energy Target (CET) would be the most effective mechanism to reduce emissions while supporting security and reliability. This would incentivise new low emissions generation while supporting Australia's emissions reduction trajectory, the report says. During the transition, to strengthen security of supply, new generators should be obliged to provide essential services to maintain grid voltage and frequency, as well as being required to guarantee a supply of electricity at a pre-determined level when needed.

"Security and reliability have been compromised by poorly integrated variable renewable electricity generators, including wind and solar. This has coincided with the unplanned withdrawal of older coal and gas-fired generators," the report said. "Security should be strengthened through Security Obligations for new generators, including regionally determined minimum system inertia levels. Similarly, reliability should be reinforced through a Generator Reliability Obligation ... These obligations will require new generators to ensure that they can supply electricity when needed for the duration and capacity determined for each NEM region," it said.

All fuel types would be eligible for the CET scheme provided they meet or are below the emissions intensity threshold.

The report explores nuclear energy as one several "high-potential technologies and projects" which are beyond the scope of the blueprint but may have a place in a future NEM. It notes that for many countries, nuclear power provides a secure, affordable and zero emissions electricity supply, with nuclear plants' synchronous generation supporting power system security. "In Australia, the establishment of nuclear power would require broad community consultation and the development of a social and legal licence. There is a strong awareness of the potential hazards associated with nuclear power plant operation, including the potential for the release of radioactive materials. Any development will require a significant amount of time to overcome social, legal, economic and technical barriers," the report says.

"Our electricity system is entering an era where it must deal with changing priorities and evolving technologies. If the world around us is changing, we have to change with it. More of the same is not an option, we need to aim higher," Finkel said. "If we adopt a strategic approach, we will have fewer local and regional problems, and can ensure that consumers pay the lowest possible prices over the long term."

COAG leaders welcomed the report and asked the COAG Energy Council to provide "urgent advice out of session, and no later than August 2017, on which of the findings can be implemented and a timeline for doing so."

Minister for the Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg said the Australian government would "carefully consider" the report's findings. "The Turnbull Government's priority is to ensure an affordable and reliable energy system as we honour our international agreements, putting Australian jobs and consumers first," he said.

Researched and written

by World Nuclear News

Related topics
12. National Museum of Singapore -

The National Museum of Singapore is Singapores oldest museum and was started in 1849 as the Raffles Library and Museum. The museum displays exhibits related to the history of Singapore. The museum is located currently in the Museum Planning Area at Stamford Road. The National Museum of Singapores most significant exhibits include the eleven precious artifacts like the will of Munshi Abdullah, the Gold Ornaments of the Sacred Hill, William Farquhar's drawings of flora and fauna, etc. The museum is designed in the Renaissance and Neo-Palladian style.

11. Sri Mariamman Temple -

The Sri Mariamman Temple, located at 244 South Bridge Road, is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. The temple is a major tourist attraction in the region and has been gazetted as one of the national monuments in the country. The temple was founded by Naraina Pillai in 1827 who was well recognized as a leader of the Indian community in Singapore during the time.

10. Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall -

The Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall is an aesthetically designed performing arts center in Singapores Central Area. Two buildings and a clock tower connected by a common corridor are the main parts of the complex. The oldest building in the complex was built in 1862 and the entire complex was completed in 1909. Exhibitions, public events, political meetings, music and stage performances, etc., are all hosted at the venue. On February 14, 1992, the Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall was gazetted as a national monument of the country.

9. Mint Museum of Toys

The Mint Museum of Toys is a museum exhibiting a private collection of vintage toys. The museum was opened on March 5, 2007, and is located in the Arts & Heritage District of Singapore. Over 3,000 toys and childhood memorabilia from the mid-19th to mid-20th century are exhibited at the museum. The Mini Museum of Toys has been designed as a five-storey contemporary building by the architect Chan Soo Khian.

8. Istana Kampong Glam

The Istana Kampong Glam is a Malay Palace located in Kampong Glam near Masjid Sultan. The original palace was built in 1819 by Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor. He built the palace on a 23 hectares land granted to him by the British East India Company. The palace was later rebuilt several times and in 1824, its size was reduced for the North Bridge Road construction. The palace served as the royal residence for a significant period of time. The Sultan occupied the palace up until his death in Malacca in 1835. On August 6, 2015, the Istana Kampong Gelam was gazetted as a national monument of Singapore.

7. Peranakan Museum

The Peranakan Museum is housed in the Old Tao Nan School of Armenian Street which served as the former base of the Asian Civilisations Museum. It was opened on April 25, 2008. The museum features exhibits representing Singapores Peranakan cultures and other Straits Settlements in Penang and Malacca. The museum also hosts shops and eateries themed on the Peranakan style. The Peranakan Museum hosts 10 permanent galleries with exhibits showcasing the various aspects of Peranakan life.

6. Civilian War Memorial

Civilian War Memorial, Singapore.

The Civilian War Memorial or the Memorial to the Civilian Victims of the Japanese Occupation is one of Singapores heritage landmarks. The landmark is located within the War Memorial Park at Beach Road in the central business district of Singapore. The memorial is dedicated to the civilian victims who were killed during the Japanese occupation of Singapore. The memorial was built by one of the countrys most famous architects, Leong Swee Lim between 1935 and 2002.

5. Singapore Art Museum

The contemporary art museum is located in Singapores art and culture district with other major performing and visual arts institutions of the country. The Singapore Art Museum is based in a restored mission school of the 19th century. Opened in 1996, it was the countrys first art museum. The museum features a significant collection of Southeast Asian contemporary art and has a growing international contemporary art component. Talks, workshops, artist and special curator tours are arranged here to give visitors a unique glimpse and rich experience of the museum.

4. Kranji War Memorial

Located in 9 Woodlands Road, Kranji, the Kranji War Memorial is dedicated to the memory of the brave men and women who died defending Singapore from Japanese forces during World War II. The memorial features the Memorial Walls, Military Graves, War Graves, and the State Cemetery. The Kranji War Memorial also offers panoramic views of the surrounding undeveloped landscape and the skyline of Malaysias Johor Bahru.

3. Asian Civilisations Museum

The Asian Civilisations Museum is one of the pioneering museums in Singapore which feature pan-Asian culture and civilizations. The museum was opened on April 22, 1997, at the Old Tao Nan School building at Armenian Street. Currently, it is based at the Empress Place Building of the city-state. The museum has a rich collection of Chinese artifacts like Taoist and Buddhistic statuary, Dehua porcelain figures, calligraphy, etc. The South Asian Galleries feature artifacts representing the history, art, and culture of the South Asian countries. Works of the Mathura and Gandhara schools of art, fine Chola bronzes, South Indian woodwork, colonial prints, etc., are part of the exhibits at these galleries. Southeast Asian galleries at the museum feature Khmer sculptures, Buddhist art forms, Javanese sculptures, and more.

2. Masjid Sultan

Sultan Mosque of Singapore.

Masjid Sultan is regarded as one of the most important mosques in Singapore. It is located at Muscat Street in the Kampong Glam precinct of Singapore. The mosque was built between 1824 and 1826 by Sultan Hussain Shah of Johore next to his palace using funds solicited from the East India Company. The impressive prayer hall and domes of the Masjid Sultan are the star features of the structure. On March 8, 1975, it was gazetted as a national monument.

1. Thian Hock Keng

The "Palace of Heavenly Happiness or the Thian Hock Keng is a famous temple in Singapore dedicated to a Chinese Sea goddess Mazu. It is the Hokkien peoples oldest and most significant temple. On July 6, 1973, the Thian Hock Keng was gazetted as a national monument. The temple was built sometime around 1821 to 1822 and was visited by seafarers and immigrants who would thank Mazu for their arrival to Singapore after a safe sea passage. Over the years, the temple was expanded and beautified to what it is today. The temple was built using traditional Chinese design whereby, a central courtyard is surrounded by several pavilions and buildings. Dragons and other motifs have been used to decorate the roofs of the temples halls. Stone lions and Door Gods guard the doors of the Thian Hock Keng. Colored tiles, embellished and gilded beams, figures of phoenix, dragons, etc., are used to enhance the beauty of the temple.
In 2014, Romania received over 1.9 million foreign tourists. This country is home to a number of historical, natural, and urban tourist attractions. Here, tourists can visit the Danube river, the Black Sea, the Carpathian mountains, and 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This country is also home to Draculas castle, beautiful Romanian Orthodox churches, and medieval architecture throughout its cities. This article takes a closer look at the most visited cities in Romania.

7. Constanta

The famous Constanta Casino in Constanta, Romania.

Constanta is located along the coast of the Black Sea and has a population size of 283,872. This city was established around 600 AD, making it the oldest continuously inhabited city in the country. Tourists come here for its archaeological ruins, museums, monuments, and beach. The Roman Mosaics can be found here, a 9,150-square foot building filled with mosaics that once served as the citys commercial center. Other popular tourist attractions in Constanta include: the Hunkar Mosque, built around 1867; the St. Peter & Paul Orthodox Cathedral, which displays Greco Roman architecture; and the Genoese Lighthouse, built in 1860 in honor of the Genoese merchants of the 13th century.

6. Iasi

Iasi, Romania.

Iasi is located in eastern Romania in the Moldavia region and has a population size of 290,422. Archaeological evidence suggests this area was occupied by humans as far back as the 6th century AD, although its name was not recorded until 1408. This city is known as a cultural center of Romania and tourists come here to learn more its culture. One of the most popular attractions here is the Iasi National Theater, which is the oldest theater in the country. It was originally built in 1840 and today, reflects a Neoclassic style on the outside and Baroque and Rococo styles on the inside. This city also offers a number of museums, including: the Romanian Literature Museum, the Union Museum, and the Natural History Museum. Additionally, the Palace of Culture is popular with tourists and is listed on the National Register of Historic Monuments. It was built in a Neo-Gothic style between 1906 and 1907 and covers an area of 368,510 square feet. It is home to 4 museums and a number of other attractions.

5. Timisoara

A major square in Timisoara.

Timisoara is located in western Romania and has a population size of 319,279. It is a popular tourist destination due to its historic neighborhoods, unique architecture, and multiple festivals. These festivals range from literature to cinema and music to art. Many tourists to this city enjoy visiting its many synagogues, cathedrals, and palaces. Additionally, Timisoara is home to several city squares, perhaps the most famous of which is Saint George square. For those visitors interested in royal lifestyles, a visit to Huniade Castle is a good trip. This castle was built between 1443 and 1447 to take the place of the old 14th century castle. Today, it is home to the History and Natural Sciences section of the Banat Museum.

4. Cluj-Napoca

Panorama of Cluj, Romania.

Cluj-Napoca is located in the northwestern region of Romania and has a population size of 324,576. After suffering a period of political and economic downturn in the 1990s, this city is now recognized as an important historical, cultural, academic, and business hub in the country. It is home to the Babes-Bolyai University, the largest in Romania and its diverse culture is displayed through the wide range of activities here, from theater to visual arts. The most popular place to take part in these activities is the National Museum of Art, which today, can be found in Baroque-style former palace of Count Banffy. Cluj-Napoca is also home to the Saint Michaels Church, a Gothic-style building built in the 14th century. In the 19th century, the Neo-Gothic bell tower was added to the church, making it the tallest church tower in Romania. Some of the most well known monuments around the city include: the statue of Avram Iancu, the Central Park fountain, and the statue of Matthias Corvinus.

3. Sibiu

Sibu, Romania.

Sibiu is located in the Transylvania region of Romania and has a population size of around 147,245. This city lies along the Cibin river and in 2007 was nominated as the European Capital of Culture for the year, which drew a large number of tourists from around the world. This city offers well-preserved Medieval-era military fortifications and is near the Fagaras mountains, which are popular for their hiking opportunities and ski resorts. In order to check out the fortifications, one of the best ways is to head to the southeastern section of the city. These fortifications are connected by a number of passageways and tunnels. Visitors to Sibiu also enjoy visiting the Grand Square, one of the largest in Transylvania. The Brukenthal Palace, built in the late 1700s, is located in this square and holds the National Brukenthal Museum, which is one of the oldest in the world. Since 2007, Sibius has held a traditional Christmas market, which is the first in Romania and considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

2. Brasov

A view of Brasov, Romania.

Brasov is located in the central region of Romania. It is surrounded by the Carpathian mountains and has a population size of 369,896. This is a popular tourist destination because its central location makes reaching other areas in the country easy for travelers. Some of these nearby attractions include the monasteries of Moldavia and the wooden churches of Maramures. In the city, tourists can visit several sites, including: the Rope Street, the narrowest street in Romania; Catherines Gate, the only medieval-era city gate; the Black Church, a Gothic style building; and the Bran Castle, also known as Draculas Castle.

1. Bucharest

The Palace of Parliament, Bucharest.

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is located in the southeast region of the country and has a population size of over 2.1 million, making it the countrys largest city. One of the most popular areas within the city is the historic city center and one of the most well-known buildings is the Palace of the Parliament, which is the largest in the world. It houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Other popular museums include: the National Museum of Art of Romania, the National History Museum, and the Military Museum. The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum offers a unique take on a museum visit; it is an outdoor museum located in Herastrau Park and has 272 farm houses from the different regions of Romania.
Laos is a communist state with the president as the head of state and the prime minister as the head of government. The one party socialist state gained independence from the French in 1949. The country was established as a communist Peoples Republic in 1975 after the abrogation of the 1957 constitution. Under the 1957 constitution, Laos existed as a constitutional monarchy. The Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party is the only legally recognized political party in Laos, whose powers in the government are not stated in the constitution. The ruling party exercises unlimited executive power over the country and makes most of the decisions unopposed. The government also receives support from the Vietnams Peoples Army and the Lao Peoples Army.

Executive

The executive of Laos consists of the president, the prime minister, four deputy prime ministers and the council of ministers, making 28 members. The president is the head of the executive with the responsibility of appointing the prime minister and the council of ministers. The appointees have to be approved by the National Assembly. Members of the executive are eligible for a five-year term. The president is also a member of the Politburo of the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party, an all-powerful organization that makes most of the key government decisions along with the Central Committee.

Legislature

The National Assembly of Laos is a unicameral body consisting of 149 members (among them five independent candidates) who are elected for a five-year term. The National Assembly has six committees through which it performs its duties. These committees include the Law Committee, the Economy, Planning and Finance Committee, the Cultural and Social Committee, the Ethnic Affairs Committee, the National Defense and Security Committee, and the Foreign Affairs Committee. Most of the legislation made by the assembly is under complete influence from the executive branch.

Judiciary

Laos has a legal system similar to the civil law system of France. The Peoples Supreme Court is the highest legal organ made up of the court president, vice president, and chamber judges. The court consists of administrative, civil, commercial, family, juvenile, and criminal sections. The national assembly appoints the court president and vice president upon recommendation by the president. Smaller courts in Laos include the appellate courts, provincial, municipal, district, and military courts. The president and vice-president of the Peoples Supreme Court serve for five years. While the judiciary is an independent branch, executive members have a lot of influence in the cases leading to mass violations of human rights.

The Constitution

The current constitution was promulgated and adopted in 1991 after 16 years of the country operating without a constitution. A constitution is the official law of the country that defines the responsibilities of the government and citizens, and provides for the rights and freedoms of the citizenry. The Constitution established a unicameral parliament. The constitution was first amended in 2003 and later in 2015. Although the Constitution recognizes the rights of both minority and majority ethnic groups, most of the minorities bend to the demands of the majority and the ruling party. The Hmong are the hardest hit especially due to their participation in rebellion against the government. The absolute executive power of the government leads to constant violation of the constitution.
Political Environment of Libya

Libya is currently experiencing political instability and has gone through several governmental changes over the last few years. This country was under the rule of Muammar Gaddafi from 1969 to 2011, when civil war erupted. The opposing forces sought to overthrow the Gaddafi government and established the National Transitional Council as the new legal representative of Libya. On October 23, 2011, the National Transitional Council called an end to the war, just 3 days after Gaddafi was killed.

The National Transitional Council remained in power for around 10 months after the end of the war and organized an election in July of 2012. This election established the General National Congress, which took power on August 8, 2012. Once initiated, this legislative body was required to transition the country to a democratic political framework within 18 months. It was not, however, able to accomplish this feat and on June 25, 2014, the Council of Deputies was elected as the new legislative body.

The country has once again been involved in an ongoing civil war since 2014. The war is largely between supporters of the Council of Deputies and the New General National Congress, each discussed below.

Council of Deputies

The Council of Deputies, also known as the House of Representatives or Tobruk government, took office on August 4, 2014. The 2014 election is widely accepted as democratic, although there was only an 18% voter turnout due to violence in the country. On November 6, 2014, the Supreme Court of Libya ruled that the elections had actually been corrupt and that the the Council of Deputies should be disbanded. According to some accounts, the Supreme Court was threatened with violence before its decision was made. Because of this allegation, the Council of Deputies refused to step down.

New General National Congress

Shortly after the 2014 elections, the losing parties joined together to form the New General National Congress. It is primarily made up of members of the following political groups: the Muslim Brotherhood, the Loyalty to Martyrs Bloc, and the Justice and Construction party. Upon losing, this alliance formed two military forces: the Libya Shield Force and the Libya Revolutionaries Operation Room. These forces came together to take over the capital, Tripoli. This move forced the Council of Deputies to seek refuge in Tobruk, located in the eastern region of Libya.

Libyan Political Agreement

With neither legislative body recognizing the validity of the other, political progress has been at a standstill. On December 17, 2015, members of both the Council of Deputies and the New General National Congress came together to sign a political agreement with the help of the United Nations. This agreement established the Presidency Council (9 members) and the Government of National Accord (17 members). The goal was to hold elections in 2 years time. The Council of Deputies (House of Representatives) was renamed the State Council and its members were nominated by the New General National Congress. In April of 2016, the State Council took control of the government, however, just 6 months later, New General Congress loyalists (known as the National Salvation Government) took over Tripoli by force. Today, fighting among various political interests continues.
The record 57 percent abstention in the second round of the French legislative elections constitutes the initial verdict of the French people on the political program announced by Emmanuel Macron since his election as president on May 7. His anti-democratic policy of imposing a permanent state of emergency, dictating austerity by decree and militarizing the country elicits only hostility or indifference among a large majority of the population.

Macron has benefited from the absence of any real opposition. In the second round of the presidential election, Jean-Luc Melenchons Unsubmissive France (UF) and the New Anti-capitalist Party (NPA) made clear they considered him a democratic alternative to the neo-fascist National Front (FN). Facing the unity of the established parties around Macrons LREM (La Republique en Marche--Republic on the Move), those who turned out to vote gave Macron the majority he wanted. Though only 16 percent of registered voters supported his organization in the first round of the election, it will have an absolute majority of 361 out of 577 seats in the National Assembly.

According to initial estimates, The Republicans (LR) will win around 128 seats, Melenchons UF (Unsubmissive France) will obtain 18, the Stalinist French Communist Party (PCF) will win 10, and the FN will hold 8 seats. Forty-two of the 355 seats obtained by the LREM list will go to members of Francois Bayrous MoDem (Democratic Movement), which reached an electoral agreement with the LREM.

The election signals the end of an era in French and European politics, with the collapse of Parti Socialiste (PS). This social democratic party, which had dominated what passed for the left in France since its foundation in 1971, shortly after the general strike of May-June 1968, has been decimated. It dropped from 331 seats obtained in the 2012 legislative elections to 46 seats today.

In a televised address immediately after the results were announced yesterday evening, PS First Secretary Jean-Christophe Cambadelis announced his resignation. The PS, which may have to sell its headquarters on Solferino Street in Paris, will organize an emergency meeting of its secretariat Tuesday morning.

The so-called far left, including the NPA and Workers Struggle (LO), who together received 3 million votes in the 2002 presidential elections, obtained no seats whatsoever.

Macrons prime minister, Edouard Philippe, reacted to the results by declaring that he would use his parliamentary majority to press ahead with his agenda: On this Sunday, you have given a clear majority to the president of the Republic and to the government. It will have one mission: to act for France. With their vote, the French people have, in their large majority, preferred hope to anger, and confidence to despair.

Marine Le Pen, who was elected in her district of the socially devastated coal basin of northern France, declared that her FN was the only opposition party in the Assembly, given that LREM was allied to large sections of the PS and LR. The old parties have become the satellites of a movement that includes them now, she said. She called for proportional representation, spoke of the problem of legitimacy of the government, and issued a bellicose denunciation of immigrants.

The vote is yet another defeat for Melenchon. In order to promote the bankrupt perspective of a parliamentary opposition to Macron, Melenchon first pledged to beat Macron in the presidential election. Then, after his elimination in the first round, he promised to win the legislative election and become prime minister. Unsurprisingly, under conditions where all electoral polls indicated that Melenchon would win only a small minority of seats, this perspective led to defeat.

Melenchon reacted demagogically, declaring that the French people now had at its disposal a coherent, disciplined and aggressive Unsubmissive France parliamentary group in the Assembly.

The collapse of the PS is the expression within France of the disintegration of the international political context in which it developed its policies since first coming to power in 1981 under Francois Mitterrand, beginning with the dissolution of the USSR by the Stalinist bureaucracy in 1991. EU austerity policies and NATO imperialist wars waged since 1991 have deeply discredited the political establishment and social anger is rising among workers across Europe.

Voters' anger erupted against the cynicism and bad faith of claims by the previous president, PS leader Francois Hollande, to be an enemy of finance and a socialist. He supported deep austerity with the European Union, waged imperialist wars in Libya, Syria and sub-Saharan Africa, and imposed a state of emergency in response to terror attacks by Islamist networks Paris and NATO were using in the war in Syria. The principal symbol of Hollande's unpopularity was his attempt to impose the reactionary PS labor law despite mass protests and the opposition of 70 percent of the population.

Yet this was only the development by Hollande of the basic orientation of the PS--the austerity turn, support for the EU, and imperialist wars in the former French colonial empirewhich it developed starting the first time it held the presidency, under Mitterrand.

Yesterday, a new series of high-ranking PS officials lost their seats: Hollandes former Labor Minister Myriam El Khomri, Education Minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, intelligence specialist Jean-Jacques Urvoas, and rebel PS deputy Christian Paul.

The main question now facing workers and youth is how to struggle against the social counter-revolution being prepared by Macron and his absolute majority in the National Assembly. They are threatened with a permanent state of emergency eliminating basic democratic rights and a determined drive to rewrite French social law by a government aiming to enormously develop European military forces through an alliance with Berlin.

Only a broad mobilization of workers in struggle outside of the usual political and trade union channels, internationally and across Europe on the basis of an independent, revolutionary and truly socialist perspective, can stop Macrons offensive. Attempts by figures such as Melenchon to promote yet another symbolic trade union protest in the face of Macrons cuts amount to throwing dust in the eyes of the workers.

Melenchon called the mass abstention a citizens general strike and called for social resistance. He appealed for a large regroupment of political forces around him, declaring, It is the most total resistance that is legitimate under these circumstances. While it is already clear that the labor law of the PS, on the basis of which Macron is preparing his social attacks, is deeply unpopular, Melenchon proposed to organize a referendum on Macrons social measures, apparently in a forlorn attempt to convince Macron to abandon them.

The Parti de l'egalite socialiste (PES) insists that the way forward is a ruthless break with Melenchon, the NPA and all the forces that have for decades worked in the political orbit of the PS. They formed alliances with the PS and even worked to build the PS itself instead of building a revolutionary party in the working class. The collapse of the PS, after a series of defeats of struggles against austerity led by the trade union bureaucracies since the 2008 Wall Street crash, also points to their own political bankruptcy.

The collapse of the PS underscores the need for the working class to turn to revolutionary Marxism and Trotskyism, and the construction of the PES, to provide the political perspective and leadership for the coming struggles against the Macron governments policies.
An 8.5 billion euro loan to Greece was approved following a meeting of the Eurogroup council of the EUs finance ministers on June 15. The payment forms part of the 86 billion euro bailout programme signed by Greeces Syriza (Coalition of the Radical Left) government in the summer of 2015 and will be used to pay debt liabilities due in July.

The agreement was reached following a series of brutal austerity measures fast-tracked by the Greek parliament recently, as a precondition demanded by Greeces creditors. These include additional cuts to pensions of between 9 and 18 percent, the reduction of the tax-free allowance from 8,636 to 5,681, as well as cuts in heating allowance, unemployment insurance and other benefits. Measures designed to facilitate mass sackings as well as further selloffs of public assets were also enacted.

In a statement, the Eurogroup praised the Greek government, declaring that [it] welcomes the adoption by the Greek parliament of the agreed prior actions for the second review. IMF Chief Christine Lagarde also enthused, we have recently seen significant progress by the Greek government on policy reforms, with a staff-level agreement followed by supportive legislation from the Greek Parliament.

Writing in the German daily Die Welt the day before the Eurogroup meeting, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras reviewed his record in implementing the diktats of the European Union (EU) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He boasted that in the two years that our government is in office, we have implemented more reforms than all the other European states combined.

Now his government has gone a step further, he added: We have agreed to the change in the composition of our budgetary policies for the years 2019 and 2020, and have poured them into legislation, so as to reduce the reservations of our lenders with regard to our ability to achieve the agreed budgetary targets in the long term.

Tsipras article once again exposes Syrizas role as a reactionary tool of the financial elite, imposing the austerity diktat of the EU and the IMF. Syriza was swept into power in January 2015, winning mass support on an anti-austerity ticket. Just a few months later, it capitulated to Greeces creditors, signing a new bailout package and trampling the overwhelming no vote of Greek workers and youth against austerity in the July 2015 referendum Syriza itself organized.

Greeces overall debt burden remains around 300 billiona gigantic and unsustainable 180 percent of GDP. Despite Syrizas eagerness to implement austerity, talks in reaching the agreement were drawn out over a period of six months, leading to fears of a new financial crash.

The problem centered on the differences between the EU and the IMF. The IMF points out that Greeces debt is unsustainable and that a haircut is necessary, based on which it demands even more draconian cuts. This was resisted by Berlin, Greeces largest creditor, which considers debt relief as contrary to EU rules. The latest austerity measures were in fact adopted by Athens at the behest of the IMF, whose public position was that it would put pressure on EU lenders to offer debt restructuring in return.

In the end, while no deal on debt relief was reached, the IMF did agree to join the Greek programme on an Approval in Principle (AIP) basis. It stated that this would allow the IMF to be supportive of the progress made on policies, while release of resources under the IMF arrangement would be conditional upon Greeces European creditors providing commitments for debt relief sufficient to secure debt sustainability.

There were a few cosmetic concessions from the German side, in the form of additional details on potential debt relief measures. The Eurogroup statement declared that maturities could be extended by up to 15 years, and that Athens might reduce the primary tax surplus it is withdrawing from Greeces economy. It also said that debt relief should be linked to Greek GDP growth.

The agreement has enabled German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schauble to formally get the IMF on board without committing to formally agreeing to debt relief measures, which according to the Eurogroup statement would be adopted only to the extent that they are needed and will be confirmed at the end of the programme.

The need to avoid the Greek debt crisis from flaring up before the federal elections in Germany this September doubtless played a role in these calculations. IMF participation in the Greek debt programme is seen as a prerequisite within the ranks of his Christian Democratic Unions parliamentary group for the programme to continue.

Deepening international geostrategic tensions, mainly the open and growing rift between Germany and the United States since the election of Donald Trump as US president, also drove Berlin to offer the minor concessions it made. Trump has attacked German car exports to the US market and refused in a gathering in Brussels last month to reaffirm a commitment to Article 5 of the NATO treaty, which obligates member states to come to each others assistance when attacked.

These developments led German Chancellor Angela Merkel to recently declare: The times when we could fully rely on others are to some extent over We Europeans must really take our destiny into our own hands.

In asserting its imperialist interests over Europe in the wake of Trump and the potential fallout from Brexit, the German ruling elite requires the alliance of other European powers, particularly France. Newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron recently declared, I am in principle in favour of a concerted restructuring of Greek debt and in keeping Greece in the eurozone. Why? Because the current system is unsustainable.

France was instrumental in brokering the agreement last Thursday. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire held talks with both his Greek and German counterparts.

This led many commentators to hail a resurgent Franco-German axis in Europe. The Financial Times declared that German Chancellor Angela Merkel has a pro-European ally in Frances newly elected president Emmanuel Macron. His pledge to reform the French economy and zeal for greater European integration align with Merkels vision. The upshot: a reinvigorated German-Franco axis that could spawn more political cohesion and economic integration, including a eurozone budget, eurozone bonds and greater regulatory standardisation across many fragmented markets.

The example of Greece makes clear that such a Franco-German axis, far from representing an alternative to US imperialism, is itself a reactionary imperialist alliance, ruthlessly waging a social counterrevolution against workers in Europe.

The formation of such an alliance is itself only a step in a drive to world war by the imperialist powers that is already underway. Macron has pledged to bring back the draft and step up the deployment of French troops overseas, in line with German imperialisms moves to remilitarize its foreign policy.
On Friday, thousands joined separate protests in London demanding Justice for Grenfell, for the victims of the catastrophic fire that ripped through the apartment block early on Wednesday morning.

Hundreds gathered outside Kensington Town Hall, while thousands more marched from the offices of the Department of Communities and Local Government to the government district of Whitehall, past the prime ministers residence in Downing Street and then to Oxford Circus and the BBCs headquarters.

Protesters chanted Justice for Grenfell, We want justice, May must go and Blood on your hands. Many carried homemade placards denouncing government cost-cutting and deregulation that resulted in death and destruction for Grenfell Tower residents.

World Socialist Web Site reporters spoke to some of those marching.

Pablo is an architect from Spain who works in London. He said, The fire could have been avoided. It was all about cutting costs. I work as an architect and I can tell that the authorities knew exactly what they were doing. They neglected this building because its residents were not rich. In architecture, we strive to build for mankind to have a decent accommodation and public spaces in buildings. This inferno goes against the universal principles of architecture.

Pablos sister Valentina, a student in London, said, Even in Spain we have not seen a tragedy of this kind in public housing. But it could happen anywhere because of cuts and austerity.

She continued, In central London, student friends rent beds in basement rooms to live near the university. These are not rooms but simply beds. It is disgusting and no wonder fires happen. We have been in London four and half years and we have seen the housing crisis getting worse. This could happen to anyone who is not rich, but either middle or working class. That is why we are marching today.

Ade attended the rally with her friend Jane. Ade said, It is absolutely disgusting, it is disgraceful. The Conservative government, the Tory council, Theresa May, they had a chance to change the fire regulations and the laws on that and did not do it.

They put that cladding on the building and it was just a torch. And they kept telling them to stay inside the building. That is valid if the building is fire safe, but it was not. They knew it was not. The same happened in Australia, the same thing happened in Lakanal House in Camberwell [in London in 2009]. People died and they dont care, it is deliberate.

Asked what she thought of Prime Minister Mays proposal to hold a public inquiry into the fire, Ade said, You dont want a public inquiry, you want an inquest. Because if there is a public inquiry, it is all going to be behind closed doors. The families will not have a chance to get any input, to have a say. We need an inquest. It is manslaughter.

The WSWS reporter told Ade, We say it is a crime against the working class, to which she replied, It absolutely is.

Jane said, The price difference between flammable and non-flammable cladding panel is minimal. It is two pounds for each panel that burnt and it was 24 pounds for the ones that did not burn.

Patricia, a single mother from a council tower block elsewhere in London, has been hit hard by cuts to tax credits and higher council tax. I have 200-300 pounds remaining each month to live on. Over the years, you have seen your bills going up and your welfare help going down. I am a lone parent, I just need a good life. I dont want to be rich.

There needs to be justice for the victims, she continued. Kensington and Chelsea is a very rich borough. There are such wealthy properties around the estate, and a rich shopping centre. What is so insulting is that the cladding went up to make the tower just look nice for the rich people.

Megan, a former librarian who lives on a council estate in Hackney, spoke about the impact of austerity cuts: Its the National Health Service, the housing, the fire brigade being cut, as they are paying out so much for wars. Health and safety legislation has been weakened.

Made redundant last year after her library at London Metropolitan University was targeted for cuts, Megan said, You are lucky to get a council flat. A lot of people pay two-thirds of their income in rent. In London rents have always been out of proportion to what people earned at the bottom. You can see that they want poorer people out of London.

Megan said she agreed with WSWS reporters that the terrible housing conditions at Grenfell Tower were replicated throughout Britain and internationally. Yes. It is happening everywhere, she said. And housing is a right, a human right, as is food, health and free education.
Backed by US airstrikes, artillery and special forces advisors, Iraqi troops began storming Mosuls crowded Old City, where the United Nations estimates that some 150,000 civilians are trapped under the siege.

Iraqi commanders have issued triumphalist statements hailing the offensive as the beginning of the end for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), which took control of Iraqs second-largest city after government troops melted away in the face of their advance in June 2014.

This is the last chapter in the battle for Mosul, Lt. Gen. Abdul Ghani al-Asadi, the commander of the Counter Terrorism Service (CTS), the elite US-trained unit that has borne the brunt of the fighting, told the media Sunday. He warned that he expects a vicious and tough fight.

How long this last chapter will last is by no means clear. Some commanders have predicted that it will take at least a month to retake the area. US-backed Iraqi forces began their siege of Mosul eight months ago. Since then, thousands of Iraqi civilians have died under US bombs, rockets and shells. The UN has confirmed the killing of 230 civilians in western Mosul during the last two weeks alone, undoubtedly a significant undercount of the real death toll. The rest of the population has been reduced to desperate conditions, without adequate food, water or medical aid.

This final stage of the battle may well prove the bloodiest. The Old City is the most densely populated area of Mosul, with narrow alleyways that will make an advance by infantry troops difficult.

The International Rescue Committee, which is coordinating aid to the civilian population, warned that it expects a sharp rise in bloodshed. With its narrow and winding streets, Iraqi forces will be even more reliant on airstrikes despite the difficulty in identifying civilians sheltering in buildings and the increased risk of civilians being used as human shields by ISIS fighters, said Nora Love, the IRCs acting country director.

Love added that the buildings of the old town are particularly vulnerable to collapse even if they arent directly targeted.

The launching of the siege of the Old Town was preceded by an intense bombardment by US and allied warplanes, together with an intense artillery bombardment beginning at midnight.

The Washington Post quoted an Iraqi officer as reporting that the offensive began with the early morning firing of three TOS-1 thermobaric rockets into an area near a school. The so-called fuel-air weapons disperse a cloud of flammable liquid into the air around the target, and then ignite it. The results are horrific, generating a more powerful explosion and shockwave than conventional missiles and consuming all of the oxygen in the area. They can kill everything in a 3,000 square-foot area, with victims dying from the intense pressure of the blast or suffocating as their lungs rupture as a result of the air vacuum.

The use of these terrifying weapons against densely populated neighborhoods follows the earlier confirmation that the US military has attacked Mosul with white phosphorous shells, which are banned in populated areas. The incendiary chemical weapons ignite human flesh on contact, burning it to the bone.

The use of these weapons and the mounting number of civilian casualties is evidence of the US military implementing what US Secretary of Defense James Mattis described last month as annihilation tactics in the anti-ISIS campaign. Civilian casualties are a fact of life in this sort of situation, Mattis, a recently retired Marine Corps general who led the murderous sieges against Fallujah in 2004, commented at the time.

US warplanes have dropped leaflets on Mosuls Old Town urging residents to flee. While those who do face the threat of dying in US bombardments or being killed in the crossfire, the Pentagon is clearly creating the groundwork for arguing that civilians being slaughtered are either human shields or ISIS diehards.

Even if the US and Iraqi government forces succeed in retaking all of Mosul, after reducing most of this ancient city on the banks of the Tigris River to rubble, it will by no means spell an end to the savage conflict that was unleashed by the US invasion in 2003.

Sectarian divisions, manipulated by the US occupation as part of a divide-and-rule strategy, will only be exacerbated by the retaking of Mosul. The city fell to ISIS in the first place because of the bitter resentment of its Sunni majority population against the Shia-dominated government and army. Now this same army is assuming control, backed by Shia sectarian militias.

Huge numbers of people will remain homeless and in desperate need. More than a year after the so-called liberation of Ramadi from ISIS controlafter 80 percent of the citys buildings were damaged or destroyedonly 60 percent of those displaced have been able to return.

Moreover, Washington has no intention of withdrawing its troops from Iraq. It was reported early last month that the Pentagon had entered negotiations with the government of Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on a proposal that would maintain a permanent US troop presence in Iraq. The plan calls for thousands of US troops to remain in the county, deployed at five separate bases, including on the Iraqi-Syrian border.

The pretext for this continued military presence is that of preventing a resurgence of ISIS in Iraq. The real aim, however, is to further US geostrategic aims in the region, which include removing Iran as an obstacle to the imposition of unchallenged American hegemony over the oil-rich Middle East.

The Trump administration has deliberately stoked a confrontation between the Sunni regimes led by the Saudi monarchy and predominantly Shiite Iran. In Iraq, this conflict poses the threat of reigniting a bloody civil war, with or without ISIS.

This threat was underscored by remarks made over the weekend by Prime Minister Abadi and earlier in the week by his vice president, Iyad Allawi, a former CIA asset and one-time US-installed prime minister.

Abadi stressed that he would not allow Iraq to be turned into a battlefield between the US and Iran or a launching pad for attacks on Iran. If we are given the rule of the entire world and promised free reconstruction, we will not engage in hostility toward Iran, he said.

Speaking earlier in the week during a visit to Egypt, Allawi echoed Washington and the Saudi regime, accusing Iran of interfering in parliamentary elections set for next year and charging that both Iran and Qatar are seeking to split Iraq into a Sunni region in exchange for a Shia region.
The US and Mexican governments co-hosted a Conference on Prosperity and Security in Central America at the end of last week in Miami in which the Trump administration laid out a regional agenda of escalating attacks against Central American migrants, while heavily militarizing the region in preparation for global challenges.

Leading the meeting was US Secretary of Homeland Security and former Southern Command (Southcom) chief John Kelly. Also participating were Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin and Vice President Mike Pence, along with officials from Mexico, the Central American nations, Colombia, Spain and the European Union.

Building upon the Obama-era Plan Alliance for Prosperity aimed at stopping the surge in migration from the socially-devastated Northern Triangle of Central America (NTCA)Guatemala, El Salvador and Hondurasthe Trump administration has cast the migrant crisis as a question of national security, to be countered through the use of military force, on the one hand, and private capital investments, on the other.

However, the Trump administrations offensive against immigrants, arresting 38 percent more in its first three months than the same period last year, is provoking serious concerns within the Central American ruling elites over the prospect of uncontrollable social unrest. A Gallup poll commissioned for a May report by the US think-tank Atlantic Council found that three-quarters of NTCA residents have no confidence in the authorities and more than half report being worse off economically than last year.

Since last months decision by Trump to revoke the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians living in the US, fears have mounted that by the end of this year US Homeland Security will announce similar revocations in relation to Central America and deport the 263,000 Salvadoran and 57,000 Honduran TPS recipients. US officials have made no effort to allay concerns among the regional elites, instead exploiting them to further capitalisms predatory aims.

The reckless and ruthless character of the Trump administrations assault on migrant workers is underscored by such threats to deport tens of thousands to the poverty-stricken Northern Triangle, where 50,000 people have been murdered in civil-war-era levels of violence during the last three years. Moreover, according to a recent UN report, remittances comprise about 15 percent of the NTCAs GDP and, on average, 60 percent of the income of recipient households.

Discussion of the desperate social conditions in these countries was virtually excluded from the summit, mentioned only in passing as a lure for investments. The TPS was only addressed in deferential private conversations with Pence, during which the Honduran President conceded that, in the end, its a sovereign decision of the US.

More generally, pledges for infrastructure spending and economic reforms by US and Central American officials centered on attracting private investments and facilitating the exploitation of cheap labor and natural resources. Indicative of this was the approach of El Salvadors Vice-President Oscar Ortiz, of the former guerrilla movement turned bourgeois political party, the FMLN, which now heads a repressive and US-aligned government. Referring to migration on Thursday, he said: There is no better antidote than generating jobs, which is only possible if the public and private sectors share a vision together.

Amid the political warfare in Washington over foreign policy issuesin which both factions of the ruling elite look to the military for supportthe military brass has gained predominance in formulating and executing policy. The total authorization Trump has granted to the generals within his cabinet, like Kelly himself, on the battlefields in the Middle East also applies to the Northern Triangle and Latin America more broadly.

Its no accident that the Conferences second session Friday was held at the Southern Command headquarters in Miami. There, Kelly sought to draw parallels between the NTCA plan and Plan Colombia or the Colombian miracle, as he described it in his address. Signed into law in 2000, Plan Colombia sought to escalate US military presence in the country in order to wage a bloody war on the FARC guerrillas and on the poor peasantry.

The ultimate aim of Kelly and the US ruling elite more broadly is to tighten their grip over the US underbelly of Mexico, Central America and Colombia, and continue expanding its chokehold southward.

China continues to increase its economic influence in Latin America at the expense of the US. This was exemplified by the Panamanian governments decision last week to break diplomatic relations with Taiwan and adhere to Beijings One China policy, explicitly invoking Chinas large investments in the Canal and the Colon Free Zone.

At the same time, as imperialist tensions between the US and the European Union deepen, the European powers have sought to use Trumps protectionist stance to expand their involvement in Latin America. Last week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel visited Argentina and Mexico, portraying Germany as a more open and free alternative to the US under Trump. In Mexico, Merkel said walls will solve no problems, according to El Pais, and concluded: Only when great empires are able to come into agreement and have good relations with neighbors do they have success.

On Thursday, June 8, Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales visited French President Emmanuel Macron, who gave indications that France will remove Guatemala from its black list of tax heavens as a means to attract greater investments and emphasized his will to accompany Guatemala in its economic and political transformation.

The US financial and corporate elites see these developments as challenges to its influence in what it regards as its own backyard. As elsewhere in the world, US imperialism seeks to counter the decline of its economic position through military means.

Plans are currently being carried out to militarize Mexicos border with Guatemala as a means of stopping migrants and preparing for broader war. At a Central American Security Conference convened by Southcom in April, the Guatemalan defense secretary announced plans for a new US Southcom military base in the department of Peten, which borders Mexico, for joint air, sea, and land operations.

On Monday, the Mexican news magazine Proceso reported that a new Mexican army base is being built in Chicomuselo, close to the Guatemalan border. The areas military commander signaled the bases alignment with the US anti-immigrant and military policies, declaring that its purpose is to achieve safer, more respectable and prosperous borders for everyone and all who live or travel across the Mexican territory.

While the plans for massive deportations and militarized borders are carried out, the workers, peasants and youth in Central America face conditions of widespread violence, unemployment and super-exploitation, while confronting the repressive military apparatuses and death-squads of the ruling elites that killed hundreds of thousands during the US-backed counterinsurgency wars of the 1970s and 1980s.

As the Central American governments impose regressive tax laws and austerity to attract investments, human rights groups and environmental NGOs are attempting to channel social opposition behind empty appeals to the State Department or the US-controlled anti-impunity advisory groups like CICIG in Guatemala and MACCIH in Honduras, organizations that serve as window-dressing for corrupt regimes and instruments of US coercion against the local political elites.

At the same time, middle-class political organizations are diverting the growing unrest behind the trade unions and bourgeois nationalist parties like the URNG and Convergencia in Guatemala, LIBRE in Honduras (the political arm of the Popular Resistance National Front), or the ruling FMLN in El Salvador. These forces have all but dropped even verbal opposition to the diktats of Washington and US finance capital, with which they are allied in a common offensive against workers through militarization and regressive adjustments.

The only way forward against the Trump administrations assault on immigrants and the militarization of the region is to develop an independent political movement of the working class against US imperialism, war and inequality, uniting workers across Central America, Mexico, the United States, and internationally.
The Grenfell Tower fire in London is an event that sums up all that is rotten in contemporary capitalist societynot just in Britain, but throughout the world.

Over 100 peoplethe final toll could go much higherwere burnt to death because they were working class and poor. They were murdered in clear sight of some of the richest people in the world by a ruling elite driven by an insatiable appetite for the money to be made through swindling, theft and social vandalism.

The inexorable growth of social inequality surpasses anything previously seen in history. Nearly a third of Londoners live in poverty, and most of these are working. The rich and the poor live cheek by jowl, but they might as well live on different planets.

Global speculation in London housing is such that there are 20,000 ghost homes, worth multiple millions, which have never been occupied by their owners, while the 675,000 average price puts a house out of reach for millions.

Grenfell Tower residents lived in a death trap built in one of the most deprived areas of the UK, situated within its wealthiest constituency, where the average price of a terrace house is over 4 million.

The Conservative-run authority, instead of making Grenfell Tower safer, presided over a cosmetic facelift to make the property less of an eyesore to the boroughs rich residents and ensure that their property values werent negatively impacted.

The companies involved, Rydon and Harley Facades, installed cheap aluminium and polyethylene panels that were not fire-resistantin order to save 5,000. No sprinklers were installed.

Chancellor Philip Hammond has admitted that the materials used are supposed to be banned. Yet it was the Tory government that created the basis for this type of criminal behaviour through a process of deregulation of housing safety rules and the suppression of a series of safety recommendations made after previous fires.

Three years ago, then-London Mayor Boris Johnson closed ten fire stations, with the loss of 552 fire fighters jobs and 14 engines. He told those who questioned his decision to get stuffed.

But the genesis of mass murder at Grenfell Tower must be sought earlier still. Those who stand indicted include Margaret Thatcher, who began the process of transforming Britain into a social desert and London into a playground of the rich; Tony Blair, who set about completing the Thatcher Revolution, including the selling off of one million council houses while building a 27 million property portfolio for himself; and David Cameron, who declared an age of austerity for the working class and a bonfire of regulations for his friends in the City, in Britains boardrooms, and among the landlords who infest the Tory Party.

To do justice to the vileness of it all, it would take a modern-day Engels, the man who wrote:

What is true of London is true of Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, is true of all great towns. Everywhere barbarous indifference, hard egotism on one hand, and nameless misery on the other, everywhere social warfare, every mans house in a state of siege, everywhere reciprocal plundering under the protection of the law, and all so shameless, so openly avowed that one shrinks before the consequences of our social state as they manifest themselves here undisguised, and can only wonder that the whole crazy fabric still hangs together.

If it hangs together still, it is only because the outpouring of rage at what has occurred finds no political expression. Thousands have taken to the streets to demand Mays resignation and call for the guilty to be brought to justice. They have met Mays promise to hold a public inquiry with denunciations of yet another cover-up.

It is under these circumstances that Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn issued an open letter to May lending his support to her inquiry. His letter offers our Dear Prime Minister Labours support for her promised full and independent public inquirywith the sole proviso that it will be held under the provisions of the 2005 Inquiries Act.

This inquiry is a fraud. Amnesty International urged all members of the British judiciary not to serve on any inquiry held under the Acts auspices because it would be controlled by the executive which is empowered to block public scrutiny of state actions.

Tens of thousands have signed a petition expressing no confidence in such a public inquiry, agreeing with Sophie Khan, the solicitor who represented victims of a 2009 tower block fire in Camberwell, who said, Im very concerned as to why Mrs. May came out so quickly to say public inquiry. What is there that she knows that needs to be hidden?

Corbyn makes no mention of this. Instead, he suggests in the most obsequious terms that the inquiry should have Terms of Reference of sufficient scope...to ensure that all necessary lessons are learned.

He never once denounces the cover-up being carried out by the government, or its role in events leading to the Grenfell Tower inferno. Instead, he politely asserts his belief that the policies and priorities of your government in the arenas of social housing and public safety are legitimate targets for my criticism. He then adds, no less cringingly, I hope we both share a determination to discover the truths underpinning this tragedy, and then appeals for an early consultation with May.

The only practical measure he proposes is that May provide information regarding further funding plans on top of the measly 5 million announced so far, and urges her to demonstrate an attitude of generosity and compassion in relation to the costs of funeral expenses and ensuring that it is possible for families living outside the UK to travel here to attend funerals, as well as participate in the inquiry.

Reality here defies satire. Corbyn wants nothing more than to once again appear reasonable to the ruling class at a time when their favoured government is teetering on the edge of collapse and he is submitting himself and the Labour Party as an alternative. Heaven forbid he might be accused of responding to widespread public outrage and giving it political direction!

What would any genuine workers leader say at such a time?

He would ask why the guilty, including Johnson, the Tory leaders of the council and all those involved in the refurbishment of Grenfell Tower, have not been arrested and questioned.

He would draw up a list of those who should be charged and publish it far and wide.

Above all, he would insist that the minority Conservative government had no right to rule and demand its immediate resignation.

He would advance a socialist programme of radical redistributive measures to address the social nightmare created by capitalism.

Corbyn has done none of this. The minimal reforms he advances are determined by what he calculates can be afforded within the parameters of the existing social orderwhat the ruling class can reasonably be expected to give back to those whom it has plundered in order to preserve social peace.

The criminal looting of the wealth of society is not simply the responsibility of a few bad people. It is the expression of the very essence of capitalist society, which is based on ruthless class exploitation in which, as Marx insisted, Accumulation of wealth at one pole is, therefore, at the same time accumulation of misery, agony of toil, slavery, ignorance, brutality, mental degradation at the opposite pole...

The struggle against social inequality and the horrors it produces is the struggle for the revolutionary overthrow of the profit system.
On Friday, Rosenda Perez, an immigrant mother of four children from San Diego, was released on $15,000 bail from the Otay Mesa Detention Center run by the for-profit CoreCivic, formerly known as Corrections Corporation of America.

Perez had been separated from her family for almost a month since she and her husband were arrested by California Border Patrol on May 23. Her husband, Francisco Duarte, remains imprisoned in the Otay Mesa jail, while representatives of the family told media outside the facility that they are appealing his case.

The Duarte family would have been another statistic in the Trump administrations war on immigrants had it not been for the efforts of the children, including the oldest, 19-year-old Francisco Jr., to post their story on social media where it has been followed around the world.

A GoFundMe account was set up to help pay living expenses for the family, since Francisco Jr. was the only one left to care for his three younger siblings. The page raised more than $70,000 in the first week, mostly small donations from neighbors, friends, activists, teachers and anonymous contributors.

The couple had lived in the US for over 20 years running an ice cream business in National City, adjacent to the US-Mexico border. The Border Patrol was later forced to admit that neither has a criminal record and had not been charged with any crime, other than being undocumented immigrants.

At Fridays bail hearing, members of the media, including a reporting team from the World Socialist Web Site, were not allowed to take any cameras or recording devices onto the property of the Otay Mesa Detention facility, where an estimated 3,800 souls in the custody of ICE and US Marshals languish under the hot desert sun.

The jail is run by the re-branded for-profit private contractor Correction Corporation of America, or as it is now known CoreCivic. The widow of a Mexican man who died from medical neglect at the same facility is now suing the federal government and CoreCivic for ignoring his pleas for help. He died from complications of pneumonia, despite being in their care for weeks.

Due to such bad publicity the company decided to rebrand itself as CoreCivic, and now with the Trump administration in office, business is booming. Since inauguration day, 41,000 people have been arrested for immigration status by federal agents, an increase of 40 percent since the same period a year ago. Of this group, one quarter did not have a prior criminal record. This represents a doubling of noncriminals arrested by agents since last year.

Whereas the Obama administration was equally heartless to immigrant families (the number of detained immigrants is less than its height in 2014), for electoral purposes Obama decided to lessen the attacks on immigrants in time for the 2016 elections. With Trump now in office, the gloves are off, and immigrant families like the Duartes, with deep ties in the community and many with US citizen children, are considered fair game once again.

To describe the Otay Mesa Detention Facility as Orwellian is an understatement. Located only a few miles from the US-Mexico border, it is surrounded by an electrified fence and razor wire. The WSWS reporters were not even allowed to take notes of the proceedings. A guard constantly drove around the parking lot staring down reporters.

The bail hearing itself had an unmistakably authoritarian and anti-democratic feel to it as well. The mother and father were not allowed to make any eye contact with or physical gestures toward their children, from whom they have been separated for the better part of a month.

Not everyone was allowed into the court chamber, in order to make room on the benches for the next batch of detainees and government agents. The entire proceedings had an intensely rushed character, with the judge constantly invoking time limits for the defense.

Francisco and Rosenda were dehumanized and referred to as illegal aliens throughout the hearing. The government attorney constantly interrupted the defense and accused the parents of running a human smuggling operation, even going so low as to accuse the Duartes of exploiting immigrants in their ice cream cart business and charging them half of their pay for rent.

These accusations were based on the single testimony of an unnamed individual from an unrelated case. The history of modern jurisprudence, where an individual is presumed innocent, until proven guilty, was turned on its head. The Duarte parents had to prove they were not human smugglers and were not exploiting their friends and neighbors. The right to face ones accusers was entirely dispensed with as well.

The hearing had a definite political logic: to present a semblance of legality while deporting as many people as humanly possible. One can only imagine the suffering and injustice taking place out of sight within the jail walls.

Bail was granted to Rosenda at an exorbitant $15,000. Francisco was determined by the judge to be a flight risk and remains imprisoned. The children, who had planned to make statements in their parents defense, were denied the opportunity by the judge who did not find it relevant to the case.

Ruben Salzar (no relation to the late journalist), made a brief statement to reporters after the hearing vowing to continue the fight to release Francisco as well: We must continue to fight, immigrant rights are human rights. Benjamin Prado, another representative of the family, questioned the Border Patrol accusations of human smuggling, saying, We feel that its a method to slander a family thats hard-working.
In a marked escalation of the war in Syria, a US F-18 fighter jet yesterday shot down a Syrian government fighter bomber for the first time, claiming that it had been attacking pro-US rebel forces on the ground near Raqqa. While nominally fighting Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) forces, the US shoot-down makes clear that the real aim of American-led operations is the ousting of the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad.

The US military justified the provocative act by claiming that the Syrian SU-22 had been bombing near so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) troops. It cited fighting that had taken place hours earlier between the Syrian military and SDF forces holding the town of JaDin as showing hostile intent and declared that attacks on legitimate counter-ISIS operations will not be tolerated. The statement absurdly declared that it was not seeking to fight Syrian regime, Russian or pro-regime forces partnered with them.

There is nothing legitimate about the military activities of the US and its allies inside Syria, which, under the guise of the war on terror, are seeking to carve out areas that can be used to mount operations against the Assad regime and its Russian and Iranian backers. As ISIS militias in both Syria and Iraq are in retreat, the US preparations to move against Assad are coming increasingly into the open.

The Syrian army issued a statement saying that its aircraft had been on a mission against ISIS when it came under fire, accused the US of coordinating with ISIS, and warned that the incident would have dangerous repercussions. The pilot has not been found and is presumed dead.

The US attack follows its shooting down of an unmanned pro-Syrian government drone earlier in June after it allegedly fired on US-backed troops in southern Syria near the border with Iraq. The US military has unilaterally declared a deconfliction zone with a radius of 55 kilometres around a training base at al-Tanfa key border crossing between the two countries.

In effect, Washington has carved out an area of Syria where US and British special forces train so-called rebelssupposedly to fight ISIS, but in reality for its proxy war against the Assad regime. The US has already conducted air strikes against pro-Syrian government forces that have sought to regain control of the vital border area.

Last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov phoned US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and demanded that the US stop attacking Syrian government forces as they seek to drive ISIS militias out of the border areas. Lavrov expressed his categorical disagreement with the US strikes on pro-government forces and called on him to take concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, the Russian Foreign Ministry reported.

The situation throughout Syria remains extremely fraught, with the Assad regime accusing the US-led forces besieging Raqqa of allowing ISIS fighters to escape to the south, where government troops are battling ISIS for control of the city of Deir es-Zor.

Over the weekend, Irans military fired ground-to-ground missiles for the first time from Iranian territory against ISIS positions inside Syria. While claiming that they were in retaliation for the June 7 ISIS attacks in Tehran, the missile attacks into the Deir es-Zor area were clearly aimed at bolstering the Syrian government forces.

The US proxy war in Syria is part of a broader confrontation which is aimed not just at the Assad regime, but more broadly against its backersIran and Russia. Trumps trip to the Middle East last month was above all aimed at forging an alliance with Saudi Arabia and its allies in the Gulf States against Iran and its allies in the region.

The immediate outcome was the imposition of an all-out, Saudi-led economic blockade against Qataritself an act of war. Riyadh accused Qatar of sponsoring terrorism, but the real reason lies in Qatars relations with Iran and its reluctance to join Saudi Arabia in its anti-Iranian war drive.

The Saudi monarchy, which has long regarded Iran as its chief regional rival, is deeply hostile to the Assad regime in Damascus, which it regards as part of a Shiite crescent that includes Shiite parties and militias in Iraq and Lebanon. Backed to the hilt by the US, Saudi Arabia is waging its own war in Yemen against Houthi rebels, who, it claims, are being supported by Iran and who ousted the US-Saudi puppet government in 2014.

The Trump regime signalled its determination to ramp up the war in Syria in April when it launched a barrage of cruise missile strikes against a Syrian government air base on the pretext of unsubstantiated claims that the regime had carried out a gas attack. The US military is determined to rebuild anti-Assad forces after the devastating blow suffered by these pro-US militias in being driven out of Aleppo.

The shooting down of the Syrian SU-22 is another demonstration that the US is prepared to resort to the most reckless means to defend its footholds in Syria and lay the basis for the broader war that is being prepared.

While proclaiming its own deconfliction zones or no-go areas, the US military reiterated last month that it will operate at will throughout Syria. We dont recognise any specific zone in itself that we preclude ourselves from operating in, Lieutenant General Jeffrey Harrigan, commander of the US air forces in the region, declared.

As a result, the stage is set for a dramatic escalation of the Middle East conflict, where a relatively minor incident or clash involving US forces and their Syrian, Iranian or Russian counterparts could erupt into a war that draws in major regional and world powers.
New York Citys self-proclaimed progressive Democratic mayor, Bill de Blasio, declined last week to fund a $50 million-dollar pilot program that would provide half-priced MetroCards to low-income New Yorkers, as part of the fiscal 2018 budget.

Currently, a single-ride full-fare MetroCard costs $2.75. An unlimited monthly pass costs $121. Some reduced fares are given to groups such as seniors and primary and high-school students during the school year. In addition, the city provides about $50 million dollars worth of free or discounted fares though a variety of programs.

The non-profit Community Service Society and the advocacy group Riders Alliance have campaigned for the reduced-fare program, which has been dubbed the Fair Fares initiative. The proposed program was passed by the New York City Council on June 6 and had the support of a wide range of advocacy groups and trade unions.

The advocates of the program estimate that the initiative would eventually cost the city roughly $194 million to provide discounted MetroCards for about 360,000 people. Over 800,000 New Yorkers could potentially qualify for the program, with the vast majority dependent on public transportation.

De Blasio, who was elected in 2014 on a pledge to address the staggering level of social inequality in Americas largest city, has consistently refused to support the Fair Fares initiative. Last January, in an interview with the Gotham Gazette, he said, We just cant afford [the Fair Fares initiative]. Its just not something we can get into the city budget. And also I think its a state responsibility. I think the state cant have it both ways on the MTA [Metropolitan Transit Authority].

According to a report titled The Transit Affordability Crisis, put out last year by the Community Service Society and Riders Alliance, hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers are adversely affected by the high cost of public transit.

The report notes that for more than 300,000 workers in New York, transit expenses exceeded 10 percent of family income, and many households are forced to choose between transportation and other necessities.

The report also stated that the majority of lower-income workers in New York are largely dependent on public transportation. Among poor New Yorkersdefined as living below the federal poverty level, which is $11,880 for an individual and $24,300 for a family of fouronly 15 percent relied on a car for transport, and only 30 percent had access to a car in 2014.

Similarly, 56 percent of near-poor New York City residentsindividuals in households making less than twice the federal poverty levelalso depended on the subway and bus system.

The report further detailed that 28 percent of individuals in poor households and 25 percent in near-poor households had often been unable to afford subway or bus fares in 2015. The number was even higher for working-age New Yorkers with less than $100 in savings, with four out of 10 saying they had difficulty affording transit fares.

The high cost of transit compounds the crisis facing large sections of workers who struggle to find work and affordable housing.

Roughly a quarter of low-income working-age New Yorkers surveyed in the report stated that the cost of subway and bus fares had prevented them from receiving medical care. Twenty-seven percent of low-income individuals also said the high cost of fares prevented them from looking for a job farther from home.

Poverty often prohibits workers from being able to purchase more cost-effective transit options, such as a 30-day unlimited ride pass. For most workers in New York, a monthly fee of $121 is onerous. The number of employers who subsidize this cost has been steadily declining for decades.

According to the report, near-poor New York residents use 30-day unlimited passes only 18 percent of the time.

According to the de Blasio administrations own report, New York City Government Poverty Measure 2005-2015, costs for commuting have the second-highest effect on raising the citys poverty rate after medical expenses.

De Blasios failure to curb growing transit costs for the citys working class is consistent with his record of posing as a defender of poor and disenfranchised residents while serving the interests of the very wealthiest New Yorkers and the police.

The city has continued to implement a policy of Broken Windows policing, based on cracking down on minor crimes, particular fare-beating or turnstile-hopping in the MTA.

According to data released by the New York Police Department (NYPD), there were 6,217 arrests for theft of services in the MTA within the first three months of this year. This is a 16.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year. In 2016, the NYPD arrested 24,591 people for theft of services on the MTA and issued 67,166 civil summonses. The NYPD has refused to release demographic information on the arrests.

A breakdown of arrests by neighborhood would undoubtedly reveal that fare-beating is a crime of poverty. In the borough of the Bronx, the poorest urban county in the Unites States, it is not uncommon to see workers and youth boarding a bus by the back door (where the driver is not present) since they cannot afford to pay for a ride. A ubiquitous sight in the New York City subway stations is the man or woman, often young, requesting a swipe from a commuter exiting a turnstile who may have an unlimited ride card.

The high cost of traveling on the MTA comes at a time when the systems infrastructure is in an advanced state of decay. The price of a fare will buy a worker a place on an overcrowded subway car, along with undependable service and increasingly long delays, sometimes in the middle of a tunnel without light or air conditioning. The experience is complete with filthy, vermin-infested stations, malfunctioning public address systems, and heavily armed police stationed at major transit nexuses.

The failure of the de Blasio administration to provide minor reforms for hundreds of thousands of workers living in poverty is a testament to the political bankruptcy of the Democratic Party. Within four years, his supposedly left-wing administration has virtually dropped any pretense of fighting for the disenfranchised. The mayor now serves as an apologist for the immense inequality and impoverishment in the city, while working to embolden the police to crack down on workers.
The Provisional Government in Russia is preparing a major military offensive, backed by the Menshevik, petty-bourgeois, and populist leaders. However, masses of workers, peasants and soldiers oppose the planned offensive and demand peace. When the Bolsheviks call for a peaceful demonstration against the offensive, the Menshevik leaders of the Congress of Soviets are outraged and threaten the Bolsheviks with repression.

In a session of the Soviet Congress, the Menshevik leader Irakli Tsereteli loses his temper and unfurls his true counterrevolutionary colors, declaring that the Bolsheviks must be suppressed with different methods of warfare, prompting the Bolsheviks to walk out.

Lenin and the Bolshevik leaders, in hopes of avoiding counterrevolutionary violence, abruptly call off the demonstration, causing much resentment and consternation among workers and even within the party ranks. However, the speech by Tsereteli marks a turning point in the Russian Revolution and sends shock waves through the country. Tseretelis speech demonstrates how far the supposedly socialist Mensheviks are willing to go to defend the capitalist state and its war aims.

Bern, Switzerland, June 19: Arthur Hoffmann resigns from parliament

Swiss Federal Councilor Arthur Hoffmann, head of the Federal Political Department, submits his resignation to President E. Schulthess. It is an extremely unusual step for a member of the Swiss parliament. The resignation letter states, The unauthorized release of a coded dispatch which I directed to National Councilor Grimm through the intermediary of the Swiss embassy in Petrograd has created a situation that could prove disastrous for the domestic and foreign relations of the country.

The attorney and politician Hoffmann, a member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), had worked for banks and insurance companies before his political career led him into the Swiss government in 1911. He was considered staunchly pro-German. In August 1914, during his time as president, he made sure that Hamburg-born General Ulrich Wille, infamous for his cruelty toward soldiers, took over the high command of the Swiss military during the war.

When socialist Robert Grimm, chairman of the Zimmerwald movement, established contact with Hoffmann in April 1917, to secure the return of Russian emigrants through Germany, Hoffmann seized the opportunity and sought with Grimms help to assess the possibility of a separate peace between the Central powers and Russia.

The secret correspondence between the German embassy in Bern, the Swiss foreign ministry and the Swiss embassy in Petersburg accelerated quickly. Reports in the international press about the Grimm-Hoffmann affair created a major scandal and drew the attention of the Entente powers of France and England. The British ambassador in Bern, Sir Horace Rumbold, made it clear to Hoffmann that he had exposed the Swiss government to accusations that it was acting on behalf of Germany.

In Romandy, the French-speaking West Switzerland, the affair also provoked a wave of criticism. Notwithstanding the supposedly strict neutrality of Switzerland, the sympathies in the west there were more inclined towards France. Meanwhile, those living in German-speaking northern and eastern Switzerland tended to side with Germany. Since the beginning of the war, sharp tensions between both sides of the population had developed. To calm the domestic and foreign policy waters, the government replaced Hoffmann with the Genevese Gustave Ador, the president of the international committee of the Red Cross.

Petrograd, June 20 (June 7, O.S.): Lenin denounces planned Kerensky offensive

In his article, The Diehards of June 3 Favor an Immediate Offensive, Lenin denounces Kerenskys planned military offensive, which had been agreed upon in a secret meeting of the Duma (parliament) on June 16 (June 3, O.S.). Attacking the Menshevik minister and leader of the Petrograd Soviet Irakli Tsereteli, together with the SR minister Viktor Chernov, Lenin writes in Pravda:

To favor an immediate offensive means being in favor of continuing the imperialist war, slaughtering Russian workers and peasants in order to strangle Persia, Greece, Galicia, the Balkan peoples, etc., reviving and strengthening the counterrevolution, completely nullifying all the phrases about peace without annexations, and waging war for annexations. To be against an immediate offensive means being in favor of all power passing to the Soviets, of arousing the revolutionary initiative of the oppressed classes, of an immediate offer by the oppressed classes of all countries of peace without annexations, peace based on the precise condition of overthrowing the tyranny of capital and liberating all colonies, all the oppressed nationalities, or nationalities not enjoying full rights, bar none. .... You must choose the one or the other. Tsereteli, Chernov and the rest prefer a middle course. But there is no middle course. If they vacillate or try to get away with mere talk, they, Tsereteli, Chernov and the rest, will completely make themselves tools in the hands of the counterrevolutionary bourgeoisie.

Petrograd, June 21 (June 8, O.S.): Bolshevik Party leadership decides to hold peaceful demonstration on June 10

An enlarged meeting of the Central Committee and the Petrograd Committee of the Bolshevik Party approves a peaceful (i.e., unarmed) demonstration under the Bolshevik slogans Power to the Soviets and Down with the Ten Minister-Capitalists, planned for June 10. The call for the demonstration is supported by several other organizations, including the Central Council of Factory and Shop Committees and some anarchist groups. One day later, Trotskys Mezhraiontsy (Interdistrict Group) vote in favor of joining the demonstration. The antiwar demonstration is addressed to the Congress of Soviets, which is still convening in Petrograd.

The demonstration had first been proposed by the Bolshevik Military Organization in response to increasingly militant moods among the most advanced sections of the working class and the garrison in Petrograd and in Kronstadt. Just a few days earlier, the Conference of Factory Committees had adopted Bolshevik resolutions. In the industrial Vyborg District of Petrograd, 37 Bolsheviks were elected to the Duma, compared to only 22 from the Socialist Revolutionary-Menshevik Bloc and 4 Kadets.

In a growing number of factories and regiments, workers and soldiers are passing resolutions based on Bolshevik slogans and demands, most notably, All Power to the Soviets. Discontent with the impending Kerensky offensive is rampant, especially among the soldiers of the Petrograd garrison. Trotsky later writes in The History of the Russian Revolution:

The idea of a showdown between the Petrograd workers and soldiers and the congress was suggested by the whole situation. The masses were urging on the Bolsheviks. The garrison especially was seethingfearing that in connection with the offensive they would be distributed among the regiments and scattered along the front. To this was united a bitter dissatisfaction with the Declaration of the Rights of the Soldier, which had been a big backward step in comparison with Order No. 1 and with the regime actually established in the army.

Petrograd, June 22 (June 9, O.S.): Soviet Congress passes three-day ban on all demonstrations

The Bolsheviks announcement of the planned demonstration on June 10, published in this days Pravda, explodes at the Congress of Soviets like a bombshell. The Soviet leadership, dominated by Mensheviks and Social Revolutionaries, regards the demonstration as a direct challenge not only to its power, but also to the Provisional Government. The Menshevik leader Chkheidze warns the Congress delegates: If measures are not taken by the congress, tomorrow will be fatal.

Tsereteli becomes hysterical, white as a sheet:

Let the Bolsheviks accuse uswe now move to different methods of warfare. ... The Bolsheviks must be disarmed. The technical means they have had up to now has been too great. It cannot be left in their hands.

Tseretelis speech provokes a stunned silence even within the Menshevik and populist-dominated Soviet. As the Menshevik Sukhanov later notes, Tsereteli is effectively calling for disarming the proletariat.

The Bolsheviks really did not have any special stores of weapons. All the weapons were actually in the hands of soldiers and workers, the immense mass of whom were following the Bolsheviks. Disarming the Bolsheviks could mean only disarming the proletariat. More than that, it meant disarming the troops.

As spokesman of the Bolshevik faction, Lev Kamenev indignantly challenges Tsereteli: Mr. Minister, if you are not tossing words into the wind, you have no right to limit yourself to a speech; arrest me and try me for conspiracy against the revolution. The Bolsheviks walk out of the meeting. A heated discussion follows. On behalf of the Mezhraiontsy, Leon Trotsky attacks Tsereteli and defends the Bolsheviks. Yuli Martov, leader of the Menshevik-Internationalists, speaks out against Tsereteli, cautioning:

Much has been said here about Bolshevik adventurism but dont forget that you are dealing not with a small group of Bolsheviks, but with the great masses of workers who stand behind them. Instead of trying to attract these masses of workers away from Bolshevik influence, you hasten to measures that will create a gulf between you and the more active part of the proletariat.

Martov and Fyodor Dan, another Menshevik leader, propose a different resolution that would provide only for a three-day ban of all demonstrations and the expulsion from the Soviet of anyone disobeying the ban. Their resolution is eventually adopted by the majority of the Soviet Congress.

A few hours later, at 2 a.m. on June 23 (June 10), the Bolshevik Central Committee decides to respect the ban and call off the planned demonstration, fearing that the demonstration might be used for an onslaught of counterrevolutionary violence.

Throughout the night, 500 members of the Soviet flock into the Petrograd neighborhoods to implore the workers and soldiers not to attend the planned demonstration. However, the workers greet them in an almost hostile mood. At some places, workers tell the Soviet delegates, We are not your comrades. The official organ of the Soviet, Izvestia, describes the nocturnal sojourn of the Soviet delegates:

All night long, without a wink of sleep, a majority of the congress, more than 500 members, dividing themselves into tens, travelled through the factories and shops and military units of Petrograd, urging everybody to stay away from the demonstration ... The congress had no authority in a good many of the factories and shops, and also in several regiments of the garrison ... The members were frequently met in a far from friendly manner, sometimes with hostility, and quite often they were sent away with insults.

Most workers only agree, grudgingly, to call off the demonstration after they learn the next morning that the Bolshevik Central Committee has decided to respect the ban.

Kiev, June 23 (June 10, O.S.): Ukrainian Rada adopts the Pervyi Universal, proclaiming the independence of Ukraine

The Ukrainian Rada (Central Council) adopts the Pervyi Universal, proclaiming an independent Ukraine. Ukraine is the focal point of growing national tensions that threaten to tear apart the Russian Empire. Accusing the Provisional Government of opposing Ukrainian national independence, the Universal declares: Henceforth we will build our own life. In response to the Universal, the Kadets in Petrograd denounce the Ukrainian leaders as German agents, while the Mensheviks and SRs address them, in Trotskys words, with sentimental admonitions.

The movement for national independence is mostly based in western Ukraine, centered around Kiev, which had become part of the Russian Empire only in the mid-18th century. Moreover, while the western part of Ukraine was predominantly agrarian and had a greater percentage of ethnic Ukrainians, the eastern part was much more industrialized with many of the workers being ethnic Russians or Jewish. The historian Oliver H. Radkey noted that, as a result of these social and historical differences, the revolution assumed a predominantly national character to the west of the [Dnieper] river, and a predominantly social character to the east.... Kiev being the symbol of national contention with a truce of classes, and Kharkov that of class strife with a truce of nationalities.

The Ukrainian Rada, supported by many West Ukrainian labor organizations, adopts the Pervyi Universal after months in which the Provisional Government tried to ignore the national strivings in Ukraine and other regions of the Empire, refusing to grant the oppressed nationalities the right to secede and form an independent state. This line of the Provisional Government is basically supported both by the Menshevik and the Russian Socialist Revolutionaries who fear, above all, that a breakup of the Empire would mean the defeat of Russia in the war and threaten the very existence of the Russian state.

Warsaw, June 23: German occupation authorities shut down Warsaw University

After several weeks of student protests in German-occupied Warsaw, the German Governor Hans von Beseler shuts down Warsaw University and the Polytechnic Institute in the city. They will be reopened only in November 1917. The student strike is symptomatic of the growing crisis of the German occupation in the wake of the February Revolution in Russia.

Warsaw has been under German occupation since 1915. Before the war, Warsaw and what is now central Poland had formed part of the Russian Empire. The German occupation authorities reopen Warsaw University and the Polytechnic Institute with the aim of grooming a Polish elite that would be subservient to the German occupiers. The curriculum and staff at Warsaw University are controlled by the Germans. They must continuously balance between fostering Polish nationalism as a counterweight to Russia and the socialist movement, and preventing the nationalist tendencies from getting out of control and being turned against Germany.

During the war, the universities have become a central breeding ground for nationalist groups that seek to resurrect the Polish state. In 1916, a conflict emerges over the staffing of the theological institute that develops into a clash between students, faculty and the German occupation authorities. The issue is so contagious because the Catholic Church has traditionally maintained very close ties to the nationalist movement in Poland. In the wake of the February Revolution in Russia, the Polish national movement, putting its hope on national recognition from the Provisional Government, feels emboldened.

Warsaw students go on strike, starting May 3, the day the first Polish Constitution was passed in 1791. The student strike is dominated by nationalist forces, and numerous anti-Semitic incidents occur, with anti-Jewish slurs being directed against both faculty and students of Warsaw University. Many students support Jozef Pisudski, formerly a leader of the Polish Socialist Party (PPS), who has placed his military units, the so-called legions, at the disposal of Austria and Germany, in the hope that their governments would support the creation of an independent Polish state.

Despite numerous attempts, the German authorities are unable to put an end to the strike. At the end of May, the students shift their tactics. Some return to their classes but refuse to pay their fees and formally enroll. Eventually, Beseler decides to shut down the universities and orders that all students who are not currently enrolled should be expelled.

Duluth, Minnesota, June 23: Authorities crack down on IWW

The Industrial Workers of the World is increasingly targeted by the Wilson administration and state and local authorities. The IWW is a revolutionary trade union movement that has organized sections of the American working class rejected by the business unionism of the American Federation of Laborincluding iron and copper miners, textile and garment mill workers, recent immigrants, and African Americans.

In Duluth on June 23, the city imposes a law that allows the imprisonment of anyone who has no known means of work. Immediately the IWWs offices are raided and ten are arrested. Wobbly leader Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, who is staying at a nearby hotel, is also imprisoned.

Two days later, in Rockford, Illinois, 134 workers, many of them Wobblies, who are marching in an anti-draft demonstration, are arrested. The march is in response to the arrest on June 6 of several IWW members who refused to sign up for the draft.

The persecution of the IWW corresponds to American imperialisms strategy of securing what are sometimes referred to as its industrial forts. At the head of Lake Superior, Duluth is, in terms of tonnage, among the busiest port cities in the US. In addition to lumber and wheat, it is the linchpin of the American steel industry, handling the bulk of the iron ore of the Mesabi Range Iron, which had been shut down by an IWW-led strike in 1916. Rockford, Illinois is a major machinery-making city. Meanwhile, authorities in Arizona and Montana are preparing to target copper miners.

Petrograd, June 24 (June 11, O.S.): Bolshevik Petersburg Committee discusses cancelled demonstration

The cancellation of the planned June 10 demonstration on short notice has provoked dissatisfaction among layers of the working class and soldiers, and within the Bolshevik Party itself. The more fiery members, as Trotsky put it, tear up their membership cards out of anger and frustration.

Especially the members of the Petersburg Committee of the party, working as they do among the most militant and advanced sections of the working class in the country, are dissatisfied with the Central Committees (CC) decision. A special session is convened today to discuss the matter. Lenin speaks on behalf of the CC. Acknowledging that the discontent is on some level legitimate, he explains:

Even in simple warfare it happens that scheduled offensives must be canceled for strategic reasons and this is all the more likely to occur in class warfare ... It is necessary to determine the situation and be bold in decisions.

In Lenins view, the abortive June 10 demonstration marks a turning point in the revolution. Addressing Tseretelis historical and hysterical speech, Lenin explains:

In his speech Tsereteli showed himself to be a true counterrevolutionary. He announced that the Bolsheviks must be fought not with words, not with resolutions, but by depriving them of technical means ... The workers must soberly realize that it is no longer possible to talk about peaceful demonstrations. The situation is more serious than we expected. We were going ahead with a peaceful demonstration in order to put maximum pressure on the decisions of the Congress; this is our right, but we are accused of having organized a conspiracy to arrest the government.

Lenin urges the Petersburg Committee that maximum calm, caution, patience and organization are needed.

We should not give cause for attack ... let them attack us and the workers will understand that they are aiming at the very existence of the proletariat itself. But reality is on our side and it is still not certain whether their offensive will succeed: at the front there are troops, among whom the spirit of discontent is very strong; in the rear there is the high cost of living, economic chaos and so on. The Central Committee does not want to exert pressure on your decision. Your right, the right to protest against the actions of the Central Committee, is legitimate, and your decision must be a free one.

After a prolonged and heated discussion, the Petersburg Committee resolves to support the line of the Central Committee. (Quotes from Alexander Rabinowitch, Prelude to Revolution, pp. 86-7)

Russia, June 24 (June 11, O.S.): Military reports point to rebellious antiwar moods among the troops

In a report to the High Command from the (Russian) Western front, General Anton Denikin points out that the majority of his troops have a negative opinion of the impending offensive. The report prompts General Aleksei Brusilov to question the offensive: Given these moods, does it make sense to prepare this blow [against the enemy]?

Other army commanders similarly note that many soldiers reject the planned offensive and that Bolshevik propaganda has taken hold in many regiments and garrisons. Thus, the commander of the 38th army corps reports to the commander of the 10th army that soldiers from the 44th Siberian division are refusing to bolster their position. One of the soldiers reportedly declared, We have overthrown the previous government, and we will overthrow the one by Kerensky.

Saint-Nazaire, June 25: First US troops arrive in France as allies plan major offensive

Fourteen thousand US infantrymen under the command of General John Pershing arrive in France following Washingtons declaration of war on Germany on April 6. The soldiers of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF) are largely untrained, and Pershings first task is the establishment of training camps where the soldiers will conduct exercises over the next four months.

Prior to the outbreak of war, the US maintained a small army, with fewer personnel than 13 of the belligerents in the conflict. The Wilson administration is now conscripting a massive army and has enacted police-state legislation to suppress mass popular opposition within the US. Many of the soldiers conscripted into the US army are immigrants who had fled conscription in their home countries.

American troops are being rushed to France to relieve the British and French armies, which have suffered heavy casualties with little or no progress during the first months of 1917, including at the battle of Arras and during the Nivelle offensive. The French army has been in open revolt over the past month, and mutinies continue in the French ranks as the US forces arrive.

Pershing is determined that the US army fight independently. Reflecting US imperialisms growing ambitions, he rejects appeals from British and French commanders for US troops to be used as individual replacements in allied units that have suffered heavy casualties. He instead insists that the AEF be trained and sent to the front as a single unit.

British army commanders are meanwhile finalizing plans for their next major offensive. The day after the US troops arrive, General Hubert Gough confirms the 5th Armys plan for a July 31 attack on German defenses at Ypres, in what will become the Third Battle of Ypres. In a memo submitted on June 30, Gough predicts that the offensive could result in a breakout from the trenches and open warfare within 36 hours.

Also this week: Painter Felix Vallotton returns from the front

On June 23, painter Felix Vallotton (1865-1925) returns from the front. Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, the artist has been a French citizen since 1900.

When the war broke out, he volunteered for military service but was rejected due to his age. He created a series of woodcuts called Cest la Guerre [This is War], in which he shows the trenches, the barbarism of the conflict and the terrorized civilian population.

In 1917, he and roughly 100 other artists were invited by the Ministry of War to visit the front in Verdun from June 7-23. Some of them, like Vallotton, belong to the Nabis movement, founded in 1888/1889 by rebellious students at the Julian Academy in Paris.

Though he has little time, he paints highly stylized portraits of the war: desolate, ghostly landscapes with barren trees, flashes from exploding shells, Senegalese soldiers before their barracks in the snow and endless rows of crosses commemorating those killed in action. He works until the end of 1917 on his Visions of the Front. In October, his paintings are exhibited in the Musee du Luxembourg. In December 1917, he authors a text called Art and War. In it, he writes about the difficulty, even the impossibility, of portraying the war.

Also this week: Scientific American publishes predictions of the future of passenger air travel

In the June 23 edition of the Scientific American, the magazine reports on an interview with aircraft designer Anthony Fokker in Vossische Zeitung: Passenger traffic on flying machines will assume great importance after the war. Flying machines will have preference because they are the speediest means of travelling great distances. It is my belief that they will become the most successful rivals of American liners, being able to fly across the ocean within a day and a half or two days. Immediately after the war the first flight to America will be attempted. Five years after the war the service will have reached such a state of perfection that it will seem the most natural thing in the world.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A Florida Panhandle podiatrist accused of killing his estranged wife is using part of her life insurance settlement to pay for his criminal defense.

Dr. Adam Frasch has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the death of his wife, whose body was found at the bottom of their home's swimming pool in February 2014.

Court records show that a settlement on Samira Frasch's $1 million life insurance policy was solidified last month. The Tallahassee Democrat (http://goo.gl/NjWyfw ) reports that it grants $200,000 to her husband's criminal defense attorney, $25,000 to a civil attorney and $150,000 directly to 48-year-old Adam Frasch.

Shortly before her death, Samira Frasch had filed for divorce and been given temporary custody of the couple's daughters and their Tallahassee home.

Adam Frasch was released from jail Friday on $250,000 bail.
BAKER COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - Authorities are on the hunt for two men they say were involved in a Florida shooting that killed one young man and seriously injured another.

The Baker County Sheriff's Office says that they are looking for Antonio Lamar Lee, 31, and Leonard Mitchell Lee, 34, who are both wanted for their involvement in the homicide.

They said that the shooting happened Saturday on C.R. 139 in Margaretta, Fla. Now they are asking for the public's help in finding both men.

If you have any information, please contact the sheriffs office at 904-259-2861 or Captain Charlie Sharman at 904-524-3618.
TAYLOR COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - The U.S. Coast Guard says that its suspending its search for a diver who went missing into the Gulf of Mexico this weekend.

They said that they ceased the search Sunday night after 9 p.m.

The U.S. Coast Guard says the air and sea search covered an 800 square nautical miles area where 48-year-old William 'Glen' Peel from Shellpoint was last known to be. He was last seen in the Gulf of Mexico which is about 20 nautical miles south of Cabbage Creek in Taylor County.

Reef divers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recovered two dive bands but no sign of Peel.

He was last seen Saturday around noon when he went into the water and never came back up.

There's still no word yet on what caused the diver to go missing.
The Utah and Idaho Sugar plant in Union Gap, where the state Department of Transportation offices are now located. (YAKIMA VALLEY MUSEUM/Courtesy Photo)
Senior officials in the Trump administration have expressed their concern that Jared Kushner , Donald Trumps son-in-law and close advisor, may pull the American president excessively to the left when it comes to Israel and the Palestinians.

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Trump has three senior Jewish advisors on the Israeli issue: David Friedman, who was appointed US ambassador to Israel, special envoy Jason Greenblatt, and Kushner. After seeing Kushners activity in Saudi Arabia and in the Persian Gulf, administration officials reached the conclusion that he is the weak link as far as Israel is concerned. These officials arent questioning Kushners basic commitment to Israel, but they are saying that he believes Jerusalem could make more generous concessions, while the American pressure on the Arab world and on the Palestinians should be reduced at this stage.

The senior officials add that since leaving for Israel, Friedman is less capable of balancing Kushner in the presidents inner circle in Washington, although his status is still very strong.

US President Donald Trump with his son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner. The weak link as far as Israel is concerned (Photo: AP)

Meanwhile, Ambassador Friedman has been called to Washington for consultations in a bid to finally form the American policy in the region. Greenblatt is scheduled to arrive in the region this week to continue the talks between the parties. At some point later on, he is expected to present a document of principles which will include the opening terms for negotiations.

Officials who have spoken to Greenblatt are under the impression that the document will be quite general and will omit any political obstacles as far as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is concerned. In other words, it wont mention the words 1967 lines, refugees, Jerusalem, Jewish state, settlement construction freeze, etc.

What will be included in the document? Time-limited negotiations for the establishment of two states, an end to the incitement, security, demilitarization of the future Palestinian state, as well as partial normalization measures on the Arab states part while the talks go on. The last clause is an innovation. In the past, the Arabs condition for any normalization was Israeli-Palestinian peace. The Americans realized that in order to restore the Israeli publics trust in the process, they should present some initial signs of normalization, such as allowing Israeli planes to fly over Arab countries.

Israeli officials, meanwhile, expect Trump to officially announce the renewed negotiations in a three-way meeting with Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the White House around August or September. Senior government ministers say that Netanyahu is working in full coordination with Trump, and that the timing of the announcement may have a political aspect as well. It may correspond, for example, with the results of the Labor Party elections. Clearly, Netanyahu would rather see Isaac Herzog reelected as the partys leader, especially if he decides to renew his efforts to get the Zionist Union to join his coalition before the peace negotiations are restarted.

It has to do with the police investigations as well, says a senior government minister. If Netanyahu senses, for example, a police recommendation to prosecute him in October, dont be surprised if a major diplomatic boom captures the headlines in September. He will also put an exaggerated emphasis on the diplomatic pressure he is subject to. The Americans wont impose a document on us which we were not involved in formulating. Theres no coercion here. Theres no pressure. Its Bibi, and hes the one calling for the pressure.
WASHINGTON -- The US has long said that it would protect what it calls moderate Syrian opposition forces. But Sunday's shooting down of a Syrian regime jet is the first time it resorted to engaging in air-to-air combat to make good on that promise.

The US military says it has shot down a Syrian Air Force fighter jet that had bombed local forces aligned with the Americans in the fight against Islamic State militants. The action appears to mark a new escalation of the conflict.

A Pentagon spokesman says the US had not shot down a Syrian regime aircraft before Sunday's confrontation.

The US-led coalition headquarters in Iraq says a US F-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian government SU-22 after it dropped bombs near the US partner forces. The shootdown was near the Syrian town of Tabqa.
WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump is sending two top aides to Jerusalem and Ramallah this week to discuss potential next steps in his bid to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, a White House official said on Sunday.

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Going on the trip will be White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law and husband of his daughter Ivanka Trump, and Jason Greenblatt, a top national security aide. Greenblatt will arrive in the region on Monday and Kushner on Wednesday.

The talks follow Trump's discussions last month with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas . Behind-the-scenes conversations have been taking place since the Trump trip, the White House official said.

Jared Kushner (Photo: Reuters)

Kushner and Greenblatt will have meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah to hear directly from the Israeli and Palestinian leadership "about their priorities and potential next steps," the official said.

Jason Greenblatt meets with Prime Minister Netanyahu (Photo: Kobi Gideon, GPO)

"President Trump has made it clear that working towards achieving a lasting peace agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians is a top priority for him. He strongly believes that peace is possible," the official said.

Kushner and Greenblatt are working with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and White House national security adviser H.R. McMaster on the Middle East issue.

"It is important to remember that forging a historic peace agreement will take time and to the extent that there is progress, there are likely to be many visits by both Mr. Kushner and Mr. Greenblatt, sometimes together and sometimes separately, to the region and possibly many trips by Israeli and Palestinian negotiators to Washington DC or other locations as they pursue substantive talks," the official said.
Israel has reportedly been regularly supplying Syrian rebels near the border for years with money, food, fuel and medical equipment, according to the New York Times.

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According to the report published on Sunday, the goal of the covert involvement is to create a buffer zone between the two countries populated by friendly forces.

The report relies on interviews with five Syrian rebels who say the IDF maintains contact with opposition organizations and the aid it supplies includes payments to rebel commanders, which they in turn use to pay the salaries of fighters and purchase weapons and ammunition.

Photo: AFP

According to the report, an official familiar with the issue said Israel has established a secret military unit with a special budget to oversee aid to the Syrian rebels.

Israel has treated some 3,000 wounded Syrians since 2013, many of them combatants. Additionally, it supplied humanitarian aid such as food and clothing to Syrian civilians near the border, especially during winter.

"Israel stood by us in a heroic way; we wouldn't have survived without its aid," said Moatassem al-Golani, spokesman for the rebel organization Fursan al-Joulan (Knights of the Golan).

IDF activity on the Syrian border (Photo: Ido Erez)

According to the report, Israel's goal is to keep fighters allied with the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad and supported by Iran, such as Hezbollah, far away from the Israel-Syria border, which stretches over 70km.

A commander from the Fursan al-Joulan, known as Abu Suhaib, claimed his organization receives $5,000 a month from Israel. Fursan al-Joulan is not affiliated with the Free Syrian Armywhich is supported by the international coalitionand does not receive aid or weapons from the West.

According to Syrian rebels quoted in the report, Fursan al-Joulan is the main rebel group in contact with Israel and the IDF. Fighters say contact with the IDF was initiated in 2013 and Israel has been supplying the organization with money and other aid ever since.

Israeli support for rebels is likely to increase tension with the Assad regime, which has been accusing Israel of such support for some time. Assad has said in the past that Israel supports rebel groups and conducts airstrikes in Syrian territory to undermine the regime's control.

Syrian President Bashar Assad (Photo: Reuters)

Israel has denied such accusations, saying it is not involved in Syria's civil war.

The threat of a permanent presence of Iranian or Hezbollah forces on the Syrian side of the Golan could possibly drag the IDF into the civil war.

Israeli officials have not ruled out the possibility of such an escalation and have also cultivated other relationships with Arab states against their common enemyIran.
Prof. Mkhaimar Abusada of Gaza has found a way to deal with the power outages . He has obtained a strong battery which he attaches to a generator. When the battery is full, Abu Saadas life is in order.

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Think about it, he requests in a conversation from a cell phone that is being charged with that battery. During the month of Ramadan, we turn upside down. We fast during the day and eat during the night, and the refrigerator works only three hours a day. I have to feed a family of seven. Without electricity, the food will go bad, the children will suffer from intestinal diseases, and I dont trust our health system.

There are power failures at the hospitals and the clinics too, he adds.

A Gaza street during a power outage. This Ramadan, there is no available money. Nearly one million unemployed people cant find a way to make a living (Photo: AFP)

Abusada, head of the Department of Political Sciences at the Gaza branch of Al-Azhar University, belongs to the very thin echelon of spoiled Gazans: He has a good salary, a spacious house in the Rimal neighborhood along the coastline, a car (although the fuel is rationed) and an ability to send his five children to private school. He is a popular interviewee on Arab television channels and he knows quite a few Israelis, whom he meetswhen he is lucky enough to receive an exit permitat conferences abroad.

Abusada tells me about the old-new star shining in the alleys of Gaza. He is prepared to swear that Mohammed Dahlan is about to make a comeback and has already been tipped in the strip as the next leader. Only 10 days ago, when Dahlan sat down with the Hamas leadership in Cairo, he checked with them if they would let him return. Not now, Hamas leader Yahya Sanwar said to him, were not done.

Dahlan is in no rush. He is waiting to have it both ways: Hamas will suffer a blow and grow weaker, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will disappear. The road to Ramallah will begin by seizing power, at the right moment, in Gaza. According to Abusadas analysis, Dahlan has managed to create an impressive neighborhood lobby for himself: Israel is grooming him behind the scenes, Egypt is opening gates for him, and Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Washington wont stand in his way.

Just like people here predicted, hundreds protested near the border terminal between Israel and Gaza over the weekend. Eight were injured. Hamas worked to convince the media that the power outages, the water supply cuts and the sewage stench were a triangular plot: Abbas is at the vertex, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman are on the sides. When Netanyahu insists that its an internal Palestinian conflict, Hamas makes sure that no one will believe him.

Explain to me once and for all, I ask Abusada, why your people arent taking to the streets to get rid of the Hamas leadership. There was a bad experience, he says, in the Jabalia refugee camp in January. The power plant was damaged and the aid money from Qatar failed to arrive. Thousands went out to protest, and Hamas responded with arrests and serious torture in the interrogations. Hamas doesnt care what human rights organizations say about it. It just wants to deter and to curb the Arab spring in the strip, thats all.

Abusada agrees with the coordinator of the governments activities in the territories, that there is no shortage of food products in Gaza. You can get anything youre looking for at the supermarkets, he testifies. Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy products. The problem is that were falling between the Ramallah armchair and the Gaza stool: Abbas issued an order to cut government workers salaries, and some 100,000 families fell under the poverty line. Your heart explodes when you pass by the packed food stands, and the head of the household stands there and has to decide whether to buy chees and bread or watermelon. This Ramadan, there is no available money. Nearly one million unemployed people cant find a way to make a living.

The bad news, according to Abusada, may blow up in everyones face in two months time. The heat, the humidity from the sea, the increasing pressure on Hamas. I dont see them giving up, he says. They will give us something much more dangerous.
AKBUL -- An Afghan official says a district chief has been shot and killed in western Nimroz province by gunmen riding on a motorcycle.

Ahmad Arab, spokesman for the provincial governor, says Aqa Mohammad Fazeli was on his way to work when he suddenly came under attack by two gunmen on Monday morning. The killing took place in Zaranj, the provincial capital.

Arab added that Fazeli was the chief in remote Chakhansor district in Nimroz and also a tribal leader in the province.
DOHA -- Turkish troops have arrived in Qatar for long-planned joint military exercises, al Jazeera reported on Monday, a deployment made possible by legislation fast-tracked by Turkey following a diplomatic rift between Doha and four other Arab states.

The channel posted a video on its website of a column of armoured personnel carriers moving through streets. It said the troops had arrived on Sunday.

Turkey's parliament on June 7 fast-tracked legislation to allow troops to be deployed to a military base in Qatar, two days after Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cut ties with Doha in the worst diplomatic crisis in the region in years.

Turkey has a military base in Qatar that currently houses about 90 Turkish soldiers.
The Iranian strike in Syria on Sunday night must set off alarm bells not only in Israel, but also in the Arab Gulf states and even in the United States. The missile attack marks an escalation in Iranian involvement in Syria, and if the missiles did hit their targets600 kilometers awaythis essentially indicates Iran has other options for dealing with Israel, apart from using Hezbollah.

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Iran tried to accomplish several goals with this missile attack. The main goal was to improve the ayatollah regimes image, after the blow it suffered when ISIS terrorists carried out attacks against Iranian symbols in Tehran, killing 17 Iranian citizens and wounding more than 50.

The Tehran attacks undermined the Iranian citizens sense of security and eroded the indestructible image of the ayatollah regime and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The Iranian response is therefore complex, continuous and is carried out on two main levels.

Iranian missile attack on ISIS targets in Syria

In one, the regime has been trying to figure out who sent the perpetrators, Sunni Arab Iranian citizens who acted openly on behalf of the Islamic State. The perpetrators were from the Baluchestan province in eastern Iran and from the Ahvaz province in the west. The Revolutionary Guards and other Iranian security organizations raided cities and villages in those provinces and meted out collective punishment, including death, on Iranians of Arab descent who were not necessarily involved in the Tehran attacks.

Footage of the attack

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The second level entailed dealing ISIS itself a blow. The Iranian surface-to-surface missile strike was aimed at killing ISIS fighters in their strongholds and showing them they cannot escape Irans long arm. This blow to ISIS facilities in the Syrian cities of Deir ez-Zor and Palmyra helps the Syrian regime and the Russians as well.

Together, they are trying to reconquer Palmyra, Deir ez-Zor and the surrounding areas for the umpteenth time. These two cities and the military facilities around them have changed hands several times, and there is currently a combined Russian-Syrian offensive taking place for the two cities.

The terror attack at the mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini

In addition, demonstrating the ability to accurately fire missiles with a range of 600 to 700 kilometers is an Iranian show of force, aimed at gaining the prestige and deterrence of a military, regional and maybe even world power. Up until now, the US and Russia have been the only countries to fire accurate missiles at such distances in the Middle East.

The Iranians said they had fired six missiles with a range of up to 700 kilometers, and referred to the strike as successful yet limited. We have no information yet about whether the missiles Iran used were cruise missiles or ballistic missiles. Ballistic missiles not only have a large warhead with hundreds of kilograms of explosives, but also navigation mechanisms that allow a very accurate hit.

We also don't know the missiles level of accuracy. Iran likely fired different types of both cruise missiles and ballistic missiles to use this opportunity to test the accuracy and reliability of its long-range weapons. As long as Iran doesn't know the results of this test, it wont disclose the type of the missiles it used and whether the hits were accurate and fatal.

All this information should raise a lot of concern and interest in Israel, as anyone who is capable of hitting targets in eastern and northeastern Syria from Kermanshah in western Iran and from Kurdistan in the northwest is capable of using the same missiles to hit the Golan Heights in Israel and perhaps other places as well.

ISIS attack on the Iranian parliament building (Photo: EPA)

This wasnt the Iranians final word, and they arent hiding the fact they have Shahab-3 missiles with a range of up to 1,400 kilometers. There are also missiles with a larger range of 2,000 kilometers and more, but those missiles arent accurate.

Its also a known fact the Iranians have self-made cruise missiles, but before now they've hid their performance. The Iranian missile attack on ISIS targets in eastern Syria is, therefore, an issue which Israel should deal with on the diplomatic level as well, as part of Jerusalems battle together with the Trump administration to stop the Iranian missile program.

For the same reason, this strike must also serve as a warning to the Arab states in the Persian Gulf, which are part of the pro-American moderate Sunni camp. These countries oil fields and military facilities are located just 400 kilometers away from Iranian territory and are therefore more vulnerable. The US should also be worried, as its airbases, naval bases and command in Qatar and Bahrain are within the Iranian missiles range.
The annual "Al Quds" march was held in London on Sunday, with hundreds of supporters waving Hezbollah flags as they were making their way to London's city center.

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A heavy police presence escorted demonstrators, who accused Israel of genocide, crimes against humanity and held signs with messages such as "We are all Hizbullah (sic), Boycott Israel" and "Free Palestine."

Al Quds march in London

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Among participants in the protest were members of the anti-Zionist Jewish sect Neturei Karta, who marched alongside demonstrators chanting, "Enough of the rabbis," "Enough with Zionists" and "Enough with the synagogues!"

Photo: World Jewish Congress

In recent weeks, more than 20,000 people signed a petition calling for the march to be banned, but London Mayor Sadiq Khan claimed he had no authority to make that decision. While Hezbollah's military arm has been outlawed in Britain, the terrorist organization's political arm is allowed to operate publically.

Child attending the march wrapped in a Hezbollah flag (Photo: World Jewish Congress)

This year, hundreds of pro-Israel demonstrators organized a counter-protest, where President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, Jonathan Arkush, called on anti-Israel protestors to meet next year in Tehran and not London.

World Jewish Congress representative Vladimir Bermant said, "Hezbollah's path is the path of violence. Unfortunately, we people in London are already familiar with the flags of terrorism and calls for 'death to Israel' and 'death to Americans.'

Photo: World Jewish Congress

"Those are the same people who were the terrorists on London Bridge, in Manchester or in any other place. This is why the 'Al Quds' march needs to be banned. To bring children to a march like this creates a problem with radicalization that will be very difficult to solve in the future."
MAIDUGURI -- Five female suicide bombers killed 12 people and wounded 11 in northeast Nigeria's Borno state, police said on Monday.

Borno state police spokesman Victor Isuku said the attacks took place on Sunday at around 08:30 p.m. (1930 GMT) in Kofa community, around 8 km (5 miles) from the state capital Maiduguri.
GAZA CITY -- Gaza's Hamas rulers say that Israel has begun to cut back already limited electricity supplies -- a step that is expected to worsen the power crunch plaguing the seaside strip.

The decision comes at the request of the rival Palestinian government in the West Bank. President Mahmoud Abbas has told Israel he would reduce payments for Gaza's power.
Anyone visiting the city of Kassel in Germany will be privy to an unusual sitea structure similar to the Parthenon in Athens, only instead of stone, composed almost entirely of books. Over 100,000 of them.

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"Parthenon of Books," as the work is known, was built by Argentinean artist Marta Minujin. The books used to construct the piece are copies of those works the Nazi regime either declared verboten or burned.

The Pathenon of Books (Photo: Getty Images)

Just as the structure itself is fascinating, so too is its location; it is the same spot where the Nazis burned books written by Jews and Marxists in May 1933.

Photo: Getty Images

The exhibition, which opened last week as part of the "Documenta" festival in the city, will stand for 100 days and is intended to be an act of protest against censorship, the persecution of writers, the prohibition of distributing texts for political reasons, discrimination, violence and intolerance.
Health Minister Yaakov Litzman said at a meeting of a joint faction of Shas and United Torah Judaism about the desecration of Shabbat by infrastructure work, that "the prime minister must intervene to stop it. If this continues, it is a violation of the coalition agreement and we are not sure we can continue to be part of it."

Interior Minister Aryeh Deri added "our heart has been torn and the State of Israel has turned the Sabbath into a day of maintenance and infrastructure repair."
Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman said during a meeting of his Yisrael Beiteinu party that some of the Knesset members and ministers had attacked IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gadi Eizenkot and Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Major General Yoav Mordechai, and said that "this action must stop."

Lieberman also referred to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement regarding Qalqiliya, saying that "all this storm has come from pressures, especially all sorts of 'voice contractors' that created this noise."
In an interview with the Al-Miyadin network, the advisor to the Iranian foreign minister, Sheikh Hussein al-Islam, said that "Israel is the main enemy and should be very cautious. I think it understood the messages of the missiles well. "

He also added that "the presence of Americans in the region is illegal, the US should leave Syria sooner or later."
The European Union will consider sending a new security mission to help stabilise Iraq after the expected recapture of Mosul from Islamic State, EU foreign ministers said on Monday.

EU foreign ministers held a first discussion in Luxembourg and agreed to consider the deployment of an EU Security Sector Reform Advice and Assist Team, which could train Iraq security officials, according to a statement released after the meeting.

"I hope this can be put in place rapidly enough, hopefully in the coming months, so we can provide all our advice and assistance to the Iraqi authorities," EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini told a news conference.

Iraq has formally requested EU help, diplomats said.

Iraqi forces are slowly advancing in Islamic State's last stronghold in the Old City of Mosul. A senior commander of the US-backed Iraqi forces said the assault was the final stage of the ninth-month battle for Mosul.

The EU mission would not take part in the actual combat but would train Iraqi forces, which would help to maintain order after Islamic State is driven out. US officials are concerned tribal groups may fight for control as the militants flee.
Dozens of demonstrators were injured over the weekend in Kiev, Ukraine in violent protests against the decision of the city council to replace the name a main street to that of an officer who was one of organizers of an anti-Polish ethnic cleansing.

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The street was named after General Nikolai Vatutin, who liberated Kiev from the Nazis, but now it was decided that it would be named after Roman Shukhevych, an SS officer responsible for the massacre of tens of thousands of Jews.

Protest in Kiev against the renaming

In October 2009, the Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko even gave Shukhevych the title of hero of Ukraine, even though he took part in an ethnic cleansing.

The decision was passed by the city council on June 1 with a majority of 69 out of 120.

The mayor of Kiev, Vitali Klitschko, did not support the decision but did not object to it either, even though his Jewish grandmother was one of those whom General Vatutin had liberated from the Nazis.

In the past two weeks, Klitschko has been under heavy pressure to veto the decision and not to change the name of the street, but so far he has refused to intervene. The decision is due to take effect in the coming days.

This move drew the ire of many of Kiev's citizens.

On social networks, it won the name "National Day of Shame." A few days ago, hundreds of people demonstrated in front of the statue of General Vatutin in the center of Kiev, standing above his grave, calling for the name of the street not to be changed. Most of the demonstrators were World War II veterans who shouted "shame."

SS officer Roman Shukhevych

On Saturday, violent demonstrations took place in Ukraine, in which 20 people were injured. Police arrested several rioters.

Edward Dolinsky, one of the leaders of the Jewish community in Ukraine, said: "Is it possible to measure the depth of a moral decline? It is not easy when there are cases where the decline is so deep that it cannot be measured.

A decision by the Kiev city council to change the name of the street in the name of General Vatutin to the name of a Nazi officer, whose hands are stained with the blood of tens of thousands of Ukrainians, Jews and Polesis precisely a case of a moral decline, cynicism and contempt for humanity. This is a day of national shame. "

The Jewish community filed a petition with the Kiev Regional Court, which issued an interim injunction prohibiting the mayor from signing the order to change the name of the street until a final decision on the matter was made.

Alex Tantzer, a social activist among immigrants from the former Soviet Union, said: "For years, murderers of Jews have been titled as heroes. The Prime Minister of Ukraine is Jewish and he is silent. Mayor Klitschko, whose grandmother is Jewish, did not object, and even Israel is silent.

"I expect Israel to protest in the strongest possible terms against this decision.

"There is a limit to cynicism and moral decline. If Ukraine is looking for heroes, it should not find them among Nazi collaborators. The Ukrainian people are entitled to other heroes."

(Translated & edited by Lior Mor)
An advisor to Iran's foreign minister said Monday the Islamic republic's missiles attack against ISIS in Syria also served as a message to Israel, adding "I think (Israel) understood the message... it now has to worry" about its actions.

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In an interview with the Al-Miyadin network, Sheikh Hussein al-Islam said the missile strike showed the strength of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, adding Tehran "will not allow terrorism to determine the future of the region." Showing his disdain for any outside interference, al-Islam determined "the presence of Americans in the region is illegal; the US should leave Syria sooner or later."

The Iranian missile launch

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"We are targeting terrorists only, and the countries that support them must know what it means when we use these missiles," he added, hinting at Israel.

"The Saudis and Americans are the main recipients of this message," said General Ramzan Sharif of the Revolutionary Guards. "Several reactionary countries in the region, especially Saudi Arabia, have announced they are trying to bring insecurity to Iran."

The Iranian missile launch (Photo: AP)

Al-Islam also claimed that the missiles launched were "100 percent accurate."

Israeli sources contradicted this statement, claiming that the Iranians launched 4-5 missiles from two different locations into two target groups in Deir ez-Zor and in Palmyra but only a missile or two of them actually hit their target.

'Do not threaten Israel'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Al-Islam's statements during a Likud party meeting. "The army and the security forces are continuously monitoring Iran's activity in the region," he said. "This activity is also about Iranian attempts to settle in Syria and, of course, transfer advanced weaponry to the Lebanese Hezbollah."

"I have a message to Iran: Do not threaten Israel," added Netanyahu.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Photo: Yonatan Zindel/Flash 90)

For the first time in thirty years, since the war with Iraq from 1980 to 1988, Iran launched Sunday missiles against a foreign country.

Six missiles were fired from western Iran to eastern Syria, targeting the "terrorist bases" in Deir ez-Zor.

The missile strike was retaliation for the combined attack perpetrated on June 7 in Tehran, in which two security personnel, ten government employees and five civilians were killed, and more than 50 people were injured. Authorities reported that the attackers were Iranian citizens.

Several dozen suspects have been arrested by Iranian authorities since the attack, with Tasnim quoting Iranian Intelligence Minister Mahmoud Alavi as saying that Iranian security forces had liquidated the terrorist planner in the parliament and in the tomb of Ayatollah Khomeini.

(Translated & edited by Lior Mor)
Iran on Monday denied Saudi Arabia's allegations that it captured three Revolutionary Guards on board an explosive vessel headed for an oil field in the Gulf.

"The identity of the three individuals is known, they are from Bushire (port in southern Iran) and were fishing when they were arrested by the Saudi coast guards," An Iranian official stated.
The top US military officer said Monday that Washington and Moscow are in delicate discussions to tamp down tensions arising from the US shootdown of a Syrian fighter jet, which the Russians called a violation of a US-Russian understanding on avoiding air incidents.

In an appearance at the National Press Club, Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, suggested that broader US and Russian interests will enable to the two sides to avoid direct hostilities in Syria.

"The worst thing any of us could do right now is address this with hyperbole," Dunford said.
The Knesset's Ethics Committee on Monday removed MK Oren Hazan (Likud) from the Knesset plenum and Knesset committees for a week after he verbally attacked MK Michal Rozin (Meretz) during a live broadcast at a Breaking the Silence conference in Kiryat Ono.

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Rozin filed the complaint for "violent and threatening behavior," and told how Hazan "clung to me violently while shouting obscenities in my ears." She said that, among other things, he called her "cowardly," a "brat" and more.

MKs Michal Rozin (L) and Oren Hazan (Photo: Yoav Dudkevitch, Alex Kolomoisky)

The committee determined that watching the broadcast on Channel 20 shows that Hazan "stood next to MK Rozin in order to ruin the interview with her, to destroy her calm and concentration, and to not allow her to say anything, and not to confront her with a legitimate confrontation over her positions as he claimed."

According to the committee, Hazan violated the rule of ethics that states that "a Knesset member will preserve the dignity of the Knesset and the dignity of its members." It noted that "this is not the first or even the second time that the Ethics Committee has deliberated complaints about MK Hazan's conduct toward his colleagues, and in some cases he has even been reprimanded."

The committee said that "the freedom of expression of Knesset members is not intended to trample the freedom of speech of their colleagues, while hurling expletives of the kind voiced by MK Hazan."

Hazan said in response: "I am sorry that the Knesset has become a tool of the extreme left Breaking the Silence.

MK Oren Hazan (Gil Yohanan)

"To keep me away because I came out against this treacherous organization, Breaking the Silenceor more accurately 'Breaking the IDF'and its representatives is a great achievement for those who hate Israel and for the terrorists.

"Personally, I am proud to have cried out the soldiers' cry and kept the dignity of IDF soldiers and the State of Israel.

"I call on the prime minister to put an end to the deviation to the left.

"When MK Haneen Zoabi (Joint Listed) and Breaking the Silence receive medals and right-wing Knesset members are removed because of their protection of the security interests of the State of Israel, the line has been crossed and the time has come to put an end to it," said Hazan.

(Translated & edited by Lior Mor)
Four survivors have told how some 126 fellow migrants drowned off Libya last week when their flimsy rubber dinghy foundered after smugglers removed the engine and fled, the UN migration agency said Monday.

Flavio Di Giacomo of the International Organization for Migration said the survivors were interviewed in Sicily after an Italian coast guard ship brought them to Palermo's port Monday.

The two Sudanese and two Nigerian survivors told authorities that a few hours after the migrant smugglers' dinghy set off from Libyan shores Thursday night, the crew removed the engine and left in another boat. The migrant boat quickly foundered. The survivors said some 130 people, most of them Sudanese, had been aboard.

A Libyan fishing vessel, passing by chance, rescued the four and put them on another dinghy, also crowded with smuggled migrants, that was nearby. That boat itself was found by rescuers, and all the passengers were eventually transferred to the coast guard vessel.
Transcript:

Kevin: Im pleased to welcome to the show a man who Ive followed for many, many years, who speaks all around Australia as somewhat of an authority on whats happening with the property market, John Lindeman from 7steps2success.com.au. Well tell you more about that site a little bit later.

John, welcome to the show. Thank you very much for your time.

John: Its a pleasure, Kevin, and welcome, everybody.

Kevin: John, I want to talk to you specifically about whats happening with regional markets around Australia compared to the capital city markets. We know that Sydney and Melbourne now are largely becoming very unaffordable and very hard to buy in.

Is that actually promoting some opportunities more so in some of those regional areas, John?

John: It is. I think regional markets are very much underrated. In Australia, we have some huge regional markets, like the Gold Coast, which has over 600,000 people. The Sunshine Coast nearly 300,000, and Newcastle has about 430,000 people.

These are huge markets and they do have a lot of potential, but the problem with them is that because of the general population drift that weve seen to capital cities  as migrants come to Australia, they like to live in the big capital cities  that you have to have a specific reason why you want to invest in a regional area, and that is that theres going to be higher growth than you would otherwise expect because in general, capital cities outperform regional areas, so you have to find these sorts of areas where demand is rising.

In the case of Sydney and Melbourne, as you said, theyve become very unaffordable. The first thing Ive noticed is that a lot of buyers are being pushed into regional markets outside Sydney and Melbourne. Its what we call a ripple effect.

And thats already taken place in Sydney. Prices have moved up in Wollongong, the Central Coast, and Newcastle, and theyre starting to go up further north and south of Sydney. The same thing in Melbourne, where you find that growth is now occurring in the Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, and its extending into Ballarat and Bendigo.

Kevin: I guess one of the dangers of looking at some of these regional markets is that if you go into a market that is really dominated by one or two industries, it becomes quite difficult to understand where the future lies for some of those regional areas, John.

John: These are all very large metropolitan areas. Theyre not capital cities, but nevertheless they are bigger than centers and there are a lot of different dynamics occurring in these markets. The main thing, of course, is the fact that theyre more affordable and so people  and investors as well  tend to move into these markets because theyre cheaper.

Kevin: What are some of the triggers you look for if you are looking around at one of the regional markets to decide where you should be investing? What do you look for, John?

John: I look for something thats changing, in other words, thats going to change the nature of demand in the market. That can usually be in, say, mining towns and ports where you have a boom in construction. It might be a port expansion or a new mine opening, but it can also be things like infrastructure such as roads and railways. Really, what were seeing at the moment is some major infrastructure projects that are occurring and going to occur around Australia, and I think they will have massive effects on housing markets where theyre located.

Kevin: What do you see as some of the dangers, John? What should you be aware of?

John: I think the danger with these infrastructure development projects, especially the transport ones, is that they may not actually occur. I think a good example of that is the Inland Rail Project, which was mentioned in the recent Budget.

This has been on the drawing boards for about 20 years, but now the government has brought forward plans for its construction  a high-performance freight rail corridor between Melbourne and Brisbane, which will also connect South East Queensland by rail with Adelaide and Perth.

This is going to have massive flow-on benefits for local industries and regional communities. Itll create thousands of jobs, and its going to dramatically affect housing markets along the route. The risk is, of course, that it hasnt yet got underway and governments have a way of delaying or changing these projects after the announcements are made.

If it goes ahead as planned, you could probably see massive increases in rent demand for towns along the way, the major towns such as Parkes, Narrabri, and Maury, near Brisbane. Oakey is another center where theres going to be massive work done. And that will lead to median house price rises as well. These are all very affordable areas right now, but you have to be sure that the construction is actually going to go ahead as planned.

Kevin: For anyone looking to invest in these regional markets, if they were to come to you for advice, John, would you suggest that they need to travel to these areas, and if so, at what stage in their discovery should they be going there  in the very early stages or once theyve done their sums?

John: I think in the construction stage, its very much looking at rental demand  if thats rising  like in the towns Ive just mentioned. If you can see that the number of rental vacancies has fallen dramatically because of construction work thats being undertaken, then thats the first sign that growth is likely to occur.

But in other areas and in other projects  and another good example is the Gold Coast Light Rail; thats going to profoundly affect housing markets all the way down through the Gold Coast to the New South Wales border  the best way to ascertain the likely effects of that is to go and have a look.

If you live in Brisbane, take a trip down, look at the construction, how its proceeding, talk to real estate agents about the likely demand its having on housing, especially tourism and retiree markets. Doing a bit of on-the-ground research, I think, is well worthwhile in these sorts of projects.

Kevin: John, I know that youre always looking around and always looking at whats happening with the markets. If I were to ask you to give me your top three regional markets around Australia, would you be able to do that?

John: I think the main area in Australia that has huge growth potential is northern New South Wales, and thats largely because of highway duplication, which is only three years away from completion. Thats having a profound effect already on rent demand in the major towns along the way, such as Ballina, Lismore, Grafton, and Coffs Harbour.

These towns  according to us in our research  are going to see massive price rises occur once that highway is completed. I think theyre the best areas in the whole of Australia that you can look for for investment over the next few years.

Kevin: Always good talking to you, John.

John Lindermans website again is 7steps2success.com.au. Youll find out where John is speaking. You can also communicate directly with him and get a lot of great tips from that site as well.

John, thank you very much for your time.

John: Thank you, Kevin. Its been a pleasure, and I wish everyone the best of luck with their investment journey.
Zabka, Warszawa, 166 m2

Lokal znajduje sie w budynku apartamentowym Unimax Development w inwestycji Viva Vitolin, przy ul. Grochowskiej 87 w Warszawie. Bedzie dostepny w 4Q 2023 roku (podpisanie umow przeniesienia wasnosci).
Washington: A Muslim girl was found dead a day after she was assaulted near a mosque in the US state of Virginia and a suspect has been arrested, police said.

The victim was identified as 17-year-old Nabra Hassanen of Reston and her body was found in a pond on Sunday, The Washington Post reported.

Fairfax County police identified the suspect as 22-year-old Darwin Martinez Torres and charged him with murder.

According to accounts from police and an All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) official, a group of four or five teenagers including Nabra had visited a restaurant to have a late-night meal after prayers during the holy month of Ramadan.

At about 4 a.m., the group was confronted by Torres as they walked on a street.

They ran into a mosque, but one of them, Nabra, was left behind and was later reported as missing, said Deputy Aleksandra Kowalski, a spokeswoman for the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office.

The police conducted an hour-long search around Dranesville Road and Woodson Drive in Herndon and remains thought to be the girl's were found about 3 p.m. on Sunday in a pond in Sterling.

During the search, police said they stopped a car being driven in a suspicious manner in the area, and took the driver Torres into custody.

The girl's mother said detectives told her that Nabra was struck with a metal bat.

"I can't think of a worse instance to occur than the loss of a 17-year-old on Father's Day, as the father of a 17-year-old myself," Loudoun County Sheriff Michael L. Chapman said.

The reason for the attack was still not known, but hate crime was one of the options being investigated, reports said.

"We are devastated and heartbroken as our community undergoes and processes this traumatic event," Rizwan Jaka, chairman of ADAMS, said in a statement.
Seoul: South Korea's new Foreign Minister has said that North Korea should be denuclearised by both sanctions and dialogue while any of its provocations should be dealt with sternly.

Kang Kyung-wha, the country`s first female Foreign Minister, made the comments on Monday in her inaugural address here, reports Xinhua news agency.

South Korea should actively address North Korea`s nuclear and missile issues that have become increasingly urgent and advancing as they are posing threats on security.

At the same time, Kang stressed that South Korea should seek to wisely resolve current issues with China to develop the bilateral relations.

As regards to ties with Japan, Kang said her country should seek a future-oriented, mature cooperative partnership while encouraging its neighbour to squarely face the history.

Kang vowed to increase communications with people in establishing diplomatic policies and to make the policies known to people more exactly.
Raipur: At least four Naxal fighters, one of whom carrying a bounty of Rs 5 lakh on his head, were killed on Monday in an encounter in Chhattisgarh's Koyalibera area, officials said.

The anti-insurgency operation was carried out by a joint team of BSF and the Special Task Force of Chhattisgarh Police.

Weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain Naxals.

According to ANI, the encounter took place in Kanker's Koyalibera area.

The bodies of three Naxals are yet to be recovered.

The news comes after 13 Maoists were arrested from three separate places in Chhattisgarh's insurgency-hit Sukma district earlier in the day.

Eleven of those held were allegedly involved in the Burkapal attack on CRPF personnel in April this year, PTI reported.

"While 11 cadres were apprehended from Jagargunda police station area, one each was held from Tongpal and Gadiras police station limits," Deputy Inspector General of Police (Dantewada range) Sundarraj P told PTI.

Security forces have been continuously undertaking search operations in Chintalnar, Chintagufa and Jagargunda areas of the district, around 400 kms away from here, following the Burkapal incident, he said.
Paris: Lockheed Martin signed an agreement with India`s Tata Advanced Systems on Monday to produce F-16 fighter planes in India, pressing ahead with a plan to shift its Fort Worth, Texas plant to win billions of dollars worth of order from the Indian military.

India`s air force needs hundreds of aircraft to replace its Soviet-era fleet, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s government has said foreign suppliers would have to make the planes in India with a local partner to help build a domestic industrial base and cut outright imports.

But Modi`s Make-in-India drive runs the risk of conflicting with U.S. President Donald Trump`s America First campaign under which he has been pressing for companies to invest in the United States and create jobs instead of setting up factories abroad.

In announcing their agreement at the Paris Airshow, Lockheed and Tata said moving the production base to India would still retain jobs in the United States.

"F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world," a joint statement by the firms said.

Sweden`s Saab is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India. It has not yet announced a local partner for the plane which it has pitched as a modern alternative to the F-16s.

The announcement comes days before Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with Trump, scheduled for June. 26. India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, the joint statement said. Some 3,200 of these planes are being flown by 26 countries and the model that is being offered to India will be Block 70, the most modern of all the F-16s.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the worlds largest defense contractor and Indias premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the worlds most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

Tata is already building airframe components for the C-130 military transport aircraft.

India has not opened formal bidding for the jet order, which is expected to be anything from 100 planes to 250.
New Delhi: Supreme Court has granted 10 more working days to Sahara chief Subrata Roy to deposit Rs 709.82 crore with the Sahara-SEBI refund account.

The apex court extended its interim order granting bail to the Sahara chief till July 5, the next date of hearing.

A bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra and Ranjan Gogoi considered the submissions of senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Roy, that Rs 790.18 have been already been deposited with the SEBI-Sahara account and 10 more working days be granted for submission of the remainder.

Roy had earlier deposited two cheques of Rs 1,500 crore and Rs 552.22 crore to be paid to the Securities and Exchange Board of India on June 15 and July 15 respectively.

Irked over non-submission of money, the Supreme Court had on April 17 decided to sell property worth Rs 34,000 crore belonging to the Sahara group in Maharashtra's Aamby Valley and had sought Roy's presence before it.

The court had on November 28 last year asked Roy to deposit Rs 600 crore more by February 6 in the refund account to remain out of jail and warned that failure to do so would result in his return to prison.

It had on May 6, 2016 granted Roy four-week parole to attend his mother's funeral. His parole has been extended by the court ever since. Roy was sent to Tihar jail on March 4, 2014.

Besides Roy, two other directors, Ravi Shankar Dubey and Ashok Roy Choudhary, were also arrested for the failure of two group companies, Sahara India Real Estate Corporation (SIRECL) and Sahara Housing Investment Corp Ltd (SHICL), to comply with the court's August 31, 2012 order to return Rs 24,000 crore to their investors. Director Vandana Bhargava was not taken into custody.

With PTI Inputs
New Delhi: A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team on Monday questioned Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain's wife in connection with allegations of money laundering.

Reacting to it, the Delhi government accused the central government of using the "caged parrot" CBI to "silence dissenters".

A CBI official said the team sought clarifications from her. The CBI in April launched a probe against Jain.

In April, the agency registered a preliminary inquiry against Jain based on the evidences it had collected against him in connection with `laundering` Rs 4.63 crore in 2015-16. The CBI had questioned Jain on June 1 and 2.

Jain was accused of being involved in money laundering through some Kolkata-based companies. He was also accused of laundering Rs 11.78 crore in 2010-12 through these companies and a Delhi-based company.

The matter was referred to the CBI by the Income Tax Department, which in September 2016 summoned Jain for his alleged links with the firms that were under scanner for alleged hawala or proxy transactions. Jain has denied the charges against him.

AAP leader Saurabh Bhardawaj, addressing a press conference, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using the CBI and Income Tax Department for fabricating evidence against the Minister.

According to the BJP-led central government, Jain has used two men -- Sanjay and Suresh -- for sending hawala money to businessmen in Kolkata. Bharadwaj, however, said that persons named Sanjay and Suresh did not exist.

The AAP leader claimed that the BJP has presented two non-existing persons and despite Jain`s request, the probe agency has failed to present them before the Minister.

Elaborating on allegation, Bharadwaj said that the BJP has claimed that a landline number was used to make phone calls to businessmen in Kolkata but that number is out of service since 2014. He also said that landline number did not have STD facility.

One of the witnesses, Babloo Pathak has denied any relation with Jain after he was brought face-to-face with the Minister.

Bharadwaj challenged the probe agency to confront three more witnesses, examined by the CBI, with Jain so as to bring out the truth in the case. He said the probe agency has turned down the request to confront the witnesses with Jain.

"Another day, another raid! CBI now raids Minister Jain`s residence. Centre trying to silence dissenters via caged parrot," Delhi government spokesperson Arunoday Prakash tweeted.

"BJP model: You make Mohalla Clinics, save money in projects, (provide) free medicines, tests and surgeries... We (the BJP) will keep troubling you with CBI, IT (Income Tax Department), ED (Enforcement Directorate)," he added.

Last week, a CBI team visited Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia`s residence regarding alleged irregularities in a `Talk to AK` social media campaign, prompting strong AAP reactions against the "CBI raid".

The CBI denied there was any raid or search at Sisodia`s residence and said a team of officers went there to record his statement.
New Delhi: A CBI team on Monday visited Delhi Minister Satyendar Jain's residence to seek clarifications from his wife in money laundering case.

It was alleged that Jain was involved in money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore while being a public servant during 2015-16 through Prayas Info Solutions Private Limited, Akinchan Developers Private Limited and Managalyatan Projects Private Limited, the CBI sources said.

Jain had dismissed the allegations after the Enforcement Directorate last month attached properties linked to him in the matter.
New Delhi: It's a great feeling when amidst news of animal species becoming endangered or extinct, one gets to hear about a new discovery.

It isn't everyday when one comes across a rare find at that. However, this latest one has the social media platforms in a tizzy due to its appearance.

The creature is a peanut worm, that was discovered by a team of scientists from Museums Victoria in Australia during their recent month-long expedition into the oceanic abyss off the Australian coast.

Although the team found a variety of underwater organisms  including a faceless fish, a sea pig, a zombie worm, and a flesh-eating crustacean  the peanut worm caught everyone's eye.

Why? The organism has an uncanny resemblance to the male reproductive organ. IBTimes UK, which first reported on the curious sea creature, shared a photo of the peanut worm from the expedition, quickly capturing the publics attention. Check out the image below:

Peculiar group of sea creatures found in deep Australian abyss https://t.co/5WtQziRTCO pic.twitter.com/l66QwStKpA  IBTimes UK (@IBTimesUK) June 17, 2017

As per the report, the name peanut worm came from the fact that when threatened, these marine animals contract their long heads inwards into a shape like that of a peanut kernel.

Peanut worms or sipunculid worms are actually a group of bilaterally symmetrical, unsegmented worms that consists of between 144 to 320 different species. They can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Peanut worms live in shallow waters and can usually be found in discarded shells and burrows.

The team of researchers who went on the expedition first came into the lime light after they released a photo of a faceless fish, one of the most peculiar creatures they found in the abyss. It was also a particularly rare discovery.

In Pictures: Faceless Fish Scientists Return With Huge Haul of Weird Sea Creatures From Marine Abyss https://t.co/edlAbeSFG1 pic.twitter.com/DYzNuWqkRx  Newsweek INT. (@Newsweek_INT) June 17, 2017

Australias deep sea environment is larger in size than the mainland, and until now, almost nothing was known about life on the abyssal plain, Dr. Tim OHara, the expeditions Chief Scientist and Museums Victorias Senior Curator of Marine Invertebrates, said.

Were really excited about the discoveries that weve made and are thrilled that we can now share them with the Australian and international public, the Inquisitr reported.

Since most of the creatures found during the expedition are extremely rare, they will be sent to different laboratories across Australia in order to be examined, while some will be displayed in an exhibit at the Melbourne Museum soon.
Brussels: Britain starts formal talks to leave the EU on Monday, seeking a deal "like no other in history" despite entering fiendishly difficult negotiations with a badly weakened government.

A year after Britain`s seismic referendum, Brexit minister David Davis and the European Union`s French chief negotiator Michel Barnier will meet at the European Commission in Brussels.

At stake in hugely complex talks that are expected to conclude by March 2019 is not just Britain`s future but a western political order that would be badly shaken by a failure to reach a deal.

But the situation is very different from 12 months ago when the Brexiteers were riding high, with Prime Minister Theresa May`s entire approach called into question after a disastrous election performance on June 8.

"While there is a long road ahead, our destination is clear -- a deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU. A deal like no other in history," Davis said in a statement as he headed into the talks.

"I look forward to beginning work on that new future."

Britain already appears to have capitulated to the EU`s insistence that talks first focus on three key divorce issues, before moving onto the future EU-UK relationship and a possible trade deal.

Those issues are Britain`s exit bill, estimated by Brussels at around 100 billion euros ($112 billion), the rights of three million EU nationals living in Britain and one million Britons on the continent, and the status of the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

"Sitting down for a first formal negotiation round is something in and of itself," an EU source told AFP.

Talks will begin at 0900 GMT with a joint press conference by former French foreign minister and European commissioner Barnier and Davis at around 1630 GMT.

Worried by immigration and loss of sovereignty, Britain voted last year to end its four-decades-old membership of the 28-country bloc -- the first state ever to do so -- in a shock referendum result.

An increasingly concerned EU has been pushing London to hurry up, with time running out for a deal and three months already passed since May triggered the two-year Article 50 EU exit process.

Threats by Britain to walk away without a deal have also worried European capitals.

Monday`s talks however are likely to focus on the practical details of timings for the coming months, with the big, divisive issues left aside for now, officials said.

May herself will also have a chance to update the other 27 EU leaders on her Brexit plans at a summit in Brussels on Thursday.

"The best way we can spend this week is to rebuild trust," another European source said.

Amid reports that May is set to make a "generous offer" on the rights of EU citizens remaining in Britain, the source said London had been warned against doing so this week, on the grounds that it could drag up the thorny issue before talks had really got going.

Yet many in Brussels fear that London has no real strategy, with May under pressure at home, still trying to close a deal with a conservative Northern Ireland party to stay in power, and facing criticism for her handling of the aftermath of a devastating tower block fire.

May`s government has developed a strategy of so-called "hard Brexit": leaving the European single market and the customs union in order to control immigration from the EU.

But she now faces growing opposition at home to this, and her threats to walk away without a deal, in the wake of this month`s general election in which she lost her centre-right Conservative party`s parliamentary majority.

Finance minister Philip Hammond confirmed Sunday that it was still the plan to quit not only the EU but the customs union and single market as well.

But he warned that "we need to get there via a slope, not via a cliff edge".

Barnier says the two sides must reach agreement on a deal by October 2018, to give the European and British parliaments time to ratify the deal by Brexit Day in March 2019.
London: British Prime Minister Theresa May vowed to fight terrorism and extremism "whoever is responsible", after a white van driver ploughed through a crowd of Muslim worshippers near a London mosque on Monday.

Speaking outside her Downing Street residence, May said the attack was "a reminder that terrorism, extremism and hatred take many forms and our determination to tackle them must be the same, whoever is responsible".

May said the attack was "every bit as sickening as those that have come before", referring to three Islamist-inspired attacks in London and Manchester this year that have killed 35 people and injured around 200.

The attack "targeted the ordinary and the innocent... this time British Muslims as they left the mosque," she said, adding that police would provide any additional protection needed for mosques.

"This was an attack on Muslims near their place of worship and like all terrorism, in whatever form, it shares the same fundamental goal: it seeks to drive us apart," she said.

"There has been far too much tolerance of extremism... including Islamophobia," she said, announcing the creation of a new commission to fight extremism in the same way as racism.
Beirut: An American fighter jet has for the first time downed a Syrian warplane that Washington accused of attacking US-backed fighters, in a new escalation between the United States and regime forces.

The incident further complicates the country's six-year war and comes as a US-led coalition and allied fighters battle to oust the Islamic State group from its Syrian bastion Raqa.

Government ally Iran also yesterday launched missiles from its territory against alleged IS positions in eastern Syria for the first time, in response to an IS-claimed attack in Tehran.

Analysts say neither Washington nor President Bashar al- Assad's regime appear to be seeking further confrontation, but warn that the risks are high in Syria's increasingly crowded battlefields.

The Syrian jet was shot down yesterday evening after regime forces engaged fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), an alliance battling with US support against IS, in an area close to Raqa.

The American F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down the Syrian SU-22 around 7:00 pm as it "dropped bombs near SDF fighters" south of the town of Tabqa, the coalition said in a statement.

It said that several hours earlier, regime forces had attacked the SDF in another town near Tabqa, wounding several and driving the SDF from the town.

The coalition said the Syrian warplane had been shot down "in accordance with rules of engagement and in collective self-defence of Coalition partnered forces".

Syria's army disputed the account, saying its plane was hit while "conducting a mission against the terrorist Islamic State group."

It warned of "the grave consequences of this flagrant aggression".

Regime ally Moscow also condemned the downing of the Syrian plane, with deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov saying: "This strike has to be seen as a continuation of America's line to disregard the norms of international law... What is this if not an act of aggression?"

The incident was the latest skirmish between the US-led coalition and regime forces in the increasingly tense and crowded space in Syria's north and east.

The coalition has for months backed SDF forces in their bid to capture Raqa, an operation in which the regime has not been involved.

The SDF entered Raqa for the first time earlier this month and now holds four neighbourhoods in the east and west of the city.

Damascus has instead turned its focus further east, to the largely IS-held oil-rich province of Deir Ezzor, where government forces are besieged in part of the provincial capital. It is advancing towards the region on three fronts, south of Raqa, through the Badia desert region in central Syria, and along Syria's eastern border.
Islamabad: One of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind, Abdul Rehman Makki, has urged the Pakistani media to foster unrest in Kashmir.

While addressing reporters in Faislabad, Makki urged journalists to wield the power of pen and experience and join the cause of Kashmir.

J&K has been on the boil since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani in July last year.

Kashmir has been witnessing frequent clashes between security forces and stone-pelting mobs since then.

Makki is brother of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Haifz Saeed and carries a USD 2 million bounty on his head.

Makki was given the charge of the head of JuD after the Mumbai terror attack mastermind was put under the house arrest by Pakistans Punjab government in March this year.

India has been maintaining that Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Toiba was behind the 2008 Mumbai terror strikes and has been demanding action against Saeed. However, Pakistan has been maintaining that it demands more evidence to bring Saeed to book.
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday showered praise on Ramnath Kovind, who has been picked as BJP-led NDA's presidential candidate, saying the latter has done an exceptional job as the Governor of the Janata-Dal-United-ruled state.

Talking to reporters, Bihar CM said, ''He has done exemplary work as Governor of Bihar, he worked with impartiality and maintained an ideal relationship with the state govt.''

It's a matter of happiness for me personally, he told reporters.

However, the Bihar CM stopped short of announcing his support to Kovind, whoo was hand-picked by a high-powered committee including BJP chief Amit Shah, PM Narendra Modi, Sushma Swaraj, Rajnath Singh, Ananth Kumar, M Venkaiah Naidu and several top leaders.

As far as support is concerned, I can't say anything right now. it is too early to say, Nitish Kumar said.

Meanwhile, opposition parties have called a meeting on June 22 to take a decision on the issue.,

The reactions from opposition leaders came shortly after Amit Shah announced Kovind's name on this morning.

The final decision on the presidential's nominee was taken at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah, including Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Rajnath Singh, Ananth Kumar, M Venkaiah Naidu and several top leaders.

BJP's Parliamentary Board is the party's highest decision-making body.

While addressing a press conference in the national capital, Shah announced the decision.

Shah said there has been no discussion yet on names for the vice president post.

The BJP chief said political parties had been informed of the NDA's choice. "I hope all will agree to the name," he said at a press conference.

The BJP had on Sunday stepped up its efforts to gather support for its unnamed Presidential nominee, with its top leaders talking to allies Shiv Sena and LJP as well as the Trinamool Congress and BJD, even as it disclosed that the NDA candidate will file the nomination before June 24 after the opposition is conveyed its choice.

Bharatiya Janata Party and allied MPs are being called to New Delhi by Tuesday to sign the nomination papers. Each nomination paper has to be signed by at least 50 proposers and an equal number of seconders who can also be MLAs.

The National Democratic Alliance's attempt is to file at least three-four sets of nominations of its candidate so that all allies can get to sign.
New Delhi: Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind has been decided as NDA's presidential candidate, Amit Shah announced on Monday.

The final decision on the presidential's nominee was taken today at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah, including Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Rajnath Singh, Ananth Kumar, M Venkaiah Naidu and several top leaders.

BJP's Parliamentary Board is the party's highest decision-making body.

While addressing a press conference in the national capital, Shah announced the decision.

Shah said there has been no discussion yet on names for the vice president post.

The BJP chief said political parties had been informed of the NDA's choice. "I hope all will agree to the name," he said at a press conference.

About Ram Nath Kovind

Ram Nath Kovind, was born on October 1, 1945 at Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh.

Career as an Advocate - His Excellency, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, was Central Government Advocate in Delhi High Court from 1977 to 1979 and Central Government Standing Counsel in Supreme Court from 1980 to 1993. He became Advocate-on-Record of the Supreme Court of India in 1978. Had practiced in Delhi High Court and Supreme Court for about 16 years till 1993. He was enrolled as an Advocate in 1971 with the Bar Council of Delhi.

Career as a Parliamentarian - His Excellency Shri Ram Nath Kovind was elected and became as Rajya Sabha MP in April 1994 from Uttar Pradesh and served for two consecutive terms for 12 years till March, 2006. Shri Kovind served as Member on following important Parliamentary Committees:-

-Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes/Tribes.

-Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs.

-Parliamentary Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas.

-Parliamentary Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment.

-Parliamentary Committee on Law and Justice.

-Chairman of Rajya Sabha House Committee.

Ram Nath Kovind is married to Smt Savita Kovind. He has a son Prashant Kumar who is married and a daughter.

Also Read: Ram Nath Kovind  All about NDA's presidential candidate

The BJP meet was held after a three-member party committee, comprising of Rajnath Singh, Naidu and Arun Jaitley last week met with allies and opposition parties.

The BJP on Sunday had stepped up its efforts to gather support for its unnamed Presidential nominee, with its top leaders talking to allies Shiv Sena and LJP as well as the Trinamool Congress and BJD, even as it disclosed that the NDA candidate will file the nomination before June 24 after the opposition is conveyed its choice.

Bharatiya Janata Party and allied MPs are being called to New Delhi by Tuesday to sign the nomination papers. Each nomination paper has to be signed by at 50 proposers and an equal number of seconders who can also be MLAs.

The National Democratic Alliance's attempt is to file at least three-four sets of nominations of its candidate so that all allies can get to sign.
New Delhi: The Opposition would announce its decision on whether to support NDA nominee Ram Nath Kovind as president only on June 22, it said on Monday, hours after the government announced its candidate.

We will meet on 22nd June, and only then we can announce our decision, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said.

Though she did not directly oppose his nomination, she however said, Kovind was made a candidate because he was once a leader of BJP's Dalit Morcha.

Ex-UP CM and Dalit leader Mayawati said that her party is not averse to his nomination, but only if the opposition does not announce another Dalit name.

As he is a Dalit we are positive on his name, she said, adding We are also of the opinion that it would have been better if NDA had named some non-political Dalit person as President nominee.

Kovind, who is currently the governor of Bihar, will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi here later today.

Lauding the NDA nominee, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, He (Ram Nath Kovind) has done exemplary work (as governor of Bihar), worked with impartiality, maintained an ideal relationship with the state government.

He, however, did not divulge whether his party would support the NDA nominee for president.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari said, Under his leadership, India will prosper and the oppressed will get justice.

Meanwhile, celebrations began outside the BJP office in Lucknow after Kovind was declared NDA presidential candidate.
New Delhi: Ending days of suspense over incumbent Pranab Mukherjee's likely successor, the BJP on Monday named Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind as the NDA's presidential candidate  a move that baffled the Opposition parties, which accused the ruling party of taking a decision 'unilaterally'.

Led by the Congress, the Opposition parties, which hesitated to question Kovind's credentials, will now meet on June 22 to chalk out a strategy.

Opposition leaders have agreed to attend the June 22 meeting, to be chaired by Congress President Sonia Gandhi to take a final decision on the July 17 presidential election, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said here.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed surprise over the name and said that "in order to support someone, we must know the person".

"Candidate should be someone who will be beneficial for the country. The opposition will meet on June 22 - only then we can announce our decision," she said.

Sulking BJP ally Shiv Sena too indicated its unhappiness, saying it was not consulted on the candidate.

The nomination of Kovind, a Dalit leader, by the Bharatiya Janata Party appeared to have put the opposition in a quandary as the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) said it cannot oppose the NDA candidate unless the opposition puts up a popular Dalit candidate.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar hailed Kovind's role as state Governor but remained non-committal on supporting him.

Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Sitaram Yechury said Kovind "was chief of the RSS's Dalit branch" and "somewhere it was a political fight or contest".

Azad also accused the BJP of "unilateralism" but did not say whether or not the opposition will field a candidate for the July 17 contest.

"So far as the National Democratic Alliance nominee is concerned, the Congress has nothing to say on the merits or demerits. All the opposition parties had collectively decided on evolving a consensus on the Presidential candidate when leaders of 18 parties met," Azad said.

"We had full hope that before announcing they will discuss some names. They did inform us but only after they had decided on the name," he said and termed the outreach by the BJP as a "formality".

Mayawati, in her remarks to the media, said: "We are not against Kovind's nomination... As he is a Dalit, we can't oppose his name, but only if the united opposition doesn't announce a popular Dalit name."

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut told media persons in Mumbai that BJP President Amit Shah called up Sena President Uddhav Thackeray after announcing Kovind's name and sought his support.

Thackeray said he will call a Sena meeting before taking a final call. Thackeray told Shah on Sunday that the Sena will take a decision after the BJP announces the candidate.

Banerjee said senior BJP leaders LK Advani or Sushma Swaraj could have been made candidates.

"The President's is a key post. Someone of the stature of Pranab Mukherjee, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advani-ji, may have been made the candidate," she said.

Nitish Kumar called on Kovind in Patna and said he is "personally glad" over his candidature, but was non-commital on Janata Dal-United's support to his candidature.

"Kovind has discharged his duties as Bihar Governor in an unbiased manner. He has worked as per the Constitution and upheld the dignity of the Governor's post. His was an ideal relationship with the state government," Nitish Kumar said.

As to whether the JD-U will support his candidature, Nitish Kumar said they will discuss the issue later and decide.

Sonia Gandhi had taken the initiative to forge a consensus on the opposition's candidate for the presidential poll.

The opposition parties had formed a sub-committee to select a candidate but decided not to come up with a name till there was clarity about the choice of the ruling alliance.
Lahore: Hafeez Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) said it will launch a campaign in "solidarity" with the people of Kashmir on July 8, the day when Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed last year.

"The drive will continue till July 19 during which big gatherings, conferences and rallies will be held across (Pakistan)," said JuD acting chief Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki.

Makki, a brother-in-law of Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been looking after the affairs of JuD in the absence of Saeed, under house arrest in Lahore since January 30 under Pakistan's anti-terrorism law.

The JuD operates freely in Pakistan, disguising itself under different names after being banned or cracked upon. Its chief Saeed and his four aides have been detained on the orders of Pakistani government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and the country's security.
New Delhi: The first cargo flight of the Afghanistan-India air freight corridor carrying Afghan goods to India landed in New Delhi on Monday night.

The cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi establishing first air freight corridor was received here today by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Ganapati Raju, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar and the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India Shaida Abdali.

The arrival of the cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi marked the inauguration of the dedicated Air Freight Corridor between the two countries.

The Kabul to Delhi flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly 'hing') from Afghanistan, was flagged off in Kabul by President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet Ministers and India's Ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

A similar cargo flight from Delhi to Kabul had earlier carried 100 tonnes of cargo (mainly pharmaceuticals, water purifiers, medical equipments) on June 18, 2017 from Delhi to Kabul.

"The connectivity established through the Air Freight Corridor will provide Afghanistan, a landlocked country, greater access to markets in India, and will allow Afghan businessmen to leverage India's economic growth and trade networks for its benefit. It would enable Afghan farmers quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce," said Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary, (PAI-Pakistan, Afghanistan, India) in the Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi.

"This flight has added another chapter to the connectivity that has existed since times immemorial. We hope to extend air cargo flights to other cities between India and Afghanistan," said Gopal Bagley, spokesperson of Ministry of External Affairs.

The decision to establish an Air Freight Corridor between Afghanistan and India was taken in the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ashraf Ghani in September 2016 during the President Ghani's visit to India.

"During his visit to India in September 2016, President Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businessmen to achieve a target of USD 10 billion in trade over the next five years," said Dr. Mittal.

"Keeping with President Ghani's vision, we have eased our visa regime for Afghan businesspersons. Also, we have increased the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year. Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals," Mittal further said.

"India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country," Mittal added.

Earlier, in January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan Trucks to enter the Indian Territory through Atari land check post for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan. India is also cooperating with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chabahar Port.

Later on in May 2016, a trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed in the presence of the leaders of the three countries in Tehran.

"These routes and corridors are aimed at providing sea, land and air access route for Afghanistan to regional and global markets in South Asia and beyond," Mittal added.

"Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, articles of apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibers, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee/tea/meat and spices," said Shaida Abdali, the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India.

"This is just the beginning .We are optimistic for further adding to the volume of trade between the two countries .We will be expanding to flights other provinces like Kandahar, Heart and Mazar-e- Sharif," Abdali added.

Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious and semi-precious stones, etc.

"India remains committed to assist Afghanistan in all possible ways in its political, security and economic transitions to ensure emergence of a sovereign, united, democratic, pluralistic, stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan," said Bagley.
Beijing: India on Monday urged the BRICS nations to shed their ambiguity on "good" and "bad" terrorists and said that efforts should be made for adoption of a comprehensive convention on terrorism at the UN.

Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) VK Singh is representing India at the meeting of the foreign ministers of the five-nation bloc.

Besides Singh, foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa are participating in the meet ahead of this year's Summit in China's Xiamen city.

"Everyone agrees that terrorism is a common enemy of mankind. Everybody is fully concerned about threat of terrorism in various manifestations," Singh said, addressing a joint press conference with the foreign ministers.

"We also ask for expediting the adoption of the comprehensive convention on international terrorism in the UN which has been pending for some time. We have the support of all members of BRICS nations," he said.

Responding to questions over concerns on cross border terrorism from Pakistan, Singh said, "on behalf of India I pointed out that terrorism remains one of the most potent global menace".

"We did bring out that it threatens global peace and terrorists cannot be differentiated by calling them good or bad," he said, without directly referring to China blocking the efforts by India, the US and other countries to bring about a UN ban on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) leader Masood Azhar for his involvement in the Pathankot terror attack.

"They are terrorists and they are criminals and we need to have a concerted action both in the regional and internationally to curb their activities," Singh said.

A media note of the meeting said the ministers deplored the continued terrorist attacks, including in some BRICS countries.

"They condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever. They reaffirm solidarity and resolve in the fight against terrorism, call upon the international community to establish a genuinely broad international counter-terrorism coalition and support the United Nations' central coordinating role in the international counter-terrorism cooperation," the statement said.

The leaders recalled the responsibility of all states to prevent financing of terrorist networks and terrorist actions from their territories and called upon an expedited adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN General Assembly, it said.

(With PTI inputs)
New Delhi: Ram Nath Kovind, the NDA's presidential candidate, on Monday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah hours after his name was declared as NDA's presidential nominee.

News agency ANI posted the pictures of Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee Ram Nath Kovind meeting PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, which was a courtesy call.

Delhi: Bihar Governor and NDA presidential nominee #RamNathKovind met PM Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. pic.twitter.com/JIwNvoBIyS  ANI (@ANI_news) June 19, 2017

Ahead of his meeting with the PM Modi, Kovind expressed the hope that all political parties will back his nomination in the July 17 election.

"I appeal to all members of the electoral college who are MPs and MLAs from all political parties for their support. I will appeal to them, I will meet them and take their blessings," Kovind told the media on his arrival from Patna.

Asked whether Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his support when he called on him, the Bihar Governor said the Janata Dal-United leader had made a courtesy call.

"As I am the Governor of Bihar, Nitishji made a courtesy call when he came to know about my nomination," he said.

Asked if the opposition will field a candidate against him, Kovind said, "I think I will have the support and blessings of every citizen of India."

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP family for reposing trust and entrusting such a big responsibility on "an ordinary citizen".

On his arrival in Delhi airport, Kovind was greeted by a host of union ministers and BJP leaders including Thawar Chand Gehlot, JP Nadda, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya and Manoj Tiwary.

Earlier, in Patna, Kovind said about his nomination, "It is a duty. Let us take it as a duty."

He said he had a lot of good wishes for Bihar, which he added had "rich culture, rich traditions and lot of heritage".

With IANS Inputs
Cairo: Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who is wanted in India on terror charges, is facing opposition from activists in Lebanon who have launched a campaign to ban his entry after a local cleric invited him to deliver a lecture.

Calling Naik's views "extremist" and "inflammatory", the Lebanese activists say his presence is not conducive to the "harmony of a multicultural country like Lebanon", according to The New Arab.

"Zakir Naik is an extremist preacher known to spread hate speech that attacks non-Muslims and moderate Muslims alike, and he has been banned from entering many countries," Khaled Merheb, a lawyer and human rights activist, was quoted as saying by the news portal.

Sheikh Hassan Katerji, head of Lebanon's little known Salafi group Islamic Federation Society, posted on Facebook from Saudi Arabia that Naik's visit would take place "soon", once adequate preparations were made.

"Good news! Praise be to Allah, the preacher Zakir Naik has agreed to come to Lebanon when I visited him this morning," he posted on his Facebook on June 11.

"Tomorrow I will, God willing, begin contacts with the authorities to guarantee his safe entry and residence," Katerji later posted on Facebook.

A petition was launched soon thereafter via the Avaaz platform, appealing for people to support a ban on Naik's entry to the Mediterranean country. Activists behind the campaign are also threatening legal action.

"Naik's visit is dangerous on many levels," said Merheb, the Lebanese lawyer. "It encourages extremism, creates tension between different religious communities in Lebanon and may inspire jihadis." His views may be in violation of Lebanese laws regarding sectarian incitement, the lawyer added.

The controversial preacher is accused of spreading hatred by his provocative speeches, funding terrorists and laundering several crores of rupees over the years.

Naik had fled from India on July 1, 2016 after terrorists in neighbouring Bangladesh claimed that they were inspired by his speeches on waging jehad.

He is being probed in India for terror and money laundering charges. He had fled from India immediately after an investigation against him was initiated.

Naik denies all the charges. His present place of stay is unknown and it is believed that he has been shuttling between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, African and Southeast Asian countries.

India has already banned his NGO - Islamic Research Foundation - and taken his TV channel Peace TV off air.
Jamshedpur: A woman who was critically injured during the May 18 lynching incident at Nagadih here succumbed to her injuries on Monday, police said.

Ramsakhi Devi (70), who was rushed to Tata Main Hospital in a serious condition after she was beaten on May 18, succumbed to her injuries at around 2 am today, Officer-in-charge of Bagbera police station, Ramjash Prasad said.

Ramsakhi Devi had rushed to the spot to plea with the mob to spare her two grandchildren Vikash Verma and Gautam Verma and their friend Gangesh Gupta. Vikas, Gautam and Gangesh were lynched by the villagers on suspicion of being child lifters and Ramsakhi was beaten up.

Since then, she was undergoing treatment in Tata Main Hospital.

Prasad said 16 people have been arrested in regard with the Nagadih lynching incident so far.
Bengaluru: Opposition BJP on Monday demanded an immediate removal of Karnataka Forest Minister Ramanath Rai for allegedly directing a senior police official to take action against a local RSS functionary, following the recent group clashes at Kalladka in Dakshina Kannada district.

Raising the issue in the Assembly, the saffron party accused Rai, the minister in-charge of Dakshina Kannada district, of "instigating" and "influencing" the police investigation.

A video clip, in which Rai is purportedly seen directing Dakshina Kannada Superintendent of Police Bhushan Gulabrao Borase to arrest Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat, has gone viral.

In the clip, Rai is purportedly heard saying, "Nothing will happen if Prabhakar Bhat is arrested. If he?delivers speeches, book a criminal case against him, book him under?307 (the IPC section relating to murder)...He is not a big man."

Claiming that the BJP's aim was to "provoke" the Muslims, the?minister is heard complaining that those with "RSS links" in the police?force were yet to be removed.

Members of two communities had clashed at Kalladka last week in the aftermath of the stabbing of Hindu Jagarana Vedike district president Ratnakar Shetty and another person, leading?to prohibitory orders being imposed in the area.

Leader of Opposition Jagadish Shettar demanded to know under what authority the minister was "interfering" in the police probe.

"Is this how a responsible minister functions? He is clearly interfering in the police investigation. It is highly condemnable," he said.

Demanding Rai's immediate resignation or removal by the chief minister, Shettar quoted from media reports which claimed that as per the SP's probe, "narcotics-related activities" had led to the violence.

"When the SP is saying that an issue related to narcotics and drugs is the reason, how can a minister try to influence him to book?a RSS leader? He should be ashamed. Such an irresponsible act by the minister has resulted in the recurrence of violence in the district," he alleged.

Other BJP members also took strong exception to the minister?"issuing instructions" to the SP.

While Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri demanded that Rai be reprimanded for this, another MLA K G Bopaiah claimed that the minister was liable to face action under section 153(A) of the IPC and added that a complaint was submitted to the police against him.

Section 153(A), IPC pertains to promoting enmity between different groups on the grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language etc., and committing acts prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony.

BJP Chief Whip in the Assembly Sunil claimed that it was clear that the minister's?"only intention was to target the pro-Hindutva outfits", adding that the latter must be removed to ensure a fair investigation about the clashes.

Responding to the allegations, Rai said the entire video had?to be seen to understand the context.

As he sought to hold the Sangh Parivar "responsible" for the killing of a gram panchayat vice president in the district, the BJP members objected to it and demanded?proof.

This resulted in a war of words between the members of the ruling party and the opposition.

Calling himself "secular" and saying that he would resign if it was proved that he had instigated a clash on the basis of religion, Rai said, "I only told the SP to?act against those involved in instigating the people."

"If Kalladka?Prabhakar Bhat was one of them, I asked the SP to arrest him as well. It was a general?statement. I did not issue any instruction to the SP. I only asked?him to ensure peace and not to harass innocent people in the name of?investigation," he added.

Intervening, Speaker K B Koliwad said the home minister would give a reply on behalf of the government later.
Mumbai: Barely a day after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and BJP President Amit Shah met here, the Shiv Sena on Monday launched a fresh attack on its ally -- this time for the grim situation in Jammu and Kashmir and West Bengal.

"Amit Shah says if mid-term polls are held in Maharashtra, they will win hands down. They can also win the presidential election. But who will win the war in Jammu and Kashmir?" the Sena asked pointedly in an edit in the party mouthpieces 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana'.

Expressing its concern over the renewed spate of terror in the Kashmir Valley and the violence in West Bengal's Darjeeling, the Sena said these heavenly places on earth are currently passing through a bad spell, but "some people" are more eager about winning mid-term elections in Maharashtra.

"We wish them all the best. However, we are not perturbed about winning or losing mid-term elections in Maharashtra. Our greatest worry is whether Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the map of India in the long run," the edit said.

"The BJP is standing solidly with 'anti-national elements', it is backing (Chief Minister) Mehbooba Mufti, who in turn, keeps making reckless statements, but not a single 'Parivar' member has shown guts to challenge her," noted the edit.

The Sena pointed out that whenever there are encounters and terrorists are killed by our security forces in Kashmir, brutal retaliatory attacks on the camps and bases of Indian armed forces follow, killing many of our soldiers.

The separatists in West Bengal are heavily armed and get support from various quarters, though Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is trying her best by inviting them for talks, the Sena said.

About Jammu and Kashmir, the Sena said it appears that organisations like IS, Lashkar e Taiba, Al-Qaeda and ISI (of Pakistan) have already wrested control over the critical border state.

"These (BJP/Parivar) people should focus their attention there and think of how you will win the war in J&K, and ensure that the sacrifices of our soldiers don't go in vain. The situation there has gone out of hand. Kashmir must be saved," the edit said.

The Sena's attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came barely 24 hours after Shah and Thackeray met in Mumbai for 75 minutes amid optimism of a thaw in the chilled relations between the two allies of nearly three decades.
Mumbai: Keeping up the suspense, NDA ally Shiv Sena on Monday said party chief Uddhav Thackeray will convene a meeting of Sena leaders to decide on supporting the ruling alliance's choice for president.

The Shiv Sena, the second largest constituent of the NDA, has had an uneasy relationship with the BJP ever since the two parties parted ways ahead of the 2014 assembly polls.

Though it later joined the BJP-led ministry in Maharashtra, Sena has continued to needle the lead partner over all vital issues including demonetisation and tension on the borders.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhavji after the NDA's presidential candidate was decided by the BJP's parliamentary board meeting. Shah sought the Sena's support for Ram Nath Kovind," Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut told reporters here.

"Uddhavji told him that he will convene a meeting of the party leaders to arrive at a decision and convey our answer to him in one or two days," he said.

The Sena MP said Thackeray may "answer many questions later this evening" when he will address its workers on the party's 51st foundation day.

"We had suggested two names for the post. One was of (RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat. If they (BJP) had a problem with that, we wanted (eminent agriculturist) M S Swaminathan. But since they have chosen some other name, the party will convey to the BJP our decision soon," Raut said.

In the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, the BJP has 122 MLAs and claims to have support of some more legislators.

There are 67 members from Maharashtra in Parliament - 48 in the Lok Sabha and 19 in the Rajya Sabha.

The BJP-led NDA (including Sena) has total of 52 MPs.

The Sena has 21 MPs - 18 Lok Sabha and 3 Rajya Sabha members - while the BJP has 23 Lok Sabha and 5 Rajya Sabha members from the state that corresponds to a total value of 19,824.

The Congress-led UPA has 15 MPs from the state in both the Houses of Parliament. The total value of MP votes of UPA is 10,620.
Paris/Kolkata, June 19 (IBNS) Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) signed an agreement affirming the companies' intent to join hands to produce the F-16 Block 70 in India.

The F-16 Block 70 is suited to meet the Indian Air Forces single-engine fighter needs and this unmatched U.S.-Indian industry partnership directly supports Indias initiative to develop private aerospace and defense manufacturing capacity in India, a company statement claimed.

F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the U.S., creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world, it said.

This agreement builds on the already established joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata and underscores the relationship and commitment between the two companies, said N. Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons.

Lockheed Martin is honored to partner with Indian defense and aerospace leader Tata Advanced Systems Limited on the F-16 program, said Orlando Carvalho, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 Make in India offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the U.S., and brings the worlds most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India, Chandrasekaran said.

The Lockheed Martin-TASL F-16 partnering agreement builds on TASLs proven performance manufacturing airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter.




Mumbai: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has flown to New York along with daughter Aaradhya to spend some time with husband Abhishek, who is already on the US.

The mother-daughter duo was snapped by the paparazzi outside the airport here. Ash kept her all-black look simple yet elegant. She was wearing leggings and a shimmering top teamed up with a flowy shrug.

Aradhya looked cute in blue denims and a baby pink top.

The Bachchans are expected to fly to London from New York for another short vacation!
Mumbai: Well-known Bhojpuri actress and model Anjali Shrivastava was found dead at her Andheri west residence, police said here on Monday.

According to police, Anjali's family members from Allahabad had been trying to call her since Sunday night, but she did not respond on her mobile.

Worried about her safety, the family contacted her landlord, who called the police and they entered her home on the fifth floor in Parimal Society on Juhu Road with a duplicate key on Monday afternoon.

They found the 29-year-old actress hanging from the ceiling fan from a sari, presumably having committed suicide.

Police searched her residence but did not find any suicide note or anything suspicious.

Her body has been sent for an autopsy to R. N. Cooper Hospital.

Having worked in several Bhojpuri films, she acted last in the recent action-comedy film, "Kehu Ta Dilme Ba".
New Delhi: Since quite a while now, reports of Indian megastar Rajinikanth joining politics have been doing the rounds. But, the 66-year-old actor never confirmed the same. On Monday, Hindu Makkal Katchi leader Arjun Sampath and General Secretary Ravikumar met Rajinikanth at his residence, this has triggered further speculations regarding the veteran's innings in politics.

"His (Rajinikanth) response was good, he says he wants to do something for Tamil Nadu and country. He will consider joining politics," said Arjun. However, Rajini had something different to tell about his meeting with the Hindu Makkal Katchi.

"It was just a courtesy visit by leaders of Hindu Makkal Katchi," explained Rajinikanth.

Well, it is still not definite whether or not the 'Kabali' actor will enter politics but his latest meeting has surely got his fans into a tizzy.

(With ANI inputs)
New Delhi: The Narendra Modi Cabinet is likely to put an end to year-long wait of central government employees for allowances, including HRA (House Rent Allowance) by taking final call on the proposal in its next meeting on June 28.

Earlier, the Union Cabinet was expected to give its nod to the proposal this week but it got delayed due to Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys three-day visit to Moscow beginning June 21. He will back in the country by June 25.

If the Cabinet takes final call on June 28 then the central government employees will get revised allowances from July month salary.

As per sources, the Cabinet will take final decision on E-CoS' proposal on June 28. The Empowered Committee of Secretaries (E-CoS) set up to screen the Lavasa panel recommendations on allowances has already submitted its proposal to the Cabinet for approval.

A high-level committee headed by the Finance Secretary, Ashok Lavasa had on April 27 submitted its report to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

The Empowered Committee of Secretaries has reportedly given its view in favour of AK Mathur-led 7th Pay Commission recommendation, regarding decrease in house rent allowance (HRA) by 2-6 percent depending on type of cities.

The 7th Pay Commission headed by AK Mathur had earlier proposed the rate of House Rent Allowance (HRA) at 24 percent, 16 percent and 8 percent of the Basic Pay for Class X, Y and Z cities respectively.

The Commission had also recommended that the rate of HRA will be revised to 27 percent, 18 percent and 9 percent when DA crosses 50 percent, and further revised to 30 percent, 20 percent and 10 percent when DA crosses 100 percent.

The existing rates of HRA for Class X, Y and Z cities and towns are 30 percent, 20 percent and 10 percent of Basic pay (pay in the pay band plus grade pay).

HRA as per existing or 6th CPC HRA as per AK Mathur panel city X (min-max) city Y (min-max) city Z (min-max) city X (min-max) city Y (min-max) city Z (min-max) Rs 5,400- Rs 75,000 Rs 3,600- Rs 50,000 Rs 1,800- Rs 25,000 Rs 4,320-Rs 60,000 Rs 2,880-Rs 40,000 Rs 1,440-Rs 20,000



Option 1

If the government accepts the bare recommendations of A K Mathur-led 7th Pay Commission then the HRA component of central government employees will increase ranging between 106 percent and 122 percent.

Take, for instance, a central government employee at the very bottom of the pay scale under 6th Pay Commission was till now entitled to an HRA of Rs 2,100 on basic pay of Rs 7,000 (basic pay that includes pay of pay band + grade pay) in a Class X city. It is to be noted that government, while implementing the 7th Pay Commission in June last year had made it clear that till the final outcome of allowances committee is being placed, the employees would be getting the allowances as per 6th Pay Commission.

Now, as per 7th Pay Commission, the new entry level pay at this level is Rs 18,000 per month against which the new HRA for a Class X city would be Rs 4,320 per month, that is 106 percent more than the existing level.

Similarly, at the highest level of the pay scale, the Cabinet Secretary and officers of the same rank have a basic pay of Rs 90,000, which means they are entitled to current HRA of Rs 27,000 in Class X towns. After the revised pay scale, the new basic pay is Rs 2.5 lakh, for which the HRA would be Rs 60,000, meaning a hike of 122 percent.



Option 2

If the government retains the exiting HRA rates (as per 6th Pay Commission) then the HRA component of central government employees will increase ranging between 157 percent and 178 percent.

Take, for instance, a central government employee at the very bottom of the pay scale under 6th Pay Commission was till now entitled to an HRA of Rs 2,100 on basic pay of Rs 7,000 (basic pay that includes pay of pay band + grade pay) in a Class X city. It is to be noted that government, while implementing the 7th Pay Commission in June last year had made it clear that till the final outcome of allowances committee is being placed, the employees would be getting the allowances as per 6th Pay Commission.

Now, as per 7th Pay Commission, the new entry level pay at this level is Rs 18,000 per month against which the new HRA for a Class X city would be Rs 5,400 per month, that is around 157 percent more than the existing level.

Similarly, at the highest level of the pay scale, the Cabinet Secretary and officers of the same rank have a basic pay of Rs 90,000, which means they are entitled to current HRA of Rs 27,000 in Class X towns. After the revised pay scale, the new basic pay is Rs 2.5 lakh, for which the HRA would be Rs 75,000, meaning a hike of around 178 percent.
Mumbai: Sunil Grover, who was once a part of Kapil Sharmas team, has now joined forces with Krushna Abhishek. The actor-comedian will however, only make guest appearances!

Ali Asgar, Sugandha Mishra and Sanket Bhosle have been roped in by the makers of Comedy Company but Grover will not be a regular member of the show.

According to a report in DNA, the show produced by the team that was previously associated with The Kapil Sharma Show, will see Grover making guest appearances.

After his fight with Kapil, Sunil doesnt want to take on any show permanently. However, he will make guest appearances on Comedy Company playing different characters. He doesnt want to be bound to any one show or channel, DNA quoted sources as saying.

For the uninitiated, Kapil reportedly had an ugly fight with Sunil while they were returning from Australia after a successful tour Down Under. Ever since the mid-flight fight happened, Grover, Ali and Chandan Prabhakar havent shot for Sharmas show.
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday urged all concerned parties and stakeholders to attend an all-party meeting called by the state government in Siliguri on June 22 on the prevailing situation in Darjeeling.

Urging the people to maintain peace, she said, "Violence cannot be a solution to any problem and only talks can solve it."

"Though I will not be there, other ministers have been given the responsibility to hold the meeting," Banerjee told reporters at the airport before leaving for Netherlands to speak on the occasion of UN Public Service Day on June 23.

She accused the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) of hatching a "conspiracy to divide the state".

The GJM had on Saturday ruled out any discussion with the West Bengal government.

"We are ready for talks with the Centre, but the agenda has to be only Gorkhaland," GJM Darjeeling MLA Amar Singh Rai had said.
Kolkata: Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission president Swami Atmasthanandaji Maharaj was on Monday cremated with full state honours as devotees and eminent personalities paid their last respects.

Police personnel reversed arms and gave a gun salute with the bugle sounding the Last Post as others monks lit the funeral pyre.

The pyre was set up beside the river Hooghly inside the Math complex. Ignoring the continuous downpour, hundreds of people congregated at the crematorium to bid a tearful adieu to the monk.

Since last night, thousands of devotees with wreaths, garlands, and flowers thronged the Math's headquarters at Belur in Howrah district to pay their last respect to the monk who died on Sunday after a prolonged illness.

The Howrah District Magistrate placed a wreath on the monk's body on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also paid her last respects.

Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy, West Bengal ministers Arup Roy, Firhad Hakim, Rajib Banerjee Lakshmi Ratan Shukla, Trinamool Congress MP Prasun Banerjee and party's leader Mukul Roy, BJP leader Locket Chatterjee paid their last respect to the monk, who was President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission since December 3, 2007.
Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday appealed to people in the northern West Bengal hills to maintain peace instead of "playing with fire" amid the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM)-called indefinite shutdown.

"I would like to appeal to everyone in the mountains to kindly maintain peace. Solution can be reached through meetings and dialogues only when peace is maintained," she said before leaving for the Netherlands.

"I don't differentiate between the hill people and others. We all work everywhere in the state. Burning down things is not the right thing to do. Instead of playing with fire, peace should be safeguarded," Banerjee said.

Banerjee will address the Public Service Day of the UN on June 22 at The Hague in the Netherlands.
Journalist-actor-corporate communication professional Mahul Brahma's maiden book Decoding Luxe is a book on luxury brands, exploring their various facets. Brahma is a luxury commentator and columnist who heads corporate communications and branding for Tata group company mjunction. A former journalist, he also dabbles in acting with his debut film screened at Cannes Film Festival. IBNS writer Suman Das in conversation

As the realms of luxury and affordability fuse with common people, Mahul's book takes a strategic, behavioural, historical, experiential, demographical, psychological, dynamic, mechanical, and also a philosophical look at what constitutes luxe or dazzle. The book is meant for all stakeholders of luxury brands  owner, custodian, retailer, connoisseur as well as student  helping them understand and formulate, with a historical perspective, an effective strategy for conceiving, positioning, placing, promoting and pricing these luxury products.

What does luxury mean to you?

What is luxury? No matter how obvious the question might seem, it demands some contemplation. What does luxury mean to you? Expensive? Exorbitant? Unaffordable? The word luxury has its origin in luxe, which means dazzle. So technically, anything that dazzles you is luxury and it is this dazzle that commands the premium. Whether you call that dazzle brand equity or razzle dazzle is completely your call.

Why a book on luxury?

Unfortunately, the literature on luxury is very limited, globally, and writers have mostly focused on cataloguing luxury products and showcasing them. There was an urgent need to narrate a wonderful tale of luxe -- capturing this wonderful dazzle in a holistic way, unveiling its various facets. My columns for The Economic Times  ET Retail have been a great avenue for narrating the untold luxury story. Whether you can afford it or not, you can always appreciate it. However, through my columns I was not able to paint a holistic, all-encompassing picture of luxe. I felt the need to pen a book that captures the essence of luxury and its long-standing romance with India. This book is a result of that quest on which I had embarked on, two decades ago. It has been a great adventure and I want more and more people to set sail.



How is Decoding Luxe different from other books in this genre?

Decoding Luxe essentially explores various facets of luxury brands, which used to be a niche market, but only till some time back. As the realms of luxury and affordability fuse with common people, this book takes a strategic, behavioural, historical, experiential, demographical, psychological, dynamic, mechanical, and also a philosophical look at what constitutes luxe or dazzle.

It is a bible for all stakeholders of luxury brands  owner, custodian, retailer, connoisseur as well as student  helping them understand and formulate, with a historical perspective, an effective strategy for conceiving, positioning, placing, promoting and pricing these luxury products.However, this book is not at all about product reviews, which is what is largely considered as luxury writing in India and abroad. This book will not tell you what to buy and from where to buy it. No! This isnt a catalogue of luxury goods and boutiques. Decoding Luxe takes you on a quest through dreams, aspirations, contradictions, myths, royalty, and realities that shroud this very mysterious element called luxury.



You have written that luxury is relative. Can you elaborate on that?

Luxury is relative. The luxe quotient and luxe factor (measures that I have created to measure this dazzle) are fundamentally relative. However, what dazzles you may not dazzle me. Also the degree of dazzle becomes a key differentiator.

Let me elaborate with a few Indian examples the degree to which the razzle-dazzle differs. I drool over a Cartier Panthere ring, or a Louis Vuitton hot-stamped trunk. For me that is luxury. However, making an apple to apple comparison, my dazzle just seems lacking any lustre when we look at the way the Richie Riches of our Great Nation of the poor have dabbled in luxury: be it the Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singhs Cartier crown with 234.69 carat De Beers diamond or Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir Hari Singhs customised 30 Louis Vuitton trunks, one of which is still on display at one of the LV stores.



You have said that the e-commerce in luxury will not work. Why so?

The reason behind the success of e-commerce in India is our love for price-sensitivity. We love discounts, we love value for our money. The entire machinery of e-commerce or e-retail runs on unrealistic deals and discounts.And this is where the meeting of hearts between ecommerce and luxury doesnt happen. So let us understand the premises on which luxury buying is based in India.

Luxe is a purely experiential phenomenon as it is heavily dependent on how your senses perceive something. If your senses feel dazzled, you are convinced to shell out that premium for a luxury brand.The entire shopping experience wherein you try a great pair of shoes or a lovely shirt and look at the mirror and then decide whether you should buy it or try another one cant ever be replicated by an image of the same product, even with a 360 degree view. It is next to impossible to excite and convince our senses via a laptop, tab or mobile screen.

And that is why the ecommerce companies try the same strategy of heavy discounts that they try for premium products. Unfortunately, this story of crazy discounts opens another can of worms -- the world of luxury counterfeits that are sold online.

When you are paying a hefty premium for a luxury purchase you are paying for the experience. You walk into a luxury boutique, the way you are greeted with a smile and offered a special treatment from the word go, it is bound to make you feel good and special. The boutique manager will make you realise that you are almost on the verge of entering an exclusive and elite club with an amazing history and legacy -- it is just a purchase away. Then your senses, which are already feeling special, actually experiences the goods feel more special. For example, the latest Omega watch that James Bond is sporting in Spectre is on your wrist. How can you not feel elated? You have already bonded with that timepiece. You just know this is the one.



I was quite intrigued by the chapter on luxury counterfeits. Do you think it is growing market? Do you really online presence has helped counterfeit market grow?

Growing at a compounded annual growth rate of almost 40-45 per cent, the counterfeit luxury products market in India is likely to more than double to INR 5,600 crore from the current level of about INR 2,500 crore. A reason why the market of luxury fakes is growing at such a fast pace is the advent of e-commerce platforms selling them at lucrative prices. Web shopping portals account for over 25 per cent of the fake luxury goods market in India.The size of counterfeit luxury industry in India is currently about 5 per cent of the overall market size of Indias luxury industry which currently is worth over $14 billion. With a share of about 7 per cent, fake luxury products account for over $22 billion of the global luxury industry worth about $320 billion.

Luxury counterfeits are not a new phenomenon, but with technological advances and sophisticated new ways to reach consumers, the business is increasing rapidly.

Historically, luxury counterfeits were often shipped in large cargo containers and passed through numerous middlemen before reaching the final consumers. However, now counterfeit sellers set up online presences on auction or marketplace sites and ship luxury counterfeits directly to consumers. They also use the internet and social media tools to generate web traffic and to divert consumers to rogue e-commerce websites selling their goods which often have the same look and feel as the brand owners site.



Can you share with our readers a little on the two measures of luxury that you have coined?

Luxury is all about the dazzle. And dazzle is all about perception. So, there is no universal Luxe Quotient or Luxe Factor, as I will like to name them.Luxe Quotient or LQ is a unique measure for capturing the longing and desire for a luxury brand. It has the ability to capture the relative dazzle factor between two or more comparable brands from the perspective of a customer.

The difference in dazzle is captured by Luxe Factor. This is from the perspective of the brand towards the customer. So it will be the same brand and different customers and their dazzle factors.

What do you think is the future of luxury in India?

With the ebbing Chinese luxury story, most luxury goods providers  including worlds biggest luxury group LVMH (Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE)  are shifting focus to the growing luxury consumer base in India, which is poised to grow at 25% from 2013 till 2018, and is likely to touch $18-billion mark from the ongoing level of $14 billion.



You are a communicator with a Tata group company, you have acted in a film that was screened at Cannes Film Festival, you are doing your PhD, where did you get time to write?

I have been a journalist for over a decade, writing is my passion. So I always have time for writing. Writing a book, however, has been a different ballgame altogether. It was a great experience, especially when it is on a topic that I love  luxury. God has been kind and so I have got opportunities to do things that I love. Cannes Film Festival has been a great experience. My second movie will be out later this year. Need your wishes. My role as Head of Corporate Communications and Branding for mjunction, a Tata group company, has been a learning experience for me. As the brand custodian of the largest B2B e-commerce company in India, it is a challenge that I look forward to embracing every morning.
Akbul: An Afghan official says a district chief has been shot and killed in western Nimroz province by gunmen riding on a motorcycle.

Ahmad Arab, spokesman for the provincial governor, says Aqa Mohammad Fazeli was on his way to work when he suddenly came under attack by two gunmen this morning. The killing took place in Zaranj, the provincial capital.

Arab added that Fazeli was the chief in remote Chakhansor district in Nimroz and also a tribal leader in the province.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, but the Taliban have stepped up their attacks against Afghan security forces as well as government officials across the country.
Lahore: Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed and his four aides will have to celebrate Eid in custody as Pakistan's Lahore High Court on Monday deferred its verdict till July 3 in their detention case.

"As a division bench headed by Justice Abdul Sami Khan today held the court to announce the verdict a government law officer requested it (bench) to defer it as the deputy attorney general was not present in the court," a court official told reporters outside the courtroom.

Accepting the government's request, the bench deferred the announcement of its verdict in Saeed's house arrest case till July 3, the official said.

The court official gave no further reason for deferring the announcement. "The bench will again sit on July 3 and announce the verdict in Saeed's case," he added.

The court had reserved the decision on June 7 after the Punjab government law officer submitted a reply and Saeed's counsel advocate A K Dogar completed his arguments.

The court had declared that it would announce the verdict in Saeed's detention case on June 19.

Saeed and his four close aides - Abdullah Ubaid, Malik Zafar Iqbal, Abdul Rehman Abid and Qazi Kashif Hussain - have been detained on the instruction of the federal government for their alleged involvement in activities prejudicial to peace and security of the country, says the Punjab government.

The government had also submitted the report of the judicial review board on the detention of Saeed and his aides.

In his arguments, Dogar said the government did not produce the petitioners before the judicial review board prior to expiry of their detention period (April 30) and extended their detention on its own.

He said extending detention period without the mandatory approval of the review board is "illegal".

Dogar said the government detained the petitioners to "please India and America only".

He said the courts of the country in past had declared detention of the JuD chief illegal as government failed to prove its charges against him. He prayed to the court to set aside the detention of the petitioners for being unconstitutional.

Earlier, the three-member review board headed by Justice Ejaz Afzal Khan of the Supreme Court had reserved its verdict on the detention of Saeed.

Saeed last month had appeared before the review board and told it that he had been detained by the Pakistani government in order to "stop him for raising voice for Kashmiris".

The federal interior ministry rejected his arguments and told the board that "Saeed and his four aides have been detained for spreading terrorism in the name of Jihad".

On April 30, detention of Saeed and his four aides was extended by the Punjab government for another 90 days under preventative detention under 11 EEE (I) and 11D of Anti- Terrorism Act 1997.

The Punjab government on January 30 had put these five under house arrest in Lahore under the Second Schedule of Anti-Terrorism Act 1997.
Moscow: Russia's defence ministry on Monday condemned the US downing of a Syrian plane and said it would now track all coalition flights west of the Euphrates river, while suspending its use of a military hotline for avoiding incidents in Syrian airspace.

Moscow accused the US of failing to use the established communication hotline to warn Russia about the downing of the plane on Sunday.

"The command of the coalition forces did not use the established communication channel for preventing incidents in Syrian airspace," the defence ministry said.

As a result, it now "ends cooperation with the American side from June 19 based on a memorandum for prevention of incidents and ensuring safety of air flights during operations in Syria, and demands a careful investigation by the US command" of the downing.

"Any flying objects, including planes and drones of the international coalition, discovered west of the Euphrates river will be tracked as aerial targets by Russia`s air defences on and above ground," it said.

An American fighter jet shot down the Syrian warplane which the US-led coalition said had attacked its allies, the Syrian Democratic Forces, fighting against the Islamic State group.

In April, Russia had also said it was suspending its use of the Syria hotline after US forces struck a Syrian airbase, but the communications had continued.
Beijing: A Chinese scholar has warned Vietnam not be incited by the US and Japan against Beijing.

Li Kaisheng, a research Fellow at the Institute of International Relations in Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, said Vietnam's frequent talks with the US and Japan about the South China Sea should not be viewed as benign.

"Japan's help to upgrade Vietnamese Coast Guard vessels is aimed at inciting Vietnam to confront China at sea," he said in a commentary in the state-run Global Times.

"It is good to widen your circle of friends. However, if the intention is to guard against your neighbours, then it will create destabilizing factors in the future. This is true of interpersonal relationships, and also international ones," he said.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc recently visited Japan when both sides signed a total of 43 foreign direct investment agreements valued at over $22 billion.

Political security also formed an integral part of the meeting as both expressed "deep concerns" over the developments in the South China Sea. Japan pledged to provide $350 million to help upgrade Vietnamese Coast Guard vessels and their patrol capability.

Prior to his visit to Japan, Phuc and US President Donald Trump issued a joint statement to enhance their comprehensive partnership. The US transferred a Hamilton-class cutter to the Vietnam Coast Guard.

Li said: "The involvement of countries from outside a region should not act to destabilize regional cooperation."
YEREVAN, JUNE 17, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan attended the opening ceremony of Softconstruct Yerevan Office on June 17, press service of the Presidents Office told Armenpress.

The company operates in information technologies field, in particular, it is engaged in diversified programming.

Established in UK, the company currently has offices in 14 countries of the world and has more than 500 partners.

Accompanied by Mayor of Yerevan, Minister of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies and company founders, the President toured the newly-opened Office which is located in Yerevans Nork-Marash administrative district, got acquainted with the investments carried out, the jobs, services provided and the company development programs.

The President was introduced on the opportunities of the companys 2nd building which is being renovated for expanding the programming offices, as well as the upcoming programs.

During the visit Serzh Sargsyan also got acquainted with the activity directions of founders of Softconstruct Yerevan Office Badalyan brothers group of companies. It was reported that the companies included in the group currently have 2203 employees, and it is planned to increase that number by 300 in 2017.

Thereafter, President Sargsyan visited PicsArt company which is located in Ajapnyak administrative district adjacent to TUMO Center for Creative Technologies.

Established in US in 2011, the company currently has offices in San Francisco, Tokyo and Yerevan.Accompanied by company co-founders and representatives of the field, President Serzh Sargsyan toured the office, got acquainted with the companys achievements over the past three years, as well as the upcoming development programs and goals from which PicsArt highlights the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning fields. According to the company representatives, it will boost Armenias IT field and will contribute to increasing competitiveness, as well as attracting foreign investments and creating new Armenain start-up companies.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. According to tourism officials, there is need to include the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory in tourism and travel packages.

Areg Mikayelyan, director of the Byurakan Observatory and Mekhak Apresyan, first deputy chairman of the state tourism committee told ARMENPRESS joint work of astronomers and tour guides and complex services will contribute to including the observatory in travel packages.

The observatory doesnt have contracts with tourism agencies yet, but we are already taking certain steps. We are establishing contacts with companies, we invite them to conferences on scientific tourism and organize visits to numerous locations. We have also proposed to make joint packages, Mikayelyan said.

Although the observatory chief says they dont yet have contracts with tourism agencies, Apresyan said the observatory is indeed included in some packages already. According to him, one of the reasons behind not including the observatory in some packages is the absence of complex services.

We must design the service packages better, at the same time contribute to the representations of them and the observatory in the market and work with travel agencies. We must be able to offer complex services to tourists by also working with hotel businesses of Byurakan, Apresyan said.

On the other hand, the director of the observatory says the reason that the facility isnt included in tourism packages is the problem of travel guides. An ordinary guide cannot present the scientific institution decently, even if he learns the text by-heart. While the astronomer cannot present it as eloquently and beautifully like a guide, he said.

According to him they havent yet reached a conclusion on this issue, nevertheless trainings were held for travel guides last year, and similar trainings are planned for the future as well.

Article by Anna Grigoryan
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. All countries should respect Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity and coordinate all actions on the Syrian ground with Damascus, Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on June 19, reports TASS.

As for what is happening on the ground in Syria, we proceed from the assumption that it is necessary to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity in Syria. Therefore, any actions on the ground, and there are many participants there, including those who carry out military operations, should be coordinated with Damascus, Lavrov said as quoted by TASS.

The minister said Moscow calls on Washington to ensure coordination in the work on Syria and respect the countrys sovereignty.

We call on the United States and all others who have their forces or their advisers on the ground (in Syria) to ensure coordination in our work, the minister said, adding that the de-escalation zones are a possible option to move forward jointly.

I invite everyone to avoid unilateral actions, respect Syrias sovereignty and join our common work, which has been agreed with the Syrian government, Lavrov said.

Earlier the Syrian government announced the US coalition forces downed the aircraft of Syrian air force.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian government presents its 2017-2022 sustainable development action plan, the core of which is large scale reforms. The program was approved by the government at the June 19 extraordinary Cabinet meeting and will be further submitted to the Parliament.

The program is based on the Presidents address, the pre-election programs of both the Republican Party and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation and the coalition memorandum principles, as well as advanced public ideas.

The action plan aims at giving substantial, but at the same time institutional and perspective solutions to those diagnoses which the government published in early 2017.

The Cabinet aims at guaranteeing the security of the country, as well as economic progress  the necessary objective for successfully solving this top issue, by reflecting it in both short-term and medium-term perspectives.

The program aims at ensuring peace by strong defense through sustainable economic growth, inclusive growth for all sectors of the public, active involvement in public life for all Armenian citizens.

The program mentions that Armenia must become the center for unification of all Armenians, its opportunities, and use of entire potential.

The center of these reforms is the citizen of Armenia, while the guarantee of success of the program  the proactive participation of the citizens in the suggested reforms.

These reforms will ensure the opportunities of the Armenian citizens to live a prosperous life and guarantees of sustainable expansion of capabilities. According to the government, it is important to ensure the smooth transition to a parliamentary administration system  in accordance to the Constitution.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. This year the first round of Diaspora Ministrys Ari Tun (Come back home) program is attended by 163 children from 7 countries, reports Armenpress.

During the opening ceremony of the first round of the program, Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan told reporters that this year as well many people are taking part in the program.

I thanked a lot to our families who opened their doors and hosted the kids. We will do everything in the Ari Tun camp so that the children from different countries will become friends. We will do our utmost for them to constantly love Armenia and maintain ties with the homeland, the minister said.

According to her, the number of children who want to take part in the program for the 2nd time is a lot, however, the ministry is unable to host them for the 2nd time. The program allows them to arrive in Armenia next year on their own and spend their summer holidays here, she said.

Hranush Hakobyan stated that till now 7000 people participated in the program. We already have marriages, as well as hundreds of children who come and study in our universities, there are also children who work here and we have kids whose meeting place is always in the homeland, the minister added.

The program is being carried out since 2009. Every year it is being held at 8 stages, this year it will continue from June 18 to August 26. Diaspora-Armenian youth visits Armenias historical and beautiful sites, meets with state, public and cultural figures.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The Belgian government and the city of Mechelen will host a Global Conference on Cities and Migrants on November 16 and 17, the Belgian Foreign Ministry said, Interfax reported.

The conference will be held with cooperation of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UN Habitat and the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) organization.

The statement of the Foreign Ministry says the conference organizers plan to put an emphasis on the importance of orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration.

This conference comes at a time when there is an all-time high of more than 250 million migrants worldwide. This number of migrants is expected to continue to grow. If we want this evolution to contribute to human development, we need coherent and inclusive approaches, the Ministrys statement quotes Alexander De Croo, Belgiums Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Development Cooperation.
Mumbai/ Kolkata, June 19 (IBNS): The Big Little Book Award (BLBA), an award to honour contribution of Indian authors and illustrators to childrenas literature, is inviting nominations for its second edition.

Every year, BLBA selects one Indian language to award an author or illustrator. The award has selected Bengali as the language of 2017. Authors writing extensively for children in Bengali, with significant contribution to literature are eligible for nomination, whereas awards for illustration are not language-specific.

The inaugural awards were announced at the Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest in 2016.

Internationally renowned author-illustrator Madhuri Purandare received the Author award for her contribution to Marathi childrens literature, while illustrator and cartoonist Atanu Roy received the Illustrator award.

It is the first time in India that creators of picture books  both the author and the illustrator, have an award to vie for. Recognition of this as mainstream literature and artwork as a distinct genre has been an area of extreme neglect in our country. Hopefully this award will go a long way to change that, said Roy.

On this years choice of Bengali as the language for authors, Swaha Sahoo, who leads the Tata Trusts child literacy initiative Parag, said, Bengali literature has a rich history with eminent people writing and illustrating for adults and children. Unlike many other Indian languages there are still many illustrious names writing for children. Some of the contemporary work that has come out in the recent years is also noteworthy.

The award aims to recognise and celebrate authors and illustrators who have created outstanding childrens books in Indian languages. The award seeks to gift every child the joys of reading and reading good books in multiple Indian languages, while encouraging new authors and illustrators to contribute to the field.

In 2016, the Tata Trusts Parag initiative conducted a series of events across Maharashtra. This included book discussions with children in libraries, workshops with children by childrens authors and illustrators, and panel discussions with students of art and design and story reading sessions.

This year, Parag initiative will start the Big Little Book Talk, which will be a series of talks across the country on childrens literature in India, around rich history of Bengali childrens literature, role of illustrations in childrens books to name a few. BLBA will also collaborate with major literary festivals to advocate for childrens literature in Indian languages and create platforms for childrens authors and illustrators to present their work and thoughts.

The events that were conducted in Pune and Mumbai with children as part of the Big Little Book Award helped spread the word about the award and also Marathi literature. But more people should know about this. Since Bengali is the language this year, the events should not be limited to West Bengal. Let children across India read translations of Bengali authors if possible, said last years winner Madhuri Purandare.

Inaugural edition of Big Little Book Award in 2016 had excellent response and generated immense interest in the importance of quality childrens books in Indian languages, and the role of authors and illustrators in creating lifelong interest in reading for pleasure. We hope the 2017 edition helps reach many more children, parents, and teachers while celebrating the talent by recognizing an author and an illustrator who have made significant contribution in pushing boundaries of childrens literature in India, said Amrita Patwardhan, Head of Education, Tata Trusts.

The Big Little Book Award award has been instituted by the Parag initiative of Tata Trusts and Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai Litfest. It recognises authors and illustrators who have written and illustrated stories that connect with children, make them laugh, encourage them to think, introduce them to new ideas and cultures, are inclusive and balance the traditional with the contemporary. More information can be accessed at http://biglittlebookaward.in/

The nomination process will close July 15.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The Parliament of Armenia convenes another session on June 21, press service of the Parliament told Armenpress.

Guided by the point 8 of the Article 33 of Parliaments Rules of Procedure Constitutional law, Speaker of the Parliament announces the regular session of the Parliaments first sitting will be held on June 21, at 10:00 in order to discuss the issue of approving the Governments program, reads the Parliaments statement.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. Armenia and Cyprus will expand the cooperation on Diaspora-related affairs, Fotis Fotiou, the Cypriout Presidential Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Overseas, said after the signing ceremony of Memorandum of Understanding between his Office and Armenias Diaspora Ministry in Yerevan on June 19, reports Armenpress.

He added that the two countries are linked with historical ties.

We have good cooperation in all spheres. Numerous mutual visits are being held both from Cyprus and Armenia at presidential, ministerial and parliament speakers level which prove how good relations we have. Today I am here to discuss the prospects on further expanding the cooperation on diaspora affairs. We have two major Diaspora communities, and I think we need to unite our efforts for better cooperation and intensify it, Fotis Fotiou said.

The Cypriot delegation in Armenia will be hosted by President Serzh Sargsyan and Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan. The guests will also visit the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute and the Matenadaran.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The process of implementing investment programs in Armenias provinces and communities has been launched aimed at reducing disparities of socio-economic development and community development programs of provinces and communities, Armenpress reports citing the governments 2017-2022 action program which has been approved by the Cabinet and submitted to the Parliament.

According to the program, a package of legislative reforms has been developed within the frames of Clean Armenia program aimed at solving the existing problems in waste management field, as well as an action plan has been prepared the consistent implementation of which will result in changing todays reality.

In the upcoming 5 years the government plans to develop and implement the provincial strategies and operational program in territorial administration field, to initiate socio-economic development programs at the expense of state funds and other financial sources, to assess the impact and effectiveness of policies developed by the executive bodies.

In particular, by the end of 2017 it is planned to adopt the 2017-2025 development strategies of provinces and the first operational program by attaching importance to state-community-private sector partnership mechanisms, to install a system of provincial development funds until the end of 2017, to form the funds at the expense of the state budget, grants and other funding sources. By the end of 2017, various programs will be implemented jointly with the EU and UNDP aimed at ensuring economic development in provinces.

In 2018-2022 the government will continue the social and economic assistance programs in bordering communities. The government mainly subsidizes the bordering community residents consumed electricity, gas, water bills, and fully compensates land and property taxes.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. President Serzh Sargsyan sent a congratulatory letter to Peoples Artist of Armenia, composer, conductor Yervand Yerznkyan on June 19, on the occasion of his 70th birthday, wishing him good health and new achievements in his career, press service of the Presidents Office told Armenpress.

You are a devotee of the Armenian musical art, and the significant pages of the history of Armenian jazz have been written thanks to your dedicated work for decades.

Your works are loved and appreciated by music lovers, and your work in the Public Radios symphonic orchestra for many years, as well as the pedagogical activity summarize your image as an artist and intellectual, reads the Presidents congratulatory letter.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. President Serzh Sargsyan on June 19 sent a congratulatory letter to Peoples Artist of Armenia, dance teacher Suren Gyanjumyan on the occasion of his 85th birthday, press service of the Presidents Office told Armenpress.

The President wished him health, happiness and good luck.

You had significant contribution to the development and spreading of the Armenian folk dancing. Through your dedication and hard work for over decades you have formed dance groups which performed excellently in Armenian and foreign stages.

Created by unique style your performances are perfect examples displaying the features of Armenian folk dancing.

Your pedagogical activity is also appreciated thanks to which numerous talented young people received a ticket for great stage, reads the Presidents congratulatory letter.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. 20 political parties of both Armenia and Artsakh adopted a final resolution with the results of the 3rd Conference of Armenian Political Parties.

Below is an excerpt of the resolution.

We strictly condemn Azerbaijans policy of violating the ceasefire in the line of contact, which is also accompanies by human losses, at the same time we emphasize that the responsibility of further escalation of the situation falls entirely on Azerbaijans military-political leadership.

We reaffirm our conviction that the exclusive guarantee of the further development of Armenia and Artsakh is a unified security system, and especially the Armenian Armed Forces.

We note that Azerbaijans Anti-Armenian policy and threats of solving the NK conflict by military force seriously harm the negotiations process, the possibility of peaceful solution and regional security.

We highlight the necessity of solving the NK conflict based on the self-determination right and the direct participation of the Republic of Artsakh in the negotiations process.

We call on the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and the international community to be consistent in the introduction of investigative mechanisms and incident studies in the line of contact, condemn Azerbaijani leaderships destructive policy, by refusing ineffective leveling approaches, and give targeted assessments and use suppressive mechanisms against the aggressor.

Free Fatherland Party

Freedom Party

National Unity Party

National Revival Party

Democratic Party of Artsakh

Communist Party of Artsakh

Armenakan Party of Artsakh

Republican Party of Artsakh

Prosperous Armenia Party

Bright Armenia Party

Republican Party of Armenia

Armenian Revolutionary Federation

Communist Party of Armenia

Christian-Democratic Union of Armenia

Armenian Pan-National Movement

Republic Party

Powerful Fatherland Party

United Liberal National Party

Constitutional Right Union

Civil Contract Party
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The soldier of Artsakh who was wounded as a result of Azerbaijani June 16 provocation is in moderate condition, Director of the Ophthalmological center after S.V. Malayan, professor Alexander Malayan told Armenpress, adding that the eyes of soldier suffered injuries.

The professor said the soldier has already undergone an eye surgery and he needs long-term treatment.

If there are no further complications, it is expected the boys eyesight will be recovered, the doctor said. The soldier is under constant control of specialists.

Defense Ministry spokesperson Artsrun Hovhannisyan informed that the next soldier is in critical but stable condition in the Muratsan Central Clinical Military Hospital.

The Azerbaijani armed forces violated the ceasefire regime on June 16 at 18:05 using antitank grenade launchers, as a result of which 3 Artsakh Defense Army soldiers, Arayik Matinyan, 1997, Vigen Petrosyan, 1997, and Vardan Sargsyan, 1997, received fatal wounds. Later it was reported that two wounded soldiers have been transported to hospital.


YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. Since the beginning of the Syrian War, 22 thousand Syrian-Armenians have re-located to Armenia.

Levon Antonyan, head of the Near and Middle East Armenian community department of the Diaspora ministry told a press conference that the Armenian government has adopted a warm and hospitable approach for them.

They are not treated as refugees. The procedure of obtaining citizenship has been maximally facilitated. The majority of them have received Armenian citizenship. They have been given the opportunity of employment and being engaged in educational and cultural activities. We took numerous steps for them to be integrated easily. The government, international organizations and NGOs have done everything for healthcare services to be accessible, tuition fees in universities to be compensated; their accommodation needs have been realized. We have assisted businesses by providing privileged loans, Antonyan said.

He said that since the situation in Aleppo was stabilized, certain families have arrived in Armenia as well, nearly 75 people have relocated to Yerevan in 2017. There are some Syrian-Armenians who return to Aleppo from Armenia, however these are individual cases and no flow is seen.

George Barseghyan, president of the Coordinating Center for Syrian-Armenians Issues NGO said one of the priority issues for the Syrian-Armenians is employment.

Syrian-Armenians are working in Armenia, however their salary is the same as in Syria, and this, of course is troubling, however, despite the difficult conditions many prefer to stay here, he said.

According to him, the professional skills of the Syrian-Armenians are well developed, they know the language and have the possibility to manifest themselves in all sectors. They are mainly engaged in the service sector, they are running their own restaurants or bistros. They work in the arts, science and healthcare sectors.

Sofi Nersisyan, head of the refugee department of Mission Armenia NGO said they are working with refugees from many countries. And this year, the number of their main stakeholders has reached thousand.

They are our Syrian-Armenian countrymen, as well as refugees from Azerbaijan, Iraq and Iran. We also work with people displaced from Talish and other parts of Artsakh, as result of the April War. We give social-healthcare services, provide care, humanitarian assistance, financial support, partial compensation of apartment rent, provision of social accommodation. I have to mention that the refugees mostly have accommodation and employment problems, she said.
YEREVAN, 19 JUNE, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 19 June, USD exchange rate down by 0.69 drams to 481.08 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 0.14 drams to 538.42 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.06 drams to 8.29 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.99 drams to 615.97 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price down by 14.69 drams to 19417.37 drams. Silver price down by 1.92 drams to 259.23 drams. Platinum price up by 10.50 drams to 14276.11 drams.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June, Armenpress was informed from the press service of the OSCE. The main purpose of the Co-Chairs visit was to discuss the position of the Sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (28 April) as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone.

The Co-Chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan (10 June) and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku (19 June). In both capitals, they also held consultations with the Foreign and Defence Ministers. The Co-Chairs traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh (12 June) to meet with the de-facto authorities, and visited a number of territories around Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Zangelan, Kubatly, Lachin, and Kelbajar districts. In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh.

In their talks in Baku, the Co-Chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the Line of Contact, on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan. They appealed to the leadership of Azerbaijan to avoid further escalation. The Co-Chairs are sending the same message to the leadership of Armenia and de facto authorities of Nagorno-Karabakh. They encouraged the Sides to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the Line of Contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In both capitals, the Co-Chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The Presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement.

The Co-Chairs will travel to Vienna to brief the members of the Minsk Group on 3 July. They also plan to meet again soon with the Azerbaijani and Armenian Foreign Ministers to discuss modalities of the forthcoming work.
Kolkata, June 19 (IBNS) : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday left for The Hague in the Netherlands to attend a UN meet as unrest continued to rage in Darjeeling where an indefinite strike called by the Gorkha Jan Mukti Morcha entered the eight dayhe eighth day.

Before leaving for her three-day tour, Mamata appealed to everybody to maintain peace in the hills and said her ministers would monitor the Darjeeling situation and there is no need for anyone to worry, media reports said.

Three supporters of the GJM, spearheading an agitation in the hills for a separate state, were killed on Saturday as a huge crowd clashed with police.

The GJM claimed that they were killed in police firing, though police denied having opened fire.

Thirty-six policemen were injured on Saturday in clashes with the GJM supporters.

According to reports, the funeral of the three people will take place on Monday.

On Sunday, GJM supporters held a silent march in Darjeeling town carrying the bodies.



Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday urged people of Darjeeling to remain calm and peaceful.

Appealing for peace, the Union Minister tweeted:" I appeal to the people living in Darjeeling and nearby areas to remain calm and peaceful. Nobody should resort to violence."

He said violence cannot help in reaching any solution.

"In a democracy like India resorting to violence would never help in finding a solution. Every issue can be resolved through mutual dialogue," he said.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Karen Karapetyan visited on June 19 the newly opened factory of children's clothing of Alex Textile. The Head of the Executive toured in the factory, familiarized himself with the production capacity and the upcoming programs of the company. As Armenpress was informed from the press service of the Government of Armenia, the companys representatives informed that the entire production of childrens clothing is exported to Russia by the request of Detsky Mir shops network. 350 people are employed in the factory operating since January, 2017. Alex textile plans to establish 5 new factories in the upcoming 1 year creating 7.5 thousand new jobs.

Afterwards, the Premier visited Hello company engaged in textile production. Part of the companys production is realized in the domestic market, the rest is exported to Georgia, Russia and Great Britain. 100 people are employed by the company. Hello plans to double the number of its employees during the upcoming year as a result of new investments.

The Premier highlighted the development and expansion of the textile production in Armenia and noted that there is huge potential for that. PM Karen Karapetyan discussed with the heads of the companies a range of issues concerning to the upcoming investment projects, expansion of the factories and mechanisms of government assistance.
YEREVAN, JUNE 19, ARMENPRESS. Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia Ara Babloyan received on June 19 the delegation led by Commissioner for Humanitarian and Foreign Affairs of the President of the Republic of Cyprus Fotiu Fotis.

As Armenpress was informed from the press service of the parliament of Armenia, greeting the delegation, Ara Babloyan highly assessed the existing political dialogue between Armenia and Cyprus. He dais, The parliamentary relations between Armenia and Cyprus have entered into a new phase during the recent years thank to joint efforts and today there an excellent inter-parliamentary cooperation today.

The Speaker of the National Assembly expressed gratitude to the friendly people of Cyprus for extend a helping hand to the Armenians who survived the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and for recognizing and condemning the Armenian Genocide in 1975, becoming the first European country to do so. According to Ara Babloyan, Armenia and Cyprus have always supported each other in the issues concerning to the settlement of Nagorno Karabakh conflict and the Cyprus issue.

The Speaker of the parliament of Armenia hoped that the issues facing Cyprus will receive a just and legal solution.

Ara Babloyan also referred to the mutual support of Armenian and Cyprus parliamentary delegations in international organizations, highlighting the cooperation also on that platform.

Commissioner for Humanitarian and Foreign Affairs of the President of the Republic of Cyprus Fotiu Fotis thanked for the reception, noting that the two countries have a lot of historical similarities and ancient culture on which the friendship of the peoples is based.

Fotiu Fotis also touched upon the Armenian community in Cyprus, which, in his words, has a great role in the strengthening and developing friendly relations with Armenia. He also mentioned that the two states should deepen cooperation in economic, cultural and spiritual domains, struggling together for the international recognition of the Armenian Genocide and the solution of the problems facing the two countries.
OTTAWA, CanadaZumioa new pleasure product that bring orgasms to a new level, thanks to its Spiro Tipwill soon be available in Europe from EroPartner.

Zumio was born out of frustration when a busy, single mother wanted to have an orgasm in less than a minute. She wanted more than the available toys on the market that used sometimes irritating vibrations and were too big for specific pinpointing sensitive areas. Female designers solved this problem and invented Zumio. Many prototypes and years of testing later, Zumio will now be available in Europe in August. The expectation is that soon the whole of Europe will use this unique product.

Zumio is totally different than any other vibrator, due to its sensational Spiro Tip that whirls around in circles and applies unique pulses to one small area at the time. Women have always known that the circular motion of their fingertip gives them the greatest pleasure. Zumio makes that movement even better, so you can experience whole new sensations in a new way.

The lightweight and non-vibrating handle makes Zumio easy to hold in one hand, so you can use Zumio solo or with your partner in many positions, even while making love. Zumios small, oscillating tip penetrates with a massaging effect that reaches deep while being gentle on the surface nerve-ending in the sensitive areas of the pleasure zones.

Zumio boasts eight speed settings to adjust intensity, is whisper quiet, is rechargeable by USB, is waterproof and is made from medical-grade silicone and ABS plastics.

For more, visit EroPartner.com.
Meantime, U.S. Supreme Court order makes 2017 special legislative election even more unlikely



From left, Superior Court judges Todd Burke, Jesse Caldwell, and Jeffery Foster hear arguments in March in a lawsuit filed by Gov. Roy Cooper arguing that legislation passed during a December special session violates the separation of powers. (CJ photo by Don Carrington)

A state Superior Court panel and the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday dealt Gov. Roy Cooper and his political allies two setbacks. They face new challenges trying to force the General Assembly both to scrap an election enforcement board it created in April and to hastily redraw legislative districts in time to hold a special election this fall.The Supreme Court order , signed by Chief Justice John Roberts (who consulted with the other members of the court), denies a request plaintiffs made last week to speed up the redistricting process. As a result, the calendar may run out before an election could be scheduled this year.The high court ruled June 5 that 28 legislative districts enacted in 2011 were unconstitutional racial gerrymanders. It ordered the General Assembly to draw new districts in time for the regularly scheduled 2018 election. But it rebuffed a request from the plaintiffs to force an election this year in the districts affected by new maps.The three-judge federal panel handling the redistricting lawsuit last Friday said it wanted to rule promptly on the plainitffs' request for a speedy resolution. It asked the plaintiffs, the state, and the State Board of Elections to respond as quickly as possible.This week, Cooper said any budget passed by the current General Assembly would be unconstitutional. The North Carolina NAACP urged the legislature to stop doing other business until it drew new maps and held new elections. Such a delay would take months and could leave the state without a budget until the new members were seated - and the General Assembly had no intention of doing so.Roberts asked attorneys for the parties to respond by Tuesday to the plaintiffs' request. Former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, on behalf of the General Assembly, asked Roberts to allow the trial court its normal 25 days to deal with the matter. Rushing the issue could causeClement said.Even if new maps were in place, and received immediate court approval, the state would have to open a filing period for candidates, hold primary elections, and allow time for absentee ballots to be mailed and returned.The high court's order makes the timetable for a 2017 election even tighter.Meantime, the state court rejected a request from Cooper to block a law enacted in April merging the State Board of Elections with the Ethics Commission into a single board while a lawsuit challenging the new board was on appeal.The court initially gave Cooper a victory when he challenged a similar board created in December. The judges said the first board violated separation of powers because it granted the governor too little authority to appoint members.A couple of weeks ago, the Superior Court panel tossed out Cooper's most recent lawsuit. It challenged the new N.C. Bipartisan State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement. The board created in April has eight members, split between Republicans and Democrats, all appointed by the governor.Cooper has not appointed any members to the new board, leaving it vacant even though the federal redistricting panel asked the board to weigh in on the lawsuit asking for a special election this year.
The Democrat leadership has made constant, profound and incredible pronouncements that one's supportive vote for Republicans is tantamount to surrendering Democracy forever. Understanding their sincere thinking in their extreme position: How will you still vote on this election day?

Democrat; because the continuance of this Democracy from the existential threat of extreme Republicans is paramount.

Republican; the process of having a choice is the democratic method within what so called "Democracy" does exists.
Cloud-based services are a relatively new field for many businesses across the globe. Regardless, many organizations are rushing to adopt these solutions. There are some key reasons why. First, these cloud services help relieve internal expenses by offloading the need to adopt, upgrade and maintain the necessary IT infrastructure. Second, these solutions provide clients with affordable access to cutting-edge computetechnology. This enables businesses to remain competitive, even if they lack the same IT resources and budgets their competitors enjoy. Third, cloud-based services provide organizations with an agile and flexible infrastructure that easily scales with growth and provides access to global regions some businesses simply couldnt access before.

Still, extracting the most value out of cloud services takes time, talent and experience. Organizations who were early cloud adopters have a head-start, and enjoy a level of cloud maturity their competitors do not. However, this maturity gap is closing. A recent report by IT research firm Radar, produced on behalf of VMware and Tieto, examines how this gap is closing amongst businesses in three Scandinavian countries  Finland, Norway and Sweden.

The report explores how cloud maturity has changed in these three countries within a two-year period from 2015 to 2017. The change over this short period has been remarkable. For example, strategic maturity across these countries grew by 33 percent while operative maturity grew by 13 percent. Businesses previously labeled as immature in cloud dropped by 15 percent. Only 11 percent of organizations surveyed remain in the immature organizations category.

What Makes for Maturity in the Cloud

But what makes for a cloud mature organization? There are no hard and fast definitions of a cloud mature organization, but there are indicators. For example, the survey found that proficient and mature organizations tend to have a well-defined cloud strategy, and acquire and use cloud services to buttress that strategy. Organizations also tend to deploy more than one cloud service within their organization, and have a keen understanding of what each service is capable of providing. Mature organizations, too, tend to procure solutions directly in line with their strategy and are driven by development, change and innovation within their respective industries.

In 2015, the share of organizations using cloud technologies in Finland, Norway and Sweden were 69, 46 and 60 percent, respectively. Those figures changed to 85, 75 and 83 percent, respectively, in early 2017. Other significant changes took place over the two-year period. Organizations in the three countries diversified their cloud services, readily blending private, public and hybrid clouds in complex and business-critical areas. One type of cloud, the public cloud, grew as the favored model amongst the three countries, and now make up 51 percent of total cloud spend in Finland, Norway and Sweden. Radars report suggests this trend will continue for the next few years.

Clouds Perfect Storm

Radar found there are number of factors contributing to this rapid growth in cloud use across the surveyed countries, each dynamically interacting with one-anther in the perfect storm of cloud adoption. The first is competition from the global market. The low cost of skilled labor in APAC countries puts pressure on countries, particularly those in Scandinavia, with high-cost economies. This pushed many Scandinavian businesses to find new ways to remain competitive, particularly by cutting cycle times through digital initiatives.

These digital initiatives, too, were pursued right as several digital breakthroughs made their way into the market. Cognitive platforms, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality and more innovations are enabling  or on the cusp of enabling  new means of discovering and communicating new business processes and models while perfecting old processes. This explosion of digital initiatives will likely continue for some time, encouraging competition and innovation in the global marketplace.

Finally, the market places in these three countries experienced a rapid industrialization of their respective IT industries. Again, the global marketplace was a significant factor as businesses like Google, IBM and Amazon were able to provide smaller businesses with virtual IT infrastructures that could scale with the business. While these global cloud factories, as Radar calls them, have an outsized impact on Scandinavian IT infrastructures, regional and local players are maturing and growing by filling in the advisory and location gaps these larger players miss.

The Benefits Realized

These factors have combined and catalyzed cloud adoption in each country. The effects have been tremendous. Cloud mature organizations, which constitute 14 percent of surveyed organizations, average 21 percent lower costs in IT operations, according to Radars findings. Responding organizations also say they have a 29 percent larger share of IT spend they can dedicate to pursuing innovative solutions. Mature organizations also rate their ability to support digitalization in the core of their business 19 percent higher than others. They also rate their ability to support innovation and increase business competitiveness as being 16 percent higher than others, as well.

The benefits of industrial cloud adoption across these three countries will compound as time wears on. Skilled workers will continue to emerge and experience in exploring, pursuing and deploying flexible, agile solutions will grow. But these benefits will take time to realize. Again, only 14 percent of responding organizations are rated as cloud mature. But those who are at the mature or proficient level will find themselves more prepared and capable of accommodating and adapting to the disruptive nature of todays new digital technologies.

Interested in reading the full report? Download The Benefits of Cloud Maturity: Cloud Maturity Index 2017 today. And dont forget to join in on the conversation at Twitter and like the VMware Service Provider page on Facebook.
An Ottawa family is building a secondary school in Madagascar in hopes of preventing child trafficking in the African country.

Blake and Catherine Potter, along with their four children, are hosting garage sales, selling lemonade and making lip balms to raise money to build a school in the village of Ambatomirahavavy, Madagascar.

Their goal is to raise $5,000 to contribute to construction materials, food and school supplies for the children. The Potter family is building the school with the Madagascar Cooperative Foundation, an organization that works to end poverty in the country.

Blake Potter fell in love with the Island country during his time there as a service missionary in 2001. He saw the extreme poverty and when he returned to Canada, his wife said he couldn't get the Malagasy people out of his mind.

"We have continually had the needs of the Malagasy people tugging at our hearts over the years, and after learning about the tragedy of human trafficking occurring to many children there, we couldn't wait any longer to get involved," said Catherine Potter.

"As parents of four beautiful children, it is hard to imagine them growing up in those conditions."

Vulnerable to exploitation

A 2011 UNICEF report found 75 per cent of children don't complete anything beyond primary school.

"Those who work in the human trafficking industry know this and target the parents, offering a better life for their children," she explained.

"Sadly, the parents are often tricked to do what seems like the best they can do for their children."

Because the Potters' project focused on helping children, they're making sure their own children share the workload.

"They feel a bond and connection and we make sure they recognize how fortunate they are to be living in such a country as Canada, and to be going to school," Catherine Potter said.

She added they hope to bring their children there one day to connect with the children face to face.

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Blake Potter, an Ottawa high school teacher, will be flying to Madagascar to build the school in July.

"Yes, we all have our challenges even though we live in Canada, but typically our challenges don't have to do with the most basic necessities of life," Catherine Potter said.

"We feel we have a moral obligation to give, even if it's just a little bit, because we've been given so much just by living here."
New Delhi, June 19 (IBNS) : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met with the BJP's Parliamentary board, including most senior members of the BJP, to decide the ruling party's choice for the next President of India.

According to media reports, an announcement of the name of the party's candidate is likely to be made on Monday as the PM will leave for foreign visit in a few days from now.

BJP chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who denied reports of being in the race for Presidential candidate, were among others, present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said since the Government has not started any discussion on any name, the opposition will wait for 2-3 more days before taking its own decision.

Earlier, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury had said that if the NDA doesn't announce its candidate by Tuesday, the opposition will announce its own candidate.

It is expected that the BJP at Monday's meeting will name the candidate of its choice before the party top brass goes back to the opposition for a consensus.

Speculations are there that the Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan and Jharkhand Governor Draupadi Murmu's names are on the BJP's wishlist.

The Left Front has said if the NDA doesn't announce its candidate by Tuesday, the opposition will announce its own candidate.

However, according to political observers, the BJP is likely to spring a surprise and try to disarm the opposition with the choice of its candidate.

The names opposition is said to be considering include former Governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi, former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar.

If an election is held, the balance will be in favour of the BJP and its allies because of their number and the promise that some regional parties have made to back the candidate of the ruling coalition.

The BJP has assigned three senior ministers - Rajnath Singh, Arun Jaitley, Venkaiah Naidu - to consult with the opposition parties and the Shiv Sena, a BJP-ally.
U.S. punishes American firm after its Canadian subsidiary leases cars to Cuban embassy in Ottawa

U.S. President Donald Trump rolled back some of the key measures of his predecessor's rapprochement with Cuba Friday, making it harder for American tourists to travel to the island, and harder for American corporations to do business there.

That move was immediately met with a rebuke from Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

"We have tremendous respect and a constructive relationship with the United States, but in the matter of Cuba there's always been a certain amount of disagreement," he said at a news conference on Parliament hill with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel.

"The investments in Cuba by Canadian companies and business people, the opportunities for tourism, for trade and for mutual benefit in this relationship will certainly continue," Trudeau added.

"I don't see anything new in the dynamic between Canada and Cuba other than a continued desire to work together for mutual benefit."

But as a recent case in Ottawa illustrates, American sanctions against Cuba don't only affect Americans or American businesses.

Last week the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control announced it had reached a settlement with the American Honda Finance Corporation  the institution that finances the sale and leases of Hondas and Acuras in North America.

The civil liability settlement requires the company to hand over $87,255 US for violating the sanctions.

The American Honda Finance Corporation is based in California, and the fine will likely be paid in the U.S., but the transaction that brought it on occurred in Canada.

The cause of the dispute is a series of 13 lease agreements between Honda Canada Finance, Inc.  a majority-owned subsidiary of the American Honda Finance Corporation  and the Cuban Embassy in Ottawa.

According to a notice published by the U.S. Treasury last Thursday, the 13 leases were signed between Feb. 2011 and March 2014.

Under U.S. law, the fact that a U.S. company was a majority shareholder of Honda Canada Finance makes the transaction subject to U.S. sanctions  even though both the lessor and the lessee were in Canada.

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Interfering in Canadian business

In a statement, the Cuban government argued that the fine "not only hampers the work of Cuban diplomats in a third country, but also harms Canadian citizens and companies that maintain relations with Cuban entities."

Brittany Venhola-Fletcher of Global Affairs Canada told CBC News the sanction constitutes interference with a Canadian business transaction.

"Canada has consistently opposed the extraterritorial application of United States sanctions, which interfere with the right of Canadian companies to conduct their business in a manner consistent with international trade practice and the laws of Canada."

The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa referred CBC to the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, which did not return calls about the sanction.

It's not clear whether the Cuban Embassy in Ottawa still leases vehicles from Honda.

Backing Cuba by law

Canadian companies that have business dealings with Cuba have a tough road to navigate because complying with U.S. laws can lead them to fall afoul of Canadian laws, and vice versa.

That is because in 1992 Canada enacted the Foreign Extraterritorial Measures (United States) Order, which was passed in response to the passage of the Cuba Democracy Act in Washington the same year.

The order requires any Canadian company that is contacted by U.S. authorities responsible for enforcing sanctions to notify the Canadian federal government. The order also bars Canadian companies from complying with any U.S. law that seeks to limit their business dealings with Cuba.

A Canadian businessman who pays a fine such as the one levied on Honda could face five years in a Canadian prison as a result.

New sanctions

One new prohibition in the measures announced by Trump in Florida Friday could have particular consequences for Canadian companies that have U.S. affiliates or U.S. ownership.

They specifically prohibit all business dealings with businesses owned by the Cuban Armed Forces.

Few of the 1.3 million Canadians who vacation in Cuba are aware that many of the island's hotels are majority-owned by the Cuban military, a legacy of Cuba's former minister of defence Raul Castro  now the country's president. He was an early convert to capitalist experimentation, while his more famous brother, Fidel, was still reluctant.

Raul went into business with the funds he controlled as minister of defence, and the business he focused on was tourism.

Consequently, almost any foreign company involved in Cuban tourism is likely to have dealings with the Cuban military's enterprise group, GAESA, or one of its holding companies, such as the Gaviota Group.

Today, all are run by Raul Castro's son-in-law, Army General Luis Alberto Rodriguez Lopez-Callejas.

The El Senador resort was a joint venture between Army-owned Cubanacan and a Canadian syndicate that included former Montreal Canadiens captain Serge Savard. It was named in honour of his former Habs nickname, "Le Senateur."

Rankings compiled by the trade publication Hotel show that GAESA is the world's 34th largest hotel company with 39,383 rooms, just behind The Walt Disney Company with 39,751.

Gaviota works with numerous Canadian entities, including Sunwing Vacations, Air Canada Vacations and Transat Holidays.
This article originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Over the past few years, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and others have repeatedly sought to explain the supposedly slow pace of job creation under Gov. Scott Walker. Indeed, the governor invited this analysis after famously promising to create 250,000 new private sector jobs in first term as governor  a mathematically impossible target for a state that counted fewer than 250,000 unemployed job-seekers when he took office.

Overzealous political promises notwithstanding, Wisconsins job growth over the past six years has been extraordinarily strong. In fact, job growth has slowed recently only because Wisconsin essentially has run out people who are unemployed due to broad economic factors.

In other words, one cannot reduce a jobs deficit that no longer exists.

As background, economists consider an unemployment rate of around 4% to be full employment. Even when jobs are plentiful, roughly 4% of the workforce is temporarily transitioning between jobs at any given moment. Economists typically set aside this base level of unemployment, and look for additional joblessness that would reflect economic weakness or labor market deficiencies.

And yet Wisconsins current unemployment rate  3.2%  is even better than full employment. It is Americas 11th lowest unemployment rate, and Wisconsins second-lowest unemployment rate since the 1970s.

The recent slowdown in job growth is no mystery. It is the predictable result of a state successfully eliminating the jobs gap created by the Great Recession.

After all, the number of new jobs that can be created is limited by the number of unemployed people seeking jobs. Wisconsins total labor force has grown by just 2% over the past decade due to retiring baby boomers and modest population out-migration. This leaves virtually all net job creation to come from reducing the ranks of the unemployed.

Wisconsins excess unemployment (the number of jobless above the 4% baseline that is temporary between jobs) averaged 30,000 under Gov. Jim Doyle before soaring past 160,000 during the 2007-2009 recession. By January 2011, when Walker took office, he inherited an excess unemployment figure of 126,000, and then proceeded to reduce that level to 26,000 during his first term. This essentially reversed the recessions job losses.

Of course, at that point, job growth must slow down because the vast majority of Wisconsinites disrupted by the recession already had found new jobs, and population growth was largely stagnant. Yet excess unemployment continued plummeting to 10,000 at the end of 2015 and just 2,000 through 2016.

Then, this past January, excess unemployment fell below zero on its way to a remarkable minus-25,000 (yes, that is a negative), reflecting a 3.2% unemployment rate that somehow has fallen significantly below the 4% baseline level.

Thus, by economist standards, Wisconsin has run out of people who are jobless due to broad economic or labor market failures. Struggling job seekers always will be with us (and deserve our best job-matching efforts), yet jobs are as plentiful as they have ever been.

Critics point out that other states experienced stronger job creation in 2016. This is in large part because slower economic recoveries left those states with larger populations of unemployed job-seekers. Michigan could create more jobs than Wisconsin in 2016 because it entered the year with 49,000 excess unemployed, compared to Wisconsins 10,000. In fact, Wisconsins continued 2016 job growth was remarkable given that Midwestern states such as Illinois (138,000 excess unemployed entering 2016) and Ohio (50,000) still lost jobs last year despite outsized populations of desperate job-seekers.

Within the Midwest, only Iowa (3.1% unemployment) has matched Wisconsins success, and even that state finally ran out of excess unemployment and lost jobs in 2016.

But Wisconsin continues to create jobs, lower its unemployment rate and defy economic expectations.

Not all is rosy. Wisconsin faces persistent economic challenges such as slow wage growth, a declining manufacturing sector and problems modernizing itself for the 21st century economy.

So rather than criticizing the job creation record of a state with a scalding 3.2% unemployment rate, policy-makers should be setting their minds to the next challenge of building productive, high-paying careers for Wisconsinites of all backgrounds and skills.

Brian Riedl is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. Follow him on twitter @Brian_Riedl.

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Whole Foods customer Bethany Capels, 34, of Mendenhall, Miss., loads her Whole Foods Market purchases in her car in Jackson, Miss., Friday, June 16, 2017. Amazon is buying Whole Foods Market in a deal valued at $13.7 billion, uniting the on-line giant with the grocery store chain that touts fresh organic foods. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)

NEW YORK (AP) -- Can Amazon, the company that persuaded people to buy ever more items online, win enough of them over to having their fresh groceries arrive in an Amazon box?

Going full throttle into groceries by announcing a $13.7 billion deal for Whole Foods on Friday, Amazon gets the advantage of using the stores as mini-distribution hubs to deliver items to customers. But online delivery of groceries has been tough to pull off.

Some shoppers worry about the quality of their produce and say they're rather pick their pears themselves. Amazon, though its Prime benefits program has created strong loyalty, has a long way to go before it's a default choice in groceries as it often is for books and electronics. And shoppers may be skittish about having Amazon take over one more element of their shopping experience.

"It's funny. I was just ordering something on Amazon," said Nick Yezierski, a hotel manager who was eating breakfast outside the Whole Foods flagship store in Austin, Texas. "But I don't really buy any home items on Amazon, not anything I put in my body."

Peter Belanger of Newington, Connecticut, who was shopping at a Whole Foods in West Hartford, said he didn't think he'd be interested in groceries online. "Most of us like to see what we're buying, and it's a good store, but we just wouldn't buy online," he said. "That's something that doesn't seem to right to me, actually."

In Jackson, Mississippi, 59-year-old Deborah Sullivan says she does order some items online, but when it comes to clothes and food, she prefers to touch and feel the items. Her daughter Bethany Capels agrees and says she likes Whole Foods for the organic fruits she can serve her kids.

"Consumers want to know what they're getting and putting in their bodies," said Madeline Hurley, a senior analyst at market research firm IBISWorld. "Books are lot more homogenous," she said, noting that a hardcover Harry Potter book is the same at Amazon  though Amazon can sell it at a lower price.

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But shoppers could start to grow more comfortable buying, and Amazon sees the grocery business as a hot market because shoppers buy weekly or even more often for items they run out of. Walmart, which has the largest share of the U.S. grocery market, is ramping up its grocery services as a way to fuel online sales.

Online grocery sales are expected to increase from $71 billion this year to $177 billion in 2022, according to John Blackledge, an analyst at Cowen & Co. So there's lots of room to grow.

Amazon has been dipping its toes in groceries since it launched its Amazon Fresh delivery service a decade ago in Seattle, and expanded it to California, New York, and the Philadelphia area.

It took a different path from online competitors like Shipt, Instacart and Peapod, which use existing retailers to deliver groceries and avoid holding inventory. Amazon invested in refrigerated distribution centers to hold items. But it has been struggling to find a profitable model. Amazon also just launched two grocery pickups kiosks in Seattle that allow its Amazon Prime customers to buy online and pick things up in as little as 15 minutes instead of having them delivered.

And grocery may take a middle path, says Kimberly Scott, a portfolio manager at the Ivy Mid Cap Growth Fund, which counts Whole Foods stock as one of its biggest investments. She's skeptical that groceries will go purely online and thinks it'll be more of a hybrid model, where people use a mix of online ordering, restaurants and traditional grocery stores.

"Think about human nature and how most people deal with dinner," she said. "People don't know what they're having for dinner when they leave the office at the end of the day and don't have it in the refrigerator."

How quickly items get delivered "is going to have to be improved considerably" for customers to order something online instead of going to the prepared-foods counter at the supermarket, she said.

That was feeling of Taylor Malooly, 19, a University of Texas student at Whole Foods in Austin, who said a Whole Foods delivery service would have to be fast if he were to try it. "If there ever was a time crunch, I'd consider it," he said.

Shoppers have plenty of options. The top 10 grocery retailers plus Amazon control less than half of the market, Blackledge says, and a patchwork of several hundred grocery chains, convenience stores, dollars stores as well as mom and pop stores make up the remainder. Based on his forecasts, Amazon will likely rank as the ninth largest U.S. grocery retailer this year  though he expects it to assume third place by 2021, behind only Walmart and Kroger.

And shoppers are a picky bunch, saying they would be looking for the best prices, good quality and convenience when it comes to online food delivery.

Adrienne Anderson, at a Whole Foods in Savannah, Georgia, says she shops at Whole Foods almost exclusively for meat and fresh produce "because of the quality and selection" and because fruits and vegetables are locally sourced. The 35-year-old Army aviator, who's stationed at nearby Hunter Army Airfield, said for non-persishable items  and for other products when she's busy  she relies on the mobile app Shipt, which for $100 per year allows her to schedule home delivery of groceries from the local Publix. She thinks it's a more reasonably priced service than Amazon provides.

"It would absolutely have to come down until it's included in a Prime membership," Anderson said. "Whole Foods is expensive enough." She also praised the way Shipt allows customers to schedule delivery times to make sure they'll be home when groceries arrive.

"I don't like the thought of my fresh groceries sitting on my doorstep while I'm at work," Anderson said.

___

Associated Press reporters Jim Vertuno in Austin, Texas; Susan Haigh in West Hartford, Connecticut; Russ Bynum in Savannah, Georgia; Rogelio V. Solis in Jackson, Mississippi; and Stan Choe in New York contributed to this report.

____________

Follow Anne D'Innocenzio: http://twitter.com/ADInnocenzio
French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech during the Viva Technology conference dedicated to start-ups development, innovation and digital technology in Paris, France, June 15, 2017. REUTERS/Martin Bureau/Pool

PARISThere was a funny thing about the pep talk Frances new president gave to his economically stagnant nation at a tech conference here: how much of his advocacy for such entrepreneur-friendly policies as lower tax rates, looser labor laws and lighter regulations could have come from a Republican.

You might not expect that from a politician who has sparred so publicly with President Donald Trump on issues like climate change. But Emmanuel Macrons speech Thursday afternoon at the Viva Technology conference on his ambitions to make France a startup nation hit those notes anywaywhile also advancing policies to open the countrys doors to immigrants who want to start businesses in France.

And the results included some passages the United States could learn from.

Streamline taxes and regulations

After a tour of the show floor that saw Macron mobbed by selfie-seeking attendees, the president took the center stage to declare, France is on the way to becoming the nation of startups, and it must be successful.

That, he emphasized, will require major changes. Macron pledged to reform labor laws that limit the official workweek to 35 hours and impede firing people after two years in a job, lower the corporate tax rate and simplify regulations.

The first action of government should no longer be to control and sanction, said Macron, who worked in government as Socialist president Francois Hollandes economics minister before Mays sweeping win over National Front candidate Marine Le Pen. Hollande had similar reformist ambitions, but he did not have the massive legislative majority that Macrons new Republique en Marche party secured in Sundays parliamentary elections.

Today, those obstacles and othersfor instance, weak venture-capital fundingdiscourage many startups and push others to exile themselves. As Macron put it, too many startups have told him, Its great, weve launched things, and now to develop our innovation we have to leave the country.

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And Frances economic problems run deeper than a stunted startup ecosystem: GDP increased only .4% GDP in the first quarter, while unemployment remained stuck at 9.6%.

Macrons pledge to generate a more attractive context for the entrepreneur did include the kind of state involvement the GOP would not endorse: a 10 billion fund for innovation.

Welcome immigrants

Macron delivered most of his speech in French (in which the startup is spelled le startup), but he switched to English at the end to make a point Trump wouldnt appreciate: At a time when some people think that walls are the solution, we do think that openness is the right path.

France is backing those words with a new tech-specific visa thats good for four years, with simplified administrative possibilities, resident permits for immediate family members and work permits provided for spouses. Foreign entrepreneurs could begin applying for it Thursday.

The United States not only has no comparable offering but sends foreign students packing after they graduate from American schools. Our overall message to the rest of the world increasingly sounds like go away. Thats accentuated every time arriving international visitors see their computers and phones searched at the border or Trump tweets about the courts stalling his travel ban.

As a candidate, Trump also called for an end to the H-1B worker-visa program, although his administration is now moving to focus that job-linked program on higher-skilled immigrants.

Dont punish failure or scorn success

The most French part of Macrons speech may have been his repeated defense of what he called a right to error. France has traditionally not looked too kindly on companies failing, while in the States thats practically a bucket-list item for entrepreneurs.

I want people to be able to try and sometimes fail, Macron said.

But he also scolded his countrymen for resenting the entrepreneurs who succeed.

We like entrepreneurs, on the condition that they dont succeed too much, he said. When an entrepreneur starts to succeed too well, one is jealous, one says there is something suspicious, it is stigmatized and generally it is taxed.

Changing a countrys mindsetas Macron phrased it in English, making France a nation that thinks and moves like a startupis a lot harder than redoing its tax system or rewriting its regulations. Even if he can install that psychological-firmware upgrade, the European Unions own moves to expand online intellectual-property rights in ways that seem designed mainly to hinder American tech giants like Google (GOOG, GOOGL) may sandbag his efforts.

Green tech over old tech

Macro took another jab at Trumps agenda in declaring global warming one of Frances two major transitions after its need to embrace a startup economy. That, he emphasized, cant come at the cost of protecting jobs of the pastFrance will not cling to coal.

Trump, obviously, has different thoughts on the subject, most recently voiced when he announced that the U.S. will leave the Paris climate-change agreement (although we cant actually complete that until November of 2020) by saying he was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris.

That leaves climate-change activism in the U.S. to cities and states that have pledged to follow the Paris commitments themselves, as well as businesses pursuing their own green-tech goals which Macron invited in his speech to come to France to work on them.

(Disclosures: I moderated three panels at Viva Tech and had my travel expenses covered.)

More from Rob:

Email Rob at rob@robpegoraro.com; follow him on Twitter at @robpegoraro.
Coal usage and its importance as a source of fuel have dropped considerably over the years due to the combined impact of stringent regulation, cheap natural gas and alternate sources to generate electricity. However, thanks to President Trump, coal is set to regain some of its lost glory.

Most energy analysts downplay coal as a fuel source and are quite skeptical about its prospects. However, Trump can prove to be a game changer for the coal industry with his promised relaxation of emissions rules.

Apart from the relaxation of stringent environment legislation, coal demand also benefited from the higher price of natural gas and improvement of coal prices in the global market. Increase in steel production from Asian countries like China and Japan will pave the way for shipment of metallurgical coal.

Per a report from the World Coal Association, there are currently 861 billion tons of proven coal reserves worldwide, implying that there is enough coal to last nearly 112 years at the current rates of production. In comparison with this, proven oil and gas reserves are predicted to last around 46 and 54 years, respectively, at the current production levels.

The current availability of coal even outpaces the combined proven reserves of oil and gas. So the advantages of coal cannot be overlooked and will definitely brighten the long-term prospects of investors.

Trumps decision to walk out from the Paris Climate Agreement and repeal the Clean Power Plan should keep fossil fuel-based electricity generation afloat longer than expected.. Also, the recent Supreme Court ruling temporarily halted the implementation of the Clean Power Plan.

Lets dig a little deeper into the factors driving this industry.

Coal Dominates U.S. Power Generation: Coal is still among the major sources of fuel for generation of electricity in U.S. Per the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), total U.S. coal consumption will remain unchanged this year at 729.3 million short tons (MMst) from the 2016 level and will increase to 744.2 MMst in 2018.

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Apart from an increase in consumption of coal in electricity production, EIA forecasts prices of coal to gradually increase for electric production. The price of coal per million Btu is anticipated to increase from $2.13 per million Btu in 2016 to $2.67 per million Btu in 2017 and $2.22 per million Btu in 2018.

Not Just Electricity Generation: Electricity generation is just one use of coal in the U.S. Manufacturing plants and industries use coal to make chemicals, cement, paper, ceramics and metal products, to name a few. Methanol and ethylene, which can be prepared from coal gas, are used to make products such as plastics, medicines, fertilizers and tar.

Certain industries consume large amounts of coal. For example, concrete and paper companies burn coal, and the steel industry uses coke and coal by-products to make steel for bridges, buildings and automobiles. Per EIA consumption of coal in other sectors is expected to increase year over year in 2017 by 1.2 MMst tons to 53.7 MMst tons. Usage is expected to improve further in 2018 to 55.8 MMst tons.

Coal as Input for Steel Industry: Due to its heat-producing nature, hard coal (metallurgical or coking coal) forms a key ingredient in the production of steel. Nearly 70% of global steel production depends on coal. Since met coal is an essential ingredient for the production of steel, U.S. met-coal producers are likely to benefit from the increase in steel consumption.

Although the steel industry is expected to remain under pressure for some time, it is certainly expected to grow on the back of flourishing automotive and construction industries. A recent report by The World Steel Association predicts global steel demand to increase 1.3% to 1,535.2 Mt in 2017 and another 0.9% to 1,548.5 Mt in 2018. This definitely is a ray of hope for metallurgical coal producers and will boost prospects of metallurgical coal producers like Arch Coal Inc. (ARCH).

Demand Upsurge in Asian Countries: The increasing demand for coal in Asian economies like China and India has been a key price driver since the end of recession in 2009. We expect this trend to continue in the future, primarily owing to rising energy needs in India, China and Southeast Asian countries.

Though Asian countries also produce coal, it does not suffice to meet the growing demand in the region, resulting in regular imports. Southeast Asia has a surging demand for electricity chiefly due to their improving economies. Numerous coal-based power plants are presently under construction and more are being planned over the next few years. This will create ample export opportunities for the U.S. thermal coal producers.

MLP and Diversification: Coal-based MLPs might be a mitigating element for the ailing coal industry. One such instance is CONSOL Energy (CNX) creating CNX Coal Resources LP (CNXC), which currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Coal companies are also resorting to diversification and are on the lookout for other sources of revenue besides coal. CONSOL Energy for the past couple of years has been expanding its natural gas portfolio and lowering coal operation.

To Sum Up

Interestingly, among all other coal companies, Alliance Holdings GP, L.P. (AHGP) having a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) and Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (ARLP) having a Zacks Rank #3 seem to be operating on a different level. Both partnerships surpassed earnings estimates in three out of the last four quarters. Their performance is particularly noteworthy since most of the big names in the space were trying to survive in the same period. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

The importance of coal in the fuel source chain is far from over. For the aggressively growing and energy-hungry Asian economies, coal seems to be the most popular source of power generation, despite inroads being made by renewables.

Coal is by far the most stable source of energy. The majority of the coal consumed in the U.S. is actually produced in America, and the coal industry provides jobs to thousands of Americans. The America First approach of President Trump will help coal stocks to bounce back.

Even with the closing down of coal-fired units, coal production and consumption are set to increase in 2017 and 2018 in the U.S. This is testimony to the fact that coal will continue to be utilized in electricity generation for the foreseeable future despite increasingly stringent emission control regulations. This surely makes it a good long-term investment.

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New Delhi, June 19 (IBNS) : Few days after their unwelcome visit to Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officers on Monday knocked at the doors of Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Monday and questioned his wife in connection with an alleged money laundering case, reports said.

CBI said it was done in connection with a "preliminary enquiry" into the 4.63 crore money laundering case that dates bck to 2015-16 when Jain was a public servant.

However, accusing the Central Government of resorting to vendetta politics, Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party said in a tweet : Central Govt of BJP is misusing CBI for its vendetta politics. After Dy CM Manish Sisodia, BJPs CBI raids on Minister.

In June, the CBI had questioned Jain for a preliminary enquiry (PE) into accusations of money laundering.
NEW YORK (AP)  Wanted: 10,000 New Yorkers interested in advancing science by sharing a trove of personal information, from cellphone locations and credit-card swipes to blood samples and life-changing events. For 20 years.

Researchers are gearing up to start recruiting participants from across the city next year for a study so sweeping it's called "The Human Project ." It aims to channel different data streams into a river of insight on health, aging, education and many other aspects of human life.

"That's what we're all about: putting the holistic picture together," says project director Dr. Paul Glimcher, a New York University neural science, economics and psychology professor.

There have been other "big data" health studies, and the National Institutes of Health plans to start full-scale recruitment as soon as this fall for a million-person project intended to foster individualized treatment.

But the $15 million-a-year Human Project is breaking ground with the scope of individual data it plans to collect simultaneously, says Dr. Vasant Dhar, editor-in-chief of the journal Big Data, which published a 2015 paper about the project.

"It is very ambitious," the NYU information systems professor says.

Participants will be invited to join; researchers are tapping survey science to create a demographically representative group.

They'll start with tests of everything from blood to genetics to IQ. They'll be asked for access to medical, financial and educational records, as well as cellphone data such as location and the numbers they call and text. They'll also be given wearable activity trackers, special scales, and surveys via smartphone. Follow-up blood and urine tests  and an at-home fecal sample  will be requested every three years.

Participants get $500 per family for enrolling, plus a say in directing some charitable money to community projects.

Researchers hope the results will illuminate the interplay between health, behavior and circumstances, potentially shedding new light on conditions ranging from asthma to Alzheimer's disease.

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Their excitement comes with the responsibility of safeguarding the digital savings of a lifetime.

Protections include multiple rounds of encryption and firewalls. Outside researchers won't be able to see any raw data, just anonymized subsets limited to the information they need. They'll take nothing with them but their analyses  by hand, since the analyzing computers aren't connected to the internet, Glimcher said.

Lee Tien, a senior staff attorney at the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation , credits the Human Project researchers with taking security seriously. But he wonders whether authorities might seek to get at the information for investigations, though Glimcher maintains that the researchers could protect it from anything but major terrorism probes.

Glimcher knows The Human Project aspires boldly. In fact, its frequently-asked-questions list includes: "Is this possible? Are you crazy?"

He points to one of medicine's most storied research efforts: The Framingham Heart Study , launched in 1948. Some 15,000 residents of Framingham, Massachusetts, have been examined over the years. The initiative has fueled more than 1,200 studies and revealed that blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking were linked to heart disease risk.

"If we could be seen as having contributed to American health care and well-being and education in the United States in the way that Framingham did, but magnified a hundredfold by the tools of today's data, what a fantastic accomplishment that would be," says Glimcher.

Nancy Spinale knows what it takes to be part of an accomplishment like that.

Her parents joined the Framingham study in 1948, she in 1971 and her husband and four children since then. Now 75 and living on Cape Cod, the retired teacher still undergoes an hourslong follow-up exam and interview every couple of years.

Her loved ones have gotten some personally useful information from exams. And she's gotten the pride of seeing studies come out, with information that could help everyone's health.

"That's the 'wow' feeling," she says.
Jared Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to continue work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trumps international envoy, will arrive on Monday.

The official said Kushner and Greenblatt will hear from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and their senior advisers.

Trump made a personal appeal for peace during a visit to Israel last month. He has cast Middle East peace as the ultimate deal, putting Kushner and Greenblatt in charge of the charting the course.

In remarks in the Middle East, Trump called on both sides to put aside the pain and disagreements of the past. But he did not offer any details on how to move forward and avoided issues that have stymied all previous attempts at a peace agreement, including the status of Jerusalem, Israeli settlement construction and the Palestinians demand for a sovereign nation.

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama all tried and failed to achieve a peace deal.

The White House official  who was not authorized to speak publicly about the trip  said an agreement will take time, adding that there are likely to be many more visits by Kushner and Greenblatt to the region, as they seek common ground.

The Wall Street Journal first reported that Kushner was making the trip.

Jared Kushner is traveling to the Middle East this week to work toward a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

A White House official said the senior aide and son-in-law to President Donald Trump will arrive on Wednesday for meetings in Jerusalem and Ramallah. Jason Greenblatt, Trumps international envoy, will arrive on Monday.

Trump made a personal appeal for peace during a visit to Jerusalem last month. He has cast Middle East peace as the ultimate deal.

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama all tried and failed to achieve a peace deal.

The White House officialwho was not authorized to speak publicly about the tripsaid an agreement will take time.
Yahoo Finance is tracking Wells Fargo, Costco, Hasbro and TripAdvisor in intraday trading on Monday.

Wells Fargo (WFC)  Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) is calling for the removal of 12 Wells Fargo board members due to their roll in the banks fake account scandal, according to a letter reviewed by The Wall Street Journal that was sent by Warren to Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen. The 12 board directors named in Senator Warrens letter are John D. Baker II, John S. Chen, Lloyd H. Dean, Elizabeth A. Duke, Enrique Hernandez, Donald M. James, Cynthia H. Milligan, Federico F. Pena, James H. Quigley, Stephen W. Sanger, Susan G. Swenson and Suzanne M. Vautrinot.

Costco (COST)  Deutsche Bank downgraded Costco to hold from buy following Amazons $13.7 billion deal to acquire Whole Foods. Analyst Paul Trussell wrote in a note to clients that the Whole Foods deal is a game changer and puts Costcos membership renewal at risk for decline. Costco shares have declined about 3% over the past three months.

Hasbro (HAS)  The company has launched its first-ever gaming subscription service called Hasbro Gaming Crate. Customers will be able to pay $49.99 plus shipping to receive a collection of three board games delivered to their doorstep. Crates will ship once every three months.

TripAdvisor (TRIP)  Credit Suisse downgraded the travel site to underperform from neutral and cut its price target to $34. Analyst Paul Bieber warns that a higher 2018 television advertisement forecast could weigh on TripAdvisors business. The stock has declined about 21% since the start of the year.

For more on Mondays big stock movers, check out the Final Round, live at 4 p.m. ET, right here on Yahoo Finance.
uss george h.w. bush

A US F/A-18 took off from the USS George H. W. Bush in the Mediterranean on Sunday and shot down a Syrian Su-22 the US said had dropped bombs near US-backed forces.

The US had not shot down a manned aircraft since 1999.

The focus of the US's airpower in recent years has turned to providing air support against insurgencies or forces that do not have fighter jets of their own.

f/a 18 uss george h w bush isis

The F/A-18, the ubiquitous fighter aboard all US aircraft carriers, has seen its combat role shift almost solely to air-to-ground. In April 2016, just 3 1/2 months into a deployment, aircraft from the USS Harry Truman alone had dropped 1,118 bombs as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, then the most of any carrier during the fight against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

But pilots aboard the Bush could see more air-to-air.

On Monday, Russia said it would treat all US and US-led-coalition jets operating in Syria west of the Euphrates River as targets for its air force. Russia has a few dozen fighter and bomber jets stationed in Syria, while the US has a carrier wing aboard the Bush and a few other squadrons at the nearby Udeid and Incirlik air bases.

NOW WATCH: Theres a 'Boneyard' in Arizona where most US military planes go to die





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One analyst from Barclay believes the bidding for Whole Foods Market Inc. (WFM) may not be over. While it and Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) have a "definitive deal" at $42 a share, the Whole Foods board may have a fiduciary obligation to look at better M&A transactions. If so, the logical buyer would be Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT), the company the Whole Foods deal is meant to challenge.

According to MarketWatch:

Karen Short, analyst at Barclays, upgraded Whole Foods WFM, +0.16% to overweight, after being at equal weight for the past nine months.

Typically, shares of companies getting bought out garner the equivalent of equal weight ratings, since a merger limits their potential upside. But Short said she believes another strategic buyout bid could emerge, so she raised her stock price target to $48, which is 14.3% above Amazons bid of $42 a share, from $38.

ALSO READ: 50 Worst American Cities to Live In

Investors seemed to give Shorts call some credence, as Whole Foods stock soared 29.1% to close Friday at $42.68, or slightly above Amazons bid price.



The Delaware Court of Chancery, which is often the court that hears matters about board fiduciary responsibility, has not been entirely clear on the matter over the years. There are cases in which it has supported a seller's board that does not seek higher offers. There are cases where actions to look for better deals were expected. The hurdle in the case of Whole Foods could be whether another company will bid well above the $42 that Amazon has offered for Whole Foods. The deal also assumes Whole Foods' net debt, which makes the deal $13.7 billion.

ALSO READ: 11 Medical Conditions Aspirin Can Treat

The Whole Foods offer is nowhere near relatively recent highs for the stock. Whole Foods traded at $54 in early 2015.

Walmart's shares were beaten down by the Amazon offer. They dropped nearly 5% to $75.75. The market believes that Amazon has flanked Walmart in one of its most important sources of revenue. Grocery store operations are among the largest in most Walmart stores.

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Walmart has the financial wherewithal to buy Whole Foods. Its market cap is $227 billion. It has $7 billion in cash and cash equivalents on its balance sheet and could easily borrow billions more.

Walmart may have a hurdle of its own. Because of its huge store network, there might be antitrust considerations. However, Walmart may believe it can convince the federal government that there are enough grocery operations in the country that it will have a very modest share of market after a transaction.

ALSO READ: America's Safest Cars

Whole Foods shareholders have to approve the Amazon deal, and ultimately, if there is another offer, they may have the final decision. What shareholders would take $42, if they could get a good deal more?

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New Delhi, June 19 (IBNS): Governor of the Mexican state of Nuevo Leon Jaime Heliodoro RodrAguez CalderAn visited India from June 14-17, officials said..

During his visit to Bengaluru, the Governor met with the team of Infosys to explore a possible expansion of their operations in the state.

Indian companies in Nuevo Leon have had a distinguished role in the progress of the sectors in the region, he commented.

Infosys has maintained Development Centers in Nuevo Leon for the last 10 years, comprising one of their largest Latin American investments.

Governor Rodriguez and his delegation also met with disruptive healthcare company Uber Diagnostics to sign a project confirmation that will inaugurate their operations in Mexico.

In addition to the activities in Bengaluru, the delegation sustained business meetings in Delhi with prominent traders, heads of Mexican companies in India and Indian companies who have or are keen to have investments in Mexico, including an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

The trip concluded with a visit to the Infosys Global Education Centre Mysore, the worlds largest corporate university.

Nuevo Leon is the third state in contributions to the GDP of Mexico, and its capital, Monterrey, is the second most important city in the country, widely known for its industrial wealth.

After Jalisco, Nuevo Leon is the state with the largest IT infrastructure in the country.
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IRVINE, CA, and HERSTAL, BELGIUM - 07:00 CEST, June 19, 2017 - MDxHealth SA (Euronext: MDXH.BR), today announced that it has signed a scientific agreement with QUT bluebox, the commercialization arm of the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), to develop a liquid biopsy epigenetic assay for the early detection of oral cancer.

Oral cancer has a significant global incidence with approximately over 20,000 cases diagnosed annually in the US alone. Early detection is key to survival, but noticeable symptoms appear at a more advanced stage when there is a less favorable prognosis. Currently, there are no US screening guidelines for head and neck cancers or proven blood or saliva-based diagnostic tests.

"Our test is expected to facilitate much earlier detection of oral cancer and potentially precancerous lesions by a variety of specialties including general practioners, oncologists and dentists," said Associate Prof. Dr. Chamindie Punyadeera from QUT's School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), lead investigator on this project. "After collecting a saliva swab, samples will be sent to a lab or tested on site to determine if a patient requires clinical follow up."

The test evaluates abnormal DNA methylation changes which is an early event seen in tumor progression. Methylation of DNA is one way that cells regulate gene activity and abnormal methylation indicates a patient may have a higher risk of developing cancer.

"A simple and fast point of care test could help dentists to rule-out oral cancer while you have your dental checkup," said Dr. Jan Groen, CEO of MDxHealth. "This scientific collaboration is an opportunity for both MDxHealth and QUT to leverage existing know-how to develop a ground-breaking oral cancer test that will improve overall survival for thousands of patients."

Under the terms of the agreement, MDxHealth will collaborate with QUT to evaluate and develop the test and MDxHealth will have the first option to license the commercial diagnostics rights. Proceeds will be used to support MDxHealth's R&D pipeline for diagnostics in urologic cancers and to support further research and translational activities at QUT and IHBI.

About MDxHealth

MDxHealth is a multinational healthcare company that provides actionable molecular diagnostic information to personalize the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The company's tests are based on proprietary genetic, epigenetic (methylation) and other molecular technologies and assist physicians with the diagnosis of urologic cancers, prognosis of recurrence risk, and prediction of response to a specific therapy. The Company's European headquarters are in Herstal, Belgium, with laboratory operations in Nijmegen, The Netherlands, and US headquarters and laboratory operations based in Irvine, California. For more information, visit mdxhealth.com and follow us on social media at: twitter.com/mdxhealth, facebook.com/mdxhealth and linkedin.com/company/mdxhealth.

About QUT bluebox

QUT bluebox is Queensland University of Technology's innovation, venture and investment company. QUT bluebox helps the QUT community get their ideas and research out into the real world, and connect industry with research and new ventures to make a meaningful impact. QUT bluebox's work on this project included IP management, Go To Market Funding, licensing, industry engagement, commercialisation advice and support. For more information, visit https://www.qutbluebox.com.au.

For more information:

Shalon Roth, EVP Corporate Communications

MDxHealth

+44 (0)7393 906278

@ShalonRoth

shalon.roth@mdxhealth.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements and estimates with respect to the anticipated future performance of MDxHealth and the market in which it operates. Such statements and estimates are based on assumptions and assessments of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which were deemed reasonable but may not prove to be correct. Actual events are difficult to predict, may depend upon factors that are beyond the company's control, and may turn out to be materially different. MDxHealth expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements in this release to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based unless required by law or regulation. This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation for the sale or purchase of securities or assets of MDxHealth in any jurisdiction. No securities of MDxHealth may be offered or sold within the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or in compliance with an exemption therefrom, and in accordance with any applicable U.S. securities laws.

NOTE: The MDxHealth logo, MDxHealth, ConfirmMDx, SelectMDx, AssureMDx, PredictMDx and UrNCollect are trademarks or registered trademarks of MDxHealth SA. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.
English Finnish

Tikkurila Oyj

Press Release

June 19, 2017 at 1.30 PM (CET+1)

Tikkurila plans to build new factory in Russia

Tikkurila has signed a Letter of Intent to buy a seven hectare industrial site near St. Petersburg, Russia. The aim is to start the construction work of a greenfield factory in 2018.

In order to support growth, Tkkurila is planning to invest in a new factory in Russia. The factory will be located in Greenstate Industrial Park, two kilometers south of St. Petersburg. The annual capacity of the factory will be 30 million liters with an expansion possibility in the future. The new site will also include a Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) center as well as extensive warehouse premises for raw materials and finished goods with railway connection, which will improve and enhance the efficiency of Tikkurila's distribution facilities. The total investment amount will be around EUR 30-35 million depending on the final set-up. Design of the facility will start immediately and construction is scheduled to begin late next year. The production is set to commence in 2020.

The new factory will produce decorative and industrial products and it will replace the two existing solvent-borne production units in St. Petersburg. After the investment, Tikkurila will operate one water-borne and one solvent-borne factory in the St. Petersburg area. The investment will increase the Russian net capacity and there is also an option for further expansion.

"We are committed to developing our business operations in Russia, which is the second biggest market for Tikkurila after Sweden. We are the clear market leader in decorative paints in Russia and our aim is to strengthen our position further in all our customer segments. The new factory, warehouse and RDI premises improve our competitiveness, production capabilities and customer service," says Erkki Jarvinen, President and CEO of Tikkurila.

"Several location options for the new factory were studied. Greenstate Industrial Park in the Leningrad oblast was chosen due to its optimal location. We also want to hold on to the skilled people we currently employ in St. Petersburg," says Petri Miettinen, Senior Vice President of Operations. "Deployment of the latest production technology will reduce lead-times and improve our environmental footprint. We want to promote high-quality products that are durable and safe for both users and the environment."

Tikkurila has been in the Russian market for decades. Tikkurila started to export paints and coatings to the former Soviet Union since the 1970s. The first Western-style paint factory in Russia was opened by Tikkurila in St. Petersburg in 1995. Currently, Tikkurila has four production units in Russia; three in St. Petersburg and one in Staryi Oskol. Tikkurila's logistics and retail network covers the whole country. Tikkurila operates two primary brands in Russia, Tikkurila and Teks.

For further information, please contact:

Petri Miettinen, Senior Vice President, Operations, mobile +358 50 311 1281, petri.miettinen@tikkurila.com

Ilari Hyyrynen, Country Director, Russia, mobile +358 400 447 472, ilari.hyyrynen@tikkurila.com

Tikkurila is the leading paints and coatings professional in the Nordic region and Russia. With our roots in Finland, we now operate in 14 countries. Our high-quality products and extensive services ensure the best possible user experience in the market. Sustainable beauty since 1862.

www.tikkurilagroup.com
TORONTO, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WeedMD Inc. (TSX-V:WMD) (WeedMD or the Company), a federally licensed producer of medical cannabis, is pleased to announce that on June 16, 2017, the Company received a supplemental license from Health Canada for the production of medical cannabis oils.



The Company has imported a purpose-built high-throughput ethanol extraction machine from Germany, with the goal of starting R&D and production of cannabis oils immediately. After thorough analysis, WeedMD concluded that ethanol extraction is capable of producing a clean product that meets and exceeds the regulators strict guidelines, while providing a scalable and low-cost platform to service the future demand for oil and other extracted products. Once the Company has produced and inventoried saleable batches of oil, it will invite Health Canada to conduct a final inspection to secure an amendment permitting the sale of cannabis oils.

This is an important milestone in our path and commitment to providing physicians and their patients with alternative, more convenient and dose-controlled consumption methods, said Bruce Dawson-Scully, CEO of WeedMD. We look forward to providing our patients with consistent, quality product in a variety of consumption methods as well as educating them and the medical community on the benefits of oil extracts. Based on data released by Health Canada, cannabis oil sales continue to grow at a faster rate than dried flower, and WeedMD will now be positioned to serve the long term care and seniors market with cannabis oil.

For more information, access our investor presentation on our website here.

About WeedMD Inc.

WeedMD Inc. is a licensed producer of medical cannabis pursuant to the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR). WeedMD operates a 26,000 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.

Follow WeedMD On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weedmd/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company-beta/5020743/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WeedMD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weedmd/

To learn more, visit us at www.weedmd.com



Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information based on current expectations. Statements about the date of trading of the Company's common shares on the Exchange and final regulatory approvals, among others, are forward-looking information. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
SAULT STE. MARIE, Ontario, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heliene Inc. (Heliene or the Company) is a leading edge North American solar photovoltaic module manufacturer. The Company is entering a planned transformational phase where it seeks to diversify its product and service offering, while continuing to grow their core manufacturing business, through proprietary technology development to become a market leader in the rapidly expanding Smart Grid sector.



Earlier today, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, David Lametti, announced, on behalf of the Government of Canada, the details of funding towards this project. This project will be funded through Sustainable Development Technology Canada, who works with Canadian companies to bring ground-breaking clean technologies to market. The Company will use these funds to develop a solar smart grid application. The module with a brain, poignantly named Intelligent PV or iPV is the latest in a series of moves by the Company to achieve diversification through innovation.

Striving for operational excellence through flexibility and rapid innovation has been the key to the Companys resilience and success thus far, stated Martin Pochtaruk, President of Heliene. Looking ahead the $3.3 million iPV project, will introduce a new revolutionary product targeting the fast-growing Smart Grid market that will meaningfully diversify Helienes business model beyond the existing manufacturing and service streams. Helienes bright future is supported by pent up and expanding demand in the key target market segments.

Helienes intelligent photovoltaic module product, branded as iPV, is an integrated solar module system that addresses the market in two (2) ways:

It provides Real time data visibility & voltage control for utilities and local distribution companies for monitoring and controlling their distribution lines  An unfulfilled need for the jump into the Smart Grid Era, with it a new revenue stream for the Company.



for utilities and local distribution companies for monitoring and controlling their distribution lines  An unfulfilled need for the jump into the Smart Grid Era, with it a new revenue stream for the Company. It is a Plug and play system for a very easily installed solution that generates power & corrects power factor!

The core of the iPV product is driven by a proprietary close-coupling integration of a brain into a high quality solar photovoltaic module. This brain includes a specialized string optimization inverter, resulting in significantly optimized energy-harvesting, and a control system able to generate reactive power all while providing real time communication to be used for grid visibility and control. Real-time communication and grid control, as provided by iPV, are functions desperately needed with the continued penetration of intermittent renewables into the grid and are not currently available in the market.

For this project Heliene is part of a Consortium including Dressel International Inc., ePOWER (Queens University), Cistel Technology Inc., Letrika Sol d.o.o. of Slovenia and the Sault Ste. Marie Public Utility Commission.

Heliene  Tried, tested and true.

About SDTC

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is an arms-length foundation created by the Government of Canada to promote sustainable development and support projects that develop and demonstrate new technologies to address issues related to climate change, air quality and clean water and soil. SDTC invests in Canadian companies that, through their innovative technologies, contribute positively to Canada by creating quality jobs, driving economic growth and protecting the environment. For more information, please visit www.sdtc.ca

About Heliene

With an innovative team with proven track record, established in 2010 the Company is a manufacturer of high quality, high efficiency solar photovoltaic modules in Canada and the USA with its products installed in North America, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Heliene successfully manufactures and sells a bankable product for the solar infrastructure industry, while targeting the growing smart grid market through its iPV product diversification strategy.
NEWARK, Calif., June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At its annual Supply Partner Conference held recently in Chengdu, China, BOE Technology Group Co. Ltd., a leading IoT technologies, products and services supplier, honored Kateeva with an award for Collaborative Innovation. The award recognizes BOE suppliers who have demonstrated technology leadership, and improved BOEs product competitiveness through close collaboration with BOE on key innovations.



Kateeva is a world-leading provider of inkjet printing equipment used to manufacture Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) displays. The companys YIELDjet FLEX system leads the market for OLED Thin Film Encapsulation (TFE) mass production.

This year, were pleased to acknowledge Kateeva, said Dr. Wenbao Gao, Co-CEO of BOEs Display Business Group. As one supplier of inkjet printing equipment for OLED mass production, the company will be a roadmap partner for BOEs OLED business. Kateevas world-class expertise in advanced inkjet printing and process integration is critical to the productive collaboration we have together. We appreciate the teams commitment to BOEs success, and were delighted to honor them with the Collaborative Innovation award.

Kateevas Chairman and CEO, Dr. Alain Harrus, called the award a true characterization of the relationship shared by Kateeva and BOE. In our respective segments of the OLED ecosystem, were both innovators, he said. BOE is moving fast with vision and leadership to migrate to a technology that is revolutionizing the display industry; Kateeva developed the enabling mass-production equipment at its Silicon Valley headquarters. Together, were applying formidable hardware, software and materials innovation that will enable BOE to manufacture OLED displays with the highest possible yields. Its an honor for our partnership with this valued customer to be recognized with this award.

YIELDjet is a trademark of Kateeva, Inc.

About Kateeva, Inc.

Kateeva makes breakthrough production equipment for manufacturers of advanced electronics technologies. The company has pioneered a precision deposition technology platform that uses innovative inkjet printing to deposit coatings on complex applications with blinding speed and superb accuracy. Kateevas YIELDjet manufacturing equipment solution enables cost-effective mass production of OLED displays. Today, the companys YIELDjet FLEX system leads the market for flexible OLED mass production. Kateeva is headquartered in Silicon Valley, maintains operations in Korea, Taiwan, Japan and China, and is backed by leading Venture Capital firms and other investors. www.kateeva.com.

About BOE Technology Group Co. Ltd.

Founded in April 1993, BOE is a leading IoT technologies, products and services supplier. BOEs three core businesses are display devices, smart systems and healthcare services. BOEs display products are widely used in a broad spectrum of applications such as mobile phone, tablet, notebook, monitor, TV, vehicle display, digital information display, healthcare, finance, and wearable devices. In total, BOE has over 50,000 usable patents, ranking among the top of the industry. According to the market data at the first quarter of 2017, BOEs global market share of TFT-LCD panels for mobile phone, tablet and notebook ranks number one.
NEW ORLEANS, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until August 18, 2017 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Aaron's, Inc. (NYSE:AAN), if they purchased the Companys shares between February 6, 2015 and October 29, 2015, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia.



What You May Do

If you purchased shares of Aarons and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com). If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by August 18, 2017.

About the Lawsuit

Aarons and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On October 30, 2015, Aarons revealed that a software glitch affecting the credit qualification algorithm utilized by its subsidiary, Progressive Finance Holding, LLC, had resulted in the loss of critical data as well as the Companys ability to make lease qualification determinations and collect payments. Aarons further announced that the problems had first been discovered in February, nine months prior to the revelation.

On this news, the price of Aarons shares plummeted.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is a law firm focused on securities, antitrust and consumer class actions, along with merger & acquisition and breach of fiduciary litigation against publicly traded companies on behalf of shareholders. The firm has offices in New York, California and Louisiana.

To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
New Delhi, June 19 (IBNS): The Congress on Monday refused to comment on the NDA's move to name Dali leader and Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the upcoming Presidential polls.

"The Congress will not make any comment on the matter now," Congress leader and former Union Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said while addressing a press conference.

"We expected BJP to build consensus first on Presidential candidate," he said.

Bihar governor Ram Nath Kovind, a Dalit leader, is the National Democratic Alliances choice for India's next President, BJP chief Amit Shah said on Monday.

He made the announcement after a meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Board.

Shah said PM Modi talked with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi as well as former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and informed them about the NDA's choice.

"We are for putting up a candidate from the Dalit community, who has fought his way to rise. We have conveyed it...Now they (Congress and others) will discuss among themselves and decide," Shah said.

A two-time member of Rajya Sabha and former national spokesperson of the party, Kovind headed the BJPs Scheduled Caste Morcha between 1999 and 2002.

Kovind comes from the Koli community, which is classified as scheduled caste in Uttar Pradesh.

Born in 1945, Kovind was a member of the Upper House between 1994 and 2000 and between 2000 and 2006.
Legit.ng came across the touching story of an orphan who is currently battling to save his life after his uncle drove a 3-inch nail into his head for stealing.

According to reports, the little boy, Friday Paul, who lives with one of his uncles and his family in an apartment at 6, Anjolarin Street, Odogunyan, Ikorodu, was punished for allegedly stealing from his uncle.

The 8-year-old who moved in with his uncle following the death of his parents two years ago, was accused of stealing N500. Upon denying it, his uncle decided to torture him into saying the truth.

The uncle simply identified as Mr Paul, reportedly dragged him into his room, beat him up and put a 3-inch nail into his head.

8-year-old Friday Paul had a 3-inch nail put into his head by his uncle who claims he stole N500

READ ALSO: Camera catches ex-governor Amaechi sleeping on live television (Photo)

The neighbours ran to the apartment upon hearing Friday's agonising screams, and eventually took him to the Ikorodu general hospital where he was rejected over lack of funds, before they took him to The Saviour The Rock private hospital.

Mr Paul had reportedly tried to escape but was caught by neighbours who almost lynched him before police from the Sagamu road division arrived and took him away.

PAY ATTENTION: Get all the latest gossips on NAIJ Gossip App

A neighbour who identified himself as Mr Edwin Abah, said Friday has been a victim of abuse at the hands of his uncle.

Friday is said to require the sum of N100,000 for surgery, even though the nail has been removed from his head.

Na wa o! This is just bad!

Meanwhile, see what Nigerians think about being in an abusive relationship:

Source: Legit.ng
New York State Department of Health Warns of Potential Measles Exposures in Saratoga and Warren Counties

ALBANY, N.Y. (June 18, 2017) - The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) announced today that a healthcare worker who is employed by Hudson Headwaters has been confirmed to have measles. In addition to working at Hudson Headwaters, the infected individual spent time at a Saratoga County Home Depot, a Saratoga Springs Restaurant, and a Warren County medical practice between June 5 and June 8, 2017, potentially exposing others to measles. Individuals are not likely to contract measles if they are immune.

A person is unlikely to get measles if they were born before January 1, 1957, have received two doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine or have a lab test confirming immunity.

Anyone who visited the following locations may have been exposed:

Home Depot (garden section of store), 3043 Route 50, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. between 12:00  2:00 p.m. on June 5, 2017.

Hudson Headwaters Health Network  Warrensburg Health Center, 3767 Main St., Warrensburg, N.Y. between 7:25 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. on June 6, 2017.

Hudson Headwaters Health Network, 9 Carey Rd., Queensbury, N.Y. between 7:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. on June 7, 2017.

Hudson Headwaters Health Network - Warrensburg Health Center, 3767 Main St., Warrensburg, N.Y. between 10:30 a.m.  6:30 p.m. on June 7, 2017.

Saratoga Stadium restaurant, 389 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. between 6:15 - 9:30 p.m. on June 7, 2017.

Hudson Headwaters Health Network  West Mountain Health Services, 161 Carey Rd., Building 1, Queensbury, N.Y. between 7:45  10:35 a.m. on June 8, 2017.

These times reflect the period that the infected individual was in these areas and a two-hour period after the individual left the area, as the virus remains alive in air and on surfaces for up to two hours. This explains the overlap in times.

Those individuals lacking immunity or not sure if they have been vaccinated, should contact their health care provider if they develop measles symptoms. Symptoms include a fever, rash, cough, conjunctivitis or runny nose. Symptoms usually appear in 10-12 days after exposure. Individuals who may have been exposed and who lack immunity could begin experiencing symptoms at this time.

To prevent the spread of illness, the NYSDOH is advising individuals who may have been exposed and who have symptoms consistent with measles to contact their health care provider or a local emergency department before going for care. This will help to prevent others at these facilities from being exposed to the illness.

After contacting their health care provider, symptomatic individuals should also contact the local health department.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected people. Symptoms generally appear in two stages.

In the first stage, which lasts two to four days, the individual may have a runny nose, cough and a slight fever. Eyes may become reddened and sensitive to light while the fever gradually rises each day, often peaking as high as 103 to 105 F. Small bluish white spots surrounded by a reddish area may also appear on the inside of the mouth.

The second stage begins on the third to seventh day and consists of a red blotchy rash lasting five to six days. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads downward and outward, reaching the hands and feet. The rash fades in the same order that it appeared, from head to extremities. A person can spread measles from four days before the onset of rash through four days after the rash begins. Although measles is usually considered a childhood disease, it can be contracted at any age.

The single best way to prevent measles is to be vaccinated. Individuals should receive two doses of MMR vaccine to be protected. If a person is unsure if they are immune they should contact their healthcare provider. Typically, the first dose should be given at 12-15 months of age and the second dose should be given at four to six years of age (age of school entry), although individuals may also be vaccinated later in life. In New York State, measles immunization is required of children enrolled in schools, daycare, and pre-kindergarten. Since August 1990, college students have also been required to demonstrate immunity against measles.

The Saratoga County and Warren County Health Departments have alerted area health care providers of the measles exposures and are working with the Hudson Headwaters to identify and contact individuals who may have been exposed to provide education and guidance.

NYSDOH will issue a regional health advisory to health care providers to notify them of the potential exposure. Health care providers should report all suspected cases of measles to their county health department.

More information about measles can be found at https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2170/.
Kolkata, June 19 (IBNS):West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said their decision on Presidential Polls candidate will only be announced after the meeting of the opposition parties on June 22.

Speaking on NDA naming Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate for the Presidential polls, Banerjee said: "In order to support someone, we must know the person. Candidate should be someone who will be beneficial for the country. Opposition will meet on 22nd June, then only we can announce our decision."

"I am not for a moment saying that the Bihar Governor Ram Nath Kovind is unfit to be the President. I have spoken to 2 or 3 other Opposition leaders, they are also surprised. There are other big Dalit leaders in the country. Just because he was the leader of Dalit Morcha of BJP they have made him the candidate," she said.

Banerjee said someone of the stature of current President Pranab Mukherjee, ,Union Minister Sushma Swaraj or BJP patriarch LK Advani may have been made the candidate.

Office of President is a key post. Someone of stature of Pranab Da, or even Sushma Swaraj or Advani ji may have been made the candidate: MB  AITC (@AITCofficial) June 19, 2017

Reacting to the selection of Kovind as NDA candidate, TMC's Chief National Spokesperson of the party, Derek OBrien tweeted: "How many of you logged onto Wikipedia today ? I did. #RamNathKovind."
Melbourne, June 19 (IBNS): The Australian government on Monday announced that Indians could apply for a visitor visa online from July 1.

"All Indian passport holders will have the option to lodge Visitor visa applications online from 1 July 2017, as part of the continued expansion of online access to Visitor visas globally," read a statement issued by Australia's Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Alex Hawke.

In the first four months of 2017 alone, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection granted more than 65,000 Visitor visas to Indian nationals.

Alex Hawke, said the online application option would make applying for Australian Visitor visas easier and ultimately enhance the visitor experience for Indian citizens.

Indian nationals wishing to visit Australia will soon be able to apply for a Visitor visa in a more convenient and accessible manner, Hawke said.

Online lodgement for visitor visa applications is a significant enhancement that will benefit Indian applicants seeking to visit Australia as tourists or business visitors, or those wanting to reconnect with family and friends," he said.

Online lodgement offers benefits such as 24/7 accessibility, electronic payment of the visa application charge and the ability to check the status of applications lodged online, all through the Departments ImmiAccount portal.

"Being able to check the status of an application online, as soon as it is finalised, will allow Indian applicants to finalise their travel arrangements as soon as possible, confident that they have first obtained the necessary visa for their visit," read the statement.
VOA Learning English presents Americas Presidents.

Today we will finish our story about Abraham Lincoln.

He led the United States during the Civil War. That conflict lasted from 1861 to 1865. In it, the southern states of the Confederacy battled the Northern states of the Union.

As a wartime president, Lincoln was known for several things. He was actively involved in plotting the military campaign. When Lincoln was unhappy with the performance of his top generals, he dismissed them.

He also greatly increased the power of the presidency, even beyond what the U.S. Constitution permitted.

And, Lincoln struck at the issue at the heart of the Civil War: slavery. He ordered that enslaved people in the Confederate states be forever free.

His order is called the Emancipation Proclamation.

Gettysburg

Seven months after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect, the Confederacy and the Union clashed in the bloodiest battle of the Civil War.

The army of Confederate General Robert E. Lee was on the offensive. Lee planned to move the fighting out of the South and invade the North. He won a major victory against Union forces at Chancellorsville, Virginia. Then he pushed across Maryland and into Pennsylvania.

A Union army, led by General George Meade, met Lees troops near a small, crossroads town called Gettysburg.

In the first days of July 1863  a little more than two years after the start of the Civil War  Confederate and Union troops each struggled to claim the territory. Both sides suffered massive casualties.

But Lee believed Confederate troops were close to winning, and that Meade had spread his soldiers thin. So, on the third day of fighting, he ordered a direct attack on Union forces. Lees soldiers aimed at the center of the Union line, positioned behind stone walls at the top of a ridge, or raised area.

Confederates first used cannons to fire artillery at the ridge.

Then about 15,000 Confederate soldiers began marching across more than a kilometer of an open field. The Union soldiers behind the walls fired on them.

At the same time, more Union forces attacked the Confederate soldiers on the left and right.

In half an hour, three-quarters of the soldiers in the open field had been killed or wounded.

Thousands more on each side also died.

The surviving Confederate forces quickly withdrew and waited for Meade to attack again. But, much to Lincolns dissatisfaction, he did not.

The following morning, Lee led the survivors back to Virginia. He left behind 28,000 soldiers dead, wounded or missing, more than one-third of his total army.

The Union had suffered 23,000 casualties, almost as many.

Gettysburg Address

The Battle of Gettysburg is important in American history for several reasons. One is the large number of killed and wounded soldiers  the largest until World War II in the 20th century.

Another reason is because it was a turning point in the war. It ended Lees invasion of the North and weakened his army permanently.

Over the same days, Union troops won another major victory under General Ulysses S. Grant in the southern city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

The battles at Vicksburg and Gettysburg began to turn the conflict to the Unions favor.

Finally, the Battle of Gettysburg is almost always linked to a speech Lincoln gave there, known as the Gettysburg Address. It is only about 270 words long. But it is one of the most famous speeches in American history.

Lincoln spoke at the opening of a cemetery for all the soldiers who had died at Gettysburg. But he also used the event to speak to the entire country about the war.

He said the conflict was a test of whether the American form of government could survive. That is, a government of the people, by the people, for the people.

He also pointed to the Declaration of Independence as the countrys founding document. He said the nation had been conceived in liberty. And, he said, it was dedicated to the idea that all men are created equal.

Historians have noted that, in the speech, Lincoln changed the reasoning behind the war effort. It continued to be a struggle to reunite the country. But after the Gettysburg Address, it was also more clearly a struggle to free enslaved people.

Surrender at Appomattox Courthouse

In 1864, Lincoln won re-election to a second term as president. His new vice president was Senator Andrew Johnson from the Southern state of Tennessee.

At the swearing-in ceremony, the president spoke about the need for the North and South to come together again peacefully.

In that speech, his famous Second Inaugural, Lincoln called on all Americans to finish the war. He urged them to care for the wounded, the wives and children of soldiers killed in battle, and to seek a just and lasting peace.

Most importantly, Lincoln asked Americans to reunite with malice toward none, with charity for all. In other words, with respect and kindness.

A few weeks later, the war effectively ended.

Lincolns military plan had worked. He had finally found two generals whom he trusted: Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman.

Sherman led a campaign across the southern states. His path through Georgia, from the city of Atlanta to the city of Savannah, was known as Shermans March to the Sea. The march destroyed farms and houses along the way. The destruction was terrible. It was also effective. The Confederate Army was left with little food or communication.

At the same time, Grant surrounded Lees army in Virginia. Grant cut these Southern troops off from supplies, too.

Lee realized he must surrender to Grant  although, he said, he would rather die a thousand deaths.

The two men met on April 9, 1865 at a farmhouse in the town of Appomattox Court House, Virginia. Lee famously wore his finest military uniform and sword. Grant famously wore his fighting clothes, still marked with mud.



Lee and Grant spoke briefly, then Grant wrote the terms of surrender. As Lincoln had asked, the terms were respectful and generous. Lees officers were free to keep their horses and their weapons, and the Union army would give the Confederate soldiers food.

When some Union troops began to play a victory song, Grant told them to stop. The war is over, he said. The rebels are our countrymen again.

Fords Theater

Five days after Lee surrendered, Lincoln and his wife Mary went to a theater in Washington, DC.

To put it mildly, the last years had been very difficult for them. While Lincoln was supervising the war effort, both his third and fourth son became sick with typhoid. The younger boy recovered. The older did not. Willie Lincoln died in the White House at age 11.

Mary and Abraham Lincoln were crushed. Mary Lincoln blamed herself; she believed God was punishing her. In their own ways, the Lincolns continued to mourn in the years after Willie's death.

At one point, Lincoln said he hoped he and Mary could feel happier. He urged them to have some pleasant times together.

So, with the war coming to an end, they went to a light-hearted play at Fords Theater. It was the night of Friday, April 14, 1865  a day that Christians were marking that year as Good Friday, the anniversary of Jesus death.

The theater was not far from the White House. The Lincolns had seats in a box high above the stage.

Toward the end of the performance, a man entered their box and shot Abraham Lincoln in the back of the head.

Then the gunman jumped to the stage, breaking his leg as he landed. He called out a Latin expression, Sic semper Tyrranis! It means Thus always to tyrants.

Some observers say the man added, The South is avenged.

The gunman was a southerner named John Wilkes Booth. He had plotted to kill the president after hearing Lincoln support voting rights for African-Americans.

Booth briefly escaped, but was later captured and hanged.

Lincoln was taken to a nearby boardinghouse. He seemed lifeless and could hardly breathe. Doctors examined him but found they could not save him.

Lincoln died the following morning. He was 56 years old.

The emotions of many Americans changed from joy at the coming end of the Civil War to shock and mourning. Thousands lined up along railroad tracks as Lincolns body made its way from Washington, DC to his home in Illinois.

Even many Southerners mourned Lincolns death. They understood that he would treat them kindly when the country was reunited.

A little more than six weeks after Lincoln's assassination, the last Confederate army surrendered, and the war was considered officially over.

The country was reunited and the process of legally freeing enslaved people had begun.

Although these acts are tremendous parts of Lincolns legacy, in time his public image would grow only larger and more celebrated. As one witness to Lincolns death reportedly said, Now he belongs to the ages.

Im Kelly Jean Kelly.

Kelly Jean Kelly wrote this story for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

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Words and Their Stories

casualty - n. a person who is hurt or killed during an accident or war

three-quarters - n. seventy-five percent

favor - n. regarded as most likely to succeed or win

conceived - v. thought of or created in the mind

dedicated - v. used only for one particular purpose

malice - n. desire to cause harm to another person

charity - n. the act of giving money, food, or other kinds of help to people who need it

stage - n. a raised platform in a theater where the performers stand

avenged - adj. having harmed or punished someone who has harmed you


This is Whats Trending Today.

The American state of Colorado is considering a ban on smartphones for children younger than 13.

A Denver-based doctor - and father - is leading the effort. Tim Farnum is the founder of a group called Parents Against Underage Smartphones.

His proposal would ban sales of smartphones to children under the age of 13. It would also bar sales to anyone who wishes to buy such a device for anyone younger than 13.

The measure would also require sellers of smartphones to provide proof to the state government that they have asked buyers if the phone is for anyone under 13.

The proposal only concerns smartphones, and not cell phones without internet service.

The measure now needs about 300,000 signatures in order to appear on Colorados statewide ballot in 2018. If it makes the ballot and is approved by voters, Colorado would become the first state to have such a ban.

Tim Farnum said he decided to push for the measure after watching his own children struggle with the mental effects of always having a smartphone around.

They would get the phones and lock themselves in the room and change who they were, he told The Coloradoan newspaper.

State Senator John Kefalas, a Democrat, said he understands the reasoning behind the proposed law. However, he told The Coloradoan that a childs smartphone usage is a family matter and not something the government should decide.

Ultimately, this comes down to parents...making sure their kids are not putting themselves at risk.

Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics released guidelines for media use by children. The group advised parents to limit time spent watching videos to no more than one hour a day of high-quality programming until age 6. After that, it said, parents should set reasonable time limits for their children and make sure electronic devices do not take time away from sleep or exercise.

And thats Whats Trending Today

Im Ashley Thompson.

The Associated Press reported this story. Ashley Thompson adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

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Words in This Story

lock - v. to fasten the door, lid, etc., of (something) with a lock

guideline - n. a rule or instruction that shows or tells how something should be done  usually plural

ultimately - adj. at the most basic level : in the central or most important way
The government in Nigeria recently negotiated the release of 82 young women. All 82 were students three years ago when Boko Haram militants raided their school in the northeastern Nigerian town of Chibok.

The militants kidnapped 276 schoolgirls in all.

Today Nigerias Ministry of Women Affairs is caring for a total of 106 freed Chibok girls in the capital, Abuja.

Boko Haram released most of them during a prisoner exchange last month. Others were freed in October after negotiations. Three of the girls escaped.

The ministry is providing skills training and educational classes to the young women. They are also receiving psychosocial support.

Women Affairs Minister Aisha Jummai Alhassan spoke about the young women at a recent event in Abuja. She said the government hopes they can return to school, possibly in September.

They are going back to school because they had aspirations," said Alhassan. "That was why their parents put them in school from where they were abducted. When they stabilize and when they recover, we will still put them back to school.

The government said the Chibok girls will not return to their former school. The girls families and some activists have criticized the decision. But the government says it is protecting the young women.

Officials are also closely watching the girls progress as they take part in recreational activities and weekly religious programs. They also are taking classes in biology, English and mathematics.

The girls are expected to be in the rehabilitation program for nine months.

Allen Manasseh is a member of the Bring Back Our Girls group. He spoke with some of the young women at their rehabilitation center.

Wherever they are, the fact that they are not with the terrorists is considered OK for them, he said.

Manasseh told VOA the women are healthy. But more than 100 other Chibok schoolgirls are still missing. That number includes two of his cousins.

Foreign governments and aid groups are helping the former kidnap victims.

The Canadian government recently gave health care products and clothing to the girls. They smiled when they were given the items, but they did not make any statements.

Christopher Thornley is the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria.

The Chibok Girls are symbolic of a vast humanitarian challenge affecting millions of lives. This is why Canada has stepped up this year to provide $27 million to U.N. agencies and NGO partners for humanitarian assistance in the Northeast. This includes $2 million that we have provided to UNFPA to support the Chibok girls as well as its interventions in the Northeast.

The raid on Chibok by Boro Haram was the largest and most famous kidnapping in the groups history.

The Nigerian government says it continues to negotiate with Boko Haram to gain the release of the missing schoolgirls.

Im Alice Bryant.

Chika Oduah reported this story from Abuja for VOANews.com. VOAs Hausa language service provided additional reporting. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted the report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, or visit our Facebook page.

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Words in This Story

psychosocial  adj. a combination of psychological and social

aspiration  n. something that a person wants very much to achieve

stabilize  v. to become stable or to make (something) stable, such as to stop quickly changing, increasing, getting worse, etc.

rehabilitate  v. to bring (someone or something) back to a normal, healthy condition after an illness, injury, drug problem, etc.

cousin  n. a child of your uncle or aunt

symbolic  adj. relating to or being used as a symbol; expressing or representing an idea or quality without using words

vast  adj. very great in size, amount or extent

challenge  n. a difficult task or problem; something that is hard to do

NGO  n. acronym for non-governmental organization

UNFPA  n. acronym for United Nations Population Fund (formerly the United Nations Fund for Population Activities)
In Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, a non-profit organization stores and grows seeds. The organization used to operate a research center just outside of Aleppo, Syria. But violence in Syria led the group to leave the country.

Now, many employees hope their efforts will help rebuild the country they left behind.

Former site near Aleppo

The organization is named the International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas, or ICARDA. ICARDA hopes to produce crops to help feed people around the world.

When it was in Aleppo, the seed bank was spread across 1,000 hectares. It had 150,000 seed samples stored and ready to be grown.

Each sample could hold traits that could help crops survive changing weather conditions.

"We try to figure out how to produce crops better adapted to climate change," says Ali Shehadeh, a researcher for ICARDA.

But the groups work was limited by violence during Syrias civil war. Ali Shehadeh explains:

"It started when they started stealing the cars from the centers, or even blocking the roads, capturing the cars, stealing the cars by force  it wasn't a pleasant experience for a lot of us."

ICARDA sends seeds out of Syria

In 2012, the ICARDA team copied most of the samples and sent them to Svalbard. Svalbard is a global seed vault dug into a mountain in Northern Norway.

In 2015, ICARDA took the seeds from Svalbard to help build collections in Lebanon and Morocco.

An area called Terbol, in the Bekaa Valley, is the new home for ICARDA. The new site has laboratories and a seed bank.

Mariana Yazbeck is a seed bank manager at the new site. She says the work of the bank will become more important as the climate continues to change.

"You will need to make new crops, new varieties that can withstand very high temperature, that can produce yield even with less rainfall."

Climate Change and Conflict

In fact, some analysts say climate change may have contributed to the conflict in Syria.

The Levant region, which includes Syria, began suffering from a drought in 1998. It continued through the start of the war in Syria in 2011. A study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research says this drought is likely to be the worst in almost 900 years.

The drought caused widespread change and challenges. Those factors -- along with other issues in Syria -- put pressure on the countrys economy, government and population.

Since it began, the war has also hurt Syria's agricultural sector. According to a U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization or FAO study last year, the war has done $16 billion dollars in damage.

Adam Yao is an FAO representative. "To rebuild the agricultural sector, there will need to be a major rethink of Syria's whole agricultural policy."

He added that ICARDA's experts could have an important role in helping the country.

Although no one is currently at the site, the ICARDA center in Aleppo may still be working. Some 150,000 seeds are still thought to be frozen there, waiting for the researchers to return.

I'm John Russell.

John Owens wrote this story for VOA News. John Russell adapted this story for Learning English. Kelly Jean Kelly was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.

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Words in This Story

sample  n. a small amount of something that gives you information about the thing it was taken from

trait  n. a quality that makes one person or thing different from another

drought  n. a long period of time during which there is very little or no rain

adapt  v. to change (something) so that it functions better or is better suited for a purpose

vault  n. a locked room where money or valuable things are kept
As President of the United States, Donald Trump shakes a lot of hands.

But look out.

If you shake Trumps hand, you might get pulled off your feet. That almost happened to Judge Neil Gorsuch after the President nominated him to the U.S. Supreme Court in late January.

Since Trump took office on January 20, many world leaders, and even American politicians, have discovered they need to be ready for an unusual handshake from the U.S. president.

Trump spent 19 seconds shaking the hand of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in February. News media photographs showed the prime minister looking relieved when Trump finally let go of his hand.

Days later, Trump shook hands with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau -- twice. Each time, Trudeau moved in close to Trump as if to prevent Trump from pulling him off balance. Trudeau also placed his left hand high on Trumps shoulder, apparently to control the handshake.

In March, Trump made news by not shaking hands with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. On video, Merkel could be heard saying to Trump they want a handshake. But Trump did not answer and did not offer his hand.

In late May, the new French President Emmanuel Macron met with Trump in Brussels, Belgium.

Many reporters reacted to Macrons handshake with Trump, including Steve Holland of the Reuters news agency. The reporter tweeted: Trump and Macron were gripping hands hard, and Trump just seems to want his hand back.

Macron spoke to a French publication. He said, My handshake with him, its not innocent. He called the handshake, a moment of truth.

Sending a message with a handshake

Patti Wood wrote a book about body language called Success Signals. She teaches business leaders to connect better with their employees and clients.

Wood said the tradition of shaking hands goes back hundreds of years. Originally, the greeting was an arm clasp and eventually it became a handshake.

The up-and-down action was a way to shake any weapons out from another persons armor or clothing. It was a way for two strangers to be sure the other person did not have a weapon.

It showed Im not going to kill you, and youre not going to kill me, she said.

Trump did not shake hands often until he became a candidate for president. In the past, he has said he wanted to avoid germs.

Wood said she thinks Trump also did not shake hands because it was a way for him to show he was more important than the other person.

Now that Trump has to shake hands, he tries to find another way to show his value. Wood said Trump is testing the people he meets.

Sometimes you can catch him smiling, or even smirking, as he puts the other person off center. So its a game, and hes playing this game, and he feels like: okay, I want to win this game.

So, Wood said, trying to win the handshake may be Trumps way of showing he has more power than the person he is shaking hands with.

Esther Manheimer is in her fourth year as mayor of Asheville. It is a small city in the western part of North Carolina with a successful tourism industry. She meets with many visitors as well as townspeople.

Manheimer said a handshake is a way to welcome someone new. A handshake shows the person they are safe and their ideas are important.

I, personally, havent ever been interested in trying to set an aggressive tone with somebody else through a handshake. Actually, just the opposite. Im trying to prepare a forum where we can feel comfortable talking with one another.

Body language expert Wood agreed that the tradition of shaking hands permits leaders to show that a newcomer is accepted.

Im going to shake hands with this stranger thats coming into the tribe, or in business now, coming into this meeting, to say you are safe here.

A usual handshake is with the right hand. But what should people do with their left hand?

Wood noted how Trudeau placed his left hand on Trumps upper arm. She said that was a control move to show that you have the other person surrounded. Wood called this a power handshake.

But Manheimer said she uses her left hand when she wants to make another person more comfortable in a tense situation.

Some people are really nervous, or were meeting about something thats already kind of stressful for folks, or contentious. And so, you know, I want to make a connection with someone and let them know, like, Im another person, and I care about you, and dont be too nervous or upset about this.

The power of a handshake

Some handshakes are so powerful they inspire people.

That is what former U.S. President Bill Clinton said when he shook hands with President John F. Kennedy in the summer of 1963.

Clinton was 16 years old. He was in Washington with a group called Boys Nation that taught young men about government.

There is a photo of the handshake, and it is often used as an example of a good one.

You can see Clinton make eye contact with the president and lean in as he extends his hand. It is a short, firm handshake. After the handshake, another boy at the event remembered Clinton saying, One day, Im going to have his job.

About 30 years later, he did.

Im Dan Friedell.

Dan Friedell wrote this story for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. Dorothy Gundy produced the VOA Learning English video.

How would you describe your handshake? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

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Words in This Story

nominate  v. to formally choose (someone) as a candidate for a job, position, office, etc.

relieved  adj. feeling relaxed and happy because something difficult or unpleasant has been stopped, avoided, or made easier : feeling relief

grip  v. to grab or hold (something) tightly

clasp  v. to hold (someone or something) tightly with your hands or arms

germ  n. a very small living thing that causes disease

smirk  n. to smile in an unpleasant way because you are pleased with yourself, glad about someone else's trouble, etc.

tone  n. the general quality of a place, situation, etc.

forum  n. a place or opportunity for discussing a subject

comfortable  adj. not causing any physically unpleasant feelings : producing physical comfort

stressful  adj. full of or causing stress : making you feel worried or anxious

contentious  adj. likely to cause people to argue or disagree

inspire  v. to make (someone) want to do something : to give (someone) an idea about what to do or create
Last year, more people than ever were refugees or forcibly displaced from their home because of war, violence or persecution.

This information comes from the United Nations refugee agencys Global Trends Report. The UN agency said it found a record 65.6 million people were forcibly displaced at the end of 2016. That is about 300,000 more people than in 2015, and the most ever documented.

The agency said its report shows one of every 113 people worldwide is either a refugee or has been forcibly displaced within their own country.

By any measure, this is an unacceptable number, and it speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises, said Filippo Grandi of Italy.

Grandi is the UN high commissioner for refugees. He has worked on refugee issues for over 30 years.

Syria and South Sudan crises leading to displacement

The major reasons for the large number of displaced people are the civil war in Syria and the growing numbers of people fleeing South Sudan after the failure of peace efforts.

The UN agency found 40.3 million people were forcibly displaced and living somewhere inside their own country.

The number of refugees was 22.5 million. A refugee is defined as someone living outside their homeland because of war, violence or persecution  threats of punishment or bad treatment.

The UN report said the worlds poorest nations are taking up the biggest responsibility of housing and providing food for displaced persons.

The UN report said 84 percent of all refugees are living in developing nations. Most of those fleeing from South Sudan have gone to neighboring Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic.

The UN Report called the large number of unaccompanied children asking for asylum a growing and difficult problem.

Tragically, 75,000 asylum claims were received from children traveling alone or separated from their parent, the report noted.

Grandi said he is worried that the United Nations has received only about 23 percent of the $8 billion it requested to deal with the continuing Syrian civil war. He told VOA he hopes the shortfall is not because the Syrians are forgotten and that the money will soon be made available.

Grandi said the U.S. government gave $1.5 billion to the UN refugee agency last year -- more than any other nation. The Trump Administration has proposed cutting the governments $30 billion foreign-aid budget by nearly one third for 2018.

At a hearing last week, Maryland Senator Ben Cardin said cutting foreign aid hurts suffering people, but also makes the world more dangerous for America.

The Trump administration has defended the proposed cuts. In its budget proposal to Congress, administration officials said other countries must do their fair share as the U.S. works more on its own concerns and problems.

Some returned home in 2016

While people continued to flee in record numbers, the UN report noted that around 500,000 refugees returned home last year. Another 6.5 million people who had been forcibly displaced returned to their home communities.

But the report said many who returned did so in less than ideal circumstances and facing an uncertain future.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Lisa Schlein reported on this story for VOANews.com. Bruce Alpert adapted this story for Learning English, with additional reporting by The Associated Press and other sources. George Grow was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page.

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Words in This Story

persecution - n. to treat (someone) cruelly or unfairly especially because of race or religious or political beliefs

solidarity - n. a feeling of unity between people who have the same interests, goals

resolve - v. to take care of a problem

unaccompanied - adj. children without parents or adults to oversee or supervise them

circumstance - n. a condition or fact that affects a situation

uncertain  adj. unsure; not clear
Xiaomis new Mi Notebook Air is a 13.3 inch laptop that weighs 2.8 pounds, measures about 0.6 inches thick, and which features an Intel Core i5-7200U Kaby Lake processor and NVIDIA GeForce MX150 graphics.

Its an update to last years model, which was the same size and had a similar design, but which sported an Intel Skylake processor and NVIDIA GeForce 940MX graphics.

The new model ships with 8GB of RAM, but supports up to a maximum of 16GB of memory. It will ship in two configurations: one with 128GB of solid state storage and other with 256GB.

Both models features 802.11ac WiFi, Bluetooth 4.1, a 1920 x 1080 pixel display, HDMI and headset jacks, a USB Type-C port, and two USB 3.0 ports.

The new model also has a fingerprint sensor.

Prices are expected to start at about $730 in China, and while Xiaomi doesnt currently sell its laptops in the US through its Mi Store, third-party retailers should have the new model in stock soon. Gearbest isnt taking orders yet, but the company does have a product page for the 2017 model.

Xiaomi also upgraded the smaller, less-powerful Mi Notebook Air 12.5 earlier this year, giving that model a spec bump from an Intel Core M3 Skylake chip to a newer Core M3 Kaby Lake processor. The Mi Notebook Air 12.5 with a Core M3-7Y30 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage currently sells for about $694.

thanks Eric B!
Trekkers on the way to Everest Base Camp. Credit: Buddha Basnyat

Trekking and mountain climbing are quickly growing in popularity, but.one of the challenges that climbers face is acute mountain sickness (AMS). Previous studies have shown that ibuprofen is an effective way to reduce the risk of AMS. Investigators wanted to find out if acetaminophen, a commonly used anti-pain medicine like ibuprofen, would have a comparable effect. They found almost no difference in the performance of both drugs, suggesting that acetaminophen may be another effective prophylactic treatment for AMS. Their results are published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine.

AMS occurs when the body does not properly acclimatize to increasing elevation. The gold standard of prophylactic medication for AMS is acetazolamide, a prescription medication with distressing side effects like tingling and burning sensation (paresthesia), especially in the fingers and toes, and the risk of an allergic reaction. While ibuprofen had been shown to reduce the risk of AMS, it may have common unwanted side effects. Therefore, investigators wanted to assess whether acetaminophen, a popular and readily available drug similar in action to ibuprofen with fewer gastrointestinal side effects might also reduce the risk of AMS.

"The results of this study found no significant difference in the incidence and severity of AMS between prophylactic dosing of acetaminophen and ibuprofen," noted the study's lead investigator Buddha Basnyat, MD, from the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Kathmandu, Nepal, and the Himalayan Rescue Association and the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, UK, and his co-investigators. "These results suggest that acetaminophen performs similar to ibuprofen in the prevention of AMS in partially-acclimatized subjects."

AMS is potentially deadly. The condition can often start out with symptoms normally associated with altitude sickness: headache, dizziness, fatigue, upset stomach, and poor sleep. If left untreated, AMS can progress and cause fatal neurologic or pulmonary conditions. "The best prevention of altitude illness is a slow ascent," explained Dr. Basnyat and his co-investigators. "However, proper acclimatization might be ignored or deemed impractical by mountain climbers, hikers, local pilgrims, rescue teams, or military operations."

A double-blind randomized trial followed 332 non-Nepali participants along the Everest trekking route. Subjects were recruited in both Pheriche (4371 m elevation) and Dingboche (4410 m) and instructed to take either acetaminophen or ibuprofen three times a day until they reached Lobuche (4940 m) where they were assessed using the Lake Louise Questionnaire, a well-established tool, to determine whether or not they had AMS. While some of the climbers did present with AMS at Lobuche, investigators found no statistically significant difference in the incidence and severity of AMS between the two groups.

"This finding suggests that the pathophysiology of AMS may not only be dependent on arachidonic-acid pathway and inflammation triggered by ibuprofen, but also other mechanisms that mediate nociception influenced by acetaminophen," concluded Dr. Basnyat and his co-investigators. "More studies need to be done, but this study clearly shows acetaminophen may be effective in the prevention of AMS and could be potentially useful for people who want an alternative drug to acetazolamide for the prevention of AMS."

"We appreciate the efforts of these investigators to evaluate questions that can impact the health and safety of many who journey into the high-altitude realm," stated Neal Pollock, PhD, editor-in-chief of Wilderness & Environmental Medicine, "and we are pleased to share the results with the community through the journal."

More information: Nicholas C. Kanaan et al, Prophylactic Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen Result in Equivalent Acute Mountain Sickness Incidence at High Altitude: A Prospective Randomized Trial, Wilderness & Environmental Medicine (2017). Nicholas C. Kanaan et al, Prophylactic Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen Result in Equivalent Acute Mountain Sickness Incidence at High Altitude: A Prospective Randomized Trial,(2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2016.12.011
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A major new international study has revealed for the first time that some features in a baby's DNA can increase the risk of its mother developing pre-eclampsiaa potentially dangerous condition in pregnancy.

These results from the InterPregGen study are published in Nature Genetics. The work was carried out by genetics experts from the UK, Nordic countries and Central Asia and is the first to show an effect of DNA from the fetus on the health of its mother.

Pre-eclampsia affects up to 5% of pregnancies and is first suspected when a woman is found to have high blood pressure, usually in the second half of pregnancy. The condition can cause serious complications including fits, stroke, liver and blood problems and in some cases the death of mother and baby.

The 5-year study involved teams from the UK, Iceland, Finland, Norway, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. They studied the genetic make-up of 4,380 babies born from pre-eclamptic pregnancies and compared their DNA with over 300,000 healthy individuals.

Dr Linda Morgan, from the University of Nottingham's School of Life Sciences, coordinated the 5-year study, which included DNA samples contributed from Iceland, Norway and Finland as well as from over 20 universities and maternity units in the UK.

Dr Morgan says: "For many years midwives and obstetricians have known that a woman is more likely to develop pre-eclampsia if her mother or sister had the disorder. More recently research has shown that the condition also runs in the families of men who father pre-eclamptic pregnancies. We knew that faulty formation of the placenta is often found in pre-eclampsia. As it is the baby's genes that produce the placenta we set out to see if we could find a link between the baby's DNA and the condition. We found there were indeed some features in a baby's DNA that can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia."

Laboratory and statistical analysis performed at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute (UK) and deCODE Genetics (Iceland) pinpointed the location in the baby's DNA that increases risk of pre-eclampsia. This location was confirmed by other InterPregGen members to fit hand-in-glove with other medical information about pre-eclampsia.

Dr Ralph McGinnis, who led the analysis at the Sanger Institute, said: "Pre-eclampsia has been recognized since ancient Egypt and Greece as being a danger to the lives of mothers and babies. This first piece of the genetic jigsaw holds substantial promise for unlocking some of the mystery of how pre-eclampsia is caused. Our finding may also enable better prediction of mothers who will become pre-eclamptic when combined with clinical information and with other pieces of the genetic jigsaw that will also surely be discovered in the next few years."

The baby's DNA comes from both its mother's and its father's genes - in keeping with the inherited risk of pre-eclampsia. The DNA changes associated with pre-eclampsia are commonover 50% of people carry this sequence in their DNA so the inherited changes are not sufficient in themselves to cause disease, but they do increase the risk of pre-eclampsia.

The research found DNA variations close to the gene that makes a protein called sFlt-1 with significant differences between the babies born from pre-eclamptic pregnancies and the control group. At high levels sFlt-1 released from the placenta into the mother's bloodstream can cause damage to her blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure and damage to her kidneys, liver and brain - all features of pre-eclampsia. If a baby carried these genetic variants it increased the risk of that pregnancy being pre-eclamptic.

Dr Morgan concludes: "Because pre-eclampsia has its origins in the very early stages of pregnancy, during the formation of the placenta, research into the causes and processes of the disease has always been challenging. Now modern genome wide screening and its data analysis allows us to look for clues in the mother's, father's and their baby's DNA. We believe the new insights from this study could form the basis for more effective prevention and treatment of pre-eclampsia in the future, and improve the outcome of pregnancy for mother and child."

DNA from a further 4,220 babies from pre-eclamptic pregnancies in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is currently being analysed in an extended study to see if the same variations occur near sFlt-1.

More information: Variants in the fetal genome near FLT1 are associated with risk of preeclampsia, Nature Genetics (2017). Journal information: Nature Genetics Variants in the fetal genome near FLT1 are associated with risk of preeclampsia,(2017). nature.com/articles/doi:10.1038/ng.3895
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and the Baylor College of Medicine will join with Guatemalan investigators in a major study examining the clinical outcomes of children infected with the Zika virus after being born, focusing on long-term brain development.

"We now know the severe effects of Zika in the fetus and the unborn child if the mother gets the infection during pregnancy," said Edwin Asturias, MD, co-principal investigator of the study and director of Latin American Projects at the Center for Global Health at the Colorado School of Public Health. "But if the virus is able to affect the developing brain of an infant or a child, this will have enormous consequences to a generation of children in areas where the virus has spread."

The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, has been approved by the Ministry of Health in Guatemala and will take place in the rural southwestern coast of that country.

Along with the Zika virus, the region is also endemic for the dengue and chikungunya virus transmitted by the same mosquito that carries Zika.

"We are enrolling infants in the first year of life and children up to 5 years of age who will be followed over one year to see if they become infected with Zika virus, and then we will be looking at the effects of the infection in the infants' and children's neurodevelopment," said Dr. Flor M. Munoz, associate professor of pediatrics in the section of infectious diseases at Baylor and principal investigator of the study. "We will look for neurologic or neurodevelopmental effects specifically, including effects on hearing and eye problems, because we know that the virus has the potential to cause central nervous manifestations."

Zika virus has been known to affect babies in utero when the mother is infected during pregnancy, but little is known about what happens when infants are infected in early life, Munoz said.

"Our concern is that a developing brain in early life can be impacted significantly," she said. "It's an important question to address not just for children that live in the endemic areas, but also for children who travel to these areas."

Recruitment for the study will take place through a clinic created by the University of Colorado's Center for Global Health in Guatemala. The goal is to follow 500 infants and their mothers for one year to determine if they become infected by the Zika virus. Neurologic exams and age-appropriate neurodevelopmental testing will be run for the duration of the study to identify changes in children infected with Zika virus.

Researchers will also be enrolling 700 children between the ages of 1 and 5 years, including 300 children known to have been exposed to dengue or Zika viruses while participating in a previous dengue study, and 400 who are siblings of the infants in this study. They will be tested periodically and evaluated for symptoms of flavivirus-like illness to determine if they have been infected by Zika, dengue or chikungunya viruses. Investigators will monitor serial neurologic examinations and developmental milestones in the children to determine if the Zika virus infection is associated with any neurologic or developmental changes.

Munoz and Asturias will collaborate with colleagues from the Fundacion para la Salud Integral de los Guatemaltecos (FUNSALUD) clinic in Guatemala. The clinic, affiliated with the Colorado School of Public Health and Children's Hospital Colorado, is led by Dr. Antonio Bolanos. It has a full complement of local investigators, nurses and laboratory technicians along with Emory University's Vaccine Treatment and Evaluation Unit (VTEU) research laboratory led by Dr. Mark Mulligan.

Neurodevelopmental testing will be conducted by three local psychologists under the leadership of Dr. Amy Connery of Children's Hospital Colorado in Aurora, Colo. The study will last three years and results will be reported throughout the study.
New Delhi, June 19 (IBNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday welcomed the first Air Freight Corridor flight from Kabul to India.

The Prime Minister thanked Afghan President Ashraf Ghani for the initiative.

Happy to welcome the first Air Freight Corridor flight from Kabul," Modi said in a statement.

"Direct connectivity between India and Afghanistan will usher prosperity. I thank President Ashraf Ghani for the initiative," the Prime Minister said.

The first flight from Kabul to Delhi establishing air freight corridor was received on Monday by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj in the presence of Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Minister of State for External Affairs M.J. Akbar and the Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to India Dr. Shaida Abdali.

The flight, which carried 60 tonnes of cargo (mainly hing) from Afghanistan, was flagged off in Kabul by Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet Ministers and India's Ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

A similar cargo flight from Delhi to Kabul had earlier carried 100 tonnes of cargo (mainly pharmaceuticals, water purifiers, medical equipments) on June 18, 2017 from Delhi to Kabul.

The arrival of the cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi marked the inauguration of the dedicated Air Freight Corridor. The decision to establish an Air Freight Corridor between Afghanistan and India was taken in the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ghani in September 2016 during the President's visit to India.

The connectivity established through the Air Freight Corridor will provide Afghanistan, a landlocked country, greater access to markets in India, and will allow Afghan businessmen to leverage Indias economic growth and trade networks for its benefit. It would enable Afghan farmers quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce.

During his visit to India in September 2016, President Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businesses to achieve a target of USD 10 billion in trade over the next five years. Keeping with this vision, we have eased our visa regime for Afghan businesspersons. Also, we have increased the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year.

Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals.

India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country. In this context, in January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan Trucks to enter the Indian territory through Attari land Checkpost for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan. India is also cooperating with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chahbahar Port. In this context, a trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed in the presence of the leaders of the three countries in Tehran in May 2016.

Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, articles of apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibres, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee/tea/meat and spices.

Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits/ nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious/ semi-precious stones, etc.
(HealthDay)Health insurers are recruiting former pharmaceutical company representatives to educate doctors and help save money on prescription medications, according to a report published June 8 in Kaiser Health News.

Noting that costs for prescription drugs have been rising faster than those for any other health segment, health plans and others paying those costs are trying to address the increases.

Capital District Physicians' Health Plan (CDPHP), an Albany, N.Y., insurer, is hiring former pharma representatives and staffing a sales force to develop cost-effective medicine. They have been able to address rising costs of prescription medications, such as Glumetza (metformin hydrochloride), manufactured by Valeant Pharmaceuticals, which reached a price of $81,270 per year. When CDPHP doctors were informed of the price, most of the 60 plan members who were taking Glumetza were switched to the generic alternative, saving $5 million in one year.

"Insurers are taking matters into their own hands," said Lea Prevel Katsanis, a marketing professor at Concordia University in Montreal, according to the article. "They're saying, 'We can't really rely on drug companies to talk to doctors about what's cost-efficient.'"

More information: More Information

Copyright  2017 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Credit: Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers

A pilot feasibility study to determine if young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents would tolerate and adhere to an office- and home-based acupuncture/acupressure intervention showed completion of all 16 biweekly sessions and measurements of their effects before, during, and after the protocol. The study design and results, which suggest further controlled studies of this intervention approach in ASD, are published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (JACM), a peer-reviewed publication from Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available free on the JACM website until July 19, 2017.

Coauthors Lana Warren, EdD, OT/L and Patricia Rao, PhD, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, and David Paton, DAc, LAc, Starting Point Acupuncture and Health Services, Catonsville, MD, identified the most positive outcome of the study as the high compliance rate, with all parents of the children ages 3-10 completing the intervention. The researchers measured the effects of the intervention on factors such as the children's behavior, ability to pay attention, sleep, and aspects of parenting stress. In the article entitled "A Pilot Observational Study of an Acupressure/Acupuncture Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder," most parents reported that the intervention had a positive impact on their relationship with their child.

"While a small study, the tolerance and adherence with acupressure this pilot are both hopeful signs for families of those in their care with autism spectrum disorder," states JACM Editor-in-Chief John Weeks, johnweeks-integrator.com, Seattle, WA.

More information: Lana R. Warren et al, A Pilot Observational Study of an Acupressure/Acupuncture Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2017). Journal information: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine Lana R. Warren et al, A Pilot Observational Study of an Acupressure/Acupuncture Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder,(2017). DOI: 10.1089/acm.2016.0257
Only one in four young adults and teens with opioid use disorder (OUD) are receiving potentially life-saving medications for addiction treatment, according to a new Boston Medical Center (BMC) study published online in JAMA Pediatrics.

Buprenorphine and naltrexone are medications used to treat OUD that help prevent relapse and overdose when used appropriately. In late 2016, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended, for the first time, that providers offer medication treatment to adolescents with OUD.

Prior studies have shown that among all adults in treatment for opioids, one-third started using opioids before age 18, and two-thirds started before age 25. Unlike methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone can be offered in the primary care setting. However, few teens receive medication due, in part, to a widespread shortage of physicians who have received a waiver certification required to prescribe buprenorphine. And, as researchers note, of all of the physicians who are certified in the United States, only one-percent are pediatricians.

"We know that experimentation with opioids often begins in adolescence, and early signs of addiction most commonly emerge in the teenage years or early 20s," said Scott Hadland, MD, MPH, MS, pediatrician and addiction specialist at BMC who led the study. "It is critical that providers caring for young people intervene early in the evolution of addiction and provide effective treatment with medication which can potentially prevent a lifetime of harm."

Researchers looked at nearly 21,000 teens and young adults aged 13-25 across the United States who were diagnosed with OUD between 2001 and 2014 and tracked whether or not they received buprenorphine or naltrexone within six months of their diagnosis. They found that 27 percent were given a medication within six months, and buprenorphine was dispensed eight times more often than naltrexone. Additionally, the diagnoses rate for OUD increased nearly six-fold from 2001 to 2014.

The study also identified sociodemographic differences in receipt of medications. Teens were least likely than young adults to receive medications, with less than 1 in 50 teens aged 13-15 and 1 in 10 teens aged 16-17 provided buprenorphine or naltrexone. Females were less likely than males to receive medications, as were African American and Hispanic teens compared to Caucasian adolescents. The underlying reasons for these gender and race differences are unknown, though researchers suggest that it may relate to access issues, denial of care or provider bias.

"Our study highlights a critical gap in addiction treatment for teens and young adults. We need tangible strategies to expand access to medications that do not worsen the gender and racial disparities we observed," said Hadland who is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine. "It's imperative that access to addiction treatment is widespread and equitable."
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

(Medical Xpress)A team of researchers with member affiliations in the U.S., France and Israel has found that a mutation in a growth hormone receptor gene can make some men live longer. In their paper published on the open access site Science Advances, the group outlines their study of several different groups of men and the differences they found for those with the growth hormone receptor exon 3 deletion.

Growth hormones are molecules that connect to other molecules that reside on the surface of a cellthese growth hormone receptors then trigger signals telling the cell to speed up its growth or in some cases to release molecules known as growth factors. Prior research has shown that for some people, there is a genetic mutation that prevents the development of certain growth hormone receptors. Such people still have receptors, but they are shaped differently. In this new effort, the researchers looked at mutation deletions in growth hormone receptor exon 3 and found that males who express it tend to live on average a decade longer, and also grow on average an inch taller.

The team first looked at a group (567 people) of Ashkenazi Jews over age 60 and at their children. They found that the mutation was present in 12 percent of men tested over the age of 100a number that was three times higher than for men 70 years old. Men with the mutation lived on average 10 years longer than those without it. They found no difference for women. The team then tested other groups, such as those participating in the Cardiovascular Health Study, the Old Order Amish and the French Long-Lived Study.

Scientists report that the prevalence of variations in a growth hormone receptor gene increased with age in four groups of long-lived individuals. Males with the variations were taller and lived approximately 10 years long. The researchers concluded that the growth receptor variant positively affects male longevity. Credit: Gil Atzmon

The researchers report finding nearly identical results among all the groups. They suggest this indicates that exon 3 is clearly involved in longevity, though they readily acknowledge that it is almost certainly one of many agents involved in the overall process. But, they also note that their results suggest that further study should be conducted with larger groups to confirm their results. If others find the same thing, further research could explore the impact of mimicking the mutation to see whether it might be possible to extend the lifespan for males and perhaps to make them a little taller if they so choose.

More information: The GH receptor exon 3 deletion is a marker of male-specific exceptional longevity associated with increased GH sensitivity and taller stature, Science Advances 16 Jun 2017: Vol. 3, no. 6, e1602025, advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/6/e1602025 The GH receptor exon 3 deletion is a marker of male-specific exceptional longevity associated with increased GH sensitivity and taller stature,16 Jun 2017: Vol. 3, no. 6, e1602025, DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1602025 Abstract

Although both growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling were shown to regulate life span in lower organisms, the role of GH signaling in human longevity remains unclear. Because a GH receptor exon 3 deletion (d3-GHR) appears to modulate GH sensitivity in humans, we hypothesized that this polymorphism could play a role in human longevity. We report a linear increased prevalence of d3-GHR homozygosity with age in four independent cohorts of long-lived individuals: 841 participants [567 of the Longevity Genes Project (LGP) (8% increase; P = 0.01), 152 of the Old Order Amish (16% increase; P = 0.02), 61 of the Cardiovascular Health Study (14.2% increase; P = 0.14), and 61 of the French Long-Lived Study (23.5% increase; P = 0.02)]. In addition, mega analysis of males in all cohorts resulted in a significant positive trend with age (26% increase; P = 0.007), suggesting sexual dimorphism for GH action in longevity. Further, on average, LGP d3/d3 homozygotes were 1 inch taller than the wild-type (WT) allele carriers (P = 0.05) and also showed lower serum IGF-1 levels (P = 0.003). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the presence of d3/d3 genotype adds approximately 10 years to life span. The LGP d3/d3-GHR transformed lymphocytes exhibited superior growth and extracellular signalregulated kinase activation, to GH treatment relative to WT GHR lymphocytes (P < 0.01), indicating a GH dose response. The d3-GHR variant is a common genetic polymorphism that modulates GH responsiveness throughout the life span and positively affects male longevity. Journal information: Science Advances

 2017 Medical Xpress
Credit: The District and Jonathan Settle

It is almost impossible for an injured heart to fully mend itself. Within minutes of being deprived of oxygen  as happens during a heart attack when arteries to the heart are blocked  the heart's muscle cells start to die. Sanjay Sinha wants to mend these hearts so that they work again.

When the body's repair system kicks in, in an attempt to remove the dead heart cells, a thick layer of scar tissue begins to form. While this damage limitation process is vital to keep the heart pumping and the blood moving, the patient's problems have really only just begun.

Cardiac scar tissue is different to the rest of the heart. It doesn't contract or pump because it doesn't contain any new heart muscle cells. Those that are lost at the time of the heart attack never come back. This loss of function weakens the heart and, depending on the size of the damaged area, affects both the patient's quality of life and lifespan.

"In many patients, not only is their heart left much weaker than normal but they are unable to increase the amount of blood pumped around the body when needed during exercise," explains Dr Sanjay Sinha. "I've just walked up a flight of stairs it's something I take for granted but many patients who've survived heart attacks struggle to do even basic things, like getting dressed. While there are treatments that improve the symptoms of heart failure, and some even improve survival to a limited extent, none of them tackles the underlying cause  the loss of up to a billion heart cells."

The numbers are stark. "Half a million people have heart failure in the UK. Almost half of them will not be alive in five years because of the damage to their heart. At present, the only way to really improve their heart function is to give them a heart transplant. There are only 200 heart transplants a year in the UK  it's a drop in the ocean when many thousands need them."

Sinha wants to mend these hearts so that they work again. "Not just by a few percent improvement but by a hundred percent."

He leads a team of stem cell biologists in the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. Over the past five years, with funding from the British Heart Foundation, they have been working with materials scientists Professors Ruth Cameron and Serena Best and biochemist Professor Richard Farndale on an innovative technique for growing heart patches in the laboratory  with the aim of using these to repair weakened cardiac tissue.

"In the past, people have tried injecting cardiomyocytes into damaged hearts in animal models and shown that they can restore some of the muscle that's been lost," says Sinha. "But even in the best possible hands, ninety percent of the cells you inject are lost because of the hostile environment."

Instead, the Cambridge researchers are building tiny beating pieces of heart tissue in Petri dishes. The innovation that makes this possible is a scaffold. "The idea is to make a home for heart cells that really suits them to the ground. So they can survive and thrive and function."

Credit: University of Cambridge

The scaffold is made of collagen  a highly abundant protein in the animal kingdom. Best and Cameron are experts at creating complex collagen-based structures for a variety of cell types  bone marrow, breast cancer, musculoskeletal  both as implants and as model systems to test new therapeutics.

"The technology we've developed for culturing cells is exciting because it is adaptable to a huge range of applications  almost any situation where you're trying to regenerate new tissue," explains Best.

Best and Cameron use 'ice-templating' to build the scaffold. They freeze a solution of collagen, water and certain biological molecules. When the water crystals form, they push the other molecules to their boundaries. So, when the crystals are vapourised (by dropping the pressure to low levels), what's left is a complex three-dimensional warren.

"We have immense control over this structure," adds Cameron. "We can vary the pore structure to make cells align in certain orientations and control the ratios of cell types. We are building communities of millions of cells in an environment that resembles the heart."

Cardiomyocytes fare better when they are surrounded by other cell types and have something to hold on to. They use proteins on their surface called integrins to touch, stick to and communicate with their environment. Farndale has perfected a 'toolkit' that pinpoints exactly which parts of collagen the integrins bind best; he then makes matching peptide fragments to 'decorate' the collagen scaffold. This gives cells a foothold in the scaffold and encourages different cell types to move in and populate the structure.

"We don't just want a cardiac scaffold  we want it to have blood vessels and the same mechanical properties as the heart," explains Sinha. "If it's going to contract and function efficiently, it needs a really good blood supply. And the whole three-dimensional structure must be strong enough to survive the hostile environment of a damaged heart."

Meanwhile, Sinha's team pioneered the production of the different cell types needed for the patch. Their starting material is human embryonic stem cells, but they have also taken adult human cells and 'reset' their dev

elopmental clock. "In theory this means we can take a patient's own cells and make patches that are identical to their own tissue. That said, millions of people are going to need this sort of therapy and so our focus at the moment is on coming up with a system where a small number of patches might be available 'off the shelf', with patients receiving the nearest match.

The team is completing tests on the ideal combination of scaffold structure, peptide decoration and mix of cells to create a beating vascularised tissue. Next, the researchers will work with Dr Thomas Krieg in the Department of Medicine to graft the tissue into a rat heart. Their aim is to show that the patch makes vascular connections, integrates mechanically and electrically with heart muscle, and contracts in synchrony with the rest of the heart. Once they've accomplished this, they will scale up the size of the patches for future use in people.

"It's exciting," says Sinha. "We are recreating a tissue that has all the components we see in an organ, where the cells start talking together in mysterious and wonderful ways, and they start to work together as they do in the body. Our vision is that this technology will bring hope to the millions of patients worldwide who are suffering from heart failure, and allow them to lead a normal life again."
Credit: Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers

Researchers compared the caffeine and chlorogenic acid components of coffee beans at different roasting levels and tested the protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the different coffee extracts in human cell models. The results, linking increasing degree of roasting to reduced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, are published in Journal of Medicinal Food.

The article entitled "Cellular Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Coffee Extracts with Different Roasting Levels," is coauthored by Soohan Jung, Korea University, Seoul, Min Hyung Kim, Jae Hee Park, and Kwang Suk Ko, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, and Yoonhwa Jeong, Dankook University, Cheonan, Korea. The researchers measured the levels of caffeine and chlorogenic acid and evaluated the effects of Coffea arabica green coffee extracts roasted at levels corresponding to Light, Medium, City, and French roast. Whereas the caffeine levels did not differ greatly between the various roasting levels, the levels of chlorogenic acid did vary and correlated with the differences shown in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

"When people think of coffee, they often associate the beverage with caffeine. However, coffee beans have many other chemicals that could help fight chronic inflammatory diseases," says Journal of Medicinal Food Editor-in-Chief Sampath Parthasarathy, MBA, PhD, Florida Hospital Chair in Cardiovascular Sciences and Interim Associate Dean, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida. "Coffee drinkers are passionate about different roastslight, medium and dark. This study suggests that some of the potentially beneficial compounds could be affected by the roasting process. This article would certainly change my coffee roast preference!"

More information: Soohan Jung et al, Cellular Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Coffee Extracts with Different Roasting Levels, Journal of Medicinal Food (2017). Soohan Jung et al, Cellular Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Coffee Extracts with Different Roasting Levels,(2017). DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2017.3935
The tenth year of data on cardiac arrhythmia treatment is being launched at EHRA EUROPACE - CARDIOSTIM 2017.

The edition marks the ten year anniversary of the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) White Book, which reports on the current status of cardiac arrhythmia treatment and has been published yearly since 2008.

Participation is open to the 56 national cardiac societies in Europe and the Mediterranean basin which make up the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) institutional membership. This year saw a record of voluntary contributions from 53 countries.

"The EHRA White Book is the only source of information for clinicians, health administrators and politicians on cardiac arrhythmia treatment in their own country and beyond," said EHRA White Book Coordinator Professor Pekka Raatikainen, Head Physician, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland.

The EHRA White Book provides data on the use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) including pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) devices, and implantable loop recorders. Details are given on interventional electrophysiology procedures such as catheter ablation, left atrial appendage closure, and CIED lead extraction.

In addition, the EHRA White Book gives statistics about country demographics, healthcare funding and reimbursement of CIEDs and procedures, education and quality control in cardiac arrhythmias, and obstacles to implementing ESC Guidelines on ICD and pacemaker implantation.

The 2017 edition will enable clinicians, administrators and politicians in participating countries to view the contemporary picture of cardiac arrhythmia treatment at home and compare it with neighbouring countries. It also has the first two year data on implantation of subcutaneous ICDs and leadless pacemakers.

Professor Raatikainen said: "The data compilation shows that there are still important discrepancies between countries in the ESC area. The highest volumes of device implantations and interventional procedures are in the Western and Northern countries. Numbers are much lower in the non-European countries particularly but also in some countries in the Eastern ESC area - societies in these countries can use the figures to lobby their governments and health administrations for more resources."

A ten-year comparative analysis of the EHRA White Book data from 2007 to 2016 will be published in an EP Europace supplement during ESC Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

Professor Raatikainen said: "The comparative analysis will show the evolution of treatment for cardiac arrhythmias and where improvements are needed."

In addition to between-country comparisons, regional figures will be compiled for Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western and non-ESC countries. The top three and lowest three countries for volumes of each procedure will be listed. A website will be launched during ESC Congress that allows countries to directly compare their data with another country.
Catherine Trask (right) and Xiaoke Zeng study farmers exposure to body vibrations (photo by David Stobbe). Credit: University of Saskatchewan

Researcher Catherine Trask and recent master's graduate Xiaoke Zeng have found that farmers experience prolonged "body shock" when riding horses or driving farming machinery on uneven terrain during an average workday. Whole body vibration is a major risk factor for developing back pain, they say.

"Farmers are often unaware that body vibration from machinery use is a potentially harmful physical hazard," said Trask, U of S Canada Research Chair in Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Health.

Almost 20 per cent of Canadians are affected by back pain, costing the Canadian healthcare system up to $12 million per year. Compared to people in cities, people in rural areas are 30 per cent more likely to experience chronic back pain.

In a 2015 study on 2,600 Saskatchewan farmers, Trask's team reported that almost 60 per cent experience low back pain, apparently a much higher incidence than in the general population. This causes farmers to reduce the amount of work they do daily in 30 per cent of the most severe casesup to eight times more than in any other profession, a 2001 study on American farmers states.

"Low back disorders really impact farmers' ability to do their jobs, especially lifting or carrying things around," said Trask.

Zeng has also found that the type of vehicle and daily use of multiple machines changes the extent of farmers' exposure to vibration.

She measured vibrations for tractors, grain trucks, pick-up trucks, combines, skid-steer loaders, ATVs, sprayers and swathers. Visiting 21 farms in 2015, she asked about 40 workers to mount special measuring equipment on their machinery seats.

"Skid-steer loaders and all-terrain vehicles showed the highest vibrations," she said. "Combines for harvesting crops and sprayers showed the lowest."

Zeng said farmers on small farms are more exposed to vibration doses daily because they are more likely to own machines with outdated suspension systems.

With a bachelor of science in preventive medicine from China, Zeng joined Trask's team two years ago. Her goal was learning new tools to better promote workers' health, a topic she became passionate about when she studied coal miners' harmful exposure to dust in China.

To limit exposure to vibrations, Trask and Zeng advise farmers to:

use newer seats for their vehicles, additional cushion pads and back supports.

have hourly breaks for walking and stretching.

In another related preliminary studythe first to measure vibrations for work-related horse riding in Canada, Zeng found that the vibration level was even higher than for skid-steer loaders.

But Zeng said the effects may not be as harmful and more research is needed on the topic, noting that horses are still a common alternative to machines for ranching.
They are bankers, accountants and computer engineersmainstream in every way but for one respect: their love of cannabis and the desire to make megabucks in a growing US industry.

This week in New York, around 120 people took part in workshops on where and how to invest in cannabis, currently an estimated $7 billion industry, on the sidelines of the fourth annual World Cannabis Congress.

Mark Giannone and his son Justin, who traveled in from neighboring New Jersey, were among the wannabe cannabis CEOs.

"Both of us love the plant. We want to get involved with the industry, we feel that there is more than just the recreational benefits," explained 31-year-old cybersecurity engineer Justin.

"We came on a fact-finding mission. There is lots of uncertainty," said his 60-year-old accountant father Mark. "I am not quite ready to roll the dice."

Patricia, currently an auditor and unwilling to give her last name because she works for the federal government, is further down the road with her plansto open a cannabis dispensary this year in Connecticut with her banker husband.

Connecticut, like New Jersey and New York, have legalized the medicinal use of cannabis. But authorities in the two states neighboring the Big Apple have only dispensed a handful of licenses in an industry that is still in its infancy.

Convinced of the virtues of cannabis and users themselves, Mark, Justin and Patricia represent a new wave of professionals wanting to invest in the sector before it is taken over by what Mark calls "Wall Street and the hedge funds."

Like Silicon Valley

Colorado became the first to legalize marijuana for recreational use in 2012. Now, a total of eight US statesincluding California and Massachusettsand the federal capital Washington have such expansive laws.

Twenty-nine states and the city of Washington have authorized the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes.

Despite the presence of ultra-conservatives in the Trump administration such as Attorney General Jeff Sessions, these budding entrepreneurs hope the sector will continue its path of rapid growthprojected to reach $23 billion by 2020.

They also hope that in the coming years a majority of states will legalize recreational use, pushing the federal government to review its position and do likewise, following other countries, particularly in Europe.

"We have seen an increasing number of mainstream individuals, from the finance world, large-scale companies from the agricultural world, the science world, very interested in getting involved," said Karson Humiston, CEO of cannabis industry placement agency Vangst who traveled from Denver for the workshop.

"We are receiving 500 resumes a day," said the 24-year-old entrepreneur, comparing the buzz to "being in the Silicon Valley when the tech industry was just taking off."

But one of the speakers, Nichole West, is upfront about the difficulties of making it work in a nascent industry.

A cannabis pioneer, she talks openly about bouncing back from bankruptcy to become, at age 32, vice president of Sweet Leaf, a company of more than 400 people that grows and sells cannabis and offshoot products.

The laws in different states are different and often confusing, creating huge uncertainty for companies, she explains.

- 'Stay away from kids!'

If the proportion of Americans favorable to legalization is growinga record 61 percent in April according to a poll carried out by CBS Newsa significant number still consider cannabis a dangerous drug.

To succeed, you must respect the hostility, West advises.

"Stay away from the kids!" she said. "All it takes is for a mom to get angry at you and then you are the devil!" she tells the class.

"Give money to rehab centers... it's really a good thing because it shows that you are aware drugs are a problem even though cannabis is not," she said.

Lots of her students, all of whom grew up thinking that smoking a joint is no big deal, seem convinced that cannabis going mainstream is only a matter of time.

They also cite latest studies showing benefits for those with certain illnesses, such as epilepsy.

"There is still some stigma, but if you look at the difference between now and five years ago, or 10 years ago when people were totally against it, it has flipped around," says Patricia.

"Once you start educating people, they start changing their minds."

 2017 AFP
As an American destroyer cruised off the waters of Japan in clear weather in the early hours of Saturday, only a few dozen of the crew of 350 were likely to be awake: standing watch, keeping the engines running, manning the bridge.

Then, Navy officers with decades of experience at sea say, there were probably minutes of sheer terror aboard the Fitzgerald before the collision with an enormous container ship that killed seven sailors.

My guess is they suddenly saw the lights of the other ship coming toward them and tried to veer off, said retired Adm. James G. Stavridis, whose book Destroyer Captain recounts his time commanding a similar ship in the mid-1990s. Suddenly your ship is sinking under you. Its terrifying.

Navy leaders on Sunday hailed the efforts of the surviving sailors who struggled to seal off compartments and pump out the water that poured in through gaping holes torn in the starboard side.
Chennai, June 19 (IBNS): Southern actress Kajal Aggarwal turned 32 on Monday.

Thanking all who wished her on the special day, the actress tweeted: "Thank u guys this was a lot of fun..overwhelmed with all d love and good wishes!! Sorry I couldn't answer all the questions, Talk soon."

She even completed a decade in the industry as colleague Rana Daggubati congratulated her for the accomplishment.

"And congrats @MsKajalAggarwal on your 10yrs in cinema and on reaching the milestone of 50films!! Proud and honoured to have worked with you," he tweeted.

And congrats @MsKajalAggarwal on your 10yrs in cinema and on reaching the milestone of 50films!! Proud and honoured to have worked with you.  Rana Daggubati (@RanaDaggubati) June 19, 2017

The actor also greeted her on birthday and said: "Wishing my dearest #Radha @MsKajalAggarwal a very happy birthday http://youtu.be/7pEX5XMpihg #NRNM #HBDKajalAggarwal."

Both the actors have worked together in upcoming Telugu political drama Nene Raju, Nene Mantri.
More people around the world are becoming interested in cryptocurrencies.

Cryptocurrencies are based on blockchain technology and function differently to regular fiat currencies.

Before investing or trading in cryptocurrency, users must follow safe security practices and know the risks involved.

While this article focuses on Bitcoin, the information applies to other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, ZCash, and LiteCoin.

Use a secure exchange

The first step in buying Bitcoin locally is registering on an exchange which allows you to purchase Bitcoin with rand.

The largest Bitcoin exchange operating in South Africa is Luno, which also offers Bitcoin storage.

Exchanges like Luno facilitate Bitcoin-to-rand trades between registered users, and all users are required to verify their identity before using the platform.

Unlike Bitcoin wallets, users access their Luno account with a username and password instead of a private key. You can further secure your banking details and Bitcoin balance by adding two-factor authentication to the account.

Storing your Bitcoin

If you plan to hold your Bitcoin for a while, there are several storage options available  besides Lunos built-in wallet  with varying degrees of security.

Keeping your Bitcoin in an exchange is not as secure as holding your Bitcoin yourself, as large exchanges have been hacked in the past.

A popular option is for users to transfer their Bitcoin to an online wallet, although the safety of these vary depending on their access methods and history.

Online wallet providers host physical Bitcoin wallets on behalf of customers, allowing users to access their private wallet from anywhere in the world.

It is important to avoid online wallet websites which require access to your Bitcoin wallet private key, as this grants them the ability to access your funds.

Instead, login options such as a keystore file paired with an encrypted password allow users to safely manage funds without the provider being able to access their wallets.

Online wallets scams have happened in the past, and due to the lack of regulation surrounding cryptocurrency, scammers are looking to target users.

The safest method for storing Bitcoin is to run a blockchain node and store your funds on physical hardware.

Hardware wallets are not as accessible as online wallets, but are far more secure.

Users can also purchase specialised hardware designed to make secure, offline wallets accessible to average consumers.

Understand blockchain transactions

Purchasing and storing Bitcoin safely is important, but users should also familiarise themselves with how a blockchain-based cryptocurrency functions.

A blockchain functions as a decentralised public ledger, meaning any user can add a transaction to the public list of transactions and it is verified by the consensus of other users.

Each user has their own copy of the blockchain which is constantly syncing with others, and anyone attempting to add a fraudulent transaction would have it rejected by other users with the correct version of the blockchain.

As Bitcoin payments boil down to certain amounts of Bitcoin being sent from one address to another, it is important that anyone transacting ensures there are no errors in the destination address.

There is no way to reverse Bitcoin transactions if a mistake is made, and the addresses are long strings of letters and numbers.

Another feature of blockchain-based currency is that while Bitcoin addresses are individually anonymous, any user can track transactions by examining the blockchain.

Cryptocurrencies are secure in the sense that they are resistant to fraud, error, or logical flaws, but are not truly anonymous unless a user never converts from or to fiat currency using a verified exchange.

Now read: We bought an Ethereum mining rig with the hope of retiring early
Cosplayer Linda Le, known as Vampy Bit Me, will return to South Africa for ICON 2018, the organisers announced.

Le said she was impressed with the local cosplayers at ICON 2017 and blown away by South African hospitality.

Le attended ICON 2017 as a special guest and served on the Master category judging panel for the events cosplay contest.

Le also confirmed that she would be bringing a friend with her to ICON 2018, but did not reveal who her companion will be.

Now read: The best cosplay from ICON 2017
The alleged owner of KickassTorrents, Artem Vaulin, is considering surrendering to the US, according to TorrentFreak.

Documents filed in an Illinois District Court state that Vaulin would hand himself over under the right conditions, stated the report.

These would include issues relating to the proper calculation of the sentencing guidelines and/or the possibility of an agreement for bond should Mr. Vaulin decide to voluntarily surrender.

US authorities are seeking Vaulins extradition from Poland.

Vaulin was arrested in Poland in 2016 after being linked to KickassTorrents through a sting operation.

Polish courts have ruled that Vaulin may be extradited to the US. It only remains to be determined whether he will be extradited.

As part of the bail conditions, Vaulin is not allowed to leave Poland.

Now read: Alleged founder of KickassTorrents out on bail
Iran citizens injured in Armenia road accident

US embassy in Armenia closed today

Karabakh MOD: Defense Army did not fire at Azerbaijan positions located in occupied territories

Armenia ombudsperson meets with Belgium colleagues

Newspaper: Armenia parliament opposition seats to no longer be empty

US intends to protect Azerbaijan from threats of Iran

Aliyev, Erdogan discuss results of tripartite meeting in Russias Sochi

Azerbaijan army fires at Armenia positions, uses mortars as well

Amazon becomes world's first public company to lose $1 trillion in market value

EU's odd couple: Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel can't stand each other

US, China set first benchmarks ahead of presidents' meeting

Iranian MFA summons Azerbaijani ambassador to carpet in connection with anti-Iranian propaganda

Washington to resist any attempt by new Israeli government to annex West Bank

Biden thinks Elon Musk's relations with other countries are worthy of being looked at

Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister tells Polish senator about consequences of Azerbaijani aggression

Armenian deputy in Vilnius talks about goals of Azerbaijan's aggressive policy

Taliban bans women from gyms

U.S. to send Ukraine another $400 million in military aid

Ursula von der Leyen announces EUR 250 million support package for Moldova

Biden and Jinping meet on sidelines of G20 summit in Bali to be held on November 14

Riches of world get poorer suddenly

State Duma deputy: Interparliamentary format Yerevan-Baku-Moscow will be included soon to solve issues

IMF sees growing risk of economic fragmentation

Armen Gevorgyan to visit Strasbourg, Brussels and Paris

State Duma deputy: Upper Lars border crossing capacity has increased fivefold

UK government freezes over 18 billion pounds worth of Russian assets

State Duma deputy on Zatulin's ban on entering Armenia: These issues must be resolved

Borrell calls for retooling EU infrastructure for rapid transport of military equipment to East

European Parliament clears way for Croatia's admission to Schengen Area

European Council President Michel calls on EU member states to jointly purchase gas to reduce fuel prices

Alen Simonyan congratulates scientists on their professional holiday

Armenian President meets with leaders of several countries in Egypt

Greece accuses Turkey of profiting from the suffering of other countries under sanctions

USAID official says she personally saw how democracy, economic development are progressing in Armenia (VIDEO)

Spain court sentences civilian to prison for spreading fakes

Armenian Embassy in Russia issues statement on Azerbaijan's actions

Indian company to supply 155mm self-propelled artillery guns worth $155mln to Armenia

Japanese minister caught in scandal for talking about death penalty

France changes its ambassador to Azerbaijan

UN General Assembly draft resolution requires Russia to pay reparations to Ukraine

Belarusian State Border Committee: Poland creates tense situation on border

Joint meeting of Armenian National Assembly and Russian State Duma Committee takes place

Iranian President says attempt to destabilize country fails

Deputy: Russian side is informed about importance of withdrawal of Azerbaijani units from the territory of Armenia

State Duma deputy: We can't imagine Russia without Armenia

Georgian PM and Armenian Ambassador discuss cooperation issues

Bali is short of armored limousines for G20 summit participants

FLYONE ARMENIA to start flights between Yerevan, Dubai

Kyodo: Emperor of Japan revealed to have prostate hyperplasia

Iranian intelligence urges Saudi Arabia not to test Tehran's strategic patience

Kazakhstan intends to ship 1.5 mln tons of oil via Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline

Former Ombudsman: 2,700 ha of Kapan community of Armenia's Syunik Province are under occupation by Baku

Armenia to ratify cooperation agreement with China

Japan and the US begin major joint exercise

Armenia soldier sustains gunshot wound from Azerbaijan shooting

Armenia legislature speaker receives deputy chair of Russia State Duma Committee for CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration

PM: If anyone thinks peace agenda is peaceful annihilation of Armenia or Karabakh Armenians, they are sorely mistaken

Armenia Premier: We have 16 missing persons since September 13 military aggression by Azerbaijan

Bitcoin is trading just above $16,000

Armenias Pashinyan: Spreading of fake news by Azerbaijan becomes prelude to new aggression

Armenia PM: Azerbaijan, with its practices, reminds of Al Qaeda and Islamic State, which discredit Islam

PM: Armenia, Karabakh propose Azerbaijan to create demilitarized zone

Pashinyan: There is no Armenia army in Karabakh

All 10 fallen soldiers transferred on October 27 by Azerbaijan to Armenia are identified, buried

Pashinyan: Armenia is going to present new proposal to Azerbaijan

$25M allocated to Armenia MOD

Biden says he will discuss Ukraine conflict at G20 summit

Pashinyan: Armenia has no obligation to construct new roads

Pashinyan: Aliyev not only threatens but is already preparing genocide of Karabakh Armenians

Armenias Pashinyan: Azerbaijan president is attempting to create invented grounds for closing Lachin Corridor

Erdogan tells what relations between Turkey and Armenia depend on

Iran says it has developed first hypersonic ballistic missile

Armenias Pashinyan: Russia peacekeepers are deployed in Karabakh indefinitely

FM Lavrov to head Russia delegation at G20 summit

Erdogan: Ankara continues mediation efforts to resolve Ukrainian crisis

Armenia to get 100mn loan to fund budget deficit

IAEA head: Talks on Iran's nuclear program ended inconclusively

Armenia PM: Aliyev grossly violated tripartite written agreement of Sochi

This year 320 people seek asylum in Armenia, 213 are from Ukraine

Erdogan speaks on trusting relationship with Putin

Gold prices remain stable

Ombudsperson in Brussels, reflects on top Azerbaijan leaderships policy of Armenophobia

Indonesian authorities: Putin won't come to G20 summit in Bali

World oil prices falling

Washington demands part of Israeli Arrow 3 for sale to Germany, be produced in the U.S.

Armenia Security Council chief meets with Lithuania officials

Armenia FM heading for Paris

Egypt launches Tax Free system for foreign tourists

Washington, Brussels don't approve German plan to resume transatlantic trade talks

Newspaper: Armenias Mirzoyan makes it clear to Blinken that wording Artsakh should be included

Newspaper: Armenia parliamentary opposition decides to return to legislative body

Polar and brown bear hybrids may appear in Yakutia due to climate change

Volkswagen releases office chair with electric motor and klaxon

Israel reveals Pulcinella secret, admitting that it used drones not only for surveillance

Chinese woman makes dresses for her daughter out of trash bags

Poland and Slovakia will increase defense spending

Audi presents new crossovers Q8 e-tron

Benny Gantz: Israel has an opportunity to strike Iran's nuclear facilities

France National Assembly speaker reaffirms solidarity with Armenia, Armenians

Samvel Babayan: Russia will withdraw peacekeepers from Nagorno-Karabakh
YEREVAN.  Karapet Moghrovyan, the driver of the passenger van that crashed in Russia on its way from Armenias capital city of Yerevan to Moscow, provided details of the accident.

I spoke with Karapet, said Aram Kocharyan, director of the company to whom the vehicle belongs, speaking to Armenian News-NEWS.am. He said that the KAMAZ[-model truck] was parked, but it abruptly started moving, and Karapet had no chance to swerve because other cars were driving from the side. He tried to stop the vehicle, but he hit the KAMAZ. They were going on the same lane.

Kocharyan added that Russian citizen Otar Nasirov, who died in the crash, also was a driver of his company, and he was heading to Moscow together with Moghrovyan.

To note, this company was carrying out unregistered passenger transport.

As reported earlier, the passenger van and the truck on Sunday collided on a highway nearby Konchinka town, in Tula Oblast (province) of Russia.

The crash claimed one life and injured nine people.

A report is being prepared regarding this accident.
The Artsakh Air Fest air festival was held on June 17, in the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic/NKR), for the first time (PHOTOS).

Armenian News-NEWS.am was on hand at the event.

The main objective of this festival was to promote tourism development in Artsakh, raise awareness of its small aviation potential, youth involvement, and stimulate interest in business projects.

Numerous foreign tourists also were among the guests of this festival.

Small flights were conducted between NKR capital city Stepanakert and Shushi town, but without landing in Shushi, and they were named: Free flight over free Artsakh.

The flights are currently only touristic, former military pilot Samvel Tavadyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am. In the future, we hope to begin training flights, too.

In addition, the festival guests had the opportunity to taste the Karabakh cuisine.

The concert in the second part of this event, however, was cut short due to Azerbaijans violation of the ceasefire and the ensuing death of four Karabakh servicemen.

Photos by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.am
New York, June 19(Just Earth News): 'Shocked and horrified' at the many lives claimed by the devastating fires that hit the PedrAgAo Grande region of Portugal, United Nations Secretary-GeneralAntAnio Guterres on Sunday expressed his deep sadness and condolences to the Portuguese Government and people.

In a statement, the Secretary-General said he spoke earlier today with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and with the Prime Minister, Antonio Costa, expressing his deep sadness.

According to news reports, the fast-moving wildfires ripped through the forested Pedrogao Grande central region of Portugal, some 150 kilometers (95 miles) northeast of Lisbon, leaving dozens dead and more injured.

I wish a speedy recovery to the injured. At this time of loss, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims, said Guterres.

The UN chief went on to commend the Government, firefighters, emergency responders and civil society organizations who are sparing no efforts to battle the wildfire and help people in need.

The United Nations stands ready to assist in any way possible, the Secretary-General concluded.

UN Photo/Mark Garten (file)

Source: www.justearthnews.com
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group hopes to continue the political dialogue between the conflicting sides.

Minsk Group Russian Co-Chair, Ambassador Igor Popov, stated about the abovementioned to reporters in Azerbaijans capital city of Baku, reported Haqqin.az news agency of the country.

We have discussed this matter both in Baku and in [Armenias capital city of] Yerevan, Popov stressed. As a result of these discussions, we can say that the presidents of the two countries are in favor of continuing the peace talks.

But he conveyed the OSCE Minsk Groups serious concern with the escalation of tension at the Karabakh conflict zone, and added that the mediators discussed this matter during their talks with the president and the defense minister of Azerbaijan.

We must do everything possible so that such a thing will not happen again, noted the Minsk Group Russian co-chair. We will do everything depending on us to ease the tension.

Also, Igor Popov noted that the co-chairs most recent message to the conflicting parties had aimed to reduce tension at the line of contact.
YEREVAN.  Another wounded soldier, Yuri Zakaryan (born in 1997), on Monday was transferred from Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) capital city Stepanakert to the Ministry of Defense (MOD) Central Clinical Military Hospital in Armenias capital city of Yerevan.

Gayane Hovhannisyan, head of the hospitals intensive care department, told about the aforementioned to reporters at the medical facility.

Zakaryan was wounded on June 17.

He is in very critical condition, he has no consciousness, he is hooked up to an artificial respiration apparatus, Hovhannisyan said.

She noted that the soldier was injured in a landmine explosion, and added that his injuries are life-threatening.

Gayane Hovhannisyan recalled that two other wounded soldiers were transferred from Artsakh to Yerevan on June 17. She informed that they are in stable condition and under medical supervision.
Image: www.finsburyparkmosque.org

London, Jun 19 (IBNS): At least one person died and 10 others have reportedly sustained injuries after a van ran over worshipers near Finsbury Park Mosque in north London, reports said.

The Incident, which has been dubbed as a 'terrible incident' by British Prime Minister Theresa May, took place on Sunday at 0020 hours.

May said, "All my thoughts are with those who have been injured, their loved ones and the emergency services on the scene."

Meanwhile, the Muslim Council of Britain slammed the incident as a "violent manifestation of Islamophbia", while urging authorities to beef up security near mosques.

Following the attack, Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn took to Twitter to express his views.

"I'm totally shocked at the incident at Finsbury Park tonight,' his tweet read.

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said that they have deployed extra forces in order to tackle the situation.

"Due to the nature of this incident extra policing resources have been deployed in order to reassure communities, especially those observing Ramadan,' the statement read.

This is the third such incident in the UK in a space of months.

At least 29 people have died in previous attacks at the Manchester Arena and the Borough Market and London Bridge attack.

A staggering number of attacks have taken place across the globe this year during month of Ramadan, most of which have been linked to several Islamist terror organisations.


YEREVAN.  The Armenian government will continue efforts to settle Karabakh conflict peacefully, in particular based on the right of people to self-determination, the action plan approved by the government says.

As to foreign policy, it is planned to deepen allied relations with Russia and participate in the creation of the regulatory mechanisms of the Eurasian Union. It is also planned to develop friendly partnership with the United States, to continue cooperation with European countries and deepen ties with neighboring Georgia and Iran. In relations with Turkey, Armenia is still ready to normalize ties without preconditions.

As for the defense alliances, it is planned to deepen cooperation within the framework of the CSTO, as well as continue the political dialogue and the Individual Partnership Action Program with NATO.

The government plans to clarify all-Armenian priorities in 2-17-22, and before the end of 2018 to create a strategy to support professional communities (doctors, lawyers, etc.) of Armenians abroad. It should be noted that the Ministry of Diaspora, which was supposed to formulate these tasks, has been operating since 2008.

As to defense sector, it is planned to create an innovative system by the end of 2020 and to strengthen cooperation of the Ministry of Defense with universities on the required specialties
YEREVAN. - The recent death of four servicemen of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR/Karabakh/Artsakh) Defense Army is on the conscience of our political figures, member of the Presidium of Congress of Refugees from the Azerbaijani SSR, Mariam Avagyan, told journalists Monday.

In her words, the Armenian political figures dont take any action and retain the liberated areas in the previous form, while the Azeris want to return them. In any case, it is necessary to speak about the format to be developed so that it is also proper for the Armenians side for establishing peace, she noted.

As reported earlier, three Armenian soldiers were killed as a result of the firing by the Azerbaijani armed forces on June 16. Defense Army servicemen Arayik Matinyan (born in 1997), Vigen Petrosyan (born in 1997) and Vardan Sargsyan (born in 1997) were fatally wounded.

In the morning of June 17, Karabakh army said Azerbaijan resorted to a new provocation as a result of which a 20-year-old soldier was killed in the morning. Two other soldiers were wounded.
BAKU The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June.

The main purpose of the Co-Chairs visit was to discuss the position of the Sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (28 April) as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone, the co-chairs said in a statement.

The Co-Chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan (10 June) and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku (19 June). In both capitals, they also held consultations with the Foreign and Defence Ministers. The Co-Chairs traveled to Nagorno-Karabakh (12 June) to meet with de facto authorities, and visited a number of territories around Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Zangelan, Kubatly, Lachin, and Kelbajar districts. In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh.

In their talks in Baku, the Co-Chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the Line of Contact, on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan. They appealed to the leadership of Azerbaijan to avoid further escalation. The Co-Chairs are sending the same message to the leadership of Armenia and de facto authorities of Nagorno-Karabakh. They encouraged the Sides to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the Line of Contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In both capitals, the Co-Chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The Presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement.

The Co-Chairs will travel to Vienna to brief the members of the Minsk Group on 3 July. They also plan to meet again soon with the Azerbaijani and Armenian Foreign Ministers to discuss modalities of the forthcoming work.
Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian on Monday made an address at the Eastern Partnership ministerial meeting.

In his speech, he noted the following:

Dear Federica, dear Johannes,

Dear colleagues,



Needless to say that approaching the upcoming summit with tangible results will contribute to the future productive cooperation in the framework of the Eastern Partnership.



These past two years we have been actively working on the implementation of the provisions of the Riga Declaration and have been able to deliver in almost all mutual commitments relating to Armenia, namely joining COSME and HORIZON 2020 programs, launching negotiations on the Common Aviation Area Agreement, as well as the Creative Europe, that we intend to finalize soon.



There are also some pending issues that we are looking forward to deal with, including the launching of the Visa Liberalization Dialogue. We count on the clear support of the EU member states in this regard.



Within a relatively short time-frame we managed to negotiate the new Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. The completion of the negotiations was announced by Presidents Sargsyan and Tusk in February in Brussels. The text has been initialed and we look forward to signing it at the upcoming summit.



Almost in parallel we discussed and agreed on the Partnership Priorities for 2017-2020. These two important documents will guide the Armenia-EU partnership in coming years and help us strengthen our mutually beneficial cooperation.



Dear colleagues,



I would like to once again highly appreciate the EUs continued assistance, including through the Eastern Partnership initiative, provided to our country over the years for the effective implementation of the reform process and institutional capacity building in Armenia. We look forward to the continuation of fruitful cooperation in this regard.



The parliamentary elections held in Armenia in April were marked by unprecedented high number of international observers, who stated that the elections were well administered, fundamental freedoms were respected, and the results reflected the will of the population. These parliamentary elections had a particular importance for Armenias transition from semi-presidential to parliamentary system of governance.



I would like to thank the European Commission and European External Action Service for providing us with 20 deliverables for 2020 document that not only offers a good action plan for the coming years but also a new revised architecture of the Eastern Partnership, which is directly linked to the performance of the partner countries within this multilateral framework and more importantly to the political will to deliver on the shared commitments.



We also believe that the principle of differentiation offers a unique opportunity to develop a multi-track or multi-layer cooperation, thus allowing us to maintain the integrity of the partnership.



Dear colleagues,



Looking forward to the upcoming Summit and our cooperation beyond it Armenia remains committed to contribute to the joint efforts in the Eastern Partnership framework.



Thank you!
Most American Workers Unprepared for Workplace Cardiac Emergencies

"The data suggests these untrained employees may be relying on their untrained peers in the event of an emergency, leaving employees with a false sense of security that someone in the workplace will be qualified and able to respond, when that is clearly not the case," said Dr. Michael Kurz, M.D., co-chair of AHA's Systems of Care Subcommittee.

DENVER -- The American Heart Association is launching a new campaign that calls for training U.S. workers to respond appropriately to workplace cardiac emergencies and also for public access to AEDs, automated external defibrillators. The association announced it June 19 and released results from new surveys that indicate most American workers aren't prepared to handle these emergencies because they lack training in CPR and first aid.

Sharing the details of the research findings with attendees of the American Society of Safety Engineers' Safety 2017 conference and expo here, American Heart Association officials said they'll be publicizing the details widely during the second half of this year. More employee training on CPR and use of AEDs is clearly needed, the surveys show, and they also point out the need for more refresher training.

There are about 10,000 cardiac arrests annually in the nation's workplaces, according to AHA, the leading voluntary health organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease.

The surveys showed most workers do not have access to CPR and first aid training and half could not locate an AED at work. More than 3,000 workers in various fields were surveyed between February and April 2017, and 2,000 employees in corporate offices, hospitality, education, and industry/labor and more than 1,000 safety managers in industries regulated by OSHA also were surveyed. Key findings from the employee study commissioned by AHA and conducted by Edelman Intelligence include these:

55 percent of the respondents cannot get first aid or CPR and AED training from their employer  and even if employers do offer this training, it is often either one or the other.

50 percent of all U.S. workers can't locate the AED where they work; in the hospitality industry, this is true for 66 percent.

"The data suggests these untrained employees may be relying on their untrained peers in the event of an emergency, leaving employees with a false sense of security that someone in the workplace will be qualified and able to respond, when that is clearly not the case," said Dr. Michael Kurz, M.D., co-chair of AHA's Systems of Care Subcommittee and associate professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine in the Department of Emergency Medicine.
Theres no shortage of articles and television shows that showcase the dishes that chefs love to cook at their restaurants. But, what do they love to eat at the end of their exhausting 16-hour days? Or on their days off? In this series, we ask Milwaukee area chefs to share their favorite dishes  both from area restaurants and for eating at home. In this edition, we talked with Chef Tony Ho of RuYi.

Chef Tony Ho was born in Hong Kong, where the influence of Great Britain was pervasive. "Growing up, it was a mishmash of so many cultures. For breakfast, wed have coffee or tea, bacon and sausage. There were also a lot of organs  kidney and liver  which were eaten for breakfast with eggs. And there was afternoon tea. I grew up with all of that, along with all the different cuisines from Chinese to Portuguese to French and German."

Ho says hes always loved food. Every kind of food. "I like to try everything," he says. But, among his favorite cuisines, he holds a special place for Italian.

"When I was 13, I moved to Tokyo, Japan," he recalls. "And my first experience eating pasta was at a Hyatt Hotel. I was 16, and I was interning there. From that point, I grew to really appreciate the differences between the Italian regions, learning the differences between all of the ingredients."

Ho moved to the Chicago, Illinois, with his family at age 23. Over the years, he worked at countless hotels and restaurants. But, by the the mid-1980s, he made the decision to move south, to Wichita, Kansas. There, he worked in a number of restaurants before taking the leap to open his own.

Soon, one thing led to another and Ho owned three successful eateries: Roma Pasta Bistro, Shanghai Gourmet and two locations of Kyoto, a restaurant specializing in Japanese cuisine. When his daughters health warranted a move in 2007, he sold his restaurants and moved to Milwaukee, where he secured a position as opening chef for RuYi.

"To this day, I still eat very widely," says Ho. "Im a very simple person, and Im not picky. But, I cant eat Asian food or sushi or rice every day. As long as the ingredients are good and fresh and the chef is good, Im happy."

Crispy bay scallop and calamari scramble at Blues Egg

"I try a lot of different dishes there, and no matter which ones I get, they are always good. The crispy blue crab cake is one of my favorites. Theres not a lot of filler in the cake, and it tastes so clean and so sweet. I also love the crispy bay scallop and calamari scramble. Thats probably my favorite. I dont know how they make the sauce, but its so rich in flavor. It comes to your tongue and you can really get all the tomato flavor. Its so delicious. Its busy for a reason. You always have to wait for a table because so many people love their food."

Dry aged porterhouse at Milwaukee ChopHouse

"I love steak. One day, a friend suggested we go to the Milwaukee ChopHouse. The service was very good. Normally order bone-in ribeye. Our waiter asked if I wanted to try the dry aged porterhouse; he assured me it was delicious. So, I ordered it. And holy cow. It was unbelievable. It was so rich in flavor and so tender. My friend ordered the ribeye, and I made him taste mine. It was so good, even better than the ribeye."

Braised short ribs at Wild Earth Cucina

"Chef Audrey (Vandenburgh) created the dish when she was executive chef at Wild Earth. And I still remember them. They were perfectly braised and absolutely delicious; there was red wine and herbs. And the meat  oh my gosh, it was so tender. It was a thick piece of meat, but the texture was so buttery. I still wish I would have asked her how she made them."

Ultimate comfort food

"I like so many different foods. But one thing I love is traditional American chicken noodle soup or chicken dumpling soup. When Im sick, the first thing I think is, 'Someone get me some chicken noodle soup.' I love it even when Im not sick. Its a great traditional American food thats just so delicious and comforting."
The latest

Downtown development spurs Buckley's restaurant expansion

It's hard to believe it's been 10 years since Buckley's opened. And soon there will be more of this beloved Juneautown restaurant to love.
New York, June 19(Just Earth News): Nearly 66 million people were forcibly displaced from their homes last year, the United Nation refugee agency on Monday reported, stressing the avery higha pace at which conflict and persecution is forcing people to flee their homes.

The figure equates to one person displaced every three seconds  less than the time it takes to read this sentence.

The report Global Trends, released by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), marks a jump of 300,000 since the end of 2015.

By any measure this is an unacceptable number, said UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, urging solidarity and a common purpose in preventing and resolving crisis.

He also called for properly protecting and caring for the world's refugees, internally displaced and asylum-seekers  who currently number 22.5 million, 40.3 million, and 2.8 million, respectively.

According to the report, Syria remains the world's biggest producer of refugees with 12 million people living in neighbouring countries and away from the region. There are 7.7 million displaced Colombians, 4.7 million Afghans and 4.2 million Iraqis.

However, in 2016, South Sudan became the biggest new factor when peace efforts broke down in July resulting in some 737,400 people fleeing by the end of the year.

Nyawet Tut, a South Sudanese mother of five in her 30s, described how soldiers set fire to her village and she had to run for her life with her own five children and five others of relatives killed in the conflict.

My husband was killed in the war which, in addition to the shortage of food, made me decide to leave my home, everything, behind, she told UNHCR staff during an interview at a temporary way station in Ethiopia.

In total, about 3.3 million South Sudanese had fled their homes by the end of the year, in what is known as the fastest-growing displacement of people in the world.

Youngest faces of war

About half of the refugee population last year were children younger than 19 years of age, according the report.

This is in contrast to the fact that children make up only about 31 per cent of the total world population.

Among its findings, the report noted that some 75,000 asylum claims were received from children travelling alone or separated from their parents. These include youngsters like Tareq, 16, who dodged armed combatants to walk out of Syria into neighbouring Turkey.

There was no future where we lived, he told UNHCR. There was no university and no work. There were troops grabbing young children like me, and they send them to war, and they get killed. I wanted to study.

Seeking refuge in poor countries

Developing countries are hosting the majority of the world's refugees, UNHCR reported.

About 84 per cent of the people were in low- or middle-income countries as of end 2016. Of that figure, one in every three people, roughly 4.9 million people, were hosted by the least developed countries.

This huge imbalance reflects several things including the continuing lack of consensus internationally when it comes to refugee hosting and the proximity of many poor countries to regions of conflict, the UN agency said.

In addition, the figure illustrates the need for countries and communities supporting refugees and other displaced people to be robustly resourced and supported, UNHCR said, warning that the absence can create instability in the host countries.

On Monday's report is being released on the eve of World Refugee Day, marked annually on 20 June.

Photo: UNHCR/Dina Diaz

Source: www.justearthnews.com
Actor / restaurateur Mark Metcalf, who writes about movies for OnMilwaukee.com, recently attended a reunion with fellow cast members from the film "Animal House."

Metcalf, who played Douglas Neidermeyer in the 1978 classic, conducted interviews with several cast members and will share the conversations with OnMilwaukee.com readers.

In this installment, Metcalf catches up with actor Stephen Furst, who played Kent "Flounder" Dorfman in the movie.

Stephen Furst is much more loquacious in person than he is in print.

The following interview was done by e-mail so his answers are a little terse. For instance, Stephen says he was delivering pizzas before he was cast in "Animal House," he means it quite literally. He delivered a pizza or two to the casting office where they were doing auditions.

Knowing that he had to go to them that they weren't likely to come find him, he took his 8" x 10" -- his resume picture, what the actor lives by, what gets him in the door, what agents are always telling you to change, and which cost probably 50 to 75 cents each -- and taped it to the inside of the pizza box so that it would be the second thing they saw -- after cheese and pepperoni -- when they opened the box.

Unfortunately, the picture hung down into the cheese and when Michael Chinich, who cast the picture, opened the box Stephen had cheese and marinara sauce all over his face.

Stephen also neglected to mention that when we shot the scene in the stable, when I am yelling at him and the horse is nipping at his shoulder, John Landis had the prop department get some carrot juice and put it all over Stephen's shoulder so that the horse would really be motivated to nip and chew at his shoulder.

We did several takes of that scene. But the most takes of any scene in the movie, and a take is when they shoot the scene over so that they have choices when it comes time to edit, or put it all together, the most takes was 18.

When Flounder is whining about how his brother is going to kill him because the car is so messed up after the road trip, and John Belushi is trying to cheer him up by crushing beer cans on his head, the two of them, John and Stephen were cracking up so much that they had to keep re-shooting the scene again and again.

They finally just settled and if you look closely you can see Stephen begin to laugh at the very end; just the corner of his mouth starts to quiver.

I worked with Stephen a lot on the film and have had a lot of contact with him since. He is a wonderful guy and a good man. It may be the inverse of Stockholm syndrome, where the hostage and the hostage-taker bond over time, but I feel a special connection to Stephen.

I used to say that he made it easy to abuse him because he was so pathetic, but if you look at all he has done as an actor in the 30 years since Animal House and what he is doing now, you can see that he is anything but pathetic. Here is a transcript of our e-mail interview:

Mark Metcalf: Was "Animal House" your first film and what were you working at, or in, before you were asked to act in "Animal House"?

Stephen Furst: Yes, it was my first film. I was delivering pizzas.

MM: Ignoring the philosophical reality that any act is a life changing experience, and thinking in terms of journalistic reality, was working on "Animal House" a life changing experience?

SF: Yes, because that film alone has made it possible to work as an actor for 30 years.

MM: What was it like working with John Landis?

SF: John is one of my very favorite directors. I absorb his energy and he just brings better work out from me.

MM: What has it been like to be part of a film that seems to be so specifically a part of the American experience?

SF: It feels great to be a part of film history. Even today, 30 years later, I have people come to me and tell me their favorite lines from the film. We are truly in a classic film.

MM: What are you doing now?

SF: I am a producer/director and currently doing a film ("My Sister's Keeper") with Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin and Joan Cusack.
When I discuss OnMilwaukee and our origins, it's clear that we wanted to help create a movement. Make great media. Move Milwaukee forward. Indeed, in the last 20 years, Milwaukees greater Downtown area has been moving  especially its hotels.

Indeed, according to Milwaukee Downtown, since 2005, more than $3.3 billion has been invested in completed private and public projects, and more than $2.6 billion is currently under construction or proposed to start soon, spurring a dramatic turnaround that has re-established Downtown as a vibrant center of commerce.

Now, the business magazine Fast Company has seen this trend thats not only Milwaukee specific, but rather "small city American." Yes, as the article headline notes, "Hoteliers have Bet Big on Small City America."

A new story by Rina Raphael captures whats happening in the hotel scene here and in other similar side cities. "From Detroit and Milwaukee to Asbury Park and Pittsburgh, investors are scrutinizing the cities profiles, looking for economic growth, young demographics and a sustainable arts culture," notes Raphael.

Yes, indeed, Milwaukee is on the move, and as this new Fast Company story notes, "the pattern is becoming familiar across the country, as hotel operators hedge their bets on up-and-coming, midsize cities. Some are already cultural hubs, others are moving in that direction. Hospitality companies are setting their sights on downtowns across the country, continuing a revival of the local city square thats been ongoing for years."

One coming soon project, at the Masonic Center, is highlighted in the Fast Company piece.

Bashar Wali is the president of Provenance Hotels, which began in Portland and has six properties there. The story notes, "The chain has now expanded to Nashville, New Orleans, Madison and, most recently, Milwaukee. The company is converting an 80,000-square foot Milwaukee Masonic Center in built in 1912 into a 220-room hotel and restaurant. The building cost $4 million  which buys you a nice apartment in Manhattan."

You merely have to walk and look around Downtown Milwaukee to witness this growth. Fast Company says, "Milwaukee, with its friendly breweries, love of motorcycles and chef-inspired restaurants, saw a 3.5% increase in visitor spending last year and a 4% increase in total tourism sales in 2015, according to the latest Economic Impact of Tourism in Wisconsin report. Its also experiencing its largest construction boom since the 1960s, with riverwalks, museums and lakefront condos in the works. For Wali, the city meets Provenances criteria for investment: a place that reflects 'a nugget of desire for doing really creative things. There needs to be a movement in the city'."

A movement, indeed. And one that you are all a part of. Onward!

Read the full Fast Company store here.
A cat buried in a 6000-year-old in Hierakonpolis, Egypt. Credit:  Hierakonpolis Expedition

DNA found at archaeological sites reveals that the origins of our domestic cat are in the Near East and ancient Egypt. Cats were domesticated by the first farmers some 10,000 years ago. They later spread across Europe and other parts of the world via trade hub Egypt. The DNA analysis also revealed that most of these ancient cats had stripes: spotted cats were uncommon until the Middle Ages.

Five subspecies of the wildcat Felis silvestris are known today. All skeletons look exactly alike and are indistinguishable from that of our domestic cat. As a result, it's impossible to see with the naked eye which of these subspecies was domesticated in a distant past. Paleogeneticist Claudio Ottoni and his colleagues from KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences set out to look for the answer in the genetic code. They used the DNA from bones, teeth, skin, and hair of over 200 cats found at archaeological sites in the Near East, Africa, and Europe. These remains were between 100 and 9,000 years old.

The DNA analysis revealed that all domesticated cats descend from the African wildcat or Felis silvestris lybica, a wildcat subspecies found in North Africa and the Near East. Cats were domesticated some 10,000 years ago by the first farmers in the Near East. The first agricultural settlements probably attracted wildcats because they were rife with rodents. The farmers welcomed the wildcats as they kept the stocks of cereal grain free from vermin. Over time, man and animal grew closer, and selection based on behaviour eventually led to the domestication of the wildcat.

Professor Wim Van Neer (Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and KU Leuven) digging up 6000-year-old cats in Hierakonpolis, Egypt Credit:  Hierakonpolis Expedition

Migrating farmers took the domesticated cat with them. At a later stage, the cats also spread across Europe and elsewhere via trade hub Egypt. Used to fight vermin on Egyptian trade ships, the cats travelled to large parts of South West Asia, Africa, and Europe. Bones of cats with an Egyptian signature have even been found at Viking sites near the Baltic Sea.

"It's still unclear, however, whether the Egyptian domestic cat descends from cats imported from the Near East or whether a separate, second domestication took place in Egypt," says researcher Claudio Ottoni. "Further research will have to show." The scientists were also able to determine the coat pattern based on the DNA of the old cat bones and mummies. They found that the striped cat was much more common in ancient times. This is also illustrated by Egyptian murals: they always depict striped cats. The blotched pattern did not become common until the Middle Ages.

Several cats buried in a 6000-year-old pit in Hierakonpolis, Egypt. Credit:  Hierakonpolis Expedition

The study is published in Nature Ecology & Evolution.

More information: The palaeogenetics of cat dispersal in the ancient world, Nature Ecology & Evolution, nature.com/articles/doi:10.1038/s41559-017-0139 Journal information: Nature Ecology & Evolution
Artificial intelligence can improve health care by analyzing data from apps, smartphones and wearable technology

Your next doctor could very well be a bot. And bots, or automated programs, are likely to play a key role in finding cures for some of the most difficult-to-treat diseases and conditions.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving into health care, led by some of the biggest technology companies and emerging startups using it to diagnose and respond to a raft of conditions.

Consider these examples:

 California researchers detected cardiac arrhythmia with 97 percent accuracy on wearers of an Apple Watch with the AI-based Cariogram application, opening up early treatment options to avert strokes.

 Scientists from Harvard and the University of Vermont developed a machine learning toola type of AI that enables computers to learn without being explicitly programmedto better identify depression by studying Instagram posts, suggesting "new avenues for early screening and detection of mental illness."

 Researchers from Britain's University of Nottingham created an algorithm that predicted heart attacks better than doctors using conventional guidelines.

While technology has always played a role in medical care, a wave of investment from Silicon Valley and a flood of data from connected devices appear to be spurring innovation.

"I think a tipping point was when Apple released its Research Kit," said Forrester Research analyst Kate McCarthy, referring to a program letting Apple users enable data from their daily activities to be used in medical studies.

McCarthy said advances in artificial intelligence has opened up new possibilities for "personalized medicine" adapted to individual genetics.

"We now have an environment where people can weave through clinical research at a speed you could never do before," she said.

Some the same artificial intelligence techniques used in the Google DeepMind Challenge to defeat a grandmaster in the board game Go can be adapted for medical uses

Predictive analytics

AI is better known in the tech field for uses such as autonomous driving, or defeating experts in the board game Go.

But it can also be used to glean new insights from existing data such as electronic health records and lab tests, says Narges Razavian, a professor at New York University's Langone School of Medicine who led a research project on predictive analytics for more than 100 medical conditions.

"Our work is looking at trends and trying to predict (disease) six months into the future, to be able to act before things get worse," Razavian said.

 NYU researchers analyzed medical and lab records to accurately predict the onset of dozens of diseases and conditions including type 2 diabetes, heart or kidney failure and stroke. The project developed software now used at NYU which may be deployed at other medical facilities.

 Google's DeepMind division is using artificial intelligence to help doctors analyze tissue samples to determine the likelihood that breast and other cancers will spread, and develop the best radiotherapy treatments.

 Microsoft, Intel and other tech giants are also working with researchers to sort through data with AI to better understand and treat lung, breast and other types of cancer.

 Google parent Alphabet's life sciences unit Verily has joined Apple in releasing a smartwatch for studies including one to identify patterns in the progression of Parkinson's disease. Amazon meanwhile offers medical advice through applications on its voice-activated artificial assistant Alexa.

IBM has been focusing on these issues with its Watson Health unit, which uses "cognitive computing" to help understand cancer and other diseases.

When IBM's Watson computing system won the TV game show Jeopardy in 2011, "there were a lot of folks in health care who said that is the same process doctors use when they try to understand health care," said Anil Jain, chief medical officer of Watson Health.

Watson Health, whose Cambridge, Massachusetts office is shown in this photo, is also part of the artificial intelligence health movement

Systems like Watson, he said, "are able to connect all the disparate pieces of information" from medical journals and other sources "in a much more accelerated way."

"Cognitive computing may not find a cure on day one, but it can help understand people's behavior and habits" and their impact on disease, Jain said.

It's not just major tech companies moving into health.

Research firm CB Insights this year identified 106 digital health startups applying machine learning and predictive analytics "to reduce drug discovery times, provide virtual assistance to patients, and diagnose ailments by processing medical images."

Maryland-based startup Insilico Medicine uses so-called "deep learning" to shorten drug testing and approval times, down from the current 10 to 15 years.

"We can take 10,000 compounds and narrow that down to 10 to find the most promising ones," said Insilico's Qingsong Zhu.

Insilico is working on drugs for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), cancer and age-related diseases, aiming to develop personalized treatments.

Finding depression

Artificial intelligence is also increasingly seen as a means for detecting depression and other mental illnesses, by spotting patterns that may not be obvious, even to professionals.

A research paper by Florida State University's Jessica Ribeiro found it can predict with 80 to 90 percent accuracy whether someone will attempt suicide as far off as two years into the future.

IBM is using its Watson supercomputer, seen in this file picture, as part of a broad effort to help medical research and health care through its Watson Health division

Facebook uses AI as part of a test project to prevent suicides by analyzing social network posts.

And San Francisco's Woebot Labs this month debuted on Facebook Messenger what it dubs the first chatbot offering "cognitive behavioral therapy" onlinepartly as a way to reach people wary of the social stigma of seeking mental health care.

New technologies are also offering hope for rare diseases.

Boston-based startup FDNA uses facial recognition technology matched against a database associated with over 8,000 rare diseases and genetic disorders, sharing data and insights with medical centers in 129 countries via its Face2Gene application.

Cautious optimism

Lynda Chin, vice chancellor and chief innovation officer at the University of Texas System, said she sees "a lot of excitement around these tools" but that technology alone is unlikely to translate into wide-scale health benefits.

One problem, Chin said, is that data from sources as disparate as medical records and Fitbits is difficult to access due to privacy and other regulations.

More important, she said, is integrating data in health care delivery where doctors may be unaware of what's available or how to use new tools.

"Just having the analytics and data get you to step one," said Chin. "It's not just about putting an app on the app store."

 2017 AFP
Schematic of the experimental set-up: The chip loaded with nanocrystals is scanned by the fine X-ray beam (green) pore by pore. Ideally, each crystal produces a distinctive diffraction pattern. Credit: Philip Roedig, DESY

An international team of scientists has for the first time used an X-ray free-electron laser to unravel the structure of an intact virus particle on the atomic level. The method used dramatically reduces the amount of virus material required, while also allowing the investigations to be carried out several times faster than before. This opens up entirely new research opportunities, as the research team lead by DESY scientist Alke Meents reports in the journal Nature Methods.

In the field known as structural biology, scientists examine the three-dimensional structure of biological molecules in order to work out how they function. This knowledge enhances our understanding of the fundamental biological processes taking place inside organisms, such as the way in which substances are transported in and out of a cell, and can also be used to develop new drugs.

"Knowing the three-dimensional structure of a molecule like a protein gives great insight into its biological behaviour," explains co-author David Stuart, Director of Life Sciences at the synchrotron facility Diamond Light Source in the UK and a professor at the University of Oxford. "One example is how understanding the structure of a protein that a virus uses to 'hook' onto a cell could mean that we're able to design a defence for the cell to make the virus incapable of attacking it."

X-ray crystallography is by far the most prolific tool used by structural biologists and has already revealed the structures of thousands of biological molecules. Tiny crystals of the protein of interest are grown, and then illuminated using high-energy X-rays. The crystals diffract the X-rays in characteristic ways so that the resulting diffraction patterns can be used to deduce the spatial structure of the crystal - and hence of its components - on the atomic scale. However, protein crystals are nowhere near as stable and sturdy as salt crystals, for example. They are difficult to grow, often remaining tiny, and are easily damaged by the X-rays.

"X-ray lasers have opened up a new path to protein crystallography, because their extremely intense pulses can be used to analyse even extremely tiny crystals that would not produce a sufficiently bright diffraction image using other X-ray sources," adds co-author Armin Wagner from Diamond Light Source. However, each of these microcrystals can only produce a single diffraction image before it evaporates as a result of the X-ray pulse. To perform the structural analysis, though, hundreds or even thousands of diffraction images are needed. In such experiments, scientists therefore inject a fine liquid jet of protein crystals through a pulsed X-ray laser, which releases a rapid sequence of extremely short bursts. Each time an X-ray pulse happens to strike a microcrystal, a diffraction image is produced and recorded.

This method is very successful and has already been used to determine the structure of more than 80 biomolecules. However, most of the sample material is wasted. "The hit rate is typically less than two per cent of pulses, so most of the precious microcrystals end up unused in the collection container," says Meents, who is based at the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) in Hamburg, a cooperation of DESY, the University of Hamburg and the German Max Planck Society. The standard method therefore typically requires several hours of beamtime and significant amounts of sample material.

In order to use the limited beamtime and the precious sample material more efficiently, the team developed a new method. The scientists use a micro-patterned chip containing thousands of tiny pores to hold the protein crystals. The X-ray laser then scans the chip line by line, and ideally this allows a diffraction image to be recorded for each pulse of the laser.

The research team tested its method on two different virus samples using the LCLS X-ray laser at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in the US, which produces 120 pulses per second. They loaded their sample holder with a small amount of microcrystals of the bovine enterovirus 2 (BEV2), a virus that can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and infertility in cattle, and which is very difficult to crystallise.

In this experiment, the scientists achieved a hit rate - where the X-ray laser successfully targeted the crystal - of up to nine per cent. Within just 14 minutes they had collected enough data to determine the correct structure of the virus - which was already known from experiments at other X-ray light sources - down to a scale of 0.23 nanometres (millionths of a millimetre).

"To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time the atomic structure of an intact virus particle has been determined using an X-ray laser," Meents points out. "Whereas earlier methods at other X-ray light sources required crystals with a total volume of 3.5 nanolitres, we managed using crystals that were more than ten times smaller, having a total volume of just 0.23 nanolitres."

This experiment was conducted at room temperature. While cooling the protein crystals would protect them to some extent from radiation damage, this is not generally feasible when working with extremely sensitive virus crystals. Crystals of isolated virus proteins can, however, be frozen, and in a second test, the researchers studied the viral protein polyhedrin that makes up a viral occlusion body for up to several thousands of virus particles of certain species. The virus particles use these containers to protect themselves against environmental influences and are therefore able to remain intact for much longer times.

For the second test, the scientist loaded their chip with polyhedrin crystals and examined them using the X-ray laser while keeping the chip at temperatures below minus 180 degrees Celsius. Here, the scientists achieved a hit rate of up to 90 per cent. In just ten minutes they had recorded more than enough diffraction images to determine the protein structure to within 0.24 nanometres. "For the structure of polyhedrin, we only had to scan a single chip which was loaded with four micrograms of protein crystals; that is orders of magnitude less than the amount that would normally be needed," explains Meents.

"Our approach not only reduces the data collection time and the quantity of the sample needed, it also opens up the opportunity of analysing entire viruses using X-ray lasers," Meents sums up. The scientists now want to increase the capacity of their chip by a factor of ten, from 22,500 to some 200,000 micropores, and further increase the scanning speed to up to one thousand samples per second. This would better exploit the potential of the new X-ray free-electron laser European XFEL, which is just going into operation in the Hamburg region and which will be able to produce up to 27,000 pulses per second. Furthermore, the next generation of chips will only expose those micropores that are currently being analysed, to prevent the remaining crystals from being damaged by scattered radiation from the X-ray laser.

Researchers from the University of Oxford, the University of Eastern Finland, the Swiss Paul Scherrer Institute, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the US and SLAC were also involved in the research. Diamond scientists have collaborated with the team at DESY, with much of the development and testing of the micro-patterned chip being done on Diamond's I02 and I24 beamlines.

More information: High-speed fixed-target serial virus crystallography; Philip Roedig, Helen M. Ginn, Tim Pakendorf, Geoff Sutton, Karl Harlos, Thomas S. Walter, Jan Meyer, Pontus Fischer, Ramona Duman, Ismo Vartiainen, Bernd Reime, Martin Warmer, Aaron S. Brewster, Iris D. Young, Tara Michels-Clark, Nicholas K. Sauter, Marcin Sikorsky, Silke Nelson, Daniel S. Damiani, Roberto Alonso-Mori, Jingshan Ren, Elizabeth E. Fry, Christian David, David I. Stuart, Armin Wagner, and Alke Meents; Nature Methods, 2017; DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.4335 Journal information: Nature Methods
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Billions of dollars could be saved if Congress revises a law to allow regulators to be more aggressive in reducing losses from insolvent banks, according to a recent study co-authored by a faculty member from Florida Atlantic University's College of Business.

The paper, published in the July 2017 issue of the Journal of Banking & Finance, calls for the adoption of a new capital ratio that accounts for nonperforming loans and loan-loss reserves.

Rebel Cole, Ph.D., professor and Kaye Family Endowed Chair of Finance at FAU's College of Business, and Lawrence J. White, Ph.D., the Robert Kavesh Professor of Economics at New York University's Stern School of Business, examined data from the years 2007-2014, during which U.S. bank regulators closed 433 commercial banks and 77 savings institutions. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the deposit insurer for these institutions, has estimated that closure costs totaled $77.5 billion.

"We found regulators were not closing banks in a timely fashion based upon the bank's publicly available reported financial condition," Cole said.

Cole and White argue that regulators acted too slowly to close financially troubled banks and that earlier closures would have significantly reduced the FDIC's closure costs. They propose using the existing minimum capital-to-asset ratio of 2 percent, but measuring capital using the "nonperforming asset coverage ratio" (NACR), a capital ratio that employs standardized write-down "haircuts" for a bank's nonperforming assets.

The Financial Choice Act legislation recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives as a replacement for the Dodd-Frank Act includes a provision calling for the comptroller general of the United States to conduct a study to assess the benefits and feasibility of replacing the current capital ratios with the nonperforming asset coverage ratio outlined in the paper.

Cole and White found that that the 433 banks closed by regulators during 2007-2014 breached the 2 percent thresholds, on average, between 12 and 18 months earlier than the actual closure date. Their empirical analysis indicates the savings from closing earlier, based on the benchmarks they propose, could have been as great as 37 percent, or about $18.5 billion.

"Our alternative capital ratios could prevent regulators from granting forbearance to insolvent banks, a practice that proved very costly during the past decade," Cole said.
The testate amoebae Lesquereusia epistomium is pictured. Credit: Yuri Mazei

An International team from China University of Geosciences, University of York and Lomonosov Moscow State University have studied the impact of wildfire on testate amoebaeone of the dominant microbial groups in peat bogs. The research has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Applied Soil Ecology.

Testate amoebae significantly affect biochemical processes in peatland ecosystems. However, little is known about the effect of such wildfires on microbial components of bog ecosystems.

Testate amoebae are unicellular organisms, largely enclosed by a shell. They comprise up to half of all microbial biomass in peatlands. Changes in their community structure under fire exposure can have significant impacts on the structure of food webs since alteration of one important food web component influences all the others. Presence of testate amoebae in a local ecosystem also has an effect on intensity of the silicon cycle.

Silicon is the second most common chemical element in the crust of the Earth after oxygen. However, only a few organisms include inorganic silicon into their cell composition, using it as a material of construction and also for performing many physiological functions. Some groups of testate amoebae can "dissolve" solid silicon-containing components from the environment and produce plates for constructing their shells. In other words, testate amoebae constitute one of the links in the silicon cycle.

The scientists studied a peatland in northeast China that was exposed to wildfire several years ago. The territory consisted of heavily and slightly burned areas due to the fact that firemen managed to put out a fire on a part of the bog. This provided the opportunity to compare communities of testate amoebae from parts exposed and not exposed to fire.

The researchers found that fire led to significant changes in the structure of the testate amoeba community. Microorganisms that make their shells out of sandgrains survived, while those using silica plates synthesized inside the cells to make shells died. The scientists assumed that amoebae making their shells out of sandgrains are more resistant to high temperatures, since their shells are thicker and more solid due to these grains of sand.

Professor Yuri Mazei from the Department of Hydrobiology at the Faculty of Biology of the Lomonosov Moscow State University has described the method of investigation of testate amoebae: "At first, testate amoebae are separated from a soil or moss substrate. After that, the flask with this suspension is intensively shaken up and passed through a number of filters so that only amoebae shells and small suspended particles are left. Afterwards, the final filtrate is put under a light microscope. Sometimes, scientists use a scanning electron microscope in order to identify species."

Researchers from the Lomonosov Moscow State University, the University of Yorkand the University of Penza have previously proved that studies of testate amoebae's communities could be an effective tool for reconstructing past climatic changes. The results obtained in this study will also allow the consideration of modern processes when conducting paleoecological reconstructions in burned peatlands.

Yuri Mazei comments on the project results: "In peatland columns. there are often layers containing charcoal, showing that the ecosystem burned at that time and these layers can contain testate amoebae. However, if you want to correctly reconstruct climate in such a layer, it's necessary to understand how testate amoeba communities respond to wildfire in current conditions. Our research has identified these peculiarities for the first time, which should improve existing approaches to palaeoreconstructions."

More information: Andrey N. Tsyganov et al, Testate amoeba transfer function performance along localised hydrological gradients, European Journal of Protistology (2016). DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2015.12.002 Journal information: Applied Soil Ecology
Illustration of DeployBots deploying themselves on a planet for space exploration. Credit: Wang et al. 2017 Royal Society of Chemistry

(Phys.org)Researchers have built the first robot made of soft, deployable materials that is capable of moving itself without the use of motors or any additional mechanical components. The robot "walks" when an electric current is applied to shape-memory alloy wires embedded in its frame: the current heats the wires, causing the robot's flexible segments to contract and bend. Sequentially controlling the current to various segments in different ways results in different walking gaits.

The researchers expect that the robot's ability to be easily deployed, along with its low mass, low cost, load-bearing ability, compact size, and ability to be reconfigured into different forms may make it useful for applications such as space missions, seabed exploration, and household objects.

The scientists, Wei Wang et al., at Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University, have published a paper on the new robot and other types of deployable structures that can be built using the same method in a recent issue of Materials Horizons.

"The main advantage of this modular robot is robustness in various environments due to lack of mechanical systems such as motors and gears," coauthor Sung-Hoon Ahn at Seoul National University told Phys.org. "Thus, problems facing motor-based robots, such as sealing and lubrication of mechanical systems in water or space environments, are not a problem for the smart actuator."

The robot, which the researchers call DeployBot, is assembled from eight modules: four for the body and one for each of the four legs. In their folded state, the modules lie flat, and after they are deployed they pop up into roughly a square shape. The modules are made of both rigid and flexible materials and contain embedded magnets that connect and lock multiple modules together. A shape memory alloy wire running through the square frame of each module is responsible for deploying and folding the modules, which takes several seconds but can be done repeatedly.

Video of a DeployBot being assembled, deployed, and walking. Credit: Wang et al. 2017 Royal Society of Chemistry

The researchers demonstrated that the DeployBot can walk with two different gaits. The first is an undulating gait, which is similar to the way an inchworm creeps across a surface. To do this, a four-step sequence of current is applied to generate an actuation wave through the robot's body, from front to back. The imbalance in frictional contact with the ground between the front and back legs causes the robot to pull up its back legs while holding its front legs in place, resulting in forward motion.

The DeployBot can also walk with an ambulating gait, similar to the way a four-legged animal walks. However, this gait requires the robot to support its entire weight on only two legs, and the robot's legs do not have enough lifting force to do thisat least, not on land. But by placing the robot under water, on the sandy surface of a water tank, the researchers took advantage of Archimedes' principle which reduces the force required to lift the robot.

Currently the robot moves very slowly, at a speed of a little over 2 meters per hour. The robot can also turn, but again at a slow rate, requiring 21 strides to turn 90 degrees. Although the robot is not fast, it could still serve as a useful tool for applications where speed is not important.

Going forward, the researchers expect that the techniques used here could also be used to make modules of different shapes, leading to a wider variety of robot designs and functions. The researchers also noted that different methods of moving the robot besides an applied current could be investigatedfor example, using pneumatic actuation, magnetic fields, or optical forces. They also suggest that the same approach used here could be used to fabricate microscale and nanoscale structures, which would open up a new range of applications.

More information: Wei Wang et al. "Modular assembly of soft deployable structures and robots." Materials Horizons. DOI: 10.1039/C6MH00550K

 2017 Phys.org
Credit: Richard Unten

Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have been around since the early 1900s. Originally used for military operations, they became more widely used after about 2010 when electronic technology got smaller, cheaper and more efficient, prices on cameras and sensors dropped, and battery power improved. Where once scientists could only observe earth from above by using manned aircraft or satellites, today they are expanding, developing and refining their research thanks to drones.

Drones can range from the size of airplanes to the size of bumblebees. They comprise part of unmanned aircraft systems that have a controller on the ground, and some form of wireless communication (usually radio signals) between the operator and the drone. Most small drones are powered by lithium-polymer batteries, while larger ones may use airplane engines. Many drones are made of carbon fiber making them light and easy to land without disturbing the environment. The Federal Aviation Administration requires that drones remain within the operator's line of sight; larger drones that fly longer distances must obtain more involved licenses that allow them to fly outside of the line of sight.

Depending on their mission, drones are equipped with different payloads or equipment. Digital cameras can identify plants and animals, and help create 3-D maps. Thermal cameras detect heat from living creatures like animals or stressed plants, as well as from water. Hyperspectral imaging identifies features of plants and water through measuring reflected light and can interpret a wider range of wavelengths than the human eye can see. LiDAR, which measures how long it takes for an emitted pulse of light to reach a target and return to the sensor, can be used to calculate the distance to an object and its height, which is used for 3-D maps.

Drones monitor rivers to help predict flooding. They identify areas that are being illegally logged. They can discern the spread of algae in water bodies, as well as saltwater intrusion. They identify plant species and detect forest tree disease.

In the energy industry, drones are being used to identify methane leaks in oil and gas production, and to monitor pipelines and wind and solar installations.

Drones are tracking sea mammals, counting animal populations and monitoring enforcement in marine conservation areas. Duke University drones recently showed that gray seals are returning to the New England and Canadian coasts due to conservation efforts. Researchers at Ocean Alliance, a Massachusetts-based whale conservation organization, used drones flying low above a whale to capture spray from the creature's blowhole. They then analyzed the collected DNA to study the whale's microbiome, stress and pregnancy hormones. Drones are also being used to keep an eye on endangered species and to combat poachers. While protecting wildlife with drones seems like an obvious application, there has not been much research done on the actual effects of drones on wildlife. One study on bears showed that they were stressed by the presence of drones.

Some scientists from the Earth Institute's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory are using drones to expand their research as never before.

The Nano Hummingbird drone is used for surveillance by DARPA. Credit: Columbia University

Alessio Rovere, junior research group leader of the Sea Level and Coastal Changes group at MARUM (University of Bremen)/Leibniz ZMT, and adjunct research scientist at Lamont-Doherty, studies coastal erosion, mangrove communities as well as the distribution of corals and the death of shallow corals (if coral bleaching is severe, drones can see it from above). In his work around the world, he uses off-the-shelf drones whose batteries last 10 to 15 minutes. The drones take many pictures at short intervals, which are later merged through software and algorithms to construct a seamless image of the area and a 3-D digital elevation model. Because coastal areas change rapidly, repeat flights at short intervals can show differences in conditions, for example, before and after a storm.

"Drones make it easy to get a very detailed view of a small area where you want to have elevation measures," said Rovere. "If I had to do a beach survey before I started to use drones, the typical thing to do is to put a GPS on your backpack and walk along the beach to actually measure points on the beachNow a drone can fly above our heads, cover the same area and get much higher resolution pictures. It saves you time and allows you to gather much higher detailed data."

For small areas, it's a powerful tool to have, he said. For big areas, he thinks it might be more convenient to have sensors mounted on a plane or use a bigger drone that can cover more area and has a longer flight time.

Einat Lev, a Lamont assistant research professor, studies volcanoes with the aim to improve eruption hazard assessments and predictions. She used a drone equipped with a camera to take thousands of photos of the 2014-2015 lava flow of the Holuhraun volcano in Iceland, one of the largest lava flows in recorded history. The photos are being used to create a 3-D digital topographic map of the flow. LiDAR scanned the topography of the main vent and a thermal camera recorded temperatures at cracks and hot springs. Because Lev and her colleagues visited the volcano not long after it erupted, the lava flow was still unstable and hot.

"The biggest advantage of using drones is that they can take you places that are very difficult to get toWe couldn't map the structure of the lava flows in Iceland in the interior part of it because it was just too difficult to reach, and the drone just flies above and gets us that data," said Lev in a video about her work.

Christopher Zappa, a Lamont associate research professor, specializes in ocean and climate physics.

In the marginalized zones (transition zones between open ocean and sea ice) of the Arctic and in the tropics, he studies how the atmosphere generates waves through wind, how waves break, and how that energy injected into the ocean affects the transfer of gases, heat and energy between the ocean and the atmosphere. Zappa uses large fixed wing drones with wingspans of 10 to 12 feet and 5 to 6-foot fuselages. These sophisticated unmanned aerial systems that can fly up to 24 hours and carry payloads of 10 lbs, require two ground crew, two flight crew and a lot of technical expertise.

Credit: Alessio Rovere

Zappa developed six payloads for drones, miniaturizing technology that he previously used on ships or manned aircraft:

Infrared imaging tells the temperature of any surface, whether ocean, ice or land. The temperature maps help determine rates of exchange between the ocean and atmosphere; the stages of ice growth, melt or refreezing; the temperature of the meltwater relative to ocean water and how sea ice drifts.

Visible hyperspectral camera can show when ice breaks up and sunlight penetrates, which can influence when phytoplankton blooms occur. Since phytoplankton absorbs solar radiation, this may lead to more ocean heat close to the surface, which can affect ice melt.

Near infrared hyperspectral imaging shows surface properties, and can reveal the ages of sea ice.

Broadband long wave/short wave radiation measures how much solar energy is coming from the sun, how much is absorbed by the surface and how much is reflected back to the atmosphere.

Meteorological turbulent fluxes measures fluxes of momentum, heat and water vapor over the ocean. This payload also includes LiDAR which can measure ocean waves that break up the ice, and determine how much ice lies out of the water and how thick is is.

Drone deployed micro-drifter is a soda-can-sized pod ejected from the drone. As it falls, it analyzes the atmosphere for temperature, water vapor and pressure. In the ocean, it becomes a micro-buoy and measures the temperature and salinity of the ocean surface at different depths. The pod conveys atmospheric information in real time back to the drone where it is stored. The ocean data is kept onboard the micro-pod; once it sees the drone, it transmits the information.

Zappa is currently developing sea ice radar that will measure sea ice thickness.

"I use all these instruments in general, but we always used them from platforms that are very big and bulky [ships]. One thing drones allow us to do is get away from these superstructures that may or may not affect the environment," said Zappa. "These UAVs [drones] allow me to get away from the ship and measure everything I want to measure in undisturbed ocean."

"Most oceanographers never cared about the top 10 meters of the ocean where the water is going to be disturbed by the ship," he said. "But everything I do is related to the top 10 meters of the ocean and the bottom 10 meters of the atmosphere, right where they interact. So for me, it's critical to get away from the ship or look at areas undisturbed by the ship, both in the atmospheric side and the ocean side. Drones allow me to do this very nicely."

Markus Hilpert, an associate professor of environmental health sciences at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, is collaborating with Lamont-Doherty on developing a drone to measure air pollution emitted by industrial smokestacks. Most air pollution data comes from ground measurements, but drones will enable the scientists to gather data about pollution at different altitudes to study how pollutants disperse in the environment. Without a drone, it would be difficult and dangerous to gather this kind of information.

At the University of Nebraska, the NIMBUS (Nebraska Intelligent MoBile Unmanned Systems) Lab is developing a variety of capabilities for drones. Prescribed fires, traditionally done by hand or helicopter, help eradicate invasive species and control wildfires by safely getting rid of excess vegetation that might otherwise catch fire. NIMBUS has developed a drone that drops ping-pong ball-sized fireball igniters. As the drone flies, the balls of ignition material are injected with alcohol then dropped to the ground. Seconds later, they burst into flames. They can be dropped in a straight line or in a particular pattern in areas that might be too dangerous or difficult to access in other ways.

A stitched aerial picture. Credit: conservationdrone.org

NIMBUS has also developed drones that can measure the height of crops, which allow scientists to study crop health and reaction to environmental factors. Flying close to crops, the drone uses a 2-D laser scanner to estimate crop height. Scientists here are also developing a drone that can pick leaves off crops so that they can be analyzed for crop health or to determine the identity of a weed.

The Nebraska lab's drone-mounted water sampling system can monitor water quality, locate toxic algae and find invasive species in hard to access areas. The drone uses a one-meter long tube to suck up water as it flies over the water body. The water is stored in vials on the drone and is measured for temperature and salinity. Some day drones could potentially carry miniaturized genetic sequencing instruments that would enable them to analyze the DNA in the samples to identify disease, and endangered or invasive species.

NIMBUS is also working on a drone that can fly to a remote sensor, determine if its battery needs to be recharged and wirelessly recharge it. Since drones could do this repeatedly, they can keep all sensors operating continuously so no data is lost. Scientists are also exploring a drone that can retrieve data from underwater ocean sensors that are able to surface.

Like the NIMBUS scientists, Zappa is a pioneer pushing the boundaries of drone capabilities. He would one day like drones to be able to fly over the ocean and measure atmospheric gases with precision. He dreams of fleets of drones with different payloads flying in formation, and he has a vision for a hybrid system combining a drone with an underwater vehicle that could fly, land on the ocean, become a submersible and sample underwater, then surface, take off and sample the atmosphere.

Drones are constantly being improvedbeing made smaller, cheaper and more capable. But while they have tremendous potential for scientific research, they have some drawbacks. Smaller ones cannot fly out of the controller's line of sight, limiting the size of the area that can be studied. Larger ones need a lot of people to run them and serious technical expertise to fly them. There is also the risk of losing a drone through accidents. And because drone use in science is still in its infancy, scientists are building the guidelines as they go, finding their way programmatically, with funding agencies and with restrictions on flying them.

"What's beautiful about drones is they do provide a new territory for making measurements which was not possible before," said Zappa. "But you still want to use the best possible instrument and platform for whatever experiment you're doing. sometimes it would be the UAV, sometimes notYou want to identify the tool that's most useful for your science goal."
Energy Secretary Rick Perry said Monday he does not believe carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to global warming, a statement at odds with mainstream scientific consensus but in line with the head of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Asked on CNBC's "Squawk Box" whether carbon emissions are primarily responsible for climate change, Perry said no, adding that "most likely the primary control knob is the ocean waters and this environment that we live in."

Perry's view is contrary to mainstream climate science, including analyses by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The EPA under President Donald Trump recently removed a web page that declared "carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas that is contributing to recent climate change."

Taking down the web page came after EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, appearing on "Squawk Box" in March, said "there's tremendous disagreement about the degree of impact" of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases on the planet.

"So, no, I would not agree that (carbon dioxide) is a primary contributor to the global warming that we see," Pruitt said.

The Nobel Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, organized by the United Nations, calls carbon dioxide the biggest heat trapping force, responsible for about 33 times more added warming than natural causes.

The panel's calculations mean carbon dioxide alone accounts for between 1 and 3 degrees warming, said MIT atmospheric scientist Kerry Emanuel.

Perry, like Pruitt, rejected the scientific consensus on climate change.

"This idea that science is just absolutely settled and if you don't believe it's settled then you're somehow another Neanderthal, that is so inappropriate from my perspective," he said.

Being a skeptic about climate change issues is "quite all right," Perry added, saying skepticism is a sign of being a "wise, intellectually engaged person."

Recently, The Associated Press sent Pruitt's comments to numerous scientists who study climate. All seven climate scientists who responded said Pruitt was wrong and that carbon dioxide is the primary driver of global warming.

Perry, in his TV appearance Monday, said there should not be a debate about whether the climate is changing or if humans have an effect on the climate. Instead, he said the debate should be on "what are the policy changes that we need to make to affect that?"

Shaye Wolf, climate science director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said Perry "has the science exactly backward."

Far from being a key cause of climate change, "the world's oceans are actually another victim of greenhouse pollution," Wolf said. "Our oceans absorb millions of tons of carbon dioxide a day, making them dangerously acidic."

Warming oceans also put "tremendous stress on marine life," Wolf said.

NASA and NOAA reported in January that earth's 2016 temperatures were the warmest ever. The planet's average surface temperature has risen about 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the late 19th century, "a change driven largely by increased carbon dioxide and other human-made emissions into the atmosphere," the agencies said in a joint statement.

Earlier this month, Trump announced he will withdraw the United States from the Paris climate accord. The agreement signed by 195 nations in 2015 aims to decrease global carbon emissions in an effort to head off the worst predicted effects of global warming, including worsening storms, catastrophic droughts and city-drowning sea level rise.

The Trump administration has also moved to roll back or delay numerous rules approved by the Obama administration to cut pollution from mining operations, oil and gas wells and coal-fired power plants.

 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Washington, Jun 19 (IBNS): American President Donald Trump, who spent his weekend at Camp David, praised the military for their maintenance of the presidential retreat.

Trump took to Twitter to shower praise on both the place and the America military following his inaugural visit to the rustic retreat nearly five months after resuming duties at the Oval Office.

"Camp David is a very special place. An honor to have spent the weekend there. Military runs it so well and are so proud of what they do!," his tweet read.

Camp David is a very special place. An honor to have spent the weekend there. Military runs it so well and are so proud of what they do!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 18, 2017

Meanwhile, Trump's positive review of the place is viewed as a change in stance from his previous stand as he once told a journalist that the destination "would be likable for about 30 minutes."

Camp David, located in Maryland, has been a destination for 13 former American Presidents.

image: POTUS/Facebook


This sketch illustrates a family tree of exoplanets. Planets are born out of swirling disks of gas and dust called protoplanetary disks. The disks give rise to giant planets like Jupiter as well as smaller planets mostly between the sizes of Earth and Neptune. Researchers using data from the W. M. Keck Observatory and NASA's Kepler mission discovered that the smaller planets can be cleanly divided into two size groups: the rocky Earth-like planets and super-Earths, and the gaseous mini-Neptunes. Credit: NASA/Kepler/Caltech (T. Pyle)

Since the mid-1990s, when the first planet around another sun-like star was discovered, astronomers have been amassing what is now a large collection of exoplanetsnearly 3,500 have been confirmed so far. In a new Caltech-led study, researchers have classified these planets in much the same way that biologists identify new animal species and have learned that the majority of exoplanets found to date fall into two distinct size groups: rocky Earth-like planets and larger mini-Neptunes. The team used data from NASA's Kepler mission and the W. M. Keck Observatory.

"This is a major new division in the family tree of planets, analogous to discovering that mammals and lizards are distinct branches on the tree of life," says Andrew Howard, professor of astronomy at Caltech and a principal investigator of the new research. The lead author of the new study, to be published in The Astronomical Journal, is Benjamin J. (B. J.) Fulton, a graduate student in Howard's group who splits his time between Caltech and the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Hawaii.

In essence, their research shows that our galaxy has a strong preference for two types of planets: rocky planets up to 1.75 times the size of Earth, and gas-enshrouded mini-Neptune worlds, which are from 2 to 3.5 times the size of Earth (or somewhat smaller than Neptune). Our galaxy rarely makes planets with sizes in between these two groups.

"Astronomers like to put things in buckets," says Fulton. "In this case, we have found two very distinct buckets for the majority of the Kepler planets."

Since the Kepler mission launched in 2009, it has identified and confirmed more than 2,300 exoplanets. Kepler specializes in finding planets close to their stars, so the majority of these planets orbit more closely than Mercury, which circles the sun at roughly one-third of the Earth-sun distance. Most of these close-in planets were found to be roughly between the size of Earth and Neptune, which is about 4 times the size of Earth. But, until now, the planets were found to have a variety of sizes spanning this range and were not known to fall into two size groups.

"In the solar system, there are no planets with sizes between Earth and Neptune," says Erik Petigura, co-author of the study and a Hubble Postdoctoral Fellow at Caltech. "One of the great surprises from Kepler is that nearly every star has at least one planet larger than Earth but smaller than Neptune. We'd really like to know what these mysterious planets are like and why we don't have them in our own solar system."

Kepler finds planets by looking for telltale dips in starlight as they pass in front of their stars. The size of the dip is correlated with the size of the planet. But in order to precisely know the planets' sizes, the sizes of the stars must be measured.

The Caltech teamtogether with colleagues from several institutions, including UC Berkeley, the University of Hawaii, Harvard University, Princeton University, and the University of Montrealtook a closer look at the Kepler planets' sizes with the help of the Keck Observatory. They spent years obtaining spectral data on the stars hosting 2,000 Kepler planets. The spectral data allowed them to obtain precise measurements of the sizes of the Kepler stars; these measurements, in turn, allowed the researchers to determine more precise sizes for the planets orbiting those stars.

Credit: NASA/Kepler/Caltech (T. Pyle)

"Before, sorting the planets by size was like trying to sort grains of sand with your naked eye," says Fulton. "Getting the spectra from Keck is like going out and grabbing a magnifying glass. We could see details that we couldn't before."

With Keck's new data, the researchers were able to measure the sizes of the 2,000 planets with 4 times more precision than what had been achieved previously. When they examined the distribution of planet sizes, they found a surprise: a striking gap between the groups of rocky Earths and mini-Neptunes. Though a few planets fall into the gap, the majority do not.

The cause of the gap is not clear, but the scientists have come up with two possible explanations. The first is based on the idea that nature likes to make a lot of planets roughly the size of Earth. Some of those planets, for reasons that are not fully understood, end up acquiring enough gas to "jump the gap" and become gaseous mini-Neptunes.

"A little bit of hydrogen and helium gas goes a very long way. So, if a planet acquires only 1 percent of hydrogen and helium in mass, that's enough to jump the gap," says Howard. "These planets are like rocks with big balloons of gas around them. The hydrogen and helium that's in the balloon doesn't really contribute to the mass of the system as a whole, but it contributes to the volume in a tremendous way, making the planets a lot bigger in size."

The second possible reason that planets don't land in the gap has to do with planets losing gas. If a planet does happen to acquire just a little bit of gasthe right amount to place it in the gapthat gas can be burned off when exposed to radiation from the host star.

"A planet would have to get lucky to land in the gap, and then if it did, it probably wouldn't stay there," says Howard. "It's unlikely for a planet to have just the right amount of gas to land in the gap. And those planets that do have enough gas can have their thin atmospheres blown off. Both scenarios likely carve out the gap in planet sizes that we observe."

In the future, the researchers plan to study the heavy-element content of these planets to learn more about their composition. "We're living in a golden age of planetary astronomy because we are finding thousands of planets around other stars," says Petigura. "We are currently working to understand what these mini-Neptunes are made of, which should help explain why these planets form so easily around other stars and why they didn't form around the sun."

The study, titled "The California-Kepler Survey. III. A Gap in the Radius of Distribution of Small Planets," was funded by NASA and the National Science Foundation.
Faster performance evaluation of 'super graphs' is shown. Credit: DGIST

Himchan Park and Min-Soo Kim of DGIST have developed TrillionG, a computer model that generates synthetic data for simulating real-world applications that use giant graphs. TrillionG is faster than currently available synthetic graph generators and uses fewer computer resources, such as memory and network bandwidth.

Graphs are used to model data in a way that clarifies the relationships between entries. Each individual entry into a graph is known as a node, while the relationships, or connections, between these entries are known as edges.

The need for super-graphs to process huge amounts of data is greater than ever before. Google's PageRank algorithm, which ranks websites in Google's search engine, is a good example. It represents the web as a giant graph, with nodes representing each individual web page and edges representing the links from one page to another. Facebook's Apache Giraph graph processor maps all users of the social media site with more than one billion nodes. Their connections with each other reach more than 1 trillion edges.

The performance of giant graph algorithms and systems needs to be tested, but this requires the availability of data. Real data can't be used due to privacy laws. So fabricated, or synthetic, data is required. But synthetic data does not always follow the same relational rules as real data. Also, currently available synthetic graph generators require the use of supercomputers, using several thousand server computers connected via a high speed network due to the exceptionally large amount of data being analyzed.

Park and Kim have proposed a new model for graph generation. It is a compromise between two other currently available models that require significant computational time and memory space. The new model reuses data that is kept in a very compact form and in a very fast computer cache memory during graph generation, making it more efficient and effective than existing models.

TrillionG generates more realistic synthetic data than both previous models and can also generate larger graphs. In addition, it can generate similar-sized trillion-edge graphs in a shorter period of time (two hours) using fewer computer resources (10 standard personal computers).

"Through extensive experiments, we have demonstrated that TrillionG outperforms the state-of-the-art graph generators by up to orders of magnitude," write the researchers in their study published in the Proceedings of the 2017 ACM International Conference on Management of Data.

The team expects that TrillionG could generate synthetic graphs the size of the human brain connectome, which consists of 100 trillion connections between neurons, using 240 standard personal computers. IT companies and universities could also use large-scale synthetic graphs as an essential tool for developing and evaluating new graph algorithms and systems.

Provided by DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)
In Benin's economic capital of Cotonou, as in many other African cities, finding a house, office or restaurant is often like a treasure hunt.

Luck, if not a miracle, is required as easy clues such as street names, even where they exist, are usually not posted and address numbers are rarely marked.

Most people in Cotonou formulate complex combinations of landmarks and directions to navigate around town.

Typical directions might be: "My office is after the big market, past the apartment block on the right with the mobile phone mast, and it's the third road on the left, tiled building."

Can't see the apartment block with the mobile phone mast? Game over, back to square one.

Sam Agbadonou, a 34-year-old former medical technician, knows how frustrating it can be to get around and describes Cotonou as a "navigation challenge".

"I was called when there were break-downs and went to health centres to repair machines that save lives," he said.

"But some centres are really in the middle of outlying neighbourhoods and it is difficult to get there."

Now, to put an end to the hassle and quickly find their destination, locals are turning to crowdsourced mapping applications adapted for use in Africa that are challenging Google Maps for dominance on the continent.

'Map party'

In 2013, when Agbadonou heard about OpenStreetMap, an international project founded in 2004 to create a free world map, he knew it was a good idea.

Agbadonou founded the Benin branch of the project, which today boasts 30 members.

With his friend Saliou Abdou, a trained geographer, Agbadonou regularly organises "map parties"field trips to identify the city's geographical data.

They start with the basicsstreet names and address numbersand move on to other details that set their maps apart from the Silicon Valley competition.

"We write down everything: the trees, the water points, the vulcaniser (tyre repairer) on the street corner, the tailor's shop... . You don't see that on Google Maps!" Agbadonou said with pride.

Thanks to his work over the last four years, Cotonou is slowly revealing itself.

For example, the Ladji district, which never used to feature on most maps, is now included.

Armelle Choplin, an urban planner at the Institute of Research for Development (IRD) in Cotonou, has no choice but to use Google Maps for her work.

But she is relying more and more on the crowdsourced maps which are more adapted to an African context.

"IGN France (the French national institute of geographic and forest information) carried out an aerial mapping of Benin between 2015 and 2016 and it should be available in September," Choplin said.

"But we don't know if we will have access or the terms."

Social inclusion

Rapid population growth, lack of regulation in real estate and haphazard urbanisation are a headache for most big cities in Africa.

Along the coast in Ghana, Sesinam Dagadu created a similar mobile app called SnooCode, which targets the poorest in society and the illiterate.

His goal is to give "an address for every man, woman and child" by issuing an individual "location code" as a substitute address.

"I wanted to make sure our system was accessible to those at the bottom of the social pyramid," Dagadu said about his app, which is free.

"Without addresses, many important features of the modern society no longer work, from tracking diseases and emergency response services to e-commerce and deliveries," said the 31-year-old.

Citizenship

OpenStreetMap is already being used by humanitarian organisations during epidemics.

Enthusiastic communities of amateur cartographers participating in 'mapathons' have been inputting geographical data from satellite images available on the internet into the online map.

Some have recently focused on the Democratic Republic of Congo, where several cases of Ebola have been reported.

In particularly remote areas of a country, maps only show the outline of roads.

The cartographers add houses and, crucially, water pointsessential data to stop the spread of an epidemic.

For volunteers or the app's creators, map-making isn't just a passion, it's become a part of what it means to be a citizen.

As geographer Abdou puts it, working on the maps is his way of "contributing to the development of my country".

 2017 AFP
Excitons are the reason we see light and colour. Credit: University of Melbourne

In a world of growing energy needs, and a global imperative to halt carbon emissions, a tiny 'quasiparticle' called an exciton could provide the answer to our problems.

Excitons are formed when light is absorbed by molecules or crystals. But they can also emit light, after they are created electrically in things like light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

Although we're just beginning to understand their potential, excitons could help us harness solar energy more efficiently, and drastically reduce the energy and environmental cost of lighting.

By name and by nature, it truly is exciting.

The Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science is a new Australian Research Council research centre led by the University of Melbourne, in partnership with other top universities and organisations from around Australia. The multi-disciplinary team of chemists, mathematicians, physicists, computers scientists and engineers are focused on manipulating the way light energy is absorbed, transported and transformed in advanced molecular materials. And they want their work to ultimately translate into everyday life.

Excitons aren't new, they are around us all the time. The reason we see light and colour, the reason our TVs and phones light up, and the reason animals like fireflies can produce light, is because of excitons. But what is new is that we now understand and can manipulate excitons on a molecular level.

"We are interested in controlling and harvesting the energy," says Centre Director Professor Paul Mulvaney. "So we harvest not the light directly, but we harvest the excitons as they are formed."

Professor Ken Ghiggino is a photochemist and his focus is on characterising the lifetime of the excitons.

"Excitons don't last very long," says Professor Ghiggino.

"It might be from femtoseconds [one quadrillionth of a second], up to nanoseconds [one thousand-millionth of a second] - but you can measure that time. We use very short pulses of light, and extremely fast 'cameras' to create graphs in femtosecond time scales. "

Excitons are formed when light is absorbed by molecules or crystals.

Professor Ghiggino says that each material has a unique exciton signature, that is characterised by how the electrons get excited, how long it takes for the energy to be released, and what happens after that.

"And right now, we can't predict their behaviour well."

The race is on to find new materials with the perfect mix of exciton properties. New synthetic materials are created in the lab by researchers such as Dr Wallace Wong at the School of Chemistry and the Bio21 Institute at the University of Melbourne, who is developing high-efficiency, flexible solar cells. These are then sent onto Professor Ghiggino to be characterised.

"We find out what sort of excitons are formed, how long they last for, and how is it related to the structure of the material," says Professor Ghiggino.

"Then we feed that information back to Dr Wong and he changes the structure of the molecule according to what we have found, and we go through this cycle again until we get the optimum properties."

But saving energy, and money, is just as much a part of the equation as harvesting energy.

"We want to know how to use sunlight better," says Professor Paul Mulvaney.

How energy is hidden in colours

"We want to develop new materials for photovoltaics, to bring the cost of solar energy down. And we want to look for new ways to use solar energy, in particular flexible solar cells, so we have more architectural possibilities for exploiting these technologies, not just the rigid roof model."

The technology could also play into reducing our emissions.

New materials for photovoltaics could bring the cost of solar energy down.

"We are also looking at the possibilities for next generation LEDs. At the moment, they are hard to manufacture at the scale, durability and quality that we need. But LEDs are the most efficient form of lighting that we know and if we could convert all the light bulbs in Australia into LEDs, then we would probably meet our emissions reduction targets," says Professor Mulvaney.

Decades in the making

For his undergraduate honours project, Professor Mulvaney worked on renewable energies. He was trying to use solar energy to make hydrogen as a fuel. But it became very clear, very quickly that is was an area that couldn't be pursued because our understanding of materials was just not good enough.

Twenty years on, and Professor Mulvaney believes the time has come to relaunch this area of research, thanks to advances in the area of new materials, particularly nanoscale materials.

"We had to wait for the materials science to catch up," says Professor Mulvaney.

"We understand the materials that form excitons a lot more now, so we want to go back and look at those big problems such as renewable energy and see if all that knowledge that we have built up over the last 20 years can help us to make breakthroughs."

While Professor Mulvaney has plenty of ideas for how we can exploit excitons, he is hoping some of the younger members of his team can come up with novel ideas that take the science in a whole new direction.

"Interestingly, around 50 per cent of Nobel prizes are given to the work scientists do before they are 35. So if we want Australia to do breakthrough science we have to give young people the resources needed to go for those big dream goals, and we need to give them a bit of freedom to do that," he says.

"I think one of the beauties of this scheme and one thing I am looking forward to, is seeing some of the whacky ideas being tried and hopefully a few converting into something successful."
UH researchers have discovered a new material that has proven an effective anode for acid and alkaline batteries, including emerging aqueous metal-ion batteries, offering the promise of safe, long-lasting batteries that work across a range of temperatures. Credit: University of Houston

Modern batteries power everything from cars to cell phones, but they are far from perfect - they catch fire, they perform poorly in cold weather and they have relatively short lifecycles, among other issues. Now researchers from the University of Houston have described a new class of material that addresses many of those concerns in Nature Materials.

The researchers, led by Yan Yao, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, report their use of quinonesan inexpensive, earth-abundant and easily recyclable materialto create stable anode composites for any aqueous rechargeable battery.

"This new material is cheap and chemically stable in such a corrosive environment," said Yao, who is also a principal investigator with the Texas Center for Superconductivity at UH, with an appointment to the chemical and biomolecular engineering faculty. The material also can be used to create a "drop-in replacement" for current battery anodes, allowing the new material to be used without changing existing battery manufacturing lines, he said.

"This can get to market much faster," he said.

Yao and his lab, including research associate Yanliang Liang, who served as first author on the paper, began the work in 2013, after he was awarded $1 million from the Department of Energy's Advanced Research Project Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) RANGE program to develop new battery technology. Other researchers involved in the project include Yan Jing, Saman Gheytani and Kuan-Yi Lee, all of UH, Ping Liu of the University of California-San Diego, and Antonio Faccheti of Northwestern University.

Energy storage is the key to wider adoption of electric cars, wind and solar power, along with other clean energy technologies. But the development of battery storage systems, which would be able to store energy until it is needed and then be recharged with additional generation, has been hampered by the lack of batteries that meet a variety of requirements: environmentally friendly, safe, inexpensive and long-lasting.

"Aqueous rechargeable batteries featuring low-cost and nonflammable water-based electrolytes are intrinsically safe and ... (provide) robustness and cost advantages over competing lithium-ion batteries that use volatile organic electrolytes and are responsible for recent catastrophic explosions," the researchers wrote. But state-of-the-art aqueous rechargeable batteries have a short lifespan, making them unsuitable for applications where it isn't practical to replace them frequently.

The stumbling block, Yao said, has been the anode, the portion of the battery through which energy flows. Existing anode materials are intrinsically structurally and chemically unstable, meaning the battery is only efficient for a relatively short time.

They worked with quinones, an earth-abundant organic material which Yan said costs just $2 per kilogram, demonstrating the material's benefits in three formulations.

The differing formulations offer evidence that the material is an effective anode for both acid batteries and alkaline batteries, such as those used in a car, as well as emerging aqueous metal-ion batteries, Liang said. That means the quinones-based anode will work regardless of which technology dominates in the future, he said.

The new material also allows the batteries to work across temperature ranges, Liang said, unlike some conventional aqueous batteries, which are notoriously balky in cold weather.

Yao said consumers would quickly notice one key difference in this change to existing battery technology. "One of these batteries, as a car battery, could last 10 years," he said. In addition to slowing the deterioration of batteries for vehicles and stationary electricity storage batteries, it also would make battery disposal easier because the material does not contain heavy metals.

The researchers have filed for three patents for the technology and hope to find partners to commercialize the technology.

More information: Universal quinone electrodes for long cycle life aqueous rechargeable batteries, DOI: 10.1038/nmat4919 Journal information: Nature Materials
Close up photograph of the self-assembling particles in the clear acrylic tube. These particles consist of cut plastic straws (blue) sealed to a flat plastic chip (black), which float on top of a water-glycerin solution. Credit: Chad Ropp/Berkeley Lab

An elegantly simple experiment with floating particles self-assembling in response to sound waves has provided a new framework for studying how seemingly lifelike behaviors emerge in response to external forces.

Scientists at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) demonstrated how particles, floating on top of a glycerin-water solution, synchronize in response to acoustic waves blasted from a computer speaker.

The study, published today in the journal Nature Materials, could help address fundamental questions about energy dissipation and how it allows living and nonliving systems to adapt to their environment when they are out of thermodynamic equilibrium.

"Dynamic self-assembly under non-equilibrium is not only important in physics, but also in our living world," said Xiang Zhang, corresponding author of the paper and a senior faculty scientist at Berkeley Lab's Materials Sciences Division with a joint appointment at UC Berkeley. "However, the underlying principles governing this are only partially understood. This work provides a simple yet elegant platform to study and understand such phenomena."

To hear some physicists describe it, this state of non-equilibrium, characterized by the ability to constantly change and evolve, is the essence of life. It applies to biological systems, from cells to ecosystems, as well as to certain nonbiological systems, such as weather or climate patterns. Studying non-equilibrium systems gets theorists a bit closer to understanding how lifeparticularly intelligent lifeemerges.

However, it is complicated and hard to study because non-equilibrium systems are open systems, Zhang said. He noted that physicists like to study things that are stable and in closed systems.

Transient response of dynamic self-assembly. Top portion shows the position of the particles (blue) while they self-assemble in response to sound that is incident from the left (red arrow). Bottom portion shows the time response of the transmission spectrum of the system (blue), which is compared to theoretical spectrum (black). The red line denotes the wavelength of the monotone input sound. Credit: Chad Ropp/Berkeley Lab

"We show that individually 'dumb' particles can self-organize far from equilibrium by dissipating energy and emerge with a collective trait that is dynamically adaptive to and reflective of their environment," said study co-lead author Chad Ropp, a postdoctoral researcher in Zhang's group. "In this case, the particles followed the 'beat' of a sound wave generated from a computer speaker."

Notably, after the researchers intentionally broke up the particle party, the pieces would reassemble, showing a capacity to self-heal.

Ropp noted that this work could eventually lead to a wide variety of "smart" applications, such as adaptive camouflage that responds to sound and light waves, or blank-slate materials whose properties are written on demand by externally controlled drives.

While previous studies have shown that particles are capable of self-assembly in response to an external force, this paper presents a general framework that researchers can use to study the mechanisms of adaptation in non-equilibrium systems.

"The distinction in our work is that we can predict what happens - how the particles will behave - which is unexpected," said another co-lead author Nicolas Bachelard, who is also a postdoctoral researcher in Zhang's group.

As the sound waves traveled at a frequency of 4 kilohertz, the scattering particles moved along at about 1 centimeter per minute. Within 10 minutes, the collective pattern of the particles emerged, where the distance between the particles was surprisingly non-uniform. The researchers found that the self-assembled particles exhibited a phononic bandgap - a frequency range in which acoustic waves cannot pass - whose edge was inextricably linked, or "enslaved," to the 4 kHz input.

Photograph of the experimental setup, which consists of a 2-meter-long acrylic tube with funnels at both ends to direct the sound from a computer speaker (bottom left) out to absorbing media (top right). A web camera is set above the setup to track the motion of the particles, and a microphone is inserted into the output funnel to measure the transmission spectrum in time. Credit: Chad Ropp/Berkeley Lab

"This is a characteristic that was not present with the individual particles," said Bachelard. "It only appeared when the particles collectively organized, which is why we call this an emergent property of our structure under non-equilibrium conditions."

The experimental design could hardly have been simpler. For the waveguide, the researchers used a 2-meter-long acrylic tube that contained a 5-millimeter-deep pool of a glycerin-water solution. The particles were made from straws floating on top of a flat piece of plastic, and the sound source came from off-the-shelf computer speakers that researchers directed into the tube via a plastic funnel. Measuring the sound waves proved to be the most technical part of the experiment.

"This is something you could do yourself in your garage," said Ropp. "It was a dirt-cheap experiment with parts that are available at your corner hardware store. At one point, we needed bigger straws, so I went out and bought some boba tea. The setup was extremely simple, but it showed the physics beautifully."

The experiment focused on acoustic waves because soundproofing was easier to achieve, but the principles underlying the behavior they observed would be applicable to any wave system, the researchers said.

This fundamental research could form the basis for developing intelligent networks that perform simple non-algorithmic computation, with a future toward systems that perform sentient-like decision making, the researchers said.

"I can think of parallels to artificial brains, with sections that respond to different frequency 'brain waves' that are malleable and reconfigurable," said Ropp.

More information: Emergence of an enslaved phononic bandgap in a non-equilibrium pseudo-crystal, Nature Materials (2017). DOI: 10.1038/nmat4920 Journal information: Nature Materials
A micrograph of the MIT researchers new device, with a visualization of electrical-energy measurements and a schematic of the device layout superimposed on it. Credit: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ordinarily, light particlesphotonsdon't interact. If two photons collide in a vacuum, they simply pass through each other.

An efficient way to make photons interact could open new prospects for both classical optics and quantum computing, an experimental technology that promises large speedups on some types of calculations.

In recent years, physicists have enabled photon-photon interactions using atoms of rare elements cooled to very low temperatures.

But in the latest issue of Physical Review Letters, MIT researchers describe a new technique for enabling photon-photon interactions at room temperature, using a silicon crystal with distinctive patterns etched into it. In physics jargon, the crystal introduces "nonlinearities" into the transmission of an optical signal.

"All of these approaches that had atoms or atom-like particles require low temperatures and work over a narrow frequency band," says Dirk Englund, an associate professor of electrical engineering and computer science at MIT and senior author on the new paper. "It's been a holy grail to come up with methods to realize single-photon-level nonlinearities at room temperature under ambient conditions."

Joining Englund on the paper are Hyeongrak Choi, a graduate student in electrical engineering and computer science, and Mikkel Heuck, who was a postdoc in Englund's lab when the work was done and is now at the Technical University of Denmark.

Photonic independence

Quantum computers harness a strange physical property called "superposition," in which a quantum particle can be said to inhabit two contradictory states at the same time. The spin, or magnetic orientation, of an electron, for instance, could be both up and down at the same time; the polarization of a photon could be both vertical and horizontal.

If a string of quantum bitsor qubits, the quantum analog of the bits in a classical computeris in superposition, it can, in some sense, canvass multiple solutions to the same problem simultaneously, which is why quantum computers promise speedups.

Most experimental qubits use ions trapped in oscillating magnetic fields, superconducting circuits, orlike Englund's own researchdefects in the crystal structure of diamonds. With all these technologies, however, superpositions are difficult to maintain.

Because photons aren't very susceptible to interactions with the environment, they're great at maintaining superposition; but for the same reason, they're difficult to control. And quantum computing depends on the ability to send control signals to the qubits.

That's where the MIT researchers' new work comes in. If a single photon enters their device, it will pass through unimpeded. But if two photonsin the right quantum statestry to enter the device, they'll be reflected back.

The quantum state of one of the photons can thus be thought of as controlling the quantum state of the other. And quantum information theory has established that simple quantum "gates" of this type are all that is necessary to build a universal quantum computer.

Unsympathetic resonance

The researchers' device consists of a long, narrow, rectangular silicon crystal with regularly spaced holes etched into it. The holes are widest at the ends of the rectangle, and they narrow toward its center. Connecting the two middle holes is an even narrower channel, and at its center, on opposite sides, are two sharp concentric tips. The pattern of holes temporarily traps light in the device, and the concentric tips concentrate the electric field of the trapped light.

The researchers prototyped the device and showed that it both confined light and concentrated the light's electric field to the degree predicted by their theoretical models. But turning the device into a quantum gate would require another component, a dielectric sandwiched between the tips. (A dielectric is a material that is ordinarily electrically insulating but will become polarizedall its positive and negative charges will align in the same directionwhen exposed to an electric field.)

When a light wave passes close to a dielectric, its electric field will slightly displace the electrons of the dielectric's atoms. When the electrons spring back, they wobble, like a child's swing when it's pushed too hard. This is the nonlinearity that the researchers' system exploits.

The size and spacing of the holes in the device are tailored to a specific light frequencythe device's "resonance frequency." But the nonlinear wobbling of the dielectric's electrons should shift that frequency.

Ordinarily, that shift is mild enough to be negligible. But because the sharp tips in the researchers' device concentrate the electric fields of entering photons, they also exaggerate the shift. A single photon could still get through the device. But if two photons attempted to enter it, the shift would be so dramatic that they'd be repulsed.

Practical potential

The device can be configured so that the dramatic shift in resonance frequency occurs only if the photons attempting to enter it have particular quantum propertiesspecific combinations of polarization or phase, for instance. The quantum state of one photon could thus determine the way in which the other photon is handled, the basic requirement for a quantum gate.

Englund emphasizes that the new research will not yield a working quantum computer in the immediate future. Too often, light entering the prototype is still either scattered or absorbed, and the quantum states of the photons can become slightly distorted. But other applications may be more feasible in the near term. For instance, a version of the device could provide a reliable source of single photons, which would greatly abet a range of research in quantum information science and communications.

"This work is quite remarkable and unique because it shows strong light-matter interaction, localization of light, and relatively long-time storage of photons at such a tiny scale in a semiconductor," says Mohammad Soltani, a nanophotonics researcher in Raytheon BBN Technologies' Quantum Information Processing Group. "It can enable things that were questionable before, like nonlinear single-photon gates for quantum information. It works at room temperature, it's solid-state, and it's compatible with semiconductor manufacturing. This work is among the most promising to date for practical devices, such as quantum information devices."

More information: Hyeongrak Choi et al. Self-Similar Nanocavity Design with Ultrasmall Mode Volume for Single-Photon Nonlinearities, Physical Review Letters (2017). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.118.223605 Journal information: Physical Review Letters

This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching.
Legumes plant. Credit: Hongyan Zhu

A group of University of Kentucky scientists have discovered a more efficient way for legumes to fix nitrogen.

Legumes have long been known for their nitrogen-fixing properties. Through a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia, which are soil bacteria, legumes can provide their own nitrogen needs and leave nitrogen in the soil for other plants to use. This reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizers, which are costly and can cause environmental pollution. But legumes differ significantly in their nitrogen fixation efficiency, and will act differently in different environments and with different bacterial strains, sometimes fixing little to no nitrogen.

Hongyan Zhu, a professor in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, and his team of researchers found two antimicrobial peptides in the model legume Medicago truncatula that kill certain rhizobial bacteria as the nitrogen fixation process begins. This model legume is closely related to the forage legume alfalfa.

"This finding offers scientists a strategy to improve nitrogen fixation in legumes by selecting or manipulating these genes to accept more bacteria," Zhu said. "This could potentially allow legumes to fix more nitrogen."

Zhu believes the original function of these antibacterial genes was to kill bacteria as they entered the plant, but they have evolved to manipulate certain bacteria to start the nitrogen fixation process. Bacteria that do not tolerate the peptides die almost immediately.

In addition to the UK researchers, scientists from Brigham Young University, University of Massachusetts, Cornell University and collaborators from Hungary and the Netherlands contributed to the study.

Zhu's research findings were published by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

More information: Qi Wang et al. Host-secreted antimicrobial peptide enforces symbiotic selectivity in, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2017). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1700715114 Shengming Yang et al. Microsymbiont discrimination mediated by a host-secreted peptide in, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2017). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1700460114 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Satellite imagery of Africa. Credit: Public Domain

The agricultural sector is the world's largest single employer. It provides jobs for more than 40% of the global population. It's also the largest source of income and jobs for poor, rural households.

It is, by and large, a successful sector. There have been huge improvements in yields and food production over the past five decades. More cereals have been produced annually during the past 40 years than in any earlier period. It is also predicted that more grain will be harvested in 2017 than in any year in history. This is as a consequence of scientific advances, increased fertiliser use and favourable rainfall patterns.

Many of these gains have been felt in Africa. Improved seed varieties, new fertilisers and pesticides, improved credit and market access have all played a role. So have scientific innovations such as improved and more reliable weather prediction, improved drought tolerance and increased resistance to extreme climatic conditions, and cross-breeding for improved efficiency.

And yet hundreds of millions of people in Africa are going hungry every day. Globally, 800 million people are categorised as chronically hungry. Around 30% of them  227 million people  live in Africa.

So where is the disconnect between food production and food security in Africa? Why does the continent spend about US $40 billion a year importing food when so many of its own residents are farmers? And how can this situation be changed?

At least part of the answer lies with science. There are already several excellent examples of ways in which science has led to dramatic increases in food production and moved farmers in some countries closer to self-sufficiency.

Science at work

A project in Uganda provides an excellent example. Ugandan scientist Robert Mwanga won the 2016 World Food Prize for his work in addressing Vitamin A deficiencies. Without Vitamin A, children are more likely to develop entirely preventable blindness. Working with people in Uganda's poor, rural areas, Mwanga set about substituting, at scale, white sweet potato  which is low in Vitamin A  with a Vitamin A-rich alternative.

In Ethiopia, Gebisa Ejeta was awarded the 2009 World Food Prize for his work on improving the food supply of hundreds of millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa by increasing the production of sorghum hybrids resistant to drought and the parasitic Striga weed.

None of these projects would have been possible without governments supporting the research that lay behind them. But much more needs to be done. Research shows that investing an extra US $88 billion in agricultural research and development globally over the next 15 years could increase crop yields by 0.4% each year.

This could save 80 million people from hunger and protect five million children from malnourishment.

Africa is behind the curve on investing in research to improve agriculture outputs. Even though all 54 countries of the African Union have signed up to successive commitments  starting with the Maputo Declaration in 2003  to increase their agricultural research budgets to at least 10% of their national budgets, few have actually done so.

At the last count only 13 had met or exceeded the 10% target in one or more years since 2003.

There's an added problem. Africa relies on external capacity for most of its scientific research in agriculture. This has undermined its capacity to use science to deliver solutions for problems unique to Africa. This needs to change. Scientific research should be Africa-based, owned and led. Investment will be key  and so will solidarity among African scientists and governments.

Using science to benefit people

In 2014 African heads of state renewed their commitment to the agriculture sector when the signed the Malibu Declaration. The core of its agenda is to connect science to benefit society by:

Identifying broad areas of science that can be developed in partnership

Strengthening national science and technology institutions

Building human capacity

Diversifying funding sources to support science

Facilitating partnerships between African institutions at a national and continental level

Sharing information, technologies, information, facilities and staff for common challenges and opportunities, and

Creating a favourable policy environment for science

In addition to this, governments need to step up to the plate and increase their research budgets. Combined with the commitment to work together, the hope is that science will increasingly be used to create a more productive, efficient and competitive agriculture sector across the continent. This is critical to improve rural economies, where most people in Africa live.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
Bovine rhodopsin. Credit: Wikipedia

Cell biologists at the University of Toronto (U of T) have discovered animals can adapt their ability to see even with extreme changes in temperature.

The researchers looked deeply into the eyes of catfish living in cold-water streams at altitudes of up to nearly three kilometres in the Andes Mountains to find out how. Their findings are published today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Vision is initiated when several chemical proteins in the retina are activated. It is a key sensory system that enables organisms to adapt to their environment, as how killer whales did to improve their ability to see underwater in predominantly blue-tinted light. Examining the impact of cold temperatures on the habitats of Andean catfishes, the team of researchers led by U of T evolutionary biologist Belinda Chang studied the role of a protein known as rhodopsin that enables vision in dim light.

They found that rhodopsin serves another function as well: it accelerates the speed at which vision occurs among the fish living at the highest - and therefore coldest - elevations.

"When we think about adaptations to the visual system, light and colour are usually the first variables that come to mind," said Chang, professor in the Departments of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Cell & Systems Biology at U of T. "These results add a new dimension to the question of how complex biological processes can adapt to extreme environments."

Vision is critical for these nocturnal animals' survival. In the high-altitude fishes, the rates at which the chemical reactions involving the protein occurred, changed. The kinetic rates sped up in order to compensate for decreases in ambient temperature.

The scientists explain that this discovery supports an established trend in metabolic enzymes, which also display accelerated kinetic rates in response to cold environments. In warm-blooded humans, the body must compensate for extreme cold by generating heat through increased metabolism and kinetic movements such as shivering.

"Cold temperatures slow the speed of biochemical reactions," said lead author Gianni Castiglione, a former PhD student and current postdoctoral fellow on Chang's research team. "We have known for decades that temperature impacts vision, yet we've never fully understood if or how evolution might have adjusted for this at the molecular level."

The team's hypothesis was that by following the fingerprints of evolution using computer models analyzing patterns in animal DNA, they could understand how cold adaptation might proceed in a complex sensory protein like rhodopsin.

"We found that natural selection was targeting two segments of the protein known to control kinetic rates. This suggests that evolution has exploited rhodopsin biochemistry as a way to modify its function at high altitudes," said Castiglione.

To test this hypothesis, the researchers manipulated the DNA of several specimens of fish previously collected by Nathan Lujan in the Department of Biological Science at the University of Toronto Scarborough. They created mutations in the rhodopsin protein, swapping out amino acids present in specimens found at lower elevations, with the rare variants found within the high-altitude varieties. This was how they confirmed that the high-altitude mutations, while having only limited effects on the light- and colour-related functions of rhodopsin, significantly accelerated the kinetic properties of the protein that determine visual performance in cold-blooded animals.

"Essentially, we were investigating non-model organisms that are not typically studied by scientists, which can be a useful way to approach important questions in evolutionary biology," says co-author and PhD candidate Frances Hauser. "Our results demonstrate that multiple environmental influences should be considered when studying the evolution of complex proteins".

The importance of demonstrating this trend within rhodopsin is that the protein itself represents a massive family of other proteins with functions of similar importance throughout an animal's body. This group, known as G protein-coupled receptors, also forms one of the largest and most important drug targets in current treatments of human disease. Therefore, their approach and findings may also contribute to better understanding of how genetic mutations can cause human disease.

"What is especially interesting about this is that natural selection modified protein function by indirectly affecting structural regions that normally cause human disease when mutated," said Chang. "Since high-altitude mutations are on the periphery of these regions, they were not immediately obvious targets of natural selection, and we needed to confirm their effects on protein function experimentally.

"Our interdisciplinary approach to protein science relies on clues from evolution to uncover novel aspects of protein structure and function difficult to discover with conventional approaches."
Washington, Jun 19 (IBNS): A US-led coalition fighter jet has shot down a Syrian army plane in Raqqa province, reports said.

Confirming the operation, the Pentagon said that the SU-22 fighter bomber was engaged by an F/A-18E Super Hornet after the former dropped munitions near U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces fighters.

The US army's air-to-air strike involving manned aircraft took place almost after two decades.

A similar incident had taken place in 1999 during the Kosovo campaign when the U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon shot down a Serbian MiG-29.

"Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force and stopped the initial pro-regime advance toward the SDF-controlled town,' a Pentagon release read.

"The demonstrated hostile intent and actions of pro-regime forces toward Coalition and partner forces in Syria conducting legitimate counter-Isis (IS) operations will not be tolerated," it said.

It further added that the US will not be hesitant in defending its partners from any threat.

"The coalition does not seek to fight Syrian regime, Russian, or pro-regime forces partnered with them, but will not hesitate to defend coalition or partner forces from any threat," it read.

Meanwhile, Syria has slammed the incident as a 'flagrant attack'.

In a statement, the Syrian army said that the "flagrant attack was an attempt to undermine the efforts of the army as the only effective force capable with its allies... in fighting terrorism across its territory."

In wake of the conflict, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has urged other countries to respect the 'sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria'.

The US and Syria is at loggerheads for a few years now.

Earlier, in 2016, the US coalition expressed regret after killing 62 Syrian army in an airstrike, which was initially aimed for the IS.

The US also launched US launched 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Syria's Shayrat airbase in April, earlier this year, in response to a suspected chemical weapons attack by the Syrian government in the country's Idlib province.

The Donald Trump led country also shot down a pro Syrian government armed drone earlier this month after it fired at US-coalition forces near the al-Tanf border crossing, between Syria and Iraq.

Meanwhile, the constant fighting in Raqqa has forced civilians to flee their home country in order to look for a safer place.

According to a UN report, over 100,000 people have left the province in the month of May.

According to global watchdog UNHCR, the lack of funding is also responsible for the worsening civilian crisis in Syria.

"Funding is not keeping up with needs on the ground," a UNHCR spokesperson said, while adding "It is vital to have access, resources and security to continue responding to this latest wave of displacement and suffering to hit already beleaguered and terrified civilians."



File Image: USA Airforce
Marieme Assietou Diagne, who manages a health food delivery business, says she has gained "more free time and better sales" since using the Weebi app

Corner shops, markets and street traders are still the traditional way most Senegalese do their shopping, but micro-businesses are turning to digital means of tracking clients in the west African nation's informal economy.

Amadou Bawol Bah, like many owners of the corner "boutiques" in Senegal, used to have a large ledger he filled in each day with purchases and credit offered to his customers.

"One day I was filling in some details and some cooking oil tipped onto the ledger," he recalled of the moment in 2015 that wiped out years of careful bookkeeping.

Bawol Bah's disaster became the inspiration for a locally-designed app called "Weebi", meaning "easy" in the local Pulaar language, and the trader hasn't looked back since downloading it.

"Weebi simplifies sales and my invoices. The tablet and smartphone replaces the notebook and pen," explained Weebi's co-founder Cheikh Sene, who began his start-up with two other Senegalese and a Frenchman.

A micro-printer for receipts completes the mix, Sene added.

App ambitions

Around half of Senegal's registered businesses are one-man traders like Bawol Bah, according to government statistics, and operate at thin margins with clients often reliant on credit paid back at the end of the month.

In the case of accidents like Bawol Bah's, the app comes with confidential backup for each user, according to Weebi, so data remains safe in case of loss or damage to a device.

After winning a prize for digital innovation at the Africa-France summit held in Bamako in January, Weebi's ambitions are growing in the capital.

Senegalese co-founder of the Weebi start-up Cheikh Sene

Although just 40 users so far have the app, which is a standalone download or can be bought for 118,000 FCFA ($200) preloaded onto a tablet, 300 clients have shown an interest in the product in the Dakar area.

Marieme Assietou Diagne, who manages a health food delivery business, says she has gained "more free time and better sales" since using the software.

"It helps us to follow clientswho are the regulars, the number of orders, and how many meals we are selling per day," she told AFP. "We can reward loyal customers at the end of the month."

Overcoming illiteracy

Other small business owners have begun using "Somtou", a console launched in May with an interface specifically designed for Senegal's majority illiterate population that works with icons and voice commands.

The upstart costs of buying a laptop and the electricity required to run it all day are prohibitive for most, and training in accountancy programmes or software such as Microsoft Excel hard to come by without paying for classes.

With sturdy casing and bright graphics, Somtou is aimed squarely at market traders and small businesses, said its Cameroonian creator Ted Boulou.

"It allows those in the informal sector to manage their work more effectively, and gives them more precise estimates of income, revenue and clients," Boulou said.

That can empower them to better bargain wholesale costs and promotions, making businesses more effective, he added, while filing of tax returns and other government documents became simpler and more accurate.

Pricing is also flexible for clients without much upfront cash.

"Some will pay 13,000 FCFA ($22) per month for two years, or 500 FCFA (85 US cents) a day for two years," Boulou explained, as the single payment of 275,000 FCFA was prohibitive for manyand he has taken 100 orders.

 2017 AFP
A primate named Wilson and his cohort jointly test the boundaries of their group's region. Credit: Kevin E. Langergraber

Territorial boundary patrolling by chimpanzees is a striking example of group-level cooperation displayed by our closest primate relatives.

Chimpanzees patrol in groups for the same reason wolves hunt in packs, because what they can achieve working together far exceeds the returns of more individualized efforts.

Patrols are conspicuous events that occur when multiple individuals, typically male, travel to the peripheries of their territory and sometimes deep into those of their neighbors. During these incursions, patrollers become hypervigilant and behave in other ways that suggest they are actively searching for neighbors. If the patrolling males find members of a rival group, they will attack and sometimes even kill them.

Unlike other animals, who will fight when groups happen to meet at the edges of their territories, male chimpanzees seem to deliberately search for neighbors while on patrols, potentially putting themselves in harm's way for uncertain gains.

So why do male chimpanzees choose to patrol when such forays may lead to violent, even lethal, encounters with members of neighboring groups? Patrols may benefit everyone by increasing the size of the territory and the food supply, but individuals also have the option to shirk patrol duty since unhelpful members are not punished or ostracized.

To determine how male chimpanzees manage to achieve and maintain this remarkable form of cooperation, researchersled by Kevin Langergraber of Arizona State University's School of Human Evolution and Social Change and Institute of Human Originsexamined twenty years of data on who participated in patrols in a 200-member-strong Ngogo community of chimpanzees within Kibale National Park, Uganda. The results of this study are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

By combining analyses of patrol participation with results of paternity testing on 122 group offspring, Langergraber and colleagues found that, over the long run, patrolling paid off because it increased group size, which is important in determining success in competition against other groups.

"The Ngogo chimpanzees patrol and kill neighbors more frequently than any other chimpanzee group," says John Mitani of the University of Michigan, who has studied these particular primates for 22 years.

By 2009, the group expanded the size of their territory by 22 percent over the previous decade after killing 13 individuals from a neighboring group. Because of their success in competition against other groups, the Ngogo chimpanzees benefit from an unusually good food supply and long life expectancies.

But patrolling is a potentially dangerous as well as energy-sapping activity, and time spent patrolling is time that cannot be spent eating or mating with females in the safety of the territory. The study showed that males varied in how often they patrolled, and it was no surprise that high-ranking individuals, who were likely to be in good physical condition, participated frequently.

In addition, males who had more offspring living in the group, and thus more to gain by territorial expansion, patrolled often. However, not all patrolling events could be explained by such short-term benefits, as many males patrolled when they had no offspring or other relatives living in the group to protect.

Why should males pay the costs of patrolling to benefit the relatives of other individuals? In this large group, reproduction was not monopolized by a few high-ranking males. Males who patrolled when they had no offspring were thus very likely to reproduce in the future.

So even if a male has nothing to gain by protecting relatives now, by patrolling and thereby protecting and increasing the size of the group, he can gain in the long run.

"We know that humans have means ranging from gossip to drastic punishment to aid cooperation in group settings," Langergraber says. "The puzzle has been to explain cooperation in animal societies, where shirking would seem an attractive option."

Most studies have focused on short term benefits of cooperation, he adds, "but our study shows the benefit of long-term data collection, and also that we still have a lot to learn from these chimpanzees."
Gig workers saw their work as flexible but also with its risks. Credit: Reynaldo Vasconcelos/Newzulu/AAP

Uber driver Michelle, thinks her job is fantastic when she's only after part-time hours. But she's given it a couple of months and she says she's not getting anywhere.

To be able to earn A$800 she has to actually pull in A$1,500, averaging 70 hours a week. The money per hour can be good, but only when it really picks up. Looking at the current job market, she doesn't want to do two full-time jobs to make the same amount of money that she used to earn in an office, working half the time.

She feels exhausted. She used to think people in Melbourne were good drivers, but now that she's been driving all day, she sees a fair amount of aggression. Six weeks ago she was trying to merge into traffic and a man in a ute next to her showed her a crowbar.

Her latest day off she spent sleeping because she was so tired.

Michelle (not her real name) was one of our study participants. We interviewed 60 ridesharing and food delivery workers like her. And the reality of their experiences is far more nuanced than others make out.

Work in the "gig economy" is often depicted as flexible by businesses and those who run the platforms that offer work, or as exploitative by labour activists and commentators.

A key finding is that gig workers arbitrate between the costs and benefits of gig work. Many interviewees preferred their gig work over other forms of low-paid work (most commonly cleaning, hospitality, retail) because of abusive bosses, underpayment, and underemployment. In comparison, gig work is seen by these workers as providing a more appealing work environment.

While some rideshare drivers note they need to work long hours to earn the equivalent of a full-time wage, they also emphasise their enjoyment of their rideshare work. One food delivery worker summed it up:

"It is more flexible. You can do whatever you want. You are on the street talking to the people enjoying. You can do exercise as well on the bicycle. And, it is good money. "

Despite these workers' sense that there are opportunities in gig work - their experience was not overwhelmingly positive. There was a group of workers who felt marginalised, had few choices, and the gig work was a last resort.

These workers saw gig work as a stopgap measure while they looked for "real" jobs. In these cases they were doing it because it got them out of the house, to supplement their income or before starting their own business.

Social versus isolating

The workers in the study saw social interactions as part of their gig work as one of the more enjoyable aspects. What varied between rideshare and food delivery workers was how these interactions took place.

Food delivery drivers often end up crossing paths during their shifts and informally waiting together. As one worker summed up:

"You end up knowing most of the riders, because you see them pretty often. You kind of speak with each other, and there is a social club."

By contrast rideshare drivers noted that their work could be quite physically isolating. Some drivers engaged in online forums with other drivers but would never meet up with them. Despite limited social interaction with other drivers, rideshare drivers reported that this is where they derived most of their job satisfaction.

Freedom versus control

The drivers we interviewed expressed a sense of freedom and flexibility because they had "no boss, no set hours". However, the flip side of this was a sense of limited control over work. As one food delivery worker described:

"I currently fit my life around their workobviously I have to work around busy times - lunch and dinnertime."

Both delivery riders and rideshare drivers - found that only particular pockets of time across the day were profitable. This was usually lunch and dinner times, especially weekends for food delivery, and weekends and evenings for rideshare drivers. So while their options to sign on or off the app (the platform that employed them) were flexible, realistically their productive working hours were determined by patterns of consumer demand.

Both the rideshare and food delivery platforms also unilaterally changed the terms and conditions of engagement, which directly affected earning potential. Both groups of workers expressed particular concern about the periodic increases in the commission taken by the platform, reporting cuts to earnings of up to 15%. One driver lamented:

"The way they [the platform] manipulate people.is really saddening."

Ridesharing workers were also concerned about being financially over-committed due to the cost associated with purchasing and running a vehicle. This financial burden, coupled with continued changing rules of game, and the capacity for these platforms to arbitrarily "deactivate them" led to anxiety and frustration. One worker described this:

"It used to be good before they did all the price cuts and started treating their drivers like trash. We have had 30% cuts since I came on board whilst demand hasn't matched supply. I make around $10 an hour."

Best of a bad lot

Our emerging findings suggest gig workers often understand the trade-offs between the positive and negative features of their work but see this as a reality of their position within the labour market.

A number of our interviewees felt exploited and/or would prefer better paying "real jobs", validating the concern on regulation, pay and conditions in this industry. But, gig work allows these workers to meet their immediate needs and gives them a sense of being their own boss.

The gig workers enjoyed the high levels of autonomy in their work, and many of them saw their gigs as the best in a market characterised by low paid jobs.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
Image of fossilized dinosaur eggs found in India, currently displayed at Indroda Fossil Park, Gandhinagar, Gujarat INDIA. Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Huge pulses of volcanic activity are likely to have played a key role in triggering the end Triassic mass extinction, which set the scene for the rise and age of the dinosaurs, new Oxford University research has found.

The Triassic extinction took place approximately 200 million years ago, and was proceeded by the dinosaur era. One of the largest mass extinctions of animal life on record, the casualty list includes large crocodile-like reptiles and several marine invertebrates. The event also caused huge changes in land vegetation, and while it remains a mystery why the dinosaurs survived this event, they went on to fill the vacancies left by the now extinct wildlife species, alongside early mammals and amphibians. This mass extinction has long been linked to a large and abrupt release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, but the exact source of this emission has been unknown.

Following the discovery of volcanic rocks of the same age as the extinction, volcanic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions had previously been suggested as an important contributor to this extinction event. Previous studies have also shown that this volcanism might have occurred in pulses, but the global extent and potential impact of these volcanic episodes has remained unknown. These volcanic rocks covered a huge area, across four continents, representing the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP).

Researchers from the Oxford University Department of Earth Science worked in collaboration with the Universities of Exeter and Southampton to trace the global impact of major volcanic gas emissions and their link to the end of the Triassic period. The findings link volcanism to the previously observed repeated large emissions of carbon dioxide that had a profound impact on the global climate, causing the mass extinction at the end of the Triassic Period, as well as slowing the recovery of animal life afterwards.

By investigating the mercury content of sedimentary rocks deposited during the extinction, the study findings revealed clear links in the timing of CAMP volcanism and the end-Triassic extinction. Volcanoes give off mercury gas emissions, which spread globally through the atmosphere, before being deposited in sediments. Any sediments left during a large volcanic event would therefore be expected to have unusually high mercury content.

The team sourced six sediment deposits were sourced from the UK, Austria, Argentina, Greenland, Canada and Morocco, and their mercury levels analysed. Five of the six records showed a large increase in mercury content beginning at the end-Triassic extinction horizon, with other peaks observed between the extinction horizon and the Triassic-Jurassic boundary, which occurred approximately 200 thousand years later.

Elevated mercury emissions also coincided with previously established increases in atmospheric CO2 concentrations, indicating CO2 release from volcanic degassing.

Lawrence Percival, Lead author and Geochemistry Graduate student at Oxford University, said: "These results strongly support repeated episodes of volcanic activity at the end of the Triassic, with the onset of volcanism during the end-Triassic extinction.

"This research greatly strengthens the link between the Triassic mass extinction and volcanic emissions of CO2. This further evidence of episodic emissions of volcanic CO2 as the likely driver of the extinction enhances our understanding of this event, and potentially of other climate change episodes in Earth's history."

The full paper features in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Inventory needs to be managed and managed well, or you are going to get in recurring trouble, and lose your credibility and hard-earned conversions, whether 

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Cybersecurity Experts Suggest North Korea Carried out WannaCry

The cybersecurity arm of British intelligence services has reportedly suggested the global ransomware attack was launched from North Korea.

Just last month a nasty ransomware attack by the name of WannaCry locked down the data on computers in nearly every continent across the globe. Now, cybersecurity researchers are getting to the bottom of where the attack was launched from.

British security services believe the attack was launched from North Korea, sources familiar with the matter have said. The WannaCry ransomware outbreak  powered by a leaked NSA exploit  took down Windows computers around the world, infecting over 300,000 PCs and crippling systems across the Americas, Europe, Russia and China.

The UKs National Health Service was hit particularly badly by the attack, with hospitals and doctors surgeries knocked offline. Some services were not restored until days after the initial attack.

Now an investigation led by the National Cyber Security Centre has pointed to North Korean hacking operation, the Lazarus Group, as the source of the attack. While cybersecurity firms had previously suggested the WannaCry attack could have been mounted from North Korea, they could not confirm or deny the accusation at the time.

The role of the North Korean leadership in the WannaCry outbreak isn't known, but security services have suggested that those behind the attack may not have expected the ransomware to spread so quickly. Mistakes in the code point to the possibility that the authors didn't know what they were getting themselves in to.

The suggestion by British security services that WannaCry was launched by North Korea comes shortly after reports that US intelligence officials at the NSA have also linked the cyberattack to the country. The assessment was based on an analysis of tactics, techniques and targets, which has led to "moderate confidence" that North Korean intelligence was behind the attack.
A baby elephant was found dead on the side of a highway in Malaysia. (PHOTO: Facebook/Management & Ecology of Malaysian Elephants)

A baby elephant was killed by a car on a highway in Malaysia, said conservation group Management & Ecology of Malaysian Elephants (MEME) on Sunday (18 June).

According to a report by The Star, state officers found the dead two-year-old elephant in a pool of blood at around 7am last Friday (16 June).

In a Facebook post, MEME said, We are devastated to see a baby elephant killed by a car at Gerik-Jeli Highway. Drivers please slow down at roads with wildlife crossings.

Be mindful of our forest friends. Lets not cause them any more harm. They have already lost so much when we took their forest to build roads on.

Perak Department of Wildlife and National Parks director Loo Kean Seong said, While incidents like this do not happen often, we would like motorists to be extra careful when driving along this highway. We have already erected signboards to notify motorists that there would be elephant crossings along the stretch of the highway.

Motorists in Malaysia are advised to report any cases of endangered species being knocked down to the relevant authorities. This is so that we can at least investigate and bury the carcass instead of leaving it to rot at the roadside, Loo said.

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The Central African Republic's government on Monday signed an "immediate ceasefire" deal with rebel groups at a meeting in Rome aimed at ending violence in the strife-torn country. The accord, negotiated over five days, was hailed as a precious chance to stabilise one of the world's most volatile and poorest countries. Under it, armed groups will be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks and blockades, and their members will be brought into the country's armed forces. "We commit to the immediate implementation by political-military groups of a country-wide ceasefire, to be monitored by the international community, as a fundamental step on the way to definitive peace," the deal read. "The government undertakes to ensure military groups are represented at all levels" and are "recognised as part of the reconstruction efforts", it said. The accord was brokered by the Community of Sant'Egidio, a group rooted in the Catholic Church that promotes dialogue with other religions and non-believers. It has been an active mediator in many African conflicts. The rebel groups pledged to ensure "the free movement of people and goods by removing illegal barriers as an immediate consequence of the ceasefire". - State authority - The signatories also committed to "restoring the (authority of the) state across the national territory." One of the world's poorest nations, CAR has been struggling to recover from a civil war between Muslim and Christian militias that started in 2013 when President Francois Bozize was overthrown by a coalition of Muslim-majority rebel groups called the Seleka. They in turn were ousted by a military intervention led by former colonial ruler France. Those events sparked the bloodiest sectarian violence in the country's history as mainly Christian militias sought revenge. Christians, who account for about 80 percent of the population, organised vigilante units dubbed "anti-balaka", in reference to the machetes used by the rebels. The signatories of Monday's agreement included various factions of the Seleka as well as Christian and animist groups. Members of armed groups will be "integrated" into the country's armed forces, "in line with pre-established criteria" and after an "upgrade," according to the deal. Sant'Egidio's president Marco Impagliazzo described the accord as "an historic agreement, a deal full of hope". CAR's foreign minister, Charles Armel Doubane, echoed those remarks, speaking of a "day of hope" for the country. The UN's special representative on CAR, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga of Gabon, who is also head of the UN's stabilisation force there, attended the talks. Several heads of CAR political parties also took part. - Mounting concern - The agreement announced on Monday comes against a backdrop of mounting concern. Last month, the UN's humanitarian coordination agency OCHA reported on an "alarming" rise in violence, with "clashes (that) have taken an increasingly religious and ethnic connotation,." It said the number of internally displaced people is now over half a million for the first time since August 2014, while a further 400,000, out of a population of 4.5 million, had fled to neighbouring countries. The country's armed forces are estimated to number about 8,000, backed by 900 French troops and 10,000 troops and 2,000 civilians serving in a UN force called MINUSCA. They have stabilised the situation, but around half the country -- which covers almost 623,000 square kilometres (241,000 square miles), a little less than Afghanistan or Chile -- remains outside government control. "We must ensure that all the parties respect this agreement," MINUSCA spokesman Vladimir Monteiro told AFP Monday. "We will work with all the partners for the immediate cessation of hostilities so that the violence against the populations ceases," he added.
Presidential hopeful Mohd Salleh Marican (right) is aiming to improve his Malay conversational skills. Photo Safhras Khan/ Yahoo Singapore

Presidential hopeful and CEO of Second Chance Properties Mohd Salleh Marican said he is taking Malay lessons ahead of the upcoming presidential election after he was criticised for his poor grasp of the language during an interview.

In an exclusive interview with Yahoo Singapore, Salleh, 67, said the weekly lessons would enable him to converse in Malay fluently about his candidacy during media interviews and interactions with the electorate. Salleh was talking to Yahoo Singapore on Monday (19 June) at the house of his eldest daughter Nadia Marican in the eastern part of Singapore.

On 5 June 2017, Salleh struggled to answer in Malay during an interview with a group of reporters outside the Elections Department after he collected his presidential election forms. The incident prompted criticisms online about his inability to speak the language well given that the September presidential election is reserved for Malay candidates.

Instead of being affected by the criticisms, Salleh said he is taking firm steps to address the issue. The father of four added that while he is able to converse in everyday Malay currently, he wants to improve his conversational skills by taking lessons from a Malay newspaper and television media veteran.

You dont need to be good in Malay to carry out your duties as a president because the official language is English.

Now that this has happened, I have to do my best to improve my mastery of the language and I am taking it as a challenge. I am taking several Malay lessons a week and I am challenging myself that on Nomination Day, I will make an off the cuff public speech in the language, he added.

My life has changed

Salleh said he is staying totally focused on preparations for his presidential campaign and taking things in his stride.

I am a businessman, and I am used to taking up challenges. Moreover, as an entrepreneur, I am optimistic by nature, said Salleh.

In an earlier interview with this reporter, Salleh said that he aimed to convince the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) that he is adequately qualified for the job. Presidential candidates must obtain a certificate of eligibility from the PEC and confirmation from the Community Committee that they are members of the Malay community.

Story continues

The founder of Second Chance, which is also a popular clothing brand in the Malay community, acknowledged that he is now the subject of greater public attention.

My life has changed since I made the decision (to compete in the election). It changed in the sense that my mind cannot concentrate on other things.

When I go out, many people congratulate me and smile at me, he said.
Factcheck: Grenfell Tower fire and the Daily Mails green targets claim Posted on 19 June 2017 by Guest Author This is a re-post from Leo Hickman at Carbon Brief Three days after the devastating fire at Grenfell Tower in west London, much of the media coverage of the tragedy is now focusing on the possible causes. A wide range of possible contributory factors has been cited  lack of sprinklers, lack of adequate fire escapes, no central fire alarms, etc. But there has been much speculation that the cladding, added to the building during a recent refurbishment, could have helped the fire to spread rapidly up the exterior of the building. A number of newspapers have focused their investigations on possible cost-cutting during the renovation, as well as prior warnings by residents that safety standards were being ignored. For example, the Times today has a frontpage story highlighting that contractors could have acquired the fire-resistant version [of the cladding used] for less than 5,000 extra. The refurbishment of the building cost 8.6m. However, the Daily Mail is making its own claim. On its frontpage it says there are three lethal questions that need answering; the first of which is: Were green targets to blame for the fire tragedy? It adds that experts, which the paper doesnt name, are asking whether the cladding was installed simply to meet environmental targets. On page eight is a full-page commentary from Ross Clark, sitting under the headline question: So did an obsession with green targets lead to inferno? Clark, who has published various climate sceptic articles and written a book attacking regulations he believes to be strangling the UK, begins the article: Stringent government targets to slash greenhouse gas emissions were behind the decision to clad the Grenfell Tower, official documents show. The local council, Kensington and Chelsea, said the energy efficiency refurbishment of the tower last year was a key part of plans to cut carbon emissions. And the document outlining the rationale for overhauling the building, drawn up in 2012, said that improving the insulation levels of the walls, roof and windows is the top priority of this refurbishment. Kensington and Chelsea, in common with all local councils in the UK, has been under huge pressure to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide produced in the borough. Demands to cut CO2 emissions stems from the 2008 Climate Change Act. He adds: As well as cladding, the refurbishment included making windows double glazed and installing new energy efficient boilers and heat exchanger units in flats. Plans to refurbish the tower were drawn up years before  again with a central aim of cutting greenhouse gas emissions. In 2012 the document explaining the reasons for refurbishing Grenfell Tower, produced by Max Fordham, said: Improving the insulation levels of the walls, roof and windows is the top priority of this refurbishment. Primary reason The 2012 planning documents cited by the Daily Mail  and studied by Carbon Brief  show that its reporting of their content to be highly selective and misleading. The newspapers implication is that cutting carbon emissions to help meet the Climate Change Act was a key reason and top priority when the council was considering the refurbishment. However, while they do mention reducing carbon emissions as one of the benefits, the planning documents themselves are quite clear what the primary reason was for the buildings overhaul. In the introduction to the planning statement  the central overview document of the councils 2012 application submitted by the Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation  it states the context: The need for the regeneration of Grenfell Tower has based upon an assessment of the wider Lancaster West Estate which identified the Tower as the top priority for investment on the Estate. The Tower requires improved thermal efficiency and sound insulation, new heating system, new windows and general improvements to the building and its setting. It is not until page six of the 17-page document when climate change and energy is first mentioned when listing eight key themes that summarise key national, metropolitan and local planning policy. It is only on page 10 when it then gives more information about Climate change and energy. It says the role that planning can play in achieving more sustainable development is at the heart of the NPPF [National Planning Policy Framework], adding that the London Plan (the Mayor of Londons strategic planning guidance) sets out overall targets for CO2 emissions and how the planning system can promote their achievement. Even though climate change  both in terms of adaptation and mitigation  is now included in most planning guidance, it is not the key driver, as implied by the Daily Mail. Included within the many documents that made up the 2012 planning application for the Grenfell Tower improvements is the Sustainability & Energy Statement. It clearly states at the start that the primary reason given for the refurbishment was to address complaints by residents that the tower, built in the early 1970s, was overheating in the summer and leaking heat in the winter. This would impact the mostly low-income residents both in terms of their personal comfort and health, but also the cost of their energy bills. It says, in full: The poor insulation levels and air tightness of both the walls and the windows at Grenfell Tower result in excessive heat loss during the winter months. Addressing this issue is the primary driver behind the refurbishment. Due to valid safely concerns the windows at Grenfell Towers are restricted to open no more than 100 mm. This restriction causes chronic overheating in the summer months. It is essential that the renovation works do not make the overheating problems any worse and where possible we will strive to reduce overheating in line with current guidelines. The heating system exacerbates the overheating problem due to its high uncontrolled heat losses throughout the year (including summer) and is also reaching the end of its design life. The client wishes to update the heating system at this point. Updating the heating system allows the disruptive works to piggy back on the recladding works. The London Plan July 2011 aims to conserve energy. A defined energy hierarchy should be followed. This hierarchy is as follows: 1) Be lean: use less energy, in particular by adopting sustainable design and construction measures 2) Be clean: supply energy efficiently 3) Be green: use renewable energy This approach has been adopted to illustrate the environmental benefits achieved through the refurbishment of the tower. Retrofitting As the document stresses in the opening sentence, the refurbishment sought to address the current energy and environmental comfort problems of the residents. Within that context, it then shows how the chosen solutions sit within the London Plans aim to bring existing housing stock up to the Mayors standards on sustainable design and construction. The Daily Mail article by Ross Clark also says: Stressing how important it was to make old buildings greener, a mayors report in 2013 states an energy efficiency retrofit is essential to meeting the mayors targets. Carbon Brief has examined the cited document and it does not contain the term greener, as quoted by the Mail. The document is titled, Using local powers to maximise energy efficiency retrofit. It was published by the then Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, in July 2013. This is the full sentence that the Mail excerpt above partially quotes: Given that around 80 per cent of Londons buildings will still be standing in 2050, energy efficiency retrofit is essential to meeting the Mayors targets. Regarding targets, the mayors report says: Wide-scale energy efficiency retrofit is therefore crucial to meeting both the Governments target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent on 1990 levels by 2020 as well as the Mayor of Londons target to reduce Londons carbon emissions by 60 per cent on 1990 levels by 2025. However, it is worth noting that the reports foreword also highlights the wider benefits of energy retrofits, which reached well beyond the Mails claim that the green targets were key reason behind cladding being installed: The opportunity for energy retrofitting in Londons housing is immense: more than one in five of the UKs solid walled homes are in the capital, as well as 14 per cent of Englands fuel poor homes. And the benefits of attracting funding for retrofit are even greater: reducing our demand for energy resources and helping Londons most vulnerable households out of fuel poverty Retrofit also offers wider benefits to the day-to-day lives of Londoners. Making homes cheaper to keep warm reduces fuel poverty and its health impacts. Insulating homes brings them to a higher standard and can overcome chronic issues of poor ventilation and damp. Energy efficiency projects can regenerate entire communities, drive up housing values and engage residents in wider issues of sustainability. Retrofitting also provides an opportunity for pioneering local authorities to get an edge in the growing energy efficiency market and generate local jobs. The Daily Mail, which has long pursued an anti-climate agenda in its comment pages, also tries to reinforce Clarks article further with an editorial on page 16. It says: The more we learn of this tragedy, the more it appears that the blame lies not with money but staggering incompetence and misguided climate change targetsWas it, as official documents suggest, an attempt to slash greenhouse gas emissions? Conclusion So, to conclude, green targets are far from being the key driving force behind refurbishing public housing stock. Reducing fuel poverty as well as improving the personal comfort and health of residents are also key motivations, as the planning documents cited above clearly state. Theresa May, the prime minister, yesterday ordered a full public inquiry into the causes of the disaster. There have also been calls for an interim report to be published this summer. It will likely take months before all the contributory causes are identified and assessed in full. 1 0 Printable Version | Link to this page
Weatherford International plc, an oilfield service company, provides equipment and services for the drilling, evaluation, completion, production, and intervention of oil and natural gas wells worldwide. The company operates in two segments, Western Hemisphere and Eastern Hemisphere. It offers artificial lift systems, including reciprocating rod, progressing cavity pumping, gas, hydraulic, plunger, and hybrid lift systems, as well as related automation and control systems; pressure pumping and reservoir stimulation services, such as acidizing, fracturing and fluid systems, cementing, and coiled-tubing intervention; and drill stem test tools, and surface well testing and multiphase flow measurement services. The company also provides safety, downhole reservoir monitoring, flow control, and multistage fracturing systems, as well as sand-control technologies, and production and isolation packers; liner hangers to suspend a casing string in high-temperature and high-pressure wells; cementing products, including plugs, float and stage equipment, and torque-and-drag reduction technology for zonal isolation; and pre-job planning and installation services. In addition, it offers directional drilling services, and logging and measurement services while drilling; services related to rotary-steerable systems, high-temperature and high-pressure sensors, drilling reamers, and circulation subs; managed pressure drilling, conventional mud-logging, drilling instrumentation, gas analysis, wellsite consultancy, and open hole and cased-hole logging services; reservoir solutions and software products; and intervention and remediation services. Further, the company provides equipment and drilling tools; tubular handling, management, and connection services; equipment rental services; and onshore contract drilling and related services through a fleet of land drilling and workover rigs. Weatherford International plc was incorporated in 1972 and is headquartered in Baar, Switzerland.
Anixter International Inc., through its subsidiary, Anixter Inc., distributes enterprise cabling and security solutions, electrical and electronic wire and cable solutions, and utility power solutions worldwide. The company operates through Network & Security Solutions (NSS), Electrical & Electronic Solutions (EES), and Utility Power Solutions (UPS) segments. The NSS segment offers copper and fiber optic cable and connectivity, access control, video surveillance, intrusion and fire/life safety, cabinet, power, cable management, wireless, professional audio/video, voice and networking switches, and other ancillary products for the technology, finance, transportation, education, government, healthcare, and retail industries, as well as telecommunications service providers. The EES Solutions segment provides electrical and electronic wires and cables, shipboard cables, support and supply products, low-voltage and instrumentation cables, industrial communication and control products, security cables, connectors, industrial Ethernet switches, and voice and data cables to the commercial and industrial, and original equipment manufacturer markets. The UPS segment supplies electrical transmission and distribution products, power plant maintenance, repair and operations supplies, and smart-grid products, as well as arranges materials management and procurement outsourcing for the power generation and transmission, and electricity distribution industries. The company serves contractors, installers, system integrators, value-added resellers, architects, engineers, and wholesale distributors in various industries, including manufacturing, resource extraction, telecommunications, Internet service providers, finance, education, healthcare, retail, transportation, utilities, and defense, as well as government customers. The company was formerly known as Itel Corporation. Anixter International Inc. was founded in 1957 and is headquartered in Glenview, Illinois.
Baxter International Inc., through its subsidiaries, develops and provides a portfolio of healthcare products worldwide. The company offers peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, and additional dialysis therapies and services; intravenous therapies, infusion pumps, administration sets, and drug reconstitution devices; remixed and oncology drug platforms, inhaled anesthesia and critical care products and pharmacy compounding services; parenteral nutrition therapies and related products; biological products and medical devices used in surgical procedures for hemostasis, tissue sealing and adhesion prevention; and continuous renal replacement therapies and other organ support therapies focused in the intensive care unit. It also provides connected care solutions, including devices, software, communications, and integration technologies; integrated patient monitoring and diagnostic technologies to help diagnose, treat, and manage a various illness and diseases, including respiratory therapy, cardiology, vision screening, and physical assessment; surgical video technologies, tables, lights, pendants, precision positioning devices and other accessories. In addition, the company offers contracted services to various pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies. Its products are used in hospitals, kidney dialysis centers, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, doctors' offices, and patients at home under physician supervision. The company sells its products through direct sales force, as well as through independent distributors, drug wholesalers, and specialty pharmacy or other alternate site providers in approximately 100 countries. It has an agreement with Celerity Pharmaceutical, LLC to develop acute care generic injectable premix and oncolytic molecules. Baxter International Inc. was incorporated in 1931 and is headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois.
Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides telecommunication services in Taiwan and internationally. It operates through Domestic Fixed Communications Business, Mobile Communications Business, Internet Business, International Fixed Communications Business, and Others segments. The company offers local and domestic long-distance telephone, broadband access, and related services; information and communication technology and VAS services; and interconnection with its fixed-line network to other mobile and fixed-line operators. It also provides mobile; HiNet Internet, data communication, and cloud; Internet data center; and international long-distance telephone and data services. In addition, the company distributes and sells mobile handsets, data cards, electronic materials, and computing and business machinery equipment and software; designs, develops, manufactures, sells, and services semiconductor testing components, printed circuit boards, and electronic components and finished products, and automatic license plate recognition software and hardware products. Further, it offers real estate development and property management; system, network, and communications integration; intelligent buildings and energy network; digital information supply and advertisement; property and liability insurance agency; family education; computing equipment installation; management consultancy; data processing; telecommunication engineering; Internet identify; and information and communication solution services. Additionally, the company provides software design services, and Internet contents production and play services; motion picture production and distribution; and energy saving solutions and international circuits, and services for electronic parts and machinery processed products. The company was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Taipei City, Taiwan.
Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc., through its subsidiaries, designs, engineers, manufactures, sells, and services a line of lift trucks, attachments, and aftermarket parts worldwide. It manufactures components, such as frames, masts, and transmissions; and assembles lift trucks. The company markets its products primarily under the Hyster and Yale brand names to independent Hyster and Yale retail dealerships. It also sells aftermarket parts under the Hyster and Yale, as well as UNISOURCE and PREMIER brands to Hyster and Yale dealers for the service of competitor lift trucks. In addition, the company produces and distributes attachments, forks, and lift tables under the Bolzoni, Auramo, and Meyer brand names; and designs and produces products in the port equipment and rough terrain forklift markets. Further, it designs, manufactures, and sells hydrogen fuel-cell stacks and engines. The company serves light and heavy manufacturers, trucking and automotive companies, rental companies, building materials and paper suppliers, lumber, metal products, warehouses, retailers, food distributors, container handling companies, and U.S. and non-U.S. governmental agencies. Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. was incorporated in 1991 and is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio.
President Donald Trump visited Miami Friday, where he announced a tightening of the rules on trade and travel enacted under former President Barack Obama.

Potential Business Impact of the Cuba Policies Rollback

Leading up to the announcement, there are at least five key factors the Trump administration should consider before deciding to roll back current U.S. regulations on the island nation.

Reversing Course With Cuba Could Cost The U.S. Jobs And Revenue

Rolling back regulations with Cuba could cost the U.S. 12,295 jobs and businesses and taxpayers over $6 billion over Trumps first term in office, a June 1 report from Engage Cuba finds. The group did not include U.S. agricultural exports to Cuba in its estimates. Including agricultural exports, the U.S. stands to lose 14,500 jobs and $8.1 billion in revenue.

Even the low end of 12,000 jobs still accounts for more jobs than the president saved with his much lauded victory over Carrier, which is speculated to have saved the U.S. economy between 800 and 1,100 American jobs. The company still plans to ship around 300 positions to Mexico before Christmas.

U.S. Has A Positive Trade Relationship With Cuba

The U.S. has a positive trade relationship with the island nation, meaning that America exports more than it imports from Cuba. In 2016, the U.S. exported over $245 million dollars  measured on a nominal basis  worth of goods and services to Cuba and imported nothing, according to the U.S. Census Bureau on Foreign Trade. In the first four months of 2017, the U.S. has exported over $83 million worth of goods and services to the island.

The President is vitriolic about the U.S. engaging in trade relationships that are not a net-benefit to American businesses and consumers. It appears from the numbers that Cuba presents a positive trade relationship for the U.S. dating back to 1992, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Potential National Security Threats To Reversing Course With Cuba

If President Donald Trump chooses to reverse course with Cuba and move back to the isolationist policies imposed on the island nation under former President Dwight Eisenhower, he could effectively be giving a gift to both Russia and China.

Russia and China are already working to improve their political and economic ties to the island some 90 miles off the coast of the U.S. The top export destination for Cuban products is China, which the Massachusetts Institute of Technology estimates at around $308 million a year.

Russia announced in June its plans to invest $2 billion in Cuba to repair its rapidly deteriorating railway system. Russias state-owned oil company, Rosneft, announced in early-May its deal with the Cuban government to supply 250,000 tonnes of oil and diesel fuel to the nation, Reuters reports.

Majority Of Republicans Support Obamas Cuba Policy

The majority of Republican voters approve of former President Barack Obamas open policy toward Cuba, according to a poll (PDF) released Monday [June 12.]

Sixty-four percent of Republicans and 65 percent of registered voters overall support an open trade policy with the Cuban government. Also, the majority of Cuban Americans living in Miami  the largest hub of Cuban Americans living in the U.S.  support the Obama-era Cuba policies, the Miami Herald reports. Some 54 percent of Cuban Americans in Miami want to end the Cuban embargo.

Trump Could Face Some Heat From Cuba Policy Hawks If He Does Not Reverse Course

If Trump decides to keep up the Obama-era policies towards Cuba, he could face some significant backlash from Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida.

Diaz-Balart, as The Daily Caller originally reported in May, traded his vote on the American Health Care Act to gain concessions from Trump on his Cuba policy. The representative denies those claims, but remains opposed to loosening trade and travel restrictions on Cuba.

Rubio and other critics of Obama argue that, in lifting the embargo, we have given too much to Cuban President Raul Castro and are receiving far less in return.

I am confident that President Trump will treat Cuba like the dictatorship it is and that our policy going forward will reflect the fact that it is not in the national interest of the United States for us to be doing business with the Cuban military, Rubio told el Nuevo Herald.

Former commerce secretary under former President George W. Bush, Carlos Gutierrez, says that Cubans in Cuba will be terribly disheartened if Trump decides to reverse course. This decision will not play well anywhere, except for in those very cloistered spots in South Florida where Sen. Rubio and Mario Diaz-Balart have constituents.

Updated from Original Article

Republished by permission. Original here.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), ranking member on the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, recently issued a statement calling for removing the burdens the U.S. tax code imposes on small businesses.

The statement by Sen. Shaheen was made June 14 at a Senate hearing examining the impact of the current tax structure on American small businesses. It was made as part of Shaheens opening statement in favor of proposed tax code reforms and the removal of barriers to small business growth.

This statement, coming from a senior Democrat, hints at the potential for bi-partisan support for tax reform proposed by the Trump Administration as a way to stimulate business growth.

Democrats Call for Small Business Tax Relief

Our tax code is in desperate need of reform. Its too long, too complex, and it creates a burden on middle class families and small businesses across America, Sen. Shaheen said in the statement. Todays hearing is an opportunity to discuss relieving some of these tax burdens on small businesses so they can focus on what they do best: creating jobs and growing our economy.

Shaheen cited the National Taxpayer Advocate Service finding indicating small businesses spend 2.5 billion hours complying with IRS rules each year. For entrepreneurs, time is one of their most valuable resources, she stressed. Every hour spent filling out forms or navigating confusing tax rules is an hour they dont spend marketing their products or thinking about how to grow their business.

Republicans have made tax reform a major policy priority since taking control of the government. And small businesses will welcome the move by a ranking democrat in the committee joining in the call for small business tax relief. Its important discussion on this issue does not spiral into bipartisan squabbling and stays focused on how to make things a bit easier for U.S. small business owners.
The sense of crisis is felt in established democracies, developing democracies and even authoritarian regimes feel like like they are becoming more authoritarian.

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Whether it be the early decisions by US President Donald Trump, the centralization of power in Turkey under Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the recent crackdown on  mostly young  protesters in Russia, or the arrival of Marian Kotleba in the Slovak parliament, there are plenty of signs that liberal democratic norms are under pressure.

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The sense of crisis is felt in established democracies, developing democracies and even authoritarian regimes feel like like they are becoming more authoritarian. The alarm is such that there is a renewed desire to clearly articulate just what democracy means in the 21st century, an exercise that might have felt unnecessary just a few years ago. Two recent, interesting such efforts have roots in this region.

One such effort, June 1s Declaration of Commitment to Liberty and Prosperity in Central and Eastern Europe, was organized by the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) a think tank funded by the US government with the text coming from leaders of NGOs and think tanks throughout the CEE region  including Slovakias INEKO and the Pontis Foundation (Full disclosure: I also helped writing some of the language). Meanwhile in Prague, the Forum 2000 Foundation drew on a wide array of global thinkers to create May 26s Prague Appeal for Democratic renewal.

As the Forum 2000 document notes, the latest edition of the Freedom in the World report produced by the American NGO Freedom House saw established democracies dominate the list of countries suffering setbacks in freedom. In other words, democracy is threatened by complacency, even in places where democracy was once thought the healthiest. In much of the West, there is no memory of a time where things were not democratic. That is not the case in Slovakia, but even still those memories are growing hazy, with younger generations only knowing life during democratic times and some (not all) of those who lived under communism preferring nostalgia to empiricism.

This means that today democratic ideals  freedom of expression, political pluralism, fair elections and checks on government power, among others  are often most strongly supported in places where they are weakest in practice. Although democracy is often considered a Western idea, its most fervent defenders today are people in non-Western societies who continue to fight for democratic freedoms against daunting odds, Forum 2000 notes.

It is hard to disagree with the observations in either document, and while their very existence shows specialists, experts and professional thinkers are paying close attention to the health of democracy the question remains  and it is the crucial one in a system where elections dictate the political course  whether the wider public might do the same. The drafters of the CIPE document assert to to encourage more inclusive engagement in public affairs, work to mobilize resources from the business community and boost the number of citizens who consider themselves democratic stakeholders.

Let us hope there is a willing and receptive audience. As the people behind both recent declarations know, statements of principle are simple compared to what comes next.
What motivates millennials and what are their strengths and weaknesses?

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Millennials have been a much discussed topic in recent years. We wanted to know what motivates them. What are their strengths and weaknesses? Since this generation is now taking up leading businesses positions, we decided to speak to them and share their opinions with you.

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First of all, lets define this generation

Millennials (also known as Generation Y, Net-Gen or iGeneration) is usually defined as the generation of people born during the 80s and early 90s, but according to some demographers, this range can be extended to 1980  2000. Their most frequent cited characteristics are that they are lazy, with an inflated sense of entitlement, tech-savvy and looking for work/life balance. Lets have a closer look.

Generation Y are confident and ambitious. They believe they can achieve anything and there are no limits to stop them. They are not afraid to look for a new job as long as their expectations are met, so compared to previous generations, they are likely to change job positions more often.

Millennials like to work in a team  regular team meetings and cooperation is very important for them. They prefer flexible working hours so they can find work/life balance and spend time with their families, rather than working all night long. They tend to build personal relationships and friendships in the workplace.

Generation Y grew up with digital technologies and if you want to communicate with them, use email, chat, social media or text messages, rather than the phone.

To understand this generation better, we asked millennials in leading positions several questions.

What are your company values?

Our first and foremost concept at eyerim is the entrepreneurial mind-set which we promote. Everyone is expected to analyze, decide and solve problems. Additionally, being a team player is an important skill in our company. Since everyone is in direct or close collaboration with every department, the ability to adapt to the team culture and have strong communication skills is critical. In short, in addition to each members role or task, everyone is expected to contribute to company growth and develop ideas which lead to this goal.

Yassaman Omidbakhsh, eyerim founder (e-shop)

To not follow rules, but rather use your judgment to make the right decision for the customer and the company. Always challenge the status quo.

Martin Zahuranec, eyerim founder (e-shop)

We go the extra mile, we are proactive and we are still growing.

Eva Zekucia, Chefgroup Manager (Chefparade, Thali, Chefstreet, Chefcatering)

What motivates your employees  millennials  the most?

The motivation factor is different for every individual, but I believe for most of them it is the pace and challenge of a start-up that keeps them motivated. Undertaking different tasks instead of sticking to a routine is exhilarating. Many also appreciate the level of responsibility and importance each individual has in the team. This kind of power enables them to see the results of their actions almost immediately. For those who are open to challenges, this is a highly motivational factor which is more effective than traditional corporate incentives.

Yassaman Omidbakhsh

I believe millennials are motivated not only financially, but also need to be challenged and given a vision of how to grow. Giving them ever more responsibilities and tougher tasks is the way to keep them motivated.

Erik Schwarcz, Attorney, GHS Legal

Millennials are motivated by a perfect working environment (for Honeywell  perfectly equipped laboratories), work on prestigious projects (we are one of the biggest development centers in the Czech Republic) and a very friendly working atmosphere.

Branislav Cibik, University coordinator, Honeywell

What benefits keep your employees (millennials) satisfied?

Money talks, yet I see millennials are willing to sacrifice this in favor of adventure, and a professionally and intellectually faster-paced environment and a better culture.

Martin Zahuranec

The biggest benefit is the possibility for self-realization.

Eva Zekucia

The benefits at SMEs are a less materialistic culture and a greater opportunity for self-growth. The experience and steep learning curve we offer is usually far more attractive than bigger companies can offer. Many of our employees get hands-on experience in building and maintaining a company. I wouldnt be surprised if many of them head off to build their own businesses, which was something that I did. Other benefits are the flexibility and friendly atmosphere we offer. There are no strict rules and everyone here has responsibility and a sense of the value they bring.

Yassaman Omidbakhsh

What makes millennials special, what is their biggest asset as employees, and what do they lack?

Millennials are more self-confident, braver and they can put their heart into work, if they love it. They often lack humility, patience and discipline.

Eva Zekucia

They tend to be more passive. I believe more initiative and independence would be a major step forward for them.

Erik Schwarcz

Their greatest asset is their knowledge of languages; they work faster, prefer their personal life over a career and can adapt quickly. And what do they lack? I think perhaps they are sometimes spoilt and lazy, they dont have an overview of the labor market and are a bit irresponsible.

Branislav Cibik

You may or may not agree with our respondents and their generalized picture of millennials, but you always have a chance to test them at your workplace as employees, colleagues or young leaders.

Lenka Babelova is Branch Manager at CPL Jobs

Originally published in Connection, the magazine published by AmCham Slovakia
A June 18 bomb threat led to security checks in all Bratislava stations, while the main railway station was evacuated.

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An anonymous bomb threat was called in for train stations in Bratislava, without any specifications for which station would be targeted, the police wrote on their Facebook site. The police searched all stations in the Slovak capital.

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Shortly after the bomb was announced, we managed to detain a suspect, the police said, as quoted by the TASR newswire.

Trains were delayed beginning at 21:15. The railway department wrote on their Twitter account that trains began running again at 22:50.

The suspect, a 28-year-old from Bratislava, remains in pre-trial custody, the SITA newswire wrote on June 19.

Police are investigating the case, Bratislava police spokesperson Lucia Mihalikova told SITA. She said that a criminal prosecution for spreading scaremongering news may lead to a jail sentence of one to five years.
The tax and levies burden is highest in Slovakia among the V4 countries, and higher taxes proposed by President Andrej Kiska would only widen this gap.

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Slovakia lags in the quality of its business environment and economic competitiveness among the Visegrad Group, the Slovak Trade and Industry Chamber (SOPK) claimed, as quoted by the Hospodarske noviny daily. The Visegrad Group (V4) consists of Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia. SOPK said that the country is worse-off than the other countries that entered the European Union with Slovakia.

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We have to mainly consider the area which represents our competitors  and whether you look at V4 or the Baltics, we are worse off, SOPK chairman Peter Mihok said.

The chamber has criticised the huge tax and levies burden for countrys firms in the past, claiming that it is the highest in the EU.

The Finance Ministry, however, said that the SOPKs assertions are misleading.

Within the EU, the share of taxes and levies collected on the performance of the Slovak economy is considerably below the EU average, Finance Minister Peter Kazimir said, as cited by the daily.

Differences in methodology

The ministry uses a macroeconomic index that is not used by business people, Mihok said. He points to latest data from the World Bank, according to which a model company in Slovakia pays 51.6 percent of its profit for all taxes, levies and fees. This is much more than the EU average of 42.9 percent. Only four European countries have a higher tax burden, according to the World Bank.

Tomas Meravy, an analyst with the MESA 10 think, disapproves of the World Bank methodology and says that the comparison also calculates the amount of levies which are normally considered a burden of the employee. When only direct income taxes paid by companies are compared, Slovakia fares better.

Salaries are one of the crucial business indices, and President Andrej Kiska remarked on this in his address on the state of the republic. He said that salaries should be higher, even by as much as in ten percent.

The growth in salaries must correspond with the growth in labour productivity and the economic situation, according to Mihok, who points out that foreign investors come to Slovakia because of the countrys low expenses. He said that if salaries and prices rise too much, Slovakias attractiveness may decline.

Industry leaders may disagree

The idea of salaries in an engineering industry rising by 10 percent is unrealistic, CEO of Martimex engineering company, Julius Kostolny, told HN. However, Slovakias share of salaries as a percentage of GDP is lower than that of most EU member states.

Tomas Meravy also pointed out that in western Europe, salary expenses constitute around 70 percent of the total revenues of firms after the deduction of purchases. In Slovakia, this is only 56 percent.

Total tax-levy burden of companies, World Bank data (percent of profit)

Luxembourg 20.8

EU average 42.9

V4 average 47.1

Slovakia 51.6

Austria 51.6

Belgium 58.7

Italy 62.0

France 62.8
The Slovak Spectator brings you a selection of hoaxes from the past week.

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New toll that would increase fees for highways ten-fold is a hoax

When the European Commission introduces the highway toll for passenger cars, drivers in Slovakia will pay ten times more for travelling on highways, the napalete.sk website claims. The text alludes to some countries who have updated their highway stickers to electronic tolls - but fails to specify which countries they are.

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The EC does propose that electronic tolls be introduced for passenger cars under 3.5 tonnes by 2027 at the latest. But that deadline could still change, as member states have not given it their final approval.

There has been no talks about the price of the fees for highways. For now it is not clear if the toll rates will be defined on the European level or if they will remain under the jurisdictions of national entities. It is still an early draft that needs to be discussed by MEPs and the member states. It is likely that if the decision about the rates was left to the member states, Slovakia would push for lower rates, as Austria and Germany have done.

The napalete.sk website also claims that this step will burden the non-charged roads in and around towns and villages. But Slovakia will also have the possibility to impose tolls on roads of lower categories, which is already the case for freight trucks.

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Fake frontpage of National Geographic promotes fear

Does anyone really consider this evolution? The Facebook site ANTISlnieckar condemns the alleged frontpage of the National Geographic magazine, which shows a naked couple made up of a black man and a white woman. The caption suggests that the magazine is writing about a new evolution of humans in Europe, brought by immigrants to the continent.

The fake cover has been spread on websites and on Twitter, where it was mostly shared on racist-leaning accounts. The cover is marked May 2017, and a glance at the official website of National Geographic quickly reveals that the frontpage is fake.

But this can also be seen from some details of the picture. The fabricated frontpage has the date printed at the top of the page, together with the word Pr0ncave, which is an account on the blogging service tumblr.

The actual cover of National Geographic has the date printed at the bottom of the page.

Facebook users on the ANTISlnieckar page also noted that the frontpage is fake, but it still had 12 comments, 29 likes, and 14 shares. Every share means tens, possibly hundreds of views.

The administrators of the account said that what matters more than the name of the magazine is the question of whether Europe really awaits the evolution as depicted. This is a reaction quite typical for alternative news websites that contribute to anti-immigrant sentiments.

Read also:

Read also: The Sme daily starts a hunt for hoaxes Read more

250-million-year-old microchip from Russia is a hoax

The Czech-language fake news server World Around Us (Svet kolem nas) published an article about a revelation that will rewrite history.

The site, which often publishes stories about foreign policy and refugees, writes that Russian fisherman Viktor Morozov found an artefact that he donated to scientists. The site writes that the scientists tested it and found it to be some sort of microchip, about 225 to 250 million years old, that could be a technological remains of a civilisation that inhabited the Earth millions years ago. They also say that it might indicate the presence of aliens.

The Sme daily asked Matus Hyzny from the Department of Geology and Paleontology of the Faculty of Natural Sciences of the Comenius University in Bratislava. He identified it as the lengthwise cut of a crinoid, an organism similar to sea urchins and starfish.

Crinoids have a rich fossil record, and the finding in question shows typical preservation of these organisms, he told the daily.

In 2014, researchers from the Institute for Nanotechnologies and New Materials at the South Russian State Technical University issued a statement with a similar conclusion. They estimated the age of the crinoid at some 410-450 million years.

Even though the text refers to research findings, it does not include references to any studies that would prove their claim.

Still, the hoax, based solely on the visual resemblance of the found artefact to a microchip, garnered the attention of thousands of people on social networks.
The bishop of Reykjavik who is also the top representative of the Catholic Church in Iceland, comes from Slovakia

The church from Slovakia in the Icelandic town of Reydarfjordur. (Source: TASR)

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A Catholic bishop of Slovak origin, Capuchin David Bartimej Tencer, consecrated a unique wooden church in the Icelandic town of Reydarfjordur on June 17.

Because wood is scarce on the rocky, volcanic island, the church was made in the Slovak town of Hrinova (Banska Bystrica Region) using wood from the Podpolanie region.

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After its construction in Slovakia, the church was dismantled and transported to Iceland, where it could be easily reassembled.

You will not find a single house or church of this type in Iceland Tencer said. The 12-metre tall wooden church is in the shape of the St Damian Crucifix.

video //www.youtube.com/embed/Li6Ze_AiYUQ

Tencer, despite his nationality, is the bishop of Reykjavik and the top representative of the Catholic Church in Iceland. The local parish in Reydarfjordur is administered by a community of three Capuchin brothers from Slovakia led by Peter Kovacik.

Iceland is mostly an Evangelical country; out of about 350,000 Icelanders, Catholics make up about 13,500.

The Catholic community is not very big and in this rests its charm, said Tencer. I know many of its members in person.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Foreign and Affairs Minister Miroslav Lajcak and Finance Minister Peter Kazimir also attended the ceremony.

We had a very strong reason to stay here an extra day after Fridays (June 16) working meeting with Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson, said Fico following the consecration ceremony as cited by the TASR newswire. This reason is a Slovak bishop who has been working in Iceland, ministering to local Catholics.

In Ficos words, he has made enormous efforts to build a wooden church for a small Catholic community that represents around 3.5-4 percent of the Icelandic population.

Following communications with the bishop, weve managed to help somewhat via the Slovak Catholic Church, said Fico. So, Im happy that a piece of Slovakia from Hrinova, and the bishop, who is also from Slovakia, are representing our country in Iceland.
The strike due to start on June 20 will be the first of its kind in the history of Volkswagen in Slovakia.

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Talks between the Volkswagen Slovakia (VW SK) management and the Modern Trade Union Volkswagen on Monday afternoon, aimed at averting a full-fledged strike planned to start on Tuesday morning, June 20, have failed.

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The final offer presented by the VW SK management this afternoon was unacceptable, said trade union chief Zoroslav Smolinsky as cited by the TASR newswire.

VW SK managing board chairman Ralf Sacht, informed that the trade union has rejected an offer to increase salaries by 4.5 percent this year and by another 4.2 percent next year. The management improved its original offer by 0.2 percentage points.

I believe that we presented a good offer, said Sacht. We made a forward-looking step, but without any success.

The trade union wants to see a salary hike reaching as high as 16 percent within two years.

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Read also: Volkswagen staff to launch strike as of June 20 Read more

WV SK sees the 16-percent hike required by the trade union as inappropriate as it would endanger their competitiveness and the future of the company as well as the stability of the work place.

Smolinsky has declared that they are ready for the strike to last more than one or two days, adding that employees at VW SK are demanding better financial and working conditions against the background of a situation that has seen failing social dialogue and personnel policy at the plant.

Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer) views the demands made by the plants employees as justified.

You can look at it from two perspectives. Said Fico as cited by TASR. "The company salaries are rather high in comparison to the average Slovak level ... But given that this company is among the best in terms of quality, producing luxury cars and with high labour productivity, why should a worker in Bratislava receive half or one third of the pay of a worker in Germany or any other western European country who may have lower labour productivity and who produces non-luxury cars?

That said, Fico regards the talks on salaries at Volkswagen as an internal issue between the plant and the trade union.

I wont interfere in the inner workings of the trade union and the factory because this is an internal matter, said Fico. I respect the right to hold a strike.

Smolinsky estimated that about 2,000-2,500 employees will join the strike on Tuesday.

VW SK employs about 12,300 people. The average gross monthly wage, including bonuses and benefits and excluding managerial salaries, is 1,800.

First strike at Volkswagen in Slovakia

The strike, due to start on June 20, will be the first ever of its kind in the history of Volkswagen in Bratislava.

The situation is causing growing concern for former Volkswagen Slovakia board of directors chair and incumbent Automotive Industry Association honorary president Jozef Uhrik. He served as part of the companys management as of 1991 and chaired the board of directors in 2002-2005.

Im watching the situation at Volkswagen Slovakia with great concern, said Uhrik as cited by TASR. A potential strike might not only profoundly damage the interests of employees per se, but even the national economy as a whole.

He recalled that during his tenure at Volkswagen Slovakia, two such cases emerged in which unionists raised outsized demands and, based on the decision of the corporations management, production was shifted to a different country.

The first such case occurred in Pamplona in Spain. Because of a strike there, production of the Volkswagen Polo was transferred to Slovakia. The whole transfer was carried out rather swiftly, according to Uhrik.

The second extremely similar case happened in Barcelona.

It was then that some of the production of the SEAT Ibiza was shifted to us in Slovakia for two years (2003-05), said Uhrik, adding that many employees in Spain lost their jobs, and the transfer had an adverse effect on economic results. Therefore, Id like to appeal to both parties, particularly the unionists: sit at the negotiating table and find a compromise.

In his opinion a full strike will benefit no one and will resolve nothing.

Our economy is buttressed by the automobile industry, said Uhrik. We cant afford to gamble with such a position, particularly when Volkswagen Slovakia currently employs 12,300 people, while another 50,000 work for sub-suppliers. A strike might cause a loss of trust on the part of the firms management, which was quite hard to win over, and now we might lose it easily.

Production shutdown at VW SK may affect Slovak economy

A potential shutdown of production at VW SK plants could impact the Slovak economy.

Even a [factory-wide] holiday at Volkswagen affects Slovakias [economic] figures, because the plant is a flagship of our economy, said Finance Minister Peter Kazimir. Any interruption to the usual production cycle at this plant could affect the overall economic figures for the quarter concerned.

The ministrys Financial Policy Institute (IFP) estimates VW SKs daily revenues at 6.3 million. IFO director Lucia Sramkova said that 12 consecutive strike days at the plant could result in an impact that is seen in GDP growth, specifically 0.1 percent of GDP.
Behavior Management

Hero K12 Rounds Up $150 Million to Acquire Other Ed Tech Companies

Hero K12 wants to support the full journey of a student throughout school. Today, the Florida-based company revealed it has received $150 million in equity investment funding to acquire other education technology companies and to continue building a data-driven platform that helps foster a positive school culture.

Heros SaaS (software as a service) platform offers schools student behavior tracking and referral management. Teachers and administrators can use the platform to promote a positive school culture by reinforcing good behavior with rewards. They receive reports that enable them to intervene when necessary. If a student is late for class, for example, teachers will be able to scan the student's ID card to issue a digital tardy pass and notify the student's parents.

The company received more than $150 million from Boston-based BV Investment Partners to boost its acquisition capacity, according to a company announcement.

Chief Product and Strategy Officer Oliver Wreford commented in the statement that the company will zero-in on educational technologies that collectively solve challenges schools face in adopting technology. These solutions will also streamline administrative processes, provide educators ready access to student data, and connect stakeholders within the school community, said Wreford, who previously sat on the executive team for PowerSchool.

They have demonstrated a tremendously healthy and scalable model for success with Hero, and they have clear plans for building an all-encompassing Ed Tech business, said Justin Harrison, managing director of BV Investment Partners, in the statement. Their portfolio strategy will broaden their service offering, focusing on the whole-child, and creating learning environments that allow all children to grow and succeed at school. We look forward to supporting them in Hero K12s next phase of growth.

To learn more, watch a video overview of Hero K12 on Vimeo or visit the company site.
Issues of concern to people who live in the west: property rights, water rights, endangered species, livestock grazing, energy production, wilderness and western agriculture. Plus a few items on western history, western literature and the sport of rodeo... Frank DuBois served as the NM Secretary of Agriculture from 1988 to 2003. DuBois is a former legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior, and is the founder of the DuBois Rodeo Scholarship.
Iran Navy

REUTERS/Fars News/Hamed Jafarnejad

The Saudi navy has captured three members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from a boat seized last week as it approached the kingdom's offshore Marjan oilfield, the Saudi information ministry said on Monday.

Relations between the two countries are at their worst in years, with each accusing the other of subverting regional security and support opposite sides in conflicts in Syria, Yemen and Iraq.

"This was one of three vessels which were intercepted by Saudi forces. It was captured with the three men on board, the other two escaped," a statement from the ministry's center for international communications said.

"The three captured members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard are now being questioned by Saudi authorities," it said, citing a Saudi official.

The vessel, seized last Friday, was carrying explosives and intended to conduct a "terrorist act" in Saudi territorial waters, it said.

An earlier report from the Saudi Press Agency said the Saudi navy had fired warning shots at the two boats that managed to escape.

Iran's Tasnim news agency said on Saturday that Saudi border guards had opened fire on an Iranian fishing boat in the Gulf on Friday, killing a fisherman. It said the boat was one of two Iranian boats fishing in the Gulf that had been pushed off course by waves.

Tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia have steadily deteriorated. On June 5, Riyadh and other Arab governments severed ties with Qatar, citing its support of Iran as a reason.

Days later, suicide bombings and shootings in Tehran killed at least 17 people. Shi'ite Muslim Iran repeated accusations that Saudi Arabia funds Sunni Islamist militants, including Islamic State. Riyadh has denied involvement in the attacks.

NOW WATCH: Airplanes have a secret engine hidden in the tail

See Also:
The University of North Georgia (UNG) has a new partnership with Stellenbosch University in South Africa, fulfilling UNGs goal to establish partnerships with institutions in each major region of the world. UNG is the first senior military college in the U.S. to partner with Stellenbosch.

The agreement was signed by UNG President Bonita Jacobs and Willem de Villiers, rector and vice-chancellor of Stellenbosch, in a ceremony held June 14 at UNGs Dahlonega Campus. The ceremony was attended by faculty and administrators from both universities, as well as special guests South African Supreme Court Justice Deon Van Zyl and retired Lt. Gen. Burke Garrett, a UNG alumnus who served as commanding general of both U.S. Army Africa and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force from 2008 to 2010.

"We have so much enthusiasm for this agreement and the opportunities that it presents because of the quality of the students we have at our two schools, the focus on academics that we both share and, of course, the geographic location of your university in a region where UNG has sought to partner with a world-class institution, Jacobs said at a celebration of the new partnership, during which the two presidents discussed ideas for cooperation and exchange.

Established in 1918, Stellenbosch is a major research university with approximately 31,000 students and is ranked 407th worldwide by U.S. News & World Report. The multi-campus university has 10 colleges and seven research centers of excellence. The South African Military Academy, part of Stellenbosch since 1958, produces military officers and offers bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees in military science. Stellenbosch also shares most academic areas in common with UNG, including international affairs, health, languages, criminal justice, geospatial, computer science, cyber security, security and military studies, leadership development, and ethics.

"Weve been on a tour of the United States in the past 10 days or so  but I can tell you that this is an absolute highlight, to come to UNG and sign this agreement," de Villiers said. "We are the only university in South Africa that has a (college) of military science. I think that is why this is especially opportune that we get into this relationship with UNG and we really look forward to it."

De Villiers also touted Stellenboschs programs in oenology and viticulture, spurred by the universitys location in South Africas wine-growing region, and theology.

The partnership will begin with a cadet exchange between the two schools but will expand opportunities for faculty and students in a variety of academic areas that could include research, student teaching, cooperation on scholarly publications, and collaborative degree programs.

The first UNG student to participate in the exchange is Cadet Sgt. Noah Hebert, who is majoring in computer information systems with a minor in cyber security; he leaves for South Africa in early July to spend six months studying at the South African Military Academy in Saldanha, Western Cape. Hebert, who is making his first study abroad trip, plans to take several military courses, including history of both World Wars.

"I look forward to the new experience and the different landscape of Africa and South Africa," Hebert said. "I look forward to seeing how the South African military operates and what I can learn from that to bring back here."

The agreement with Stellenbosch is one of several new partnerships this year between UNG and international colleges and universities, including the National University of Public Service in Budapest, Hungary, signed in mid-May at UNG. Other partnerships being finalized include schools or programs in Latvia, Estonia, Austria, and New Zealand.
Suzanna Montoya is strong-willed, tough-talking, wise  and loving. She is a symbol of mid-20th century female empowerment before the feminist movement came into play.

Susanna is the protagonist in Irene I. Bleas novel Beneath the Super Moon.

One aspect of Suzannas character is based on the story of my aunt on my fathers side. I wanted to capture the (New Mexico Hispanic) tradition of marrying younger women to older men, Blea said in a phone interview. 

In the novel, Suzanna reflects on her arranged marriage to the much older Felipe. She bore him two sons, Celestino and Efran, but she left him and the boys because Felipe was abusive. Felipe divorced Suzanna, who was forced to give up her visitation rights with her children.

Over the years, Suzanna talks about supporting herself working in a bar.

And in doing so, she had to fend off derision from her ex about being a loose woman (una mujer suelta). But her best friend Beatriz endorsed Suzannas life as a liberated adult.

Suzanna may have been estranged from her sons, but she stays in touch with a granddaughter and niece. For them, Suzanna becomes the voice of wisdom, advising them to stand up for themselves, to get a college education at the University of New Mexico, to be politically active.

Its all about Suzannas belief that younger generations of Hispanic women should be whatever they want to be, despite what parents or grandparents might say.

Suzanna is the lens through which readers learn about the her familys relationships as well as learn about New Mexicos Hispanic culture and the rising influence of the Chicano movement. The novel covers the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s.

Purposely unstated is the geographical setting of the third volume, but the author notes that Suzanna lives alone in a small house in a community between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. Blea wants readers to look at the protagonists state of being.

Beneath the Super Moon is the final volume in a trilogy. The first volume, Suzanna (2010), is set in northern New Mexico, where the authors family is from. Book 2, Poor Peoples Flowers, (2014) is set in Pueblo, Colo.

In Book 2, I wanted to document women migrating. Usually they were doing so because they were running away from something, as Suzanna does, said Blea, an Albuquerque resident.

The back story is how people migrated out of New Mexico, to Colorado, Wyoming and some into California and Arizona. Part of what Im doing is documenting the history of Spanish-speaking people in New Mexico.

Taken together the three books cover the period from 1920 to 1965.

Bleas deft storytelling in Beneath the Super Moon is unfortunately bruised by a number of editing miscues, especially misspellings.

Blea wrote the book Daughters of the West Mesa, an investigation into the infamous series of unsolved crimes  the young women murdered and dumped on Albuquerques West Mesa.

She is also a writer of radical feminist poetry and the author of eight sociology textbooks on race and gender relations.
By this time next year, the Zuni Fetish Museum and Center for Indigenous Art Studies will open its doors in Albuquerques Old Town.

Author of numerous books on the tiny carvings, Kent McManis and his partner, Yvonne Stokes, are opening the 2,500-square-foot museum in the shops at Plaza Hacienda, beside the parking lot near the Albuquerque Museum.

Although some state and private museums feature Zuni fetishes in their collections, many of them are misidentified and often buried within more show-stopping displays of items such as jewelry, Stokes said.

The ones that are on display are not properly displayed because they are so small, she said.

McManis and Stokes are the owners of Grey Dog Trading, 400 San Felipe NW in Old Town.

Originally intended for ceremonial use, fetishes are used by all of the pueblos. The Zunis are considered the master carvers.

When theyre going to do a hunt or curing ceremony, the fetishes are there, Stokes said. Almost all the Zunis keep a set at home.

The carving of animals from stone and shell dates to prehistoric times.

A carver named Theodore Kucate was the first to sell his work for the commercial market. The Zunis traditionally produced bears, mountain lions, wolves, badgers, moles and eagles. Kucate was the first to carve animals outside that tradition, Stokes said.

The Zuni Museum will be the first dedicated to a single Native American art form, she said.

The museum will be privately funded, with its initial displays from the founders own collections, as well as its seven board members. Additional funding will come from admissions and gift shop sales, as well as private donations.

We are not asking for government funds, Stokes said.We know where all the important pieces are, and we know what people we can borrow them from.

McManis is a regular judge at the Santa Fe Indian Market, the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market and the Gallup Ceremonial. Stokes is the former manager of Andrews Pueblo Pottery.
BULLETIN BOARD

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the Alamogordo campus of New Mexico State University presents the Business Taxes Workshop from 10 a.m.-noon today at 2400 N. Scenic Dr. in Alamogordo. Participants will receive an overview of gross receipts reporting and tax rates. The class will cover the basics of exemptions and deductions, tax forms, non-taxable transaction certificates (NTTCs), and electronic filings. The workshop will also provide an overview of federal and state income-tax requirements as they relate to small-business owners. Topics include unemployment tax; 1040 estimated payments; and the 1040 Schedule C. Admission is free.

To register or for additional information, call 575-439-3660 or email kat2@nmsu.edu.

The Northern New Mexico chapter of ARMA International meets at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday at the New Mexico State Treasurers Office in Santa Fe, 2055 S. Pacheco St., Suite 100. The featured presentation is Best Practices in Defensible Disposition, by Jennifer Crawford, CRM, of Iron Mountain. Crawford will speak about the critical steps organizations need to take to protect their companies from the consequences of inadvertent destruction of records in the event of litigation. Admission is free to ARMA members and $5 for others. For additional information or advance registration, visit www.armannm.org.

WELCOME

Luis Gomez has joined Sauce Pizza & Wine as kitchen manager for the companys new Winrock location in Albuquerque. Gomez has extensive experience in the restaurant industry and previously was the kitchen manager for Applebees and the assistant general manager for Golden Corral. He is a certified butcher and chef.

Rikki-Lee Chavez has joined the law firm of Gallagher & Kennedy as an associate. Chavez previously had a private practice in northern New Mexico. She will primarily focus her practice in the areas of government affairs and environmental and natural resources law, regulatory administrative law, and litigation. Chavez has a bachelors degree in journalism and Spanish and a law degree, both from the University of New Mexico. She is a member of the New Mexico State Bar, Young Lawyers Division; New Mexico Mining Association; Association of Commerce and Industry; New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyers Association; and the Hispanic Bar of New Mexico.

Mack MacReady has joined Consolidated Solar Technologies as the commercial projects manager for the companys new commercial team. MacReady previously was the regional operations and sales manager for Suntech Energy Solutions. He also previously held management positions at Honeywell, JCI, Siemens, the Trane Co. and as an energy adviser at the University of Texas at Austin.

Peak Hospitalitys Wyndham Hotel and Conference Center has hired two new staff members for its executive team. They are:

Adrienne Kerr, rooms division manager. Kerr previously was the assistant general manager at the Hyatt House in San Ramon, Calif.; and the front desk manager at Hotel Nikko. She has a bachelors degree from Humboldt State University.

Clarissa Baca, director of catering. Baca previously worked as the director of catering at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid. She has a bachelors degree in education and a masters degree in education, both from UNM.

APPLAUSE

Four engineers from Sandia National Laboratories have been elected Fellows of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Election to Fellow recognizes exceptional engineering achievements and contributions to the engineering profession, according to the organization. Sandia engineers elected to Fellow are:

Cliff Ho, who has led innovations in solar energy, water treatment and nuclear waster management. Ho recently led a team that developed the worlds first high-temperature falling particle receiver system for concentrating solar power. His work helped to improve concentrating solar power performance and capabilities while lowering the cost of the large-scale source of clean energy.

Alexander Brown, who has conducted safety assessments for the Mars Science Laboratory rover. Brown researches and assesses fire and its impact on systems in the Engineering Science Center. His improvements in code and model development, simulation analysis and experimental testing has allowed him to make significant contributions to the understanding of fire and basic energy technologies.

Hy Tran, who has developed and maintained precise measurement standards for nuclear weapons components. Tran provides technical leadership for all dimensional, force and mass measurement science (metrology) with the Department of Energy and National Nuclear Security Administration. He has improved the accuracy of high fidelity measurements and standards needed for high-reliability nuclear weapons components through innovative statistical modeling.

Kevin Dowding, who has developed advanced standards for computational modeling in nuclear weapon design. Dowding has made significant technical and leadership contributions to national security by developing computational modeling for nuclear weapon design. He has served as the technical lead to integrate computational modeling for the design and qualification of Sandias B61 life extension program.
Trade is a multifaceted concept.

At its most basic level, it consists of two or more companies from different countries engaging in an agreement to exchange products or services for compensation. Logistics companies then move the products to their final destination. These transactions occur every minute of the day around the world.

At a more macro level, trade is a geopolitical tool that is used as part of a governments diplomatic strategy to further its interests in strategic locations.

Such is the case with Russia. Reports have surfaced that during the first two months of 2017, this countrys trade with international pariah North Korea has ballooned by more than 73 percent, compared to the same period in 2016. This increase is comprised mostly of Russian exports of coal to North Korea, and Russian participation in North Korean infrastructure projects such as railway upgrades and ocean ferries. Russia also has agreed to allow an additional 400,000 North Korean workers to work in Russian forestry and construction industries, which will result in more money flowing back to the Kim Jong Un administration in North Korea.

Russias moves are not coincidental. In fact, they are an opportunistic reaction to the pressure that North Korea is receiving for its aggressive behavior with its neighbors in the region. Leading the pushback on North Korea through sanctions have been the U.S. and China, with the latter curbing its coal exports to the country as punishment for the instability it is causing in the region. By choosing to fill the void in North Korea being left by countries such as China, Russia is not only generating foreign revenues, it is flexing its muscles to block U.S. and Chinese influence in a strategic part of the world, virtually at its borders.

Another example of trade as a geopolitical tool is the increasing presence of China in Latin America and its growing influence throughout Asia. Chinese leaders and diplomats are a constant presence throughout Latin America, as they test the waters left churning by the uncertain stance on trade that the U.S. has developed under President Donald Trump. On June 13, longtime U.S. ally Panama announced that it was cutting ties with Taiwan and establishing ties with China under the One China policy, long advocated by this Asian nation. This is a major win for China.

Throughout Latin America, U.S. allies and trading partners, who are attempting to interpret where they will stand in the future as pertains to trade with their giant northern neighbor, are using China as a bargaining chip and are openly discussing increased trade and diplomatic relations with that country. Mexican officials, having been accused by Trump of benefiting unfairly under the North American Free Trade Agreement, have publicly stated the countrys willingness to increase ties to China.

Now that the U.S. has announced that it is pulling out of the Trans Pacific Partnership, China can forge a trade agreement with Asian and Latin American partners that will allow it to take the lead in shaping future trade policy in the region. By developing stronger trade ties in Asia and Latin America, Chinas political influence in both regions will grow in the future.

After last months G-7 meeting, which took place in Italy, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, a traditionally staunch U.S. ally, stated in reaction to Trumps viewpoints at the meeting, that Europe really must take our fate into our own hands, and, The times in which we could rely fully on others, they are somewhat over. This is what I experienced in the last few days.

The U.S. has not seen such a turn to isolationism since the period after World War I, which eventually helped precipitate World War II. China and Russia are historic adversaries of the U.S., and both will fill the void left by the U.S. if it chooses to restrict trade in places such as Latin America, Asia and Europe. The U.S. has played the trade-geopolitical game against these two rivals for the better part of 60 years. However, it is especially disconcerting that our own traditional allies, such as Germany, are viewing the U.S. as an unsteady ally that has quickly abandoned old friends.

Whatever trade relationship the U.S. chooses to abandon, the void will be filled by another country or adversary willing to step in. In this sense, moving towards isolationism does not put America first; rather, it endangers our ability to conduct foreign policy in the future, thus compromising our global interests.

Jerry Pacheco is the executive director of the International Business Accelerator, a nonprofit trade counseling program of the New Mexico Small Business Development Centers Network. He can be reached at 575-589-2200 or at jerry@nmiba.com.
WASHINGTON  President Trump now finds himself exactly where he doesnt want to be: under investigation by a dogged, highly respected prosecutor who owes him no personal or political loyalty. And the president has only himself to blame.

Trump let off some steam Thursday morning by issuing a couple of angry statements on Twitter: They made up a phony collusion with the Russians story, found zero proof, so now they go for obstruction of justice on the phony story. Nice. And then: You are witnessing the single greatest WITCH HUNT in American political history  led by some very bad and conflicted people!

Someone please take away his phone.

Not for the first time, Trump gives a false impression of whats really going on. He pretends there has already been a finding that there was no collusion between anyone involved in his presidential campaign and the Russian attempt to meddle in our election. No such conclusion has been reached.

To the contrary: Thanks to The Washington Post, we now know that collusion is only one of three subject areas that the FBI investigation, now led by special counsel Robert Mueller, is exploring.

Another is, indeed, the possibility that Trump may have obstructed justice in his repeated efforts to quash the investigation. How could any prosecutor fail to pursue this line of inquiry? Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, sent out spokespeople and surrogates with a far-fetched cover story to explain the dismissal, and then told NBCs Lester Holt that the real reason for the firing was Comeys pursuit of the Russia investigation. Trump also bragged to visiting Russian diplomats that getting rid of Comey relieved him of great pressure because of Russia.

Those very public actions and statements alone cry out for investigation. But Comey has testified under oath that in a private meeting, Trump raised the investigation of fired national security adviser Michael Flynn  part of the larger Russia probe  and said, I hope you can see your way clear to letting this go, to letting Flynn go. Comey said he took this hope, coming from the president of the United States, as a direction.

Trump also reportedly asked Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats and CIA Director Mike Pompeo to intercede with Comey on the Flynn case, then later asked Coats and National Security Agency chief Mike Rogers to state publicly that Trump was not personally under investigation. Apparently, none of the officials complied with these requests.

In sworn testimony on Capitol Hill, Coats and Rogers declined to speak about their conversations with the president  though it is doubtful they had any legal right to keep mum. According to the Post, Mueller plans to interview both officials soon.

To me, this looks, walks and quacks like a pattern. Perhaps it does to Mueller as well.

Finally, we know that Muellers investigators are also looking for any evidence of possible financial crimes among Trump associates, as the Post phrased it. It goes without saying that discovering any money flows between Trump campaign officials or advisers and Russian government-linked individuals or institutions would be explosive. That is why investigators want to know more about a meeting between Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner and executives of Vnesheconombank, a Russian state-owned development bank now under U.S. sanctions.

Those are the prongs of the investigation  that we know of. Attention is focused on the question of obstruction simply because so much of Trumps campaign to deep-six the investigation has been conducted openly, at full volume. Other presidents have managed to compartmentalize investigations and go about the business of governing, but Trump seems consumed by the Mueller probe. His related tweet is just a Trumpian version of what appears to be the official White House line  that this is somehow a partisan attempt to delegitimize the Trump presidency.

But it is not. As Trump still struggles to acknowledge, the U.S. intelligence community is fully convinced that Russia carried out an attack on our democracy. We need to know what happened so that we can ensure it never happens again. Why would the president object to a thorough investigation  unless he had something to hide?
Given its makeup  officials from the city, the county, probation and parole, the New Mexico Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the public defenders office, the 2nd Judicial District Court, the countys Metropolitan Court, the Administrative Office of the Courts and the District Attorneys Office  its surprising that the Bernalillo County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council cant quite see the light to comply with the states Open Meetings Act.

So Albuquerque Police Chief Gorden Eden, 2nd Judicial District Attorney Raul Torrez and Rob Perry, Albuquerques chief administrative officer, have asked state Attorney General Hector Balderas, in a letter, to require the council to open their meetings to the public.

The council meets monthly to discuss public safety and criminal justice issues  weighty issues in a metro area beset with crime and sitting at the very apex of the car thievery meter. Why wouldnt their discussions be put out there for everyone to see or hear?

Local law enforcement and Albuquerque city officials want the council to take that step. However, court officials and public defenders are balking.

Because the council was originally controlled by the court, its meetings didnt have to comply with the Open Meetings Act, according to Chief District Judge Nan Nash. Plus, court officials said there is the knotty problem of which agency would do the paperwork to comply. Surely a group of educated, highly motivated and dedicated public servants could put their heads together and figure out the details.

This should be a no-brainer  the council creates public policy and is bound by law to follow the states sunshine law. Stalling serves no one.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
Albuquerque mayoral candidate Wayne Johnson came out swinging against fellow Republican Dan Lewis last week.

I believe I have a track record. Im not running from my record, Johnson said Thursday during a mayoral forum organized and hosted by the New Mexico Utility Contractors Association. Im not trying to give you bold solutions, or, as I call them, BS, he added, an apparent reference to City Councilor Lewis platform, which includes enacting bold, new solutions.

Later, in response to a question about infrastructure spending, Johnson, a county commissioner, said, You dont pass a budget that has a $4.5 million gap in it. That affects your bond rating, and if your bond rating goes down, then youre paying more to borrow money to do infrastructure projects. The city recently passed  I wont mention any names, but there might be a councilor here today   recently overrode a veto from the mayor, and in effect passed a budget that was broken, $4.5 million under water.

Responding to the digs, Lewis at one point said, When youre behind in the polls, you criticize other opponents, and its a sad campaign. Im going to talk about real solutions for the city.

The mayoral forum showcased Johnson, Lewis, state Auditor Tim Keller, a Democrat, and Brian Colon, the former chairman of the state Democratic Party. Organizers said they invited those candidates because they have the highest name recognition.

Taxing question

Johnson and Republican businessman Ricardo Chaves were no-shows at a separate forum on Thursday evening hosted by the Bernalillo County Democratic Party. Mayoral candidates attending were Keller; Colon; Lewis; Democrat Gus Pedrotty, a recent University of New Mexico graduate; independent Susan Wheeler-Deichsel, founder of the civic group Urban ABQ; and independent Michelle Garcia Holmes, former chief of staff for the state Attorney Generals Office and a retired Albuquerque police detective.

Candidates were asked if they would support a quarter cent gross receipts tax for public safety.

Wheeler-Deichsel said she would if voters approved it. Keller, Colon and Pedrotty said they would if it were necessary and if voters signed off on it, though Pedrotty argued the city would save money by effectively staffing the police department.

Lewis and Garcia Holmes said no. Lewis said the city needs to better prioritize its resources. Garcia Holmes said were taxed to death, adding that the money likely wouldnt get to where it was needed.

Election day is Oct. 3.
An increasing number of Latino families are happy with their childrens schools, though institutional racism and unequal funding are still significant concerns, according to a new national poll.

The Leadership Conference Education Funds second annual New Education Majority Poll found that three-quarters of Latino parents believe U.S. public schools are doing a good job preparing Latino students for success, a 10-point improvement over last year.

Perceptions of disparity based on race and income have decreased among Latino parents, the report states, and 52 percent now believe that Latino students receive as good an education as their Anglo peers.

The improvement is most pronounced among Spanish-dominant families  a significant demographic in New Mexico, which has the nations highest percentage of English language learners in the classroom.

Overall, Latino parents expressed greater confidence in the education system than black parents.

According to the poll, 66 percent of black parents think their childrens schools are preparing them for success, an eight-point increase.

Liz King, senior policy analyst and director of education policy for the Leadership Conference Education Fund, said its not completely clear why Spanish-dominant households were particularly positive on the poll.

But based on our experience, recent immigrants and Spanish-dominant Latinos tend to be more trusting of, and have more faith in, institutions than African-Americans, whose longer history and experience in the U.S. makes them more aware of how American institutions fail them, she said in an emailed statement.

At the same time, Latino and black parents expressed concerns about racism and funding levels for minority-dominant schools. Both groups said they believe those two factors are the strongest drivers of the achievement gap.

This year, 42 percent of black parents and 28 percent of Latino parents cited racism in response to an open-ended question about the reasons minority students dont receive as good an education as white students. In 2016, those numbers were 32 percent and 20 percent, respectively.

King attributes the change to the increasingly xenophobic climate in America right now.

Matt Hogan, partner at Anzalone Liszt Grove Research, which conducted the poll, said the responses show a greater sense of racism driving inequity, but on the other hand, especially with Spanish-speakers, an overall sense that their school has improved.

I dont see them as exclusive, he said.

One bright spot for New Mexico: Black and Latino families are more likely to say schools are doing their best to educate minorities if their children have many teachers from the same background.

The Land of Enchantment is third in the nation for its rate of teachers of color  43 percent compared with 18 percent nationally, according to a 2016 Learning Policy Institute study.

Angelo J. Gonzales, executive director of Mission: Graduate, a New Mexico organization focused on improving graduation rates, said many community partners have cited minority teachers as a factor in student success.

They do place a high premium on the value of culture and making sure that the environment we are creating in schools is reflective of our communities, he said.

The New Education Majority Poll was conducted in early March with 600 black and 600 Latino parents from across the country. A third of the Latino interviews were conducted in Spanish. The survey has a 4 percent margin of error.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

Its bad enough that Donna Burk will have to forgo a vacation so she can fill in as caregiver for her 96-year-old mother.

Its even worse that Burk, a 65-year-old widow, will have to postpone retirement. She already lives paycheck to paycheck at her job working 12-hour shifts and now shell have to shoulder new expenses for Mom.

What makes it especially hard is that Burk says she has to hide the fact that her mothers financial lifeline  a $32,000 trust with Desert State Life Management of New Mexico  has disappeared.

Theres no way you can tell her, Burk said in a telephone interview from their home in another state. It would absolutely destroy her. This is only $32,000, but that $32,000 was going to keep her until the end of her life.

Burks mother is a former Rio Rancho real estate broker who is among the 70 or so clients whose trust assets were supposed to be safe with the nonprofit trust company based in Albuquerque. But state and federal authorities say a recent financial examination of the company showed more than $4 million in client funds were diverted to personal and business accounts of the CEO of Desert State, Paul A. Donisthorpe.

State financial regulators, who have not been optimistic about recovering the money, have moved to put Desert State into receivership and the FBI went to federal court June 15 in an attempt to seize property owned by Donisthorpe and his wife, criminal defense lawyer Liane Kerr.

Burk contacted the Journal last week to speak up because there are a lot of people (who have been harmed) who cant speak for themselves. Its sickening. How on earth in this country can we allow something like this?

Burk said her mother grew up during the Depression and oversaw nine different checking accounts in her own real estate business. But she still panics about money.

She pulls out her wallet almost every day and checks what shes got. She says, I need to sit down and get straight with you. I owe you money. My parents never wanted to take from anybody. They always wanted to give.

Burk said her mother was the beneficiary of a trust set up after her husband died in 2008. When the balance dipped below $100,000, the trust was moved in 2012 to Desert State at the recommendation of another New Mexico trust company. Desert State handled smaller accounts, they were told, and charged lower fees to maintain and invest the assets.

In February, Burks mother moved in with her because she needed more care than her independent living home could provide.

Moms Social Security doesnt cover the cost of medications and other expenses, so small draws on the trust helped pay for those costs along with a part-time caregiver who helps out while Burk is at work. Burk said she will now likely have to cut back the 71-year-old caregivers hours. She is saving up her paid vacation days from work, so she can fill in.

Who ever would have known? Burk said. My main goal of the trust was to always stretch it out so well have it. Shes going to be 97, and shes going to make it to 100. Shes determined; she wants to. Shes unbelievable. Shes the Eveready battery.

Burks mother, a New York native, didnt retire until she was 75. She noticed that Desert State had stopped sending statements about her trust account last year.

Burk said that when she called Desert State to ask about the statements, she was told Desert State was no longer furnishing them.

I said to them, that doesnt feel good; why is that? They said they had gone to different software and it was too expensive (to send statements). She asked them to prepare a statement  what would be her last  which in January showed just under $32,000 in the account.

Burk said she has since spoken with compassionate state officials about the trust loss, and she urges all of the lawyers, judges and attorneys general to please take this to heart as if it were their own.

She looks ahead at what could be a long wait as the state tries to recoup client funds, if possible.

I dont want to get this for my mom when shes gone. I want it now, to take care of her. When you think of it, it does not just affect my mothers $32,000. Now it affects me having to make up that $32,000. Its a double whammy.

Burk said she is trusting in God. Still, late at night when she cant sleep, she watches television to escape her financial worries.

My first thought is that my mom, and these other people, may have to go into nursing homes. But my mom will not go to a nursing home. She will not go on Medicaid, because to her, thats welfare. If she has to go to a nursing home, shell die. Im not going to do that to my mom.

Im trying to maintain, but every time I look at my mom, I feel so guilty. She tells me at night, I know Im a burden, and I tell her, Youre not a burden. Youre a blessing. 
ALAMOGORDO  Local Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) customers have been the target of scammers this week, according to a PNM press release.

The scammers will call PNM customers seeking immediate payment for alleged overdue bills.

PNM, the largest electricity provider in New Mexico, serves an estimated 500,000 customers across the state.

PNM Communications Spokesman Dan Ware released a statement Thursday that there have been several reports that a man identifying himself as a PNM account specialist named Anthony had been calling commercial business customers and demanding payment.

Customers claim that the caller has been leaving messages, giving them a fake PNM work order number and asking them to call 1-800-792-1269, Ware wrote in the release. He then also says that someone named Eric will come to them to collect an overdue payment in cash.

PNM is warning customers in the Alamogordo area that this is a scam and they are not to submit payment to either of these individuals.

Commercial businesses seem to be the target of this current scam, but PNM believes its possible the scammers will target customers all over New Mexico, both business and residential.

In their statement, PNM advises their customers to be on guard and recognize the signs of a scam. They suggest customers check their bill, if they have not received a bold disconnect notice on page one, its a scam.

PNM said if customers are asked to purchase prepaid gift cards, this is a scam also.

PNM said they do sometimes call customers who are past due on their account, but scammers would have no way of knowing who those customers are.

If residents are concerned they are the target of a scam, PNM asks them to call PNM Customer Service immediately at 888-DIAL-PNM (888-342-5766) or call their local police department.



2017 the Alamogordo Daily News (Alamogordo, N.M.)

Visit the Alamogordo Daily News (Alamogordo, N.M.) at www.alamogordonews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FARMINGTON  This years Farmington American Indian ambassador is the first male to win the title since the contest revised its eligibility for applicants.

Farmington resident Christopher Taylor Benally, 18, won the title on June 9.

For me to win the title, its an honor and a blessing because you hardly see male titleholders. Knowing the previous titleholders for the ambassador, it seems like fun to represent my community, Benally said in an interview on Thursday.

In 2015, the contest transitioned from a competition for young women to an event in which both genders compete for the title and the chance to represent the city and its Native American residents.

Benally said he wants his win to be an eye opener for young Native men to seek similar roles because it incorporates responsibility and the opportunity to represent the community.

He was the only male to run for the title this year alongside three young women when the competition took place at the Farmington Indian Center.

Benally is Ashiihii (Salt People Clan), born for Kinlichiinii (Red House Clan). His maternal grandfather clan is Naakai dinee (Mexican Clan), and his paternal grandfather clan is Kinyaaaanii (Towering House Clan).

He graduated from Piedra Vista High School in May and plans to attend San Juan College in the fall, where he will start classes for a veterinarian technician certification before transferring to a four-year university.

His goal is to earn a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Colorado State University in Fort Collins.

Im from a long line of ranchers. I also grew up with the ranch life. Knowing certain animals, I always wanted to know how certain things are within an animal, Benally said.

Although he was raised in Farmington, Benally spent weekends with his maternal grandparents, Edison and Mary Sandoval, learning about livestock on the familys ranch in the Dzilth-Na-O-Dith-Hle area.

He is also learning the Navajo language from his grandparents and his mother, Edwina Sandoval, and describes himself as an intermediate speaker.

I love my cheii (grandfather) and ama sani (grandmother). I always say theyre my dictionary. Ill go up to my cheii, and Ill ask him about certain stories, he said.

During the competition, Benally sang a horse song in the Navajo language that he learned from his grandfather.

This is the second title Benally has won. He also served as Dine king at Piedra Vista for the 2016-2017 school year.

As for his status as ambassador, Benally said he wants to be a role model, as well, as encouraging young people to learn their culture and language, no matter their ethnicity.

From my experience living in Farmington, we are a mixed culture, he said.

Noel Lyn Smith covers the Navajo Nation for The Daily Times. She can be reached at 505-564-4636.



2017 The Daily Times (Farmington, N.M.)

Visit The Daily Times (Farmington, N.M.) at www.daily-times.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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BRUSSELS  Talks on Britain leaving the European Union began Monday with both sides saying they will focus first on an orderly withdrawal: a deal for citizens living in each others territory, border arrangements between Ireland and the U.K. and the amount that Britain will pay to get out of previous EU commitments.

Both EU negotiator Michel Barnier and his British counterpart David Davis said after the first negotiating session they were confident of quick progress but said major challenges lay ahead to meet the deadline of March 2019 for Britain to officially leave the bloc.

In the first step, we will deal with the most pressing issues. We must lift the uncertainty caused by Brexit, said Barnier. In a second step, we will scope our future partnership.

From his comments, it appeared that the Brexit talks will largely follow the EUs conditions and will center on the two sides new relationship only once sufficient progress has been made on the withdrawal issues.

Davis was heartened by the spirit of the talks, during which the negotiators, both interested in mountaineering, exchanged a walking stick and a hiking book.

Barnier said there will be one week of negotiations every month and the two sides will use the time in between to work out proposals. Both sides will put top advisers to work immediately on a border agreement between Ireland and the United Kingdom, aiming to make sure the Irish peace agreement and the common travel area should as unaffected by Britains EU departure as possible.

While the EU negotiating team led by Barnier has been ready for months, British efforts on Brexit stalled even after it triggered the two-year process on March 29. An early election this month, in which British Prime Minister Theresa May lost her Conservative majority in parliament, only added to the problems.

Time is pressing. After Britains June 23, 2016 referendum to leave the bloc, the other 27 nations wanted to start the exit talks as soon as possible so they could work on their own futures, but Britain long seemed dazed by its own momentous move.

And even when May finally triggered the two-year unraveling process on March 29, she followed it up by calling an early election on June 8 that she hoped would strengthen her majority in parliament and thus her negotiating mandate with the EU.

The move backfired, May lost her Conservative majority in the vote and has been fending off critics of her leadership ever since.

Still, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson remained upbeat Monday, saying he thinks the Brexit negotiations will yield a happy resolution that can be done with profit and honor for both sides.

Johnson also urged Europeans to look further down the road.

The most important thing for us is to look to the horizon, raise our eyes to the horizon. In the long run, this will be good for the U.K. and good for the rest of Europe, Johnson said at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
CALHAN, Colo.  Some Colorado horses are getting another chance at a good life after being surrendered by their owners to a national rescue group.

The Tennessee-based Horse Plus Humane Society accepted 35 horses without any questions Sunday at the El Paso County Fairgrounds in Calhan. It was one of 13 such events planned by the group around the country this year.

The Gazette of Colorado Springs reports that some owners couldnt pay for medical treatment for their animals while others didnt have enough time for owning a horse.

Veterinarian and volunteer Alyssa King says the horses that were surrendered werent neglected nor overly thin.

The horses will be evaluated to see if they can be adopted. If horses are in grave condition, the group will pay for them to be euthanized.

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Information from: The Gazette, http://www.gazette.com
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  A body was found in New Mexico not far from where a Colorado pastor parked his vehicle before heading out to search for a supposed hidden cache of gold and jewels that has inspired thousands to hunt in vain across remote corners of the Western U.S., authorities said Monday.

Medical investigators have yet to identify the body, but all the evidence so far indicates it is that of missing pastor Paris Wallace of Grand Junction, State Police Lt. Elizabeth Armijo said.

The case has reignited calls by some to end a treasure hunt that has had deadly outcomes and forces public resources to be spent on search and rescue efforts.

Last year, a Colorado man died in the New Mexico backcountry while searching for the bounty that an antiquities dealer said he stashed somewhere in the Rocky Mountains. Its led treasure hunters to comb secluded areas of New Mexico, Yellowstone National Park and elsewhere.

In the latest case, crews began looking for Wallace last week after his family reported him missing.

Family members told authorities that Wallace had come to New Mexico to search for the treasure of Forrest Fenn, who announced several years ago that he hid a small bronze chest containing nearly $2 million in gold, jewelry and artifacts in the Rockies.

Fenn has dropped clues to the chests whereabouts in a cryptic poem in his memoir, The Thrill of the Chase.

Treasure hunters have shared their experiences on blogs and have brainstormed about the clues.

Many renewed their support for Fenn on social media Monday despite critics raising questions about the dangers of venturing into the rugged areas where some of the clues have led.

Wallaces vehicle was found Thursday near the Rio Grande after authorities traced the location where he last used his cellphone.

Armijo told The Daily Sentinel newspaper in Grand Junction (http://bit.ly/2sFbxeZ ) on Friday that investigators also found a rope tied across one of the rivers tributaries that they believe Wallace had purchased and his backpack in the waters of the Rio Grande a few miles downstream.

Members of Wallaces church shared their condolences online and asked for prayers for his family.

Linda Bilyeu, whose ex-husband Randy Bilyeu went missing while searching for the treasure along the Rio Grande in January 2016, was among those calling for an end to the treasure hunt after the latest case.

Another family is left to grieve and carry on without their loved ones, Bilyeu told The Associated Press in an email. Only one man has the power to stop the madness. Yet, he continues to pretend hes doing a good deed by getting people off the couch and into nature.

Fenn did not immediately return messages seeking comment.

As for ending the hunt, he has previously refused, saying that would be unfair to those who have spent their time and money looking for the 40-pound chest.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

District Attorney Raul Torrez said an increasing crime rate, a higher percentage of cases going to trial and gamesmanship by defense attorneys were unforeseen problems caused by a court case management order, which set deadlines for criminal cases in Bernalillo County in an attempt to get speedier trials and deal with an overcrowded jail.

Torrez said he is trying to persuade the state Supreme Court to adjust those orders so that judges have more leeway in deciding what to do when strict deadlines for prosecutions arent met.

The District Attorneys Office on Monday released a report that outlines problems that started after the case management order, or CMO, went into effect in February 2015.

Torrez said he will ask the Bernalillo County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to approve his suggested reforms during its meeting this week and send the proposal to the Supreme Court for consideration.

The DAs Office report says that the CMO is the most likely reason for a recent increase in crime in Albuquerque because so many cases have been dismissed.

Prosecutors also allege that criminal defense attorneys game the deadlines to try to get cases dismissed. They said defense attorneys will try to extend cases by making discovery requests in hopes that prosecutors will miss a deadline so that a case is dismissed, which also explains why an increasing number of cases are going to trial instead of ending with plea agreements.

Torrezs suggestions include ending the practice of dismissing cases because of inmate transportation issues and giving judges more discretion when deadlines arent met.

He said the deadlines for prosecutors in Albuquerque are much more strict when compared with the rest of the state and that hundreds of cases have been dismissed on technicalities.

Its like showing up to a baseball game and they say you were supposed to wear blue shoes and you wore white shoes, so the game is forfeited, Torrez said. Its not connected to the core question: Is this person guilty or not guilty?

Richard Pugh, a district defender for the Law Offices of the Public Defender, said the CMO improved the local criminal justice system but the office would consider the proposed changes. He said public defenders will comment to the Supreme Court about Torrezs recommendations.

Matt Coyte, the president of the New Mexico Criminal Defense Attorneys Association, said the CMO created a more efficient local criminal justice system. He criticized Torrezs analysis that the rules were leading to an increase in jury trials.

Although some changes may be necessary, it is wrong for the DA to criticize the fact that more trials are taking place under the CMO than ever before, Coyte said in an email. Jury trials make up the backbone of a healthy justice system. Coercive plea bargaining must be tempered with access to an efficient trial process.

Officials for the 2nd Judicial District Court said the report would be discussed at the Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils next meeting on Thursday, but court officials declined to comment Monday. The council is comprised of prosecutors, defense attorneys, city and county officials, judges, pretrial services and others.

Torrezs recommendations include:

 Ending the practice of allowing judges to dismiss cases because defendants werent transported to a hearing or a hearing was scheduled in a way that violated CMO deadlines, which are matters that prosecutors dont control.

 Changing language that says judges shall sanction prosecutors for CMO violations to may sanction.

 Creating deadlines for criminal defense attorneys to ask for discovery items or witness lists.

The CMO was created by the coordinating council and approved by the state Supreme Court. The order aimed to address several problems with the local criminal justice system  criminal cases were being significantly delayed and the county jail was overcrowded with long-term pretrial detainees  with deadlines for prosecutors and court cases.

Thousands of criminal cases in recent years since then have either been dismissed by judges or voluntarily dismissed by prosecutors who couldnt make those deadlines.

The prosecutors report said from 2014 to 2016, Bernalillo County saw a 250 percent increase in trials even though the office has 40 percent fewer pending property crime and violent crime cases.

In the same time, the county saw a 117 percent increase in automobile theft, a 42 percent increase in robberies and a 103 percent increase in murder, according to the report.

The report says the CMO is the most likely reason.

Torrez, prosecutors and other officials from the 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office said in an interview with Journal reporters and editors on Monday that the CMO has created a new type of gamesmanship in criminal courts. They said defense attorneys can make voluminous discovery requests at different points in the case to create more chances that prosecutors will miss a deadline and have a case dismissed.

The CMO created a new discovery game when there wasnt one before, said Thomas Outler, a senior trial attorney for the prosecutors office. Before the CMO, if there was a discovery issue it would get worked out, usually cooperatively, by the parties.  Now, its created a game where if we miss any kind of discovery deadline or cant produce a single piece of evidence, however relevant or irrelevant, it becomes an opportunity for (the defense) to win.
Lavu Inc. is offering its point-of-sale software system free of charge to restaurants and bars impacted by the Albuquerque Rapid Transit Project starting this week.

The company will wave its monthly fee for as long as ART construction continues, Lavu President Ohad Jehassi told the Journal on Monday.

We know how difficult its been for businesses along the Central Avenue corridor, and this is our way of helping, Jehassi said. Were located on the same corridor, and were aware of the pain at local restaurants.

Lavus system allows food and beverage establishments to conduct most operations on mobile devices. Restaurants and bars can integrate all front- and back-end operations into a single platform that processes everything in real time.

Table servers, for example, can take orders directly on iPads or smartphones, allowing cooks to instantly read them on screens in the kitchen. The meals are automatically logged and processed for payment at a tablet-based cash register.

Restaurants or bars that already use mobile point-of-sale systems can receive Lavu service for free using the same equipment theyve already installed, Jehassi said. Users do need Lavus PayPal-based credit card reader, but Lavu will provide that to any ART-impacted establishment that wants to connect to the free service.

For restaurants with multiple terminals, savings can add up fast.

The average restaurant we serve has three to four terminals, which could mean a savings of about $270 a month, Jehassi said. And theres no obligation to continue Lavu service after ART construction ends. We just want to help our neighbors.

Lavu, a homegrown Albuquerque startup that launched in 2010, continues to grow rapidly. The company now boasts 20,000 food and beverage businesses using its system in 88 countries.

Lavu employs 117 people, 86 of them at its offices in the Theater Building at Central Avenue and First Street in Downtown. Thats up from about 60 people in early 2016. The company still has 31 positions open, including 25 more in Albuquerque. It also employs some software developers at a new office in India.
Copyright  2017 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  Perhaps some positive budget news is finally on the way.

State revenue is on track to exceed projections by roughly $130 million in the fiscal year ending this month, providing hope that New Mexico will have a touch more breathing room when lawmakers begin crafting another budget.

But dont expect a spending spree.

If the new revenue comes through, it will simply bolster reserves that have been depleted in recent years and help sustain the spending levels already in place  especially important given that one-time funding sources have been tapped for the budget in recent years.

The early look at the budget picture came in a staff presentation Monday to the legislative committee that focuses on revenue and tax policy. The new numbers arent a formal estimate, just a hint of whats to come.

Economists working for the Legislature and Gov. Susana Martinez will issue a new revenue estimate in August.

David Abbey, director of the Legislative Finance Committee, told lawmakers Monday that they can expect plenty of pressure to increase spending when they meet in January to work on the next budget. Higher pay for workers may be one request, he said.

The size of the state workforce, for example, fell about 14 percent over a recent eight-year period, by more than 2,900 employees, according to LFC data. There are higher-than-average vacancy rates among state-employed social workers in Child Protective Services, police officers, forensic scientists and nurses.

Abbey also pointed out that a trial underway this summer focuses on whether the state is providing enough funding for schools.

Its going to be hard to have enough revenues to make our budget balance, said Rep. Jim Trujillo, a Santa Fe Democrat and vice chairman of the Revenue Stabilization and Tax Policy Committee.

Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, said the state must do more to attract industries that will diversify the economy and generate revenue. He helped secure funding for a tax study that could guide efforts to simplify New Mexicos tax code and attract new businesses.

We are addicted to oil and gas in New Mexico, Sharer said. When we dont have oil and gas revenue, we dont have revenue.

As for the better-than-expected revenue this year, its being driven by oil and gas taxes and gross receipts taxes, a sign of increased economic activity in New Mexico.
WASHINGTON  The federal governments consumer financial watchdog is defending his handling of the Wells Fargo & Co. unauthorized accounts scandal in the face of Republican charges that the agency failed to catch the problem and has stymied a congressional investigation into how it handled the case.

Richard Cordray, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, said he is quite proud of the team that looked into Wells Fargos sales abuses.

Clearly our team, along with our partners, has performed a tremendous public service here, Cordray wrote last week to Rep. Jeb Hensarling, R-Texas, chairman of the House Financial Services Committee.

The letter is the latest salvo in an acrimonious battle between Cordray, a Democrat who heads the powerful agency created in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, and Hensarling, who has called for President Trump to fire Cordray and is pushing legislation gutting the bureaus power.

Hensarlings bill, which passed the Republican-controlled House on a party-line vote this month, would strip the bureau of its ability to closely monitor financial firms for compliance with consumer protection laws and eliminate public access to the bureaus database of consumer complaints, among other changes.

The letter was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

In September, Wells Fargo agreed to pay $185 million to settle investigations into its sales practices by the bureau, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer. The bank did not admit any wrongdoing but said its employees had opened millions of checking, savings and credit card accounts that customers never authorized.

The scandal was made public by the Los Angeles Times in December 2013.

Congressional Republicans have charged that the consumer bureau failed to catch Wells Fargos problems until The Times brought it to light and Feuer began an investigation that culminated in a 2015 civil lawsuit.

The only conclusion there is to draw regarding the Wells Fargo scandal is the CFPB was asleep at the wheel, Rep. Ann Wagner, R-Mo., told Codray during a contentious April hearing. The LA Times, the (comptrollers office) and the LA city attorney all got there before you did, Mr. Cordray.

Cordray has testified that the bureau began looking into Wells Fargos practices after receiving whistle-blower tips in mid-2013.

The House Financial Services Committee has been investigating Wells Fargos practices and the performance of regulators in the matter. On June 6, the committee staff issued a report saying the bureau has produced no records indicating it began investigating the matter before Feuer filed his suit.

The report threatened Cordray with contempt of Congress for not providing documents related to the bureaus Wells Fargo investigation that the committee had subpoenaed.

The report said the bureau had turned over just 1,010 pages of records that duplicated those produced by the OCC and Wells Fargo. And the report said it has received no documents corroborating Cordrays statements that the bureau had engaged in supervisory activity regarding Wells Fargos sales practices before Feuer filed suit against the bank in May 2015.

In his letter to Hensarling on Wednesday, Codray said the bureau had provided the committee with more than 57,000 pages of documents in an effort to comply with the committees broadly worded requests.

Cordray said the bureaus supervision of Wells Fargos practices began before it formally contacted the bank about the problems. Cordray said that he and the committee staff seem to have differing interpretations of what is meant by the phrase supervisory activity. 

We did not contact Wells Fargo directly regarding these practices until the spring of 2015, Cordray wrote. But the bureau began internal work on the matter in 2014 and its regional supervisory staff made the decision to schedule an examination of Wells Fargos practices in 2015.

Jeff Emerson, a spokesman for Hensarling, said Monday that the explanation fell short and calls into question whether Director Cordray misled Congress.

The committee cannot complete its Wells Fargo investigation until Director Cordray produces all agency records subpoenaed by the committee, Emerson said. If Director Cordray truly wishes to correct the record, he should stop ignoring his legal obligations. What is he trying to hide?

In the letter, Cordray more broadly defended his agency, noting that it only began operation in July 2011 and its staffing was not up to full speed until 2014. Wells Fargo has said the problem of unauthorized accounts began in 2002.



2017 Los Angeles Times

Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Madison World, Indias leading Indian and diversified Communication group has just announced the launch of its experiential unit  MADISON TURNT. Turnt is a newly coined word that emerged in the US, used by the millennials to describe the feeling when someone is excessively excited or is high on life.

The unit is headed by Sunny Vohra, who joined the agency 7 months ago from Group M and now has a young and dynamic team working across offices in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. The unit will provide 360* integrated plans with strategic and research based insights to effectively bring together brands and their target audience through flawless execution.

The unit focuses on Events, Activations, Exhibitions and Field Marketing and true to its tag line is High on Experience! The Unit is a part of Madison Out-of-Home group.

The Unit has already worked with a large number of prestigious clients likes Vivo, Nissan, Britannia, Michelin, Reebok, Roca, LinkedIn, Marico, LG, Philips, Kohler, JSW, Toyota, Raymond, Renault, Asian Paints, Dabur, CNBC, Godrej, Pidilite, Tata Motors and Croma.

Says Sam Balsara, Chairman & Managing Director, Madison World, I am delighted that under the leadership of Sunny Vohra, Madison Turnt has got off to a great start. More and more clients are discovering the power of experiential marketing, so our timing for the launch of Turnt is most appropriate.

Said Vikram Sakhuja, Group CEO Madison Media & OOH on the new unit, "Experiencing a Brand is one of the most immersive forms of brand engagement. I am excited to be launching Madison Turnt  Our New Age Experience Company which combines the Physical with Digital, Data and Social. Sunny Vohra who leads Turnt is a transformational marketer and in a short time has built some exciting experiences for Brands".

Says Sunny Vohra, Sr. Vice President, Madison OOH, We started a new journey under our new identity TurnT six months back with a young and dynamic team. We are now truly off the block, having created meaningful experiences for a host of brands and we are truly excited about the future. It has been a privilege working under the mentorship of Sam and Vikram as they push the envelope and bring out the best in us as a Unit.
Skybags, a leading backpack brand from the house of V.I.P Industries is known for its high fashion, trendy and youth oriented range of backpacks, rucksacks, strolleys and travel accessories. In an ongoing engagement with its consumers, the brand is back with one of their flagship contest- Canvas Project 3.0. This digitally- driven contest has always rendered a direct connect with the youth by assimilating their artwork and helping the brand align the young thought process with their product line.

For the third edition of the Canvas Project, Skybags has partnered with 22Feet Tribal Worldwide to grow the brands ongoing association with the artistic community in India and resonate with the vibe of their target audience i.e. the youth. Initiated on May 24th 2017, Canvas Project 3.0 isnt just helping the brand engage with the youth but is also helping Skybags bags create new looks for its products.

The format of the contest is simple. The brand and the agency are reaching out to artists and illustrators across India who can transform their vision into the face of the brand's next bag, via the brands social pages and digital marketing. In return, the participants stand a chance to win a high performance desktop, a top-of-the-line action camera and exciting backpacks from the brand's 2017 collection. The winning design will be transformed into an actual bag and be made available on retail.

For the contest, 22feet Tribal Worldwide has created a social-login powered microsite that allows participants to download a design kit and submit their designs on the site. Further, they can invite friends and family to vote for their entries. The brand will pick top entries weekly, a runner-up entry and a winning entry through an elite panel of judges, including Vasant Dewaji, VP- Design and Development, VIP Industries Ltd. and Indian actor Varun Dhawan. This contest is reaching the audience largely through digital- banners, emailers, social and influencer partnerships. To create higher engagement, Skybags is giving away backpacks daily to the interesting designs, chosen based on creativity and popularity (votes).

The contest ends on 25th June 2017.

Commenting on the campaign, Sudip Ghose, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, V.I.P Industries, said, As a young brand we always need a fresh perceptive from the audience. The Canvas project gives an opportunity to people who are creatively inclined, to design their own collection for Skybags. This digital-led campaign helps to connect with the youth, whose perspective compliments the brands ideology. The last two seasons of this campaign were well received by the audience and we look forward to an overwhelming participation this season

As per Parth Mistry, Content Writer, 22feet Tribal Worldwide, We realised this at the very start - with a brand that moves along with the pulse of the youth, co-creating products was really the most optimum way to go. In its third edition, Skybags Canvas Project almost feels like a tradition now, where artists congregate and create something truly unique every year. We're delighted and hope to take this project forward for years to come!

AGENCY CREDIT:

Clients: VIP Industries

Agency: 22feet Tribal Worldwide

Account Management: Shirley D'costa, Keshavi Mehta

Creative Team: Parth Mistry, Kenneth Keymer, Abhimanyu Rathore, Amar Singh Bhagat, Amruta Raut
A father shares a special bond with his child in many ways. For many, a father is a role model  the first real hero. From childhood to adolescence to adulthood, he plays an influential role in the childs life. Over the years he has beautifully taken up the role of a buddy and a caretaker at the same time.

Vodafone recently conducted a social experimentwhich encouraged people to keep their phones aside for some time and actually talk to the person in front of them. The digital campaign #LookUp received an overwhelming response from people across.

Inspired by the success during Valentines Day,Vodafone is encouraging people to #LookUp this Fathers Day too and have real conversations.

The campaign is based on the insight that the real world has come closer through a virtual window, but we have begun living in a virtual world, where we laugh, dream, follow, like and converse through our mobile phones. We are digitally over-connected, and communicate with speed and often use emoticons and emoji instead of words.

This Fathers Day, Vodafone is releasing a video encouraging real conversation with your father and encouraging people to show some love offline.

Siddharth Banerjee, EVP - Marketing, Vodafone India said India is one of the fastest growing Data markets today, and more and more conversations happen online on social media. We rolled-out our social experiment #LookUp to encourage real offline conversations on Valentines day which resonated well. We have extended this for Fathers day to make the day special by allowing users to create memories and have real offline conversations.

Experiencing this social change as a father, Shankar Mahadevan said, "In today's digital day and age, I find that we are more interested in 'what else' is out there rather than what is in front of us, even if it is our own child or parent. I am lucky to have children who spend quality time with me offline!! Vodafone has captured this new digital reality of us - and I too feel that love needs to be showcased offline!"

Celebrating this Fathers Day, Siddharth Mahadevan said, "There is something addictive about being online and unfortunately we tend to forget about the world around us. But I am lucky that we consciously make it a point to spend time with each other offline too !! Happy Father's Day, dad - and to all the great father's reading this!"
We can help you make sense of the agribusiness industry, extending from chemicals and fertilizers used as inputs into agriculture, to the commodities, food and by-products that are an output to farming, with policy and regulation applied at every step of the value chain.
The Emporio Armani Connected Android Wear smartwatch, which was announced earlier this year, will be seeing a formal release around September 14th. This news emerged from the Milan Fashion Week where the device was shown off once again. The companys hybrid smartwatches will also be available on the same date. The hybrid smartwatches will be able to connect with apps on Google Play for fitness tracking as well as having its own app for doing such. Meanwhile the Android Wear model will obviously have support for the Google Play Store since it does run on Android Wear 2.0.

Emporio Armani Connected is a Fossil-made smartwatch, so you can expect more-or-less the same support and hardware as what has been done on other Fossil smartwatches. Theres no price yet for this smartwatch, but itll likely be higher than most other smartwatches. It is running the Snapdragon Wear 2100 processor and has an AMOLED display. Theres no word on the resolution but Fossil has told numerous news outlets that it is high resolution so users will have to wait until its available to see what that actually means. Some of the micro apps being included in the Emporio Armani Connected include the ability to adjust the watchface, including changing the color and such, right there on the watch, instead of needing to do it from the Android Wear app on your smartphone. This is actually true for most of the Fossil smartwatches coming out, including those from Diesel and Michael Kors.

Fossil has released over 100 smartwatches this year (or at least announced over 100, many are not in customers hands just yet), among the many different brands that they create watches for. These are not all Android Wear smartwatches, as some, if not many of them are hybrid watches. This means that it does not have a color display, or a touch screen, its a traditional looking watch with the ability to track fitness and such behind-the-scenes. Theres also no word just yet on where youll be able to purchase the Emporio Armani Connected Android Wear Smartwatch just yet, but itll likely be announced in the very near future.
The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2016) is reportedly receiving a new firmware update introducing the Android security patch for the month of May. The package is currently available for the unlocked variant in Europe bearing the model number SM-J320FN and weighs around 143MB. Its tchangelog mentions stability and performance improvements but doesnt bring any other features, with the device still running Android 5.1.1 Lollipop.

The update is identified with the firmware version J320FNXXU0AQE1 and as expected, its currently distributed over the air (OTA). Eligible Galaxy J3 (2016) owners in Europe can either wait for the update notification to reach their devices or can try to download the update manually from the Software Info submenu within the phones Settings screen. As per the usual case, its recommended to download the software update over a Wi-Fi network in order to avoid slow download speeds and unwanted carrier charges, and the device should have at least 50 percent of battery left before proceeding with the installation.

The Galaxy J3 (2016) had previously received the Android security patch for the month of March, however, the smartphone continues to run Android 5.1.1 Lollipop despite the fact that it was launched in the US via AT&T more than a year ago running Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box. Its important to note that there are key differences between the variant released in Europe and the one introduced in the U.S., specifically in regards to internal hardware. In the United States, the Samsung Galaxy J3 (2016) is powered by an Exynos 3475 chipset housing four ARM Cortex-A7 cores and an ARM Mali-T720 graphics chip, whereas in Europe and other regions the smartphone employs the Spreadtrum SC9830 system-on-chip (SoC) housing the ARM Mali-400 GPU. Whether or not the Samsung Galaxy J3 (2016) in Europe will eventually receive Android Marshmallow remains to be seen, though Samsung is already on its way to releasing the Galaxy J3 (2017) in the following weeks, and the sequel is expected to run Android 7.0 Nougat out of the box. As for the May security update at hand, it should continue to expand and reach other regions and Galaxy J3 (2016) models around the world in the near future.
Slater and Gordon may be having its own troubles , but it has recently notched a major win under its belt and is due for a windfall.The firm has won a $70m conditional settlement for 1,905 detainees at the Manus Island immigration detention centre who were held between 21 November 2012 and 12 May 2016. The victory is being billed as the largest human rights class action settlement in Australian legal history.The firm went up against the Commonwealth of Australia and contract service providers G4S and Broadspectrum, formerly known as Transfield. Wilson Security was separately joined to the proceedings by original corporate defendants.In addition to the primary settlement for the plaintiff, the defendants have agreed to separately cover all the legal fees associated with the class action. Slater and Gordon said that the costs are expected to be more than $20m, including disbursements, such as barrister and expert witness fees. These will be assessed and approved by the court.The people detained on Manus Island have endured extremely hostile conditions, but they will no longer suffer in silence. Most were fleeing religious persecution and violence and came to Australia seeking protection, only to be denied their basic human rights, said Andrew Baker, Slater and Gordon principal lawyer on the matter.While no amount of money could fully recognise the terrible conditions the detainees endured, we hope todays settlement can begin to provide them with an opportunity to help put this dark chapter of their lives behind them, he added.Baker said that this was one of the most complicated class action suits the firm has overseen.By sheer numbers, this is one of the largest class actions Slater and Gordon has ever run. We have appeared in court more than 50 times, conducted more than 200 witness interviews and analysed more than 200,000 discovered documents. We dealt with 11 judgments resulting from 28 applications to the court, ranging from public interest immunity challenges, discovery orders and then class closure and common issues applications were thrown at us in the weeks leading up to the trial date, Baker said.The firm is grateful to the more than 70 witnesses that gave evidence, said Baker. The group included doctors, health workers, security workers, social workers, and the detainees.Reliving their experiences to provide evidence was incredibly traumatic, but crucial to this case, and we would like to pay tribute to the courage and strength of the Manus Island detainees. This was a long battle for social justice, but we hope that todays result, and the three years of work preceding it, helps to ensure the voices of the Manus Island detainees have finally been heard, said Baker.The scheme to distribute the settlement will be finalised in the coming weeks and submitted to the Supreme Court of Victoria for approval.
Talks which aim to lead to an amicable withdrawal of the UK from the European Union have begun this week and major law firms are among those keen to see a good agreement. Baker McKenzie s global chair Paul Rawlinson says that, as an employer, the firm is very concerned to ensure that the rights of EU nationals living in the UK are protected.He says that the general election which weakened the British governments hand in the talks are likely to lead to a softer Brexit than may have otherwise been the case.One possibility that can not be ruled out is that the UK will remain in the Customs Union or, although less likely, that UK joins the EEA, Mr Rawlinson said. It is clear that the election result puts the negotiators from the EU 27 side in a stronger position.The law firms own research shows that over half of skilled workers employed in the FTSE 250 companies are likely to leave the UK before Brexit negotiations are completed.Wei Tu, the Chinese associated firm of Stephenson Harwood, has hired three new partners and promoted a fourth, expanding its Guangzhou-based practice.Joining from Wang Jing & Co are Xiangman Shen, an PRC litigation and arbitration expert specialising in shipping, general corporate and commercial matters; and Kehua Zhang, whose practice includes advising clients on a broad range of issues involving foreign direct investment, cross-border M&A and international trade.Meanwhile, dispute resolution specialist Henry Zhu joins from Rolmax; and existing Wei Tu corporate lawyer Zoe Zhou is promoted to partner.An over-supply of law graduates in Singapore has been a concern for some time and many trainees are having to forego compensation in order to gain experience.The Business Times reports that law firms in the city state are willing to take on graduates so that they can achieve the 6-months of training required prior to being called to the Bar.The issue often faces graduates who read law overseas before returning to Singapore looking for a placement."There has been an influx of law graduates in the past few years and not enough training places to absorb them all," Stefanie Yuen Thio, joint managing director of TSMP Law Corporation told The Business Times. "Firms that previously did not take in trainees have started doing so, partly to do their bit for law graduates who cannot otherwise get contracts."
The Law Council of Australia has launched an official framework to evaluate the merits of legislation, policy, and practice that ensures the countrys legal profession acts consistently with international human rights law.In the  Policy Statement on Human Rights and the Legal Profession , the nations top organisation for lawyers laid out core principles and commitments to human rights on behalf of Australias legal profession.Australia has a proud history in the human rights sphere. We played a prominent role in drafting the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and have since been an active participant in the development of an international system for the protection and promotion of human rights, said Fiona McLeod SC, Law Council president. The Law Council endorses a central and constructive role for Australia in the international human rights system. This year, as Australia seeks a seat on the UN Human Rights Council, it is important to assert and articulate the legal professions principles and commitments on human rights.The Law Council supports an approach, consistent with international law and practice, which confirms that all human rights are universal, indivisible, and interdependent and interrelated. We believe this makes it vital to consider legislation and government action through a human rights lens. The principles in this framework guide myriad aspects of the Law Councils work in the policy space  from asylum seekers to marriage equality to metadata, McLeod said.The policy statement calls for a federal charter or bill of rights, as well as for more state and territory charter of rights. Currently, Victoria and the ACT are the only states that have a charter on human rights.The Law Council has also committed to promoting respect of human rights by Australian corporations and other incorporated and unincorporated organisations. It also committed to implementing the UNs Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
SUV

FWD

4WD

Besides, the Germans had their own similarly priced cars, and the general consensus was that they were better, so there was no need to go looking for alternatives from their neighbors to the southwest. When Renault bought Romanian brand Dacia, all that went down the drain.Europe did not have a truly accessible car with a decent build quality for a while, and that was because none of the major manufacturers thought they could make it work. But with some clever cost cutting and the more affordable workforce at the Mioveni plant in Romania (not to mention the one in Marrakech, in northern Africa), Renault finally pulled it off.And Europe could not get enough of it. James May is probably the most high-profile fan of the brand, but he's definitely not alone. And after the Logan sedan and Sandero Hatchback, Dacia went one step further with the DusterWith a starting price of around 11,000 (approximately $12,000), buyers got a roomy, robust, no-nonsense off-roader (for the base versions), with a surprisingly pleasant design and very good rough-terrain abilities (when equipped with asystem).Seven years on, the Duster is now up for a replacement, and we've got the testing car on camera as it drives down some winding roads in Spain. Dacia appears to play the conservative card and change as little as possible about the SUV, while making sure there's plenty of novelty to separate it from the current model.The test vehicle has plenty of added cladding over its doors and hood, but we'd be surprised if there were any major changes. Cost efficiency is best achieved in the manufacturing process, so changing as little as possible on the assembly line is what keeps the Duster's price down.The facelift the SUV got back in 2014 saw minor changes to the headlights, taillights, and roof bars. The second generation should operate slightly more comprehensive changes, but we think they'll be restricted to details such as the grille and the bumpers, leaving the body panels largely untouched.The interior should also receive an update, but simplicity must remain the word of the day. Even so, Dacia offers a very decent infotainment system with sat-nav option for peanuts money, which is actually the leitmotif of its entire range.Dacia hasn't said when it plans to launch the Duster, other that sales will begin in early 2018, so that only leaves the Frankfurt Motor Show in September as the most likely unveiling venue. Some voices claimed it would happen in Paris three days from now, but we find it hard to believe. Since Dacia doesn't have anything else important planned for Frankfurt, showing the Duster there to a much greater audience would make a lot more sense. If we're wrong, we'll find out on Thursday.
SUV

Or maybe the 300 horsepower the performanceis expected to have could provide the answer. SEAT cars always pretended to be sportier than they really were, but with the Ateca Cupra (and the rest of the Cupra models), they finally have the brawn to match the looks.The Cupra version of SEAT's first ever SUV brings relatively minor changes to its standard iteration, with most of the visible ones concentrating at the front and the back of the vehicle. It gets a new front bumper with larger air intakes (they've essentially removed the fog lamps), and a quad exhaust at the back which successfully makes the vehicle's rear symmetrical.There's no telling whether SEAT will keep this mostly subdued appearance of its performance SUV or is keeping it a secret for a while longer, but if this is it, some people might find it a bit disappointing.Especially since the car obviously has no problems going fast. In fact, given the tall seating position and high profile of the vehicle, we suspect a lot of its drivers will reach their comfort limits first before exploring everything the Ateca Cupra has to offer.The video shows very stiff suspensions which, despite the relatively high ground clearance, keep body roll to a minimum and ensure there's always plenty of contact with the asphalt. That means ride comfort will have to be somewhat sacrificed, but we've come to expect that from go-fast vehicles, even if they're based on SUVs.SEAT's sporty SUV will use a two-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with a seven-speed double clutch transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. Performance figures quote a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of five seconds, which is nothing short of fantastic for a car this size. It's actually quicker than the recently released Honda Civic Type-R.The Spanish brand of Volkswagen AG is attempting a resurgence after dipping in popularity over the past years, and it seems well aware there's nothing better than a high-speed vehicle to take care of that. SEAT went even one step further and mixed in one of the most lucrative segments, that of the compact-sized SUVs. If that's not a recipe for success, then we don't know what is.The 2018 SEAT Ateca Cupra should have its official launch later this year, and since the Frankfurt Motor Show is the only major European event left, that's a possibility. However, with a starting price of 40,000, the only thing standing in the way of Ateca Cupra's success is SEAT's brand image - because you can't find anything with remotely similar performance in that price range that's also an SUV.
The only people who might actually hate these two are cab drivers, but apart from that, most people either love them (for freeing them from the necessity to interact with said cab drivers) or are largely indifferent to their existence.However, regardless of how you feel about ride-hailing services, there is one moment when they come in handy: when you've had way too much to drink and find yourself far away from home to leave on foot.Or at least that's what Painesville Municipal Court Judge Michael A. Cicconetti believes, a man who has already built a name for himself because of the creative sentences he gives. This one, though, seems pretty straightforward.And Judge Cicconetti agrees: Its not one of those unusual sentences. Theres nothing crazy about it, he said, quoted by The News Herald . Its just common sense. Now that we have the technology and most people have the ability to do that, why not make it part of their sentence?"The idea sparked when he had a friend of his in the defendant's stall who admitted to not using Uber because he didn't know how. Cicconetti told him to come to probation the next day and somebody would show him the necessary steps. He then thought to himself: "Why not do that for everybody?"So besides the usual sentence - three days in jail or successfully completing a driver's prevention program costing $328 plus probation for six months and the suspension of the driver's license for all non-occupational activities - Cicconetti is now forcing drunk drivers to install Uber or Lyft on their smartphones. But the judge is nobody's fool: he also makes them provide the details to a credit card.And just in case you're not convinced the Ohio robe man is up to date with technology, here's something else he said: "In the next 20 years, theyll have self-driving cars anyway, so we wont have to worry about it.
DCT

AWD

Local media suggests July 20 is the date the veils will be taken off, which is almost a month away. Speaking to South Korean publication The Investor , the automakers Lee Hyong-keun made it clear that there will be a one-month difference between the unveilings of the Kona and the Stonic.Regardless of timing, theres no denying the subcompact crossover will go on sale in its domestic market by the end of the year. Europe is another area where Kia has high hopes for its smallest utility vehicle. For the U.S., the automaker is keeping its lips shut on the subject of availability. Bearing in mind the Kona is confirmed to arrive in the United States, its likely that Kia can make a business case for the Stonic as well.With exterior design elements inspired from Kias all-new Rio , the Stonic isnt as crazy on the outside as its Hyundai-branded counterpart. A rival for the likes of the Nissan Juke and Mazda CX-3, the B-segment crossover will be offered with a range of punchy three- and four-cylinder engines.For the North American market, the Stonic is almost certain to boast a free-breathing 2.0-liter (147 hp; 132 lb-ft) as the base engine, as well as a turbocharged 1.6-liter with 175 horsepower and 196 pound-feet of torque.As far as transmissions are concerned, expect anything from a six-speed manual ( 1.0 T-GDI ) to a six-speed automatic (2.0 MPI) and a seven-speed(1.6 T-GDI). In Europe, a 1.6-liter turbo diesel will also make the cut. Depending on specification, the Stonic can also be had withAfter its unveiling, look forward to the 2018 Kia Stonic showing up at the Frankfurt Motor Show and L.A. Auto Show for its first public outings.
Of course, there will always be exceptions, people who aren't afraid to face the heavy steering of the Diablo, or it less-than-predictable behavior.And we're here to talk about a guy who fully deserves such a label, with the man having recently hooned the hell out of his V12 Sant'Agata Bolognese machine during a performance event held in Europe.The driver acted as if the V12 monster around him was a drift car, using the wet pavement to try and drift the hell out of the Diablo. Fortunately, the whole adventure was caught on camera. And, since we even get to see the way in which the man interacts with the steering wheel, this episode can serve as more than just YouTube-flavored popcorn topping.To be more precise, there are a few driving lessons to be learned by watching this poster car sideways episode, even with all the spinning involved in the process. And this is why we're inviting you to pay close attention to the tire-abusing moves of the supercar.And, to give you a taste of just how difficult it can be to tame a Lamborghini Diablo even when you're not trying to put the thing to slip angle work, we've added a second clip below. This brings a Motor Week test involving an incarnation of the Italian devil, so it should deliver your weekly dose of 90s stunts.P.S.: The Bimmer we mentioned in the intro needs 5.4 seconds to hit 62 mph.
In a letter to Central government employees, NJCA general secretary Shiv Gopal Mishra informed them about his meeting with Cabinet Secretary on June 15.

By India Today Web Desk: The Narendra Modi-led Cabinet is likely to decide on revised allowances for Central government allowances this week.

The Union cabinet skipped the issue of revised allowances in the previous two meetings but is expected to take it up this week before Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicks off his Portugal-US-Netherlands trip this weekend.

Reports hint that the House Rent Allowance (HRA) for Central government employees is likely to be fixed at 27 per cent, 18 per cent and 9 per cent for X, Y and Z cities respectively under the Seventh Pay Commission.

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The general secretary of National Joint Council of Action (NJCA)--NJCA is holding talks with the government on behalf of employees--recently met Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha and raised the issue of delay in allowances with him.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED AT THE MEETING WITH CABINET SECRETARY AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTS: In a letter to Central government employees, NJCA general secretary Shiv Gopal Mishra informed them about his meeting with Cabinet Secretary on June 15. The NJCA official expressed "anguish regarding non-settlement of demands of Central government employees, particularly non-approval of the allowances by the Cabinet". NJCA general secretary said that he was assured by the Cabinet Secretary that "things are in the process and most probably would be placed in the next Cabinet meeting". The Union Cabinet meets every Wednesday but this time June 21 (a Wednesday) is being celebrated as Yoga Day. The NJCA general secretary said that he was given assurance by the Cabinet Secretary that the decision on allowances would be taken up at the meeting which could happen a day or two later. "We hope that the matter of allowances would be settled within this month," said Shiv Gopal Mishra. "We have come to know from reliable sources that the Committee on National Pension System (NPS) has also submitted its report and some serious discussion is on for its implementation," NJCA general secretary said. Earlier, some reports had suggested that the Narendra Modi government could start rolling out revised allowances from July, more than a year after the Union cabinet had okayed the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission in June last year. The Seventh Pay Commission recommended axing 53 of the 196 allowances for Central government employees besides merging 36 smaller allowances into bigger ones. It also suggested bringing down the HRA rates for by varying degrees depending on the type of city. The Ashok Lavasa Committee on Allowances, which was tasked with reviewing the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission, submitted its report to Arun Jaitley on April 27. The Lavasa report was sent to the Department of Expenditure for a first round of review and then placed before the Empowered Committee of Secretaries (E-CoS) for another round of screening. After screening the Ashok Lavasa report on allowances, the Empowered Committee of Secretaries (E-CoS) forwarded the report along with its suggestions to the government following a June 1 meeting.

ALSO READ:

7th Pay Commission: Delay in allowances may force government employee forum to call a strike

7th Pay Commission: No hike in transport allowance, HRA to remain at 30 per cent

7th Pay Commission: Cabinet approves modifications in panel's recommendations

ALSO WATCH: 7th Pay Commission: Allowance-revision to benefit over 50 lakh employees

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The Paris Air Show starts Monday and aviation pundits have counted 16 aircraft making their debut at the big show, including the Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet. The single-engine personal jet was certified last November and made its first European appearance in May at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE). The only other aircraft connected to GA are the military conversion of the Air Tractor 802 into L-3s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) Longsword and Diamonds Dart 450 turboprop military trainer. As always, Boeing and Airbus will duke it out for orders and attention by bringing their latest hardware.

Boeing is bringing the 787-10 and will increase media attention by giving details about the next model in the pipeline, logically expected to be designated the 797. Airbus is flying the A350-1000 and has also upgraded the A380 to improve fuel efficiency (winglets) and increase takeoff weight to a staggering 1.27 million pounds. Lockheed has reportedly booked $37 billion in orders for the F-35 and is shopping for customers for the civilian version of its J model C-130. Other new aircraft include the AN-132D, Airbus A321neo, Airbus Helicopters H160 and VSR700, Boeing 737-9 MAX, Embraer E195-E2 and KC-390, Kawasaki P-1, Mitsubishi MRJ90 and Turkish Aerospace Industries Hurkus.
When I was shooting todays video in the Airborne Museum at St. Mere Eglise earlier this month, I was impressed that the museum has on display an example of every little thing the paratroopers carried. And I mean everything, including a box of Smith Brothers Cough Drops.

Seeing that unleashed a flood of nostalgia. Those cough drops enjoyed prosecutorial immunity from the nuns edict against chewing gum and eating candy in class. I can still taste that tart licorice flavor. Writ small in cardboard, it also reminded me yet again that World War II was geopolitics and strategy, but it was also a contest of industrial production. Either someone in the War Department put cough drops on the infinite list of requirements, or an enterprising Smith Brothers executive insisted that the boys would need them. They probably sent a ship load.

Through the gauzy lens of history, Americans tend to view war production romantically; Rosie the Riveter stepped up and created an industrial miracle. In the aggregate, thats true; in the granular, it was sometimes messyreally messy. When I was prepping for my glider shoot, I referenced Michael Manions thesis Gliders of World War II: The Bastards No One Wanted and Flint Whitlocks If Chaos Reigns: The Near Disaster and Ultimate Triumph of the Allied Airborne Forces on D-Day,June 6th, 1944.

If the titles strike you as baleful, theres good reason for it, for the entire airborne operation, although carefully planned, devolved into such chaos during its execution that only determination, discipline and training saved it from disaster. But as Whitlock reveals, even two years ahead of the invasion, the effort to build gliders was a comedy of missteps, errors and incompetence that have been largely forgotten in the hagiography of the Arsenal of Democracy.

The U.S. came late to the airborne and glider idea, so late in fact that by the time the Americans decided they needed gliders, Germany was already phasing both paratroopers and gliders out of its doctrine. It had had several successes with gliders and vertical envelopment, but the German high commandand Hitlerdecided that surprise no longer favored airborne units and the casualties didnt justify the gains. The Germans evolved to the air landed concept thats favored today.

Nonetheless, despite no developed doctrine or specific plans, the U.S. forged ahead building gliders. A lot of gliders. As Whitlock writes, the Army faced an almost insurmountable challenge in finding enough companies to build these machines. Waco fairly quickly devised what became the standard U.S. glider design, the CG4A. Producing it in volume proved another matter.

The major airframe companiesBoeing, Lockheed, Grumman, North Americanwere up their Cleco bins in war work and had no surplus capacity. Desperate to get the CG4A built, the Army eventually enlisted 16 companies to build the airplane. Although it eventually got its gliders, it also revealed a truth that, despite the application of experience and digital technology, remains a truth today: Serial production of anything defies easy solutions, but it always seems far more difficult when airplanes are involved.

According to Whitlock, having designed the airplane, Waco should have been in a good position to build it. It was an experienced airplane company, but Waco, like so many companies, couldnt ramp up fast enough and was continually bogged down by design change requests from the government and technical envoys from the other companies trying to figure out the CG4A. Of 13,903 CG4As built, Waco produced about 1000. Not surprisingly, Ford built the most4190at a unit cost of about $15,000.

Well, that made sense. They were car guys and who knows mass production better than car guys? Ford had its share of airplane experience, too, with the Tri-Motor and a couple of minor models. Ford made gliders at its Kingsford, Michigan, plant which, before the war, built woodie station wagons. They obviously had the skill base. Other aircraft companies pitched in, including Cessna (750), General Aircraft Corp. (1112) and even the Gibson Refrigerator Co., which churned out 1078.

In the 1940s, the aircraft industry was still composed of many small manufacturing companies most of us have never heard of. And here, the government ran into trouble or, more accurately, the companies themselves did. The poster child for mismanagement and incompetence was the National Aircraft Company of Elwood, Indiana. Despite the name, had no experience at all building airplanes. In awarding a CG4A contract to National, the Army Materiel Command hoped they would figure it out.

They didnt. Whitlock writes that the Armys experience with National was more like a Marx Brothers comedy than an aircraft contract. With an order for 90 aircraft, National appeared to be building in a barn and suffered from lack of skill and poor management. Its shop was too small to accommodate the CG4A wingspan, so it knocked out the walls and put up lean tos. A revolt by workers stopped production, such as it was. By the time a frustrated Army contract officer cancelled the contract, National had produced one glider at a unit cost of $1.74 million in 1943 dollars. Thats about $25 million in todays dollars, vividly illustrating that cost overruns and shoddy quality are nothing new in airplane building.

A St. Louis company called Robertson Aircraft Corp. paid for its incompetence in blood. Although the company actually had engaged in aircraft services and training before the war, like National, it was hampered by mismanagement. That didnt stop a government desperate for gliders from awarding it an order for 170 CG4As. On a hot August day in 1943, one of Robertsons gliders was being demonstrated as part of a bond drive when it broke up over Lambert Field. Aboard were the mayor, several city officials and the company president. All were killed when a wing departed the airframe. Left unknown is whether any of the occupants were aware of the Armys concerns about quality control at Robertson. The cause was later revealed to be a mis-machined strut fitting that hadnt been properly inspected because no one knew it needed to be.

Although the better of the 16 companies involved in glider production eventually delivered, the Army found delays and quality issues throughout the program. Unit cost varied widely, with Ford the only company hitting the target numbers. A Florida company, Babcock Aircraft, built 60 gliders at a unit cost of $51,000, according to Whitlock. North American was building Mustangs for only a little more, at $58,000. Such was the headlong rush into material production for the coming invasion of Europe that the government had little choice but to continue with most of the companies it had engaged.

Ironically, the gliders came very close to not being used at all, at least in Normandy. As late as May of 1944, Eisenhowers air officer, Air Chief Marshal Trayford Leigh-Mallory, argued with Gen. Omar Bradley about the need for an airborne operation at all. Leigh-Mallory believed the two American divisions stood a good chance of being wiped out. Neither man knew that the Germans had already come to the same conclusion in their own use of airborne forces. Bradley believed the landings on Utah Beach wouldnt be successful without an airborne component. Eisenhower overruled Leigh-Mallory, assuring the storied history of both divisions.

Further irony: American planners vastly overestimated the number of gliders that would be needed, much less used. Adding up all the glider operations in Europe, I cant come up with a total that reaches even 6000 CG4As used in combat. That means less than half were used. The rest were sold for scrap for as little as $50. The crates the gliders were shipped infive in allhad 10,000 board feet of select lumber. That was much in demand for the post-war housing boom. A few of the gliders were converted to campers, but the vast majority, like so much of the staggering volume of material produced during the war, were simply scrapped.

I wonder if all those cough drops suffered a similar fate.
Good morning, and greetings from the "other" Washington, where I am speaking at a conference later this week. I hope you all had a great weekend.

My latest Harder Line column looks at the collection of contradictory energy policies out of the Trump administration  and why it matters. Then I'll hand things back to Ben to get you up to speed on everything else.

Questions, comments, or tips? You can always reach us at [email protected] and [email protected]
Russia's defense ministry said Monday that it will treat U.S.-led coalition planes west of the Euphrates in Syria as targets after the U.S. downed a Syrian jet over the weekend, bringing an end to the agreement between the U.S. and Moscow, reports FT.

The no-fly zone demanded by Russia: Key cities like Aleppo and Damascus would be out of bounds for coalition aircraft. Most Kurdish and ISIS territory would not. (Go deeper with this map by Axios' Lazaro Gamio.)

Why it matters: The incident is the first time the U.S.-led coalition has shot down a Syrian plane since the beginning of the country's civil war six years ago. Moscow denounced the action as a violation of international law and has reportedly suspended its incident-prevention hotline with the U.S. in Syria in retaliation, per AFP.
Jeff Holmstead, a former top EPA official under President George W. Bush, is expected to be appointed as the No. 2 official at the EPA, according to two sources familiar with the decision-making process.

Holmstead, now a partner at law and lobbying firm Bracewell, is the last man standing for the deputy administrator post. EPA chief Scott Pruitt has met with him and likes him, and the White House recommended him so he's an easy pass from that end. No final decision has been made, but there is no other serious contender for the job at this moment. Other contenders, including coal lobbyist Andrew Wheeler, have been cast aside, according to a source with direct knowledge.Why it matters: If Holmstead is nominated, it would represent a moderating tilt inside the agency's leadership. Holmstead is a veteran Washington insider and considered a more moderate official compared to many elected Republicans today, and compared to some top advisers in EPA now. The EPA had no comment, and an email to Holmstead seeking comment late Sunday wasn't immediately returned. An automatic reply indicated he's out of the office until June 25.The other side: A source in the conservative environmental movement tells Axios that Holmstead's nomination could provoke open opposition from conservative groups. During the Bush administration, he pursued regulatory reforms some in conservative circles thought weren't big enough and since leaving he's worked on issues that run counter to certain issues important to right-leaning advocacy groups on climate change and ethanol. Two more things to know:Until recently, Mr. Holmstead was a registered lobbyist on EPA and Energy Department issues, and his firm Bracewell lobbies for oil refineries urging EPA to change the types of companies that must comply with a federal ethanol mandate. Holmstead has said EPA shouldn't review a scientific finding the Obama EPA issued in 2009 that concluded carbon emissions endanger public health, arguing it wouldn't stand up in court. That finding is the legal underpinning of the Obama-era carbon regulations Pruitt is now working to undo. This will be one of the arguments put forth by conservative groups should Holmstead get the nod.
Before President Trump took office, tech CEOs made a pilgrimage to Trump Tower for a high-profile meeting despite their significant political differences.

Today, they're meeting with Trump again  despite the persistent divide between tech and the White House over issues like immigration and climate change.

Why it matters: Silicon Valley's relationship with Trump is complicated. The industry's employees aren't usually happy when their CEOs engage with the president. But a combination of policy realities (tech would love a good deal on tax reform, for example) and a fear of being out of the loop on other discussions (such as modernizing federal IT systems) keeps executives coming back to the table. Tech giants also know a powerful White House contingent has concerns about Silicon Valley's increasing wealth and control over consumers' data, so they need to maintain a dialogue.

What the White House says it wants: "This day is going to show that we have a lot of people who really want to see the government succeed and really want to work with it," a senior White House official told reporters, arguing that the meetings weren't about photo-ops. But, of course, there's also value for the White House in having the president meet with major, recognizable figures from the industry that is a major U.S. economic engine.

The rundown:

The executives' meeting with Trump is organized by the Office of American Innovation led by Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law. The execs will join several working group sessions, according to senior White House officials, dealing with a variety of issues related to modernizing government technology. Vice President Mike Pence will also be present, among others, as will Ivanka Trump.

There's a session on high-skilled immigration, a major policy priority for tech companies who rely on the H-1B program for workers  the same program Trump wants to overhaul to protect American jobs.

A group of tech leaders will also join a series of meetings on Thursday focused on emerging tech like drones and the Internet of Things, bookending what the White House has dubbed "technology week." That's organized by a different office in the White House currently run by Peter Thiel ally Michael Kratsios. Trump will also talk about tech issues during a trip to Iowa on Wednesday.

Elephants in the room:

The administration's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accords, which drew significant condemnation from tech companies. A senior White House official brushed off the idea that the move had lessened interest among executives in attending  saying "we had virtually no fallback from the Paris thing." Officials say that there were more people interested in coming than the White House was able to include in the meeting.

Tech, where many major companies are founded or led by immigrants, has concerns about Trump's stance on immigration. One question posed in a briefing document for attendees of the session on the program is, "How can the H-1B visa program be modified to ensure that visas are issued to the highest-skilled and highest-paid workers, while also eliminating examples of the program's abuse?"

What to watch: Where the relationship between Silicon Valley and the Trump administration goes from here. Expect executive to bring up issues that matter to their companies. A source said, for example, that Apple will focus on veterans affairs, cybersecurity and encryption and human rights (CEO Tim Cook is attending working group sessions on immigration and "citizen services," Apple confirms). The company has decried the Trump travel ban for several majority-Muslim countries and on the administration decision to pull back Obama-era guidance protecting transgender students.

Chris Liddell, the White House's director of strategic initiatives, says the White House hopes to keep the companies involved in these discussions as they move forward.

"Largely we see them working in an advisory capacity, and again, depending on the [working group] stream and their level of interest we will have them more or less engaged," Liddell told reporters. "But obviously at the end of the day we have to do the work, so this would be just helping us with ideas."

Liddell is also keen to establish an exchange program of sorts, where industry talent agrees to stints in government positions to work on complex tech issues, such as cybersecurity, sources say.

Who's going:

Apple CEO Tim Cook

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos

Alphabet Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella

Kleiner Perkins Chairman John Doerr

Founders Fund Partner (and Trump ally) Peter Thiel

Palantir CEO Alex Karp

IBM CEO Ginni Rometty

Intel CEO Brian Krzanich

Oracle Co-CEO Safra Catz

Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen

Qualcomm CEO Steven Mollenkopf

OpenGov CEO Zachary Bookman

VMware CEO Pat Gelsinger

Akamai CEO Tom Leighton

SAP CEO Bill McDermott

Accenture Chief Executive for North America Julie Sweet

MasterCard CEO Ajay Banga

Who's not: A glaring absence from the list is Facebook. Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg attended the Trump Tower meeting and CEO Mark Zuckerberg was reportedly on a White House conference call earlier this year.

Update: A Facebook spokesperson said that the company received an invite but had told the White House of prior scheduling conflicts for Monday.

Editor's Note: This article has been updated to correct Julie Sweet's title at Accenture.
This map shows the fading fortunes of the Islamic State as it has been beaten back on multiple fronts over the past two years. It's based on data collected by analysts at IHS Markit Conflict Monitor, a service that gathers open-source intelligence on the fighting in Syria and Iraq.

The big picture: The Islamic State is losing ground fast, and a final showdown appears to be on the horizon in Syria's Deir al-Zour region, where analysts at IHS Markit have noted a significant uptick in fighting. Axios' Shannon Vavra has more on that upcoming showdown here.

Mosul: The Islamic State made headlines around the world after capturing Mosul  Iraq's second largest city  in June 2014. Since then, though, it has been beaten back into the city's historic center and seen its numbers dwindle after a months-long offensive. The Department of Defense tells Axios that 96 percent of the city has been reclaimed.

Raqqa: Once considered the capital of the self-proclaimed caliphate, this city is under siege by U.S.-backed forces. However, Human rights groups have raised alarms about the effects of heavy coalition bombing.

Deir al-Zour: With Mosul and Raqqa on the verge of falling, the Islamic State's leaders have withdrawn into this Syrian border region, where they could very likely make their last stand.
As tech royalty converges on the White House today for an American Technology Council meeting, the darlings of Silicon Valley are in danger of becoming the devils of Trumpism's nationalist wing.

This won't happen overnight, but danger signs are everywhere.

Axios Tech Editor Kim Hart wrote last week that the giants, with their "enormous concentrations of wealth and data," are "drawing the attention of economists and academics who warn they're growing too powerful."

Turns out it's government, too.

The Bannon wing of the White House would like to take on the lords of the Valley now over outsourcing, the concentration of wealth and their control over our data and lives. But this fight is on hold for a later date, officials tell us.

The bigger problem for tech is that many Americans are rethinking their romantic views of the hottest and biggest companies of the new economy. As people look for villains to blame, tech might get its turn:

Some shine has come off Facebook (though not in user data, Dan Primack points out: People still love the service), as executives fend off grievances about fake news, live violence and the filter bubble.

(though not in user data, Dan Primack points out: People still love the service), as executives fend off grievances about fake news, live violence and the filter bubble. Silicon Valley makes itself a juicy target with its male dominance, concentration of wealth (in both people and places), and reliance on foreign workers.

makes itself a juicy target with its male dominance, concentration of wealth (in both people and places), and reliance on foreign workers. Robots will soon be eating lots of jobs, with working-class, blue collar workers  an engine of the Trump coalition  at the most immediate risk. Many think this will be the story of the next 10 years.

be eating lots of jobs, with working-class, blue collar workers  an engine of the Trump coalition  at the most immediate risk. Many think this will be the story of the next 10 years. Anyone familiar with military intelligence will tell you cyber-risk is much greater than most people realize. Russians used cyber tools to try to throw the 2016, and electronic attack is perhaps the greatest U.S vulnerability to an international power.

People increasingly distrust technology, and the companies will increasingly be in the crosshairs. Richard Edelman  president and CEO of the global communications firm  wrote in introducing Edelman's 2017 Trust Barometer: "[O]ngoing globalization and technological change are now further weakening people's trust in global institutions, which they believe have failed to protect them from the negative effects of these forces.Be smart: Tech executives are very aware of the public's unsettled mood and fearful that if they completely disengage with Trump the White House will turn on their companies. That's why many are here today!Dive deeper: "What Apple's Tim Cook will tell Trump" (CEOs come with their own agendas: He'll raise topics the White House hadn't planned)

Off embargo at 6 a.m.: "Silicon Valley's elite comes to Trump's Washington."
19 June 2017 12:22 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

Turkey is creating a free trade zone with Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan, said Nihat Zeybekci, the Turkish Economy Minister.

Zeybekci, talking to the Milliyet newspaper, said that the necessary infrastructure has already been created in this regard.

Representatives of the Turkish Ministry of Economy are already stationed in Nakhchivan," he added. Trade with Nakhchivan will not differ from trade with Turkish cities. The operations will be implemented in the Turkish lira.

Recently the two sides reached an agreement which envisages Turkeys support to importing from Nakhchivan.

The agreement was discussed at a meeting of Economy Minister Shahin Mustafayev with the Turkish delegation.

The Turkish side expressed a will to support the expansion of exports of Nakhchivans products to Turkey, noted systematic work with entrepreneurs and relevant authorities in this direction and informed of the interest of Turkish entrepreneurs in investing in Nakhchivan.

Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, which is a landlocked exclave of Azerbaijan borders with three countries including Turkey, Iran and Armenia.

Today, Nakhchivan retains its autonomy as the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic and is internationally recognized as a constituent part of Azerbaijan governed by its own elected legislative assembly.

The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Turkey increased by 88 percent in the first four months of 2017, as compared to the same period of the previous year, In particular, the exports increased four times and imports - by 18 percent.

Trade turnover between the two amounted to almost $553 million in the first quarter of 2017, $308.7 million of which was exported to this country, according to Azerbaijans State Customs Committee.

Turkey was the first state to recognize Azerbaijan's independence in 1991 and has been a staunch supporter of Azerbaijan in its efforts to consolidate its independence, preserve its territorial integrity and realize its economic potential arising from the rich natural resources of the Caspian Sea.

The contractual base of bilateral Turkish-Azerbaijani trade and economic relations includes more than 40 documents aimed at expanding economic cooperation between states.

--

Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli



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19 June 2017 13:31 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

Legal issues that may arise in Free Trade Zone (FTZ), being created in Azerbaijan should be concentrated in Azerbaijan's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expert-economist Farhad Amirbayov told Trend.

Creation of an independent arbitration system on the territory of the FTZ can lead to undesirable problems within the framework of a unified national legal system, according to him.

"If we follow the path of fragmentation and create our own unique forms for each economic zone, this can lead to the destruction of a single legal space. Legal issues may arise not only between the residents of the FTZ, but also with the residents operating in the legal field of Azerbaijan. There may be a certain misunderstanding and conflicts, so I propose to concentrate the powers and legal issues in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which has an arbitration court and all the mechanics, allowing conflict-free pre-hearing discovery. I think if foreign corporations want to enter the Azerbaijani market, they should become members of the Chamber, Amirbayov said.

Earlier, the Arab company DP World (Dubai Port World - one of the world's largest port operators), providing consulting services for the establishment of FTZ in Azerbaijan, proposed the creation of an independent arbitration system in the FTZ that will be able to focus not only on the Azerbaijani law, but also on international law.

"Creation of the FTZ is another step towards an even greater globalization of the Azerbaijani economy and its transformation from a hydrocarbon resource supplier to something more significant. I think that the provision of logistics services and the movement of transit cargo should be complemented in parallel with the development of our own industry. As operators and agents of this zone, I see large holdings and corporations. In general, the establishment of the FTZ is a good tool for attracting large corporations," the expert stated.

President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on March 17, 2016, on measures to create a free trade zone type special economic area covering the territory of the Baku International Sea Trade Port in the Alat township of Bakus Garadagh District.

The free trade zone is expected to bring up to $1 billion just in the first few years. Special tax and customs policy, which will be pursued in the territory of the free trade zone will also stipulate further development and simplification of a number of procedures.

FTZ will be located within the grounds of the new port, covering an area of 100 hectares. Since the new port is being built at the major railway juncture connecting the North-South and the East-West railway lines in Azerbaijan, FTZ will also have rail access. Serving as a multimodal transit logistics hub, the new port and FTZ will become a major consolidation and distribution centre in Central Eurasia that provides a wide range of value added services.

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Amanatullah Khan had called Kumar Vishwas 'a BJP agent' and accused him of working against the interest of the AAP.

By Sweta dutta, Mail Today Bureau: Amidst simmering differences between senior leader Kumar Vishwas and a dominant pro-Arvind Kejriwal faction, suspended Okhla MLA Amanatullah Khan told Mail Today that he is in the process of compiling documents against Vishwas that he will place before a disciplinary committee within ten days.

Early last month when Khan was suspended following the decision of the Political Affairs Committee, a three-member committee was set up to look into the veracity of allegations levelled by Khan against Vishwas. Khan had called Vishwas 'a BJP agent' and accused him of working against the interest of the party. "I had asked the committee for a little more time to get documents in place. I am working on it and within 10 days I will give them whatever I am compiling. Kumar Vishwas' truth is out in the open before everyone. Not that there is much to prove but I will place whatever I have before the committee," Khan told Mail Today.

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Asked if he has managed to get evidences on Vishwas trying to reach out to MLAs in what was alleged a coup against Kejriwal, Khan said, "His proximity to Kapil Mishra is no longer hidden. It can be seen very clearly now."

VISHWAS VS KHAN GETS INTENSE

The Okhla MLA shot back into controversy on Thursday as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal attended an Iftar ceremony organised by him in his constituency.

While the senior leadership sprung to his defence, calling the event a party function and therefore the CM's participation in it.

The three-member committee comprising senior leaders Ashutosh and Atishi Marlena and headed by National General Secretary Pankaj Gupta was mandated to look into the allegations by Khan.

The committee had given him a three-week deadline to submit his representation.

"We have sent him a reminder at the end of the deadline and he has sought some more time. We are now awaiting to hear from him," a member of the committee said. Meanwhile Khan, who was asked to step down from the PAC before being suspended from the primary membership of the party, was appointed a member in seven committees formed by the Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The move was seen as a snub to Vishwas, who had insisted on Khan's suspension if he were to remain in the party.

Also read: AAP ranks miffed with Kumar Vishwas over his 'don't stay in 5-star' comment

Also read: Kapil Mishra assaulted inside Delhi Assembly by AAP MLAs; on Kejriwal's order, alleges ex-minister

Also read: To address unavailability of drugs in Delhi hospitals, AAP govt to strengthen procurement of medicines

Also watch: Posters outside AAP's Delhi office call Kumar Vishwas traitor

--- ENDS ---
19 June 2017 15:00 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

Kars will host a meeting of railway departments of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey on July 5, to discuss the implementation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) project, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Railways CJSC Javid Gurbanov said on June 19.

The parties will assess the situation with the implementation of the project and discuss the state of affairs, according to him.

"As a result of this meeting, it will be possible to announce the launch date of the BTK and it is expected that the project will be launched this year," Gurbanov said.

The BTK railway is a corridor that will connect Azerbaijan, Georgian and Turkish railways. It is being constructed on the basis of the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey intergovernmental agreement. The main purpose of the project is to improve economic relations between the three countries and gaining foreign direct investment by connecting Europe and Asia.

The project implementation began in 2007 and construction began in 2008.

The line is intended to transport one million passengers and 6.5 million tons of freight at the first stage. This capacity will then reach 3 million passengers and 17 million tons of cargo.

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19 June 2017 16:00 (UTC+04:00)

By Laman Ismayilova

A new tactile project  a bronze layout of Icherisheher designed for blind or visually impaired people was presented in Baku.

The project's authors are Cyril Rabat from France and Azerbaijani Suleyman Veliyev, Trend Life reported.

Icherisheher, the pearl at the heart of Azerbaijans cultural heritage, has a history of thousands of years and is located in the historic centre of ancient Baku. This unique historic ensemble has been called the Acropolis of Baku, Old City or Inner City. There are hundreds of historical-architectural structures in an area no bigger than 22.5 hectares, surrounded by the fortress walls. Four of them are of international and twenty-eight are of national significance. In 2000, Icherisheher, together with Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshahs complex, were added to the World Cultural Heritage list and are being preserved by UNESCO as a historical-architectural reserve.

The newly-developed tactile map will allow visually impaired people to sense Baku`s most visited landmarks, including the Maiden Tower, and even narrow streets. The map is flexible to use.

The unique layout-map was created by German architect Egbert Broadcom, who used the 3D technology. All residential buildings and architectural monuments of the ancient part of Baku have been created with the use of high-tech 3D printing. Braille inscriptions are also present.

Cyril Rabat said that the work on the project lasted two years."I'm living and working in Baku for about 17 years. Im married to an Azerbaijani woman, I have two children and this project reflects my love and reverence for Azerbaijan, he said.

Baku has always been a city of multiculturalism and tolerant values, and Icherisheher is its vivid manifestation. This layout in bronze for the visually impaired is our gift to the city, which became native for me.

Suleyman Veliev, commenting on the project, said: "There is a stereotype that blind people are very limited in their capabilities. But in fact, they strive to live as you and I, however, do it in the dark. Every day for them is a real test of strength. This project aims at to "show" those people Icherisheher, its history and architecture, about which they heard, but not saw.

French Ambassador to Azerbaijan Aurelia Bouchez, in turn, stressed that this project is another evidence of strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and France in cultural and social spheres.

Head of the State Historical-Architectural Reserve Icherisheher Asker Askerov stressed that the government creates all the conditions for people with disabilities, and implements various programs and projects.

Today, there is an estimated 180 million people worldwide who are visually disabled. Of these, between 40 and 45 million persons are blind and, by definition, cannot walk about unaided.

There are about 42, 000 visually impaired people in Azerbaijan and 30% of them are children, according to the statistcs.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova

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19 June 2017 14:42 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

For about three decades, the Armenian armed units illegally occupy 20 percent of Azerbaijans internationally recognized territories, and daily breach the ceasefire regime by firing Azerbaijani positions, even settlements near the frontline.

Moreover, Armenian units regularly try to carry out acts of sabotage on the contact line between the troops and by this aggravate the situation.

Over the past three days, Armenian armed units violated the ceasefire regime as many as 368 times in total by firing the positions of the Azerbaijani armed forces located in the front line. The Armenian militaries were using 60 and 82 millimeter mortars and large-caliber machine guns during ceasefire breaching. Although the Azerbaijani side silenced the enemy by return fire, the situation on the contact line remains unstable and dangerous.

Armenian armed forces has intensified their attacks on the opposite positions over the past few days, thus killing an Azerbaijani soldier on the contact line of troops on June 16. The Azerbaijani side retaliated the provocations and five soldiers of the Armenian armed forces were eliminated on the line of contact, Azerbaijans Defense Ministry reported on June 17.

Another noteworthy fact is that the Armenian militaries intensified frontline provocations ahead of the OSCE Minsk Groups visit to the region. This is the clear evidence that Armenia tries to undermine the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict through substantive negotiations and maintain the status quo in the occupied Azerbaijani lands.

Armenia remains deaf to the visits of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs to the region or their calls. The aggressor country keeps attacking at Azerbaijani troops instead of sitting at the negotiating table and resolving the problem peacefully.

Baku has repeatedly expressed its consent to come to the negotiating table with Armenia to solve the conflict by peaceful means, but Armenia continues to play for time and avoids substantive negotiations in order to preserve the status quo in Nagorno-Karabakh.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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19 June 2017 16:17 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

The tensions on the contact line between the Armenian and Azerbaijani troops have increased markedly in recent months. Azerbaijans positions come under fire from Armenian military units in almost entire frontline; however, these provocations receive strong rebuff from the Azerbaijani side.

Constant calls of the OSCE Minsk Group, which acts as the only mediator in resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, have no effect on the Armenian authorities. This is proved by the fact that the Armenian provocations do not cease even though the Minsk Group co-chairs are currently on a visit to the region.

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noted that Moscow does not exclude the discussion of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the meeting of Russian and French Foreign Ministers Sergey Lavrov and Jean-Yves Le Drian on June 20 in Moscow.

Furthermore French President Emmanuel Macron has recently noted the necessity of settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He said France will remain committed to its obligations on finding a negotiated, fair, and lasting solution to the problem.

Russian political analyst Daria Grevtsova has told Day.az that there are several reasons implying intensification of the negotiation process in the near future.

First, the new French president will try to find common grounds on different topics with the Russian leadership. All sides have a similar position on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict  necessity of a compromise and prevention of the war, the expert said. Therefore, it would be beneficial to develop joint proposals that would be a breakthrough in the negotiation process.

Secondly, according to Grevtsova, the escalation on the frontline in April last year showed that the conflict is not frozen. The conflict needs to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid repetition of military actions and casualties, the expert said.

The meeting [between the French and Russian FMs] may be a step towards a breakthrough in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, she said, but noted that it is too early to claim that.

Azerbaijan and Armenia fought a lengthy war that ended with signing of a fragile ceasefire in 1994. Since the war, Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan's territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and over 1 million were displaced as a result of the large-scale hostilities.

While the OSCE Minsk Group acted as the only mediator in resolution of the conflict, the occupation of the territory of the sovereign state with its internationally recognized boundaries has been left out of due attention of the international community for years.

Armenia ignores four UN Security Council resolutions on immediate withdrawal from the occupied territory of Azerbaijan, thus keeping tension high in the region.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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19 June 2017 17:27 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

The OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs deeply regret the recent escalation at the frontline, Russian co-chair Igor Popov told reporters in Baku on June 19.

He said that the Minsk Group discussed this issue with the Azerbaijani president and defense minister.

We deeply regret over repeated ceasefire violations on the eve of our visit to the region. We should do our utmost to avoid similar recurrences, said Popov, adding that the Minsk Group will make every effort to reduce the tension.

As for the last statement of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, Popov said that it was addressed to both sides and the main goal was aimed at reducing the tension on the contact line, APA reported.

The diplomat emphasized that the Minsk Group hopes for the continuation of political dialogue between the parties to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

The Minsk Group co-chairs are currently on a visit to Baku to mull the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict resolution. Previously, the co-chairs visited Yerevan and then the occupied Azerbaijani territories. Popov noted that both in Baku and Yerevan the co-chairs held discussions in connection with the resumption of political dialogue.

As a result of the discussions, it can be concluded that the presidents of both countries support the continuation of peace talks, the diplomat said.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict 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 regions. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and over 1 million were displaced as a result of the large-scale hostilities. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.

Armenia still controls fifth part of Azerbaijan's territory and rejects implementing four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding districts.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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19 June 2017 18:04 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

Baku considers Armenia's recent provocations on the frontline as a non-constructive position, said Ali Hasanov, the Azerbaijani President`s Assistant for Public and Political Affairs.

"Azerbaijan's stance on the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is obvious, Hasanov told reports on June 19, Azertac reported. And this stance is delivered to the international community and a number of other organizations dealing with the issue, including the UN Security Council, the OSCE, the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. Our country's position is that Azerbaijan's territorial integrity must be restored, refugees and internally displaced persons must return to their homelands, and the norms of international law concerning the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict must be followed.

"Of course, we understand the OSCE Minsk Group co-chair countries' and international organizations' different positions on this issue. But the key point is the issue of territorial integrity which is an inviolable principle of international law, the top official added.

Hasanov reminded that President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly stated that Azerbaijan will make no concessions to anybody even an inch of its territory. However, we are ready to achieve a constructive peace as well, Hasanov said.

The Presidential Assistant emphasized that the co-chairs' visits to Azerbaijan contribute to clarifying the situation, re-studying the sides' positions and achieving progress on the conflict resolution against a background of rapprochement of these positions.

"We consider that majority of both bilateral meetings and the meetings involving the co-chairs, as well as the meetings of the heads of state and foreign ministers contribute to finding common positions, and sooner or later they will be found. Otherwise, the fact that the Azerbaijani army will liberate Nagorno-Karabakh and other lands which are under the Armenian occupation is inevitable."

Ali Hasanov noted that Armenia's aggressive policy has been continuous so far, without any breaks. They simply step back a bit at some points, trying to conceal their stance and mislead the international community. In general, we have never seen the Armenians' doing without provocation since 1990s. They have constantly resorted to provocations, and continue their deeds particularly at a time when the international negotiations have intensified and the efforts to eliminate the status quo increased on the international arena. They try to reinforce the confrontation on the frontline and hide their anti-Azerbaijani position on international arena. On the other hand, they try to cover up their population`s discontent with the Armenian authorities and the spineless regime across the country. Therefore, we consider these provocations as a non-constructive stance of the Armenian authority as the previous ones, he added.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

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19 June 2017 18:01 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

The OSCE Minsk Group (MG) encourages the sides of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to consider measures that would reduce tensions on the line of contact and the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, says a statement by the OSCE MG co-chairs, issued June 19.

The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (ambassadors Igor Popov of Russia, Stephane Visconti of France, and Richard Hoagland of the United States of America), together with the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, traveled to the region in June, says the statement.

The main purpose of the co-chairs visit was to discuss the position of the sides towards the next steps in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process after the trilateral ministerial meeting in Moscow (April 28), as well as the overall situation in the conflict zone, according to the statement.

The co-chairs met with Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan in Yerevan on June 10 and with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on June 19, as well as held consultations with the two countries foreign and defense ministers, says the statement.

In Baku, they also met with the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh.

In their talks in Baku, the co-chairs expressed deep concern over the recent violations of the ceasefire, resulting in casualties on the line of contact on the eve of their visit to Azerbaijan.

They appealed to the conflict sides to avoid further escalation, says the statement.

In both capitals, the co-chairs called upon the parties to re-engage in negotiations on substance, in good faith and with political will, according to the statement. They underscored that this is the only way to bring a lasting peace to the people of the region, who expect and deserve progress in the settlement of the conflict. The presidents expressed their intention to resume political dialogue in an attempt to find a compromise solution for the most controversial issues of the settlement.

Azerbaijan and Armenia fought a lengthy war that ended with signing of a fragile ceasefire in 1994. Since the war, Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan's territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions. More than 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed and over 1 million were displaced as a result of the large-scale hostilities.

While the OSCE Minsk Group acted as the only mediator in resolution of the conflict, the occupation of the territory of the sovereign state with its internationally recognized boundaries has been left out of due attention of the international community for years.

Armenia ignores four UN Security Council resolutions on immediate withdrawal from the occupied territory of Azerbaijan, thus keeping tension high in the region.

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19 June 2017 12:03 (UTC+04:00)

By Rashid Shirinov

Azerbaijani Armed Forces have started large-scale operational and tactical exercises to check the combat readiness of the troops, organize the command and control of forces and assets, as well as their.

The drills are being held in line with the plan approved by Azerbaijani President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev interoperability, the Defense Ministry reported on June 19.

The six-day exercises will involve up to 23,000 military personnel, up to 120 tanks and armored vehicles, up to 180 rocket artillery systems of different caliber, multiple launch rocket systems and mortars, up to 30 combat aircraft for various purposes, as well as new electronic reconnaissance assets and unmanned aerial vehicles are involved in the exercises.

The Azerbaijani Army, which today is considered the most modern army in the Caucasus, consists of Air Force and Air Defense Forces, the Navy, and the Land Forces.

The skills and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani army are growing year by year, as the countrys Armed Forces regularly conduct military exercises. The Azerbaijani army is supplied with modern weapons and technical equipment for maintaining a high level of combat capability.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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19 June 2017 15:27 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

Realization of startup projects in universities creates new opportunities for young people and for universities themselves.

Education Minister Mikayil Jabbarov made the remark speaking at the second Festival of Startup and Innovations at the Azerbaijan State University of Oil and Industry.



The minister noted that startup projects implemented in universities open the way for young people with creative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit.

On the other hand, it allows universities to demonstrate their business potential. We regard these projects as investments aimed at the future of Azerbaijan. Together with the universities we are at the beginning of this path, and together with them we must act from a single national platform, he said.

Minister of Transport, Communications and High Technologies Ramin Guluzade, in turn, noted that so far more than 300 persons attracted to startup-projects have applied to the High-Tech Park, and 29 of them are currently active in the Park.

The minister said that one of the important directions in this area is the support of ideas based on modern scientific achievements.



To date, the ICT Foundation has organized four grant competitions on innovative areas, 100 of more than 600 projects have been financed. The formation of the ICT system is based on incubation centers, he said.

Recently, the Startup Portal of Azerbaijan was created with the support of the State Fund for the Development of Information Technologies of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies.

The main goal of the portal Startup.Az, is to support the sustainable development of the startup ecosystem in Azerbaijan, to continue its activities in the Parter status of state and private organizations engaged in this field.



The portal plans to become a "bridge" between start-ups and investors, through analyzing existing trends in the global and local markets, and provide various support.

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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli



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19 June 2017 15:34 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

Azerbaijan and Colombia are keen on developing cooperation in many areas, including economy, agriculture, trade and tourism.

The topic was discussed in Baku, as President Ilham Aliyev received Foreign Minister of Colombia Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar, who was on a visit to the country.

They hailed good opportunities for developing Azerbaijan-Colombia cooperation in a number of fields and underlined both countries' interest in expanding these ties.

Cuellar praised the opening of the Colombian Embassy in Azerbaijan, adding that they operate together with Peru and Mexico, member countries of the Pacific Alliance.

Hailing Azerbaijan`s huge opportunities, the Colombian minister underlined her country's readiness to work with Azerbaijan to boost the bilateral cooperation.



Cuellar briefed the head of state on ongoing processes in her country, saying construction work started in Colombia after a peace agreement was reached as a result of a long-lasting conflict in the country. She added that a number of agricultural development projects were implemented in Colombia.

In turn, President Aliyev emphasized that the development of regions and agriculture is one of the key priority issues in Azerbaijan too, highlighting the reforms carried out in the country in this regard.

On the next day, Cuellar met with her Azerbaijani counterpart Elmar Mammadyarov. The ministers expressed satisfaction with the positive developments in the political dialogue.

They noted the importance of reciprocal visits to foster the ties and cooperation between Colombia and Azerbaijan. Cuellar and Mammadyarov emphasized that exchange of permanent diplomatic presence in both countries has provided additional impetus to furthering bilateral cooperation.

The ministers reiterated their mutual respect and support to each others territorial integrity, sovereignty and inviolability of internationally recognized borders. They also emphasized the inadmissibility of the use of force for the acquisition of territory.

The ministers emphasized the wide range of opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation in the economic, trade, education, tourism, agriculture, energy, logistics, investment and humanitarian sectors. In education, the exchange of students and scholars was particularly highlighted.

The Colombian FMs visit to the regions of Azerbaijan  Hajigabul, Kurdamir, Goychay, and Zagatala had the purpose of strengthening bilateral cooperation to produce hazelnut and pomegranates, considering its future contribution as a productive project, important for Colombias peace building.

The ministers expressed assurance that agreement on cooperation signed during the visit of Mammadyarov to Colombia (at the begging of June) will boost cooperation in the field of culture and tourism.

They mentioned the special role of parliamentary diplomacy in expanding bilateral cooperation. They also highlighted the activities of Azerbaijan-Colombia Parliamentary Friendship.

Mammadyarov further expressed his appreciation for the documents adopted by the Senate of Colombia, namely the resolution on Illegal occupation of the territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan and document on the 25th anniversary of Khojaly Genocide.

Colombia is the second country in Latin America [the first country is Mexico], the Senate of which adopted a resolution condemning the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia and assessing the events in Khojaly in 1992 as an act of genocide.

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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli



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By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) A cargo flight today landed from Kabul to New Delhi, establishing an air freight corridor between Afghanistan and India.

The air freight corridor will give a fillip to the trade relations between the two countries and give landlocked Afghanistan a greater access to markets in India. It will also benefit Afghan farmers by giving them a quick and direct access to the Indian markets for their perishable produce.

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The arrival of the cargo flight from Kabul to Delhi marked the inauguration of the dedicated air freight corridor, a decision taken in a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Afghan President Ghani in September 2016.

Modi said the direct (air freight) connectivity between India and Afghanistan will "usher prosperity".

"I thank President @ashrafghani for the initiative," Modi tweeted.

The flight was flagged off by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the presence of several Afghan Cabinet ministers and Indias ambassador to Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra.

In Delhi, the flight, carrying 60 tonnes of cargo, mostly asafoetida (hing), was received by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Civil Aviation Minister Gajapathi Raju, Minister of State in the MEA M J Akbar and Afghan envoy to India Shaida Abdali.

During his visit to India in September 2016, Ghani had urged Indian and Afghan businesses to achieve a target of USD 10 billion in trade over the next five years.

The ministry also eased its visa regime for Afghan business-persons, apart from increasing the duration of stay for Afghan tourists and patients since February this year.

Presently, there are four to five flights operating daily between Afghanistan and India, bringing nearly 1,000 Afghans, many of them for medical treatment in Indian hospitals.

India has been closely working with Afghanistan to create alternate and reliable access routes for the landlocked country.

In January 2015, India had announced its decision to allow Afghan trucks to enter the Indian territory through Attari land check-post for offloading and loading goods from and to Afghanistan.

India is also working with Afghanistan and Iran for development of the Chabahar Port. A trilateral transport and transit agreement based on sea access through Chabahar was signed between the three countries in Tehran in May 2016.

Currently major exports from India to Afghanistan are man-made filaments, apparels and clothing accessories, pharmaceutical products, cereals, man-made staple fibres, tobacco products, dairy and poultry products, coffee, tea,meat and spices.

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Major imports from Afghanistan to India are fresh fruits, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, vegetables, oil seeds, precious, semi-precious stones. PTI PR AAR

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19 June 2017 16:26 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Azerbaijan is the only state in the South Caucasus region wherewith Romania has a strategic partnership, the Romanian Foreign Ministry said in a message on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between two countries.

The ministry noted that Romania was the second country after Turkey to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan on December 11, 1991.

The Ministry stressed that with its geostrategic position and natural resources, Azerbaijan can play an important role in strengthening Europe's energy security as well as in the East-West and North-South transport corridors.

Romania supports the implementation of the Southern Natural Gas Corridor project (which is already underway), which will contribute to the diversification of gas supply sources to European countries, the Foreign Ministry said.

Besides, Romania is interested in regional projects on the development of transport routes between Europe and Asia, according to the ministry.

The ministry also noted that Romania supports further development of EU-Azerbaijan relations, including the fast conclusion of a new, ambitious and comprehensive Framework Agreement to develop and deepen the provisions of the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement signed in 1999.

All this creates strong premises for the further development of the political and diplomatic dialogue, on a governmental and parliamentary level, as well as for the Romanian-Azerbaijani bilateral cooperation in all areas, the ministry said.

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19 June 2017 13:02 (UTC+04:00)

By Sara Israfilbayova

The National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) has expanded the list of companies that will be able to participate in the tender for the development of oil and gas fields in the country.

The number of foreign companies that can participate in the tender for the development of Iranian deposits reached 34, including Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR, Russian Gazprom Neft, Rosneft, Tatneft and Zarubezhneft.

The expansion took place on the eve of the tender for the development of the large Azadegan oil field, which is to be held on June 19. This will be the first tender in Iran to be held under the terms of a new model of agreements designed to replace the less successful previous version.

The NIOC, with a vast amount of oil and gas resources, is one of the worlds largest oil companies. At the present time, it is estimated that the company holds 156.53 billion barrels of liquid hydrocarbons and 33.79 trillion cubic meters of natural gas.

The International Monetary Funds estimates that Irans crude oil output would increase from 4.1 mb/d in 2017 to 5.4 mb/d by 2022. Wood Mackenzies estimations also indicate that Irans crude oil (without gas condensate) would increase from 3.899 mb/d in 2017 to 4.29 mb/d in 2022.

Iran introduced 49 oil and gas fields to foreign investors based on newly designed oil contract, called the Iran Petroleum Contract (IPC) in 2015.

Previously, Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said that about $20-$30 billion worth of foreign investments are expected to be attracted based on the IPC.

SOCAR is a wholly state-owned national oil company headquartered in Baku, Azerbaijan. The company produces oil and natural gas from onshore and offshore fields in the Azerbaijani section of the Caspian Sea.

At present, SOCAR is the only producer of petroleum products in the country, and operates more than 370 petrol stations in Switzerland, Georgia, Romania and Ukraine. SOCAR is also a co-owner of Turkey's largest petrochemical complex Petkim and other assets in Turkey.

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19 June 2017 10:23 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has sent a congratulatory letter to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

I gratefully received your congratulatory letter on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, Hassan Rouhani said to Ilham Aliyev in the letter. I also offer my heartfelt congratulations to Your Excellency on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries.

In the past 25 years, the two friendly and fraternal countries, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan, have taken big steps to expand relations to our common benefit and based on mutual respect, said the letter. I express my confidence that given our peoples` common interests, good neighborly relations between the two countries will further deepen through our increased efforts to ensure our interests at bilateral, regional and international levels.

I would like to take this opportunity to pray to Allah the Almighty for your robust health and success and for prosperity and well-being of the government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Iranian president said.

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19 June 2017 10:10 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

At least six police were killed and dozens of people wounded when as many as six gunmen and a suicide bomber attacked a police headquarters in eastern Afghanistan on Sunday morning, officials said.

It took Afghan security forces most of the day to kill the last gunmen, who had barricaded themselves in a kitchen in the compound, according to police, Reuters reported.

The attack, claimed by the Taliban, began around 6:30 a.m. (0200 GMT) when one bomber detonated a car packed with explosives at the gate of the police headquarters in Gardez city, capital of Paktia province, said Najib Danish, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry.

Around six attackers stormed the gate after the blast, with at least two quickly killed by police. The others held out against Afghan special forces that had responded to the attack, he said.

Paktia police chief Toryalai Abdani put the toll at six police killed and 12 wounded.

Doctors at the city hospital said they had received the bodies of at least five police, as well as at least 30 wounded people, including 21 civilians.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid reporting more than 100 police were killed and wounded. The Islamist group often exaggerates casualty numbers in attacks against government targets and security forces.

Insurgent groups like the Taliban and Islamic State have launched a string of attacks across Afghanistan in recent weeks.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a mosque in Kabul on Thursday.

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19 June 2017 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

A soldier was martyred during a clash between security forces and PKK terrorists in eastern Tunceli province on Sunday, according to a local security source.

The clash in Nazimiye district left two other soldiers wounded, the source said on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media, Anadolu reported.

The injured soldiers were rushed to Tunceli State Hospital, the source said, adding an air-backed operation against PKK terrorists remained ongoing in the region.

The PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- resumed its armed campaign against Turkey in July 2015.

Since then, it has been responsible for the deaths of some 1,200 Turkish security personnel and civilians, including a number of women and children.

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19 June 2017 11:50 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Qatar's isolation by a number of Arab states in the region is directed against its sovereignty.

Ambassador of Qatar in the United States, Mashal bin Hamad al-Thani said in an interview with the Al-Jazeera TV channel.

Qatar's isolation by its powerful neighbors is not connected with accusations of "supporting terrorism," according to ambassador.

Al-Thani noted that there are specific states interested in isolating Qatar and one of these countries is the United Arab Emirates.

Meanwhile, Qatar says it will continue to supply gas to the UAE, despite the severance of relations and the blockade imposed on Doha.

"In all our contracts there is a provision on so-called force majeure ... The blockade in which we are now considered to be force majeure, and we can close the gas pipeline to the UAE, however, Qatar does not deal with contracts, but with ethics," said Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, executive director of the state oil and gas company Qatar Petroleum, in an interview with Al-Jazeera.

The closure of the gas pipeline would cause great damage to the people of the UAE, which Qatar considers to be brotherly.

"For Qatar, this is beyond the scope of the contract, and we decided that the gas will not overlap now," he said.

Several Arab countries including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt cut off diplomatic relations with Qatar, accusing the latter of supporting ISIS, Al-Qaeda and other terrorists and destabilizing the situation in the Middle East. They were later joined by Libya, Yemen, the Maldives, Mauritius and Mauritania, with Jordan and Djibouti announcing they would lower the level of diplomatic contacts with Qatar. Senegal and Chad recalled their ambassadors from Doha.

Doha denied allegations over its support to terrorism and extremism saying that the diplomatic rift was based on "baseless fabricated claims." Qatar expressed its readiness for a dialogue to solve the crisis and denied to take counter-action measures against its neighbors.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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19 June 2017 12:40 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Turkish exports of fruits and vegetables to Russia totaled 215,379 tons worth more than $123.7 million in January-May of the current year, Anadolu Agency reported citing the Association of Exporters of the Eastern Black Sea Region of Turkey (DKIB).

Trabzon is the leader in terms of exports to Russia among other 21 provinces of Turkey.

During this period, the export of fruits and vegetables from Trabzon to Russia amounted to $39 million, or 32 percent of the total exports of Turkish provinces to Russia.

In January-May, the export of fruits and vegetables from Trabzon to Russia in quantitative terms increased by 114 percent (in monetary terms - by 80 percent) compared to the same period last year.

"Following the results of five months of 2017, Trabzon is the leader of Turkey in the export of agricultural products to Russia," DKIB head Ahmed Hamdi Gundogan said.

The Russian-Turkish trade has been facing significant difficulties since late 2015 when Russia introduced a food embargo against Turkey in response to the downing of a Russian warplane over Syria. In October 2016, the Russian government approved the resolution allowing Turkey to supply mandarins, oranges, peaches and nectarines, apricots and plums to Russia.

The process to normalize bilateral ties peaked during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the Russian Black Sea resort city of Sochi on May 3.

Many other restrictions have been recently removed in accordance with agreements reached with Russia following the results of the talks between Turkish Prime minister Binali Yildirim and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev in Istanbul. The latest decree on lifting of some restrictions on Turkish food supplies was signed on June 2.

The normalization of ties between Turkey and Russia have given momentum to Turkish exports, recording a 30 percent increase in the first four months of 2017 and promising better commercial ties while imports from Russia grew by 15 percent in the same period.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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19 June 2017 13:08 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

A final agreement between Iran and French oil and gas company Total on the implementation of Phase 11 of the project to develop the South Pars gas field in southern Iran will be signed soon, Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said, IRNA reported.

This contract will be signed before the end of the current administrations tenure, according to the minister.

Earlier, Deputy Oil Minister Ali Cardor reported that the 11th phase of South Pars is another priority plan of the Oil Ministry and the signing of a final agreement on its development is expected in the coming months.

In November 2016, French oil major Total signed a preliminary agreement to help develop the massive field (South Pars Phase 11 (SP11)), becoming the first Western energy investment in Iran since international sanctions were lifted following the JCPOA. The overall cost of the project is estimated to reach $4.8 billion.

The company was also involved in the development of Phases 2 and 3 of the project in 2000.

If finalized, Total would operate the project with a 50.1 percent stake, China's CNPC would own 30 percent through one of its subsidiaries and Iran's Petropars would have 19.9 percent.

Iran plans to increase the gas production level at South Pars, the world's largest gas field, to 530 mcm/d by March 2017, while total gas output of the country is planned to reach about 830 mcm/d.

South Pars covers an area of nearly 9,700 square kilometers, with 3,700 square kilometers falling to a share of Irans territorial waters in the Persian Gulf. The remaining 6,000 square kilometers are situated in Qatars territorial waters.

South Pars, divided into 29 development phases, holds 40 tcm of natural gas, or 21 percent of worlds total gas reserves, and 50 billion barrels of condensate.

In July 2015, Iran and global powers reached what has been described as a nuke deal, where Iran agreed it would scale down its nuclear program, in return for the crippling economic sanctions being eased and eventually lifted against the oil and gas rich Islamic Republic.

After lifting the sanctions, Iran got new possibilities and access to foreign resources which were inaccessible due to the sanctions.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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19 June 2017 15:01 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev signed a law aimed at expanding the powers of the Republics Security Council.

Under the new law, the Security Council will identify internal and external risks to the vital interests of the individuals, society and the state, the press service of the head of state reported on June 19.

Moreover the Security Council will work on forecasting, analyzing and assessing challenges and threats, and develop sufficient preventive measures.

The issues of national security which require urgent solutions will be discussed at extraordinary narrow-format meetings of the Security Council.

The Security Council also got the right to inspect the activities of state bodies, including the armed forces and law enforcement agencies in the sphere of defense and security ensuring.

The law comes into force on the day of its official publication.

Kyrgyzstans Security Council is headed by the countrys president.

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19 June 2017 15:11 (UTC+04:00)

By Trend

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the Islamic Republic's missile capability helps the international fight against terrorism.



Iran's missile capability protects its citizens in lawful self-defense and advances common global fight to eradicate ISIS (ISIL aka Islamic State) terrorist group and extremist terror, Zarif wrote on his twitter account June 19.



The top Iranian diplomats statement comes after the IRGC targeted ISIS positions in Syrias Deir ez-Zor on June 18 in response to the groups recent terror attacks in Tehran, which killed 18 people and injured 50 more.



All of the six mid-range ballistic missiles targeting the terrorist positions have hit the intended targets, according to the IRGC.



The missiles were launched from Irans western provinces of Kermanshah and Kordestan and passed through Iraqs territory before hitting the targets in Syria.



The IRGC coordinated the attack with the Syrian government prior to launching missiles.

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Otto Warmbier was released by North Korea last week, after he spent 17 months in prison out of his 15 years of sentence. Warmbier was released on humanitarian grounds after he slipped in to coma.

Otto Frederick Warmbier (C), a University of Virginia student was detained in North Korea early January this year. Photo: Reuters

By AP: University of Virginia student Otto Warmbier died on Monday in a Cincinnati hospital only days after being released in a coma from 17 months of detention in North Korea, his family said in a statement.

Warmbier, 22, who was arrested in North Korea while visiting as a tourist, had been described by doctors who examined him last week as having suffered extensive brain damage that left him in a state of "unresponsive wakefulness."

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Physicians said last Thursday that Warmbier had shown no sign of understanding language or of awareness of his surroundings, and had made no "purposeful movements or behaviors."

The circumstances of his detention in North Korea, and what medical treatment he received there, remained a mystery. But relatives have said his condition suggests he was physically abused by his captors.

OTTO LAPSED IN TO COMA SOON AFTER HE WAS IMPRISONED

"Unfortunately, the awful torturous mistreatment our son received at the hands of the North Koreans ensured that no other outcome was possible beyond the sad one we experienced today," the family said in a statement following Warmbier's death at 2:20 p.m. EDT (1820 GMT).

His family has said that Warmbier had lapsed into a coma in March 2016, shortly after he was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor in North Korea.

He was arrested, according to North Korean media, for trying to steal an item bearing a propaganda slogan.

North Korea released Warmbier last week, saying he was being freed "on humanitarian grounds." The North Korean mission to the United Nations was not immediately available for comment.

The University of Virginia student's father, Fred Warmbier, said last week that his son had been "brutalized and terrorized by the Pyongyang government and that the family disbelieved North Korea's story that his son had fallen into a coma after contracting botulism and being given a sleeping pill.

DOCTORS RULE OUT NORTH KOREA'S REASONS FOR HIS CONDITION

Doctors who examined Otto Warmbier after his release said there was no sign of botulism in his system.

Warmbier was freed after the US State Department's special envoy on North Korea, Joseph Yun, traveled to Pyongyang and demanded the student's release on humanitarian grounds, capping a flurry of secret diplomatic contacts, a US official said last week.

Tensions between the United States and North Korea have been heightened by dozens of North Korean missile launches and two nuclear bomb tests since the beginning of last year. Pyongyang has also vowed to develop a nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missile capable of hitting the US mainland.

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US President Donald Trump offered condolences to the Warmbier family and denounced North Korea as a "brutal regime" with no respect for "basic human decency" and said Warmbier faced tough conditions.

Susan Thornton, the US acting assistant secretary of state for East Asia, said earlier on Monday that the United States was concerned for the welfare of the three other US citizens still held in North Korea - Korean-Americans Tony Kim, Kim Dong Chul and Kim Hak Song.

Young Pioneer Tours, the group with which Warmbier traveled to North Korea, will no longer be organizing tours for US citizens to the isolated country, Troy Collings, a company director at the group, said in a statement after his death.

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--- ENDS ---
19 June 2017 15:42 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Russia has called on the United States to coordinate its actions with partners in resolving the situation in Syria.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced about this on June 19, when commenting on the U.S.' boosting of its presence in southern Syria.

He said that all actions in Syria need to be coordinated with legitimate Syrian authorities, "especially when it comes to the occupation of certain territories in Syria, including those that could prompt questions from the point of view of the true intentions of those who carry out such seizures [of territory]."

De-escalation zones are one of the possible options to jointly move forward. We call on everyone to avoid unilateral moves, respect Syrian sovereignty and join our common work which is agreed with the Syrian Arab Republic's government, the minister said.

Moscow calls on Washington to respect Syrian territorial integrity and the country's sovereignty according to the UNSC 2254 resolution and other documents, the Russian top diplomat said.

Lavrov reminded that this is exactly what Russia, Iran and Turkey do when they offer initiatives in the framework of the Astana talks.

The U.S.-led coalition against ISIS operates in Syria without the permission of Damascus. On June 18, the Syrian army said that the U.S.-led coalition had brought down its aircraft in southern Raqqa countryside when it was fulfilling its mission against Daesh.

Later, the coalition confirmed the information saying that it shot down the Syrian government forces' Su-22 aircraft as it had allegedly been bombing in an area where U.S.-backed rebel forces, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), were stationed, south of Tabqa in the Raqqa province. The US-led coalition called its attack on the Syrian army's jet "collective self-defense," adding that it contacted the Russian military to de-escalate the situation after the incident.

Lavrov also revealed the date of the next round of the Astana talks on Syria, which UN special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura intends to attend.

"The next meeting will be held in Astana on July 10, and Secretary-Generals special representative Staffan de Mistura will participate in it. The parties agreed to finalize the coordination of specific parameters of modalities for ensuring the regime that should exist in de-escalation zones and along their perimeter at this meeting, he said.

To date, four rounds of negotiations on the ongoing Syrian conflict were held in the Astana, on January 23-24, February 15-16, March 14-15 and May 3-4.

During the most recent round, the guarantor countries of a nationwide Syrian ceasefire regime  Russia, Iran, and Turkey  agreed to establish four safety zones across the country.

The civil war in Syria between government and opposition with various terrorist groups involved, including Daesh (also known as ISIS or ISIL), began back in March 2011.

Syrian President Bashar Assad managed to turn the tide of war in his favor after Russia started an air campaign in September 2015, while Iran is an uncompromising supporter of the Syrian leader.

According to a report by the Syrian Center for Policy Research, the conflict has claimed the lives of over 470,000 people, injured 1.9 million others, and displaced nearly half of the countrys pre-war population of about 23 million within or beyond its borders.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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19 June 2017 17:41 (UTC+04:00)

By Kamila Aliyeva

Turkey wants to open a new page in relations with the European Union, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said during a press conference with his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras in Athens on June 19.

Yildirim said that President Erdogan had repeatedly voiced this. Despite the fact that Turkey and the EU have signed an agreement on the abolition of visas, the EU did not fulfill its promises, according to minister.

Earlier, the EU minister and chief negotiator on the issues of accession Omer Celik said that Turkey should not refuse to join the EU.

The Association Agreement between the EU and Turkey was signed back in 1963. Ankara filed an application for membership in the EU in 1987.

Accession negotiations started back in 2005, but until Turkey agrees to apply the Additional Protocol of the Ankara Association Agreement to Cyprus, eight negotiation chapters will not be opened and no chapter will be provisionally closed.

The Turkey-EU relations, after years of deadlock following the opening of accession talks in 2005, intensified in 2016 with parties closely cooperating to stem the flow of refugees into the EU.

The visa liberalization scheme for Turkish citizens and the speeding up of Turkeys EU accession negotiations are also part of the migration deal agreed upon in November 2015 and finalized in March 2016.

Overall, Turkey is the country in the world hosting the highest number of refugees, and has already spent significant financial resources on addressing this crisis.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
CANNES  The near-term forecast at The Weather Company calls for Watsonas in a name change that will place IBMs artificial intelligence capabilities at the forefront of a company heretofore known for its atmospheric aptitude.

The experiences that were are bringing our clients through here that are all Watson-based is really where the future is for us, The Weather Company CMO Jordan Bitterman says in this interview with Beet.TV at the 2017 Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity.

All things weather-related wont disappear altogether when The Weather Company undergoes its name change. The future does not exclude weather, because weather is obviously a big part of how we can utilize AI going forward, Bitterman says. Were going to be rolling it out in the coming months.

IBM envisions Watson as akin to the Android or iOS app stores where its a platform that people can develop on. Bitterman cites companies like Soul Machines that are building their technologies on top of the Watson stack via application programming interfaces.

For Soul Machines, building virtual humans involves using such Watson skillsets as natural language recognition to sentiment analysis. Auckland-based Soul Machines recently unveiled its first virtual assistant, Nadia, voiced by actress Cate Blanchett, as idealog reports.

Right now theres 38 different APIs that Watson has and theres more in testing right now, Bitterman says. Probably by the end of the year there should be close to 50 or even 60 different APIs that Watson can enable companies with.

Cannes attendees can demo various kinds of AI interfaces at The Weather Companys encampment at the Carlton hotel. One of the experiences is operating the self-driving car called Olli that is powered by IBMs technology.

We also have a mirror here that will let you know if you have early signs of melanoma, Bitterman explains. Which seems highly appropriate for the south of France.

This video is part of Beet.TVs AI Series from Cannes Lions 2017, presented by The Weather Company, an IBM Business. For more from the series, please visit this page.
KTM has further expanded its presence in Asia by inaugurating a new production facility in Philippines. The new facility will be used for production of four models - Duke 200, RC 200, Duke 390 and the RC 390. Along with deliveries to the local market, the facility will also supply all the way to China.



The creation of KTM Asia Motorcycle Manufacturing (KAMM)  a joint-venture partnership between Adventure Cycle Philippines and KTM, will initially limit production to 6,000 units annually. Over time, reports indicate that the production will be increased to 10,000 units. The inauguration of a new facility in Philippines will mean that customers in the local market will get localisation benefit and it will ease heavy tariff on motorcycles in ASEAN markets.



In addition to a new facility, the manufacturer plans to inaugurate 30 dealerships in the ASEAN region.
By Mustafa Shaikh: Baby born at 35,000 feet on its Dammam-Kochi Jet Airways flight on Sunday will be kept under observation at Mumbai's Holy Spirit Hospital for five days. Jet Airways has already announced free lifetime travel for the baby.

Sister Sneha, executive director of Holy Spirit Hospital said that both the mother and the baby boy were doing fine.

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"The baby weighs about two kgs and 250 grams. When he was brought in, the glucose levels were slightly low. But now the baby is doing fine," she said adding that the baby is in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and will be kept there until he gains some more weight.

The hospital staff said that the since the baby was born in the flight there were signs of infection and hence the baby is on light antibiotics.

"Room where delivery takes place has to be sanitised, but this was an emergency case and that's why the baby was kept in NICU. We have checked him for infections, we feel that the protein has come slightly higher which means there may be some infection. We are giving him a milder form of antibiotics which will take five days. The mother is doing well," said Sister Sneha.

The mother was accompanied by her parents at the hospital on Sunday. Jet Airways in a statement said, "Jet Airways commends its crew for their response and promptness that saw them successfully translate their training into life saving action. The airline expresses its gratitude to Ms Wilson, the on board paramedic for her guidance. Being the first baby to be born in flight for the airline, Jet Airways is pleased to offer the newly-born a free lifetime pass for all his travel on Jet Airways."

Also read:

Passenger, crew help Kerala woman give birth to a baby boy at 35,000 feet in Jet flight

WATCH: Newborn baby walks immediately after birth, takes internet by storm

Baby on board: Turkish Airlines crew help woman deliver baby at 42,000 feet

WATCH | India issues medical visa to Pakistani infant, family

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Published On Jun 19, 2017 07:07 PM By akas for Jeep Compass 2017-2021

You can book one for a token amount of Rs 50,000.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) India will start accepting official bookings for its upcoming premium SUV, the Compass from June 20, 2017. Interested customers can book the made-in-India SUV for a token amount of Rs 50,000 through Jeep India's official website or by visiting the nearest FCA or Jeep-exclusive showrooms. The Compass is likely to be launched in the first week of August 2017 with an expected starting price of Rs 18 to 20 lakh. However, it has been completely unveiled ahead of its launch. We have already driven the Compass and to know our thoughts on it, and if you should book one, click here.

The Compass is also on display on all FCA and Jeep-exclusive showrooms across the country. And moreover, to spread its customer outreach, FCA is also displaying the Compass at 26 shopping malls across 21 cities. The Jeep Compass will be available in five colours  Minimal Grey, Exotica Red, Hydro Blue, Vocal White and Hip Hop Black, and three variants  Sport, Longitude and Limited. You can also choose between a 4x2 or 4x4 powertrain.

Also read: Jeep Compass: Variants Explained

Speaking about the powertrain, it has two engine options on offer: a 1.4-litre Multi-air petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel. The diesel engine produces 173PS of power and 350Nm of torque and is coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission. On the other hand, the petrol has 162PS and 250Nm power figures and comes with a 6-speed manual as well as an optional 7-speed automatic.

The Compass is manufactured at FCA's Ranjangaon facility near Pune, which has been set up with an investment of Rs 1800 crore and is the only factory in this world which produces a right-hand variant of the Compass. The made-in-India Compass will also be exported to other right-hand drive markets like the UK and Japan.

Due to the high level of localisation, the compass is expected to be priced very competitively in its segment. When launched, it will compete with SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Hyundai Tucson and the Honda CR-V.

Also Read: Jeep Compass Vs Hyundai Tucson Vs Honda CR-V Vs Skoda Yeti  Spec Comparison
The Animal Husbandry Department of the BBMP proposed to demolish the century-old clinic and build a two-storeyed multi-speciality hospital after trees are felled.

By Nolan Pinto: Enter the Government Veterinary Hospital campus on Queens Road and you will certainly be lost in another world. Surrounded by trees whose canopies almost cover the entire area, there are a few buildings that were constructed in 1908 during the time of British Collector FR Richards. The buildings are used today by the veterinary hospital under the Animal Husbandry Department.

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Trouble started a few months ago, when the concerned citizens got a whiff of construction activity that was about to begin. They learnt that the project would entail the felling of a large number of trees in the 3.6 acre plot of land.

The Animal Husbandry Department of the BBMP proposed to demolish the century-old clinic and build a two-storeyed multi-speciality hospital in its place.

This led the concerned citizens do a tree mapping exercise in the month of March and what they found out thrilled and shocked them as well. The large number of trees in the campus meant that this area could come under a 'Deemed Forest' and hence protected. What shocked them was that the government had already decided without any public consultation to fell almost 56 trees of more than 92 present.

FIGHT BEARS FRUIT

Priya Chetty, a citizen activist spearheading the fight to save the few remaining green spaces the city has today, tells India Today that after continuously following up with the government agencies and with various officials, the Animal Husbandry Department has decided to not fell any of the trees. On June 17, she managed to secure an assurance in writing from the Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) that no trees would be touched and that the architect would re-design the entire project.

This may be a small victory for citizens to save Bengaluru's green cover but what troubles her is the attitude of the government to such issues. She says it is sad that citizens need to keep on fighting when they should be working along with the government.

Citizens are now treating this success as a template for other green warriors in the city. Chetty says that after the fight against the steel flyover, which the citizens won and saved thousands of trees, this was another case where citizen activism achieved success. She says, "This case becomes a case in point such that if the government ever changes fallow lands (filled with trees) for commercial usage, they will remember that it can be stopped."

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LOOKING FOR AN ALTERNATE PLAN

S Shekar, Commissioner, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services in Bengaluru whom India Today met was all praise for the citizens who worked tirelessly to advice the officials to go for an alternate plan and thereby save the trees.

According to the commissioner, the project was approved 2 years ago with almost Rs 7.5 crores allotted to Karnataka Housing Board which finalised an agency through the Transparency Act.

Regarding the NGO, Sarvodaya Sevabhavi Samstha involved in the Animal Birth Control programme, which was very unceremoniously stopped from functioning in the same campus by cutting electricity and water connection, the commissioner has assured to provide them with an old hospital building as a temporary measure.

Also read: Bengaluru tech firm to female employee: Not responsible for your safety after you log out

Also read: Bengaluru Police to make 100 one-stop number for all emergencies

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Semen Baturaja expecting higher sales

19 June 2017

Indonesia state-owned cement producer Semen Baturaja is anticipating higher sales this year following the start-up of operations at its new line together with government infrastructure projects.



Additional production will occur in July with the operation of our new factory, Semen Baturaja president director Rahmad Pribadi told local press on Thursday. Our existing [production] capacity has been fully absorbed by the market and we will have additional capacity in the second half to boost our sales.



The company expects to achieve a 33 per cent rise in sales to IDR2trn (US$150.6m) this year following 4.1 per cent growth in 2016.



The new plant, located in Baturaja, Palembang, South Sumatra, is expected to produce 550,000t of cement this year. The plant will produce an estimated 1.85Mta of cement, allowing Semen Baturaja to reach its production capacity target of 3.85Mt.



Semen Baturaja projects to produce 2.1Mt of cement by the end of the year, a significant increase compared to 1.6Mt produced last year. Thus, its net profit is also projected to nearly double to approximately IDR500bn by December.



Rahmad said his firm was not concerned about the declining cement market in Indonesia because the markets in southern and central parts of Sumatra, in which Semen Baturaja operates, had different characteristics.



While other markets in eastern parts of the country, such as Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua, contracted, those in southern and central Sumatra continued to increase, he said. This was because of support from the governments infrastructure projects, he said.









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Bank of Hawaii Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Bank of Hawaii that provides various financial products and services in Hawaii, Guam, and other Pacific Islands. It operates in three segments: Consumer Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury and Other. The Consumer Banking segment offers checking, savings, and time deposit accounts; residential mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit, automobile loans and leases, personal lines of credit, installment loans, small business loans and leases, and credit cards; private and international client banking, investment, credit, and trust services to individuals and families, and high-net-worth individuals; investment management; institutional investment advisory services to corporations, government entities, and foundations; and brokerage offerings, including equities, mutual funds, life insurance, and annuity products. This segment operates 54 branch locations and 307 ATMs throughout Hawaii and the Pacific Islands, and a customer service center, as well as through online and mobile banking. The Commercial Banking segment provides corporate banking, commercial real estate loans, commercial lease financing, auto dealer financing, and deposit products. It offers commercial lending and deposit products to middle-market and large companies, and government entities; commercial real estate mortgages to investors, developers, and builders; and international banking and merchant services. The Treasury and Other segment offers corporate asset and liability management services, including interest rate risk management and foreign exchange services. Bank of Hawaii Corporation was founded in 1897 and is headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Anjali Srivastava (29) committed suicide at her residence in Mumbai. The incident came to light on Monday afternoon.

By Saurabh Vaktania: Barely a week after actor-model Kritika Choudhary's decomposed body was found in her west Andheri apartment, yet another case of death of a young actor has come to the fore.

Anjali Srivastava (29) committed suicide at her residence in Mumbai. The incident came to light on Monday afternoon.

Police officials said that the relatives of Srivastava were trying to call her for a long time, however, none of their calls were returned.

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The 29-year-old struggling actor was staying near Costa Cafe, Juhu Lane, Andheri West.

She was found hanging by the ceiling fan when the owner of her house opened the door using duplicate keys. She hung herself using a saree.

Moments after the police were called; Srivastava was rushed to the Cooper hospital where she was declared dead.

Police said they could not find any suicide note from the spot. An investigation to ascertain the motive behind the actor's drastic measure is underway.

Sources said that Srivastava was a popular face in Bhojpuri film industry.

A week ago, 23-year-old Kritika Choudhary was found dead in her Andheri Apartment. Kritika Choudhary, a resident of Haridwar, was a struggling actress in the film industry.

Also read:

Mumbai: Actor-model Kritika Choudhary's decomposed body found, murder suspected

New lease on life: IIT student, convicted of girlfriend's murder, turns maths teacher

How a former Infosys techie turned into a psycho killer who inspired a Bollywood film

Actor and model Kritika Chaudhary found dead under suspicious circumstances in Mumbai flat

WATCH | Actor-model Kritika Chaudhry found dead under suspicious circumstances in Mumbai flat

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Abu Hamza will spend life in a US jail

The radical London cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri was sentenced to life in a US prison on Friday for his conviction on terrorism-related charges, including his role in the 1998 kidnapping of Western tourists in Yemen that left four hostages dead.

US District Judge Katherine Forrest in Manhattan imposed the sentence on the one-eyed, handless Abu Hamza, whom jurors found guilty last May of providing a satellite phone and advice to the kidnappers.

Abu Hamza was also convicted of sending two followers to Oregon to establish a militant training camp and of dispatching an associate to Afghanistan to aid al Qaeda and the Taliban.

"You have not expressed sympathy or remorse," Forrest told Abu Hamza, adding that only a life sentence would ensure he could never again incite violence against innocent people.

Prior to being sentenced, Abu Hamza had told the judge: "I still maintain my innocence."

Abu Hamza, 56, had gained notoriety for his incendiary sermons at the Finsbury Park Mosque in London, which US and UK authorities said helped inspire a generation of militants, including the would-be shoe bomber Richard Reid.

Defence lawyers asked Forrest to order that Abu Hamza be housed in a medical facility, rather than a "supermax" prison where his disabilities might not be treated properly.

Forrest said she would let prison officials decide where Abu Hamza should be sent.

Abu Hamza, whose real name is Mustafa Kamel Mustafa, testified in his defence at trial. He denied he sent anyone to Oregon or Afghanistan, and claimed he acted as an intermediary during the Yemen kidnapping in search of a peaceful resolution.

He also talked of how he had lost his hands during an accidental explosion in Pakistan while working as an engineer, contradicting reports that he had lost his limbs while fighting the Soviets in Afghanistan in the 1980s.

His fiery speeches were used against him at his trial, and also at his sentencing, where Forrest cited instances in which he justified killing non-Muslims and praised the September 11, 2001, attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people in the United States.

"Abu Hamza's blood-soaked journey from cleric to convict, from imam to inmate, is now complete," Manhattan US Attorney Preet Bharara said in a statement.

Before his 2012 extradition, Abu Hamza had spent eight years in prison in Britain for inciting violence.
Finsbury Park: Terror strikes again. And we shouldn't call it anything else

The attack on worshippers outside Finsbury Park Mosque is just as appalling as the attack on passers-by on Westminster Bridge, concert-goers at the Manchester Arena and evening drinkers in Borough Market.

No less, no more. Terror is terror. Murder is murder.

You wouldn't think that such sentences needed to be written, but they do.

The man who appears to have used his van as a weapon, leaving one person dead and at least 10 wounded, is reported to have screamed: 'I'm going to kill all Muslims' and 'I'd do it again.' He has been taken into custody having been rescued from a vengeful mob by an imam, Mohammed Mahmoud. His mental state will be assessed by professionals who will decide whether he was sick or just wicked.

Whatever their decision about his potential culpability in law, the point remains: there is not one description of a terror act for Islamists radicalised by a perverse ideology and a burning sense of injustice, and another for people radicalised by the actions of those same Islamists. It isn't Christians against Muslims. It's decent people against indecent; people who believe everyone has the right to live and worship and flourish as they like, against people who see them as legitimate targets in a crazy religious war. Because religion has nothing to do with it.

No, you wouldn't imagine that would need saying.

But when the Archbishop of Canterbury posted a supportive message on Facebook, one commentator said: 'Yes violence and revenge are wrong. However a lot of people are feeling more and more that as we are not being protected by our government and there is little or no come back on the perpetrators of terrorism against us, they have to protect themselves. It will only get worse.'

Another said: 'While this kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable. it was only a matter of time before a frustrated British citizen probably feeling very 2nd class at the moment went for a bit of retaliation.'

They weren't the majority or anything like it. But you see the dynamic? 'It's not surprising that someone would want to do to them what they do to us.'

And it kind of works, if you assume 'they' are Muslims and 'we' are Christians  or at least, non-Muslims. But the reality is that 'they' are vicious, conscienceless criminals. That doesn't describe the victims of last night's attack; they were just people. And the man who did it wasn't representing 'us'; he was representing other vicious, conscienceless criminals.

There's a kind of primal tribalism that Christians above all are called to resist. It is an insidious identification with a particular people group. It can be based on colour, class, language, gender, religion or geography.

It's heresy. The whole of the New Testament is a passionate argument against it, from Jesus and the Samaritan woman to John's great vision of 'a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb'. In the politics of the Kingdom of God, 'us' and 'them' are erased.

So no victim-blaming weasel words about how 'it was only to be expected'. When opinion-formers speak glibly about 'three terrorist attacks in three months', meaning Westminster, Manchester and Borough Market, let's call them out: there were four. Let's see as much denunciation of this man as we did of all the others.

And  a day after the Great Get Together to commemorate someone else who died at the hands of an extremist  to people who say, 'See where all this talk of love and forgiveness gets you?' let's just say, 'It's infinitely better than the alternative. And we know whose side we're on.'

Follow Mark Woods on Twitter: @RevMarkWoods
Fleeing Christian militia violence, 1500 mostly Muslim civilians are trapped in church in CAR

After fleeing for their lives, as many as 1500 people  mostly Muslim civilians  have sought sanctuary in a Catholic church in the southeast of the Central African Republic.

The people fled violent conflict in May and sought protection in the Catholic cathedral in the CAR town of Bangassou, according to Al Jazeera.

'The situation is not safe enough to leave, and so they cannot move from here...there are men who walk around town with guns,' said the church's priest, Father Alain Blaise Bissialo.

The mass-flight was provoked when the predominantly Christian 'anti-Balaka' militia began attacking the majority Muslim district of Tokoyo, in Bangassou on 13-17 May.

Many at first sought refuge in a local mosque, until the mosque too was attacked, and its imam killed.

In a rescue attempt, the Catholic bishop then sent transport trucks to Tokoyo, which brought as many civilians as possible to the cathedral.

At least 150 have reportedly been killed during the violence since the attacks began.

Violence erupted in the CAR in December 2012, when several rebel groups, mainly Muslim militants, formed a coalition known as Seleka and in 2013 overthrew the CAR's then-president Francois Bozize. In retaliation, several 'anti-balaka' (meaning 'anti-machete') groups formed to combat the rebels. Some of these militias  predominantly comprising Christians  began attacking Muslims in revenge. Thousands have since been killed in the ensuing conflict.

The UN reported that most of the 35,000 residents of Bangassou fled the region, some to camps for internally displaced people, while others crossed the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The UN's mission in the CAR, MINUSCA, said though the violence had calmed it was still not safe for citizens to return home.

The displaced at the church find themselves trapped: unable to leave, and facing a severe shortage of food and clothes.

Vladimir Montiero, spokesperson for MINUSCA said: 'Despite the MINUSCA patrols, the area is not safe enough and their homes and businesses have been destroyed, and so many have nowhere to go... It is not safe for them to leave the church.'

The UN reported that over half of the CAR is in need of humanitarian assistance, with at least one in five Central Africans currently displaced.
Make friends and learn to see God in each other, religious leaders urge believers of all faiths

Religious leaders across the faith spectrum are urging believers to 'make friends' with each other.

Pope Francis, the Dalai Lama, Patriarch Bartholomew and the UK's former Chief Rabbi, Jonathan Sacks, are among the leaders who have recorded a joint video in partnership with the Elijah Interfaith Institute and Twitter to make their point that personal friendships can overcome prejudice and fear. The institute is also offering a toolkit for making friends with people of other faiths and traditions.

The statement is intended to reduce social tension around the world by stimulating interpersonal contact between people of different faiths.

The appeal was released as a 3-minute video in 16 languages during a press conference in London.

In their statements on the video, Ayatollah Al-Milani advises people to make friends with followers of all religions, Patriarch Bartholomew calls on the world to 'recognise the beauty of God in every living human being', Pope

Francis and Rabbi Abraham Skorka demonstrate how their religious experiences have been enriched by

their interfaith friendship.

Grand Mufti of Egypt Shawki Allam urges people to look for the similarities not the differences, the Dalai Lama calls for a deepening of spiritual friendship and Lord Sackks says, 'One of the wonderful things about spending time with people completely unlike you is that you discover how much you have in common. The same fears, hopes and concerns.'

The Archbishop of the Church of Sweden Antje Jackelen says, 'This should start a process that

will take prejudices away and where new insights and hope is born.'

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby says, 'It's not complicated, start with sharing what we all share, which is the pleasure of conversation.'

The joint statement is intended to counter a 'hazardous and widespread' view that followers of

religions other than our own regard us with distrust and disdain.

It comes as a new global study led by the global research institute Motivaction found that people of all faiths are

generally open to people with other beliefs.

Head researcher at Motivaction, Martijn Lamper, said that a message promoting friendship across religions is likely to resonatewith the majority of religious people around the world, which according to Pew

Research comprises more than eight in ten people worldwide.

Professor Gregory Reichberg of the Norwegian Peace Research Institute Oslo said that the misunderstanding that people of other faiths harbor animosity toward us 'sets us up for a bad dynamic and tends to produce what we fear'.

That misunderstanding stems from the lack of contact between religious people of different faiths, fueling prejudices and social tension.

Rabbi Dr. Alon Goshen-Gottstein, director of the Elijah Interfaith Institute and the chief organiser of this

joint statement, said, 'We cannot deny that in the books of many religions you can find texts that are

not very open, even hostile, to people of other faiths. Therefore, when the world's most important

leaders call for friendship, they are in fact affirming a particular way of practicing religion and rejecting

another.'
Movement Day: Is this Christian conference marginalising women?

Another day, another Christian conference. This one describes itself as 'born out of unity with a dream to see the physical, social and spiritual transformation of our towns and cities'. Which sounds great. Unity is an interesting concept and one much discussed among Christians. Does it mean all should agree in words and actions? Centuries of councils, edicts, heresies, and state executions of priests and monarchs (not so many recently) suggests that's not likely. Christian unity could come from people who share Christian faith accepting they see things differently but can set things aside for the greater good.

And yet. A scan through the website of Movement Day UK shows a unity of a different  and yet sadly familiar  shape. Instead of unity of all kinds of Christians we see... a lot of men. Of 55 speakers advertised on the website, 43 of them are men. Unity, therefore, has been agreed predominantly between the menfolk. And most of them are white, too.

There is a specific strand for women. It's called 'Women in the city' and has a photo of an uncertain-looking young blonde woman in a corporate setting. The content, though, seems to be more general. Three women are listed as participating in a stream which will cover topics including 'the opportunities, pressures, challenges and facing women in our towns and cities' (off the top of my head, walking home safely at night and not being paid less for being female would be on my list) and 'the opportunities and challenges and facing Christian women in their towns and cities and within the local church' which may actually be very similar to the things facing women in general  except there's probably less debate about modesty.

The strand asks the question 'How can churches better support, disciple and release women to serve in society?' and one obvious answer is not to sideline them at events like this. It's not empowering overall to put women in a room at an event purporting to be for the transformation of all of society and hope they encourage each other when the event itself marginalises them.

Why are they expected to talk among themselves and fix problems they haven't created when the main action is happening elsewhere? This is, of course, a society-wide issue and not just a Christian conference one. Why else would RADA be able to charge women 1850 + VAT each (and let's not forget that pesky pay gap already sapping their income) to show women how to overcome the fact they spend their careers in a 'workplace dominated by men and often the expectation, and requirements of 'macho' behaviours' and still succeed?

The issue is that the Church should be better than this. It should be a model of a more equitable way. It shouldn't be a place where women need to push themselves forward to be heard, as they were told at a recent event in New York (where the last Movement Day gathering was also held, as it happens). An all-male panel convened at a PR industry conference informed the women in the audience to 'speak up' to drown out the  here's that word again  'macho culture' of their workplaces, rather than expecting that culture to change.

Which leads on to the final question in the women strand at Movement Day UK: 'How can women better network and support each other in order to see greater kingdom transformation across our towns and cities?' Well, they already are. There are several networks and regular events bringing women together to learn from each other, develop friendships, and build support. Gathering of Women Leaders is one, the Women in Leadership network is another, and there are events like the Stepney Diocese 'Her' gatherings. Women do these things to support and build each other up already, and part of the reason they need to is the limitations of mainstream Christianity. Giving them a room at an event that expects to make the impact Movement Day does suggests the organisers aren't really aware of what could and should be different.

Movement Day isn't an event arising from a particular theological position that believes women should only function in certain roles. In ethos it is an event that should be open to all equally and representative of diversity, a reflection of creation and the kingdom. And yet, here we are with all male line ups for the 'Business' stream of the event, and a total of 12 women out of 55 speakers advertised so far.

As part of Project 3:28  another women-initiated collective to help overcome the inevitable conversations when conference organisers are challenged on these kinds of ratios and need help finding women speakers  we hear many responses and none are satisfactory. It seems to be an on-going blind spot and one that needs to be mentioned whenever it is spotted, but wouldn't it be nice if it didn't have to be? If we could get to a point where organisers not only had good enough networks to know more brilliant women speakers than they had space for, but that they saw for themselves that their programmes were unhealthily unbalanced if they were male dominated for no logical reason?

Can we one day get to a point where women aren't tucked away to discuss why society struggles with them and can instead be welcomed and celebrated for their achievements and contributions to say... business? And events would be incomplete without their contributions? Just a thought. (If it's a chair shortage issue maybe a couple of the chaps in the business track could stand or even stand down to make room?)

Then, instead of Groundhog Day maybe it would genuinely be Movement Day. And there's still time. Organisers, you have months before the event goes ahead. What movement will we see before then?

Vicky Walker is a writer and speaker, among other things. She is author of 'Do I have to be good all the time?' Follow on Twitter @Vicky_Walker. Tickets for Movement Day can be booked here

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Muslims try to save Christians when Islamist terrorists storm Kenyan school and kill Christian teacher

Suspected radicals from the al-Shabaab terrorist group reportedly shot dead a Christian teacher at an elementary school in northeastern Kenya. A Muslim teacher tried to save another Christian by offering to sacrifice himself for the other.

According to Morning Star News, the attack, which took place on May 31 at Fafi Primary School in Fafi, cost the life of Christian teacher Elly Oloo Ojiema.

"The suspected al-Shabaab militants entered the school compound and right away fired on the teacher who was teaching the pupils," said a Somali Muslim teacher, who asked not to be named.

The source revealed that another Muslim teacher saved the life of Christian teacher Joseph Kamau, who was also about to be killed, by telling the radicals he was ready to die with his colleague. As punishment, both teachers were kidnapped by the radicals.

"The al-Shabaab got angry, and told the teacher, 'We are going to teach you a lesson for protecting the infidels,' and immediately the two were carried away to unknown destination," the source explained.

The extremists beat several Muslims at the school, accusing them of housing Kenyan Christians.

"We are sounding a warning to you that we shall not take lightly you who are accommodating these infidels," one of the militants reportedly said.

Al-Shabaab, which earlier in June was named the deadliest terror group on the continent by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, has been carrying out waves of attacks in Kenya, specifically seeking to kill Christians.

The al-Qaeda-linked group reportedly slaughtered as many as 4,000 people throughout 2016. In several incidents, the militants purposefully separated Christians from Muslims in order to kill followers of Christ.

One of their deadliest attacks occurred in an assault at Kenya's Garissa University College in April 2015, where nearly 150 students, most of them Christians, were massacred.

Still, Muslims have risked their lives to shield their Christian brothers and sisters before, such as in separate bus attacks in Kenya.

One such Muslim teacher who died shielding Christians in December 2015 was posthumously awarded one of Kenya's most prestigious awards for his sacrifice.

"He died defending people who he did not know," Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said in April 2016, speaking of the victim, Salah Farah.

"This is because he believed in their right to freedom of worship and he knew that every single life  irrespective of faith  is sacred."

Al-Shabaab has sought to continue the viciousness of its attacks in 2017 as well.

The Independent reported that at least 31 civilians were killed, while nearly 40 others were injured, when the Islamic extremists opened fire at a popular Somalia restaurant in Mogadishu on Wednesday evening.

The terrorists apparently shot victims point-blank during the overnight siege, before they were killed by security forces arriving on the scene.

Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed condemned al-Shabaab's attacks during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, noting that it is "a time of spiritual reflection and increased piety, which makes the timing of this attack all the more atrocious."

This article was originally published in The Christian Post.
New stats say 1 in 5 teens are 'active Christians'  but do the numbers really add up?

When something seems too good to be true, it's probably because it is. As reported by the Daily Telegraph at the weekend, a new piece of research suggests that 21 per cent of young people (aged between 11 and 18) describe themselves at 'active followers of Jesus'. And while that is a wonderful idea, and one that all of us involved in youth ministry hope and pray for, I'm afraid it definitely doesn't ring true. One of the team behind the research was quoted as being 'shocked' by the results, and said 'there was disbelief among the team because [that number] was so high'. It's a remarkably honest sentiment, and one I share.

The problem is that the reality on the ground doesn't match up with that number at all, or with the claim that 13 per cent of teens are 'practising Christians' who attend church once a month, and pray and read the Bible once a week. As an example: there are 22,000 teenagers in Luton, where I work. According to these numbers, 2,860 of them would be found in church, at least on the occasional Sunday, and reading their Bibles every week. Even more than that number  4,620 of them  would be coming on to our radar as 'active followers of Jesus' as we work in the town's schools, on the streets and in our community hub.

Let me give you the brutal truth: I'd estimate the reality to be less than a quarter of those numbers. And while Luton is hardly in the UK's Bible Belt (if such a thing even exists), those percentages don't fly in Surrey, where I live and attend church, either.

If 13 per cent of young people were practising Christians, they'd start a revolution in their culture. They'd probably represent the largest single interest group, and the biggest cultural tribe, among teens in the UK. They'd almost certainly have the critical mass required for a bona fide revival in their age group. And if that many teenagers were attending church every month, our youth groups would be burgeoning, and our church leaders would all be wrestling with the challenge of how to incorporate, involve and keep hold of all these kids. They're not.

So what's going on? Hope Revolution, which commissioned the research, certainly isn't trying to mislead anyone. So perhaps the truth  assuming that ComRes managed to find a truly reflective sample  is that the survey didn't quite enable the young people interviewed to explain themselves properly. Or at least, that the bar for 'active follower of Jesus' in our culture is so low that 21 per cent of teenagers really do think they qualify as one.

Surely an active follower is one who puts Christ's teachings at the heart of their life. Sometimes they wake up thinking about him, while prayer, reading the Bible and acts of social justice are part of the everyday, as is telling their friends about him. They might not attend church, but they're almost certainly supported by some kind of community of faith. That's what active Christ-followership generally looks like. If a young person can be an active follower of Jesus by liking a few of his quotes on Instagram, and feeling a bit reflective when they walk around an old church, then we've got even bigger problems than we thought. Although perhaps part of the issue is the lack of discernible difference they see in the lives of adults who call themselves 'active followers of Jesus'...

I can only react to this research on the basis of my experience, which is that while undoubtedly there are many wonderful young teenagers who really do actively pursue Jesus daily, they are a small minority. Every day I meet the overwhelmingly vast majority, and while they might not be negative about Jesus, or even think he's got some interesting things to say for himself, they're not following him. In fact, many of them aren't even asking the classic 'apologetics' questions any more. Even the people behind the research  great youth workers who I've known for years  are aware of this.

There is good news in these figures however, but perhaps it's a stage back from the Telegraph's claim. If this many young people called themselves Christians, then that number is almost certainly receptive to the faith at least. And when you dive down deeper into the data, 16 per cent of young people said they wanted to hear more about Jesus, and 56 per cent said they'd be comfortable with being told about another person's faith. Those are really encouraging statistics which should embolden our youth evangelism  especially when it's done peer-to-peer. There's a large number of teenagers out there who are essentially waiting for us to tell them about Jesus. But they're not already following him actively.

The Church is faced with a huge challenge in re-engaging young people. If this research in any way allows us to sit back and think that the job is half done, then it's actually pretty dangerous. If however it encourages us that teenagers are receptive to our message, and helps to restore a bit of the Church's lost confidence, then it's a useful rallying cry. Let's just not pretend that we're right in the middle of a youth revival which none of us even noticed.

Martin Saunders is a Contributing Editor for Christian Today and the Deputy CEO of Youthscape. Follow him on Twitter @martinsaunders.
Pope urges German chancellor Merkel to continue the fight on climate change

German chancellor Angela Merkel has said she was encouraged by Pope Francis when the two met to discuss climate change, international cooperation and 'tearing down walls'.

The chancellor met with Pope Francis at the Vatican on Saturday for an extensive, 40-minute private audience.

'The Pope encouraged me to continue and fight for international agreements, including the Paris agreement,' Merkel told reporters.

US president Donald Trump provoked controversy and widespread international criticism this month when he announced the US would be pulling out of the landmark 2015 agreement that united world leaders in the fight against climate change.

'We know that regrettably, the United States is leaving this accord,' Merkel said, according to the Catholic Herald.

Merkel said that the Pope expressed support for the global summit for the major G20 economies which will meet in Hamburg next month. Reflecting on the session, Merkel said: 'This (G20) agenda assumes that we are a part of a world in which we work together through multilateral cooperation.

'It is a world in which we want to tear down walls and not build them, and in which we all seek prosperity, wealth, honour and dignity for mankind.'

The pair also discussed the importance of the international community combatting hunger, poverty and the threat of global terrorism. The Vatican said that the meeting was 'cordial' and included discussion of 'the good relations and fruitful collaboration between the Holy See and Germany', according to Vatican Radio.

As he did with President Trump last month, Francis gave Merkel a copy of 'Laudato Si', the Pontiff's landmark encyclical on the moral imperative to care for God's creation and fight climate change.

Additional reporting by Reuters
South Korean Christian arrested in Pakistan on suspicion of covert missionary work

A South Korean Christian who taught languages to two abducted and murdered Chinese nationals at his school in Pakistan has been arrested.

Police in Pakistan also arrested members of the man's family. He is being accused of training Chinese people to do Christian missionaary work in Pakistan.

The South Korean man's school is in Quetta, southern Pakistan. He had lived in Pakistan for six years.

Li Zingyang, aged 24, and Meng Lisi, 26, were abducted and murdered by Islamic State after it was learned they were using business visas as a cover for missionary work.

They were among about a dozen Chinese people ostensibly studying Urdu and at least one other language at his school.

'The Korean family was training the Chinese nationals in missionary work,' said Quetta police official Abdul Razzaque Cheema told the Pakistan daily newspaper DAWN. 'We have interviewed around 50 people who were in contact with the Chinese and received text messages or calls from them. All of them have corroborated that the Chinese were involved in preaching.'.

Christian Today reported the abduction and murder of the two Chinese last month by armed men posing as police. Islamic State's Amaq news agency reported that the men had been killed by ISIS.

'The minister observed that it is highly unfortunate that a misuse of the terms of (the) business visa contributed to the unfortunate incident of abduction and subsequent murder of two innocent Chinese,' the ministry said then. 'Instead of engaging in any business activity, they went to Quetta and under the garb of learning (the) Urdu language from a Korean national...were actually engaged in preaching.'

The incident prompted calls for review of Pakistan's security and visa processes for Chinese nationals, and a databank that would track Chinese nationals working in Pakistan. China's foriegn ministry previously said it would cooperate with Pakistan in the investigation, and said it opposed all forms of terrorism.
A teenager in Bihar was gangraped by a group of six men in the Lakhisarai district. She has been admitted to a Patna hospital, where her condition is stated to be critical.

The girl is in a Patna hospital where her condition remains critical (Photo: ANI)

By India Today Web Desk: A class X girl is fighting for her life at a Bihar hospital after she was reportedly gangraped by six men in Lakhisarai district.

The girl was abducted after she left her home around midnight on Thursday to defecate in the open.

Initial information about what exactly happened after she was forcibly taken away by the men remained unclear, with some reports saying that she was forced into a railway train, raped and then thrown out of the train at the Kiul station.

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What is known for sure is that she was found near the railway tracks on Friday morning and was taken to a local hospital in Lakhisarai. With her condition critical, she was transferred to the Patna Medical College and Hospital where she is fighting for her life.

A probe into the incident is on with the police saying that the suspects will be arrested soon. Sub-Divisional Police Officer Pankaj Kumar was quoted as saying by news agency ANI, "A group of six men are believed to have been involved in the incident. We are carrying out the investigation and will arrest the accused soon."

The girl's brother, speaking to ANI, said that at least two of the alleged rapists are known to him and that one person has already been arrested in the matter.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar commented on the matter today, calling it a heinous crime. Necessary action is being taken and the accused will not be spared, Nitish added.

(With inputs from Rohit Kumar Singh in Patna)

ALSO READ | Delhi shocker: Rape victim forced to carry body of her child in Metro to Gurgaon

ALSO READ | Bihar: Man invites girlfriend home, only to rape and burn her to death

ALSO WATCH | Nepalese woman jumps off building after gang rape

--- ENDS ---
Vatican draws up plans to excommunicate mafia

The Pope has told a Vatican commission to work on a new process for excommunicating Catholics convicted of corruption or mafia-related crimes.

The move follows his condemnation of corruption in a foreword to a book by Cardinal Peter Turkson, in which Francis described it as 'a form of blasphemy, this cancer that weighs on our lives'.

More than 50 lawyers, bishops, UN representatives and victims of organised crime met at the Vatican last week for an 'International Debate on Corruption'.

Turkson himself said of the gathering: 'We conceived of this meeting to face a phenomenon that leads to the trampling of the dignity of people.

'Therefore it is up to us, and this Dicastery, to be able to protect and promote respect for the dignity of the person. And for this reason we seek to attract attention to this matter.'

Archbishop Silvano Tomasi said: 'Our effort is to create a mentality, a culture of justice, that fights corruption and promotes the common good.'

The move against the mafia marks a step change in Vatican policy, in which involvement in organised crime becomes literally unpardonable because it is a way of life rather than a single sin.

Excommunicated Catholics cannot take communion or be married in church.

Organised crime is entrenched in Italy and in several South American countries including Pope Francis' home of Argentina. Francis has been severely critical of the closeness of the Church to mafia figures, which sees children named after mobster godfathers and religious processions stopping outside the homes of mob bosses as a form of respect.
Why are there still so many creationists in America?

Last month the Gallup polling group released the results of its latest surveys of Americans' beliefs about human origins. Since 1982 they've been asking the same question:

Which of the following statements comes closest to your views on the origin and development of human beings?

1. Human beings have developed over millions of years from less advanced forms of life, but God guided this process.

2. Human beings have developed over millions of years from less advanced forms of life, but God had no part in this process.

3. God created human beings pretty much in their present form at one time within the last 10,000 years or so.

Of course it would be nice to see more options here. Many old earth creationists say God created human beings pretty much in their present form, but 200,000 - 300,000 years ago; which option should they choose? And the line is blurred in option 1 between evolutionary creationists who think God's 'guidance' need not take the form of interventions to fill gaps in the scientific explanation, and Intelligent Design proponents who think such divine interventions are detectable scientifically. Still, it's nice that the same questions have been asked for 35 years so we can see trends in American culture over this time.

The headline for the Gallup press release was 'Belief in Creationist View of Humans at New Low'. For the first time since 1982, the number of American adults selecting option three has dipped below 40 per cent. This is very good news for those of us who work at BioLogos, the most prominent organization defending the evolutionary creation view of human origins. It appears as though our work is having an effect, as the rise in option one was equivalent to the decline in option three over the past three years.

But after this initial good news, what strikes many people in the UK and elsewhere in the world is that there are still almost 40 per cent of Americans who are young earth creationists, holding beliefs that are contradicted by the overwhelming majority of scientists (in a separate poll from 2015, 99 per cent of those with a PhD in biology or medicine affirmed that humans evolved). And when restricted to Americans who attend church weekly, 65 per cent select the young earth creationist option. What accounts for this stunning disconnect between Americans' religious convictions and what science has discovered about our origins?

The reasons are surely multifarious and complex. There is a fascinating study waiting to be done that digs deep into the reasons for how the young earth creationist rhetoric has been so successful over the past 50 years in America. My impression from the people I talk to is that at least the surface reason is that they fear accepting the science of evolution will mean losing confidence in the trustworthiness of Scripture. But there must be more to it than that below the surface, where cultural assumptions and predispositions lie silently and unconfronted, but exerting enormous influence. It is certainly not only American Christians who are so concerned about the trustworthiness of Scripture. Why does that concern come out in this peculiar way in America?

I wonder if it has something to do with our history regarding the separation of Church and State. The Protestant Reformation affected Europe's Christianity momentously, but the major Protestant denominations were still tied to political institutions. A few of the American colonies had state Churches initially, but in 1791 the First Amendment to the Constitution guaranteed the 'free exercise' of religion and prohibited the establishment of a national Church. Some state Churches were immediately abandoned; others lingered on for awhile, but all were eventually eliminated.

That means the practice of religion over here accommodated itself to the democratic populism that fundamentally distrusts authority and experts. And that religious populism was very successful. Historian Mark Noll reports that the population of the United States between 1790 and 1860 grew by a factor of eight, and during this same time adherence to a church grew twice as fast.

The separation of Church and State has certainly had its merits (like the avoidance of the Thirty Years' War), but one of its negative consequences is that there is less accountability for religious belief and practice. Without longstanding institutions and traditions to guide, where does one turn? To the Bible, and the Bible alone  the only authority religious populists accepted.

This is not sola scriptura as the Reformers understood it (which still operated within the history and traditions of the Church). The populist version encourages everyone who can read to 'interpret' the Bible for themselves. I put 'interpret' in scare quotes because there is almost a rejection of the idea that any interpretation is required. The rich and multifaceted approach to Scripture developed by the Church Fathers was reduced in this environment to the literal sense, the plain reading. In the same article Mark Noll quotes from an 1843 issue of The Methodist Quarterly which typifies the approach to Scripture that developed among the populists:

'We claim to be, not only rigid literalists, but unsparing iconoclasts  ruthless demolishers of all theories. We wish to strip the passage of all the superincumbent strata which ingenious men have deposited all round it, and come down to the plainest and most obvious literal reading [of] the text.'

So, if that's how you read the Bible, science is a threat to its trustworthiness because the 'obvious literal reading' seems to say, for example, that the earth is only 6,000 years old and the stars are even younger (Genesis 1:14); that everyone who plays the flute descended from Jubal (Genesis 4:21); and that all humans spoke the same language until about 2000 BC and the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1).

Are there serious ways of reading Scripture that don't force us to accept these plain readings of the text? Many serious scholars of the Bible believe so, but their interpretations take us deep into issues like ancient Near Eastern cultures and cognitive environments. When I speak to church groups about this topic, invariably it gets to the point where someone in the audience throws up his or her hands and asks, 'So in order to read the Bible I'm going to have to get a couple of PhDs?'

I always affirm two points in response to that: 1. Everyone can pick up a Bible and read it profitably. We Christians believe that God speaks to all of us through his Word, not just to the experts. But then 2. We all need experts whom we trust in our communities who can help us read Scripture better. We recognize many fields in which we all have some ability, but some people have much more (eg, auto repair, cooking, knowledge of history); reading the Bible is another of these fields.

The difficulty (especially for populists) is to trust experts while recognizing they are fallible. But that's what we have to do if we want to make sense of the ever-accumulating knowledge in increasingly specialized fields of study. The Bible itself inspired the development of modern science, as Christian natural philosophers were convinced by it that creation was a free and contingent act of a loving God. As such, they couldn't deduce how it worked from some necessary first principles, but had to go out into the world and observe and experiment. Their careful work over the centuries tends toward truth and enriches our view of the world.

We need not fear that science will undermine the trustworthiness of Scripture. Perhaps that message will penetrate American culture more fully and the polling numbers will continue to improve.

Dr Jim Stump is senior editor at Biologos. He has a PhD in philosophy from Boston University and was formerly a philosophy professor and academic administrator.
Bill C-6 to Become Law on June 19, Changing Canadas Citizenship Act Hugo O'Doherty Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif

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We want all permanent residents, if possible, to become Canadians, said Canadas Immigration Minister, Ahmed Hussen, at a recent conference in Toronto, and now the process will become quicker and simpler for immigrants to the country. Bill C-6  which, among other changes, will decrease the amount of time new immigrants have to wait before becoming eligible to obtain Canadian citizenship  is scheduled to receive Royal Assent this evening (June 19), the final step before the bill may become law. (Note: Since this article was first published, C-6 has passed into law. Click here to learn more.)

Under the new law, immigrants will now have to accumulate 1,095 days, or three years, within a five-year period before being eligible for citizenship, instead of the 1,460 days required within six years under the previous act. This provision had been brought in by the previous Conservative government in June, 2014.

C-6 will also:

Allow permanent residents who had spent time in Canada on temporary status, such as on a work or study permit, to count up to 365 days of this temporary status towards the residency requirement.

Remove the intent to reside provision, which previously required new citizens to state that they intended to reside in Canada.

Eliminate the governments ability to revoke citizenship from naturalized citizens who hold dual citizenship on national security grounds, which the now-governing Liberals had said created a two-tiered citizenship system when in opposition.

Permit children under the age of 18 to apply for citizenship without the support or consent of their parents.

Give individuals who lost their citizenship on the grounds that it was obtained fraudulently the right to appeal that decision in Federal Court.

Though C-6 is scheduled to receive Royal Assent on June 19, it remains to be seen when the government may bring into force certain clauses contained within the bill. These may be brought into force at a later date.

Canadian citizenship

Citizens of Canada obtain all of the rights and responsibilities that come with this status, including political rights, such as the right to vote and stand for office, as well as residency rights, without the need to accumulate days of residency in Canada (a requirement for permanent residents who wish to retain that status). In addition, Canadian citizens may apply for a Canadian passport, one of the most valuable passports globally.

C-6 will finally be law

Having first been passed by the House of Commons 12 months ago, many immigrants and their families have been waiting patiently for C-6 to receive Royal Assent, the final step in a bill becoming law.

After passing through the House, the bill was read in the Senate, which passed amendments to the initial text and successfully put it to a vote. The House, which has a Liberal majority, accepted two of the three amendments, covering the juvenile eligibility provision and the appeal process mentioned above, after which the bill returned to the Senate and passed once again.

A third amendment initially passed in the Senate, which would have changed the age requirements for immigrants to prove language ability and knowledge of Canada, was not supported by the government, and will therefore not be included in the bill that will receive Royal Assent on June 19. Under the new law, applicants aged 18 to 54 will be required to prove language ability and knowledge of Canada.

The Governor General of Canada, David Johnston, is scheduled to grant Royal Assent to C-6, among other important bills, at 7 p.m. EST in the Senate Chamber on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. The bill will therefore become law before Parliaments summer break, which begins later this week.

A new law, a new calculator

With C-6 to become law on June 19, readers can find out if they are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship under the new law by completing the CanadaVisa Citizenship Calculator.

CICNews.com expects to publish a follow-up article on this subject when C-6 becomes law.

To find out more about applying for Canadian citizenship in light of the proposed changes to the Citizenship Act, please send an email to citizenship@canadavisa.com. Please include information about your time as a Canadian permanent resident, as well as any information about previous time spend in Canada with temporary status.

To find out if you are eligible to immigrate to Canada through one of the currently available programs, please fill out a free online assessment today.

 2017 CICNews All Rights Reserved
The British Red Cross is stepping up its involvement and is co-ordinating support for those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire, after the Prime Minister admitted that the initial response to the tragedy was not good enough.

Theresa May said in a statement on Saturday following the fire which broke out in the tower block in the early hours of Wednesday morning that the support on the ground for families who needed help or basic information in the initial hours after this appalling disaster was not good enough.

She said that there has been huge frustrations that people do not know who to talk to, that they cant get through on the council hotlines.

I have heard the concerns and I have ordered immediate action across the board to help victims relatives and the survivors.

As a result, she said that she has ordered that more staff be deployed across the area, wearing high visibility clothing, so they can easily be found, dispense advice and ensure the right support is provided. Phone lines will have more staff.

She said that immediate psychological support for victims and their families would be provided by bereavement charity Cruse and the Red Cross.

'Central point'

The British Red Cross has said that its support line is now the central point of info for all people affected and will be able to direct people to the help they need.

In a series of tweets yesterday the British Red Cross said it was stepping up its role.

It said: The new joint London team now running the response operation has asked us to provide more support on the ground. We will be helping to coordinate the community assistance centre at Westway, distributing donations and increasing our support.

Our support line is now the central point of info for all people affected and will be able to direct people to the help they need. The Red Cross operates on the principles of neutrality and impartiality, to provide humanitarian help to anyone who needs it.

Mike Adamson, the charity's chief executive, said: "The British Red Cross has been actively helping those affected by this horrendous tragedy since the early hours of Wednesday morning. Our emergency response volunteers have been stationed within the rest centre and are providing both practical and emotional support to people in crisis.

"We will now step up to use our expertise in delivering humanitarian aid to support the establishment and running of a full-service community assistance centre, as well as to help with the donations given by the compassionate public. We will also help to enhance the psychosocial support available, and we are providing a dedicated helpline for people affected."

Charity Commission in talks over future responses to incidents

The Charity Commission has said it is advising the public to continue giving to registered charities through established appeals in order to support victims on the ground.

It said it is working with charities involved, as well as the key online giving platforms, to help them coordinate their response, and ensuring that victims know how to access help.

It said it had been in talks with sector leaders to discuss ways of ensuring a coordinated response in the event of future tragedies.

David Holdsworth, registrar of charities for England and Wales and chief operating officer at the Charity Commission, said: Those who have suffered in this horrendous tragedy are entitled to feel confident that the funds raised in their name reaches them and their community now, and in the weeks, months and years ahead.

Looking further ahead, we have begun early talks with established charities with experience of responding to disasters to consider ways of ensuring a coordinated, swift, expert response if and when there are further tragedies. We will be looking to convene sector leaders as a matter of urgency when we have all been able to provide the immediate help and support that is required in West London.

Police confirmed today that the number of people dead or missing presumed dead after has risen to 79, adding that that figure may still change.

Last week the British Red Cross opened a London Fire Relief Fund on the request of the Kensington and Chelsea council to raise money to support those affected by the fire.

A seperate fund launched by the Evening Standard and raising money through the London Community Foundation had raised 2.2m in two days, while JustGiving pages to support victims of the fire had raised 1.6m by Thursday, the online giving platform has said.

May had announced on Friday that each household whose home has been destroyed as a result of the fire will receive a guaranteed 5,500 minimum down payment from the 5m Grenfell Tower Residents Discretionary Fund.

Of this, 500 will be a cash payment and 5,000 will be delivered through the Department of Work and Pensions into banks accounts in a single payment.

Mind receives grant to support emergency services

An additional 1.5m from this fund will also be used to pay for mental health support for the Emergency Services through Minds Blue Light Programme.

Faye McGuinness, Blue Light programme manager at Mind, said: Were grateful for this additional funding, which will allow us to continue delivering mental health support to our hard-working emergency services staff and volunteers. As recent events have brought to light, Blue Light workers do an extremely challenging job day in, day out, frequently encountering difficult and traumatic situations.

But theyre not immune to mental health problems  in fact, our own research has found over 9 in 10 emergency services workers have experienced stress, low mood or poor mental health while working for the emergency services, and over one in four admitted that this had caused them to contemplate suicide. Thats why its so important that comprehensive, ongoing mental health support is available.
LAST WEEK, Voxs Congressional reporter Jeff Stein posted photos of the front pages of the Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal to Twitter. Nothing about GOP health bill today on the front pages of any of 4 of Americas most influential newspapers, he tweeted. He followed with another photo, from CNN.com, where he counted 24 headlines. Only oneClosed-door drama of GOP health care talksreferred to the AHCA.

Nothing about GOP health bill today on the front pages of any of 4 of America's most influential papers  LA Times; NYT; WashPo; WSJ pic.twitter.com/p85FbL0vDl  Jeff Stein (@JStein_Vox) June 13, 2017

The previous day, Stein had posted an image of a line graph that showed surges in coverage of the American Health Care Act. He observed two upticks in coverage, tied to the Houses first AHCA vote in March and its second, successful vote in May.

Why activists are so worried about flagging coverage of health bill. Big spike b4 1st vote, then again post-House passage. Now: nothing pic.twitter.com/GYmj8wDyHv  Jeff Stein (@JStein_Vox) June 12, 2017

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Steins posts underscore a major challenge facing resource-strapped health care journalists: how best to cover a critical piece of legislation that remains, in many ways, a moving target.

Many health care journalists outside the Beltway may be tempted to follow the lead of Washington reporters, who are closer to the daily tick-tock of policy discussions. However, for local and regional reporters, health care journalism is also particular to the evolving health needs of the communities they cover. What Washington journalists report is not necessarily what audiences in the rest of the country wantor needto know.

TRENDING: Viral story shows media needs to play better defense

NEWSROOMS AROUND THE COUNTRY have received letters calling for clarity on the AHCAs impact. Editors at several newspapers recently told CJR that they receive more letters raising concerns or questions about health care than any other topic. The Joplin Globe, the lone daily newspaper in southwest Missouris Jasper County, recently published a letter from a resident who traveled to Springfield to discuss her communitys specific concerns:

If passed in its current form, and if Missouri opts out of it (which history indicates is very likely), it would leave thousands of Missourians who currently have access to health care without it. Missourians with pre-existing conditions would be thrown into inadequately funded high-risk pools, which would mean theyd end up with no means to pay for health care (no insurance). And for some of us who rely on life-saving treatments, no insurance coverage could mean premature death.

The concerns and personal narratives those letters contain can yield important local and regional stories. I received a letter from a woman in Michigan whose 89-year-old mother lives in an assisted living facility. Medicaid pays for about half of all nursing home stays in the country, as well as some home- and community-based services provided under special waivers. If the federal government rolls back the Affordable Care Act and cuts funding to the states, theres likely to be less money for long-term care.

The woman described her concern that neither she nor her mother could afford to sustain her mothers care. Ive heard about the same problemthe necessity of long-term care against the affordability of itmore than once from readers.

The New York Times recently published an op-ed by three professorstwo specialists in health policy and one in economicsabout the same long-term care problem:

Imagine your mother needs to move into a nursing home. Its going to cost her almost $100,000 a year. Very few people have private insurance to cover this. Your mother will most likely run out her savings until she qualifies for Medicaid.

The op-ed begins to differentiate the groups that Medicaid cuts would impacta first step towards localizing coverage. Much focus has rightly been placed on the enormous damage this would do to lower-income families and youth, the authors write. But what has been largely missing from public discussion is the radical implications that such cuts would have for older and disabled Americans.

Those implications are also missing from many news stories: Theres virtually no reporting on how America lacks a program to pay for long-term care.

HEALTH COVERAGE THAT MERELY TRACKS the Beltway drama of the AHCA risks overlooking the diverse and nuanced health needs of cities and counties. As they watch DC from a distance, more health reporters need to scrutinize their own communities needs, and use local concerns to shape their coverage.

Last week, 50 reporters from 18 states attended a rural health workshop sponsored by the Association of Health Care Journalists. At the event, Laura Ungar, a longtime health reporter for the Louisville Courier-Journal and USA Today, spoke about her coverage of disparate cancer rates in American communities. A source at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention told Ungar that every state and locality has different resources available. At the event, Ungar told reporters that cultural factors also contribute to health issues that differ across communities: During her reporting, Ungar found a 50-year-old woman who hadnt had a Pap smear since her last child was born. Another, who was 55, has had only one Pap smear in her life, wrote Ungar.

Ungar told reporters that she sees four forces contributing to poor health outcomes in rural communities: poverty, health behaviors, access to services and providers, and political will.

4 causes of poor rural health, says @laura_ungar: Poverty, behaviors, dr shortages, & lack of govt will. @healthreporters #AHCJruralhealth  Shari Rudavsky (@srudavsky) June 9, 2017

She also mentioned a few stories in which she examined how those forces work in specific communities. For instance, in Floyd County, Kentucky, Ungar anticipated what might happen if the states progress in providing unprecedented access to one of the nations poorest and most vulnerable communities disappears. Her story is a template for other community-focused reporters to use in states where governors seek to change Medicaid programs before larger changes trickle down from the GOP health legislation.

Ungar spoke at a panel called Finding Rural Health Stories, for which I was also a panelist. At the end of our discussion, a reporter in the audience asked raised the persistent, and perhaps inevitable, question: how to cover the American Health Care Act without knowing its finer details.

Heres what we suggested: List each major component of the American Health Care Act. (Need a few? Start with Medicaid, rules governing pre-existing conditions, subsidies for buying Obamacare policies, state high-risk pools, taxes, insurance rates.) Then, for each component, list what you know is proposed under the House bill. Find the people in your community who those proposals will affect and, as the AHCA legislation evolves, track the evolving impact for your community.

A communitys health needs are as distinct as a fingerprint. Knowing their whorls will help reporters trace the impact of the AHCA down the road.

ICYMI: What a hyperlocal investigative powerhouse looks like

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Trudy Lieberman is a longtime contributing editor to the Columbia Journalism Review. She is the lead writer for CJR's Covering the Health Care Fight. She also blogs for Health News Review and the Center for Health Journalism. Follow her on Twitter @Trudy_Lieberman.
06/19/2017

Even a superficial look at Young Pioneer Tours, the people who brought American college student Otto Warmbier to North Korea, raises serious questions about the practices of the company that advertises "budget travel to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from."

Warmbier was detained while trying to leave North Korea at the end of his trip with Young Pioneer Tours and imprisoned last year. The regime returned Warmbier to his parents last week with severe brain damage.



On the Young Pioneer Tours website, only a few of the many seemingly innocuous activities that the United States Department of State warns could send tourists to prison in North Korea are explicitly described as illegal. Young Pioneer Tours urges customers not to engage in a political debate with their North Korean tour guides, for example, because their beliefs are important to them. It also warns that customers should not take photographs of locals without permission because it may be considered discourteous. But the risk of prison time or hard labor goes unmentioned.

"Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on earth to visit," the website says. "We have never felt suspicious or threatened at any time.

The companys public behavior after Warmbier was detained, as seen in news reports and social media posts, indicates more grounds for concern. In January 2016, after the press learned that Warmbier had been arrested, but before he had been formally charged with a crime, Young Pioneer Tours leader Charlotte Guttridge gave an interview that appeared to incriminate the American college student.



"What happened, happened at the hotel and my belief is that Otto kept it to himself out of hope it might go unnoticed," Guttridge told Reuters.

A culture of drinking while Warmbier was detained

Gareth Johnson is a 36-year-old British entrepreneur and tour guide who identifies himself as the founder of Young Pioneer Tours. In previous interviews and his social media accounts, he portrays himself as a hard-partying adventurer. He briefly put on a more serious face after Warmbier's arrest, telling Reuters last year that "I stayed back [in North Korea] when I heard Otto had been detained in order to help Warmbier, or in his words, to try and work out what the situation was.

But a photograph from Gareth Johnsons Instagram account dated January 11, 2016, barely a week after Warmbier had been detained, does not show Johnson engaging in negotiations or diplomacy. Instead, the photograph depicts Johnson in North Korea cuddling with a bottle of clear liquor. Warmbier had been arrested only nine days before Johnson published that image of himself and his liquor bottle.



And an Instagram post on Johnson's account dated January 10, 2016, only eight days after Warmbier had been detained, shows a Caucasian man, though it's not clear who, standing in a train station while not wearing any pants. The photograph is described with the hashtag, #NorthKorea.

In an email statement. Young Pioneer Tours spokesman Rowan Beard said the photograph was taken of a customer in China. "This particular tourist is wearing rugby shorts and his winter coat to take a fun photo of braving the cold in North East of China in February. We remember the guest in question, and he was not intoxicated," Beard writes.

But drinking is a common theme throughout the Instagram pages belonging to Johnson and Young Pioneer Tours. Numerous photographs show Johnson or other tour guides drinking whiskey straight from the bottle, images that wouldnt be concerning had the guides not been entrusted with leading tourists around a country that can be openly hostile to foreigners.



Behind the surface, the story is much worse, according to a former Young Pioneer Tours customer. A man who provided evidence that he traveled with the company to North Korea in 2013 tells ConsumerAffairs that he was almost detained with the rest of his Young Pioneer Tours group on their train ride home, as they tried to return to China.

The customer says the company's founder Gareth Johnson was so drunk throughout the trip that he placed the group he was guiding in serious danger, particularly during that train ride. The customer says that North Korean guards at the border ordered the Young Pioneer Tours group off the train, until Johnson paid the guards cash bribes. I'm sure people will say that the guards were never going to take us off the train, but then Otto was never going to be detained in their eyes, the customer named Adam Pitt reflects now.

Adam Pitt's trip to North Korea

Pitt is a 33-year-old British national who currently lives and works in Dubai. He booked a trip through Young Pioneer Tours to North Korea for February 2013. He wanted to visit out of curiosity. I'm also a believer that things are not always as they seem, Pitt writes via email, and wanted to visit to get as much of an insight into the country as anyone can, but I don't consider myself to be naive.



Shortly before the trip, Young Pioneer Tours emailed Pitt and his fellow tourists a preparation list. The email, which Pitt forwarded to ConsumerAffairs, focuses heavily on payment. Less detail is paid to the countrys repressive laws. E-books are fine, and normal books are OK as long as it's not a Bible, Qur'an or any other religious text, says the Young Pioneer Tours email, signed off by an unidentified employee. Books on North Korea are OK as long as they are not critical of the country. The Brandt guide is often brought and is fine, as is Lonely Planet's guide. The Department of State urges much more caution, warning tourists that possessing any media deemed critical of the country is considered a crime punishable by hard labor.



In their preparation email, Young Pioneer Tours also advises their customers that local tour guides expect a tip of 7 Euros per day and a welcome gift of 10 Euros. The North Korean guides also appreciate if tourists spend an additional 2 Euros on flowers that are for sale at national monuments. A pint of draft beer at the hotel bar costs 22 China RMPs, "although bottled beers in the bowling alley, billiards room or shop are only around 10RMB," the email says.

Already, it is clear that drinking is a major component of the trip. For your spending money in the DPRK, it depends on how much you would like to drink and how many gifts you want to buy, the email says.

Along with the company email, Pitt also shared with ConsumerAffairs photographs from his visit and a Visa application form confirming that he had applied to enter North Korea in 2013.

Drinking heavily

Adam Pitt says he does not drink, in accordance with his Mormon beliefs, making him one of the few odd tourists out on the trip. His tour guide, he says, was none other than company founder Gareth Johnson. Gareth was pretty much blind drunk the whole time we were in the country, Pitt writes to ConsumerAffairs. The customers also drank heavily, he recalls, so Pitt instead spent time with a tourist who had quit drinking and with the local guides in the evening. Most of the drinking took place in the hotel, he says.



The trip itself was uneventful, with some notable exceptions. The hotel had a habit of ending services shortly after people purchased them. But the locals were surprisingly friendly. "...there are good people there. Families that are genuinely doing what they can with the hand they've been dealt," Pitt writes. "The people I met are more aware than we give them credit for.



But in one disturbing instance, Pitt recalls, the tourists on his Young Pioneer Tours group began making sexually provocative remarks to their local guide, asking the woman "about her sexual habits and about North Korean women being a conquest."

Johnson did nothing" to stop his customers from making demeaning remarks to the woman," Pitt writes. "If anything, he encouraged these kinds of conversations, Pitt says. Had our tour guide taken exception to this, almost anyone in our group could have found themselves in serious trouble.



The trip home, Pitt says, is where the more frightening troubles began. On the groups train ride back to Beijing, people again started drinking. By the time they reached the border crossing, Pitt recalls that Johnson was so drunk that he was almost unable to stand and barely understandable when he did speak.

Same guards, different attitude

North Korean guards stepped onto the tourists' train at the border crossing on their way out of the country. They were there to do a search for any illegal material, just as the guards had done on the tour group's way into the country. But the guards attitude during this departure search was much different, Pitt recalls. It was the same guards that we saw on the way in. But a very different mentality," he writes. "It felt as if this time, the guards were searching harder to find illegal photographs or other material," Pitt says.

Group leader Johnson was still drinking when the guards boarded the train, Pitt says, leaving the people sitting at the front on their own as their belongings were searched. Suddenly, the guards became angry.

Naturally, we didn't know what they were saying, but then they [the guards] started to get quite angry about something and somehow managed to communicate that the person should delete their photos, Pitt writes.



Pitt says Johnson finally intervened as the officials searched more passengers, but the guards attitude did not soften. What was even more worrying is that whatever he was saying to them wasn't working this time. The guards were angry about something and the status he had led us to believe he had with them suddenly vanished.



Johnson, Pitt says, then stuffed a wad of cash into one guards hands. It didnt work. The guard then seemed to signal to us all to get off the train. Gareth seemed absolutely clueless," Pitt writes.



The tense encounter was brief, Pitt says, but felt like an eternity before Johnson resolved it. Eventually, we didn't have to get off the train. Gareth increased the amount of money in his hand. Words were exchanged, and that was that.



Now reading news reports about Warmbiers arrest and condition, Pitt questions why no tour guides were present to witness the college student's detainment. The Daily Mail quoted his roommate as saying he was the only person to see Otto being detained.... where were the Young Pioneer Tour guides? Pitt writes. In interviews, Warmbier's former roommate also told the media that he doubts Warmbier even attempted to steal a poster, as the North Korean government claimed he did. Warmbier's father has also insisted in news interviews that Warmbier's confession was coerced.



I'm speaking out now, because I want people to know that North Korea is not a budget destination, Pitt adds. It's not a place where you cut costs, and it's not a place where you want to take risks when it comes to putting your trust in someone who cares more about money and the status of being a North Korean travel guide than he does about your safety.



Johnson has not returned multiple messages left by ConsumerAffairs, but another Young Pioneer Tours guide, Rowan Beard, responds in an email that Pitt "rarely interacted" with the rest of his tour group during the trip. "There were actually two YPT guides present throughout the trip, and our tourists do drink beer but not excessively. This may simply be the perception of a non drinker," Beard tells ConsumerAffairs.

He disputes Pitt's account of the group nearly getting detained at the border crossing. "On the way back into China, the border crossing went extremely smoothly with most tourists not even having their bags checked at all. We cross from Dandong to Sinuiju on the train at 10:00am in the morning, and 3:00pm in the afternoon on the way back into China. At no point was anyone 'nearly detained' in anyway shape or manner."
Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven has reported a busy spring with four cruise ships.

The AIDAvita led the way, drydocking at the end of March for the first time in the shipyards big Kaiserdock II for 10 days before the start of a new season.

Regular routine technical classification and maintenance work was carried out by Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven personnel on the 203-meter long cruise ship, built in Wismar in 2002. There were also numerous jobs for completion in the vessels public areas, many of which were renovated by AIDA Cruises itself. Lloyd Werfts personnel were on hand here to provide technical support to the owner.

During her time in drydock at the yard, the jobs on the ship included new coating - a task which required about 9,000 liters of paint. The ships bow thrusters and both of her propeller drives were inspected as were her stabilizers. The ships davits were inspected and the lifeboats underwent servicing at the Fassmer Shipyard in Berne at the same time.

Almost simultaneously, the 135.1-meter long Minerva underwent general maintenance and class work in Floating Dock III.

Built at the Mariotti Shipyard in Genoa in 1996, she is not unknown at Lloyd Werft: five years ago the yard installed an additional deck with a lounge on the ship, built new suites and added balconies to many of her cabins. To reduce fuel consumption the yard also installed a Promas plant from Rolls Royce to optimize below surface water flow.

Another familiar face at the yard in April was the expedition cruise ship National Geographic Explorer, which was paying her fifth docking visit to Bremerhaven. The 112-meter long ship, belonging to Lindblad Expeditions, arrived after a voyage of several weeks from the Antarctic for routine maintenance and class work. It was carried out by Lloyd Werft personnel in the Floating Dock VI of neighboring German Dry Docks (GDD) in the Kaiserhafen 1.

That ice-strengthened ship was built in 1982 in Norway as the Midnatsol for Hurtigruten for service on the route between Bergen and Northern Norway. After a first big conversion 29 years ago in Bremerhaven the ship was converted again in 2007 in Gothenburg into a cruise ship, getting, among other things, 69 outside cabins and 12 balcony cabins for a total 148 passengers. These days the Bahamas-flag ship operates in some of the most remote regions of the world.

Plantours Kreuzfahrten of Bremen also operates its cruise ship away from the usual routes plied by the big companies. Upon completion of a western Europe cruise, Plantours 144-meter long Hamburg headed for Bremerhaven to discharge about 350 guests at the Columbus Cruise Center on April 26. She then headed straight into dock for maintenance and class work. Because the docks were booked, this job was also carried out in Floating Dock 5 at German Dry Docks - but by specialists from Lloyd Werft.

The ship was built in Wismar in 1997 as the C. Columbus and served for many years with Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten.

The shipyard, which is owned by the Malaysian Genting Group since 2015, has specialized in the building and conversion of yachts and special prototype vessels as well as in the conversion of cruise ships.

Classical repair business for cargo ships is no longer carried out but the yards docks are regularly utilized by neighboring German Dry Docks for work on other ship types.

"With our trim and powerful team we are well placed to tackle upcoming projects," said a spokesperson for the Lloyd Werft management.

One such project has been another docking of Germanys biggest research ship Polarstern operated by the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research. The ships latest overhaul at the yard, which lasted until May 24, marked her 66th drydocking for work by Lloyd Werfts experienced team since the research ship was built in 1982.

Preparations continue meanwhile at Lloyd Werft for upcoming late summer projects. As well as a second big yard stay for Polarstern in the fall, the 1995-built Crystal Symphony is expected for conversion at Lloyd Werft between mid September and October 20. The initial preparations for the conversion work will begin on September 19 when the ship begins her journey to Bremerhaven after ending a cruise in Lisbon.

During the four week conversion period the ship will not only get two new restaurants. Also created on board will be the technical pre-requisites for the introduction of free WLAN. In addition some of the cabins in the ships luxury penthouse suites will be converted, such that the passenger capacity will be reduced to 848.

Elsewhere, intensive preparations are underway at the yard for a contract to build a new yacht, work on which will start at the beginning of 2018 in Floating Dock III. This newbuilding, for delivery in 2020 to an unidentified customer, will ensure a good workload.

Last but not least, Lloyd Werfts Design Center also reports a good work load. The centers approximately 70 employees are occupied not just with design work in conjunction with the new yacht contract, they have also won orders for the production of wide-ranging designs for other yacht newbuilds and specialized ships.
The man has been arrested on the basis of the woman's statement that she gave to the police in hospital before she succumbed to her injuries.

The accused was arrested on the basis of statement the victim gave to the police moments before her death.

By India Today Web Desk: She wanted to spend the rest of her life with the man she loved. But the man only had lust in his mind. A man invited her girlfriend home, then raped and burnt alive to death in Bihar's Khagaria district.

The man has been arrested on the basis of the woman's statement that she gave to the police in hospital before she succumbed to her injuries.

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THE SINISTER PLOT

Bhawani Shankar, a resident of Temtha village in Parbatta, Khagaria, and the victim were in a relationship since past few months, a report in Hindi daily Hindustan said.

The woman had been pressuring Shankar to marry her but he refused to oblige on some pretext or the other.

On Saturday evening, Shankar called the woman home to discuss something 'important'. He raped her and then went to the other room where his mother was sleeping. Shankar told her mother that the woman had barged into their house.

She was then thrown out of the house.

The next morning, Bhawani Shankar reached her girlfriend's house. She was alone. He dragged the woman into the bathroom, poured kerosene and burnt her alive.

Shankar fled from the spot as the victim screamed in pain. When the neighbours rushed to the house they found the woman burning. She was taken to a local hospital and the police was informed about the incident.

Lying on the hospital bed, writhing in pain, the victim revealed all to the police. She told the police how Shankar used to exploit her physically while promising marriage.

A joint team of Parbatta and Naugachia police has arrested Bhawani Shankar from Jhandapur.

ALSO READ:

Daughter slaughters mother into pieces over illicit relationship, dumps body parts along railtrack in Bihar

If you hurt my daughter, I kill you: Kanpur woman clubbed Samajwadi leader to death, hubby helped dump body

Varanasi: Mother kills daughter to hide her extra-marital relationship, had killed niece 9 years ago

Man drowns girlfriend in waterfall; arrested

ALSO WATCH: Bathinda shocker: Woman kills grandchildren in bid to ward off evil spirits

--- ENDS ---
The BJP may authorise party president Amit Shah to take a call on NDA's presidential candidate.

By India Today Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today attended the BJP's Parliamentary Board meeting at the party headquarters called to discuss and select the party's candidate for the July 17 presidential election.

Besides Modi and Shah, Union Ministers Sushma Swaraj, Rajnath Singh, Ananth Kumar, M Venkaiah Naidu and several top leaders are present at the party office for the meeting of the party's highest decision-making body.

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According to informed sources, the board members would be briefed about the consultations held by the three-member party committee formed to evolve consensus with the opposition.

It is not clear whether the board will announce its candidate today, as a party leader said it may authorise Shah to take a call.

The Board members were briefed about the consultation undertaken by a three-member party committee with allies and opposition parties.

The committee members included union ministers Rajnath Singh, M Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley, who are also the members of the Board.

Amit Shah met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence in Mumbai on Sunday.

Shah, along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, visited Thackeray's residence Matoshree and held a close-door meeting, which started which lasted for nearly 75 minutes.

Shiv Sena, which has often been critical of the BJP and the Modi government, recently suggested the name of M S Swaminathan, the father of India's Green Revolution, as its presidential choice.

The Shiv Sena had earlier said it may choose an 'independent' path in the election to the highest constitutional office. It had backed Congress nominees - Pratibha Patil and Pranab Mukherjee - in the last two presidential elections.

ALSO READ:

AAP crisis: Okhla MLA Amanatullah to submit proof against 'BJP agent' Kumar Vishwas in 10 days

Himachal BJP launches campaign for change

ALSO WATCH:

Mizoram: Beef feast organised amid Rajnath Singh's visit

--- ENDS ---
As many as 16 mobile phones, three laptops and two LCD screens have been recovered from their den. The arrests were made from a guest house in Civil Lines.

By Tanseem Haider: The police arrested three bookies from north Delhi on Monday for betting on the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 final between India, Pakistan that was held on Sunday.

As many as 16 mobile phones, three laptops and two LCD screens have been recovered from their den.

The arrests were made from a guest house situated in Civil Lines. The accused have been identified as Nitin Grover, Nitin Arora and Rajesh.

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HOW THEY WORKED

They always carried their business from a hotel room or a guest house in posh localities.

During the match, the accused persons would open their betting bookings and receive bets on calls from unknown people called 'punters' (alias for betters).

The rates of the match were given through 'dabba' or a live mobile phone line.

The police also recovered 10 dabba phones from the accused persons.

More details awaited.

--- ENDS ---
Oilex , the oil and gas exploration and production company announced Monday "material progress" having received outstanding cash calls of approximately $1.41m gross owed to the Cambay and Bhandut production sharing contracts (PSCs).

The joint-ventures received cash calls equivalent to $1.41m gross during the current quarter-to-date from its joint venture partner, the company said in a statement.

A cash call balance equivalent to $5.68m for the Cambay and Bhandut PSCs remained outstanding.

Oilex said it was maintaining a constructive dialogue with its joint-venture partner to resolve the remaining balances.

"We continue to work closely with our partner and are pleased with the progress in resolving outstanding cash calls. We look forward to further cooperation with our Indian partner and the Government of India in pursing the development of the Cambay project" said Jonathan Salomon, Managing Director of Oilex.

In 2005, Oilex inked a deal with the Cambay Field Joint Venture comprising Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation and Niko Resources to acquire a 30% participating interest in the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) which covers the Cambay Field.

Having acquired an additional 15% equity interest from Niko, Oilex now holds a 45% participating interest in the Cambay PSC.

Shares in Oilex were 40% higher to 0.29p as of 1621 BST.
Xtract Resources announced on Monday that its wholly-owned Mozambican subsidiary, Explorator Limitada , had concluded a mining contractor agreement with Omnia Mining and Moz Gold Group for the exploitation of alluvial gold deposits at its Manica mining concession in Mozambique.

The AIM-traded firm confirmed the experienced alluvial mining contractors, who were already operating in the Manica area, had been appointed to mine the western half of the alluvials in the Manica Concession.

It said the agreement provided for monthly payments against the monthly run-of-mine performance.

Initial mining was to take place - subject to obtaining the environmental impact assessment - no later than 1 September, with a minimum capacity of 220,000 tonnes per month to be achieved by 1 November this year.

The price per tonne would vary according to the installed capacity, the board explained.

It said the run-of-mine payment would be adjusted against the gold price, with a floor price of $1,250 per ounce and a cap of $1,600 per ounce.

Annual production had a target of 2,640,000 tonnes of alluvial materials, with penalties and termination clauses against non-performance.

Assuming a base gold price of $1,250, expected Explorator attributable monthly revenue would be $165,000 from November onwards.

The firm said the initial contract period was for 10 years or to the depletion of alluvials - whichever occurs first - with an option to extend for a further five years if the alluvials were not yet depleted.

The alluvial agreement is a very positive move for Xtract, providing potential significant cash flows with upside based on contractual minimums, said chairman Colin Bird.

We are currently negotiating the eastern half of the concession with other contractors and expect to make an announcement by the end of July 2017.

Bird said the agreement would begin early next week, and the board fully expects to receive some income during the build-up to September.

In the meantime, we have further evaluated the Manica concession and see much potential to value add to our hard rock as well as possible further alluvial mining.

We are also reviewing financing alternatives for the open pit mine and will keep the market informed with our progress.
Brad Pitt got to spend Father's Day this year with his kids.

By India Today Web Desk: Brad Pitt, who is caught up in a battle for custody of his children with former wife Angelina Jolie, got an early Father's Day gift by getting to spend time with their six children.

Together, Jolie and Pitt were raising Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh and twins Vivienne and Knox.

Jolie filed for divorce last September after two years of marriage and a 12-year relationship. The two then got involved in a custody battle over the children, before reaching a temporary custody agreement that Jolie would have their custody while Pitt would have "therapeutic visitation" with them.

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Ahead of Father's Day, their children spent several hours at Pitt's house in Los Angeles on June 17. They later returned to Jolie's home, from where they headed out to take a flight to to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, said reports.

ALSO READ: Has Angelina Jolie moved on from Brad Pitt to a 'British hottie'?

ALSO READ: Brad Pitt finally opens up about alcoholism, divorce with Angelina Jolie and future in Hollywood

ALSO READ: This is what happened between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie on the flight that led to their divorce

ALSO WATCH: Brangelina to Ranbir-Katrina, the worst celebrity splits of 2016

--- ENDS ---
Chancellor Philip Hammond and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney are due to deliver their delayed Mansion House speeches on Tuesday, while company news includes updates from Wolseley and N Brown.

The Mansion House event was rescheduled from last week after the Grenfell Tower disaster and will instead be held as a breakfast event on Tuesday.

Hammond is expected lay out some of his economic plans and push for a new approach in Britain's exit talks with the European Union.

Over the weekend the Chancellor rejected Prime Minister's Theresa May's "no deal is better than a bad deal" mantra and said leaving the EU without a new trade deal in place would be very, very bad for the country, suggesting he may give further detail on his calls for a jobs first Brexit.

Leaked snippets of the speech revealed that the Treasury is working with the European Investment Bank to maintain funding for infrastructure projects while the UK remains inside the economic bloc and bring forward a domestic investment programme.

Company news

FTSE 100 heating and plumbing group Wolseley will issue its third-quarter update for the three months to end-April on Tuesday, with its shares having retreated from close to March's all-time highs at the start of the month.

At March's interims the company said it had seen like-for-like growth in the first two months of the period of about 4.5% for the group and 5.5% for the USA business.

UBS forecast group growth of 4.5%, driven by 6% in the US, expecting quarterly EBITA of 267m.

Broker Numis said currency gains will continue to boost underlying growth in the US market in particular but will continue to lessen as we move through the year.

Analysts suggested key focal points will be the strength of US LFL sales, and offsetting weakness in the UK market plus any news on disposal of the previously announced intention to sell Nordic operations.

"We expect consensus numbers to be maintained, though given FX movements since our last published note on this premise it seems likely that Numis estimates will rise by c3% up to this level.

Clothing retailer N Brown, which is undergoing a digital transformation under chief executive Angela Spindler, will provide an update on its first quarter's trading, following a strong second half for product sales, were their 6% easily offset a 1% fall in financial services.

According to forecasts gathered by the company, the consensus forecast for the quarter is pointing to +5.5% product revenue growth for the quarter and a 3.5% decline in financial services to give+2.5% group revenue growth.

"N Brown has seen a significant turnaround in its performance since the end of April as product sales growth has materially picked up in H2 last year and carried on into early FY18E," said UBS.

"Investor attention will be on the continued performance in Product sales against tougher comparisons as the self-help initiatives from the Fit for the Future IT programme continue to be delivered."

Interim results are also due from RWS Holdings, following an April trading update that said revenue of at least 76m and adjusted PBT of at least 19.0m was expected for the first half of the year.

Numis noted RWS has benefitted from a full period of CTi and one and a half months contribution from Luz, as well as very strong year-on-year translation benefit from foreign exchange movements.

"However, even allowing for these items, we think that these results reflect organic constant currency revenue growth of approaching 10% in the half, well ahead of RWSs long term trend revenue growth of 5%. Profitability has also been good, with organic margins seeming to have expanded somewhat year-on-year," analyst Will Wallis wrote.

Tuesday June 20

INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Current Account (EU) (09:00)

Current Account (US) (13:30)

Producer Price Index (GER) (07:00)

TRADING ANNOUNCEMENT

N Brown Group, Wolseley

INTERIMS

RWS Holdings

SPECIAL EX-DIVIDEND DATE

Alternative Liquidity Fund Limited

EGMS

Tiso Blackstar Group SE (DI)

AGMS

21st Century Technology, BlackRock Emerging Europe, Coca-Cola HBC AG (CDI), Downing Two VCT F Shs , Evraz, Faroe Petroleum, GVC Holdings, Hellenic Telecom Industries SA ADS, Inspired Energy, Marwyn Value Investors Limited, Morses Club , Water Intelligence

FINAL DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE

Hiscox Limited (DI), ICG Enterprise Trust, IFG Group, Non-Standard Finance, Taptica International (DI)

GMS

Hellenic Telecom Industries SA ADS

ANNUAL REPORT

SSE

INTERIM DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE

Income & Growth VCT , Utilitywise plc
As the first official Brexit talks getting underway on Monday morning, there are several possible scenarios for the pound based on where these talks take us.

The talks kick the week off in fairly dramatic fashion with the UK and EU officially beginning negotiations on the divorce.

The big question is what alimony is due, who gets to keep the house and car, and where the kids should live. Its not you its me, Britain is saying. The EU will take its perfidious partner back any time, although with stricter rules. The trust is gone. Some think its better off without an unreliable spouse anyway.

So its in this acrimonious environment that the process begins and that is going to make it tough going for investors looking for clues about whether we get a soft or hard Brexit, something that is between the two, or no Brexit. It would be easier for Britain if it knew what it wanted in the first place.

A CLASSICS LESSON

It is a modern-day Melian dialogue. Britain, as Melos, faces an unpalatable choice: die free or live as slaves. Go it alone in the hope of a free trade deal or seek to live in the single market or customs union  adhering to Athenian rules but not setting them.

Rather like the Melians, it looks as though Britains chief points are more concerned about what it hopes may happen in the future, while its resources are too scanty to tackle the forces ranged against it.

Britain too has agreed to the talks proceeding along the lines laid down by the larger party. And like Athens, the EU has no reason to be generous to these unsubdued islanders whose recklessness endangers its empire.

The EU is likewise worried about subjects who have already become embittered by the constraints which the EU imposes on them. An example must be made.

CONFUSED NEGOTIATING POSITION

Where do we start with this? Ostensibly nothing has altered since May's Lancaster House speech in January  the UK is aiming for a smooth and hard Brexit.

But of course since the election everything has altered.

Phillip Hammond has emerged from his election campaign hibernation to start talking up the importance of getting a deal that is good for jobs and economy.

For this, read a softer Brexit that puts immigration way down the agenda. Even then he is still for leaving the single market and customs union. The picture is confused.

How do you negotiate when you dont know your own position? It seems bizarre to press on before the government is secure in its ability to command a Commons majority and before the Queens Speech, but the UK has to show willing  the dithering has to stop.

NO DEAL? NO WAY

May has said "no deal is better than a bad deal". The EU doesnt buy this, nor do most MPs. As a starting point for a game of poker its not a bad position, but its also perhaps a touch unrealistic given the economic and legal problems that would ensue from a cliff-edge exit. This no-deal outcome is being priced out  its less likely now following the election as Mrs Mays hardball stance is coming unstuck.

However we still have the prospect of no deal if talks dont go well. Britain says it will approach the talks in good faith. A lot hinges on how it goes this week. The EU wants to secure cash and rights for citizens immediately and is not willing to mess around. For Britain to get a good trade deal it might have to acquiesce or talks could turn sour.

A smooth deal is also looking harder. Parliament is split and Mrs May cannot even command a majority without DUP support. Even then her MPs are not all on side and it would take only a few rebels to block. While the EU is speaking with one voice, Britain is a chorus of competing voices.

VERY SOFT, ULTRA-HARD OR IN BETWEEN?

Is a soft Brexit even possible? Donald Tusk says not  the only alternative to a hard Brexit is no Brexit, he argues. Mrs May is pressing on with the hard option. The EU wont allow cherry-picking and is blocking Britain from speaking directly to member states.

Very soft Brexit: A Norway-style deal will not be acceptable to Brexiters. In essence it would be like Britain remaining in the EU without actually having a say in how its run. Such a scenario, which would protect single market access and therefore be market-friendly, is going to be unpalatable to the 52% and easy to argue against. It would undoubtedly be positive for sterling and could see GBPUSD regain levels seen before the referendum, but looks highly unlikely at present. It would represent a major shift in the government negotiating position for this to be on the table  a new government perhaps? Domestic political uncertainty means this scenario remains a possibility, however.

Softish Brexit: On a par with Turkey. Remaining in the customs union could be an option that both sides can just about stomach. It would be reasonably market friendly and likely help the pound to rally towards the $1.40 mark. It seems to be one of the more likely soft Brexit options, although currently the government does not wish to pursue this fox as Britain would not be able to strike its own trade deals with other nations  a blow for the hard Brexiters global Britain agenda.

Hard Brexit: The Canadian model. Exit single market and customs union and hope for a free trade deal. This is one that Mrs Mays Conservatives are currently aiming at but carries a large degree of risk. As the larger partner, the EU holds the trump cards. The pound would gain some support above the $1.25 level but a lot would depend on the scale of any deal.

Ultra-hard Brexit: Complete and abrupt exit from the EU with no trade deal and on WTO terms. The cliff-edge scenario is low in probability but potentially catastrophic for UK businesses. Tariffs would appear overnight. Economic growth would stall, potentially leading to recession and a steep sell-off in the pound towards $1.10.



Neil Wilson is senior market analyst at ETX Capital
Analysts at Citi lowered their forecasts for the price of iron ore over the next twelve months, telling clients that lower prices were needed in order for the market to re-balance and in anticipation of waning Chinese growth.

Their new forecasts called for an average price of $61 per tonne in 2017 and $50 per tonne between 2018 and 2020.

A near-term trough in prices - with spot prices dropping to the low $40s - was possible over the next six to eight months, they said.

Chinese blast furnace utilisation had already hit a near-term peak while steel scrap was reducing demand.

In parallel, iron ore inventories should peak in the back-half of 2017, they added, falling gradually thereafter without tightening balances.

Current expansion projects by the big miners should also add about 60Mt of supplies in 2017, the broker said.

"The market needs iron ore prices below $45/t to re-balance. Chinese growth momentum should wane, and credit tightness should lead to more de-stocking ahead," Citi said.

To take note of, in a separate note analysts at Citi maintained their 'buy' recommendation on shares of Rio Tinto but lowered their target price to 3,400p.

On a related note, on Friday analysts at Macquarie trimmed their own price projection for spot iron ore in 2017 by 1.6%.

Analysts at the Australian broker forecast spot iron would be at $50 per tonne in the second half of 2017, versus $61 over the second quarter.

While China's slowing property market was now the risk, Macquarie said demand for commodities was not weak, the global recovery had held up well - especially outside China.

"Over the rest of 2017 we continue to avoid those commodities most closely linked to [China's slowing property market], and/or where the supply response to higher prices has been strong, such as coking coal and iron ore. We are more favourable to those whose direction comes from other parts of the world, such as precious metals, or have a compelling supply case, such as zinc and lead."
Markets in Asia finished higher on Monday, as markets prepared for the Brexit negotiations between the United Kingdom and the so-called EU27, while a terrorist attack outside a London mosque left one person dead.

Japans Nikkei 225 added 0.62% to 20,067.75, as the yen lost ground against the greenback to last sit 0.09% behind at JPY 110.98.

Fresh data from Tokyo showed a 14.9% rise in exports from the country year-on-year for May, compared to the 16.1% Reuters-polled forecast.

The countrys trade balance came in very different to expectations, at a deficit of JPY 203.4bn, compared to the forecast JPY 76bn surplus.

On the mainland, the Shanghai Composite was up 0.7% at 3,145.02, while the smaller, technology-focussed Shenzhen Composite added 0.58% to 1,876.85.

New home prices data for May was released in China during the day, showing the price of a new home increased 10.4% during the month - just behind the 10.7% uptick seen in April.

South Koreas Kospi was up 0.38% at 2,370.90, while the Hang Seng Index in Hong Kong finished ahead 1.16% at 25,924.55.

Technology stocks were at the fore in Seoul, with Samsung Electronics adding 2.15%, while chipmaker SK Hynix improved 2.8%.

The increase in SK Hynix followed Nomuras maintaining of its buy rating on the stock on Friday, as it also raised its target price to KRW 100,000 from KRW 60,500.

Nomura said there was now a lower risk of oversupply from the chip manufacturer, as the prospects for the company finalising a deal with ailing Japanese firm Toshiba were also better, according to analysts.

An attack on Muslim worshippers in the Finsbury Park area of London occurred during the Asian trading session, with the Metropolitan Police later confirming one man had been killed and they were treating it as a terrorist attack.

Its understood a rented van drove through a crowd outside a mosque just after midnight, as worshippers would have been leaving in droves after the Taraweeh - nightly prayers during Ramadan.

Staying in the UK, traders were also keeping a watchful eye on the beginning of Brexit talks between the United Kingdom Government and the 27 remaining members of the European Union, which were due to start later on Monday.

Oil prices were lower during the Asian session, with Brent crude last up 0.42% at $47.57 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate adding 0.53% to $44.98.

In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 was 0.54$ higher by the close, at 5,805.17, with the weighty financials subindex and the utilities sector underpinning the benchmark.

New Zealands S&P/NZX 50 was ahead 0.5% at 7,592.03, led higher by dairy darling A2 Milk, which rocketed 5.7% after it lifted its annual sales guidance for the second time in two months last week.

It was a mixed picture for the down under dollars, with the Kiwi last strengthening 0.32% to NZD 1.3747 against the greenback, while the Aussie lost 0.15% to last sit at AUD 1.3144.
London stocks pressed ahead to a positive close as the UK began formal divorce talks with the European Union, and as the shares of multi-commodity miners and oil majors decided overall direction.

Gains in the prices of industrial metals and crude oil proved beneficial for stocks in those sectors, these evident among the bigger blue-chip risers.

At the end of the session, the FTSE 100 was up 0.81% to 7,523, and the FTSE 250 had edged higher by 0.29% to 19,873.30. Across the channel, the Euro Stoxx 50, Dax and Cac 40 were all ahead. Wall St was making positive progress in its opening deals, too.

"We should start Brexit talks every day, it seems. The long-awaited beginning of discussions between the UK and the EU has been greeted with an impressive bounce for both UK and European stocks," said IG chief market analyst Chris Beauchamp.

"The rally today has been broad-based, with European markets seeing a return of buyers after weeks of indecision," said Beauchamp. He noted the weaker euro and sterling had made life easier for stocks in the Eurozone and UK, respectively.

David Madden, market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said it appeared that Brexit talks had begun well when the UK's Brexit secretary, David Davis, and EU chief negotiator Michael Barnier met.

"The process of extracting the UK from the EU, will certainly be time consuming, so investors aren't waiting for some fast agreement, but as the process is staggered, they will be paying close attention at every turn," said Madden.

Over in France, President Emmanuel Macron's party won a clear parliamentary majority, weeks after his own presidential victory. His La Republique en Marche won more than 300 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly.

Also on Monday, the latest research from Rightmove revealed that asking prices for houses in the UK were being cut at the sharpest rate in over four years amid political and economic uncertainty, with London and the southeast underperforming the rest of the UK.

In corporate news, Barclays advanced as the Serious Fraud Office was expected to announce as soon as Tuesday whether it had decided to bring criminal charges against some of its bankers in relation to its emergency fundraising at the height of the financial crisis.

Retailers Sainsbury and Marks & Spencer were in the black, recovering from a slump at the end of last week on news of Amazon's $13.7bn deal to buy Whole Foods Market.

Security services company G4S was the standout gainer as it made its way back into the top-flight index, with the shares having enjoyed a healthy rise following its demotion to the FTSE 250 in December 2015 after several botched contracts.

Heating and plumbing products distributor Wolseley was higher ahead of its third quarter update on Tuesday. UBS said: "We expect group Q3 like-for-like revenue growth of 4.5%, driven by the US +6%.

InterContinental Hotels was hit by a downgrade to 'neutral' from 'outperform'' at Credit Suisse, mostly on valuation grounds. It highlighted a 40% re-rating since early 2016 and said that otherwise, it sees a balanced backdrop of positive and negative risks for "one of the highest quality companies we cover".

In property, Hammerson, British Land and Land Securities were under the cosh as the latest research from Rightmove revealed that asking prices for houses in the UK were being cut at the sharpest rate in over four years amid political and economic uncertainty, with London and the South East underperforming the rest of the UK.

Market Movers

FTSE 100 (UKX) 7,523.81 0.81%

FTSE 250 (MCX) 19,873.30 0.29%

techMARK (TASX) 3,608.37 0.36%

FTSE 100 - Risers

G4S (GFS) 335.90p 4.58%

Glencore (GLEN) 287.95p 2.93%

Wolseley (WOS) 4,881.00p 2.50%

Standard Life (SL.) 399.10p 2.39%

Sainsbury (J) (SBRY) 258.00p 2.26%

Rentokil Initial (RTO) 286.40p 2.25%

Anglo American (AAL) 986.20p 1.95%

Rolls-Royce Holdings (RR.) 924.50p 1.87%

BHP Billiton (BLT) 1,179.50p 1.81%

Barclays (BARC) 206.75p 1.72%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

Hammerson (HMSO) 594.00p -1.33%

Paddy Power Betfair (PPB) 8,525.00p -1.10%

Pearson (PSON) 705.50p -1.05%

easyJet (EZJ) 1,349.00p -0.95%

Direct Line Insurance Group (DLG) 366.50p -0.95%

Land Securities Group (LAND) 1,057.00p -0.94%

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) 4,395.00p -0.88%

3i Group (III) 904.00p -0.82%

Fresnillo (FRES) 1,536.00p -0.71%

ITV (ITV) 177.60p -0.67%

FTSE 250 - Risers

Ocado Group (OCDO) 306.40p 11.10%

Aberdeen Asset Management (ADN) 299.70p 5.01%

Kaz Minerals (KAZ) 493.30p 4.62%

Evraz (EVR) 181.10p 4.14%

Sirius Minerals (SXX) 33.69p 3.91%

Capita (CPI) 670.50p 3.87%

PZ Cussons (PZC) 348.70p 3.47%

B&M European Value Retail S.A. (DI) (BME) 350.90p 3.24%

Sophos Group (SOPH) 444.90p 3.19%

Northgate (NTG) 537.50p 3.07%

FTSE 250 - Fallers

Cairn Energy (CNE) 178.20p -5.01%

FirstGroup (FGP) 135.10p -4.59%

Nostrum Oil & Gas (NOG) 479.70p -4.36%

Clarkson (CKN) 2,583.00p -3.58%

Telecom Plus (TEP) 1,203.00p -3.30%

Rank Group (RNK) 237.40p -3.16%

Mitchells & Butlers (MAB) 234.70p -2.62%

AA (AA.) 216.20p -2.57%

Domino's Pizza Group (DOM) 315.50p -2.53%

Morgan Advanced Materials (MGAM) 300.80p -2.53%
European stocks have started the session on the front-foot amid investor optimism after France's new centrist party En Marche! and its centre-right allies garnered a comfortable majority in the country's parliamentary elections at the weekend.

As of 0832 BST the benchmark Stoxx 600 was ahead by 0.76% or 2.96 points at 391.56, alongside a gain of 1.02% for Pari's cac-40 to 5,316.32 and an advance of 0.79% or 102.95 points to 12,855.53 in Germany's Dax.

"A positive opening call comes as traders welcome another Macron victory in France, this time in Parliamentary elections, which give hope to him passing reforms that can help both the French economy and thus Europe. There is also optimism about a positive start to UK-EU Brexit negotiations which kick off today in Brussels. The GBP may be off its lows, but not proving a FTSE hindrance yet," said Mike van Dulken and Henry Croft at Accendo Markets.

French president Emmanuele Macron's upstart centrist party and its ally Modem won roughly 360 of 577 seats in the parliament in Paris, giving it a comfortable majority with which to push ahead with their programme of economic reforms.

However, a record low rate of voter participation of 43.5%, which was 10 percentage points less than the previous record low was not lost on market observers.

"Small risks remain. A high abstention rate suggests Macron is likely to face public protests, potentially stifling the reform process," said Marion Amiot at Oxford Economics.

Nevertheless, Amiot raised her forecasts for French GDP growth in in 2018 by 0.2 percentage points to 1.7% and by one tenth of a percentage point for 2019 to 1.6%. Macron's reforms should make the jobs market more flexible, with lower corporate taxes and an envisaged 50.0bn of investment stimulating hiring and spending.

Acting as a backdrop, also over the weekend the British Chancellor cautioned that leaving the European Union with no deal in place would be a "very, very bad outcome for the UK."

On the other hand, the worst scenario might be a pact that was deliberately structured to punish the UK. Brexit negotiations were set to begin at 1000 BST, in Brussels.

In parallel, front month Brent crude futures were lower by 0.40% to $47.18 a barrel on the ICE, while euro-dollar was drifting lower by 0.09% to 1.1188.

Still on the economic calendar for Monday, Eurostat was set to publish construction output data for the month of April at 1000 BST.

Later in the session, US New York Fed president William Dudley was scheduled to deliver a speech at 1300 BST, followed by his opposite number at the Chicago Fed, Charles Evans, after midnight.

Jet-maker Airbus showcased an upgraded version of its superjumbo A380 which included a new wingtip assembly which reduces fuel consumption by as much as 4%.

Germany's Rocket Internet set a price range of between 22.0 to 25.50 per share for the stockmarket listing of Delivery Hero.
Brexit secretary David Davis will meet the European Union's chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Brussels on Monday morning to formally begin discussing the terms of the UK's divorce.

The first day of official talks will begin at 1000 BST and continue until early evening, with a joint press conference at 1530 BST.

Issuing joint comments as they head into the first meeting, Davis said the talks were taking place in a positive and constructive tone, and that "there is more that unites us than divides us.

He said Britain was determined to build a strong and special partnership with our European allies and friends.

For his part, Barnier said he hoped the first meeting would allow his team to identify a timetable to be presented to EU leaders later this week.

"We must first tackle the uncertainties caused by Brexit, first for citizens, but also for the beneficiaries of EU policies and for the impact on borders, in particular Ireland," he said.

Photo of the first session between Barnier and DD: pic.twitter.com/pUBGQggAKj  Harry Cole (@MrHarryCole) June 19, 2017

UNCERTAIN MOOD

With Prime Minister Theresa May's positions on watch within her Conservative party after squandered its parliamentary majority in this month's snap election, Wednesday's Queen's speech will open parliament and set the tone and direction for the next two years of government and Brexit talks.

It is unclear how much Davis and Barnier will be able to agree, with the Tories seeming to have dropped the "no deal is better than a bad deal" threat since the election, with many anti-Brexit ministers having gained confidence to push harder for a softer Brexit deal, putting jobs and the economy first.

Chancellor Phillip Hammond suggested on Sunday a less aggressive tone should be taken in negotiations, indicating that transactional structures would be needed to help smooth the process and that we need to get there via a slope, not via a cliff edge.

Rejecting the Prime Minister's "no deal" mantra, Hammond said that his position was one of a jobs first Brexit.

TALKS TIMETABLE

Barnier has been told by the EU leaders that the UK will need to reach agreement on exit terms such as the size of the Brexit bill, the rights of citizens and the Northern Irish border before the EU will discuss any post-Brexit trade deal.

Davis, who has previously said the discussion timetable would be the row of the summer, is expected to initially accept the EUs approach, although a spokesman for his Department for Exiting the EU said: As the EU has itself said, nothing is agreed, until everything is agreed.

A statement from the department said Davis will lead a team of negotiators to Brussels "confident that he can get a positive outcome and secure a new deep and special partnership with the EU" and that he will also set out "a bold vision for the UKs future after it leaves the EU".

Sandro Gozi, Italys European minister, had new doubts about Britain's negotiating position since the election result. It raises new uncertainties and there is a big question mark about the position the UK will take, he told the Guardian.

EU negotiators told the Times that they fear without some early compromise in the talks, a newly weakened May might not survive the duration of Brexit talks this summer, but believe the Prime Minister might use a private Brussels dinner on Thursday to ease off on some of her previous demands.

On Sunday there was also a potential breakthrough proposal from Sigmar Gabriel, Germany's foreign minister, who said if the UK gives concessions on free movement of people the EU may offer a deal including reduced jurisdiction for EU judges over Britain and continued access to the single market.

In a report in the Welt am Sonntag newspaper he suggested if UK allowed free movement for Europeans it would be able to keep full access to the single market and also offered a major concession of a joint court that is staffed by Europeans and Britons which in principle follows the decisions of the European Court of Justice.

MARKET CONFUSION

The pound, which has since last year become a proxy for the market's view of Britain's Brexit prospects, was on the front foot on Monday morning, up more than 0.1% against both dollar and euro amid a picture that traders said was highly confusing.

"How do you negotiate when you dont know your own position?" said market analyst Neil Wilson at ETX Capital.

"It seems bizarre to press on before the government is secure in its ability to command a Commons majority and before the Queens Speech, but the UK has to show willing  the dithering has to stop."

"Britain says it will approach the talks in good faith. A lot hinges on how it goes this week. The EU wants to secure cash and rights for citizens immediately and is not willing to mess around. For Britain to get a good trade deal it might have to acquiesce or talks could turn sour," he said.

The post-election dropping of the "no deal is better than a bad deal" threat among Tories is evidence of positive progress said economist Kallum Pickering at Berenberg.

"It can mean less scope for a messy fallout between the UK and the EU over the divorce settlement. Furthermore, that key pro-EU Conservative MPs including the Chancellors Philip Hammond, are more active thantn before in pushing for an exit that puts the economy and jobs first makes a softer Brexit more likely."

He suggested the Tories might get May to concede on parts of the Brexit divorce that are important to the EU but unpopular for UK Brexiteers, allow her take the flak and then drop her for a new Prime Minister who would have a free run at negotiating the trade deal.
Hansteen was cashed up to the tune of an extra 750m on Monday, confirming that the proposed sale of its German and Dutch portfolios to entities owned by funds advised by affiliates of The Blackstone Group and M7 Real Estate had now completed.

The FTSE 250 firm had announced the sale, worth a gross 1.28bn, on 20 March.

As previously announced, Hansteen intends to distribute, to its shareholders, a substantial portion of the net cash proceeds details of which will be announced as soon as reasonably practicable, its board said on Monday.

The portfolios were sold on a debt-free basis for cash, with the 1.28bn price representing a premium of around 76m - or 6% - to the year-end valuation of the assets, which itself included a valuation uplift of 34m over the 31 December 2015 valuation.

Hansteen said at the time of the sales announcement that the disposal realised the value in the portfolios at a time when they were not only at historically high levels of occupancy and rent for the period of the companys ownership, but also at a time when the euro/sterling exchange rate was favourable.

The sale is in line with our long-term business and portfolio strategy of buying at a low point in the cycle, with low occupancy and rents, adding value through improved asset management and subsequently realising the investment at a higher point in the cycle, Hansteens joint chief executives Morgan Jones and Ian Watson said in a statement at the time of the initial announcement.
European leaders fear that Theresa Mays government is too fragile to negotiate viable terms on which to leave the union, meaning the discussions that officially begin on Monday could end in a brutal Brexit  under which talks collapse without any deal. As officials began gathering in Brussels on Sunday night, the long-awaited start of negotiations was overshadowed by political chaos back in Westminster, where chancellor Philip Hammond warned that failing to strike a deal would be a very, very bad outcome. - Guardian

Germany has offered a soft Brexit with a reduced jurisdiction for EU judges over Britain and continued access to Europes single market in return for a British concession on free movement. Sigmar Gabriel, the German foreign minister, suggested yesterday that European countries were willing to make trade-offs in advance of negotiations on Britains withdrawal from the EU. Talks begin in Brussels today. - The Times

Police are investigating a potential terror attack in London after a van ploughed into people near a north London mosque, killing one man and injuring eight others. The prime minister, Theresa May, was woken to be told of the early-morning incident at Finsbury Park and has confirmed that counter-terrorism command is leading an active inquiry. - Guardian

The chancellor, Philip Hammond, hinted on Sunday that the government would ease up on its austerity programme, saying the Conservatives were not deaf to the message delivered by the election result. In interviews in which he also criticised Theresa Mays team for sidelining him during the election campaign, Hammond said that he accepted that people are weary of the long slog. - Guardian

Ageing baby boomers are expected to hand over nearly 3trn of their wealth to relatives over the next three decades, providing a major boost to the economy for years, according to research by a leading money manager. About 920bn is expected to be gifted by the over-55s to family by 2047, equivalent to an annual boost of 1.2 percentage points to UK GDP, funding for 3.4m first-time buyers to purchase a home or enough to cover the tuition fees of 24m students. - The Times

The corner shop group Nisa is poised to sign an exclusivity agreement with the supermarket giant J Sainsbury which will temporarily bar the mutually owned group from courting other buyers. Nisa, which buys and distributes on behalf of more than 2,500 independently owned stores around the UK and has a turnover of 1.43bn, has been working with bankers at Lazard on a potential sale since Tesco unveiled plans to acquire its rival wholesaler Booker. - Telegraph

Co-op Bank could announce a deal this week that would lead to the struggling lenders hedge fund owners and the Co-op Group agreeing a 700 million bailout package, averting a wind down that would leave millions of customers and thousands of pensioners facing uncertainty. Representatives of bondholders and the countrys largest mutual were in talks over the weekend about how to resolve the cost of pension entitlements for current and former Co-op Bank staff and appeared to be close to a deal. - The Times

Banks, accountants and law firms that facilitate offshore tax schemes face a Europe-wide crackdown, according to a leak of draft legislation. Brussels will publish proposals this Wednesday to force financial intermediaries to automatically disclose any new cross-border tax schemes offered to clients. - Guardian

A squeeze on Britains defence spending could be starting to crystallise with a smaller than expected order of Apache helicopters from Boeing by the Ministry of Defence. The MoD said last year it would order 50 AH-64E attack helicopters to replace its ageing Army Air Corps Apache fleet on an almost one-for-one basis. - Telegraph

QUEEN'S SPEECH

The four principles on which the Tories and Democratic Unionist Party broadly agree are: To strengthen the union, combat terrorism, deliver Brexit and deliver prosperity. These will form the bones of Wednesdays Queens speech, which will comprise the governments to-do list for the next two years. - The Times

Theresa May is being told that she must publish full details of an agreement with the Democratic Unionist Party in return for its ten MPs propping up her minority government as concerns mount over the cost of such a deal. The Treasury has estimated that concessions being demanded by the party in Northern Ireland would cost billions of pounds if granted throughout the UK, according to Whitehall figures. - The Times

David Davis has emerged as the unity candidate to lead the Conservative Party after he was tipped for the post by allies of Boris Johnson. The Brexit secretary is being touted as a candidate to take Britain past the March 2019 date when Britain is expected to leave the EU if the Prime Minister quits suddenly. - Telegraph

Theresa May has told ministers to pull out all the stops to ensure that the electric Mini is made in Britain. Losing it to a factory in the Netherlands or Germany would deal a big blow at the start of Brexit talks. - The Times

French president Emmanuel Macron clinched an absolute majority in parliament on Sunday night, but record abstention rates and a lower-than-expected landslide prompted critics to warn he has no blank cheque for far-reaching reform. In the latest chapter in his democratic revolution, exit polls showed Mr Macrons centrist party, La Republique en Marche, (Republic on the Move, or REM) - along with its centrist allies - was on course to win between 355 to 365 out of 577 seats in the lower house together with its centre-right MoDem ally. - Telegraph

Britains biggest business groups have made a joint plea to the government to put the economy first in Brexit talks and to secure a transitional deal that preserves access to the European single market. The five lobby groups, including the British Chambers of Commerce and the CBI, have also called on ministers to prioritise an early deal on guarantees for EU 27 citizens in the UK and for UK citizens in other EU countries. - Guardian

HOUSE PRICES

Momentum in the housing market is stalling amid the unexpected general election result and uncertainty over the outcome of Brexit negotiations, according to research conducted by Rightmove, the property website. Asking prices for homes in England and Wales fell by 0.4 per cent, to 316,109, this month, the first time a decline has been recorded in June since 2009, the height of the financial crisis. - The Times

Global internet advertising is due this year to overtake television finally to become the worlds biggest medium, an industry forecast predicted. Online ads will account for 37 per cent of the worlds total this year, Zenith the media-buying agency, said. - The Times

The international body that represents the worlds central banks has claimed that globalisation has been made a scapegoat for rising inequality, as it launched a defence of closer cross-border ties. Against the backdrop of protectionist rhetoric in many countries, including from US president Donald Trump, the Bank for International Settlements used its annual report to argue that globalisation has cut global poverty and will continue to lift living standards around the world. - Guardian

Campaigners have called for restrictions on diesel vehicles in city centres as research showed that increased congestion was leading to a sharp rise in pollution. Analysis found that slower urban speeds, with more cars crawling through city streets, could directly worsen air quality. - The Times

Aviva is preparing for the arrival of driverless vehicles by trying to seal deals with manufacturers. The emergence of driverless cars, which could be common within 15 years, is expected to rattle the motor insurance industry, with many concerned that insurance companies will no longer be needed. - Telegraph

Jaguar Land Rover has unveiled plans to recruit 5,000 new engineers over the next year in a boost for British industry as the Brexit talks begin. The carmaker has just enjoyed a record year of sales bolstered by demand for luxury cars in China and North America, and needs thousands of new recruits, predominantly in the UK, to help develop new models, including electric cars. - Guardian

Theresa Mays hopes of driving through laws to smooth Britains path out of the EU will be dealt a blow this week as Labour lays the ground for a guerrilla campaign against them in the Commons. Mrs May had hoped to trap Labour into supporting legislation, collectively known as the great repeal bill, on the grounds that the main opposition party is also committed to leaving the EU. - The Times

Price comparison websites across Europe are preparing to file for damages against Google in the expectation that European Union antitrust regulators will slap a hefty fine on the internet company over its shopping service. The European Commissions ruling, which could come as early as this week, follows a seven-year investigation and scores of complaints against Google from American and European competitors, who accuse it of taking advantage of its dominance of Europes internet search market (it has 90 per cent) to distort results in favour of its shopping comparison service. - The Times

The NHS pay cap is unfair, unpopular and dangerous to patient safety, bodies representing 1.3 million health service staff have warned Theresa May, urging her to ditch the policy in the Queens speech. The plea from doctors, nurses, dentists and other health professionals comes as the prime minister faces intense pressure to scrap the cap, introduced in 2010, which has limited NHS staff to 1% pay rises or below. It is legislated to continue until 2020. - Guardian

Google has introduced four new measures to tackle the spread of terrorist material online, saying the threat poses a serious challenge and that more immediate action needs to be taken. It has pledged better detection of extremist content and faster review, more experts, tougher standards and an expansion of counter-radicalisation work.
India will want the BRICS grouping to put out a strong statement on terrorism as it holds a summit in Xiamen, southern China, in September which PM Modi will attend.

Brazil's Foreign Minister, Russia's Foreign Minister, South Africa's Foreign Minister and Indian Minister of External Affairs pose with China's Foreign Minister before the opening of the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Beijing. REUTERS

By Ananth Krishnan: India has made a pitch for the BRICS grouping to strengthen ties in combating counter-terrorism, as the foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa held their first ever stand-alone summit in Beijing on Monday.

Addressing the opening of the summit, Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. (retd) VK Singh, who was attending the meet as External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was unable to travel for health reasons, noted the group has launched a joint working group on counter-terrorism which held a meeting last month.

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He also said National Security Adviser Ajit Doval will likely travel to Beijing next month for a BRICS NSAs meet that will also discuss terror and security cooperation.

"The BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion," Gen. Singh said. "The joint working group on counter terror concluded its meeting in May. Our NSAs are scheduled to meet next month. In their meeting last year, they reached significant understanding to enhance BRICS cooperation in security and counter-terrorism".

"India attaches utmost importance to engagement with BRICS countries," he added. "The Prime Minister has repeatedly underscored the role of BRICS in the international arena and stressed the importance of fostering intra-BRICS cooperation".

INDIA, CHINA LOOK TO BRING STRAINED RELATIONS BACK ON TRACK

India will want the BRICS grouping to put out a strong statement on terrorism as it holds a summit in Xiamen, southern China, in September which PM Modi will attend. China has been one of the stumbling blocks in other fora, such as the UN Security Council, when the question of Pakistan-sourced terrorism is involved.

On Sunday, both countries looked to bring recently strained relations back on track as Gen. Singh held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. He said "India looks forward to strengthening and deepening its strategic partnership and mutual dialogue with China."

Wang was quoted as saying by the official Xinhua news agency that "China and India are both major countries with great influence, and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large."

MAJOR VISIT AFTER BOYCOTT OF BELT AND ROAD SUMMIT

This is the first major visit from India after Delhi became the only major country to boycott President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road summit on May 14.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had been scheduled to attend Monday's first ever standalone BRICS foreign ministers' meeting - previous interactions among the foreign ministers of the grouping had only been held on the sidelines of other summit - but as Gen. Singh told Wang, "She wanted to come but then health and other restrictions on her did not permit her. But she was looking forward to meeting you."

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The ministers will on Monday call on Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi's government is going all out to ensure the BRICS summit in September, which Xi will host in Xiamen in Fujian province where he was earlier a provincial leader, will be seen as a success, with the Communist Party of China also hosting a key once-in-five-year leadership congress, likely to be held in Beijing the following month.

Also Read:

Ram Madhav in China: Time to end double standards, BRICS should unite against terror

VK Singh in Beijing: India, China look to bring ties back on track

Also Watch:

PM Modi meets China's Jingping on sidelines of SCO summit is Astana

--- ENDS ---
President Trumps decision to pull the U.S. out of the Paris climate agreement earlier this month was a clear win for conservative groups and individuals that support the weakening of environmental regulations.

So what do these politically powerful forces have next on the agenda?

The first target could be the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) endangerment finding, David Stevenson, a former EPA transition team member and policy director at the libertarian think tank Caesar Rodney Institute told New Republic.

This Obama-era finding that greenhouse gas emissions endangers public health and welfare might seem wholly unremarkable. However, the endangerment finding not only cemented a consensus within the scientific community, it also legally obligates the EPA to regulate sources of that pollutant under the Clean Air Actincluding power plants, cars, trucks and other sources that combust coal, oil and natural gas. By unraveling the endangerment finding, the U.S. is legally washing its hands of climate change litigation brought by environmental groups.

As long as thats sitting there, the potential for legal challenges just goes on and on and on, and thats not productive for any of us, Stevenson explained.

Undoing the 2009 finding was a major topic of discussion at a March conference hosted by the Heartland Institute, the nations leading climate skeptic think tank. Reuters reported that at least three conservative groups has petitioned the EPA to undo the finding. Myron Ebell, who led Trumps EPA transition team, similarly considers it a major priority.

As it happens, current EPA administrator and former Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt filed a lawsuit in 2010 to overturn the endangerment finding, which he and his fellow litigants characterized as arbitrary and capricious. And lets not forget that Pruitt, who urged Trump to exit from the Paris accord, does not even believe that carbon dioxide is a primary contributor to climate change.

However, there could be more sinister moves at play. For one, undoing the endangerment finding would also empower the federal government to instantly repeal all existing regulations that reduce global warming, New Republics Emily Atkin noted, such as the Clean Power Plan and Obama-era fuel economy standards for cars and light truckstwo of the Heartland Institutes top five environmental policy priorities.

Other potential post-Paris moves include gutting the scope and powers of the EPA. Stevenson lauded Trumps proposed EPA budget, which cuts the agencys funds by 31 percent.

There are about 50 small EPA programs that look like theyre ineffective, he said. Theyre going to be cut.

Lastly, the New Republic piece highlighted one of the most daunting post-Paris goals of all: the intellectual validation of climate denial.

Now that denial is the official policy of the U.S. government, they are getting the legitimacy they desire, whether they deserve it or not, Atkin wrote. For an ideology based in falsehoods, that is perhaps the greatest victory they could possibly achieve under Trump.
By Katherine Paul

When the colours turn grey and the lights all fade

To black again

Were in over our heads

But somehow we make it back again  lyrics from Beautiful Mess

Next month will mark one year since Congress obliterated Vermonts GMO labeling law and replaced it with its own faux-labeling measure. The DARK Act was an outright attack on consumer and states rights. Still, then-President Obama refused to veto it.

We lost the right to labels on GMO foods. But we never lost our determination to expose Monsantos corrupt manipulation of government agencies, or the truth about just how harmful Roundup herbicide is to humans and the environment.

Fast forward to today. Monsanto is facing down scores of lawsuits by people, or their families, who were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after being exposed to Roundup. Those lawsuits have led to revelations about possible collusion between Monsanto employees and former U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials to bury evidence of Roundups carcinogenicity.

Meanwhile the EPA, perhaps fearing consumer backlash, refuses to rule on whether to renew the license for glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup), even though were now nearly two years past the deadline.

Food companies are being sued, too, when product testing reveals that brands labeled 100% Natural contain glyphosate residues. And the Food & Drug Administration recently announced it will resume testing of consumer foods for glyphosate.

Farmers are growing fewer GMO crops. Other countries are banning GMOs and glyphosate.

Its no wonder Monsanto cant wait to hand over the keys to Bayer. Things are getting messy. For consumers and environmentalists, its a beautiful mess.

Here are four signs were winning the battle against Monsanto:

1. Court battles pull back the curtain on Monsantos corrupt activities.

The fact that more than 1,000 plaintiffs are involved in dozens of lawsuits alleging that exposure to Roundup caused them or their families to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma (a potentially deadly cancer) is compelling enough. Especially when a mainstream media outlet like CNN, often silent when it comes to challenging the corporate establishment, takes notice. That in itself is a win for consumers.

But the bigger win may be what those lawsuits are doing to shed light on Monsantos sustained campaign to bury the truth about its deadly products.

In March, the New York Times, citing court documents, reported on possible collusion between former EPA officials and Monsanto employees to hide the facts about the health risks of glyphosate:

The court documents included Monsantos internal emails and email traffic between the company and federal regulators. The records suggested that Monsanto had ghostwritten research that was later attributed to academics and indicated that a senior official at the EPA had worked to quash a review of Roundups main ingredient, glyphosate, that was to have been conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The revelations confirmed consumer suspicions that Roundup isnt safe, and validated the opinions of scientists who question its safety. Theyve triggered calls in Europe for further investigation.

Reporters continue to scrutinize the MDL (multi-district lawsuits) documents unsealed so far (the judge in the case has since refused to unseal any further documents). U.S. Right to Knows Carey Gillam, who has been following the court documents closely, recently reported on a decades-old study, A Chronic Feeding Study of Glyphosate (Roundup Technical) in Mice, uncovered during litigation but until now hidden from public view, that suggests Roundup causes cancer.

The two-year study ran from 1980-1982 and involved 400 mice divided into groups of 50 males and 50 females that were administered three different doses of the weed killer or received no glyphosate at all for observation as a control group. The study was conducted for Monsanto to submit to regulators. But unfortunately for Monsanto, some mice exposed to glyphosate developed tumors at statistically significant rates, with no tumors at all in non-dosed mice.

2. EPA forced to investigate Monsanto corruption.

Thanks to the work of reporters studying court documents, the EPA has stepped in. On May 31, the agencys inspector general responded to Rep. Ted Lieus (D-Calif.) call for an investigation into possible collusion between Monsanto and EPA officials. (Organic Consumers Association also called for an investigation. We havent heard back.)

The EPA may just be going through the formalities to appease Lieu and his constituents. But even if thats true, its still a sign that consumers are getting through to an agency that has historically been aggressively pro-Monsanto.

3. Consumers are fighting back through the courts, too.

Monsanto and Big Food have long been allies in the campaign to hide GMOs, and the pesticides used to grow them, from consumers. Will the Junk Food Giants reconsider their position, if they, too, get dragged through the courts?

The Organic Consumers Association, along with other groups, have been testing food products for glyphosate, and taking companies to court for falsely marketing their products as natural and 100% Natural. Pending cases include the one against General Mills Nature Valley granola bars, and another against Sioux Honey. Both products contain glyphosate. (A recent study from Canada revealed glyphosate in 30 percent of the food products tested).

And lest we forget, Roundup isnt just sprayed on agricultural productsits a best-selling consumer product, too. Labels on Roundup sold in stores like Walmart, Costco, Home Depot, and online at Amazon, claim the product is safe for humans and pets. Thats not trueso weve sued Monsanto directly for false labeling.

4. FDA resumes testing food for glyphosate.

As the lawsuits flow, and more evidence comes to light about the toxic impact of glyphosate on human health (including bad outcomes for pregnant moms and their babies), the FDA has been shamed into testing foods for glyphosate residuesa project it had previously abandoned:

The FDA, the nations chief food safety regulator, launched what it calls a special assignment last year to analyze certain foods for glyphosate residues after the agency was criticized by the U.S. Government Accountability Office for failing to include glyphosate in annual testing programs that look for many less-used pesticides in foods. But the agency scuttled the testing after only a few months amid disagreement and difficulties with establishing a standard methodology to use across the agencys multiple U.S. laboratories, according to FDA sources.

The testing reportedly resumed in early June. It remains to be seen if the FDA will share, much less publicize, its findingsand whether the agency will continue to claim, as it has in the past, that glyphosate residues are safe. Stay tuned.

Katherine Paul is associate director of the Organic Consumers Association.
1. Yoga is an effective alternative to physical therapy for easing low back pain

Trial was unique in that it focused on underserved, racially diverse patients

Video available: HD video soundbites of experts discussing yoga and physical therapy available at http://www.dssimon.com/MM/ACP-yoga.

Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M16-2579

Editorial: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M17-1263

Free Summary for Patients: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/P17-9039

URLs go live when the embargo lifts

A study of 320 predominantly low-income, racially diverse adults with chronic low back pain found that yoga was as safe and effective as physical therapy for restoring function and relieving pain. Compared to an education only intervention, patients who did yoga or physical therapy were also less likely to take pain medications at 12 weeks. The findings are published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Chronic low back pain affects approximately 10 percent of U.S. adults and has a greater impact on racial or ethnic minorities and in people of lower socioeconomic status. Physical therapy is the most common evidence-based, reimbursable, and non-pharmacologic therapy prescribed by physicians, but clinical guidelines, meta-analyses, and several large randomized controlled trials also support yoga. How these two therapies stack up against one another has not been studied. Moreover, little is known about yoga's effectiveness in underserved patients with more severe functional disability and pain.

Researchers from Boston Medical Center randomly assigned participants to 12 weekly yoga classes, 15 physical therapy visits, or an educational book and newsletters about coping with chronic low back pain. Following the intervention phase, participants continued with a maintenance phase and were followed to one year. The goal of the noninferiority trial was to determine if yoga was statistically as effective as physical therapy.

The researchers found that a yoga class designed for chronic low back pain patients was as effective as physical therapy for reducing pain, improving function, and lowering use of pain medication. Improvements in yoga and physical therapy groups were maintained at 1 year with no differences between maintenance strategies. The researchers conclude that yoga may be a reasonable alternative to physical therapy depending upon patient preferences, availability, and cost.

Media contact: For an embargoed PDF, please contact Cara Graeff at cgraeff@acponline.org. For an interview with the lead author, Robert Saper, MD, MPH, please contact

Jenny Eriksen Leary at jenny.eriksen@bmc.org or 617-638-6841.

2. Survey: Concern for patients likely to sway physicians to support fines for antibiotic overprescribing

Abstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/L17-0102

URLs go live when the embargo lifts

Physician support of financial penalties for inappropriate antibiotic prescribing varies based on rationale used to present the argument. Being presented with information about patient harms was more persuasive than information about societal or institutional harms. The findings are published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Despite recommendations, physicians commonly prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated upper respiratory infections. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania conducted a randomized web-based survey of members of the American College of Physicians to determine whether physician support of financial penalties for antibiotic misuse would be influenced by emphasis on patient, societal, or institutional harms of such prescribing. Physicians were randomly assigned one of four versions of the principal question. The first version described harms to patients, such as increased costs and iatrogenic infections. The second described harms to society, such as increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics and diversion of limited health care resources to less productive uses. The third described harms as increased costs to hospitals and insurers as institutions. And a fourth control version provided no information. The researchers used clinical vignettes to measure how likely respondents were to recommend antibiotics for uncomplicated upper respiratory infection. Physician attitudes about cost control in patient care were also evaluated.

The researchers found that 31 percent of respondents supported financial penalties for inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, but responses varied by survey version. Fort-one percent of recipients of the patient harm version, 23 percent of recipients of the societal harm version, 36 percent of recipients of the institutional harm version, and 25 percent of the recipients of the control version supported such penalties. These results suggest that policymakers might increase the acceptability of penalties by implementing them while explicitly emphasizing the harms and costs to patients.

Media contact: For an embargoed PDF please contact Cara Graeff. For an interview with lead author, Joshua Liao, MD, MSc, please contact Katie Delach at katie.delach@uphs.upenn.edu or 215-349-5964.

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Also new in this issue:

Inpatient Notes: Research Highlights From Hospital Medicine 2017

CONSORT Statement for Randomized Trials of Nonpharmacologic Treatments: A 2017 Update and a CONSORT Extension for Nonpharmacologic Trial Abstracts

Robert Burke, MD, MS, and Andrew Auerbach, MD, MPHAnnals for HospitalistsAbstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M17-1243 Isabelle Boutron, MD, PhD; Douglas G. Altman, DSc; David Moher, PhD; Kenneth F. Schulz, PhD, MBA; and Philippe Ravaud, MD, PhD* for the CONSORT NPT GroupResearch and Reporting MethodsAbstract: http://annals.org/aim/article/doi/10.7326/M17-0046
Two decades of research show group augmentation, increased offspring or propensity for offspring, and other rewards outweigh risks in territorial boundary patrols by male chimpanzees

Phoenix, AZ -- Territorial boundary patrolling by chimpanzees is a striking example of group-level cooperation displayed by our closest primate relatives.

Chimpanzees patrol in groups for the same reason wolves hunt in packs, because what they can achieve working together far exceeds the returns of more individualized efforts.

Patrols are conspicuous events that occur when multiple individuals, typically male, travel to the peripheries of their territory and sometimes deep into those of their neighbors. During these incursions, patrollers become hypervigilant and behave in other ways that suggest they are actively searching for neighbors. If the patrolling males find members of a rival group, they will attack and sometimes even kill them.

Unlike other animals, who will fight when groups happen to meet at the edges of their territories, male chimpanzees seem to deliberately search for neighbors while on patrols, potentially putting themselves in harm's way for uncertain gains.

So why do male chimpanzees choose to patrol when such forays may lead to violent, even lethal, encounters with members of neighboring groups? Patrols may benefit everyone by increasing the size of the territory and the food supply, but individuals also have the option to shirk patrol duty since unhelpful members are not punished or ostracized.

To determine how male chimpanzees manage to achieve and maintain this remarkable form of cooperation, researchers -- led by Kevin Langergraber of Arizona State University's School of Human Evolution and Social Change and Institute of Human Origins -- examined twenty years of data on who participated in patrols in a 200-member-strong Ngogo community of chimpanzees within Kibale National Park, Uganda. The results of this study are published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

By combining analyses of patrol participation with results of paternity testing on 122 group offspring, Langergraber and colleagues found that, over the long run, patrolling paid off because it increased group size, which is important in determining success in competition against other groups.

"The Ngogo chimpanzees patrol and kill neighbors more frequently than any other chimpanzee group," says John Mitani of the University of Michigan, who has studied these particular primates for 22 years.

By 2009, the group expanded the size of their territory by 22 percent over the previous decade after killing 13 individuals from a neighboring group. Because of their success in competition against other groups, the Ngogo chimpanzees benefit from an unusually good food supply and long life expectancies.

But patrolling is a potentially dangerous as well as energy-sapping activity, and time spent patrolling is time that cannot be spent eating or mating with females in the safety of the territory. The study showed that males varied in how often they patrolled, and it was no surprise that high-ranking individuals, who were likely to be in good physical condition, participated frequently.

In addition, males who had more offspring living in the group, and thus more to gain by territorial expansion, patrolled often. However, not all patrolling events could be explained by such short-term benefits, as many males patrolled when they had no offspring or other relatives living in the group to protect.

Why should males pay the costs of patrolling to benefit the relatives of other individuals? In this large group, reproduction was not monopolized by a few high-ranking males. Males who patrolled when they had no offspring were thus very likely to reproduce in the future.

So even if a male has nothing to gain by protecting relatives now, by patrolling and thereby protecting and increasing the size of the group, he can gain in the long run.

"We know that humans have means ranging from gossip to drastic punishment to aid cooperation in group settings," Langergraber says. "The puzzle has been to explain cooperation in animal societies, where shirking would seem an attractive option."

Most studies have focused on short term benefits of cooperation, he adds, "but our study shows the benefit of long-term data collection, and also that we still have a lot to learn from these chimpanzees."

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Researchers and Affiliations:

Kevin E. Langergraber

Assistant Professor and Research Affiliate

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ

School of Human Evolution and Social Change

Institute of Human Origins

David P. Watts

Professor of Anthropology; Director of Graduate Studies

Yale University, New Haven, CT

Department of Anthropology

Linda Vigilant

Research Scientist

Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany

Department of Primatology

John C. Mitani

James N. Spuhler Collegiate Professor; Associate Chair

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Department of Anthropology

About ASU's School of Human Evolution and Social Change:

ASU's School of Human Evolution and Social Change is one of the few academic environments on earth where research on traditional anthropological subjects such as cultures, ruins, stones, bones and primates takes place alongside mathematical modeling of viral disease spread, healthy food initiatives and water use. Our school exists to explore the many untold chapters of the human story as well as to preserve and transfer that knowledge to those who desire to change our world for the better.

About ASU's Institute of Human Origins:

The Institute of Human Origins is one of the preeminent research organizations in the world devoted to the science of human origins. IHO pursues an integrative strategy for research and discovery central to its over 30-year-old founding mission, bridging social, earth and life science approaches to the most important questions concerning the course, causes and timing of events in the human career over deep time.
As the HIV/AIDS epidemic approaches its fourth decade, each year brings promising news of pioneering research to alleviate the scourge. Add City College of New York scientists to the list with a rapid method to access new molecules that could inhibit the virus that causes AIDS.

The CCNY research led by Mahesh K. Lakshman, vice chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Ph.D. student Hari Akula, focuses on the modification of nucleosides. These are genetic building materials in all living organisms and because of this they possess great potential as antiviral agents.

The ability to rapidly modify the structures of natural nucleosides is at the core of developing potential pharmaceutical agents. This is likely to yield diverse compounds that can then be tested to gain insight into structural effects on biological activity. "Such is the case with modifying pyrimidine nucleosides, including AZT (zidovudine), a drug used in the control of HIV infections," said Lakshman, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

In this context, Lakshman and Akula have developed a simple and fast method for preparing new pyrimidine nucleoside analogues, a family in which AZT belongs, and for modifying AZT itself. Along with their collaborators at the Rega Institute for Medical Research, they have identified several new compounds that are active against the more virulent HIV-1 and the less common and less pathogenic HIV-2.

Their research appears in the Royal Society of Chemistry publication "Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry."

According to the Geneva-based UNAIDS, as of 2015, an estimated 35 million people have died globally from AIDS-related illnesses since the start of the epidemic.

HIV, however, is no longer considered a death sentence following the development of antiretroviral therapy. As a result, UNAIDS estimates that more than 18 million people around the world are living with HIV.

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About The City College of New York

Since 1847, The City College of New York has provided low-cost, high-quality education for New Yorkers in a wide variety of disciplines. Today more than 16,000 students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in eight professional schools and divisions, driven by significant funded research, creativity and scholarship. Now celebrating its 170th anniversary, CCNY is as diverse, dynamic and visionary as New York City itself. View CCNY Media Kit
An international team of scientists has for the first time used an X-ray free-electron laser to unravel the structure of an intact virus particle on the atomic level. The method used dramatically reduces the amount of virus material required, while also allowing the investigations to be carried out several times faster than before. This opens up entirely new research opportunities, as the research team lead by DESY scientist Alke Meents reports in the journal Nature Methods.

In the field known as structural biology, scientists examine the three-dimensional structure of biological molecules in order to work out how they function. This knowledge enhances our understanding of the fundamental biological processes taking place inside organisms, such as the way in which substances are transported in and out of a cell, and can also be used to develop new drugs.

"Knowing the three-dimensional structure of a molecule like a protein gives great insight into its biological behaviour," explains co-author David Stuart, Director of Life Sciences at the synchrotron facility Diamond Light Source in the UK and a professor at the University of Oxford. "One example is how understanding the structure of a protein that a virus uses to 'hook' onto a cell could mean that we're able to design a defence for the cell to make the virus incapable of attacking it."

X-ray crystallography is by far the most prolific tool used by structural biologists and has already revealed the structures of thousands of biological molecules. Tiny crystals of the protein of interest are grown, and then illuminated using high-energy X-rays. The crystals diffract the X-rays in characteristic ways so that the resulting diffraction patterns can be used to deduce the spatial structure of the crystal - and hence of its components - on the atomic scale. However, protein crystals are nowhere near as stable and sturdy as salt crystals, for example. They are difficult to grow, often remaining tiny, and are easily damaged by the X-rays.

"X-ray lasers have opened up a new path to protein crystallography, because their extremely intense pulses can be used to analyse even extremely tiny crystals that would not produce a sufficiently bright diffraction image using other X-ray sources," adds co-author Armin Wagner from Diamond Light Source. However, each of these microcrystals can only produce a single diffraction image before it evaporates as a result of the X-ray pulse. To perform the structural analysis, though, hundreds or even thousands of diffraction images are needed. In such experiments, scientists therefore inject a fine liquid jet of protein crystals through a pulsed X-ray laser, which releases a rapid sequence of extremely short bursts. Each time an X-ray pulse happens to strike a microcrystal, a diffraction image is produced and recorded.

This method is very successful and has already been used to determine the structure of more than 80 biomolecules. However, most of the sample material is wasted. "The hit rate is typically less than two per cent of pulses, so most of the precious microcrystals end up unused in the collection container," says Meents, who is based at the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) in Hamburg, a cooperation of DESY, the University of Hamburg and the German Max Planck Society. The standard method therefore typically requires several hours of beamtime and significant amounts of sample material.

In order to use the limited beamtime and the precious sample material more efficiently, the team developed a new method. The scientists use a micro-patterned chip containing thousands of tiny pores to hold the protein crystals. The X-ray laser then scans the chip line by line, and ideally this allows a diffraction image to be recorded for each pulse of the laser.

The research team tested its method on two different virus samples using the LCLS X-ray laser at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in the US, which produces 120 pulses per second. They loaded their sample holder with a small amount of microcrystals of the bovine enterovirus 2 (BEV2), a virus that can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and infertility in cattle, and which is very difficult to crystallise.

In this experiment, the scientists achieved a hit rate - where the X-ray laser successfully targeted the crystal - of up to nine per cent. Within just 14 minutes they had collected enough data to determine the correct structure of the virus - which was already known from experiments at other X-ray light sources - down to a scale of 0.23 nanometres (millionths of a millimetre).

"To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time the atomic structure of an intact virus particle has been determined using an X-ray laser," Meents points out. "Whereas earlier methods at other X-ray light sources required crystals with a total volume of 3.5 nanolitres, we managed using crystals that were more than ten times smaller, having a total volume of just 0.23 nanolitres."

This experiment was conducted at room temperature. While cooling the protein crystals would protect them to some extent from radiation damage, this is not generally feasible when working with extremely sensitive virus crystals. Crystals of isolated virus proteins can, however, be frozen, and in a second test, the researchers studied the viral protein polyhedrin that makes up a viral occlusion body for up to several thousands of virus particles of certain species. The virus particles use these containers to protect themselves against environmental influences and are therefore able to remain intact for much longer times.

For the second test, the scientist loaded their chip with polyhedrin crystals and examined them using the X-ray laser while keeping the chip at temperatures below minus 180 degrees Celsius. Here, the scientists achieved a hit rate of up to 90 per cent. In just ten minutes they had recorded more than enough diffraction images to determine the protein structure to within 0.24 nanometres. "For the structure of polyhedrin, we only had to scan a single chip which was loaded with four micrograms of protein crystals; that is orders of magnitude less than the amount that would normally be needed," explains Meents.

"Our approach not only reduces the data collection time and the quantity of the sample needed, it also opens up the opportunity of analysing entire viruses using X-ray lasers," Meents sums up. The scientists now want to increase the capacity of their chip by a factor of ten, from 22,500 to some 200,000 micropores, and further increase the scanning speed to up to one thousand samples per second. This would better exploit the potential of the new X-ray free-electron laser European XFEL, which is just going into operation in the Hamburg region and which will be able to produce up to 27,000 pulses per second. Furthermore, the next generation of chips will only expose those micropores that are currently being analysed, to prevent the remaining crystals from being damaged by scattered radiation from the X-ray laser.

Researchers from the University of Oxford, the University of Eastern Finland, the Swiss Paul Scherrer Institute, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in the US and SLAC were also involved in the research. Diamond scientists have collaborated with the team at DESY, with much of the development and testing of the micro-patterned chip being done on Diamond's I02 and I24 beamlines.

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About Diamond:

Diamond Light Source is the UK's synchrotron science facility, and is approximately the size of Wembley Stadium. It works like a giant microscope, harnessing the power of electrons to produce bright light that scientists can use to study anything from fossils to jet engines to viruses and vaccines. Diamond is one of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world, and its pioneering capabilities are helping to keep the UK at the forefront of scientific research. 2017 marks a double celebration for Diamond - 15 years since the company was formed, and 10 years of research and innovation. In this time, researchers who have obtained their data at Diamond have authored over 5,000 papers.

About DESY:

Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY is one of the world's leading particle accelerator centres. Researchers use the large-scale facilities at DESY to explore the microcosm in all its variety - ranging from the interaction of tiny elementary particles to the behaviour of innovative nanomaterials and biomolecules to the fundamental mysteries of the universe. The accelerators and detectors that DESY develops and builds at its locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen are unique tools for science and research. DESY is a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest scientific organisation, and receives its funding from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) (90 per cent) and the German federal states of Hamburg and Brandenburg (10 per cent).

Reference

High-speed fixed-target serial virus crystallography; Philip Roedig, Helen M. Ginn, Tim Pakendorf, Geoff Sutton, Karl Harlos, Thomas S. Walter, Jan Meyer, Pontus Fischer, Ramona Duman, Ismo Vartiainen, Bernd Reime, Martin Warmer, Aaron S. Brewster, Iris D. Young, Tara Michels-Clark, Nicholas K. Sauter, Marcin Sikorsky, Silke Nelson, Daniel S. Damiani, Roberto Alonso-Mori, Jingshan Ren, Elizabeth E. Fry, Christian David, David I. Stuart, Armin Wagner, and Alke Meents; Nature Methods, 2017; DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.4335
Vienna, Austria - 19 June 2017: A novel smartphone application (app) has been developed that can direct first responders to cardiac arrest victims more than three minutes before the emergency services arrive. Each minute increases the chance of survival by 10%.

The EHRA First Responder App was created by the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), a registered branch of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).

"Sudden cardiac arrest is lethal within minutes if left untreated," said EHRA spokesperson Dr Christian Elsner. "In Europe, the emergency services arrive around nine minutes after a cardiac arrest. Every minute earlier raises the probability of survival by 10% and reduces the risk of brain injury, which starts four minutes after cardiac arrest."

If cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is initiated by a member of the public, this will in essence shorten the time between cardiac arrest and the urgently needed resuscitation measures. However, bystander resuscitation occurs in just of 30-60% of patients who have a cardiac arrest outside hospital.

The EHRA First Responder App was developed to increase the rate of bystander resuscitation and reduce the time between cardiac arrest and resuscitation. Based on GPS tracking technology, the app is used by existing emergency services (reached in many countries by dialling 112) to locate trained "app rescuers" and then automatically direct them to the scene of cardiac arrest. The target is for an app rescuer to arrive three to four minutes after the cardiac arrest.

In a typical scenario, after the cardiac arrest a bystander calls the emergency services. The operator dispatches an emergency crew and simultaneously locates nearby app rescuers. The nearest app rescuers are notified on their smartphones and the quickest responder is given directions, via the app, to the patient and then performs CPR. Other app rescuers can then additionally bring a nearby automated external defibrillator (AED).

The app was tested in Lubeck, Germany, where around 600 app rescuers were recruited. In 36% of cardiac arrests an app rescuer arrived more than three minutes before the emergency services. App rescuers were recruited through a local media campaign and 70% were already medically trained. The 30% without medical training took a basic life support course and committed to retaking it every two years.

"Recruitment of the app rescuers was no problem at all because people want to help," said Dr Elsner.

Project organisers are now asking emergency dispatch units (fire departments and hospitals) across Germany to connect to the app so that they have free access to the fleet of app rescuers.

"The software has a standard interface and can be easily connected to most emergency alert systems in Europe in just a few steps," said Dr Elsner. "We provide insurance for app users and we have a guarantee of data security from the German Department for Data Security in Schleswig-Holstein."

Dr Elsner concluded: "Ultimately we will roll the app out across Europe. We hope to raise bystander resuscitation rates to 70-90% and for cardiac arrest patients to be resuscitated in three to four minutes on average."

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For more information, visit: http://www.firstresponderapp.com
By Press Trust of India: By K J M Varma

Beijing, Jun 19 (PTI) Putting up a strong defence of BRICS, Chinese President Xi Jinping said today that the five- member bloc of emerging economies has not "faded its colour" in the first 10 years of its existence and is headed for a "new golden decade".

"BRICS countries are a community of shared interests and future," Xi told the foreign ministers of the bloc when they called on him today to discuss new ideas to revitalise the organisation.

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"The BRICS cooperation mechanism has traversed 10 years. I do not think it has faded at all in colour and going forward we are going to have (a) new golden decade," he said, urging the countries to give full play to the win-win spirit and jointly contribute to the development of the organisation.

The ministers, who met Xi, include Minister of State for External Affairs General (retd) V K Singh, Sergey Lavarov of Russia, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane of South Africa and Alosio Nunes Ferreira of Brazil.

China will host summit of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India China and South Africa) at Xiamen city in September.

The ministers meeting, the first such conference of the bloc, was called by China to discuss future course of action.

Earlier while putting up a solid defence of progress achieved by BRICS, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also spoke of BRICS Plus at a press meet but did not elaborate.

"China is ready to shoulder the important mission of opening up of the second decade of BRICS cooperation. China is ready for discussion on BRICS Plus cooperation pattern and forms," he said as Beijing took over this years rotating Presidency of the group from India.

At the Goa summit, India invited heads of the members of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) excluding Pakistan from the region.

China was expected to outline its proposals for the BRICS summit, specially the countries it plans to invite on its sidelines of the summit.

Answering a question on doubts being expressed over BRICS future, Wang said "there are some questioning voices. I think this shows the international community is paying attention to BRICS although there are different voices".

"BRICS cooperation is an eye catching one in todays arena," he said, adding that "whether or not BRICS is fading or not playing important role, China believes that the important attitude is seeing is believing".

According to IMF statistics, during the first 10 years, the total economic volume of the BRICS accounts for 23 per cent of global total instead of the past 12 per cent, Wang said, adding that the BRICS countries contributed to over 50 per cent of global economic growth.

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"All countries should recognise this fact, that is BRICS countries are making greater and greater contribution to global economic development," he said.

The world economy is still sluggish and many economies are facing difficulties and BRICS countries are no exception.

"But if we make a comparison horizontally, we can see BRICS economies are showing strong momentum strong vitality and broad prospects," Wang said.

The BRICS cooperation has already developed full fledged framework involving dialogue cooperation covering various fields. Besides the annual summits, it has over a dozen ministerial mechanisms involving multiple areas including meetings of National Security Advisors to discuss security matters and the foreign minister mechanism launched today.

"We also have CEO meeting and counsel of think-tanks. We have also set up a joint working group on terrorism and joint working group on cyber space affairs and have parliamentary interactions," Wang said, adding that the group can also uphold the legitimate rights of developing countries. PTI KJV CPS ASK CPS

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University of Texas at El Paso doctoral candidate Daniel Hughes has discovered three new species of chameleons. The reptile trio, historically thought to be a single species, was found in different parts of the Albertine Rift in Central Africa.

The findings recently were published in Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.

"We are hopeful that the formal descriptions of these three endemic chameleon species will be used to increase conservation awareness and galvanize transboundary protection efforts across these irreplaceable regions," Hughes said.

The specimens were collected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo between 2009 and 2014, mainly by Hughes' mentor Eli Greenbaum, Ph.D., associate professor of biological sciences. The location is rich with biodiversity, but because of political unrest, researchers have been reluctant to go there. Greenbaum has been traveling and conducting research in the area for about 10 years.

"We had this really nice dataset with samples collected all throughout the range of a particular species which meant we could really figure out its true diversity," Hughes said. "We took to the next step and ultimately described three new species."

Hughes joined Greenbaum three years ago in the field, and specifically came to UTEP to study under Greenbaum in 2013. The new scientist was able to describe the three new chameleon species after carefully analyzing geographical, morphological, and DNA data; a process that was followed by nearly two years of external confirmation.

Two of the new chameleons, Rugege Highlands Forest Chameleon (Kinyongia rugegensis), and Itombwe Forest Chameleon (Kinyongia itombwensis), are named after the mountain ranges in which they're found. The third chameleon, Tolley's Forest Chameleon (Kinyongia tolleyae), is named after herpetologist Krystal Tolley. Tolley, principal scientist at the South African National Biodiversity Institute in Cape Town, South Africa, has contributed significantly to chameleon research and first taught Hughes how to catch chameleons in Uganda.

"I think I went into shock when I found out, but also really happy," Tolley said. "I have been working on chameleons for many years, and they really are my main topic of research. So to have a species named after me, for a group of animals where I've invested most of my research career is such a privilege. I've also been lucky enough to actually see this species in Uganda, together with both Danny and Eli. It's a sassy little thing, which really makes it a good fit."

Hughes said the Albertine Rift (AR) is not only geologically unique, it also harbors more endemic vertebrate species than any other area of similar size on continental Africa.

"In these remote regions that are sometimes thousands of miles away from many people, it can be hard to relate," Hughes said. "So, hopefully with our work we can start to bridge that gap to broaden our awareness that everyone's actions have implications for these species from threatened regions they may never see. If conservation efforts in the various countries of the Albertine Rift cannot rapidly improve, many rare and potentially other new species will be lost."

There are 206 described species of chameleons on the planet and Hughes hopes to continue finding many more.

"A recent modeling study demonstrated that many habitats in the Albertine Rift, including those where the new species of chameleons are endemic, will likely be destroyed in the coming decades," Greenbaum said. "As chronicled in my forthcoming book "Emerald Labyrinth: A Scientist's Adventures in the Jungles of the Congo," the coming years will almost certainly be the last opportunity to discover new species in the rapidly declining forests of Central Africa."

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Edmonton--Patients with obesity have a higher risk of infection within 30 days after receiving heart bypass surgery, according to a series of studies conducted by University of Alberta researchers at the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine.

The team analyzed data from 56,722 patients in the provincial registry to examine associations between body mass index (BMI) and various outcomes following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty.

"Compared to patients with normal BMI, we found that patients with BMI greater than 30 were 1.9 times more likely to report infections after bypass surgery," said Tasuku Terada, a rehabilitation science postdoctoral research fellow who recently presented the series of studies at the Canadian Obesity Summit. "A better understanding is needed in order to improve clinical outcomes for patients with obesity and heart disease."

In addition, another study in the series published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that 88 per cent of patients who received PCI were classified as obese, compared to 55 per cent of the patients who received CABG. PCI is a non-surgical procedure that opens up narrowed arteries in the heart due to plaque buildup. The physician places a small stent to keep the artery open and help to prevent re-narrowing.

Terada says the risk of infection following CABG may explain why patients with obesity are more likely to receive PCI.

"We need to look at why there is more infection following CABG and whether more patients with obesity are receiving PCI because they should be, or because the risk is a factor in the decision made by health-care professionals," he says.

Postsurgical infection means an increase in the length of stay at the hospital for patients, resulting in increased medical costs and use of resources. Knowing the risks and potential outcomes can help health-care providers and patients make more informed choices on treatment and better use of resources.

Mary Forhan, obesity expert and assistant professor in occupational therapy at the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, believes that further investigation will help researchers develop tools to help decrease the risk of infection, and to ensure that patients are receiving proper care.

"For example, are the chest binders that are used after surgery the right size and are they working the right way?" she says. "Our team is currently looking at the re-design of postsurgical chest binders so that patients have better outcomes following bypass surgery."

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Take a walk in the boreal forest of Eastern Canada these days, and chances are you'll hear the sound of millions of caterpillars taking a dump. They're the spruce budworm, and they're on the move.

"It's a bit yucky," said Patrick James, a spatial ecologist with a doctorate in forest ecology who's a professor of ecological modeling in the department of biological sciences at Universite de Montreal.

"If you walk in the woods in an area that's being severely defoliated, it sounds like rain," said James, 37, who has a new scientific paper published on the budworm phenomenon. "It's all of their frass, the bug poo, falling through the canopy of the trees."

More than that, it's devastating the economy.

"There's a huge consequence for the forest industry," James said. "The budworm changes the composition of the forest, it denudes the trees and leaves behind huge areas of standing dead and dry timber. Most of those trees don't get harvested, they don't go to the sawmill, profits aren't made."

Budworm outbreaks will cost the industry in New Brunswick alone an estimated $3 billion to $4 billion over the next 30 years, according to a 2012 study by University of New Brunswick researchers. Timber revenue will be lost, so will jobs, and the consequences will amplify as budworm, grown into dime-size moths, head south.

And in their wake comes something else: fire.

In his study, published in February in the U.S. journal Ecological Applications, James shows that defoliation increases the risk of natural fires igniting eight to 10 years after a budworm outbreak - especially now, in the spring, before summer fire season starts. Interestingly, this risk actually decreases in the years immediately after an outbreak, since the "greenup" of ground vegetation keeps the soil moist and less likely to ignite.

Predicting the risk

For his study, James looked at defoliation data stretching back to 1963 in two vast ecosystems in eastern and central Ontario. These results suggest that fire management agencies, which normally rely on weather indicators, could also include defoliation data to better predict areas of high fire risk. Knowing when and where the fire risk is increased due to the budworm can lead to pro-active techniques like "salvage logging," harvesting dead trees from areas already defoliated.

"If you can reduce the amount of budworm-killed forests in an area, you would then reduce the risk of fire ignition, which would then reduce the probability of having large forest fires," James said.

The issue of how budworm affects fire is expected to become even more important in the future as both fire and insect activity is expected to increase due to climate change. However, how the interact and what sort of damage may result, remains uncertain.

Spruce budworm outbreaks happen every 35 years or so; the last one peaked in the early 1980s and the latest one began in Quebec in 2006. Natural Resources Canada warned last fall that while the impact is greatest on Quebec's North Shore and in the Gaspe and Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, where 7 million hectares have been defoliated, budworm has been spotted in New Brunswick and may spread to the Acadian Forest.

The process works like this. First, the budworm larvae eat away at the tops of trees -balsam fir, black and white spruce. After several years, the dead treetops break off in the wind and their debris builds up on the branches below. Lightning strikes the dry material, which ignites, while meanwhile down on the forest floor an accumulation of needles lies ready to ignite, too.

Hovering on the border

Unseen in urban environments like Montreal, the budworm are nevertheless getting closer. They can be spotted in Quebec's Mauricie region, an hour north of Trois Rivieres, and around Ville Marie, south of Rouyn-Noranda in the Abitibi region.

Where are the moths headed next?

"We're at an interesting point in the outbreak," said James. "Last year it increased, but at a slower rate. In Quebec's North Shore region, around Baie-Comeau, the budworm ate all they could, and with radar we detected great clouds of them on the move, migrating on the wind to areas that hadn't been so heavily affected, largely towards the south to the Lower St. Lawrence, the Gaspe and New Brunswick."

The moths are now "hovering on the New Brunswick border around Campbellton," he added, referring to a mass infestation that hit there last summer, when millions of larvae turned into moths and flew into town or were carried there by the wind, covering everything for miles around. "With that development, I would expect there'll be more activity in northern New Brunswick this year."

Can't the budworm be killed before they do their damage? Yes, but it's very expensive.

In the 1950s, authorities tried to contain budworm outbreaks by spraying infested areas with DDT. With that toxic method no longer an option, authorities now resort to a budworm-specific bacteria called Bt. The problem is price: DDT cost only a few cents per hectare to spray, whereas Bt costs $40 per hectare. "If you have $1 million worth of wood, it will cost you $1 million to spray it," James said. "The cost is prohibitive."

An early-warning system

There may be another solution, much cheaper: budworm tracking. Three summers ago, Canadian Forest Services appealed to the public to help track budworm in eastern Canada. Several hundred "citizen scientists" now lure, trap and count moths in six provinces, as well as Maine, uploading the data on an app and sending the dead moths to Natural Resources' main research laboratory in Fredericton, N.B.

It's a kind of early-warning system, suggesting how and where moths "disperse" and in what number. "The value is two-fold," said James, who's involved in the program at an analytical level, using spatial modeling and genetics. "It helps us understand if budworm populations are increasingly locally, which is a problem, or are migrating from somewhere else, flying in and then dying, which is less of a problem."

In the end, knowing more about the spruce budworm - its life cycle, its behaviour, its migratory patterns - will help make its infestations easier to control. And once they're better understood, plans can be made to cope with the pesky beasts when they arrive.

The urgency is greater than ever, James said.

"We're now in the 10th year of the current outbreak, with 7 million hectares of forest in Quebec alone that has been defoliated and directly affected by the spruce budworm. The last outbreak (in the '80s) peaked at 45 to 50 million hectares," he said.

"So it's pretty clear to me: Things are going to get worse before they get better."

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A major new international study has revealed for the first time that some features in a baby's DNA can increase the risk of its mother developing pre-eclampsia -- a potentially dangerous condition in pregnancy.

These results from the InterPregGen study are published in Nature Genetics. The work was carried out by genetics experts from the UK, Nordic countries and Central Asia and is the first to show an effect of DNA from the fetus on the health of its mother.

Pre-eclampsia affects up to 5% of pregnancies and is first suspected when a woman is found to have high blood pressure, usually in the second half of pregnancy. The condition can cause serious complications including fits, stroke, liver and blood problems and in some cases the death of mother and baby.

The 5-year study involved teams from the UK, Iceland, Finland, Norway, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. They studied the genetic make-up of 4,380 babies born from pre-eclamptic pregnancies and compared their DNA with over 300,000 healthy individuals.

Dr Linda Morgan, from the University of Nottingham's School of Life Sciences, coordinated the 5-year study, which included DNA samples contributed from Iceland, Norway and Finland as well as from over 20 universities and maternity units in the UK.

Dr Morgan says: "For many years midwives and obstetricians have known that a woman is more likely to develop pre-eclampsia if her mother or sister had the disorder. More recently research has shown that the condition also runs in the families of men who father pre-eclamptic pregnancies. We knew that faulty formation of the placenta is often found in pre-eclampsia. As it is the baby's genes that produce the placenta we set out to see if we could find a link between the baby's DNA and the condition. We found there were indeed some features in a baby's DNA that can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia."

Laboratory and statistical analysis performed at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute (UK) and deCODE Genetics (Iceland) pinpointed the location in the baby's DNA that increases risk of pre-eclampsia. This location was confirmed by other InterPregGen members to fit hand-in-glove with other medical information about pre-eclampsia.

Dr Ralph McGinnis, who led the analysis at the Sanger Institute, said: "Pre-eclampsia has been recognized since ancient Egypt and Greece as being a danger to the lives of mothers and babies. This first piece of the genetic jigsaw holds substantial promise for unlocking some of the mystery of how pre-eclampsia is caused. Our finding may also enable better prediction of mothers who will become pre-eclamptic when combined with clinical information and with other pieces of the genetic jigsaw that will also surely be discovered in the next few years."

The baby's DNA comes from both its mother's and its father's genes - in keeping with the inherited risk of pre-eclampsia. The DNA changes associated with pre-eclampsia are common -- over 50% of people carry this sequence in their DNA so the inherited changes are not sufficient in themselves to cause disease, but they do increase the risk of pre-eclampsia.

The research found DNA variations close to the gene that makes a protein called sFlt-1 with significant differences between the babies born from pre-eclamptic pregnancies and the control group. At high levels sFlt-1 released from the placenta into the mother's bloodstream can cause damage to her blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure and damage to her kidneys, liver and brain - all features of pre-eclampsia. If a baby carried these genetic variants it increased the risk of that pregnancy being pre-eclamptic.

Dr Morgan concludes: "Because pre-eclampsia has its origins in the very early stages of pregnancy, during the formation of the placenta, research into the causes and processes of the disease has always been challenging. Now modern genome wide screening and its data analysis allows us to look for clues in the mother's, father's and their baby's DNA. We believe the new insights from this study could form the basis for more effective prevention and treatment of pre-eclampsia in the future, and improve the outcome of pregnancy for mother and child."

DNA from a further 4,220 babies from pre-eclamptic pregnancies in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is currently being analysed in an extended study to see if the same variations occur near sFlt-1.

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The research was funded by a 6 million Euro grant from the European Commission.
Huge pulses of volcanic activity are likely to have played a key role in triggering the end Triassic mass extinction, which set the scene for the rise and age of the dinosaurs, new Oxford University research has found.

The Triassic extinction took place approximately 200 million years ago, and was proceeded by the dinosaur era. One of the largest mass extinctions of animal life on record, the casualty list includes large crocodile-like reptiles and several marine invertebrates. The event also caused huge changes in land vegetation, and while it remains a mystery why the dinosaurs survived this event, they went on to fill the vacancies left by the now extinct wildlife species, alongside early mammals and amphibians. This mass extinction has long been linked to a large and abrupt release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, but the exact source of this emission has been unknown.

Following the discovery of volcanic rocks of the same age as the extinction, volcanic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions had previously been suggested as an important contributor to this extinction event. Previous studies have also shown that this volcanism might have occurred in pulses, but the global extent and potential impact of these volcanic episodes has remained unknown. These volcanic rocks covered a huge area, across four continents, representing the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP).

Researchers from the Oxford University Department of Earth Science worked in collaboration with the Universities of Exeter and Southampton to trace the global impact of major volcanic gas emissions and their link to the end of the Triassic period. The findings link volcanism to the previously observed repeated large emissions of carbon dioxide that had a profound impact on the global climate, causing the mass extinction at the end of the Triassic Period, as well as slowing the recovery of animal life afterwards.

By investigating the mercury content of sedimentary rocks deposited during the extinction, the study findings revealed clear links in the timing of CAMP volcanism and the end-Triassic extinction. Volcanoes give off mercury gas emissions, which spread globally through the atmosphere, before being deposited in sediments. Any sediments left during a large volcanic event would therefore be expected to have unusually high mercury content.

The team sourced six sediment deposits were sourced from the UK, Austria, Argentina, Greenland, Canada and Morocco, and their mercury levels analysed. Five of the six records showed a large increase in mercury content beginning at the end-Triassic extinction horizon, with other peaks observed between the extinction horizon and the Triassic-Jurassic boundary, which occurred approximately 200 thousand years later.

Elevated mercury emissions also coincided with previously established increases in atmospheric CO2 concentrations, indicating CO2 release from volcanic degassing.

Lawrence Percival, Lead author and Geochemistry Graduate student at Oxford University, said: 'These results strongly support repeated episodes of volcanic activity at the end of the Triassic, with the onset of volcanism during the end-Triassic extinction.

'This research greatly strengthens the link between the Triassic mass extinction and volcanic emissions of CO2. This further evidence of episodic emissions of volcanic CO2 as the likely driver of the extinction enhances our understanding of this event, and potentially of other climate change episodes in Earth's history.'

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Notes to editors:

The full paper features in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and the citation is Mercury evidence for pulsed volcanism during the end-Triassic mass extinction Lawrence M.E. Percival1, Micha Ruhl1, Stephen Hesselbo2, Hugh Jenkyns1, Tamsin Mather1, Jessica Whiteside3

Images are available from: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ie40eudkq04zclw/AAAnh8vcPq3fUt6WhnlmJ2wsa?dl=0

All are field shots from some of the remote locations highlighted in the paper and the release.

For interviews or supporting images please contact: Lanisha Butterfield, Media Relations Manager on 01865 280531 or lanisha.butterfield@admin.ox.ac.uk

The Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division (MPLS) is one of four academic divisions at the University of Oxford, representing the non-medical sciences. Oxford is one of the world's leading universities for science, and MPLS is at the forefront of scientific research across a wide range of disciplines. Research in the mathematical, physical and life sciences at Oxford was rated the best in the UK in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) assessment. MPLS received 133m in research income in 2014/15.
A new review indicates that there is a massive problem of self-medication misuse in the Middle East. The findings, which are published in Pharmacology Research & Perspectives, indicate the need for better patient and physician education, as well as improved policies that restrict sales of prescription medications without a prescription.

Self-medication is not limited to over-the-counter medicines. Patients self-medicate with prescription medicines that may have been prescribed and left over from a previous time. Also, even though it's not authorized, in some countries individuals sometimes buy prescription medicines directly from community pharmacies, especially for the short-term treatment of common diseases.

In the Middle East, prescription medicines can easily be purchased without a prescription, resulting in potential misuse and unnecessary risk. To examine self-medication misuse in the Middle East, Dr. Malak Khalifeh, of the Bordeaux University in France, and her colleagues conducted an extensive review of literature published between 1990 and 2015.

The team identified a total of 72 papers. Medicines involved in misuse included codeine containing products, topical anesthetics, topical corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, and antibiotics. Self-medication misuse seemed widespread, and pharmacists, friends, and parents were the main sources of medications. One study noted that pharmacies in Iran sold 57% of prescription items without a prescription. Another found that in Syria, 87% of 200 pharmacies visited agreed to sell antibiotics without a prescription. This figure increased to 97% when the investigators who were at first denied antibiotics insisted on having the antibiotics. In Saudi Arabia, only one attendant pharmacist refused to dispense medications without a prescription. Strategies and interventions to limit misuse were rarely mentioned in studies.

The findings indicate that there is a serious problem of self-medication misuse in the Middle East involving a range of medicines. "There is a relative lack of literature relating to self-medication misuse in the Middle East, and there has been relatively little systematic research on this topic, partly due to the perception that self-mediation misuse is not as problematic as other types of drug abuse," said Dr. Khalifeh. "This review has found a massive problem, and it could be used as a reference for multiple research studies that deal with self-medication misuses in Middle Eastern countries."

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Additional Information

Full Citation: "Self-medication misuse in the Middle East: a systematic literature review." Malak M. Khalifeh, Nicholas D. Moore, and Pascale R. Salameh. Pharma Res Per; Published Online: June 19, 2017 (DOI: 10.1002/prp2.323).

Link to Study: http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/prp2.323

About the Journal

Pharmacology Research & Perspectives (PR&P) is a collaboration between the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET), the British Pharmacological Society (BPS) and Wiley. PR&P is an open access journal that publishes original research, reviews and perspectives in all areas of preclinical and clinical pharmacology, education and related research areas.

About Wiley

Wiley, a global company, helps people and organizations develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Our online scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly journals, combined with our digital learning, assessment and certification solutions help universities, learned societies, businesses, governments and individuals increase the academic and professional impact of their work. For more than 200 years, we have delivered consistent performance to our stakeholders. The company's website can be accessed at http://www.wiley.com.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could be a bigger cause of death than cancer by 2050, scientists have said.

Scientists attended a meeting called by the N8 Agrifood at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire to produce research on AMR in livestock.

They said it is one of the biggest threats facing future global healthcare. Experts predict by 2050 AMR will be a bigger cause of death than cancer.

It occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria and parasites, change when they are exposed to antibiotics and antivirals.

Professor Jonathan Rushton, N8 chair in Animal Health and Food Systems Economics

In the UK, 5,000 deaths per year are reported as a result of AMR, according to N8 AgriFood.

If not tackled, the scientists said, it is believed that it may reach a stage of making medical procedures, such as childbirth, too risky to perform.

The industry forum, co-hosted by the National Farmers' Union (NFU) and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), invited 55 experts to share ideas about the discovery of new antimicrobials.

Professor Jonathan Rushton, N8 chair in Animal Health and Food Systems Economics, led the high level session, which focused on how to measure AMR, comparing antimicrobials to their alternatives and how to communicate information around the issue.

'Focus of scientific attention'

Global food production will also be under threat unless solutions to AMR are identified.

The N8 AgriFood programme is leading the drive to identify and initiate partnerships for exchange, research and funding that will help to influence government policy, improve knowledge around antimicrobial resistance and to develop new strategies.

Prof Rushton, who also works for the Institute of Infection and Global Health at the University of Liverpool, said: "Antimicrobial resistance in food animal production systems has recently become the focus of considerable scientific attention.

There is now a consensus that AMR represents a 'One Health/Ecohealth' challenge that urgently needs to be tackled by the international community.

Prof Rushton continued: "A number of high-level reports have indicated the urgency to formulate and conduct interventions to curb antimicrobial usage and AMR, both in human medicine as well as in animal production.

"We will focus on building agrifood systems that are sustainable and safe and a clear message has been sent that antimicrobial use in agriculture needs to be reduced.

"In the livestock sector the issues are so complex we believe that solutions can only be found through developing partnerships between governments, private industry and academia."
The Queen's Birthday Honours list has been released, recognising more than 1,000 people for commitment to public service.

In the farming sector, main recipients include prominent Scottish farmer and agricultural politician John Cameron, farm animal welfare Professor Laura Green and Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) chairman Jim McClaren have received honours.

Fife farmer James Cameron is a former President of NFU Scotland. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Society, and was awarded a CBE for his work in Scottish farming.

QMS Chairman Jim McLaren has been awarded an MBE. Mr McLaren, who farms in Perthshire, has been chairman of QMS since 2011, after serving as President of NFU Scotland from 2007 to 2011.

He is a director of NFU Mutual and a director of Angus Cereals. He has also served on the board of SRUC (Scotlands Rural College) and is a trustee of The Cameron Trust.

Mr McLaren said he was surprised and delighted to have received the award.

It has been a huge privilege for me to have worked in, and for, the Scottish agricultural industry in the various roles I have undertaken to date, said Mr McLaren.

'Deeply honoured'

Professor Laura Green, currently Head of the School of Life Sciences at the University of Warwick, has been appointed an OBE for her services to the health and welfare of farmed livestock.

Professor Greens research motivation is to improve the health and welfare of farm animals. She has researched into a number of diseases and disorders in sheep, cattle, pigs and hens.

Her most notable research has been 17 years studying lameness in sheep with scientists from a wide range of disciplines.

She has played a key role in translating research results into practice and the level of lameness in sheep in England has halved over 10 years, saving 1 million sheep per year from becoming lame.

Professor Green said: I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It has been my lifes ambition to improve the health and welfare of farm animals.

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have worked with so many excellent policy makers, scientists, vets and farmers to produce evidence that has improved the quality of life of farm animals.

Other recipients include William Campbell, who has been awarded an OBE for services to agriculture, and Professor Christopher Elliott, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, Queen's University, Belfast who has been awarded an OBE for services to the agri-food supply chain.
There are 'huge opportunities' in being out of the European Union for the fishing and farming industry, newly appointed Defra minister Michael Gove has said.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme this morning (19 June) he said getting out of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) means British farmers will be 'better protected' than ever before.

"We believe we can get a good deal for Britain," he said.

"We want to forge new trade deals with other countries. There are huge opportunities in being outside the European Union.

"Taking back control of our territorial waters means that we can revive the fishing industry.

"Getting out of CAP means that we can ensure that our farmers are better protected than ever before. We can also ensure that we have higher environmental and animal welfare standards."

For Michael Gove, Defra faces some of the toughest challenges of any Government department as Brexit looms.

Outgoing Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron has already attacked Gove for 'u-turning on cheap food'.

'Little closer to knowing'

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has written an open letter to Gove, outlining wants and needs of the farming industry ahead of uncertain times.

The CAP, which many farmers rely on, will have to be replaced with a UK-focused system.

Speaking at the opening of Cereals 2017, NFU President Meurig Raymond said: We are still a whole year on from the Brexit referendum, little closer to knowing what future Brexit holds for us.

We dont know what our future trading relationship will be with the EU  our biggest trading partner by some way in agri-food products; we dont know how a future immigration system in the UK will work, and how farmers can be sure theyll continue to have access to the highly specialised workforce required in many sectors; and we dont know how public policy will support agriculture in future in mitigating volatility, improving productivity and delivering environmental goods once we are no longer subject to the Common Agricultural Policy.

Vicki Hird, Sustainable Farming Campaign Coordinator for the Sustain alliance, said the next government has a 'once in a lifetime opportunity' with Brexit and changing CAP.

She said: "[It should] end some of the absurdities of Europe's Common Agricultural Policy, which has not supported small and family farms well and which contributed to a loss of farmland diversity and wildlife.

"Our alliance proposals present a practical way forward and a basis that the Government could use for common ground between the industry, and those groups championing the rural economy, conservation, public health and development."
A nationwide competition which aims to celebrate the best of British farm life has found a winner.

Certas Energy challenged people in the UK to submit their best farm life photographs.

From fuzzy highland cattle to newborn lambs, and farmers cradling their newest additions, to children playfully chasing after livestock, the photos were diverse and explored every angle of rural life.

The competition received more than 130 entries from all over the country, depicting modern agriculture and farm life for families living in rural areas across the UK.

The winner was Lola Bellouere from Manchester, who submitted a photograph of her first born lambs at spring.

The photo was taken at Oddendale Farm in the Lake District next door to her grandmother's house.

'Importance of British agriculture'

Runners up included everything from nurturing sheepdogs looking after their owners newest arrivals, to an array of highland cows caught on camera and farmers showing off their prized vintage tractors, all of which can be found in the online gallery on Certas Energys website.

Angus Blundell, Director of Marketing at Certas Energy, said: We decided to run this competition to highlight the importance of British agriculture and showcase the beauty of the British countryside in our new online gallery.

Spring is a busy time for the farming industry and we wanted to run this competition in celebration of all their hard efforts.

We were very impressed with all the entries we received and it was really difficult to pick an overall winner, but we feel that Lola really captured the essence of what British farm life is all about.
British Prime Minister said that the London mosque attack, in which one person died, was being treated as a terrorist strike.

By Reuters: British Prime Minister, Theresa May, said regarding an incident which left one dead and 10 others injured near a London mosque which was treated as a potential terrorist attack.

"Police have confirmed this is as a potential terrorist attack," May said. "I will chair an emergency meeting later this morning."

"All my thoughts are with the victims, their families and the emergency services on the scene," she said.

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UK PM May says, mosque incident being treated as a potential terrorist attack

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More Brits are choosing food for health reasons at meal times  with a growing trend towards fresh and natural, according to a new report.

Enjoyment and practicality remain the key linchpin for the majority of meal choices but over the last year, health as a reason for choosing food has grown at a faster rate than both of these well-established motives and according to Kantar Worldpanel is up 14% on five years ago.

Findings also show consumers are satisfying their desire to eat healthily by preparing meals from scratch which suggests they want greater control over the ingredients.

These latest trends form part of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Boards (AHDB) Consumer Insight report, Health Through the Eyes of the Consumer  which was unveiled at the Nuffield International Conference in Nottingham.

It examines health from the consumers perspective and picks out the challenges and opportunities in meeting the needs of the modern consumer.

'Consumer landscape is changing'

AHDB senior analyst Steven Evans said the consumer landscape is changing and so are expectations.

Health is incredibly important and, by the end of 2016, the proportion of food servings in the home chosen for health reasons stood at 32%. Its an area which is growing at a faster rate than that of enjoyment so its certainly a trend to watch.

Its important to remember that health can mean different things to different people. One area more obvious than others is that its consumed for a focused health benefit such as being high in fibre or a good source of calcium.

However, the strongest rise in the last 12 months came from those looking for more natural and less processed food, which we believe points to consumers wanting greater control over whats going into their meals.

This provides a good opportunity for producers of fresh and chilled products  especially those who can clearly communicate their health messaging to consumers.

'Flexitarian'

The industry has recently become more familiar with the term flexitarian, which can have differing definitions associated  one of which is people who are eating less red meat for health reasons.

Currently, 7% of the British population count themselves as flexitarian, putting pressure on the red meat category.

However, the AHDB Consumer Tracker does point towards the majority of people eating about the same level of red meat (74%).

Mr Evans said: Findings from AHDBs Consumer Tracker point towards red meat standing behind chicken and fish in consumers stating its good for you.
AHDB publishes five-year plans for how levy will be invested
Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Sergio Perez (MEX) Force India at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Esteban Ocon (FRA) Force India on the drivers parade at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Force India Sergio Perez There were a lot of things said after Montreal and lots of different opinions, but Im pleased the team decided to let us race without team orders. I will always fight for the best result for the team and Im proud of our race. There were discussions on the radio about switching positions with Esteban, but my pace was good and I was running close to Daniel [Ricciardo] for almost 50 laps. I knew my best chance to overtake was during the lapped traffic and I got very close, but we didnt have the pace advantage to make the move. I feel positive after Montreal. The car was quick and we were competitive. It was always going to be one of our best circuits of the year, but we still had to deliver. Its a good sign for Baku  another track with long straights and big braking zones. I always enjoy street tracks and the team has done a fantastic job to develop the car during the last few races. I think we will be in good shape this weekend too. The memories from last years race in Baku are still very strong. We had great pace and I loved the track layout. To recover from a gearbox penalty and still finish on the podium was a very special feeling. It was definitely one of my best weekends in Formula One. If we can find the sweet spot again this year I think we can fight for some big points. Esteban Ocon I really enjoyed my first experience of driving in Montreal. When I got out of the car it felt as though I had only been racing for 15 minutes because everything went by so quickly  thats when you know youre having fun! It was another weekend where the team did a fantastic job improving the cars. Every time we went out in practice and qualifying, we took a step forward and thats been one of our strengths this year. It felt great to be in the battle for a podium and to see how competitive we are as a team. It makes me feel excited about going to Baku and what we can achieve there. It feels like weve got a really good understanding of how to get the most from this car. Its another new track for me, but Ill keep trying to learn as fast as possible and Im sure I can get on the pace quickly. Ive been playing some computer games to learn the track so Ive done my homework.



Baku is a great destination for Formula One. Street races always generate a special atmosphere and the city is really cool. I was able to explore a bit last year so I know my way around the place and Ive walked the track, but Ive yet to drive there. Tom McCullough, Chief Race Engineer At 6.003km, Baku is the second longest circuit of the year, making the race just 51 laps long. Its also the first anti-clockwise track on which we run this season and another big test for the brakes, with plenty of big stops. We know much more about this street circuit than we did one year ago, when we came here for the very first time, so the learning curve wont be as steep once we start practice on Friday. However, it is a new track for Esteban, so giving him track time will be a priority. Set-up wise, there are significant long straights which will require lower drag level wings. The majority of grip-limited corners are low speed so the car needs to be strong there. It can be very hot in Azerbaijan at this time of the year and we will need to prepare to handle those conditions, if required. Most importantly, we will need to set up a car in which our drivers can be confident: like in Monaco and Montreal, many of the corners are lined with walls so precision is an absolutely key element. Vijay Mallya, team principal There is a lot of optimism ahead of this weekend. Last year Baku turned out to be a good race for the team and we believe we can deliver another strong performance this year. The progress weve made with the VJM10 since the start of the season has been considerable and we have brought developments to the car at every race so far. All the hard work is paying off and Im proud of our results.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Felipe Massa (BRA) Williams at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Practice, Montreal, Canada, Friday 9 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Lance Stroll (CDN) Williams at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Practice, Montreal, Canada, Friday 9 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Williams Felipe Massa Im really looking forward to returning to such a nice country, and to a unique race track, which is in the heart of the city. Theres a lot of 90-degree corners and a flat out section from Turn 16 all the way down the long straight to Turn 1, where we reach some really high speeds. We had a double points finish there last year, and after my early retirement in Canada I hope we can come away with another strong result and some good points.



Lance Stroll Going to Baku will be a totally new experience as not only have I never been there before, but last year when the race was on I missed it on TV as I was competing somewhere else. I dont know what it is like yet as I havent done any simulator work and usually do this just before I fly to the race. The stories I have heard are of a really cool place and so I am really looking forward to seeing it for myself. It is yet another new experience and new country for me which is something else that I find exciting about Formula One. However, this will be my last new experience for a while as I have already raced at the next handful of tracks. Paddy Lowe, Chief Technical Officer It was an exciting first race in Azerbaijan last year and now we understand the circuit we can return more prepared for a second Grand Prix. Baku City Circuit is a 6km anticlockwise street circuit with some similarities to Canada in terms of set-up and characteristic, so we would hope to see a similar performance level for the FW40. Its one of the hottest races of the year, with the record highest average temperature for this month being 39C, so it will require endurance from both the drivers and the team to stay at peak performance. Overall, its a great city which we all enjoyed exploring last year. Felipe is familiar with the track and is currently on top form, so will put the disappointment of the unfortunate accident in Canada out of his mind to aim for a result he deserves. We also look forward to a positive weekend for Lance, building on his first Formula One points finish in Canada two weeks ago.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Nico Hulkenberg (GER) Renault Sport F1 Team at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Jolyon Palmer (GBR) Renault Sport F1 Team at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Qualifying, Montreal, Canada, Saturday 10 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Renault Nico Hulkenberg It is still a new venue to Formula 1 which is exciting, we are still getting used to it. Going through the old town is cool with the narrow walls, but it takes time to learn the track. I am usually good at adapting quickly and learning new tracks and new lines. It is exotic and a bit different here. There are some cool looking, vintage houses around. The old castle brick wall has a blind entry which is unique, Monaco is spacious in comparison! There are some walls waiting for you so it is important to be quite brave. The viewing is good for fans and the speed is cool to watch. It is the fastest street circuit on the calendar. Overtaking will be possible with the long, DRS straights. There are a lot of tight, 90-degree turns matched with flat-out kinks, so I am looking forward to racing it. The castle complex of turns 8 to 10 will be especially close with the wider cars. It was obviously unfamiliar surroundings last year as we were all new to the track. But I had a positive weekend, qualifying in twelfth place before making up a couple of places in the race to come home in ninth with two points. I remember the first practice session last year and really enjoying the track as it was different and had a bit of everything. The weekend was pleasing so hopefully we can build on that this year, especially with our recent form. Jolyon Palmer I think it is a cool track, there are some high-speed sections - especially for a street circuit - and overtaking is a possibility. The middle sector is busy and difficult with its undulation and the sector is extremely tight. Any mistakes on a street circuit tend to mean you are into the wall, so you have to be alert. It is wider than Monaco, apart from through the castle section. Youve got to get as close to the walls as you can to open up the line and carry the speed through. Ive loved street circuits ever since I drove Marrakesh in F2 and then Monaco in GP2. Ive always got on well with them. Im looking forward to getting back out on another city circuit and approaching it very differently to Monaco and building up a little bit more. Its great when youre so dialled in and you get close to the walls; thats the best buzz for us. That is two eleventh place finishes in a row. I think in Baku we can at least be in the top ten, maybe top eight. We are doing well at the moment, we will keep going and I am feeling strong, I need to work on qualifying pace and being higher on the grid. It is going to be very hot and it is very windy in the city, so that could affect us as well. The wind affects the airflow over the car. Weve had cars crash in the past because of a sudden, big gust of wind and these F1 cars are very sensitive. Race day in Canada was like that, it was very windy especially across the back straight! Baku is by the coast as well so you could get a bit of coastal wind coming in, according to my GCSE geography It is always tricky getting to grips with a new circuit, it is very high speed and it brought a lot of challenges (last year). We now know where the bumps are and which gears to use. I qualified on the final row last year and managed to work my way up to fifteenth in the race. I think I put in the eighth fastest lap of the race which is very positive, I am looking forward to getting out there and building on that knowledge. Nick Chester, Technical Director It was a pretty tricky place last year on the circuits Formula 1 debut. It has a bit of a Monaco styled section but with some long straights down the back. It is a bit bumpy and a very difficult place for both set-up and driving. We will need good braking stability as it is hard braking with hard and tight corner entries. It has a tricky mix and we probably need three different cars; one for each section! We have got a few updates, including bodywork. We have some things to try on suspension to improve the handling and also an update to the cooling system to improve the performance a little bit. What we learned from Canada will be useful for Baku especially in terms of hard braking. Cyril Abiteboul, Renault Sport Racing Managing Director Baku will mark the inaugural Azerbaijan Grand Prix after the circuit made its debut in the European Grand Prix last year. Its an event were looking forward to as its another opportunity for us to improve and develop, which are the keywords for our season. Baku is an especially exciting and testing circuit on the Formula 1 calendar and it is important that we add to our success from Canada with another points haul. Baku presents a fairly similar task to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with some long straights finishing in hard-braking zones. Everything we learned in Montreal should be very useful for building towards a clearer picture for Azerbaijan. Last year was a step into the unknown but there is a positive feeling this time around as we have the know-how on what to expect.

Enlarge Marcus Ericsson (SWE) Sauber and Pascal Wehrlein (GER) Sauber at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Sauber Marcus Ericsson This will be our second trip to Baku  definitely an interesting location. It is a city track with long straights and interesting corner combinations, making it quite special. Last season, relatively high track temperatures had an impact on our tyre management. I expect that we will have similar conditions this year. As a team, our goal remains to make further progress in improving the performance of our car. Pascal Wehrlein I am really looking forward to getting back into the car in Baku. Last years race weekend in Azerbaijan was quite interesting for all of us, because it was the first time that a Formula 1 GP took place there. Finding the suitable car set-up for this track was a challenge to all of the teams. Due to the layout of the track, top speed and traction are the key factors for success.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Carlos Sainz jr (ESP) Scuderia Toro Rosso STR12 fans selfie at Formula One World Championship, Rd6, Monaco Grand Prix, Monte-Carlo, Monaco, Friday 26 May 2017.  Sutton Images Daniil Kvyat (RUS) Scuderia Toro Rosso at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Qualifying, Montreal, Canada, Saturday 10 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Toro Rosso Carlos Sainz You can't compare the Baku track layout to Monaco, even if it's a street circuit It's not better or worse, just different. It's a very tough circuit to race at  I wouldn't say it's tougher than Monaco, but it gets quite close to it and any small mistake can be critical, so you have to stay concentrated and focused at all times. I enjoyed it there last year, I think it was quite a special race It was just a shame I couldn't get to finish it, because I was enjoying it a lot out there. I remember having very good battles with the McLarens and Red Bulls and there was no rest. We don't get to enjoy the views while we drive at 300kph, but one of the things I like the most of Baku is the medieval castle that becomes part of the backdrop while racing there  some of the photos of this race are unique! One of the things I like the most is that our hotel is very close to the track Literally just outside the Paddock entrance! This is perfect, as you get to sleep a bit more and feel much more comfortable as you have all your stuff only a couple of minutes away from the garage. If you want to, you can even go to the toilet in your room during the day! It was great to be able to meet Enrique Iglesias in Baku last year. He's a great guy and not only I enjoyed it  my sisters are great fans and they were extremely happy to be able to spend some time with him. I remember them being quite nervous and it made me laugh. They also got to go to his concert that weekend, and again this year in Bahrain! I listen to his music a lot in the summer! Daniil Kvyat The track is unique, which makes it a very cool venue to go racing at. It's an impressive layout: the straight is unbelievably long and then suddenly you get to a very narrow section, where you're just kissing the walls. Only one car at a time can pass here, which makes racing a challenge. There's a 'Monaco' section but, at the same time, there's also a 'Monza' section, so it's a particular track and I like it. Last year we had a very good qualifying session in Baku  I was P7 and our pace was good. I even started the race P6 It's just a shame that we were not able to finish the race. Hopefully this year we will have a better ending to the weekend. Scoring points at a race where we haven't been able to do so yet is always a target  to score points for the first time at any track is always a good feeling and hopefully we can have a good race there this year and score some!

Even if I wanted to, I didn't have much time to walk around Baku last year, but this year I'd really like to, as it seems to offer an interesting combination of old and modern architecture. One of the things I'd like to do is visit the Heydar Aliyev Centrethat building is really cool!

Mercedes Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Its always interesting to discover new places and I really didnt know what to expect going to Azerbaijan for the first time last year. Theyve done a great job with the circuit, the city centre is beautiful, the infrastructure works well and our hosts look after us well, so Im looking forward to going back again.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Fernando Alonso (ESP) McLaren on the grid at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Stoffel Vandoorne (BEL) McLaren at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

McLaren Fernando Alonso Baku is a great city, and after the success of last years inaugural grand prix Im really looking forward to going racing again in Azerbaijan. As a Baku Ambassador, Ive spent more time there than a lot of my peers and colleagues, and its a really cool location to host a Formula 1 race. We literally drive straight through the centre of the historical old town and the old city walls make the perfect setting for this race in a new territory for the sport. After getting so close to scoring our first point in Canada and suffering another retirement, we go to Baku with even more determination, but its no secret that we expect to find this weekend tricky. After the power unit issues its likely well need to take penalties, and the nature of the narrow, fast straights and tight corners means overtaking is generally tough. However, its certainly not impossible, and well keep fighting as we always do. Baku City Circuit is the fastest street track on the calendar, so from a drivers perspective its really exciting to be racing at such high speeds with the walls closing in on you either side. As usual, the starts are always one of the most crucial points of the race for us, so getting the set-up just right on Friday in time for qualifying on Saturday will be the most important thing. Stoffel Vandoorne Im excited about racing in Baku for the first time. Ive spent quite a lot of time in the simulator driving the track already  and I did last year too, to help the engineers prepare for a new circuit  so it doesnt actually feel too unfamiliar. The circuit is a real mix of great characteristics from other tracks  high speeds and long straights but also close racing and heavy braking for the tight corners on the infield section of this street circuit layout. It has a bit of everything so theres a lot for our engineers to work on. Its heavy on fuel consumption and puts high loads on the ERS, so well need to try to optimise our package to adapt to the demands that the weekend will throw at us. Canada was a disappointing race for the whole team, and we dont expect Baku to offer us any particular surprises in terms of performance, but were learning all the time and working hard to get on top of our issues. Weve already regrouped and we continue to look forward, and well approach next weekend the same way we do every race weekend  fighting hard and trying to extract everything we can from the package beneath us. Eric Boullier, Racing Director After the frustrations we felt in Montreal, we move to what is another fascinating city in Baku, for the second race in the citys history at the newly renamed Azerbaijan Grand Prix. In Canada we were unable to fulfil any potential we showed during the weekend, and we anticipate that in Baku we will face a similar challenge due to the demands this circuits characteristics place on the car. Nevertheless, in the midst of our current struggles, we arent standing still. Quite the opposite, in fact, and the teams hunger and determination are stronger than ever to move us forward and into the hunt for more positive results. Rather than focus on the negatives, we need to turn our attention to solutions and work together to get the best out of our situation. Although we know this weekend wont be easy, the backdrop of the stunning old town and medieval walls of Baku offer a dramatic arena for more great racing. The atmosphere during our first visit there last year was incredible and the support we received from the fans was fantastic. In terms of location, it couldnt be better: the team stays at the Hilton situated downtown  indeed precisely overlooking the start-finish line  and places us on the doorstep of the stunning city centre, where we hope we will be able to make the most of an enjoyable weekend. Yusuke Hasegawa, Honda R&D Co. Ltd Head of F1 Project & Executive Chief Engineer This season will mark just our second visit to Baku, and after a disappointing end to our Canadian Grand Prix weekend were looking forward to moving on to the Azerbaijan capital. The race is not back-to-back this year so were fortunate to have extra time back at the factory to analyse and understand the data collected in Canada. However, were under no illusions that this weekend will be straightforward for us  Baku City Circuit has one of the longest straights of any Formula 1 track at over 2km (1.243 miles) and is a notoriously power-hungry circuit. I think we can expect another tough challenge for the team. Were going through a difficult time at the moment, but were doing all that we can to rectify the situation. We must continue to concentrate on development as one team with McLaren and turn things around as soon as we can.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Romain Grosjean (FRA) Haas VF-17 at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Practice, Montreal, Canada, Friday 9 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Kevin Magnussen (DEN) Haas F1 at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Qualifying, Montreal, Canada, Saturday 10 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Haas Romain Grosjean Its going to be pretty exciting. I think some parts of the circuit are going to be very tight for the wider cars, but some other corners are going to be really nice to drive. Straight-line speed is going to be a bit down. I think its going to be a really cool track to drive with these cars  braking late and carrying a lot of speed in the corners, and playing around with some pretty fast corners through the walls. I believe theres always a lot of things you can bring from the past, even when the cars are different. Well look at what we did last year, what our setup was like, and what we couldve done better in the race. I think weve got some ideas and well apply that with the deltas of this year. There are always things we can learn and improve. It was a really good race (last year). Its a beautiful city and a beautiful track. The only downside we noticed was the plastic bags flying around  they actually cost us points in the race as one got caught in the radiator intake. Hopefully, thats improved. For me, that was the only downside of what was a really good weekend. I would say (the tracks most challenging part) was the back end  going around the castle, up the hills, then going back down and the two last corners, which were actually pretty tricky. Its the most challenging one. Its pretty high speed and youve got to get the right balance in those corners as well as the braking. Its pretty exciting when you get it right. Kevin Magnussen I never tried the Baku City Circuit in a simulator before actually racing there. It was a cool experience to just go on a track you dont even have 100 percent idea which way the corners are going. I really had to learn the circuit from scratch. It was a cool experience and the track was really cool. Im looking forward to going back again. Its going to be fun. The corners are going to be faster this year because of the increased downforce. Were going to be a bit slower on the straights, so I suspect Baku might be one of the tracks where were not going to be that much faster than the old cars, but its still going to be massively fun and challenging in the corners. Now I know the track, and I learned which way the corners are going, coming back this year will be easier to adjust to the track. A couple of corners might be easy flat now, maybe even turn 13 will be flat now, which it wasnt last year. That will be a cool experience. It was a pretty cool race (last year). Baku offers good opportunities to overtake. Theres a lot of action in the race  thats always good. The most challenging part was sector two. Its very low speed, very narrow. Its easy to make a mistake. I guess (the Baku City Circuit is) a mixture of Monza and Monaco  which is pretty unusual. Im looking forward to it. Guenther Steiner, team principal Like all the circuits, we have to see where our time will be. The times improve more on a slower circuit with the new car than on the fast circuits because the top speeds are not much higher than last year. So, I dont know how the surface looks this year in Baku. Last year it was pretty slippery, and I dont know if the asphalt is still slippery. Well really only know until after FP1. You can use all the (2016 Baku) data again because now, having done seven races, we can translate the data from last years car to this years car pretty easily. It all helps, and were able to come in to this race as well prepared as we can. Its a fantastic place. Everybody did a good job there last year. The organizers were good and the race track was good. They knew what to do and they were well prepared.

Next Previous Enlarge 1 / 2 Max Verstappen (NED) Red Bull Racing on the drivers parade at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Daniel Ricciardo (AUS) Red Bull Racing celebrates on the podium at Formula One World Championship, Rd7, Canadian Grand Prix, Race, Montreal, Canada, Sunday 11 June 2017.  Sutton Motorsport Images Info Close

Red Bull Max Verstappen Baku in my opinion is quite a special street circuit, its really unique in terms of having quite wide sections but also some of the tightest parts of track on the calendar. Sector 2 is tighter than parts of Monaco which has always been regarded as really narrow and challenging. When you drive up into the old town and past the castle it is fun and tricky but also amazing to watch as a spectator. That section of the track is my favourite, the straight is quick but seems to go on for a long time and gives you a chance to relax a bit. As the hotel is really nice and new as well as being situated right next to the paddock I didnt manage to get out and have a look around last year. The old town is fun to drive so I think I should try and get up there one evening this year and see what else it has in store. Daniel Ricciardo This year I want to try and see the city more and get out to explore. Our hotel is so convenient being basically on the circuit but it means you dont go out of that area too much and become a bit complacent. The view from the top of our hotel was awesome, from the gym you could see the entire city and track which is pretty unique. The track was fun so Im looking forward to having another go on it. Another street circuit is exciting for me as I really enjoy those types of tracks, it doesnt suit our car that much but there are a lot of opportunities for things to happen. I think the circuit is definitely as tight as it looks and has a lot of corners unlike any others on the calendar. There are a few interesting lines past the castle which adds to the toughness and is definitely a section of track like no other. The straight is so long that it gives you time to think, which is nice as the corners are technical and you really need to concentrate.
The Chief Minister said the move would benefit a total of 10.25 lakh farmers including 8.75 lakh farmers with land up to 5 acres.

By Anand Patel: Fulfilling one of his biggest election promise, the Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh today announced loan waiver for farmers.

While total waiver of entire crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh was announced for small and marginal farmers (up to 5 acres), a flat Rs 2 lakh relief for all other marginal farmers, irrespective of their loan amount.

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Making this announcement during his speech in the Vidhan Sabha, the Chief Minister said the move would benefit a total of 10.25 lakh farmers including 8.75 lakh farmers with land up to 5 acres.

The announcement comes after Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra governments announced farm loan waivers. However, Punjab government claims that its initiative would provide be more beneficial that those announced by Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.

The decision is based on the interim report of the expert group, headed by eminent economist Dr T Haque. The group was tasked with suggesting ways and means to help the state's distressed farming community.

The Punjab government has also decided to take over the outstanding crop loan from institutional sources of all the families of farmers who committed suicides in the state. It has also decided to raise the ex-gratia for suicide affected families to Rs five lakh from the existing Rs three lakh.

For debt relief to farmers and loans raised from non-institutional resources, the government has decided to review the Punjab settlement of Agriculture Indebtedness Act. The Act will provide the desired relief to the farmers through mutually acceptable debt reconciliation and settlement, which shall be statutorily binding on both the parties, the lender and the borrower. The government has already constituted a Cabinet Sub Committee to review this Act.

Captain Amarinder informed the House that his government had already decided to repeal Section 67 A of the Punjab Cooperative Societies Act, 1961, which provides for auction/ kurki of farmers' land.

Congress party poll campaign in Punjab had focused on slogans like - karza kurki khatm, fasal di poori rakam and Kisana naal insaaf karo, sara karza maaf karo.

Also read:

Amarinder Singh Cabinet skips farm loan waivers, pushes women's quota in Punjab

Amarinder Singh optimistic about getting PM Modi's support to clear Badal govt's Rs 1.25 lakh crore debt

WATCH | Capt Amarinder Singh to India Today: Award to Maj Gogoi a pat on the back to soldiers in Kashmir

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Brig. Gen. Blazey dies

Brig. Gen. Frank Blazey (ret.) shown in a file photo from May 2015.

Frank Earl Blazey, a decorated Army infantry officer who led troops in the Korean and Vietnam wars before retiring as a brigadier general, died on Monday at the Life Care Center at Lake Pointe Landing. He was 92.

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A 1946 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., Blazey received numerous medals for courageously leading soldiers, at times under heavy fire.

On April 25 and 26, 1951, near Tokchong, Korea, his Company E was attacked by a much larger enemy force as Blazeys company occupied a defensive position on the Elgin Line. Forced to tighten his perimeter in the face of heavy pressure, Capt. Blazey fearlessly moved through the intense enemy fire as he organized a defensive position around the command post, according to a synopsis of the Silver Star commendation. When the supply of ammunition became critically low, Captain Blazey, on three occasions, personally led a party through the heavy hostile fire to procure more.

The old soldier did not die, nor even fade away, in retirement in Hendersonville.

He served on the Board of Directors of the Department of Social Services, was an active member of the Rotary Club, was among the founders of ECO and a longtime volunteer in conservation work. He supported the YMCA and Blue Ridge Community College, where he helped found the Lifelong Learning program.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 30, at First United Methodist Church, with visitation preceding the service and starting at noon, also in the sanctuary. A reception will follow. Gen. Blazey will be buried at West Point, where he got his military training during World War II and where he later earned a masters degree in business administration.

After graduating from West Point in 1946, Blazey began a long and distinguished career as a professional soldier. His wife, Joy, had just given birth to their first child when he got called to combat duty.

The war started two days after the birth of this child, he recalled in an interview with the Hendersonville Lightning last year. And I told her, Im going to go to Korea. Theyre looking for young captains to go to Korea and I didnt get in World War II. I think I owe it to my country. They made me captain. Im going to go.

Blazey was a featured speaker when Blue Ridge Honor Flight announced that it would begin flying Korean War veterans to Washington to see the Korean memorial and other monuments.

I look back on Korea as an accomplishment, he said. We spent over two years there, one in combat, a very difficult time. Im sorry to say it but I still dont like the Chinese. They gave me a pretty tough battle but we won that one, too.

After his service in the Korean War, Blazey would go on to win the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for operations, Department of the Army, from 1964 to 1967; a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in lieu of a second Silver Star) for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving at headquarters of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, in Vietnam, in 1967; the Distinguished Flying Cross, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving with Headquarters, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, in Vietnam, in 1967; a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit) for exceptionally service at headquarters, 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, in Vietnam, from 1967 to 1968; and a second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit) for his service in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel, Department of the Army, from 1969 to 1970.

After his retirement from the military in 1974, Blazey worked for Coca-Cola and a manufacturing company before retiring in Hendersonville with his wife, to whom he was married for 65 years and who died on Feb. 28, 2013. Last year, Gen. Blazey donated $25,000 to the new Pardee UNC Health Care Cancer Center in honor of their daughter, Gay Burgess Blazey, who died of colon cancer in 1990 at age 42. Blazey and his wife also had two sons, both of whom served in the military.

Blazey was called on to give keynote remarks at a Memorial Day event in 2015.

Take the time to thank the good souls who are a blessing to you and above to all take time to honor those fellows who have given the last fall measure of devotion for the freedom that they chose, he said. The definition of patriotism is love and loyalty for ones country, especially when were involved with other countries.
The Islamic State group (ISIS) now has a pervasive presence in Indonesia, the countrys military chief warned, where so-called sleeper cells are believed to have been established all over the Southeast Asian archipelago.

Reuters reports that Gen. Gatot Nurmantyo said Monday that clandestine networks linked to the terror group have popped up in almost every province of the worlds largest Muslim-majority nation. The commander cautioned that the cells can easily join up with other radical cells.

Government forces in the southern Philippine city of Marawi, a short distance by sea from several Indonesian islands, have been locked in fierce battle with militants linked to the terror group for weeks. The Philippine army says the militants now have control of some 20% of the city, according to Reuters.

Its easy to jump from Marawi to Indonesia and we must all beware of sleeper cells being activated in Indonesia, Murmantyo told reporters at a press conference in the Indonesian capital Jakarta.

Indonesia is a secular nation, with its Muslim population traditionally practicing moderate forms of Islam. In recent years, however, the country of some 257 million people has seen a rise in radicalism along with occasional terror attacks and bombings.

The countrys shift toward intolerance was evident earlier this year during the political free-fall of Jakartas popular former governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, a Christian more commonly known as Ahok, who was recently imprisoned on a blasphemy charge.

Source : Time
San Jose, CA  Angie Hospitality, creator of Angie, a revolutionary voice-based hotel guest room technology solution, will be competing in the Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) competition, taking place during day one of HITEC Toronto on June 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Angie Hospitality is one of 13 start-up contenders and will be pitching its innovative voice command solution with a four-minute presentation detailing Angie's key features, as well as her significant impact on guest communications and back-of-house operation protocol for the hospitality industry.

The E20X competition features two eligible awards  the Judges' Award and the People's Startup Award. The Judges' Award is given to the start-up deemed most innovative and is chosen directly by the judging panel, with a trophy and grand prize of $5,000. The E20X People's Startup Award, also known as the crowd favorite, is chosen specifically by the conference attendees via the HITEC app.

"We are very pleased to have been selected to participate in HFTP's prestigious E20X competition at HITEC," said Ted Helvey, CEO of Angie Hospitality. "We designed Angie to solve multiple challenges that the hotel industry has struggled with for some time. Our solution presents an opportunity for hoteliers to advance their technological offerings to meet guest demands, while increasing operational and cost efficiencies  and we are confident that the E20X judges and attendees will be excited about what Angie's groundbreaking innovation can contribute to the industry."

Angie Hospitality officially announced its cloud-powered, interactive guest room assistant in April of this year. The enterprise-class solution is purpose-built specifically to meet the needs of the hospitality industry. Some of Angie's key solutions include acting as a secure in-room Wi-Fi access point, serving as a 24-hour guest room assistant, offering convenient room control over things like lights and temperature, replacing the telephone, supplying a high-fidelity Bluetooth speaker and providing guest and group promotions through her interactive touch-screen.

"The hospitality industry has a growing need for seamless and affordable integration between technology and guest service," adds Helvey. "With our team's decades of industry experience, we've seen this growing need firsthand, and spent a great deal of time talking with and learning from both guests and hoteliers about their wants and needs. Based on the information we received from these conversations, we ultimately created Angie as a unified solution to simplifying operational processes, while advancing guest experiences and convenience through technology."

Angie is currently being implemented at multiple hotel properties in the U.S. and will be available for general distribution in North America and Europe in Q3 2017. For more information on Angie's full range of features or to schedule a time to visit the Angie Hospitality team during HITEC in the E20X Pavilion, please contact Dina Magdovitz at [email protected]. You may also visit www.angie.ai for more information.

About Nomadix

With more than 25 years of experience, Nomadix enables over 5 million daily internet connections in over 150 countries. With A global reputation for unparalleled reliability and ease of management, its patented gateways are the industry standard in hospitality, used by tens of thousands of properties and supporting millions of rooms worldwide. The company provides hotel and property owners, brands, property management groups and managed service providers (MSPs) with a suite of solutions that will enhance the guest and tenant experience, today and into the future. From in-room entertainment with TV casting, to secure Wi-Fi with an expanded Nomadix Networks portfolio, to Angie in-room voice assistants, to a cloud telephony service  travelers can feel at home wherever they go. For more information, visit nomadix.com.

Andrea Mane

President, Plan A PR & Marketing

407-905-0608
3 Often Overlooked Considerations for Selecting an LMS

The mission behind any successful learning management system (LMS) deployment is to help facilitate, manage and track the growth of knowledge within an organization, and do it more efficiently and effectively. Knowledge can come in a variety of forms, but generally the most important to food service operators is the knowledge of 'what, why and how.' This type of knowledge can often be taught at a lower cost and with better results through a blended learning approach that leverages the power of e-learning, and many restaurant operators have reaped the benefits of successful deployments.

There are many LMS options available on the market, but not all are created equal in terms of their ability to serve the restaurant industry. In food service, there are specific challenges as it pertains to communicating the what, why and how that make us fundamentally different from other industries. First, we have a large and diverse hourly workforce that is heavily composed of attention-deficient millennials. Second, our industry has one of the highest employee turnover rates of any vertical market, currently well in excess of 120% nationwide according to TDn2K. Third, because of the time and money constraints on restaurant operators, selection of the right LMS often boils down to how well it accomplishes the goal of communicating the what, why and how without imposing too high of a burden on limited administrative and financial resources.

With these industry differences in mind, there are three often overlooked factors that really should be considered when selecting an LMS for your restaurants: 1) Ease of Use, 2) Non-learning Feature Creep, and 3) Restaurant-specific Features. In this first part of our three-part series, I examine Ease of Use from the perspective of the learner, the general manager, and the administrator.

The Learner

This seems like a no-brainer, but you are paying hourly employees for every second they spend on the system. Because even a few extra minutes per learner can add up to thousands of dollars per year across many locations, ease of use is perhaps one of the most important factors when considering any LMS. For example, confusing navigation menus, distracting clutter and the time it takes to access information (such as the number of clicks required to get what they need) can have surprisingly dramatic effects on the learners experience and the overall cost of using the system.

Some LMSs require as many as seven clicks for the learner to access the content they need. Thats an incredible waste of time and money. Look for an LMS that makes it super clear to the learner what they need to do as soon as they log in. That means no more than one or two clicks required to get started with their learning.

One of the biggest value propositions of e-learning is reducing the time required to get employees to the level of competency required to do their jobs. For example, as shown in the graphic below, some restaurants have cut training time by 50% or more with their e-learning programs.

Make sure the LMS you choose does not diminish this value by encouraging employees to search around for their training, waste time playing games or hang out in social sites.

A system that reduces complexity across the board will help to ensure learners get the information they need with less effort, and thus have more time to spend engaging in the actual learning process. Restaurants benefit because they spend less time and money having new hires sitting on a tablet performing non-learning activities, and instead have new hires focus their time on getting trained.

The General Manager

Managing a restaurant is a demanding job that requires a balance of many competencies, including restaurant operations knowledge, guest hospitality, financial acumen, and human resource management. One of the most time-consuming aspects can be hiring and onboarding new employees, and then ensuring they get the training and development they need to succeed. If your LMS makes you go through a cumbersome process to assign training to employees, it will just complicate an already difficult job.

When selecting an LMS, its critical that it be easy for busy store managers to use. Look for features like one-click learning program assignments, automated assignments based on skill position, automated exam administration and grading, and integration with HRIS systems to automate employee additions, changes and deletions.

In addition, it should be easy for managers to see the status of training in their store at a glance. Features like an interactive dashboard and flexible reporting can make managing training through an LMS a seamless and helpful experience for managers.

The Admin

LMS administrators know that despite their many advantages, working with some learning management systems can be a big pain in the you-know-what. Weve heard countless stories about the many hoops admins have to jump through just to upload new content, even waiting for weeks at a time to complete the process. And forget about editing an exam question or moving an employee to a different location  some things are better left undone for all the gyrations you need to go through.

In todays age of intuitive, user-friendly interfaces, theres no reason the poor system admin  the workhorse of the training department  needs to be left behind. You dont have to settle for cumbersome, old-school technology just because its the back end that no one but you will ever see. Modern LMSs should be as easy for the admin to use as they are for the learner.

Some of todays LMSs have been designed specifically to reduce administrative burden. Conditional Learning Programs is one example of a feature that streamlines work for LMS admins. This feature lets admins customize the learning experience for different regions, franchisees, specific brands or other criteria that dictate different content for a subset of learners. For example, within a single Harassment Prevention learning program, you can automatically deliver different content to learners in different states. California requires a specific set of sexual harassment training content that other states do not require, so the learning program can be set to recognize a learner from California and deliver the right version. Heres a video that shows how this works.

Make Adoption Easy

The bottom line is that ease-of-use should not stop at the learners experience. Make sure the LMS you choose is easy to use for managers and administrators as well. This will help to ensure adoption by all users and save labor dollars across the board.

Part 2 of this series will focus on Non-learning Feature Creep  an issue that can cause a lot of distraction and wasted time if youre not careful.
The Grayson Hotel in New York City Opens As Part the Unbound Collection: The 296-room hotel has views of The Empire https://t.co/GBjV1ooi6c
General (retd) VK Singh today urged Brazil, China and Russia "to not differentiate" between "good and bad terrorists" at the first summit of BRICS foreign ministers in Beijing.

By Ananth Krishnan: Minister of State for External Affairs Gen (retd)VK Singh today delivered a strong message on combatting terrorism at the first summit of BRICS foreign ministers in Beijing, urging countries "to not differentiate" between "good and bad terrorists".

India hopes the bloc of emerging countries will take a strong and unified stand on terrorism. Gen Singh's message in Beijing took on added salience, considering that the Chinese government has been a prominent obstacle in other fora, such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), to India's attempts to sanction terrorists based in Pakistan.

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While not mentioning Pakistan, Gen Singh, who was attending the meet as External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was unable to travel for health reasons, struck an optimistic note in a press conference following his summit with the foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa. He said "all BRICS countries agreed that terrorism is the common enemy of humankind and are fully concerned about the threat of terrorism in its various forms and manifestations".

"On behalf of India, I pointed out that terrorism remains one of the most potent global menaces. We did bring out that it threatens global peace and terrorists cannot be differentiated by calling them good or bad," he said.

"They are terrorists and they are criminals and we need to have a concerted action both in the region and internationally to curb their activities," he said.

"We have a consensus among the BRICS countries that all (forms of) terrorism must be condemned and various measures must be taken to cooperate so that terrorism does not spread and harm any one of our countries", he added.

Gen Singh also called for "expediting the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations which has been pending for some time" and said that India "has the support of all the BRICS countries" on this issue.

'CHINA ALSO A VICTIM OF TERROR'

Yet how much India's push will find support in China remains unclear. Next month, the UNSC will revisit an application to sanction Pakistani terrorist Masood Azhar that Beijing, at Pakistan's behest, placed a "technical hold" on.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday defended China's stance on terror when asked about differences with India, saying that "China opposes terror in all forms".

"China is also (a) victim of terror and China is taking part in global initiatives against terror," he said. "With colleagues today including Indian colleagues China shares the same position."

Gen Singh noted that BRICS launched a joint working group on counter-terrorism which held a meeting last month. He also said National Security Adviser Ajit Doval will likely travel to Beijing next month for a BRICS NSAs meet that will also discuss terror and security cooperation.

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"The BRICS agenda has witnessed steady expansion," Gen Singh said. "The joint working group on counter terror concluded its meeting in May. Our NSAs are scheduled to meet next month. In their meeting last year, they reached significant understanding to enhance BRICS cooperation in security and counter-terrorism".

"India attaches utmost importance to engagement with BRICS countries," he added. "The Prime Minister has repeatedly underscored the role of BRICS in the international arena and stressed the importance of fostering intra-BRICS cooperation".

INDIA WANTS BRICS GROUP TO PUT OUT STRONG STATEMENT ON TERROR

India will want the BRICS grouping to put out a strong statement on terrorism as it holds a summit in Xiamen, southern China, in September which PM Narendra Modi will attend.

On Sunday, both countries looked to bring recently strained relations back on track as Gen Singh held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. He said "India looks forward to strengthening and deepening its strategic partnership and mutual dialogue with China."

Wang was quoted as saying by the official Xinhua news agency that "China and India are both major countries with great influence, and that they should boost cooperation in the BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and all other multilateral frameworks to make contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world at large."

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This is the first major visit from India after Delhi became the only major country to boycott President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road summit on May 14.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had been scheduled to attend Monday's first ever standalone BRICS foreign ministers' meeting. Previous interactions among the foreign ministers of the grouping had only been held on the sidelines of other summit - but as Gen Singh told Wang, "She wanted to come but then health and other restrictions on her did not permit her. But she was looking forward to meeting you."

The ministers on Monday called on Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi's government is going all out to ensure the BRICS summit in September, which Xi will host in Xiamen in Fujian province where he was earlier a provincial leader, will be seen as a success, with the Communist Party of China also hosting a key once-in-five-year leadership congress, likely to be held in Beijing the following month.

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ALSO READ | VK Singh in Beijing: India, China look to bring ties back on track

ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: China's richest man praises absent India at One Belt, One Road meet

ALSO WATCH | PM Modi meets China's Jingping on sidelines of SCO summit is Astana

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5 Philanthropy Trends Worth Your Energy

Posted by Liz Bardetti on Monday, 06-19-2017 10:08 am

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Any change in presidential administration is bound to cause changes in national philanthropy, but there hasnt been an effect like this in recent memory. With the election of President Donald Trump and associated cabinet picks, philanthropy has seen explosive and immediate changes. While we frequently compile yearly trends, it must be said that this year is different from any in recent memory. With that in mind, there are a few key trends to pay attention to in 2017 to get the most out Corporate Social Responsibility. #1- Constitutional Rights Groups are TrendingUp On both sides of the political spectrum, individuals are taking a stand for their rights under the constitution. Their concerns include free speech, free press, the separation of church and state, equality, privacy rights, the right to assemble and protest and more. For example, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) received$7.2 million in the first five daysafter the election. In comparison, after the 2012 presiden...

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Update: 17:27pm: Ya-Haddy Sisi Saye, also known as Khadija Saye, 24, Abufars Ibrahim, 39, and Anthony Disson, 65, all lived in the 24-storey block, which was destroyed by a huge blaze last Wednesday in west London.

Five people have been formally identified, including 23-year-old Mohammad Alhajali and a woman whose family do not want her name to be released.

The rest are missing presumed dead, Metropolitan Police Commander Stuart Cundy said on Monday.

In a statement, the family of Mr Disson said: "Our family are devastated at receiving the news that Tony sadly did not survive the fire at Grenfell Tower.

"Tony leaves behind a large family, his wife, sons and grandchildren, including one grandchild he will never get to meet.

"We miss him terribly, and are pulling together as a family and trying to stay strong under these tragic circumstances. We ask at this time that our family are left to grieve in private."

Earlier: Residents living near Grenfell Tower say they have been told they face three weeks without mains water in the height of summer if they return to their homes.

Locals said they had been told they can go back to neighbouring blocks "at their own risk".

But one mother with several children said she had been told by a Kensington and Chelsea council official she would have to take them to the nearby Westway sports centre to wash them until the mains were turned back on.

The sports centre is being used as the main refuge place for those made homeless by the deadly blaze which killed at least 79 people on Wednesday.

The woman said an expected call on Monday afternoon from an official about temporary accommodation had not come.

Since their block was evacuated she had slept in several places, including her car.

She decided on Sunday night to return to their flat.

She said: "We have no water. Do they expect us to live like this for three weeks?

"An idiot from the council said if we want to wash we should go to the sports centre. For three weeks I have to come here with the children and wash ourselves?"

Her daughter added: "We don't live in a Third World country, we live in a rich country. They can't give us a hotel room so we can wash properly."

The mother also claimed that the morning after the blaze, fire alarms in her block which had been broken for five years, had been fixed.

Update 15:20pm: Three victims of the Grenfell Tower disaster have been named by the Metropolitan Police as Ya-Haddy Sisi Saye, 24, also known as Khadija Saye, Anthony Disson, 65, and 39-year-old Abufars Ibrahim.

Former Crimewatch presenter Nick Ross has said he is "bloody furious" that ministers have ignored calls for sprinklers to be installed in all social housing.

Mr Ross has been campaigning on the issue for 15 years, while he now also chairs heritage body the Kensington Society.

He told BBC Radio 4's World at One that a series of ministers - including now-London Mayor Sadiq Khan back in 2009 - had turned down his efforts to make changes.

Some 300 people were killed in house fires last year, Mr Ross said, adding that most of them lived in social housing that was not high rise.

"We need to think of all social housing, just as we used to think of all hotels, and we've got to put in proper precautions," he said.

Photo issued by Metropolitan Police of Anthony Disson who has been named as one of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire in west London.

Update 13:44pm The UK Fire Brigade Union has called for victims to be central to the public inquiry and to have legal representation paid for by the Government.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the FBU has said that firefighters and victims of the fire want answers.

The inquiry will not only look at what caused the fire but who was responsible for the building and for any alterations.

Police say 79 people are either dead or missing presumed dead after #GrenfellTower fire https://t.co/58EfCe2fXa pic.twitter.com/lhtJlzR1bg  BBC Three (@bbcthree) June 19, 2017

Update 13:30pm: There were emotional scenes this morning as firefighters halted work to join residents and the rest of the UK for a minute's silence for those who lost their lives.

Death toll has risen to 79.

250 investigatiors are now working on the case and primary aim is to identify victims.

General secretary of FBU Matt Wrack said the inquiry will not only look at what caused the fire but who was responsible for the building and for any alterations.

Downing St have confirmed that several London boroughs had come together to co-ordinate assistance to those affected by the disaster.

The move came after Theresa May said that initial support on the ground was "not good enough".

Spokesperson for Downing St said in respsonse to calls for May to resign that she is leading the country through this difficult time.

May has promised to rehouse those affected within three weeks

British councils have been asked to check by the end of today whether tower blocks have been cladded using similar material.

Firefighters apologising for those they were unable to save is heart breaking. Can't imagine whats going through their minds #GrenfellTower  Emma Jordan-Wales (@emmajordanwales) June 19, 2017

Update 12:25: There were emotional scenes at the site in north Kensington at 11am as firefighters halted work to join residents for a minute's silence held to remember those who lost their lives and all others affected by the blaze.

The silence was also observed at Government buildings across the country.

Metropolitan Police Commander, Stuart Cundy said that a team of some 250 investigators were now working on the case, with a primary aim being to identify victims and inform their loved ones as soon as possible.

#GrenfellTower urgently needs #interpreters in Arabic, Bengali and Eritrean. Please e-mail chairman@apciinterpreters.org.uk for more info.  Katya Ford (@KatyaFord) June 19, 2017

Update 11:22: The death toll from the Grenfell Tower fire has risen to 79, police said.

Metropolitan Police Commander Stuart Cundy said five people had been formally identified and the rest were "sadly" missing presumed dead.

Mr Cundy said the death toll may still change, but not as significantly as it has in recent days.

He fought back tears as he told reporters about the scene inside the 24-storey tower in north Kensington.

Footage from inside the gutted building has been released, showing the extent of the damage caused by the blaze.

He said it had been "incredibly emotional working in there", adding: "On Saturday I went in myself and went to the top floor.

"And it is incredibly hard to describe the devastation in some parts of that building."

Five people who had been reported missing after the disaster have been found safe and well, he added.

Mr Cundy said: "Sadly, as of this morning, I am afraid to say there are now 79 people who we believe are now dead or missing and we have to presume they are dead."

He said police had received some 70 pictures and videos of the fire from the public and urged them to send more as officers investigate the blaze.

He would not be drawn on the specifics of the criminal investigation of the fire, including whether anyone had been arrested or raids carried out.

As anger continued in the wake of the disaster, described by London Mayor Sadiq Khan as a "preventable accident", the Government announced on Sunday that those left homeless will be given at least 5,500 from an emergency fund.

Residents will be given 500 in cash followed by a bank payment for the rest from Monday, with the money coming from the 5 million fund announced by Prime Minister Theresa May on Friday.

Speaking outside Scotland Yard, Mr Cundy added: "I have investigated major crime for most of my service and I have seen some terrible things. But I don't think anything prepared me for what I was going to see when I was in there.

"It's hard to describe my feelings, because I cannot imagine, and I would not want to put myself in the position of those families who have lost their loved ones.

"But being with colleagues from the London Fire Brigade when I was in there, colleagues from the London Ambulance Service and other police officers, I think it's fair to say it is incredibly emotional working in there.

"But we will do it with our utmost professionalism and we will do everything we can as quickly as we can to locate everybody who is in there."

Update 10.49am: The death toll from the Grenfell Tower fire has risen to 79, police said.

Metropolitan Police Commander Stuart Cundy said five people had been formally identified and the rest were "sadly" missing presumed dead.

He told reporters the "awful reality" was that it might not be possible to identify all the victims.

Some families have lost more than one member, he added.

The announcement came ahead of a minute's silence to be held at 11am across all Government buildings to remember the people who lost their lives and all those affected by the fire in north Kensington last week.

Earlier: Eerie footage from inside the burnt-out remains of Grenfell Tower has offered a harrowing first glimpse of the extent of the disaster.

Three short video clips and a handful of still images, released by the Metropolitan Police on Sunday evening, show remnants of appliances coated in ash as sunlight pours in through the glass-less windows.

Panoramic footage shows a flat littered with piles of debris, coated in black and grey ash - it is one of the few rooms safe enough for specialist crews to access following the blaze, which took hold in the early hours of Wednesday and has claimed at least 58 lives. The latest death toll will be updated on Monday.

Eerie footage from inside remains of Grenfell Tower offers harrowing first glimpse of the extent of the disaster https://t.co/fOaMuIMlFK pic.twitter.com/EZDhOCbUM8  RTE News (@rtenews) June 18, 2017

Burnt objects including baths, ovens, washing machines, and what looks to be an exercise bike, can be made out amongst the fragments.

A sink unit rests on the ground, with its tap mostly intact. Pipes are exposed at crooked angles, and parts of the walls are completely blackened.

In one clip, as well as household appliances, what looks to be the remains of a bed can be seen, with its springs completely exposed.

The fire appears to have burnt through the internal walls of the flat pictured, leaving it as one large room with remains of kitchen appliances at its centre, and remnants of the bathroom in a corner.

Tiles and other fragments have entirely filled the sink and toilet bowl.

PA
By Press Trust of India: Hyderabad, Jun 19 (PTI) Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) today said the ongoing strike by a few sections of workers unions has not impacted coal production.

The national trade unions AITUC, INTUC, CITU, HMS and BMS are among the unions to have decided to go on indefinite strike from June 15 demanding implementation of the revival of the Dependent Employment Scheme (DES) as promised by the TRS Government during elections.

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"There was 80 per cent attendance of employees when compared to ordinary days. The coal production has gone up by 13 per cent during the past four days even as coal dispatches have been up by 8 per cent.

"Workers are satisfied with the explanation given by the management on their demand," SCCL said in a statement.

It further said that the coal production was over 1.71 lakh tonnes during the past four days against 1.52 tonnes a day before the beginning of the strike.

Meanwhile, CITU in statement demanded that the management should immediately call agitating workers for a dialogue.

The trade union today held a "round table" on the issue.

A senior official of the miner, had earlier said the main recognised union Telangana Boggu Gani Karmika Sangam (TBGKS) which represents nearly 70 per cent of the 56,000 permanent workforce of the PSU is not participating in the strike and hence there may not be much impact on production. PTI GDK RMT

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In Person Longtime Activist Returns to Her Studies, Aiming to Change the System for Women

Ma May Sabe Phyu, a director of the Gender Equality Network (GEN), and co-founder of the Kachin Peace Network and the Kachin Women Peace Network. / Thet Htun Naing / The Irrawaddy

YANGON  Prominent Myanmar womens rights and peace activist Ma May Sabe Phyu received a fellowship to study for a one-year Master in Public Administration (MPA) program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in the US this year.

Alumni of the program include the first female president of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who is also a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and the former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

Ma May Sabe Phyu, a director of the Gender Equality Network (GEN), and co-founder of the Kachin Peace Network and the Kachin Women Peace Network, won the US State Departments International Women of Courage Award for her tireless efforts toward gender equality and peacebuilding in Myanmar.

The ethnic Kachin activist said she is interested in taking the programs courses on constitutions, political economy, women leadership, political systems, taxation and national revenue management.

Before she left Yangon for her studies on June 15, she sat down with The Irrawaddy to talk about why she chose the MPA and what knowledge she expects to implement in Myanmar on her return.

Why did you decide to study the MPA?

I have advocated for gender equality and women participation for five years, and throughout this time I have put in a lot of effort, kept talking about why we need gender equality, why women participation is important.

More people have started to acknowledge there is no gender equality in Myanmar and have begun accepting womens participation. But in reality, we have not yet got the results or outcome we want, so we are surely missing something.

That is, we need to know how to integrate gender equality and womens rights into the administrative system. For that, we need to know how the overall public administrative system is running, which is why I am going to learn where and how we need to change and improve the administration so women can participate more, and we can ensure womens rights and gender equality.

What do you expect to contribute after returning from the MPA?

I will come back to the GEN. As we want gender integration from the national level to all levels, we are doing national-level advocacy a lot, but no satisfying change has been seen. I expect to push more than we are now for the implementation of that. I will be able participate more practically in peace and politics because there is always the question of how much a woman knows. If I come back from Harvard, there wouldnt be any question on how much I know.

Women activists have been pushing for womens participation in leadership. We now have a woman leading the country, despite the low number of women in the administration. What kind of difference have you seen so far?

We cant say all the faults and shortages are because of her leadership, because absolute power is not in her handseverybody knows. We cant say the country is led completely under a woman. The military still largely holds power and there is a state in which they might order a coup at anytime. To see real change, the sovereignty of the country needs to be with the civilian government, elected by the people. If not, it will be difficult to achieve real change.

Your family and friends believe you are trying to achieve the impossible in your lifetimegender equality. Do you think we will achieve gender equality in Myanmar?

Realistically, we can get at least 30 percent of women participation in every sector. We are pushing to get the policies to ensure that. At least, even if we dont get equality, I think I can do that in my lifetime.

In what way do you want to encourage other women?

I can go and study, as my children are becoming adults and my husband supports me, but there might be many women who cant go study because their family doesnt support them or for other reasons.

So I discussed with a senior who finished the MPA program to create a platform on Facebook on which I could stream live videos of some of the lectures, upload parts of the lectures and discussions, and also reflect on the lectures and discussions for people who are interested, like an online class. I would like to share what I learn there through that [Facebook] group but I need to negotiate with the professors.
Burma End Impunity for Rapists in Conflict, say Womens Rights Advocates

(L to R) Nang Khin Htar Yee, a Lower House lawmaker from Shan state, Nay Say Hwa, a former Lower House lawmaker from Karen State, and Nang Pu, a director of Kachin-based Htoi Gender and Development Foundation. / Myo Min Soe / The Irrawaddy

YANGON  Advocates for womens rights stressed the challenges of obtaining justice for the survivors of violence, and called for an end to impunity for rapists in conflict, as they marked the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.

Nang Pu, founder of the Kachin State Womens Network and director of the Kachin-based Htoi Gender and Development Foundation, said justice remains out of reach for women survivors of violence in conflict areas, during a panel discussion organized by the Alliance for Gender Inclusion in the Peace Process (AGIPP) in Yangon on Monday.

Not taking action against the perpetrators is the same allowing them to commit rape. And also there is no security for all women [in the state], she told the attendees.

She said impunity still reigns when rapes are committed by Myanmar Army soldiers. The survivors and their families receive threats from the perpetrators not to report the cases, she added.

Rape is continually used as a weapon in conflict, said Nang Pu. Rape threatens all women, she said, leading to their insecurity, limiting their freedom of movement, and hindering their development, compared to others.

Traditional ways of resolving rape cases stand in the way of justice, she added, explaining that most rape survivors and their families refer to guidance from a religious leader or teacher. This may lead, she said, to compensation of just 200,000 kyats and some chickens.

Or these individuals will try to comfort the survivor instead of reporting the case, she added, as the expenses of a legal process and the idea of dealing with male officers deter them.

Lower House lawmaker Nang Khin Htar Yee of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy, who is also a member of the Shan State Women Affairs Committee, echoed her words.

She said soldiers are responsible for most rapes in Shan State, but result in no arrests, and no transparency of whether action is taken against the perpetrator.

Nay Say Hwa, a former lawmaker of Karen States Hpa-an constituency, said rape is more common in conflict zones, which highlighted the urgent need for a separate law to prevent sexual violence against women in such areas.

Nay Say Hwa, who is also the chair of Phalon-Sawaw Democratic Party (Myanmar)s Women Affairs Committee, said more women participation at the countrys major decision-making level is neededespecially in peace and security sectorsto encourage more prevention and protection plans, as well as policies, for women in conflict areas.

Nang Pu listed recommendations: a 30 percent minimum of women participation at all levels of the peace process; the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions 1325 and 1820which relate to women, peace and security issuesby the government and non-governmental organizations; and security for the media to report on sexual violence in conflict.
Burma Kyaukphyu Farmers Propose Compensation Rates for Land Lost to SEZ

A reservoir is shown under construction in February 2015 near Thaing Chaung village, to provide water for the special economic zone.

YANGON  Farmers from four village tracts in southern Rakhine States Kyaukphyu Township have demanded that the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) committee compensate seized paddy field at a rate of up to 90 million kyats per acre, according to a township administration official.

The request came after a meeting between Kyaukphyu SEZ committee chairman Dr. Soe Win and 63 farmers from Thaing Chaung, Kat Tha Pyay, Chaung Wa and Khandi villages on Monday. Dr. Soe Win reached Kyaukphyu on Sunday, held a meeting with township authorities and observed the situation on the ground in the villages of concern.

Newly appointed township administration officer U Shwe Hla Aung said farmers also asked for compensation of pastureland at 70 million kyats per acre and for 50 million kyats per acre of farmland which would be lost in the scheme. The committee did not comment on the amounts requested.

According to U Shwe Hla Aung, state-owned Chinese conglomerate CITIC had selected 250 acres of land located in the middle of the four villages to be part of the SEZ. In total, CITIC had planned to develop the industrial zone on nearly 4,300 acres of land belonging to 35 villages.

Social Development Association for Regional Farmers member U Khin Nyunt told The Irrawaddy over the phone on Monday that his organization had provided a document to SEZ committee chair Dr. Soe Win asking that job opportunities be created for locals affected by the project, that a resettlement plan be put forward for the entire community in case of evacuation, and that vocational training be provided for residents. He also recommended that an SEZ bylaw be enacted to protect villagers legal rights.

The Kyaukphyu farmers demands have become a topic of debate in the Rakhine community: some describe their compensation scheme as too costly, while others call the land rates reasonable, pointing to higher market prices in the state capital of Sittwe.

The farmers can grow paddy for a lifetime, but the compensatory money can be lost any time, if they dont know how to do business, said U Khin Nyunt. Farming is their professional career and paddy fields are irreplaceable things.

U Khin Nyunt told The Irrawaddy that he felt the meeting was too short and lamented that the village representatives were allowed to only briefly present their demands to Dr. Soe Win. He added that the Kyaukphyu SEZ committee had visited the villages last month and promised that the government was working on drafting a strategic plan for villagers.

We want protection within legal frameworks, not a verbal promise from the committee, he said.

The Rakhine State Minister of Planning and Finance U Kyaw Aye Thein, who joined the trip with the Kyaukphyu SEZ committee, confirmed that villagers demanded compensation for farmland, new land for their village, job opportunities, and training for locals.

We are still drafting a resettlement plan for the villages with the recommendations of experts, and will compensate the farmers in line with that which would meet international standards, he said.

The authorities did not invite any local civil society organizations (CSOs), regional lawmakers or reporters to the meeting on Monday. The Arakan National Partys regional MP U Phoe San criticized the conduct of government as lacking transparency.

The authorities should invite lawmakers and local organizations to the meeting and release the discussions to the public. We dont want a result in which companies pay a small amount of money to the locals and leave the village with the damages, said U Phoe San.

Planning and finance minister U Kyaw Aye Thein defended the discussion as one between the authorities and farmers, and allowed for the farmers to speak frankly.

We will invite CSOs later. This meeting only required people who are linked to this issue. It has nothing to do with CSOs. We gave the actual farmers a chance to express their opinions, U Kyaw Aye Thein said.

In late April, CITIC Chairman Chang Zhenming visited Myanmar and conducted a meeting with State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in Naypyidaw. Chinese official Wan Yajun also held a retreat with local businessmen from Kyaukphyu and expressed an eagerness to begin the SEZ without delay.
Burma Ministry to Legalize Myanmar Domestic Workers in Singapore

An estimated 40,000 Myanmar nationals are currently engaged in domestic work in Singapore.

YANGON  The Myanmar government will register and legalize Myanmar national domestic workers in Singapore, said deputy director general Daw Khin Nwe Oo of the Ministry of Labor, Immigration and Population.

The ministry has so far only approved sending some 130 domestic workers to Singapore through a bilateral agreement between the two governments but it is estimated that as many as 40,000 Myanmar nationals are currently engaged in domestic work in Singapore, said the deputy director general during an event to celebrate World Domestic Workers Day in Yangon on June 16.

We will tally the number of workers in the first phase. We already have action plans that we will carry out depending on the number. We want to protect them, she said.

I want domestic workers to get registered, and well issue official documents for them, she added.

At the event, civil society organizations (CSOs) engaged in defending and promoting the rights of migrant workers along with a network of labor organizations demanded that the Myanmar government sign International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 189, which concerns decent work for domestic workers. But, the deputy director general replied that her ministry has no plan to sign the convention at this time.

The event also hosted a debate regarding the ban on migrant domestic workers. Daw Thet Thet Aung, leader of a CSO called the Future Light Center, said although the Myanmar government has prohibited sending domestic helpers to Singapore since 2014, 30 to 40 workers migrate every day in this capacity, and they dare not ask the Myanmar Embassy for assistance if difficulties arise as they are not there legally.

In our country, job opportunities are fewer and the pay is less than in other countries. So, people have to go to other countries for their livelihood. Officially sending domestic workers under clear rules and regulations, and with a complaint mechanism, will help protect them, she said.

Participants recalled a recent suicide in which a Myanmar domestic worker jumped from a high-rise in Singapore, allegedly as a consequence of ill treatment by her employer and a lack of options due to Myanmars ban.

Participants also demanded ensuring the same rights and protections enshrined in labor laws for internal and migrant domestic workers in response to recent media reports about the abuse of domestic helpers within the country.

International Domestic Workers Day was celebrated last week for the first time in Burma with the assistance of the ILO and the Livelihoods and Food Security Trust Fund (LIFT).

On June 16, 2011, the ILO adopted a landmark treaty, the Convention on Decent Work for Domestic Workers, which set out the rights of domestic workers. The convention requires countries to guarantee domestic workers the same rights as other workers regarding daily and weekly rest periods, working hours, overtime compensation and paid annual leave; as well as adequate protection against violence.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.
Burma Obo Prison Inmates Matriculate with Honors

Students and parents scan the matriculation exam results. / Zaw Zaw / The Irrawaddy

MANDALAY  Seven inmates from Mandalays Obo Prison passed matriculation exams in the 2016-17 academic year, five of them with honors.

A 19-year-old woman who was sentenced to 10 years on drug charges matriculated with distinctions in geography, history and economics. Four boys who passed the exam received one distinction each.

The results of the matriculation exam were announced on Saturday.

She was from Shwe Gu Township [in Kachin State]. She has so far served about two years of her prison term, said U Cho Win Tun, prison superintendent of Obo Prison.

The girl was reportedly arrested in 2015 and jailed under the Narcotics Law after 15 methamphetamine tablets were found in the shop she was working in.

If she is qualified for professional study and willing, the ministry will decide whether she can continue in university. We will pursue every possible measure to allow her to continue her studies, the prison superintendent said.

A total of 11 inmates from Obo Prison sat for the matriculation exam.

If they want to continue to university, we will cooperate with the National Higher Education Department. They could possibly participate in distance education, as they still have to serve their prison terms, said the superintendent.

We are very proud of these students for studying hard and not giving up on their education.

This was the first academic year in which Obo Prison inmates could sit the exam from inside. In past years, they had to travel to Insein Prison for the exam.

According to figures from the Ministry of Education, 41 inmates from Obo, Insein, Tharyarwaddy and Hpa-an prisons took the matriculation exam, and 16 of them passed.

According to prison officials, in Obo Prison alone, there were 38 inmates studying from grade 6 through matriculation this year. The classes were mainly taught by teachers who were also imprisoned. Teachers from local high schools helped prepare them for the matriculation exams under a program run by the education ministry.

The successful inmates will have to wait until all marks are totaled to see which universities they may be eligible to attend.

Professional universitiessuch as medicine, engineering, economics and information technologyaccept students with the highest marks and do not allow distance learning.
Burma Wa-Led Alliance: We Will Only Meet Govt Peace Team as a Bloc

Representatives from ethnic armed groups based in northeast Myanmar in Naypyitaw ahead of the Union Peace Conference. / U Zaw Htay / Facebook

YANGON  An alliance of seven ethnic armed groups based in northeast Myanmar led by the United Wa State Army (UWSA) said it would only meet with government peace negotiators as a single entity, not as separate groups.

The governments peace commission asked the alliance to attend meetings through Chinese officials last week, according to Tar Jode Jar, vice chairman of alliance member the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA), though government peace negotiators separately told The Irrawaddy it was unlikely they would meet the groups as a bloc.

If we meet [with the government], we will only meet as an alliance, Tar Jode Jar told The Irrawaddy on Monday, referring to the new alliance of seven groups, which also includes the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the Arakan Army (AA).

If agreed, the meeting is likely to take place later this week somewhere along the border of Myanmar and China, according to Tar Jode Jar.

U Aung Soe, a member of the governments Peace Commission and a lower house lawmaker said, however, the government will meet three northern groups together [the TNLA, the AA, and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA)] and the rest separately.

Discussions could include the Panghsang Principles, an agreement signed by the seven groups at a summit in Wa self-administered territory in April, which denounce the governments nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA).

Although the NCAsigned by eight armed groups in October 2015is the governments chosen peace process, many powerful ethnic armed groups have shunned signing the accord and have put forward alternative approaches to national reconciliation.

Peace process observers have pointed out the need to review the NCA while others criticize the lack of informal talks prior to formal negotiations.

Alongside the second session of the 21st Century Panglong peace conference last month, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met separately with the seven members of the alliancethe UWSA, the KIA, the TNLA, the AA, Monglas National Democratic Alliance Army, the Shan State Progress Party/Shan State Army North and Kokangs MNDAA.

The seven groups attended the opening session of the conference at the last minute with the intervention of Chinas negotiators.
Commentary Age Matters in Politics

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, then and now (top and bottom left), contrasted with Snr-Gen Than Shwe, in his younger years, and as a senior general (top and bottom right). / Supplied / The Irrawaddy

When Daw Aung San Suu Kyi made her first speech to a large crowd at the foot of Shwedagon Pagoda on August 26, 1988, she was 43 years old. It marked the official day she entered what would become a long journey into Myanmar politics.

In her 29-year political career, she has founded Myanmars main and most popular political partythe National League for Democracy (NLD)become one of the worlds most well known political prisoners, and served as an international pro-democracy icon.

Today, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is the countrys de-facto leader, and has turned 72 years old. Universally, age matters in politics, but how it will play out specifically in Myanmar remains to be seen.

The ruling generals over the past decades have referred to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi derogatorily amongst themselves as kaung ma lay, which can interpreted as calling her a little girl. They had never before had their monopoly on power confronted or challenged by a woman, or by someone so much younger than them.

When former dictator Snr-Gen Than Shwe assumed power from his predecessor Snr-Gen Saw Maung in 1992, he was just 57. Why then did Than Shwe decide to release his iron grip on Myanmar in 2011 and hand over power to his handpicked general, U Thein Sein? Many people speculate that his age played a rolehe was 76 thenand that he had the longevity of the regime in mind.

Age might have mattered then and now. In 2012, when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi competed in the by-elections and earned a seat in Parliament, she too was 67. Perhaps Than Shwe and his deputy generals assumed that the little girl they had long mocked had developed greater political maturity over the past three decades, after three stints and fifteen years of experience of house arrest.

When Daw Aung San Suu Kyi became the State Counselor right after her NLD government took office at the end of March 2016, she was 71.

With that in mind, she must feel that there is not an extraordinary amount of time left for her to transform her country and achieve her goals.

This issue of time must be one of the key factors in Daw Aung San Suu Kyis prioritizing of those matters which she feels are most important for the country to change politically: reconciling with the military and restoring peace. Additional pressure comes from within, pushing to realize her aims for the country while she remains in good health.

Can Daw Aung San Suu Kyi manage to solve Myanmars main problems during the tenure of this administration, before the next election in 2020? She will be 75. It seems thus far to be an impossible mission. But as long as she remains strong well into her seventies, her millions of supporters will likely continue to see her as someone who will achieve their aspirations for the country in time.

As The Ladys age advances, we must begin to look toward the next generation of government. Where are our younger potential leaders who can take responsibility for the unfinished duties of building the country?

Kyaw Zwa Moe is the editor of The Irrawaddys English edition.
YANGON  While supporters and followers of Myanmars State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi celebrated their leaders 72nd birthday on Monday with cakes and bouquets, the artist MPP Yei Myint marked the day with paints and brushes.

Instead of saying Happy Birthday Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, he takes a more traditional approach for Myanmar, with Mingalabar 72, wishing prosperity, blessing or anything auspicious, joyous for the State Counselor on her birthday and onward.

He uses the greeting as the title of his 15th solo show from June 17-21 in Yangons Cloud 31 Art Gallery.

As the name of the show suggests, the 54 acrylic paintings open to the public are solely about the Ladymostly close-up portraits of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, from her younger days to campaign trails to her time as the countrys State Counselor.

I just honor her and the country she is serving. I juxtaposed the Myanmar traditional greeting word [mingalarbar] with someone we valued, explained the 64-year old artist.

Some of the paintings not only depict Daw Aung San Suu Kyi but also excerpts from her speeches as well.

Apart from the canvas, the artist uses the National League for Democracy partys flaga white star and yellow fighting peacock on a red backgroundas a backdrop for the Ladys portrait and her speech extracts.

The paintings are in two different sizes: two feet by three feet, and three feet by four feet, with prices ranging from 500,000-2,000,000 kyats.

Asked if he has a birthday wish for her beyond mingalabar, MPP Yei Myint said he wishes her good health to help her achieve the peace she so covets for her country, referring to the governments ongoing and elusive peace process with ethnic armed groups.

Without her, I see no one to lead the peace process, he said.
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Shalom L. Goldman | (Informed Comment) |  

On Donald Trumps two- day visit to Jerusalem in late May, a visit which disrupted commercial and cultural life in both the Jewish and Arab sectors of the city, the American president, his extended family, and others in his very large (or should I say Huge) entourage spent an inordinate amount of time in museums. While Trump and his associates are not known generally for their interest in art and history, Israeli officials areas long as the art is Jewish art and as long as the history supports the Israeli national narrative

Yad Va-shem , the Holocaust museum, was a must for Trump , as it is for all foreign dignitaries who visit united Jerusalem. But to the embarrassment of his Israeli hosts, who expected him to stay for at least an hour at the solemn site , Trump insisted on a short visit, one lasting no more than ten minutes. And in one of the many strange gaffes of Trumps first overseas trip, the remarks he wrote in the museums visitors book were breezy at best and bewildering at worst .

It is a great honor to be here with all of my friends  so amazing and will never forget!

At Jerusalems Israel Museum Trump spent considerably more time than at Yad Vashem, and his words there seemed more carefully chosen. The many Israeli Jewish dignitaries assembled at the museum were no-doubt thrilled to hear the president praise their  spirit with these evocations of the deep past.

This museum where we are gathered today tells the story of that spirit  from the two Holy Temples, to the glorious heights of Masada, we see an incredible story of faith and perseverance. That faith is what inspired Jews to believe in their destiny, to overcome their despair, and to build here a future that others dared not to dream.

Though Christians and Muslims were mentioned in passing in Trumps speech, it was only to assure the world that these people have the freedom to worship at the holy places. That members of these religious minorities, many of whom are citizens of the state, might have a claim on the Israeli spirit didnt seem to occur to Trumps speechwriters. For them, as for most Americans, Israeli means Jewish.

In our current era of not-so- blissful ignorance, the basic fact that twenty percent of Israels citizens are not Jews seems too confusing for most Americans, whether they are Democrats are Republicans.

Donald Trumps Speech at Israel Museum/

Trumps visits to Yad Vashem and the Israel Museum will not soon be forgotten; both his supporters and his detractors made note of his every move in the Holy Land. And Trumps interactions with Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife Sarah, embarrassing to many Israelis because of the fawning behavior of Israels First Couple, has already provided rich material for Israels talented satirists.

But overlooked by the army of journalists, pundits and observers who accompanied Trump on his whirlwind visit to Israel, were two other Jerusalem museum stories with messages that to many liberals in Israel and the US seem ominous.

These relatively unknown museums are The Museum of ToleranceJerusalem , and The Friends of Zion Museum (FOZ) The first is still under construction; the FOZ opened its doors more than a year ago.

These two American-funded cultural institutions face one another across a parking lot between Zion Square and Mamilah.

The Museum of Tolerance, a branch of its Los Angeles parent institution, is being constructed on land adjacent to a Muslim cemetery.

As I reported in a 2010 Religion Dispatches article:

For the Arabs of Jerusalem and of the rest of Israel, the construction of the Museum of Tolerance is an affront to human dignity, for it involves the desecration of a large Muslim cemetery. The cemetery lies under a parking lot constructed in the 1960s and it extends far beyond it into the area of Independence Park and into what remains of the original Mamillah cemetery. The cemetery had been in continuous use from the tenth century until the early twentieth century. Hundreds of skeletons have been exhumed from the museum construction site. Most of those exhumations were done in a six month period between November 2008 and April 2009.

If the museum project was started in 2004 why did the exhumations take place only last year? Because Israeli citizens took the case to court. Until November 2008 excavation of the site was held up by a court injunction. The Israeli High Court of Justice (the equivalent of the US Supreme Court) decided in October of that year to reject the request of the Islamic Movement of Northern Israel that the construction be halted as it constitutes a desecration of Muslim holy place. The court rejected the Islamic Movements petition. Work at the museum then proceeded at a furious pace. Working around the clock, the excavators exhumed the graves under the supervision of an Israeli archeologist. The number of skeletons taken out of the site numbered between one thousand and fifteen hundred. According to Gideon Sulaimani, an archeologist who worked at the site before the court injunction went into effect They call this an archeological excavation but its really a clearing-out, an erasure of the Muslim past.

While the Museum of Tolerance is a Jewish institution headed by a Rabbi, the FOZ is very much an Evangelical Christian institution and it is headed by an American pastor.

According to its website the Friends of Zion Museum is a once in a lifetime experience for audiences from around the world. Visitors enter a whole new world, where they meet the biblical figures, academics, businessmen, and military officials who, through their faith, have forged an everlasting bond between the Jewish and Christian peoples.

As a Christian Zionist institution deeply influenced by the various Prophecy Movements of the Twentieth Century, the FOZ is deeply committed to a biblical  view of the Middle East, a view that resonates strongly with many in Trumps evangelical voting base. And this it was thus no surprise that in honor of Trumps Jerusalem visit the FOZ festooned the streets of Jerusalem with large posters that announced that TRUMP IS A FRIEND OF ZION.

Shalom Goldman is professor of religion at Middlebury College. He has authored numerous books, including Zeal for Zion: Christians, Jews, and the Promised Land and Gods Sacred Tongue: Hebrew and the American Imagination. His most recent book is Jewish-Christian Difference and Modern Jewish Identity.



Related video added by Juan Cole:

Inside President Trumps Suite At Iconic Jerusalem Hotel | NBC News
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by Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |  

A man driving a white van swerved just after midnight early Monday morning into a crowd of Muslims coming out of Finsbury Park Mosque in North London, severely injuring British Muslims. The Muslim Council of Britain called it a violent manifestation of Islamophobia. The organization asked for more security for British mosques.

As of this writing, one man was dead and 10 others wounded.

One eyewitness told the Telegraph, We are shocked when we heard the news because we were just having a good time. We were praying for peace and for Grenfell Tower.

It is the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and worshipers often go to mosque late in the evening to pray extra, supererogatory prayers.

An eyewitness interviewed in Arabic on Al Jazeera said that the man was white, was cursing the Muslims and spoke with a working class accent.

He was also careful to say that Finsbury Park is an ethnically mixed area with good relations among the races and that Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbin lives near the mosque and has made friendly visits to it. (I lived there one summer myself and remember the ethnic kaleidoscope).

Another interviewee, for the BBC, said that the man was shouting I want to kill all Muslims!

Finsbury Park Mosque Attack: We held him (attacker) to the ground  BBC News

Locals wrestled him to the ground and held him until the police came (some half an hour to forty minutes later). One said he asked them to kill him.

The attack seems pretty surely a response to the attack at the London Bridge by three ISIL militants

Finsbury Park Mosque: Man dies as van hits mosque crowd  BBC News

Unlike the London Bridge atrocity, this act of white terrorism will not be given the wall-to-wall coverage treatment on cable news.

Whoever the murderous bigot is that carried out this cold-blooded murder has fallen for ISILs (ISIS, Daesh) strategy, which is to polarize people of Christian and Muslim heritage and create hatred and insecurity between them. ISIL, which is rapidly losing its territory in Iraq and Syria, hopes to come west and embed itself in European and American Muslim communities. The problem for Muslim extremism is that very, very few Western Muslims are interested in extremism. Almost all of them appreciate the benefits of Western democracy and ways of life.

So ISIL does not have much hope of recruiting more than a handful of marginal personalities petty thieves and losers. (For some reason it also only has any success in getting a few troubled young men of the second immigrant generation to join up. First generation and third generation immigrants are not interested. Apparently being in between worlds is alienating).

So what ISIL wants to do instead is to recruit white people of Christian heritage to beat up Muslims and terrify them and make them insecure. And then ISIL thinks its recruiters can show up in Muslim communities and promise people protection and security. This modus operandi was typical of how they took over so much of Sunni Iraq. They had been hitting Shiites with terrorist attacks and provoking Shiites to lash out at Sunnis.

Britain, a country of 65 million, has some 3 million Muslims, and it would be a very, very bad mistake to fall into ISILs trap.

ISIL and other extremists want us to be afraid. The only proper response is to refuse to be afraid.

ISIL and other extremists want us to hate. The only proper response is instead to love.

ISIL and other extremists want us to lash out violently. The only proper response is nonviolence.

When ISIL attacks, people of Christian and Jewish heritage should find a Muslim and be spontaneously nice to them.

Studies show that Muslims in the West who attend mosque are much less likely ever to become radicals. Attacking mosque congregations is an attempt to undo that good work.

So we come to the question in my headline. Donald J. Trump is one of the chief dupes of ISIL strategy, and his election as president last November gave him a very loud megaphone with which to broadcast hate and polarization. He is aided in this by the worst person in the world, alt-Neo-Nazi Steve Bannon, the chief White House strategist, who is working toward Catholic-Muslim polarization of a sort some fear could lead to blood in the streets.

During his campaign, Trump whipped up irrational hatred of Muslims, which some call Islamophobia. He said I think Islam hates us. He announced that he wanted to ban Muslims from entering the United States.

After the London Bridge attack at the beginning of June, Trump tweeted that it vindicated his Muslim ban. It did no such thing, since you cant blame all the Muslims in 6 countries for crimes committed by one or two people from that country. Besides, many acts of terrorism are committed by citizens, as was true of the one today.

Then Trump accused London mayor Sadiq Khan of playing down the seriousness of the attacks, as a person of Muslim heritage. The mayor in fact had simply said that there would be extra police on the streets of London and that the public should not be alarmed by their presence. Trump twisted his words to imply he wasnt taking the attack seriously.

Trump has admirers in the fringe British Islamophobic groups, including in UKIP, and his demonization of all Muslims for the acts of a few has emboldened militant bigots on both sides of the Atlantic.

Trump and Bannon are not savvy, strong Western politicians bravely standing up to the threat of radical Islamic terrorism. They are behaving precisely as the radicals want. They are dupes.

And they are making other people dupes.

This polarization strategy, and the people that fall for it, leads to catastrophe, as we saw with ISIL in Iraq and Syria.

Dont go down that path.
Mamata Banerjee today appealed for calm in Darjeeling, where the GJM's week-old shutdown call turned violent on Saturday. Sunday was largely peaceful with sporadic reports of violence.

By India Today Web Desk: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appealed for calm and peace after a weekend of violence in Darjeeling hills, where the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is observing an indefinite shutdown.

Uneasy calm prevailed on Sunday after GJM activists were allegedly shot dead by security forces in clashes on Saturday. The protesters, who are pressing for a separate state of Gorkhaland, took out a large rally on Sunday with the bodies of activists allegedly killed in police firing.

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CM Banerjee, who left for the Netherlands today to address a United Nations meet, accused GJM of trying to create an "ethnic" divide in Darjeeling and said violence won't be tolerated. The Darjeeling bandh, which was sparked over the West Bengal government's purported decision to make Bengali compulsory in state schools, completed a week today.

DARJEELING UNREST: THE LATEST Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on her way to the Netherlands, said her ministers were monitoring the situation in the Darjeeling hills and the Dooars. They (GJM) are trying to create an ethnic riot in Darjeeling, this is not right. I appeal to everyone to maintain peace," Mamata said, adding that violence will not be tolerated. Sunday witnessed massive protests in Darjeeling and sporadic incidents of violence in Kalimpong and Kurseong after the GJM called a "black day" in the north Bengal hills. The GJM's 12-hour strike in Dooars -- foothills covering parts of Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts -- received lukewarm response. Compared to Saturday, Sunday was largely peaceful with reports sporadic violence and no reports of clashes between protesters and police. GJM supporters allegedly vandalised two cars in Kurseong and torched three panchayat offices in the neighbouring Kalimpong district while a prominent library in Kalimpong town went ablaze with the administration blaming 'GJM-backed goons' for it. Darjeeling, on the other hand, saw a large rally. Holding aloft the tricolour, GJM youth members led the rally from Chawk Bazar, the famous lower market area on the Hill cart Road in Darjeeling, passionately shouting pro-Gorkhaland slogans. Shouts of "Police go back" and "Gorkhaland-Gorkhaland" reverberated through the picturesque hills as some Gorkha activists claimed that the protest has shifted from the political to the commoners' movement in the hills. The rally in Darjeeling saw protesters carry coffins of three activists allegedly killed in police firing on Saturday. The claims have been denied by West Bengal officials. "There are more than 15,000 people in the rally today. This is not just GJM. People of the hills have come together to demand separate Gorkhaland. Let's see how far we can go," a young woman was heard telling the media. Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Kumar Chaturvedi, however, denied the large turnout, saying that only around 2,000 protesters had participated in the rally. Speaking to news agency IANS Chaturvedi also said the rally "was by and large peaceful. There were no instances of violence in Darjeeling today". The rally was preceded by a silent march of civilians demanding peace be restored to the region. Terming the situation "very very volatile", GJM leader Amar Singh Rai claimed that a separate state of Gorkhaland is the biggest priority for them and rebuffed any possibility of discussions with the Bengal government. "We will seek a discussion with the Centre. But only on one agenda -- a separate state of Gorkhaland," he added. Notably, on Sunday, the GJM, a Bharatiya Janata Party ally, slammed the Narendra Modi government, expressing disappointment over the centre's role. The GJM also questioned why the BJP MP from Darjeeling, SS Ahluwalia, has not visited the place once since the unrest began. Effects of the strike reverberated in New Delhi where Gorkhas protested against Mamata Banerjee in the national capital. Hundreds of Gorkhas gathered at Jantar Mantar with national flags and banners saying 'We want Gorkhaland'. The GJM announced an indefinite general strike from last Monday in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and the Dooars to oppose the government's purported decision to make study of Bengali language compulsory in state-run schools -- despite the government clarification this would not be applicable in this region -- and to press for a separate state of Gorkhaland.

ALSO READ | Darjeeling hills burn over Gorkhaland: Why Bimal Gurung must recall 2009 Supreme Court guidelines

ALSO READ | Darjeeling unrest reaches Delhi, Gorkhas stage protest against Mamata Banerjee at Jantar Mantar

ALSO WATCH | GJM attacks BJP MP from Darjeeling Ahluwalia for not visiting since crisis broke out

--- ENDS ---
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Asma Afsaruddin | (The Conversation) |  

Editors note: A conservative grassroots organization, ACT for America, organized a March against Sharia in at least 20 cities across the United States on Saturday, June 10. Professor of Islamic Studies at Indiana University Asma Afsaruddin explains Sharia and dispels a number of myths about it.

What is Sharia law?

Sharia in Arabic means the way, and does not refer to a body of law. Sharia is more accurately understood as referring to wide-ranging moral and broad ethical principles drawn from the Quran and the practices and sayings (hadith) of Prophet Muhammad. These broad principles are interpreted by jurists to come up with specific legal rulings and moral prescriptions. The body of legal rulings that emerges from the interpretation of Sharia law is commonly referred to as Islamic law, or as fiqh in Arabic. It is the result of human intellectual activity and is therefore, by definition, fallible and changeable.

Is it true that Sharia does prescribe harsh punishment for acts such as adultery?

I want to caution against reducing Sharia to just one or two legal principles and picking out certain punishments as being characteristic of Sharia. It is much more fruitful to start with Sharias fundamental objectives.

Street scene, Beirut, h/t Wikimedia

Sharia provides guidance on how to live an ethical life. It lays down guidelines on how to pray and how to treat ones family members, neighbors and those who are in need. It requires Muslims to be just and fair in their dealings with everyone, to refrain from lying and gossip, etc., and always to promote what is good and prevent what is wrong.

Muslim scholars reflecting on the larger objectives of Sharia have said that laws derived from it must always protect the following: life, intellect, family, property and the honor of human beings.

These five objectives create what we may consider to be a premodern Islamic Bill of Rights, providing protection for civil liberties.

On the specific question of adultery, Islam, like some other religions, takes a strong position, since it seeks to promote the sanctity and stability of the family. Those found guilty of adultery are supposed to be punished by lashing (based on the Quran) or stoning (based on hadith).

But there is a high bar of evidence that must be met before this punishment can be meted out: Four witnesses must observe the actual act of penetration. Even in this age of voyeurism, it would be next to impossible to meet this criterion. The prescribed punishment for adultery was therefore hardly ever carried out in the premodern world.

This situation is in contrast to the brutal stonings that have been carried out in the modern, post-colonial period in a handful of Muslim majority countries, like Nigeria and Pakistan. From my perspective, the above-mentioned rules of evidence were not given due regard. In many such cases, modern jurists who may have very little training in classical Islamic law and do not understand the principles of Sharia are being asked to implement Islamic punishments by politicians who want to appear Islamic. Stoning appears to be a dramatic way of asserting a shallow Islamic identity, often in conscious opposition to the West. There are other jurists who have criticized these sensationalist examples of stoning as being in violation of fundamental moral and legal principles within Islam.

Is Sharia anti-women?

Most definitely not. The Quran recognizes the absolute equality of men and women as human beings and proclaims that they are each others partners in promoting the common good.

Sharia provides women with certain rights that were practically unheard of in the premodern world. It requires that both men and women have equal access to knowledge; it requires a womans consent before marriage; and it allows her the right to initiate divorce under certain conditions. Muslim jurists allowed abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy, especially if the mothers health was in jeopardy.

Above all, Sharia allows a woman to inherit property from her male relatives and to keep this property for herself, even after marriage  her husband cannot lay any claim to it. In contrast, European Christian women were not allowed to hold on to their property after marriage until the 19th century. Muslim feminists campaigning for equal legal rights in Muslim majority societies today draw their arguments and strength from Sharia.

Honor killings and female genital mutilation, that are often described by the media as Islamic, are in fact non-Islamic tribal practices that have no basis in Sharia. Female genital mutilation is practiced by non-Muslims as well.

At least nine states in America have passed foreign law statutes banning Sharia in American courts. What was behind the fear? Is Sharia law being implemented anywhere in America?

As I see it, fear and hatred of Islam and Muslims or Islamophobia is propelling an anti-Sharia campaign. The U.S. Constitution remains the law of the land. Sharia does not apply to non-Muslims anyway so the hysteria that is now being incited by certain groups, I believe, is based on utter ignorance and bigotry. This bigotry underlying the anti-Sharia campaign was recognized by the American Bar Association when it passed a resolution in 2011 opposing various anti-Sharia measures. As the resolution stated:

Initiatives that target an entire religion or stigmatize an entire religious community, such as those explicitly aimed at Sharia law, are inconsistent with some of the core principles and ideals of American jurisprudence.

To set the record straight, one should note that anti-Sharia legislation has been defeated in Florida, Missouri and Oklahoma and the fight continues in states such as Michigan.

Is Sharia the law of the land in Muslim countries? How does the implementation differ?

Traditionally, Muslim countries have belonged to one of four major schools of law that developed in the 10th century. These legal schools interpreted Sharia somewhat differently on various matters but they were understood to be equally orthodox and valid. Today, Islamic legal rulings are applied primarily in the area of personal and family law, which governs issues of marriage, divorce, and inheritance, among others.

Civil law in most Muslim majority countries is based upon modern Western legal systems, a legacy of the period of European colonization of much of the Islamic world starting in the 19th century. Thus, Egypt borrowed the French civil code, while Turkey adopted Swiss civil law and Indonesia Dutch. The notable exceptions are Saudi Arabia and Iran, which apply Islamic law in the civil and public sphere as well. In the Muslim-majority countries of Pakistan and Afghanistan, tribal law known as jirga law sometimes takes precedence over Islamic law.

Asma Afsaruddin, Professor of Islamic Studies and former Chairperson, Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, Indiana University

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
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Ira Chernus | ( Tomdispatch.com ) |  

Its the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love. What better place to celebrate than that fabled eras epicenter, San Franciscos Golden Gate Park, where the DeYoung Museum has mounted a dazzling exhibition, chock full of rock music, light shows, posters, and fashions from the mind-bending summer of 1967?

If you tour the exhibit, you might come away thinking that the political concerns of the time were no more than parenthetical bookends to that summers real action, its psychedelic counterculture. Only the first and last rooms of the large show are explicitly devoted to political memorabilia. The main body of the exhibit seems devoid of them, which fits well with the story told in so many history books. The hippies of that era, so its often claimed, paid scant attention to political matters.

Take another moment in the presence of all the artifacts of that psychedelic summer, though, and a powerful (if implicit) political message actually comes through, one that couldnt be more unexpected. The counterculture of that era, it turns out, offered a radical challenge to a basic premise of the Washington worldview, then and now, a premise accepted  and spoken almost ritualistically  by every president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt: nothing is more important than our national security.

And believe me, national security should go in those scare quotes as a reminder that its not a given of our world like Mount Whitney or the buffalo. Think of it as an invented idea, an ideological construct something like the invisible hand of capitalism or even liberty and justice for all. Those other two concepts still remain influences in our public life, but like so much else they have become secondary matters since the early days of World War II, when President Roosevelt declared national security the nations number one concern.

However unintentionally, he planted a seed that has never stopped growing. Its increasingly the political equivalent of the kudzu vine that overruns everything in its path. Since Roosevelts day, our political life, federal budget, news media, even popular culture have all become obsessively focused on the supposed safety of Americans, no matter what the actual dangers in our world, and so much else has been subordinated to that. The national security state has become a de facto fourth branch of the federal government (though its nowhere mentioned in the Constitution), a shadow government increasingly looming over the other three.

It says much about the road weve traveled since World War II that such developments now appear so sensible, so necessary. After all, our safety is at stake, right? So the politicians and the media tell us. Who wouldnt be worried in a world where the constant threats to our national security are given such attention, even if at the highest levels of government no one seems quite sure just which enemies  ISIS, Iran, Qatar, the Taliban, al-Qaeda, Russia, North Korea  we should fear most. Who suspected, for example, that Qatar, for so long apparently a U.S. ally in the war against ISIS, would suddenly be cast as that enemys ally and so a menace to us?

To judge from the increasingly dire warnings of politicians and pundits, the only certainty is that, whoever may be out to get us, we need to be constantly on our guard against new threats. Thats where our taxpayer money should go. Thats why secrecy rules the day in Washington and normal Americans know ever less about what exactly their government is doing in their name to protect them. Its a matter of safety, of course. Better safe than sorry, as the saying goes, and even in a democracy better ignorant than sorry, too.

The most frightening part of living in a national security state is that the world is transformed into little else but a vast reservoir of potential enemies, all bent on our destruction. Immersed in and engulfed by such a culture, it may be hard to remember, or even (for those under 65) to believe, that half a century ago a mass social movement arose that challenged not only our warped notion of security, but the very idea of building national life on the quest for security. Yet thats just what the counterculture of the 1960s did.

The challenge reveals itself most clearly in that cultures psychedelic light shows with their densely packed, fluid patterning of shapes and fragmented images [which] literally absorbed audience members into the show, as the DeYoungs website explains. They were events meant to break down all boundaries, even between audience and performers. Posters advertising rock music and light shows displayed the same features and added distorted forms and unreadable, meandering lettering, all meant to create an intense visual effect similar to that experienced by the shows attendees.

In them, a vision of life and a message about it still shines through, one that gives us a glimpse, half a century later, into the most basic values and cultural assumptions of that moment and that movement.

Tear Down the Wall

Novelist Ken Kesey, impresario of the Trips Festival that presaged the Summer of Love, summed up the message in three memorable words: Outside is inside. When the Beatles kicked off that season with the first classic psychedelic record album, Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band, George Harrison echoed Keseys vision in his song Within You Without You, a haunting meditation

About the space between us all

And the people

Who hide themselves behind a wall of illusion

Never glimpse the truth

Were all one

And life flows on within you and without you.

What could this possibly have to do with national security? Applied to our moment, think of it this way: if were all one, if outside is indeed inside and within you is without you, then it makes no sense to blame our problems on foreigners and build walls to keep those people out of our land and our lives. In Summer of Love terms, it would instead make perfect sense to tear down every wall enclosing our Trumpian world  walls that are supposed to divide Americans from foreigners, Anglos from Latinos, straights from gays, men from women, elites from the working class, and so on into an endlessly secure future.

The Jefferson Airplane, a house band of the Summer of Love, put the message of that moment in an explicitly political context. Presenting themselves as patriotic Volunteers, they urged Americans to tear down the walls so that we can be together. To be sure, most people remained deaf to such calls. But two summers later, at the Woodstock Festival, a new nation would take an initial step toward creating itself through the revolutionary act of tearing down its own walls and fences. There was no security, a photographer at Woodstock recalled. The idea was that it wasnt necessary. By logical extension, todays political borders of all sorts deserve the same treatment because they, too, are unnecessary.

As the hippies came to see it, all the walls and fences we create are more than just unnecessary. They are, as George Harrison sang, illusions born of and built around the fiction of separateness. Recognize that illusion and another one immediately becomes obvious: the fears that spark the obsession with national security are largely illusory, too. Yet they are endless because what we are truly trying to fend off is not an external enemy but, in the famed words of President Roosevelt in his first inaugural address, fear itself.

At about the time Ken Kesey was hosting his Trips Festival, John Lennon of the Beatles discovered The Psychedelic Experience, a book co-authored by LSD gurus Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert. It moved him to sing that there really was nothing to be afraid of: Turn off your mind relax and float down stream, It is not dying, it is not dying.

The psychedelic rock shows, light shows, and posters were all meant to turn life into that single swirling stream, dissolving every imaginable boundary line, and so teaching that reality itself is just such a stream. To quote the nineteenth-century poet Walt Whitman (as so many did in the Summer of Love), let yourself be loosd of limits and imaginary lines and you are henceforth secure, whatever comes or goes.

The most widely read San Francisco intellectual of that year, Alan Watts, caught the moment (and pushed it yet further) in the very title of his book, The Wisdom of Insecurity. He spelled out what the light shows and posters communicated in a flash: what we think of as separate places, inside and outside, are merely two intertwined parts, two different ways of describing a single reality. Ditto for self and other, friend and enemy, life and death. The pursuit of security, he suggested even then, creates an illusory separation between friend and enemy in an effort to protect the self and life against the other and feared death. It is, he insisted, always doomed to fail, since all those opposites are inseparable. And ironically, the more we fail, the more frightened we become, and so the more frantically we pursue both the walling off of others and the illusion of security. Far wiser and more life-enhancing, Watts concluded, was to accept the inevitability of insecurity, the truth that in the stream of life, the next moment is always as unpredictable as it is uncontrollable.

Why worry about security at all if, as Lennon announced just as the Summer of Love was reaching full swing,

Theres nowhere you can be that isnt where

Youre meant to be,

Its easy.

All you need is love.

The English language has no word to describe the state where love (if youll excuse this word) trumps both security and insecurity. The hippies had little interest in finding a new word to describe how life was truly to be experienced, but perhaps, until something better comes along, a term like non-security  a state of being unconcerned with the whole issue of security  will do.

The gospel of non-security went forth from Haight-Ashbury (and New York Citys East Village) across the land. Hippies everywhere (even in Nebraska, my wife, who comes from there, assures me) assiduously cultivated such a state of mind. It was perhaps the most essential byproduct of their counterculture and it helped underpin a mass movement, seldom considered in the context of national politics, that remains the most radical and powerful challenge yet to Washingtons present ruling passion for national security and the vast panoply of 17 intelligence outfits, tens of millions of classified documents, a surveillance apparatus that would have stunned the totalitarian states of the twentieth century, and a military into which taxpayer dollars are invested at an unparalleled rate.

When the Counterculture Met the New Left

Fifty years later, the countercultures thinking on the subject of security may sound like little more than a quaint and spacy fantasy. Even then, non-security was light-years away from the reality of most Americans in a country that would soon elect Richard Nixon president. California, always at the cutting edge, had already made former Hollywood actor Ronald Reagan governor and so began to pave the superhighway that has now led Donald Trump to the White House.

President Trump and his minions are visibly eager to take money from people in need and lavish it on what is already the worlds largest military budget, larger than those of numerous other major powers combined. They are just as eager to spend money on a wall stretching from the Pacific to the Gulf of Mexico, high, wide, and forbidding (or as the president likes to say, big, fat, [and] beautiful) enough to keep Spanish-speaking foreigners out of the U.S.A. They would also expand the electronic eavesdropping network that can track our every word. And so  as novelist Kurt Vonnegut would once have said  it goes. They justify such plans and so much more in the name of  yes, you guessed it  national security or (more tellingly yet) homeland security. With such people in power, the very idea of non-security seems beyond utopian, like a concept from outer space.

In some ways that was true in the Summer of Love, too, and not just because, even then, it was so far removed from the reality of a dominant culture that would handily survive its challenge. There was also the brute fact that, when thousands of young people heeded the siren call and traveled to San Franciscos Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to experience that season of love in person, it essentially became another crime- and poverty-ridden inner-city slum. Look magazine journalist William Hedgepath, for instance, found the hippies there working toward an open, loving, tension-free world, but also found himself spending the night in a filthy, litter-strewn dope fortress.

Before we rush to judgment, however, its important to remember a reality often overlooked in the history books on hippiedom: most people whose countercultural lives were touched by the gospel of non-security were also touched by, and sometimes swept up in, the much larger political movement to end the war in Vietnam. This meant that their largely unspoken challenge to national security was woven together with another kind of challenge, one that came from the more overtly political New Left leadership of that antiwar movement.

Unlike the hippies, the New Left had no particular interest in experiencing the unsaid and undefined. They were eager instead to find precise words to make their anti-establishment case. And they first did so in 1962. That year, members of a group that called itself Students for a Democratic Society drafted a manifesto at a United Auto Workers retreat in Port Huron, Michigan. It, too, ran against the security thinking of that moment by proclaiming that real security cannot be gained by propping up military defenses, but only through the hastening of political stability, economic growth, greater social welfare, improved education.

Nonetheless, the writers of the Port Huron Statement remained worried about security in a sense that any American of the time would have understood instantly. They, too, divided the world into us and them, friends and enemies, good guys and bad guys. Economic institutions should be in the control of national, not foreign, agencies, they declared, critiquing Americas imperial role in the world. The destiny of any country should be determined by its nationals, not by outsiders. The best their manifesto could foresee in the world arena was coexistence between America and its foes, fueled by economic rather than military competition.

In that sense, radical as it was, the statement offered no direct challenge to the bipartisan consensus that security was every Americans most important concern. Indeed, its language on security issues might easily be endorsed today by the most progressive voices in the Democratic Party, and on the issue of national sovereignty, eerily enough, by Donald Trump and his supporters.

Still, the New Left was focused on using rational planning to move toward a future of more genuine security and less fear for all. In such a future, everyone would be able to develop his or her potential to the fullest, free from a major source of insecurity seldom mentioned more than half a century later: rampant technology deployed by a rabid capitalism that values profits above people.

The counterculture went further, even if rather incoherently, aiming to create a present in which the whole question of security, if it didnt simply disappear, would at least become a distinctly secondary concern. It would be a present in which, adapting a phrase of that moment, all you needed was love. Charles Perry, the historian of Haight-Ashbury, recalled one hippie who summed up the difference between his tribe and the more political types this way: They talk about peace. We are peace.

Each of these sixties critiques of national security was, in its own way, utopian in terms of the realities of its moment, and most radicals of the time, however unconsciously, did their best to negotiate a path between the two. Non-security  an escape from the usual Washington concerns  remained an ideal then, and today its hard to even remember that anyone ever challenged the idea that national security should dominate our lives, our fears, and our dreams.

Half a century later, it should be clear that Washingtons present quest for national security can never end. The national security state itself is a machine that constantly fuels the very fears it claims to fight. In doing so, what it actually condemns Americans to is nothing less than a permanent state of insecurity.

The quest for a more balanced (or even unbalanced) approach to security in the 1960s pointed a way toward at least the possibility of an American world of diminished fears. Now, with a man in the Oval Office who sees enemies everywhere and declares that he alone can save us from them, and with nearly 4 in 10 Americans still approving of the way hes trying to save us, if only there were a radical critique of national security somewhere in our world.

Perhaps its time to take a retrospective look at that Summer of Love moment, half a century ago, and reacquaint ourselves with the two kinds of radicalism of the time, one promoting a more humane idea of security and the other aimed at building a new kind of life that transcended the question of security altogether. Perhaps between them they might spark some truly new thinking about how to respond to the power and dominance of our national security state and to a way of life that shuts us down, locks us in, ratchets up our terrors, and offers us a vision of more of the same until the end of time.

Ira Chernus, a TomDispatch regular, is professor emeritus of religious studies at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and author of the online MythicAmerica: Essays. To read his earlier TomDispatch look at the 1960s and today, Trump, a Symptom of What? A Radical Message From a Half-Century Ago, click here.

Follow TomDispatch on Twitter and join us on Facebook. Check out the newest Dispatch Book, John Dowers The Violent American Century: War and Terror Since World War II, as well as John Feffers dystopian novel Splinterlands, Nick Turses Next Time Theyll Come to Count the Dead, and Tom Engelhardts Shadow Government: Surveillance, Secret Wars, and a Global Security State in a Single-Superpower World.

Copyright 2017 Ira Chernus

Via Tomdispatch.com
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 19, 2017 /CNW/ -- Tahoe Resources Inc. (TSX: THO, NYSE: TAHO) ("Tahoe" or the "Company") reported today that a group of protestors near the town of Casillas in Guatemala has been blocking the primary road that connects Guatemala City to the Escobal Mine near Minera San Rafael. Protests appear to relate to a variety of issues, including some unfounded claims that mining at Escobal is causing seismic activity more than 20 kilometers away in Casillas. The Company is working with the government, community leaders and others to resolve the situation peacefully and expeditiously. We expect lawful and peaceful engagement in the coming week will result in the resolution of this conflict and open transportation routes. While the Company's shipments and supplies have been delayed, the Company does not expect any adjustments to its annual production or cost guidance as a result, and anticipates production and financial performance to be in line with mid-year expectations at the end of the second quarter.

Ron Clayton, President and CEO of Tahoe Resources Inc., commented: "I want to assure shareholders that the roadblock has not affected our guidance for the year. Our operations are performing well and we anticipate that our performance at mid-year will be well within expectations relative to our guidance. However, the delay affects our partner communities and former land owners as well as our employees and suppliers since royalties, wages and fees may be delayed as a result. We are working diligently to engage government and community leaders to resolve the situation."

About Tahoe Resources Inc.

Tahoe's strategy is to responsibly operate mines to world standards, to pay significant shareholder dividends and to develop high quality precious metals assets in the Americas. Tahoe is a member of the S&P/TSX Composite and TSX Global Mining indices and the Russell 3000 on the NYSE. The Company is listed on the TSX as THO and on the NYSE as TAHO.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 19, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Entree Resources Ltd. (TSX: ETG) (NYSE MKT:EGI) (the "Company" or "Entree") is pleased to provide the following corporate update after completion of its restructuring plan which involved the re-branding of "Entree Gold Inc." to "Entree Resources Ltd." and the spin-out of its U.S. development and exploration assets into a new TSX listed vehicle called "Mason Resources Corp." (TSX:MNR). Entree has retained ownership of its joint venture interest in the construction stage Oyu Tolgoi underground mining project in Mongolia as its flagship asset, with other royalty assets in Peru and Australia.

Stephen Scott, Entrees President and CEO, stated, We are very happy to report that the restructuring was completed on schedule and effective May 12, 2017 Entree and Mason Resources began trading independently. Entrees immediate focus will be on protecting and enhancing the value of its Oyu Tolgoi joint venture interest. The Oyu Tolgoi underground project is one of the worlds most important new copper-gold mines, and under the stewardship of our partners, Oyu Tolgoi LLC and developer/operator Rio Tinto, construction remains substantially on schedule. I am very excited about the fast approaching commencement of first development work on the joint venture licenses followed by first joint venture development production in approximately 2021. Entree Resources launched with more than US$9 million in cash which, given our focus on rigorous fiscal management, is sufficient to meet all funding requirements for the foreseeable future.

OYU TOLGOI UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT UPDATE

Turquoise Hill Resources reported on May 15, 2017 that the focus of underground development activities in Q1 2017 continued to be lateral development, sinking of Shafts 2 and 5, support infrastructure and the convey-to-surface system. Approximately the equivalent of one kilometre of lateral development was completed during Q1 2017 and since the re-start of development in 2016 a total of 2.6 equivalent kilometres of lateral development have been completed. Sinking of Shaft 2 is expected to reach its final depth of 1,284 metres later in 2017. Shaft 5 sinking has progressed more slowly than expected due to an extended construction re-start period and lower productivity with completion now likely in early 2018. While sinking progress was slower than expected during Q1 2017, Turquoise Hill expects improved sinking rates for the balance of 2017. Shaft 5 will be dedicated to ventilation thereby increasing the capacity for underground activities. Sinking of Shaft 4, which Entree expects to commence in 2018 based on the anticipated completion date, will be the first physical development on the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property. Turquoise Hill has previously announced that Shaft 4 should be complete in 2021.

Supporting infrastructure progressed during Q1 2017 with camp construction activities increasing. The new development crusher and dewatering system are on target to enable an additional development crew to be added in Q3 2017.

During Q1 2017, development of the convey-to-surface decline continued to progress following completion of bulk excavation at the end of 2016. The convey-to-surface system is the eventual route of the full 95,000 tonne per day underground ore delivery system to the concentrator. Turquoise Hill continues to expect production from the first draw bell on the Oyu Tolgoi property in mid-2020.

Refer to Turquoise Hills May 15, 2017 press release for further details on the development of the underground mine at Oyu Tolgoi.

CORPORATE ACTIVITIES

Near term priorities for Entree will include:

Completion of an updated Technical Report which will include a Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint ventures Hugo North Extension Lift 2 and Heruga deposits. Amec Foster Wheeler has been retained to complete an initial data review to be followed by the updated Technical Report. Completion of this Technical Report will be an important milestone and help investors understand the underlying value of Entrees flagship asset.

Entree will continue to assess other value accretive royalty and development opportunities, however given the quality of existing assets, Entree will take a very disciplined approach and apply stringent filters to the evaluation process.

Identifying opportunities to streamline Entrees joint venture interest and/or crystalize value ahead of production from the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property.

The Company will continue to remain prudent and identify opportunities to reduce its corporate burn rate expected to be approximately US$1 million per annum going forward.

MANAGEMENT

Entree Resources will continue to be managed by the successful Entree Gold team led by Chairman Michael Howard, President and CEO Stephen Scott, CFO Duane Lo, VP Legal Affairs Susan McLeod, and VP Corporate Development Rob Cinits.

ABOUT ENTREE RESOURCES LTD.

Entree Resources Ltd. is a well-funded Canadian mining company with a unique carried joint venture interest on a significant portion of one of the worlds largest copper-gold projects  the Oyu Tolgoi project in Mongolia. The Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property includes the Hugo North Extension and Heruga copper-gold deposits, as well as a large underexplored, highly prospective land package. Rio Tinto is managing the construction of Lift 1 of the Hugo North underground block cave on both the Oyu Tolgoi mining license and the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property. Lift 1 underground development is fully financed. Entree has a 30% carried interest in all mineralization identified above 560 metres elevation, and a 20% carried interest in all mineralization extracted below 560 metres elevation from the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property. Sandstorm Gold Ltd., Rio Tinto and Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd. are major shareholders of Entree, holding approximately 14%, 10% and 8% of the shares of the Company, respectively. More information about Entree can be found at www.EntreeResourcesLtd.com.
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 19, 2017) - Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "Torex") (TSX:TXG) is pleased to announce high grade intercepts for the first 25 holes of its infill drilling program at the Sub-Sill deposit, associated with its El Limon-Guajes Mine (ELG) in Southwest Mexico. Highlighted intercepts from this program include 39.1 g/t Au over 9.7m, including 114.1 g/t Au over 2.9m, in borehole SST-49; 107.3 g/t Au over 3.1m in borehole SST-50; 32.1 g/t Au over 13.0m, including 68.9 g/t Au over 4.0m in borehole SST-54; and 27.3 g/t Au over 14.8m, including 62.1 g/t Au over 4.9m in borehole SST-47.

Fred Stanford, President & CEO of Torex stated: "The purpose of this infill diamond drill program is to upgrade a million tonnes of Inferred Sub-Sill resource to the Measured and Indicated categories, to facilitate mine planning and the determination of a maiden mineral reserve. Of the 50 planned infill diamond drill holes, 41 have been completed to date, and assays have been received for 25 of those holes. To date, the 'hit ratio' has been 96%, with 24 holes intercepting high grade gold mineralization. This exceptional demonstration of the continuity of the gold mineralization has held true across the current resource area, including at the periphery. This bodes well for the mine planning efforts and indicates the potential for resource expansion with step-out drilling. The timing is excellent as the access ramp is now through the sill and progressed 40 meters into the less prospective endoskarn, and is less than 10 meters from intersecting the highly prospective exoskarn." He added, "The step-out diamond drill program is getting underway as the infill program is completed. The step-out program comprises approximately 7,500 meters in 31 holes that test the area adjacent to the current resource and then out to the periphery of the prospective area for Sub-Sill expansion. This drill program is expected to be completed through the second half of the year and we look forward to sharing those results."

Highlights from the infill drilling at the El Limon Sub-Sill

BH ID Interval (m) Interval

Length (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Lithology From To SST-47 91.91 94.25 2.3 11.8 16.9 0.5 Skarn 97.89 102.05 4.2 8.2 1.5 0.0 Skarn 105.26 120.09 14.8 27.3 19.0 0.9 Skarn Including 111.87 116.78 4.9 62.1 50.4 2.2 Skarn 133.52 135.54 2.0 21.2 10.2 0.3 Skarn SST-49 79.63 89.32 9.7 39.1 8.2 0.1 Skarn Including 82.93 85.78 2.9 114.4 14.6 0.1 Skarn 153.00 159.17 6.2 16.1 49.3 2.1 Skarn SST-50 142.33 154.87 12.5 3.7 1.9 0.0 Skarn 171.88 174.97 3.1 107.3 53.5 2.1 Skarn SST-54 54.50 62.92 8.4 13.3 48.7 3.6 Skarn 72.00 83.85 11.9 9.2 76.8 3.1 Skarn 100.40 113.40 13.0 32.1 25.7 0.4 Skarn Including 106.40 110.40 4.0 68.9 19.4 0.5 Skarn SST-59 105.92 117.27 11.4 23.2 7.0 0.2 Skarn Including 105.92 108.76 2.8 43.9 7.0 0.1 Skarn 139.17 140.77 1.6 32.4 36.0 2.5 Skarn

Note:

True thickness of the mineralized zone is unknown and is reported as drill hole length

Please refer to Table 1 for a complete list and expanded description of the borehole intercepts reported in this press release.

Figure 1: General Borehole Location





The Company's Sub-Sill in-fill diamond drilling program comprises a total of 50 holes (7455m). The purpose of the program, at a 17.5m x 17.5m drill pattern, is to upgrade 1,000,000 tonnes, over an area of 250m x 150m, to the Indicated category, which will support the development of a mine plan. The positive results to date confirm the geological continuity of the skarn zones as well as the continuity and the strength of the mineralization system. The drilling program also demonstrates the existence and continuity of other mantos underneath the main ore zone explored that were not included in the resource estimate due to the insufficient drilling at the time.

The Sub-Sill area is located between the El Limon and El Limon Sur ore deposits and under the El Limon Sill. The El Limon Sill area occurs in the Mesozoic carbonate-rich Morelos Platform, which has been intruded by Paleocene granodiorite stocks, sills and dikes. Skarn-hosted gold mineralization is developed along the contacts of the intrusive rocks and the enclosing carbonate-rich sedimentary rocks. Structurally, the El Limon Sill target area as well as El Limon and El Limon Sur ore deposits are hosted in a graben bounded by La Flaca fault to the west and the Antena fault to the east, and both are considered to be potential feeders for the mineralization. At the El Limon Sill area, several skarn zones have been identified along the contacts of the carbonate rich sediments and marbles of the Cuautla and Morelos formations and sills fingering out from the main granodiorite stock. High grade gold mineralization has been intercepted in all the different skarn horizons. Within the skarn zones individual ore shoots vary in strike length from approximately 50 meters up to 200 meters, with apparent widths varying from 2 meters to 27 meters.

Mineralization at the El Limon Sill area is primarily gold, associated with variable contents of silver and copper. Gold occurs in low and high sulfidized pyrrhotite rich skarns, while silver and copper mineralization is primarily determined by the degree of sulfidation of the host skarn. Mineralization is strongly associated with a late stage retrograde alteration characterized by amphiboles, chlorite, calcite  quartz  epidote, affecting pyroxene-garnet marble related exoskarn and granodiorite porphyry related endoskarn. Locally mineralization occurs in narrow lenses of massive sulfides.

QA/QC and Qualified Person

At the Morelos Gold Project, all of the El Limon Sill target analytical work is performed by SGS de Mexico S.A. de C.V. ("SGS") in Durango, Mexico and at SGS Mineral Services in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and ALS Chemex de Mexico S.A. de C.V.

Sample preparation is done at SGS sample preparation laboratory in Durango, Mexico. The gold analyses (fire assay with an atomic absorption or gravimetric finish) are completed at SGS analytical laboratory in Durango, Mexico and multi-element geochemical analyses are Copper Sequential Leaching are completed at their analytical facilities in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Check assays samples are analyzed at ALS Chemex Vancouver, BC, Canada. SGS and ALS Chemex are independent of the Company.

The Company has a Quality Assurance/Quality Control ("QA/QC") program in place that includes 5% of each of the certified reference materials, blanks and field duplicates. 10% of pulp samples are analyzed at a second laboratory as part of the QA/QC program to ensure the batch to batch relative bias remains constant and that absolute accuracy at anomalous to near cut-off grades is measured and acceptable. The QA/QC program as designed has been approved by Bureau Veritas and is currently overseen by Carlo Nasi, Chief Mine Geologist for the Morelos Gold Project.

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the Morelos Project has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Mark P. Hertel as a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Hertel is a Registered Member of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, has experience relevant to the style of mineralization under consideration and is an independent consultant. Mr. Hertel has verified the data disclosed, including sampling, analytical, and test data underlying the drill results and he consents to the inclusion in this release of said data in the form and context in which it appears.

Additional information on the El Limon deposit, the mineral resource estimate for the Sub-Sill deposit and analytical labs is available in the Company's most recent annual information form filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website at www.torexgold.com.

Torex is an emerging intermediate gold producer based in Canada, engaged in the exploration, development and operation of its 100% owned Morelos Gold Property, an area of 29,000 hectares in the highly prospective Guerrero Gold Belt located 180 kilometers southwest of Mexico City. Within this property, Torex has the El Limon Guajes Mine, which announced commercial production in March of 2016 and the Media Luna Project, which is in an advanced stage of exploration, and for which the Company issued a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) in 2015. The property remains 75% unexplored.
By Tong Kim





President Moon's meeting with President Trump in Washington at the end of this month will determine whether the United States and the Republic of Korea can work together more effectively to deal with North Korean nuclear and missile threats. As reported, their agenda will focus on the alliance, the North Korean issue, and bilateral trade issues.

The two countries share a common interest in a strong alliance and a peaceful resolution of the North Korean threats. The alliance is for deterrence and defense against the North. However, Trump does not feel the trade relationship is fair to the U.S.

It will be easy for both leaders to agree to build a stronger alliance. On trade, there have been suggestions that Moon should offer an economic package of investment and import of more American goods that will create jobs in the U.S., a Trump priority in line with "America First." The trade issue can and should be manageable, without renegotiating the free trade agreement.

On the North Korean issue, it will be difficult to agree beyond a common approach in principle. On June 15, Moon reaffirmed his pursuit of engagement with the North, "If North Korea suspends additional nuclear or missile provocations, we will engage them without conditions." Trump and his advisors have also expressed their preference of a negotiated settlement, although they are not ready for talks now.

Reportedly, THAAD is not included in the topics for summit discussion. But, the unpredictable, impulsive Trump might bring it up to press Moon for rapid completion of operational readiness of a THAAD battery by positioning four remaining launchers at its base in Seongju.

THAAD is a complicated issue beyond a military rationale. It is a political issue fraught with domestic politics and a geopolitical controversy. The THAAD system already deployed to Korea is likely to stay after going through the domestic legal procedures of an environment survey and a parliamentary review.

Trump is unlikely to ask Moon to pay for the THAAD. Nor is it likely that the delay with THAAD or the perception of Moon's reluctance to cooperate on THAAD would lead to the weakening of the alliance or the withdrawal of American troops from Korea.

North Korea is urged to make the right strategic choice: to suspend its path toward a functional nuclear/ICBM capability and freeze its programs at the current level, sufficient for its defense. Pyongyang knows the United States does not prefer a military solution.

Although the U.S. does not seem to have a plan to wage a preventive strike at the present time, it may be forced to take that option at some point, if the North keeps ratcheting up its threats. Defense Secretary Mattis told Congress on June 12 that a war with the North "would be a war like nothing we have seen since 1953, and the U.S. would have to deal with it with whatever force is necessary." This is if diplomacy fails to make a difference.

On June 13, North Korea released Otto Warmbier, an American student, who was sentenced to serve 15 years of hard labor in prison. It was shocking to learn that the detainee was in a coma when he was released. We don't know how long he was in a coma during the 17 months of his detention in the North. If Warmbier had been released in good health, it could have bodewell for diplomacy.

During the transition period for the Trump administration, there was an aborted effort by a former Republican Congressman, who tried to visit Pyongyang to obtain the detainee's release. He organized an unofficial delegation of individuals well known to the North, including an advisor to President-elect Trump for a visit to Pyongyang. The group hoped the release could contribute to a beginning of a new relationship between Washington and Pyongyang. At the end, the North did not invite the group, against recommendations from their own missions in New York and Beijing.

Kim Jong-un has stabilized his regime against external pressure and sanctions. The food situation has improved, private markets work, more buildings go up, and the economy grows, albeit minimal. There are no open civil disturbances. Now he needs an international assurance of respect for his dynasty. This can only be achieved by diplomacy, not by nuclear weapons. What's your take?

Tong Kim is a Washington correspondent and columnist for The Korea Times. He is also a fellow at the Institute of Korean-American Studies. He can be contacted at tong.kim8@yahoo.com.
By Press Trust of India: (Eds: With update)

New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) A newborn baby, who was nearly buried alive after wrongly being declared dead by doctors at New Delhis Safdarjung Hospital, breathed his last today, an official said, even as the Union Health Ministry ordered a probe.

The one-day old baby was declared dead yesterday by the central government-run hospitals doctors and the still child was wrapped in a plastic bag in preparation for the burial.

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It was only after relatives decided to take one last look at the baby and the bag was opened that they noticed the newborns limbs twitching.

He was then immediately shifted to the neo-natal ICU, where it managed to survive for about 30 hours.

"The baby died today at 4.15 PM," Dr A K Rai, the medical superintendent at Safdarjung hospital, said.

The hospital has ordered an inquiry.

Meanwhile, a Union health ministry official said, "We have sought a report in the matter from the hospital.

The baby was delivered yesterday by 28-year-old Shanti Devi, a resident of Badarpur, around 5 AM.

Failing to find any movement or respiration, hospital staff declared the baby dead, sealed the body in a pack, labelled it and handed it over to the father for burial.

As the mothers condition was not stable, she remained in the hospital while the father and other family members took the body and went home to prepare for burial.

But when the fathers sister insisted on seeing the babys face for one last time, they opened the pack. To their shock and surprise, they found the baby breathing and moving its limbs.

Immediately they called the police and the baby was rushed to Apollo Hospital from where it was shifted to Safdarjung hospital.

"How can they be so irresponsible and declare a baby, who is alive, as dead? If we had not opened the sealed pack in time, my baby really would have died and we would never have come to know the truth. This is gross negligence on the part of the hospital and the guilty should be punished," the father, Rohit, said yesterday.

Dr Rai said the woman had delivered a 22-week-old premature baby. As per WHO guidelines, babies born before 22 weeks and weighing less than 500 gms are not considered as deliveries and generally do not survive.

The baby was motionless and did not cry or breathe after delivery.

A senior police official said that the complaint will be forwarded to Medical Council of India for fact finding enquiry and legal opinion will also sought to decide what action has to be action. PTI PLB SLB TDS VJ KIS

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By Manjeet Negi: In a major boost to indigenous defence production to become self-reliant in the defence sector, Lockheed Martin today inked an agreement with Tata Advanced Systems to produce F-16 fighter jets in India.

The F-16 Block 70 is ideally suited to meet the Indian Air Force's single-engine fighter needs and this unmatched US-Indian industry partnership directly supports India's initiative to develop private aerospace and defense manufacturing capacity in India.

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This F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defense contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter.

The announcement comes days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi travels to Washington for a first meeting with US President Donald Trump scheduled for June 26.

India and the United States have built a close defence relationship in recent years with Washington emerging as among the top three arms suppliers to India, along with Russia and Israel.

India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world, a joint statement issued by the two companies said.

"This unprecedented F-16 production partnership between the world's largest defense contractor and India's premier industrial house provides India the opportunity to produce, operate and export F-16 Block 70 aircraft, the newest and most advanced version of the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter," the statement said.

F-16 production in India also supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India, and positions Indian industry at the center of the most extensive fighter aircraft supply ecosystem in the world.

"Our partnership significantly strengthens the F-16 'Make in India' offer, creates and maintains numerous new job opportunities in India and the US, and brings the world's most combat-proven multi-role fighter aircraft to India, the statement said.

With more than 4,500 produced and approximately 3,200 operational aircraft worldwide being flown today by 26 countries, the F-16 remains the world's most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter ever produced. The F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most technologically advanced F-16 ever offered.

Also read:

Lockheed has Make in India plans for F-16 jets, Trump wants to take a 'fresh look'

Also watch:

Sukma attack: Meet the IAF bravehearts who flew the mortal remains of the CRPF jawans

--- ENDS ---
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia A Nova Scotia man is the latest Canadian to report complications with A Nova Scotia man is the latest Canadian to report complications with surgical abdominal mesh , and will likely join hundreds of other Canadian hernia surgery patients in a class action lawsuit against Ethicon, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, the makers of Physiomesh.

Eric Hagen, 86, along with many other Canadian hernia mesh patients claim that Ethicons Physiomesh is to blame for their chronic health and pain problems. Their lawsuit alleges that the surgical mesh had a design defect that causes the mesh to migrate, tear or contract while in the body. This type of abdominal mesh caused higher than average reoperation and recurrence rates in the patients that had surgery to implant the mesh product.Abdominal mesh Lawsuits have been filed before the Physiomesh recall in May, 2016. In fact, complaints were lodged with Health Canada soon after Ethicons Physiomesh was introduced in 2010. Hagen received the abdominal mesh as part of a hernia repair in 2012. "The surgeon, she told me that she used the mesh," Hagen told, because at the time, "this is a new thing."Physiomesh isnt the first abdominal mesh to have created serious problems and subsequently recalled. A $300 million Canadian class action lawsuit was launched in 2010 over the Kugel mesh, which allegedly caused complications, including bowel perforations. The Kugel Mesh Patch was also the new thing back in 1996. By the time it was first recalled in 2005, thousands of people had been seriously injured by the surgical mesh.Since 2000, 12 hernia mesh products have been recalled in Canadas market. Patients suffered from infections and perforations with three deaths and 185 reports of serious injury as a result of hernia mesh. A Canadian surgeon, Dr. John Morrison , said that in some hernia surgeries the mesh isnt even required but doctors use it anyway. Morrisons practice includes the removal of mesh products which have shifted inside of the patients body and often has pierced their organs.If you are scheduled for hernia surgery, ask your doctor which type of hernia you have, if surgical mesh needs to be used and if so, which kind will be used. Research the options first, particularly the types of mesh that have caused complications.Meanwhile, south of the border in Georgia, a new multidistrict litigation has been established for all federally-filed hernia mesh lawsuits involving Ethicon, Inc.s Physiomesh. In a Transfer Order dated June 2, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) found that centralization of the federal Physiomesh docket will serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses and promote the just and efficient conduct of this litigation. Case MDL No. 2782
Cut marks on the bones of the skeletons found in a medieval grave suggest a barbaric amputation was carried out.

Archaeologists who were digging in a medieval Portuguese necropolis unearthed three skeletons of young men who had their hands and feet cut off just before they died.

Most likely the consequence of judicial punishment, the gruesome amputation was inflicted on the men between the 13th and 15th centuries in the town of Estremoz, a city in southern Portugal, close to the Spanish border.

The remains, along with 94 other skeletons, were excavated in 2001 from a necropolis known as Rossio do Marques de Pombal.

"The three bodies were buried in graves located side by side and relegated to the south[ern] limits of the cemetery," Eugenia Cunha, an anthropologist at the University of Coimbra, told Live Science. [25 Grisly Archaeological Discoveries]

Hacked after death

The researchers were astonished to see that the skeletons were handless and footless. "Their hands and feet with stumps were placed under or near the bodies," Cunha said.

A reconstruction of the burial of three skeletons found in a medieval Portuguese necropolis. (Image credit: Teresa Fernandes, Eugenia Cunha, et al, International Journal of Paleopathology)

This is the first time that three individuals have been found buried in the same medieval necropolis with both their arms and lower legs severed just before death.

One individual was between ages 18 and 20, and another was between 25 and 35, the researchers found using carbon dating. It wasn't possible to determine the age of the third skeleton because it was incomplete.

The researchers, who published their findings online June 9 in the International Journal of Paleopathology, noted that the hands and feet were complete, with all of the bones attached as they were in life. This suggests that the amputation was intentional and occurred around the time of death, while the joints' soft tissues were still intact. In addition, if they had been postmortem amputations, the skeletons would have had multiple lesions, characteristic of the corpose being cut up or quartered after death as a form of public shaming, the researchers said.

Barbaric punishment

The types of cuts and their features suggest the limbs were cut as a form of punishment, the researchers said. In addition, the cuts are similar to those seen in England that involved male individuals who had either their feet, hands or legs amputated before death. [Medieval Torture's 10 Biggest Myths]

In the 14th and 15th centuries, thieves and counterfeiters were sentenced to have their hands cut off, the researchers noted.

"Yet severe body mutilations were relatively rare and only applied to individuals considered very dangerous," said Teresa Fernandes, a researcher in the Department of Biology at the University of Evora in Portugal.

"It is possible that the cutting of all limbs would represent a punishment only applied to very serious crimes," she added.

The three men may have been punished for political reasons.

"These skeletons may represent the testimony of vigorous application of justice as an act of royal sovereignty in a peripheral but militarily strategic region," the researchers said.

The fractures on the shinbone indicate the legs were cut with a strong blow, while the symmetry of the cut marks on the legs also suggests they were straight and parallel to each other when they were severed. Those marks and others led the researchers to conclude that the barbaric procedure was carried out with a sharp instrument, such as a sword or an ax. But in one case, it wasn't a single blow: Cuts on the incomplete skeleton revealed that the man suffered at least one failed attempt to cut off his legs.

Other than the lesions in the forearms and leg bones, the researchers did not find any evidence of trauma or injuries near the vital organs. Therefore, they could not confirm that the men were executed after the amputation.

Rather, the individuals probably bled to death. "It is quite likely that the amputation, without any kind of assistance, caused severe hemorrhagia that led to death," Cunha said.

She noted that the individuals did not survive long, as their bones showed no signs of healing.

Original article on Live Science.
The mummified head of Nebiri, an Egyptian dignitary who lived under the reign of the 18th Dynasty pharaoh Thutmoses III.

An international team of researchers has reconstructed the face and brain of a 3,500-year-old Egyptian mummy, revealing a unique "packing" embalming treatment.

Consisting of a well-preserved head and canopic jars containing internal organs, the remains belong to Nebiri, an Egyptian dignitary who lived under the reign of the 18th Dynasty pharaoh Thutmoses III (14791425 B.C.).

Nebiri's mummy became famous two years ago when he was diagnosed with the oldest ever case of chronic heart failure. [Photos: The Amazing Mummies of Peru and Egypt]

"He was between 45 [and] 60 years old when he died," Raffaella Bianucci, a bioanthropologist in the Legal Medicine Section at the University of Turin, told Live Science. "His tomb in the Valley of the Queens was plundered in antiquity and his body deliberately destroyed."

In 1904, Italian Egyptologist Ernesto Schiaparelli found what remained of the mummy, now housed at the Egyptian Museum in Turin.

Now, after his desecration, Nebiri has been brought back to life through modern forensics. Using a type of computed tomography and facial reconstruction techniques, the researchers produced an impressive facial approximation.

Nebiri appears as a man with a prominent nose, wide jaw, straight eyebrows and moderately thick lips.

Scientists have reconstructed the face of Nebiri, an Egyptian dignitary. (Image credit: Philippe Froesch)

"The reconstruction is nice, but this is not just art in my eyes," Philippe Charlier, a forensic pathologist and physical anthropologist at the University of Paris 5, told Live Science. "It is a serious forensic work based on the latest techniques of facial reconstruction and soft tissues over skull superposition. Beyond beauty, there is anatomical reality." [Image Gallery: The Faces of Egyptian Mummies Revealed]

Preliminary chemical data presented at the World Mummy Congress held in Rio de Janeiro in 2013 showed that the linen bandages had been treated with a complex mixture of an animal fat or plant oil, a balsam or aromatic plant, a coniferous resin and heated Pistacia resin. The recent CT scans revealed the bandages were carefully inserted almost everywhere in the head, in the nose, ears, eyes and mouth.

Researchers reconstructed the brain of Egyptian dignitary Nebiri. (Image credit: Philippe Froesch)

Nebiri's mummified head is the result of a "perfect packing," Bianucci, Charlier and colleagues explained in a paper published (opens in new tab) in the journal Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology.

Additional packing was introduced into the mouth to fill the cheeks.

"The meticulous packing created a barrier to protect the body from insect colonization. At the same time, it had a cosmetic purpose, allowing the facial features and neck to maintain their original lifelike appearance," Bianucci said.

Intriguingly, CT scans showed a tiny hole in a honeycomb-like bone structure known as the cribriform plate, which separates the nasal cavity from the brain. However, the brain was not taken out.

"Given the meticulous treatment of the head, it can be speculated that the perforation of the cribriform plate was not performed to extract the brain, but to insert the linen packing," the researchers wrote.

Indeed, fragments of linen strips can still be seen within the dehydrated cerebral tissue.

Using data from the CT scan, the researchers could perform a 3D brain surface reconstruction, which allowed them to reconstruct soft tissues destroyed or modified by post-mortem alterations.

"No anatomical anomalies were detected," Bianucci said.

The elaborate treatment of the head is like the embalming found in the nonroyal couple Yuya and Thuya, the researchers noted. DNA analysis conducted in 2010 identified the couple as the great-grandparents of Tutankhamun.

"We were able to add strength to the argument that Nebiri was [a] high elite," the paper's first author, Robert Loynes, at the KNH Center for Biomedical Egyptology at the University of Manchester in England, told Live Science.

Loynes noted the head is a rare example of a high-status funerary treatment of an early 18th Dynasty nonroyal individual.

"It's a unique finding that predates the developments seen in later 18th to 20th Dynasty kings, queens and kin," Loynes said.

Dario Piombino-Mascali, an anthropologist at the University of Messina in Sicily, who next month will begin a mummy field school in Sicily (giving students field experience investigating mummies), found it striking that the head alone could reveal so much about mummification.

"Using a combination of non-invasive techniques, the researchers have been able to find a particular treatment of the brain, which did not require its removal," Piombino-Mascali, who is not involved in the study, told Live Science.

At the crossroads of forensic anthropology and osteo-archaeology, the research opens new possibilities for the study of mummies.

"The brain reconstruction was produced from the Dicom file of the CT scan and, therefore, could be reproduced on any other mummy which had been CT scanned," Loynes said.

Original article on Live Science.
WASHINGTON  By some estimates, the known universe may contain as many as 2 trillion galaxies, with the average galaxy holding approximately 100 million stars and untold numbers of planets. But could there be multiple copies of the entire universe as we understand it?

The concept of a multiverse  worlds that invisibly coexist alongside us, perhaps representing versions of reality that are near-identical to our own  is a pervasive idea in sci-fi, and one that has intrigued generations of physicists as well as science-fiction creators and fans.

While scientists have yet to find any evidence that multiverses exist, there are a number of hypotheses that use the laws of physics to explore the possibility of multiple universes, sometimes challenging our understanding of reality itself in the process, Erin Macdonald, astrophysicist, engineer and self-proclaimed "massive sci-fi nerd," explained during a panel on Saturday (June 17) at Future Con, a festival that highlighted the intersection between science, technology and science fiction in Washington, D.C. [Top 5 Reasons We May Live in a Multiverse]

Our universe exists within the fabric of space-time  3D space combined with time, to create a 4D continuum, explained Macdonald. But scientists can't say for sure what space-time looks like, which means it might hold countless universes that are invisible to us, she said.

The simplest version of the multiverse concept is the so-called mirror universe, in which a single alternate universe closely parallels ours, but is also its opposite  such as the "Mirror, Mirror" episode of the original "Star Trek" television series, in which a landing party mistakenly beams up to a different version of the Enterprise, occupied by more brutal versions of their familiar crewmates.

Another perspective on the multiverse is the brane universe, which describes our universe as one membrane in a vast, possibly infinite stack of membrane universes, but with no connection or means to communicate between them, Macdonald said.

Erin Macdonald at the Future Con panel titled "Parallel and Multi-Universe Theory in Sci-Fi." (Image credit: M. Weisberger/Live Science)

Multiple universes might also exist within contained bubbles of space-time, a concept explored in the video game "Bioshock Infinite." By this reckoning, inhabitants of two universes could theoretically interact should their "bubbles" connect to each other directly, according to Macdonald.

Quantum universes appear more commonly in sci-fi, Macdonald said. This idea suggests that every decision a person makes spawns a new timeline, creating a new and self-contained universe that follows a different path. Science-fiction writers crafting time-travel stories frequently invoke the rules of quantum universes to explain how characters can travel to the past and not erase their own existence  their every choice births new universes entirely, leaving the universe that was their origin intact.

But perhaps the most disturbing premise of all is whether the universe we perceive as real is, in fact, a simulation of some kind, as in the movie "The Matrix."

"Would you want to know if you were a simulation, but had no control? Could we test if we were in a simulation if we were all just code?" Macdonald asked the audience. For now, plenty of questions remain unanswered  about multiple universes and the reality of our own, she said.

"None of these can be proven  but they're fun to think about," Macdonald said.

Original article on Live Science.
The Egyptian tomb-chapel of Nebamun, dating to about 1250 B.C., is on display at the British Museum. Notice the cat's stripes, which are reminiscent of a wildcat's markings.

Modern cat lovers can thank the farmers of ancient Anatolia in the Near East for domesticating their fluffy friends about 10,000 years ago, a new study finds.

Cat domestication likely began when these furry wildcats began hunting rodents that were feasting on grains harvested by Neolithic farmers. The farmers welcomed the sly, four-pawed hunters, and eventually started relying on them to keep vermin at bay.

This defining moment happened in what is now modern-day Turkey, and these friendly felines quickly spread across the Old World as cat lovers moved across to the Bosporus Strait to Europe, the researchers found. [See the Remains of Ancient Cats from the Ancient World]

However, it wasn't until the Middle Ages, after thousands of years of living alongside humans, that some cats (Felis silvestris) developed fur with patch-like patterns, and not until the 19th century that they were bred to have fancy coats, the researchers found.

"This suggests that for a very long time, cats have not been subject to strong selection through breeding, and that the present-day breeds, in particular the fancy breeds, are mostly a modern 'invention' from the 19th century," said study co-senior researcher Eva-Maria Geigl, a research director at the French National Center for Scientific Research.

Traveling cats

Archaeologists once thought that the Egyptians domesticated cats about 4,000 years ago, but that changed in 2004 when researchers reported on a 9,500-year-old cat and human burial in Cyprus, Live Science previously reported. Moreover, in 2013, another study suggested that cat domestication began 5,300 years ago in China.

The new study is the first to examine the DNA from a vast number of domesticated cats remains, ranging in age from 100 to 9,000 years ago, said Geigl, who is also head of a group at the Institute Jacques Monod, a biology research center in Paris.

Study lead researcher Claudio Ottoni, a paleogeneticist Leuven University in Belgium, examines a cat mummy at the National History Museum in London. The researchers were unable to analyze the DNA of this particular mummy because wrapped mummies cannot be sampled. Rather, they got samples from deteriorated mummies. (Image credit: Copyright Wim van Neer)

It's nearly impossible to tell the difference between domesticated cats and the five known subspecies of wildcat simply by looking at their skeletal remains. So, to get to the bottom of the cat domestication mystery, the researchers analyzed the DNA from the bones, teeth, skin and hair of more than 200 cats found at archaeological sites in the Near East, Africa and Europe.

"Our group had devised a new barcoding method that is very sensitive and efficient, and allowed us to analyze the many highly degraded samples," Geigl told Live Science in an email. (In barcoding methods, scientists use a short genetic stretch of DNA to identify specific species.)

The results revealed at least one and possibly two lineages of cats led to modern kitties. One lineage  Felis silvestris lybica, a subspecies of wildcat found in the Near East, including Anatolia  spread with humans into what is now the European countries of Bulgaria as early as 4400 B.C. and Romania as early as 3200 B.C., the researchers found.

"The cat, being a territorial animal, does not move a lot on its own," Geigl said. "The archaeological and historical records tell us that cats probably were translocated mostly through ships, since the spread was relatively fast."

In contrast, the Egyptians domesticated a lineage of African cats, including some they mummified. This Egyptian lineage spread across the Mediterranean along trade routes during the first millennium B.C., likely as sailors took cats aboard to hunt vermin, the researchers found.

Once these boats docked, these Egyptian felines pitter-pattered off, and mated with local cats, both tame and wild, giving rise to hybrid kitties. For instance, Egyptian cat remains were found at the Viking trading port of Ralswiek on the Baltic Sea in the seventh century A.D., Geigl said. [Images: Ancient Egyptian Kittens]

"It's still unclear, however, whether the Egyptian domestic cat descends from cats imported from the Near East or whether a separate, second domestication took place in Egypt," study lead researcher Claudio Ottoni, a paleogeneticist Leuven University in Belgium, said in a statement. "Further research will have to show."

Fancy coats

Most ancient cats had stripes like their wild ancestors, according to DNA analyses of a single point mutation (the changing of one DNA "letter") in their genes, the researchers found. Likewise, Egyptian murals also depict striped cats, the researchers said.

"Interestingly, the Egyptian iconography depicts an evolution of the relationship between cats and humans from the third to the second half of the second millennium B.C.," Geigl said. "The cats in the representations start off as a wild, fierce animal killing the snake that threatened the sun god Ra; later it is depicted as an animal that hunts birds in the marshes together with men, and then it is depicted under the chair of noble people."

But in the Middle Ages, cats with "blotched," or patched coat patterns, became more prevalent, the researchers found.

"[We] saw that the point mutation indicative of the blotched pattern arose only after the 13th century in the Middle East, and became frequent in the following centuries," Geigl said. "This means that the cat became a companion of humans without changing much. For a long time, it was a very useful animal that eliminated pests and venomous animals and did that naturally, nobody had to tell them or had to breed them in order to achieve this result. It became a pet probably much later."

The study was published online today (June 19) in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution (opens in new tab).

Original article on Live Science.
To ease low back pain, you may want try a downward dog: A new study suggests that doing yoga may be as effective as physical therapy for reducing low back pain.

The study looked at a specific yoga routine designed by experts. Some yoga poses could be harmful to the back.

About 10 percent of U.S. adults have chronic low back pain, according to the study, published today (June 19) in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine. And around 80 percent of U.S. adults will experience low back pain at some point in their lives, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Low back pain can have a large effect on people's lives: It's a leading reason why people miss work, the NIH says. In addition, low back pain appears to take a larger toll on people of racial and ethnic minority groups and on poorer people, according to the study. [5 Surprising Facts About Pain]

The most common nondrug treatment for low back pain is physical therapy, which involves individually tailored routines of stretching and strengthening exercises, according to the study. But many patients report that they aren't satisfied with the treatments that health care providers recommend.

In the new study, the researchers at Boston Medical Center wanted to see how yoga stacked up to physical therapy as a treatment for low back pain. Several meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials have found that yoga can be effective for easing low back pain, but yoga had never been directly compared to physical therapy.

More than 300 people with low back pain from low-income, racially diverse neighborhoods were included in the study. The study subjects had all experienced low back pain for at least three months, and in the previous week, had rated their pain at least a 4 on a scale of 0 to 10. In addition, all the people in the study had "nonspecific" low back pain, meaning that it wasn't due to a specific cause, such as a pinched nerve.

The researchers randomly assigned the people in the study to the yoga group, the physical therapy group or the control group. Over a 12-week period, the people in the yoga group attended weekly, 75-minute yoga classes, while those in the physical therapy group went to hour-long physical therapy sessions 15 times. In the control group, patients were given educational materials about how to cope with low back pain, but did not attend any classes.

The researchers noted that the yoga group followed a routine that was devised using input from yoga experts and previous studies looking at yoga and back pain. In other words, it was a specialized type of yoga class. There are yoga poses that could injure the back, studies have shown.

At the end of the 12-week period, the researchers found that the yoga classes were as effective as physical therapy in reducing pain, improving function and lowering people's use of pain medications. For example, yoga patients reported, on average, a 2.1-point decrease in pain on the pain scale, and physical therapy patients reported a 2.6-point decrease. The people in the control group reported a 1.3-point decrease on the pain scale, on average.

In addition, the improvements were maintained in the people who continued with either yoga or physical therapy for a year following the study. [Mind Games: 7 Reasons You Should Meditate]

One limitation of the research was that less than half of the people in the study attended at least three-quarters of the assigned yoga or physical therapy sessions. In an editorial published alongside the study in the same journal, Dr. Douglas Chang, an orthopedic surgeon at the University of California, San Diego, and Dr. Stefan Kertesz, an associate professor of preventive medicine at the University of Alabama School of Medicine, said that future studies should investigate why so many of the participants failed to attend all the sessions.

In addition, the authors of the editorial noted that the improvements that the yoga and physical therapy patients reported were small, and only half of the yoga patients and one-third of the physical therapy patients reported improvements.

The study was funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is a part of the National Institutes of Health.

Originally published on Live Science.
By Press Trust of India: New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) Senior IPS officer Rajnish Rai, who has lodged a complaint about an alleged fake encounter in Assam, may be examined by Union Home Ministry officials, who have been asked to carry out an internal probe into the matter.

Official sources today said that all circumstances and merit of his complaint are being looked into and the officer may be quizzed.

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In case, the complaint is found to be motivated or false, then a counter case can also be registered against those involved in it, they said.

Rai, Inspector General of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), had sent a report to the paramilitary forces headquarters and others claiming that two men had been killed in the alleged staged encounter in March in Assams Chirang district.

Following the complaint, the officer, who was then in charge of the Northeast sector of the force, has been transferred to Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh.

Former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police Ashok Prasad is likely to travel to Assam to look into the case.

Prasad, currently a technical advisor in the Union home ministry, will inquire whether or not the conduct of the officer was within the parameters of the rules, whether he has conducted a "discreet" inquiry on his own and whether or not he exceeded his jurisdiction by preparing the report, which was then shared with higher ups here.

Rai, in his report, had alleged that the encounter carried by a joint squad of security forces in Assam in March was fake and it killed two persons in cold blood claiming they were NDFB ((Songbijit) rebels.

Rai, a 1992-batch IPS officer of Gujarat cadre, said he had conducted a "discreet" inquiry on his own chronicling how a team of the Assam Police, the Army, the CRPF, its jungle warfare unit CoBRA and the border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) conducted the encounter on March 29-30 in Simlaguri area of Chirang district and killed what they called were two insurgents of the banned group NDFB (S). PTI AKV SKL KIS

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VoxelCloud, a startup based out of Los Angeles and with a presence in Suzhou and Shanghai, China, has developed a suite of artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies to assist doctors in interpreting medical images. The technology provides fully automated medical imaging analysis, and can be used with various imaging techniques, such as computed tomography or digital color imaging of the retina. At present, the system has been developed for use in diagnosing lung cancer, retinal diseases, and coronary heart disease.

The platform is designed to complement and assist a clinician in their decision-making process. The company is currently in the process of expanding the scope of its services, using some recently acquired funding. VoxelCloud has worked with a variety of healthcare institutions in China and the US to trial the technology.

Medgadget had the opportunity to ask Xiaowei Ding, CEO of VoxelCloud, some questions about the technology.

Conn Hastings, Medgadget: Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about how you got into this area.

Xiaowei Ding, VoxelCloud: Im the co-founder and CEO of VoxelCloud. I started VoxelCloud in 2015 in Los Angeles. Actually, VoxelCloud is an extension of my research program, which I started with my PhD research.

After I finished my bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and a PhD in Computer Science from UCLA in 2015, I decided to apply my background in computer science to the medical industry. In fact, during my PhD research in the computer science lab at UCLA, I had explored the possibilities that medicine could benefit from the development of computer sciences. Later on, I worked at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center as a research assistant in the Biomedical Imaging Research Institute and the Artificial Intelligence in Medicine Program.

During my research, I found that before 2013, AI in medical research programs has been limited by the amount of available data, and there were not enough good machine-learning algorithms to apply those clinical data. I want to solve this problem.

So, after one year of investigation, I co-founded VoxelCloud, a startup that aims at providing medical image analysis and diagnosis assistance for clinical practices. With artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies, we can teach machines to understand medical data and boost a doctors efficiency and diagnostic confidence.

Medgadget: Put simply, how does the technology work? What types of imaging does the system work with?

Xiaowei Ding: Intuitively, we present our algorithms with a vast amount of medical data and the corresponding diagnosis. During the training process, we let the model learn the rules to arrive at such insights from the original data.

In clinical practice, this information will assist doctors to make informed clinical decisions more efficiently. So far, we have applied this methodology to x-ray computed tomography and fundus photography images, and there is no theoretical limitation to where our technology can be applied.

Medgadget: What problem does the system solve? Is it currently difficult to interpret these images accurately?

Xiaowei Ding: Interpreting medical images is a highly specialized profession that requires the practitioners to undergo many years of extensive training. The supply of highly trained doctors is being outpaced by the ever-growing demand for image interpretation. When under time pressures, providing an accurate diagnosis may become an issue for many human readers.

Our technology aims to help doctors interpret medical images more efficiently and make more informed clinical decisions through our data-driven, algorithmic insights. In turn, we are also making accurate diagnosis more accessible to a greater audience.

Medgadget: Please tell us a little about your plans to expand the scope of the services VoxelCloud offers.

Xiaowei Ding: Our service will include at least three aspects. First, we will provide a service directly to healthcare providers (such as hospitals, medical centers, etc.) through clinical workflow integrated cloud-computing solutions. Second, we will partner with existing hardware and software vendors to provide an AI service. Third, we will build a platform to enable third party medical developers to develop their own applications much more easily through our medical knowledge graph API. With this API, developers could work more efficiently because we have developed the basic algorithms and collected a massive amount of anonymized training data from scratch. Our medical image knowledge graph will be offered though this API. Further extension of our project will leverage heterogeneous data sources in synergy with the existing imaging data.

Medgadget: How and where is the system used at the moment? Have clinicians found it helpful?

Xiaowei Ding: We are working side by side with the leading medical institutions in China to actively develop and evaluate our lung cancer screening and eye disease diagnosis products. We have received very positive feedback from the physicians we are working with.

The clinicians have found that our products can boost workflow efficiency and have the potential to bring more accurate, imaging-based disease screening and diagnosis through our AI and cloud-computing platform.

Medgadget: What are the limits of AI for these types of applications? Do you ever see the system being a replacement for a clinician, or always an assistive technology?

Xiaowei Ding: The performance of an AI system is only as good as the data it has seen. Collecting and utilizing a large amount of high-quality medical data is a big challenge and will be a challenge in the near term, because there are patient privacy concerns and a lack of digitized records in many parts of the world.

This also means, that in many cases, the ability of an AI system in medicine can be limited to a narrow scope. To make a well-informed diagnosis, a doctor will have to consider all contexts of the patients situation. Therefore, we dont foresee AI systems to be a replacement for a clinician, but will be a very reliable aid to clinicians, because they allow clinicians to delegate the repetitive, manual tasks to the machines and focus their precious time on what they do best, which is gathering all necessary information and deciding on the best solution for the patient.

Link: VoxelCloud
By India Today Web Desk: Farhan Akhtar and Shraddha Kapoor's relationship may be getting stronger by the day, if the grapevine is to be believed, but the same couldn't be said of the Dil Dhadakne Do actor's equation with Shakti Kapoor. Rumours of friction between the two surfaced a few months ago, when Shraddha's father reportedly dragged her back home when she packed her bags and moved in with Farhan. Although all parties involved refuted the reports, gossip mongers insisted it was true.

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But now, it looks like Farhan has mended fences with Shakti, and even had Father's Day wishes for the senior actor. It started with Farhan's short film featuring Vidya Balan and her father PR Balan on Father's Day, which received applause from B-Towners. Shraddha also was all praise for the film and said that her father was just like Vidya's, always supportive of her endeavours. Farhan thanked her and asked her to convey his Father's Day wishes to Shakti.

A must watch this Father's Day! So moved, inspired, empowered & filled with love after watching this. He is just like my dad ????? https://t.co/9puBYcjjqb- Shraddha (@ShraddhaKapoor) June 18, 2017

.@ShraddhaKapoor please wish him a #HappyFathersDay from all at @MardOfficial and thank you for sharing our video.. big hug ??? https://t.co/wysSVo4jvk- Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) June 18, 2017

On the work front, Farhan will be seen next in Lucknow Central, which will release on September 15, while Shraddha is gearing up for the release of Haseena Parkar, which will hit theatres on August 18.

ALSO READ: Shraddha moves in with Farhan, daaku daddy Shakti forces her to leave?

ALSO READ: Are things getting serious between Shraddha Kapoor and Farhan Akhtar?

ALSO WATCH: Aditya Roy Kapur spills OK Jaanu co-star Shraddha Kapoor's secrets

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by Adam Gerhart , Op-Ed Contributor, June 18, 2017

Where do you start? With partner meetings and parties, award shows and more than 600 speakers across 18 stages, its easy to get caught up in the swirl of choices on how to spend your week.

This year, its time to break a few traditions. Flip partner lunches on their head and meet with a start-up or two instead. Trade out one of your three breakfast meetings for insights from an Inside the Jury Room judges panel.

And, as much as we all love movie stars, scour the agendas on the secondary stages, where youll find some of the industrys most inspiring and provocative topics.

Yet, even with this road map in your back pocket, we can tighten the focus even more to align with the five big trends that might just help you earn a trip to the Cannes Lions award stage next year.

Break the code

The Festival is awash in content about technology. With 20+ sessions on the topic, you could spend the whole week learning about little else. So when choosing, gravitate toward those that make programmers heroes: Apps. Games. Mobile.

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Technology growth and interest is migrating from platforms and hardware to software to code. Need proof? Fast Company reports one-third of the top jobs in the U.S. are now computer programming related. Meet those people.

Consumers craving original idea-driven solutions are forcing this shift. Weve already seen a peek at its power with last years deceptively simple Vodafone app that addressed domestic abuse in Turkey. So, dont shy away from a little code. Better understanding its power can make your brand more powerful.

Find unusual partners to help tackle your challenges.

Hear me now

Start listening, and unlock the power of audio. It is the last bastion of the consumer experience thats yet to near its full potential.

Ironically, although the Festival doesnt have an audio category, its program is full of sessions that speak to its growing influence. According to Google, 41% of U.S. teens use voice search daily and 60.5 million Americans (20%) will talk to a virtual assistant at least once a month (eMarketer).

Were moving way beyond the draw of music. Its podcasts and audio branding, voice shopping and voice search. Yes, the sheer immersive wonder of virtual and augmented reality still is in growth mode too, but its audio that is showing signs of long-term impact for brands.

Perhaps its because were so overloaded with visual content on every screen and through social media, our senses are screaming. Audios simplicity transports us to different places quickly and holistically. Its promise is in its functionality, in its storytelling and user experience. So seek out sessions that show you how to engage your consumers ears.

Humans vs. machines

The industrys infatuation with data appears to be in retrograde at the festival. IBM tells us that 90% of the worlds data has been created in the last two years alone. Although overwhelming, we can all now see its power we need to accept its limitations. (For a real-world reminder, pick up the book Shattered about how data analytics in a vacuum failed the Clinton campaign.)

With the AI market growing from $8B in 2016 to $47B in 2020 (IDC), there is a growing tension between humans and machines. Some predict that latter will be smarter than us within the next 20 to 30 years. But is smarter better? And, how far can we trust datas next big wave to solve our brands problems before bringing intuition and emotion into the equation?

Look for sessions that speak to how data can enhance a larger idea  like storytelling or the use of humor  or how to reconcile our left and right brain marketing needs. In 2016, for example, ING Bank used data to analyze Rembrandts works and recreate a masterpiece. Why? Wouldnt we have learned more by applying that data to further human interest, creating a new Picasso painting in Rembrandts style that shows the DNA of an artists mind?

Dont get me wrong, I love the idea  but lets not let data cause us to lose sight or miss a more compelling opportunity.

Hold up a mirror

Heres one place where the Festival of Creativity is far ahead of its Cannes counterpart. Cannes Film Festival jurist Jessica Chastain recently made headlines by calling the lack of women represented in its work disturbing. We head into a week where our festival has more than doubled its number of women judges to 43%.

The same holds true for social empowerment. After last years festival, the six top agency holding companies formed the Common Ground UN initiative and established sustainable development goals  from climate change to health to gender diversity.

It will be exciting to see what happens because of it. Our hope is that its part of a bigger trend of inclusiveness and social empowerment celebrated at award ceremonies.

This year, you have access to talks on everything from how creativity can change the world to how to attract a diverse talent pool. Seek out ways to continually scrub insensitivity out of a brands message at every turn. Less Nivea/White is Purity more of Ben & Jerrys same scoop campaign to fight Australias ban on same sex marriage.

The fifth P

Kellogg Schools Phil Kotler, considered the father of modern marketing, has added a fifth P to the four Ps of Marketing  Purpose  for good reason.

Authenticity and brand purpose go hand in hand with how to create a lasting bond between consumer and brand. Whether its Doves connection to womens self-esteem or Swedish Tourisms irreverent Talk to a Swede, we need to continue to look for inspired, non-contrived ways to bring a brands value to life. Theres now always a higher order beyond product benefit.

Unilever has quantified it with research that says its sustainable development brands grew 50% faster and accounted for 60% of the companys growth in 2016. It defines those brands as ones with a strong social or environmental purpose.

As you navigate your week at Cannes, think about your consumers growing expectations of what your brand can do for them. Look for ways that software, audio, data, diversity, and brand purpose can inspire you to create your own Lions-worthy work next year.
by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, June 19, 2017

For all the attention brands shower on content marketing as the best way to win peoples attention, theres remarkably little research on how much impact it has. But a new study from Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School provides plenty of vindication: The more engaged people feel in an experience, the more likely they are to do it again. And perhaps more to the point, they are also more favorably disposed to marketing messages they see there.

As the old idea of marketing, a paid 30-second ad meant to persuade people about the benefits of a product, have faded, this idea of experiential marketing has taken hold, with the belief that rather than just persuading, you have got to engage consumers in an experience that is meaningful, says Bobby J. Calder, a professor of marketing at the Kellogg School, and lead author of the research. And the media side of this is that the content itself, such as a musical performance or a newspaper, is a form of engagement. We know that people want to be engaged, and are inherently drawn to stories.

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The surprise, he tells Marketing Daily, is that engagement is a better metric than the traditional measure of satisfaction.

The researchers first identified five different ways people can feel engaged: Interacting with others, feeling transported, discovering something new to them, affirming an identity or somehow contributing to society. They then measured them in three different experiments.

In the first, they tracked 500 Chicago Jazz Festival attendees six weeks after the event, asking them to answer questions about all five dimensions of engagement. Not so surprisingly, the more engaged attendees felt, the more apt they were to say they would attend the next year festival, or even head to another arts event.

Second, researchers asked 11,000 newspaper readers to answer questions about engagement, including I bring up things Ive read in this paper in conversations with others. As engagement levels rose, so did time spent reading, the variety of sections read, and the thoroughness of reading.

And finally, the team surveyed 150 adults in Mexico who viewed ads embedded in either a 10-minute soap opera segment or a home-improvement show. The more engaged the viewer was with the show, the more he or she liked the ads it included. As logical as that seems, the researchers say its the first study to prove a positive effect of engagement on TV commercials.

Calder says that puts brands like Red Bull, often called one of the best content marketers out there for its adrenaline-fueled events and media offerings, way ahead. But he rejects the idea that some brands are just inherently more engaging.

There are passion points everywhere, and you can make an experience of almost anything, even very pedestrian activities. Look at cookingwhether its focusing on the farm-to-table movement or finding the next successor to kale, people want to be more engaged about food, he says. All it takes is engaging people in something that makes part of their life more meaningful.
by Christy Cross , Op-Ed Contributor, June 16, 2017

For most in the ad and marketing industry, attending the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is on the career bucket list.

Its been a goal of mine ever since I started in the ad agency business as a new business intern. Back then, Cannes was an event seemingly reserved for creatives and agency C-suite executives, so I didnt know if my path in business development would ever take me to the Croisette.

But today, we all know Cannes is just as much about networking and deal making as it has about celebrating creativity. So when given the incredible opportunity to make the trip last year, I couldnt pass it up.

While there are hundreds of opportunities to learn and connect during the weeklong Festival, it can be quite overwhelming. So for anyone making their inaugural trip, here are my tips to make the most of your Cannes experience:

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Prioritize in advance, but dont expect to get it all in your first year.

Yes, you will make a schedule, filling up your days with client meetings, partnership dinners, keynote addresses, and maybe a few or several parties. But its smart to decide in advance what your goals are and what you really value, so you can avoid getting overwhelmed by adding to your already booked schedule. Remember -- theres always next year.

Industry blasphemy: leave at least 3-4 hours open on your calendar every day.

In trying to maximize your trip, you will inevitably feel the need to book every minute of every day. Dont. The beauty of Cannes (besides the obvious), is that everyone in the industry is in a very concentrated place. Take my advice and leave enough open windows in your schedule to say yes to a few spontaneous invites. Those new friends, or clients, you meet at the Majestic Hotel pool may prove just as invaluable as what you heard that afternoon at the Palais.

Buy the badge and pick it up your first day.

Surprisingly, one of the things most debated about Cannes is if its worth purchasing a Festival badge. While it may not be completely necessary for everyone, if you are with an agency, buy one. And pick it up on Day One. It is tempting to bypass purchasing the badge, thinking you can get a download from press reports or colleagues. But realize, even outside the Palais, there are events which require a badge, and if someone (eh hem, like a client or prospect) invites you to go, you dont want to say no.

Balance your time inside the Palais and on the Croisette.

Spend some time seeing the creative; its the heart of Cannes. There has been a massive shift over the past few years from a focus on creative to a focus on ad tech. This is even evident inside the Palais, with more sessions focused on innovation and data. Outside, you will find every ad tech player in the space clamoring for your time and attention. From Facebook Beach, to Snapchats pop up space, and all the branded cabanas and yachts in between, mingling on the Croisette is where you should spend much of your time.

Meet as many people as you can and start a conversation. Have an opinion, share and debate your ideas, and youll be surprised what ensues.

Learn un peu de francais.

Learning French is not a necessity, (given everything is printed and spoken in English), but before my next Cannes trip, I plan to learn a few key phrases. Its a courtesy, and its fun. We are all global ambassadors. And whats that sayingwhen in Rome, or quand a Cannes

The Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity is a wonderful, exciting and valuable experience. It is the event for our industry. It is a great place to be inspired, make connections, and to remind yourself why you got into this business in the first place. Our industry is an incredibly diverse, talented group of people with a shared passion for shaping the future with their craft. And nowhere does that feel more evident and more of a worldwide experience than during this sunny, rose-infused, hectic week in the South of France.
Afar, Monday, June 19, 2017 7:41 AM

While leisure travel to Cuba was never made fully legal under Pres. Obamas policy, Pres. Trumps newly announced policy calls for the heightening of restrictions on American travel and trade in Cuba. The directive will enforce strict limitations on U.S. citizens traveling to the island, imposing regulations that prohibit self-led, individual ventures categorized as people-to-people travel.

Read the whole story at Afar 
Marketing Interactive, Monday, June 19, 2017 8:09 AM

Looking to appeal to the younger Chinese consumers, Coca-Cola has revamped its labels to add "language codes" used by the demographic. The effort, dubbed "code bottle," puts different visual emoticons and phrases used in China on the bottles. According to Shelly Lin, marketing director for Coca-Cola China, the redesign is a way to reach younger consumers using their language of connection.



Read the whole story at Marketing Interactive 
by Steven Rosenbaum , Featured Contributor, June 19, 2017

Sitting in a dark theater in Vancouver, I found the excitement palpable. There were robots. Spry, agile, seemingly conscious.

Marc Raibert of Boston Dynamic takes SpotMini for a walk at TED. Photo Credit: Steven Rosenbaum (@MagnifyMedia)

After Marc Raiberts TED talk, I found myself drawn to a crowd gathering outside the theater. I wanted a selfie. But not with Raibert. I wanted a selfie with SpotMini, an electronic, quadruped robot that looks like a cross between a large dog and a small giraffe. He was cute, almost cuddly. And, with just a dash of sci-fi imagination, terrifying.

At that moment, Google-owned Boston Dynamics, the robot factory responsible for BigDog, Atlas, Spot and SpotMini. But already the rumors were swirling: Google wanted out.

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Now we know that theres been a deal done. And Raibert and his stable of robots are now owned by SoftBank, the Japanese technology conglomerate. The sale price isnt being disclosed, but as the purchase price wasnt made public, we can only guess that the deal wasnt a big win for Google. Back in 2013 when Google purchased Raiberts Robot co, it was already a bit wary of the Boston Dynamics business, cautioning that while it would honor the latters existing Department of Defense existing contract, it didnt want to become a military contractor.

So Google knows what it doesnt want to be. But dont count Google out of the hardware business; far from it.

Today, there is a pitched battle being fought among Amazon Alexa, Apple HomePod, and Google Home. Each company with its own device, its own ecosystem, and its own critically important endgame.

The so-called smart speakers are always listening for their wake word, waiting to play a song or provide some other sort of e-commerce function. Think of them as the new front door to the emerging electronic economy.

So, I thought it might make sense to review the three platforms and make some educated guesses about the future of the emerging home voice tech space.

Amazon was first, with its Alexa assistant in the Echo, Dot and Tap. But by allowing third-party device makers to have access, it has gotten an early foothold that its building upon.

Then Google Home came along with strong voice-recognition solutions but missing some of the interconnectability that has given Alexa an edge.

Now Apple has unveiled HomePod. Its got great sound, and a stylish look but the jury is out until theres an actual demo unit we can get our hands on.

But once youve allowed an always aware robot into your home, what will that artificial intelligent device allow you to do? It turns out it depends which network youre connected to. And, it also depends how much your home is tied to the IoT world of connected devices. Thats where the magic starts.

Alexa ties to your Amazon Prime account, which you access to get all the associated music, movies, and apps, many of which come from outside the Amazon network of owned and operated services. So you can hail an Uber, for example. And Alexa is surprisingly open in terms of smart-home devices, and easy to set up.

Google Home links into Googles suite of apps, including Google Play. And ties to Nest appliances so you can set the temperature in your house with a voice command. Google lists partnerships with Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, and Philips in the IoT space  for now. The Home also supports Chromecast so you can ask it to bring up Netflix on your TV, which is pretty cool.

Apple HomePod is  for now  focused on Apple Music. And while its not yet released, its scheduled to come out for Christmas 2017. If you have a lot of HomeKit devices, HomePod will act as a hub.

But one thing is very clear: Home automation and audio-enabled AI are the new front lines in the war to own the consumer. Whats unfortunate is that Apple, Alexa, and Google all have distinct strengths and weaknesses. And its shaping up to be a winner-take-all battle.

So, whats next?

In my home, weve been Alexa users for more than a year. Turning on and off lights, changing internet radio stations, changing the volume. But weve never used Alexa to buy anything from Amazon, which is clearly the end game win for the Amazon ecosystem. Dont get me wrong, we buy plenty from Amazon Prime, but we use a desktop computer and often comparison shop before we place an order. Thats a behavior Amazon would like to change.

Thats why Dash Wand might be the sleeper hit of the summer for IoT.

The Amazon Dash Wand is a handheld barcode scanner that integrates with Alexa. Just press the button and speak or scan a barcode. The device is water resistant and magnetic.

If I can try, for a moment, to get inside the head of Jeff Bezos, what he and the Amazon team are thinking may be this: We dont know how people want to integrate ordering of household staples into their lives so were giving them lots of options, and well see what consumers want. For that reason, the nifty Dash Wand is $20, with a $20 credit to your Prime account. So its essentially free. Thats pretty darn smart.

Two cautionary points here. First, the reviews of Dash Wand on Amazon arent great  lots of folks having challenges getting it set up, and its now listed as sold out so maybe theres some new software on the way. Amazon has had early product challenges, but mostly seems to work through them so maybe hold off on buying Dash Wand until 2.0 comes out.

Secondly, if you want to know just how important first-mover advantage is in the emerging home voice space, heres what I learned. I tried to add a Google Home to my Alexa environment. I didnt need them to interact, just live in peace and harmony. No such luck. Two home voice robots is one too many. Confusing, hard to keep sorted which one does what and, frankly, not worth the headache. So for now, Google Home is back in its box.
by Ray Schultz , June 19, 2017

Campaign Monitor, the Australia-based technology company, has had a management shakeup: CEO Alex Bard has resigned to join a venture capital firm, and will be replaced in the short term by Board Chairman Adam Berger, according to press reports appearing in Australia over the weekend.

After three amazing years working at Campaign Monitor, Ive decided to step down as CEO to begin a new career chapter in venture capital, said Bard in an email, according to Financial Insider.

I will lead the transition through the end of the fiscal year  June 30  to ensure continued momentum. With over two million customers at more than 200,000 businesses, Campaign Monitor is well positioned for continued growth, and Im confident the companys best days are ahead, he continued, according to Business Insider Australia.

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This has been accompanied by recent management changes, the reports add: Board members Dave Greiner and Ben Richardson, who founded the company in 2004have stepped back from operational duties, citing a desire to spend time with their families.

"As parents with young kids, they're taking the time they didn't have when building Campaign Monitor over the past decade to spend more time with their family," a spokesperson said in statement, according to Business Insider Australia.

Bard added that Adam Berger, a seasoned CEO with success in building and scaling companies has stepped in as board chairman and will assume CEO duties on an interim basis, Business Insider Australia continued.

Allie Cefalo, the San Francisco-based head of communications, left the company in April, Business Insider Australia added.

Financial Review described Campaign Monitor as a $600 million email marketing company.

MediaPost sent an inquiry to Campaign Monitor early Monday morning.

Bard, who joined the company in 2014, worked primarily out of the firms San Francisco office. He did not disclose which VC firm he is joining.

Earlier this year, Bard told Startup Daily, I was incredibly excited about our greater purpose, and our greater purpose is to help businesses growfor me, these businesses all over the world are the global economic growth engine, so if we can be on the growth side, and have a meaningful impact, I feel were creating positivity in the world.

Startup Daily added, With around 250 employees now spread across its Sydney, San Francisco, and London offices, roughly 40 percent of the companys customers are based in North America, 40 percent in Europe, and the rest around Asia-Pacific.

Bard previously worked for Salesforce. When leaving that firm to join Campaign Monitor, he told Forbes that he was tempted by the VC route, but wanted to run a company again.

Business Insider Australia reported that Bard was a former executive vice president at Salesforce after his own startup Assistly, which was bought out by the cloud giant in 2011. Hes also involved with multiple startups at a board and advisory level, including New Zealand accounting software provider Xero and electronic signature firm DocuSign.
by Sara Guaglione , June 19, 2017

The Los Angeles Times is offering a round of buyouts in an effort to meet a challenging year for the newspaper and the news industry, according to a memo from editor and publisher Davan Maharaj, obtained by Poynter.

We are weathering the challenges better than most, because of our dedicated staff and several initiatives that have helped our business. However, we need to address the current economic realities as we work to secure our future, Maharaj wrote.

The buyout is being offered to the more experienced staffers at the LA Times, specifically non-union employees who have worked at the company for 15 years or more and are not in the manufacturing, distribution or operations departments.

It will be at the discretion of Los Angeles Times Communications, LLC whether to accept or decline applications, Maharaj added in the memo.

In 2015, a previous round of buyouts saw more than 80 reporters and editors leaving the newspaper, affecting the metro, national and international desks, as well as sports, obits, food, education and business beats and the editorial page.

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Some may rememberLos Angeles Magazine's scathing profile of the newspaper published in the magazines December 2016 issue, called Whats the Matter with the L.A. Times?

The story, written by contributing writer Ed Leibowitz, primarily blamed Maharaj for the papers troubles, portraying him as inexperienced and disrespectful. He also suggested seasoned journalists have left for lesser publications to escape a hostile newsroom environment.

LA Times editors Larry Ingrassia and Marc Duvoisin responded to Los Angeles Magazines profile at the time, calling the piece misguided and unfair. Leibowitz, in turn, defended the story in a response published in January.

Maharaj gave a brief statement to Los Angeles Magazine, saying he had to make difficult decisions in his five years at the helm, and that running a newspaper isnt a popularity contest."

The daily Los Angeles Timesis owned by Tronc, formerly known as Tribune Publishing.

Separately, Emma Carmichael, the editor-in-chief of Jezebel, the female-focused site formerly owned by Gawker Media but now by Univision Communications, announced Friday she's stepping down next month.

"This has been the hardest decision of my professional life, but its one I feel clear-headed about  Im simply a little burnt out and ready to take a break from running a Web site," she wrote in a memo to staff. "Im so proud of the work that weve done together in my three years here."

Carmichael, who took on the role of top editor in 2014, will remain as consulting editor ofthrough the end of September.
by Larissa Faw , June 19, 2017

CANNES, FRANCE  Humans want to believe the machines. Google Maps has sometimes directed drivers into mishaps, like the bus driver that couldnt quite clear the underpass the GPS app sent him toward.

Did the driver give up his free will? Was Google ethically complicit? If Google directed you to drive into a pond, would you do it?

Havas's Jason Jercinovic joined Sanofi's Astrid Boutaud and Venerable Tenzin Priyardashi of the Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformative Values, MIT to discuss the role of creative ethics as its relates to cognitive intelligence at a Cannes session today.

"If companies are [establishing ethics] just to be compliant, they will always find loopholes," says Priyardashi. "There has to be a different framework than the legal framework in addition to the well-being of consumers."

Advertisers are at the forefront of this issue. In recent years, AI and cognitive intelligence have unlocked the power of brands to engage with people in unprecedented ways. The panelists agreed it is mostly acceptable to use data and insight to drive personalized advertising.

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"The benefits of AI is no news to marketers with personalization and messaging but there has been a huge quantum leap in being more relevant to consumers, particularly in healthcare," says Boutaud. "Increased data with AI will bring help to sort and analyze in getting the right answers to the right topics. It will help with the diagnoses of patients. Human input with the combination of AI can be very powerful.

As technology helps to make consumers lives easier, panelists recommend radical transparency that reveals to people what a specific technology is and what they get out of it. And marketers are ethically obligated to make it easy to opt-out and in.

Still, there are unanswered questions. "How much bias data is driving the algorithm?" asks Priyardashi. "A layperson doesn't have insight into how an algorithm works. When we talk about ethical framework, we should not give the machines the ability to overwrite themselves, he says. "We need to have a human in the loop if you want to work as a precaution measure."

MIT Labs recently investigated how people make decisions in completely automatous ways. "There is this disposition when it comes to complex decision making, where we want others to do so," says Priyardashi.

As part of the MIT research, the owner of an autonomous car was given the option to either self-destruct or hit a pedestrian. Most people choose the option to self-sacrifice, but then they also said they just won't buy the car. Thats just one example of the accountability gap that still isnt resolved with developing technologies, says Priyardashi.

There is also a cultural context to the issue of ethics.

A Japanese car company asked drivers about hitting either a biker wearing a helmet on the right and one without a helmet on the left. Americans would prefer to hit the driver on the right thinking the helmeted rider will most likely be OK. Asian drivers, by contrast, would hit the rider on the left without headgear because the other guy is following the law.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, June 19, 2017

The Supreme Court won't get involved in the 10-year-old "Dancing Baby" battle, which centers on copyright owners' attempts to police online copyright infringement.

The court's move leaves in place an appellate decision that requires copyright holders to consider fair use, if only to a limited extent, before demanding that online platforms remove material for alleged copyright infringement.

The dispute dates to 2007, when Stephanie Lenz uploaded a 29-second clip to YouTube of her toddler dancing while Prince's "Let's Go Crazy" played in the background. Copyright owner Universal Music, which hired people to scour YouTube for clips that potentially infringe copyright, demanded that Google remove the clip. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act enables copyright owners to demand that online platforms remove infringing content.

YouTube initially removed the clip, but restored the video after Lenz argued that it was protected by fair use principles.

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Lenz, represented by the digital rights group Electronic Frontier Foundation, then sued Universal over the initial takedown notice. Lenz argued that she was was entitled to damages because the Digital Millennium Copyright Act imposes liability on anyone who knowingly sends a Web site an improper takedown notice.

Universal countered that it didn't knowingly send a false takedown request, and shouldn't have to pay Lenz anything -- especially given that her clip was restored.

The 9th Circuit issued a mixed decision in the case. The judges ruled that content owners can't send takedown requests without first considering whether clips make fair use of copyrighted material. But they also ruled that copyright owners need not make the correct decision about whether a clip is protected by fair use, as long as they consider the question. Instead, owners need only form a "subjective good faith belief" that the material was infringing.

Lenz subsequently sought Supreme Court review. The EFF argued that the appellate ruling gave too much leeway to content holders. "Left undisturbed, the ruling in this case gives a free pass to the censorship of online speech, particularly fair uses," the group argued in a petition seeking a hearing at the Supreme Court. "An author could cause a hosting service to take a critical review offline, without fear of consequence, if she held the mistaken view that the reviewer's use of a quote was unlawful."

The battle between Lenz and Universal could now return to a federal district court for a trial over whether the music company had a subjective good faith belief that Lenz's clip infringed copyright.
By Press Trust of India: Dhaka, Jun 18 (PTI) At least five persons were killed today in separate incidents of landslides triggered by heavy rains in Bangladesh.

The landslides occured in the wee hours in Khagrachhari and Moulvibazar districts.

A 14-year-old boy and his 10-year-old younger brother were among the dead in Khagrachhar, Dhaka Tribune reported.

"The incident took place due to the torrential rain early today. The death toll might increase," a police official was quoted as saying by daily.

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An official confirmed the death of another five-year-old boy in the landslide.

A woman and her daughter were killed in a landslide in Moulvibazar district this morning, the report said.

Afia Begum, 50, from Moddhodimai village and her daughter Fahmida Begum, 13, were killed after their house was crushed under a landslide mass from a hillock, a local official said.

Locals recovered the dead bodies of the duo removing the landslide mass in the morning.

With the addition of these two new landslides, the death toll from landslides in Chittagong division has risen further to 161.

The southeastern Rangmathi, Chittagong and Bandarban hill districts have been the worst affected regions in Bangladesh where incessant monsoon rains have triggered a series a landslides and caused water-logging in many parts, besides submerging a number of villages.

Densely populated Bangladesh is battered by storms, floods and landslides every rainy season but this years rain is the worst since 2007 when landslides killed 127 people in the port city. PTI AJR NSA AJR

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Cantel Medical Corp. provides infection prevention and control products and services for the healthcare market. The company's Medical segment offers automated endoscope reprocessing systems; disinfectants and sterilants; detergents; leak testing and manual cleaning products; storage cabinets and transport systems; manual cleaning products; endoscope process tracking products; other consumables, accessories, and supplies for use in disinfect rigid endoscopes, flexible endoscopes, and other instrumentation; and technical maintenance services. Its Life Sciences segment provides dialysis water purification and bicarbonate mixing systems; hollow fiber filters, and other filtration and separation products; liquid disinfectants and cold sterilization products; dry fog products; room temperature sterilization equipment and services; and clean-room certification and decontamination services for the dialysis and other healthcare, research laboratories, food and beverage, and commercial industrial customers, as well as microbiological testing services. The company's Dental segment offers hand and powered dental instruments, instrument reprocessing and sterility assurance products, towels, bibs, tray liners, sponges, nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation equipment and related single-use disposable nasal masks, face masks, and shields. It also provides hand sanitizers, germicidal wipes, disinfectants, surface disinfectants, waterline treatment products, saliva ejectors, evacuator tips, plastic cups, prophy angles, and prophy paste. The company's Dialysis segment provides hemodialysis concentrates and other ancillary supplies; medical device reprocessing systems; and sterilants and disinfectants. The company sells its products through its direct distribution network in the United States; and directly or under various third-party distribution agreements internationally. Cantel Medical Corp. was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Little Falls, New Jersey.
Brookfield Asset Management is an alternative asset manager and REIT/Real Estate Investment Manager firm focuses on real estate, renewable power, infrastructure and venture capital and private equity assets. It manages a range of public and private investment products and services for institutional and retail clients. It typically makes investments in sizeable, premier assets across geographies and asset classes. It invests both its own capital as well as capital from other investors. Within private equity and venture capital, it focuses on acquisition, early ventures, control buyouts and financially distressed, buyouts and corporate carve-outs, recapitalizations, convertible, senior and mezzanine financings, operational and capital structure restructuring, strategic re-direction, turnaround, and under-performing midmarket companies. It invests in both public debt and equity markets. It invests in private equity sectors with focus on Business Services include infrastructure, healthcare, road fuel distribution and marketing, construction and real estate; Industrials include manufacturers of automotive batteries, graphite electrodes, returnable plastic packaging, and sanitation management and development; and Residential/ infrastructure services. It targets companies which likely possess underlying real assets, primarily in sectors such as industrial products, building materials, metals, mining, homebuilding, oil and gas, paper and packaging, manufacturing and forest product sectors. It invests globally with focus on North America including Brazil, the United States, Canada; Europe; and Australia; and Asia-Pacific. The firm considers equity investments in the range of $2 million to $500 million. It has a four-year investment period and a 10-year term with two one-year extensions. The firm prefers to take minority stake and majority stake. Brookfield Asset Management Inc. was founded in 1997 and based in Toronto, Canada with additional offices across Northern America; South America; Europe; Middle East and Asia.
Tele Columbus AG, together with its subsidiaries, operates fiber optic networks in Germany. The company operates in two segments, TV, and Internet and Telephony. The company offers analogue, digital TV, and radio broadcasting services. Its digital entertainment platform offers approximately 250 TV channels, and 60 digital radio stations. The company also provides internet and telephony, and mobile telephony services. In addition, it engages in the B2B business that comprises products to provide carrier companies with bandwidth and business client networking services, and business clients with internet and telephony services, as well as network monitoring and data center marketing services. Further, the company offers construction services to install fiber optic networks or connecting residential areas. It sells its end user products under the PYUR name. As of December 31, 2020, it served approximately 3.3 million residential units. The company was formerly known as Tele Columbus Holding GmbH and changed its name to Tele Columbus AG in September 2014. Tele Columbus AG was founded in 1972 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany.
Enbridge Inc. operates as an energy infrastructure company. The company operates through five segments: Liquids Pipelines, Gas Transmission and Midstream, Gas Distribution and Storage, Renewable Power Generation, and Energy Services. The Liquids Pipelines segment operates pipelines and related terminals to transport various grades of crude oil and other liquid hydrocarbons in Canada and the United States. The Gas Transmission and Midstream segment invests in natural gas pipelines, and gathering and processing facilities in Canada and the United States. The Gas Distribution and Storage segment is involved in natural gas utility operations serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Ontario, as well as natural gas distribution and energy transportation activities in Quebec. The Renewable Power Generation segment operates power generating assets, such as wind, solar, geothermal, and waste heat recovery facilities; and transmission assets in North America and Europe. The Energy Services segment provides energy marketing services to refiners, producers, and other customers; and physical commodity marketing and logistical services in Canada and the United States. The company was formerly known as IPL Energy Inc. and changed its name to Enbridge Inc. in October 1998. Enbridge Inc. was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Veteran Ghanaian reggae/dancehall big leaguer and Highgrade Family's front liner, Samini, will be playing at the One Vibe Africa and MoPOP's 4th Annual Madaraka Festival as one of the big acts across Africa.

The theme for the festival "African Music & Fashion" features performances from the likes of Rocky Dawuni, Otieno Terry, Dynamq, Meklit Hadero, Chimurenga Renaissance, and other surprising guests and a runway fashion show all on one big stage. By showcasing African music and fashion in a different light, Madaraka hopes to change the narrative of stereotypes held on these topics. Its going to be a night of music and purpose.

Madaraka Festival, is a creative collaboration among Seattle artists in support of One Vibe Africas Music and Art Program, based in Kisumu, Kenya.

Samini who is currently promoting his newly released banger "My Own" officially hosted by DJ Frass on the "Reggae Fest Riddim" promises a master class performance, as always, on the night of the event.
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Ghanas reigning Vodafone Ghana Music Awards Artiste of the Year, Joe Mettle is set to record his next live album at his Praiz Reloaded Concert which will be held at the Accra international Conference Centre on Sunday 25th June 2017.

Barely two weeks after being crowned the Artiste of Excellence, West Africa, at the just ended African Gospel Music and Media Awards in the UK, Joe Mettle is ready to record his next live album. The live DVD recording will feature, some gospel artistes including Ohemaa Mercy, Ntokozo Mbambo, Akesse Brempong, Luigi Maclean, and the Lovegift band among others. Praiz Reloaded is in its 6th successful year running and attracts audiences from the West African sub region, USA, Canada, UK and across the world.

The gospel sensation is expected to thrill patrons with a great time of worship and praise filled with miracles and testimonies of Gods goodness. Joes next album which is dubbed God of Miracles is expected to be released in October this year. All songs on the album have deeply inspired lyrics and sits on a variety of local and contemporary grooves.

The Praiz Reloaded Concert is lead sponsored by Vodafone. Tickets are available at all Vodafone retail shops in Accra and Tema. Other sponsors include, Unibank Ghana, JA PlandtPool, Dusk Capital, Jandel Ltd, Yamaha and Holiday Inn.
Rebecca Asamoah, the reigning Miss Africa Continent queen, has disclosed that she is single because she is not allowed to date as a queen.

According to the beautiful lady, who is also Miss Ghana 2015 runner-up, she has a contract with the organisers of Miss Africa Continent which stops her from dating.

This, she revealed, is to get her focused on her responsibilities as queen. Dating, she said, may distracts her, hence that decision.

I have got a year contract with Africa and in my contract I can't date It (being a queen) comes with a lot of responsibilities and they make you understand if you are dating and don't have someone who will understand, it will be a big problem. So as a result one year, no relationship, she told Nana Aba Anamoah on Cheers Show on Ghone TV when she was asked if she has a man in her life.

She was on the show to talk about representing Ghana at the upcoming 2017 Miss United Nations world pageant to be held in Jamaica.

She will be representing Ghana on that stage as the first Ghanaian queen to share Miss United Nations' stage. She is hopeful of hoisting her country's flag high out there by bringing home the crown. The pageant will take place in Kingston, Jamaica, from July 1 to July 9, with the main event on July 8.

Over 80 contestants will be taking part in the pageantry, and it will be the first time Ghana is presenting a representative. If Rebecca gets crowned, it will, indeed, be a remarkable feat for her and Ghana as a whole. Rebecca is expected to leave Ghana late June 2017 to take part in activities ahead of the grand finale on July 8. She is hoping the public will support her win via votes at http://www.munp.org/contestants/miss-ghana-2017/

She told Nana Aba, I have to win and come and show the crown to you.

About the dating subject, she said she has beentrying to stick to the terms of contract. I am tryingBut I will be handing over very soon.

By Francis Addo (Twitter: @fdee50 Email: [email protected] )




Award-winning British director, of Ghanaian descent, Amma Asante has been honoured by Queen Elizabeth II for her contribution to film.

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) award winner was among the Queens Birthday Honours list that was released on Friday night.

The Queens Birthday Honours recognises more than 1,000 people who have made achievements in public life or committed themselves to serving and helping Britain.

Twice a year, the Queen gives out honours: once on New Years Day and then on her official birthday which fell on June 17. (Note: Queen Elizabeth has two birthdays, the first one falls on April 21.)

Known for several award-winning films, including, A Way of Life, Belle and A United Kingdom, Amma Asante was honoured with the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

The MBE is given to people for their outstanding achievement or service to the community.

She posted on Instagram: I'm honoured to be awarded an MBE from Queen and country for services to film in this year's Queen's #BirthdayHonours #BlackWomenInFilm #WomenInFilm 

Half of this years Queens Birthday Honours list are women. Ten per cent are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

There is a total of 1,109 people on the Queen's Birthday Honours list, of whom 438 are awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), 221 Order of the British Empire (OBE) and 303 British Empire Medal (BEM).

Last year, Dentaa Amoateng, founder of the Ghana UK Based Awards (GUBA), was awarded an MBE in Queen Elizabeth II's 2016 Birthday Honours.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Ernest Dela Aglanu (Twitter: @delaXdela / Instagram: citizendela)
The Ghana Actors Guild has disclosed plans to outdoor a movie and a stage play to help educate Ghanaians on instant injustice.

The guild believes that the move is their way of helping curb the growing menace in the country.

The issue of mob injustice gained national attention following lynching of Major Maxwell Mahama.

Major Maxwell Adams Mahama died on Monday, May 29, after he was beaten, stoned and burnt by residents of Denkyira-Obuasi in the Central Region. They mistook him for an armed robber and lynched him because he carried a weapon while doing his usual early morning physical exercise.

President of the Ghana Actors Guild, Samuel Fiscian, speaking at the induction ceremony of new executives of the guild at the Arts Centre in Accra on Sunday, said plans are far advanced for the production of the movie and stage play.

The Ghana Actors Guild will join in a campaign to stop the so-called instant justice which has thrown our nation into a state of shock and disbelief in the last few days, he revealed.

We wish to announce that we have commissioned a scriptwriter to prepare scripts for both stage and screen to activate the campaign. Very soon we will start production of our campaign movie, Never Again to educate the population on the need to stop the instant justice or any other mob action that leaves us with scars on our national conscience, the president of the guild added.

New executives that were sworn in include, Ziggy Netterson (General Secretary), Kalsoume Sinare (National Welfare Officer), Francis Dogbey (National Treasue, and Sarah Laryea (National Executive Member).

New Vice President of the guild, Van Vicker could not attend the event. It was disclosed at the event that he had travelled outside the country.

Mr Fiscian noted that the guild is currently embarking on a reorganisation and rebranding mission and some reforms are currently being untaken to revamp the guild.

Some known personalities at the event included, Bill Asamoah, Martha Ankomah, Irene Opare, Mikki Osei Berko and Abeiku Sagoe.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Ernest Dela Aglanu (Twitter: @delaXdela / Instagram: citizendela)
Mr. Alexander Yaw Danso, President of National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations

19.06.2017 LISTEN

Mr. Alexander Yaw Danso, the President of National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations, has praised Government and institutions, including the Ministry of Education (MoE), Ghana Education Service (GES) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for conducting a leak-free Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) this year.

According to Mr. Alexander Danso, this years BECE was one of the best examinations conducted in the country and said, Apart from Bunkpurugu or so where some 200 candidates did not write their first two papers due to a change in their examination centres, we have not heard of any major incident of leakage anywhere in the country. I think this is one of the best years as far as reports of leakages during BECE are concerned.

Speaking to this reporter in Accra, Mr. Danso said this years BECE could not have been successful without the efforts of the Minister of Education Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Director-General of GES Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa and the management of WAEC.

He pledged the support of parents to the process of quality education delivery to children and added, Our Association shall continue to support child education in the country. We, therefore, appeal to MoE, GES and others to give us the due recognition as parents and as an association so that together we can push the nations education forward.
Ghanaian residents in the UK demonstrated against the Akufo-Addo led government in London on Friday 16th, June 2017.

Many protesters demonstrated in front of the Central Hall in Westminster where President Akuffo Addo met the Ghanaian community in UK.

Eye witnesses were amazed to see huge number of Ghanaians gather together to express their displeasure of Akuffo Addo's led government.It was clear that Ghanaians in the UK were unhappy about the lawleness, insecurity, corruption and injustice in Ghana since president Akufo Addo assumed office considering recent happenings in the country.

The finance minister, Mr Ken Ofori Attah had his own share of the demonstrators displeasure when he mistakengly passed through the wrong entrance to the event hall where demonstrators had congregated. He was boomed at and called names. The government is yet to respond to the issues raised by the demonstrators.

Visible on the placards were: 'stop the lawlessness by your vigilance', 'the $2.25 billion Ken-bond stinks' 'stop the unlawful sacking of the state officials' etc.

It is evident from the demonstration that Ghanaians are unhappy about the the state of lawlessness, indiscriminate dismissal of public servants,high cost of living etc. in the country.

We members of the NDC UK and Ireland chapter will like to use this opportunity to commend Ghanaian residents in the UK who came in their numbers to demonstrate in London and call on Akuffo and the NPP government to do more to improve the security in the country, review the $2.25 bond, stop the indiscriminate sacking of civil servants among others.

Michael Frempong

Communications Officer NDC UK & Ireland Chapter
19.06.2017 LISTEN

When I wrote on the high expectations over 2017 Hajj, I was just trying to prophesy from experience the nitty-gritty that has over the years controlled the fares paid by Nigerian pilgrims for their holy journeys to Makkah. May be it did not attract the attention of the authorities or the public because that was before the announcement of the 2017 Hajj fare by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) early June this year. It is interesting to note that Hajj management in Nigeria has been turned around and that going to Hajj has become as easy as any other international journeys, except for the stresses from the tedious movements to attain the spiritual upliftment while in the holy sites.

What matter much for the trip are health and cash. Everything, every service rendered to a pilgrim in Saudi is paid for by the pilgrim. All arrangements, including airlift of pilgrims, by every participating country in Hajj are subjected to the rules and regulations issued every year by the Saudi Government. And to passionately note is the fact that there is no other Kaaba or Mashair for Hajj that the one in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

I recalled that Hajj fares have been on the increase from the past years and that since the establishment of NAHCON the federal government has always given concessionary exchange rate to fiscal transactions for pilgrimages. For Hajj, its fare components are 98 percent transacted in dollar due to the fact that the activities and payments to service providers are outside the country. No one, including NAHCON, has control over dollar except the federal government.

Most of the service providers are Saudi-based. NAHCON can neither carry the Naira nor the Saudi Riyal from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia to pay the providers of accommodations, transportation, catering and health related services, among others. These are indispensible components of Hajj fares. For 2017 Hajj, the costs of some services in Saudi Arabia especially the transport within the holy sites and the new fire-proof tents in Mina and Arafah have increased by over 200 percent with the backing of Royal Decrees by the Saudi Government. The facts to note are that the cost of major components of the 2017 Hajj fares is less than the 2016; they will be lower with lower concessionary exchange rates and definitely vary in accordance with airfares, accommodation and other charges by states.

Between 2009 and 2016, Hajj fares went up by over a hundred percent. Minimum 2009 Hajj fares (with US$750 was N470,737.38 for north and N477,558.88 for south. In 2016, with the concessionary rate of N197 to US$1, the minimum fares for north was N998,248.92 and N1,047,498.92 for south. In 2012, Hajj fares were based on concessionary exchange rate support of N145. North paid N613,644.52 (minimum) and south N620,967.19. In 2013, pilgrims from the northern departure zones paid N636,496.52 (minimum), south N643,869.52. But the 2014 Hajj fares with exchange rate of N150 to one US$1 was N636,061.77 (minimum) for north and N639,636.77 for south.

The 2015 Hajj fare in dollar computation was US$4,721.93 which was equal to about N766,557.00 with exchange rate of N160 to US$1. In 2016, the total dollar component was US$5,077, in addition to US$750 BTA at N197 official exchange rate which was equal to N1,008,911. For 2017, the total dollar component is $4,839 with US$800 BTA at the official exchange rate of N305, making N1.511,223. With the addition of various local administrative charges by each state, Ondo state has the lowest fare of N1,485,095.07, while Oyo has the highest of N1,584,069.02. It is to be noted that in an effort to curb extraordinary charges by individual state, NAHCON invited them to defend all additional charges. These charges and the differences in Makkah accommodation prices (as against for flat benchmark) are responsible for the differences in the fares from state to state. Where has NAHCON erred?

I want to share the Hajj fare analysis as posted by one Sani Baba Nasidi on a social media. The table showed the money paid by each Nigerian pilgrim who embarked on the holy trip from 1996 to the present. It showed:1996: N121,752.02, 1997:N146,318.60, 1998:N135,520.00, 1999:N131,319,75, 2000:N122,292.00, 2001:N187,322.38, 2002:N219,742.20, 2003:N248,819.36, 2004:N258,494.74, 2005:N263,338.49, 2006:N297,140.40, 2007:N352,826.40, 2008:N417,832.92, 2009:N472,736.38, 2010:N483,879.83, 2011:N521,749.75, 2012:N616,644.69, 2013:N639,496.52, 2014:N689,061.77, 2015:N723,476.57, 2016:N1,018,068.90 and 2017:N1,498,502.70. However, let us look critically at these components and how they affect the Hajj fares,

Air Fare: This is the money paid by each pilgrim for return air ticket of chartered, not scheduled, flights to Saudi. The best explanation to how the price was negotiated was given by the managing director of Medview Airlines, one of the leading airlines in Hajj operations for the long past years. But for further clarity, it is axiomatic that the easy and modern transport system for especially international journeys is by air. No pilgrim can ever think of traveling to Hajj by any other means.

The airlift operations of pilgrims to and from Saudi have been stabilized by the creation of NAHCON. This year, all the processes to prequalify air carriers were strictly adhered to. Summarily, the airliners quoted between US$1,800 to US$1,900. After the screening committee had submitted its reports with a recommendation of US1,800, NAHCON constituted another committee to further negotiate the airfare downward to US$1,650 for northeast, US$1,700 for the rest of the northern zones and US$1,750 for southern departure zones.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites of Mina, Arafah and Muzdalifat are as important as the homes of the intending pilgrims for the sojourn exceeding a month. Though extensively discussed in many fora, it is significant to note that the Nigerian pilgrims are earning the respect of the host country and international Muslim community due to the great improvement in accommodation arrangements by Nigeria for her pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah. Simply, Nigerians now stay in 5 and 4 star hotels around the Holy Mosque of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). NAHCON crashed the cost this year by dealing directly with the landlords and saving over SR614 in Madinah and between 100 to 900 Riyals in Makkah accommodation for each pilgrim.

Feeding: Feeding in Makkah, Madinah and Masha'ir: Feeding is, no doubt, life itself. The organized system of this component of Hajj fare is very necessary. Not all Nigerian pilgrims, most of who are often first timers, can easily adopt foreign menu for the whole period they stay in Saudi. Most of the foods prepared and served in Saudi eateries are fried. However, local residents of African origins cook some sorts of local food and sell to pilgrims. In the past, the hazards associated with the cooking and the environment it is served to the pilgrims which used to be in the open streets, call for caution on the part of the Saudi authorities and the Nigerian hajj regulators. Pilgrim contact different sicknesses from such unhygienic stuffs and the environmental disturbances it cause the Saudis were much.

The Saudi authorities carried out periodic raids on the food vendors and in such times, the pilgrims would go hungry. That is why the Saudi government initiated the organized feeding arrangement which costs each pilgrim SR15 per meal of choice as obtainable or less than other restaurants operating in Madinah. Additionally, the areas where Nigerian pilgrims now stay are security guarded place where these local food vendors in Madinah hardly have access to. This is a clear justification that the feeding arrangement if not a forced one as claimed by some persons but an indispensable one for the wellbeing of the pilgrim. There is also the feeding at arrival and departure points in Saudi as well as Arafah and Mina.

Other payments: The payments paid to the Saudi United Agent, the tent security deposits, the tent C facilities payments, deposits to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj are not under Nigerias control. The desert cooling system charges at Arafat started last year because the temperature during Hajj is increasingly becoming terrible. That is the more reason, the Saudi government has decreed the fire-proofing of Arafat tents for SR300 per pilgrim. In Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) charges 1% commission on transaction for fund transfers.

Other componentsare: NAHCON administrative charges:N3,000, Hajj Development levy:N5,000, suitcases: N16,665 which was initially N22,000 but was negotiated downward by NAHCON on behalf of the pilgrims, uniform: N5,000, Yellow Card:N1,000, administrative charges for state boards:N3,000, Hadaya (sacrificial animal) which is optional depending on the type of Hajj each pilgrim may opt for:N38,000 payable to Jaiz Bank, registration form: N 500 and other exigency charges by states ranging between N16,000 and N50,000 depending on peculiarities .

It is important to thank Nigerians for showing concern to this rise in Hajj fare due to the high cost of forex. The action being taken by the National Assembly put the people representatives as responsible Nigerians standing for their people. The Senate has investigated the fare after meeting with NAHCON. The House of Representatives had set up an Ad-hoc Committee to interface with the NAHCON and other stakeholders to review the increase. The final effects of these moves are being awaited.

In the same vein, some civil society organizations have intervened. The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) exonerated NAHCON from blame for the increase. The executive director, Ishaq Akintola, in a statement said the high exchange rate is responsible, which is beyond NAHCON's control. He said the ensuing controversy from the 2017 Hajj fares was unnecessary and uncalled for. The suspicion, distrust and allegations leveled at NAHCON are equally products of misinformation, he observed, while opposing further subsidy for Hajj on account that 2017 hajj has already been subsidized at exchange rate of N305.

According to him, there is recession and Nigerian Muslims need to sacrifice and pay the approved fares. Further, he said that every special concession granted to Muslims will become a subject of controversy as Christian groups will challenge the federal government for taking such an action. It is clear from the above details that it is highly naive to blame NAHCON for the increase in hajj fare. Neither can FG or the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) be blamed. The major correlate which determines hajj fare is the exchange rate.

He called on the National Assembly (NASS) to wade in and lobby for more concession and appealed to Acting President Yemi Osinbajo to intervene executively and secure a reduction for Muslim pilgrims.

Also, the National Coordinator and Publicity Secretary of the Independent Hajj Reporters, Ibrahim Muhammad and Abubakar Mahmud in Abuja appealed to the Federal Government to grant an exchange rate concession of N200 to a dollar to 2017 intending pilgrims. The group, though acknowledging the governments policy of non-sponsorship of people on pilgrimage, noted that pilgrims are helpless when it comes to monetary foreign exchange policies.

Muhammad Ajah is an advocate of humanity, peace and good governance in Abuja. E-mail [email protected]
By Press Trust of India: Kanyakumari, Jun 19 (PTI): A Ghana national was detained here today for carrying fake British currency in his baggage, police said.

During a check of bus passengers at Amaravilai checkpost, police found that Rope Edison, hailing from Ghana, had British currency in his bag.

Police said Edison, who was on his way to Thiruvananthapuram via Kanyakumari by bus, was carrying equipment to print currency notes.

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Initial investigation revealed that he was part of an international gang involved in smuggling and printing of fake currency notes. PTI COR/SSN SS TRK

--- ENDS ---
It is with much regret that I have decided to come out so bitterly criticise the ongoing style of governance by His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. From what people keep complaining about his infant government with its seeming directionless style of governance that has the potency to exacerbate the suffering of Ghanaians, I have no any other option than to join them in their criticisms of the President, although, constructively.

I should have been the last person to criticise him but what good will it serve him and Ghanaians if we did not point out his short-comings to him for him to change his style of governance for the better? Was I not proudly addressing him as the biblical Joseph, Moses and David of our time? Did I not do that in the belief that God has appointed him to come to liberate Ghanaians from the shackles of socio-economic slavery in which former President Mahama and his Ghanaian version of the Arabian Ali Baba and his forty thieves had bound us? From the events unfolding in Ghana on daily basis, could he be said to fulfilling the duties assigned to him by God? Is he by his actions, inactions, commissions and omissions, not rather compounding the already worsened plight of the Ghanaian masses?

If by becoming his enemy for a while through criticisms will make him rectify the ongoing anomalous situation, why shouldnt I? If by chastising him will get him back on the designated tracks originally set before him by God before he unconsciously slid into the tricks of the evil one, thus, the manipulations of the corrupt members of his government, why should I spare him that chance?

Is it not proverbially said, Spare the rod, and spoil the child? Again, in 1 Corinthians 9:21-22, do we not have the renowned Apostle Paul say, -21To those without the Law I became like one without the Law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the Law. 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might save some of them. Similarly, if by criticising the President will make him wake up to the duties expected of him by the majority of Ghanaians, why shouldnt I do so?

Let it be known to all Ghanaians one thing that our parents in our various homes do tell us. They admonish us, thus, it is he who loves/likes you that will point out your mistakes to you or correct you when you are doing something wrong. When you are engaged in fisticuffs, the person who likes you will advise you to stop fighting while the one goading you to keep fighting must be perceived as your enemy.

Therefore, those who are pointing out the short-comings of His Excellency the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to him, are indeed his friends. Did Benjamin Franklin not say, Critics are our friends, they show us our faults?

I pray that our acclaimed incorruptible President will walk the talk of being a strict person who has aversion for corruption in all its forms and shapes while still championing and upholding the rule of law. As things stand now, he is losing grips of his much touted strictness. Lawlessness in the country, allegations of corruption within his government and perceived backstabbing among government appointees are rife and on the lips of many a Ghanaian.

There is the slightest truth in every rumour hence I cannot write off all those complaining bitterly about the seeming ineffectiveness of the President to translate his strict words into action. Although the President has been in office barely five months, it is more than sufficient length of time for Ghanaians to have started feeling his quality of firmness, fairness and friendliness.

Yes, so far weve seen the President showing his fairness by insisting on the prevalence of the rule of law. He is not personally interfering in court cases to favour anyone but allowing the courts to do their own job. He believes in the separation of powers. This I can confirm to be a credit to him. However, are the courts doing the right thing with all the unnecessary adjournments of cases on daily basis? Who has to make sure that all institutions do function the way they should? Who will be blamed when things begin to fall apart in the country with the centre not holding? Is it not the President?

Yes, the President has been seen to be friendly even though his work schedule and security requirements militate against his desire to interact with lots of people. What is lacking conspicuously is his firmness that is yet to be translated into vivid practicality.

Some of the Presidents appointees could well be said to be square pegs wobbling in round holes. Some of them may be misfits in their roles. They may not only lack the competence to handle the job but also, may clearly be morally deficient hence the susceptibility to corrupting themselves.

The Chief of Staff, Mrs Frema, mandated a task force to retrieve government cars presumed to have been stolen by members of former President Mahamas government and their cronies. In what may constitute utter disrespect for her if not an undermining of her authority, some yet unknown presidential staffers at the Flagstaff House have secretly been releasing the cars back to their owners without the knowledge of the Chief of Staff.

The failure by the President to discipline or sack the presidential staffers showing such unethical practice that defies conventional wisdom, will amount to weakness on his part if indeed the Chief of Staff ordered the confiscation of the vehicles.

Serious governments worth their salt do not take decisions based on emotions. Once a decision is taken, it may be hard to quickly go back to reverse it without suffering attendant adverse repercussions. All decisions except in events of national catastrophe, natural disaster, major accidents/incidents etc., must be well-thought through before making.

Yes, the gruesome murder of Major (Captain) Maxwell Adams Mahama was heartrending. Nobody in their right senses will condone such act. The perpetrators of that heinous crime if properly identified must face the full rigours of the laws. However, the knee-jerk resolution to create a foundation for him, accord him a State burial etc., at the expense of other security colleagues suffered death in performing their duties to the State while in uniform, amounts to favouritism if not discrimination.

When the dust settles with emotions ebbed, I shall entreat the President to set up a public inquiry into why Major Mahama met his untimely death at Denkyira-Obuase. Who sent him there? When did he go there? What was he doing there etc.? Was he sent there to stop or to protect some galamseyers (illegal surface miners)? How often had he gone there?

Let me please emphasise to the President that in the execution of his mandate as conferred on him by the people of Ghana through election 2016, no soldiers can stage any coup detat against him and his government. The ongoing world or West African order will not permit it. Any soldiers that stage a successful coup will be forcefully removed from power. Therefore, the President must be bold to take right decisions at the right time without feeling threatened.

The only force that can square up to him and his government is civil revolution or agitation. As Ghanaians are beginning to know their rights through the understanding of the dynamics of politics, they are ready to hold our politicians and other service heads accountable for their actions. We shall not sit down for the politicians to take us for fools, squandering Ghanas money as if the money was theirs but not the Ghanaian taxpayers.

When we talk about the types of leadership e.g. democrat, dictator and laissez faire, elements of the three can at any given time surface in any of the types of leadership one chooses to practise. Subsequently, I shall advise the President to put his foot down to take certain tough decisions that he deems can make his government deliver to the expectations of Ghanaians. He should not wait for any dithering institutions or persons.

Ghanaians are difficult so they should not always be treated with kids gloves. Corruption has almost become part and parcel of the Ghanaian with government appointees always being the principal masterminds and perpetrators. With this in mind, the President must be strict on his appointees and should not hesitate a second to sack any of them found to engage in corrupt practices if indeed he wants to succeed as an enviable President come to make Ghanaians proud.

He should not be like former President Kufuor who retorted thus, corruption dates as far back as Adam and Eve when questioned about whether or not his government was riddled with graft. His answer went to confirm his inability to fight then corruption in his government and might even go further to conclude that he was himself not clean of corruption.

I hope the Council of State will advise the President to muster courage to deal ruthlessly with any of his appointees found engaging in any slightest act of corruption. This is the only way he can succeed to glorify God.

If I have become an enemy for telling the truth through constructive criticism, so be it! Time is running out for the President to show his mettle.

Rockson Adofo

(Written on Saturday, 17 June 2017)
Rev. Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, General Secretary of the Christian Council

19.06.2017 LISTEN

Peaceful and law abiding Ghana was the hay days when traditional worship was the dominant religious practices in the land. The introduction of Halleluyah and Asalamu Alaikum, shifted the mantle of dominance to the followers of the True Son of God who died on the cross to save the world with the teachings of forgiveness and love, love your neighbor as yourself, among others. Surprisingly, this is the days that lawlessness and apathy has been let loose upon the people.

It has been widely claimed though without any clear statistics that Ghana is a Christian nation.

In an attempt to establish this unproven claim, the Ghana Christian council allegedly registers and accept any Church without doing due process on them. It appears any man who can recite John 3:16 from the Bible can become a pastor and thus qualifies to principal the spiritual soul of his congregation.

A stroll through Accra will awaken your conscience to the abundance of Churches you will see. There are Churches in all corners and every class room is a Church but what is been preached in most of those places is not of the interest of the Christian Council, not even the Internal Revenue Authority (IRA) laws that are being violated by the Churches.

It is not astonishing that the Church persecute and excommunicate those who challenge their official dogma in the history of Church establishment.

Money (the new charity of the Church), fame and preponderance are now the new creed of the Church instead of salvation, love and forgiveness.

So, Christians will jump to attack the traditional set up and condemn Islam whenever a Muslim is found to have committed a crime. Just to paint the peaceful region of mankind black and unappealing to those who believe in peace and truth.

Jihad, which means exhortation to be a good Muslim, is often twisted to sort Christian hegemonic agenda by the mistake of some Islamic scholars in respect of interpreting Ijtihad and Tajdid which allow to interpret Islamic law where there is an allowance for interpretation and renewal of Islamic law. So, they interpreted Jihad in their own way which nearly suggests a holy war and dying for Islam, contrary to the true meaning of Jihad, and the end goals of Islamic law.

Muslims are humans like any other person and are bond to err, but anytime error occurred and the culprit is a Muslim, Christians will jump through Jihad to rubbish the entire Islamic religion, even though the Bible warned them against reproach and condemnation.

Now Major Maxwell Mahama has been lynched to death in a Christian Town at Denkyira-Buasi. 99% of those who lynched him and the onlookers are Christians, yet, none could remember the teaching of the New Testament, not even the doctrine and the values of Christianity, rather, as a Christian Jihadist, they endorsed the law of the Old Testament; an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Holy war for Christ.

Should the Muslims also condemn the Christian religion? Call them Christian Jihadist? Or call them Christian extremists? That would have been fair according the Law of Moses in the Bible, but Muslims again chose to be believers as they have always been, and the believers are described in the Holy Quran as men of understanding and the Quran itself is a sign for the people who understand or people who ponder.

Over the past years and still counting, we have had Christians who have engaged or committed heinous crime against humanity and mother earth, yet, no one condemned their religion. We have had pastors who engage in politics such as Otabil who even called on the youth to take up the government prior to the 2016 election and no one condemned his religion as radical.

When you see Martey, you see bribery, yet the eyes of the Christian council was dim and ears sealed.

The Christian Council will not clean up the mess in their house, yet in a hasty heels to clean someone else house.

What has happened to Major Mahama is a clear lesson to the Christian dome to appreciate the fact that, there are equally bad people in the Christian set up. They should therefore put stop to their religious segregation and bigotry.

Ghana belong to all.
The reaction from the Ghanaian public to the towing levy does not come as a surprise at all. Does it? I guess not. The poor appetite being exhibited by Ghanaians towards the payment of taxes/levies did not begin overnight, it obviously started from somewhere. It could be traced to one thing  poor/misapplication of previous State funds by successive governments and other State institutions over the years.

The idea behind the towing levy itself does not make sense to me and a lot more Ghanaians, and could warrant the kind of rebellious feedback from the general public. But I also think there is more to it.there is this strong perception among the populace about the fact that proceeds from the proposed levy may not serve its intended purpose in the long run. Could the Ghanaian taxpayer be faulted for alleging that greater proportion of the proceeds from the towing levy may be diverted to enrich a few?

Oh yes, they [taxpayers] know.they know about the bunch of rots which are always captured in the Auditor Generals report annually. They knowthey know about embezzlement of State funds, uncovered by anticorruption crusaders like Azure Manasseh, Captain Smart, Anas and the rest. They knowthey know about what goes on at the annual Public Account Committees sitting on GTV. They know about how proceeds from some existing levies are being used to purchase expensive cars and other properties for individuals. They also know about how some toll collectors at tollbooths do get rich overnight, while portions of roads at this very tollbooths are hit with potholes and manholes.

If only our leaders had previously applied our taxes appropriately and to the benefit of the taxpayer, the debate on the towing levy would have probably been different.

When the debate on the ban on plastics came up in 2015, producers and importers of plastic products alluded to the fact that there is an extra tax component paid to government by plastic importers and producers, for plastic waste management in Ghana. How much has been realized from the said special levy imposed on the importation and manufacturing of plastics over the years? How is such fund being applied, with respect to waste management by successive governments? And what is the state of plastic related filth in Ghana today?

All though this may be subjected to further prove, greater proportion of the filth we see in our environment today are those coming from plastics. The inference is that, the demand for, and the utilization of plastics are very high and that, more money would also be realized from the special waste management levy imposed on these plastics to tidy up the environment. The situation is however different.

I dont own a car or motorbike today and even if I am unable to own one tomorrow, my children might own one in future. It is only necessary that I add my opinion voice to this national discourse against this towing levy to ensure my children dont inherit the payment of any unreasonable pre-towing service levy for owing a vehicle.

All that we are saying is that there are a lot of legitimate questions begging for answers, as to how funds from similar levies were applied by governments and State institutions in the past. Providing answers to these questions will give our tax collectors that impetus and the clean hands to come seeking for new levies backed by justifications.

Pre-levying every vehicle owner/user for towing services is obviously not a good idea. Parliament and the President must reconsider this decision.

Ghanaians are not necessarily hostile to levies, but they just dont have the appetite for new levies owing to the fact that proceeds from existing levies are being misapplied and embezzled with so much impunity.

The intention behind the policy may be good, but the policy direction is unarguably wrong.

Charge me for towing my car; dont charge everyone to tow cars.

Author: Gbolu Samson

Email: [email protected]
Geneva (AFP) - Devastating conflicts, violence and persecution in places like Syria and South Sudan had left a record 65.6 million people uprooted from their homes by the end of 2016, the UN said Monday.

That number marks a jump of just 300,000 from the end of 2015, but is more than six million higher than at the end of 2014, according to a fresh report published by the UN refugee agency.

This is "the highest figure since we started recording these figures," UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi told reporters ahead of the report launch.

Syria's six-year conflict has seen 6.3 million people displaced inside the country and 5.5 million seeking safety in other countries

"By any measure, this is an unacceptable number, and it speaks louder than ever to the need for solidarity and common purpose in preventing and resolving crises," he said.

The figures released ahead of World Refugee Day showed that a full 10.3 million of the world's displaced people fled their homes last year alone, including 3.4 million who crossed international borders to become refugees.

'Every three seconds'

"This equates to one person becoming displaced every three seconds -- less than the time it takes to read this sentence," UNHCR pointed out in a statement.

Most people who have been forced from their homes flee within their own country, and are defined as internally displaced people, or IDPs.

South Sudan's civil war, which began in December 2013, has left tens of thousands dead and forced a total of 3.7 million people from their homes

At the end of 2016, there were some 40.3 million IDPs in the world, down slightly from 40.8 million a year earlier, with Syria, Iraq and Colombia accounting for the greatest numbers.

Another 22.5 million people -- half of them children -- were registered as refugees last year, the UNHCR report showed, pointing out that this is "the highest level ever recorded".

Syria's six-year conflict alone has sent more than 5.5 million people seeking safety in other countries, including 825,000 last year alone, making it the world's biggest producer of refugees.

Along with the 6.3 million Syrians displaced inside the country, these numbers show that a nearly two thirds of all Syrians have been forced from their homes, the report said.

As the Syrian civil war rages on, desperately needed funding for humanitarian aid in the country has begun to dwindle, Grandi said, lamenting that very little of the billions promised at an international donor's conference in Brussels in April had so far materialised.

Forgotten crisis?

The Syrian conflict, which has killed more than 320,000 people, "is becoming a forgotten crisis," he warned.

The UN refugee chief meanwhile voiced most alarm over the rapidly deteriorating situation in South Sudan, which he said was currently the world's "fastest growing refugee crisis and displacement crisis."

South Sudan's civil war, which began in December 2013, has left tens of thousands dead and forced a total of 3.7 million people from their homes -- nearly a third of the population.

Overall, the refugee population from the world's youngest country swelled 85 percent last year to reach 1.4 million by the end of 2016, the UNHCR report showed.

And that number has ballooned by a further half million people since then, the agency said, stressing the most of the refugees had left since the "disastrous breakdown of peace efforts" last July.

Syria and South Sudan were far from the only countries where people were being uprooted en masse, with Monday's report also pointing to large-scale displacement in Afghanistan, Iraq and Sudan, just to name a few.

And nearly 70 years after Palestinians first fled today's Israel, some 5.3 million Palestinians are currently living as refugees -- the highest level ever recorded, UNHCR said.

Monday's report also pointed out that, despite huge focus on Europe's migrant crisis, it is poorer countries that host most of the world's refugees.

A full 84 percent of refugees are living in low- and middle-income countries, UNHCR said, blaming this "huge imbalance" on "the continuing lack of consensus internationally when it comes to refugee hosting and the proximity of many poor countries to regions of conflict."
Leading players and socially-responsible brands in the private sector are partnering the Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), West Africa, one of the subregions leading sustainability and corporate social responsibility advocacy organisations to organise the 4th National CSR and Sustainability Conference on 30th June, 2017 in Accra.

Guinness Ghana, Tigo, Odebrecht Engineering and Construction International, Integriti PR, Westkomm joined other partners such as the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters, Association of Ghana Industries, Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, Chamber of Commerce, government regulatory agencies and other local and international civil society organisations to bring to live, the CSR & Sustainability Conference.

Mr. John Kojo Williams, Lead Project Manager and Co-Founder of the Centre explained: Over the years, the Centres activities and conferences have helped demystified the concept of CSR and Sustainability and separated the notion from mere philanthropy. It has also helped put companies on their CSR toes as they strive to do more for stakeholders beyond their core business agenda. However, this Conference will help identify ways indigenous Ghanaian companies can become more socially responsible and even move towards sustainability like some of their multinational counterparts.

The Conference is one of the successful signature advocacy projects of the Centre for CSR, West Africa. It is organised annually, and since 2014, major organisations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Plan International, Care International, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Unilever Ghana, Vodafone Ghana, Guinness Ghana, Millicom Ghana (tigo), the Ministry of Trade & Industry, Association of Ghana Industries, AGI, the Federation of Association of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) among other major technical partners and sponsors have supported the initiative.

Recently, the Centre for CSR, West Africa was acknowledged by the University of Cambridge, UK, for its contribution to the Universitys global research on New CSR Model which studied more than 400 rms.

This years Ghana CSR Excellence Awards, the GHACEA, will be launched at the tail-end of the 4th National CSR & Sustainability Conference. In addition, the Business and CSR Newspaper, a bi-weekly CSR-focused publication will be officially outdoored. It brings to two, the Centres regular publications on CSR: the Ghana CSR Diary (a not-for-sale CSR magazine) and the all-new Business and CSR (a bi-weekly CSR-focused newspaper).

The Centre is organizing similar conferences and publications in other parts of West Africa especially in Nigeria and Ivory Coast, where it opened offices recently.
Ever thought deeply about the words 'noise' and 'sound'? The two words are taken to be synonymous, but there are important differences in meaning between the two, albeit subtly.

If you are singing, you may like the sound of your voice even if you have a discordant voice or sing out of tune. To you, the discordant tune could pass for the most harmonious tune in the world. You bask in that delusion until you attend a musical talent show like 'Mentor' where the judges point to you that the sound of your voice could not be any better than the croaking of a frog. Only there and then will you realize that you have all along been deluding yourself.

Noise is mostly used to mean unwelcome or unpleasant sounds. Noise is very relative. What sounds as noise to one, may sound very pleasant to another. But one thing is clear; the deaf cannot distinguish between the two. Whether pleasant sound or otherwise, the value is the same to the deaf.

Abusuapanin, it is becoming increasingly clear that the Minority is yet to adjust to the reality that their party is no longer in power. The various actions of the individual members and the group itself point to the fact that the group is indeed very desperate. Simply put, they are only making noise.

Yes, I do agree that one of the duties of the Minority is to keep the government on its toes. But, certainly, that does not include voicing out meaningless criticisms anytime the President or any member of his government coughs. Again, that does not mean the Minority should go shouting wolf where there is none.

The ugly noise from the Minority started during the vetting. I'm sure you remember the bribery prank they played on us during the vetting, don't you? They planned to paint Boakye Agyarko and the Nana Addo government black but ended up exchanging verbal blows among themselves.

As I write, the only tune on the lips of the Minority is $2.25 billion bond. Indeed, our ears have been inundated with all manner of criticisms about the so-called negativity related to the issuance of the bond. Their strongest argument is the likelihood of a conflict of interest. But they become deaf and dumb when asked to show the conflict of interest in the transaction.

On the issue of the forty-three cars ordered by the Ogwanfunu government few days before leaving office, Clement Apaak and the other Minority members want us to believe the Kwaku Ananse story they are telling us. They say the cars were ordered at the behest of the incoming government. But two weeks and counting and they are yet to produce the evidence they promised us. Another case of cacophony of noises, isn't it?

The manner Major Adam Mahama lost his life has no doubt irked many of my compatriots. The desperadoes that they are, the opposition Zu-za ignored the sensibilities of the deceased and politicized the soldier's death. Shameless, isn't it?

Talking about Mahama's death brings to mind the so-called peaceful nature of the Ghanaian. Time and again, I hear my compatriots say we are a peace-loving people. That is true to an extent. If we weren't, we wouldn't have tolerated the likes of General Ntontom and the human bull.

But we are overplaying that card. Are my compatriots saying the Kenyans, the Ivorians and the others are not peace-loving? I don't think so. Their countries were once as peaceful as ours. It only took the foolhardiness of some of their compatriots to plunge their countries into the abyss. That is why we should be wary of the noise-makers parading as legislators.

By now I'm sure you are aware that the much anticipated visit to the country by Floyd Mayweather has been called off. Could you believe that too has been politicized? One loud-mouthed MP from the Minority side was heard screaming that the trip was cancelled because the American Embassy in Ghana had advised that the security situation in the country was calamitous.

Well, the American Embassy has come out to clear the air. The Embassy said they gave no such advice to Mayweather. In other words, the so-called insecurity in the country is nothing but the imagination of the loud-mouthed legislator. To put it bluntly, the legislator had concocted a lie and was trumpeting the ugly noise to please his party folks.

Just as Yesu Kristo prayed on the cross for those who persecuted him, so I urge my compatriots to pray for the Minority because they have serious hearing impairment and cannot differentiate between pleasant sound and ugly noise. They are just a bunch of confused legislators who think making a lot of noise would amount to common sense. How I weep for the country that pays such noise-makers!

See you next week for another interesting konkonsa, Deo volente!
Six Months into the presidency of Nana Akufo Addo, Ghana is going through one of the most tumultuous moments in its history as a result of a total lack of control on the security of the state. This state of lawlessness has arisen largely as a result of the governments failure to rope in its various vigilante groups leading to criminals being emboldened and ordinary people taking a cue from this spate of impunity. Whilst the Police Administration wants to assure the populace that there is no breakdown in law and order in the nation, we the Young Cadres think they are being economical with the truth.

Indeed, from our own independent research, over 80 percent of Ghanaians do not trust the Police to protect them anymore. We are by this press release sending a note to the President and his government that if, in a matter of two weeks from now, we do not see any concrete measures put in place to address the insecurity being experienced in the nation, we will march to the Flagstaff House to seek answers.

It has now become a daily occurrence to hear of mob action across the length and breadth of this nation. In a matter of a month or so, the nation has witnessed a military officer being lynched and two policemen being killed. During this same period, we have witnessed a mob attacking and vandalizing property of the Electricity Corporation of Ghana (ECG) in Somanya; the Tamale Hospital being besieged and attacked by the so-called Kandahar Boys of Tamale, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) vigilante group; and just yesterday, NPP thugs clashing with security personnel in Savelugu to prevent the new Municipal Chief Executive from taking office.

What signals again need to be sent to the President, the National Security Minister, the Interior Minister and the whole National Security apparatus for them to know that we are living in dangerous times? Will President Akufo Addo continue to play the ostrich whilst innocent Ghanaians are being brutalized and some killed on a daily basis?

As a youth group focused on safeguarding and protecting the interest of the youth of this country, we the members of the Young Cadres Association would want to entreat the President to, for once, stamp his feet on the ground and let sanity prevail in this country. We do reckon that it is always the youth who are mobilized and called upon to carry out most of these mob actions and we cannot sit by idle and allow this to continue. Failure to heed this call, the President and his government should not be shocked when they wake up one day to find that ordinary Ghanaians are taking things into their own hands and buying guns and other weapons to protect themselves.

Already, available data from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre ( KAIPTC) indicates that there are around 2.3 million guns in the hands of civilians, pointing to the fact that people simply do not feel secure anymore in this country and they have to make provisions to protect themselves.

Long Live Ghana

Long Live the NDC

Long Live Young Cadres

Signed:

Michael Derry

President

YCA

(0245983380)

Bright Botchway

General Secretary

YCA

(0249999145)?
A statement issued by the Chief Executive of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Kwasi Agyeman Busia is cautioning members of the general public to disregard the wild speculations surrounding the cost of the new Drivers Licence which is yet to be rolled out this year.

Below is the full statement

The attention of the management of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority has been drawn to speculations by certain groups of people pertaining to the cost of the new Smart Drivers Licence about to be launched and how the Authority intends to manage the old and new licences.

Management wishes to explain that the price of the new Smart Drivers Licence is still being discussed and the public will be duly informed when a decision is made. Management assures of its sensitivity to the concerns of our customers and will, therefore, come up with an affordable price.

Management again wishes to explain that the Smart Drivers Licence that will be issued after the launch of the product will be used side-by-side the old licence until the old one expires and the customer is issued with a new licence. Besides, the new licence will be issued under the following conditions:

When a customer misplaces his/her licence When a customer applies for a foreign licence to be converted to a local one When a licence becomes completely defaced, and When an applicant successfully goes through a licence upgrade.

In addition to those legally mandated occasions when Authority would have no choice than to issue a new Smart Drivers Licence to customers, all customers who voluntarily decide to change the old licence for a new one, in order to enjoy the benefits that will accrue from the use of the Smart Drivers Licence, will be given the opportunity to do so and will pay a reasonable amount that is being currently discussed.

Last but not the least, management wishes to explain that it was still in the process of putting strategies together to adequately educate all its major stakeholders as well as the general public when information on the new smart Drivers Licence inadvertently got to the press.

Management assures that it will do everything possible to ensure that all Ghanaians, especially our major stakeholders, are effectively engaged and educated before the launch of the new smart drivers licence.
Ikechi Uko, organizer of the Akwaaba African Travel markets annual exhibitions in Lagos, Nigeria, was recently named the 2016 MICE East Africa's Tourism and Hospitality Personality.

The award was part of the 2017 MICE East Africa Forum and Expo in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The award was presented to Mr. Uko by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ethiopian Tourism Organisation, Yohannes Tilah, for his unrelenting passion towards tourism and hospitality in Africa.

This award is presented as recognition for your invaluable contributions for the overall advancement of tourism and hospitality businesses in Africa. Your tireless effort to promote African tourism has greatly helped domestic hospitality becoming sources of economic growth and social development, as well as building international reputations.

On behalf of MICE East Africa Forum and Expo and the Hotel Show Africa Hospitality Investment Trade show, we are grateful to honour you and acknowledge your continued works throughout African tourism and hospitality industry, said Kumneger Teketel WG, Managing Director of Ozzie Business & Hospitality GP  the show organizer.

Receiving the award, Mr. Uko acknowledged the sustained efforts of Africans who are working hard to strengthen tourism on the continent.

I dedicate the award to Africa and all Africans promoting Travels within Africa, Mr. Uko said.

Ikechi Uko is also the publisher of ATQNews.com and Travellers magazine, a leading travel magazine in West Africa.

He is also the convener of Port Harcourt Bantaba which is aimed at stimulating tourism and hospitality in his country Nigeria and Accra's Weizor, an event in Ghana, which aims at promoting seamless travels in West Africa.


Foremost cement manufacturer, GHACEM Limited, has held a ground breaking ceremony to construct a modern truck terminal in Takoradi at the old slaughter house premises.

The truck terminal estimated to cost about 1.2 million Euros will be used by GHACEM bound cement trucks to and from Takoradi in a bid to enhance operations of the company.

Cutting the sod to officially commence the project, the Strategy and Corporate Affairs Director of GHACEM, Rev Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, revealed that the project is targeted at facilitating the company's operations and also enhancing business activities within the Takoradi metropolis by easing traffic.

He added that the project also formed part of the company's corporate social responsibility of investing in communities in which it operates.

With more trucks coming in, the expected revenue such as road tolls and taxes will be generated to develop the metropolis, he said and called on stakeholders and the people in the area to give the necessary support.

Dr Dawson-Ahmoah reiterated GHACEM's commitment to developing the economy and the people of Ghana in diverse ways.

He made reference to recent payment of GH8 million dividend to the Government for the 2016 financial year and the annual distribution of free cement under the GHACEM Cement foundation (GCF) to support educational and health institutions throughout Ghana.

Till date from the inception of the GCF, a total of about 500,000 bags of cement have been allocated totaling about GH16 million benefitting about 4,500 communities throughout Ghana, he opined.

Rev. Dr. Dawson-Ahmoah seized the occasion to appeal to government to address the unfair trade practices facing the local industry for it to thrive and become a major source of job creation.

We welcome the Ghana International Trade Commission Act and hope it's inaugurated soon

Giving more details about the project, the Works Manager of the GHACEM Takoradi Plant, Jorn Johansen, announced that the project is expected to be completed by mid 2018 and will have facilities such as eating place, restrooms, offices for distributors/customers and the Sales and Marketing staff.

He expressed the hope that the huge investment will spur economic development in the region with the influx of more trucks but less traffic.

Also present to witness and endorse the project were Alberta Cudjoe, a member of the Council of State and K.K Sam, the Chief Executive of Secondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), who was optimistic the construction of the truck terminal would bring relief to the people within the municipality by curbing indecent parking of trucks in the area.
Extending open support to militancy in Kashmir, banned terror outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa of Hafiz Saeed has performed funeral prayers in Lahore for militants killed in the Valley over past weeks in encounters with security forces.

Jamaat-ud-Dawa holds prayer meeting in Lahore for militants killed in Kashmir. (Photo: Hamza Ameer/India Today)

By Hamza Ameer: Members of proscribed outfit Jamat-ud-Dawa today performed imaginary funeral prayers of what they called martyrs from Jammu and Kashmir at their head office in Lahore.

Funeral prayers were offered for militants Junaid Mattoo, Nasir Wani, Adil Mushtaq and Sabzar Bhat, who were killed recently by security forces in Kashmir Valley.

The funeral prayers were offered at the headquarters of Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Alqadsiya Markaz, which is located at Chuburji roundabout in Lahore.

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Saifullah Khalid, the head of Jamat-ud-Dawa Lahore and the new brand name Tehrik-e-Azadi Jammu Kashmir led the funeral prayers.

Anti-India slogans were chanted before the funeral prayers. Special prayers were also offered for slain Hizbul commander Burhan Wani, who was killed in encounter with security forces July last year.

Jamaat-ud-Dawa alleged that the security forces are violating human rights in Kashmir saying that the soldier who used a Kashmiri as a human shield was awarded by Indian Army.

Jamaat-ud-Dawa said that it would continue to support militancy in Kashmir. Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed is under arrest in Pakistan on various charges.

ALSO READ |

With boss Hafiz Saeed under house arrest, Jamaat-ud-Dawa rebrands itself

ALSO WATCH | Hazif Saeed and 4 others put on house arrest in Pakistan. Who's Hafiz Saeed?

--- ENDS ---


The Executive Chairman of State Enterprises Commission (SEC) has appealed to government and other key players in the country's private sector to consider supporting the Ghana Post Company Limited (GPCL).

Mr. Boateng made the appeal after he visited GPCL's head office on Friday in Accra.

The Executive Chairman, who called for both state and private support to sustain the company, said with the right assistance, GPCL could once again become vibrant.

He said that the postal company was operating under deplorable conditions.

As a company that has once been a key contributor to national development, it ought to be assessed to avert its collapse, he added.

Mr. Asamoah indicated that Ghana Post, which has been in existence for a very long time, has provided some important services to Ghana over the years.

Its operations have been very vital across West Africa and the world at large, he said.

According to the acting Managing Director of Ghana Post Company Limited, James Kwofie, We are running a negative cash flow.

He added that the new management of the company has taken some important decisions to resolve the challenges facing the company.

By Edward Emmanuel Lamptey


19.06.2017 LISTEN

A group believed to be supporters of the embattled Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Savelugu-Nanton District of the Northern Region; Hajia Ayishetu Seidu has promised a showdown with any group that will dare prevent her from discharging her official duties.

It has also served notice that it recognizes her as the MCE and any attempts to revoke her appointment will be met with series of protestations.

The counter group described the protestors as ignorant who are not abreast with local governance issues coupled with the competence of the MCE, yet are engaging in violent activities in the area denigrating the image of the party.

Led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Nantong Constituency Communications Director, A.A Latif, they described Hajia Ayishetu Seidu as the best MCE to transform area warning that they will not hesitate to also register their displeasure if the group continues their rowdy conduct with impunity while the security agencies look on.

They have since petitioned the presidency indicating that Hajia Ayishetu Seidu remains the MCE for the area and moves to remove her will be fiercely resisted.

Below is the MCE defenders petition

PETITION BY CONCERNED CITIZENS OF SAVELUGU-NANTON MUNICIPALITY FOR THE RECOGNITION AND SUPPORT FOR THE CONFIRMED NOMINEE, HON. HAJIA AYISHETU SEIDU, AS THE MUNICIPAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF SAVELUGU-NANTON

Good morning, Ladies and gentlemen, and a very good day to everyone here gathered. We appreciate so much the time and resources expended to be here today, on the occasion of our presentation of a representative petition. Please hear us out, as we seek to straighten a path that seeks to lead us away from goodwill.

Everything that happens, does so for a good reason. In this country, laws, regulations and standard practice supercede individual interests. This is sacrosanct. The processes that lead to the nomination of a person, by the President of the land, is quite hectic, to begin with. It entails a lot of consultation from the local scene, to the regional authority, and through to the very seat of government, in this case, the Flagstaff House in Accra. As such, it is not without doubt that people will hold divergent views as to the processes that lead to the appointment of the eventual nominee, and hold shades of grudges too. We take cognisance of the fact that, His Excellency the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, did us the honour, did not exclude our municipality from the roll, and nominated for us one of our own, a mother and a servant of the people, Hajia Ayishetu Seidu. We would like to reiterate that, we acknowledge the time and deeper processes that went into the selection of nominees this year, and we are grateful to the appointing authority.

Ladies and Gentlemen, having received the mention of Hajia Ayishetu Seidus name, the Savelugu-Nanton Municipal Assembly convened to affirm or reject the Presidents nominee, as by law enshrined. After what could aptly be referred to as a dramatic turn of events, and by the grace of the one true God, the Presidents nominee was given the nod to assume her place as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Savelugu by 50 out of 64 (78%). We would like to place emphasis here that, it was not a position gifted to her, as some people have thrown such contortions about.

She, and a formidable team behind her, fought to assume the office. As natives and residents of Savelugu, let us please give recognition to this fact, and help her build for us the community we have envisaged over the past years since the attainment of our status as a district, and through to being a municipality.The President proposed her but we did the confirmation! Thus, we agreed to work with her! It will be therefore unfair to make a u-turn at this point especially without following the due process.

The Honourable Hajia Ayishetu Seidu was duly confirmed by our own representatives, the elected men and women of the Assembly, and therefore, per the democratic order of practice, is the legitimate representative of the central government here. We do not believe that this can be contested anywhere feasibly.

As ordinary members of both the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and most importantly this local government area, we have committed to make it known that, the needless dragging of matters would not affect the person and personality of the confirmed Honourable MCE, but the entirety of the municipality. Under usual circumstances, one must expect opposition to whatever concerns the multitude. It is absolutely normal to have some, from within the collective, who will commit time and resources oppose cogent ideas and ones rise to grace. The only time when this becomes needless is when such opposition goes to affect the grassroot supporters and sympathisers of the general cause, and the catchment area as a whole. To wit, the existence of factions, battling it out, covertly, publicly, and rather painfully, has no effect on the perpetrators of this factionalism that seeks to destroy rather than build. It is we, the ordinary participants in the affairs of the government and the municipality, who suffer the undue delay in the start of serious governance here at the local level. Lest we forget, these happenings can cause apathy and disaffection for the party and government, coming from core NPP members and the public at large.

Besides, and much more importantly, this municipal area is bedevilled with huge developmental challenges that seek to erode the few gains made over the past years. There are issues of sanitation, basic infrastructure, youth unemployment, fallen levels of education, and many other issues that would exhaust mention if care is not taken. Rather than concentrate our efforts at denigrating and hounding the peoples choice, and making it difficult for the machinery of government to assume full operational capacity here in Savelugu-Nanton, we could be well jump into full gear, helping the government of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo realise the hopes and aspirations of our people, and working assiduously with the collective interest in mind.

We dare say that enough time has been expended doing the bidding of power brokers, perceived and real, and now is the time to come back on track. In other places, far worse misgivings and agitations cropped up in the course of the selection and confirmation of DCE and MCE nominees.Our next door neighbours, Sagnarigu district is an example worth mentioning.

The gravity of theirs was as high as the limit of the sky.But they displayed high sense of political maturity and democracy when they, including other people who did the DCE bidding ,came together to restore political sanity and peace resulting in the continuity of the developmental agenda of the district. However, so characteristic of people who really consider the development of their locality above all other personal interests and demands, they have found express ways of laying their individualities aside, and have teamed up to prosecute the set agenda of their collective wishes, and that of the central government.

Elsewhere, political party interests, though of considerable consideration, have paved way for them to work towards one goal  development. While some districts have begun implementing the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative with all seriousness, the case is different here. Even, less-endowed districts can ably point out their DCEs with pride, and begin to mention what efforts they have already put in place as in contributing to development.

Again, lets look at our closed villegers, Kumbungu. The DCE took delivery of fertilizers and other farm inputs on behalf of his district to prosecute the flagship program-Planting for foods and jobs. The people of Savelugu are known to be ahead of Kumbungu in all good aspects of life including education and democracy as we always to them . I am sad to state that today Kumbungu has now taken the lead democrtically.We are now a laughing stock! Can we do the same here, in this municipality that has all it takes to hit the road running with full vigour? We would like to plead with all indigenes and residents of Savelugu-Nanton, the dissenting groups within the NPP fraternity, and all well meaning partners to consider the development of Savelugu-Nanton as the only project of prime consideration, and merge forces to deepen our resolve to leave positive prints in this land that we all love.

Lest we forget, it is not unknown that the constituency within which we stand here today, is not a safe seat for the party in government today. Traditionally, the NPP as a party has not fared very well, electorally, in this place. Having been blessed with the taking of this constituency for the foremost time, one would expect that, as orphaned children given a place in a temporary shelter, we would work hard to broaden our support base, diversify our political activities positively, and increase the support tally that we have on target, so that we plant a foothold on this constituency. Rather than effectuate this agenda, infighting and unrewarding machinations have taken over our collective interests, and here we are today.

The many years spent in the political wilderness, in our consideration, should inform and remind us, very often, that it took a lot of time, energy, and commitment of costly resources before political power became ours to manage, by the grace of the Most High. We cannot afford to allow persons and factions within us to take us down that path again. Our actions and inactions will tell where we really want to be found, in the not-too-distant future.

Before anyone or any group from among us can do us any further harm, let us please give all the support to our honourable MCE, so that, as governments lead representative here, and acting with communal and political party structures, we can retain this seat, make it ours, and own it. We would be able to project and realise the very reason why political parties exist  contest elections, win elections, control affairs  again and again, many times over. Honestly, the mother-figure in our MCE is such that, she can be very understanding and cooperative once we are a team and nothing else. And with the support of all, she will lead us to achieve all we ever wished for our fledgling municipality.

Respected people, all eyes are on the Savelugu municipality, in these times. If we are unaware of this, then we need to take heed, for the harm being done is ever increasing. The more we keep these disagreements going, the more we lose favour in the eyes of very respected stakeholders in this land: our revered chiefs who own the land, the clergy and ulamas who direct our paths. As we keep dissenting on the rightful assumption of Hon. Hajia Ayishetu Seidu to the high office of Municipal Chief Executive of Savelugu-Nanton, we loose favour in the eyes of our party hierarchy in the region, and ultimately His Excellency the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

This is not healthy for us at all. By our actions, we are telling the President that though we have confirmed the person he held extensive consultations to nominate for the municipality, we will not support her to work, and we will not allow her to work with the Assembly. We are only telling the peoples representatives, the Assemblymen and Assemblywomen, that, we do not respect them and the honour they have bestowed on Hon. Hajia Ayishetu Seidu, and that, they did not convey the broad expectations of their electorates.

We would only be sending wrong signals to the good people of our town that we cherish individual motives more than the development of the town. If care is not taken, and we actually inherit a page in the Presidents blacklist, the stock of projects and programmes registered in the name of our dearest townships and environs of Savelugu and Nanton would all go to waste  others will eat up our grace and honour, while we lag far behind in the various development indices compiled from time to time on districts in Ghana.

Respectfully, we would like to call on the overlords of the land, the religious leadership, party executives and supporters, the northern regional minister, youth groups and all well-meaning stakeholders in Savelugu- Nanton to let us lay calm to peace and understanding, accept the confirmation of the honourable Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Hajia Ayishetu Seidu in good faith, and help her advance the development agenda of the municipality. We owe this to ourselves, and posterity will be the determiner.

The verdict of 2012 elections was a difficult one take but we took it in good faith. Although some members of our party didnt agree with the then candidate Nana Addo, now our president, but we respected his decision. Is time to repeat that political and national patriotism in ourselves.

We all here respect your views and opinions but we felt they can be better resolved in a round table discussions.

We thank you for the audience. For progress and our forward march, and for accepting to be part of this new direction, may we all succeed.

Thank you!

- SIGNED -

Alhassan Abdul Lateef

Communication Director (Nanton Constituency)
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The political climate of the savelugu municipality has recently been tottery. It is discussed on the various media platforms like the fight against galamsey. The selection of the MCE nominee has got both party folks and the hoi polloi talking.

They are talking because of the appointment of one Hajia Ayishetu Seidu by his Excellency of the republic as the municipal chief executive. In their own thought, the president broke a solemn promise of rewarding loyalty. They said Hajia was yelling kukurudu at Accra in the eyes of his Excellency and not in the face of the party folks in savelugu. They see her as a stranger who cannot lead natives.

The savelugu municipality is an amalgamation of Savelugu district and the Nanton constituency. The former was for the first time won by the NPP in the 2016 elections. But trust me, it wasnt because the electorates were in love with NPP that much but it was due to the internal wrangling in the NDC that inured to the benefit of the member of parliament. Murtala Mohammed also unfortunately loss Nanton to the NPP.

This again was not a case of NPP being dominant but just because of the wind of change that was blowing and miraculously uprooting big trees coupled with the temperament of the aforementioned personality towards his constituents, it is undeniable fact he shot himself in the foot with his attitude. This notwithstanding, One thing is clear, the savelugu seat has lost one foot already and the Nanton seat is shaking like a building that is about experiencing earthquake. You may disagree with me. Thats your inalienable right!

Let me now walk you through the substantive matter. I will look at the matter from both the blunder of the one who has the power to designate and the designee. The president in his holy book promised to give paltry 30% of the appointments to women. He tried but he failed. You may confirm with google. Because of the promise, there was an attempt to really live up to expectation.

Women formed part of the historic 110 army of ministers but a lot couldnt make it but he was still determined to appoint them otherwhere come what may. Hajia Ayishetu was one of those he promised to name ministers but ended up disappointing, this I heavily suspect. Politicians should not set up their colleagues for humiliation and maltreatment.

The woman is dyed-in-the-wool party person, her monetary contributions to the change agenda in the 2016 elections can confirm this. Unfortunately, the foot soldier in the savelugu municipality didnt know that there was one Hajia who does her politics at the national level. Let me put the blame squarely on the president because he shouldnt have appointed someone who is a stranger to even the constituency secretary.

When you appoint like he did, it generates protest with dominion effect. At least, appoint someone who was on the campaign trail with the constituency executives shouting free shs was possible, one village, one dam was doable and one district, one factory was feasible.

Hajia Ayishetu also deserve chunk of the blame. She knew she was from Savelugu but she never decentralized her cash and her campaign efforts as a politician. How then can she reap what she didnt sow? I think this is an opportunity for any politician who specialized in doing politics only at the national level to learn. Go home to your place of birth.

You were not born in Ga Mantses Land. You make up the population of the city because of urbanization, so visit home periodically! Her appointment was fiercely resisted from day one but she was confirmed by the apparent NDC assembly members. I thought the confirmation would have ended the bad blood between the nominee and the party people but it didnt, in fact, it couldnt. I will advise the nominee to give out the job back to the owner for onward giving to the peoples choice. If she doesnt, the long term effect of that may be unbearable especially the fact that she is a woman with fragile heart.

Let us be worried for the first time in Akufo-Addo Ghana that, civilians were emboldened to lock up policemen and our professional policemen as usually couldnt effect any arrest. What shall it profit an MCE to be escorted to work amidst heavy security? For how long can that continue and when is she winning the trust and sympathy of the people?

Thats my conundrum! What about the cedis she contributed, dont I want her to feel some of the one million dollar? Of course I do but life is too precious to be sacrificed in chasing common fund. Left to me alone, there is more to life than dollars. The signal being sent to the president is univocal, they wont accept her today needless to think of working with her tomorrow. The president should appoint her a position where antipathy and bitterness will not welcome her.

Well, let me concentrate on writing my industrial attachment report and stop writing on politics.

The writer is a student studying BSc computing-with-accounting at UDS, Navrongo campus.

Writers email: [email protected]
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is working with stakeholders to have the ban on vegetable exports to the European Union (EU) lifted in the next three months.

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr Afriyie Akoto, gave the assurance recently.

The ban was imposed on some vegetables exported to the EU as a result of the failure of exporters to meet international quality standards.

The ban was imposed by the food and veterinary Office of the European Commission for some vegetables mainly pepper, eggplant, and gourds.

This was attributed to the presence of harmful organisms in exported produce.

The ban was expected to end on December 2016 but has been extended to December 2017.

However, a team from the EU is due to visit the country in September for an assessment towards a possible review of the ban, and Dr Akoto Afriyie is confident the country will pass the test for the ban to be lifted.

He said, The European Union has come up with certain conditions based on which the ban will be lifted. So we are making sure that the actions will be taken. In addition to that, we are taking steps to comply with the EU regulations and also trying to restructure our own internal arrangements, as well as getting the right personnel manning activities at the ports of entry and in the various regions. So I'm very confident that with all the work we've done so far in collaboration with the stakeholders, we are prepared now to receive the delegation from the EU to audit in September so that the ban can be lifted and enable business to go on.

Dr Afriyie Akoto also blamed the ban on the negligence of some stakeholders and advised that all play must their respective roles to reverse the ban.

 Myjoyonline
This year's maiden UK-Ghana Trade & Investment Forum comes off in London between June 27 and June 28.

The event, billed to further strengthen the business relationships between Ghana and the UK, would be hosted by the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) in conjunction with Developing Markets Association.

The two-day event would provide a platform for UKGCC and its members to take advantage of new opportunities within the trade sector and also afford participants the opportunity to engage with high-ranking Ghanaian government officials, policy-shapers and potential commercial partners.

Participants would be briefed on the economic and political prospects for Ghana and the UK respectively, followed by plenary sessions focused on the key economic sectors that government is working to market.

Yoofi Grant, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), is billed to give a keynote address at the event.

Other speakers and panelists include CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Dr. Kofi Koduah Sarpong, Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Kwamina Yeda Addison, and Minister for Railway Development, Joe Ghartey.

According to Mr. Grant, The investment and trade forum will leverage on the long-standing experience and traditional business relationships that exist between the UK and Ghana. But more importantly, it will also give a platform to further consolidate new opportunities, which have opened up both in Ghana and the UK for enhanced trade and investment.

Ghana is ready and open for business and we are very excited about it, he added.

Tony Burkson, CEO of UKGCC, is equally enthused about forum and the potential for the bilateral trade relationship of the future.

During my time here in Ghana, I have seen the immense opportunities for bilateral trade with the UK. I am very much looking forward to the forum and the initiatives being brought to fruition.

Founded in 2016, the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) was launched to facilitate and promote the ever-increasing need for collaboration between SMEs and large multinational corporations operating in the UK and Ghana.
If you want your wife to be a woman who doesnt keep so many friends, a woman who makes sure the house is in order, a woman who makes sure that you are well fed, one responsive to your sexual needs and naughty in bed when need be: then you simply want a Jennifer Lomotey for a wife

Yes, Jennifer Lomotey is the dream wife of many men because she ticks most of the boxes in qualities men want from their wives.

Lack of sexual gratification in marriages is a major cause of cheating and divorce all over the world. As a society, we have negated sex so much so that it is even deemed dirty for a woman to be good in sex. In principle and as a Christian, I am against every form of sex outside marriage: however, I believe there is no limitation on a husband and wife as far as sex is concerned.

In our society, women cant ask for the kind of sex they want from their husbands without fear of being judged. Men on the other hand tend to look outside for that wild sex which side-chicks dont think twice to offer but wives remain reluctant to give because the very husband who seeks it will start asking questions like: where did she learn it, has she done it with someone else and what have you.

In marriage, a husband and a wife have total access to their bodies and can enjoy any style of sex they desire. With a Jennifer Lomotey for a wife, it will be difficult for a sane minded man to look outside his marriage. This is not an excuse for cheaters, people cheat largely because they want to but some things added to marriage will reduce it drastically.

This is why Kurl Songs featured Sarkodie to dedicated an entire song to this wonderful woman who knows what it means to be a wife and keep a home

I had no knowledge of the song Jennifer Lomotey until I read an article on City Online condemning the part of the song that has motivated the youth of Krobo with support from their former MP and Chief to seek pacification to the tune of Two million Ghana Cedis from Sarkodie.

Apparently, it was out a few days before City Online published the article to draw the attention of Ghanaians to the crime committed by Sarkodie. It didnt end there; they were the first media house to contact the chief and people of krobo to react to the issue at a time when most of the people who reacted knew not a word from the song. What was the motive for inciting this tribal sentiment?

To form an independent opinion, I downloaded the song and listened over and over again. Without telling my wife the hullaballoo about the song, I asked her to do same and let me know how shed feel if I described her in that manner and she was of the view that it is exactly what a wife should be.

In my estimation, it is one of the creative and well produced songs in the year so far. Sadly, that isnt what has dominated the airwaves; just a line that people deem controversial has managed to overshadow the good work done in the typical Ghanaian pull him down fashion.

This is a great work by a new kid on the block- Kurl Songs- which should shoot him to fame but our energy has been directed at bringing down the one on top- Sark.

If you want to be loved and have no issues in this country, keep being mediocre and dont ever think of being a Daddy Lumba, DKB, Asamoah Gyan or Obaapa Christy. We are just too effective at bringing down our own and elevating products from other countries. This is not to say the Krobos hate Sarkodie, the simple truth is that they have been incited by people who should know better and they in turn are taking advantage of the situation to make a point that they have not been cursed.

Maybe Sarkodie could have chosen another word to project the sexiness of Jennifer Lomotey to the extent he wanted to without reminding us of the fabricated piece of history about the Krobos which was handed down to us and told before he was born.

The supposed curses of the Krobos by Okomfo Anokye, majority of whose stories like that of Asebu Amenfi of Fantes and Togbe Tsali of Ewes are to me more fictitious than historical occurrence has been with us since independence.

If Sarkodies rap was in English, he wouldnt have used prostitute in place of adwaman to describe Jennifer Lomotey, it would have contradicted his prior description of the woman who had come in and made his life better at all fronts than his previous materialistic wife who made his life a mess

In the Twi Language, the word adwaman is used on many occasions and light-heartedly so to mean naughty, sexy and romantic because it is difficult finding a common Twi word to describe sexiness without writing a whole essay . This is why it will be most unfair to take the adwaman in the Jennifer Lomotey song to mean prostitute because it doesnt even fit the description of the woman presented to us in the song.

We have all used mad and crazy without implying lunacy or used the word sick without implying that someone is ill or physically unwell. We have in the spirit of friendliness called friends adwaman without implying that they are prostitutes

Even in this case, Sarkodie limited his description to the only woman the song was intended to praise- Jennifer Lomotey and it was in no way tribally demeaning or a general description of Krobo women like we are being forced to believe or accept

When I say a Krobo woman with big legs, blessed by God, I am in no way suggesting that all Krobo women have been blessed by God with big legs. This credit was meant for one Krobo woman. So why are people suggesting that by saying Komfo Anokye has cursed Jennifer Lomotey, the Krobo woman with beads on her waist with sexiness, all Krobo women have been slandered?

Granted, the Krobo women are rumoured to have been cursed by Komfo Anokye to be promiscuous but it remains a rumour and untrue in the minds of right thinking members of society. This song does not in any way enforce or validate this figment.

Majority of Ghanaians dont believe it because in reality, promiscuous living cuts across every tribe in Ghana and not the preserve of Krobo women. In every society, there are decent women and indecent women and the people of Krobo are not any different.

Jennifer Lomotey though isnt an example of a promiscuous woman, she is the complete wife. Being sexy and romantic isnt promiscuous.

If all Krobo women are simple, content, take good care of their husbands, live life largely independent from negative influence of friends and naughty to their husbands, then Komfo Anokye's curse, however untrue as it is did them a world of good because most men love such wives and marriages thrive when these qualities are at play.

In fact, marriages are suffering because women like Jennifer Lomotey are rare to find

I think it is time to move on and appreciate the man Kurl Songs for a wonderful song because hard work deserves to be rewarded and more so when it comes from a young man who has found his breakthrough in an industry that disappoints majority and rewards just a fraction.

Shame on all those inciting the Krobo Youth; no Ghanaian believes that they have been cursed by Komfo Anokye. Maybe it was made up because people were amazed at their sexiness. If sexiness is a quality of the Krobo women, then it is a very good to have a Krobo woman for a wife.

Sarkodie is blessed to me married to a Krobo woman.

What the leaders should do instead of leading an unnecessary campaign against a harmless song in the face of many social issues bedevilling the youth in Krobo is to channel that energy to helping the beautiful and sexy Krobo women to make the right choices in life, emulate Jennifer Lomotey and they will be the envy of all women. It is not a crime to be beautiful and sexy; the crime is the abuse of these qualities.

Society should be developed by giving people direction on how to make the most of every quality gifted them by God.

Jennifer Lomotey is a woman who is using her qualities to build a wonderful home and an enviable marriage.

Jennifer Lomotey will be proud of how she was described in the song.

Marriages are collapsing because her kind is hard to come by.

Isaac Kyei Andoh

[email protected]
ExLA Group Gender Programme (EGGP) has learned of a violent incidence that has occurred at the University of Ghana, Legon in which a young lady was stabbed by a gentleman supposed to be her boyfriend. According to reports, the lady in question sustained a deep cut in her neck after her lover attacked her with a broken ceramic object upon suspicion that she was cheating on him. The victim however survived the incidence and is reported to be responding to treatment at the University of Ghana Hospital, Legon.

EGGP would like to express our outrage and condemn the act outright. We believe that such acts of violence against women must not be entertained in the country under no circumstance not even with consent. It is against the dignity and basic rights of women to suffer such acts of physical assault.

This case constitutes a clear case of domestic violence where the victim and the culprit are in an actual or perceived romantic, intimate, or cordial relationship not necessarily including a sexual relationship. The Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732) which is also an act under the Criminal Code 1960 (Act 29) which constitutes a threat or harm to a person under that Act, prohibits any individual in any such relationships as stated above from engaging in any act of domestic violence. We therefore call on law enforcement agencies to take the necessary actions to sanction the culprit and provide the necessary support and protection for the victim.

In the same vein we also call on the authorities of the University of Ghana, Legon to beef up the security of the noble institution and secure the future of our women for a brighter future.

We believe that romantic relationships are driven by consent and at every point in time; the parties involved must engage each other under such provisions as far as the law permits. Domestic violence has no place in the development of a nation and it is about time, state institutions, law enforcement agencies, Civil Society Organisations and the media took bold steps to curb the menace.
Maiduguri (Nigeria) (AFP) - At least 16 people died in a double suicide bombing near a large camp for people made homeless by years of Boko Haram violence, Nigeria's emergency services and locals said Monday.

It was the biggest in a series of weekend attacks.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said the attack took place at about 8:45 pm (1945 GMT) on Sunday close to the Dalori camp in Kofa village, near the Borno state capital Maiduguri.

Regional NEMA spokesman Abdulkadir Ibrahim said a first attack by two female suicide bombers had been thwarted by security personnel who stopped them getting into the camp.

"Two other female suicide bombers also detonated their explosives at the adjoining Dalori Kofa village, where they killed 16 people," he said in a statement.

Earlier tolls given by local people said at least 12 or 13 people had been killed but Abdulkadir said three of the injured had since died of their wounds.

"The 16 does not include the bombers," he told AFP.

Dalori is about 10 kilometres (six miles) southeast of Maiduguri and is one of the largest camps for internally displaced people (IDP) in the remote region.

There are nearly 50,000 people in the two Dalori camps, with Dalori 1 housing some 35,000 and Dalori 2, which was targeted in the bombings, sheltering around 10,000.

Boko Haram has previously tried to target the camp: at least 85 people were killed in January last year when insurgents rampaged through communities near Dalori.

A bloody weekend

The latest attack is the most deadly in Nigeria since June 8, when 11 people were killed in a rare combined gun and suicide attack in the Jiddari Polo area of Maiduguri.

The attack targeted Dalori Kofa village in northeast Nigeria which adjoins a camp for thousands of people displaced by Boko Haram violence

Also at the weekend, Boko Haram attacked Gumsuri village, 20 kilometres from Chibok, killing five people late on Saturday, locals said.

But they were fought off by local vigilantes who engaged them in a gunbattle.

"The vigilantes got the upper hand. They killed 12 attackers and apprehended six others," said Bitrus Haruna, a vigilante from Chibok, whose account was corroborated by a community leader from the town.

"The Boko Haram gunmen were not lucky. They were confronted by the gallant vigilantes who killed 12 of the attackers and arrested six of them."

Then on Sunday, Boko Haram jihadists killed three soldiers in an ambush near Wajirko village, 150 kilometres (90 miles) from Maiduguri, a local vigilante said.

Last weekend, gunmen killed eight members of a civilian militia force assisting the military in the Konduga area not far from the Dalori camp.

The spate of bombings underlines the threat still posed by the jihadists, despite official claims they are a spent force.

Since the start of Boko Harm's uprising in 2009, at least 20,000 people have been killed since and more than 2.6 million made homeless, many of whom are facing severe food shortages or starvation.
Mogadishu (AFP) - A Somali military court sentenced a naval officer to death Monday for shooting dead the minister of public works in what the defense argued was an accident.

A young minister seen as an inspiration to many in the conflict-torn nation, Abbas Abdullahi Siraji, 31, was killed last month when armed guards shot at his vehicle outside the presidential palace.

The naval officer, Ahmed Abdullahi Abdi, 29, a bodyguard to the auditor-general -- who was fired after the incident -- was arrested and charged with the minister's murder.

"After considering the evidence brought in front of the court, including the testimonies of the witnesses, pictures of the vehicles used, evaluations of the crime scene and the gun used for the murder, the court is convinced that the accused is guilty as charged," said Colonel Hassan Ali Nur Shute, head of the military court.

"The court sentenced him to the death penalty for the killing of Abas Abdullahi Siraji."

The verdict was handed down after only three court appearances, with government under pressure to bring a culprit to book.

The defense had argued that the accused opened fire when a vehicle carrying Siraji drove up behind that of the auditor-general, seeing it as suspicious in a country that faces regular such attacks by Shabaab Islamists.

Many government officials, wealthy individuals and foreigners drive around Mogadishu with squads of armed bodyguards who are frequently nervy and trigger-happy. Many civilians have been killed in similar shootings.

Shabaab militants linked to Al-Qaeda carry out regular bombings and assassinations targeting government officials, and it is rare for a government minister to drive himself, making mistaken identity a strong possibility.

Somalia still actively carries out the death penalty by squad shooting.
Champions Trophy 2017 Final: India captain Virat Kohli was dropped by Azhar Ali on five but he failed to capitalise on the life and got caught out the very next ball instead.

By Reuters: Following are five key moments that helped Pakistan win the Champions Trophy for the first time with a crushing 180-run victory over holders India at The Oval on Sunday.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed loses toss:

India have done well chasing down targets so captain Virat Kohli opted to put his rivals in to bat first.

It proved to be a good toss to lose as Sarfraz said he would also have elected to field if he had won it.

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"We wanted to bowl first. But the toss is out of our control. Hopefully, we can post more than 300," Sarfraz said.

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman is caught by Mahendra Singh Dhoni for three - off a no ball:

With his bat tucked under his arm, Fakhar begins the long walk back to the pavilion as the Indians celebrate grabbing their first wicket with only four Pakistan runs on the board.

The celebrations swiftly change direction, however, when replays on the big scoreboard show that Jasprit Bumrah had bowled a no ball and Fakhar is called back to the crease.

It proved to be a costly no ball as Fakhar goes on to score his first international century before falling for 114.

Kohli fails to capitalise on a dropped catch on five:

The Indian captain had come into the match with an astonishing batting average of 253 runs in this year's tournament, having been dismissed only once in four matches.

So when he was dropped by Azhar Ali in the slips off Mohammad Amir in the third over, huge cheers erupted around the arena. Pakistan made sure it did not turn out to be a costly mistake, though, as Amir dismissed him next ball.

His departure proved to be a bad omen for the Indians as the only other time he had been dismissed in this year's Champions Trophy - against Sri Lanka in the group stage - the holders also lost the match.

Amir back in the team after missing semi-final with back injury:

Amir, once vilified for his role in the 2010 Pakistan spot-fixing scandal which led to him serving a prison term in London, was at his brilliant best when he produced a devastating opening spell.

He removed India's top three batsmen - Rohit Sharma (0), Shikhar Dhawan (21) and Kohli (5).

After leaving India reeling on six for two following the dismissals of Sharma and Kohli, Amir's figures read 1.4 overs, four runs, two wickets.

His transformation into a hero was complete as his final tally was six overs, two maidens, 16 runs and three wickets.

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Hardik Pandya, India's last hope, run out for 76 after showering the ground with sixes:

Pandya came to the crease with India teetering on 54 for five after Yuvraj Singh and former captain Dhoni departed in quick succession.

He raised hopes of pulling off a one-man Indian Houdini act as he hit three successive sixes to reach his half century. But just when it seemed that he was blazing towards a first international century, he was run out after a mix-up with Ravindra Jadeja.

India still had three wickets in hand but the deafening cheers from the Pakistan fans made clear that the end was nigh.

India lost their last four wickets for the addition of only six runs.

--- ENDS ---
Accra, 19th June 2017: The Local Content Unit in the Petroleum Directorate of the Ministry of Energy will be visiting 12 Senior High Schools (SHS) in the Western, Central and Volta Regions from today, June 19, 2017 to sensitize students on the fundamentals of Ghanas Energy sector with key focus on the petroleum industry.

The team will also provide students with career guidance and employment opportunities in the industry.

This is part of the Ministrys Gender Mainstreaming in the Energy Sector Project which is aimed at increasing female participation in Ghanas Energy Sector.

The first phase of the project focuses on a sensitization and career guidance programme in the Petroleum and Power sector at Senior High Schools across the country.

The sensitization programme takes the form of forums across selected Senior High Schools (SHS) preferably female SHS in the 10 Regions.

This is meant to whip up enthusiasm of female students and encourage them to choose courses relevant to the industry at the tertiary level.

To ensure a very comprehensive exercise, the selected SHS across all the 10 regions of the country have been grouped into four zones and a minimum of 10 schools are expected to be visited in each region. The zone groupings for the 10 regions are as follows:

Zone 1-Ashanti & Brong Ahafo Regions Zone 2- Central & Western Regions Zone 3- Northern , Upper West & Upper East Regions Zone 4- Greater Accra, Volta & Eastern Regions

The team is scheduled to visit the following schools this month:
Bamako (AFP) - Two civilians killed in an assault this weekend on a popular tourist resort near the Mali capital, Bamako, worked for the European Union, the bloc's foreign affairs chief said Monday.

Five suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed at the scene, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

He said 36 mostly French and Malian hostages were freed following the incident at the Kangaba Le Campement resort on Sunday afternoon.

Speaking in Luxembourg, EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said the two EU staff victims were a Malian woman and a Portuguese man.

Around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the ecolodge Monday, Traore added, continuing investigations at a destination known for its popularity with expatriates on weekends.

Among them were members of the European Union's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country, which sped up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when shooting began, according to witnesses.

Some of the assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" -- Arabic for 'God is greatest' -- other witnesses interviewed by AFP said. So far, no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Meanwhile a Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

"When I saw the terrorists, I immediately showed clients an opening where they could hide themselves," said Lancina Traore, describing the vast site where the lodge is situated.

US warning

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel.

That attack, which killed 20 people, caused the government to call a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Among those saved Sunday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to Mali's security ministry.

The French foreign ministry said it was still verifying the presence of its nationals at the site with one Frenchman missing.

Residents were first alerted to the attack on the Kangaba tourist resort near the Malian capital Bamako when they heard gunshots and saw smoke billowing into the air

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners in Bamako.

Back in January, the Kangaba's owner, Herve Depardieu, had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

Sunday's attack is the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

But in a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday morning in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

New anti-terror force

In 2012 Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

Since then, jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces still stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels that aimed to tackle some of the grievances held by separatists in the north.

Malian special forces worked with their French counterparts to halt the attack on the resort which lies just east of the capital Bamako

Despite the presence of the 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission and French troops serving in a separate counter-terrorism force operating across the Sahel region, instability is growing.

France is pressing the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution to fund and support a new African anti-jihadist force in the Sahel, comprising troops from Mali, Niger, Chad, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.

But Washington says the resolution is too vague. As the leading financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, it also wants to tighten spending.

Mogherini, who has promised 50 million euros to back the new force, said Monday that Europeans and Africans were "brothers and sisters" in the mutual fight against terror.

Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who heads the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, recently warned that "terrorists" are extending their reach in the region, notably in central Mali.
Paris (AFP) - A lawyer for the free-spending son of Equatorial Guinea's longtime leader on Monday called for a new postponement of his high-profile Paris trial for corruption.

As Teodorin Obiang's trial resumed after a six-month pause, his lawyer Emmanuel Marsigny requested a fresh delay pending the outcome of an appeal to the International Court of Justice to scrap the proceedings.

The tiny oil- and timber-rich west African nation questions France's right to put the president's son and current vice-president on trial, saying it violates his diplomatic immunity.

The 47-year-old, known for his taste for supercars, luxury homes and bespoke suits, is charged with plundering Equatorial Guinea's coffers to fund his jetset lifestyle in France.

He is suspected of using more than 100 million euros ($112 million) of state money -- proceeds of corruption and embezzlement, prosecutors allege -- to buy a six-storey mansion on Avenue Foch, one of the swankiest streets in Paris, as well as a collection of Italian supercars.

Obiang, who once again did not appear in court, denies the charges, saying the money came from legitimate sources.

When hearings began six months ago, the trial was postponed to give the defence more time to prepare its case.

Paris luxury, poverty at home

Speaking on Monday, Marsigny said: "This trial cannot take place."

Teodorin Obiang is accused of using the proceeds of corruption and embezzlement to buy a six-storey mansion on Avenue Foch, one of the swankiest streets in Paris which leads to the Arc de Triomphe

In 2012, French authorities swooped on the Avenue Foch mansion, seizing it along with a fleet of luxury cars including two Bugatti Veyrons and a Rolls-Royce Phantom.

But in December, the ICJ -- the UN's top court -- ordered France to "take all measures at its disposal" to ensure that the mansion, which Equatorial Guinea has described as a diplomatic mission, be treated the same as all other diplomatic locations under the Geneva Convention.

France disputes that claim.

If convicted on the charges of corruption, embezzlement, misuse of public funds and breach of trust, Obiang faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a fine of up to 50 million euros.

The trial, scheduled to close July 6, is the first arising from an unprecedented investigation into the French assets of a trio of African leaders accused of leading a life of luxury abroad while their citizens live in poverty.

It sets a precedent for France which has long turned a blind eye to African dictators parking ill-gotten gains in Parisian real estate and luxury products.
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Accra, June 19, GNA- The German Ambassador, Mr Christoph Retzlaff says Germany is looking forward to partnering with Ghana to bring more solar power systems under a renewable energy programme.

The systems he said would be sent into remote parts of the country that have no access to the national electricity grid.

Speaking to the GNA on the sideline of a cocktail he hosted for three German Members of Parliament on a visit to the country, the Ambassador explained that as Ghana continued to be a shining example in Africa, it had been selected by Germany, as part of three countries, to sign a bilateral agreement that would help source funds for her renewable energy sector and for vocational training.

He said since renewable energy played critical role in climate mitigation, the partnership between the two countries would enable Germany to help Ghana in her climate mitigation plans.

The Ambassador said because of Ghana's huge potential with lots of sunshine everywhere, 'we could find lots of solutions here, especially in the remote areas where there are no accesses to conservative energy and we can find small decent solutions for farmers in little towns by using solar energy'.

'We have the technology, we have the knowledge and we have the experts, we can finally settle that we will walk this path', Mr Retzlaff told the GNA in an interview in Accra.

The agreement signed also with Tunisia and Cote d'Ivoire fall under a compact initiative that would bring additional 100 million euros each year to the country to be used mainly for projects in the renewable energy sector and in vocational training.

Commenting further on the visit by the German MPS, Mr Retzlaff said it was the first time in many years that a group from the German Parliament was visiting Ghana and so the cocktail was being organized to enable the MPs meet and interact with the diverse Ghanaian society from all walks of life.

Among the dignitaries that attended the cocktail included; Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Freda Opare Prempeh, Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, Professor Emmanuel Asante, Chairman of the National Peace Council, as well as other MPs , politicians, business people, media personnel, some artists and members of civil society.

Mr Charles M Huber, Chairman of the Parliamentary group for English and Portuguese-speaking States of West- and Central Africa, led the delegation that included Ms Walter-Rosenheimer Beate, Vice-chairman of the Parliamentary group and Professor Dr Egon JAttner, Member of the Parliamentary group.

As part of the two day visit, the three MPS who had since left the country, met with the Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Professor Michael Aaron Ocquaye and the Majority and Minority leaders of Parliament, Mr Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu and Mr Haruna Iddrisu, respectively.

The three also toured the Jamestown, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, Kofi Annan ICT Centre (KAITC) in Accra, and the Shai Hills and Akosombo Dam.

GNA

By Lydia Asamoah, GNA
Today, Ghana celebrates the swearing in of a new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana. She is the Republics second female Chief Justice, following the outgone Georgina Wood CJ (Mrs).

Noble Law Group wishes to congratulate Her Ladyship Sophia A.B. Akuffo on her appointment and confirmation as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Ghana.

Her Ladyship has served on the Bench with distinction and her intellect has gained resounding respect; from her contributions to the law in Ghana as well as from her time serving on the Governing Committee of the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute,the Alternative Dispute Resolution Task Force, and the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights.

Noble Law Group looks forward to working with Her Ladyship Sophia Akuffo C.J. on new and existing initiatives to reform and improve the delivery of justice in Ghana.

The Group is confident that under the steady hand of Her Ladyship, the judiciary will continue to benefit from strong, competent and effective leadership. Congratulations to you, Chief Justice Akuffo.

Signed,

The Members of Noble Law Group
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo says his government will not serve as a buffer for supporters of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) who fall foul of the law.

He said he will not falter to ensure that the law of the country is applied to the letter without fear or favour.

At the swearing-in ceremony of the new Chief Justice, Sophia Akuffo at the State House in Accra Monday, the President registered his disapproval of clashes last Thursday between some NPP youth and police in Savelugu.

Related Article: Savelugu clashes: Police, military intervention caused escalation of hostilities  MP

Some NPP executives reportedly stormed the premises of the Savelugu-Nanton Municipal Assembly to prevent the newly approved Municipal Chief Executive for the area, Hajia Ayishetu Seidu from entering her office.

Wielding machetes and clubs, the youth were said to have made their way to the office of the MCE when they were stopped by some two policemen who were guarding the entrance.

Joy News Northern Regional Correspondent, Hashmin Mohammed reported the police officers tried to stop the men but sensing danger, they called for reinforcement.

When the contingent of police and military personnel arrived on the scene, the youth reportedly pelted stones at them while they fired warning shots to disperse the crowd.

The Savelugu MP, Abdul Samed Gunu told Joy News last week the security agencies in the area are to blame for the clashes.

The lawmaker said the police rudely disrupted a meeting held to address the misunderstanding between the NPP executives and the newly approved MCE.

But the President Akufo-Addo has condemned the clashes, describing it as an unacceptable act.

He sent a strong message to supporters of the NPP, they will find no shield in his government if they take the law into their own hands.

The appointment of Hajia Seidu has been met with animosity since it was announced by the President last month.

Some youth in the area have said the appointee played no role in the struggle to bring the NPP into power.

But after an election to confirm her appointment, the appointee polled 50 out of the total 64 votes cast.

The President said his government will not idle by while some groups try to depose people who have been appointed in line with the dictates of the 1992 Constitution.

I urge the police to do everything in their power to bring to book all those who fall foul of the law, the President said.

The skirmishes at Savelugu comes months after NPP vigilante group, Delta Force stormed a Kumasi Circuit to free some 13 of their members who were standing trial for assaulting the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, George Agyei in April.

The President at the Peduasi Lodge in the Eastern Regional town of Aburi talked tough and promised his government's preparedness to ensure that the perpetrators were brought to book.

He said he will not waiver" to serve Ghanaians under the "condidtion of rule of law" but months later, there have been repeated attacks across the country following announcement of the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).

Watch video below:



Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Austin Brakopowers | [email protected] | Instagram: @realbrakopowers
The Supreme Court has granted an order imposing a charge on any and all shares held by businessman Alfred Agbesi Woyome in some private companies in which he has beneficial interests.

The order was granted upon an application filed by Chief State Attorney, Mrs Stella Badu of the Civil Division of the Attorney-Generals Office on May 17, 2017.

This is part of governments efforts to retrieve 51.2 million cedis wrongfully paid to the National Democratic Congress financier which the Supreme Court in a 2014 judgment ordered should be paid back to the state.

Since then, the state has struggled to enforce the judgment and retrieve the colossal amount.

In the latest judgment delivered on June 18, 2017, Justice Anthony Alfred Benin, ordered that all shares held by Mr. Woyome in some 11 companies should be charged temporarily.

Some of the companies are Anator Holdings Company Ltd, AAW Management Consulting Services Ltd, Green Townships Security Services Company Ltd., Anator Construction Company Ltd., Woyome Brothers International Ltd., Stewise Anator Company Ltd., and Stweise Shopping Company Ltd.

Mr. Woyome is expected to appear before the Court on Thursday, June 29, 2017 to show cause why [the] charging order should not be made absolute.

Mr. Woyome is also to be orally examined in respect of the matter.

The Supreme Court granted an ex parte motion filed by Assistant State Attorney at the Attorney-Generals Department, Victoria Adotey praying the court to allow for oral examination of Mr. Woyome.

A similar order was late last year granted former Attorney-General, Martin Amidu to orally examine the businessman but that case was later withdrawn.

The A-Gs department will be seeking answers in respect of four issues: Whether there are any debts owing to Mr. Woyome; Whether he has any property for satisfying the judgment of the Court dated 29 July 2014; Whether he has any means of satisfying the judgment of the court; and the manner he used the money paid to him by the Republic.

Let the judgment/debtor, Alfred Agbesi Woyome be served with a copy of the Order as drawn up with a hearing notice to appear before this court on Thursday, 29th June 2017 to be examined the Court said.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com
Bamako (AFP) - Three foreigners and a Malian civilian and soldier were killed in an jihadist assault on a popular tourist resort near Mali's capital, the country's security minister said Monday.

Salif Traore said a Chinese man, a Portuguese man, a Gabonese national and a Malian were killed when gunmen fired on guests at the Kangaba Le Campement resort to the east of Bamako on Sunday.

It was the latest in a series of high-profile assaults in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast, but no-one has yet claimed responsibility.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said two EU staff were among the victims, whom she described as a Malian woman and a Portuguese man.

At least four suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed at the scene, Traore told AFP.

He said 36 hostages, mostly French and Malian, were freed, but around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the eco-lodge Monday.

Kangaba is known for its popularity with expatriates. On Sunday, it hosted members of the EU's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country.

Witnesses said EU and UN staff raised the alert to speed up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when the shooting began.

Some assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest), other witnesses interviewed by AFP said.

A Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

The Kangaba Le Campement resort targeted in a suspected jihadist attack lies to the east of Bamako

"When I saw the terrorists, I immediately showed clients an opening where they could hide themselves," said Lancina Traore.

Among those saved Sunday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to the security ministry.

US warning

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako.

That siege, which led to the death of 20 people, led to the government imposing a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners.

In January, Kangaba's owner Herve Depardieu had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

Residents were first alerted to the attack on the Kangaba tourist resort near the Malian capital Bamako when they heard gunshots and saw smoke billowing into the air

In a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

New anti-terror force

In 2012, Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

Since then, jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels that aimed to tackle some of the grievances held by separatists in the north.

Despite the presence of the 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission and French troops serving in a separate counter-terrorism force operating across the Sahel region, instability is growing.

France is pressing the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution to fund and support a new African anti-jihadist force in the Sahel, comprising troops from Mali, Niger, Chad, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.

But Washington says the resolution is too vague. As the leading financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, it also wants to tighten spending.

Malian special forces worked with their French counterparts to halt the attack on the resort which lies just east of the capital Bamako

Mogherini, who has promised 50 million euros ($56 million) to back the new force, said Monday that Europeans and Africans were "brothers and sisters" in the fight against terror.

Mahamat Saleh Annadif, who heads the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali, recently warned that "terrorists" are extending their reach in the region, notably in the centre of Mali.
Government has put on hold, the implementation of the law that mandates vehicle owners to pay an annual mandatory towing levy.

Passed in 2012, the LI 2180 was given five years fallow period after which it would jump to life in 2017. With just two weeks to its implementation, the new regulation has been met with public disapproval.

Some have questioned the basis for which the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) awarded the contract to the Road Safety Management Limited (RSML) a subsidiary of the Jospong Group owned by Businessman Joseph Siaw Agyapong.

Fees per year for both commercial and non-commercial vehicles, depending on tonnage, range from GHS20 to GHS200.

Questions relating to whether the payments will be tied to a number of vehicles towed and how the activities of the towing services are going to be monitored are yet to be answered.

Last week Chief Policy Analyst at the Ghana Institute of Public Policy Options (GIPPO) Dr. Charles Wereko-Brobby called on the president, Nana Akufo-Addo to immediately halt the implementation of the policy until thorough public awareness is done.

But Deputy Transport Minister, Daniel Nii Kwatei Titus-Glover says the government has directed the NRSC to suspend the policy.

Mr. Titus-Glover disclosed to Kojo Asare Baffuor Acheampong (KABA) on the Ekosii SEn programme on Asempa FM Monday, June 19, 2017, the decision is to allow stakeholder engagements to address all the issues being raised regarding the policy.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Jerry Tsatro Mordy | Email: [email protected], Twitter: @jerrymordy
GOLO (Sudan) (AFP) - The top US envoy in Sudan pushed Monday for more access to deliver humanitarian aid to Golo as he visited the former rebel stronghold in war-torn Darfur under tight security.

US charge d'affaires Steven Koutsis was in Golo as part of a tour to assess the security situation in Darfur as the United Nations prepares to downsize its 17,000-strong peacekeeping force.

Koutsis' visit to the town surrounded by the thickly forested mountains of Jebel Marra comes weeks before President Donald Trump's administration decides whether to permanently lift a two-decades old US trade embargo on Sudan.

"Golo is a strategic area for providing humanitarian assistance," he told officials and security officers he met in a tightly secured building in Golo, an AFP correspondent reported from the venue.

Khartoum restricts the access of international media to Darfur and particularly to Jebel Marra, which foreign media have been unable to visit for years.

"That is why we are here to understand better what is needed to bring more assistance here."

Aid workers have complained that delivering aid to Golo and other parts of Jebel Marra has been extremely difficult given the mountainous terrain and the severe restrictions imposed by the Sudanese authorities.

Although a relative calm prevails in several parts of Darfur, Jebel Marra saw pitched battles last year between government forces and the rebel Sudan Liberation Army - Abdul Wahid (SLA/AW) group, which Khartoum accuses of ambushing military convoys and attacking civilians.

In September, Amnesty International accused Sudanese forces of carrying out chemical attacks during military operation against the rebel group.

'Big assistance'

A UN peacekeeper stands guard as crowds of children and villagers gather to welcome Steven Koutsis, the top US envoy in Sudan, in the war-torn town of Golo on June 19, 2017

Sudanese officials including President Omar al-Bashir have denied these charges.

Tens of thousands of people were displaced in Jebel Marra in last year's fighting, the United Nations says.

Deadly conflict broke out in Darfur in 2003 when ethnic minority groups took up arms against Bashir's Arab-dominated government, which launched a brutal counter-insurgency.

At least 300,000 people have since been killed and 2.5 million displaced in Darfur, the UN says.

Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court on alleged war crimes and genocide charges related to Darfur, which he denies.

On Monday, Koutsis also pushed for a strong presence of UN peacekeeping forces in Golo and other parts of Jebel Marra -- an area where UN forces are still not deployed.

He said that although UNAMID is expected to be restructured, its forces need to be present in Jebel Marra.

"We need to have UNAMID present here... to offer big assistance to the local region," he said.

Access for delivering humanitarian aid and ensuring security in Darfur are key conditions insisted by Washington in order to lift sanctions imposed on Sudan in 1997.

Although Washington believes Khartoum's terror ties have ebbed, it has kept sanctions in place because of the scorched-earth tactics it has used against ethnic minority rebels in Darfur.
By Press Trust of India: Dubai, Jun 19 (PTI) An Indian has committed suicide in Kuwait by hanging himself from a heavy-duty vehicle.

A Syrian national who also works in Kuwait alerted the Interior Ministry about the incident on King Fahad Motorway, the Arab Times reported.

The body of the Indian national has been sent for post- mortem. No further details have been disclosed, the report said. PTI UZM AKJ UZM

--- ENDS ---

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Rome (AFP) - Central African Republic's government on Monday signed an "immediate ceasefire" deal with rebel groups during a meeting in Rome aimed at ending violence in the strife-torn country.

The truce will see armed groups be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks and rebel blockades.

It is part of an accord brokered by the Sant'Egidio Catholic Community.

"We commit to the immediate implementation by political-military groups of a country-wide ceasefire, to be monitored by the international community, as a fundamental step on the way to definitive peace," the deal read.

"The government undertakes to ensure military groups are represented at all levels," and are "recognised as part of the reconstruction efforts", it said.

The rebel groups pledged to ensure "the free movement of people and goods by removing illegal barriers as an immediate consequence of the ceasefire".

Sant'Egidio's president Marco Impagliazzo described the accord as "an historic agreement, a deal full of hope".

One of the world's poorest nations, CAR has been struggling to recover from a civil war between the Muslim and Christian militias that started in 2013.

Just as the country looked set to begin turning the page on years of bloodshed, a flare-up of sectarian violence last month killed more than 100 people.

Another 100,000 were forced to flee their homes in May, according to UN numbers.
Bamako (AFP) - An Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist alliance claimed responsibility Monday for an attack on a tourist resort near Mali's capital that left five people dead, including members of a European Union mission to the country.

The Group to Support Islam and Muslims, a fusion of jihadist groups with previous Al-Qaeda links, said in a statement three of its "martyrs" had killed Westerners in Sunday's assault on the Kangaba Le Campement resort.

The group, also known as Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen in Arabic, said the attackers were from the Fula ethnic group and battled for "many hours" at the popular eco-lodge near Bamako, which it termed a site of "debauchery".

Their statement was quickly picked up by extremist monitor SITE and two Mauritanian news agencies known for reporting on the region's jihadist activity, after being posted on the group's Telegram channel.

Three foreigners, a Malian civilian and a Malian soldier were killed in the latest high-profile assault in north and west Africa targeting locals and tourists, including in neighbouring Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast.

Witnesses said EU and UN staff raised the alert to speed up the deployment of Malian and French special forces when the shooting began at Kangaba.

Some assailants had shouted "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest), according to other witnesses interviewed.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, speaking in Luxembourg, confirmed two of the victims were EU staff, a Portuguese soldier who was training troops in the Malian army and a Malian woman.

Investigation opens

Prosecutor Boubacar Sidiky Samake said other victims were a Chinese man, a Malian woman and a Portuguese man who died from bullet wounds, while a man from Cameroon died of a heart attack at the scene.

Samake also announced that a criminal investigation has been opened and that Kalashnikovs, a pistol and ammunition had been retrieved from the site of the atttack.

At least four suspected jihadists have been placed in custody while four attackers were killed during the incident, Security Minister Salif Traore told AFP.

Traore said 36 hostages, mostly French and Malian, were freed, but around 20 members of Mali's special forces remained at the eco-lodge Monday.

Kangaba is known to be popular with expatriates. The Portuguese soldier who died was among off-duty members of the EU's army training mission in Mali, and of MINUSMA, the United Nations peacekeeping force in the country.

A Kangaba employee described ushering clients into a hiding place, a possible explanation for the relatively low death toll compared with the lives lost in previous assaults on tourist targets in west Africa.

Among those saved Sunday were two Spaniards, two Dutch and two Egyptian nationals, according to the security ministry.

US warning

Domestic and foreign forces deployed in Mali's troubled north and centre have been repeated targets of jihadist forces, but attacks on civilians in and around the capital are rare, with the last major incident in November 2015 when gunmen stormed the Radisson Blu hotel in Bamako.

Samake said Monday that the Kangaba attack "bore all the hallmarks" of the Radisson Blu assault.

That siege, which left 20 people dead, led to the government imposing a state of emergency which has been in place more or less ever since.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Bamako had warned about "a possible increased threat of attacks against Western diplomatic missions, places of worship" and other places frequented by Westerners.

In January, Kangaba's owner Herve Depardieu had complained about the "alarming security information" issued by foreign consulates.

Residents were first alerted to the attack on the Kangaba tourist resort near the Malian capital Bamako when they heard gunshots and saw smoke billowing into the air

In a sign of Mali's ongoing instability, one soldier was killed and three wounded on Monday in the northern town of Bamba, in what the armed forces said was yet another "terrorist attack".

New anti-terror force

In 2012, Mali's north fell under the control of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda who hijacked an ethnic Tuareg-led rebel uprising, though the Islamists were largely ousted by a French-led military operation in January 2013.

Since then, jihadists have continued to mount numerous attacks on civilians and the army, as well as on French and UN forces stationed there.

The unrest has continued despite a 2015 peace deal between the government and Tuareg-led rebels that aimed to tackle some of the grievances held by separatists in the north.

Despite the presence of the 12,000-strong UN peacekeeping mission and French troops serving in a separate counter-terrorism force operating across the Sahel region, instability is growing.

France is pressing the UN Security Council to quickly adopt a resolution to fund and support a new African anti-jihadist force in the Sahel, comprising troops from Mali, Niger, Chad, Mauritania and Burkina Faso.

But Washington says the resolution is too vague. As the leading financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations, it also wants to tighten spending.

After paying homage to victims, African Union Commission (AU) Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat on Monday described "the crucial importance of the Security Council's support to the collective efforts of the countries of the region," referring to the proposed resolution.

Malian special forces worked with their French counterparts to halt the attack on the resort which lies just east of the capital Bamako

Mogherini, who has promised 50 million euros ($56 million) to back the new force, said Monday that Europeans and Africans were "brothers and sisters" in the fight against terror.
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Accra, June 19, GNA - The Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah African Genius Awards foundation in partnership with Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) has spelt-out the selection criteria for the 2017 African Genius Award, slated for December 8, this year.

The 2017 African Genius Award seeks to recognise the contribution of Africa's creative geniuses in Arts and Culture, Science, Technology and Innovation.

Africans and Ghanaians who have demonstrated their indispensability in the world of Entrepreneurship; Leadership; Language; Visual Art; Music; Information Communication and Technology; Medicine; Writing; African Philosophy; Young Icon; and Lifetime Achievement would be selected through an open process for recognition.

A joint statement issued by the Board of Governors of the Awards scheme and CDA Consult, a development communication consultant stated.

The statement, signed jointly by Mr Enimil Ashon, Executive Director of the Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah African Genius Foundation and Mr Francis Ameyibor, Executive Director of the CDA Consult, said the award will also recognise 'Young Icons' achievers, 30 years or below, who have pioneered an art form or a technological innovation.

The statement explained that the Africans in the diaspora with really outstanding, earth shaking achievements would also be identified and awarded.

The statement said the Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah African Genius Awards platform would also be used to create a network situation for Africans, both outside and inside the continent to work in the interest of Africa and the world.

The African Genius Award is a biennial continental platform to celebrate excellence and recognise the contribution of the African Genius to the making of civilization.

The statement said this year's awards event, which coincides with Ghana's 60th anniversary of statehood, will reflect on the vision of the founder, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

It said the Board of Governors of the Awards scheme and CDA Consult had initiated networking platform through email: [email protected] and urged corporate bodies, embassies, governmental and non-governmental organisations to connect for the necessary association modalities.

CDA Consult provides tailor made development communication tools necessary for operational transformation and translating dreams into achievable goals and equips clients with mechanism for public education on specific issues.

It also provided effective back-up or frontline monitoring and evaluation tools to ensure value for money delivery of projects, whilst providing clients with skills to deliver timely and accurate information on their activities, work, programmes and projects.

CDA Consult is also aimed at building a responsive working culture for corporate growth through a social process at institutional levels based on dialogue using a broad range of tools and methods.

It also assists client to use continuous and adaptive process of gathering, organising and formulating information and data into argument and to communicate to policy-makers through various interpersonal and mass media communication channels.

The Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah African Genius Award Board of Governors, including the Grand Patron, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Omanhen of Essikado, Mr Kojo Yankah, Founder of African University College of Communication (AUCC) and Board chair, and Mr Kwaw Ansah, Chairman of Film Africa Limited.

Others are: Professor Francis Nkrumah, former Director Noguchi Memorial Centre and son of the first President; Prof. Akilagpa Sawyerr, former Vice Chancellor, University of Ghana; and Mr Alhassan Andani, CEO Stanbic Bank.

Mr Daniel Asiedu, Managing Director, ADB Bank; Dr Mrs Ellen Hagan, CEO L'Ainee Services; Nana Adwoa Awindor, CEO of Premier Events and Promotions, Mrs Kate Quartey-Papafio, CEO of Reroy Group, Prof Kofi Asare Opoku, Professor of African Studies and Nana Owusu Afari, Chairman of Afariwa Farms and past President of the Association of Ghana Industries

The rest are Dr Joseph Ampofo, representing the scientific community; Dr Kwame Akuffo Anoff-Ntow, Director General, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation; and Mr Kenneth Ashigbey, MD of Graphic Communications Group and Mr Kwesi Darku, MD Innolink Ghana Limited.

Representatives from the African Union, corporate bodies; Ambassadors and High Commissioners; and religious Leaders will also participate in the launch.

GNA
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Kumasi, June 19, GNA - The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) has donated assorted food items to Muslims in support of the Ramadan.

These included 100 bags of rice, 50 boxes of edible oil, 50 bags each of Lipton tea and sugar.

Mr. Simon Osei-Mensah, the Regional Minister, handed over the items to the Regional Chief Imam, Sheikh Haroun Abdul-Mumin, at a ceremony held at the Kumasi Central Mosque.

He encouraged the Islamic faithful to use the holy month to pray for Allah's continued blessings of peace, unity and progress of the nation.

They should also use the period of spiritual cleansing to renew their commitment to religious tolerance and harmony, he added.

Mr. Osei-Mensah used the occasion to remind everybody to get right with the law, pointing out that, no meaningful development could take place in the midst of lawlessness and confusion.

He invited the Muslim community to join the fight against illegal mining, popularly referred to as 'galamsey', corruption and other malpractices impeding the progress of the country.

He underlined the government's determination to keep faith with the people - to work hard to transform their living conditions.

Sheikh Abdul-Mumin said they were grateful to the RCC for the gesture.

GNA

By Stephen Asante, GNA
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Accra, June 19, GNA - The General Executive Council, Resurrection Power and Living Bread Ministries International (REPLIB) has elevated Bishop Akwasi Asare Bediako, the General Overseer of REPLIB, to the office of an Archbishop.

The solemn ceremony which registered dignitaries including; Bishops across the various branches of the Church; was officiated by The Most Reverend Dr Samuel Richard Addae, President of International Council of Churches and Ministers of Great Britain.

Archbishop Akwasi Asare Bediako, is the second born of 10 children and was born in April, 1959 in Kumasi to Mr Joseph Kofi Asuman and Maame Adwoa Tawiaa.

Archbishop's greatest attribute, which is an asset to himself and the Body of Christ - is his meekness.

He is patiently humble with both the young and old which sometimes is misconstrued as weakness and taken for granted by some people.

He is keen to influence future generations to be more vigilant for Christ in this end time hence meeting guides, teaching and impacting his gifting and knowledge into the youth and recognising them as future leaders.

He has been in the ministry for 30 years and is married to Stella and blessed with five children.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Bishop Yaw Owusu Ansah, the Greater Accra Regional Overseer, REPLIB said Archbishop Asare Bediako had championed the course, after succeeding the late Francis Amoako, founder of the Church.

He noted that the Archbishop had established numerous branches of the Church across the globe and had also been able to raise some of his pastors who had been with him for more than 20 years.

He explained that after serving faithfully they had been raised to the level of Bishops and Apostles and in that regard there was the need for God to elevate Bishop Asare Bediako to another level.

Rev Owusu Ansah noted that, Archbishop Asare Bediako could not have lifted himself up, so the senior men in the field such as Archbishop Addae, who is also the Presiding Archbishop of Shiloh International, stood in for the British organisation as a commander-in-chief.

He said the vision of the Archbishop Asare Bediako and the entire Church was to continue propagating the gospel as well as admonish people to where God wanted them to be.

Rev Owusu Ansah noted that in the near future, he would launch a charitable foundation, purposed to engage the minds, support the needs and facilitate the holistic health and wellbeing of the aged community

He said Archbishop Asare Bediako's vision was to establish a university for the Church, complete an ongoing project aimed at honouring his successor.

He said under the leadership of Archbishop Asare Bediako, the Church had already established a Bible College.

Rev Owusu Ansah described the Archbishop as a humble servant of God; irrespective of his position adding that 'he is always ready to share and listen to the views and thoughts concerning the kingdom of God.'

He said most importantly, Archbishop Asare Bediako was very passionate about winning souls and raising people up from a negative background, to make sure that God used such people to his glory and described the Archbishop as a songwriter, teacher, and a man, who was always in a prophetic mood.

GNA

By Iddi Yire, GNA
19.06.2017 LISTEN

Bolgatanga, June 19, GNA - Stakeholders in education at a policy dialogue forum organized in Bolgatanga have called for the institutionalization of guidelines for government's intervention on free school uniforms distribution.

The forum, which was organized by SEND-Ghana and attracted various stakeholders in the education sector, including circuit supervisors, head teachers, school management committees, parent teacher association, traditional rulers and technocrats of the Municipal Assembly, was to disseminate research findings conducted by SEND-Ghana and its partner, the Programme for Rural Integrated Development (PRIDE)-Ghana on government's free school uniform distribution in the Bolgatanga Municipality.

The research findings revealed that as a result of the lack of guidelines for the distribution of the school uniforms, the programme was not making its desired impact of helping needy pupils in deprived areas.

The research also revealed that with the centralization of the programme in Accra, many of the uniforms that were being made elsewhere and transported to the region for distribution were either oversized or undersized and could not fit the pupils.

It was found out that many of the uniforms were dumped in the Education Directorate office in the region because they could not be used and the materials that were used to sew such uniforms were substandard.

The stakeholders called for the decentralization of the programme saying that would help it achieve its aims of helping the needy pupils and contributing to the local economy.

They proposed that instead of importing materials from outside the country, Ghanaian textile companies should be contracted to produce good quality materials.

They also suggested that the Regional Directorates of Ghana Education Service in collaboration with the Municipal and District Assemblies be made to oversee the implementation of the intervention.

Mr Gregory Titigah, the Senior Project Officer of SEND-Ghana, said the research, which was conducted in 30 municipalities and districts across the country, revealed similar findings.

He called on all stakeholders including traditional, religious, opinion leaders, Parent Teacher Associations and School Management Committees and the media to get actively involved in the programmes to help ensure transparency and accountability.

GNA

By Samuel Akapule, GNA
Bangui (Central African Republic) (AFP) - The Central African Republic's government on Monday signed an "immediate ceasefire" deal with rebel groups at a meeting in Rome aimed at ending violence in the strife-torn country.

The accord, negotiated over five days, was hailed as a precious chance to stabilise one of the world's most volatile and poorest countries.

Under it, armed groups will be given representation in the political arena in exchange for an end to attacks and blockades, and their members will be brought into the country's armed forces.

"We commit to the immediate implementation by political-military groups of a country-wide ceasefire, to be monitored by the international community, as a fundamental step on the way to definitive peace," the deal read.

"The government undertakes to ensure military groups are represented at all levels" and are "recognised as part of the reconstruction efforts", it said.

The accord was brokered by the Community of Sant'Egidio, a group rooted in the Catholic Church that promotes dialogue with other religions and non-believers. It has been an active mediator in many African conflicts.

The rebel groups pledged to ensure "the free movement of people and goods by removing illegal barriers as an immediate consequence of the ceasefire".

State authority

The signatories also committed to "restoring the (authority of the) state across the national territory."

One of the world's poorest nations, CAR has been struggling to recover from a civil war between Muslim and Christian militias that started in 2013 when President Francois Bozize was overthrown by a coalition of Muslim-majority rebel groups called the Seleka.

They in turn were ousted by a military intervention led by former colonial ruler France.

Those events sparked the bloodiest sectarian violence in the country's history as mainly Christian militias sought revenge.

Christians, who account for about 80 percent of the population, organised vigilante units dubbed "anti-balaka", in reference to the machetes used by the rebels.

The signatories of Monday's agreement included various factions of the Seleka as well as Christian and animist groups.

Members of armed groups will be "integrated" into the country's armed forces, "in line with pre-established criteria" and after an "upgrade," according to the deal.

Sant'Egidio's president Marco Impagliazzo described the accord as "an historic agreement, a deal full of hope".

CAR's foreign minister, Charles Armel Doubane, echoed those remarks, speaking of a "day of hope" for the country.

The UN's special representative on CAR, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga of Gabon, who is also head of the UN's stabilisation force there, attended the talks. Several heads of CAR political parties also took part.

Mounting concern

The agreement announced on Monday comes against a backdrop of mounting concern.

Last month, the UN's humanitarian coordination agency OCHA reported on an "alarming" rise in violence, with "clashes (that) have taken an increasingly religious and ethnic connotation,."

It said the number of internally displaced people is now over half a million for the first time since August 2014, while a further 400,000, out of a population of 4.5 million, had fled to neighbouring countries.

The country's armed forces are estimated to number about 8,000, backed by 900 French troops and 10,000 troops and 2,000 civilians serving in a UN force called MINUSCA.

They have stabilised the situation, but around half the country -- which covers almost 623,000 square kilometres (241,000 square miles), a little less than Afghanistan or Chile -- remains outside government control.

"We must ensure that all the parties respect this agreement," MINUSCA spokesman Vladimir Monteiro told AFP Monday.

"We will work with all the partners for the immediate cessation of hostilities so that the violence against the populations ceases," he added.
Pretty Nollywood actress, Rose Odika, has enjoyed a smooth ride in the movie industry and she has been planning on little ways at which she help promote the Yoruba culture more.

The actress with her team has concluded plans as they are set to showcase the beauty and strength in Yoruba culture later in the year.

According to the actress, the project which she called Ewa Asa, is a pet project which she has been nursing for a while and through the help of the Ooni of Ife, HRM Oba Enitan Adeyeye ogunwusi Ojaja11, it will be coming to reality by November, 2017.

According to the actress, 'Ewa Asa' my pet project to showcase the beauty and strength in Yoruba culture coming up in November at the palace of the Ooni of ile ife HRM Oba Enitan Adeyeye ogunwusi Ojaja11.
19.06.2017 LISTEN

In his quest to set a new standard in hospitality industry and tourism in Lagos State and Nigeria at large, former Nigerian ambassador to the Republic of Congo and a legal practitioner, Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe MFR, with the support of the Mbadiwes, have launched a luxurious hotel and tourist centre, King Celia Hotels and suites, in the heart of Lagos.

The five star relaxation centre situated at 8 Jibowu Street, Yaba, according to the brains behind, was part of his desire to accomplish his parents, especially his father's dream, adding, "my venture into hospitality business is to make the dream of my father a reality. My late father wanted to build a hotel in our hometown before his death, but the project is still awaiting attention right now. Also, having partnered with some Congolese to set up a relaxation, Brassaville Beach Hotel, I felt it is important to boast boast the hospitality and tourism of my country too with this initiative."

Speaking on the importance of the King Celia, Mbadiwe revealed that the Yaba location is historical, stressing that it was the centre of old Lagos. He added "My siblings and I thought of immortalising our parents in our father's first house located at Yaba where he paticipated fully in Nigerian politics and the pedigree of this house is such was that he donated part of the house to the national party, NPN then in 1979. It would interest you to know that Alhaji Shehu Shagari lived in this house. I also grew up in this house. Yaba was the end of Western region then and the beginning of Lagos. We decided to reconstruct the house to a hotel and tourist centre in memory of our parents, Kingsley and Cecilia Mbadiwe and also to complement the efforts of Lagos and Nigeria for honouring our dad."

Mbadiwe also noted that, the initiative, without doubt, will also project the values and great influence of the geographical area, mostly as a silicon valley of Nigeria and also remind visitors with various displays of national leaders and pictorial displays indicating that Yaba was part of Nigerias political history.

Speaking on the facilities and intending services o provide for prospective customers, the General Managing , Hassan Fawaz, a renowned hospitality business expert noted that the luxurious edifice is ready to set a new standard in the industry and the the Nigerian market with a distinct hotel experience rooted in quality, excellence and culture.

"Kings Celia Hotel is very unique. We plan to provide our guests with an unforgettable experiece matched by our very high standards and fully equipped facilities to even challenge those on the Island. Another attraction is the rich national cultural heritage we showcase on our walls.

"Located in two floors are 50 luxury rooms ranging from standard, deluxe, executive rooms and suites for guests. Other facilities include well designed parking space, 24 hour electricity and room service, as well as internet facility. For recreation, we have swimming pool, gymnasium, onsite bar and restaurant, conference room, standard event centre, among others. Also, it is situated only five minutes away from the Ozone Cinemas, and easily accessible to the business districts of Lagos such as Ikeja, Victoria Island and Lekki," he added.
Actor Anupam Kher illuminated the United Nations building as preparations for International Day of Yoga begin.

By India Today Web Desk: As United Nations prepares for International Day of Yoga, actor Anupam Kher illuminated the headquarter building in New York.

"Great honour to illuminate the #UnitedNation building, NY in preparation of #InternationalDayofYoga. Thank you @AkbaruddinIndia Sir", he tweeted.

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Anumpan Kher thanked Syed Akbaruddin, India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN and shared pictures of illumination of United Nations.

Yoga lights up @UN.Here's a sneak peek ofthe iconic UN Headquarters building being lit up like never before for International Day of Yoga pic.twitter.com/8I34egsVqc- Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) June 19, 2017

He was in New York to premiere for his American film 'The Big Sick' and will also be seen along with Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar in 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha'.

In 2016, Anupam Kher was also conferred with a Padma Bhushan award.

Also read: Anupam Kher on CM Yogi Adityanath: Don't want to dignify troll attack

Also watch :

--- ENDS ---
It is no secret that people like to count other peoples money. We are no different in this regard. That is why we want to share with you everything we could find on the richest man in Igboland Nigeria. His background, his road to success, his involvement in the life of Igbo people: nothing will be left untouched. Continue reading for the detailed overview of the richest Igbo mans life.

Who is the richest man in Igbo land?

Ok, we have kept you in suspense long enough, and it is time to reveal who holds the title of the richest Igbo man in Nigeria. It is none other than the famous Orji Uzor Kalu, governor of Abia State from 1999 to 2007, a well-known businessman, politician and activist. Lets look closer at his life before he gained his fortune.

How it all started

Orji Uzor Kalu, who was born in Aba, Nigeria on April 21, 1960, started out simple. He went to Christ the King Cathedral Secondary School in his hometown. After graduation, he attended Government College, Umuahia, and then studied at Barewa College, Zaria.

However, his rebellious side started to show when he went to UNIMAID (University of Maiduguri). While studying political science, he joined the group of activists by the name of Ali Must Go in an effort to remove the Minister of Education of that time from his post. Soon after, he initiated a riot, which led to his suspension.

At that point, Orji Uzor Kalu realized that making money was more important than getting a degree, so he borrowed some money from his mom, and with #5000 in his pocket, he ventured to start his little business. He purchased palm oil somewhere in eastern Nigeria and sold it to the buyers in Northern Nigeria. It is important to note that he was only 19 years old when he became a businessman.

During this time, he also started his furniture business that began with purchasing and reselling luxury furniture from his native region to the wealthy buyers in the North. It later grew to furniture manufacturing business, and the oil trade was left in the past.

In addition, while his business ideas panned out, he received pardon from his former university, but he decided not to return. First of all, what was the point in studying if he already had profits? And second of all, he explained that he did not want this amnesty, as not everyone who participated in the protests and riots received it.

How he is doing now

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As he has proven himself to be a successful businessman, he created a conglomerate called Slok Group, which now includes a paper factory, an airlines company, a publishing house, a bank, a furniture company, an oil plant and branches in a lot of countries all over the world (UK, USA, Botswana, Guinea, Ghana and others).

Despite being expelled from the university at age 19, Orji Uzor Kalu has various degrees and certificates, including Harvards Business Administration Certificate and doctorate degrees from Abia State University and University of Maiduguri.

Orji Uzor Kalu is the chairman of the New Telegraph and Daily Sun, which are both popular Nigerian newspapers. In addition, he is the creator of the First International Bank Ltd. His net worth is rumored to be around $1.1 billion. Richest Igbo man in Nigeria is also one of the richest men in Nigeria overall.

This Igbo man is also active in the life of his people. With the help of Emmanuel Onwe, he created an organization named Njiko Igbo Movement, which aims to make a representative of Igbo tribe the President of Nigeria. He stated several times that the Igbo do not receive enough political power in Nigeria, which is why it is important to help the Igbo peoples political ambitions.

It is interesting to mention that Orji Uzor Kalu himself ran for office in 2007 as a member of the Progressive Peoples Alliance party. Before that, he was also a member of Peoples Democratic party during his time as the governor, as well as All Progressives Congress member in 2016.

The other presidency post he has considered was the post of FIFA President. However, Kalu had withdrawn his candidacy before the final decision was to be made. One of the reasons was that some people questioned his integrity, as he had corruption charges brought against him while he was serving as the Governor of Abia State.

In his life, he has received several awards for his achievements. They include awards from the EU, University of Nigeria, World Bank, as well as numerous awards for his business success.

Orji Uzor Kalu has proven time and time again that you don t have to be born successful and rich. You only have to work hard, know what to do and how to do it and have an eye for lucrative business opportunities. Even though his success might have gotten to his head sometimes, he has redeemed himself with his humanitarian work and charities. We wish him best of luck in his future endeavors!

READ ALSO: Solution to economic recession in Nigeria: 10 steps to be made

Source: Legit.ng
The history of Nigeria is actually quite interesting, especially when it comes to the question about constitutional development in Nigeria before Independence. Lets look through some facts you have never heard before!

What does Constitution mean?

First of all, a constitution is a collection of rules and regulations which govern or guide the actions of a nation. Usually, it can help a government to do its work, and it also helps citizens not to forget about their duties and rights. Basically, a constitution can be called the law. So, the significance of a constitution in any given community cannot be overemphasized.

Moreover, it is the basic and organic law of a country or state which forms the establishments and decisions of the government, determines the capability of governmental sovereign powers, and guarantees individual civilian rights and civilian liberties.

The Nigerian constitution is the superior law of the territory and the acts of people and parliament should not contradict it.

It is commonly known that one of the sources of the constitution is another organic law. Let us take a second to hunt down the history of Nigerian constitution from 1922 to 1979. This can help us to realize, how the preceding constitutions were formed in Nigeria and to see the principle of our present constitution.

Interesting facts about the Constitutional development in Nigeria

According to the history of Nigeria, in 1861, after the capture of Lagos by the British, a Legislative and Executive Council were set. In 1862, Lagos and other British regions in the Gold Coast were placed under the authority of a Governor General which was based in Sierra Leone on 19 February 1866. Actually, all of them had their own Legislative Councils.

What is interesting is that in 1874 Lagos and the Gold Coast were launched into an individual colony. As a result, Lagos passed into an individual political object with its own Governor, Legislative and Executive Councils in 1886.

Did you know that the colony of Lagos and the Protectorate of Southern Nigeria were united in 1906? What is more, the Legislative Council of Lagos was authorized to make laws by decree in 1906.

One more interesting fact is that the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria was joined to the Protectorate and the Colony of Southern Nigeria and they were called the colony and protectorate of Nigeria in 1914. As for the Legislative Council, it was empowered to make laws only for the colony. The governor was empowered to make laws for the protectorates. The large population of the country was the main reason for that.

An advisory body, the Nigerian Council, was accepted instead of the Legislative Council for the country. The Nigerian Council consisted of 30 members (17 officials and 13 non-officials). As for the non-officials, it is known that 4 of them were assigned by the governor to introduce shipping, commercial, banking, and mining interests. The Calabar Chamber of Commerce, Chamber of Mines, and Lagos Chamber of Commerce had only one member each.

READ ALSO: Presidential system of government in Nigeria - facts you should know

Constitutional development in Nigeria before Independence

According to the history of Nigeria, there were four constitutional periods before the Independence. Here is a list:

1) The Clifford Constitution of 1922;

2) The Richard's Constitution of 1946;

3) The Macpherson Constitution of 1951;

4) The Lyttleton Constitution of 1954.

The Clifford Constitution of 1922

In 1919, the governor, Sir Hugh Clifford, on assuming office was pressured by the West African Congress, which was led by Caseley Hayford, to ensure constitutions in West African liable states. As a result, this led to the Clifford Constitution establishment in 1922.

The Clifford Constitution introduced the first voting system in Nigeria. The first voting was held in the legislative council with four slots: three for Lagos and one for Calabar. Nevertheless, the voting was grounded on a restricted franchise which bounded the election to those that gain a minimum of 100 pounds per year. It was too expensive for almost all Nigerian people.

Also, the Clifford Constitution injected a legislative council instead of the Nigerian Council. This council contained 46 members with the governor as the leader. As for these members, 23 of them used to be officials and 19 non-officials. The other 4 were voted earlier. By the way, the council could enact laws only for the Southern part of Nigeria. While the governor enacted laws for the Northern part of Nigeria.

Speaking about the executive council, it had no Nigerians and consisted of the chief secretary, governor, an administrator for Lagos, lieutenant governors, director of the medical service, attorney  general, commandant of the Nigerian Regiment, Comptroller General, and Secretary for domestic cases.

The Richard's Constitution of 1946

At the end of 1944, the governor, Sir Arthur Richard proposed a new constitutional modification. The main reason was the pressure set up on him by the well-educated elite. They thought that the Clifford Constitution did not introduce the native population. Thus, the governor represented the constitution with the following targets:

1) To facilitate the Nigerias unity;

2) To ensure enough various elements that draw up the land;

3) To ensure the bigger involvement of African people in the definition of their own cases.

The Richard Constitution envisaged a new legislative council which consisted of the governor, 16 official members, and 28 non-official members. Two of the 28 non-official members were proposed by the governor while four were chosen. The Northern part had 11 members; the Western part had 8 members while the Eastern part had only 6 members. The voted four members were from Lagos and Calabar. By the way, as a result of the Richard Constitution, the council enacted laws for the whole country.

Also, this constitution envisaged regional houses of assembly. Usually, the members of the assembly were assigned by the native authority. However, these were just grounds for discussing national issues, but not legislative bodies. The Eastern and Western parts had unicameral legislature while the Northern part had a house of chiefs.

Did you know that the Richard Constitution reduced the amount of the limited franchise from 100 pounds to 50 pounds? That was considered to be an advantage because more people could elect and be elected for. Still, it remained too expensive for the bigger part of Nigerian people.

In spite of all these renovations compared to the Clifford Constitution, the Richard Constitution still had some imperfections.

The Macpherson Constitution of 1951

Owing to the problems of the Richard Constitution, the country felt that a new constitution was needed. That is why the governor, Sir John Macpherson, did not want to make the mistakes his precursor has made and decided to include Nigerians in the constitution-making process. The consultation with Nigerians was very wide and even reached the village levels. As a result, all of these and the Ibadan Conference in 1950, led to the establishment of the Macpherson Constitution.

The Macpherson Constitution envisaged a federal legislative body called the House of Representatives. It consisted of 136 voted representatives, 6 ex-official members, and 6 nominated by the governor. 68 members were from the Northern part, 34 from the Western part, and 34 from the Eastern part.

Also, the Macpherson Constitution provided regional legislatures that could enact laws for each regions. The legislative bodies in the Western and Northern parts were bicameral. Each had a house of chiefs alongside the regional legislature. In the Eastern part, it was a unicameral legislature.

The Lyttleton Constitution of 1954

In spite of the renovations in the Macpherson Constitution, it couldnt unite all the Nigerian people. That is why it collapsed because of legislative challenges. In 1953, Anthony Enahoro proposed that Nigeria should gain independence in 1956.

The Northern part, who thought that they were not ready to gain independence, were against this. The reaction in Kano and Lagos were not positive, and the Northern part threatened to separate.

In a bid to settle things down, Oliver Lyttleton, the colonial secretary of that time, asked the chiefs to go to London to hold a special conference. They discussed a lot of problems during the session and councils were established. As a result, this conference became the reason for the Lyttleton Constitution establishment.

Lyttleton

That is why the constitutional conferences of 1953 and 1954 held in London and Lagos are considered to be the main reasons for the Lyttleton Constitution establishment. This Constitution completely represented a federal system, with Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern Cameroons. Whereas the Federal capital territory was situated in Lagos.

The West African Court of Appeal was eliminated. There was a Supreme Court for the whole country and separate High Courts of Justice for every region. Nevertheless, the Highest Court of Appeal was the judiciary committee of the privy council. By the way, the Eastern and Western parts became independent in 1957, whereas the Northern part became independent in 1959. As for the Southern Cameroon, it should be mentioned that it opted out of Nigeria because of the referendum.

So, as you can see the constitutional development in Nigeria is rather interesting. Step-by-step the leaders tried to improve it as much as possible. In any way, this article is about constitutional development before independence. So, check out the second part of our story! Good luck!

READ ALSO: History of political parties in Nigeria since 1960

Source: Legit.ng
- An ethnic clash has erupted in Gembu, Nguroje and other parts of Taraba state

- Three people have been reportedly killed

- There are fears that the death toll will rise

Emerging reports suggest that fresh communal clashes have broken out in Taraba state.

According to Premium Times, the clashes were experienced in Gembu, Nguroje and other parts of Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba.

The violence is suspected to be between the Kakas and Fulani ethnic groups.

Locals say that the crisis erupted Sunday morning after some youth took to the streets destroying property and smashing vehicles.

As I am talking to you, violence has erupted, they are attacking us, and some were killed, a resident said asking to remain anonymous for security reasons.

The resident said he saw three corpses.

As of the time of filing this report, newsmen were yet to independently verify the casualty figures.

Efforts to reach the police spokesperson in the state, David Misal, have been unsuccessful as he did not pick or return calls.

READ ALSO: Evans the notorious kidnapper takes Policemen to his dens: Check out the isolated COMPOUNDS he keeps his victims

However, a security source in the area confirmed the violence.

As I am talking to you, curfew has been imposed following this crisis that ensued between the Kakas and Fulani.

The casualty is yet to be ascertained, the source said.

Since Saturday, there has been chaos in and around Nguroje town, as security personnel of the State Security Service moved in to arrest some suspects.

The people arrested are said to be suspects known to have been engineering unrest within the area.

Nguroje is the hometown to many prominent politicians including former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Babangida Nguroje; former Deputy Speaker of Taraba State House of Assembly, Bashir Abba; and a serving senator, Abubakar Yusuf.

In a similar vein, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has confirmed that 20 persons lost their lives and about 10,000 others were displaced in the recent communal clash in Dan-Anacha village in Gassol local government area of Taraba state.

The agencys coordinator in charge of Adamawa and Taraba operational offices, Mr Saad Bello confirmed the development on Wednesday, December 21, in Yola.

Bello said that the displaced persons, mostly children and women have been sheltered in four camps in the state, while NEMA is still working hard to ascertain the number of the injured persons.

He said: So far, 20 people were killed and about 10,000 internally displaced in the recent communal crisis between farmers and herdsmen in Dan-Anacha village in Gassol LGA of Taraba state.

Bello who commended NEMAs swift action in reaching out to affected areas said that NEMA was contacting security operatives on the safety situation to enable its members reach all affected areas with additional humanitarian assistance.

According to Premium Times, a source claimed the clash commenced on Saturday through Sunday after some Fulani herdsmen discovered two bodies of their men in a bush. This discovery triggered a reprisal attack on the Tivs by the Fulanis.

Below is a Legit.ng video in which Nigerians react to the recent arrest of the billionaire kidnapper in Lagos, airing their views on the deserved punishment for the kingpin.

Source: Legit.ng
Find out interesting facts about the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Nigeria! Who is the current NDLEA Chairman? What are the main functions of NDLEA? All the answers and even more are in the article.

Why are drugs are so widespread here in Nigeria?

Unfortunately, nowadays Nigeria is regarded as the heart of African drugs trafficking. The poly-crime institutions of Nigeria keep expanding their contribution in drugs trafficking all around the world. The trafficking organizations of Nigeria usually monitor the Sub-Saharan African drug markets, and they also manage drug spread systems from strategic positions all over the world.

Nigerians are responsible for the trafficking of a great amount of heroin used in the US. Also, they contraband the cocaine from South America to Europe and Africa, especially to the Southern Africa. What is more, they traffic such drugs as marijuana or cannabis (the only one drug that is farmed in Nigeria) abroad.

NDLEA officers at cannabis farm

As for the transborder drug trafficking, it is hardly participated by Nigerians. According to one of the investigations, it was pointed out that 65% of the heroin (it's about 50 g. or even more) confiscated in British airports came from Nigeria. Also, it was the transportation station for 20% of all the heroin from Southwest Asia.

Another investigation detected that 20% of cases with hard drugs in Britain engaged vessels of the Nigerian National Shipping Line. What is more shocking, is that by the late 1980s, Nigerians arrested daily in foreign countries for drug trafficking.

READ ALSO: Drama as NDLEA arraigns EFCC official for conspiracy, illegal possession of banned substance

What is NDLEA?

Actually, NDLEA is an abbreviation for The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. It is a Federal Agency in Nigeria that is empowered to eliminate the growing, manufacturing, processing, trafficking, selling, and exporting of hard drugs. This agency was instituted by Decree #48 of January 1990. Usually, NDLEA should be present in transborder seaports, airports, and border crossing points.

Its main aim is to completely destroy the cannabis by extirpating the plants. Also, they try to catch the leaders of drugs and money laundering gangs. The main office of NDLEA is located in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Its not a surprise that counter-narcotics projects of the Nigerian Government have been unsuccessful and ineffective. The NDLEA's efforts have been interfered with by the wide-spread corruption in enforcement and with the deficiency of the clear policy control and independent government maintenance. Of course, the counter-narcotics legal system has been approved, but has not made any prosecution and condemnation of drug trafficking leaders.

Also, Babangida canceled the death penalty for condemned drug dealers. By the end of the decade, there were many calls by the people to renew it again. At Lagos International Airport, in 1989, stringent safety measures were created to restrain a crime wave there and to monitor the activities of the black market.

The NDLEA is always present at the international airports and is always ready to confiscate the heroin and arrest drug dealers. Also, it holds attacks raids at transborder seaports and border crossing points.

However, despite the NDLEAs counter-narcotic efforts, more and more drugs are run through the sea and overland borders of Nigeria. These overland borders are badly patrolled, and the special law enforcement agencies are filled with corrupted officials. The ports of Nigeria are also badly controlled and suffer from corruption.

Even though the efforts of the NDLEA have led to dangerous scenarios for dealers to be caught at the airport, traffickers still continue to use express mail and air cargo services. The trafficking communities in Nigeria rely more and more on bulk shipments by sea and land to traffic drugs in and out of the land.

NDLEA Chairmen

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency usually consists of:

- the Chairman;

- the representative of the Nigeria Police Force;

- the Director, Military Intelligence;

- the Director of Customs and Excise;

- the Director, State Security Service;

- the representative of the Federal Ministry of Justice;

- the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency;

- the representative each of the Ministries of External Affairs, and Health;

- three other persons.

The current Chairman of the NDLEA (also known as the Chief Executive Officer) is Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah. He was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari. He took over from Ahmadu Giade who finished his tenure in office on November 24, 2015.

What are the functions of NDLEA in Nigeria?

#1. The first function of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency is to use all the resources at its disposal for the absolute extirpation of all illegal trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. In other words, the reduction of illegal drugs and other substances on demand.

#2. They usually have the mandate agreement to recover all ill-gotten wealth, acquired from proceeds of illegal drug trading.

#3. The third function is to defend, strengthen, and maintain the image of Nigeria and Nigerian people both at home and abroad.

#4. The last and the main function of NDLEA is to make the arrests where necessary and convey such drug dealer over to the police.

Now you know more about such an important Federal Agency as NDLEA. As you see it plays a great role in the war on drugs in Nigeria. Unfortunately, we still face drug trafficking, but its not because of the bad performance of such organisations as NDLEA.

As you can see, the organisation tries to fight drug dealers every day and everywhere. The main obstacle that remains on the way to the victory in this war is corruption. Everything depends on the people. When we need something, we will get it. Its just a matter of time. So, if you want to change something, you should start from yourself!

READ ALSO: What NDLEA discovered at IDPs camp is totally scandalous

Source: Legit.ng
- The Presidency has revealed why the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu was not invited to Presidential Villa

- The Presidency said Kanu is not a leader of thought in the South-East

- Special adviser to the president on political matter Babafemi ojudu said Ohanaeze leaders have only complained about marginalization in appointments and harassment by police at road blocks

The special adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on political matters Babafemi Ojudu has given reasons why the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu was not invited to Presidential Villa.

Ojudu said Kanu was not asked to join the acting president and the South-East leaders in a meeting last week because the IPOB leader is not perceived as a leader of thought in the South-East.

READ ALSO: Read how billionaire kidnapper Evans reacted to seeing picture of his wife and children in tears

He however said not inviting Kanu during the last South-East leaders meeting with the Acting President does not mean the IPOB leader will not be invited if the need arises.

The Presidency said Kanu is not a leader of thought in the South-East

Ojudu said: Well, the thing is that we were looking for leaders of the people, leaders of thought and we do not see him as a leader of thought in the east."

READ ALSO: Lagos state resumes sales of LAKE RICE: Check out prices, sales outlets nearest to you

May be opportunity will come at one time or the other for him to be engaged.

But so far, what we have done is to look at people who have influence in the communities, whether it is religious, whether it is traditional, whether it is political, social or governance.

These are the people we brought in for discussion," Ojudu said.

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The presidential adviser said the leaders of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo who visited the acing president have neither asked for a referendum on Biafra or the secession of Biafra.

He said these leaders have only complained about marginalization in appointments and harassment by police at road blocks.

Legit.ng had reported that some traditional rulers from South-East led by Eze Eberechi Diick met with Acting President Osinbajo on Sunday, June 18, at the Presidential Villa.

The traditional rulers discussed the quit notice issued to the Igbos living in the North by a Northern youth group.

You can watch this Legit.ng TV of Nnamdi Kanu speaking about Biafra agitation:

Source: Legit.ng
- Bishop Chris Udeh says the time is ripe for the actualization of the Biafra dream

- Udeh says the Arewa quit notice to Igbos in the north, is a good sign

- The clerics says Igbos must shun groups that urge them to seek after presidency

Bishop Abraham Chris Udeh, the General Overseer of Mount Zion Faith Global Liberation Ministries, has told Igbos to use the quit notice by youths in the North to work harder towards the actualisation of Biafra, stressing that it is now or never.

Bishop Udeh stated that the Republic of Biafra can be achieved now if all Igbos home and abroad unite as they have been subtly warned, through the ultimatum, to leave Nigeria.

Recall that it was Bishop Udeh who said in January that God is angry over the continuous incarceration of leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.

READ ALSO: BREAKING: Three feared dead as violence erupts in Taraba

The Bishop warned that the continued stay of Nnamdi Kanu in prison, could lead to drawing the wrath of God upon Nigeria.

Vanguard reports that Rev Udeh faulted the continued detention of the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), saying he had a revelation that God is angry about that.

He said he did not see anything wrong in Kanu fighting for his freedom and that of his people, who are agitating for the restoration of Biafran nation.

Reacting to the quit notice, Udeh said that the Igbos would be blamed by the international community, if the opportunity offered by the quit notice was not fully utilized.

The cleric wondered why Ohaneze Ndigbo and some sections of the Igbo were still talking about Igbo presidency and restructuring already overtaken by events.

His words: My worry is only Igbo hypocrisy. There is no oneness and unity of purpose amongst the Igbo. There are still discordant tunes; otherwise, why should some people be talking about restructuring and Igbo presidency instead of rallying round Nnamdi Kanu to use this opportunity to actualize Biafra.

That is the problem we have. Anybody talking about restructuring or Igbo presidency now is a coward.

No agreement between the Hausa and Igbo will hold. What about the Aburi Accord. Did it stand? All we want is an independent State of Biafra. No more, no less! Anybody saying a different thing is on his own.

He admonished the Igbo not to forget what happened to their relatives in the North in 1967, saying they should return to their home states immediately.

Meanwhile, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has warned that persons agitating for secession and the northern groups that issued ultimatum to Igbos risked jail terms as they violated Nigerias laws.

Osinbajo gave the warning at a consultative meeting with traditional rulers from the South-East at the Presidential Banquet Hall, Abuja, on Sunday.

He said that the manner of the agitations, method and objective were wrong, unlawful and clearly violated the nations Constitution.

He said: I want to repeat that both the agitations for secession and the ultimatum to leave the northern states are wrong and a violation of our Constitution.

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Our Constitution says in Section 2 that Nigeria is one indivisible and indissoluble sovereign state to be known by the name 'The Federal Republic of Nigeria," Osinbajo said.

That is the law of our country. Let us not be in any doubt about the fact that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that our country remains united.

And, anyone who violates the law in the manner such as we are seeing all over the place will be met with the full force of the law.

The reason why it is so is because for Nigerias unity, enough blood has been spilled and many hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost.

Below is a Legit.ng video in which Nigerians react to the recent arrest of the "Billionaire-Kidnapper" in Lagos.

Source: Legit.ng
By Press Trust of India: Eds: Updated with details, photos PTI6_19_2017_000124B

PTI6_19_2017_000130B PTI6_19_2017_000117B PTI6_19_2017_000104A

By Pradipta Tapadar

Darjeeling (WB), Jun 19 (PTI) Security forces patrolled the streets in this tense hill district and Internet services remained suspended for the second day today as GJM supporters held a march here and burnt effigies of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for rejecting their demand for a separate state.

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The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) has called an all-party meeting here tomorrow to discuss the next course of action.

In Kolkata, the chief minister urged all parties concerned and stakeholders to attend an all-party meeting convened by the state government in Siliguri on June 22 on the prevailing situation in Darjeeling.

"Violence cannot be a solution to any problem and only talks can solve it," she told reporters.

Banerjee had said on Saturday, "I am ready to sacrifice my life, but I will not allow Bengal to be divided."

The GJM ruled out any discussion with the government, but said it would be "comfortable" holding talks with the BJP-led government at the Centre.

The BJP is an ally of the GJM and party MP S S Ahluwalia had won the 2014 Lok Sabha election from Darjeeling with its support.

"We are not ready for talks with the West Bengal government. Mamata Banerjee has insulted us, she has called us terrorists," GJM leader Binay Tamang said.

The GJM agitators today blocked NH-31A at some places in Darjeeling district to protest the death of three their activists on Saturday.

The 92-km-long NH 31A connects Sevoke in Darjeeling district to Gangtok and is considered the lifeline of Sikkim. Around 30 km of the highway passes through West Bengal.

A state police official said, "Raids will continue. In fact, there will be raids tonight itself which will be on the basis of our intelligence inputs."

Anybody disturbing the law and order situation in the hills would face "tough handling" by the police, he said.

Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has sent a report on the ongoing violence in Darjeeling to the Union Home Ministry, which has dispatched a contingent of 125 women security personnel to help restore peace in the hills.

The state governments report is under examination of the ministry, official sources said in New Delhi.

Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi has also spoken to the states chief secretary, who had demanded that two companies -- 250 personnel -- of women paramilitary personnel be sent there, they said.

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Carrying black flags, protesters, especially the youth, marched on the streets of Chowkbazar area of Darjeeling, shouting slogans against the state government and the chief minister.

They also burnt effigies of Banerjee and vowed to continue their fight for a separate Gorkhaland.

"Three of our activists were killed. We are ready to give our lives, but will not stop protesting till we get Gorkhaland," Sirish Pradhan, a GJM worker, said.

Several small processions were taken out by the GJM activists in various parts of Darjeeling.

Internet services remained suspended for the second day today to stop the GJM activists from using the social media to spread "provocative posts", police sources said.

Security forces patrolled the streets as the situation remained tense on the fifth day of the GJM-sponsored indefinite shutdown.

"The situation is still very tense. Since morning, there has been no incident of violence. But we are on high alert and are prepared for any eventuality," said a senior police officer.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had appealed to the protesters yesterday not to resort to violence and instead, hold a dialogue to resolve any issue.

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But the GJM expressed its "displeasure" with the Centre and questioned the absence of BJP MP from Darjeeling Ahluwalia at the time of the crisis.

"The role of alliance partner BJP is very unfortunate and very disappointing. We had expected something positive on the part of the central government. We feel we are being used as pawns by the Centre and the state," Darjeeling MLA and senior GJM leader Amar Singh Rai said.

The GJM activists had taken out a protest march here yesterday carrying the bodies of two party supporters who, they alleged, were killed in police firing on Saturday.

Police pickets and barricades were placed in front of the government and the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) offices and various entry exit points of the hills while Rapid Action Force (RAF) and a sizable number of women police personnel were also deployed.

Except medicine shops, all others shops, hotels were closed in the hills. PTI PNT SUN NN SC

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- Lagos Rapid Respond Squad arrested 27-year-old Nurudeen Kazeem

- Kazeem is reportedly a notorious robber and killer in Lagos

- He was allegedly employed by one Wilfred Ehis to rob and kill delivery men

A 27-year-old well-trained killer identified as Nurudeen Kazeem also known as Onyabo, has been arrested by the Lagos state Rapid Respond Squad during a robbery.

Onyabo is reportedly well-known and feared by the residents of LASUIyana Iba axis as a member of the Eiye confraternity.

According to a report by police PRO, Malik Nasir, the notorious killer was reportedly hired by another man, a 30-year-old Wilfred Ehis, to help rob and killed unsuspecting delivery men.

Ehis was arrested by the Decoy Team of Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command sometimes in April, 2017.

READ ALSO: NNPC crashes diesel price nationwide by 42% - Spokesman

He disclosed to investigators that he contracted Onyabo because of his fearlessness during robbery operations.

According to Ehis: The guy that was helping me to rob delivery men was always jittery at operating in crowded places.

"Sometimes, he was too shy to rob the delivery men I lured to LASUIyana Iba side if there are people around. He was always giving excuses, so, I contacted Nurudeen after learning that he was fearless and ruthless. And, he never disappointed. He did his work to precision.

What Ehis did was to order expensive phones online posing as Barrister Deji. His delivery areas were always around LASUIyana Iba side where the sellers were dispossessed of expensive phones.

Three of the victims, who reported at RRS office after being robbed said they lost between N600,000:00 to N800,000:00 worth of phones and accessories to Ehis and Nurudeen partnership.

According to them, what they ordered were very expensive phones with their accessories. Barrister Deji ordered choice phones and accessories. The ones you dont have in your shop, you have to take on credit hoping that after sales, you pay back, one of the seller who recounted his experience at RRS Headquarters said.

They added that while they were trying to locate the delivery address via mobile phone calls to Ehis posing as Barrister Deji, two gun wielding guys would appear on okada, point guns at them, collect the orders, fire into the air and disappeared.

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According to Nurudeen: I have done this three times for Cali (Ehis). I took the phones to him in his hotels, where he stayed.

"The first operation, he gave me N60,000. The second, he gave me N50,000 and the third, N45,000. The fourth one was the one I shot the police officer. I never knew he is a police officer.

"I started killing when I was initiated into Eiye Confraternity. I was trained to kill by the cult."

Onyabo, while confessing to the police stated that he shot the officer twice in the leg to avoid arrest.

He added that he was trained to kill by cult members after his initiation into Eiye Confraternity.

He said: I have killed two people in the past. One was to complement my initiation into Eiye Confraternity.

Nurudeen, Ehis and one other criminal arrested by the Lagos state police.

"I was led to a beer parlour in LASU-Iyana Iba axis, where I was showed a man to kill. I shot the guy there and I escaped. I killed another guy after shooting at him, I also macheted the victim who was a member of an Aye Confraternity in LASU/Iyana Iba area."

According to Ehis, Nurudeen sneaked into Lagos through the creeks only whenever he has operations. His house is built on an island between the border of Lagos and Ogun state.

Nurudeen and some of the weapons found on him.

Arrested along with Nurudeen were: Yusuph Bello, 33, the gangs armourer from whom two guns, axe, hammer and machetes were recovered, and Sunday Hassan, 26, the gangs bike rider.

All the suspects have been transferred to the SARS Office in Ikeja for further investigation and prosecution.

Meanwhile, Notorious billionaire kidnapper Chukwudi Onuamadike aka Evans has on Sunday June 18, led police operatives to two houses (Dens) in Ejigbo and Igando areas in Lagos state, where he kept some of his victim for months.

Evans, as he is simply called, was reportedly arrested inside his palatial mansion in the estate by men of the Nigeria Police Force under the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team led by Assistant Commissioner Abba Kyari.

Watch video of Legit.ng's visit to the house of Evans the kidnapper:

Source: Legit.ng
India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) was designated to last only for six months but it has completed 1000 earth days in its orbit.

By India Today Web Desk: India's Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) completed 1000 earth days in its orbit which is beyond its designed mission life.

Indian Space Research Organisation's maiden interplanetary mission was designated to last only for six months but it outlived its lifespan. MOM was launched on November 5, 2013 by PSLV-25 and it entered the Martian orbit on September 24,2014.

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The mission's success received applause from across the world as it was able to enter the red planet's orbit in its first attempt and was cost-effective when compared to missions launched by NASA and the European Space Agency.

Also read: ISRO to launch record 104 satellites today. All you need to know

ISRO said that the orbiter had performed beyond its design mission life of six months. Thousand days correspond to 973.25 Mars Sols (Martian Solar day) and MOM completed 388 orbits.

"The MOM is credited with many laurels like cost-effectiveness, short period of realisation, economical mass-budget, miniaturisation of five heterogeneous science payloads", said ISRO .

Also read: ISRO mission countdown begins: Rocket as heavy as 200 jumbos to take GSAT-19 into space

Even after functioning for 1000 days, the satellite is in good health and has provided a data of over 715 images which will be analysed scientifically. Also, ISRO has launched MOM Announcement of Opportunity (AO) programmes for researchers to use the MOM data for research and development.

Meanwhile, India is also planning a new mission to Venus after 2020 and Mangalyaan 2.0's return to Mars.

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- A casual worker has reportedly killed his 26-year-old Chinese boss

- The incident happened at a drug producing firm at Tayo Laose Close, Akinola Cole Estate, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos state

- The suspect identified as 28-year-old Okechukwu Amos was alleged to have sneaked into her apartment while she was sleeping and strangled her to death by covering her nose with a cloth

A worker at Green World, a drug producing firm at Tayo Laose Close, Akinola Cole Estate, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos state has allegedly killed his Chinese boss, Alice Xu.

READ ALSO: Evans, the notorious kidnapper takes policemen to the isolated den he keeps his victims

According to Punch, the incident happened around 8pm on Friday at the firm, which the 26-year-old Chinese woman also used as a residence.

The report said the suspect, 28-year-old Okechukwu Amos, who was a casual worker under Alice Xu sneaked into her apartment while she was sleeping and strangled her to death by covering her nose with a cloth until she suffocated.

the incident happened around 8pm on Friday at the firm, which the 26-year-old Chinese woman also used as a residence.

Okechukwu had been heard to have complained that his boss, Alice Xu usually harassed him, and decided to deal with her that day.

Amos was also said to have ransacked the apartment and allegedly stole about N800,000 and $2,000, belonging to the dead Alice.

After the dreadful act, and in efforts to escape the estate, Okechukwu was said to have disguised as a mentally-derailed person.

Unfortunately for him however, he was discovered.

According to a security guard who was a witness to the arrest, Ikechukwu actions betrayed him: I was at the security post around 9pm that day when I saw a man half-naked. He walked towards the gate bare-footed. He was holding a pair of slippers and carrying a load wrapped with a shirt on his head.

I initially took the man for a mad person, but after a closer look, I discovered that he is Ikechukwu (Amos). I asked him what was wrong and why he was dressed like that. He said he was angry and that he was quitting his job at the the company. I asked if the person that brought him to the company was aware, he said no.

I volunteered to call the person, but he refused. I requested to know the content of the bag with him, he was reluctant.

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That was when I became suspicious and called a policeman, who was at the gate with me. He interrogated him and forced him to open the bag. The bag contained a lot of cash. He led the policeman to the company, where we found the woman dead.

Okechukwu in his statement, according to a police source, said that he had endured frequent harassment by the woman and as a result decided to punish her.

The source said: He was employed recently by the woman through somebody and he worked at the supply department. He alleged that the woman had been very insulting and disrespecting to him over a period of time.

He gained access into her apartment when she had slept and tied her up. He covered her mouth and nose and the woman died because she could not breathe properly. He said he only wanted to punish her and didnt mean to kill her. Sums of N800,000 and $2,000 belonging to the woman were recovered from him.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Olarinde Famous-Cole, confirmed the incident, saying: We have the suspect in our custody and he has made confessional statement. He has been transferred to the SCIID for further investigation.

Legit.ng had also reported that a Chinese man based in Ogun state is currently under fire after breaking the spinal cord of one of his workers with his Kung Fu kicks.

The Chinese man identified as Master Wan was reported to have kicked 27-year-old William Ekanem, a Bedmate Furniture company worker in Magboro, on his back for not allowing him to check the rice he bought on credit.

Legit.ng reported that Master Wan demanded to see the nylon bag of rice Ekanem bought from a foodstuff vendor within the premises but was challenged by the young man for not minding his business.

Watch as this sad tales of Ohuhu in this Legit.ng video:

Source: Legit.ng